A Review of the Impressively Affordable Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II

Samyang has been long known for creating sharp, highly affordable lenses, and in recent years, they have added autofocus capabilities to many, increasing their appeal. One such lens is the AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II, which offers the popular combination of a classic portrait focal length and a wide maximum aperture. And at $799, it is far more affordable than many comparable lenses. Can it keep up with those other options? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.

[ Read More ]

Surprising Results With Topaz Photo AI

Although I’ve watched videos and read reviews about Topaz products, I had never actually tried them, remaining faithful to my workflow and not venturing farther afield. I do like software and seeing what it can do with my images, but felt safe with what I currently use. So, what could Topaz Photo AI bring to the table that I couldn’t already accomplish?

[ Read More ]

A Look at the New Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM Lens

Recently, Canon announced the EOS R6 Mark II mirrorless camera, and alongside it came the RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM lens, the update to one of the company’s most popular lenses, the EF 135mm f/2L. As such, expectations are high for the new version. This great review takes a look at the new lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.

[ Read More ]

Network Storage Is the Only Safe Way to Store Your Pictures

Okay, so I know a lot of readers may disagree with me on this and have different opinions. My writing here isn’t intended to cause any offense, but more to offer an opinion and start a discussion on the matter. My evidence here is based on having worked in the IT industry for over 30 years and working in the photographic industry with creatives. Hopefully, after reading this you’ll come up with an understanding which may help your next (or first) computer storage purchase.

[ Read More ]

A Review of the Impressive and Affordable Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens

In the past couple of years, Viltrox has established themselves as a manufacturer capable of creating lenses at some of the most competitive prices on the market that often outperform their affordable costs. One of their newest offerings, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, offers Fujifilm X series users the enticing combination of an ultra-wide aperture, a portrait focal length, and an affordable price. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.

[ Read More ]

Can Sigma’s New 50mm Lens Compete With Sony’s?

50mm f/1.4 lenses are both highly versatile and highly popular, able to take a wide range of needs and scenarios, including portraits, weddings, landscapes, and much more. As such, almost every manufacturer makes at least one 50mm lens. The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art to the Sony FE 50mm f/1.4 GM are both new to the market and promise high levels of performance and image quality, and this excellent video review compares both to help you choose the right for your needs.

[ Read More ]

Go With the Flow: We Review the Insta360 Flow

Insta360 has now introduced the Insta360 Flow a handheld, lightweight, foldable, and pocketable gimbal with tonnes of features to help you create stunning videos. If you’ve ever used one of their products you’ll know the quality they deliver. I’ve personally had the opportunity to try the Insta360 One X2 and loved it, and hopefully will own the new X3 in the future. So when they asked for a review I jumped at the chance.

[ Read More ]