DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY DAILY

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY DAILY’S Top 40 Digital Photography Products : updated 2010-02-28

Here you’ll find the top digital camera and digital photography products. Product ratings are determined by complex statistical algorithms formulated by our staff, usually on a whim.  Though this is proprietary science, you can be assured that the rankings take into account  popularity, quality, usefulness, and industry sales-ranks.

OK, lets be honest, we’re using common sense, industry expertise, and some hands-on experience to determine rankings. The dart board is a big help too.

1. Canon EOS 7D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-inch LCD and 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens

Still the gear choice of most Canon DSLR photographers. With that excellent Canon trusty 28-135mm lens, this combo is a winner in the under-2K category.  Now with an 18 MP sensor and HD video, this camera rocks even more. Here are the highlights:

• 18.0-megapixel CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 image processors

• ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800) for shooting from bright to dim light. 8.0fps continuous shooting up to 126 Large/JPEGs with UDMA CF card and 15 RAW images (thats fast)
• Advanced movie mode with manual exposure control and selectable frame rates. Three recording sizes for video Full HD Video is captured at 1920 x 1080 resolution

I’ve written a more detailed article on this, click here to read!

2. Canon EOS Rebel T1i 15.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

Forget using the kit lens on this camera, get one of those all-in-one 18-270mm Tamron’s, and you have a kick-ass DSLR setup on the cheap. See # 3 on our list this week, and you’ll know why.

The Canon Digital Rebel series of cameras are partially responsible for the boom in this industry. They were the first to come out with an affordable DSLR for under $1000, and have continuously improved the camera since the first 6MP model was introduced a few years ago. The new kit lens has IS, which helps. I still think putting that monster Tamron 18-270 on this baby is the hot setup. Here are some of the highlights:

• New 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with DIGIC 4 Image Processor
• Includes Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens
• Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution; HDMI output (great addition!)
• 3.0-inch Clear View LCD; Live View Function for stills (Quick, Live and Face Detection AF modes) and video. Did they say Live View? Wow…

3. Tamron AF 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical IF Macro Zoom Lens for Canon DSLR or the Nikon  version -  Tamron AF 18-70 f/3.5-6.3 DiII VC LD Aspherical IF Macro Zoom for Nikon DSLR (built-in Motor for Nikon cameras)

I owned an earlier version of the Tamron (18-200), with OK results on a Digital Rebel. Tamron has improved upon a decent lens with this one, adding VC (Vibration Control) for sharp, handheld images. Love to have one for my Nikon D90…

Here is the skinny. I’ve seen excellent results with this lens, and wouldn’t have any problems putting it on a digital SLR with an APS C size sensor. This is about as good as an all-in-one lens as your gonna get. Team this up with a Nikon D5000, D90, D300s, Canon 7D or a T1i, and you have a winning combination. By the way, Peter Burian wrote a very good review of this lens, check it out at http://shutterbug.com/equipmentreviews/lenses/0409tamron/.

4. Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD

Just a few years ago, an entry level DSLR would have put you back about $1500 with a kit lens, a couple flash cards, and a few filters. These days, we’re getting twice the megapixels, HD Video, improved processing in-camera, image stabelization, and a slew of other offerings for about 1/2 the price.  As a bonus, this little DSLR has geotagging as well (functionality reviously introduced as standard equipment in the Coolpix 6000).

For under $700 U.S., this is a steal. Pair this camera with the new Tamron AF 18-270mm, and you have a feature packed digital camera with a huge zoom range, and a great lens to boot, on the cheap too.

5. Photoshop Elements 8 (Windows), Photoshop Elements 8 (Mac)

By far the best software value in the entire digital photography world. For under a hundred bucks, you get a full featured image editor, aimed at photographers. I’ve been writing about Elements and teaching it in my workshops for few years now, and every year, Adobe keeps making the software better and better with every new release.

Organizing your image library with the Elements Organizer is worth the price of the software itself.  Teaching and writing about Photoshop and Elements, I’ve heard from a lot of photographers that they are perfectly content with Elements, instead of the much more costly older brother Photoshop. I use both, and I can’t argure the point.  For most photographers, Elements does the job.

Great for beginners and experienced photographers alike, for under $90 U.S., you can’t go wrong with this software.

6. Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera

Like the D100, D200, and D300 that preceded this semi-pro model, the D300s is Nikons workhorse for the masses. With a more professional build than consumer based DSLRs, the D300s continues on the tradition of the Nikon tank for APS-C (DX) sized sensors.  This is the DSLR choice for many Nikon enthusiasts as well as professionals, for many reasons:

• New 720p HD video recording. Heck, thats better than most $40,000 professional cameras!
• Now up to 7 frames per second shooting
• Its built like a tank
• The product line has long been Nikons flagship for its DX platform, an industry proven winner. This sets the standard for APS-C based digital cameras (along with the Canon equivelant 7D)

In summary, this camera will probably outlive most of us. The eternal question though, which lens is best for this camera? Try Nikon’s new 18-200. You can get both as a package:

Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Telephoto Zoom Lens

7. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens

I owned this lens, and it was the best Canon lens I had. An absolute must-have in every Canon digital SLR shooters camera bag. The 50mm f/1.8 lens, for around a hundred bucks, is going to give you a couple things; First, its going to be your sharpest lens, hands down. Second, it’ll be your fastest lens. With a maximum aperture of f/1.8, it’ll be your low-light go-to lens. I recommend this lens for every Canon shooter, just as I recommend the Nikon equivalent for every Nikon shooter.

