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Gear of the year

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Bags, tripods, lenses, audio accessories for photographers turned videographers, on-camera flash, LEDs and more - all sundry items the photographer needs for their creative arsenal. With technology and what is actually available to us moving so fast, sometimes we need to take a pause and look around us. That's what this article is doing, surveying the latest options available to enthusiast and pro photographers in the UK and beyond. We hope it will provide some food for thought - if not suggestions for potential purchases for your camera's kit bag...

Cullman bags and tripods

Re-introduced to the UK market by distributor Intro2020 for the first time in a while are a new selection of Cullman-branded bags and tripods. Taking the latter first, new to the range and worth investigation is the fourth iteration of Cullmann's 'Nanomax' 460M tripod. This model includes a two-way panhead, quick-release platform and removable centre column - allowing the photographer to use the Nanomax 460M as a monopod instead. Fashioned from aluminium, the tripod comes in black, offers a maximum height of 168cm, a minimum height of 19cm, four section legs and a maximum load of 4kg. A special feature of all new Nanomax models is what's described as a triangular aluminium profile for the tripod legs and centre column, which, according to the manufacturer, makes for reliable anti-twist protection.

Also worth consideration by professionals looking for a 'workhorse' support is the slick and contemporary-looking 'Titan' tripod in gunmetal silver, featuring heavy-duty watertight legs and anodised trapezoidal aluminium body. As one would expect, it's built to support a heavy body and lens set-up - with maximum sustainable load a whopping 21kg. Other features of note include an air-cushioned centre column to supposedly make for jitter-free stills or video work.

Maximum height is 162cm, whereas minimum is 74cm. Not only is this tripod claimed to be precision made in Germany, it also offers a 20-year warranty for peace of mind.

Cullmann also supplies camera bags to accommodate a wide range of bodies and lenses. Suited to medium DSLRs with a standard 18-55mm zoom lens attached is the Ultralight Pro Maxima 120 bag in black. Despite being lightweight, a high level of protection is claimed, thanks to the use of tear-proof RipStop nylon material with a waterproof floor to the bag to keep camera kit dry when the bag is placed on wet ground. There is a net pocket on the side for a smartphone, whilst the inner lid pocket contains several stowage compartments and the shoulder padding is said to be 'skid proof'. Inner dimensions are 200x160x120mm.

A further carry option comes in the shape of the Cullmann Ultralight Sport 300 Day Pack. The camera compartment is opened from the back, protecting equipment from theft. A side opening provides direct access to the camera without having to place the backpack on the floor, whilst an interior partition with a soft inside lining can be removed to convert the backpack to a leisure backpack. A rain/sun cover offers further protection. Inner dimensions are 160x140x290mm.

We then move into a slew of destination-themed bags. The Madrid Sports Maxima 125+ suitable for storing CSC equipment (camera and two lenses), or it can be used for a sporty leisure bag. The padded back of the bag and the wide shoulder padding with anti-slip strip contribut to comfortable carrying. The interior also includes a compartment for a tablet of up to 10 inches in size. Interior dimensions are 230x90x150mm. Moving further south we come to the Cullmann Sydney Pro Maxima 425.

Said to be for 'ambitious photographers and videographers', it's suitable for medium-size DSLRs and a tablet up to 13-inches in size. The base of the bag is made of rubberised, skid-resistant material, which is said to be durable and easily cleaned. Inside the bag is a detachable camera insert and convenient organiser at the front. A notebook compartment is suited to tablet PCs up to 13 inches in size, and once again we get a rain/sun cover. Inner dimensions are 350x230x110mm.

Traditionalists owning medium to large DSLR gear might be more convinced by Cullmann's Amsterdam Maxima 520 Gladstone bag - complete with unique opening, which opens along the entire length of the top of the bag for rapid equipment access. The interior is well padded with numerous compartments plus two lockable front pockets with additional flaps on both sides for access to memory cards. The outer material of the Amsterdam bag is hardwearing and water repellent. The interior measures 360x200x170mm.

