YouTube Screenshot / 9 to 5 Mac

A lot of photographers - myself included - use Macs as their primary computers. A lot of filmmakers do as well.

That's why it was so exciting to see the release of Apple's newest Macbook Pro (and Macbook Air and Mac Mini) with the new M1 chip from Apple's own silicon.

It's a huge shift for Apple, and the question when the move was announced was this: would the new Apple M1 chip be any good?

Well, as you can see in the video above from 9 to 5 Mac, first impressions are very good.

To say that the new Macbooks' performance is turning heads is an understatement.

In the video, the Macbook Air and Macbook Pro are given a good, long look. 

And as the folks at 9 to 5 Mac note, the performance is excellent in addition to battery life being quite good as well. There is good application compatibility and prices that won't make you sweat, either.

^{YouTube Screenshot / 9 to 5 Mac}

For now, the M1 chip is only available in the aforementioned Mac Mini, Macbook Air (shown above), and Macbook Pro (13.3-inch model), though support for the chip is destined to find its way into Apple's larger laptops as well.

Here's some of the highlights of these laptops:

• Instant On
• No Fan
• Retina Display with P3 color
• Faster SSD
• Wi-Fi 6

And that's just scratching the surface...

If you're thinking about upgrading to the new Macs with an M1 chip, do yourself a favor and check out the video above. Trust me - you'll be even more excited to buy one after you see the performance upgrades!

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^{Photo by evgenyatamanenko via iStock}

There are plenty of obvious things you need to invest in as a photographer, like a good camera body, solid lenses, a tripod, and so forth.

But there are plenty of other items you should add to your list of things to get if you want to streamline your workflow and make the most of the images you take.

Specifically, you need a good office setup with a capable computer, a monitor that allows you to multitask without hurting your eyes, various backup storage options, and so forth.

I've been at this a long time and have tested all kinds of office gear along the way. Here are just a few of my recommendations for the best items photographers need to invest in.

A Good Computer

The brains of your operation (other than you, of course!) is your computer. As such, it needs to be as high-powered a unit as you can afford. After all, processing images and videos takes a lot of juice, and your old Chromebook simply won't cut it.

And for my tastes, a high-powered laptop is the way to go, that way you can bring your workstation with you on the road.

If you're a Mac person, I highly recommend the 16-inch Macbook Pro.

I have the 2.4GHz 8-Core Intel Core i9 version with 64GB of RAM. It also has a Radeon Pro 5500M 8GB Intel UHD video card, which is the best Apple offers at this point. It's not the greatest video card of all time, but so far, it's gotten the job done just fine.

I've been a Mac user for a long time, and this is the latest in a long line of Macbook Pros that I've had. It has proven to be the most capable of the bunch and offers me the speed, dependability, and portability that I want.

On the other hand, if you're a PC person, the Razer Blade 15 Studio is tough to beat.

This computer is designed for gaming, but I've found it to be a perfect addition to my home office to tackle hard-core video processing tasks with ease.

This particular model has a 6-core Intel i9 processor with 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage.

But the eye-popping spec on this laptop is the NVIDIA Quadro 5000 GPU...

This graphics card is one of the best money can buy - it's like Hollywood-level stuff!

If your business includes a lot of video work, I highly recommend that you take a long, hard look at this machine.

I've been a PC skeptic for a long time because I could never find the one PC laptop that could do everything I needed it to do...until this thing!

A Boost for Your Graphics Card

If you already have a laptop that you love but that's lacking in the graphics card department, you might consider investing in the Razer Core X Chroma eGPU.

This bad boy helps put a supercharge into your laptop's video card, that way you get a true desktop-grade video experience.

It comes with plug-and-play support for a wide range of graphics cards on PCs and Macs.

Though this gadget is intended to give gaming systems a power boost, I've found it to be incredibly helpful for my video editing work.

A Better Display

When I first started in this business I had a Macbook Pro 13-inch laptop. I didn't use a Bluetooth keyboard. I didn't have a mouse. I didn't have an external monitor, either.

That plain Jane setup was all I could afford back then, but it certainly wasn't ideal for my workflow. My how a decade (and change) has improved my workspace!

For the longest time, I had HP and LG displays, and I thought they were awesome. They were awesome, but now that I'm rocking the display setup you see above, those old displays of mine seem so old and quaint.

These ViewSonic displays (the 38-inch VP3881 on the bottom and the 34-inch VP3481 on the top) have been total game changers. 

Not only do they both offer me all the real estate I need to have split screens and multiple windows open at the same time, but they also have an incredibly sharp display with the most accurate colors I've ever seen on a monitor.

Add in a curved, immersive display, built-in speakers, and the ability to split screens, tile screens, and have multiple views open on both screens, and you have the makings of the ideal display setup for photo and video work.

Learn More:

• Top 5 PC Laptops
• Productivity Tips to Jumpstart Your Success

Backup Storage Options

It goes without saying that you need backup storage options for all your work. And not just one option, either.

I have multiple backups that are part of my workflow, each with a slightly different role.

The big boy, if you will, is my Synology DiskStation DS918+ network attached storage (NAS). This thing has a quad-core Intel Celeron J3455 processor at 1.5GHz, four hot-swappable bays, encrypted file transmission, and is incredibly easy to set up. The Synology operating system is intuitive and easy to use as well. For my money, there is no better NAS.

I also have the G-DRIVE 10TB USB-C external hard drive on my desk.

It offers ultra-high-speed data transfers and allows for daisy-chaining for up to five additional devices.

The enterprise-class 7200 RPM hard drive is both fast and reliable, and it's Apple Time Machine compatible. The aluminum case is durable and looks pretty badass too!

A third backup storage device I use on the daily is the SanDisk 2TB SSD drive shown above.

This little guy works with my Macbook Pro and my Razer PC and is built like a tank. When I need to work on the road, this is the device I bring with me because it is small, lightweight, and easy to transport. It's a reliable backup too!

A Desk & Chair That Promote Better Health

Photographers do a lot of sitting at their desks, and I for one can't stand to sit for all that long. That's why I invested in an iMovR Lander standing desk.

This desk is beautifully made and hugely functional - it takes just seconds to move the desk from a sitting to a standing height using the onboard paddles or the accompanying smartphone app.

I spend a lot of my day standing now, and my neck, shoulders, and back are the better for it!

Plus, these desks are super durable, well-made, and stand up to the rigors of my daily grind (and having my young son in my office banging his toys around on the desktop).

When I'm seated, I sit on a Herman Miller Embody desk chair that offers tons of support and provides the ultimate in comfort.

This is actually the second Embody chair I've had over the last 10 years, and I will never go back to having a more traditional desk chair. This thing is expensive, but it is worth every penny as the hours of editing photos and videos drag on!

Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro

As I explain in my video above, I always saw my iPads as more of a novelty or entertainment device than a device I could use for work.

That all changed when I picked up an Apple Magic Keyboard for my iPad Pro.

With this keyboard, my iPad is now a much more functional and useful device for getting work tasks done. It absolutely blows away all the previous iPad keyboards I've tried over the years. It has been one of my favorite additions to my office gear this year - it's that good!

Learn More:

• How to Set Up a Photography Portfolio
• How to Set Up a Photography Business

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^{Photo by Andras Vas on Unsplash} 

Best Laptop for Photo Editing

Finding a quality laptop is one of the many challenges photographers have when starting or learning to maintain a photography business.

They change so rapidly, and it can be difficult to keep up with information on the brand-new best laptop for photo editing, considering there’s a brand-new best laptop for photo editing every few months!

Plus, even just mentioning laptops for photo editing in the wrong circle can send anxiety through the whole group. Professional laptops are expensive and beginner photographers are usually just above their bottom line in their business.  

So, from the best budget laptop for Photoshop to the best professional-grade, professionally-priced photo editing laptop, here is our comprehensive list of laptops you need to know about in 2019. 

Table of Contents

• Best Laptops for Photo Editing: Must-Have Features
• Best Budget Laptop for PhotoShop: Acer Aspire EUX331UA-AS51 Ultrabook
• Most Versatile Laptop for Photo Editing: Microsoft Surface Pro 6
• Best Mid-Range Laptop for Photo Editing: Asus ZenBook UX331UA-AS51 Ultrabook
• Best Laptop for Photo Editing Under $1,000: Dell G5
• Best Value Laptop for Photo Editing: ASUS VivoBook Pro 4K Laptop
• Best Windows Laptop for Photo Editing: HP Spectre x360
• Best Professional Laptop for Photo Editing: Microsoft Surface Book 2
• Best All-Around Laptop for Photo Editing: Dell XPS 15
• Best Big-Screen Laptop for Photo Editing: LG Gram 17
• Best Apple Laptop for Photo Editing: Macbook Pro 15"

Best Laptops for Photo Editing: Must-Have Features

While I don’t agree with all of Ben G Kaiser’s recommendations for best laptops for photo editing, I do completely agree with his criteria for picking the best laptop for photo editing.

In your search for a photo editing laptop, keep these must-have features in mind:

• Intel i5 or i7 Processor
• A minimum of 256GB of storage
• Full HD resolution display
• At least 2GB of dedicated graphics
• 8GB of RAM or more 

Both the Intel i5 and i7 processors are powerful enough to run Photoshop without any problems. And the more money you spend up front on a good CPU, the less money you will need to spend down the line with upgrades. Read more about the best photoshop alternatives on our website PhotographyTalk.com.

All of my recommendations for 2019’s best laptop for photo editing also have at least 256GB of storage. You’re going to need somewhere for all of your beautifully edited photos to go and since your average DSLR produces individual pictures with 15MB of data, your average laptop will fill up pretty quickly.

