Archive for the 'Gear Monkey' Category
Monday, September 9th, 2024
When you need support for your camera (or smartphone), and you are on the move, a solid tripod is the call. On the move is the key phrase as I like to travel as light as possible, while getting the results I need. Through the years I have tried many solutions, and have come to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Manfrotto BeFree Travel Tripod – When Weight & Strength Matter
Sunday, September 8th, 2024
Nat Geo has had a strong year of high-quality specials, from biographies of well known and diverse types of photographers, to capturing the beauty and wonder of the ocean. If there is one thing you are guaranteed of, is stunning cinematography. always. Period. End of story. This latest exploration focusing on the National Parks:USA is […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on National Geographic Tours the Gems Of The USA Parks
Monday, August 19th, 2024
I know that we have all probably had a pair of the ubiquitous white ear buds. Reality is they don’t last forever. True story is that the battery will only be able to be charged a certain amount of times, before they are ready to recycle. The quality deteriorates, and you will soon need a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Goldilocks of Ear Buds – Last One is JUST right!
Friday, August 16th, 2024
The last time we wrote about Nat Geo doc series, they were concentrating on the photographers life story along with their work. This time, they take you deep into the ocean with a group of scientists and cinematographers to show you the world beneath the surface as you have not it seen it before. At […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on National Geographic OceanXplorer – Under The Sea With Your Host, James Cameron
Wednesday, August 7th, 2024
In recent posts, we covered mobile content creation tools, and ventured into the audio portion as well, so was very curious to check out this lightweight feature laden mic. JOBY sent over this mic, the Wavo Plus, for review and had no input into this post. First of all, this mic comes with most of […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on JOBY Wavo Plus – Starter Mic for Vloggers
Tuesday, August 6th, 2024
A little while ago, I featured tools for mobile creation, and highlighted the the ShiftCam brand of products. The SnapCam is always in my bag, as well as the magsafe cold shoe. I’m all in for the ease of use and modular mag system of ShiftCam.They just announced a new group of products on Indiegogo […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on My Fave EDC, ShiftCam, Is Launching New Products On IndieGogo
Wednesday, July 31st, 2024
We’ve covered the basics, now let’s look at some extras, including one small but essential item in every camera bag. In Part 1, we discussed the various ways to hold your phone. Now, let’s consider the options for tracking, enabling you to move around freely or track your subject while keeping them perfectly framed. For […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Tools For Mobile Creation – Part 4
Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024
We have walked through some of the simplest to more elaborate set-ups to create content on your mobile device in part 1 (the basics) & 2 (the audio) Now, when you start adding the extras, they take power, and if creating content on your phone, you are gonna be needing some extra juice. But you […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Tools For Mobile Creation : Part 3 – The Power!
Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024
Living in A Powder Keg and Giving Off Sparks!
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on How To Get Some Great Shots Of The Fireworks!
Wednesday, June 26th, 2024
Let’s talk about sound, and keep it simple. A few ways to go here. And your choice of mic’ing is situational. All of this is about what you need for the situation. Interview? Selfie presentation? If you are doing an interview, or letting only the subject talk, A directional mic like the Rode VideoMicro is […]
Posted in Events Listing, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Tools for Mobile Creation: Part 2 – The Audio
Sunday, June 23rd, 2024
Yes, it’s Part 1 as there are so many tools available and choices to make. And it’s all about using your mobile device to make the content. Luckily, I’ve already gone through a bunch of options and hopefully can lead you to right choices for you. First of all is the basic capture. And deciding […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Tools For Mobile Creation: Part 1
Saturday, May 25th, 2024
Well, as we get ready to start the summer season, it’s a good time to have a look at some items that may enhance your giftee’s summer adventures. Some you’ve seen in earlier gift guides, and a couple of new items. (BTW, there is a great deal this weekend on of of my favorite items, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Mid Year Gift Guide 2024!
Thursday, May 16th, 2024
Fuji today announced 2 new camera body additions to round out an upper echelon Pro Line, GFX 100S II and an enthusiast camera body, X-T-50. They are on a tear with new gear! Plus a new kit lens fro the X- Series, 16-50, and a sports lens at 500MM for the GFX series. Since I […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Fuji Expands the Line-up: Pro and Enthusiast
Tuesday, April 16th, 2024
If you are like me, and have a “few” camera bags, they are all situation dependent. Stealth, Utilitarian, & Travel. One thing I didn’t have is a bag that I could bring into black tie event without sticking out. Grams (28) has come to market with a beautifully made leather bag, designed with the photographer […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Grams(28) Upgrades Your Camera Bag With A Perfect Companion To Your Fuji X-100VI
Wednesday, March 27th, 2024
Think about the light you need, either as a creative solution, or because it’s too darn dark! Chances are you have either a built-in flash on your camera, or hopefully, a separate unit. Now, we’re not going to get into studio lighting as that is a massive subject, and just want to look at the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on On Camera/Off Camera Flash – But why?
Monday, February 19th, 2024
If you have been on any social media in the past couple of year, you know that the FujiFilm 100V has been one of the most sought after cameras. Admittedly, i have using one of the X100 series for years, and it’s been the camera I grab when going out on the streets of NY. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on The Hottest Camera On The Internet Gets An Update
Tuesday, January 16th, 2024
I have a great deal of respect for companies that are dedicated to their product line, and of course to their customers. Yes, there are all of the camera manufacturers, who know once you are in a system, you will probably stay, unless you have unlimited funds. We could talk forever on each one, and […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Start 2024 With Perfect Color Using Datacolor
Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024
Happy New Year! I think we can all agree that 2023 was challenging on so many levels. But we all made it through! On to 2024, and a new device to maybe help you keep your calm, and focus. It’s something I keep in my nightstand and take it when I travel. Whether you have […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on And Now, Your Moment Of Zen….
Saturday, December 30th, 2023
First posted this about a year ago, but I think that it deserves another posting. When you go out , or party in for New Years. sure the phone may be your camera of choice, and maybe everything you see is so transitory that am IG story, or Snap will suffice. But maybe the people […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Make The Memories IRL with FUJI Instax
Thursday, December 28th, 2023
As the year ends, a little look back on how Photoinduced came to be. After leaving a production executive position at a large ad agency late 2004, I wanted to see what was around the corner. There was an idea that had been rambling around my head for awhile. A place for photographers to go […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Photoinduced: How it Started, How Its Going
Wednesday, December 27th, 2023
Sure, there was Black Friday. Then Cyber Monday Then Green Monday. And the sales continue.. If you are looking to make some purchase before year end, you are in luck! I keep getting emails about sales continuing this week. Everyone wants to end the year on a high note, including the stores. Here is also […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on We Knew It Wasn’t Over! Still Great Deals For End Of Year Gear!
Tuesday, December 5th, 2023
Whether you’re traveling or working from the home office, you need the right tools. Or maybe it’s just the coffee shop, you want tools to help make it as easy as possible. This is a big category, and I’ll try to group them into categories. All of the items here I have used in the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide #6: For The Road Warrior & Hybrid Worker
Tuesday, November 28th, 2023
Ok, let’s talk about audio. You know that it’s 50% of your content, unless it’s bad. Then it’s 80% Yes, this list hasn’t changed a lot from last year, except for a few big additions: When you want to go more mobile, and connect directly into your camera , or to a portable mixer, the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide #5 – The Audio!
Thursday, November 23rd, 2023
It has been an interesting year in the world of image making. There is major emphasis on content creators, and the equipment they may need. And Black Friday sales will be active on these brands, with highlighted products below: Joby, Pivo, Platypod, and LumeCube and Ankerworks Usually the biggest deal are on Black Friday, but […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide # 3 – Tools for Content Creators: Home and Mobile
Monday, November 20th, 2023
And here we go! It seems like this year, the end of year sales have been coming earlier and earlier! Since I wouldn’t want you to miss some of the great deals out there, we’re gonna start with software. Of course, all of the software below have great savings this year, so if you want to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2023 – #2: The Gifts That Don’t Need To Get Wrapped!
Sunday, November 19th, 2023
Sure, the deals are coming faster than ever this year, and in the coming days, the posts here will cover a range of gifts for the image maker in your life. Or maybe just you! With holidays here, your chances of hanging out with family are darn good, and I’d like to suggest something to you: […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2023 – 1st Up, Something For Your family
Thursday, September 14th, 2023
How do we share these enriching experiences with a wider audience? In this digital age, social media reigns supreme, with IG reels and TikTok leading the way. Like it or not, it’s a fact. Personally, I’ve embarked on a journey of increased content creation and discovered some invaluable tools along the way. When it comes […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Social Content & Platypod, Plus More! : Tools For The Kit
Tuesday, September 12th, 2023
The FujiFilm update to their medium format camera has been rumored and is now about to become available. The GFX 100II will be here this fall! What do you get different from the last model? For one thing the learnings of the sensor on the X-H2s, you get an improved 102MP Sensor with faster and […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Fall Will Bring A New FujiFilm GFX 100 II – Medium Format Flagship Gets An Update!
Sunday, September 10th, 2023
After a week in NYC with a gear show, Bild Expo, and an art show, Photofair, it became a meld of great effect. Both were happening within feet of each other in the Javits Center. Bild Expo was created by BHPhoto and since PhotoExpo isn’t around, this may become the new deal. To be able […]
Posted in Galleries, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on BH Sponsors a Gear Show, and PhotoFairs NYC Brings the Artistry
Tuesday, September 5th, 2023
In September 2023, the city’s photography enthusiasts and professionals are in for a visual treat like no other. The Javits Center, nestled in the heart of Manhattan, is set to host two of the most anticipated photography events of the year: Bild Expo and Photofair. Bild Expo: Where Creativity Meets Technology Bild Expo, an annual […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Captivating Moments Unveiled: Bild Expo and Photofair Illuminate NYC’s Javits Center !
