Who Doesn't Like a Pancake Lens?

The latest from the Phoblographer for July 14th, 2025.

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Is Sigma Developing a New Lens for Bird Photography?

By Nilofer Khan

July 14, 2025

Sigma has had a great year. The company launched its BF camera, which stirred a controversy, as well as their new lenses, which seem to showcase the brand's new approach. The company has also filed a patent for new lenses, designed for travel and wildlife photographers, and it seems the company's focus will not shift anytime soon. Why? Because a new patent reveals that another telephoto lens, which will excite bird photographers. What could it be? Let's find out.

This Camera Has the Best EVF I’ve Ever Used

By Chris Gampat

July 14, 2025

"By now, Samsung cameras are synonymous with innovation," I wrote in my 2014 review of the Samsung NX30. "The AMOLED screen has gotten a big boost in resolution and the new, tilting EVF is an innovative feature." Since then, none of the Japanese-made cameras designed for photography first have done this in a way that really matters. Sony has done it with cinema cameras, but not for still. The closest thing is the Leica Visioflex EVF that attaches onto Leica M cameras. However, this feature is truly very useful. So why don't manufacturers bring it back?

7 Ways to Get Real Feedback on Your Photos

By Nilofer Khan

July 14, 2025

Any photographer who wishes to improve their images needs three key elements: knowledge, practice, and constructive criticism. While the first two are entirely dependent on the individual's will, the latter requires inputs from a third source. In many cases, a good photo critic will nudge you in the right direction. If you have fulfilled the first two steps and are unable to reach number three, we have a few sources that you can choose from. Here is a look at the places you can get your photos critiqued honestly.

Fotodiox Pro Fusion Smart AF Adapter: Use Sony Lenses on Nikon Z cameras

By Feroz Khan

July 14, 2025

This article isn't going to get into the question of why someone owning a Nikon Z camera would want to use a Sony E-mount lens. Nor is it going to discuss which of the two brands has better autofocus modes or lens performance. We know there are photographers out there who would have made the switch from Sony to Nikon Z in the last few years. I personally know one such professional myself. But such a switch often comes at a considerable cost when you factor in the prices of new lenses. Then there's always the attachment we have to some lenses that have helped us get memorable pictures. The Fotodiox Pro Fusion Smart AF Adapter aims to help you fix the conundrum of not having to sell out all your old Sony lenses when you make the move to Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.

The 4 Best Travel Photography Cameras to Purchase in 2025

By Nilofer Khan

July 13, 2025

Travel photography allows one to see the vast vistas up close, savoring every new moment that comes one's way. However, the first rule of traveling is to journey with light weight, which also means you need a gear that is easy to pocket. Sure, some do rely on phones for this reason, but there are many who prefer a smaller set-up, one that you can easily slip in and out of your bag. If you are looking for something like that, then you have come to the right place. Here are a few travel photography cameras that come with a fixed lens and have an interchangeable setup.

Has Your Camera Had Problems? You Might Need This

By Chris Gampat

July 13, 2025

Professional photographers: this is what you need. 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 …

Has Sigma Developed a New 35mm Lens?

By Nilofer Khan

July 13, 2025

Every year or two, it is necessary for lens manufacturers to refresh their popular lineup to meet the resolution and speed criteria of the cameras. Sometimes, the update also helps to make a popular lens more compact, while improving its image quality. Other times, the update fixes major issues with design or glass elements. It now appears that Sigma is achieving the same with the introduction of a successor to its popular lens. Reports and an image say this one will be very handy.

Tamron’s New Patent Hints at Sigma-Rivaling Superzooms

By Nilofer Khan

July 12, 2025

Tamron is one of the few third-party lens makers that have a positive response in the market. There are many photographers from varied genres who prefer using their lenses over others, thanks to the company's pricing and the performance of the lenses. To ensure that Tamron's portfolio continues to grow, the company is now developing a few ultra-telephoto lenses, which can be a boon for photographers who wish to use one lens for their entire setup. Here's a look at what we know.

4 of the Best Pancake Lenses For Street Photography

By Nilofer Khan

July 12, 2025

Many photographers prefer a smaller set-up. That's because it allows them to travel light, be inconspicuous, as well as you don't compromise on quality. In fact, for many street and documentary photographers, pancake lenses are perfect for a point-and-shoot set-up, which can make shooting quite an exciting experience. To help those who want to continue to keep their setup smaller, here is a selection of a few pancake lenses that we have grown to love.