Technical Details:

• 50mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture
• Traditional Gauss-type optical design is extremely sharp
• Focuses as close as 18 inches for extreme close-ups
• Ideal for natural-looking shots; excellent color balance
• Measures 2.7 inches in diameter; 1-year warranty

8. Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Just like the Canon Equivalent mentioned above, the Nikon 50mm F/1.8D is the second-best lens in my camera bag (my Nikon gear). I use it often when shooting still life objects, especially my flower images. Its just that sharp, and just that fast. I have often used this as my secondary portrait lens. Again, for around $100, its a no-brainer.

• High-speed normal lens
• Great for travel and for shooting full-length portraits in available light
• Distortion-free images with superb resolution and color rendition
• Provides high-contrast images even at maximum aperture

9. Canon PowerShot G11 10MP Digital Camera with 5x Wide Angle Optical Stabilized Zoom and 2.8-inch articulating LCD

Actually, this should have placed higher, but there are so many other great tools out there, we couldn’t have rated this any higher. The decision caused massive distraction in the Top 40 team room. We had to medicate the chimpanzee’s when they out-argued themselves on this choice, trying to figure out the best rating for this compact digital camera.  After a double-dose of Xanax and a couple martini’s for each chimpanzee, our staff finally calmed down.  We had to send Bubbles home for the day though.

First, let me say, congratulations to Canon on this model. The good folks at Canon (Konnichiwa!) for stepping back from the megapixel race, and reducing the MP’s for this model to a more reasonable 10MP. The previous model, the G10, was still a great camera, but the 14 megapixel sensor just had too many of those pesky pixels. Reducing the number of pixels to 10 megapixels ensures better quality for our images. The result? less noise and sharper images when our sensors are properly sized, and not crammed with those little pixels. Here’s more tech info:

• New 10-megapixel High Sensitivity System; DIGIC 4 Image Processor
• Bright 2.8-inch Vari-Angle PureColor System LCD plus optical viewfinder
• Wide-angle 5x optical zoom (equivalent to 28-140mm); Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer
• Improved Smart AUTO intelligently selects from 22 predefined shooting situations
• RAW + JPEG shooting and recording modes; capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

No brainer here folks. For a compact digital camera, this is as close as you’re gonna get to full functionality in a camera you can fit in your pocket. Its a great second camera for us pro’s, and an even greater carry-wherever-you-go camera.  Whenever anyone asks me for recommendations for purchasing a compact digital camera, this is the one I recommend. Don’t bother looking up the reviews and comparisons, this one wins most.

10. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 12.1MP Digital Camera with 18x POWER Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7 inch LCD

This is one of the bestselling super-compacts on the market. I couldn’t mention the Canon G11 without mentioning this all-in-one compact too. Two elements we like here. First, a 12.1MP sensor. Cleaner than 14MP in other models. Second, its lens. 18X optical, with a 35MM equivalent of 27mm on the wide-end. Zooming to a 35MM equivalent of 486MM.  That is quite a zoom range, for any photographer.

For the price, you can’t get as many features packed into any camera this small, and get quality output, after all, it has a Leica lens.

In addition to being a nice everyday digital camera for any enthusiast, this is a great second-camera, carry around camera, and even better, travel camera for the more serious photographer.

Details:

• Power O.I.S image stabilizer
• 12.1-megapixel resolution
• 27mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens; 18x optical zoom with POWER O.I.S.
• HD movies with 1280 x 720-pixel resolution; AVCHD Lite format
• 2.7-inch TFT LCD screen
• Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards

11. Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

The original 5D kicked off the “somewhat affordable” full frame revolution not only for Canon DSLR users, but for Nikon and Sony as well. Canon has now presented us with the “dream” full-frame digital SLR camera, one which sets the bar for all others in its price range, the 5D Mark II. Combine that with the excellent EF 24-105MM f/4 L IS USM Lens, and you have a great setup. This is by far the premier digital SLR for the serious photographer, pro and enthusiast alike.

• 21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 14-bit A/D conversion, wide range ISO setting 100-6400
• Includes Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM lens
• DIGIC 4 Image Processor; high-performance 3.9 fps continuous shooting; Live View Function for stills
• Full HD video capture at 1920×1080 resolution for up to 4GB per clip ; HDMI output

12. Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

We gave up trying to figure out the Canon and Nikon DSLR model numbering scheme a long time ago. The D700 is Nikon’s “entry” full frame DSLR, in other words, a pro-level camera that’s affordable for the enthusiast or professional photographer. Don’t let the 12MP full size sensor throw you off, its a quality sensor with quality pixels. This is Nikon’s answer to the Canon 5D. If you’re a Nikon shooter, this is your upgrade.

The kit lens, 24-120 f/2.5-5.6 IF VR Nikkor Zoom is a very good match for the full size sensor, which is super important. The last thing you want is to put a mediocre lens in front of a world-class image sensor. When holding this in my hands, the camera is built like a tank, and definitely has the pro-feel about it.

