Since photography is all about good light, one of the most important things you can have in your camera bag is a top-notch light.

Now, I know what you’re thinking - using artificial lights is expensive and time-consuming and difficult to learn.

And maybe that was true back in the day when you had to invest in big, heavy lighting gear to get the job done.

But these days, there are all kinds of small, portable, and affordable lights for photographers that make it far simpler to get just the right light for your photos.

That being the case, let’s check out the best lights for photographers that we’ve tested in 2019.

Hakutatz Pocket Size RGB+AW LED Light

As its name indicates, this little light fits in your pocket, but don’t let its small size fool you…

With amber, white, and RGB LEDs, you can come up with virtually any kind of light you need for your photos.

Add visual interest and drama with any color of the spectrum using the RGB lights or get the perfect white balance using the amber or white lights.

Editor's Note: The Hakutatz Kickstarter campaign was a huge success! Their Amazon store will be open and ready for orders in early December.

Whatever the case, you can fine-tune the settings using the companion app. That means that with a simple touch or swipe of your finger, you can adjust the RGB color, the color temperature, special effects, and even control multiple lights at the same time. 

You can adjust saturation and brightness, too, so you don’t need to invest in other lighting gear like diffusers or softboxes. All you need is in this one little portable light!

Learn more about the Hakutatz Pocket Size RGB+AW LED Light

PilotFly AtomCube RX1 RGBCW LED Video Light

When considering what lights made this list of the best lights of 2019, one of the first to come to mind is the little guy shown above.

The AtomCube RX1 from PilotFly is another excellent example of how far lighting for photography and videography has come in the last few years.

Not only is this a key light in your pocket, but it’s also packed with features that will help you achieve your creative vision.

For example, it has nine common lighting scenarios built right in, that way you can quickly and easily implement a lighting scheme. Likewise, it offers tons of adjustments, from the color temperature to the brightness to the color saturation.

This light is also fully dimmable from 0-100 percent, so you can truly get the precise level of light you need for the shot or video sequence you’re working on.

If you need to create a more elaborate lighting setup, PilotFly has you covered because you can link up to 255 AtomCubes together via Bluetooth. And don’t worry about the light not being consistent - these lights are calibrated so you get color tone and brightness that looks the same across multiple lights, especially when they’re mounted together using Magic Cubes.

You can then control all those lights using the AtomCube smartphone app. Literally with just a few taps of your phone, you can adjust brightness, change the color temperature, and create an unlimited number of groups of lights, all in real-time. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that when you’re multitasking at a photo shoot!

The high-strength, all-aluminum frame makes this light super lightweight, yet incredibly durable, so it’ll be a solid companion and workhorse for you for years to come.

Add in a three-hour battery life on full power, a CRI of 95+, a TLCI of 97, and a variety of lighting accessories to expand your creative possibilities even further, and you begin to see just what a high-quality, reliable light this thing is!

Learn more about the AtomCube RX1 RGBCW LED Video Light 

Litra Studio

Weighing in at just 33.5 ounces and measuring 5.5" x 3.9" x 2.9", this light is ultra-compact for easy transport, yet is capable of producing up to 3,000 lumens of continuous light and up to 6,00 lumens of flash. Nice!

Better still, the light is fully dimmable, tunable, and offers CCT, HSI, RGBWW, gel presets, flash modes, and effects as well.

It CCT mode, the light gives you 2,000-10,000K adjustable bi-color lighting with a green and magenta color shift control to allow for tunable blue and green screen optimization.

 It also offers flicker-free lighting at all shutter angles and features a 97 CRI and TLCI color accuracy.

With a rugged, waterproof design, efficient passive thermal management, and up to 20 hours of battery life on the lowest setting, this light is one of the best lights for photographers this year, hands down. 

Learn more about the Litra Studio

Andycine Boling P1 RGB Pocket LED Light

Designed for video use, the Andycine Boling P1 is pocket-sized for easy transport and has a 360-degree mount to make manipulating the direction of light a quick and simple task.

In RGB mode, the light gives you 360 unique colors so you can get just the right light for each situation.

Color temperature is adjustable - from 2500-8500K - giving you the ability to match any ambient light sources. There are also nine built-in special effects, including candles, car lights, and lightning.

The rechargeable battery will give you over two hours of continuous use and has a built-in feature that prevents overheating.

This light is fully dimmable, has a CRI of 96 and a TLCI of 97, and has a ¼-20” shoe mount for easy mounting.

Learn more about the Andycine Boling P1 RGB Pocket LED Light

iLED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light

Another option for an affordable light for your photography work is the iLED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light.

This unit is just over 5 x 3 inches in size, so it offers excellent portability while also offering high-quality LED lighting.

Its solid construction means you get a light that's durable and reliable, and that will offer professional-grade performance for the long-term.

It utilizes energy-efficient bi-color LEDs and a 60-degree angle that gives you the reliable, consistent lighting you need to elevate the quality of your photos.

You can quickly and easily adjust the dimmer as well as the color temperature (from 3200-5600K) so you can dial in just the right lighting too!

This stackable on-camera light is also an affordable option that won't break the bank. What's not to like about that?!

Learn more about the iLED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light

Litra Torch LitraPro

As I noted in my LitraPro review, this little light is one of the smallest you can buy at just 6 ounces and measuring 2.75 x 2 x 1.2 inches. 

But Litra has packed 60 LEDs into this light, which gets you 1200 lumens of light for your photos.

The light is flicker-free, crisp, even, and very clean, which is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to getting high-quality light for your photos and videos!

The LitraPro offers bi-color light and has an adjustable color temperature of 3,000-6,000K so you can customize the lighting for each specific shot. 

It has a 70-degree beam angle, is waterproof up to 90 feet, and has a 10-hour battery life on low output. 

Add to that MIL-SPEC 810 durability, a bright OLED display, and Bluetooth control, and you have the makings of one of the best small photography lights you can get your hands on!

Learn more about the Litra Torch LitraPro

Aputure 120D II

If it’s a powerful studio light that you’re after, the Aputure 120d II performed very well in our review.

With a 1000-watt tungsten equivalent, fully dimmable light, and a CRI & TLCI of 97+, this light gives you beautifully clean output.

It comes with many different built-in lighting effects that enable you to create a more custom and interesting look in your images.

It has an integrated power and control box, which helps minimize clutter in your studio, and with an 18dB quiet fan, you won’t have to listen to a loud fan as you try to work with your clients.

I had the original 120d and while it was an excellent light, this one takes its spot on this list of the best lights for photographers because it’s 25 percent brighter than the original. It’s color temperature is also slightly warmer (5500K rather than 6000K) which I particularly like. 

Add in a wireless remote, DMX controls, and good portability, and you have a light that ticks all the boxes for a quality addition to your studio.

Learn more about the Aputure 120d II

LitraTorch 2.0 

This is yet another light I’ve reviewed this year that left me really impressed.

Not to be outdone in the smallness department, the LitraTorch 2.0 is by far the smallest light on this list, measuring 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.65 inches and weighing just 3.17 ounces. 

In terms of portability, that’s hard to beat!

This light has 16 LEDs that offer 100, 450, or 800 lumens depending on what you need for the shot.

Regardless of the lumen output, you’ll get clean, crisp, flicker-free light with a 70-degree beam angle. As you’d expect from one of the best lights for photographers in 2019, this one offers a CRI of 90+ and a TLCI of 92.

You can use the light on its low setting for up to four hours or get about 35 minutes of output on the maximum brightness.

It’s also waterproof to 60 feet in case you need to do a little scuba diving, has a magnet for easily attaching to metal surfaces, and two ¼-20 mounts too.

Like the other lights on this list, the LitraTorch 2.0 is simply a versatile, do-anything light!

Learn more about the LitraTorch 2.0

Aputure Amaran AL-M9

 

Rounding out my list of the best lights for photographers in 2019 is this little guy, the Aputure Amaran AL-M9.

This daylight-balanced LED light offers surprising brightness for such a small fixture.

It has a color temperature of 5500K and comes with a removable diffuser, CTO, and CTB filter. There are 9 steps of dimming as well.

The integrated battery gives you about two hours of runtime on full brightness when fully charged, and it can be charged quickly using the optional USB charger.

There are multiple mounting options as well, including as a cold shoe accessory or on a ¼-20 mounting point.

And at $45.00, it’s the cheapest light on this list!

Learn more about the Aputure Amaran AL-M9

 

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^{photo byDmitrii Guldin via iStock}

GoPro and GoPro style action cameras are fantastic tools for videographers. Being rugged and water resistant make them the perfect video gear for many situations in which it may not be advantageous for us to use our DSLR or mirrorless digital cameras.

GoPro action cameras are pretty small so matching them up with some GoPro video accessories such as a GoPro mount to hold the camera or other GoPro accessories such as mics or lights works out well.

To find GoPro video accessories and other general and specialized video gear, I like to use Ikan Corp. They make and sell all sorts of video gear for advanced videography. Here are three GoPro accessories you need in your bag.

GoPro Shoulder Rig

GoPro and other action cameras are quite small compared to most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, which means we can mount them virtually anywhere. Holding them steady for videography with only our hands can be somewhat difficult, though, due to that small size.

A shoulder rig mount like the GoPro Handheld Shoulder Rig model ELE-GOFLY will allow for steady shooting on the fly and is configured to be able to hold two GoPro cameras at once for stereoscopic 3D applications. The extra mounting points can also be used for mounting lights or microphones.

The shoulder pad part of the mount can be moved from one side to the other or removed completely and the rest of the mount used as an action mount.

GoPro Grip Handle

Perhaps you want a more simplified method of holding your GoPro video gear, if so a handle might fit your needs. The GoPro Grip Handle ELE-GPH lets you hold the action camera comfortably and even has a flat foot on the bottom side so you can use it as a stand on a table or brick wall or something similar. It is an item that many action cam videographers consider to be in their must have GoPro video accessories bag.

This GoPro mount grip allows for 90 degrees of tilt and has strap slots which you could use to secure it to a surface, an object, or around your wrist. For on the move filming, which is what most action cam footage is, attaching your camera to this video gear grip is a very good idea as it gives you more security and stability than trying to hold the camera on its own. 

Learn More:

• How To Edit Videos Like a Pro
• 5 Tips for More Professional-Looking Videos

Dual-Head Lavalier Mic

One of the most important GoPro video accessories used to turn your action cam into a regular use video camera are auxiliary microphones. In order to record the spoken word, such as in a voiceover or an interview, lavalier mics are used by many videographers.

There are multiple options for lavalier mics including whether to use wired or wireless mics, but the least expensive and easiest to use are wired. Ikan’s Dual-Head Lavalier Mic, the Comica CVM-D02, is an excellent choice for GoPro video accessories.

It has two microphone heads, an 8 foot cord, wind socks, and two different types of connectors. The microphone has very low distortion and a wide dynamic range for natural sounding audio recording in our GoPro video recordings.

What Other GoPro Video Accessories Are Useful?

^{photo byYURII HAVRYKOV via iStock}

The GoPro cameras and other action cameras are great for photographers and videographers, allowing shooting and recording in situations otherwise inaccessible to regular cameras. Other accessories that we can use include housings, cases, lights, and a huge array of different mounts. 

Whatever your GoPro kit includes, you have the ability to capture truly breathtaking images and videos, particularly if you have a newer GoPro, like the Hero 9 Black. Good luck shooting!

Learn More:

• Basic Slider Techniques
• Awesome Camera Accessories
• Types of Microphones for Vlogging

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^{Photo by Aman Upadhyay on Unsplash}

 Your Sony a6500 camera is a great tool for both still photography and video. There are some must-have video accessories for Sony a6500 that can assist you to get the most out of its video capabilities.

 Accessories for video fall into several categories, camera handling, lighting, and audio. It’s important to keep in mind that video accessories won’t automatically improve your video, that’s still the work of gaining experience and skill. 

 What these Sony a6500 video accessories can do for you is make certain jobs either easier to do well or add capability that you can exploit. So we came up with a very short list of 3 must-have video accessories that can benefit your video efforts, specifically tailored to your Sony a6500 mirrorless camera.

Camera Cage

What is a camera cage? It’s a housing, bracket, or grip for your camera that protects it and adds mounting points for all the various accessories for video that we add to our cameras to increase their capabilities and improve handling. 

Some of those other must-have video accessories that would overwhelm this small camera without a camera cage are external mics, external monitors, follow focus systems, teleprompters, wireless transmitting gear, follow focus system, and matte boxes.  

Attaching one external microphone to your Sony a6500 via the hot shoe pretty much takes up all the room available on the camera itself. A camera cage offers multiple mounting points, none of them attaching directly to the camera.

That’s an important thing to consider, because if we attempt to add more and heavier items to our camera hot shoe, we put extra strain on the camera’s top plate. Any drop or even a slight bump to a show mounted bracket with multiple items on it could damage the camera.

Looking at an example of a cage designed for this camera, such as the TILTA ES-T27 from Ikan, we see all of these considerations factored into its design. Since the Sony a6500 is the same basic body as the other Sony a6xxx series of cameras, it will also fit them.

Machined from a single piece of aluminum for the cradle art of the cage, it provides excellent damage protection for the camera. 

Some other features are the multiple very secure mounting points for added gear, an integrated 15mm rail system for lens accessories, quick release for the entire rig, and full access to all buttons, doors, switches, and slots. It even has a cooling system to combat the problem of hot operation during long shoots.

Portable LED Light

Now we move on to the lighting category of our must-have video accessories for Sony a6500. Compared to photographic lighting, cinematography lighting can seem confusing at the start. But it isn’t difficult to figure out.

Many of the same lighting configurations we use for portraits and product photography can be adapted directly to video. The biggest change that we need to adapt to ourselves is movement. Videos move, with camera movement and subject movement, sometimes both at once. Even if we’re simply panning across the scene with a fluid head, that’s still movement.

Which is why having a light mounted to the camera cage is often a good practice. We can use the camera mounted light as a catch light or as the primary light source. Since we want it on camera, battery powered LED lights are a great fit.

The iLED144 Bi-Color Flood Light from Ikan is a good example of the type of portable light that can be used this way. Not only is it small and lightweight, it also has adjustments for color temperature and power level so we can seamlessly blend it in with the ambient light or the rest of our lighting rig.

LED lights are good for both video and for still photography. Continuous light is provided, the LED bulbs are cool and very efficient, and the quality of the light is very high. 

Learn More:

• 4 Signs You Need a Camera Cage
• How To Transmit Video Wirelessly
• Why You Need a Field Monitor

Shotgun Microphone

Filling the audio portion of our must-have video accessories for Sony a6500 is a shotgun mic. There are other types of microphones such as wireless lavaliers and boom mics we can use for improving the audio portion of our videos, but a high quality shotgun mic mounted to the camera is a very versatile tool for many styles of videography.

One model that will work very well with your Sony a6500 camera is the Comica CVM-CP2 super cardioid condenser shotgun mic. It also comes from Ikan, designer, maker, and retailer of high end accessories for video. Ikan designers are videographers themselves, so the gear is well thought out. Being their own manufacturer, they can offer their high end gear for lower prices than many other brands.

 

What makes the Comica shotgun mic so useful is that it can be powered by its own battery or by phantom power, has built-in low noise circuitry, and has a frequency range of 20Hz to 20KHz and a signal-to-noise ratio of greater than 65dB. It can mount to most cameras and fits on any camera cage. It can even be used as a boom mic with an extension pole.

Helpful Hints and Instruction

Another category of must-have video accessories is quality instruction. The new cameras are incredibly capable which means we really should try to get the best out of them. 

Keep coming back to PhotographyTalk.com for helpful hints, equipment reviews, and in-depth instruction for various techniques for all skill levels from beginner to advanced. 

Learn More:

• How To Shoot Quality Video Footage
• 3 Types of Lights for Video Production
• Shotgun Mic or Lavalier Mic: Which Is Right for You?

 

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Do you want to improve the quality and viewability of your vlogs, podcasts, and YouTube videos? Using a teleprompter will provide you with videography gear and techniques that can help you out. We found 3 of the best teleprompters for any budget.

Whenever I am looking for new, upgraded, or needed videography gear, such as teleprompters for YouTube videos, I pull up Ikan Corp first or at least early in my search. 

Ikan products are made, designed, or procured by people who are videographers themselves, so the items are always useful and high quality. Since they design and make much of the videography gear themselves, we can find high quality equipment at much lower prices than similar items from other brands.

Budget Option

The Ikan PT-TAB Above-the-Lens Universal Tablet Teleprompter is an ideal beginner’s choice of teleprompters for any budget since it costs about the same as a high capacity memory card for your camera or a similar flash drive. 

It holds a tablet or large smartphone, being adjustable from 5x7.5 inches to 9X13 inches, so most Android or Fire tablets and most iPads will fit just fine. The specs say it’ll hold 7 inch to 12 inch tablets, but it goes both a little bit smaller and larger than that.

The PT-TAB mounts onto the 15mm rods that either come with or fit into a camera cage or other videography gear such as specialty dove-tail mounts. If you aren’t already using a camera cage yet, take a look at the advantages of having a camera cage for your DSLR or mirrorless camera.

There are apps available for tablets that enable you to easily scroll through the script or outline you’re using for your vlogging presentations. Some let you scroll manually, others use an automatic crawl with you setting the speed ahead of time.

Mid-range Option

An all around top buy and a great mid-ranged price option is the Ikan PT-Elite-LS Universal Tablet & iPad Teleprompter for Light Stands that requires no camera cage since it mounts on a light stand. 

For some users who don’t already have or aren’t planning on getting a camera cage, this actually becomes a better choice for them as a budget option. It’s priced at about the same or a little lower than the budget model PT-TAB plus a camera cage or around the same price as a 32GB Apple iPad 8 which can still be found brand new online.

Being able to fit it onto a light stand is a nice option for many vloggers setting up in their home studio or on location with the DSLR or mirrorless camera they regularly use for both still photography and video. 

The construction of glass, aluminum, and vinyl allows for easy reading and great viewability in a wide variety of ambient lighting conditions. Compatible with tablets from 6x9 inches to 9x13 inches.

Learn More:

• Why You Need a Camera Cage
• Common Videography Mistakes You Need to Avoid
• Tips for Better DSLR Video

Professional Option

A professional solution for larger cameras is the Ikan PT-Elite-Pro2 TK Teleprompter Travel Kit with Rolling Hard Case which costs about double the mid-priced option above or around the same price range as an Apple iPhone X.

It’s superbly designed, completely adjustable, and will accommodate cameras from lightweight mirrorless crop format cameras to Full Frame DSLRs and even larger camcorders. Made from aircraft aluminum, this mounts directly to a video tripod head and includes a rolling hard shell case for easy transportation. 

The PT-Elite-Pro2 will work with tablets as large as an iPad Pro but is still light enough to be used on a smaller video tripod or any other of tripod you might be using.

Why Use a Teleprompter?

Our main reason for recommending teleprompters for YouTube videos and other vlogs or podcasts is to provide your viewers with eye contact which tends to make people very comfortable when viewing your videos.

The number one method for maintaining eye contact with a remote audience is to create a script or a script outline and read it through a teleprompter so that it appears that you are looking straight into the lens. This is how newscasters seem to be talking directly to you without ever looking down at notes.

Since there are teleprompters for any budget, your videos can also benefit from the advantages of using a teleprompter.

Learn More:

• 4 Signs You Need a Camera Cage
• Tips for Teaching Online Photography Classes
• 5 Tips for More Professional-Looking Videos

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 ^{photo by monkeybusinessimages via iStock}

Working professionally in video requires you to be on top of all the technical aspects of the project, a field monitor for videography provides many benefits for pro or other advanced videographers in monitoring the video as you’re filming.

There are good reasons for using an external field monitor for video productions. A few of them are:

• Larger viewing area for better monitoring of focus and composition
• Brighter view for working under very bright light such as outdoors in full sunlight
• Allows other crew to see what is on camera
• Added features give more feedback and control to the filmmaker
• Can be set up for wireless monitoring

With those thoughts in mind, here are 3 things I usually look at when considering an external field monitor for photography and videography:

• Size
• Brightness
• Battery Life

Larger Screen

The demands for professional video, including wedding videography, are higher than for casual video making. The view screen on our DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or dedicated video cameras and camcorders are much bigger than what we had just a few years ago, but even the smallest external field monitor provides a lot more image area to look at.

Why is this important? It’s important because there are sometimes small little errors we make during filming that we might have avoided if we had a bigger view of what we’re recording. Focus is one procedure that is easier to take care of with a bigger view.

A step up from the built in view screen is the 5 inch screen of the Delta DH5e-V2 LCD field monitor from Ikan. The large screen size and a feature called false color assist you in making sure that the focus is spot on.  

Learn More:

• Awesome Camera Accessories
• Plan a Solid Video Shoot with These Pre-Production Tips
• How To Shoot Quality Video Footage

Bright View

Filming outside in sunlight or indoors under certain types of ultra bright artificial lights such as in a sports stadium can cause issues with viewability. Bright sunlight will wash out the view screen built into our camera, but an external field monitor combats this issue in several ways. 

First, the larger screen of an external field monitor is brighter overall simply because of its size. Second, the field monitors come with sunscreens that help manage excess glare. Third, you can readjust the position of the field monitors so that the bright  light isn’t directly on the screen. 

Being able to see clearly will help you with good composition and also avoiding any crew members or other unwanted elements being in the recording. 

These reasons make it beneficial to use a field monitor for still photography too, since we may be shooting still images in similar conditions from time to time.

The 9 inch Ikan VX9w-S is a field monitor that is an excellent choice for working under extremely bright lighting conditions like what you might find in bright sunlight or certain indoor venues. An added feature of some field monitors like this one is the ability to convert signals for HDMI to SDI or the other way around, SDI to HDMI.

Long Battery Life

A field monitor is only useful for professional videography for as long as it has power. Sometimes we have the option of plugging in our equipment to a wall socket, such as if we’re filming an interview for our YouTube channel. But most of the time, we will rely on battery power. 

An external field monitor such as the Ikan VXF7-V2 7 inch monitor is powered by Sony L style camcorder batteries. These batteries are common power sources for field monitors since they are inexpensive and can be charged quickly. Since they are relatively cheap, we can keep several charged up for longer videography projects.

Other Features and Benefits

 ^{photo by magical_light via iStock}

The ability to monitor wirelessly, see waveforms and histograms, and convert from one signal to another are other great reasons to use external field monitors for videography. If you film professionally or need professional quality video for your personal productions, a field monitor is a valuable asset.

Not only do you gain valuable functions, but you also ease your workflow and enable yourself to capture better video since you have a bigger, brighter, clearer view of what’s being filmed.

Learn More:

• Why You Need a Field Monitor
• How To Transmit Video Wirelessly
• Tips For Better DSLR Video

 

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^{photo byAzmanL via iStock}

What types of lights for video production are best for the type of videography gear that we have? Some often chosen types of lights for video are LED panel lights, ring lights, fresnel lights, soft boxes, and HMIs. 

What are the best lights for shooting video? We like softboxes a lot for still photography but a higher intensity light is often desired for good video. HMI lights are very intense, but also very expensive and quite hot, a little overkill for most video productions unless you’re filming for theatrical release or broadcast TV.  

So let’s look at some examples of the other 3 types of lights, LED panel lights, fresnels, and ring lights. Ikan Video Production Equipment & Accessories is a fantastic source for your high quality videography gear such as DMX, lighting, tripods, cages, and mics. They make or design what they sell on their website so their prices can stay reasonable while delivering superb quality.

LED Panel Lights

One of the most versatile of all the lights for video production is the panel light design. Modern LED bulbs have made these compact, lightweight, and cool operating while providing very true color in adjustable color temps and intensity. 

Ikan’s Lyra Bi-Color LB5 LED Panel Light is a good fit for many videographers for several reasons. Like any panel light, it emits a broad swatch of light, 110 degrees for this light. Just one or two panel lights can be configured to light up many of the situations in which a videographer might be filming.

Bright enough for most needs, panel lights are also relatively soft (compared to a flood). Not as diffused as a softbox, but really easy to work with. The Lyra LED panel light is switchable between 3200K and 5600K, has adjustable power settings, and includes the barn doors for precise shadow control. It can be powered by AC power or batteries.

Learn More:

• Top Camera Lenses for Video
• How To Shoot Quality Video Footage
• Tips for Better DSLR Video 

Fresnel Lights

Fresnel lenses let you shape the light cone to your exact needs, form a tight spot to a broad flood. It is focused like a lens might be by moving the fresnel or the bulb in order to change the light shape. The bulb may be tungsten, CFL, incandescent, or LED, with LEDs being the easiest to use and coolest to operate.

White Star 4” LED Fresnel Light from Ikan is a professional light with a lot of power and very useful features. It is 100 watt and can focus into a very bright and tight spot or widened out to a full flood. In addition to the fresnel adjustment, the 5600K light produced can also be modified by the included barn doors or by the dimming control.

It’s extremely well made and robust and also has 512K DMX for precise control in a total lighting system. It can be used on its own or as part of a lighting studio ensemble. 

Ring Lights

Ring lights are well suited for product photography or macrophotography but they are also invaluable for certain types of videography. A ring light is one of the best lights for shooting video of people, especially YouTube or other vlogging of a single person such as an interview or an instructional video.

A ring light, used coles to the subject, provides a virtually shadowless light on the subject. You’re shooting through a ring of light surrounding the camera, so there is no directionality at all to the lights, meaning no shadows. Another way to use ring lights for video is to add it into an already existing lighting configuration to add a catchlight for the subject’s eyes.

The Oryon RLB40-M Ring Light is a 14 inch circle of light that can be switched between 3200K and 5600K color temperature, has mounts for smartphones or cameras, and a remote control

Which One For You?

^{photo bykovaciclea via iStock}

So, then, which light is the best one for your video productions? Hopefully, the descriptions and uses listed above will help narrow it down for you. You can also take a look at some of our more detailed tutorials on video lighting. 

Actually, if you’re like most videographers, you’ll find that a nice kit of lights for video will probably include one than one type of video light. In fact, I’m envisioning a particular lighting configuration for all three lights we just discussed. Should be fun! 

Learn More:

• What Is DMX Lighting?
• How To Grow Your YouTube Channel In 2021
• Essential Camera Accessories for Vlogging

 

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^{Photo by Chris Murray on Unsplash}

I’ve been building my camera equipment stockpile for well over a decade now, and I never feel like I have enough equipment for videography. 

Not only is there constantly something new and interesting I want to buy, but I always have new clients that want really specific, niche videos.  

But over the years, I’ve perfected my basic videography equipment set. Here are the things I think a videographer can’t live without. 

Table of Contents:

• A Solid, Yet Portable Tripod
• A Quality Variable ND Filter to Control Exposure
• A Durable, Bright Light
• A Cinema Backpack to Carry It All

A Solid, Yet Portable Video Tripod

^{Photo by Wendy Wei from Pexels}

Tripods are incredibly important to a film shoot. They lend stability to your shots, allow you to pan and tilt your camera with ease, and prevent you from getting so wrapped up in your camera that you can’t direct the shoot. 

But, as we all know, all tripods are not alike.

I prefer my tripods to be on the lighter end of things, which allows me to save weight for more important equipment like my lenses. 

You’ll also want to look out for a tripod with a fluid head that connects to a bowl (as shown above), which allows for your tripod to bear more weight while keeping your shot level on uneven ground. 

Rubber feet are the most typical feet you’ll see on a tripod, since they allow for a good grip on a variety of surfaces, but if you’re constantly shooting out of doors you may want to purchase spiked feet to keep in your bag too. 

Ikan’s EK630 Tripod comes with all these features and more for just $170. It’s adjustable from 29” to 65”, comes with a carrying bag, and can support up to 8.8 pounds of equipment. 

It’s the perfect addition to my camera bag, along with my Canon EOS R and my growing collection of RF lenses.

With a small mirrorless system, I don’t need a big, bulky, heavy tripod to support my gear. Instead, the lightweight design with a mid-level spreader to add stability is just what the doctor ordered!

 

Recommended Videography Reading:

• How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro
• The DSLR Filmmaker's Handbook: Real-World Production Techniques

 

A Quality Variable ND Filter to Control Exposure 

When it’s a bright, sunny day outside and you need to get some footage, you usually have to close the aperture way down to control the exposure of your video.

There’s a problem with this strategy, though - the smaller the aperture, the larger the depth of field.

This isn’t a huge crisis, but depending on the type of video you’re shooting, you might want a nice, blurry background that helps separate the subject in the footage.

To keep the aperture nice and wide, and thereby minimize depth of field, you need a variable ND filter.

The Kenko PL-Fader is an excellent option because it’s inexpensive, yet durably built to last you for years and years of shooting video.

It has two high-transparency polarizing film layers that give you control over how much light passes through the filter and into the lens.

This is advantageous for controlling aperture, as mentioned above, but it’s also helpful for controlling the shutter speed. Specifically, if you want to slow down the shutter speed, the PL-Fader will help you do that. 

The easy adjustment knob makes changes to the filter’s light-stopping power a breeze, too, so you can concentrate on capturing the best-quality footage and not worry about complicated changes to your filter!

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

A Durable, Bright Light

 ^{photo by goir via iStock} 

I have this way of ending up in situations either without my lighting, or with a dead light. So, when you’re shopping for your lighting, make sure to choose one that has a long battery life.

You’ll also want to choose a light that you can throw around a bit. I’ve never dropped a camera, but pretty much everything else in my bag I’m really clumsy with. The problem is that most portable lighting feels really cheap. They’re made out of plastic and they break easily.

To combat this, use a light from an established company, like Litra. They’re a go to for many videographers for a reason.

When you’re shopping around for your lighting, some other helpful features are waterproofing, different types of camera mounts, and warranties. 

I use the Litra Torch LitraPro, which I purchased off of Adorama for $220.

I use this light, and specifically this company, for its 1-year warranty. Plus, the light is waterproof at up to 90 feet, it creates bright light across an entire room, and it lasts for up to 10 hours on one charge. 

Add to that full spectrum bi-color, Bluetooth compatibility, adjustable color temperature, and the ability to fully dim, and you have the makings of a top-quality light for video work!  

Learn More:

• Beginner Video Lighting Tutorial
• Getting Started in Vlogging: What You Need and Best Practices 

A Cinema Backpack to Carry It All

There’s no reason for you to buy all of this gear if you don’t have a way to carry it around. I’ve extensively covered different videography bags over the years on PhotographyTalk, and found that, for the price, the Hex Glacier Cinema Backpack is my absolute favorite.  

Importantly, it’s large enough to fit all of my equipment, which is an asset I’ve struggled to find in the past.

And no matter how much equipment I’m carrying, the backpack is comfortable because of its thick, padded straps that refuse to dig into my shoulders. 

It’s water resistant, has an abundance of pockets and other organization methods, and is completely customizable to your body type, too.

This bag is beautifully built, impeccably designed, and offers easy access to all your gear for quick lens changes, swapping out batteries, and so forth.

I can tell that this backpack was created by a fellow videographer, and for $240 I wouldn’t recommend anything else.

Learn More:

• Ways to Protect Your Camera Gear
• Urban Photography Tips

 

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The DJI Mavic Air 2 is a fantastic drone camera with some fairly high end specs and yet selling at a reasonable price point for serious photographers and videographers. It has a 48MP still photo mode, 4K video, 8K time lapse video, intelligent flight modes, and a very efficient power system allowing flights of over 30 minutes and maximum air speeds over 40 MPH.

As capable as the drone is, there are some Mavic Air 2 accessories that will be needed for extending its features and capabilities. In addition to DJI brand items, there are also excellent Mavic Air 2 aftermarket accessories available from other sources.

ND Filters

At the top of our list of recommended Mavic Air 2 accessories that extend and expand the capabilities are ND filters. Especially for video mode, using ND filters is one of the more important drone photography tips.  

ND filters or a combination of ND filter and circular polarizer (C-POL) filter are used in photography to capture usable images with proper exposure in brighter light or to allow for a specific range of shutter speeds or lens apertures for certain creative techniques. 

When shooting video, Mavic Air 2 accessories such as ND filters enable you to record the video with a frame rate and shutter speed that results in a more natural appearance in the final video, especially when filming in brighter lighting conditions.

Ikan Corp markets a set of filters designed as Mavic Air 2 accessories with 3 different filters. It’s the Haida Nano Pro ND-PL kit HD4602. This filter kit fits perfectly on the DJI Mavic Air 2 and the strengths are a 3-stop ND filter, a 4-stop combo ND and C-Pol, and a 5-stop combo ND and C-Pol filters. 

