^{photo byEvan Austen via iStock}

Hawaii is one of the most exciting places in the United States. It’s made up of 8 major islands, one of which is completely closed off to everyone who is not a native Hawaiian. So, it makes sense that this is an ecological paradise. 

While you cannot go to Niihau (unless you marry an inhabitant), you can go to Oahu (the island with arguably the prettiest landscapes and unarguably the most incredible Asian food).  

And, if you’re planning on making your vacation a working vacation, then you’re going to need some tips about places to photograph in Hawaii. 

Here are our favorite popular Hawaii photography spots; we also may have snuck some local favorites in as well.

Yokohama Bay at Sunset

 ^{photo byNalunani_Photography via iStock}

Sunset Beach is overrated and I’m the first person to say it. It’s gorgeous, but it’s constantly flooded with tourists, which makes photographing the natural landscape incredibly difficult. 

Yokohama Bay is an incredibly well-kept local secret. It lies all the way on the far northwestern tip of Oahu, which means it will take you about an hour long drive through tropical forests to reach. 

Yokohama Bay is quite a long beach, which means even on the most popular travel days, you should be able to find a huge spot to stakeout for yourself. Plus, Yokohama, or “yokes,” isn’t featured in any Hawaii photography guide yet, so you won’t be fighting crowds even on the weekends. 

As is the case with most of Hawaii’s best kept secrets, there are very few photographs available online of this secret paradise. Thanks to Papahui Hawaii for the video about Yokohama Bay.

While you can photograph this gorgeous beach any time of the day, the sunset here is the best on the island. 

Plus, you can make an entire day of Yokohama and photograph the wildlife in the area, like the endangered Hawaiian monk seal featured in this video by BlueWorldTV. 

Pro Tip: There’s a hiking trail at the very end of Yokohama Bay which takes you to Ka’ena Point. During the winter months, you can find the world’s largest population of nesting albatross at Ka’ena Point, and during the summer months (if you’re lucky) you can photograph endangered Hawaiian monk seals resting along the shores.

Ko’olau Mountain Range

^{photo by Teri Wertman via iStock} 

The Ko’olau mountains are one of my favorite places to photograph in Hawaii because they are huge, which means there are hundreds of hikes you can take on them to snap a photo nobody else ever has before. 

The Ko’olaus are located on the westward side of the island, opposite from Honolulu. They also wrap around a small Hawaiian town, “Waimanalo,” which the locals refer to as “God’s Country.”  

While you’re out photographing the Ko’olaus, you can stop by any one of the farms located in Waimanalo.

^{photo by Joshua McDonough via iStock} 

A favorite spot for the locals is Waimanalo Country Farms, which hosts pumpkin patches and sunflower fields year round. 

As much as I love all of the flora and fauna that is local to Oahu, it’s always fun to read about travel tips for Hawaii that remind you of home, but with a twist. 

It’s definitely an odd feeling to visit a pumpkin patch in the middle of the Pacific, but an experience that is not to be missed. 

Editor's Tip: When I head out for a long photography journey, I want a camera bag that's bulletproof and can accommodate a lot of gear. For that, I've got the Nomatic Check-In. This bag has a lightweight polycarbonate shell that'll stand up well to the rigors of airline travel. It has TSA locking zippers, low-profile handles that won't get caught in luggage systems, and it holds up to 78 liters of gear!

Byodo-In Temple

^{photo by Kirkikis via iStock} 

The Byodo-In Temple was created to commemorate the first time Japanese immigrants came to the island of Oahu. It is a smaller replica of a nearly 1,000 year old temple located in Uji, Japan. 

After you’re done photographing all of the other places to photograph in Hawaii on this list, you may need a bit of relaxation, which is what the Byodo-In Temple is all about. 

The temple itself houses a 9-foot-tall Buddha, which is thought to be the largest Buddha sculpture outside of Japan. Despite the fact that this is not a practicing temple, you must remove your footwear before entering to show respect for the religion. 

The temple grounds are almost more beautiful, though. The temple is surrounded by a huge koi pond. You can purchase coconuts and trinkets from the tea house. Finally, the temple is located in a place called the “Valley of the Temples,” which also houses beautiful graveyards with intricately designed mausoleums and granite headstones for many wealthy Japanese families.

^{photo by kcastagnola  via iStock} 

Pro tip: I’m not usually a fan of using a Hawaii travel guide, but they do have one good tip: don’t forget your bug spray. While the temple itself shouldn’t have many bugs, the less populated gardens surrounding the temple (which are an absolute must see) will. Don’t let a fear of mosquitos keep you from banging the three-ton gong (which is said to bring happiness and a long life) or meditate in the pavilion which is open to people of all faiths. 

Any One of the Hundreds of Waterfalls

^{photo by Marcel Fuentes  via iStock} 

I could create an entire list of places to photograph in Hawaii of just different waterfalls.  

Some waterfalls are easy to reach, like Manoa Falls which requires a .8 mile hike along a well-maintained trail. 

Some other waterfalls are a little more difficult, like Maunawili Falls which requires a 4-mile round trip hike through a well-marked, but less well-maintained trail. Maunawili is for the adventurers among you because once you scramble through the slippery tree root paved path, and wade through a river, you can actually cliff dive off of the waterfall into a pool at the bottom.  

^{photo by Don White via iStock} 

Some waterfalls, on the other hand, are only for the serious adventurers. One of my favorite places to photograph in Hawaii is a series of 3 waterfalls along Ka’au Crater. 

But, Ka’au Crater will take you at least 6 hours to hike, and climb, and fall. There are multiple points on this trail where it is only a single rope tied lovingly by another hiker between you and certain death.  

Do you trust your hiking capabilities as much as your photography skills?  

Learn More:

• 4 Reasons Why Oregon Should Be Your Next Photography Destination
• Top 10 Things to Photograph In Iceland

Diamond Head Crater

^{photo by Noah Sauve via iStock} 

Skip the crowds at Waikiki in favor of this spot overlooking it. Diamond Headis a .8 mile trail along the rim of an old volcano that helped to form Oahu.

Of all my Hawaii photography tips, my number one tip is to get as far out of Waikiki to photograph as possible. And there’s not much farther you can get than nearly one mile into the air over it.

And if Waikiki is still on your places to photograph in Hawaii bucket list, then you can catch beautiful aerial photos of it like the one above from the top of Diamond Head. 

Shark’s Cove

^{photo by BackyardProduction via iStock} 

Shark’s Cove is not known for its sharks (although you may find some reef sharks if you know where to look) but it is known for its beauty. 

If you don’t know what to photograph in Hawaii, other than sea turtles, then this is definitely the place for you because it is one of the most likely places for a turtle sighting, but it has so much more to offer as well.  

Shark’s Cove has the best snorkeling on the island, which means underwater photography enthusiasts will have the time of their lives.

^{photo by LFPuntel via iStock} 

There are plenty of underwater caves, fluorescent schools of fish, and impeccably clear bodies of water here.

Editor's Tip: Traveling to Hawaii requires a multiple-day stay. After all, you can't appreciate it beauty on a quick trip! The Nomatic Check-In is the ideal bag for a multi-day adventure. It has a customizable folding compression panel to maximize interior space. It also has a full perimeter expansion zipper that gets you 12 liters of additional space. This bag is well-made, perfectly designed, and ultra functional. Just what you want in a travel bag!

Kualoa Ranch

^{photo by maximkabb via iStock} 

If you’re lucky enough to get invited to Kualoa Ranch, take the opportunity. Technically, the entirety of Kualoa Ranch is private property (although they do host a variety of tours through the more well-traveled portion of the land). 

Most of Jurassic Park was shot on Kualoa land, which speaks for the otherworldly beauty of it. 

You can see some of this beauty in this video by Devinsupertramp. 

Some places to photograph in Hawaii are a little more difficult to get into. This is one of them. Although, Kualoa Ranch hosts a half marathon every November where runners can trek through the backcountry of the ranch. So, if you’re really hoping to shoot here, you may want to start training. 

Lanikai Beach (and “The Mokes”)

 ^{photo by ShaneMyersPhoto via iStock} 

Lanikai Beach is another well-hidden treasure on the westward side of the island. A little less than one mile from Lanikai Beach are a set of twin islands, called “the mokes” by the locals that you can kayak to.  

There’s a natural turtle feeding ground between the beach and the islands, so don’t forget to look down during your journey out.  

Plus, these islands provide an incredible spot for landscape photography shots that you would otherwise need to lease a boat to get.  

Pro Tip: After a long day photographing Lanikai Beach, head over to Lanikai Brewing for an authentic, island inspired brew.  

The Haiku Stairs

 ^{photo by SvetlanaSF via iStock} 

This hike is technically very illegal. But, nobody said popular Hawaii photography spots were easy to get to. 

The Haiku Stairs, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, hike is illegal because it’s incredibly dangerous. The stairs were created during World War II to allow military members to build a naval radio station on the summit of Puu Keahiakahoe. And, its nearly 4,000 stairs haven’t had many repairs since that time. 

Unless you’re planning on outrunning the 24-hour security guards at the bottom of this hike, or paying the $1,000 fine, you can do the legal hike on the other side of the mountain which brings you to the summit where you can then hike down some of the stairs to get those quintessential shots.  

Learn More:

• Vietnam Photography and Travel Guide
• 10 Things to Photograph in Costa Rica

Mermaid Caves

^{Photo by Pono Lopez on Unsplash}

One of the more popular places to photograph in Hawaii are the mermaid caves off the Nanakuli Beach coast. 

These caves, which were created by the steady erosion of lava tunnels, provide a photographer’s paradise. 

However, don’t get in if you’re not comfortable swimming in strong tides and make sure to check the wave report before you go out. People have been stuck in the caves during high tide and drowned.  

Planning Your Hawaii Photography Trip

• Where to stay: Hilton Hawaiian Village offers 4-star accommodations in Waikiki, and depending on the time of year, rooms can be found for around $250. 
• Where to eat: For fish straight out of the ocean as soon as your plane lands, head to Nico’s Pier for a delicious poke bowl. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck on the island's north shore is a must with nearly 30 years of happy customers more than willing to vouch for eating out of the back of a truck.
• Where to fly into: Daniel K. Inouye Airport is the largest airport in Hawaii.
• Where to rent a car: Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget all operate out of the airport.
• Best luggage: For a trip of this length, the Nomatic Check-In roller bag is the ideal choice. It offers polycarbonate construction that stands up to the rigors of travel, silent wheels, low-profile handles, and a three-stage aluminum handle to fit your height. With space for 78 liters of gear, this bag has plenty of room for a 5-day trip or longer.
• Best camera: The GoPro Hero 8 Black can go from the top of Kilauea to below the surface of the ocean and everywhere in between. Shoot beautiful still photos, crisp 4K video, and take advantage of tons of features like HyperSmooth to get stabilized footage.
• Check the weather in Hawaii right now.

 

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 ^{photo byandresr via iStock}

Photography gifts are one of the hardest types of gifts to buy, because most photographers I know already have all of the gear they need. Photography gifts are also really tough to buy for people because, oftentimes, they are incredibly expensive. You can’t buy a new camera for under $500 anymore and other types of camera gear are also going way up in price.

So, for those of you looking for photography gift ideas, I compiled this list of top photography gifts. 

For this list, it was a prerequisite that these ideas are cheap. In fact, all of the ideas on this list are photography gifts under $100. Some of them are even photography gifts under $50. We didn’t want anyone to feel left out. 

I can also assure you that the photographer in your life likely doesn’t have any of the photography gifts on this list because I went out of my way to find the most unique photography gifts. 

PhotoRepairPro

No matter how much gear the photographer in your life has, I can assure you they likely have old photographs, that they either took in their youth or that their parents or grandparents took decades ago, that need to be restored.  

Restoring old photos is really hard work, especially if the photos are damaged from the sun or water. You not only have to organize all of them, but you also have to restore them and finally upload them to a digital version. 

To take all of the guesswork out of this process, you can give your photographer a PhotoRepairPro order. PhotoRepairPro specializes in restoring old photos. They can colorize old black and white or sepia photos. They can also fix discolored or faded photos. 

I love PhotoRepairPro because you pay just one flat rate and you get the photo repair, an online proof, a JPEG download, and two 5” x 7” prints shipped to your home for free. 

I found PhotoRepairPro because they worked with Costco for years. So, when Costco closed down all of their photo centers, I started working directly with PhotoRepairPro. 

Orders with PhotoRepairPro make the perfect photography gifts because they help you to preserve a family’s history. These orders also make the perfect photography gifts because they are cheap. Each order is just $35.

“A History of Photography” Book

Something no photographer will ever turn down is education. The best photographers continue to study their craft until the day they die and by purchasing “A History of Photography” book for the photographer in your life, you can help them continue this education.

“A History of Photography” is a book written by William Johnson. It outlines the entire history of photography, from 1839 to the 2000s. While its primary purpose is to provide information about the evolution of photographic processes, I really love this book because of the gorgeous photos in it. If you’ve been looking for photography gifts that can be put on display, then this book is perfect because it works so well as a coffee table book.  

This book is also perfect if you’ve been looking for photography gifts under $20 because it is currently available on Amazon for $15.99. 

Peter McKinnon x Nomatic Everyday Camera Lineup

Another awesome gift idea for the photographer in your life (or for yourself, for that matter) is the Everyday Camera Backpack and Sling from Peter McKinnon and Nomatic.

I've been a huge fan of Nomatic for years. They craft some truly beautiful stuff that isn't just pretty - it's functional, too.

I have the first bag that Peter McKinnon and Nomatic partnered on - the Camera Pack - and it quickly became my daily driver bag for my gear.

So imagine my excitement when I learned of the second collaboration between these guys for the Everyday Camera Lineup.

True to form, these bags are the height of form and function. They look incredible, are made of durable materials, and have been smartly designed such that they enhance your workflow as you're out shooting.

For example, the backpack has multiple access points so you can easily grab your gear for the shot. And inside is 25 liters of space for all your camera gear. But you don't just throw it all in the bag, of course. Nomatic has incorporated a genius "ladder system" that allows you to compartmentalize the bag as you see fit. This helps keep your gear neat and organized.

In the sling, you'll find more ways to keep your gear tidy. For example, there's dedicated memory card and battery pockets to keep those small items easy to grab and out of the bottom of the bag.

The sling also sports tripod carrying straps, and the bag fits perfectly into the aforementioned Camera Pack if you or your favorite photographer already has one of those.

This lineup of bags is simply at the top of its class. If you're serious about photography, or you have a hard-core photographer on your shopping list, I'd highly recommend one or both of these bags as great gift ideas.

You can learn much more about the Everyday Lineup over on Kickstarter.

Learn More:

• How to Breathe New Life Into Faded Photos
• Simple Tips for Restoring Photos

Raya 5-in-1 Reflector Disk

If you’re shopping for a professional photographer, then feel free to skip to the other photography gifts below, because they likely already own a reflector disc.

However, if you’re shopping for a hobbyist, then a reflector disc is one of the best gifts you can buy for them, especially if they’re ever planning on taking portraits or family photos for money. 

The Raya 5-in-1 Collapsible Reflector Disc allows photographers to capture light under any conditions. It adds a glow to photos. This particular disc comes in three different sizes, although I recommend the 32” size, which is only $20. 

This reflector folds down to one-third of its size so that you can always carry it around with you in your backpack. It also features white, silver, gold and black surfaces, which are the most popular colors for reflectors.

“The Art of Photography” Book

Another wonderful book about photography is “The Art of Photography” by Bruce Barnbaum. It’s definitely a more traditional book and I should point out here that about a third of the book is strictly about film techniques, but I still think it is one of the best photography books I’ve ever read. 

Barnbaum is somehow able to take really abstract ideas and boil them down to actionables. So, if you are shopping for photography gifts for a photographer that has been doing photography for a while and are feeling stuck in their craft, then this book is great. It will enable them to expand their creativity. 

1TB External Hard Drive

Something that people who aren’t photographers frequently don’t think about is the amount of storage required to keep all of your photos safe. The rule of thumb is that every photo should be in three places so that you’ll still have a copy of it even if a tragedy should occur (like a fire or theft). 

For this reason, even professional photographers who already have multiple external hard drives are thrilled to receive another one. 

I recommend the LaCie 1TB Rugged Drive, which is $70 on B&H, because it can really take a beating. A lot of photography schools recommend it for the same reason. 

Learn More:

• How to Save Water-Damaged Photos
• Photo Restoration Just Got Easier 

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^{photo byPeopleImages via iStock}

Certain things we do as photographers, videographers, or as small business operators waste time, money, and effort. Industry analysts call these things productivity challenges. What are some of the common productivity issues for photographers and are there simple productivity solutions for photographers in business for themselves?

Connectivity is a Two-Edged Sword

^{photo bymaster1305 via iStock}

We all want to learn how to improve our photography and our businesses, how to be a more productive photographer. The internet is a great place to find information such as new techniques or a better way to use an old technique and general photography business tips.

Many times, we can find  just what we need to solve some of our photography productivity problems with a search engine. For instance, you may have this very article by typing “productivity problems for photographers” into your favorite search engine. By the way, we’re glad you found us, check out our other articles, too.

But if we’re not careful, that same source of information we are pleased to have found can become a cause of major productivity challenges. How so? It has to do, not with the fine information, tips, or instruction, but with our use of how much time we spend on it.

Take Time Out to Learn

^{photo byinsta_photos via iStock}

It is going to take an investment of our time to learn a new technique or to improve in some aspect of our business, but we can so easily fall into the common time stealer of not sticking to a plan of how much and when to do and read.

Even this site, PhotographyTalk.com, which I’m proud to say is a very beneficial source of photographic instruction for many photographers at all skill levels, can end up wasting our time. 

It goes like this: I have a question or problem, I search online to find answers and actually do find a great source, but then I get sidetracked because there’s so much to look at. Before I knew it, my 15 minutes of fixing one small issue turned into over 2 hours of interesting reading. We all do this from time to time and it’s one of the biggest productivity challenges of our online professional lives. 

The solution is to have a plan of action, a schedule, and self control. I need to learn new things but I also really only have so much time available for that. So, budgeting out time for various aspects of our online learning is necessary. And then, in my leisure time I can go back and read for fun. This works for anything online, not just photography business tips.

Learn More:

• 4 Tips for Running a Photography Business
• Tips for Processing Landscape Photos
• Portrait Post-Processing Tips

Invest In the Right Tools

^{photo bystructuresxx via iStock}

Yes, a good photographer can make beautiful images with very basic equipment, but sometimes we can invest in purchasing a tool that helps us do a better job or makes that job go easier and quicker.

