A Mid-2000s DSLR Brings Me Joy

The latest from the Phoblographer for August 18th, 2025.

Author

Chris Gampat
August 18, 2025

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Top 6 Kodak Cameras Under $250 for Budget-Friendly Photography

By Nilofer Khan

August 18, 2025

Kodak has been a prominent company in the photo world. They had some of the best films and film cameras over the years, before the company switched to producing point and shoot digital devices. Today, the company has some of the best-selling compact cameras of all time. If you are someone who is looking to buy a new camera from Kodak, or an affordable compact device, then here are a few options to choose from that we've done lots of research on.

Are AI-Edited Photos Killing Our Beloved Memories?

By Nilofer Khan

August 18, 2025

The debate around artificial intelligence takes a new course every other week. While some claim it to be a saving grace, creatives are battling against it to save their livelihoods. Photographers, too, are facing the same challenges, with many encountering ways to ensure their images are not scraped to train generative AI. As a result, apps like Overlai and Cara are being promoted to safeguard the works of the artists. But our collective troubles don't end here. AI-edited photos are not only corroding the joy of photography but also leading to immense changes in how we remember things.

Lumix S1 II E Long Term Review: One of the Best New Hybrid Cameras

By Chris Gampat

August 18, 2025

I didn't realize it, but I took a very long time to update our LUMIX S1II E review. Honestly, that's because I was having so much fun using it. But now, we're announcing that the review has been updated, and you can check out the entire thing here. But the updated conclusions are below. However, we really think you should go check out the entire thing.

Why a Mid-2000s DSLR Still Brings Me Joy

By Chris Gampat

August 18, 2025

My first DSLR ever was the Olympus E510. If you've followed me since I wrote for a website called Photography Bay or even at PCMag, then you'll know that I loved this camera and used it to get lots of great images. At the time, I believe it was no more than 10 Megapixels and it used a Live MOS sensor that was made by Kodak. Because of that, the images from it look far different from anything that Sony or Canon makes. Every now and again, I browse my old Flickr albums from back in the day and I realize that the images from that sensor are very unlike anything made today. In the pursuit of a sterile form of perfection, digital photography has killed off almost all the competition when it comes to sensor making. There's just Canon and Sony for the most part. And the result is image quality that isn't as plentiful as there are film emulsions. Sure, you can apply presets afterwards, but it still isn't at all the same experience.

Is Fujifilm Developing Ultra-Compact Fisheye Lenses?

By Nilofer Khan

August 17, 2025

Fujifilm has multiple lenses for its APS-C and GFX cameras, which are not only powerful performers but also have great weather sealing. In recent times, the company has focused more on launching new cameras, with lenses having taken a back seat. The last lens they released was the XF 23mm F2.8 R WR lens, which is a pancake lens for APS-C cameras. Since then, there has been no word. However, it now appears Fujifilm may be in the midst of launching two new lenses, which are ultra-wide in nature. But who is it for? Let's find out.

How This Fujifilm Outdid Nikon and Canon in Latest Camera Sales Results

By Nilofer Khan

August 17, 2025

Charts of the best-selling cameras for the month of July have been revealed. According to the new results, Fujifilm is beating the odds and is one of the prominent choices of users for July. The results were announced by Yodobashi Camera, one of the top retailers in Japan. However, these top-selling cameras showcase a different set of favourites than BCN+R's list. So, which are the best-selling cameras for this month? Let's dig in.

Is Your Favourite Sigma Wide-Angle Lens About to Be Discontinued?

By Nilofer Khan

August 17, 2025

Sigma has changed its brand image in the past year. Their newly launched camera, the BF, reflects this minimalist approach. While they are building new products that reflect this direction, Sigma has left behind some cameras and lenses to focus on its future. For instance, the fp and the fp L, as well as 12-24mm f4.5-5.6 II DG HSM and 50mm f2 DG DN Contemporary, amongst others. It now appears, a new wide-angle lens has joined this list: 14mm f1.4 DG DN Art.

The Surprising Rise of Vintage iPhones in Modern Photography

By Nilofer Khan

August 16, 2025

The quiet but rising return of compact cameras has shifted the way we perceive modern photography. While many prefer to buy a higher-megapixel camera, many are quitting this trend sooner than we thought. Models such as the Canon S95, Fujifilm FinePix F10, or iPod Touch are now preferred by a segment of niche users. Joining this fray are vintage iPhones launched between 2007 and 2013. Why? Let's find out.

Editor’s Picks: 5 Zoom Lenses from 2020 We Loved, and 1 We Didn’t

By Nilofer Khan

August 16, 2025

Zoom lenses are multi-purpose, and they allow you to shoot a wide range of subjects. A wide-angle zoom can be used for landscapes, environmental portraits, and even for commercial photography. A telephoto zoom lens, too, meets the needs of sports and portrait photographers, as well as event photographers. In the year 2020, we saw a variety of zooms, many of which continue to shine to this day. If you are looking for a few options for your needs, then this list can be helpful. Let's dive in.