Category: Vfxpro

The 4 Best Photography Backdrops in 2024
Choosing backdrops is one of the best ways to introduce personality and style to your video or photography set. Whether you are shooting products or people, the backdrop behind your subject plays a significant role in the quality of your image. Cluttered backgrounds can be distracting and direct attention away from the subject. More so, if you want to sell products online, a cluttered image may not appeal to the audience.

Even if selecting a backdrop seems easy, there are some key factors that you should consider to ensure the best results. These include the size of the studio, the subject, purpose of the photographs, and more. We have developed this guide to help you make a better decision when investing in a backdrop for your needs.

Neewer 2.6M x 3M/8.5ft x 10ft Background Support System (Best Overall)

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With the Neewer 2.6M background support system, you have a reliable and lightweight solution for your photography needs. This unit comes with all the features you would want in a reliable photography backdrop. For instance, it features solid three safety stages, which are ideal for stable for heavy-duty work. More so, the quick single action locks, offer fast precision height adjustment, thus making the backdrop convenient for your needs.

Featuring a white translucent structure, this unit can broaden and diffuse the light output of any flash source. More so, the daylight available on this unit shines bright and can deliver an exceptional output of 5500k. The makers of this unit have also done well to include an adjustable lamp holder, which can suit various shooting angles.

With a white front cover which closes the front of the softbox, you will enjoy varied light options with convenience. The extra-long cords also move freely for the best lighting results. The ultimate soft light stream and remove shadow make up for excellent shooting results, especially when shooting in bright light.

The Good
- Comes with single headlight holder
- Solid safety three legs stages
- 5500K fluorescent spiral bulb generates quality light
- Available with accessories for convenience
The Bad
- The bulb is not powerful enough
- Could use light intensity functions
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Emart Photo Video Studio Backdrop Stand Adjustable Photography Muslin Background (Best $50 – $75)

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Sturdy, durable, and easy to set up. These are just some of the few words you can use to describe the Emart Phot Video Studio. This unit features a heavy-duty backdrop stand kit, with an exceptional 1.4-inch diameter tube. Thus, it’s perfect for use at home, the studio, or even outdoors. Furthermore, the support stand also features an in-built dual spring cushion, which makes it stable on most surfaces. Made using 100% aluminum material, this unit is stable and will never wobble even when used outdoors.

The inclusion of a crossbar, with a flexible structure, makes the backdrop highly convenient. It won’t sag when the hang backdrops even within 35lbs. Moreover, the makers of this unit have done well to include premium quality nylon material, and with a sturdy zipper. This way, you can easily lock up your items and transport them to safe locations.

Furthermore, this unit is easy to set up and for holding seamless canvas, muslin, paper, and more. It is also perfect for photo shooting, the outdoors, and on-site use. Featuring a heavy-duty carry bag, this unit is easy to transport to your preferred location.

The Good
- 1.4-inch diameter tube and sturdy structure
- Comes with inbuilt dual spring cushion
- Available with premium accessories such as premium quality bag
- Double springed cushion design
The Bad
- N/A
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Julius Studio Photo Video Studio 10 ft. Wide Cross Bar 7.3 ft. Tall Backdrop (Best Between $25 and $50)

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The Julius Studio Photo Video Studio is the perfect solution for your photography needs. This unit comes with several components to make it ideal for shooting various types of photos and videography projects. It’s a fully-featured kit that features one male and one female crossbar component. Furthermore, the professional lightweight support structure is ideal for backdrops and more.

It even has an aluminum alloy construction, which is durable and also highly portable. For flexibility, this unit has a unique height and width adjustment function for your convenience. The best part is that the entire set even comes with an instructional manual for your convenience.

Equipped with stable and reinforced legs, this tall backdrop never falls down, which makes it ideal for traffic-laden areas such as studios.

The Good
- Complete photography studio kit
- Aluminum alloy construction offers durability and portability
- Offers comfortable and strong grip
- Stable and reinforced legs
The Bad
- The grip is not durable enough
- Could use an improved stand finish
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Neewer 6 x 9FT / 1.8 x 2.8M Photo Studio 100% Pure Muslin Collapsible Backdrop Background (Best Under $25)

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Taking your favorite photographs has never been this easy. Why? Well, the Newer Collapsible Background makes up for the perfect resource you can use to improve your photography regimen. It features a unique rod pocket on each top edge, which makes it easy to be draped or hung. Even more, the photography background is also finished along all edges to prevent issues such as tearing.

