Best overall		Peak Design Travel Tripod		SEE IT	The Peak Design tripod folds down incredibly small to save you space when traveling.
Best for hiking		Manfrotto Befree Advanced		SEE IT	This lightweight tripod fits well in the side pocket of backpacks to easily bring on your hikes.
Best rugged		3Pod Everest T3		SEE IT	The 3Pod Everest T3 offers grips on the legs and comes with spike feet for traction on different surfaces.

Carbon fiber tripods offer several very tangible advantages over their metal counterparts. They are stiffer, stronger, and more durable than aluminum. Despite those things, they also weigh significantly less than aluminum, making them a popular choice for travel and landscape photography. Of course, they also will cost you more than an aluminum tripod, but for many, it is worth it. The best carbon fiber tripods will help you get stable shots while making it easier to bring a tripod along.

• Best overall: Peak Design Travel Tripod
• Best for hiking: Manfrotto Befree Advanced
• Best rugged: 3Pod Everest T3
• Best for versatility: Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4
• Best for landscape photography: 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0
• Best heavy-duty: Gitzo GT5533S Systematic Series 5
• Best budget: Neewer Carbon Fiber

How we chose the best carbon fiber tripods

The writers and editors at Pop Photo have decades of photography experience across the full spectrum of photographic genres and equipment. We’ve used our fair share of tripods in a wide variety of situations, from cheap plastic and heavy aluminum to more advanced carbon fiber models.

When selecting the carbon fiber tripods on this list, we aimed to choose options suitable for different pursuits, from travel to studio work. And while carbon fiber tripods are pricier than aluminum, we looked for products at various price points to suit different budgets. In addition, durability, sturdiness, and ease of use were all part of our decision-making process. Lastly, though tripods aren’t exactly feature-rich, we looked for options with enough features to make them versatile and usable in different–even challenging–situations.

The best carbon fiber tripods: Reviews & Recommendations

There is certainly no shortage of carbon fiber tripods available. Below you’ll find our favorite options for a variety of situations and use cases, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

Best overall: Peak Design Travel Tripod

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Why it made the cut: Peak Design’s Travel Tripod weighs only 2.8 pounds and folds down to the width of a water bottle while still being able to support up to 20 pounds.

Specs

• Maximum height: 60 inches
• Minimum height: 5.5 inches
• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Weight capacity: 20 pounds
• Folded length: 15.5 inches

Pros

• Includes a ball head
• Compact and lightweight
• Good height range
• Excellent strength-to-weight ratio

Cons

• Expensive
• Only two leg angles

Originally released through a Kickstarter campaign in 2019, the Peak Design Travel Tripod made waves thanks to the unique leg design. When folded down, it is just 15.5 inches tall and about the diameter of a water bottle. That makes it very easy to throw in a backpack‘s side pocket instead of fumbling with attachment points and straps.

The five-section legs can all be deployed at once with the aluminum lever locks to save time–and to look really dramatic. It can support up to 20 pounds and is very sturdy, considering its small size. The included ball head is minimal and aids in the tripod’s compact design. Instead of levers and knobs like normal tripod heads, there are simple locking and adjustment rings.

The Peak Design carbon fiber tripod can extend to 60 inches with the center column or 51.25 inches without that extended. For low angles, the center column reverses and hangs underneath the legs. There is also a removable hook on the center column, so you can easily hang weight to add stability. And this tripod comes with a slick travel bag, mobile mount, and hex wrenches. The mobile mount is a nice touch and makes this tripod excellent for all sorts of creators.

Best for hiking: Manfrotto Befree Advanced

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Why it made the cut: Its lightweight form factor but very adjustable height and 20-pound weight capacity make this a great option to take backpacking. 

Specs

• Maximum height: 59.1 inches
• Minimum height: 16 inches
• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Weight capacity: 19.8 pounds
• Folded length: 16.1 inches

Pros

• Includes a ball head
• Lightweight and compact
• Three leg positions
• Well-designed twist lock legs

Cons

• Center column doesn’t move as smooth as the legs

Manfrotto’s Befree line has been a popular choice for travel and adventure photographers for years. The Advanced version brings a higher weight capacity to the line, able to support nearly 20 pounds. It weighs the same amount as the Peak Design tripod mentioned above, though it is slightly larger when folded down. However, it still fits nicely into a side water bottle pocket on a hiking backpack. And the extra space between the legs makes it easier to secure with a strap for peace of mind while hiking.

The Befree Advanced tripod comes with a ball head, or you can also get it with a fluid head if you need smoother movements for shooting video. The ball head offers 360 degrees of swivel and can tilt 90 degrees for portrait orientation as well. It’s easily controlled via the large knob, even if you have gloves on. The center dial in the control knob allows you to adjust the tension and get more precise positioning. 

The legs are made up of four sections and are locked into place using twist locks. Unlike other tripods I’ve used, the leg sections don’t automatically extend when untwisting the locks, which is good and bad. It takes a little more time to set up but is less of a pain when putting the tripod away or if you forget to lock one down all the way. The legs lock at three different angles, giving you lots of flexibility. 

Best rugged: 3Pod Everest T3

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Why it made the cut: As the name suggests, the Everest T3 is built for harsh conditions. It is cold weather resistant, features CNC machined dust-proof construction, offers anti-corrosion faces, and comes with spiked feet for better traction.

Specs

• Maximum working height: 64.17 inches
• Minimum working height: 13.4 inches
• Weight: 3.2 pounds (without ball head)
• Weight capacity: 33 pounds
• Folded length: 19.7 inches

Pros

• Sturdy, heavy-duty build
• Built for harsh environments
• Comes with spiked feet for added grip
• Available with or without a ball head

Cons

• A bit bulky

Photography can take us to some wild, rugged places. The 3Pod Everest T3 is up for the challenge, thanks to a seriously rugged build. 3Pod made this tripod with CNC precision for a dust-proof design. It’s also cold weather resistant, meaning the joints will keep moving even in extreme cold. The grippy material on two of the legs makes it easier and more comfortable to hold in the cold, even if you have gloves on.

The legs of the Everest use a twist lock design for quick assembly and breakdown. It comes with 3Pod’s H4 ball head (or you can opt for a version without a head) and Arca-Type quick-release plate. The ball rotates very smoothly with just enough resistance. Two bubble levels help you ensure your shots are level in-camera. This carbon fiber tripod can extend to 5.3 feet with the center column extended or 4.4 feet without the extra extension when you need extra sturdiness. Should you need a low-angle shot, you can remove the center column to get shots as low as 13.4 inches. You can invert the center column for creative angles as well.

The main downside to the Everest T3 is that it’s a fairly bulky tripod. It weighs 3.2 pounds and is pretty long, even when folded down. But, the heavy-duty design results in a 33-pound weight capacity. Should you want something more robust, 3Pod also makes a larger version—the Everest T5—which offers a 55-pound load capacity and 6.6-foot maximum height.

Even more carbon fiber tripods to consider

If one of the three above doesn’t tick all the boxes for you, check out these additional options.

Best for versatility: Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4

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Why it made the cut: This versatile Manfrotto tripod can go from 3.5 inches to 66.9 inches, thanks to the angle selectors on the legs and sturdy center column. Plus, it has a convenient attachment point for arms to hold accessories like reflectors.

Specs

• Maximum height: 66.9 inches
• Minimum height: 3.5 inches
• Weight: 4.6 pounds
• Weight capacity: 19.8 pounds
• Folded length: 21.3 inches

Pros

• Ample height range
• Sturdy and durable
• Center column bends 90 degrees
• Includes attachment point for accessories

Cons

• Tripod head must be purchased separately

Manfrotto has long been one of the top tripod producers. Its MT055CXPRO4 is an extremely popular tripod, and for good reason. At  4.6 pounds, it weighs a bit more than some of the other models on this list. But it is very sturdy and supports nearly 20 pounds, which is more than enough for a full-frame camera and hefty telephoto.

Each leg features Manfrotto’s Quick Power Locks (a type of lever lock), which are easy to use but extremely sturdy. The legs can be set to multiple angles, allowing you to set the tripod as low as 3.5 inches. You’ll be able to get some really dramatic and unique angles for landscapes while still getting stability from a tripod.

With the center column extended, you’ll get 66.9 inches of height. Manfrotto redesigned the center column on this carbon fiber tripod to enable one-finger operation, so you’ll be able to raise it with much less fuss. And the center column can bend 90 degrees for better versatility or more unique angles. There is an Easy Link attachment point for adding accessories like a LED light or reflector with a compatible arm.

At the top of the tripod is a bubble level that swivels 360 degrees so you can see it no matter how you have your tripod set up. But, you will need to purchase a head for this tripod separately. For most people, we’d suggest Manfrotto’s XPRO Ball Head.

Best for landscape photography: 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0

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Why it made the cut: It can hold up to 66 pounds, so even if you use a large camera and bulky lens, you won’t have to worry about stability. And yet, the tripod only weighs 4.8 pounds, so it will still be feasible to pack on a trip.

Specs

• Maximum height: 54.3 inches
• Minimum height: 4.9 inches
• Weight: 4.8 pounds
• Weight capacity: 66 pounds
• Folded length: 14.7 inches

Pros

• Heavy weight capacity
• Good height range
• Lightweight and compact
• Highly modifiable

Cons

• Not as tall as other options

3 Legged Thing is a small British company that was launched in 2010. The Leo 2.0 has a surprising weight capacity, supporting up to 66 pounds. So even if you use a large DSLR or medium format camera with a heavy lens, this tripod will be able to handle it. And yet, the tripod only weighs 4.8 pounds with the head attached, which is only slightly heavier than the Manfrotto 055. 

One of the best things about the Leo carbon fiber tripod is that it is very modifiable. Each leg can be removed and acts as a monopod. The center column can either be removed entirely or inverted to get lower to the ground. And you can purchase tripod feet for better stability on different types of surfaces.

This tripod comes with a carrying case and also the 3 Legged Thing Toolz multi-tool for adjusting various parts of the tripod. It can’t extend quite as high as other options, but the ability to modify it so much and the large weight capacity are huge benefits. 

Best heavy-duty: Gitzo GT5533S Systematic Series 5

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Why it made the cut: The Gitzo Systematic Series 5 holds a whopping 88 pounds, making it the ideal choice for those shooting with large cameras and lenses.

Specs

• Maximum working height: 52.8 inches
• Minimum working height: 3.9 inches
• Weight: 6.2 pounds 
• Weight capacity: 88 pounds
• Folded length: 24.4 inches

Pros

• Very heavy duty
• Available in different heights and configurations
• Exceptionally sturdy
• Feet are articulating for better stability

Cons

• Center column or head must be purchased separately

If the 3 Legged Thing doesn’t provide enough stability for you, the Gitzo Systematic Series 5 will. It supports up to 88 pounds, which is ideal for those using large lenses or cameras. Even if you use a large format camera, you’ll get enough support from this carbon fiber tripod. Even when the legs’ three sections are extended, the tripod is extremely sturdy with limited flex.

The Systematic Series is unique in that they do not include center columns, unlike other tripods. Center columns are not very sturdy when extended, so it makes sense to leave that out if you want the most stability. It does, of course, limit the height you can get from the tripod, but luckily Gitzo makes different heights in this line. 

Like the 3 Legged Thing, Gitzo sells lots of accessories compatible with this tripod line. For example, should you want a center column, you can add a compatible one, as found on Gitzo’s website. You’ll also need to purchase a tripod head if you want more than the flat top plate. And there are also alternative types of feet available for better stability on different surfaces. 

