Photography Backup Options
/It's critical that you have a reliable backup system in place. I offer two suggestions for backing up your photos and video.
Read MoreIt's critical that you have a reliable backup system in place. I offer two suggestions for backing up your photos and video.
Read MoreB&H Photo has the tiny and affordable 35mm f/2.8 lens for Sony FE mount on sale TODAY for just $249. This is an autofocus lens that is fun to throw on your Sony - it makes your mirrorless camera so small and light AND it is sharp! I was blown away by how sharp this lens is, even wide open. At $249 it is must buy! Buy from B&H Photo - $100 OFF TODAY ONLYSample Photos Rokinon 35mm f/2.8[gallery columns="5" ids="18835,18836,18837,18838,18839"]
I have also been testing the SmallRig L-Bracket system for my Sony a7RIII for a few months and I love thisL_Bracket. It provides a small amount of additional grip, making the camera more comfortable and the Arca Swiss bottom and side plate make tripod mounting easy. The side plate is adjustable or you can remove it completely.The included hex wrench is magnetically attached to the bottom making sure it is always available. I am used to high-quality L brackets costing several hundred dollars. This SmallRig bracket is just $47!! It attaches through the tripod socket and sits very securely at the base of your camera. Remember the weakest point in weather sealing on the Sony cameras is the bottom, attaching the SmallRig L-Bracket raises the camera off whatever surface you place it on, add additional protection. I no longer worry about where I am setting my camera down.Learn More at SmallRig
For the last week, I have been testing the Breakthrough Filters Magnetic Filter System. The system uses magnets to attach filters that sit on the end of your lens. The magnetic system means no screwing on and off of filters and no getting filters stuck on adapter rings or on the end of your lens. You do need to screw on the Magnetic filter holder.
Fastest on/off of any filter system
Mount securely but remove easily
Low profile
Sharp/Extremely high quality
No color cast
Not easily stackable*
Cannot use with a lens hood
*Breakthrough Photography solution to the stackable issue - they sell filters that combine two functions - Their Dark CPL filters combine a circular polarizer with a 3 or 6 stop ND. Alternatively, you have the option of buying an additional filter holder that allows you to use add-on square filters.
Alternative:
Manfrotto offers a similar system that allows you to bring your own filters - they sell you a holder and adapters for your filter. I hope to bring you a hands-on review soon but if you already have existing filters the cost is much cheaper.
Learn More
https://youtu.be/EwxQlKuIKj8 Make awesome splash photos in your home with the MIOPS Splash Water Drop Kit. Throw in a flash and a colored gel and you can create some EPIC photos with the press of a single button.MIOPS Splash Kit - https://bhpho.to/2LtVwxUSplash Kit Holder - https://bhpho.to/2JgtBooCamera Connection Cord - https://bhpho.to/2JhXp47Cheap flash w/ PC sync - https://bhpho.to/2JnRiaqAlready have a flash? Alternative - https://bhpho.to/2JjCf5mAffordable Flash Gel Kit - https://bhpho.to/2JrcwnyNeed a glass container recommendation: https://amzn.to/2JqgvAQYou can also purchase gear at https://www.miops.com/miops-splash/Camera settingsShutter Speed: BULBISO 100Aperture f/16Flash SettingsManual 1/64 powerMIOPS App SettingsDrop 1: 50msDelay 100mmsDrop 2: 50msDelay: 200ms - Flash ModeFor the purpose of the video you saw me shoot during the daylight hours. The resulting images are ok but I found the best images in a dark room (I just waited until the sun set and turned off all the lights) With the flash on a fairly low power you can get some extremely colorful images.GALLERY of MIOPS Splash Water Drop Kit photos by Toby
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBsy4J4U39gWhen traveling you still need to keep everything charged and ready to go. From camera batteries to your phone there are a few items out there that will make your next trip a bit easier.
Check out more gear!➨ My Recommended Gear: https://kit.com/photorectoby➨ Recommended Travel Gear: https://kit.com/photorectoby/travel-gear
Visiting the SpiderBooth at WPPI - We take a look at their new products and Toby's favorite - the SpiderLight Backpacker.
Buy the SpiderLight Backpacker at https://bhpho.to/2HDpSvV
Holster your camera on your belt OR on your backpack strap.
Works on backpack strap or messenger bag strap.
Holster lock keeps camera securely in place.