Our final bag to spotlight is the Lima Backpack 600+ aimed at 'outdoor loving' photographers. This is said to be able to cope with a large amount of camera equipment plus a laptop up to 15.6 inches, whilst a ventilation system ensures the avoidance of a sweaty back. Convenient Velcro fasteners allow you to open the camera compartment securely and just wide enough to remove the camera quickly. Inner dimensions are 290x150x390mm.

Tamrac bags

Readers may also be aware that Tamrac has a new selection of camera and lens bags, and pouches in the Hoodoo backpacks and Goblin pouches respectively. On top of this there are new third party lenses available from Tamron in its new 85mm and 90mm Tamron lenses.

The Tamrac Hoodoo range is fashioned from water-resistant waxed canvas and polyurethane coated lightweight rip-stop nylon, making it ideal for those outdoor photographers who want to carry their camera gear with them wherever they go. As well as three different colours, the bags also come in two different sizes.

The Hoodoo 18 is aimed at those wanting to transport a mirror-less system camera or smaller DSLR, along with a lens or two. In fact you tuck said camera and lens into a Tamrac Goblin pouch - more on which in a minute - and pop them into the Hoodoo 18's upper padded compartment. There is also room to add personal gear in the main compartment and up to a 13-inch laptop in the laptop sleeve.

Bigger than the 18 variety, the Hoodoo 20's pitch is that it is actually three packs in one: a protective camera backpack, standalone camera shoulder bag and a day pack. In camera backpack mode the Hoodoo 20 provides easy access through the front of the pack, via which the photographer can grab their camera.

The fully protective camera module can accommodate a compact DSLR or mirror-less camera system with extra lenses. The top part of the bag carries personal items as well as most 15-inch laptops in its own protective sleeve.

Or, as a further option, take out the camera module and use as a shoulder bag with included shoulder strap. The dividers are fully customisable in order to adapt to your customers' camera gear. The Hoodoo 18 and 20 cost £89.99 and £130 respectively.

Want something smaller? The Goblins - choose from a Lens Pouch, a Body Pouch, an Accessory Pouch and a Memory Card Wallet - offer a layer of padded protection despite their minimalist appearance and compact dimensions. Pricing ranges from £13 to £25.

The Lens Pouches are available in six sizes and three colours - Kiwi green, Pumpkin orange and Ocean blue - to perfectly match the Hoodoo bags outlined above. Sizes can accommodate the smallest lens to a 24-70mm. A simple drawstring enclosure makes for easy access to your lens, whilst a quilted ultrasonically fused interior provides basic padded security. We also get a rip-stop nylon exterior.

The Body Pouches again come in the same three colours and here we get a choice of three different sizes that weigh 22g, 30g or 32g, and accommodate compact point-and-shoot cameras through mirror-less system models and on to compact DSLRs.

Available in two sizes (at weights of 36g or 42g) and the same three colours is the Goblin Accessory Pouch. Designed to give photographers easy-to-access protection, these pouches are made to fit a range of camera accessories - from action cameras and batteries to cords and keys.

High-grade YKK zippers allow quick access to photo gear while a quilted, ultrasonically fused interior provides basic padded security.

Last, but by no means least, the Goblin Memory Card Wallet allows photographers to keep their media cards close at hand - and avoid scrambling around for loose cards in a larger bag. Again we get a choice of Kiwi, Pumpkin or Ocean colours, along with Ripstop nylon exterior, micro mesh window and ultrasonically fused quilted padding. The Memory Card Wallet comes in three different configurations to accommodate either six SD cards or four CompactFlash cards.

Canon

The photo giant has a handful of new photographic accessories that should appeal to membership of The Societies.

These include its Speedlite 600EX II-RT flashgun and Directional Stereo Microphone DM-E1 - designed for photographers and videographers respectively. With a Guide Number of 60m at ISO100, the Speedlite is said to be ideal for fast frame photography, such as sports events, weddings and 'red carpet events', in firing up to 50% more flashes continuously compared to its predecessor. Suggested pricing is £539.99.

