So Christmas is coming and we all like to think about new gear this time of the year. There have been some very exciting releases in our industry during the year and I thought I would make my own wishlist — with some things that I own and like and some others that I’d really like to try. Give it a look and let me know what you think:
Mobile:
This is a cute little lens for your phone that creates sort of a radiant blur effect in your pictures. It comes with an app that allows you to place the spot of focus wherever you want in the image and it’s a pretty fun gift on this holiday. Also, because it’s small, makes for an excellent stocking stuffer.
Want to transfer all your photos, videos and files from your phone to your tablet and computer? The iXpand Flash Drive is the best solution for that. Also a good stocking stuffer because it’s so small and light.
Grip & Shoot is an accessory for your iPhone that lets you control your phone via bluetooth while providing for a better grip while you take photos or video. You can also remove the stand and use it as a tripod adapter.
Cameras:
Hasselblad’s new camera and CMOS sensor are a must. You can now shoot medium format in high ISO and still have an amazing image quality.
Lenses:
Whenever I’m shooting 35mm, this is my wide angle lens of choice. I own one and my copy is very sharp, fast and extremely reliable — three characteristics that are appreciated when you need to get the job done no matter what.
Lighting:
KICK is a LED light. But not any LED light. This is a programmable and adjustable one. It comes with an app for your smartphone and can replicate colors and light effects you see around you or from videos on your phone. You can even link several KICKs wirelessly and control them all on your phone. Another pretty cool and small gift I wouldn’t mind having on my stockings.
Another very cool light source. Small and portable, yet powerful and versatile. It can shoot flash (with adjustable flash speed from 1/8000 to 1 second) or continuous light, so it’s great for both stills and video.
LED lights are awesome, but sometimes you just need some more power while shooting on location. Enter Dynalite’s Baja 4. It is a 400 Ws portable strobe that can work both on AC or DC power, so it’s perfect to use outside.
Storage:
G-Technology has some amazing storage solutions and this is one of the best. It connects via Thunderbolt technology and takes two separate hard drives, making it the perfect tool to store your files and backups.
When you work in Digital Photography you produce lots and lots of big files on a daily basis. Those files need to be stored somewhere. And then you need to have backups, just in case. And that’s exactly why you would want this hardware RAID system; you can configure the RAID mode according to your needs and create backups for your files easily.
If you’re like me and travel a lot, you’ll probably want one of these: It’s a USB external drive, compatible with every laptop, making it easy for you to store your files while traveling.
Also, G-Technology is having a competition! Enter for a chance to win a G-Dock or a G-Drive. More info here.
SanDisk Extreme PRO SDHC 512 GB
In a world where digital files are getting bigger and bigger, we need cards that are big and fast enough. This is the biggest and fastest there is.
Software:
Macphun makes some really cool apps that can be installed as standalone apps or as Photoshop/Lightroom/Aperture plugins. I’m a huge fan of their Tonality app particularly.
Build albums quickly and easily with this intuitive software.
Other:
Ever heard of The Tutu Project? BlackRapid partnered with them and is now selling the BlackRapid Kick pink. $10 of every purchase will go to the Carey Foundation, who supports women and men diagnosed with breast cancer.
You probably already know the GoPro. This is their latest model, featuring 4K video and 12MP photos. If you’re into video and usually hang out in some extreme conditions, this is probably right for you.
I’m a huge fan of reflectors; they’re lightweight, easy to carry around and amazing tools that allow you to control the light. The Omega Reflector, by Westcott takes reflectors to another level, by introducing a unique design with a removable center and allowing for an extra degree of creativity.
Looking for a big, trustworthy, rolling case for your lighting gear? Look no more. ThinkTank has been creating some amazing camera bags for years and this is no exception.
Having music while shooting on location helps keeping everyone happy on set but sometimes it’s hard to have powerful enough speakers that can produce a nice and clear sound for long periods of time. Anker solved this issue with their portable speaker. Just connect it to your phone or computer via bluetooth and get things going.
This little device basically allows you to charge your phone/tablet anywhere and everywhere. Very useful when you’re traveling. A must have for me.
Another great option for traveling photographers/videographers. This slider compacts down to a very small box, making it easy to transport, and easily supports your HDSLR or most high-end pro cameras.
Syrp is a company from New Zealand where design and technology get together to create tools for film makers.
I’ve been using 3 Legged Thing tripods for a while now and never felt disappointed. They’re very stable, compact and reliable. This new one can hold up to 10kg and comes with an Air Head and a built-in detachable monopod.
If you want your post-production to be consistent, you must calibrate your monitor(s). The Spyder4Elite is the only calibrator in the market that allows you to calibrate your computer monitor, TV, iPad, iPhone and projector.
Portrait Box by Koylab
Another good thing to get yourself or a friend is the Portrait Box. Choose your favorite images of the year and print them in high quality paper with a beautiful finish.
This is a very versatile thing to have in your studio. Obviously it’s mainly used to place your computer and accessories when shooting tethered but it can work as a multipurpose workstation.
They’re having a Holiday promotion until December 24, so tune in if you’re looking for a good deal.
They’re having a Holiday promotion until December 24, so tune in if you’re looking for a good deal.
Last but not least, some fun. Ever wanted to make ice cubes that look like cameras, lenses or flashes? Now you can!
Also important
FilmicPro is having a contest with some really cool prizes, by 3 Legged Thing, Aviator Camera Gear, Think Tank Photo, among others. And I’m one of the judges, so make sure you drop by the website and read all the info about it. And don’t forget to participate!
Have a nice Holiday everyone. And a very happy New Year.
0 likes