Frank's Photography Blog

Jan

Birds, Birds & More Birds: Join Me in Florida This March 🐦

I’m excited to share a special photography experience I’ll be co-leading next spring—one that’s all about birds, behavior, and being fully immersed in the field.

Birds, Birds & More Birds Photography Retreat

📍 Florida
🗓 March 8–12, 2026

March in Florida is one of the most electrifying times of year for bird photography. It’s peak breeding and courtship season, when colonies erupt with color, movement, ritual displays, and new life. Feathers flare, mates dance, chicks hatch—and the opportunities for meaningful, dynamic images are everywhere.

I’ll be joined by fellow OM SYSTEM Ambassadors Steve Morello, Lisa Cuchara, and Tom Cuchara for this immersive retreat designed to inspire, challenge, and elevate your photography—regardless of where you are on your creative journey.

This experience blends:

Thoughtful fieldcraft
Creative vision and storytelling
Modern camera techniques and computational tools
And most importantly, time in nature with mentors who genuinely care about your growth

Whether you’re hoping to capture dramatic birds-in-flight, intimate moments between parents and chicks, or the subtle beauty of courtship behavior, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

What to expect:

🟣 8 carefully chosen shooting locations
🟣 2 hotels
🟣 4 experienced ambassadors
🟣 All skill levels welcome
🟣 Any camera system welcome

Like all OM SYSTEM Retreats, this is about more than settings—it’s about creativity, community, and learning to see more deeply.

👉 Learn more & register here:
https://www.omsystemretreats.com/register-here/p/birdsbirdsbirds2026

🎁 Newsletter Bonus:
Use code FRANK2026 to receive $50 off your registration.

If bird photography has ever been on your bucket list—or if you’re ready to take your wildlife work to the next level—I’d love to have you join us in Florida.

Warm regards,
Frank T. Smith
OM SYSTEM Ambassador
http://www.franksmithphotos.com

Sep

There’s a New Lens in Town: OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 50–200mm F2.8 IS PRO Review

By Frank T. Smith Closed

The much-anticipated OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 50–200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens has finally arrived, and I’m excited to share my first impressions. Over the past month, I’ve been testing this versatile telephoto zoom across a range of subjects—from delicate backyard macros to sweeping landscapes and on-the-go travel scenes.
In this hands-on review, I show real-world performance, share sample images, and walk you through the specs and features that make this lens a serious contender for wildlife, landscape, and travel photographers alike.

▶ Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/rE-iLLNJlNY

Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an OM System shooter or a micro four-thirds enthusiast, this lens delivers a blend of reach, speed, and optical performance that makes it a strong addition to any photographer’s kit.

Apr

OM System OM-3: The Compact Powerhouse for Creativity & Adventure!

By Frank T. Smith Closed

Categories: Photography and video
Tags: Frank T Smith, Frank T Smith Photography, franksmithphotos, franksmithphotos.com, Newsletter, Olympus, OM, OM Ambassador, OM Digital Solutions, OM System, OM-3, Photography

Video link: https://youtu.be/mBxDN6lWELc

For the past several months, I’ve been testing something special—the brand-new OM System OM-3! I’ll share my first impressions and why this camera is a game-changer for photographers and content creators.

From its retro-inspired design to its advanced computational photography features, the OM-3 packs the power of the OM-1 Mark II into a more compact, intuitive, and creative tool. In this video, I’ll break down:

📸 Who this camera is for—Professionals, serious amateurs, social media creators & travelers 🎨 New creative tools—Custom color & monochrome profiles, OM Cinema modes ⚡ Performance & durability—Full metal body, IP53 weather sealing, under 1 lb! 🛠️ Quick & easy controls—Front creative dial, Computational Photography Button

If you’re looking for a camera that enhances creativity while staying compact and durable, the OM-3 might be your perfect companion.

Subscribe for more OM System content, and let me know in the comments—what excites you most about the OM-3?

