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The Best ND Filters You Can Buy in 2021 (9 Picks)

28 Jun

The post The Best ND Filters You Can Buy in 2021 (9 Picks) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Simon Ringsmuth.

the best ND filters to enhance your photos

Choosing the best ND filter isn’t just about buying whatever option is the most expensive. While some pricier filters certainly use higher-quality components than their cheaper counterparts, there are a variety of factors to consider when looking at neutral density filters.

These small pieces of dark glass can work wonders for your photography and are a great way to add a splash of creativity to your shots or see things in a way you never thought possible. But if you are overwhelmed by the options and aren’t sure where to start, this list of the nine best ND filters should help point you in the right direction.

fountain in a park with a rainbow — Shot with a 10-stop ND filter.
Nikon D750 | 50mm f/1.8G | f/16 | 15s | ISO 100

Before we get too far into the list, know that there are many ND filter varieties and options that can suit your needs. ND filters perform a specific task, but they go about it in different ways – and what works for one person might not always work for another. So this list is designed to help you determine the best ND filters for specific needs, budgets, and quality levels.

It’s also important to know that ND filters come in many sizes, designed to suit different lenses. Most lenses have a screw-on thread size (you can find this printed on the lens itself). When purchasing an ND filter, you’ll need to ensure that the filter thread size matches your lens thread size.

Generally speaking, smaller filters will be less expensive, so think of the prices of the filters featured in this article as a rough estimate. The exact price of a filter for your lens will vary. To facilitate easier comparisons in terms of price, most of the filters here are 58mm, but don’t just buy a 58mm filter (or any other size) without checking your lens first.

1. Best ND filter for new users: Tiffen ND Filter Kit

If you are just getting started with ND filters and aren’t sure what you want to do with them, you can’t go wrong with Tiffen’s basic set. It’s inexpensive and includes three separate filters that let you block a small – but not insignificant! – amount of light.

The 4-stop filter is great for trying longer exposures in well-lit situations, whereas the 2-stop filter is nice if you want to use a prime lens wide open in bright light but your camera can’t support ultra-fast shutter speeds like 1/8000s.

Construction quality on Tiffen filters is decent but not outstanding, and while these filters might produce an unsightly color cast, it can be corrected easily in post-processing (just make sure you’re shooting in RAW).

Pros

Relatively inexpensive
Contains three separate filters
Includes carrying case

Cons

Subpar image quality
Average build

2. Best inexpensive ND filter: Neewer ND Filter Kit

For photographers who are more concerned about price than anything else, this set of Neewer ND filters is the way to go. Neewer is well-known in the photographic community for producing decent-quality-yet-inexpensive gear, and this filter set is no exception.

The Neewer ND Filter Kit won’t win any awards for quality, but the variety of filters included in the kit leaves room for a great deal of experimentation. Also, you can stack filters to produce even longer exposures; simply put one on your lens, then screw another onto that filter. This lets you test out very long exposures in bright light, with the significant caveat that your image quality will take a big hit (expect your pictures to take a major dip in sharpness and have a deep green or red color cast when stacking).

However, for budget-conscious photographers, these tradeoffs might be well worth it considering the cheap price.

Pros

Very inexpensive
Kit includes four filters, which is great for learning and experimenting
Filters can be stacked to block out even more light

Cons

Subpar image quality
Average build quality
Stacking filters results in a severe loss of sharpness

3. Best midrange ND filter: Hoya 3-Stop ND Filter

Why purchase a single ND filter when you can buy multiple filters for an equivalent price? The answer really comes down to two things: image quality and construction quality.

This Hoya filter is only three stops, so it won’t let you get super long exposures in bright daylight, but image quality is superior compared to some of the less expensive options on this list. It also has a special coating to reduce glare and other image artifacts, plus it undergoes a higher level of quality control to minimize problems more common in cheaper filters.

Pros

Good image quality
Good build quality
Negligible color cast in final images

Cons

Coating does not resist dust and scratches as effectively as more expensive filters
Can be difficult to attach and remove if not careful

4. Best semi-professional ND filter: B+W 6-Stop ND Filter

B+W filters strike a nice balance between image quality, construction of materials, and price. So while this 6-stop filter isn’t the most expensive option out there, it’s a significant upgrade from the cheaper ND filters on this list in a few key areas.

For instance, image quality is improved; you will see almost no green or magenta color cast in your images, unlike cheaper filters that often come in kits. And six stops of light-blocking power give you the freedom to create interesting images and play around with longer exposures without stacking several filters on top of each other.

Pros

Reduces light transmission more than less expensive filters
Great image quality
Very good build quality
Easy to screw on and off a lens

Cons

High price may dissuade beginner and casual photographers

5. Best budget 10-stop ND filter: B+W 10-Stop ND Filter

If you really want to go all-out with longer exposures but don’t want to go broke in the process, I highly recommend this 10-stop filter from B+W.

Image quality is excellent – you’ll notice a slight color cast that can be easily fixed if you shoot RAW – and build quality is outstanding. 10 stops of light-blocking power let you shoot in broad daylight for several seconds even at larger apertures. You can get creative with long exposures, and by closing down your aperture and leaving the shutter open for 20 or 30 seconds, you can eliminate moving objects and passersby.

I really enjoy using this filter, and it’s a great step up from other less expensive options on this list.

Pros

Relatively inexpensive compared to other 10-stop ND filters
Good build quality

Cons

Slight color cast to images compared to more expensive options
Can be difficult to remove from the lens if over-tightened

6. Best budget variable ND filter: Bower Variable ND Filter

Variable ND filters solve an interesting problem faced by many photographers: how to block different amounts of light without physically altering your gear. Variable ND filters let you turn a ring on the filter itself to adjust its light-blocking power, so there’s no need to buy multiple filters or attempt filter stacking.

The Bower Variable ND filter is a great entry point for people who want to use this type of filter without spending much money. Image quality on variable ND filters like this one is not as good compared to a solid ND filter, but if you value convenience over sharpness, then the tradeoff is worth it. I wouldn’t recommend doing professional work with this inexpensive filter, but for new users who want a good option without spending a lot of money, this Bower filter fits the bill.

Pros

A great way to explore variable ND filters without spending too much money
Pretty good image quality
Very versatile, with adjustments from 2 to 8 stops of light

Cons

Build quality isn’t as good as more expensive options
Overall image sharpness is lacking

7. Best 10-stop ND filter: PolarPro QuartzLine ND Filter

If money is no object and you value image quality above all else, this PolarPro filter is the perfect choice. Like its less-expensive B+W counterpart, it blocks 10 stops of light for very long exposures in bright light, but it also comes with several quality-of-life improvements that many photographers will appreciate. These include rock-solid image construction, thickly-knurled edges to help grip the filter as you screw it on and off, and special coatings to reduce problematic image artifacts as well as protect against damage from dust and water.

I don’t recommend this ND filter for beginners, but if you are looking for a significant step up from the less-expensive options on this list, the PolarPro is a stellar buy.

Pros

Outstanding build quality
Big, chunky knurled edges make it easy to attach and remove
Excellent image quality

Cons

Very high price

8. Best graduated ND filter: Hoya Graduated ND10

Normal ND filters have one key limitation: they block light uniformly across the entire lens, which can be problematic in some scenarios (e.g., when a scene features a significantly brighter foreground than background or vice versa). Enter graduated neutral density filters, which block varying degrees of light across the frame.

This Hoya Graduated ND filter is a great option for landscape photographers who want a darker sky but a lighter foreground (and other such tricky scenarios). The Hoya blocks light gradually from three stops to one stop, is built from quality materials, and won’t break the bank like other, more expensive options.

Pros

Smooth, even gradations from dark to light
Very good image quality
Direction of gradations can be easily altered after the filter is attached to a lens

Cons

Price is a bit higher than what some beginners would want to spend

9. Best 15-stop ND filter: Lee ProGlass IRND 4.5

The Lee ProGlass IRND is big, expensive, and won’t work without a special holder that attaches to the front of your camera lens. It’s impractical for most people, but it’s also the best option available for photographers who want to block out a lot of light.

This 15-stop filter lets you capture extraordinarily long exposures in broad daylight; shutter speeds are measured in minutes rather than seconds. Moving objects will disappear from your final shots, and the surface of any body of water will be transformed into smooth glass.

This 15-stop filter is not for the faint of heart – but for those willing to spend some money and put in the time and effort to learn how to use it, the results are phenomenal.

Pros

Excellent build quality
Outstanding image quality
Comes with an exposure guide for calculating very long shutter speeds

Cons

Very expensive
Requires the use of a filter holder (which must be purchased separately)
Not as convenient or easy to use as a screw-on filter

Best ND filter: conclusion

long exposure sunset with ND filter — The setting sun combined with a 3-stop ND filter made it possible for me to shoot a long exposure and smooth out the surface of the water while capturing motion in the clouds.
Fuji X100F | 23mm | f/16 | 30s | ISO 200

Neutral density filters are a great way to experiment with fun, creative ideas and explore new photographic possibilities. If you’ve never used an ND filter, I recommend getting one of the less expensive options on this list to see what you have been missing, and if you are a seasoned professional, you might consider a graduated ND filter or even a Lee 15-stop filter to really expand your horizons.