I also recommend a full HD resolution display because you want your color accuracy to be as close as possible to how you took your photos and how you’ll print your photos (P.S., full HD resolution is 1920 x 1080).

Finally, remember the old days when you needed a dedicated graphics card? Well, this is 2019 and 2019’s best laptop for photo editing already has integrated graphics that can handle your high-res photos without any problems. It’s great, but this new technology doesn’t do you any good if you don’t go shopping with this specific requirement in mind. 

Best Budget Laptop for PhotoShop: Acer Aspire EUX331UA-AS51 Ultrabook

I love me a laptop that is under $600, which this Acer Aspire is. 

I also love me a laptop that is under budget and over battery-life expectations. This Acer has a 15-hour battery life, which is perfect for a beginning photographer who may or may not be editing photos on and off between other jobs or classes for extended periods of time away from home.

For me, in order for a laptop to be the best laptop for photo editing, it needs to have the battery life (which this one does) and the graphics (which this one does).

It has Nvidia GeForce MX150 graphics with 2GB of DDR5 memory. Plus, it looks like a much more expensive laptop despite the fact it is really made out of polycarbonate plastic. 

Acer Aspire EUX331UA-AS51 Ultrabook Specs:

• 5.27 lbs
• 15-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit
• 15.6-inch full HD ComfyView LED Display
• 256GB SSD storage
• 8GB RAM
• Intel Core i5-8250OU Quad Core 1.6GHz Processor

Most Versatile Laptop for Photo Editing: Microsoft Surface Pro 6

I have stuck by the Microsoft Surface Pros since practically the first edition, and I think it’s because I saw what Microsoft was trying to do: create the most versatile version of their product as possible. With this laptop, they’ve done it.

I own a Microsoft Surface Pro 6 and I bought it specifically because I travel quite frequently for work. I want something I can throw in my backpack and whip around on a plane, train or automobile.

It’s screen is small, though, so I don’t recommend it as your only photo editing laptop. 

Otherwise, I think I may well have named this laptop my overall best laptop for photo editing. 

This laptop runs Windows 10 out of the box and it lasts 13 hours on a single charge. It also has all the good features, like 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. 

Plus, if you really need it, you can buy an upgraded version which runs on an i7 processor as opposed to my i5, and comes with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. 

Microsoft Surface Pro 6 Specs:

• 1.7 lbs
• 13-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit
• 12.3-inch PixelSense 10 Point Multi-Touch display
• 256GB SSD storage
• 8GB RAM
• Intel Core i5-8250U processor

Best Mid-Range Laptop for Photo Editing: Asus ZenBook UX331UA-AS51 Ultrabook

 

If you went to school for photography or graphic design, then you know about ASUS’s ZenBook series. I dropped my ASUS so many times I stopped counting and the thing just did not break. 

But, other than it’s awesome build, these laptops also perform with the big boys, despite being under $1,000.

It’s ultra-slim and lightweight, which I appreciate because I’m always on the go. But, it doesn’t lose out on any important qualities. It’s got 178 degree viewing angles and a 13.3-inch full HD display. 

Plus, it has a fingerprint sensor and audio by Harman Kardon, which means this would be a phenomenal laptop for videographers or anyone who is online frequently.

This is definitely my pick for 2019’s best laptop for photo editing under $1,000. 

Acer Aspire EUX331UA-AS51 Ultrabook Specs:

• 2.5 lbs
• 12-hour battery life
• Windows 10 64-bit operating system
• 13.3-Inch Full HD Display
• 256GB SSD storage
• 8GB Ram
• 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8250U 1.6GHz Quad-Core Processor

Best Laptop for Photo Editing Under $1,000: Dell G5

Okay, okay I know I technically already named a “best laptop for photo editing under $1,000,” but Dell’s G5 is a serious contenderwith the Asus ZenBook.

But, Dell’s G5 works in the absolute opposite way. While the Asus ZenBook can really only handle light to medium photo editing, the Dell G5 can handle intense photo editing, it just can’t do it as beautifully.

The display on this Dell isn’t incredibly bright or colorful, but don’t judge a book by its cover.

This laptop is our best laptop for photo editing under $1,000 because of its incredibly powerful hardware. 

It’s got the newest Intel Core i5 processor. It’s got serious, serious storage capabilities and it features Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 Max-Q GPU with 6GB of DDR5 graphics memory.  

All of these hardware pluses aside, it’s probably my favorite laptop for photo editing because of the way its keyboard is arranged. All of the keys are spread out and you get a huge trackpack which allows you to easily edit from anywhere (even a packed subway car). 

Dell G5 Specs:

• 6.2 lbs
• 6-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit operating system
• 15.6-inch full HD IPS Anti-Glare LED Display
• 1TB RPM hard drive and 128GB SSD storage
• 8GB RAM
• Intel Core i5-8300H 2.3GHz Quad-Core Processor

Best Value Laptop for Photo Editing: ASUS VivoBook Pro 4K Laptop

If I’m ever Googling “best laptop for photo editing,” you can bet I’ve added the words “best value” or “budget” into that search. 

I find people oftentimes spend more money than they need to on their photo editing laptops because they don’t put the proper research into their shopping process.

This ASUS VivoBook is getting my much-coveted “best value” laptop for photo editing award because of a few things, but mainly its 4K display and its price tag.

4K displays are hard to come by at under $1,000. 

This laptop also features a beautiful touchscreen display. I’ve been in multiple debates about whether a touchscreen display is worth the added price, but with this laptop you’re already getting a 4K display so I don’t feel like I’m being charged anything extra for the touchscreen display.

ASUS VivoBook Pro 4K Specs:

• 5.1 lbs
• 6-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit
• 15.6-Inch 4K IPS Touchscreen display
• 1TB HDD and 256 SSD storage
• 16GB RAM
• Intel Core i7-7700HQ Quad-Core 2.8 GHz processor

Best Windows Laptop for Photo Editing: HP Spectre x360

If you thought I wasn’t going to specify a Windows laptop to win a best laptop for photo editing award, you were dead wrong.

This laptop is also pretty great because it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than my Apple-specific award, but performs in essentially the same way as long as you weren’t indoctrinated into Apple too early on in your career. 

This laptop was just released this year and is already marked down nearly $200 from its original price,as well. 

It’s got 256GB of SSD for storage and 8GB of RAM, but what truly sets this laptop apart from the rest of the “best laptops for photo editing,” is it's brand new six-core Intel i7 processor with turbo clock frequency at up to 4.1 GHz and its incredibly gorgeous 4K IPS display.  

It also covers 157% of the sRGB color gamut. No other laptop on this list has this type of photo editing capabilities. 

HP Spectre x360 Specs:

• 4.8 lbs
• 9-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit operating system
• 15.6-inch 4K touchscreen display
• 256GB SSD storage
• 8GB RAM
• Intel Core i7-8750H 2.2GHz processor

Learn More:

• How to edit photos
• Lightroom vs Photoshop
  

Best Professional Laptop for Photo Editing: Microsoft Surface Book 2

This Microsoft Surface Book 2This Microsoft Surface Book 2 is my best laptop for photo editing for professionals because of the price tag ($1,499 for all of the specs list, although you can upgrade to larger storage, larger RAM, and a better processor). 

I always appreciate a detachable laptop, which can also function as a tablet, especially when I can almost custom-build it. The basic Microsoft Surface Book 2 comes with a 13.5-inch touchscreen, which you can upgrade, 256GB of storage, which you can upgrade, 8GB of RAM, which you can upgrade, and the newest Gen Intel Core i5 processor, which you can upgrade.

The best part of this laptop for photo editing is the Surface Pen. If you’re one of those photo editors who started in art and enjoys the old-fashioned feeling of pen-on-paper, this is a great feature for you.

Microsoft Surface Book 2 Specs:

• 3.38 lbs
• 17-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Pro Creators Update 64-bit operating system
• 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display
• 256GB SSD storage
• 8GB RAM
• Intel Core i5-8350U Quad-Core Processor

Best All-Around Laptop for Photo Editing: Dell XPS 15

I personally believe that Dell never receives its due on best laptops for photo editing lists. 

If I had to pick one best laptop for photo editing on my list, this would be it. However, I understand that not everyone can afford the $1,619 price tag. 

This laptop comes with a crazy good amount of storage (512GB) and the newest 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor to run all of your best photo editing software.

The 4K display is gorgeous, bright and crisp and covers 100% of Adobe’s sRGB color spectrum. Read more about the best monitor for photo editing on our website PhotographyTalk.com.

It also has 16GB of RAM, so you can do multiple things at once without any shift in speed.  

The only disappointing aspect of this laptop is that it only has a 9-hour battery life, but with all of its capabilities, this doesn’t shock me.

Dell XPS 15 Specs:

• 4.5 lbs
• 9-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit operating system
• 16.6-inch 4K Ultra HD InfinityEdge touchscreen display
• 512GB storage
• 16GB RAM
• Intel Core i7-8750H 8th Generation Hexa-Core processor

Best Big-Screen Laptop for Photo Editing: LG Gram 17

If you’re one of those people who almost can’t stand editing photos on a laptop, then this is the best laptop for photo editing for you.

It’s huge, with a 17-inch screen. It’s also the world’s lightest 17-inch laptop. 

It also features a crazy good amount of storage (512GB SSD) and 16GB of RAM.  

The only downside to this laptop is that it isn’t for those who are editing videos frequently.

LG Gram 17 Specs:

• 2.9 lbs
• 11-hour battery life
• Windows 10 Home 64-bit operating system
• 17-inch IPS WQXGA display
• 512GB SSD storage
• 16GB RAM
• Intel Core i7-8565U Quad Core 1.8 GHz processor

Best Apple Laptop for Photo Editing: Macbook Pro 15"

If you went to university for photography and didn’t own a Macbook you probably felt extremely left out.

