Samy's Photography Articles

We Recommend

50mm or 85mm: Which is Best for B-Roll?

Written by PT Editor on 13 February 2020.

what lens is best for b roll

^{Photo by Dave Craige on Unsplash}

A great way to enhance your finished videos is to add in B-roll footage while editing. A-roll is footage that can tell the story on its own without anything added as explanation. B-roll is extra footage that doesn’t tell the story, but supports the A-roll in fleshing out the story.

How to actually get good B-roll video and edit it into your finished video requires some good choices. One choice is what lenses for shooting video to use. Other choices are where to add it and how much of it to use.

The Best Lens for B-Roll

lens for b roll 1

^{Photo by Kyle Loftus from Pexels}

As far as useful video tips, the best one I ever got was to listen to everyone and everything, but then choose what actually fits me. As a new photographer, and even as an established pro, I received suggestions and tips about lenses all the time.

Certain lenses are better suited for some applications than others. The trick is to determine which lens best fits the applications you want to use that lens to accomplish. Two lens focal lengths that have both general and specific jobs they are well suited for are the 50mm normal lens and the 85mm short telephoto.

Learn More:

Crop Factor Confusion

lens for b roll 2

^{photo by WangMing'Photo via Pexels}

You may have noticed that I’m using descriptive labels for these lenses that correspond to full-frame 35mm format. If you are using one of the cropped formats like APS-C or MFT, then the crop factors of 1.5X and 2.0X applies to what focal lengths are equivalent.

To get close to the same field of view, lenses of 35mm and 57mm for APS-C are similar, for MFT it would be 25mm and 42.5mm. A quick search of actual lenses close to these numbers reveal several 25mm and 40mm lenses for MFT and 35mm and 60mm lenses for various APS-C cameras.

b roll tips 3

^{Image by Benjamin Balazs from Pixabay}

Of course, you could also use the 50mm and 85mm lenses on the crop cameras, but crop factor will make them act like other focal lengths. MFT gives you 100mm and 170mm, APS-C gives you 75mm and 127.5mm.

It can get a little confusing to think back and forth about crop factors and focal lengths, so we will concentrate our discussion on full-frame format. Crop factor could fill up a whole article on its own. So, let’s examine our choices of 50mm and 85mm lenses.

The Nifty Fifty

b roll tips 4

^{Photo by Vojtech Okenka from Pexels}

One of the most versatile lenses for photography and videography is the 50mm normal lens. Using a 50mm lens for B-roll is one of the more beneficial video tips. It’s a good lens for general use and for A-roll, too.

The Nifty Fifty gives what is considered a normal perspective and field of view (FOV) in photos and video. They can be very budget friendly and are generally compact in size and have a wide maximum aperture. These lenses also tend to be close focusing and have pleasant bokeh when shot at wide apertures.

b roll tips 5

One of the better choices for many videographers could be the Nikon 50mm f/1.8 lens. Granted, this lens is in the Nikon F mount, so it is primarily meant to be used on Nikon DSLR cameras. With an f-stop of f/1.8, you can capture good images in low light or employ selective focus techniques.

This is also one of the most affordable lenses in 35mm digital photography. It actually costs less than several of the speedlights for Nikon cameras. All of these reasons make the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G lens one of the best lenses for shooting video and a great lens for B-roll.

Here is an interesting video covering the use of a 50mm lens for B-roll from Jeven Dovey, an experienced videographer and vlogger:

With all of these pros, it sounds like a no brainer as the perfect lens. However, as one of the most important video tips ever, I must sadly inform everyone that there is no perfect lens. So sorry!

Among the cons for this fine lens is the normal focal length itself. Even though you can focus very close with most 50mm lenses, if you focus close on a person, the apparent perspective will not be flattering.

While not as extreme as with wide angle lenses, the perspective exaggeration of a person’s face with a 50mm is enough to be noticable. So if you want to crop in closer on a person, either a headshot or head and shoulders, a short telephoto might be a better lens for B-roll.

Learn More:

Short Telephoto Lens - 85mm

video tips 5

^{Photo by Luis Quintero from Pexels}

Long a favorite of portrait photographers, short telephotos in the approximately 80mm to 100mm range make excellent lenses for shooting video. What makes an 85mm lens a good lens for B-roll footage?

One of the finer examples of short telephoto lenses I’ve had the opportunity to use is the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM lens. If you are a Canon shooter, this lens is well worth the money. It’s expensive, as all of the L-Series lenses from Canon are, but the quality is outstanding.

video tips 6

One of the reasons for using an 85mm lens for B-roll is to avoid the the facial elongation seen in wide to normal lenses when shooting people close up. A fast 85mm also gives you great bokeh and separation of subject to background when shot at wide apertures. For an 85mm lens, f/1.4 is pretty fast.

Watch this video from Peter McKinnon that explains some of the advantages of using 85mm lenses for shooting video B-roll:

The cons of using a fast 85mm lens include the aforementioned high price, large size, increased weight, and generally larger filter diameter. For what you can get from a high quality short telephoto, those cons can be viewed as being just part of the deal for using it as a B-roll lens.

Quality B-Roll Equals Great Video

lenses for shooting video 7

^{Photo by Kyle Loftus from Pexels}

Since you are going to all the trouble to shoot and edit it B-roll, you want to get the best out of your efforts. Both the 50mm and 85mm lenses are good choices as lenses for shooting video B-roll and primary footage.

Besides lens choice, other techniques, tricks, and tips for video B-roll can be found on our site. Browse around for ideas for videographers from beginner to advanced users. Whatever lens choice you make, shooting B-roll will enhance your videos. A 50mm and an 85mm lens are fantastic options, you really couldn’t go wrong with either one. Or both!

We Recommend

A Simple Product Photography Setup

Written by PT Editor on 03 January 2022.

A Simple Product Photography Setup

^{photo bycarlosrojas20 via iStock}

We say a lot about methods, techniques, and skills on PhotographyTalk, and I love teaching, learning, and sharing in this way. I also like to share ideas concerning the equipment we use to make use of these many skills we have gained.

For instance, I often get asked about certain styles of photography and what gear would be beneficial for doing these styles. Such as what might go into a well-rounded product setup - cameras, lenses, lighting, backdrops, tripods, and other accessories.

Small Product Photography

product photography

^{photo byPekic via iStock}

Product photography as a genre can include many different things. Food photography, recipe photography, personal items for auction sites, making images for use by us or others in commercial websites for retail sales, and photography for illustrating articles or instructional materials all qualify as part of product photography.

If you are looking for ideas of how to get into product photography, you might find our latest series of articles on food photography to be helpful. In addition to showing how to do product photography, these articles also highlight some ideas for a workable product photography setup, since food photography can be considered a form of product photography.

While much of what we do as product photography ends up also being a form of tabletop photography, all of those skills and techniques are usable for making images of products. Same with still life techniques, though some of the artistic interpretations may get slightly toned down for straight-up product images on a retail website.

Camera and Lens

photography gear 2

A product photography setup begins with our camera and lens choices. Almost any modern kit of digital cameras, DSLR or mirrorless, can be used for small product photography.

An entry-level camera with the regular kit lens can be used for this genre, but many photographers find that certain additional features and the more robust build of pro and prosumer cameras and lenses can make a more useful product photography setup.

In APS-C format, we find many usable options in both mirrorless and DSLR style. The crop format of APS-C is great for a product photography setup that is budget-friendly. As an example, take a look at the prosumer level DSLR Nikon D7500. Paired with the DX only macro lens Nikon 40mm f/2.8G AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor lens and you have a nice product photography setup with a sharp, fairly fast lens that can also be used for general photography and videography.

Mirrorless cameras in this format are excellent for making a pro-level product photography setup, often adding professional-level video capabilities, too. The Fujifilm X-T4 is a super capable camera for many professional endeavors. Fujifilm XF 80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro lens offers a slightly more telephoto focal length which is sometimes preferred for product photography.

beginner photography tips 2 1

You’ll notice we’re keying in on macro lenses in a prime focal length for our product photography setup recommendations. Prime lenses are usually faster than zoom lenses in similar ranges of focal length, plus macro lenses are specially corrected for low distortion, super sharp, ultra closeup imaging.

Fans of Full Frame format will want to look at the mirrorless Sony Alpha a7IIcamera. It’s incredibly budget-friendly for a Full Frame format camera and can be the cornerstone camera for a product photography setup.

Third-party manufacturers are making amazingly sharp lenses in mirrorless Full Frame lens mounts. Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art lens in Sony E mount is a prime example. The focal length is an awesome choice for a product photography setup, slightly longer than normal, just a little telephoto. The fast lens aperture allows selective techniques to be used for our images.

Learn More:

Lighting Choices

taking photos of products at home 1

A small product photography setup is going to need versatile and color-correct lighting. We have two options, flash or continuous. Being portable is important for any on location shoots, so battery power and light weight are preferred by some. AC-powered units are often brighter and sometimes a little more budget-friendly and can also be very portable.

Off-camera lights are also generally more useful in a product photography setup since 2 or 3 lights on stands provide us with the capability to use several different lighting configurations for our product photography.

Out of the two options first listed, continuous LED lighting is extremely versatile. They can be easily moved around for the different light configurations, are a cool light, have excellent color correction, and can also be used for videography.

Smith Victor LadyBug 1500 LED 3-Light Kit with Boom Arm is a good choice for a product photography setup. The LED bulbs emit much less heat than incandescent or quartz lights, the boom arm is perfect for overhead shots such as flat lays, and it’s a complete kit with stands and a carrying case.

Backdrops

simple product photography setup

Backdrops are an important part of a product photography setup, the backdrops from Best Ever Backdrops are designed with food photography in mind and are excellent for all sorts of small product photography.

These backdrops are small and easy to transport and yet are super strong and durable. A great thing about these food photography backdrops is that they are double-sided. You can mix and match colors, textures, and photo-realistic themes for all kinds of product photography.

best ever backdrops

The Skylar Collection has several patterns and colors that would work well as part of a product photography setup. Pair the cool tones of the Skylar Burt Afterglow with a dark warm rustic tone such as the photo-realistic Skylar Burt Black Feather for added versatility.

Backdrops for food photography make excellent all-around backdrops because they are water-resistant, very durable, and look great.

Camera Supports and Tripods

photography gear 1

Another vital piece of a complete product photography setup is the tripod. Instead of opting for a very lightweight travel tripod, a good, heavy or medium-duty tripod with lots of movements will probably be more useful in product and food photography.

Aluminum and carbon fiber legs are sturdy and lightweight, and a versatile head is beneficial for all of the varied configurations of our product photography. The Manfrotto MT055XPRO is a great tripod for this. It’s unique 3-way head is extremely versatile and the center column also extends horizontally for lat lay photography.

Shoot Video, Too!

photos of products

^{photo by5PH via iStock}

Many clients also ask for video as part of a product or food photography job in addition to all of our stills, so many of these recommended items for a product photography setup can do double duty.

Modern digital cameras have very good video modes, continuous lights can be used for still and video, and even our tripods with versatile heads (or an added fluid head) can be used for double duty.

A camera remote, wired or wireless and a good pair of sturdy and comfortable shoes rounds out our ideas for a basic and very capable product photography setup.

Learn More:

We Recommend

Audio Recording Tips for Videographers

Written by PT Editor on 19 February 2020.

Audio Recording Tips for Videographers

^{Photo by Keegan Checks from Pexels}

Do you want some useful audio recording tips for video cameras? Fully half of an A/V project is sound. Audio/Visual. They even put it first! Maybe it’s just an alphabetical order thing.

Current digital cameras are capable of recording amazing-looking video footage. They are also capable of recording audio. But what keeps many videographers from actually having great sound on their recording is relying on the built-in mics of DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.

Seriously, the camera sensors are phenomenal and the lenses are extremely sharp. The mics are generally pretty good for their size, but we can do better. The best types of microphones for video are off-camera mics.

Simple To Use

audio recording tips 1

^{Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels}

When searching for audio recording tips that relate to their own videos, some videographers might be led to believe that achieving high-quality audio recordings could turn into a difficult chore. It doesn’t have to. Superb sound can be realized by simply plugging in an external mic to your camera.

What are the best types of microphones for video shot with our favorite digital camera? Three common choices are lavalier, shotgun, and handheld. Each of these microphones has a specific characteristic or two that will blend in with your personal style of videography.

Some microphones can be plugged directly into your camera. Some are best used plugged into a mixing board and recorded on another digital recording tool. Many mics have wireless options as well. We’ll show you three different mics but you can use the information to shop for other audio recording gear too.

Lavalier Mic

audio recording tips 2

^{Photo by Rodrigo Souza from Pexels}

Lavalier mics are small microphones placed near the mouth of the subject speaking. The name refers to a style of jewelry worn around the neck. Early lavalier mics were large, strapped to the chest, pointing directly toward the mouth. Think of telephone operators from the early 20th Century.

Modern lavalier mics are small enough to be clipped to the lapel, tie, or breast pocket of the subject's clothes. One of the more interesting audio recording tips I learned from recording live stage performances is that you can also put a lavalier mic in a performer’s hair to give the illusion of a mic-less performance. Works best with longer hair, of course.

lavalier

One of the better examples of a lavalier mic can be found at Samy’s Camera, the Tascam DR-10L Digital Audio Recorder with Lavalier Mic. What sets this apart from other lavalier mics is that it’s a recording device, too.

It can record in BWF to make editing easier. Sync up the recorded audio with the in-camera footage with an editing program to bump up the quality of the audio in your videos.

Shotgun Mics

types of microphones for video 3

^{photo by filadendron via iStock}

A shotgun is one of the easiest types of microphones for video that a videographer can use. It can mount directly to the camera to enhance the built-in audio recording capability of your DSLR or mirrorless camera.

shotgun

Shotgun mics like the Rode Microphones VideoMic GO On-Camera Shotgun Microphone are lightweight, too. If using a shotgun mic outdoors, a good audio recording tip is to make sure you put a wind sock on it. You are using an off camera microphone to improve the audio portion of your A/V production, so don’t degrade the quality of the sound by allowing wind noise to be recorded.

Plugged into a wireless transmitter or a compact recorder, you could also place a small shotgun mic anywhere you want to put it with a low profile mount such as the OctoPad. Check out the review below for more details on that device.

Learn More:

Handheld Mics

types of microphones for video 4

^{Photo by Caleb Oquendo from Pexels}

A handheld microphone is a great way to add high-quality voice audio to instructional vlogs, presentations, or musical performances. If you plan on plugging directly into your camera, you will need to ensure you have the proper type of cord attached. Adapters exist for some of the most common configurations.

An important audio recording tip is that a handheld microphone with an XLR connector can provide very clean audio when plugged into a mixing board or an auxiliary audio recorder. Be careful not to fiddle around too much with the mic in your hand to avoid extraneous noise.

handheld

A high-quality example of a handheld mic can be seen in the Sennheiser E835 Cardioid Handheld Dynamic Microphone. Another good pro audio recording tip is to employ a microphone stand for handsfree use of a handheld mic.

Extra Pro Audio Tips for Video Recording

audio tips for video 5

Whichever type of microphone for video you end up using, a couple of other methods can be employed to increase the quality and performance of your sound recording.

If you have the budget and the space for them, a mixing board and a digital audio recorder can increase the quality of the sound recorded. There are versions of these devices that are battery powered for use in the field, others are more comfortably used in a home or office studio.

Audio files aren’t just for vocal or music recording. A Foley artist can use these same tools to manufacture additional noises in order to enhance your video productions.

Check out this informative YouTube video about Foley from Academy Originals:

As one more of my audio recording tips, try out some of the simple audio-only editing programs to make files you can then insert by means of your regular video editing equipment and programs.

audio tips for video 6

^{photo by EvgeniyShkolenko via iStock}

Any way you look at it, having great audio to add to your excellent video footage will enhance your finished A/V projects!

Learn More:

We Recommend

Beginner Video Lighting Tutorial

Written by PT Editor on 28 February 2020.

Beginner Video Lighting Tutorial

^{Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels}

For those of you that are just beginning as a vlogger, YouTuber, or other type of videographer, here are helpful video lighting tips and recommendations of how to set up video lights.

A video lighting tutorial will help for any kind of camera, too. Videographers using smartphones, point and shoot (P&S) cameras, or entry level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras can all benefit from a video lighting tutorial.

Basic Video Lighting

video lighting 1

^{Photo by Rodolfo Clix from Pexels}

Video can be recorded under many different lighting conditions including sunlight and ambient indoor lighting. Creative camera and subject placement can make up for many issues encountered with natural light.

In order to have greater control over your video lighting, you will need to either supplement or replace the available light. This is accomplished with reflectors, screens, backgrounds, and video lights. Since it’s video, any artificial lights used should be continuous lights.

In my continuous light kits, I prefer the LED and CFL options over quartz or incandescent bulbs. They emit color-balanced light without producing too much heat. LEDs and CFLs also tend to be more energy efficient and are generally budget-friendly.

One, Two, or Three Lights

video lighting 2

^{Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels}

Depending on the specific style of video or vlog you are filming, you can use just one light or a combination of lights. When using 2 or more lights, it’s usually best to set one of the lights as the main light or key light.

The key light is what provides the majority of illumination for the scene. A second light at lower power or a reflector can be used as a fill light. Fill light fills in the shadows caused by the key light. You can choose how much contrast to have in the video lighting by raising or lowering the power of the fill light.

Most of the special lighting techniques can be done with two lights. A third light can be added as a background light, a hair light, or a rim light. This third light is sometimes filtered to a different color than the primary lights for added interest.

The video lighting tutorial from Primal Video is a good primer. Check it out above.

Let's discuss some ideas for continuous lights to use as video lighting for several different styles of videography.

On Location / On Camera

video lighting tutorial 3

A small, battery powered LED light is perfect for when you’re shooting video on location. If it’s small enough, you can actually mount it on the camera itself. The LitraPro LED light from Litra is just such a light.

The battery life of this small lamp is good for up to 90 minutes, and it has variable power plus adjustable color temperature to help you blend the light with ambient lighting. The CRI of ths tiny light is 95, meaning it has a very natural appearance in finished videos.

Mounting this light on your camera is a valid option when shooting on location with a single light. Other options for light placement are light stands or an action mount such as the OctoPad. You could put one light on camera and another off to a side for creating portrait lighting effects.

Learn More:

Small Studio Video Lighting

video lighting tutorial 4

If you have access to AC power outlets, a two light kit with CFL bulbs is a very versatile and budget friendly choice. An example of this type of video lighting kit is the RPS Studio 2 Light Octagonal Softbox Kit.

This kit can be used in your home, office, studio, or on location provided you can plug in to power. The soft boxes provide an excellent diffused quality to the light. Using up to four CFL bulbs per lamp, you can get a ton of light out of this kit.

It’s portable enough to go on location as needed. The soft boxes fold up like umbrellas and the entire kit fits in the supplied carrying case. Having two equal lights with power adjustment, you can use several of the lighting methods for portraits and products. The CFLs are daylight balanced and cool operating.

Vlogging or YouTubing

video lighting tutorial 5

One of the best types of video lighting for vlogging such as instructional videos, product demonstrations, or close up interviews is a ring light.

video lighting tips 6

^{Photo by Ali Pazani from Pexels}

A ring light is just what it sounds like. A circle of light is shown on the subject and the camera lens shoots through the open hole in the middle. What this does is make the video lighting virtually shadowless since the light falls on the subject from all angles and directions at once. It especially has the shadowless quality when used for close up filming.

One of the better models of ring lights is the Godox LR180 LED 18” ring light. The inside hole is 14 inches and the light is powered by AC power. It’s small, light, and rugged, so you can transport to any location where you can plug in the light.

The subject matter that benefits the most with this type of video lighting are close-ups of faces, head and shoulders, and small items that need to show a lot of detail. Mounted on a light stand or a multi use mount, you can shoot selfie style videos for vlogging, even if using a smartphone.

A full-featured camera store like Samy’s Camera is a great source for quality products, good advice, and even tutorials and courses. If you feel as though you’re lacking the know-how to improve the quality of your videos, Samy’s can help!

Video Lighting Made Simple

how to set up video lights 7

^{Photo by freestocks.org from Pexels}

Using continuous video lighting, you can keep your camera on automatic exposure and autofocus, letting you concentrate on being creative and producing good videos.

Many of the special lighting configurations are very simple to set up, becoming second nature to you after a while of using them. Have fun with it all and watch your video viewings grow as you get better and better.

Learn More:

We Recommend

Best Camera for Product Photography

Written by PT Editor on 11 January 2022.

Best Camera for Product Photography

Whenever I come across an article about what is the best camera, lens, flash, tripod, or whatever for portraits, weddings, wildlife, product photography, architectural photography, or whatever, in the back of my mind I’m saying “Is there really only one best?”

I have two main reasons for this thought. One, there are SO MANY amazingly excellent cameras for all types of photography and all types of photography. And two, every photographer is different, having some tastes and desires that vary from other photographers.

Here’s the thing, though. I still read every article and learn something from them. Weird, huh? I just love being a photographer and I love teaching it, too. So, with that in mind, here are my current thoughts on what is the best camera for product photography.

Format and Type of Camera

Looking at the 3 most used digital formats for serious photography, MFT, APS-C, and Full-Frame, which is the best camera for product photography?

From the perspective of total usability including post-processing, I’m going to opt for the two larger formats, APS-C and Full-Frame.

MFT mirrorless pro and prosumer cameras are super performers for quality imaging and virtually perfect for all videography, but the size of the pixels are smaller for the same resolution, so there isn’t as much capability in low light performance and I also think that still imaging color management is not quite equal to the two larger formats.

This isn't to say that a photographer couldn’t use MFT (Micro Four Thirds / Micro 4/3rds) cameras for professional product photos, simply that a larger format offers some very real benefits for professional photography.

So, as we’re searching for the best camera for product photography, we’re zeroing in on APS-C and Full-Frame format cameras. So now the question becomes between Mirrorless cameras and DSLRs, what camera is best for product photography?

In APS-C format, I’m comfortable with either type for any of the 3 levels of entry-level, intermediate, and full-fledged professional. For a Full-Frame format, full-fledged professional-level camera, I’m going to endorse mirrorless, I’ll explain why in a moment.

Must-Have Features

Must Have Features

For any serious photography, there are certain features and capabilities that I see as must-have for being in the running for best camera for product photography.

Interchangeable lenses, manual exposure control, and manual focusing are the 3 basics I feel are basics for any serious photography. While I love all the different automations in modern cameras, sometimes we simply need control to adjust properly for creating what we want.

Other features I like to recommend are exposure bracketing, spot metering, and adjustable focus points. These features ease our workflow when working with many genres of professional photography.

Another important feature is a very high-resolution rear viewscreen, articulated or tilting is preferred, with the ability to magnify live view for critical focus confirmation.

4K video recording is a must-have for me now, but Full HD 1080p is acceptable for many uses. I find it interesting how many clients for still photography I’ve worked with for years are now requesting 4K video footage of their products in addition to the high-resolution still images they still want.

