Best gaming		Optoma UHD35x		SEE IT	A fast refresh rate makes this ideal for gaming.
Best portable		Anker Nebula Apollo		SEE IT	A powerful yet tiny projector for when you’re on the go.
Best budget		VANKYO Leisure 3		SEE IT	It offers built-in speakers at a very affordable price.

Sometimes, you just want to see the big picture, and that’s exactly what projectors allow you to do. By taking in data from a connected device, projectors use light and lenses to display an image that can be more than double the size of a big-screen TV with a picture that is just as vivid.  Whether you’re creating the perfect home cinema, building a better boardroom, or hoping to enjoy a movie night under the stars, we’ll help you find the best projector. 

• Best home-theater: Epson 5050UB
• Best gaming: Optoma UHD35x
• Best office: ViewSonic PA503S
• Best portable: Anker Nebula Apollo
• Best outdoor: BenQ GS50
• Best budget: VANKYO Leisure 3

How we chose the best projectors

When selecting the projectors included in this guide, we aimed to choose options suitable for a range of situations and use cases. From home theater to office setups and even outdoor movie night devices, we looked for projectors that would fit the needs of everyone. We looked at a range of features and specs, including brightness, contrast, ratio, refresh rate, resolution, projector type, throw distance, and more.

The best projectors: Reviews & recommendations

With their ability to display big pictures, projectors can turn your living room into a cinema or your office’s conference room into a lecture hall. Here are the options, whether you’re in the market for a home-theater model, a gaming projector, or a portable option. 

Best home-theater: Epson 5050UB

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Up to 4096 x 2160
• Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
• Brightness: 2600 Lumens (color and white)
• Projection size: 50 – 300 inches
• Built-in speaker: No
• Dimensions: 20.5 x 7.6 x 17.7 inches
• Weight: 24.7 pounds

Pros

• Superb picture quality
• Excellent contrast ratio
• Lots of lens shift and zoom options
• Supports HDR

Cons

• Bulky and heavy
• Pricey

The Epson 5050UB offers 2,600 lumens for color and white brightness and a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. And with its 10-bit HDR processor and 12-bit digital imaging processor, it is the best home-theater projector, delivering cinema-quality picture to your living room. The motorized lens provides powered focus, 2.1x zoom, and both horizontal and vertical lens shift. You’ll be able to get the picture just right now matter where or what you are watching.  

The 4K resolution is vivid thanks to the pixel-shift processor that controls three HD LCD chips, taking in millions of pixels. That means you’ll see all the details you expect to see—and some that the actors would prefer you not be able to see. With a variety of ports, this pick can connect to many devices, ranging from a laptop and smartphone to a Roku and Blu-ray player. Retailing at about $3,000, this powerful home theater option is pricey, but you may never have to pay for a movie ticket again. 

Best gaming: Optoma UHD35x

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Up to 3840 x 2160
• Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
• Brightness: 3600 Lumens
• Projection size: 33 – 300 inches
• Built-in speaker: Yes
• Dimensions: 12.4 x 4.7 x 10.6 inches
• Weight: 8.77 pounds

Pros

• Bright enough to use in the daytime
• Gaming-specific mode offers smooth playback
• Excellent picture quality
• Very quiet 

Cons

• Limited adjustment features

The Optoma UHD35x offers a super-low input lag of 4.2ms at 1080p and a high refresh rate of 240Hz. It can optimize your gaming with a silky-smooth feed that won’t skip a beat, even during heart-pumping action sequences. The DLP projector also excels as a home-theater projector, delivering 4K resolution that pops with 8.3 million screen pixels—four times the detail of full HD. 

The 3,600 lumens of brightness and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio create superb color contrast. It’s bright enough to use even in well-lit rooms or during the day. The best gaming option is also HDR-, HLG-, and full 3D-compatible, and it features dual HDMI ports so that you can connect your console and your laptop simultaneously.

Best office: ViewSonic PA503S

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Up to 1920 x 1200
• Contrast ratio: 22,000:1
• Brightness: 3600 Lumens
• Projection size: 30 – 300 inches
• Built-in speaker: Yes
• Dimensions: 11.6 x 4.3 x 8.6 inches
• Weight: 4.89 pounds

Pros

• Reasonably priced
• Easily viewable in bright rooms
• Long-lasting lamp
• Preset modes make setup easy

Cons

• Lower resolution doesn’t offer much detail
• Contrast ratio is lacking

Even in a bright conference room, your colleagues or clients should have no trouble viewing your presentation. This office projector features 3,800 lumens of brightness and a 22,000:1 contrast ratio. It offers built-in speakers, so you don’t have to fuss with something extra during a presentation. And there is a Quick Power Off option which allows you to put it away immediately instead of waiting for the fans to stop spinning. 

The contrast ratio may be low, but this ViewSonic is designed to be energy-efficient. The lamp can last up to 15,000 hours thanks, in part, to a SuperEco mode that dims any projected image by 70 percent when the device hasn’t received an input signal for 20 minutes. That’s ideal in an office setting, where a moment of neglect after a meeting could result in hours—or even an entire weekend—of wasted energy. The ViewSonic also offers five viewing modes, including presentation, photo, and movie modes, and it’s compatible with Mac and Windows computers, as well as Google Chromecast.

Best portable projector: Anker Nebula Apollo

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Up to 854×480
• Contrast ratio: 400:1
• Brightness: 200 ANSI lumen
• Projection size: 40 – 100 inches
• Built-in speaker: Yes
• Dimensions: 2.56 x 2.56 x 5.16 inches 
• Weight: 1.65 pounds

Pros

• App connectivity turns your phone into a remote
• Up to 4 hours of battery life
• Compact and easily portable
• Lots of connectivity options

Cons

• Picture quality is a little lacking

The best portable projector gives you the power to put on a show wherever you go, and Anker’s Nebula Apollo does exactly that. The wireless model with 200 lumens of brightness can stream up to four hours of 854×480 resolution video on a 100-inch picture. That’s perfect for an outdoor movie night or for watching the game under the moonlight. 

The tripod-mountable DLP device also features a 6W speaker, taking care of the audio as well as the visuals. It can even function as a Bluetooth speaker if you just want music with you on the go. And it’s designed to be user-friendly, with a touch-panel control on top and a downloadable app that lets you direct the action from your smartphone.

Best outdoor: BenQ GS50 

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Up to 3840 x 2160
• Contrast ratio: 100,000:1
• Brightness: 500 Lumens
• Projection size: 80 – 100 inches
• Built-in speaker: Yes
• Dimensions: 7.3 x 6.1 x 5.7 inches
• Weight: 5.1 pounds

Pros

• Rugged build makes it ideal for outdoor use
• Attractive styling
• Good picture quality 
• Impressive speaker quality

Cons

• A bit pricey

Outdoor movie nights are a blast, but you don’t want to risk your expensive projector getting rained on or bumped to the ground. The BenQ GS50 offers a solution thanks to the robust build quality. It is splashproof and drop proof to 2.3 feet. And though it doesn’t add anything to functionality, it just looks cool. 

This BenQ projector offers lots of unique features that make it extra ideal for outdoor use. The 20W sound system offers plenty of volume to be easily heard outside. The ambient light sensor automatically adjusts brightness and contrast to compensate for shifting light. And it provides 150 minutes of battery life for video use. Additionally, the GS50 is packed with family-friendly features, such as the Eye-Protection Sensor that temporarily shuts the projector down if a child gets within 11.8 inches. 

Best budget: VANKYO Leisure 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: Up to 1920 x 1080
• Contrast ratio: 5000:1 
• Brightness: 2400 Lumens
• Projection size: 32 – 200 inches
• Built-in speaker: Yes
• Dimensions: 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches
• Weight: 2.1 pounds

Pros

• Very affordable
• Comes with a carrying case
• Quiet fans don’t compete with the speaker
• Supports HDMI, VGA, USB, and microSD or SD cards

Cons

• No Wi-Fi connectivity

If you’re looking for an affordable, compact projector, the Vankyo Leisure 3 is one of the best available. It comes with a carrying case, and with its compact size, you can easily bring it with you when traveling or visiting a friend. It also features a built-in speaker, so you don’t need to worry about bringing something separate for sound. 

The Leisure 3 offers a resolution of up to 1920 x 1080, which is excellent considering the price. The picture quality won’t be the same as more expensive models, but it can project up to 200 inches for immersive movie nights. And it supports a range of connection types and devices, adding flexibility. 

What to consider when shopping for the best projectors

Gaming projectors can be different from home-theater models, which can be different from office projectors, which can be different from portable projectors. Light sources, processors, lenses and pixels all factor in—and can vary from one option to the next. But sorting through all of it can leave your brain feeling understandably fuzzy. Here’s what you need to know to find the best projector for clear and stunning images, no matter where you want to view them.

How big of a picture are you hoping to display?