Velcro elastic strap wraps around your lens, keeping it secure.
Great for biking with your camera!
Allows full compatibility with GoPro accessories/cameras.
Your GoPro camera locks securely in place.
Arca-Swiss geometry/design – go from your backpack holster, right to your Acra-Swiss tripod head.
Also Watch: Camera Carry Systems -Straps, Slings, Belts, Bags, Packs, TANGLED!!!
Sony Brings Radio to Flagship HVL-F60RM FlashThe HVL-F60RM External Flash from Sony is the new top of the line flash. similar to F45RM, the F60RM offers several improvements in operability, performance, and build quality that make it a worthy upgrade. The most significant upgrade is the implementation of Sony's 2.4GHz Radio System, which allows it to function as either a controller or remote flash from up to 98' away with full TTL support, including high-speed sync. It is also fully compatible with all existing Sony flash components, including the F45RM External Flash and WRC1M Wireless Radio Commander.Sony continues to fill out the accessories and lenses that professionals require. In my opinion, the ecosystem is on par with Sony and Nikon for any studio and/or portraiture work.Full Specs of the F60RM Flash
B&H Preorders are not live yet - sign up for notificationAdditional Battery pack available Compatible Cameras:
UPDATE: April 10, 2019 - Sony released firmware 3.0 which includes in-camera intervalometer. learn more. You may still want the MIOPS device below which does offer additional features and advantages.Sony ditched the internal apps for the a9, a7RIII and a7III - if you want automated time-lapse functionality you will need a separate device - I share some options for time lapses with Sony a9, a7iii and a7Riii.Time-lapse captured with Sony a7Riii and Miops Mobile Remotehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1Xo0eVldWQ
Scroll to the bottom for a few tips for shooting a time lapse -
Pro
Free
Nothing required
Creates a video in camera, no software required
Con
Limited to 1080p
Slowest limited to 1fps, no pause between captures - not good for longer time lapses
Limited editing with the video file
Standard Intervalometer ($25)Pro
Cheap and simple to operate
Powered by 2 aaa (easy to find or carry backups)
Con
Cheaply made
Limited control - basically delayed start and fire every x seconds/minutes/hours
Limited feedback on progress - countdown only
Dangles from camera (unless you spend more for the wireless version)
Wired: Cheap, less than $20Wireless: Ziv TRS-10 Timer Remote for $87Miops App + dongle ($35) Buy dongle from Amazon| MIOPS WebsitePro
Over a dozen ways to trigger your camera from simple trigger, intervalometer, sound motion etc
Helpful feedback during time-lapse or with trigger on screen
Build scenarios for additional and powerful customization (e.g. setup a trigger that with a noise above x db will start a timelapse)
Exposure ramping options for day to night time lapses
Con
Your phone is tethered to your camera
Your phone is dangling unless you clip it in the hot shoe or on the tripod
Recommended hotshoe phone holdersCheap: DSLR Hotshoe cellphone holderRock solid but pricey: MeFoto Sidekick + hotshoe mount
Miops Mobile Remote ($99) Buy remote from Amazon | MIOPS WebsitePro
Low energy Bluetooth connection
Control camera remotely - smartphone does not need to stay on or connected
Over a dozen ways to trigger your camera from simple trigger, intervalometer, sound motion etc
Good feedback on progress of timelapse
Build scenarios for additional and powerful customization (e.g. setup a trigger that with a noise above x db will start a timelapse)
exposure ramping options for day to night time lapses
Very portable remote (tiny, really)
Great battery life and auto shut off (when not running a timelapse)
Con
Expensive
Orange light flashes brightly when triggered - fine during the day but too bright at night- I cover mine with a lens cloth to hide the light
USB charging
Occupies hotshoe or you can let it dangle which is awkward
Time Lapse Tips:
Full Manual Settings
Manual focus
A 2-3 second gap between shots
Playback at 24fps means 24 shots will equal 1 second of video.
Most viewers only want to see a single scene for 10-15 seconds
Make sure camera is VERY stable. If on soft ground/snow/ sand it is possible that the camera will drift a little during the timelapse and that will be visible in playback.