Made using 100% pure cotton, this unit offers an excellent vertical sense, and it’s also durable. With such a unique diversity of features, this Neewer Backdrop Background is suitable for various applications. These include video production, digital photography, and more.

Whether you are portrait shooting, product photography, or video shooting, this best Backdrop Background is perfect for needs. It’s also collapsible to make it easy to carry around.

The Good
- Rod pocket on each top edge for easy installation
- Made using 100% finished cotton material
- Durable and anti-wrinkle in a single-piece design
- Thick and excellent balance of weight
The Bad
- Could use better bases for the stands
- The collapsible structure locks hard
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Overall

There is no space for poor decision making or insufficient improvisation when you want to take high quality images. You need the right resources, and you have to produce the best results possible. Thus, with the best photography backdrops, you are one step closer to making a good impression on your client or audience. An excellent backdrop is simple to set up and provides you with many customization options you can use for photography.
February 17, 2020
The Best HDR Software Options Compared in 2024
High Dynamic Range (HDR) is an effect in photography whereby two or more images are combined, each with differing exposure settings. This allows for a wider range from the darkest black (from one image) to the lightest white (of another), and of course the “grey” areas in between.

HDR features are built into many of todays cameras, even smartphones, however for the photographer that wants more discreet control over how the ranges are combined, and of course final control over the output, these systems aren’t good enough.

In order to take control over your HDR, you’ll need a cameras that is either a DSLR or has an interchangeable lens.

A camera that allows for Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB), which essentially takes multiple shots at different exposure levels automatically without the need for manual changes, will get you the frames you need to process via HDR software and attain the desired results.

So now that we’ve covered that background, let’s dive into the HDR Software that is the best choice for you:

1. Aurora HDR

Aurora HDR is another very widely used HDR software. Made in conjunction with Skylum and Trey Ratcliff, Aurora HDR claims to be the “world’s most advanced HDR photo editor”, It also claims to be the ‘most powerful, simple and fast’ HDR software.

The release of Aurora HDR 2019 includes some significant upgrades, including leverage an AI powered “Quantum HDR Engine”, several new plugins and integrations (such as Photoshop and Photolemur) and many additional improvements upon 2018 and previous versions.

Furthermore, the software has warranted props from some significant figures in the photography industry, such as Jerry Ghionis and Joel Grimes.

Let’s take a quick dive in to the features/functions of Aurora HDR!

Key Features to Aurora HDR 2019

“Quantum HDR” – Upgraded HDR Algorithm

In previous versions you may have had to do manual cleanup of initial photos, such as removing noise, halo effects, etc. With the new Quantum HDR Engine, it does all this automatically, with a “mild” effect that can be further enhanced in later stages.

It claims to handle RAW files much better than previous versions. Tony claims that about 75% of his HDR projects are handled with a single RAW file.

Lots of Presets

It comes with at least 10 presets, which are now referred to as “Looks” in the 2019 version (not to be confused with Lookup Tables or LUTs, which are covered below). These “looks” come with very quirky and creative names like “Four in the Pink” and “Nether Try That Again”.

With these presets you can further tinker with them, as their are tons of sliders for over a dozen different aspects.

Speaking of sliders:

Easily Adjustable Levels via Sliders

To name just a few of the adjustable levels:
- Contrast
- Smart Tone
- Highlights
- Shadows
- Whites
- Blacks
- Saturation
- Vibrance
- Color Contrast
- HDR Clarity
- HDR Smart Structure
- HDR Microstructure
- HDR Denoise
The most remarkable of these are the “HDR Enhance” versions, which can be utilized to tinker with the presets, or make your own HDR effect from scratch.

Combine these with the brush tool and you can affect a specific portion of the image, so it’s not “all or nothing”.

Lookup Tables – LUTs

Lookup Tables, or LUTs, are essentially a series of numbers which are referenced in order for the software to change colors of an image. These can work to give a “signature” or “personality” to an image that can be specific to an individual photographer. There are many cameras that have built in LUT capability but this allows for more controlled post production.