Apple has a total monopoly on the graphic design and photography industries, and for good reason. Apple laptops basically manhandle high-end graphics tools. 

This, however, is my vote for Apple’s best laptop for photo editing.It features a True Tone Retina display with 2880 x 1800 resolution. It’s powered by the newest Intel Core i7 processor and features 16GB of RAM (yes, please).  

If I set out to create the best laptop for photo editing, the only way I could create a better one than this Macbook is by adding some ports that aren’t Thunderbolt USB Type-C. I mean, come on, Apple, you know one of your biggest markets is photographers. 

 

Macbook Pro 15” Specs:

• 4.02 lbs
• 10-hour battery life
• macOS Mojave operating system
• 15.4-inch True Tone Retina display
• 256GB SSD storage
• 16GB RAM
• Intel Core i7 Six Core 2.2GHz Processor

 

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^{Photo by AsiaVision via iStock}

This list of gifts for photographers under $2,500 is chock-full of awesome ideas - and not just because of the price point!

Sure, $2,500 can get you some pretty fantastic gifts. Still, the ideas listed below are also well-made, offer loads of functionality, and represent some of the best the photography industry has to offer in 2023.

So, without further ado, let's get into this list of the top holiday gift ideas for photographers!

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Hobolite Pro

If you’re shopping for a photographer or videographer who needs a serious lighting upgrade for their work, look no further than the Hobolite Pro. Not only does the Hobolite Pro offer 300W of output across the full-color spectrum, but it also offers 24000 to 30000lm.

Moreover, the Hobolite Pro provides a color range of 2700 to 6500K with a CRI and TLCI of 96+, meaning photographers and videographers of all stripes reap the benefits of clean, accurate, and beautiful light. And since Hobolite ensures top-of-the-line color consistency between each light, the photographer or videographer in your life can use multiple Hobolite Pros at once with the assurance that the color of each light will match.

The Hobolite Pro offers so many more features and amenities, though…

The Pro is controlled via a smartphone app that’s the ultimate in ease of use. What’s more, the Pro has large, knurled knobs that offer precise control over the light’s settings, like dimming it from 0 to 100 percent. The advanced UI makes it an effortless process to find the settings you need to set the mood with beautiful lighting. Add a detachable control panel to the mix, too, and get wireless control up to 65.6 feet away.

To say the Hobolite Pro is an advanced professional lighting system is an understatement. The Pro was designed from the ground up to meet the dynamic needs of photographers and videographers in a variety of applications.

The Standard Kit comes with a set of barn doors, a V-mount clamp, and a dual battery charger. Upgrade to the Creator Kit, and you get a light stand and a softbox, too. You can also pair the Pro and its industry-standard Bowen’s mount with many different accessories to customize the light output, including a diffuser, a honeycomb, or a lantern, to name a few.

It’s worth noting the impeccable construction of the Hobolite Pro, too…

At 7” x 6.5” x 12.3” and just over eight pounds, the Pro is an excellent combination of size, portability, and features. The light is beautifully designed and crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it durable and eye-catching at the same time. Add faux leather side panels to the mix, and you have a light that can inspire creativity like no other light can!

Add dual V-mount 14.8V DC 6400mAH 95Wh rechargeable batteries, a dual-bay battery charger, and AC/DC power options, and you have the makings of a complete professional lighting system that’s the ultimate holiday gift!

Learn more about the Hobolite Pro

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Inergy FLEX 1500 Power Station & FLEX Battery

Sometimes, when you're on location at a photo shoot, you don't have immediate or easy access to power for charging your batteries, running your laptop, and so forth. That's where a portable power station like the Inergy FLEX 1500 comes into play...

I have this unit plus a couple of FLEX batteries, a few of Inergy's Ascent solar panels, and a number of other goodies that have completely transformed how I work and play in the field. At just 14" x 8" x 8.9" and is 29 pounds, you can easily move it from your vehicle to the location where you need power. The large handle on top helps with that venture.

And once you have the FLEX 1500 power station where you need it, it provides you with all sorts of power options...

The power station comes with one 1,000-watt FLEX battery, and if you add another, you get 2,000 watts of power (for under $2,500!). The FLEX 1500 has a 1,500-watt pure sine wave inverter that's capable of 3,000 watts of surge power, which is more than enough for most overlanding adventures.

So, how is that power delivered? Well, there's quite a few choices!

• Six 110-120VAC floating outlets
• Two 60W USB-C ports with PD and QC 3.0
• Two USB-A ports with QC 2.0
• Two 5.5mm x 2.5mm DC outputs for Basecamp LEDs & future accessories
• Two 15A cigarette lighter ports with 13.8V regulated DC output (20A at 13.8VDC total combined DC output)

There are separate AC and DC power buttons and many cooling vents. But no matter how you use the FLEX 1500 for power, you can get details about the system's vital components and its performance.  

Additionally, each FLEX battery has its own LCD display that shows its current power level. 

But the most impressive part of the FLEX battery system is that they're plug-and-play. All you have to do is align the connectors on each battery, lock them into place, and they are ready to rock! I have three FLEX batteries, each stacked one on top of the other, giving me 3,000 watts of power. Though that might seem like a lot, the Inergy system can actually be expanded to a whopping 96 batteries!

I typically use my FLEX 1500 power station to run my electronics for working while I'm camping - my Starlink, laptop, charging camera batteries, and so forth. But I can also use it to power devices like my coffee maker, a crock pot, and the lights on my camping trailer.

Something else worth noting is that you can charge this system using solar, shore power, or DC power. Better still, you can use all three sources at once to greatly reduce charging time.

When you or a loved one is out in the field and needs power for your photography or videography devices, there's not a better option in my book. This Inergy system is smartly designed, offers loads of power options, is highly portable, and whisper quiet. What more could you want?!

Learn more about the Inergy FLEX 1500 Power Station & FLEX Battery

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Printique

Shopping for a photographer can be tough sledding because most of us have most of the gear we want or need. And if we don't, we're very particular about what gear we want to buy.

That being the case, sometimes the best way to shop for a photographer is to give them the gift of photography!

Printique offers a wide range of products and services that enable you or your loved one to showcase favorite images. On the one hand, you could put together a collection of your favorite images to give in a photo book or album. On the other hand, you can go with a large-format acrylic or canvas print. There are, of course, many other options in between, like:

• Metal prints
• Wood prints
• Paper prints
• Puzzles
• Calendars

You get the point...

Of course, since Printique offers excellent pricing on their products and services, you can give the gift of a lot of photos for the holiday season. Mix and match among the products listed above or explore Printique's website for other items you or your loved one might enjoy most.

Whatever you decide to order, you'll be impressed with the quality. I've ordered a variety of products from Printique over the years and have been impressed through and through with the quality of the prints, the craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Heck, even the packaging Printique uses to send you your orders is impressive!

Printique has cut its teeth in this industry for a long time, and as an Adorama company, it holds itself to the highest standards of quality and customer service.

Whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one that's a beginner, enthusiast, or professional photographer, Printique has something - a lot of things - that make ideal holiday gifts. And like I said, with a budget of $2,500, you can do a lot of shopping!

Learn more about Printique

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: 2023 Apple MacBook Pro 

At the top of many photographer's holiday wish lists is a new computer, and it's tough to go wrong with an Apple MacBook Pro.

I've had MacBook Pros for years and years, and can testify that they are the best computers for photo and video editing - at least in my opinion! This is especially true of the newest generations of the MacBook that feature Apple's own silicon chips.

The 2023 MacBook Pro features an M2 Pro chip that offers unbridled power for heavy-duty editing tasks. It comes with a 12-core CPU and a 19-core GPU with 16GB of unified memory and 1TB of SSD storage.

In other words, this sucker will handle any task you throw at it with ease...

What I love about having a MacBook Pro is that I can use it with an external monitor (well, two external monitors, in my case) when I'm working from home, and then when I travel, I still get a crystal clear view of what I'm doing. The current model sports a nice, big 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display that is easy on the eyes and allows me to get my work done without straining to see what I'm doing.

Other features include the following:

• Long-lasting battery (up to 18 hours)
• 1080p FaceTime HD camera
• Studio-quality audio with a three-mic array
• Six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio
• Magic Keyboard with touch ID

Moreover, this computer is completely cross-compatible with apps like Adobe Creative Cloud, Affinity Designer, Microsoft 365, and most iPhone and iPad apps.

On top of that, the 2023 MacBook Pro comes with a MagSafe charging port, an SDXC card slot, and an HDMI port. There are also three Thunderbolt 4 ports, a headphone jack, BlueTooth 5.3, and Wi-Fi 6E.

All this is wrapped in an aluminum unibody enclosure that's not only beautiful but durable, too!

Learn more about the 2023 Apple MacBook Pro

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Pre-Owned Nikon Z7 II from MPB

If you're on the hunt for the ideal gift for the photographer in your life, look no further than the Nikon Z7 II. This cutting-edge mirrorless camera is designed to elevate their photography game and capture moments with unparalleled precision and clarity.

The Nikon Z7 II is a powerhouse of innovation, boasting a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor that produces jaw-droppingly detailed images. Whether your loved one is a professional photographer or an avid enthusiast, this camera's exceptional resolution ensures that every shot is a masterpiece.

One of the standout features of the Z7 II is its dual EXPEED 6 processors, which deliver lightning-fast performance. This means your photographer can capture a rapid succession of shots, making it ideal for action photography or fast-moving subjects. It also offers an impressive ISO range, allowing for exceptional low-light performance and flexibility in various lighting conditions.

When it comes to autofocus, the Z7 II is a game-changer. Its advanced 493-point phase-detection autofocus system covers nearly the entire frame, ensuring that subjects are tack-sharp, even when they're on the move. This feature is especially handy for wildlife, sports, or portrait photography.