In a world where we're always on the go sometimes it's nice to be able to print while we're out as well. With recent travels I have quickly made some friends by providing a print - sharing a phot with your subject is a nice gesture and really helps make a connection.https://www.instagram.com/p/BeDs5wAnomb/?taken-by=photorectobyThe ability to take something from your camera, edit it on the go, and print within a few minutes while at a location. A keepsake for you, or in the case of a McKay Photography Academy Tour, a really great souvenir you can pass out to someone nice enough to pose for a shot.https://www.facebook.com/david.mckay.5682/posts/10213396792028253?pnref=story
If you want something a bit more customizable you can't go wrong with this pocket-sized printer. The Polaroid Zip is a great way to get those photos off in about a minute. The 2 x 3" prints are waterproof and ready to go once they pop out.Photos are transferred via Bluetooth from your phone making smartphone shots easy enough to edit and print. As for your camera, if it has the ability to send a photo to your phone or you have a card reader your all set. Take a shot on your nice DSLR, send to phone, edit, and print.Available at Amazon & B&HPrint Refill - Amazon | B&H
While the Polaroid Zip offers customizability it can be a bit much getting it going, sometimes you just want the shot (or you hate all that technology). That's where the Instax cameras come in as our top choice for instant cameras and a great present for kids as well. Snap the shot and out it comes a 2.4 x 1.8" print just like the Polaroid's of the past. All while being small enough to throw in a pocket or your bag.FYI: With the Mini 70 you will need to pick up a few more CR2 Batteries from Amazon, otherwise, the Mini 90 comes with a rechargeable battery.
The Inrigo waterproof bag is a neat design new to Kickstarter, or at least a dry one. While moisture damage is a bit rarer here in Michigan, traveling to humid countries or shooting around water can cause significant issues to your gear. The Inrigo is that extra bit of insurance and peace of mind you might want to keep things safe and dry. Designed to be a drybox on the go the airtight Inrigo is IP78 waterproof rated so your gear stays dry while in water up to a meter deep. With its airtight seal, the bag even has the option to inflate to provide a bit more protection for bumps and the ability to float if the worst occurs.Coming in two models, you've got a bit of a choice in how you want to pack your gear. The LitePak acts as a dry spot to carry your normal camera bag, acting as a shell against the elements. The ProPak works as a standard camera bag or the same as the LitePak with two interior storage totes for your gear and a dehumidifier. Both still have the basics though with a tripod mount, water bottle holder, space for a tablet, and more.While it's a waterproof bag, it's also a smart one, using temperature and humidity sensors combined with Bluetooth. If it starts to get too hot or humid you'll automatically get a warning on your smartphone to see if there's an issue. As a plus, if you're out of range you can also get alerts so you don't lose track of your bag.Find out more on Inrigo's Kickstarter page and sign up while they still have early bird pledges available on the LitePak. Once these go retail they will be selling for $250-299 so getting the LitePak for $139 and ProPack for $179 is a steal. If everything stays on track the bags will be out around May of 2018. For those planning on traveling or shooting around water often this is the bag you might want to pick up.
Let's talk about pro level gear for your office - the stuff that makes editing photos and video a painless experience - from fast computers and huge raid drives to beautiful 4k monitors in this episode of the 2017 Holiday Gift Guide.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BFb_F4p0KU
Specs -4.2 GHz Intel Core i7 Quad-Core8GB of DDR4 RAM | 512GB SSD (Buy Additional RAM)27" 5120 x 2880 IPS Retina 5K DisplayAMD Radeon Pro 580 Graphics Card (8GB)UHS-II SDXC Card ReaderThunderbolt 3 | USB 3.0 Type-AI have an older version of this iMac and love it - a beautiful screen that needs no calibration and performance that easily handles editing photos and 4k video. I recommend you buy with just 8GB of RAM and buy separately, it is VERY easy to install and saves you almost $400.Buy from B&H Photo: Recommended 5k iMac
Specs -2.9 GHz Intel Core i7 Quad-Core16GB of 2133 MHz RAM | 512GB SSD15.4" 2880 x 1800 Retina DisplayAMD Radeon Pro 560 Graphics (4GB GGDR5)An updated version of my trusty MacBook Pro - this will handle all your editing needs. While I would love to save a few pounds and go with the 13 the truth is you save less than 2lbs and give up significant screen real estate. For photo editing that doesn't feel cramped, I need 15" screen.Buy from B&H Photo: Recommended Laptop 15" Macbook Pro
