Recent Gear Articles

The Premium Compact King Is Back! Fujifilm X100VI Preview

The successor to the worldwide popular, and rightfully so, Fujifilm X100V has finally been revealed! The new X100VI brings forth some very welcome features while staying true to what made the X100 lineup great. We’ve used it for a while and loved it! How was it? What’s new? What stayed the same? Is it worth upgrading? Will you even be able to get one?

How to Record Better Audio: We Review the Saramonic MV7000

Times when the main creative outlet for photographers was taking and editing photos are long gone. For many, recording videos plays an equally important role now. But, the creation of videos is not only about the visuals. Audio is equally important. And for it, you need a good microphone, like the Saramonic MV7000.

Easy Tips to Keep Your Camera Gear Clean

I'm a bit of a neat freak when it comes to my gear. Anyone who has bought any of my used gear has usually told me it looks like new, save for maybe by the tripod mount, which I usually attach a plate to while I'm camped out by lighthouses.

Understanding the Impact of New Photography Gear

Exploring the nuanced feelings of acquiring a new camera, especially after years of loyalty to a previous model, reveals a complex mix of expectations for photographers. The anticipation of significant improvements in quality and functionality often clashes with the reality of marginal gains, leading to a reflective consideration of what truly enhances one's craft.

The Secret Way I Save Money When Buying Gear

Buying equipment is as exciting as ever, if you ask me. While my tastes are probably slightly different than yours, in the sense that I buy '90s flash gear and DSLRs, I have been doing this for around five years and have come up with a few tips on how to save money when buying gear.

A Review of the HP Spectre x360 2-in-1 Laptop

The HP Spectre x360 2-in-1 laptop offers a lot of power, screen real estate, and flexibility in a portable package, making it an attractive option for creatives on the go. This great video review takes a look at the laptop and the sort of performance you can expect from it in use.

Can Canon and Sony Both Be Number One in Mirrorless?

If you happened to see the recent press release and subsequent articles, you may be under the impression that Canon has become the number one brand of mirrorless cameras. And this data is probably correct. But after their release, Sony was asked about it and decided to share their end of the same data, which also says they are number one in mirrorless. So what's the deal?

News About Canon's Most Important Cameras Emerges

The 1 Series and 5 Series are Canon's most important professional bodies, representing their flagship and workhorse cameras, respectively. As such, many users are eagerly awaiting more information on the upcoming EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II cameras, and we now know a bit more.

A Review of the Fujifilm GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR Lens

For Fujifilm medium format users, the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR lens offers a wide angle of view suitable for genres like landscape and architectural photography. 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.

Choosing the Right Lens: A Beginner's Guide to Zoom and Primes Lenses

The choice between zoom and prime lenses is a fundamental consideration for photographers, affecting everything from image quality to shooting style. Understanding their differences is key to selecting the right lens for your photography needs, whether you're capturing landscapes, portraits, or fast-paced events. This helpful video will show you what you need to know.

We Review the Compact Sony a7C II and a7C R Mirrorless Cameras

Most people are familiar with the Sony a7-series cameras. These mirrorless cameras have matured over the last decade and enjoy a wide fan base. However, they have also grown significantly in size. If you prefer a smaller form factor, perhaps it's time to consider the Sony a7C II and a7CR.

A Review of the Impressive Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S Lens

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S lens has captured attention with its radical design and potential for exceptional image quality and stunning bokeh. But does it live up to these expectations, especially with so much stiff competition out there? This detailed video review explores the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect from the lens in real-world usage.

This $35 Wannabe Fujifilm Camera Is Something Else

Discovering a $35 knockoff of the Fujifilm X100V that claims to shoot 48-megapixel images and 4K video seems like a dream come true for budget-conscious photographers. However, as the saying goes: you get what you pay for.

The Good, The Bad, and the Caveat of the Fujifilm X-T5

When Fujifilm released the X-T5 on November 25, 2022, I was one of the first in the queue as I wanted to experience a high-megapixel APS-C sensor. This was simply not GAS, as I had only months earlier purchased an X-T4, which was comfortably doing everything I needed. However, 40 megapixels for landscapes in such a compact and stylish design, I simply needed to see what it could do and more to the point, could do what I needed for my photography. Fast-forward 429 days later, has it been able to do everything?