Learn More:

Best Camera for Product Photography - Entry-Level

Best Camera for Product Photography Entry Level 1

An entry-level idea for the best camera for product photography can go with either a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. Mirrorless cameras may be an easier move for stepping up from smartphone photography or getting back into photography as former point-and-shoot film camera users, but the least expensive choices are going to be DSLRs.

Best Camera for Product Photography Entry Level 2

Best camera for product photography, entry-level APS-C mirrorless: Sony Alpha a6100 with 16-50mm lens. This APS-C format mirrorless camera has a 24.2mp sensor, can capture 14-bit RAW files, records video in 4K, and has a high-resolution tiltable rear viewscreen. Sony lenses are excellent, plus you can use a mount adapter for all sorts of legacy lenses since it is a mirrorless camera.

Best Camera for Product Photography Entry Level 3

Best camera for product photography, entry-level APS-C DSLR:Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm lens. Hands down the winner in low price for a superb camera, this camera has a 24.1mp sensor, records video in Full HD, and has a bright non-moveable rear viewscreen. The closest competition for price is theNikon D3500 with 18-55mm lens that has almost identical features.

Best Camera for Product Photography Entry Level 4

Quickly add a prime focal length macro lens from either the manufacturer or a good third-party brand such as the Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro to supplement the very sharp but slower aperture kit zoom lenses.

Best Camera for Product Photography - Intermediate or Prosumer

Best Camera for Product Photography Intermediate or Prosumer 1

Basically, any camera that has features and build quality that appeals to intermediate photographers can be used as a prosumer-level camera. Prosumer meaning it is priced for a consumer market but having many of the features of higher-end pro cameras.

First, we’ll list APS-C format cameras.

Best Camera for Product Photography Intermediate or Prosumer 2

Best camera for product photography, prosumer APS-C mirrorless: Fujifilm X-T4 with 16-80mm lens. 26.1mp sensor, 4K video, and a large vari-angle viewscreen. Fujifilm is a major player in high-resolution medium format digital cameras, their expertise in all aspects of imaging is evident in any of their cameras.

Best camera for product photography, prosumer APS-C DSLR: Nikon D7500 with 18-140mm lens. Perhaps one of the best bargains in prosumer quality cameras, the Nikon D7500 has 4K video, tilting viewscreen, and a 20.9mp sensor.

And now an awesome option for a Full-Frame format mirrorless camera.

Best Camera for Product Photography Intermediate or Prosumer 3

Best camera for product photography, prosumer Full Frame mirrorless: Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 with 20-60mm lens. If you’re looking to break into Full-Frame photography and want excellent video capability along with a budget-friendly price, this hybrid camera may be your best choice. 24,2mp sensor, 4K video, and a fully articulated viewscreen.

Top Pro-Choice Best Camera for Product Photography

Top Pro Choice Best Camera for Product Photography 1

This category has been ruled by DSLRs since digital Full-Frame started, but I think mirrorless is the future for high-end digital photography. The ability to use virtually any 35mm format lens ever made via adapters and the amazing video capability of these cameras are two reasons I personally lean this way.

There are many other reasons the industry is strongly leaning this way, so I see it as the way to go from now on. So, with that in mind…

Top Pro Choice Best Camera for Product Photography 2

Best camera for product photography, Full-Frame mirrorless, pro-level: Canon EOS R5 with 24-105mm lens. All I can say is WOW, what a camera! 4K video, 45mp sensor, 8K video (yes 8K), articulated viewscreen, and more features than I can list in this brief write-up. Follow the link and judge for yourself how good a camera it is.

Well, now you have my list of options for the best camera for product photography, have fun following the links! Enjoy making great images, too.

Learn More:

We Recommend

Best Lens for Product Photography

Written by PT Editor on 27 December 2021.

Best Lens for Product Photography

^{photo bygrinvalds via iStock}

In the capitalist world of small businesses and startups we live in, product photography has never been more in demand. That’s terrific news for you, since it means infinitely more potential clients in the sea!

At the same time, due to this heavy demand, more and more photographers every day are deciding to dip their feet in and test the waters of product photography. How on earth are you supposed to stand out amongst the crowd?

Well, one fantastic way to improve both the quality of your product photography, and make a great impression on clients, is by having the best lens for product photography! But what lens is best for product photography? That depends on you!

The first question to ask yourself is whether you want the extra crispness of a prime lens or the versatility of a zoom lens? After that, the two main factors you will want to consider when deciding on the best lens for product photography are, focal length and image sharpness.

The sweet spot for focal length in product photography is generally considered to be between 85mm and 105mm. All of my top recommendations, regardless if it’s a prime lens or zoom lens, will fall somewhere in this range. Additionally, all of them produce stunning images with outstanding sharpness!

So with that being said, let's dive in and discover the best lens for product photography for each camera brand, and where to buy them!

Best Lens For Product Photography - Sony Users

Sony FE 90mm f2.8 Macro G OSS Lens 1

The Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS Lens is Sony’s premier macro lens, and without a doubt the best lens for product photography if you are a Sony shooter! Personally, I shoot with Sony and this is my go-to lens whenever I am doing product work for a client.

What makes this Sony’s best lens for product photography you ask? For starters, the 90mm focal length is right in the heart of the 85mm-105mm zone I spoke about earlier. I recommend pairing it with a full-frame camera if you want best results. It still works great on an APC-S camera, but technically you will be shooting at a length of 135mm due to the 1.5x crop factor.

Sony FE 90mm f2.8 Macro G OSS Lens 2

Next, the Sony 90mm offers 1:1 magnification which makes it easy to get extremely sharp images of even the smallest products! If you shoot jewelry, this is an unbelievable product photography lens!

In addition, the lens has built-in image stabilization and a low f-stop of f2.8. The OSS image stabilization means you can get stellar handheld shots, and the f2.8 aperture creates a creamy bokeh effect.

The only downside of the Sony 90mm is the price, but with that said, you definitely get what you pay for, because the quality is absolutely crazy! If you are looking for an amazing deal, try checking out Samy’s Camera, they are always running deals and promotions on their new products, and oftentimes have used cameras in stock for bargain prices as well!

Best Lens For Product Photography - Nikon Users

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24 200mm f4 6.3 VR Lens 1

TheNikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR Lens is an excellent choice if you prefer to have a zoom lens for product photography! While the clarity isn’t quite comparable to a prime lens, it’s still very good, and on top of that you get a ton of versatility!

With a variable focal length of 24-200mm, no matter what sort of product you are shooting, you will never have to switch lenses. At 24mm you can photograph large items like furniture, or even use it for real estate photography. Whereas fully zoomed in at 200mm you can capture even the tiniest details of any product.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24 200mm f4 6.3 VR Lens 2

Another rad feature is the DX crop mode. If you pair the Nikon 24-200mm with a DX camera, you can shoot at the equivalent of 300mm! While that may be overkill most of the time in product photography, having the option to zoom in like that can sometimes be a huge advantage.

Other things I love about this lens are the built-in vibration reduction (VR), how lightweight it is, its video versatility, the customizable control ring, and its weather-resistant build. As far as zoom lenses go, this is unquestionably the best lens for product photography!

Learn More:

Best Lens For Product Photography - Canon Users

Canon EF 100mm f2.8L Macro IS USM Lens 1

TheCanon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Lens is one of the most popular product photography lenses of all time. First released in 2009, this lens has been creating award-winning images since the day it came out, and still today it’s in the running for the overall best lens for product photography!

The 100mm focal length is ideal, and it’s images have been scored as some of the sharpest from any Canon lens. Furthermore, the colors in this lens are super vibrant and will help make your images pop!

Something else I love about this lens is the large and easy-to-control manual focus ring. Autofocus is great, but when shooting product photography you will always be able to get crisper images if you change over to manual focus. If you do decide to shoot in manual focus, a quick tip is to throw the camera on a tripod. If you don’t have steady hands, trying to focus manually when shooting handheld can often be a challenge!

As an older lens, there are plenty of Canon 100mm lenses on the second-hand market. Samy’s Camera always has a wide selection ofpre-owned lenses andopen box lenses that are constantly changing, and it’s a fabulous place to look.

Additional Lenses to Consider for Product Photography

what lens to use for product photography

^{photo byfocalmatter via iStock}

Hopefully now you have decided what lens to use for product photography! If you’re not quite sure don’t worry, take a look at these other terrific lens options! One of them may very well be the best lens for product photography for you!

Learn More:

We Recommend

Best Lenses for Content Creators

Written by PT Editor on 06 January 2020.

Best Lenses for Content Creators

_{Photo by Anna Auza on Unsplash}

Guess what content creators are great at? Selling stuff. Selling a way of life, a creative vision, a story...you name it.

Part of being able to sell that vision means having the right gear, and no gear is more important than the lenses used to create videos.

The focal length of the lens can have a tremendous impact on the way the video sequences you shoot are framed, and framing is one of the most important aspects of composition and telling a visual story.

There are so many lenses for content creation available in 2020. How do you figure out which ones are the best lenses for video?

Well, you break them down into more manageable categories, which is exactly what we have done below!

Wide-Angle

wide angle

This 24mm T/1.5 Cine Lens for Canon is the perfect wide-angle lens for content creators. At $500 at Samy's Camera, it provides content creators with the capability to capture all of the action during a wide-angle scene while looking dramatic, but it also allows you to shoot tight shots when you get in close to the subject.

Wide-angle lenses are one of the best lenses for video because they can be used singularly if you don’t have any other types of lenses on hand. That makes this an ideal option for the budget-conscious content creator.

The only downside to shooting all of your video with a wide-angle is that your tight shots will be a little bit distorted.

In the video above, Think Media outlines exactly why a wide-angle lens can be the best lens for you.

Learn More:

Standard

standard

Sony’s FE 50mm f/1.8 is a great example of one of the best lenses for video: the standard lens.

For those concerned about the best focal length for video, a 50mm lens will provide you with the depth you need while maintaining focus on what’s important.

Additionally, basic standard lenses are typically a lot cheaper than say a telephoto lens, which means standard lenses area great choice for shooting video when you’re on a budget.

I really respect Samantha Ebreo’s videography YouTube because she essentially shows you her journey as a videographer.

In the video above, she explains why 50mm lenses are the best lenses for video and she also explains how to use them effectively.

Portrait

portrait

Nikon’s AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G serves as the picture perfect portrait lens. It’s also a great video lens...

Portrait lenses usually have a focal length somewhere between 70mm and 135mm, they should be able to perform in low-light circumstances, and they should have a shallow depth of field (after all, you should be the focus as a content creator).

These features make these lenses a top choice for getting moody, creative video sequences in low light and in which the subject is nicely separated from the background.

One of my favorite portrait lenses for content creators is Canon’s 85mm 1.4L, which is featured above and is also sold on Samy's Camera.

Of course, this lens is not for a content creator that is just starting out because of its nearly $1.5K price tag, but the video test above still gives you a pretty good idea of what an 85mm can do.

Learn More:

You Need High-Quality Lighting, Too

Just like with still photography, you need to invest in a good light for video production.

But you don't want to lug around something big, heavy, and bulky, nor do you want to spend a ton of money, either.

That's where the Litra Torch LitraPro comes in...

I reviewed this awesome little light a while back, and as you can read here, I was totally impressed with it at the time. I'm still totally impressed!

Despite being just 2.75 x 2 x 1.2 inches in size and weighing a scant 6 ounces, this light puts out 1200 lumens of light.

All that clean, beautiful light is thanks to 60 LEDs that Litra has crammed into this thing...

This light is also adjustable from 3000-6000K, so you can fine-tune the color temperature to meet your specific needs.

This bi-color light provides you with clean, crisp, flicker-free light and is waterproof, too. If you have any video shoots to do this winter, this light will go with you and give you durable performance each and every time!

We Recommend

Canon Color Science - Does It Live Up?

Written by PT Editor on 18 December 2019.

Canon Color Science Does It Live Up

^{Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash}

Color science is all the rage these days!

And any discussion on the topic eventually touches upon Canon’s color science.

Why do Canon colors look so pleasing? What makes Canon’s color science stand out? Do Canon sensors trade-off accuracy for prettiness? Do Canon colors live up to their reputation?

But before we decode all that, you need to know the basics of color science. So, let’s dive right in.

What Is Color Science?

The video above by Crimson Engine clarifies why the term “color science” is NOT exactly what it sounds like. It is not the science of color or the science of how our eyes interpret different wavelengths of light as different colors.

canon color science 1

^{photo by hh5800 via iStock}

Color science is how a particular manufacturer’s camera sensor processes the raw color data to make the colors look unique. In other words, as the video above says, color science is an internal LUT, or Look Up Table built into the camera.

That brings us to the next question.

How Does Color Science Work?

The above video by Gerald Undone explains what camera companies do to make their colors look unique.

It often comes down to the filters they place on the camera’s image sensor.

A camera will typically have a color filter array (CFA) or a mosaic of tiny Red, Green and Blue filters placed over its image sensor. This helps capture color information.

The most common type of CFAs is the Bayer filter mosaic, which contains 50% green, 25% red and 25% blue filters.

424px Bayer filter and subpixels of sensor CCD.svg

^{By Romkur via Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0}

Since human eyes are more sensitive to Green, especially in daylight conditions, the Bayer filter mosaic uses two Green filters for every Red or Blue filter.

But not all color filters are created equal.

And that gives the manufacturers some control over how they want a particular color to look like.

For instance, they can manipulate the color filters to make the red look a little more orange or the blue a little more cyan.

Learn More:

Top 3 Canon RF Lenses You Want

What Makes Canon’s Color Science Stand Out

canon color profiles 1

^{photo by Igor Alecsander via iStock}

As discussed above, color filters placed on the camera sensor often do not reproduce 100% accurate colors. Some camera brands deliberately choose to use a slightly inaccurate color filter in order to create colors that look more pleasing to the eyes.

Canon does the same! The Canon EOS R camera, for instance, is known for producing rich skin tones in portrait photography. The camera does this by shifting the reds and yellows closer to orange, which helps even out any harsh features of the skin, hides any blemishes in the skin and makes the skin tones look more consistent.

canon color profiles 2

^{photo by RelaxFoto.de via iStock}

Canon cameras also shift the blue a little bit toward cyan. So, if you shoot the blue sky with EOS R during the daytime, the sky doesn’t look 100% blue but it still looks very attractive and unique.

I have also been incredibly impressed with the EOS R’s color science for video. In fact, I’ve found that the colors it produces right out of the camera often don’t need any color grading! This saves me a ton of time in post-processing and allows me to attend to other tasks.

Of course, this is just one of the EOS R’s many excellent features. You can get more details on my thoughts on this awesome camera in this post.

Anyway, I digress...

This blog post by EOSHD does a good job of explaining how Canon color scientists draw on their years of experience in the photography industry to put a unique, artistic spin to the Canon colors, rather than simply relying on their technical knowledge.

Editor's Tip: Ready to jump ship to Canon to take advantage of their superior color science? Visit Samy's to peruse their extensive collection of popular Canon cameras, including crop sensor and full frame DSLRs and Canon's growing line of full frame mirrorless cameras.

Accuracy vs. Prettiness

canon eos r color profile

^{Photo by Denise Jans on Unsplash}

Most camera brands deliberately alter the colors coming off the camera sensor. And there’s a reason why they do so.

When it comes to colors, accuracy often does not equal prettiness. Brands like Sony and Red, for instance, are known for producing the most accurate colors but most people find those colors less attractive.

Brands like Canon, on the other hand, focus more on producing attractive colors and less on accuracy.

One great thing about Canon is that it gives you a few different picture profile options. As for Canon EOS R color profiles, you have the options of Faithful, Portrait and Neutral, among others.

Most photographers would choose the Neutral picture profile, when they need more flexibility but still don’t want to spend a lot of time and effort in post.

The Faithful profile is perfect when you are looking to capture more accurate colors without having to do extensive grading in post.

You can also switch to Canon Log (Log 1) in the Canon EOS R camera when you have more time to spend in post but want to capture a dynamic range.

Learn More:

Making the Move to Canon Mirrorless

We Recommend

Canon EOS R: The Sleeping Giant

Written by PT Editor on 20 November 2019.

^{Photo by krblokhin via iStock}

I've been a Nikon shooter for the longest time. Only recently have I branched out to other brands.

I've had several Sony camera over the years - the a6400 among them.

I also have a Panasonic GH5.

But the newest camera in my collection is the Canon EOS R. And so far, and as I explain in the video above, it has certainly impressed!

In fact, I think this camera is a bit of a sleeping giant. It's a bit unassuming, but it's packed with excellent features.

Let's dive into this camera so I can detail some of my favorite features.

Update: I have a new video on the EOS R that dives into a dozen things you should know about it. Check out the video above!

The Canon EOS R Specs Aren't Too Shabby

First things first, let's review the essential specs of this camera:

30.4-megapixel full frame sensor
DIGIC 8 image processor
Phase-difference detection autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
5,655 autofocus points with 100-percent vertical coverage and 88-percent horizontal coverage
-6 to +18 EV Range
+/-3 stops of exposure compensation in 1/3 and 1/2-stop increments
Shutter speeds from 30 seconds to 1/8000 seconds
.5-inch OLED color electronic viewfinder with 3.69 million dots and 100-percent coverage
4K and full HD video shooting

Now, people poo-pooed the megapixel count on this camera when it came out, but honestly, 30.4 megapixels is plenty for what most of us need to do.

As a Nikon shooter, I was skeptical of Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, but I have to say that it has performed very well for me. It's hard to go wrong with 5,655 autofocus points anyway!

Aside from the obvious, there are some "hidden" features that I really appreciate about this camera.

One such feature is the fact that this thing records in true 24p. Most cameras record at 23.98p.

Will anyone be able to tell the difference between the two? No...

However, it's impressive that Canon thought to include this detail when that's something usually reserved for high-end cinema cameras.

Something else I appreciate about the EOS R is that is has focus peaking, which works by recognizing the edges of contrast in the shot. Those edges are then highlighted by the camera so you can more easily distinguish what's in focus and what isn't.

Though focus peaking has been around for a long time, it's a new thing for Canon's non-cinema cameras.

Granted, focus peaking doesn't work in all situations, but it's still a great feature to have that you might not see on initial spec sheets of the EOS R.

These are just two features that this camera has that make it a sleeping giant in my mind!

Get more details about the autofocus system of the EOS R in the video above by CanonUSA.

Canon EOS R Build & Handling

Coming from a Nikon perspective, I was concerned that the layout of the buttons and dials on the EOS R would bother me, but I've found it to be a great camera to learn to use.

It handles well, has a nice grip, and the buttons and dials are laid out in a manner that's extremely intuitive.

I know some folks aren't too keen on the menu system of this camera, but I don't have a problem with it at all.

The touchscreen LCD is fully articulating, which is a very nice touch for tackling photos at odd angles and for recording video.

The OLED viewfinder shows a nice attention to detail - it's bright, contrasty, and offers 100 percent coverage.

Honestly, the design of this camera reminds me a lot of a slimmed-down version of the 5D Mark IV, and that's a good thing!

Canon EOS R Video Capabilities

The video capabilities of this camera have given a lot of people heartburn...

Though 4K video at 30fps is available, it's at a massive 1.8x crop. That's not appealing to a lot of videographers. For me, though, it hasn't been that big of a deal.

There's full HD recording, too, in either cropped or uncropped versions at up to 60fps.

Whether you're shooting in HD or 4K, there is no in-body stabilization. There are several EOS R lenses with stabilization, however.

All that said, this isn't a video-first camera, but it isn't exactly a lump of coal, either!

It offers C-Log and internal capture of 4:2:0 8-bit. It'll even do 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI out.

Besides, this camera is beautifully small and lightweight, so if it's run-and-gun video you're after, it will do the job just fine.

Check out other thoughts about the EOS R in the video above by Caleb Wojcik.

Canon EOS R: Final Thoughts

Like I said earlier, this is my first foray into the world of Canon, and I have been impressed. Above is just a few things I really appreciate about the camera, and as you can see, the positives have thus far outweighed the negatives.

Is this the perfect camera? No. But what camera is?

What the EOS R is, though, is a peek into Canon's future. They have obviously thought a lot about what they want the EOS R line to become, and this camera is a huge first step in creating a set of mirrorless cameras that truly have incredible potential.

This won't be my last discussion of the EOS R, so be sure to stay tuned for more details as I continue to test and play with this awesome little camera!

If you're already convinced that this is the camera for you, head to Samy's and score one for $500 off (at the time of writing). That puts it at just $1,800, and that's a steal for this camera!

We Recommend

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM Hands-On Review

Written by PT Editor on 22 November 2019.

^{Photo by welcomia via iStock}

One of the reasons I waited for over a year to get a Canon EOS R is because there weren’t many lens options to start with, let alone professional-grade lenses.

But that’s changed…

The Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is some big, bad glass that absolutely knocks it out of the park.

Yeah, it’s expensive, but that shouldn’t be a shock given that it’s a L-series lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture.

So, how does this incredible lens work with the EOS R? Let’s find out!

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L Specs

canon rf 15 35 price

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of this hands-on review, let’s take a sec to review the essential specifications of this lens:

Full frame RF mount
15-35mm effective focal Length
Hybrid image stabilization with 5 stops
Maximum magnification factor of 0.22x
Minimum focusing distance of 0.28m
Weather sealed
Electronic manual focus override
82mm filter size
4.99 inches in length

So, this lens is stuffed with all kinds of goodies, which is why it’s such a hefty lens at nearly five inches long with a weight of 1.86 pounds.

That’s a big lens for any camera, let alone a small mirrorless body like the EOS R.

However, if you ask me, the size and weight are worth it to have features like 5-stop image stabilization and full weather sealing.

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L Build Quality & Handling

canon rf 15 35mm specs

Even though this lens is a beast, it handles extremely well.

The f/2.8 aperture is overkill for most of what I do, but it's nice to have that option if I get a wild hair and want to take some portraits.

The motor in this thing - a Nano USM - is hugely powerful, which is a good thing because it needs to move around the enormous glass elements inside the lens.

It does this beautifully, too - and nearly silently as well, which is a bonus for shooting video.

canon 15 35mm build

When you pick up this lens, it is unmistakably a Canon L-series. It feels weighty and robust, and though I haven't had a chance to use it in poor weather, I'm willing to bet that the weather sealing works like a charm!

Of course, as an L-series lens, the optics are outstanding, providing clear, sharp, beautiful results.

This lens has a customizable control ring that can be used for just about any functionality you need - aperture, ISO, white balance, and so forth.

There isn't a focus distance scale on the lens, but one is displayed in the viewfinder and on the rear LCD when shooting in live view in manual focus mode.

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L Image Quality

The reason I picked up this lens is because as a landscape photographer, the focal range is perfect.

I can go ultra-wide at 15mm and capture tons of detail or narrow the field of view and capture simpler compositions that draw attention to a specific landscape feature.

Of course, this focal range is great for many other pursuits, too, like travel photography, event photography, and even wedding photography when a wide-angle lens is needed for small venue spaces.

I've got a review of this lens upcoming, but in the meantime, see what Matti Haapoja thinks of it in the video above.

canon rf 15 35mm

In terms of image quality, this lens definitely delivers.

