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The 5 Best Ideas for Super Bowl Food & the Kitchenware to Help | Lifestyle by Focus

By
Keith Rodman
-
The 5 Best Ideas for Super Bowl Food & Kitchenware

Is a Super Bowl party really a party without the four big “F”s: (American) football, friends, family, and everyone’s favorite – food? If this year is your time to host a Super Bowl party, you want to ensure you have enough seats, a good home entertainment setup, and, most importantly, delicious dishes to serve. This post contains five traditionally good ideas for Super Bowl food you can serve this year.

Also included are great recommended items to help you quickly prepare these foods, such as grilling kits, cookware, and kitchen utensils. From reliable grills to handcrafted bowls and even portable pizza ovens, this game plan is guaranteed to help you score in the cuisine department. Without further ado, here are five excellent and classic ideas for Super Bowl food for your watch party.

1) Make Mouthwatering Homemade Pizza

Homemade Pizza - food ideas for super bowl party - portable pizza oven
Photo courtesy of Kelvin T

Pizza, it’s a classic party favorite and a crowd-pleaser for most people, and you can always spice it up with a variety of toppings. However, this year, don’t be cheesy and order delivery like everyone else; put a spin on it and craft your very own unique selection of fresh pizza ingredients. If you want to make it a more memorable Super Bowl party, create something that your guest will continue to rave about, some good ole’ homemade pizza. It may take a little more effort, but it’ll be well worth it when your guests ask, “so, where’d you get this amazing-tasting pizza from?”

Recommended Items:

Pizzacraft PizzaQue Portable Pizza Oven

Pizzacraft PizzaQue Portable Pizza Oven - ideas for super bowl food

The PizzaQue portable pizza oven is a top-notch cooking machine that’ll help give your pizza the perfect texture and taste the professionals acquire. The PizzaQue takes 15 minutes to heat up and can cook a pizza in just 6 minutes. After you finish cooking each pie, you won’t need to reheat the oven again, allowing you to keep churning out those sweet slices of yumminess. Plus, even after the parties end, you’ll find it has many more uses, such as bringing it to tailgates, backyard parties, campsites, and more.

Pizzacraft Acacia Purpose Wood Pizza Peel and Charcuterie Board

Pizzacraft Acacia Purpose Wood Pizza Peel and Charcuterie Board

Pizzacraft Acacia Purpose Wood Pizza Peel is great for transferring pizzas safely to and from a hot stone.

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2) BBQ & Grill – a Fan Favorite

Super Bowl ideas for food - BBQ and Grilling
Photo courtesy of Markus Spiske

BBQ and grill are always a great tradition and well-accepted food ideas for Super Bowl parties. They get the ball rolling and the smiles going; they also offer flexible food options: meats, seafood, vegetables, and fruits to satisfy everyone’s palate at the party, whether vegetarian or a meat-lover. That smokey and char-grilled taste gives off great tailgate vibes and adds a delicious flavor to each bite.

If you want to save money and be cost-efficient, BBQ and grilled foods are the way to go. Buying meats and veggies in bulk and grilling them is a much cheaper option than ordering catered food and pre-made cuisines (especially for a large group of people).

Recommended Items:

Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill 

BBQ and Grill ideas for Super Bowl - Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill - LP Gas (Black)
Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill – LP Gas (Black)

The Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane grill is another exceptional tool for making food fast and effective. It has an electronic ignition so you can grill quickly for a large number of people, and its aluminum body makes cleaning even more manageable. It comes with a built-in lid thermometer, and the bundle also includes a portable cart, adaptor hose, and grill cover.

 

Charcoal Companion CC5153 3-in-1 Burger Press 

Charcoal Companion CC5153 3-in-1 Burger Press
Charcoal Companion CC5153 3-in-1 Burger Press

A Charcoal companion indeed. With this 3-in-1 burgers press, you can craft juicy burgers and delightful bite-sized sliders. You’ll be able to determine the size of the meat; best of all, you can stuff the patties and surprise your guest with a delicious burst of flavor inside.

 

 

 

Kuechenprofi BBQ Grill / Serving Pan with Wooden Board 

Kuechenprofi BBQ Grill / Serving Pan with Wooden Board
Kuechenprofi BBQ Grill / Serving Pan with Wooden Board

If you want to step your game up for the watch party (or any occasion), the Kuechenprofi BBQ Grill is an excellent and fancy serving set. You can use the wooden board and pan to serve small dishes just like your favorite restaurants, straight from the grill to the dinner table while staying warm on the pan. You can also serve it right from the oven, leaving you with a nice food presentation.

McCormick Grill Mates Barbecue Tongs 

McCormick Grill Mates Barbecue Tools MC8005 Locking BBQ Tongs with Softgrip Handle
McCormick Grill Mates Barbecue Tools MC8005 Locking BBQ Tongs with Softgrip Handle

McCormick Grill Mates Barbecue Tools MC8005 Locking BBQ Tongs have a soft grip for smooth handling and a firm grasp to flip foods easily.

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3) Raise the Bar with a Cocktail Bar (or Mocktail)

What’s all the buzz about cocktail bars? Creating a drinking station can be an excellent way to throw in a more interactive component to the party. It allows guests to mingle while making their favorite drink and can work as a great icebreaker as well. There might even be a friend or two who really wants to show off those bartending skills and help accommodate guests by making them a courteous cocktail. Moreover, having a cocktail bar is another way to keep a low budget by purchasing multiple inexpensive drinks instead of a complete fancy bar set.

Recommended Items:

Island Bamboo Pakka Wood Muddler (Rainbow), Cutting Board, Toast Tongs, and Measuring Spoon Bundle

Island Bamboo Pakka Wood Muddler (Rainbow), Cutting Board, Toast Tongs, and Measuring Spoon Bundle
Island Bamboo Pakka Wood Muddler (Rainbow), Cutting Board, Toast Tongs, and Measuring Spoon Bundle

This colorful cocktail-making set comes packed with everything you need to create your ideal drinking station. The Rainbow Bar cutting board is made of durable food-safe birch wood, appeasing anyone who desires a bit of citrus aesthetic to their drink. Make a perfectly mashed-up mojito with the Pakka wood muddler, or get the proper measurements with the double measuring spoon.

 

 

Riedel O Cabernet Glasses & Riedel Ouverture Beer Glass

Riedel O Cabernet Glasses
Riedel O Cabernet Glasses

If you’re hosting a smaller, more intimate Super Bowl party with just a few guests, you can get fancy with some fine-looking Riedel glasses for beer and wine instead of plastic or paper cups.

