TIPA Announces Winners of the TIPA World Awards 2021

TIPA is a worldwide organisation of 25 leading imaging magazines, including Photography News. Each year, TIPA votes for what it considers the best imaging equipment and software across an extensive range of product categories. Here are all the winners from 2020-21.

The Technical Image Press Association has announced the winners of the TIPA World Awards 2021. Along with exciting cameras and lenses covering every category, from entry level to expert to professional, TIPA World Award winners represent the wide range of products and services that make up the imaging industry today, including cameras and lenses, papers and printers, imaging software, still and video accessories, lighting, monitors and more.

TIPA World Award winners represent the wide range of products and services that make up the imaging industry today.

TIPA chairman Thomas Gerwers says: “Each year, we have more products, as well as new and exciting technology that continues to fuel growth. Given the extraordinary circumstances the world and our industry face today, and our hope that we will overcome the current situation, we felt that we should continue to recognise the best imaging products of 2021.

“Now more than ever, our support of the industry and the people who work so hard – be it in production, distribution, or marketing – deserve our thanks and appreciation for their efforts to continue developing new and exciting products that expand imaging creative potential and point the way to new and exciting technologies in the future. While the process of nominating and selecting award winners had to adapt to the circumstances, we maintained our usual rigorous standards in our considerations.”

 

The Award Process

Beginning in late 2020 and through April 2021, nominations within select categories were gathered by the TIPA technical committee. Editors from member magazines were consulted, equipment was tested and evaluated, while new categories representing emerging imaging trends were considered.

Finalists are usually voted on at the TIPA General Assembly, attended by representatives from TIPA member magazines from around the world – including a delegate from the Japan Camera Press Club – but circumstances led us to gather around an online discussion and voting procedure, which took place on 30 April 2021.

“Our hope is first of all that everyone remains safe and the pandemic eases,” says Thomas. “We look forward to organising an in-person General Assembly next year to welcome new member publications and work with editors from the worldwide TIPA group of professional, amateur, and business magazines and online publications to support and grow the imaging industry.”

The TIPA World Awards 2021 ceremony will take place at Photopia, Hamburg on Friday 24 September.

 

TIPA World Awards Winners

TIPA World Award honourees this year include long-time industry companies, as well as new entrants and those who represent emerging trends in the photo/imaging industry, in addition to awards that recognise specific market segments and applications. While the pandemic naturally had an adverse effect on sales this past year, companies brought forth new and exciting products in the camera and lens categories, although we note that mirrorless introductions have all but replaced what was once a full-house of DSLRs. New full-frame, APS-C and medium format cameras all offered higher megapixel counts, greater sensitivity and dynamic range, all while being more compact, lightweight and portable. The influence of vloggers and content creators made for new categories in cameras and accessories, while new lenses for mirrorless cameras offered wider aperture and advanced coupling features.

In all, the TIPA World Awards encompass a wide range of photographic goods and services while reflecting the advance of technology and the changing trends of the consumer and professional photographer.

For a full list of the TIPA World Awards 2021 winners, along with award citations and images, please visit tipa.com.

 

 

1 – BEST APS-C CAMERA ENTRY-LEVEL

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

The versatile EOS M50 Mark II appeals not only to hobbyist photographers, but is also an ideal camera for vloggers and content creators in a versatile and portable package. It features a 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and an ISO range of range of 100-25,600 for excellent results in stills and 4K video in bright and low light. Image quality is enhanced, thanks to the camera’s Digic 8 image processor that features an Auto Lighting Optimiser for contrast and colour enhancement, plus built-in noise reduction. Eye Detection AF for stills and video brings new-found AF accuracy to this camera class. Plus, its vlogging potential is extensive, thanks to a vari-angle LCD, clean HDMI output, and compatibility with Canon’s free and impressive EOS Webcam Utility software. EOS M50 Mark II even includes the innovative ability to livestream directly to YouTube.

