Over the past years, we’ve made it our mission to cover as much gear as possible and let you know what we think. Everything from cameras and lenses, to backpacks and tripods.
So after all the testing, what are some of our favorite products that we’ve gotten the chance to test out? Read on for our favorites.
Thanks to B&H Photo, Mylio Photos, Radiant Photo, MPB, Lumecube, Platypod and Tamron, the sponsors of this year’s Holiday Gift Guide.
Lowepro Trekker Lite SLX 120
Read review | $83.99; available via B&H
This is an almost minimalist, lightweight, low-profile pack that still somehow holds a full-frame camera and a couple of lenses. I also like how the bag is designed to retain its shape more. This provides easier access and protection for camera gear than a regular waist-pack might provide.
I give Lowepro extra points for having a very visible light-colored interior and yellow zipper pulls. This is a high-quality, no-frills pack that I recommend for photographing while moving around all day.
Best camera for pros: Sony a1
Read review | $6498; available via B&H
If you’re looking for a camera that does it all, look no further. The Sony a1 combines the best of stills and video to create a professional-grade package that you can rely on again and again! Offering a 50.1-megapixel stacked sensor, you’ll get superb clarity and dynamic range in your images. With Real-Time Eye AF, you can be sure that you’ll lock in on your subjects every time.
On the video front, the a1 is equally as impressive, with recording up to 8K at 30p and 4K at 120p. I picked up this camera shortly after it was released, and I have to say, it’s been an absolute joy to use.
Best camera for enthusiasts: Canon EOS R6
Read review | $2499; available via B&H
The Canon EOS R6 is one of the best cameras on the market for those who are serious about their photography and for those who are starting out their professional careers. The camera boasts one of, it not the best autofocus system on the market, a great 20-megapixel sensor that produces detail filled images with tons of dynamic range, a fully articulating screen, class-leading IBIS and plenty of weather sealing. The camera also has some the easiest to use menus out there. Overall, the Canon EOS R6 is a stellar camera that deserves it’s place on our editors choice list.
Best camera for beginners: Fujifim X-S10
For just under $1,000 the Fujifilm X-S10 packs a lot of tech into a small lightweight body. The camera has a vari-angle LCD, a good EVF, IBIS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image sharing, and, of course, the fantastic 26.1 Megapixel X-Trans sensor.
The images that come out of the X-S10, both RAWs and JPEGs sing. You won’t be disappointed. The design of the X-S10 is also pleasing and the controls are easy to learn. This is without a doubt, the best entry-level camera that you can currently get your hands on. If you’re ready to step up from your smartphone, this is the camera to do it with.
Best camera accessory: Datacolor Spyder Checkr Photo
Read review | $99.99; available via B&H
Overall, the Datacolor Spyder Checkr Photo is an excellent tool for those who need to ensure that the colors they work with are accurate. The Checkr Photo is not a tool that the average everyday snapper would need. However, if you’re a fashion photographer, an event or wedding photographer, a portrait photographer or a photographer who works exclusively in a studio, the Datacolor Spyder Checkr Photo is a tool you’ll likely find valuable.
Best computing accessory for beginners: One by Wacom Creative Pen Tablet
Read Review | From $49.95; available via B&H
While my experience with the One by Wacom is strictly for photo editing, I think it would be a great tool for learning other artistic methods. I don’t think experienced photo editors will find that it has enough functionality for what they do.
If you’re just starting to learn how to edit images, this will be a great addition to help you step up your game. You’ll likely find it more natural than using a mouse or touchpad.
Best fixed lens camera: Ricoh GR III
Read review | $896.95; available via B&H
The Ricoh GR III is hands down the best camera you can put your hands on if you’re a modern street photographer. This compact camera can easily slip inside your pocket so you can take it anywhere with minimal fuss. Incredibly, Ricoh managed to stuff a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor and IBIS into this tiny camera.
The images you can produce with the 28mm equivalent lens will blow your mind and the JPEGs that the camera spits out will leave you speechless. Tack on the fact that this camera features snap-focus, which is one of my favorite features in any camera I’ve ever used and you have a pocket powerhouse that will let you be creative no matter where you want to go. At under $900, this camera is a serious bargain. See what all the fuss is about in our full review.
Best “fun” accessory: 35mm Film Rocks Glass Sets
$160; available via Photogenic Supply Co.
We’re big fans of whiskey (who isn’t), and these 11oz Rocks / Whiskey glasses with a genuine used 35mm film canister are quite the treat. Coming with four custom-made wooden camera aperture coasters, you’ll impress your fellow photographers when you gather for a drink.
Best mobile device: iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max
Read review | Starting at $999; available via Amazon
The best iPhone yet is here, and it includes a plethora of photo and video upgrades! Capture the tiny world around you with Macro mode, or create the next Oscar-winning film using Cinematic mode. Updated cameras means better performance in low light, and best yet, it’s all in a single device that fits in your pocket!