There's excellent sharpness from edge to edge throughout the focal range, though the edges aren't as sharp as the center, as you'd expect.

Distortion is actually minimal even at 15mm. In fact, it's hard to detect any distortion at all, which is quite the feat. This is all done optically, too - there's no digital shenanigans going on to correct distortion.

The five-stop image stabilization is great, though you can't really rely on it to actually provide that much leeway.

Nevertheless, I was able to handhold the camera at exposures of up to one second and still get beautifully sharp results.

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L Price

canon rf 15 35mm performance

At the time of this writing, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L is $2,300.00, so it's not a cheap lens by any means.

At this price point, I don't see many shooters other than professionals picking one of these lenses up.

However, if you're an enthusiast shooter and you have the money, this is a great lens to have in your bag.

The fact that there is so little distortion, good sharpness, and a large f/2.8 aperture, along with L-series optics, impeccable build quality, and image stabilization make this a must-have for pro EOS R shooters.

Yes, it's a big lens and sharpness diminishes at the edges, but Canon really knocked it out of the park with this lens, if you ask me.

As Canon expands the EOS R lineup and higher-resolution cameras become available, I think this lens will prove to be even more valuable - the EOS R with its low-pass filter and 30.3-megapixel sensor just can't reap all the benefits that I think this lens can offer. We'll have to wait and see what the next EOS R cameras and this lens can do!

We Recommend

Critical Tips to Sell Stock Photography Online in 2022

Written by PT Editor on 28 December 2021.

Critical Tips to Sell Stock Photography Online in 2022

^{photo byMotortion via iStock}

If your plan is to start to sell stock photography online in 2022 or if you want to increase how much you can sell your stock photography online, you’re joining a huge number of photographers.

But being successful in the stock photography business takes a lot of hard work and know-how. In this guide, learn a few tips to sell stock photography online in 2022.

Sell Stock Photography Online - How to Start

sell stock photography online

^{photo byKhosrork via iStock}

How to sell stock photography online and the best stock photography sites to sell on are just part of the puzzle for this lucrative, but crowded, field of photography revenue.

In order to have success and actually sell stock photography online, two things need to be done first as photographers. One: realize that is not a guaranteed way to make rapid income. Two: also realize that you won’t make any money at all from this field if you don’t try to sell stock photography online.

We’ve all heard the stories about that one image from a photographer that has generated millions of dollars or Euros for them, but the truth is that those experiences are not all that common. Yes, it’s a great goal to try for, but the long haul, steady approach is actually more successful for most photographers.

So, now that our expectations are grounded in reality, let’s look at a few factors involved in how to sell stock photography online.

Cull Your Images to Sell Stock Photography Online

Tips to Sell Stock Photography Online in 2022

^{photo bymetamorworks via iStock}

Another somewhat common misconception for those starting to sell your photography online is that you should flood agencies with your images. While you do have a better chance to sell your stock photography online the more images you have online, submitting substandard images just to have a large number will not work.

A big reason why that won’t work is that agencies have standards and expectations for the images they host. These requirements are always clearly posted on the company’s websites or sign-up forms, so be sure to pay attention to them.

Here’s a good reason why, if you’re just starting out to sell your stock photography online and you do submit a ton of image files that don’t meet their requirements, some agencies will put you in a waiting period before you can submit more images.

You really don’t want to be in “timeout” so a good practice is to take a hard and critical look at your images with the thought of what THEY are looking for and not how proud we may be of the image.

Learn More:

Scan Your Chromes

sell stock photography

^{photo bynicolas_ via iStock}

Sounds like something from the original Battlestar Galactica, doesn’t it? If you remember that TV show, then you probably also started out in photography shooting film. That means you likely have scores, if not hundreds of film-based slides and negatives of your work from that time period.

If you were serious about photography then, many of those images are probably very good and you should look at them, too. A lightbox for slide sorting comes in handy for this task, though you may need to get one if you haven’t looked at your slides (chromes) in a while.

Kaiser Slimlite Plano

If you’re planning on digitizing your old chromes or negatives yourself to sell stock photography online, a higher quality light source would be preferred, such as the Kaiser Slimlite Plano (shown above) would be a better choice. Other options are your scanner or all-in-one printer, provided it saves in high enough resolution, or sending off your physical film to a service provider.

Remember, you’re looking at these older images to sell stock photography online, so all of those same requirements apply to these, too.

Shoot Series to Sell Stock Photography Online

how to sell stock photography

^{photo bySoumen Hazra via iStock}

The reasoning behind this tip to sell stock photography online is to provide options for prospective buyers.

Negative space is a huge factor for some users of stock photography, since they will be using these images in an article or in some sort of ad. The negative space allows them to place copy (the words) in the image area or to use a cropped version of the image they purchased for wrapping around words.

The way we maximize our opportunities to sell stock photography online is to shoot a series of the same image with the area of negative space and the amount of negative space varied. A series of images can be uploaded on most stock photography sites.

Other ideas for a series could be a person with varied facial expressions or in numerous outfits. Action images also lend themselves well to the idea of making a series of images.

Sharp Focus - Accurate Exposure

sell your stock photography

^{photo byXebeche via iStock}

In order to sell stock photography online, the images should be accurately exposed and in sharp focus. Unless there is some specification you’re targeting.

Many searchers for buying stock photography are intending to use the images to illustrate articles, instructions, or advertising, so the images they choose will often be complementary to what they’re trying to say.

What this means for us trying to sell stock photography online is that we’re not really looking at supplying fine art or an esoteric image, but rather something that tells or supports a story or idea.

This actually takes getting used to for many photographers since we often attempt to craft an image with the idea of selling on its merits as a pretty picture. This doesn’t mean we scrimp on quality, though. Accurate focus and exposure are key elements to be able to sell stock photography online.

Many photographers find themselves upgrading from entry-level to prosumer cameras due to some of the added features of many of these cameras and the extra ruggedness of build that is desirable to the extra use of professional imaging.

Upgrading is fairly simple and is very cost-effective when you consider the extra capabilities and heavier-duty construction can let you provide many high-quality images to sell stock photography online.

Nikon D7500

I’ll just list two examples I found online at Samy’s Camera. If you got serious about your photography with an entry-level Nikon DSLR such as the D3500, an easy and reasonably priced upgrade can be found in the Nikon D7500 APS-C format camera.

Canon EOS R with 24 105mm lens

Or, you may decide that wanting to sell stock photography online and other money-making ventures would be better served by stepping up into Full Frame format, such as the mirrorless Canon EOS R with 24-105mm lens.

You don’t have to upgrade, these are just some extra ideas. You can sell stock photography online with any high-quality modern digital cameras. Remember, entry-level cameras and lenses are not at all inferior in image quality, they may simply lack a certain advanced feature or the extra ruggedness of prosumer cameras.

Stay Up On Trends

best stock photography sites to sell

^{photo byqunamax via iStock}

In order to be on top of the game to sell stock photography online, you will need to make an effort to stay on top of any emerging trends in the stock business. Fads can be safely ignored, if you get to cash in on one, that’s good. It’s the long-term trends that we need to figure out.

The stock agencies are actually very helpful in this regard. On many sites, there is a page that has image requests for specific projects and other pages that detail what type of image is moving up in popularity and which ones are dropping.

Some agencies may have a way to inform you by means of a subscription for new trends or new image requests. For other agencies, you’ll want to check them often to browse those features.

Use these critical tips to help you sell stock photography online, either as a newcomer to the field, or as an established pro seeking to increase your revenue.

Learn More:

We Recommend

Food Photography Lighting Tips

Written by PT Editor on 20 December 2021.

Food Photography Lighting Tips

Food photography lighting setups are similar to other photographic lighting configurations such as small product photography, tabletop photography, and still life photography.

In fact, whatever you end up getting for creative food photography lighting will probably become the backbone of your photography lighting gear for many types of photography, including some portrait photography.

Professional food photography lighting gear should meet these criteria:

High-quality
Portable
Versatile
Durable

In addition to the gear itself, you’ll want to become familiar with several small product and food photography lighting techniques such as:

Soft light
Hard light
Broad lighting
Short lighting
Backlighting
Background control

Food Photography Lighting Gear

food photography lighting

Let’s find some high-quality, versatile, durable, and professional food portable lighting gear first. You’ve already got your camera and lens choices, so now we’ll cover everything else.

A good tripod and some light stands are first up. For the tripod, you’ll want something that is sturdy enough to stay steady for long exposure techniques and also to not be too prone to getting knocked over as we work in what are often tight quarters.

Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 3W

Manfrotto makes excellent tripods such as the Manfrotto MT055XPRO3-3W which has heavy-duty, quick-adjust legs and comes with a secure three-way head that includes a quick-release system.

Two special features that make this a fine tripod for creative food photography are the center column can be used horizontally (90 degrees) for flat lay imaging and the Easy Link connector for adding a portable light.

Savage 9ft Drop Stand

Savage 9ft Drop Stand extends up to 9 feet and is the quickest light stand to set up, move, or collapse, making it perfect for food photography lighting. Add a boom for extending a small LED light or a softbox for overhead shots.

P300c Softbox

A light box for food photography can provide soft light as part of a multi-light configuration or as a single light. Aperture Nova P300c LED light panel provides a soft, color-correct light that can be further modified by adding the P300c Softbox attachment.

This is a continuous LED light that has infinite power adjustment, color temperature control from 2000 to 10,000K, and a CRI rating of 95 for high-quality, completely variable lighting.

Phottix Nuada R3 II Twin Kit

For a battery-powered LED light kit, check out the Phottix Nuada R3 II Twin Kit complete with two lights, two light stands, a carrying bag, and remote control. This kit is also very affordable making it doubly attractive for food photography lighting. Optional power from Sony camcorder batteries adds to the portability and versatility.

Godox LEDP 260C

For lighting up the food photography background, a lightweight, battery-powered LED light such as the Godox LEDP-260C will come in handy. You could also use it for adding fill light or a backlight to show steam effects.

Best Ever Backdrops

As a durable, water-resistant, portable, and photo-realistic food photography backdrop, the Skyler Burt Collection of backdrops such as the Vesper or Black Feather food photography backdrops can be mixed and matched from Best Ever Backdrops.

Best Ever Backdrops 2

Best Ever Backdrops makes a huge variety of amazing-looking food photography backdrops and props for use in your food photography lighting setup for capturing the best views of the items you’re imaging. Not only are their backdrops and props beautiful, they are also some of the most practical and durable backgrounds available for food photography or small product photography.

Learn More:

Food Photography Lighting Techniques

creative food photography

With our gear choices made, let’s think about some of the food photography lighting techniques we can use for capturing awesome images.

In order to clearly show all aspects of a dish such as for a recipe, soft lighting, such as from a softbox or two, is often desired. But using harder light in food photography lighting is also a good option, especially if we’re wanting to add some drama or interest to the items being photographed.

A tried and true method to get soft lighting without lots of detail obscuring shadows and contrast is to use two similar lights in a softbox or with umbrellas, and place them at a 45-degree angle above and to the side of the subject, one light on either side of the subject.

We can add a light to the backdrop for a little added separation or simply let the light fall off without a physical backdrop being used. This method of food photography lighting also works well for overhead shots such as a flat lay.

Hard Light Adds Drama

professional food photography

The fun comes when we step outside of the typical shadow-free food photography lighting technique described above. Just as with portrait and architectural photography, controlling shadow, highlights, and contrast with harder or point light sources adds interest, drama, and perhaps even some emotion.

The concepts are almost identical to the portrait lighting techniques we’ve described in detail in a series of several articles here on Photography Talk (check the Learn More links below for tutorials). Broad lighting and short lighting will likely be the harder light methods we use most often for changing up our food photography lighting.

As a basic reminder, broad lighting describes when our camera position is on the side which has the most light falling on it while short lighting has the camera position on the opposite side. Both techniques add contrast to a scene by controlling shadow and highlight.

A special technique can be used to show the steam rising up from off of a hot dish or cup, two methods actually. One technique uses backlighting to shine on the rising vapor so that it shows up. The exposure is hardly affected, just a controlled light from behind the steam.

Another way to show that steam vapor involves using a food photography backdrop in a dark shade and shining light from the front onto the steam. Adjusting the exposure so that the light hitting the vapor is captured against the dark, unlit background will show off the rising steam quite well.

There is a lot more to cover concerning food photography lighting and use of backdrops that we will continue to discuss, so be sure to come back to our discussion on food photography.

Learn More:

We Recommend

Food Photography Tips for Beginners

Written by PT Editor on 07 January 2022.

Food Photography Tips for Beginners

^{photo byLilechka75 via iStock}

Let’s discuss some food photography tips for beginners! Pictures of food are all over my social media and your friends probably add to the ever increasing volume of food pictures many of us see on a daily basis.

I’m all for that, because it shows that food images are in demand, that many people are interested in them. So, that means that exceedingly well done pictures of food should also be in demand, a market for us to tap.

The concern for photographers wishing to make some profit from their work isn’t about if people are interested in food images, but rather how do we make our images stand out so others can see the many advantages of hiring a pro for these pictures?

We have covered some basic food photography tips for beginners, including equipment choices, so now let’s go a little deeper into some of those basics.

Where to Find Clients for Food Photography

food photography tips for beginners 2

^{photo byClarkandCompany via iStock}

You’ve been practicing the basic food photography tips for beginners for a while and you’re getting pretty good at creating great images. What you want to know now is. “How do I get paid for this?”

What is needed is a client. Large chains aren’t the market for most of us. Those restaurants, stores, or wholesalers are likely to have in-house photography departments so they can carefully control every aspect of what they present to their desired audience.

The clientele for many of us, definitely if we’re looking at food photography tips for beginners, are going to be local interests or smaller businesses online. Many of these types of clients will be both in person and online.

portfolio

A portfolio, either physical prints or online, is an essential tool for showcasing our talent and our style of work to potential new customers. An in person visit may be in order, though phone, e-mail, and social media may be the initial method of contact.

Signing up for a service that matches artists with end users is another option that works for some. These sites and services charge for use, usually as a percentage of the amount paid, but it does open up a wider audience than we might be able to find for ourselves initially.

For those types of sites, pay close attention to their specific rules. Also, be aware that the fees paid to photographers by a service are often much lower than what you could probably negotiate for yourself.

Food Photography Tips for Beginners: Control the Mood

food photography tips for beginners 3

As food photography tips for beginners, we’ve already gone over some of the basics as previous articles in this series. Such as how to adjust the exposure, lighting, composition, and focus variables to create a high quality food photography image.

What I want to key in on now is the mood of our imagery. Exposure, lighting, focus, and composition are the tools available for us to create, alter, or enhance the mood or feel of the food images.

As I see it, there are three general moods we can attempt with our food photography tips for beginners. Realistic, hi-key, and low-key. We aren’t required to use only these three, and we can also adjust how much of any affectation we’re attempting.

food photography

A realistic mood or setting is one where the pictures of food appear in pretty much the way they would be seen by a person enjoying the food. Umbrella or softbox LED lighting is a good choice that also works as general product photography tips in addition to food photography tips for beginners.

LED continuous lighting is the type of lighting I usually recommend when discussing product or food photography tips for beginners because of how versatile a setup like this is. LED lights can be used for still images and video, are adjustable for power levels and color temperature, and are incredibly simple to set up and use.

Low key lighting can make a setting seem more serious while high key often feels more airy or spontaneous. The LED lighting can be adjusted and fine tuned to create whatever level of mood we’re attempting.

High key and low key aren’t always referring to how light or dark an image is. An important point for food photography tips for beginners is that high key is lower contrast and low key is higher contrast.

food pictures

The backdrop we use can also affect the mood of our food photography setting. Some backdrops lend themselves to a high key image and some others fit seamlessly into a low key lighting configuration. A simple, light color can be seen as airy or informal, dark patterns might lend themselves to low key images.

food images

A backdrop such as what can be found from Best Ever Backdrops is an excellent option and is part of my food photography tips for beginners because of how versatile and usable they are for all sorts of small product and food photography.

Their Mix and Match collections let you choose both options in one water resistant, semi rigid, 24X36 inch backdrop, one color or pattern on each side. For instance, the light color Skyler Burt Vesper on one side and the Skyler Burt Sidecar as a dark backdrop on the other side.

A good backdrop is a worthwhile investment and is something I consider as one of the more important initial food photography tips for beginners. Besides, you will find many uses for these high quality backdrops in your other small product photography endeavors, too.

Learn More:

Focus on the Food or the Setting?

pictures of food

^{photo bymonkeybusinessimages via iStock}

So, with these food photography tips for beginners discussing moods, lighting, and backdrops, the question comes up of whether to focus on the setting or the food itself. The answer depends on what the purpose is for the food pictures in the first place.

For creating pictures of food that are meant to clearly show what the food, drink, or specialty are will be focused on the food itself. A realistic lighting approach and shadowless lighting such as from a ring light will be beneficial for this concept.

food photography tips

Depending on the intent of the images, your client may be better served by images emphasizing the setting instead of specific food or drink items. A good approach and another of the essential food photography tips for beginners is to offer our clients various types of images, realistic or moody, focused on the food items or the settings so they have options for their use.

Delivery Options for Food Photography

food photography tips 2

^{photo byTero Vesalainen via iStock}

The method of delivery will also need to be tailored to the needs of the clients. Many customers will actually prefer online digital delivery but providing options is another of the more relevant food photography tips for beginners.

Physical prints, especially giant enlargements or specialty prints such as metal prints and canvas wraps, look great on the walls in a cafe or a dining room.

Another option is to physically deliver digital images by means of a portable USB drive, also known as thumb drives and flash drives. If you think about it, you could use this style of delivery as a good way to advertise your brand, perhaps with a logo sticker on the flash drive.

Food Photography Tips for Beginners: Real or Fake?

Food Photography Tips for Beginners 4

^{photo byGangis_Khan via iStock}

In your search for usable food photography tips for beginners, you may have come across some stories about how non food things are used for creating food images, such as glue for icing or plastic lettuce or something else fantastic and intriguing.

For the most part, we don’t need to worry about those things. Just create great images of food by using good camera gear, high quality backdrops, and essential imaging skills.

If you find something that works for you, go for it, but as the last of the food photography tips for beginners in this article just concentrate on making high quality for clients so they’ll come back to us.

Learn More:

We Recommend

Foodie Background - How to Capture Food Surfaces that Create Dramatic Backdrops

Written by PT Editor on 17 January 2022.

How to Capture Food Surfaces that Create Dramatic Backdrops

^{photo byNataliia Mysak via iStock}

Food, recipe, or restaurant photography is a lot of fun to do and can be an easy source of additional income for you whether working as a full-time pro photographer or using photography part-time as an income supplement.

Having the right foodie background can make a huge difference in how your images turn out and well they move people to respond to the images. With that in mind, let’s examine some food photography backdrops to see how to choose and use a foodie background.

What is a Foodie Background?

Foodie Background

I’m describing a foodie background as a backdrop for food photography that adds to or focuses attention on the food items being imaged. So a foodie background would be more than a sheet of construction paper, plain cloth, or the rest of the restaurant behind our subject.

The right backdrop for food photography will be pleasant to look at but not compete too much for the viewer’s eye. It will complement the food subject and will look as though it naturally belongs in the image.

Features You Want in a Foodie Background

Best food background

For a foodie background to work the way we’re intending, there are some desirable features to consider. You want it to be high-quality. A poorly made backdrop can detract from the overall quality of the image, while a good foodie background will enhance the final image.

Some foodie backgrounds may be a solid color or one with a texture but mostly one color family with some variations. Other options include a photo-realistic image such as wood grain, tile, bricks, or something natural.

I like semi-rigid food photography backdrops more than a soft cloth or paper background. Water-resistant for easy clean-up is a huge plus. I also prefer a size that’s easily transportable.

Which is why I’m enjoying testing and using for myself the foodie backgrounds from Best Ever Backdrops. Many of the images in our series on food photography and other small product photography are made using these excellent backdrops.

Learn More:

Exposure and Lighting Options for Foodie Backgrounds

Backdrop for food photography

Proper lighting is essential for creating good images of food or other small products. There are several options for lighting configurations or techniques to use. In addition to the lighting setup, exposure techniques can also add to the interest level of the food images.

A foodie background can be lit by a separate light for emphasizing it or you can arrange the lights to de-emphasize the backdrop by allowing it to fall into shadow. High key images can be made with a clearly lit background while a low image will probably benefit by letting the background be out of the path of any direct light.

There are many choices for the types of lights to use, but I’m a fan of continuous LED lighting and softbox or umbrella modifiers. LED lights for photography are continuous lighting with a very good color quality, cool running, and some of them are battery-powered for portability.

A low cost alternative with stands and umbrellas is the Savage 500W LED Studio Light Kit, while spending a little more can find you using a softbox light kit with a lot of versatility such as the Smith Victor Octabella 1500W 3 Light Kit is super versatile with a boom arm that can be used for lighting overhead shots.

A high-quality foodie background cab used for those overshots, becoming both the background and the surface for a flat lay style of food image.

Best Food Backgrounds for Different Foods

Food photography backdrops

The best foodie backgrounds for many of us can be found at Best Ever Backdrops. They make excellent backdrops in a wide variety of colors and styles, including photo realistic, that can be used for different types of foods.

As an example, a light color such as the Skyler Burt Blue Curacao, would make a great backing backdrop, while the darker-toned Skyler Burt Dark Stormy backdrop may work well for low-key images for a moody effect.

Since you can Mix and Match by adding two different foodie backgrounds to one 2 by 3 foot backdrop, you can save money and have a versatile setup for food photography.

Other Uses for Foodie Backgrounds

Food photography background

Other uses for these foodie backgrounds include small product photography, still-life photography, and headshot portrait photography. Since much of what’s done in food photography is actually a form of small product photography, that is an easy transition. Creative still-life images also benefit from the foodie backgrounds.

The smaller size of 24 x 36 inches can be used for head and shoulder poses or simple headshot portraits. The Oversize Collection has multiple styles available in a 36 x 46-inch size (3 x 4 feet) which could be used for more poses and styles of portrait or product photography.

Where to FInd a Food Photography Background

Best food backgrounds

As you can probably tell, I’m enjoying these foodie backgrounds from Best Ever Backdrops. They are high-quality, versatile, durable, water-resistant, lightweight, and reasonably priced. Use them as a background or as a surface for flat lay photography. Plus, you can use these foodie backgrounds for all sorts of other photography, so have fun with them!

Learn More:

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Centennial Tripod

We Recommend

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000 - 2021 Edition

Written by PT Editor on 24 November 2021.

gifts for photographers under 1000

^{Photo by Eugene_EM via iStock}

The holiday shopping season is in full swing, and you know what that means...

It's time to discuss more great gifts for photographers, this time with a budget of $1,000.

While a lot of photography gear is expensive, there are all kinds of gear options for photographers with a price tag under $1,000.

From tripods to cameras, photography lighting to gimbals, the following list has it all!

