As far as I can remember, I’ve always had at least one Gitzo tripod in my kit. The brand is legendary and represents a level of quality that suits both my budget and creative needs perfectly. The Gitzo GT3542L Mountaineer Tripod is versatile insofar that it offers both ease-of-use that make it my go-to tool for lighter workloads and is light enough for location projects.
Thank you for supporting my gear blog by buying this recommended tripod via my Amazon affiliate link.
I’ve been using Backblaze for my online backups for close to a decade and a couple of these reliable drives for my daily onsite copies of ongoing film and photo projects as well as archived material. These drives are reliable, reasonably quiet, and don’t take up much space on my desk. In addition, the G-Technology G DRIVE 10 TB USB aluminum cases are stackable.
Thanks for buying one or more of these drives via my Amazon affiliate link and by doing so, supporting my efforts here on this gear blog.
https://raboffphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/G-Technology-G-DRIVE-10TB-USB.jpg9161500adminadmin2021-12-09 14:35:562021-12-09 14:35:56G-Technology G DRIVE 10 TB USB
Throughout my career, I’ve owned about two dozen camera and film cases as well as plenty of backpacks from most of the major brand names. I’m fairly picky about features, quality, and looks. When I first saw the WANDRD Original PRVKE Travel DSLR & Laptop Backpack (photo bundle), I knew I’d found a new favorite camera bag.
Not only does it have an adequately padded compartment for my Macbook Pro 16” (even fitting it with the Twelve South Leather case), it also came with a detachable compartment for my Fuji XT-3 with a telephoto lens mounted. And if I remove that zipped camera pouch, the WANDRD instantly becomes a great overnight bag with plenty of space for all kinds of stuff.
There are plenty of small pockets all over the bag and even one for a small travel tripod or monopod. The shoulder straps are infinitely adjustable and I really like the smartly positioned fabric handles on top. They connect with a magnet on either handle. Overall, this camera bag is well-made and equally important, offers a design that is thought-through. Function over form all the way!
Thank you for buying this camera bag from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
https://raboffphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/WANDRD-Original-PRVKE-Travel-DSLR-Laptop-Backpack.jpg500498adminadmin2021-12-09 13:48:552021-12-09 13:48:55WANDRD Original PRVKE Travel DSLR & Laptop Backpack
I’ve been a Fuji photographer for a few years now. I came from the Canon camp and left at least partially because I didn’t think the Canon platform was keeping up technically with the competition. But I also switched because I was just bored with my gear and yearned for a camera body that challenged my creativity in a way that my very first analog Minolta 100 SRT had done back in the 1980s. The Fujifilm X-T3 had just been released when I considered switching platforms and it seemed as if the entire photography world was abuzz and impressed with its technical specifications and retro aesthetic. But the camera’s retro look was not just a design statement, not just a trendy trick to lure influencers with.
I loved the layout of the camera’s dials and programmable control buttons as they provide me with exactly what I needed, a more mindful photography experience. It was a breath of fresh air and I felt invigorated by having to “learn” the new layout in order to use the camera’s many features professionally. Also, most of the XF Fujifilm lenses have an aperture ring, and I just love having that level of control directly on the lens.
Despite the arrival of the Fujifilm X-T4 and all of its fabulous features, I still feel that the Fujifilm X-T3 is a great alternative for both still photographers and filmmakers. The film features on this camera are just stunning! Being able to film at 60p (59fps) at a 4k 200Mbit/s resolution is incredibly useful. For example, if your film project is going to be edited on a 1080p timeline, the 4k resolution will enable you to zoom in on your footage as if you had a two camera setup during filming.
The Fujifilm X-T3 is robustly built and though not fully weather-sealed, it does offer more than enough protection against normal wear and tear. I can’t recommend this camera body enough.
https://raboffphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Fujifilm-XT-3-Mirrorless-Camera-Black.jpg10171500adminadmin2021-12-09 13:21:582021-12-09 13:26:39Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) Black
As far as I can remember, which is admittedly a shrinking timeframe, I’ve always had a case for my Apple laptops (the only computer brand I’ve ever owned). It’s really never made any sense to me not to have some solid protection for a machine that I depend on for work and that represents a respectable investment.