No matter what type of photographer you are, there should be at least one option on this list of best ND filters that is right for you.

Now I’d love to see some of your long-exposure shots and hear your thoughts on your favorite ND filters. Leave photos and share your opinions in the comments section below!

Best neutral density filter FAQ

My camera has a built-in ND filter. Can I use that instead of buying a separate ND filter?

You can, of course, use the ND filter that is built into your camera, but these typically only block 2-3 stops of light. That’s enough to do some experimenting, but you won’t be able to get ultra-long exposures in broad daylight. For that, you will need a separate ND filter such as one of the options on this list.

When are the best times to use an ND filter?

This is really a matter of personal preference, but I like to use ND filters to get smooth motion with water. Some people use them to remove moving objects when shooting static subjects, like a monument or a sculpture. Another great option is to use them when shooting portraits in bright light; you can then work with wider apertures without reaching the limit of your camera’s shutter speed.

Will an ND filter protect my lens?

Yes, but that’s not their primary purpose. If you want to shield your lens from dirt and scratches, look into a UV filter or a clear filter. You can then attach an ND filter on top, though image sharpness will decrease just a bit as a result.

Do I have to shoot in RAW when using ND filters?

No, but I do recommend it. Shooting in RAW makes it easy to adjust the exposure of your image, fix green or magenta color casts, and clean up spots from dust on the lens. The latter is usually not visible with larger apertures, but when shooting long exposures it’s common to stop down your lens, which makes small imperfections on your lens easier to see in the final image.

The post The Best ND Filters You Can Buy in 2021 (9 Picks) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Simon Ringsmuth.

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DPReview TV: F1.4 or F2.0? Which are the best Fujifilm primes?

26 Jun

The guys at DPReview TV always go above and beyond to produce their videos. This video comparison of Fujifilm’s F1.4 and F2 primes show just how dedicated they are, with Chris powering through the pain after suffering a nasty injury.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get new episodes of DPReview TV every week.

Introduction
18mm
The injury
23mm
35mm
The wrap

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom: Which Is Best in 2021?

23 Jun

The post Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom: Which Is Best in 2021? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

Are you trying to decide between Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom but you keep getting confused? This used to happen to me, too – because to understand ACR and what it offers, you have to understand the program that hosts it (either Photoshop or Bridge).

That’s also why some people haven’t even heard of Adobe Camera Raw even though they’re using it; it’s the program designed by Adobe to develop RAW files, so it’s integrated into all Adobe photo-editing programs, including Lightroom.

As you read through this article, you’ll notice that ACR and Lightroom look very similar. Both of them allow you to process your photos and make adjustments to color and exposure. You can also correct perspective, fix lens distortions, and apply effects such as a vignette or split toning.

So what’s the difference? Keep reading to find out!

Whether you know Adobe Camera Raw or not and whether you shoot in RAW format or not (I hope you do!), this article can help you choose which editing program works best for you.

Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom: overview

Adobe Camera Raw was first launched in 2003 to develop RAW files. It can be supported by Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Bridge, and After Effects.

Lightroom was based on Adobe Camera Raw and was initially released in 2007. As such, both programs share the same RAW processing technology. And in recent updates, Lightroom and ACR have started to look quite similar.

That said, if you want to use ACR, you need another software program to host it. Lightroom, on the other hand, is a one-program solution. It’s the reason why making a comparison between Lightroom and Camera Raw is so difficult – you’re comparing a plugin to a full-fledged software program.

Ultimately, there are two major comparisons you can make:

If you want to know which program to use for serious photo editing, you need to consider Lightroom vs Adobe Camera Raw in Photoshop.
If you want to know which program to use for file management and basic editing, the comparison is between Lightroom vs Adobe Camera Raw in Bridge.

That’s why, to avoid confusion, this article is structured in terms of features and workflows. Then I’ll wrap things up by telling you which program wins (in my opinion) considering the needs of different photographers.

Access and interface

Lightroom

The first big difference between Lightroom and Adobe Camera Raw is that Lightroom is a standalone program. You can get an Adobe subscription and have access to Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, and Lightroom Mobile.

The individual subscription only allows for Lightroom to be installed on two devices, and files can only be accessed by one person at a time.

The interface is very user-friendly and streamlined. As a result, Lightroom is easy to use and has a smaller learning curve than Camera Raw.

When handling RAW files, Lightroom uses the same technology as Camera Raw. The results should therefore be the same but with a different interface.

Adobe Camera Raw

You can’t download and use Adobe Camera Raw on its own – you always have to use it through another Adobe app. These can be Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Bridge, or After Effects.

When you launch Adobe Camera Raw with these programs, you access the ACR interface. Since the most recent updates, ACR looks very similar to Lightroom. Because of this, the user experience is very similar. However, learning to use Bridge and Photoshop is more difficult than learning Lightroom.

Adobe Bridge can be installed on any number of computers and can be accessed by multiple contributors at a time. Photoshop, like Lightroom, can only be installed on two computers and can’t be used at the same time.

Files and formats

the organization options in Lightroom and Camera Raw

Adobe Camera Raw

Adobe Camera Raw was developed with the idea of opening and editing RAW files. It therefore supports most raw file formats (you can find a complete list of cameras supported by ACR on the Adobe website). And you can use ACR to process other file formats such as JPEG and TIFF.

ACR + Photoshop

When you open a RAW file with Photoshop, it will automatically launch Adobe Camera Raw. Camera Raw can also be launched midway through your workflow in Photoshop as a filter.

ACR + Bridge

Bridge supports all sorts of file formats because it’s meant to be an asset manager for all of the Adobe apps. So it handles PDF files, AI files, PSD files, etc.

When you open a RAW file from Bridge, it will automatically launch Adobe Camera Raw. If you want to use ACR with other photography formats (such as JPEG), you can just right-click on the image and choose Open>Camera Raw.

Lightroom

Lightroom might share some photo-editing capabilities with Camera Raw, but it wasn’t developed specifically for RAW files – it was created to satisfy the needs of all photographers. As a result, you can import any type of photo with the same process regardless of the format.

Lightroom supports most RAW formats (including DNG), HEIF, TIFF files in 8, 16, and 32 bits, JPEG, PSD, PSB, CMYK, PNG, and some video formats.

Image editing and batch editing

The photo editing tools in Lightroom and Camera Raw are quite similar. Both offer basic color and exposure adjustments.

You can also do selective edits, crop and rotate, remove spots, correct perspective and chromatic aberration, etc. But there are a few differences, as discussed below:

Lightroom

One of the best things about Lightroom is the ability to sync your edits across multiple photos. After you’ve edited a single photo, you can tell Lightroom to sync all the edits with other photos in the catalog (or you can select just a few adjustments to sync).

Another way to apply the same edits to multiple pictures is by using presets. You can save your edits as a preset, or you can download presets from other photographers (some are free, others are for sale). You can then preview the presets just by hovering over them, which makes it easier to browse different effects.

A great Lightroom feature is that it retains a photo’s editing history, even if you close it and come back to your image another time. That way, you can always revert to an earlier version if you’re unhappy with your recent edits.

Lightroom does support video files, though you can do very little video editing (you can apply some presets and use the Quick Edits in the Library module).

Adobe Camera Raw

In Camera Raw, you can batch edit only if you decide to do so from the beginning. You simply open several images in ACR and select them. Then every adjustment you make will be applied to all the selected images.

If you want, you can save your edits as a preset and apply them to multiple photos inside Adobe Camera Raw. It’s also possible to buy or download ACR presets from other creators; however, there aren’t as many available as there are for Lightroom.

To edit video, you can use Camera Raw as a filter inside Photoshop CC – all the tools are enabled as if you were editing a photograph. And Photoshop allows you to edit the duration of the video, add text, graphics, and so much more.

With Adobe Camera Raw, if you want to come back to a certain point in your editing process, you need to save Snapshots as you go. These Snapshots get stored in an XMP file, so they’ll be available anytime you want them – as long as you remember to create them. Otherwise, there’s no way to go back in your editing history if you close and later re-open the file.

File management

ACR and Lightroom snapshots and image previewing

This is one of the biggest differences between Lightroom and Camera Raw; Lightroom is an image manipulation and organization software, while Camera Raw is only for image manipulation. Therefore, you simply cannot manage your files with ACR (no file management features exist!). That’s why I’ll compare the workflow of Bridge plus Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom.

Both workflows allow you to organize, tag, and rate your files before or after editing. Adding keywords is also available in both programs.

Adobe Camera Raw + Bridge

Bridge is a file browser that you can use to manage all the files – not just the photographic ones – on your hard drive. Therefore, you’re working directly with your original files.

Because you’re only browsing existing files, loading is faster than Lightroom’s import process, though it takes longer if you need to search with keywords or you want to make collections.

Since Bridge supports many file types and gives access to more than one person at a time, it’s great for collaborative work in big teams, whether people are working on the same or different projects.

From Bridge, you can access Adobe Camera Raw to process your images – RAW and otherwise. All the edits are saved in a sidecar file (ACR creates one for every photo). Having the edits in separate files is what makes the adjustments in ACR a non-destructive process. Separate files can also store presets.

Lightroom

Lightroom is a database program. When you import your images, you can access them even if they are offline, you can sync them across devices (if you use Lightroom CC), and you can keep your original files intact.

