The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art Solves an Issue with Aperture Rings

They’re claiming that the Sigma 85mm f1.4 DG DN Art is better than the one they made for DSLRs.

If you’re a Sony E mount user, you’ve got a plethora of 85mm lens options. And today, you’re getting another with the Sigma 85mm f1.4 DG DN Art. According to Sigma, they’ve made it around 1lb lighter and 1 inch smaller than the previous version. As Sigma is a licensed Sony partner, you can also expect the autofocus performance to be as good as it possibly can be. That means this lens will fully realize the Eye-AF and Face detection algorithms that Sony cameras use. Couple this with weather sealing, Sigma’s aluminum/Thermally Stable Composite build combo, and the edge to edge sharpness they’re touting, and it seems to be a winner. All this for $1,199! But they’re also solving an issue many newer photographers have been facing with aperture rings.

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On PhotoWalking: Why I Think Leica Is King of the Land

On Photowalking is a short-lived series where EIC Chris Gampat shares his thoughts on using various camera systems.

There is the obvious idea that someone who owns a Leica is a rich photographer (or they’re a rich person, etc.) But the less popular belief is that they’re someone who really values aesthetics. I’ll never forget the words that Reviews Editor Paul Ip conveyed to me when I told him to use my Leica M4 for a while. He said, “It’s a tactile thing.” and he’s right! You can use a Leica and approach it from the standpoint of shooting like one would with any other camera, but you’d be doing your purchase an injustice then. No other system can do what a Leica can, and that’s why I think that they’re a fantastic product for photo walks. Specifically, the Leica M series are so great because they’re designed for you to be in the moment. You enter a completely different type of zen that you wouldn’t otherwise because you’re that much more involved in the photography process.

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9 Top Drawer 50mm Prime Lenses for Photographers Who Want the Best

These 50mm prime lenses are the cream of the crop.

When it comes to prime lenses, none are celebrated more than the old trusty nifty fifty. 50mm prime lenses are loved by photographers thanks to their exceptional ability to comfortably shoot most genres of photography. We have picked nine fantastic 50mm prime lenses that seriously impressed us during our time with them. There is simply no doubt in our minds that every photographer should have a 50mm prime in their collection, and if you’re the type who needs to have the best of the best, you should take a closer look at the 50mm prime lenses listed after the break.

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He Sold This Leica for College Money, It Returned on His 30th Birthday

When he had to sell his Leica to pay for college tuition, he never would have believed it would someday come back to him.

In the year 2008, the United States of America went through a crippling economic recession that affected everyone. And one man desperately needed money to finish his classes at University. Knowing student debt would plague many Millenials his age, he chose to ensure that he didn’t have any debt. So he did well, maintained scholarships, and sold things. He lived at home with his mother who had poor health and dealt with a massive rift in his family. He commuted every day. He did over five internships before graduating. And he had a lot of writing under his belt before he donned his cap and gown. He escaped debt-free. But in order to do that, he had to sell his Leica camera. Nothing in life comes without sacrifices.

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Daniel Sackheim, Director on True Detective, Shares His Photography

All images by Daniel Sackheim. Used with permission. Please follow him on Instagram.

“The artists I have the greatest admiration for are those that never stop growing. Like the Beatles and Picasso,” says Daniel Sackheim, whose name you may be familiar with if you liked True Detective, Game of Thrones, Ozark, and The Walking Dead. “They got restless doing the same thing and as a result their art was constantly evolving. I don’t want to stay static.” Daniel’s fantastic story of how he got into image making is one many can relate to in regard to getting closer to people. From his earliest days, he’s evolved into an accomplished Director and is currently returning to the world of still photography, Daniel’s cinematic vision translates well into his photography–and I guess we could say vice versa. We had a chance to talk to him about his recent work and about who his idols are.

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Weather Sealed Cameras: 7 Tough Cameras That Can Handle It All

weather sealed cameras

If your work demands that you be out in the rain, snow, or other bad weather conditions, you need to see these weather sealed cameras.

Over the last few weeks, we have taken a closer look at weather sealed cameras from Canon, Sony, and Nikon. While the big three have some great camera models that can play in the snow rain, so do other camera manufacturers that don’t get as much light cast upon them. In this roundup, we will be taking a look at weather sealed cameras from Fujifilm, Pentax, Olympus, Panasonic, and Leica so that you can fully explore the weather sealed camera marketplace.

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10 High Resolution Cameras That Leave No Details Behind

If you need lots of megapickles for your work, these high resolution cameras will fulfill all of your needs for detailed images.

No details left behind! This would be the rallying cry of a group high megapixel sensors. If you’re in the market for high resolution cameras, this roundup is for you. These high resolution cameras have some of the best sensors you can find inside of them, and they are capable of capturing stunning amounts of detail. If you like to make gigantic prints of your images, these high resolution cameras will thrill you to bits. Join us after the break to take a look at 10 of the best high resolution cameras that you can currently get your hands on.