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Colorado Tripod Company Centennial Tripod

centennial 3

Every photographer needs a great tripod, and for that I recommend the Colorado Tripod Company Centennial Tripod.

One look at this thing and you know that it's been beautifully designed and built to last a lifetime.

The new 4-series version of this tripod extends to a height of 70 inches yet weighs just 4.9 lbs. and collapses down to 24 inches, making it a highly portable option for all kinds of photographers.

centennial 1

Part of what makes this tripod so lightweight is the Japanese carbon fiber legs that provide the ultimate in rigid support for your camera gear without adding unnecessary weight.

The legs are also waterproof, so if the person you're shopping for enjoys landscape photography that involves water, they can be confident in setting up this tripod at the beach or in a stream without worry of what the water will do to the tripod's legs.

centennial 2

This tripod is easy to set up, too...

The quarter-turn leg locks mean you can get the tripod in place and locked down in a flash, that way you don't miss any shots.

I like the fact that the Centennial Tripod comes in gunmetal or black finishes as well.

I've used various Colorado Tripod Company products over the years, and they have always impressed. This tripod is no different, and I'm sure the lucky photographer on your list would find it to be just as impressive!

Besides, at just $499, this tripod is way under budget!

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Rode Microphones RODECaster Pro Integrated Podcast Production Studio

rodecaster 1

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list has their sights set on expanding their creative footprint into podcasting, then the RODECaster Pro should be on your radar as a perfect gift idea.

This gadget is the first fully integrated podcast production studio and can be used for producing beginner to advanced podcasts.

There are four high-quality microphone channels that can power studio condenser microphones and traditional dynamic microphones as well.

Connecting the microphones is quick and easy, and you get automatic level setting, one-touch recording, and many other convenient features as well.

rodecaster 2

The RODECaster Pro also allows you to have remote guests call in for an interview. Just connect a smartphone to the unit via Bluetooth or a TRRS cable, and it will automatically provide "mix-minus" audio to prevent the caller hearing an echo.

Additionally, this unit provides preamps and outputs with Class A circuitry for top-of-the-line gain structure and ultra-low distortion, just like you find in broadcast consoles!

rodecaster 3

RODE loaded the RODECaster Pro up with eight programmable sound effects as well.

There's music, jingles, applause, and other sounds that help give your podcast a more professional sound.

In other words, this is the perfect setup for getting a podcast off the ground!

Learn more about the RODE Podcaster

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Atomos Ninja V With Accessory Kit

atomos 1

Another great gift for photographers that are expanding into audio and video production is the 5-inch Atomos Ninja V portable monitor/recorder.

This gadget works with both mirrorless and DSLR cameras and provides 4K 60p 10-bit recording with a 1000nit display.

Video recording is done directly from the camera's sensor via HDMI 2.0, so you can bypass the camera's internal compression and its record time limits as well.

The ProRes or DNxHR files are edit-ready and can be easily stored on an SSD drive.

In fact, a 1TB AtomX SSDmini drive gives you 2.5 hours of recording in 4K. This drive is just 3 inches long and 1/4 inches tall and is backward compatible with previous Atomos drives.

atomos 2

The monitor is a super-bright 5.2-inch 10-bit HDR screen with 1,000 nits of output. It's encased in a 1-inch aluminum body that's ultra durable while weighing just 11 ounces.

Additionally, the screen offers 10+ stops of dynamic range in real-time from various signals, including Log, PQ, and HLG.

The anti-reflection screen allows you to clearly see what's happening, even on the brightest of days.

With one-touch operation, recording couldn't be easier. You also get speedy playback, slow motion, and frame-by-frame analysis with AtomOS

Of course, that's just the start. This little guy offers much more in the way of utility for your favorite photographer!

Learn more about the Atomos Ninja V

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Zhiyun Weebill 2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

weebill 1

A handheld gimbal like the Zhiyun Weebill 2 is a must-have for photographers that also produce videos.

This is the upgraded version of the Weebill S, and boasts many features that enable the creation of beautifully smooth and steady video.

The Weebill 2 has a dynamic stabilization system at the chip and algorithm level that enables lightning-fast adjustments by the gimbal to ensure smooth video capture.

weebill 2

The gimbal has a 2.88-inch color touch display that offers real-time video monitoring and the ability to instantly adjust settings.

The user interface is easy to navigate and easy on the eyes as well - its operation is completely intuitive so videographers can focus on recording video, not on trying to figure out how to work the gimbal.

weebill 3

Another feature of this gimbal that's worth mentioning is that it has an underslung design. This allows you to get ultra-low-angle shots

Additionally, you can use it handheld, in portrait mode, and in storage mode, and there are multiple ways to grip or hold the gimbal to get the desired results.

Other features include SmartFollow, which supports target marking and gesture control, follow focus controls, aperture and ISO controls, and focus control wheel supports.

In other words, this gimbal is loaded up and ready to roll!

Learn more about the Zhiyun Weebill 2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 with 12-32mm Lens & 45-150mm Lens

samys under 1000 1

When you give a gift to someone for the holidays, you want it to be something that wows them, but that doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg either…

Well, Samy’s Camera has an incredible deal that ticks both of those boxes - the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 with not one, but TWO lenses bundled with it.

This kit is normally just under $1,000, but with a $400 instant rebate, you’ll pay $597.99. Not bad, right?!

The GX85 features a 16-megapixel micro four-thirds sensor, 4K video, and 5-axis in-body image stabilization that helps enable the capture of sharp photos and smooth video, even when shooting handheld.

samys under 1000 2

Because this camera lacks a low-pass filter, it generates images that have better image quality and sharpness. The photographer on your list will certainly appreciate that!

Other features of this camera include a 2764-dot electronic viewfinder, a 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, and an ISO range of 200-25600. Additionally, the GX85 has WiFi and continuous shooting of up to 40 fps. All of those features are wrapped inside a small, lightweight mirrorless camera body.

samys under 1000 3

Of course, we can’t forget that there are two lenses as part of this package: a 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 wide-angle zoom lens and a 45-150mm f/4-5.6 zoom that gives photographers the option of shooting throughout both standards and telephoto ranges.

That means that the special photographer that you’re shopping for will have a complete setup for tackling all kinds of photography and videography needs, from landscape and portrait photography to making dynamic videos in high-quality 4K resolution. If that isn’t an awesome gift idea, I don’t know what is!

Learn more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 with 12-32mm Lens & 45-150mm Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Onyx Digital Color LED 1 x 2 Soft Light

onyx 1

The Onyx Digital Color Light from Ikan is an RGBWA LED panel that offers five color modes for getting the lighting just right for photography or videography pursuits.

With separate controls for red, green, and blue, the photographer or videographer on your list can get the precise look they want for their creations. And, of course, with independent controls for each channel there are millions of color options!

Add in amber and white LEDs, and you have a light with more accurate color temperatures when recreating daylight or tungsten lighting.

onyx 2

This light also offers CCT mode, which gives you color temperature controls from 2800K up to 10000K.

There is a hue shift of magenta and green, too, so the user has better matching control when using this light in addition to other LED light fixtures.

The light offers CRI/TLCI of 95 as well, so you get beautiful quality lighting.

Throw in 33 different gels and 8 different special effects, and you have a recipe for an all-purpose light!

Learn more about the Onyx Digital Color LED 1 x 2 Soft Light from Ikan

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Really Right Stuff TFC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod

really right stuff

This carbon fiber tripod from Really Right Stuff has improved ergonomics that make the tripod easier to use than ever before.

In fact, this tripod is so easy to use that it will easily become a seamless part of your favorite photographer's workflow...

There are 1/4"-20 sockets on the outside of the tripod's apex that allows for adding accessories to expand the functionality of the photography or videography setups.

Furthermore, this tripod is ultra-fast to lock and unlock, that way the photographer on your list can deploy the tripod to get a shot and quickly unlock it, fold it up, and move on to the next shot without any fuss.

The twist locks on the legs have been redesigned to hold up better to contaminants like debris. This tripod also holds up better to the elements than previous versions, so you get the ultimate in reliability and functionality, too.

At just 4.3 pounds, this is a nice and compact tripod that can accommodate up to 50 pounds.

And you get the same attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship that you expect from Really Right Stuff.

As I mentioned earlier, every photographer needs a good tripod. This is a great option!

Learn more about the Really Right Stuff TFC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Godox AD600Pro Witstro All-In-One Outdoor Flash

godox 1

This Godox all-in-one flash is the perfect gift idea for photographers that do a lot of outdoor portraiture, event photography, and the like.

It has a 2.4GHz wireless X system that offers a range of up to 328 feet.

And since it's compatible with various TTL systems like Nikon, Sony, Canon, Olympus, Fujifilm, and Panasonic, the chances are good that the photographer on your holiday shopping list has a compatible camera.

godox 2

The light offers up to 600Ws with nine steps of power output that range from 1/1 to 1/256.

In addition to plenty of light output, you also get incredible battery life with a 28.8V/2600mAh lithium-ion battery pack that provides up to 360 full-power flashes.

There's an optional AC adapter for this light as well, which gives photographers the ability to run the flash off of AC power for long-lasting performance.

Learn more about the Godox AD600Pro Witstro All-in-One Outdoor Flash

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Sony Alpha a6300

sony a6300

A great holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list is a Sony camera.

By opting for a pre-owned camera, you can save a ton of money while still giving an awesome gift this holiday season.

The Sony a6300 offers lots of features, including a 24.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, 4K video at 30p, HD video at 1080p/120, and continuous shooting at 11fps.

sony a6300 2

Add to that a spectacular 425-point autofocus system with tracking AF, excellent image quality, and a small, lightweight body, and the a6300 is a perfect gift for a photographer that needs a capable yet highly portable camera.

Plus, with the a6300, you give the gift of a small, yet mighty camera with superb photographic and video capabilities, but that can easily slide into a camera bag with loads of room to spare.

There are also many different lenses that work with this camera, so if you wanted to expand the gift-giving, you could potentially find a nice pre-owned E-mount lens to add to the mix.

Whether the photographer on your list photographs people, buildings, landscapes, wildlife, or something in between, this camera will be a welcome addition to their camera bag!

Learn more about the Sony a6300

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Phottix Indra500 TTL GameChanger 2-Light Kit for Canon

phottix

Yet another lighting option you might consider as a great gift idea for a photographer is this Phottix Indra500 TTL Gamechanger 2-light kit for Canon.

This is a perfect kit for photographers that don't have access to AC power while on location because it has Li-ion batteries and chargers.

The kit includes two Indra500 TTL 500 Ws monolights as well as an Odin II TTL trigger transmitter for canon cameras.

Additionally, you get a 32-inch Easy Up Octa Softbox with grid and a 24x35-inch Easy Up Softbox With Grid.

There are two nine-foot air-cushioned stands for supporting the light and softboxes as well.

With all the lighting elements that a photographer needs, this is a perfect holiday gift idea!

Learn more about the Phottix Indra500 TTL Gamechanger 2-Light Kit for Canon

Learn more about the iMovR Lander Standing Desk

We Recommend

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500 - 2021 Edition

Written by PT Editor on 07 December 2021.

Gifts for Photographers Under 2500 2021 Edition

^{photo byPekic via iStock}

We're getting down to the wire with the holiday shopping season...

If you're in a rush to find the perfect gift for the photographer on your list, don't fret - we've got some great ideas!

With a budget of $2,500, you can find all sorts of epic gifts for photographers including cameras, lighting, office equipment, and much more.

Let's get to the list!

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: iMovR Lander Standing Desk

IMOVR LANDER STANDING DESK

One of the great things about the holiday season is that you have an opportunity to really change a loved one’s life for the better.

And this isn’t hyperbole - with a gift like the iMovR Lander Standing Desk, you can help your favorite photographer be more comfortable, healthier, and more productive.

Think about it…

Sitting at a desk editing photos all day isn’t good for your neck, shoulders, or back. You need to move your positioning as you work, varying from sitting to standing, to ward off the negative effects of sitting for hours and hours on end. The iMovR Lander desk lets you do that with ease. So, how is this accomplished?

IMOVR LANDER STANDING DESK 2

The Lander desk has electric motors that can lift up to 365 pounds and do so with whisper-quiet operation. The motors are engaged in one of two ways: the height-control paddle on the underside of the desktop or the companion smartphone app. With a simple double-tap of the paddle or a tap of your finger on your smartphone screen, you can move the desk up and down as you please.

And unlike many desks, the iMovR Lander doesn’t require a ton of time or tools to assemble.

In fact, this desk arrives 98-percent assembled, so you’re not only giving an incredible gift, but one that comes without a huge investment of time required to put it together. In about three minutes the legs can be attached to the desk (with no tools!) and the photographer on your list can go about setting up their workspace.

IMOVR LANDER STANDING DESK 3

iMovR gives you peace of mind with the desk, too. There’s a five-year warranty on the desktop and a 10-year warranty on the base components. On top of that, the desk is beautifully engineered and constructed, so you can give the gift of something that will be durable and functional for the long term.

The desktop is made of 3D laminate material that is highly durable. There are also hundreds of color and size combinations to choose from, so you can truly design the perfect desk for your loved one (or yourself!).

Best of all, this desk starts at just over $1,000, so with a $2,500 budget, you’ll have a lot of money left over. Perhaps you can buy two desks!

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Ikan Professional 15-Inch High Bright Beam Splitter Teleprompter With Travel Kit

If you're shopping for a photographer that wants to start a YouTube channel or is otherwise interested in producing video content, a professional teleprompter is certainly a gift that they will get a lot of use out of.

This 15-inch beam splitter teleprompter from Ikan is what I personally use in my home studio, and I couldn't be happier with it.

One of the best features of this teleprompter is its bright 1000 nit monitor. No matter if I have the studio lights on full blast with the window shades open or if I'm shooting at night with low light, I can clearly see the monitor and see the text I need to read.

Another nice feature you get with this teleprompter is its compatibility with different camera mount options. Whether you're using a small mirrorless camera or a dedicated video camera or something in between, this teleprompter can accommodate most rigs.

Setup is easy, too, with simple balancing and a quick-adjust base. The lightweight and compact design are also nice for small studios like I have, as well as for traveling. Speaking of which, this teleprompter comes with a handy travel case for easy transport.

Add in high-quality American-made 70/30 beam splitter glass, the ability to flip the image on the monitor, and the ability to read the monitor from up to 17 feet away, and you have the makings of a fantastic addition to your favorite photographer's or videographer's home studio!

Learn more about the Ikan Professional 15-Inch Bright Beam Splitter Teleprompter With Travel Kit

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens

Ask any photographer what the most versatile focal length is, and many will likely say it's 50mm

You can use a 50mm lens for all sorts of pursuits - portraiture, landscape photography, street photography, and videography, just to name a few.

Heck, you can even reverse-mount a 50mm and use it for macro photography!

In this case, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM goes above and beyond what a normal 50mm f/1.8 offers and gives photographers a bigger maximum aperture for light-collecting capabilities and improved bokeh.

And since this is a L-series lens, you get the advantage of improved optics for superb image quality.

That image quality is thanks in large part to the three aspherical and one UD element inside the lens. These elements help generate high image quality from center to corner with reduced aberrations and distortion.

This lens is also vibration-resistant, weather-sealed, and has fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements that help repel water and dust.

In other words, this lens was built to last to provide photographers with reliable service for years and years to come.

Learn more about the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Aputure Light Storm LC 120d II

APUTURE LIGHT STORM LC 120D II

Photography (and videography, for that matter), are all about good lighting. And when it's good lighting you're after, it's tough to beat the Aputure 120d II.

I have these lights in my home studio, and as I explain in my review of this light, I couldn't be happier with their features, performance, and ease of use.

One look at the spec sheet and you can see why I've been so impressed with the Aputure 120d II:

1000-watt Tungsten equivalent
Integrated power and control box
CRI & TLCI 97+
Dimmable from 100 percent to just 1 percent
Built-in lighting effects, including fireworks, fire, lightning, paparazzi, and TV flicker
18 dB quiet fan
DMX Capability
Wireless remote (328-foot range)

APUTURE LIGHT STORM LC 120D II 2

With this light, you get clean, beautiful lighting, the option to dim or brighten it from 1 to 100 percent, and you can select from a range of special effects, all in a light that offers quiet operation. Nice!

If you're shopping for a photographer or videographer that needs to upgrade their lighting setup, this is the one that should be at the top of your shopping list!

Learn more about the Aputure Light Storm LC 120d II

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Pre-Owned Nikon Z6

The Nikon Z6 is a fantastic mirrorless camera, and since it's been a couple of years since its release, its price has dropped - especially for pre-owned models.

Whether you're shopping for a Nikon shooter who could use an upgrade to a "new" camera or you're shopping for a photographer that wants to get into the Nikon Z ecosystem, this is a great choice.

The Z6 has a 24.5-megapixel full frame back-illuminated sensor that offers top-notch image quality with excellent detail, clarity, and sharpness.

The 12fps burst shooting speed is ideal for action photography while the 273-point autofocus system helps you keep track of moving targets.

PRE OWNED NIKON Z6 2

On the back is a large 3.2-inch variable-angle touchscreen LCD with 2.1 million dots of resolution, so you can easily see the camera's menu system and take a peek at images you've shot.

The Z6 has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, shoots 4K video, and has a battery life of 310 shots.

This camera is an excellent option for photographers that want a solid rig that can tackle still photos and videos all in one package!

Learn more about the Nikon Z6

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: CanvasHQ Print

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Holdfast Roamographer Duffle Bag, Camera Bag, and MoneyMaker

This might just be the ultimate photography setup...

If you want to impress a photographer, go ahead and give them a bundle of products from Holdfast.

Holdfast's venerable Roamographer bags not only look incredible, but they're also incredibly functional, too.

Give them the Roamographer Duffle Bag for those long weekends out taking photos.

The duffle is handcrafted out of American Bison hide and has a shearling-lined shoulder strap for easy carrying. It's the perfect bag for a quick trip, and with a metal frame that keeps the bag open during packing and unpacking, two boot bags to keep your shoes away from your clothes, and tons of pockets for small items, it'll become their favorite getaway bag.

To carry their gear, you can include a Holdfast Roamographer Camera Bag as well.

Like the duffle, the camera bag has a vintage aesthetic but with modern features.

The camera insert cradles each camera item, ensuring their safety during transit.

The carrier straps accommodate a tripod for easy carrying, and the shearling-lined shoulder strap makes it easy on your favorite photographer's shoulder to carry the bag, too.

While you're at it, you can throw in a Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera system.

The dual straps mean that a photographer can carry up to three cameras in ultimate comfort, and with their gear right at their fingertips for safe carrying.

What's more, for quick shots, their cameras are easy to reach, making the MoneyMaker just about the most functional gear you could give a photographer this holiday season.

And, like all other Holdfast products, the MoneyMaker looks like a million bucks.

You can pick up all three of these products and still have money to spare with a $2,500 budget!

Learn more about Holdfast products

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Pre-Owned Canon EOS R

PRE OWNED CANON EOS R

Back when the EOS R came out, it was groundbreaking for Canon since it was their first mirrorless camera.

It was the first Canon camera I owned, and it served me well - it will do the same for the photographer on your list!

The EOS R offers loads of features that include an ultra-resolute 30.3-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor.

Paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor, this camera is capable of shooting at 8fps and up to a native ISO range of 40000.

PRE OWNED CANON EOS R 2

What's more, Canon gave the EOS R excellent video capabilities with UHD 4K video recording at 30fps.

One of this camera's best features, though, is the Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system.

All told, it has 5,655 selectable autofocus points that allow photographers to quickly and accurately select where the focus of the image will be.

With a small, lightweight body, excellent build quality, great handling, and an increasingly large selection of lenses, the EOS R is definitely a fantastic gift idea this Christmas!

Learn more about the Canon EOS R

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

PROMEDIAGEAR PRO STIX TR424L CARBON FIBER TRIPOD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the ProMediaGear TR424L Carbon Fiber Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Medium Ballhead

We Recommend

Gifts for Photographers Under $250 - 2021 Edition

Written by PT Editor on 07 September 2021.

gifts for photographers under 250

^{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

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.

highline ballhead gifts for photographers under 250

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!

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!

floating frames for canvas prints

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.

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Best Ever Backdrops Mix and Match Backdrop

best ever backdrops holiday gift guide

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!

best ever backdrops under 250

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.

best ever backdrops

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

rode videomic ntg 1

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

rode videomic ntg 2

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

samys under 250 1

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.

samys under 250 2

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

sidetrak gifts for photographers under 250

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.

sidetrak 2

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.

sidetrak 3

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

onyx gifts for photographers under 250

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.

onyx 2

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 photography gift

^{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 photography gift

^{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

aputure

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.

aputure 2

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 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.

nomatic cube pack

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

photography gift idea zoom h4n

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.

zoom h4n

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

ek610

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.

ek650 2

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

Learn more about the reMarkable 2

We Recommend

Gifts for Photographers Under $500 - 2021 Edition

Written by PT Editor on 20 August 2021.

gifts for photographers under 500 2021 edition

^{Photo by Pekic via iStock}

With a $500 budget, there are a lot of incredible gifts for photographers you can buy this holiday season.

From used cameras in excellent condition to camera bags to monitors to improve their workflow, you can give gifts to your favorite photographer that just keep on giving.

And while it seems a little early to be talking about holiday shopping, with so many disruptions to our way of life from the pandemic, it certainly doesn't hurt to start your shopping a little early this year. Let this guide help you zero in on the perfect gifts!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: reMarkable 2

There are plenty of photographers that enjoy writing notes, brainstorming, and otherwise keeping their thoughts organized by using paper notebooks. I'm certainly one of those people.

But at some point, it becomes a little impractical to use paper notebooks, both because of the environmental impact and because of the space you need to store dozens of notebooks in your studio or office.

I, for one, had dozens of Moleskine notebooks floating around my office and it simply became overwhelming trying to keep them organized. So, I switched to paper-like writing on the reMarkable tablet a few years ago. The reMarkable 2 has since been released, and it's even better than the first!

The reMarkable 2 is super thin (the world's thinnest tablet!), lightweight, and has a great feel to it. The marker also feels great in your hands and gives you that tactile experience of writing with an actual pen and paper. I have no doubt that was a difficult thing to achieve, but boy, did the mad scientists at reMarkable figure it out!

The tablet has a 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM processor, 1GB of LPDDR3 SDRAM, 8GH of internal storage (that can accommodate around 100,000 pages of notes), and a marker with tilt-detection capabilities, 4,096 levels of pressure, and a high-friction tip. The marker doesn't require charging, setup, or pairing, either!

Since the tablet has a Linux-based Codex that's optimized for e-paper applications, there is ultra-low latency. You really do get the feeling that you're writing on paper!

You also get 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, USB-C connectivity, and an accessory port, in addition to a 3000mAH battery that is rechargeable via USB-C and will last up to two weeks on a single charge.

It has a beautiful screen, too. The second-generation CANVAS display gives you 10.3-inches of diagonal viewing space with 1872 x 1404 resolution at 226 DPI. Add multi-point capacitive touch, a gorgeous monochrome display, and a writing latency of just 21 milliseconds to the list.

