^{photo byAaronAmat via iStock}

Photography mistakes are inevitable. We are all at a different point in our photography journey and part of that journey includes making beginner photography mistakes.

Some photography mistakes aren’t even reserved just for beginners. For example, I make camera gear mistakes every other week, it seems. 

But some photography mistakes can be avoided with a little bit of planning and a lot of forethought. 

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

Allowing Dust Into Your Sensor

 ^{photo bycullenphotos via iStock}

Of all the photography mistakes you can make, allowing dust into your sensor is the most painful one for me. Primarily because learning how to clean dust out of your sensor is a process, but also because this mistake is so avoidable. 

When you’re out during a shoot, minimize how often you change your lens. Either change your lens at home before you leave, or find an indoor space where you can change your lens. 

This is especially true of travel photographers or landscape photographers. Inclement weather means lots of dust particles are blowing around outside all the time. When you change your camera lens here, you pretty much ensure you’re going to end up with trapped dust in your sensor.

If you absolutely can’t find a safe space to change your lens out, then hold your camera upside down while you change lenses outdoors. This way you can use gravity (and a blower, which you should have in your camera bag) to clean any dust out of your sensor before it gets trapped.

And if you inevitably end up with dust in your sensor anyways, save yourself the trouble and the money of a professional clean and let Nigel Danson teach you how to do it yourself. 

Learn More:

• Surefire Ways to Keep Track of Your Photography Gear 
• Why This is the Best Leather Camera Bag on the Market 

Not Using Good Filters

One of the worst mistakes you can make is to use bargain-basement, no-name filters for your photos.

After all, what's the point of investing in a good lens (which you should definitely do...) and then putting a junk filter in front of it?

Good filter systems can be spendy, but they're certainly worth it, just like your upgraded lens.

The PolarPro Summit series is a particular favorite of mine because it shows a dedication to innovation and build quality that many lesser filter systems lack.

To begin, the Summit landscape filter kit has everything you need to get started:

• Filter holder
• Circular polarizer
• An ND64 solid ND filter
• An ND4 soft-edge grad filter
• Lens hood
• Thread plates
• Carry case

Additionally, you'll find that the included filters are super high quality.

For example, the circular polarizer is made of fused Quartz glass with 16 layers of coatings that reduce glare while improving clarity and color.

Likewise, the ND filters have the same Quartz construction and coatings, but also have aluminum frames that help protect the filter while minimizing fingerprints too.

These filters have been field tested by some of the top landscape photographers in the world, and the consensus is that they are rock-solid, easy to use, and help you produce much-improved images.

What's not to like about that?!

Not Displaying Your Photos

If you take the time and effort to go out and shoot photos, you need to display your favorite ones, right?

Yet many beginner photographers that I speak with tell me that they often don't print out their photos. That's a shame, because having your photos on the wall to enjoy is a critical part of photography!

Now, I'm not saying that you need to have a gigantic, expensive print made of every photo you love. That would be cost prohibitive (and who has that much wall space?!).

Instead, do something fun and unique like using photo tiles to display multiple images.

I particularly like Snaptiles photo tiles because they're so easy to install.

Literally, all you do is adhere an anchor tile to the wall using four adhesive strips, and then you can add up to 12 photo tiles to the display without any other anchors or holes in the wall.

That's because Snaptiles connect to one another using rare earth magnets. So not only does this spare your walls, but it also makes arranging the photo tiles extremely easy!

You can create displays in just about any shape you want, so you can let your imagination run wild. And when you're tired of the current arrangement, just unsnap the tiles, make a new arrangement of images, and enjoy!

If you want to create a display of up to 30 Snaptiles photo tiles, all you need are the four included thumbtacks to add additional support. The tiny pinholes in the wall are a small price to pay for having the ability to enjoy that many of your favorite shots.

Besides, Snaptiles are super affordable, so you can rock out your photo display without your wallet screaming at you.

See how Snaptiles photo tiles work and order yours today right here. 

Buying a Cheap Camera Bag

^{Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash} 

There are plenty of silly photography mistakes out there, but using a bad, cheap camera bag is one of the deadliest photography mistakes. 

Poor quality camera bags will eventually ruin your equipment, either because they aren’t waterproof, or the lining isn’t thick enough so you could end up scratching your lenses or camera bodies. 

They also get beat up quite quickly and will make you look less professional than if you had purchased a quality camera bag in the first place.

Instead of purchasing a bag you’ll need to replace in a few months, consider purchasing HoldFast’s Explorer Streetwise Bag. 

This bag is built for street photographers because you can’t initially peg it as a camera bag, it just looks like a nice bag. 

 It’s small enough to keep your camera gear out of the way while you aren’t using it, but comfortable enough to grab it within a moment’s notice. 

 Plus, you can keep your camera on the shoulder strap, which features a camera slider, while simultaneously keeping the bag easily accessible so you can grab accessories as needed.

It’s the perfect day bag, and while the initial investment is more, this camera bag features a lifetime warranty. You buy it once and never again need to worry about whether or not your camera gear is being protected.  

It’s also padded with a sheepskin interior, so you know your mirrorless camera, three lenses, and flash (the bag’s capacity) all remain in place.

Find more information on it here, and release yourself from the trials and tribulations of using cheap, uncomfortable bags!

Bonus: Not Keeping a Journal 

^{Photo by Hannah Olinger on Unsplash} 

Think back to the last incredible photoshoot you had. Are you able to emulate those photographs? Could you go back and do everything in the exact same way? 

When you have an amazing photography day, it’s a huge photography mistake to not record exactly what you did. Take five minutes at the end of the shoot to record what settings you were using. 

While it’s fine to have these notes in a traditional journal, you’ll also want to make sure you know which notes should go with which photographs.  

This helps you learn your camera better, so you have less camera gear mistakes, and it helps you to continuously fulfill client needs if they love the look of one particular thing you did. 

Learn More:

• You’re Carrying Your Camera All Wrong 
• Random But Helpful Photography Tips for Beginners 

 

 

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^{photo byDenisTangneyJr via iStock}

Ah, fall. It’s upon us once again, which means it’s time to do another fall foliage photography tips list. 

Fall is the moodiest season, which is why it’s my favorite season. It’s just cool enough outside to be able to shoot all day. People are starting to think about holiday cards, which means you are probably facing a serious influx of clients. 

 Fall, I’d argue, is the best season for photography. 

 With that in mind, use the tips I’ve outlined below to make the most of your fall foliage photography outings!

 Fall Photography Tip #1: Look Down

^{Photo by Nathan Anderson on Unsplash} 

While you should always be paying attention to your surroundings as a photographer, this tip goes a little beyond that.

Look down while you’re hiking to and from your final shoot location.

If the waterfall in the image above is your desired subject, look around it for opportunities to feature it in unique ways.

In this case, the rocks below the surface of the water, the boulders protruding from the stream, and the leaves draped across the rocks add lots of visual interest to the shot.  

By looking down, this photographer found foreground elements to enhance their photo.

^{Photo by Cecile Vedemil on Unsplash} 

Of course, you can also use leaves you find on the ground to serve as your primary subject.

Pick up the brightest, most colorful leaves along your route so that when you finally reach your shooting destination you can strategically add color to your shots.

 As shown above, these leaves not only have beautiful color but interesting shapes as well. Their veins offer interesting texture too.

Fall Photography Tip #2: Create a Mirrored Effect

photo by DenisTangneyJr via iStock 

Nothing screams autumn like pumpkin spice lattes, corn mazes, and photos of fall foliage reflected in a lake.

But, not all fall foliage photography tips are the same and this one requires the perfect weather conditions, specifically as it pertains to the wind.

You can shoot incredible mirror like fall photos if it’s sunny or cloudy, foggy or clear.

But even a light breeze can turn calm, mirror like waters into a mess…

photo by DenisTangneyJr via iStock 

What’s more, people fishing or canoeing can disturb the calmness of the water.

One way you can improve your chances of avoiding the wind and combat the crowds at the same time is to hit your location at sunrise. The lighting will be moodier and the lake will be less crowded.  

You can also keep creating a mirrored effect long into the winter season. A lake reflecting bare trees is just as beautiful as one reflecting bright autumn leaves. 

Learn More:

• Landscape Photography Tips for Bad Weather 
• Spring Flower Photography Tips 

Fall Photography Tip #3: Use Filters to Your Advantage

When you head out to shoot photos this fall, you want to be able to focus on your compositions, not on fiddling with your filters.

That means you need high-quality filters that make the process of using them a simpler task. That's something PolarPro specializes in...

Their new Summit series filters have tons of features that streamline the process of creating gorgeous photos of fall colors.

This system has an integrated circular polarizer slot that has easy-access control for manipulating the filter.

What's more, the Summit system has tool-free mounting options, a tool-less rail mount, and a snap-on hood attachment that make using this system a breeze.

PolarPro has made the Summit system super lightweight, too, so you don't have to carry a big, heavy, bulky set of filters around with you as you move from one location to the next.

It helps that each filter has an aluminum frame, as that reduces fingerprints on the filter glass while also maximizing protection for the filter. That means you'll spend more time shooting and less time cleaning your filters. Who doesn't want that?!

And since these filters are available in 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, 82mm, and 95mm, you can find the right size for your specific needs.

If you're a landscape photographer and you don't have a good set of filters, the PolarPro Summit system is an excellent option for your adventures this fall.

Fall Photography Tip #4: Go Abstract 

^{photo byshahfarshid via iStock}

No season is better for creative, abstract photography than autumn.

The photo above has an abstract-looking background thanks to the shallow depth of field, but the single, lonely leaf is nicely sharp.

This gives you a nice contrast in the image between sharpness and blur to go with the light and dark that’s also going on in the photo.

Another option for an abstract fall photo is to blur the image on purpose.

With such gorgeous colors in abundance, the trees and leaves don’t necessarily have to be sharply in focus to still have an impact.

If you slow down the shutter and learn how to purposefully move your camera while the shutter is open, you can get some truly interesting results. 

See what I mean in the video above by Get Crafty Photographers.

Fall Photography Tip #5: Protect Your Gear From the Elements

 

In my area, the weather in the fall can be quite unpredictable, and I’m assuming the same goes for where you live. That means you need to be prepared for inclement weather.

While you can bring a plastic bag to protect your camera and lens in the rain, they’re just plain difficult to use. You can’t see the camera’s LCD. It’s hard to reach and manipulate the camera’s buttons and dials. And it doesn’t keep the rain off the lens glass. 

What I recommend is purchasing a Camera Canopy, aka the best under $100 camera gadget I’ve ever bought!

The Camera Canopy for your run-of-the-mill DSLR is just $87.99, and their brand new Camera Canopy for mirrorless cameras is even cheaper at $59.99.

It mounts directly to your camera and acts as a shield from all rain, hail, sleet, snow and dust. Which means no more messing with inefficient bad-weather protection.  

Plus, Camera Canopy is a small company. I enjoy buying my camera equipment from small companies because their customer service is always top-notch. 

For example, if you buy a Camera Canopy and are not entirely happy, they offer refunds through your first month of use. You don’t often find deals like that with big gear manufacturers!

I’ve had a Camera Canopy for quite a few months now, and it has been a reliable addition to my camera bag. Even if I’m out in a significant downpour, it works like a charm, keeps my gear dry, and allows me to keep on shooting.

What’s not to like about that?!

So, get ready for fall weather by investing in a Camera Canopy. Combined with the other tips outlined here, you’ll be more likely to capture gorgeous photos of the fall colors!

Learn More:

• Innovative Photography Gadgets 
• Practical Gear Tips for Taking Photos in the Rain 

 

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A few weeks ago, PolarPro sent me their QuickDraw Collection to play around with and test out.

I'll have a complete review of this system coming up in a few weeks, but for now I wanted to share my initial impressions.

And believe me...my initial impressions are very good.

For starters, the QuickDraw collection is the complete package. PolarPro thought of everything here...

There's a quick-release plate that fits into a variety of mounts, including a strap mount that fits the QuickDraw strap (or any number of straps on the market).

There's two QuickDraw camera strap options and a Belay quick-release camera strap mount (shown above)that makes the process of taking your camera off the strap lightning-quick.

PolarPro even included two mini tripod options - one base and one with the base and a ball head - in the collection.

Aside from the sheer size of the collection, the build quality of each component is impressive.

This is nothing new for PolarPro, of course, as they have a reputation in the industry for crafting some of the finest gear on the market.

The QuickDraw Collection is no different. Each component features full metal construction that ensures long-lasting durability and dependability for carrying your gear. The Belay Camera Strap, for example, is rated to carry 50 pounds of gear. That's not bad!

The engineering of these devices is something worth mentioning too.

The speed with which you can release the quick-release plate is impressive. It's one smooth motion to remove the plate from the Traverse Strap Mount and attach it to the Belay Camera Strap or the Apex Minimalist tripod.

You literally just slide the lock mechanism with one hand to release the plate and off you go. PolarPro has ensured safety with a secondary lock, and with the Traverse Strap Mount, that means you can securely carry up to 100 pounds of gear.

Often in the field, the difference between getting the shot and missing it is a split-second. And with this gear, you'll certainly spend less time messing around with it and more time actually taking photos.

Regarding the Apex Tripod, I've found it to be an ideal companion for shooting vlogs.

It's lightweight, yet offers the stability of a professional-grade tripod.

You can completely lock the camera into position by adjust the TiltLock mechanisms, which give you precise adjustments and a virtually endless array of orientations.

You can also easily adjust the camera to face directly forward as you walk and film yourself while holding onto the tripod.

This system is, in a word, badass. Now, bear in mind that this is an initial impression. I haven't had a chance to nitpick my way through it.

But so far, the QuickDraw Collection is very, very good!

Stay tuned for a full review in the coming weeks. In the meantime, check out the video above for more details.

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^{Photo by svetikd via iStock}

This has been a crazy year, and many folks have to seriously tighten their belts. This includes keeping their holiday shopping budget in check.

If you fall into that category and have a photographer on your shopping list, this list of gifts for photographers under $100 is for you!

From camera bags to gift cards to handy gadgets for their camera or lens, we've got awesome gift ideas that won't break the bank!

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: H&Y RevoRing Bundle

One of the most innovative photography gadgets of 2020 is also one of the most inexpensive!

A couple of months ago, H&Y unveiled RevoRing, which is a variable step ring. This is so innovative because it eliminates the need to carry a bunch of individual step rings to make filters and filter systems work with different lenses.

Instead, the photographer on your list can have this set of variable step rings in their camera bag and use it to adapt their filters to a variety of lenses.

This particular set includes 37-49mm, 46-62mm, and 67-82mm options, giving your favorite photographer lots of leeway in terms of which filters they use with which lenses.

It’s dead simple to use too - just twist the RevoRing, attach it to the lens, and it’s ready to rock!

There simply aren’t that many truly innovative photography gifts for under $100, but RevoRing certainly fits the bill.

If you want to surprise your loved one with a gift that is unique, functional, and will legitimately help them improve their photography workflow, look no further than RevoRing!

Learn more about the H&Y RevoRing

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: CanvasHQ Print

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

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

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

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

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. We’re talking archival-grade canvas, commercial-grade inks that are water and UV resistant, and kiln-dried pine frames to keep everything straight and true.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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

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

In the video above, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: ProGrade Digital Dual Slot Card Reader

Photographers today have at their disposal lightning-fast memory cards that can accommodate things like 4K video and huge image files.

But it's not enough to have high-speed cards - you also need a high-speed card reader that makes transferring all those huge files to your computer a quicker task. That's where the ProGrade Digital Dual Slot Card Reader comes in.

With transfer speeds of up to 1.25GB per second, this card reader will make quick work of transferring files. Better yet, you can transfer data from two cards at the same time.

It's also a small and lightweight device, so the photographer on your list can easily take this reader with them on photoshoots or when they travel.

To ensure safety, this card reader has a magnetic base that pairs with a metal plate. Just attach the metal plate to your laptop, connect the reader, and you're ready to go!

This year, give the gift of convenience and help your favorite photographer save some time, too!

Learn more about the ProGrade Digital Dual Slot Card Reader

Gifts for Photographers Under $100:Hex Ranger DSLR Sling Bag 

One of the best gifts you can give the photographer on your list is a new camera bag.

But not all camera bags are made alike...

Honestly, I’m a bit of a camera bag snob, so I look for things that others might skim over.

For instance, I check the stitching inside and out to see how well put together it is, and with this bag, it’s very well put together.

It’s part of the thoughtful construction and design processes that also make this bag an excellent choice for a gift for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

One of the things I like most about the bag is the collapsible interior dividers - including the bottom divider. This gives you a bag that can not only be customized to your gear for each photoshoot, but you can also fold up or remove the dividers to allow the bag to be packed totally flat for travel inside another bag. 

Speaking of customizations, this bag has side adjustable load straps and adjustable bottom carry straps so you can carry even more gear when needed.

This bag is also packed full of pockets to help you keep track of your stuff. There’s a front access organizer for small items, a faux fur lined pocket on the front for your phone or a pair of shades, a faux fur lined pocket for your table, and multiple hidden velcro stash pockets. And the bag sits very well when worn. It’s comfortable and easy to access your gear and really hugs your body.

With genuine Cordura material and YKK zippers with metal pulls, this bag will stand up to use and abuse, too. And since it’s so compact (just 1.3 pounds and 14.5"L x 7.25"W x 4.75"H), you can rock it in the urban jungle without worrying that it’ll be knocking into people as you move from shot to shot.

Something that really stood out to me was that, although the bag is listed at 8 liters, there is no wasted or negative space. In fact, I easily transferred all the gear I would normally carry in my Peak Design 10L Sling into the HEX Ranger Sling. I have to say that I am a big fan of the efficient use of space in this bag and the collapsible potential of the HEX bag certainly gives it a leg up.

With eight liters of storage space, a streamlined design, and looks that don’t quit, this is definitely a gift for photographers that will put a smile on their face!

Learn more about the Hex Ranger DSLR Sling Bag

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: Camera Canopy

If you want a unique, yet functional gift for the photographer in your life, the Camera Canopy is an ideal choice. 

Photographers that spend any time outdoors understand that when it rains, it can really put a damper on their ability to get the photos they want. That’s because even weather-sealed gear isn’t completely water-tight.

And trying to manipulate camera controls with a traditional bag-like rain cover for a camera is a huge pain in the rear. That’s why Camera Canopy is a much better alternative.

Camera canopy attaches to a camera via its hot-shoe mount, and then acts like a roof to protect the camera and lens from rain. It even protects the glass of the lens so there’s no water droplets messing up the shot.

Better still, it’s adjustable for lenses up to 500mm in length, and there’s even a smaller version for mirrorless setups (shown above). Add in a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you’ve got the perfect gift for this holiday season!

Learn more about Camera Canopy and Mini Camera Canopy 

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: PolarPro Belay Quick-Release Camera Strap

PolarPro continues to innovate with products that are smartly designed to maximize functionality for you. The Belay Quick-Release Camera Strap certainly fits the bill.

This strap allows you to carry your camera at your side without limiting your movement. This is possible because of the ergonomic anchor point that's attached to the bottom of the camera. This results in a lower carrying profile than traditional straps.