The big advantage of a projector is that it can give you a bigger picture than a TV for a smaller price. But the size of that picture is not as simple as buying a 60-inch-screen TV and getting a 60-inch picture. The dimensions of the image you get from a projector are determined by the throw ratio. The throw ratio is the width of the picture you’ll see when you mount or sit the device a set distance from the screen. Generally speaking, the farther away you’re able to set the projector from the screen, the bigger the image will be. For instance, a ratio of 1.5:1 would produce a 5-foot-wide image when the projector was 7.5 feet from the screen (5×1.5).

To produce a 10-foot-wide picture with the same projector, you’d need to place the device 15 feet from the screen (10 x 1.5). So if you’re hoping for a big picture, but you’re planning to put it in a small room, you should look for a short-throw projector that is capable of producing a larger image at closer distances. You can also find models with zoom lenses that allow you to change the image size without relocating the projector.

Will you be using your projector in a well-lit room?

If you’re planning to set up your projector in a room with a lot of ambient light, you’d be wise to pay extra attention to brightness. The first step might be deciding whether you’re looking for a digital light processing (DLP) or a liquid crystal display (LCD) projector. LCD tends to produce a brighter picture in brighter rooms, but DLP excels at creating a smoother picture with higher color contrast.

Next, consider the type of light source in your projector. Standard lamps are cheaper and brighter than LED lamps, but LED lamps last more than four times as long and provide better color control. Lasers, meanwhile, never need to be replaced, offer the brightest output, and offer better color contrast and a wider color range than standard lamps. Of course, laser projectors tend to cost more than other projectors.

How do you know how bright of a picture your projector will produce as a result of all this? The light output for color brightness and white brightness is measured in lumens. But brighter isn’t always better. If you’re in the market for a home-theater projector or a gaming projector that you’ll mount in a room where you’ll have full control over the lights, you should prize color contrast over brightness for a crisper picture that doesn’t wash out as easily. 

The contrast ratio can help you find the right balance, measuring the difference between the lightest and darkest spots on the image. A projector with a high-contrast ratio produces images with more depth and clarity, while a lower contrast ratio works better at the office, where the projector may be used in a bright conference room, with ambient light dulling the picture.

Looking for clarity?

If you’re looking for a sharp, clear image, you’ll want to prioritize resolution. Resolution measures the number of pixels a projector is capable of showing in an image. The higher the resolution, the closer you can sit without the picture blurring. Projectors offer resolutions that range from 480p up to 4K. 

To ensure you’re getting the clearest picture, make sure the device can support the resolution of the video source you’re linking it to. Most feature multiple input options, including USB, HDMI, and VGA. Also, look for a projector with the right aspect ratio for the kind of display you want. A 16×9 ratio gives you a wider screen (typically better for home movies), while a 4×3 ratio is closer to a square (typically better for office presentations).  

Does your high-octane gaming demand low lag time?

When you’re about to beat the boss to move onto the next level, or your team is racing up the court for a buzzer-beater, you can’t have a choppy picture. This is where the DLP versus LCD displays come back into play. DLP is better equipped to support a smooth picture in fast action, while LCD provides a more vivid depiction of graphs, data, and 3D pictures. Liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) displays are available in more expensive projectors, offering the best of both worlds, with bright images, smooth scenes, and excellent color control.

FAQs

The final word on shopping for the best projectors

• Best home-theater: Epson 5050UB
• Best gaming: Optoma UHD35x
• Best office: ViewSonic PA503S
• Best portable: Anker Nebula Apollo
• Best outdoor: BenQ GS50
• Best budget: VANKYO Leisure 3

Projectors can give you a big picture that’s as stunning as any high-definition TV. But finding the best projector for you comes down to knowing where you’re going to use it and what you’re going to use it for. Do you need a gaming model with super-fast processing or a portable pick that lets you take the show on the road? Before you’ve attached it to your ceiling, make sure you’ve truly found the right fit. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

Related: Keep an eye on your home with the best home security cameras. 

The post The best projectors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for photographers		Nikon Fieldscope ED50 Angled		SEE IT	Attaches to your DSLR with a 50mm lens that helps you focus on every color.
Best for stargazers		Celestron Regal M2 100ED		SEE IT	A 100mm lens delivers vivid images and the 20x minimum magnification brings the night sky to your backyard.
Best budget		Bushnell Ultra Compact Spotting Scope		SEE IT	This affordable option provides a high-quality 50mm lens and 12x to 36x zooming.

While binoculars tend to top out at a magnification power of about 10 times the size of an object, spotting scopes expand that to more than 60 times the size. That means if you need to see across the length of several football fields—instead of just seeing the action on the field from the upper deck—you’re in the market for a spotting scope. The best spotting scopes, like telescopes, can be used for a variety of purposes. Photographers add them to their camera gear to capture close-up images of things that are far away in a process known as digiscoping. Hunters and bird watchers rely on scopes to track wildlife that’s far away, while stargazers use them to view distant planets. No matter your intended use, you can find the best spotting scope to meet your needs. You just have to know where to look.   

• Best for photographers: Nikon Fieldscope ED50 Angled
• Best for hunting: Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E
• Best for bird watchers: Maven S.1A Spotting Scope
• Best for stargazers: Celestron Regal M2 100ED
• Best budget: Bushnell Ultra Compact Spotting Scope

The best spotting scopes: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you want to take pictures or save money, you can find a scope to meet your needs. We’ve set our sights on the following brands and products as the best spotting scopes available to serve a variety of long-range viewing purposes.

Best for photographers: Nikon Fieldscope ED50 

SEE IT

If you want the powerful zoom of digiscoping, having the best spotting scope is a necessary piece of photography equipment. This Nikon Fieldscope attaches to your DSLR, letting you capture images your telephoto lens can’t. The Fieldscope features a 50mm lens made with extra-low dispersion glass designed to limit chromatic aberration and focus on every color. You can also attach a 55mm filter for more power. The Nikon Fieldscope is lightweight (just over a pound) and can survive being in a meter of water for 5 minutes—so no worries if you accidentally drop the scope while setting up along the banks of an alpine lake. The lens is also fog-free thanks to nitrogen gas that displaces oxygen. 

Best for hunting: Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E

SEE IT

The best spotting scope for hunting gives you the clearest view of when a shot is clear—even from football field-lengths away. This Vortex Optics scope takes that ability to a whole new dimension, with a 1-6×24, extra-low dispersion objective lens that lets you see up to 600 yards in front of you. An illuminated center dot helps with precision at all hours of the day. Plus, the durable aluminum construction has a low-glare matte finish that helps with camouflage, and the 4-inch eye relief means you don’t have strain to set your sights on the target.

Best for bird watchers: Maven S.1A Spotting Scope

SEE IT

Whether you’re trying to snap an evening grosbeak or a new morning bird, the best spotting scopes offer a factor of 10 greater magnifying power over the best birding binoculars. The Maven S.1A scope is ideal for bird watching because it features 25x to 50x zoom that lets you follow a bird as it flies farther away, as well as an 80mm fluorite lens designed to deliver a bright view, from dawn till dusk. The robust objective lens does add to the weight—this scope checks in at 4 pounds—but at 14.9 by 6.3 by 3.9 inches, it’s still plenty packable. And the waterproof magnesium/polymer frame is also quite durable. 

Best for stargazers: Celestron Regal M2 100ED

SEE IT

Made with the same lens coating that Celestron uses to maximize light transmission in its observatory telescopes, the Regal is the king of backyard stargazing making this our choice for best spotting scope for stargazing. The 100mm, extra-low dispersion glass provides vivid images, while the 22x to 67x zoom with an included eyepiece (the scope has 20x minimum magnification) will make the night sky feel as close as a planetarium ceiling. You can easily add this scope to your photography equipment thanks to a T-mount adapter that connects to your DSLR. At 5 pounds, this Celestron scope is somewhat hefty, but it includes a carrying case that can stay on the spotting scope while you’re using it, offering added protection to the already waterproof frame.      

Best budget: Bushnell 12-36x50mm Ultra Compact Spotting Scope

SEE IT

For hundreds of dollars less than some of the best spotting scopes on the market, you get Bushnell, a 50mm objective lens with 12x to 36x zooming. It’s is the best for the money, considering it also features a multi-coated lens that will transmit light well. Although it won’t match the vivid look you’ll get out of an extra-low dispersion glass lens, you will get a tripod included with your purchase, plus water and fog protection. 

What to consider when shopping for the best spotting scopes

Some things like waterproofing and fog resistance are all but standard. But when it comes to glass quality, magnification, and lens sizes, the best spotting scopes vary widely. Here’s what to consider as you search for the best spotting scope for your specific purposes. 

Have you considered every angle? 

Some spotting scopes come with a straight-through viewing setup, similar to binoculars, while others have eye pieces that are angled at 45 degrees. Although it might not seem intuitive to angle the eyepiece, the angled setup is more comfortable when you’re sitting or lying down, and it also works better with tripods, preventing you from having to crouch. In addition, if you’re bird watching, and therefore often looking up, the angled configuration means you don’t have to tilt your neck to focus on the sky.  

