An exposed photographic plate or a segment of exposed film inside a dark camera body are analog equivalents of today’s Raw file. Before digital technology made it possible to capture visual images electronically, a photograph was visible only after it had been processed in a darkroom with chemicals. Now the processing is handled either in camera or by Raw rendering software. The word “Raw” is not an acronym; it’s a simple description for a file that contains pure data, invisible to the human eye.

The new Nikon COOLPIX S810c provides users with the power to capture high quality images in low-light or from a distance, delivering the results that would otherwise be a challenge to capture with a smartphone. The COOLPIX S810c features a 16.0-megapixel, backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor for excellent low-light ability, and a 12x optical zoom NIKKOR lens (with24x Dynamic Fine Zoom) to get the sharp shots from up close or far away. Further bolstering the low-light capability of the S810c, the camera has an ISO range up to 3200, as well as Lens-Shift Vibration Reduction (VR) to help banish blurry photos, even while shooting handheld. To capture those special moments, the camera also has a fast continuous shooting mode.

DxO Optics Pro is a Raw converter that keeps pace with the ever-growing, ever-changing world of digital photography. The newest version—DxO Optics Pro 9 (for Mac or Windows)—focuses on one of digital imaging’s most troubling artifacts: digital noise. Whether you’re shooting at high ISOs or bringing out blocked shadow detail in a seriously underexposed image or an HDR photo, digital noise (luminance and chrominance) can rear its ugly head. And now we can finally deliver a knockout punch to this culprit. But before you get in the ring, there are a few things you should know.

Architectural photography normally involves shooting exteriors and interiors, ranging from residential to corporate and industrial. Hospitality photography moves in a different direction. John Bellenis explains: “I would define hospitality photography as shooting hotels, resorts, cruise lines, spas, and destinations. It’s a niche market that encompasses a range of photographic disciplines: architectural exteriors, interiors, lifestyle, food, and travel. I enjoy it because it keeps things fresh and the demands are varied photographically.