What's more, this strap has an integrated quick-draw mechanism so you can quickly remove the camera if need be. That's definitely a feature the photographer on your list will be looking for!

The quick-draw mechanism is made of aluminum while the strap is industrial nylon. In other words, the strap is lightweight, yet ultra-strong to give you peace of mind. In fact, this strap is rated to 50 pounds, so it will support even the heaviest of professional camera and lens combinations.

And with a wide 3/4-inch strap, you don't have to worry about your shoulder feeling pinched under the weight of your gear. Instead, the strap distributes the weight for a more comfortable carrying experience.

If you know a photographer that has been itching for a new camera strap, consider this as the ideal gift for them!

Learn more about the PolarPro Belay Quick-Release Camera Strap

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: PolarPro Traverse Strap Mount

If the photographer on your list doesn't need another strap in their collection, the PolarPro Traverse Strap Mount might be a great alternative gift idea.

This is a QuickDraw camera mount, so you can quickly release the camera with a one-handed motion from the mount and start shooting.

When not in use, your camera is securely and comfortably mounted on your backpack, belt, or any other kind of strap.

The Traverse Strap Mount has a secondary locking mechanism which keeps your camera completely secure as you move. Better still, it'll support up to 100 pounds of gear, so even if the photographer on your list has a big, heavy DSLR and long lens, this mount will hold it!

Best of all, it's under $60, so you'll give a great gift without coming close to your $100 budget.

Learn more about the PolarPro Traverse Strap Mount

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: ViewSonic VA2246MH-LED 22 Inch Full HD 1080p LED Monitor

I have a couple of ultra widescreen ViewSonic monitors in my home office, and they have convinced me that ViewSonic is among the best brands of computer monitors.

If you're on a budget, you might consider the ViewSonic VA224MH 22-inch LED monitor as a great gift idea for the photographer on your list.

This widescreen monitor offers a 21.5-inch viewable screen that has an LED backlight. The thin bezel design increases the viewing area while helping maintain the smaller profile of the monitor for smaller work areas.

The monitor offers full 1080p HD resolution and mega dynamic contrast ratio for a clear, sharp, and contrasty display.

There are two integrated speakers, tons of connectivity options, and it's compatible with VESA mounts in case it needs to be mounted on the wall.

Your favorite photographer will also appreciate the flicker-free technology and the blue light filter to ease eye strain on those occasions when there's hours and hours of work to be done.

Learn more about the ViewSonic VA2246MH monitor

Gifts For Photographers Under $100: GoPro Smart Remote

There are few cameras that are as versatile as the GoPro Hero 8 Black, but with the GoPro Smart Remote, you can make it even more versatile.

This remote gives you total control over the camera, including the shutter, camera settings, and turning the camera on and off.

You get long-range control as well - up to 600 feet if the conditions are just right.

The GoPro Smart Remote also enables control of up to 50 cameras at the same time, so if the photographer on your list has multiple GoPros, this remote is the perfect accessory!

The GoPro Smart Remote has a rugged design that's waterproof up to 33 feet and is both mountable and wearable.

The LCD screen mirrors the screen on the camera's, that way you're abreast of the camera's status and making quick confirmations of the camera settings and functions.

This remote isn't just compatible with the Hero 8 Black, either. It also works with the Hero 8 MAX, Hero 7 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 5 Black, Hero 5 Session, and Fusion.

All this for well under $100 too!

Learn more about the GoPro Smart Remote

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: LitraTorch 2.0

I know what you might be thinking - this tiny light is worth $100??

Well, I’ve used the LitraTorch 2.0 for a few months now, and I can tell you it’s worth well more than $100…

Though it weighs just over three ounces, and is about 1.5 inches square, Litra packed 16 LEDs into it, so it has some serious light output! 

In fact, you can adjust the output from 100 to 450 to 800 lumens depending on what you’re doing.

Better yet, this little light puts out beautiful light that’s clean and crisp and flicker-free, too. It has a wide 70-degree beam angle to illuminate your subject and offers a color temperature of 5700K - right in the sweet spot of natural-looking light. 

On its low setting, the LitraTorch 2.0 will give you four hours of illumination while you get 35 minutes of light on full power. That’s a 10 percent improvement over the original LitraTorch.

It’s also waterproof up to 60 feet, has a magnet for easily attaching it to metal surfaces, and it’s built like a tank, so it’ll withstand some use and abuse.

This is simply a versatile, go-anywhere, do-anything light!

Learn more about the LitraTorch 2.0

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: RODE VideoMicro 

This tiny shotgun microphone is perfect for a GoPro.

It's compact and lightweight, but audio quality isn't sacrificed. In fact, it has a high-quality cardioid condenser mic capsule so you can get clear, crisp audio.

And since it's a directional mic, it minimizes sounds from the periphery so your video has focused audio from the subject.

Add to that a thermoplastic suspension structure for minimizing vibrations as you adventure around with your GoPro, and you have the ideal audio companion for the best adventura camera on the market!

If the photographer on your list is an adventurer and utilizes a GoPro, this is the perfect gift idea!

Learn more about the RODE VideoMicro

Gifts for Photographers Under $100: Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

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

Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

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

As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

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^{Photo by monkeybusinessimages via iStock}

 Christmas is just three short months away, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the gifts you’re going to give this year.

 Photographers can be notoriously difficult to shop for, though, so we’ve put together a fantastic list of ten gifts for photographers, all of which are less than $150.

 With that kind of budget, you can give all kinds of gifts, from a handy photography vest to a beautiful print to a must-have filter for shooting landscapes. Have a look at these and many other options below!

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: The Vest Guy Traveler Photo Vest

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list enjoys traveling, this Traveler Photo Vest from The Vest Guy would be an ideal gift. 

With this vest, your photography gear is both easy to carry and easy to access at a moment’s notice when it’s time to take a shot.

The vest has many features that make it a comfortable and functional way to carry camera gear. There’s one camera strap and two large cargo pockets that are perfect for carrying items like a lens or a flash. There are also two interior soft-sided adjustable cargo pocket dividers and nylon MOLLE loops for carrying additional gear.

There is a hydration sleeve, a convenient carry handle, and the vest is available in a variety of sizes and colors. You can add a second camera strap and a name tag (which is great for advertising) if you wish. 

On top of all that, these vests are made in the U.S.A. and there’s a lifetime workmanship warranty!

Learn more about The Vest Guy Traveler Photo Vest

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: PhotoRepairPro

Why not give the gift of making old new again this year?

If the photographer on your list is anything like me, they likely have tons of old photos in boxes in the basement or the attic. Some of those photos have probably seen better days, too.

That being the case, a great gift idea is to have a photo restored to its original glory!

For $34.99, you can give your favorite photographer a repaired photo, including an online proof, a JPEG download, and two 5x7 prints of the image. You even get free shipping on the prints!

No matter if the original image is faded, has creases, or needs to be colorized, PhotoRepairPro has your back.

What's more, they'll improve portraits by removing glare from eyeglasses, smoothing skin, or even changing the background.

There are simply a wealth of possibilities for breathing new life into old memories!

Learn more about PhotoRepairPro

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Deity V-Mic D3

With more and more photographers like myself getting into videography, the chances are good that the photographer on your holiday shopping list could stand to get a few video-related gifts this year.

Well, a great video requires great audio, and for that, the Deity V-Mic D3 is an excellent option.

This little mic offers broadcast-quality sound thanks to its low noise circuitry, extremely low distortion, and high-grade SNR. All that technology combines for top-notch off-axis sound performance.

The mic has a smart 3.5mm mic output and is compatible with any device that has a 3.5mm jack, including mirrorless and DSLR cameras, smartphones, and laptops.

Other features include one-button on/off, the ability to mount on a camera, and a 166-hour battery life off of a single AAA battery. Add in a unibody aluminum chassis for durability and you have the makings of the perfect gift for a photographer for under $150.

Learn more about the Deity V-Mic D3

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

If you ask me, one of the best gifts for photographers is a print of one of their favorite photos. It's a great way to honor their craft while also giving them a gift that truly keeps on giving! 

And I know what you're thinking...metal prints for under $150 must be pretty low quality. Happily, though, that's just not the case!

Artbeat Studios is known as an industry leader for high-quality metal prints. One of the reasons for this is because Artbeat Studios’ HD metal prints have the image heat infused directly into the metal. The result is unsurpassed resolution and color vibrancy.

Metal is a gorgeous substrate for all manner and type of photos, too. The crisp, clean detail and modern look is just what the doctor ordered for highlighting a beautiful image.

What’s more, Artbeat Studios uses Chromaluxe® brand aluminum sheets. This brand of aluminum has a 3x better permanence than Kodak Silver Halide Prints and resists fading for more than 65 years. So not only is an HD metal print a great gift for this holiday season, but it’s a gift that will keep on giving for decades!

You can also customize the look of the print by choosing different finishes, surfaces, and mounts. One of the newest additions to the options list is the textured matte surface for a true fine art look. 

Whatever options you choose, the result is a breathtaking and custom print that your favorite photographer is sure to love that won't bust your budget! And since Artbeat Studios won our 2020 Metal Print Shootout, you know you’re getting a high-quality product! 

Learn more about Artbeat Studios’ HD Metal Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: PolarPro QuartzLine 82mm ND64 Filter

When it comes to filters for photography, it’s tough to beat PolarPro… 

I’ve used PolarPro filters for years and they have proven to be well-made, durable, and supremely functional filters for my landscape photography exploits.

This particular filter is a 6-stop neutral density filter with a glass element that’s made of 99.9 percent pure fused quartz. As a result of the high-quality glass, this filter ensures that you can have supreme shutter control while getting zero image degradation and maintaining excellent sharpness throughout the image.

The frame is made of highly durable brass while the glass has optical coatings that offer nearly perfect light transmission without altering the color profile.

Likewise, the glass has abrasion-resistant and hydrophobic coatings that improve resistance from scratches while making cleaning super easy.

And since this filter comes with a lifetime warranty, should something ever go wrong, the photographer on your list has the peace of mind that PolarPro will make it right!

Learn more about the PolarPro QuartzLine 82mm ND64 Filter

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch

One of the best features of the Holdfast Gear Sightseer line of bags is that they are modular, so as your kit grows, your bag system can grow along with it.

Part of that modular system is the Sightseer Small Lens Pouch shown above.

These beautifully crafted lens pouches are constructed of waxed canvas and American Bison leather. Inside, the Aztec flannel fleece looks like a million bucks while providing a soft, secure environment that cradles your lens.

The outside of the pouch is weather resistant while the Aztec flannel on the interior is scratch resistant, which means your favorite photographer won’t have to worry about their gear getting wet or scratched no matter how many times they go out and shoot.

These pouches can be worn on any belt, on the Holdfast MoneyMaker, or on the exterior of the Holdfast Sightseer Bag, so there’s a ton of different ways for photographers to have their favorite lens right at their fingertips.

What better gift to give this holiday season than one that’s super functional, looks great, and is supremely versatile too?!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch 

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Ikan HomeStream 6-Inch Light With Tabletop Stand

What’s so great about the Ikan HomeStream light is that it can be used for multiple purposes. The photographer in your life can use it for studio lighting for videography work, as an accent light for portrait photography, and even as a light for taking self-portraits.

The light is 6-inches in diameter and has edge-lit LED technology for pure, clean light emission. 

It comes bundled with a desktop stand and a ball head that enables you to tilt and rotate the light as needed. The included stand can be adjusted from 13.75 inches up to 21.5 inches to ensure the user has the flexibility they need to perfectly position the light. 

With a color temperature range of 3200-5600K, brightness of 1050 lux at 0.5 meters, and a CRI of 95, this light puts out bright, pleasing light for any task in front of the camera.

Learn more about the Ikan HomeStream 6-Inch Light WIth Tabletop Stand

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Ikan iLED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light

For another lighting option, you can opt to get the photographer on your list the iLED 144 bi-color flood light.

This little light is just 5.75 inches by 3.25 inches yet delivers bright, beautiful light that can be used for photography or videography pursuits.

With a bi-color LED array, this light offers color temperatures that range from 3200-5600K. It has a 60-degree beam angle, intensity dimming, and an on-board battery indicator. It’s also stackable for ease of setup with other accessories.

Learn more about the Ikan ILED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Pre-Owned Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

If you’re shopping for a photographer that has a Nikon DSLR, this 50mm lens is an ideal gift. 

This focal length offers loads of versatility. It can be used for portraits, landscapes, and street photography, just to name a few. It can even be reverse mounted (with an optional adapter) to be used for macro photography work. The 50mm focal length is also ideal for videography. 

Additionally, this is a fast lens with a maximum f/1.8 aperture that enables better low-light performance. The bokeh it produces is also extremely pleasing to the eye.

Nikon lenses are well-made and durable, and this particular model is also highly compact and lightweight. This makes it a perfect all-day lens that doesn’t weigh photographers down or get in the way. 

And since this is a pre-owned lens, you can save a good deal of money - perhaps enough to get your favorite photographer a second gift!

Learn more about the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

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

Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

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

As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

 

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^{Photo 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 oxime via iStock}

With the calendar firmly into 2020, I figured it was time to unleash an updated lens filter buying guide.

There is a wide variety of filters you can have in your camera bag, both in terms of types and manufacturers.

But like camera lenses, lens filters are not all made alike - cheap filters can cause color casts, vignetting, and degrade the sharpness of an image.

In other words, why invest in a great lens if you're going to put a junk filter on the front of it?

Bear in mind that I'm using "cheap" as a reference to build quality, not to price. There are many excellent budget lens filters that will give you excellent results.

Without further ado, let's get to the best lens filters for 2020 - lens filter kits, circular polarizers, ND filters, and more!

Haida M10 Pro Filter Kit

I recently got my hands on the Haida M10 Pro 100mm filter kit, and I have to say that I'm impressed.

I've used other Haida filter systems as well, and they are a great combination of features, quality, and price.

In this case, the kit has a 100mm filter holder that has a drop-in slot for a circular polarizer. This makes it quick and easy to add or remove the CPL as needed. As a landscape photographer, having a good circular polarizer is an absolute must!

In this case, I particularly appreciate the gear on the side of the drop-in filter slot that allows me to rotate the polarizer with much greater ease.

Likewise, the filter hold rotates 360-degrees so I can position the filters with precision. The locking mechanism keeps everything in place, too.

In front of that are three slots for 100mm filters, so you can purchase solid ND filters, graduated ND filters, or reverse grads and add them to the holder for the specific effects you need.

The kit includes four adapter rings to accommodate popular lens sizes (67mm, 72mm, 77mm, and 82mm), a storage pouch, and four lens caps. Get more details in the video below by Ikan International:

With all these components included in the kit, this is a great starter filter kit for any photographer.

And with Haida's extensive line of 100mm filters, you can add the necessary filters to the kit as you go along and build a high-quality system that helps you improve the quality of your photos.

Price: $228.27 at Amazon

Learn more about the Haida M10 Pro Filter Kit

Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizer

^{Photo by Gary Gray via iStock}

If you ask me, there is no more important filter to buy than a circular polarizer.

That's because a polarizing filter can have a positive impact on your photos in a whole host of ways.

They cut down glare off of non-metallic surfaces like water and they also help boost the contrast in the sky for a deeper blue atmosphere and whiter clouds.

Additionally, a polarizing filter cuts down on atmospheric haze so distant elements in the shot appear to be crisper, as shown in the image above.

If you're after a budget-friendly polarizer, look no further than the Kenko Nyumon polarizer shown above.

This filter is crafted using optical-quality glass that's polished and coated to repel everything from water droplets to the oils from your skin.

On top of that, Kenko has smartly mounted it in a SLIM ring, that way there's less chance of vignetting occurring when using a wide-angle lens.

There's a wide range of sizes available as well, so virtually any lens you have, Kenko likely has a polarizer to fit.

And starting at less than $15.00, these things are easy on your bank account too!

This is a prime example of how budget lens filters can strike a balance between price and performance.

Price: Starting at $43.00 at Kenko Imaging USA

Learn more about the Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter

 

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

 

PolarPro Summit Filter Kit

Earlier, I mentioned that not all filters are made alike.

The Summit filter kit by PolarPro is an excellent example of that sentiment.

To begin, this system has an integrated circular polarizer. 

As you can see above, the polarizer slides into the filter holder to create a light-sealed system. The CPL is both low-low profile (to prevent vignetting) and it installs and removes easily.

What's more, the Summit system has tool-free mounting options, a tool-less rail mount, and a snap-on hood attachment that make using this system a breeze. This is a huge benefit for those instances in which the light is changing quickly and you need to adapt your setup sooner rather than later.

PolarPro has made the Summit system super lightweight, too, so you don't have to carry a big, heavy, bulky set of filters around with you as you seek the next great photo opportunity.

It helps that each filter has an aluminum frame, as that reduces fingerprints on the filter glass while also maximizing protection for the filter.

And since these filters are available in 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, 82mm, and 95mm, you can find the right size for your specific needs.

If you're a landscape photographer and you don't have a good set of filters, the PolarPro Summit system is an excellent option for you.

Price: $599.99 at PolarPro

Learn more about the PolarPro Summit Filter System

Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra ND Filter

A solid ND filter allows you to slow down the shutter speed or open up the aperture when shooting in bright conditions without overexposing the image.

Photos with blurred motion wouldn't be possible when shooting in broad daylight, because all that light from the long shutter speed would result in a completely blown out photo.

ND filters come in all kinds of strengths, with darker ND filters blocking out more light, thus allowing you to get longer exposures or use larger apertures.

Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest Ultra ND filters are a good choice because they offer excellent features without busting your budget.

These filters are bonded, which helps protect the filter's coating from damage. This means that you get a filter that helps you achieve your photographic goals while also giving you longer-lasting and durable performance over the long-term.

Formatt-Hitech also uses a lap and polish technique when manufacturing the Firecrest Ultra ND filters, which results in glass that offers hyper-neutral performance. There is no color casting and you get superb sharpness, minimal aberrations, and enhanced clarity, too.

These filters are available as 100mm x 100mm squares and come in a wide range of popular densities from 1 to 10 stops.

If you're in need of an ultra-dark filter, though, Formatt-Hitech has Firecrest Ultra NDs that go from 13 stops up to a whopping 24 stops!

It's that kind of variety that enables you to select the precise ND filters you need to create beautiful long exposure images, even on the brightest of days.

Price: Starting at $179.00 at Formatt-Hitech

Singh-Ray Variable ND Filter

Years ago, variable ND filters didn't have a good reputation. They just didn't work well and left you with images that had artifacts that ruined your images.

But today's variable ND filters are a new breed, and options like this one from Singh-Ray are among the best.

A variable ND filter is one of the best filters for landscape photography.

In a single filter, you have the capability of blocking anywhere from two to eight stops of light with the turn of the filter in its housing.

If you need to build a run and gun setup, having a single variable ND filter could be advantageous, rather than carrying multiple ND filters to achieve the same feat.

^{Image Credit: Marco Crupi}

As explained earlier, an ND filter is a must-have if you want to introduce motion effects - like blurry water or clouds - when photographing during the daytime.

