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  • The Daily Edit – Perrin James – A Photo Editor

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    Photographer: Perrin James
    Freediver: Kimi Werner
    Photo Editor: Jenning Steger

    Heidi: This stunning cover image intersects magic, nature, and those who respect her. – tell us the backstory around how you and Kimi met this moment?
    Perrin: Kimi and I were invited on a bit of a reunion trip with our good friend Edmund Jin, We had all traveled extensively for a few years together and we wanted to revisit some of our adventures. We were about 100 miles from the mouth of Isle Magdaleña. Every year there’s a sardine run that is usually met with striped marlin as the main predatory fish. But this year was a transitional year from El Niño to La Niña, and the ocean seemed to have exploded with a few different types of baitfish and millions of mahi mahi. We swam playfully into the bait balls until that mahi fish crashed into us. At one point a bull mahi caught me right below the eye and now I have the cool little scar to show from that one. Kimi was filling her spearfishing cup and preparing to bring back a bunch of Mahi for Buddy and Turk. I swam over and asked if could shoot this particular baitball. It was a different type of mackerel. This vortex of fish was just so beautifully formed. She swam up through the bait and came out with two fish one in each hand. We laughed so hard I think I drank some saltwater.

    How many covers have you two collaborated on?
    Perrin: This is our second Patagonia cover. I think we’ve gotten close to 15 though in the outdoor space, it’s been a beautiful journey of creating, and ocean time.

    Patagonia Cover, 2016


    BTS of their first Patagonia cover, published in 2016

    Nature reigns supreme as the ultimate producer. How do you know when you got the image and not overstay your welcome?
    Perrin: For this particular situation I think the bait fish were actually incredibly happy to have us. The moment we would swim away the ongoing feeding frenzy would continue. I feel that with my dive buddies and best friends we have language underwater that really doesn’t rely on speaking. it’s mostly hand gestures and facial expressions and occasional underwater grouper calls (a grunting noise that can be heard underwater. As soon as I shot this image I broke the silence communication and just yelled WE GOT IT.

    How did this photo come across your desk at Patgonia and ultimately make it as the coveted cover placement?
    Jenning: I received a text from Kimi post dive saying she and Perrin shot some on point Patagonia photos that she thought I would love. It was a few weeks by the time Perrin got home from Mexico and sent me the submission. Its always a treat when we receive Perrin photos as he is a remarkable underwater photographer and we love all things Kimi. I renmbember excitingly downloading his photo folder, after a quick glance I knew what they (Kimi, Perrin + Mother Nature) managed to create + capture was something special. I shared my top selects with the Patagonia Journal (catalog) team who shared the same thoughts I did that the image set was solid and captured the essence of Patagonia photography. My department manager Heidi Volpe helped secure the coveted journal cover. I emailed Perrin + Kimi and told them to keep the photo on ice for us, since the journal is print the lead times are longer but I was jockeying for some prime real-estate for the bait ball story + images and to please be patient as I pushed photo thru the process to image final.

    What does nature tell you about women in the water?
    Perrin: Women have a special place in the ocean. It’s always interesting the way whales and other cetaceans or even predatory fish that would typically be shy, always seem to swim directly up women in the ocean.

    What cues do you tap into when searching for a potential location to free dive?
    There are a number of factors that play into looking for a new freedive spot. I think the biggest one is the underwater architecture of that location and how the tide affects that location. It’s also seasonal just as surf follows the seasons, so do fish. Everything is timing ( at least for the best spots).

    Once you find the spot, what does your prep look like?
    I like to let people go first and watch the drift. Then work with the captain on how we can improve the angle of the current or the distance from the pinnacle or point of interest. If the current is fast you need a greater distance to breathe up enough before your dive.

    How does your creativity differ in these two worlds: immersion in the ocean vs terra firma?
    Oh I really do my best to do everything in the ocean or around it. I’m not very good at being on dry land for too long.

    Photo: Nick Kelly


    All black and white photos: Katharine Kollman


    Photo: Geoff Coombs
    After so many years in the water, what are the most drastic changes you’ve seen, what can everyday people think about or what behaviors can we change to avoid further ocean impact?
    I always think about the saying (well you should have seen it in my day). that is usually coming from much older people. I feel that I watched it change drastically from a kid till now and again once I started traveling oceans and revisiting places only a few years later.

    Single use plastic is an easy one but also just being conscious of the type of fish you are consuming and where it came from or more importantly how it was caught.
    The ocean faces challenges that are almost without borders however. I think there needs to be more attention addressing factory fishing and the global fishing fleets that are quite literally emptying the oceans.

    You’ve contributed to several films around the ocean as a healer, how did you expand as a creative after working on those two projects?
    I think my style of work has always leaned towards the darker more mysterious parts of the ocean showing beauty in the shadows and unknown. After working on Learning to Drown and Daughter of the Sea I think the importance of telling these types of stories was just amplified. The ocean helped me through the darkest parts of my life and I hope it can help others as well.

    What ocean-based projects are you working on now?
    We are just going into post production on the story of my friend Vaimiti, Its kinda a surf story but highlighting the cultural similarities and hardships that Hawaiians and Tahitians share through colonization and loss of identity and culture.

    The next project is a Freedivers journey through a traumatic brain injury.



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  • The 10 Best Travel Tripods Of 2024

    The 10 Best Travel Tripods Of 2024

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    Tripods used to be bulkier and heavier once upon a time and photographers had to carry these heavy accessories during their travels and it made the whole process a bit stressful. Travel tripods were made to make this process easier, so they can be carried in a backpack, without spending too much energy. They also do not take up much space since they can be folded into small bags.

    Travel tripods are required mostly when you are travelling for landscape and astrophotography. They can also be great accessories when families and friends want to capture group photos and the photographer needs to be in the frame. They are also good for solo travellers who want their self portraits taken in outdoor locations where they travel.

    If you are planning to buy a travel tripod, check a few factors before making the decision.