 

2 – BEST APS-C CAMERA ADVANCED

Fujifilm X-S10

The compact X-S10 is eminently suitable for candid, travel, and family photography. This 26.1-megapixel lightweight camera sports a versatile vari-angle rear LCD monitor, excellent for unique angles of view for stills and 4K video. Steady images, in even the most challenging low-light conditions, are one of the camera’s many strong suits, thanks to its five-axis image stabilisation mechanism and ability to achieve AF in light levels down to -7.0EV. Framing rates up to 8fps, shutter speeds as fast as 1/4000 second, plus fast and responsive tracking and face/eye recognition AF that focuses in 0.02 seconds, allow for capturing birds on the wing or a child scoring their first goal.

 

3 – BEST APS-C CAMERA EXPERT

Pentax K-3 Mark III 

Fans of DSLR-type viewfinder camera systems will find lots to like in the 26-megapixel Pentax K-3 Mark III’s high brightness pentaprism that delivers a near 100% field of view. This newly engineered camera can capture all the action with 12 fps speed and its enhanced high-density (101) array of focusing points. A built-in 5EV shake-reduction mechanism allows for expanded ISO, aperture and shutter speed options, even in low light, while the lightweight magnesium alloy body delivers carry and protection advantages. 4K UHD video, Bluetooth and wireless LAN connectivity add to the camera’s appeal. Hands-on, its leaf switch shutter mechanism makes for smooth action that, when combined with an upgraded mirror and shutter drives, provides a highly pleasurable and effective shooting experience.

 

4 – BEST FULL-FRAME CAMERA ADVANCED

Nikon Z 6II

Noted for its impressive low-light recording capabilities – its native ISO range stretches to 51,200 – and fast processing speeds, up to 14fps for 124 consecutive frames, the 24.5-megapixel Z 6II also sports numerous creative modes, including multiple exposure, time-lapse and focus shift bursts. 4K video can be captured up to 60p with Full HD at 1080p, plus 120fps playback for slo-mo effects. Dual card slots and Dual Expeed 6 processors manage the data flow. Z 6II owners can also enjoy the use of more than 90 F-mount Nikkor lenses (plus, up to 360 classics with varying degrees of compatibility) via the optional Mount Adapter FTZ. And while Nikkor Z lenses sync for up to 5EV steps of onboard image stability, even adapted lenses can deliver 3EV (the level of support varies by F-mount lens specification and their on-board VR).

 

5 – BEST FULL-FRAME CAMERA EXPERT

Nikon Z 7II

Looking over the specs of the Nikon Z 7II provides a glimpse into the many ways both professional and enthusiast photographers can use the camera’s capabilities to expand their creative potential and the way they record and interpret their world. It starts with the 45.7MP BSI CMOS sensor and dual Expeed 6 processors that can deliver 10fps stills and up to 4K 60p video, including 120p Full HD 4K slo-mo. Dual card slots, one SD and the other CFexpress, handle the data flow from still or video recording with ease. Low-light shooting is enhanced by a native ISO that stretches to ISO 25,600, with focus acquisition at -4EV and built-in 5EV stability. Eye-and face-detection AF, for people and animals, is available in still and video.

 

6 – BEST FULL-FRAME PROFESSIONAL CAMERA

Sony Alpha 1

The Alpha 1 offers new dimensions of imaging performance and efficient workflow, giving new creative freedom to professional photographers in the ranges of sport, wedding, portrait, wildlife and more. The flagship model is designed to be one of the most versatile cameras. At its heart, it is a 50.1-megapixel full-frame stacked Exmor RSTM CMOS image sensor and Bionz XR processor for blazing fast reading speed up to 30fps blackout-free continuous shooting, a reduced rolling shutter distortion or 8K and 4K 120p video capability. It also achieves the 1/400 sec flash sync speed of the mechanical shutter and first-time electronic shutter that can be used with external flash enabling also to use the renowned real-time Eye AF for studio portraits.

 

7 – BEST PHOTO/VIDEO CAMERA ADVANCED

SIGMA fp L

Like a versatile team player that plays any position on the field, the compact Sigma fp L can handle just about any imaging task required. This digital mirrorless camera incorporates a full-frame 61-megapixel sensor that can deliver 12- or 14-bit Raw (DNG) files and/or JPEGs in a wide range of aspect ratios, plus a host of UHD 4K video formats, all with Linear PCM audio for up to two hours of continuous shooting time. Cinema capabilities include the support of three RAW file formats output to external screen recorders over HDMI plus gimbal controlling. The Sigma fp L also serves as an excellent webcam option. When connected to a PC via a USB Type-C cable, it can output audio and video and charge simultaneously, so video can be streamed for as long as desired.

