If “sitting is the new smoking,” then spending long hours sitting at a desk editing photos is not doing any of us photographers any favors. The FlexiSpot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad promises to fix that. The pitch is simple: walk while you work. But does it deliver?

Note: FlexiSpot sent us the MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill to review and keep. However, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts about this product are our own.

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill fits underneath many office chairs.

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

Pros

• Doubles as both an under desk walking pad and a treadmill, easily converting from one to the other in seconds
• Sturdy build
• Dual use for under a desk as a walking pad for light activities or unfolding the arms for faster walking or jogging
• Has a quiet motor that produces less than 45 decibels of noise
• Easy setup – take it out of the box, plug it in, fire up the remote, and goooooooo!
• Magnetic remote control sticks to arm
• Comfortable shock-absorbing walking pad

Cons

• No cup holder (this is a small thing, but y’know, I love my cupholders…)

I should note here that this particular model does not have an incline feature. Also, the walking surface width is a little narrow compared to full-sized treadmills. Do remember, though, that this is for under desk use as well as a treadmill!

FlexiSpot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill — Technical specifications

All of the technical specifications for the FlexiSpot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill  are from the official FlexiSpot website.

• Max Weight Capacity: 265 lbs
• Warranty: 2 Years

Dimensions:

• Walking Area: 40.5″ x 15.7″
• Handrail Height: 38.6″
• Product Size (unfolded): 49.2″ x 20.1″ x 3.1″
• Product Size (folded): 51.2″ x 22.4″ x 3.1″

Function:

• Speed Range (unfolded): 0.6 – 6.2 MPH
• Speed Range (folded): 0.6 – 4 MPH
• Power Rating: 2.25 HP
• Shock Absorption: 8 Shock-absorbing Pads
• Running Belt Layer: Multi-layer
• Magnetic Remote Control Storage Slot: √

Shipping Dimensions & Weight

• Product Weight: 46.3 lbs
• Shipping Weight: 54.2 lbs
• Package Dimension: 53.7″ x 23.8″ x 5.1″

FlexiSpot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill — Ergonomics and build quality

Parts, Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

The Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill comes packaged well. Easy setup, too, just pull it out of the box, plug it in, pull out the safety tab from the remote control, and it’s ready to go.

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill stores away easily when not in use.

The treadmill is solid, like other FlexiSpot products I’ve reviewed in the past, and comes well-packaged. Setting it up is easy: just remove the packaging, pull it out of the box, and go. All you have to do is plug it in. 

This is considered a walking pad for under the desk as well as a more “traditional” treadmill with handles. Ergonomically, it does very well at this. In fact, it fits underneath my FlexiSpot chair quite nicely, so if I don’t want to, I don’t even have to move it. I simply move the chair back and raise the desk up, and I have a walking desk almost instantly. Easy.

Also, because there are two good-quality wheels, it’s easy to wheel the treadmill around.

The remote control for the unit is straightforward and functions well. It takes a reasonably common battery, a CR2032, and comes with one already to go. Just pull the protective strip out and it’s ready to go. Initially, I was going to make mention of there being no place to put the remote control when using the treadmill. However, that’s not true. The remote control is magnetic, and sticks easily to the handles, a great feature. Also, there is a magnetic storage slot at the bottom so that it makes it harder to misplace. Since I am the Supreme Master of the Universe at misplacing things, I shall test that to its fullest capacity. But having a specific place to put it really helps organizationally.

Build quality

Tablet tray. Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

Hydraulic arms for the Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

Most of the metal parts are solid. The only time I ever was a little unsure was when putting on the plastic tablet holder on the handle. I was initially reticent to put too much pressure. But once it’s on, it feels good and solid. 

FlexiSpot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill — In the field

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill stores away easily when not in use.

Flexispot MotionX Pro 2-in-1 Under Desk Walking Pad Treadmill

Night photographers like me do a decent amount of editing. Whether it’s denoising, removing airplane trails, stacking for star trails or Milky Way photos, or making color corrections, it’s a lot of editing. Being able to not just stand but keep moving is a blessing. You don’t have to move too quickly, either. Humans were made to move, not have their hips locked in place for hours. “The motion is the lotion,” as they say.

This treadmill therefore hits the sweet spot between size and function. It fits underneath the office chair. And it also works quite well as a “traditional” treadmill, with the arms up. 

I should mention here that the top speed is different depending on whether the treadmill is folded (for use with a desk since you wouldn’t want the handles up) or unfolded. For use with a desk, the speed is 0.6 – 4 miles per hour. However, when unfolded for use as a regular treadmill with handles, the top speed increases to 6.2 miles per hour. I would imagine this is in part a safety feature. After all, I don’t think I would want my treadmill to be going at 6.2 miles per hour while editing Milky Way photos! 

The dual-purpose treadmill

I’ve used it both as an under desk walking pad and a treadmill. I love that you can use it for either. I haven’t quite gotten used to walking while using a computer, so I use it more often as a treadmill. I watch videos in front of the computer during my breaks, and that seems to work quite well for me so far. But its flexibility to be used as both is quite welcome.

Because I often hike pretty far at night into places in the Mojave Desert, using this as a treadmill will be quite welcome. I live in a beautiful place where it is easy to go for a walk outside or hike up some mountains. However, it’s not always practical to do that, as sometimes it might be too hot. It’s awfully nice to have a treadmill to keep in shape for those long night hikes.

As mentioned, the FlexiSpot MotionX Pro can be used as both an under desk walking pad and a traditional treadmill. It’s even in the name. While it isn’t alone in this niche, but it’s a legitimate contender in a field that’s still relatively small compared to the much larger pool of walking-only pads.

Considerations

I mentioned above that the pad is a little narrow. However, using it in both functions, I found the width adequate, as it is not intended for hard running. I’m tall at 6’1″ (185cm), and still didn’t find it too narrow, so that’s a good sign. This is why it’s always good to have an “in real life” experience.

There is no incline. I have to mention this. Personally, I don’t need an incline for either use. However, if you do wish to have one that inclines, FlexiSpot several of those too, including the MotionX Ultra Auto Incline Walking Treadmill and the Walking Pad Treadmill, so you’re in luck. 

So I’m left with my only real issue, which is that when you are using this as a treadmill, there is no cupholder. I guess I am too used to the large bulky treadmills at the gym, which have these. And obviously, if you are using this as an under desk walking pad, your entire desk is already a “cupholder.” 

So if my only real criticism is no cupholder when using it as a treadmill, I’d say that’s a really great product. It’s dual-purpose, solidly built, looks great, is comfortable to use, and is quiet. And that’s perfect for this photographer.

A note about carpets (and a fix!)

One thing worth knowing before you buy: the MotionX Pro cannot be used on carpet. Before you panic, this isn’t a FlexiSpot quirk. Nope. It’s rather common among treadmill manufacturers. FlexiSpot is no exception, stating that using the walking pad on a carpet may cause a fire. Do we have your attention now?

Thankfully, there is a fix! And it is simple and inexpensive: a treadmill mat. Rubber, EVA foam, or PVC all work. A mat protects the machine, stabilizes the surface, and saves your carpet from indentations. Just factor it into your budget before you buy. I purchased a WERCHO foldable PVC mat, which collapses down smaller than one that rolls up, which I like. It works well, does not slip, and is easy to fold up and put away.

Tiny Camera, Big Behind-the-Scenes Energy

I’ll start with context. I own and love the C300. It lives in my kit. It’s on light stands, hot shoes, wedged between props, or suction-cupped to something mildly questionable. It records almost every behind-the-scenes clip from my workshops and creative portrait shoots.

So when the SJCam C400 landed, the obvious question was… does it earn a spot next to the C300, or is it just “another action cam”?

Short answer: if you create educational content, behind-the-scenes footage, travel reels, or workshop coverage, the C400 makes a lot of sense.

Please note: SJCam sent me the C400 to test and review, but all thoughts are my own.

First Impressions

The C400 keeps that compact, lightweight action-camera feel but adds refinements that matter if you’re using it for content creation, not just mountain biking down a cliff.

It’s small enough to mount almost anywhere in the studio. On top of a mirrorless body. Clipped to a tripod leg. Mounted overhead for a splash workshop. No drama. No bulk. No complaining wrists.

For someone who already runs strobes, triggers, foggers, props and models in one session, small and simple is gold.

Key Specifications

• 4K video recording (up to 60fps)
• 2.33” HD touchscreen (rear)
• Front screen for framing
• 5GHz WiFi connectivity
• Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS)
• Waterproof up to 30m (with housing)
• Wide-angle lens
• USB-C charging
• Removable battery

What I Like (Especially for Workshops & BTS)

1. Dual Screens

If you talk to camera, the front screen is genuinely useful. You can frame yourself properly without guessing or filming your forehead for 12 minutes. Ask me how I know.

For workshop coverage, it’s brilliant when you’re explaining lighting setups or walking through a scene.

2. 4K 60fps

For behind-the-scenes footage, 4K gives you flexibility. You can crop, stabilise, reframe, and still maintain quality for YouTube or reels.

If you’re documenting portrait photography, fog effects, hair flicks, or fast movement, the higher frame rate helps keep things clean.

3. Size & Mounting Flexibility

This is where it shines for creative educators.

I can:

• Mount it on a light stand pointing down at a set
• Clip it behind a model for over-the-shoulder angles
• Attach it to my main camera for POV
• Stick it in awkward corners where a mirrorless body would never fit

When you’re juggling strobes and TTL flash setups, you don’t want a bulky second camera getting in the way.

4. Stabilisation

The electronic image stabilisation is solid for most situations. However I found POV on the fob/lanyard was just too jerky. I found it OK for handheld walk-and-talk segments. It’s not gimbal-level smooth, but for casual movement around a studio or location shoot, it absolutely holds up.

For travel diaries or workshop recaps, it keeps things usable without extra gear.

Real-World Use in a Photography Business

Here’s the thing. Action cameras aren’t just for surfing and off-roading

In a photography education business like mine, they’re:

• BTS content generators
• Social proof machines
• Reels and YouTube filler gold
• Workshop recap tools
• Client experience documentation

If you’re serious about growing on YouTube or Instagram, consistent behind-the-scenes footage builds trust fast. The C400 makes that easy because it’s simple to deploy.

