If you shoot with a Sony a7 III or Sony a7R III and you're looking for a fantastic all-rounder prime lens, it's hard to argue against the ZEISS Batis 40mm f/2.

The ZEISS Batis line of lenses was specifically designed for use with Sony's full frame cameras in its A7 and A9 series, though they'll work with any Sony E-mount camera.

Since its release, the ZEISS Batis 40mm f/240mm f/2 has won universal acclaim for everything from bokeh to build quality, and I have to agree.

Let's dig deeper into this best lens for Sony E-mount cameras.

ZEISS Batis 40mm f/2 CF Specs

Let's talk first about the specifications of this lens.

As noted above, it was specifically designed for use with Sony full frame cameras.

That being the case, these lenses are small and lightweight, which keeps your overall kit small and lightweight as well. At a scant 3.7 in. x 3.6 in. and just 12.7 oz., it certainly fits the bill for shooters that want to run and gun.

It has a minimum shooting distance of just 24 cm while there's a magnification ratio of 1.3.3.

At f/2, you get a nice, wide aperture for low-light shooting and blurring the background of portraits. It has a minimum aperture of f/22.

The lens is constructed of 9 elements in 8 groups and has a 9 rounded aperture blades that produce pleasing bokeh.

With a viewing angle of 56 degrees, the 40mm f/2 is an ideal compromise between shooting with a 35mm and a 50mm lens.

It has an autofocus system featuring a linear motor, though it also supports manual focus if that's more your style.

There's a handy OLED display that gives you the focus distance and depth of field too.

And with dust and weather sealing, this little guy can stand up to harsh conditions you might find when shooting landscapes.

See the full specs on the Zeiss Batis 40mm f/2 CF lens.

The ZEISS Batis 40mm f/2 CF is the Height of Versatility

As mentioned earlier, the 40mm focal length of this lens falls beautifully between the 35mm and 50mm variants.

At 40mm, you can tackle virtually any photography subject, be that street photography, architecture, portraits, or landscapes.

Given the aforementioned 24cm minimum focusing distance, this lens is a superb choice for close-up photography as well.

Though 40mm might not be one's first choice for a prime lens, the ZEISS Batis proves its worth for photographers that need to work light, whether that's heading out for a day of shooting on the streets or traveling around the globe. Either way, the image quality you get with this lens and a Sony E-mount camera is second-to-none.

ZEISS Batis 40mm f/2 CF Performance

Tests of this lens demonstrate its ability to capture clean, crisp images.

The floating lens design results in excellent image quality at all points throughout the focus range.

With a ZEISS T coating, the lens is able to reduce reflections while the weather and dust sealing I mentioned above protect the lens from the elements. This includes a robust rubber gasket on the back that ensures a tight seal with the camera.

Focusing is both fast and accurate, and with the OLED display on the barrel, you can zero in perfect focus thanks to the distance and depth of field display.

This lens also has a focus limiting switch, which is a great add-on for close-up shots because it prevents the lens from hunting for its focus throughout the focus range.

Get more details about these and other features in the video above by Jason Vong.

Color rendition is of note with this lens as well.

Colors are beautifully vivid, rich, and saturated for images that have a ton of visual appeal.

ZEISS engineers have developed technologies in the Batis line of lenses that reduce stray light, so images taken with this lens have minimal aberrations and enhanced contrast. In fact, chromatic aberration is virtually non-existent.

This lens also produces very little vignetting at full aperture, which is relatively unique amongst ZEISS lenses. Sharpness, as you'd expect with a ZEISS lens, is absolutely superb.

ZEISS Batis 40mm f/2 CF Firmware Update

With the release of the 40mm f/2, some ZEISS users noted that as the lens focused on a close object, the aperture would close down to f/4, even though the lens said it was shooting at f/2.

That reduction in light was not a small problem, and ZEISS was quick to rectify the situation with a firmware update.

According to ZEISS, the firmware update does the following:

"Once you've installed the update, the ZEISS Batis 2/40 CF will only automatically stop down at preset aperture values between f/2 and f/2.5 at a focus distance of between 24 and 65 centimeters - in extreme cases (minimum object distance) to max. f/2.8. With an aperture value of f/2.8 and up, the aperture will remain unchanged across the entire focus range." 

ZEISS Batis 40mm f/2 CF Price

 

At $1,299.00, this isn't a cheap lens, especially for a standard f/2 rig.

That being said, ZEISS has stuffed it with so many advantageous features that the price tag becomes well worth it.

You get a small, lightweight, and easy-to-use lens that's beautifully sharp, produces virtually no errors or aberrations, and is extremely versatile.

The build quality is outstanding, the minute 24cm minimum focusing distance makes it ideal for close-ups, and its autofocus system is fast and accurate.

What more could you want from a lens?!

Get the Zeiss Batis 40mm f/2 CF lens.

---

 ^{photo bykrystiannawrocki via iStock}

The holidays are getting ever closer. That means we all need to get on our game and start making shopping lists for our loved ones.