Let’s look at three examples of what I mean. One is exposure bracketing, the second is using widescreen monitors that can tile programs, and the third is having a camera bag system to keep yourself organized.

Exposure Bracketing

When you aren’t using a certain technique, you have to find a way to get the job done otherwise. For instance, when I made my first spherical panorama for an interactive photo tour, I used a camera with very limited bracketing capability. 

It took me twice as long to make those first tours as it does now because I’m using a better nodal mount and a camera with a wider bracketing range. So, investing in a camera upgrade actually made it easier and quicker to get the photos I needed, plus it eliminates extra possibilities for me messing up and losing track of what exposures to make.

Upgrade Editing

Editing photographic images and videography can be time consuming, which is to be expected, since there are often multiple operations being worked across multiple images or lots of video footage. Anything to assist us with these productivity challenges will be welcome.

Before I upgraded my own editing studio, I wondered just how much it would help me overcome basic processing productivity challenges. I’m now using a dual monitor setup based on the ViewSonic VP3881 38” curved screen monitor and ViewSonic VP3481 34” curved screen monitor. 

First, the ultrawide curved screens of these larger monitors provide an immersive viewing experience, which already improves editing workflow over using the smaller monitors of our laptops or smaller monitors that came with a desktop kit. 

Second, the wider aspect ratio allows tiling of multiple programs at once, in other words, you can see multiple operations at the same time without needing to switch between windows or operations constantly. Until I tried it, I really didn’t know exactly  how much this impacts photo and video editing productivity challenges. 

A couple of other reasons to upgrade monitors is to get super accurate colors and sharper resolution on the monitor like these ViewSonic monitors which also helps ease up productivity challenges since a more comfortable editing session will speed up everything we do.

Get a Better Bag

Those of you that know me know that one of my absolute favorite bags is my Peter McKinnon Nomatic Camera Pack. I've raved about it quite often as the ideal mix of form and function. 

But now Nomatic and Peter McKinnon have done it again with the brand-new Everyday Camera Line that's currently on Kickstarter.

As per usual with Nomatic's Kickstarter campaigns, this one blew the doors off on the first day, far exceeding their $100,000 goal. And it makes sense why - because this is a product that photographers can use to boost their productivity and their organization.

In addition to the usual beautiful design, this system includes a backpack and a sling pack.

The backpack is thoroughly customizable for virtually any type of kit. You get room for your laptop, two water bottle pockets that double as tripod carriers, and nice, beefy shoulder pads that make it a comfortable carrying experience.

The sling, meanwhile, super easy to access, has dedicated slots for batteries and memory cards, and it fits perfectly inside the Camera Pack. And just like the Everyday Backpack, it's made of water-resistant materials.

You even get a camera tech organizer that works with both Everyday bags. It's the ideal solution for carrying small items like memory cards, batteries, your action camera, and so forth.

Head over to Kickstarter to get more details!

Schedules

 ^{photo byphotoschmidt via iStock}

We’re most self-employed as professional photographers and videographers, which allows us great freedom of how to use our time. One of the best ways of how to be a more productive photographer is to have a regular schedule for all of our self support work.

Staying up all night editing images or video footage is available to us but it may not be the best use of our time. Especially if doing that negatively affects the quality of our finished product. 

Except for those exceptional circumstances requiring putting forth a ton of extra work within a short time, which will come up from time to time, sticking with a schedule of when to do work allows us to be consistently good. Our schedules may be loose and flexible, but it’s a good idea to stick with one as a self-employed business person whenever we can.

As a plug, I’m going to suggest coming back to PhotographyTalk.com regularly in order to find other photography business tips and photographic techniques that can improve our images and videos and help us solve some of our productivity challenges.  

But don’t spend all your time here! Go out and enjoy being a professional photographer! 

Learn More:

• 3 Common Photography Business Mistakes
• Productivity Tips to Jumpstart Your Success
• Stock Photography Success Tips: Planning and Research

 

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^{Photo by Chalabala via iStock}

Each year, we do a review of some of the very best bags on the market.

I either own or have extensively tested each bag on this list, so I can speak from experience about each bag's specs, features, pros, and cons.

It seems like camera bags are becoming more and more sophisticated. Or maybe I'm just getting older...

Either way, this year's list of the top camera bags is something to behold. Let's get to it!

Best Camera Bags of 2021: HEX Ranger DSLR Sling & Ranger Mini Sling

^{HEX Ranger Mini in Glacier Camo}

If you’re not so much a shoulder bag or backpack kind of person, a sling bag might be right up your alley.

Two of the best sling bags I’ve tested in recent years both come from HEX: the Ranger DSLR Sling and the Ranger Mini Sling. And there’s a host of reasons why this is the case…

^{HEX Ranger Sling in Black}

For starters, the Ranger DSLR and Ranger Mini Sling bags are affordable, priced at $99.95 and $69.95, respectively. Where similar bags can run into the hundreds of dollars, with these bags, you can get a bag that fits your needs while still having money left over to actually buy gear to put in it!

Secondly, these bags are loaded for bear with features. They’re compact and lightweight. Both have collapsible interior dividers for improved packability. And with side adjustable load straps and adjustable bottom carry straps, you can customize the carrying experience each time you go out to shoot.

^{HEX Ranger Mini in Camo}

Each sling also has a front organizer that you can use to easily access items like your driver’s license, car keys, or phone.

A third feature that’s worth mentioning is the durability of these slings. The Ranger DSLR uses Genuine Cordura® for the ultimate performance while the Ranger Mini uses 900D Poly for excellent water resistance.

^{HEX Ranger DSLR Sling in Glacier Camo}

Both slings also have faux fur-lined pockets (one for a tablet and another for your phone or sunglasses in the Ranger DSLR and one for a phone or sunglasses in the Ranger Mini) that will withstand years of inserting and taking out your delicate electronics or glasses.

Fourth, HEX has integrated smart components that extend the functionality of these bags. Both feature hidden Velcro stash pockets for small items like memory cards you want to keep safe. Both bags also have YKK zippers with metal pulls that are easy to operate and will provide long-lasting performance for years to come.

^{HEX Ranger Mini in Black}

I use the Ranger DSLR to carry my DJI Mavic Pro 2, and it fits perfectly with a couple of extra batteries, the remote, and other necessities. The Ranger Mini is a similarly ideal setup for my DJI Mavic Mini. In both instances, these bags hug my body unlike any sling bag I’ve tested. It really is incredible how small their form factor is without sacrificing space.

Speaking of space, the Ranger DSLR carries up to eight liters of gear. The Ranger Mini clocks in at 2.5 liters.

In either case, you’re getting a high-quality, well-designed, functional bag for your photo and video pursuits. And with various designs to choose from (Camo, Glacier Camo, and Black), you can select the right bag with the right look for you!

Learn more about the HEX Ranger DSLR Sling and Ranger Mini Sling

Best Camera Bags of 2021: The Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon

Another camera bag that is really impressive is the Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon.

This pack was specifically designed for people that need to travel with their camera. Its ingenious design helps you organize your personal gear and your photography gear into a single bag.

As you can see below, there's a clothing side and a camera gear side that are separated by an interior panel.

This beautifully designed "ecosystem" means you can travel with a ton of gear without having to rifle through a disorganized bag to find it.

Except...it isn't a single bag. There's a removable day pack inside (called a Cube Pack), that way you can run and gun when you need to. 

This backpack can hold up to 42 liters of gear when expanded (35 liters otherwise), so there's no lack of space. And with a full clamshell opening, you can see all the gear you’ve stowed away with ease. 

The moveable interior dividers allow you to customize the space to your specific needs. There’s even a sleeve for your tablet, pockets for your camera accessories, and quick side access for easy retrieval of gear, too.

 

For your personal belongings, you can use compression cubes for your clothes, compression straps to keep everything where it should be, and pockets for smaller items to keep things organized.

This is my go-to bag. My gear stays in it on a virtually permanent basis. If you pick one up, it'll prove to be just as useful for you!

Learn more about the Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon

BEST CAMERA BAGS OF 2021: f-stop tilopa

I've been using f-stop bags for years and years, and each time I pick up a new bag from these guys, I'm always surprised at just how well-made and innovative they are.

But I shouldn't be surprised because that's the reputation f-stop has built!

My current f-stop bag is the Tilopa, a 50-liter bag that has replaced my giant 70-liter f-stop Sukha bag as my heavy haul option.

The bag measures 23.5 inches tall, 14 inches wide, and 12 inches deep and weighs in at four pounds when it's empty. I told you it's a heavy hauler!

Even when it's loaded for bear, this bag is ultra-comfortable to carry thanks to the beefy, padded shoulder straps and hip belt that have reinforcements to ensure they can accommodate a heavy load.

And unlike some big bags, the Tilopa offers a slew of load adjustment stabilizer straps so you can get the load just right for your optimum comfort. There's even an adjustable sternum strap to give the bag more stability.

Speaking of stabilization, the Tilopa comes with an internal aluminum frame that helps support the weight of your gear without adding a lot more weight to the load.

On the top is a huge lid where you can carry additional items and have easy access to them. Access to the inside of the bag is easy with a back panel that unzips. There's a zippered front panel, too.

The treated ripstop nylon exterior has TPU laminate that makes the bag weather-resistant. To give it extra weather resistance, f-stop even added Hypalon in some areas. 

But my favorite feature of f-stop bags is the internal camera unit (ICU) system.

These ICUs (like the medium one shown above) give you a removable cubby system for keeping your gear organized and protected. They come in various sizes, so you can customize the ICU to your bag and your particular kit.

It's an ingenious design that makes f-stop bags among the top bags for 2021!

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa. 

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2

No best camera bags list would be complete without an entry from Peak Design, which seems to find ways to improve on their already incredible lineup of camera bags year in and year out.

Their Everyday Backpack V2 is certainly one of the best bags of 2021, with features that make it more usable than ever.

Peak Design incorporated MagLatch hardware on the top of the bag so you can open it up and access your gear in a flash.

To expand access further, this pack has two side access panels that are secured by weatherproof UltraZips.

The shell of the bag is comprised of 100-percent recycled 400D weatherproofing so your gear stays nice and dry. There's also a handy tuck-away strap system that enables you to lash gear to the exterior of the bag to expand its carrying capacity.

As impressive as the outside is, the inside of the bag offers lots of goodies.

There's dedicated sleeves for up to a 15-inch laptop, numerous internal slip pockets for smaller items, and three configurable FlexFold dividers to help keep your gear organized.

Of course, the FlexFold dividers also help protect your gear by keeping it neatly organized and separated from one another.

The Everyday Bag V2 is available in 20-liter and 30-liter sizes so you can select the right fit for your needs. Both are a great option for urban explorations when you want a backpack with a smaller footprint than the Nomatic bag.

Either way, you'll end up with one of the best bags of 2021!

Learn more about the Everyday Backpack V2 20-Liter or 30-Liter versions.

Best Camera Bags of 2021: LowePro Photo Sport 200AW

There is no getting around it - I have a lot of camera bags. Yet, there is just one bag that I turn to over and over again for my outdoor adventures, and that’s the LowePro Photo Sport 200AW.

I’ve had this bag for over 10 years and it has gone with me on an untold number of epic adventures. It’s still going strong, so why replace something that’s worked so well all these years?

It’s perfect for adventures like biking because I can fit all my camera gear, a drone, and still have lots of room left for a jacket, snacks, and so forth.

Back in the day when I got this bag, I had a number of requirements:

• It had to be lightweight, yet durable to stand up to the rigors of outdoor adventures.
• I wanted a bag with a padded compartment for my photography gear.
• Side access panels were a must so I could quickly access my gear.

This bag ticked all the boxes back then, and it still ticks all the boxes now.

I would also add that it’s extremely important to have a bag that allows you to rotate it to your chest for quickly getting out your camera. Again, this bag does the job - I just slide one arm out of the shoulder strap, rotate the bag forward, unzip the side access pocket, and grab my gear.

Learn more about the LowePro Photo Sport 200AW.

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Peak Design 10L Everyday Sling Bag

The Peak Design Everyday Sling bag was my go-to sling bag for a long time. It really is a fantastic bag, but the HEX Ranger just outdoes it!

At any rate, I'd still highly recommend this bag because it is impeccably designed and built.

The weatherproof 400D nylon canvas shell keeps things dry while also being a highly durable fabric.

Like the HEX Ranger, this bag also has a low-profile design that keeps it from being obtrusive as you work.

You can easily access your gear via the wide-mouth opening, and if you have small accessories that need to come along for the ride, there's plenty of pockets where you can stash your stuff.

That includes an expandable outer pocket that can accommodate a flash or other small camera accessory.

There's even a side-load option for the main compartment and an external carry system so you can easily carry your tripod.

The best part of this bag, though, are the internal FlexFold dividers.

Inspired by origami, these dividers can be molded into various shapes, including walls, cubbies, and passthroughs, so you get a high level of customization of how the bag works with your gear.

And since they fasten with Velcro, you can take them all out if need be. Heck, the back even folds flat for traveling!

The Everyday Sling is super comfortable, easy to use, and well made. It's definitely deserving of consideration if you want to invest in a new sling bag.

Learn more about the Peak Design 10L Everyday Sling Bag.

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^{Photo by Olga_Gavrilova via iStock}

What makes a good camera bag?

Well, that's easy...a good camera bag is well-designed, uses durable materials, and is functional for your needs, whether you're a casual shooter or an everyday pro.

But what makes the best camera bag? That's easy too!

The best camera bags elevate things to a completely new level with unique features and innovations that you don't often find. And my list of the best camera bags of 2022 is chock-full of bags that meet that "best" threshold.

So, if you need a new camera bag, give the list below a look and see which one fits your needs the best!

Best Camera Bags of 2022: f-stop Tilopa

At the top of my list of the best camera bags of 2022 is the f-stop Tilopa.

I've had several Tilopas over the years, and each time f-stop comes out with an updated one, I think, "Man, how could this bag possibly get better?!" And then I get the bag and I'm like, "Dang, it is better!"

The latest version of the Tilopa builds on all the successes of past versions and updates it in ways that make it even more comfortable, durable, and functional.

For example, the new Tilopa has an exterior material called DuraDiamond 315D HT nylon ripstop. It's a proprietary product from f-stop that's not only lighter than previous materials but it's also stronger and has improved weather resistance (thanks to the DWR coating and a TPU layer).

As I discuss in my review video above, another upgrade is in the shoulder pads and the hip belt. The padding is made from an algae-based foam called BLOOM that's supremely comfortable. Even when the pack is fully loaded with 50 liters of gear, it's still a comfortable carrying experience with much-reduced shoulder, neck, and back fatigue.

This isn't a small bag by any means (it's 24.5” tall, 13.7” wide, 11.1” deep, and weighs about 4.2 pounds empty), but the internal aluminum frame helps shift all that weight to your hips to further reduce neck and shoulder fatigue.

You'll also find that the Tilopa has upgraded weather-resistant zippers, T6 aluminum and plastic hardware, and heavy-duty stitching with industrial-bonded thread, all of which improve the bag's long-term durability.

Inside and out, you'll find features that help you carry your gear in an organized fashion. For example, there's storage in the lid, various small pockets, and the main interior space. There's also 22 Gatekeeper attachments and loops on the outside of the bag for carrying ice axes, skis, and other adventure gear.

Of course, the new-and-improved f-stop Tilopa is compatible with f-stop's fantastic camera bag inserts that further your ability to carry a lot of gear. This bag works best with the Pro-Large or Pro-XL inserts, but you can mix and match small, medium, large, and XL inserts as needed.

From an innovation standpoint, a build quality standpoint, and a durability standpoint, no bag impressed me more in 2022 than the f-stop Tilopa. Add in a 20-year warranty, and you have the makings of a bag that takes the top spot on my list of the best camera bags of 2022!

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa

Best Camera Bags of 2022: Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 25L

Next up on my list of the best camera bags of 2022 is the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack.

I have the 25-liter version, though there's a 35-liter version if you need more space. In either case, you get a beautifully designed and made camera bag that offers loads of functionality and organization in a comfortable-to-carry bag.

At about three pounds empty and 7.5" D x 13" W x 19" H, this is a small pack. But, because Nomatic and Peter McKinnon took the time to design this back properly, you can fit all sorts of gear inside.

For example, this bag has a sleeve that fits a 16-inch laptop, plus all sorts of mesh pockets for keeping small items like batteries organized and out of the way. The adjustable ladder system offers even better use of space that allows you to use the bag for photography-specific outings, everyday use, or both.

You can add various cubes to the bag, too, like two small cubes or one large one, depending on your specific needs. These cubes give you complete control over how the interior space of the bag is used, making it the height of functionality.

Outside, the bag features easy access on top and the back (via a full-length panel, no less). There are two magnetic tripod pockets (which are perfect for water bottles, too) as well as external carry straps in case you have additional items you need to carry.

Even if you're loaded up with gear, this bag is extremely comfortable to carry. There's an EVA molded back panel, an adjustable sternum strap, and well-padded shoulder straps to keep fatigue at bay.

The exterior of the backpack is made of water-resistant materials and has beefy hardware that stands up to the elements. I've used this bag in many different settings and environments, from the beach to the desert to snow-covered mountain forests, and it's been a rockstar in every situation.

Heck, with the luggage handle passthrough on the back, you can even use this bag for your airport travels!

The point is that Nomatic and Peter McKinnon have teamed up to develop a bag that ticks all the boxes of utilitarianism, durability, and build quality. If a smaller bag is all you need, make this one of your top choices!

Learn more about the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 25L

Best Camera Bags of 2022: Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

Okay, okay...

I know this isn't a bag per se, but despite being a hard case, this sucker had to be on my list of the best camera bags of 2022. It is simply an impressive rig for long-haul photography needs!

At 30 liters, this is a well-sized case for folks like me with a decent-sized kit for photography and videography. You can easily store multiple cameras, lenses, and other accessories, plus have room left over for a small tripod if need be.

Yet, despite having all that room, this case is pretty small at about 22" x 9" x 14". With those dimensions, you can use this as a carry-on bag! The big and quiet wheels and the telescoping handle are other features that make this the ideal case for getting your gear safely through the airport.

You can rest assured that your gear will safely get from one location to the next thanks to Manfrotto's well-padded interior. Not only is there foam on the inside of the lid, but there's also four layers of pre-cubed foam that you can move around the interior compartment to customize the storage space to your gear. On top of that, the interior compartment has CPS dividers with shock-absorbing gel. Nice!

Manfrotto didn't skimp on the outside of the case, either...