Tuesday, August 15th, 2023
We have all seen, and probably used, a ring light. Basically, this gives you a shadowless light that may be flattering, although EVERYONE has been using this! If you don’t believe me, have a look at the eye in a screen grab. In what we call a catchlight, you can see the ring light on […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Content Creators: Change Up Your Lighting Game!
Sunday, August 13th, 2023
Sure, we all look at the latest camera bodies, glass, tripods, lights, bags (oh, the bags!) and more. When it comes to your final output, what everyone will see, it’s about the tonal quality and color. All of your post production adjustments are based on what you see on your monitor(s). A little while back, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Maybe The Most Boring, Yet Critical Piece of Kit In Your Photographic Life
Sunday, July 30th, 2023
While at CES 2023, part of the goal is to see what’s coming out new, that could be of use to all of you. When I saw this Pivo Max, I couldn’t wait to give it a go, and see if it performed as expected. What you have, basically, is a base that has a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Pivo Max – Your Solo Creator Multi-Use Tool
Thursday, July 13th, 2023
One of my favorite assignments was covering concerts at the Greek Theater in Berkeley. Being a young, low on cash, photographer, Nikons NPS Service was always great about loaning me gear to supplement my owned kit. The greats were there, and honestly, loved to photograph jazz musicians especially as they were the most chill. I […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on #TBT – Story Behind The Photos #1
Sunday, June 18th, 2023
I have been using Wacom tablets for many years, and the latest models are a great move forward. Thinner, sleek design, lighter weight, better button design. Bluetooth has been available, just have to mention. When you want to get more precise editing on your photographs, a mouse/track pad just won’t get you there. OK, I […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Wacom Tablets – The Pro Move
Wednesday, May 31st, 2023
If you are a content creator, you know the gear you should have. Or do you? As most of the content on TikTok has, primarily, a static camera, and maybe a ringlight, hopefully some audio that is more than a headset mic, you may want to stand out a little bit more. When I shoot […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Joby Smartphone “Swing” Slider – Upgrade Your Content
Wednesday, May 24th, 2023
Big day of news over at Fuji, and we’re here for it! Let’s start with the latest camera. Now that everyone is vlogging (aren’t you?) the industry has come to answer your need! The new Fuji X-S20, added in addition to the X-S10 has arrived with a ton of new features to make your vlogging […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Fuji Announces New Camera, Improved APP, & WA Lens
Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023
You know, whenever I go to trade shows, there is usually a trend in new products that can be spotted. This year at CES, it was no different as manufacturers saw a need, and rushed to fill it. Now as we all have been trained in the past 3-4 years to live on zoom calls, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Rolling Square – Form and Function Combine For A Brilliant Modular System
Monday, May 8th, 2023
After seeing the Panasonic LUMIX 5SII at CES, finally had a chance to actually put it to a real world review. Often touted as the best solution to mirrorless video capture, I also wanted to see how it performed as a still camera making it a solid hybrid choice. Sure, I’ll be laying out some […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Panasonic Lumix 5SII : Best for Video, or Stills?
Friday, April 28th, 2023
I know you have to have one of the most versatile, classic tools in your kit: A Joby flexible tripod called the Gorillapod! For many years, this company has given the photo and video community unique tools to capture images from anywhere! Yes, years ago, I did the first Photoinduced review of the Joby Gorillapod […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on A Classic Flexible Tool Adds To the Lineup : Joby Podzilla!
Friday, April 14th, 2023
Whenever I go to trade shows, I’m on the lookout for tools that may make your life easier. This iPhone Adaptor by AccSoon called the SEEMO, for your DSLR or Mirrorless camera came right to the top. An HDMI to IOS converter, has so many practical uses, you have to check it out. OK, I’ll […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Your Phone is Now Your Camera Monitor: Bigger, Brighter, And Always With You!
Monday, March 20th, 2023
Before your shoot…. Be prepared to get the best quality out of your project, with these simple steps below to get quality images. And save time in your post production. To start, there are a couple of things to carry if you are doing a shoot where there is time frame and money involved. Yep, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Tools Of The Trade – Start Your Post Process Right!
Tuesday, March 14th, 2023
When you need that second screen.. I’ll say it’s a safe bet that when you are on a Zoom call, your phone is close at hand. Whether it’s to txt with teammates, look at a message that was called out in a notification, or candy crushing your heart out, you need to have the phone […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on STM Brings Tools To Add A Second Screen
Tuesday, February 28th, 2023
The wireless mic category is growing fast as the number of content creators explodes My main set-up was for years, a Sennheiser transmitter /receiver system and a Tram-50 or Sanken mic, both lavs, to get that personal; sound. Then Rode joined the pack and a ton of people jumped on board, even my local news […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Ankerwork Delivers With A New Wireless Mic System
Thursday, February 23rd, 2023
A few months ago, I wrote about the collab of Fuji/Adobe /and Frame.IO using the Fuji H-2s to upload your camera files, still and video, to a FrameIO account for you, and perhaps your partners, so that A: you could start editing before you physically ingest your files, or B: your video files could begin […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji, Adobe & Frame IO Just Gave You Back Some Time In Your Life!
Friday, January 20th, 2023
If there is one thing I’ve learned from years attending CES is that a lot of the products you see may never make it to market. Development deals, supply chain for components, and perhaps just the marketplace. Since we are here at Photoinduced, I like to see what products may help you as a creator […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on CES 2023 Part 2 – What You May Actually Be Able to Buy!
Friday, December 30th, 2022
You got the new camera body, and now all of your media card collections may not be completely usable. If you are shooting large files and/or video, you definitely need to change it up, and upgrade. Speed is the name of the game. Kinda why you changed to the new cameras, correct? Before you consider […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on New Year, New Media Cards – Time To Upgrade!
Tuesday, December 27th, 2022
Sure, I have a rig at home that serves me well, and during the pandemic became my weekly go to. Now that I’m on the road more, I needed a more portable set-up and here is where I landed. And why. The Mainstay is the Zoom PodTrak P4 With the capability of 4 mics, a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on My Perfect Traveling Podcasting Set-up
Friday, December 23rd, 2022
It was a great problem to have this year: Updated cameras, and a few great choices in the X-T5 and the H2/H2s Before I let you know what I bought, and why, let’s rewind to why I went with Fuji to begin with: After a lifetime of being a Nikon photographer, starting with a Nikkormat, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji Introduced New Camera Bodies This Year: How I Chose the One to Purchase!
Saturday, December 17th, 2022
Ok, let’s talk about audio. You know that it’s 50% of your content, unless it’s bad. Then it’s 80% Yes, this list hasn’t changed a lot from last year, except for one big addition: As I’ve gone more mobile, my podcast choices for audio have changed, primarily on the portable mixer. Yes, the Sound Devices […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide #4 – Audio!
Tuesday, December 6th, 2022
The phone as a camera has taken over any need for a point and shoot camera. The camera brands have known this for years. The improvements keep on coming, and you just have to make sure you are charged up ALL THE TIME! As we all start to become one with wireless charging, the options […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide #3 – Phone Stuff!
Sunday, December 4th, 2022
It’s always a tough category to recommend as there are so many ways to go. As we go headlong into the holiday season, nothing says “I know You”, like a well-chosen photo book as a gift. That’s the good thing: there are quality photobooks for whomever you are gifting, worthy of your time, and the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on 2022 Holiday Gift Guide #2 – Photobooks FTW!
Sunday, November 27th, 2022
As we begin the Holiday Guides this year, we’re starting Gear for the Traveling Creator Yep, we are def full on the road again, prices are a bit higher this year, and you need this tech to get you through it all. And, as this is a traditional gift giving time, consider these things to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2022 – #1 : Travel Tech
Sunday, November 27th, 2022
Sure, there have been some great deals on photo software this holiday shopping season. The DAM (digital Asset management) software I depend on, though, is Adobe CC Lightroom Classic. For many reasons. Not only can I locate files going back almost 20 years on my many HDs,RAID Arrays, etc., currently over 350K images, but I […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Favorite Software Upgrade In The Past Year!
Saturday, November 26th, 2022
Tis the season to go to a lot of tech events, where I try to suss out products that may be useful to you in your creator life. So it was a huge surprise, when at the last tech event, I saw something off my beaten track. Now I was also out there and on-line […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Product I Didn’t Think I’d Review
Monday, November 14th, 2022
So, you want to make a podcast? It’s a great way of creating a voice for yourself and discuss topics that may be of interest to others. I’m on episode 53 of my own, and it becomes a weekly discipline. But that not what you want to hear about. The question may be: What is […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on 3 Sets of Gear for Podcasting – Choose Your Own Adventure!
Sunday, November 13th, 2022
Yes, I posted this a while back, and the product still is incredibly viable, even as tech marches forward! Time to pick one of these up and share with your immediate family, and all of the connected households. I love to scan old photos. Seriously, being able to scan negatives and slide from my archives […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on A Perfect Way To Share Family Memories – Epson FastFoto
Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022
When the Fuji X-H2, and X-H2s were announced, those of us who have been shooting with the X-T series, were asking: Where the HECK is the X-T5?? Well, your question has been answered, and you won’t have to wait too long to buy. This November, the X-T5 will be available at a price of about […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji X-T5 Launches + a SWEET 30mm Macro!
Tuesday, October 18th, 2022
We always hoped we get there. And now it looks like it’s almost in our hands: Fujifilm announces collaboration with Adobe to Offer the World’s First Camera-to-Cloud Native Integration for Digital Still Cameras The ability to shoot and wirelessly transmit RAW stills files and ProRes video, and to be able to edit within moments for […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on A Marriage Made in The Cloud – Fuji & Adobe Take Wireless Tethering to Whole New Level!
Thursday, September 8th, 2022
Fuji just announced its new X-H2, a 40.2MP camera, with a brand new New X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR sensor and the high-speed X-Processor 5. And why are there now a X-H2, And a X-H2s? 2 versions of the same camera with diff specs. I’ll give you some of the specs here, and at the end […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji Drops A 40MP, APS-C Camera – The X-H2: Is This The Right One For You?