I totally get why some don’t feel the same about their laptops. Especially if you’re working on a generic PC where all you work with are documents stored in the cloud and not locally on your portable computer. In these scenarios, if the PC breaks down, you could basically pick up any laptop and continue working where you left off. I could never do that as the apps I use for video editing, image retouching, and writing are all stored on my laptop’s local drive. Not to mention all the graphics and other assets I use in my film projects. So, adding a case to my Macbook Pro is a simple (and stylish) way to have some extra protection against it getting busted beyond use.
And the Twelve South BookBook V2 for my 16″ MacBook Pro in Vintage Full-Grain Leather is perfect for my needs. It’s certainly not very light nor particularly discreet. But the case is sturdy and offers a level of rigidity that allows me to feel relaxed whenever I carry it with me as is or slide it into my Think Tank Airport International cabin stroller or stuff it into my WANDR photography backpack. I can’t recall how many times people have asked me what kind of large book I’m carrying around whenever they see the case. And then when I zip it open and reveal a shiny aluminum 16” laptop, they have a hard time not showing their surprise. Last but not least, by providing your Macbook Pro with a hefty case like this, you’ll probably extend its lifespan. And because you’ll also avoid scratches and dents, the case will help maintain its second-hand value.
Thanks for buying this case via my Amazon affiliate link and supporting this blog.
https://raboffphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Twelve-South-Leather-Case-Macbook-Pro-16.jpg12541500adminadmin2021-12-09 12:34:222021-12-09 12:36:12The Twelve South Vintage case for 16″ MacBook Pro
In the full-frame world of camera sensors, this is the equivalent of a 16-35mm lens. At 10mm (16mm) the Fuji 10-24mm f4 WR offers an extreme wide-angle perspective that distorts the field of view quite noticeably. Much of this warping can however be corrected or tilt-shifted in applications like Lightroom. At 24mm (35mm), the Fuji 10-24mm f4 WR is a really useful portrait lens. With the IS button switched to on, it offers decent versatility in regards to shutter/aperture. I think the Fuji 10-24mm f4 WR is a great zoom lens, but it does take some time to master. Once you do, though, you’ll often reach for it!
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
Despite being a behemoth of a lens, whenever I do use the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 100-400mm OIS f 4.5 5.6 WR, I know it will perform excellently. This is truly a must-have lens if you’re heading for a safari. But also an affordable choice for birdies, and even for extremely long focal-length film scenes. I’ve also used it for commercial portrait shoots on a couple of occasions and a few times even for discreet street photography projects. But it’s obviously only stealthy if you’re a few hundred feet away from your subject. Though sturdy, it is quite heavy, so, I highly recommend using this lens mounted on a monopod or tripod.
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
After twenty years of shooting with full-frame sensors, it still drives me a little nuts that APS-C camera makers still insist on using a conversion to calculate a lens’s field of view. Anyway, the XF 16mm f/1.4 R WR is Fujifilm’s APS-C answer to Canon’s full-frame EF 24mm f/1.4L II lens. In addition to being a great general purpose wide-angle lens, what makes this glass extra useful is that it also allows you to get super close, almost at a macro level, to your subjects. Build quality is superb and though a bit too wide for single portraits, it is an excellent choice for group shots as the excellent focus is maintained from center to edge.
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
https://raboffphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Fujinon-XF-16mm-f1.4-lens.jpg12271500adminadmin2021-12-09 11:59:512021-12-09 11:59:51The Formidable Fujifilm XF 16mm f1.4 R WR
The Fuji Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 for X-mount cameras is made of metal and has a 62mm filter thread. It weighs just 398g, has up to 0.7m close focus range, and offers tack-sharp and ultra-accurate image captures. Folks, this is a truly superb short tele lens for all kinds of Fuji photographers. And if you’ve ever had serious thoughts about switching camera platforms, this lens is a great reason to finally do so. In addition to being one of the very finest lenses in the entire Fujinon lineup, the XF56mmF1.2 R’s build quality is top-notch. The lens offers beautiful bokeh at all of the lower aperture values.
I’ve used this lens for a couple of years now and I can only think of two other lenses that performed equally well for portraits (but are much slower at focusing): Zeiss 85mm f 1.8 and Canon’s 135mm f2.0.
I’ve also used the Fujinon XF56mm f1.2 R for a ton of film work. While not a cine quality glass, it’s definitely a fabulously versatile lens for film projects, especially low light scenes.