This case has big, heavy-duty latches that are easy to operate. The latches also feature an integrated level that must be engaged to open the case - a handy feature to prevent the case from accidentally opening.

The case also has several padlock points, so you can lock it as you travel to ensure no one helps themselves to your gear.

On top of that, Manfrotto made the case with impact-resistant materials while also ensuring that the interior is dust-resistant and moisture-resistant. In fact, the case is air-tight, too!

I could go on and on about this case, but instead, I'll point you to my video above to get a complete explanation of this case and how I use it. As you'll see, it's been a great addition to my collection of bags and cases!

Learn more about the Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

Best Camera Bags of 2022: f-stop Ajna

Leading the second group of bags (think of these next three bags as the first runners-up) is another f-stop bag - the Ajna.

With a capacity of 37 liters and dimensions that measure about 24" x 13" x 10", the Ajna is a much smaller bag than the Tilopa. But, don't let its smaller size fool you - the Ajna is a supremely functional bag for short and extended photography outings.

The bag has lots of storage in the lid and the main compartment. There's also exterior pockets for items you need to access easily. Speaking of easy access, the back panel offers a full view of what's inside the main compartment.

Like the Tilopa, the Ajna has BLOOM foam shoulder straps (and hip belt), a DuraDiamond exterior, and an aluminum frame that helps shift the weight of the pack to your hips. Also like the Tilopa, the Ajna has heavy-duty water-resistant zippers.

The mesh side pockets are ideal for water bottles or other frequently-needed items, and inside, you can use the camera inserts I discussed earlier to really customize the space inside the pack to fit your specific needs.

Check out my 12-month review of this pack in the video above to get all the details!

Learn more about the f-stop Ajna

Best Camera Bags of 2022: Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY

The second bag in my "first runner-up" category is the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48, which I have in gray.

This bag is 11.4" × 8.7" × 19.3" and weights about 3.2 pounds empty, which makes it a great option for short outings with a well-stocked camera kit.

The exterior is waterproof to protect your gear, and in case things get really wet and wild, there's an integrated rain cover. No matter the weather, you'll have a comfortable carrying experience thanks to Vanguard's ergonomic harness system.

On the front is a spot to carry your tripod, while the interior compartment has lots of pockets and easy access through the top or the rear of the bag. Speaking of the interior, there's 10.2" × 6.3" × 18.9" space to accommodate a camera, a couple of lenses, and accessories, plus a 16-inch laptop.

This bag even has a built-in USB-A port so you can charge up your devices as you travel. The pack doesn't come with a power bank, but it's an easy enough accessory to find and add.

Of course, the bag also has Vanguard-quality craftsmanship, with nice stitching that makes the bag a durable and reliable option for your photography adventures.

This is a fantastic all-around bag that any photographer would enjoy having in their collection!

Learn more about the Vanguard VEO Adaptor R48GY

Best Camera Bags of 2022: Holdfast Roamographer

If a backpack or hard case isn't what you need (or your style), you might consider something completely different...

The Holdfast Roamographer is a gorgeous, luxurious American Bison leather camera bag that offers incredible functionality for your photo shoots while looking like something that belongs on a grand tour of the Mediterranean coast. In terms of beauty, it's hard to beat this bag!

But the Roamographer isn't just a pretty face...

Inside is a spacious interior that houses a removable camera insert. The insert is highly padded and snuggles your camera, lenses, and other gear to ensure they arrive at your destination safely.

Outside is the hand-crafted leather exterior that offers vintage beauty and weather resistance. The carrier straps are ideal for easily carrying your tripod, while the shearling-lined shoulder strap makes for a comfortable and stylish carrying experience.

The strap even has the ability to carry a small camera, that way you can point and shoot when the moment arises.

The Roamographer comes in two sizes - small and regular. The small bag is ideal for a mirrorless system, while the regular bag can accommodate a mirrorless system with additional accessories or a DSLR setup. I have the regular-sized bag, and it's been a fantastic option for fancier events and for weekend travels, too.

Either way, your gear will live in the lap of luxury in a handmade bag from the heart of the USA in Oklahoma.

Learn more about the Holdfast Roamographer

Best Camera Bags of 2022: f-stop DuraDiamond Drone Case

The last four entries on this list of the best camera bags of 2022 are what I consider to be the "second runners-up" - all excellent options with very specific uses.

The f-stop DuraDiamond Drone Case might not be a bag, but it's nonetheless an important option in today's day and age. Many photographers have drones, and as such, need a reliable, durable way to protect the delicate components of their drones. This case is ideal for that.

You can get a small or large case, depending on your needs. Either way, the case protects foldable-wind drones with a padded interior with adjustable dividers to further protect items inside.

What's more, you get multiple pockets to organize small items like memory cards and batteries. These pockets have magnetic closures that make opening and closing them a simple and easy task - just one way that f-stop makes this case so useful and innovative!

Learn more about the f-stop Small Drone Case and the f-stop Large Drone Case

Best Camera Bags of 2022: Nomatic McKinnon Sling 8L

If you need a small bag for things like street photography, I can't think of a better option than the Nomatic McKinnon Sling 8L.

With just the right amount of space for your mirrorless or DSLR system, this bag is perfect for quick outings in which a small kit is all you need.

Inside, you'll find an easy-to-access main compartment, an elastic zip mesh pocket, and dedicated pockets for small items like batteries and memory cards.

On the outside, you'll find the same water-resistant, durable material used on the 25L McKinnon camera bag I described earlier.

There's also a quick-latch system that allows you to easily open and close the bag with one hand, an EVA foam back panel that improves comfort and airflow, and a pivoting, padded shoulder strap for added comfort.

So, despite its small size, Nomatic has done its thing and crafted a highly functional bag that makes taking photos all the easier. And, as an added bonus, it fits inside Nomatic's 35L Camera Bag for a two-in-one option!

Learn more about the Nomatic McKinnon Camera Sling 8L

Best Camera Bags of 2022: Holdfast Leather Explorer Lens Quiver

Another camera bag alternative that I had to include on my list of the best camera bags of 2022 is the Explorer Lens Quiver from Holdfast.

This open-top bag is ideal for photographers that need to make quick lens changes, like wedding photographers. It's worn just like a messenger bag, so your lenses are right there within easy reach at your side. The adjustable shoulder strap offers a comfortable carrying experience while also giving you a spot to hang your keys or glasses for easy access.

The bag is made of 18-ounce twill canvas and leathers that can be matched to your existing MoneyMaker harness. Not only does this bag look like a million bucks, but it also has nine pockets for your lenses, flash, lens hoods, and other accessories.

Plus, you can use it with the full MoneyMaker dual-camera harness or the MoneyMaker Solo!

Learn more about the Holdfast Leather Explorer Lens Quiver

Best Camera Bags of 2022: LowePro Photo Sport 200AW

There is no getting around it - I have a lot of camera bags. Yet, there is just one bag that I turn to over and over again for my outdoor adventures, and that’s the LowePro Photo Sport 200AW.

I’ve had this bag for over 10 years, and it has gone with me on an untold number of epic adventures. It’s still going strong, so why replace something that’s worked so well all these years?

It’s perfect for adventures like biking because I can fit all my camera gear, a drone, and still have lots of room left for a jacket, snacks, and so forth.

Back in the day when I got this bag, I had a number of requirements:

• It had to be lightweight yet durable to stand up to the rigors of outdoor adventures.
• I wanted a bag with a padded compartment for my photography gear.
• Side access panels were a must, so I could quickly access my gear.

This bag ticked all the boxes back then, and it still ticks all the boxes now.

I would also add that it’s extremely important to have a bag that allows you to rotate it to your chest to quickly get out your camera. Again, this bag does the job - I just slide one arm out of the shoulder strap, rotate the bag forward, unzip the side access pocket, and grab my gear.

Learn more about the LowePro Photo Sport 200AW

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^{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 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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^{Photo by AsiaVision via iStock}

With a $500 budget, there are tons of options for getting your loved one an ideal photography gift.

A used camera perhaps? Or maybe an awesome camera bag? Maybe a beautiful canvas print or GoPro?

The list below includes all these options - and many more - to consider for your 2022 holiday gift-giving!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: 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 $500: f-stop Tilopa 50L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

I'll tell you right now that this bag isn't just one of my favorite items on this list. It's one of my favorite pieces of photography gear of all time. I mean, it's on my 2021 list of the best camera bags for a reason. And not to spoil the party, but it'll be on my 2022 list of the best camera bags as well.

Let's start on the outside of the bag...

This version of the Tilopa, which was released last year, is constructed of DuraDiamond 315D HT nylon ripstop (an f-stop proprietary product) to give it supreme durability. Add in C0 DWR coating and a TPU layer that gives the fabric excellent waterproofing and added strength as well.

There's heavy-duty stitching with industrial-bonded thread, a 500mm Polyurethane coating, and heavy-gauge weatherproof zippers. The 20-year warranty speaks to the durability and impeccable construction of the bag.

You can access the bag from every side, making quick work of grabbing your camera for a shot. There's also external side pockets for keeping small items. All told, this bag offers 50 liters of storage space, so, really, you can take just about all the photography gear you have if need be! You can carry stuff on the outside of the bag, too, thanks to a variety of mounting options:

• 22 Gatekeeper attachment points (up from 10 on the previous version)
• 4 detachable, quick-release, lockable Gatekeeper straps
• Hypalon ski strap loops
• Ice axe loops
• Bungee loops (that can be released with a single hand)
• Angled MOLLE webbing on the hip belt

Even if the pack is fully loaded, the carrying experience is so comfortable. The internal metal frame helps stabilize the load and shift the weight of the bag to your hips. Of course, the BLOOM EVA padded hip belt (which is contoured for comfort) helps to further ease the pressure of carrying a heavy load.

The shoulder straps are also made of contoured BLOOM EVA, and are hands-down the most comfortable shoulder straps I've ever used.

Inside, the bag is lined with 700 Nylon Ripstop fabric. The main compartment holds 39 liters of gear while the various smaller pockets on the top, bottom, and sides round out the remaining 11 liters of storage space. Get a complete tour of this bag in the video below:

Of course, the star of the interior of this bag is the excellent line of ICUs from f-stop. The Tilopa accommodates small, medium, and large ICUs to give you a complete interior organization system for your gear. You can even mix and match smaller ICUs to create a truly bespoke storage space.

And since the ICUs are removable, you can adjust how you use them from one trip to the next. Honestly, this bag would be worth the price of admission even if it wasn't compatible with ICUs. Their availability is simply icing on the cake!

I've had several Tilopa bags over the years, and each time I didn't think f-stop could improve it. Yet, each time, f-stop proves me wrong!

Everything about this bag is done so, so well, from the construction to the materials to the way it fits your body. I absolutely love this bag, and the photographer on your holiday shopping list is sure to love it as well.

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa 50L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Backpack

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, 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 over a year 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: Pre-Owned Sony a6000

The Sony a6000 is an oldie, but it's definitely a goodie.

Released in 2014, the a6000 quickly became one of the most popular mirrorless cameras ever made. In fact, you can still buy a brand-new a6000 - they're still that popular!

But with a budget of $500, a new a6000 is out of reach. But a quality pre-owned a6000 is well within your budget if you shop at MPB.

The a6000 has a 24.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that's paired with a BIONZ X image processor. This combination results in a superb stills and video camera for beginner and enthusiast photographers and videographers.

Though the camera lacks modern amenities like a touchscreen LCD, in-body image stabilization, and 4K video, it has a host of other features that make it a very useful camera, even so long after its release. For example, the a6000 comes with:

• ISO range: 100-25,600 (expandable to 51,200)
• 11 fps burst shooting
• 179 phase-detection autofocus points and 25 contrast-detection autofocus points
• 1080 video at up to 60p

All of this is wrapped in a tiny body that weighs just 12 ounces without a lens or battery.

The a6000 uses Sony E-mount lenses, so there is a wealth of native Sony glass available as well as a host of third-party E-mount lenses:

• Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
• Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary - Sony E Fit
• Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
• Sigma 35 mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary - Sony E Fit
• Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS

With such a wide selection of glass, this camera can be used for all sorts of pursuits, from portraiture to sports photography to landscapes. With a battery life of 360 shots, you can shoot for a good, long while, too!

If you want to give someone a highly capable, yet inexpensive camera, this is it! Buy with confidence at MPB, which offers a six-month warranty and a seven-day return window. Each a6000 has been thoroughly graded, so you know exactly what to expect when the camera arrives at your door.

Learn more about the Sony a6000

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Coravin Timeless Six+

Over the years, I've gotten a lot of requests to add lifestyle items to these gift guides. I'm finally obliging!

I'm not a huge wine drinker, but I'll have a glass now and then while I'm editing photos or with dinner after a long day of work. Occasionally, I'll share wine with clients, too.

When you don't drink wine all that often, the problem is that you hesitate to open bottles for fear that they'll go bad. My old cork system only extended the life of the bottle for a few days after it was opened, so I wasted tons of wine. Not anymore!

The Coravin Timeless Six+ system is the precise holiday gift for folks like me that enjoy wine but need to preserve it for long periods of time.

When wine is bottled, argon gas is inserted to the bottle to preserve the wine. The problem with many cork systems is that the argon gas escapes, leading to ruined wine.

But the Coravin system has an argon capsule that you pop in and a needle that inserts directly into the cork. Then, you hit a button and the bottle becomes pressurized as new argon gas is inserted into the bottle. As the argon gas is inserted, wine comes out, allowing you to pour the perfect glass without losing the argon inside the bottle. Then simply remove the needle and the cork seals back up without losing pressure.

It's an ingenious system, and like I said, it allows me to preserve wine for weeks or even years now. Not only that, I can start buying better wine because I won't fear that it'll go to waste. It's a win-win!

Learn more about the Coravin Timeless Six+

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Cutco 6-Piece Kitchen Tool Set With Holder

I know a kitchen set might not immediately come to mind as something to give a photographer, but hear me out...

Just like photographers want to have the appropriate gear for taking photos, you need the appropriate gear for cooking up meals. A great kitchen set like this one is just what the doctor ordered!

I love photography and I love cooking, so having a kitchen set like this helps me accomplish my cooking goals for dinner after a long day working in the photography space.

As you’ve probably guessed, this set exudes the high quality of Cutco products.

There are six pieces in the set, including:

• A slotted turner
• A basting spoon
• A slotted spoon
• A ladle
• A mix-stir
• A potato masher

The set also includes a gorgeous oak holder that’s available in a cherry or honey finish.

Each accessory in this set has a stainless steel head and a highly-engineered thermo-resin handle that’s available in a classic or pearl finish.

Given the materials used and the Cutco commitment to quality, you can bet that these tools will last for years and years, whether they’re used at home in the kitchen or out in the wilds while you’re camping.

Clearly, this set of tools will help you create all sorts of meals, from mashed potatoes to soups and stews to pancakes and everything in between. And having well-made kitchen tools will make the process of whipping up those meals so much more enjoyable! You can focus more on what you’re making and less on finding the right accessory to make it.

Even if the person on your holiday shopping list isn’t much of a chef, they can still get a lot of use out of this six-piece set. It can be used for simple meals at home or meal prep before a photography trip.

If you want to give a gift that offers decades of reliable service, then Cutco has what you need!

Learn more about the Cutco 6-Piece Kitchen Tool Set with Holder

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:  Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S Carbon Fiber Tripod

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A good, solid tripod is a must-have for photographers and videographers. But not all tripods are made alike.

Certainly, there’s a difference in design, functionality, and build quality. There’s also significant differences in the specs and features of available tripods.

For my money, one of the best representations of these criteria is the Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S Carbon Fiber Tripod.

For starters, this is an all-in-one tripod kit, so you can give a gift with everything your loved one needs to jumpstart their photography or videography projects.

The tripod has a Multi-Angle Central Column that moves from 0 degrees to 180 degrees in various vertical and horizontal positions. This enables photographers and videographers to get the precise angle of view to fulfill their creative vision.

Also included with this tripod are legs with three adjustable angles of 23 degrees, 50 degrees, and 80 degrees for quick setup. Vanguard has equipped the tripod with non-slip all-weather grips on two legs for easier maneuvering in less-than-ideal weather. The Vanguard BH-160S dual-axis ball head is part of the kit, too.

Of course, being a Vanguard tripod means this bad boy has plenty of other features.

For example, one leg converts to a monopod for lean-and-mean shooting situations. There’s spiked feet on each leg, too, to give the tripod a stable base on uneven terrain. Vanguard’s superb quick-twist leg locks are yet another feature that makes this tripod such a treat to use out in the field.

In other words, this isn’t just any old tripod…

Vanguard’s long-standing reputation for designing and building quality gear is on full display with the VEO3+. You get a rock-solid carbon fiber tripod, tons of accessories, and loads of features in one killer unit.

And with a price that’s well below the $500 mark, it’s one of the most affordable options on this list!

Learn more about the Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S Carbon Fiber Tripod

Gifts for Photographers under $500: Acratech GP-SS Ball Head

The Acratech GP has been my primary ball head for over a decade. It's proven its longevity with a rugged design that's tough enough to stand up to the rigors of daily use.

The GP-SS is built like a tank, but doesn't behave like one. By that, I mean that even though it can withstand a bomb blast (figuratively speaking, of course!) it offers super fine and delicate control that gives you the smooth, precise adjustments you demand.

Back in the day when I used big, heavy gear like my Nikon D850, an L-bracket, and a 70-200mm lens, I marveled at the Acratech GP's ability to maintain its precise movements. Of course, now that I've got a much lighter kit in the Canon EOS R5 and R6, the GP-SS ball head is more than enough to handle the load.

Basic Specs:

• Compatible with many quick-release plates
• 25-pound load capacity
• Quick-release lever
• Fits all standard tripods

So, this is a fine choice for a gift for your loved one who needs a strong, stable, and functional base for their imaging and video work!

Learn more about the Acratech GP-SS ball head

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Pre-Owned Canon EOS M50

As noted earlier, 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 24.1-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 100-25,600 that's expandable to 51,200 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 autofocus 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! And with a pre-owned price tag of less than $500, it won't break the bank, either!

Remember, buying pre-owned gear at MPB is a smooth process backed by a generous warranty and return policy. You can even trade in your old gear to offset the cost of giving an M50 as a gift!

Learn more about the Canon EOS M50

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: GoPro Hero 11 Black

The GoPro Hero 11 Black retains a lot of features of the Hero 10 Black, but offers some significant improvements that make it a perfect holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list.

The Hero 11 Black shares the same form factor as the Hero 10 (and Hero 9), so if your loved one has one of these cameras and has invested in accessories for it, those accessories will still work with the Hero 11 Black.