Sunday, August 7th, 2022
The instant print game is pretty much owned by Fuji with the Instax line of printers. That is not an opinion, it a fact. As an Instax enthusiast forever, I love the instant gratification of the print in hand, and while I enjoy all the phone filters I can use to digitally share photos, there […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji Instax Mini Link II – Perfect Companion to Your Smartphone
Sunday, July 3rd, 2022
Living in A Powder Keg and Giving Off Sparks!
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Yes, Look UP! How To Get Some Great Shots Of The Fireworks!
Sunday, June 26th, 2022
Sure, the recent airline snafus, and gas prices have been putting a massive damper on the whole travel process. But we’re getting out there, and maybe, just maybe, some solid tech can make it a better experience. And in this post, there will be a surprise bit of kit at the end, that you may […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on On The Road Again, Time To Get The Tech Sorted
Tuesday, May 31st, 2022
Don’t worry! there are so many great improvements on this camera that your stills will also be thankful! Honestly, it’s blending of the still and motion requirements you need today, into a solid new body. Let’s dive in: So we’ve (me!) have been waiting for this for years! I love the X-H1 and it’s always […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji Takes Care of The Video Community With New X-HS2
Sunday, May 8th, 2022
When there is a need, there is a solution. Like most of us, I’m always looking for a simpler and lightweight solution to securing my camera to get that perfect angle for a shot. It could be for a closeup of a flower, or just attaching a camera where there is no place for a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Platypod Extreme – The Mother of em all!
Monday, February 28th, 2022
Felt so good to be back on a set: 75 crew, 25+ talent, 8 person Stills crew, plus 14 clients and agency folks. (yes, I produce commercials) Flew across country, and set up in the hotel conference room for wardrobe fittings (remote), meetings and a pre-production meeting. Part remote/part IRL First thing up – let’s […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review – OWC for the Traveler
Monday, February 7th, 2022
I have to say, when I get a new product to review, I like to look around and see what some others may have said. Well, It was edifying. When someone starts to compare an Instant camera to a high end phone or interchangeable lens cameras, they are missing the point. As a historical reference, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO- Get Back to Some Fun!
Sunday, January 16th, 2022
Or what I learned from personal exploration in this new space You’ve been hearing about NFTs for awhile now, and wondering what it means to you. I started the research last spring, and have finally come to the step of setting my site, with NFTs for sale! Wanted to figure it out in the real […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on ABCs of NFTs
Sunday, January 2nd, 2022
Happy New Year! As we careen headlong into 2022, you may be thinking about straightening out your collection of digital photos. I’m talking about finding the image you knew you had, but can’t pull it up. It could be your family holiday images, or a music festival you shot. Like when someone said: Do you […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on How To Find those Missing Photos the Easy Way
Wednesday, December 22nd, 2021
I hope you got in on all of the black Friday, cyber Monday, and green Monday sales. There are more sales coming but getting a physical gift under the tree is a bit tough now, unless you pick it up, wrap it and deliver it. So……. Here are some items that photographers at various levels […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide Part 7 – Gifts You Don’t Need to Wrap
Sunday, December 12th, 2021
I hope you did most of your heavy lifting shopping, and scored the deal you wanted/needed! I’ll bet there are some more markdowns coming, so keep an eye on your shopping list. However, after wrapping and shipping, you kno there are some last minute things you should add to the stockings, or wrap up for […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2021 – Part 6 : The Gifts Your Forgot to Get!
Friday, November 26th, 2021
Ok, let’s talk about audio. You know that it’s 50% of your content, unless it’s bad. Then it’s 80% First recco is this beautiful audio recorder, called Tula The form factor alone should be enough to convince you to carry with you. You can set the mic to omni for a conversation or even add […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Part 4 – Audio
Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021
Before continuing down listing of the selected items for the gift guide, figured I’d share a list of links to some of the better companies with great Black Friday deals, to give you a head start before things run out! Many of the items have been called out in the first 3 Holiday Gift Guides! […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on All Black Friday Content Creator Links in One Place!
Monday, November 22nd, 2021
Every photographer I know has multiple bags, for multiple situations. Or is it truly a Goldilocks and the 3 bears situation? What looks great, may not be best in practice . And how do you buy one for someone as a gift? Just got notice that Peak Design is having a 30% off sale!! After […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide-Part 3 : Bags, Straps & Supports
Saturday, November 20th, 2021
OK, I don’t usually share just one item on the gift guide series, but due to the time frame, here we go: The Fuji Instax Wide printer, is one of the most fun and useful tools I have seen this season. What I love about this product is the personalized creativity you can add to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide – Part 2: Instant Fun!
Friday, November 19th, 2021
Are you back on the road, or still rocking the home office? Or maybe slowly getting back to the office? We have some products to call out for the gift guide this year no matter where you are working from! For the content creators we have add-ons for your laptops when out in the field: […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Annual Holiday Gift Guide – Part 1 : Road Warrior or Home Office?
Monday, October 11th, 2021
It served me well. For over 10 years my Mac Pro tower was my daily companion. Photo editing, video editing, and those oh so long hours looking at social posts I didn’t need in my life. With 2 screens and the ability to plug in a myriad of external drives, it was an upgradable powerhouse. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Day The Computer Died…
Monday, September 6th, 2021
As most TikTok creators know, a good ring light gives you that semi-flat, appealing light that makes everyone look great. Even without filters! You needed to have access to AC for your light, which meant you stayed close to home. Lume Cube, the people who brought you the laptop light that EVERYONE uses for Zoom […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Tik Tok Creators, Time to Light up The World!
Monday, April 12th, 2021
This year, the pandemic did not slow down product development. As a matter of fact, it birthed new product categories, all related to to Covid. Getting to see, and handle, products that were yet to hit market, was all over zoom. So all samples to be shipped, and evaluated. Shipping has been an issue all […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on A Great New Product You May Not Need In A Year
Tuesday, February 2nd, 2021
Is anyone’s eybeballs swimming from all of the zoom calls? Or perhaps you you love a more comfortable chair? I’m totally with you. After doing all of the connections with your co-horts, maybe it’s time to create something for your audience. You know who I’m talking about: your friends, your followers, heck, maybe even your […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on After The Zoom Call, Get Creative! Lume Cube Helps Put It Together
Sunday, January 17th, 2021
I’ll admit it. There is a holy grail search for the best camera for the street photographers. Mirrorless is a winner from my perspective, and yes, size matters. True, there will forever be discussion, comparisons, preferences. Potato, Potatoe. ( Fuji, Sony, Canon, Nikon, Leica are all great choices!) Tried a bunch, and I’m a Fuji […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review – Fuji S-10 FTW In The Street
Wednesday, December 16th, 2020
My fave walkaround bag is the Peak Design Everyday Sling 10 L. Some of the other bags in the line serve me well as combo office/gear bags (what’s an office?), or a perf weekender backpack. The design touches on this bag, showed me that workers know how to make the right kind of camera bag. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Peak Design Goes Mobile With Some New Tools
Wednesday, December 16th, 2020
How are you doing out there? No crowded lines at the stores, winter is coming, and you may have tricked out your home work environment just right. Screen fatigue is real, and hopefully you get a chance to step away and create some content! Here is a wrap-up of all of the gift guide suggestion […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2020 Wrap Up!
Monday, December 14th, 2020
This item just came in from the folks at Mophie. The Juice Pack Connect! You know em, you love, and they have been taking care of your mobile battery needs for years. Now that smartphones can charge wirelessly, many of us have been depending on A: an external battery with a cable, or B: laying […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on No More Dingle Dangle With Your Phone battery!
Monday, November 30th, 2020
As we start the headlong process into the holiday season, Cyber Monday is considered the next big deal day after Black Friday. We have looked around to see what may be a good choice for your hard earned dollars and came up with these: Platypod– this is a set of tools that should be in […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2020 – Cyber Monday Edition!
Wednesday, November 25th, 2020
As we go headlong into the holiday season, and you have able to gather your thoughts, perhaps you figured that others may like to hear what’s on your mind. Yes, we are talking about PODCASTS!! It’s a perfect outlet for yourself, your insta followers, and your perspective clients. The following gear selections are reccos based […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2020 # 3 – Have A Listen!
Monday, November 23rd, 2020
You’ve upgraded your social content, right? In these crazy times you’ve realized that video gets more traction than straight still posts. It’s true, as I’m writing a non moving post. So let’s look at some of the highlights from this past year in the video game, and see what may be right for you, or […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2020 #2 – Motion Gear
Sunday, November 22nd, 2020
HI- How are you doing as we go headlong into the holiday season in an unprecedented (yep,I said it!) time? I’m hoping that the time spent working from home has made you think, or rethink the best ways and tools you need. We’ll start this years series of gift reccos with items that can help […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2020 # 1 – WFH Edition
Tuesday, November 17th, 2020
Working from home is where we are at now, and you may have found that the lightweight slim laptop you have from the office was great on the road. But you’re not on the road these days. Being able to add some versatility, additional peripherals, is what you need right now. How about a larger […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Muscle Up Your Wimpy Laptop
Monday, November 9th, 2020
Yep, wireless charging for your phone is pretty cool. Just laying it on top of a pad with no cables does seem like an easier deal. And with multi-use charging pads so you can charge your watch, air pods and phone at once is super useful. Until you wake up and your phone hasn’t charged. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Latest Wireless Charging Mat From Mophie – No More Jiggling!!
Monday, October 26th, 2020
Truth be told, I don’t ski, skateboard, sail, or bike. I DO snorkel a coupla times a year. SO why would I want or need an action cam? Good question. And the answers are many: time lapse being a huge one, having a small, quality, capture vid camera for the beach, body mounted cam for […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Affordable Action Cam With ALL Accessories Included!
Friday, October 16th, 2020
How are you doing out there? In NYC, we are starting to get back out into the world of production! and not just with Zoom! Physically. 2 weeks ago, I was live on set for the first time in months. Whew! Before the whole shut down happened, I discovered the best way to carry my […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Best Way To Carry Your Audio Gear – Orca Wins!