Best budget: Neewer 66 Inch Carbon Fiber Tripod

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Why it made the cut: At a much more affordable price, this budget carbon fiber tripod still offers support for up to 26.5 pounds and can convert into a monopod.

Specs

• Maximum height: 66 inches
• Minimum height: 23.2 inches
• Weight: 3.40 pounds
• Weight capacity: 26.5 pounds
• Folded length: 19.3 inches

Pros

• Can be broken down into a monopod
• Affordable
• Comes with a ball head
• Center column can be inverted

Cons

• Does not go very low
• Not as durable as other options

Neewar is fairly well known for its affordable lighting and accessories. Like its other gear, its carbon fiber tripod is much more affordable than other brands but still offers a good amount of quality and features. Unlike more expensive options, it comes with a ball head, so you don’t need to purchase it separately. 

It supports up to 26.5 pounds, so even somewhat heavy cameras and lenses will work. And it only weighs 3.4 pounds, so it won’t be too much trouble to pack with you on trips. You can break it down into a monopod, so it is multifunctional. And the center column can be inverted if you want low to the ground shots. The legs have three sections and are controlled via twist locks.

Of course, with the budget price comes some downsides, though they are luckily minor. The included ball head isn’t all that stable, so you may want to invest in a better tripod head if you will be pushing the weight limit of this tripod. And some have had issues with pieces breaking after not all that much use. It may not last as long as more expensive options, but if you want to get started with a tripod without breaking the bank, this still is a great option.

Things to consider before buying the best carbon fiber tripods

Tripods, in general, aren’t exactly feature-packed, as they are pretty basic, straightforward pieces of equipment. But, that said, there are still some vital things to pay attention to before purchasing to ensure that it will fit your needs and work with your camera setup. 

Weight

Though carbon fiber tripods weigh less than their aluminum counterparts, their weight still varies across different brands and models. And while you may assume you need to find the lightest option, that won’t always be the best. Lightweight tripods lose stability unless you add weight to them. That could be via sandbags or a backpack hung from the center column. Without added weight, the tripod may be prone to getting blown over by strong winds or tipped over if bumped. So, if you are looking for a sturdy option and don’t want to fuss with adding weight, go with a heavier tripod.

On the flip side, if you travel or like to have a tripod while hiking, be sure to go with a lightweight option. Tripods are never all that convenient to carry along, but if it weighs a lot, you definitely won’t want to bring it along. 

Capacity

Beyond the weight of the tripod itself, tripods will be able to support different sizes of cameras and lenses. For example, some tripods are only suitable for lightweight mirrorless setups with small lenses, whereas others can hold heavy medium-format cameras. 

Before purchasing a tripod, be sure to do a rough calculation of what your heaviest setup will be. Look up the weight of your camera and largest lens to ensure that the tripod and tripod head you are considering is able to support that much weight.

Maximum and minimum height

All tripods will be able to extend only so far. Some will be able to go quite high with the help of a center column, while others won’t go beyond eye level, if that. If you like to get serious height with your tripod for unique perspectives, be sure to look for a tripod with a tall maximum height. 

On the other side, some tripods can’t go lower than the closed length of the tripod. Some, however, allow you to bend the legs out, resulting in the camera sitting very low, sometimes just inches off the ground. This ability is ideal for landscape photographers who want dramatic angles or like to focus on things in the foreground. If you want more flexibility with angles, be sure to look for a tripod that can get low as well as high.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best carbon fiber tripods

• Best overall: Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4
• Best for travel: Peak Design Travel Tripod
• Best for hiking: Manfrotto Befree Advanced
• Best for landscape photography: 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0
• Best heavy-duty: Gitzo GT5533S Systematic Series 5
• Best for height: 3Pod Everest T3
• Best budget: Neewer Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber tripods are not cheap pieces of gear, especially good ones. They are an investment, to be sure. But for a bit of equipment that can keep your camera safe and potentially improve your images, it is worth spending a bit more to ensure you have a reliable tripod that will last for years.

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 carbon fiber tripods for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Photography.

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

Best overall		Lume Cube Ring Light Pro		SEE IT	This kit comes with an 18-inch dimmable LED ring light with a remote and multiple mounting options.
Best for makeup videos		Lume Cube Ring Light Mini		SEE IT	This 12-inch ring light is ideal for makeup tutorials and closer portraits.
Best budget		MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring		SEE IT	This budget-friendly model comes with a dimmable LED light and adjustable stand and works with a smartphone.

LED ring lights were once considered a very specialized piece of lighting equipment for photographers. But these days, a ring light is a popular tool for vloggers, makeup artists, TikTok stars, and video calls. An LED ring light delivers flattering, shadow-free lighting and striking circular catchlights in the eyes. This style of light is a great way to enhance the quality of light in a room and make you look your best. They come in a variety of sizes, suitable for a range of applications. A large ring light is incredibly versatile, and many come with an accessory to clip your phone into the center. On the other hand, a mini clip-on ring light is best suited for grabbing well-lit footage on the go or clipping onto your laptop before a video call. Here’s how to find the best LED ring lights for you.

• Best overall: Lume Cube Ring Light Pro
• Best multipurpose: Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit
• Best clip-on: Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit
• Best for phones: QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light
• Best for makeup videos: Lume Cube Ring Light Mini
• Best budget: MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring

How we chose the best LED ring lights

When selecting the best LED ring lights, we considered a range of factors. Build quality was one of our primary considerations, as you want a light—and stand if it comes with one—that will last you a long time. Second, we evaluated brightness, dimming options, temperature options, colors available, and size. We selected lights with a range of power sources since some may prefer to use the light on the go as opposed to being tethered in the studio. Finally, we looked at the accessories included with each light, which have the potential to make them more convenient to use.

The best LED ring lights: Reviews & Recommendations

Ideal lighting doesn’t always exist when you need to take photos or videos. LED ring lights are a great way to create your own perfect light, enabling you to take beautiful photos or videos whenever you need or want to. The lights below are suitable for just about everyone, whether you are a smartphone vlogger or a professional studio photographer. 

Best overall: Lume Cube Ring Light Pro

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3200 – 5600K
• Dimming: 0 – 100%
• Brightness: 1700 Lux at 1.6 feet
• Power source: AC Adapter or built-in battery
• Diameter: 17 inches
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Produces soft, even light with built-in diffusion
• Powered by AC adapter or built-in battery
• Very bright with adjustable temperature and brightness
• Can also charge accessories while you use the light
• 70 minutes of battery life at full power

Cons

• Expensive

The Lume Cube Ring Light Pro earns the top spot thanks to its versatility and high-quality design. It features 256 bi-color LEDs capable of putting out 1700 lux at 1.6 feet. You can easily dim the light or adjust the temperature to your needs. The light offers a 96+ CRI output, resulting in accurate skin tones. It’s an ideal choice for fashion photographers, hair stylists, or makeup artists as a result. Thanks to the edge-lit technology, it produces soft, even light. 

One of the best features of the Ring Light Pro is that you can run it off of the included AC adapter or via the built-in battery. That means you can use the light in places where you don’t have access to an outlet. And there’s no need to keep track of separate batteries like you do with other ring lights. Plus, there are two USB ports on the side that you can use to charge accessories and devices if you need to. 

The Ring Light Pro comes with a sturdy stand that is adjustable from 18 to 70 inches. It includes a phone mount, or you can use your camera via the standard tripod thread. Lume Cube also included a remote, so you don’t have to run back and forth to the light to make adjustments. This Lume Cube option is a pricey one, but if you want a multipurpose LED ring light with plenty of features and quality, it’s the best option available. 

Best multipurpose: Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3200 – 5600K (+/- 300K)
• Dimming: 0 – 100% (stepped)
• Brightness: 
• Power source: AC adapter or two Sony L-Series / NP-F batteries
• Diameter: 18 inches
• Weight: 1.7 pounds

Pros

• Can be powered by batteries or AC adapter
• Comes with lots of accessories
• Adjustable temperature and brightness
• Comes with a travel case

Cons

• Included stand isn’t very sturdy

If you don’t want to spend quite as much as the Lume Cube light above but still want a versatile, multipurpose LED ring light, the Westcott Bi-Color light is your next best option. Wescott has a long-standing reputation for creating high-quality lighting products, and its ring light is no different. 

This Wescott ring light produces soft, even, and attractive light. It offers the same range of temperature adjustment, though in 300K increments. The brightness is also adjustable from zero to 100 percent. Westcott promises a CRI/TLCI rating of 97, meaning it is very color-accurate, an important feature for portraiture. 

You can either rely on an outlet for power or utilize the two included NP-F750 batteries for on-location shoots. It comes with a light stand that extends to 6.5 feet, so you’ll be able to work with some tall models. There’s also a gooseneck arm, swivel mount, and mobile device mount, giving you plenty of options for connecting a camera or accessories. And everything packs into a handy travel case to keep you organized.

Best clip-on: Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3200K, 4500K, or 6500K (3 levels of adjustment)
• Dimming: 0-100% (5 levels of adjustment)
• Brightness: 10W
• Power source: USB
• Diameter: 5.12 inches
• Weight: 10.2 ounces

Pros

• Very affordable
• Easy to use
• Compatible with most laptops and monitors
• Tiny and portable

Cons

• Limited brightness and temperature adjustments

Many of us spend countless hours in remote meetings, in office spaces that aren’t very well-lit. This Cyezcor clip-on ring light is great for those long hours spent in video chats or Zoom meetings. It clips onto the top of your laptop or monitor and provides flattering, even light so that your colleagues can see you clearly. The built-in clip features a ball joining so that you can get the angle of the light just right. Just don’t forget a quality webcam if you really want to up your game. 

The clip-on light offers three color temperatures (white light, warm light, and natural light). It also provides five levels of brightness and up to 10W of brightness from the 48 LED lamp beads. It’s USB-powered, which makes it very portable since you can simply plug it into your laptop or a power bank. It’s not the fanciest light out there, but it’s an affordable, straightforward option for illuminating your work meetings or live streams. 

Best portable: QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light

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Specs

• Color temperature: 5600K
• Dimming: 3 Levels (low, normal, high)
• Brightness: Not provided
• Power source: Two AAA batteries
• Diameter: 3.5 inches
• Weight: 1.5 ounces

Pros

• Very compact and portable
• Easily clips onto a phone or other devices
• Three brightness levels
• Affordable

Cons

• No temperature adjustment

If you exclusively use your phone for creating content, you don’t necessarily need a giant ring light. This portable battery-powered LED ring light features 36 bulbs to deliver flattering light for photo or video capture. It clips to the top of your phone, laptop, or tablet using a soft, sponge-gel clip. The soft clip ensures it won’t scratch your phone as you film videos for TikTok or YouTube, host live streams, or capture beautiful, evenly lit selfies.

This mini LED ring light can be set to low, normal, or high brightness. You’ll simply need two AAA batteries for power, meaning you don’t have to fuss with cables. It’s small enough to throw in your pocket or purse, so you can keep it on you when you’re on the go. And you can even use it as a reading light or run with it for safety purposes, adding to its versatility. It’s a basic ring light with no temperature adjustment, but for around $12, it’s a fantastic option.