    1. Weight And Portability: You are purchasing a travel tripod because you wish to carry it around when travelling without much hassle. They also need to fit on a backpack or a camera bag that you will be carrying. So check for ones that are lightweight and foldable or collapsible to smaller sizes, so it is easier to carry along during your travels.
    2. Maximum Load Capacity: Some tripods can be too light and flimsy that they can get knocked over easily or blown over by a small wind. Besides, they may not be able to hold the weight of the camera-lens combination that you carry along. You need to check the specifications to see if the tripod can carry the camera and lens combination that you wish to carry along during your travels.
    3. Height: The tripod needs to help the photographer capture a scene from any angle or perspective they wish to. It could be a high one or a very low one. Each tripod comes with specifications or features that may be slightly or a lot different from the other. Check how tall the tripod can be extended or how low it can be collapsed to get the required shots.
    4. Material: Tripods become heavier or lighter based on the material used to manufacture them. Older tripods used to be made of steel or aluminium and they were quite heavy to carry around. Travel tripods and other bigger traditional tripods are now made with carbon fiber and this makes them quite light and easy to carry around.
    5. Stability: A tripod needs to be stable in any terrain and weather conditions. A lot of the remote locations can be quite windy and nights can especially be windier than the days in certain locations. Research about your tripod and purchase one that has features to keep it stable in all conditions.
    6. Budget: If you have a set amount that you are looking to spend on a tripod, check for tripods that have satisfactory features based on the above suggestions and then look for one that suits your budget.
    7. Additional Features: Since mobile photography has become very popular in the recent years, some tripod manufacturers add some accessories along with their tripods like a mobile holder, etc. Some tripods have the feature to use them as a monopod. If you are someone who would be interested in any of these features, check these before making a purchase.

    Pro Tip: Even if you use a tripod for stability, there are times when camera shakes can be induced when releasing the shutter button. It is good practice to use a remote or cable release to eliminate camera shake and capture sharp images.

    travel tripod golden hour best budget camera for wildlife photography
    Photo by Joshua Woroniecki

    Some of the most popular brands of tripod, known for their quality and reliability are:

    1. Manfrotto
    2. Gitzo
    3. Benro
    4. MeFoto
    5. Joby (known for flexible and compact tripods)
    6. Sirui
    7. Vanguard
    8. Peak Design (known for innovative tripod designs)
    9. K&F Concept

    We have included 10 tripods that include a range based on weight, affordability, load, performance, etc., so there is one for every photographer and photography need. Check out this video by pro photographer David Manning to learn more about some of the most popular travel tripods:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFDUwC_zgbc

    Here are some of the 10 best travel tripods that you can check out on Amazon.

    This is a list of prices you should check out and see which one is in line with your budget:

    K&F Concept 64 Inch Manfrotto Befree Advanced Zomei Z699C Peak Design Travel Tripod SmallRig 71 Inch Benro Rhino Series FRHN24C Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit GEEKOTO 77 Inch 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0
    $89.99 $234.99 $119.99 $397.69 $55.92 259.95 $289.99 $79.95 $69.99 $199.99

    Best Travel Tripods In 2024

    K&F Concept 64 inch/163cm Carbon Fiber Camera Tripod

    k&f concept carbon fiber camera tripod best budget cameras for wildlife photography
    Photo on Amazon

    This is a lightweight, and affordable tripod made of carbon fiber. It weighs only 1.14kg, which is perfect for travel photographers to carry around. Here are its main features:

    • The Ball Head can be rotated to any angle you want and this helps to use your camera without any problem for unique perspective shots.
    • The tripod can be extended to a height of about 162cm and can be folded to about 41cm. This makes it a very compact and portable tripod for travel photographers.
    • This tripod is well built and can be used with most cameras in the market. However they may be a bit shaky when extended to the longest end.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Great travel Tripod Reviewed in the United States on June, 2024

    Folds down all enough to fit sideways in my checked luggage. Was very handy for sunset pictures from land or deck of a River Cruise Long Boat.

    Manfrotto Befree Advanced Twist Camera Tripod Kit

    manfrotto befree advanced twist camera tripod kit best budget wildlife lens
    Photo on Amazon

    This tripod is most commonly used by many photographers who travel a lot because of its neat, compact design and portability. The tripod is very easy to set up and has a maximum height of 59 inches, a minimum height of 16 inches and weighing about 1.6 kg.

    Pros:

    • This tripod is travel friendly and popular for its build, portability and stability and can be carried easily in your backpack.
    • It is made of high quality materials and is available to choose from a few lock models.
    • Although the tripod is lightweight, it has a central column that has the facility to hang something heavy to keep it stable in windy conditions.

    Cons:

    • This tripod may not be a good choice if you wish to use a large camera and a telephoto lens.
    • It is quite expensive compared to similar tripods in the market.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent light weight tripod Reviewed in the United States on June 2024

    I am just getting into photography and I wanted a light tripod to carry with me, I have used other heavier tripods for stargazing, so I have a little experience with tripods. Although light, this tripod is stable, easy to use, and seems sturdy.

    Zomei Z699C Carbon Fiber Portable Tripod

    This is a budget-friendly tripod that is very lightweight and portable. This tripod can be converted into a monopod when required.

    zomei Z699C carbon fiber portable tripod budget lens for wildlife photography
    Photo on Amazon

    Pros:

    • It is a very affordable tripod for any photographer on a budget
    • Since the tripod has a ball head, it helps to move the camera to to any required angles.
    • Instead of the traditional clips and other lock mechanisms in tripods, this comes with a twist lock feature that makes it easier to setup when out in location.
    • This tripod has a unique feature of adjusting leg angles and so is a great choice for anyone interested in taking shots from unusual perspective and angles.

    Cons:

    • You cannot use this tripod for very low angle shots because the central column cannot be inverted for this purpose.
    • It is not very stable in windy situations.
    • Some reviews found online suggest that the quick release plate may not be compatible with some camera models or may not securely hold the camera.

    4.0 out of 5 stars Not super light, but still very useful Reviewed in the United States on May 2024

    Replacing my old cheaper Dolica, these are so much more sturdy and stable! They are also as versatile as described. I’m using it to hold up a heavy pastel painting pochade – much more difficult for tripods to handle full pochades for painting than even heavy lens cameras, BTW. If it holds up as I think it will, I’ll consider it a great purchase. However, even with carbon fiber legs I wouldn’t call it light weight, which is probably due to the extra sturdy metal fittings. Still it does fold up small, folds up well, and does the job.
    UPDATE: It is very sturdy and works like a charm! I wasn’t sure a ball socket would work as well as a pan tilt head, but it works even better.

    Peak Design Travel Tripod

    peak design travel tripod digital camera tripod reviews
    Photo on Amazon

    This tripod is known for its compact nature and design to suit photographers who travel a lot.

    Pros:

    • It can be folded to a very small size, making it highly portable. It can fit easily into a ackpack or a travel bag.
    • This tripod can hold some amount of heavy gear like DSLRs and telephoto lenses.
    • Since the legs have multiple columns, the size can be adjusted to the desired value based on the angle, perspective and type of shot.
    • The center column is can be inverted to capture some low angle shots or to capture subjects at ground level.