You can say goodbye to image noise here:

“The D700’s 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS image sensor provides exceptional image quality throughout its remarkable ISO sensitivity range. A large pixel size of 8.45 µm allows for an extremely low signal-to-noise ratio and a wide dynamic range. The 12-channel readout enables accelerated information transfer, allowing the D700 to shoot at speeds of up to eight frames per second at full resolution (using the optional MB-D10 Multi Power Battery Pack) and quickly write image data onto the CompactFlash card”

• 12.1-megapixel FX-format (23.9 x 36mm) CMOS sensor; kit includes 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR Nikkor zoom lens
• 3.0-inch, 920,000-dot VGA color monitor; 170-degree wide-angle viewing and tempered-glass protection
• Fast, accurate 51-point AF system; 3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes
• Base ISO range from 200-6400 can be expanded to range from ISO 100 (Lo-1) to 25,600 (Hi-2); 0.12-second start-up speed
• Capture images to CF I/II cards; compliant high-speed UDMA CF cards that will enable recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second

13. Canon EOS 1D Mark IV 16.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD and 1080p HD Video

The new, undisputed king of DSLRs where price isn’t an object, this is Canon’s new flagship full frame DSLR. Canon took its best professional practices, and integrated them into the new leader. This is a professional tool, built for the professional.  Its where silly arguments like megapixel count is left for the amateurs. This is the best quality and most durable camera available. About twice the cost of Canon’s more affortable full frame EOS 5-D, this full frame DSLR is in another class.

This is a camera NASA would put into space on its own. Nothing but an ‘L’ lens will do on this camera, but in that price range, really isn’t an issue anyway for the buyer. Image noise isn’t even in the manual, its going to be non-existent. Image quality is going to surpass anything we’ve seen. Can’t wait to start seeing some images from this camera. This camera, in the hands of the the photographer that knows how to use it, is a very dangerous thing!

Click Here to download the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV white paper.

• 16.1-megapixel APS-H CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 imaging processors
• 45-point Area AF sensor including 39 cross-type AF points with f/2.8 support
• ISO 100-12,800 for shooting from bright to dim light with low noise levels
• EOS HD movie with manual exposure control and multiple frame rates; 3.0-inch Clear View II LCD monitor
• Magnesium alloy body with shutter durability up to 300,000 cycles and exclusive dust-and-weather resistance
• Body only, lenses sold separately; capture images to CF Card Type I and II, SD/SDHC

14. Nikon D3x 24.5MP FX Digital SLR

Can’t list the Canon flagship without listing the Nikon flagship. This is the Nikon “mother of all digital cameras”. At this level, you can’t say which one is better, the Canon or the Nikon. At this level, it all depends on what you shoot, and whether you can afford the price for the best.

There are going to be arguments to which is better, and we really don’t think there is ever going to be a relevant answer. If the Canon EOS 1-D Mark IV is going into space, so is this one.

• Extreme resolution 24.5-megapixel FX-format (35.9 x 24.0mm) CMOS sensor
• Nikon EXPEED image processing technologies; 138 MB processed NEF (RAW) 12 or 14-bit image files
• 3-inch super-density 920,000-dot VGA LCD monitor; 100 percent viewfinder coverage
• Two Live View shooting modes; continuous shooting at up to 5 fps at full FX-format resolution
• Dual CF card slots with overflow, backup and copy options

15. The Nikon D90 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

Lots of DSLRs in the Top 15, but, we couldn’t crowd it up without including the Nikon D90. Announced in August 2008, its been around for around a year and a half. Very quietly, this camera is pretty much one of the top 3 sellers of all DSLRs, and for good reason.

A host of features, plus the image quality of the D300/D300s, plus the addition of HD video where the D80 had none, makes this a great feature packed DSLR. Here’s the product description:

Fusing 12.3-megapixel image quality inherited from the award-winning D300 with groundbreaking features, the D90s breathtaking, low-noise image quality is further advanced with EXPEED image processing. Split-second shutter response and continuous shooting at up to 4.5 frames-per-second provide the power to capture fast action and precise moments perfectly, while Nikons exclusive Scene Recognition System contributes to faster 11-area autofocus performance, finer white balance detection and more. The D90 delivers the control passionate photographers demand, utilizing comprehensive exposure functions and the intelligence of 3D Color Matrix Metering II. Stunning results come to life on a 3-inch 920,000-dot color LCD monitor, providing accurate image review, Live View composition and brilliant playback of the D90s cinematic-quality 24-fps HD D-Movie mode.

As an owner of the Nikon line, like the Nikon D70 digital camera and the D80 that have preceded it, the D90 is bound to be a classic. For a little over a grand for the camera and 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens, its a great combination. Nikon is known for including excellent “kit” lenses in its D70/D80/D90 line.

Tip: Team this up with the Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Telephoto Zoom Lens, and you have one killer DSLR setup.