Wednesday, October 14th, 2020
So, who out there can shift camera systems whenever a new body comes out? Yep, thought so. I was raised on Nikon, and have a ton of amazing lenses, plus bodies, that i’m not sure when/if i’ll ever sell. Yes, since Sony and Canon have done major releases recently, you have to put a line […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Brings the Z Series to the Next Gen – Time to Order?
Wednesday, October 14th, 2020
I’m definitely a problem v. solutions kind of person, and look at gear to make life easier. And make better content. The new goal/problem was to find a small, powerful source of light, to add onto my Fuji, and be able to get interviews at trade shows. What was needed was a nice, compact, source […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Lume Cube – It’s About The Quality of Light
Monday, August 17th, 2020
Are we finally seeing some good times in the wild? I mean, our neighborhoods? In my neighborhood, in NYC, the plywood has come down from the stores, the streets are alive with the outdoor restaurants. I have been taking the subways, buses, and a coupla taxi’s. The taxi drivers have to remember the mask deal, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Let’s Go For A Walk!
Tuesday, July 21st, 2020
It’s the way things are going: either go smaller with mirrorless, or go big with 100MP medium format. Even today, Canon announced the end of the 5D line. Nikon has committed to the full frame mirrorless system, and with the new, Z5, has brought the line-up to a sweet affordable price.
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Adds New FF Mirrorless To The Line-Up
Sunday, July 5th, 2020
First of all, do you use a gimbal? great way to get smooth pro video with your DSLR or Mirrorless cameras. After going through a bunch (will be selling the left behind gimbals) I’m partial to the Ronin SC. Coupled with a Fuji X-T4, and a SmallRig ball joint with a Feelworld monitor (I know, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Best Gimbal Hack I’ve Used!
Thursday, July 2nd, 2020
WFH is the order of the day now, and a return to an office seems to be a ways off. So now you are spending even more time in front of your screen, than ever before. Intently concentrating, making sure you are engaged, or looking like you are, forces you to stay on that keyboard! […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Your Stand Up Desk Just Got Portable!
Wednesday, June 24th, 2020
There is a 20% sale on if you’d like to get one of these! I have always skipped generations on cameras as I feel that I’ll get the life out of my current bodies before I’ll see enough upgrades. Glass is forever, but the little computers we hold in our hands (ok, sensor upgrades) will […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Best Way to Top Off Your New Camera
Sunday, June 14th, 2020
Yes, the portable battery powered LED light market offers sooooo many options. You can honestly get the perfect light for what you require to illuminate. Top of mind for me right now is small, portable, bi-color, with a decent battery life. LumeCube has been a player in what I’d call the action LED light market. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on I See The Light: Packs small, Plays BIG!
Thursday, May 21st, 2020
OK, now that things are opening up, you can probably leave your house and get some air! Whew! Do it smart and safe, please! Part of that is making sure you carry your own power for your phone. I think it’ll be awhile till you can plug in at the local restaurant or pub. And […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Battery Power For Every Situation. Like Outdoors!
Sunday, April 26th, 2020
When you’ve done the Zoom calls, binged on all the recco TV shows, perhaps it’s time to take some solace in a good music listen. I’m not talking about a podcast. Nope. Takes too much of your attention. Talking about some of your favorite music. Filtered through more than your ear buds. Over ear. Some […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on For a Little Peace, Listen to This
Sunday, March 29th, 2020
I had about 4 diff posts ready to go, and then the Covid-19 hit and I kept revising as the intensity increased. Do you really need to know about the latest Spider wrist strap right now. Probably not. It’s the best, but you may have other things on your mind. And they have new products […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Ok, So Now What?
Wednesday, February 26th, 2020
It’s always a tough call when there are product leaks, and you know what you hope for in a new model of a camera. I do love the Fuji line, and the files are beautiful, so when this new X-T4 was announced, I had a wish list. and like all things in life, I got […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji Unveils The New X-T4 – Is It all You Wanted?
Thursday, January 23rd, 2020
This year at CES we saw so many earpods, headphones, and wireless chargers, the market is so crowded, and you have to figure out what to get. And you know that in a year there will be better, faster, smaller. So what do you go for now? Let’s start with the wireless charger category. Does […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on CES 2020 – Look Ma, No Wires!
Monday, January 13th, 2020
So you just got those amazing BT earbuds/ headset, and you not only sound good, but you look good, too! Now you are starting some travel, maybe for business, maybe for vacation, and it would sure be cool to use those sweet wireless headphones on your flight. But if you are getting on a plane, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Best Travel Accessory!
Thursday, December 12th, 2019
I’ve said it before: Audio is 50% of your video. Unless it’s bad, then it’s 80%! It’s true that people can consume marginal video if the sound is good. If sound is bad they are gone. Solid gone. This part of the gift guide has some options you should consider to increase the peace on […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2019 – Part 2 – Can You Hear Me Now?
Tuesday, December 10th, 2019
Black Friday has come and gone, Cyber Monday is in the rearview, Green Monday is a recent memory. The deals will continue, however, as there is a shortened shopping season. So, let’s start with some ideas for your photo video gift giving, or your end of year purchases for you self. Self Santa, as it […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2019 #1 !
Sunday, November 24th, 2019
We all have year end buy targets for what we love, and tools we need. I know some things I usually look for are deals on media cards, SSD drives, bags, maybe some glass, and usually something that may just be for fun, but may spark some new ideas. As i said, will be adding […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Pre Gift Guide: Black Friday/Cyber Monday Photo-Video Deals
Sunday, November 10th, 2019
OK, I usually post the holiday gift guide closer to Turkey day, and the flurry of Black Friday offers. I just wanted to share this list now as it’s a product line that you want to take to all of the parties and gatherings leading up to that. Instant prints. As old as the first […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Best Choices For Instant Prints – 2019
Wednesday, October 9th, 2019
sorry about the pun. But it’s true. Nikon has heard loud and clear from their customer base that they need a good reason to upgrade from their smartphone. Here you go. The New Nikon Z50! A well priced , about $850 body only, this DX option to give you the high quality Nikkor lens designs, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on The Weight Is Over : Nikon Adds DX Mirrorless To The Line-up
Sunday, July 21st, 2019
I first saw one of these tiny lights displayed at Photo Plus Expo, submerged in a tank of water. As an ad guy, it got my attention as a marketing move, and problem/solution product. It worked! OK, for me it solved a ton of problems: The Lume Cube is a great little light to add […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Versatile Pocket Light: Lume Cube – Get A Couple!
Sunday, July 14th, 2019
It’s true. Every time I’m packing for a shoot, I think about the wasted space in between the legs of a tripod. Fine, I have to get a life. Not such a big deal, right? Maybe you have a case, like the one that some other manufacturers give out. Or you purchased a “tripod” case […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on How Compact Can Your Tripod Get?
Wednesday, July 3rd, 2019
Living in A Powder Keg and Giving Off Sparks!
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey | Comments Off on Light Em Up!! Photographing Fireworks Guide
Wednesday, June 12th, 2019
OK, no sooner do I write about the SQ20 Insta, then the new LiPlay gets announced! This one uses the smaller mini Instax film, which makes the camera a smaller unit. It still will store the digital file in the camera itself, while also using a Micro SD, for more storage. That audio part? You […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Print audio on a photo??
Tuesday, June 11th, 2019
Take only pictures, leave only footprints. And maybe an instant photo. When Polaroids ruled the earth, and we were much younger, an instant photo was the coin of the social realm. Yep, gather with your friends and family, and share a moment people could see AND hold immediately. The Polaroid Land company has ceased to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Connect to Your Subject In An Instant!
Monday, March 4th, 2019
Many years ago, my Lowel Tote-A Lights were a go-to. Quartz lighting, compact, lightweight, and great color. And warm to the touch Well, that was then. The new upgrade to LED has a some of the same greatness: Solid build, PERFECT color (5600º), and versatility Barn doors top and bottom, let you further shape the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on ProLighting from Lowel
Thursday, February 14th, 2019
A few years ago it was clear: mirrorless cameras were the future, and only getting better. As a long time Nikon user, the double DSLR bodies, multi lens, music shoots, were getting heavier that I wanted to carry. Enter mirrorless. I went Fuji. And then…… ……Nikon did what I wished for. A solid Full Frame […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Nikon Z Series – Why I’m Staying in the Family
Wednesday, November 21st, 2018
There are photo books that should be in everyone’s library, and there are photo books that may just pique the interest of the giftee. At the end of this post is a book that you may never buy, but may be fascinated with the design. First up- If you, or a photographer you know, is […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2018 – Part 4: The Books
Monday, November 19th, 2018
This just in! More Holiday Gift Guides coming, but needed to share this hot off the press! Our friends at ThinkTankPhoto just announced their Black Friday specials. It will put its popular Airport Advantage Plus rolling camera bag on sale at 50% over Black Friday weekend. In addition, several of its most popular camera bags […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Black Friday Sale on Camera Bags From ThinkTank!
Friday, November 16th, 2018
OK, the first item up is what I believe is the gear purchase of the year: Gimbals! Why is it the gear of the year? WE ALL NEED SMOOTH FOOTAGE!!! The Drone has been dominating the new gear of previous years, it’s true. As a commercial producer, I know the uses of a solid pro […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2018 – Part 3! Let’s Talk Video
Thursday, November 15th, 2018
How many camera bags do you own? Honestly, you just need to a bag that’s right for the occasion. Yep, you will need more than 1! A new category on the scene is the Weekender type. Half backpack luggage, half camera bag. There have been 2 main bags that have come to us in this […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2018 – Part 2! Bags, Bags, Bags!
Tuesday, November 13th, 2018
And here we go! This year we are going to start on the small side. Things that help you do what you love most. And ANY photographer will find as a useful gift. Links to purchase/read more are in the name and the photo. First up: Platypod This simple, ingenious, mounting plate should be in […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2018 – Part 1!
