Thursday, August 06, 2026
Quick Tips & Know Your Rights
While there is no way to "pin" a post, I have set the date to keep this post on the front page for new visitors. Please scroll down to see newer content as it's added.
video, narration, beats by Mark M. Hancock / © DFWmark.com
photos by Mark M. Hancock / © DFWmark.com, The Beaumont Enterprise and/or The Dallas Morning News
If you find the "Quick Tips" version to be visual hot sauce, please watch "Savory Tips to Improve Photos." It's the same presentation with more time to savor each image.
Additional information is located on the All PJ-related posts section of this blog. Underlined topics are linked to previous posts with detailed information about the subject.
Basics:
Read equipment manuals three times.
Have the right equipment for the job.
Know the difference between nouns and verbs.
Pre-consider potential visual problems and solutions.
Photo basics (see below for specifics)
Fill the frame.
Have sharp focus.
Get the right exposure.
Time the images.
Fill the frame:
Get close.
Use long lens.
Crop in camera.
Get wide.
Back away when necessary.
Focus:
Stabilize the camera.
Focus on lead eye.
Adjust plane of focus / angle.
Use depth of field.
Adjust focal length for available light.
When focusing manually, use one finger.
Zone focus.
Exposure:
Zone V.
Hand meter the area.
Use alternative meter techniques: Sunny 16, palm, grass.
Understand the dynamic range.
Timing:
Have patience.
Look for repeated action patterns.
Anticipate the action.
Shoot at apex.
Shoot before collision - wind through reaction.
Get reflective shots (quiet moments)
Seek "timeless" images.
Time of day.
Composition:
Shoot horizontals and verticals.
Start with a clean background.
Have dark corners.
Place subject in background.
Use subject and foreground to cover unwanted elements.
Leave leading space.
Use Rule of Thirds/Fifths.
Build a strong skeletal structure.
Frame items within other items.
Avoid tangents.
Have clean edges.
Lead eyes with light and focus.
Layer the image.
Employ leading lines.
Employ repetition of pattern.
Block corners.
Juxtaposition (harmony / irony)
Where to crop:
Avoid cropping joints.
Contain subject within rectangle (Golden Ratio).
Avoid lights, reflections and voids.
Frame arcs and lines.
Before shooting:
Research stories - find those with emotional elements.
Verify location, access.
Double-check equipment.
Have business cards, pencil and notepad.
Refuse access contracts.
Upon arrival:
Arrive early. Stay late.
Shoot signs and rosters. Collect paperwork. Shoot name tags and numbers.
Shoot basic package: scene, normal, tight
Shoot story: lede, transitions, kicker, emotion.
Get cutline information (5W & H). Get sound if possible.
Selecting subjects:
Hunting techniques: shadows, oblique angle, concealment, pre-compose, pre-focus
Emotion
Activity
Color
Sound
Use attention span limitations.
Goals:
Tell the story.
Get main subjects.
Get emotion.
Shoot 100-frame minimum.
Use each lens.
Shoot each angle (left, right, high, low).
Shoot reflection / refraction.
Shoot silhouette / isolation.
Shoot blur.
Before leaving:
Understand the story.
Be able to tell the story in one frame, three frames, five frames, 20 frames.
Have all cutline information.
Have 100+ images.
Count equipment.
Advanced:
Find new word.
Make unique (rare) images: access, subject, news value, combination.
Multi layers
Multi meaning
Artificial light:
Use flash whenever it's helpful (no light, too slow).
Use flash from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. outdoors (fill light).
Get flash off the camera.
Understand what causes red-eye.
Try to keep flash angles from 45 to 90 degrees.
Diffuse light.
Color balance artificial light.
Learn to light large areas.
Use multiple lights to add depth.
Be ready to manually calculate exposure (guide number).
Understand inverse square law of light.
Speed techniques (stop action).
Light painting with mixed light and flash (holiday lights, fireworks, lightning).
Increase depth of field with artificial light.
video, narration, beats by Mark M. Hancock / © DFWmark.com
photos by Mark M. Hancock / © DFWmark.com, The Beaumont Enterprise and/or The Dallas Morning News
Do you know your rights as a photojournalist?
Please watch “Know Your Rights as a Citizen Photojournalist.”
Know your rights (most is covered on this link)
It's best to be courteous to defuse confrontations.
Don't be belligerent.
The First Amendment provides the right for anyone to make photos.