And simple wins when you’re already managing light ratios and model direction.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Dual screens for easy framing
• 4K 60fps recording
• Good electronic stabilisation for handheld use
• Waterproof with housing
• Affordable compared to premium action cams
• Easy mounting options

Cons

• Audio is fine but not studio-grade, you’ll still want an external mic for polished YouTube
• Touchscreen is small if you’re used to large mirrorless displays but bigger than to C300
• Low light performance is decent, but it’s still a small-sensor action camera
• No physical gimble

C400 vs C300 (From a Real User)

Since I use the C300 regularly, here’s how I see it:

• If you want something compact and reliable for general BTS, the C300 already does a solid job.
• The C400 steps things up with smoother 4K 60fps options and dual screens.
• If you’re increasing video content or doing more talking-head and workshop coverage, the C400 makes that workflow smoother.

Would I replace my C300? Not necessarily.
Would I happily run both at the same time for multi-angle coverage? Absolutely.

Who Is It For?

• Photography educators
• Workshop hosts
• Creators building YouTube channels
• Travel photographers wanting lightweight 4K video
• Anyone who wants simple, reliable BTS capture

If you’re trying to grow your creative brand, documenting the process is as important as the final image.

Check out some Behind the Scenes videos that were recorded on the SJCam C400 Camera

• Creepy Clown BTS
• Queen of Hearts Workshop BTS

Peak Design is expanding its popular Travel Line with four refined new formats, now launching via Kickstarter. Designed for modern travel, the new collection blends versatility, intuitive organisation, and a clean aesthetic that moves effortlessly from weekend trips to longer journeys.

Announced from San Francisco on March 3, 2026, the expansion introduces the Travel Backpack 2-in-1, Travel Weekender 25L, Travel Backpack 20L, and Travel Crossbody 3L. Each silhouette is built to integrate seamlessly into Peak Design’s broader travel ecosystem while offering more flexibility for different styles of travel.

Founder and CEO Peter Dering explained that the new range builds on the success of the brand’s previous Kickstarter campaigns, including the Roller Pro Carry-On. While that launch marked a significant milestone, this collection focuses on offering more adaptable carry options for travellers who need different solutions depending on the trip.

Travel Backpack 2-in-1 – $399.95

The headline piece of the launch is the Travel Backpack 2-in-1, a modular system designed as a true one-bag travel solution. The setup includes a 34L base pack paired with a 16L zip-off daypack. Together, they function as a 40L international carry-on. Separately, they offer flexibility for day trips or lighter carry.

Constructed from weatherproof recycled materials, the bag includes theft-deterrent features, discreet AirTag storage, and full compatibility with Peak Design Packing Cubes and Camera Cubes. A detachable and stowable hipbelt adds further comfort for extended travel days.

Travel Weekender 25L – $199.95

The Travel Weekender 25L marks Peak Design’s first structured duffel. Designed for short trips, it features a stand-up structure for easy packing and a wide clamshell opening for full access to the main compartment.

Internally, stretch mesh and zippered pockets keep gear organised, while padded sleeves accommodate a 16-inch laptop and 13-inch tablet. A folding bottom panel allows the bag to compress for under-seat storage or collapse flat when not in use, offering practical versatility for weekend travel.

Travel Backpack 20L – $199.95

The Travel Backpack 20L is the brand’s most compact travel backpack to date. It works equally well as an everyday carry bag or as a streamlined personal item for flights.

An expandable main compartment and clamshell opening simplify packing. Hidden storage options, including space for a water bottle and AirTag, add security and convenience. A vertical luggage pass-through allows the bag to sit securely beneath a roller handle, and external straps accommodate Peak Design’s Travel Tripod.

Travel Crossbody 3L – $99.95

Compact and minimal, the Travel Crossbody 3L draws inspiration from Peak Design’s Tech Pouch. Its origami-style interior keeps small essentials visible and accessible, while a magnetic exterior phone pocket enables quick one-handed access.

Made from weatherproof recycled materials with durable hardware, it’s designed for travel days, city exploration, and everyday use.

Colours, Certification, and Availability

All four bags are available in Black, Sage, and Stone. Each style is Fair Trade Certified and Climate Label Certified, reinforcing Peak Design’s ongoing sustainability commitments.

This launch represents Peak Design’s 16th Kickstarter campaign, further cementing its reputation as one of the world’s most successful crowdfunded brands. The collection is available at a pre-sale discount through Kickstarter beginning March 3, 2026, with full retail availability at peakdesign.com and major retailers starting June 2, 2026.

Busy backgrounds can completely distract from an otherwise strong portrait, and most photographers either over-edit or give up too soon. In this Photoshop tutorial for beginner and intermediate photographers, I’ll show you a fast, repeatable way to clean up messy backgrounds using simple tools like Select Subject, Modify, Expand, Delete and Fill, and the Median filter. More importantly, you’ll learn how to turn this process into a custom Photoshop action so you can remove distractions in seconds on future images. This workflow keeps natural shadows and depth intact, avoids that over-smoothed plastic look, and fits seamlessly into a Lightroom to Photoshop editing process. If you’ve ever struggled with cluttered backdrops, uneven texture, or random mess behind your subject, this step-by-step method will help you create cleaner, more professional results without complicated composites or advanced retouching techniques.

Check out more Photoshop Tips & Tricks on my YouTube channel.

The Godox iT32 mini flash looks small, but its modular design completely changes how you use on-camera and off-camera flash. Most speedlights lock you into one setup. This one separates into a magnetic trigger and flash head, letting you move from hot shoe to light stand in seconds. If you’ve ever felt frustrated switching between TTL, manual, or wireless flash, or struggled with clunky speedlights that feel awkward on your camera, this review will clear things up. In this video, I’ll show you exactly how the Godox iT32 works in real-world shooting, on camera, off camera, in TTL, manual, and high-speed sync. I’ll also explain why this design works especially well for Nikon users who often get lens shadow issues with smaller flashes. If you’re stepping into off-camera flash for the first time, or you want a lightweight travel-friendly flash that still integrates with the Godox system, this might be the most flexible option you’ve seen. Let’s break down how it actually performs and who it’s really for.

Check out the full product review here.

If you’re looking for a powerful yet portable studio flash, the Godox AD300Pro II might be exactly what you need, but most photographers barely scratch the surface of what it can actually do. This 300 watt battery-powered strobe sits perfectly between the AD200 and larger units like the AD400 or AD600, giving you serious power without the bulk. And that extra 100 watts over the AD200? It matters more than you think. In this review, I’ll walk you through the full setup, menu system, flash modes including Manual, TTL and Multi, how to activate High Speed Sync, and the one setting that can ruin your burst shooting if you miss it. If you’re not switching to Freeze mode when shooting continuous burst, you’re leaving performance on the table. We’ll also look at modelling light controls, Kelvin adjustments, wireless setup, and how to pair it with the Godox X3 Pro trigger. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to set up the AD300Pro II properly and decide if this is the best portable flash for your photography.

Don’t forget to check out the full written review.

In this Photoshop editing tutorial, I take you behind the scenes of an Ophelia-inspired portrait edit featuring model Skye Medusa, showing exactly how I rebuilt atmosphere when real-world conditions did not cooperate. You will see how to clean up small distractions, remove specular highlights, and realistically add smoke back into a portrait using overlay techniques, blending modes, masking, and Generative Fill in Adobe Photoshop. I walk through capturing practical smoke plates on set with a Telesin mini fogger, then compositing them seamlessly so lighting, texture, and perspective all match. From there, I finish the image using Aperty for fast, natural skin retouching, colour balance, and detail control, followed by a final colour dodge and burn to add depth and focus. This video is ideal for photographers who want to fix on-location issues in post, learn practical smoke compositing, and refine cinematic portrait edits without relying on gimmicks or presets.

Check out these other videos on YouTube

• Learn how to Dodge and Burn
• Check out the Telesin Mini Fogger in action

Grab a special Telesin 15% discount use code JULIEPOWELL including the mini fogger

In this Photoshop tutorial for photographers, I’m going to show you how to add subtle but powerful dodge and burn to black and white images to bring back depth, contrast, and drama after conversion. If you’ve ever turned a colour photo into black and white and felt disappointed by how flat or lifeless it looked, this video is for you. Using a simple, non-destructive dodge and burn method with Curves layers, I’ll walk you through how to shape light, enhance shadows and highlights, and add impact without harsh edits or scary tools. You’ll see how this technique works beautifully alongside black and white presets, how to refine skin tones, add punch to eyes, and control contrast with precision, all while keeping your workflow flexible and beginner-friendly. This step-by-step Photoshop dodge and burn workflow is ideal for portraits, fine art photography, and anyone wanting stronger black and white images without overdoing it.

A compact powerhouse that finally grows up

The Godox AD300Pro II feels like a very deliberate refinement rather than a flashy reinvention, and honestly, that is exactly what most working photographers want. It keeps the small, location-friendly form factor that made the original AD300Pro so popular, but tightens up performance, usability, and consistency in ways that matter when you are actually shooting.

At 300Ws, this flash comfortably sits in that sweet spot between speedlights and the larger AD400 or AD600 units. It is powerful enough to overpower daylight in many situations, yet light and compact enough to throw in a backpack without thinking twice. For portrait shooters, still life photographers, and anyone who spends time on location, it is a very appealing balance.

Real-world performance

In use, the AD300Pro II feels fast and confident. Recycle times are quick, output is consistent, and the colour stability is noticeably solid across the power range. Whether you are shooting wide open outdoors or building layered light in a studio setup, it delivers predictable results, which is something you really start to appreciate after a long day on set.

Images taken on Sony A7RV and Tamron 28-75mm lens, Godox AD300Pro II with reflector and Godox AD200ProII

TTL and HSS work reliably, and switching between systems is seamless if you are already invested in the Godox ecosystem. Pair it with an X-series trigger and it just behaves, no drama, no fiddling. The menu system is quite different to the Godox AD200Pro II, but it doesn’t take long to find your way around.

Freeze mode and burst shooting

This is where a lot of people trip up, including me, so it is worth spelling out clearly. If you want to run burst mode, you must switch the flash mode from Normal to Freeze. Burst simply will not function in Normal mode, even with HSS turn on.

Freeze mode prioritises ultra-short flash durations, which is what allows the AD300Pro II to keep up with rapid firing sequences. It is brilliant for motion work, splashes, hair flips, fabric movement, or anything where timing is critical. Just remember, if burst is not working, it is almost always because the flash is still set to Normal mode. Flip it to Freeze and you are good to go. This only works with relatively short bursts, so remember that.

