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.   

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.

Thinking about buying a second-hand camera? Used camera equipment can be a great option if you know what to look for. In this article, you’ll find tips on how to spot a quality used camera, what to check, how to test a used lens, what to avoid, and where to buy gear. Save money and avoid unnecessary risk.

Are you looking to buy your first camera but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? In this article, I help you choose a camera that’s right for beginners. You’ll learn what to focus on, what to ignore, and how not to get lost in the sea of acronyms and technical jargon. Whether you want to shoot family snapshots, wildlife, or artistic portraits, I’ll help you find the right beginner camera that fits your needs.  

When I first got into photography, my camera backpack was full of prime lenses with the lowest possible f-numbers. Back then, everyone insisted that I needed fast lenses. Their reasons varied: better technical quality, faster focusing, and most importantly, beautiful bokeh or blurred backgrounds. How do I see it today? 

For most people, camera lens filters are a round piece of glass that screw onto the front of the lens. But what if your lens is too long or wide, or you need to move the filter while shooting? There are several different options for these cases—ranging from relatively standard filters to highly specialized ones designed for specific lenses.

The Tamron 150-500 mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD lens is a great choice for photographers looking for long glass for sports or wildlife photography. Its range of focal lengths and excellent image sharpness, even at minimum f-numbers, make it on par with similar models from Nikon.

Ultra wide-angle lenses aren’t for everyone. But there are times when they can seem irreplaceable. These lenses can capture an extremely wide field of view, which may distract viewers. How can you use ultra wide-angle lenses properly and when do they come in handy?

I tested the ultra wide-angle Sony 12-24/4 lens. It has an initial focal length of 12mm. It’s so wide that you don’t have to compromise like you would with similar lenses. Read on to learn how the Sony 12-24/4 performs and what issues you may encounter.