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
BORNHOLM, DENMARK
in Blog /by adminGitzo GT3542L Mountaineer Tripod
in Blog, Tripods /by adminAs far as I can remember, I’ve always had at least one Gitzo tripod in my kit. The brand is legendary and represents a level of quality that suits both my budget and creative needs perfectly. The Gitzo GT3542L Mountaineer Tripod is versatile insofar that it offers both ease-of-use that make it my go-to tool for lighter workloads and is light enough for location projects.
Thank you for supporting my gear blog by buying this recommended tripod via my Amazon affiliate link.
G-Technology G DRIVE 10 TB USB
in Misc Gear /by adminI’ve been using Backblaze for my online backups for close to a decade and a couple of these reliable drives for my daily onsite copies of ongoing film and photo projects as well as archived material. These drives are reliable, reasonably quiet, and don’t take up much space on my desk. In addition, the G-Technology G DRIVE 10 TB USB aluminum cases are stackable.
Thanks for buying one or more of these drives via my Amazon affiliate link and by doing so, supporting my efforts here on this gear blog.
WANDRD Original PRVKE Travel DSLR & Laptop Backpack
in Bags/Cases /by adminThroughout my career, I’ve owned about two dozen camera and film cases as well as plenty of backpacks from most of the major brand names. I’m fairly picky about features, quality, and looks. When I first saw the WANDRD Original PRVKE Travel DSLR & Laptop Backpack (photo bundle), I knew I’d found a new favorite camera bag.
Not only does it have an adequately padded compartment for my Macbook Pro 16” (even fitting it with the Twelve South Leather case), it also came with a detachable compartment for my Fuji XT-3 with a telephoto lens mounted. And if I remove that zipped camera pouch, the WANDRD instantly becomes a great overnight bag with plenty of space for all kinds of stuff.
There are plenty of small pockets all over the bag and even one for a small travel tripod or monopod. The shoulder straps are infinitely adjustable and I really like the smartly positioned fabric handles on top. They connect with a magnet on either handle. Overall, this camera bag is well-made and equally important, offers a design that is thought-through. Function over form all the way!
Thank you for buying this camera bag from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) Black
in Cameras /by adminI’ve been a Fuji photographer for a few years now. I came from the Canon camp and left at least partially because I didn’t think the Canon platform was keeping up technically with the competition. But I also switched because I was just bored with my gear and yearned for a camera body that challenged my creativity in a way that my very first analog Minolta 100 SRT had done back in the 1980s. The Fujifilm X-T3 had just been released when I considered switching platforms and it seemed as if the entire photography world was abuzz and impressed with its technical specifications and retro aesthetic. But the camera’s retro look was not just a design statement, not just a trendy trick to lure influencers with.
I loved the layout of the camera’s dials and programmable control buttons as they provide me with exactly what I needed, a more mindful photography experience. It was a breath of fresh air and I felt invigorated by having to “learn” the new layout in order to use the camera’s many features professionally. Also, most of the XF Fujifilm lenses have an aperture ring, and I just love having that level of control directly on the lens.
Despite the arrival of the Fujifilm X-T4 and all of its fabulous features, I still feel that the Fujifilm X-T3 is a great alternative for both still photographers and filmmakers. The film features on this camera are just stunning! Being able to film at 60p (59fps) at a 4k 200Mbit/s resolution is incredibly useful. For example, if your film project is going to be edited on a 1080p timeline, the 4k resolution will enable you to zoom in on your footage as if you had a two camera setup during filming.
The Fujifilm X-T3 is robustly built and though not fully weather-sealed, it does offer more than enough protection against normal wear and tear. I can’t recommend this camera body enough.
Thank you for buying this superb camera from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
The Twelve South Vintage case for 16″ MacBook Pro
in Bags/Cases /by adminAs far as I can remember, which is admittedly a shrinking timeframe, I’ve always had a case for my Apple laptops (the only computer brand I’ve ever owned). It’s really never made any sense to me not to have some solid protection for a machine that I depend on for work and that represents a respectable investment.
