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.

Is the Fuji X-T50 Worth the Upgrade?

Fuji’s X-T10 series has always been a favorite for its compact size, classic aesthetic, and affordability. Now, the X-T50 is here, bringing with it advanced technology from the more expensive X-T5, including a 40 MP sensor and in-body stabilization. 

Old vs. New: Is Expensive Gear Worth It?

Deciding whether to upgrade your camera equipment can be challenging. Seeing a side-by-side comparison of an older DSLR and a high-end mirrorless camera can provide valuable insights. 

Exploring the Grand Canyon With the OM System OM-1 Mark II

The OM System OM-1 Mark II offers a compact solution with powerful capabilities, perfect for your next adventure. Discover how this lightweight camera handles the stunning vistas of the Grand Canyon and why it might be the option you need. 

Is the Sigma fp L the Right Camera for You?

The smallest full-frame interchangeable lens camera currently available is the Sigma fp L. It has a 60-megapixel sensor, broad L-mount lens options, and excellent video capabilities, making it quite an intriguing option. 

Review of the Haida Bluestone and Premium Brass UV-Filters

Haida introduced two brand-new UV filters: the Bluestone UV filter and the Premium Brass UV filter. These filters boast high light transmission, a multi-layered coating, and substantial protection thanks to the shock-proof Schott B270 glass. I was asked to review both filters. 

Making Movies With a $9 Video Camera

A while back, I tested Amazon's cheapest non-kid camera, a $20 piece of junk that was sold under various scammy names on the online retailer's site. Lowering the bar in ways I didn't think was possible, one filmmaker has decided to challenge himself by using the cheapest camera on the site to make a short film, and this time, it is actually a kids' camera. 

DwarfLab Announces New Dwarf 3 Smart Telescope

Following the success of the very popular Dwarf II Telescope, DwarfLabs has announced the brand-new and upgraded Dwarf 3 Smart Telescope. This compact and portable telescope is very exciting and is currently set to ship this September. 

Canon EOS R1: Is It Worth the Upgrade from the R3?

Canon recently released the EOS R1, their flagship RF mount camera. This camera is particularly exciting for sports and wildlife photography. With the previous release of the R3, photographers may wonder how the R1 stacks up and which camera to choose for high-end, fast-moving subjects. 

Fujifilm GFX100S II: A Portrait Photographer's Dream Camera

I spent two weeks shooting with the new Fujifilm GFX 100S II, along with the GF 55mm f/1.7R WR and GF 45-100mm f/4 R LM OIS WR lenses. I used this configuration for a number of portrait shoots at my studio and on location, including a portrait shoot with jazz legend Ron Carter. The results were impressive.

 

Discover the Leica 28mm Summicron: A $5,000 Lens Review

For many photographers, the cost of such premium glass raises questions about its value and practicality. These concerns are addressed head-on in this review, sharing insights and experiences with this high-end lens. 

Discover the Versatility of the Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 Lens

Finding the right lens for your wedding films or commercial videos can make all the difference in achieving the best quality. One new lens promises excellent low-light performance and internal zoom, making it ideal for gimbal work. 

Unlock Better Portraits With This Must-Have Lens

Portrait photography requires the right tools and techniques. One lens stands out for its exceptional performance and versatility, making it a top choice for capturing stunning images. 

Essential Gear for Beginner Photographers

Starting out in photography can feel overwhelming with all the gear options. You might think you need a lot, but actually, there are only a few essentials you'll use throughout your entire career. Here’s a look at what you really need when you're beginning your photography journey. 

Why the Hasselblad 907X and CVF 100C Is the Ultimate Camera for 2024

It's been a long time that I wanted to review a camera so badly. However, when I saw the Hasselblad CVF100C back, I couldn't be more excited. Is there something better than a 100 MP medium format back? How miraculously good can a camera costing $8,000 even be? Well, suffice it to say that it is one of the best medium format cameras available. 

The Razer USB-C Dock Will Improve Your Home Office Workspace

A dock for your computer can really level up your home workspace and make it even more efficient and productive. I look at the new Razer USB-C Dock and how it has performed under heavy usage for the past month. Can it improve your home workspace? 

A Review of the New Canon EOS R5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II is here, it brings features like new built-in Digital IS stabilization, 8K 60 fps raw recording, in-camera VR preview, and advanced machine learning noise reduction. Here's how it performs in practice. 

Is the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Worth the Price Hike?

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is here, and it comes with a price increase, making it one of the most expensive phones on the market. With a price tag of $1,899, is it worth the investment? 

