Recent Gear Articles
Do You Really Need More Megapixels?
Choosing a new camera can be overwhelming, especially with the constant emphasis on megapixels in marketing materials. While more megapixels generally translate to more detail, it's crucial to understand how they impact your photography and whether a higher megapixel count truly aligns with your needs.
Viltrox 40mm f/2.5 Review: A Budget Prime Lens for Nikon Z Mount
For Nikon Z mount users seeking an affordable prime lens, the Viltrox 40mm f/2.5 is an intriguing option. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
The Proven Classic: A Long-Term Review of The Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R
Every once in a while, a piece of gear becomes an instant classic. The Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R carries that title with pride and deservedly so! I have been using it for nearly a decade and cannot recommend it enough. It's a brilliant lens with flaws that are easy to ignore.
Swirly Bokeh With Autofocus - How Good Is the TTArtisan 56mm f/1.8 AF?
Vintage lenses have long been celebrated for their unique character and cinematic charm, captivating photographers and Hollywood filmmakers alike in recent years. Can a modern Chinese lens give the classic Soviet Helios a run for its money?
Sony a9 III Global Shutter Versus High-Speed Sync
Have you heard the buzz? Sony just unveiled the Sony a9 III, boasting the groundbreaking feature of being the first full frame camera equipped with a global shutter. This technological leap has sent shockwaves through the photography industry, but it's also sparked a flurry of questions, particularly regarding its compatibility with flash and whether it outperforms high-speed sync. But before we delve into that, let's demystify what a global shutter is and how it revolutionizes flash photography.
Versatile and Reliable: The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens
Tamron is one of the most well-respected lens brands out there, offering a variety of options at great prices. One such option is the 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2, and this great video review takes a look at what you can expect from it.
A Review of the New Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens
Viltrox is rapidly gaining a reputation as the photography world's champion of affordability, consistently delivering lenses that defy their price tags with impressive performance. One of their latest offerings, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, specifically designed for Fujifilm X Series cameras, is no exception. This lens boasts an incredibly wide f/1.2 aperture paired with a versatile 75mm focal length, making it an enticing option for portrait, wedding, and low-light photographers.
A Review of the Lomography Petzval 55mm f/1.7 Mark II
As a photographer, you're always looking for ways to expand your creative toolbox and capture unique images. One way to achieve this is by using lenses with special characteristics, like the Lomography Petzval 55mm f/1.7 Mark II. This lens offers a distinct aesthetic, taking inspiration from 19th-century optical designs to produce images with swirly bokeh and a vintage feel.
Maximizing Your Photography Trips Through Appropriate Clothing Choices
Capturing the beauty of the natural world through photography is an art form that requires a keen eye, technical skills, and creative vision. However, one often underestimated aspect that can significantly impact the outcome of a landscape photography trip is the choice of clothing.
The Asus Vivobook S 14: Affordable OLED and Unexpected Power
Finding the right laptop can be a challenge, especially with the constant influx of new models and fluctuating prices. While the general advice for 2024 has been to stick with slightly older models for cost savings, the Asus Vivobook S 14 presents a compelling case for considering a 2024 release.
Time Tested, Ever Reliable: We Review The Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2 R WR
There is a unique series of lenses for the X-Mount. They do not offer the brightest apertures, nor do they use linear motors, but what they lack in features, they make up in beautiful vintage-looking, slanted, weather-resistant, and compact build. Some call them Fujicrons and the 35mm started it all.
Is a $2,300 50mm Lens Worth It?
Canon makes some wildly good and wildly expensive lenses, including the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM, which offers amazing results but also costs north of $2,000. Do you really need to spend that much? This useful video will help you decide.
A Year With the Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM Review
The 35mm focal length is a staple for many photographers, offering a versatile perspective suitable for various scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. This great video review takes a look at one of the best options out there.
The Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: A Budget-Friendly Lens for Everyday Photography
While professional-grade lenses offer exceptional performance, they often come with a hefty price tag. For those seeking a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality, the Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens is a compelling choice.
Bang For Your Buck? We Review the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z
Unlike Canon, Nikon understands the importance of a third-party lens manufacturer for a healthy ecosystem and a stronger incentive for any potential buyer. And thanks to that, we get more and more interesting lenses for their mirrorless Z mount, like this proven budget-friendly option.