Does your scope come with the best in glass?

The best spotting scopes have fluorite-coated, high density, or extra-low dispersion glass lenses that create a brighter, more vivid view by allowing all colors to come into focus at once. This is also known as limiting chromatic aberration. The quality of the glass determines how well you’ll be able to see with your spotting scope—and even how far you’ll be able to see. Scopes with the same 80mm lenses and magnification ranges can vary significantly based on the glass quality. Remember, it doesn’t really matter how much you can magnify a blurry view.   

Do you want to zoom with your view? 

Some scopes allow you to change the magnification level, while others have eyepieces with fixed magnification levels. If your focus changes, or you’re following a fast-moving target— like birds—zooming is a helpful feature. But note that as you zoom in, you also limit your overall field of vision. Zoom lenses let you change from less than 20x to more than 60x but tend to not gather light as well as fixed lenses, though this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule.  

Is there relief for sore eyes?

With the best spotting scopes, you don’t have to actually press your eye to the eyepiece in order to see out. That’s helpful if you wear glasses or if you want to limit the irritation that could come from using a scope for a sustained period of time. Eye relief refers to the distance (typically in millimeters) that your eye can be behind the focal point to see the entire field of view. Anywhere between 12mm to 15mm of eye relief should work for most people who wear glasses, but some of the best hunting scopes have an eye relief that stretches several inches, meaning hunters don’t have to crouch over their scope as they wait for the deer to show up.   

Is the eyepiece included?

It’s worth noting that eyepieces are sometimes sold separately from scopes. Pay attention to what’s supposed to be included —otherwise, you may feel blindsided when a scope shows up without an eyepiece. 

FAQs

The final word on shopping for the best spotting scopes

• Best for photographers: Nikon Fieldscope ED50 Angled
• Best for hunting: Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E
• Best for bird watchers: Maven S.1A Spotting Scope
• Best for stargazers: Celestron Regal M2 100ED
• Best budget: Bushnell Ultra Compact Spotting Scope

The best scopes let you see clearly from hundreds of yards away. But finding the most powerful scope is not as clear as simply looking for the largest lens, or the scope that offers the most amount of zoom. Glass quality is the penultimate factor in determining how brightly and vividly a lens will be able to transmit light. Ultimately, the best spotting scope is going to be in the eye of the beholder.  

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best spotting scopes of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Google Nest Cam Outdoor		SEE IT	This comprehensive security system comes with smart alerts that use AI to distinguish between noises.
Best for the entire house		Deep Sentinel Smart Security Cameras		SEE IT	Connects to live guards, analyzes 50 images per second, and provides 40 feet of night vision.
Best budget		Wyze Cam V3		SEE IT	This affordable option comes with 1080p color night viewing, weather protection, two-way talk, motion detection, and more.

Since the people inside your home matter the most, the security system that you have outside really counts. The best outdoor security camera system is one that is designed to protect the areas you consider most vulnerable. Whether that means finding a doorbell camera that can watch the front door or a complete home surveillance system that puts multiple eyes on the entire perimeter of your house, you need something that helps you feel as safe as possible. Here’s a guide to finding the best outdoor security camera systems to protect you and your loved ones.  

• Best overall: Google Nest Cam Outdoor  
• Best for the entire house: Deep Sentinel Smart Security Cameras 
• Best doorbell camera: Arlo Essential Video Doorbell
• Best budget: Wyze Cam V3 

The best outdoor security camera systems: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re looking for an outdoor camera that you can install yourself, or you want a professional to customize your surveillance system, here are the best outdoor security camera systems.

Best overall: Google Nest Cam Outdoor 

SEE IT

The Google Nest outdoor camera can be set up with a few simple steps. Connect the camera to your home’s wireless internet, pair it with your phone, plug it in to an outside outlet, and mount it. Of course, some homes may require more nuance—like drilling through an exterior wall to connect the camera to an indoor power outlet, or adjusting the planned mounting location to get a better wireless signal. Still, as far as wireless outdoor security cameras go, the Nest installs easily. It also works seamlessly, monitoring your home 24/7. It’ll send you motion alerts through the app—for $6 a month you can upgrade to Nest Aware, which, in addition to added video storage, offers intelligent alerts that can distinguish between worrisome activity and squirrels. Additionally, the camera features microphones and speakers for two-way talk, can record in up to 1080p HD, and has eight infrared LEDs that provide powerful night vision. The Nest Cam can also see in inclement weather thanks to an IP65 resistance rating. This means the surveillance system should withstand wind and rain, snow and sleet, and temperatures between -4 degrees and 104 degrees Fahrenheit.  

Best for the entire house: Deep Sentinel Smart Security Cameras

SEE IT

Connecting to live guards who will see your video feed the moment a threat is detected, the Deep Sentinel Smart Security Cameras outdoor surveillance system can contact law enforcement in 30 seconds. The system works with a hub that supports up to six battery-powered cameras with 130-degree viewing angles. Those cameras also offer 40 feet of night vision, and the hub features a 64GB hard drive, plus the system offers four months of cloud storage. The hub connects to an AI system that can analyze 50 images per second at a resolution up to 1080p HD. (You can also access the live feed yourself by syncing your smartphone.) If the AI detects unusual activity, the system automatically patches in live agents who can use the two-way intercom to abate an intruder before taking additional action. Before installing, note the maximum wireless range between the cameras and the hub is listed at 100 feet, and the camera batteries are slated to last three months.

Best doorbell camera: Arlo Essential Video Doorbell

SEE IT

Doorbell cameras have popped up a bunch over the last few years and it’s easy to see why they’re so popular. With the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell, you can talk to visitors at your front door from practically anywhere in the world. When visitors press the bell, the outdoor surveillance camera gives you the option of opening a video chat on your phone, so you can tell the delivery person to put the package in a different spot or thank the dog walker for their help. These wireless outdoor security cameras offer up to 4K live video streaming, two-way talk, and motion alerts. Upgrading to an Arlo Smart subscription adds features like 30 days of cloud storage and activity zones, which tell the camera to pay extra attention to motion in specific locations. The outdoor surveillance camera also comes equipped with a built-in siren that you can trigger from the app, smart assistant integration, and LEDs for night vision.

Best budget: Wyze Cam V3

SEE IT

At about $35, the Wyze Cam V3 is extremely well-equipped. It offers the same IP65 weather protection as the Google Nest listed above, 1080p color night viewing that uses low-light amplifiers to illuminate dark places, and even 14 days of cloud storage, plus a micro SD slot that enables rolling recording. In addition, the wired security camera comes with two-way talk, motion and sound detection, and smoke and carbon monoxide alerts that notify you when those alarms are activated. The main downside is the wired security camera won’t pan or tilt, so your viewing angle is limited. Still, given the price, it’s no wonder that more than 10,000 global Amazon ratings give these cheap security cameras an average of 4.6 stars. 

What to consider when shopping for the best outdoor security camera systems

From the clearest picture to potential obstacles, there is a lot to consider when shopping for the best outdoor security camera system. Here are some important elements to factor in—for instance, can your camera stand up to the elements?—as you set your sights on the surveillance system that’s right for your home.

Can you see clearly now?

The best outdoor security camera systems can transmit up to 4K HD video. They may also feature infrared LED lights that enable night vision. Look for models that boast such capabilities if you expect a sharp picture, even at night. 

Is the rain gone?

Outdoor home security cameras must be capable of enduring the elements. Look for IP65 ratings and above that indicate the camera can withstand rain, snow, and dust. It’s important to note that even if a camera can handle any weather, you shouldn’t mount it just anywhere. Covered areas are always better, since raindrops or direct sunlight could obscure what the lens sees. Also, make sure the camera’s listed temperature range extends to include the extreme highs and lows in your area.

What obstacles are in the way?

Outdoor security cameras rely on some type of connection in order to transmit video footage to a place where you can view it. Some wireless security camera systems transmit the footage directly to your synced smartphone, while others do so via a separate hub. Meanwhile, wired security cameras require a direct cable connection. No matter which option you choose, you want to make sure barriers won’t get in your way. Obstacles may include thick walls or insulation limiting the wireless signal that can reach the camera mounted outside, too much distance between the hub and camera, or too much distance between your ethernet port and desired outdoor surveillance camera location. Before you purchase any outdoor security system, consider what kinds of hurdles could prevent a specific system from operating effectively in the space you want your camera to watch.

Do you want to talk back? 

Many of the best outdoor security camera systems are equipped with mics and speakers that allow you to communicate with people near the camera. Some home security cameras even include audio alerts that you can trigger—or that get triggered automatically—when an unwanted visitor appears.

Do you need to stay alert?