Made from high quality optical glass with multi-coated surfaces, these filters are lightweight and very low profile so your camera and flying operations aren’t affected in any negative way. You want to be sure to use high quality filters with the DJI drone cameras to maximize their excellent image and video quality.

Intelligent Flight Battery

Yes, it comes with a battery, kits may come with 2 or more, but with the relatively limited filming time open to drone users, it seems you can never have enough batteries. When out in the field on a job or having fun, 34 minutes doesn’t feel very long at all. 

Thankfully the DJI Mavic Air 2 has one of the most efficient motors for extending the real flight time to 34 minutes, so your flights don’t feel limited. Still, carrying extra batteries is a fact of life for all digital photography. Being without power means no images, no video footage, no flying.

The battery of choice as DJI Mavic Air 2 accessories is the rechargeable lithium-ion Mavic Air Intelligent Flight Battery. Depending  on what charger you use, batteries recharge in 1 to 2 hours.

Learn More:

• ND Filters for Beginners
• 5 Tips for More Professional-Looking Videos

DJI Smart Controller

Of all of the Mavic Air 2 upgrades, the DJI Smart Controller is one of the most sophisticated. The basic controller works with a later model Android or iOs phone and provides all of the camera and drone functions and features. Upgrading to the DJI Smart Controller provides you with a more sophisticated interface.

The Smart Controller also upgrades the range between stone and controller, up to 10 kilometers. The display is brighter, clearer, and very large, making it easier to fine tune certain controls. 

Buying this smart controller almost doubles the price, so many drone users will be content with using their own smartphone and the basic controller, but when you need more range, a brighter view, and better control, this is the upgrade to look at.

Propeller Guard

Adding a propeller guard and carrying replacement propellers is a smart decision, since both of these are a protection against not being able to operate the drone due to something happening to the propellers. 

Since we’re getting more propellers as part of our kit of DJI Mavic Air 2 accessories, we might as well make the upgrade to their low-noise propellers. An added benefit of these propellers is improved flight time along with lower noise levels and slightly better aerodynamic performance.

Lots of Accessory Options

As far as DJI Mavic Air 2 accessories, we have some other options of beneficial gear from DJI and from aftermarket manufacturers. 

Some other Mavic Air 2 aftermarket accessories to consider for your photo or video outings are high capacity microSD memory cards, battery chargers including a car charger or multiple battery charger, and a hard case or semi-rigid sling pack to carry everything in. 

Learn More:

• How to Edit Videos Like a Pro
• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage

 

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^{photo bydemaerre via iStock}

As a photographer, shooting for video adds opportunities for extra income and extra fun. It also means we may need to learn some new ways of doing things and learn how to use some equipment specially made for video production.

An essential accessory for shooting serious video is a camera cage. A camera cage for photography and videography adds several benefits.

Let’s have a look at some of the reasons you probably have for using a camera cage, as well as some thoughts on how to choose the best camera cage for your camera and shooting style.

More Mounting Points

^{photo byRowan Jordan via iStock}

One of the first things I noticed as I made a rapid transition into professional videography is that my super sophisticated, extremely high quality digital camera was lacking something very essential for high end, paid, or serious videography. Namely, it didn't have nearly enough mounting points for essential gear and the mounting points I could use made me nervous. 

Here’s the thing - unlike still photography, videography requires us to add on extra equipment to our rig in order to capture the best audio and video, and also to make capturing excellent video footage easier and  more productively.

The first thing I noticed is that I definitely needed a better microphone. Regardless of the outstanding audio and video recording capabilities of our cameras, the tiny built-in mics simply aren’t capable of recording superior audio. Think of it in the same way as the built-in flash. Good enough for some things, but pretty much a compromise.

So, I added a high quality shotgun mic that fits in the camera flash hot shoe. Problem solved! But then, I noticed I really needed a good light on camera to provide a good catchlight or as a primary light when on location for filming vlogs or events. 

The camera shoe already has my microphone. Where do I put the LED light? I looked at shoe accessory brackets to multiply my mounting points, but I soon noticed something about that, as well.

Stronger Mounting Points

Putting a double or triple extension in my hot shoe gave me more places to add accessories such as lights and shotgun mics or wireless lavalier mic receivers. 

Then I realized something that made me nervous. This added a lot of weight to that small fitting. Any movement of the camera rig also seemed to add stress because of the position of the accessoires adding possible leverage for twisting, pulling, or even breaking the either the camera hot shoe itself or the camera top plate. Yikes!

I couldn’t imagine adding more things to that poor, tiny hotshoe, such as a larger video monitor for better workflow, wireless video options, or other useful accessories. And where do I add my follow focus system or matte box? 

 

A camera cage takes care of that and more. Plus, you take away all possible stress from the camera hot shoe. A camera cage mounts to the camera tripod mount and everything else fits on the cage. 

The tripod mount is one of the strongest mounting points of any camera, besides, it’s not actually adding stress and weight to that mounting point either. Consider it as the camera fits into the camera cage, and not as attaching the cage to the camera. 

Once it’s in the cage, the camera cage pretty much provides our grabbing spots, too. Let’s take a look at an excellent example at a mirrorless camera cage so you see these things we just discussed.

Learn More:

• What Is a Follow Focus System?
• Basic Slider Techniques
• 3 Things To Look For In a Field Monitor

Ikan Cage for Sony a6500 Mirrorless

Sony mirrorless cameras are awesome machines, capable of professional results for still photography and video productions. Being mirrorless, they have a relatively compact form and you can use them with all sorts of lenses. 

Sony E-mount has scores of lenses made by Sony and third parties plus you add virtually any lens from any maker by means of optional lens mounts adapters.

So, a Sony APS-C mirrorless camera is an awesome tool for video or still photography. Adding the important accessory items, such as an external monitor, microphone system, lights, or anything else is made better and safer with theStratus STR-a6 Mirrorless Camera Cage from Ikan.

It fits closely around the camera and includes a top handle (with its own mounting points), cut outs for accessing battery, memory cards, and A/V connections, has numerous strong mounting points, includes rails for lens accessories, and can fit on any tripod.

Though strong and secure, it is still relatively compact and lightweight. Since it is lightweight, you can also mount it onto a slider or a shoulder mount, nullifying any concerns of choosing a camera cage vs shoulder rigs. You can also expand the camera cage with other accessory handles and mounts, customizing your rig to exactly what you need.

The Stratus STR-a6 camera cage is very reasonably priced, too, so it should fit into a modest and realistic budget for videography gear making it a good candidate for the best camera cage for most needs. Let’s continue with the reasons for using a camera cage.

Adds Protection

In addition to the protection from over-stressing our camera hot shoe, a camera cage also adds a layer of protection to our camera by essentially being an extra outer layer of our camera. A lot of video is shot with action in mind, meaning our cameras may need to be in motion (controlled and steady motion) as well.

A camera cage isn’t a force field, we should still treat our equipment with due care, but it’s nice to be protected from bumps, bangs, scrapes, and maybe even a short fall or two.

Looks Cool

^{photo bycoffeekai via iStock}

I’m being a little factious with the wording, but being perceived well by clients and others is an important part of our branding as a videographer. An air of professionalism is provided by how certain gear is expected to look.

You can provide exceptional video with most of the newer DSLR and mirrorless cameras,  but  for a certain group of people, let’s call them lay people, looking the part makes an impression that allows us to do our job. It may be silly, but it’s a fact of life for smaller video protection teams or individuals.

So you could label this reason as a protection also. Protection from misconceptions of possible clientele.

These 4 signs you need a camera cage are good reasons to look at what’s available for your own camera. Check out camera cages for other camera brands and models at Ikan Corp. 

Learn More:

• How To Transmit Video Wirelessly
• Types of Microphones for Vlogging
• Beginner Videography Terms You Need to Know

 

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^{Photo by Michael Soledad on Unsplash}

Your mirrorless camera is an incredible photography and videography tool. The capabilities of many of the current mirrorless cameras seem virtually boundless. In reality, though, they can’t do it all, not by themselves anyways. Adding some basic accessories can unlock more or your new camera’s potential. 

There are several formats of mirrorless cameras: MFT, such as cameras from Olympus, Panasonic, and Blackmagic. APS-C, with cameras from Fujifilm, Nikon, Sony, Canon, and others. Full-Frame, including Panasonic, Leica, Nikon, Sony, Canon, and Sigma. And several medium format sizes from Fujifilm, Hasselblad, and others. 

These accessories will fit and function on most of the mirrorless cameras. They will also fit, function, and enhance your DSLRs, too. Here are my top five picks for gadgets to upgrade your mirrorless camera. 

Table of Contents:

• A Small But Mighty Filter Set
• A Top-Shelf Gimbal for Video Work
• A Next-Generation Camera Cover
• A Durable (and Budget-Friendly) Camera Strap
• A Pocket-Sized LED Light
• Mirrorless Camera Upgrades Equal Upgraded Use

A Small But Mighty Filter Set

 

The Haida M7 Filter Holder and Drop-In CPL filter is first on the list.

The Haida M7 filter system is an excellent way to have high-quality filters of several types to use on all of your different lenses regardless of the filter diameter of each lens. 

A kit would include the holder itself, whatever filters you choose such as a circular polarizer (CPL) and neutral density (ND) or graduated neutral density (GND), and the lens adapters for each size needed.

Instead of buying separate screw-in filters of each type for each lens size, you can get just one each of these high-quality filters and use them on each lens.

 

A circular polarizer is one of the most useful items in our gear for improving our photos. Polarizers remove reflections from water, glass, plant leaves, and water vapor and dust in the sky. This results in darker skies with good contrast between sky and clouds, and it gives great color saturation and detail in landscape scenes with lots of foliage or water in the view. 

There are many reasons for using Haida ND and GND filters, too. Anytime you need to reduce the exposure value of a scene or balance the light and dark areas of a scene with a huge dynamic range, a neutral density filter will come in very handy. 

Learn More:

• What Do Lens Filters Do?
• Mirrorless Camera Accessories You Need Now

A Top-Shelf Gimbal for Video Work

Ikan EC1 Beholder 3-Axis Gimbal is our next item. Our new mirrorless camera likely has a superb video mode, the only thing holding us back from truly outstanding video is probably our technique. 

High up on our technique concerns is camera stability. When shooting video, unnecessary camera movement during scenes can lower the appeal of our finished video. There’s not much you can do to fix that after shooting either, getting in right while filming is the best procedure.

While you likely already have a good video tripod, it’s when trying to film handheld that the issue is of greatest concern. One of the best options available for filmmakers is a gimbal stabilizer.

Ikan’s EC1 is a powered 3-axis gyro stabilizer that can hold a camera rig weighing up to 4.5 pounds. Much better than the friction type inexpensive stabilizers, the next step up from this gimbal is a SteadyCam type of stabilizer which costs more than my wife’s car.  

The difference in using this gimbal than not is apparent right from the very start. Your videos will be so much smoother than simply holding it by hand could ever be. The cost is a bit more than you might have expected for a good-quality video tripod, but the payback is huge in terms of freedom of movement capturing usable footage.

 

Recommended Videography Reading:

• How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro
• The DSLR Filmmaker's Handbook: Real-World Production Techniques

 

A Next-Generation Camera Cover 

Camera Canopy for mirrorless cameras is such a fantastic idea, I wonder why I didn’t invent it myself! Traditional rain covers can be a little bit fiddly to work with. What makes this rain cover so good is that it isn’t a big plastic bag you stuff the camera in. It’s more like an umbrella for your camera. 

Since your camera is not stuffed in a bag, you actually have clear access to all the regular controls, even a clear view of the viewscreen. My camera is water resistant, for the most part, but I’m still not comfortable with holding it under a running faucet, which is what rainstorms around here can be like. 

But for a typical downpour type of rain, this canopy works great!

A Durable (and Budget-Friendly) Camera Strap

The Holdfast HF Classic Strapis one pretty strap. It comes in two widths - a wide width that distributes the weight better and a slim width that some find more fashionable. 

One of the nice features of these straps is a leather shroud that fits over the stainless steel clasp.  This keeps the metal away from your camera body while also adding an extra layer of security concerning the quick release.

Holdfast also makes a sling strap and a series of classic style camera bags. Most of their bags and straps are made from full-grain leather, some are made from synthetic material, depending on intended usage and style choices.

Whatever accessories you choose to buy from Holdfast, you’ll get a premium product that was hand-made in the U.S.A. And when you shoot with a small mirrorless camera, one of their hand-made HF Classic Straps is a must!

A Pocket-Sized LED Light

 

The LitraTorch 2.0is a compact, battery-powered continuous LED light that is necessary for video recording since the built-in flash on your camera is not useful for video, only for still imaging.

The charge can last up to 7 hours in low power mode, about a couple of hours on high. It recharges via a USB cable. LED lights are the choice for most videographers needing portable lighting. They operate much cooler than quartz or incandescent bulbs and have a steady color balance.

The LitraTorch is also very compact. If needed, you could mount this on the camera itself by means of the accessory/hot shoe. A small bracket is another option that videographers can use to hold the light in line with the camera. Since it runs cool, you could hold the light yourself in a pinch. 

As an added bonus, you can also pair this tiny light with a GoPro style action cam on a multi mount or a grip. I guess the GoPro counts as mirrorless, doesn’t it?!

Mirrorless Camera Upgrades Equal Upgraded Use

^{Photo by Andrew Seaman on Unsplash} 

The primary reason to implement any of these upgrades is to better your ability to gather excellent video and superb still images. 

Many mirrorless cameras have superior video capabilities compared to the DSLRs of the same brand. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been using your mirrorless camera, improvement is always available. Same thing applies to our still photography. 

Some of these gadgets are a virtual necessity for certain styles of videography and photography. Others make using an existing capability easier to accomplish. Try them out!

Learn More:

• Small Camera Accessories That Are Worth Their Weight In Gold
• Awesome Camera Accessories

 

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^{Photo by Ales Krivec on Unsplash}

There’s nothing like a crisp, cool morning, a cup of coffee and hours of shooting landscapes. I’m lucky enough to have travelled all over the world shooting landscapes for my clients, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way.  

Namely, the landscape photography accessories you bring on any trip can make or break it. But, since there are thousands of landscape photography accessories, it can be difficult to choose which ones are important enough to drag all the way to Bolivia, or on an 8-hour hike through Glacier National Park.

This is an overview of the accessories for landscape photography that I always bring with me. 

Snaptiles just released a plastic-framed photo tile that allows you to swap out the photo in each tile. See it here!

Table of Contents

• A Good Polarizing Filter
• Protection From the Elements
• A Sturdy Tripod
• A Bright, Compact Light
• A Weather-Resistant Camera Bag
• Bonus: A Fun Way to Display Your Favorite Photos

A Good Polarizing Filter

^{photo by Алексей Филатов via iStock} 

I write so much about polarizing filters on PhotographyTalk because they’re important in an age of Photoshop and Lightroom. 

Though I process my images as much as the next guy, nothing can replace the effect a polarizer can have on your images.  

Polarizing filters make the sky a deeper blue, reduce glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces, and they reduce atmospheric haze.

And there’s a reason you can now purchase a polarizing filter for your iPhone camera.

Now, it’s also important to remember that not all polarizing filters work the same…

I always recommend Kenko when I’m discussing polarizing filters. The Kenko Nyumon Slim Circular Polarizer is cheap for its quality at $45. This polarizer is multi-coated to protect itself from the environment, think harsh wind that throws sand at it or inadvertent finger prints. 

It also features a mounting ring that never gets snagged, which is a godsend considering what working with cheaper polarizers means (spending 30 seconds screwing and unscrewing the filter onto your lens). 

This is a great example of “you don’t have to spend a lot to get a lot.” A great polarizer is something everyone needs, and at this price point, you can afford it!

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

Protection from the Elements 

^{photo by Sandra Dombrovsky via iStock} 

When you think about landscape photography accessories, chances are you’re thinking about how to prevent yourself from getting soaked and thinking less about how to prevent your equipment from getting soaked.

After all, everyone just uses that big plastic bag to prevent their cameras from getting rained on and you’re going to be miserable all day if you’re wet in near freezing conditions.

But, there are better options to protect your camera from the rain. 

I bought a Camera Canopy a few years ago and never looked back. 

Camera Canopy is a technology that prevents both your DSLR and your mirrorless camera from getting rained on, snowed on or sleeted on. It’s made of two retractable shields, meaning you can adjust the length of protection as easily as you adjust your lens. 

It easily fastens onto your camera’s hot shoe and it gives you a complete free range of motion that plastic bags will never accommodate. 

Plus, Camera Canopy is a relatively cheap investment into your landscape photography at just $88 for your DSLR or $60 for your mirrorless. 

Learn More:

• Ways to Protect Your Camera Gear 
• Innovative Photography Gadgets 

A Sturdy Tripod 

^{Photo by insung yoon on Unsplash} 

Have you ever had your tripod fall over with your camera attached? Sadly, I have and I’m now on a personal mission to make sure it never happens to another photographer. 

When you’re on top of a mountain, facing 40mph wind, just about anything can happen and I’m going to be more concerned for my own safety than the safety of my camera if it comes down to it. 

While I’m of course not advocating for shooting in dangerous weather conditions, sometimes these conditions produce the best photos, and for these times you need a heavy duty tripod in your landscape photography gear. 

Ikan’s 2 Stage Aluminum Tripod is by far the best tripod for landscape photography I’ve ever found. 

First of all, it’s solid and structurally sound. It has multiple leg stages with individual leg locks at each. 

It also features incredible anti-slip pads/spike covers on each leg that can be removed when they aren’t needed.  

At $170, this tripod will last you a lifetime and do so without breaking the bank. 

A Bright, Compact Light

^{Photo by 2 Bro’s Media on Unsplash} 

While golden hour is the hotspot for landscape photographers, sometimes you just need to keep shooting. 

After all, there’s no sense in traveling as much as you do if you aren’t going to take complete advantage of it. 

While I use my LED light to fill the foreground for beautiful twilight shots, I also use LED lights to be a little more creative with light painting.

^{Photo by Sean Pierce on Unsplash} 

Light painting is the art of lighting up specific portions of your landscape at night, usually with an array of different colors, while capturing the night sky in the background.

It’s beautiful and a very specific niche in landscape photography that I think everyone should try at least once.

But, in order to do so you first need the light.

Litra sort of rules the compact lighting game. Their Torch LitraPro is no different. It’s the LED light I have and it’s the one I recommend to all of my friends.

Firstly, you can control the light from an app on your phone, which is one of the first qualities I look for in a compact light. I want the equipment to do as much work as possible so I can focus on the photography.  

It’s only 5” long, so I can throw it in my camera bag, and it’s bi-color. It’s also a fully dimmable light.

Plus, Litra understands remote shooting better than most companies, so this light can last for up to 10 hours on one battery charge on low, or up to 1 hour on high. 

Finally, it’s waterproof. What’s not to love?  

Learn More:

• 4 Easy Landscape Photography Tips You Need to Know 
• My Ideal Landscape Photography Kit 

A Weather-Resistant Camera Bag 

While your canvas camera bag might work in the city, it’s not going to work in the snowy mountains of Colorado, and if you’re planning to do landscape photography for a long time then it may be time to upgrade. 

Out of all of these must-have landscape photography accessories, you’re not going to get very far without a weather-resistant camera bag. Think about it… there’s no point in protecting your camera while you’re shooting if you’re not protecting it while you’re traveling to and from your shoot site.

Holdfast’s Sightseer Backpack is made out of waxed canvas and comes with waterproof zippers, so it keeps the rain out while still protecting your gear with fleece lining. 

This backpack is also the only camera bag in the world that comes with an integrated camera slider which allows you to have access to your camera at all times.  

While any Holdfast purchases are an investment, this Sightseer backpack, which is sold for $800, comes with a lifetime warranty. If you ask me, it’s a much better idea than buying a $100 bag every year for the rest of your life. 

Bonus: A Fun Way to Display Your Favorite Photos

Don't get me wrong...I love a nice, big print of a landscape photo.

But sometimes you need to switch things up a little bit and have ways to show off your best shots in a unique way. For me, that means using Snaptiles.

Just a couple of months ago, I talked about why Snaptiles won me over on my Best of 2019 list. In short, Snaptiles photo tiles offer an innovative way to display multiple photos without damaging your wall.

Here's how they work...

You attach an anchor piece to the wall using four adhesive strips. Then, you can add up to 12 Snaptiles photo tiles to the anchor image using the rare earth magnets in the tiles. In other words, you can have a complete photo display with zero holes in the wall to show for it. Nice!

If you want to create a much larger display of photo tiles, you can simply use the four thumbtacks you get with your Snaptiles to add more support. And those four thumbtacks enable you to display up to 30 images. That's not bad at all!

What's more, since the Snaptiles photo tiles are connected with magnets, you can create all kinds of shapes in your photo display. You can also change the way the photos are displayed as often as you like.

So, with a traditional large format print, you're "stuck" looking at the same image each day, which isn't a bad thing! But having the ability to look at up to 30 of your favorite landscape photos and having the ability to change how that display looks in a matter of minutes is an awfully attractive proposition, don't you think?

Get all the details on Snaptiles and see why these photo tiles are a must for displaying your landscape photos.

Learn More:

• Tips for Picking a Camera Bag
• How to Carry a Lot of Camera Gear

  

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 ^{photo byTzido via iStock}

Creating professional-looking videos is available to anyone who wants to learn how to make professional videos at home by using simple video techniques and basic video lighting and equipment. 

With that in mind, we came up with some simple to implement video tips to give you the ability to create professional-looking videos with just a little bit of extra effort.  

What’s cool about these video tips is that you really don’t have to spend any extra money to take advantage of these video techniques if you already have a videography kit. We’ll also give you some recommendations for gear if you don’t have a full kit yet. 

Stabilize Your Filming

 ^{photo bymeatbull via iStock}

A lot of videographers like me have started out as photographers and we tend to carry over certain techniques and mindsets from still photography to our new efforts in videography. In many types of photography, we rely on our well trained hand holding technique and camera features such as image stabilization for combating camera motion for capturing sharp images. 

When engaging in videography, we should support our cameras almost all the time instead of relying on hand holding techniques and tech features. Shaky camera footage is one of the most common and obvious differences between good professional-looking video and video that doesn’t look professional.

The solution is to put our camera on a good video tripod. In addition to keeping the camera steady, video tripods have fluid heads which smooth out any panning and tilting motion that you may have to make while filming. 

If you are shopping for an excellent video tripod with a fluid head for helping you make professional-looking videos is the Aluminum Tripod Kit with GH08 fluid head with counterbalancing and twin tube legs, shown above.

Light It Up

 ^{photo bylapandr via iStock}

When looking at professional videos or motion picture scenes, our brains go into the mode that we are seeing realism, regardless of how realistic it is, because of the live action nature of motion pictures makes us feel like real life viewing.

Since our brains compensate rapidly and automatically for variations in lighting, when filming a scene for video, we need to consider that our audience is expecting, consciously or not, to see most of the objects in the scene.

This subliminal expectation of realism requires our video lighting to be excellent to qualify as professional-looking video. Once you have the right lights or some kind of light modifiers, the setup becomes rather straightforward for most scenes, unless you’re trying for some sort of artsy look which is also professional-looking.

A good assist is to have the right type of video lighting. If you haven't settled on a video lighting kit yet, take a good look at the  Ikan Mylo Mini B-Color 2-Point LED Light Kit with stands and barn doors. It is very clean video lighting with a CRI of 95 for professional video results. 

Learn More:

• Video Tripod Buying Guide
• Lighting Options for Recording Video at Home
• Types of Tripod Heads

Use Natural Composition

 ^{photo bymixetto via iStock}

Professional-looking video tends to follow the same rules of composition as still imaging. The main one we all learned even before picking up our first camera is the Rule of Thirds. 

Other rules will work too, but most professional video leans heavily on the Rule of Thirds composition technique easily obtained natural feeling harmony and balance. Partly because it keeps us from looking to the edges of the frame, instead, keeping our attention fairly centered but with a realistic appearance.

While those other rules will also provide interesting video, sticking with the Rule of Thirds for most of the scenes keeps the feel very natural and balanced which results in professional-looking video footage.

Edit for Short Scene Length

 ^{photo byEvgeniyShkolenko via iStock}

Average scene length and average shot length are interesting concepts to learn about. You can really spend a lot of time editing for professional-;looking videos, but the results are worth it. Be careful with the cuts and dissolves, though. The idea is to hold the viewer’s attention without drawing attention to the method used. 

Average scene and shot length are important concepts for professional-looking videos, but simply adding in B-Roll footage can be a good start for creative editing that holds the attention of your audience. Be careful not to over edit or make very obvious edits.

Edit Sound, Too

 ^{photo bybrightstars via iStock}

One of the top things that separates amateur video from professional video is the quality of the audio track. Using an off camera microphone of some sort is part of the cure for poor or average audio recording. 

While editing audio is vitally important, you need to have good audio recorded in the first place so you have something worth working with. A shotgun mic, cardioid mic, or wireless lavalier mics will record much better than our camera’s built-in microphone.

If you are still searching for your off camera microphone, consider wireless lavalier mics like the Comica Wireless Dual Mic System with two transmitters and one receiver. 

Let’s See Those Eyes

 ^{photo byfizkes via iStock}

When interviewing someone for your vlog or YouTube channel, or when filming some sort of creative scene, be careful of your subject’s eyes. A common trick for naturalness and professional-looking video is to be sure we can see both eyes of the subject.

It’s another one of those odd video tips that seems trivial and ntpicky at first, but if you compare footage of a scene with the subject showing only one eye to the camera with footage of both of their eyes being visible, the more professional-looking video will have both eyes showing, which makes the viewer feel more comfortable when watching. Try it out for yourself.

You can, and should, still vary the placement of the subject and their position and where their gaze is directed, simply try to show both eyes (or at least part of the second eye) when arranging your scene composition and subject position and posing.

Other Video Tips

 ^{photo bybrightstars via iStock}

Other tips for how to make professional videos at home can be found in other articles on our website. Some of the subjects are capturing B-Roll solo, using different lenses, and creative editing techniques.

Some of the techniques will include buying guides of suggested equipment, but almost all of them can probably be accomplished with the equipment you already own. Your own projects can be professional-looking videos with just a few minor adjustments to your video techniques.

Learn More:

• How To Shoot Quality Video Footage
• Beginner Videography Terms You Need to Know
• Tips for Better DSLR Video

 

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I love soft panel LED lights, they’re some of the most versatile studio lights for photography and videography. 

As photography lights, it’s hard to beat a good LED panel light. Not only are they dual duty since they can be used as studio lights for photography and for a video production, but the best soft panel LED lights are also adjustable, oftentimes continuously variable, with regards to both power levels and color temps.

Benefits of LED Lights for Photography

Besides those benefits of LED lights for photography already mentioned above, some other features that make them so wonderful are that they are generally smaller and lighter than other lighting  counterparts and they run so much cooler. 

If you’ve ever tried using continuous light quartz lamps or incandescent photo floods, you know how quickly these lamps can heat up. And wow are they hot! Hot enough to make human subjects uncomfortable and virtually unusable for pets or newborn photography. 

LED lamps are so much cooler in operation, plus they are also more efficient. Being efficient means that many of them can even run off of batteries, making them a great choice for in the field lighting. Usually these will make use of Sony camcorder style lithium-ion batteries, offering usage times varying from 30 to 90 minutes.

Ikan Corp Video Accessories

When shopping for or recommending professional or other serious use video accessories, I like to look at Ikan Corp first for a couple of reasons.

The company is run and staffed by professional photographers and videographers, so all of the items they sell have already been vetted by serious users. In fact, many of the items were either designed or made by Ikan themselves or found from other makers for very specific uses and needs.

Another benefit of this business model is that we, the consumer, will be able to find extremely high quality accessories at very reasonable prices. In fact, many items may be up to about half the price of comparable items from other brands.

Learn More:

• What Is DMX Lighting?
• Why You Need a Field Monitor

Lyra LCX21 Soft Panel LED Light with DMX

An excellent example of all that is the soft panel LED light from Lyra, the LCX21. It’s a soft panel light with a beam angle of 110 degrees and is variable in both power and color temperature. Plus it’s able to be used within a DMX studio system.

DMX is a useful way to control lighting and lighting effects with everything balanced and controlled from a central control panel or program. 

The Lyra LCX21 has a CRI of 97, meaning that the color and quality of light is extremely high. This also helps in repeatability from session to session, since a higher CRI tends to stay consistent during the lifetime of the lighting fixture.

Color temperature variation is from an extremely warm 2800K all the way up to a very cool 10,000K. So you can blend this light into any ambient light situation or use this variability to create a specific look or feel for your still images or video productions.

Being a professional use model, the Lyra LCX21 is larger, heavier, and more expensive than lights designed for casual use. But being an LED panel from Ikan, the size, weight, and price is still very reasonable considering how powerful and rugged this lamp is.

You are sure to find many uses for this soft panel LED light in your studio for either still photography or videography and it will also liven up any in the field on location photo or video shoots of yours. 

Learn More:

• How To Transmit Video Wirelessly
• How To Use a Follow Focus System
• Basic Slider Techniques

 

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 ^{photo byPeopleImages via iStock}

Lighting for portrait photography can be simple, sophisticated, or anywhere in between. It’s really a wide open field of possibilities, equipment, techniques, and configurations. Recently I’ve been incorporating LED lights into my portrait photography lighting to take advantage of several benefits. 

 As I see it, there are several nice advantages of LED lighting for portraits. They are bright and clean, LED lights run cool, they are continuous lights, and LED lights are efficient enough to be powered by battery or wall current.

Bright and Clean Light Output

One of the top reasons I like LED lights for portraits as well as for my videography is because the high quality LED lights are very bright for their power consumption and the color emitted is clean. 

When I say a light source is clean, I’m referring to what is measured by the CRI, color rendering index, of the light. CRI tells us how natural the light allows colors to appear. A higher CRI is better than lower, with 100 being the best score.

Lights used for photography and videography should have a CRI in the 90 and above range, with many fine studio and portable LED lights coming in at 96 and 97. TheStryder Fanless Bi-Color LED Fresnel Light from Ikan is an excellent example of a high quality studio with a CRI of 96 and 97 defending on the color temp used.

Cool Operation

With continuous lights, the longer they stay on, the hotter they get. If you’ve ever worked with incandescent floods or HMI lights, they can get so hot that you could injure yourself if you touched the bulb. Plus, the bulb life is often very short.

 LED lights stay safe to the touch and they last a long, long time. Even the versions of lights such as the Fresnel light mentioned above, which use a lens system to concentrate the light beam, will stay comfortable to handle when they’re made with LED bulbs.

 Learn More:

• How to Position Lights for Photography
• Types of Portrait Lights
• What Is Fresnel Lighting?

Continuous Lighting

Continuous lighting for portrait photography has a great benefit for beginners to lighting, which I also enjoy a lot. One of the main advantages of LED lighting for portraits is that you can see the effect of your lighting choices as you set up. 

Many studio strobes have modeling lights, but a lot of compact portable flash units don’t. Being able to see exactly where a shadow falls or how much brighter one light is than the other makes varying lighting configurations much easier and quicker to do.

Before LED lights became common in photography, using any continuous light source for portrait work was not often recommended, primarily due to the heat involved which would make portrait subjects uncomfortable. Especially would be problematic with kids or pets as the subjects.

But with the cool running LED lights, that issue is pretty much eliminated. This is really advantageous with multiple light configurations, such as when adding in a fresnel light like the DMX controllable Stryder Fanless Bi-Color LED Fresnel Light which opens up many possibilities of lighting variations in portrait photography.

DMX controlled continuous lighting is a standard for digital videography studios, as it allows precise control and timing of light levels and special effects. 

Flexible Power Options

Continuously on lighting with incandescent bulbs or HMI lights consumes a lot of power, so plugging in to the wall socket is often the only choice with many of these types of lights. Portable flash units are portable because of their being operated by batteries. 

Going back to the Stryder Fanless Bi-Color LED Fresnel Light from Ikan, since it’s an LED light, the power consumption is efficient enough that it can be powered by either wall plug-ins or by batteries. 

Price

I find that the professional portrait photography lighting options of LED lights are usually much more reasonably priced than some of the other gear cinematographers like to use. 

Large HMI lights like what you see on TV and movie sound stages can easily soar into a high figure per light and even the smaller ones intended for more modest studios are still quite expensive. When you absolutely need what those lights offer, though, usability triumphs over pricing concerns.