But if you ask me, photographers are one of the toughest groups of people to satisfy. Many of us are picky and if you aren’t a photographer yourself, you might not know what the best gifts for photographers might be.

So before all the Black Friday sales begin to crop up, consult our list of the top gifts for photographers so you know what to keep your eye out for when holiday shopping really begins to get underway.

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: CanvasHQ Prints

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

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

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

Think about it… 

A canvas print is a gift that keeps on giving.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ!

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Holdfast Roamographer 

With a $1,000 holiday budget, you can give the photographer on your list a gift that is impeccably designed, highly functional, and way under budget, too. 

The Holdfast Roamographer bag is one of the finest leather camera bags on the market. It offers gorgeous aesthetics with an American Bison leather exterior that’s beautiful and rugged at the same time.

Not only will this leather stand up to the elements and age with grace, but it’s also weather resistant so you can be sure the contents of the bag remain safe and dry.

It’s a big bag and can carry lots of gear, but carrying it is a breeze with an adjustable shoulder strap with a shearling-lined shoulder pad for comfort.

Or, if you prefer, you can carry the Roamographer using the Holdfast MoneyMaker for even more functionality and comfort, as seen above.

The inside of the bag must be mentioned as well. 

The removable camera insert means that no matter how much or how little gear your favorite photographer needs to carry, the Roamographer will help them keep it organized.

The padded insert has cubbies specifically for cameras, lenses, flashes, and other accessories, while there’s interior and exterior pockets for other goodies like a phone, car keys, and a tablet.

The insert is removable, too, so on weekends when they’re not on the job, the photographer on your list can use this as a weekend bag, too. 

That makes the Holdfast Roamographer a beautiful, functional, and multi-purpose bag!

Learn more about the Holdfast Roamographer

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: iMovR Lander Lite Desk 

 

One of the worst parts of the job as a photographer are the long hours spent sitting at your desk, culling and editing images.

But the photographer on your holiday shopping list needn’t sit in discomfort all day long!

The iMovR Lander Lite Desk is the ideal solution, offering both sit and stand options for workers.

I have the Lander Desk in my office, and I can tell you first-hand that it is one of the best investments I’ve ever made for my work life - it’s that good!

The Lander Lite Desk has all the same crazy-good technology as the Lander Desk, but with “lighter” features and a smaller price tag.

For example, this little beauty has a height control paddle with built-in health coach, just like it’s big brother, the Lander Desk. The paddle syncs with your smartphone so you can even move the desk up and down remotely. 

Likewise, you can choose from hundreds of size and color combinations so the photographer in your life gets the precise desk they need.

The Lander Lite incorporates whisper-quiet motors, too, with 225 pounds of lifting capacity.

And if you think that standing desks aren’t stable, you’re wrong! The Lander Lite offers the ultimate stable work surface. And since it’s 3-D laminated, the desktop is virtually indestructible.

Best of all, the Lander Lite Desk arrives nearly pre-assembled, so you won’t have to spend your afternoon putting the darn thing together.

Plus, it’s made in the USA, so you know the quality is top-notch!

Learn more about the Lander Lite Desk

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Sony Alpha a6300 and Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens

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

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

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

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

Pair that with the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens, and you've got quite the package!

This lens has an effective focal length of 27-202.5mm to give photographers incredible versatility from wide-angle to telephoto.

It also sports Optical SteadyShot technology, which minimizes camera shake so you can get sharper images when holding the camera in your hand.

With quick and accurate autofocus performance and quiet operation that's ideal for shooting video, this lens is a great choice for still photographers and videographers alike.

All told, this camera and lens combination is under $1,000, so you can give two gifts for the price of one!

Learn more about the Sony a6300 and the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Ikan Onyx Digital Color LED Panel Light 

Photography requires great light, and while there are many different lighting options out there, few match the creative possibilities that the Ikan Onyx Digital Color Light provides.

It has a RGBWA LED panel that offers five color modes to suit just about any kind of photo shoot.

When in RGBWA mode, the light gives photographers complete control over red, green, and blue LEDs independently. That being the case, the photographer on your list can literally create millions of different colors!

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

There’s also a CCT Mode that is adjustable from 2800K up to 10,000K. Again, this gives the photographer on your list infinite possibilities for customizing the light for their photos.

Add to that a Hue Shift feature of magenta and green lights, and you’ve got a lighting option that offers supreme matching control when using this light with other LEDs.

On top of all that, the Onyx Digital Color light has eight built-in special effects (a candle flame and police car lights among them), 33 different gels to choose from, and a built-in ½-stop diffuser.

With a CRI/TLCI rating of 95, this light produces gorgeous, clean light that is sure to knock the socks off the photographer on your holiday shopping list. 

Learn more about the Ikan Onyx Digital Color LED Light Panel 

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Synology DiskStation DS 1019+ 

It's crucial for all photographers to have a solid backup system, that way if catastrophe strikes - a flood or fire, a break-in, a hard drive failure, and so forth - their precious photos and other files will be safe and sound.

For that task, it's tough to beat the Synology DiskStation DS1019+...

I have this exact model on my desk, and it has proven to be the reliable backup I need to ensure my files are duplicated and safe.