Importing your images can be a slow process, as Lightroom uploads the files and creates high-resolution previews (you have several options here). However, once the import process is complete, searching and organizing your files is faster than in Bridge.

Note that edits done in Lightroom and uploaded to the Cloud can be accessed from other devices that share the account, because all the files and edits are stored in one place. Edits can also be saved as presets for a more efficient workflow.

Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom: Which program is best in 2021?

As you’ve probably gathered, there’s not a clear answer to the Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom question. The program that’s best depends on your workflow and personal preferences.

If you’re a beginner photographer, Lightroom might be better for you, as it’s more user-friendly and has a smaller learning curve. Also, if you like using presets, you’ll find plenty of great options for Lightroom users. If you don’t plan to do advanced photo retouching, you can even get by without Photoshop.

For event photographers who need to cull, keyword, and batch-edit large amounts of pictures, Lightroom has better organizing tools. Also, most websites allow direct uploading from Lightroom, which allows you to share images with your clients in a more efficient way.

On the other hand, photographers who also need to edit videos or do graphic design will appreciate Adobe Camera Raw. That’s because Bridge and Photoshop support more file types and offer more tools for advanced editing.

In terms of cost, the two programs are essentially identical. For $ 10 USD per month, you can grab Adobe’s Lightroom Plan (which includes access to Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC, plus 1 TB of cloud storage). Alternatively – and also for $ 10 USD per month – you can purchase Adobe’s Photography Plan, which includes Lightroom Classic, Lightroom CC, and Photoshop CC (with Adobe Camera Raw), though cloud storage is limited to 20 GB.

Of course, you can also use both Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom according to the needs of each project – that’s what I do!

Now over to you:

What do you think of Adobe Camera Raw? How does it compare to Lightroom? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom FAQs

Is Adobe Camera Raw free?

Not really. While you don’t pay for Adobe Camera Raw specifically, accessing the full program requires a Photoshop subscription.

How do I use Adobe Camera Raw with Lightroom?

Whenever you import a RAW file, Lightroom automatically uses ACR – you don’t have to do anything extra because ACR is built into Lightroom’s editing engine.

How do I use Adobe Camera Raw with Photoshop?

When you open a RAW file in Photoshop, it will automatically launch ACR. You can also use Adobe Camera Raw as a filter at any time while in Photoshop.

What is the difference between Adobe Camera Raw and Photoshop’s Camera Raw filter?

The Camera Raw filter has fewer tools than ACR. Also, you can use the filter to modify a layer in a document, but it cannot modify the document properties.

Can I use Adobe Camera Raw by itself?

No. ACR is a plugin that needs to be hosted by another program – you can use it with Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Bridge, and After Effects.

The post Adobe Camera Raw vs Lightroom: Which Is Best in 2021? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

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The Best Lightroom Presets in 2021 (13 Beautiful Options)

17 Jun

The post The Best Lightroom Presets in 2021 (13 Beautiful Options) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

If you’re looking for the best Lightroom presets, you’ve come to the right place. Given the number of available options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed – or even worse, buy a pack of presets that you’ll never use.

To help you navigate the wide market of Lightroom presets, we’ve put together a selection of the best quality packs (to fit many different needs).

So read on to discover the 13 best preset packs in 2021!

1. Landscape and Travel Photography Presets

Best Lightroom presets landscape and travel photography presets

Fine art photographer Jan Erik Waider offers a bundle of eight Lightroom presets packs, designed for different landscapes. Some target physical locations, such as polar or forest landscapes. Others offer a specific aesthetic, such as cinematic or dark and dramatic.

These professional presets allow customization so you can “develop a repeatable personal style.” In addition to the eight preset packs, the bundle includes a surprise pack and will give you access to all future preset releases.

Of course, if you’re not interested in the entire bundle, you can also also purchase the packs individually.

2. Night Leaks

This free pack of presets from Presetlove.com will add vibrancy to your urban night photography. It’s part of the Night bundle, which includes more than 300 free presets.

Night Leaks work best on night scenes where there’s artificial lighting, such as street lights. They’re designed to give you a colorful and vibrant effect with clear tonal contrast.

3. Golden Hour Presets

These Golden Hour Lightroom presets are perfect for portrait photographers who organize outdoor sessions. We all know that golden hour offers beautiful light for your photos. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to schedule your clients around that time.

KatherineDream offers 15 Lightroom presets for mobile and desktop that will give your photos those beautiful, warm, golden hour tones. And on her Etsy shop, KatherineDream offers multiple other packs (and often puts her presets on sale!).

4. All in One Lightroom Preset Bundle

The All In One Lightroom Preset Bundle is perfect for beginner photographers. If you don’t have a field of specialization and you’re still figuring out your style, you’ll find 90 helpful presets to choose from.

The Bundle includes presets for everything: beach shooting, indoor photography, food photos, portrait photos, black and white photos, and moody photos. In other words, the All In One Bundle offers everything a beginner could need – and it even comes with a handy how-to guide!

5. Boho Wedding

If you’re a wedding photographer, then you know how important it is to have an automated workflow that delivers consistent results.

This Boho Wedding preset bundle offers ten one-click presets; they’re easy to adjust, plus they come with an installation guide PDF and video. And they create a creamy warm tone that improves the overall ambiance of your pictures.

6. Winter Wonderland Preset Collection

Most winter presets only add a cool tone to your images – but the Winter Wonderland Collection offers a uniquely well-rounded solution for a winter look.

This bundle offers 32 presets and 5 brushes to create snowy and winter images, no matter the weather forecast. All the presets are customizable, and an instruction guide and video tutorial are included in the download.

7. The Crush Pack

Unlike other presets that are based on subject matter or mood, the Crush Pack is designed for light. Each preset is tailored to a specific lighting scenario so that you always know which to apply.

Whether it is soft or hard light, backlight or flash, there’s a preset to improve your picture, delivering a “bold and vivid style that maintains the skin tone.” You can buy the Crush Pack on its own, or bundled with the Retouching Toolkit for a special discounted price.

8. 20 Free Lightroom Presets Collection

This is a starter pack from BeArt-Presets, and includes 20 presets that can be applied to all types of photographs, from food to portraits.

The download includes two sets of presets: one set for mobile and one set for desktop. And once you determine which preset styles you’re after, there’s a shop with more specialized presets for sale.

9. Free Lightroom Presets for Street Photography

Free street photography Lightroom presets

These presets are designed for a grungy look that creates contrasty, detailed images and is especially suited for urban photography.

You’ll be able to choose between color, black and white, and three different tones to “make your images jump off the screen.”

10. Color Pop

If you’re looking for a pack of Lightroom presets to make your images stand out, the Color Pop presets are exactly what you need. You get 20 different presets designed to boost the color of any photograph and make your images look vibrant and fresh.

The files come in three different formats for maximum compatibility. And if you’re impressed and you want more, PhotographyPla.net also offers a bundle with all 1000 of their presets.

11. Free HDR Lightroom Presets

This free preset pack offers ten Lightroom presets designed to adjust the light balance and color tones while boosting saturation, luminosity, and contrast. You can find the preset that matches your style and subject and apply it with just one click.

And if you like what you see, Fix the Photo has a store with a wide variety of LR presets, PS actions, LUTs, overlays, and more.

12. Nathan Elson’s 2020 Lightroom Presets

Nathan Elson is a professional photographer who specializes in portrait, fashion, commercial, and architecture photography; his very defined style inspired this preset collection.

The download includes six color profiles and ten custom-built presets that “create cinematic images to push your photography to the next level.”

13. Prolost Graduated Presets

Designed for complete beginners, the Prolost preset pack includes over 600 presets for you to choose from.

Each effect comes in different intensities; that way, you only need to hover over each preset to preview different results. If you like an effect, you click to apply. And because the pack already comes with plenty of variations, no customization is required.

How do you pick the right presets?

There isn’t one perfect preset that will fit every photograph. There are, however, presets that will be more fitting for your workflow. So given the many choices available on the market, how do you choose?

First of all, look at the quality of the work from the creator and what they’re offering. Any adjustment can technically be turned into a preset, so you’ll run into a lot of useless downloads. Some websites or blogs offer a freebie to get you on their mailing list or make you subscribe, but all you receive is a single preset that moves a slider slightly to one side.

So make sure you get your presets from a professional and check that they offer something more complex than what would be achievable by a beginner.

Another thing that you should consider is the type of photography you do. Make sure it matches the “before” image from the preset preview. This will ensure you get results similar to what you’re expecting. Otherwise, the effect might look great on the sample picture but won’t work on your own shots.

Finally, try to find presets that are customizable. This will allow you to create your own style instead of just replicating someone else’s. It will also make your presets more versatile, so you can use them on a wider variety of pictures.

Are presets worth it?

In my opinion, yes. Because they automate a part of your work, presets will save you a lot of time. Also, presets are a good way to keep your style consistent. This is very important for gaining followers, and it lets your clients know what they can expect from you far in advance.

Also, remember: If you want the benefits of presets but feel like none of the presets I’ve suggested fit your vision, you don’t have to use third-party presets. You can always make presets of your own!

The best Lightroom presets: conclusion

Now you know some of the best Lightroom presets available in 2021! Make sure you get the presets that will fit your type of photography and style – and have fun!