Outdoor surveillance systems can alert you every time they detect motion. These alerts depend on the ability to sync to an app on your smartphone. Such alerts can be really helpful—but they can also be irksome. Smart alerts, which are often an add-on feature, use AI to determine whether motion is something you need to know about—or whether it’s just a bird.

Need the rerun or just the highlights?

Wireless security camera systems will allow you to check in on the live feed and watch up to a few days’ worth of detected activity. Most wireless cameras only turn on when you open the app or when they sense motion. This saves on cloud storage as well as battery life, which is important if the camera doesn’t plug into a power source. If you want to record 24/7 or view footage from a few weeks ago, you should consider buying either a wired security camera, a wireless camera that connects to a hard drive, or a subscription plan for additional space in the cloud.

FAQs

The final word on shopping for the best outdoor security camera systems

• Best overall: Google Nest Cam Outdoor  
• Best for the entire house: Deep Sentinel Smart Security Cameras 
• Best doorbell camera: Arlo Essential Video Doorbell
• Best budget: Wyze Cam V3 

Buying the best outdoor security camera system could mean opting for a well-equipped, professional surveillance system to give you peace of mind. It could also mean finding a sweet deal on an easy-to-use outdoor security camera. Ultimately, the best outdoor security camera system is one that makes you feel most at peace, even when you can’t be home sweet home.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best outdoor security camera systems of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best wireless		Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Security Camera		SEE IT	Convenient and secure
Best indoor		Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt		SEE IT	Keep an eye on the inside of your home
Best budget		Wyze Cam Pan		SEE IT	An affordable solution

Online shopping is more popular than ever. But that also means your front steps have become the new frontier for theft. The best home security cameras can help you guard against such threats. Of course, they can also help you keep an eye on your baby, pet, or nanny, if you so desire. That’s why shopping for security cameras can be dizzying. Do you need indoor home security cameras that pan 360 degrees? Do you require outdoor home security cameras that are monitored by real people? Is a wireless home security camera really wireless? Don’t worry, we’ve done the research so you can find the best home security cameras to put your mind at ease. 

• Best wireless: Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Security Camera
• Best outdoor: Ring Floodlight Cam
• Best indoor: Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt
• Best hidden: Fredi Mini Hidden Camera 
• Best cheap: Wyze Cam Pan

The best home security cameras

The best home security cameras are the ones best equipped to watch the location you want to monitor. Now that you’ve identified your most-needed features, here are our selections for the best security cameras for home. 

Best wireless home security cameras: Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Security Camera 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This solid, all-around solution is simple to install and use.

Specs:

• Wired or wireless: Wireless 
• Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
• Resolution: 2,550 x 1,440
• Field of view:  160 degrees

Pros: 

• Easy setup
• Excellent picture quality
• Monitoring zones
• Advanced notification options

Cons:

• Only comes with a magnetic mount, not a screw version

The 2K high-dynamic-range imaging—which offers a detailed picture of 2,550X1,440 maximum resolution, plus a spotlight, zoom feature, color night vision, and 160-degree viewing angle—means you can see all you need to with Arlo’s wireless home security cameras. They feature magnetic mounts, which make for relatively simple installation, however, that also means they can be easily taken—Arlo will replace stolen cameras for a year after you buy, or you can add hardware that screws the cameras into the wall. 

Connecting directly to your WiFi, with no hub required, the wireless home security cameras allow you to monitor activity right from your smartphone. They are compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and also come with a trial subscription to Arlo Smart, which offers various plans costing between $2.99 and $14.99 a month for cloud storage and live video streaming, among other benefits. 

The cameras will buzz your phone whenever they detect motion, and you can trigger an alert on the cameras to scare off unwanted visitors. You can also opt for lower sensitivity settings in high-action areas so that squirrels don’t set them off—although Amazon reviewers report mixed returns on this feature.

In addition, the cameras have a microphone and two-way audio, a battery that is said to last six months (it recharges in no more than 3.5 hours), and the cameras can work in temperatures ranging from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.       

Best outdoor home security cameras: Ring Floodlight Cam

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Built-in lights and an advanced camera keep close watch on your home.

Specs:

• Wired or wireless: Wired
• Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
• Resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 140 degrees

Pros:

• Advanced control through the app
• Two-way intercom
• Loud alarm
• Clear picture
• Motion sensor 

Cons:

• Pricy
• Needs hard wiring

Ring’s outdoor camera comes with a pair of bright lights that illuminate its coverage area to see what’s happening. It covers a 140-degree view of your yard, all of which gets illuminated by the built-in bulbs. Ring has an advanced motion detection algorithm that determines the source of the disturbance before sending an alert to your phone. Ring has one of the most robust apps and camera management systems that ties directly into the Alexa smart home platform. You can talk and listen through the two-way communication system and it has an extremely loud alarm if you need to alert your neighbors. You’ll have to hard wire it into your house for it to work, but it’s worth the extra bit of effort.

Best indoor home security cameras: Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Because it can move, this camera can give a comprehensive view of your interior spaces.

Specs:

• Wired or wireless: Indoor
• Indoor or outdoor: Wired
• Resolution: 2K HD
• Field of view: 360 degrees (with rotation)

Pros:

• Rotating base goes 360 degrees around and 96 degrees up and down
• High resolution images
• Built-in speaker

Cons:

• Lackluster app options

Whether you need to watch your baby sleeping or need added security in your TV room, indoor home security cameras can be your extra sets of eyes and ears. The Eufy Indoor cam is exactly that, featuring 2K motion-activated video recording from a camera that can spin all the way around and tilt 96 degrees. The cameras also include two-way audio, and smart integration with your Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, or Google Assistant, so you can use your voice to communicate with your son in the other room or with your smart device to instantly pull up the camera’s video feed on a synced tablet or phone. These indoor home security cameras also have onboard AI that detects whether that movement was a playful pet or a kid in need of attention. And at just over $50, the Eufy won’t severely dent your family’s budget. 

Best hidden home security cameras: Fredi Mini Hidden Camera 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It’s small enough not to be seen, but powerful enough for a solid picture.

Specs:

• Wired or wireless: Indoor
• Indoor or outdoor: Wired
• Resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 140 degrees

Pros: 

• Easy to conceal
• HD picture
• Wide field of view

Cons:

• Creeps can use it

Want to keep an eye on the nanny or the dog? Hidden home security cameras can be easily moved or concealed. The Fredi Mini Hidden Camera mounts with flexible straps—one Amazon reviewer attached it to his bike handles to use as a kind of GoPro—and it records in 1080p and captures 12-megapixel photos. The 4.5 cm by 4.5 cm by 2.5 cm motion-activated camera can record on a constant loop—even at night—and send footage to you via email. If you want to store old footage, you’ll need to purchase a microSD card (not included). No matter how you use these hidden home security cameras, you’ll need to plug it into the USB charger often—the battery only boasts an hour of run-time, although the camera is easily rechargeable with a USB cord. 

Best cheap home security cameras: Wyze Cam Pan 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This affordable solution still offers tons of features/

Specs:

• Wired or wireless: Indoor
• Indoor or outdoor: Wired
• Resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 360 degrees (rotating)

Pros:

• Rotates 360 degrees and tilts 93 degrees
• Affordable
• Solid image quality

Cons:

• Only 1080p resolution
• Limited customization

The best cheap home security cameras manage to pack in plenty of features and the Wyze Cam Pan doesn’t disappoint. It offers 1080p, 360-degree panning, 93 degrees of tilt, and infrared-enabled night vision at an affordable price. What’s more, it comes with free cloud storage to save two weeks’ worth of 12-second video clips, which are recorded whenever the camera detects movement. The WiFi camera is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant and can notify you whenever it sees motion—meaning you don’t have to constantly monitor the live feed to check on your sleeping baby. (Of course, no one will judge you for wanting to watch the adorableness that is a sleeping baby.) The Wyze is also made for family bonding of all kinds thanks to two-way audio and a downloadable app that provides multiple family members access to the same live camera feed. 

Related: Want a few more security cam options? Here are six.

How to shop for the best home security cameras 

Knowing where you are going to place your home security cameras is the biggest factor in finding the right models, because location truly affects the features you need. Everything from the mounting and internet connection to the motion-activation sensitivity and the picture clarity is determined by where you are going to put your cameras and what kind of footage you hope to capture. Once you’ve pinned down your precise camera locales, consider the following in clear detail to help narrow down your shopping options: 

Would you rather be wired or cut the cord?

One of the biggest differences between home security cameras is whether they are wireless or wired. The difference lies in how the cameras transmit the footage they capture. While wireless cameras are connected to a home’s WiFi and store footage on the cloud, wired cameras plug in directly to a coaxial or Ethernet cable, capturing video through a digital video recorder or a networked video recorder and storing footage on a hard drive. One note: Wireless cameras are not truly wire-free. Unless they run via a battery, they still have to be plugged into an outlet, while wired cameras typically get their power from their connected cable. 

