The photography for sale on-line is extraordinarily diverse. Each photographer has their own favorite techniques and tools for creating images. I wanted to find out what was new in the world of photography! In this two-part series, I will explore two photography trends: "through the viewfinder" and digital photo collage.

To get the scoop, I spoke with Michelle Ciarlo-Hayes, of MKC Photography in Philadelphia. Michelle explains, "'TTV' or 'Through the Viewfinder,' [is] where we use our digital cameras to shoot through the viewfinder of an antique, traditional film camera such as the Kodak Duaflex (my viewfinder of choice)." This technique is a bit awkward because, "the images in the viewfinder are reversed and you have to hold it near your waist to achieve the correct distance from your subject."

However, the result is well worth the effort.

The images are soft and warm. The viewfinder of the older camera provides a filter that imparts its imperfections on the final image. As Michelle said, "The result is a bit of vintage magic!"

Some photographers are using this technique to shoot objects that continue the vintage aesthetic: old signs, antique dolls, thrift-store finds. Others are juxtaposing the grainy, old-fashioned feel with clean, modern lines, as in Michelle's photo above.

If you're looking to try this technique for yourself, check out this tutorial on TTV photography by Russ Morris.

Find great inspiration and share your own images in the TTV Photography group on Flickr.

Or if you'd just like to line the walls with "vintage magic" check out the TTV listings on Etsy, Artfire, or 1000 Markets.

In part two, I'll explore the world of digital photo collage.

Photo Credit: Vintage Bloom by MKC Photography