However, despite the exterior being the same, lots has changed under the hood...

The biggest change is the sensor, which is now at 27 megapixels. The Hero 11 Black can record 10-bit color video as well.

Speaking of video capabilities, video can be captured at 5.3k at up to 60fps. Hypersmooth 5.0 helps stabilize video while the new ultra-wide HyperView offers a bigger 16:9 field of view for shooting videos. You can also shoot vertical videos in 8:7 format.

Other software features include 360-degree horizon lock, Night Effect for nighttime time lapses, and an improved TimeWarp time lapse feature, which now records video at up to 5.3K. You can keep tabs on what you're recording by using the front or rear LCD screens.

Another upgrade in the Hero 11 Black is the new Enduro battery.

According to GoPro, the new battery can extend recording times by up to 38 percent. Add a couple of these batteries to the mix, and you can give your loved one the gift of hours and hours of recording with their new GoPro!

And, as always, the Hero 11 black is ruggedly built to withstand the rigors of shooting in all sorts of environments, even underwater up to 33 feet.

Learn more about the GoPro Hero 11 Black

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: DJI Mini SE

Giving the gift of a drone might seem impossible for under $500, but the DJI Mini SE is way under that threshold at less than $300.00.

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.

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: Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

Nomatic has earned its reputation for crafting beautiful, functional, and durable photography gear. And Peter McKinnon is one of the biggest names in photography. It's a match made in heaven!

The Peter McKinnon Nomatic Camera Pack is a fantastic bag that shows that this partnership is all about the user experience.

As I explain in the video above, this bag looks fantastic, versatile, and feature-rich. Get a load of some of its features:

• Holds 35 liters of gear (and expands to 42 liters)
• Water-resistant
• External straps (so you can carry items like your tripod)
• Removable interior dividers (so you can customize 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: Insta360 Link

The Insta360 Link is a webcam, but it's so much more than that. Actually, I like to describe it as what you'd get if a webcam and an action camera had a baby!

The camera comes with a 1/2-inch sensor - which is fantastic for a webcam. But it also comes with a full-on three-axis gimbal for getting ultra-smooth video when you hold the camera in your hand. Speaking of video, it records in 4K at 30p or HD at 60p. Not bad!

When using the camera, its AI-powered motion tracking system ensures you're centered in the frame, which is obviously a handy feature when you're using it as a webcam. Other webcam-related features include "Whiteboard Mode," which crops everything out of the frame except the whiteboard you're using, and "DeskView Mode," which gives viewers a shot of your workspace.

The camera even tilts downward when not in use for added privacy.

Add to the list a ton of other features like gesture control, phase-detection autofocus, a USB-C connection, and HDR mode to help prevent blown-out backgrounds.

That's a lot of features that any photographer would love in a holiday gift!

Learn more about the Insta360 Link

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^{Photo by freemixer via iStock}

Best Camera Bag

I'm fortunate to own many different camera bags. I test many, many more each year.

And this year, I think I've had more awesome camera bags in my hands than any year before.

On top of that, the bags that make my best camera bags of 2021 list are more varied in their design than any year before, too.

From slings to backpacks, leather camera bags to duffels, this list has something for everyone.

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Hazard 4® Pillbox™

The Hazard 4® Pillbox™ Modular Shell pack certainly falls into the impressive category…

To first address the different aesthetic; it’s due to Hazard 4’s legacy users. From special forces recon teams to expedition reporters, these are first designed to endure the world’s harshest jobs and environments. Cameras, accessories and survival gear are protected while patented modularity allows broad mission customization. Thoughtful sizing, organization, ergonomics, and unique functions, with 1000 D Cordura® fabric, YKK zips, and patented hardware result in the tough, futuristic design that now many enthusiasts also choose.

From a comfort standpoint, the molded back-pad with removable belt is one of the bag’s best features. It’s abrasion resistant without chafing, aerated to ventilate sweat, and conforms to your spine for daylong comfort while padding a <16” MacBook Pro in it’s zip-compartment, that can hang hydration bladders too while the laptop moves to the shell’s other laptop holder!

In terms of ruggedness, it doesn’t get much better than the lightweight, yet durable molded foam shell and internal 360° moveable gear padding. The shell’s six mounting detents host their patented Hardpoint® system which can be used to attach optional loops, panels, rails, bungees, lights, and other hardware to hold tripods, holsters, helmets, etc. And with military modular webbing (molle) and velcro panels throughout, the pack allows expansion of its functionality by adding i.d. patches and pouches/holsters as needed.

This bag is also supremely versatile. Carry a laptop, tablet, camera system, and drone in the bottom, with clothes, food and first aid in the shell. Even weapons are retained for those who serve. A large admin organizer keeps your pens, SD cards, and tools neatly organized.

The professional mil-spec looks make this an eye-catching and unique bag with all the functionality you need to get the hardest field job done in style; like a James Cameron future loadout but in 2021! In three colors from urban to desert, if you want a bag to accommodate lots of gear with carry comfort and patented modularity/security features while looking like a tough, tech trend-setter, this is the one for you.

Learn more about the Hazard4 Pillbox

Best Camera Bags of 2021: The Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon

Another camera bag that really, really impressed me in 2021 is the Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon.

This pack was specifically designed for people that need to travel with their camera. It's ingenious design helps you organize your personal gear and your photography gear into a single bag.

As you can see below, there's a clothing side and a camera gear side that are separated by an interior panel.

This beautifully designed "ecosystem" means you can travel with a ton of gear without having to rifle through a disorganized bag to find it.

Except...it isn't a single bag. There's a removable day pack inside (called a Cube Pack), that way you can run and gun when you need to. 

This backpack can hold up to 42 liters of gear when expanded (35 liters otherwise), so there's no lack of space. And with a full clamshell opening, you can see all the gear you’ve stowed away with ease. 

The moveable interior dividers allow you to customize the space to your specific needs. There’s even a sleeve for your tablet, pockets for your camera accessories, and quick side access for easy retrieval of gear, too.

 

For your personal belongings, you can use compression cubes for your clothes, compression straps to keep everything where it should be, and pockets for smaller items to keep things organized.

The Kickstarter goal for this pack was $100,000. It raised nearly $2.3 million. If that doesn't speak to the innovative features and quality of this bag, I don't know what does!

Learn more about the Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Wandrd HEXAD Access Duffle

This bag by Wandrd is the only duffel-type bag on this list.

And while I'm not usually a duffel bag kind of guy, Wandrd certainly makes the duffel something to consider.

After all, it's beautifully designed, extremely comfortable to carry, and incredibly functional, too.

It’s tough to beat a great camera bag as a gift for the photographer on your list.

One of the best features is the enormous clamshell opening on the top of the bag. With an unobstructed view, you can see exactly what gear is where, that way you can grab what you need and get the shots you want.

The three organizational compartments help you keep things tidy, which is supremely important when the bag has a carrying capacity of 45 liters of gear!

Fortunately, despite its massive interior space, this bag is lightweight at 4.9 pounds and has a relatively small form factor at 9"H X 14"W X 22"L.

On the outside of the bag, you'll appreciate the weather-resistant materials, the high-quality zippers, the side camera access, and the removable backpack straps and camera protection.

The exterior also features waterproof Tarpaulin and 1680D Ballistic Nylon with a WR army coating.

In other words, this bag has tons of capacity, huge functionality, and durability for the long-haul.

Learn more about the Wandrd HEXAD Access Duffle

Best Camera Bags of 2021: f-stop Sukha

One of the first bags to impress me in 2021 was this bad boy, the f-stop Sukha.

This bag holds an astonishing 70 liters of gear, so needless to say this would be an ideal pack for a very long travel photography outing.

The Sukha is waterproof, so even if you encounter some inclement weather, you can rest assured all your gear and other belongings will stay dry.

And even though this is a monstrous bag, you can still easily find what you need.

That's because f-stop utilizes Internal Camera Units (ICUs) that enable easy organization of a lot of gear.

As you can see above, even though I have the bag full, it's still perfectly tidy and easy to see what's inside.

In addition to that, this pack has a huge amount of padding that keeps your gear safe.

I also appreciate the fact that this bag has expandable zipper pockets on the side in case I need a little more room for gear.

On the exterior of the bag are reinforced carry straps that let you add even more gear - like your tripod - to the bag.

And even when fully loaded, this bag is surprisingly comfortable to carry. The internal aluminum frame makes the pack nice and rigid while the EVA-padded Jersey laminate shoulder straps and hip belt help soften the load you're carrying.

The f-stop Sukha is just a well-designed and rugged bag that holds an incredible amount of gear.

Learn more about the f-stop Sukha

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2

No best camera bags list would be complete without an entry from Peak Design, which seems to find ways to improve on their already incredible lineup of camera bags year in and year out.

Their Everyday Backpack V2 is certainly one of the best bags I've gotten my hands on this year, with new and improved features that make it more usable than ever.

Peak Design incorporated MagLatch hardware on the top of the bag so you can open it up and access your gear in a flash.

To expand access further, this pack has two side access panels that are secured by weatherproof UltraZips.

The shell of the bag is comprised of 100-percent recycled 400D weatherproofing so your gear stays nice and dry. There's also a handy tuck-away strap system that enables you to lash gear to the exterior of the bag to expand its carrying capacity.

As impressive as the outside is, the inside of the bag offers lots of goodies.

There's dedicated sleeves for up to a 15-inch laptop, numerous internal slip pockets for smaller items, and three configurable FlexFold dividers to help keep your gear organized.

Of course, the FlexFold dividers also help protect your gear by keeping it neatly organized and separated from one another.

The Everyday Bag V2 is available in 20 liter and 30 liter sizes so you can select the right fit for your needs.

Either way, you'll end up with one of the best bags of 2021!

Learn more about the Everyday Backpack V2 20 Liter or 30 Liter versions

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Hazard 4^® Freelance™ Sling-Pack

Rarely do you encounter camera bags described as “tactical,” but in this case, the rank definitely fits the Hazard 4^® Freelance™ Photo Sling-Pack.

Hazard 4^® designs exceed military specs, so these are trusted by demanding users in the harshest environments - special forces to expedition reporters. Thoughtful sizes, organization, and ergonomics, with 1000 D Cordura^® fabric, YKK zips, and patented hardware protect cameras, accessories and survival gear in a futuristic aesthetic that deflects harsh use.

You can cleverly rotate Freelance™ from back to chest for quick gear access without taking it off. Sized for most mirrorless systems with movable padded dividers to organize lenses and accessories, it’s also made in a Drone Edition with special dividers and “Drone Pilot” patch on its velcro I.D. panel.

Three exterior pockets fit extra gear. A sweat managing thermo-molded zip back panel cradles 10.5” iPads^®. An admin panel organizes pens and SD cards, among other small items. A molded shell fits two Mavic^® Pro batteries and has a patented Hard Point^® bus for attaching Hazard 4^® systems loops and tie-downs or GoPros^® via a ¼-20 screw.

Modular webbing (molle) throughout allows exterior gear expansion. A patented roto-lock buckle prevents drops. Add grab-handles, tripod/compression straps, and more for the makings of one killer camera bag for active photographers!

Learn more about the Hazard 4® Freelance

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Peak Design Travel Backpack

What I like most about the Peak Design Travel Line Backpack 45L is that it has a modular design that allows you to customize the bag to fit your specific needs.

There's a zippered panel that divides the bag into two compartments - one for camera gear and one for personal items.

But if you're in need of tons of gear (or tons of personal items), you can unzip the divider and have one large space for storage.

Don't think that having all that storage space means your stuff will be all jumbled up...

Peak Design has a wide range of optional packing tools that extend the functionality of this bag.

You can get packing cubes for your clothes, a was cube for toiletry items, shoe cubes to keep the dirty bottoms of your shoes contained, and, of course, cubes for your camera gear as well.

Furthermore, there's four mesh zippered pockets on the front of the bag and a host of internal pockets to further your organizational abilities.

Another neat feature is that this bag has rigid sidewalls. Not only does that aid in protecting your gear but it also helps the bag retain its shape, even if it's empty.

When it's full of gear (or when you need to load up), you can do so from the access panel on the back of the bag, the top, or from the side access panels.

I love the weatherproof construction (even the zippers are weatherproof), the abundance of exterior handles for easy grabbing, and the ability to expand from 30 liters to 45 liters. With all that, you have the makings of one of the best camera bags of 2021!

Learn more about the Peak Design Travel Line Backpack

Best Camera Bags of 2021: HEX Ranger DSLR Sling Bag

I don't often use sling bags, but I can tell you that this bad boy has made me a sling bag fan.

One look at the specs on this thing, and you'll understand why I think so highly of it...

What strikes you immediately is the small form factor of the bag.

It weighs only 1.3 pounds and is 14.5"L x 7.25"W x 4.75"H. Though it's rated at 8 liters, I could fit everything from my 10L Peak Design bag into the HEX bag, no problem. There is no wasted space in this thing, so the manner in which it was designed gives you the utmost efficiency of space.

Additionally, this bag hugs your body, so it's a carrying experience unlike any other I've ever had with a sling bag - it stays in place and doesn't bounce around or knock into things as some lesser sling bags tend to do.

The outside of the bag features adjustable load straps and adjustable bottom carry straps, so I can easily add my Peak Design tripod to the bottom of the bag when need be.

There's a front access organizer for small things like batteries or memory cards and a faux fur lined pocket on the front where you can keep your phone. There are multiple stash pockets too.

Inside, one of the best features is the collapsible interior dividers.

The dividers can be folded up or even removed so you can truly customize the bag to suit your needs.

My setup includes a Nikon Z7 with a lens attached, an additional lens, and filters, and there's plenty of room for all of it inside the bag.

The HEX Ranger is just a great looking bag that's well-thought-out and beautifully crafted. If you're in the market for a new sling bag, give this one strong consideration!

Learn more about the HEX Ranger DSLR Sling Bag

Best Camera Bags of 2021: Holdfast Roamographer

One of the best leather bags on the market today is without a doubt the Holdfast Roamographer.

There's a lot of reasons for that, too.

First of all, the Roamographer truly does fit the bill for form and for function.

This bag is stunning to look at, with its handcrafted details and beautiful American Bison leather jumping out at you.

Even the buckles, straps, handles, and shoulder strap show impeccable design and attention to detail.

Speaking of the straps, you can carry a tripod by lashing them to the bag via the straps, and carrying the bag is a joy considering the strap has a shearling-lined shoulder pad to keep your neck and shoulder as comfortable as possible.

You can even carry a small camera on the Roamographer's shoulder strap so that you don't miss any split-second shots.

But since I like a utilitarian bag, what impresses me the most about the Roamographer is that it isn't just a pretty face.

Inside, it surprises you with a removable camera insert that's soft and thickly padded to provide your gear the protection it needs. It keeps all your gear nicely organized as well with various sleeves, pockets, and dividers.

And since the insert is removable, you can use the bag as a weekender full of clothes and personal items when you don't need it to carry your camera gear.

With two large exterior pockets and two interior sleeve pockets, the Roamographer has no lack of storage space. There's even a large and small version for DSLR and mirrorless gear, respectively.

You can carry the Roamographer using Holdfast's excellent Moneymaker Camera Strap for the ultimate in utilitarian function (while looking good too!).

Learn more about the Holdfast Roamographer Bag

Best Camera Bags of 2021: f-stop Dalston Bag

If you're in need of a smaller bag that doesn't skimp on high-quality materials and versatility, then look no further than the f-stop Dalston. 

This bag was designed with meeting the demands of the urban jungle in mind.

As a capable everyday bag, it not only offers excellent storage space but also has a sleek silhouette that makes it less bulky, which is ideal for photographing in tight spaces.

The bag is easy to access, too, with side-access pockets for quick grab and go.

But don’t think that the Dalston is just for quick daytime adventures…

At nearly 19 inches tall and 11.4 inches wide, this bag can hold up to 21 liters of gear. That’s plenty of space for extended photoshoots in which a photographer needs lots of space packed into a sleek bag.

Add in weather-sealed zippers, a removable internal organizer for keeping your gear tidy, a Jersey laminate EVA-padded back panel, and Thermoformed EVA shoulder straps for comfort, and you have the makings of a spectacular bag for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about the f-stop Dalston

 

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^{Photo by Steven-Baranek via iStock}

Last week, we published the first in a series of five Nevada photography and travel guides.

Where that one featured photography hot spots in the Vegas area, this one focuses on much more natural terrain - Lake Tahoe.

The Tahoe area of Nevada is unparalleled in its beauty, with opportunities for photographing the lake itself, as well as its beaches, interesting rock formations, and gorgeous sunsets, just to name a few.

Below, we've outlined our top three picks for photography spots in Tahoe, and have also provided details about where to stay, where to eat, points of interest, and so forth.

What to Photograph in Tahoe - Bonsai Rock

^{Photo by Spencer Jones via iStock}

Bonsai RockBonsai Rock is a giant boulder just off the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe that has a few small trees growing on it.

While it's an interesting sight on its own, it really takes on an extra level of beauty during sunset, when the sun dips behind the Sierra Nevadas to the west.

As you can see in the photo above, the fiery colors of the sunset bring interest to the sky and to the calm waters of the lake, which helps brighten up the foreground as well.

The little cove in which Bonsai Rock resides is a popular spot for photographers, so get there early to get a premium spot.

^{Photo by Jesse Gardner on Unsplash}

Planning Your Lake Tahoe Trip

• Where to Stay:The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is in a great location on the southern tip of Lake Tahoe, offers 4-Star service, plentiful opportunities for gambling, lake views, and poolside cabanas. Prices are as low as $109/night.
• Where to Eat: Cafe Fiore is just across the state line in California on the southern shore of the lake. It's a tiny restaurant with tons of ambiance and rave reviews for their authentic Italian cuisine.
• Must-See Attractions: Emerald Bay State Park is a must-see spot across the border in California. The bay itself is breathtaking, but add in the fact that the only island in Lake Tahoe is in the bay and that there's a gorgeous, historic mansion on the bay as well, and you have a recipe for tons of gorgeous photographs. Sunrise is the ideal time to visit. Don't miss out on Eagle Falls, either.
• Check the weather in Lake Tahoe right now.

Sand Harbor is Prime Photo Territory

^{Photo by MariuszBlach via iStock}

One of the most picturesque beaches in Lake Tahoe is found in Sand Harbor along the northeastern shore of the lake.

As the name indicates, Sand Harbor is a quiet, calm inlet with beautiful sandy beaches that make it an ideal place to take photos (and swim, too!).