It's small enough that it doesn't take up a ton of room on my desk while also being packed with features that make it an easy-to-use and powerful storage option. Read my complete Synology DiskStation DS1019+ review to learn more.

There are five hot-swappable bays, each of which can accommodate a 2.5-inch or a 3.5-inch drive. If the photographer on your list has TONS of files, they can easily expand that capacity to 10 bays with the Synology DX517.

Aside from the expansion capabilities, the DS1019+ is easy to operate thanks to the intuitive Synology operating system. Even if you've never setup or used a network attached storage device before, this one will be a breeze to use.

In fact, I set it up in just a few minutes with no problems or issues at all.

This unit is power-packed with an Intel Celeron J3455 1.5GHz quad-core processor that’s capable of burst speed of 2.3Ghz.

Add to that 8GB of RAM, built-in applications for video transcoding, read/write speeds up to 225MB per second, tool-free installation for 3.5-inch drives, and the Synology reputation for reliability, and you have the makings of a perfect - and practical - holiday gift idea for the photographer in your life!

Learn more about the Synology DiskStation DS1019+

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Syrp Genie II Linear

If the photographer you’re shopping for is into shooting time-lapse videos (or real-time videos, for that matter), then a perfect gift idea is the Syrp Genie II Linear. 

What’s so great about this product is its size and weight - at little more than 5.5 x 5.5 x 6.33 inches and two pounds, this little guy can be easily added to any photography bag for on-the-go motion control.

What’s more, the Genie II Linear can attach to any slider on the market, giving your favorite photographer incredible versatility in how they craft their time-lapse setup. It can also attach to cable cam systems up to 328-feet in length.

This thing is also loaded for bear with features that will enable the photographer on your list to create professional-looking videos.

From key-framing to time-lapse video, shooting B-roll to recording interviews, the Genie II Linear can get the job done!  

Throw in live view, camera control for ramping exposures, wireless control via a smartphone, and many other intelligent features, this is simply one of the best motion control devices you can get this holiday season!

Learn more about the Syrp Genie II Linear

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Aputure 120d II

Over the years, Aputure has established itself as one of the top lighting choices of photographers worldwide. That’s because of the incredible features and build quality of products like the 120d II.

I use this light in my home studio (you can read my review of it here), and it is far and away one of the best lights I’ve ever owned.

The light it produces is beautifully clean and bright (25 percent brighter than the 120d). Additionally, it has a pleasing color temperature of 5500K.

You can control the 120d II using a wireless remote from up to 328 feet away, giving photographers the ultimate in flexibility regarding the positioning related to the subject. 

Speaking of flexibility, this light is dimmable from 100 percent down to just 1 percent, so the photographer on your list can dial in the precise level of lighting they need to get the shot. 

Aputure has built in all kinds of lighting effects for further creative lighting. What’s more, the redesigned handbrake offers a super secure lock to prevent the light from moving.

That means that when the light is dialed in and positioned, you don’t have to worry about whether or not it will stay in place. That’s the kind of peace of mind photographers want from their gear!

The integrated power and control box make for easy transport while the 18 dB quiet fan won’t distract photographers while on-location. Add in a CRI and TLCI of 97+, and you have a recipe for one heck of a light for the photographer on your list!

Learn more about the Aputure 120d II

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 Lens

Earlier this year, I took the Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 for a test drive with my Sony a6400, and I was blown away by the quality of the images I was able to get.

For me, the best feature of this lens is that it is incredibly sharp. A close second would be its extremely fast and accurate focusing.

As you can see in the sample image below, this lens also produces nice bokeh that’s great for portraits.

Additionally, this lens is super lightweight, so you don’t feel like you’re lugging around a huge kit while you take photos. The photographer on your shopping list will surely appreciate that!

The look of the lens is something else, too - it’s sleek design reminds me of the Zeiss Otus lenses from back in the day. 

And while some would argue that the streamlined design means it’s not comfortable to use, I disagree. 

The big rubber ring offers tons of grip, and the lens feels great in the hand, due in large part to the lightweight design I mentioned above.

The angle of view of 29 degrees is perfect for portraits, and the maximum f/1.8 aperture allows for flexibility in low-light shooting situations.

The floating element design of the lens minimizes aberrations, and since it’s dust and weather-sealed, it can be taken out for shoots in adverse weather without worry that it will be damaged.

In other words, if the photographer on your holiday list is after a fantastic portrait lens, this is it!

Learn more about the Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 Lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: f-stop Sukha Backpack Master Bundle 

A top-of-the-line camera backpack is sure to score you some brownie points with the photographer on your holiday shopping list…

I have an f-stop Sukha, and to say that this thing can hold a lot of gear is a huge understatement… 

In fact, it can accommodate 70 liters of gear, so if your favorite photographer has a ton of stuff or they’ll be hitting the road for a while, this is the bag that they need.

And I know what you’re thinking...big bags like this make a mess of organizing gear. With all that space, everything gets jumbled up and is hard to find, right? 

Wrong!