With this filter, all you have to do is turn the filter to control how much light passes through the lens. And since it's a Singh-Ray, you can depend on quality construction that retains the color fidelity of the scene (and the sharpness, too).

Variable ND filters aren't just for still photography, though - you can utilize them when shooting video as well!

Price: $340.00 at Amazon

Learn more about the Singh-Ray Variable ND filter

Breakthrough Photography X4 Circular Polarizer

Breakthrough Photography's X4 circular polarizer is a top choice of many photographers thanks to its excellent performance and superb build quality.

The durable design is built to withstand the rough-and-tumble world of landscape photography. You can use it in high winds, in the presence of saltwater or dust, and other arduous environmental conditions and not worry that it will fail.

Additionally, these filters are guaranteed to maintain their optical clarity and color neutrality for 25 years thanks to its weather-sealed design.

This polarizing filter is one of our best filters for 2020 because of its nanocoating. Breakthrough Photography utilizes a bespoke nanotec coating that beads water and other elements off the glass. This means a cleaner filter for improved results while minimizing smearing, fingerprints, and so forth.

Paired with the SCHOTT Superwhite B270 optical glass, you get excellent light transmission, particularly in the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared spectrums.

Add to that a state-of-the-art multi-resistant coating that reduces reflections and improves contrast, and you have a recipe for a polarizer you can get a lot of mileage out of (and great results, too).

Price: Starting at $129.00 at Adorama

Lee Hard-Edge Graduated ND Filter

Our Lens Filter Buying Guide 2020 wouldn't be complete without a hard-edge graduated ND filter.

This one, by Lee, comes in various sizes to accommodate different setups, including 75mm x 90mm, 100mm x 150mm, and 150mm x 170mm. They're also available in various strengths, from 1-stop to 4-stops.

These hard-edge grads are perfect for landscape situations in which there is a definite horizon.

The quick transition from darkened to undarkened areas allows you to match up the filter with the horizon and get the desired filter effects for the sky while leaving the landscape below it untouched.

What sets this filter apart from those by other manufacturers is that it is hand-made with a gradual build-up of the ND gradation.

The gradation on the filter is created by dipping the filter into baths of dye. As a result of this hand-made process, you get hyper-accurate results that give you the ultimate in creative control.

With a hard-edge grad or two in your bag, you'll be better equipped to create beautiful landscape images that are well-exposed throughout.

Between the quality build and reasonable prices, you can see why this is among the best lens filters for 2020!

Price: Starting at $113.00 at Adorama

Learn more about Lee Hard-Edge Graduated ND Filters

Argraph Marumi M100 Filter System

Marumi’s Magnetic M100 Filter Holder and their line of magnetic filters are just what the doctor ordered for photographers that are sick of sliding filters in and out of their holders.

The M100 filter holder sports a slim 10mm design with strong magnetic attachments that hold the filter in place. The foam gaskets on the filter holder ensure that there are no light leaks to ruin your photos.

If using a circular polarizer, it rotates independently in the filter holder and features water and oil-repellent coatings on both sides that minimizes clean up.

The filter also has anti-static-anti-scratch, and anti-reflection properties that ensure you have the ideal shooting experience.

The other magnetic filters in Marumi’s lineup have the same features, including their graduated ND filters and solid ND Filters.

The graduated ND filters include hard-edge, soft-edge (as shown above), and reverse grads for photographing landscapes with a definite horizon, a variable horizon, and at sunrise and sunset, respectively.

Of course, there are also many different solid ND filters available from 2-stops all the way up to 15-stops.

Like the other Marumi filters mentioned above, these ND filters are made of durable Schott 5270 glass that offers high-definition results.

When photographing landscapes, the quality of light can change from one second to the next. That’s why this magnetic system is so compelling - by reducing the time spent swapping out filters, you can spend more time photographing the beauty before you!

Price: $149.99 for the M100 Filter Holder, $139.95 for the circular polarizer, and $199.95 for solid ND filters.

Cokin P-Series Soft-Edge Graduated ND Filter

Another popular filter for landscape photographers is a soft-edge grad, like this one by Cokin.

A soft-edge grad is ideally suited for use when there is not a definite horizon.

Unlike the hard-edge grad we discussed above, this one has a much more gradual transition from the filtered to non-filtered areas.

This allows for use in situations in which there are undulations in the horizon line, and when buildings, trees, and other objects that extend above the horizon.

What makes this Cokin soft-edge grad so great is its price - it's one of the best budget lens filters we've yet to find at less than $28.

But don't let that cheap price fool you - this is a well-built filter that performs well (as shown by the before and after photos above), which is why it has 4.5 out of 5 stars on Adorama!

It's specifically designed for use with Cokin's excellent P-series filter holder and features hyper-neutral results that you would expect from a high-quality filter.

This filter comes as a 3-stop, which is an ideal strength for many landscape photography situations in which the bright sky needs to be brought down a little.

Price: $27.61 at Adorama

Learn more about the Cokin P-Series Soft-Edge Graduated ND Filter

Haida NanoPro MC Reverse ND Grad

Last but not least, a great filter to have in your camera bag is a reverse ND grad, like this one by Haida.

A reverse ND grad is specifically designed for sunrise and sunset photos when the brightest part of the sky is along the horizon.

As you can see, the darkest part of the filter is in the middle, and it gradually gets lighter as you go toward the top (with no filtration on the bottom). This means you can manage the brightness of the sky along the horizon without impacting the darker areas of the sky above and the darker landscape below.

As you'd expect from Haida, this filter is well made without a huge price tag.

You get a high-quality, multi-layered filter that helps repel dirt and smudges. These filters are also extremely scratch-resistant, which is exactly what you want for your landscape photography outings.

These filters offer excellent sharpness, zero color casting, and they reduce reflections as well.

The high-grade optical glass is durable, too.

Price: Starting at $90.00 at Adorama 

 

 

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 ^{photo by panaramka via iStock} 

You can’t feel your fingers, or your toes, your hair is whipping at your face so hard you swear you’re going to get a buzz cut as soon as you get home and you’re trying incredibly hard to not get snow in your boots. 

It’s winter photography season, and when you’re worrying about not freezing to death, the last thing you want to be messing with is bad photography equipment. Winter photography can be absolutely stunning, and it’s definitely a foray into something most of us are not comfortable with, but you have to have to know your equipment to do it well. 

First Things First: Test Your Gear

^{Photo by Arno Body on Unsplash} 

What temperature range can your DSLR handle during winter photography? Do you know? Most DSLRs can handle temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit, which means no shooting in freezing temperatures for you.  

But, newer or more high-end DSLRs can handle temperatures even colder than this, specifically for winter photography. 

 ^{Photo by Sean Pierce on Unsplash}

The good news is you’re not going to permanently damage your camera by taking it outside for a few minutes to see how it performs under the current weather conditions. Chances are, it will probably be fine, but you want to check your full setup before trekking up a mountain pass. 

 

Editor's Tip: One of my must-haves in my camera bag is a durable, bright light. For that, I use the LitraTorch 2.0 because it's supremly rugged, small, and portable. It's waterproof too. With 16 LEDs that emit 100, 450, or 800 lumens, you can use it for light painting, to see as you change camera settings, as a torch...you name it! It's simply a versatile, go-anywhere light that any landscape photographer should have in their bag.

 

Tips for Winter Photography: Invest in High-Quality Accessories

Something that will make shooting photos in the winter an easier task is if you have camera accessories that are purpose-built to withstand harsh conditions.

One of the most important accessories for photographers is a good set of filters, but all filters are not made alike.

For the rough-and-tumble task of taking photos in the winter, you want something like the Summit series from PolarPro...

This system has an integrated circular polarizer slot that has easy-access control for manipulating the filter when your fingers are cold.

What's more, the Summit system has tool-free mounting options, a tool-less rail mount, and a snap-on hood attachment that make using this system a breeze, even when the weather isn't all that awesome.

PolarPro has made the Summit system super lightweight, too, so you don't have to carry a big, heavy, bulky set of filters around with you as you trudge through the snow.

It helps that each filter has an aluminum frame, as that reduces fingerprints on the filter glass while also maximizing protection for the filter.

And since these filters are available in 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, 82mm, and 95mm, you can find the right size for your specific needs.

If you're a landscape photographer and you don't have a good set of filters, the PolarPro Summit system is an excellent option for you for winter photography (and any other types of landscapes too!).

Tips for Winter Photography: Help Prevent Condensation

Matt Granger created a lovely video detailing how to prevent condensation in your equipment.

But, no matter how hard you try, when you’re moving equipment from the cozy indoors to snowy conditions, condensation will form, just like condensation forms on the windows of your car as soon as you get in. 

My best trick for how to prevent condensation in your camera is this: I always keep a gallon-sized Ziploc bag in my camera bag. I’ll stuff my camera and lenses in it before I head outdoors so that way it can cool to the outside temperature before I expose it to any moisture.

^{photo by z1b via iStock} 

Another pro winter photography tip is to stop putting your camera in your coat when it isn’t in use. While it may seem like you’re helping the camera to not get too cold, all you’re really doing is warming it up and cooling it down over and over again, which is what we were just trying to prevent with the Ziploc bag. 

Learn More:

• Wildlife Photography Tips for Bad Weather 
• How to Protect Your Camera Gear From the Elements 

Tips for Winter Photography: Keep Snow Away From Your Camera 

I can’t talk about winter photography without touching on winter photography gear tips. I’m currently obsessed with Camera Canopy.

For one thing, this beautiful little contraption is only $90 (or $60 if you own a mirrorless camera you need to protect). For another, it’s made by a small, photographer-owned company, so by supporting it, you’re supporting a fellow photographer. 

The Camera Canopy works better than a traditional camera rain cover, I can assure you. Plus, it’s extremely easy to set up, so you won’t need to fumble with your equipment while trying to mount it. 

All you have to do is attach the Camera Canopy to the hot shoe of your DSLR, and you’re ready to shoot.  

Additionally, if you’re prone to shoot way too far into a snow storm than you probably should, as I am, it also comes with a rear shield for complete protection.

 Visit Camera Canopy’s website if you want to learn more. 

Tips for Winter Photography: Keep Memory Cards and Batteries Warm

Jared Polin discusses a few tips for keeping your battery warm while shooting winter photography, but here are some more tips for winter photography.

Batteries the world over all work the exact same way, they’re worthless in the cold. While the rumors you’ve heard about lithium-ion batteries working better in extreme temperatures is true, even lithium-ion batteries quickly power down in freezing weather. 

Never go shooting in extreme cold without keeping several spare batteries stored in your jacket pockets. 

 ^{photo by bruev via iStock} 

As for memory cards, it may be time to update yours. Older memory cards perform worse in extreme temperatures, and photography gear companies are coming out with better cold-proofed memory cards every year.

Learn More:

• Must Have Camera AccessoriesMust Have Camera Accessories
• Fall Foliage Photography Tips 

 

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^{Photo by Lyndon Stratford via iStock}

As we near the end of 2019 (and the decade!), it's a prime time to look back on the year in photography.

It's been a crazy year with so many incredible innovations happening. I say that every year, but every year it's the truth!

When I think about the best photography gear, gadgets, products, and services, I think about things that are functional, easy to use, and innovative.

The list I've compiled below is full of products that tick these boxes...

Each item I've included on my Best of 2019 list is something that I have at the very least thoroughly tested or that I own.

With that said, here's a few items that blew me away in 2019.

Argraph Marumi M100 Filter System

One of the hallmarks of the companies featured on this list is that they have all innovated the photography industry in some way.

For Marumi, their claim to fame isn’t just crafting some of the best filter systems available today, but creating filter systems that streamline your workflow in the field.

Marumi’s Magnetic M100 Filter Holder and their line of magnetic filters are just what the doctor ordered for photographers that are sick of sliding filters in and out of their holders.

The M100 filter holder sports a slim 10mm design with strong magnetic attachments that hold the filter in place. The foam gaskets on the filter holder ensure that there are no light leaks to ruin your photos.

If using a circular polarizer, it rotates independently in the filter holder and features water and oil-repellent coatings on both sides that minimizes clean up.

The filter also has anti-static-anti-scratch, and anti-reflection properties that ensure you have the ideal shooting experience.

The other magnetic filters in Marumi’s lineup have the same features, including their graduated ND filters and solid ND Filters.

The graduated ND filters include hard-edge, soft-edge (as shown above), and reverse grads for photographing landscapes with a definite horizon, a variable horizon, and at sunrise and sunset, respectively.

Of course, there are also many different solid ND filters available from 2-stops all the way up to 15-stops.

Like the other Marumi filters mentioned above, these ND filters are made of durable Schott 5270 glass that offers high-definition results.

When photographing landscapes, the quality of light can change from one second to the next. That’s why this magnetic system is so compelling - by reducing the time spent swapping out filters, you can spend more time photographing the beauty before you! 

Ikan E-Image Horizon One 3-Axis Gimbal

One of the most pleasant surprises for me this year was just how good the Ikan E-Image Horizon One 3-Axis Gimbal really is.

I use this rig with my Nikon Z7, and it absolutely rocks it in terms of helping me get ultra-smooth, cinematic-looking video.

This gimbal is extremely well built and feels solid and supremely sturdy in your hand.

Granted, my setup doesn't come close to meeting this gimbal's eight-pound load capacity, but I'm sure it could perform just as well if I used a heavier camera and lens package.

The Horizon One has brushless motors that give you ultra-precise stabilization, and with the 12-hour runtime, you can shoot all day long without stopping to recharge the gimbal.

Built into the unit are five operational modes, including my personal favorite, "Dream Follow," which gives you 360-degree spin on the roll axis.

I can't even tell you how many gimbals I've tested and owned over the years - maybe more than a dozen!

And this rig is by far one of the very best.

It's impeccably built, full of features, and easy to use. If that doesn't say "Best of 2019," I don't know what does.

Ikan Onyx Digital Color LED Panel Light 

I know what you're thinking...

How can a light be part of the Best of 2019?

Well, as you know, photography is all about great light, and the Ikan Onyx Digital Color Light definitely delivers on that front.

What I've found so impressive with this light is that it has RGB, white, and amber LEDs. And with five color modes, you can use this thing for just about any kind of photo shoot or video shoot.

In fact, in RGB mode, this light gives you independent control over the red, green, and blue LEDs, which means you can literally create millions of different colors to suit your needs and tastes.

Meanwhile, the amber and white LEDs give photographers the option of recreating daylight or tungsten light with incredible accuracy.

This light even has a CCT mode that offers an adjustable color temperature from 2800K up to 10,000K. You simply don't find that kind of range in most lights!

On top of that, the Onyx has a Hue Shift feature of green and magenta lights, giving you yet another option for exerting pinpoint control over the kind of light you have available to you.

Ikan also stuffed the Onyx with eight special effects - like police lights and candle flames - as well as 33 different gels to give you even further light customization possibilities.

Heck, there's even a built-in 1/2-stop diffuser!

This is one of the best lights I've used this year, and the data backs it up - it has a CRI-TLCI rating of 95, so you know that the light it emits is clean and beautiful.

In my opinion, you just won't find a better light, which is why I've included it in my Best of 2019 list.

Exposure Software

I've been a fan of Exposure Software for a long time, and it just keeps getting better and better with more and more tools available that make editing photos a simpler, more streamlined process.

The latest version of Exposure - Exposure X5 - is brimming with innovative and easy-to-use features.

There's a huge collection of "Looks," which give you the power to change the appearance of the image with a simple click.

You can make selective presets too, that way the edits you want to apply only apply to specific areas of the image.

Exposure has all the basic editing tools you could want as well, including nondestructive layers, linear and radial gradients, a brush tool, overlays, creative focus, and more.

In addition to all that, Exposure is also a complete photo manager.

You can apply camera profiles and presets, migrate collections over from Lightroom, use keywords to manage and organize your images, and review images side-by-side for easy comparison.

Exposure also enables you to create smart collections of photos - just add specific criteria you want for the collection (i.e., rating, color label, flag, camera data, f-stop, and so forth) and Exposure will populate the collection for you.

Nice, right?!

 

One of my favorite features, though, is the 3D color masking tool in Exposure.

Basically, this tool gives you precise control over where an adjustment is applied in the shot. This is thanks to the range of definitions that Exposure uses to define adjustment areas, such as saturation, hue, and luminance.

Because you can target colors of a specific hue, for example, you can apply adjustments to specific areas of the shot, like the sky or to skin tones. You can do all this with just a few clicks, too!

From the intuitive user interface to the powerful editing tools to the suite of support features that help make your workflow smoother, Exposure has everything you need to create your best images. They even offer a free trial to give it a test drive!

Syrp

It's been a great year for Syrp...

They unveiled the Syrp Genie Mini II Linear this time last year to much fanfare.

If you're unfamiliar with this thing, the Genie Mini II Linear is incredibly portable and gives you the option to add motion control to your timelapse and films without lugging around a big, heavy piece of kit.

It can attach to any slider on the market and even cable cam systems up to 328’ in length, so you can quickly and easily upgrade your ability to capture gorgeous timelapses and real-time video.

Additionally, the Genie II Linear is loaded up with features for key-framing, shooting interviews, b-roll and timelapse with future available features including live view, and camera control for ramping exposure, just to name a few. It’s wirelessly controllable as well, via an iOS or Android device.

At the same time, Syrp introduced the Genie II Pan Tilt, which gives you an ultra-portable camera motion control that you can carry in your backpack. 

You can use it with a tripod for ultra-precise pan and tilt motion control, or if you want three-axis, use it in conjunction with the Genie II Linear for the most powerful 3-axis device on the market.

Like the Genie II Linear, the Pan Tilt offers tons of functionality, including timelapse and real-time video capabilities, key-framing, and much more. With multi-row Panoramas, you can capture high resolution ‘gigapixel’ images and shoot Panoramas all controlled from the app itself.

It also has a built-in screen so you don’t have to use the app if you don’t need it and you want to pack light, not to mention a built-in joystick for quick setup and re-positioning from the device itself. Not bad, right?!

After that, Syrp brought us the Tilt Platform, which allows you to get perfectly level, vertical footage.

It couldn't be easier to use, either...

It requires no tools, has angle markings to help you dial in accurate adjustments, and it has a 3/8-16" - 1/4-20" UNC thread adapter in the base to expand its mounting options.

Just use the easy-adjustable knob to change the lever tension to secure your camera, and away you go!

You can position the Tilt Platform up to 180-degrees, it can be used with motion control or manual sliders, and it'll hold up to 13.2 pounds of gear.

And as if all that isn't enough, Syrp just released a new app feature available through the Syrp Genie II app - stop motion.

This mode allows you to create stop motion videos more precisely (and faster) than ever.

You can set up any desired movement using the app's keyframe editor, and you have complete control over the video's frame rate.

Once you have the motion set up, all you have to do is move the motion controller to each frame and trigger the camera's shutter.

Stop motion videos have never been so easy to make!

Excire 

Excire is an innovative product that I became familiar with last year, and I just have to continue singing its praises. 