Most of the LED lighting for portrait photography and videography are much more budget friendly. I have enjoyed using, reviewing, and even purchasing for my own use the top notch gear from Ikan. The company was set up by active videographers and photographers, so the gear is designed to meet the needs of these shooters.

Since they either make or design their own equipment, Ikan is able to bring to the market very high quality gear for lower prices than many of the other brands out there. Check out their full line of lights, filters, tripods, and specialty gear.

Learn More:

• What Is DMX Lighting?
• What To Look For In a Monopod
• Awesome Camera Accessories

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 ^{photo byCoffeeAndMilk via iStock}

Using a softbox for portrait photography will result in pleasant lighting for most subjects, plus the gear and techniques used can also be applied to other types of photography such as small product photography for online listings.

In this tutorial, learn a few key benefits of investing in a softbox for your portrait photos.

Portrait Photography Tips

 ^{photo bybrightstars via iStock}

Making great portraits of any subject is within the grasp of any photographer with proper implementation of portrait photography techniques and using good portrait photography gear. 

It is a definite rule in photography that it’s not the gear that makes a photo, it’s the photographer. But sometimes certain types of equipment make the job easier. Some portrait photography gear allows us to use certain techniques for creating better portraits.

The lighting equipment for portrait photography can be used in various different configurations for several styles of portrait lighting. A softbox is one of the best lighting tools for many portrait lighting uses.

What is a Softbox?

 ^{photo byRawpixel via iStock}

Light comes in many flavors, photographically, these differences can really affect our images. Besides the color temperature of a light source, being hard or soft sources will also alter the end results. 

Hard light creates distinct or hard shadows, while soft light diminishes the harshness of the contrast between light and shadow. Instead of the word soft, you might think about it as being diffused. A  broader light source is often more diffused than a pint light source. 

One way to create softer light is to make a light both broader and more diffused, which a lightbox does by means of how it’s made. A softbox is a frame of diffusing material surrounding a light that makes the resulting light emitting unit bigger and softer.

Here is an example of a softbox from Ikan for a specific light used by many videographers and portrait photographers, the Rayden Half X1 LED light. 

You can get a softbox for almost any size and style of lighting equipment you might already have. Here is another softbox, this one made for a compact iLED144 light from Ikan that fits directly on a camera or on a camera cage.

What you see is a large front panel of diffusing material, some internal reflective material to maximize the output of the light, and a frame to hold it all together. That is the essence of how to make a softbox for portrait photography.

Learn More:

• 3 Types of Lights for Video Production
• What Is Fresnel Lighting?
• What Is a Camera Cage?

Why Use a Softbox?

 ^{photo byAzmanJaka via iStock}

Why would we use a softbox for portrait photography or for the other types of photography and videography we might do? A softbox makes light softer which means it can be very flattering for many subjects and can eliminate or lesson contrasty shadows which can either obscure or greatly exaggerate features. 

When discussing lighting equipment for portrait photography and the term features comes up, we’re usually talking about the nose and chin. Eyebrow ridges, cheekbones, lips, ears, and hair also factor in, as well as the lines on faces that naturally occur with certain expressions or wrinkles and blemishes caused by damage or age.

Softening the light doesn’t blur the subject like a soft focus filter would, but it does mean that those harsh shadows that make a nose look larger than it really is or the shadows inside the skin wrinkles that accentuate them are lessened. Thus the resulting images will be more flattering for the portrait subject.

Of course, some portrait lighting configurations are designed around harsher, harder light, such as Rembrandt lighting, but for the general portrait portrait market, softer light set ups are often favored.

How to Use a Softbox

 ^{photo byalvarez via iStock}

Learning how to use a softbox for portrait photography is simple. Simply replace whatever you’re using as a key light, the main light, with a softbox. Using a softbox on both the key light and the fill light will result in a flatter light than other lighting configurations, so you might do some experimenting, see how soft you need to go.

A two light setup with softboxes is a good method for many types of small products, such as you might be shooting for listing on a shopping website. It’s useful for product photography since the softer light shows details of the items better than contrasty lighting.

A softbox can be used with any type of light, either a flash or continuous light, but you should monitor closely when using one with incandescent bulbs since they can increase heat build up. Using LED continuous lights or a flash greatly reduces that concern. 

There are many advantages to using a softbox for portrait photography, try it out yourself to see how it can improve your portrait and small product images.

Learn More:

• Awesome Camera Accessories
• What Is DMX Lighting?
• Quick & Simple Video Lighting Tips

 

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  ^{photo bybortnikau via iStock}

Camera Accessories

Whether you’re on the road because you love to travel or you’re doing it out of necessity for work, you want to have camera accessories that can come along with you without being a burden.

Fortunately, recent years have seen awesome camera accessories made available that are small and portable, yet still pack a mighty punch. 

Below, I’ve outlined a few of my favorite on-the-go camera accessories that will make your photography trips much easier.

Table of Contents

• LitraTorch 2.0
• E-Image EK610 Professional Compact Tripod
• Haida NanoPro Circular Polarizing Filter
• HEX Ranger Sling Bag 
• Exposure X5

The LitraTorch 2.0 is a Must-Have for Travel Photographers 

If you’ve spent any amount of time learning about photography, you know that good light is the key to getting a good photograph.

And while it’s perfectly fine to label oneself as a “natural light photographer,” there are times when natural light just won’t cut it.

But if you need to be highly mobile, the last thing you want to do is carry around light stands, softboxes, diffusers, and all sorts of lighting gear. 

Instead, stay mobile and use the LitraTorch 2.0, an absolutely incredible light that will shock you with its power and quality of illumination.

 

I have this little guy (that’s it in the photo above, just above the lens) and it has been a Godsend as I get more and more into on-location work. 

It has 16 LEDs that put out 800 lumens of light. Considering it’s just 1.5 inches square, that’s an incredible amount of light!

Since it weighs just three ounces, it’s not like you’ll be bogged down with heavy gear, either.

In fact, you can pick up a handful of these things, throw them in your camera bag, and not notice a difference in the weight you’re carrying.

Better still, the LitraTorch 2.0 is adjustable, so you can set it at 100 lumens, 450 lumens, or 800 lumens to suit the situation. 

No matter the light output, this thing has beautiful, crisp, flicker-free light at a color temperature of 5700K. 

With a CRI of 90+ and TLCI of 92, you begin to get a picture of just how superb this little light really is!

Add in durable construction, waterproofness to 60 feet, a magnet for mounting it to metallic surfaces, and two ¼-20 mounts, and you have the makings of the perfect little light.

Learn more about the LitraTorch 2.0

Learn More:

• LitraTorch 2.0 Review 
• Photography Lighting Equipment Worth Checking Out 

Save Space With the E-Image MA600 Monopod 

 

A means of stabilizing the camera is a must for every photographer, but what you don’t want is a big, bulky, heavy tripod that you have to carry around from one shoot location to the next. 

The E-Image MA600 Monopod is a great solution for on-the-go photographers that simply don’t have room for a traditional tripod.

At just 3.1 pounds, this monopod is lightweight, and with just a single leg, it’s form factor is much smaller than a tripod, thereby giving you more room in your camera bag for other gear.

This monopod can support an astonishing 44 pounds of gear, so whether you have a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or a large video camera, you’ll get all the support you need.

Made of aluminum, the MA600 monopod is strong and durable, yet more budget-friendly than carbon fiber options. 

The flip-lock design of the leg locks makes setup a breeze and quick adjustments easy as well.

There’s a soft foam grip and a strap at the top of the monopod to give you multiple points of securing it while shooting. 

It can extend to nearly 75-inches yet folds down to little more than 25-inches for easy transport. And with a base that spreads 16-inches, this monopod offers superb stability, even if you’re panning to track a subject.

Learn more about the E-Image MA600 Monopod

Learn More:

• Tips for Better DSLR Video 
• Top Accessories for Nikon Z7 

Step Up Your Photography Game With a Haida NanoPro Circular Polarizing Filter

When you’re on the move, it’s important to shed weight when you can. 

One of the ways I’ve done that as of late is to ditch my giant filter kit and roll with just one filter - my Haida NanoPro Circular Polarizer. 

Of all my filters, this one is the most invaluable simply because of the many benefits I gain from using it.

 ^{photo by DieterMeyrl via iStock} 

As all polarizers do, this thing boosts contrast in the sky, minimizes glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces, and reduces atmospheric haze.

In all these cases, my landscape photos benefit from stronger colors, improved clarity, and gorgeous contrast. 

But not all polarizers are made alike, so it’s important to invest in one that offers the highest-quality results. Haida does just that.

The NanoPro coating on this filter offers a number of benefits, including making cleaning an easier task. That’s because dust, dirt, smudges, and moisture are repelled thanks to ten (yes...ten!) layers of coatings.

What’s more, the NanoPro coating has anti-reflective properties to ensure your photos are as clean and crisp as possible.

With high-quality optical glass, a lightweight 5mm aluminum mount, and side knurling that allows for easier and more precise adjustments, this polarizer is definitely a camera accessory that takes up very little space in your bag, but is worth its weight in gold.

Learn more about the Haida NanoPro Circular Polarizing Filter

Learn More:

• How to Improve Landscape Photography 
• Mountain Photography Tips 

Carry Tons of Gear Without Feeling Weighed Down With the HEX Ranger Sling Bag

When you’re ready to head to points unknown, you need a camera bag that can fit loads of gear, but that isn’t big and bulky and difficult to carry.

Enter the HEX Ranger DSLR Sling Bag…

I have to say that I was completely blown away by this bag the first time I laid eyes on it when I met the folks behind HEX at their Los Angeles offices.

I’ve been a Peak Design guy for a long time, and if you know Peak Design, you know the quality that they put out.

But, man, HEX has taken it to another level! 

For starters, it’s a compact bag at just 1.3 pounds and 14.5"L x 7.25"W x 4.75"H, yet I can fit everything from my 10 liter Peak Design Sling Bag into this 8 liter Ranger bag.

Why?

It’s simple - HEX has eliminated all the unused space from this bag, which gives you tons of carrying capacity without the bulk.

But don’t think that because it’s slim and trim that it isn’t loaded with features.

 

This bag has collapsible interior dividers that allows you to customize what gear you carry. The dividers can fold up or be removed completely, which allows the bag to lay completely flat. That’ll come in handy on your travels, for sure!

There are pockets galore, too, including a front-access organizer for the small things you need, a faux fur-lined sleeve for your tablet, and tons of velcro stash pockets. There’s even side adjustable load straps and an adjustable bottom carry strap to bring along more gear when you need it!

Perhaps the best thing about this bag is how it fits.

It’s snug to your body, so it doesn’t knock around as you walk, nor does it pose a threat to slide off and hit someone as you pass by.

It’s super easy to adjust and grab your gear thanks to the YKK zippers with metal pulls. The genuine Cordura material is great looking and durable too.

HEX simply impressed the heck out of me with this bag, which is why it’s my go-to travel bag now!

Learn more about the Hex Ranger DSLR Sling Bag

Learn More:

• Top 5 Camera Sling Bags

Save Time Editing With Exposure X5

^{photo by lechatnoir via iStock}

I enjoy editing my photos as much as the next guy, but when I'm on the go, I don't want to be in the hotel room slumped over my computer editing photos for hours on end. Instead, I want to be out exploring and shooting!

Exposure X5 lets me do that thanks to its ability to streamline my workflow when it comes to organizing and editing my photos.

In particular, there are three features (there are many, many more features, by the way) I especially like that make this some of my favorite photography software...

First, I appreciate the fact that Exposure includes hundreds of presets (like the one shown below). This enables me to add looks to my photos with just one click. In many situations, the presets are just what the doctor ordered, but if I need to tweak them, I can do so quickly and easily.

I can also save the presets that I customize and reuse them again in the future. How cool is that?!

Second, Exposure is just dead-easy to use with an intuitive layout that makes editing images a breeze.

If need be, you can customize the workspace to better suit your needs, too. On top of that Photoshop and Lightroom plug-in support is included so you can more seamlessly migrate your images into Exposure.

The third feature I really love about Exposure X5 is that it allows you to quickly transition from editing images to organizing images without having to switch modules.

Speaking of organizing, you can create smart collections of images based on criteria you specify and use keywords for further organization. You can even choose to retain or remove keywords during image export and import keyword sets directly from Lightroom.

In other words, Exposure X5 is simply a well-designed, beautifully thought-out photo editor and management system all bundled into one easy-to-use workspace.

When you're on the go and time is of the essence, you can't ask for more from your imaging software!

Get a free 30-day trial of Exposure X5 to see just how awesome it is.

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Digital photographers have many amazing options opened up to them by advancing camera technology. One of the greatest things I love about this new age of digital cameras is the fantastic videography capabilities of our new cameras.

Now, some of you are already videography experts, so you may not need to learn all about sliders and basic slider techniques. But if you were like me and an expert in still photography who jumped into doing simple video shots somewhat recently, read on.

What Is a Slider?

^{photo byselimaksan via iStock}

A slider is a device that allows your camera to move while you are recording. The motion is different from the panning or tilting motion, it is movement across a path. That path can be from side to side, front to back, or diagonally. 

Essentially, a camera slider is a small scale dolly with its own built in track for movement along a short path. Camera dollies are used in major motion picture or television productions that use large crews. A slider can be used by a one man operation.

^{photo bygdagys via iStock}

Cinema camera sliders can cost from thousands of dollars to multiple tens of thousands of dollars and require an extra person, sometimes two or three, to operate them. Now, here is an example of a single person operation camera slider:

 

Camera sliders like the Ikan ES70 27” carbon fiber slider are light enough to be easily transported and set up all by ourselves, can be operated with easy to implement camera slider techniques, and cost about the same as a decent simple prime lens or a high quality video light.

Why Use a Slider?

In one word: motion. Videography is a modern evolution of motion picture photography or cinematography. It is movie making. Back in the mid to late 1800s when this art and science first started, it was a big deal. Motion pictures present on screen a realistic representation of the world that even the best still image can never do.

With much of my still photography, I am striving to keep my camera still. For motion filming, videography, I am presenting movement to my audience and smooth camera movement can add to the art of the motion picture.

Why not simply lock the video camera down like I do with still photography? That would ensure a steady view. But, unlike a still image, a video recording interacts differently with the viewer’s brain.

As we watch the world in action around, we are constantly moving ourselves, even if in very small ways. For instance, you may be sitting in a chair but your head is moving, your eyes are moving, you probably adjust yourself from time to time in the chair. 

When viewing a video that is a static view, we tend to get bored pretty quickly. No matter how exciting or interesting the dialog is, the visual element also needs to adequately engage the viewer. Panning, tilts, zoom, and physically repositioning the camera can accomplish this task for us. (Shooting B-Roll and good editing also helps.) 

Learn More:

• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage
• Tips for Better DSLR Video
• Plan a Solid Video Shoot With These Pre-Production Tips

Scene Length / Shot Length

^{photo bylisegagne via iStock}

Most of our simple video shots won’t need to adhere to the finely tuned crafting of scene and shot lengths like we see on TV or in the theater, but we can still incorporate some ideas from these disciplines. 

Despite what our preconceived notions may tell us, scene length and shot length in cinema and TV are very short. A scene is a part of a story or or production that is somewhat like a subheading in an article or outline. A shot is a piece of the action filmed without a cut.

The average scene length in the last 40 years of movies varies from 1 to 20 minutes but evens out at about 3 minutes. The average shot length within the scene is much shorter, 2 to 12 seconds. That’s right! Less than 12 seconds.

Now, for my own video productions, I’m not going to edit that heavily. It would take me weeks to create a 5 minute instructional video all by myself if I tried. That’s where a camera slider like the Ikan ES70 comes in. 

By adding dollying slider motion to my shots, I can get away with much longer shot lengths for my type of video productions. Camera slider footage allows me to edit less and yet still have good viewer engagement.

How to Use a Slider

Now that we studied the films of Martin Scorsese, Bong Joon-ho, and Greta Gerwig for shot and scene length, let’s look at camera operation and basic slider techniques. 

The Ikan ES70 slider can be mounted on a tripod, a table, or the ground. We attach our camera to it with a geared or fluid video head and then we’re ready to shoot. There are three main types of slider or dolly shots we can readily incorporate into our videography workflow.

Side to Side

^{photo bymixetto via iStock}

Perhaps the most simple of basic slider techniques,  moving the camera from one side of the slider to the other accomplishes a lot of viewer engaging motion with little effort and fuss for us. 

In an instructional video, we could slide over to the next subject or the next part of an item we're teaching. Having a longer slider like the 27” of the ES70 is very beneficial as the longer slide appears more natural.

Front to Back

^{photo by dpmike via iStock}

Or vice versa, this movement can replace or enhance zooming in or out. It’s really useful for transitioning from an opening or establishing shot to the actual action of the scene.

Diagonal

^{photo byAnton Minin via iStock}

Adding an interesting twist is diagonal movement, either deep or shallow angles in addition to the 45 degrees that readily comes to mind.

Up and Down

^{photo byisil terzioglu via iStock}

Just like the side to side motion but in a vertical plane instead of a horizontal one. You will probably need to attach the slider to a tripod or camera stand for this camera slider technique.

Combining Motions

^{photo bywelcomia via iStock}

Going beyond basic slider techniques, you can combine follow focus, zooming, panning, and slider technique for camera slider footage that will blow you away with how well it engages the end viewer compared to merely putting the camera on top of a tripod.

^{photo byOmadbek Nabiev via iStock}

Current DSLRs and mirrorless digital cameras have outstanding quality and features which you can use to create fantastic video.  

Learn More:

• 5 Tips For More Professional-Looking Video
• How to Use a Follow Focus System

 

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^{Photo by EvgeniyShkolenko via iStock}

While making videos is certainly a creative process like photography, it also has a very technical side (just like photography!).

That means that when you're just starting out and exploring the possibilities of video, there are some essential videography terms with which you'll need to be familiar.

Below, I've outlined some of the most basic videography terms that you'll encounter as you explore filmmaking.

Aspect Ratio

Aspect ratio refers to the relationship between the width and height of a video, and is expressed in a ratio.

Common aspect ratios for shooting videos with a DSLR or mirrorless camera include 4:3 and 16:9. Common aspect ratios for feature films include 1.85:1 and 2.39:1.

In these ratios, the first number refers to the width and the second number refers to the height.

See the difference between these and other aspect ratios in the video above by Camber Motion.

When shooting video, having a monitor that conforms to the selected aspect ratio can help you ensure that the footage is framed in the safe zone - or the area within which action and titles need to be contained for viewing on a screen.

Models like the Ikan Delta D7C shown above have this and many other features that are helpful for video production.

For example, you can toggle between mono colors (gray, red, green, and blue) and use color peaking for adjusting focus.

Additionally, frame markers allow you to superimpose a center crosshair as well as different frame lines over the image so you can perfect the composition of the shot.

B-Roll

B-Roll is supplemental footage you shoot that adds more details to the story. B-Roll also helps transition from one scene to the next such that it makes visual sense.

For example, if you're shooting an interview, and the interviewee is talking about a record-breaking fish they recently caught, B-Roll might include sequences of that person fishing that display while the voiceover of the interview is played.

BitRate

Bitrate refers to the amount of data that is used per second in the video. Bitrates are measured in megabits per second (mbps). The higher the bitrate, the better the quality of video.

Kellen Reck explains more about bitrates in the video above.

Close-Up

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Close-ups refer to footage that is shot with very tight framing of the subject.

These types of shots are used to provide richer detail to the video and bring a greater level of intimacy with the subject than medium and wide-angle sequences.

Color Temperature

Color temperature refers to the tones of the color of the visible light in video footage.

Color temperature is measured in Kelvin, where a lower value indicates warmer tones - oranges and yellows - while a higher value indicates cooler tones - blues and purples.

Crop Factor

Crop factor refers to the ratio of a camera's sensor size to a 35mm sensor.

Since 35mm sensors are full frame, they have a crop factor of 1:1. But many cameras have a crop sensor that might have a crop factor of anywhere from 1.3x to 2x.

For example, Nikon cameras that have a crop sensor have a crop factor of 1.5.

It's important to know the crop factor of your camera because it influences the effective focal length of the lenses you use.

So, if you have a 35mm lens, but you shoot with a camera with a 1.5x crop factor, that 35mm lens will have an effective focal length of around 53mm.

In the images above, you can see the view a 35mm lens might offer on a full frame camera (top) and what it might look like on a crop sensor camera (bottom).

Depth of Field

^{Photo by borchee via iStock}

The depth of field refers to how much of the frame is in focus.

If you want the viewer to see everything in the shot in sharp focus, you need a large depth of field, as shown above.

^{Photo by fotostorm via iStock}

On the other hand, if you want to bring attention to a specific element in the shot, minimizing the depth of field to maintain focus on the subject while throwing the rest of the shot out of focus is the way to go.

Manipulating the aperture of the lens is one factor that influences depth of field - the larger the aperture opening, the shallower the depth of field will be.

Exposure

^{Photo by gradyreese via iStock}

Exposure refers to the amount of time that the camera's sensor is exposed to light. The longer the exposure time, the more light that hits the sensor and the brighter the footage will be.

The exposure settings for video are the same as for photography - aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which form the exposure triangle.

Checking the exposure on your camera's LCD can be tricky because they are both small and inaccurate in terms of displaying the exposure levels.

Instead, using an external monitor kit like the Ikan Delta D7C-DK gives you the ability to examine the exposure levels on a large, clear, and bright screen.

What's more, external monitors like this have false color and zebra bars for easy exposure reference as well as a histogram for making precise evaluations of the exposure.

For example, the histogram is a graphical display that shows you the number of pixels that are shadows, midtones, and highlights. If the graph is skewed to the left, there are many dark pixels, indicating that the footage is underexposed. If the graph is skewed to the right, there are many bright pixels and the footage is overexposed.

Get more details on how to use a histogram.

False Color

False color is a setting on video monitors that displays luminance values as different colors.

This tool is handy for seeing the exposure levels of each part of the image, say, to determine if any clipping (i.e., blown-out highlights) is occurring.

Learn more about false color and the benefits of using it in the video above by Ikan International.

Frame Rate

Frame rate refers to the speed with which the shutter opens and closes in a one-second period.

Common frame rates include 24, 25, 30, 50, 60, and 120. These frame rates are denoted in frames per second (fps).

The higher the frame rate, the smoother the footage will be. So, a frame rate of 16fps will look choppy, but 30fps will appear very smooth. At 120fps, footage has a slow-motion look to it.

Medium Shot

^{Photo by zmanL via iStock}

A medium shot, also known as a waist shot, frames the subject's upper body.

This type of shot is intended to direct the viewers toward the subject or subjects while still showing some of the environment around them.

Pan

Panning refers to the act of moving the camera from left to right (or right to left) from a fixed position.

Think of panning like turning your head from one side to the other while keeping your body fixed in position.

Picture Profiles

Picture profiles offer different parameters that change a video's characteristics, such as the color, saturation, contrast, sharpness, and gradation (or how bright or dark the video appears to be).

These picture profiles are selected from a menu on the camera and allow you to customize the look and feel of the footage that's recorded.

For example, if you're filming a horror scene, you might manipulate the gradation to make the footage very dark and creepy.

Video profiles vary from one camera manufacturer to the next. Sony, for example, offers an S-Log profile while Canon offers a C-Log profile.

Many videographers use Look Up Tables, or LUTs, in conjunction with picture profiles to create specific looks.

LUTs are applied in post-processing and are a quick way to customize how the video footage appears.

Check out the video above by Peter McKinnon for more details about picture profiles.

Resolution

One of the most basic videography terms you need to know is resolution.

Resolution refers to the number of pixels contained in a video. This number refers to horizontal and vertical pixels, such as 640x480 (standard definition) or 1920x1080 (high definition).

In some situations, resolution is expressed as a single number, or the number of vertical pixels. In that case, the resolution would be expressed as 480p or 1080p.

Kingston Technology offers a quick and easy-to-understand tutorial on modern video resolutions in the video above.

Shot List

A shot list is simply a list of the types of shots you want to include in your video. By making a list of the desired footage and sequences, you ensure that you get everything you need before wrapping up shooting.

Storyboard

^{Photo by smolaw11 via iStock}

Storyboarding involves mapping out the specific scenes in the video.

In other words, many filmmakers will draw out the scenes and organize them in sequence, that way they can see how the film will unfold before a single frame of video is shot.

Making shot lists and storyboards helps define the direction of the video and will help you create a cohesive production.

Tilt

Tilts involve moving the camera up and down from a fixed position. Think of a tilt as moving your head up and down without changing the positioning of your neck or the rest of your body.

Wide Shot

^{Photo by stockstudioX via iStock}

Also known as full shots or long shots, these types of sequences show the subject in its entirety as well as its surroundings.

These types of shots are meant to introduce the audience to a subject by showing how it relates to the environment, people, and actions going on around it.

Typically, videos have a mixture of wide shots, medium shots, and close-up shots to enhance the visual interest of the video.

 

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 ^{photo bykrblokhin via iStock}

What is a Gimbal?

If you’re inspired by your favorite YouTubers to produce better video content of your own, one of the best investments you can make is a gimbal. 

Gimbals can assist you in getting beautifully smooth, cinematic footage, but they aren’t foolproof. They have their limitations, and as with everything, they require a good deal of practice before you start to reap the benefits of using one. 

In this beginner’s guide for using a gimbal, you’ll learn a few quick tidbits for getting the most out of your gimbal. 

You Don’t Need a Gimbal for EVERY Shot

 ^{photo bykrblokhin via iStock}

One of the most basic pieces of advice for filmmakers is to avoid panning and zooming too much.

The same can be said for using a gimbal…

Just because you have a gimbal doesn’t mean you need to use it for filming every single sequence. Sometimes, a still shot from a tripod is exactly what you need!

For example, if you’re interviewing someone for a film, don’t do it while you hold a gimbal in your hand. An interview doesn’t need smooth footage of you circling around the interviewee - that’s just distracting. 

So, one of your first tasks as a gimbal user is to understand when and when not to use it.

Learn More:

• Essential Camera Accessories for Vlogging
• Top Camera Lenses for Video 

Make Sure Using the Gimbal Adds to the Story

 ^{photo byVershinin via iStock}

Adding on to the previous point, not only do you need to be aware of when and when not to use a gimbal, but you also need to be aware when using one does and does not add to the story. 

If, for example, you need to shoot a point of view sequence that gives the audience a view of what a dog might see as it runs through a park, a gimbal might be a great choice.

You can invert the gimbal, get it at a dog’s height, and get smooth footage as you run with the camera. Doing so will help the audience to put themselves in the perspective of the dog, which obviously adds to the depth of the story.

But, if you’re doing an instructional video on how to build a table, it might be distracting (to you and the audience) to circle around the carpenter as they work at their woodworking table. 

Much like the interview example above, sometimes the footage you need calls for a simple fixed camera setup on a tripod. In this case, keeping the video sequence simple allows the story of how to build to table take center stage.

Invest in a Quality Gimbal

^{photo bymolchanovdmitry via iStock}

You often hear photographers talk about how you should prioritize your budget for lenses rather than a camera body. 

In videography, the same principle applies - some accessories are simply more important than others.

I’m not saying that a gimbal is the most important videography accessory for every shooter, but for me, having a quality gimbal has made all the difference in the world.

 ^{photo by ozgurdonmaz via iStock}

There are some accessories you can skimp on and get away with it. But if you’re going to go all-in on using a gimbal, why not get one that has the features to help you get the shots you need while giving you long-lasting and durable performance in the long-term?

For my money, it doesn’t get much better than the E-Image Horizon One Gimbal.

This three-axis gimbal can handle up to eight pounds of gear, so even if you use a full frame DSLR with a light, a mic, and other accessories, this gimbal can take the load.

It has brushless motors to give you precise stabilization while the five built-in operational modes give you quick access to creative video sequences like 360-degree spin on the roll axis for a dream-like shot.

 

It has a 12-hour runtime, too, so you can shoot for hours on end without worry that the gimbal is going to run out of juice.

This thing is just a well-built, functional, and versatile gimbal that will help you get the job done!

Learn More:

• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage
• Beginner Videography Terms You Need to Know

Plan Your Shots in Advance 

^{photo byVicheslav via iStock}

When you see footage that’s filmed while using a gimbal, it looks so seamless and effortless. But that doesn’t mean that it’s effortless to use a gimbal. 

By the time you add your camera, a lens, a microphone, lights, and other accessories, you’ll have several pounds of gear on the gimbal. And that might not sound like much, but after hours of shooting, it can start to feel like a lot!

That’s why it’s so important to plan your shots in advance. Doing so allows you to prioritize getting the sequences you need with the gimbal first, and then you can shoot other sequences later on.

By saving your energy for the gimbal shots, you’ll keep fatigue at bay and be able to maximize the gimbal’s positive effects on your video. 

Planning never hurt anyone when taking photos or making videos, anyway! 

Get a few more tips for using a gimbal in the video above by Ikan International.

 

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Have you ever wanted to take your video camera off of the tripod for certain footage but were disappointed by the unsteady results?

If this style of videography is something you like to do, you would enjoy the benefits of using a gimbal as your camera support. A handheld gimbal opens you up to smooth and steady video footage when filming off of your tripod.

What Is a Gimbal?

The simplest description of a gimbal is a pivoted support that allows movement of an object about an axis. Photographically, a gimbal mount puts the axis at the nodal point of the lens. 

How does a gimbal work for stabilization? What makes a gimbal work for stabilizing are motors. A gyroscope or a computerized version of one controls the motors which apply force internally in one direction or the other to counteract the movement applied externally. 

With the camera and lens mounted properly, these motorized corrections dampen most motion. So the end result is that the object suspended in the gimbal mount resists motion. This smooths out the handheld jerkiness we are all prone to.

Why Use a Gimbal?

The number one reason for a videographer using a gimbal is to allow smooth, jerkiness-free handheld video. Our video tripods and sliders are fantastic tools, we should use them as often as we can for superior video.  

But when we want to take our camera and follow action, we either will use a dolly or a stabilizing gimbal if we want smooth video. Since a dolly is limited to ether having a smooth surface to roll on or a track, a gimbal becomes a great option for putting our camera in motion. 

A smooth recording from a gimbal is much more viewable than when we hold the camera in our hands without any stabilization. That’s one of the biggest advantages of a gimbal in our videography, making it smooth.

Learn More:

• What Is a Follow Focus System?
• Basic Slider Techniques
• Video Tripod Buying Guide

How to Use a Gimbal

Instructions are pretty basic so we’ll also include some gimbal tips and tricks. To get the best benefits of using a gimbal, you’ll need to be careful to mount the camera and lens properly. 

An important tip is to be sure to have the axis of the gimbal be matched to the nodal point of the lens. That way, the motion cancelation is centered on the optical center of the lens. Another tip is that, even though the motion is being dampened, you still want to use personal steadying techniques to minimize what excess motion the gimbal needs to stabilize.

Depending on the style of the gimbal, you may also want to limit how much weight you mount to it. Some optional accessories to consider if available are shoulder mounts and hand grips for two hands. A follow focus system is another great add on for your stabilizing gimbal mount.

Affordable Gimbals for Videography

Perhaps you’ve seen professional Steadicam operators at sports events or working with major picture studios and thought how cool it would be to have one for your own videography. 

Well, Steadicam is actually the brand name of a sophisticated piece of equipment that takes some specific skills to operate correctly. Just like Xerox, Kleenex, Coke, or Kodak, the brand name has pretty much become a catch-all descriptor for all similar products, but it is important to note the distinction. 

A Steadicam can cost upwards of $50,000 or you could hire a Steadicam operator out of your video budget, but few of us have that type of budget to work with. Thankfully, there are excellent gimbals that we can afford and learn to use within their limitations to gain the benefits of using a gimbal for our own work. Some of them are really very good and highly capable videography accessories.

E-Image Horizon Pro by Ikan

One of my favorite sources for high quality video accessories is Ikan. They design and make their own equipment so you can get extremely high quality videography accessories for very low prices compared to other brands. Ikan makes a handheld gimbal that provides all the benefits of using a gimbal at a very reasonable price, the E-Image Horizon Pro.

It is about 3.5 pounds of aircraft-quality aluminum and is rated as capable of holding 7 pounds of camera and lens, so it is lightweight enough to be comfortably held and can handle your mirrorless or DSLR camera and lens. It uses rechargeable lithium ion batteries which are capable of holding a charge for up to 16 hours of operation.

The mounting arms are angled so that you have an unobstructed view of the camera viewscreen while you’re recording video. It uses a quick release mounting system, has options for extra handles, rotates through a full 360 degrees, and has an option for a follow focus control.