 

8 – BEST PHOTO/VIDEO CAMERA EXPERT

Sony Alpha 7S III

The Alpha 7S III is a prime choice for hybrid and video-oriented shooters including commercial, freelance and cinema production use. Paired with the new 12.1-megapixel, back-side illuminated full-frame Exmor RTM CMOS image sensor and the powerful Bionz XR processor, it delivers the best 4K imagery with up to 120p recording with pro codecs, ISO range of 80-102,400 and a 15+ stop dynamic range for movies (S-Log3). Monitor your subject perfectly with the 3.0-type LCD screen and 9.44m dot OLED EVF. Get optimum workflow with S-Cinetone included, 16-bit Raw output over HDMI for recording and processing video and tenacious real-time Eye AF in all recording modes. You can also rely on the 5.5EV in-body image stabilisation for steady shots.

 

9 – BEST MEDIUM FORMAT CAMERA

FUJIFILM GFX100S

In the distant past, medium format digital cameras yielded impressive file sizes, but were heavy and bulky. This made some photographers hesitant to take them into the field. FUJIFILM’s GFX100S shows how far we’ve come—it’s a handholdable, grip-handle camera that rivals the size and weight of pro full-frame mirrorless cameras. Whether viewing through its 3.69 million-dot OLED viewfinder or 2.36m dot 3-way tilt touchscreen LCD, handling and controls are right at hand and make it a truly portable “big file” (102MP) still or 4K video camera. Its on-board image stabilization system is effective to 6EV and It can shoot as fast as 5 fps, with twin UHS-II SD card slots to handle the image data load.

 

10 – BEST PRIME WIDE ANGLE LENS

Laowa 15mm f/4.5 Zero-D Shift

Ultra-wide lenses are for unique and interesting points of view. Combine an ultra-wide lens with shift capability – moving the lens parallel to the image plane to gain greater control over line convergence and keystone effects – and you have some idea of what’s in store with this manual focus Laowa 15mm lens. Thanks to the huge 65mm image circle, the lens is available for full frame and medium format cameras and offers +/- 11 mm shift control (+/-8 mm for medium format) along with a 110-degree angle of view. The creative possibilities are enhanced even further by a 360-degree rotation mechanism that can be used to apply movements in both vertical and horizontal directions. The lens is available for seven different mounts for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

 

11 – BEST PRIME STANDARD LENS

Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM

Simply put, this lens of Sony’s G Master TM line is fast. Its f/1.2 lens combines with an 11-blade aperture for stunning bokeh for portraiture and nature photography. That light-gathering ability is coupled with an advanced optical design that delivers a high degree of sharpness and clarity. The inclusion of three XA (extreme aspherical) elements control and virtually eliminate a variety of aberrations, colour fringing and distortion. The Nano AR coating II is applied a for flare and ghosting suppression, important for strong backlit subjects. Four XD Linear motors ensure quiet, precise and rapid AF that benefits both still and video shooting, plus the lens aperture ring can be “de-clicked” for smooth, silent aperture changes during video shooting.

 

12 – BEST PRIME TELEPHOTO LENS

Canon RF600mm f/11 IS STM

For any enthusiast photographer, the prospect of working with super long-range telephoto lenses is exciting, although the price tag can often be prohibitive. Canon’s RF600mm is a highly affordable and very long range prime telephoto lens that is both compact and lightweight. The fixed f/11 aperture is developed as part of the ground-breaking EOS R system. With this thought provoking optical design, Canon has redefined our perception of aperture and how it relates to performance. The lens has a tripod mount inset on the barrel and the retractable design and 5-stops optical image stabilisation can certainly come in handy. AF is quick and smooth for both still and video recording, thanks to the incorporation of an STM (stepping motor drive). A unique lens build using gapless dual layer diffractive optics, results in a lighter lens and makes for much easier handling and operation.