For me, there isn’t much that I hate doing more than manually tagging my photos in Lightroom. That’s why there are thousands and thousands of images in my Lightroom catalogs that aren’t tagged at all. 

Until now… 

What’s so great about Excire’s products - Excire Search and Excire Search Pro - is that they utilize artificial intelligence to tag your Lightroom photos for you. 

Yeah...we’re living in the future, my friends! 

Excire Search has 125 common keywords that can be used for tagging your images, so every shot you have of a mountain or a bike or a dog will be organized and easily identified. 

Excire Search can obviously be used to search your images as well. Just use the plugin to find the images in your catalog that meet your criteria!

Even better, Excire Search Pro offers over 500 keywords for tagging, so you have even more capability to organize and search your photos.

It includes a keyword transfer function, too, which means you can use Excire Search Pro on your existing catalogs. That means no more hunting around for the images you need, even if you have an enormous Lightroom catalog of tens of thousands of images.

In other words, Excire transfers the keywords it extracts to your Lightroom catalog, and then those keywords can be used in Lightroom as if you had manually entered them.

Needless to say, Excire Search is a fantastic tool for beginner and hobbyist photographers, and Excire Search Pro is a great option for serious photographers and professionals.

It's this kind of innovation I looked for when considering my Best of 2019 list!

PolarPro Summit Filters

PolarPro has built a reputation over the years of developing well-built, high-performance products, and their newest filters are no exception.

The Summit filter system was specifically developed for the rough-and-tumble world of landscape photography.

These filters are built to withstand the rigors of shooting outdoors in harsh conditions while at the same time having a design that makes them incredibly easy to use.

On the one hand, the ND and graduated ND filters have aluminum frames that both protect the filter and help minimize fingerprints getting on the filter glass.

So, not only do you get filters that are more durable, but you also won't spend as much time cleaning the filters to get rid of fingerprints. It's a win-win!

On the other hand, the filters and filter housing feature materials that ratchet up the build quality.

For example, the filters are made of fused Quartz glass with 16 layers of coatings that improve color fidelity and clarity while reducing glare.

As another example, the filter frames are made of lightweight aluminum that helps cut weight in your pack while providing you strong durability for years to come.

Add in a user-friendly design, light-sealed slots, filter locks to lock down the filter position, and the ability to rotate the filter system 360 degrees, and you have the makings of the ideal landscape photography filter kit - one of the best of 2019, in fact!!

Wolverine Data F2D Titan

What’s so great about the Wolverine Data F2D Titan is that it’s an 8-in-1 rig. 

In addition to working with slides, 8mm movies, and Super 8 movies, the F2D Titan also works with 35mm, 110, 126, 127, and APS film.

It has a 20-megapixel sensor that turns your analog memories into high-definition digital files at up to 5472 x 3648 pixels.

The F2D Titan makes quick work of scanning, too. In just three seconds, the scan is complete thanks to its speed-load adapters that are perfectly sized to each format of slide or negative that you’re scanning.

 

You can view the results of the scan on the onboard 4.3-inch color LCD. You can even fine-tune the brightness and color balance settings. If you prefer to see your newly digitized photos on a larger screen, simply connect the F2D Titan to a computer or a TV.

Saving the digitized images is a breeze, too. Just use its internal memory or add your own SD/SDHC memory card.

Better still, you don’t need a computer or external monitor or software of any kind, so this unit is totally self-contained. Just have a power source (via an AC outlet or USB) and you can digitize slides, film, and old movies anywhere you like.

If you’ve got a lot of old memories to digitize, there’s isn’t a better or faster way to do so than with this bad boy! It's simply the easiest, most functional film to digital scanner I've ever tested.

RODE Video Mics

I have several RODE mics, including the tiny shotgun microphone shown above.

The RODE VideoMicro is compact and lightweight, which makes it a perfect pairing for my GoPro.

But don't think that because it's a tiny mic that audio quality is sacrificed. In fact, it has a high-quality cardioid condenser mic capsule so you can get clear, crisp audio.

It's shocking just how good this little guy performs!

Since it's a directional mic, it minimizes sounds from the periphery so your video has focused audio from the subject.

Add to that a thermoplastic suspension structure for minimizing vibrations as you adventure around with your GoPro, and you have the ideal audio companion for the best adventure camera on the market!

For more heavy-duty action, I have a RODE VideoMic Pro.

This shotgun-style mic has a 1/2-inch condenser capsule, which results in ultra-clean audio that's broadcast quality. We're talking about a self-noise level of just 14db!

It has a super-cardioid polar pattern that reduces background noise while ensuring that it captures crisp audio of the source you want to record.

And, unlike lesser microphones, the RODE VideoMic Pro has a Rycote Lyre shock system that creates a buffer between the microphone capsule and electronics and the microphone mount. This, in turn, minimizes the vibrations of the mic and improves the quality of the audio even more.

Add in fantastic sound, easy-to-reach controls, and intuitive operation, and you have the makings of the ideal microphone for filmmaking! 

Camera Canopy

I first learned about Camera Canopy last year, and I have to say that over the course of 2019 I've grown to appreciate this unique camera accessory more and more.

Photographers that spend any time outdoors understand that when it rains, it can really put a damper on their ability to get the photos they want. That’s because even weather-sealed gear isn’t completely water-tight.

And trying to manipulate camera controls with a traditional bag-like rain cover for a camera is a huge pain in the rear. That’s why Camera Canopy is a much better alternative.

Camera canopy attaches to a camera via its hot-shoe mount, and then acts like a roof to protect the camera and lens from rain. It even protects the from glass of the lens so there’s no water droplets messing up the shot.

Better still, it’s adjustable for lenses up to 500mm in length.

Camera Canopy also has a mirrorless camera version, so now that I've gone totally mirrorless, I can still enjoy the benefits of having my camera and lens protected by a Camera Canopy.

Just like its big brother, this mirrorless version is extremely easy to mount to your camera, simple to adjust for different lens lengths, and still provides you unfettered access to your camera's controls.

It's simply the best wet-weather camera accessory money can buy!

Hex Brand Ranger Sling Bag

I had an opportunity to head up to Los Angeles a while back and meet the masterminds behind HEX.

It was a fun time looking behind the curtain at their operation, plus I got to bring one of their Ranger Sling bags home to test out.

First impressions are good, to say the least! And that's coming from an admitted bag snob.

For instance, I check the stitching inside and out to see how well put together it is, and with this bag, it’s very well put together.

It’s part of thoughtful construction and design processes that make this bag one of the very best I've used this year.

One of the things I like most about the bag is the collapsible interior dividers - including the bottom divider. This gives you a bag that can not only be customized to your gear for each photoshoot, but you can also fold up or remove the dividers to allow the bag to be packed totally flat for travel inside another bag. 

Speaking of customizations, this bag has side adjustable load straps and adjustable bottom carry straps so you can carry even more gear when needed.

This bag is also packed full of pockets to help you keep track of your stuff. There’s a front access organizer for small items, a faux fur lined pocket on the front for your phone or a pair of shades, a faux fur lined pocket for your table, and multiple hidden velcro stash pockets. And the bag sits very well when worn. It’s comfortable and easy to access your gear and really hugs your body.

With genuine Cordura material and YKK zippers with metal pulls, this bag will stand up to use and abuse, too. And since it’s so compact (just 1.3 pounds and 14.5"L x 7.25"W x 4.75"H), you can rock it in the urban jungle without worrying that it’ll be knocking into people as you move from shot to shot.

Something that really stood out to me was that, although the bag is listed at 8 liters, there is no wasted or negative space. In fact, I easily transferred all the gear I would normally carry in my Peak Design 10L Sling into the HEX Ranger Sling. I have to say that I am a big fan of the efficient use of space in this bag and the collapsible potential of the HEX bag certainly gives it a leg up.

With eight liters of storage space, a streamlined design, and looks that don’t quit, this is definitely one of the best products I tested this year! 

TravelSchool.Info

^{Photo by anyaberkut via iStock}

This entry on my Best of 2019 list is a little different from the rest...

Rather than a camera accessory or some kind of service you use to take better photos, TravelSchool.Info makes it on this list because of its innovative approach to education and furthering your ability to make money.

TravelSchool.Info enables you to learn how to harness the power of affiliate marketing all the while traveling the world. Sounds nice, right?

By teaching you how to create multiple revenue streams from affiliate marketing, TravelSchool enables you to earn active and passive income that frees up your time to pursue things that are more fun than working!

Travel School is a comprehensive training program for starting an independent affiliate marketing business. It will take you step-by-step through the process of building a business that is not only wildly successful in the short-term, but can sustain steady growth for the long-term too.

Travel School founder Emilian travels the world with his furry friend, Divak, and is eager to share his knowledge and experience with you and help you build a successful affiliate marketing business that will allow you to quit your traditional job and travel the world like you want!

But Travel School isn’t just a step-by-step training program. Instead, it will change your outlook on what it means to work, and at the same time will be a transformational experience that will change their entire life for the better.

With specific, actionable steps, you will learn how to connect with established brands, develop core marketing skills, and activate multiple income streams to realize their dream of living a life full of travel and freedom.

Not only does Travel School aid in leveraging the credibility of amazing companies, but they will also offer weekly private webinars to keep your loved one motivated and on track toward accomplishing their goals.

Additionally, all training sessions are recorded and available at any time, that way if questions come up down the road or a little extra motivation is needed, the lessons can be easily accessed. There are opportunities to learn and collaborate with other students too!

It’s not often that you have the opportunity to learn how to live a life with more freedom, but in this case, Travel School is does just that!

Octopus.Camera OctoPad

I’m a gear head and I buy and test all kinds of stuff - cameras, lenses, tripods, lights...you name it!

But one of the most pleasant surprises I had this year was the Octopus.Camera OctoPad.

I know what you’re thinking...how can a little weighted support system be all that innovative? Trust me when I say that OctoPad certainly is!

For starters, OctoPad is a much better alternative than suction cup mounts or even mini tripods because it actually stays put.

The weighted anti-slip mat keeps the OctoPad right where you want it, even if it’s on a smooth or uneven surface.

Additionally, OctoPad has a built-in 1/4-20 threaded male bolt for attaching any number of accessories like a microphone or a light. The included ball head also has a 1/4-20 threaded male bolt for accessory attachment.

That means that this little guy is a great option for supporting a compact camera or a smartphone, a GoPro, a microphone, or a light. Plus, it can be used for photo or video work, giving you even more versatility.

It’s easy to use and transport too - there’s a built-in grommet for attaching a lanyard and a cable strap to tuck cables out of the way of your shots.

This is just a well designed product that offers a ton of benefits for photographers and videographers alike. And the best part? It’s priced at just $26.95!

Snaptiles

One of the most innovative products I encountered this year is Snaptiles.

These ingenious patented magnetic photo tile system takes all the fuss and muss out of displaying your photos.

If you want to create a mixed tile array, you can do so in a matter of seconds thanks to the easy mounting system that Snaptiles employs.

All you do is attach the mounting bracket to the wall using four adhesive strips. Make sure to press down firmly for 10 seconds so that it holds tight to the wall. You can snap up to 12 photo tiles onto the first anchor tile. If you really want to have some fun push in the 4 included thumbtacks for additional support. You can then snap up to 30 Snaptiles to the anchor! Not a bad tradeoff for 4 small pin holes if you ask me.

Next, you mount the anchor tile to the wall mount by snapping it into place.

Then, you can add any number of additional photo tiles, which connect together using rare earth magnets. And that’s it!

Now instead of having to put nails in the wall to hang additional photos, you can simply order 4 photo tiles from Snaptiles, add them to your array of mixed tiles, and enjoy your favorite photo (along with all your other favorites in the display).

These tiles are super lightweight so if they fall they won’t break. They are printed onto a premium SBS Acid-Free paperboard using the same printing technology as high-quality photo books. Likewise, the UV protective lamination ensures that the images don’t lose their color over time.

Snaptiles has a unique ability to let you display your photos in a creative and ever-changing way. When it comes to hanging art and your favorite images, being able to swap them out quickly and easily is a huge bonus.

Best of all, four tiles are just $59 with Free Shipping, so you can enjoy four of your favorite images without breaking the bank.

What’s not to like about that?!

Westcott Rapid Box Octa

As photographers, we all know the value of good light for creating compelling photos. And when it comes to modifying light to get the precise look you want, Westcott should be your source.

After all, Westcott has been in this business since 1899, so they know exactly what they’re doing.

In fact, Wescott holds 12 patents and has a product line of more than 600 products, so they’re much more than umbrellas and lights - they’re the go-to for all manner of durable, high-end lighting gear.

It would be impossible to expound upon Westcott’s vast array of products, so I’ll illustrate why they’re included on my list of the Best of 2019 by using their Rapid Box Octas as examples.

I know you’re probably thinking, “Aren’t all softboxes the same?” Well, no, my friend, they aren’t!

Westcott’s Rapid Box Octa, which come in small (26-inch), medium (36-inch), and large (48-inch) versions, are the ideal softbox for modifying speedlites.

For starters, these things are supremely easy to set up - you can have them ready to go in a matter of seconds, so there’s no long, drawn-out procedure for getting your gear ready for the shoot.

They’re easy to transport as well, given that they are completely collapsible and super lightweight.

But don’t think that because they’re collapsible and easy to set up that they’re somehow not durable. Far from it.

The solid metal framework ensures that these softboxes retain their shape over the course of years and years of repeated use, and the built-in mounting hardware means there’s a snug fit with your speedlite whether it’s a Yonguo, Nikon, or something in between.

In other words, Westcott makes this list of the Best of 2019 not just because they create superb lighting gear, but because they also have a proven track record of innovation when it comes to lighting gear.

Their products are durable and easy to use and show a demonstrated effort by Westcott to think purposefully about design and functionality so you and I have a better user experience.

But don’t take my word for it...see the Rapid Box Octa in action in the video above!

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^{Photo by Marcus Millo via iStock}

Each year I buy and test a ton of photography gear. And a lot of that gear is really good stuff that impresses me from moment one.

But a small percentage of that gear falls into the "innovative" or "game-changer" category. It's hard to be on the leading edge, yet the companies on this list have managed to plant themselves firmly at the forefront.

Below is my list of the Best of 2020. From bags to cameras, filters to monitors, there is something for everyone on this list.

Let's get to it!

Hex Brand Ranger Sling Bag

You might recall that the HEX Ranger Sling Bag was on my Best of 2019 list.

The new-and-improved Version 2 has appeared on this list because, just like its predecessor, it is an absolutely fantastic bag.

I remember when I brought this bag home for the first time just how impressed I was with it in every aspect.

The design of it is spot-on. It's big enough to hold eight liters of gear, but the way it's designed it hugs your body.

So, this means that you get all the room you need for quick photography outings, but in a bag that doesn't flop around or get in the way.

In fact, I've never owned a bag that conforms to my body as well as this one does. It's perfect for running and gunning, street photography, and trips where long hikes are involved.

Additionally, when you look at the stitching of this bag you really see the attention to detail.

It's thoughtfully constructed - and well-constructed too - which makes it a bag that works well for multiple purposes (and will work well for years to come).

Another feature of this bag that's truly a home run is the collapsible interior dividers.

Having these dividers means a couple of important things. First, this bag is incredibly packable. It packs completely flat so you can stash it inside your carry on or another bag with ease.

Second, the collapsible dividers (which includes the bottom divider) mean you can completely customize the interior compartment to meet the needs of each individual photography outing. Not bad, right?

This bag has loads of other features that make it so useful for so many photographers...

There's a hideaway rain fly (shown above) for those drizzly days out shooting and increased padding on the top lid for added protection.

HEX also added more padding to the shoulder pad for added comfort and a double buckle strap that allows for more sizing options.

There are also side adjustable load straps and an adjustable bottom carry straps so you can carry your tripod or other gear if need be.

On the inside, you'll find pockets galore to keep your small items like memory cards neatly organized. Add to that a faux fur-lined pocket for your phone, another faux fur-lined pocket for your tablet, and multiple hidden Velcro stash pockets that are perfect for hiding your credit card or cash.

Back to the exterior, you'll find that it's made of genuine Cordura material for supreme durability. There are genuine YKK zippers with metal pulls as well, so you can rest assured that the bag will withstand years of use.

Between the streamlined design, the impeccable construction, the smart use of space, and the price tag of less than $100, you should be able to understand why this bag took top honors on my Best of 2020 list!

Learn more about the HEX Ranger Sling V2

ViewSonic VP3881 38-Inch Ultra-wide Curved Monitor

I have always used laptops for work simply because I want the mobility of being able to take my work with me when I travel.

So that means I need a larger monitor for my home office, that way I'm not staring at the tiny laptop screen all day.

Earlier this year, I upgraded my home office with a ViewSonic VP3881 38-inch ultra-wide curved monitor, and man, was that ever a good decision!

I had been an LG monitor user for years and years, but I decided to give ViewSonic a try after hearing so many good things about their 38-inch widescreen monitor.

When ViewSonic says the curved widescreen design is an "immersive...curved viewing experience," they aren't kidding.

This thing has impeccable colors, gorgeous detail, and superb sharpness.

The 60Hz SuperClear IPS technology makes the viewing experience incredibly pleasant...even when I'm staring at the monitor all day long.

The monitor has multiple color spaces plus a 4.39-trillion color display. It has 14-bit LUT and 3D LUT capabilities as well. I also appreciate the simple calibration setup, that way I can quickly and easily make sure that the display matches the colors in my images files.

The frameless design means there isn't a huge bezel to look at, which I also appreciate. And with ViewSonic's ViewSplit technology, I can create multiple viewing windows to give my productivity a boost.

Add in U.S-based customer service and a three-year warranty, and you begin to see why I've put this monitor on my Best of 2020 list. It truly is the best monitor I've had the pleasure of using! Get more details about this monitor and how it's impacted my workflow in the video above.

Learn more about the ViewSonic VP3881 38-Inch Ultra-Wide Curved Monitor

H&Y REVORING

One of my favorite products to come out in 2020 is definitely H&Y's Revoring.

In short, Revoring is a variable step ring. It eliminates the need to have a pile of step rings in your bag and replaces it with one easy-to-use gadget.

But Revoring is so much more than easy-to-use. It is inexpensive, so you can save money. It also saves weight and space in your camera bag. On top of all that, it will help you improve and streamline your workflow. That's not a bad list of benefits if you ask me!

Using Revoring couldn't be easier...

As you can see in the GIF above, you simply twist the mechanism built into the filter to adjust its size. It then locks into place on your lens, allowing you to use different-sized filters with multiple lenses.

Revoring comes in three different variations:

• 37-49mm
• 46-62mm
• 67-82mm

This means, for example, that you can use the same filters with your lens with a 46mm thread as you do with your lens that has a 52mm thread.

But that's not all H&Y had up their sleeve...

They developed another Revoring that has a built-in circular polarizer and a built-in variable ND filter.

This Revoring works just like the other one - just twist the housing to adjust it to the size of your lens, lock it in place, and off you go.

Since it has separate controls for the polarizer and the variable ND filter, you get all the precision control you need to create beautiful images.

This is truly one of the most innovative products to come out in 2020 - if not the previous several years. It can totally change your workflow for the better...I know it has for me!