Now over to you:

Have you tried presets in the past? Do you have a favorite preset or preset pack? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Best Lightroom presets FAQs

Is it worth buying presets for Lightroom?

Yes. Many professionals offer high-quality presets that are a great investment; they’ll help you achieve the look that you want in your photos.

Do professional photographers use presets?

Yes. Some professionals create their own presets to save time when editing. Others use presets from professional retouchers. Photography and photo-editing are two separate skills and can be performed by two different professionals.

Can you use Lightroom presets for free?

Some of them are free, yes. Others cost money. Before downloading a preset, I recommend checking the preset terms and conditions.

Can I create my own presets?

Yes. A preset automates a set of image adjustments. Any Lightroom post-processing that you do can be saved as a preset and used in other photographs.

Can I use Lightroom presets on the mobile version?

Any preset that you have in Lightroom can be synced across devices. That way, you can download the best Lightroom presets and use them on your computer and your phone.

The post The Best Lightroom Presets in 2021 (13 Beautiful Options) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

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10 Best Cameras for Landscape Photography (in 2021)

14 Jun

The post 10 Best Cameras for Landscape Photography (in 2021) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jeremy Flint.

Deciding on the best camera for landscape photography can be a daunting task. But don’t worry; whether you’re a beginner looking to get your first camera or a more experienced photographer looking for a more dedicated option, we’ve got you covered.

Specifically, we’ll share a list of our top 10 favorite landscape cameras – including options for every budget and brand preference.

Let’s get started.

10 best cameras for landscape photography

How to choose the best camera for landscape photography

When looking for the right landscape camera, what characteristics should you take into account?

Weight

First, the weight of your camera is considerably important. If you are out walking long distances to your chosen location, you don’t want to be trudging for miles with the burden of a heavy camera and lenses in your backpack.

Resolution

For landscape photography, the higher the number of megapixels, the better; enhanced resolution will give your camera the ability to record those extra details and tones.

Also, sensor size is key. The larger the sensor size, the better the image quality (generally speaking).

Build quality

If you are someone who enjoys capturing landscapes in dramatic weather, it is essential that your camera has appropriate weather sealing to keep out the elements and enable you to carry on shooting when it rains.

ISO and IBIS

While a sophisticated autofocus system with quick subject selection and fast shooting modes is not essential, in-camera features such as high-ISO capabilities and in-body image stabilization (IBIS) can certainly make a difference.

For example, impressive high-ISO performance will help you capture more dynamic range in low light – perfect for anyone who likes to shoot the stars, the planets, or the moon.

Camera type

Generally speaking, advancements in technology mean that smartphones, compacts, and bridge cameras are all capable of achieving great landscape photos. But while these are cheaper options, these camera systems are less practical and adaptable than other setups. Many professional and enthusiast photographers choose either a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless body as their go-to landscape photography camera.

Which is better, mirrorless or DSLR? Most DSLR cameras are part of well-established lineups and therefore offer great landscape lenses. Mirrorless cameras are newer to the photography arena and have fewer lens choices available.

Medium format is also one of the best camera formats for landscape photographers, as it provides the very best quality images. However, disadvantages include weight, size, and high prices.

As DSLR, mirrorless, and medium format cameras are often out of reach for beginners and amateurs due to price, a cheaper and more preferred option is the APS-C system, which is lighter and has a smaller sensor system.

Ultimately, which system and camera you choose depends entirely on your personal needs and budget. With these factors in mind, here are some of the very best cameras available for landscape photographers in 2021:

1. Canon 5DS R

The Canon 5DS R is a 50.6-megapixel full-frame DSLR and a fantastic choice for landscape lovers, thanks to its superb image quality and impressive camera build. It is a firm favorite, featuring beautifully detailed files – and when coupled with the classy L-series lenses, it can match the very best high-resolution cameras available (even if the dynamic range is less sophisticated than its newer competitors). For added functionality, you get 61 phase-detection points. And the 5DS R costs less than Canon’s top-end mirrorless camera, the EOS R5.

2. Canon EOS R5

Canon arrived late to the mirrorless game, but the company now offers one of the best cameras for landscape photography. The Canon EOS R5 is the ultimate mirrorless camera, one that packs a punch with an excellent 45-megapixel count, plus it provides brilliant image quality and a wide dynamic range.

There is a growing range of RF lenses that mount directly on the EOS R5, plus you get the added advantage of 8K video. While the electronic shutter takes a bit of getting used to, the advanced weather sealing is fantastic. The EOS R5 does come with a hefty price tag, and it’s a huge investment for someone who simply does landscape photography as a hobby, so if you like the sound of the EOS R5 but don’t have the budget for it, I’d also recommend the EOS R6 (which costs significantly less).

3. Nikon D850

Nikon D850 the best camera for landscape photography

The Nikon D850 comes highly recommended for landscape shooters, offering outstanding dynamic range, excellent (45.6-megapixel) resolution, and a touch-sensitive LCD screen that tilts. The extended battery performance, impressive ISO performance, and high-quality images make the D850 a popular choice for shooting in the great outdoors. It can record up to 9 frames per second, it packs 4K video, and it’s one of the best all-around DSLRs on the market.

4. Nikon Z7 II

The Nikon Z7 II is a stellar camera, and one of the best mirrorless landscape options available in 2021. Specifically, its lightweight build, in-body image stabilization, touchscreen, 45.7-megapixel sensor, impressive dynamic range, and excellent image quality are all beneficial to landscape photographers, assuming you can afford the price.

The Z7 II is highly responsive in the field and has great focusing capabilities in low light. The camera also packs an exceptional electronic viewfinder and superb customizable features.

Note that the Z7 II is a welcome refinement to the already impressive Z7; the second iteration features a dual processor and dual card slots, which are hugely useful for the professional working photographer.

5. Canon EOS 90D

If you are just starting out and do not want to pay for a full-frame camera, you may find the Canon EOS 90D to be a worthwhile choice. Sure, it doesn’t offer that classic full-frame image quality – but the 90D is a very good camera for landscape photography, thanks to a large optical viewfinder, a strong build quality, and a nice 32.5-megapixel APS-C imaging sensor (that will produce some incredibly detailed photographs and video footage). The 90D’s size makes for easy handling and the camera mounts EF/EF-S glass, so there is a huge range of compatible lenses for you to choose from.

6. Nikon D5600

Another great camera choice for those on a budget is the Nikon D5600. For hobbyist landscape photographers, this midrange DSLR has a 24-megapixel resolution and is capable of capturing great images with fine textures and superbly crisp detail. The 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 39-point AF system, and new time-lapse movie mode are great additional features, and the ISO range of 100-25600 ensures low-light landscape scenes are handled with ease. The D5600 has a wide range of interchangeable Nikkor lenses at its disposal, and it’s light and extremely portable, ideal for long walks in nature.

7. Sony a7R IV

Sony a7R IV the best camera for landscape photography

The Sony a7R IV is a superb quality camera that would carry well inside the backpack of any dedicated landscape photographer. Key features include a jaw-dropping 61-megapixel full-frame sensor for optimal image quality, the ability to shoot handheld in low light thanks to an in-body image stabilization system, and an attractive array of lenses from extreme wide-angle to large telephotos. The camera has very robust weather sealing and is notably cheaper than the Canon EOS R5.

8. Sony a6000

Are you a newbie photographer looking to invest in a camera for landscape shooting? Then check out the Sony a6000, the ultimate compromise between power and portability. It’s well priced, shoots quickly with 11 frames-per-second continuous shooting, packs 24.2 megapixels, has a built-in flash, and delivers great images of landscapes in all conditions – making it a great entry-level landscape camera and a solid introduction to the mirrorless market. Autofocus is good and you get great video. The absence of in-body image stabilization, as well as a lower resolution viewfinder compared to its rivals, are justifiable tradeoffs.

If your budget allows for the extra cost, the Sony a6500 is a newer option.

9. Fujifilm X-T4

Looking for a camera with exceptional build quality that doesn’t compromise on color tones and dynamic range? The Fujifilm X-T4 is one of the best all-around options for landscape photographers. The camera looks modern, feels great in the hand, and the lightweight system is a joy to operate. It’s a great choice for buyers needing high megapixels, fast shooting speeds, in-body image stabilization, and 4K video capture. If your budget really is limited, consider its predecessor, the X-T3, which houses an identical sensor and comes at a lower price.

10. Fujifilm X-T200

Fujifilm X-T200 the best landscape photography camera

Here’s my final choice for the best landscape camera: the Fujifilm X-T200. It’s one of the best entry-level mirrorless cameras for landscape photographers and comes highly recommended. The retro style and compact size are a nice touch, while the large 3.5-inch vari-angle touchscreen makes the X-T200 extremely versatile for shooting landscapes. It is lightweight, affordable, and excels in low light. Featuring an APS-C 24.2 MP sensor, the X-T200 can create professional-looking images for landscape photography enthusiasts. For those after an even cheaper model, the X-T100 is a great alternative.

Which landscape photography camera is right for you?

With so many great cameras to consider, it can be challenging to decide which is the best camera to invest in.

While it is justifiable to go for the latest mirrorless cameras, a DSLR still handles well and gives great image quality and overall performance (and APS-C cameras are arguably the best value for money). The Fujifilm X-T200 or Sony a6000 are great options for beginners looking to get their first landscape photography camera – or if you’re after a more dedicated and sophisticated camera, a full-frame model like the Canon 5DS R or the Nikon Z7 II packs a lot of features to suit more experienced photographers.

