Photo Accessory Reviews

Vanguard, one of our favorite photo accessory manufacturers, has a slug of new stuff you should know about. Why do we favor Vanguard? In addition to their impeccable high quality, Vanguard creates and supervises the concept, design, manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sales of every product they sell—unlike many other camera gear wholesalers. This means the price you pay at your local photo retailer or when you order directly from Vanguard tends to be below market—saving you money and delivering greater value. And we're all in when it comes to getting more for your money.

Many photographers routinely create images that are good technically and in every other way, but are still about average. In many instances, you can transform your photography skills from typical to exceptional with the right accessory. Besides that, here at Shutterbug we really love photo accessories. Who doesn't? Here are a half-dozen that we especially like.

Exactly what is a Platypod Handle? It's a grip for vloggers. It's a tripod tool: a camera riser. It's a versatile attachment point for lighting paraphernalia, microphones, monitoring gear and other accessories. It pairs perfectly with any Platypod tripod alternative and the Platypod Grip ballhead. It's the brainchild of highly respected NJ physician and brilliant inventor, Dr. Larry Tiefenbrunn, CEO at Platypod Pro LLC.

Looking for a versatile, expandable backpack for photo, video, and drone gear? One that’s comfortable to wear, affordable, and keeps your equipment intelligently organized? Check out the new OneMo 2 camera/drone backpack from PGYTECH.

Using a hard shell case to protect sensitive camera gear has its advantages—until you try to carry it for a few miles over rough terrain. So professional photographer Laurens Parsons, founder of RucPac, invented the Hardcase Strap system that effectively turns your hard-sided case into a backpack. This is just one of the many useful and innovative products in the RucPac photo accessory stable.

3 Legged Thing (3LT) just announced the Charles 2.0, a new, more budget-friendly tripod in their Pro Range lineup, and Shutterbug had a chance to evaluate a sample for several weeks prior to introduction.

WotanCraft, maker of handsomely designed camera shoulder bags, photo backpacks and accessory pouches, recently introduced a lineup of finely crafted leather camera neck straps and wrist straps. They’re all available now in a variety of colors and styles, including a series that features Peak Design Anchor Links.