Recent Gear Articles

Fujifilm’s Best Standard Zoom? A Look at the XF 16-55mm f/2.8 II

The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II lens is the brand’s new flagship standard zoom, offering a versatile focal range and bright aperture. If you need a workhorse lens for everything from landscapes to portraits, this could be worth a look.

What’s Missing From Your Trip? A Bag That Does More Than Hold Your Camera

When it comes to photography trips, I always make sure my dedicated camera bag is packed with everything I need to capture my next shot. My gear is safely stored, ready for quick action when the location and conditions allow. But something that often gets overlooked is the extra equipment—clothing, accessories, and other essentials for the journey.

A Tiny $99 Autofocus Lens: Is It Worth It?

The Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 XF lens is one of the most compact autofocus lenses you can get. It weighs next to nothing and turns your camera into something truly pocketable. But is it worth the $99 price tag? There are some trade-offs to consider, and some of them may be deal-breakers depending on how you shoot.

Why Telephoto Lenses Can Improve Your Landscape Photography

Wide angle lenses dominate landscape photography, but they aren’t the only option. Telephoto lenses offer a different perspective, bringing compression, depth, and new composition possibilities. They let you isolate details, enhance layers, and create a more immersive feel in vast environments.

SmallRig’s RC 220B Pro LED Video Light Reviewed: Smart Features and Flexibility

SmallRig has recently unveiled the RC 220B Pro LED Video Light, marking a significant evolution in its COB lighting lineup. Promising professional-grade performance in a lightweight, compact package, the RC 220B Pro is positioned to be the go-to light for video creators of all levels. I’ve had the opportunity to put it through its paces in real-world production environments to see how it stacks up.

The Best Standard Zoom Lens for Fuji X Mount

Not all standard zoom lenses are created equal, even when they cover similar focal ranges. Fuji has refreshed its lineup with two new lenses, while Sigma’s popular budget-friendly option remains in the mix. Whether you need the best sharpness, the fastest autofocus, or the most compact option, here's a good guide to what's best for your needs.

Tamron Patent Points to Exciting New Lens

Tamron may be eyeing an ambitious new lens: a 200–800mm ultra-telephoto zoom for mirrorless cameras. A recently published patent in Japan reveals optical designs for a Tamron 200-800mm f/6.7 lens, as well as a companion 200-600mm f/5.6 design​.

This Budget Camera Is So Bad, It’s Almost Impressive

The Andoer 18-megapixel digital camera is one of the cheapest cameras you can buy on Amazon, but is it even worth the 23 bucks? If you've ever wondered just how bad a budget camera can get—or if there’s any way to make it work—you’re in for a ride.

Canon Just Came Up With a Weird Idea for Lighter Lenses

Canon is looking into resin (plastic) lens elements as a way to make professional camera lenses lighter, according to a newly uncovered patent. The patent outlines designs for zoom lenses that use plastic optical elements to cut down on weight, potentially revolutionizing the build of heavy telephoto lenses.

Shifting From Photographer To Videographer: Where Do You Start?

You’ve been a photographer for many years, and you’re curious about making videos. After all, your camera likely has some amazing video capabilities. But moving to video is daunting; there’s so much more involved than still photography. Here are a few thoughts to help you get started.

Is Micro Four Thirds Still Worth It in 2025?

Some cameras are built for power, others for portability. Micro Four Thirds cameras aim to balance both, offering a lightweight system without sacrificing performance. But with full frame cameras becoming more affordable and APS-C sensors improving, is Micro Four Thirds still worth it?

Choosing the Right Aperture for Front-to-Back Sharpness in Landscape Photos

Picking the right aperture is a balancing act. Too wide, and you risk losing sharpness in the background. Too narrow, and diffraction can soften your entire image. Knowing how to find the right setting for maximum clarity can make a huge difference in your landscape photography.

Which Canon Supertelephoto Zoom Lens Is Right for You?

Choosing the right telephoto zoom lens can be a challenge, especially when balancing price, performance, and usability. If you're considering a Canon lens in the 100-500mm range, you have multiple options, each with its own strengths and trade-offs. Knowing which one best suits your needs is crucial.

10 Controversial Camera Brand Opinions (And Why I'm Right)

These opinions might ruffle feathers, but they're rooted in years of shooting, testing, and loving cameras of all shapes and sizes. From color science to craftsmanship, lens lore to mirrorless revolutions – nothing is off-limits. Disagree? Good. Fight me.

The Rare Canon Lens You’ve Never Heard Of

Canon has released many legendary lenses over the years, but some models remain obscure. One of the rarest is the EF 50-200mm f/3.5-4.5 L, an autofocus L-series lens from 1988. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone. It’s so rare that even finding information on it can be difficult, but that makes testing one all the more interesting.

Why Won’t Sony, Nikon or Canon Make This Camera?

Given that finding a Fuji X100VI is ultra rare and the Leica Q3 is reserved only for those with very deep pockets, surely there’s a gap in the market. None of the big three manufacturers seems interested, but why not?

Saramonic Ultra Mic Review: Can It Compete with DJI and Rode?

Last week, I received an email from Saramonic. They wanted to sponsor a video featuring their new Ultra Mic System. But unlike every sponsored video request I've ever gotten, they didn't want control over the video, they asked for a fair and honest review, comparing their product to two of the industry leaders: DJI and Rode.

Fujifilm’s New 16-55mm Lens: Lighter, Faster, Better?

Fujifilm’s XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II lens updates one of the most popular zoom lenses in the X-mount lineup. With its versatile focal range, constant f/2.8 aperture, and improved design, it’s built for those who need flexibility without sacrificing image quality. The big question: is it worth upgrading if you already own the original?