Talking backup drives is never very exciting but this raid drive is ridiculously fast and comes in a variety of sizes. I am currently running the 6Big with 6, 6TB drives giving me 30TB of space and peace of mind with the raid system protecting me from drive failure.Specs-6 x 6TB Enterprise-Class 3.5" HDDsSix Hot-Swappable Drive Bays2 x Thunderbolt 3, 1 x USB 3.10/1/5/6/10/50 RAID SupportBuy from B&H Photo: Lacie 6Big
Specs -27" In-Plane Switching (IPS) MonitorUSB Type-C / HDMI / DP Inputs3840 x 2160 Resolution1000:1 Contrast RatioI have been using this monitor for a few weeks now and the resolution and color is lovely - this is a fantastic monitor for editing with easy custom setup, a removable shade/glare hood and a nice matte finish to the screen.Buy from B&H Photo: Beautiful 4K Monitor
B&H Photo Video is clearing out their inventory of Apple 15.4″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar. discounts range between $500 and $700 from regular price. Although these are 2016 models the upgrades in 2017 were minor and this makes it an excellent deal for a near top-of-the line Mac model. Four options are available along with a 15% discount on AppleCare15.4″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (Silver, 2.7 GHz i7, 512 GB) for $2099.00 at B&H15.4″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (Silver, 2.6 GHz i7, 256 GB) for $1899.00 at B&H15.4″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (Space Gray, 2.7 GHz i7, 512 GB) for $2099.00 at B&H15.4″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (Space Gray, 2.6 GHz i7, 256 GB) for $1899.00 at B&H
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIJnUuIhy-wI have used the Nisi Filter System for over a year now and think this is the best system out there.To start you pick up the V5 Pro kit for $180 - I recommend you purchase from B&H Photo This includes a nice protective case, high-quality circular polarizer that is integrated into the 82mm ring, the filter holder and adapter rings (that allow the holder to be used with lenses that have 67mm, 72mm, or 77mm front filter threads. Additional rings are available for purchase)I recommend you add:
The 6 stop allows you to easily do long exposures in cloudy conditions or near sunrise/sunset. If you want to achieve long exposures in bright conditions pick up the Nano IRND 3.0 Filter (10 Stop) [Buy from B&H Photo] The Nisi V5 Pro holder is their latest edition and it's improved over the original. Earlier models were very difficult to slide the glass plates in/out of and this updated version is much better while still holding them securely in place.Advantages of Nisi over LeeThe NISI system comes in a nice leather carrying case everything is protected and a silent soft magnetic latch makes it easy to access. Downside - it is a little bulkyNisi offers an integrated circular polarizer often times when I'm using these filters I'm photographing water and I do want to use a circular polarizer to control or cut the amount of Reflections and it's so easy to rotate with little dials on the edge of the filter holder.The Nisi system comes with a variety of adapters that allow you to use it with lenses- 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, and 82mm Adapter Rings. Additional adapter rings are available for purchase. Quality - Extremely sharp and no color casts. I found the Lee system to have strong cool or blue color casts in their stronger ND filters. Why do I recommend the NISI system over stacking several circular filters?
In preparation for an upcoming lengthy international trip, I decided to purchase the ThinkTank SubUrban Disguise 10. I already own the ThinkTank CityWalker 20 (which has been discontinued but is very similar to this model) and a LowePro backpack (this model). Currently, I use the CityWalker for day trips and other shorter excursions and the LowePro backpack for airplane travel and other longer trips. I love both of these bags and have been very happy with them for these purposes. However, for my impending trip, I wanted a smaller bag that will hold a limited amount of gear safely without weighing me and my 5'2" frame down too much. I will be doing a ton of walking in warm weather and will be in and out of historic sites and small restaurants and cafes with a larger travel group, which means a big bag isn't ideal. After consulting with the Photorec support group and the ThinkTank support staff, I settled on the ThinkTankSubUrban Disguise 10.In my ThinkTank SubUrban Disguise 10: Unboxing + Initial Thoughts post, I discuss the following points.
I also include detailed photos, showcasing every aspect of this camera bag and the exact gear I plan to carry in the ThinkTank SubUrban Disguise 10.Read the full post over on roseclearfield.com: ThinkTank SubUrban Disguise 10: Unboxing and Initial Thoughts.Please note that this post is only the unboxing and my initial thoughts. It is not a comprehensive review of the ThinkTank SubUrban Disguise 10. Following my trip, I do plan to write a full review. When it's available, I'll link it to this post.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this bag!
