Recent Gear Articles
The Fujifilm X100VI: Does the Lens Resolve 40 Megapixels?
The jump from 26 to 40 megapixels in the Fujifilm X100VI sparked debate about whether the lens could keep up. This video tackles that question head-on, comparing the X100V and X100VI lenses to see how well they resolve detail and handle the demands of a high-resolution sensor.
A Humorous Look at a Ridiculous Lens
Capturing stunning wildlife and street photographs requires specific equipment, particularly when it comes to lenses. The choice of lens significantly impacts image quality, versatility, and the overall photographic experience. Nonetheless, there's probably a limit. This lens might be past that limit.
Made For Travelling And Vlogging? A Preview of Sony FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G
Sony released a rather odd lens a few days ago. The FE 16-25mm f/2.8 G is neither a replacement for the GMaster nor the cheaper f/4. It is its own odd thing. What is its purpose? Where does it fit in the lineup? Does purchasing it make sense? For some, it most definitely might. Not for all, though.
Beyond the Ordinary: Expanding Your Photography With Weird Lenses
For photographers seeking unique and creative avenues, exploring adapted lenses opens up a world of possibilities. This journey into adapted lenses can lead to surprising and unusual results and expand your creativity.
Canon Introduces Another Wild Idea
Canon has recently filed a patent application that has caught the attention of a few eagle-eyed photographers, as it could radically transform the ways in which we can use any lens.
The Sony a7R V: Top Image Quality in a World of Speed Demons
Choosing a new camera can be a daunting task, especially with the rapid advancements in technology and the wide range of options available. For photographers who prioritize image quality and advanced features, the Sony a7R V has remained a popular choice since its release. But is it still worth considering in 2024, with newer models on the horizon?
A Nostalgic Look at an Early Digital Camera
Early digital cameras, despite their limitations, were a marvel of their time, offering a glimpse into the future of image capture and paving the way for the advanced technology we enjoy today. This fun video takes a look back at one such camera.
This Camera Is an Absolute Beast for Video (and an Excellent Still Photography Camera Too)
Whether you’re shooting video, stills, or some combination, there’s a camera that offers incredible levels of excellence in both, and at a price point that’s hard to ignore. Watch it get put through its paces in a 4-week trip to South America, and see how it stacks up against the competition.
Review of the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS
A 300mm lens with an aperture of f/2.8 is a wonderful lens. But it’s often large and heavy, or so it used to be. Although the diameter of the lens is unchanged, Sony managed to keep the weight within acceptable limits. It makes the FE 300mm GM OSS a great tool to work with.
You Wish You Could Own This Lens
Capturing the perfect shot often requires a delicate balance between focal length, image quality, and portability. Finding a lens that excels in all three areas can feel like searching for a mythical creature. That's why lenses like these make us drool.
Going Back to a DSLR for Sports Photography for a Day
In 2019, I wrote about how I would never quit full-frame DSLRs. Back then, I complained about mirrorless cameras for wonky bodies and mediocre autofocus. Today, I’m eating crow.
The Fujifilm X100VI: A Photographer's Perspective
The allure of a new camera often lies in its technical specifications and the promise of enhanced capabilities. However, the true measure of a camera's value rests in its ability to seamlessly integrate into a photographer's individual approach and empower their creative vision. This exploration of the Fujifilm X100VI offers valuable insights into this nuanced relationship between photographer and tool.
The Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: A Budget Zoom Lens for FullFrame Cameras
Full frame cameras offer exceptional image quality and versatility, but their lenses can often be bulky and expensive. For photographers seeking a compact and affordable zoom lens option, the Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM provides a compelling solution. This lens is particularly well-suited for travel, street photography, and everyday shooting scenarios.
3 Practical Lessons Photographing Death Valley Helped Me Remember
On my most recent photography trip, I was reminded of some key landscape and travel photography lessons. In this article, I want to dive into how you can apply these to your next photography trip.
Canon's Smart Move With Sigma and Tamron Shakes Up the APS-C Lens Market
The recent introduction of new lenses for Canon's RF-S mount by third-party manufacturers Sigma and Tamron is a significant development for the industry. These lenses, all designed for APS-C format cameras, are a significant development that reveals Canon's strategic approach to its mirrorless camera lineup.
Can the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Do It All?