Videography enthusiasts will also appreciate the Z7 II's 4K UHD video capabilities, which produce cinema-quality footage. With the camera's 10-bit N-Log and 12-bit ProRes RAW recording options, your photographer can unleash their creativity and capture breathtaking video content.

The Z7 II's ergonomic design and weather-sealed construction make it a reliable companion for outdoor shoots, ensuring durability and comfort even in challenging conditions. Additionally, the tilting touchscreen and user-friendly menu system make navigating the camera's features a breeze.

For photographers already invested in Nikon's ecosystem, the Z7 II is compatible with F-mount lenses through an adapter, providing a seamless transition to mirrorless technology.

Whether your loved one is a seasoned pro or just starting their photographic journey, the Nikon Z7 II is a gift that will ignite their passion for capturing stunning images and videos. And you can give this gift while saving some of your hard-earned money by buying pre-owned!

Learn more about a pre-owned Nikon Z7 II from MPB

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Canon EOS R6 Mark II

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a true marvel of modern photography that's sure to put a smile on anyone's face this holiday season...

This camera is a mirrorless masterpiece designed to take photography to new heights. With its advanced features and cutting-edge technology, it promises to capture every moment with impeccable precision and quality.

At the heart of this camera lies a high-resolution full-frame sensor, boasting an impressive 24.2 megapixels. This sensor ensures that every image is rich in detail, color, and clarity, making it a perfect choice for photographers who crave top-notch image quality.

The EOS R6 Mark II also has a fantastic autofocus system. With 1,053 selectable AF points covering nearly the entire frame, your photographer can confidently track and capture fast-moving subjects, whether it's sports, wildlife, or portraits.

Low-light photography is also a breeze thanks to the camera's remarkable ISO range, which delivers stunning results even in challenging lighting conditions. This versatility makes it suitable for capturing breathtaking shots at any time of day or night.

For videographers, the EOS R6 Mark II offers 4K UHD video recording with Canon's renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, ensuring smooth and cinematic video capture. It also supports advanced video features like 10-bit 4:2:2 recording for exceptional video quality.

The camera's ergonomic design and weather-sealed construction guarantee comfort and durability, making it an ideal choice for outdoor shoots. The intuitive touchscreen interface and customizable controls make accessing the camera's functions effortless.

For those already invested in Canon's lens ecosystem, the EOS R6 Mark II is fully compatible with EF lenses via an adapter, allowing for a seamless transition to mirrorless photography.

Whether your photographer is a seasoned pro or just starting their journey, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a gift that will empower them to capture stunning images and videos. It's a versatile and high-performance camera that will be cherished for years to come, making it the perfect holiday gift for any photography enthusiast!

Learn more about the Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Pre-Owned Sony A7 IV

If you're shopping for a photographer that's invested in the Sony ecosystem, the a7 IV is worth a good, long look as an ideal gift for them.

This camera is a true powerhouse, featuring a full-frame 33-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor that delivers outstanding image quality. With its impressive resolution and dynamic range, every shot becomes a work of art, making it an ideal choice for photographers who demand the best.

Boasting 759 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points, this camera's autofocus system covers nearly the entire frame, ensuring that subjects are sharp and in focus, even in challenging conditions. This makes it perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects, whether it's sports, wildlife, or portraits.

Low-light photography is a breeze thanks to the camera's impressive ISO range, allowing for stunning results in dimly lit environments. The improved image stabilization further enhances low-light performance, reducing the effects of camera shake, resulting in blur-free images.

Videographers will appreciate the a7 IV's 4K video capabilities, including 10-bit 4:2:2 recording for outstanding video quality. The camera also offers S-Log2 and S-Log3 for maximum dynamic range and flexibility in post-production, making it a versatile tool for capturing cinematic video.

The camera's ergonomic design and weather-sealed construction ensure it can handle the demands of outdoor photography. And with a tilting touchscreen and customizable controls, it's a great companion for the photographer on your holiday shopping list. 

Sony's commitment to innovation is further evident in the a7 IV's long-lasting battery life, enabling the photographer in your life to capture more moments without constantly worrying about recharging. And with a vast selection of high-quality lenses to suit any photographic style, the photographer on your list can use this camera with just about any lens they might already have from Sony.

The Sony a7 IV is a gift that will empower your loved one to create stunning images and videos. It's a versatile and high-performance camera that promises years of joyful photography. This holiday season, give the gift of creativity and limitless possibilities with a pre-owned Sony a7 IV!

Learn more about a pre-owned Sony A7 IV

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: ProMediaGear Pro-Stix TR424L Carbon Fiber Tripod 

ProMediaGear tripods are among the best on the market. And that’s not just lip service, either.

I’ve used ProMediaGear tripods, including the TR424L, for quite some time, and I can assure you that they are well-made, durable, and extremely functional.

These are professional-grade tripods, without a doubt. It can hold up to 125 pounds of gear thanks to its 42mm-thick carbon tripod legs.

Even when I’m out shooting video and I have a ton of accessories, it still doesn’t come close to that 125-pound mark!

From a functionality standpoint, the legs have three-position angle locks so you can adjust the tripod to be perfectly level, no matter how uneven the terrain. The built-in bubble level helps in that regard as well.

Deploying the legs is simple, too - just a quarter-turn locks them in place.

As a landscape photographer, this tripod also has huge rubber feet, which is a favorite feature. The tripod doesn’t sink into soft soil, and it doesn’t slip when things are wet or frozen. The metal spikes in the bottoms of each leg offer even more stability for truly rough shooting conditions.

You get all this in a tripod that folds down to just 26.3-inches tall, which can easily fit into a camera bag.

This isn’t a lightweight tripod by any means, but if the photographer on your list needs a go-anywhere, do-anything tripod, this is definitely it! 

Learn more about the ProMediaGear TR424L Carbon Fiber Tripod

Heads up: Clicking on our affiliate links and exploring our sponsored content helps us at no extra cost to you, and we only recommend gear we're absolutely crazy about!

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It was big news when Apple told the world they would begin making their own chips.

Well, now that the first spate of Macs with the Apple M1 chip have been released, it seems that all the hype was well worth it.

Nevertheless, before you plunk down hundreds of dollars on the new Apple Mac Mini M1, you should take a critical look at what it has to offer you in terms of bang for your buck.

That's where this first impressions review comes in. Let's get to it!

Apple Mac Mini M1 Specs

In the video above by Karl Conrad, you can get a quick visual overview of the Mac Mini.

For our purposes, let's begin by discussing a few of the major specs that the Mac Mini M1 has to offer:

• Apple M1 8-Core CPU at 3.2 GHz
• 8-Core GPU
• 16-core neural engine capable of 11 trillion calculations per second
• Up to 16GB of RAM
• Up to 2TB of SSD storage
• Multiple ports, including two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, two USB-A ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, an HDMI 2.0 port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack
• BlueTooth 5.0 support
• 7.7 x 7.7 x 1.4 inches in size
• 2.6 pounds

Though this new Mac Mini M1 is vastly different under the hood than its predecessor, it retains the same small, lightweight, slim design of the Mac Mini line. At just 2.6 pounds, it's easily portable, and at 7.7 x 7.7 x 1.4 inches in size, it can easily sit on top of your desk without being obtrusive.

Of course, what we really want to talk about is the Mac Mini's components. Let's do that in more detail...

Apple Mac Mini M1 CPU & GPU

The CPU in the Mac Mini is the eight-core M1, an all-new chip designed, developed, and built by Apple.

It's eight cores serve different functions. Four of the cores are tasked with overseeing performance while the other four are in charge of efficiency. This mixture of efficiency-minded and performance-minded cores allows the Mac Mini to save power and better regulate its temperature depending on the workload.

Paired with this all-new CPU is an eight-core GPU that can support dual displays. In fact, it can handle a 6K display via Thunderbolt as well as a second 4K display via HDMI. It should be noted that some older Intel-powered models could support three displays, so dual-display support could be considered a downgrade.

It's important to note that the Mac Mini M1 is not compatible with external GPUs, so you're stuck with what Apple gives you out of the box.

While this GPU can handle intense 4K video editing, the emergence of 8K video could prove taxing for this GPU.

Apple Mac Mini M1 Performance

Of course, the big question with Apple's new silicon was how it would impact performance. And thus far, the M1 chip has not disappointed.

Like the M1-powered Macbook Air and Macbook Pro 13.3-inch, the Mac Mini M1 offers blazing-fast performance.

This applies to normal, everyday tasks as well as heavier-duty tasks like editing photos and videos. Even many programs that weren't designed to run with the M1 chip perform well and feel as though they were made for the M1 chip.

One of the biggest benefits of the M1 chip, though, is instant on. Just like your iPad, this thing fires up immediately. I am the impatient type, and waiting for my early-2020 Macbook Pro to fire up in the morning seems like an eternity. But those agonizing seconds are a thing of the past with the Mac Mini M1.

All in all, the M1-powered Mac Mini has proven to be a real asset in the short time since its release.

It offers improved performance over its predecessor (except perhaps in the RAM department, where the M1 maxes out at 16GB and the older Intel model maxed out at 64GB), offers an excellent experience for daily use, and has the power to chew through intensive tasks like photo and video editing.

I imagine that these capabilities will only continue to grow as Apple improves the M1 chip for future generations of Macs.

It should also be noted that the Mac Mini M1 can use all eight GPU cores while the M1 Macbook Air and Pro only have seven GPU cores on hand. This might not seem like a huge difference, but testers have noted that the Mini outperforms the Macbooks in terms of graphics performance due to the additional core.

Apple Mac Mini M1 Price 

Considering that the base Mac Mini M1 is just $699, this is a great computer for budget-minded buyers. 