Affordable Full Frame Lenses for 2024

With full frame cameras becoming more affordable, many users are looking for lenses to match. Here's a rundown of some great options. 

This Camera was a Lot of Fun!

The recent resurrection of film and instant film cameras never really interested me until a few months ago. I love shooting digital, mostly because I can just keep going until my heart is content, but that was until I discovered this gem of an instant film camera. 

The Best Cheap Lens Canon Makes

Capturing high-quality images without breaking the bank is a common goal for many photographers. Here's a budget treasure from Canon. 

Nikon 35mm Lens Showdown: f/1.4 vs. f/1.8

Wondering if you should spend extra on the 35mm f/1.8 S prime lens over the new 35mm f/1.4? This helpful video breaks down their features and performance to see if the upgrade is worth it. 

A Review of the new Fujifilm GFX 100 II

Medium format cameras were once gated behind enormous price tags, unjustifiable by most, but also unnecessary to most. Then, in the past decade or so, they have been made more accessible, in large part by Fujifilm. This is their latest addition to the GFX range. 

Power Up Your Photography: Hahnel Pro Cube 2 Charger Review

Scouring your camera bag, you have all your most important gear: cameras, lenses, memory cards, and batteries. With the adoption of mirrorless cameras by many photographers, we have also adopted more batteries. When my primary camera was a Nikon D850, I could shoot roughly 1,800 photographs on a charge.

Why Pros Use 85mm Lenses for Portrait Photos

The 85mm lens is a favorite among portrait photographers for a good reason. It's versatile, provides excellent subject isolation, and offers natural-looking results even at close distances. In this video, you’ll learn why the 85mm should be part of your gear, regardless of whether you're a professional or an enthusiast. 

The Benefits of 645 Film Photography

The 645 film format is sometimes overlooked, but it offers a practical middle ground between 35mm and 6x7 medium format. You get more shots per roll of 120 film and maintain high resolution, making it ideal for various photography adventures. 

Real World M3 Pro MacBook Pro 14” Review: Small Size, Big Power

After about five years of using an Intel MacBook Pro, I made the jump to the M-Series. I bought the M3 Pro MacBook Pro 14” edition. While a downgrade in screen size, it was a huge upgrade pretty much everywhere else. In this article, we will review the new M3 MacBook Pro. 

The Truth About Gear: When It Matters in Photography

The debate over whether gear matters in photography is common. You've likely heard that gear doesn't make you a better photographer, but it's not entirely true. Sometimes, the right gear can significantly impact your work. 

Is This Transforming Tetris Camera Bag the Solution You Never Knew You Needed?

In all your years of photography, have your camera bags been mostly the same, with slight variations? Most likely black and rectangular. Inside, they likely had padded dividers and smaller zipper compartments. The good ones had a slot for a laptop. Some may have had slight variations: if you had a Pelican case, it was a hard shell. If you had other brands, it was made of sturdy fabric.

How the Nikon Z6 Mark III Stands Out in the Market

Nikon, a longtime leader in the DSLR world, struggled initially with mirrorless cameras. Now, Nikon's Z line, particularly the Z6 Mark III, competes strongly against Sony, Canon, and Fujifilm. 

Exploring the Versatility of the M4 iPad Pro

The M4 iPad Pro is a powerful piece of tech that has captured the attention of many, thanks to its impressive features and capabilities. Can it be your main computer? This great video takes a look after two runs of usage. 

Real-Time MLS Soccer Coverage With the Sony a9 III and PDT-FP1

Get an inside look at what it takes to cover an MLS soccer match at the Seattle Sounders, featuring Sony's flagship a9 III global shutter full frame mirrorless camera, and the PDT-FP1, an all-new portable data transmitter for creators. 

Which Nikon 35mm Lens is Right for You?

The Nikon 35mm f/1.4 and 35mm f/1.8 lenses are both excellent, offering different advantages depending on your needs. Here's which one to pick for your bag. 

Pergear Launches Their 256 GB CFexpress Type A Card: Does Budget and Type A Make Sense?

For Sony shooters, most modern bodies offer a choice: inexpensive SD cards or the pricier Type A cards that offer far higher performance. Pergear’s latest Type A card is designed to offer much of the performance of the Type A form factor, but at a more budget-friendly price per GB. In this review, I’ll test out the 256 GB model to see if it really delivers on the value promised. 

Which Nikon Z Camera Should I Buy?

I must admit, I’m out of the loop when it comes to the latest Nikon Z bodies. I shot with Nikon cameras almost exclusively from 2005 to 2014, but then I sold all my kit and switched to Fujifilm. Ten years later, I’m mulling a return to Nikon, but which camera should I buy?