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This New President Could Be Exactly What the Camera Industry Needs

The camera industry has needed a massive change for many years now, and he could do it.

When I read the press release and it said, “Leica Camera appoints Mike Giannattasio as President of its North American division, effective July 1,” I was very intrigued. Leica, I feel, has gotten back into their groove in the past few years when it comes to cameras. So when any new president takes over, I think it’s fascinating to wonder about how they could steer the industry. And Mr. Giannattasio is perhaps the one Camera Division President I’m most excited about at the moment. It’s my hope that Mr. Giannattasio will do precisely what I’ve been asking the entire camera industry to do for years. Further, I hope he’s successful in changing the minds of Japanese companies who seem to cater to what I feel is maybe 3% of photographers.

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6 Rangefinder Style Cameras With Vintage Charm, Modern Performance

If you’re looking for a camera with gorgeous retro styling, but you don’t want to give up performance, you need to see these Rangefinder Style cameras.

If you long for a camera that can offer classic retro looks, but you don’t want to give up performance, the Rangefinder style cameras we have rounded up for you here will fit the bill perfectly. There are Rangefinder style cameras that fit all types of budgets, and there are APS-C, Full Frame, and Medium Format offerings to choose from. All of these Rangefinder style cameras look amazing, and they will help you create images you’ll be proud of. Check out six of our favorite Rangefinder style cameras after the break.

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Olympus is Selling Camera Division, So What About Micro Four Thirds?

The same company that bought VAIO from Sony now wants Olympus OMD and Zuiko.

The first thing I woke up to this morning was a story about Olympus selling its camera division. And it’s sort of a surprising one to me. I knew for a while that Olympus wasn’t doing that well. But internal reps conveyed the company that their audience is shifting and that sales had been going up. But the Micro Four Thirds world hasn’t really been able to catch up to the other camera manufacturers when it comes to tech in many ways despite some impressive innovations and features. The reason why I’m saying Four Thirds and not Olympus is because there’s the bigger system than Olympus in this. Olympus created the Four Thirds and then Micro Four Thirds coalition. With Olympus’ camera and imaging division being sold off, I’m not too sure about the new owners and how they may potentially steer the Four Thirds world. I’m also just not confident about the future of Four Thirds itself.

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Very Comfortable Camera Bag: ProMaster Jasper Medium Satchel Review

We’ve been testing the ProMaster Jasper Medium Satchel for a few months, and are amazed at how incredibly comfortable this bag is.

I’ll be the first to admit that the ProMaster Jasper Medium Satchel isn’t winning any awards when it comes to stylishness, but this thing is super comfortable. One of the biggest problems for many photographers has always been the issue of comfort when it comes to messenger bags. They allow quick access, protection, and versatility, but after lots of time, they’re not comfortable. The ProMaster Jasper Medium Satchel does a few things to ensure that that doesn’t happen. It puts a big emphasis on shooting. There are quick-access ports, ample dividers, and lots of padding to hug your shoulder. And most importantly, you’re bound to come home at the end of a day of shooting and not feel like your back hurts. Even better; it’s under $120!

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Head Turners: 7 Stylish Cameras That Produce Incredible Images

You can get stunning looks and excellent performance in one solid package with these stylish Mirrorless cameras.

Some of the most popular cameras on the market today offer a ton in the way of performance, but their overall designs leave a lot to be desired. There’s nothing wrong with cameras with very utilitarian and functional designs. Still, there are stylish cameras out there that are stunning to look at, easy to use, and produce images that will amaze you every time you use them. If you want to own a camera that is sure to turn heads for all the right reasons, take a look at the stylish cameras we have rounded up after the break.

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The Phoblographer’s Guide to Buying a Used Leica

Most vintage Leicas retain their value very well over time. Be sure to brush up on these tips before you invest in a used Leica of your own.

Vintage Leica cameras are prized by many photographers for their robust build quality, reliability, and tactile feedback. While much of the photography industry today is predominately digital, used analog Leicas of yesteryear remain highly sought after camera. The nostalgia factor is undeniable, but their overall pleasing shooting experience undoubtedly plays a huge part as well. If you’ve been wanting to get your hands on a used Leica, here are some important tips to be aware of:

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Old and New: These Are My 7 Favorite Camera Designs

There have been some innovative camera designs throughout the years: here are my favorites.

I’m inclined to say that most cameras look very similar. That’s not a criticism; there’s only so much you can do when putting the ergonomics together. But, although the look of the camera isn’t the most important factor, it is appreciated when manufacturers go a step further than the traditional design. Our community often gets lost in spec sheets, obsessing over megapixels and autofocus points — I want to us to step away from that for a moment. Let’s instead focus purely on design, and see which cameras, old and new, have been the most eye-catching over the years.