I've had my reMarkable 2 for several months now and have enjoyed it profusely. You can read more about my experience with it in this review.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: SideTrak Solo 4k 15.6-Inch Touchscreen Freestanding Portable Monitor

sidetrak solo 4k 1

One thing that photographers require to get their work done is a high-quality monitor.

Good monitors have clear, sharp displays, beautiful colors, and an immersive viewing experience. And for many photographers, having touchscreen capabilities is a must as well. You get all these things (and more!) with the SideTrak Solo 4K 15.6-inch Touchscreen Freestanding Portable Monitor.

Aside from the features listed above, this monitor offers the benefit of being incredibly compatible with other devices. It will work with both Mac and PC, as well as Chrome. It can even be used with gaming consoles!

sidetrak solo 2

The 15.6-inch 4K IPS LED screen offers gorgeous color rendition, thin bezels for a seamless picture, and a matte finish to reduce glare. Add to that 10-point touch G+FF technology that enables users to be more productive and multi-task.

You get adjustable settings for brightness, display settings, volume, and the screen orientation too.

sidetrak solo 3

And at 14.5” x 9” x 0.35” and 2.9 pounds, this is a lightweight, ultra-portable monitor that can go from the office to home to the field without issue.

With a budget of $500, you can get a lot of great gifts for the photographer on your list. Speaking from experience, a portable monitor is one of the best additions I’ve made to my kit - the photographer you’re shopping for will think the same when they unbox this monitor!

Learn more about the SideTrak Solo 4k 15.6-Inch Touchscreen Freestanding Portable Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: CanvasHQ Print

It's tough to beat a large-format canvas print as a holiday gift...

Canvas prints offer a classic look with an interesting texture that helps bring the image to life.

What's more, when it's a well-made canvas, like those from CanvasHQ, the print can become a family heirloom - something that you cherish for decades to come. What a powerful gift!

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

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!

floating frames for canvas prints

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.

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm Lens

samys under 500 1

If you have a photographer on your holiday gift list that wants to upgrade from using their cell phone or an older digital camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a great option.

The fine folks at Samy’s have the T7 bundled with an 18-55mm kit lens for just $449, so you can help your loved one advance their photography skills while being well under the $500 mark.

The Rebel line of cameras from Canon are aimed at beginner photographers, so they feature easy-to-use controls, yet they also offer features that will allow your loved one to learn new skills, perfect their photographic approach, and take high-quality images.

samys under 500 2

This camera has a 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor that generates images that are resolute enough to create large-format prints. If instant sharing is preferable, you can do so easily with built-in WiFi and NFC to share images quickly and easily with family and friends.

Other features include a 3.0-inch LCD display, full HD video recording, up to 3 fps continuous shooting for action shots, and an ISO range of 100-6400. The Canon T7 also comes equipped with a built-in flash, a fast autofocus system, and the camera can be used as a webcam.

And since this bundle includes an 18-55mm zoom lens, your loved one will be able to begin using the camera right off the bat - no need for them to spend their own money on a lens. In other words, this is a perfect gift idea for the photography enthusiast on your list!

Learn more about the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: SideTrak Swivel Portable Monitor

sidetrak swivel 1

As a photographer that has a laptop as my primary computer, I know the struggles of having enough screen space to get things done.

And my guess is that you have a photographer in your life that struggles with the same thing…

But the SideTrak Swivel Portable Monitor is a great solution to this problem.

You can instantly double the amount of screen space that’s available by attaching the SideTrak Swivel to the back of a laptop. It’s easy, too!

sidetrak swivel 2

The Swivel attaches securely to the laptop screen using a device-safe metal plate and is compatible with any laptop size or operating system.

Once attached, the photographer on your holiday list will reap the benefits of having a 12.5-inch full HD screen in addition to the laptop screen. The Swivel can either mirror what’s on the laptop screen or extend it - whatever is needed!

Plus, the Swivel rotates 270-degrees and swivels 360-degrees for greater functionality and ease of use. Speaking of ease of use, it can be used while attached to a laptop or with the built-in kickstand in either landscape or portrait mode.

sidetrak swivel 3

With features like auto screen rotation, adjustable brightness, and an anti-glare screen, this is a gift that’s loaded up with benefits.

Plus, at just 1.2 pounds, this monitor is something that can slide into a camera bag or briefcase and be taken on the road with ease.

SideTrak offers free standard shipping, a one-year warranty, and a risk-free 30-day program, too. That’s the kind of peace of mind you want when shopping for a gift for a loved one!

Learn more about the SideTrak Swivel Portable Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Sound Shark

sound shark

The video capabilities of today's cameras have come a long way - I mean, we can record in 8K now!

But where modern cameras still lack high-quality performance is in their audio recording capabilities. That's why something like the Sound Shark from Klover Products is such a great gift idea for the photographer on your list.

The Sound Shark offers incredible clarity at a greater distance than a standard mic. So, if you're recording video, the person speaking doesn't even need to wear a microphone if they're within about six feet of the Sound Shark. The sound is truly amazing - it sounds like you're wearing a lavalier mic even when you aren't!

sound shark 2

The parabolic design also helps eliminate background noise, so your video has clear, crisp audio to go with beautiful high-resolution video footage.

On top of that, the Sound Shark is water and weather-resistant, so if you get caught in an afternoon drizzle, you won't have to worry about your microphone getting damaged.

At just 10 ounces and 11” x 9” x 3” in size, this mic is lightweight and easy to use, too. It truly is an incredible gift idea if the photographer you're shopping for has aspirations to be a videographer.

Learn more about the Sound Shark

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

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list has a lot of gear that they need to carry easily, there's no better solution than this 50L bag from f-stop.

This new-and-improved Tilopa comes with all sorts of features like DuraDiamond 315D HT nylon ripstop material, an internal metal frame, and Contoured BLOOM EVA padded hip belt and shoulder straps for making it a comfortable carrying experience.

The bags by f-stop are always impeccably designed and built, and the new Tilopa is no exception...

It features 700 Nylon Ripstop lining fabric, 500mm Polyurethane coating, and heavy-duty stitching with industrial-bonded thread. There's even weatherproof heavy-gauge zippers that help ensure whatever photography gear is inside the bag stays nice and dry.

With 50 liters of capacity, this bag can accommodate a heck of a lot of gear. And all that gear can be neatly organized in a number of different f-stop ICUs that fit inside the bag.

And as if all those features aren't enough, the bag comes with a 45-day full satisfaction guarantee. If you don't like the bag, you get a full refund!

There's also a 20-year warranty against manufacturer defects for added peace of mind.

This is simply an incredible bag and one that any adventurous photographer would love to call their own!

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

Blackfire 500W Portable Power Station

blackfire 500w power station front 1

I know what you’re thinking...why is there a portable power station on a gift guide for photographers?

Well, it’s simple! When your favorite photographer is out on a photo shoot and needs to charge their phone, tablet, drone batteries, camera batteries, or run their laptop or another small appliance like photography lights, they need a power source to do so. And this 500W Portable Power Station from Blackfire certainly fits the bill.

What’s so nice about this power station is that photographers can charge it up at home before they head out and have hours of clean, silent power for their devices. Better still, this power station can be charged in the car or with an optional solar panel, giving you three different ways of topping off the battery.

Keeping track of battery power and output is simple with the large, easy-to-read display on the front of the unit. There, you’ll find details about the battery like input and output data as well as how much time is needed to charge the battery (or how much time is left until the battery is empty).

In terms of power outputs, this power station packs a punch with a 12V DC port, two 120V AC ports, and four USB ports (two Type-A, one Type-C, and one Type-C PD). In other words, no matter what the photographer on your holiday list needs to charge up, this power station will have them covered.

I also really like the size of this power station. It weighs just 12.1 pounds and measures 11.8'' × 7.5'' × 7.3”, so it’s supremely portable. When you have a ton of camera gear to lug around, you don’t want to add a big, bulky power station to the mix. But since this one is so small and lightweight (and has a nice, big handle), it’s easy to carry from the car to the shoot location.

Whoever you give this to will appreciate the pedigree that’s associated with Blackfire. While Blackfire is new to the power station space, it’s owned by Klein Tools, which have been making high-quality tools for well over 150 years. It’s that kind of experience that you want behind a product you invest your hard-earned money in!

There are plenty of great gift ideas for the photographer in your life, but with a budget of $500, it’s tough to beat the versatility and functionality of this power station!

Learn more about the Blackfire 500W Portable Power Station

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: DJI Mini SE

If you live outside the United States you may have already had access to the DJI Mini SE for a while now, but for those of us in the U.S., it only recently became available.

This little drone weighs about as much as a smartphone, yet has a 30-minute flight time, a 2.7K camera, the ability to take 12MP photos, and a 3-axis gimbal. It’s also equipped with DJI’s QuickShot functions, including “circle,” “helix,” “rocket,” and “dronie.”

The Mini SE offers upgraded wind resistance as well. It can resist winds from 18 mph up to 23.6 mph. It can also take off at altitudes of 13,100 feet, so whether you're at the beach on a windy day or high in the mountains, this little drone will service you well.

The best news is that the Mini SE is priced at just $299. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, especially when you have a budget of $500.

Learn more about the DJI Mini SE

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Holdfast Sightseer Camera and Lens Modular System

holdfast sightseer exterior

One of the things that gets in the way of taking great photos is not being able to carry all the gear that you need in comfort. Additionally, problems arise when you aren’t able to easily access your gear when you need it.

The Holdfast Sightseer solves both of those problems for the photography lover on your shopping list this holiday season.

The Sightseer holds a crazy amount of gear for a small bag. That includes up to a 13-inch laptop, a camera with lens attached, two additional lenses, and all the needed accessories inside the bag.

But because it’s a modular system, you can add even more gear by adding Lens Pouches that attach to the exterior of the bag (or you can carry them on the Holdfast MoneyMaker or even on your own belt). That means that the big zoom lens that won’t fit in the bag can be carried safely in a padded Lens Pouch attached to the outside.

holdfast sightseer lens pouch small

Since the Sightseer is a truly modular system, you can mix and match lens pouches as you need to carry as much or as little gear as the situation calls for. What’s more, this system can grow with you as you get more gear - start out lean and mean with just the Sightseer bag, and as more lenses are accumulated, add Lens Pouches as needed.

Better still, because your gear is easily accessible, you don’t have to worry about missing a shot.

It’s easy to carry, too. Just use the two sets of carrying handles, the shoulder strap, or attach it to the Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera strap for a super easy way to get your gear from point A to point B.

These bags look amazing, too, with a waxed canvas and American Bison leather exterior and an Aztec flannel fleece interior. In other words, the Sightseer is the complete package!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer

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

gifts for photographers under 500 2021 edition eos m50

A pre-owned camera is an ideal gift for a photographer because it saves you money and gives them a like-new gift that serves every purpose and function that the same brand-new camera would provide.

In this case, the Canon EOS M50 is a nice option for a beginner photographer's first camera or a more advanced photographer that needs a second camera body.

The M50 sports a 224.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that's paired with Canon's DIGIC 8 processor. If the photographer on your list likes to photograph wildlife or action, the 10 fps burst shooting rate will be a nice bonus.

eos m50

This camera boasts a host of other features, too.

For example, it has a native ISO range of 100-25600 that's expandable to 51200 for shooting in low-light situations. It has a host of video capabilities as well, including UHD 4K video at 24fps, full HD video at 60fps, and 720p video at 120fps for slow-motion video capture.

For still imagery, the M50 has Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which helps generate accurate, sharp images thanks to quick autofocu performance. This feature also works for shooting video.

Add in 5-axis image stabilization to the mix and you have the makings of a well-featured camera for still photography and videography use!

Learn more about the Canon EOS M50.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: f-stop Anja 37L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

anja 1 1

If the f-stop Tilopa 50-liter bag is a bit too big for your loved one's needs, the Anja 37-liter bag might just do the trick.

While this bag is smaller than the Tilopa, it offers many of the same upgrades and benefits discussed earlier.

For example, the outer shell is crafted of the same highly-durable DuraDiamond fabric that's also lighter, stronger, and more weather resistant than other materials.

The Anja also features weather-resistant zippers that are woven in for much greater strength.

anja 2 1

The structure of the back is a combination of T6 aluminum and plastic that gives the bag loads of strength without adding weight. The aluminum frame shifts the weight of the pack to the hips for improved all-day comfort.

The bag has all kinds of organization and storage features inside, in the pockets, lid, and back panel.

And, like the Tilopa, the Anja can accommodate various ICUs, including the Slope Medium and the Pro Large.

Again, this bag is beautifully designed, impeccably crafted, and offers smart storage and organization for tons of gear. Talk about a great holiday gift idea!

Learn more about the f-stop Anja 37L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

What photographer doesn't want or need an awesome camera bag?? As such, a camera bag is a fantastic idea for the photographer on your list.

My primary bag is thePeter McKinnon Nomatic Camera Pack, and I can't say enough about what an incredible bag this thing is.

As I explain in the video above, not only is this a beautiful bag, this is also incredibly versatile and full of features. Just take a look at some of its primary features:

Holds 35 liters of gear (and expands to hold a whopping 42 liters)
Water-resistant
External straps to carry items like your tripod
Removable interior dividers for customizing the bag to your needs
Easy side access for quickly grabbing your camera
Comfortable straps (including chest strap and waist belt) for a more comfortable carrying experience
Space for your clothes too!

You can tell that this bag was designed by a photographer. It is simply fantastic from the standpoints of size, customization, comfort, and ease of use.

This bag is $400, and while that might seem like a lot, when you consider that this is a bag that you’ll have for YEARS, it’s really a long-term investment. Besides, since there's compartments for camera gear and clothing, it's the perfect weekend bag!

Sure, you can buy a cheap bag, but when you are carrying around gear on your back, don’t you want the most comfortable bag you can get?

Learn more about the Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Colorado Tripod Company Aspen Ballhead

aspen ballhead

If you've never heard of Colorado Tripod Company, you've been missing out...

I've tested a number of their products, and regardless of whether it was a tripod or a ballhead, these guys have impressed the heck out of me.

If you have a photographer on your list, I strongly urge you to consider the Aspen Ballhead as a great gift idea for under $250. Here's why...

This ballhead has a capacity of 30 pounds, so even photographers with the largest camera and lens combination will be able to use this bad boy.

aspen ballhead 2

It's made of aluminum and comes in two different ball designs - standard and hollow - the latter of which weighs just .97 pounds.

The ballhead has an adjustable level clamp on top that's compatible with L-brackets and Arca plates. There's also dedicated friction control and replaceable locking knobs. On top of that, the patent-pending design eliminates panning drift.

I've used this ballhead in all sorts of scenarios taking photos and videos, and it has proven to be a durable, reliable, and easy-to-use ballhead that improves my workflow.

aspen ballhead 3

Plus, that hollow ball design is simply genius - it's one of those things that makes you say, "Why didn't someone think of that before?"

The hollow design helps save weight, which for landscape photographers is a BIG deal. Plus, this ballhead has an incredible range of motion that gives photographers all the versatility they need to capture their photos and videos. In fact, you can adjust the Aspen ballhead beyond the 90-degree limit, so you can likely move from vertical to horizontal orientation without having to adjust the tripod's legs. That's a HUGE benefit!

Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Aspen Ballhead

We Recommend

Gimbals 101

Written by PT Editor on 10 February 2020.

Gimbals 101

^{Photo by Avel Chuklanov on Unsplash}

If I’m being honest, gimbals were the last tools I learned how to use for my photography business, primarily because I put buying one off for so long since I didn’t think I needed one.

But, once I bought one and learned how to use it, gimbals were my best friend. Now I use my gimbal on a daily basis.

In this Gimbals 101 article, I’m going to explain the science behind gimbals, how to use one properly, and give you some of my favorite gimbals for every budget.

What is a Gimbal?

how to use a gimbal 1

^{Photo by Frank Zhang on Unsplash}

A gimbal is a type of stabilizer. It pivots to allow you to rotate your camera and do so independently from you.

Gimbals are used to stabilize your camera when it moves left or right, up and down, or pretty much any other direction you can think of, which is why videographers love them.

The traditional 3-axis gimbal, which is the type of gimbal I’m covering here, has the pitch axis (up and down movement), the yaw axis (left and right movement) and the roll axis (unleveled movements).

Techquickie explains all of the technology behind how a gimbal works in the video above.

Give it a watch, and you’ll come away with a much better understanding of the technology that makes gimbals so valuable.

How to Use a Gimbal

how to use a gimbal 2

^{photo by molchanovdmitry via iStock}

The first thing you need to do before trying out your gimbal for the first time is balance your gimbal.

First, you will attach your camera to your gimbal. Then allow your camera to fall as it will in the gimbal. Does it fall forward? Does it fall backward?

Chances are it will fall forward because your lens is where most of your camera’s weight is. In order to adjust the tilt, move the tilt bracket up or down until your camera feels balanced.

Then, just to double check, point your camera straight up to see if it is truly balanced.

Learn More:

Tips for Shooting With a Gimbal

Aputure’s video on shooting with a gimbal is pretty awesome because they quickly cover every move you will need to know to get started.

But, you’ll also need to keep traditional rules of photography in mind while playing around with your gimbal.

For instance, keep objects in the foreground of your shots. Doing so will allow you to put emphasis on the way the camera is moving. It makes the scene much more dynamic!

Get Close to Your Subject

gimbals for video 3

^{photo by Alessandro Biascioli via iStock}

When you’re closer to your subject it’s also easier for you to show off the way your camera moves.

Plus, you can track subjects easier with this type of stabilization so you can follow a character from behind.

Another way to both keep something in the foreground and get close to your subject is to get close to the ground and track the subject from behind. This low-angle tracking view can be extremely visually interesting.

Plan Shots

gimbals for video 4

^{Photo by Warren Berchie on Unsplash}

Planning your shots when using a gimbal is even more important than planning your shots with your typical equipment.

One way to do so is to shoot all of your gimbal shots together so you don’t waste time balancing your gimbal more times than you need to.

Plus, while you’re going through the process of planning your shots you can make sure that you’ve used the tips we’ve already mentioned like keeping objects in the foreground of your shots and getting close to your subjects.

Best Gimbals for All Budgets

how to use a gimbal for video 5

^{photo by Mumemories via iStock}

You can have all the gimbal tips in the world, but if you don’t own one then there’s not much you can do.

Thankfully, like most camera technology, gimbals are being produced at cheaper and cheaper prices. So, I’ll start with the cheapest option and head on to the more expensive versions.

Zhiyun-Tech Smooth-4 Smartphone Gimbal (Best Smartphone Gimbal)

best gimbal for smartphones

The Zhiyun-Tech Smooth-4 Smartphone Gimbal is just $100 and it works with every single smartphone.

This gimbal has a battery life of 12 hours, and if your phone doesn’t quite have a battery life that long (I’m looking at you, Apple lovers), your gimbal can charge your phone directly during shooting, which is the most fun quality about this gimbal.

best gimbal for smartphones 2

This gimbal has a 300-degree pan angle, and a 240-degree tilt and roll angle, and weighs just over 1 lb at 19 oz.

It can hold a phone up to 7.4 oz, and since most smartphones weigh under 5 oz. there’s an incredibly good chance it will work perfectly for you.

Ikan MS-Pro Beholder (Best Mid-Range Gimbal)

best mid range gimbal

The Ikan MS-Pro Beholder is more expensive at $360, however for specs this great, the price is worth it.

The Ikan MS-Pro Beholder has a load capacity of 1.98 lbs, so it will work best with light DSLRs or mirrorless set ups, as well as smartphones and GoPros. It features a 360 degree pan angle, and a 355 tilt and roll angle.

The battery lasts anywhere from 8 to 10 hours of continuous shooting and it weighs just 2 lbs.

Think Media did a review of Ikan’s MS-Pro Beholder that shows you all of the features in action.

DJI Ronin-S (Best Expensive Gimbal)

best expensive gimbal

The DJI Ronin-S is not for the faint of heart given its price tag of $750, but if you need a gimbal that provides the most flexibility, this is it.

It features 360-degree pan, tilt and roll angles, can carry up to 8 pounds of equipment and lasts for 12 hours of continuous shooting.

best expensive gimbal 2

It weighs just over 4 lbs itself, and can act as a stabilized remote head when mounted to a jib. Plus, it can mount to an RC buggy to grab really low-angle shots.

So, no matter what your budget might be, there is a gimbal out there ready to help you get beautifully smooth video footage.

Check out the sample gimbals I’ve listed above, do some more research, and get the gimbal that best suits your needs.

Learn More:

We Recommend

How to Market Yourself as a Videographer

Written by PT Editor on 23 December 2019.

How to Market Yourself as a Videographer

^{photo bytuaindeed via iStock}

Most of the better DSLR and mirrorless cameras on the market today are every bit as capable of making outstanding videos as they are creating superb still images.

This opens up the possibility of marketing yourself as a videographer and a photographer. How would you go about doing this? What marketing tips for videographers are useful?

Start With the Basics

marketing tips for videographers 1

^{Photo by Chris Murray on Unsplash}

Starting with the basics in this instance includes making sure that you can actually produce high-quality videos with your equipment.

One aspect of this is evaluating your videography skills. Having awesome photography skills means you could probably make good video, but it’s not a guarantee.

Many of the principle skills and techniques crossover from still imaging to videography. Good lighting techniques in particular work well in both arts.

Filmmakers studying cinematography concentrate more on lighting than on camera operation. And rightly so, since light is the essential element of imaging of any kind.

marketing tips for videographers 2

^{photo byEnes Evren via iStock}

A second aspect is to know exactly what your equipment is capable of in regards to videography. Some cameras, even from the same brand, will have better video capability than others. If your current camera needs an upgrade, a full service camera store such as Samy’s is a good resource for you.

Well, that’s enough of the basics, let’s examine how to market yourself as a videographer.

Learn More:

Marketing Tips for Videographers

marketing tips for videographers 3

^{photo bySDI Productions via iStock}

There are several types of videographers that need to market themselves.

Type 1 is an established professional photographer in any genre of still imaging but who wishes to expand into video.

If this is you, you are familiar with marketing techniques in general but will need to learn some new marketing strategies. Just like you had to learn new things to include videography as a skill set.

Type 2 is a professional videographer who wants to expand their business in some way. If this is you, you either already have local clients or you have worked for someone else doing their videography.

marketing tips for videographers 4

^{photo byFilipovic018 via iStock}

In order to expand, you need to know good marketing techniques in general and the special considerations of how to market yourself as a videographer

Type 3 is a skilled photographer/videographer that is very capable in either still or video or both but who has yet to market themselves.

If this is you, it’s likely you have done some for profit work, but just need some guidance and maybe a good push in order to go to the next level.

Create a Stellar Demo Reel

how to advertise video services 1

^{Photo by Denise Jans on Unsplash}

An essential step in learning how to advertise video services is having something to show potential clients. A demo reel to include on a website or to send to people is how you show that you are a videographer worthy of their consideration.

That term “Demo Reel” goes way back to the predigital world of music and film. An actual reel of tape or movie film was played for clients or sent to them by courier or mail. We still use the term even though we are now referring to digital files.