Granted, most folks will want to give the RAM a boost from 8GB to 16GB, which increases the price to $899. If you add a larger SSD drive (from 256GB to 512GB), the price jumps again to $1,099. If you max out all the options, you're looking at $1,699, which is still a great price if you ask me.

But even at the mid-range price of $1,099, you get a whole lot of performance and features, especially for a "desktop" computer that is so portable.

Given how smoothly the transition to the M1 chip has gone so far, I can only imagine how good the next couple of generations of the Mac Mini will be.

So, is this new Mac Mini worth the price of admission? Let's look at its pros and cons to see:

Pros:

• Incredible speed
• Instant on
• Wi-Fi 6
• Existing apps run well
• Great price for the specs and features offered

Cons: 

• No way to upgrade internal components on your own
• No external GPU support
• Fewer ports than previous model
• Maxes out at 16GB of RAM
• Truly awful built-in speaker

Clearly, there are some excellent upsides and some significant downsides to the Mac Mini M1. But you get this mix of pros and cons with any computer.

In the end, the blazing performance of the M1 chip makes the Mac Mini a great buy, in my opinion. The low base price and the relatively low prices of upgraded models only adds to its appeal.

If you want something fast and inexpensive, this could be the new computer for you. But if you want external GPU support, tons of RAM, and the ability to upgrade components on your own, the Mac Mini M1 should not be on your radar.

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You may have seen on TV shows or movies someone, usually law enforcement or spies of some kind, viewing an image or video on a computer and saying to the voice controller something like, “Enhance” and seeing the computer do unbelievable things. 

As a photographer, I always think about processor speed, memory, and graphics interface and how much I could do with photos and video as an art with a computer for photographers like that. 

Well, we’re not at NCIS:LA or Blade Runner level yet, but the new M1 Mac chips from Apple are a leap ahead for users needing pure processing power, such as photographers and videographers.

What Is the M1?

The M1 is a new chip set from Apple introduced in 2020 (the year that didn’t exist) that is being used in several updated and brand new computers. As of this writing, the models incorporating the M1 Mac chip now or very soon are MacBook Pro (shown above), MacBook Air, Mac Mini, M1 iPad Pro, and M1 iMac.

As a computer for photographers, it’s already hard to beat a Mac, using an M1 Mac for photographers is going to be great. Way back in ancient times, 1990s, there was a huge gap between Windows PCs and Macs in terms of being optimized for graphics and photography. So, many of us dove right into the Mac world immediately.

While many fine Windows PCs currently exist for photographers and videographers, I still prefer a Mac for my creative work. 

What Sets M1 Mac Chips Apart?

 ^{photo byMARHARYTA MARKO via iStock}

The making of computers is full of options for how to put together CPUs on a motherboard with memory options, graphics controllers, and other electronics. For years, Intel has been one of the leaders for fast CPUs that can run the massive programs used in photo and video editing. Many fine Apple machines have used Intel processors.

The M1 Mac chips are the first chips designed and made wholly by Apple for their larger computers other than iPhones, so right away we can understand how this chip will be optimized for running a Mac. M1 Mac  chips are a complete system on a chip (SoC)  that integrates CPU, GPU, signal processing, RAM, security, SSD controller, and several other operations. 

This full scale integration makes the M1 Mac chip faster and more efficient, which means that it will be better for editing video and images. The operations will be smoother, faster, and easier to handle. I can’t wait to get my hands on one!

Learn More:

• Advantages of Widescreen Monitors
• How To Choose a Monitor for Video Editing

Take Full Advantage

In order to take full advantage of everything provided by the M1 Mac for photographers, like the MacBook Air shown above, you'll also want to upgrade your monitor for photo editing. That’s the one disadvantage of fantastic upgrades to one part of your system. You need to upgrade other components, too.

Think of the M1 Mac as the Number 1 draft pick QB for your editing team. What good is a superstar passer without receivers that can get open and catch the ball? Same with getting an upgrade to a computer that improves performance, an upgraded monitor for photography is also a good investment. 

Together, the upgrade will greatly increase your editing performance. Like Joe Montana to Jerry Rice or Terry Bradshaw to Lynn Swan, the two paired together, M1 Mac and  upgraded monitor, are a winning combo.

My Editing Studio Upgrade

I’ve already upgraded my photo and video editing studio to a dual monitor set up using the new ultra widescreen curved monitors from ViewSonic. Immersive viewing makes large, curved screen monitors my first choice as a monitor for photographers. 

Since I already upgraded monitors, I checked to see if the ViewSonic VP3881 and VP3481 I’m using are compatible with the M1 Mac upgrade in my near future and they are. Here are a couple of pics of how I’m using them right now:

This first image shows how much bigger both the 34 inch VP3481 and 38 inch VP3881 monitors are than the native screen on the laptop next to them.

This second pic shows how I get an immersive view when editing either photos or video due to the curved screens. Immersive viewing is a benefit as it is, paired with the improved performance of the M1 Mac it will be outstanding.

These ViewSonic monitors provide the immersive viewing I’ve detailed in other reviews, are incredibly sharp, have outstanding color, and will accept the output from high end devices such as an M1 Mac for photographers.

Hello, Computer!

I know, we’re not at Star Trek level yet, not even at NCIS:LA level yet. But did you notice that Scotty was using a Mac to work out that future formula? Using the new M1 Mac chips in whatever Apple Mac computer we opt for is going to be a major upgrade for many of us.

The speed alone will be a workflow improvement for us using these wonderful new cameras we have with 4K video and ultra high resolution still image files as we process them with our high tech programs. 

The improvements in digital photography and videography in the last couple of years alone are impressive. An M1 Mac with a ViewSonic monitor to process our 4K video and 45MP image captures will feel like a form of science fiction come to life.

Yes, I’m going to play with my M1 Mac when I get it, but then I will get to work using all of its features, which will feel like getting paid to play. Our jobs as photographers and videographers are the best!

Learn More:

• Why You Need a Curved Monitor for Photo Editing
• Best Items Photographers Need to Invest In

 

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Each year, I put together a "best of" list that enumerates some of the most innovative and impactful photography companies and products that I've come across.

It's difficult to pare the list down to just ten examples, but I've managed to do it.

Below, you'll find some common and well-known names like Apple and Canon. But there are many more that you might not have heard of, but should.

In each case, I have personal experience with each of these companies or products, which gives me a deeper insight into why these companies are at the top of the heap for my best photography companies of 2021.

Let's get to the list!

Metal Mouth Prints

When talking about innovation, you might wonder how anyone could possibly innovate the metal print industry.

Yet, that's exactly what Metal Mouth Prints did in 2021, and that's why they are in the top spot of this list.

The innovation I'm speaking of is their éZi Mount mounting system.

Where traditional metal prints come with a mounting system attached to the back that allows you to hang the print on the wall, the éZi Mount attaches to the wall, and then the print attaches to the mount. So, what's innovative about that?

It's simple - with this system, you can swap out prints to your heart's content!

Just leave the mount on the wall and change the print that's attached to it as you see fit. The print floats in front of the frame to give it some depth for a nice three-dimensional look.

When you want to change the print, just remove the existing one and install the next one in a matter of seconds.

Best of all, there are no tools required to swap out prints!

There is nothing else like this on the market. It is truly a new innovation that I believe will change the metal print industry forever.

Learn more about Metal Mouth Prints

Holdfast

It's been quite a few years since I got my first Holdfast product. Yet, here we are, all this time later, and I'm still blown away by the products that Holdfast produces.

When I think about the best of the best, I think of companies that have a commitment to quality, reliability, and durability. It doesn't hurt if a product is easy on the eyes, too!

And that's exactly what you get with Holdfast...

Their bags, harnesses, camera straps, and other leather goods are beautifully made by hand, right here in the U.S.

My first experience with Holdfast was with their Roamographer camera bag. 

This bag is big enough for a professional's photography kit, and with the removable organizer, you can keep all your camera bodies, lenses, and accessories neatly stored away.

The Roamographer is impeccably designed, beautifully crafted using the finest materials, and it’s versatile, too.

For instance, the camera insert can be removed to create a cavernous main compartment that can be used as a weekend getaway bag when you aren't traveling for photography purposes.

Another product I've enjoyed using is their MoneyMaker Solo camera strap. 

Once I switched to mirrorless cameras a few years ago, I needed a strap that allowed me to "run and gun" with a light kit - like my old Canon EOS R and a 50mm lens.

The MoneyMaker Solo is the perfect strap for traveling light - it's got a nice, big shoulder strap, an integrated stabilizer strap to keep your camera from bouncing around, and the strap is made of the same leathers and metal materials as Holdfast's impeccable MoneyMaker dual camera strap.

Here's where even more innovation comes in...

The MoneyMaker Solo has a Belt Anchor that keeps your camera locked in place. This means that when you're walking around, bending down, or kneeling down to take a photo, your camera stays right in place.

Just pull the release tab on the Belt Anchor and your camera is set free so you can get the shots you need. Then a simple one-handed action is all it takes to re-engage the Belt Anchor.

It's designs like that that make Holdfast one of the Best of 2021!

Learn more about Holdfast

Best Ever Backdrops

I've worked with many of the companies on this list for years and years - but I didn't learn about Best Ever Backdrops until this year.

The fact that they are making an appearance on this list should tell you something about just how impressed I am with their products!

I was immediately impressed with Best Ever Backdrops and have found their products to be among the very best backdrops in the business.

For starters, unlike many backdrops I've ordered over the years, Best Ever Backdrops actually look the part - they are truly so photorealistic that when you touch them it's surprising that you don't feel the texture of what's pictured.

