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

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Here’s the latest:

6 Best-Selling Mirrorless Cameras on Amazon Right Now
By Nilofer Khan
May 14, 2025
Amazon often changes its list of cameras based on the demands of users and their purchase patterns. This time, too, we see a different trend, with Sony and Canon being the most sought-after devices amongst photographers. The list includes some popular names, while some have been recently launched. Either way, each of these cameras has performed well, and here's a look at what they are known best for.

Viltrox 35mm f1.2 FE Lab Review: Not Done by an Influencer
By Chris Gampat
May 14, 2025
I didn't think that it could be done, but Viltrox made a 35mm f1.2 autofocusing lens that I want to carry around with me all the time. And I'm not talking about for just work, but a true 35mm f1.2 that is light enough to want to always bring around with you. What's more, it boasts great image quality and weather resistance.

Will Canon R6 III Have the Same Sensor as the R3?
By Nilofer Khan
May 14, 2025
There are several cameras that people are anticipating seeing this year: Nikon Z7 III, Panasonic S1 II, Sony RX1R III, or Canon's retro camera. Amidst this list is another device that we have been hearing about for a while, but it is only now that we have some reports on its specifications: The Canon R6 III. This is the next full-frame camera, after the R5 II and the R1. Here is what you can expect from it.

What the Latest Tariff Pause Means to the Photo Industry
By Alberto Lima
May 14, 2025
Back on April 11, News Editor, Nilofer Khan, ran through the numbers of what Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs would end up costing photographers. Since then, professionals and enthusiasts alike have begun to feel the impact of the self-inflicted economic uncertainty. From lens manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron, to e-commerce outlets like Moment and Amazon, all have begun to notify customers of expected price increases for many of the tools and accessories we depend on. Today’s news of a temporary truce in the US-China Trade War offers just a tiny bit of relief for the photo industry and to consumers.

The New Panasonic S1 II Has a Lot for Photographers
By Chris Gampat
May 13, 2025
Today, Panasonic is announcing two new cameras in addition to a new lens. Previously, we reported on a teased Panasonic 24-60mm f2.8 lens, and today, it's finally being announced. What's more, we've already had time with it, and so you can check out our coverage on that lens. But perhaps more fascinating are the two new cameras the company is announcing today. Panasonic is taking the cover off of their Panasonic LUMIX S1 II and the LUMIX S1 II E. The former seems to have a lot in common with its predecessor, while incorporating a ton of the new changes that the S1R II received. Meanwhile, the S1 II E takes the sensor from the S5 II and gives it the S1 II's processor and camera body while dropping the price to $2,499 -- positioned between the S5 II and the S1 II. Then, there's a bunch of firmware updates coming too.

Panasonic S1IIE Review: Not Done by an Influencer
By Chris Gampat
May 13, 2025
Something I truly didn't expect to get an announcement today is the new Panasonic S1IIE. This camera is designed to be placed in between the Panasonic S1II and the Panasonic S5II. The latter is a camera that arguably won over so many users from Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, and perhaps even film. It takes the S5II's sensor and stuffs it into the S1II. But what's even cooler, is that they're dropping the price with it being only $2,499. So what we do think? Well, the Panasonic S1IIE has the "E" in the name for essentials. But it should probably stand for "excellent" instead.

Panasonic S 24-60mm f2.8 Review: Not Done by an Influencer
By Chris Gampat
May 13, 2025
Previously, a Panasonic 24-60mm f2.8 lens was teased to the press. And now, that lens is launching. We've got to be honest, we kind of wanted an f2 instead. However, we're getting something with insanely fast focusing. In fact, we're nearly in shock at how fast this zoom lens can focus on the subject that you want. Plus, it boasts weather resistance, an affordable price tag, and custom function buttons. We're still testing it out, but we're bound to really like this thing.

The Best LED Light for Photography We’ve Tested
By Chris Gampat
May 13, 2025
I never thought that I'd type that title. As it is, I'm not a fan of LED lights. I think that they do too much of guiding my creativity rather than letting me be with my own thoughts and make something that truly speaks to my soul. But the Harlowe Avant Max Weather Resistant has to be truly the best LED light that I've ever tested. In fact, I haven't wanted to use a monolight at all since 2011 when Photogenic used to put products out. But this one is pretty special. First off, it's weather resistant -- and that not only means that I can shoot in the rain, but it will last. Lots of LED lights I've found to pale in comparison to Profoto lights. But I've used the Avant Max Weather Resistant on shoots and truly loved what it can do.

Can’t Afford a New Camera? Make Your Older One Last
By Chris Gampat
May 13, 2025
This is the perfect thing for photographers who don't want a new camera and can't afford one. 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, etc. That's why we created the Photography Care Program, in collaboration with Full Frame Insurance. Dust affects your camera and lens performance more than you think, and unless you're constantly cleaning the lens contacts, your autofocus performance could end up pretty wonky. But just in case something happens, you can ensure your camera gear is always covered.