Best for makeup videos: Lume Cube Ring Light Mini

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Specs

• Color temperature: 2700K – 7500K 
• Dimming: 0 – 100%
• Brightness: 960 Lux at 1.6 feet
• Power source: USB-C
• Diameter: 12 inches
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Comes with two mounting options
• USB-C powered 
• Brightness is adjustable in 1 percent increments
• Produces bright, soft, and even light

Cons

• Doesn’t include a case
• No cordless option

Makeup artists will appreciate the smaller diameter of the Lume Cube Ring Light Mini. The 12-inch size is an ideal option for the headshot range that makeup tutorials utilize, as it doesn’t overpower the subject or take up too much room. It is USB-C powered and comes with a 6.5-foot cable so that you can plug it into a power block or device. That means you’ll always have a cable around, but you can use a portable battery pack for on-location shoots. 

As with the other Lume Cube light, it utilizes edge-lit technology and built-in diffusion for soft, even light. And it provides 960 lux at 1.7 feet, which is plenty bright for makeup videos. The brightness is adjustable in one percent increments and you can adjust the temperature from 2700K to 7500K. You’ll be able to really dial in the look and feel of your light to fit your needs and balance any other light in the room.

This small but mighty LED ring light comes with two mounting options. You’ll get a desk clam for sturdy mounting on a table or desk. It also includes an aluminum tripod base so that you can use it on any flat surface for quick setup and breakdown. Both stands offer 180 degrees of tilt for capturing your tools and workstation as well. And the light comes with a rotating smartphone mount, so you can take portrait or landscape photos and videos.

Best budget: MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3200K  -5600K (3 levels of adjustment)
• Dimming: 1 – 100% (10 levels of adjustment)
• Brightness: Not provided
• Power source: AC power adapter
• Diameter: 14 inches
• Weight: 3.89 pounds

Pros

• Included stand adjusts from 15 to 60 inches
• Includes a Bluetooth remote with 32-foot range
• Phone mount is flexible
• Adjustable brightness and temperature

Cons

• AC power cord is a little short
• No battery power option

This dimmable 14-inch LED ring light is a great choice if you are looking for a full-sized model but are also on a budget. The dimming range is between one to 100 percent with ten levels of adjustment. And it offers three levels of color temperature from 3200K to 5600K.

This budget LED ring light comes with a stand that can extend from 15 to 60 inches. The included smartphone mount utilizes a flexible hose with a ball head so that you can fine-tune your shooting angle. There is no way to attach a DSLR or mirrorless camera, however, so you’ll need to set up a separate tripod or shoot handheld if you prefer to use one of those. It also includes a Bluetooth remote with a 32-foot range, a surprising feature for such a budget-friendly option. 

What to consider when shopping for the best LED ring lights

Ring lights are overall simple devices with fairly limited features. That said, it’s important that you consider how and where you intend to use the light before making your purchase. Below are some factors that are important when deciding which option is best for you.

Size

LED ring lights come in a variety of sizes that are suitable for different applications. Large 18-inch ring lights are great for shooting portraits, photographing products, or capturing tiny details for macro photography. Most of these ring lights have a place to mount a camera along with your smartphone inside the center of the ring light to create a nice shadow-free even light on your subject. 

If you are planning to use a ring light for video conferencing or closer portraits, a smaller diameter ring light with a small tripod stand or a clip for your laptop will likely do the trick. LED ring lights with smaller diameters typically cost less money too. If you are looking to create makeup videos, selfies, or content for TikTok, a small portable model will serve you well.

Dimming abilities

The ability to dim your ring light is crucial to getting the best light for a range of situations. There are times that full-blast light will be overkill, creating unattractive light on your subject. As a result, be sure to look for a model that allows at least some level of brightness adjustment. If you want full control, look for an option that is dimmable from zero to 100 percent with stepless adjustment. 

Mounting options & device support

Most LED ring lights will come with some sort of stand to hold the light. Usually, that takes the form of a traditional tripod-style light stand. Some may come with clamps to attach the light to a tabletop or a short tripod ideal for working at a desk. Small lights typically clip directly to your monitor, laptop, or phone. No matter what, be sure to verify that the light comes with a stand compatible with how you intend to use it.

Your light will also need to be able to hold the device you plan on using for taking images or videos. While you certainly can hand-hold your camera, it will be much easier to get good results with even light if your device is mounted inside the light. If you plan on using a camera, look for a ring light that offers a tripod mount and can support the weight of your camera. If you will be using your mobile device, focus on a ring light that comes with a phone mount instead. 

Power source

Ring lights rely on various types of power sources. Some require an AC adapter and outlet, while others receive power via USB-C cables. There are also lights that do away with cords entirely and use batteries—either built-in or removable. If you plan on using your LED ring light exclusively in a studio or office environment, you may be able to save some money by opting for a device that requires a corded power method. However, if you want to take the light with you on location, look for a battery-powered light. Built-in batteries are more ideal than removable ones, as it’s one less thing to keep track of. But it also costs more, so there is a tradeoff. 

Remote

When you’re vlogging, making Tiktoks, or conducting a self-styled photoshoot, you’re not going to want to keep walking back and forth to adjust the settings of your light. A remote is a handy way of controlling the light without all the work, simplifying your shoot. Not all LED ring lights come with a remote, though, so be sure to look closely to verify it is remote-compatible if that’s important to you. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best LED ring lights

• Best overall: Lume Cube Ring Light Pro
• Best multipurpose: Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit
• Best clip-on: Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit
• Best for phones: QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light
• Best for makeup videos: Lume Cube Ring Light Mini
• Best budget: MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring

An LED ring light is a powerful, easy-to-use tool for photographers and videographers. A larger diameter ring light will be more expensive than the mini ones but a far more versatile tool. Most large ring lights include an accessory for your smartphone, some Bluetooth capabilities, and are dimmable or allow you to control color. A larger diameter ring light is also a great tool for shooting portraits in the studio. If you are looking for a ring light for video chatting or creating content primarily for TikTok, a smaller clip-on LED ring light will likely do the trick. Regardless of the size, the best LED ring lights will provide even, shadow-free light to make sure that you look your best in front of the camera.

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 LED ring lights 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		Rotolight Neo 3		SEE IT	A versatile LED panel that doubles as an action-freezing flash.
Best for artists		Lume Cube Flex Light Pro		SEE IT	You get two LED light panels in one with this light.
Best for video		Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light		SEE IT	A great light for video shoots thanks to the 18 special effects and RGB color options.

LED light panels can help you create interesting, depth-creating light where it doesn’t exist. That’s crucial because having a great camera is just one part of the equation. Without quality light, your images and videos will fall flat. Most LED panels offer constant light, meaning they are ideal for video applications or photographers who are new to lighting. They come in bicolor, temperature-adjustable formats, or RGB models that offer the full rainbow. Many are portable and camera-mountable, so you can bring them with you out into the wild. No matter what style you are looking for, the best LED light panels put the power of an adjustable sun in your creative hands. 

• Best overall: Rotolight Neo 3
• Best for artists: Lume Cube Flex Light Pro 
• Best for Zoom hosts: VILTROX L116T Key Light LED Video Light
• Best for video: Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light
• Best for YouTubers: Lume Cube Panel Mini
• Best budget: EMART LED Video Light

The best LED light panels: Reviews & Recommendations

The best LED light panel transforms boring images and videos into dynamic works of art. With a budget in mind, look for options that fit your style and environment. Will you only be using the LED light panel indoors? Will you be using it on top of a camera or phone? Do you need multiple lights? Do you want to change the light color? Is portability a factor? Browse the best LED light panels below and find the illumination that works for you. 

Best overall: Rotolight Neo 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3,000-10,000K
• Dimming: Yes
• Lux: 4,541 Lux at 3.3 feet
• Color accuracy: TLCI 99, CRI 95
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 5.7 x 2
• Weight: 12.8 ounces

Pros

• Provides constant light and flash modes
• Compact and lightweight for use on camera
• Comes with a rechargeable battery
• Able to produce 16.7 million colors

Cons

• Expensive

Perhaps the most versatile LED panel around, the Rotolight NEO 3 is an ideal choice for hybrid shooters. Videographers and vloggers will appreciate the steady stream of constant light at 5,443 lux at 3.3 feet. Photographers can use the light to sync with a camera’s flash system to provide super-fast bursts of light for freezing action mid-movement. In fact, it can sync up to 1/8,000 second with no recycle time, enabling fast burst shooting without loss of light quality. Typical LED panels can’t do that. 

The Rotolight NEO 3 offers full RGB lighting with 16.7 million colors. The range of colors can be used in both constant and flash modes, adding to its versatility. You’ll be able to use this one light as a key, fill, or colored accent. And perhaps more importantly, it provides highly accurate color, with a TLCI rating of 99. It can function on or off-camera thanks to built-in wireless support, though you’ll need to buy wireless transmitters separately.

The back of the light features plenty of controls for easy use. There are two physical knobs along with a color touchscreen. You can save presets to quickly go back to your favorite modes, and there are special effects settings such as lightning and fire. The mobile app adds even more flexibility and control, including the ability to use multiple lights at the same time. It weighs just over a pound, and you can mount it to a light stand, handle, or other grip for easy maneuvering.  It’s not a cheap light, but it sure does give you a lot for the price.

Best for artists: Lume Cube Flex Light Pro 

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3,000-6,500K
• Dimming: Yes, 5-100%
• Lux: 1,800 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 96
• Power source: AC Power
• Dimensions: 13 x 2.25 (fixture panel)
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Two lights in one
• Comes with a light stand, phone holder, and case
• Easy to use
• High-quality and color-accurate light

Cons

• Arms don’t stay in position very well
• Requires a power source

The Lume Cube Flex Light Pro is a rather unique LED panel as it is two lights in one. The two-light setup is ideal for tattoo artists, painters, or any other creative who needs even light with no distracting shadows. As a constant light source, it’s also ideal for videographers or photographers who don’t want to deal with flash.

Lume Cube built this light with 128 high-quality LEDs per panel, providing a total of 2300 Lumens and 1800 lux at 1.6 feet. The built-in diffusion ensures even light with no hot spots or shadows. Both panels are mounted on 11-inch flexible arms so that you can adjust the angle and position of each light independently. It features adjustable brightness from 5 to 100 percent and automatically saves the settings from when you last shut it down. 

The Flex Light Pro features an LCD screen on the base of the light so that you can easily see and adjust your settings. It comes with a quality light stand that can extend to 70 inches. The kit also includes a gooseneck phone mount, so you can record hands-free. Additionally, you’ll get a power cable and a handy travel case to keep it all together.

Best for Zoom hosts: VILTROX L116T Key Light LED Video Light

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3,300-5,600k
• Dimming: Yes, 20-100%
• Lux: 810 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 95+
• Power source: Rechargeable battery (Li-battery NP-F550)
• Dimensions: 7.56 x 5.04 x 0.98 inches
• Weight: 9.17 ounces

Pros

• Comes with a hot shoe adapter for on-camera use
• Can be used with an AC adapter for continuous battery life
• Adjustable brightness and temperature
• Very compact and lightweight

Cons

• Not as bright as other panels

The Viltrox L116T is the best LED light panel for Zoom hosts or other live-streamers thanks to its simple design and settings and even light. You can easily adjust the color temperature (3,300K to 5,600K) and brightness (20 to 100 percent) from the rear control panel and LCD display. And once you’ve honed in on the right look, you can set it and forget it thanks to the automatic recall. 

