We’d all rather be out shooting photos than sitting behind a computer processing our work, and one great way to finish up edits in a hurry is to use simple keyboard shortcuts to streamline the workflow. This tutorial from one of our favorite image-editing instructors, provides his favorite keyboard shortcuts when masking is the task of the day.

Anthony Morganti is an experienced photo educator and retouching specialist based in Buffalo, New York. The use of masks is perhaps the best way even out the tones in complicated outdoor scenes that include a variety of elements within areas of varying brightness and colors. It can be a time-consuming task. So anything that can hasten the process, like the six keyboard shortcuts you’ll learn today, is very welcome news.

Morganti demonstrates his tricks while editing a seaside photo with a sandy beach in the left portion of the frame, and the blue waters of the ocean on the right. As you can see, one area of the sand is lighter than surrounding areas, and Morganti says this: “what I often like to do when I’m presented with something like this is to make the lighter part even lighter still.” Similarly he often adjusts an image so dark areas are a bit darker.”

Here Morganti does this with the goal of adding both tonal variance and eye appeal to the shot. This involves dodging and burning with a Brush Mask. Instead of opening the Mask panel and choosing the Brush option, here’s a quick keyboard shortcut that will save you some time: Just hit the letter “k” on the keyboard and you’re automatically there in an instant.

While mask selections typically appear in red, what if that area of the scene is red a well, making the masks boundaries difficult to discern? In this instance hold down the Shift key while tapping the letter “o” and you’ll quickly be able to cycle through a variety of other colors for defining the mask.

Morganti also wants to further darken the nearby darker tones which requires a second Brush Mask. The typical approach would involve going to the top of the screen, selecting Create New Mask, and choosing Brush from the dropdown menu. The better way is to hit the “n” key and you’ll get a second blank mask (not a duplicate of the first).

This is just a taste of the time-saving keyboard shortcuts you’ll learn, and you may even want to create a cheat sheet for future reference. There’s also much more to learn by paying a visit to Morganti’s instructional YouTube channel.

And be sure to check out another helpful tutorial we posted recently, explaining how to create attention-grabbing  autumn photos with several unique Lightroom editing effects.

If you’re considering making the switch from a crop-sensor camera to full-frame model we urge you carefully consider the key points of today’s tutorial before pulling the trigger—especially if you’re motivated by achieving images with less noise while shooting under low light with high ISO settings. That’s because despite conventional wisdom the determining factors are more involved than you think.

Instructor Simon d’Entremont is a professional nature and wildlife photographer based in Eastern Canada who regularly posts helpful tutorials sharing the secrets to his success. In this 13-minute video he attempts to navigate and simplify this complicated issue. Be sure to watch until the end because Simon presents some great advice to getting the cleanest images possible in low light with whatever camera you own—regardless of sensor size.

The main question Simon explores is this: “Do larger sensors have less noise and better image quality when used in low light? His view of the truth may surprise you, and he is therefore bracing for some blowback, so take a close look and see what you think. He begins with a quick explanation of what causes the ugly artifacts known as noise, and the effect they have on photos in difference situations.

In basic terms it works like this: the lower the amount of light in a scene he noisier an image will be because of a poor signal-to-noise ratio, i.e. “not enough photons of good light to overwhelm noise from the camera’s electronic systems and the random nature of light.”

Simon isn’t referring to resolution when the explains the ramifications of sensor size with regard to noise. Rather he’s describing the actual physical dimensions of the sensors compared. In this regard a typical APS-C crop sensor measures around 14×16 mm, while the full-frame sensor is 36x24mm—just like a single frame of 35mm film that is almost four time the size of a micro-four thirds sensor with its dimensions of 7x13mm.

Before explaining how the foregoing affects noise, Simon raises another important consideration that has to do with the term “crop factor” as pertains to whatever lens you employ. Thus, a micro four thirds sensor with it’s 2X crop factor captures a significantly smaller image circle than the same lens on an APS-C or full-frame sensor—effectively giving you more reach on the long end of a zoom, and a less expansive view on the short end.