Modelling light and build

The built-in LED modelling light is genuinely useful, not just a token addition. It is bright enough for pre-visualising light placement and works well for hybrid shooters who occasionally dip into video. It also has the ability to change the colour mode for the modelling light. The body itself feels solid and well thought out, with intuitive controls and a clear screen that is easy to read outdoors.

Battery life is strong for a unit this size, easily covering extended portrait sessions or location shoots without constant battery anxiety.

Great for Product photography (like the Godox iT32 on the Nikon ) or more creative shoots like the lightbulb shoot.

Where it fits best

The AD300Pro II shines for photographers who want flexibility. It is ideal for environmental portraits, creative studio work, still life, and lightweight location kits. I used it with a light tent for product shots too. If you are regularly shooting large groups or competing with brutal midday sun, you may still want to step up to a higher-powered unit. But for most real-world scenarios, 300Ws goes a long way.

Key Specifications

• Power Output: 300Ws
• Flash Modes: TTL, Manual, Multi
• High Speed Sync: Up to 1/8000s
• Freeze Mode: Yes (required for burst shooting)
• Burst Mode: Supported in Freeze mode
• Wireless System: Godox 2.4GHz X system
• Modelling Light: Built-in LED
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium battery
• Mount: Godox mount (Bowens via adapter, not supplied) I found this annoying as I could not use any of my standard softboxes and had to use an umbrella.

Pros

• Excellent power-to-size ratio
• Reliable TTL and HSS performance
• Freeze mode delivers very short flash durations
• Burst mode is genuinely useful once set correctly
• Solid colour consistency
• Compact and travel-friendly

Cons

• Burst mode requires manually switching to Freeze mode
• Godox mount means an adapter is needed for Bowens modifiers, not supplied (my Bowens adaptor for the AD200ProII will not fit the larger AD300ProII
• Not enough power for every full-sun scenario, large studios or groups
• Has a different menu structure to AD200Pro II

See Godox AD300Proii (and AD200Proii) in action during a workshop [about 2minutes in]

Struggling to get accurate skin tones and rich colours in your photos, especially when you’re shooting bold setups like red on red? In this beginner-friendly photography tutorial, I’ll walk you through how white balance works, when to use Auto White Balance, and how to choose presets like Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Tungsten, Flash, or custom Kelvin settings for better results straight out of camera. We’ll jump into Lightroom’s Develop module to compare “As Shot” vs Auto, adjust temperature and tint, and explore how setting your white balance in-camera, even when shooting RAW, can give you a stronger creative starting point and save time in post-processing. If you want more control over colour temperature, improve your editing workflow in Lightroom or Camera Raw, and finally understand Kelvin in simple terms, this video will help you take control of your colour and create images that match your vision.

If you’ve ever used a speedlight or on-camera flash and wondered why your portraits look flat, this beginner-friendly flash photography tutorial will change the way you think about lighting. In this video, I’ll show you how to create dramatic portraits using just one speedlight, whether it’s on-camera or off-camera, and explain why light placement, power, and direction matter more than expensive gear. We’ll explore how to sculpt light for depth and mood, avoid common flash mistakes, understand TTL vs manual flash, and use tools like Set.a.Light 3D to practice studio lighting setups without even stepping into a studio. From Rembrandt lighting and feathering techniques to diffusion, reflectors, and intentional shadow control, this is all about shaping light in camera rather than trying to fix it in post.

Neewer Z3 Flash used in video

The Beauty of F/2.8, in the Palm of Your Hand – TAMRON 35–100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A078), For Sony E-mount and Nikon Z mount full-frame mirrorless cameras

Tamron just announced the launch of the 35–100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A078), a fast-aperture standard zoom lens designed for Sony E-mount and Nikon Z mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens will be available from March 26, 2026.

Building on the success of the acclaimed 35–150mm F/2–2.8 Di III VXD, this new 35–100mm F/2.8 responds directly to photographers seeking a more compact, lightweight option without sacrificing image quality or creative flexibility. By focusing on the most widely used focal lengths for portraits and everyday shooting, the 35–100mm F/2.8 delivers exceptional performance in a remarkably portable form.https://tamron.com.au/

Measuring just 119.2mm in length and weighing 565g (Sony E-mount), this lens fits comfortably in the hand while maintaining a constant F/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range. High-resolution optics combined with smooth, pleasing bokeh make it well suited to portraits, travel, and lifestyle photography. Fast, accurate autofocus is driven by Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor, ensuring reliable subject tracking and precise focus, even when capturing fleeting expressions.

With a close minimum object distance of 0.22m at the wide end, the lens also supports creative close-up work, from tabletop scenes to environmental details. Compatibility with TAMRON Lens Utility allows users to customise functions for both stills and video, adding flexibility to modern hybrid workflows.

Product Features

• Versatile 35–100mm Zoom Range
  Covers essential focal lengths for portraits, travel, and everyday photography.
• Compact and Lightweight Design
  A constant F/2.8 zoom that remains easy to carry and comfortable to use for extended shooting.
• High Resolution with Rich, Natural Bokeh
  Designed to render fine detail and skin texture with clarity, while maintaining smooth background separation.
• Fast, High-Precision Autofocus
  VXD linear motor delivers quick, quiet, and accurate focusing for both stills and video.
• Close-Up Capability
  Minimum object distance of 0.22m at 35mm enables creative indoor and detail-focused shots.
• TAMRON Lens Utility Compatibility
  Customise lens functions to suit personal shooting styles and video needs.
• Refined Ergonomic Design
  Improved exterior texture and smooth control operation for confident handling.
• Unified 67mm Filter Size
  Convenient compatibility with other Tamron lenses using the same filter diameter.
• Built for Real-World Use
  Moisture-resistant construction and fluorine coating help protect the lens in challenging conditions.

Specifications

Model: A078
Focal Length: 35–100mm
Maximum Aperture: F/2.8
Angle of View (Diagonal): 63°26′ – 24°25′ (full-frame)
Optical Construction: 15 elements in 13 groups
Minimum Object Distance: 0.22m (WIDE), 0.65m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:3.3 (WIDE), 1:5.9 (TELE)
Filter Size: Ø67mm
Maximum Diameter: Ø80.6mm

Length: (Length measured from front of lens to mount face)

• 119.2mm (Sony E-mount)
• 121.5mm (Nikon Z mount)

Weight:

• 565g (Sony E-mount)
• 575g (Nikon Z mount)

Aperture Blades: 9 (circular diaphragm), Circular diaphragm maintains a near-circular shape up to two stops down
Minimum Aperture: F22
Standard Accessories: Flower-shaped hood, front cap, rear cap
Mount: Sony E-mount, Nikon Z mount

Specifications, appearance, and functionality are subject to change without notice. This product is developed and manufactured under license agreements with Sony Corporation and Nikon Corporation. For more information and product specifications, please visit the Tamron website.

For Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount Full-Frame Mirrorless.

When a lens promises constant F2.8, full-frame coverage, and a compact design, I’m interested. When it actually delivers on all three, I pay attention.

The new Tamron 35–100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A078) for Sony Corporation E-mount and Nikon Corporation Z-mount mirrorless cameras is designed for photographers who live in that 35–100mm range, especially portrait, event and travel shooters.

I’ve tested both the Sony and Nikon versions, and this lens feels like a thoughtful response to photographers who want professional image quality without carrying a brick all day.

Why a 35–100mm F2.8 Zoom Makes Sense

I get it though, it feels like a weird focal range. Most lenses being with 24-70 or 70-150mm (or similar). But when you think about it, most photographers don’t spend their day at 150mm or 200mm. We move between:

• 35mm for environmental portraits
• 50–70mm for natural perspective
• 85–100mm for flattering compression

This lens focuses on the focal lengths most portrait photographers actually use. Instead of stretching longer, it trims the range and keeps the weight down.

For travel photography, creative portraits, workshops and events, that’s a smart trade-off.

Key Specifications

Model: A078
Focal Length: 35–100mm
Maximum Aperture: F2.8
Minimum Aperture: F22
Optical Construction: 15 elements in 13 groups
Minimum Object Distance:

• 0.22m (wide)
• 0.65m (tele)

Maximum Magnification Ratio:

• 1:3.3 (wide)
• 1:5.9 (tele)

Filter Size: 67mm
Aperture Blades: 9 (circular diaphragm)
Length:

• 119.2mm (Sony E)
• 121.5mm (Nikon Z)

Weight:

• 565g (Sony E)
• 575g (Nikon Z)

Autofocus: VXD linear motor

Size and Weight – Finally, a Manageable F2.8

At just over half a kilo, this is noticeably lighter than many traditional 70–200mm F2.8 lenses.

Mounted on a Sony full-frame body, it feels beautifully balanced. On Nikon Z, it’s fractionally longer and heavier, but in real-world shooting the difference is minimal.

If you shoot long sessions, travel regularly, or teach workshops where you’re constantly moving, this weight reduction matters. Your wrists will thank you. Mine did.

Image Quality – Sharp and Flattering

Wide open at F2.8, sharpness is excellent in the centre and very good toward the edges. Skin texture is rendered cleanly without feeling overly clinical.

What stands out:

• Strong centre sharpness
• Smooth fall-off into background blur
• Pleasant compression at 85–100mm
• Natural, soft bokeh thanks to the 9-blade diaphragm

For portrait photography, this balance of clarity and softness works beautifully.

Autofocus Performance – Fast and Confident

The VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) system delivers quick, accurate autofocus for both stills and video.

During testing:

• Eye AF locked reliably
• Tracking remained consistent
• Focus acquisition was fast and silent

For moving subjects, it keeps up without hunting or hesitation, and probably would be good for candid portraits or events.

Close Focusing – More Versatile Than Expected

The 0.22m minimum object distance at 35mm is genuinely useful. Even for happy snaps in e garden with the dogs, flowers and more, I found it quiet versatile.

You won’t get macro-level magnification, but it’s ideal for:

• Tabletop photography
• Detail shots at events
• Creative close portraits
• Travel detail work

If you like blending portrait and still life in your work, this adds flexibility without needing a second lens.

Build Quality and Handling

Tamron has refined the exterior design, and the lens feels solid without being heavy.

Features include:

• Moisture-resistant construction
• Fluorine coating on the front element
• Unified 67mm filter size
• Smooth zoom and focus rings

That 67mm filter thread is a practical bonus, especially if you already use other Tamron lenses.

Sony vs Nikon Version – Is There a Difference?