The price is very budget friendly, around the same as a very good video light or a moderate aperture prime lens. Which is par for the course when dealing with video accessories from Ikan.

Benefits of Using a Gimbal

The benefits of using a gimbal are that your video productions will be more watchable and look more professional. Handheld video without the jerkiness and shakiness we’re prone to when shooting off of our tripod or other mount. 

This smoothness will translate into viewers being more comfortable when watching our videos, more likely to subscribe to or stay on our YouTube channel, and will please our paying clients resulting in referrals and repeat business. So, as you can see, there are some great benefits of using a gimbal for our video productions. 

Learn More:

• How To Transmit Video Wirelessly
• How To Shoot Quality Video Footage
• 4 Must-Have Accessories for Shooting Video

 

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^{Photo by CoWomen on Unsplash}

Vlogging is more than it used to be. Gone are the days where vloggers were teenagers sitting in darkly lit bedrooms complaining about their history teacher. In are the days where vloggers are technical experts in their field. 

Vlogging is, in many ways, pertinent for photographers that want to grow their businesses nowadays, but if you’re going to begin vlogging, you’ll want to ensure you don’t look like a teenager in a badly lit bedroom. You’ll need the proper equipment, and that starts with a solid camera. 

Here is our list of the best cameras for vlogging in 2019.

Sony a6400

The Sony a6400 features 4K video, a front-facing screen (which is so incredibly useful, once you have a front-facing screen you’ll never go back), and and an eye-AF autofocus system to keep things nice and sharp. All of which makes it one of the best cameras for vlogging. 

Huge shout out to DSI Pictures for the video above that puts the Sony a6400 through its paces.  

Pros of Sony a6400:

• Insane image resolution and quality
• 4K video 
• Crazy good AF system

Cons of Sony a6400:

• Not very aesthetically pleasing
• Can’t see all of the flip-up screen if you have accessories mounted to the hot-shoe

 You can purchase the Sony a6400 for $900 on Adorama. 

Quick Tip: Get around the flip-up screen issue with the Sony a6400 by using a field monitor. 

Having a larger, brighter, more resolute screen like the Ikan Delta DH7-V2gives you a crisp view of what the camera sees, and with the 178-degree viewing angle, you get off-axis viewing for multiple people without color shifts. 

You can attach the monitor to a cage, an arm, and various other attachments to put the screen right in your field of vision for an unimpeded view.

Monitors like this allow you to load 3D luts and custom cube files while also providing a huge set of tools for video making, including a histogram, clip guides, false color, peaking, and more. This monitor is also available in a kit, which adds two batteries, a dual battery charger, a power adapter, a D-Tap power cable, two HDMI cables, a ball head with shoe mount, and a soft case to carry it all!

Panasonic GH5

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is one of my favorite vlogging cameras because it pairs in-body stabilization with 4K video at 60/50p and a 20.3MP sensor. 

What I’m saying is, this is definitely the vlogging camera for the adventurer that needs a small body with a killer stabilization system.

The Panasonic GH5, as showcased by Colin Ross above, should definitely be considered a professional-level vlogging camera. It’s not for the faint of heart, but once you get familiar with this camera, the quality of video you can create is off the charts.

Pros of the Panasonic GH5:

• Crazy video specs with 4K compatibility
• Amazing stabilization system
• Is compatible with tons of lenses

Cons of the Panasonic GH5:

• Ergonomics aren’t the best
• Isn’t great at shooting with low light 
• 2x crop factor

You can purchase the Panasonic GH5 for $1,300 at Adorama.

Learn More:

• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage 
• Plan a Solid Video Shoot With These Pre-Production Tips 

Canon EOS 90D 

 

The Canon EOS 90D also features 4K video at 30p, with an incredible screen that faces forward. It also features mic input for that all-important shotgun mic you need to get high-quality audio. 

There isn’t anything to hate about the uncropped 4K video of the Canon EOS 90D, either, and Dan Watsonproves it with this video test. 

Besides, the 90D is compatible with dozens and dozens of EF and EF-S lenses, so there’s virtually untapped creative potential with wide-angle, standard, macro, and telephoto lenses.

 

Pros of Canon EOS 90D:

• Fully articulated screen
• Uncropped 4K/30p video capabilities
• Incredible sensor

Cons of Canon EOS 90D:

• Doesn’t feature image stabilization 

You can purchase the Canon EOS 90D for $1,200 at Adorama.

Learn More:

• Awesome Camera Accessories 
• Tips for Better DSLR Video 

 

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I've been producing video content for a while now, and in that time, I've used and tested a good number of microphones.

As with anything else, some of the mics I've used have been absolutely stellar. Others have been pretty bad. But most occupy the "perfectly fine" middle ground.

In this buyer's guide, I want to highlight some of the best microphones of 2020.

I've used each of these mics, I've tested them in various environments, and they have proven to be the cream of the crop for my audio recording needs.

You'll find microphones on this list at varying price points, the least expensive of which is barely more than $50! That means there are mics listed below for any and every budget.

Let's get to it!

Ikan Comica CVM-V30 PRO

I have to say that of all the microphones on this list, this one surprised me the most.

At just $53.99 (at the time of this writing), it is by far the least expensive mic listed here. But don't let the price fool you...this thing hits way above its weight class.

I've tested inexpensive mics before, and by and large, it has not been a good experience. That's why I typically avoid recommending microphones at this price point.

But the Ikan Comica CVM-V30 PRO is different...

When you're filming in an environment with a lot of noise, you can put the mic in low-cut mode and adjust the sensitivity adjustment to minimize all the ancillary noise.

When you're filming on the go, as I often do, the shock-resistant structural design helps keep the noise from vibrations in check.

The super-cardioid polar pattern of this shotgun mic gives you superb off-axis rejection of unwanted sounds and allows the viewer to hear the subject with greater clarity.

Truly, the audio quality I've gotten from this mic has surpassed many other microphones that cost double or triple the price - or more. In fact, the quality is excellent up to about 5-6 feet away. Not many budget mics like this can make that claim.

I create a lot of YouTube content, so high-quality audio is a must. This microphone delivers! With excellent build quality, technical specs you'd expect in a much more expensive mic, and extras like an excellent filter and travel case, you have the makings of the ideal budget-friendly mic.

Learn more about the Ikan Comica CVM V-30 PRO

Learn More:

• Common Videography Mistakes You Need to Avoid
• Essential Camera Accessories for Vlogging

RODE VideoMic NTG

I began testing a pre-release version of the RODE VideoMic NTG about six weeks ago. I use the RODE NTG 4 for a lot of my studio work, and I was interested to see if this smaller, more portable mic could stand shoulder to shoulder with its bigger brother.

Needless to say, this mic has impressed!

Like the larger NTG 4 studio mic, the VideoMic NTG captures gorgeous, natural sound. There are various controls to assist you in doing so, including an infinitely variable gain control, a digital switch for controlling high-frequency boost and the high-pass filter, and it has a headphone output for monitoring audio.

Additionally, there is a peak decibel warning light so you can avoid distortion.

The best feature of this mic, though, is its sliding rail.

I've used RODE mics forever, and they are excellent. But my one complaint about them is that they protruded so far out from the camera that they can easily hit you in the face.

Well, the sliding rail system on the VideoMic NTG solves that problem, so if I'm shooting in selfie mode, I can slide the rail back and keep the microphone from hitting my face.

On top of all that, it has a battery that will last more than 30 hours on a single charge, it can be plugged into a USB port for recording on your computer, and it's price isn't bad at all, if you ask me - it's on sale for $249.00 at the time of this writing.

Learn more about the RODE VideoMic NTG

Deity D3 Pro

Yet another fine option for your audio recording needs is the Deity D3 Pro.

This super-cardioid directional condenser shotgun mic gives you a sensitivity range of -50dB to 28dB. It uses an on-board microprocessor that talks to the audio input it's connected with, which means it can work with your DSLR, mirrorless camera, smartphone, tablet...you name it! Basically, it's compatible with anything with a 3.5mm microphone jack. That's excellent versatility!

This mic has one of the best batteries in the business, too. You get up to 51 hours of runtime on a full charge. As an added bonus, it takes less than two hours to charge up!

The Deity D3 Pro has a stepless analog gain adjustment dial. It also has an on-board low-cut filter and a Rycote shock mount.

What all this means is that you get excellent audio (broadcast quality, in fact), that enables you to elevate the quality of your video productions.

It's priced at $199.00 at the time of this writing, so it's an excellent mid-range option.

Learn more about the Deity V3 Pro

Learn More:

• How to Edit Videos Like a Pro
• Plan a Solid Video Shoot With These Pre-Production Tips

SHURE Lenshopper VP83F

One of the neatest features of this microphone is that is has integrated flash recording.

Just add a MicroSDHC card, and you can record and play back audio while the mic is mounted to your camera.

It has an electric condenser cartridge with a super-cardioid/lobar polar pattern for optimal audio quality and an integrated shock mounting system the helps isolate the mic from unwanted noise.

As you'd expect from Shure, this mic is well built, rugged, and offers an intuitive and easy-to-use design.

Speaking of the design, this is a small and compact shotgun mic that doesn't take up too much space or get in your way.

The high-definition audio has excellent low-end response while the single-button recording option allows you to initiate recording quickly and easily.

I appreciate that Shure integrated a headphone audio output, which makes it easier to monitor recording.

I also like how natural the audio sounds, which is thanks to its high sensitivity, low self-noise, and wide frequency range. 

At $299.000 (at the time of this writing), this is one of the pricier mics on this list. However, the audio quality and features you get make it well worth the price tag.

Learn more about the Shure Lenshopper VP83F

RODE VideoMic Pro+

I've had the RODE VideoMic Pro+ in my kit for quite some time, and I have enjoyed using it with a variety of cameras in a variety of situations.

This true shotgun-style mic records super clean, broadcast-quality audio. That's thanks in part to digital switching that includes a two-stage high-pass filter that reduces low frequencies and a three-stage gain control with a +20dB functionality, which improves audio quality on DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

There is also a safety channel to ensure the signal doesn't clip with spikes occur, and a high-frequency boost to enhance the detail and clarity in the recording.

Like other mics on this list, the VideoMic Pro+ has a Rycote Lyre shock system that buffers the microphone capsule and electronics and the microphone mount.

In turn, the result is fewer vibrations of the mic that helps improve the quality of the audio recording that much more.

This mic has easy-to-use controls, intuitive operation, and excellent sound. It's simply a hard-working, lightweight mic!

Normally, all that performance would set you back about $400.00, but at the time of this writing, this microphone is on sale for just $249.00. That's not a bad deal at all!

Learn more about the RODE VideoMic Pro+

 

 

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^{photo byLordHenriVoton via iStock}

No matter how much of an expert you are on a topic, if you’re making a video, a teleprompter will help you deliver your message much more effectively.

Teleprompters put the word-for-word message you want to get out right in front of your eyes. It’s like hand-delivering a precisely worded letter to your audience. 

Is using a teleprompter a guarantee that you won’t mess up? No. But the likelihood of you delivering a well-worded and passionate message is greatly increased when using one. 

You don’t have to have a giant teleprompter like what’s used on the evening news, either. In fact, there are many small, portable, and affordable options for vloggers and videographers today.

Let’s take a look at some of the best teleprompters on the market.

Best Teleprompters of 2019: mPrompter

Even though this teleprompter by mPrompter isn’t going to be available until early in 2020, it still makes this list of the best teleprompters of 2019. Why?

That’s easy…

I’ve had my hands on a prototype model the last couple of months and have found that it’s highly portable for shooting video on the go and it’s extremely durable, so it can stand up to use and abuse while on-location or in the studio.

This rig has a stainless steel body and frame with a textured black coating to minimize reflections and glare.

It has a 3mm glass mirror with a 70/30% reflective coating, and the mirror is permanently attached and free floated in a protective stainless steel bezel.

mPrompter is compact and ideally suited for use with a smartphone, but it is adjustable to any kind of camera, so you can use it with your small mirrorless camera or your big DSLR too.

This teleprompter was developed with bloggers in mind: it’s small, easy to set up (it takes less than a minute!), and comes with aluminum adapter rings to ensure it’ll work with your existing smartphone or camera.

On top of all that, mPrompter is affordable! It really is the best of all worlds - portable, easy to set up, durable, and easy on your pocketbook!

Learn more about the mPrompter teleprompter

Best Teleprompters of 2019: iKan PT-Elite-Pro

 

Ikan’s PT-Elite-Pro teleprompter is specifically designed for larger tablets like the Apple iPad Pro, Microsoft Surface, and Samsung Galaxy tablets as well as any tablet from 6 x 9 inches to 9 x 12.

But even though it’s designed for larger tablets, it’s still an easy and quick setup to save you time. 

It features an adjustable, foldable glass frame, a quick-release base plate, and a much lighter design that makes it more portable than its predecessors.

In fact, the solid CNC machined aluminum construction makes it super lightweight so you can take it from the studio to locations in the field with ease. The custom foam hard case for carrying the teleprompter enhances its portability.

This unit has a 15mm rod base for versatility and ease of use, and includes an elite remote as well. 

The scientific-grade 70/30 teleprompter glass ensures high clarity and sharpness for an easy reading experience while the adjustability to various types of camera sizes makes it an excellent option whether you shoot with a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or a video camera.

Learn more about the Ikan PT-Elite-Pro teleprompter

Best Teleprompters of 2019: Little Prompter

Another one of our favorite teleprompters of 2019 is the Little Prompter. 

As its name indicates, it's a compact teleprompter that you can use to deliver polished talking points to the camera no matter where you’re recording.

It’s a versatile setup that’s also easy to use, so you can use it with a wide range of cameras without having a long setup time.

This unit can be used with your smartphone, and when paired with a teleprompter app, the Little Prompter can operate with your computer’s built-in camera and microphone.

Little prompter can also easily pair with a mirrorless camera or DSLR, a webcam, or even a handycam.

The lightweight body measures just 6 x 6 x 6 inches and is made of durable expanded PVC. It has an adjustable tripod attachment support bar, spacers, and screws to give you versatile setup options. All these components are manufactured using 6061 aluminum for durability.

The teleprompter glass is made of high-quality 70/30 BeamSplitter glass that gives you beautiful sharpness and excellent transparency as well. 

This is just a smartly designed and well-made teleprompter that might just be the ideal fit for your teleprompter needs. 

Learn more about the Little Prompter teleprompter

Best Teleprompters of 2019: Padcaster Parrot

Next on our list of the best teleprompters of 2019 is the Padcaster Parrot, another multi-functional, affordable teleprompter. 

This teleprompter fully sets up in just a few minutes’ time, which makes it a solid choice for videographers that need to run and gun.

Just attach any camera system to the unit, insert your phone, and read the text that shows on the teleprompter. The companion Parrot app makes it super easy to set up.

Like the other teleprompters on this list, the Parrot uses 70/30 BeamSplitter glass for the highest-quality view of your script.

This unit also comes with 13 mounting rings so you can easily attach it to almost any type of camera lens.

There is a Bluetooth remote to improve ease of use via the Parrot app and there's a glass cleaning kit included in the bundle as well.

Learn more about the Padcaster Parrot teleprompter

Best Teleprompters of 2019: Datavideo TP-300B

Last but not least, the Datavideo TP-300B is a great teleprompter option for videographers that use an iPad or Android tablet for reading scripts.

The scripts or cue sheets that you create can be quickly and easily transferred into the DV prompter application software and scrolled at a set automatic rate. Additionally, it can be controlled via an optional remote if a set rate is not desired. 

The prompter software gives you plenty of options for customizing the text size, colors, and fonts so you can make the script as easily readable as possible from a variety of distances.

The unit has a versatile mounting system that enables you quickly and easily mount many different-sized tablets to it.

The strong prompter frame affixes to any standard tripod and gives you the option of using it as a standalone, in front of the camera, or below the lens. Whatever the positioning, you’ll appreciate the 60/40 glass that allows you to see the script clearly. 

Learn more about the Datavideo TP-300B teleprompter

 

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^{photo by0804Creative via iStock}

Whether you’re into real estate photography, vlogging, or photography as a hobby, you need a tripod.

Tripods don’t just provide stability for your camera.

Instead, they enable you to take creative shots, like long exposures. 

Having a tripod also helps you slow things down as you set them up - even just a few seconds to survey the scene as you get the tripod ready might help you notice better compositions.

Plus, the best tripods are light and easy to carry with you all day. 

But, I’d much rather spend my hard earned money on new camera bodies and lenses, which is why I created this best tripods under $200 list. 

E-Image EK610

 

The E-Image EK610 is probably the easiest to use of all best budget tripods thanks to its easy leg locking mechanism. The E-Image EK610 uses dual-stage aluminum legs to allow you to shoot at the exact height you want to, but the legs also deploy quickly and efficiently.

So, if you’re a wildlife photographer or a portrait photographer this may be one of the top tripods you should be looking at.

You can use this tripod with plenty of gear, too - the included head can accommodate up to 6.5 lbs of camera gear. 

This is all thanks to the 65mm half-ball fluid head which provides stability to your equipment through the counterbalance system. 

This is one of our best tripods under $200 for another reason: it is incredibly stable.

It’s stable even at its highest height because of the integrated mid-level spreader that works to keep your equipment balanced at all times.

My favorite quality about this tripod, though, is its rubber feet paired with metal spikes which ensures it stays put, even if your shooting on uneven or slippery terrain.

The E-Image EK610 is available at Ikan for $129.99.

Learn More:

• The True Value of a Good Tripod
• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage 

Manfrotto Befree

 

The Manfrotto Befree is one of the best budget tripods for travellers because it is incredibly compact.

This tripod is built from aluminum, so its light enough to fit in your carry on at just over 3 lbs. But, you aren’t trading weight for stability with the Befree because it’s built for your mirrorless or otherwise lighter camera setup. It can hold up to 8.8 lbs of gear.

It features a maximum height of 56.6 inches, a two-way locking mechanism on the ball head to keep your camera in place, and it can break down into less than 16 inches when you’re on the move. That’s a huge bonus for you travel photographers out there!

The Manfrotto Befree Travel Tripod is available on Adorama for $190. 

MeFOTO Roadtrip Classic

You cannot create a list of the top tripods and not include something by MeFOTO, but out of all of MeFOTO’s tripods, the Roadtrip Classic is, indeed, a classic. 

This tripod weighs in at just over 3.5 lbs and features a maximum height of 61.1 inches. However, none of this is the most impressive part of the Roadtrip Classic because it actually doubles as both a tripod and a monopod. 

 

MeFOTO is quickly making a name for itself in the camera gear world because of innovative products like this one.  

Much like the Manfrotto Befree, this tripod is made out of aluminum (with customizable colors). While it is in use it stands at over 60 inches, but can fold down to around 15 inches for travel.  

You can also carry a whopping 17.6 pounds on the MeFOTO, which is more than most of the best tripods under $200. You usually need to be in the $300-$400 range to fit these specs. 

The transition from tripod to monopod is also quite simple as you remove one of the legs and screw it into place on the base. 

The MeFOTO Roadtrip Classic tripod/monopod is available on Amazon for $160.

With that, you have a quick list of three of the best tripods under $200. As you can see, you don’t have to sacrifice quality or features when you shop for a less expensive tripod!

Learn More:

• Tripod vs. Monopod
• Awesome Camera Accessories

 

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^{Photo by AVANTECTURE on Unsplash}

Whether you’re new to the real estate photography game or have been at it for years, we all know one thing: real estate photography gear is not cheap.

In fact, real estate photography is one of the most expensive photography niches to start out in, strictly because of the amount of additional gear you need. 

However, if you know where to find inexpensive real estate photography gear, then you will already have a leg up on your competition. 

Table of Contents

• Powerful Post-Processing Software on a Budget
• Learn Business Skills on the Cheap
• Inexpensive Photography Insurance
• Budget-Friendly Camera and Lens
• A Fully-Featured (Yet Inexpensive) Tripod
• Low-Cost Gimbal 

Powerful Post-Processing Software on a Budget

 ^{photo bydiego_cervo via iStock}

One of the biggest challenges for real estate photographers is dealing with dynamic range that’s simply too much for their cameras.

This is a particular problem when photographing dark interior spaces with bright windows.

Some real estate photographers rely on the bracketing technique discussed here, which is a great way to create well-exposed images that have nice details in the highlights, midtones, and shadows of interior rooms.

But you have to merge these images together to get the final composite. This process can be streamlined if you utilize software like Photomatix Pro. See what I mean in the video above.

You get over 70 HDR settings and 40 HDR presets along with six HDR styles to fine-tune your photos.

What’s more, you can batch process images, use the presets and tools specifically for real estate photography, and utilize features like advanced ghost removal and automatic alignment of handheld photos.

Time is money in the real estate photography business, and with Photomatix Pro, you can save time so you can make more money!

Recommended Real Estate Photography Books:

• The Business of Real Estate Photography: A Comprehensive Guide to Starting your own Real Estate Photography Business
• Photographing Real Estate Interiors and Architecture: A Comprehensive Guide to Equipment, Technique and Workflow for Real Estate Photography

Learn Business Skills on the Cheap 

^{Photo by The Climate Reality Project on Unsplash} 

I’ve spent my fair share of both money and time on conferences and conventions. I was told it was the best way to learn real estate photography tips and to network at the same time, and while I have met some people through these expensive means, it never seems to quite be worth it. 

I mean, I meet more people in local photography groups that are free anyways!

And, I learn all of my new real estate photography skills through Real Estate Photographer Pro’s online courses. 

Real Estate Photographer Pro was founded by a real estate photographer who realized there were absolutely not enough online resources for real estate photographers when he first entered the business.

The courses here are budget-friendly. They’re totally online so you can get to them when you get to them (I’m a late night learner myself). Plus, they build the exact same type of community that a traditional convention does through a members Facebook group and a weekly Q & A. 

Additionally, whereas real estate photography courses on YouTube only give you just enough to try and attempt a new skill, the videos on Real Estate Photographer Pro come with downloads like templates, raw photos and presets to truly walk you through every step. 

Inexpensive Photography Insurance

^{Photo by sturti via iStock}

One of the essentials of owning a photography business is having the proper insurance to cover you in times of need.

Equipment insurance certainly comes to mind given that you likely have multiple cameras, lenses, a drone, and other very expensive photography gear that travels with you from one property to the next.

And covering all that gear doesn't have to be time-consuming or expensive....

At Full Frame Insurance, for example, you can get coverage day or night on their website, and do so quickly and easily.

Plus, with equipment coverage that starts at just $55 a year, you can get the coverage you need without breaking the bank.

Whether the properties you need to photograph are right next door to one another or in locations around the world, your policy is designed to respond to equipment insurance claims during transit and while you're on and off premises.

Full Frame also has general liability insurance that starts at just $99 per year.

The policy covers all sorts of eventualities, from medical expenses to property damage, personal injury, and even advertising injury.

When the scope of your work is to enter people's homes to take photos, it's critical that you have the proper insurance coverage. And Full Frame Insurance makes getting the right coverages a painless and inexpensive process!

Budget-Friendly Camera and Lens

^{Photo by Tim Graf on Unsplash} 

We all know that your camera and lens are the most expensive real estate photography gear you need.  

But, if you’ve read the site for very long, you know all of the editors on PhotographyTalk love buying these expensive items used to save the cash.  

Usually, when photographers think about buying used cameras they think about the process of going through a shady website like Craigslist to try and do so. But, it’s 2020. There are better options for inexpensive real estate photography gear.

One of our favorites, Gear Focus, is a used gear community built by photographers, for photographers.

Buyer and seller safety is paramount, so you can rest assured that you get the best deals on gear, and that if something goes awry, Gear Focus will work hard to rectify the situation.

Additionally, if you have gear to sell, Gear Focus gives you unlimited free listings, and when an item sells, their seller fees are just 3.5 percent - among the lowest in the business.

Gear Focus is all about building a community for creatives where buying and selling gear is fair and safe. If you need a budget-friendly camera body, an additional lens, or other kinds of gear, Gear Focus is the place to look.

Learn More:

• Selling Your Camera the Easy Way
• How to Sell Your Used Camera Gear

A Fully-Featured (Yet Inexpensive) Tripod

^{Photo by ISO Republic on Unsplash} 

Another incredibly expensive real estate photography piece is the tripod. You can find tripods into the thousands of dollars range, and frankly I’d rather buy myself a well-deserved vacation.

I’ve been a fan of Ikan for years because they have top-shelf products that won’t break the bank. That includes high-quality, sturdy tripods you can use for real estate photography. 

 

I’m a particular fan of Ikan’s professional camera video tripod which is under $200, can hold up to 8.8 lbs of equipment, and provides an ease of use you normally can’t find in a tripod under $500. 

This tripod comes with separate locking mechanisms for panning and tilting, can stand anywhere from 30 inches to nearly 66 inches (which is more than enough height for real estate photography), and comes with a carrying bag I can sling under my normal camera bag. 

What’s more, the fluid head has a fixed counterbalance that helps balance out heavy loads, and the middle spreader gives the tripod additional stability.

The last thing you want when you’re taking photos or videos of a property is have your tripod fail you.

I’ve used Ikan tripods for years, and can attest to their build quality and features. The best part is the budget-friendly price!

Low-Cost Gimbal

  ^{photo by Gustavo Muñoz Soriano via iStock}

While a tripod helps you to shoot videos of properties with your camera, sometimes you need a hand-held option for your smartphone and that’s when a gimbal comes in handy. 

But, again, gimbals can be incredibly expensive for those just starting out in the real estate photography game, and I’d rather spend that money on other parts of my business. 

Again, I think Ikan is one of the best manufacturers for gimbals for real estate photography on the market today.  

Ikan’s FLY-X3-PLUS 3-Axis Smartphone Gimbal is just $75, features 3-axis stabilization, and supports a wide range of smartphones and GoPros. 

Plus, it comes with an extra battery!

This rig is simple to set up and operate so you can start shooting straight away. And with its 3 axes of active stabilization, your videos will have a smooth, cinematic feel that entices buyers to want to learn more about the property.

 ^{photo by scyther5 via iStock} 

And that’s what this is all about...equipping yourself so you can tell each property’s story to get it sold.

But creating those stories doesn’t have to be expensive!

As you’ve seen here, there are many inexpensive photography accessories you can buy that will help you achieve better-looking photos without busting your budget.

Learn More:

• Introductory Real Estate Photography Tips
• How to Take Gorgeous Interior Real Estate Photos

 

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^{Photo by Pedro Sandrini from Pexels}

While you’re sitting at home with nothing better to do, why not start researching for your next camera gear upgrades? 

Online shopping quickly passes the time, and there are so many camera gear upgrades available for under $100, so you don’t need to totally break the bank.

While the camera gear upgrades on this list are going to be a little more expensive, they’re going to save you a ton of money in the long run because once you make these camera gear upgrades, you’ll never need to make them again.  

An Upgraded Camera Strap

The Holdfast Classic Strap is the perfect example of how camera gear upgrades don’t need to break the bank. 

This camera strap is made of high-quality leather in a variety of colors to make you look like a professional while remaining comfortable during long shoots.

You can tell that the Holdfast Classic Strap was made by a photographer from the details. All of the rings are made of stainless steel so they will never rust, and your camera is protected from the steel by an additional strip of leather to keep it protected. 

My favorite part about this camera strap is that it is fully customizable. You can choose the color, the width of the leather and the length of your strap so your camera falls precisely where you want it to.

The Holdfast Classic Strap is available for just $95, which I’ll consider inexpensive camera gear because you’ll only ever need to buy it once. Holdfast features a lifetime guarantee on all of their products. 

 

Recommended Photography Reading

• National Geographic Photo Basics: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Great Photography
• Photography: The Definitive Visual History
• Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs

 

A Tripod Built Like a Tank 

 

When you start to think about camera gear upgrades, you’re probably thinking about buying new lenses, new filters or additional batteries. Tripods never get any love.

But, once you try Ikan’s E-Image EK50AAM Tripod, you’ll wish you had purchased it years ago. 

This tripod can carry up to 13.2 lbs of equipment while remaining fluid. It features 360-degree panning and can tilt 90-degrees down and 75-degrees up.

It has a working range of 31” to 64”, folds down to 32” and comes with foot spikes so you’ll never need to purchase them separately.

For $180, the Ikan E-Image Tripod is definitely one of the best camera upgrades you can make in 2020.  

Learn More:

• 5 Gadgets to Upgrade Your Mirrorless Camera
• Photography Gear Upgrades You Should Make in 2020

A Nifty Fifty Lens

Is it time for you to upgrade from your kit lens? If I had to guess, I’d say yes.  

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is one of the most lightweight nifty fifty lenses on the market at just 5.5 oz.  

It features an impressively low minimum focusing distance of just over 13”, and will ensure your photos are bright and sharp, with beautiful bokeh-filled backgrounds.

Plus, you can use this lens for still portraits or video because it is optimized for both. 

For $125,this lens will pay for itself in no time. Besides, what’s the point in making camera gear upgrades without ensuring you have the basics. 

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens

If you prefer Nikons to Canons, we have the perfect nifty fifty lens for you as well.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens is definitely not beginner camera gear, but it is a lens you will keep for a lifetime.

It features an incredibly quiet stepping motor, to ensure your autofocus is unwavering, and a 9-blade rounded diaphragm to create incredible bokeh. This lens will also work just as well for video as it does for stills and works best when paired with Nikon cameras that are optimized for low-light shooting.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens also features a fluorine coat which repels dust, water droplets and grease and will help you maintain the quality of the lens for decades to come. 

At $600, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens isn’t inexpensive camera gear, but it is a wise investment in your future. 

Learn More:

• 4 Photography Mistakes You Should Stop Making
• Tips for Picking a Camera Bag

 

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^{Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash}

I have made my fair share of filmmaking mistakes, and I’m not going to pretend like I’ll never make any more video mistakes in the future.

Videography is a journey, and it’d be a pretty boring one if you didn’t need to learn anything the whole time.

But, a bunch of these are common videography mistakes that you don’t need to make because people already have and those people can save you. So, you can read this article like a personal journal of videography mistakes I’ve made so you don’t need to! 

Using Poor Sound Quality

^{Photo by Denisse Leon on Unsplash}

Poor audio quality in videography is almost as bad as poor audio quality in podcasts. Of course, it’s something you’re willing to live with if your favorite podcaster gets way better audio quality and they don’t post enough episodes so you have to go back and start the podcast from the beginning.

But, poor audio quality turns off so many viewers (or listeners) and it’s totally preventable.

DSLRGuide gives a few easy-to-follow tips for fixing poor audio quality that you can try this week.  

Not Investing in High-Quality Lighting

Lighting is essential for video as much as it is for still photography. If you want to create videos that have lasting, positive impact, invest in quality lighting gear! 

Using an on-camera light will do wonders for eliminating unwanted shadows and brightening up the scene. Lights like the Ikan Onyx shown above and below provide bi-color light that’s adjustable from 3200K to 5600K so you can customize the color temperature to your needs.

What’s more, these lights have a CRI of 95 and TLCI of 96 in both Tungsten and Daylight, so you know the quality of the light is top-notch. 

Simple lighting setups with one light are available, but you can expand your lighting capabilities with a two-light setup or even a three-light setup if need be. 

Don’t let poorly lit scenes ruin your video production. Invest in good lighting, and you’ll be one step closer to realizing your creative vision!

Not Focusing on Your Shot Composition

^{Photo by Kane Reinholdtsen on Unsplash} 

I don’t know why people get in the habit of only focusing on shot composition when they’re shooting pictures because shot composition is so important in video as well.

The use of dead space, or wasted space as you should start to think of it, is one of many common videography mistakes I see, which is so sad since you can fix this problem just by remembering your rule of thirds.

Another issue with videography shot composition is flat video. Stop filming yourself against walls and in corners. It makes your video look boring. Create depth in your videos by placing your subject in the context of a scene with interesting elements in the foreground, midground and background.

 

Quick Tip: Compose better shot sequences with the aid of an on-camera monitor like the Ikan Saga shown above. This unit features tons of tools that help you capture better footage, including a histogram, false color, peaking, clip guides, audio meters, guides, crosshairs, and grids. The bright, detailed, seven-inch screen offers a much more robust view of the scene than your camera’s LCD as well!

Lingering

^{Photo by Paul Dufour on Unsplash} 

I’m going to make an educated guess and say 90% of your shots that include people walking should have been edited out of your final project. 