Armed with this information it’s easy to understand how sensors of various sizes affect the noise in an image, a comparison that begins at the 6:35 point in the video. Once you’re done watching you’ll be able to make an informed decison as to whether “stepping up” to full-frame makes sense for you.

Simon’s popular YouTube channel is a great source of important information and techniques, so be sure to pay a visit when you have time.

We also suggest watching a tutorial we posted earlier from another accomplished pro, explaining six easy Lightroom special effects that will take your outdoor photographs to the next level.

3 Legged Thing just introduced their 2023 lineup of monopods, and Shutterbug had a chance to evaluate the model of our choice several weeks in advance. Here’s why the 3 Legged Thing “Taylor 2.0” works for us.

If you doubt for a moment that you need a monopod, read this story Shutterbug published last year: Why You Need A Monopod. If you’re still unconvinced after that, think back to that time you were stuck in the back of a crowd and wished you had a way to raise your camera above the heads of the 6-foot, 9-inch people in front of you. That’s only one of the many reasons you need a monopod. Of course, the main reason is to get sharper photos.

Overview
Advocates of monopods and tripods that we are, we were pleased when 3 Legged Thing offered us an early opportunity to preview and evaluate the model of our choice from their new lineup prior to introduction. We chose “Taylor 2.0,” the very affordable, travel-friendly magnesium alloy monopod in the entry-level range that was named in honor of the late Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins. That’s not the reason why, of coruse.

The other new models are in the premium range and feature carbon fiber construction.

“Alana” is a travel-friendly 5-section unit that stretches to 62.3 inches, and “Lance” is a super-tall 4-section monopod that reaches over 79 inches fully extended. Alana was named after skateboarder Alana Smith, the youngest person to ever earn an X Games medal. Lance was named for former Bones Brigade skateboarder Lance Mountain.

Specifications Comparison Matrix

All three models are available alone or in a kit with the 3-legged Docz foot stabilizer that can double as a table top tripod. Also, all three are offered in 3LT’s relatively new, rich matte-black Darkness coloration; Taylor 2.0 also comes in Metallic Blue, and Alana in Metallic Slate Gray. Yes, Lance, this means you are in Darkness only.

We typically do not put product model names in quotation marks, but 3LT is not a typical organization. They describe themselves this way: “Headquartered in a converted chicken shed (The Chicken Shed) on Kinsbourne Farm, in Stagsden, Bedfordshire, 3 Legged Thing is a small, British company of passionate people, creating and innovating camera support systems for photographers and videographers, and has a sibling brand, Toxic, that creates innovative bags for all people.”

3LT’s product-naming scheme is so refreshingly creative and unique, we put the names in quotes up to this point to head off potential confusion among the unfamiliar. Check 3LT’s website if you’re still slightly puzzled.

Taylor 2.0 Key Features
Travel Ready: Just 17.4 inches (44.1cm) folded, fits inside carry-on luggage
Light Weight: Weighs under 1.5 pounds (677g)
Tall: 62.2 inches (1.58m) or 64.2 inches (1.63m) with optional Docz
Durable & Sturdy: Supports nearly 50X its weight, 66 pounds (30kg)
Versatile: Compatible with 3LT’s Docz 3-legged foot stabilizer
Flexible Usage: Can be used as microphone or camera boom
Comfortable: Extra-large handle is triangle-etched for a firm grip
Surefooted: Accepts several foot options (spikes, etc.)
Includes: Rotating wrist strap
Doubly Affordable: Just $89.99 alone or $139.99 with the $59.99 Docz

In the Field
Taylor 2.0 is light and easy to carry—that’s very important to everyone—but still sturdy enough to use with confidence, and that’s even more important. It supports up to 66 pounds (30kg) which is about the weight of an average nine-year-old male child in the US if I’m reading the CDC’s charts correctly. Yet Taylor 2.0 weighs less than 1.5 pounds.

I lashed it to the bottom of my WotanCraft Pilot 7 shoulder bag and it was not cumbersome at all. Unlike when I carry a travel tripod with the legs extended to shooting height, I did not have to worry about bludgeoning someone when I negotiated human traffic at a busy local wildlife center.