RAW Files + Lightroom

One big advantage that Aurora has over other options like Photomatix is its handling of RAW files. With Photomatix you cannot import RAW files through plugins like Lightroom, you would instead need to import directly from the files on your hard drive. However with Aurora you can go directly through your favorite integrations and handle RAW files.

Bottom Line – Pricing

Pricing for Aurora HDR is a one-time fee (no monthly subscription). However you don’t get major version upgrades for free, but they do offer significant discounts for previous customers. The current price is $99.

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2. EasyHDR

Next on the list is EasyHDR, a product that has been around for quite some time. It always seems to make its way to top of many of these “Best HDR Software” lists, and for good reason.

While it may not have all the bells and whistles of programs like Aurora, people are always blown away by the final quality of the images.

At the end of the day, isn’t the quality of the images what it’s all about?

The other thing to keep in mind is the price. It’s less than $40 for a home license. As someone who is serious about the photography craft, I’d pick up a license just for comparison purposes.

Oh, and it’s got a free demo version, even better!

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4. Photomatix Pro

Photomatix Pro is likely the oldest HDR software on the market. Many OG’s in the digital photography game may recognize Photomatix as the very first HDR software they used. They’ve recently released version 6.0, and it includes a few significant improvements to add on to already robust software offering enjoyed by thousands of photography professionals.

Key Features to Photomatix 6 Pro

Tone Balancer

If you aren’t careful with HDR processes, it can end up with a result that doesn’t look realistic at all. If your purpose is to enhance a realistic landscape and better convey the full beauty of it, you should be careful not to over-do it. The end result could look like a hyper-real, almost video game style graphic, not necessarily what we want. (To be fair, if that is what you want, there’s nothing wrong with that).

Ultimately the effect of the HDR with depend on personal preference and purpose of the project, so use accordingly!

One of the best ways to personalize the HDR effects is to go for the “Tone Balancer” feature of Photomatix Pro 6.

“Remove Ghosts”

When dealing with multiple images at different exposures, it’s possible you may have captured some moving elements like people walking or birds flying. With the built in “Remove Ghosts” feature you can help reduce the noise/blur associated with the moving elements. This is crucial, as the real world often doesn’t stand still for us for very long!

Perspective Correction

When using handheld cameras there will always be some slight movement. Of course you can always use a tripod to help avoid this, but Photomatix has built-in “perspective correction” to help eliminate this and align all the shots.

Presets

Like many editing tools, Photomatix offers presets to allow you to save time and effort when working on projects. It offers 4 categories of effect-style presets and 5 categories of HDR-style presets, these include:
- Black & White (effect)
- Artistic (effect)
- Realistic (effect)
- Architecture (effect)
- Details Enhancer (HDR style)
- Contrast Optimizer (HDR style)
- Tone Balancer (HDR style)
- Tone Compressor (HDR style)
- Fusion (HDR style)
The software also allows for custom presets that you can set as you work through your projects. This is great if you find a balance of levels that is personalized for you and not available elsewhere, and you’d like to re-use on multiple projects.

3. Adobe HDR Photo Merge (Lightroom)

If you don’t want to go all out with a dedicated HDR software, there are some options you can try within your version of Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. They have a built in HDR feature called “Photo Merge”.

As the name implies, you can combine multiple images to create an High Dynamic Range image.

It’s not quite as robustly functioned as other software, but it does have some handy options, including:

Auto Tone Feature

Auto-tone is the main function of the merging, and produces a serviceable HDR image without needed to manual adjust the tones. As mentioned before, it’s somewhat of a beginners approach, but good for those just getting started.

Auto Align Feature

Good for straightening photos that aren’t perfectly aligned, the auto align feature does a decent job. This is similar to other align functions in other software, and necessary to properly combine multiple images into one HDR.

De-ghosting Feature

Just like other software, getting rid of ghosts is important in product High Dynamic Range images. Adobe Photo Merge has a built in feature for this, with adjustable settings (High, Medium, Low, and None).
February 6, 2020
Best Tablets for Photographers in 2024

When it comes to photography, being able to capture a special moment is not enough. You need to also invest in proper post-production equipment so that you can edit the beautiful moments. Adjusting exposures, shadows, highlights, fixing white balances and removing unwanted objects can make all the difference in your edited photos.
Technology has evolved, and editing has never been more portable and easy than it is now. Companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Samsung among others have continued to improve the screen resolution, graphics while enhancing the capability of the tablets to run most photo apps. This means that you can easily edit your photos while on the move without necessarily having to carry your laptop around.