Video link: https://youtu.be/mBxDN6lWELc

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Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4df9nFd Web: https://www.franksmithphotos.com

Feb

Winter 2025 Newsletter

By Frank T. Smith Closed

Categories: Photography and video
Tags: 2025 Newsletter, Frank T Smith, Frank T Smith Photography, franksmithphotos, franksmithphotos.com, Newsletter, Olympus, OM, OM Ambassador, OM Digital Solutions, OM System, OM-1 Mark II, Photography

For those of you who don’t receive my newsletter please check it out and consider subscribing. Here is a link: https://bit.ly/410Xbob

Happy New Year!

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Web: https://www.franksmithphotos.com

Jan

Top Nine 2024

By Frank T. Smith Closed

Categories: Photography
Tags: Frank T Smith, Frank T Smith Photography, franksmithphotos, franksmithphotos.com, Olympus, OM, OM Ambassador, OM Digital Solutions, OM System, OM-1 Mark II, Photography

According to Instagram, these are my top nine images from the past year!

I’m incredibly grateful for the privilege of exploring the world through my lens, capturing moments of beauty and wonder along the way. As a proud North American Ambassador for OM System (formerly Olympus), I’m fortunate to work with such an innovative brand that empowers my creative vision.

A heartfelt thank-you to all of you who engage with my work—your support means the world to me and inspires me to keep creating. Here’s to another year of adventure and artistry in 2025!

Happy New Year!

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Web: https://www.franksmithphotos.com

Dec

Behind the Curtain Photography Workshop: Explore the Historic State Theatre

By Frank T. Smith Closed

Step behind the scenes of the iconic Easton State Theatre on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, with OM System Ambassador and local photographer Frank T. Smith. This exclusive workshop offers unparalleled access to the theatre’s stunning architecture, intricate details, and rarely seen artifacts, making it a photographer’s dream. Video link: https://youtu.be/0qNt6Qc8kts

The day kicks off at 9 AM with a presentation by Frank, who will provide expert guidance and tips for capturing the theatre’s unique features. At 9:45 AM, the hands-on photography session begins, allowing participants to explore and photograph the theatre’s hidden treasures. Each attendee will also receive a voucher for two tickets to select State Theatre performances. Space is limited to just 24 participants—secure your spot today!

Register online at LINK , or by visiting the State Theatre Box Office (453 Northampton Street, Easton), or by calling 610-252-3132.

Connect with me:

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Web: https://www.franksmithphotos.com

Nov

Unlocking New Perspectives: Landscape Photography with the OM System 150-600mm Lens

By Frank T. Smith Closed

Categories: Photography
Tags: Birds, camera, Frank T Smith Photography, nature, OM Ambassador, OM System, OMAmbassador, OMSystem, Photography

Join me as I explore the stunning landscapes of eastern Pennsylvania, armed with the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm F5.0-6.3 IS lens. In this video, I dive into the benefits of using a super telephoto lens for landscape photography, showcasing unique segments and vignettes that reveal a whole new approach to capturing nature. From sweeping views to intimate details, discover how this versatile lens has transformed my creative process. Don’t miss out on tips for setting up your shots and insights on why this lens is now a must-have in my kit.

Here is the video link:https://youtu.be/paD1elcf6wg

@OM System OM-1 MkII

M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm F5.0-6.3 IS

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#OMSystem #DefyTheMoment #travelphotography #Travel #travelphotographer #landscapephotography #mzuiko #om1mkii #franksmithphotos #olympusvisionary #omambassador #franktsmith #franktaylorsmith #franksmithphotography #VisitPA #LehighParkway #DelawareWaterGap #PoconoTourism #Waterfalls #DelawareWaterGapNP #LeaserLake #BestOfKeystoneState #PoconoMtns #PoconoMountains #DicoverNEPA #Waterfall #HighResPhotography #Autumn #LiveND

Oct

Online Photography Summit

By Frank T. Smith 2 Comments

Categories: Photography
Tags: Frank T Smith Photography, Frank T. Smith, Landscape, Landscape Photography, landscapephotography, OM Ambassador, OM System, OM-1 Mark II, PhotoTips, Travel, Travel Photographer, Travel Photography

Join Me at an Online Photography Summit!