Learn more about the H&Y Revoring

Haida M10 Filter System

The Haida M10 Filter System gets a nod on my Best of 2020 list for a wide range of reasons.

For starters, I've tested my fair share of filter systems over the years, and this one is definitely among the very best.

Right out of the box, this filter system demonstrates how committed Haida is to quality.

The M10 holder itself is super lightweight. As you hold it in your hand, you can tell that despite its light weight it is a durably-constructed piece.

Something else I appreciate about the holder is that it has a felt lining that prevents scratches as you insert and remove filters.

Additionally, there is a quick-release clip for quick and easy removal. Even the clip shows a durability and quality that's above the norm - it has a good degree of tension that prevents you from accidentally knocking it off.

And since this is a drop-in system, it is super functional because you can use round or square filters.

Speaking of the filters, the filters in this kit are impressive.

The kit I have has multiple square and circular filters, including graduated NDs, solid NDs, and a circular polarizer.

With two slots, you can mix and match and stack filters as needed.

The kit is well-designed, easy to use, and its matte black finish with red accents looks killer.

The included filters are well built, too.

Since I'm primarily a landscape photographer, the included polarizer is something that caught my eye from moment one.

Its holder has a seal that prevents light leaks for cleaner shots. There's also a dial on the filter that allows you to rotate the filter in its housing without having to move the filter holder.

Needless to say, this is very handy if you have stacked filters along with the polarizer!

This kit is well put together and super functional. I highly recommend it to my fellow filter snobs! 

Learn more about the Haida M10 Filter system

Epson SureColor P900 Printer

A few years ago, I made the switch from Canon printers over to Epson. My first Epson was the SureColor P800.

That printer completely changed how I viewed the quality that a desktop printer could produce.

Don't get me wrong...my Canon printers were reliable, functional, and did a great job. But that should tell you just how impressive that P800 printer was!

Now Epson has a new-and-improved version out, the SureColor P900.

Here's a quick overview of some of its basic specs: 

• 17-inch printing capability
• Borderless printing
• 30-sheet media input tray
• Calibrated internal light
• 2.4 and 5 GHz Wireless
• 4.3-inch touchscreen panel
• 10-channel print head
• MicroPiezo AMC Print Head that has an ink-repelling coating that prevents clogs

The P900 also has a larger 4.3-inch touchscreen that I really appreciate. The P800's touchscreen was 2.7-inches, so it wasn't tiny by any means, but the P900's screen is definitely easier to use and read.

^{10-channel ink cartridges for the Epson SureColor P900}

Second, the 10-channel print head is something to behold.

With 10 channels for printing, you get dedicated Matte Black and Photo Black. This means that you no longer have to swap between these cartridges. That's a very handy feature.

This 10-channel print head also has a new violet channel that gives you much-improved color rendition of violet, purple, and blue tones. In fact, the P900 has a 6 percent wider color gamut than its predecessor, and you can definitely see it when you print your photos!

Additionally, these printers can use different printing medias, so you can adjust your printing process to your specific needs.

For example, you can use the 30-sheet media tray and use traditional photo paper, but you can also use rolls up paper up to 10-feet in length.

Add in high-capacity cartridges, color permanence that's measured in centuries, and updated print drivers, and you begin to see why I've put the Epson SureColor P900 on my list of the best of 2020!

Learn more about the Epson SureColor P900 Printer

PolarPro Shutter Collection for GoPro Hero 9 Black

PolarPro has a long-standing reputation for developing innovative products, and their three-pack of ND filters for the GoPro Hero 9 Black is no exception.

By using these ND filters, you can slow the shutter speed on your GoPro to cinematic levels, giving you the ability to capture gorgeous slow-motion video and long exposures even in the brightest daylight conditions.

The pack includes ND8, ND16, and ND32 filters that are custom-engineered to directly replace the front lens element on the GoPro.

Each filter has CinemaSeries™ Glass, which offers superb durability and protection from impact while you're out adventuring.

Not only that, but the CinemaSeries™ Glass also has 16 layers of coatings that help protect from scratches, fingerprints, and oils. These coatings also minimize flare.

Add in a storage case for the filters, a low price, and PolarPro's Adventure Assurance™ money-back guarantee, and you have the makings of one heck of a photography product for 2020!

Learn more about the PolarPro Shutter Collection

Peak Design Mobile

I've been a peak design fan for years and years.

I have a number of their bags. I also have their incredible Travel Tripod.

And now I will be adding their Mobile products to my kit.

As usual, Peak Design is launching this product on Kickstarter. Their past campaigns have been hugely successful. This one is no exception.

Peak Design has a reputation for designing and building high-quality, innovative products. Their Mobile by Peak Design products will follow that trend.

I have the pre-production versions of the Mobile line, and I have to say that I am very impressed.

This isn't just some fancy phone cases...

Instead, the collection includes mounts, chargers, and other accessories that will help you integrate your phone more seamlessly into your life.

There's a kickstand wallet, a tripod, and a Creator Kit with goodies for content creators to maximize the power of their phone.

These accessories are compatible with the new MagSafe system on the iPhone 12, but they are also compatible with other phones, including some Androids.

All these accessories are centered around the Everyday Case.

This is a sleek, low-profile case with stunning good looks. Better still, it wraps around your phone rather than adding bulk.

One of the most interesting aspects of this case is its dual-locking mechanisms.

There's a soft lock that uses MagSafe-compatible magnets for light-duty use, like mounting your phone to your car's air vent. There's also a hard lock that has mechanical claws for a heavy-duty connection for rugged use - like riding dirt bikes.

In other words, this slim case and mounting system bring ruggedness, ease of use, a slim profile, and good looks together in one awesome package.

Each accessory in this collection has auto-aligning magnetic connections for ease of use and is made from premium materials. Each item is also individually serialized and is guaranteed for life. No more buying cheap accessories that fall apart...buying these bad boys is a lifelong investment!

Perhaps most impressive is that the Mobile line from Peak Design is 100 percent carbon neutral. That means you can score some killer gear while helping save the planet. Nice!

Learn more about Peak Design Mobile

Podium

If you run a photography business, you understand how the little tasks of the day can really add up to a significant amount of time.

That's why I'm always looking for ways to streamline my day so I can make more efficient use of the time I have.

One of the most interesting business tools I've come across in recent years helps you do just that. It's called Podium.

If you lament how much time you have to spend responding to emails, contact requests from your website, Facebook messages, and so forth, you can stay up-to-date with all those things (and more!) without leaving the Podium platform. It truly is a one-stop shop!

Rather than having to check all your socials and email and so forth, Podium allows you to text clients and prospective clients and organizes all those messages in a single dashboard, shown above.

Podium is built on the idea that the best way to get leads and turn prospects into customers is timely, genuine communication. This is important in any business, but particularly so in photography, where you're likely to have stiff competition for clients from other photographers in your area.

You want to make it as easy as possible for people to ask you questions or find what they’re looking for, and Podium will do just that!

If you use Podium, it not only saves a lot of time, but it can also help your photography business earn more money by ensuring that you're always the first one to respond to potential clients.

Podium even has a feature that lets you invoice clients right from the app so you can also get paid more quickly. It's these kinds of conveniences that make Podium a solid choice for the Best of 2020!

Learn more about Podium

Razer Blade 15 Studio

Some of you might recall that I have a 2019 Razer Blade 15 Studio.

It's been an incredible computer, to be sure. The graphics card alone makes it one of the best laptops I've ever had.

But for this list, I want to talk about the 2020 model, which is even better...

It's retained many of the best features of the 2019 version and juiced up many others.

Get a load of these specs:

• Windows 10 Pro
• 8-core 10th Generation Intel Core i7 processor with up to 5.1GHz max boost
• NVIDIA Quadro RTX 5000 GPU
• 15.6” OLED touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass 
• Up to 4TB of SSD storage
• Up to 64GB of dual-channel DDR4 memory
• Upgraded backlit keyboard

The biggest news with the 2020 Razer Blade 15 Studio is that it keeps the incredible GPU from the 2019 model - the NVIDIA Quadro RTX 5000.

When I say that this GPU is high-end, I mean it.

I've had plenty of laptops (and desktops, for that matter) that have claimed to have a "high-end" graphics card, but none have come close to what this NVIDIA card can do. In fact, I'd describe it as having Hollywood studio-level stuff in your laptop at home!

A second very exciting feature on the 2020 Razer Blade 15 Studio is that you can now get one with an 8-core processor.

Combined with the raw power of the NVIDIA GPU, these new 8-core processors make this a true workhorse for intense photo and video editing.

I appreciate the bigger OLED touchscreen that gives you 15.6-inches of real estate to view. The display is even color-calibrated and has a Gorilla Glass panel to beef up its durability.

This laptop has tons of ports, a UHS-III card reader, and a gorgeous anodized aluminum body as well. It is truly a work of art if you ask me!

Learn more about the Razer Blade 15 Studio

f-stop Coffee

Each year, our “best of” list includes photography gear that is innovative, unique, unusual, and above all, highly functional for photographers.

So while coffee might seem like a strange item to have on my list of the best of the best photography gear for 2020, when you think about it, it’s an essential part of the day for many photographers.

Speaking from experience, I just can’t get my brain to work until I’ve gotten my day kickstarted with some coffee.

Now, I fully admit that I’m a huge coffee snob. I’ve tested dozens of coffees over my lifetime, and I know when I get a great cup of coffee and when the coffee simply falls shot.

f-stop Coffee certainly belongs in the former category...it is quite simply a fantastic cup of Joe!

I first tested their f/1.4 Light Roast, and it was so good that I immediately added it to my 2020 list of the best gifts for photographers under $25.

I’ve now had the chance to take their f/11 Medium Roast and f/22 Dark Roast coffees for a test drive and they proved to be equally as tasty.

I’ve prepared f-stop coffee in two ways - in my Chemex coffee maker and in my French press. In both cases, f-stop’s coffee was tantalizingly good and allowed the different flavors and notes of each coffee to come shining through.

I’m a landscape photographer, so there are plenty of early mornings, late nights, and cold climates for me. f-stop Coffee is just what the doctor ordered when I’m out adventuring and need a pick-me-up. The same goes for right here in my office!

When you combine great taste, a full selection of brews, and inspiration from photography, you get the best coffee for photographers...f-stop!

Learn more about f-stop Coffee

ProGrade Digital 650GB CFexpress Type B Memory Card

A few months back when I bought my Canon EOS R5, I knew that I would need a big, beefy memory card to handle all the data that the camera recorded, particularly when shooting 4K and 8K video.

I needed a card with a huge amount of storage space as well as one that has quick read and write speeds.

The obvious solution was the ProGrade Digital 650GB CF Express Type B memory card...

This card can read up to 1700MB/s and write at up to 1500MB/s. Not only that, but the write speeds are guaranteed not to fall below 1400MB/s. This gives you the consistent speed you need no matter what kind of data is being written on the card, be that 8K video, 6K or 4K video, or fast burst shooting of still images.

Regardless, this card helps keep your camera's buffer clear so you don't miss any action.

On top of that, ProGrade Digital made this card backward compatible with XQD devices. All you have to do is download a quick firmware update and you're ready to roll.

And since this is a shock-resistant, vibration-resistant, temperature-resistant, and X-ray-resistant card, you don't have to worry about durability. It will give you long-lasting performance for years to come.

Plus, this card has features that many other cards don't...

For example, each card has laser-etched serial numbers to help prevent counterfeiting. ProGrade has advanced recovery software that helps prevent your files from corrupting too. On top of that, ProGrade has software that helps keep your card running at peak performance. Called Digital Refresh Pro, this software (which is offered separately) sanitizes your card to keep it at the top of its game.

In other words, this is a beast of a memory card that is worth every penny!

Learn more about ProGrade Digital CF Express Memory Cards

GoPro Hero 9 Black & Media Mod

I've used GoPros for years and years. They have always been innovative little gadgets, but with the Hero 9 Black and Media Mod, these cameras are now becoming a more functional, all-around rig that you can use for much more than crazy adventures.

For those of you like me that had a Hero 8 Black, you'll immediately notice that the Hero 9 Black is bigger. In fact, it's about 10 percent larger.

As a result, some of the mods from the Hero 8 (like the Media Mod) won't fit. That's a bummer, but the trade-off is that the Hero 9 has a larger rear screen and a full-color front-facing screen as well. Having those features is well worth the price of having to buy a new Media Mod.

Another consequence of the larger size is that GoPro was able to fit a larger sensor inside. The Hero 8 has a 12-megapixel sensor but the Hero 9 has a whopping 23.6-megapixel sensor.

As a result of the larger sensor and added resolution, the Hero 9 can shoot 5K video at up to 30p. And for still images, the sensor allows for 20-megapixel photos that have a higher level of crispness than what you get on the Hero 8.

The list of improvements doesn't stop there, either....

There's a new longer-lasting battery that has 30 percent more life. You also get built-in horizon leveling, HyperSmooth 3.0, and Hindsight, which records 30 seconds of video before you press the record button.

The Hero 9 also is also compatible with the new Max Lens Mod that gives you various lens options. You can also shoot 2.7K video at 60fps with a 155-degree angle of view.

Speaking of mods, the Media Mod is one of my favorite GoPro accessories...

It has a built-in 3.5mm jack for an external mic as well as two cold-shoe mounts for adding accessories like the Light Mod.

There's a built-in microphone, which is okay, but definitely not up to par with my RODE mics. You also get an HDMI port so you can quickly review the footage you've shot

I like the design of it too - it fits the Hero 9 perfectly and feels like it's part of the camera rather than an add-on. And speaking of add-ons, there are all kinds of third-party accessories you can add to the Media Mod.

Learn more about the GoPro Hero 9 Black and Media Mod

Canon EOS R5

I was a Nikon shooter for my entire career until I sold off all my Nikon stuff and bought a Canon EOS R.

I decided to make the switch for a number of reasons, not the least of which was the RF lineup of lenses. So, really, the EOS R was a placeholder for me until a professional-grade camera came out to take advantage of the RF lenses. That camera is the R5.

To say that the R5 is the best camera I've ever owned is an understatement.

We all know about its game-changing 8K video capabilities...

And we also know about its 5-axis in-body image stabilization.

But I think my favorite feature of this camera is its Dual Pixel AF system with 1,053 AF areas.

This is an incredibly accurate autofocus system whether you're shooting stills or videos. Its ability to acquire and track a person's (or animal's) eyes is truly impressive. In fact, even when the camera can't see the animal's eyes, it can still figure out where the animal's face and body are.

And then there's all the other awesome specs...

• 45MP full frame sensor
• DIGIC X Image Processor
• ISO Range of 100-51200, expandable to 102400
• 12 fps burst shooting with the mechanical shutter
• 20fps burst shooting with the electronic shutter
• Dual card slots
• 5.76 million dot OLED EVF
• Vari-angle LCD touchscreen
• 2.4/5GHz Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth

I mean, the list goes on and on...

I reserve only my top picks for these lists each year. The products I include have to be innovative in some way, and this camera ticks multiple boxes on that front.

I honestly believe that in 10 years we'll look back at the R5 as being the one that changed how mirrorless cameras are made and what they can do.

I guess we'll have to wait a few years to see if I'm right!

Learn more about the Canon EOS R5

DJI Mini 2

I've had DJI drones for years and years.

My current stable of drones includes the Mavic 2 Pro, the Mavic Air 2, and the original Mini. I recently added the Mini 2 to the fold as well.

Of these drones, my favorite is the Mavic Air 2. I think it's the best drone for the money out there.

However, that doesn't mean that the Mini 2 isn't a really impressive drone...

For starters, there are plenty of upgrades over the original Mini that makes the Mini 2 a huge leap forward.

And some of those new features are things you wouldn't expect on a drone that's priced under $500.

You get 4K video at 24, 25, and 30p, 2.7K video at 24, 25, and 30p, and 1080 video at up to 60p.

It's equipped with Occusync 2.0, which gives you a much stronger signal than the Wi-Fi transmission system on the original Mini, and you get no interference.

The Mini 2 has 4x optical zoom to go with its 24mm equivalent lens.

The 12-megapixel sensor can record JPEG and RAW options, and with a 3-axis gimbal, your images will be sharp and your videos will be beautifully smooth.

You get multiple QuickShot modes, including dronie, circle, helix, Cinesmooth, and rocket. And you have time to cycle through those QuickShot modes with a 31-minute flight time.

There's a new controller as well - the same redesigned one that comes with the Mavic Air 2. The controller has an updated battery too.

Then there's the transmission distance...it's 6.2 miles thanks to the Occusync 2.0 system.

So, you can see why I've counted this little guy as one of the Best of 2020. It has some high-end features while retaining an entry-level price.

If you're considering getting into drone photography and don't want to bust your budget, this is the drone for you!

Learn more about the DJI Mini 2

Holdfast

Holdfast has been one of my favorite photography brands for years.

And it isn't just because they continue to come out with innovative and functional photography gear...

Holdfast also has a high standard of quality that ensures each product is constructed in a way that makes that product reliable, durable, and beautiful too.

I appreciate that the Holdfast team is based in the U.S. and manufactures their goods here as well!

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

Not only is this bag big enough to fit my entire kit, but it does so in a way that keeps my gear organized, safe, and keeps me comfortable carrying it.

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

Just remove the camera insert and you’ve got a gorgeous weekend bag with tons of space for all your clothes and other necessities for a fun few days away from home.

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

Sometimes when you want to go out for a quick shoot, you just need a lean and mean strap for your camera. That's what the MoneyMaker Solo is.

The Solo is a streamlined version of the original MoneyMaker dual-camera strap. In fact, the Solo uses the same leathers and metal materials.

It has a big, contoured shoulder strap that offers you a comfortable carrying experience while the integrated stabilizer strap helps keep the shoulder pad in place. 

The included Belt Anchor adds further stability to the MoneyMaker Solo by keeping your camera locked into place no matter if you’re walking, stooping, kneeling down, or something in between.

Just pull the release tab on the Belt Anchor and your camera is free so you can get the shots you need. A quick one-handed action engages the Belt Anchor again to lock your camera back in place.

The MoneyMaker Solo might be small, but with the ability to add lens pouches or a cell phone pouch, it’s got all the features and functionalities you’d expect from a Holdfast product!

Learn more about Holdfast

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^{Image Credit: Tom Merton via iStock}

Even though we're still firmly in summer, it never hurts to start thinking about what the photographer in your life might like for the holidays this year.

And with a budget of $100, there's some pretty cool things you can get them, too. There's functional items as well!

You might not think that $100 can go very far when it comes to photography gear, but as our list of the best gifts for photographers shows, there's some great ideas that don't break the bank.

Lensfinder

Let’s face it - photography gear can be expensive. Really expensive.

That’s a problem year-round, but when you’re holiday shopping and have tons of gifts to buy, it’s even more difficult to justify getting your loved one the $1,000 lens that they really want.

Fortunately, Lensfinder can help in more ways than one.

On the one hand, you can find great deals on pre-owned camera lenses at Lensfinder. 

That means that you can get a truly top-notch lens for the photographer in your life but do so without busting your budget. It’s a win-win!