For you Type 1 and Type 3 videographers listed above, this is the same thing as maintaining a portfolio of still images.

Be a Social Media Star

how to advertise video services 2

^{photo byCASEZY via iStock}

Sure, there are already lots of videos being shown all over social sites. In order to effectively market video services for yourself, join the crowd. You won’t ever be noticed if you’re not there.

Your demo reel will need to be eye-catching in order to stop the scrolling or swiping. This means you may also have to edit it down a bit to fit the upload parameters of the major social media sites.

Editing a shorter version is okay, you can always include a link to a webpage with your longer demo reel or multiple files or your work. Editing software and hardware from Samy’s can make that job easier for you.

Learn More:

Target Specific Markets

how to advertise video services 3

^{photo bystock_colors via iStock}

Among all of the fine discussions concerning how to market video services, this simple concept sometimes gets overlooked.

If you want to sell ice-cold drinks to thirsty people, you go to where you know there will be thirsty people hanging out, right?

Same with your video marketing strategy. Perhaps you are currently concentrating on wedding videography. Joining message boards or other online communities for wedding planning is a good way to get in front of potential clients.

Be mindful of forum rules, though. Don’t be the annoying guy who gets banned for spamming!

how to advertise video services 4

^{photo byVolodymyr Shtun via iStock}

Print magazines and newsletters still exist, too. Buy a small ad in a pet magazine to advertise the pet video services you’re already providing.

Maybe the music scene is what drives you. Go to local festivals, again being mindful of rules and regulations, and show your face to up and coming acts.

It couldn’t hurt to have with you a device with your demo reel loaded on to it so you can show others what you are capable of. Print business cards with your demo reel or portfolio link on it.

That’s just three brief ideas of how to market yourself as a videographer. You can probably come up with several more simply by extrapolating from these.

Take the Leap

how to market video services

^{Photo by Prince Akachi on Unsplash}

All of the best ideas and methods of how to market yourself as a videographer won’t even have a chance of working if you don’t try it out in the first place.

What’s holding you back? Is it worries about your equipment? That’s one of the more simple things to fix. Examine your current equipment - cameras, lenses, lighting, editing software and hardware. If you want to upgrade, look at a top retailer like Samy’s to choose what works best for you.

Are you concerned that you’re not good enough yet? Two things I will say about that. You are probably already quite skilled in many aspects of videography. You can improve anything at any time by taking classes, online or in person.

Does marketing yourself as a professional videographer scare you? Understandable. But like a certain shoe manufacturer says, just do it.

You have to start somewhere. Use these marketing tips for videographers to either get started or get better at marketing yourself as a professional videographer.

We Recommend

How to Plan a Video Shoot

Written by PT Editor on 10 January 2020.

How to Plan a Video Shoot

^{Photo by Anastase Maragos on Unsplash}

Video shoots are lengthy. They typically need more preparation than photoshoots, and require more people, which is always tricky.

If you’re here to learn how to plan a video shoot, then chances are you are starting to get offers for your videography or you’re planning on expanding into videography soon.

And if you’re planning a video shoot, or are planning to plan a video shoot, then the time to start looking at video production tips is now. That’s because there is no way to be over-prepared for a video shoot!

Here’s a few tips to help you get started...

Figure Out the Who, What, When, Where and Why

planning a video shoot 1

^{Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash}

The first step to planning a video shoot is figuring out the purpose of your video. Who is your audience? What is the theme of your video? What do you hope your audience remembers after it’s over?

Additionally, if your video is going to be longer than a couple of minutes, you need to figure out how to keep your audience’s attention throughout the video because we are experiencing historically low attention spans due to the internet.

All of these questions should be answered in strategy meetings in the months leading up to your video shoot. And as the director, you should be open to hearing a variety of opinions in these meetings because the working relationship you establish in strategy meetings will bleed over into the rest of your video shoot.

Even if you’re a solo video producer and you don’t have a team to have a strategy meeting with, you still need to consider these questions so you can develop a plan of attack that will result in an attention-grabbing video.

Learn More:

Define Your Team and Their Roles

planning a video shoot 2

^{photo by brightstars via iStock}

If you’re Googling, “how to plan a video shoot,” then chances are that you are the director, i.e. the person in charge of everything in the video shoot.

But, you need to establish who you want in a plethora of roles, including the producer, the video engineer and audio engineer, and the talent. In the best case scenario, you already have a network of videographer professionals in your town.

But, if you don’t that just means it’s going to take extra effort reaching out to people you do know and figuring out their contacts.

planning a video shoot 3

^{photo byguruXOOX via iStock}

Your roles will need to remain flexible throughout the shoot, though, because oftentimes these roles overlap and are switched during the course of shooting based on what the needs of the client are, or based on shifting availability.

If you’re a solo act or just have a couple of friends to help you tackle the big stuff, the same suggestions apply - identify who’s doing what, but be prepared to jump in when need be.

Write Down Your Timeline

video pre production tips 4

^{photo by Pra-chid via iStock}

This may seem like a daunting pre-production task, but simply begin by writing down all of the dates that cannot be moved. Write down when the client expects their deliverables.

Then, work your way backwards in your calendar to figure out a rough timeline.

One of my favorite video pre-production tips is to start implementing technology as early on in the process as possible. For example, ensure you are entering all of these dates in a calendar like Google Calendar or another calendar app that can be easily shared with all of the members of your team.

video pre production tips 5

^{photo by peshkov via iStock}

Video shoots are inherently technological, so it makes sense to get your team used to communicating via technology early on in the process.

This is another step in the video shoot planning process that isn’t set in stone. Don’t panic if you don’t follow your rough draft calendar you created before any actual production started happening. It’s normal and your schedule will be thrown off.

Learn More:

Be Accountable and Prepared

video pre production tips 6

^{Photo by Thomas Drouault on Unsplash}

This tip plays into the rest of the video pre-production tips because it’s all about communication between your team members.

You’ll want to hold meetings on a regular basis to ensure everyone knows exactly what is expected of them and when.

As the director, you should also ensure someone is charged with holding you accountable for your deliverables. This way your team knows that you are trustworthy and that you are leading by example.

video production tips 7

^{photo by marchmeena29 via iStock}

You should also implement technology into your team’s accountability. Slack is a great tool, for example, to keep everyone in constant communication without an annoying text chain.

Part of accountability, though, is preparation. By having the right gear by your shoot dates, you will show your team, once again, that you are trustworthy.

That’s why I use Samy's Camera to get all of my gear for my video shoots. Their shipping is always on time, they have a wide array of production gear that matches every budget. I love that I can buy everything I need for my video shoot in one place. It’s just one less thing I have to do.

Draft Lists for Everything

Eric Siu’s video on pre-production checklists is invaluable because it highlights how important writing things down is.

No matter how organized you are, if you need to remember a list of all of your equipment for 12 different scenes, you’re going to forget something if it isn’t all written down in one place.

You’ll want lists of equipment, lists of your shooting schedules, and lists of things you think you’re going to forget, like water bottles for the talent and extra batteries for your cameras.

Figure Out the Lighting

pilotfly atomcube 1

Part of your planning process should include developing a lighting scheme for each scene you wish to shoot.

Not that long ago, this would have meant using expensive and complex lighting, but that's just not the case these days.

In fact, with a few pocket-sized lights, you can get all the lighting you need to create dynamic video footage.

I've been using the PilotFly AtomCube RX1 for a while now, and it's proven to be an incredibly valuable resource.

pilotfly atomcube 2

For starters, it's beautifully built and durable, which is important for me because I need this light to go from my studio to on-location sites and back and stay in one piece.

I also love the fact that it's so small and portable - yet still puts out such beautiful, bright, and clean light. In fact, it has a CRI of 95+ and a TLCI of 97, so you know you’re getting excellent quality lighting for your projects.

The smartphone control is a nice feature, too, that makes this light incredibly easy to use and adjust.

pilotfly atomcube 6

Even better, you can connect up to 255 of these lights together and control them all via your smartphone. Talk about easy control!

With the ability to fully dim the lights, adjust the saturation, and adjust the color temperature, as well as utilize one of 12 built-in color schemes, you have all the customization options you need right at your fingertips!

Relax

video production tips 8

^{Photo by Esther Tuttle on Unsplash}

Once you’ve prepared as well as possible, you’ll want to try and control your stress. Since learning how to plan a video shoot is extremely, extremely stressful.

Some tips for controlling your stress before the shoot day include exercising regularly, getting 8 hours of sleep every night, and when you inevitably wake up during those 8 hours because you forgot some small piece of equipment, head over to Samys to pick it up.

samys website

Samy’s will expedite your shipment for free if you spend over $50 on camera gear, and let’s be honest.. when was the last time you spent less than that for a video shoot?

Plus, they feature thousands of pieces of equipment, so even if your video shoot requires an extra fancy lens or a specific drone, they’ll probably have it to you in no more than 3 days.

What’s not to like about that?!

Learn More:

We Recommend

Making the Move to Canon Mirrorless

Written by PT Editor on 06 December 2019.

Making the Move to Canon Mirrorless

^{photo byaf_istocker via iStock}

If you’ve followed my articles here on PhotographyTalk for any amount of time, you likely know that I’ve been a Nikon shooter forever.

I added a few Sony bodies to my camera bag along the way and a Panasonic GH5, too.

But as I discuss in my video below, the Sonys and Panasonic never quite fit the bill for what I needed them to do.

So, what did I do? I got my first Canon camera - the EOS R.

As I explain in the video, there was some trepidation on my part.

Would the EOS R feel good in my hand?

Had Canon really fixed the autofocus issues in the EOS R?

Would I be able to easily figure out the controls and customize the camera to my liking?

When switching to a new brand of camera, these and other questions are certainly legitimate, especially if you’ve been brand loyal for as long as I had.

But I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised with just how easy it was to get used to the EOS R. In fact, I’m kind of wondering why I didn’t make the switch sooner!

It’s been about a week since I released my video on the EOS R, so I wanted to fill in some gaps and explain a few other reasons why making the move to Canon mirrorless has been such a good experience for me.

I Love the EOS R Sensor

canon eos r sensor

Let me start by saying that the Nikon Z7 has a better sensor than the EOS R.

However, as my first experience with a Canon full frame camera, I’ve been impressed with the 30.3-megapixel CMOS sensor in this thing.

It’s the same sensor as the 5D Mark IV, and it has the same DIGIC 8 image processor as the Mark IV.

DxOMark gave this sensor a score of 89, which isn’t the top score by any means. But it still indicates solid performance with good color depth for portraits, dynamic range for landscapes, and excellent low-light performance.

The EOS R Electronic Viewfinder is a Dream

I know some folks haven’t been completely impressed with the EOS R’s viewfinder, but personally, I think it’s fantastic.

It offers roughly the same resolution as the one on my Z7 (about 3.69 million dots) and roughly the same magnification at 0.76x.

I’ve found it to be clear, bright, resolute, and easy to read.

The best part, though, is that the display in the EVF (and on the LCD) rotates when you shoot in portrait mode. Clearly, this makes it far easier to see the information that’s displayed.

Canon RF Lenses are Incredible

I mostly use the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8. It is a superb lens all the way around.

Yeah, it’s a BIG lens, but it isn’t big in the sense that it’s unwieldy.

Instead, just like the EOS R body, this lens handles well and feels surprisingly good in the hand.

And who wouldn’t like the customizable control ring that Canon added in front of the focus ring.

You can use the control ring for all sorts of things, including adjusting the aperture, shutter speed, or ISO.

Learn More:

The EOS R Has Tons of Innovative Features

canon eos r innovative features

Lastly, I really appreciate the thought that Canon put into designing this camera.

It records at true 24p, rather than 23.98p like most cameras. Is that a huge deal? No…

But that’s a feature not found on many non-cinema cameras, and for me, that shows Canon’s dedication to developing a rock-solid camera system.

I also like the multi-function bar that Canon added to the EOS R. You can program custom functions using the bar, and the camera will remember the settings when you switch from shooting stills to shooting video. I don’t think the multi-function bar has reached anywhere near its potential yet, though. Firmware updates in the future should make it an even better asset.

Another feature I’m in love with is the fact that when the camera is off and you remove the lens, the shutter is closed. This helps keep the sensor clean and reduces the amount of time I have to spend cleaning - which is a definite bonus.

I’m sure I’ll find many other things I really like about the EOS R as I use it more and more.

But for now, these are just a few of my favorite things about this camera. So far, the EOS R pros definitely outweigh the cons!

Canon EOS R bodies are currently $500 off at Samy’s Camera. You can also pick up an EOS R with an RF 24-105mm f/4L lens for $700 off.

Learn More:

Canon EOS R: The Sleeping Giant

We Recommend

Nikon 14-30mm f/4 S - A Serious Lens for Landscapes?

Written by PT Editor on 16 July 2019.

nikon 14 30mm f4 s

Many of you have expressed interest in moving to the Nikon Z6 or Nikon Z7.

But many of you have also expressed reservations about doing so because of the limited native Z-mount glass currently available.

Sure, you can slap the FTZ mount adapter on a Z6 or Z7 that allows you to use your F-mount glass, but who wants to deal with that?

Heck, at the time of this writing, the Nikon Holy Trinity set of glass isn't even completely available. Well at least you have two-thirds available with the 14-30mm f/4 S Nikon lens and then you have 24-70mm f/4 and another f/2.8 version available of the 24-70mm.

I'll admit that I was a little worried about the f/4 aperture on my new 14-30mm f/4 S lens, and I assume many of you share the same concern.

Well, this weekend I traveled up to the hottest place on this planet to test this lens out - Death Valley.

For me, I was not sure about this lens, at least in the beginning. Let me explain why...

nikon 14 30mm f4 s hands on

Since Nikon released the 14-24mm f/2.8 back in 2007, it's been the backbone of most Nikon landscape photographers' camera bags.

It's big, heavy, and can be spotted from a mile away with that huge glass element bulging out of the lens.

In its early days, there weren't any filter options for it, which sucked. Then, a number of big filter kits from companies like NiSi, Formatt-Hitech, and Lee came onto the market.

I started shooting with this lens when I got my Nikon D700, then continued to use it with my D800, D810, and my late D850.

It was seriously one of my favorite lenses to use. It was fast, sharp and was a joy to use. And those days I missed the gym? Not a concern! I would get a solid work out just from slinging that thing around. But that was OK because the image quality was remarkable.

nikon 14 30mm f4 s review

So, what about my concerns with the new 14-30mm f/4 S?

Honestly, as I mentioned earlier, my primary reservation was the f/4 aperture. Aside from that, this lens has tons of great features. Here are its full specs:

Lens Mount: Nikon Z
Focal Length: 14-30mm
Aperture Range: f/4-f/22
Minimum Focusing Distance: 11.02"
Filter Size: 82mm
Groups/Elements: 12/14
Length: 3.35"
Maximum Diameter: 3.50"
Lens Format: Full Frame
Angle of View: 114 degrees to 72 degrees
Weight: 1.07 lbs

For starters, it costs significantly less than the 14-24mm f/2.8 - the 14-24mm f/2.8 runs $1,896.95 while the 14-30mm f/4 is $1,296.95. It's also a fraction of the weight at just 1.07 pounds, as noted above.

Plus, the 14-30mm f/4 takes an 82mm filter thread and is missing that huge glass bulb on the front of it. That's a huge advantage for landscape photographers that need to utilize an array of filters to perfect the shot.

nikon 14 30mm f4s sample

Let me tell you, this is one of those don't-judge-a-book-by-its-cover moments...

In my opinion, the 14-30mm gives the 14-24mm lens a serious run for its money.

The extreme weight reduction was a dream come true. The last thing I wanted was to lug around a big, heavy lens in the oppressive heat of Death Valley.

As you might expect, the internal focusing system was ultra-quiet with autofocusing that worked like a champ, even as dusk rolled around and there wasn't a ton of light.

nikon 14 30mm f4s landscape lens

I saw little-to-no funny business that some wide-angle lenses tend to have.

That's thanks to the construction of the lens, which includes four extra-low dispersion glass elements and four aspherical elements. Combined with Nikon's Nano Crystal coating, flare, ghosting, and aberrations are minimized.

Like its S-series compatriots, this lens has rounded aperture blades that render gorgeous bokeh, and the lens is sealed against dust (which was a good thing for Death Valley) and moisture (which, funnily enough, I didn't need in Death Valley!).

nikon 14 30mm

Aside from the technical aspects of this lens being impressive, I also enjoyed how the lens felt.

There's a nice, big rubber zoom ring that you feel like you can really get a handle of, even when your palms are sweaty from shooting in the hottest place imaginable.

The size and weight of the lens are ideal for landscapes, too. It feels well built, but without the bulk I noted earlier with the 14-24mm f/2.8.

Of course, that wide-angle view this lens offers gives you the opportunity to get tons of foreground interest in your shots. As you can see in my sample photos throughout this article, you can get images with tons of dimension thanks to all that foreground detail.

So, between the price, the size and weight, the focal length, and optical performance, this is truly a must-have landscape lens if you ask me. DxOMark agrees, for what that's worth.

nikon 14 30mm 3

Now let's talk about where I picked this lens up.

There are camera stores and then there is Samys.

I’ve known Samy for better part is decade. Matter of fact, I picked up my Nikon D800 from him when that camera first came out.

Then when my son was born and the Nikon D810 would be too much to carry in a diaper bag, I picked up the Sony a6300 from them.

What brings me back to Samy's is that the guy is the real deal - a bonified family man who loves the photography industry just as much. And his staff is the same way.

Camera gear like this lens is sold everywhere, so you can very easily pick this up on Amazon for the same price.

However, if you are tired of being treated like a number on an accounting spreadsheet and want to support a company who will treat you like an old friend, then give Samy's a shot. And if you get the chance to meet Samy himself, you'll see what I'm talking about!

We Recommend

Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Review

Written by PT Editor on 13 August 2019.

nikon 14 30mm f4 s review

Last month, I highlighted the performance of the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S on my trip to Death Valley.

It was a short trip, and the first such excursion I was able to take with this lens. Now that I've had more time to explore its capabilities, I have a more detailed review ready for you.

As I mentioned in my Death Valley article, though many folks have pondered a move to the Nikon Z6 or Nikon Z7, there has been some apprehension about the availability of glass for those cameras.

I'm here to tell you that even though the selection is thin at the moment, this lens and its S-series compatriots are certainly more than make up for it with quality.

Let's get to the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S review!

Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Specs
Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Handling & Build Quality
Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Optical Performance
Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Price

Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Specs

Since this is the first ultra-wide lens for Z-series cameras (and it will be the only one for about another year), it was met with universal interest.

It had a lot to live up to given that the image quality of its predecessors in the S-line of lenses has been nothing short of impeccable.

I'll get into the image quality later in this review, but for now, let's have a look at some of this lens's noteworthy specs:

Focal length: 14-30mm
Aperture range: f/4-f/22
Aperture blades: 7 rounded
Diaphragm: Electronic
Lens elements/groups: 14/13
Special elements: 4 aspherical, 4 ED
Coatings: Nano crystal, fluorine, super integrated
Mount: Metal
Filter size: 82mm

Many of these specs are self-explanatory, but there are a couple of things I'd like to point out.

First, note that this lens takes a standard 82mm filter. That's because there's not a huge, bulbous glass element on the front of the lens like the 14-24mm f/2.8.

Second, not only is the mount on this lens metal, but the lens is also weather and dust-sealed, so it's durable and up to the challenge of shooting in adverse conditions.

Other features worth noting are a near-silent AF-P stepper motor, a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches, and a viewing angle that ranges from 114-degrees to 72-degrees.

Lastly, this lens is miles smaller and lighter-weight than the 14-24mm f/2.8 I've been lugging around for years. Coming in at just 1.07 pounds, it's featherlight.

Get a complete rundown of the features of this lens in the video above by TheSnapChick.

Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Handling & Build Quality

As far as handling goes, the light weight and smaller form factor make for a pleasant shooting experience.

The lens doesn't weigh you down, nor does it feel overly obstructive, as I have found the 14-24mm f/2.8 to feel at times.

Beyond that, Nikon have done a fantastic job building this lens to improve handling.

In fact, as a long-time Nikon shooter, this feels like a Nikon lens - it's ergonomically spot-on, has familiar construction, and handles well. If you've ever used a Nikon lens before, this one will feel familiar to you.

From a design standpoint, it's sleek and minimal.

There's a single switch that's used to change from autofocus to manual, along with a focus ring and a zoom ring.

Some reviewers have noted that this sleek design is too streamlined, but for me, it's worked beautifully thus far.

It has a locking mechanism that makes the lens shorter when not in use, which gives you a little added room in your camera bag and less surface area to catch on things as you walk around (though it is too easy to unlock the lens inadvertently).

Though the mount is metal, there are many plastic parts on this lens, which at first is a little disconcerting. No one would blame you for wondering if it's actually a durable lens the first time you hold it.

But as you use it, you quickly realize that this is one heck of a well-built lens.

There is no wobble when the lens barrel is extended, its weather and dust-sealing are excellent, and it can tolerate extreme temperatures (at least on the high end, as I learned in Death Valley).

In addition to Death Valley, I've taken this lens to several beaches here in Southern California and no sand has made its way into the lens yet, so I'm impressed on that front!

Having said that, since this is an external zoom lens, I concede that there is always going to be a possibility that a grain or two of sand gets in there and makes zooming a more difficult task.

Likewise, external zoom lenses are more prone to water and dust creeping in. But, at this point, the build of this lens - particularly the seals Nikon used - seem to be more than capable of protecting the delicate internal components of the lens.

By the same token, the fluorine coating on the lens glass makes removing water, smudges, dust, and so forth a much easier task.

Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Optical Performance

This lens is surprisingly sharp throughout the aperture and zoom range.

Unsurprisingly, it's the least sharp on the edges of the frame at 14mm. Even zooming in to just 16mm improves corner sharpness. It's important to note that the corners are never supremely sharp, but they're never terrible either.

In the center of the frame, this lens really shines. Whether you're at 14mm, 30mm, or somewhere in between, you can expect superb sharpness in the middle, particularly at f/5.6 and f/4. Get more details on the optics of this lens in the video above by The Art of Photography.

Vignetting is fairly significant especially at 14mm, but nothing so bad that it can't be easily corrected in post-processing. Vignetting is present as you zoom in as well, but between 16mm and 30mm, the vignetting is noticeably reduced.

This is true even when using a filter on the lens. So long as the filter has a slim housing, you won't notice any increase in vignetting.

Distortion is high at 14mm - very high, in fact. Distortion is also present at longer focal lengths. But since Adobe has a built-in profile for this lens, you'll likely never see all that distortion.

The issue with this is that Adobe corrects for the distortion by stretching the pixels in the corners of the photo, which makes the corners - which are already not as sharp - even less sharp.

However, for me, this isn't a huge crisis. Yes, the corners are less sharp, but not so much that I would get rid of this lens and never shoot with it again!

nikon 14 30mm f4 s specs

From a focusing standpoint, it's hard not to be impressed with this lens's autofocus. It's both fast and virtually silent, and gives you accurate results as well.