The L116T provides 15W of light, with 810 lux at 1.6 feet. The soft light makes it ideal for a simple, single-light setup when the subject can stay relatively close to the light. It features a built-in diffuser for even light. This LED panel utilizes a rechargeable NF-F550 battery, which will only last a couple of hours. And it can take a while to charge. But you can buy an AC adapter separately if you want to ensure you don’t run out of battery power in the middle of your meeting or streaming session. 

Best for video: Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 2,500-8,500K
• Dimming: Yes, 1-100%
• Lux: 22,000 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 97+
• Power source: AC adapter (included) or NP-F batteries (not included)
• Dimensions: Not provided
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• 18 different special effects
• Compatible with a smartphone app for easy control
• Can sync to music
• Wide range of colors and brightness

Cons

• Batteries must be purchased separately
• Requires two NP-F batteries for full power

The Neewer RGB1200 is the best LED panel for videographers because of its robust set of options and features. You can adjust the color temperature from 2,500 to 8,500K and brightness as low as one percent to a full hundred percent. And it offers 18 different special effects, such as lightning, explosion, welding, and more. You can also sync the light to music, which changes the light based on pitch and volume, making it a fun tool for music videos. 

This light comes with barn doors attached and includes a diffuser, giving you more control over your light. The U-shaped bracket allows you to adjust the angle of the light a full 360 degrees. It makes a great LED panel for Etsy sellers and product photographers for these reasons. There are plenty of physical controls on the back of the light, but you can also use the Neewer app to remotely adjust settings and save your own presets. And you can sync multiple lights to the app if you need more than one light. 

The Neewer RGB1200 comes with an AC power adapter, but you can also use NP-F batteries. You’ll need to purchase them separately, though, and will need to for full power. It doesn’t come with a light stand, so you’ll need to pick one of those up for hands-free operation.

Best for YouTubers: Lume Cube Panel Mini

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Specs

• Color temperature: 3,200-5,600K
• Dimming: Yes, 1-100%
• Lux: 550 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 96
• Power source: Rechargeable battery (built-in)
• Dimensions: 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.5 inches
• Weight: 3.04 ounces

Pros

• Extremely tiny and portable
• Fully adjustable color temperature and brightness
• LCD screen for adjusting settings
• Built-in battery runs for 1.2 hours at full brightness

Cons

• Not as bright as other options

Lume Cube makes some of the best lights for vloggers, YouTubers, and video creators. The Panel Mini is the most affordable option from the lighting company, and it’s also one of the smallest. It is roughly the size of a credit card and weighs just over three ounces. That makes it very easy to keep on you when shooting on location or traveling. And it won’t add much weight to your camera, which is ideal if you are shooting handheld. 

The Panel Mini provides an adjustable temperature from 3,200 to 5,600K, and it offers a CRI rating of 96, so you can trust the color will be accurate. You can also adjust the brightness from one to 100 percent. This is a bicolor light, meaning you’ll only be able to adjust temperature and light strength. But for many, that’s ideal, especially as it keeps the cost down. If you do want the ability to change color while keeping the tiny size, the Lume Cube RGB Panel GO is another great option. 

This tiny LED panel offers 550 lux at 1.6 feet, which is less than the others on our list. As a result, it is best used in situations where the subject is fairly close to the camera, such as recording yourself at arm’s length or tabletop photography. It comes with a silicone diffuser for softening the light when you need to. The easy controls, small size, and minimal settings make this an ideal choice for beginners but also a fun tool for experienced pros. 

Best budget: EMART LED Video Light 

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 5,600K
• Dimming: Yes, 11 levels from 10-100%
• Lux: Not provided, 1,000 lumen
• Color accuracy: CRI 90+
• Power source: USB
• Dimensions: 5.51 x 3.74 x 54 inches (light stand included)
• Weight: 

Pros

• 11 brightness levels
• Comes with two lights and lots of accessories
• 180 degrees of angle adjustment

Cons

• Lifespan isn’t very long

If you’ve never used a lighting kit and want some practice before investing a lot of money, this inexpensive LED kit gives you plenty to get started. It comes with two LED panels, two stands that extend to 54 inches, and two mini tripods for tabletop use. Additionally, it includes four colored filters (white, red, orange, and blue) that allow you to experiment with light setups and play with creative lighting. 

They are very easy to use, making them great for creative kids. It offers 11 levels of brightness from 10 to 100 percent. They are powered via USB, so you can plug them into a computer in a pinch if you don’t have access to an outlet. The temperature is fixed to 5,600K, which some may not like. But it makes them extra simple to use. 

For less than $50, don’t expect high-quality materials and dependable manufacturing. This is a budget-priced lighting kit that’s more fun than functional. Some users have reported that they don’t last very long. But if you need some lights in a pinch to get started, these will do the job.

What to consider when shopping for the best LED light panels

For a long time, LED light panels were looked down on as inaccurate tools for amateurs. They couldn’t hold a candle (pun intended) to traditional strobes or studio fluorescents. But in the past decade, these mighty bright lights have made huge improvements in the art of long-lasting, great-looking illumination. Today’s portable LED powerhouses are professional-quality lights capable of shining stunning, precise light on all of your creative projects. 

Color temperature 

Some LED light panels offer a number of settings that you’ll have to dial in before you get shooting. You will need to adjust it to get the best effect for your location. That’s why you should look for LED light panels with easy, user-friendly adjustability.  

The first thing to consider when shopping for a light panel is color temperature. Measured in Kelvin, the color temperature is a number between 1,000 and 10,000 which describes the warmth of the light. For example, low-color temperature lights of 2,700K will produce orange and yellowish light like typical incandescent bulbs. Higher temperature lights of 5,000K produce more neutral light, closer to that of direct sunlight.  

The goal of the LED light panel is to match or balance the color temperature of the environment. If you’re taking photos inside and want a natural, cozy look, a lower color temperature works best. Some LED light panels can be adjusted to meet your needs with a variety of color options. 

Dimming

Another key adjustment you’ll want is brightness. You don’t always need a light at 100 percent power, as it could easily overwhelm the subject or scenario. Most LED light panels will offer some degree of built-in dimming. Some will only offer a limited range, and some may only offer incremental steps instead of smooth adjustability. If you want lots of control, look for a light that offers a wide range of dimming options. 

Bicolor & RGB

When shopping for LED light panels, you can choose between bicolor or RGB. Bicolor lights will only offer white light with adjustable temperature. These are usually cheaper and more straightforward to use. RGB lights, as you might guess by the name, offer many colors along with temperature-adjustable white. RGB-compatible lights will allow you to get really creative with your lighting, providing more room to play. They provide the ability to create those colorful backgrounds you see in so many YouTube videos or add color as a fill light to your studio portraits.

Power source

LED light panels come with different power source options. You’ll need to choose between a battery-powered device or one that requires you to keep it plugged into a power source. If you plan on doing lots of shooting outside or on location or want to use the LED light panel on your camera, a battery-powered device is best. But if you are using the light panel in a studio or office setting, you can get away with a corded option.

Some lights offer the ability to use both methods, though you’ll likely have to buy either a power adapter or battery separately. Be sure to look closely at the power source before purchasing so that you don’t end up with a corded light that you meant to use outside.

Color rendering index numbers

You may see a Color Rendering Index (CRI) number when shopping for LED light panels. CRI is not the same as color temperature. Confused? Even pros have trouble wrapping their brain around this one. While color temperature can tell you if the light will look like a sunny day or an orange indoor dining room, the CRI number tells you how accurately the color of an object will look. CRI is measured on a scale of 1 to 100. 

Sunlight has a CRI of 100 because the colors always look accurate. The higher the number, the better. Any light with a CRI above 90 will be great for photos and videos. And for LED lights, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a CRI number below 80. For that reason, don’t get hung up on this stat. Focus on color temperature. You’ll want a good range, between 3,200K degrees to 5,600K. 

Light size & modifiers

When it comes to controlling the hardness of your light, there are a few things you should consider. The light source’s size relative to the subject does a lot to dictate how hard the light looks. A larger light source creates softer light. But, even if you have a relatively small light source, you can put an umbrella or other light modifier over the light itself to make the source seem bigger. If you don’t want to fuss with a modifier, get a light with a bigger surface area.

You can also soften a light source by adding a diffuser. Some LED light panels come with their own right in the box. A diffuser typically consists of a translucent layer that scatters the light as it exits the panel. Because all the rays aren’t traveling in the same direction, some of them will fill in shadowy areas that otherwise may go too dark or harsh. 

Budget

Keep an eye on your budget, as some LED lighting kits can be very expensive. A simple LED light panel may cost no more than $30, but a full-blown, pro-level lighting kit with key light, backlight, and fill light can run over $2,000, which hurts if you’re on an indie budget. Unless you’re a professional portrait photographer or a high-end video shooter, there’s no need to clean out your bank account for LED light panels.

For making online videos, taking impressive Instagram pics, or hosting a live-streamed conference call, a set of two LED light panels should run less than $200 and will cover you in all the glorious light needed to make an impact. Prices escalate when you add more features and larger lights. But a low-priced table-top light panel will provide more than enough light for great-looking photos, videos, and jealousy-inducing social media posts.   

Number of lights

Most professional pics and videos are based on the three-point-lighting rule: A key light aimed at the subject, a fill light from the opposite angle to shine away any harsh shadows, and a backlight to make the subject pop out from the background. You may not need all three lights, but having at least two light panels will give you options to turn flat, dull pictures and videos into eye-catching images. 

Depending on the look you’re going for, you can ditch the backlight. This is the most subtle of the three lights and can be the most difficult to position. Using two soft lights in front of your subject will get the job done. And if you only have one LED light panel, position the soft light panel at a 45-degree angle from the subject for a dramatic look, or stick it right in front of your subject for the now popular YouTuber aesthetic. Bottom line: Experiment and have fun. Use however many lights you’ve got in your kit and try new setups to find dynamic looks. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best LED light panels

• Best overall: Rotolight Neo 3
• Best for artists: Lume Cube Flex Light Pro 
• Best for Zoom hosts: VILTROX L116T Key Light LED Video Light
• Best for video: Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light
• Best for YouTubers: Lume Cube Panel Mini
• Best budget: EMART LED Video Light

Give photos and videos the light they deserve with an LED light panel. These thin rectangles of light are powerful tools for every type of image capturing. Use them for live-streaming, taking pictures of cats, shooting a sci-fi epic in your backyard, or any other creative project on your list. Don’t let the numbers and stats intimidate you. With a basic understanding of color temperature, you’ll have enough know-how to pick and choose the best LED light panel for your needs.

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 LED light panels 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 flatbed scanner		Epson Perfection V600 flatbed scanner		SEE IT	The V600 offers excellent scan quality, including technology to remove dust and scratches.
Best professional		Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner		SEE IT	A large scanning area and more advanced features make this the pick for high-end users.
Best budget		Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner		SEE IT	The Slide N Scan scans several film types and connects directly to a laptop with a USB cord.

Film scanners help bring the magic of analog photography into the digital world. There’s a look and texture to film photography and video that their digital counterparts can’t capture. However, you can’t deny the ease of editing and sharing digital photos. Enter the film scanner, which converts film images to digital format. Film scanners aren’t just for photography either. There are also film scanners that convert 8 mm and Super 8 film into easily edited and shared MP4s. The best film scanners preserve the look and feel of the original film and make it easier to edit, share, and replicate your work. 