On the other hand, if you have some old lenses that you don’t use anymore, you can list them for sale on Lensfinder. When the lens sells, you can use it for holiday spending money for the photographer in your life. 

^{Image Credit: xxmmxx via iStock}

The best part? You can list your lenses for sale for free. 

There’s only a transaction fee (just 3.99%) when the lens sells (with a maximum fee of $500). If your lens doesn’t sell, there’s no charge at all!

And for peace of mind, the Lensfinder platform has advanced fraud filtering for both buyers and sellers as well as mediation services in the event that there’s a problem.

Payments are made and received via PayPal, so you can rest easy knowing that the transaction is safe and secure.

In other words, Lensfinder is the ideal solution for your holiday shopping needs. Either use it to find a loved one a killer lens or use it to sell old gear to pad your pockets for holiday spending!

Learn more about Lensfinder

SANDMARC Telephoto Lens for iPhone XS Max

With Apple's new iPhone XS Max just hitting the market, an ideal gift for the photographer on your list is a high-quality aftermarket lens to extend the iPhone XS Max's capabilities even further.

And for that, SANDMARC offers a 60mm telephoto lens with 2x magnification.

This lens has multi-coated glass that minimizes aberrations. It attaches to the iPhone in two ways - either as a clip-on lens or with the included case, which is the world's thinnest lens case mount.

The construction of these lenses is impeccable - I know firsthand because I have a set of SANDMARC lenses for my iPhone X!

In fact, I've used a ton of lenses for my phones over the years, and I have to say that none have come close to the quality and performance of SANDMARC.

This packages includes the telephoto lens, lens cap, a clip-on mount, a lens case mount, and a carrying pouch.

Best of all, you get high-performance optics for less than $100. Just imagine the possibilities of pairing the best iPhone yet with the best lenses for iPhones that money can buy!

Learn more about the SANDMARC Telephoto Lens for iPhone XS Max

Marumi EXUS 55mm Circular Polarizer Filter

One of the best gift ideas for photographers is a good circular polarizing filter.

A polarizing filter can help a photographer create better photos in a variety of ways...

They reduce glare off non-metallic surfaces like water and also boost the contrast in the sky by making white clouds pop off the blue atmosphere.

Additionally, polarizing filters reduce haze so distant features in the landscape look crisper.

But not all filters are made alike, so be sure to give your favorite photographer the quality and durability of a Marumi polarizing filter.

Marumi has integrated anti-static and stain-resistant coatings to protect the filter and make it more user-friendly.

What's more, it's made from optical-grade glass to ensure photos are as clear and sharp as possible.

Add to that the fact that this filter has a thin profile with low reflectivity, and you have the makings of the perfect gift for photographers under $100!

Learn more about the Marumi EXUS 55mm Circular Polarizer Filter

BlackRapid Curve Breathe Camera Strap

The great thing about the BlackRapid Curve Breathe Camera Strap - well, one of the great things about it - is that it's one of the most comfortable camera straps money can buy.

That's thanks to the fact that it gets the weight of the camera off your neck into a more comfortable carrying position so you can go out and shoot all day long.

That's why this is a fantastic gift idea for photographers this year!

The shoulder pad has moisture-wicking qualities and has a Brad Breathe Stabilizing Strap to ensure that no matter if your favorite photographer is walking through city streets or hiking long trails that the camera stays put under their left shoulder.

Designed to be worn across a right-handed shooter's body, the strap drapes toward the right hip where a connected camera rests upside down. This is the ideal place to carry a camera because it's at one's fingertips yet out of the way when not in use.

In other words, photographers love these straps because they're the height of comfort, they provide excellent functionality, and because with its brass and zinc-alloy hardware, it's durable, too.

Learn more about the BlackRapid Curve Breathe Camera Strap

PolarPro DJI Mavic Air Cinema Series Filter 3-Pack

As popular as drones are these days, it makes sense to include top-notch drone camera filters on our list of must-have gifts for photographers for the upcoming holiday season.

And as far as the best drone filters go, it’s hard to beat PolarPro’s DJI Mavic Air Cinema Series Filters. 

Available in two variations - the Vivid Collection and the Shutter Collection - you can help your favorite drone pilot step up their aerial photography game with production-grade, multi-coated glass filters that have an airframe aluminum construction that won’t add undue weight to their drone.

In the Vivid Collection, you’ll find three neutral density/polarizer filter combinations that allow you to slow the shutter for gorgeous, cinematic videos while also reducing glare off of non-metallic surfaces and boosting the contrast of the sky.

In the Shutter Collection, you get three straight neutral density filters that allow you to extend the shutter speed for smooth video captures without changing the color profile of the footage you take.

In both cases, these collections come with other goodies, namely a hard case to safely store the filters and a lifetime warranty. They simply thread on in place of the stock lens bezel for easy installation, too. That makes these filter packs ideal holiday gifts for the drone enthusiasts in your life! 

Learn more about PolarPro’s DJI Mavic Vivid Collection and Shutter Collection Filters

Marumi 77mm DHG ND-100000 Solid Neutral Density 5.0 Solar Eclipse Filter

We had an incredible solar eclipse here in the U.S. last year, and another one is on the way in 2024.

But there's solar eclipses all around the world quite often, so get the photographer on your list prepped and ready with a high-quality solar eclipse filter from Marumi.

This solid ND filter has a 92,000x filter factor that gives it a whopping 16.5-stops of exposure reduction.

The 5.0 density darkens the whole image, that way the sun can be photographed safely without damaging any of the delicate internal components of a camera.

But this isn't just for solar eclipses...

Because it's so dark, photographers can use it with a big aperture or slow shutter speed to have more control over depth of field and how movement appears in images.

In other words, this is the perfect gift idea for photographers that want to get more creative in the coming year!

Learn more about the Marumi 77mm DHG ND-100000 Solid Neutral Density 5.0 Solar Eclipse Filter

Excire Search AI Plugin for Lightroom

The great thing about Lightroom - well, one of the many great things about it - is that you can use it for processing your images as well as organizing them into catalogs based on keywords so you can easily find the images you want later on.

The problem, though, is that most photographers (myself included) simply upload their images to Lightroom without taking advantage of its organizational capabilities because manually tagging every image takes tons of time. And even if you catalog every single shot you upload to Lightroom, at some point, you’ll have thousands and thousands of images which makes it hard to keep track of them all.

That’s why Excire Search is such a fantastic gift idea for photographers… 

That’s because Excire Search takes all the time and effort out of tagging your photos in Lightroom by utilizing artificial intelligence to identify content in every single image in the Lightroom catalog. There’s 125 different keywords in Excire Search, so it makes tagging photos with common features a breeze.

That process not only results in the identification of objects in photos like “mountain,” “boat,” and “dog,” but it also identifies properties of each photo, like the predominant color. 

Then, all you have to do is use Excire Search to find the images you need from the catalog whether you’re looking for something that’s blue or green, something with a beach or a desert, and so on.

Even better, the folks at Excire have a deep love of photography and a strong commitment to helping photographers further their education and give back to their communities. That’s why with every purchase of Excire Search, they set aside a small portion that goes into a special fund for supporting non-profits throughout the U.S.

In other words, for just $69.00, you can give the photographer on your list the ultimate gift of helping them organize all their photos while also helping give back to the community as well!

Learn more about Excire Search AI Plugin for Lightroom

Sew Trendy Bean Bag and Wrap Set

If the photographer you’re shopping for photographs newborns, then this beautiful Bean Bag and Wrap Set is an ideal holiday gift idea. 

Not only will an accessory like this help the photographer on your list elevate the quality of his or her work, but the soft, high-quality Jersey fabric is delicate on baby’s skin, too.

An absolute studio essential, a bean bag allows photographers to support a baby’s delicate head, neck, and spine while photos are being taken. What’s more, they provide a perfect backdrop for their photos.

And adding a wrap not only helps baby stay warm and comfortable, but it also helps photographers create the heartwarming, cuddly look you see in the photo above. 

Better still, since the newborn set can be matched to a variety of Sew Trendy gowns, photographers can create a cohesive look in their photos of mom and baby.

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Newborn Bean Bag and Wrap Set

Pacific Inkjet 11x14” Professional Luster Inkjet Photo Paper

When photographers print their images at home, they need the best equipment and supplies to get the best prints.

And for my money, it’s tough to beat the quality that Pacific Inkjet brings with their 11x14” Professional Luster Inkjet Photo Paper.

I know that inkjet printing might conjure up thoughts of paper that’s a curled mess, but Pacific Inkjet’s paper is a totally different story. 

At 268gsm, it’s thicker than paper offered by many professional printing labs, which means you can help the photographer on your list print gorgeous photos right from home.

The semi-gloss texture adds depth to photos while the luster finish brings out all the beautiful details and colors in the image.

Images printed on this paper have fingerprint and scratch resistance, too, meaning photos last far longer. 

In other words, for under $100, you can give your favorite photographer the gift of at-home, professional printing with this 100-sheet pack!

Learn more about Pacific Inkjet 11x14” Professional Luster Inkjet Photo Paper

Peak Design SL-AS-3 Slide Camera Strap

One of the most important photography accessories money can buy is a good camera strap, and the Peak Design SL-AS-3 certainly fits the bill.

For under $70, you can give the photographer on your list a strap that's not just stylish, but also functional and comfortable, too.

The strap has strong, removable anchor connectors that attach to the eyelets of a camera, so it can easily support both DSLR and mirrorless systems.

Paired with the strap's adjustable length from 39 inches to 57 inches, it can work as a neck strap, shoulder strap, or sling strap to fit any photographer's preferred workflow.

At 1.8-inches in width, this strap is nice and wide to help distribute the weight of the load across more surface area. The internal padding helps in that department, too.

The two sides of the straps have different properties as well - one side is smooth for sliding your camera to your eye when using the strap as a sling, and the other has a grippy silicone finish that prevents slippage when using it as a neck or shoulder strap.

Having a multi-functional camera strap is one of the best things a photographer can have in his or her arsenal, and as far as multi-functional straps go, it's hard to beat this one!

Learn more about the Peak Design SL-AS-3 Slide Camera Strap

FRDM Midweight Photography Gloves

The worst part of winter (if you ask me, anyway) is trying to stay warm when you’re out taking photos of winter’s beauty.

And the toughest part of your body to keep warm is your hands, because with traditional gloves, you have to take them off to operate your camera. 

Not anymore…

 

The FRDM Midweight Photography Gloves have a three-layer shell that’s breathable, water-resistant, and windproof. If that doesn’t keep your hands nice and warm, I don’t know what will…

But because these gloves were made with photographers in mind, the index fingers and thumbs on both gloves have magnetized caps that pull back, that way you can more effectively press the buttons on your camera and use touch-enabled screens. Not bad, right?

What’s more, there’s touchscreen conductive material on the index fingers and thumbs, so if you don’t want to unfurl the finger caps, you don’t have to!

These gloves also have a silicone screen-printed graphic on the palms that make them extra grippy so you can maintain a solid grip on your camera.

Learn more about the FRDM Midweight Photography Gloves

Bonus Gift Idea - Vanguard ALTA Rise 43 Sling Bag

For the photographer on your holiday shopping list that wants a versatile bag that can carry a ton of gear, the ALTA Rise 43 Sling Bag should be on your radar.

Built to hold a professional DSLR body, 4-5 lenses, a flash and other photography accessories as well as a tablet or small laptop, this bag has plenty of space for all of your favorite photographer’s necessities.

Carrying the bag is a breeze with its Air System back, padded sling strap, and securing strap to keep the load evenly distributed on the body. The bag is protected with padding all the way around, too, so gear will be safe from bumps and bruises along the way.

When it’s time to take a photo, this bag has quick access with side zippers that make reaching gear incredibly easy. The brightly colored interior further makes for ease of use, as your favorite photographer won’t have to dig around in a dark bag to find what they need. And since it’s a sling bag, it’s quick and easy to take on and off, too.

In short, this bag is feature-rich, comfortable to carry, and priced right at under $100!

Learn more about the Vanguard ALTA Rise 43 Sling Bag

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^{Image Credit: Memorystockphoto via iStock}

You'd be surprised at what you can get a photographer for $150.

Bigger-ticket items usually get all the glory, but there are tons of things that photographers want and need that aren't priced out of this world.

Here's some of my favorite photography gift ideas for photographers under $150 that are sure to impress this holiday season!

Lensfinder

Let’s face it - photography gear can be expensive. Really expensive.

That’s a problem year-round, but when you’re holiday shopping and have tons of gifts to buy, it’s even more difficult to justify getting your loved one the $1,000 lens that they really want.

Fortunately, Lensfinder can help in more ways than one.

On the one hand, you can find great deals on pre-owned camera lenses at Lensfinder. 

That means that you can get a truly top-notch lens for the photographer in your life but do so without busting your budget. It’s a win-win!

On the other hand, if you have some old lenses that you don’t use anymore, you can list them for sale on Lensfinder. When the lens sells, you can use it for holiday spending money for the photographer in your life. 

^{Image Credit: xxmmxx via iStock}

The best part? You can list your lenses for sale for free. 

There’s only a transaction fee (just 3.99%) when the lens sells (with a maximum fee of $500). If your lens doesn’t sell, there’s no charge at all!

And for peace of mind, the Lensfinder platform has advanced fraud filtering for both buyers and sellers as well as mediation services in the event that there’s a problem.

Payments are made and received via PayPal, so you can rest easy knowing that the transaction is safe and secure.

In other words, Lensfinder is the ideal solution for your holiday shopping needs. Either use it to find a loved one a killer lens or use it to sell old gear to pad your pockets for holiday spending!

Learn more about Lensfinder

MyCaseBuilder Custom Foam Inserts

Ask any photographer how valuable a solid camera bag with protective inserts is to their business, and they’ll likely put it at or near the top of their list.

After all, a photographer can’t make money unless their gear makes it from point A to point B in one piece, and MyCaseBuilder is a rockstar in making that happen.

For nearly a decade, MyCaseBuilder has been crafting custom foam inserts for photographers that protect their specific gear for their specific hard camera case. 

Not only does that mean that a photographer can rest easy knowing that their camera gear is supremely protected, but MyCaseBuilder also allows customization for how the gear is laid out in the foam insert.

If a photographer wants their cameras on the right side of the insert - can do! Lenses on the right instead? No problem!

Given how delicate cameras and lenses are, having a total protective solution like a custom foam camera case insert is exactly what photographers need to keep on shooting.

That being the case, since you might not know what gear the photographer on your list is using, give them the gift of protection with a gift certificate to MyCaseBuilder so they can custom-create the ideal gear insert from scratch. If you want to spend $50, $150 or whatever your budget will allow, it’s simple to purchase a gift certificate on the MyCaseBuilder.com website.

It’s easy, too - they just pick their case or custom-sized foam, design the layout online by using the Shape Library from MyCaseBuilder (or by using their Photo Tracer technology), and MyCaseBuilder will handle the rest!

Learn more about MyCaseBuilder 

Wolverine Data F2D Titan 8-in-1 High Definition Film to Digital Converter

A question that a lot of photographers have on their minds is, “What can I do with my old 35mm negatives and slides?” If you have one such photographer in the family, think about getting them the ultimate photography gift this holiday season - the Wolverine Data F2D Titan.

This bad boy allows you to convert your old 35mm/127/126 & 110 negatives, slides, 8mm and Super 8 movies into 20-megapixel digital images in mere seconds. Literally - you push a button, and the Titan does the rest without the need for any additional software or even a computer! 

Each scanned image is saved to the Titan’s internal memory, or you can opt to save them straight to an SD/SDHC memory card. You can transfer the images to your Mac or PC for storage or editing, or if you want to quickly view the images, you can hook the Titan up to your TV to watch a slideshow (TV cable not included). 

In other words, this is an ideal gift for photographers that have a ton of old negatives, or even a friend or family member that’s been hanging onto their old memories, but unable to do much with them. Give them the gift of organizing their photos and being able to enjoy their old memories quickly and easily too!

Learn more about the Wolverine Data F2D Titan 8-in-1 High Definition Film to Digital Converter.

Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch

The great thing (well, one of many…) about the Holdfast Sightseer line of bags is that they are modular, so as your kit grows, your bag system can grow along with it.

Part of that modular system is the Sightseer Small Lens Pouch shown above.

These waxed canvas and American Bison leather pouches are lined with Aztec flannel fleece that cradles your lens. The outside is weather resistant and the inside is scratch resistant, giving you the ultimate gift idea for the photographers on your holiday list.

Better still, these pouches can be worn on any belt, on the Holdfast MoneyMaker, or on the exterior of the Holdfast Sightseer Bag, so there’s many different ways for photographers to have their favorite lens right at their fingertips.

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch 

Capturing Couture Camera Bag - Where Fashion Functions for You

Who says that carrying a camera requires a boring bag with no style? 

The photographer on your holiday shopping list will love a beautiful, trendy, and functional camera bag like the Capturing Couture bag shown above. 

These bags are meticulously crafted with premium fabrics and choice hardware to be both stylish and durable. 

With room for a DSLR camera with lens, an additional lens or flash, and other odds and ends, these bags are perfect size to go to the mountains, the beach or anywhere in between.

The full zipper closure and padded interior of the bags to keep all the expensive gear inside safe and sound. With the removable divider, photographers can customize the interior space to their liking as well.

There’s front stash pockets for a smartphone, card readers, car keys, and other accessories, while the exterior pocket on the back boasts a 12-inch-wide by 6.5-inch deep space that’s perfect for carrying a small tablet. There’s even a small interior lined pocket for hiding extra money or credit cards! 

The velvet-lined shoulder strap will have your favorite photographer in ultimate comfort. The adjustable length from 22-inches to 42-inches allows it to be worn over the shoulder or cross-body.

These bags also feature beautiful polished nickel hardware. 

And speaking of looks, Capturing Couture has designed these bags with a removable decorative flap that zips off. That means that with a few extras, photographers can customize the look of their bag to their outfit or the occasion. 

With tons of options in terms of styles, there’s no better bag for the fashion-conscious photographer!

Learn more about Capturing Couture Camera Bags

CanvasHQ 36x24 Canvas Print

If you really want to make a statement with a gift that has true wow factor, a 36x24 canvas print should do the trick!

For the best canvases, you can’t go wrong with CanvasHQ, an experienced printer with a commitment to creating top-quality products. Trust me - I have a number of CanvasHQ prints in my home!

This 36x24 canvas is a great size for a showcase piece on the wall of your loved one’s home. The .75-inch thickness offers just enough depth on the sides of the canvas to give it a little separation from the wall, but without distracting the eye from the gorgeous print. You can even have the canvas placed in a frame later on if you wish, making it a flexible option to meet your gift-buying needs.

And don’t think that ordering a print of this size is a tough process, either. With CanvasHQ, you get free digital proofs so you’re sure that the image meets your wishes. And even if the proofs don’t turn out how you’d expected, no worries! CanvasHQ will make minor tweaks to help you achieve your artistic vision.

Even better, since CanvasHQ is a small, family-owned business, they’re at-the-ready to help make your experience one that you’ll rave about to your friends and family. Call, write, or hit up the live chat with questions or concerns, and a real, live CanvasHQ employee will help you out!

