Photo Accessory News

One of the first characteristics many photographers consider when evaluating a lens is how it renders out-of-focus portions of an image. Often referred to as background blur or bokeh, this attribute imparts a unique look and feel to an image that can be very visually appealing.

Looking for that perfect gift for the photographer in your life—or yourself? The Click-Bit Photo Tracker uses Fuzzy Logic and IAI* to track every photo you take. I bought two—one for each arm. Here're the details of my personal experience. And BTW, in case you can't tell, this isn't an ad - it's a joke.

Instead of visions of sugarplums, it’s gadgets, gizmos, and software dancing through digital photographers’ heads during the holidays. Presented for your approval is a collection of fun and affordable tools to put a smile on your face and make imaging next year easier and more creative. You can use this column as a shopping list for your favorite photographer or grab a Sharpie and circle the goodies you want and leave it near where your spouse eats his or her Cap’n Crunch. It’s worked for me.

Remote viewing and shutter release capability opens up a host of picture opportunities, from working high atop camera platforms from ground level to very low-level shooting without muddying your clothes (given your camera lacks an articulating monitor) to placing your camera in spots and being able to view and shoot without your being right behind the viewfinder. Many photographers routinely work with radio triggers for flash, especially in studio environments where the lights are set in position and photographer and model or subject move. The Hähnel Inspire adds to the mix with remote shutter release and viewing in one.

Most experienced landscape photographers consider a bombproof tripod absolutely essential. But when you combine the considerable weight of this accessory with the heft of a full pack, you end up with a heavy and cumbersome load for a full day of shooting in the field.

Hands on with a Hasselblad X1D II 50C medium format mirrorless camera, Hasselblad 24mm f/4.8 HCD wideangle lens and the enigmatic Hasselblad XH Converter 0,8. Does this change our attitude toward converter lenses? Continue reading to find out.  

Selfie sticks have, so far, been seen as somewhat frivolous and narcissistic photo accessories. But now a very big name in photography has gotten into the selfie game. The new Nikon N-MP001 Selfie Stick is designed for use with Nikon's Coolpix cameras -- and other compact digital models -- and collapses down to just 7.28 inches to fit easily in your purse or backpack.