Bokeh isn't just about how much a lens blurs the background. Its appearance is determined by an entire range of optical properties—from the shape of the aperture blades to internal lens design and optical aberrations. Let’s take a look at how bokeh is rendered, what causes “cat’s eyes” and “onion rings,” and how your camera body itself can influence the appearance of bokeh.

An ultra-wide-angle, ultra-fast lens. This isn’t just a lens for the display case—it’s a genuinely practical tool. That said, it might not be the right lens for every photographer. Find out why I choose it and what my experience has been after using this Sigma lens.

Debates over megapixels and sensor size can easily overshadow what really matters. It’s the story, the emotions, and the light that make a great photo, not the technology. In this article, we’ll look at when it makes sense to use a smartphone and when a camera is the better choice. We’ll take into account how quickly you need to react, whether you want to remain inconspicuous in a crowd, how people around you respond, and what you plan to do with the photo. There is a comparison of the key settings of both options at the end.

You can carry your camera equipment with you in a variety of carrying cases or bags. One of the most popular solutions is a camera backpack. There are plenty to choose from and there is one out there that suits just about anyone. It’s important to consider which features are the most important to you.

Every beginner wants to look professional behind the camera, and camera manufacturers are more than happy to profit from that. Let's go through five popular accessories and pieces of gear that people often buy because the gear makes them feel more professional rather than because it actually improves their photos. We'll tell you when this gear actually makes sense — and when it's just an unnecessary, premature expense.

The Sigma 35/1.2 DG II Art is the second generation of Sigma’s fastest 35mm lens for mirrorless cameras. Compared to its predecessor, it’s significantly lighter and more compact. After several thousand photos from five different weddings, I’ll share how the lens performs in terms of sharpness, bokeh, autofocus, and real-world handling—and whether this expensive, specialized lens is worth choosing over a lighter and more affordable f/1.4 alternative.

How many cameras does your smartphone actually need? Manufacturers boast three or more lenses and “optical zoom,” but reality might be different. We tested the differences between the main lens and the telephoto lens in a smartphone to find out when it’s a real upgrade—and when it’s just marketing hype.   

Choosing the right tripod isn’t just about price or brand. I’ll walk you through how to pick one based on your photography style, what features to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. This will help you get it right on your first try.  

Strategic equipment upgrades can significantly improve the quality of your photos and unlock new creative opportunities. In this guide, we take a look at accessories like tripods and SD cards, as well as prime lenses, filters, and more that will enhance your camera capabilities.

Lens speed made simple: Learn what lens aperture means, how it affects your photos, and when it is—or isn’t—worth investing in fast glass.