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4) Craft a Classic Charcuterie Board

Ideas for Super Bowl Food - Charcuterie Board
Photo courtesy of Tye Doring

Charcuteries have become so popular within the last few years. Some people are even going as far as throwing charcuterie board parties, a trend where each participant brings their own uniquely designed board to display and later indulge in. These boards have always been a reliable and tasty cuisine for all styles of parties, from high-end formal events to casual watch parties like the Super Bowl.

A charcuterie board is low maintenance and doesn’t require an absorbent amount of time or work to put together. However, if you love setting up spectacular food presentations, you can always customize each board with extravagant patterns of meat and cheese and ornately stacked crackers. It’s another wallet saver, as you only need a board and a small selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers to put one together. Plus, it serves as a great appetizer or tiny bites that can be nibbled on throughout the evening.

Recommended Items:   

Pizzacraft Acacia Purpose Wood Pizza Peel and Charcuterie Board

Pizzacraft Acacia Purpose Wood Pizza Peel and Charcuterie Board
Pizzacraft Acacia Purpose Wood Pizza Peel and Charcuterie Board

The Pizzacraft Acacia Charcuterie Board is great for all occasions.

 

 

 

 

 

J.K. Adams Lazy Susan 12-Inch Round Slate Charcuterie Board 

J.K. Adams Lazy Susan 12-Inch Round Slate Charcuterie Board - The Lady's Guide to Eating Cheese
J.K. Adams Lazy Susan 12-Inch Round Slate Charcuterie Board – The Lady’s Guide to Eating Cheese

J.K. Adams Lazy Susan 12-Inch Round Slate Charcuterie Board is a unique way to build a cheese plate for a small group of people.

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5) Create a Salad Bar

Super Bowl Cuisine Options - Creating a salad bar or salad station
Photo courtesy of Taylor Kiser

Don’t forget your greens. Not everyone will be a huge fan of barbecued meat or pizza, so a salad station is a superb idea for “a dressing” this issue. Fruits, onions, cucumbers, nuts, carrots, and tomatoes are just a few options that you can use to provide an excellent variety to your salad bar. Like charcuterie boards, salads are effortless to put together. And if you can’t decide on what salad to create, you can simply put the lettuce, kale, or other greens in a bowl next to the dressings and toppings and let your guest make their dream salad. It’s inexpensive and compliments the other food nicely while adding a healthier option for your guest.

Recommended Items:

Berard Handcrafted Bowls (6-Pack) & Handcrafted Scoop

Berard Handcrafted Bowls (6-Pack) with 7-Inch Handcrafted Scoop (Olivewood)
Berard Handcrafted Bowls (6-Pack) with 7-Inch Handcrafted Scoop (Olivewood)

Berad Bowls are handcrafted in France from fine olive wood and add a lovely aesthetic to your salad. They range from 1-8/9 to 6-2/3 inches (in diameter), and with the bundle, you can get a set of six Berard Handcrafted bowls and a 7-inch scoop. They’re also great for popcorn and peanuts, and other small snacks you may want to provide.

 

 

Berard Provencal Salad Serving Set

Berard Provencal Salad Serving Set
Berard Provencal Salad Serving Set

The Berard Provencal, Salad Serving Set, consists of a spoon and a 3-pronged fork to blend the delicious flavors into a lip-smacking dish.

 

 

 

 

Lipper International Large Walnut Finish Wavy Rim Bowl with Salad Hands

Lipper International Large Walnut Finish Wavy Rim Bowl with Salad Hands Bundle with Bowls (Set of 4)
Lipper International Large Walnut Finish Wavy Rim Bowl with Salad Hands Bundle with Bowls

Lipper International has designed the Walnut Finish Small Wavy Rim Bowl to serve your salads in style.

 

 

 

 

What will make for this years Super Bowl? 

Fujifilm X-T4 vs X-T5 | Worth the Upgrade?

By
Keith Rodman
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Fujifilm X-T4 vs X-T5 camera comparison - camera specs

Last year we saw the release of the new Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera, only to be awed by its note-worthy photography and video capabilities. However, its predecessor, the X-T4, still remains a fan favorite for plenty of photographers and videographers. If you’re trying to decide which Fujifilm X series camera is right for you, you’ve come to the right place. Today we will compare Fujifilm’s X-T4 vs. X-T5 and see which camera is right for you.

What were our first impressions of the Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera? Watch this video and find out. 

Table of Contents

Specs X-T4X-T5
Price$1,549.95$1,699.99
Price (with lens bundles)$2,049.95 (XF 16-80mm f/4 lens)$2,099.00 (XF18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS lens)
Weight 557g607g
Dimensions 134.6 x 92.8 x 63.8mm129.5 x 91 x 63.8mm
Pixels26MP40MP
SensorX-Trans CMOS 4BSI X-TRANS CMOS 5
Sensor size APS-CAPS-C
Processor X-Processor 4X-Processor 5
Maximum burst rate15fps (M) 21fps (E)15fps (M) 13fps (E)
Max IBIS6.5EV7EV
Max video rec4K/60p6.2K/30p (1.23x crop), 4K/60
Battery500 / 500580 / 590
Storage 2x SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-II2x SD/SDHC/SDXV UHS-II

Build

Regarding the Fujifilm X-T4 and X-T5 build, both cameras share some similarities in design, but there are a few key differences to consider. Both cameras have a vintage, and classic SLR look, but the X-T5 (557g, 129.5mm x 91mm x 63.8mm) is a smidge smaller and about 50g lighter than the X-T4 (607g, 134.6mm x 92mm x 63.8mm). Regarding the handheld look and feel, the X-T5 is designed with a more pronounced finger-shaped groove and relaxed slope to the viewfinder hump, giving it a slighter ergonomic design than the X-T4. Other than this their physical features are virtually the same.

Both cameras have dedicated dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, and a pair of command dials that can be configured to match existing camera layouts. They both maintain a micro HDMI port for video output as well. 

X-T4 vs X-T5 | camera comparison

Viewfinder & LCD Screen

The X-T5 uses the same 0.5-inch 3.69 million dots OLED color viewfinder as the X-T4 but has the added benefit of higher magnification optics, giving it an impressive 0.8x magnification. As for the LCD monitors, the X-T4 comes with a 3.0-inch LCD screen maintaining a resolution of 1.62 million pixels. Whereas the X-T5 has been slightly improved with a higher resolution of 1.84 million pixels.

Both screens can be adjusted to allow for the camera to be held at unique angles for obscure angle shots. However, the X-T5 mimics the X-T3’s three-way tilt design, which unfortunately eliminates the ability to perform 180-degree screen rotations for self-filming and vlogging. This is unlike the X-T4’s more versatile vari-angle monitor, suggesting that the X-T5 is geared more towards photographers than videographers.