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR offers just about all the focal lengths a person could want in one package, making it an intriguing option for a wide range of users, particularly landscape and travel photographers. Can it deliver good results, though? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
Fstoppers Reviews the Goldenmate 1000VA Surge Protector Battery
As much as we love to talk about composition, lighting, and color, it's important to address the fundamental aspects of keeping your photography setup efficient and protected. No matter what you do, we all need one thing: reliable power. Power outages, voltage spikes, power surges, and other electrical disturbances can result in data loss or even worse, hardware damage. This is where the Goldenmate UPS 1000VA/800W Surge Protector Battery Power Backup comes in.
How Good Is This Ultra-Affordable Portrait Lens?
Portrait lenses are often quite expensive, with some easily running north of $2,000. That's why, at $168, the TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 is an intriguing option for Nikon Z, Sony E, and Fujifilm X APS-C users. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.
Canon's Most Important Cameras Inch Closer to Release
The excitement surrounding the imminent release of the Canon EOS R1 and R5 Mark II is palpable, with retailers gearing up and training sessions underway, meaning we're getting even closer to seeing the next generation of Canon powerhouses.
Decluttering Your Photography Kit: A Spring Clean for Your Gear and Career
A spring clean is a great way to evaluate your photography practice. Decluttering your photography gear can help you focus on what goals lie ahead. This article gives you top tips on what to keep and what to clear out.
My First Look at the Sony 16-25mm f/2.8 G Lens
Sony is going all in on their new line of compact gear with this amazing and affordable compact zoom.
Sony's All-in-One Wonder: We Review The 24-105mm f/4 OSS Lens
A few months back, I switched systems, mainly due to work-related requirements moving forward. The system I switched to was Sony, namely the a7R IV, so I needed a versatile lens to start with to allow me time to save for another lens after clearing out my bank account.
Why You Should Buy This Camera Instead
The Fuji X100VI has been riding shotgun on the hype train since its announcement. And while it's a good camera, this camera is better.
Is the Sony 16-25mm f/2.8 the Best Compact Lens for Travel?
Using Canon EF Lenses on Nikon Z Cameras
The ability to utilize a wide range of lenses is crucial for achieving creative vision and capturing diverse subjects. Lens choice impacts everything from focal length and depth of field to image stabilization and low-light performance. However, investing in a comprehensive lens collection, especially across different camera systems, can be a significant financial undertaking.
You've Been Lied To: Gear Matters!
You can find many articles online that state "Gear doesn't Matter." Some point out that constraints created by the limitations of your equipment force you to become more creative and present an opportunity for growth. And that's true. But the statement "Gear doesn't Matter" is not true.
How To Decide if a New Camera Is Right for You
With so many strong options in the market and so much noise surrounding each release, how do you know which camera system is right for you?
Budget Friendly and Impressive: We Review the Viltrox 20mm f/2.8 E Mount Lens
If you’re all about capturing those sweeping landscapes or immersive cityscapes, the Viltrox 20mm f/2.8 lens might just be your new best friend. Available in both E and Z mounts, this surprisingly inexpensive lens quietly snuck under the radar for a lot of people last year. Perhaps because of the price point at only $158, many didn’t consider it, thinking low price, low quality.
The Ultimate BTS Camera: We Review the Insta360 X4
I’m new to the 360 camera space, but after just a week or two with the new Insta360 X4, I can't see myself using my GoPro again. Ever.
RF vs EF Lenses: A Comprehensive Guide for Canon Photographers
Canon offers two primary lens options: the newer RF mount lenses and the older EF mount lenses. Understanding the differences and advantages of each system is essential for making informed decisions about your photography gear.
Megazoom Lens Showdown: Sony vs. Nikon vs. Canon
Selecting the ideal lens for wildlife photography can significantly impact your results, influencing image quality, reach, and overall shooting experience. Long zoom lenses, offering versatile focal lengths, have become increasingly popular among wildlife photographers due to their adaptability in capturing diverse subjects and scenarios.
Peak Design Just Upgraded Their Camera Straps: Welcome the New Coyote Range
Many photographers shun the supplied camera neck strap for one of the Peak Design models. The choice has just broadened with a new color and other small changes.
Budget-Friendly Bokeh: A Look at the TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 Lens
The pursuit of unique and captivating bokeh often leads enthusiasts down a path of expensive and specialized lenses. However, TTArtisan offers a refreshing alternative with their 100mm f/2.8 "Bubble Bokeh" lens, providing photographers with an affordable tool to explore creative expression through distinctive bokeh effects.