    Cons:

    • This brand is quite expensive compared to similar tripods, but the features make it worth the price.
    • The leg locks in this model seem to be a bit difficult to use compared to traditional flip locks or the twist locks.
    • The tripod comes with a ball head, which is common in most recent tripods. As a result, there is no panning base which can be a bit difficult for photographers who capture a lot of video footage and panoramas.
    • The tripod is very lightweight and can be a bt shaky in windy conditions.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Well designed Reviewed in the United States on April 2024

    Great portable tripod…very well designed with adjustable leg tension makes it solid in spite of it’s size. Watch the video for tips on setting it up fast. Has some extra features that most don’t.

    SmallRig 71 Inch Camera Tripod

    smallrig camera tripod wedding photographers
    Photo on Amazon

    This brand of tripod is quite affordable for anyone who has some hesitation to invest in an expensive tripod. It also can be converted into a monopod whenever necessary and this makes it a very portable accessory for hikers and travellers.

    Pros:

    • Since this tripod is affordable, it is a great choice for anyone who travels a lot for landscape and other photography that require a tripod.
    • It comes with attachments that allow the user to customise the tripod and use various mounts for devices other than a camera.
    • These tripods have capacity to hold moderately heavy camera and lens combinations.

    Cons:

    • The tripod is quite basic and is not easily available in the market all the time.

    5.0 out of 5 stars  Very easy to use, solid construction Reviewed in the United States on March 2024

    I am using for both taking photos with my iPhone and using my telescope viewer. It has two base attachment so I can swap quickly.
    One thing to be aware of: I was adjusting it in the dark while taking aurora photos (or attempting to) and it came apart. I tried to put together on the dark but one piece was not able to go back on. Strangely enough, the post had come off during the initial breakdown which I had not noticed in the dark.
    I had to remove the top, remove the attaching post and put the collar on, then replace the post before screwing the top piece back on. (This will make sense if you are fighting with this problem)
    Now I am using it with pleasure, easy adjustments, smooth turning.

    Benro Rhino Series FRHN24C

    benro rhino series FRHN24C wedding photography
    Photo on Amazon

    This is a Carbon Fiber Tripod with a sturdy build and design. They are designed to carry heavy camera and lens and are very portable, even if they cannot be folded to a very small size.

    Pros:

    • The tripod legs allow to adjust the angles to get shots from unique angles and levels.
    • The flip lock mechanism on the tripod legs allow the users to set and fold the tripod easily when in the field.
    • The center column comes with a hook to hang something heavy for stability during windy situations.

    Cons:

    • This tripod is slightly more expensive compared to other tripods.
    • It is heavier compared to similar tripods.
    • It is not too compact once folded and is not recommended for longer travels.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Great travel tripod Reviewed in the United States on August 2022

    I was hiking in Yellowstone and saw several people carrying this tripod. I had to get one once I handled one. It is light, has various positions and very stable. Good price!

    Vanguard VEO3T235CBP Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod

    vanguard VEO3T235CBP carbon fiber travel tripod wedding photographer
    Photo on Amazon

    This Carbon Fiber Tripod is one of the best in terms of portability and the feature that it can be converted to a monopod. The bubble level helps to keep the horizons straight in the frame and there are additional threads if you wish to mount more accessories besides a camera.

    Pros:

    • The tripod is made of carbon fiber material which makes it lightweight.
    • The legs are sturdy even in windy conditions.
    • The heights, angles and perspectives can be adjusted to get interesting shots.
    • The ball head helps to mount the camera in various angles and orientations.

    Cons:

    • Slightly expensive compared to other lightweight tripods.
    • The twist lock design may not be practical for some photographers who prefer flip lock mechanism.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Top quality Reviewed in the United States on January 2024

    One of the best tripods I’ve came across . It’s durable light food up compact and over all fit and finish is impressive !

    JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit

    JOBY gorillapod 3K pro kit wedding photos
    Photo on Amazon

    The JOBY GorillaPod is a popular mini tripod and is known for its flexible legs and compact design. The legs can be twisted and wound around things like poles, tree branches, etc. The gorillapod is not recommended for DSLRs, however a mirrorless camera with a lens that has a combined weight of up to 3 kg is supported. Here are some of its key features:

    Pros:

    • The legs are flexible and can be wrapped around objects and bent into various shapes. This allows the gorillapod to be used anywhere even if the surfaces are not quite right or if you need to put the camera high up or very low on the ground. Otherwise it can be used as a traditional tripod.
    • It comes with a quick release plate that allows to quickly attach and detach your camera.
    • The gorillapod material is made of rubber rings and grips which help the gorillapod to be attached to surfaces securely without slipping.
    • The gorillapod’s legs cannot be extended, but can be bent to achieve different heights.
    • The gorillapod can easily fit into a camera bag, making it very portable. It is also very lightweight.

    Cons:

    • The weight a gorillapod can hold is quite limited and it is most suitable for smaller cameras with a small lens.
    • You cannot extend the legs to achieve heights, but the gorillapod can be kept on walls or wrapped around branches and other structures securely if possible to get the desired heights.
    • It is not very sturdy in windy situations.
    • Adjusting the legs to get to certain angles may take time and requires some patience.
    • Limited Load Capacity For Accessories: While the tripod may have attachment points for accessories, the weight limit for these attachments can be relatively low, limiting your options for adding gear.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome tripod Reviewed in the United States on August 12, 2023

    For years I’ve avoided these tripods because I think they look gangly and stupid, but I finally tried one and wow, I absolutely love it. It holds a lot of weight, in fact, I screwed off the top and discovered the screw set is the same size as a monitor bracket, and I use the tripod as a stand for my Rodecaster Pro podcast board. This tripod is so versatile I ordered a second. My primary use for the second is for a small video projector.

    GEEKOTO 77 Inch Tripod

    GEEKOTO 77 inch tripod fine art photography
    Photo on Amazon

    This is an affordable tripod designed with both photography and videography in mind. The tripod legs can be adjusted to different angles in each level and hence can be used efficiently in rugged terrains and sloped surfaces. Since it also can be collapsed to a smaller size, it is perfect for photographers who travel a lot.

    Pros:

    • The tripod can be extended to a maximum height of 77 inches and is a great choice to capture high angle and perspective shots.
    • The center column can be adjusted or reversed to use the tripod at really low perspectives.
    • The angles for each section can be adjusted and this makes the tripod a very versatile on to use in tough terrains.
    • The tripod has one detachable leg that can be used as a monopod.
    • The price is quite affordable, making it a good choice for photographers on a budget.

    Cons:

    • The weight is slightly more compared to similar lightweight tripods.
    • The size of the tripod is not too compact when folded completely.
    • The tripod may be slightly shaky is very windy conditions.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Love this!! Reviewed in the United States on May 2024

    Works great for filming with your phone
    Really easy to adjust!
    I love how tall it goes, short and medium length
    Come with a case to hold it in

    3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0

    3 legged thing punks corey 2.0
    Photo on Amazon

    This is a lightweight and compact tripod made of magnesium alloy. This design is quite versatile and makes it a good choice for photographers who travel a lot.

