Trending Photography News and Reviews

Prime vs. Zoom Lenses: How Much Does Image Quality Really Differ?

The debate between prime and zoom lenses is a common one. Prime lenses offer fixed focal lengths and are prized for sharpness and contrast, while zoom lenses provide versatility and convenience at the expense of some image quality. The real question is: how noticeable is the difference in real-world use?

Google Adds Watermarks to AI Photos

Google has introduced a digital watermarking system called SynthID to discreetly label images that are generated or heavily edited by artificial intelligence. The technology embeds an imperceptible identifier into the pixels of AI-created or AI-modified photos, which humans cannot see but software can detect​.

Sharp Yet Soft: Ricoh GRIIIX HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter) Review

Since its initial release in 2019, the GRIIIx has been a popular addition to Ricoh's revered GR series. Sporting a fixed lens with an equivalent focal length of 40mm, it’s the ideal companion for photographers keen to get a little closer to the action than the GRIII’s 28mm lens.

Why Aperture Priority Could Improve Your Photography

When you're out shooting, deciding between camera modes can shape your entire photographic experience. Many believe manual mode is the hallmark of a skilled photographer, but choosing differently can significantly improve your workflow and your results.

My Field Review of the KEKS KF01 Flash

Photography gear is constantly evolving, redefining what it means to be “professional.” Once, carrying massive DSLRs and powerful flashes was the mark of a serious photographer—now, smaller, more efficient setups are taking over.

Why Your Travel Photos Feel Bland (and How to Fix Them)

Travel photography is at a crossroads, struggling between authenticity and uniformity. Smartphones, AI-generated images, and overtourism are transforming what it means to photograph places and cultures.

Is This the Best Budget 35mm Lens for Sony?

In this review, we’re diving into the Viltrox 35mm f/1.2, a lens that surprised me in the best ways. I’ve had this thing in my hands for more than a month and have used it on multiple sessions now, and—spoiler alert—this is one of the best and most affordable 35mm lenses for Sony.

Mindset Shifts for Going Full-Time in Photography

Turning your passion for photography into a full-time career can be more realistic than you might think. Success doesn't hinge on talent or gear but on shifting your mindset and actively creating opportunities.

Hands On With the New Canon EOS R50V

Canon’s new EOS R50V has just hit the shelves, and I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an early unit to put it through its paces.

Which Nikon 50mm Lens Is Right for You?

The right lens can change the way your images look and feel. This comparison between the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 S and the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S breaks down what makes each option stand out for your shooting style.

How To Master Environmental Portrait Photography

I enjoy environmental portraits more than anything else because it’s something you can do anywhere, indoors or outdoors, across many genres of photography. The obvious opportunities arise with travel and street photography. So what exactly is an environmental portrait compared to a normal portrait? And where do you start?

How the Canon RF 16-28mm Compares to the 15-35mm

A compact, lightweight wide angle zoom can change the way you shoot landscapes, travel, and even video. The Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 offers a versatile range while keeping things small and manageable. But does it hold up against Canon’s more expensive L series options?

6 Photography Innovations That Were Too Early for Their Time

In technology, being first doesn't guarantee success—it often guarantees failure. The photography industry is littered with brilliant innovations that arrived years or even decades before the world was ready for them. These weren't bad ideas executed poorly; they were revolutionary concepts that failed because the supporting ecosystem, consumer behavior, or complementary technologies hadn't caught up yet.

We Review the Latest DJI Osmo Mobile 7: The Perfect Smartphone Gimbal for Beginners

DJI has long been a household name when it comes to drones and camera stabilization, consistently pushing the boundaries of what compact gear can achieve. With the launch of the DJI Osmo Mobile 7 (OM7), the company has decided to bring a highly capable gimbal to the hands of beginners without the usual high price tag. While many smartphone gimbals are often geared toward enthusiasts or semi-pro users, the OM7 is designed to be a true entry-level option that doesn’t feel basic. It offers minimal compromise in functionality while still packing in big capabilities, making it one of the most approachable and reliable tools for new content creators to elevate their mobile shooting game.

We Review The Godox AD600 Pro II

It's been more than five years since the release of the original Godox AD600 Pro, and we finally have version two. Let’s see what’s new.

Is This the Best Lightroom Plugin?

A few months ago, I started processing all my raw photos with a new Lightroom plugin. It led to a significant increase in image quality, as I show in this article.

Two Weeks With the Leica M11-D and I’m Ready to Hand Over $9,000

Since the inception of digital photography, every camera marketed to consumers has had a large LCD screen. Without this screen, it is not possible to set preferences for basic camera operation, nor can you verify that you are capturing images at the correct exposure. Without a rear screen, you can’t confirm that the camera has captured an image when you press the shutter button.