In fact, the precision with which it works in Live View and in the viewfinder is quite impressive.

For close-ups, the lens will get you a maximum magnification of 1:6.25 at 30mm, which is good enough to fill the frame on the horizontal axis with a subject that's about 8-10 inches in size.

That's not going to knock anyone's socks off, but this lens was never intended to be used for close-up or macro work anyway.

And while the AF-P motor in the lens makes manual focusing not as easy as it could be, you can still use manual focus and get clear, pinpoint sharpness.

Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Price

nikon 14 30mm f4 s price

At $1,296.95, this is not exactly a cheap lens, but it's not the most expensive lens in the world either.

As I mentioned earlier, when you first pick up this lens and realize how lightweight it is and how much of it is plastic, you can't help but wonder if it's worth the $1,300 price tag.

But as I've explained above, while this isn't a perfect lens, it's a darn good one - a great one, in fact.

I primarily shoot landscapes, and I've been totally impressed with its handling, build quality, features, and performance in the field thus far.

I picked up this lens from my buddies at Samy's Camera, and they told me that it would be a good fit for my workflow, and they were right.

After a decade of being their customer, they know me, the type of work I do, and what will and won't work for me, and that's worth its weight in gold!

If you shoot with a Nikon Z6 or Z7, and you want to pick up this lens or another S-series lens, do yourself a favor and hit up Samy's for a great deal and excellent service before, during, and after the sale!

We Recommend

Samys Camera Review

Written by PT Editor on 26 November 2019.

samys camera

^{Photo by Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash}

Samy is the kind of guy who is so passionate he would do his work for free. I've known Samy for 10 years now, and he is the kindest, gentlest soul in the photography space.

In a world that is seemingly more and more competitive, sitting down and talking shop with Samy is incredibly refreshing. He can talk about photography for hours.

Samy's Camera has about 5 or 6 locations. I've been to two of these locations and the visits are always extraordinary. The entire staff not only cares to help you with your photography problems, but they make you feel like part of the team.

Without further Ado, let's get to the Samy's Camera review!

Samy's Camera Review

samys camera 2

The reason you feel immediately welcomed into a Samy's Camera is that many of Samy's employees have been with the company for 4 decades.

Those same employees then turned around and brought in their own family members to work at the store. Samy, who opened Samy's Camera back in the late 1970s, treats his photography store, and his clients, with old-school manners, while constantly rotating the newest technology.

Samy actually left his own family's photography business because he wanted to bring newer technology to his town. Now, he's bringing the latest camera gear to 6 towns.

Samy's Camera Gear

As the name suggests, Samy's Camerafeatures plenty of cameras, ranging from DSLRs to antique film cameras and everything in between.

samys camera gear

Samy's Camera is also known for having a beautiful, strange collection of cult classic cameras, like the Holga 120N medium-format, while not shying away from something you could pick up as a Christmas gift for your teenage daughter (Fujifilm Instax Mini, anyone?).

Essentially, Samy's Camera dominates the market by featuring the widest range of cameras for the widest range of customers.

If you're a professional photographer, you can find top-of-the-line mirrorless cameras and DSLRs, but you can also find goofy single-use cameras for your company's White Elephant.

weird cameras

For example, this $4,700 Leica M-A Rangefinder is directly next to this $10 Ilford single-use on Samy's Camera explore page.

black friday cameras

This down-to-earth attitude towards photography is something I haven't found lately, as the industry leans more into pretention.

Plus, Samy's Camera doesn't just carry avant-garde cameras, it also carries avant-garde equipment. You can purchase your drones, your security cameras, your studio lighting, and your books on photography at Samy's.

Basically, if the equipment could conceivably be used in your photography business, Samy's carries it. It's just one reason why my Samy's Camera review is so favorable.

Samy's Camera Used Cameras

used camera store near me

^{Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash}

Since it wasn't enough for Samy to carry every conceivable piece of new camera gear, he also made sure his website features up-to-date used cameras.

The used camera market has been exploding in the last decade because new cameras have become so expensive, but that means a lot of pretty crappy used camera stores have been popping up all over the place.

Samy's Camera hasn't been one of the best camera stores in L.A. for decades by taking anyone's boring used equipment. One quick look at the used cameras section of Samy's website will prove to you Samy's Camera only takes the best.

In fact, there's an extremely rare Leica M9 Titanium Rangefinder 35mm on there I'm thinking about mortgaging my house for.

But again, don't let some of the more expensive equipment turn you off, because Samy's Camera does it all.

Samy's Camera Printing Lab

samys camera review

^{Photo by Squared.one on Unsplash}

Samy's Camera also has an in-house printing lab that can process your passport photos, restore old family portraits, and print directly from your iPhone.

You can order standard photo prints in all sizes, but you can also get your professional-grade prints completed here.

Plus, Samy's Camera is doing a 35% off Christmas cards deal right now.

Samy's Camera Classes Review

samys camera los angeles

Samy's Camera has an entirely separate website, Samy's Photo School, where the company hosts all of its classes. These classes range from seasonal activities like learning how to shoot zoo lights, to business acumen classes that teach you how to run a part-time photography business.

Samy's Camera classes focus on teaching photographers how to better learn their own photography equipment, how to channel their creativity, and how to exist as a business professional in the photography industry.

And, unlike many other photography schools, Samy's Camera is hosting a class almost every single day. Plus, you can join an introductory class for free with the purchase of any camera.

With that, you have my personal Samy's Camera review based on years and years of experience working with the Samy's team.

We Recommend

Selecting the Right Camera for Shooting Video

Written by PT Editor on 31 December 2019.

Selecting the Right Camera for Shooting Video

^{Photo by Jakub Gorajek on Unsplash}

The first time I picked out a camera for shooting video I had no idea what I was looking for. Most cameras aren’t marketed for videographers, which means there’s much less information out there for us.

While I appreciate the many ways a camera can be used for still photos, sometimes I’d like to know more about a camera’s video capabilities than what it can do for stills.

Plus, it seems the most expensive cameras are always marketed for videographers, which means if I’m in the market for a budget camera for shooting video, there’s truly no info out there.

As such, I’ve compiled a list of a wide range of the best cameras for vlogging, from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

Panasonic Lumix G7 (Best Inexpensive Option)

panasonic 1

The Panasonic Lumix G7 is 4 years old, which means its price has significantly decreased to where it now sits (less than $500), but it isn’t yet so out-of-date that it isn’t extremely useful.

The Lumix G7 features a 3” touchscreen that is fully articulated for those of us who aren’t just vlogging behind a computer desk. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and an external microphone port.

The Lumix G7 can also be controlled remotely with your smartphone, which is helpful for one-man video operations. This is truly why it is one of the best cameras for vlogging on the market, even 4 years after it dropped.

Of course, it can’t shoot 4K video due to its age and price point, but it still features a high video bit rate of 100mbps.

Plus, while it’s a great beginner camera, it can also function for those of us who are more advanced in our careers, i.e. it isn’t frustrating for a seasoned pro.

panasonic 2

Pros of Panasonic Lumix G7:

3840 x 2160 video resolution
3” fully articulated screen
Lightweight at less than 1 lb
Built-in Wi-Fi

Cons of Panasonic Lumix G7:

Can’t shoot 4K video
No image stabilization
Short battery life (especially with video)

You can buy a Panasonic Lumix G7 for only $450 here.

Sony A7 III (Best Advanced Camera)

sony 1

If you’re in the market for mirrorless cameras for video, then look no further.

The Sony A7 III is a full frame mirrorless with in-body image stabilization. But, most importantly, it features 4K video capabilities, a microphone jack, Real Time Eye Autofocus (for vloggers), and it stores video clips of up to 29 minutes.

Beyond that, you can choose from two different 4K bitrates (24p and 30p) at either 100MBPS or 60MBPS, S-Log includes, and excellent ISO performance. Plus, the full frame sensor is a huge bonus at this price point, so you don’t have to worry about that pesky crop for video like other cameras in this price range have.

sony 2

Pros of Sony A7 III:

4K video
Microphone/headphone inputs
Large battery life
In-body image stabilization

Cons of Sony A7 III:

3” screen isn’t fully articulated and has limited touchscreen capabilities
Not weather-resistant

You can purchase the Sony A7 III on Samys Camera for $1,800.

Learn More:

GoPro HERO 8 Black (Best Rugged Option)

gopro 1

We all know what this camera for shooting video is known for - image stabilization.

But, the latest GoPro edition has a surprising amount of features, including 4K video capabilities, accessories called “Mods,” which include a mini shotgun microphone connection, a selfie-screen, and a video light connection, and an incredibly easy-to-use interface.

It’s clear to see that GoPro can now be used as an all-around camera for shooting video, instead of being forced into the action niche as it was for so long.

gopro 2

Pros of GoPro HERO 8:

4K video capabilities at up to 60fps
Incredible image stabilization
One of the best vlogging cameras due to new selfie-screen

Cons of GoPro HERO 8:

Not for still photographers
Can’t perform well in low-light situations

You can get a GoPro HERO 8 BlacK for just $350 on Samys Camera, and the best part is it’s a GoPro kit which includes a tripod, a head strap for insane outdoor activities (skydiving, anyone?), and an extra battery!

If this informs you of anything, it’s that there are plenty of options - and varied ones at that - for investing in a high-quality camera for shooting video without busting your budget.

Whether you’re on a strict budget, want an affordable full fram option, or need something rugged to take with you on your adventures, any one of these cameras can fulfill your needs while keeping more money in your bank account.

What’s not to like about that?!

Learn More:

No Matter the Camera, You Need a Great Light...

We Recommend

Sony a6100 First Look

Written by PT Editor on 09 September 2019.

sony a6100 first look

Sony a6100 Camera

It’s hard to believe the Sony a6000 is already five years old. Time flies!

But in camera years, the Sony a6000 - despite being a fantastic camera - is ancient. A refresh was needed, and that’s exactly what Sony has delivered with the new a6100.

Announced at the end of August with expected shipping in October, the a6100 fits nicely in Sony’s lineup as a “souped-up” entry-level camera. It has a great price point of under $750 (body only), especially considering the suite of features you get at that price.

Let’s take a deeper look at the Sony a6100 and see why it’s such an exciting little camera.

Sony a6100 Specs

sony a6100 specs

The folks at Sony made sure that their entry-level E-mount camera was modernized to be attractive to today’s shooters. Get a load of its primary specs:

24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
BIONZ X image processor
425-point hybrid autofocus system
3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with 921.6K dots of resolution
1.44-million-dot electronic viewfinder
ISO range of 100-32000 (expandable to 51200)
11 fps continuous shooting
4K video
Built-in wireless and Bluetooth

Of course, the best feature on that list is the autofocus system.

Having won wide acclaim on other Sony models (like the a6400), the Real-Time Eye AF system can accurately track subjects’ faces and eyes. This is true even at 11 fps.

As you might imagine, that makes shooting video with this camera a dream, particularly when you take into account that the camera has a microphone input and a tilting LCD.

Have a look at Real-Time Eye AF in action in the video above by DPReview.

Sony a6100 Sensor

sony a6100 sensor

The a6100 features a 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which is the same resolution as the sensor in the a6000.

However, it’s not the same sensor - the a6100 inherited the updated sensor from the Sony a6300 that brings a larger (and more dense) autofocus array to the table.

Likewise, the sensor supports the aforementioned Real-Time Eye AF with burst shooting at 11 fps with autofocus or 8 fps when shooting in live view.

This sensor also has improved color processing over what the a6000’s sensor was capable of achieving, in addition to 4K video at 24p, 25p, or 30p and 1080 at 120p for slow-motion video.

Sony a6100 Build & Design

sony a6100 build design 1

True to form, the Sony a6100 has retained the classic small-body look and feel of its predecessors.

The body weighs only .87 pounds (without a lens) and is 4.72 x 2.64 x 2.32″ in size, making it a great choice for travel photographers, street photographers, and casual photographers that want a small camera, yet a highly capable one at the same time.

The build quality is typical Sony. The camera feels good in your hand, and though it’s a small camera, the grip is nice and large (comparatively, anyway) that makes you feel confident that you’ve got a good, solid grip on it.

There is no weather sealing, so taking it out in the elements must be done with care. But, nonetheless, the camera feels well built, as you’d expect.

sony a6100 build design 2

From a design standpoint, the camera is virtually the same as the a6000.

The a6100 has the same controls, the same single memory card slot, and the same-sized LCD, though the a6100’s LCD tilts from 74 degrees to 180 degrees (the a6000’s only tilted up to 90 degrees).

As noted above, the a6100 has also added a mic input, which the Sony a6000 lacked, and it has also added a Micro USB port and a Micro HDMI port too.

Unfortunately, the a6100 retains the same electronic viewfinder from the a6000, so there was room for improvement there and Sony missed the mark.

Sony a6100 vs Sony a6000

sony a6100 vs sony a6000

^{Sony a6100}

As noted above, there are many similarities between the Sony a6100 and the Sony a6000, so that might beg the question, is it worth paying more for the a6100?

The answer to that is “it depends.”

On the one hand, the Sony a6000 is a great camera, even five years after its release. And given its age, you can pick one up on the cheap ($448 for a brand-new body), so there’s the financial benefits as well.

sony a6100 vs sony a6000 2

^{Sony a6000}

Sure, the a6000 doesn’t have a touchscreen or Sony’s incredible Real-Time Eye AF system. It has far fewer autofocus points, no microphone port, and worse battery life.

However, it’s still a 24-megapixel camera with 179 autofocus points, a tilting LCD, an ISO range up to 25600, 11 fps burst shooting, and a 1.44-million-dot electronic viewfinder.

If you don’t shoot video or action stills, the a6000 can likely fulfill your every photography need. That’s particularly true for beginner photographers that want something more than a point-and-shoot.

That said, the a6100 is still a significant improvement, and for many photographers, is well worth the added $300 to the price tag.

For my money, the Real-Time Eye AF is worth the extra money on its own, so the 4K video, improved sensor, Bluetooth, better LCD, and other goodies discussed earlier are simply icing on the cake.

If you shoot video, the a6100 is definitely the better bet (unless you spring for the a6400, which has S-log profiles for grading). See a comparison of the a6100 and a6400 in the video above by Ditch Auto.

sony a6100 vs sony a6000 3

^{Sony a6100 with Sony 55-210mm lens}

At the end of the day, the a6100 represents a good upgrade over the a6000 and fits nicely into Sony’s current lineup. It has some higher-end features from models like the a6400 and even the a9, but with a price tag that many people can afford.

We’ll have an in-depth Sony a6100 review in the coming weeks, but in the meantime, you can check out the complete specs and pricing by clicking the links to my favorite camera store, Samy’s, below. In fact, I bought my Sony a6300 from Samy’s back in 2016 (and have since bought numerous cameras and lenses from them...highly recommended!).

Learn more about Metal Mouth Prints

We Recommend

The Best of 2021

Written by PT Editor on 21 December 2021.

best of 2021

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

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

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

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

Let's get to the list!

Metal Mouth Prints

metal mouth prints best of 2021

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

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

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

metal mouth prints ezi mount

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

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

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

metal mouth prints

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

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

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

Holdfast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Holdfast

Best Ever Backdrops

best ever backdrops example

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

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

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

best ever backdrops

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

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

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

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

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

best ever backdrops best of 2021

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

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

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

Learn more about Best Ever Backdrops

PGYTech MantisPod Pro

mantispod pro best photography gear of 2021

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

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

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

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

pgytech mantispod pro

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

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

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

Learn more about PGYTech MantisPod Pro

Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

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

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

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

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

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

This case certainly does the job...

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

f-Stop Tilopa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa

CanvasHQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about CanvasHQ

Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

canon rf 50mm

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

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

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

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

canon rf 50mm best of 2021

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

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

Learn more about the Canon 50mm f/1.8

GoPro Hero 10 Black

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

The GoPro Hero 10 Black is no exception...

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

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

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

Learn more about the GoPro Hero 10 Black

Apple Macbook Pro M1 Max

macbook pro m1 max

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

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

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

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

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

macbook pro m1 max

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the Apple Macbook Pro M1 Max

We Recommend

The Canon EOS M200 is the Perfect Upgrade for Smartphone Photographers

Written by PT Editor on 02 October 2019.

canon eos m200

Canon M200

The new Canon mirrorless camera, the Canon EOS M200, is the only camera you should be looking at if you’re looking to upgrade from your iPhone or Android.

Cheap Canon mirrorless cameras are few and far between like the Canon M50, which is why this one is so exciting.

It functions better than any smartphone’s camera on the market today and isn’t much bigger than those smartphones either. So, let’s take an in-depth look at the Canon EOS M200.

Canon EOS M200 vs. M100 Comparison

canon eos m200 vs m100 comparison

Most media refers to the Canon EOS M200 as a “modest” update to Canon’s original M100.

While this may be true in terms of the body of the Canon EOS M200, the upgrades to camera functionality are anything but modest.

In terms of the differences in the bodies: the Canon EOS M200 is a tiny bit lighter (just 3-4 grams) than the M100.

The Canon M200 also comes with a built-in flash and a 180-degree flipping screen for those selfies.

The Canon EOS M200 also includes a faux-leather grip, which I think looks classier than the plastic body of the M100.

The Canon EOS M200 also features a diamond texture on the lens barrel that makes it much easier to refine the focus as needed.

It seems the Canon EOS M200 is finally jumping on the all-white labeling bandwagon as well. Whereas the Canon EOS M100 featured some green and red buttons, the M200 upgraded to something a bit more aesthetically pleasing.

Canon EOS M200 Performance

canon eos m200 performance

In terms of small mirrorless cameras currently on the market, the Canon EOS M200 blows everything else out of the water.

The M200 comes with a Digic 8 processor - Canon’s latest powerhouse chip - and while the pixel count between the two versions haven’t changed, this new processor allows the camera to take 4K video.

canon eos m200 performance 2

Where the previous version of this Canon mirrorless camera had a measly 49 autofocus points, the Canon M200 comes with a whopping 123 AF points

And on top of the better AF, the Canon M200 also includes better metering for low light shooting. For still shots, the Canon M100 could only meter down to 1EV, whereas the Canon M200 can meter to -1EV for stills.

Metering also works better for video. The new version can meter to 0EV for videos.

I love me some eye-detection autofocus and this Canon M200 finally features it.

Finally, the auto white balance mode now includes two choices: ambient-priority or white-priority.

That’s not a bad set of features to enhance your ability to get better shots!

Canon EOS M200 Introduces New RAW Formats

canon eos m200 shoots 4k

If you haven’t heard of C-Raw images, allow me to explain.

C-Raw images are a compressed raw format that saves an incredible amount of space and improves buffer depths, all while maintaining an almost perfect photo quality.

The Canon M200 got an upgrade in its C-Raw image format. Where the Canon M100 was working with .CR2 raws, the Canon M200 is working with .CR3 raws.

All this means is that you can save more and more images on the memory card, just like a smartphone, without having to transfer files as often.

Canon EOS M200 Shoots 4K

canon eos m200 connectivity

We’ve got in-camera WiFi with the Canon M200 that can be controlled from your smartphone, which is fun. This way, you can post all of your photos and videos online just as easily as you could have from your iPhone.

This camera also comes with a Type-D Micro HDMI connector, plus a Micro-B connector for connecting to a computer.

Canon EOS M200 Pricing

canon eos m200 pricing

The Canon EOS M200 is set to drop on Halloween and it’s incredibly cheap at $500.

As I already discussed, it also far surpasses the cameras on the newest iPhone or Androids.

You can buy the white version here or the black version here and have it in time for the holidays, and all the craziness that comes with this time of year for photographers.

We Recommend

The Fujifilm X-A7 Might Be the Perfect Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera

Written by PT Editor on 17 September 2019.

fujifilm x a7 release date

Fujifilm’s X-A series has won wide acclaim from many in the industry as being highly capable entry-level cameras with a great price tag.

It appears as though the X-A7 continues that tradition with a rich set of features, a number of significant improvements over its predecessor, the X-A5, and a bargain-basement price of just $700.

Taking all these things into account, it might be the perfect entry-level mirrorless camera for beginners.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the primary features and specs of this hot new camera.

Fujifilm X-A7 Specs
Fujifilm X-A7 Build and Handling
Fujifilm X-A7 Lenses
Fujifilm X-A7 Price

Fujifilm X-A7 Specs

fujifilm x a7 specs

As an entry-level camera, the X-A7 isn’t going to blow your mind with specs on the level of the new Sony a7R IV.

However, for an entry-level camera, you get quite a lot of goodies:

24.5-megapixel sensor
ISO range of 200-128000
6 fps burst shooting
4K video at 30p
3.5-inch articulating touchscreen LCD
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

fujifilm x a7 specs 2

There are a couple of things of note about the specs above.

First, this camera has an all-new sensor, and though it offers the same resolution as the one found in the X-A5, improvements to this sensor (like copper wiring) will improve the camera’s speed and its ability to record video in 4K.

Secondly, this new sensor has more than eight times the number of phase-detection pixels as the X-A5, bringing the total autofocus points to 425. That is an impressive number for an entry-level camera, and with all those AF points, autofocus performance should be much-improved.

fujifilm x a7 specs 3

Yet another thing to note here is the enormous LCD on this camera.

This is not a large camera by any stretch (More on that later), so having an LCD that’s 3.5-inches wide is quite the accomplishment (though, since the camera has no viewfinder, there’s more room for a big LCD). What’s more, the screen has a robust 2.75-million dots of resolution, which is greater than many professional cameras offer.

Not only is the screen articulating and touch-enabled, but it’s in 16:9 format. While this means there will be black bars on either side of still photos (which are taken in 3:2 aspect ratio), it’s ideal for shooting video. Combined with the 4K video at 30p, it should make for a very nice combination for beginner videographers.

Learn More:

Fujifilm X-A7 Build and Handling

fujifilm x a7 build

A lot of new photographers that want to upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera or their phone to a “real” camera often want something small and lightweight, and the X-A7 certainly delivers on that front.

By itself, the camera weighs barely more than 11 ounces, and with the kit lens attached (the XC 15mm-45mm F/3.5-5.6), the whole thing weighs right at about one pound. If you want a highly portable camera, this is it!

Likewise, the X-A7 measures 4.69 x 2.67 x 1.62" so it can easily be stored in a pocket or purse.

fujifilm x a7 build 2

Of course, being such a small camera means that it can be a little challenging to handle for large-handed adults (and many people with regular-sized hands, too).

As you can see above, the “grip” isn’t exactly beefy, but then again, this isn’t intended to be a camera that professionals use for an eight-hour wedding shoot. See how the camera handles in the video below by the Fuji Guys Channel:

On one side of the camera is a microphone jack, which is great for video work, though it’s a 2.5mm jack, so you’ll have to use the included adapter to step up to the normal 3.5mm size.

On the other side of the camera are multiple ports, including a micro-HDMI and a USB-C, the latter of which can be used to both charge the camera and transfer files (at USB 2.0 speeds, unfortunately).

fujifilm x a7 build 3

The new joystick on the back of this camera has eight-way functionality and is used to work through the camera’s menu system. It’s also used to move the autofocus point.