Anyone can shoot in public places, streets and sidewalks.
Anyone can shoot where access is granted.
Property owners have the right to deny access.
Understand trespass law by state.
Generally, PJs can shoot until asked to stop.
Exceptions include military facilities and some areas within nuclear plants.
Model releases aren't required for editorial use (but pubs may still require).
Celebrities, politicians and emergency workers limited their right to privacy (injected themselves into spotlight).
Felony criminals have no right to privacy until in prison.
The right to privacy is seriously limited in public places.
The exception to this is medical facilities (which include ambulances in some states).
Business security isn't sufficient to prohibit photography.
Trade secrets aren't in public view. Trade dress doesn't apply to photojournalism.
Police may limit access, but can't prohibit photography (prior restraint).
You aren't required to explain the purpose of your photography.
Coercion and harassment by private security is a criminal offense in all states.
Private parties have limited rights to detain and could face criminal and civil charges.
Without a court order, private parties can't confiscate film.
Ask what law was specifically violated.
Ask for this person's name, and who they represent.
Report rights violations to police. Call before the offender does.
Enough for now,
Saturday, August 23, 2025
VOODOO Brewery – Frontier Opens
Video, photo & music composition by Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com
Y’all need to check out the new VOODOO Brewery – Frontier in Prosper. It features beer and cocktails along with a full menu including Burgers, Chicken Tikka Magic, Korean Chicken Tacos and Beer Braised Short Ribs that are smoked in-house and literally fall off the bone.
It’s located across Frontier Parkway from the Prosper High School stadium.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #Voodoo #VoodooBrewery #Prosper #CollinCounty #food #beer #cocktails #fun
Saturday, July 19, 2025
Who & How to Help
| Photos by Mark M. Hancock © The Beaumont Enterprise |
Natural disasters are inevitable. Disasters are heartbreaking when they affect humans. During these times, emergency professionals can be the difference between life and death for many victims. We previously learned about Severe Weather Damage Help to care for yourself, your family and your possessions during and after a storm. Let’s discuss who is ready to help others and how you can help them.
As always, beware of scammers attempting to steal money, goods and gifts intended for legitimate charitable organizations. Check websites and online reviews before any donations.
Check a secular charity’s IRS tax-exempt status and search for its Form 990 (an annual information return). Churches and integrated auxiliaries are exempt from filing Form 990. These organizations may be organized as relief ministries supported or operated by several entities.
Donations are always welcomed by legitimate charities.
• Cash donations are ideal because cash allows the organization to leverage volume and charitable discounts. It also requires no transportation costs and can help the locally affected community. For example, cash can buy locally produced ice where there is limited or no power and transport is unfeasible.
• Volunteers’ time is invaluable. Specialized skills from engineering to public relations are always needed. Someone must drive the relief truck, distribute food, organize the logistics and perform basic construction. A volunteer is preferred.
• Goods are also accepted by most large organizations. Non-perishable food, toiletries, clothes and other items are accepted by most charities.
While most of the goods will be sorted and packed onto trucks headed to specific disasters, some items, such as furniture, may be sold at storefronts that provide jobs for the unemployed. The sales liquidate the assets to better serve the organization as cash after disasters. Call ahead to see what a charity accepts.
They accept cash, volunteers, most donated items, and more.
Team Rubicon “is a veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves global communities before, during and after disasters and crises.” Some of their services include: disaster response, hazard mitigation, home repair, volunteer management, emergency medicine, long-term recovery, community engagement, global impact, and veteran transition to civilian life.
They accept cash, volunteers, specific heavy-duty tools, and vehicle donations to liquidate.
American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization founded in 1881, dedicated to preventing and alleviating human suffering during emergencies, primarily through disaster relief, blood donation services, health and safety training, support for military families, and international humanitarian aid.
They have Disaster Action Teams to help with everything from local house fires to large natural disasters. The teams provide emotional support, financial assistance, and information to help families begin the process of recovery.
They accept cash, volunteers, blood donations, and specific bulk products from manufacturers.
Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) is a cooperative partnership of churches and ministries within the Southern Baptist Convention. It provides immediate assistance to individuals, families, and communities affected by disasters. SBDR offers a wide range of services, including mass feeding, debris removal (especially known for chainsaw work), home repair, childcare, chaplaincy, and showers/laundry services, all delivered by trained volunteers.