Many people favor wireless cameras because they are easier to set up—follow the device’s instructions to connect to the WiFi and then mount the cameras—and use cloud storage, which lets owners access the video content via a synced smartphone from anywhere. However, cloud storage typically comes with a monthly fee and recent news stories highlight wireless security camera’s susceptibility to hacking. Plus, a spotty wireless connection could pixelate (or completely interrupt) your feed. 

Wired cameras tend to be more reliable and secure since their system stays local rather than involving the cloud. However, they often require expensive, professional setup, come with clunkier apps, and are not usually compatible with smart assistants. 

Do you need to see inside or out?

Whether you want to keep an eye on the front door or the baby’s snore could very well determine the kind of home security camera you’ll need. Many cameras are perfectly suitable for inside and outside use, but a few considerations could sway your purchase. Primarily, consider the power. Remember, many wireless cameras have to be plugged in to work. Therefore, pay attention to battery life. Some wireless cameras come with batteries that can last for months on a single charge, eliminating the need to install an outside outlet or run lengthy extension cords outside your home. However, most battery-powered cameras rely on motion activation—recording only when they sense movement—since a 24/7 feed would be draining.     

Mounting is another consideration to add when deciding between indoor and outdoor use. If your goal is to monitor your little one, you might be able to simply place your indoor home security camera on a side table beside the crib and call it good. Whereas, outside the home, you’ll definitely want something more secure. Some cameras offer magnetic mounts that make for easy installation—but they could also be all too easy to steal.  

Lastly, if the camera is going to be outside, it needs to stand up to the elements. Anything with an IP65 rating can combat even sideways rain and thick pollen, but if you live in an especially wet or dusty climate, a higher rating couldn’t hurt. Also, most cameras can withstand below-zero and over-100 degree temperatures, but before you buy, make sure the model you select can meet the needs of where you live. 

How’s the view?

Grainy, black-and-white security camera footage is no longer the norm. The best home security cameras shoot in clear, colorful high-definition that would practically be good enough for your next Superbowl party. Resolutions range from 1080p to 4K, and night vision is a common feature. Also, examine all the angles. Some cameras can pan all the way around and tilt 95 degrees, while others are limited to viewing angles of 140 degrees. The size and shape of the area you’re hoping to survey should dictate how much turning power you’ll need. 

Does your property need extra security?

Some cameras are more than just an eye on your home—they can actually be a critical piece in an active home security system. If you’re looking for added assurance, look for a home security camera that’s connected to a system that enables live agents to monitor your home in real-time, trigger alerts, and even call the authorities when necessary. Such services will cost hundreds of dollars a year, but what’s the price of true peace of mind?  

What level of notifications do you want?

Motion notifications can be hugely beneficial because they let you monitor activity without watching your camera’s livestream. However, at a certain point, motion notifications simply become annoying—and the second you stop caring about them is the second they become a lot less helpful. Some cameras have onboard artificial intelligence that deciphers between pets and humans, normal activities and threats, creating more customizable—and useful—notifications. 

Are you hoping the security camera can help you stay connected?

Home security cameras can be a form of connection. For starters, some feature two-way audio, with microphones and speakers that let you talk to family members in other rooms. 

Cameras can also come with apps that give multiple family members access to the same video feed—letting them share in the home surveillance responsibilities—while other cameras’ apps only enable one person to be in control. It’s also possible to connect to a smart device with some surveillance equipment. If compatible, you could ask Alexa or another smart assistant to pull up your camera feed on a synced smartphone or tablet, getting you that much closer to a truly smart home. 

Related: Need more than a camera? Here are complete home security systems.

FAQs

The final word on shopping for the best home security cameras 

• Best wireless: Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Security Camera
• Best outdoor: Ring Floodlight Cam
• Best indoor: Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt
• Best hidden: Fredi Mini Hidden Camera 
• Best cheap: Wyze Cam Pan

Wireless home security cameras tend to be easy to set up and use, but they are less reliable and less secure than wired cameras. Outdoor and indoor cameras often share many of the same features, so mounting and battery life could make the difference. And when it comes to features, the best home security cameras give you plenty of options, from vivid high-definition pictures to night vision to two-way audio to smart-home assistant connectivity. Even cheap home security cameras can integrate with your home network and offer all kinds of alerts and access. Available for every situation, a home security camera that makes you safer could be one of the smartest purchases you ever make.    

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best home security cameras for 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for beginners		DJI Mini 2		SEE IT	If you’re just learning how to fly drones, this easy-to-operate yet equally high-tech pick has all the functions you need to capture stunning footage.
Best for professionals		DJI Air 2S		SEE IT	With a one-inch image sensor, FocusTrack technology to keep your subject in focus, and a seven mile video transmission range, this pick will take your high-flying photo and videos to the next level.
Best budget		Holy Stone HS510		SEE IT	For those that are new to drones or want to try them out without a huge investment, this pick still offers features like 4K video recording and GPS at a lower cost.

From state parks to national news broadcasts, drone photography and videography is becoming a regular activity, giving us glimpses of our world that were once reserved for the birds. But even if you’re a skilled photographer, incorporating a drone into your work is an entirely new skill set. Fortunately, the best drones for beginners can be easy to use, with safeguards like automatic landings to protect against crashes. Still, finding the right drone with the right set of features can be even more daunting than that first flight.  But chin up! Here’s what you need to know when shopping for a flying camera that looks down. 

• Best overall: DJI Mini 2 
• Best for travelers: Parrot Anafi 
• Best budget: Holy Stone HS510
• Best for professional photographers and videographers: DJI Air 2S
• Best for kids: Potensic A20W Drone for Kids

How we picked the best drones for beginners

Price and ease of use were two primary considerations in selecting products for this list of best drones for beginners. The in-flight stability was also important, as beginner drones should be easy to control in the air even with some wind. We also considered camera quality and video recording capabilities. Lastly, we looked at flight modes and features like GPS and obstacle detection.

The best drones for beginners: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: DJI Mini 2 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The DJI Mini 2 is a lightweight but easy-to-fly drone capable of 4K video and 12MP photos. 

Specs

• Camera: 4K/30fps video, 12 megapixels stills
• Flight time: 31 minutes
• Weight: 8.78 ounces

Pros: 

• Doesn’t need to be registered with the FAA
• 4K video capabilities with zoom 
• Long flight time
• Stable in the air, even with some wind

Cons: 

• No obstacle avoidance sensors

With a maximum flight time of 31 minutes and Level 5 wind resistance that can withstand gusts up to 25 mph without knocking the camera off-kilter, this DJI drone is built to help you get the shot—even from the top of a 13,000-foot peak. A 3-axis gimbal responds to the turbulence, ensuring that the camera captures steady 12mp photos or 4K video. 

But what makes this one of the best drones for beginners is just how easy it is to use. On the piloting side, it features automatic takeoff, accurate hovering, and a system that will send the drone back down to you when the battery gets too low. On the photography side, the camera automatically starts recording with just a few clicks. Additionally, the DJI Mini 2 drone supports 10km of HD video transmission that syncs to your app for nearly instant editing or sharing. At less than 250 grams (8.8 ounces), the small drone weighs about as much as an apple. It’s also a foldable drone that can pack into the pocket of your climbing pack. So, hit the trails and head on up—the views always get better the higher you go. 

Best for travelers: Parrot Anafi

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Parrot Anafi is a foldable drone that comes with a padded case, ideal for those traveling with a drone. The unique 180-degree tilting camera lets you film action above the camera.

Specs

• Camera: 4K HD video, 21 megapixel stills
• Flight time: 25 minutes
• Weight: 1.56 pounds

Pros: 

• Very compact when folded down
• Camera can tilt 180 degrees
• Comes with a nice case
• Built-in zoom

Cons: 

• No obstacle detection
• A little challenging to fly

Either of the DJI drones listed above could work well for travelers, but the Anafi drone is the best drone for beginners for those on the go, parroting similar camera steadiness seen in the DJIs—3-axis stability—while showcasing features all its own. Its gimbal can support 180 degrees of tilt, and at one pound and a half and 9.4 by 6.9 by 2.6 inches, the Anafi is a portable,  foldable drone that packs nicely into its case.

The Anafi is also technologically robust, shooting in 4K with an f/2.4 wide-angle aspheric lens that offers 2.8x digital zoom and captures 21mp photos. The 4km transmission range means the drone can travel a long distance from you, and the battery provides an ample 25 minutes of filmed flight time, recharging in 1.5 hours via a USB-C cord.

Best budget: Holy Stone HS510

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Holy Stone HS510 is a capable yet affordable drone with 4K Ultra HD video and GPS.

Specs 

• Camera: 4K HD
• Flight time: 16 minutes per battery, 32 minutes total
• Weight: 8.8 ounces

Pros: 

• Comes with two batteries
• Built-in display on the remote
• Small enough to not require FAA registration
• 4K video

Cons: 

• Only has single-axis stabilization
• Camera angle can only be adjusted manually

You don’t have to throw money away to find the best drone for beginners, especially not when you consider the features that come in the HS510. For example, this Holy Stone drone can record 4K Ultra HD video with a 120-degree wide field of view. In addition, it is compact, foldable, and lightweight enough that you don’t need to register it with the FAA.

