BEST DSLR ADVANCED CAMERA

Canon EOS 90D

The Canon EOS 90D is a fast, versatile and impressive camera that has a strong appeal to the DSLR user who wants to have the latest in-camera technology. With a high-resolution APS-C 32.5MP sensor, Dual Pixel AF, 10 fps burst shooting, and 4K/30p video capture, it’s the perfect companion for the travel, family, sport or landscape enthusiast. The camera also has excellent in-camera Raw processing, very good battery life, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

BEST DSLR EXPERT CAMERA

Nikon D780

Nikon has created an instant classic with the D780. The camera shares the legendary D750’s DNA plus incorporates many of the latest technologies found in Nikon’s Z mirrorless camera series. In terms of speed, image processing, video capability, and autofocus performance, the results check every box on the photographer’s wish list, including Dual USH-II card slots and two readout modes, one dedicated to an expanded dynamic range and the other to higher gain for improved low-light performance.

BEST DSLR PROFESSIONAL CAMERA

Canon EOS-1DX Mark III

The flagship EOS-1DX Mark III is the highest performing DSLR ever created by Canon. It brings new breakthroughs in focusing along with extensive and professional-level video capability. The sensor and imaging systems are new, allowing for numerous benefits including fast shutter speed, high burst rates, and quality recording in low-light. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS are on board, plus there’s an optional wireless transmitter for even faster transmission speeds.

BEST APS-C CAMERA ADVANCED

Nikon Z 50

The Nikon Z 50 mirrorless, Z-mount camera is ideal for family, travel, and creative photography/videography. Ease of use and compact size are coupled with extensive creative controls that include easy switchover between still and video, easy connectivity, and numerous Creative Picture Control effects. Its large tilting LCD offers a bright view even in challenging light, with sensible and accessible dials and menu structures, an impressive 11 fps rate (continuous AF) and wide ISO range.

BEST APS-C CAMERA EXPERT

Sony a6600

The Sony a6600 is ideal for photographers who desire a compact “walk-around” with exciting versatility and creative features for both still and video work. New and impressive technology from Sony includes Real-Time Tracking AF, which seamlessly transitions from subject tracking to face detection and even to eye detection. The camera can shoot at up to 11 frames per second and comes with a large “Z-type” battery that gives the best battery life in this class. Also perfect for content creators with 4K recording and IBIS system stabilization.

BEST APS-C CAMERA PROFESSIONAL

FUJIFILM X-Pro3

FUJIFILM pioneered the “hybrid” viewfinder approach (optical/electronic), which is continued in the X-Pro3. Its rear LCD can be flipped downwards for waist-level TLR-type viewing or to display camera settings and/or the Film Simulation mode in use. The camera offers a wide variety of creative settings for exposure, focusing, and image quality and effects. Its 26MP APS-C sensor has a standard ISO range of 160-12,800 (expandable) and can record 4K video up to 30p.

BEST FULL FRAME CAMERA EXPERT

SIGMA fp

The SIGMA fp is the world’s smallest and lightest “pocketable” mirrorless full-frame cameras, one that offers ease-of-use and the ability to easily switch between still and video shooting modes. Its flexibility extends to easy adaptability to numerous accessories for both still and video use and on-board customization controls that allow for nuanced personalization of every subject and scene. Cinema camera user interfaces allow the user to move recordings straight to video production settings.

BEST FULL FRAME PROFESSIONAL CAMERA

Sony a7R IV

The Sony a7R IV has a 61.2MP CMOS full-frame sensor that rivals medium format camera output in a more compact form factor, plus the camera’s 4 or 16 shot high-resolution pixel-shift modes can yield an amazing 240MP file size. Super-high res does not come at the cost of still of video image capabilities that include 10 fps burst rates and 4K video at full sensor width, plus incorporates Sony’s Real-Time AF Tracking system and dual slots for high-speed UHS-II cards.

BEST FULL FRAME PHOTO/VIDEO CAMERA

Panasonic LUMIX DC-S1H

The LUMIX S1H stands out as a clear choice for those who want a camera with pro-level video capabilities with strong appeal to emerging cinematographers and production teams. Video capture options include 6K/24p, 5.9K/30p, and 10-bit 4K/60p plus an impressive 14+ stops of dynamic range in V-Log and no recording time limit in any of its video modes. In-body stabilization, an anamorphic shooting mode, dual SD card slots, and high-quality 24MP still recording add to the camera’s impressive features.