16. Flip MinoHD Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Brushed Metal) NEWEST MODEL

Hey! I thought this was a digital photography site! Well, digital photographers are also media geeks. We tend to be more on the cutting edge. Why should we let all the kids have the fun? Seriously, we need to take notice. This is the bestselling camera/video product on the market, and it just wouldn’t be fair not to include the Flip in the Digital Photography Daily Top 100. Here are the official bullets:

• All-new MinoHD is the world’s sleekest HD camcorder
• Captures 120 minutes of stunning HD video on 8 GB of built-in memory; no additional memory needed
• Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
• FlipShare software makes it easy to email videos, edit individual clips, make custom movies, capture still-image snapshots, and upload video to Facebook , MySpace , YouTube and other sharing sites
• Large, 2-Inch anti-glare color display to play back and delete videos

This also appears in one of my posts, but you can read the extended version of this entry on the Flip Mino HD in Digital Photography Daily.

17. Adobe Photoshop CS4 Windows, or Adobe Photoshop CS4 Mac

The tool of choice for serious digital photographers has always been Adobe Photoshop. We’re now into version 11, now called CS4, and the versions keep coming every few years. Upgrading every two years may not be necessary for the casual user, for the professional, its often desired.

I’ve been using Photoshop for over 10 years now. I’ve written books on it, taught classes, and tested future versions. Adobe Photoshop CS4Sometimes, its a good idea to kick back and reflect on whats so cool about a software title. It makes you rediscover why we love our craft so much in the first place.

Read more of this entry:  10 Reasons To Love Photoshop from Digital Photography Daily

Adobe Photoshop CS4 Student and Upgrade Options (save some money!)

• Adobe Photoshop CS4 Upgrade Windows
• Adobe Photoshop CS4 Upgrade Mac
• Adobe Photoshop CS4 Extended Student, (Windows), Adobe Photoshop CS4 Extended (Mac)

18. Photomatix Pro 3

If you’re wondering what the biggest trend in digital photography is, its High Dynamic Range photography (HDR). High Dynamic Range digital photography has taken off, and is going to be a top advanced-technique for a long time. Basically, you take a number of bracketed shots, and combine them, in software, to expand the dynamic range of an image. You’ve probably seen these images, they are amazing in the detail and exposure in all exposure ranges of an image. Photomatix Pro is the top software on the market to guide you and your bracketed images to your goal of High Dynamic Range photography. Here are the bullets:

19. Canon PowerShot SX20IS 12.1MP Digital Camera with 20x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch Articulating LCD

• High-powered 20x wide-angle optical zoom with Optical Image StabilizerCapture
• 720p HD movies with stereo sound; HDMI output connector for easy playback on your HDTV2.5-inch Vari-Angle System LCD; improved Smart AUTO intelligently selects from 22 predefined shooting situations
• DIGIC 4 Image Processor; 12.1-megapixel resolution for poster-size, photo-quality prints
• Powered by AA batteries (included); capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

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20. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2

First Came Photoshop. Then came Bridge. Then came Apples Aperture. Then came Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, and the landscape for image management and batch processing has been established. Now in version 2, soon to be 3, Lightroom has become the standard pro Photoshop “accessory” for professional and enthusiasts alike.

Ah you ask, what does Lightroom do for me what Bridge/Photoshop/ACR (Adobe Camera Raw) doesn’t? Well, it streamlines your Raw workflow, gives a much better organization to large image libraries, and integrates right into Photoshop. Think of Lightroom as the Raw converter and image manager that ACR and Bridge didn’t live up to.

To be honest, I think for the price Adobe charges for Photoshop, this should be included, but they won’t listen to me. Still worth the price for pro’s though. And its cool.

Here are the bullets from Adobe:

• Enhance specific areas of a photo, or precisely adjust overall color, exposure, and tonal range nondestructively
• Automatically import, rename, and sort your entire shoot; find your photos quickly with powerful yet flexible sorting, selecting, and organizational tools
• Present your work in dynamic slide shows, interactive web galleries, and a variety of flexible print templates; easily upload your photos to popular online photo-sharing sites
• Configure your workspace to manage image workflow and presentation more efficiently thanks to support for multiple monitors
• Every change you make to an image is automatically tracked, so you can return to any state with a single click

21. Canon Digital Rebel T2i

The reason this isn’t rated higher, it’s new, and needs to earn itself a higher ranking. Plus, at the time of the ranking, it wasn’t available on the market yet. This is the newest of Canon’s Digital Rebel line. I have to say, getting a digital SLR with these features, at this price with a kit lens is quite remarkable. Thank goodness for market dynamics! Photographers are surely the beneficiaries of market competition. For the price, this is what you get:

• 18.0-megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor; DIGIC 4 image processor for high image quality and speed
• Kit includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens
• ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) for shooting from bright to dim light; enhanced 63-zone, Dual-layer metering system
• Improved EOS Movie mode with manual exposure control and expanded recording 1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
• Wide 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor; dedicated Live View/Movie shooting button
• New compatibility with SDXC memory cards, plus new menu status indicator for Eye-Fi support

22. Sigma DP1s 14MP FOVEON X3 CMOS Sensor Digital Camera

Let me start off by saying that this is a specialty camera. Sigma has developed a camera, based on its Foveon Sensor for purists (like me) who wish to have a rangefinder type camera with a first class fixed wide angle fixed focal length lens  (28mm equivalent) and a world class digital SLR sensor, the same they use in their SD14 DSLR.  What we received was the Sigma DP1 (upgraded now to the DP1s).

Basically, Sigma developed a product nobody else has, a simple compact camera with a digital SLR sensor and a fixed lens, dedicated toward wide angle shooting. How would you like to have a camera that fits in your pocket, and gives you world-class wide angle? This would be a nice-have for city, architectural or landscape photographers.