Above all, remember that the best camera for landscape photography is a personal choice and is relative to your budget and needs!

Now over to you:

Which of these landscape photography cameras do you like the most? Do you have a favorite that didn’t make our list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The post 10 Best Cameras for Landscape Photography (in 2021) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jeremy Flint.

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A Guide to Blurring Backgrounds and Best Lenses to Use

09 Jun

Have you ever wondered just how to create that perfectly blurred background in your photos? You know like the professional shots that have the subject of the image in super sharp focus, but everything else is a blur like you forgot to put your glasses on? While these kinds of photos may look difficult to create there’s actually only a Continue Reading
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The 10 Best Camera Phones You Can Buy in 2021

07 Jun

The post The 10 Best Camera Phones You Can Buy in 2021 appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

the best camera phones you can buy in 2021

If you’re eager to dive into smartphone photography and you’re looking for the best camera phone on the market, you’ve come to the right place.

It can be difficult to decide which phone to buy when there are so many good options. In my opinion, it’s a matter of deciding which features you want to prioritize and ensuring a good balance with the rest of the specs.

For example, if you do a lot of selfies, then you’d want a phone with an excellent front camera. If you like night photography, then you should search for a phone that performs best in low-light conditions. Obviously, you’ll also need to take your budget into account.

On this list, I’ve included the best camera phones for different needs – from the best point-and-shoot camera phones to the best phones for post-processing, from the phone with the best performance overall to the best budget smartphone.

Let’s get started.

1. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

When you buy a camera, you’ll want to be able to change lenses – and that’s the idea behind adding more cameras to a phone: it gives you a wider variety of focal lengths.

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra has an impressive four-camera setup on the back: A wide 26mm camera with 108 MP and an f/1.8 aperture; an ultra-wide 12 MP camera with a 13mm lens and an f/2.2 aperture; a 10 MP telephoto camera with an f/2.4 aperture and 3x optical zoom; and a 10 MP telephoto camera with an f/4.9 aperture and 10x optical zoom. (The front camera is 40 MP, with a 26mm field of view and an f/2.2 aperture.)

All in all, the S21 has a fantastic camera system. As for the display, it has a high-resolution 6.8-inch (17.3 cm) screen. It supports the use of any S Pen, including future releases and options from third-party manufacturers.

While the S21 doesn’t have a microSD slot, it does come with several different storage capacity options: 128 GB and 256 GB.

2. Huawei P40 Pro

Some people are hesitant to buy Huawei phones because they don’t have Google Play services, but photographically speaking, the Huawei P40 Pro is one of the best camera phones on the market.

With the P40 Pro, the slogan “Visionary Photography” is more than a catchphrase; the phone is equipped with a Leica quad-camera, including an ultra-vision sensor that offers beautiful results in daylight and at night.

The P40 Pro features a 12 MP telephoto camera with 50x digital zoom and 5x optical zoom; a 40 MP, ultra-wide Cine Camera; a 12 MP telephoto camera with an f/3.4 aperture; and a 3D depth-sensing camera.

On the front, you’ll find a 32 MP camera with an aperture of f/2.2, plus a depth camera. As for the software perks, the P40 Pro incorporates an AI function that removes unwanted passersby from your picture.

The P40 Pro display is rounded and supports AI gesture control. You can share the screen with your laptop and download content just by touching both devices. And even with the beautiful display, it has excellent battery life.

So if you’re interested in leveling up your smartphone photography, the Huawei P40 Pro is a great pick.

3. iPhone 12 Pro Max

Apple has made a point of staying on top of smartphone photography, and the iPhone 12 Pro Max, with its amazing camera system and quality display, is further proof. It features a 6.7-inch (17 cm) edge-to-edge Super Retina XDR display protected by a ceramic shield.

The iPhone 12 Pro Max has three rear cameras, each offering 12 MP: an ultra-wide 13mm camera, a wide 26mm camera, and a 52mm telephoto camera. The front camera is 12 MP and packs TrueDepth technology (which captures 3D information and is useful for face ID).

The 12 Pro Max supports Apple ProRAW format, and it’s powered by a super-fast A14 Bionic chip. It also offers impressive battery life (so you don’t have to worry about your phone dying in the middle of a photoshoot!), and it’s water resistant up to 6 m (19.7 ft) for 30 minutes.

The iPhone 12 Pro is another excellent camera phone if you’re looking for something a little less pricey – and smaller – than the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The biggest downgrade is the camera sensor size (though the resolution remains the same).

4. Oppo Find X3 Pro

The Oppo Find X3 Pro has a 50 MP ultra-wide camera with an aperture of f/2.2. And thanks to a large sensor, you get brighter pictures with better color depth, ideal for photographs in low light. A second camera packs 50 MP and an aperture of f/1.8.

The X3 Pro also has a microlens with a 60x magnification and an aperture of f/3, as well as a 13 MP telephoto camera with 5x hybrid optical zoom and 20x digital zoom. The smartphone features one of the best night modes in photography and video.

The Oppo Find X3 Pro includes a 6.7 in (17 cm) display that covers the full color gamut and offers 10-bit color depth. Its AI Scene Enhancement reads the scene and automatically shifts tones to fit.

5. Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra

The potent Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is not only great for photography, but also for photo editing. With a 6.9 in (17.5 cm) edge display and an S Pen, you can do precise photo and video editing on the go. And for detail work, you can connect your desktop or TV as a second monitor.

The Note 20 Ultra packs a 12 MP ultra-wide camera, a 108 MP wide-angle camera, and a 12 MP telephoto camera. The latter features a 5x optical zoom and a 50x digital zoom. Plus, it has a laser AF sensor to improve focusing precision and speed.

You get multiple shooting modes such as Food, Night, Hyperlapse, and some extra features like Motion Photos and AR Doodle. In the Single Take mode, you can capture a scene from different angles, formats, and styles with one touch of the shutter.

You can record 8K video and extract any frame as a 33 MP image. The front 10 MP camera has a 26mm lens and an f/2.2 aperture.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there’s also the Galaxy Note 20. It’s slightly smaller (6.7 in/17 cm display) and the camera array is different, but the smartphone is still top-notch.

6. Sony Xperia 1 II

The Sony Xperia 1 II is an excellent smartphone for both photography and videography. For one, it uses the same technology as the Sony Alpha cameras to capture up to 20 frames per second; it also supports Real-Time Eye AF for people and animals.

Battery life is highly improved from its predecessor, so you can enjoy the 4K display without concerns. The screen has a 21:9 ratio, a feature that appeals to those who frequently stream video.

The Xperia 1 II includes three rear 12 MP cameras with different Zeiss lenses: a 24mm wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide 16mm lens, and a 70mm telephoto lens. (The front camera packs 8 MP.)

The smartphone comes with 256 MB of storage and a microSD slot for storage expansion. If you’re a creator who toggles between photography and video, the Sony Xperia 1 II is the best camera phone available.

7. Google Pixel 5

the best budget phone camera Google Pixel 5

In a world where phones keep getting bigger and heavier, the Google Pixel 5 is a refreshing change of pace.

Its design might seem basic compared to its competitors, but it’s lighter and more comfortable to use while still delivering high-quality pictures. Sure, the 6 in (15.2 cm) display might be on the small side, but it comes with great battery life, plus a 90 Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ with three color profiles to choose from.

You get two cameras: a 12.2 MP wide-angle camera with an f/1.7 aperture and a 16 MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture. Unfortunately, the native camera app doesn’t offer Manual mode, but you can adjust the highlights and shadows using sliders. And the Pixel 5 supports HDR but is a little slow when processing it.

The front camera offers 8 MP and an f/2 aperture. In Portrait mode, you can capture subjects with beautifully blurred backgrounds (and you can also add this effect at a later time!).

8. OnePlus 8 Pro

Looking for a smartphone camera that’s both powerful and versatile? The OnePlus 8 Pro is a stellar option.

Battery life is extremely good – it can last for over a day with heavy use (and over two days with light use). Impressively, this doesn’t come at the expense of the display; it’s bright enough to be used in direct sunlight and features accurate colors. Also, the recharging time is quite fast.

The main camera has a 48 MP sensor with great dynamic range and an f/1.8 aperture. You also get an 8 MP telephoto camera, plus a 48 MP ultra-wide camera with excellent macro capabilities.

The front camera is 16 MP, and while the later-released OnePlus 8T may have more cameras, the overall performance of the OnePlus 8 Pro is better.

9. Google Pixel 4A

If you’re not ready to invest in the pricier options from this list, don’t worry – there are some good choices that are also budget-friendly, such as the Google Pixel 4A.

What makes this smartphone special? For one, while you only get a single rear camera, it’s surprisingly great. It packs 12.2 MP, and images are far better than you would expect from reading its specs. The front camera is 8 MP and uses an f/2 aperture.

The Pixel 4A has many of the features on higher-end Google phones, including Live HDR+ (which lets you preview the HDR effect before you take the picture). The display is 5.81 in (14.8 cm) and full HD for a bright picture with realistic colors.

Storage is only 128 GB and the battery life isn’t great – but at such a low price, the 4A remains appealing.