Film scanners come in different sizes, use different technologies, and may only work for certain types of film. Others work with several types of film as well as scan documents and printed photos. Consequently, your chosen film scanner will need to work for the type of film you use as well as offer the quality that works for your purposes. Professionals will need the manual control and versatility of a more expensive film scanner, while hobby photographers don’t need to make the same financial investment. Read on to get the lowdown on the best film scanners, along with tips to help you choose the best film scanner for you.  

• Best flatbed scanner: Epson Perfection V600
• Best negative scanner: Plustek OpticFilm 8300i Ai Film Scanner
• Best for digital video: Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner
• Best professional: Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner
• Best budget: Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner

How we chose the best film scanners

Since there are different types and sizes of film scanners, we aimed to choose a wide selection that would fit the needs of most people. Beyond that, we looked at features such as maximum resolution, supported formats, usability, durability, and speed. We also picked scanners at a range of price points in order to make film scanning more approachable.

The best film scanners: Reviews & Recommendations

Scanning your film not only allows you to share your results in the digital world but it also gives you a backup in case something damages your negatives. Here are our favorite film scanners for a range of users and applications.

Best flatbed scanner: Epson Perfection V600

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Specs

• Scanner type: Flatbed
• Resolution: Up to 6,400 dpi
• Formats supported: 35mm, mounted slides, 120 up to 6 x 22

Pros

• Relatively affordable
• Versatile since it can also scan prints and documents
• Quicker than some dedicated film scanners
• Included software is decent
• LED light source doesn’t need to warm up, uses less electricity than older models

Cons

• Film holders are a bit flimsy
• Loud

The Epson V600 features 6400dpi optical resolution that’s high enough for film and print scans. It works for 35mm film, 35mm slides, and medium format film and completes a scan in 21 seconds. That’s not the quickest scan speed, but it’s a great balance of speed and scan quality. This Epson also features Digital ICE Technology that removes dust and scratches for cleaner scans.

This is a great option if you’re shooting film semi-regularly, but you’d also like some flexibility. Take out the film holder and insert the opaque pad in order to make this into a useful print and document scanner.

The LED light source doesn’t need to warm up like older versions of these scanners. Plus, the included software makes scanning relatively simple if you don’t want to use something more complex like Silverfast or Vuescan (though, we’re particularly fond of Vuescan).

Best negative scanner: Plustek OpticFilm 8300i Ai Film Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Dedicated film scanner
• Resolution: Up to 7200 dpi
• Formats supported: 35mm strips and mounted slides

Pros

• Very sharp, vibrant scans
• Includes a copy of SilverFast Ai Studio which is expensive on its own
• Easy to line up and insert film
• Relatively automated process
• Built-in infrared channel for dust removal

Cons

• No medium format compatibility
• Pricey

The Plustek OpticFilm 8300i AI includes a 7200dpi optical resolution (although max resolution scans can take up to two minutes). This model is more specific in what it scans, which includes only 35mm film and 35mm mounted slides. However, the Plustek stands out for the included software, SilverFast 9 Ai studio. This software lets you preview, adjust settings, and share and organize files without connecting to additional programs. Most scanners of this type max out at 35mm film, but some more expensive models will accept medium format.

This is a more professional option for people who shoot a lot of 35mm. It comes with Silverfast software, which is very advanced and requires a bit of practice. With some work, though, it provides excellent sharpness, dynamic range, and color.

A built-in infrared channel makes this scanner considerably better at automatically removing dust and scratches than a typical scanner. Plus, it’s easy to insert the film into the surprisingly sturdy holders without having to fuss around like you would with a flat bed.

Best for digital video: Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Film strip
• Resolution: 720p
• Formats supported: 8 and Super 8

Pros

• Saves movies to removable media
• Easy to set up
• Relatively quick
• Can play back old film movies on a TV via HDMI

Cons

• Expensive if you only have a few films to convert

The Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner fits 8 mm and Super 8 reels up to 5 inches in diameter and converts them into MP4 format. The MP4s are saved onto a removable SD SDHC card (that’s not included with the scanner). The Wolverine can also connect to a TV using an HDMI cord for playback. The scanning and conversion process is fairly slow, but if you have a lot of film to convert, this model is far more affordable than having the scanning done professionally.

Best professional: Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Flatbed
• Resolution: Up to 6,400 dpi
• Formats supported: 35mm, mounted slides, 120, 4×5

Pros

• Large scanning area makes quick work of multiple frames
• Included film holders include anti-Newton ring glass for better resolution without artifacts
• Can scan up to 4×5 images, including a wet mount option (only in the 850, not the 800)
• Included software is passable
• Dedicated infrared channel for dust removal

Cons

• Loud
• Bulky

The Epson Perfection V850 comes with a high price tag, but that’s because it includes premium features and extras. It includes film holders for 35mm mounted slides, 35mm film, medium format strips, and 4 x 5 sheet film. You can also run the scanner without using one of the holders. This model features a dual-lens system that includes high-resolution and super high-resolution lenses and automatically adjusts them based on the scanning media and resolution selection.

This has been my primary film scanner for several years now, and I’ve learned its quirks. The film holders are decent but require some finagling to get the film to lay perfectly flat. The ANR glass in the holders helps keep them off of the scanner surface itself, which is nice, but curly film can be tricky to get settled.

The 800 and the 850 are both capable of large-format film scanning. I’ve used the 800 to scan 4×5 negatives with solid results. The 850 comes with a fluid-mounting kit that makes large-format scanning much more effective. It also takes a lot more work.

You’ll occasionally run into dust issues that create solid-colored lines across the images, but it’s easily fixed with a quick wipe of the glass. You’ll just have to scan the negatives again, which can be annoying.

Best budget: Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Negative scanner
• Resolution: 22 megapixels
• Formats supported: 35mm, 110, and 126

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Preview screen makes stand-alone scanning simple
• Relatively quick
• Quiet
• Stores images on removable media or sends straight to a computer

Cons

• Image quality is just OK
• Expect to do some tidying of the scans if your negatives aren’t meticulously clean

The Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner includes holders for 50 x 50 hinged slides, 135 film, 126 film, and 110 film. It can also scan 35mm negatives and slides. Scans go quickly, taking only a few seconds, and they’re transferred directly to a laptop or computer via a USB cord. You can make a few adjustments to the negatives, but this model won’t correct most problems, especially film damage that comes from age.

At less than $200, it doesn’t take many rolls of film to justify the price of this device when you compare it to many image-scanning services. It also works with unusual formats (at least for today), like 126 and 110. So, if you have particularly old film hanging around, this is a simple way to digitize.

Don’t expect meticulous scans. The quality is decent but nowhere near what you’d get out of a more advanced film scanner. You’re also on your own for cleaning up the negatives before scanning unless you want to spend a lot of time retouching out dust and other objects once the scan is done.

Still, you’d be hard-pressed to find a simpler, more convenient solution for scanning old photos.

What to consider when shopping for the best film scanners

Shooting film is exciting, and it provides a look that can’t quite be replicated with digital. But you’ll want to digitize those results with a scanner in order to share the images and to keep them safely backed up in case something happens to the negatives.

The best film scanners capture the light, shadows, and colors of the original film with accuracy and clarity. When choosing, you need to be cognizant of the type of film you intend to scan and what you plan to do with the scans. Film scanners come in one of three basic types—flatbed, dedicated film scanners (also known as transparency or slide scanners), and drum scanners. 

Drum scanners provide the best scan quality. However, they’re expensive, difficult to find, and the scanning process takes a long time. For that reason, they’re not on our list since, unless you’re looking to start your own professional film scanning business, this type isn’t economical or practical. For reference, they can cost well over $10,000.

Flatbed scanners (often) offer a versatile range of uses.

If you’ve ever seen a standard photo scanner, you’ll recognize a flatbed film scanner. These models feature a clear, glass bed with a lid. You lift the lid, place the film, and start scanning. Most typical flatbed scanners have a single light source that goes under the document. Flatbeds that scan film, however, have another light source in the lid to illuminate the negatives or slides. They work by passing light through the image, which then gets reflected back to the CCD image sensor. The CCD uses red, green, and blue filters like old-school digital cameras.

These models often can work with several different formats like 35mm, slides, or format film. You will have to adjust settings based on the type of film being scanned. However, the biggest perk of a flatbed scanner is that they’re usually multifunctional, scanning developed photos and documents for digital use, too. They are popular and versatile, but some can be difficult to use, requiring setting adjustments with each scan. 

Capture deeper darks and lighter lights with a negative scanner

Negative scanners, also called slide scanners, apply the same principles as flatbed scanners but with greater precision and focus. They use a narrow beam of light that passes through the film to better replicate light intensity and color differences. These models also feature a feed that moves frames through the scanner for you. How many frames the scanner holds varies by the make and model. 

The downside with this type is that the mechanism that moves the film through the scanner can potentially scratch the film if it’s not cleaned and carefully maintained. They’re also often slow and sometimes rely on finicky software.

Photo and slide negatives aren’t the only film in need of scanning

Gone are the days when you need a projector and video camera to convert your old reels into digital format. Film scanners designed for movie reels can now do it for you. These models convert 8mm and Super 8 film reels into digital videos, which can then be edited or shared. 

These machines feature a screen to watch the film in action before and during the recording process. Some models connect to a TV via HDMI for instant playback. Each machine only fits reels of certain sizes, so check to make sure that the reels you have are compatible with the ones you are looking at. While these machines do a great job of transferring visual media, they do not have the capability to record sound. If there’s audio with your movie, you’ll have to add that in using a program or app later on.

The professional needs photography equipment that can keep up with high demand

Professionals and photographers who regularly use film may want to invest in a film scanner with a few extras. Professional-grade scanners typically offer higher resolutions, multiple lenses for greater versatility, and software that expands what you can do while scanning and with the scans once they’re done. 

Professional-grade models also include film holders of different sizes to accommodate a wider range of film types.

Save your photos and cash with a budget film scanner that’s gentle on film. What do you get for a film scanner under $75?

Many film scanners require an upfront investment, though they’ll save money in the end if you’ve got a high volume of film to scan. However, hobby photographers may not need many of the fancy extras like dual lenses and multiple film holders. 

The biggest difference you’ll notice between these scanners and more expensive models is the scan quality. Budget models may fit several film types, but they typically scan slower and offer lower resolutions with minimal correction options. They’re best for preserving film that won’t come under professional scrutiny.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best film scanners

• Best flatbed scanner: Epson Perfection V600
• Best negative scanner: Plustek OpticFilm 8300i Ai Film Scanner
• Best for digital video: Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner
• Best professional: Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner
• Best budget: Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner

The best film scanner can take what’s old and make it new. They can also give you the power to easily edit and share the results of your current film work. Determine a budget and the scan quality that fits your goals. Whether that’s a slide scanner or flatbed will depend on the type of film you use and what you plan to do with your film once it’s in a digital format. But, the right film scanner can become a go-to among your camera equipment, saving money and giving you the ability to share your work with the world. 

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 film scanners 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		Manfrotto XPRO Ball Head		SEE IT	With durable materials and a large load capacity, this Manfrotto ball head is the best for most.
Best for heavy equipment		3 Legged Thing AirHed Pro Ball Head		SEE IT	This 3 Legged Thing tripod ball head can hold up to 88 pounds.
Best budget		SmallRig Tripod Ball Head		SEE IT	This affordable option will keep your lightweight gear steady.

Tripod ball heads offer a compact way to stabilize your camera when shooting long exposures in nature, photographing products in the studio, or filming video. As the name suggests, ball heads rely on a spherical element secured in a cradle. Loosening a screw or nut releases pressure on the ball and allows it to move freely. Tightening it up locks the mechanism in place. We curated this list of the best tripod ball heads for any type of photography or video shooting.