On the top of the camera is a front control dial, a rear control dial (with a customizable function button inside it), a mode dial, a recessed on/off button, and a hot-shoe mount.

The bottom of the camera features the battery door where the NP-W126S battery is housed (the memory card slot is located next to the battery as well).

For such a small camera, it has great battery life of around 440 shots.

Buy New X-A7

Fujifilm X-A7 Lenses

fujifilm x a7 lenses 2

Packaged with the X-A7 is a respectable kit lens in the form of the Fujinon XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ.

With the 1.5 crop factor, the lens has an effective focal length of 23-69mm, so you can range from wide-angle to near-telephoto shots with a single lens, and do so with smooth, electronic zoom control to get precise focusing.

fujifilm x a7 lenses

The lens also has optical image stabilization so you can shoot at slower shutter speeds while keeping camera shake at bay (within reason, of course...it offers three stops of stabilization).

Additionally, this lens gets high marks for its sharpness and clarity, thanks to the aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements used in its construction. Add to that a Super EBC coating that reduces ghosting and flare while boosting color accuracy and contrast, and you have the makings of a very nice kit lens for the X-A7.

Of course, being an X-mount camera, you can utilize any X-mount lens with it.

Learn More:

Fujifilm X-A7 Price

fujifilm x a7 price

As noted in the introduction, the Fujifilm X-A7 price is just $700, which is a great price, especially considering that the kit lens sells for $300 on its own.

The camera is currently on pre-order and comes in a variety of colors, including mint green, dark silver, and camel. Shipments are expected to commence on October 31, 2019.

If you’re ready to jump on the X-A7 bandwagon, you can pre-order yours at Samy’s Camera today.

I’ve been a customer of Samy’s for years and years and can’t give them enough praise for their selection of gear, their customer service, and their dedication to making sure I have what I need, when I need it. If you want the best gear at the best prices, I can’t recommend Samy’s Camera enough!

Learn more about Best Ever Backdrops

We Recommend

Top 10 Last-Minute Gifts for Photographers - 2021 Edition

Written by PT Editor on 13 December 2021.

Best Ever Backdrops Last Minute Gift Guide Module

^{photo byVitaliy_ph via iStock}

With just a few days left until Christmas, it's officially time to get your last-minute shopping done.

To help you find the perfect gift for the photographer on your list, we've put together this last-minute gift guide for photographers.

With items of all shapes, sizes, types, and prices, there's something on this list for the photographer in your life!

Best Ever Backdrops Mix and Match Backdrop

Best Ever Backdrops 1

As a photographer, I want to get gifts that improve my ability to take photos. And as a photographer with a lot of gear, I also want something that I can tuck away into a drawer here or a cubby there to keep it out of the way.

I want to receive a gift that also has a lot of utility - something that’s easy to use, offers flexibility in terms of how it's used, and something that will last a long time. And that, my friends, is exactly what you get with a backdrop from Best Ever Backdrops.

Best Ever Backdrops 2

Now, I’m a landscape photographer by trade, but I also love to cook. So I thought, why not give food photography a try?

To create images of food that really make people’s mouths water, I need to set up a home studio that allows me to get the perfect shots. And for that I need a good backdrop.

What I really love about these backdrops is that they tick all the boxes - they look incredible, they’re double-sided to give you two backdrops in one, and they are just 24 x 36 inches and 1/8th of an inch thick, so they’re easy to shove under my bed when I’m not using them.

Additionally, these backdrops are extremely durable, waterproof, and stainproof, so if my food photography shoots get a little out of hand, I don’t have to worry about ruining my backdrops.

Best Ever Backdrops 3

Better still, there are dozens and dozens of colors, textures, and patterns to choose from, so you can truly tailor the backdrop to what you think the photographer on your shopping list would like. There’s even free shipping!

Since this is a last-minute gift guide, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that these backdrops arrive at your door in just a couple of days, so they truly are an ideal last-minute gift.

It’s hard to beat something that’s so useful, so beautiful, and at the end of the day, inexpensive, too. If you want to wow the photographer on your holiday list, this is the gift to do it!

Sony a7 IV

The Sony a7 IV is the newest version of the a7 line - so new, in fact, that it’s still in the pre-order phase.

However, any photographer on your holiday shopping list would surely love to have this camera, even if they have to wait a while to get it.

The a7 IV is equipped with a full frame 33-megapixel Exmor R back-illuminated sensor that offers incredible image quality, including better color reproduction and low noise.

Additionally, the sensor is capable of accommodating more than 15 stops of dynamic range, which offers photographers the ability to capture a wide range of highlights and details in the scene.

Sony a7 IV 2

The Sony a7 IV isn’t just a photographer’s camera, though…

The fast sensor readout enables 10-bit 4:2:2 4K video recording at up to 60p. Likewise, you get full pixel readout with no binning, the option to edit footage in slow-motion at 30p or 24p, and oversampling at 7K

Of course, that’s just the start! The a7 IV offers a host of other features that includes a 3-inch free-angle tilting touchscreen LCD, an OLED EVF, up to 10fps burst shooting, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5-axis image stabilization.

In other words, this camera is loaded up with goodies that will make your favorite photographer smile from ear to ear!

Learn more about the Sony a7 IV

Atomos Ninja V

atomos 2

If you're shopping for a photographer that wants to try their hand at audio and video production, the 5-inch Atomos Ninja V portable monitor/recorder is a great gift idea.

The Ninja V is compatible with virtually any DSLR or mirrorless camera. Recording is done directly from the camera's sensor, but because it bypasses the camera's internal compression and record time limits, the Ninja V allows you to record for as long as you want. You get 4K 60p 10-bit recording out of the deal, too.

Files from the Ninja V are in ProRes or DNxHR format, which are ready to edit and can be easily stored on an SSD drive.

atomos ninja v last minute gifts for photographers

The monitor on the Ninja V is a bright 5.2-inch 10-bit HDR screen that offers 1,000 nits of brightness. The unit is wrapped in a 1-inch aluminum body that's both durable and lightweight.

Additionally, the screen is anti-reflective and offers 10+ stops of dynamic range in real-time from various signals, including Log, PQ, and HLG.

You get one-touch operation, fast playback, slow motion, and frame-by-frame analysis with AtomOS as well!

Learn more about the Atomos Ninja V

Sony ZV-1

sony zv 1

The Sony ZV-1 is a compact, 4K camera aimed specifically at vloggers.

It has a 20.1MP sensor, a vari-angle LCD screen that faces forward, and a three-capsule mic with a windscreen as well.

These features make it much easier for videographers to see themselves as they record and capture improved audio as they do it.

But the list of features doesn't stop there...

sony zv 1 2

The camera is compatible with Bluetooth grips that enable easy handheld shooting. There is also a bokeh switch and a product showcase setting that make it easier to defocus the background and highlight products that need to be singled out in a video.

The ZV-1 also comes with a 2.7x optical zoom, enhanced color science for improved skin tones, and real-time tracking that ensures the subject is always in focus.

In other words, if the photographer on your list is ready to get into shooting video, this might be the camera for them!

Learn more about the Sony ZV-1

Westcott FJ400 400Ws Strobe with AC/DC Battery

WESTCOTT FJ400 400WS STROBE

If the photographer you’re shopping for needs to upgrade or expand their lighting gear, this Westcott 400Ws strobe will be an ideal solution.

This light comes with an AC/DC battery, making it highly portable for use in the studio or in the field. The AC/DC battery offers 480+ full-power flashes with each charge, so photographers get long-lasting use out of it. And with less than a second recycle speed, work can commence quickly!

The FJ400 offers superb color accuracy, has a 9-stop output range, and a stable color temperature of 5500K (+/-150K). There’s an easy-to-use menu system with an LCD color display for making quick adjustments in addition to having both manual and TTL flash modes.

WESTCOTT FJ400 400WS STROBE 2

Westcott incorporated other nice features into this light as well. It offers High Speed Sync (HSS) at up to 1/8000s, Freeze Sync up to 1/19000s, Continuous Capture at up to 20fps, and automatic memory recall.

Add to the list mask function, delay function, rear curtain sync, and group and channel assignment, too!

Even better, this light is firmware upgradable via USB-C, so additional features can be added in the future. What’s not to like about that?!

Learn more about the Westcott FJ400 400Ws Strobe with AC/DC Battery

RODE Wireless GO II Microphone

rode wireless go 2

I've used RODE microphones for years, and I can attest to the quality of these mics both in terms of build and audio performance.

The Wireless GO II builds on the success of its predecessor by continuing the tradition of innovation.

It operates in the 2.4GHz spectrum and is compatible with Android and Apple products.

rode wireless go

This kit comes with dual transmitters, each of which have an internal microphone and a receiver with a 3.5mm TRS output.

The transmitter and receiver have a USB-C port for charging. These ports can also be used to connect to a computer to get firmware updates.

With completely wireless operation, these mics give you the freedom to move around in front of the camera without worry of tripping over wires. What's more, if you're on camera, there's no wires to try to hide under your shirt.

These little guys simply give you a lot of bang for your buck with professional-quality audio in a tiny package.

Learn more about the RODE Wireless GO II

Rode Microphones RODECaster Pro Integrated Podcast Production Studio

rodecaster 1

If you're shopping for someone that wants to get into podcasting, then the RODECaster Pro is a great last-minute gift idea.

What's so great about this gadget is that it is fully integrated. That means that photographers can use this to produce podcasts whether they are an experienced podcaster or a beginner.

There are four high-quality microphone channels that can power studio condenser microphones and traditional dynamic microphones as well.

Better still, you can connect microphones to the RODECaster Pro quickly and easily. The device also offers convenient features like one-touch recording and automatic level setting.

rodecaster 2

The RODECaster Pro also allows you to have remote guests call in for an interview. Doing so is easy - just connect a smartphone via Bluetooth or a TRRS cable and the RODECaster will automatically provide mix-minus audio so the caller doesn't hear an echo.

This unit additionally provides preamps and outputs with Class A circuitry for ultra-low distortion and top-of-the-line gain structure.

There's music, jingles, applause, and other sounds that help give your podcast a more professional sound as well!

Learn more about the RODECaster Pro

RODE Lavalier GO

rode lavalier go last minute gifts for photographers

Another prime last-minute gift idea for photographers is the RODE Lavalier GO microphone.

At just $79, this is one of the least expensive items on this list. But don't let the small price fool you - this is a high-powered mic!

In fact, this is a professional-grade microphone that can be used in a variety of situations, from speaking directly to the camera in the studio to conducting interviews in the field and many points in between.

The Lavalier GO has a discreet 4.5mm omnidirectional mic that captures beautifully clear audio - even in less-than-forgiving environments.

It has a 3.5mm TRS connector and is designed to work with the RODE Wireless GO and many recording devices with a 3.5mm TRS microphone input.

The key to getting good video is capturing great audio, and with this microphone, the photographer on your shopping list can do just that!

Learn more about the RODE Lavalier GO

Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

manfrotto tough 55

Chances are that the photographer on your holiday shopping list already has a ton of gear. So why not give them a gift that helps them carry that gear safely?

The Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55 roller case has four layers of foam on the bottom and convoluted foam on the lid to help protect sensitive photography and videography gear from bumps and bruises when traveling.

When closed, the case creates an airtight compartment. With pull release latches, the case is easy to open, and with padlock compatible points, the case can be easily secured as well. Add in a telescoping handle for making maneuvering the case through the airport a breeze!

manfrotto tough 55 last minute gifts for photographers

One of the most interesting and useful features of this case is that it has optional accessories that can attach or latch onto metal attachment pins on the case.

This means that you can add a laptop bag, a tripod bag, or many other accessories to expand the usefulness of the case.

These cases are dust-resistant and moisture-resistant and are rated to IP67 standards, so they are fully capable of being a photographer's go-to travel case in all sorts of environments.

Learn more about the Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55

Ikan Professional 15-Inch High Bright Beam Splitter Teleprompter

ikan teleprompter 2

One of the best pieces of kit I have in my home studio is this Ikan 15-inch beam splitter teleprompter.

I do a lot of videos where I'm speaking directly to the camera, so a high-quality teleprompter is critical so I can speak naturally to my audience while maintaining eye contact with the camera.

With a large and bright 15-inch screen, the text on the screen is nice and big so I can easily read it from across the room. Now, my home studio is pretty small, so I'm no more than about eight feet away.

ikan teleprompter

However, if you're shopping for someone that has a larger studio, this teleprompter can be set back much further, allowing for placement of additional cameras, lights, and other gear.

The teleprompter itself is about 25 x 20 x 16 inches and weighs about 22 pounds. These figures are just for the teleprompter, so once you add in a camera and lens, a tripod, and so forth, the entire setup is fairly large. That means it's probably more of a studio setup than something you'd want to travel with.

Still, I've been thoroughly impressed with this rig and can't recommend it enough!

Learn more about the Ikan Professional 15-Inch High Bright Beam Splitter Teleprompter

We Recommend

Top 3 Canon RF Lenses You Want

Written by PT Editor on 27 November 2019.

Top 3 Canon RF Lenses You Want

^{Photo by Eriks Abzinovs on Unsplash}

Canon RF Lenses

Those of you that follow my articles on PhotographyTalk know that I recently picked up a Canon EOS R after having used Sony cameras for 6-7 years.

I’m loving this camera so far, and I’m loving the Canon RF lenses with it as well.

The RF line of lenses has greatly expanded over the last year, and now includes the “holy trinity” - the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM, Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM, Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM.

Let’s dive into the details of why these are the three Canon RF lenses you want in your camera bag.

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

As I mentioned in my hands-on review of the RF 15-25mm lens, the build quality is matched only by the image quality it produces.

This is definitely L-series glass, with serious optics, weather sealing, and excellent sharpness throughout its focal range.

I like that it’s smaller than the EF version (though it’s still big!), and the five-stop image stabilization is certainly a bonus.

I also love the 15-35mm focal range. For my landscape photography exploits, it’s the ideal length to capture beautifully wide shots of vast scenes.

On the downside, this is a huge lens, and the sharpness, while superb in the middle, does have a noticeable drop-off toward the edges.

However, the pros certainly outweigh the cons, and professional shooters will be served well having this wide-angle lens in their bag.

Biggest Pro: No discernable distortion
Biggest Con: Enormous price tag
Price: $2,299 at Samy’s Camera

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM

canon 24 70mm 1

Of course, no ultimate Canon RF lens kit would be complete without the uber-versatile 24-70mm f/2.8L. For many professional shooters, this focal range is the most important, so this lens represents a must-have.

Naturally, the L-series glass is a huge bonus as is the large, bright f/2.8 aperture.

Like its 15-35mm counterpart, this lens is supremely sharp in the middle with some fall off toward the edges, and, also like its counterpart, it offers 5 stops of image stabilization.

canon 24 70 2

This lens is beautifully fast, thanks in part to the inclusion of Canon’s Nano USM motor, which does a masterful job of moving around the huge glass elements inside the lens. The motor is fast, precise, and Ninja quiet. That’s a huge bonus for you video shooters out there.

In fact, this lens is a dream for video work. The Dual Pixel AF system on the EOS R combined with the image stabilization, quiet USM motor, and the complete lack of focus breathing make it an ideal rig for shooting video.

Of course, this isn’t a perfect lens…

The price, like with the 15-35mm f/2.8, is quite large, and will prohibit many EOS R shooters from investing in it.

And that huge price tag makes the just-average edge sharpness a bitter pill to swallow. If you plunk down this kind of money, you expect better results around the perimeter of the image.

Nevertheless, this is still a fantastic lens that should probably be the first RF lens purchase you make. Get more details about this lens in the video above by David Lopez.

Biggest Pro: Zero focus breathing
Biggest Con: Average sharpness around the edges
Price: $2,299 at Samy’s Camera

Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM

canon 70 200 1

The final component of the top three canon RF lenses you want is, unsurprisingly, the RF 70-200mm f/2.8.

This is the newest member to the RF lens family, and also one of the most expensive at a whopping $2,700.

But, as we all know, you have to pay to play to get the best glass, and this bad boy definitely ticks all the boxes of a badass lens.

canon 70 200 2

Sure, the fact that the lens extends as you zoom has caused a lot of debate and consternation, but for a zoom lens, this thing is surprisingly lightweight, and that alone makes up for the difference in handling (for me, anyway).

The length of the lens when it is not zoomed out is also excellently short, making it a much easier fit into your camera bag.

More so than in the other two lenses on this list, the five-stop image stabilization system rocks it out. The image quality is also impeccable, even when you slam the aperture open to f/2.8.

canon 70 200 3

The price, though, is a huge hurdle for a lot of photographers - even professionals. And since many professionals are used to zoom lenses that don’t extend upon zooming, I can see a lot of folks skipping this lens simply due to the weird ergonomics of the base of the lens having a huge circumference and the tip of the lens being much smaller when extended.

But if you want the holy trinity of f/2.8 lenses, you’ll have to overlook some minor issues and focus on the many, many advantages of this lens.

Biggest Pro: Zero focus breathing
Biggest Con: Average sharpness around the edges
Price: $2,699 at Samy’s Camera

We Recommend

Videography 101

Written by PT Editor on 15 January 2020.

Videography 101

^{photo byB4LLS via iStock}

Making movies has never been as accessible for aspiring filmmakers as it is currently. Movie making today often involves videography.

In fact, more and more still photographers are using their camera’s video features too. Though you may be an absolute expert in still imaging, there may be some videography basics you need to learn.

Principles of Videography

One of the first things to get used to when shooting videos is how motion changes everything. It changes the way you hold or support your camera, it changes the way you think about the final result, and it changes what you consider to be high quality.

Video Resolution

videography basics 1

^{photo byisil terzioglu via iStock}

Still digital photographers are used to measuring potential image quality by looking at the sensor resolution of the sensor and what type of file is being used. So, we know a 24.1MP sensor and RAW files will deliver images with higher potential quality than a 6.2MP sensor and Jpegs.

The nature of recording moving images changes resolution requirements. A large part of the reason is the sheer size of video files. So, we consider resolution differently.

A recording meant only to be seen on a mobile device doesn’t need much video resolution. The need for a large screen TV is higher. So, a resolution of 720p is better on a TV than a resolution of 480p.

Higher quality video files with a resolution of 1080p are often referred to as HD or High Definition video. 4K is an even higher resolution, capable of cinematic quality resolution.

Compression

Getting to know about compression is one of the more important videography tips for beginners. Since the videos are so huge, compression is used to shrink file sizes in order to make them more manageable. Conversion programs or editing programs with conversion functions can adjust the files to a smaller size without adversely affecting how it looks when played back.

Learn More:

File Conversion

videography tips for beginners 2

^{photo bysutiporn via iStock}

Many cameras record in a digital format specific for that camera or brand, much like RAW files for still imaging. In order to get a finished video that can be viewed by common devices, the files are converted to standard formats. MP4 is one of the more common formats.

MP4 is also generally a compressed format. So the large video in a specific format is reduced and made viewable by most types of playback devices. If explaining videography for dummies, you could say that MP4 is video’s Jpeg and you would have a pretty good understanding of the relationship.

Aspect Ratios

videography basics

^{photo bygorodenkoff via iStock}

Aspect ratio is how long a frame is versus how high it is. An 8x10 inch print has an aspect ratio of 4:5. A regular TV screen has an aspect ratio of 4:3, with wide screen TVs being 16:9. This makes 16:9 usable cinematically, though there are wider aspect ratios used for commercial theater release.

If you record with a higher resolution, you can change aspect ratios without losing too much video quality.

Video Lighting

Just like with still photography, quality video work requires that you have quality lighting.

But gone are the days of having to set up complicated lighting schemes (and spending tons of money on lighting gear, for that matter).

One of my favorite additions to my video kit is the PilotFly AtomCube RX1 RGBCW LED Video Light shown above and below.

As you can see, it's a tiny little thing that can fit in your pocket. But don't think that because it's small that it doesn't pack a mighty punch...

With a CRI of 95+ and a TLCI of 97, you know you’re getting excellent quality lighting for your project.

There are 12 different lighting options built right into the light, which gives you easy access to tons of adjustments to get the lighting just right for your videos.

I also like that this light's battery lasts a full three hours, so you can keep recording and recording without worry that this little light is going to die on you.

On top of all that, the PilotFly AtomCube RX1 is completely dimmable. You can also adjust color temperature, saturation, and brightness.

It's well built with a durable all-aluminum frame, too. That means you can throw it in your camera bag and not worry about it being too delicate.

The best part is that you can use Bluetooth to connect up to 255 of these things together, all of which can be calibrated for consistent light from one unit to the next.

Add in control via a smartphone app, and you have the makings of an ideal light for your video needs!

Cameras and Lenses

principles of videography 5

^{photo byRowan Jordan via iStock}

We’ve talked about video quality quite a bit when examining resolution, file types, and aspect ratio. Starting with the highest quality will let us end up with videos that can be enjoyed across multiple types of devices.

So, just as in still digital photography, larger sensors and better lenses will enable us to have better results.

principles of videography 7

Digital cameras, either DSLR or mirrorless, in MFT, APS-C, and Full Frame sensors are able to produce excellent video. Large sensors and sharp lenses are a piece of the equation, how a camera handles the digital files is also a vital part. Some large sensor cameras don’t have high quality video modes.

The newest digital cameras, including mirrorless cameras, have excellent video features. The prime lenses available for these new cameras are equally amazing in how good they are.

principles of videography 6

As an example, the Canon EOS R has a 30.3MP sensor and can record 4K video. Prime focal length lenses such as the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 wide angle lens and the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 short telephoto (shown above) are excellent choices for creating superb videos with this camera.

Learn More:

Bokeh

videography for dummies 8

^{Photo by McKinley Law on Unsplash}

Which brings us to another concern in videography basics. In order to maximize viewer enjoyment and involvement when watching the videos, minimizing distractions is very important.

Bokeh, or how out of focus images and spots of light appear, is a lens characteristic familiar to still photographers. Larger sensor cameras with fast primes tend to produce amazing bokeh. So that Canon EOS R with 35mm f/1.8 and 85mm f/1.2 lenses should enable beginner videographers to make great looking videos.

The end result is likely to be a video that can be enjoyed by others, videos that may actually make you some money from satisfied clients.

Video Editing

principles of videography 3

^{Photo by KAL VISUALS on Unsplash}

After the video shoot, it is an almost foregone conclusion that there will need to be editing. A still image may be usable straight out of the camera (but not really), but almost every video file will require some post processing.

From videography basics such as file conversion and compression, to cutting and splicing scenes, editing is a fact of life in videography. A whole article could be made on video editing.

Videography Tips for Beginners

videography for dummies 9

^{Photo by KAL VISUALS on Unsplash}

A lot can be said about high quality equipment, basic videography techniques, and editing after the shoot, but the most important aspect of video is how it differs from and is similar to still photography.

If your camera has a high quality video mode, take advantage of it. You will have loads of enjoyment and it just might turn you into a filmmaker.

Learn More: