Photo Accessory News

Binoculars make great gifts, but navigating the styles, descriptions, specifications and nomenclature can be dizzying. How does an 8x42 compare to a 7x50, and why are some models $999 while others are $99? Here’s a sensible (and short) guide to buying binoculars. 

If you’re one of those photographers who thinks handheld light meters are relics from the bygone film era, think again. These powerful tools are just as important in the digital age as they’ve ever been.

If there’s one photo accessory that’s guaranteed to improve your results, especially when shooting with long lenses and under low-light conditions, it has to be the often-overlooked tripod. In the video below photographer Phil Steele explains how to choose the right tripod for your needs and how to use it properly.

Fotodiox Pro has introduced an assortment of "Factor" lights that let you achieve studio-style results with no hot spots and a single, clean shadow. Designed for both spot illumination and area lighting, the Factor Series includes nine models in a variety of sizes and shapes.

There’s something here for everyone this week. We look at a retro tripod from a famous filter maker, a messenger bag from a famous tripod maker, a lens case from my favorite photo backpack maker and a new circular polarizing filter from a not-so-famous accessory maker—plus a knockout protective case for your MacBook. 

This January issue’s theme was outdoor photography and other than architectural interiors and studio photography, more images are probably captured out of doors than indoors. This column’s focus is on camera bags for landscape, nature, and wildlife shooters, whose needs are different from their urban counterparts. Kelly Moore, for example, manufactures fashion bags (see the December 2016 Geared Up column) and offers the beautifully crafted Woodstock Backpack ($229) that’s probably better suited for Rodeo Drive than Jellystone Park.