• Best overall: Manfrotto XPRO Ball Head
• Best for heavy equipment:  3 Legged Thing AirHed Pro Ball Head
• Best value for heavy gear: Vanguard Alta BH-300 Ball Head
• Best for lightweight cameras: Benro IB0 Triple Action Ball Head
• Best budget: SmallRig Tripod Ball Head

How we chose the best tripod ball heads

The ball head tripod accessories that appear in this guide were primarily selected based on price and load capacity. When selecting the gear included here, we considered items that would be useful to a wide array of photographers and video creators who work on location and in the studio. Products were selected based on a combination of hands-on experience, editorial reviews, and customer feedback.

The best tripod ball heads: Reviews & recommendations

Tripod ball heads make adjusting your camera angle easy and quick. The options below are ideal for a range of photographers and videographers, so you can get one that best suits your needs. They are a sure way to round out a quality tripod so that you are able to get stable photos and videos in all situations.

Best overall: Manfrotto XPRO Ball Head

SEE IT

Specs

• Load capacity: 33.1 pounds
• Built-in level: Yes, 2
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Materials: Aluminum Magnesium 

Pros 

• Extremely smooth
• 360 degree panoramic rotation
• Triple locking system

Cons 

• Pricey

Manfroto’s XPro Tripod Ball Head is made out of aluminum magnesium, which is lightweight and durable. It offers a load capacity of 33.1 pounds, and its triple locking system makes for extremely stable shots. A friction control knob helps you balance the weight of the camera and lens, while two leveling bubbles help keep your horizon lines straight. It utilizes a grease-free construction, which makes for smooth movement with fewer jerks—a great benefit for video shooters. It provides 360 degrees of panoramic rotation and -90/+40 degrees of lateral tilt. And it features an Arca-Swiss compatible plate, making it extremely quick to attach or remove your camera from the tripod. 

Best for heavy equipment:  3 Legged Thing AirHed Pro Ball Head

SEE IT

Specs

• Load capacity: 88 pounds
• Built-in level: Yes, 1
• Weight: 11.36 ounces
• Materials: Aircraft-grade Magnesium Alloy

Pros 

• Strong, lightweight construction
• 360 degree panoramic rotation
• Quick release plate

Cons 

• Pricey

The 3 Legged Thing AirHed tripod ball head can hold up to 88 pounds of equipment—far more than most people will ever need. And yet it maintains a relatively lightweight profile thanks to its aircraft-grade magnesium alloy. A 360-degree clamp makes for smooth panning. It comes with an Arca-Swiss compatible quick release and has a single bubble level for keeping your shots straight. 

Best value for heavy gear: Vanguard Alta BH-300 Ball Head

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Specs

• Load capacity: 66 pounds
• Built-in level: Yes, 2
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Materials: Aluminum 

Pros

• Good value
• Two bubble levels
• 360-degree pan range

Cons 

• Friction system is a bit awkward

The Vanguard Alta BH-300 can support up to 66.1 pounds of camera equipment and yet it costs a fraction of the price of ball-heads that can support similar loads. It features a clamp and safety pin that prevents the plate from sliding out and has three separate control knobs for ball movement, friction control, and pan control. A single-cut notch allows a mounted camera to pan 90 degrees vertically. It’s made of aluminum, so it’s not quite as sturdy as some of the other options in this guide, but you can’t beat the price. 

Best for lightweight cameras: Benro IB0 Triple Action Ball Head

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Specs

• Load capacity: 13.2 pounds
• Built-in level: Yes, 2
• Weight: 11.3 ounces
• Materials: Magnesium 

Pros 

• Swiss-Arca compatible
• Separate locks for pan and fiction control
• Built-in bubble level
• 90 degree cutout for vertical orientation

Cons

• Not good for supporting heavy gear

This Swiss-Arca Ball Head from Benro is a great, affordable choice for smaller profile cameras. This lightweight head is only 11.3 ounces and 3.5 inches tall. It features separate locks for ball movement, panning control, and friction control. A 90-degree notch makes it easy to switch gear into portrait orientation while the camera is mounted on the ball head. And it offers a single bull’s eye leveling bubble for ensuring level horizons when shooting. 

Best budget: SmallRig Tripod Ball Head

SEE IT

Specs

• Load capacity: 11.02 pounds
• Built-in level: None
• Weight: 5.67 ounces
• Materials: Aluminum Alloy

Pros

• Extremely budget friendly
• 360 degrees of rotation
• Very lightweight
• Independent pan lock

Cons

• Not built for heavy gear

Most tripod ball heads are fairly expensive, but this SmallRig option provides an affordable alternative. It’s also the most lightweight ball head on our list, weighing just 5.76 ounces. Of course, the compact design comes with downsides. It can only hold 11.02 pounds, so this tripod head isn’t meant for heavy gear. It comes with an Arca-Swiss style quick-release plate, features 360 degrees of rotation, and offers an independent pan knob for level, panoramic shots. It also supports vertical shooting with -90 / +45-degree front tilt and -50 / +50-degree lateral tilt. If you are a beginner looking for an affordable tripod ball head or have a lightweight kit, this is a great option.

What to consider before buying a tripod ball head

Ball head tripods are generally smaller, more lightweight, and easier to operate than a traditional three-way pan tilt head tripod. They are great when you are traveling with gear and are looking to lighten the load—making them an excellent tool for landscape photographers, studio shooters, and even video creators. Just don’t forget to also invest in a tripod that matches your gear and shooting style.

Load capacity and ball size

Load capacity is the number one thing to pay attention to when shopping for a ball head for your tripod. This refers to how much weight the ball head will be able to safely hold. A ball head that can support more weight will typically cost more money, but it’s a crucial thing to consider if you will be shooting with heavy camera equipment or long lenses. Generally speaking, ball head tripods that have balls with larger diameters will be able to support more weight and provide smoother pans once the camera is attached.

Quick release plates

Many of the most popular ball head tripods use an Arca-Swiss style quick-release platform—this allows you to easily attach and remove your camera from the tripod. These plates often fit the bottoms of cameras better than generic plates and have a dovetail design that makes it easy to secure onto the ball head.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best tripod ball heads

• Best overall: Manfrotto XPRO Ball Head
• Best for heavy equipment:  3 Legged Thing AirHed Pro Ball Head
• Best value for heavy gear: Vanguard Alta BH-300 Ball Head
• Best for lightweight cameras: Benro IB0 Triple Action Ball Head
• Best budget: SmallRig Tripod Ball Head

Ball heads are a great lightweight tripod accessory for photographers shooting in the studio or out in the field. They even work well for video shooters. The fact that they are often pocket-sized makes them much easier to travel with than a pan-tilt tripod head. Just make sure you are investing in one that can handle the weight of the camera gear that you are attaching to it.

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 tripod ball heads 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 overall		Fositan Photo Box		SEE IT
Best kit		Godox LST40		SEE IT
Best value		Neewer Photo Studio Light Box		SEE IT

A photo light box—otherwise known as a light tent or shooting tent—can make product photography a much faster and simpler process. These little boxes are essentially small studios with built-in backgrounds and light diffusion that creates even, hot-spot-free illumination on just about any object you can fit inside. They provide a professional look that’s easy to replicate. It makes a big difference if you’re trying to get into selling things on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or any other online exchange. There are plenty of options on the market and some of them perform much better than others. We’ve curated this list of the best photo light boxes for simple, efficient still-life shooting.

• Best overall: Fositan Photo Box
• Best kit: Godox LST40
• Best value: Neewer Photo Studio Light Box
• Best portable: Neewer 24” x 24” portable
• Best for product photography: Ortery 2D PhotoBench 100

How we picked the best photo light boxes

I have been writing about and reviewing camera and photography equipment since 2008 for Popular Photography and a variety of other outlets. I’ve also sold tons of stuff online since the early 2000s. I curated this list based on personal experience, editorial reviews, user feedback, and spec comparisons. 

I emphasized models that include their own sources of illumination and allow for swappable backdrops for extra versatility. We looked for rugged construction without making the entire package too heavy and hard to move.

The best photo light boxes: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Fositan Photo Box

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With lots of room, built-in light strips, included backdrops, and multiple shooting angles, this setup has everything most photographers need.

Features:

• Size: 35” x 35”
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: Interchangeable (four included)

Pros:

• Includes everything you need
• Stepless dimming with two light strips
• Durable construction
• Multiple shooting angles from the front and top
• Interchangeable backdrops with four included.

Cons:

• Bulky

Lined with reflective fabric, this photo light box includes a pair of LED strips that provide even illumination across just about any object that fits inside. The large 35-inch interior offers plenty of room, even for larger objects. The kit comes with four different backgrounds, including black, white, blue, and orange. You can also add more background color options to the setup with fabric or paper.

The included lights offer surprisingly powerful and color-accurate illumination that spreads evenly across the subject. It’s technically portable because all of the gear fits into a single long carrying case. But, it weighs more than 16 pounds, so it’s not the easiest thing to lug around. 

Black outer walls make this box opaque, so you’re reliant on the interior lights for illumination. That doesn’t leave a lot of room for experimenting with lighting, but it does make the photographic process extremely simple and efficient. You can dim the lights, however, so there is some element of control. 

Multiple holes allower for various angles on the subject from the front and from the top. That’s handy if you don’t want to keep reaching inside the box to rotate the object to get different angles. 

Best kit: Godox LST40

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With three strip lights and a compact frame, this 16-inch box is great if you just want to get started photographing small objects quickly. 

Features:

• Size: 16 inches
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: White

Pros:

• Cheap
• Easy to assemble
• Three lights provide even illumination
• Access through front and top

Cons:

• May be too small for some objects

This affordable box comes with three LED strips that throw a blanket of even illumination over just about any subject that fits inside. The box itself only measures 16 cubic inches, so it’s not huge. That’s plenty of room for small objects like jewelry, video games, or even cameras. 

The included white backdrop provides an even, seamless field of white against which your object will stand out. An in-line dimmer allows each LED strip to change its power level independently. That simplifies the process of tweaking the lighting setup to match a specific object. It’s portable and comes with a carry bag, but building it is somewhat labor-intensive, so you won’t want to move it around too much. 

White and black backdrops come with this box, but you can cut custom colors of your own and place them inside if you want something custom. 

This is a fairly basic setup, but it has everything required for basic product shots.

Best value: Neewer Photo Studio Light Box

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This kit includes some surprising features at this price point, including ample LEDs and swappable backdrops.

Features:

• Size: 16 inches
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: Swappable (four included)

Pros:

• Includes everything you need
• Swappable backdrops
• Lots of LEDs for even lighting
• Multiple shooting ports
• Larger version available if you need more room.

Cons:

• Laborious to put together

Neewer has a reputation for making surprisingly capable photo accessories for almost ridiculously low prices. This light box comes with everything required to start shooting still life and product photos. The 16-inch box isn’t huge, but you can step up to a 24-inch model if you need more room. 

The sturdy sides are opaque, which lets the internal LED arrays provide an even stream of light across the object inside. It comes with four useful background colors, but you can easily cut more from paper, fabric, or whatever else you want to use. 

Flaps allow photographers to shoot from the front or the top of the item to give several viewpoints without having to rotate it. The lights are dimmable so you can tweak a little from subject to subject. 

This is a great starter kit for someone just getting into ecommerce.

Best portable: Neewer 24” x 24” portable

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It folds up like a collapsible reflector so it’s exceptionally easy to carry.

Features:

• Size: 16 inches
• Light included? No
• Backgrounds: White

Pros:

• Translucent sides offer more creative freedom
• Exceptionally easy to carry around
• Comes with a travel case
• Sets up very easily

Cons:

• Lights not included

You don’t always need fancy light arrays to provide your illumination. This translucent box surrounds a subject with diffusion material. Then, photographers can add their own light, whether it’s natural from the outdoors or artificial from hot lights and flashes. 

Because it doesn’t rely on included or built-in lights, this box offers a lot more creative freedom than some others on the list. You can get really creative with flashes, natural light, or mixing both. It comes with four backdrops, including black, white, blue, and red. Openings allow for shooting from the front or from the top. 

When the shoot is over, simply twist up the metal frame like you would with a collapsible reflector. The whole package fits into a carrying case roughly the size of a pizza. This model allows photographers to close the front panel and shoot through a small slit in order to minimize reflections. That can make a big difference when shooting something very reflective. 

Best for product photography: Ortery 2D PhotoBench 100

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Why it made the cut: If you’re looking to get into super-high-end jewelry shooting, this is the (very expensive) ticket.

Features:

• Size: 23.6 inches
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: 

Pros:

• Super-professional features make shooting tons of images easy
• Computer integration allows for large previews in a hurry
• Software features include automatically removing backgrounds
• Quickly send to image editing programs or the internet
• Very burly and tough

Cons:

• Extremely expensive

If you’re looking to start a professional e-commerce business or you’re selling hundreds of items a week, then an expensive pro setup like this may be worth the considerable investment. This box integrates with a computer and either a Canon or Nikon digital camera. The computer controls the camera and lighting. It allows for shooting from the front or from the top of the subject. 

It’s not terribly flexible. It’s meant for turning out a lot of high-quality product shots on a white background with minimal tweaking and downtime. It offers extremely even lighting from the front, bottom, and back of the box. 

As the high price suggests, this isn’t for casual sellers, but bigger operations with extremely high volume. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best photo light boxes

Before we get to the specific picks, here are some terms and features you should understand before you head out into the market. Understanding these variables will help you choose the right model for your workflow.

Size

Choosing the right size photo light box can be tricky. You want enough room for the biggest items you want to shoot, but you don’t want to take up an entire room in your house with the setup. We recommend going bigger than you think you might need because extra space can save you a lot of time that you might otherwise spend photoshopping your backdrop later on. 

If you’re worried about space, a collapsible model that breaks down easily can help you save a ton of room when not in use.

Lighting

Some models will come with built-in lights that integrate into the structure of the light box. Others simply provide walls made of diffusion material and a background. You’ll have to decide which works better for you. 

Those with integrated lights typically make setup simpler and easier. You don’t have to worry about experimenting with light placement or intensity because that’s pre-determined by the gear. There are downsides, however, You get less control over your lighting and if one of the integrated lights breaks, it may be hard to replace.

Stand alone boxes give you the most creative freedom, but they’re also better for more advanced users.

Backgrounds

Your object needs something to sit on. Some photo light boxes allow for interchangeable backgrounds made of plastic, paper or fabric. Others rely on built-in white backgrounds that don’t come out. If you never plan on using creative backgrounds, simple may be better for you. It’s also possible to cut paper backdrops or even poster boards (in a pinch) to make creative backgrounds for yourself.

Shooting positions

Most product photography happens from a relatively straight-on angle, which works thanks to an opening in the front of the box. Some more advanced boxes will allow for different shooting angles through holes in the top or the sides of the enclosure. If you only ever plan on shooting basic product shots, a hole in the front should be fine. If you want more creative freedom, look for extra openings.

Portability

Portable light boxes often fold up on metal frames like collapsible reflectors. Other portable models don’t break down as easily, but all of the components fit nicely into a convenient carrying case. The most elaborate setups take time and effort to break down and setup so you’ll want to leave them where they are once you have everything dialed in. The permanent setups typically offer more room and flexibility, which is great if you have room to keep it set up. Portable models typically offer sparse features to facilitate easy transport.

FAQs

Final thoughts about the best photo light boxes

• Best overall: Fositan Photo Box
• Best kit: Godox LST40
• Best value: Neewer Photo Studio Light Box
• Best portable: Neewer 24” x 24” portable
• Best for product photography: Ortery 2D PhotoBench 100

We chose the Fositan Photo Box as our best overall photo light box. It offers a solid selection of features with a sturdy build at a reasonable price. Other options provide more flexibility when it comes to creative lighting, but we value simplicity and efficiency above all else with setups like this.

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 photo light boxes for 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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

Pivo makes some clever devices to make vlogging and streaming much easier, especially if you are filming solo are recording content with lots of movement. The various Pivo Pods use AI to automatically track faces no matter where they move, even rotating 360 degrees to keep following the action. And right now, three of its models are discounted for Amazon Prime Day, so you can take your vlogging to the next level for up to 40 percent less.

Pivo Pod Max $174.99 (was $249.99)

SEE IT

The Pivo Pod Max is the company’s latest release, so it’s nice to see such a steep discount despite that. The Max can work with a phone, tablet, or even camera and uses AI to automatically track faces, bodies, horses, or dogs. It is able to rotate 360 degrees, so no matter where the subject moves, the Pivo Pod Max will follow. And it features a 1/4-inch tripod thread giving you more flexibility for how your footage looks. This deal requires you click the box for the on-page coupon, so don’t forget to do that for 30 percent off.

More Pivo deals

• Pivo Pod + Essentials Kit $174.99 (was $239.99)
• Pivo Pod + Starter Kit $119.99 (was $179.99)
• Pivo Pod Influencer Edition $53.99 (was $89.99)
• Pivo Pod Lite $47.99 (was $79.99)

The post Save up to 40 percent on Pivo auto-tracking camera mounts for Prime Day appeared first on Popular Photography.

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

Best heavy duty setup		Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit		SEE IT	A great setup for those working in studios.
Best Backdrop for Tabletop Photography		Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox		SEE IT	Perfect for taking product images right on your table.
Easiest to Set Up		Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand		SEE IT	These C Stands make backdrop setup quick and easy.

A backdrop stand may not seem like the most exciting piece of photography equipment, but it’s the backbone of any studio. If you are looking to shoot pro portraits against seamless paper or easily hang a cloth backdrop, investing in the best backdrop stands you can afford will keep your shoots running smoothly. 

Even if you’re not a studio shooter, you have a wide variety of backdrop stands from which to choose. They can handle everything from on-location portrait sessions to event coverage. Hanging your backdrop from a stand, rather than taping it to the wall, means that while you are shooting you don’t need to worry about the backdrop falling unexpectedly. Gaff tape is great, but it shouldn’t be holding up your backdrop.

• Best overall: Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand
• Best portable: Neewer Photo Studio
• Best for tabletop photography: Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox
• Best heavy duty: Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit
• Best budget: BDDFOTO Photo Video Background Stand

The best backdrop stands: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand

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C Stands are a photo studio staple, and although they are typically used for holding lights, they are a great way to easily set up a backdrop as well. These stainless steel C Stands are durable enough to hold fresh rolls of seamless paper or heavier cloth backdrops, have a max height of 11ft. The turtle base makes it easy to flop a sandbag over the stand to keep it secure. You will need two of these to hang a full-sized roll of seamless, some clamps to secure it from the top once it’s rolled out, and gaff tape to secure the edge of the paper, but it’s a slightly more cost-effective than an autopole system, a lot more versatile. You can set it up solo or bring it on location if you leave ample time in the schedule and don’t mind a little lifting.

Best portable: Neewer Photo Studio

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Neewer’s backdrop stand kit comes with a carrying bag, backdrop clips, and three different colors of backdrops—making it a great affordable package for photographers who are just getting started. The stand is made of aluminum alloy and is adjustable up to 8.5ft tall and 9.8ft wide, the cross bar is made of 4 sections which makes it easy to adjust the width of the stand. We wouldn’t recommend putting a fresh roll of seamless paper on this backdrop stand, it’s better suited for lightweight fabrics, but it can handle a roll that’s near the end of its life. Luckily, this kit comes with three lightweight backdrops to get you started.

Best for tabletop photography: Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox

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A compact setup for smartphone shooters looking to sell their wares online or the photographer shooting small products. This backdrop stand tabletop kit comes with four fabric backdrops, four mini LED lights, a set of gel filters, and a stand for your smartphone. The stand is actually a foldable lightbox that folds into a compact case, making this a great option for shooters who are crunched on space. This tiny setup obviously doesn’t make sense for shooting portraits, but if you are the kind of shooter that deals with lots of small products it’s an excellent, easy-to-use solution. You can finally start that eBay store selling knick knacks.

Best heavy duty: Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit

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Manfrotto is one of the most trusted brands in the photo space and the company’s  Autopole system is an excellent choice for shooters who are primarily working in a studio. The autopoles securely wedge between the floor and the ceiling. They offer an expandable height of 6.5 feet to 11.4 feet—making it an excellent choice for a studio space. 

Best budget: BDDFOTO Photo Video Background Stand

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Don’t expect this budget backdrop stand to last a lifetime, but if you are looking for something lightweight, easy to use and your backdrops aren’t particularly heavy—you really can’t beat the price on this one. This backdrop stand is adjustable from 2.3ft to 6.6ft in height and has a 4 piece cross bar that can be set up between 5ft to 10ft. It can only hold up to 5.29 lbs of weight though, so this is a system that you will want to use with lightweight cloth or vinyl backdrops, rather than fresh rolls of seamless paper. It breaks down small for easy storage in its compact carrying case. Don’t forget the sandbags if you intend to shoot with this one.  

Things to consider when looking at the best backdrop stands

Backdrop stands come in a variety of materials, sizes, and price points, and considering where you will be using the stand most often will help you consider what stand is best for you. If you are primarily working in a studio situation and have assistants working under you, you can’t beat the flexibility of an Autopole system. If you are a studio shooter who often works alone, investing in two solid C stands might be a better option.

If you are a photographer who regularly travels to weddings or events and is in need of a step-and-repeat or photo booth style set up, a collapsible backdrop stand that you build on site will probably serve your needs better. You’ll appreciate the portability when it’s time to pack up.

Pay close attention to what material your backdrop stands are made of though—a stand made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy will be stronger and more durable than a lighter weight model.

Other things to consider when shopping for a backdrop stand

As with many pieces of pro gear, the most expensive backdrop stand isn’t necessarily the best one for your specific needs. Full-sized backdrop stands can range anywhere from $30 to $500 dollars, but there is a significant range in quality that you will find online. The most expensive backdrop stands are a durable and excellent choice for studio shooting, especially if you are a photographer who regularly shoots with seamless paper. They are, however, often heavy and bulky, which makes them less than ideal for shooting on location.

If you are the kind of photographer who is typically shooting in the field, something collapsible may be a better option. Collapsible backdrop stands can be small enough for a single headshot or large enough to fit several people. They also come in a variety of color and pattern options. Although a lightweight option might seem like the go-to choice, if you are planning to hang heavy cloth backgrounds or heavy rolls of seamless paper from it, you will likely find yourself replacing it after only a few shoots. Many of the lightweight collapsible backdrop stands are really better suited for hanging a thin cloth backdrop or a vinyl step and repeat backdrop. You really don’t want your setup collapsing mid-shoot. It’s bad for the pictures and your insurance rates.