Lingering, or improper editing, is when you are showing uninteresting shots. These shots could be shots where no action is taking place. These shots could also be shots that you think you need for spatial consistency, which is where the long shots of people walking around comes from.

Give your viewers some credit. If your script could plausibly lead the viewer to understand where you’re headed next, you probably don’t need shots of the actors walking to that place.

Learn More:

• Plan a Solid Video Shoot With These Pre-Production Tips
• Beginner Videography Terms You Need to Know 

Bad Quality Scripts

^{Photo by Gianandrea Villa on Unsplash} 

I understand the old saying, “it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” However, sometimes it really is what you say.

Have you ever opened up a YouTube video and the vlogger is either talking in the most disinterested monotonous voice, or is talking themselves in circles?

How long did you stay on that video? Statistics say that most viewers give a video 10 seconds to decide whether they want to continue watching that video.

Plus, this number is only getting shorter with younger generations who barely have the patience to wait out a 5 second ad before receiving their content. 

As such, make sure you spend as much time on your script as you do on your editing. Also, think about taking a college class on script writing if you’ve never worked in the writing medium before. The tools and skills you gain from a little bit of script-writing education can make all the difference in the quality of your final product.

Boring Music

 ^{Photo by Alphacolor on Unsplash}

In the same way as I won’t watch your video if the script sucks, I also won’t watch your video if you have awful fair use jazz music blaring. 

We are almost in 2020, which means we are entering an era where there is so much free music you can use on the web. You just need to know where to find it. 

Think Media gives three incredible resources for fun music in the video above. Save your viewers, and use music that doesn’t contradict the theme you are trying to convey in your video. 

Learn More:

• Tips for Better DSLR Video 
• Tripod vs Monopod 

 

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^{Photo by Sam McGhee on Unsplash}

I was a still photographer for years before transitioning to videography, so I never figured I’d need to learn how to shoot video. I suspected it would come naturally. In some respects I was correct. In others, I was incorrect. 

Sure, some tried-and-true photography tips apply to video just as well. But I didn’t realize how different some composition tips for video are from composition tips for still photography and it made me grow an entirely new respect for the niche.

Here are five composition tips for video I think are most important for beginners to hear. 

Composition Tips for Video: Rule of Thirds

^{Photo by Sonnie Hiles on Unsplash} 

The rule of thirds applies to film in much the same way as still photos. Most DSLRs have guided settings that will split your screen into nine sections to help you learn to shoot video with the rule of thirds. 

Basically, you want to make sure you are filling up all nine sections of the screen with some action to help you balance your shots.

Learn Online Video gives a great breakdown of the rule of thirds in videography and they also pull scenes from some of the biggest box office hits to show you how it works in practice.  

Quick Tip: Using a field monitor can help you compose better video sequences and expands your creative possibilities at the same time. Rigs like the Ikan Saga S7P shown above offer a super-bright 7-inch screen for framing up your shots while also giving you the ability to preview LUTs in real time, inspect a histogram, and review clip guides. This unit also has waveform, RGB parade, vectorscope, false color, peaking, and audiometer capabilities, just to name a few. It 1:1 pixel mapping feature lets you move through the entire image and see each section of the shot at up to 4K quality. If you want to elevate the quality of your videos, using a monitor like this is an excellent step!

Composition Tips for Video: Create Proper Headroom

^{Photo by Omar Lopez on Unsplash} 

Okay, before you start quoting different movie scenes that are incredibly famous and don’t follow this rule, the headspace rule can be broken creatively on purpose, but generally should be followed.

Headspace is just the amount of room an actor has over their head in the shot. It’s especially important for documentary makers to focus on headspace, because otherwise the shot looks cramped and uncomfortable. 

Lights Film School walks you through how to properly use headspace in this video, as well as how to remember to focus on it while trying to focus on other rules as well.

Learn More:

• Beginner Videography Terms You Need to Know
  
• Tips for Better DSLR Video

Composition Tips for Video: Keep the 180 Degree Line in Mind 

You never want to cross the 180 degree line in a video, because if you do then the continuity of the shot will be ruined because the actors will suddenly be facing the incorrect way.

This can be difficult to understand, so I’ll let Studio Binder show you what the 180 degree line is and how disorienting it can be for the viewer if it gets crossed by a videographer.  

 

Quick Tip: One of the most useful tools in a videographer’s toolkit for creating interesting video compositions is a camera slider. Sliders like the E-Image ES50 shown above offer the capability of getting smooth tracking sequences that add visual interest to your final video. This slider has 29 inches of range, which is perfect for videographers that want to incorporate tracking motion without lugging around a big, heavy slider. The 16-layer carbon fiber frame and CNC machined components cut down weight without sacrificing durability, so this is a slider that will work for you for years and years to come. It can accommodate up to 22 pounds of gear, too, so as your videography kit grows, this slider can grow with you!

Composition Tips for Video: The Foreground and Background are Important Too

^{Photo by Ole Witt on Unsplash} 

In much the same way as with still photography, there are simple composition tips for video that will make your shot immensely more interesting immediately.

One of these rules is paying attention to the entire shot, which includes the objects in front of the actor and the background they’re acting in front of.

Jonathan Hughes has an incredible archive of filmmaking tips, but his video on depth of field is especially insightful. 

Composition Tips for Video: Break the Rules

^{Photo by Jack Sloop on Unsplash} 

My favorite part of photography is learning how to break the rules. Life is incredibly boring if you follow all of the rules all of the time and the same can be said of videography.

In fact, I would argue the directors behind most movies that win awards and are generally considered some of humanity’s best work broke many rules in those movies.

CineFix pretty much proves my point in this video. You need to learn how to find a balance in rule breaking, because if you break too many rules your film will feel chaotic and disorganized, but if you don’t break any, your film could feel like a low-budget film.

Learn More:

• Top Camera Lenses for Video 
• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage 

Bonus Tip: Get Equipped With Proper Lighting

You can compose beautiful scenes all you want, but without the proper lighting, your video won't have the impact and visual appeal it should.

One of my favorite lights is the PilotFly AtomCube RX1 because it's small enough to fit in your pocket, but powerful enough and feature-rich to help you get that high-quality video you strive for.

It’s hard to believe how far photography lighting has come, even in just the last few years. Yet, here we are with lights like this one that slide into your pocket, yet provide you with studio-quality lighting on the fly.

You can use this as a key light for portraits, as a video light for capturing video footage, as an accent light in the background of your photos and videos, and more. With a CRI of 95+ and a TLCI of 97, you know you’re getting excellent quality lighting for your projects.

PilotFly has incorporated 12 common lighting options into the light. This gives you quick and easy access to lighting schemes and plenty of adjustments to get the lighting just right. With a three-hour battery life, you can tackle photoshoot after photoshoot, too.

This light is completely dimmable and you can adjust the color saturation, color temperature, and brightness, too. Wrapped in an all-aluminum frame, these lights are supremely light but incredibly durable for years and years of use.

But the most innovative feature of the PilotFly AtomCube is its ability to work with other lights.

Using Bluetooth, you can connect up to 255 of these lights together. With that many lights - which are calibrated for consistent results from one light to the next - there is virtually no end to what you can do lighting-wise.

You can also mount multiple lights together using Magic Cubes and control everything in real-time via the AtomCube smartphone app. That’s a huge bonus for when you’re multitasking during a photo or video shoot.

It really doesn’t get much easier to get high-quality lighting for your photography and video projects. With products like the AtomCube, photography and videography definitely got a little easier in 2019!

Learn more about the AtomCube RX1 RGBCW LED Video Light

 

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^{Photo by CoWomen on Unsplash}

When I first started foraying into vlogging, I was overwhelmed with the amount of camera accessories for vlogging there is on the market. 

How was I supposed to know which products worked and worked well on a budget? 

Thankfully, I had mentors in the industry to walk me through all of these vlogging accessories (and mentors willing to tell me when I was going overboard on a project). As it turned out, I was going way overboard. 

In an effort to prevent you from spending incredible amounts of money on vlogging accessories you really don’t need, I’m going to break down the bare minimum equipment you can get away with as a beginner vlogger. 

Lighting

^{photo by AzmanL via iStock} 

People ask me, “what do you need for vlogging,” all the time and my answer is the same across the board: lighting. If you aren’t worrying about your lighting, you’re probably doing it wrong. 

But, here’s the thing, you don’t need fancy lighting you just need good lighting that will properly frame you or your subject as the center of attention. I do not recommend relying on natural lighting for one reason: weather and humans are unpredictable. 

The chances that it’s going to be overcast when you need to shoot an episode are high, as are the chances that your schedule could get thrown off and you may need to shoot at night. 

So, one of the best accessories for vlogging are natural-looking light kits that are inexpensive.

 

That’s where the Oryon 18” Bi-Color Ring Light shown above comes in…

This light offers the perfect amount of illumination for your vlog (and creates a beautiful catch light, too!).

It has a large opening in the middle to accommodate a range of camera sizes while the rear control knobs give you quick access to change the brightness and color of the light.

There are multiple mounts on the light for customized positioning, while the soft diffused LEDs emit bright, clean light that envelops you as you film.

And since this is a kit, it comes with multiple goodies, like a heavy-duty, yet compact light stand, two batteries, a dual battery charger, and a carrying case.

If you need fewer accessories, you can get a smaller kit with the light, a smartphone adapter, and a remote, and save a little money too!

Just like with photography, videography depends on good lighting. And when you’re vlogging, a ring light is a great option for getting that high-quality light you need.

Tripod

^{photo by RapidEye via iStock} 

If you’ve ever piled your camera on top of a stack of books ever so precariously, then you’re suffering from needing to buy a tripod syndrome. 

I know. I’ve been there, but tripods allow you to fully express your creativity through your vlogging. They also keep your camera steady and out of the reach of any nuisances (like animals or kids). 

You’ll need to purchase different tripods depending upon what type of vlogging you’re planning on doing. For instance, if you’re a travel vlogger, you might want a tripod that folds up and is light, or if you’re only planning on vlogging out of your home or studio, you might want a mini-tripod that you can stick on your desk and forget about. 

Gimbal

^{photo by Mumemories via iStock} 

Your vlogging accessories kit also isn’t complete without a gimbal. Gimbals allow you to rotate your camera on multiple axes. They basically allow you to get the same shot from 360 degrees and are used frequently in travel vlogging. 

While you don’t necessarily need an expensive gimbal if you’re just starting your vlogging journey, I purchased my favorite gimbal about a year into my vlogging journey and I’ll never go back. 

The E-Image Horizon One gimbal is incredible because it features a universal quick release plate, it allows you to shoot full 360 degree shots on 3 different axes, and it carries up to 8 lbs (which is more than enough for almost any vlogger). 

In the video above by Ikan International, you can see how valuable a good, solid gimbal can be for vlogging and other videography pursuits.

You can purchase the E-Image Horizon on B&H for $400.

Learn More:

• Best Cameras for Vlogging 
• Simple Tips for Vlogging: How to Create Better Content 

Camera Cage 

^{Photo by KAL VISUALS on Unsplash} 

As you get more and more into vlogging and have more and more of the needed accessories for upping the production value of your videos, you’ll find that having a camera cage is a Godsend.

A camera cage is exactly what it sounds like - it’s a metal cage that surrounds the camera body and gives you multiple points of attachment for accessories like microphones, lights, monitors, and so forth.

The Ikan Stratus Cage for the Sony a6500, 6400, a6300, and a6000 shown above also gives you a top handle, rods, a base frame, and a cable clamp to keep all the accessory cables out of your way.

Cages like this are form-fitted to your camera, so you have to be sure to select a cage that was designed for your specific camera body. With cutouts for the battery door and memory card slot, a perfect fit is a must! 

Once you have your camera mounted to the cage, you can go about adding the accessories you need to create vlogs with high production value. 

Cages aren’t necessarily cheap. However, they are definitely worth the investment because they expand the capabilities of video production so much.

Microphone

 ^{photo by lapandr via iStock} 

This is the section of vlogging accessories where I feel tons of people get ripped off because there are so many types of microphones, beginner vloggers think you need one of each.

I think there are four main types of microphones people should consider adding to their vlogging accessories kit: the lavalier microphone, the shotgun microphone, the USB microphone, and the portable audio recorder.

The lavalier microphone, also recognized as the broadcast journalism microphone, allows you to easily interview people without needing to take a ton of time to check your audio levels because the lavalier gets strapped directly on their chest.

If you’re going to be interviewing anyone in your vlogging journey, definitely invest in a lavalier microphone (especially since you can get the one pictured above on B&H for a whopping $15). 

 ^{photo by undefined undefined via iStock} 

The next type of microphone, the shotgun microphone, can either be placed a few feet above you or it can be placed directly on your camera. Shotgun microphones are great at only picking up audio from the area where they are pointed at. 

The third microphone type, the USB microphone, is perfect for voice-over work for transitions in your vlogs. Just sit one on your desk in your studio and get to work!

Finally, the portable audio recorder allows you to replace the audio from your camera. It does this by separately recording your audio. You can then sync this audio with your video with your editing software. The ability to record audio separately from your camera can come in handy in many situations, including when your camera is a good distance away from the subject.

Editing Software 

^{Photo by Wahid Khene on Unsplash} 

You’re not going to get very far in your vlogging career if you don’t own editing software, but figuring out which editing software to purchase can be difficult.  

Adobe’s line-up of products is universally recognized as among the best editing software, so if you can afford to splurge on Adobe Premiere Pro, you should.

But, if you don’t want to spend money on a monthly subscription for any of Adobe’s lineup, there are still options for you. 

^{Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash}

Take a look at this article on the top 10 Adobe Premiere alternatives for ideas in case Adobe’s products aren’t in your price range. 

When it comes down to it, there are just a few must-haves for vlogging if you want to create the best content (and who doesn’t want to do that?!).

If you invest smartly in the accessories outlined here, you’ll have a great setup for producing engaging videos that look good, sound good, and engage viewers!

Learn More:

• How to Shoot Quality Video Footage 
• How to Stabilize a Camera For Vlogging 

 

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 ^{photo bydpmike via iStock}

If you are among the many serious photographers who have decided to step into video with our fantastic new cameras and their awesome video capability, you have likely already learned how to use a shotgun mic. But perhaps you want to improve your knowledge of how to get good audio with a shotgun mic, really good audio.

For still photographers entering video, how to get good audio is an important skill to have. Our shotgun mic tutorial will give you some ideas and techniques for capturing high quality audio as you record video. Practicing these shotgun mic tips will improve your videos and make them more viewable.

The Shotgun Mic

 ^{photo bysturti via iStock}

Think about your audio in the same way you already view capturing images. In order to get higher quality images, we use the highest quality lenses and techniques to maximize their potential.

The same thoughts apply to the audio audio component of your videos. Just as you don’t want to limit your fine lenses by using lower quality filters, or just like you have more to work with when using external flash or other lighting versus the camera built in flash, supplementing or replacing the built in mic of our cameras is a good idea for recording superior audio.

The newest cameras do have very nice mics, but they are limited. A shotgun mic of very high quality such as the Comica CVM-VP2 shotgun mic from Ikan will provide extremely high quality audio. Ikan is a great source for high quality video accessories. Since they design and make the items they sell, you can find very high quality equipment for reasonable prices.

The advantages of using a high end shotgun mic like the Comica CVM-VP2 is that they have excellent signal-to-noise ratio, are electromagnetically shielded for minimizing interference, and have multiple power options, all of which result in superior sound compared to a built in microphone.

Adjust the Levels

 ^{photo bySouth_agency via iStock}

Let’s again compare mics and good audio to the photographic terms and techniques we know so well. When adjusting exposure, we are careful about blocking up the shadows, blowing out the highlights, and the contrast.

Well, those same principles apply to recording audio. The shotgun mic will have a range of frequency that it will capture. Sounds below or above that range won’t sound quite right. Knowing our equipment’s specs will allow us to change audio recording levels and parameters that will work best for the situation. 

Many of the newest cameras have these controls in the menu functions accessed from the viewscreen. It’s important to be familiar with all of the settings before getting into the field since they are not as intuitive as photographic controls. Which segues into the next point.

Use Headphones

 ^{photo bylapandr via iStock}

Think again of exposing an image photographically. You can see what the image looks like in preview and there is an option of viewing the histogram. Using headphones is much like that. Your camera may have a meter showing audio levels but there’s nothing like having instant feedback of hearing it for yourself. 

The camera or other recording device for audio should have a jack that produces the feed actually being recorded. This gives you the sound that is going to be on the file, that is adjusted, attenuated, and flavored by the camera’s audio processor.

If possible, use a style of headphones that covers the entire ear and blocks out most of the ambient noise around you so you can concentrate on the audio feed being recorded. When you use headphones and a shotgun mic, you can really tell how important it is to put the mic in the proper place.

Learn More:

• Shotgun Mic or Lavalier Mic: Which Is Right for You?
• How To Get Top-Quality Audio With a Shotgun Mic
• What is a Camera Cage?

Position Matters

 ^{photo bysturti via iStock}

A shotgun mic has a narrow pattern compared to the built in mic of the camera. Compared to visual photography again, it’s like using a telephoto lens for your audio. You can narrow what is being “seen” by the shotgun mic. 

Sometimes this may mean that you should remove the shotgun mic from the camera or camera cage. A mic stand, a clamp, or a boom can accomplish that positioning for you. Which means also that the headphones from the above shotgun mic tips become vitally important. 

The closer the shotgun mic is to the subject being recorded, the better the audio will be most of the time. The sound is fuller and will have a wider tonal range than sound being picked from very far away, even if the focus of the shotgun mic is extremely narrow.

It’s Baffling

 ^{photo byfizkes via iStock}

Reflected sound can cause audio degradation much like light reflections in an image can cause contrast issues. A shotgun mic automatically helps a lot with this by narrowing the area that is being recorded.

If you are making a fulltime studio area for video productions, investing in some baffling for the walls is a very helpful step. If unable to baffle walls, simply changing the furniture used as props can also make a difference. A big table reflects a lot of sound, a soft couch baffles. 

Using a photo backdrop on a flat wall will reduce audio reflections, too. Since you’re already using backgrounds for a lot of the videography and photography done in a studio, this is an added benefit to that. And if you’re on location and can hang background material on a large wall, even one not in the visual part of the recording, it’s good practice to do so when allowed.

Process for Sound

 ^{photo bygorodenkoff via iStock}

Processing the audio file recorded in your video is every bit as important as editing for visual content. Many times, the same program can be used. This is another place to make use of those high quality headphones listed in the earlier shotgun mic tips. 

The shotgun mic has given you a file with great sound but it’s still similar to a RAW photo image file until it’s processed and edited. This step also gives you the option for adding or enhancing audio for the final video.

You’re In Control

 ^{photo bywelcomia via iStock}

The reason we compared audio for video recording to familiar photographic processes we know like the back of our hand is to emphasize that the camera operator for audio/video recording can be completely in control. Try out the tips in this shotgun mic tutorial to enhance the audio in your final productions.

Learn More:

• Types of Microphones for Vlogging
• Tips for Better DSLR Video
• How To Edit Videos Like a Pro

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^{Photo by Eugene_EM via iStock}

The holiday shopping season is in full swing, and you know what that means...

It's time to discuss more great gifts for photographers, this time with a budget of $1,000.

While a lot of photography gear is expensive, there are all kinds of gear options for photographers with a price tag under $1,000.

From tripods to cameras, photography lighting to gimbals, the following list has it all!

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Colorado Tripod Company Centennial Tripod

Every photographer needs a great tripod, and for that I recommend the Colorado Tripod Company Centennial Tripod.

One look at this thing and you know that it's been beautifully designed and built to last a lifetime.

The new 4-series version of this tripod extends to a height of 70 inches yet weighs just 4.9 lbs. and collapses down to 24 inches, making it a highly portable option for all kinds of photographers.

Part of what makes this tripod so lightweight is the Japanese carbon fiber legs that provide the ultimate in rigid support for your camera gear without adding unnecessary weight.

The legs are also waterproof, so if the person you're shopping for enjoys landscape photography that involves water, they can be confident in setting up this tripod at the beach or in a stream without worry of what the water will do to the tripod's legs.

This tripod is easy to set up, too...

The quarter-turn leg locks mean you can get the tripod in place and locked down in a flash, that way you don't miss any shots.

I like the fact that the Centennial Tripod comes in gunmetal or black finishes as well.

I've used various Colorado Tripod Company products over the years, and they have always impressed. This tripod is no different, and I'm sure the lucky photographer on your list would find it to be just as impressive!

Besides, at just $499, this tripod is way under budget!

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Centennial Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Rode Microphones RODECaster Pro Integrated Podcast Production Studio

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list has their sights set on expanding their creative footprint into podcasting, then the RODECaster Pro should be on your radar as a perfect gift idea.

This gadget is the first fully integrated podcast production studio and can be used for producing beginner to advanced podcasts.

There are four high-quality microphone channels that can power studio condenser microphones and traditional dynamic microphones as well.

Connecting the microphones is quick and easy, and you get automatic level setting, one-touch recording, and many other convenient features as well.

The RODECaster Pro also allows you to have remote guests call in for an interview. Just connect a smartphone to the unit via Bluetooth or a TRRS cable, and it will automatically provide "mix-minus" audio to prevent the caller hearing an echo.

Additionally, this unit provides preamps and outputs with Class A circuitry for top-of-the-line gain structure and ultra-low distortion, just like you find in broadcast consoles!

RODE loaded the RODECaster Pro up with eight programmable sound effects as well.

There's music, jingles, applause, and other sounds that help give your podcast a more professional sound.

In other words, this is the perfect setup for getting a podcast off the ground!

Learn more about the RODE Podcaster

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Atomos Ninja V With Accessory Kit

Another great gift for photographers that are expanding into audio and video production is the 5-inch Atomos Ninja V portable monitor/recorder.

This gadget works with both mirrorless and DSLR cameras and provides 4K 60p 10-bit recording with a 1000nit display.

Video recording is done directly from the camera's sensor via HDMI 2.0, so you can bypass the camera's internal compression and its record time limits as well.

The ProRes or DNxHR files are edit-ready and can be easily stored on an SSD drive.

In fact, a 1TB AtomX SSDmini drive gives you 2.5 hours of recording in 4K. This drive is just 3 inches long and 1/4 inches tall and is backward compatible with previous Atomos drives.

The monitor is a super-bright 5.2-inch 10-bit HDR screen with 1,000 nits of output. It's encased in a 1-inch aluminum body that's ultra durable while weighing just 11 ounces.

Additionally, the screen offers 10+ stops of dynamic range in real-time from various signals, including Log, PQ, and HLG.

The anti-reflection screen allows you to clearly see what's happening, even on the brightest of days.

With one-touch operation, recording couldn't be easier. You also get speedy playback, slow motion, and frame-by-frame analysis with AtomOS

Of course, that's just the start. This little guy offers much more in the way of utility for your favorite photographer!

Learn more about the Atomos Ninja V

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Zhiyun Weebill 2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

A handheld gimbal like the Zhiyun Weebill 2 is a must-have for photographers that also produce videos.

This is the upgraded version of the Weebill S, and boasts many features that enable the creation of beautifully smooth and steady video.

The Weebill 2 has a dynamic stabilization system at the chip and algorithm level that enables lightning-fast adjustments by the gimbal to ensure smooth video capture.

The gimbal has a 2.88-inch color touch display that offers real-time video monitoring and the ability to instantly adjust settings. 

The user interface is easy to navigate and easy on the eyes as well - its operation is completely intuitive so videographers can focus on recording video, not on trying to figure out how to work the gimbal.

Another feature of this gimbal that's worth mentioning is that it has an underslung design. This allows you to get ultra-low-angle shots 

Additionally, you can use it handheld, in portrait mode, and in storage mode, and there are multiple ways to grip or hold the gimbal to get the desired results.

Other features include SmartFollow, which supports target marking and gesture control, follow focus controls, aperture and ISO controls, and focus control wheel supports.

In other words, this gimbal is loaded up and ready to roll!

Learn more about the Zhiyun Weebill 2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 with 12-32mm Lens & 45-150mm Lens

When you give a gift to someone for the holidays, you want it to be something that wows them, but that doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg either…

Well, Samy’s Camera has an incredible deal that ticks both of those boxes - the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 with not one, but TWO lenses bundled with it.

This kit is normally just under $1,000, but with a $400 instant rebate, you’ll pay $597.99. Not bad, right?!

The GX85 features a 16-megapixel micro four-thirds sensor, 4K video, and 5-axis in-body image stabilization that helps enable the capture of sharp photos and smooth video, even when shooting handheld. 

Because this camera lacks a low-pass filter, it generates images that have better image quality and sharpness. The photographer on your list will certainly appreciate that!

Other features of this camera include a 2764-dot electronic viewfinder, a 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, and an ISO range of 200-25600. Additionally, the GX85 has WiFi and continuous shooting of up to 40 fps. All of those features are wrapped inside a small, lightweight mirrorless camera body.

Of course, we can’t forget that there are two lenses as part of this package: a 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 wide-angle zoom lens and a 45-150mm f/4-5.6 zoom that gives photographers the option of shooting throughout both standards and telephoto ranges.

That means that the special photographer that you’re shopping for will have a complete setup for tackling all kinds of photography and videography needs, from landscape and portrait photography to making dynamic videos in high-quality 4K resolution. If that isn’t an awesome gift idea, I don’t know what is!

Learn more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 with 12-32mm Lens & 45-150mm Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Onyx Digital Color LED 1 x 2 Soft Light

The Onyx Digital Color Light from Ikan is an RGBWA LED panel that offers five color modes for getting the lighting just right for photography or videography pursuits.

With separate controls for red, green, and blue, the photographer or videographer on your list can get the precise look they want for their creations. And, of course, with independent controls for each channel there are millions of color options!

Add in amber and white LEDs, and you have a light with more accurate color temperatures when recreating daylight or tungsten lighting.

This light also offers CCT mode, which gives you color temperature controls from 2800K up to 10000K.

There is a hue shift of magenta and green, too, so the user has better matching control when using this light in addition to other LED light fixtures.

The light offers CRI/TLCI of 95 as well, so you get beautiful quality lighting.

Throw in 33 different gels and 8 different special effects, and you have a recipe for an all-purpose light!

Learn more about the Onyx Digital Color LED 1 x 2 Soft Light from Ikan

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Really Right Stuff TFC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod

This carbon fiber tripod from Really Right Stuff has improved ergonomics that make the tripod easier to use than ever before.

In fact, this tripod is so easy to use that it will easily become a seamless part of your favorite photographer's workflow...

There are 1/4"-20 sockets on the outside of the tripod's apex that allows for adding accessories to expand the functionality of the photography or videography setups.

Furthermore, this tripod is ultra-fast to lock and unlock, that way the photographer on your list can deploy the tripod to get a shot and quickly unlock it, fold it up, and move on to the next shot without any fuss.

The twist locks on the legs have been redesigned to hold up better to contaminants like debris. This tripod also holds up better to the elements than previous versions, so you get the ultimate in reliability and functionality, too.

At just 4.3 pounds, this is a nice and compact tripod that can accommodate up to 50 pounds.

And you get the same attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship that you expect from Really Right Stuff.

As I mentioned earlier, every photographer needs a good tripod. This is a great option!

Learn more about the Really Right Stuff TFC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Godox AD600Pro Witstro All-In-One Outdoor Flash

This Godox all-in-one flash is the perfect gift idea for photographers that do a lot of outdoor portraiture, event photography, and the like.

It has a 2.4GHz wireless X system that offers a range of up to 328 feet.

And since it's compatible with various TTL systems like Nikon, Sony, Canon, Olympus, Fujifilm, and Panasonic, the chances are good that the photographer on your holiday shopping list has a compatible camera.

The light offers up to 600Ws with nine steps of power output that range from 1/1 to 1/256.

In addition to plenty of light output, you also get incredible battery life with a 28.8V/2600mAh lithium-ion battery pack that provides up to 360 full-power flashes.

There's an optional AC adapter for this light as well, which gives photographers the ability to run the flash off of AC power for long-lasting performance.

Learn more about the Godox AD600Pro Witstro All-in-One Outdoor Flash

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Sony Alpha a6300 

A great holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list is a Sony camera.

By opting for a pre-owned camera, you can save a ton of money while still giving an awesome gift this holiday season.

The Sony a6300 offers lots of features, including a 24.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, 4K video at 30p, HD video at 1080p/120, and continuous shooting at 11fps.

Add to that a spectacular 425-point autofocus system with tracking AF, excellent image quality, and a small, lightweight body, and the a6300 is a perfect gift for a photographer that needs a capable yet highly portable camera.

Plus, with the a6300, you give the gift of a small, yet mighty camera with superb photographic and video capabilities, but that can easily slide into a camera bag with loads of room to spare.

There are also many different lenses that work with this camera, so if you wanted to expand the gift-giving, you could potentially find a nice pre-owned E-mount lens to add to the mix.

Whether the photographer on your list photographs people, buildings, landscapes, wildlife, or something in between, this camera will be a welcome addition to their camera bag!

Learn more about the Sony a6300

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Phottix Indra500 TTL GameChanger 2-Light Kit for Canon

Yet another lighting option you might consider as a great gift idea for a photographer is this Phottix Indra500 TTL Gamechanger 2-light kit for Canon.

This is a perfect kit for photographers that don't have access to AC power while on location because it has Li-ion batteries and chargers.

The kit includes two Indra500 TTL 500 Ws monolights as well as an Odin II TTL trigger transmitter for canon cameras.

Additionally, you get a 32-inch Easy Up Octa Softbox with grid and a 24x35-inch Easy Up Softbox With Grid.

There are two nine-foot air-cushioned stands for supporting the light and softboxes as well.

With all the lighting elements that a photographer needs, this is a perfect holiday gift idea!

Learn more about the Phottix Indra500 TTL Gamechanger 2-Light Kit for Canon

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 ^{photo byTom Merton via iStock}

I know what you’re thinking…you can’t get a truly awesome gift for a photographer with just $100.

But you’re wrong!

Not only are there plenty of gifts for photographers with a price less than $100, but there are also lots of amazing gifts for that price.

While a lot of photography gear is admittedly expensive, these gift ideas will keep you on budget - and impress the photographer on your list, too.

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

If you ask me, one of the best gifts for photographers is a print of one of their favorite photos. It's a great way to honor their craft while also giving them a gift that truly keeps on giving! 

And I know what you're thinking...metal prints for under $100 must be pretty low quality. Happily, though, that's just not the case!

Artbeat Studios is known as an industry leader for high-quality metal prints. One of the reasons for this is because Artbeat Studios’ HD metal prints have the image heat infused directly into the metal. The result is unsurpassed resolution and color vibrancy.

Metal is a gorgeous substrate for all manner and type of photos, too. The crisp, clean detail and modern look is just what the doctor ordered for highlighting a beautiful image.

What’s more, Artbeat Studios uses Chromaluxe® brand aluminum sheets. This brand of aluminum has a 3x better permanence than Kodak Silver Halide Prints and resists fading for more than 65 years. So not only is an HD metal print a great gift for this holiday season, but it’s a gift that will keep on giving for decades!

You can also customize the look of the print by choosing different finishes, surfaces, and mounts. One of the newest additions to the options list is the textured matte surface for a true fine art look. 

Whatever options you choose, the result is a breathtaking and custom print that your favorite photographer is sure to love that won't bust your budget! And since Artbeat Studios won our 2020 Metal Print Shootout, you know you’re getting a high-quality product! 

Learn more about Artbeat Studios’ HD Metal Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: An SD Card (or Several!)

^{Photo by nicolas_ via iStock} 

Is the photographer on your holiday shopping list difficult to shop for? Then a great gift idea is something that offers utility now and in the future, like an SD card. 

All photographers need memory cards, so giving the gift of a memory card or two will be much appreciated.

Memory cards can be expensive, though, so you’ll want to maximize your budget by finding the best deals on top brands.

I use SD Card Express to find great deals on memory cards, and I think you’ll find that their selection is just right for finding the photographer on your list the cards they need.

From microSD cards to Class 10 cards, TF Cards to U3 cards, SD Card Express has you covered. 

There’s a huge selection of different brands, too, so if the photographer you’re shopping for likes Lexar, SanDisk, Western Digital, or something in between, you should be able to find what you need.

For example, you can get a SanDisk Ultra 512GB MicroSD Memory Card for $86.64. As another example, you can get a Lexar Professional 633x 256GB SD Memory Card for $48.13. You can mix and match types and brands to give your favorite photographer a nice collection of cards while staying under your $100 budget.