During the summer, the area is virtually overrun with tourists during the day. But once the sun starts to go down, most of the crowds disappear, leaving you and other photographers alone to find the perfect spot for a shot of the harbor at sunset.

Note that there is a $10 entrance fee to Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park and that Sand Harbor closes one hour after sunset.

^{Photo by NeilLockhart via iStock}

Planning Your Sand Harbor Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is a 4-Star hotel just north of Sand Harbor and offers rooms starting at $156/night. The hotel's private beach is a must-see, and for some fun and relaxation, you can enjoy the on-site casino or the spa.
• Where to Eat: Lone Eagle Grille is a fine-dining experience with an extensive menu of American cuisine and an impressive wine list as well.
• Must-See Attractions: The large granite boulders that litter the landscape in and around Sand Harbor are worth a few clicks of your shutter button. Their shape, color, and texture add wonderful visual interest to photos of the harbor. Check out all the recreational opportunities in the Sand Harbor as well, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.
• Check the weather at Sand Harbor right now.

Find 360-Degree Views of Lake Tahoe From Cave Rock

^{Photo by TrevorFairbank via iStock} 

To get a little more perspective on Lake Tahoe, Cave Rock should be on your list of top spots to photograph in Tahoe.

Just a short climb up the rocks, you'll find yourself with a breathtaking view of the lake from above.

Just park on the street and follow the path up the rock. You'll likely have fellow photographers at the top, so just be patient to get a prime spot to set up.

Wide-angle shots from this vantage point can be breathtaking, but don't discount the value of bringing a telephoto zoom with you to get more detailed and intimate shots of the surrounding area.

The area is open sunrise to sunset, and a $10 fee is required to enter (the fee gets you into all areas within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park).

^{Photo by Sharon Lynn via iStock}

Planning Your Cave Rock Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is one of the nearest hotels to Cave Rock, but if you prefer something a little different, Harrah's Lake Tahoe offers a similar level of service and amenities for a smaller price tag.
• Where to Eat: For a quick bite to eat, Fatburger at Harrah's is a great option.
• Must-See Attractions: The Cave Rock area is rife with recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and beaches.
• Check the weather at Cave Rock right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

---

If you're traveling to the Silver State with your camera in tow, don't leave before consulting this Nevada Photography and Travel Guide.

Though it would be virtually impossible to offer tips and hints for the all the best places to photograph in Nevada, we've got three top photography hot-spots you need to visit outlined below.

Additionally, we've taken the liberty of helping you with your planning by recommending places to stay, places to eat, and points of interest along the way.

All told, this guide gives you insights into beautiful photography spots from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon to Hoover Dam.

Let's get started!

What to Photograph in Nevada - The Strip

Though the glitz and glam of Las Vegas' Strip isn't for everyone, it's undeniable that there is a lot to photograph along the 4.2 miles of tarmac that runs through the heart of the city.

From bright neon lights to incredible architecture to dancing water features, there's no lack of subject matter for creating eye-catching photos.

Street photography opportunities abound as well, with millions of people from all corners of the globe trekking to Vegas each year to try their hand at lady luck.

Be sure to visit the Fremont Street Experience for eye-popping photos of neon lights, check out the outdoor sculptures at the Smith Center for opportunities for portraits set against interesting backdrops, and visit Eldorado Canyon for a little landscape photography and ghost town experience as well.

Planning Your Las Vegas Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Palazzo at the Venetian Resort is in a great location on The Strip, offers 5-Star service, and has excellent reviews from guests. Prices are as low as $110/night.
• Where to Eat: Top of the World has an excellent old-school Vegas menu, and with a location atop the Stratosphere tower, it also has the best views of the city.
• Must-See Attractions: For a wild ride, try the X-Scream Roller Coaster at the top of the Stratosphere tower.
• Check the weather in Las Vegas right now.

Red Rock Canyon is a Photographer's Dream

Just a few miles west of Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must-see location for photographers.

With nearly 200,000 acres of wilderness within the Mojave Desert to explore, you have plenty of room to roam and subjects on which to train your camera.

The beautiful vistas, red rocks, and different flora and fauna will challenge your photography eye and inspire your creativity.

Note that taking photos for casual or personal use is fine and does not require a permit. However, if you're a professional photographer or videographer, you'll need to get a permit before conducting any work. There is a $15 per vehicle charge to enter the area.

Planning Your Red Rock Canyon Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: Since the canyon is so close to Las Vegas, you don't need different accommodations. However, if you'd rather be away from The Strip, the Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa is a top choice.
• Where to Eat: Bonnie Springs Ranch Restaurant is just south of the park and offers American food in a country-western style dining hall.
• Must-See Attractions: The 13-mile scenic drive through the park is a must, with pull-outs and trails along the way for you to get out and explore the area with your camera. 
• Check the weather at Red Rock Canyon right now.

Photograph Nevada History at Hoover Dam

It's not that Hoover Dam is particularly beautiful or anything, but its sheer size and the story behind its construction makes it a top spot to photograph in Nevada.

Constructed between 1931 and 1936, the dam is nearly 730-feet high and cost $41 million to build (in 1931 money). Today, it would cost nearly $700 million to construct.

When photographing the dam, walk across the Memorial Bridge Walkway on Highway 111 for the best view of the dam. Another prime vantage point to consider is from the Arizona side just east of the spillway, which affords views of the back of the dam and the intake towers, which light up beautifully at night.

Planning Your Hoover Dam Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: Again, Hoover Dam isn't all that far from Las Vegas, so you could stay in the same hotel on The Strip and make a day trip out of visiting the Dam. Another option is the Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort, which offers 4-star service and a spa.
• Where to Eat: If you like BBQ, it's tough to beat Fox Smokehouse BBQ in Boulder City.
• Must-See Attractions: The official tour of Hoover Dam is well worth your time.
• Check the weather at Hoover Dam right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

---

^{Photo by Elizabeth M. Ruggiero via iStock}

Northeastern Nevada presents photographers with a wide range of subject matter.

From desolate deserts to bustling cities to national parks to ghost towns, it's an interesting and lonely place.

Best known for Highway 50, the loneliest highway in the world, as well as Elko, the Ruby Mountains, and Great Basin National Park, northeastern Nevada is certainly a place worth exploring and getting lost amongst the breathtaking landscapes.

This travel and photography guide for northeastern Nevada offers you some insights into what to see and photograph, where to stay, and what to eat.

What to Photograph in Northeastern Nevada - Highway 50

^{Photo by Boogich via iStock}

Though Highway 50 stretches across the entire United States - from West Sacramento, California to Ocean City, Maryland - its best-known stretch is perhaps that in Nevada.

A long, ribbon of tarmac, Highway 50 takes you through some of the most desolate areas in the Continental United States. There are many stretches in which there are few - if any - signs of civilization.

But the highway winds its way through some of Nevada's most iconic locations - Lake Tahoe and Carson City, alpine forests, ghost towns, desert valleys, and Great Basin National Park as well.

^{Photo by Gunter_Nezhoda via iStock}

Planning Your Highway 50 Trip

• Where to Stay: The La Quinta Inn & Suites Ely is clean and affordable. And since Ely is the last town for 162 miles as you travel west on Highway 50, it's really the only place to stay!
• Where to Eat: If you're looking for good down-to-earth food and a large selection of drinks, give Racks Bar & Grill in Ely a try.
• Must-See Attractions: The Nevada Northern Railway Museum is a must-see for train enthusiasts. The night sky-themed train ride is highly recommended.
• Check the weather in Ely right now.

The Ruby Mountains are a Photographer's Paradise

^{Photo by Joesboy via iStock} 

Tucked in northeastern Nevada about 21 miles southeast of Elko, the Ruby Mountains are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the state.

Known for their abundances of wildlife, the Rubies offer spectacular views of mountains, lakes, valleys, and streams as well.

You can hike the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail that takes you along the spine of the range or visit the Ruby National Wildlife Refuge to scope out migratory birds. The Ruby Mountains Wilderness is a must-see as well, with over 90,000 acres of protected landscapes to delight your eye and serve as subject matter for your photos. 

^{Photo by Justin R. Ray via iStock}

Planning Your Ruby Mountains Trip

• Where to Stay: The Best Western Elko Inn has excellent reviews and is centrally located on the eastern edge of Elko, giving you easy access to local attractions and restaurants.
• Where to Eat: The Star Hotel gets rave reviews for its authentic Basque menu.
• Must-See Attractions: The tiny hamlet of Lamoille, located at the base of the Rubies, is nestled along a creek amongst mature trees and is home to a postcard-worthy church - Little Church of the Crossroads - that's a must-see.
• Check the weather at the Ruby Mountains right now.

Get Lost With Your Camera in Great Basin National Park

^{Photo by milehightraveler via iStock}

Though Great Basin National Park might not have the name recognition of Yellowstone or Yosemite, it certainly doesn't short you on opportunities to take breathtaking landscape photos.

From the majestic Wheeler Peak to the mysterious Lehman Caves, there are landforms aplenty that will astonish you.

This area is also home to ancient Bristlecone pines that make ideal subjects for your photos.

A can't-miss photo op in this region is night photography, thanks to crystal clear skies that reveal a blanket of stars over the basin on most nights throughout the year.

^{Photo by johnnya123 via iStock}

Planning Your Great Basin National Park Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Stargazer Inn has excellent reviews and is one of the closest motels to the park.
• Where to Eat: Kerouac's Restaurant at the Stargazer Inn offers fresh takes on American classics and is open seasonally, April-October.
• Must-See Attractions: The Lehman Caves are a spectacular sight that can't be missed when in Great Basin National Park. Tours run daily throughout the year and are led by park rangers that explain the history and geology of the caves. Make reservations early though, as the tours often sell out.
• Check the weather at Great Basin National right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

---

^{Photo by DennyThurstonPhotography via iStock} 

Though northwestern Nevada might not have all the glitz and glam of Las Vegas or the name recognition of Lake Tahoe, there are still plenty of photography opportunities in this area.

Perhaps best known for Black Rock City - the host location for Burning Man - this part of Nevada is desolate, rugged, and full of beautiful and interesting landscapes.

In this travel and photography guide for northwestern Nevada, we offer insights into three of our favorite locations for photography.

Let's get to it!

What to Photograph in Northwestern Nevada - Black Rock Desert

^{Photo by mattnomad via iStock}

The Black Rock Desert is a massive, protected area of nearly 315,000 acres.

Amongst all that acreage are an abundance of opportunities to photograph canyons, mountains, and even hot springs.

Much of the area is actually a playa - an enormous alkali flats - where you can take photos of the desert scene, capture images of landsailing, watch as people launch homemade rockets, and if you're timing is right, you can even catch the Burning Man Festival as well.

^{Photo by wundervisuals via iStock} 

Planning Your Black Rock Desert Trip

• Where to Stay: The Holiday Inn Express Winnemucca is about 76 miles away and is one of the closest hotels to the Black Rock Desert.
• Where to Eat: Bruno's Country Club offers a menu of traditional comfort food, and its location on Main Street in the town of Gerlach makes it one of the closest eateries to Black Rock Desert.
• Must-See Attractions: The Burning Man Festival turns the playa into a must-see event each year in the late summer. Visit the Burning Man website for dates and other details.
• Check the weather in Black Rock City right now.

Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge is Prime Wildlife Photography Territory

^{Photo by milehightraveler via iStock}

Established in 1931 as an area to protect American pronghorn, the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge is awash with all kinds of wildlife, including mule deer, sage grouse, pygmy rabbit, and many varieties of song birds and migratory birds, like the American bittern shown above.

The refuge is mostly high desert with wide-open spaces of sagebrush-covered prairie with narrow canyons and rolling valleys interspersed throughout.

There are also many mountain peaks and steep cliffs, giving you opportunities for many different kinds of landscape photography in addition to wildlife photography.

Some restrictions apply regarding photography. Visit the refuge's permit page to learn more.

Planning Your Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge Trip

• Where to Stay: The Royal Peacock Opal Mine has a small RV Park, tent camping, and cabins. Be aware that the nearest full-service grocery store is 100 miles away and the closest gas station is 34 miles away. This area is extremely desolate!
• Where to Eat: Your best bet is to pack a lunch (maybe dinner too) ahead of time as there are very few places to eat, and what is available is prohibitively far away.
• Must-See Attractions: This area has an abundance of wildlife and sweeping vistas. Take a break from taking photos and simply enjoy watching wildlife or take in the sunset! The Thousand Creek Gorge (shown in the video above by Scott Waters) isn't bad either.
• Check the weather at the refuge right now.

Photograph the Mysterious Fly Geyser

^{Photo by Spencer Jones via iStock}

Perhaps one of the most interesting features in northwestern Nevada is Fly Geyser.

The geyser is actually not natural - it was accidentally created as a result of drilling a well in 1964. When the drilling commenced, geothermal water emerged and has been flowing ever since.

The travertine mound that surrounds the geyser has continued to grow over the years, and will keep doing so while water is still flowing. Inside the mound, quartz has already started forming, which is unusual since quartz usually takes about 10,000 years to form.

Fly Geyser used to be on private property, but Burning Man has since purchased the land. There are guided tours are available depending on the time of year.

^{Photo by Pixonian via iStock}

Planning Your Fly Geyser Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: Iveson Ranch offers primitive camping and a few dude ranch buildings that have been converted into guest rooms.
• Where to Eat: Since the Fly Geyser is close to the town of Gerlach, Bruno's Country Club is a good bet.
• Must-See Attractions: The so-called "Burner Byway" offers all kinds of interesting activities from photo ops to history lessons to scenic byways and much more.
• Check the weather at Fly Geyser right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

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^{Photo by bluebeat76 via iStock} 

While southeastern Nevada is best known for Las Vegas and the Hoover Dam, there are plenty of other must-see locales that are worth your time as a photographer.

In fact, there are gorgeous vistas, beautiful lakes, stunning canyons, and other landscape features in this part of the state that make it a veritable playground for landscape photographers.

In this travel and photography guide for southeastern Nevada, we offer an overview of three top destinations for photographers, where you can stay, and a few good places to eat as well.

What to Photograph in Southeastern Nevada - Valley of Fire State Park

^{Photo by LeoPatrizi via iStock} 

One of the most photographed landscapes in all of Nevada, Valley of Fire State Park has over 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone formations that make for a beautiful subject for your photos.

Set amongst gray and tan limestone, these bright red sandstone formations look otherworldly.

Add to that a host of petrified trees and petroglyphs that are thousands of years old, and you have the makings of a photography spot that will keep you busy all day long. Just note that there is a $10 entrance fee and that the park is open from sunrise to sunset, apart from the campgrounds which are open 24 hours a day.

^{Photo by rickberk via iStock}

Planning Your Valley of Fire State Park Trip

• Where to Stay: The North Shore Inn gets very good reviews from guests and is budget-friendly with rooms starting at under $100 per night. It's also one of the closest accommodations to the park.
• Where to Eat: The Inside Scoop has a menu of comfort food and their ice cream gets rave reviews.
• Must-See Attractions: The park's Visitor Center is a must-see, with exhibits on the area's ecology, geology, and prehistory. Also be sure to check out the park's many hiking trails.
• Check the weather in Valley of Fire State Park right now.

Get Your Feet Wet in Lake Mead

^{Photo by 4kodiak via iStock} 

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is one of the most popular tourist spots in Nevada.

But it isn't just for boating and swimming...

There are many areas on and around the lake that are certainly worthy of your time as a photographer, including the steep rock cliffs that line the lake, sunsets and sunrises over the lake's waters, and the nine wilderness areas within the area's boundaries where you can capture photos of plant and animal life.

Entrance fees to the park are $25 per vehicle, but the pass is good for seven consecutive days.

^{Photo by ericfoltz via iStock}

Planning Your Lake Mead Trip

• Where to Stay: The Westin Las Vegas Resort and Spa might not be the closest hotel to Lake Mead, but it's certainly worth the drive for the four-star service, impeccable facilities, and the amenities, which include a spa, golf course, fine dining, and more. Prices start at under $100 per night.
• Where to Eat: Take a break from taking photos and head to Las Vegas Boat Harbor, Lake Mead Marina where you'll find various snack bars and restaurants where you can refuel for another day's adventures.
• Must-See Attractions: Pipe Spring, which is home to strange granite and metamorphic rock formations, and the ancient sand dunes of Redstone (shown above) should be on your list of places to see and photograph.
• Check the weather at the Ruby Mountains right now.

Sloan Canyon is a Must-See Nevada Photography Destination

^{Photo by Gromit702 via iStock}

The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is a quiet, lonely place where you can certainly find some solitude to be alone with the beauty of nature.

With nearly 50,000 acres, the conservation area protects a variety of cultural and geologic features, including ancient petroglyphs that date to thousands of years ago.

In fact, the Sloan Canyon Petroglyph Site is one of the most important cultural areas in Southern Nevada, with more than 300 rock art panels and 1,700 individual designs created by native cultures.

^{Photo by LordRunar via iStock} 

Planning Your Sloan Canyon Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The M Resort is one of the closest hotels to Sloan Canyon, and offers gorgeous rooms, tasty restaurants, and bars and pools for fun. Prices start at under $100.
  
• Where to Eat: The Munch Box in Henderson offers quick, healthy meals and gets top reviews from customers for its food and service.
  
• Must-See Attractions: Boulder City is just east of Sloan Canyon and offers many opportunities for recreation, including many parks, trails, sporting opportunities, and photo ops throughout the area.
• Check the weather at Sloan Canyon right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above.

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

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 ^{photo byProstock-Studio via iStock}

After a long year of very little work, my calendar is really quickly filling up. Thankfully, I’ve been in this industry for years so I recognize how much work I can take on at once, but I have a lot of friends who are struggling because they don’t want to say “no” to their clients and they are ending up way in over their heads. 

Thankfully, there are a ton of organizational hacks that you can use to keep yourself on track, to spend less time on administrative jobs, and, ultimately, to keep your clients happy.

All of these organization tips for photographers are things that you can easily implement this week, because if there’s one thing I know it’s that you’ll never learn how to streamline your business with photography business tips that are more trouble than they’re worth. 

All of these organization tips for photographers are also relatively cheap. 

Invest in Being Comfortable

 ^{photo bymediaphotos via iStock}

My favorite organization tips for photographers are ones that help you do your job better because you’re more comfortable. Sure, it’s annoying to have to go searching for a password or to forget to post something on Instagram, but there’s nothing worse than working in a space that is physically uncomfortable. 

This is why I recommend that you invest in your own comfort. Ergonomic chairs are far cheaper than they ever have been and if you’ve never used one before, then you will be shocked at just how comfortable they are.  

