The Rise of the American Camera Brand

The latest from the Phoblographer for January 8th, 2026.

Author

Chris Gampat
January 08, 2026

Subscribe to get the Phoblographer Banner-Ad Free for $25/year.

Here’s the latest:

How to Shoot Color Like Saul Leiter

By Nilofer Khan

January 8, 2026

When it comes to color photography, there are only a handful of people who have managed to stand out. Saul Leiter is one such pioneer who changed the meaning of color photography in the 20th century. Long before colors were taken seriously in art photography, Leiter was capturing muted tones, layered reflection, and snow on the streets of Manhattan. In fact, his dreamlike and poetic images continue to inspire people to this day. If you are someone who wants to make your photos look like his, here is a guide to help you.

The Rise of the American Camera Brand

By Chris Gampat

January 8, 2026

In the past year or so, we've seen a few point and shoot cameras come to the market. Leica has been making some very exceptional ones. But most of these new, super affordable point and shoot cameras aren't coming from Japan -- where most of the industry's cameras come from at least in concept and design. Rather, they're instead all mostly being made in China and designed in America. Every single time I pick one up, I'm elated that they exist and that a few financially courageous folks are taking it upon themselves to fill a market with cameras that folks want. But then I always wonder why the Japanese won't make these.

The 3 Fujifilm 16MP Cameras That Nail the Analog Look

By Nilofer Khan

January 8, 2026

Fujifilm has created cameras that offer the best of both worlds: a nice vintage design paired with a modern heart. This has been one of the reasons why many photographers who want film-like image quality in the digital age opt for their models. If you're looking to purchase a new camera, these offerings can be of help. Despite the years that passed, they continue to offer some exciting image quality.

There Will Always Be A Better Photograph

By Chris Gampat

January 8, 2026

I'm pretty sure that Diane Arbus said it best: leave your lens cap off. She believed that you should leave your camera on at all times because you never know when you're going to miss a great photograph. And I think that if you're reading this article, then you can probably relate to the feeling of missing the shot. But you should never lose faith in yourself, and know that you should forgive yourself because forgiveness is understanding that you can't change the past.

The Sony a7s Lineup is Most Likely Dead

By Chris Gampat

January 7, 2026

For most of Sony's mirrorless camera history, the Sony a7s series has been about videographers and high ISO output more than anything else. In 2020, I was a part of the review this site did of the Sony a7s III and even back then, I could tell that Sony really didn't know what to do with it. It was essentially the same camera as its predecessor. With Sony's entire lineup of video-related E-mount cameras, I strongly believe that the Sony a7s lineup will need a major revision before we ever see a new body come.

The Photography Process That Changed the World

By Chris Gampat

January 7, 2026

Before digital photography, there was obviously analog photography. We needed to print images often back in those days. And some black and white printing processes were so much better than others. Today, we're looking at one of the best.

What the Hell Did You Do, Nikon?

By Chris Gampat

January 7, 2026

Today, Nikon copied Canon and announced their new Nikkor Z 24-105mm f4-7.1. We reviewed the Canon variant of this lens around 6 years ago, and optically speaking it was just fine. But let's be honest, it's harder for some people in Western countries to drink the recommended amount of water on a regular basis than it is for Nikon to make a lens that another company did similarly. The camera manufacturers have been playing copycat with one another over and over again instead of innovating and doing different things. And while a few other publications will temper their statements and YouTubers will fall in line just to not lose possible paid advertising placements, I'm so sick of seeing this and it's one of the reasons why I complain so much about the modern camera industry. When brands do stuff like this, it sucks for everyone.

PSA: Your Camera’s Shutter is Fine. Stop Worrying

By Chris Gampat

January 7, 2026

A little while back, I read one of the most ridiculous things that I've ever read: and it has to do with a camera's shutter. This is mostly affecting the used camera market in the way that people often ask about the shutter count on the camera. In fact, folks won't buy it if the shutter count is too high. This, truthfully, is a whole lot of misinformed nonsense. And here's the proof of it.

The Two High End Full Frame Cameras From Canon

By Nilofer Khan

January 7, 2026

Canon cameras are some of the most sought-after devices in the industry. The company's 5D and 6D series are an example of that. However, with their mirrorless cameras, the company took several years to introduce some top-of-the-line full-frame cameras. Today, we look at some new models that earn that crown and continue to be impressive options for professional and serious photographers.