Even with the benefits that you can get as a photographer using a tablet to edit your photos, choosing a tablet for editing isn’t as easy as most people think. Unlike someone buying a tablet for e-reading, there are certain factors that you have to consider such as the speed, specs, screen resolution and storage space for your editing apps. That’s why we have picked the best four tablets that you can buy to make your work easier.

1. iPad Pro 10.5

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Introduction

The iPad Pro 10.5-inch is built for the professional photographer. It has amazing features that make it ideal for photo editing.

Pros

With a 10.5-inch Retina Display and a screen resolution of 1668 by 2224, this is one of the best tablets for most photographers and artists alike. You can comfortably use the tablet for 10 hours with just one charge and has a slim design which means it won’t take up a lot of space in your backpack or carrier bag.

For optimal sound, the tablet has four inbuilt speakers which means you can comfortably enjoy some music as you work. You can also use the tablet for alternative media consumption. While it may not be a laptop replacement for all photographers, it certainly is for those that prefer to get the job done while on the go.

The Apple app store also has lots of features with over a hundred different photo editing apps such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom that allows you to easily sync your work from your desktop or computer.

Cons

Apple Pencil and screen sold separately hence making it expensive.

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2. Microsoft Surface Pro

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Introduction

Microsoft is a tech giant in the industry and is known for producing quality gadgets and its no wonder the Microsoft Surface Pro features in our review list. The 2-in-1 device can be used as a laptop and as a tablet.

Pros

If you are torn between choosing a tablet or a laptop, then worry no more. And we mean it. The Microsoft Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 device that can be used either as a tablet or a laptop. The tablet has a sleek design and is also lightweight. With one single charge, the tablet can give you up to 13.5 hours of battery life which is significantly higher than its predecessor.

Thanks to the excellent screen resolution, you can edit and view your photos in superb quality. You can use the pen to adjust and make edits to your photos, making your editing fun and easy. You also have the optional keyboard and an integrated kickstand.

Microsoft calls it their “fastest Surface Pro ever” thanks to the Intel Core grade processor and their “lightest Surface Pro yet” weighing just about 1.69lbs. It’s a top pick for C-Suite executives, media personnel as well as creative professionals.

Cons

The Microsoft Surface Pen and Signature Type cover are sold separately adding to the already expensive cost of purchasing the tablet only.

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3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S3

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Introduction

If you love using an Android interface as compared to iOS or Windows, then the Samsung Galaxy Tablet S3 is fully equipped with all you need for your photography work.

Pros

With a 12-hour battery life and a screen resolution of 2048 by 1536 pixel display, you can comfortably view and edit your photos. It has a storage space of 32GB and RAM of 4GB. The best part is that it has a microSD card slot that allows up to 400GB of additional space.

This device has an HDR screen, comes with an S Pen Stylus that comes in handy especially when editing your photos and four speakers that sound just as great as the ones found on the iPad Pro tablets. You can also use the tablet for your own media consumption as well as video playback.

The S Pen is a lot more accurate and very pressure-responsive. Besides, you don’t need to charge it which gives you freedom when editing.

Cons

Keyboard sold separately making it a costly extra.

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4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S4

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Introduction

Being an upgrade from the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3, you can be sure that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 boasts of some amazing features and some great improvements from its predecessor.

Pros

Just like its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 comes with an S Pen included in the package. It has a large 10.5-inch screen that is ideal for both your editing and viewing needs. It also has a longer battery life compared to the S3 even though it will cost you more.

It comes with the Samsung DeX feature that allows you to transform the tablet into a PC and has superb mics that can allow you to customize your tablet and use voice command. Just like its predecessor, you can also benefit from the external storage.

Cons

The Desktop DeX interface is sluggish and can do with some upgrade.

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Final Thoughts

Just as different photographers own different equipment depending on their line of work, the same isn’t different when it comes to investing in a tablet. There are of course common considerations that all photographers should have such as storage space, whether the tablet can run the photo editing apps they have as well as speed among others.

Ensure that before you purchase a tablet, you first note all your photography work needs. This way, you will be able to invest in a tablet that is suitable to your own needs.