Learn more about CanvasHQ 36x24 Prints

PolarPro DJI Mavic Air Filter Cinema Series 6-Pack

If you’ve got a loved one on your holiday shopping list that’s a drone enthusiast, we’ve got an excellent gift recommendation that will complete their drone experience.

Paired with the awesome capabilities of the DJI Mavic Air, PolarPro’s Cinema Series filters will help your loved one take their drone photography and videography skills to another level with three neutral density filters (ND4, ND8, ND16) and three neutral density/polarizer hybrids (ND4/PL, ND8/PL, ND16/PL).

On the one hand, PolarPro’s DJI Mavic Air neutral density filters help reduce the shutter speed so video recording has an ultra-smooth, cinematic feel. On the other hand, PolarPro’s Vivid Collection of neutral density/polarizing filters help reduce glare and boost the contrast of the sky.

Amongst all the ways that this filter pack can enhance photos and videos, it’s important not to lose focus on the impeccable construction. After all, you want to give a gift that will keep on giving, not one that falls apart in short order.

Since PolarPro is dedicated to manufacturing the best filters, you get a product that is ultra-light (just 0.59 grams) thanks to its airframe construction, yet is packed with features like production-grade multi-coated glass with eight layers of coatings on each side. You can see these filters in action in the video above.

And since these filters thread on in place of the stock lens bezel that comes with the Mavic Air, installation is a breeze and you get better gimbal balance, too.

Throw in free shipping and a lifetime warranty, and you have a recipe for the ideal gift this holiday season!

Learn more about the PolarPro DJI Mavic Air Filter Cinema Series 6-Pack

Parrot Teleprompter V2 Kit by Padcaster

Photographers these days aren't just taking still photos. Instead, they're creating video content like vlogs to build a following on platforms like YouTube.

To make the videos that the photographer on your list creates even more professional, the Parrot Teleprompter V2 Kit is an ideal Christmas gift.

The teleprompter uses an iOS or Android device and the Parrot Teleprompter app to turn your phone into a teleprompter virtually anywhere. It's simply crazy how portable this thing is!

The 70/30 beamsplitter glass on the teleprompter then clearly displays the text that's to be read. Never again will your loved one have to fear messing up what they want to say on camera!

With quick and easy setup, a variety of step-down rings to adapt the teleprompter to most threaded lenses, and a Bluetooth remote that allows you to start, stop, and adjust the speed of the scroll, this rig has everything your favorite photographer will need to say what they want to say in their videos in a professional manner.

Learn more about the Parrot Teleprompter V2 Kit

Excire Search Pro AI Plugin for Lightroom

Ask any photographer what they love most about Lightroom, and my guess is that a large percentage will say the cataloging and organizational tools that the program offers.

But follow that up with a question about the worst thing in Lightroom, and you’ll likely get a lot of answers along the lines of “manually tagging my photos really sucks.”

If only there were something to address that problem quickly and easily…

Lucky for the photographer on your holiday shopping list, there is. It’s called Excire Search Pro.

Since we apparently already live in the future, Excire Search Pro uses artificial intelligence to scan each photo that’s uploaded to Lightroom and tag them according to what’s found in the image. Excire Search Pro has a set of more than 500 keywords that can be transferred into a photographer’s Lightroom catalog, making it the easiest way to tag photos. 

For example, if there’s a photo of a mountain scene on a cloudy day with a cabin in the foreground, Excire Search Pro will tag that image with “mountain,” “clouds,” and “cabin.” It’ll even determine the predominant color in the shot and add that tag, too. Not bad, right?! 

Excire Search Pro offers an expanded keyword transfer function, too, making it the perfect partner for professional photographers that have tens of thousands of images that need to be highly organized for easy image searching.

So, let’s say that you need a photo of a river at sunset with yellow as the predominant color. Excire Search Pro makes it incredibly easy to find that specific kind of photo.

As if the technology behind Excire search isn’t impressive enough, consider this - these guys are passionate about imaging and want to make a positive mark on the community. That’s why they set aside a small portion of the proceeds of each Excire Search pro purchase into a fund to support non-profit organizations throughout the U.S. 

That makes the gift of Excire Search Pro not just a great idea for the photographer in your life, but for people around the country, too! 

Learn more about Excire Search Pro 

Sew Trendy Libby Bodysuit

A perfect gift for the maternity or boudoir photographer on your holiday shopping list is the Libby Bodysuit by Sew Trendy Fashion & Accessories.

This all-lace strapless bodysuit is simple, yet elegant, and will complement any maternity or boudoir portrait nicely. 

The soft stretch bodice offers a comfortable fit, as does the adjustable sweetheart top. The bodysuit is double-layered for full belly coverage as well.

With soft elastic in the legs, this bodysuit will fit snugly, but won’t ride up. 

Better still, Sew Trendy offers this gorgeous bodysuit in 40 colors and various sizes from XXS-XXL, so no matter what, your favorite photographer can find the exact look they want!

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Libby Bodysuit

Bonus Gift Idea: Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp

For the photographer on your list that head’s out early and stays out late to shoot, a bright yet small headlamp is a must-have.

That’s why the Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp is such a great gift idea for photographers this holiday season.

This little guy puts out an impressive 350 lumens, so your favorite photographer can see exactly what’s in front of them.

There’s two beam patterns - wide and mixed - so photographers can select whichever one meets their needs, and the option to use red lighting prevents blinding others in the party (and from interfering with images, too). Of course, the standard beams can be used to light paint to create awesome nighttime images with a beautifully illuminated foreground.

This headlamp uses Petzl’s CORE battery technology, which means a couple of important things…

First, it’s rechargeable, and second, you get long-lasting performance between charges.

Better still, the CORE battery can be charged via USB port for those occasions when actual plugs are at a premium. This awesome headlamp can also use standard batteries without the need for an adaptor, too.

If you’re looking for a practical and functional gift for a photographer, this headlamp is it!

Learn more about the Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp

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^{Image Credit: mikkelwilliam via iStock}

Here we are in August, and before you know it, December will be here and you'll be in a panic with your holiday shopping.

So why not be prepared this year and start searching for that perfect gift for the photographer on your list?

To help you get your holiday shopping started early, we've put together this top 10 list of gifts for photographers.

Each of these items is priced below $250, so you can get your favorite photographer an awesome gift without breaking the bank.

Without further ado, here's our favorite gift ideas for photographers for 2018.

Lensfinder

Let’s face it - photography gear can be expensive. Really expensive.

That’s a problem year-round, but when you’re holiday shopping and have tons of gifts to buy, it’s even more difficult to justify getting your loved one the $1,000 lens that they really want.

Fortunately, Lensfinder can help in more ways than one.

On the one hand, you can find great deals on pre-owned camera lenses at Lensfinder. 

That means that you can get a truly top-notch lens for the photographer in your life but do so without busting your budget. It’s a win-win!

On the other hand, if you have some old lenses that you don’t use anymore, you can list them for sale on Lensfinder. When the lens sells, you can use it for holiday spending money for the photographer in your life. 

^{Image Credit: xxmmxx via iStock}

The best part? You can list your lenses for sale for free. 

There’s only a transaction fee (just 3.99%) when the lens sells (with a maximum fee of $500). If your lens doesn’t sell, there’s no charge at all!

And for peace of mind, the Lensfinder platform has advanced fraud filtering for both buyers and sellers as well as mediation services in the event that there’s a problem.

Payments are made and received via PayPal, so you can rest easy knowing that the transaction is safe and secure.

In other words, Lensfinder is the ideal solution for your holiday shopping needs. Either use it to find a loved one a killer lens or use it to sell old gear to pad your pockets for holiday spending!

Learn more about Lensfinder

Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AP Tripod

When it comes to tripods, it's hard to beat the combination of innovative features and pricing that you get with Vanguard.

Their Alta Pro 2+ 263AP tripod kit gives the photographer on your list everything they need, from a 3-way fluid pan head for smooth panning to a multi-angle center column for positioning the camera for unique points of view to the angled rubber feet that keep the tripod right where it needs to be.

This tripod is also lightweight due to its aluminum and magnesium construction, but it can still hold a solid 11 pounds of gear.

Its three-section legs offer various angle positions - 20, 40, 60, and 80-degrees - that way your favorite photographer can get the tripod positioning just right for the specific shot they want.

What's more, Vanguard has added features that make this a highly practical tripod.

There's a canopy suspension loop where weight can be added to improve stability.

There's also an integrated bubble level to help keep the horizons straight in landscape photos.

The bonus Alta Link 3/8-inch thread connection is great for adding accessories like a reflector, articulated arms, or other needed tools.

Add in non-slip, all-weather TPU grips on two legs, an included bag with shoulder strap, and quick and easy setup, and you have the makings of an awesome tripod for less than $250!

Learn more about the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AP tripod

Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

^{Photo by Brandon Burk}

Designed specifically for single camera shooters, the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo is a perfect choice for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

Famed for their MoneyMaker dual camera strap, Holdfast has now brought their impeccable designs and commitment to quality products to bear for shooters that don’t need two or three cameras on their person.

Worn as a sling strap, the MoneyMaker Solo has a big, soft, contoured shoulder strap that ensures that you’ll have a comfortable carrying experience whether you’re only out shooting for a couple of hours or if you’re out shooting for an entire day.

With an integrated stabilizer strap, the MoneyMaker Solo will stay put on your shoulder so you don’t have to worry about it slipping off.

What’s more, you can use the Holdfast Belt Anchor to give the Solo even more stability, it locks the camera to your belt, no more flopping around as you maneuver and bend over while working. Then a quick pull on the release tab as you grab your camera and you’re ready to take the shot!

As well, you can also use all of the Holdfast Gear accessories with the Solo like a Holdfast Cell Phone Pouch or Lens Pouch. See how it all comes together in the video above.

Just like the original MoneyMaker, the MoneyMaker Solo gives you unparalleled freedom of movement so you can get the shots you want without having your gear in the way.

In that regard, the MoneyMaker Solo ticks all the boxes - it’s highly functional, incredibly comfortable, works without getting in your way, and it looks like a million buck!

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

Pana-Vue Pana-Scan Portable Stand-Alone Combo Scanner

You’re certain to have a special someone on your holiday list this year who has tons of old photos, negatives, and slides lying around their house. 

And for that person, the ideal gift this holiday season is the Pana-Vue Pana-Scan Portable Stand-Alone Combo Scanner from Argraph.

Going digital has never been so easy as it is with this high-tech, easy-to-use scanner.

Whether your loved one has photos, 35mm negatives, 110 and 126 Instamatic negatives, or 35mm slides, they can bring their memories into the 21st Century.

Not only is this scanner quick and efficient, but with its anti-glare technology, users can scan photos right from existing photo albums without removing the prints - especially important for old, fragile photos. 

If they have loose photos, this rig will scan up to 4x6 prints (as well as slides and negatives) into 14-megapixel digital files. All this can be done without a computer, too!

It takes just moments to complete the scan, and at that point, users can view the scanned images on a TV, send the images via email, share the images on social media, or even print the images. 

There’s simply not an easier way to digitize old photos than with Argraph’s Pana-Vue Combo Scanner!

Learn more about the Pana-Vue Pana-Scan Portable Stand-Alone Combo Scanner

PolarPro Quartzline Filters

Lens filters are by far one of the most valuable accessories you can buy to improve the quality of your photos, which is why filters are such a great holiday gift idea for the photographer in your life.

But not all lens filters are made alike. In fact, most filters out there aren’t worth the money.

There are other lens filters that absolutely knock it out of the park, though. At the top of that list are the Quartzline Filters from PolarPro.

What sets these bad boys apart from the competition is the fact that they’re made of 99.9% pure fused quartz.

Not only does quartz offer better optical clarity than glass, but it’s also far more durable, too. 

That means you can buy your loved one an awesome filter that has a lifetime warranty. That mean it will last them a good long while!

These filters have a single lens element that produces a very low refractive index of 1.46. They have excellent temperature stability as well. With a hyper neutral color profile, near perfect target transmission, multi-coatings (16 layers!) for enhanced resistance to scratches, anti-reflectivity technology, an anti-oil coating, water resistance, and reduced vignetting, these filters are among the best performers on the market today.

Paired with the top-notch quartz element is an over-engineered brass filter frame that makes threading it onto a lens a breeze. Naturally, the brass frame is highly durable, too. 

You get a microfiber lens cloth for cleaning, a soft filter pouch, and a hard case for storage as well. There’s even a lifetime warranty that covers you if anything happens to the filter (apart from losing it).

With UV, circular polarizers, 3-stop to 15-stop neutral density filters, and polarizer/neutral density filter combinations available in a range of sizes, you’re sure to find the right lens filter for the photographer on your list.

Learn more about PolarPro Quartzline filters

CanvasHQ

If you ask me, one of the best gifts you can give someone during the holidays is a photo of a memory that you’ve shared together.

And I don’t mean a 4x6 paper print in a cheap frame, either…

This holiday season, you can make a bold statement by giving the gift of a fine art canvas print from CanvasHQ. 

Whether it’s a photo of you with a loved one, a landscape photo that a loved one took, or something in between, turning it into a large-format canvas print is a perfect gift.

CanvasHQ does it right, too.

Their commitment to quality is second-to-none, that way you’re assured of a canvas print that has vibrant and long-lasting colors. That’s thanks to the water-resistant, UV-resistant, and scuff-resistant inks they use on their fine art poly-cotton blend canvases.

Even the frames behind the canvas show a commitment to quality - they’re handcrafted from artist-quality, kiln-dried stretcher bars that will keep the canvas tight and flat for a lifetime. 

Add to the equation the fact that there’s a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, quick turnaround times, complimentary proofs, and tons of customization choices, and you have the makings of a great gift for loved ones this holiday season! 

Learn more about CanvasHQ canvas prints

Holdfast MoneyMaker Original

Earlier on this list, I suggested the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo for single camera shooters on your holiday list. Well, if you have a loved one that needs two (or even three) cameras right at their fingertips, the original Holdfast MoneyMaker is for them!

This rig puts two cameras right at your sides, and with an optional camera leash, you can carry a third camera on your chest. That means more variety of shots with cameras with different lenses, an elimination of lens changes, and no more having to dig through your camera bag to find the gear you need. 

Instead, the MoneyMaker puts all your gear right where you need it most - on you! And if you think that carrying three cameras with lenses and other accessories would be uncomfortable, you’re probably right - if you carry all that stuff with another camera strap.

But because the MoneyMaker is so well made, it distributes the weight of your gear evenly across your shoulders and back. What’s more, the bridle leather will mold to your body over time, meaning it will fit like a glove. There’s nothing more comfortable than that! 

On top of it all, the MoneyMaker looks fantastic, has stainless steel hardware that’s durable and won’t rust, and is weather-resistant. You can even carry a Holdfast bag on the MoneyMaker to make it an even more appealing way to transport your gear.

In other words, this thing is a game-changer for photographers. The combination of form, function, and price is hard to beat!

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Original

Sew Trendy Jaden Gown

^{Emj Photography}

Maternity photographers are always on the lookout for beautiful clothing and accessories for their clients, which is why this stunning gown from Sew Trendy Fashion & Accessories would make such a great holiday gift!

The Jaden gown features a fashion-forward design from the slouch 3/4 style sleeve to the elegant form-fitting bodice that hugs the curves of the model to the widening of the gown at the knee for the height of elegance.

The soft heavy-knit stretch fabric offers the ultimate in comfort without sacrificing a sophisticated look, too.

^{Amber Fite}

This gown - which is handcrafted in the USA - is offered in both maternity and non-maternity versions, making it an even more versatile gift for the photographer on your list.

The non-maternity version could easily be worn for engagement photos, family portraits, senior photos, and more.

Sew Trendy has been in the business of helping photographers style their maternity and non-maternity photo shoots as well as newborn photo shoots since 2012, and in that time, has established itself as one of the premier clothing and accessories companies for photographers in the world.

If you have a photographer on your holiday list that needs to step up their styling game, the Jaden gown (or any other number of gowns, crowns, and other accessories) from Sew Trendy will make the ideal gift!

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Jaden gown

Petzl NAO + Headlamp

A good headlamp is a great asset for a photographer to have, and with a budget of $250, you can give your favorite photographer the ultimate headlamp in the Petzl NAO +.

I can attest that this is a rockstar of a headlamp because I own one!

It's got an incredibly powerful and bright beam that puts out a whopping 750 lumens that allows me to see what I'm doing when I'm out late at night in Joshua Tree, Yosemite, and other deep, dark locations.

It's an intelligent headlamp, too...

It can be programmed via the MyPetzl Light app, which can also be used to monitor remaining burn time. If you find that juice is running low, simply use the app to adjust how the headlamp is performing to extend the battery life.

On top of that, this rig has Reactive Lighting technology, which gives it the ability to adapt its light output to your needs.

It does so by analyzing the ambient light and instantaneously adjusting the brightness of the light to suit the conditions.

If it sounds like a crazy, futuristic device, that's because it is!

Petzl has outdone themselves with this thing because it's not just packed with features and incredibly functional, but it's comfortable to wear, too.

Learn more about the Petzl NAO + Headlamp

Formatt-Hitech 100 x 100mm Firecrest Ultra ND 3.0 Filter

The Firecrest Ultra line of filters from Formatt-Hitech are among the best you can buy for the photographer on your list.

This 100 x 100mm ND 3.0 filter is no exception...

With impeccable construction with excellent clarity and reduced reflectivity, this solid ND filter will be the perfect gift for photographers that want to experiment with long exposure photography.

The 3.0 density darkens the entire image, allowing photographers to reduce the exposure by 10 full stops.

The result of that is gorgeous indicated movement with blurry clouds, water, cars, and other moving elements.

This filter undergoes multiple lapping and polishing processes as well, which ensures that it's ultra flat and provides excellent sharpness.

In other words, if you're looking for a perfect gift for photographers under $250, this is it!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech 100 x 100mm Firecrest Ultra ND 3.0 Filter

Bonus Gift Idea: Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Filter Holder Kit

The great thing about the 100mm Firecrest Filter Holder Kit from Formatt-Hitech is that it's designed with both convenience and functionality in mind.

The photographer on your holiday list will be able to use up to two 100mm filters up to 2mm thick (sold separately), along with an included circular polarizer.

The kit is fully assembled, so it's a simple matter of attaching it to the desired lens, adding the filters, and starting shooting.

The holder has light-eliminating covers that minimize stray light, that way photographers get the shot they want without any aberrations.

Additionally, the aluminum-alloy filter holder has plastic filter slots in place, so adding filters is a breeze. What's more, these slots are held in place by four screws, which applies pressure to the filters to keep them in place.

If you want to give the best filter holder on the market to your favorite photographer, consider this feature-packed holder kit!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Filter Holder Kit

Bonus Gift Idea: A Nifty Fifty Lens

Ask just about any photographer what their first lens purchase was, and they'll say a Nifty Fifty. That makes it the ideal gift idea for photographers this holiday season!

There's a lot to love about 50mm lenses, too...