I tested both mounts, and performance feels consistent.

• Optical quality is comparable
• Autofocus performance is equally strong
• Handling feels well-matched to each system

The only noticeable differences are the slight size and weight variation. In practice, both versions perform equally well.

Sample images below taken on Nikon Z6iii.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight for a constant F2.8 zoom
• Excellent portrait focal range
• Strong sharpness wide open
• Smooth, flattering bokeh
• Fast and reliable autofocus
• Useful close focusing
• Weather-resistant build
• 67mm unified filter size

Cons

• Stops at 100mm rather than extending to 135mm or 150mm
• No built-in optical stabilisation
• May not suit photographers needing longer telephoto reach

These aren’t flaws, they’re design choices. This lens prioritises portability and practicality over extended telephoto range.

Who Is the Tamron 35–100mm F2.8 For?

This lens is ideal for:

• Portrait photographers
• Event and wedding photographers
• Travel photographers
• Hybrid photo and video creators
• Anyone wanting a lighter alternative to a 70–200mm F2.8

If your work lives between 35mm and 100mm, this range makes a lot of sense.

Mobile Crossbody Multi-Strap, Mobile Crossbody Strap and Mobile Cuff Deliver Secure, Low-Profile Carry for Phones and Compact Cameras

Peak Design introduces three new additions to its Mobile ecosystem: the Mobile Crossbody Multi-Strap, Mobile Crossbody Strap, and Mobile Cuff. Designed for creators, travellers and everyday users alike, the Mobile Strap Family combines secure carry, refined aesthetics and effortless functionality, all built around Peak Design’s innovative Micro Anchor connection system.

Whether worn crossbody or around the wrist, each strap is engineered to keep your phone or compact camera secure, accessible and tangle-free, without adding bulk.

Mobile Crossbody Multi-Strap

The Mobile Crossbody Multi-Strap is a versatile, low-profile strap designed to carry your phone, keys and small essentials securely. Built with Peak Design’s Micro Anchor system, it offers faster, stronger and more intuitive attachment, complete with a built-in swivel to prevent twisting.

A custom-machined and anodized aluminum carabiner holds up to three Micro Anchors and locks shut for added security. The custom-developed rope strikes a careful balance between strength, comfort and stretch, while sleek glass-reinforced nylon hardware enables quick length adjustments.

Key Features:

• Compatible with any Peak Design case, Apple iPhone 17 case and small point-and-shoot cameras, plus third-party cases using the included adapter Mobile Crossbody Multi-Strap
• Secure aluminum carabiner with locking mechanism
• Adjustable length from 90cm to 168cm
• Fair Trade Certified and backed by a lifetime guarantee

MSRP: $59.95 – Available in Black, Ocean and Ibis.

Mobile Crossbody Strap

The Mobile Crossbody Strap delivers a streamlined 2-point carry solution for phones and compact cameras. Designed for all-day wear, it combines minimalist aesthetics with practical security.

Like the Multi-Strap, it features the Micro Anchor system with integrated swivel functionality to prevent twisting. The strap also includes accessory loop hardware, allowing users to convert to single-point carry or stow the strap on their body when the device is detached.

Key Features:

• Works with Peak Design and Apple iPhone 17 cases, plus third-party cases via included adapter Mobile Crossbody Strap
• Adjustable from 88cm to 164cm
• Lightweight, comfortable rope construction
• Fair Trade Certified with lifetime guarantee

MSRP: $49.95 – Available in Black, Ocean and Ibis.

Mobile Cuff

For those who prefer wrist carry, the Mobile Cuff offers simple, durable and low-profile drop protection. Ideal for phones, point-and-shoot cameras or any small device with a strap connection point, the Cuff automatically cinches down on the wrist in the event of an accidental drop.

Constructed from ultra-durable woven rope, the Mobile Cuff incorporates aluminum adjustment and stopper hardware to customise fit and minimum loop size. The Micro Anchor system ensures fast and secure attachment with the same anti-twist swivel design found across the range.

Key Features:

• Compatible with Peak Design cases, Apple iPhone 17 cases and third-party cases via adapter Mobile Cuff
• Automatically self-cinching for drop protection
• Adjustable loop sizing
• Fair Trade Certified and backed by a lifetime guarantee

MSRP: $29.95 – Available in Ibis, Black and Ocean.

Built for Everyday Creativity

The Mobile Strap Family reflects Peak Design’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful design, durability and sustainability. Each product integrates seamlessly into the broader Peak Design Mobile ecosystem, offering users secure, flexible carry options without compromising style or performance.

With quick-connect Micro Anchors, premium materials and Fair Trade Certified manufacturing, these new straps provide practical protection for modern devices while maintaining the clean, refined aesthetic Peak Design is known for.

For full specifications, color and more, please visit the Peak Design Website.

A compact modular flash system that punches above its size

Godox has been quietly shaking up the flash world for years, but the Godox iT32 Flash paired with the Godox X5S & N trigger feels like a genuine rethink of how on-camera and off-camera flash can work together.

Instead of a traditional speedlight bolted to your camera, this is a modular system. The flash and trigger are separate units that magnetically snap together when you want on-camera flash, then separate instantly when you want to work off-camera. No re-pairing, no menus, no fuss. I must confess I had to fire with the flash on the trigger first before it would fire separated.

It’s small, light, and clearly designed for photographers who want flexibility without hauling around a full-sized flash kit.

What Is the Godox iT32 + X5 System?

The iT32 is a compact TTL/M flash that belongs to the Godox X wireless ecosystem. The X5 trigger (X5S for Sony, X5N for Nikon, X5C for Canon, etc.) acts as both a hot-shoe mount and a wireless transmitter.

Magnetically attach the two and you have an on-camera TTL /Manual flash. Detach them and the X5 becomes your trigger while the iT32 runs wirelessly off-camera. It’s a clever, practical design that makes a lot of sense in real-world shooting. I loved I could shoot with it on, then snap off the flash pop on the foot and set it on a shelf or even hold it by hand.

Key Specifications

Godox iT32 Flash

• Guide Number: GN18 (ISO100, metres)
• Power Range: 1/128 – 1/1 in 1/3-stop increments
• Flash Modes: TTL, Manual, Multi
• High Speed Sync: up to 1/8000s (and higher on compatible Sony bodies)
• Flash Exposure Compensation: ±3 EV
• Recycle Time: approx. 1.5 seconds at full power
• Flash Duration: as fast as ~1/30,000s at lower power
• Modelling Light: built-in LED
• Battery: built-in 900mAh lithium-ion
• Approx. 510 full-power flashes per charge
• Charging: USB-C
• Weight: approx. 169g

Godox X5S & X5N Trigger (Sony & Nikon version)

• Wireless System: Godox 2.4GHz X
• Channels: 32 channels, ID 1–99
• Wireless Range:
  • Up to ~80m when attached to iT32 (according to specs, but when attached seems irrelevant?)
  • Around ~20m when used separately
• Battery: built-in rechargeable (USB-C)
• Weight: approx. 23grams

Build Quality & Handling

The first thing you notice is how small and light this setup is. If you’re used to full-size speedlights, the iT32 feels almost toy-like at first, but in a good way. Build quality is solid, with a clean, modern design and no unnecessary bulk.

The magnetic connection between the flash and trigger is strong and reassuring. It snaps into place with confidence and doesn’t feel like it’s going to pop off accidentally. For location shooting, workshops, or fast-paced sessions, this is a big win.

Controls are straightforward. The touchscreen and dial combo make adjustments quick, and the interface is easy to understand even if you’re new to flash. Apart from turning the trigger on and off, there are no dial or settings to change, they are on the flash only.

Performance in Real Use

Despite its compact size, the iT32 performs very well within its intended range. I did find that using a additional diffuser helped a lot. You really can’t get much more than a few metres away from your subject, without losing flash altogether.

TTL is reliable and consistent, particularly for still life, macro, and small product work. High Speed Sync works as expected and is useful for balancing flash with bright ambient light. Manual is self-explanatory and easy to use as well.

Recycle times are quick enough that you’re not waiting around between shots, and battery life is surprisingly good for such a small unit.

That said, this is not a high-power flash. With a GN18 output, you’ll feel the limits if you’re trying to bounce off high ceilings, light large groups, or overpower strong sunlight from a distance. Used close to your subject, or with intentional off-camera placement, it shines. I also found it caused red-eye when photographing my dogs.

As per most of these mini flashes, I have found where they truly shine is when mixed with low ambient light, on TTL with the exposure compensation set to -1, as per sample images taken in late afternoon outside. I was using a 35-100mm lens.

Pros

• Clever modular magnetic design
• The different X5 triggers (Sony, Nikon, Canon etc) are all marked by different colours
• Extremely compact and lightweight
• Full TTL, Manual, Multi and HSS support
• Built-in rechargeable batteries with USB-C charging
• Easy transition between on-camera and off-camera use
• Compatible with the wider Godox X ecosystem
• Affordable entry point into wireless flash
• No shadow on wider lenses for Sony (ie Zeiss 16-35mm wide angle @ 82mm)
• No shadows on wider Nikon Z lens either

Cons

• Lower power than traditional full-size speedlights
• Fixed flash head with no zoom control, although you can tilt the head itself
• X5 trigger is very basic compared to XPro or X3 triggers
• Wireless range drops when trigger and flash are separated
• Requires a separate X5 trigger per camera system

Who Is This Flash For?

The Godox iT32 and X5 system is ideal for:

• Portrait photographers working close to their subjects, on- or off-camera. I do suggest additional diffusion or a mini softbox for portraits.
• Travel and street photographers who value light-weight gear, that are not working with larger distance
• Workshop environments where fast setup matters
• Multi-brand shooters who want one flash across different cameras (you would need to purchase additional triggers)

If you regularly shoot large spaces, bounce flash off tall ceilings, or need maximum output, a bigger speedlight or strobe will still be the better tool. Perhaps the Godox AD100Pro or AD200Pro II or similar.

Sample images

Playing in the studio with some still life, I found the images far more pleasing with extra diffusion. I believe I took these images on AP Mode on my Sony A7RV and TTL mode on the iT32 -1 exposure compensation.

Even in ambient low light, the iT32 does an amazing job, especially on TTL, as per the images below. No extra diffusion was required.

A Note on Nikon

I have been trialling many mini flash on the Nikon Z7iii camera and it’s bulky wider diameter lenses and they all seem to fall flat, due to the flash hitting the edge of the lens and causing unwanted shadows. The Godox iT32 outperformed them all on that one single point. It sits up high enough on the hot shoe to easily reach out over an 82mm lens. Some sample images below with the flash on-camera, taken by my Husband.

