Latest Gear Reviews

In depth expert reviews and comparisons of the latest cameras, lenses, software, and other technology we as creative professionals rely on.

We Review the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro Latest AI Tracker, Bringing AI Tracking to Any Phone Camera App

Earlier this year, Insta360 released its first AI-powered smartphone gimbal, packed with impressive features, including Deep Track 4.0, which offers advanced tracking capabilities. However, many of these advanced features were exclusive to iPhones, leaving a gap for Android users. Fortunately, Insta360 has addressed this with the release of its latest AI Tracker attachment for the highly popular Flow 2 Pro smartphone gimbal—an easy-to-use attachment that enables Android users to take full advantage of the gimbal’s advanced AI tracking algorithm.

I Sold My $4,000 Sony Camera for an a6700: Here’s Why

As a professional travel photographer, I’ve shot around the world with some of the best gear Sony has to offer, including the Sony a7R V and top-tier G Master lenses. But after years of carrying heavy full-frame setups and investing thousands into the latest gear, I made a decision that might seem crazy to some: I sold it all and switched to the Sony a6700, a crop-sensor camera.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1000: An Expandable Power Station for On-Location Shoots

For content creators, working on location often comes with an unpredictable challenge: where to get power. Whether you’re in the middle of a remote landscape, shooting an all-day event, or simply trying to keep your gear running without hunting for a plug, a portable power station can be a game-changer. The VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1000 is a high-capacity, fast-charging, and budget-friendly power solution designed to keep your cameras, drones, laptops, and lighting setups running anywhere.

We Review the Slimmest Fujifilm Autofocus Lens: The Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5

After making headlines for producing one of the slimmest full frame mirrorless autofocus lenses last year, Viltrox has made a bold move by making it available for the Fujifilm X-mount as well to fill a market gap. Introducing the Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 Fujifilm X-Mount, also known as a “chip” lens, resembling a potato chip—a reference to how thin the lens is. This Chinese lens maker even carries on the humor by featuring a bag of chips in the lens announcement poster, which was published on their Chinese social media.

Adidas SP0101: Solid Sunglasses for Active Photographers on the Go

As a professional photographer and newsprint journalist, I’m constantly searching for gear that enhances my work—and that includes more than just cameras and lenses. Sunglasses play a surprisingly important role in my day-to-day shooting, and I’ve found the Adidas SP0101 to be an excellent choice for active photographers. I have always loved the Adidas brand, especially the shoes, so I was very much on board with trying these out.

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

After four years, Canon released the EOS R5 Mark II. The second iteration of the successful EOS R5 has received many upgrades. Is it enough for existing EOS R5 owners to make the jump to this newer model? Being such a photographer, I had a look.

The Sexy OM-3: So Much More Than a Body to Die For

I recently wrote a review of the new OM-3 camera and said I would write more about its technical aspects. Here is a deeper dive into what it can do because there is so much more to it than its sleek body.

Meike 55mm f/1.8 Pro Review: Can a Budget Lens Carry a Pro Moniker?

When it comes to affordable prime lenses, Meike has been steadily refining its offerings. The new Meike 55mm f/1.8 Pro is the latest in their lineup, and it aims to challenge not only budget-friendly competitors like the Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 but even premium, older options like the Zeiss 55mm f/1.8. With an attractive price tag, competent autofocus capabilities, and image quality not often found in lenses at this price point, does it live up to the "Pro" designation?

My Field Review of the KEKS KF01 Flash

Photography gear is constantly evolving, redefining what it means to be “professional.” Once, carrying massive DSLRs and powerful flashes was the mark of a serious photographer—now, smaller, more efficient setups are taking over.

Briese Focus 77: My Favorite Light

I have been secretly switching lighting systems. In fact, I would struggle to pinpoint at which point my lights stopped being predominantly Profoto and became Briese. The point is, it happened, and I am not too sad about it. My light of choice has become the Briese Focus 77 reflector.

Freefly Ember S2.5K Slow-Motion Camera Review

I recently had the chance to use the Freefly Ember S2.5K, and at $25,000, this is hands down the most expensive camera I’ve ever worked with. But, surprisingly, for what it can do, I actually think it’s a bargain.

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.

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.

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.

My First Experience Using Hasselblad (X2D Review)

I've never had the highest opinion of Hasselblad. 10-15 years ago I saw two of them completely fail on set. I saw them struggle with autofocus even in a bright environment. I've seen my cheap DSLR take better-looking images in low light.