Cuba
Hard to believe but this is the last weekend to holiday shop, or order online and still get your gift in time. I have been using some great new accessories that would make a perfect gift for the photographer on your list, so here are five photo gift ideas. Some inexpensive and others expensive. But your photographer will be happy!
1. Singh-Ray Mor-Slo 10 stop ND filter. The image at top was taken with this filter. This ND filter is about slowing down moving clouds during the day, or slowing water down as well. What is nice is you just order the size that fits your wide angle lens, and call it good. You can shoot at 1 1/2 minutes in bright sun, and much longer when the storm clouds roll in. Or imagine slowing down moving people and cars on your next European trip. $350.
2. Rogue Flashbender 2 XL Pro Lighting System. This handy reflector doubles as a soft box with a diffusion attachment, a snoot or a bounce card. Also, a strip grid is included (see my recent video for Rogue on their website) to control the light with portraits. A great item for any photographer. I used my snoot for travel (see cigar photo) and the softbox for portraits. $99
3. Nikon SB5000. I have used almost every flash Nikon has introduced for the last 20 years, and their latest speedlight, the SB5000, is incredible. Compared to the SB910, this flash is smaller, more powerful, faster (recycling) and can use a radio wireless signal from the D500/D5 (and no doubt future cameras). The SB5000 is compatible with other Nikon cameras like the D810 using an optical wireless signal. I have been using these lights extensively; they are excellent…but not cheap. $600
4. Streamlight Stylus. Here is a great stocking stuffer. This little flashlight is the perfect tool for light painting portraits and small objects. The Stylus comes is a variety of colors, and you hardly know it is in your photo pack. Imagine light painting that fishing buoy on the beach, or the flowers in your hotel room. $14
5. 50mm prime lens. If you want to experience all the benefits of using a prime lens, but don’t want to pay a fortune, then but a 50mm F1.8 prime lens for your camera. These lenses cost around $200, a great value with excellent performance. I bring my Nikon 50mm F1.8 with me on ever trip. It is very lightweight, offers incredible bokeh shooting wide open, and is a terrific street lens. Try a few portraits at F1.8 to see what the beautiful bokeh background prime lenses offer. If you already have the 50mm, consider an 85mm. My favorite portrait lens is my 85 F1.4, and the 85mm F1.8 is also excellent and a lot cheaper.