Secondly, I've recently gotten into food and product photography, and these backdrops are perfectly sized for it - at 24 x 36 inches, they are plenty big for the small vignettes I need to photograph.

Of course, that size has another advantage - these backdrops are easy to pull out and use and put away when I'm done.

I work out of my home, so storage space is at a premium. I didn't want a huge roll-up backdrop because, quite honestly, I don't need something that large for what I do.

My backdrops from Best Ever Backdrops slide right under the bed or in the corner of the closet with ease. They are easy to grab when I need them and out of the way when I don't.

Another feature of these backdrops that really impresses me is that they are double-sided. So, rather than getting just one backdrop, you get two! 

Not only is this a money-saving feature, but it also means I don't have as many backdrops to organize and store.

Add to that the fact that these backdrops are lightweight, durable, stain-resistant, waterproof, and have a matte finish to minimize glare, and you can see why I've been so impressed!

Learn more about Best Ever Backdrops

PGYTech MantisPod Pro

I've used all sorts of handheld mounts over the years, but have been a loyal GorillaPod user for quite some time.

I have to say, though, the PGYTech MantisPod Pro has taken over as my primary handheld mount.

This thing is so impressive because it can be used in so many different ways.

For example, it has seven different modes of use to give you the ultimate in flexibility. This includes being able to hang the mount in "mantis mode" so you can record footage or take photos hands-free.

In addition, the MantisPod Pro comes with a mini phone holder and a cold-shoe mount to give you even more flexibility. The cold-shoe is compatible with microphones, lights, and many other accessories that allow you to have a complete vlogging setup if you like.

The mount also features a SnapLock mini reverse ballhead that allows you to shoot in landscape mode, portrait mode, or do 360-degree panning.

Of course, all this is wrapped into a mount that's small enough to put in your pocket. With that kind of versatility, functionality, and portability, how could I not include the MantisPod Pro on my list of the best photography gear of 2021?!

Learn more about PGYTech MantisPod Pro

Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

Next on my list of the best of 2021 is this bad boy - the Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55.

What's so impressive about this hard case is that you can fit a ton of gear in it, yet it's super easy to maneuver around. That's because it's got big, beefy wheels and a telescoping handle so you can roll it behind you as you make your way through the airport.

But this isn't just a great carrying case for photography gear if you're jetting off somewhere. 

In fact, I use it most frequently to carry my photography gear on my overlanding adventures and weekend camping trips.

When you're a landscape photographer like me, you need a hard case that protects your gear no matter if you're driving on a paved highway or crawling over a rough dirt trail.

This case certainly does the job...

There's four layers of foam on the bottom and convoluted foam on the lid that offers your gear complete protection.

When the case is closed, the inside becomes airtight to keep dust out.

The case also has pull release latches, padlock attachment points, and you can add optional accessories that attach to the metal pins on the outside of the case.

It's simply an innovative, well-thought-out case with loads of benefits for photographers!

Learn more about the Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

f-Stop Tilopa

I've used f-stop bags for years now, and one of my absolute favorites has been the Tilopa.

Well, this year, f-stop updated the Tilopa...

At first, I couldn't figure out what f-stop could possibly improve - in my view, the Tilopa was as close to a perfect bag as one could find.

Yet, f-stop did manage to improve it, and the new Tilopa has become my new favorite bag.

I mean, get a load of some of these specs:

• DuraDiamond™ 315D HT nylon diamond ripstop material with environmentally responsible C0 DWR & TPU
• Contoured BLOOM™ EVA padded hip belt with super-duty dual density BLOOM™ EVA padded shoulder straps
• Internal metal frame
• 70D Nylon Ripstop lining fabric with 500mm Polyurethane coating
• Heavy-duty stitching with industrial-bonded thread
• Weatherproof heavy-gauge zippers
• 50-liter capacity, with a 39-liter main compartment and various smaller pockets on the top, bottom and sides
• 25.4 x 30.5 x 55.9 inches in size
• 45-day full satisfaction guarantee - you get a full refund if you don't like the bag
• 20-year warranty against manufacturer defects

Aside from the fact that this bag comes with a 20-year warranty and you get a 45-day full satisfaction guarantee, you also get a laundry list of incredible specs.

The new DuraDiamond™ 315D HT nylon diamond ripstop material looks great, is incredibly durable, and is environmentally friendly to boot.

The heavy-duty stitching is something I especially appreciate since I'm a landscape photographer and my bags usually get knocked around pretty well. The weatherproof zippers are another feature I really appreciate as a landscape photographer.

And despite the fact that this is a good-sized bag - it can hold 50 liters of gear - it's an incredibly comfortable bag to carry. That's due to the Contoured BLOOM™ EVA padded hip belt with super-duty dual density BLOOM™ EVA padded shoulder straps.

Honestly, I can carry this bag fully loaded all day long and feel great at the end of it all.

It's truly one heck of a bag and is my go-to choice for my photography adventures!

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa

CanvasHQ

CanvasHQ has been my go-to canvas printing company for years and years. They have proven time and again to produce some of the very best canvas prints on the market. After all, they've won our Canvas Print Shootout three years running!

From a materials standpoint, CanvasHQ is so impressive because they use only the finest components to create their prints.

They use archival-grade canvas, UV-resistant inks, and the frames that support the canvas are made of kiln-dried wood.

Speaking of the frames, they're handmade to ensure they are straight and true. And unlike some canvas print companies, CanvasHQ incorporates tons of bracing to keep the frame straight and true for the life of the print.

But it isn't just the quality and craftsmanship of their prints that earned CanvasHQ a spot in this Best of 2021 list...

These guys have a commitment to quality and customer service that you seldom see these days.

If you have a problem, just give them a call and you can speak with a real, live human being.

If you need to return a print, no worries! CanvasHQ offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. If there's an issue, simply return the print within 30 days and CanvasHQ will either remake it or refund your money in full.

On top of all that, CanvasHQ offers quick turnaround times, fast shipping, and great prices. It's a trifecta!

I've got dozens of canvases from CanvasHQ in my home. And even though I have so many prints from them, I'm still so impressed each time I unbox a new order.

If you want to get the highest-quality prints backed by the best customer service in the business, consider working with CanvasHQ!

Learn more about CanvasHQ

Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

One of the primary reasons why I switched from Nikon to Canon a few years ago is because Canon had a much more robust slate of lenses for their EOS R ecosystem than Nikon had for their Z-mount system.

The only "problem" with Canon's R-mount lenses is that there initially weren't many affordable options.

But the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM certainly fits the bill for affordability at just $199.00.

Ask any photographer and they'll probably tell you that a 50mm lens is a must-have for anyone's camera bag.

These lenses are hugely versatile, offer bright apertures (f/1.8 in this case), and are small, lightweight, and portable, which makes them a great option as an everyday lens or travel lens.

This lens has excellent image quality (though it can't match the L-series lenses), the standard RF lens control ring, a 12-pin connection for faster data transfer, and a host of other features and benefits that make it a must-have for Canon EOS R shooters.

Learn more about the Canon 50mm f/1.8

GoPro Hero 10 Black

I've used GoPros for years, and every iteration has been better than the one before.

The GoPro Hero 10 Black is no exception...

GoPro pulled out all the stops with this thing. For example, it has a brand-new 23-megapixel sensor and a brand-new GP2 processor that enables the GoPro to process data more quickly.

It has some hold-over features too, like being waterproof to 33 feet, voice control, and various video and photo capabilities like TimeWarp 3.0, HDR, RAW, and SuperPhoto, to name a few.

Of course, the Hero 10 is also compatible with Hero 9 accessories, including the media mod, so if you have a Hero 9, upgrading to the Hero 10 won't cost you all those add-ons.

Learn more about the GoPro Hero 10 Black

Apple Macbook Pro M1 Max

I've had a long line of Macbook Pros over the years, and while they have been more and more impressive with each iteration, the current generation of Macbook Pro with the M1 Max chip is hands-down the best computer I've ever had.

Obviously, the big draw of this particular Macbook is the top-of-the-line M1 Max chip.

When Apple came out with the first M1 chip, everyone was astonished at its performance. Well, the M1 Max is all that and more...

With this machine, I can multitask to my heart's content without worry of diminished performance. I can have dozens of browser tabs open and not worry about the spinning wheel of death popping up. I'm unconcerned about downloading multiple files or uploading multiple files at the same time, either.

Additionally, I do a lot of video editing, and the M1 Max Macbook Pro is a beast for that kind of task. The rendering times are absolutely mind-blowing!

My machine is the 16-inch M1 Max variant with a 10-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 16-Core Neural Engine, 64GB RAM, and 4TB SSD storage. In other words, it is about as good as it gets.

And while the price was eye-watering, this machine has proven to be worth every penny thus far!

This computer has tons of ports, a gorgeous Liquid Retina XDR display, a backlit keyboard, and so much more.

All I can say is, if the M1 Max chip is this good, I can't wait to see what the M2 chip will be able to do!

Learn more about the Apple Macbook Pro M1 Max

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Over the years I've had a wide range of computers in my office.

Typically, I opt for a high-powered laptop, that way when I travel (not that I'm doing much of that at the moment...) I can take my work with me. After all, I'm a workaholic, so having the portability of a laptop is a must.

For about ten years now, I've been almost exclusively a Mac user and have had various Macbook Pros. There have been some PC laptops sprinkled in there too, but none that I was head-over-heels in love with.

Just a few months ago, I decided I would go all-in with Apple. I got rid of my HP desktop and my 15-inch Macbook Pro and invested in the latest 16-inch Macbook Pro (late 2019).

A few weeks after I made the switch, I was introduced to a new PC laptop (well, new to me, anyway) - the Razer Blade 15 Studio.

Full disclosure - while I bought my Macbook with my own money, Razer sent this rig to me to review. And so far, it's been so good that it has me questioning my loyalty to Apple.

