Search results for: photography buying guide beginner photography guide
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by Luke Rollins · Posted
The market for point-and-shoot cameras is in an interesting place at the moment, with some of the most affordable options available new instead of used. As vintage Y2K-era imagery circulates social media, demand for these old digicams surges, all but erasing the value proposition that caused these old cameras to go viral in the first place. If you're in search of a fun, casual, and budget-friendly digital point-and-shot camera that still brings those retro vibes, B&H carries a range of available new options catering to different needs.
It'
by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
Who doesn’t want to capture fun and creative portraits of our four-legged friends? We know we love it. In fact, pet photography may just be the most popular form of photography there is. Think of all the smartphone snaps of yawns, big stretches, and funny moments we all take of our cats, dogs, chinchillas, and beyond.
Quick snaps aside, you know what really ups the quality of our pet portraits? Lighting. Just as with any form of portrait, lighting unlocks possibilities that can be impossible without it. But what lighting system should we use?
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
There is nothing that can replace the extreme close-up view of a rare bird in the wild. Binoculars can get you close but, if you want to look the bird in the eye or confirm that identification for your life list, you need a spotting scope. Spotting scopes pack incredible magnification in a generally simple and lightweight package that is
by M. Brett Smith · Posted
The best beginner drones are easy to operate, durable, and come equipped with user-friendly features designed to help novice pilots get accustomed to operating a drone.
Best Beginner Drone Overall: Potensic ATOM 2
Best Beginner Drone for Photography: DJI Mini 5 Pro
Best Beginner FPV Drone: EMAX Tinyhawk III
Best Value Beginner Drone:
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
If you are stranded on a desert island and can only have one camera lens with you, which lens would you choose? That may depend on your specific area of expertise, but for the average photographer, the 50mm focal length is an essential tool to have in your kit. The 50mm prime lens, or “Nifty Fifty,” features a field of view close to that of the human eye, and delivers exceptional image quality, subject isolation, and background rendering, all in a compact package.
The Origin of the “Nifty Fifty”
In the bygone era of film SLR photography, many
by M. Brett Smith · Posted
Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or deep-space dilletante, finding the best telescope is no easy task. During the ’scope selection process, you’ll need to consider several factors, including telescope type, viewing application, magnification power, and more.
To help you find the best telescope for your astronomical ambitions, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite ’scopes and separated
by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
When it comes to choosing the right camera, there’s often a gap between the small, pocketable point-and-shoot cameras and larger mirrorless ones. While interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras have much to offer, their higher price points and larger form factor often make them unfeasible for the average photo enthusiast. It often leads to the question of how a photographer can bridge that gap.
Enter the aptly named bridge camera. These cameras
Posted
Do you love using your disposable camera, but are looking to upgrade to a reusable one? Lotta shares how and why to purchase a film camera, including how to choose from the variety of cameras out there, from regular-old 35mm to half frame.
0:00 - In This Video
0:15 - Why Upgrade?
1:27 - Buying Guide - Beginner
3:20 - Buying Guide - Intermediate
5:08 - Used Point-and-Shoot Cameras
5:32 - Digital/Analog Hybrid
5:59 - Useful Tips
by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
After the smartphone revolution, it appeared that the days of the compact camera were done. How wrong we were. It’s true that a few years back, point-and-shoot options were few and far between. There were just a handful of options on the market, and some industry titans even left the market entirely. Despite the long-rumored demise of the compact camera, it seems that photo enthusiasts still desire a dedicated device without the distractions that come with a smartphone.
What is a compact or “point-and-shoot” camera? Just because a camera is “
by M. Brett Smith · Posted
When it comes to finding the best drone, there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution. Different pilots have different needs, different budgets, and different skill levels. Some are photographers, some are racers, and some just like to fly. In other words, what's best for one drone pilot might not be what's best for all.
To help you find the drone that best suits your needs and interests, we've put together a list of some of our
by Luke Rollins · Posted
An open secret for photographers in 2025 is the robustness of the used market. With manufacturers pivoting to different production and distribution strategies in response to various geopolitical upheavals, finding popular, coveted, unique, competent, and flagship equipment second-hand has moved from viable to (sometimes) necessary. Flagship models turn over and older high-end gear depreciates, creating deals for savvy buyers. Earlier
by Luke Rollins · Posted
While 2025 continued many of the photo industry's developments (emphasis on hybrid developments, splashes of niche camera releases, sequels to established camera series), it also formalized the compact digicam trend that had emerged on social media in recent years, with several companies releasing (or re-releasing) point-and-shoot cameras. As the floor for image quality continues to rise, and with yesteryear's flagship features trickling down to today's mid-market offerings, manufacturers are distinguishing themselves through body design,
by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
Anyone who has dabbled in pet photography knows that it can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. While pets are considered to be part of the family, they’re still animals who walk to the beat of their own drum and do things at their own pace. Even the best listeners can be easily distracted or have trouble sitting still for more than two seconds. If you’re considering trying your hand at photographing our fuzzy friends, we’ve put together this helpful guide for you. In this guide, we’re going to cover the essentials for those with a
by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
As the holiday season fast approaches, you may find yourself looking for the perfect gift for the photographer in your life. With all the gear on the market, finding the right gift can seem overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular gift items for both digital and film shooters.
35mm Film and Beyond
Film is back and there are plenty of vibrant stocks to choose from. You can never go wrong with
by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
Street photography is the art of capturing candid, unmediated chance encounters and moments in everyday life. There are a number of approaches to this genre, from the fly on the wall to the Bruce Gilden style of getting in someone’s face with a camera and speedlight. Whatever your personal feelings on the matter, there’s no wrong way to do it. Of course, modern cities are quite different than the streets some of the greats walked.
The world is a very different place than the one many great photographers lived in. Cameras are a part of