 

13 – BEST WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENS

Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S

Super wide-angle lenses face particular optical challenges, including ghosting, flare, and coma. This smaller and lighter Z version of Nikon’s classic 14-24 mm super-wide zoom takes full advantage of Nikon’s latest lens technology to help suppress incidental light from every direction. For example, Anti-reflective Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO coatings on lens elements, plus the use of aspherical elements and advances in Z mount technology, keep pinpoints of light sharp and clear and free from sagittal coma and flare, evident in photos made of city lights and starry nights. There’s a handy in-lens filter slot, a great benefit considering the 112 mm filter thread, plus an AF stepper motor that works in near silence, great for quiet video work and smooth still shooting.

 

14 – BEST STANDARD ZOOM LENS

Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD (Model B070)

A midrange zoom is an excellent choice for family, outdoor, and travel photography. When it’s fast (here f/2.8 throughout the focal length range), lightweight (525 g/18.5 oz) and compact 119.3 mm (4.7 inch), it can quickly become a regular photo companion. The Tamron 17-70mm is built for Sony E mount, APS-C cameras, thus the effective focal length is about 25.5-105 mm; it can be mounted on full frame Sony camera using the camera’s APS-C crop mode. It incorporates Tamron’s Vibration Compensation system and can focus as close as 19 cm (7.5 inch) at the wide setting and 39 cm (15.4 inch) at the telephoto. The constant f/2.8 aperture means low-light shooting is enhanced with potential for excellent soft background effects as well.

 

15 – BEST TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS

Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056)

This fast, versatile zoom can serve equally well as a landscape, wedding candid, portrait or travel lens. Versatility extends to its full compatibility with various camera features, including Fast Hybrid and Eye AF, a close focusing distance 0.85 m (33.5 inch), and Tamron’s VXD, a quick and quiet linear motor that is ideal for video and still photography alike. Portability is another attractive feature, one that encourages always packing this lens. Compact and lightweight, it’s a mere 15 cm (5.9 inches) at the 70 mm and weighs a mere 0.8 kg (28.6 oz), plus special weather-sealing and lens coating allows for secure use even in inclement weather. And having a constant aperture throughout the focal length range means full advantage can be taken of bokeh effects for portraits and nature photography alike.

 

16 – BEST ULTRA-TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS

SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary

A long-range zoom creates a whole new way of looking at the world, and for many profoundly changes the way they see and record nature, wildlife and even photojournalistic assignments. Lightweight (1135 g/2.5 lb for L-Mount), specially sealed, and compact for its range (197.2 mm /7.8 inch for L-Mount), this newly crafted lens takes full advantage of SIGMA’s know-how in long-range telephoto optics applied to mirrorless camera technology (Sony E-mount and L-Mount). The 9-blade diaphragm enhances bokeh, and is especially exciting at longer focal length settings. The stepping motor in the lens is optimized for both phase detection and contrast AF, so eye-tracking technology is optimized. And there’s a 4 steps optical stabilization system that expands shooting opportunities in challenging lighting conditions.

 

17 – BEST PORTRAIT LENS

SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art

Aimed directly at professional and enthusiast portrait and fine art photographers, SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art has features that read like a portrait lens wish list. The first of course is the potential for bokeh and other benefits of an enhanced optical background effect for both portrait and nature subjects. Next, SIGMA has paid special attention to achieve optimum results at any aperture, and especially when wide open. The lens incorporates an impressive assemblage of high refractive index glass, five Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements and an aspherical lens, resulting in the absence of colour bleeding and bothersome backlight effects, centre to edge sharpness, and a unique presence throughout. Numerous lens controls and functions make it an apt choice for both still and video photography.

 

18 – BEST MACRO LENS

SIGMA 105mm F2.8 DG DN MACRO | Art

A macro adds a special touch to any photographer’s kit bag, especially one that can perform extra duty as a classic portrait focal length lens. SIGMA 105mm F2.8 DG DN MACRO | Art lens checks all the boxes when it comes to a close-up photographer’s wish list: a maximum aperture of F2.8, a minimum focusing distance of 29.5 cm (11.6 inch), a maximum 1:1 magnification and a rounded 9-blade diaphragm, all of which add to the versatile handling of any subject and especially the potential for exciting bokeh effects. Since a good deal of macro work is done outdoors, a water and oil repellent coating protects against inclement weather. Numerous on-lens controls (aperture ring lock switch, AFL button, and an aperture ring click switch for video shooting silence) add to the creative and practical benefits the lens affords.