So, I thought, why not compare these two titan laptops to see how they really stack up?

Basic Specs: Macbook Pro vs Razer Blade 15 Studio

Let's start by having a look at the basic specs of these machines. Bear in mind that these are the specs of the specific laptops I have, but there are all kinds of variations you can choose for both.

Macbook Pro 16" Specs:

• 2.4GHz 8-core Intel Core i9 processor
• 5GHz max boost speed
• 64GB RAM
• 2666 MHz DDR4
• 1TB SSD drive
• 16MB L3 Cache
• Radeon Pro 5500M 8GB Intel UHD GPU
• 16-inch IPS display with 16:10 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, and 3072 x 1920 resolution
• Backlit keyboard with touchbar and Force Touch trackpad
• 6 built-in speakers
• 3 built-in microphones
• 100 Wh lithium-ion polymer battery (rated for 11 hours)
• Dimensions: 14.09 x 9.68 x 0.64"
• Weight: 4.3 pounds

Razer Blade 15 Studio Specs:

• 2.6GHz 6-core Intel Core i7 processor
• 4.5GHz max boost speed
• 32GB RAM (expandable to 64GB)
• 2667 MHz DDR4
• 1TB SSD drive
• 12MB Cache
• NVIDIA Quadro RTX 5000 with 16GB GDDR6 VRAM
• 15.6-inch OLED touchscreen with 16:9 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, and 3840 x 2160 resolution
• Backlit keyboard with touchpad
• Built-in speakers
• Built-in microphones
• 80 Wh lithium-ion battery (rated for 8 hours)
• Dimensions: 13.98 x 9.25 x 0.7"
• Weight: 4.88 pounds

As you can see from these spec sheets, these high-powered laptops are quite similar in many ways.

For example, they both have 1TB of SSD storage, large widescreen displays, built-in speakers and mics, and backlit keyboards.

Additionally, they are roughly the same size and weight, and honestly, they look an awful lot alike as well.

Processors, max boost speed, RAM and cache are similar as well.

So, based on many of these specs, these machines are very comparable.

Pros and Cons: Macbook Pro vs Razer Blade 15 Studio

^{Macbook Pro 16-Inch}

Now let's see what features these laptops have that they've hit out of the park - and which ones are a swing and a miss.

Macbook Pro Pros:

• Huge display with virtually no bezels
• Responsive keyboard and TouchForce trackpad
• 6 speaker setup sounds incredible
• 8-core i9 processor delivers epic power
• Superb battery life

Macbook Pro Cons:

• No Retina or 4K display
• No SD card slot
• No full-size USB port
• Expensive starting price

^{Macbook Pro 16-Inch}

Mac users shouldn't be shocked as many of these pros and cons.

For starters, that processor is epic and has power for days. It's just what the doctor ordered for photographers and videographers that need a lot of processing power.

Secondly, Apple has drastically improved their keyboards lately, and this one is no exception. It's responsive, soft to the touch, and a joy to use.

Lastly, the sound from the speakers is fantastic - by far the best I've experienced with a Macbook Pro.

Of course, this is not a perfect laptop. While the screen is nice, it doesn't offer the sharpness, detail, clarity, and color accuracy of the Razer. Not having an SD card slot or any ports other than USB-C is annoying. But the price is the biggest obstacle for most people. You're looking at around $2,400 for the base model. The one I have set me back $3,899.00.

^{Razer Blade 15 Studio}

Razer Blade 15 Studio Pros:

• Insane graphics card
• Beautiful 4K screen that's sharp, detailed, and has bang-on colors
• Top-notch power for power-hungry tasks
• Ports galore
• Nice keyboard

Razer Blade 15 Studio Cons:

• No 8-core processor options
• Bottom can get a tad hot
• Expensive

By far, the best feature of this laptop (in my opinion, anyway), is the graphics card. 

The NVIDIA Quadro RTX 5000 GPU with 16GB GDDR6 VRAM is an insane beast that can eat up and spit out any video-related task you throw at it. I have been astonished with its performance for video editing, and though I'm not a gamer, I also appreciate its performance when I decide to take a break and play a game for a few minutes.

The screen on the Razer is also breathtaking. Not only does it offer incredibly accurate color rendition, but it's also bright, crisp, and highly detailed. It's one of the best laptop screens I've ever seen.

I also appreciate that Razer includes a slew of ports - three USB 3.2 ports Gen 1 Type-A ports, HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, MiniDisplayPort, and a SD card reader. 

But, like the Macbook, there are a few quibbles...

There are no 8-core processing options. While the 6-core tears it up, it would be nice to have the 8-core option.

Likewise, the cooling system works very well, but I have noticed that sometimes the bottom of the laptop can get a bit hot. This has been a very minor issue so far though.

The price is scary for some folks too - it starts at around $2,400, but if you want the high-powered NVIDIA Quadro graphics, the price will be at least $4,000.

The Verdict: Macbook Pro 16" vs Razer Blade 15 Studio

At the end of the day, I'd actually choose the Razer Blade 15 Studio if I could only have one of these laptops. And, as I noted above, the biggest reason for this would be the incredible graphics card this thing has.

I do so much with video now, and having that NVIDIA Quadro GPU is a Godsend. It absolutely blows the Radeon Pro GPU in the Macbook out of the water.

But, I realize that there are strict Mac people and strict PC people, so if you're firmly in the Mac camp, this late 2019 16-inch Macbook Pro is one of the best you can get. And for you PC lovers, it's tough to beat the display, performance, portability, and graphics of the Razer Blade 15 Studio.

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^{photo by Hailshadow via iStock}

There are TONS of possibilities for gift-giving this holiday season with a budget of $5,000.

In fact, the variety of gifts you could give the photographers on your list is quite great...

From a new computer to a new camera body, photography trips to a collection of large-format prints, this list has something for every photography enthusiast!

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: CanvasHQ Prints

If you’re like me, sometimes finding the perfect gift for certain loved ones is a long, drawn-out process that causes tons of stress, and often you still don’t get something that totally blows them away.

I think a lot of photographers fall into this category. We have specific likes, and many of us already have most of what we want or need gear-wise, and what we don’t have is usually too expensive to put on a Christmas wish-list anyway.

But for all those hard-to-shop-for photographers on your 2019 holiday shopping list, I have the perfect solution - a canvas print.

Think about it… 

A canvas print is a gift that keeps on giving.

Not only can you immortalize one of your favorite images from your favorite photographer, but you also give them a means to showcase their work in a format that’s drop-dead gorgeous.

I have tons of canvases in my home, the vast majority of which are from CanvasHQ.

Now, I know what you’re thinking - canvas is old school.

Sure, maybe it is, but I’m telling you that these canvas prints from CanvasHQ are mind-bogglingly beautiful. In fact, they go head-to-head with any metal or acrylic print I have in my home.

The attention to detail is just amazing, and the materials they use are top-of-the-line. We’re talking archival-grade canvas, commercial-grade inks that are water and UV resistant, and kiln-dried pine frames to keep everything straight and true.

I love the personality that the canvas texture gives my images. That’s true whether it’s a portrait of my son or a landscape photo.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the customer service you get with CanvasHQ.

These guys are committed to getting it right, so if something doesn’t go as planned, you won’t be hung out to dry.

If you have questions, they’ll answer them. If you have a problem, they’ll fix it. If you need assistance with uploading your photo or even picking the best finishes for your canvas, they’ve got your back.

In the video above, I explain why I highly recommend a CanvasHQ canvas print as the ideal gift for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ!

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Colors of Costa Rica Photo Tour With ColorTexturePhotoTours

From spectacular sunsets on the coast to breathtaking waterfalls, incredible diversity of wildlife (including dozens of species of frogs) to stunning flowers, Costa Rica has no shortage of subject matter for a photographer.

And as part of ColorTexturePhotoTour's Colors of Costa Rica photo tour, the photographer on your list can explore all that and much more as part of a luxurious, all-inclusive trip!

This trip is the ideal length - six days and five nights - so it's easier to get away from work and other responsibilities to spend a relaxing time in one of the most beautiful locations on earth.

Over the course of the trip, the photographer on your list will join no more than three other participants to tour the landscapes of Costa Rica with workshop leader Scott Setterberg.

Those landscapes, which includes four national parks, will be fodder for some spectacular photography opportunities, as well as plenty of one-on-one instruction time with Scott.

In this regard, this trip isn't just about seeing gorgeous places, but it's also about developing and improving photography skills.

With stops in Tenorio Volcano National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Catarata La Fortuna, Lake Arenal, and Juan Castro Blanco National Park, the tour takes participants to varied locations, each of which offers unique beauty and challenges photographers to apply their skills to get the best shots.

Along the way, a licensed, English-speaking nature guide will offer insights into the biodiversity of Costa Rica, so tour-goers learn more about the beauty they see and photograph.

Each evening, the tour winds down and participants stay in luxurious, award-winning accommodations.

The photographer on your list can enjoy authentic Costa Rican cuisine, spa services, massages, and more.

What better way to celebrate the holidays than by giving your loved one the photography trip of a lifetime?!

Learn more about the Colors of Costa Rica Photography Tour by ColorTexturePhotoTours  

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: A Vietnam Photography Tour With The Art of Seeing Photography Adventures

Vietnam is a breathtaking country with countless opportunities to photograph landscapes, bustling cities, and incredible cultural and historical elements.

As part of a tour with The Art of Seeing Photography Adventures, your favorite photographer will get an immersive experience in which they will spend two weeks exploring popular as well as off-the-beaten-path locations throughout the country.

Among the highlights is an exploration of rice terraces that have been built into the steep topography of Vietnam's mountains. The trip, which is September 13-26, 2020, is timed perfectly to see the terraces in prime condition, just before harvest.