10. iPhone SE

iPhone SE best budget iPhone for photography

For Apple fans after a budget smartphone, the iPhone SE is equipped with a 12 MP, 28mm rear camera and a 7 MP front camera, perfect for spur-of-the-moment shots, portraits, and more.

The SE combines the camera from the iPhone 8 with the software of the iPhone 11. As a result, you get great photographs, plus videos with image stabilization.

The iPhone SE also packs a 4.7 in (11.9 in) HD Retina screen; paired with the A13 Bionic chip, you can expect great battery life. And you still get Portrait mode, including a slider to manually control the blurred background (you also get Portrait Lighting!).

This is the most affordable iOS smartphone yet, and the quality is what you’d expect from a standard iPhone. Yes, the SE has fewer cameras and features, but it offers great value for money.

Best camera phone: conclusion

As you can see, there are many wonderful camera phone options – all of which allow you to capture professional-quality smartphone photography.

So it’s not so much about finding the best camera phone as finding the one that best fits your needs and means.

Now over to you:

Do you have any questions? Which camera phone do you like the best? Which one will you buy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The post The 10 Best Camera Phones You Can Buy in 2021 appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Ana Mireles.

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The Best Camera for Travel Photography in 2021

01 Jun

The post The Best Camera for Travel Photography in 2021 appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Matt Murray.

I love photography and I love to travel, so I often get the question, “What is the best camera for travel photography?”

When I bought my first camera in 1994, I really wasn’t thinking too hard about the decision. Growing up in Australia, I always longed to travel the world. When I was 20 years old, I got my chance – I bought my first camera and my first overseas airline ticket on the same day.

At the time, I wanted a camera that was compact, light, affordable, and weather resistant. I didn’t know much about photography, but I ended up walking out of the duty-free camera store with a Pentax Zoom 90WR. This compact point and shoot traveled with me all over Europe for the next two years and made a ton of memories. It was also my doorway into photography.

Since buying that first Pentax, I have traveled with dozens of cameras – film, instant, and digital. Although technology has changed, what I look for today is the same as what I looked for 25 years ago.

What should you look for in a travel camera?

Here is my list of ideal travel camera characteristics:

Compact and lightweight
An excellent fixed lens (or a good range of lenses available)
A good range of features
Good battery life
Weather resistant
A competitive price

Note that I used the word “ideal,” as there are very few cameras that offer everything on the list. In fact, one of my favorite travel camera and lens combinations is the Fujifilm X-T3 and the Fujifilm 50-140mm lens, and it’s not exactly a pocketable option.

But for this list of best cameras for travel photography, I focused on compact and lightweight models, starting with my number one pick:

1. Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III

The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is the third iteration of a popular point and shoot series from Canon. It’s sleek, it’s stylish, and it almost looks like a mini DSLR.

Many compact cameras have a tiny sensor – one inch or smaller – but not this one. The PowerShot boasts an impressive APS-C sensor, which is one of the biggest sensors offered in a camera so compact. It also features a handy zoom range of 24-72mm and an optical stabilizer for shooting in low light.

The PowerShot is easy to use and produces images with high clarity and outstanding colors. The only downside is the price tag; at around $ 1000 USD, it may be on the high end for some enthusiast photographers.

Pros

Large APS-C sensor
Compact size
Articulating screen

Cons

Premium price

2. Sony RX100 VII

Sony keeps improving the RX100 line, and the VII is their best model yet. It may have a smaller sensor than the Canon PowerShot featured above, but the RX100 VII is still a powerful performer. It boasts impressive autofocus, a flip-screen for vlogging and selfies, a mic socket, and a huge zoom range equivalent to 24-200mm in full-frame terms.

The RX100 VII also borrows tech from Sony’s flagship models, which is why it can shoot up to 20 frames per second with no viewfinder blackout.

If you’re a watersports fan, there’s an added bonus: the RX100 has underwater housing available for surfing, diving, and snorkeling photos. At around $ 1300 USD, the RX100 VII is on the pricier side, but for serious travel photographers, it’s an excellent choice.

Pros

Impressive autofocus
Handy zoom range
Up to 20 frames-per-second shooting
Mic jack

Cons

Expensive for a compact camera
Smaller 1-inch sensor
Battery life could be better

3. Fujifilm X-T30

The Fujifilm X-T30 — The X-T30 has many features of the flagship X-T3, yet it’s lighter and more affordable.

In 2016, I bought a Fujifilm X-T10 as a backup camera for trips to Indonesia and the Faroe Islands. It was so good I couldn’t tell the difference between images shot on the X-T10 and my X-T1.

The X-T30 is the latest Fujifilm model to take the best features from the flagship camera but in a smaller, lighter body. The X-T30 features the same 26-megapixel APS-C sensor as the X-T3 and can shoot up to a whopping 30 frames per second. And like other Fujifilm cameras, the X-T30 has face- and eye-detection autofocus, which is a big help for travel portraits and street shots. It also includes Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations for JPEG files.

You’ll get around 30 lenses to choose from (the hard part is deciding which is the best for you!). My personal go-to lens for travel photography is the XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 lens. While there is no stabilization in the X-T30 body, there is optical image stabilization in the 18-55mm lens, and it delivers the quality you’d expect from much more expensive glass but at a fraction of the cost.

Unfortunately for photographers who like to shoot in tough conditions, the X-T30 isn’t weather resistant – it seems there are some trade-offs for a lighter, less-expensive body.

Pros

Excellent lens lineup from the affordable XC lenses to enthusiast and professional XF lenses
Stunning image quality with a range of JPEG film simulations
Many of the features of the flagship X-T3 model

Cons

No weather sealing
The price point isn’t especially competitive

4. Nikon D5600

This next brand needs no introduction; Nikon SLRs were favored by many famous travel photographers in the 1980s and beyond. The D5600 is the latest camera in Nikon’s midrange APS-C series, and it’s a perfect choice for beginners and enthusiast photographers alike.

The D5600 boasts Nikon’s excellent ergonomics, and the camera feels reassuringly comfortable in your hand, although it’s not as compact as other models on this list. Image quality is superb and low-light shooting is very impressive. Plus, you get a fully articulating screen (for selfies, vlogging, and tough compositions), along with excellent battery life.

Pros

Excellent image quality
Good ergonomics and handling
Good battery life

Cons

No 4K video
Not as compact as other cameras on this list

5. Ricoh GR III

The Ricoh GR III travel camera — Stylish minimalism: the Ricoh GR III.

Ricoh has been producing super-compact GR cameras since the film heydays of the late 1990s. Those classic point-and-shoot GR models were known for their sharp wide-angle lenses and minimalist controls, and the digital line of GR cameras is no different.

The Ricoh GR III is a perfect mix of portability, optical quality, and impressive features. You get a fixed 28mm full-frame equivalent f/2.8 lens capable of producing good images, and four-stop shake reduction that ensures sharp files even in challenging light.

The GR III is often compared to another camera in this list, the Fujifilm X100V. Consider the Ricoh if you prefer a smaller camera with a wider angle of view.

Pros

Truly pocketable
Four-stop shake reduction
Fantastic wide-angle lens

Cons

The straight-out-of-camera JPEGs are not as good as Fujifilm’s
Battery life could be better

6. Sony a6600

The Sony a6600 for travel photography — The Sony a6600 has an impressive spec sheet that includes Real-Time Eye AF.

It’s easy to see why Sony has grabbed a big share of the mirrorless camera market in recent years: the company produces an impressive range of cameras that appeal to professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The Sony a6600 may not have a full-frame sensor like some of its stablemates, but its compact body and impressive specs make it a strong candidate for the best camera for travel photography. The a6600 features a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, along with Real-Time Eye AF for photography and video, plus five-axis optical image stabilization. The 180-degree flip screen also makes the a6600 handy for vlogging and selfies. I do think that the layout and controls could be improved, but it’s one of the only drawbacks to an otherwise excellent camera.

Quick note: if you like the look of the a6600 but you’re on a tighter budget, also consider the a6400. It may not be as up to date as the a6600, but it offers excellent value for money.

Pros

Small and light
Great lens lineup
Real-Time Eye AF

Cons

Handling and ergonomics could be improved

7. Olympus Tough TG-6

Best camera for travel photography: the Olympus Tough TG-6 — Shockproof, dustproof, crushproof, and fogproof: the Olympus Tough TG-6 can handle pretty much anything.

Going on an extreme adventure? The Olympus Tough TG-6 could be the best travel camera for you. This compact point and shoot can withstand a lot of punishment, thanks to its shockproof, dustproof, and crushproof body.

The TG-6 can also work in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius), and it’s fogproof, even during sudden changes in temperature. As I found out on a recent trip to Indonesia – where I was frequently moving from an air-conditioned hotel room to the outside heat and humidity – a foggy camera can be a real inconvenience.

For snorkeling and diving fans, the Tough TG-6 loves being underwater as much as you do. It’s waterproof up to 49 ft (15 m), and it boasts several underwater modes, including a microscope mode that can focus on objects 0.39 in (1 cm) away.

Pros

Super tough
Compact
Affordable

Cons

Only 12 megapixels
More suited to adventurers than enthusiast photographers

8. Fujifilm X100V

I’m a huge fan of the Fujifilm X100 series cameras (I’ve owned three of the five models released over the last decade). Even photographers loyal to other brands buy an X100-series camera as their “take everywhere” body.