The DM-E1 meanwhile is described as its first external EOS system microphone for those wanting to capture more professional sound when shooting video on their EOS.

It features three directional sound pick-up modes: mono aural mode for capturing a sound source directly in front of the microphone, plus 90 and 120 degree modes for stereo sound when recording sources spread out over wide areas, such as in a concert hall. The microphone is priced at £274.99.

The manufacturer has also introduced what's claimed as the world's first AF lens with built-in macro light in the EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM for its EOS M compact system cameras. Boasting a focal length equivalent to 45mm in 35mm terms, the lens is able to focus down to 13mm and is claimed to be the world's lightest macro optic for mirror-less models. Canon also notes that it has the world's first built-in Macro Lite. Weight is a mere 130g at a cost of £294.99.

www.canon.co.uk

Manfrotto

One might principally think of tripods when it comes to the Italian manufacturer, but it also offers useful range of bags and backpacks. Recommended from amongst its tripods is the Carbon Fibre 190 Go!

Which is available as a standalone product or as part of a kit, plus new bags in the Advanced Rear Access backpack and RedBee-210.

The backpack, as it sounds, provides rear access for your DSLR or CSC with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached and is described as one product with three uses, as, backpack aside, it also can be used as a laptop carrier and a daypack. A supplied rain cover helps protect against bad weather. There is a dedicated compartment for a tablet too, and it features interchangeable dividers to allow for a custom fit for the gear inside your bag. Being a Manfrotto product, a neat feature is that it comes with a special internal compartment for a tripod (dependent on tripod size naturally). Suggested retail price is £119.95.

The swish looking RedBee-210 pack from Manfrotto meanwhile is designed again for a DSLR, and offers rear access plus top and side opening for two cameras. There's an external tripod connection and a rain cover comes included, whilst internal dividers are flexible enough that the bag can to an extent be customised to protect your equipment. Worth noting is the fact that this bag fits the standard size as carry-on luggage for airlines. The RedBee-210 costs a suggested £119.95.

Aimed at advanced hobbyists as well as pros, Manfrotto's Italian-made 'Go!' tripod meanwhile is a four-section setup with twist locks and comes in serious looking black. It is described as a more compact and easy-to-transport version of the regular 190 tripod, with carbon fibre construction. Its 90-degree column mechanism is hidden inside the tripod's top casting and, upon being needed, can be raised with a single finger, allowing the centre column to swing into the horizontal position. The '190 Go!' comes priced at £309.95. Alternatively the 'kit' version adds a three-way head for precise framing on all three axes at £359.99.

www.manfrotto.co.uk

Nikon

Where to start when it comes to kit recommendations for this photo stalwart? Well the obvious place would be the SB-5000 speedlight, along with its two new 18-55mm standard lenses in VR (Vibration Reduction) and non-VR iterations. On top of this in terms of optics there is also the 24-70mm, released last year by the photo giant.

Seemingly perfect for marrying with its D500 or D5, the SB-5000 radio controlled Speedlight, which retails at £499.99, comes with a guide number of 34.5 (ISO100) plus compact build. The idea is that it is an all-round flash for pros. It features a cooling system - a world first for clip-on type compact flash units - to eliminate unnecessary cut-offs and increase the number of consecutive firings, while the radio control tackles common problems such as line-of-sight obstruction and bright sunlight.

Those with APS-C sensor DSLRs meanwhile may want to investigate a pair of recently released Nikon standard zooms - one with Vibration Reduction, one without.

The AF-P Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR is a fairly reasonable £199.99, whilst the 'plain' AF-P Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G has a guide of £149.99. Pitched as great for 'everyday photography', the zooms are the first Nikkor lenses to deploy Nikon's new Stepping Motor, claimed to focus fast and quietly - and thus be eminently suitable for recording video. Additionally, these are the first Nikon lenses to allow D5500/D5300/D3300 users to switch between Auto Focus and Manual Focus, or turn VR on and off, using the camera menu.

Both lenses are designed to offer enthusiast and entry-level photographers a more natural way to shoot, thanks to the lightweight build and improved portability.