The Master Bundle comes with a wide range of ICUs (Internal Camera Units) that maximize the space in the bag while keeping the gear inside safe, secure, and organized. 

From the ultra-small Micro Nano ICU to the big, beefy Pro X-Large ICU, there are six ICU options for a highly customizable interior space.

The f-stop Sukha Master Bundle also features goodies like a hydration sleeve, a large rain cover, and a packing cell kit that will keep your clothing nice and organized.

There are three accessory pouches, a Mano pouch, and an ICU gate as well. 

And even with all that gear inside the bag, it’s still ultimately comfortable to carry. That’s thanks to the large, cushy should straps that help distribute the weight of the bag over a larger area. The padded waistbelt is a nice touch as well. 

Learn more about the f-stop Sukha Master Bundle

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Canon EOS 7D Mark II 

If the photographer you’re shopping for is ready to upgrade their APS-C camera to a higher-end model, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a great option.

This professional-grade camera is not only budget-friendly, but it offers some great specs, too: 

• 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• Dual DIGIC 6 Image Processors
• 10 fps burst shooting
• ISO to 16,000 (expandable to 51,200)
• 1080/60p video
• Weather-sealed body

 

On top of that, Canon implemented its Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system into this camera, which is a big deal because the Dual Pixel system is usually reserved for Canon’s more expensive cameras. 

The autofocus system offers 65 AF points, all of which are cross-type. The camera has six customizable modes for focusing as well, which gives you tracking sensitivity options that improve its performance.

This thing feels like a top-shelf camera too. There's no body flex, the buttons, dials, and switches feel beefy and crisp, and the weather sealing means you can shoot in less-than-ideal conditions without worrying that your camera will be soaked to the core.

In other words, if you want to help your photography loved one step up their game, this camera is an excellent option!

Learn more about the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. 

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: ProMediaGear Pro-Stix 34 Series Tripod

 

When it comes to the very best tripods money can buy, one has to look to ProMediaGear.

The Pro-Stix 34 Series tripod is my everyday rig, and has been for about the last year or so. To say that it’s the best tripod I’ve ever owned is a massive understatement.

It’s really no contest, either.

Granted, when I first started in photography, I “bargain-basemented” my way through various cheap tripods that didn’t last more than a few months.

But as I got more experienced and had more money to devote to gear, I began utilizing more well-known brands and highly reviewed tripods.

It wasn’t until I started using ProMediaGear tripods that I reached the pinnacle of what a tripod can do, though.

For starters, this tripod can accommodate up to 60 pounds of gear. That might seem like overkill for a photographer, but as I move more and more into videography and have more and more gear to put on the tripod, having an abundance of support is definitely a good thing (and since the apex has a 1/4-20 threaded adapter port, I can easily add more gear when I need to).

Despite having a huge load capacity, this tripod is still easily transportable - it’s just over four pounds and folds down to less than 23 inches.

 

The beefy 34mm legs are made of 10-layer carbon fiber, so they are about as rock-solid as you can get.

The legs have three locking leg angle positions, tension-adjustable leg mechanisms, large molded rubber feet, and integrated stainless steel spikes to boot. In other words, this sucker is rugged and will give you durability for years and years to come.

But beyond the awesome specs and incredible reliability, I appreciate that ProMediaGear makes this and their other tripods right here in the U.S. (in Tinley Park, Illinois, to be exact). Not only that, the folks at ProMediaGear are experienced photographers, and their expertise was crucial in designing this tripod.

From a functionality standpoint, a versatility standpoint, a build-quality standpoint, and so forth, the ProMedia Gear Pro-Stix 34 series is simply the cream of the crop when it comes to the best tripods of 2019. 

Learn more about the ProMediaGear Pro-Stix 34 Series tripod

 

---

^{photo bykrystiannawrocki via iStock}

I think we can all agree that photography gear is expensive, but with a $2,500 budget, you can get some pretty incredible stuff for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

Whether your favorite photographer needs a new desk, an awesome large-format photo print, a new portrait lighting setup or something in between, we’ve got all kinds of suggestions that will satisfy their needs!

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: CanvasHQ Print 

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

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

But for all those hard-to-shop-for photographers on your 2019 holiday shopping list, I have the perfect solution - a canvas print. Or, with a $2,500 budget, you could get them a ton of prints!

Think about it…

A canvas print is a gift that keeps on giving.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ!

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

I can personally attest to the awesomeness of the iMovR Lander Desk as I have one in my home office. In short, it completely changed how I work.

You can read all about it in my iMovR Lander Desk review, but the short version is that this a desk of the highest quality that’s durable, made in the USA, highly customizable, and easy to assemble to boot!

The photographer on your list will appreciate all of these features, but if you’re going to help them assemble their new desk, you’ll both appreciate the fact that it will only take a few minutes. I set mine up by myself in less than 20 minutes, which is a far cry from the entire afternoon I spent years ago putting together my first sit-stand desk.

This sucker is super well made, too. There’s not cheap parts, no corners cut. This is truly a desk that is an investment for the long term.