Monday, October 15th, 2018
Do you post to social media much? Yeah, I know the answer. On the daily. Probably multiple times in a day. Adobe has now introduced one of the best, time saving tools you can get! With a cross platform, intuitive editing tool, you just got some extra sleep, or the time to create more content. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Latest News from Adobe MAX – My Favorite New Addition to The Creative Suite
Thursday, October 4th, 2018
The quality of smartphone video is steadily increasing. 4K? You bet. Log files? ok-dokey. The tools you now have at your disposal allow you to enter into the immediacy of social media, as well as longer form storytelling. But you need some mobile specific filmmaking tools, along with a great story and direction, to fully […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Your Next Purchase For Mobile FilmMaking
Friday, September 21st, 2018
These just came out, and have to pass it on. Think Tank Photo Emergency Rain Covers! If you have ever got caught shooting the rain, this has GOT to be in your bag. When I moved to the East coast from California, I got a whole new appreciation for how long I had to keep […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Think Tank Keeps You Dry In the Nick of Time!
Sunday, September 16th, 2018
Bags, Bags, Bags! Every photographer has multiples, and each one serves a purpose, and honestly, specific to a venue you may be shooting in. Recently, Peak Design, who has been building and designing some quality bags, straps and camera holders, has moved into the world of luggage. Not your typical luggage, but designed with a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Peak Design – Getting Ready for The Weekend
Sunday, September 16th, 2018
HitCase has come up with a great solution to the underwater smartphone! You know, I waited until the new iPhones were announced 9/12, to see what the new features were. And the sizes! Apple has added 2 meters deep, and 30 min underwater, as a new feature of the latest Phones, which is pretty darn […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on HitCase – Under the Sea with Your Phone
Monday, September 10th, 2018
It’s always been time for smoother, tracking shots. Handheld with image stabilization is cool, although not for most things. I have been on the hunt for a right solution for a one-man operation for years. I’ve bought them, and sold them. Back when I started Photoinduced in 2005, it was a Steadicam as first choice. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Gimbal Game – Smooth As Silk
Thursday, September 6th, 2018
The summer is over, and the new products are coming on strong! Today, Fujifilm announced their latest addition to the line-up, the X-T3. full disclosure I am in the FujiFilm system and have been with them since the 100T, XT-1, X-T2, and X-H1. Lotta love for this system. Is this new body a revelation? Nope. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Fuji X-T3 – Follow Up To A Leader
Wednesday, September 5th, 2018
With about a week between them, Canon and Nikon are back in the race. Or has Sony already won? It’s Canon’s turn now with the EOS R mirrorless. So what’s different?
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Canon Reveals Their Mirrorless System!
Friday, August 24th, 2018
here are some images taken right from the card, no post work, no cropping. Yes, converted to jpg for posting. Please Note: all images were captured on a pre-production model. Did not have much time to learn and customize the camera, so these are pretty raw. This first one has the top people of Nikon […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Nikon Z7 : Straight Outta Camera
Wednesday, August 22nd, 2018
It’s true. After a loong time of teasing, Nikon has entered the mirrorless market with not one, but 2 models. Full Frame! 45.7 MP and 24.5 MP (above photos are all Z7 model) Before getting into some of the specs, let’s talk about some of the Nikon legacy that you need to know with these […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Nikon Mirrorless – They’re Real, And They’re Spectacular!
Tuesday, July 24th, 2018
So the rumors are true! Nikon has listened to the consumer and have a full frame mirrorless camera in development, along with a series of specially fitted lenses. What’s that you say? When, and how much? good questions. no answers. One thing that was in the press announcment was the fact that they are also […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Enters The Full Frame Mirrorless World! Soon…..
Tuesday, December 19th, 2017
Sure, you may have hit some sales, and had the basics, well now we bring you some things that have been tried and tested for your gifting pleasure. Apple AirPods First thing I said when i saw these was that I didn’t even own them, and I’ve already lost them! OK, So I bought them, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide Part 3 – The Other Items
Sunday, December 10th, 2017
Oh, sure, we all have them, and most of us have multiples. Do you need another? Probably. So what was new this year?Plenty. So here are some of the faves from Peak Design, ThinkTank, SKB, Tenba, and BlackRapid (check out BR special 20% discount code below!) Peak Design has been coming on strong with 2 […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2017: Part 2 – Camera Bags
Sunday, August 27th, 2017
You can’t expect all of your gear to last forever. You buy a new camera every few years, and I’ll bet you have more than 2 camera bags. Can we talk about one bit of gear that gets used daily? It’s your camera strap. It’s time to check it out, and make sure it’s up […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Black Rapid : Check Yourself, Before You Wreck Yourself
Wednesday, August 23rd, 2017
Nikon, I just can’t quit you! Don’t think I ever will. This new, long awaited D850, coming in at an MSRP of about $3300, (wasn’t that what the D810 was?) clocks in with some amazing specs. OK, first some photos.
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on The New Nikon D850 – 45.7 MP of Goodness
Sunday, August 13th, 2017
When going to a local shoot, what do you feel is the best way to carry your gear? For speed, a backpack usually is the ticket. When the shoot is done, and you’re packed and on the move, a roller would be sweet. ThinkTank Photo has now upgraded my favorite StreetWalker BackPack, with wheels! Here’s […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on ThinkTank Photo : BackPack or Roller? YES!
Monday, July 3rd, 2017
I love to scan old photos. Seriously, being able to scan negatives and slide from my archives is one of my favorite evening pastimes. Set it up, scan and store. It almost becomes a treasure hunt, especially with the negatives. One thing I was not scanning much were all of the 4×6 photos in my […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Epson FastFoto : Bulk Scan Precious Family Photos Without Sending Overseas
Monday, June 19th, 2017
You have the new camera, and have figured out that the upgrade in your photographs is massive. How do you take the next steps? Want to crush it in the photo contests, and social media? Or maybe you just want to be the master of your photo domain? The camera manual has some good info, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Focus & Filter : Great Deal to Step Up Your Photography – Under $15!
Wednesday, May 31st, 2017
It’s official! Summertime has begun. Nikon has introduced an update to their excellent outdoor camera, newly named COOLPIX W300. It’s waterproof, shockproof, dustproof. Oh yeah, and freeze proof for your wintry excursions. 16 megapixels, and 4K UHD video. With Wi-Fi, it’s a pretty easy share to your phone, via an app, and posting all over […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Starts the Summer Going Wet & Wide
Tuesday, May 9th, 2017
I’m definitely a problem v. solution person. Need starts the search for the right gear solution. And like many of us (all of us?) have a plethora of camera bags. the most fickle of gear options. So, when my well planned flight from an event, went awry and I couldn’t put my ThinkTank Airport International […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Maybe The Best Photojournalist Traveling Bag!
Tuesday, April 11th, 2017
You’ve been looking for that upgrade from the phone, and not sure if mirrorless is the way you want to go? Nikon is bringing out a new DX format DSLR this summer, that could make your wallet smile. With an incredible range of ISO 100 up to 1.64 million (yep, that’s right), your low light […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Gets Ready to Intro New D7500 DSLR : Legacy Tech, Lighter Weight
Monday, February 20th, 2017
What photo problems makes you dive down the rabbit hole of possible solutions? How many times have you late night googled a range of terms to find the right answer to a specific problem? Too many times to count, for me. One of the recent trips down the information highway was road mapped by a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review – Tether Tools Case Relay – Long Term UNINTERRUPTED Power!
Sunday, January 29th, 2017
It’s something that you don’t want to think about: Media Cards. Pop it into your camera, and shoot. Because I don’t want to think about it, I have chosen one brand to use, and stick with it. Lexar Yes, you can scan over Ebay and Amazon, and find all kinds of brands that may be […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review – Why I Depend on Lexar
Tuesday, December 27th, 2016
There are so many way to control how you press the shutter on your camera, I had to do a deep dive into the world, and try to make some sense of it all. 3 of the units reviewed here: CamRanger, Case Air, and Pulse. The 4th, Manfrotto Digital Director, is way bigger and shown […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review : All About Remote Control
Monday, December 5th, 2016
It’s a constant search for the Holy grail of the best light modifier. We’ll just talk about the speedlight range here. Since not a whole lot new has come on the market since last year, that should adjust your thinking. I’m sure you’ll want to try at least one of these units, and perhaps add them […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2016 – Part 5 : The Light Modifiers
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Oh, sure, you can buy the right cameras, lenses, microphones, grippage, etc., for your video productions Then you get into post. Make sure that the video files you are ingesting have been treated to the standards of the industry, from the time you start shooting, to your editing workflow. You know what they say: GIGO […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review : i1 Filmmaker Kit – Get Your Color Right!
Wednesday, November 23rd, 2016
There may be supposed “doorbusters” on Black Friday & Cyber Monday, with special pricing, but on high ticket items it’s usually last years model. What you should look for are deals on Media Cards, software, and batteries. I always stock up on that day. Of course, the majors photo dealers will all have some kind […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide Part 4: Black Friday Best Deals
Tuesday, November 22nd, 2016
Is your video game up to snuff? Whether it’s 4K, or just HD, there are so many ways to go, and tools to use. Here is a short list of some things that you may want to find under the tree. If you are going the DSLR or Mirrorless route, I have one word for […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide Part 3: The Video Gear
Monday, November 21st, 2016
Camera bags are pretty personal, so you may want to pick one for a wish list. However, here are some good choices to look at. My top pick across the entire line is ThinkTankPhoto. Designed by working pros, this brand has everything you need, and built to last. From the Airport International, to the Street […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide Part 2 : So Many Bags…
Sunday, November 20th, 2016
Whether you are looking for a right gift for a photographer, tips for your wish list for others, or just need to get some year-end upgrades, I hope the next days of the latest edition of the Gift Guide have something for you. Let’s get to it! First of all: Straps! Do you carry your […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2016 – Part 1: Starting With The Basics
Tuesday, November 8th, 2016
At every photo trade show, I search for innovation and design improvement from all the manufacturers. And of course that is their goal as well. Sometimes it’s inches, sometimes revolutionary. One of my favorite new products comes from the folks at Tether Tools®. They see a photographers needs, and rush in to solve the problem. […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Tether Tools Case Relay – Location Time-Lapse Tool Made Right!