 

19 – BEST VLOGGER CAMERA

Sony ZV-1

Vlogging has become increasingly popular for personal, instructional and promotional use. The Sony ZV-1 is aimed at established and aspiring vloggers with UHD 4K output and numerous features and effects that are purpose-built for content creators. A special grip, close focus capability and side-flip 3.0-type LCD allows for constant monitoring during recording. The recording lamp is clearly visible with Directional 3-capsule Mic ensuring that front-facing sound gets priority. There’s even an included and attachable wind screen to muffle bothersome ambient sound. Other features include a “Product Showcase Setting” that puts focus on handheld items close to the lens, a Background Defocus function, a Soft Skin Effect and image stabilization for smooth footage when the vlogger is moving through a scene.

 

20 – BEST PROFESSIONAL VIDEO CAMERA

Panasonic LUMIX DC-BGH1

The BGH1 is a box style digital cinema camera that weighs in at 1.2 lbs (0.54 kg) and its compact enough to be used on a drone or gimbal, yet is also apt for use as a broadcast, live streaming, vlogging and cinema production device. With a 10.2MP MFT sensor and lens mount, the BGH1 easily links up with other cameras to provide multi-camera environments that allow WIFI and Bluetooth functionality for monitoring, configuration and control via smartphone or tablet. An internal fan keeps the camera cool during long shoots, with a protective aluminium and magnesium housing and numerous mounting options for flexible rigging. Multiple recording mode options, including frame rate, resolution, and sound recording and output make this an extremely versatile pro camera.

 

21 – BEST FINE ART PRINTING SOLUTION

Hahnemühle Print – Protect – Authenticate Product Range

Photographers who aspire to enter the fine art market understand that professional presentation and authentication play an important role in preparing their work for sale. Hahnemühle’s Authentication Product Range gives photo artists a complete package, including their world-renowned archival papers and portfolio boxes and special pre-printed Certificates of Authenticity. In addition, there’s now a free online print registry service for establishing provenance. Hahnemühle inkjet papers have earned high regard among gallerists and curators, thus the association with the brand itself shows the artist’s regard for their work. Other tools include the Hahnemühle Signing Pen Duo, which combines a pigment liner and graphite signing pencil that will not bleed through any paper surface, and various specialty coating sprays for print protection, preservation and presentation.

 

22 – BEST PHOTO PRINTER

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300

While sharing images online is fine, there’s nothing like a quality print to preserve show the true impact of a well-done photograph. The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300, a 13-inch, 10-ink (LUCIA PRO, including Chroma Optimizer) pigment inkjet printer makes it easy for photographers and other graphic artists to discover the benefits of printing as both a creative outlet and archive of their vision. With both stacked sheet and single sheet manual feed (for heavier paper stock), this desktop-sized printer has a 3-inch display, can handle panoramas up to 39 inches long, and offers easy maintenance and print setting controls. A special benefit for those who may print infrequently is Canon’s Nozzle Recovery System, which cuts down on the need for frequent head cleaning.

 

23 – BEST IMAGING SOFTWARE EXPERT

Zoner Photo Studio X

To take full advantage of the enhancement of digital camera files, especially Raw format files, a full-fledged photo editing and processing toolkit is required. Zoner Photo Studio X offers a range of workflow, corrections, layer processing and effects in an affordable and easy to use format. This PC-only software has a straightforward interface and fast import capabilities, keyword tagging, and profile corrections, plus its subscription price includes both online storage and the ability to create galleries. Access to images is via a panel architecture for sourcing from the hard drive or a memory card, along with a search function that can be used to filter by format, user rating and even GPS coordinates. Basic and enhanced colour, crop, exposure and rotation tools are also available, plus there are numerous preset options.