Here are the details:

• 14-megapixel FOVEON X3 direct image sensor and lens
• Enrich the images it captures with superb resolution
• It speeds and improves common settings
• Three-dimensional Camera
• Focal length is 16.6mm

Sigma also has the same camera but with a “normal” lens (35mm equivalent focal length: 41mm) in the Sigma DP2.

23. Epson Stylus Photo R2880 Large Format Printer

I used to sell computers and peripherals about 25-some years ago when starting out in my career. Back then, out best vendors were IBM, HP and Epson. Epson made great, bullet proof printers 25 years ago, and now, their making bullet proof photo printers. I still have my first Epson photo printer (the Stylus 870) from 10 years ago, and it still prints like it’s new, after thousands of prints. Great Quality too.  I expect the same durability from my newer Epson printers.

The Stylus Photo R2880 is the industry photo printer standard. It prints up to 13″ wide media, so if you’re printing in the 11 X 14 inch or 11 X 17 inch range like I do, this is the printer you want. Additionally, black and white prints are striking on this printer, making it the favorite among black and white fine-art photographers. Color is exceptional with Epsons UltraChrome K3 ink set.

• Create exhibition quality prints with brilliant reds, blues and purples using Epson UltraChrome K3 with Vivid Magenta Ink
• Produce stunning neutral or toned black–and–white prints via Advanced Black–and–White Photo Mode
• Print images with outstanding tonal range through three–level black technology
• Achieve smoother color transitions and improved highlight and shadow detail with Radiance technology
• Explore your creativity — print on a variety of media types including roll paper, fine art media or 1.3 mm thick art board
• Ensure consistent output from printer to printer with Epson PreciseColor™ — no calibration required
• Receive specialized support for the R2880 from a dedicated team at Epson
• Weight and Dimensions (WxDxH) — Weight: 27.1 lb, Printing: 24.3″ x 31.4″ x 16.3″, Storage: 24.3″ x 12.7″ x 8.4″

24.  Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head

We’re assuming you’re doing the right thing and using a tripod, right? The Manfrotto 322RC2 “Joystick” ball head is listed here for two reasons; popularity (it is the top selling tripod head) and function. Team that up with the build quality Manfrotto has to offer, and you have a great head

From the Manufacture:

• Sturdy all-metal construction.
• The compact, rectangular 200PL quick release plate system fits neatly under small-bodied still cameras up to SLR (even with tele lenses) or small medium format, or under small video cameras or spotting scopes.
• This head features a secondary security lock so you can’t accidentally release the plate (and camera) without meaning to. The lock stops the quick release lever from opening fully.
• A convenient single locking mechanism blocks or frees movement on all axes for greater speed of use.
• Separate control for pre-setting the friction of the ball when unblocked. The position of the red line indicates the approximate amount of friction applied.
• By keeping the head and camera mounting plate as low as possible, the camera is kept safely closer to the tripod’s center of gravity for more stable support.
• Thanks to the repositionable camera plate, this can be used right- or left-handed.
• The built-in, carefully hand-set bubble spirit level helps make sure your horizons really are horizontal.

25. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens for Canon EOS SLR Cameras

Canon’s line of f/4L lenses have a great reputation for the most disconcerting of Canon shooters, pro’s and enthusiast alike. The 24-105mm f/4L IS is a great choice as the everyday walkaround lens for the Canon DSLR user who’s shooting APS-C or full frame. For full frame shooters, the use of L designated lenses should be mandatory. Those sensors need good glass in front of them to match its quality, both sensor and lens.  IS (anti shake) is a must now for us, and one lens specification we’ve come to expect.  In any case, this is one quality piece of glass.

• 24-105mm standard zoom lens with f/4 maximum aperture for Canon EOS SLR cameras
• 1 Super UD glass element and 3 aspherical lenses minimize chromatic aberration and distortion
• Ring-type USM system delivers silent but quick autofocus (AF); full-time manual focus
• Image Stabilizer technology steadies camera shake at up to 3 stops; weighs 23.6 ounces
• Dust- and moisture-resistant; measures 3.3 inches in diameter and 4.2 inches long; 1-year warranty

26. Nik Software Complete Collection – Professional Photographic Tools for Photoshop, Lightroom, and Aperture

Nik has the reputation of developing professional level filters for Photoshop, Lightroom and Aperture. I’ve used almost all of them. If you use Photoshop for both color or black and white editing, then the Complete Collection is a must for you.

The complete collection includes:

• Dfine 2.0
• Viveza
• Color Efex Pro 3.0
• Silver Efex Pro
• Sharpener Pro 3.0.

27. Canon Speedlite 580EX II Flash for Canon EOS Digital SLR Cameras

Canon’s flagship flash, with good reason. If you’re thinking of getting an external flash for your DSLR and you’re a Canon shooter, this is the speedlight for you. I would suggest skipping the 430EX and opt for the more powerful 580EXII, its just worth the extra cashola.

As an owner of a few of these, I recommend them, especially if you’re into using multiple speedlights in a wireless setting, great for still lifes and portraits.