Wednesday, October 19th, 2016
It’s like the Holy Grail: what is the perfect camera bag? Don’t want to shock you, but there is no one bag that is best for all circumstances. But you already know that. Look at all of your camera bags.I kinda feel it’ like shoes. The right bag for the right job. Peak Design is […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Peak Design Sling Bag – Is This The Mirrorless Bag Of Your Dreams?
Monday, October 17th, 2016
One of my workflow mainstays, is the Lexar HUB. You know, the Thunderbolt cabled, modular tower, that allows you to stack up to 4 varying media card modules (SDHC™/SDXC™ UHS I and UHS-II, CompactFlash® UDMA 7, XQD™ 2.0, CFast™ and CFast 2.0, and microSDHC™/microSDXC™ UHS-I and UHS-II, plus a module for USB, so you can […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Lexar HUB SSD – The Tower is Now Complete!
Sunday, October 16th, 2016
The new standard in camera straps is the BlackRapid line. I’m a convert for sure, and now depend on them. The single, or double, are great tools, but my new favorite became the Yeti. Basically 2 straps coming off of one harness. I just keep working toward getting lighter. So when they announced that there […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on BlackRapid Update : Lighter, Stronger, Quieter
Sunday, October 2nd, 2016
The newest camera in the line-up was coming out. The demand was high, so I got on a waiting list. On the day it was to start shipping, Hunt’s Photo was one step ahead, the magical box appeared at my doorstep. In hand and ready for an out of town assignment to check it out, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Hunt’s Photo : Superior Service For Your Photo Needs
Monday, September 5th, 2016
The summer memories are about to live on online, and you’ve been working your phone like crazy. Filling up the internal memory and the cloud is getting hazy. You may be, as I was, looking for a simple way to back up your phone, and transfer images/vids easily. I told you about the sweet Lexar […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Filling Up The Phone: Now What?
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016
When someone is starting out on photography, it is wise for the camera manufacturer to give them all of the tools to succeed, and enjoy the ride. Yes, it’s addictive, so the first experience should be very pleasurable. The new Nikon D3400 boasts an ISO range topping out at 25,600, over 24MP sensor, and a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Adds A New Entry Level DSLR With Kit Lenses You Actually Want
Sunday, August 14th, 2016
There are certain pieces of gear that have become a standards for shooting, and sometimes, these are pieces of kit that I never thought would work. Like BlackRapid straps. When these first came out, it seemed like a plethora of new camera straps were hitting the market. Lots of companies figured that they had the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on These Are A Few of My Favorite Things : Bits and Bobs
Thursday, August 11th, 2016
Here’s the deal: the next version of the iPhone is rumored to have no headphone jack. That’s right, your favorite headphones will either need an adaptor for the lighting jack, or perhaps share a dual jack so you can also charge the phone. Lot’s of added goods for your listening pleasure. OR…. you get wireless, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on You’re Gonna Need Em’ : Best BlueTooth Earbuds ?
Monday, August 8th, 2016
Why do I always have a set of Olloclip lenses and accessories in my bag? They are small, lightweight, smart designs, and have multiple purposes. The glass is sweet, especially the 4-1 which slips easily onto an iPhone. Macro is having a huge comeback and iPhone extreme close-up photos are now billboards,and you can get […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Olloclip : Packs Small, Plays Big
Sunday, August 7th, 2016
After going through the 4 messenger bags, in the real world, and for a more extended time that just a load-in and see what happens, there is a lesson learned. One we all know:
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Messenger Bag Roundup : Which Bag Came Up On Top?
Monday, August 1st, 2016
Let’s have a look at the 4th and final messenger bag in the round-up. The only way to truly review these bags is to use them, and that takes time. And I use them in different circumstances, to see how the physicality works under real world conditions. This bag, the Tenba DNA 13 has a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Messenger Bag Roundup Part 4 : Tenba Messenger DNA 13
Friday, July 29th, 2016
Foto-Care in NYC held a special event on 7/28, with the brand new Fuji X-T2. Only operational unit in NYC. I brought along an X-T1, for comparison, with a 56 1.2. There were a few of us waiting to handle the one unit, so didn’t have a ton of time. Did shoot some frames, see […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fuji X-T2 : Hands On First Look
Wednesday, July 6th, 2016
The only way to truly figure out what camera bag works best for you is to determine the gear you need (want) to have with you, when you leave the house/office. Is it a full DSLR rig, with 2 bodies and all the glass? Or get small with a mirrorless system? Messenger bags take care […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Messenger Bag Roundup Part 3 : ThinkTank Photo – CityWalker 20
Tuesday, June 21st, 2016
If you are not using the Creative Cloud By Adobe, I just don’t know what to say. For $119 a year, you get the best tools for your photographic life, designed by a company whose base level DNA is digital imaging. Seriously. They have a new round of updates, and some things you can’t live […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Adobe CC Updates: Next Level Additions!
Sunday, June 19th, 2016
Ok, you saw the value proposition, now let’s have a look at the higher priced spread: The Peak Design 13″ Messenger Bag Coming on the heels of a very successful launch of the 15″ messenger bag, the public asked for a smaller more manageable version, and the company listened. This is a beautiful, well made, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Messenger Bag Roundup Part 2 : Peak Design 13″ Messenger
Monday, June 13th, 2016
I know, I know. Photographers have soooo many bags, why do we need another? Because you just do. The right bag for the right assignment. There is no one perfect camera bag. And why a new bag? Well, depending on your assignment, you may not want to show up at the gig with a nasty […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Messenger Bag Round-Up : Part 1 – The 24/7 Traffic Collection
Monday, May 16th, 2016
Packs small, plays big. How would you like to be able to shoot, edit, and BACKUP your GoPro or drone videos with only a pocketful of tech? Take a look at this set-up: I take a real world imaging problem, and try to find the right tech solutions. In this case, it’s a matter of […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Lexar + GoPro : Video Studio In Your Hand
Thursday, April 21st, 2016
Photographers/videographers: Bags and Cases can be the most important part of your kit. Getting the gear to and from a gig, safely, is key. And traveling by plane can be the most crazy, as you try to get the window or early boarding surcharge so you get an overhead compartment for your carry on, main […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Pelican Air – Now Up To 40% Lighter Cases
Sunday, April 3rd, 2016
Waiting is the worst. Waiting for your media card to read/write after shooting off a burst of shots, or waiting for your media card to load into your computer after, so you can edit. We have 2 main issues with waiting: 1: the frustration about losing a shot because your card was still writing your […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Lexar + PhotoMechanic = Supercharged Workflow!
Friday, February 26th, 2016
You know that Olloclip lenses for the iPhone, have been in my bag since they first came out. Having well made, actual glass lenses that perfectly attach to my phone, and have a sweet range of focal lengths, is a kind of a photographic security blanket for me, while shooting with my iPhone. Telephoto, wide […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Olloclip Lenses Featured on The History Channel
Monday, February 1st, 2016
Canon Announces New Flagship DSLR, The 1DX, Mark II, coming in April
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Canon Announces EOS 1DX, Mark II : Coming Soon
Monday, January 11th, 2016
Sure, Star Wars: The Force Awakens was shot in Film. So was Hateful 8. And people are buying turntables again. And vinyl has been on the rise for awhile. What is going on? A return to analog is creeping back into our digital lives. But why? Has there been enough pixels and cloud stored images? […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Kodak Super 8 FILM Camera : Same As It Ever Was?
Sunday, January 10th, 2016
(photo album of CES 2016 here) I like to think of CES as a film festival. The majors come out with a lot of glitz & glamour, plus loud fanfare and pretty packaging dressing it all up. The press releases will tout only the best parts, just like what surrounds any large scale movie release. […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on CES 2016 Part 3 : Just Like A Film Festival – the Majors & Indies
Saturday, January 9th, 2016
(photo album of CES 2016 here) One of the major trends at CES this year, was the advent of high quality audio and a throwback to old listening habits, as in vinyl. Yes, records, with all of the pops and surface noise you knew before. Unless you kept them pristine and had a solid needle […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on CES 2016 Part 2: I Can Hear You Now, Better Than Ever!
Saturday, January 9th, 2016
(photo album of CES 2016 here) What a time in Vegas, and CES this week. Actually, the organization behind CES, Consumer Electronics Show, is changing it’s name to CTA, Consumer Technology Association from CEA, consumer electronics association. A much broader name as it encompasses a much bigger business base. And Consumer is the key word, […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on CES 2016 Part 1: VR & The Need To Track Our Sleep, Lives, Workouts
Tuesday, January 5th, 2016
This morning @CES, Nikon announced some crazy, new, incredible products. First up a new flagship, the Nikon D5. That’s the one with the insane ISO, and the speed you need for sports. Plus a new processor for the rest of us, but so much more. Touch screen, 20+mg sensor, 153 focus points, 12FPS, up to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon D5 has an ISO of 3,280,000 Yep, Millions!
Sunday, December 20th, 2015
Well, I’m sure a lot of things! And if you missed any of the previous posts, here you go: The Other Bits The Lighting Modifiers The Video Gear The Media The Books There is one item though, that I’ve been using this entire holiday season. To communicate with family 3000 miles away, of course I’m […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide #5 : What Did I Forget?