BEST MEDIUM FORMAT CAMERA

FUJIFILM GFX100

The 102MP GFX100 may well become the camera of choice for location and wedding pros who want to work “off-tripod” to capture dazzling images for wall and display prints for their clientele. The versatility of the camera is expanded via a “twin grip” design, in-body 5-axis image stabilization, and continuous shooting at up to 5 fps. The high degree of image customization is easily controlled through a well-thought-out menu setup, plus incorporation of twin batteries for more shooting endurance.

BEST DSLR PRIME LENS

Tamron SP 35mm F/1.4 Di USD

As fast lenses become increasingly popular, Tamron has responded with products that overcome classic design challenges such as chromatic aberration and flare. This includes a “dense” arrangement of elements and groups, use of glass-molded aspherical lens elements, and a newly developed BBAR-G2 coating that renders fine subject detail and stunning contrast even under backlit conditions. In addition, a new Dynamic Rolling-cam mechanism operates the heavy focusing unit of the large f/1.4 aperture with high-speed accuracy.

BEST DSLR MACRO LENS

Venus Optics Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO

The Laowa 100mm macro is a specialty lens that offers a fun and creative addition to any photographer’s kit. This ultra-macro lens offers greater-than-life size 2:1 magnification that, when paired with a 9.7-inch minimum focusing distance, makes for great close-focusing options. It also serves as an outstanding portrait lens with the ability to focus to infinity. The lens is designed with the APO characteristic that longitudinal and lateral chromatic aberration is suppressed better than most other macro lenses. The lens comes with 5 different mounts for use on both DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

BEST DSLR WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENS

Tokina atx-i 11-16mm F2.8 CF

The atx-i 11-16mm F2.8 CF wide-angle zoom opens up a whole new world of imaging possibilities. Designed for use with APS-C DSLRs, with an effective focal length range of approximately 16-24mm, the atx-i 11-16mm F2.8 CF offers a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the range, an f/22 minimum aperture, and close focusing capability of 0.3 meters (about 1 ft), thus hitting all the marks for photographers who want to take advantage of all the exciting visual potential the lens affords.

BEST DSLR PROFESSIONAL LENS

AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

The AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm lens is an ideal single-lens solution for sports, wildlife, and select portrait photography. Built with an eye on outdoor work, whether it’s in a sports stadium or in the wilds, the lens features rugged weather-sealed construction and 4-stop VR, including a dedicated “Sports VR” mode for rapidly moving subjects. Equally impressive is the close-focusing distance of 6.5 feet (two meters) and customization controls that provide many useful tools for capturing the action.

BEST MFT LENS

Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 10-25mm / F1.7 ASPH

The Panasonic 10-25mm lens offers great image quality and focusing precision for both still and video recording. It features a 20-50mm focal length 35-mm-equivalent with a constant maximum opening of F1.7 – offering very shallow depth of field and expanded low-light recording capabilities – as well as a clickless aperture ring for smooth and silent operation. The closest focusing distance of 28 mm from the sensor plane opens the door to even more creative work. The quiet and smooth operation of the inner focus system is made possible by the use of a stepping motor drive while a focus clutch makes switching from AF to manual focusing quick and easy.

BEST MIRRORLESS PRIME STANDARD LENS

NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct

Superior low light photography is one hallmark of the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct lens. This fascinating lens is designed to eliminate flare when shooting point light sources, even at maximum aperture, and delivers incredible results in night scenes, landscape, and nature work at dawn or dusk, astrophotography, and even backlit portraits with specular highlights behind the subject. Remarkably, this manual focus lens shows its true brilliance when shot wide open, with clarity and a hyper-real rendition throughout the frame.