The X100V is small and light, yet it features an incredible 35mm f/2 fixed lens. Other useful features include its leaf shutter and built-in neutral density filter. And of course, Fujifilm’s range of stunning JPEG film simulations are ready to use as soon as you turn on the X100V.

The best compact camera ever? The Fujifilm X100V.

While the entire X100 series is great, note that the latest model, the X100V, does have an important improvement over its predecessors: it’s weather resistant. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who shoot in sand, rain, snow, and more.

Pros

Excellent lens
Built-in ND filter
Fujifilm JPEGs
Weather resistant

Cons

Fixed lens
No in-body image stabilization
More expensive than its predecessors

9. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

For travel photographers, there’s a lot to like about the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II. The camera has a stylish design, with an aperture ring on the lens and a shutter speed dial on top of the camera for full manual control.

The Lumix LX100 II sports a fast lens with a handy 24-75mm zoom range. It also features optical image stabilization and can shoot 4K video up to 30 fps.

Although it has a smaller 17-megapixel Four Thirds sensor, the Lumix makes up for this in other ways. It can focus as close as 1.2 in (3 cm), it offers a focus stacking feature, and it even includes the ability to change focus in an image afterward.

Pros

Excellent image quality
Fast lens
Small and compact

Cons

Fixed rear screen
Only 17 megapixels

10. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Olympus has a reputation for making some of the most innovative compact cameras in photographic history. Their mirrorless cameras are no exception, and it’s easy to see why Olympus models have been popular with the travel influencer crowd. I’ve spoken to many people who’ve downsized to Olympus from full-frame systems, and they couldn’t be happier.

The OM-D E-M5 Mark III is one of Olympus’s latest weather-sealed Four Thirds cameras. It’s lightweight, yet it boasts impressive autofocus and excellent image quality. Other features include a fully articulating 3-inch screen, in-body image stabilization, and built-in focus stacking.

Olympus also boasts a wide range of lenses. A perfect choice for a lightweight setup is the 14-42mm EZ lens, though if you want more range, take a look at the 14-150mm.

Best camera for travel photography: the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III — The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a favorite among travel influencers.

Pros

Compact and light
Excellent image quality
Good range of lenses
Weather sealed

Cons

Smaller Four Thirds sensor
Battery life could be better

What is the best camera for travel photography?

Choosing the perfect travel photography camera is a difficult task, and one that depends on many factors. I recommend looking at the list of ideal features offered earlier in this article. Determine what you value most, then evaluate the different cameras I’ve discussed based on those criteria.

So what is the best camera for travel photography? Only you can answer that question! Research different models. And if you need to, go to a camera shop, where you can talk to the staff and hold each camera in your hands. Also try talking to people who own your top picks and ask for their honest opinions. Then, when you’re ready, buy a camera – and hit the road!

Now over to you:

What camera do you currently use for travel photography? Which of the cameras on this list is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The post The Best Camera for Travel Photography in 2021 appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Matt Murray.

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The Best Lens for Street Photography: Top 11 Picks (in 2021)

24 May

The post The Best Lens for Street Photography: Top 11 Picks (in 2021) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Simon Bond.

What’s the best lens for street photography on the market today?

In this article, I’ll share my favorite street photography lenses, including options for all budgets and camera brands. I’ll also explain how you can pick the perfect street lens for your needs – by taking into account important factors such as focal length, sharpness, and low-light performance.

So if you like street photography and you’re looking to buy a new lens to improve your photos, then read on.

people walking on the street — Which direction will you go with your street photography?
Canon 5D Mark II | Canon 50mm f/1.2L | f/8 | 1/800s | ISO 320

1. Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM

best street photography lens Canon 50mm f/1.2

If you’re prepared to pay the price, then the Canon 50mm f/1.2L is one of the best lenses for street photography available today. The large aperture lets you photograph in low-light conditions without needing to boost the ISO, and the optics and build quality are outstanding. The 50mm f/1.2 works well for both street photography and street portraits (i.e., posed portraits with people on the streets), and the standard focal length offers enough reach for intimate compositions.

Low-light performance: Stellar; not many lenses have an aperture as large as f/1.2
Quality: Excellent build, just what you’d expect from a flagship Canon lens
Price: On the expensive side ($ 1399 USD)
Weight: Pretty heavy, thanks to the solid build quality and wide maximum aperture

2. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM

Like the 50mm f/1.2, above, the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM is a great lens to have in your street photography bag – in fact, there are plenty of reasons to buy it over the f/1.2 version. For one, the cheaper price is going to be much more appealing, especially if you’re new to photography and not yet ready to commit to more expensive gear. And the 50mm f/1.8 is also much smaller and lighter than its bulky f/1.2 sibling. While low-light performance isn’t on par with other lenses on this list, you can still count on the 50mm f/1.8 in the shade and at night.

Low-light performance: Pretty good, thanks to a relatively large maximum aperture
Quality: Good, but not as solid as the f/1.2 version (above)
Price: You can pick up this lens for just over $ 100 USD – it’s just about the cheapest lens you can buy
Weight: The size and weight of this lens make it easy to carry around

3. Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM

Those looking for a longer street photography lens could do a lot worse than the Canon 135mm f/2L. At 135mm, you’ll be able to photograph your street scenes from a distance, though the size of the 135mm f/2 makes discreet shooting difficult. It’s a great lens for separating your main subject from a busy background – you can use that extra focal length to compress the scene, and the f/2 aperture helps achieve outstanding background bokeh. And while the 135mm f/2 isn’t as forgiving as a 50mm lens, you can use it in low light, especially at f/2.

Low-light performance: Good for the longer 135mm focal length
Quality: A great build that’s usable in all weather conditions
Price: Reasonable ($ 999 USD) for a high-level lens
Weight: Relatively heavy, but much lighter than a 70-200mm f/2.8

4. Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

Nikon users looking for an affordable street photography lens should consider the 50mm f/1.8G. It offers good quality with an aperture that’s large enough for most situations, plus the 50mm focal length is a street photography classic. Nice build, weight, and size make it a great option for any Nikon street photographer.

Low-light performance: Good for most situations
Quality: Well built
Price: The most affordable lens for Nikon street photographers (that offers a decent maximum aperture)
Weight: The slightly smaller aperture means less lens glass, which means it’s easy to carry

5. Nikon 24-85mm f/2.8-4D

Thanks to its zoom range, the Nikon 24-85mm offers a little more flexibility than other options on this list – and it can double as a general-purpose lens, too. It’s a step up from a kit lens and offers you an aperture of f/2.8 on the wide end. This lens covers the 50mm focal distance that many consider optimal for street photography, and you’ll be able to zoom in and out, a major advantage if you want to frame a photo quickly without needing to move. The major downside is the 24-85mm’s low-light capabilities; the f/2.8 to f/4 maximum aperture just won’t be enough for some situations.

Low-light performance: Decent, but not what you get with a prime lens
Quality: Good overall quality for street photography
Price: In the midrange price bracket (around $ 750 USD). You’re paying for a zoom lens with a large maximum aperture.
Weight: The lens is heavier than a prime lens (a compromise for more focal length flexibility)

6. Sony 35mm f/2.8 Sonnar T FE ZA

While 35mm is on the wider side for street photography, the Sony 35mm f/2.8 is great for those with an APS-C sensor who want to photograph with a 50mm field of view. Build quality is good, so you can shoot in most conditions. And while the f/2.8 aperture isn’t ideal for nighttime outings, it’s more than enough for daytime and twilight street photography.

Low-light performance: It’s going to be more of a challenge to use this lens in dim light, though the wide focal length means you can handhold at a slightly slower shutter speed.
Quality: It’s a nice lens, and its compact size is a definite plus for street photography
Price: In the midrange price bracket ($ 799 USD)
Weight: Coming in at just 4.2 oz (119g), this lens isn’t heavy

7. Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS

If you’re just getting into street photography, you’re a Sony APS-C user, and you want an affordable option, then the Sony 50mm f/1.8 could be the lens for you. The sleek, compact design makes it ideal for the street photographer, and its fast focusing is important for nailing the perfect shot. You get a 75mm effective focal length, which is a bit tight for some photographers – but if you like the narrower field of view, then the 50mm f/1.8 is a perfect choice.

Low-light performance: The larger maximum aperture is good for most low-light situations
Quality: Well built; ideal for both beginners and more experienced photographers
Price: Offers great value (around $ 350 USD)
Weight: Standard primes aren’t usually heavy, and this lens weighs just over 7 oz (200 g)

8. Fujinon XF 35mm f/1.4 R

The Fujinon 35mm f/1.4 is a great lens for any Fujifilm camera user, whether you’re interested in street photography, portraits, or simply creating abstract bokeh. The lens is sharp, has decent focus speeds, and offers an f/1.4 for nice blurred-out backgrounds and nighttime photography. The bokeh effect is especially good (and can produce very nice street photography backgrounds).