Being able to easily take the flash off the camera and put it on a floor, bench or light stand is a winner. Makes the flash so much more versatile. Even on a kitchen bench with light bounced off a metal fridge with the dog. Also avoids red eye

When taking portraits, where possible bounce the flash off a white ceiling, rather than directly at the person, makes a much nicer portrait, with more depth and contrast. Even if it is my horrible old face lol. The tiltable head makes this easy to do. My ceilings are standard 8 foot high.

In this video, I’m going to show beginner photographers how to use LUTs, also known as Lookup Tables, to create cinematic photo edits with confidence, restraint, and intention. Instead of piling on effects or endlessly adjusting sliders, you’ll learn how LUTs work as precise colour grading tools that remap colour and tone relationships to create consistent, film-inspired looks. We’ll cover what LUTs actually are, how they differ from filters and presets, and why they’re so widely used in cinematic colour grading for movies and photography. I’ll walk you through using the built-in LUTs already available in Photoshop and Luminar Neo, showing you how to apply them non-destructively, control their strength, adjust blend modes, and mask them for natural skin tones and believable results. This tutorial focuses on developing good colour judgment rather than buying more presets, helping you understand when a LUT enhances the mood of an image and when it’s gone too far, so your edits support the story you’re telling instead of overpowering it.

Grab your 10% Discount on all Skylum Luminar Products – Code JULIE10

The NEEWER F700 Field Monitor is a high-quality monitor that would excel at video, macro, fashion, studio, and commercial photography, as well as landscape. How useful would it be for night photography?

NEEWER contacted me about reviewing this monitor. I mostly do night photography and do not do the other kinds of photography or video mentioned above, and mentioned this to them. However, they were okay with me reviewing it primarily for night photography. Consequently, this will likely be a very different kind of review than most.

Note: NEEWER sent us the F700 Field Monitor with two NP-F750 batteries to review and keep. However, this is an independent review, and all thoughts about this product are our own.

Pros

• Very bright 2000-nit display, which is highly beneficial for day use outdoors
• Mounts on a camera rig, tripod, or cage with 1/4″ screws and a cold-shoe mount included
• Helps expose and focus accurately, especially beneficial for video applications
• Includes 15 built-in 3D LUTs you can easily toggle to preview different looks straight away
• You can import your own 3D LUT files via an SD card, giving you flexibility to preview custom or camera-specific looks
• Various cables included

Cons

• Relatively light plastic build that might not hold up to rigorous or constant use
• Battery life could be longer when used at or near maximum brightness, even with two batteries, and the monitor slowly drains power when batteries are attached but not in use
  

NEEWER F700 Field Monitor — Technical Specifications

All technical specifications for the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor are from the official NEEWER website.

Specifications

• Model: F700
• Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
• Dot Pitch: 0.0804(H)x0.0804(W)(mm)
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9
• Brightness: 2000 nit ±10% (actual measured brightness)
• Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
• Viewing Angle: >160°H/160°V; 80°/80°(L/R) 80°/80°(U/D)
• Input: HDMI
• Output: HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack
• Power Input/Output:
  5.5mm DC Input Interface: DC- 12-26V (cannot be used as a dummy battery when in low voltage output)
  2.5mm DC Output Interface: DC 8.4V (can connect a dummy battery power cord to the camera via the DC power output interface, significantly extending the camera’s battery life)
• Type C Input Interface: Supports 5V/3A and higher fast chargers or portable chargers (3A output)
• HDMI Input Format Support: 480i, 576i, 480p, 576p, 720p (60/59.94/50/30/29.97/25/24/23.98), 1080i (60/59.94/50), 1080p (60/59.94/50/30/29.97/25/24/24SF/23.98/23.98sF), 3840×2160 (30/25/24Hz), 4096×2160 (25/24Hz)
• Total Power Consumption: ≤22W (without DC 8.4V output)
• Operating Temperature: -20°C-55°C
• Storage Temperature: -30°C-65°C
• Dimensions: 6.9″x4.2″x1″/175x107x25mm
• Weight: 15.7oz/445g (without batteries); 23.1oz/654g (with 1 battery); 30.2oz/857g (with 2 batteries)

Package Contents

F700

• 1 x Monitor
• 1 x Monitor Mount
• 1 x USB to Type C Charging Cable
• 1 x HDMI to HDMI Cable
• 1 x HDMI to Micro HDMI Cable
• 1 x HDMI to Mini HDMI Cable

F700+ 2*NP-F750 Battery

• 1 x Monitor
• 1 x Monitor Mount
• 2 x NP-F750 Battery(4400mAh)
• 2 x USB to Type C Charging Cable
• 1 x HDMI to HDMI Cable
• 1 x HDMI to Micro-HDMI Cable
• 1 x HDMI to Mini-HDMI Cable

I was reviewing this primarily for field use in night photography to see how it would help with focusing. With or without focus peaking, would this 7″ screen make it far easier to nail stars, distant lights, or foreground edges than a tiny camera LCD? Would it be practical to bring into a bag and set up in the dark?

NEEWER F700 Field Monitor — Ergonomics and Build Quality

The ergonomics were about what you might expect since it’s a monitor. The buttons are easy to find and push in normal daylight. The included hot shoe adapter was easy to use. I was able to tilt the monitor up to 180 degrees.

Build Quality

The F700 Field Monitor is an entry-level field monitor, although it does support custom LUTs, which helps separate it from other entry-level monitors near its price point. However, you cannot expect the F700’s build quality to match that of higher-end professional monitors costing several times more—and it doesn’t. It has a plastic feel. Although I was not about to do a Photofocus Bounce and Drop Test, I would not want to drop this from several feet onto a hard floor. However, I would be willing to test it in the field.

NEEWER F700 Field Monitor — In the Field

The first test was to manually focus the camera on a couple of stuffed animals in a dimly lit room. I was able to set up everything with ease and focus on the animals. There was no noticeable lag between the camera and the monitor, and the colors were rendered quite well.

Next, I tested the monitor in dusty Joshua Tree National Park on a moonlit evening. With night photography, it’s not always easy to see what you’re doing on the much smaller camera LCD. Especially since I began wearing glasses for nearsightedness, I’ve had to take them off to see the LCD better. Would the field monitor help me nail focus on stars, distant lights, or foregrounds? Would it make the composition process easier?

In a word, yes. Focusing on virtually anything—stars, foreground subjects, textured rocks, Joshua Trees, etc.—was considerably easier. And I was able to easily see what the camera saw, making composition much easier. I could also see potentially distracting elements on the periphery far more easily. It felt luxurious, as if I were being pampered.

However…

Bright, bright, bright…

The field monitor is bright. For most people, this would be a bonus—you can see everything even in broad daylight, which was certainly the case when testing it around my house.

At night, however, even when dimmed as low as it will go, it’s still bright. And this was during a nearly full moon. On a dark night photographing the Milky Way, this would be distractingly bright.

Most night photographers dim their LCD screens heavily. But even then, this would be too bright for most applications. For night use, there are limited scenarios in which this would work well, which we’ll discuss below.

NEEWER F700 Field Monitor — “useful for night photography and more”

For night use, the best applications would be:

• Indoors at night (abandoned buildings, warehouses, low-light product or car photography)
• Photographing alone
• City night portrait sessions
• Teaching night photography workshops where you want to show camera adjustments, framing, and settings

As mentioned, I felt almost pampered when focusing and composing. It felt like the difference between watching a video on a smartphone and switching to a computer monitor.

It was also easy to set up at night while the camera was on a tripod. The most challenging part was fitting the HDMI cable into the Pentax K-1 with the L-bracket attached. This was more an L-bracket issue than a monitor issue.

Other Uses

Focusing during macro photography would be easier with the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor.

Focusing during macro photography would be easier with the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor.

Focusing during macro photography would be easier with the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor.

Focusing during macro photography would be easier with the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor.

Focusing during macro photography would be easier with the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor.

Focusing during macro photography would be easier with the NEEWER F700 Field Monitor.

A field monitor like this would be extremely useful for macro photography, which I do occasionally. Making minute focal adjustments with a 7″ screen is significantly easier. Combined with the touchscreen, it would streamline macro work immeasurably.

I mentioned indoor low-light product or car photography as well. Although I did not have the opportunity to test it in those contexts, I’ve done both in the past and can easily imagine it helping substantially.

I can also see the monitor being useful for video, fashion photography, portraits, studio work, landscape, or any scenario in which several people need to evaluate images.

At this price point, it would be useful to have one or two of these for any of these scenarios.

Who might benefit from the T1 Plus Basic Set and T-Track options for the Pantour carbon fiber tripod? The way it is smartly designed, quite a few of us. We reviewed both options to see if it might be a fit for you.

Note: Fotopro sent us the Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set and T-Track Pantour carbon fiber tripod to review and keep. However, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts about this product are our own.

Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set Pantour carbon fiber tripod

Fotopro T1 Plus with T-Track Leveling Bowl Pantour carbon fiber tripod

Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set Pantour carbon fiber tripod

Pros

• Sturdy, smooth, solid build.
• You may remove the rubber cap to reveal the 6-claw all-terrain feet.
• Fotopro states that it passed a “Level 8 wind test” on the Beauford Scale.  Level 8 has wind speeds of “approximately 39–46 mph (62–74 km/h).” It also describes this as “twigs and small branches break off trees; generally impedes walking progress; walking into the wind is almost impossible.”
• You may pull out the tightening knob on the side of the ball head to set your own custom clamping level, essentially acting as a friction knob (Fotopro refers to this as “custom damping”). This works extremely well, and keeps the setting.
• The T-Track option offers a built-in leveling base, allowing you to loosen the center lock to level the ball head.
• Panorama Platform Locking Knob: the 360° pan-lock lever allows you to rotate the camera without affecting the vertical angle (tilt) or the main ball adjustment.
• The T-Basic option, which sort of acts like the center column, can be removed easily. The tripod has two 1/4″ expansion holes so you can attach accessories.
• The tripod can apparently be used from in extreme temperatures ranging from -40℃ to 70℃ (-40°F to 158°F.).
• Good quality carrying bag.

Cons

• Removing the quick release plate requires pressing a button on the tighten knob, which takes a little getting used to initially but works effectively. This is a safety feature that is pretty great, and works not only with the included quick release plate but with Arca-Swiss compatible plates and L-brackets as well.

Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set and T-Track Pantour carbon fiber tripod — Technical specifications

All of the technical specifications for the tripod are from the official Fotopro website. To be perfectly clear, this is information for the tripod plus two options, the Basic Set and the T-Track, which is a leveling bowl for video and panoramas.

• Max. Height: 1491MM/58.70 in (with T-Basic)
• Min. Height: 196MM/7.71 in (with T-Basic)
• Max. Height: 1521MM/59.88 (with the T-Track column)
• Min. Height: 226MM/8.89 in (with the T-Track column)
• Sections: 4
• Net weight: 1.94KG/4.27 lbs (with the T-Basic column)
• Net weight: 2.08KG/4.58 lbs (with the T-Track column)
• Dia. of Tube: 32MM/1.25 in
• Max. Load: 20KG/44.09 lbs
• Folded size: 606MM/23.85 in

Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set and T-Track Pantour carbon fiber tripod — Ergonomics and build quality

The ergonomics are generally quite good for everything. There are new features that I needed to get used to initially, but once I did, I thought they were pretty great. I’ll mention a few of these features.

Damping Knob

I love damping, or friction, knobs. I won’t purchase a ball head unless it has one. This determines how much damping, or friction, there is when you loosen the adjustment knob. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want my camera to suddenly become real loose and flop over. 

Fotopro’s damping knob is a great design once you know how it works. Pull out the most inner knob – the ones with the numbers – and turn it. The higher numbers have more friction. Their design allows you to set and forget it. The damping amount won’t change again through normal use. It works beautifully.

Safety Button

Most Arca-Swiss ball heads have a knob where you twist to tighten or loosen the clamp. Here, Fotopro has an extra feature, the Safety Button. You must first loosen the clamp, then press the Safety Button to release the camera. It works quite well.

Panorama Platform Locking Knob

This allows you to turn the camera 360 degrees without having to loosen the ball head. It’s a small lever located in one of the corners of the clamp. This is a fantastic feature to have, especially when used with the T-Track Leveling Bowl option.

Build quality…including Fotopro’s Great Wall wind test!

All of the knobs, levers, locks, and everything else work effectively and feel robust. Nothing wiggles. Everything feels like it was machined well and built solidly.

But there’s more. According to Fotopro, this tripod passed the Level 8 wind test. What’s that, you ask? I’m so glad you asked. Level 8 is part of the Beaufort Wind Scale. This was developed by British Admiral, Sir Francis Beaufort, in 1805 to help sailors estimate winds via visual observations. Everything is measured from a scale of 0-12. 

The Beauford Wind Scale describes Level 8 as this: “Gale. Winds of 39-46 miles per hour. Moderately high waves of greater length; edges of crests begin to break into spindrift. The foam is blown in well-marked streaks along the direction of the wind. Breaks twigs off trees; generally impedes progress.” Um, wow.

The Great Wall of China Test

Ever curious, I reached out to Fotopro, inquiring about how they test this. This was their response in its entirety:

This assessment is based on real-world validation under extreme conditions​ rather than a standardized laboratory wind tunnel test.

The test was conducted in the China Great Wall area, where strong winds are common, especially at higher and more exposed sections—wind speeds of Level 8 (approx. 17.2–20.7 m/s) are completely possible, especially during seasonal transitions and weather changes. Our product and engineering teams conducted field evaluations in such harsh, high-wind environments to assess the tripod’s performance and stability in practical shooting scenarios. While we don’t disclose the exact load and height parameters publicly, the test was designed to simulate demanding outdoor use with typical professional gear (using 70-200mm lens).

Do bear in mind that you could increase this tripod’s capability by using its hook to fasten weights to it. If you do this, especially if experiencing strong winds, I would recommend having the weight resting on the ground and then securely fastening it. This is so the weight doesn’t swing and cause unwanted vibrations.

I did not perform a high-wind test with my camera equipment. While you may be disappointed, you may rest easy knowing that you now have enough information to replicate the test like Fotopro did. Please report back your findings if you do.

 The center column set with T1 Plus basic + T-Bar accessory

otopro T1 Plus Pantour carbon fiber tripod with center column set with T1 Plus basic + T-Bar accessory 

center column set with T1 Plus basic + T-Bar accessory 

Fotopro T1 Plus Pantour carbon fiber tripod with center column set

I usually don’t use a center column. However, four column accessories, designed for different needs, make this versatile tripod even that much more versatile.

The T-Basic accessory, which is a basic center column, is a solidly built, no-nonsense, non-extendable column with a hook. This offers an additional 14″ of height and also offers additional versatility if spreading the tripod legs out to get down very low. The fully-extended height useful for tall 6’1″ (186cm) photographers like me. This weighs 0.24 lbs (0.11kg).

Switching between the T-Basic column, other accessories, or nothing at all is easy and quick. Once you loosen the base knob and press the release button, you can make the column switch and resecure it in a matter of seconds.

The T-Track accessory

Fotopro T-Track Leveling Ball Head

Fotopro T1 Plus with T-Track Leveling Bowl Pantour carbon fiber tripod

The T-Track is designed to provide flat, consistent panning with custom damping in conjunction with the well-designed ball head. Especially welcome, the T-Track has a built-in leveling bowl non-extendable center column connects the tripod base to the dual-head pan/tilt system. Together, they work very well for creating panoramas. Simply level the T-Track bowl with by loosening and tightening the collar, or sleeve. Do the same with the ball head, making sure that the camera is even on both axes, and you are ready to go. 

Fotopro T1 Plus with T-Track Leveling Bowl Pantour carbon fiber tripod

Fotopro T1 Plus with T-Track Leveling Bowl Pantour carbon fiber tripod

Fotopro T1 Plus with T-Track Leveling Bowl Pantour carbon fiber tripod

Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set and T-Track Pantour carbon fiber tripod — In the field

I tested the tripod during a cold evening in Joshua Tree National Park during a nearly full moon. I found the rubber handle especially welcome here, not having to carry a cold tripod. Loosening and tightening the twist-locks of the tripod were easy, thanks in fact to the smooth action and knurled rubber coating of the locks. 

Because I had already adjusted the Damping Knob, loosening the ball head in the field felt perfect, and at no point was my camera in danger of flopping over suddenly while adjusting its position.

If I used accessories that needed a mount, this tripod would nod its (ball) head and say, “How can I help?” It has not one but two different ¼” screw mounts.

T-Track Leveling Bowl in the field

Having used the Basic Set column several times, I was excited to try out the T-Track leveling bowl accessory for some panoramas. I was able to level the T-Track bowl by loosening and tightening the collar or sleeve easily, making minute adjustments to get the bubble level as centered as possible. I did the same for the ball head, which also has a bubble level. After this, I made minute adjustments while looking at the camera’s two leveling axes (the roll axis (side-to-side tilt) and the pitch axis (front-to-back tilt). This worked extremely well, and I was able to get the camera quite level on both axes within a matter of minutes each time.

After that, the ball head allows you to turn the camera without loosening the ball head itself. This extremely useful and well-designed feature is 360° pan-lock lever (often referred to simply as the panoramic lever or independent panning knob) located at the base of the ball head, which allows for smooth 360-degree rotation of the camera without affecting the vertical angle (tilt) or the main ball adjustment. You simply unlock the lever, turn the camera, and lock the lever again. This makes the process of creating panoramas very quick and easy.

Smoooooooth

Every time I made an adjustment on the tripod, whether it was using the leveling bowl, ball head, or adjusting the legs, the tripod felt smooth and well-machined.

Size and weight in the field

The tripod is a little heavier than what I am used to at 4.27 lbs, as my tripod is 2.58 lbs. This was noticeable but not annoying when I was carrying the tripod for about half a mile. But the Fotopro does support approximately 44 pounds. 

It folds down to approximately 24″. This is a bit too large to be regarded as a travel tripod, and it’s not meant to be. It’s going to be a lot more robust and able to handle much heavier loads than a typical travel tripod as well. It was small enough that I could attach it to my photography backpack and walk around at night easily.

Fotopro T1 Plus with Basic Set and T-Track Pantour carbon fiber tripod — “Flexible and robust”

This is an impressive, smooth, well-machined, and extremely flexible carbon fiber tripod that holds up well in many different scenarios. If you are looking for a well-designed, heavy-duty tripod that will do whatever you want just about about wherever you want, have a close look at the Fotopro T1 with one or more of its four options. Excellent.

In this behind-the-scenes photography video, I’m sharing how I use the Telesin Mini Fogger to add atmosphere, depth, and cinematic mood to creative portrait and still life photography. This compact, remote-controlled fog machine has become one of my favourite tools for creating smoke and dry ice effects on set, especially when working in small spaces or with delicate props. I’ll show you how I used it during an Ophelia-inspired portrait shoot with model Skye Medusa, including how to hide the fogger inside vases, behind flowers, and even on water to create soft, moody fog without heat or disruption. If you’re a photographer looking to experiment with fog effects, smoke machines for portraits, creative still life styling, or cinematic photography techniques, this video shows real-world use and results rather than theory.
Behind the scenes camera – SJCam C300 Action Cam

The lovely team at Telesin have provided a 15% discount code for viewers. Use code JULIEPOWELL at checkout to save 15% on the Mini Fogger and other Telesin products.

If you’ve ever wondered how photographers add depth, shape, and intention to their edits without overdoing contrast or exposure, this beginner-friendly tutorial on dodge and burn in Luminar Neo is for you. In this video, I’ll show you exactly what dodge and burn is, why it’s such a powerful editing technique rooted in traditional film darkrooms, and how you can use it simply and confidently in a modern digital workflow. You’ll learn how to selectively lighten and darken areas of your image to draw attention to key features like eyes, sculpt faces and landscapes, reduce distractions, and create a more dimensional, polished result, all without relying on heavy filters or global sliders. Perfect for beginner photographers, this step-by-step walkthrough will help you understand dodge and burn as a subtle control tool that lets you shape light with intention and dramatically improve your photos using Luminar Neo’s built-in tools.

Grab your 10% Discount on all Skylum Luminar Products – Code JULIE10
Luminar Neo
Luminar Mobile

In this Photoshop tutorial for photographers, I show you how to add textures to portraits using blend modes like Multiply, Screen, and Overlay, along with the powerful Blend If sliders for natural, believable results. This step-by-step editing workflow is perfect for fine art portraits, cinematic photography, and moody conceptual edits, helping you add depth, atmosphere, and texture without destroying skin tones. Learn how to blend textures seamlessly into portraits, control contrast, protect highlights, and avoid common mistakes when using texture overlays in Photoshop.