Here are the basics:

• E-TTL operation with all EOS digital SLRs; PowerShot G2, G3, G5, G6, and Pro1; and the following EOS film cameras – EOS-1v, EOS-3, Elan 7N series
• Guide Number 190 (at ISO 100, feet) / 58 (meters); flash head at 105mm zoom setting
• About 100 to 700 Flashes with fresh AA-size alkaline batteries / Uses Four AA-size batteries – alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable Ni-MH usable
• AutoFocus Assist Beam
• Fourteen Speedlite Custom Functions built-in; set on Speedlite’s LCD panel

28. The Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet

If you’re a Photoshop user, you’re more familiar with the problems of editing than others. For graphic artists, the mouse as a pointing device just doesn’t suffice. Its just too crude of a pointing, tracing or drawing tool. If you’re using the touch pad on a laptop, its even more of crude process.  Graphic artists are used to working with a pen, thus a mouse won’t do. Photographers that do a lot of editing and selections in Photoshop are in the same boat, the mouse is just to blunt of an instrument to use for fine selections and editing. Enter the tool that pro’s have been using for years, the graphics tablet. Here are the bullets:

• Quickly and professionally edit photos and create digital artwork with natural pen control
• New pen tip sensor technology lowers activation force and captures every nuance of pen pressure
• 2048 levels of pen pressure sensitivity for precise pressure control
• User-defined ExpressKeys & multi function Touch Ring put time saving shortcuts, modifiers, scrolling, zooming, and more at your fingertips.
• Illuminated ExpressKey displays provide a constant reference each Keys setting.

Click here for a more detailed post on the Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet

29. Nikon SB-900 AF Speedlight Flash for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

We just mentioned Canon’s flagship speedlight, now lets mention Nikon’s. For about 5 years, I owned 4 of the SB-800 speedlights from Nikon. I used them wirelessly for my portrait and wedding work. They worked flawlessly, and surprisingly easy if you follow the directions for the Nikon Creative Lighting System. Since then, Nikon has “one-upped” itself with the introduction of the newest flagship in its speedlight line, the SB-900 AF Speedlight.

I’ve been asked if I’m going to upgrade my SB-800’s to the 900’s, and the answer is why? Nikon builds these things to last years. Pro Nikon shooters I know are still using speedlights they bought when they were working with film cameras years ago. They just don’t die!

If you’re using the SB-600 and are ready to move up to the more powerful SB-900, I highly recommend it. If you don’t have a speedlight for your Nikon DSLR, you’re missing out. Indoors, bouncing the speedlight off the ceiling onto your subjects creates the best light I’ve seen for indoor flash. Its a HUGE difference than using the onboard little flash’s they put on these DSLRs.

From Nikon:

• High-quality flash for standalone use or as part of a comprehensive lighting system
• Commander mode controls up to 3 Speedlight groups or unlimited individual Speedlights
• wireless channel options; prominent master and remote control switch for wireless operation
• Auto power zoom coverage ranges from 17 to 200mm (FX format) to 12 to 200mm (DX format)
• 3 light distribution patterns; measures 3 x 5.7 x 4.7 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 14.6 ounces

30. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

If you’re a Canon DSLR shooter, this is the must-have lens in your camera bag if you’re into getting the best quality images in the 70-200mm range. We don’t have to gush about the merits of the lens, experienced Canon shooters are going to tell you the same thing. Having one of these is much more important than upgrading your DSLR every few years. This is the core of your Canon DSLR system.

Product Description

Incorporating Canon’s second-generation Image Stabilization technology, this 70-200mm telephoto zoom responds in as little as 0.5 seconds while providing up to three stops of correction for camera shake. As a result, you can easily capture the far-off action of fast-paced sports or zoom in for an intimate portrait with a blurred background. The lens’s autofocus (AF) system, meanwhile, has been refined for better response time and tracking speed. And photographers will love the new eight-blade circular aperture, which offers a more pleasing out-of-focus image. Constructed to pro standards, the EF 70-200mm lens is highly dust- and moisture-resistant and carries a one-year warranty.

• Focal length: 70-200mm
• Maximum aperture: 1:2.8
• Lens construction: 23 elements in 18 groups
• Diagonal angle of view: 34 to 12 degrees
• Focus adjustment: Inner focusing system with USM
• Closest focusing distance: 4.3 feet
• Zoom system: Rotating type
• Filter size: 77mm
• Dimensions: 3.4 inches in diameter, 7.8 inches long
• Weight: 3.24 pounds

31. Hoya  DMC PRO1 Digital Circular Polarizer Glass Filter

Digital camera users spend thousands on DSLR bodies and lenses, but seldom think about filters to put in front of those lenses. Placing a cheapie UV protective filter over a $1000 lens ruins the whole process. When putting filters on your camera, make sure you’re putting the best you can over that lens to maximize the quality of your photography. The most popular filters are circular polarizer’s, especially for the landscape photographer. Hoya makes a pro line of filters that cost a little more, but are a lot better than the trash you’ll get at your local chain store. Invest the extra few bucks, your images will thank you for it later…

Hoya 77mm DMC PRO1 Digital Circular Polarizer Glass Filter

Hoya 67mm DMC PRO1 Digital Circular Polarizer Glass Filter

Hoya 62mm DMC PRO1 Digital Circular Polarizer Glass Filter

Hoya 58mm DMC PRO1 Digital Multi-Coated CIR-PL Filter

32. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Ultra Wide Angle Zoom Lens

We’re getting into some pro glass here for Canon die hard landscape shooters. Just like the EF 70-200 F/2.8 USM L is the telephoto choice for Canon shooters, this is the Canon “L”  for the wide angler. Essential for architectural and landscape, you only want the best lens in front of your full frame sensor or APS-C sensor on a Canon. This is the lens for either type. I would buy one of these before upgrading my Canon DSLR. Like I’ve stated, the system is based on the lenses first.

