Review: HEX Raven DSLR Sling Camera Bag

An odd mix of frustration and satisfaction

There are so many things about the HEX Raven DSLR Sling Camera Bag that could have made it the absolute perfect bag for the commuter in a city not as densely populated as NYC. At the same time however, the HEX Raven DSLR Sling Camera Bag can be easily converted to be a sling bag for everyday use–and that’s where I feel it excels the most. Photographers (most of them) may appreciate just how comfortable the sling can be. Others may like the weather sealing and the semi-stylish design. And yet others may really enjoy the fact that it doesn’t look like a camera bag. Indeed the HEX Raven DSLR Sling Camera Bag has a lot going for it: though at the same time there are things that show HEX still has some way to go when it comes to design.

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Here’s the Real Reason Why We’re All Suckers for the Leica M6

The guys running Digital Darkroom have figured out why we’re all sold on the famed Leica M6

The Leica M6 is without a doubt a favorite of many Leica lovers, from ardent film photographers, to collectors looking for the rarest, most expensive special editions like the platinum-plated 150 Jahre Optik edition and ultra-rare M6A/M7 prototype. But why exactly are there so many suckers for the Leica M6? In the latest episode of the Digital Darkroom, Ian Wong and Derrick Wong try to figure out what makes this Leica model a cult classic.

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Review: Rokinon 50mm f1.4 AF FE (Sony E Mount, Full Frame)

A great lens at an affordable price with gorgeous bokeh

When I started using the Rokinon 50mm f1.4 AF FE, I didn’t think I and readers who I share images with on Instagram would adore the image quality this much. Don’t get me wrong, I knew Rokinon lenses are great, but this one seemed to create absolute magic. Photographers who likes bokeh are bound to be astounded by the Rokinon 50mm f1.4 AF FE, and those who enjoy contrasty images and very saturated photos will also find they’ll adore this lens. On top of that, you can guarantee it’s going to be sharp. The autofocus isn’t Sony’s but it’s still not at all that terrible. During my time with this lens, I was genuinely shocked because I hate the 50mm focal length. But over time, it started to change me. I still prefer the 35mm focal length, but the Rokinon 50mm f1.4 AF FE is an almost perfect lens.

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These Are 2018’s Top Photography Gear According to TIPA World Awards

Did any of your favorite photography gear make it to this year’s TIPA-awarded list?

Whether you’re still wondering about your next DSLR, first mirrorless pick, or an extra lens to play with, there’s always one last question worth ticking on your checklist. Do the experts think it’s the best choice? To help you come to a decision, the folks of the Technical Image Press Association have recently announced their selection of the best photography gear, accessories, and imaging tools for 2018.

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Inside the Photographer’s Mind: Ira Block

National Geographic Photographer and Sony Artisan Ira Block was our guest recently.

It was a pleasure speaking with Ira Block – a photographer who says he’s mastered both the creative side and documentary side of his craft at the moment due to his wanting to continually push himself forward and always create different images. Ira joined us in front of a live studio audience at the Adorama Event Space to discuss his background, how and why he creates, and to share a few key stories about his travels over the years. Ira also showcased lots of his new work in his book Cuba Loves Baseball: a Photographic Journey.

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Venus Optics Announced a Slew of Lenses Today

Venus Optics, the company behind the Laowa lens brand, announced four new lenses today

It’s not every day that a company drops four lens announcements at once. Yet here we are, as Venus Optics has just announced four brand new lenses, including what will be the world’s widest zoom lens for the Sony FE mount. Today wasn’t all about Sony love as the Chinese company also announced some goodies for Micro Four Thirds and even Fujifilm’s GFX system. These new Laowa lenses are sure to peak your interest in some way. Continue reading…

Landscape Photographer’s Passion for Large Format Prints Will Inspire You

Christopher Burkett is down to his last run of supplies to print his stunning large format landscapes in a meticulous but discontinued analog printing technique

While today’s generation of photographers speak of megapixels and other digital jargon to describe high-resolution images, Oregon photographer Christopher Burkett is still able to achieve precision without the use of digital technology. But, not for long. He’s rushing to print his large format landscape photographs in astounding detail using his last batch of discontinued Cibachrome supplies before they lose their effectiveness.

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This is the Ultimate List of Affordable Fujifilm Prime Lenses at Every Focal Length

Fujifilm’s Fujinon prime lenses are legendary, but they aren’t the only game on the block

Ask almost anyone about their reasoning for choosing Fujifilm as their camera system and much of the time one of the top reasons for that decision has something to do with the quality of their lenses. But it goes beyond lens quality because every system has some good lenses. In Fujifilm’s case, not only are these lenses quality, but they are very affordable, especially when compared to similar lenses in other systems. Continue reading…