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.

A Photographer's Quest for The Elusive Dream Camera

The perfect camera is a subjective concept, as each photographer has unique needs and preferences. What works for one photographer may not work for another, making the search for the "perfect camera" a personal journey. 

How Good Is This Ultra-Affordable Tilt-Shift Lens?

Tilt-shift lenses are a powerful tool for photographers, offering control over perspective and depth of field for creative and technical applications. However, professional tilt-shift lenses are often prohibitively expensive, which makes this lens an intriguing option. 

Don't Fall for the Shallow Depth of Field Trap

Depth of field is a fundamental concept that can dramatically impact the quality and storytelling of your images. It's not just about blurring the background; it's about thoughtfully controlling what elements are in focus and how they relate to each other within the frame.  

The Case for DSLRs in a Mirrorless World 

DSLRs offer photographers numerous advantages in 2024, and the availability of high-quality DSLRs at affordable prices, coupled with a vast selection of lenses, makes them an attractive option for photographers seeking exceptional value. 

Looking Into the Possibilities for Using an External Screen for Photography

An external recorder can be a good choice for video. Such a recorder has no use for photography, but it can function as an external screen. Since you don’t need the recording option, there are some affordable possibilities as well. Perhaps an external screen can be of benefit for your photography? 

7 Hidden Features in the Fujifilm X100VI

The new Fujifilm X100VI is going to be a best-seller, that's for sure. But despite how popular modern cameras can become, there are still plenty of features that aren't common knowledge, and the X100VI is no exception. 

All the Power You Need: We Review the Mango Power E

We've already reviewed several power stations that allow you to power your gear on the road or even your office at home. The solar generator we show you today goes beyond that. The Mango Power E has sufficient power and capacity for energy-hungry studios and demanding productions. 

Viltrox's Budget-Friendly Ultrawide Lens Delivers Impressive Performance

Viltrox has stepped up to the plate with their affordable AF 16mm f/1.8 autofocus lens, now available for Nikon Z and Sony E mount cameras. This full-frame lens offers a compelling combination of features, making it an attractive option for a variety of photographic applications. 

The Future of Technology and the Art of Photography

As technology in photography continues to evolve at a rapid pace, many photographers find themselves grappling with the implications of these advancements. While some embrace the new tools and possibilities, others express concerns about the potential impact on the art form itself.  

We Review the PanoX V2: Capable, but Is It Competitive?

I’ve often said there’s not a bad camera on the market today. At this point, that logic is starting to apply to 360 cameras as well. Though there are no bad cameras — and the PanoX V2 is included in that — there are also cameras that may be more worth your hard-earned money. 

The Fujifilm X100VI: Is It Worth Hype?**

The Fujifilm X100 series has garnered a cult following, and the X100VI is the latest iteration to capture the hearts of photography enthusiasts. But is it all hype, or does this camera truly live up to its reputation? 

Apple Unveils New iPad Air: More Power, More Versatility, More Choices

Apple has just announced a significant update to its popular iPad Air line, introducing a redesigned 11-inch model and an all-new 13-inch option. This marks the first time the iPad Air is available in two sizes, catering to users who prefer a more portable device and those who desire a larger canvas for work and creativity.

Apple Unveils M4 Chip: Powering the Next Generation of iPad Pro

Apple has introduced their latest Silicon, the M4 chip. This powerful system-on-a-chip (SoC) is set to debut in the newly redesigned iPad Pro, promising a significant leap in performance and capabilities. Built using a cutting-edge 3-nanometer process, the M4 chip boasts impressive power efficiency while delivering remarkable speed and functionality. 

A Deep Dive into the Leica M11 Monochrom

Truly harnessing the power of monochrome requires intention and a deep understanding of light and shadow. The Leica M11 Monochrom, a dedicated black and white camera, presents a compelling option for photographers seeking to explore this art form, albeit at a very high price. Is it worth that cost? 

The Battle of the Travel Cameras in Paris

The title of this article sounds like the nichest of films — albeit one I'd gladly watch — but it's actually the premise of a photographer who took some of the best travel cameras money can buy on a trip to pit them against one another. 

In this video, Benj Haisch, a photographer and YouTuber, takes four excellent travel cameras with him on a trip to Paris to compare them.

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.  

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. 

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.

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.

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 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. 

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.