Low-light performance: With a 35mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/1.4, this lens is ideal for low-light shooting.
Quality: A solid, dependable lens; will keep up with the fast pace of street photography
Price: Midrange ($ 599 USD), thanks to the wide maximum aperture
Weight: Decent to carry around for a day on the street

9. Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R

The Fujinon 56mm f/1.2 offers a wide maximum aperture, one that’s perfect for low-light street photography, plus it can generate beautiful backgrounds. The focal length is on the long side – on Fujifilm APS-C cameras, it’s an effective 84mm – but you can use it for close-ups, tighter scenics, and intimate street portraits. And for an f/1.2 lens, the price is pretty reasonable!

Low-light performance: You’re not going to get a better lens than this for low-light scenes
Quality: This is a great piece of glass that produces excellent images
Price: Quality lenses cost a lot; this lens will set you back around $ 1000 USD
Weight: It’s heavier than most of the primes on this list, but that’s one of the tradeoffs for such a wide maximum aperture

10. Sigma 35mm f/1.4 ART DG HSM

Sigma has been making excellent lenses with its ART series, and the 35mm f/1.4 is no exception. The lens comes in mounts for all the major camera manufacturers, including Nikon, Canon, and Sony, and while it’s a third-party lens, it does well against the other glass on this list. The large aperture and medium-wide focal length make this an ideal lens for any street photographer, whether shooting in the day or at night. It really is one of the best lenses for street photography available today, and it’s cheaper than the high-end lenses offered by other major manufacturers.

Low-light performance: Strong. This is a fast lens that allows for great images in tricky lighting
Quality: Very nice; Sigma is one of the best third-party manufacturers, and the ART series is top-notch
Price: For around $ 700 USD, you’re picking up excellent glass at a midrange price.
Weight: The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 is on the heavier end of the scale

11. Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2

Looking for a versatile street photography lens? The Tamron 24-70mm offers a similar focal range to a kit lens but with a fast f/2.8 aperture. You get significant flexibility thanks to the wide-to-telephoto zoom capabilities, so you can easily capture street photos that require rapid changes in composition. The downside is this lens’s size and weight (f/2.8 zoom lenses are always on the heavier side). For a zoom lens, the f/2.8 aperture is impressive and will let you blur out backgrounds, though you might prefer a larger-apertured prime lens in low light. Bottom line: The 24-70mm is a good daytime street photography lens, and it’s also perfect for other types of photography, such as travel.

Low-light performance: Not the best; you’ll primarily use this lens in the daytime
Quality: Good quality, with image stabilization compensating for the smaller aperture
Price: On the pricier side ($ 1200 USD), though it is multifunctional thanks to its range of focal lengths
Weight: Pretty heavy, but the zoom range lets you carry one lens rather than several

Factors to consider before buying a street photography lens

All the lenses on this list are great, but the final decision is up to you – and should depend on your shooting style and preferred type of street photography.

So here are the key items to consider when looking for the perfect street photography lens:

Focal length

Many photographers say the best focal length for street photography is 50mm, and 50mm lenses do offer a great perspective (plus, this field of view has been popularized by many famous street photographers). Those who like the 50mm focal length but use crop sensors should go for a 35mm lens.

That said, you don’t need to feel constrained by what has come before, and wider focal lengths are becoming more popular among street photographers.

best street photography lens nighttime — Nighttime street photography needs a larger aperture or a high ISO.
Canon 5D Mark II | Canon 50mm f/1.2L | f/2 | 1/400s | ISO 500

Low-light performance

For moody and dramatic street photos, you’ll often need to shoot in low light. You might find yourself doing street photography in a dingy indoor market, at twilight, or at night – and in all of those situations, a lens with a large aperture provides a major advantage. Yes, modern cameras perform well at high ISOs, which negates the need for a high aperture to some extent. However, a large aperture is still required if you want beautiful bokeh lights in the background of your low-light photos.

Size and weight

To get great street photos, you’ll need to be out walking for much of the day. This means a smaller, lighter setup is a big help. Try to pick just one lens and keep it as light as possible.

Autofocus speed

Street photography is often done in fast-paced and dynamic environments, so if your lens is too slow to focus, you’ll miss a lot of shots. You need a lens that focuses almost instantly, especially if you hope to capture action-oriented street images.

Sharpness

Pretty much all forms of photography require sharpness, and street photography is no exception. Look for a lens that gives you crisp, clear, detailed photos. Some street photographers do like a softer, grainier look, but you can add this in post-processing. Generally speaking, the sharper the lens, the better.

street at night — Canon 5D Mark II | Canon 50mm f/1.2L | f/2 | 1/60s | ISO 1000

Time to choose the best lens for street photography

Now that you’ve finished this article, you should be ready to choose the right street photography lens for your needs.

Remember: the best street photography lens is the one that matches the aesthetic you want to create. So don’t think too much about the popularity of different lenses; instead, ask yourself how they’ll work with your interests and style.

Now over to you:

Which of these lenses is your favorite? Is there one in particular that appeals to you for street shooting? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

the best street photography lens — The best lens for street photography will allow you to get close to the action!
Canon 5D Mark II | Canon 17-40mm f/4L | 24mm | f/4 | 1/60s | ISO 2500

The post The Best Lens for Street Photography: Top 11 Picks (in 2021) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Simon Bond.

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The Best Gear of 2021? TIPA Announces Its Winners

22 May

The post The Best Gear of 2021? TIPA Announces Its Winners appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) has released its 2021 World Awards recipients, celebrating the best cameras, lenses, and other photography gear released over the past year.

Hailed as the “most coveted photo and imaging awards worldwide,” TIPA aims to “both recognize and honor [photography] industry companies and their products.” Winners are chosen by TIPA member magazine representatives, who vote for class-leading gear across dozens of categories, including Best APS-C Camera (Entry-Level, Advanced, and Expert), Best Tripod, Best Telephoto Zoom Lens, and much more.

All the usual suspects took prizes, with Sony grabbing an impressive six awards (including Best Full Frame Professional Camera, Best Photo/Video Camera (Expert), and Best Photo Smartphone). Sigma snagged four awards, Canon and Nikon each snapped up three, while Fujifilm and Tamron took two.

Olympus was notably absent for the second year running, but Pentax made the list – thanks to its K-3 Mark III – for the first time since 2015.

While the TIPA awards can only reveal so much, this year’s awardees do seem representative of the broader camera world – where Sony, Canon, and Nikon dominate headlines, Olympus and Panasonic cater to a niche audience, and third-party manufacturers such as Tamron and Sigma offer highly respected alternatives to Canon, Sony, and Nikon glass.

In fact, out of nine lens awards, six were handed to third-party lens manufacturers. And the trend is hardly new. Last year, six out of eleven lens awards went to third-party manufacturers, and the year prior saw six out of twelve. It highlights the outstanding products offered by “optics-first” companies such as Tamron, Sigma, and Laowa.

Below, I’ve included the full list of awards and the corresponding winners. Give it a read – and once you’re done, leave a comment. Did any equipment deserve to be awarded that was skipped? What do you think of TIPA’s picks? Share your thoughts!

The TIPA World Awards 2021 winners

Best APS-C Camera (Entry-Level): Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Best APS-C Camera (Advanced): Fujifilm X-S10
Best APS-C Camera (Expert): Pentax K-3 Mark III
Best Full Frame Camera (Advanced): Nikon Z6 II
Best Full Frame Camera (Expert): Nikon Z7 II
Best Full Frame Professional Camera: Sony a1
Best Photo/Video Camera (Advanced): Sigma fp L
Best Photo/Video Camera (Expert): Sony a7S III
Best Medium Format Camera: Fujifilm GFX 100s
Best Prime Wide Angle Lens: Laowa 15mm f/4.5 Zero-D Shift
Best Prime Standard Lens: Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM
Best Prime Telephoto Lens: Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM
Best Wide Angle Zoom Lens: Nikon Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S
Best Standard Zoom Lens: Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD
Best Telephoto Zoom Lens: Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD
Best Ultra-Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary
Best Portrait Lens: Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN | Art
Best Macro Lens: Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro | Art
Best Vlogger Camera: Sony ZV-1
Best Professional Video Camera: Panasonic Lumix DC-BGH1
Best Fine Art Printing Solution: Hahnemühle Print – Protect – Authenticate Product Range
Best Photo Printer: Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300
Best Imaging Software Expert: Zoner Photo Studio X
Best Imaging Software Professional: DxO PhotoLab 4
Best Lighting Technology: Profoto AirX
Best Portable Flash: Godox Pocket Flash AD100Pro
Best Tripod: Vanguard VEO 3GO series
Best Tripod Head: Gitzo Ball Head Series 4
Best Gimbal System: Manfrotto Fast Gimboom and Gimbal series
Best Enthusiast Photo Monitor: ViewSonic VP2768a
Best Professional Photo Monitor: LG UltraWide Thunderbolt 4
Best Professional Video Monitor: LG UltraFine OLED Pro
Best Photo Smartphone: Sony Xperia 1 III
Best Power Accessory: NITECORE SCL10 2-in-1 Smart Camera Light & Power Bank
Best Video Accessory: RØDE Wireless GO II
Best Photo Accessory: Hoya PROND GRAD Circular Graduated ND Filters
Best Retail Finishing System: CEWE Photocenter
Best Photo Lab: WhiteWall Room View
Best Photo Service: CEWE Photo Calendar A2 Gold Edition
Best Imaging Computer: Asus ZenBook Pro Duo 15

The post The Best Gear of 2021? TIPA Announces Its Winners appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

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