October 22, 2018
Best External Hard Drives for Photographers (Lightweight, Durable and High Capacity)

Any photographer understands the importance of being able to back up photos using an external hard drive. Even if you own some of the best SSDs, it’s very possible that you can easily run out of storage space and hence really important that you have a backup for your photography work. You, however, need to be keen when shopping for an external hard drive.

You need to think about important details such as having enough storage space, data transfer speeds, light for portability and a hard drive that is both rugged and dependable. Today, it’s possible to buy hard drives that have up to 4TB of space. Knowing how significant it is for you to find the right external hard drive for your work, we have reviewed some of the best hard drives that you can consider investing in.

1. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC Hard Drive

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Introduction

The Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC hard drive is a portable, rugged hard drive that comes with a special wrap-around USB cable as well as secure hardware encryption.

Pros

The external hard drive has an inbuilt NFC technology that makes it possible for users to unlock and access their files using the smart card included without the need to remember a password. Besides, it’s a hard drive that you can afford without breaking the bank. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac machines and is very flexible.

The rugged case makes the hard drive resistant to both water and dust. This means that if you get rained on, or your hard drive falls into a puddle of water, you can be rest assured that your files will be okay. In addition, the rugged shell design also helps protect your data in case the hard drive falls down and comes with the NFC (Near Field Communication) feature and 256-bit AES security feature.

This external hard drive can also be purchased in two available sizes, the 1TB, and the 2TB. So, depending on your needs and files you need to back up, you can buy the size that makes sense for you.

Cons

Despite its amazing security features, it’s not the fastest when it comes to transferring files.

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2. Western Digital 4TB My Passport Hard Drive

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Introduction

If you’re looking for an external hard drive that has great capacity and some admirable speeds and is affordable for most people, then the Western Digital 4TB My Passport is your best buy.

Pros

This particular hard drive features a cloud storage, an encryption of 256-AES, auto backup plus Western Digital’s own backup software. It performs above average compared to most of its competitors when it comes to data transfer speeds.

The Western Digital My Passport hard drive is available in four different capacities – 1TB, 2TB, 3TB, and 4TB. In addition, it also comes in six different colors – red, white, blue, orange, yellow and black – giving you a wide range of options to choose from in terms of colors.

It is compatible with some Windows operating systems while it requires reformatting for the Mac OS X operating system. It has a 3.0 USB port but is also compatible with a 2.0 USB.

For the amount of storage space, the hard drive is quite affordable compared to its competitors.

Cons

The shell material is plastic which means it can easily break.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/White-Passport-Portable-External-Drive/dp/B01LQQHBNU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=WD+4TB+White+My+Passport+Portable+External+Hard+Drive+-+USB+3.0+-+WDBYFT0040BWT-WESN&qid=1539883162&s=Electronics&sr=1-1-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=847ce8e20fbd2e5a0d21a81f2bf6f27d&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

3. Transcend 256GB Portable SSD

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Transcend-256GB-External-Solid-TS256GESD400K/dp/B00JQRB0I4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Transcend+256GB+USB+3.0+External+Solid+State+Drive+(TS256GESD400K)&qid=1540011245&s=Electronics&sr=1-1-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=5bee3537e13aa060bb00e719b8145141&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

Introduction

The Transcend 256GB portable SSD external hard drive is available in four different capacities starting from 128GB to 1TB.

Pros

The fact that this Transcend hard drive has – a 128GB capacity – which no other hard drive in this review has, makes the 128GB option way affordable than most external hard drives in our review. However, just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean it’ll be suitable for your needs. You must factor in the amount of space you need your hard drive to have. Alternatively, you can opt for other large capacities.

This hard drive has some impressive video, and image read speeds with the write rates being a bit modest. It weighs only 56g and is extremely compact. There is a one-touch auto-backup button that makes it convenient and easy for you to synchronize your backups coupled with the Transcend Elite software.

Being the size of a playing card means that the hard drive is easily portable. It has a USB 3.0 SuperSpeed and USB 2.0 connections with a connection bandwidth of up to 5Gbits per second.

Cons

It has a write performance that is relatively slow and is too expensive when compared to other competitor models.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Transcend-256GB-External-Solid-TS256GESD400K/dp/B00JQRB0I4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Transcend+256GB+USB+3.0+External+Solid+State+Drive+(TS256GESD400K)&qid=1540011245&s=Electronics&sr=1-1-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=5bee3537e13aa060bb00e719b8145141&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

4. Western Digital 4TB Desktop RAID External Hard Drive

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Introduction

If you are in the market shopping for the ultimate external hard drive that offers a huge storage capacity from 3TB to 20TB, then the Western Digital 4TB Desktop RAID external hard drive is your best buy.

