Julie Powell

Melbourne

Writer, Educator and creative photographer, helping photographers of all levels create their own amazing images. Inspiring women to be their true selves

Featured in: Favicon

flipboard.com Favicon

bookriot.com Favicon

newsbreak.com Favicon

signature-reads.com Favicon

photofocus.com

Articles

Neewer CA021 Rotatable Tripod Collar: Spec report and hands-on review

1 week ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

For photographers and videographers who regularly shoot with telephoto or macro lenses, a lens tripod collar can make a world of difference in stability, balance, and rotation control. The Neewer CA021 is one such accessory—a rotatable tripod mount ring that offers a budget-friendly alternative to OEM collars. In my YouTube video, I demonstrate how the CA021 performs in practical use. Below is a full spec breakdown and my personal experience using it both in the studio and on location.
My first look at infrared photography through a whole new lens (Literally!)

1 week ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

Infrared photography has always fascinated me — those dreamy white trees, surreal landscapes, and that eerie-yet-beautiful “otherworldly” vibe. It’s like peeking into a parallel universe. I’ve admired it for ages, but for some reason, I’d never really dived into it myself… until now. So, I finally caved and bought a Hoya 720nm IR filter, and let me tell you, it’s been a weird and wonderful ride! This is definitely not your typical “point and shoot” photography.
Quick review: Neewer CA021 Lens Adaptor

1 week ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

Looking for a reliable lens collar for your Sony full-frame camera? In this video, I review the Neewer CA021 Rotatable Lens Adapter, designed for Sony a7R III and similar models. I’ll show you how to install it, how it works with a tripod mount, and why this budget-friendly Neewer lens collar is a great addition to your photography gear. Whether you’re into landscape, portrait or macro photography, a good lens mount can improve your stability and composition.
Introducing the Road Runner Collection from PolarPro

2 weeks ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

Ultralight. Ultrafast. Built for creators on the move. Say hello to the brand new RoadRunner Collection by PolarPro — a sleek, lightweight line of camera bags designed with fast-paced, on-the-go creators in mind. Whether you’re shooting stills or video, in the studio or out in the wild, these bags are built to keep up with your hustle — and your gear.
Still-life in the studio with the Godox iM22 Flash

3 weeks ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

Looking for a compact, budget-friendly flash for your photography? In this video, I test out the Godox iM22 Mini Flash, a pocket flash perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. I demonstrate how it works both indoors and outdoors, adjusting settings for different lighting conditions. If flashes intimidate you, this one is super easy to use—just simple up-and-down power adjustments with no stress! Watch as I capture stunning shots in my studio and garden using the iM22.
Using different in-camera styles for portraits

3 weeks ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

Capturing stunning portraits isn’t just about the right lens or lighting—it’s also about how you use your camera’s built-in features to enhance the final image. Many modern cameras come equipped with different in-camera styles or picture profiles that can drastically change the look and feel of your portraits before you even start editing. Understanding how to leverage these settings can help you achieve a variety of creative effects straight out of the camera.
Mastering contrast in portrait photography

4 weeks ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

Contrast is one of the most powerful tools in photography. It’s what gives an image depth, dimension, and impact. When used well, contrast can make a portrait leap off the screen or print, drawing the viewer’s eye exactly where you want it to go. But when misused or overlooked, an image can feel flat, lifeless, or just plain uninteresting. So, how do you master contrast in portrait photography? Let’s break it down.
Godox iM22 iFlash: Power, portability and functionality

1 month ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

I recently had the opportunity to use the Godox iM22 mini flash, and I was pleasantly surprised by its quality, versatility, and ease of use. This compact flash unit has proven to be a valuable addition to my photography gear, offering reliable performance in a small package. Let’s take a look. Note: Godox sent the iM22 for review and to keep. However, this review is completely independent. All thoughts about this product are our own.
What is a gobo and how is it used?

1 month ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

In the world of photography and lighting, there are endless ways to shape, control, and manipulate light to create stunning and dramatic images. One of the most underrated yet powerful tools in a photographer’s arsenal is the humble gobo. If you’ve never used one before, you’re in for a treat!So, what exactly is a gobo, and how can it be used to elevate your photography? Let’s take a look.
Lens review: Viltrox AF 25mm f/1.7 (Z-mount)

1 month ago | photofocus.com | Julie Powell

I recently had the chance to put the Viltrox 25mm f/1.7 Autofocus Air lens through its paces. While it has some great qualities, it also left me feeling a little underwhelmed in certain scenarios. On paper, this lens seems like a fantastic option – a fast f/1.7 aperture, lightweight build, and an affordable price point. But, as always, the real test comes in how it performs in the field.