It’s also worth noting how customizable the Lander desk is. There are literally hundreds of different combinations of sizes, shapes, and finishes, so your favorite photographer can pick and choose precisely what they want for a desk that not only maximizes their workflow but also looks like a million bucks.

Having a desk that transitions from a sitting to a standing desk will change any photographer’s life - sitting for hours hunched over a desk while editing photos is certainly no way to work in comfort.

And with the iMovR Lander desk, making the move from sitting to standing takes just seconds - the Bluetooth-enabled height-control paddle with high-resolution LCD requires a single double-tap to raise or lower the desk. You can even raise it or lower it by using an app on your phone! 

This is truly the nicest desk I’ve ever owned, and I cannot recommend it highly enough for other professionals in the photography industry!

Learn more about the iMovR Lander desk

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

The EOS R is Canon's very first mirrorless camera, and if the photographer on your holiday list is a Canon shooter, there are few better gifts to give this holiday season!

The EOS R offers a bevy of features that starts with an ultra-resolute 30.3-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor.

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the Canon EOS R

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Aputure Light Storm LC 120d II Daylight LED 2-Light Kit With Case 

 

I have an Aputure 120d II in my home studio, and as I explain in my review of this light, it is absolutely fantastic.

Each light has pretty incredible specs:

• 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) 

Not bad right?

This kit gives you two of these lights, each of which has a set of four-way barn doors to customize how the light interacts with the subject.

Each light also has a controller with 100-240 VAC power, a wireless remote, and a 7.5-foot light stand. Aputure even throws in a padded SKB case with a custom Think Tank interior so the photographer on your list can easily and safely transport their new lighting kit from Point A to Point B. 

Photography is all about good lighting, and Aputure certainly delivers on that front!

Learn more about the Aputure Light Storm LC 120d II Daylight LED 2-Light Kit With Case

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Nevada Art Printers Acrylic Print 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Nevada Art Printers and their Lumachrome Acrylic Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $2,500: Syrp Genie II Pan Tilt 

If the photographer on your list is a video enthusiast as well, the Syrp Genie II Pan Tilt is an ideal gift for them.

Not only is this rig ultra-portable, but it gives you complete pan and tilt motion control that adds smooth, cinematic motion to your videos with 180-degree tilting motion and 360-degree panning motion.

The Genie II Pan Tilt offers options for real-time and timelapse videos, key-framing, panoramas, and much more. And since it has removable batteries, you can easily head off the beaten path with spare batteries in hand to shoot long and beautiful cinematic sequences.

The unit has a built-in screen for checking settings and starting quick motion sequences, but it also has a companion app that allows you to control the unit from your smartphone.

Whether the photographer on your list wants a motion control device for documentary work, interviews, timelapses, panoramas, or something in between, the Genie II Pan Tilt is the device to get. 

Plus, it’s easily combined with Syrp’s Genie II Linear to get three-axis motion control in a super small and portable device. Nice, right?!

Learn more about the Syrp Genie II Pan Tilt

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the ProMediaGear TR424L Carbon Fiber Tripod

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

Like the EOS R I mentioned earlier, the Nikon Z6 is a fantastic mirrorless camera.

If your loved one is a Nikon shooter or if they just want to switch to Nikon, this is a great camera to entice them to do so.

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the Nikon Z6

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

Like their traditional sit-stand desk I mentioned earlier, iMovR’s Lander L-Desk is a well-built, feature-rich desk that has the capability of completely changing how the photographer on your list goes about their workday. 

With the same array of options regarding colors and materials, your loved one can fully customize how their desk looks to suit their specific tastes.

In fact, it’s not just the looks of these desks that are a great selling point - it’s their durability. 

iMovR uses 3D laminated desktops that are just about bulletproof. They’re hermetically sealed to protect against damage and they resist moisture, so those pesky sweat rings from your water bottle won’t bother the desktop a bit.

There’s no exposed glue seams, either, so dust, dirt, and bacteria have nowhere to hide!

You can choose to have the side table on the left or right side of the main desk and you can choose between a 24-inch or 30-inch depth side table as well.

There’s even different options for the shapes of the side table, from peninsula-shaped to half-circle. 

These desks offer tons of space, the health benefits of being convertible from sitting to standing, and they are 100 percent custom made to your specifications. Talk about a fantastic gift!

Learn more about the iMovR Lander L-Desk

Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 Lens

Designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras, the Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 is a killer portrait lens for Sony shooters. If your favorite photographer has a Sony E-mount camera (i.e., the a6400), this is a must-have lens!

This lens is supremely sharp, super lightweight, and easy to handle.

I personally like how the lens feels in the hand - it has a nice, big rubber ring that aids in gripping the camera as you move around your subject.

If the photographer on your list is in a situation in which they need to be quiet, like a recital, they'll appreciate the fact that this lens has an ultra-quiet autofocus system that's also incredibly fast and accurate.

The 29-degree angle of view is ideal for portraits, and with a maximum aperture of f/1.8, it can collect tons of light while also minimizing the depth of field. The result is a nice, blurry background for portraits.

As I mentioned above, this lens is lightweight at just over one pound, and it also has a small form factor - just 3.19 x 3.62 inches.