Learn more about SD Card Express

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: CanvasHQ Print

It's tough to beat a large-format canvas print as a holiday gift...

Canvas prints offer a classic look with an interesting texture that helps bring the image to life.

What's more, when it's a well-made canvas, like those from CanvasHQ, the print can become a family heirloom - something that you cherish for decades to come. What a powerful gift!

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

What appeals to me about these prints is the impeccable quality. There is a great level of detail and sharpness, beautiful color accuracy, and the frames on which the print is stretched are handmade with kiln-dried wood to ensure the frame stays square and true for years to come.

Additionally, these guys use archival-grade canvas and commercial-grade inks to ensure long-lasting durability.

They also have a new product - a variety of floating frames - that add a touch of elegance and depth to canvas prints.

The floating frames extend along the sides of the print and don't obscure the front of the print, that way you can see 100 percent of the image. It's a clean, dynamic finish that looks great!

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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! That’s just a few reasons why CanvasHQ was a repeat winner of our 2019and 2020Canvas Print Shootouts!

Learn more about CanvasHQ Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: RODE VideoMicro

This tiny shotgun microphone is perfect for a GoPro (or DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, for that matter).

It's compact and lightweight, but audio quality isn't sacrificed. In fact, it has a high-quality cardioid condenser mic capsule so you can get clear, crisp audio.

And since it's a directional mic, it minimizes sounds from the periphery so your video has focused audio from the subject. That’s just the kind of audio performance you want to match the high-quality video footage that you can capture with modern cameras.

Add to that a thermoplastic suspension structure for minimizing vibrations as you adventure around with your GoPro, and you have the ideal audio companion for the best adventura camera on the market!

If the photographer on your list is an adventurer and utilizes a GoPro, this is the perfect gift idea!

Learn more about the RODE VideoMicro

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: Holdfast Mini EDC Fieldbook

If you’re shopping for a photographer that was alive in the 1990s or earlier, they probably have a habit of carrying a notebook with them to write down camera settings, site information, and other details about the shots they take. I know I do that… 

And while some folks have transitioned to taking notes on their phones or other devices, there’s something about having handwritten notes about your photos that is so satisfying.

With the Mini EDC Fieldbook from Holdfast, your favorite photographer can take all the notes they want and protect them in style.

This leather journal cover is beautifully made of leather and is sized perfectly to fit the Rite in the Rain spiral-top 3x5 notebook.

This gorgeous fieldbook also has room to fit pens or pencils, your ID, business cards, and other small items that photographers might need on a photo shoot. In fact, there are six pockets and two hand slots for carrying the essentials.

Not only is this fieldbook supremely useful, it’s also impeccably made right here in the U.S. Talk about a wonderful gift idea!

Learn more about the Holdfast Mini EDC Fieldbook

Gifts for Photographers Under $100 - Ikan ILED 120 Daylight Flood LED Light

As modern cameras become more and more about photography and videography, and as more and more photographers add videography to their list of services, it makes sense to get the photographer on your list a quality light for video work.

 The Ikan ILED 120 Daylight Flood LED light is a perfect option, given its performance and its price tag.

At just 3¾” x 3⅓”, this tiny light won’t burden photographers with extra size and weight. But don’t think that it doesn’t pack a punch despite its small size…

There’s a 60-degree beam pattern and 5300K-5900K LEDs that put out clean, beautiful light. And since it’s an Ikan product, you can trust that this light is solidly built, packed with features, and field tested to ensure long-term reliability.

 This light comes with an on-board rechargeable lithium battery, a battery charger, a camera bracket, a shoe mount, and a diffuser, so it’ll be ready to go right out of the box!

Learn more about the Ikan ILED 120 Daylight Flood LED Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: PhotoRepairPro

I've said it before, and I'll say it again...

The best gifts are the ones that offer long-lasting joy and utility. For the photographer on your list, a way to provide that is by restoring one of their favorite photos.

We all have printed photos that have seen better days, but fortunately there is a way to bring those photos back to life - PhotoRepairPro.

For $34.99 - which is obviously way under the $100 limit - you can give your favorite photographer a repaired photo.

Not only that, but PhotoRepairPro also throws in an online proof, a JPEG download, and two 5x7 prints of the image. It's five gifts in one!

And don't worry if the source image has water damage or is faded, or if it has cracks or creases. PhotoRepairPro can bring it back to its original beauty.

You can get the process started now online. In a few days' time, you'll have the perfect gift for your favorite photographer!

Learn more about PhotoRepairPro

Gifts for Photographers Under $100:Hex Ranger DSLR Sling Bag 

One of the best gifts you can give the photographer on your list is a new camera bag.

But not all camera bags are made alike...

Honestly, I’m a bit of a camera bag snob, so I look for things that others might skim over.

For instance, I check the stitching inside and out to see how well put together it is, and with this bag, it’s very well put together.

It’s part of the thoughtful construction and design processes that also make this bag an excellent choice for a gift for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

One of the things I like most about the bag is the collapsible interior dividers - including the bottom divider. This gives you a bag that can not only be customized to your gear for each photoshoot, but you can also fold up or remove the dividers to allow the bag to be packed totally flat for travel inside another bag. 

Speaking of customizations, this bag has side adjustable load straps and adjustable bottom carry straps so you can carry even more gear when needed.

This bag is also packed full of pockets to help you keep track of your stuff. There’s a front access organizer for small items, a faux fur lined pocket on the front for your phone or a pair of shades, a faux fur lined pocket for your table, and multiple hidden velcro stash pockets. And the bag sits very well when worn. It’s comfortable and easy to access your gear and really hugs your body.

With genuine Cordura material and YKK zippers with metal pulls, this bag will stand up to use and abuse, too. And since it’s so compact (just 1.3 pounds and 14.5"L x 7.25"W x 4.75"H), you can rock it in the urban jungle without worrying that it’ll be knocking into people as you move from shot to shot.

Something that really stood out to me was that, although the bag is listed at 8 liters, there is no wasted or negative space. In fact, I easily transferred all the gear I would normally carry in my Peak Design 10L Sling into the HEX Ranger Sling. I have to say that I am a big fan of the efficient use of space in this bag and the collapsible potential of the HEX bag certainly gives it a leg up.

With eight liters of storage space, a streamlined design, and looks that don’t quit, this is definitely a gift for photographers that will put a smile on their face!

And there’s also an updated Version 2 of this bag that offers tons of upgrades, like like a hideaway rain fly, upgraded padding, and a double buckle strap for additional sizing options. It’s under $100 too!

Learn more about the Hex Ranger DSLR Sling Bag

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: Camera Canopy

I don’t know about you, but I’m all about giving gifts that are functional, and functional is a perfect word to describe Camera Canopy.

If the photographer on your list spends any time outdoors, they need something to help protect their camera gear. As a photographer that falls into that category, I understand that when it rains, my day of shooting could be over if I don’t have the protection I need. That’s because even weather-sealed gear isn’t completely water-tight.

There are all kinds of rain guards for cameras, but most of them are plastic bags that make using your camera a huge pain. It’s hard to adjust your lens. It’s hard to see the rear LCD. It’s hard to use the viewfinder too! That’s why Camera Canopy is a much better alternative.

Camera canopy attaches to a camera via its hot-shoe mount. Once attached - which takes just seconds to do - it shields the camera and lens from rain. It even protects the glass on the end of the lens so there’s no worry that good shots will be ruined by water droplets on the glass.

Better still, it’s adjustable for lenses up to 500mm in length, and there’s even a smaller version for mirrorless setups (shown above). Add in a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you’ve got the perfect gift for this holiday season!

Learn more about Camera Canopy and Mini Camera Canopy

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: Pre-Owned Canon EF 50mm f/1.8

Photographers can never have too many lenses, right?

Okay, so maybe there’s a limit, but one of the best lenses a photographer can have in their camera bag is a good Nifty Fifty.

 What makes Nifty Fifties so great is that they’re versatile - they can be used for portraits, landscapes, and video work.

Plus, Nifty Fifties like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 have a nice, big aperture for getting beautiful background blur and for shooting in low-light conditions.

And since you can get a pre-owned 50mm lens for under $100, they’re also an economical gift idea!

 Don’t be scared off by the word “pre-owned,” either…

 You can buy with confidence from MPB because each item in their inventory is thoroughly reviewed and tested before it’s put up for sale.

 That means that if you find a 50mm lens listed in good condition, that lens will be in good condition! There are no surprises, no scams...just a quality used product that comes with a six-month warranty.

 So, this holiday season, help your favorite photographer fill out their kit with a new-to-them lens!

Learn more about the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8

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^{Photo by monkeybusinessimages via iStock}

 Christmas is just three short months away, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the gifts you’re going to give this year.

 Photographers can be notoriously difficult to shop for, though, so we’ve put together a fantastic list of ten gifts for photographers, all of which are less than $150.

 With that kind of budget, you can give all kinds of gifts, from a handy photography vest to a beautiful print to a must-have filter for shooting landscapes. Have a look at these and many other options below!

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: The Vest Guy Traveler Photo Vest

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list enjoys traveling, this Traveler Photo Vest from The Vest Guy would be an ideal gift. 

With this vest, your photography gear is both easy to carry and easy to access at a moment’s notice when it’s time to take a shot.

The vest has many features that make it a comfortable and functional way to carry camera gear. There’s one camera strap and two large cargo pockets that are perfect for carrying items like a lens or a flash. There are also two interior soft-sided adjustable cargo pocket dividers and nylon MOLLE loops for carrying additional gear.

There is a hydration sleeve, a convenient carry handle, and the vest is available in a variety of sizes and colors. You can add a second camera strap and a name tag (which is great for advertising) if you wish. 

On top of all that, these vests are made in the U.S.A. and there’s a lifetime workmanship warranty!

Learn more about The Vest Guy Traveler Photo Vest

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: PhotoRepairPro

Why not give the gift of making old new again this year?

If the photographer on your list is anything like me, they likely have tons of old photos in boxes in the basement or the attic. Some of those photos have probably seen better days, too.

That being the case, a great gift idea is to have a photo restored to its original glory!

For $34.99, you can give your favorite photographer a repaired photo, including an online proof, a JPEG download, and two 5x7 prints of the image. You even get free shipping on the prints!

No matter if the original image is faded, has creases, or needs to be colorized, PhotoRepairPro has your back.

What's more, they'll improve portraits by removing glare from eyeglasses, smoothing skin, or even changing the background.

There are simply a wealth of possibilities for breathing new life into old memories!

Learn more about PhotoRepairPro

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Deity V-Mic D3

With more and more photographers like myself getting into videography, the chances are good that the photographer on your holiday shopping list could stand to get a few video-related gifts this year.

Well, a great video requires great audio, and for that, the Deity V-Mic D3 is an excellent option.

This little mic offers broadcast-quality sound thanks to its low noise circuitry, extremely low distortion, and high-grade SNR. All that technology combines for top-notch off-axis sound performance.

The mic has a smart 3.5mm mic output and is compatible with any device that has a 3.5mm jack, including mirrorless and DSLR cameras, smartphones, and laptops.

Other features include one-button on/off, the ability to mount on a camera, and a 166-hour battery life off of a single AAA battery. Add in a unibody aluminum chassis for durability and you have the makings of the perfect gift for a photographer for under $150.

Learn more about the Deity V-Mic D3

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

If you ask me, one of the best gifts for photographers is a print of one of their favorite photos. It's a great way to honor their craft while also giving them a gift that truly keeps on giving! 

And I know what you're thinking...metal prints for under $150 must be pretty low quality. Happily, though, that's just not the case!

Artbeat Studios is known as an industry leader for high-quality metal prints. One of the reasons for this is because Artbeat Studios’ HD metal prints have the image heat infused directly into the metal. The result is unsurpassed resolution and color vibrancy.

Metal is a gorgeous substrate for all manner and type of photos, too. The crisp, clean detail and modern look is just what the doctor ordered for highlighting a beautiful image.

What’s more, Artbeat Studios uses Chromaluxe® brand aluminum sheets. This brand of aluminum has a 3x better permanence than Kodak Silver Halide Prints and resists fading for more than 65 years. So not only is an HD metal print a great gift for this holiday season, but it’s a gift that will keep on giving for decades!

You can also customize the look of the print by choosing different finishes, surfaces, and mounts. One of the newest additions to the options list is the textured matte surface for a true fine art look. 

Whatever options you choose, the result is a breathtaking and custom print that your favorite photographer is sure to love that won't bust your budget! And since Artbeat Studios won our 2020 Metal Print Shootout, you know you’re getting a high-quality product! 

Learn more about Artbeat Studios’ HD Metal Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: PolarPro QuartzLine 82mm ND64 Filter

When it comes to filters for photography, it’s tough to beat PolarPro… 

I’ve used PolarPro filters for years and they have proven to be well-made, durable, and supremely functional filters for my landscape photography exploits.

This particular filter is a 6-stop neutral density filter with a glass element that’s made of 99.9 percent pure fused quartz. As a result of the high-quality glass, this filter ensures that you can have supreme shutter control while getting zero image degradation and maintaining excellent sharpness throughout the image.

The frame is made of highly durable brass while the glass has optical coatings that offer nearly perfect light transmission without altering the color profile.

Likewise, the glass has abrasion-resistant and hydrophobic coatings that improve resistance from scratches while making cleaning super easy.

And since this filter comes with a lifetime warranty, should something ever go wrong, the photographer on your list has the peace of mind that PolarPro will make it right!

Learn more about the PolarPro QuartzLine 82mm ND64 Filter

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch

One of the best features of the Holdfast Gear Sightseer line of bags is that they are modular, so as your kit grows, your bag system can grow along with it.

Part of that modular system is the Sightseer Small Lens Pouch shown above.

These beautifully crafted lens pouches are constructed of waxed canvas and American Bison leather. Inside, the Aztec flannel fleece looks like a million bucks while providing a soft, secure environment that cradles your lens.

The outside of the pouch is weather resistant while the Aztec flannel on the interior is scratch resistant, which means your favorite photographer won’t have to worry about their gear getting wet or scratched no matter how many times they go out and shoot.

These pouches can be worn on any belt, on the Holdfast MoneyMaker, or on the exterior of the Holdfast Sightseer Bag, so there’s a ton of different ways for photographers to have their favorite lens right at their fingertips.

What better gift to give this holiday season than one that’s super functional, looks great, and is supremely versatile too?!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch 

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Ikan HomeStream 6-Inch Light With Tabletop Stand

What’s so great about the Ikan HomeStream light is that it can be used for multiple purposes. The photographer in your life can use it for studio lighting for videography work, as an accent light for portrait photography, and even as a light for taking self-portraits.

The light is 6-inches in diameter and has edge-lit LED technology for pure, clean light emission. 

It comes bundled with a desktop stand and a ball head that enables you to tilt and rotate the light as needed. The included stand can be adjusted from 13.75 inches up to 21.5 inches to ensure the user has the flexibility they need to perfectly position the light. 

With a color temperature range of 3200-5600K, brightness of 1050 lux at 0.5 meters, and a CRI of 95, this light puts out bright, pleasing light for any task in front of the camera.

Learn more about the Ikan HomeStream 6-Inch Light WIth Tabletop Stand

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Ikan iLED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light

For another lighting option, you can opt to get the photographer on your list the iLED 144 bi-color flood light.

This little light is just 5.75 inches by 3.25 inches yet delivers bright, beautiful light that can be used for photography or videography pursuits.

With a bi-color LED array, this light offers color temperatures that range from 3200-5600K. It has a 60-degree beam angle, intensity dimming, and an on-board battery indicator. It’s also stackable for ease of setup with other accessories.

Learn more about the Ikan ILED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Pre-Owned Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

If you’re shopping for a photographer that has a Nikon DSLR, this 50mm lens is an ideal gift. 

This focal length offers loads of versatility. It can be used for portraits, landscapes, and street photography, just to name a few. It can even be reverse mounted (with an optional adapter) to be used for macro photography work. The 50mm focal length is also ideal for videography. 

Additionally, this is a fast lens with a maximum f/1.8 aperture that enables better low-light performance. The bokeh it produces is also extremely pleasing to the eye.

Nikon lenses are well-made and durable, and this particular model is also highly compact and lightweight. This makes it a perfect all-day lens that doesn’t weigh photographers down or get in the way. 

And since this is a pre-owned lens, you can save a good deal of money - perhaps enough to get your favorite photographer a second gift!

Learn more about the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

 

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 ^{photo byPekic via iStock}

We're getting down to the wire with the holiday shopping season...

If you're in a rush to find the perfect gift for the photographer on your list, don't fret - we've got some great ideas!

With a budget of $2,500, you can find all sorts of epic gifts for photographers including cameras, lighting, office equipment, and much more.

Let's get to the list!

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: iMovR Lander Standing Desk

One of the great things about the holiday season is that you have an opportunity to really change a loved one’s life for the better.

And this isn’t hyperbole - with a gift like the iMovR Lander Standing Desk, you can help your favorite photographer be more comfortable, healthier, and more productive.

Think about it…

Sitting at a desk editing photos all day isn’t good for your neck, shoulders, or back. You need to move your positioning as you work, varying from sitting to standing, to ward off the negative effects of sitting for hours and hours on end. The iMovR Lander desk lets you do that with ease. So, how is this accomplished?

The Lander desk has electric motors that can lift up to 365 pounds and do so with whisper-quiet operation. The motors are engaged in one of two ways: the height-control paddle on the underside of the desktop or the companion smartphone app. With a simple double-tap of the paddle or a tap of your finger on your smartphone screen, you can move the desk up and down as you please.

And unlike many desks, the iMovR Lander doesn’t require a ton of time or tools to assemble. 

In fact, this desk arrives 98-percent assembled, so you’re not only giving an incredible gift, but one that comes without a huge investment of time required to put it together. In about three minutes the legs can be attached to the desk (with no tools!) and the photographer on your list can go about setting up their workspace.

iMovR gives you peace of mind with the desk, too. There’s a five-year warranty on the desktop and a 10-year warranty on the base components. On top of that, the desk is beautifully engineered and constructed, so you can give the gift of something that will be durable and functional for the long term.

The desktop is made of 3D laminate material that is highly durable. There are also hundreds of color and size combinations to choose from, so you can truly design the perfect desk for your loved one (or yourself!).

Best of all, this desk starts at just over $1,000, so with a $2,500 budget, you’ll have a lot of money left over. Perhaps you can buy two desks!

Learn more about the iMovR Lander Standing Desk

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Ikan Professional 15-Inch High Bright Beam Splitter Teleprompter With Travel Kit

If you're shopping for a photographer that wants to start a YouTube channel or is otherwise interested in producing video content, a professional teleprompter is certainly a gift that they will get a lot of use out of.

This 15-inch beam splitter teleprompter from Ikan is what I personally use in my home studio, and I couldn't be happier with it.

One of the best features of this teleprompter is its bright 1000 nit monitor. No matter if I have the studio lights on full blast with the window shades open or if I'm shooting at night with low light, I can clearly see the monitor and see the text I need to read.

Another nice feature you get with this teleprompter is its compatibility with different camera mount options. Whether you're using a small mirrorless camera or a dedicated video camera or something in between, this teleprompter can accommodate most rigs.

Setup is easy, too, with simple balancing and a quick-adjust base. The lightweight and compact design are also nice for small studios like I have, as well as for traveling. Speaking of which, this teleprompter comes with a handy travel case for easy transport.

Add in high-quality American-made 70/30 beam splitter glass, the ability to flip the image on the monitor, and the ability to read the monitor from up to 17 feet away, and you have the makings of a fantastic addition to your favorite photographer's or videographer's home studio!

Learn more about the Ikan Professional 15-Inch Bright Beam Splitter Teleprompter With Travel Kit

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens

Ask any photographer what the most versatile focal length is, and many will likely say it's 50mm

You can use a 50mm lens for all sorts of pursuits - portraiture, landscape photography, street photography, and videography, just to name a few.

Heck, you can even reverse-mount a 50mm and use it for macro photography!

In this case, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM goes above and beyond what a normal 50mm f/1.8 offers and gives photographers a bigger maximum aperture for light-collecting capabilities and improved bokeh.

And since this is a L-series lens, you get the advantage of improved optics for superb image quality.

That image quality is thanks in large part to the three aspherical and one UD element inside the lens. These elements help generate high image quality from center to corner with reduced aberrations and distortion.

This lens is also vibration-resistant, weather-sealed, and has fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements that help repel water and dust.

In other words, this lens was built to last to provide photographers with reliable service for years and years to come.

Learn more about the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Aputure Light Storm LC 120d II

Photography (and videography, for that matter), are all about good lighting. And when it's good lighting you're after, it's tough to beat the Aputure 120d II.

I have these lights in my home studio, and as I explain in my review of this light, I couldn't be happier with their features, performance, and ease of use.

One look at the spec sheet and you can see why I've been so impressed with the Aputure 120d II:

• 1000-watt Tungsten equivalent
• Integrated power and control box
• CRI & TLCI 97+
• Dimmable from 100 percent to just 1 percent
• Built-in lighting effects, including fireworks, fire, lightning, paparazzi, and TV flicker
• 18 dB quiet fan
• DMX Capability
• Wireless remote (328-foot range) 

With this light, you get clean, beautiful lighting, the option to dim or brighten it from 1 to 100 percent, and you can select from a range of special effects, all in a light that offers quiet operation. Nice!

If you're shopping for a photographer or videographer that needs to upgrade their lighting setup, this is the one that should be at the top of your shopping list!

Learn more about the Aputure Light Storm LC 120d II

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Pre-Owned Nikon Z6

The Nikon Z6 is a fantastic mirrorless camera, and since it's been a couple of years since its release, its price has dropped - especially for pre-owned models.

Whether you're shopping for a Nikon shooter who could use an upgrade to a "new" camera or you're shopping for a photographer that wants to get into the Nikon Z ecosystem, this is a great choice.

The Z6 has a 24.5-megapixel full frame back-illuminated sensor that offers top-notch image quality with excellent detail, clarity, and sharpness.

The 12fps burst shooting speed is ideal for action photography while the 273-point autofocus system helps you keep track of moving targets.

On the back is a large 3.2-inch variable-angle touchscreen LCD with 2.1 million dots of resolution, so you can easily see the camera's menu system and take a peek at images you've shot.

The Z6 has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, shoots 4K video, and has a battery life of 310 shots.

This camera is an excellent option for photographers that want a solid rig that can tackle still photos and videos all in one package!

Learn more about the Nikon Z6

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: CanvasHQ Print

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

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

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

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

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. 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.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Holdfast Roamographer Duffle Bag, Camera Bag, and MoneyMaker

This might just be the ultimate photography setup...

If you want to impress a photographer, go ahead and give them a bundle of products from Holdfast.

Holdfast's venerable Roamographer bags not only look incredible, but they're also incredibly functional, too.

Give them the Roamographer Duffle Bag for those long weekends out taking photos.

The duffle is handcrafted out of American Bison hide and has a shearling-lined shoulder strap for easy carrying. It's the perfect bag for a quick trip, and with a metal frame that keeps the bag open during packing and unpacking, two boot bags to keep your shoes away from your clothes, and tons of pockets for small items, it'll become their favorite getaway bag.

To carry their gear, you can include a Holdfast Roamographer Camera Bag as well.

Like the duffle, the camera bag has a vintage aesthetic but with modern features.

The camera insert cradles each camera item, ensuring their safety during transit.

The carrier straps accommodate a tripod for easy carrying, and the shearling-lined shoulder strap makes it easy on your favorite photographer's shoulder to carry the bag, too.

While you're at it, you can throw in a Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera system.

The dual straps mean that a photographer can carry up to three cameras in ultimate comfort, and with their gear right at their fingertips for safe carrying.

What's more, for quick shots, their cameras are easy to reach, making the MoneyMaker just about the most functional gear you could give a photographer this holiday season.

And, like all other Holdfast products, the MoneyMaker looks like a million bucks.

You can pick up all three of these products and still have money to spare with a $2,500 budget!

Learn more about Holdfast products

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Pre-Owned Canon EOS R  

Back when the EOS R came out, it was groundbreaking for Canon since it was their first mirrorless camera.

It was the first Canon camera I owned, and it served me well - it will do the same for the photographer on your list!

The EOS R offers loads of features that include an ultra-resolute 30.3-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor.

Paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor, this camera is capable of shooting at 8fps and up to a native ISO range of 40000.

What's more, Canon gave the EOS R excellent video capabilities with UHD 4K video recording at 30fps.

One of this camera's best features, though, is the Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system.

All told, it has 5,655 selectable autofocus points that allow photographers to quickly and accurately select where the focus of the image will be.

With a small, lightweight body, excellent build quality, great handling, and an increasingly large selection of lenses, the EOS R is definitely a fantastic gift idea this Christmas!

Learn more about the Canon EOS R

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.

This tripod also has huge rubber feet, which as a landscape photographer 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

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

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 ^{photo byfcafotodigital via iStock}

With so many people experiencing tough financial times due to the pandemic, it’s necessary to both think ahead about how to handle the holidays and to consider the gifts you can afford to give the photographers in your life. 

Though a $25.00 budget might not seem like much, it can still get you some pretty awesome gifts that any photographer will love.

Let’s dive into our list of the top 10 gifts for photographers under $25.

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: CanvasHQ Print

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

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

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

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

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. 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.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: f-stop Coffee

I know you might be looking at this list of the top photography gifts for photographers and wonder why I’m including coffee, but just hear me out…

Who doesn't like a good cup of coffee?  Each morning whether I'm out on an adventure or at home, I make my coffee one of four ways:

1. Chemex (preferred way)
2. French Press
3. Mr. Coffee machine (when my wife makes the coffee)
4. Keurig - when I'm in a rush and need a quick cup

f-Stop Coffee has you covered regardless how you prepare it... 

As the name indicates, f-stop coffee brings the art of photography and a good cup of joe together into one harmonious experience.

f-stop Coffee uses aperture sizes to name each type of brew. There’s f/1.4 Light Roast, f/11 Medium Roast, and f/22 Dark Roast, to name but a few.

"I've had the opportunity to sample the f-stop Light Roast, and it knocked my socks off. I'm a coffee snob, so I don't throw out superlatives for coffee that often, but this coffee is tremendous! What a way to start the morning!" - Alex Schult, Founder & CEO, PhotographyTalk

And just like creating the perfect photo requires time, patience, and know-how, so too does creating f-stop Coffee.

These guys work hard to give their customers the highest-quality coffee that’s roasted to perfection and delivered right to your door - anywhere on earth.

If you’re in the market for a photography gift that keeps on giving, just pick your roast, select the coffee beans, decide how much to buy, choose the grind size, and place the order. It’s quick, simple, and will bring a smile to the face of any photographer! 

Learn more about f-Stop coffee and take a peek at their #coffeeandphoto page to see how other photographers have combined their love of photography and coffee!

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini

One of the ball heads that has surprised me the most in recent years in this little guy, the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini.

The funny thing is that this company has been sending me their ball heads to review, and when this one arrived, I didn't look at the details - I just started using it.

And after using it, I thought it would be something that retailed for $60-80 based on its build quality and features.

However, when I was on the phone with these guys to give them my feedback, the subject of price came up, and I was shocked to learn it's about a $20 ball head.

Not only is this ball head incredibly affordable, but it's a perfect size that fits on top of my SwitchPod tripod. It's also super strong and does the job great with my Canon EOS M6 Mark II and my Canon EOS R.

Basic Specs:

• Universal knob clamp
• Integrated bubble level
• Panning knob
• Laser engraved degree markings

It’s not often you can find such a functional photography gift for this price, but the Highline Mini ball head definitely fits the bill!

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini ball head

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Comica Omni-Directional Lavalier Mic

If the photographer on your 2020 holiday shopping list is also into videography, they might appreciate having an upgraded microphone for their video productions.

You can have the most gorgeous 4K video footage in the world, but if the audio stinks, the final video will stink too! Fortunately, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to give the gift of better audio…

The Comica Omni-Directional Lavalier mic is just what the doctor ordered for videographers that need high-quality audio to record their voice.

It can be used with DSLRs and mirrorless cameras and offers a built-in metal shield and windscreen for improved audio performance.

Speaking of audio performance, it has an omni-directional polar pattern and a 50Hz to 20kHz frequency response.

All this in a package that costs less than $25! 

Learn more about the Comica Omni-Directional Lavalier Mic

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Fotodiox Pro 42" 5-in-1 Reflector

A reflector is one of the most useful gifts for photographers that take portraits.

This 5-in-1 reflector pack offers even more versatility with a translucent diffuser to filter light and a black anti-reflector to block light or change the contrast of light on the subject.

Additionally, there's a soft white reflector to reduce shadows, soft silver for brightening the image and increasing contrast, and a soft gold reflector that warms up light in the portrait.

In other words, the photographer on your list can reflect light, diffuse it or even block it!

The reflector pack collapses into itself for easy transport in the accompanying carrying case too.

Learn more about the Fotodiox 5-in-1 Reflector

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Giottos Rocket Air Blaster

Every photographer needs the proper tools to clean their gear.

This holiday season, give the gift of a Giottos Rocket Air Blaster so your favorite photographer can keep their camera's sensor free of dust and debris.

The 7.5-inch-long blaster has a 2.5-inch nozzle that produces a large blast of clean air to get rid of particles on the camera's sensor.

The one-way valve brings in clean air instead of sucking up dust that it's just dislodged, too.

It's easy to carry, durable, and invaluable for keeping photography gear operating at its best!

Learn more about the Giottos Rocket Air Blaster

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Anwenk 18% Gray Card

Getting the white balance just right in a photo is imperative to it having its maximum impact. The photographer on your list can do that with an 18% gray card.

This gray card pack has a matte finish that makes it scratch resistant and non-reflective. It's also waterproof, so even in the rain, sleet, and snow, if your favorite photographer is out shooting, they can get the correct white balance in their shots.

Sized at 5x4 inches, these cards are ideally suited for daily use. They're compact, lightweight, sturdy, and can be slipped easily into a camera bag, a pocket, or worn around the neck with the included lanyard.

Learn more about the Anwenk 18% Gray Card

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card

All photographers need memory cards, so why not oblige with the SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I memory card?

This card offers loads of space, Class 10 speed for full HD video recording, and fast read/write speeds of up to 100 MB/s.

SanDisk is one of the most trusted memory card brands, and for good reason. After all, this card comes with a full 10-year warranty! Besides, a memory card is a gift the photographer on your list will actually use, and they’ll use it over and over and over again!

Learn more about the SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory card

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

---

^{Photo by mapodile via iStock}

 I know what you’re thinking…

 Photography gear and accessories are expensive, so what could I possibly get for the photographer on my list for under $25?

It turns out, there’s a lot of options!

 From camera cleaning kits to canvas prints, memory cards to coffee, you can find all sorts of great gifts for photographers in the list below.

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: CanvasHQ Print

It's tough to beat a large-format canvas print as a holiday gift...

Canvas prints offer a classic look with an interesting texture that helps bring the image to life.

What's more, when it's a well-made canvas, like those from CanvasHQ, the print can become a family heirloom - something that you cherish for decades to come. What a powerful gift!

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

What appeals to me about these prints is the impeccable quality. There is a great level of detail and sharpness, beautiful color accuracy, and the frames on which the print is stretched are handmade with kiln-dried wood to ensure the frame stays square and true for years to come.

Additionally, these guys use archival-grade canvas and commercial-grade inks to ensure long-lasting durability.

They also have a new product - a variety of floating frames - that add a touch of elegance and depth to canvas prints.

The floating frames extend along the sides of the print and don't obscure the front of the print, that way you can see 100 percent of the image. It's a clean, dynamic finish that looks great!

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $25 - Black Rifle Coffee

I don’t know about you, but when I start my day - whether it’s out in the field for a landscape photography shoot or here at home in my office - I absolutely have to have some coffee to get me going.

While coffee isn’t just a gift for photographers, it sure can give the photographer in your life the boost they need to get the day started.

What’s great about Black Rifle Coffee (apart from being really, really good) is that you can get a coffee club subscription and enjoy all kinds of coffee each month. But to get things started, you can give the gift of a 12 oz. bag of coffee that your photography loved one will enjoy.

There’s a huge selection, too - light, medium, and dark roasts and flavors that vary from The Headless Horseman’s Roast to Gunship Roast.

Just beware - whoever you give this coffee to will want to share, and then you’ll want to buy some for yourself!

Learn more about Black Rifle Coffee

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini

One of the ball heads that has surprised me the most in recent years is this little guy, the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini.

The funny thing is that this company has been sending me their ball heads to review, and when this one arrived, I didn't look at the details - I just started using it.