X-T4 vs X-T5 Fujifilm camera review

Battery (Vertical Battery Grip)

Both cameras use the same NP-W235 batteries. For the X-T5 this provides about 590 shots per charge using the viewfinder or 580 shots using the rear screen. As for the X-T4, this offers a slightly lower rating of around 500 shots per charge.

However, unlike the X-T4, Fujifilm has chosen to get rid of the vertical battery grip feature for the X-T5 by eliminating the contacts on the bottom of the camera. Nevertheless, if the camera body alone feels too small to hold comfortably, you can purchase the optional MHG-XT5 metal hand grip as an alternative.

Image Sensor & Processor

One of the biggest changes in the X-T5 is the new BSI X-Trans CMOS sensor. This sensor has been completely redesigned from previous models and, as a result, gives the X-T5 a higher resolution at a whopping 40.2MP compared to the X-T4’s 26.1MP. This puts the newer camera’s sensor on par with the X-H2. Additionally, the X-T5 is equipped with the X-Processor 5, which is twice as fast as the one found X-T4. The new sensor on the X-T5 allows it to take in more light and produce better image quality. This is thanks to the improved pixel structure of the X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor.

Fujifilm X-T4 vs X-T5 camera comparison

Image Stabilization

Regarding image stabilization, the Fujifilm X-T4 and X-T5 feature 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) to help minimize camera shake. For stills, The X-T4 offers up to 6.5 stops of exposure compensation. On the contrary, the X-T5 has received a modest upgrade offering a maximum of 7 stops, putting it on par once again with the X-H2 and X-H2S for the best exposure compensation provided by any current Fujifilm cameras.

When it comes to image stabilization, the most significant difference between the two cameras is the Pixel Shift Multishot feature. Out of the two cameras, only the X–T5 contains this feature which allows the camera’s IBIS system to precisely shift the sensor, recording 20 separate frames with one press of the shutter release. The resulting files are combined using Pixel Shift Combiner software to quadruple the camera’s resolution and produce a detail-rich 160MP file.  

Fujifilm X-T4 mirrorless camera

AF Functions

Fujifilm has enhanced the X-T5’s autofocus system over its predecessor thanks to the integration of Deep Learning technology. The X-T4 and X-T5 use a hybrid autofocus system, which combines phase and contrast detection, but the X-T5 goes a step further by incorporating advanced algorithms. These algorithms help detect moving subjects such as cars, motorcycles, trains, birds, and airplanes. The X-T4 is only able to detect human faces and eyes. On top of this, the X-T5 has more phase detection autofocus points (3.3 million) compared to the X-T4 (2.16 million).

Continuous Shooting

Fujifilm’s X-T5 camera offers a maximum shooting speed of 20fps when using the electronic shutter, which also comes with a 1.29x crop applied. Interestingly, the X-T4 can shoot at 20fps with no crop when using the electronic shutter. But, if you increase the speed to 30fps, this will apply a 1.25x crop.

Both cameras feature the same 15fps continuous shooting speed when using the mechanical shutter. Pretty impressive considering the X-T5’s new image processor and increased resolution.

Fujifilm X-T5 tilt screen

Video

Regarding video improvements, there are a handful of upgrades that separate the capabilities between Fujifilm’s older and newer models. Yes, both cameras support DCI 4K/60p recording. However, X-T4 does so with a 1.17x crop factor. The X-T5 camera also boasts a high-quality recording rate of 6.2K/30p and can record 10-bit 4:2:2 internally, as opposed to the X-T4. Although, it is also essential to point out that X-T5 does have a 1.23x crop when recording in 6.2K/30p.

Both cameras can capture 1080/240p slow-motion footage and have HLG and F-Log. But in addition to this, the X-T5 also offers the new F-Log 2 profile with up to 14+ stops of dynamic range. Furthermore, you can connect the X-T5 with a compatible HDMI recording device from Atomos or Blackmagic Design to output 12-bit RAW video and record it as Apple ProRes RAW or Blackmagic RAW. Lastly, the X-T5 also has a digital zoom function that can deliver up to 2x zoom with minimal loss in resolution when recording video in 4K.

Verdict

Both the Fujifilm X-T4 and X-T5 are excellent cameras that share many similarities in design and functionality, but there are still key differences to consider. The X-T5 is slightly smaller and lighter, with a more ergonomic design (although some photographers prefer bulkier cameras). The X-T5 also features a higher resolution viewfinder and LCD screen and a new BSI X-Trans CMOS sensor with faster processing.

Despite both cameras providing impressive quality, speed, and stabilization. The X-T5 seems geared more toward photographers that desire those extra top-notch image quality and stabilization features. In contrast, the X-T4 can be considered slightly more versatile for vloggers and videographers with its vari-angle screen, not to mention its vertical battery grip capabilities. Ultimately, they’re both great cameras, and whether you choose Fujifilm’s X-T4 or X-T5 will depend on your specific content creation needs, including what you value most in a camera.

Which Fujifilm X series camera do you prefer? 

Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens | Review

By
Keith Rodman
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Simga 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports review (video included)

Zoom into the new and masterfully designed Sigma 60-600mm F/4.5-6.3 DG DN Sports lens. This ultra-telephoto zoom lens is Sigma’s second Sports series lens for mirrorless cameras and the first 10x zoom lens for mirrorless cameras. Sporting some impressive enhancements from the previous DSLR version, this versatile lens has revolutionary image quality at all ranges, reliable stabilization, and is great for a variety of shooting practices.

This review will focus on the build and optical technology that make it great for a wide range of photography, from sport, event, and wildlife photography to even portrait, landscape, street photography, and more.

Don’t feel like reading. Check out this great video of our experts putting this lens to the test, capturing fantastic photos of New York and animals at the zoo (wildlife and street photography). 

Build 

Sigma’s 60mm-600mm DG DN Sports lens weighs around 5.5 pounds (2.5kg) and pushes the boundaries of innovation with its multi-material structure. This unique design combines materials such as magnesium, CFRP (Carbon-Fiber Reinforced Polymers), and TSC  (Thermally Stable Composite) optimized for durability.

The CFRP material enhances the overall strength of the lens while keeping the weight to a minimum. While the thermally stable composite allows the lens to maintain its high manufacturing quality standards even in extreme temperatures. The combination of these materials results in a lightweight and robust lens (significantly lighter than the previous model). 