BEST MIRRORLESS PRIME WIDE-ANGLE LENS

Samyang AF 14mm F2.8 RF

The Samyang super-wide 14mm lens is designed to deliver a unique point of view and perspective for many creative effects. It has a near 114mm angle of view and close-focusing capability of 0.2m (8 inches) plus a minimum aperture of f/22 and a maximum of f/2.8, so both very deep and shallow depth of field effects can be captured. Compact in size (9.5cm—3.75 inches long), the lens also features weather-sealed construction and a rear filter holder that is useful for creative and light-control effects. The world’s first AF 14mm F2.8 for RF mount is designed for users to enjoy a broader perspective with mirrorless cameras.

BEST MIRRORLESS WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENS

SIGMA 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art

The SIGMA 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art lens attains edge-to-edge sharpness, no easy task when it comes to the complex optical formulas that a superior wide zoom requires. The result is impressive resolution that suppresses chromatic aberrations and minimizes flare, plus there is a newly developed Nano Porous Coating that minimizes the effects of strong incident light. A water and oil repellent coating on the front element ensures that the lens can be used in even the most challenging environments.

BEST MIRRORLESS STANDARD ZOOM LENS

SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art

SIGMA set about to design a standard zoom lens that takes full advantage of mirrorless camera capabilities and has succeeded admirably with this large-aperture zoom. Lens size and weight have been reduced plus uniform and high-resolution capture is delivered from the center to the edges throughout the entire zoom range. The lens is also compatible with Eye-Detection AF, a feature often available in mirrorless models that can deliver high-precision focusing for portrait photography.

BEST MIRRORLESS TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS

Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM

The RF 70-200mm brings a classic tele-zoom focal length into the Canon RF family line-up. Long regarded as the optimum tool for a wide range of photography and environments, the lens highlights the advantages of marrying new lens design with mirrorless camera bodies. It is both lighter and shorter than its EF counterpart with enhanced operational features, balance and portability. It incorporates 5-stop IS and two Nano USM motors for fast and quiet AF operation.

BEST PROFESSIONAL PORTRAIT LENS

Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM (DS)

Portrait, fashion, wedding and event photographers now have an exciting technology available for enhancing their work in a classic portrait focal length lens. Available in two versions, a standard and DS version incorporating Canon’s new vapor-deposited coating applied on two lens elements, dubbed Defocus Smoothing, has the effect of smoothing the edges of out of focus areas. This results in images made at wider apertures that display smooth bokeh free from bothersome artefacts that are uniquely beautiful.

BEST EXPERT COMPACT CAMERA

Sony RX100 VII

The RX100 VII has definite appeal to those seeking a pocketable, integral-lens camera that incorporates a full range of imaging options that rival professional cameras. It supports optical image stabilization and an amazing 20fps continuous shooting burst rate. Numerous scene and drive modes are offered, plus 4K video, with motion video up to 1000 fps, makes it an excellent video companion as well. The Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and DRAM memory create a super-speed data highway.

BEST VLOGGING CAMERA

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a perfect step-up option for smartphone users who enjoy vlogging. It offers both Live Streaming services to YouTube and the capability to handle both standard and vertical format video, all made easy with a flip-up touch screen. True 4K cinematic quality can now be made in both live-action and studio environments with the 1.0-Type sensor, wide-aperture lens, and external microphone input. Still image quality is equally impressive, with a 20.1MP resolution, 20 fps burst rate and a 4.2X zoom lens with optical image stabilization. The Tripod Grip HG-100TBR is the ideal vlogging companion to the PowerShot G7 X Mark III, making it even more convenient to create great-looking content.

BEST PREMIUM COMPACT CAMERA

FUJIFILM X100V

The X100V can be described as a “second camera for pros” and a “walk-around camera” for enthusiasts. Compact size and with a host of features, the camera uses the same sensor and processor of the company’s X-Pro3, with a redesigned “pancake” fixed 23mm (35mm equivalent) f/2 lens that is compatible with conversion lenses. It continues in the Fujifilm “hybrid” optical/electronic viewing scheme, plus offers Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes. 4K video features are also legion, plus battery life can stretch to 420 exposures when using the optical finder.

BEST INKJET PHOTO PAPER

Hahnemühle Natural Line

The Hahnemühle Natural Line appeals in both their sustainable manufacture and their unique surface characteristics. The cellulose in these papers is supplied by raw materials that require minimal maintenance and do not need any pesticides. Each 290 GSM paper has a unique look and feel. Bamboo is a warm tone paper with a lightly textured surface; Hemp is a bright white matt paper with a slight textural surface; and Agave has a more textural surface with a bright white base.