This lens is also dust and weather-resistant for the adventurous photographer on your holiday shopping list.

Best of all, the price on this lens has dropped - it was once over $1,100, but is now a shade under $900. That's not bad if you have a $2,500 budget!

Learn more about the Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 Lens

 

 

---

The Sony A7 series of cameras is, in a word, incredible.

These full frame beasts pack a huge punch but are packaged in a tiny body, making them ideal for landscape photographers.

They're easy to carry around, user-friendly, and there are a ton of lenses available for them for landscape photography.

Let's have a look at a few of my top lenses for landscapes with the Sony A7 series cameras.

ZEISS Batis 18mm f/2.8: A Must-Have Prime Lens

As I noted in this article last week, the ZEISS Batis 18mm f/2.8 is a killer lens that has a boatload of features:

• Focal length - 18mm
• Max aperture - f/2.8
• Lens elements/groups - 11/10
• Floating elements design that minimizes aberrations
• OLED display on the barrel that shows focus distance and DOF
• Dust and weather sealed
• Weight - 11.6 oz
• Dimensions - 3.94 x 3.15"
• Price - $1,499.00 at Adorama

Obviously, many of the features listed above make this a fantastic lens for landscapes.

The 18mm focal length paired with a full frame sensor offers a beautifully wide view of the landscape.

The OLED display on the barrel is a handy feature with its focus distance and depth of field displays to help you get the focus just right.

I'm also super impressed with the weather sealing on this lens - I'm not at all worried about sand at the beach getting into this guy. It's built like a tank!

On top of that, it's small, lightweight design pairs perfectly with the small, lightweight A7 series cameras.

Add in exceptional sharpness and lightning-fast autofocus, and you have a recipe for one of the best Sony lenses for landscapes.

Get a complete review of this lens in the video above by Jay SonyAlphaLab.

Learn more about the ZEISS Batis 18mm f/2.8

Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 Z OSS: A Versatile Zoom

If it's a versatile zoom lens you're after, Sony's own FE 16-35mm f/4 isn't a bad choice at all.

Check out these specs:

• Focal length - 16-35mm
• Max aperture - f/4
• Lens elements/groups - 12/10
• OSS image stabilization
• Dust and moisture resistant
• Weight - 18.27 oz
• Dimensions - 3.07 x 3.88"
• Price - $1,348.00 at Adorama

Obviously, sometimes you need a good zoom lens because not all landscapes are conducive to zooming with your feet.

With a nice zoom range of 16-35mm, this lens will get you super wide shots all the way up to the familiar-looking 35mm range for instances in which you want to cut out clutter or focus the viewer's attention on a smaller aspect of the landscape.

As you'd expect with something made by ZEISS, this lens is supremely sharp with virtually no distortion thanks to five aspherical elements, one advanced aspherical element, and three ED elements. That's just all the more reason why this is one of the top lenses for landscapes with the Sony A7.

Like the ZEISS Batis lens outlined earlier, this lens is small, lightweight, and well built.

It has OSS image stabilization, ZEISS' T* coating that suppresses reflections (perfect for those landscapes with lakes, ponds, and other water features), and is fantastically sharp.

With all those features, why wouldn't you want this lens in your photoshoot camera bag? Plus, it's about $850 cheaper than Sony's 16-35mm f/2.8 version.

For a detailed look at this lens, check out the video above by Christopher Frost Photography.

Learn more about the Sony FE 16-35mm f/4

Sony FE 12-24 f/4 G: An Ultra-Wide Beast

If it's ultra-wide landscape shots you're after, the 12-24mm f/4 G is one of the best landscape lenses for Sony that money can buy.

With specs like those listed below, this lens is ready to rock any landscape:

• Focal length - 12-24mm
• Max aperture - f/4
• Lens elements/groups - 17/13
• Dust and moisture resistant
• Weight - 1.24 lbs
• Dimensions - 3.43 x 4.62"
• Price - $1,698.00 at Adorama

Since this is the shortest focal length lens you can get for a Sony E-mount camera, there's no lens better-suited to capture ultra-wide-angle views of breathtaking landscapes.

True to form, this lens is impeccably crafted and offers top-of-the-line resolution from corner to corner at any aperture.

In fact, you'll find that the refined optics in this lens allows you to photograph scenes with jaw-dropping clarity and sharpness.

This lens is also compact, lightweight, features a handy customizable focus hold button, dust and moisture resistance, and Sony's Nano AR Coating, which suppresses reflections, flare, and ghosting.

See this lens in action in the video above by Mark Galer's Alpha Creative Skills.

Learn more about the Sony FE 12-24mm f/4 G

---

^{Photo by GMax Studios on Unsplash}

If you ask me, Sony is all the rage right now, and for good reason: their cameras and their selection of lenses just keeps getting better. 

Although Canon and Nikon are both ahead of the game in terms of the sheer selection of lenses that are available, Sony is rapidly catching up.

In this article, I’ll break down some of my favorite Sony full frame lenses, no holds barred.

Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM

This full frame Sony lens is definitely on my Christmas wishlist this year because it’s built for travel and I’ve got a trip to Germany planned in March. 

This full frame Sony lens is what truly made them a valid competitor with Canon and Nikon.

 

This lens crafts extremely sharp photos with beautiful bokeh, and it’s sturdy, too - just what you want in an all-rounder travel lens. 

Other Sony FE lenses don’t offer the same level of features or quality, but that is definitely reflected in the price of this rig... 

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM is available on Amazon for $2,200.

Learn More:

• Best Travel Photography Lens 
• 5 Vintage Lenses You Can Use on Your DSLR 

Sony 55mm f/1.8 

If you can’t afford the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM, this Sony lens is another good option in the travel and portrait categories. 

While Sony does provide the same type of lens in f/1.4, it’s much more expensive and not necessary for most photographers. Plus, this 55mm creates sharp photos with fast and quiet autofocus. It’s also really light, weighing in at just 9.9 ounces, so it won’t be hard to throw it in your carry-on.

Again, you could spring for the Sony 55mm f/1.4 for an additional $500, but many Sony cameras already have incredibly high ISO capabilities, so in my mind it makes more sense to save the $500, bump up the ISO a little bit, and work with this f/1.8 version.  

The Sony 55mm f/1.8 is available on Amazon for $898.

Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8

I love my Zeiss Batis lens. If sharpness is what you want, look no further!

Zeiss has a reputation for sharp optics, and this lens is certainly no different with beautiful detail from corner to corner.

I use my Zeiss Batis for landscape photography because it’s light and it’s a great pairing with my Sony a7R III. The wide-angle view it provides allows me to incorporate wide, sweeping vistas and beautiful foreground detail as well. 

This lens also offers superb color rendition, very little distortion, and quick autofocus performance.

It’s shape is a little weird, which makes it a tad bulky, but at least it’s bulky without being heavy - it weighs just 11.6 ounces.

The Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 is available on Amazon for $1,260. 

Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art

 

Sony full frame lenses, like this Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art, are popular. Most of my photography friends were waiting for this Sigma for well over a year, and for good reason. It’s got almost all the qualities of Sony’s GM version, except it’s $600 cheaper.

Sigma created an 85mm f/1.4 for both Canon and Nikon and they quickly became the most popular lens for portrait photographers. 

Unfortunately, Sony lenses can get pretty heavy, and this one is no different weighing in at nearly 40 ounces, which doesn’t seem like much until you’re carrying it for 14 hours!

However, this lens is ultra-sharp and produces deliciously beautiful bokeh, and that 85mm focal length is perfect for portraiture.

The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art is available on Amazon for $950.

Learn More:

• These Crazy Camera Lenses Have to Be Seen to Be Believed
• How to Get the Most Out of Your Nifty Fifty Lens

Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM

There’s no way I could write a whole article about Sony full frame lenses and not include this awesome telephoto, the Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM. 

Around this time last year, nobody could get their hands on this Sony lens because it almost immediately sold out everywhere, but it’s back.

The images it produces are sharp, except for in the far corners, and it’s got built-in image stabilization. Plus, it focuses quickly and it produces nice bokeh. 

The built-in image stabilization is a nice feature, too, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths. 

If you need a versatile, all-around lens with more reach than a typical zoom, this lens is a great choice.

The Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM is available on Amazon for $2,600.

How to Save Money on Lenses

^{Photo by lucas Favre on Unsplash} 

Clearly, each of the lenses described above cost a pretty penny. Fortunately, there’s a way around their steep prices - buying used. 

I know some photographers that refuse to buy used gear, and it just doesn’t make sense to me. 

I’ve bought (and sold) a ton of used gear over the years, and by and large, it’s been a good experience, particularly now that I use Lensfinder for my gear needs.

Lensfinder is a community built by photographers, for photographers, so you know that the items listed for sale aren’t knock-offs or stolen.

That’s because Lensfinder has built-in fraud protections. Plus, you can message sellers, make your purchase, and leave feedback all right within Lensfinder, so it’s a great little community for getting what you need and building connections with other photographers.

Plus, the savings you can find can be quite large, so you might even be able to pick up a couple of used lenses for the price of one new one. Nice!

Check out Lensfinder’s inventory and see if you can find a great Sony full frame lens on the cheap.

 

---

Over the weekend, I had a chance to test out the new Zeiss 85mm f/1.8 Batis lens. You'll find my sample photos throughout this post.

It wasn't long before I formed an opinion that this is one hell of a lens...

^{85mm, f/1.8, 1/3200 sec}

I tested it with a Sony a6400 - this lens was designed especially for the Sony E-mount system. Needless to say, I can't wait to test this thing out with the new Sony a7R IV when it comes out (hopefully later this year).

^{85mm, f/1.8, 1/4000 sec}

^{85mm, f/1.8, 1/800 sec}

This last weekend was a toasty one here in Southern California, so my best buddy and I spent a lot of time outdoors at Disneyland and the pool. He made a great subject to follow around and test this lens.

^{85mm, f/1.8, 1/4000 sec}

So far, there really isn't much that I dislike about this lens.