Key Features:  

  • Lighter than previous model lens 5 pounds(2.5kg)
  • Dust and splash-resistant interior 
  • Durable and robust 

Optical Performance & Zoom Features 

This ultra-telephoto lens is an advanced optic for photographers seeking to capture fascinating and dynamic moments. One of its standout features is its stable, high-quality performance throughout the entire zoom range.

To achieve this, Sigma uses the latest optical design and various high-quality materials, including FLD and SLD glass elements, to minimize chromatic aberrations that often occur in the ultra-telephoto range. This improvement and attention to detail allow the lens to deliver exceptionally sharp image quality no matter what focal length you choose.

And when Sigma says this ultra-telephoto lens offers a wide range of versatility, they mean it. With a minimum focusing distance of 45cm at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.4 at the 200mm focal length, there’s no denying its telephoto macro lens capabilities. Creatives can capture intricate details and textures up close and personal on their subjects.

Key Features: 

  • Stable, high-quality performance throughout the entire zoom range
  • Features SLD and FLD glass elements to minimize chromatic aberrations
  • Capable of capturing intricate details and textures up close
  • Versatile: 45cm minimum focus distance, telephoto macro capability at 1:2.4 magnification ratio
  • Can be used as a telephoto macro lens
Sigma 60-600mm F/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens review
Photo courtesy of Sigma

AF Features 

This ultra-telephoto lens features an all-new linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) for unparalleled speed and precise AF performance. Moreover, the high-output linear motor and advanced electronic control allow for quiet operation. Ideal for capturing fast-paced sports moments and subjects in motion, from motor vehicles to birds in flight. 

In addition, it’ll be much easier for photographers to catch more advanced shots on quickly moving subjects with its high focus-following performance, designed for high-octane moments and “short window” capture opportunities. It provides an extra layer of comfort and improves capturing potential for unique scenarios like fast-paced sports events, wildlife photography, or split second photos. 

Key Features: 

  • Newly developed linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)
  • Fast, precise and quiet AF
  • High focus-following performance ensures that decisive moments are not missed

Image Stabilization & Zoom Performance 

The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens features a brand new advanced optical stabilization algorithm – OS2. This algorithm provides a high level of compensation, with up to seven stops of impressive image stabilization at the wide end and six stops at the telephoto end, allowing for powerful and dynamic images with a sense of motion. The versatile ultra-telephoto lens comes with two different OS modes. One is geared for general shooting practices, while the other is tailored for fast panning shots.

How does OS mode two work? Mode 2 utilizes an acceleration sensor and a specialized algorithm (Intelligent OS) to stabilize the image even when the camera is moved vertically or diagonally. Regardless of the lens’s orientation, this feature ensures the subject’s movement is captured while maintaining the panning effect in dynamic situations like sports photography.

Key Features:

  • OS2, advanced optical stabilizer algorithm
  • Image stabilization up to 7 stops – wide, six stops – zoomed
  • Two OS modes available: general shooting and fast panning shots
  • Captures fast-moving subjects effectively, regardless of lens orientation.

Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports

Verdict 

The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens is an excellent choice for photographers who capture dynamic and captivating moments. Its stable and high-quality performance throughout the entire zoom range and its lightweight and robust design make it a versatile option for a wide range of photography scenarios. 

Add in features like the all-new linear motor HLA, high-speed and precise AF, exceptional image stabilization, and two different OS modes, and you have a lens of a lifetime. If you are into sports photography and wildlife or are constantly shooting subjects in motion, we highly recommend this new Sigma lens.

Easy Tips & Best Settings for Night Photography | Beginner’s Guide

By
Keith Rodman
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Night photo shooting samples
ISO 150 - F/5.6 - Shutter Speed 4 sec

Using the right settings for night photography can turn a dull and dark photo into a vibrant masterpiece that comes to life. All it takes is ideal lighting, gear, and a few easy techniques to produce creative and fun images. If you enjoy capturing images at night or want to expand your photo creativity and quality, this post will help be your guide in the dark. We’ll shine a light on the best settings for night photography, good tips to follow, and equipment to take your after-dark images to the next level. As the sun sets on another day, it’s time to grab your camera and embrace the beauty of all the marvelous ideas you’ll have for your next night’s photo shoot.  

Night photography ideas, tips, and samples
Table of Contents

Camera Settings for Night Photography

Long Exposure Shots

Want to add some creative flair to your nighttime photo shoots? Try longer exposures. This simple technique involves using a slow shutter speed to intentionally lengthen the amount of time that the camera’s sensor is exposed to light. By using a long exposure time, not only does your camera capture more light, but it can also capture the movement and flow of light sources in beautifully intricate ways. This is how you create motion-inspired light streaks or star trail effects. This is especially effective for photographing moving traffic or astrophotography. 

You can achieve ideal long exposure results by using a tripod and a camera with manual exposure settings and setting the shutter speed to a slow value, such as around 10 to 30 seconds. You can experiment with exposure times and see what different creative captures you construct. 

Key points:

  • Slowdown shutter speed for long exposure (around 10 seconds or hire)
  • Long exposures brightens photos by allowing shutters to take in more light.
  • You can create light trails using long exposure technique
  • A tripod and manual exposure settings will help image quality
Night photo shooting - car traffic light trails
Photo courtesy of Jake Blucker

Aperture

Your aperture is another significant setting for night photography and will determine how much light your lens lets in. A low aperture allows more light into the camera, resulting in brighter and more detailed images. Ideal aperture settings for night photography to have will be somewhere around 2.8 or lower; however, even if you aren’t capable of going that low, the right angel and a decent source of light can make up for this. A low aperture creates a shallow depth of field, which can help to isolate your subject and introduces a sense of depth within your picture. However, a low aperture can also result in a narrower focus area, so it’s important to focus carefully to ensure your subject is in sharp focus. 

Key Points:

  • Low aperture (around f/2.8) lets more light into the camera and creates a shallow depth of field. 
  • To achieve this, set the aperture to a low number on your camera’s settings. 

Shooting in RAW

Shooting in RAW format can give you more flexibility when editing your nighttime photos, as it captures a greater range of tonal detail. When you shoot in JPEG, the camera processes the image and discards some of the data, resulting in a smaller file size. This can make it more difficult to recover lost detail when editing the photo, especially in low-light conditions. Overall, it gives photographers more control over the final look of their images, adding flexibility to editing. 

Key points:

  • RAW captures more detail
  • Can benefit you during post production photo editing

High Dynamic Range (HDR)

HDR is another good night photography technique involving taking multiple exposures of a scene at different exposures and combining them into a single image. This can be useful for capturing a wide range of tones in a setting with a high contrast between light and dark areas, such as a cityscape at night.  