A Review of the new Fujifilm GFX 100 II

Medium format cameras were once gated behind enormous price tags, unjustifiable by most, but also unnecessary to most. Then, in the past decade or so, they have been made more accessible, in large part by Fujifilm. This is their latest addition to the GFX range.
Laowa’s New 8-15mm Fisheye Lens: A World of Creativity Awaits

I must confess, in my 40 years as a photographer, I’ve never once used a fisheye lens. I’ve not seen the point. When I was younger, I thought the idea of a distorted image was silly. But recently, I’ve become bored with my photography. I’ve been looking to try new things and explore more creative ways of shooting subjects like landscapes, street, and travel. As I pondered how I might achieve this, Laowa called.

We Review the Viltrox 40mm f/2.5 Lens

Quite recently, Viltrox introduced the AF 40mm f/2.5 lens from the “Air” series at a very budget-friendly price, considering the quality of images the lens produces. Viltrox is known for their glass quality and as a budget-friendly third-party manufacturer, and again they haven’t disappointed with this lens for both.

Hands On With Venus Optics' Bright and Versatile 8-15mm Fisheye Lens

If you want to explore ultra-wide perspectives, the new Venus Optics Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 Fisheye lens is certainly an intriguing option. This lens offers a versatile focal range and bright aperture, which means you can experiment with inventive compositions, especially if ultra-wide angles appeal to your artistic style.

Unlocking Better Outdoor Portraits With a Beauty Dish

Using a beauty dish in portrait photography is often misunderstood or avoided because of misconceptions around harsh lighting and challenging shadows. Yet, mastering this lighting tool can elevate your outdoor portraits significantly, creating a natural, defined look that large, soft modifiers can't replicate.

Landscape Photography: Focusing on Story Instead of Light

Do you find you have limited time to head out to do landscape photography? I do, and the times I am able to carve out a few hours, when I get to my chosen location, the light is terrible. And disappointment quickly sets in, because I wanted to create a beautiful image. So now, I’ve changed my approach to landscape photography and focus on looking for a story to tell instead.

The Ray-Ban Meta Glasses: A Photographer’s Perspective

I’ve had the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses for a while now, and this is what I think of them as a professional photographer, as well as why I picked them up and whether I would do so again. Smart glasses have come a long way from their initial inception many years ago. While there is still a lot of ground to cover—where I’m sure they will become a more portable version of the Apple Vision Pro—for now, this is what we have. But is it worth it?

The Key to Tack-Sharp Photography

Fact: Depth of field will remain constant across all formats and focal lengths as long as the aperture and the image size remain the same. There are several factors that determine how sharp, or not sharp, an image may be. One of those is depth of field, and another is the movement of the subject matter that occurs while the shutter is open. Here, I will discuss depth of field.

How to Turn Your iPad into a Computer Display

Turning your iPad into a second display for your Mac can make your workflow more flexible, whether you're looking for a compact desk setup or a mobile option. The process can vary based on your needs and available accessories, so here’s a guide on two methods that allow you to connect your iPad to your Mac.

Exploring the Grand Canyon With the OM System OM-1 Mark II

The OM System OM-1 Mark II offers a compact solution with powerful capabilities, perfect for your next adventure. Discover how this lightweight camera handles the stunning vistas of the Grand Canyon and why it might be the option you need.

Hasselblad X2D vs. 907X: Which Medium Format Camera Fits Your Style?

The Hasselblad X2D 100C and 907X with CFV II 50C digital back are two medium format cameras offering 100-megapixel sensors and exceptional image quality. These cameras cater to different needs, and choosing between them depends on your priorities.

The Sirui Aurora 85mm f/1.4: A Budget Portrait Lens Worth Considering?

Portrait photography often calls for a lens that can isolate your subject with a shallow depth of field while maintaining sharpness. The Sirui Aurora 85mm f/1.4 lens offers these features at a budget-friendly price. Whether you’re looking to step up your portrait game or experiment with low-light shooting, this lens might be worth a look.

Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8: Nikon's New Portrait Powerhouse

The Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB Z Lens aims to provide Nikon Z mount users with exceptional portrait capabilities, balancing sharpness and striking background separation, all at an incredibly low price. Here's a look at how it performs.

Real Estate Photography Trends to Watch in 2025

Real estate photography is evolving, and staying ahead of trends can give you an edge. From storytelling techniques to advancements in editing, adapting to these trends could redefine how you approach your work.

We Tested the World's Brightest Full Frame Zoom: The Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art

Firsts are always an exciting thing. Now, world’s first? That's another category in and of itself. At Fstoppers, we had the pleasure of testing Sigma's brand new 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art lens for Sony E mount. A behemoth of specs in a tiny package. So, of course, we had to take it somewhere epic—and what better place than the lush, dark, and moody ancient forests of central Pennsylvania?

Essential and Rather Unique Filters: The 135 Series From PolarPro

A circular polarizer (CP) and a mist filter are two filters that, in my opinion, everyone should own. And PolarPro makes some lovely CP and mist filters. I’ve been using their CP for the past couple of years. From travel photography to tabletop food photography in the studio, it’s a great filter. So, with an already great CP and mist filters to their name, why did PolarPro launch new versions?