BEST PORTABLE PHOTO PRINTER

FUJIFILM instax mini Link

The instax mini Link makes easy work of smartphone instax printmaking via a Bluetooth connection via the mini Link app. Features include quick transfer, continuous printing and delivery of about 100 prints per charge. Still and video frames can be printed, plus the app can be connected to up to five smartphones to create one instax print collage. A bonus is that connectivity can be achieved with Fujifilm X cameras using the company’s Camera Remote app.

BEST IMAGING SOFTWARE

DxO PhotoLab 3

DxO PhotoLab 3 is an amazing RAW processing software. Its wide range of adjustments adds to the already large arsenal of creative tools available in previous versions. Among the new options is an innovative HSL colour control tool for fine-tuning colour values; an improved Repair Tool for retouching and replacing image parts with powerful feathering and opacity controls; and an optimized asset management tool that supports keyword management. All the tools are easily accessible from a well-designed user interface.

BEST IMAGING STORAGE SOLUTION

SanDisk Extreme Pro CFexpress 2.0 Type B memory cards

SanDisk’s Extreme Pro CFexpress card answers the photographer’s need for the increased data workflow requirements for both high-speed still and video recording and readout of today’s modern cameras. Available in capacities ranging from 64 to 512 GB, it can deliver up to 1700MB/s read speed and write speeds up to 1400 MB/s. It also acts as a bridge between past cameras, with backward compatibility with select XQD cameras that adopt firmware that enables CFexpress.

BEST PORTABLE FLASH

Nissin MG80 Pro flash

The MG80 Pro is a fully featured flash that will prove to be a valuable addition to the kit bag of wedding, journalistic, and location photographers. The MG80 Pro scores highly in all respects, including a 1.2 second recycle time and approximately 360 flashes when used with 4 lithium, 14500 type, batteries with 1000mAh or 280 flashes when used with 2450mAh rechargeables. The unit can communicate with other units as radio commander or slave, and supports TTL, manual control and HSS. It is compatible with almost every hot-shoe camera on the market today. The MG80 Pro for Sony cameras has a metal hot-shoe for durability.

BEST PROFESSIONAL LED LIGHT

ARRI Orbiter

The ARRI Orbiter sets a new bar in high-end, professional LED light sources. It’s build and design meets the demands of heavy and daily uses, plus allows complete flexibility of colour output to match every subject and scene. The system offers a wide variety of light shaping control accessories, variable output, and smart control panels for ease of adjustments. A newly developed LiOS (software for light operating system) delivers tools for setup control and recall.

BEST TRAVEL TRIPOD

Manfrotto BeFree GT XPRO

Working with the 3.9 lb.GT XPRO, a flexible, rock-steady, and lightweight tripod, makes creative field work a joy. It’s designed to allow the photographer to quickly and easily adapt to any subject and scene, whether it’s a low angle macro or distant landscape. Legs can be splayed to a minimum height of 3.5 inches for low-angle or macro work. The centre column can be pulled out and slid back in on its side to shoot right over the subject.

BEST TRIPOD HEAD

Gitzo 3-Way head

The Gitzo 3-Way head provides ultimate flexibility in camera movements along with the ability to handle up to 13kg of gear. Lightweight at 1kg, thanks to its magnesium build, it employs innovative solutions for precise control on three independent axes, each with its own fluid cartridge to provide accurate movements with little effort. A quick release holder makes it easy to switch from vertical to horizontal composition, or for shooting from overhead to below.

BEST PROFESSIONAL PHOTO MONITOR

BenQ PhotoVue SW321C

The new BenQ PhotoVue SW321C features a generous 4K resolution, 32-inch screen that strongly appeals to imaging professionals for both still and video processing. Colour accuracy is assured with 99% Adobe RGB colour space coverage, 100% sRGB, and 95% DCI P3 gamut. What’s more, the specific BenQ Uniformity technologies provide even brightness and colour across the entire screen and their unique Paper Color Sync software with ART panel accurately simulates photo print colours on screen. The SW321C also features powered USB-C compatibility enabling users to connect directly from laptops and other devices.