To create an HDR image, you will need to take multiple exposures of the same scene at different exposures, either by using a camera that has an HDR mode or by taking the exposures manually. You can then use special software to combine the exposures into a single image, adjusting the exposure and other settings to achieve the desired result. 

Key points:

  • It helps to bracket your shots (essentially capturing same image over and over)
  • Can combine photos into a single image for better results

Below is a gallery of beautiful NYC night photography samples our team was able to capture, including camera setting like ISO, F-stop, and shutter speed. We used a Sony a7R IV camera with a Sony 70-200 2.8 GM lens for the close up cityscape, a 14mm GM lens for the wide bridge shots, and a Sony 35mm 1.4 GM for the pics of Little Italy restaurant signs.

Night photography ideas, tips, and samples - night sky
Photo courtesy of Joshua Woroniecki

ISO Settings

You may think that shooting in low light or at night requires cranking up the ISO for a more detailed image; however this will only increase the chances of you producing even blurrier low-quality photos. Instead, the focus should be to have a low ISO, as it reduces noise in the photo, resulting in cleaner and sharper pictures. However, as you might suspect, a low ISO can also result in darker images, especially in this case. Hence, balancing the ISO with the aperture and shutter speed settings is essential to achieve your desired exposure. 

Key points:

  • Low ISO reduces noise and results in cleaner and sharper images. 
  • To achieve this, set the ISO to a low value on your camera’s settings. 
  • Balance the ISO with the aperture and shutter speed settings to achieve the desired exposure. 

Manual Focus Settings

It’s obviously essential to pay attention to focus when taking photos, but at night this becomes even more crucial. The autofocus (AF) system in your camera uses contrast to determine which parts of the scene are in focus, and in low-light conditions, there may be less contrast for the AF system to work with. This can make it harder for the camera to focus accurately, resulting in blurry or out-of-focus photos. 

To ensure that your photos are in focus, it’s a good idea to do two things – set the focus camera setting for night photography to manual and check the image before taking each shot. Use the viewfinder or the LCD screen to ensure your focus is good. You use manual mode to give yourself more control over the focus points. Since the camera may struggle to find clear focus points, you’re better off doing it yourself. Artistically, this can also be helpful for focusing on specific elements in the scene, such as a particular light source or texture. 

Key points:

  • Manual focus allows for more control over the focus point and can result in sharper images. 
  • Use the camera’s focus peaking or magnification features to help achieve accurate focus in low light situations. 

Experiment with White Balance

White balance refers to the process of adjusting the color temperatures in your frame to accurately represent the colors of the light source, making it so white colored objects actual appear white. Different light sources, such as streetlights or headlights, can give off different color temperatures which will affect the scene you want to shoot.

You can use the “tungsten” or “incandescent” white balance presets for warm lighting conditions similar in color to many artificial light sources at night. They can help to neutralize any yellow or orange color casts that may be present in your images. If your camera doesn’t have these presets or if you want more control over your white balance, you can adjust it manually. One way to do this is to set the white balance to “daylight” or “cloudy” and then adjust the color temperature manually using the Kelvin scale (shown below). It helps to experiment with different color temperature values until you find one that looks natural or reflects the vibe you want to create.

Additionally, you may want to avoid using the auto white balance setting as it can sometimes produce inaccurate color temperatures in low-light environments. Lastly, as a bonus – it helps to know that Shooting in RAW format allows you to adjust the white balance during post-production, giving you more flexibility and control over the finished image.

Key points:

White balance color temperature guide for star photography
Color Temperature Guide Courtesy of Exposure Guide

Here are a few stunning picture samples complimentary of our photography experts. We’ve also included their settings for night photography used to create each image.

Night photo shooting samples
ISO 50 – F/5.6 – Shutter Speed 4sec
Night photography samples
ISO 1250 – F/5.6 – Shutter Speed 1/80 sec
Night photography samples
ISO 50 – F/8 – Shutter Speed 15 sec
Night photo shooting samples
ISO 150 – F/5.6 – Shutter Speed 4 sec
Photo samples and settings for night photography

Easy Night Photography Ideas  

Light Painting

An excellent method to expand your artistic canvas is light painting. This creative technique involves using a long exposure shot to capture the movement trail of a flashlight or other light source. The photograph will then look as if the light was “painted” or “drawn” into your scene because of the traces of lines the light source leaves behind.

It’s a fun concept that requires you (or a volunteer) to move the light around during a long exposure shot to essentially create an after-image effect around your subject or scene. This simple but well-renowned night photography technique is excellent for producing abstract patterns and vibrantly brings your photos to life. 

Key points:

  • Move a light source during a long exposure shot to drag out light streaks in your photo

Below is a short light painting reel our team worked on. It showcases the wonderful creative potential you have with this technique.

Star Trails & Light Trails

As previously mentioned, star and light trails are created by taking a series of long exposures and combining them into a single image. This can create illuminating photos with a mix of streaks that show the night sky, traffic, and cityscapes in motion. You’ll need a camera with manual exposure settings, a tripod, and a slow shutter speed to create lavish light trails. 

Key points:

  • Similar to ‘light painting’ but instead using the stars or traffic as a light source during long exposure shot

Capture the Beauty of the Night Sky

There’s something magical about the night sky. Whether you’re out in the countryside, away from city lights, or simply enjoying the view from your backyard, the stars, and the Milky Way offer a stunning spectacle that can take your breath away.  

Using the tips this post covers, a wide-angle lens to capture a larger portion of the sky, and a long exposure, you create the opportunity to capture the movement of the stars as they travel across the sky.  

Key points:

Night photography photo sample - night sky
Photo courtesy of Juskteez

Document the City at Night

Nighttime cityscapes can be beautiful and atmospheric and can be captured using all these techniques to enhance the aesthetic of traffic lights, store signs, and skylines. Consider including iconic landmarks or other exciting features in your compositions. So next time you are out in the city after dark, don’t forget to bring your camera for some excellent night photo shooting opportunities. 

Key points:

  • Use the dynamic aesthetic of the city to spark more creative opportunities

Experiment With Abstract Compositions

Nighttime photography can be a great opportunity to experiment with abstract and creative compositions. Try using contrasting light sources and shadows to create unique and artistic images. Since the lighting is often low and there may be a lack of detail, you can play with shadows and silhouettes to play tricks on the human eye and create striking images.

One way to create an abstract composition is to focus on a specific aspect of a scene, such as a single light source or a distinguished pattern in the environment. Another technique you can try is to play with perspective. Shooting from a low angle or a high angle can change the way a scene looks and feels, and can help you create a more unique and interesting image.