Sunday, December 6th, 2015
I’ve gone into some specific categories, and now after roaming the stores and web, can bring you some other choices that may add to the gifting of the season. Plus, here is an interesting site that has done the research on when the prime shopping days are for this month Mini Easel with photo postcards […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2015: The Other Bits
Sunday, November 29th, 2015
No question that every photographer is on the hunt for the holy grail of light modifiers for speed lights. these are the tools that mold and shape the raw light coming out of your flash. Usually too harsh, it can be softened, broadened, gelled, minimized, focused, bounced and otherwise made o do as you wish, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide – Part 4 : The Lighting Modifiers
Thursday, November 26th, 2015
OK, I hope the food coma has subsided, and you are now ready to shop in earnest. Just kidding. Today, I’ll concentrate on some great new tools out there for your video making pleasure, or to gift the action storytellers on your list. One of the most versatile, and quality products that is out there […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2015 Part 3 : Video Gear
Tuesday, November 24th, 2015
In a bold move, you can now add piece of mind to a Canon pro camera gift this season. At no additional cost! MELVILLE, NEW YORK, November 24, 2015 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, launched a promotion for CarePAK PLUS (which includes accidental damage protection) just in time for the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Canon Cameras Now Come With Free Insurance!
Monday, November 23rd, 2015
One of the best deals that Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer is media.
You know, what you shoot to, store on, transmit from.
Everyone needs it, and whether it’s a stocking stuffer, or a night of Chanukkah gift, this item is usually one of the best deals of the season.
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Holiday Gift Guide 2015 – Part 2 : The Media
Wednesday, November 18th, 2015
You are probably the chronicler of your family and friends. Even if you make your living with photography, you’ve been called on to capture the moments in your personal life. Chances are the request wasn’t a burden, but a joy. Chances are your early beginnings with photography was spent taking photos of those close to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Scan Your memories For The Holidays : Epson V850
Sunday, November 8th, 2015
As we head into another season of gifting, self gifting, replacing gear before year end, and buying new gear, your photographic spending dollars are precious. There will be coming reviews of gear I’ve found to be useful additions, or worth checking out, but first…. Let’s talk for a moment about the gear that just works […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on The Gear That Just Works, Day After Day
Sunday, October 25th, 2015
Pulitzer Prize Winning Photographer, Deanne Fitzmaurice knows what makes a great camera bag. As a working photographer and partner in the best camera bag company around, she knows how necessity is the mother of invention, and her company listens to you and the legions of photographers out there about their needs. And because of that […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Lily Deanne : The Latest Line of Camera Bags From ThinkTank Photo
Saturday, October 24th, 2015
Till next year, anyway. So why would you go to an event like this? You can buy your gear online from any number of places. You can hear photographers speak on youtube. You can learn incredible an amount of photo skills through way to many media formats. Not all great but, searchable. This is why: […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on PhotoPlus Expo 2015 Has Left the Building….
Monday, October 19th, 2015
This is probably the best overall Photo Event of the year.
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on PhotoPlus Expo – Working a Day Job? Come on Saturday!
Sunday, October 18th, 2015
The Solution: Epson V850 Scanner The Problem: As I was writing a post about one of my photo mentors, Dave Heath, I wanted to add a photo from a portrait session I did with him. It was all shot on 4×5 B&W, when I was a student and bigger was better. Maybe. I went to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Epson V850 Scanner – It’s Time To Digitize!
Wednesday, October 14th, 2015
There is a kind of Holy Grail of RingFlash lighting. It’s a somewhat specific, shadowless light, mainly thought of as beauty light. You are either tethered by cable to a strobe pack, like the ProFoto ring,or you are using your speedlight and a pop up, lightweight doughnut, like the Roundflash, or a hard unit like […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Flashpoint Ring Li-On Review : 400 WS Ringflash PLUS LED in One
Tuesday, October 13th, 2015
It’s a tough world out there in photo manufacturing these days. Everyone has an iPhone, and the compact camera market has taken a huge dive. But those who know photography know that these phones, while terrific, have severe limitations. Like depth in images, and digital file quality. I’ll always carry both an iPhone with some […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Canon Gets More Social With New Compacts
Monday, October 5th, 2015
Seems like a good time to get the iPad Pro! And get that Photoshop Fix app for free and see what you think! Modified Retouching Photoshop tools for iPad and iPhone. Access you images from the cloud (if you are on Adobe CC) At Adobe MAX 2015, the world’s leading creativity conference, Adobe (Nasdaq:ADBE) today […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Adobe Makes the Creative Cloud Even Better – Again!
Sunday, September 13th, 2015
Back to School, Pumpkin latte’s, Halloween candy, And Orange is all over the place! For me, the fall only means that one of the best photo gear expos is coming soon to NYC. All of us gear monkeys will be seeing, feeling, touching, buying, new kit that will make what we love even better. Sure,the […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on PhotoPlus Expo is Just Around the Corner…
Friday, September 11th, 2015
One of our favorite people, Katy Winn, who is back in NY this week for fashion week, and we’d like to share again a video we made with her. Watch, listen, and learn. And some insight from that same meeting: It’s always a good lesson to see what a working photographer uses to get the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Fashion Week Photography with Katy Winn – What’s In Her Bag?
Monday, August 3rd, 2015
The main lens on my Nikon is the 24-70mm, f/ 2.8. It serves me well. A little heavy, not the VR as in some others in the bag, but solid,crisp,and a worker. Add the 70-200 2.8, a 20mm in the bag and I’m home free. Then Nikon goes and does this: 3 New lens announcements: […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Updates The Standards..Plus!
Sunday, August 2nd, 2015
Lots of new products are coming out to help you shoot, share, transport, maintain, post. Here is a quick look at products from ThinkTank, LensPen, TinType, Epic. First up: My favorite roller bag, the ThinkTank Airport International, has always been a perfect, discreet, plain luggage looking way to travel with your gear. But when you […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Bits and Bobs – Fast Looks At Some New Gear
Tuesday, July 21st, 2015
The folks at iK Multimedia make some great products for the musician: mics, stands, pre-amps and apps, at a very affordable price for high quality recording tools. Sure, if you are the next Bob Dylan, this is great news. I’m not. I’m a curious tourist who like to capture life around me, either in stills […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on iRig Mic HD – Citizen Journalism On A Budget
Wednesday, July 1st, 2015
(This is a previously published article, but the fireworks haven’t changed, so it should all still hold true.) Living in A Powder Keg and Giving Off Sparks!
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on July 4th Fireworks Photos! A Simple Guide to Cool Images
Wednesday, June 24th, 2015
It’s the halfway mark to CES in Las Vegas, and CE WEEK has come to NYC. What that means is that a lot of new tech that may be useful for you as a photog, or just tech for your life is getting shown off. Haven’t put into a real world review situation yet, but […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on CE WEEK – A Fast Look at Some Cool New Tech
Monday, June 22nd, 2015
First of all, I’d like to say that Nikon has totally gotten the Wi-Fi right! The Nikon D750 works like crazy. After shooting for the day at the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, I was transferring the photos to my phone while on the subway and posting to social media, immediately. Right until the subway […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review: Nikon D750 – A Lot To Love In A Smaller Package
Monday, June 1st, 2015
New York City has changed the way I carry my gear. And the gear I carry. When I was in LA, carrying a heavy bag and tossing it into a car on the way to a new destination, was no big deal. In NYC, the gear is with me for the long haul. All dang […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Miggo Agua : Serves and Protects With A New Take On Camera Carrying Bags
Tuesday, May 12th, 2015
FREE CAMERA STRAP OFFER! Our friends at Think Tank Photo just announced a special “Gear Up For Summer!” special offer. Buy one of their highly acclaimed backpacks and they’ll include a Blue Camera Strap V2.0 and Camera Support Straps V2.0 (a $44.50 value) for free! Take a load off your neck, shoulders, and back by […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on ThinkTank Photo Offers You A Little Freebie
Tuesday, May 12th, 2015
Yes, there a few major systems out there that give you access to pay systems without using a physical credit card. I don’t now about you, but for the most part, it’s a lot faster to use the physical card. And most transit systems require you to swipe the magnetic strip to enter. As much […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on STM Review: Wallet & Phone Case
Saturday, May 9th, 2015
Domke Camera bags have quite a legacy in the world of photojournalism. Well built, designed for the working pro, with easy access to gear, while protecting the goods. They’ve now have been updated and re-introduced to a new audience.The line is called Next Generation Problem>>>>>>Solution While going to events to shoot video coverage or an […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Domke Bags: Have Your Video Gear Ready To Roll
Saturday, May 2nd, 2015
When Lexar introduced the Workflow Tower last year, I took it to SXSW for a real world review. Basically you have a 4 slot unit, where you can interchange the card reading modules, depending on your media, and have them all download concurrently to a folder, or consecutively to Lightroom. This was a dream come […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Real World Review – Lexar HD2 : Multi Reader Just Got Better
Saturday, May 2nd, 2015
I love Adobe because they are a company dedicated to the digital image across the board. The gold standard, the one to go to. And of course after the Apple Final Cut Pro X miss-step, Premiere is becoming a go-to pro edit system. Lightroom 5 has been working great. Last year when they moved any […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Lightroom 6 Beefs Up the Options : Time to Subscribe?
Sunday, April 19th, 2015
Technical Image Press Association Names Think Tank Photo’s 10th Anniversary Airport International™ LE Classic Rolling Camera Case 2015 “Best Photo Bag” Seems like only yesterday that I was walking the lanes of PhotoPlus Expo in NYC and saw a sea of black bags, with a company name I had never heard of. ThinkTank Photo. Aside […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on 10 years of ThinkTankPhoto : Best Camera Bags in the Biz
Sunday, April 5th, 2015
Nikon has announced the next generation in their mirrorless One series. The J5 is on its way. They know their customers and have continued to deliver a camera that does just what they want. This series has proven to be a star performer in the Asian market but has been a little slower going in […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon J5 – Update On the Compact Coming Soon
Saturday, April 4th, 2015
VR-(virtual reality): This refers to content created in a 360º environment and viewed using special goggles. As image makers, we should all be aware of the ways images can be made. This technology is young for acceptance into the culture, so consider this an early adopter look. At SXSW interactive this year, I figured it […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on VR Is In The Beginning of the Beginning
Wednesday, April 1st, 2015
Ludacris @ Stubbs As we enter the season of music festivals, the shooter on the scene needs to be prepared. Before we post about the holy trinity of lenses you need, the reason to use a DSLR or Mirrorless, or the best software to get your images out fast, let’s look at some of the […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on SXSW – This Is The Little Gear That Worked
Sunday, March 1st, 2015
After last months announcement about the D810A intended for the Astrophotogrpahy market, the latest news is looking at a more general market. With an update to the D7100, a super zoom point and shoot, and wireless mics, Nikon is listening closely to their audience. First up is an update to the best selling D7100, surprisingly: […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon updates: D7200, Cutting the Wires, And Going Long
Saturday, February 14th, 2015
Since the incorporation of the iPad and others into your workflow, the biggest issue has been the best mounting system to use. It could be a tethered screen, or camranger, or shooting notes or lighting sketches you need to have in front of you Whether you need to access the tablet on a light stand, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Octa : Tablet Mounting System – Packs Small, Plays Big
Monday, February 9th, 2015
In a very interesting release, Nikon has introduced the D810A, a now classic series, with added features for Astrophotography. Someone did the research and determined that the market was big enough to create a version of the wildly popular D810 series specifically for the folk who make images of the Space above. Honestly, if this […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon D810A : Ground Control To Major Tom!