    Pros:

    • The build of the tripod body is good and is made of durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear due to the environmental elements.
    • It can support all types of cameras including DSLRs with a standard lens.
    • The tripod legs are detachable and can be converted to a monopod.
    • Legs can be adjusted to various heights and angles. This helps the photographer to shoot from unique angles and perspectives.
    • The ball head allows the camera to be used at various angles and perspectives.

    Cons:

    • The maximum height is not good compared to similar tripods and may not be a sufficient height for some photographers who love to photograph from a higher angle.
    • It can be a struggle to use the tripod in very windy conditions.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Connection Failure- NEW UPDATE Reviewed in the United States on February 2024

    Update Feb 17, 2024: Excellent customer support from Neil & the company 3-Legged Thing in England. They are replacing the failed column lock and compression washer no charge plus provided great operational support guides for future. Very impressed how they stand by their product- Thank you! I have updated my rating to 5 stars.

    Conclusion

    We hope the above list and deciding factors will help you to choose a tripod that suits your photography and style. Look for the weight, load capacity and other features that will make your photography simpler with the tripod.

    What tripod do you use when traveling or what would you recommend and why? Let us know in the comments section below.

    Further Reading:



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  • ADEX OZTek Australia 2025 Coverage

    ADEX OZTek Australia 2025 Coverage

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    The opening ceremony saw guests-of-honor and Australian icons Rodney Fox and Valerie Taylor join ADEX CEO John Thet for the ribbon cutting

     

    I am typing these lines just a few hours after the conclusion of the ADEX OZtek Australia 2025 dive show, which took place in Sydney from March 15–16. As the name implies, this show united two well-known diving events into one. ADEX—short for Asia Dive Expo—has been organizing dive shows across Asia for years, the most famous of all being ADEX Ocean Festival in Singapore, which has been running since 2010. The OZTek Advanced Diving Conference, a bi-yearly Australian celebration of technical diving since its inception in 1999, is now managed by the Underwater360 Group, organizers of the ADEX events.

    The combination of the technical-oriented OZTek and the recreational-diving ADEX resulted in a plethora of talks and panels: Around 30 on the main “UW360” stage as well as 36 tech talks in the two OZTek theaters. As one visitor told me: There are so many interesting talks, I wish I could clone myself! It was great to meet ADEX CEO John Thet and his team, as well as all the key figures involved in OZTek over the years: founder Richard Taylor, and former organizers David Strike and Sue Crowe.

    Among the 30 exhibitors were resort and liveaboard operators, non-profit organizations, technical diving equipment retailers and service providers, and ocean artists, to name a few. In this report, I will focus on brands related to underwater imaging, but I’ll also include a number of other stands that I had a chance to visit.

     

    The OZTek Advanced Diving Conference component of the event saw attendees packed into two theaters at the back of the hall. Tech speakers included David Strike, Mikko Paasi, Patrick Widmann, and John Garvin

     

    My panel discussion on “Animal Behavior Photography” featured (left–right): Richard Fitzpatrick, Vanessa Mignon, Mike Scotland, Nicole Miller, Matty Smith, Scott Portelli, and myself

     

    Imaging Booths

    Three underwater imaging equipment manufacturers were represented at the show, along yours truly: DivePhotoGuide and The Underwater Club.

     

    Scubapix (Nauticam Australia)

    Scubapix sells imaging equipment online and from their store in Cairns, Queensland. Owner Peter Mooney had a several Nauticam housings on display, plus a range of wet lenses and water-contact optics that visitors could see up close. There were also external monitors, Keldan lights and Backscatter strobes, which Scubapix also sells in Australia.

     

    Peter Mooney (right) shows off a Nauticam rig equipped with dual Backscatter Mini Flash strobes

     

    Nauticam’s housing for the Nikon Z6 III, with the Nauticam WWL-C, a wide conversion lens compatible with full-frame Canon and Nikon cameras, as well as some compact cameras

     

    The Nauticam Sony Alpha 1 housing with the newly released SMC-3 wet diopter for super macro. The Nauticam MFO-1 (Mid-Range Focus Optimiser) was also on display

     

    The Nauticam Canon EOS R5 Mark II housing with the Nauticam FCP-1 mounted. Make sure to check out my comprehensive review of the Nauticam FCP

     

    Besides seeing the latest gear, show visitors had the opportunity to meet Nauticam CEO Edward Lai, who gave a fascinating talk about his journey in designing the company’s wet optics

     

    Sea&Sea

    Next, I met with Kaz Okada from Sea&Sea, who had on display the company’s universal housing for Sony, as well as Sea&Sea strobes, video lights, and other useful accessories.

     

    Kaz Okada holding the Sea&Sea universal housing

     

    Mounted on the left handle of the housing was a remote control, capable of controlling up to two Sea&Sea video lights via optical signals

     

    Sea&Sea’s LX-4000SW FS video light offers wide (100°) and spot (30°) beams, which can be further shaped with the company’s range of snoots. With the ability to fine-tune the light intensity via the remote, this makes for a convenient macro setup

     

    Sea&Sea’s pistol grip and new light mount offer an innovative way to attach any action camera right under the company’s video lights. This makes for an interesting alternative to the “light-on-tray” approach, widespread with action camera shooters

     

    Sea&Sea’s latest YS-D3 Duo strobes are available in different colors

     

    Dive Lantern

    Next, I paid a visit to Dive Lantern, an Australian company based in Perth that manufactures a range of video lights under their own brand, and distributes the DiveVolk smartphone housings and accessories in Australia and New Zealand.

     

    Dive Lantern founder Nik Johnson (left) took me through the company’s range of lights

     

    Dive Lantern’s dive torches are available in a range of colors to match your dive gear. Pictured here are the Core 1000 and Beacon 2000 models (respectively, 1,000 and 2,000 lumens), the latter coming with a magnetic charger. The DiveVolk smartphone housing is in the background

     

    The company’s video lights include the range topping V7000, boasting a 7,000-lumen, 120-degree beam and white/red/blue light modes

     

    DPG and The Underwater Club

    Your favorite resources for underwater imaging news and education—DPG and The Underwater Club—shared a booth, and we had a great time chatting to visitors and industry members about all things underwater photography and video.

    DPG is the leading underwater imaging media by reader numbers, offering a wealth of equipment news, reviews and dive destination reports. The Underwater Club is the first online underwater photography school and community, with members from 18 countries. Members enjoy access to self-paced e-learning courses, live and recorded masterclasses, live Q&A sessions and support forums.