 

24 – BEST IMAGING SOFTWARE PROFESSIONAL

DxO PhotoLab 4 

DxO PhotoLab is an advanced RAW photo-editing software that combines the most efficient correction and processing solutions on the market with the power of AI (Artificial Intelligence). In this latest update, DxO PhotoLab 4 has added DeepPRIME, a revolutionary technology based on artificial intelligence and trained with deep learning. Using the millions of photos DxO’s laboratories have analysed for over 15 years, DeepPRIME drastically improves digital noise reduction while also delivering more effective demosaicing. Alongside this amazing technology, photography aficionados can also enjoy the benefits of unrivalled DxO optical corrections and several powerful editing tools, including ClearView, which effectively reduces atmospheric haze; Smart Lighting, which maximizes any photo’s dynamic range; and many others. In addition to a complete range of local adjustment tools, DxO PhotoLab also features U Point technology, an easy-to-use tool with unmatched efficiency.

 

25 – BEST LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY

Profoto AirX

Smartphones have revolutionized photography and bred a generation of new image creators. However, one thing that has been missing within smartphone photography is the ability to creatively work with light. It is no secret that professional photographers use flash. The Profoto AirX technology synchronizes all Bluetooth-equipped Profoto Xenon flash (e.g. A10, B10-series, Pro-11) with a smartphone. Multiple flash units can be connected and controlled individually. The number of features and level of control is the same as for taking photos with a traditional camera: full automatic exposure mode (TTL), precise manual flash power control, automatic HSS mode, shutter speeds down to 1/25.000s. Profoto AirX enables flexible workflow with superior lighting quality. Profoto AirX is free when downloading Profoto Camera app on App Store and Google Play.

 

26 – BEST PORTABLE FLASH

Godox Pocket Flash AD100Pro

Small, highly portable strobes that do not need wired power come in handy for a wide variety of creative tasks. The lightweight (524 g) and portable (12×7.6×7.6cm) AD100Pro 100 Ws strobe features lithium battery power, an LED modelling light and accepts a wide variety of light shaping accessories. It can deliver 1/8000 high speed sync, plus control of multiple flash setups via an optional 32-channel wireless transmitter with a range of 100 m (328 ft). The rechargeable lithium-ion battery is rated at 360 full power flashes, offers a recycling time of 0.01-1.5 seconds, and offers 9-step power adjustment. Creative flexibility is offered through user controls that include manual, auto and strobe settings, plus power output, modelling light and first or second curtain sync.

 

27 – BEST TRIPOD

Vanguard VEO 3GO series

Some photographers hesitate to use a tripod due to the idea that they are cumbersome to carry and set up. Created for “on the go” photographers, the Vanguard VEO 3GO Series kits might well change their mind. The 204CB (carbon fibre), for example, folds down to an eminently portable 345.44mm and weighs just 810g. It extends to 1.31m, can carry up to a 3kg camera, and includes an Arca-Swiss compatible T-45 Ball Head. All 3GO models can be used as a tripod, a monopod or as a selfie/vlogging stick, and include a smartphone holder and Bluetooth remote. Each model allows for setting legs at three angles for perspective adjustment and easy extension of the centre column for low angle or macro work.

 

28 – BEST TRIPOD HEAD

Gitzo Ball Head Series 4

Professional photographers who want a heavy-duty tripod head that can perform in extreme conditions will welcome the Gitzo Series 4 Ball Head. Precisely manufactured using high-tolerance steel and aluminium components, it weighs less than 1 kg and can securely hold an impressive 30 kg load such as a pro camera with a 400-600mm lens. The unit perfectly complements Gitzo’s Series 3, 4 and 5 Systematic tripods and is available in both lever and screw plate lock configurations. It is rich in features, including an independent friction control for precise adjustments, a bubble level, a 360° independent panning lock and a short-rotation fast lock. Supplied with the Gitzo’s D profile plates, the Ball Head Series 4 is also compatible with Arca-Swiss style plates from other brands.

 

29 – BEST GIMBAL SYSTEM

Manfrotto Fast Gimboom and Gimbal series

Content creators and professional video makers can now create dynamic presentations with an affordable yet heavy duty stabilizer system that can handle up to 6.5 kg of gear and work with both Manfrotto and other makers’ gimbals. The innovative Manfrotto gimbal features a quick install process via a release plate that once set remains in-place, making for quick setup and breakdown. The gimbal provides a lockable three-axis stabilization and motors for smooth shooting with a touch screen to set up parameters and change the working mode, including a set of creative selections such as time lapse, VLOG selfies and TikTok portrait modes. To expand shooting options the setup offers a wide range of accessories that work with 220-460 gimbals, including follow focus, remote control and gimbal extension.