And after using it, I thought it would be something that retailed for $60-80 based on its build quality and features.

However, when I was on the phone with these guys to give them my feedback, the subject of price came up, and I was shocked to learn it's about a $20 ball head.

Not only is this ball head incredibly affordable, but it's a perfect size that fits on top of my SwitchPod tripod. It's also super strong and does the job great with my Canon EOS M6 Mark II and my Canon EOS R.

Basic Specs:

• Universal knob clamp
• Integrated bubble level
• Panning knob
• Laser engraved degree markings

It’s not often you can find such a functional photography gift for this price, but the Highline Mini ball head definitely fits the bill!

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini ball head

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Comica Omni-Directional Lavalier Mic

If the photographer on your 2020 holiday shopping list is also into videography, they might appreciate having an upgraded microphone for their video productions. 

You can have the most gorgeous 4K video footage in the world, but if the audio stinks, the final video will stink too! Fortunately, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to give the gift of better audio…

The Comica Omni-Directional Lavalier mic is just what the doctor ordered for videographers that need high-quality audio to record their voice.

It can be used with DSLRs and mirrorless cameras and offers a built-in metal shield and windscreen for improved audio performance.

Speaking of audio performance, it has an omni-directional polar pattern and a 50Hz to 20kHz frequency response.

All this in a package that costs less than $25!

Learn more about the Comica Omni-Directional Lavalier Mic

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit

Every photographer needs a good cleaning kit for their camera and lenses, and that’s exactly what you get with the Altura Photo Professional cleaning kit.

This kit has everything the photographer on your list needs to keep their gear clean…

There’s a lens cleaning pen and a lens brush, an air blower and 50 sheets of lens cleaning tissues as well. There’s also a 2 oz. bottle for lens cleaner and a three-pack of oversized microfiber cleaning cloths.

There’s even a 90-day, 100 percent satisfaction guarantee!

Don’t let the photographer in your life take photos with a dirty lens or a sensor that needs to be cleaned. Instead, give the gift of clean gear with this cleaning kit!

Learn more about the Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card

All photographers need memory cards, so why not oblige with the SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I memory card?

This card offers loads of space, Class 10 speed for full HD video recording, and fast read/write speeds of up to 100MB per second.

SanDisk is one of the most trusted memory card brands, and for good reason. After all, this card comes with a full 10-year warranty! Besides, a memory card is a gift the photographer on your list will actually use, and they’ll use it over and over and over again!

Learn more about the SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory card

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: SanDisk 32GB Ultra SDHC UHS-I Memory Card 3-Pack

Just like every photographer needs a cleaning kit, every photographer needs lots of memory cards.  

This three-pack of 32GB Ultra SDHC UHS-I memory cards from SanDisk will give your favorite photographer the backup options they need to ensure their photos and videos are safe and secure.

These cards are good options for photographers that don’t shoot a lot of video (though they can accommodate full HD recording). They are ideal for compact and point-and-shoot cameras and offer transfer speeds of up to 90MB per second 

Learn more about the SanDisk 32GB Ultra SDHC UHS-I Memory Card 3-Pack

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: Fotodiox Pro 22" 5-in-1 Reflector

A reflector is one of the most useful gifts for photographers that take portraits.

This 5-in-1 reflector pack offers even more versatility with a translucent diffuser to filter light and a black anti-reflector to block light or change the contrast of light on the subject.

Additionally, there's a soft white reflector to reduce shadows, soft silver for brightening the image and increasing contrast, and a soft gold reflector that warms up light in the portrait.

In other words, the photographer on your list can reflect light, diffuse it or even block it!

The reflector pack collapses into itself for easy transport in the accompanying carrying case too.

Learn more about the Fotodiox 5-in-1 Reflector

Gifts for Photographers Under $25: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

---

^{Photo by GMVozd via iStock}

Shopping for a photographer can be a tough task. Heck, shopping for yourself can be a difficult task!

It's not that there aren't all kinds of gifts for photographers under $250...it's simply trying to decide which ones are the best.

In this holiday gift guide for photographers, we've got 10 great gift ideas, all of which come in at less than $250. That means you have many options for giving an awesome photography gift without blowing your budget.

Let's get to the list!

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Colorado Tripod Company Highline Ballhead

The great thing about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Medium Ballhead is that it's a fantastic addition to my kit whether I'm working in my home studio or I'm out in the field.

When I'm in the studio, I use this ballhead with Colorado Tripod Company's lever clamp (which is compatible with L-brackets and Arca-compatible plates) doing overhead shots. There is a distinct clicking noise that tells me that the ballhead is 100 percent locked in, that way I don't have to worry if the camera is going to crash down on my head as I'm recording.

And, as you'd expect with a product from Colorado Tripod Company, the Highline Ballhead is beautifully made using high-quality materials. It's smartly designed, too, with a universal knob clamp, a drop-in window, dedicated friction control, and independent locking and panning knobs. Addin a 10-year warranty, six available colors, and two different sizes, too!

It's just an easy-to-use, go-anywhere ballhead that any photographer on your holiday shopping list would appreciate!

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Medium Ballhead

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: CanvasHQ Print

It's tough to beat a large-format canvas print as a holiday gift...

Canvas prints offer a classic look with an interesting texture that helps bring the image to life.

What's more, when it's a well-made canvas, like those from CanvasHQ, the print can become a family heirloom - something that you cherish for decades to come. What a powerful gift!

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

What appeals to me about these prints is the impeccable quality. There is a great level of detail and sharpness, beautiful color accuracy, and the frames on which the print is stretched are handmade with kiln-dried wood to ensure the frame stays square and true for years to come.

Additionally, these guys use archival-grade canvas and commercial-grade inks to ensure long-lasting durability.

They also have a new product - a variety of floating frames - that add a touch of elegance and depth to canvas prints.

The floating frames extend along the sides of the print and don't obscure the front of the print, that way you can see 100 percent of the image. It's a clean, dynamic finish that looks great!

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ. 

Best Ever Backdrops Mix and Match Backdrop

Ever since the pandemic started, many photographers have been looking for ways to supplement their income from home. For many people, that means getting involved in product photography and food photography because both are easy to do from the comfort of your own home, provided you have the necessary gear.

Of course, the photographer on your holiday shopping list already has a camera, lenses, a tripod, and so forth, but they might not have the kind of backdrops that make product photography and food photography an easier task.

That’s where Best Ever Backdrops come in!

Now, if the photographer on your list is a portrait photographer, they undoubtedly have a collection of backdrops already. The problem is that those big, bulky, heavy backdrops aren’t well-suited for small scenes like product or food photography.

But since Best Ever Backdrops are just 24 x 36 inches, they are perfect for making small subjects stand out against the non-glare matte finish. These backdrops are also waterproof and stain resistant.

In addition to being just the right size, these backdrops are double-sided which means each backdrop comes with TWO textures! You choose the color or pattern you want for both sides which maximizes the utility of the backdrop for the lucky photographer who will get them as a gift.

And if you know photographers, you know that we have tons of gear all over the place, so storage is often an issue. But since these backdrops are small, lightweight, and just 1/8th of an inch thick, they can be stored under the bed, behind a door, in the corner of a closet - you name it! 

To top it all off, these backdrops are virtually indestructible, so this is a gift that will literally keep on giving for years and years to come. PLUS...the more you order, the more you save. For example, if you order two backdrops you get four textures. Each backdrop is $124.50, but if you order four, the price drops to $104.75 each.

Giving a great gift is all about being thoughtful and giving your loved one something that they will use over and over again. That’s exactly what you get with a backdrop that pulls double duty and allows the photographer on your holiday shopping list to expand the footprint of their business

Learn more about Best Ever Backdrops

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: RODE VideoMic NTG

I've used the RODE VideoMic NTG for well over a year and a half now. 

Needless to say, this mic has impressed!

Like the larger NTG 4 studio mic, the VideoMic NTG captures gorgeous, natural sound. There are various controls to assist you in getting beautiful sound, including:

• Infinitely variable gain control
• Digital switch for controlling high-frequency boost and the high-pass filter
• Headphone output for monitoring audio
• Peak decibel warning light to avoid distortion

The best feature of this mic, though, is its sliding rail.

In the past, a difficulty with my RODE mics is that they stuck out so far from the camera that you might find yourself with a face full of microphone.

But the sliding rail on this mic means that problem is solved - if I'm shooting in selfie mode, I can slide the rail back and keep the microphone from hitting my face.

Add to that a battery that gives you more than 30 hours of runtime on one charge and you have a recipe for an excellent microphone for the photographer or videographer on your holiday list.

Learn more about the RODE VideoMic NTG

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Nanlite FS-150 AC LED Monolight

One of the most critical pieces of equipment in a portrait photographer’s arsenal is a good LED light. After all, without good lighting, the task of creating captivating images is difficult, if not impossible.

This year for the holidays, you can ensure the photographer on your shopping list has that all-important good lighting by giving them the Nanlite FS-150 AC LED Monolight.

This AC-powered light from our friends at Samy’s offers a beautifully even light spread thanks to a large LED array and a high-quality reflector. The light puts out 26380 Lux at 5600K and boasts a CRI of 96 and a TLCI of 98. What all that means is that this light emits beautiful, color-accurate light that falls evenly across the scene.

This light is an all-in-one device as well. It has a control unit, power adapter, and lamp body all in one compact unit. So, not only does this light offer beautiful lighting, but it’s also lightweight and easily portable. The in-body cooling is a further advantage because it enables easier heat dissipation for longer-lasting performance.

Since Nanlite incorporated a Bowens-style light modifier mount and an umbrella holder into the yoke, this light also gives photographers the ability to use a wide array of light modifiers. Additionally, this light offers customizable pre-programmed special effects to give photographers additional leeway in terms of how the light is used.

In other words, this is a gift that offers all sorts of functionality and utility; it’s truly something a photographer can use everyday!

Learn more about the Nanlite FS-150 AC LED Monolight

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Refurbished SideTrak Slide Portable Monitor

One of the best gifts you can give the photographer in your life is the ability to streamline their workflow and make it more functional.

And a great way to do that is to give them a monitor that allows them to double the workspace of their laptop screen…

That’s where the SideTrak Slide Portable Monitor comes in.

At 12.5-inches, this portable monitor offers loads of additional real estate for working photographers. It simply attaches to the back of a laptop with a semi-permanent metal plate and gives photographers the ability to work with two screens or to mirror to the second screen if desired.

The Slide can be rotated 270-degrees, which means it can be used to share what’s on screen with clients. The monitor can be used on the left or right side of a laptop and can be used in portrait mode as a standalone monitor as well.

As a photographer that often travels, I know that space can often be at a premium which makes having a complex computer setup next to impossible.

But with Slide, you don’t need any extra table or desk space because it attaches directly to the back of a laptop. And since Slide is a lightweight, portable monitor, it can be brought along on field assignments with ease.

This is definitely one of those “gifts that keeps on giving” situations…

Giving gifts that can be used over the long-term gets you more bang for your buck while giving the photographer on your list tons of utility. This holiday season, make sure they have all the utility they need with the SideTrak Slide!

Learn more about the SideTrak Slide

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Onyx 30W Bi-Color On-Camera LED Light

With more and more photographers getting into video production, it makes sense to get the photographer on your list a high-quality LED light for their video shoots.

The Onyx Bi-Color LED light is a great option because it features 30-watt high-quality LEDs, high brightness, and beautiful clarity for giving video sequences the light they need to stand out.

With an aluminum frame, the light is both lightweight and durable. Likewise, there is minimal heat release because the aluminum frame allows for excellent ventilation.

The light can be mounted on-camera or a tripod. It comes with a bracket that can attach to any light stand with a baby 5/8-inch receiver.

Best of all, the Onyx Bi-Color light has easy-to-use controls. The LED display gives you the ability to make quick and accurate adjustments of brightness from 10 percent to 99 percent and color temperature from 3200K to 5600K.

Of course, this light can also be used for photography, so it's a gift that offers multiple benefits for the person on your list!

Learn more about the Onyx 30-Watt Bi-Color On-Camera LED Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: PolarPro Peter McKinnon Edition II Variable ND Filter

^{PolarPro Signature Edition II}

A variable ND filter is a crucial component of a photographer's kit because it's such a versatile piece of kit.

You can use a variable ND filter for photo and video work, and since this filter is variable, it gives you the ability to adjust from 2-5 stops or 6-9 stops depending on which version you opt to get.

What's so innovative about this filter is that it has preset stop ranges that eliminates the all-too-frequent occurrence of cross-polarization.

Likewise, this filter displays zero vignetting down to 16mm focal lengths. That means your favorite photographer can get a lot of utility out of this filter with a lot of different lenses.

^{PolarPro Mist Edition II}

This updated version includes PolarPro's new Defender360 system, too. It's a 360-degree protection system for the filter, including a waterproof and dustproof seal.

PolarPro has also developed a new haptic feedback mechanism that gives photographers the ability to make quick and easy stop-value changes without taking their eye off the viewfinder. 

On top of that, PolarPro offers Adventure Assurance, so if the photographer on your list isn't satisfied with the performance of the filter, you get your money back.

PolarPro has demonstrated a commitment to quality over the years, and this filter is no exception. With two versions (Signature II and Mist II) it's a great gift idea if you want to spend less than $250!

Learn more about the PolarPro PeterMcKinnon Edition II Variable ND Filter

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Aputure Amaran AL-MX Bi-Color LED Mini Light

This pocket-sized light might be small, lightweight, and portable, but it packs a mighty punch with 128 LEDs, 3200lux of brightness, and a "boost mode" that increases brightness by 30 percent for bursts of 60 seconds.

Add to all that power the ability to tune the light from 2800-6500K so the photographer on your list can make fine adjustments to how the light looks to suit each and every photograph.

The quality of the light is top-notch, too - it offers a CRI of 95+ and a TLCI or 95+ as well.

This light has a wide beam angle of 120-degrees, a portable design that's about the width and height of a credit card, and a durable metal body that's crafted of aircraft-grade aluminum.

It has a 1/4 screw and a universal cold-shoe mount so it can be mounted on a camera, a tripod, a light stand, and so forth.

This unit has a built-in battery that offers about an hour of runtime at full power and four hours of runtime at minimum power. The battery is rechargeable via a USB-C cable.

This is simply a well-built, bright, easy-to-use light that any photographer would appreciate in their stocking this holiday season!

Learn more about the Aputure Amaran AL-MX Bi-Color LED Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Nomatic Peter McKinnon Cube Pack

Nomatic has forged a reputation for being innovative and focused on developing high-quality, high-utility bags, and the Peter McKinnon Cube Pack is certainly no exception.

The Cube Pack holds 21 liters of gear and offers complete customization thanks to the customizable dividers inside. That customizability comes from the input of Peter McKinnon, who as a photographer and videographer understands the need to be able to customize your bag to fit the specific needs of each shoot.

On the exterior of the bag is a durable and water-resistant finish. There are also external attachment loops for carrying additional gear.

And since this bag fits inside the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack, it can pull double-duty as a standalone bag or as an organizational tool for the larger Camera Pack.

Plus, at a price of $125.00, this bag is one of the least expensive items on this list! What's not to like about that?

Learn more about the Nomatic Peter McKinnon Cube Pack

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Zoom H4n Portable Audio Recorder

As I noted earlier, since many photographers are now fully invested in also making videos, having proper video equipment is a must.

And one of the best gifts for a photographer that's shooting videos is a high-quality audio recorder like the Zoom H4n.

I've used Zoom products for years, and I can't express enough how pleased I have been with their performance.

In this case, the H4n offers four-channel recording up to 24-bit and 96 kHz. It has 2 XLR/TRS inputs with locking connectors and built-in stereo X/Y microphones that are adjustable from 90-120 degrees.

It has 4-in and 2-out USB interfaces and can record directly to SD or SDHC cards up to 32GB in size.

The H4n is portable, has professional-grade preamps, three recording modes, and many other features that make it an ideal holiday gift for the photographer on your list.

Learn more about the Zoom H4n Portable Audio Recorder

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: E-Image EK650 Tripod

A solid tripod is a must-have for any photographer, and that's exactly what you can give them in the E-Image EK650.

This professional tripod kit is ideal for photographers that shoot with DSLR or mirrorless gear.

It has a fluid head with a 75mm bowl that can support up to 11 pounds thanks to its fixed counterbalance.

The tripod's legs have plastic leg locking frames which reduce the overall weight of the tripod, making this a great option for photographers that travel a lot.

The mid-level spreader offers increased stability for shooting on uneven terrain too. The anti-skid pads and highly stable aluminum legs also help in that department. You get fixed pan drag, variable tilt drag, and continuous adjustable tilt drag options as well.

This is simply a fantastic all-in-one package (with a carrying bag included) that will bring a smile to your favorite photographer's face!

Learn more about the E-Image EK650 tripod

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^{Photo by LukaTDB via iStock}

Whether you're looking for a gift for yourself this holiday season or you've got a fellow photographer that deserves a nice gift, a $250 budget can go a long way.

From microphones to camera bags to memory cards, there's all sorts of gadgets that make excellent holiday gifts. You can also give gifts that keep on giving, like a beautiful canvas print. The possibilities are endless!

Below, we've compiled a short list of the best gifts for photographers under $250 to consider this holiday season.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Canvasprints.com canvas print

I don’t know about you, but I find that there are two common problems when searching for gifts for my loved ones. First, I have a lot of people in my life that are difficult to shop for. And second, it can be difficult to find gifts that have long-term utility.

I think I’ve found a solution for both problems, though…

This year, I’m giving canvas prints to many of the people on my holiday shopping list. Why? Well, it’s easy! Even the most difficult of people to shop for enjoy a good photo. What’s more, the chances are high that they have wall space to put a printed photo.

On top of that, a canvas print is something that can be enjoyed for years - decades, really - to come. It isn’t a one-and-done gift that offers flash-in-the-pan excitement during the holidays, then finds its way into a closet somewhere. 

Instead, by giving someone a gorgeous photo that’s been hand-crafted just for them, you can give them the gift of time - time to enjoy the print each and every day.

So, the question is, where do you get a good canvas print?

Earlier this year, I ordered a canvas print from CanvasPrints.com. It was my first such order, so I wasn’t completely sure what to expect.

Well, what I got in the mail was a superb canvas print!

As I shared in this post, the canvas I got from CanvasPrints.com ticks all the boxes in terms of quality:

• The printing process was flawless, with no ink smudges or stains.
• The high-quality canvas is tightly wrapped around the frame, with no waves or puckering.
• The frame is well-made with square corners and a center support to ensure it stays square.
• The canvas is attached to the frame with plenty of staples to further ensure the canvas remains tight.

Additionally, I like that CanvasPrints.com uses a wire hanger on the back rather than the more typical sawtooth hanger. I find that sawtooth hangers are often not attached to the frame in the center (and often aren’t level, either), which obviously complicates hanging the print level. With a wire hanger, there’s no concern there!

In other words, my first experience with CanvasPrints.com could not have gone better. As a result of that, they’ve earned my business for additional prints for myself and for my loved ones this holiday season. You should entrust them to create a beautiful print of your images as well!

I should note that the materials used to create these prints are American-made and of the utmost quality to ensure the print that arrives at your door looks incredible. If something goes awry, no worries - CanvasPrints.com offers a 100-percent money-back guarantee with your print.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your holiday shopping done, get a fantastic gift that keeps on giving, and give the gift of a special moment in time with a CanvasPrints.com print!

Learn more about CanvasPrints.com

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: f-stop Dyota 11 Camera Sling Bag

A durable, functional, and comfortable camera bag is a great gift for photographers under $250. And one of the best options is the Dyota 11 Camera Slings bag from f-stop.

At just 15.7 inches tall, 9.4 inches wide, and 5.1 inches deep, this bag is a small, everyday carry for quick photography outings. It weighs just 1.8 pounds empty, so the bag is lightweight, has a slim form factor, and can easily move with you as you navigate through crowds.

The 11-liter capacity is all you need for your camera, a lens or two, and other required accessories. You can access the gear quickly and easily via the expandable roll-style top. There's also a curved weatherproof zipper that allows easy access to the main body of the bag.

Like all f-stop bags, the Dyota is impeccably designed and manufactured. The bag's material is RF welded for a seamless design, and the interior storage insert can be removed when not needed.

That means that the Dyota 11 can pull double duty as a camera bag and an everyday carry bag when you're not on photography adventures.

It's a great option to give yourself this holiday season or to give to a loved one!

Learn more about the f-stop Dyota 11 Camera Sling Bag

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: iMovR Gymba

One of the worst things about being an office worker is being in a sedentary position all day. Thankfully, you can use many strategies to help offset the adverse effects of sitting or standing for long periods.

iMovR specializes in American-made sitting-standing desks that utilize brushless motors for easy adjustments to the desk height. With features like a built-in health coach to remind you to change position, iMovR’s desks are a dream come true for people that work from home or in an office environment.

But iMovR doesn’t just make desks…

If you or a loved one need an additional way to stave off the deleterious effects of long work days, Gymba is an ideal gift option this holiday season.

Gymba is a balance board that’s a perfect complement for working at a standing desk. You can “walk” while standing at your desk and activate various body parts for a workout while you work.

In fact, Gymba allows you to work on various aspects of your body, including your core and leg muscles. What’s more, by being more active throughout the day, you’ll improve your posture and circulation.

Now, I know what you’re thinking - won’t this “workout at work” distract you from what you’re doing? After using Gymba for a while now, I can tell you that it absolutely does not interfere with your work!

Once you get used to standing on it, Gymba really settles into the background. I don’t even think about it anymore, yet as I’m writing this, I’m working my core and leg muscles. It’s a much better way to work, to say the least!

And, unlike other balance boards, Gymba doesn’t damage your floors. That means you can get your work done, be healthier, and not worry about what your floors look like at the end of the day. Best of all, Gymba is less than $250, so it’s a budget-friendly holiday gift!

Learn more about the iMovR Gymba

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: RODE VideoMic NTG

I've used the RODE VideoMic NTG for well over a year and a half now. 

Needless to say, this mic has impressed!

Like the larger NTG 4 studio mic, the VideoMic NTG captures gorgeous, natural sound. There are various controls to assist you in getting beautiful sound, including:

• Infinitely variable gain control
• Digital switch for controlling high-frequency boost and the high-pass filter
• Headphone output for monitoring audio
• Peak decibel warning light to avoid distortion

The best feature of this mic, though, is its sliding rail.

In the past, a difficulty with my RODE mics is that they stuck out so far from the camera that you might find yourself with a face full of microphone.

But the sliding rail on this mic means that problem is solved - if I'm shooting in selfie mode, I can slide the rail back and keep the microphone from hitting my face.

Add to that a battery that gives you more than 30 hours of runtime on one charge and you have a recipe for an excellent microphone for the photographer or videographer on your holiday list.

Learn more about the RODE VideoMic NTG

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Holdfast Moneymaker Solo

One of my favorite camera accessories is my Holdfast Moneymaker Solo leather camera strap. This thing looks great, is built like a tank, and is a comfortable carry for my camera. That's why I'm recommending it!

If you aren't familiar with Holdfast, you're missing out. This Oklahoma-based company makes some of the finest leather camera accessories you can find. For example, the Moneymaker Solo is crafted of beautiful leather and stainless steel hardware, which make it eye-catching and supremely durable.

In fact, the longer you use the strap, the more aged it will become, and the better it will look!

The Moneymaker Solo has a big, curved shoulder pad that helps lessen the blow to your shoulder as you carry your camera. Also helping in making it a smooth and easy carrying experience is the Belt Anchor, which attaches your camera to your hip to prevent it from clanking around as you walk.

Disengaging the Belt Anchor is a simple one-handed motion, so you can quickly bring your camera to your eye to get the shot. Reattaching the Belt Anchor is also a one-handed job so you can return it to its secure spot on your hip without any fuss.

The stabilizer strap offers further insurance that the strap and camera stay in place on your shoulder.

Another benefit of the Moneymaker Solo is that you can add accessories to it. For example, there's a front D-ring that's a perfect location for attaching a Holdfast Cell Pouch or lens pouch.

These straps also come in various sizes (small, medium, and large) and are offered in right-handed or left-handed configurations.

If you or someone on your holiday shopping list likes to run and gun with a single camera, this is a great option for doing so in comfort and style!

Learn more about the Holdfast Moneymaker Solo

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Vanguard VEO Active 46 Camera Backpack 

When I started in photography many, many years ago, I carried my camera gear in a regular backpack. Not only was this a big mistake from a gear care perspective, but it was also impossible to find anything inside the abyss of the backpack.

Don’t let your favorite photographer make the same mistake…

An ideal camera backpack is the Vanguard VEO Active 46. This bag keeps photography gear organized with a removable camera box insert. The insert has space for a camera with a lens attached, plus various cubbies for other lenses, an external flash, and other accessories. There’s no hunting around in a dark bag for what’s needed - instead, it’s all right there in its own protected space.

Plus, the camera box is brightly colored, so it’s even easier to see where your gear is. That’s just one of the ingenious design choices from Vanguard, though.

For example, this bag has top, front, and rear access to make grabbing the needed gear as quick and efficient as possible. You’ll also find a protective sleeve for a tablet or laptop.  There’s even a built-in USB charger connection for an optional power bank!

The Active 46 is made for, well, an active lifestyle. It has an ergonomic design with a metal frame and waist belt, breathable material to help you keep cool, and a trolley handle for easier transport in airports. There’s even a rain cover that offers total coverage for those days out taking photos when the weather just won’t cooperate. 

Other features include a multifunction pouch and an accessories pouch for added storage, expandable pockets, and a waterproof sleeve for your water bladder to stay hydrated.

Truly, Vanguard has thought of everything with this bag. It’s hugely functional, super comfortable, and smartly designed. And it’s priced at less than $250!

Learn more about the Vanguard VEO Active 46 Camera Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Pre-Owned Canon EF 24mm f/2.8

If the photographer on your list shoots with a Canon DSLR with an EF or EF-S lens mount, a great gift idea is a fast wide-angle lens. The EF 24mm f/2.8 certainly fits the bill!

The 24mm focal length offers a nice wide-angle view on a full frame camera while providing a standard view on a crop-sensor camera. The constant f.2.8 aperture enables improved results in low-light situations while also enabling faster shutter speeds when needed.

This is an autofocus lens, but there is a manual override switch on the lens barrel.

This is an ideal lens for portraits, street photography, architecture, and landscapes, to name a few. Its small size and relatively light weight make it a good "walkabout" lens for Canon DSLR shooters.

You can buy with confidence from MPB because each lens is thoroughly inspected and graded. An explanation of the grade (e.g., "excellent," "like-new") is provided directly on the listing page for each lens. 

Likewise, MPB offers a generous six-month warranty on most lenses to give you peace of mind in your purchase. There's a seven-day return window as well!

I've purchased, sold, and traded gear on MPB on many occasions, all with great success. Save a little money this holiday season by investing in quality used gear from MPB!

Learn more about the Canon EF 24mm f/2.8

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Onyx 30W Bi-Color On-Camera LED Light

With more and more photographers getting into video production, it makes sense to get the photographer on your list a high-quality LED light for their video shoots.

The Onyx Bi-Color LED light is a great option because it features 30-watt high-quality LEDs, high brightness, and beautiful clarity for giving video sequences the light they need to stand out.

With an aluminum frame, the light is both lightweight and durable. Likewise, there is minimal heat release because the aluminum frame allows for excellent ventilation.

The light can be mounted on-camera or a tripod. It comes with a bracket that can attach to any light stand with a baby 5/8-inch receiver.

Best of all, the Onyx Bi-Color light has easy-to-use controls. The LED display gives you the ability to make quick and accurate adjustments of brightness from 10 percent to 99 percent and color temperature from 3200K to 5600K.

Of course, this light can also be used for photography, so it's a gift that offers multiple benefits for the person on your list!

Learn more about the Onyx 30-Watt Bi-Color On-Camera LED Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Lumina AI Webcam

A webcam is a great tool for photographers of all kinds, but particularly for photographers that are in business for themselves. Having a reliable, high-quality webcam enables "meeting" clients who live far away, in addition to creating video content for social channels or a website.

The Lumina AI webcam works with Windows and Mac-based systems and captures video in 4K resolution. The DSLR-quality video is enhanced with Lumina's proprietary AI technology, which makes you look your best on video calls. You can even use the Lumina Studio app to apply more than 30 settings to the video, including changing the white balance, exposure settings, and background blur.

The ultra-wide 4K camera captures a 95-degree field of view while the dual microphones capture excellent sound. And with an AI auto-framing feature, the photographer on your list will always be front-and-center in their video calls!

Learn more about the Lumina AI Webcam

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Pre-Owned Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN ART - Sony E Fit

One of the great things about Sony E-mount cameras is that there is a huge array of lenses you can use. This includes many excellent third-party lenses from companies like Sigma.

The 30mm focal length and f/2.8 aperture make this an excellent standard prime lens for the Sony shooter on your holiday shopping list. The f/2.8 aperture is a nice feature for low-light shooting while also enabling beautiful background blur. 

Sigma has included technology that reduces flare and ghosting, so the resulting images are sharp, high in contrast, and beautifully detailed.

For what it's worth, this lens looks incredible, too. The metal construction means that it will provide durable service for years to come.

It's a small lens as well, and since it has an internal focusing system, the lens doesn't extend when zooming in. The linear autofocus motor gives you precise control while also being whisper quiet.

This is an all-around excellent lens, and a great gift idea for the photographer on your list! And with excellent pre-owned options available at MPB, you can give a fantastic gift backed by a six-month warranty while saving yourself some money at the same time. It's a win-win!

Learn more about the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN ART Sony E Fit

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II V90 300R Memory Card (256GB)

A memory card might not be the flashiest gift for photographers, but it's certainly one of the most useful!

This ProGrade card is a fine choice with 300 MB/s read speed and up to 250MB/s write speed. The SDXC UHS-II U3 format works with many different types of digital cameras from Sony, Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Olympus, Fuji, and Samsung. It can be used for capturing still images or videos. In fact, it's compatible with cinema cameras and can record various video formats including 4K, 8K, RAW, and RAW HD.

ProGrade rigorously tests its cards to ensure the highest quality and the most dependable performance. There's a three-year warranty on the card as evidence of that!

Learn more about the ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II V90 300R Memory Card (256GB)

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

 

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^{photo byelenaleonova via iStock}

The holidays are coming in hot, and for many of us, finding gifts for the photographers in our lives is a tough task. 

Photographers can be a finicky bunch. We’re loyal to certain brands. Many of us already have an ocean of photography gear, too.

So what do you buy the photographer on your list with a budget of $50?

We’ve curated a list of top options that will hopefully make your holiday shopping a little easier.

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: H&Y 37-49mm RevoRing

One of the most innovative photography gadgets of 2020 is also one of the most inexpensive!

A couple of months ago, H&Y unveiled RevoRing, which is a variable step ring. This is so innovative because it eliminates the need to carry a bunch of individual step rings to make filters and filter systems work with different lenses.

Instead, the photographer on your list can have this one variable step ring in their camera bag and use it to adapt their filters to a variety of lenses.

This particular RevoRing is 37-49mm in range, giving your favorite photographer lots of leeway in terms of which filters they use with which lenses.

It’s dead simple to use too - just twist the RevoRing, attach it to the lens, and it’s ready to rock!

There simply aren’t that many truly innovative photography gifts for under $25, but RevoRing certainly fits the bill.

If you want to surprise your loved one with a gift that is unique, functional, and will legitimately help them improve their photography workflow, look no further than RevoRing!

Learn more about the H&Y RevoRing

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: CanvasHQ Print 

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

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

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

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

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. 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.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: GoPro Light Mod for Hero 8 Black

The GoPro Hero 8 Black is an awesome camera for still photography and videos. It’s functionalities and flexibility are undeniable, and with a wide array of add-ons, mods, and accessories, you can extend the usefulness of this camera even further.

If your favorite photographer has a GoPro Hero 8 Black, a great holiday gift idea is the GoPro Light Mod.

This little guy connects easily to the Hero 8 Black via the Media Mod (sold separately) or it can be attached to multiple GoPro mounts and other accessories for off-camera lighting.

 

It has four levels of brightness up to 200 lumens so you can easily highlight the subject with crisp light.

As you’d expect, the light is built to tough GoPro standards and is waterproof up to 33 feet. The built-in rechargeable battery offers up to six hours of runtime, so whether the photographer in your life is shooting stills, videos, is working underwater or above, they’ll have reliable, clean light to help them achieve their creative vision! 