I’m thrilled to be part of this special event celebrating OM System’s 3-year anniversary! 📸✨ Happening on October 26, 2024, from 11:00 am to 6:40 pm (ET), this online summit will feature six OM Ambassadors sharing their passion and expertise in photography.⠀ ⠀

I’ll be presenting “Travel Photography Near and Far”, where I’ll dive into tips and techniques for capturing stunning travel images, no matter the destination. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, there will be valuable insights for everyone!⠀ ⠀

Spots are limited – don’t miss out!⠀ Click here to learn more and sign up! https://bit.ly/404orlF ⠀ ⠀

Get ready to be inspired, learn new skills, and connect with a community that loves photography as much as you do. Can’t wait to see you there!⠀ ⠀

#OMSystem #SeeTheUnseen #travelphotography #Travel #travelphotographer #landscapephotography #mzuiko #om1MkII #franksmithphotos #omambassador #franktsmith #franktaylorsmith #franksmithphotography #PhotographySummit #TravelPhotography #OMAmbassadors #PhotoTips #OnlineEvent #LearnPhotography

Oct

Mastering Light at Dingmans Falls: 4 Camera Techniques for Stunning Photos

By Frank T. Smith Closed

In this video, I explore four powerful techniques to overcome challenging light conditions at Dingmans Falls in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Using my OM System OM-1 Mark II, I test each approach to handle dynamic light shifts and bring out the stunning beauty of the falls. First, I demonstrate how the camera’s 14-bit High Resolution mode enhances dynamic range. Next, I look at automated exposure bracketing for HDR, followed by a look at the camera’s innovative internal Live Graduated Neutral Density feature. Finally, I mention using external filters, though I opted to travel lighter for this shoot. Watch to see how each method compares and how they can help you capture breathtaking scenes in difficult lighting conditions.

Watch this video to enjoy the beauty of Dingmans Falls and its mesmerizing water features! Here is the video link: https://youtu.be/U8YhlGN42y8

#OMSystem OM-1 MkII

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Web: https://www.franksmithphotos.com

#OMSystem #DefyTheMoment #travelphotography #Travel #travelphotographer #landscapephotography #mzuiko #om1mkii #franksmithphotos #olympusvisionary #omambassador #franktsmith #franktaylorsmith #franksmithphotography #VisitPA #DingmansFalls #DelawareWaterGap #PoconoTourism #Waterfalls #DelawareWaterGapNP #DingmansFerryPA #BestOfKeystoneState #PoconoMtns #PoconoMountains #DicoverNEPA #Waterfall #HighResPhotography #Autumn #LiveGND

Aug

Photographing Great Blue Herons: Tips and Camera Settings

By Frank T. Smith Closed

Link: https://youtu.be/PMCqPLLcCgo

Join me on a journey through the scenic Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, as I capture the stunning Great Blue Heron with the OM System OM-1 Mark II camera. In this video, I’ll share my fascination with these majestic birds and provide insights into their important role in our ecosystem. I’ll also discuss the benefits of using the OM-1 Mark II and M.Zuiko lenses, showcasing how they helped me capture breathtaking images and videos of the herons. For those interested in wildlife photography, I’ll include suggested camera settings for photographing birds, ensuring you can get the most out of your equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a nature enthusiast, this video offers a glimpse into the beauty of these incredible creatures and tips to enhance your photography skills. Stick around until the end to see a heron consume a fish larger than I would have imaged. Don’t miss out—subscribe to my channel for more landscape, nature and wildlife photography adventures!

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Web: https://www.franksmithphotos.com