You should also have a desk that is large enough for you to be able to comfortably work on. And, truthfully, it should be a desk that is height-adjustable so you can change your working position over the course of the day. I know I get very fatigued if I just sit all day, so a standing desk was the ideal solution for my workflow.

And I know what you're thinking - a standing desk is way too expensive. But you're wrong!

ZipDesk is an affordable standing desk that's priced starting at $729. Now, that's still a good chunk of change, but when you consider that this is a high-quality desk with features like a Bluetooth controller, a smartphone app, and a dual-stage, dual-motor lift, you begin to realize that this desk is an investment for the long-term, not just a quick fix to make you more comfortable.

The ZipDesk is engineered and built in the U.S., and with certifications for reliability and durability, as well as being compliant with ergonomics guidelines, it's a great partner for giving you a more comfortable (and functional) workspace.

These desks are pre-made and ship the same day they're ordered. When the ZipDesk arrives at your door, it's 95-percent complete, so you can unpack it and set it up and start your workday in just eight minutes.

Add in tilt-over detection technology, anti-collision technology, a 10-year top-to-bottom warranty, and a 100-day satisfaction guarantee to the mix, and you have the makings of one heck of a desk for a comparatively low price. Heck, the desk even disassembles easily, so if you move to a new home or office space, you don't have to spend all day taking your desk apart and reassembling it.

With a fully-programmable digital controller with an easy-to-read LCD readout and three height favorites to choose from, this desk is ready to rock to help you be more comfortable at work.

But don't take my word for it - learn more about the ZipDesk to see why it's the desk for you!

Of course, you can also invest in ergonomic keyboards if you’re trying to get really fancy with your space. The important thing is that you try everything out before purchasing it, or at the very least purchase it somewhere like Amazon that will easily accept returns. You’ll be worse off if you invest in anergonomic chair orkeyboard that doesn’t work for you. 

I recommend that you start here, because all of the other organization tips for photographers on this list truly take a back seat to your comfort. 

Focus on Digital and Physical Storage

 ^{photo byKostikova via iStock}

The next set of organization tips for photographers is to figure out your digital and physical storage. I mentioned physical storage above when I recommended that you buy a desk with more shelving, but this tip doesn’t go nearly far enough. 

You should purchase a great bag that will allow you to store all of the photo gear you typically need for a shoot, so that you can just pick it up and go. You should also purchase boxes and a label maker for gear you only use a few times a month. After years of storing all of my photography gear in a closet, without any labels or organization, I can firmly tell you that you should not make the same mistake.

However, many organization tips for photographers don’t deal with physical items, but digital ones. Think about where all of your images are currently stored. If you didn’t have access to your memory cards or your laptop, would you still be able to access all of them? If the answer is no, then you need to get some digital storage. 

You can use a cloud based storage, like Google Drive or iCloud, or an external hard drive, like this one from LaCie. There would truly be nothing worse than losing a ton of client photos out of carelessness.  

Another point about keeping your stuff organized is having the right camera bag to keep your gear safe, secure, and easy to access while you're out shooting.

I've gushed over my Camera Pack from Nomatic and Peter McKinnon before...it's simply one of the best camera bags I've ever had.

And now they've teamed up to create a new line of Everyday Bags that continue the tradition of being uber-useful for photographers.

The Everyday line includes a backpack and a sling bag that give you all the options you need for carrying your gear.

In both cases, you get weather-resistant materials, comfortable shoulder straps, thoughtful organization, and durable construction.

Both bags are incredibly well designed to give you the height of functionality and to help you keep your gear - whether big or small - neatly organized.

We're talking dedicated storage for batteries and memory cards, optional dividers and cubes to give you customized storage spaces, tons of mesh and zipper pockets, and easy access.

But don't take my word for it...have a peek at their Kickstarter campaign and see why these bags would be a great addition to your gear collection!

Learn More:

• Free Ways to Boost Your Photography Business
• This is What Your Customer Service Should Look Like

Automate Your Website and Social Media

 ^{photo bygolubovy via iStock}

Now that we’ve gotten some of the most important organization tips for photographers out of the way, we can get to some of the more fun tips for being more organized: like automation. 

You’re no longer worried about losing your photos. You’re no longer worried about an aching back from hours of photo editing. Now, you can be worried about making your life easier. And automation is one of the best ways to do it.

I recommend that you automate all of your social media posts, since very few photographers really love posting to their social media accounts anyways. You can use a number of different tools to do it, like Hootsuite, Later, or Plann.

 ^{photo byTero Vesalainen via iStock}

All of these tools are going to cost a nominal fee, but the time you’re saving is more than worth it. At first, you should aim to have your social media posts planned out one week in advance. But, when you really get going, you’ll soon have them planned out a few months ahead. This is definitely one of those organization tips for photographers that will enable you to squeeze in more clients because you’re no longer worried about the mundane part of your job. 

You can do the same thing with your website, as well. You should be posting to a blog on your website at least a few times a month and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t create your blog content a few months in advance. You can add this content to your editorial calendar. 

Keep Every Conversation in One Place

I don’t know why keeping on top of communication can be so difficult for photographers, but I get tons of emails about it. So, I couldn’t create an article all about organization tips for photographers without including at least one about staying on top of your conversations with clients.  

I recommend Podium to every photographer I meet. Podium is an all-in-one messaging platform that pulls every conversation you have with clients and puts them all on one platform. You will never again have to jump from Gmail, to Instagram, to Yelp, to your texts, and back again, because Podium takes every message you receive and places it in one inbox. 

It also helps me to keep track of how much time it generally takes me to respond to clients. You are far more likely to get jobs if you are the first photographer to respond to a potential client. By keeping track of my average response time, Podium has actually helped me to bring in more money to my business. What’s not to like about that?!

Learn More:

• How to Get Feedback from Clients the Easy Way
• 4 Benefits of Text Messaging for Business

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If you're a photography gear head like me, you've probably heard about the Camera Pack from Peter McKinnon and Nomatic.

Spoiler alert...this thing is absolutely incredible from top to bottom, inside and out!

I've had my pack for about three months now, and wanted to give an update on how its held up, what I like about the bag, and what I'm not quite sold on yet.

In the video above, I give my complete review. Check it out to see this bag in action!

Below, I've hit the highlights of what I discuss in the video...it's just a quick summary of what I think are the most important things this bag has to offer.

It's Two Bags in One

The Camera Pack is really two bags in one.

That's because there's a day pack built into the larger pack, which is about as ingenious as it gets.

You can pack a small kit in the day pack and head out for an adventure with everything you need while leaving the larger pack at home or in the hotel room.

It's a system that's perfectly designed for photographers that are traveling, that way you can customize your bag to your needs for each specific day or location. Nice!

Recommended Photography Books

• 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

It's Incredibly Comfortable

As I explain in my video, you won't believe how comfortable this bag is.

I crammed it full of gear - way more than I needed - and hiked up a mountain to see if the Nomatic folks were right when they said it was a supremely comfortable bag.

I have to say...they were right!

I had three camera bodies with extra batteries for each, multiple lenses, two large tripods, a drone with four batteries, filters...you get the point.

The measure of a bag's comfort is found when you load it for bear with gear, and the Nomatic Camera Pack definitely passes the test!

Organization Has Never Been So Easy

 

I've been accused on more than one occasion of not being all that organized.

But the way this bag is designed makes it impossible for me to not have my gear neat and tidy.

There are tons of compartments to store gear and there are movable dividers so you can adjust how the gear compartment is arranged based on your specific needs. In that regard, it's a modular system that can adapt...just what you want when you have different gear needs for different occasions.

There's large side access pockets and a huge clam-shell opening to access all your gear inside, so not only is your stuff well-organized, but it's also easy to access.

Learn More:

• Best Camera Bags of 2019

Build Quality is Second-to-None 

I'm a bit of a gear snob, so when I pick up a new camera bag, I look very closely at the construction. After all, I want something that will stand up to use and abuse for years to come.

So far, the Nomatic pack is firing on all cylinders...

It's got a water-resistant exterior that performed beautifully on my winter trip to Lake Tahoe.

Not only that, but the exterior held up nicely to being set down on rocks and in mud. My gear was safe and sound and perfectly dry despite the adverse conditions, and the exterior shell came away unscathed.

The EVA foam panels on the back of the bag help keep you dry too - they wick away moisture so you aren't a sweaty hog when you arrive to your destination.

I also appreciate all the handles all over the bag. Sometimes you need to grab and go, so having handles that are easy to access makes it much easier to get out the door.

The one caveat with the construction is this - it's so pretty that you feel bad getting it dirty!

Nomatic Camera Pack Review

In my review video, I dive into the interior compartment of the camera in depth. Be sure to check that out to see just how functional this bag has been for me.

I've really enjoyed using this bag the last three months, and I can't help but give it as close to a 100 percent as it gets!

Sure, it weighs a ton (six pounds), but despite all that weight, it's incredibly comfortable.

Other than its weight, the only other nitpicky thing I can even think of is that the included filter holder only accommodates circular filters. Since I use square filters, the filter holder doesn't help me out.

But, that's a very minor detail, especially when you consider all the excellent features this bag has to offer.

I'll have another long-term review in a few months, but at this point, I have to say that this is one of the best camera bags I've ever tested!

 

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^{Photo by Geber86 via iStock}

I take full responsibility for being one of "those" photographers that are very, very hard to shop for...

I'm picky. I like the things I like. And I have much of what I already want. Yeah. I'm that guy.

And if you're reading this article, you most likely have one of those people on your holiday shopping list. Either that or you didn't get your holiday shopping done on time!

Whatever the case, I've got ten fantastic gifts (each of which I have personally tried or owned) that should bring a big smile to the face of your favorite photographer.

I give an overview of each item in the video above. Or if you're the reading type, I've highlighted each gift idea below.

Without further ado, let's get started!

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Herman Miller Embody Chair

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list is like me, they spend hours and hours and hours at their desk editing photos (and probably a fair amount of videos, too).

As the hours drag on, you can get really uncomfortable - especially if you don't have the right desk chair that gives you the support you need.

In the past, I tried a wide range of desk chairs and was pretty underwhelmed with the support and level of comfort they offered. Then I bought my first Herman Miller Embody chair.

I know that calling a desk chair "life changing" would be taking it a bit too far, but this chair has proven to be the ultimate in comfort. I've actually had two of these chairs over the last ten years, and after using them, I'll never go back to any other kind of office chair.

I love everything about this chair:

• The fabric is soft and helps dissipate heat as I'm seated.
• The back is highly adjustable so you can position it to be perfectly in line with your spine.
• You can adjust the seat depth and the arms.
• The design of the chair was done with input from physicians and PhDs in biomechanics, physical therapy, ergonomics, and vision, to help Herman Miller create a chair that is the ultimate in comfort and ergonomics.

In short, this chair not only looks good, but it also offers you loads of utility. The seat and back conform to your movements, allowing the chair to distribute your weight as you're seated. This helps reduce pressure points, encourage movement, improve circulation, and help you maintain your focus.

As photographers, there's a lot of time needed sitting at our desks, and with a chair like this, that time will be far more comfortable. If you want the ideal gift for the photographer on your list, the Herman Miller Embody chair is it!

Learn more about the Herman Miller Embody

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: CanvasHQ Canvas Print

^{This is just a sampling of my CanvasHQ prints!}

Here's what I love about canvas...

The texture brings my images to life by giving them a touch of added depth and interest. Plus, I love the depth that the frame gives to the photo as it hangs on the wall. It really makes it an experience to view the image.

I started using CanvasHQ years ago as my go-to canvas printing company, and I’ve never turned back.

I have dozens of canvases from these guys of all sizes, and I’ve never been disappointed when I opened the box to reveal the print.

I mean...there’s a reason why CanvasHQ has won our $100 secret shopper canvas print shootout for two years running!

The quality of these prints is just incredible...they use professional-grade inks, archival-grade canvas, and they hand make the frames using kiln-dried wood.

In other words, their commitment to quality shows in every aspect of the process. Each print is truly a showpiece that gives your images that extra visual appeal.

Whether you’re in the market for a little last-minute gift for yourself or someone on your list, a canvas print from CanvasHQ is a great option this holiday season. Plus, they have a quick turnaround time. Nice!

Learn more about CanvasHQ

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Used Nikon D500 from MPB

I’ve worked with MPB for a number of years. I’ve bought and sold gear on their site, and the experience was always top-notch.

So that got me thinking…

A great gift for a photographer on your shopping list is a tried-and-true camera like the Nikon D500.

MPB has a number of D500s in stock, starting at around $1,000, which is about half of the price of a new D500 when it was released in 2016.

And don’t be scared by the fact that this is a four-year-old camera. It still has some great specs, like:

• 20.9-megapixel sensor
• EXPEED 5 processor
• Multi-CAM 20K autofocus system with 153 AF points including 99 cross-type points
• 10fps continuous shooting
• ISO range of 100-51200
• 4K UHD video at 30, 25, and 24p
• 3.2-inch 2.3 million dot tilting RGB LCD touchscreen
• Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi

Plus, since the D500 has an APS-C sensor, the camera body is smaller and lighter than a full frame camera. This makes it an ideal option for wildlife photographers, sports photographers, and photographers that travel.

A new D500 will set you back about $1,500, so a used one at about $1,000 is a great buy.

Learn more about the Nikon D500

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Camera Bag

Obviously, I can’t have a holiday gift guide for photographers without a recommendation for a camera bag…But in this case, this is a two-for-one situation.

My primary bag is the Peter McKinnon Nomatic Camera Pack.

As I explain in the video above, apart from being a beautiful bag, this thing is hugely versatile and full of features. Get a load of some of these specs:

• Holds 35 liters of gear (expands to 42 liters)
• Water-resistant
• External straps for things 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.

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?  

Now...you don’t need a big bag for every trip.

When I want to run and gun with a single camera kit, I opt for my HEX Ranger Sling V2 bag.

This little guy holds up to 8 liters of gear, which is perfect for carrying a single camera, lens, and accessories.

What I love most about this bag is that it hugs your body...unlike other slings I’ve tested over the years, this one doesn’t flop all over the place as I’m moving.

It’s loaded for bear with features too:

• Genuine Cordura exterior with YKK zippers
• Adjustable bottom carry straps
• Hideaway rainfly
• Improved padding on the shoulder pad for an even more comfortable carrying experience
• Double buckle strap so you can size the bag perfectly to your body
• Collapsible interior dividers so you can pack the bag down to almost nothing
• Tons of organization including a front organizer pocket, a faux-fur lined phone/sunglasses pocket, and a faux-fur lined tablet pocket

So as you can see, this is a bag that is small but mighty! Plus, it’s priced at less than $100, so it’s also a budget-friendly gift!

Learn more about the Peter McKinnon/Nomatic Camera Pack and the HEX Ranger Sling V2. Give the HEX Ranger Sling V1 a look too!

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Artbeat Studios Metal Print

In addition to loving canvas prints, I’m also a sucker for a good metal print.

I like how sleek and modern metal prints look. And if you get your metal print from the right company, you’ll find that the colors, sharpness, and vibrancy really come out in your image.

I got my first metal print from Artbeat Studios a few years back. I still remember how amazed I was at the quality of the print the first time I laid eyes on it.

I’ve used Artbeat Studios over and over again to get metal prints because they simply offer the best combination of quality and customer service that I’ve been able to find.

And I’ve looked a lot!!

Artbeat Studios was crowned our 2020 best metal print company earlier this year after I got metal prints from them and several other companies.

In a head-to-head evaluation, the print from Artbeat Studios stood head and shoulders above the rest.

So, if you want to add a big, beautiful metal print to your home or the home of someone on your list, give Artbeat Studios a try...you won’t be disappointed!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Photography Books

I couldn’t even tell you how many books I have around my house…and in my Kindle.

I really LOVE books. I love learning. I love to improve my skill set. And this holiday season, you can do that for yourself or for a photographer on your list with a good photography book.

There are tons of titles I could recommend, but since 2020 has been such a crappy year, I wanted to recommend a photography book that might inspire you and offer you a little hope.

For that, I would say that Photo Therapy Motivation and Wisdom: Discovering the Power of Pictures by Rick Sammon is a GREAT choice.

This book has lots of quotes that will inspire you to get out there and shoot. Likewise, the book makes you think about how you approach photography and how you have the power to become a better photographer.

You’ll learn about things like “Seeing vs. Looking,” “Emotional Intelligence for Photographers,” and how to create your own reality in your images.

Rick even put a bunch of photography missions you can undertake in order to learn new skills and gain confidence behind the lens.

I checked Amazon and this book is available for $10 on Kindle or $15.99 in paperback. It’s a great inexpensive last-minute gift that will inspire photographers to take their game to the next level.

Learn more about Photo Therapy Motivation and Wisdom: Discovering the Power of Pictures

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: ProGrade Memory Card

A good, reliable memory card is a fantastic gift that any photographer will love. It’s a great stocking stuffer too!

A few years ago, I’d be talking about Sandisk cards right now, but after I had a bad experience with a failed card, I started exploring other options.

I started using ProGrade cards after hearing about them from several other photographers. Once I got my first one and experienced its incredible speed and reliability, there was no looking back!

I now have several ProGrade cards, including SD cards and CFexpress cards for my EOS R5 and R6.

In both cases, these cards have proven their worth with reliable performance and blazing speed regardless of whether I’m shooting stills or video with my Canon cameras.

This is DEFINITELY one of those things where you get what you pay for…and for my money, nothing beats ProGrade!

Learn more about Prograde SD cards and Prograde CFexpress cards

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Used Canon 5D Mark III From MPB

If you’re shopping for a Canon shooter, you might consider getting them a 5D Mark III to add to their kit.

This would make the perfect second camera body for a professional photographer.

It’s a full frame, professional-grade camera that has great specs, even for an eight-year-old camera. Check these features out:

• 22.3-megapixel sensor
• DIGIC 5+ processor
• 61-point AF system including 41 cross-type points
• 6fps continuous shooting
• ISO range of 100-25600
• Full HD video
• 3.2-inch LCD with 920,000 dots

Sure, this camera doesn’t offer some of the modern features like 4K video, WiFi, or a touchscreen, but for photographers looking for a second body or for photographers that want to jump into a full frame camera, this is an affordable and reliable option.

MPB has a bunch of these in stock, which start at just $650. Which considering you can still buy this new at $2700…this is a crazy deal!

Learn more about the Canon 5D Mark III

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: A Good Filter Kit

This is yet another one of those items where you get what you pay for...

Think about it...it doesn’t make sense to invest in a good lens and then slap a cheap filter on the front of it. 