Is the DJI Pocket 3 the Best Camera of Year? My Six-Month Review
The Sony a7 IV: A Photographer's Workhorse in 2024
The Sony a7 IV, despite being released in 2021, continues to be a relevant and powerful tool for photographers in 2024.
The Leica Q3 Has a Special Power That You Might Not Have Heard About
Even a lot of the people who purchased the new Leica Q3 might not be aware of a feature this camera has that can greatly expand your creative possibilities for using flash. Within the Q3’s beautiful magnesium alloy body lies a secret hidden in plain sight.
Still Can't Get a Fujifilm X100VI? Here Are Some Alternatives to Consider While You're Waiting
Right now, it seems like nobody has the new Fujifilm X100VI for sale unless you’re willing to pay a hefty premium over the retail price. But are you really ready to pull the trigger on one, or still on the fence about it? Never fear—help is at hand.
We Review the HP Sprocket 3x4: In a Class of Its Own
The title of this article makes it seem like I'm heaping some sort of superlative description upon what is, more or less, a typical Zink-based printer that doesn't require ink or cartridges. And when it comes to this, the $129 HP Sprocket 3x4 Instant Photo Printer, I am. Well, more or less.
A Review of the Affordable DJI Mini 4K
The new DJI Mini 4K offers a very affordable and portable entry into the world of drone photography and filmmaking. Can it match your needs? This excellent video takes a look at what to expect.
Is the Sony a7C II the Ultimate Travel Camera?
Choosing the right camera forwork on the go can be a daunting task, as you need a versatile tool that balances image quality, portability, and performance. The Sony a7C II is a strong contender, offering a compelling blend of features that cater to photographers on the move.
The Canon EOS R50: A Compact Mirrorless Option with Pros and Cons
For photographers seeking a compact and lightweight camera system, the Canon EOS R50 offers an affordable and portable entry into the company's mirrorless system.
The Fujifilm X100VI: A Powerful Upgrade With a Familiar Feel
For those seeking a blend of portability, performance, and a unique shooting experience, the Fuji X100 series has long been a popular choice. With the release of the X100VI, Fuji has taken this beloved camera to new heights, offering significant improvements while retaining the charm that has charmed photographers for years.
A Year With the Sony a7R V After 14 Years With Canon
The Sony a7R V sits in an elite class of cameras, offering some of the best image quality available today. Is it right for you? This great video review takes a look.
The Sony Cyber-shot R1: A Vintage Camera With a Modern Heart
It's amazing how far camera technology has come in a short time. The Sony Cyber-shot R1, one of the top cameras in its day back in 2005, is a great example of that.
Is Fujifilm Coming for Canon, Nikon, and Sony With Their Next Camera?
Fujifilm has already rewired the paradigm of medium format by making it more affordable and accessible than ever, and it looks like they have no intentions of slowing down.
It’s About Time We Start Making Smarter Choices in Getting New Bags for Our Camera Gear
It’s 2024. The number of options available to use when choosing gear and accessories has rapidly grown. Have you considered these crucial factors?
This Ultra-Affordable Lens Performs Much Better Than It Should
Finding affordable, high-quality lenses can be a challenge. Thankfully, companies like Viltrox are stepping up to offer compelling options. One such option is the Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Z lens for the Nikon Z mount, a prime lens that boasts impressive features at a remarkably low price point.
This Camera Makes Me a Better Photographer
The Fujifilm X100VI: Does the Lens Resolve 40 Megapixels?
The jump from 26 to 40 megapixels in the Fujifilm X100VI sparked debate about whether the lens could keep up. This video tackles that question head-on, comparing the X100V and X100VI lenses to see how well they resolve detail and handle the demands of a high-resolution sensor.
A Humorous Look at a Ridiculous Lens
Capturing stunning wildlife and street photographs requires specific equipment, particularly when it comes to lenses. The choice of lens significantly impacts image quality, versatility, and the overall photographic experience. Nonetheless, there's probably a limit. This lens might be past that limit.
Made For Travelling And Vlogging? A Preview of Sony FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G
Sony released a rather odd lens a few days ago. The FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G is neither a replacement for the GMaster nor the cheaper f/4. It is its own odd thing. What is its purpose? Where does it fit in the lineup? Does purchasing it make sense? For some, it most definitely might. Not for all, though.
