Tag: Photography Tips

Golfer mid swing on a palm tree lined course photographed with Nikon Zfc.

Nikon Zfc for Golf Photography; A Real Photographer’s Take on a Beginner Camera

April 26, 2026 / / 0 Comments

There’s a difference between taking a photo and making one – Nikon Zfc for candid fun golf photography.

Lately, I’ve been making a lot of golf content. Videos, clips, moments that live fast and keep moving. That’s how a lot of people have come to know me now. But photography is still the foundation. Always has been.

A few years ago I bought the Nikon Zfc thinking it would be something light to keep in my golf bag, maybe even my pocket. Something easy. Something I wouldn’t have to think about too much.

But that’s not what happened.

candid golf cart moment during a casual round on the course

I ended up using my iPhone 17 Pro Max often to take a few snaps because it has a great camera; but it’s just not the same. What I was really searching for was something small enough to live in my pocket without thinking about it. Looking back, I think the impulse came from the Nikon Zfc reminding me of my Nikon FE2 film camera. That classic feel, the dials, the experience.

group of women walking the fairway during a golf lifestyle session
golf course scene with palm trees captured in natural light black and white in Miami.

The only real time I used it before this was a few years ago in San Diego. I took it on a photo walk during a golf trip. Truth is, I was so locked into the trip, the weather, and the golf that I wasn’t focused on shooting at all. The camera was just with me because I’m addicted to photography. It’s always going to be around me… even when I’m not fully using it.

After that, it pretty much sat.

Until recently.

I wanted to document a girls golf day with some of my friends while photog-caddying. I told myself, you know what, let me take this camera that’s been collecting dust out. I don’t need to bring my workhorse.

And that’s when it clicked.

golfer hitting out of a bunker captured with Nikon Zfc

It made me pay attention again. Made me want to actually dial things in. Light, timing, composition. The small things that remind you why you started in the first place.

And that’s when I realized something.

This isn’t my best camera. Not even close.

candid golf cart moment during a casual round on the course

For client work (my portfolio here), I’m still shooting with my Nikon D800 and D850. Those cameras have carried me through years of professional photography and still deliver every time I need them to. My local studio rental even has a Nikon Z9 and has offered it to me more times than I can count… but I stick with my tools because they get the job done for me.

At the same time, playing around with this smaller mirrorless camera made me want to finally take one of the big boy mirrorless cameras out and really work with it the right way.

Another thing that surprised me… I wasn’t impressed in the past when looking at the images on the Zfc LCD screen or even through the viewfinder. It didn’t hit me.

But once I loaded the files into the computer…

Completely different story.

Major difference.

That’s when the camera started to make sense to me.

But photography has never really been about that.

It’s about how present you are when you press the shutter.

It’s about whether you’re just documenting something… or actually creating something.

Is the Nikon Zfc a Good Camera for Golf Photography?

golfer making up a putt on the green during a lifestyle shoot.

If you’re someone looking for a camera for golf, a beginner camera, or just wondering what camera to buy to start taking better photos, the Nikon Zfc is a solid place to start.

It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and doesn’t get in the way of the moment. That matters when you’re out on the course.

It’s not built for high-speed sports or long lens action work, but for:

  • golf lifestyle photography
  • candid moments
  • everyday shooting

…it does exactly what it needs to do.

More importantly, it makes you want to shoot.

Making Photos While Golfing

lifestyle photography from a golf day captured with Nikon Zfc
natural light golf course scenery photographed during a casual session

A lot of people wonder if they should even be taking photos while golfing.

You can.

You just can’t force it.

You have to let the moments come to you.

That’s what this was.

These photos were made with people I see every week. Out on the course. No pressure. No expectations. Just real moments. Golf photography, candid lifestyle photography, and being present.

woman golfer mid swing during a relaxed lifestyle photography session hitting a shot on to a par 3 golf green over water.f

And somehow, that made them better.

Real.

Unforced.

The kind of photographs that remind you that you still love this.

Photography, Work, and Freedom

At this level, photography can get exhausting.