Pro photographers might want to take a look at the AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR, however. Said to be faster, stronger and steadier than before upon its release late last year, its VR system minimises camera shake and allows photography at shutter speeds up to four stops slower. AF is also up to 1.5 times faster thanks to Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM). An electromagnetic diaphragm promises consistent, more precise exposures during high-speed bursts, reducing risk of accidental damage associated with mechanical lever mechanisms.

In non-hardware related news, Nikon recently unveiled its new 'always on' Bluetooth-powered 'SnapBridge' connectivity/sharing solution which it says puts the camera in the centre of the 'ecosystem' of personal devices.

The explanation runs as follows: SnapBridge via Bluetooth low energy enables the continuous and immediate transfer of images from the camera to a smart device as they are captured in real time, transforming photography into a social, connected experience. This is achieved automatically without the need to activate image transfer from the camera, while also keeping power consumption low for both devices. Users can also continue to enjoy mobile internet connectivity during image transfer, allowing them to check their e-mail or access social media while syncing their photographs.

It says SnapBridge will be a feature in 'almost' every Nikon camera from 2016 onwards.

www.nikon.co.uk

Kaiser straps and on-camera LEDs

The German-made Kaiser line-up of photo accessories, which covers a wide range of photo-related products, is distributed in the UK by Fotospeed, a name that many members will recognise for its inkjet papers and ink solutions. Kaiser itself is a company that has been around for years. Its enlargers are still going as are the digital versions of its copy stands for making digital copies of artwork and books. They also have a host of photo and camera-related accessories - whether it's screen protectors, desktop lights or push-on or snap-on lens caps.

Photographers will doubtless want to focus on the Kaiser lighting range, which includes popular on-camera constant LED panel lights. The 'StarCluster' for DSLRs/video cameras is the flagship, the 'SmartCluster Micro' is a smaller item designed for the likes of iPhones, plus there is a 'SmartCluster Midi' in between for use with compact cameras.

The latter is a 7x5cm panel with 80 LEDs, continuously dimmable between 7 and 100%, and offering 190 lux luminance at one metre, plus 120° angle of rotation. It features a 1/4-inch tripod thread, swivel joint and diffuser screen and artificial light filter. Battery is recharged via USB.

Kaiser also offers the convenient solution of the 'Action Strap' aimed at DSLR, bridge and mirror-less camera owners. As the 'Action Strap' name would suggest, safe and convenient carrying plus fast and easy access for taking photos or video is the pitch here. It boasts an ergonomic fit, and runs diagonally across the chest and back. A wide padded shoulder rest features a non-slip layer and quick-release lock with 120° swivel joint. There is also an additional tether strap to keep the main strap in position during fast moves, and a coupling piece to attach to the tripod thread of the camera itself. With the camera being freely rotatable, strap length can be adjusted up to 61 inches - so it's extremely versatile.

www.fotospeed.com

www.kaiser-fototechnik.de

Saramonic audio products for DSLRs

The accessibly priced Saramonic range of high-quality, yet lowcost products is firmly pitched at the enthusiast - whilst also being suitable for professionals.

Introduced to the UK via distributor Kenro, they're aimed at everyone wanting to achieve better sound for their DSLR or smartphone movies.

Obviously if the audio isn't good when shooting video, whether on your phone or DSLR, then it jars a lot more than a bad image, so having high-quality audio is key.

Recommended picks from the Saramonic range include the

SR-AX100 Universal Audio Adaptor for DSLRs and Camcorders. This features a universal attachment for cameras and camcorders via a standard hot shoe. No batteries are required and inputs include one stereo 3.5mm (1/8") mini jack input to connect a stereo microphone.

There are also two mono 3.5mm (1/8") mini jack inputs to connect mono microphones.

The range runs 'good, better, best', moving from the entry level AX100, through the AX101 and then on to the AX107. The 'better' option in the Saramonic SR-AX101 Passive 2-channel XLR Audio Adaptor features two balanced XLR inputs and one 3.5mm auxiliary mini jack input. It also features one stereo 3.5mm mini jack output. It's camera/camcorder mountable and is constructed from a plastic chassis with a tripod socket. No batteries are required.