They accept cash, volunteers, and local drives for particular items of need.
You can also view or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free here.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #IOV #InformationOfValue #charity #donations #flood #tornado #hurricane #NonProfit
Wednesday, July 09, 2025
ETSU Art Dorm
I’m heartbroken for their families and friends.
When I saw several people from my college posting photos I’ve made over the years, I knew something bad must have happened. I was right. However, I take comfort in knowing that my photos keep their spirits alive for those of us blessed to know these gentlemen.
I made a slideshow years ago for the East Texas State University Art Dorm residents. However, the slideshow was lost when I pulled down my photography website and became a REALTOR. Here are some images from that formative time in many of our lives. Farewell, dear friends.Sunday, February 09, 2025
Client Pop-by Gifts
I had the fastest-ever hunt-and-kill for a new home. Consequently, I stacked up some gifts while we were inspecting their future home. They were amused and said I could share their video.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
DFWmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #PopByGifts #Dallas #DallasCounty #fun #PopBy #gift #ClientAppreciation
Expand Your Portfolio
Dallas, Texas 75231
Listed at $200,000 - BAC 3%
MLS# 20818558
Luxury vinyl plank flooring in the common areas and carpet in the bedrooms were recently installed. The interior was freshly painted. The kitchen features Kenmore appliances, large stainless-steel sink, loads of storage space, a pantry and a window for fresh air. Bathrooms feature new cabinets, sinks and faucets. The community mailboxes are located to the west of the building and the community pool is to the east with sidewalks connecting to both. The Lake Highlands Trail and Jackson Branch Creek are located behind the complex. The trail connects to White Rock Trail about a half mile from the complex.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Home certified
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #condominium #JustListed #Dallas #RichardsonISD #DallasCounty #condo #LakeHighlands #ForSale
Thursday, December 05, 2024
A Great Place to Chill
Aubrey, Texas 76227
Listed at $500,000
Listed by Mark M. Hancock
MLS# 20674193
Move-in ready, east-facing 3,145 sq. ft. home in the Arrow Brooke community of Aubrey backs to a greenbelt has 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, game room, media room, covered porch, and a 3-car garage.
Rare home is near the community pool and stocked fishing ponds. Home has Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring throughout the ground floor common areas and bedrooms. Bathrooms feature designer ceramic tile floors. Front downstairs bedroom is beside a guest bath. Open-concept plan includes living room, breakfast area and kitchen. The chef’s dream kitchen has a gas cooktop and oven, granite island with sink, reverse osmosis filtration system, breakfast bar, and stainless-steel appliances. Primary ensuite bedroom has trayed ceiling, dual vanities, garden tub and separate shower. Laundry and covered patio complete the ground floor. Upstairs features two bedrooms with walk-in closets, a full bath, a massive game room and media room wired for surround sound.
Open House on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 2-4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8 from 12-2 p.m.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
DFWmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #OpenHouse #Aubrey #DentonCounty #ArrowBrooke #DentonISD #Chill #penguin #themed
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Photo-ready Treat House!
Our Treat House on Meadow Glade in Frisco is decorated and ready for family photos each night for about four hours after sundown through Thursday, 31 Oct. 2024. It will be turned off during any rain.
Located at the DEAD END of Meadow Glade in Preston Glen in Frisco, it’s the place to be to get a treat. The yard features a high-end gravestone along with skeletons as well as plenty of spiders of all sizes and shapes. The planters and glow web feature energy-saving LED lighting while the sidewalks include retro-style stake lights with modern LED flair.
Younger children should feel safe for photos because nothing jumps or screams. Bring your whole family for ghoulish portraits in our yard if you wish.
I’ve Got Your Six!
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Construction certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #Halloween #TrickOrTreat #TreatHouse #decorations #inflatable #Frisco #lights #spider #ghost
Monday, July 01, 2024
KWNC Farm & Ranch Tour - Summer 2024
• 12255 Strittmatter Road in Pilot Point listed by Jessica Self.
• 2412 Ranch Road in Whitesboro listed by Jeremy Lock.
• 256 Green Oaks Drive in Sadler listed by Leia Turner.
• 6904 Southmayd Road in Collinsville listed by Jessica Self.
• 626 Scoggins Road in Tioga listed by Jeremy Lock.