When you’ve been doing it as long as I have, when you understand the value of your work, when you’ve had to navigate budgets that don’t always reflect that value, it changes how you move.

That’s part of the reason I still caddie.

It gives me the freedom to not rely on photography for everything, and to choose the work I actually want to create.

That freedom matters more than any piece of gear.

Photography Is Still What I Do

So while a lot of you may know me through golf, or see me more as an Instagram golfer these days…

Photography is still what I do.

This is just me bringing it back into the moments I’m already living.

Note: If you’re a brand, course, or creative looking to bring real moments like this to life, you can reach me through my contact page…actually just message me on my IG: @DwayneTucker

Made, Not Taken

Below, and all photographs in this article is from this Nikon Zfc golf and lifestyle photography session.

Take your time with them.

candid moment between shots on the golf course of royal palm trees during a round in Miami Beach.
shot of fairway flowers from a golf hitting fairway woods on golf lifestyle session using Nikon Zfc
candid golf chipping chip shot moment captured with Nikon Zfc during a casual round
Golf course scene in soft day light during a lifestyle session.
golfer finishing a putt captured with Nikon Zfc

Your Turn

Which image stood out to you the most?

Drop a comment below and let me know.

If you’ve got any questions about:

  • the Nikon Zfc
  • cameras for beginners
  • what camera to buy
  • golf photography
  • or how I approach making photos while golfing

Ask me here and I’ll answer you directly.

Final Thought

This set was photographed using the Nikon Zfc during a casual golf photography and lifestyle session.

A reminder that the best camera isn’t always the most expensive one.

It’s the one that makes you want to shoot.

Stay Tuned,

Tucker

Reviving Photography Passion with PhLow

June 21, 2024 / / 0 Comments

I’ve always loved being a photographer. But somewhere between turning professional and needing to make a living from it, the joy of photography started feeling exhausting.

From my perspective, I find myself constantly chasing deals instead of having clients come to me. It’s ironic how clients often praise my work after I’ve delivered, when all along I’ve been quietly confident in its quality.

Navigating this side of the photography world can be draining. However, I’m slowly figuring out how to streamline my workflow with my team, allowing me to focus more on shooting and less on the hustle.

Interestingly, I’ve realized I don’t always enjoy lugging around my bulky camera just for leisurely shots anymore. My initial love for photography began with disposable cameras and pocket point-and-shoots—capturing moments effortlessly with friends was what made it so enjoyable.

Exploring New Tools: The PhLow App

During a trip to Aspen in February, I stumbled upon some stunning photos edited with the PhLow app. Recognizing its potential, I reached out to them. I’m genuinely enthusiastic about this app—I wish they’d sponsor me considering how often I recommend it!

PhLow combines the power of Photoshop with the nostalgic charm of a built-in film camera, offering creative editing tools that fit right in your pocket. If I had the means, I’d buy them out in a heartbeat. It’s that good.

Capturing Lulu’s Essence

I’ve always wanted to photograph Lulu. She’s an incredible golfer who attended the University of Miami. Recognizing her potential appeal to the golf audience, I knew capturing her essence would be captivating—she’s both beautiful and a pro at her sport.

Approaching someone like Lulu in Miami, especially for a guy like me in his mid-thirties, can be daunting. I’ve been in the photography game long before the social media hype, back when connections were made face-to-face rather than through Instagram.

Months ago, at a golf event, I finally had the chance to introduce myself in person. What struck me most was Lulu’s down-to-earth nature. In Miami, many beautiful women can come off as aloof due to the city’s culture, but Lulu was refreshingly genuine.

Seizing the Moment with PhLow

We connected on social media, although I soon learned she doesn’t check her Instagram messages often. Nevertheless, that initial meeting laid the groundwork.

Recently, during an unplanned visit to the golf range, I decided to bring along my disposable camera, just in case. As luck would have it, I ended up needing it, but didn’t have it. Fortunately, I had the PhLow app on my phone, a tool I’ll explain shortly.

While winding down after my round, I noticed Lulu wearing her signature bucket hat during a lesson. Intrigued, I approached her and we caught up briefly. Later, she introduced me to two top Brazilian tennis players also practicing at the range, creating an impromptu photo opportunity.