     

    Left: Yours truly, Right: Léna Remy, my partner in life and in business

     

    Other Booths

    Besides covering the photography-related booths, giving a talk on the main stage (“Rebreathers for Photography”), and moderating a panel on animal behavior photography, I managed to visit several of the exhibitors present at the show. I caught up with a few dive operators, resorts and liveaboards who take good care of underwater photographers and videographers. I also met with two artists who create products inspired by the ocean, as well as a thriving Sydney-based online diving community.

    Manta Lodge

    Located on Stradbroke island, a short ferry ride away from Brisbane, Manta Lodge and Scuba Centre is one dive center that I have been closely following since my first visit in early 2020.

    Not only do they have immediate access to manta rays, leopard sharks and turtles (seasonal), the once recreational dive operator is now catering very well to rec-tech and tech divers, offering training and rental on the Mares Horizon rebreather, the rEvo rebreather and, very soon, Halcyon’s new Symbios rebreather. They have different experiences on offer for suitably certified divers, such as two-hour shark drift dives and access to rarely dived sites. Expect a forthcoming DPG article where I’ll share more on the unique experiences they have to offer.

     

    Combine a great location with full rebreather facilities with a show like ADEX OZTek Australia 2025, and you get a stand that rarely got quiet!

     

    The lightweight Halcyon Symbios rebreather isn’t available to purchase yet, but Manta Lodge had two units on display, with which they will be offering SSI training in the near future

     

    Mike Ball Expeditions

    Next, I caught up with Craig Stephen from Mike Ball Expeditions. The well-known liveaboard operator offers three-, four- and seven-night cruises covering various itineraries in the Great Barrier Reef, including special trips like minke whale swims and a few cruises to the world-famous Yongala wreck. Their boat Spoilsport also offers freshwater rinse tubs for photography gear, as well as two camera stations with air guns.

     

    One thing I really like about Mike Ball—and this would be enticing for the tech divers visiting OZTek: They cater for rebreather divers!

     

    Master Liveaboards

    Next I caught up with Alexander Whitley-Wilson, the general manager of Master Liveaboards, a company with a fleet of vessels covering a range of exciting destinations, such as the Galápagos, Bikini Atoll, Solomons Islands, Palau, and Myanmar.

     

    Master Liveaboards are currently running some specials on select Indonesia and Egypt cruises

     

    Wakatobi Resort

    Tucked in a remote island off the southeast of Sulawesi, Indonesia, and at least 100 miles away from the nearest dive operation, Wakatobi Dive Resort offers a luxury experience and takes very good care of underwater photographers, with an air-conditioned camera room. They also operate the luxurious Pelagian liveaboard, for those who want to explore even further afield.

     

    Wakatobi’s Linda Cash (left), busy discussing the wonderful diving they have on offer

     

    Aivymaes Divers

    I caught up with Mark Gromley from Aivymaes Divers, a resort and dive center located in Dauin—one of the Philippines’ best macro regions. They offer affordable dive packages and can take wide-angle photography lovers to nearby Apo Island.

     

    Aivymaes Divers is one of the organisers of the Dive Dauin photography festival, which includes an in-person photo competition

     

    Benni Marine Designs

    Tasmania-based underwater photographer and artist Benita Vincent was exhibiting her latest collection of eco-friendly apparel, inspired by the marine critters featured in her photographs. To browse her catalog and order online, visit www.bennimd.com.

     

    A choice of buffs, scarves and neoprene pouches

     

    Wildcard Sue

    Sydney-based diver Sue B-Doobie Liu draws and paints the marine life she encounters on her dives, and offers a range of products derivated from these, including postcards, key rings, T-shirts, and more. Browse Wildcard-Sue’s website to check out her work and order online.

     

    Sue’s beautiful drawings adorn a wide variety of products and make perfect gifts for underwater enthusiasts

     

    Sydney Viz Group

    Viz is a growing Facebook community of 17,000-plus ocean enthusiasts from the Greater Sydney region, who exchange insights on local visibility and diving conditions. It’s an excellent resource for local and visiting divers to help plan your next dive.

     

    From left to right: local photographer Pete McGee, Viz founder Marco Bordieri, and group admin Adam Were

     

    Marco and Adam were exhibiting their collection of old bottles, found underwater while exploring the Sydney coastline with their underwater scooters. Some are over 100 years old!

     

    The Decompression Party

    Right after the end of the show, exhibitors, industry members and speakers had a chance to meet and network in a relaxed atmosphere, with a drinks party organized by Underwater360 in the nearby Pyrmont Bridge Hotel. There was even a concert with some OzTek speakers playing! It was an awesome night, the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends—and make some new ones!

     

    ADEX OZTek’s happiest attendees: The lucky draw winners!

     


    About the Author: Nicolas Remy is an Australia-based pro shooter and founder of online underwater photography school and community, The Underwater Club, with members in 18 countries. A DPG Field Editor, Nicolas serves as an ambassador for Mares and Nauticam, and chairs the jury of the prestigious DPG Masters Underwater Imaging Competition. Nicolas’ images have been widely published in print and digital media, and have won over 40 international photo awards. To see more images by Nicolas and his wife Léna, visit their website, www.nicolaslenaremy.com.

     


    When purchasing underwater photography equipment like the products mentioned in this article, please support DPG by supporting our retail partner—Backscatter.com.



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  • Wedding Photographers In Kenya :: Creative Moment Documentary

    Wedding Photographers In Kenya :: Creative Moment Documentary

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    Wedding Photographers In Kenya :: Creative Moment Documentary

    Kenya Tree House Wedding :: Bethsaida Park Kikuyu Nderi Road

    Congratulations Vivian & Peter
    Date| 09.04.2020
    Wedding Church/Reception|Bethsaida Park Kikuyu Nderi Road
    Nairobi Wedding Photographer | Antony Trivet Photography
    DJ/Mc|Sound|Mc Headboy Of Kent Events Kenya
    Wedding Decoration|Perfect Moments Events
    Cake|Muthonis_Kitchen
    Caterers|Sherry Dine Enterprise Kenya
    Photo-shoot Location|Kenya Tree House Mbagathi Ridge
    We were introduced to Vivian and Peter via a common friend who happened to be Vivian’s Brother and we remember the first time we met Vivian she told us, just do whatever you guys are good at and those words came in as a relief. It’s a rare and extremely special moment for photographers when they are told to express themselves in their style. We knew we could go all in experimenting with them. We did a small one-hour shoot for them at Kenya Tree House Mbagathi Ridge End of the plot after the wedding and they cooperated with us all along.

    Vivian and Peter really acknowledge each other’s presence and it’s simply wonderful. They are one of the most adorable duos we have shot and our photography session ended in a lifelong friendship with these cute souls. Looking forward to fun times with them.