A Review of the OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS Lens

The OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS lens offers micro four thirds users a ton of reach, making it suitable for a range of applications like sports and wildlife photography. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.

Are We About to See This Insane Cameraphone?

A relatively new player in the smartphone arena may be setting the stage for a groundbreaking reveal, a device that promises to redefine expectations with its monumental battery capacity. This forthcoming model, dubbed the P28K promises mind-blowing battery life.

We Review the Fotopro X-Go Max E 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Travel tripods are not just for travel photography. They pack lighter and more compact so that traveling with them can be less of a hassle, but just like any tripod, they can be used in a variety of shooting scenarios. This one from Fotopro is an option for shoots with higher demand.

A Review of the Yongnuo YN 50mm f/1.8 DA DSM PRO Lens

One of the original budget brands of the digital era, Yongnuo has long been known for creating very affordable speedlights. In more recent tears, the company has branched out into manufacturing lenses, such as the new YN 50mm f/1.8 DA DSM PRO for Fujifilm X Series cameras. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.

Where Are We in the Camera Wars?

The evolution of camera technology has reached a remarkable juncture where the once fierce competition among manufacturers seems to have plateaued to a degree, at least with regards to headline specs, making it an intriguing period for photography enthusiasts. This shift is crucial as it suggests a move towards a more nuanced approach to camera development, focusing on features that cater to the specific needs of photographers rather than engaging in specifications wars.

A Hidden Gem: The Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8

Viltrox has swiftly transitioned from an under-the-radar brand to a well-regarded lens maker, celebrated for its budget-friendly yet impressive performing lenses. The AF 20mm f/2.8, priced under $200, continues this trend. The question is, does it live up to the high expectations set by contemporary lenses? This detailed video review explores the lens' performance and the quality of images it produces.

The Financial and Artistic Advantages of Adapting Vintage Lenses

Adapting vintage lenses for use on modern mirrorless cameras offers an innovative way to explore different gear without breaking the bank. This technique not only promises a budget-friendly alternative to buying new lenses but also delivers unique image qualities that can significantly elevate the creative aspect of photography, making it a valuable avenue to consider.

A Review of the Sony a7R V Mirrorless Camera

The Sony a7R series of mirrorless cameras has consistently been celebrated for delivering among the highest resolution figures seen in full-frame cameras, complemented by a diverse array of functionalities catering to various photographic styles and uses. The a7R V stands as the latest and greatest in the series, and this detailed video review explores the camera, offering insights into the kind of image quality and performance you can expect from it in usage.

What Camera Gear to Pack When You Visit The Polar Regions

It's a trip of a lifetime, after all. You'll to want to make sure you have the right gear with you when the bears start sparring or the leopard seals give chase to an unsuspecting penguin chick out for its first swim. I asked two experts in the field to provide their recommendations: Marius Coetzee, with Oryx Photo Tours, which operates in both northern and southern polar regions and Paul Zizka who runs his own photography workshops as well as working with OFFBEAT, running photo tours in the northern polar regions. I also guide with GAdventures, exploring Antarctica, and Frontiers North Adventures, leading adventures in Canada's sub-Arctic.

A Nostalgic Look at the Canon EOS D60

The Canon EOS D60, released in 2002, represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of consumer cameras, combining affordability with advanced features for its time.

Say I Do to the Right Equipment for Wedding Photography

In scenarios where you don’t get a second chance at capturing that photo, such as a proposal or a first kiss moment, you need trustworthy and high-quality equipment. In this article, we discuss the best equipment and tools for wedding photographers.

A Review of the Versatile HP Spectre x360 Two-in-One Laptop

With a two-in-one design and a gorgeous OLED screen, the HP Spectre x360 looks like a fantastic option for demanding creatives on the go. How does it perform in practice? This great video review takes a look at what you can expect.

How Good Is the Dynamic Range of the Sony a9 III?

The unveiling of the Sony a9 III, with its groundbreaking global sensor, has certainly turned heads in the photography community, sparking discussions about its potential drawbacks in terms of dynamic range and ISO capabilities. This comprehensive video analysis offers a peek into what users can anticipate from this sensor.

