What meets the casual eye regarding monopods is one tripod leg with a 1/4 "-20 screw at the top. However, those who are familiar with the monopod's unique benefits, and are properly versed in its technique, know that its beauty is more than...

Generally, the one major difference that makes any photo more interesting than a mere snapshot is paying careful attention to the surroundings and subsequently moving in for a closer, more detailed view of the subject. The latter improved camera technique...

In the last several decades I have glanced at and often closely looked over literally hundreds of different equipment carrying bags at dozens of trade shows in this country and at the largest one of all, photokina in Germany. In addition, I have tested at...

Individuals who hike, climb, bike, or are involved in any similar type of outdoor activity often like to have a camera along to record the event. Carrying a camera on a conventional neck strap is not practical because the weight of the camera causes it to...

Today's highly-electronic cameras and flash units all require good, reliable batteries to keep their components functioning properly. Most modern cameras have an LCD readout that performs a battery check when first switched on, then provides a...

Of all the articles that I have written for Shutterbug, there is one topic that continually generates mail from readers. Whenever I have mentioned my "homemade battery packs" for Vivitar 283 and 285 flash units, the mail pours in. Sick of poky...

Although we tend to take them for granted, batteries are an integral part of photography. Virtually every camera developed in the last 10 years becomes merely a paperweight without voltage to keep its mechanisms ticking. Unlike the previous generation which required power for little more than...