The third and top-level adaptor from Saramonic is the SR-AX107 2-channel Active XLR Audio Adaptor. This is a two-channel XLR audio adaptor with preamplifiers and phantom power, ideal for use with any DSLR with a built-in microphone jack.

A further alternative, for anyone recording interviews, is the Saramonic SR-LMX1 Lavalier Microphone for smartphones.

This is a clip-on omnidirectional microphone for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Android devices. A mic clip is included for securing the microphone to clothing as well as a pop-up shield and 'dead cat' to avoid wind noise.

Further products include the SR-WM4C Wireless Microphone system, with detachable and flexible antenna, which can be rotated 360 degrees for best sound. Prices start from £39.96 for the entry level SR-AX100. The AX101 is just under £80 and the top of the range SR-AX107 is £159.

www.kenro.co.uk

Kenro tripods and universal battery charger

UK photo distributor Kenro also has its own branded range of devices for photographers. These include the Kenro Universal Charger. Extremely handy, versatile - and definitely an accessory for every photographers' camera bag - this can replenish AA- and AAA-size batteries as well as many types of camera and video packs, plus smartphones and digital cameras via a USB port, which saves the need to remove the batteries from such devices. The cost is £23.94, and it comes in a blister pack with UK plug and car adaptor.

The distributor also offers a range of Kenro own-brand video tripods - which follow on from its travel tripod line-up announced in the second half of 2015. There are also two separately available video heads (the Kenro VHO1F with 5kg max load and VHO2F with 8kg max load), for those videographers who may already own a set of legs. Naturally both boast a smooth, fluid action for panning shots.

Like the travel tripod sets before them, the advantage of the three latest video kits - the Kenro Twin Tube Video Tripod Kit, Kenro Standard Video Tripod Kit and Kenro Video Monopod Kit (Aluminium) - is that they are supplied with everything 'ready to go', fold up to a nice compact size and there is even a durable good-quality carry case provided for each.

Main shared features include a ball-action head, whilst the Video Monopod and Standard Tripod feature a padded foam handgrip and maximum load capacity of 5kg each. The pro-grade Twin Tube kit meanwhile features twist lock legs and a higher load capacity of 6kg. The added pitch is that each of the tripods offers a good weightbearing capability and they come with the peace of mind of a six-year warranty.

www.kenro.co.uk

The Flash Centre

Wanting to set up your own studio or get some location lights in?

Members of The Societies might like to know that Elinchrom distributor, The Flash Centre has summer deals running until 30 September covering a range of sundry accessories, as well as its entire line-up of compact flash heads, including the D-Lite RX, BRX and ELC Pro HD, plus its portable ELB-400 location flash system.

In terms of the accessories, extra 20% discounts are offered when purchasing lighting kits with 'essential' accessories including the Skyport Receiver Plus, Snoot & Grid kit, 18cm Reflector and Grid kit, 18cm Filter Holder Ring, 21cm 10-piece colour gels set, four-piece deflector set and Portalite Softbox 56cm Octa. There is likewise 20% off its range of professional accessories when purchased with a twin-head or triple-head ELC Pro HD kit. Those items covered by the deal include the Skyport Receiver Plus, use of which allows photographers to incorporate existing speedlights into their set-up.

Also being offered up as part of the 20% off deals - when bought with any D-Lite 4, BRX 500, ELC ProHD 500 or 1000 Head, is the ProTec 3 Head Rolling Case for photographers. The pitch for this bag is that, if you're buying a third head to go with an existing kit, why not add a rolling case to carry the lot in. It features an array of dividers to ensure plentiful layout options, and also includes a rain cover and straps to mount stands to the exterior.

For the full range of money-saving summer deals on lights and accessories, head to the below URL before 30 September.