The grip on Taylor 2.0 is extra long and nicely knurled, so it’s easy to hang onto. Combined with the wide wrist strap, it was a snap to maintain control while using and when transporting.

I found it easy to loosen the large twist locks and extend Taylor 2.0 into position, and equally easy to lock everything tight and secure. There is nothing worse than to have one section come loose and slip down suddenly—and that didn’t happen to me even once.

The rubber foot included with Taylor 2.0 is suitable for most surfaces, including hardwood floors, carpets and miscellaneous outdoor areas, but as you’ll read momentarily, there are other options for special circumstances.

Docz is available separately or in a kit with any of the three new monopods. It has three collapsible legs and provides sturdy, 3-point stabilization when attached to the bottom of Taylor 2.0. Mainly I used Docz to add more rigidity and to help me maintain proper vertical orientation. Docz makes it easier to keep the camera in the same space between shots. Although you obviously have to be careful and use common sense, it’s possible to balance a lightweight camera on the Taylor 2.0 + Docz combo and let go. I’m not recommending that, please understand; I’m simply pointing out its stability.

I didn’t use Docz as often as I thought I might because it adds more than a pound of additional weight to the setup. That said, there were several times when I was glad I’d brought Docz along in my gadget bag. Docz can also be used as a table top or ground-level tripod.

In addition to the Docz 3-legged foot stabilizer, there are several other foot options. 3LT offers Heelz (spikes) which are very useful when working on turf or bare ground, plus Stilettoz (long spikes), Clawz (ice grips) and Vanz (dual ball/spikes). Simply unscrew the included rubber foot and replace it with the accessory. The Clawz proved to be a blessing following the recent record rainfall in my area. Note that the optional feet are sold only in sets of three—which is no burden if you also own a 3LT tripod or compatible brand that has a standard 1/4-20 or 3/8-16 screw at the leg bottom.

Worth mentioning, Taylor 2.0 has a 3/8-16 screw at the top to accommodate a ball head or other camera holder. It features a clever spring-loaded bushing that slips down out of the way if you need to attach a head accessory that uses the smaller 1/4-20 fitting, or directly onto the camera or lens.

Conclusion
I need a monopod and you do too. Taylor 2.0 offers an overabundance of features at a pecuniary-favorable price. If you shoot any video, buy the kit which includes the Docz foot stabilizer. 3 Legged Thing has been around for a long time and has earned a leadership position through high quality, innovative design and sensible prices.

If every ounce of weight is critical to you, opt for carbon fiber Alana. You’ll save about 11 ounces (.03kg) but the cost is $50 (67%) higher. For my needs (and budget) Taylor 2.0 is the most rational choice. Or the buy the Taylor 2.0 kit that includes the Docz foot stabilizer and still costs less than a naked Alana.

Lance is the same price as Alana and extends to a whopping 79.52 inches. Lance features four leg sections and is made of carbon fiber. When connected to Docz it reaches 6.8 feet (81.5 inches, 2.07 meters). I can’t imagine needing that much stretch unless I planned to also use it to coax wayward felines down from treetops.

Price & Availability
Taylor 2.0 and his kin can be purchased directly from 3 Legged Thing or from a local 3LT dealer. To find an authorized dealer near you, click here. Price for Taylor 2.0 is $89.99 alone or $139.99 for the kit which includes the Docz 3-legged stabilizer (Docz normally costs $59.99 by itself). Alana and Lance can be purchased alone or as a kit as well. Either monopod alone costs $149.99, and the kits will run you $199.99, representing a $10 savings.

Become a Member of the Shutterbug Community
Register for a free account. Sign up for our newsletter. Spend five minutes (or less) uploading your best shots once every week or so. Potentially become a Shutterbug Photo of the Day winner. Enjoy viewing the fantastic work being done by thousands of photographers all over the world—and add your images to the enduring collection.

—Jon Sienkiewicz

Autumn colors are reaching their peak here in Colorado, making it one of the best times of year for landscape photography. I just spent a weekend in the mountains photographing cottonwoods, scrub oaks, and especially aspen trees showing off their deep reds and brilliant yellows. If you also want to photograph the fall colors, here are the things I recommend focusing on!