    1. 4ever and ever

    Wedding Photographers In Kenya Wedding Photographers In Kenya Wedding Photographers In Kenya Wedding Photographers In Kenya


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  • ADEX Ocean Festival Singapore 2025 Event Details

    ADEX Ocean Festival Singapore 2025 Event Details

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    There’s less that two weeks to go before the return of the Asia Dive Expo (ADEX), and the region’s biggest dive show is shaping up to be another epic event. This time around, the show is dedicated to cephalopods—octopuses, squid, cuttlefish, nautiluses—with a celebration of marine life behavior, so attendees can expect some fascinating talks on those marvellous mollusks as well as presentations on the weird and wonderful things that animals get up to.

    If those topics sounds familiar, that’s because “Cephalopods” and “Animal Behavior” are two of the categories in the ADEX Voice of the Ocean Photo+Video+Art Competition, which is hosted this year on DPG’s Underwater Competition platform. One of the highlights of the show will be the live judging event for the competition: The finalist entries will be presented to an all-star judging panel that includes Berkley White, Erin Quigley, Franco Banfi, Kate Jonker, Kay Burn Lim, Nicolas Remy, Tobias Friedrich, and William Tan, as well as VIP guest judges—and legendary National Geographic shooters—David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes.

    Needless to say, alongside the presentations and on-stage events, visitors can expect halls packed with the leading diving equipment manufacturers, underwater imaging gear brands, and resort/liveaboard operators, not to mention tourism boards, training agencies, and marine conservation organizations.

    The event runs from April 4th–6th and tickets are available here. Check out the press release below and head over to the ADEX website for more information.

     


    PRESS RELEASE

    ADEX Ocean Festival Singapore 2025, Dedicated to Cephalopods + Celebrating Marine Life Behaviour

    Singapore, April 4-6, 2025 – The highly anticipated ADEX Ocean Festival Singapore 2025 will be held at Suntec Singapore from April 4 to 6, 2025. Marking its 31st year, ADEX remains the platform for divers, conservationists, and ocean enthusiasts to come together, share their passion, explore innovative solutions to ocean challenges, support conservation efforts, discover the latest in diving technology, photography, videography, and much more. This year’s festival promises three days of exciting events, inspiring talks, and must-see attractions for divers of all levels.

    ADEX Voice of the Ocean Photo + Video + Art Competition 2025

    One of the most awaited highlights of ADEX 2025, the Voice of the Ocean Competition, will return with the live judging event with entries in five categories: Animal Behavior, Cephalopods, Waterscapes, Artwork, and Short Film. This year’s edition celebrates marine life behavior with a special focus on cephalopods. The panel of judges includes Berkley White, Erin Quigley, Kay Burn Lim, Nicolas Remy, Robert Stansfield, and William Tan, with special guest judges David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes joining in as well. Each category will have multiple prizes, including the Best of Show award. More details on VOO 2025 – ADEX.

     

     

    Surface Interval – Health and Fitness for Diving Enthusiasts

    For the first time, the Surface Interval zone will be a key feature at ADEX, focusing on divers’ health and fitness. Attendees can explore booths offering medical consultations on breathing issues, posture correction, and diving-related injuries. This area will also feature a hypnotherapy workshop for divers with phobias like fear of sharks etc. The latest Surface Interval Magazine will be launched during at ADEX Ocean Festival 2025.

     


    Dive Tank and ADEX Mermaid Festival

    ADEX Ocean Festival 2025 will once again feature the ADEX Mermaid Festival, where skilled mermaids and underwater performers from across the globe will stand a chance to be voted ‘The ADEX Most Voted Mermaid of the Year’, based on audience votes. The Dive Tank will also host underwater rugby matches and live painting performances by ocean artists, providing unique underwater experiences.

     


    Scuba Try-Outs and Technology Demos at The Pool

    The Pool area will provide attendees the opportunity to experience scuba diving for the first time through guided try-outs. This area will also be the stage for the latest advancements in dive technology, giving visitors a firsthand look at new diving gear demonstrations.

    Industry Experts

    ADEX 2025 will feature insights from leading experts across multiple fields, including Tek diving, conservation, underwater photography and videography, new dive technology, education, freediving, and marine life research and much more. There will be three dedicated stages focused on conservation, Tek, and underwater image/film/book, where speakers will share groundbreaking insights, discoveries, and experiences.

    For a list of speakers, click HERE

    Exhibitor Booths

    The festival will bring together top international dive brands under one roof, with exclusive deals and offers for visitors. Explore a wide range of booths showcasing the latest in dive gear, dive apparel, accessories, global dive destinations and more.

    For the floorplan, click HERE. Exhibitors list available HERE

    Exciting Lucky Draws and Giveaways

    Attendees will have multiple chances to win exciting prizes from vendors through daily lucky draws.

    Sponsors

    The Official Country Partner for ADEX Ocean Festival 2025 will be the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) while the ADEX Dive Destination Partner will be Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board with DAN World joining as the Official Dive Safety Partner. PADI takes on the role of Official Bag Sponsor, while SEACAM is named the Official Dive Underwater Housing Partner. KAYASUBA will be the Official Mermaid Tail Partner, and Mermaid Federation International (MFI) will sponsor the Dive Tank. More amazing sponsors are coming in to support the Voice of the Ocean Photo + Video + Art Competition, the Mermaid Festival, and the daily lucky draws.

    Be a part of Asia’s largest dive show!

    This year, ADEX Ocean Festival 2025 is dedicated to cephalopods and celebrates the remarkable behaviors of marine life. ADEX is more than just a dive show. It is a gathering of ocean explorers, conservationists, and tech pioneers who are shaping the future of diving and marine conservation. Connect with experts, discover cutting-edge gear, or listen to the stories from our oceans and join a community dedicated to protecting it.

    Event Details

    Event Name: ADEX Ocean Festival Singapore 2025 Dates: April 4-6, 2025

    Venue: Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre Website: www.adex.asia

    For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:

    Mihiri S Korala mihiri@uw360.asia

    +94 777 706 009



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  • Sony Launches The World’s First 50-150mm F/2 Lens

    Sony Launches The World’s First 50-150mm F/2 Lens

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    Sony has announced a telephoto lens with a unique focal range, the FE 50 – 150mm f/2 GM lens which is the world’s first lens to have a maximum focal length of 150mm and f/2 aperture. The lens is lighter, weighing at about 1340g. This the company’s second f/2 zoom lens in the GM series.

    The zoom range of this lens, 50-150mm and the f/2 fixed aperture along the entire zoom range, makes it a great lens for wedding, portrait and event photographers where the subject can be isolated with a shallow depth of field. Unfortunately the lens does not have internal image stabilization.