How To Print Your Photography at Home: The Basics
If it’s not on paper, it’s not a real photograph. You must’ve heard this sentence at least once in your photographic journey. For many, it rings true. The best way to appreciate our captures is to hold them on a physical paper. But how to best print at home? Which printer to get? How to use it?
Best Cameras and Lenses for Wildlife Photography, Without the Heavy Price Tag
Is This the Best Budget Full Frame Mirrorless Camera?
The Canon EOS R8 full frame mirrorless camera is on the cheap side of such cameras, and yet, it offers a nice feature set sure to please professionals and advanced hobbyists alike. Does it offer the right combination of cost and performance for you? This excellent video review will help you decide.
Another Wild Canon Lens Appears
The patent mill is churning once again, and this time, it's hinting at a potential earthquake in the world of ultra-wide-angle lenses. A recent Canon patent application has ignited speculation about a groundbreaking lens, a zoom lens that could redefine the possibilities for landscape, astrophotography, and architectural photographers.
The Viltrox AF 56mm f/1.7 Lens: A Budget-Friendly Option for Portrait Photographers
Portrait photography is a popular genre, but high-quality lenses can be expensive. However, the new Viltrox AF 56mm f/1.7 lens offers an affordable option for photographers looking to capture stunning portraits without breaking the bank.
How Did You Hack Together Your Eclipse Kit?
It's been a few days since a swath of the United States was engulfed by the solar eclipse. Internet traffic dropped drastically as everyone turned their (protected) eyes to the sky. And of course, photographers feverishly figured out how to photograph the dang thing without properly preparing. Well, most of us, anyway.
Why Should You Consider Getting a Camera With AI Subject Detection?
How much of a difference does AI-based subject detection make to your photography? The technology should increase our hit rate, but how much of a difference does it make?
Is the MacBook Air M3 the Best Laptop for Photographers?
Selecting the ideal laptop for photography isn't just about choosing a portable computer; it's about finding a versatile tool that enhances your artistic and processing capabilities without becoming a financial burden. This excellent video review takes a look at the MacBook Air M3 for photographers.
First Hands-On Look At New DJI Avata 2 FPV Drone
DJI, maker of the world's best consumer and professional camera drones, recently announced the brand new Avata 2 FPV drone. They were able to send me one to test out, and in this video, I ask the question: "is the Avada 2 worth upgrading from the original Avata drone?"
Review of the Sony a9 Mark III Without Focusing Too Much on the Global Shutter
When the Sony a9 Mark III is mentioned, it is all about the global shutter. While there is a benefit from this kind of sensor readout, the camera is much more than that. Although the global sensor needs to be mentioned, I want to look beyond that one single thing everyone seems to be obsessed about.
OWC Announces New CFExpress A Cards and External SSDs
OWC has announced a number of new storage products in advance of the NAB Show in Las Vegas. Their new products include industry-leading CFExpress Type A cards with support for the 4.0 standard, the new Envoy SSD for a compact external SSD with a USB-C interface, and new capacities for their Envoy Pro Elektron and Envoy Pro Mini SSDs.
The Sony 20-70mm f/4 Review: The Most Useful Midrange Zoom?
For both artistic and commercial work, a mid-range zoom is virtually an essential piece of kit. Sony’s 20-70mm f/4 puts a new spin on the traditional mid-range formula, but is it really that good? In this review, I look back on the last year of using this lens and consider whether it truly has a place in the E-mount ecosystem.
Is This the Toughest Focal Length for Landscape Photography?
Landscape photography generally embraces extremes of focal length, but somewhere in between is a middle zone that can be tremendously challenging.
The Power of Classic Digital Cameras
Diving into the archives reveals a compelling truth: older digital cameras, often dismissed in the race for megapixels and modern features, hold a lot of value for today's photographers. Here's why you shouldn't overlook them.
Prism Lens FX Filter Face-off: Lucid Dream FX Versus Moody FX Filters
I’ve been seeing Prism Lens FX filters everywhere and have been curious about what they're actually like to shoot with. There are so many interesting filters available that it’s hard to know which ones are worth the investment. So, here’s a comparison of the Lucid Dream FX Filter and the Moody FX Filter.
How Good Is This Extreme Medium Format Lens?
The TTArtisan 90mm f/1.25 is an extreme lens in both design and price, offering medium format users super-narrow depth of field at a rock-bottom price compared to other GFX and X mount lenses. This great video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.