A Review of the Sony a9 III Mirrorless Camera

The Sony a9 III is one of the most exciting and important cameras to come along in years, and while its headline feature is its full frame global shutter, it comes with a wide gamut of impressive capabilities. This excellent video review takes a look at the camera and everything you can expect from it in use.

Has Image Stabilization Become a Necessity Today?

Every new camera incorporates some form of stabilization system. While much of photography doesn’t necessarily require image stabilization, on some occasions, it may have become a necessity, especially with today's high-resolution cameras.

A Review of the Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera

The allure of retro camera designs brings back fond memories for many and captures the attention of retro enthusiasts, yet seasoned photographers look for substance over style in their gear. They prioritize cameras that are not only visually appealing but also superior in terms of functionality, versatility, and modern technological advancements. This becomes a crucial consideration when evaluating the Nikon Zf mirrorless camera's capabilities against its retro aesthetic. This comprehensive video review takes a look at if its performance can match its style.

Essential Gear for Hiking Photographers

In the realm of landscape photography, the gear a photographer carries can significantly impact their ability to capture stunning images or even get to a location. This is especially true for those who integrate a lot of hiking into their photography expeditions. The right equipment can make the difference between a successful shoot and a missed opportunity, ensuring comfort, preparedness, safety, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.

The Nikon Z 9 Is Off to Space!

Nikon has today announced that their Z 9 model has boldly gone where no Z series camera body has gone before! That's right, the Nikon Z 9 along with a selection of lenses, is off to space and I, for one, cannot wait to see the images.

Another Tripod That Will Shake Up the Competition Hits the Market

I recently reviewed the Neewer Litetrip LT35 tripod. It was one of two that were sent to me to try. The second was the TP62. Also a carbon fiber travel tripod, this one was quite dissimilar from the first, offering a very distinct experience.

A Review of the Fujifilm GF 32-64mm f/4 R LM WR Lens

The GF 32-64mm f/4 R LM WR offers Fujifilm medium format users a useful wide angle lens suitable for a nice variety of applications. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in use.

Can You Find Treasure in a Pawn Shop?

Every photographer dreams of walking into a pawn shop and walking out with an impossibly good deal. Here's what happened when one photographer dropped $100 on a box of 20 cameras in a pawn shop.

The Realities of Pro Photography: Navigating Gear Choices in High-Stakes Shoots

In the realm of professional photography, the choice of equipment is a topic that often stirs debate. While it's a common adage that the gear doesn't make the photographer, the reality of commercial photography paints a different picture, especially when considering the high stakes and expectations involved in professional shoots.

Embracing Limitations and the Path to Expressive Photography

The perennial debate among photographers about the significance of gear in their craft often overlooks a crucial aspect: the creative vision and technique of the person behind the camera. This discussion is particularly relevant as photography technology continues to evolve and grow, offering tools that range from high-end professional equipment to more accessible consumer-grade cameras.

Prominent YouTuber Robbed of $16,000 Worth of Camera Gear

It is one of a photographer's worst nightmares: traveling around in a different country carrying thousands of dollars' worth of camera gear, only to see it disappear before your very eyes. Manny Ortiz was traveling through Italy when, unfortunately, he was robbed of some very expensive gear. Check out his story here.

Review of the Incredible Canon RF 10-20mm f/4L IS STM

Do you remember the Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM that was released in 2015? It was a one-of-a-kind lens and a large and heavy one. Canon released an RF version, and it is not only smaller and lighter, it offers an even wider field of view. This is the review of that lens; the RF 10-20mm f/4L IS STM.

A Review of the Affordable Yongnuo 35mm f/2Z DF DSM Lens

The Yongnuo 35mm f/2Z DF DSM, just like the company's well-known speedlights, is quite affordable, making it an intriguing option for a large range of 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.

This Photographer's Dream Camera Is a DSLR From 2001

The world of photography is constantly evolving, with new camera technologies emerging and pushing out old ones seemingly daily. For photographers, especially those with a penchant for vintage gear, exploring cameras that blend classic design with modern functionality can be a fascinating journey. This exploration lands on a unique camera from 2001 in this fun video.

Choosing the Right Fujifilm Camera for You

Selecting the right camera can be a daunting task for photographers, especially when working within a specific budget. This helpful video addresses this challenge for Fujifilm users, providing valuable insights into the best camera choices across various price points.