Key points:

  • Focus in on specific aspects of your scene to add an intricate feel to your photo
  • Experiment with shadows and silhouettes
  • Draw attention to obscure light sources and patterns
Night photography ideas, tips, and techniques. Night photo sample

Night Photography Settings & Equipment

Use a Tripod

As discussed, long exposure is a great photography technique to help manipulate lighting and create unique light trail effects with cars or stars. However, it is crucial that you keep your camera steady during these shots; otherwise, even the slightest movements can create obnoxiously blurry photos. 

One reliable way to prevent this is by using a tripod. They help keep the camera steady and to avoid movement during the long exposure shots, resulting in sharp and focused star trails. 

Tripod recommendations for night photography:

Use a Fast Lens

A fast lens with a wide maximum aperture can help capture more light in low-light conditions. This can help to reduce the need for long exposures and high ISO values, which can introduce unwanted noise into the image. For example, Sigma’s 35mm F/1.4 DG DN Art is an excellent lens for night photography because of its wide aperture and high optical quality. See which lenses best complement your style for night photo shooting. 

Lens recommendations for night photography:

Use a Cable Release or Self-Timer

Using a cable release or setting the camera’s self-timer mode can help to reduce camera shake during long exposures. A cable release is a device that allows you to take a photo without physically pressing the shutter button on your camera. By using a cable release, you can also minimize the amount of movement caused by pressing the shutter button. 

Remote shutter recommendations: 

Panasonic LUMIX S5II vs. Sony a7 III | Camera Comparison

By
Keith Rodman
-
LUMIX S5II vs Sony a7 III

The rumors reign true; Panasonic releases the new and improved LUMIX S5II & S5IIX for pre-order (kit includes LUMIX S 20-60mm F 3.5-5.6 lens). It’s a new year full of gratifying and groundbreaking gear waiting to be announced. Fortunately, the camera world is off to a good start with the versatile Panasonic LUMIX S5 II, optimized for excellent stills and videos.

For this post, we’ll compare the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II vs. Sony a7 III, two closely competing cameras. Both models are worth considering if you’re in the market for a mirrorless camera that can deliver top-notch quality and performance. We’ll dive into the key features of each camera to help you determine which one might be the best fit for you and your unique photography and videography needs.

LUMIX S5II vs. Sony a7 III breakdown of performance and specs
LUMIX S5II vs. Sony a7 III

Key Features & Upgrades from LUMIX S5I:

  • New 24.2MP CMOS sensor with PDAF
  • New L2 technology image engine
  • New Phase Hybrid AF
  • New Active I.S. technology
  • Enhanced Dual-Native ISO
  • Up to 30 fps electronic burst shooting
  • Real-time LUT application
  • High frame rate, 10-bit 4:2:2 C4K/4K video
  • 6K30 open-gate video
  • 14+ stop V-Log/V-Gamut dynamic range
  • Upgrade option for RAW video recording output
  • Enhanced 4-channel audio
  • Dual UHS-II card slots

LUMIX S5IIX Added Features:

  • RAW video recording output upgrade
  • USB over SSD recording
  • ALL-I & ProRes recording
  • Wireless/Wired IP streaming
LUMIX S5II review
Photo courtesy of Panasonic

Camera Build

The LUMIX S5II boasts a 24.2MP 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor designed to offer high resolution, natural description, and about 2x higher-speed signal processing for high bit-rate video recording. This makes it perfect for capturing stunning, detail-rich images and videos, whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or anything in between. 

As for the Sony a7 III, it sports a 24.2MP back-illuminated 35mm full-frame Exmor R CMOS image sensor paired with a front-end LSI that effectively doubles the readout speed of the image sensor. This sensor also has a BIONZ X processing engine that boosts processing speed by approximately 1.8 times compared to the a7 II. This results in high sensitivity with low-noise performance and a wide 15-stop dynamic range, making it ideal for capturing crisp, clear images in various lighting conditions.

Viewfinder 

The LUMIX S5II has a 2.36-million dot OLED electronic viewfinder or a 3-inch 922K-dot tilt touch LCD screen, which makes it easy to compose and review your shots. The a7 III has an approximately 2359K-dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder with ZEISS T* coating, which provides high resolution and contrast, as well as excellent gradation and color reproduction. This makes it easy to see what you’re shooting in bright daylight or dimly lit environments.

Sony a7 III review and comparison
Photo courtesy of Krists Luhaers

Photography & Burst Features  

Regarding continuous shooting, both the LUMIX S5II and the Sony a7 III are fast and reliable. The LUMIX S5II is capable of full-res shooting at up to 9 fps with the mechanical shutter and up to 30 fps with the electronic shutter. Allowing photographers to capture every fleeting moment of a fast-paced sporting event or street scene in crystal-clear detail.

The Sony a7 III can capture 24.2MP images at up to 10 fps with continuous and accurate AF/AE tracking for up to 177 Standard JPEG images, 89 compressed RAW images, or 40 uncompressed RAW images. This also makes it great for capturing action-packed moments, whether you’re shooting a concert, a wedding, or just a day at the beach.

Video 

When looking at video capabilities, both the LUMIX S5II and the a7 III offer some awe-inspiring features worthy of noting.

The LUMIX S5II has a heat dispersion mechanism that allows unlimited video recording, which is perfect for capturing extended events or time-lapses. It also has a new Active I.S. system that doubles down on supporting moving shots, making smooth, stable footage easier on every step.

Additionally, the LUMIX S5II has 14+ stop V-Log/V-Gamut capture for a high dynamic range and broad colors and a REAL TIME LUT function for in-camera photo and video color grading. This makes it ideal for creating professional-quality videos with rich, vibrant colors and stunning detail.

LUMIX S5II vs Sony a7 III LUMIX S5II review
Photo courtesy of Panasonic

On the other hand, the a7 III has high-resolution full-frame 4K movies with full-pixel readout without pixel binning, which means you can capture ultra-sharp footage with minimal moiré and jagged lines. It also has advanced image processing that enables it to record full-frame 4K movies with excellent image quality in the mid-to-high ISO range, optimal for low-light video work. And with its 5-axis in-body SteadyShot image stabilization system, you can get smooth, stable handheld footage while moving around.

Autofocus Capabilities

The LUMIX S5II has improved its AF by implementing a Phase Hybrid AF system, a feature that Panasonic hasn’t previously used, but we’re excited to see. This system utilizes phase detection AF, which generates two views of the scene from slightly different perspectives and compares them to establish an understanding of distance and depth. This makes the LUMIX S5II great for capturing fast-moving action with precise autofocus, staying locked on subjects for an unwavering AF experience.