Instead, think of filters as another one of those long-term investments where paying a little more now will pay dividends for years to come.

I have filters from a number of different companies that have proven to be extremely well made, reliable, and give me the results I want in my images.

If you’re on a tighter budget, a great option is Haida Filters.

I’ve tested their M10 and M15 filter systems, and found them to be very easy to use.

Their individual filters, like their polarizers, NDs, and graduated NDs show a high level of craftsmanship and durability as well.

If you have a bit of a higher budget, I recommend PolarPro Summit filters.

This series of filters includes NDs, soft grads, hard grads, a reverse grad, and a polarizer.

There’s also a mounting bracket and a variety of thread plates to adapt the bracket to various lenses.

I think the most impressive thing about these filters is the aluminum frame that helps you get a good grip on the filter without touching the glass.

Better still, the frames are lightweight, yet durable too, which is exactly what you want in a filter!

I also like how the circular polarizer fits seamlessly into the filter holder...there are ZERO light leaks with this thing!

Again, these filters are a little more expensive, but man do you get what you pay for!!

Learn more about Haida Filters and PolarPro Summit Filters

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Holdfast MoneyMaker

I’ve tested dozens of camera straps, but I always come back to one that I’ve had in my kit for years...the Holdfast Moneymaker.

There’s a lot to love about a leather strap...they’re incredibly durable, they conform to your shoulder more and more as you use them, and in the case of Holdfast, the leather is premium grade and absolutely beautiful.

You can get these in all kinds of sizes with all kinds of leathers and in a variety of colors.

But regardless of which specifics you pick, you’ll get American-made quality!

I got my first Moneymaker years ago. That was a dual camera harness. Then I picked up the MoneyMaker Solo which is a single camera system that’s every bit as beautiful and functional as the original Moneymaker, as I describe in my review video below:

There’s a reason why these camera straps have worked so well for me...they are built like tanks and will do everything I need them to do no matter where I am or what I’m shooting.

Besides, leather raises the value of the gift...the sights and smells associated with leather immediately tell the person opening the gift that you went all out!

The Moneymaker Solo is $175 and the Moneymaker Harness starts at $230, so both are reasonably priced for gear that will last for years and years to come.

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker and MoneyMaker Solo

Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers: Leatherman Skeletool CX

Last but not least, if you have a photographer on your holiday shopping list, a gift like the Leatherman Skeletool CX will be most appreciated.

My wife gave this to me last year, and it’s on this list because it has become one of my most-used tools by far.

This thing is beautifully made and incredibly versatile, so I can use it when I need a knife, pliers, wire cutters, a bit driver, or even a bottle opener.

You can also use it one-handed, which is a huge benefit when you’re out shooting or adventuring and you only have one hand to spare.

This sucker is lightweight, ready to work, and guaranteed for 25 years. Plus, it’s budget-friendly at $80!

Learn more about the Leatherman Skeletool CX

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^{Photo by HRAUN via iStock}

To be fair, there's thousands of things to photograph in Iceland. Perhaps even more!

It is a country whose size is not indicative of the breadth of its beauty. There seems to be something spectacular and otherworldly in every corner of this tiny island nation.

But, as these types of lists often require, I'm limited to just ten things to photograph in Iceland. See my picks below, in no particular order.

Reynisfjara Beach

^{Photo by demerzel21 via iStock}

Reynisfjara Beach has a couple of claims to fame...

First, it's a black sand beach, and perhaps the most famous beach in all of Iceland. The beach is located near the quaint village of Vik, which is worthy of a visit too.

Second, the beach is home to spectacular basalt columns. The columns look like huge stones that giants from a long-ago civilization placed along the shore.

Just be careful when you're visiting the beach to photograph the columns. This area is famous for big waves that sneak up on you, and at high tide, the columns might not even be accessible. Plan ahead, make sure you're there at low tide, and always have someone with you to keep watch for big waves coming ashore.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

^{Photo by DieterMeyrl via iStock}

Chances are if you Google "what to photograph in Iceland," Seljalandsfoss waterfall will be at the top of the list.

To say that this waterfall - which is located about 75 miles southeast of Reykjavik - is breathtaking is a major understatement. It is one of the best-known Iceland waterfalls.

This waterfall offers loads of opportunities for photos from many different vantage points. But the best one is likely from behind the waterfall, because you can look west toward the setting sun. The combination of the waterfall, the rugged landscape beyond, and the setting sun beyond that is stunning.

The mist coming from the waterfall is robust, to say the least, so if you fancy a photo from behind the falls, be sure you have your rain gear on (and protection for your camera too).

Learn More:

• 10 Mesmerizing Photos of Iceland
• Why Every Photographer Needs to Visit Iceland

Kirkjufell

^{Photo by martinhosmart via iStock}

As one of the top locations to photograph in Iceland, Kirkjufell is a major tourist spot. It's about two hours north of Reykjavik on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

This location has it all - a soaring mountain peak, the gorgeous Kirkjufellfoss waterfall, and the weathered Iceland landscape in between.

The mountain itself offers a strong, symmetrical subject to anchor the shot, and depending on when you visit, you might be able to capture the setting sun alongside the mountain. Sunrise is a nice time to visit as well, as the morning rays softly light the scene.

It's also a perfect place to photograph the northern lights!

Editor's Tip: When I head out for a long photography journey, I want a camera bag that's bulletproof and can accommodate a lot of gear. For that, I've got the Nomatic Check-In. This bag has a lightweight polycarbonate shell that'll stand up well to the rigors of airline travel. It has TSA locking zippers, low-profile handles that won't get caught in luggage systems, and it holds up to 78 liters of gear!

Vestrahorn

^{Photo by tunart via iStock}

One of the most interesting mountain peaks in Iceland is Vesturhorn. It's also one of the most complicated Iceland photography hot-spots to find.

Located about 5 miles from the town of Höfn, the mountain is accessible via an unmarked gravel road. It's easy to miss, so pay attention! The struggle to get there is worth it, as you can see in the image above.

The combination of the pointed mountain peaks and the black sand beach below is quite fetching. Visiting in winter when the peaks are covered with snow that contrasts with the black sand beach is especially beautiful.

Adding to the visual appeal of this place is the tufts of green grass that arise out of the black sand. It truly looks like something from the set of a Star Wars movie!

The Blue Lagoon

^{Photo by Damlow via iStock}

Located near Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is another popular area for tourists.

The geothermal hot spring isn't just for soaking, though. The intense blue waters of the lagoon make it a great photo location in Iceland.

As many folks do, you can enter the lagoon and take a selfie as you bask in its warm waters. But, if you don't have time (or don't want to pay to get in), you can also photograph the lagoon from vantage points outside the facility.

The blue water and black lava rock make for a nice color contrast in your photos.

Learn More:

• Pro Tips for Photographing Iceland
• Photos Capture Glowing Ice Walls Deep Underground in Iceland

Svartifoss Waterfall

^{Photo by alexeys via iStock}

Though Svartifoss might not be the best-known waterfall in Iceland, it is certainly worth a trip to see it.

Located in the massive Vatnajökull National Park on the island's eastern side, Svartifoss is surrounded by beautiful dark lava columns. In fact, these columns gave the falls its name - Svartifoss means "black falls."

The falls is an easy 30-minute hike from the park's visitor center. The walk there is beautiful and the scenery at the falls is worth the time and effort to hike up there.

Try to plan your visit in the early morning. You'll miss the big crowds of later in the day and the golden hour lighting is tough to beat!

Editor's Tip: Traveling to Iceland requires that you bring enough clothing and other personal items for a multiple-day stay. After all, you can't appreciate Iceland's beauty on a quick trip! The Nomatic Check-In is the ideal bag for a multi-day adventure. It has a customizable folding compression panel to maximize interior space. It also has a full perimeter expansion zipper that gets you 12 liters of additional space. This bag is well-made, perfectly designed, and ultra functional. Just what you want in a travel bag!

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

^{Photo by Uwe Moser via iStock}

While the name of this canyon might be hard for native English speakers to pronounce, what is not difficult to understand is the stunning beauty of this place.

Like many of the other must-photograph locations on our list, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon offers a gorgeous mix of rugged, rocky terrain and breathtaking water features.

Located right next to the highway about an hour east of Vik, you can easily get to the canyon, set up your gear, and start taking photos.

You can photograph the canyon from the base, or you can opt to head up along the edge of the canyon for a view down into it. Either way, you'll be greeted with spectacular scenery that looks like something right out of Game of Thrones!

Sólheimasandur Plane Crash

^{Photo by Kesu01 via iStock}

I'm an aviation guy (I went to pilot school), so a list of things to photograph in Iceland wouldn't be complete if it didn't include the famous Sólheimasandur plane crash site.

Located just off the Ring Road on the far southern edge of the island, the site is home to a crashed U.S. Navy Douglas Super DC-3.

The plane crash landed in November 1973 after experiencing problems in flight. The entire crew survived. The plane survived too - to an extent - and is now one of the top tourist destinations in Iceland.

The combination of the black sand beach against the bright metal of the plane's fuselage makes for a compelling photo. A visit at night during the northern lights will only enhance the beauty of the scene!

Gatklettur Arches

^{Photo by Devilkae via iStock}

The Gatklettur Arches are nearby the town of Arnarstapi on the western coast of Iceland.

The arches present you with many options for excellent photos year-round. This is particularly true when the northern lights are in full force.

As you can see above, one of the arches forms a nearly perfect circle. The other arches over the sea below, creating a symmetrical frame in which to feature the blurry movement of the water.

The arches aren't that far from Kirkjufell, so combine a visit to both locations to save time.

Háifoss Waterfall

^{Photo by Belbaiz via iStock}

When looking for things to photograph in Iceland, Háifoss Waterfall has to be on the list.

This huge waterfall is in the south of Iceland, just outside the village of Selfoss. And while the falls are certainly impressive, the gorge into which the falls empty is equally breathtaking.

This is not a photography location in Iceland for the faint of heart, given the massive drop into the gorge. If you have a fear of heights, you might skip this one!

The waterfall is 400 feet tall and is part of the Fossá River, which literally means Waterfall River. The water plunges past two-million-year-old cliffs as it descends into the gorge, which is surrounded by bright green plant life in the summer.

It's a certain must-see, along with the other locations listed above!

Planning Your Iceland Photography Trip

• Where to stay: Hilton Reykjavik Nordica offers 4-star accommodations in Reykjavik, and depending on the time of year, rooms can be found for around $100. 
• Where to eat: 101 Reykjavik Street Food has a a 4.9-star rating and offers authentic Icelandic cuisine. Klausturkaffi on the island's east coast is a must with a 5-star rating for its fine dining.
• Where to fly into: Keflavik Airport is the largest airport in Reykjavik.
• Where to rent a car: We recommend Hertz as the most reliable car rental option while visiting Iceland. 
  
• Best luggage: For a trip of this length, the Nomatic Check-In roller bag is the ideal choice. It offers polycarbonate construction that stands up to the rigors of travel, silent wheels, low-profile handles, and a three-stage aluminum handle to fit your height. With space for 78 liters of gear, this bag has plenty of room for a 5-day trip or longer.
• Check the weather in Icelandright now

 

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^{photo byzeljkosantrac via iStock}

It was a great year for photography, particularly on the software and gear fronts.

From camera accessories to post-processing software, camera bags to lighting gear, we saw tons of new, updated, and innovative products and services come to market in 2019.

It would be impossible to review everything that rocked the photography world this year, so we’ve done the next best thing and outlined more than a dozen of our favorite updates below. 

Luminar 4

 

I’ve been a big fan of Luminar going back to when it was called Luminar 2018. And when Luminar 3 came out, I got my copy and began enjoying it immediately.

Now Luminar 4 is here, and with a host of improvements and expanded capabilities, it is the best Luminar yet. 

If you’re unfamiliar with Luminar, let me give you a quick overview… 

It’s chock-full of revolutionary tools that help you create better photos, faster.

That’s thanks in large part to artificial intelligence that drives easy-to-use tools that streamline your workflow yet still give you pinpoint control over how your images look.

Joining tools like the Accent AI Filter and the AI Sky Enhancer from Luminar 3 is a suite of new AI-powered tools that take image editing to a whole new level.

For portrait enthusiasts, the AI Skin Enhancer and Portrait Enhancer tools will revolutionize the way photo editing is done.

Using human-aware technology, the AI Skin Enhancer detects all the skin in a photo, smooths it out, removes blemishes, and does so while preserving the texture of the skin, pores, and hair.

It takes just one click to apply the Skin Enhancers edits, and then with a single slider you can adjust its strength for a picture-perfect result.

The AI Portrait Enhancer gives you a host of tools to quickly and easily make detailed changes to portraits, like whitening teeth and eyes, removing dark circles under eyes, and removing red eye, just to name a few. 

In all, the Portrait Enhancer includes twelve revolutionary tools that turn editing portraits into a process that takes a minute or less!

Luminar 4 has some goodies for landscape photographers as well. 

Primary among them is the AI Sky Replacement tool. 

As its name suggests, this tool replaces the sky in your photos automatically - there’s no masking or selections to be made on your part. 

The selection algorithms work so well, in fact, that it knows to exclude leaves, grass, and animals from the sky selection.

Not only that, but this tool relights the entire image, that way the foreground matches the brightness of the new sky.

It’s advancements like this that make Luminar 4 one of the most powerful, easy-to-use editing programs on the planet today.

Need more convincing? Get Luminar 4 today and see for yourself!

Hakutatz Pocket Size RGB+AW LED Light

Gone are the days when you have to lug around huge lights to get the key light or fill light you need for awesome portraits.

Instead, companies like Hakutatz have developed powerful pocket-sized LED lights that give you the power to customize the type of lighting to your specific needs.

This particular light has RGB, amber, and white LEDs, so you can add accent colors to your photos and videos or dial in the ideal white balance by using the amber or white lights.

This light is completely adjustable, with controls for saturation, brightness, and color temperature. Better still, you can adjust the light’s settings via a well-designed and user-friendly smartphone app.

That means that with a simple touch or a swipe of your finger, you can fine-tune everything from the RGB color to special effects. You can even control multiple lights at the same time right from the app. No wonder their Kickstarter campaign was such a huge success!

Hakutatz literally puts the power to dial in complex lighting schemes in the palm of your hand, and does so in a way that’s clean, simple, and super functional. That’s by this little light rocked the photography world in 2019!

Be on the lookout for Hakutatz’ online store to have these lights in stock in December!

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

Hazard 4® Cyclone™

Framing shots with your action cam in direct sun can be frustrating; glare in your eyes and the camera’s tiny, reflective screen are really fatiguing. Blowing sand, water or snow don’t help. But the best action is shot outside - Cyclone™ is the first real solution.

This patent-pending optic blocks the sun, but it’s lens also magnifies the screen and protects it. You effectively add mirrorless camera style composition and review to your tiny affordable GoPro or DJI action cam that survive where real mirrorless can’t. Better still, the viewfinder mounts to your action cam’s bottom screw in seconds, so there is no fumbling. But you’ll probably choose to keep it on since this little guy doubles as a tiltable handle - keeping fingers out of frame and for extension. With cheap additional hardware you can even head mount it for hands-free composition while biking, paragliding etc, and it tilts out of the way at will. 

The simple, waterproof, tough, design accordions flat for easy portability and flattened can be a selfie mini tripod. It has diopter focus - even helping out ageing eyes. The high-vis cap self closes to protect the lens. And you get a tether loop action cams don’t include.

Hazard 4® has a reputation for innovating outdoor photo accessories; the Cyclone™ is no exception. As usual they have gone above and beyond to design a multi-functional, easy to use bombproof solution to a common video shooter problem. Perhaps this may push GoPro® or DJI® to finally up the resolution on their LCD’s under magnification and drive the mirrorless wars into the action cam space. Either way, you don’t have to rely on the wide angle lens for your framing anymore- you can actually compose like a pro.

This device is currently on Kickstarter, with a fund date of January 7, 2020. Head over to Kickstarter now to learn more about this device.

The Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon

Billed as a “functional camera pack for all types of travelers,” the Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon is certainly worthy of inclusion on this list. 

The Kickstarter campaign to fund this pack had a goal of $100,000. It raised nearly $2.3 million. That speaks to the reputation of Nomatic and Peter McKinnon! 

This bag is ridiculously well designed and has a functionality level that’s off the charts.

It’s designed to cure the woes of travel photographers who have to have one bag for their gear and another bag for their personal items.

The Camera Pack solves this problem by having a clothing side and a gear side which are separated by an interior panel. This keeps everything neat and tidy so you aren’t rifling through the entire back when you need something. 

Better still, the bag has a “Cube Pack” inside, which serves as the ideal organizational module within the interior ecosystem. However, as the gif below shows, the Cube Pack converts to a daypack, so if you need to run and gun a little, you don’t have to take the larger Camera Pack with you. Ingenious!

Overall, the Camera Pack can hold 35 liters of gear, but can be expanded to accommodate up to 42 liters of gear. That’s a lot of stuff! And with a full clamshell opening, you can see all the gear you’ve stowed away with ease. 

And everything is neatly organized thanks to a main camera compartment with moveable interior dividers. There’s a sleeve for your tablet, pockets for your camera accessories, and quick side access for easy retrieval of gear, too.

 

On the clothing side, there’s compression cubes for your clothes, compression straps to keep everything where it should be, and more pockets for smaller items.

This is just a really well designed and impeccably built backpack. And with the input of a photography expert like Peter McKinnon, you know that it’s been designed with photography needs in mind. 

Learn more about the Camera Pack by Nomatic and Peter McKinnon

GearFocus.com

 

If you buy and sell your used photography gear on places like Craigslist, you’re doing it all wrong. 

That’s because there are much better alternatives that take the hassle out of buying and selling used gear. GearFocus.com is certainly one of the best.

One of the top reasons GearFocus makes our list of the Top Software and Gear Updates is because they focused on building a community where people like you and I can buy quality used gear and get fair market value for stuff we sell.

Unlike other used gear sites, GearFocus doesn’t take a giant chunk of your profits when you sell your gear. Instead, they offer the lowest seller fees among B2C and C2C marketplaces, which means more money in your pocket when your item sells.

Additionally, GearFocus ensures each transaction is safe and secure by screening and monitoring every single post and transaction. Gear Focus was made by creatives, for creatives and they’ve been in this business long enough to be able to spot suspicious listings and red flags from a mile away. Without scammers creating fake listings, the buying and selling experience is enhanced so you can get the best deal on used gear and the most money for the items you sell.