Regardless of the backdrop stand that you choose you will want to invest in some gaff tape, clamps and sand bags to keep your backdrop upright. Sandbags are particularly important if you are shooting outside with a collapsible backdrop stand to keep a strong gust of wind from taking your backdrop away from the set. An outdoor backdrop is basically a sail from a sailboat just waiting to take off with a gust of wind. 

Gaff tape will help you secure your seamless paper to the ground, while clamps will keep the top of your paper from unraveling. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite options for hanging backdrops.

The Expan system holds up to three rolls of paper, and a gear drive chain on the side of the rolls allows shooters to easily roll and unroll seamless papers. The system has a max weight capacity of 22 lbs, although we wouldn’t recommend keeping your seamless papers hanging from the stand when not in use because they can form slight bends that show up in photos. If you are a busy studio shooter you can’t go wrong with this system.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best backdrop stands

A backdrop stand is an excellent way for taking your studio or event photography to the next level. A solid backdrop stand will allow you to eliminate distracting elements from your background so that the focus is on your subjects. Don’t forget your roll of gaff tape, sandbags, and a set of clamps—three helpful photo accessories to make sure you can set your backdrops up with ease.

The post The best backdrop stands in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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There are already lots of great gear roundups for beginners and photographers on a budget. The strobes, kits and LED panels below fall into another category entirely. The gear featured here is for professional photographers who want to invest in the best possible lighting equipment on the market without flinching when they see the price tag. The key word here is “invest.” No need to question quality, reliability or performance, the gear below delivers to the highest standard on all fronts.

Profoto D2 1000 Monolight

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The Profoto D2 is the brand’s flagship monolight, offering 1000Ws of power with 10 stops of output control in 1/10 or full stop increments, flash durations as short at 1/50000s (t0.5), recycle time of 0.03 to 1.2 seconds, and a burst mode that can fire up to 20 flashes per second. Additionally, you get Through the Lens (TTL) metering, High Speed Sync (HSS) support that allows you to use the flash at shutter speeds up to 1/8000s, and extremely consistent color temperature (+/- 20K) from flash to flash. The Profoto D2 1000 AirTTL is not battery-powered like the brand’s B1X or B10 monolights, but this allowed Protofo to pack much more power into a light that’s still completely self-contained.

Broncolor Siros 800 L Monolight

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The Siros 800 S is the most powerful battery-powered monolight Broncolor makes, delivering 800Ws of power while still promising 220 full-power flashes per charge. The Siros 800 S offers 9 stops of power control in either 1/10th or full stop increments, a recycle time of 0.03 to 2.7 seconds, and a minimum flash duration of 1/7400 of a second (t0.5). The flash also supports HSS up to 1/8000s as long as you’re using an RFS2.2 trigger. It’s not quite as fast or powerful as the Profoto D2, but if you need the convenience and versatility of a battery-powered monolight without sacrificing much power, the Broncolor Siros 800 S is the way to go.

Profoto B10 Plus Duo

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Smaller than anything else in this power range, the Profoto B10 Plus boasts 500Ws of power with 10 stops of control, a recycle time of 0.05 to 2.5 seconds, TTL support and HSS up to 1/8000s, all inside a housing that’s only 9.3 inches long and weighs just 4.2 lbs with the battery and stand adapter attached. The flash can fire up to 200 full-power flashes on a single charge and, as a bonus, the built-in modeling lamp is both brightness and color temperature adjustable, outputting up to 2500 lumens with a CRI of 90-96. The Profoto B10 Plus Duo Kit packs two of these monolights into the Profoto Core BackPack S along with two batteries, two chargers, two power cables, and a stand adapter for each.

Westcott Flex Cine Peter Hurley Kit

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The Westcott Flex Cine LED lights are high-output, flexible LED mats that have become popular with photographers who occasionally trade in their strobes for continuous lights. Each mat is fully dimmable and daylight balanced at 5600K, with an impressive CRI rating of up to 96. The flexible mats can be used as they are, or you can mount them to Westcott’s lightweight Flex Cine frames so you can attach them to light stands, add diffusion material, and use them as a standard LED panels. The Westcott Flex Cine Peter Hurley Kit was designed for professional headshot photographers, and includes three 1 x 2-foot Flex Cine Daylight Mats with Flex Cine frames, two Scrim Jim Cine full-stop 2-layer diffusion scrims, dimmers, AC power adapters, shoulder straps, mounting hardware, and a roller bag tailor-made for this particular kit.

Broncolor Siros 400 L Outdoor Kit

The battery-powered Siros 400 L monolight at the core of this kit offers 400Ws of power with 9 stops of adjustment in 1/10th or full stop increments, a recycle time of 0.03 to 1.2 seconds, and a minimum flash duration of 1/11300 of a second (t0.5). We really wish Broncolor had packed about 100Ws more power into this monolight, but to their credit, the drop in power allowed them to squeeze an impressive 440 full-power flashes per charge out of the battery. At 12.6 inches long and weighing 6.8 lbs without the battery, it’s much larger and heavier than the Profoto B10 Plus, but it’ll last almost twice as long in the field. The Broncolor Siros 400 L Outdoor Kit is an all-in-one kit that includes two of these monolights, their batteries, one charger, one silver/black umbrella, one softbox with adapter ring, one sync cable, and a convenient roller bag.

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Best for portraits		Kodak Portra 400		SEE IT	Get beautiful skin tones with this film.
Best for landscapes		Kodak Ektar 100		SEE IT	Bring out the most of your landscape photos.
Best color slide film		Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50		SEE IT	A great film for colorful situations.

Color film was one of the most popular photography products in the pre-digital era. If you were born before the early 2000s, chances are the images that you associate with your family memories were all shot on color film. Film comes in a variety of speeds and formats, and selecting the best film stocks for you depends a lot on what you plan to shoot, the time of day you will be shooting, and what camera equipment you will be using. But no matter what you are looking for or your experience level, the best color film will help bring your visions to life.

• Best for portraits: Kodak Portra 400
• Best for landscapes: Kodak Ektar 100
• Best color slide film: Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50
• Best for the experimental photographer: KONO Manufaktur ORIGINAL SUNSTROKE 200
• Best budget: Kodak Gold 200

The best color film: Reviews & recommendations

Best for portraits: Kodak Portra 400

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Kodak Portra 400 is a popular choice for portrait photographers because of the way it renders skin tones. It’s a versatile film stock that offers a fair amount of leniency when it comes to exposures, making it a great option for photographers who are just getting started shooting film. It’s a bit more expensive than the color rolls you might find on the shelf in a drugstore, but the results are beautiful. Some photographers like to intentionally over or under-expose it to change the look. 

Best for landscapes: Kodak Ektar 100

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This C-41 film stock from Kodak is reminiscent of the vivid colors typically only found in color slide film but at a cheaper price point. This low-speed option has a very fine grain and reproduces color in a way that is closer to what you get with a digital camera. It’s available in both 35mm and 120 so it will work with whatever camera gear you have, even if you’ve stepped up to a medium format film camera.

Best color slide film: Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50

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Fujifilm’s Velvia stock is the best if you are interested in shooting dramatic landscapes, but it’s also an excellent option for capturing vibrant spring and summer days. Color slide film isn’t as lenient when it comes to exposures, is one of the pricier options on the market, and is typically more expensive to process, but in the right lighting conditions, the results are beautiful. Fujifilm has been slowly paring back its film offerings, so if you want to give it a try, we recommend you do it sooner than later.

Best for the experimental photographer: KONO Manufaktur ORIGINAL SUNSTROKE 200

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This is a film stock made for photographers who prefer things to get a little funky. It is a color-negative film with bright, warm colors. What makes it unique is the light leak effects that come already on the film, no faulty camera is needed. The effect is created by hand using The Reanimator device that Kono developed in-house. It will vary on each frame, giving you unexpected results.

Best budget: Kodak Gold 200

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This medium-speed, daylight-balanced film is one of the most affordable films you can find. It’s typically sold in multi-packs and averages about $5 per roll. The colors won’t be as vibrant as some of the other film stocks on the market—it’s much more subtle—but when it’s exposed well it does have a very pleasant warm vibe to it. It also comes in 24-shot rolls as opposed to 36, which is handy if you like to change film frequently or it takes you a long time to work a roll through your 35mm film camera.

Things to consider before buying color film

For a variety of reasons, film photography has once again become very popular. Whether you are completely new to shooting film, or an experienced film shooter returning to the medium, there are a handful of things to consider when looking at film stocks.

Color-negative film versus color slide film 

Film stocks come in two major varieties—those that are developed with C-41 chemicals and color reversal (or slide film), which is developed by using E-6 processing. Film developed using C-41 will produce a standard negative, while color slide films create a positive version of the film once it is developed. E-6 film is typically more expensive and isn’t as forgiving when it comes to exposures. It can also be difficult to find labs that process slide film. For an interesting effect, color slide film can be developed using C-41 chemicals, and color negatives can be developed using E-6. This is called cross-processing and will shift the colors and increase the contrast of the film. 

One of the most appealing aspects of shooting with color-negative film is that it typically is very forgiving when it comes to over-exposures. If you are new to film photography this is helpful because it means that even if you aren’t nailing perfect exposures while shooting, your images will still turn out. It’s one of the reasons that disposable point-and-shoot cameras typically come loaded with a roll of color-negative film. Using a film camera that has automatic metering and a pop-up flash will certainly help keep things properly exposed, but most film stocks are forgiving enough that you will be okay even if you are using a fully manual camera. Slide film offers extremely rich colors but is decidedly less forgiving.

Film size

35mm film is the most popular of film sizes and what you will want to use if your film camera is an SLR, a point-and-shoot, or most rangefinders. Most films also regularly come in the 120 format, which is the correct size if you are shooting with a medium format camera. 

Film speed

There are many film varieties and they typically differ in speed and the ways in which it reproduces colors. Film speed, also known as ASA, is similar to setting the ISO on your digital camera. A slow-speed 50 film will need to be used in bright sunny conditions, while a 400-speed film can be shot indoors or outdoors. As film speed increases, so will the film’s grain. The majority of films fall somewhere between 160-800 ASA. 

Before loading a roll into your camera you should consider what you will be shooting and what the lighting conditions might be like. If you are planning on shooting your roll of film inside, you will probably want to avoid something with a slow ASA speed and opt for a 400-speed roll of film instead. Underexposed images on film tend to look washed out and grainy.

Color pallet

The other thing to consider when selecting the right film for you is the color pallet. Every film stock renders colors a bit differently. Color slide film is typically known for its bright, saturated colors, for which many shooters consider it the best choice for landscapes. A 400-speed film like Kodak Portra is typically the best film for portraits because of the way it renders skin tones. Consumer films will typically be the best for beginners because of the neutral color reproduction and the cheap price.

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Final thoughts about color film

If you are just getting started with film photography, choosing an inexpensive film stock with an ASA range between 200-400 is an excellent place to start. As you get more comfortable with your camera and shooting color film you should experiment with lower-speed films, color slide film, and more experimental film stocks. This type of photography is a fun and versatile way to create beautiful memories.

• Best for portraits: Kodak Portra 400
• Best for landscapes: Kodak Ektar 100
• Best color slide film: Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50
• Best for the experimental photographer: KONO Manufaktur ORIGINAL SUNSTROKE 200
• Best budget: Kodak Gold 200

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.

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