You will lose some features in this budget drone compared to the more expensive DJI options. For example, it only has a 1-axis gimble, so the video smoothness won’t be exceptional. And the camera angle has to be adjusted manually, so once it’s in the air, there is nothing you can do if you don’t have it pointed the right way. But it does have a dual GPS module which allows for more accurate tracking and modes like Follow me and Smart Return Home, something you don’t get with the lower-end DJI models.

Best for professional photographers and videographers: DJI Air 2S

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The DJI Air 2S has a compact body with stunning 5.4K video and 20-megapixel photos.

Specs

• Camera: 5.4K/30fps video, 20 megapixel stills
• Flight time: 31 minutes
• Weight: 1.3 pounds

Pros: 

• Four-way obstacle avoidance detection
• Good flight time
• 3-axis gimbal for stable video
• High quality video and photo

Cons: 

• Controller isn’t foldable

The Air 2S is a DJI drone that gives you even more than the Mini 2. But, as the premium pick for the best drone for beginners, it costs more than twice as much (almost $1,000 vs. under $500). For that extra money, you get two kilometers (1.24 miles) of additional video transmission (up to 12km of range), 10k digital zoom, 5.4K high-definition video, and a 10-bit Dlog-M color profile that lets you capture the world in all its glory.

The DJI Air 2S camera also records photos at up to 12.6 stops for detailed original images and features intelligent HDR that automatically merges multiple shots. Other smart technology includes tracking that lets you better follow a subject on the move and environmental sensing that helps prevent you from flying the drone into walls and trees.

Best for kids: Potensic A20W Drone for Kids

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Potensic A20W is an affordable mini drone that still has video capabilities and stable flying. It’s a great way to introduce kids to drone flying and videography.

Specs

• Camera: HD 720p video and photos
• Max flight time: 21 minutes via three batteries
• Weight: 14 ounces

Pros

• Stable flight
• Simple flight controls
• Propeller guards for safety
• Affordable

Cons

• Smartphone and app required to use the camera

If you want to introduce your child to drone flying and drone photography, the Potensic A20W is a great option. Though the camera quality isn’t near the professional level, it does have an HD 720p camera for both videos and photos. In addition, the included remote has 2.4G WiFi which allows you to connect via an app for even more controls.

With one-button take-off and landing and headless and altitude hold modes, the A20W is easy to fly, even for those completely new to drone flying. It also has Gravity Induction mode when using a smartphone, which allows you to control the drone by tilting the phone. It is very stable to fly for such a small, inexpensive drone. And, since this is designed for kids, the sturdy propeller guards are a welcome sight to protect the drone, your home, and other people.

What to consider when shopping for the best drones for beginners 

Whether you need a long-range drone to fly far away or a drone with a longer flight time to capture more footage, you can find the right drone for you. The best drones for beginners can shoot in 4K and travel four miles away. They can also land on their own or track a subject automatically. But not all drones are the same. Here are some key features to consider when shopping for the best drones for beginners. 

Do you need a beginner drone with a longer flying time to set up the perfect shot? 

On average, drones can only fly for about 20 minutes, with the range spanning between five minutes and 30-plus minutes. Lightweight batteries simply don’t exist to support more sustained work in a flying device. The flight time you need depends on whether you’re looking to send the drone up for a quick aerial shot of the family barbecue or whether you need some time searching for the right panoramic of an alpine lake. 

Do you need a drone with a long range?

A drone’s range is determined by the quality of the radio transmission, which is essentially the invisible connection between you (or the controls) and your drone. While some drones can only travel a few dozen meters away from the base, some of the best drones for beginners are capable of shooting high-definition video from more than seven miles away. 

What kind of camera should your beginner drone have? 

The bird’s-eye angle alone all but guarantees that drones will capture amazing video and take compelling photos, but the onboard technology could make it a certainty. The best drones for beginners can shoot in crystal-clear HD video (8K is possible with top-of-the-line models) and produce 20-plus megapixel photos. Many camera drones also feature zooming and panoramic modes to let you see clearly both near and far. Camera drones with gimbals are designed to keep the lens steady by activating motors on different axes as the drone flies through the air. 

 What kind of control are you looking for? 

While some drones come with their own controllers, other drones can be flown using a sync-ed smartphone. The handheld controllers are more reliable and provide a more accurate response than smartphone controls, but they can also have a steeper learning curve or add to the price point—or may only be available as an accessory purchase. Other control features also exist. Some drones can take off and land with the press of a button, while others automatically come back to you or land safely when their battery is low. In addition, you can find drones that sync with virtual reality headsets, drones that can lower at the sound of your voice, and ones that can take photos with the wave of your hand. 

Related: Everything you need to know about buying your first drone.

Do you want a smart drone?

Most of the best drones for beginners are enabled with a GPS that allows for some amount of autopiloting. But others are also equipped with sensors that read the environment and help the drone avoid obstacles on its own. Some drones are also designed to track a moving subject, taking the controls—and the worry—out of your hands,  which lets you focus on finding the perfect shot.

FAQs

The final word on shopping for the best drones for beginners 

From the best drones for pros to the best drones for kids to the best drones for your buck, you can find many different drones that will work for your particular needs. High-definition video, autonomous features, and easy-to-use controls are all attainable, even without spending a grand for the truly top-of-the-line model. Shopping for the best drones for beginners is a matter of matching the feature set you desire to the best product to help you capture the most eye-catching footage from way up high.  

The post The best drones for beginners in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for extreme athletes		Chesty Performance Chest Mount		SEE IT	When it comes to a natural viewpoint and steady shooting, chest mounts seriously outperform head mounts.
Best for shooting in the dark		GoPro Light Mod		SEE IT	With output up to 200 lumens, this little light provides a surprising amount of illumination.
Best for all-day outings		SanDisk 128GB Memory Card		SEE IT	This card is big and fast enough to pull down high-res and slow-mo footage, but buy a few and swap them so you don’t lose a whole day of shooting if you lose the camera.

When it comes to shooting action, the camera is important, but GoPro accessories can make a huge difference in the excitement level of your footage. The GoPro name is short for “going pro.” As in, making a living from surfing, which was company founder Nick Woodman’s dream when he created GoPro in the early 2000s. Today, GoPro cameras continue to inspire adventurous content creators in death-defying pursuits, as well as normal people looking for a super-tough, high-quality camera. No matter what you’re shooting, the best accessories for GoPro will help realize those images you have in your head.

Lights, mounts, GoPro lens filters, and other GoPro equipment let you get the most out of your camera, because they can enable you to shoot in more places, for more amount of time, and under better conditions. Here are the best GoPro accessories to help you go for it, whatever your dreams entail. 

• Best for extreme athletes: Chesty Performance Chest Mount
• Best for shooting in the dark: GoPro Light Mod
• Best for rough trails: GoPro Karma Grip
• Best for underwater adventurers: PolarPro DiveMaster Filter Kit
• Best for all-day outings: SanDisk 128GB Memory Card

The best GoPro accessories for upping your photo game

For nature lovers and extreme-sport enthusiasts alike, GoPro accessories can equip you to take the best possible footage. Here are the best GoPro accessories for your next adventure.

Best for extreme athletes: Chesty Performance Chest Mount

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: When it comes to a natural viewpoint and steady shooting, chest mounts seriously outperform head mounts.

Key features:

• Stretchy, adjustable straps
• Carry bag
• Built-in mount

Pros:

• The best possible point of view for many activities
• Makes the camera feel light
• Stretchy straps fit over bulky coats or pads
• Sturdy chest pad is hard to break

Cons:

• Bulky to store when traveling
• Can get snagged if you’re moving through the woods

This adjustable padded camera mount is so flexible, it’ll stretch to fit over most ski jackets. Yet shoulder straps make it secure enough for steeps, bumps, and jumps, regardless of your means of transport. At just 5 ounces, the camera mount is lightweight and breathable. 

This is the best way to get stable footage from a recognizable point of view. It easily beats helmet mounts in almost every setting.

Best for shooting in the dark: GoPro Light Mod

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With output up to 200 lumens, this little light provides a surprising amount of illumination. 

Key features

• Waterproof to 33 feet
• Up to 200 lumen output
• Up to six hours of battery life

Pros:

• Surprisingly bright for its size
• Rugged built
• Easy attachment to a camera or mount

Cons:

• Only compatible with most recent models

This GoPro light features four brightness settings that deliver up to 200 lumens of output, making it about as bright as the best headlamps. Take the Mod on your next shallow dive—the LED GoPro light is made of carbon fiber that’s waterproof up to 33 feet. Or take it on your next overnight climb—the rechargeable battery offers up to 6 hours of run time. A strobe feature lets you use it as a beacon, so it can be as much a part of your survival gear kit as it is one of your camera accessories. The GoPro light is compatible with the Hero9 Black or Hero10 Black, or it can be used as a standalone mount with other GoPro mounts.  