Deals aside, as of June the Flash Centre has had new Elinchrom three head kit configurations - the idea being that value for money is once again offered. The D-Lite and BRX kits come with both the 66 square and 56 octa portalites as well as translucent and silver umbrellas. The range of accessories included also provide a multitude of lighting options, from hard direct (16 cm reflector) to big and diffuse (translucent umbrella) in order that, according to the company, photographers will find every look they need is covered.

www.theflashcentre.com

Zeiss Batis 18mm lens and Lens Gear Rings

If you are one of the swelling army of owners of the mirrorless full-frame system cameras from Sony then you may be interested in the recently released 18mm addition to the Batis family of lenses. Zeiss claims that it provides consistent image quality right into the corners, suggesting the lens is ideally suited to landscape, astro and architectural photography.

Compatible with all E-mount camera systems, properties of the Zeiss Batis range include fast, quiet autofocus, plus protection against dust and spray water. Furthermore an innovative OLED display shows the distance and depth of field to ensure focus is correctly set.

In addition to the 18mm, photographers will want to check out Zeiss' Lens Gear Rings, said to open up its range of lenses to filmmakers. The gear rings come in four different sizes - mini, small, medium and large - to achieve precise results with a follow focus system on set. Zeiss says the allmetal rings are compatible with its Milvus, Otus and Loxia lenses.

For those not in the know already, Zeiss claims its Otus lenses are designed to offer the highest possible performance. Meanwhile its Milvus lenses are said to deliver consistent image performance across all focal lengths - regardless of whether they are used for portrait, landscape, event or other types of photography. Loxia lenses are described as lightweight and providing the creative possibilities of manual focus with Sony mirrorless full-frame cameras, whilst Touit lenses are designed for Sony NEX or Fujifilm X models.

Gear of the year Zeiss Batis 18mm lens and Lens Gear Rings If you are one of the swelling army of owners of the mirrorless full-frame system cameras from Sony then you may be interested in the recently released 18mm addition to the Batis family of lenses. Zeiss claims that it provides consistent image quality right into the corners, suggesting the lens is ideally suited to landscape, astro and architectural photography.

Compatible with all E-mount camera systems, properties of the Zeiss Batis range include fast, quiet autofocus, plus protection against dust and spray water. Furthermore an innovative OLED display shows the distance and depth of field to ensure focus is correctly set.

In addition to the 18mm, photographers will want to check out Zeiss' Lens Gear Rings, said to open up its range of lenses to filmmakers. The gear rings come in four different sizes - mini, small, medium and large - to achieve precise results with a follow focus system on set. Zeiss says the allmetal rings are compatible with its Milvus, Otus and Loxia lenses.

For those not in the know already, Zeiss claims its Otus lenses are designed to offer the highest possible performance. Meanwhile its Milvus lenses are said to deliver consistent image performance across all focal lengths - regardless of whether they are used for portrait, landscape, event or other types of photography. Loxia lenses are described as lightweight and providing the creative possibilities of manual focus with Sony mirrorless full-frame cameras, whilst Touit lenses are designed for Sony NEX or Fujifilm X models.

www.zeiss.com

Fujifilm

Fujifilm has announced some very interesting new accessories to go alongside its freshly unveiled X-T2 mirror-less 'X' system camera.

These include a new flash - in the EF-X500 - and the VPB-XT2 Vertical Power Booster grip for photographers. The grip is not just about a comfortable hold and increased battery life, but actually increase the performance of the camera to which it is attached, according to Fuji.

For example, with the grip in 'boost' mode, photographers can go from shooting at 8fps to 11fps. It also holds an additional two batteries though, which, in tandem with a third battery in the camera itself, extends power duration to the equivalent of 1,000 shots. The grip can be fully charged and ready to go in two hours, whilst it also provides the ability to record up to 30 minutes of 4K video footage, for those recording with the new SLR-styled X-T2.