Heck, they’ll even intervene on your behalf if something goes wrong! Having that kind of peace of mind alone is enough to land these guys on this list!

It’s not often that you find companies like this that prioritize community building and supporting one another over making a buck. That focus on customer service is just the icing on the cake for patrons of GearFocus. They are here to help FEED YOUR PASSION! 

Learn more about GearFocus.com

Litra Studio 

To say that the Litra Studio is powerful is an understatement. 

Weighing in at just 33.5 ounces and measuring 5.5" x 3.9" x 2.9", the Litra Studio is certainly easily transported without taking up a ton of space in your camera bag.

But don’t let its small size fool you - this light can produce over one million unique colors that will help you light up your portraits and videos.

The Litra Studio can produce up to 3,000 lumens of continuous light and up to 6,00 lumens of flash. In CCT mode, you get 2,000-10,00K adjustable bi-color lighting with green and magenta color shift controls to allow for tunable blue and green screen optimization.

On top of that, this light is fully tunable and dimmable, and offers CCT, HSI, RGBWW, gel presets, flash modes, and effects, too.

The light it produces is clean and flicker-free at all shutter angles. The CRI and TLCI of 97 speak to its impeccable color accuracy.

Litra even made sure this light is rugged and durable. It’s waterproof, has highly efficient passive thermal management, and offers up to 20 hours of battery life on the low setting.

That makes this a go-anywhere, do-anything light that made huge waves in the photography world this year.

Learn more about the Litra Studio

GoPro HERO 8

While the GoPro HERO 8 doesn’t boast any major updates, it does represent a culmination of a wide range of smaller updates that, taken together, make it the best GoPro thus far.

In fact, I’d say this is the most innovative and user-friendly GoPro yet. 

It has built-in mounting pins so you can directly mount the camera to accessories rather than needing a frame to do so.

There are built-in digital lenses for multiple field of view settings from Narrow and Wide to Linear and Superview. The camera’s physical lens cover is not not removable and it twice as strong as those found in older models.

Also on the ease-of-use front are numerous capture presets that allow you to create and save popular types of videos. SuperPhoto, which is GoPro’s version of HDR, gets a refresh that results in improved image quality as well. 

The GoPro HERO 7 debuted incredible image stabilization with HyperSmooth, and the HERO 8 builds on that with even better results with HyperSmooth 2.0.

The HERO 8 also gets upgraded TimeWarp features, including an auto mode that uses sensor to detect motion and adjust the recording speed accordingly.

The camera also has improved photo-taking capabilities with face detection, smile detection, and blink detection functions, as well as LiveBurst mode for taking 1.5-second-long images before and after the shutter button is depressed. 

Add in built-in GPS, motion sensors, live streaming capabilities at 1080p, 4K video at 60fps, and a host of mod accessories to expand the camera’s capabilities, and it’s no wonder that this rig set the photography world on fire in 2019! 

Learn more about the GoPro HERO 8

Aputure 120D II

As far as studio lights go, it’s tough to beat the quality lights that Aputure puts out. 

And at the top of their lineup is the 120d II, a light I reviewed earlier this year and was very impressed with.

This light is 1000-watt tungsten equivalent, so you get plenty of brightness for your studio work. It’s fully dimmable, too, and has a CRI and TLCI of 97+. That kind of quality light is a must-have for discerning photographers. 

Aputure also included a variety of built-in lighting effects so you can dial in custom looks for your images. With this light, there’s nothing stopping your creativity!

But what’s really impressive about the 120d II is what’s “behind the scenes.”

It has an integrated power and control box, which keeps clutter to a minimum in the studio. Any studio photographer will appreciate that!

What’s more, it has an 18dB quiet fan, which keeps that annoying “whooshing” sound to a minimum so you can concentrate more thoroughly on getting killer shots.

Add in the fact that this light is 25 percent brighter than its predecessor and that it has DMX controls, a wireless remote, and excellent portability, and you have the makings of a top light for your photography studio. 

Learn more about the Aputure 120d II

Exposure X5

Exposure X5 is yet another software update that sent shockwaves through the photography world in 2019.

Its predecessor, Exposure X4, was highly functional, user-friendly, and super powerful, so it was hard to imagine how the folks at Exposure could make X5 better. But they did.

For starters, Exposure X5 has custom camera profiles that allow you to control how the software interprets color from RAW files. These profiles (created by X-Rite, among others) can be applied automatically by matching the serial number of your camera or by using the camera model. Furthermore, these profiles can be matched to a specific lens or ISO range.

You get advanced chromatic aberration correction in X5 too. This allows you to remove unwanted artifacts using lens profiles, or you can remove them by making manual adjustments if you prefer. 

There’s also a new fringe removal tool, so X5 makes getting rid of chromatic aberrations easier than ever before.

There are a host of other new features too.

Exposure X5 includes new complementary color presets, new season-inspired looks, and new light and airy presets that give you expanded creative potential when editing your photos.

There are more black and white film options than ever before, support for grayscale TIFF and JPEG images, and new image flip options too. Exposure X5 also has multiple language options, including English, German, and French. 

But for me, the best new feature in Exposure X5 is 3D color masking.

Basically, you can use this tool to make incredibly precise selections for applying adjustments to your photos. You can see it at work in the video above. 

This fine level of control is made possible by using specific color characteristics (hue, saturation, and luminance) to define the adjustment areas.

What this means is that you can quickly and easily target specific areas for color masking, like the sky in a landscape photo or skin tones in a portrait. This is all done with just a few clicks.

Exposure X5 is powerful, easy to use, and incorporates tons of new features that make it the best Exposure software to date. If you’ve never tried exposure, give it a test-drive for free. 

Learn more about Exposure X5

Holdfast Tanker Belt

I’ve been a Holdfast customer for a long time, and what initially drew me to them was the absolutely outstanding build quality of their products.

They use only the finest materials - things like full-grain leather and stainless steel - so when you buy a camera strap or harness or bag, you get something that is durable and will last you for years. 

But as the years have gone by, I’ve come to appreciate more and more the sheer innovation that these guys display when developing new products. That being the case, I had to include Holdfast on this list of the best gear updates of the year.

One of Holdfast’s latest products is the Tanker Belt, which changes the way you carry your gear.

It’s actually two belts in one, the first of which cinches around your waist like a normal belt and the second, outer belt, which forms loops for attaching your gear.

This ingenious design means the belt stays put (as do your pants) while maximizing the amount of gear you can carry around your waist.

There are three D-rings on the belt for attaching things like your keys or a wallet, and the D-rings are moveable, so you can customize precisely where your items hang on your waist. 

And, as you’d expect with Holdfast, this belt looks and feels like a million bucks - it's gorgeous handmade leather is something to behold! 

Better still, the Tanker Belt was designed with functionality in mind, so it’s compatible with a wide range of Holdfast products.

You can attach the Ranger Leash to the belt and take Fido for a hands-free walk, or you can add a cell phone pouch and keep your smartphone safe and secure and out of the elements.

Add a lens pouch or two (small, medium, or large) so you have extra glass for your next shoot too!

With sizes from 28-inches up to 44-inches and multiple colors (black, tan, chestnut, and burgandy), you can customize the Tanker Belt to your specific needs and tastes. 

Learn more about the Holdfast Tanker Belt

Panasonic 10-25mm f/1.7 Lens

I picked up a Panasonic GH5 earlier this year, and it quickly won me over with its astonishing video capabilities.

It wasn’t until recently, though, that I got to test out the Panasonic 10-25mm f/1.7 lens, and I have to say, I wish I would’ve gotten my hands on it a lot sooner! This is a fantastic lens, to say the least.

You can get some of my thoughts on this lens in the video above, but I want to expound on its features a little bit more. 

Make no mistake - this is a gigantic lens, especially for a micro four-thirds camera. Fortunately, it’s not hard to handle at all, and despite its footprint, it’s actually not all that heavy.

But it’s massive size means that Panasonic was able to cram lots of goodies inside to help you get superb images.

This lens is supremely sharp, beautifully responsive, and gets you clean, crisp images each and every time. Its bokeh is buttery smooth and there’s wonderful brightness throughout its aperture range.

It has 17 elements in 12 groups, including three aspherical lenses and four extra-low dispersion elements which work to all but eliminate spherical aberration, distortion, and chromatic aberration. The result is images with impressive quality. 

But where this lens was a game-changer in 2019 was in its video capabilities…

It’s compatible with up to 240fps high-speed sensor drives and offers silent operation thanks to the inner focus drive system and the de-clicked aperture ring.

The focus clutch is a nice touch as well, as it enables instant switching between autofocus and manual focus as well as improved accuracy when manually focusing.

With next to zero focus breathing, a micro-step drive system that accommodates brightness changes when panning and zooming, and Leica build quality, this lens certainly doesn’t disappoint! 

Learn more about the Panasonic 10-25mm f/1.7 lens

Sony a7R IV

When the Sony a7R IV was announced earlier this year, it set the internet on fire with news of its massive 61-megapixel sensor. And while the sensor is impressive, it’s just the beginning of the impressive specs of this camera.

Paired with a BIONZ X image processor, the a7R IV’s back-illuminated sensor is capable of rendering images that are beautifully crisp.

You get an eyeful of all that beauty with the brand-new UXGA OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder, which has a whopping 5.76-million dots of resolution for a clean, bright, detailed look at what you’ve framed up in the shot.

This camera has a native ISO range of 100-32000 for low-light shooting, and with 15-stops of dynamic range rendering, you’ll have no problem getting tons of details in the shadows and the highlights. 

Of course, the a7R IV carries on the Sony tradition of excellent autofocusing, with an ultra-fast hybrid AF system that has 567 phase-detect AF points to give you quick and accurate autofocus tracking. 

Throw in UHD 4K video at 30p, Real-Time Eye AF tracking, 10fps shooting, and a bevy of other features, and you can see why the Sony a7R IV was one of the best gear updates of 2019.

Learn more about the Sony a7R IV

Haida M10 Filter System

The Haida M10 filter system is something I’ve been testing as of late, and I have to say that I’m impressed with this system.

Like the other products and services on this list, I’ve found numerous innovative and unique features that compelled me to include this product on this list.

Haida is a great value for the money with well-built components that show an attention to quality and detail that many filter companies just can’t match.

I have multiple components in my kit - the M10 filter holder, a circular polarizer, a couple of solid ND filters, and a soft-edge grad (shown above) - but you can also buy complete kits of varying sizes, including their Master Filter Kit, their Professional Kit, and their Enthusiast Kit, if you’d rather go that route. 

Either way, I think you’ll find, as I have, that the Haida system is one that enhances your ability to get quality shots.

The aluminum alloy filter holder can accommodate two 100mm filters, but it can expand to include a third slot if needed. The Haida filters are made of shock-resistant optical glass and features 10 layers of anti-reflective nano coating and 10 layers of scratch and water resistant coatings.

The holder rotates a full 360-degrees, which is enormously helpful for getting just the right positioning when using graduated ND filters.

I also like the fact that Haida incorporated gaskets in the filter slots to help prevent light leaks. They even include a “dummy” filter housing that can be dropped into the filter if you’re shooting without the circular polarizer in place. Again, this helps prevent light leaks so you get a cleaner exposure. 

The pinch and pull system for adding and removing filters make using this system super easy, as do the rounded edges of the rectangular filters - they’re much easier to slide into the filter holder without sharp edges.

This is just a well thought out system for beginners and enthusiasts alike!

Learn more about the Haida M10 filter system

Sony a6600

Though the Sony a7R IV probably got more attention, the Sony a6600 is certainly not something to forget about…

With a much smaller price tag than the a7R IV and more applicability for more photographers, the a6600 rocked our world this year by bringing many flagship features to a mid-range camera.

Its 24.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor is ideal for capturing beautifully resolute images while the native ISO range of 100-32000 gives you excellent low-light shooting capabilities with reduced noise.

As I get more into video creation, I appreciate the fact that this camera sports UHD 4K video capabilities that can be internally recorded in XAVC S format.

The five-axis image stabilization is a dream, giving you five full stops of stabilization, while the weather-sealed construction means you can head out in adverse weather with less worry about what will happen to your camera.

With additional features like a beautiful XGA OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder, a tiltable LCD monitor, 11 fps continuous shooting, and much more, this camera is certainly worthy of the title of gear that rocked 2019!

Learn more about the Sony a6600

RODE Wireless GO 

A final product I wanted to mention on this list of the top software and gear updates is this handy little guy, the RODE Wireless GO.

This wireless system automatically pairs in just three seconds and transmits via RODE’s new Series III digital transmission system. It’s a 2.4GHz system that’s optimized for short-range operation, particularly in environments in which there is a lot of RF and Wi-Fi interference. It also offers line-of-sight range of up to 70 meters.

You also get broadcast-grade audio thanks to the built-in condenser mic’s superb isolation and transparency. Alternatively, you can use it with a lavalier mic using the 3.5mm TRS input.

Additionally, the Wireless GO system operates up to seven hours on a full charge, and since the unit is so small and compact, it’s super lightweight and portable. 

You can even use up to eight systems in one location if you have the need!

If you’ve ever used a ROD mic before, you know they’re some of the best in the business. The RODE Wireless GO is certainly no exception!

Learn more about the RODE Wireless GO

 

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 ^{photo byvalio84sl via iStock}

A graduated ND filter, also called GND or graduated neutral density filters, are handy tools for making better landscape images and other types of photos. If you have looked at them and wondered when to use a graduated ND filter and what the different types do, please keep reading.

Graduated ND filters for landscapes are found in three main styles: Hard-Edge Graduated ND, Soft-Edge Graduated ND, and Reverse Graduated ND filters. We’ll cover what the differences are and in what situations each type helps.

Soft-Edge Graduated ND Filter

 ^{photo byIgnacio Ruiz Casanellas via iStock}

This is  probably the graduated ND filter I end up using the most often primarily because it is very simple to employ and there are so many situations in which to use one. All graduated ND filters are dark in part and clear in the other, it’s the transition area that changes among the 3 types.

A soft-edge graduated ND filter has a very gradual transition from clear to dark, making the placement of the filter a simple thing. Take a look at the image above to how gradual the transition is.

I use a lot of Haida M10 Filters from Ikan Corp in my landscape photography work as they are high quality and have beneficial features. You use the filters in a filter holder which can hold several filters at once. 

The graduated ND filters are rectangular instead of square or round so that you can adjust their position in the holder as needed and the holder can spin around the axis of the lens, too so your placement of light to dark can be precise.

When do we use a graduated ND filter with a soft-edge transition? Any time we have a scene with a large dynamic range that we want to balance out in exposure, we can block out some light intensity from one part of it.  

A scene with a bright sky and relatively foreground is one example that springs to mind. When there isn’t an element within the image with a distinct boundary between light and dark, a soft-edge ND filter is the answer. 

This can apply to more than landscape photography, cityscapes, architectural, even product photography might benefit. Remember also, the transition area for any graduated ND filter doesn’t have to be a horizontal line. It can be in the vertical plane or even diagonal.

Hard-Edge Graduated ND Filter

Any time the transition in the scene from light to dark is narrow or perhaps a line is when to use a graduated ND filter with a similarly narrow transition. These are labeled hard-edge graduated ND filters. By the way, there are also medium-edge ND filters, but I find them not as useful as either hard or soft. You might find that you prefer the medium-edge, though.

All of what we discussed about soft-edge graduated ND filters applies to hard-edge filters except for the placement of the transition line. With a hard-edge graduated ND filter, a straight line such as a horizon, a wall, a shoreline, a building edge, and so on is the prime spot for where to place the transition.  

Remember, it can be horizontal or vertical, but it’s probably more likely to be a horizontal line. Using the graduated ND filters in a filter holder system makes it a simple operation for exact placement since you can spin the filter holder around and slide the filter from side to side or up and down.

As just one example of when to use a graduated ND with a hard-edge transition is an ocean or lake scene with beautiful clouds in a relatively bright sky. In order to keep detail within the cloud formations while not underexposing the foreground or anything else that’s not bright sky, we place the ND part over the sky with the clear part underneath and the transition line on the horizon.

LearnMore:

• What Is a Camera Cage?
• Types of Tripod Heads
• 5 Landscape Photography Accessories You Need In Your Bag

Editor's Tip: Carry your filters (and all your other gear) in complete organization and style in the new Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Everyday Backpack and Sling. These bags are true to form for Nomatic - they're impeccably designed, durable, and the height of functionality. From weather-resistant exterior materials to loads of storage and organization solutions inside to an incredibly comfortable carrying experience, these bags are precisely what you're looking for to accompany you on your landscape photography adventures. Check them out on Kickstarter to get all the specs and details!

Reverse Graduated ND Filters

I have found the perfect use for when to use a graduated ND filter with the variation from light to dark reversed, sunset and sunrise. As a disclaimer, I didn’t invent that use, I read it in a photography blog years ago and quickly put it into practice myself.

If you look closely at the image of the reverse graduated ND filter above, you will notice that the transition from clear to density is a hard edge but it’s different from other hard-edge ND filters in that the darkest density is right at the transition and then it gradually lightens towards the outer edge.

This is perfect for a sunset or sunrise with a sky above the Sun full of beautiful colors or those colors in clouds above the Sun. In order to capture those colors without washing out the exposure and still get detail in whatever is on the ground or ocean, we need to subject light value selectively by using a reverse graduated ND filter.

There is an even more extreme type of filter for sunrise and sunset or other similar lighting conditions, the horizon ND filter. This filter is probably a little too much specialty use for most of our photography that needs a graduated ND filter, but when you do run into that specific situation, it is probably the only filter that will do exactly what we want to accomplish.

Filter Holder Systems

The best way to make use of any of these graduated ND filters is in a filter holder system. A system like the Haida M10 professional filters we've been highlighting allows for the most versatility of exact filter placement. 

A filter holder system consists of a holder with adapter rings to mount to various size lens diameters and round, square, and rectangular filters that can fit in the holder, often several at once. This lets you use a C-POL filter along with a GND, for instance, when capturing that mountain scene or sunset at the beach. 

A filter holder system also makes sense for using professional filters since you only need to buy one size of each type of filter because the adapters let you use them on all your lenses. So instead of investing double or triple purchase for each lens, you can make the most of your filter budget. 

These filter holder systems with full ND filters are also perfect for 4K video since we can have more control over the rolling shutter and lens apertures to capture exactly what we want to capture.  

Once we have these filters, we will find many ways to use them in all sorts of photographic and videography situations.

Learn More:

• My Ideal Landscape Photography Kit
• How To Shoot Quality Video Footage
• Awesome Camera Accessories

 

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