I totally get why some don’t feel the same about their laptops. Especially if you’re working on a generic PC where all you work with are documents stored in the cloud and not locally on your portable computer. In these scenarios, if the PC breaks down, you could basically pick up any laptop and continue working where you left off. I could never do that as the apps I use for video editing, image retouching, and writing are all stored on my laptop’s local drive. Not to mention all the graphics and other assets I use in my film projects. So, adding a case to my Macbook Pro is a simple (and stylish) way to have some extra protection against it getting busted beyond use.
And the Twelve South BookBook V2 for my 16″ MacBook Pro in Vintage Full-Grain Leather is perfect for my needs. It’s certainly not very light nor particularly discreet. But the case is sturdy and offers a level of rigidity that allows me to feel relaxed whenever I carry it with me as is or slide it into my Think Tank Airport International cabin stroller or stuff it into my WANDR photography backpack. I can’t recall how many times people have asked me what kind of large book I’m carrying around whenever they see the case. And then when I zip it open and reveal a shiny aluminum 16” laptop, they have a hard time not showing their surprise. Last but not least, by providing your Macbook Pro with a hefty case like this, you’ll probably extend its lifespan. And because you’ll also avoid scratches and dents, the case will help maintain its second-hand value.
Thanks for buying this case via my Amazon affiliate link and supporting this blog.
A versatile tool: Fujifilm Fujinon 10-24mm f4 WR
in Lenses /by adminIn the full-frame world of camera sensors, this is the equivalent of a 16-35mm lens. At 10mm (16mm) the Fuji 10-24mm f4 WR offers an extreme wide-angle perspective that distorts the field of view quite noticeably. Much of this warping can however be corrected or tilt-shifted in applications like Lightroom. At 24mm (35mm), the Fuji 10-24mm f4 WR is a really useful portrait lens. With the IS button switched to on, it offers decent versatility in regards to shutter/aperture. I think the Fuji 10-24mm f4 WR is a great zoom lens, but it does take some time to master. Once you do, though, you’ll often reach for it!
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
The Unpocketable Fujifilm Fujinon XF 100-400mm OIS f 4.5 5.6 WR
in Lenses /by adminDespite being a behemoth of a lens, whenever I do use the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 100-400mm OIS f 4.5 5.6 WR, I know it will perform excellently. This is truly a must-have lens if you’re heading for a safari. But also an affordable choice for birdies, and even for extremely long focal-length film scenes. I’ve also used it for commercial portrait shoots on a couple of occasions and a few times even for discreet street photography projects. But it’s obviously only stealthy if you’re a few hundred feet away from your subject. Though sturdy, it is quite heavy, so, I highly recommend using this lens mounted on a monopod or tripod.
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
The Formidable Fujifilm XF 16mm f1.4 R WR
in Lenses /by adminAfter twenty years of shooting with full-frame sensors, it still drives me a little nuts that APS-C camera makers still insist on using a conversion to calculate a lens’s field of view. Anyway, the XF 16mm f/1.4 R WR is Fujifilm’s APS-C answer to Canon’s full-frame EF 24mm f/1.4L II lens. In addition to being a great general purpose wide-angle lens, what makes this glass extra useful is that it also allows you to get super close, almost at a macro level, to your subjects. Build quality is superb and though a bit too wide for single portraits, it is an excellent choice for group shots as the excellent focus is maintained from center to edge.
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.
A Wenderful Lens: Fujinon XF 56mm f1.2
in Lenses /by adminThe Fuji Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 for X-mount cameras is made of metal and has a 62mm filter thread. It weighs just 398g, has up to 0.7m close focus range, and offers tack-sharp and ultra-accurate image captures. Folks, this is a truly superb short tele lens for all kinds of Fuji photographers. And if you’ve ever had serious thoughts about switching camera platforms, this lens is a great reason to finally do so. In addition to being one of the very finest lenses in the entire Fujinon lineup, the XF56mmF1.2 R’s build quality is top-notch. The lens offers beautiful bokeh at all of the lower aperture values.
I’ve used this lens for a couple of years now and I can only think of two other lenses that performed equally well for portraits (but are much slower at focusing): Zeiss 85mm f 1.8 and Canon’s 135mm f2.0.
I’ve also used the Fujinon XF56mm f1.2 R for a ton of film work. While not a cine quality glass, it’s definitely a fabulously versatile lens for film projects, especially low light scenes.
Thank you for buying this superb lens from Amazon via my affiliate link and supporting this blog.