Here are the details:

• 16-35mm ultra-wide-angle zoom lens with f/2.8 maximum aperture
• 3 high-precision aspherical lens elements produce superior image quality
• Circular aperture produces natural background blur at wider apertures
• Ring-type USM for fast and quiet autofocusing; internal focusing
• Measures 3.5 inches in diameter and 4.4 inches long; 1-year warranty

33. Nikon 12-24mm f/4G ED IF Autofocus DX Nikkor,  and the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Nikkor Wide Angle Zoom Lenses

We can’t mention Canon L lenses without mentioning Nikon ED lenses, and here are two of Nikon’s premier wide angle lenses for it’s APS-C DSLR’s (note, the DX designation is for Nikon APS-C sensor DSLRs),  and full size sensor pro DSLRs.  At just under $1000 U.S., the DX  is the perfect wide angle for the D200, D300s or D90 shooter. If you want to upgrade to a full size sensor DSLR like the Nikon D700, you’ll need to opt forthe 14-24mm f/2.8. Either way, you’re getting the best glass Nikon has to offer for the extreme wide angle of the zoom spectrum.

Nikon 12-24mm f/4G ED IF Autofocus DX Nikkor (put this one on your D200, D300, D300s, D90)

• 12-24mm autofocus zoom lens with f/4 maximum aperture for Nikon digital SLR cameras

• 2 Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and 3 aspherical lens elements for superior optics
• D-type design provides precise distant information for flash and ambient light exposure
• Rounded diaphragm makes out-of-focus elements appear natural; 11.8-inch close focus distance
• Measures 3.2 inches in diameter and 3.5 inches long; weighs 1.07 pounds; 5-year warranty

Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Nikkor Wide Angle (for the big sensor D700, D3X)

• AF-S Nikkor 14-24mm f/2.8G ED lens
• 21-36mm Effective Focal Length with APS-C Sensor Cameras
• Ideal for Wide-angle Shots of Landscapes and Scenery
• Lens Construction: 14 Elements in 11 groups
• Contains Two ED (extra-low dispersion) Lens Elements for High Resolution and Contrast

As far as purchasing the sharpest lenses money can buy at the wide angle, actually the extreme wide angle, adding one of these, either one to your camera bag is a must if you’re a serious photographer, especially for architectural and landscapes. The results of using these are remarkable.

34.  Western Digital My Book Mirror Edition 2TB USB 2.0

If you’re wondering what an external hard disk is doing on a Top 40 digital photography page, it all has to do with digital images and hard disk crashes. Think about it. You spend bundles traveling to the greatest places on earth to take photographs, or even in your own home of your family. Why not protect those digital files by backing them up to an external hard disk? I was an IT guy for many years, and I always made sure my systems were backed up, at least to 2 spots. Getting an external hard disk that mirrors itself to another hard disk just to be sure, is your best way to protect your digital images from disappearing from your computer once your hard disk crashes.

We computer geeks have a saying; there are two types of computer hard drives, one that have failed, and one that’s going to fail. I write a chapter in almost every book I publish just on this subject alone. Do yourself a favor, and start backing your image folder to a dedicated external hard disk, one that has mirroring capability. By the way, mirroring protects you if and when your external disk fails too. You can’t be too careful! FYI, I’ve had mine running for the past year without a hitch.

35.  Aperture 3

When you run in the Photoshop circles, you run into a lot of Mac users. They are a pretty stuborn bunch those Mac heads. They live in another world. Most of us use PC’s, but in photography and graphics, Mac’s rule the professional ranks. In graphics, its always been that way. Next time you’re in Starbucks, check out the geeks working on their computers. I bet almost 1/2 of them are using their Mac’s. Therefore….

We need to mention Apple’s image organization and editing software, Aperture 3. In its third version know (hence, the “3″), Aperture was actually out before Lightroom, so if you ever get in an argument with a Mac user, I would concede this one.

From the manufacture:

• Aperture 3 helps you refine images, showcase your work, and manage massive libraries on your Mac
• Features new ways to organize your photos by the people in them and more robust GPS tools for mapping images
• Apply or remove adjustments and effects to selected parts of your images with nondestructive, edge-aware brushes
• Instantly give your images a custom look or emulate a variety of camera types and processing styles
• Create stunning slideshows that weave together photos and HD video clips, complete with text and soundtracks

36. ColorVision  Spyder3 Pro

If you read my free eBook, Improve Your Photography, there is a chapter in there about color management. In there, I mention a few colorimeters, one of them being the Spyder3 Pro. I’ve used Spyder’s for the past 5 years, and I can attest, when I do keep up and calibrate my monitor my images on-screen do indeed match what comes out on my Epson printers. Color management is a must for digital photographers, and the road to getting there isn’t wasting ink and paper trying to guess how to correct your images. Save yourself some money and mental anguish, get a good color management solution before you go postal.