Beyond the Ordinary: Expanding Your Photography With Weird Lenses
For photographers seeking unique and creative avenues, exploring adapted lenses opens up a world of possibilities. This journey into adapted lenses can lead to surprising and unusual results and expand your creativity.
Canon Introduces Another Wild Idea
Canon has recently filed a patent application that has caught the attention of a few eagle-eyed photographers, as it could radically transform the ways in which we can use any lens.
The Sony a7R V: Top Image Quality in a World of Speed Demons
Choosing a new camera can be a daunting task, especially with the rapid advancements in technology and the wide range of options available. For photographers who prioritize image quality and advanced features, the Sony a7R V has remained a popular choice since its release. But is it still worth considering in 2024, with newer models on the horizon?
A Nostalgic Look at an Early Digital Camera
Early digital cameras, despite their limitations, were a marvel of their time, offering a glimpse into the future of image capture and paving the way for the advanced technology we enjoy today. This fun video takes a look back at one such camera.
This Camera Is an Absolute Beast for Video (and an Excellent Still Photography Camera Too)
Whether you’re shooting video, stills, or some combination, there’s a camera that offers incredible levels of excellence in both, and at a price point that’s hard to ignore. Watch it get put through its paces in a 4-week trip to South America, and see how it stacks up against the competition.
Review of the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS
A 300mm lens with an aperture of f/2.8 is a wonderful lens. But it’s often large and heavy, or so it used to be. Although the diameter of the lens is unchanged, Sony managed to keep the weight within acceptable limits. It makes the FE 300mm GM OSS a great tool to work with.
You Wish You Could Own This Lens
Capturing the perfect shot often requires a delicate balance between focal length, image quality, and portability. Finding a lens that excels in all three areas can feel like searching for a mythical creature. That's why lenses like these make us drool.
Going Back to a DSLR for Sports Photography for a Day
In 2019, I wrote about how I would never quit full-frame DSLRs. Back then, I complained about mirrorless cameras for wonky bodies and mediocre autofocus. Today, I’m eating crow.
The Fujifilm X100VI: A Photographer's Perspective
The allure of a new camera often lies in its technical specifications and the promise of enhanced capabilities. However, the true measure of a camera's value rests in its ability to seamlessly integrate into a photographer's individual approach and empower their creative vision. This exploration of the Fujifilm X100VI offers valuable insights into this nuanced relationship between photographer and tool.
The Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: A Budget Zoom Lens for FullFrame Cameras
Full frame cameras offer exceptional image quality and versatility, but their lenses can often be bulky and expensive. For photographers seeking a compact and affordable zoom lens option, the Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM provides a compelling solution. This lens is particularly well-suited for travel, street photography, and everyday shooting scenarios.
3 Practical Lessons Photographing Death Valley Helped Me Remember
On my most recent photography trip, I was reminded of some key landscape and travel photography lessons. In this article, I want to dive into how you can apply these to your next photography trip.
Canon's Smart Move With Sigma and Tamron Shakes Up the APS-C Lens Market
The recent introduction of new lenses for Canon's RF-S mount by third-party manufacturers Sigma and Tamron is a significant development for the industry. These lenses, all designed for APS-C format cameras, are a significant development that reveals Canon's strategic approach to its mirrorless camera lineup.
Can the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Do It All?
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR offers just about all the focal lengths a person could want in one package, making it an intriguing option for a wide range of users, particularly landscape and travel photographers. Can it deliver good results, though? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
Fstoppers Reviews the Goldenmate 1000VA Surge Protector Battery
As much as we love to talk about composition, lighting, and color, it's important to address the fundamental aspects of keeping your photography setup efficient and protected. No matter what you do, we all need one thing: reliable power. Power outages, voltage spikes, power surges, and other electrical disturbances can result in data loss or even worse, hardware damage. This is where the Goldenmate UPS 1000VA/800W Surge Protector Battery Power Backup comes in.
How Good Is This Ultra-Affordable Portrait Lens?
Portrait lenses are often quite expensive, with some easily running north of $2,000. That's why, at $168, the TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 is an intriguing option for Nikon Z, Sony E, and Fujifilm X APS-C users. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
Canon's Most Important Cameras Inch Closer to Release
The excitement surrounding the imminent release of the Canon EOS R1 and R5 Mark II is palpable, with retailers gearing up and training sessions underway, meaning we're getting even closer to seeing the next generation of Canon powerhouses.