The Cool Camera Everyone Forgot About

The latest from the Phoblographer for July 7th, 2025.

Author

Chris Gampat
July 07, 2025

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Here’s the latest:

This 25mm f1.8 Pancake Lens is Only $89

By Nilofer Khan

July 7, 2025

Chinese lens manufacturers have been innovating in a very saturated photo market. While you have the best lenses from the big players, smaller creators are not shying away from offering something that others aren't at the moment. SG-image is one such company that has been aiming to offer cost-effective lenses that also excel in their performance. After launching the "world’s first variable aperture" lens, the company is now set to introduce a wide-angle prime for Sony and Fujifilm users. Here's what it has to offer.

The Cool Camera Everyone Forgot About

By Chris Gampat

July 7, 2025

I almost didn't write this review. But a little over a year ago, I bought a special edition of the Lomography Lomomatic 110 camera. There was no press or influencer discount -- I bought it outright. It genuinely was one of the most beautiful cameras I've used in the past few years and it filled me with a bit of excitement that quickly subsided. It subsided so much in fact that I ended up giving the camera away. Just recently, I got the images back from developing. The Lomomatic 110 is capable of delivering an organic looking image unlike anything else around right now. When I say it made photos that made NY look like it was from over 30 years ago, I'm not kidding about that. And while it's one of the more unique experiences in photography, I just don't think that it's worth the purchase if you're experienced -- and there's very good reasons for that.

A Minor Nikon Zf Firmware Update Has Arrived

By Feroz Khan

July 7, 2025

Some firmware updates really transform your camera into a whole new beast, almost like a new camera itself. The Nikon Zf firmware version 2.02 isn't one of them. It's more cosmetic in nature than anything else, and it doesn't improve image quality. We haven't seen anything break as a result of this upgrade, so you can go ahead and do this on a lazy Sunday.Some firmware updates really transform your camera into a whole new beast, almost like a new camera itself. The Nikon Zf firmware version 2.02 isn't one of them. It's more cosmetic in nature than anything else, and it doesn't improve image quality. We haven't seen anything break as a result of this upgrade, so you can go ahead and do this on a lazy Sunday.

Was the Pentax 17 Worth it?: A Year Later

By Chris Gampat

July 7, 2025

Nearly a year ago, I finished our Pentax 17 camera review. And back then, I gave it an Editor's Choice award. The Pentax 17 is the camera that finally made me empathize with Mets fans. You see, when I was much younger, I'd root for the Yankees because I knew that I'd always get lunch money when betting against my friends. And quite often, it was the only way that I knew that I'd eat. If the Yankees are about results, the Mets are about unconditional love. So is film photography. Even more so -- so is Pentax. I never ended up buying the Pentax 17 -- I've got way too many film cameras already and don't need any more. In fact, I don't even shoot anywhere as much film as I used to. But after a year, I finally got back the film I shot -- and so this update to our review is very worth it.

The 3 Best OM System Cameras for Street Photographers

By Nilofer Khan

July 6, 2025

OM System has created some exceptional cameras over the decades. While they are largely known for wildlife and street photography, their devices are just as great for street photography. If you are someone looking for a new Micro Four Thirds camera for street photography, then we bring to you 3 great options. Some may be older, but they are quite exceptional for the genre. Without further ado, let's dive in.

Not Buying a New Camera? Then You Need this

By Chris Gampat

July 6, 2025

Professional photographers should check this out. Our photography insurance program is designed to be there when photographers really need it! We’re giving you more than the competition can in different ways! Here’s a little-known fact: the warranty of your camera or lens doesn’t necessarily cover what happens to it in case of dust, inclement weather, …

This New 7Artisans Prime Is a Steal for APS-C Shooters

By Nilofer Khan

July 6, 2025

APS-C photographers often feel neglected. While there are fewer buyers of full-frame cameras, this segment continues to be the most important one for manufacturers. As a result, APS-C shooters get a second-hand treatment, with many flagship features often trickling down from full frames. Similarly, the best lenses are for full-frame users, with APS-C getting the shorter end of the bargain. While first-party manufacturers are trying to ease this, third-party lens makers are already the support for many. An example is 7Artisans, a company that offers various exceptional lenses for various mounts. Their recent wide-angle prime is a perfect pancake lens for beginners and semi-professionals. Here's why.

The 4 Best Canon Lenses for Wildlife Photographers

By Nilofer Khan

July 5, 2025

Canon has been one of the best-known brands in the sphere of wildlife photography. The company has repeatedly earned a spot on our best wildlife photography cameras and the best budget cameras under $2,000. But while the cameras are a critical part of the gear setup, there is another thing just as important: a good lens. Canon has been creating exceptional lenses, and today, we look at the best offerings from them for wildlife photography. Without further delay, let's have a look at the exciting options.

What Will the Camera in the DJI Mini 5 Pro Be Like?

By Nilofer Khan

July 5, 2025

When DJI announced its series of cost-effective workhorse drones, many photographers were quite excited. With each iteration, the company continued to reach new heights, with the newly launched DJI Mavic 4 Pro adding yet another gem to the company's portfolio. With a 100MP 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad sensor, the company achieved the impossible. It now appears, the next drone in line is the DJI Mini 5 Pro which is an ideal option for people on a budget. Here's a look at what it can have and when it will launch.