The a7 III also has a top-notch AF system with 693 focal-plane phase-detection AF points that cover approximately 93% of the image area and 425 contrast AF points. This hybrid AF system (4D FOCUS) provides fast, reliable AF that locks on and stays locked on. 

LUMIX S5II vs Sony a7 III

Verdict 

So which camera is the best fit for you? The LUMIX S5II and the a7 III are both excellent choices for photographers and videographers who want strong performance in both stills and video. The LUMIX S5II is ideal for capturing high-resolution images and videos with natural descriptions and stunning colors, and its unlimited video recording and Active I.S. system make it a great choice for videographers.

The a7 III is a top pick for photographers and videographers who need a camera that can handle fast-moving subjects and low-light situations. Its high-resolution 4K video and advanced image processing make it an excellent choice for professional-quality video work. In addition, regarding budget, both cameras rank evenly (around $1,999).

Ultimately, choosing between these two cameras comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Do you need a camera that can easily capture fast-moving action (sports, wildlife, street photography)? If so, the a7 III might be the way to go. Or are you looking for a camera that can capture stunning, detail-rich images and videos with vibrant colors (filmmaking, portrait, landscape photography)? Then LUMIX S5II might be the better camera companion.

Treat Yourself With Great Priced Gear | Photography, Audio, Computers, & Electronics

By
Keith Rodman
-
Clearance sale, end of the year deals on photo/video gear, audio gear, electronics, and computers

You’ve worked hard all year, so why not treat yourself to something special? We’re having an end-of-the-year sale; indulge in incredible savings on a wide variety of gear: photography, video, audio, electronics, computers, and more. We’re talking gear up to 60% off from now into the beginning of the new year (most deals end 01/16/2023, view products to be sure). This list contains some popular products to help you start the new year right with amazing discounts.

Focus Camera's clearance sale for end of the year (photo/video gear, audio gear, computers, and electronics)

Audio Gear (Speakers, Headphones, Turntables)

Triangle Borea BR09 Hi-Fi Floor Standing Single Speaker

Triangle Borea BR09 Hi-Fi Floor Standing Single Speaker 

Clearance price: $399.95 (55% OFF)

Looking for a speaker that’ll bring the party to life? The Triangle Borea BR09 Hi-Fi Floor Standing Single speaker has a 3-way design and a frequency range of 35 Hz to 22 kHz, so you can be sure it’ll deliver crystal clear sound across the entire spectrum. Its sizeable bass-reflex enclosure allows it to be heard and felt throughout large rooms, creating an immersive listening experience. Whether you’re an audiophile or love to jam, the Triangle Borea BR09 has you covered.

Triangle Active Series Turntable with Ortofon Cartridge

Triangle Active Series Turntable with Ortofon Cartridge 

Clearance price: $199.95 (65% OFF)

If you appreciate vintage gear and want a high-quality turntable, the Triangle Active Series Turntable with Ortofon Cartridge is worth checking out. This belt-driven beauty boasts an Ortofon cartridge mounted on a tonearm that will track your records with precision and minimal wear. Plus, with a built-in phono stage and plenty of connectivity options, it’s easy to hook up to your favorite audio system. This turntable is sure to impress with its excellent sound quality and performance.

Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds 

Clearance price: $99.99 (30% OFF)

Beats Studio Buds are exceptional, high-quality, wireless earbuds with excellent noise-canceling capabilities. They have a sleek, compact design perfect for on-the-go listening, and their advanced Bluetooth technology ensures a stable, reliable connection. If you’re like me and struggle to keep earbuds in your ear, they have a comfortable, secure fit that’s perfect for long listening sessions and working out, and their noise canceling feature is excellent for blocking out unwanted background noise when you want to immerse yourself in the music. 

Philips S7807 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

Philips S7807 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker 

Clearance price: $99.99 (50% OFF)

If you enjoy blasting tunes on the go, the Philips S7807  is a great portable Bluetooth speaker. Its compact size makes it perfect for taking it wherever you go, whether you’re heading to the beach, the park, or just hanging out at home. This speaker has a rich sound and complete audio that brings music to life. Its water-resistant’s makes it great for outside activities, rain or shine. It has a long battery life and fast charging capabilities for long-lasting reliability. 

Photography & Video Gear (Film, Filters, Lenses, Lights)

Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM ART Lens 

Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM ART Lens  

Clearance price: $659.00 (25% OFF)  for Nikon F Mount 

Clearance price: $749.00 (15% OFF) Canon EF Mount 

Clearance price:  $749.00 (15% OFF) Sigma SA-Mount 

The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens is an excellent choice for photographers who want a lens that can handle low light conditions and produce high-contrast, sharp images with subtle gradations in tone and color. It’s designed for full-frame cameras but is also compatible with APS-C sensors, making it a versatile option for various shooting situations.

The lens features a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for fast, accurate autofocusing, as well as a floating focusing system that allows for superior performance when shooting subjects up close. The lens is equipped with SLD and FLD glass elements that help correct axial and chromatic aberration, resulting in a beautiful bokeh effect.  This is great for portrait, street, and landscape photography.

Pentax DA 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 ED DC WR Lens

Pentax DA 16-85mm f3.5-5.6 ED DC WR Camera Lens 

Clearance price: $531.00 (%15 OFF)

The Pentax DA 16-85mm camera lens is a versatile and high-quality lens that is perfect for a wide range of shooting situations. It has a wide focal range of 16-85mm and a zoom ratio of approximately 5.3 times, allowing you to capture a variety of subjects and perspectives. The lens is also equipped with the PENTAX-exclusive HD coating, which improves image clarity and reduces reflections. 

This lens features weather-resistant construction with eight special seals to prevent water from entering the interior, making it a durable and reliable choice for outdoor photography. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the Pentax DA 16-85mm f3.5-5.6 ED DC WR is an excellent choice for anyone looking to expand their lens collection. It has 16 optical elements in 12 groups and features one ED element and three high-grade aspherical elements to minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations and improve color rendition.

Tiffen 28mm Circular Polarizer Filter

Tiffen 28mm Circular Polarizer Filter, clearance sale lens filter

Clearance price:  $15.99 (35% OFF) 

The Tiffen 28mm Circular Polarizer filter is an excellent choice for outdoor photographers looking to enhance their images. It helps to correct the whitish glares that can wash out color in your photos and also removes glare from non-metallic surfaces like windows and water. Whether you’re looking to produce deep, blue skies or minimize reflections, this Tiffen filter is a great choice.