    Image via Sony

    Similar to Sony’s range of G Master series of other lenses, the FE 50-150mm f2 GM lens produces stunning images of very high resolution and beautifully smooth bokeh. This will make this lens a great choice for professional photographers who already work with the Sony Alpha camera system. This lens will also be a great choice for professional video makers because of its stunning cinematic results and great clarity.

    The lens comes with Nano anti-reflection coating, that will help to reduce flare and ghosting significantly even in backlit situations. The lens also comes with four extreme dynamic linear motors for faster and accurate focusing.

    Some of the most important features of this lens are:

    • Focal length – 50 to 150mm, E mount lens
    • Maximum aperture – f/2
    • Aperture blades – 11, rounded aperture
    • Lens elements – 19 elements in 17 groups
    • Filter size – 95mm
    • Image stabilization – No
    • Internal focusing and zooming – Yes
    • Aperture, focus and zoom rings
    • Weather and dust sealed
    • Weight – 1340g

    The lens seems to be quite expensive, priced at $3,899.99 and is available to pre-order now. The estimated shipping date is towards the end of May, 2025. More details about this lens can be found here.

    We have more news for you to read if you are interested at this link here.



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  • Greg Latza – A Photo Editor

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    The Art of the Personal Project is a crucial element to let potential buyers see how you think creatively on your own.  I am drawn to personal projects that have an interesting vision or that show something I have never seen before.  In this thread, I’ll include a link to each personal project with the artist statement so you can see more of the project. Please note: This thread is not affiliated with any company; I’m just featuring projects that I find.  Please DO NOT send me your work.  I do not take submissions.

     

    Today’s featured artist:  Greg Latza

    Throughout my 27 years of freelancing, I’ve constantly needed book projects to maintain my sanity.

    Back in October 1999, my talented editor/designer/wife Jodi and I ambitiously published my first photography book, Back on the Farm. It was self-funded and wholly terrifying…but also thrilling. We printed 4,000 copies and I figured that if we could sell them all within 10 years, the book would be a success.

    Two months later, the book had sold out and a new side business was born.

    Over the next ten years, we published seven more photography books about various South Dakota subjects, including a children’s book written by Jodi, and books about the Missouri River, small towns and World War 2 veterans.

    After that furious decade of publishing, our three busy kids needed more of our time and the books took a backseat. But it didn’t take long to realize that these book projects had been my main creative outlet. The freedom that book photography offered was something I sorely missed as my stable of advertising clients grew and my assignment work squeezed out any spare time for book projects.

    I’d been photographing western South Dakota for my fine art catalog for years, and I always knew that another book was hiding among those images. I assembled the bones of the book during the pandemic and shot the remaining 60% of the photos between 2020 and 2024.

    We published West River in October 2024. The book is a tribute to ranching families and the amazing landscape they inhabit, as well as a few other uniquely western South Dakota tidbits. The title is derived from how the Missouri River splits the state into halves, known by residents as East River and West River.

    We are planning to publish East River in late 2027, and it will be an equal-sized companion piece to West River.

    With these new book projects to work on, most of my sanity has returned! They’ve been great fun to plan and execute, and in turn I believe these personal projects make my corporate work better

    ****************

    West River

    Clothbound hardcover

    12”x11”

    264 pages

    178 color and B&W photographs

    $50 cover price

    Available on my website at www.greglatza.com

    *********

    Greg Latza is a freelance photographer based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The majority of his work is for agricultural, industrial and energy clients, most notably Tractor Supply Company and Kubota.

    To see more of this project, click here

    Instagram

    Suzanne Sease is a creative consultant and former ad-agency senior art buyer. She works with both emerging and established photographers and illustrators to create cohesive, persuasive presentations that clients can’t resist.

    Suzanne offers something rare: an insider’s perspective on how client’s source creative talent. Her deep understanding of the industry is underscored by her impressive resume: 11 years as senior art buyer at The Martin Agency, seven years as an art producer for Capital One, and stints with the art-buying department at Kaplan-Thaler and the creative department at Best Buy, where she applied her expertise to reviewing bids to see which were most likely to come in on budget. Over the years, Suzanne has worked with a wildly diverse range of clients, including Seiko, Wrangler, Bank One, AFLAC, and Clairol Herbal Essence. Now, as a consultant, she is equipped to problem-solve for her clients from an unusually dynamic point of view.

    As a longtime member of the photo community, Suzanne is also dedicated to giving back. Through her Art of the Personal Project column on the popular website aphotoeditor.com, she highlights notable personal projects by well-known and up-and-coming photographers. The column offers these artists excellent exposure while reflecting Suzanne’s passion for powerful imagery.

    Instagram



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  • A Real Wedding In Kenya :: Nairobi Creative Photographers Stories

    A Real Wedding In Kenya :: Nairobi Creative Photographers Stories

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    A Real Wedding In Kenya :: Nairobi Creative Photographers Stories Florienta Garden Rosslyn Lonetree – Karura House Runda Nairobi

    Eileen And Brian’s Florienta Gardens And Karura House Wedding Celebration

     From the moment we met this sweet couple, we knew their wedding was going to be something special. The two of them were so in love and had such a positive outlook on life, that it was impossible not to get swept up in their happiness. Their wedding day was truly beautiful, full of warm smiles and heartfelt laughter. We are so grateful that we were able to be a part of it! We are absolutely thrilled to showcase here a few highlights from Eileen and Brian’s big day! A Real Wedding In Kenya.

      Band | Weavers Band
    Outdoors Garden Church Location| Florienta Gardens
    Nairobi Wedding Photographer | Antony Trivet Photography
    Assistant Photographer | Nashon Otieno Ariff Kuppah
    Bridesmaids Wedding Dresses Designer | Ellen Design Designer Helen Tolbert
    Photo-shoot Location| Karura House Runda
    Food | Ak Goko De Chef Of Delicious Cuisines Caterers
    Makeup Artist | Bayaa’stouch
    Hairstylist | Priscah The Hairstylist
    Tent and Decor | Ecoworld Events Management Company
    Mc | Mc Saada Fateh

    A Real Wedding In Kenya A Real Wedding In Kenya A Real Wedding In Kenya A Real Wedding In Kenya A Real Wedding In Kenya A Real Wedding In Kenya


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  • Hugues Oyarzabal, Pioneering Surf Photographer, Dies at 39

    Hugues Oyarzabal, Pioneering Surf Photographer, Dies at 39

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    Hugues Oyarzabal, a surfing legend who pioneered photography from inside the barbell of the wave, died on February 21st. He was 39 years old. The New York Times reports that Oyarzabal took his own life after a lifelong battle with bipolar disorder.

    “His physical and psychological suffering took its toll,” his parents told The New York Times. “He has chosen to leave us, to rediscover the peace and serenity he has been unable to find over the last few years.”