Pros

This is the perfect external hard drive for a photographer that gets a lot of gigs and needs an external hard drive with a huge capacity. Besides, the hard drive also has a system and auto backup.

The RAID allows you to backup your files in case one of the drives crashes. However, you might need to sacrifice some of the storage space on your drive. The USB 3.0 drive has lots of features that make it a fully-fledged NAS device. If the router contains a USB port that is 3.0, you could opt to use this device as a network attached storage.

The device comes with a two-year warranty, has a hardware encryption of 256-bits AES and the WD SmartWare Pro automatic backup software. The best part is that if you are Windows user, you will receive the hard drive already pre-formatted for you by the WD team.

Cons

Requires two free USB 3.0 ports and is very expensive.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Book-Desktop-External-Drive-WDBFBE0040JBK-NESN/dp/B074R31BNS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=WD+4TB+My+Book+Duo+Desktop+RAID+External+Hard+Drive+-+USB+3.1+-+WDBFBE0040JBK-NESN&qid=1540012664&s=Electronics&sr=1-1-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=b0ba8681ad2f8919ede63dc2dc99a4c1&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

Final Thoughts

As a photographer, you really don’t want to lose your work because of one or two reasons. As such, it is important that you invest in a durable and dependable external hard drive. Your main focus requires to be on the space so that you don’t end up buying a hard drive with a lot of space that you won’t even use. Remember, the more storage space you need, the more money you will have to spend.

October 22, 2018
The Best Backpacks for Photographers and Drones – Compact, Lightweight and Affordable

As a photographer, carrying your gear can be quite a challenge especially if you don’t have the right bag for the job. Every photographer needs to have their entire kit protected and safe at all times regardless of whether they are hiking up the mountain to capture the sunrise or are commuting to an event with their gear in hand.

Fortunately, there are different bag options that photographers have for carrying their equipment. And while some may prefer slinger bags or holsters, there is a crop of photographers who love backups as it allows them to balance the weight of their equipment easily on their back. Some of the bags featured in our review are ideal for mirrorless cameras as well as DSLRs which have interchangeable lenses that need some thought when you are mobile.
In addition, there are those that also gives room for a laptop or a tablet for when you need to do your post-processing which is quite important to digital photography.

1. Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Backpack

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-51D-Backpack-Nikon-Drones/dp/B06W9MF8MH/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Vanguard+Alta+Sky+51D+Backpack+for+Sony,+Nikon,+Canon,+DSLR,+Drones&qid=1540014185&s=Electronics&sr=1-1-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=e2c542db39b4fae2f6b65029410f007e&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

Introduction

With the need to carry all your gear including your drone, this bag has room for all your equipment and accessories without necessarily making you break a bank.

Pros

While it’s tough to design the ultimate backpack for a photographer, the Vanguard Alta Sky 51D backpack is quite versatile. This is because the bag has been designed to not only carry your camera gear but a drone as well or both. The backpack’s main compartment has enough room for a D850 and can carry up to four lenses and an additional lens of between 70-200mm. There is a separate compartment at the base that allows you to store small lenses.

Knowing how important padding is for a photographer backpack, you can rest be assured that the padding on this bag is top notch. The design has an ergonomic harness, waist belt as well as an air system back. The bag is well organized and has lots of dedicated pockets for organizing and connecting all your essentials. And yes, you can also carry your own bottle of water thanks to the side pockets.

The backpack also has room for a 15-inch laptop or a tablet as well as additional space for your tripod should you need one. It also has a pull-out rain cover for rainy days.

Cons

It is quite heavy, and because it has a lot of space, it is possible to overload.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-51D-Backpack-Nikon-Drones/dp/B06W9MF8MH/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Vanguard+Alta+Sky+51D+Backpack+for+Sony,+Nikon,+Canon,+DSLR,+Drones&qid=1540014185&s=Electronics&sr=1-1-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=e2c542db39b4fae2f6b65029410f007e&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

2. Manfrotto Advanced Rear Backpack

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Introduction

The Manfrotto Advanced Rear Backpack is designed in Italy and has a versatile design coupled with compact proportions. That means that it’s not easy for you to overload your backpack.

