Recent Gear Articles

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.

Have We Reached Peak Megapixels?

The ever-increasing megapixel count in digital cameras is a trend that continues to shape the landscape of photography. While higher megapixels offer the potential for greater detail and flexibility in post-processing, they also introduce new challenges and considerations for photographers.

We Review the Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 II Mirrorless Camera

Back in 2017, I received the Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 for review. My experiences with this mirrorless MFT camera were positive. Now, six years later, Panasonic sent me the second version: the Lumix DC-G9 II. I used it under extreme weather conditions at the Opal Coast in France.

A Review of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is here, and it has brought along some impressive updates and new features. How good is the flagship, the S24 Ultra? This excellent video review takes a look.

The Ultimate 35mm Lens Showdown for Fujifilm Users: From Budget to Premium Picks

The 35mm lens is a staple in many photographers' kits, offering a versatile focal length ideal for a range of shooting scenarios. Its popularity stems from its ability to capture scenes with a natural perspective, making it essential for street, portrait, and everyday photography. This helpful video overview takes a deep look at the best options out there.

Navigating the Complexity of Modern Cameras

The complexity and abundance of features in modern cameras can be overwhelming, often detracting from the essence of capturing great images. This insightful video tackles the issue and the way these cameras influence our work.

A Review of the AstrHori 25mm f/2.8 2-5x Ultra Macro Lens

At $249, the AstrHori 25mm f/2.8 2-5x Ultra Macro offers users a glimpse into a hidden world without a significant hit to their bank accounts. 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.

Pushing Camera Gear Beyond Its Limits: Shooting at -30° C (-22° F)

There are parameters within which a camera is supposed to work, and one extreme I had not tried with mine was the severe cold. So, I headed to Northern Finland, where I would experience temperatures I had never felt before. Here is what happened to my camera.

Mastering C-Stands: A Photographer's Essential Guide

Understanding the nuances of C-stands is crucial for photographers seeking to work in a studio. This helpful video tutorial will show you everything you need to know to ensure a safer, more efficient workflow.

A Look at the Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G and FE 24mm f/2.8 G Lenses

The Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G and FE 24mm f/2.8 G lenses offer users practical focal lengths and maximum apertures at equally practical prices, making them potentially good options for a lot of applications. This excellent video review takes a look at the two lenses and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from them in practice.
News and Analysis: The OM-1 Mark II and Two New Lenses Are Announced

OM Digital Solutions has announced an upgrade to their popular OM-1. The Mark II version has the same sensor and processor, but the development has concentrated on a much larger memory and buffer, improved dials, and a range of new features that will appeal especially to wildlife and landscape photographers.

A Review of the Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera

While vintage camera styles evoke a sense of nostalgia, serious photographers demand more than just good looks in their equipment. It's essential that high-quality cameras also excel in functionality, adaptability, and cutting-edge features. This question is pertinent when considering the Nikon Zf mirrorless camera. Does its performance live up to its classic design? This detailed video review takes a look at what you can expect from the camera.

Do You Really Need All That Gear?

Landscape photography, with its sprawling vistas and majestic scenery, often captivates us with its beauty and challenge. However, delving into this genre requires careful consideration of the equipment you bring along. In this article, let’s explore the essential gear for landscape photography, emphasizing the principle that less is more. Contrary to the notion that a vast array of equipment is necessary for capturing stunning landscapes, we'll discuss how a minimalist approach can lead to more focused and rewarding experiences in the field. Let's look at the essentials.

A Review of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S Lens

Nikon is broadening their range of mirrorless lenses, moving beyond the standard varieties and venturing into more purpose-specific, professional-grade lenses. A prime example of this expansion is the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S. Notably portable and competitively priced, this lens is worth a close look. This great video review does just that, showing the performance and image quality you can expect from the lens in use.