Using the PhLow app on my trusty iPhone 14 Pro Max, I was amazed by its ability to turn casual shots into professional-quality images. As phone cameras advance alongside mirrorless technology, apps like PhLow represent the future of creative photography.

Despite my reluctance to upgrade my phone just for the camera, my current setup works well with PhLow, offering versatile cropping options perfect for both Instagram stories and feeds.

Showcasing the Results

Among the many shots I took that day, I’ve selected my favorites to share, starting with the introductory image.

While I’m not yet sponsored to endorse PhLow, I highly recommend downloading it to explore its creative potential.

Until next time,

Signing out,

Dwayne Tucker from DwayneTucker.com

Behind the Lens: Capturing the Essence of Sports Apparel Lifestyle

June 12, 2024 / / 2 Comments

The Journey Begins

In 2021, a phone call from Perry Ellis’s headquarters in Miami, Florida, marked a pivotal moment in my photography journey. While this unexpected invitation may have seemed like a stroke of luck, it was the culmination of years of relentless dedication and the transformative power of personal projects.

Unexpected Opportunities

But let’s rewind a bit. In 2019, after a successful campaign with Birds Of Condor, I found myself at the PGA trade show in Orlando. Little did I know, my Instagram caught the attention of a representative from Callaway Golf. This chance connection led to an unexpected collaboration, as they provided me with golf clubs to create captivating content. What began as a simple partnership soon revealed a hidden opportunity – Callaway Golf’s apparel line, licensed under Perry Ellis.

Evolution of Craft

As an independent photographer, I’ve spent over two decades honing my craft, constantly learning and evolving. This shoot was no exception, teaching me valuable lessons that continue to shape my approach today.

Navigating the Shoot

At the time of the Perry Ellis shoot, I wasn’t tethering into the computer, and much has changed in my workflow since then. However, the essence of my photography has always transcended the gear or technicalities; it’s about capturing the right energy and framing compositions that resonate.

Overcoming Challenges

I have a good relationship with Aperture, a photography rental company in Miami, for additional gear when needed. Reflecting on this now, I realize how far I’ve come since then, gradually acquiring the equipment I once rented for productions. Perhaps sponsorship for these essentials is on the horizon—a thought I’m throwing into the universe.

Collaborative Effort

On the day of the shoot, I arrived to find a well-organized production with a planned creative brief and a crew executing it meticulously. Navigating the shared models between sets posed a unique challenge. I had to ensure I captured the shots I needed, knowing I wouldn’t be involved in the post-production process.

Moments of Connection

Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of the shoot, there were moments of connection and collaboration that made it all worthwhile. I clicked with several individuals on set, including agency-represented models who brought professionalism and expertise to the shoot. With support from stylists, makeup artists, and assistants, the collaborative environment fostered creativity.

Reflections and Future Plans

Despite the challenges, I embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly, armed with a blend of experience and an unyielding passion for candid photography. Each moment was an opportunity to capture magic, to tell a story through images that would resonate with audiences.

Sharing the Journey

Now, as I reflect on this experience, I’m able to share these images as the project’s license extends for two years. Behind the scenes, I’m updating my portfolio, reviving my blog with this entry, and showcasing the sports apparel portfolio I’ve cultivated over the years, remaining independent for now.

Looking Ahead

Stay tuned for another blog post where I’ll share more images from this shoot, highlighting what I look for when shooting sports apparel or any lifestyle images meant to help my clients sell products. I’ll delve into the intricacies of composition, lighting, and storytelling that elevate these images from mere photographs to compelling marketing assets.

Acknowledgments

A special thank you goes to one of my new retouchers, Aneri, whose skill brings my vision to life in post-production. Tony for being my first assistant, and everybody mentioned on my Instagram post that made the day possible.

Conclusion

As I continue on this journey, I’m excited to share more insights into shooting lifestyle images for clients and the nuances of creating images that not only tell a story but also sell clothing. Thank you for joining me on this adventure.

Until next time,

Signing out,

Dwayne Tucker from DwayneTucker.com

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