The Fujifilm EF-X500 shoe mount flash, however, is suited for the X-T1, X-T2 and X-Pro2, and is, like those cameras, weather and dust resistant. It offers a Guide Number of 50 and wireless flash, with four communication channels to choose from.

www.fujifilm.co.uk

MyMyk camera audio systems, PocketWizard, Sekonic & Westcott

Arriving in the UK via JP Distribution, MyMyk is an Australian brand of audio accessories for photographers/videographers recording with their DSLRs. Construction is said to be 'robust', as the devices are built from polycarbon ABS mouldings for extra rigidity. Recommended from the range are a directional shotgun microphone in the £149 'SmartMyk', designed for DSLRs, mirrorless or video cameras, and the self-explanatory SmartMyk Windshield for the same, at £59. This is claimed to successfully reduce wind noise by up to 20dB. Alternatively there is the 'SmartLynk' compact two-channel mixer at an affordable £199, designed to allow videographers to monitor their sound input prior to and during recording.

It also features a removable cold shoe to reveal external ¼-inch thread in the base, making attachment to a tripod, pistol grip or boom pole a simple process.

Also from the same UK distributor is the PocketWizard Plus IV Autosensing Transceiver. This is being pitched as an easy-to-use, reliable wireless trigger, said to allow photographers the benefit of on-camera TTL flash combined with remote manual flash. Priced at £150, when used as a transmitter, the top shoe provides on-camera TTL compatibility with 'most' Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Fuji and Olympus cameras and flashes. When used as a receiver, the top shoe pairs with virtually any speedlight for easy mounting and manual power adjustment of a remote flash.

In terms of related products, Sekonic has two versions of its Litemaster Pro L-478 series touch-screen operated light meters. The new models of L478DREL and L478DRPX, developed with cooperation of Elinchrom in Switzerland and Phottix in Hong Kong, offer wireless triggering and power control of Elinchrom flash units and triggering of flashes and radio triggers using the ELSkyport and Phottix Strato II protocol, respectively. The pair utilise Sekonic's DTS (Data Transfer Software) system that automates meter calibration to the camera inuse, and expanded cine features. Each meter features a distinctive, signature coloured rubber surround. The Sekonic LITEMASTER PRO L478 Series compact size is both instantly familiar and comfortable to use. The 2.7-inch LCD display is said to be clear and understandable, whilst settings are altered by simply touching or sliding a finger over the screen.

Those in the market for light panels meanwhile are directed to the new 'Flex' lighting system bearing the Westcott brand. Their lightweight and 1/4-inch thin mouldable framework is said to allow photographers to shape the light in unique ways, delivering up to a 360-degree spread of light. Flex LED panels can also be paired with the Scrim Jim Cine modular frame system (which allows you to shape, block and modify light) to provide a powerful, adaptable and professional lighting set-up for any situation.

www.mymyk.com
www.pocketwizard.com
www.sekonic.com
www.fjwestcott.com

Think Tank Photo

Distributed in the UK by Snapper Stuff, Think Tank Photo has built a reputation for rugged and practical bags to accommodate all your photo gear. This now extends even to camera drones, with the introduction of Think Tank's 'Helipak for DJI Inspire', a protective backpack for said DJI device or similarly sized quadcopters. Movable dividers allow for a degree of customising, whilst a tuck-away harness is said to provide support for your back. There is also a removable padded waist belt, while a front pocket provides space for auxiliary items, such as a jacket, 17-inch laptop or large computer tablet. Suggested retail price for the Helipak for DJI Inspire is £296.50.

Think Tank has also released a complete range of bags aimed at photographers shooting video on their DSLRs and embarking on 'run and gun' assignments - there are seven soft-sided video cases in all to choose from, with sizes differing. The pitch is that they offer both protection and functionality.

The largest, the Video Rig 24 rolling case, holds a fully assembled 24-inch video rig and features inset channel aluminum tubing for added strength and durability. The mid-sized bag, the Video Transport 20 rolling case, holds a video camera body, four to six lenses (detached), shotgun microphone, small monitor, 4K recorder, audio recorder, additional accessories and up to a 17-inch laptop in a padded sleeve.

The smallest, the Video Workhorse 19 shoulder bag, holds a professional camcorder or video cameras up to 19-inch and features striated aluminum and arched twin-wall reinforced struts to create a collapse-proof lid.



Updated 27/04/2026 16:44:22 Last Modified: Monday, 27 April 2026