For starters, it's a great focal length for learning all kinds of photography, from landscapes to portraits and everything in between.

That also makes it an incredibly versatile lens.

In fact, put a 50mm lens on your camera, and you can shoot all day long without ever needing a different focal length. They're even great for shooting video!

You can find 50mm lenses with large apertures, too, like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM shown above.

At f/1.8, photographers can more readily shoot in low-light conditions without having to push the ISO too high, which helps reduce digital noise.

Having a large aperture like that is also beneficial for gathering tons of light, that way a faster shutter speed can be used. It's also helpful for blurring the background in portraits to get a more professional-looking shot.

Another benefit of a 50mm lens, like the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G shown above is that they force you to think more creatively about how you frame up your shots.

That is, since 50mm lenses have a constant focal length of 50mm, there's no zoom to rely on for getting close-up or wider shots. 

By using a 50mm lens and "zooming with your feet," becoming a master of composition can be an easier task because you're forced to physically move further away or closer to the subject.

Of course, the biggest benefit of 50mm lenses is the price. You can find Nifty Fifties for any camera system, like Canon and Nikon as mentioned above, as well as Sony and others, like Panasonic, as well.

Regardless of the manufacturer, these lenses are well-priced so you can bestow a great little lens with tons of functionality and versatility upon your favorite photographer without busting your budget.

That sounds like a win-win deal to me! 

Learn more about 50mm lenses from Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Sony

---

^{Photo by franckreporter via iStock}

I'm writing this the first week of August, so as you can imagine, it's a little weird talking about holiday gifts.

However, the first seven months of 2020 have flown by - despite the challenging circumstances - so I figured the next four months would be equally as fast. I might as well start naming my top gifts for photographers now, that way you have time to pick up the items you want for yourself or for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

While $250 might not seem like a big budget for photography-related gear, you might be surprised at what you can find for less than that price point.

Below are ten of my favorite photography gifts for $250 or less.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: CanvasHQ Print 

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

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

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

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

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. We’re talking archival-grade canvas, commercial-grade inks that are water and UV resistant, and kiln-dried pine frames to keep everything straight and true.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

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

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

In the video above, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: ViewSonic VG1655 Portable Monitor

Sometimes you need a bright, portable monitor, and for those occasions, the ViewSonic VG1655 is a great option.

This monitor has a frameless IPS 15.6-inch screen and weighs a mere two pounds. It has two-way power, dual USB-C ports, a stand cover, and a screen protector. It can be used in portrait or landscape orientation.

To help reduce eye strain, the monitor has a blue light filter. The flicker-free technology gives you a beautiful picture to view as well.

You can use this monitor with laptops, PCs, and Macs and comes with a three-year warranty. There are even dual built-in speakers!

Learn more about the ViewSonic VG1655 Portable Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Haida NanoPro MC Variable ND Filter

One of the best things about having a variable ND filter in your camera bag is that you can replace multiple ND filters with a single one.

That might not sound like a big deal, but for me (and many other photographers), it's nice to be able to streamline your camera bag and your photography workflow while you're at it.

What's so nice about the Haida NanoPro MC variable ND filter is that you get 4-stops to 9-stops of variability. This allows you to attack all sorts of long exposures in different lighting situations. Additionally, you can increase the aperture to control depth of field for beautiful background blur in your images.

This particular variable ND filter has nano multi-coatings on both sides of the glass that improves beading when the surface comes in contact with oil or water. So not only does it protect the filter glass, but this coating also results in a much more efficient cleaning process.

Speaking of efficiency, Haida included visual cues on the front filter ring that represent the different density values. This helps you dial in the desired density settings both easier and faster, and allows you to repeat the process more easily as well.

Where some variable ND filters reduce the overall clarity and color accuracy of the images you take, Haida has protected against both of these problems by using optical glass. Each surface also includes 10 layers of anti-reflection coatings to minimize internal ghosting and reflections.

You can also use this filter with other filters thanks to the front filter threads. Add in a side lever for easy rotation, a plastic case to protect the filter during transport, and a price WELL below the $250 mark, and you have the makings for one heck of a holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list!

Learn more about the Haida NanoPro MC Variable ND Filter

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: A Pre-Owned Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 Lens

Ask just about any photographer what their first lens purchase was, and they'll say a Nifty Fifty. That makes it the ideal gift idea for photographers this holiday season!

There's a lot to love about 50mm lenses, too...

For starters, it's a great focal length for learning all kinds of photography, from landscapes to portraits and everything in between.

That also makes it an incredibly versatile lens.

In fact, put a 50mm lens on your camera, and you can shoot all day long without ever needing a different focal length. They're even great for shooting video!

You can find 50mm lenses with large apertures, too, like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM shown above.

At f/1.4, photographers can more readily shoot in low-light conditions without having to push the ISO too high, which helps reduce digital noise.

Having a large aperture like that is also beneficial for gathering tons of light, that way a faster shutter speed can be used. It's also helpful for blurring the background in portraits to get a more professional-looking shot.

Another benefit of a 50mm lens is that they force you to think more creatively about how you frame up your shots.

That is, since 50mm lenses have a constant focal length of 50mm, there's no zoom to rely on for getting close-up or wider shots. 

By using a 50mm lens and "zooming with your feet," becoming a master of composition can be an easier task because you're forced to physically move further away or closer to the subject.

Of course, the biggest benefit of 50mm lenses is the price. These lenses are well-priced so you can bestow a great little lens with tons of functionality and versatility upon your favorite photographer without busting your budget.

That sounds like a win-win deal to me! 

Learn more about the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

^{Photo by Brandon Burk}

Designed specifically for single camera shooters, the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo is a perfect choice for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

The MoneyMaker Solo features impeccable designs and a commitment to quality for shooters that don’t need two or three cameras on their person as the original MoneyMaker provides.

Worn as a sling strap, the MoneyMaker Solo has a big, soft, contoured shoulder strap that ensures that you’ll have a comfortable carrying experience whether you’re only out shooting for a couple of hours or if you’re out shooting for an entire day.

With an integrated stabilizer strap, the MoneyMaker Solo will stay put on your shoulder so you don’t have to worry about it slipping off.

What’s more, you can use the Holdfast Belt Anchor to give the Solo even more stability, it locks the camera to your belt, no more flopping around as you maneuver and bend over while working. Then a quick pull on the release tab as you grab your camera and you’re ready to take the shot!

As well, you can also use all of the Holdfast Gear accessories with the Solo like a Holdfast Cell Phone Pouch or Lens Pouch. See how it all comes together in the video above.

Just like the original MoneyMaker, the MoneyMaker Solo gives you unparalleled freedom of movement so you can get the shots you want without having your gear in the way.

In that regard, the MoneyMaker Solo ticks all the boxes - it’s highly functional, incredibly comfortable, works without getting in your way, and it looks like a million buck!

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Insta360 GO

Photographers these days are almost as much about video as they are about still images. And for that reason, a camera that captures video is a must.

But not everyone wants a traditional video camera. That's where the Insta360 GO comes in...

This tiny stabilized camera shoots 30-second or 60-second clips with the press of a button. From those clips, you can find the best still frames if you wish, all with the help of artificial intelligence.

In addition to being stabilized, the Insta360 GO features Hyperlapse, automatic editing, timelapse, and slow-motion capabilities.

Using the Barrel Roll feature, you can adjust the rotation of the shot with a simple swipe. It's also water-resistant and can even withstand a quick dunk in the water.

Transferring files is as simple as plugging the camera into your phone. And with a battery that can handle about 200 shots on a charge, you can amass a lot of images and videos!

Learn more about the Insta360 GO

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: PolarPro Apex Minimalist Tripod 

While PolarPro might be better known for their impeccable lens filters, they've expanded their product line to include many other useful tools, like the Apex Minimalist Tripod.

But don't let this tripod's small stature fool you...

It is every bit a PolarPro product with robust construction, superb design, and top-notch functionality.

The smaller form factor of this tripod not only makes it a perfect companion for mirrorless or smartphone photography, but it's also a perfect addition to any photographer's travel bag.

The tripod can be completely locked into place by using PolarPro's excellent TiltLocks.

These locks allow you to lock the tripod down in many different orientations, that way you can get the precise shot you envision.

Additionally, this tripod comes with PolarPro's Apex ball head, removable rubber feet with aluminum spikes inside, and a 35-degree angled plate release know, which enables you to hot-swap other tripods and mounts.

And since this tripod is 95 percent aluminum, it's lightweight and durable at the same time.

If the you or the photographer on your holiday shopping list have been itching for a robust, yet small tripod, the PolarPro Apex should be something you take a long, hard look at.

Learn more about the PolarPro Apex Minimalist Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: H&Y K-Series Filter Holder

Another top pick for your favorite photographer is a rock-solid lens filter holder.

For my money, it doesn't get any better than the filter holder shown above - the H&Y K-Series.

What sets this filter holder apart from the rest is the quality of construction. Where many filter holders are made of plastic, this one is crafted of aluminum to give you the durability you need without adding unnecessary weight.

This particular holder also comes with a drop-in 95mm circular polarizer that features SCHOTT glass. The glass gets an HD polishing technique that improves light transmission so your images have even more reason to shine.

This circular polarizer also has multiple nano coatings that make it scratch-resistant, oil-repellant, and water-repellant.

Of course, a high-quality filter holder needs to minimize light leaks, and the K-Series is more than up to the task.

There are foam seals that prevent light from leaking in, that way the results you get with your images fulfill your precise vision.

Plus, this is a magnetic holder, so you can use any of H&Y's magnetic rectangular filters (like this one).

This is a filter holder system that's well designed, well built, and worth every single penny. The photographer on your list will love having this bad boy in their kit!

Learn more about the H&Y K-Series Filter Holder

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: HEX Ranger Clamshell DSLR Backpack 

 

The folks at HEX have a passion for what they do, and it shows in the products they design and create. 

I actually have a HEX Ranger DSLR Sling Bag. Talk about a camera bag!

But if the photographer on your list needs to carry more gear than I do, the Ranger Clamshell DSLR backpack is a prime choice.

With a capacity of 21 liters, this bag can hold a ton of gear - a DSLR with lens attached, a couple more lenses, a laptop, a drone, and accessories, in fact! 

The clamshell design makes it easy to see your gear, retrieve it, and put it away. And with fully customizable inserts, you can make the bag work for you no matter what arrangement of gear you need.

The all-important comfort factor is off the charts, too. It has ergonomic shoulder straps that hug your shoulders and fit perfectly. The air mesh construction will keep your shoulders and back cool as well. 

Additionally, HEX included a custom molded and foam padded back panel, that way even when you’re carrying a heavy load, you’ll still be comfortable. 

With tripod straps on the bottom, side straps for attaching more gear, a hidden rain cover, a water bottle pocket, and tons of other handy features, this is a bag that the photographer on your list will love, without a doubt 

Learn more about the HEX Ranger Clamshell DSLR Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: EF to E-Mount Lens Adapter

If the photographer you're shopping for used to be a Canon shooter and now has a Sony camera, you can give them this handy adapter that allows them to use their old EF and EF-S lenses on a Sony E-mount camera, like the a6300, a6400, a6500, a9 or a7, among many others.

This adapter has both autofocus function and aperture control, as well as a handy USB port for firmware updates.

You can switch between phase and contrast autofocus modes, and there's EXIF signal transmitting and IS functionality too.

There's simply no easier and more functional way to pair Canon lenses with a Sony E-mount camera!

Learn more about the EF to E-Mount Lens Adapter 

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

Looking for a gift with a ton of visual appeal without it having a huge impact on your bank account? Look no further than an HD Metal Print from Artbeat Studios!

The great thing about an HD metal print is that it can be put just about anywhere in a home or office and immediately draw the attention of anyone that sees it. That’s due to the high-quality materials that Artbeat Studios uses to craft their prints.

For example, you can choose between a glossy or matte finish, where a glossy treatment adds depth to the image and creates a lot of drama and a matte finish eliminates glare and offers a more subtle viewing experience.

What’s more, you can choose from natural or black wood wall mounts, or if you prefer, silver or black aluminum wall mounts to further customize how the print looks. The mounts can be recessed from the edge of the print to give it the appearance that it’s floating on the wall, or you can opt to have the mount flush with the edges of the print to give it a little more depth and heft.

No matter how you choose to customize the print, it’ll be well worth the money!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios HD Metal Prints.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Pre-Owned Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Whether the photographer on your list is just starting out and needs a solid first camera or is more experienced and wants a second camera body that's easy to handle and travel with, the E-M10 Mark II is a great option.

This camera is super small and lightweight, making it an easy addition to any camera bag.

But despite its small size, it's loaded with features that your favorite photographer will appreciate.

It has a 16.1-megapixel micro four thirds sensor paired with an 81-point autofocus system.

This camera has five-axis in-body image stabilization, a native ISO range from 100-25600, and 8fps burst shooting capabilities.

Additionally, this little Olympus offers 1080p HD video at up to 60fps, a beautiful electronic viewfinder, and a 3-inch LCD screen.

This camera is several years old, but still has many top-notch features that photographers today will enjoy. You'll enjoy the small price tag just as much!

Learn more about the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

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

Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

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

As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

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^{Photo 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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^{Image Credit: blackred via iStock}

One of the most important photography accessories you can own is a good set of filters.

The operative word here is "good"...

There's lots of dirt cheap filters out there that might entice you with a bargain basement price. However, those filters often use bargain basement materials, too. That's not what you want in front of your lens!

Instead, investing in high-quality filters will get you better results - and more durable filters to boot.

If you're in the market for new photo filters, consider any of the following as a good bet.

Best Lens Filters: NiSi V5-Pro 100mm Advanced Kit

If you're a landscape photographer, there's nothing better than a top-of-the-line filter kit that sets you up with all the goodies you need to create epic images.

NiSi's V5-Pro 100mm Advanced Kit includes a 100mm filter holder, a NiSi 0.9 Soft ND Grad, and three neutral density filters (3-stop, 6-stop, and 1-stop).

Additionally, you get a NiSi Reverse ND filter, a circular polarizer, and multiple adapter rings for fitting the kit to lens threads that run from 67mm up to 82mm.

On top of all that, you also get a cleaning cloth, an air blower, a cleaning eraser, and a carrying case.

It's truly an all-in-one kit that gives you the tools you need to control glare, manage dynamic range during sunrise or sunset, even out bright skies and dark landscapes, and create breathtaking long exposures.

And with NiSi's stellar reputation as one of the top manufacturers of lens filters, you know that with this kit, you'll get high-quality, durable products that will last you for years and years to come.

In that regard, this NiSi filter kit is a long-term investment that will more than pay for itself over the years.

Learn more about the NiSi V5-Pro 100mm Advanced Kit

Best Lens Filters: Kenko Professional Variable NDX Filter

Why carry a bunch of different neutral density filters when Kenko has a variable ND that offers you a range of light-stopping power from 1.3-8.5 stops?

Available in 77mm and 82mm sizes, this filter offers a practical use factor range of ND2.5-450, and is extendable to ND1000.

Kenko crafted this filter by taking two pieces of the highest-quality polarizing glass and mounting them opposite each other.

That means that when you turn the filter ring, the filter darkens or lightens as you see fit.

Not only is this kind of filter invaluable for controlling exposure, but it also lets you get beautiful creative blur for long exposure photos.

When maxed out, this filter allows you to utilize a shutter speed that's several seconds long, even when shooting in full sun.

 

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

 

And because Kenko has devised a depolarizing plate that's included in the filter, you get hyper-neutral color balance in the image.

No color shifting, a wide range of light stopping power, and top quality materials make this one of the top lens filters of the year.

Learn more about the Kenko Professional Variable NDX Filter

Best Lens Filters: Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter

If it's a circular polarizer you're after for your kit, the Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter should be a top choice for consideration.

These lens filters are the top-selling filters in Japan, and they're now available in the U.S.

They have optical glass that's coated and polished so that they resist environmental conditions like water and oils from your skin.

Additionally, the Nyumon series filters have a SLIM mounting ring to minimize vignetting when using wide-angle lenses.

Available in sizes from 37mm to 82mm, these filters are compatible with a wide range of lenses for Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Fuji, Tokina, and many other major brands of lenses.

Better still, these filters are priced very well, so you can get a top-quality filter without breaking the bank.

Learn more about the Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter

Best Lens Filters: Formatt Hitech Firecrest 3-Stop ND Filter

With its Firecrest technology, this ND filter from Formatt Hitech offers neutral color rendition across multiple light spectrums including UV, visible, and infrared light.

This Firecrest coating is sandwiched between the layers of filter glass, which gives it the ultimate protection from damage.

And since the filter glass itself is made in the United Kingdom using Schott Superwite glass, you know that it's not just durable and dependable, but is also some of the best optical glass available today.

These 100x100mm filters are compatible with a variety of filter holders, including those from Formatt Hitech, Lee, and NiSi.

And with a range of filters available from 1-stop to 16-stops, there's no shortage of selection for you to get precisely the amount of light-stopping power you need!

Learn more about the Formatt Hitech Firecrest 3-Stop ND Filter

Best Lens Filters: B+W Circular ND Filter

If a circular ND filter is more your style, look no further than this model from B+W.

This particular example offers 6-stops of light-stopping power, which means a shutter speed of 1/60 seconds can be extended to a full second.

Because it has a higher transmission of red tones, the filter also has a slightly warming effect on the color of your images.

With a truly neutral gray design, Water-White Schott Glass construction, and brass threads, this little ND filter offers you tons of benefits at a more than reasonable price. There's even multiple sizing options and filter factors as well!

Learn more about the B+W Circular ND Filter

Best Lens Filters: PolarPro Quartzline ND 8/Polarizer Hybrid Filter

What's not to love about this Quartzline filter from PolarPro?

Not only is this filter made of 99.9% pure fused quartz that gives it unrivaled clarity and incredible durability, but it's also a neutral density/polarizing filter hybrid.

That means you get the best of both worlds for extending your shutter speed while also boosting contrast in the sky and managing glare off non-metallic surfaces.

The filter glass has optical coatings that give them hyper-neutral color profiles with enhanced resistance to water and scratches.

What's more, PolarPro has crafted the filter housing out of brass, that way they thread on smoothly while providing the utmost in durability.

In addition to a top-quality filter, you also get a microfiber cloth for cleaning, a soft filter pouch, and a hard filter case for protecting your filter when it's not in use. There's even multiple sizes and ND strengths to choose from as well.

Learn more about the PolarPro Quartzline ND8/Polarizer Hybrid Filter

Best Lens Filters: Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizing Filter

The Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizing Filter is one of the best available on the market today.

With their high-grade optical glass that improves durability and a satin finish on the filter housing that reduces reflections, you have a filter that's tough, smartly designed, and inexpensive to boot.

The filter has six coatings - including an anti-static layer that prevents dirt and dust from sticking to the glass. There's also an ultra-low reflective layer to minimize reflections.

On top of that, this filter is just 5mm thick, which lessens its profile on the front of your lens. That means less vignetting when shooting with a wide-angle lens and at a wide aperture.

From 37mm up to 105mm, Marumi has a circular polarizer for just about any lens!

Learn more about the Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizing Filter

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