 

30 – BEST ENTHUSIAST PHOTO MONITOR

ViewSonic VP2768a

Enthusiast photographers and videographers require a monitor with a high standard of color accuracy, uniformity, and calibration capability. The VP2768a provides all of the above, plus an integrated workflow that helps clear desktop clutter by recognizing that numerous forms of input and output are all part of today’s creative process. For example, the DisplayPort output allows for double monitor chain, and connecting a computer via the USB-C port enables transfer of all data through a single cable. An integrated USB 3.0 hub handles keyboard, mouse and flash drives. The 27-inch ColorPro Series IPS panel delivers a stunningly palette of 4.39 trillion colors and is factory calibrated. It is Pantone Validated, supports 100% sRGB color space, color blindness mode and features 14-bit LUT hardware calibration.

 

31 – BEST PROFESSIONAL PHOTO MONITOR

LG UltraWide Thunderbolt 4 (40WP95C)

This 40-inch ultra-wide, 21:9 aspect ratio monitor features a curved Nano IPS display panel with WUHD 5K2K resolution and a wide colour gamut that covers 98 percent of the DCI-P3 colour space and 135 percent of the sRGB colour space. The monitor’s ability to show more visual data onscreen means greater productivity and convenience for content creators or coders who frequently work with several programs/windows simultaneously. Enhanced connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 provides users with a universal cable connectivity solution, offering expanded capabilities and USB4 specification compliance, plus allows users to charge a laptop connected to the monitor while they work. Live Color Low Blue Light Technology helps prevent eye-strain without negatively impacting picture quality and has been certified by Underwriters Laboratories and TÜV Rheinland.

 

32 – BEST PROFESSIONAL VIDEO MONITOR

LG UltraFine OLED Pro (32EP950)

OLED technology is considered to provide the world’s best display experience. The 32 inch UltraFine OLED Pro display is designed for video content creators in the movie, broadcasting and media industry whose work requires the best colour accuracy and HDR / SDR picture quality. This display provides individual dimming of its 8 million pixels, delivering HDR images without any halo effect, true 10-bit colour depth, billion colour reproduction, 99% Adobe RGB and DCI-P3 coverage, and a 1 million to one contrast ratio. This 4K display has a comprehensive workflow and connectivity toolkit that includes an HDMI port, two DisplayPorts for multiple PC, and three USB ports.

 

33 – BEST PHOTO SMARTPHONE

Sony Xperia 1 III

Xperia 1 III utilises expertise of engineers from Sony’s Alpha cameras. It offers four focal lengths, including the world’s first Variable telephoto lens paired with a Dual PD sensor– reaching up to a focal length of 105mm from 16mm, as well as delivering 12MP and RAW formatted images. Each lens features ZEISS optics calibrated specifically for Xperia 1 III. Fast focus is enhanced by AI for Real Time Tracking and allows for 20fps bursts with 60fps continuous AF/AE calculation. The 4K HDR OLED display is enhanced for video and other mobile apps with a 120Hz refresh-rate. The Cinematography Pro feature is designed for creating movies up to 4K and 120fps slow-motion recording for creative flexibility.

 

34 – BEST POWER ACCESSORY

NITECORE SCL10 2-in-1 Smart Camera Light & Power Bank

Filling a camera bag with accessories—batteries, chargers, lights, wires, cards, etc.—is easy these days, so any product that comes along that handles multiple tasks in one device is more than welcome. The Nitecore SCL10 serves as both a Smart camera light and 10,000mAh power bank in one. The light, with the included hot shoe mount, offers 800 max lumen output with a variable colour temperature range of 2500-6300K, making it perfect as a fill light for still and video shooting (as well as an emergency flashlight). The battery has a maximum runtime of 70 hours as a camera light, is rechargeable via USB-C, can be used as a power bank for other devices and has an OLED display for brightness, colour temperature and remaining battery life.