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The Sony a9s and Other Possible Thoughts on the Camera Industry

If the camera industry wasn’t hit by the effects of COVID 19, I think that a whole lot could have happened.

The year 2020 was lining up to be one of the most innovative in the camera and photography world until the effects of COVID 19 pretty much tanked the economy around the world. There was so much riding on this. Canon has a new 1DX ready for the Olympics. Sony had the Sony a9 II prepared for it. Nikon had the Nikon D6. But in addition to that, it’s also an even year. Traditionally, this is a Photokina year. But let’s be honest, if Photokina happened this year, no one would have cared because of when it was specifically taking place. So instead, the industry went silent. But I’d like to take some time to think about all the things that could have happened.

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The Leica Digital Cameras That Will Become Classics

These slightly older Leica digital cameras are great performers, affordable, and bound to be classics.

Leica cameras are lusted after by many photographers. For most of us, though, the cameras put out by the legendary German manufacturer are out of our reach due to pricing, but what if we said you can get your hands on some slightly older Leica digital cameras that won’t break the bank? Not only are these Leica digital cameras affordable, but they’re also incredible performers that will help you create some truly gorgeous images. If you’ve always wanted to own a Leica, the slightly older Leica digital cameras that we have rounded up after the break are the ones you should go after.

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Small, Light and Mighty: 6 Fixed Lens Cameras That Still Amaze Us

compact cameras

Small in size, but big on performance; these slightly older fixed lens cameras will not disappoint.

Sometimes all we want to do is go out and shoot with as little gear as possible. At times, just thought of having to load up your camera bag and then having to lug it around can put a damper on your photography plans, and this, my friends, is where small fixed lens cameras come into their own. Being able to head out the door with a small camera with just one lens can be liberating. Not only will you save your back and shoulders, but you’ll find that you’re forced to be more creative due to only having one lens to play with. If you’re in the market for a camera that you can grab, slip on your pocket or a small bag and head out the door with (and you also want to save a few bucks), the slightly older small fixed lens cameras we have rounded up after the break may be of interest you

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The Classic Look: 3 Cameras That Capture Black and White Beautifully

Better black and white images start in the camera, and these three deliver some of the best that we’ve seen.

“Black and white creates a strange dreamscape that color never can,” is a quote by photographer Jack Antaonoff. And if you’re smitten with black and white photography, you know this to be true. Even the process of thinking in black and white is an entirely different one that engages your brain like no other. There are super pricey black and white cameras out there that are especially designed for it. And then some cameras shoot both color and black and white. Except that with their black and white simulations, it seems like there’s just an extra layer of charm. So we went through our Reviews Index to scour for a few cameras that we positively adore for their black and white simulations, which begs the question: why do you need these cameras? Well, you don’t. But photography as a hobby is all about passion and adoration. And what better way to fuel your passion than with a camera that does black and white, right?

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9 Lenses That Will Turn the Olympus E-M1 III into a Portrait Powerhouse

If you plan on using the Olympus E-M1 III for portrait photography, these are the lenses that should be in your collection.

Many photographers would have you believe the Micro Four Thirds platform isn’t suitable for professional portrait work, but this is fake news. The M4/3 system is excellent for portraits, and the E-M1 III has the best implementation of face and eye AF the platform has ever seen. There are also a plethora of pro-grade lenses that will make the Olympus E-M1 III shine. After the break, we will take a quick look at some fast lenses that will help you create portraits both you and your clients will absolutely love.

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Charlie Lieberman: From Filming “Heroes” to Loving His Leica

All images by Charlies Lieberman. Used with permission.

“A while ago, I found myself getting restless about my career choice,” says Charlie Lieberman to us in an interview. “Since my youth, I had admired good photographs and was envious of those who made them. So, I decided to change everything and see if I could teach myself how to make good photographs and prints.” The photographer who became a cinematographer then came back to photography earned a big break after teaching himself how to make what he calls “good photographs and prints.” His work leads him to photograph indigenous cultures for Anthropology books. Crazy, right? It’s not the first thing you think of when you talk about being a successful photographer, but it’s undoubtedly a dream for many, whether they realize it or not. After being discovered by a documentary filmmaker and tasked with shooting production stills, Charlie moved entirely into cinematography and worked on the show Heroes. With that past him, he returned to the world of the still photo.

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Video: How Zone Focusing Differs for Manual and Auto Focus Lenses

Zone focusing isn’t the same for every lens, and it can actually be challenging to do.

Street Photographers love to talk about zone focusing as their primary way of shooting. While some still go for autofocus, zone focusing is by far one of the best ways to shoot. Arguably, it’s faster than autofocus methods. And what lots of folks realize is that it’s different depending on the lens. Zone focusing is best at wide to standard focal lengths. But that performance also differs based on how the lens was designed. Arguably, zone focusing is more difficult with lenses designed for autofocus first. In today’s video tutorial, we explore this a bit.

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