I’ve been enjoying a series called Contact, definitely worth checking out. What is the story behind the most famous iconic photos from around the world? A unique and fascinating journey into the contact sheets of the world renowned photographers from Magnum, the legendary agency founded in 1947. Episodes include: 1. Thomas Hoepker – Muhammad Ali 2. David Turn – The Beatles 3. Stuart Franklin – Tiananmen Square 4. Peter Marlow – Margaret Thatcher 6. Steve McCurry – 9/11 7. Bruce Gilden – Yakuza 8. Elliot Erwit – Kitchen Debate 9. Guy Le Querrec – Miles Davis

Above: Image by Gina Milicia, Kochi, India There’s one essential item that every photographer needs in their kit. It’s difficult to find and can easily be lost so it’s worth taking special care to protect it. The first time I discovered I had this essential item I had been shooting for about six months. Having this essential item was a game changer. It was my secret weapon, I felt like I could do anything. Over the years I’ve realised that there are a number of factors that influence my ability to keep this essential item accessible. The more experienced I become the easier it has become not to misplace this essential item. I’ve also discovered that it’s important that the dose is correct. If I use too much of this item my images are a complete disaster. This miracle item I speak of is not available on Amazon, you don’t...

Above: Image by Gina MiliciaThis portrait was taken of a complete stranger using my 5 second rule followed by “May I because” technique. They totally work. Once they agree to pose for my camera I set them up so I get exactly the shot, pose and mode I am after.   May I take your picture? Have you ever walked past a complete stranger and thought: “Wow I’d love to photograph that person, they look incredible”? How many times have you acted on that impulse? Asking a stranger to do something for us isn’t easy, even for the most confident person. We’re all afraid of being rejected or looking silly. What will other people think about us? “You don’t ask, you don’t get.” This was my dad’s favourite saying and the secret of getting what you want is A. AskingB. How you ask.  At a recent workshop I was running, I asked two...

Above: Image by Gina Milicia “Never neglect the little things. Never skimp on that extra effort, that additional few minutes, that soft word of praise or thanks, that delivery of the very best that you can do. It does not matter what others think, it is of prime importance, however, what you think about you. You can never do your best, which should always be your trademark, if you are cutting corners and shirking responsibilities. You are special. Act it. Never neglect the little things.” – Og Mandino

“Be yourself. I much prefer seeing something, even it is clumsy, that doesn’t look like somebody else’s work.” – William Klein William Klein has lived many lives. One of the world’s most influential photographers, he pioneered the art of street photography and created some of the most iconic fashion images of the 20th century. He also made over twenty films, including the first ever documentary about Muhammad Ali and a brilliant satire of the fashion world, Who Are You Polly Magoo?

Above: Image by Gina Milicia I once worked as a pasta chef in an Italian restaurant that was famous for its bolognese sauce. It was packed out every night with bolognese junkies who couldn’t get enough of Chef Rosa’s secret sauce. Whenever anyone asked if Chef Rosa would share the recipe she would generously hand it out. At the time I thought that by giving away her precious recipe that Rosa would eventually lose patrons. Why eat out when you can make it at home for free? When I voiced my concerns, Rosa smiled and said, “I only give them the raw ingredients, the secret to a great sauce can’t be measured, bought or taught. It has to be earned from hard work and experience.” This was a powerful life lesson. Finding out “how” something is done is the easy part. Mastering a skill and making something memorable can’t be hacked...

Above: Image by Gina Milicia “I have been absolutely terrified every moment of my life – and I have never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.” – Georgia O’Keeffe 

“I can’t capture the past, but the things in front of me are an extension of the past.”  Meet one of the most prominent figures in contemporary photography, award-winning Japanese photographer Ishiuchi Miyako. In this video, Miyako shares the story behind some of her most pivotal and pioneering works. 

While a polished, posed photograph can impress viewers with its elegant composition, there’s no denying the somewhat indescribable attraction of candid photography.  When it comes to photographing friends and family, candid photos can capture authentic, special moments that make them more appealing than a staged photo shoot. And while a lot of your success will rely on having your camera ready at the right time, there are some tips you can use to help you capture some incredible candid photos. I’ve partnered with the experts at Ted’s Cameras to round up lifestyle photography tips to capture perfect candid photos. Take a look at the following tips to learn how to take good candid photos of friends and family. 1. Shoot from the hip  While your natural instinct may be to shoot photos by holding a camera to your eye, you risk spoiling the moment by trying to find the perfect...

Above: Image by Gina Milicia “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later.” – Richard Branson When I was starting out as a photographer, I imagined opportunity would arrive at my front door accompanied by an epic movie score and beautiful lighting. I pictured myself shoot ready – I had all the gear and knew how to use it, and was wearing my best “this is how I get my big break outfit.” In my dream photoshoot scenario, the people I photographed were confident, relaxed and looked authentic in front of my lens. The available light was gorgeous and abundant. The location was exactly what I pictured in my mind’s eye and I had plenty of space to move around and ample time to nail the shot. My ideal “this is your big...