If you are ready for the big skies of Texas, contact me to see these beautiful properties in person and submit an offer.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #farm #ranch #PilotPoint #Whitesboro #Sadler #Collinsville #Tioga #KWNC #tour
Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Total Solar Eclipse 2024 - Frisco Rail Yards
Learn more about this eclipse.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #eclipse #SolarEclipse #Frisco #RailYard #video #photos #TotalSolarEclipse #event
Monday, February 19, 2024
Sports Photojournalism Portfolio
Mark M. Hancock
Photojournalist, REALTOR
214-862-7212
markhancock.blogspot.com
#DFWmark #sports #PhotoJournalism #photojournalist #portfolio #AwardWinners #ballers #competition #emotion #motion
Sunday, February 11, 2024
"Crystal" Cirque
Mark M. Hancock
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #CirqueDuSoleil #cirque #circus #Crystal #Frisco #ComericaCenter #acrobatic #skating #iPhotos
Thursday, November 23, 2023
Happy Thanksgiving 2023
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #inflatable #turkey #Thanksgiving #YardDecoration #Frisco #CollinCounty #sunshire #pumpkin
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Harry Potter Experience 2023
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #HarryPotter #ForbiddenForest #LittleElm #DentonCounty #colorful #lights #statues #forest
Sunday, September 24, 2023
Food Photography Portfolio
Food photography portfolio by Mark M. Hancock for The Beaumont Enterprise or The Dallas Morning News.
Enough for now,
#DFWmark #food #photography #photojournalist #portfolio #PhotoJournalism #drinks #cocktails #snacks #meal
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
Open House Toys
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #OpenHouse #toys #freebies #ToyCars #PlayDoh #ZooCandy #CollinCounty #DentonCounty
Friday, April 21, 2023
Chat GPT Paraphrases Me
To test it, I asked it to define photojournalism. I started snort-laughing in class when its answer randomly paraphrased ME by NAME. 🤣🤣🤣
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #ChatGPT #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #photojournalism #amusing #education #CuttingEdge #funny
Thursday, January 26, 2023
Just Takes A Little Dough
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #LittleDough #DownPayment #RealEstate #HomeBuyer #FirstTimeBuyer #dough #OpenHouseTreats #SillyScents
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Watchful Gaze
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #photos #annual #PhotoShoot #NoteCards #Celebrate #treats #gifts #camera
Monday, December 26, 2022
Christmas Day Memories 2022
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A fresh poinsettia rests on the kitchen table on Christmas Day. (Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com) |
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A Louis Jadot chardonnay cork remains amid the peels of apples and oranges on Christmas Morning. They all went into a slow cooker with lean beef, dried cherries and seasonal spices. |
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| A centerpiece rests on the kitchen bar on Christmas Day. |
Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #Christmas #food #wine #poinsettia #corkscrew #appetizers #centerpiece #MerryChristmas #HappyHolidays
Sunday, November 06, 2022
Watching an October Sunset
Photos by Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com
Enough for now,
Friday, September 02, 2022
Come visit my open house in Bluewood
Here’s some drone photos of the house where
you can get some cookies and treats during my open house tomorrow. Not only is it a corner lot with only one shared fence, it’s literally across the street
from the community pool.
Open House
Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022
From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
924 Lawndale St., Celina
Listed at $625,000
Listed by Christy Williamson

This 2,809 sq. ft. corner lot home in the Bluewood community was built by Meritage in 2018. The home has 4 bedrooms, 2 and a half baths, front porch, outdoor living, game room, and flex room.
Casual dining room and living room with a fireplace are off the kitchen.
#DFWmark #REALTOR #OpenHouse #DronePhoto #aerial #Celina #CelinaISD #CollinCounty #Bluewood #GameRoom
Monday, August 29, 2022
I'm Obsessed with my drone
OK Y'all,
I'm going to be obsessed with the drone for a while. It lets me get the angles I've always wanted. That's how sunsets should look!
I love that the police were patrolling the neighborhood at the perfect time to be in the photo.
#DFWmark #REALTOR #LittleElm #drone #sunset #police #pond
Monday, March 28, 2022
710 Emerald Sound Blvd. in Oak Point Slideshow
710 Emerald Sound Blvd.
Oak Point 75068
Offered at $650,000
MLS# 14755249
This 2,971 sq.ft. home has 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 2-car garage attached with separate detached 2-car garage/workshop, 2 living rooms, dining and breakfast rooms, game room, fireplace, screened patio, spacious barn-style shed on a full acre of land.