Pros

The Manfrotto backpack has well-organized compartments for all the gear you need to carry. The lower part of the bag is well padded for storing all your photographic equipment. The padding means that your gear will be well-secured while you are on the go. It can easily hold one DSLR camera and three lenses including a 70-200mm lens thanks to the Manfrotto protection system.

The design is well constructed and has a top section that is roomy for storing your accessories or a packed lunch.

The front pocket can easily hold a small notebook, a 13-inch laptop, a 10-inch tablet, and any other important documents and has a zipper for maximum security. The bag has an extendable size pocket that can easily fit your tripod.

While we can never predict the weather, the bag has a pull-out rain cover at the base which keeps your gear safe when it rains. While the bag can also house a drone, it’s important to ensure that you confirm your drone make first.

Cons

It has a plain design, and the straps could be better.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-MB-MA-BP-R-Advanced-Backpack/dp/B01CTUJDG0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Manfrotto+MB+MA-BP-R+Advanced+Rear+Backpack+(Black)&qid=1540016265&s=Electronics&sr=1-3-fkmrnull&ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_3&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=e36723299eebf068a9e2b17d216b2717&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

3. ONA – The Camps Bay

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Introduction

The ONA – The Camps Bay backpack is a class and luxurious choice and is made for those looking for a little more style in their backpack.

Pros

The backpack is handcrafted and is designed from waxed canvas and leather. It has an impressive look that makes it suitable for outdoor activities especially if your photography is mainly done outdoors. It has a great capacity for holding your equipment without making it obvious that you have carried your gear.

The backpack’s main compartment easily holds a DSLR camera and an attached 70-200mm lens. It also has room for an additional six or seven lenses although you need to place them carefully especially if you plan to move around a lot. There is a laptop compartment that can comfortably fit a 17-inch laptop.

The backpack has a leather undercarriage in case you need to set it down when outside. The shoulder straps have a thick air mesh padding to protect your shoulders and has an adjustable height for your personal accessories.

Cons

It is quite expensive and being that it is made of canvas, the bag can get heavy really quick.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/ONA-Camera-Backpack-Canvas-ONA5-008GR/dp/B00KRK2Q3M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=ONA+The+Camps+Bay&qid=1540016331&sr=8-1&ref=sr_1_1&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=6b9411a562637751f0256a55ab5c7214&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

4. LowePro Tahoe BP 150 Backpack

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Introduction

The LowerPro Tahoe backpack has a versatile layout and is a lot more affordable than some of the bags in our review making it a good investment for those on a tight budget.

Pros

The Tahoe backpack is designed for photographers who have an active photography life. The bag’s main compartment is well-padded and customizable and has a front pocket that is roomy offering lots of storage space for the gear you need including a tablet.

The bag is made from weather resistant material with quilted padding. This means that your gear will always be protected from weather elements. There is an UltraFlex panel on the bag’s main compartment that is foldable creating more room for your personal equipment. The wide zipper means that you can easily store and access your gear.

The external zippered pockets provide more room for smaller items while the stretch-mesh pockets allow you to carry other quick-grab items. You can opt to carry the bag as a backpack or alternatively use the grab handle when you need your shoulders to rest.

Cons

It does not have space for a laptop like other competitor backpacks.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/LowePro-Lightweight-Compact-Backpack-Cameras/dp/B013MC8F5Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=LowePro+Tahoe+BP+150.+Lightweight+Compact+Camera+Backpack+for+Cameras+and+DJI+Spark+Drone+(Black).&qid=1540043206&s=Electronics&sr=1-2-fkmr0&ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2&linkCode=ll1&tag=dpfwiw0a-20&linkId=238e51a2086b9d2443b5c886d47508a7&language=en_US” target=”blank” background=”#ef402d” size=”8″ center=”yes” rel=”nofollow”]View Prices on Amazon![/su_button]

Final Thoughts

There are lots of cool backpacks that photographers can buy for carrying their gear. However, you cannot just choose any backpack as a camera backpack needs to protect your gear. That said, consider the design as well as the durability of the bag. Another important factor is whether the backpack has enough compartments for your gear.
Most importantly, consider the value you will get for your money.

October 22, 2018