It's ludicrously sharp, surprisingly lightweight, and has a beautiful, streamlined finish that is reminiscent of Zeiss Otus lenses.

^{85mm, f/2, 1/2000 sec}

^{85mm, f/2, 1/2000 sec}

It's got a nice feel to it, with a big rubber ring for extra grip.

Focusing is highly accurate, silent, and blazing fast.

^{85mm, f/8, 1/800 sec}

After just three days of playing around with this lens, it's easy to see why it gets near-perfect five-star reviews!

My only major beef with this rig is that there's no Z-mount option for Nikon cameras. Hook us Nikon peeps up with this amazing glass, Zeiss!

Zeiss 85mm f/1.8 Batis Specs

^{85mm, f/2, 1/3200 sec}

Here's a quick rundown of some of this lens's specs and features:

• Focal length - 85mm
• Angle of view - 29
• Max aperture - f/1.8
• Min aperture - f/22
• Electronic aperture with 9 blades
• Fast AF drive system with linear motors
• Lens elements/groups - 11/8
• Floating elements design that minimizes aberrations
• OLED display on the barrel that shows focus distance and DOF
• Dust and weather sealed
• Weight - 1.05 pounds
• Dimensions - 3.19 x 3.62"
• Price - $1,199.00 at Adorama

Zeiss 85mm f/1.8 Batis Pros & Cons

^{85mm, f/16, 1/125 sec}

Even after just a few days, I'm prepared to label a number of things about this lens that are absolutely stellar:

• Compact size - you'd expect a lens of this quality to be much, much heavier
• Dust and weather resistance
• Blazing fast with that big f/1.8 aperture
• Super accurate autofocusing system (there's manual override too!)
• Impeccably sharp even at f/1.8, but especially so in the mid-aperture range

^{85mm, f/8, 1/800 sec}

^{85mm, f/8, 1/640 sec}

In terms of things I don't like, I'm struggling to come up with anything I found especially annoying.

Sure, it would be nice to have a Z-mount option, but I suppose other than that, my only quibble is that the OLED display is cumbersome to turn on and off. You can use the OLED display in manual focus or autofocus, so I suppose that's a nice touch.

But, honestly, if that's all I have to question about this lens, I think it's safe to say we have a winner on our hands here.

^{85mm, f/2, 1/1600 sec}

Again, I've only had a few days to play around with this lens, so these are just my first impressions.

I will get into much more detail and provide an in-depth review of this lens in the coming weeks once I have a chance to really dive deep with it.

Stay tuned for that!

In the meantime, if you're so excited about this lens that you have to have one, head over to Adorama to buy one for yourself.

---

A couple of weeks ago, I got a Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 lens. In this article, I offered my first impression of it, which was, spoiler alert...that it's an incredible lens.

Well, this time around, I've got a Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 lens to take for a test drive, and initial impressions are that this bad boy is every bit as good as its 85mm cousin.

Zeiss 18mm f/2.8 Batis Specs

This lens is stuffed with features that photographers of all ilks will appreciate:

• Focal length - 18mm
• Angle of view - 99
• Max aperture - f/2.8
• Min aperture - f/22
• Electronic aperture
• Lens elements/groups - 11/10
• Floating elements design that minimizes aberrations
• OLED display on the barrel that shows focus distance and DOF
• Dust and weather sealed
• Weight - 11.6 oz
• Dimensions - 3.94 x 3.15"
• Price - $1,499.00 at Adorama

Zeiss 18mm f/2.8 Batis Pros & Cons

Just as I discovered after only a few days with the Zeiss Batis 85mm lens, the 18mm lens has a number of slam-dunk features that are distinct benefits:

• Exceptionally fast autofocus
• Delightfully sharp
• Super lightweight construction, ideal for small Sony mirrorless cameras
• Excellent rubber focusing ring
• Superb weather sealing

I think all of the above are pretty self-explanatory except perhaps for the rubber focusing ring.

I list it as a benefit of this lens because I love the tactile nature of it. It feels beefy without being cumbersome, and you feel confident dialing in the specific zoom you want thanks to its smooth motion.

As far as cons go, I don't have any thus far.

Like I noted in my first impressions of the 85mm, the OLED display is a little cumbersome to turn on and off, but other than that, this lens has impressed the hell out of me.

Who Should Buy the Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8?

I'm mostly a landscape photographer, so I'll advocate for this lens as being an excellent candidate for any landscape photographer's camera bag.

The 18mm focal length is perfect for capturing those wide, sweeping vistas on a full frame Sony camera. Heck, with a 99-degree angle of view, you can capture a ton of detail!

In my case, shooting with the Sony a6400, the lens has an effective focal length of 27mm, which is still plenty wide for landscapes.

And since this lens is supremely sharp, all of that detail will be beautifully displayed!

The weather-sealed design is another reason why landscape photographers need this lens in their bag. Be it rain, snow, dust, or something in between, Zeiss has made sure the interior of the lens will remain safe.

It's not the cheapest lens in the world, but, hey, you get what you pay for! Learn more about the Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8.

---