Best lens for E mount: Sony 50mm f/1.2 G Master
Read review | $1998; available via B&H
They said a Sony f/1.2 lens couldn’t be done. Well, here it is, and Sony is proving all the naysayers wrong. The 50mm f/1.2 GM lens is absolutely gorgeous, creating breathtaking bokeh with a fast autofocus and superb sharpness. For anyone looking to upgrade to a better 50mm, you simply can’t get much better than this if you use a Sony camera.
Best lens for E and L mount: Sigma Contemporary series
Read review: 24mm f/3.5, 35mm f/2, 65mm f/2 | $539, $639, $699
Sigma’s I series lenses turned heads when they hit the streets. These prime lenses are part of Sigma Contemporary line, however they feature a premium all-metal build, some weather sealing, an aperture control ring, and stunning optics. We have reviewed the Sigma 24mm f/3.5 DG DN ($539), the 35mm f/2 DG DN ($639) and the 65mm f/2 DG DN ($699) and we were blown away by their optical performance and premium feel. They’re available for both Sony E mount and L mount cameras.
Best lens for E and XF mount: Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3
Read review: E mount or XF mount | $699; available via Tamron
Tamron has proven with the 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 that it can produce high-quality optics, even for APS-C sensors. This lens provides a versatile look at the world, perfect for anything from travel to capturing kids’ sports. The autofocus is quick and accurate, and the picture quality exceeds expectations!
Best lens for Micro Four Thirds: OM SYSTEM 20mm f/1.4 PRO
If the first lens from OM SYSTEM is anything to go by, the future is bright for fans of the company formerly known as Olympus. This 40mm equivalent fast prime is a stunner.
The lens is razor sharp at f/1.4, it renders gorgeous colors, and the bokeh it produces is nice and smooth. To top it off, it has pro-grade weather sealing. blazing fast autofocus motors and a minimum focusing distance of just 9.8 inches. I haven’t been this excited about a lens in a long time. If you shoot with Micro Four Thirds cameras you need to check this lens out.
Best lens for RF mount: Canon 50mm f/1.8
Read review | $199; available via B&H
An honest to goodness nifty fifty, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 is one of the only Canon RF mount lenses that has brought a genuine smile to my face. This isn’t to say other RF lenses are bad, they’re not, but the RF 50mm just lets you go out and enjoy your photography.
The lens is incredibly small just like the old DSLR version. It’s very light, the optics are fantastic for the price and it actually has some character! A rarity in most modern lenses. If you own a Canon mirrorless camera and you don’t own this little gem, you’re really missing out on something special.
Best lens for Z mount: NIKKOR 14-24 f/2.8 S for Z mount
Read review | On sale for $2196.95; available via B&H
The Nikon wide-angle shows the world how wide-angles should be. Beautiful optics, snappy and reliable autofocus and the details that matter. The NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8 lens for Z mount cameras is an absolute joy to use, whether you’re capturing real estate, architecture or landscapes.
Best light: Godox V1
Read review | $159; available via B&H
A flash that I use on a daily basis for portraits, product photography and more, the Godox V1 is easily one of the best flashes you can get. It’s unqiue roundhead design opens up a lot of options thanks to the magnetic mount that surrounds it. You can quickly attach diffusers, color gels, grids and more.
The build quality is fantastic, the rechargeable battery is good for over roughly 400 full power flashes per charge, and the quality of light is great. With the consistent output you know what you’ll get every time you use it. You can even use this flash off camera when you purchase an X2 remote trigger for your camera brand. The flashes and triggers are available for Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony. Don’t let the low price fool you, this is one serious flash that will open up many creative doors for you.
Best software: Capture One 23
Read review | $99; available via DxO
DxO PureRAW has quickly become one of our favorite pieces of software in 2021. Tasked with capturing photos in dark, outdoor environments, with little to no light, DxO PureRAW has come through time and time again. It’s not only taken care of the noise in images, but it’s also performed lens and color corrections for a more accurate picture. This software will pay for itself 10 times over again; we can’t recommend it enough.
Best storage device: SanDisk Professional 2TB Pro-Blade Transport
Read Review | Starting at $229.99; available via B&H
The SanDisk Pro-Blade Transport and SSD Mag external drives are lightweight, compact and easy to use. For the traveler looking to carry less to the photographer looking to add external storage at home, it’s an innovative system that works well.
Best tripod Accessory: Platyball
Read Review | from $299; available via Platypod
The Platyball marks Platypod’s first-ever ball head. The company promises supreme ease of use and ultimate flexibility. Whether you’re photographing architecture, landscapes, portraits or nightscapes, the Platyball is a great option for any photographer.
Best video accessory: Manfrotto Gimbal MVG-220
Read review | $287.99; available via B&H
Are you ready to up the production quality of your videos? If so, you need to check out the Manfrotto MVG220 Gimbal. This 3-axis stabilizer will work with most camera and lens combos that weigh less than 4.85 lbs. It’s easy to balance your gear, the touchscreen menus are easy to navigate and use, and the included briefcase handle makes it comfortable to hold.
The rechargeable battery is good for seven hours of use and the built-in modes for Instagram and TikTok creators will surely please. I have used this gimbal extensively and I can say that I have been nothing but pleased with it.
