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3 weeks ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
The Panasonic Lumix S1IIE aims to provide the ‘essential’ features of the pricier S1II. It’s a very capable camera, but I suspect most buyers at this level would rather pay more for the better model.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
Sony has revealed a new ‘entry-level’ full-frame model in its FX series of cinema cameras. Designed for solo shooters, the new Sony FX2 takes key technologies from the Sony Alpha A7C II and places them inside a video-focused body design. It also incorporates all of Sony’s latest video features and autofocus technologies.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
After months of online rumours, Fujifilm’s latest camera, the Fujifilm X half, has officially arrived. And let’s get one thing straight from the start – if you’re hoping for a more affordable version of the firm’s popular X100VI, then despite the clear cosmetic resemblance, that’s simply not what you get. Instead, the X half is a dramatically different kind of camera that takes its inspiration from the experience of shooting film, and as its name suggests, specifically half-frame 35mm.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
The Benro FS20PRO hybrid head isn’t quite as good as either dedicated ball-and-socket or pan-and-tilt tripod heads. But if you want one head for both photo and video, it does a surprisingly good job. ProsVersatile hybrid ball/pan & tilt designCompact sizeConsSlower to use than a simple ball headNot as smooth as a dedicated video headAside from a few specialist options, most tripod heads fall into one of two camps.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
The Bowman Summit is a high-quality hand-made strap that’s as stylish as it is versatile. Its adjustable length and integrated wrist loop let you carry your camera securely in multiple ways. ProsUniquely versatile designVery nicely madeChoice of lengths and attractive coloursConsDoesn’t fit cameras with slot-type lugsAbout a year ago, I reviewed the Bowman Peak Duo – a clever and unique slim leather shoulder/neck strap with an integrated wrist loop.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
The 3 Legged Thing Alana DocZ kit is a really high quality piece of kit that will do a great job when you need to support large telephoto lenses. The DocZ base adds useful extra stability when needed. ProsReasonably lightweightExtremely sturdyEasy to use twist locksDocZ base adds extra stabilityConsCheaper monopods are availableThe 3 Legged Thing Alana is a 5-section carbon-fibre monopod with quick twist locks for adjusting its height.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
Alongside the Lumix S1II and S1IIE, Panasonic has announced a new large-aperture standard zoom, the Panasonic Lumix S 24-60mm F2.8. It’s designed to be a general-purpose, everyday lens suitable for a broad range of subjects, ranging from architecture and landscapes to portraits. Compared to the firm’s existing high-end Lumix S Pro 24-70mm F2.8, it’s dramatically smaller and lighter, and only about half the price.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
Panasonic has introduced not just one, but two new 24MP models in its professional-oriented S1 range. Both the Panasonic Lumix S1II and S1IIE (E for “essentials”) share their body design with the high-resolution S1RII, with the nameplate being the only visible difference between the three cameras. However, the S1II has a ‘partially stacked sensor’ for high-speed shooting, while the S1IIE uses a conventional sensor at a rather lower price. Both cameras are due to go on sale in June.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
Peak Design is a company that inspires a loyal following among travellers and photographers alike. Its latest design, the Peak Design Roller Pro, is designed to appeal to both. On its own, it’s a rolling suitcase, and when used with the firm’s Camera Cubes, it becomes a camera case. After a hugely successful Kickstarter launch that raised over $13 million, it’s now available to pre-order through conventional retail channels.
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1 month ago | 
amateurphotographer.com | Andy Westlake
The Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS is a great option for those shooting such things as wildlife. However it’s quite large and heavy and has a restricted zoom range. ProsExcellent optical qualityFast, silent, accurate autofocusVery effective stabilisationRobust buildConsFairly large and heavyLimited zoom rangeSmall aperture requires use of high ISOsThe Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS is an ultra-telephoto zoom for the firm’s full-frame E-mount cameras.