BEST PROFESSIONAL VIDEO MONITOR

LG UltraWide 38WN95C

The LG UltraWide 38WN95C sets the new top standard in the widescreen market for video professionals and gamers alike. The large 38-inch Nano IPS curved screen with 24:10 aspect ratio features an impressive 3840×1600 resolution, with VESA DisplayHDR 600 certified, and highly accurate 98% DCI-P3 color gamut. Users can seamlessly edit several clips and simultaneously run various programs without enlarging or reducing timelines. Connectivity excels with Thunderbolt 3 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, and 2x USB 3.0 ports. Featuring 1ms response time, 144Hz refresh rate, and NVIDIA G-Sync compatible, it also has excellent image quality in games.

BEST PHOTO SMARTPHONE

Huawei P40 Series

Smartphone photographic capability takes another great leap forward with the latest generation of Huawei’s P-Series. All three smartphones – the P40, P40 Pro and the P40 Pro+ – have the Kirin 990 5G chipset, a large 1/1,28-inch sensor, and were developed in conjunction with Leica. Noteworthy features of the models include AI-powered white balance algorithms, including those dedicated to optimize skin-tone and texture, greatly enhanced dynamic range and low light performance, colour temperature sensors, focus capability on all pixels, and an XD Fusion Engine for smooth zoom and optimization of image quality.

BEST MOBILE ACCESSORY

Godox R1

Avid mobile photographers who want to add an extra touch of lighting creativity to their images will appreciate the features of Godox’s R1 LED. The rounded unit attaches to metal surfaces via magnets, and even more surfaces with round Velcro hooks. Its built-in battery delivers an hour of use after charging. The dimmable RGB LED of the R1 features adjustable colour temperature settings for both warm and cool mood tinting, a power output control to control light intensity from off to full brightness, plus additional modes for creative and fun lighting effects.

BEST COLOUR MANAGEMENT SOLUTION

X-Rite i1Display Studio / i1Display Pro Plus

The X-Rite i1Display Studio is an excellent colour calibration tool for photographers looking for a cost-effective, quick and easy professional solution to achieve a brilliantly colour accurate display. The i1Display Studio can calibrate monitors, laptops, projectors and mobile devices, making this a great choice for amateurs with limited technical knowledge and pros alike. The i1Display Pro Plus is ideal for professional filmmakers and photographers looking for better shadow detail and better performance in dark colours. It is ideal for those working in a 3D LUT or HDR workflow or anyone working with high brightness displays and displays that can achieve close to zero black.

BEST PHOTO LAB

WhiteWall Masterprint

Photographers and artists who use high-resolution professional cameras and lenses will find full expression of their vision with WhiteWall Masterprints. Using an exclusive fine art paper and a printing system designed under the guidance of WhiteWall engineers, prints up to 180cm (71 inches) wide can be realized. Seamlessly printed using Epson pigment inks and face-mounted under a single piece of 4mm thick acrylic glass, these impressive prints, available in sizes up to 5.0 x 1.8 meters (197×71 inches), display astonishingly rich colour and detail reproduction.

BEST PHOTO SERVICE

CEWE PHOTOBOOK with leather and linen cover

CEWE is now offering two new album covers that give an elegant look and feel to the completed volume. Their leather bound book is perfect for a photographer’s portfolio or classic family album, with the traditional style of a vintage photo album. The linen cover book has a tactile feel with stable and secure premium linen binding, providing a modern and stylish look. Both styles are available for books up to 114 pages and can be personally designed by choosing between different colours. A unique feature is the custom design of the cover with its embossed highlights.

BEST PHOTO INNOVATION

Sony Real-Time Tracking technology

Sony’s Real-Time Tracking takes AF technology to new level. Once the photographer indicated the subject with half pressure on the shutter release, the system tracks it regardless of where it moves within the frame. Thanks to the Real-time Eye AF (for humans and animals), the camera will automatically pick up the eye of your subject when visible in the frame. The system uses AI and “learned” subject information, including colour, brightness, distance and even facial and eye patterns to maintain focus, allowing seamless and true AF lock-on without the need to change AF modes. It’s a truly remarkable system that changes the game when it comes to the speed and accuracy of AF technology.

More info on TIPA’s website.