From ColorVision:

• Third Generation Spyder Technology: The Spyder3 colorimeter is based on a state-of-the-art optical design.
• A unique fusion of design excellence and functionality, Spyder3 offers a smaller footprint, embedded ambient light sensor and LED indicator.
• Spyder3 increases light sensitivity 400%. It also features the largest screen sample area or aperture in the industry.
• ReCAL option reduces calibration time by more than half allowing you to quickly and easily re-calibrate on a more frequent basis
• Utilizing an embedded high-precision sensor, Spyder3 automatically measures the ambient light within a room for a new level of precision calibration.

37. NEC MultiSync LCD2490W2-BK-SV – LCD display – TFT – 24″ – widescreen – 1920 x 1200 / 60 Hz – 320 cd/m2 – 1000:1 – 8 ms – 0.27 mm – DVI-I, DVI-D, VGA – black – with SpectraViewII Color Calibration Solution 

Speaking of color management, little did you know that there were a few high end computer monitors out there that were actually targeted toward the graphic artist or photographer. The NEC MultiSync LCD 2490 comes with its own built in SpectraViewII color calibration system. This is a computer monitor, 24″, meant for the photographer.

From NEC:

Touting many advanced color performance technologies, the 24″ NEC MultiSync LCD2490W2-BK-SV equips you with all of the features and benefits ideal for high-end graphics applications. This display features the SpectraViewII color calibration solution, which combines a customized wide color gamut measurement sensor with sophisticated software, resulting in a highly accurate, reliable, repeatable and feature-rich display calibration and profiling solution. This monitor also touts an ultra-wide color gamut, allowing you to view photographs and graphics in optimum color.

38. Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon DX-Format Digital SLR Cameras

Wouldn’t our world be much easier if we didn’t have to bother swapping lenses ever 50mm or so in the zoom range, and just have one lens that does it all? Nikon came out with their answer to that problem with their 18-200 f/3.25-5.6G AF-S ED a few years ago. They’ve now come out with their latest version. I was sceptical at first, until I started seeing other photographers work with this lens the past few years, and I’ve now come impressed. If you’re a Nikon shooter with a DX type camera (APS-C sized sensor), then you might want to consider this as an upgrade to your kit lens. Nothing against the kit lenses Nikon offers, they have been suprisingly excellent in their own right.

When using the lens, the VR is going to help a great deal for casual shooting.  VR is a must-have for all-in-one lenses, and our manufacturers are starting to figure that out now. Out in the field, I really like the build quality of the lens, and would have no problem keeping it on my camera for most of my everyday shooting. This lens has been a good kept secret by some Nikon shooters.

39.  Tamrac 3385 Aero Speed Pack 85 Dual Access Photo/Laptop Backpack

If you do some traveling with photography in mind, especially through airports, you know the problems of schlepping both camera equipment and our ever-precious laptops. In the past few years, we’ve been blessed with a few camera backpacks that include space for a laptop. I’ve had a Lowepro for a few years, but only my 14″ laptop would fit.  Not good for my new 17″ laptop. I’m also very anal about being able to keep my camera gear and laptop with me at all times, on the plane and on the ground.

Shopping around for a bigger backpack where I can fit a DSLR, 70-200 lens, spare body and a few other lenses, plus my 17″ laptop has been a chore, until I found the Tamrac 3385. I’d carry that on fully packed anytime, my whole life is in that bag!  Let the airlines loose my cloths and toothbrush, I’m hanging on to my gear.

If you’re not traveling, there are better backpacks dedicated toward carrying gear without a backpack, but if you’re jumping on a plane, you want your prize possessions with you at all times. Don’t check in your laptop or camera gear, ever!

40.  Epson P-7000 160GB Multimedia Storage Drive, Photo Viewer and Audio-Video Player w/ 4-Inch LCD

Always have drooled over the Epson photo viewers since they came out. How convenient it would be while traveling, not having to bring a laptop along to back up your memory cards while abroad.  Epson’s great 4″ screen, the ability to load up SD or Compact Flash cards while on the go, all in a small package. Today, netbooks are carrying 160GB hard drives, so its becoming a question of economics of having one of these. Still, its a nice gadget to have in your camera bag to backup your flash cards and view your images.

Manufacture Description:

Back up, store and view your images in vibrant color and detail, PC–free. An essential tool for on–the–go photographers, the Epson P–7000 features superior image quality and a high-capacity 160GB hard drive. The perfect partner to your digital SLR camera, this innovative device makes it easier than ever to backup and view thousands of RAW and JPEG images on the spot. Use the large, 4–inch LCD to verify you have the shots you need while still on location. The P–7000 is the ideal alternative to lugging your laptop to the shoot.

• Zoom in to confirm focus and fine detail with the large, 4-inch Epson Photo Fine Premia LCD (displays over 16.7 million colors)
• Store thousands of RAW and JPEG images on high-capacity, 160GB hard drive
• Back up images on the spot with built-in memory card slots (CompactFlash® and Secure Digital support)
• Quickly transfer files from one device to another with Hi-Speed USB 2.0
• Present images with amazing color accuracy with 94% Adobe RGB color space support