Lens News

Gear isn’t the most important thing when shooting landscape photos, but it does matter. In particular, choosing the right lens can make your job easier as a photographer.

If you’ve ever wondered whether newer and, typically, more expensive versions of lenses are that much better than their predecessors, the below video is a fun comparison. In the clip, swimwear and lingerie photographer Anita Sadowska compares the new Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens from this year to the older “Mark I” version.

Because Amazon is one of the world’s largest marketplaces for digital camera gear, checking out the best sellers in photo related categories provides a sense of what’s popular—and maybe even a few surprises.

(Editor’s Note: Exploring Light is a monthly Shutterbug column featuring tips, tricks, and photo advice from professional photographers in Canon Explorers of Light education program. This month's column is by Bob Davis, with great tips for shooting sharp photos of wildlife and birds in flight.

Sigma offers a series of seven compact prime lenses in their Contemporary lineup ranging from 20mm f2 to 90mm f2.8 that they designate as the I Series. Compatible with Sony E and Leica L mount systems, the lenses feature predominately metal construction, superb build quality and a high class look of a higher priced optic. They feel good in the hand and deliver outstanding results.

We often refer to French optical specialist Mathieu as a “weird Lens guru” because he always has a few oddball tricks up his sleeve. Sometimes his videos are about adapting cheap vintage lenses to modern digital cameras, while other times he reveals a fun-and-wacky DYI project.

Photographers tend to be gadget freaks and love useful accessories. The problem is there’s some great “secret” stuff out there from small companies without marketing budgets to bring them to your attention.