Monday, February 9th, 2015
Since moving to NYC, camera size has become top of mind because many times the gear goes in a bag on my shoulder or my back. When the Black Magic Pocket Cinema camera became available for 50% less than normal, I couldn’t be happier. Sweet, small and high quality, the BMPC can go anywhere. The […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fotodiox Vizalex ND Throttle : Great Tool for the Black Magic Pocket Cinema Cameras
Saturday, February 7th, 2015
It’s baaaack! Fashion Week is coming to NYC again this week, and it seemed like a right time to hear from Katy Winn, photographer who has covered the event around the world. What we love about Katy is her no BS, straightforward thoughts on the subject. And of course, if you have the time, check […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Katy Winn on Fashion Week Photography
Thursday, February 5th, 2015
The rumor mills have been creating the pre-buzz on this new camera for awhile. 50.6 dang MEGAPIXELS! The MP wars are over? I think not. Get ready to upgrade your media cards as well, as your wallets:Prices of $3,699.00 and $3,899.00 for the body only, respectively. Reasonable actually, for the product. You do have some […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Canon introduces EOS 5DSi & 5DS Ri: Over 50 mp in your hand!
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2015
It’s a vicious cycle. We buy the latest smartphones with better cameras, and as photographers, we want to add some lenses for versatility. But the lenses need to change with the new smartphone design cycles, so they fit over the new phone lenses. We all know that. And the manufacturers of all of these lenses, […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Olloclip Lenses for iPhone 6 : And we’re back……
Tuesday, January 27th, 2015
Every time you upgrade your camera to the latest model, new features are usually found in the menu: Facial Recognition, Panoramic, simple HDR, basic Time Lapse, etc.. But there things that may never be added. Features that are dependent on things like motion and sound sensors. Things that you may have in your smartphone. Like […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Triggertrap Mobile : Adding Controls Your Camera Never Had
Sunday, January 25th, 2015
“Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don’t” Peter Paul/1980 Analog or Digital? Seems like an easy question to answer. If you’ve ever used film, you know the difference in the workflow. And the image. It’s a different skill set that will probably be soon relegated to those few willing to put in the […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on What’s In The Bag? Daniel Milnor Shows How Digital and Analog Live In One Place
Sunday, January 18th, 2015
It’s been a few years since I’ve met with with Katy Winn, and she shared “What’s in Her Bag”. It’s always a good lesson to see what a working photographer uses to get the job done. Not about endorsements, freebies, or the latest gear that gets written up. It’s about what works. And works. and […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | 1 Comment »
Sunday, January 18th, 2015
It’s about time. How can you extend the life of your digital camera, and not get stuck in the “computer with lens” upgrade costs? Many companies offer firmware upgrades that will fix problems, and give very minor new features. (Do many of you even do the upgrade?) Fuji released a 27 point firmware upgrade to […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Camera Firmware updates – The Upgrade Variety
Sunday, January 11th, 2015
You may to go to a shoot where you won’t have your camera bag with you at all times. Trade shows, Weddings, Events. Or in my recent experience flying back from CES, having Jet Blue insist on checking your camera bag, although it was promised to be hand checked and meeting me at the gate […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Dude! Where’s My Gear ?? Real World Reviews of Tracker Tags
Tuesday, January 6th, 2015
Today, Nikon Inc. announced its latest DX-format DSLR, the Nikon D5500, that offers a built-in Wi-Fi connectivity a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter (OLPF), like the D800E, and a new 3.2-inch Vari-angle touch operation LCD display. The removal of the sensor’s OLPF allows for an impressive level of detail and sharpness from […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Nikon Starts the New Year Off with Something for Everyone
Monday, January 5th, 2015
With over 2 million sq. feet of exhibition, conference and keynote space, CES 2015 is an overwhelming array of technological displays and the promise of products that will make your life better. It has now spread out to 3 main locations in Las Vegas, with the Convention center holding most of the displays, including 10 […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on CES 2015: The Prequel
Saturday, January 3rd, 2015
Since I was a young man, there has been a gear bag in my life. My shoulders were the main load bearers. When backpacks came onto the scene, the weight would be distributed across the back, instead of just giving you a one shoulder slant. There have been many bags come onto the scene, and […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on You’ve Got The New Gear, Here’s What You Carry It In : Think Tank Photo
Tuesday, December 30th, 2014
And why? Because in the short time that I’ve had it I’ve grabbed it over 10 times as a simple solution to a problem. How do you stabilize a phone without adding a frame with a 1/4-20? How do you grab your phone, pop open some tripod legs and set a phone up to shoot […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Popscope: This one is in the bag already
Sunday, December 28th, 2014
Let’s be honest: there was a promise of a digital photo frame that would have a seamless experience for all that wanted it. Between Instagram and Facebook, most of your digital images are already available to everyone. But you also have images that maybe more personal or special, that you want to share with much […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Nixplay Digital Frame : Lets You Post to the Folks When You’re Back Home
Saturday, December 13th, 2014
You know when someone is into a particular hobby, profession, or basic interest, you struggle to find a gift for them figuring that they already have it, or are about to buy it for themselves? Here’s a few items to fill out your list for the photog on your list. It may just show that […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Photoinduced Holiday Gift Guide 5 : Bits and Bobs
Sunday, November 30th, 2014
Hope you had some Black Friday luck in shopping, and are ready for Cyber Monday!Some sweet deal out there, but the current models of things are a bit elusive in those sales. Oh well. Now for the current Gift Guide: We’ve moved past the question about point and shoot cameras V smartphones. Game over. So […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Photoinduced Holiday Gift Guide Part 4 : It’s All In Your Hands – Phone Photography
Thursday, November 27th, 2014
Before we continue on our gift guide, there are some items you are already looking into, and there ares some deals you may want to take advantage of tomorrow. Of course there will be Cyber Monday! Some of the places with special Black Friday links all listed: THIS JUST IN!! SAVE $2300 at BH on […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Black Friday Photo Gear Links 2014
Saturday, November 22nd, 2014
The list of items you can wrap now moves into a more classical vein. A book! You may learn from them, be inspired, be moved, motivated, or just enjoy the images that you share without being logged on. I’m a voracious collector of books, and have just one pet peeve: when images are split between […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | 2 Comments »
Tuesday, November 18th, 2014
Let’s continue on with some more gifting ideas, taken from our real world usage of this gear. We can call them accessories, but these are some needed items for the photographer. Hmmmm….. difference between need and want? Not for me to say. Let’s start with gifting the portrait shooters using speedlights and recco of a […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | 1 Comment »
Sunday, November 16th, 2014
Ahhh yes, it’s that time of year again! Gifting for others, self gifting, deals aplenty, and the economy moves forward. But how to discern the right goodie to get? We’ve been looking at a ton of good through the year and will let you know what we feel is worth your time, and wrapping expertise. […]
Posted in Events, Gear Monkey, Product Reviews | 1 Comment »
Sunday, November 16th, 2014
Have you tried them all? The explosion of LED lighting solutions in the past years have yielded some great choices for the videographer or still photog needing continuous light. The Studio options are getting cheaper, but are they getting better? After year of using the square or rectangular, which are still viable, I’ve found that […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | Comments Off on Fotodiox Flapjacks : Tasty Name for a Sweet LED Lighting Solution
Sunday, November 9th, 2014
There are times when the gear you need, is cloaked in another format, used for something completely different. After purchasing the Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera recently, the small size is amazing for the media quality you can generate. There are some drawbacks: you need an external sound recorder, and the small size means you […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News, Product Reviews | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, September 24th, 2014
Not a person, but a sweet new bag in a workable size. Sure they make our favorite camera bags. From the City walker, which is my daily bag, to the Airport International for every travel photo assignment, they just know how to make the best. Why? How about because pro shooters own the company and […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on ThinkTank Photo has a new Production Manager to carry your gear
Wednesday, September 24th, 2014
Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to introduce the EOS 7D Mark II Digital SLR camera, incorporating professional features and quality in an affordable DSLR. Building upon the proven success of the EOS 7D camera, this new EOS model features a range of “EOS firsts” such as Dual DIGIC 6 […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Canon announces 7D Mark II
Wednesday, September 24th, 2014
Big day in Photokina today. Samsung, on it’s second big launch in a short stretch, announces the new NX1 Smart Camera. Shooting 28 MP, at a blazing 15FPS, They are looking to leverage the legacy of Samsung products communicating not only with each other, but now all NFC phones (like the new iPhone 6). ISO […]
Posted in Gear Monkey, Photo News | Comments Off on Samsung Goes Big at Photokina: NX1 Camera with 4K video, & a 50-150mm, 2.8 Lens
Wednesday, September 24th, 2014
My Nikon D700 has been a good friend for years. Then along came the D800: incredible video specs, 36mp, crazy great body construction. Of course, the d800 beget the D810 bringing it all to a new level. But being greedy, there were things I really wanted and had missed. The just announced Nikon D750 took […]