    In an era before the ubiquity of GoPro and other “action” cameras, Oyarzabal led the innovative charge on bringing the viewer as close as possible to the action. As early as 2001, the French-born surfer captured images from inside the tubes of waves by strapping a mini-DV camcorder in a jury-rigged waterproof housing to the front of his surfboard.

    Other notable highlights from Oyarzabal’s career include becoming one of the first to take on the big, dangerous waves of Teahupo’o, Tahiti and Western Africa. The Times has a great profile honoring his life.

     



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  • This is Why DSLRs Makes Sense In The Mirrorless Era

    This is Why DSLRs Makes Sense In The Mirrorless Era

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    Well over a decade ago, I wrote an article predicting the death of the DSLR. I got quite a lot of criticism for such an idiotic prediction, and yet, here we are today, with only one company, Pentax, still making DSLRs and even then to a fairly niche market. My article was about the fact that companies would stop making them, not that DSLRs would suddenly disappear, and that has proved to be true.

    The rise of mirrorless cameras was a juggernaut that, like the rise of digital, was unstoppable and inevitable. However, just because a technology is redundant doesn’t mean that it becomes irrelevant.

    The technology in DSLRs may not be as feature-packed as current mirrorless cameras, but the sensors were, in many cases, as good. In fact, some modern mirrorless cameras still share the same sensors as their older DSLR equivalents.

    Today, I want to examine why buying or owning a DSLR in the mirrorless era still makes sense.

    Sony mirrorless camera lying in grass
    Mirrorless cameras far outnumber DSLR sales these days. By FOX ^.ᆽ.^= ∫

    The Cost of DSLRs is Attractive

    Does it seem to you that the price of cameras has increased exponentially? I think that whilst the price of high-end professional cameras has not increased much from the DSLR days, there seems to be a dearth of cheaper, budget-friendly mirrorless cameras.

    Back in the DSLR days, there were excellent cameras such as the Nikon D5000 that could be bought for well under $1000, with a lens. There is very little in that price range today.

    However, if you are looking to get into photography or you are on a tight budget, there is now an incredible range of used DSLRs on the market. Not only that, many camera companies have had to update their lens mounts to enable newer technologies, and so the used lens market is equally as buoyant.

    For newer photographers looking to start learning without spending a king’s ransom, there are some amazing deals to be had. For $200-$300, you can get an 18-24mp pixel, well-specced DSLR body, and a little more will get you a decent lens to go with it.

    Advanced DSLR camera on tripod shooting landscape
    High end DSLRs can be had for less than the price of a budget mirrorless. By AS Photography

    For more advanced photographers who want something a bit higher grade, a few hundred dollars will get you into the Nikon D4 or Canon EOS 5D IV, both incredibly robust and capable cameras.

    There has never been a better time to invest in a DSLR, especially if money is a little tight.

    About Optical Viewfinders…

    I will be honest with you, I love the electronic viewfinder on my Sony a7Rv. However, even today, it is exceptional, with a very high MP count and low lag. There are many that lament the demise of the reflex optical viewfinder for good reason.

    They certainly had some major advantages, they were generally much brighter than EVs, did not suffer from lag, and some will say, gave you a connection to your subject – although personally I don’t subscribe to that. However, one of their biggest advantages is that they require little to no power, with the exception of the fairly limited exposure information.

    Man shooting with DSLR using the optical viewfinder
    There is still a lot to be said for an optical viewfinder. By Victor Ralda

    There are some disadvantages that we should mention. Whilst bright, it could be a struggle in low light to nail focus. Modern electronic viewfinders can boost the gain and allow you to see in much lower light, however, this is at the cost of extra lag. It’s also worth noting that not all DSLRs had great viewfinders. On more budget cameras, particularly APS-C, the viewfinder was often smaller, with less coverage and less brightness.

    With that said, there is still a lot to be said for a reflex viewfinder, especially given the cost of used DSLRs.

    Durability and Handling is Superior!

    As mentioned above, it is possible to buy a professional-level DSLR for a few hundred dollars these days. Whilst that might not be a good choice for a beginner, for experienced photographers who are using their cameras day in and day out, in all weather, it can make perfect sense.

    The reason for this is simple durability. All professional DSLR cameras are built like tanks, sturdy, metal bodies, often made from lightweight magnesium alloys and high-level weather sealing.

    A modern professional mirrorless camera will, of course, have all of this, but it will set you back $4000 plus for the body alone. As mentioned earlier a pro-level DSLR, even a late model, can cost less than $1000 and could easily last another 10 years if looked after. Even the mid-level DSLRs, such as the Nikon D800, were incredibly well built and came in even cheaper than the pro models.

    Another advantage, to some, of the DSLR is the handling. Many mirrorless cameras can feel quite small in the hand, whilst even mid-range DSLRs feel chunky and often have very nice, deep grips on them. If you have larger hands, you may well find a DSLR more suitable.

    Canon camera being held very low to the ground
    Handling is better for some with DSLRs By Mavio Silva on Pexels

    Battery Life is Better

    Remember that I said that the viewfinder did not require power? Will it’s a little more complex than that.

    Because the viewfinder is optical, the camera’s sensor does not need to stay on all the time the viewfinder is being used. This is one of the primary reasons that battery life is much better on DSLR cameras.

    Battery life on mirrorless cameras has improved and will continue to do so, but it is still a long way off matching an older DSLR.

    Like lenses, there are also plenty of used camera batteries on the market, as well as third party vendors, meaning you can power your camera for a lot cheaper as well as a lot longer.

    DSLR camera with SD card, battery and charger out of blue background
    Battery life still beats mirrorless. By Luis Quintero on Pexels

    Do You Need To Upgrade?

    In a similar vein to cost, there will be many photographers that are still shooting with their DSLRs. Social media and, to a certain extent, peer pressure can tempt people to part with cash they don’t necessarily have despite having a decent DSLR system already.

    If your camera is giving you great results and is well-maintained, why feel that pressure to get on the GAS treadmill? There are arguments that as DSLRs become less and less common, it will be harder to buy accessories for them, however, that time is a long, long way off. Look at the number of film cameras and lenses still available on the used market. Even if something fails on your DSLR, there is a good chance there will be plenty of spares and repair models available, and there are always plenty of camera technicians to repair them for you. Even in the worst case scenario, you will only need to replace like for like, all your lenses will still continue to be valid.

    The demise of the DSLR as a new camera has happened, and it is unlikely that there will be any renaissance. However, we had a good 20 years of the DSLR and there are literally millions of them available as used bargains. If you are looking to get into photography or perhaps get into more professional-level gear, yet are on a budget, a used DSLR system makes very sound financial and practical sense.



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