Learn more about the GoPro Light Mod for Hero 8 Black

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Artbeat Studios 11x14 HD Metal Print

Nothing says happy holidays like a gorgeous metal print, especially when the person you’re buying for is a photographer! So why not surprise the photographer on your list with an incredible HD metal print from Artbeat Studios?! 

Metal is a gorgeous substrate for all manner and type of photos. The crisp, clean detail and modern look is just what the doctor ordered for highlighting a beautiful image.

Artbeat Studios’ HD metal prints are so impressive in part because the image is heat infused directly into the metal. The result is unsurpassed resolution and color vibrancy.

What’s more, Artbeat Studios uses Chromaluxe® brand aluminum sheets. This brand of aluminum has a 3x better permanence than Kodak Silver Halide Prints and resists fading for more than 65 years. So not only is an HD metal print a great gift for this holiday season, but it’s a gift that will keep on giving for decades!

You can customize the look of the print by choosing different finishes, surfaces, and mounts. Additionally, you can choose from two different hanging systems and two different mounts. The result is a breathtaking and custom print that your favorite photographer is sure to love!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios’ HD Metal Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Octopus.Camera OctoPad

If you’re rushing around trying to find that perfect gift for your favorite photographer, you might consider the Octopus.Camera OctoPad as an excellent choice.

The OctoPad offers what many other stabilization devices don’t - it doesn’t collapse under the weight of gear it’s supporting and it doesn’t slide around, even if it’s placed on a smooth or an uneven surface thanks to its weighted non-slip mat design.

The OctoPad has a built-in male 1/4-20 inch threaded bolt for attaching accessories and a high-capacity removable ball head that also has an adjustable 1/4-20 inch threaded male bolt.

That means that not only is the OctoPad well-equipped to stay in place, but it can also support a wide range of gear, from a GoPro to a smartphone to a light or microphone.

There’s even a built-in cable strap to keep cables from getting in your way and a clip grommet for attaching a lanyard to easily carry the OctoPad.

What photographers want in a gift is something that’s versatile and functional, and the OctoPad is definitely both. Best of all, it’s well below the $50 threshold, so you can give an awesome gift without busting your budget!

Learn more about the Octopus.Camera OctoPad

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Ikan Stratus 15mm Static Lens Support

If the photographer on your list has a bunch of accessories for their camera, an Ikan Stratus Cage is all but a must.

And to make the Stratus cage even more functional, you can give the gift of a 15mm static lens support this holiday season.

The support attaches to the non-rotating part of a lens and helps support its weight.

With 7/8-inches of vertical leeway, this gadget can support a lens in a number of positions.

It's easy to use, too - one of the 15mm rod mounts is open and angled, so it can be slid onto the rods from above or from the front.

And at $34.99, it's a bargain gift as well!

Learn more about the Ikan Stratus 15mm Static Lens Support

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Holdfast Camera Leash Leather Wrist Strap

Not every photographer wants or needs a neck strap or camera harness, so why not give them the gift of a tough, useful, and gorgeous leather wrist strap? 

The Camera Leash by Holdfast is impeccably made and comes in a variety of materials, including bridle leather, water buffalo leather, American bison leather, and python skin. There are also several colors available to suit your favorite photographer’s specific tastes.

This strap is multi-functional, too.

Use it to carry your keys and attach them to a belt loop. Secure a water bottle to your backpack. Use two of them together to carry a third camera on the Holdfast MoneyMaker harness. There’s few products under $50 with that much functionality!

Plus, these things look absolutely incredible with fine details that scream, “I’m handcrafted!”

It’s a photography gift that your favorite photographer is sure to love. 

Learn more about the Holdfast Camera Leash

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: HandlePod 3-Axis Action Cam Mount 

Does the photographer on your shopping list like to go out and adventure with their GoPro or other action cam?

I have the ideal gift idea for them - the HandlePod 3-Axis Action Cam Mount.

This ingenious gadget is a comfortable grip for shooting handheld video as well as a handy tabletop stand (or a stand for any horizontal surface for that matter).

Furthermore, it has an integrated elastic cord so you can lash it to stationary objects (i.e., a lamp post) for super steady hands-free recording.

The mount has 360-degree movement so you can capture smooth video and easily position it for the ideal still image as well.

When used as a tabletop stand or lashed to a vertical surface, its four rubber feet keep it in place for anti-slip performance.

Perhaps best of all, it weighs just 4 ounces and fits in your pocket, so your favorite photographer can always have a stabilizing mount with them for their GoPro activities.

Learn more about the HandlePod 3-Axis Action Cam Mount

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Snaptiles

If you’re in need of a killer photography gift, look no further than Snaptiles. Snaptiles are a patented Magnetic Photo Tile that is 8”x8”x1” and super lightweight.

This innovative system uses a single wall mount with a built-in level to anchor a central print to the wall. Then you can snap together the other tiles onto the first! The wall mount uses four adhesive strips that don’t damage the wall, yet offer all the support that’s needed to display up to 12 tiles. Just make sure you press down firmly for 10 seconds. You can also push in the 4 included thumb tacks for additional support, then mount up to 30 tiles on the first tile! Not a bad tradeoff for 4 little pin holes in your wall.

The process is simple: just attach the wall mount to the wall, mount the anchor tile to it, and then begin to create an array of mixed tiles by adding additional Snaptiles.

Each tile connects with strong magnets, so there’s no worry of the tiles sagging or slipping.

Best of all, though, this system enables you to swap images out as you get new photo tiles, rearrange them in the display, and create different shapes with an array of images.

It really couldn’t be any easier!

The images are printed on a premium SBS Acid Free archival paperboard to give you long-lasting durability. On top of that, the UV protective lamination on the tiles has a beautifully soft touch.

I just ordered 25 of these photo tiles for my son’s room. He loves art and he loves building, and I think he will love putting his Snaptiles together (with my help of course!) on his bedroom wall.

This isn’t just a great last-minute gift, but it’s also a fun project you can share with whomever you give them to. It’s a win-win!

Learn more about Snaptiles

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: HDRsoft Photomatix Essentials

Ask any photographer, and they’ll probably tell you that the toughest part of photography to master is exposure.

All too often, you get photos that have highlights that are too bright or shadows that are much too dark. 

But by using the power of HDR photography - high dynamic range - photographers can combine multiple exposures into a single shot, thereby getting a well-exposed image throughout.

Photomatix Essentials by HDRsoft makes that process super easy with dozens of HDR settings and presets for getting the perfect HDR photo.

HDRsoft has even incorporated multiple HDR styles to give photographers further control over how their HDR images look. Truly, creating eye-catching photos has never been easier! 

PLUS...HDRsoft is giving Photomatix Essentials away at the moment as part of their Quarantine Giveaway. You can’t get cheaper than free!

Learn more about HDRsoft Photomatix Essentials 

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

 

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^{Photo by SDI Productions via iStock}

If you're looking for the ideal gift for the photographer on your holiday shopping list, but you have a smaller budget of $50, don't worry - there are plenty of gift ideas for photographers for 2021.

In our latest collection of gifts for photographers, we have all sorts of useful gadgets that any photographer will love.

From a camera wrist strap to photo restoration services to beautiful metal prints, you can't go wrong with these options!

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

If you ask me, one of the best gifts for photographers is a print of one of their favorite photos. It's a great way to honor their craft while also giving them a gift that truly keeps on giving!

And I know what you're thinking...metal prints for under $50 must be pretty low quality. Happily, though, that's just not the case!

Artbeat Studios is known as an industry leader for high-quality metal prints. One of the reasons for this is because Artbeat Studios’ HD metal prints have the image heat infused directly into the metal. The result is unsurpassed resolution and color vibrancy.

Metal is a gorgeous substrate for all manner and type of photos, too. The crisp, clean detail and modern look is just what the doctor ordered for highlighting a beautiful image.

What’s more, Artbeat Studios uses Chromaluxe® brand aluminum sheets. This brand of aluminum has a 3x better permanence than Kodak Silver Halide Prints and resists fading for more than 65 years. So not only is an HD metal print a great gift for this holiday season, but it’s a gift that will keep on giving for decades!

You can also customize the look of the print by choosing different finishes, surfaces, and mounts. One of the newest additions to the options list is the textured matte surface for a true fine art look. 

Whatever options you choose, the result is a breathtaking and custom print that your favorite photographer is sure to love that won't bust your budget!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios’ HD Metal Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Holdfast Camera Leash Leather Wrist Strap

If you really want to impress the photographer on your list, you might think about gifting them a beautiful (and functional!) camera strap.

A prime option is the strap shown above and below - the Holdfast Camera Leash.

As you can see, this camera strap is made of the finest materials, including high-quality leather and stainless steel hardware. There are multiple colors to choose from as well, so you can customize the look of the strap to best fit the photographer on your list.

This strap is multi-functional, too.

Use it to carry your keys and attach them to a belt loop. Secure a water bottle to your backpack. Use two of them together to carry a third camera on the Holdfast MoneyMaker harness. There’s few products under $50 with that much functionality!

Plus, these things look absolutely incredible with fine details that scream, “I’m handcrafted!” - because they are! They're individually hand-tooled and painted in Oklahoma.

It’s a photography gift that your favorite photographer is sure to love!

Learn more about the Holdfast Camera Leash

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Octopus.Camera OctoPad

One of the best gifts you can give the photographer on your list is versatility, and that's exactly what the Octopus.Camera OctoPad delivers.

You can use the OctoPad with a camera, a light, a GoPro, a microphone - you name it! And unlike many other small stabilization devices, it doesn't collapse under the weight of the gear.

Instead, it offers a sturdy, stable base for photo and video equipment. It doesn't slide around, either, because of its non-slip mat design.

The OctoPad has a built-in male 1/4-20 inch threaded bolt for attaching accessories and a high-capacity removable ball head that also has an adjustable 1/4-20 inch threaded male bolt.

There’s even a built-in cable strap to keep cables from getting in your way and a clip grommet for attaching a lanyard to easily carry the OctoPad.

The functionality, size, portability, and price of the OctoPad are just too good to pass up. If you want to truly impress your favorite photographer this holiday season, serve up an OctoPad!

Learn more about the Octopus.Camera OctoPad

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: GoPro HERO9 Black Protective Housing

While GoPros are ruggedly built, having a little added protection will give your favorite photographer additional peace of mind that they can capture the action without worry about their camera.

This case was purpose-built to keep water, mud, dirt, and other debris from contacting the GoPro. In fact, it's waterproof down to 196 feet, so if the photographer on your list has deep-sea diving on their schedule, this GoPro accessory is a must!

The cover offers a skeleton backdoor that gives easy access to the touchscreen. It also enables improved audio capture.

The flat glass lens ensures that users can still get high-quality, sharp images whether they're above or below the water.

Likewise, they'' be able to see what they're doing thanks to the accessibility of the front LCD screen, even with the cover on.

And since it's an official GoPro accessory, you know it will fit the GoPro HERO9 like a glove!

Learn more about the GoPro HERO9 Protective Housing

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Snaptiles

A unique gift idea for the photographer on your holiday shopping list is Snaptiles.

Snaptiles are a patented Magnetic Photo Tile that is 8”x8”x1” and super lightweight.

What makes Snaptiles so unique is that they use a single wall mount that enables you to hang multiple prints without having to put tons of holes in the wall. Here's how it works:

• Place the wall mount on the wall and use the built-in level to anchor a central print to the wall.
• Then you can snap together the other tiles onto the first! The wall mount uses four adhesive strips that don’t damage the wall, yet offer all the support that’s needed to display up to 12 tiles.
• Just make sure you press down firmly for 10 seconds. You can also push in the 4 included thumb tacks for additional support, then mount up to 30 tiles on the first tile! Not a bad tradeoff for 4 little pin holes in your wall.

Each tile connects with strong magnets, so there’s no worry of the tiles sagging or slipping. Instead, they'll give your favorite photographer a clean, crisp photo display to enjoy year-round.

Best of all, though, this system enables you to swap images out as you get new photo tiles, rearrange them in the display, and create different shapes with an array of images.

It really couldn’t be any easier!

The images are printed on a premium SBS Acid Free archival paperboard to give you long-lasting durability. On top of that, the UV protective lamination on the tiles has a beautifully soft touch.

Aside from being well-made and easy to install, Snaptiles offers you the chance to enjoy designing wall displays with the photographer on your list. The manner in which you hang the tiles is really limited only by your imagination. It's a fun way to hang out and enjoy each other's company!

Learn more about Snaptiles

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: PhotoRepairPro

Why not give the gift of making old new again this year?

If the photographer on your list is anything like me, they likely have tons of old photos in boxes in the basement or the attic. Some of those photos have probably seen better days, too.

That being the case, a great gift idea is to have a photo restored to its original glory!

For $34.99, you can give your favorite photographer a repaired photo, including an online proof, a JPEG download, and two 5x7 prints of the image. You even get free shipping on the prints!

No matter if the original image is faded, has creases, or needs to be colorized, PhotoRepairPro has your back.

What's more, they'll improve portraits by removing glare from eyeglasses, smoothing skin, or even changing the background.

There are simply a wealth of possibilities for breathing new life into old memories!

Learn more about PhotoRepairPro

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: HDRsoft Photomatix Essentials

Ask any photographer, and they’ll probably tell you that the toughest part of photography to master is exposure.

All too often, you get photos that have highlights that are too bright or shadows that are much too dark. 

But by using the power of HDR photography - high dynamic range - photographers can combine multiple exposures into a single shot, thereby getting a well-exposed image throughout.

Photomatix Essentials by HDRsoft makes that process super easy with dozens of HDR settings and presets for getting the perfect HDR photo.

HDRsoft has even incorporated multiple HDR styles to give photographers further control over how their HDR images look. Truly, creating eye-catching photos has never been easier! 

Learn more about HDRsoft Photomatix Essentials

Gifts for Photographers under $50: Pre-Owned SanDisk 32GB Extreme PRO 300MB/s SDHC Card

Every photographer needs reliable memory cards, and multiple memory cards at that! 

With MPB's great deals on pre-owned memory cards, you can help the photographer on your list ensure they have the storage capacity they need without spending an arm and a leg.

This SanDisk Extreme PRO SDHC memory card offers up to 300MB/s transfer speeds and shot speeds up to 260MB/s. That kind of speed is what photographers demand!

These cards aren't just ideal for photography, either...

They offer sustained video capture of 30MB/s with up to 128GB of full HD video and cinema-quality 4K video.

In other words, these cards will give photographers the uncompromising performance they demand.

Learn more about the SanDisk Extreme PRO 32GB SDHC Memory Card

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: Ikan Stratus 15mm Static Lens Support

If the photographer on your list has a bunch of accessories for their camera, an Ikan Stratus Cage is all but a must.

And to make the Stratus cage even more functional, you can give the gift of a 15mm static lens support this holiday season.

The support attaches to the non-rotating part of a lens and helps support its weight.

With 7/8-inches of vertical leeway, this gadget can support a lens in a number of positions.

It's easy to use, too - one of the 15mm rod mounts is open and angled, so it can be slid onto the rods from above or from the front.

And at $34.99, it's a bargain gift as well!

Learn more about the Ikan Stratus 15mm Static Lens Support

Gifts for Photographers Under $50: 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 have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards 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.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

 

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^{Photo by Pekic via iStock}

With a $500 budget, there are a lot of incredible gifts for photographers you can buy this holiday season.

From used cameras in excellent condition to camera bags to monitors to improve their workflow, you can give gifts to your favorite photographer that just keep on giving.

And while it seems a little early to be talking about holiday shopping, with so many disruptions to our way of life from the pandemic, it certainly doesn't hurt to start your shopping a little early this year. Let this guide help you zero in on the perfect gifts!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: reMarkable 2

There are plenty of photographers that enjoy writing notes, brainstorming, and otherwise keeping their thoughts organized by using paper notebooks. I'm certainly one of those people.

But at some point, it becomes a little impractical to use paper notebooks, both because of the environmental impact and because of the space you need to store dozens of notebooks in your studio or office.

I, for one, had dozens of Moleskine notebooks floating around my office and it simply became overwhelming trying to keep them organized. So, I switched to paper-like writing on the reMarkable tablet a few years ago. The reMarkable 2 has since been released, and it's even better than the first!

The reMarkable 2 is super thin (the world's thinnest tablet!), lightweight, and has a great feel to it. The marker also feels great in your hands and gives you that tactile experience of writing with an actual pen and paper. I have no doubt that was a difficult thing to achieve, but boy, did the mad scientists at reMarkable figure it out!

The tablet has a 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM processor, 1GB of LPDDR3 SDRAM, 8GH of internal storage (that can accommodate around 100,000 pages of notes), and a marker with tilt-detection capabilities, 4,096 levels of pressure, and a high-friction tip. The marker doesn't require charging, setup, or pairing, either!

Since the tablet has a Linux-based Codex that's optimized for e-paper applications, there is ultra-low latency. You really do get the feeling that you're writing on paper!

You also get 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, USB-C connectivity, and an accessory port, in addition to a 3000mAH battery that is rechargeable via USB-C and will last up to two weeks on a single charge.

It has a beautiful screen, too. The second-generation CANVAS display gives you 10.3-inches of diagonal viewing space with 1872 x 1404 resolution at 226 DPI. Add multi-point capacitive touch, a gorgeous monochrome display, and a writing latency of just 21 milliseconds to the list.

I've had my reMarkable 2 for several months now and have enjoyed it profusely. You can read more about my experience with it in this review.

Learn more about the reMarkable 2

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: SideTrak Solo 4k 15.6-Inch Touchscreen Freestanding Portable Monitor

One thing that photographers require to get their work done is a high-quality monitor.

Good monitors have clear, sharp displays, beautiful colors, and an immersive viewing experience. And for many photographers, having touchscreen capabilities is a must as well. You get all these things (and more!) with the SideTrak Solo 4K 15.6-inch Touchscreen Freestanding Portable Monitor.

Aside from the features listed above, this monitor offers the benefit of being incredibly compatible with other devices. It will work with both Mac and PC, as well as Chrome. It can even be used with gaming consoles!

The 15.6-inch 4K IPS LED screen offers gorgeous color rendition, thin bezels for a seamless picture, and a matte finish to reduce glare. Add to that 10-point touch G+FF technology that enables users to be more productive and multi-task.

You get adjustable settings for brightness, display settings, volume, and the screen orientation too.

And at 14.5” x 9” x 0.35” and 2.9 pounds, this is a lightweight, ultra-portable monitor that can go from the office to home to the field without issue.

With a budget of $500, you can get a lot of great gifts for the photographer on your list. Speaking from experience, a portable monitor is one of the best additions I’ve made to my kit - the photographer you’re shopping for will think the same when they unbox this monitor!

Learn more about the SideTrak Solo 4k 15.6-Inch Touchscreen Freestanding Portable Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: CanvasHQ Print 

It's tough to beat a large-format canvas print as a holiday gift...

Canvas prints offer a classic look with an interesting texture that helps bring the image to life.

What's more, when it's a well-made canvas, like those from CanvasHQ, the print can become a family heirloom - something that you cherish for decades to come. What a powerful gift!

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

What appeals to me about these prints is the impeccable quality. There is a great level of detail and sharpness, beautiful color accuracy, and the frames on which the print is stretched are handmade with kiln-dried wood to ensure the frame stays square and true for years to come.

Additionally, these guys use archival-grade canvas and commercial-grade inks to ensure long-lasting durability.

They also have a new product - a variety of floating frames - that add a touch of elegance and depth to canvas prints.

The floating frames extend along the sides of the print and don't obscure the front of the print, that way you can see 100 percent of the image. It's a clean, dynamic finish that looks great!

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm Lens

If you have a photographer on your holiday gift list that wants to upgrade from using their cell phone or an older digital camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a great option.

The fine folks at Samy’s have the T7 bundled with an 18-55mm kit lens for just $449, so you can help your loved one advance their photography skills while being well under the $500 mark.

The Rebel line of cameras from Canon are aimed at beginner photographers, so they feature easy-to-use controls, yet they also offer features that will allow your loved one to learn new skills, perfect their photographic approach, and take high-quality images.

This camera has a 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor that generates images that are resolute enough to create large-format prints. If instant sharing is preferable, you can do so easily with built-in WiFi and NFC to share images quickly and easily with family and friends.

Other features include a 3.0-inch LCD display, full HD video recording, up to 3 fps continuous shooting for action shots, and an ISO range of 100-6400. The Canon T7 also comes equipped with a built-in flash, a fast autofocus system, and the camera can be used as a webcam.

And since this bundle includes an 18-55mm zoom lens, your loved one will be able to begin using the camera right off the bat - no need for them to spend their own money on a lens. In other words, this is a perfect gift idea for the photography enthusiast on your list!

Learn more about the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: SideTrak Swivel Portable Monitor

As a photographer that has a laptop as my primary computer, I know the struggles of having enough screen space to get things done.

And my guess is that you have a photographer in your life that struggles with the same thing…

But the SideTrak Swivel Portable Monitor is a great solution to this problem.

You can instantly double the amount of screen space that’s available by attaching the SideTrak Swivel to the back of a laptop. It’s easy, too!

The Swivel attaches securely to the laptop screen using a device-safe metal plate and is compatible with any laptop size or operating system.

Once attached, the photographer on your holiday list will reap the benefits of having a 12.5-inch full HD screen in addition to the laptop screen. The Swivel can either mirror what’s on the laptop screen or extend it - whatever is needed!

Plus, the Swivel rotates 270-degrees and swivels 360-degrees for greater functionality and ease of use. Speaking of ease of use, it can be used while attached to a laptop or with the built-in kickstand in either landscape or portrait mode.

With features like auto screen rotation, adjustable brightness, and an anti-glare screen, this is a gift that’s loaded up with benefits.

Plus, at just 1.2 pounds, this monitor is something that can slide into a camera bag or briefcase and be taken on the road with ease.

SideTrak offers free standard shipping, a one-year warranty, and a risk-free 30-day program, too. That’s the kind of peace of mind you want when shopping for a gift for a loved one!

Learn more about the SideTrak Swivel Portable Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Sound Shark

The video capabilities of today's cameras have come a long way - I mean, we can record in 8K now!

But where modern cameras still lack high-quality performance is in their audio recording capabilities. That's why something like the Sound Shark from Klover Products is such a great gift idea for the photographer on your list.

The Sound Shark offers incredible clarity at a greater distance than a standard mic. So, if you're recording video, the person speaking doesn't even need to wear a microphone if they're within about six feet of the Sound Shark. The sound is truly amazing - it sounds like you're wearing a lavalier mic even when you aren't!

The parabolic design also helps eliminate background noise, so your video has clear, crisp audio to go with beautiful high-resolution video footage.

On top of that, the Sound Shark is water and weather-resistant, so if you get caught in an afternoon drizzle, you won't have to worry about your microphone getting damaged.

At just 10 ounces and 11” x 9” x 3” in size, this mic is lightweight and easy to use, too. It truly is an incredible gift idea if the photographer you're shopping for has aspirations to be a videographer.

Learn more about the Sound Shark

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: f-stop Tilopa 50L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list has a lot of gear that they need to carry easily, there's no better solution than this 50L bag from f-stop.

This new-and-improved Tilopa comes with all sorts of features like DuraDiamond 315D HT nylon ripstop material, an internal metal frame, and Contoured BLOOM EVA padded hip belt and shoulder straps for making it a comfortable carrying experience.

The bags by f-stop are always impeccably designed and built, and the new Tilopa is no exception...

It features 700 Nylon Ripstop lining fabric, 500mm Polyurethane coating, and heavy-duty stitching with industrial-bonded thread. There's even weatherproof heavy-gauge zippers that help ensure whatever photography gear is inside the bag stays nice and dry.

With 50 liters of capacity, this bag can accommodate a heck of a lot of gear. And all that gear can be neatly organized in a number of different f-stop ICUs that fit inside the bag.

And as if all those features aren't enough, the bag comes with a 45-day full satisfaction guarantee. If you don't like the bag, you get a full refund!

There's also a 20-year warranty against manufacturer defects for added peace of mind.

This is simply an incredible bag and one that any adventurous photographer would love to call their own!

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa 50L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Backpack

Blackfire 500W Portable Power Station

I know what you’re thinking...why is there a portable power station on a gift guide for photographers? 

Well, it’s simple! When your favorite photographer is out on a photo shoot and needs to charge their phone, tablet, drone batteries, camera batteries, or run their laptop or another small appliance like photography lights, they need a power source to do so. And this 500W Portable Power Station from Blackfire certainly fits the bill.

What’s so nice about this power station is that photographers can charge it up at home before they head out and have hours of clean, silent power for their devices. Better still, this power station can be charged in the car or with an optional solar panel, giving you three different ways of topping off the battery.

Keeping track of battery power and output is simple with the large, easy-to-read display on the front of the unit. There, you’ll find details about the battery like input and output data as well as how much time is needed to charge the battery (or how much time is left until the battery is empty).

In terms of power outputs, this power station packs a punch with a 12V DC port, two 120V AC ports, and four USB ports (two Type-A, one Type-C, and one Type-C PD). In other words, no matter what the photographer on your holiday list needs to charge up, this power station will have them covered.

 

I also really like the size of this power station. It weighs just 12.1 pounds and measures 11.8'' × 7.5'' × 7.3”, so it’s supremely portable. When you have a ton of camera gear to lug around, you don’t want to add a big, bulky power station to the mix. But since this one is so small and lightweight (and has a nice, big handle), it’s easy to carry from the car to the shoot location.

Whoever you give this to will appreciate the pedigree that’s associated with Blackfire. While Blackfire is new to the power station space, it’s owned by Klein Tools, which have been making high-quality tools for well over 150 years. It’s that kind of experience that you want behind a product you invest your hard-earned money in!

There are plenty of great gift ideas for the photographer in your life, but with a budget of $500, it’s tough to beat the versatility and functionality of this power station!

Learn more about the Blackfire 500W Portable Power Station

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: DJI Mini SE

If you live outside the United States you may have already had access to the DJI Mini SE for a while now, but for those of us in the U.S., it only recently became available.

This little drone weighs about as much as a smartphone, yet has a 30-minute flight time, a 2.7K camera, the ability to take 12MP photos, and a 3-axis gimbal. It’s also equipped with DJI’s QuickShot functions, including “circle,” “helix,” “rocket,” and “dronie.”

The Mini SE offers upgraded wind resistance as well. It can resist winds from 18 mph up to 23.6 mph. It can also take off at altitudes of 13,100 feet, so whether you're at the beach on a windy day or high in the mountains, this little drone will service you well.

The best news is that the Mini SE is priced at just $299. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, especially when you have a budget of $500.

Learn more about the DJI Mini SE

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Holdfast Sightseer Camera and Lens Modular System

One of the things that gets in the way of taking great photos is not being able to carry all the gear that you need in comfort. Additionally, problems arise when you aren’t able to easily access your gear when you need it.

The Holdfast Sightseer solves both of those problems for the photography lover on your shopping list this holiday season.

The Sightseer holds a crazy amount of gear for a small bag. That includes up to a 13-inch laptop, a camera with lens attached, two additional lenses, and all the needed accessories inside the bag.

But because it’s a modular system, you can add even more gear by adding Lens Pouches that attach to the exterior of the bag (or you can carry them on the Holdfast MoneyMaker or even on your own belt). That means that the big zoom lens that won’t fit in the bag can be carried safely in a padded Lens Pouch attached to the outside.

Since the Sightseer is a truly modular system, you can mix and match lens pouches as you need to carry as much or as little gear as the situation calls for. What’s more, this system can grow with you as you get more gear - start out lean and mean with just the Sightseer bag, and as more lenses are accumulated, add Lens Pouches as needed.

Better still, because your gear is easily accessible, you don’t have to worry about missing a shot.

It’s easy to carry, too. Just use the two sets of carrying handles, the shoulder strap, or attach it to the Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera strap for a super easy way to get your gear from point A to point B.

These bags look amazing, too, with a waxed canvas and American Bison leather exterior and an Aztec flannel fleece interior. In other words, the Sightseer is the complete package!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Pre-Owned Canon EOS M50

A pre-owned camera is an ideal gift for a photographer because it saves you money and gives them a like-new gift that serves every purpose and function that the same brand-new camera would provide.

In this case, the Canon EOS M50 is a nice option for a beginner photographer's first camera or a more advanced photographer that needs a second camera body.

The M50 sports a 224.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that's paired with Canon's DIGIC 8 processor. If the photographer on your list likes to photograph wildlife or action, the 10 fps burst shooting rate will be a nice bonus.

This camera boasts a host of other features, too.

For example, it has a native ISO range of 100-25600 that's expandable to 51200 for shooting in low-light situations. It has a host of video capabilities as well, including UHD 4K video at 24fps, full HD video at 60fps, and 720p video at 120fps for slow-motion video capture.

For still imagery, the M50 has Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which helps generate accurate, sharp images thanks to quick autofocu performance. This feature also works for shooting video.

Add in 5-axis image stabilization to the mix and you have the makings of a well-featured camera for still photography and videography use!

Learn more about the Canon EOS M50.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: f-stop Anja 37L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

If the f-stop Tilopa 50-liter bag is a bit too big for your loved one's needs, the Anja 37-liter bag might just do the trick.

While this bag is smaller than the Tilopa, it offers many of the same upgrades and benefits discussed earlier.

For example, the outer shell is crafted of the same highly-durable DuraDiamond fabric that's also lighter, stronger, and more weather resistant than other materials.

The Anja also features weather-resistant zippers that are woven in for much greater strength.

The structure of the back is a combination of T6 aluminum and plastic that gives the bag loads of strength without adding weight. The aluminum frame shifts the weight of the pack to the hips for improved all-day comfort.

The bag has all kinds of organization and storage features inside, in the pockets, lid, and back panel.

And, like the Tilopa, the Anja can accommodate various ICUs, including the Slope Medium and the Pro Large.

Again, this bag is beautifully designed, impeccably crafted, and offers smart storage and organization for tons of gear. Talk about a great holiday gift idea!

Learn more about the f-stop Anja 37L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

What photographer doesn't want or need an awesome camera bag?? As such, a camera bag is a fantastic idea for the photographer on your list.

My primary bag is thePeter McKinnon Nomatic Camera Pack, and I can't say enough about what an incredible bag this thing is.

As I explain in the video above, not only is this a beautiful bag, this is also incredibly versatile and full of features. Just take a look at some of its primary features:

• Holds 35 liters of gear (and expands to hold a whopping 42 liters)
• Water-resistant
• External straps to carry items like your tripod
• Removable interior dividers for customizing the bag to your needs
• Easy side access for quickly grabbing your camera 
• Comfortable straps (including chest strap and waist belt) for a more comfortable carrying experience
• Space for your clothes too!

You can tell that this bag was designed by a photographer. It is simply fantastic from the standpoints of size, customization, comfort, and ease of use.

This bag is $400, and while that might seem like a lot, when you consider that this is a bag that you’ll have for YEARS, it’s really a long-term investment. Besides, since there's compartments for camera gear and clothing, it's the perfect weekend bag!

Sure, you can buy a cheap bag, but when you are carrying around gear on your back, don’t you want the most comfortable bag you can get?

Learn more about the Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Colorado Tripod Company Aspen Ballhead

If you've never heard of Colorado Tripod Company, you've been missing out...

I've tested a number of their products, and regardless of whether it was a tripod or a ballhead, these guys have impressed the heck out of me.

If you have a photographer on your list, I strongly urge you to consider the Aspen Ballhead as a great gift idea for under $250. Here's why...

This ballhead has a capacity of 30 pounds, so even photographers with the largest camera and lens combination will be able to use this bad boy.

It's made of aluminum and comes in two different ball designs - standard and hollow - the latter of which weighs just .97 pounds.

The ballhead has an adjustable level clamp on top that's compatible with L-brackets and Arca plates. There's also dedicated friction control and replaceable locking knobs. On top of that, the patent-pending design eliminates panning drift.

I've used this ballhead in all sorts of scenarios taking photos and videos, and it has proven to be a durable, reliable, and easy-to-use ballhead that improves my workflow.

Plus, that hollow ball design is simply genius - it's one of those things that makes you say, "Why didn't someone think of that before?"

The hollow design helps save weight, which for landscape photographers is a BIG deal. Plus, this ballhead has an incredible range of motion that gives photographers all the versatility they need to capture their photos and videos. In fact, you can adjust the Aspen ballhead beyond the 90-degree limit, so you can likely move from vertical to horizontal orientation without having to adjust the tripod's legs. That's a HUGE benefit!

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Aspen Ballhead

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