 

35 – BEST VIDEO ACCESSORY

RØDE Wireless GO II

The days of difficult video sound setups for content creators doing 2-person interviews, vlogging, spot news, and even pre-recording presentations are over. Røde has made it easy to quickly set up wireless audio for recording to a wide range of devices. With pushbutton ease, the two small clip-on or mount devices with built-in mics offer secure Series IV 2.4 GhZ transmission up to a range of 200 m (656 ft). Controls are straightforward with clear LCD panels. While dual channels are great for interviews, the transmitters can be single channel or switched on the go, mixed for stereo, and even connect to an existing lavalier mic. The receiver can be adapted to cameras, laptops, tablets and smartphones via numerous port connectors and cables.

 

36 – BEST PHOTO ACCESSORY

Hoya PROND GRAD Circular Graduated ND Filters

Every landscape photographer knows that half the battle is “waiting for the light to be just right”. Hoya’s PROND GRAD filters even out the odds by offering a controllable balance between the bright and dark areas (sky and land) of horizontal landscape compositions. Known colloquially as “blenders”, these high quality filters are made with Hoya’s ACCU-ND deposition technology, which distributes graduation equally throughout the glass surface. A further refinement is the adjustment of the way that the specific density starts and fades out inside the image area—making for a smooth and natural fade that enriches the highlights and lets the darker areas breath. These variable filters are available in 0-4 (PROND GRAD 16) and 0-5 stop (PROND GRAD 32) strengths.

 

37 – BEST RETAIL FINISHING SYSTEM

CEWE Photocenter

Available at photo dealers and other retail outlets that serve family and hobbyist photographers, the CEWE Photocenter offers expanded creative image options that go beyond the standard 10×15 cm (4×6 inch) print. Numerous premium products, such as posters and canvas surface prints, greeting cards, photobooks, calendars, stickers and even photo mugs can be had in self-service or staff- supported scenarios. High volume locations are equipped with individual and flexible setups for walk-in business, plus the system is integrated with an order-at-home/app, store pickup model. Ease of ordering is key, as is awareness of image product offerings, with both kiosks and online guiding the consumer along the way. The company reports strong support and demand for the CEWE Photocenter and its product range from hobbyist and enthusiast photo fans alike.

 

38 – BEST PHOTO LAB

WhiteWall RoomView

The WhiteWall RoomView aids photographers, gallery owners and interior designers with a visualization of how an image will look in a private home, office or even on a gallery wall. Once the image is uploaded, it is automatically converted into a 3D product view that contains all the product features, such as glass and frame. The user uploads a picture of the own room or wall, plus supplies the dimensions of the space. Users can also work with a “sample” wall for various image configuration setups. The wall can be cleared of present content to provide a realistic blank canvas awaiting photo art placement. To top it off, a one-click white point feature matches the preview with the actual colour temperature of the room light. The user gets an individual and true-to-scale visualisation of their photograph in their own room.

 

39 – BEST PHOTO SERVICE

CEWE Photo Calendar A2 Gold Edition

One of the most popular ways a photographer can share their love of photography is via an attractive wall calendar that will hang year round in their home and those of family and friends. CEWE’s A2-size (approximately 42 x 60 cm) Gold Edition Photo Calendar is available in vertical or horizontal format and printed on high-quality matte, low-reflection surface paper. The calendar has a shiny gold embossed finish that adds a truly elegant touch and is shipped wrapped in a soft envelope paper, with an included greeting card. Downloadable software makes selection and arrangement easy. And photographers don’t have to wait for the winter holidays to give one—they can choose any month in the year to start their 12-month calendar.

 

40 – BEST IMAGING COMPUTER

ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED (UX582)

Laptop computers have evolved to incorporate the latest technology in their image processing flexibility and capability. The ZenBook 15.6 inch screen is a 4K touchscreen with an OLED display, plus there’s a secondary 14-inch ScreenPad that automatically tilts up to 9.5 degrees and provides access to ScreenPad Plus optimized apps. It offers four types of control, including a Dial, Button, Slider and Scroll, all accessed by using the App Switcher to launch an app, thus providing a multi-window experience via the full-width touchpad. An included second generation, pressure sensitive active stylus and pad adds even more creative options. The main screen has a 4K OLED HDR NanoEdge display for deep blacks and vivid colours with up to 32GB of memory and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 laptop graphics.