Roof replaced March 2022. Screened outdoor living was completed in 2021. Enjoy the firepit, yard to romp and space to park RVs.
Kitchen has double oven, island, planning desk, walk-in pantry, and window bench. Formal dining and parlor are great for entertaining or convert into a relaxed home office. Downstairs is complete with a powder room, utility room and large family room with a fireplace.
Upstairs, primary suite can easily handle a Texas King bed, has walk-in closet, garden tub, separate shower and double sinks. Three bedrooms share a Hollywood bath with two separate sinks and vanities. The large game room can convert to a 5th bedroom, media room or super-sized office. Solar panel lease must transfer.
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, Certified New Home Sales
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #OpenHouse #house #home #OakPoint #DentonCounty #Acre #land #LargeYard #RVSpace
Tuesday, February 15, 2022
PhotoJournalism 3 Million View Contest
To celebrate this milestone, I'm offering a signed print of my work to three different blog visitors (one for each million views). I normally don't sign prints, so these are rare.
What's the prize?
I’ll print and mail a signed 11x14 photo print to three winners. Winners will select which print they want from any photos on my blog or Instagram feeds (personal or business) except my photo mosaics or images with © (copyright symbol) next to The Dallas Morning News.
In other words, y'all can pick any image I've posted with a © next to my name, DFWmark or The Beaumont Enterprise that isn’t a photo mosaic.
For example, this image isn't included, but this image is. They were both shot for DMN, but the first is as staff and the second is freelance. Simply look at the copyright symbol location and pick your favorite.
Older images may look out of focus on the blog, but it's an image compression problem from back when Blogger was new. They're as sharp and clear as any of the newer images.
Everyone who enters gets my monthly Information Of Value newsletter (you can download the book for free from my Google Drive). You can unsubscribe at any time.
What's the catch?
Winners will be selected in a randomized computer drawing after the contest period ends on 28 Feb. 2022. Winners’ names will be posted on the blog and those winners will be notified to select a preferred image.
Contest is limited to one entry per person/email address/phone. I need each entrant’s name, email address and phone number to verify. If the winner is under 18, the winner’s parents/guardian must approve their photo selection.
I'm only going to pay shipping inside the U.S. If the winner is outside the U.S., we can work out some arrangement to get the print to you. Otherwise, whomever wins gets a prize.
How to win?
Email your Name and phone number to DFWmark21@gmail.com. Each complete entry (name and phone number via email) will be assigned a number. On March 1, I’ll load the number of complete entries into a randomizer and allow it to pick three numbers. The people assigned to those numbers will be notified to claim their prize. I’ll need physical mailing addresses at that point for the winners.
If I only get a comment, it's not a winner. I'll add the winners’ names and general location (city, state, country) to this post when there are confirmed winners.
Good luck to all. Please share a link to this information and invite your friends to enter!
Sunday, February 13, 2022
Tuesday, January 04, 2022
Ready to Celebrate in 2022!
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP
REALTOR
214-862-7212
markhancockrealty@gmail.com
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #RealEstate #celebrate #confetti #stars #happy #joy #gold #ChampagneFlute
Monday, June 07, 2021
DFWmark Information of Value book
Bookmark this address: link.
I assembled and updated a book of all the IOVs that I’ve produced since March 2020. The book will be updated with each new IOV on my Google Drive. Because it’s a PDF file, it can be printed at home in full size without additional rasterization. Also, all the websites mentioned are hyperlinked in the PDF.
When you need access to information such as what to do after severe weather hits or where to take visitors for fun in DFW, it’s all in one place at no cost to you!
I’ve Got Your Six!
Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build Certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
#DFWmark #REALTOR #UsefulInfo #InformationOfValue #IOV #EmergencyInfo #safety #home #fun #Frisco
Tuesday, February 09, 2021
Short Ribs and Peppers
Fayrouz made beautiful short ribs with mini peppers in a Dutch oven. This is before she added red wine and braised.
#DFWmark #food #beef #ShortRibs #peppers #savory #dinner #DutchOven #Texas
Monday, February 08, 2021
Chichen Itza Temple of Kukulcan
(© Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com)
I finally fixed my film scanner!
#DFWmark #REALTOR #Mexico #ChichenItza #Kuklucan #temple #pyramid #Mayan #Aztec




