Links

• Bon Appétit Texture Pack
• Light and SFX Overlays
• The Grunge Collection

Clarity, Dehaze and Grain effects in Lightroom and Camera Raw are my go-to tools. Now they are available as adjustment layers in Photoshop.

New adjustment layers

Clarity and Dehaze, and Grain bring powerful non-destructive, maskable, layer-based adjustments directly into Photoshop, making it easier to precisely refine texture, depth, and detail. Let’s take a closer look…

Clarity and Dehaze

Photoshop combines these two effect into a single adjustment layer. That means it’s maskable and works with all of the blending modes. This is powerful. Dehaze cuts through atmospheric haze easily. Clarity enhances a subject’s structure and crispness.

Adding a Clarity and Dehaze adjustment layer cuts through the atmospheric issues caused by humidity and particles in the air.

Grain

The Grain adjustment layer has three sliders — amount, size and roughness. Grain can be added for creative purposes and for making our super resolution digital captures look more like a photo made on film. I’ve found that grain wants to be added after all the other work is finished included sizing to the output dimensions.

These new adjustment layers bring even more flexibility to the world’s best digital image finishing tool, Photoshop. These layers are generally available in the current version.

Reliable 800Ws Power for Demanding Location Shoots

Godox has announced the AD800Pro, a powerful 800Ws battery-powered monolight designed for photographers who need dependable main-light performance on location. Built to handle bright outdoor conditions, fast-paced workflows and color-critical work, the AD800Pro combines high output, precise control and flexible power options in a single, portable system.

Built to Overpower Daylight

With a robust 800Ws output, the AD800Pro delivers confident main-light performance even in harsh sunlight. A high-capacity lithium battery provides up to approximately 300 full-power flashes per charge, while fast recycle times from 0.01 to 1.5 seconds ensure the light keeps up with dynamic shooting environments.

Precision Where It Matters

Power output can be adjusted across a 10-stop range from 1/512 to full power in precise 0.1-stop increments. This level of control makes the AD800Pro equally suited to subtle product and still-life lighting as it is to complex multi-light portrait setups, where fine adjustments can make all the difference.

Pro-Level Flash Modes

The AD800Pro includes a full suite of advanced shooting modes to support professional workflows:

• Freeze Mode delivers ultra-short flash durations down to 1/35,710s (t0.1), ideal for freezing splashes, motion and high-speed action.
• Stable Color-Temperature Mode minimizes color shift across the power range, with typical drift of ≤100K, helping maintain consistent color in demanding shoots.
• Support for High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000s, Multi flash, and first- and second-curtain sync expands creative control for outdoor portraits, motion effects and experimental lighting.

Reliable Wireless Control

Integrated into Godox’s proven 2.4GHz X wireless system, the AD800Pro offers stable long-range triggering and control. One-tap pairing with the X3Pro and X3 transmitters speeds up setup, while compatibility with the full range of Godox X-series triggers ensures seamless integration into existing lighting kits. Wired 3.5mm sync and support for external 433MHz receivers provide additional triggering flexibility on location.

Flexible Power Options

For extended sessions, the AD800Pro adapts to different shooting conditions. An optional AC26 adapter allows direct AC operation, while the optional UC-46 fast charger reduces battery charging time to approximately 1.5 hours, keeping downtime to a minimum.

A Creative Modifier Ecosystem

A native Bowens mount gives photographers instant access to a wide range of professional modifiers, including softboxes, beauty dishes, grids and projection attachments. For greater flexibility, the optional H600P extension head with a 2-metre cable enables lightweight handheld use or easier boom mounting, ideal for fast-moving location work.

Smart Design, Clear Feedback

The AD800Pro features a high-resolution color display, a 40W bi-color modeling lamp for accurate previewing, and 16 color-coded group indicators for quick visual confirmation when working with multiple lights.

Key Features at a Glance

• 800Ws battery-powered monolight for outdoor and location photography
• Up to 300 full-power flashes per charge
• Fast recycle time: 0.01–1.5 seconds
• 10-stop power control (1/512–1/1) with 0.1-stop precision
• Freeze Mode with flash durations down to 1/35,710s (t0.1)
• Stable color-temperature performance (≤100K drift)
• 40W bi-color modeling lamp (2800K–6000K)
• Built-in Godox 2.4GHz X wireless system with one-tap pairing
• Native Bowens mount and extensive modifier compatibility

The Godox AD800Pro is a powerful, versatile lighting solution built for professionals who need confidence, consistency and control on location. With its combination of high output, advanced modes and system flexibility, it is well suited to portrait, commercial, product and action photography alike.

For full specifications and additional details, please refer to the Godox website.

A fast, field-ready tripod built for landscape and hybrid shooters

Let’s clear this up right from the start.
The SmallRig x Potato Jet TRIBEX SE is not a studio portrait, product or still life tripod. It isn’t trying to be, and judging it by those standards would miss the point entirely. Of course, you could use it for these purposes, but not WHO its was designed for.

Please Note: SmallRig sent this tripod to me for review, but all thoughts on this product are my own.

This tripod is built for landscape photographers and hybrid shooters working on location, people dealing with changing light, uneven ground, wind, weather and the need to move quickly. It prioritises speed, stability and consistency in the field, not micro-adjustments in a controlled studio.

Once you look at it through that lens, the design choices make a lot more sense. But, it could still use some tweaks. The base is great, but the head seems to leave many photographers wanting.

What it’s designed to do

The TRIBEX SE is aimed squarely at outdoor, location-based work, especially for photographers who also shoot video clips alongside stills.

Think:

• Landscapes with slow, controlled pans
• Environmental video clips
• Travel and documentary work
• Hybrid shooters who want one tripod that super quick setup

If your work involves careful millimetre-by-millimetre framing, or long still life sessions, this possibly isn’t your tool. If you’re chasing light and conditions, and super quick setup, it just might be.

The standout feature: X-Clutch hydraulic deployment

The headline feature is the X-Clutch Hydraulic Technology, which allows you to deploy and level the tripod with a single squeeze. And it takes a little bit of getting used to, but after a few tries, it works great. It’s easy to setup and pack down. Hold the tripod with one hand, then with the other drop the Legs. Height is set. You’re ready to shoot. So you still need two hands, but it is much quicker and easier than a standard tripod, which can offer require more than two hands at times.

Out in the landscape, where light changes fast and conditions are rarely perfect, this is a genuine advantage. It removes the fiddly setup phase and lets you focus on composition and timing instead of wrestling leg locks.

SmallRig rates this system for over 20,000 deployment cycles, so it’s clearly designed to be used hard, not babied.

Integrated hydraulic fluid head

The TRIBEX SE uses an integrated hydraulic fluid head with:

• 6kg head load capacity
• 4kg fixed counterbalance
• Fixed pan and tilt damping

There’s no fine-tuning here, and that’s intentional. The movement is consistent, smooth and predictable, which might work for landscape pans, environmental footage and general field video. But, to be honest, this is where I feel the unit fails. You can pan but not tilt. This might suit videographers, but landscape photographers will probably find it limiting and frustrating.

Build quality and portability

Made from aluminium alloy, the tripod legs are rated to 15kg, giving plenty of stability headroom even if your camera setup is modest.

At 3.7kg, it’s not ultra-light, but the trade-off is confidence in wind and uneven terrain. Folded down to 72cm, it’s compact enough for travel and location work without becoming a burden. Compared to light-weight travel tripods, it feels pretty heavy, but in windy conditions, it was a bonus. Would I want to carry over long distances? Not sure on that either.

Specifications

• Material: Aluminium Alloy
• Tripod Load Capacity: 15kg
• Head Load Capacity: 6kg
• Counterbalance: 4kg fixed
• Working Height: 23.0 – 166.0cm
• Folded Length: 72cm
• Net Weight: 3.7kg
• Package Weight: 5.4kg
• Warranty: 4 years

Features at a glance

• X-Clutch hydraulic one-squeeze leg deployment
• The integrated hydraulic fluid head can be easily swapped out for an alternative head
• Side-ways pan (video mode) and tilt damping (fixed) for consistent movement with the supplied head
• Compact folded size for travel
• Designed for fast-paced outdoor shooting
• Backed by a long 4-year warranty

Pros

• Exceptionally fast setup, ideal for changing light (but it does take a few tries to get used to it)
• Very stable for outdoor and landscape use, even in windy conditions
• Simple, predictable operation
• Strong warranty
• The integrated head can be swapped out
• Rubber feet easily removed and replaced with spiked feet if required

Cons

• Not really suitable for studio portrait, product or still life work (with the supplied head), although it could do both
• Fixed damping and counterbalance limit fine control
• Heavier than minimalist or travel tripods
• No articulated arm (although many tripods do not have this feature either, but worth noting)

Sample Images taken on Nikon Z6iii and ND Filter, SOOC. Crisp, sharp and no camera shake evident even on long exposures in windy, gusty conditions. These images were 30 seconds.

What’s included

• The Tribex SE Tripod
• Integrated hydraulic fluid head & Panning Arm
• Carry Bag
• Allen Key
• Mounting Plate

Final thoughts

Know what you shoot, and this tripod will either feel perfect or not, keeping in mind you can easily swap the head out for something more user-friendly.

Check out this video to see it in action…

Explore creative colour shifts in still life photography using Nik Collection’s Color Efex Pro. In this video, I show how to use colour grading, film-inspired filters, and local contrast tools to create dramatic, moody still life images with intention and control.

Model – David Kennedy

Grab your 15% Discount on all DxO Products (new customers only) Code – JuliePowell

In this beginner-friendly editing comparison, I walk photographers through one of the most common frustrations: removing unwanted people and distractions from photos, without needing to touch Photoshop. Using a real-world example from a busy cherry-picking shoot with Nicola Paige, I compare how the latest Adobe Lightroom Classic handles object and people removal against Luminar Neo, DxO PhotoLab, and Affinity Photo. Aimed especially at newer photographers and anyone who dislikes complex Photoshop workflows, this video breaks down speed, accuracy, and real results when cleaning up busy backgrounds, photobombers, and everyday distractions. You’ll see clear before-and-after comparisons, honest pros and cons of each program, and why Lightroom’s Remove tool has become one of the most powerful all-in-one solutions for fast, clean edits. If you’re weighing up software options, concerned about subscription pricing, or just want the easiest way to tidy up your images, this practical comparison will help you decide what editing tool actually gets the job done.