Best for rough trails: GoPro Karma Grip

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The built-in image stabilization can sometimes use help from an outside source. This grip can handle the seriously choppy stuff.

Key features: 

• Weight: 1 pound
• Built-in camera controls
• Two-hour battery

Pros: 

• Compact
• Built-in camera controls
• Excellent at smoothing footage

Cons

• Limited battery life
• Takes some getting used to

While gimbals have been around since Ancient Greece, they seem to be all the rage right now in action photography because they can create shake-free footage, even on the bumpiest of terrain. Gimbal-equipped stabilizers like the GoPro Karma Grip allow the camera to be fixed on one axis as you and the stick move around it. 

The 1-pound GoPro Karma Grip is compatible with GoPro mounts, meaning you can hold it, or fix it to your GoPro backpack. Use it to stop or start recording, adjust the camera angle, or tag footage while you’re on the go. The battery tops out at two hours, but how long can you really tolerate a bumpy road anyway?

Best for underwater adventurers: PolarPro DiveMaster Filter Kit

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These high-end filters negate the weird color casts and contrast issues that pop up during submerged shooting. 

Key features:

• Tool-free attachment
• Different colors for various situations
• Rugged glass resists impacts

Pros:

• Easy to attach
• Durable
• Easy to transport

Cons:

• Easy to lose

GoPro made its mark in part because it produced fish-eye cameras that function so well underwater. Filters let you maximize what you see when you’re shooting in a pair of fins, providing more vibrancy in the muddled blues and greens of the water. Use the red GoPro lens filter for blue water, magenta for green, and the snorkel filter for skimming along the surface. Made for the Hero10 Black protective housing, the GoPro lens filters attach easily without any tools. These should be part of your GoPro accessory kit if you’re doing any underwater shooting.

Best SD Card for GoPro: SanDisk 128GB Memory Card 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This card is big and fast enough to pull down high-res and slow-mo footage, but buy a few and swap them so you don’t lose a whole day of shooting if yo lose the camera.

Key features:

• Up to 1 TB space
• Class 10
• Fast enough for 4K video

Pros:

• Affordable
• Fast enough for high-res footage
• Super reputable brand

Cons:

• Still tiny and easy to lose

Reading footage at a rate of 160 megabytes per second, the GoPro SD card can support 4K HD files. And offering 128 gigabytes of storage for under $25, this is a great gift idea if you’re looking to give a GoPro accessory on a budget—or if you or the GoPro content creator you know records A LOT of material.  If you’re looking for more storage options, check out our list of the best SD cards for GoPros.

Best tripod: Joby GorillaPod Action

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This flexible tripod can grab onto just about any object, which makes it super versatile, even for carrying. 

Key features:

• Three flexible legs
• Standard tripod socket
• Rubberized coating
• 0.42 pounds

Pros:

• Includes GoPro mount in the box
• Extremely versatile
• Sturdy legs
• Heavy enough to also support larger cameras

Cons:

• Could be taller

Joby’s flexible GorillaPods have articulating legs that wrap around just about any object and hold a camera steady in practically any position. This model is aimed specifically at action cameras users. It comes with a GoPro mount in the box. If you want to switch over to a larger camera, it uses a standard tripod screw for attachment. 

The integrated ball head offers tons of positioning options. It can rotate and tilt until you get the perfect point of view. Despite its versatility, the whole package only weighs 0.42 pounds, so it’s easy to chuck in a pack and take out into the world. 

Best helmet mount: Sametop Adhesive Helmet Mounts

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: These simple mounts peel off easily and provide a solid connection to the helmet.

Key features:

• Curved and flat versions to fit various surfaces
• Pack includes six
• 3M adhesive

Pros:

• Choice between flat and curved mounts fits easily to any helmet
• Won’t leave residue when removed
• Cheap

Cons:

• Packs include flat and curved so you might not use them all

These adhesive pads mimic those that come with the GoPro in the first place. Each pack of six includes three flat-bottomed mounts and three curved-bottom mounts. The flat ones stick to pretty much anything, while the curved mounts are specifically designed to fit onto the top or side of a helmet. They rely on 3M adhesive to stay in place, so they won’t budge, even if they hit an errant tree branch. Once you do remove them, they won’t leave a residue on your helmet. There are more elaborate ways to mount a GoPro to a helmet, but sometimes simpler is better.

Best backpack mount: Stuntman Pack Mount

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This burly backpack mount won’t come loose or flop around on your hiking or running adventures. 

Key features:

• Velcro straps
• Fits backpack straps up to 2.5 inches wide
• Rotating mount

Pros:

• Attaches firmly with a pair of straps in case one comes loose
• Offers lots of camera angle possibilities
• Sturdy back provides a solid base
• Elevated camera position provides a unique perspective

Cons:

• Bulky

If you want to document a hike or another activity that won’t allow you to wear the camera on your chest, then a backpack mount may be what you’re looking for. This device clamps around a backpack’s shoulder strap. It can accommodate straps up to 2.5 inches wide. Once the mount is in place, a pair of burly Velcro straps wrap around to keep everything secure. 

The camera mount itself rotates up and down so you can tweak the exact position of the camera. In its highest position, the camera sits slightly above where other backpack straps tend to hold it, which makes for a more eye-level experience in the video.

Best for scuba: GoPro Handler

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This floating grip will drag your GoPro camera to the top of the water if you drop it when out swimming, diving, or boating. 

Key features:

• 7.5 inches long
• 5.9 ounce weight
• Quick release mount

Pros:

• Floating feature helps keep cameras off the bottom of the sea
• Non-slip grip is easy to hold onto, even when wet
• Small and light 
• Lanyard keeps it attached to your body if you drop it

Cons:

• Wish the whole thing was orange for even more visibility

GoPros survive just fine in the water, but they’re not very useful if you can’t find them. This simple grip has a quick release mount on the top and a lanyard on the bottom. Attach the camera and wrap the lanyard around your wrist and you’re ready to go diving without worrying about losing an expensive camera. The whole handle floats, even with a camera attached, so dropping a GoPro in the water won’t result in hours spent searching around on the bottom with the shells and people’s lost AirPods. 

Best for travel: Surewo Surface waterproof case

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This waterproof case provides protection for the camera as well as a secure place for all its accessories.

Key features:

• Enough storage for one camera, three batteries, a grip, and mounts
• Water resistant PF construction
• Zipper closure
• Weighs 11.7 ounces

Pros:

• Sturdy construction
• Pre-cut foam insert
• Holds a useful amount without extra bulk
• Compact

Cons:

• It’s only water-resistant, not waterproof

GoPros are tough, but keeping them clanging around in a bag can cause a lot of unnecessary wear and tear. This padded case contains a pre-cut foam insert with slots for a camera, three batteries, a grip, and some mounts. Not only does it protect all of those pieces, but it keeps them nicely organized, which can be a real boon when you’re out shooting. The case weighs in at less than a pound and will keep moisture out, even in damp conditions.

What to consider when shopping for the best GoPro accessories

You can find GoPro accessory kits with dozens of items, ranging from head mounts to tripods. And indeed all of that equipment can help you get the most out of your GoPro. But for this article, we’ve focused on the best GoPro accessories that will help you capture better content— whether that means a camera mount to get true POV footage on the slopes, or a GoPro light to brighten your shots when the sun’s going down. Here’s what to consider when shopping for the best GoPro accessories to create better content.    

What’s it all a mount to?

GoPro camera mounts give your GoPro a place to rest while you’re most active. And that means you’ll be more likely to forget about the fact that you’re filming, and just let her rip. There are a variety of GoPro mounting accessories, including handheld tripod mounts, helmet mounts, wearable mounts, and mounts designed to go underwater. Some mounts use suction cups to affix to either your boat, car, or plane, while other mounts clamp to your bike handlebars or ski poles to capture footage that can really improve your training. Meanwhile, GoPro gimbal mounts use motion sensors to stabilize the camera, even on rocky trails. 

Your GoPro will come with some mounting option in the box—for instance, the GoPro Hero7 includes curved adhesive mounts, while the GoPro Hero9 comes with mounting brackets—but buying a separate GoPro mount will give you something that’s better equipped to handle what you like to do.

Do you need to see things in a new light?

If you plan to shoot at night or underwater, you’ll need something that can change the lighting. These GoPro attachments grip directly to your camera and are even waterproof, giving you extra LED-supplied brightness when you’re walking under the stars or swimming beneath the surface. 

Meanwhile, GoPro lens filters adjust the shade to give you the clearest picture in a variety of settings—from the bright afternoon sun to the low light of dusk. 

Do you need more?