Another highlight of the trip is an overnight cruise through Halong Bay, a world-famous location that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

By traveling via boat through the bay, you get a unique perspective on the area and have a chance to get away from the crowds that come to the Bay and explore lesser-known areas.

Another aspect of this trip that makes it such a spectacular photography outing is the exploration of the northern part of the country, where you can interact with ethnic minority groups, including the Black Tay, Flower Hmong, and Red Dao.

This interesting subcultures are welcoming to guests, willing to pose for photographs, and even welcome strangers into their homes for rural homestays.

Of course, the trip begins and ends in Hanoi, so the hustle and bustle of the big city is also on the agenda.

With the adventure limited to 10 people, the photographer on your list will get to enjoy small group experiences in the utmost comfort.

Priced at $4,800 for single occupancy, this is an ideal gift idea when you have a $5,000 budget for the photographer in your life!

Learn more about The Art of Seeing Photography Adventures Vietnam Backroads & Byways Photography Workshop & Tour

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Pre-Owned Canon EOS R and Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM

If the photographer on your list needs an upgrade in the camera department, you might consider giving the gift of a Canon EOS R this year.

The EOS R was released in October of 2018, so there's been time for prices to fall and for a good selection of used cameras to develop.

With a like-new-condition EOS R, you can save yourself quite a bit of money while still giving your loved one a capable, reliable, and virtually new camera!

The EOS R features a 30.3-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor.

The result of this is superb performance, excellent image quality, and a bevy of secondary features that make it a fantastic camera for just about any photographer.

With a native ISO range up to 40,000, this camera is a good low-light performer, and with 8 fps continuous shooting, it can tackle subjects like wildlife and sports photography in which rapid movement needs to be captured.

Additionally, the EOS R has a top-of-the-line autofocus system call Dual Pixel AF, which allows users to select from 5,655 AF points to quickly and accurately acquire focus.

Add to that 4K UHD video recording at 30p, and you have the makings of a fantastic holiday gift!

Better still, since a like-new EOS R is barely more than $1,900, you can also give the photographer on your list a lens to go with it.

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L USM is a great choice for an all-around lens that accommodates wide-angle, standard, and telephoto shooting. And since pre-owned versions in like-new are under $850, you're well under the $5,000 budget threshold!

Learn more about the Canon EOS R and the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Pre-Owned Nikon Z6 and Nikon Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8 S

If you're shopping for a Nikon enthusiast, why not give them the ultimate gift in the form of a pre-owned Nikon Z6 in like-new condition with a pre-owned Z-series lens to match?!

Like the EOS R described earlier, the Nikon Z6 is a feature-rich camera that any photographer would love to have in their camera bag.

Armed with a 24.5-megapixel full frame back-illuminated sensor, this camera offers excellent resolution, and with an EXPEED 6 image processor, it operates lightning fast, too.

The Z6 has built-in 5-axis image stabilization that makes hand-held shooting an easier task, and its 273-point autofocus system helps shooters acquire subjects more quickly and track them with greater ease for improved photos.

This camera has a native ISO range of 100-51200, so low-light shooting isn't an issue, and a whopping 12 fps continuous shooting rating.

The Z6 has developed a solid reputation as a great video camera as well.

It has full frame 4K UHD video recording capabilities at up to 30p, and with a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, videographers can get low-angle and high-angle footage more easily.

Add in a lightweight magnesium alloy body, full weather sealing, and a shutter life of 200,000 shots, and you have the makings of yet another excellent gift idea for the photographer on your list!

Since like-new Z6's are barely more than $1,500, there's plenty of room in your $5,000 budget to add a nice lens to the package.

The Nikon Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8 S is a great choice, as it's a highly versatile focal length that can tackle portraits, landscapes and everything in between.

What's more, 50mm is an ideal focal length for video, so paired with the Z6, you can give a rock-solid video-making kit to your favorite photographer!

Learn more about the Nikon Z6 and the Nikon Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8 S

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Nevada Art Printers Lumachrome Acrylic Prints

If you're shopping for a photographer that needs to have a lot of prints made, and who prefers acrylic prints over canvas, there's no better choice than a selection of large-format acrylic prints from Nevada Art Printers.

I was never a huge fan of acrylic prints until I decided to give Nevada Art Printers a try a few months ago.

I had gone to Norway and captured a pretty good shot (shown above) and wanted a print that would really elevate the quality of the shot.

So, I ordered an acrylic print from these guys, and it is honestly one of the most beautiful prints I have ever laid hands on. Truly - they perform magic!

Now, I have to say that the photo above of this print simply does not do it justice. My home studio has tons of lights everywhere and I just couldn't find an angle to take a photo that didn't have a glare.

The big draw of these acrylic prints is the Lumachrome finish (you see people talking about it all the time on Facebook).

In a nutshell, Lumachrome prints are ultra-high resolution with incredible vibrancy and clarity. It honestly gives the photo a 3-dimensional feel. That’s because Nevada Art Printers created custom ICC profiles that use a tweaked tone curve to maximize that 3-dimensional effect.

Honestly, it’s hard to describe, and even more difficult to believe if you can’t see it with your own eyes - like I said, photos online just do not do the quality of these prints justice!

What’s more, the folks at Nevada Art Printers are extremely helpful and work hard to help you get the best possible print. Their customer service is truly A+!

This combination of super-high-quality products and top-notch service before, during, and after the sale makes an acrylic print from Nevada Art Printers an ideal gift for the photographer on your list this holiday season. 

Learn more about Nevada Art Printers and their Lumachrome Acrylic Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Nikon Z7 with Nikon Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 S Lens

I shoot with a Nikon Z7 and I have this very lens as well. It's an ideal combination for everyday photo-taking.

What impresses me the most about this camera is its sensor - a 45.7-megapixel full frame behemoth that offers superb image quality.

The sensor is paired with a fast and accurate 493-point autofocus system that offers 90 percent coverage. Whether the photographer on your list photographs people, places, or things, this camera will be a great companion!

Other features of note include 9 fps shooting, 4K video up to 30p (up to 120 fps in HD), an ISO range of 63-25600, and built-in image stabilization.

Additionally, Nikon gave the Z& a beautifully resolute 3.69-million-dot electronic OLED viewfinder as well as a 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen display.

I really appreciate the design of the camera as well - it feelslike a Nikon with a deep grip and a familiar button layout.

On top of all that, the Z7 is fully weather sealed - I tested it out in Norway and can attest to its ability to stand up to really, really cold temperatures.

You get Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB battery charging, and Nikon's SnapBridge functionality as well.

And in this case, the Z7 comes with a killer lens, the Nikon Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 S.

This lens is the ideal walk-around lens, with wide-angle to short telephoto capabilities that allows photographers to capture all kinds of subject matter without the need for lens changes.

What's more, this S-series lens is small and lightweight, making it an ideal alternative to bigger, heavier f/2.8 models.

It has an aspherical extra-low dispersion element, three aspherical elements, and Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings, all of which combine to reduce chromatic aberrations, distortions, ghosting, and flare.

The result is beautiful color rendering and improved contrast. In other words, it's a great camera-lens combination!

Learn more about the Nikon Z7 With Nikon Nikkor 24-70mm f/4 S Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Apple MacBook Pro

Any photographer would appreciate a souped-up laptop to use to edit photos, and there's few that are better for that task than the Apple MacBook Pro.

This particular model has an Intel i9 8-core processor at 2.4 GHz, a 4 TB SSD drive, 32 GB of RAM, and an AMD Radeon Pro Vega 20 graphics card.

In other words, this thing has all the hardware needed to power heavy-duty processing of photos and videos.

Sure, this computer is barely under the $5,000 mark, but considering all the goodies it possesses, it is well worth the price.

The processor comes with Turbo Boost, which can speed up to 5 GHz when needed. Additionally, there is 16MB of shared L3 cache for speeding up processing.

The 32 GB of memory is lightning-fast at 2400 MHz while the aforementioned graphics card has 4GB of HBM 2 memory.

The 15.4-inch retina display is LED backlit with IPS technology.

The result of that is a crystal-clear display with gorgeous colors and contrast. 

The backlit keyboard is full-sized, and with Apple's touchbar technology and Force Touch trackpad, getting work done is an easier task.

This is simply a killer laptop, and it's within budget too!

Learn more about the Apple MacBook Pro

Gifts for Photographers Under $5,000: Sony a7R IV

The Sony a7R IV will be hot off the assembly line well in time for the holiday season, and it's a fantastic gift idea for the photographer in your life.

This camera is packed to the gills with modern features that will make any photographer smile from ear to ear.

The a7R IV has a 61-megapixel sensor that's unrivaled on the market at this point.

 

Along with that crazy sensor is a laundry list of jaw-dropping specs:

• a 5.76-million-dot electronic viewfinder
• 5-axis image stabilization
• 10fps burst shooting
• 15 stops of dynamic range
• A 567-point phase-detect autofocus system
• Wireless tethering
• Enhanced dust and moisture resistance.

That's not even to mention Sony's impeccable Eye AF system which tracks human and animal eyes with extreme precision.

There's also Real-Time AF for video recording, 26-megapixel resolution in APS-C crop mode, and sensor-shift multi-shot mode that creates image files that are a whopping 240-megapixels in size.

And at less than $3,500, you can give the gift of the Sony a7R IV without breaking your budget!

Learn more about the Sony a7R IV

Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

Why not go the easy route and get them an Amazon gift card?

Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you dropped $5,000 into a few gift cards (there's a $2,000 limit per card), they'll love it just the same.

With an Amazon gift card, they can buy whatever they want - a new lens, a second camera body, lighting gear, a laptop - you name it!

As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card with some serious money loaded onto it!

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

 

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