Photography Gear

Gear isn't everything — but it's not nothing either. This section covers the cameras, lenses, accessories, and equipment that photographers actually use, with an eye toward helping you make smart decisions rather than just chasing the latest release. Expect news, analysis, hands-on impressions, and the occasional reality check on whether that upgrade is actually worth it.

Hands On With the Peak Design X Carryology Collaboration

Peak Design, known for their straps, bags, and carry accessories, has partnered with Carryology, releasing special editions of their popular products. I was sent a few of these, so consider this a hands-on first look at them. 

Canon EOS R1: Is This the Ultimate Camera?

When you’re shooting fast-paced wildlife or demanding sports, the right camera can make all the difference. Canon’s new EOS R1 aims to be that difference, equipped to handle action photography, where timing, speed, and image quality are key.  

Hasselblad Expands XCD Portable Lens Series With XCD 3.4/75P

Hasselblad has unveiled the XCD 3.4/75P, a new addition to its XCD Portable (P) lens series, designed for versatility in portrait, street, and still-life photography. This lens introduces a standard focal length to the XCD P lineup, providing a 59mm equivalent focal length on full frame, while maintaining portability and high optical quality.  

Is the TTArtisan 75mm f/1.5 Worth the Hype?

Using unique lenses can add artistic flair to your shots, and the TTArtisan 75mm f/1.5 Swirly Bokeh lens is one of those options, offering a distinctive, swirling bokeh effect.

Using Full Frame Lenses on a Medium Format Camera

Medium format cameras offer an elevated experience for those who want more detail and depth in their images, yet they’ve traditionally been seen as impractical or overly expensive. Fujifilm's GFX100S II challenges this idea by bringing impressive quality in a compact, user-friendly format, but lenses are still pricey. What if you could adapt more affordable full frame options? 

Unboxing 73 Pounds of Mystery Camera Gear

Buying large lots of camera gear is like a treasure hunt for anyone who loves photography. With the right approach, you might discover rare, valuable, or simply interesting pieces that add character to your collection.  

The Fujifilm X100VI Is Changing Photography and Now I Understand Why

I never understood why the Fujifilm X100VI is so popular, especially considering how lackluster it appeared on paper. After using it for a few months, I now fully understand exactly why this camera is still sold out everywhere. The answer is not what you'd expect. 

Canon’s New Patent Hints at a Game-Changing Lens for Professionals

Canon has set its sights on a lens many photographers have only dreamed about: a high-speed, mid-range zoom with impeccable optical quality. With their recent patent for the RF 70-150mm f/2L IS USM, Canon appears ready to push boundaries in both image quality and innovation. 

Building My Dream Camera

It’s that time again when my brain starts to ponder the endless question: What would be my idea of a perfect camera? 

Why Canon’s RF 70-200mm Z Lens Might Be the Best Yet

The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens promises new features and updated optics that make it a strong contender in the high-end telephoto market. Its robust build, range, and precision make it particularly suited to professionals who demand consistent, high-quality performance across various settings. 

Why the 24-70mm Isn’t as Boring as You Think

The 24-70mm lens has often been labeled as the “boring” option, sandwiched between the extremes of wide angle and telephoto lenses. But this lens, rather than being uninspiring, could be just what you need. 

Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III VXD: A Macro Lens That Does It All

The Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Macro lens is a versatile option for those who need high-quality macro capabilities in an affordable package. This lens is a remake of the original model for DSLRs, bringing updated features and enhanced performance that make it a strong contender. 

Apple Introduces New MacBook Pro With M4 Chip Family and Apple Intelligence

Apple has announced its latest MacBook Pro lineup, featuring the powerful M4 chip family and the addition of Apple Intelligence, a new feature focused on enhancing privacy and personal productivity through machine learning capabilities. The new models, available in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, are now offered in both space black and silver finishes.

Apple Expands M4 Chip Family With New M4 Pro and M4 Max Processors

Apple has introduced the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, rounding out its M4 family designed to power MacBook Pro laptops and other Mac models. These chips, built with second-generation 3-nanometer technology, promise improved performance and efficiency compared to previous generations, specifically catering to professionals and creative users with advanced processing needs.

The Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3 Lens: Versatility in a Compact Package

The Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3 is a compact and lightweight lens designed to be an ideal companion for smaller full frame mirrorless cameras. It pairs especially well with models like the Lumix S9, creating a portable setup that’s easy to carry around for travel, street, and everyday use.  

Sennheiser Launches Profile Wireless: A Compact Audio Solution for Creators

Sennheiser has introduced the Profile Wireless, a versatile, two-channel, 2.4 GHz microphone system for creators and videographers. This all-in-one system connects to a wide range of devices, including mobile phones, cameras, and computers, and can be used in various configurations, such as a clip-on, handheld, or desktop microphone.

Canon Unveils RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual Lens for VR and 3D Content Creators

Canon has introduced its latest offering, the RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens, designed specifically for content creators focused on virtual reality (VR) and 3D production. The new lens, compatible with the Canon EOS R7, provides an immersive 3D viewing experience and aims to simplify VR and spatial content production. 

Canon Launches the RF 24mm f/1.4 L VCM Lens for Hybrid Photography and Video

Canon has released the RF 24mm f/1.4 L VCM, a new wide angle L-series lens tailored for hybrid content creators who work across both photography and video. The lens offers a 24mm focal length with a bright maximum aperture of f/1.4, making it ideal for low-light shooting, shallow depth-of-field effects, and capturing wide perspectives. 

Introducing the New Profoto D30 Strobe

Profoto just announced their new 500 Ws studio strobe, the D30. I've been playing with it for the last few weeks, and today I am finally able to share with you a full photoshoot using this powerful light. 

Photographic Presents Under $100 for the Coming Season of Goodwill

Sadly, the world in which we’re living has become more polarized, with hatred splitting communities and war tearing countries apart. Many people roll their eyes when the holidays approach, but perhaps we should all be happy it’s only a few weeks away and think about what would help other photographers and brighten their days. 

Why Canon's New 35mm f/1.4 Lens Stands Out

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM promises sharpness, speed, and versatility, making it a compelling option for a variety of shooting scenarios. Whether you’re into video or photography, it's a lens worth a look.  

Apple Unveils New iMac With M4 Chip, Enhanced Camera, and Apple Intelligence

Apple has announced the release of the latest iMac, which features the new M4 chip and integrates Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI-driven personal assistant. The updated iMac, now available in a range of vibrant colors, brings improvements across performance, display, and connectivity, all within its thin, streamlined design.

Apple Debuts Apple Intelligence on iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1

Apple has launched its new Apple Intelligence system, integrated into iPhone, iPad, and Mac through a free software update (iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, macOS Sequoia 15.1). Apple Intelligence aims to provide users with tools for writing, summarizing notifications, improving Siri, and cleaning up images, all with a focus on privacy. 

A Review of the Top 10 Best-Selling Lenses for Under $100

In this video, Arthur R buys the top 10 best-selling lenses on Amazon that cost under $100 and pits them against one another. So, if you're looking for something affordable to play with, perhaps this is exactly what you need! 

3 Gimbal Upgrades I Wish I Made Months Ago

For any videographer, getting your equipment setup just right is key to achieving smoother workflows and better-quality shots. Recently, I upgraded my gimbal setup with a few accessories that have made a significant impact on both my shooting experience and footage quality. Looking back, I wish I had invested in these upgrades much sooner.

 

Important Things to Look For When You Choose a Camera Bag

There is a bamboozling range of different camera bags on the market, and deciding which to buy is a veritable minefield. Here are some explanations of the various bags, their purposes, and what to look for when choosing yours. 

Canon EOS R5 Mark II Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II has been a highly anticipated update, and if you’re considering upgrading, there are a few things you should know. The original R5 set a high standard for image quality, but the Mark II promises some key improvements that might make it worth the jump, especially for those who shoot both photos and videos. 

How Good Is the New Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Action Camera?

If you're in the market for a new action camera for your behind-the-scenes work, or you know, actual action, the new Insta360 might be worth a look. So, in this video, see what it's capable of. 

Is the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 the Best Wide-Angle Zoom for Canon APS-C?

If you’re looking for a wide-angle zoom that delivers sharp images, fast performance, and durable construction, the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary might be worth a closer look. This lens aims to fill a gap in Canon’s APS-C lineup with impressive features for a variety of users.