Whether filming laps on the ski hill or deep dives to shipwreck, GoPro cameras are designed to be used in places where you don’t want to stop. That means you may run out of basic camera needs like memory space and battery life more quickly than you’d like. A GoPro subscription will give you cloud storage for your files, but extra GoPro SD cards will let you keep shooting new stuff when you’re in the backcountry, or don’t want to take a break to upload your content. Meanwhile, supplemental chargers that plug in or connect to a power source via USB ensure that you always have a spare battery, so you never have to waste a day. On average, the GoPro batteries last about 90 minutes when you’re going hard and filming in HD. 

FAQs

The final word on shopping for the best GoPro accessories

GoPro cameras are unique in their ability to capture action footage at the tops of mountains and under the sea. If you don’t already own one, check out our list of the best GoPros overall. But no matter which camera you buy, the best GoPro accessories are required if you’re hoping to get the most out of your camera. After all, you wouldn’t ski or bike without the necessary add-ons, so why would you want to film these activities without the best GoPro accessories? 

The post The best GoPro accessories for 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best camera battery charger		DigiPower Universal Li-ion Battery Charger		SEE IT	This universal charger works with all the major brands, fits in your pocket, and comes with an adapter for your car.
Best tripod for beginners		TYCKA Rangers Travel Tripod		SEE IT	This lightweight aluminum tripod rotates 360 degrees, converts to a monopod, and features a built-in level to steady the shot.
Best photo book		Understanding Exposure By Bryan Peterson		SEE IT	Learn about the basics of light, aperture, and shutter speed in this classic by  a well-known photographer.

Yes, you can spend your life amassing more photography accessories. But some camera equipment is especially helpful for those just starting out. Whether you know someone with a DSLR on their wishlist or a friend who needs a way to carry their new camera to the top of a mountain, we’ve compiled a list of the best birthday gifts for beginner photographers. It includes a broad scope of items, from practical purchases like chargers and SD cards to more fun purchases like printers and reflectors. No matter your budget, this list of the best birthday gifts for beginner photographers is made to get your friends or family members set up to capture memories they’ll be looking back on for years to come.   

• Best camera for beginners: Nikon D3500
• Best camera bag: Vanguard Alta Sky 51D
• Best camera battery charger: DigiPower Universal Li-ion Battery Charger 
• Best tripod for beginners: TYCKA Rangers Travel Tripod 
• Best portable printer: Canon Selphy CP1300 Compact Photo Printer 
• Best camera strap: Peak Design Leash Camera Strap 
• Best SD card: Transcend 32 GB UHS-II Class 3 Memory Card
• Best online photography course for beginners: Beginners Start Here
• Best photo book: Understanding Exposure By Bryan Peterson 
• Best reflector set: Neewer 5-in-1 Collapsible Light Reflector

The best birthday gifts for beginner photographers 

From the best camera and the best camera bag to the best online course and photo book, we’ve compiled the best birthday gifts for beginner photographers. 

Best camera for beginners: Nikon D3500

SEE IT

Nikon boasts that if you can take a picture with a smartphone, you can take a picture using the D3500’s automatic mode, making it one of the best cameras for beginners. The image sensor is roughly 15 times bigger than most smartphone sensors, resulting in sharper, more detailed photos. The Nikon DSLR camera captures 24.2-megapixel images and can shoot video in 1080p. And with the ability to take five frames per second, it’ll keep up with the action as long as the beginning photographer on your list isn’t planning to use it to shoot extreme sports. Other novice-friendly features include 11 autofocus points on the frame, built-in flash, and an interactive guide that can be viewed on the 3-inch LCD screen.  

Best camera bag: Vanguard Alta Sky 51D

SEE IT

Without a proper camera bag, photographers are limited in where they can cart their camera equipment, thus limiting the pictures they can take. That’s why a camera bag like the Alta Sky 51D is one of the best birthday gifts for beginner photographers. The 6.44-pound backpack features well-padded shoulder straps, breathable mesh back pads, a sternum strap, and hip pads to displace the weight of all your gear—it can hold nearly 30 pounds of stuff. It has a customizable interior, with multiple zippered access points, that can be set up to carry a full load of camera equipment, including four additional lenses and a drone. Or you can remove the padded inserts to make more room for your personal stuff—the bag can fit a 15-inch laptop. It also has smaller pockets to store your wallet and SD cards, as well as outside mesh pockets for water bottles. Meanwhile, you can clip a tripod to the back or tuck it in a special side pocket.  

Best camera battery charger: DigiPower Universal Li-ion Battery Charger 

SEE IT

While new cameras come with a charger, universal chargers can be useful photography accessories because they provide additional charging options, and perhaps more portable charging options. At 9.75 x 2 x 5.5 inches and with a foldable plug, this DigiPower will fit in your pocket. Compatible with brands including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Kodak, and Olympus, this battery charger also features a 5 Watt USB port so you can charge your smartphone at the same time, plus a 12V DC adapter for the car. 

Best tripod for beginners: TYCKA Rangers Travel Tripod 

SEE IT

A tripod is an important piece of photography equipment because it allows you to explore the full range of your camera. Not only does a tripod offer a steadier shot, but it lets you adjust important factors like shutter speed and framing while your camera is fixed in place. This aluminum travel tripod, with an included carrying case, is very portable, weighing just 2.88 pounds and measuring 14.17 inches long. Yet it’s strong enough to support 26.5 pounds of equipment. Its legs feature four segments with quick-release foldable locks to stretch the total height to 56 inches. Meanwhile, the central pole can be inverted to enable low-angle shooting. A ball joint provides 360 degrees of rotation, while a built-in level lets you know when you’re on uneven ground. 

Best portable printer: Canon Selphy CP1300 Compact Photo Printer 

SEE IT

Looking for creative photography gift ideas? A printer lets budding photographers put their creativity on full display. The Canon Selphy sticks it to the competition when it comes to photo quality, but at 5.4 x 7.1 x 2.5 inches, it’s bulkier than pocket-sized printers like the Fujifilm Instax. Users can connect their camera wirelessly, with a USB cord, or can print via a camera’s memory card. This birthday present is also ready for the party. The Selphy can print photo-booth pictures, and a Party Shuffle mode allows users to send pictures from multiple smartphones to print a collage.  

Best camera strap: Peak Design Leash Camera Strap 

SEE IT

A strap may not be the most exciting of birthday gifts for beginner photographers, but it’s definitely among the most useful gifts. The Peak Design leash strap features dual adjusters that let you change the length from 33 inches to 57 inches. The leash can also be configured as a sling, neck, or shoulder strap, giving whoever is using it the chance to find the right fit. Four anchor connectors can hold up to 200 pounds, and the strap boasts universal compatibility, including with brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fuji.  

Best SD card: Transcend 32 GB UHS-II Class 3 Memory Card

SEE IT

A memory card is another birthday gift for beginner photographers that won’t stir up much enthusiasm during the present-opening process, but it’s also one of those critical photography accessories. This 32GB device stores thousands of photos with a read speed of 285 megabytes per second. It also stores HD video at a read speed of 180MB/s. And like the moments the card is made to store, the card is built to last—it’s water, shock, and static proof.

Best online photography course for beginners: Beginners Start Here

The party is today, but you forgot to get a gift. No problem. Online courses make for great last minute gifts for someone looking to get into photography. Led by author and photographer Scott Kelby, the nine-segment “Beginners Start Here” course covers everything from camera settings to F-stops to lenses. The tone is welcoming and non-condescending. Unlock the course to help birthday boys and girls unlock their full photography potential. 

Best photo book: Understanding Exposure By Bryan Peterson

SEE IT

With more than a million copies sold, Understanding Exposure has helped photographers across the world capture great images. Explaining the basics of light, aperture, and shutter speed, renowned photographer Bryan Peterson cuts through the jargon and emphasizes how the right exposure can help you make the exact picture you had in your mind. No wonder it’s one of the most popular gifts you can find for photographers. Plus, for less than $20, it also makes for one of the better cheap gifts out there.   

Best reflector set: Neewer 5-in-1 Collapsible Light Reflectors

SEE IT

If you’re shopping for someone interested in portraits, reflectors make excellent cheap gifts. The Neewer set features five collapsible 43-inch discs that fit into a portable bag. Translucent, silver, gold, white, and black color options let photographers redirect light using the exact shade their picture demands.  

The final word on finding the best birthday gifts for beginner photographers 

Taking up photography is an exciting pursuit—but it can also be a daunting one considering the amount of equipment involved. After all, camera accessories range from bags to straps to memory cards to tripods. But by giving someone any of the best birthday gifts for beginner photographers, you’ll be setting them up for picture-perfect moments. 

Popular Photography wants to help you find the most useful and expert shopping recommendations for the best gift ideas. Searching for more unique gifts? Check out Birthday Gifts for Professional Photographers, the Best Gifts for Mom, or the Best Father’s Day Gifts.

The post Best birthday gifts for beginner photographers appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.