Grab your 15% Discount on all DxO Products (new customers only) Code – JuliePowell

What I Loved in the Studio, and What Caught Me Out on the Coast

After spending time with the K&F CONCEPT Ultra-Low Reflection Variable ND Filter in the studio, I was genuinely impressed. Long exposures behaved beautifully, reflections were well controlled, and image quality held up exactly as promised.

So naturally, it came with me on holiday. Coastal light, big skies, moving water… the perfect playground for a variable ND, right?

Well. Mostly.

When Reality Hits, Literally Full Sun

Out on the coast, shooting in harsh midday light, I started noticing something I hadn’t seen in the studio at all. At higher ND strengths, especially when working wider, parts of the frame would darken unevenly. In some situations, an unfamiliar “dark cross” or X-pattern started creeping in across the sky.

At first, I assumed something was wrong. A bad copy? A coating issue? User error?

Turns out, it was none of those.

The Important Bit Most of Us Learn the Hard Way

This isn’t a fault with this filter, or with K&F CONCEPT specifically. Apparently, it’s a known physical limitation of variable ND filters, apparently ALL variable ND Filters.

Variable NDs work by stacking two polarising filters and rotating them against each other. At stronger density settings, especially in bright sunlight and with wide or ultra-wide lenses, light enters the filter from multiple angles. Those angles don’t play nicely together, and you end up with uneven polarisation across the frame, which shows up as that dreaded X-pattern.

In the studio, with controlled light and longer focal lengths, this never showed up. Outside, with open skies and brutal contrast, it absolutely did.

Lesson learned.

What Helped (and What Didn’t)

Once I understood what was happening, I could work around it fairly easily.

Things that helped:

• Keeping the ND strength just below the maximum range
• Avoiding ultra-wide focal lengths when stacking heavy ND
• Rotating the filter slowly to find the most even position
• Being more selective about when a variable ND was actually the right tool

Things that didn’t:

• Pushing it to the absolute ND400 end in full sun
• Shooting wide seascapes with big skies and expecting perfect uniformity

This is not unique to this filter. You’ll see the same behaviour with most variable NDs, regardless of brand, once you push them hard enough.

Variable ND vs Fixed ND, Choose Your Weapon

This shoot reminded me why many landscape photographers still swear by fixed ND filters for coastal and seascape work. Fixed NDs don’t rely on polarisation stacking, so they deliver far more consistent exposure across the frame, especially in skies and water.

That doesn’t mean the variable ND suddenly becomes useless. Far from it.

For:

• Portraits outdoors
• Video work where exposure needs quick adjustment
• Controlled compositions without massive skies
• Travel and lightweight kits

A variable ND is still incredibly practical.

For:

• Bright midday seascapes
• Ultra-wide landscapes
• Critical long exposures with clean skies

A fixed ND will usually win. I really like the Magnetic Filter kits for this reason

The below images are SOOC (Fixed ND Filter images courtesy of Roy Powell)

Final Thoughts

I’m still glad I took the K&F CONCEPT Variable ND Filter with me. It performed exactly as physics allows it to perform, which is an important distinction. The issue wasn’t the filter; it was my expectations of what a variable ND can realistically do in extreme outdoor conditions.

If anything, this shoot was a good reminder that no single filter does everything perfectly. Knowing the strengths and limitations of your tools matters just as much as owning them.

And yes, next coastal trip, a fixed ND will be in the bag as well. Consider this experience-earned wisdom, with a side of salty sea air.

High ISO noise can creep into even the best portrait sessions, especially when you’re shooting in dark interiors, low light locations, or pushing your camera beyond its comfort zone, and in this video I break down exactly how to deal with it.

Using a real portrait shot at ISO 6400, I compare noise reduction results across Adobe Lightroom Classic, Luminar Neo, DxO PureRAW, Topaz DeNoise AI, and Nik Collection to see which tools actually deliver clean, natural-looking results without destroying skin texture.

Aimed at photographers struggling with grainy portraits, crunchy details, and plasticky skin, this comparison walks through real-world pros and cons, zoomed-in detail checks, and side-by-side results so you can decide what noise reduction software is worth your time and money.

If you regularly shoot portraits, events, or low-light scenes and want cleaner images without over-processing, this video will help you choose the best denoise workflow for your photography.

How to setup and install the Huion Keydial Remote to use with a Windows PC and my Lamvas Pro 16 Tablet. I run through everything from start to finish. Connecting to your PC via USB (can use Bluetooth) and then download and use the software and how to setup all the dials and buttons.

• Huion Keydial Remote
• Huion Kamvas 16 Pro Tablet
• Hazel’s Christmas Gift – Digital Art YouTube

The first thing you notice about the Neewer Z3 Flash is its sheer size and weight. There’s no easing into it. At just over 600g with the battery, this is a chunky speedlite, and for someone like me with cranky hands, it’s not my favourite thing to have sitting on top of a camera for long periods. Short stints are fine, but extended handheld shooting definitely had me feeling it.

Please note: That Neewer sent this Z3 flash for review, all thoughts are my own.

That said, once I got past the physical heft, the Z3 won me back with how easy it was to actually use. I ran it in TTL during a location shoot in natural light and it behaved beautifully. I was working in open shade and just needed a bit of extra oomph to lift the subject. The Z3 delivered consistent, reliable light without fussing or second-guessing me. TTL exposure was solid, recycle times were quick, and it never felt like it was struggling.

Power-wise, this thing is closer to a compact strobe than a traditional speedlite. At 100Ws, it has plenty in reserve, which makes it particularly handy outdoors or when you want to overpower ambient light a little without dragging full studio gear along. The touchscreen is bright, responsive, and genuinely intuitive, which is a nice change from menu-diving with tiny buttons while a client waits.

The built-in 2.4G Q system is also a big plus if you’re already in the Neewer ecosystem. Used off-camera, the weight becomes far less of an issue, and that’s honestly where I think this flash makes the most sense.

In use images thanks to Lisa Lewis

Real-World Use in Natural Light

I put the Z3 to work on a location shoot in natural light, mainly to lift my subject in open shade. Using TTL, exposure was consistent and dependable, but it’s worth noting this flash also offers Manual, Multi, and High Speed Sync up to 1/8000s, so you’re not locked into automation if you prefer full control or need to freeze motion.

Recycle times were fast, output was consistent, and it kept up without hesitation. The large colour touchscreen is a standout, bright, responsive, and genuinely easy to adjust on the fly and easy to read in sunlight.

Modes, Modelling Lamps & Control

The Z3 covers all the bases when it comes to shooting modes:

• TTL for fast-paced or changing light
• Manual for precise, repeatable setups
• Multi (stroboscopic) for creative motion effects
• High Speed Sync for shooting wide open or controlling ambient light

It also features dual LED modelling lamps, which is a nice bonus. They’re not designed to replace continuous lights, but they’re genuinely useful for previewing light direction, catchlights, and shadow placement before firing the flash.

An optical slave mode is also built in, making it easy to trigger the Z3 alongside other flashes without relying solely on radio triggers. Add in burst mode, capable of firing up to 70–100 flashes at full power, and you’ve got a flash that’s happy to work hard when needed.

Off-Camera Power & Wireless Options

Off-camera is where the Z3 really makes sense. It works with Neewer Q system triggers and can also be used with Godox triggers, which makes integrating it into an existing kit refreshingly painless. (Note, it may need to be updated to the latest software; check the website).

Please note: You do need to go into the menu and turn the RX setting on, so that it works as a receiver with the Q trigger. But once turned on it works like a dream.

It also pairs beautifully with the Neewer Q6 Strobe. Using the Q6 as a key light and the Z3 as a hair or rim light is a very practical setup. The power balance feels right.

Once the Z3 is off the camera and on a stand, its weight stops being a drawback and starts to feel like part of its solid, professional build. Even using the little foot stand on a desk for product shoots, works really well.

Modifiers & Accessories (optional extras)

This flash might benefit greatly from the right accessories:

• A light stand holder is highly recommended for off-camera use
• Magnetic diffuser (optional extra) is far easier to live with and worth upgrading to. The included diffuser is clip-on, not magnetic. It works, but it’s a little fiddly to remove, especially if your fingers aren’t fans of tiny clips
• Magnetic grids and gels (optional extras) add excellent creative control for rim lights, colour accents, and background effects

With a stand and magnetic modifiers attached, the Z3 would become far more comfortable and enjoyable to work with, I’m sure.

Pros

• Powerful 100Ws output, closer to a compact strobe than a speedlite
• TTL, Manual, Multi, and High Speed Sync support
• Dual LED modelling lamps for lighting preview
• Fast recycle time around 1.7 seconds
• Large, intuitive colour touchscreen (even outdoors)
• Optical slave and burst mode included
• Works with Neewer Q triggers and Godox triggers
• Pairs well with Neewer Q6 as a hair or rim light
• Strong battery life with up to 500 full-power flashes
• Intuitive and easy to use

Cons

• Heavy and bulky for extended on-camera use
• Can be uncomfortable for photographers with hand or wrist issues
• Included diffuser is clip-on rather than magnetic
• Best accessories are optional extras
• Q system and X system can’t be used simultaneously

Specifications

Model: Z3
Type: Speedlite Flash
Power: 100Ws
Flash Output: 1/256–1/1 (0.1EV steps)
Flash Duration: 1/556–1/13500s
Recycle Time: Approx. 1.7s
Colour Temperature: 6000K ±200K
Sync Modes: HSS (1/8000s), Front & Rear Curtain
Modes: TTL, Manual, Multi
Battery: 3000mAh Lithium
Full Power Flashes: Up to 530
Burst Performance: 70–100 flashes at full power
Wireless: 2.4G Q system, Master/Slave, Optical Slave
Controls: Buttons + 2.8″ colour touchscreen
Mount: Hot shoe
Dimensions: 73 × 78 × 211mm
Weight: 629g (with battery)
Modelling Lamps: Dual LED, 3300K ±200K, 10 brightness levels

What’s in the Box

• Neewer Z3 Flash (Sony)
• 3000mAh Lithium Battery
• Clip-on Diffuser
• USB-C Charging Cable
• Mini Stand
• Storage Bag
• User Manual

Check out the video over on YouTube for a more in-depth rundown and in-use review – Introducing the Neewer Z3