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https://youtu.be/UWWsvoKWQAk I just finished a fantastic trip in exploring the coast and islands of Southern Croatia. Beautiful country, friendly people. My goal on this trip was to produce video first and photos second. With video being my primary goal I am calling this the
[vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Mindshift Gear - Backlight 26LAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Camera Holster - Spider Backpacker KitAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Secondary Bag - Multi-Mount Holster 30Amazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Panasonic GH5Amazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Lumix 12-60 f/2.8-4 LensAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Lumix 42.5mm f/1.7 LensAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Lumix 45-200 f/4.0-5.6 LensAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Rokinon 7.5mm f/3.5 lensAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Rode Video Micro ProAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Sony RX1R IIAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]DJI Mavic Pro - Fly More SystemAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Hoya Circular Polarizers for each lensB&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Hoya ND Filters 0.3 for each lensB&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]MeFoto Carbon Fiber Road TripAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/4"][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/4"]Olympus TG Tracker WP CameraAmazon | B&H[/vc_column][/vc_row]
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pk0m0e5Ways[/embed]With Toby traveling across the globe we've got a few MUST HAVE gear that always comes along on every trip/shoot. Here are our favorite pieces of non-photo gear with links to buy below.
I hope you have a backup plan in place for ALL your important photos and documents, but if you don't! Take a few minutes to look at some options.Readers and viewers share their sad stories of losing ALL of their photos! Please back up your photos, Don't think it won't ever happen to you! I recommend the 3-2-1 backup strategy. A 3-2-1 strategy means having at least 3 total copies of your data, 2 of which are local but on different devices, and at least 1 copy offsite or in the cloud.Example: You have captured a nice family photo and downloaded it to your computer. That copy on your computer is ONE copy. Now you need to back up to a second device in the home- an external HD is an easy solution and Amazon has excellent deals on BIG hard drives.I currently recommend - WD 4TB RED for just $102!You now have TWO copies, but both are local and if anything happens to your house ... to be safe you should have an offsite copy. Google Photos, Dropbox and Amazon Prime Photos are all systems that can help.Amazon Prime - $10.99 a month - Free 2-day shipping, Movies & TV Shows and Unlimited Photo storage to backup on ALL your devices.
Your Prime membership comes with free unlimited photo storage through Prime Photos, which lets you securely save as many photos as you like and see them on your phone, computer, or tablet. You can share this Prime benefit and give free photo storage to up to five family members or friends. Collect photos together with your invited family and friends in the Family Vault and store memories from everyone in one safe place. New photo search technology makes it easy to find specific photos by searching for things like “sunset” or “Seattle,” and your photos are organized automatically so it’s easy to find and enjoy them.
B&H Photo Battery Grip Sale - Canon | Nikon | Sony | Panasonic | Fuji
Think Tank Photo has redesigned the Airport Helipak V2.0 in an announcement this week. An updated version of a popular bag that’s airline safe, with this you have enough room for your drone, camera, up to a 15” laptop, and with a new lower price at $40 off. Thanks to our partnership with Think Tank using the links below you will receive free gear and free shipping with every order over $50.New features include:
https://vimeo.com/179970887Find out more about the Airport Helipak 2.0 and buy it today at ThinkTank.comUsing the recently released DJI Mavic Pro drone you're not tied down with a giant bag to carry it all compared to the Phantom or Inspire. For us, this means having a lightweight pack of gear that weighs less, is more comfortable, and most importantly lets us shoot longer. It's a giant convenience and Think Tank has a list of bags that will fit your new Mavic nicely.Shoulder Bags and Backpacks for the DJI™ Mavic Pro
Overall I am impressed with this small travel tripod that is a lightweight tripod at just 3.2 lbs and a packable tripod at a folded of 12.2"! AND it provides a few features that may be a gimmick but I will let you decide.https://youtu.be/C7zcg54CrXwFollow Steve on his Patagonia/Antarctica AdventureHANDS-ON MEFOTO GLOBETROTTER AIR - This new line of MEFOTO Tripods offers a very packable and lightweight tripod but at what cost? Is this the perfect travel tripod at 3.2 lbs and 12" packable AND it provides a monopod/selfie stick along with a bluetooth remote. Would you use or are they just gimmicks?Buy the MEFOTO GLOBETROTTER AIR