Westcott Rapid Box 26″ Octa Speedlite Kit

Westcott Rapid Box 26 Octa Speedlite Kit, clearance sale, deals on light kits

Clearance price:  $169.00 (15% OFF) 

The Westcott Rapid Box 26″ Octa Speedlite kit includes everything you need for on-location photography, including the Rapid Box 26″ Octa softbox, a diffusion panel, and a light stand. It’s designed to be quick and easy to set up and accommodates all photographers, from professionals to hobbyists. The softbox is made from durable materials and features a removable front diffusion panel for versatility.

Computers & Electronics

HP Envy 17-CH 17.3-inch laptop

https://www.focuscamera.com/computers-office/hp-envy-17-intel-i7-1195g7-12gb-512gb-ssd-17-3-touch-fhd-ips-display-windows-11-laptop.html - end of the year deals, cheap laptops and electronics

Clearance price: $699.99 (25% OFF)

If you need a reliable and powerful computer, there’s never been a better time to get the HP 17-CH 17.3-inch laptop. With its large 17.3-inch display, you’ll have plenty of screen for multitasking and streaming media. The laptop’s powerful processor and ample storage make it ideal for running demanding software and storing all your essential files. On top of all that, the HP 17-CH has a sleek design that’s sure to impress. 

HP 15-DY009 Intel Core 15.6-Inch HD Touchscreen Laptop

HP 15-DY009 Intel Core 15.6-Inch HD Touchscreen Laptop for sale end of the year deals

Clearance price: $399.99 (25% OFF)

The HP 15-DY009 15.6-inch HD Touchscreen laptop is a stylish and well-performing device that is well-suited for various tasks. With its 12 GB of DDR4-3200 MHz DRAM and high-definition touchscreen display, this laptop delivers fast and smooth performance whether you’re working, streaming, or playing games. Its sleek, modern design makes it a visually appealing choice for anyone who values style and sophistication in their tech. 

Sony SL-M1 2TB USB 3.1 Gen 2 External SSD

Sony SL-M1 2TB USB 3.1 Gen 2 External SSD cheap external drive SSD  

Clearance price: $169.99 (65% OFF)

The Sony SL-M1 USB 3.1 Gen 2 External SSD is a waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof (IP67 rating) storage solution that offers lightning-fast data transfer speeds and incredible durability. With its NVMe technology and SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, you can expect read and write speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s, making it perfect for storing and accessing large files quickly. Its 2TB of storage capacity is more than enough capacity for high-resolution photos, 4K videos, and other data-rich multimedia content. 

LaCie Rugged SSD 2TB Professional USB 3.1 Type-C SSD

LaCie Rugged SSD 2TB Professional USB 3.1 Type-C SSD

Clearance price: $450.00 (%10 OFF)

The LaCie Rugged SSD 2TB SSD is a great choice for anyone needing a high-performance, rugged storage solution. It’s perfect for filmmakers and DITs looking for fast file transfers and 4K uncompressed video playback, with speeds of up to 950 MB/s. The drive is built to withstand all terrains, with extreme IP67-rated dust and water resistance and three-meter drop resistance. It’s also compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport.

 

Focus Camera Named In Newsweek’s 2023 Best Consumer Electronics Stores

By
Keith Rodman
-
Best consumer electronics store

Focus Camera has achieved another substantial award by ranking 6th in Newsweek’s annual “Best Online Consumer Electronics Shops” category for 2023. It brings us great joy to have garnered back-to-back top Newsweek rankings from 2020-2023, solidifying Focus Camera as a well-trusted and highly favored camera and electronics store. For over half a century Focus Camera has burgeoned tremendously from humble beginnings as a small family-owned camera shop in NYC to a well-renowned and award-winning electronics retailer and e-commerce website (now with a store in Lakewood, NJ also). 

Focus Camera’s mission has always been “to provide creators with the gear they need to realize their vision.” Our community comprises photographers, videographers, musicians, vocalists, podcasters, gamers, outdoor enthusiasts, and so much more. At Focus Camera, it gives us great pleasure not only to provide the best gear but supply incredible bundles, host events and classes, offer expert advice, and guide our customers every step of the way as you let your inner creative thrive.  

We want to give a special shoutout and thank our amazing – customers, staff, vendors, and anyone else instrumental in helping Focus Camera reach great heights.

How Are Websites Ranked? 

Each year Newsweek partners with Statista to evaluate a list of more than 9,500 online shops. These online shops were selected based on the number of visitors and the revenue they received in the prior year.

After narrowing down, the chosen online shops were tested based on various criteria. These criteria include site structure and usability, trust and security, and payment and delivery. In addition, a survey given to online American shoppers is also used to gather feedback. After this process, the top 1,000 online shops with the highest scores were named the “Best Online Shops 2023” and listed on Newsweek’s website.

Takeaway

When our customers are happy, we’re delighted. We enjoy providing a wide selection of high-quality electronics and gear at competitive prices. In addition, we offer convenient and secure payment options, as well as reliable and fast shipping or in-store pickup options.

 Shop with Focus Camera and see how we can assist you with your creative needs.

The Best Instant Cameras & Photo Printers | 2022 Recap

By
Keith Rodman
-
The best instant camera and photo printers of 2022

It’s almost the new year! And with the new year comes unique memories to reflect on, so what better way to savor those moments than with an instant camera or portable printer photo? To help you relish more of these warm moments moving forward, we’ve compiled a list of the best instant cameras and photo printers in 2022. Hope you enjoy and have a happy New Year’s! 

 

Instant Cameras & Portable Printer Photo
Photo courtesy of Bianchetti

What’s an Instant Camera & Instant Printer

Similar to how it sounds, an (analog) instant camera uses good ole’ film to produce mini photos almost instantly after you snap a picture. Instant photo printers are another way to quickly developed film photos, but they use the process of transferring images from a smartphone to printer (typically via Bluetooth). 

 

Instant cameras are slightly more niche for those who favor the feel of shooting photography with a traditional handheld camera. In contrast, instant photo printers are more universal because most people capture images on their phones anyway. Smartphone users can select pictures from their saved photos and make them come to life using an instant photo printer.

Why Use An Instant Camera/Portable Printer

The age of hi-tech smartphone technology and versatile digital cameras allows users to take hundreds of photos and even post them to social media in seconds, quickly and conveniently. However, film photos give you moments to physically hold on to and share with others. No matter where you rank the best instant camera or photo printer on your list, they all share a unique attribute of tangibility.  

 

(instant) camera with instant printer
Photo courtesy of Farcia

 

Instant cameras teach you to value every shot; you can’t just digitally delete an entire photo album or SD card and retake pictures. There’s something nice about witnessing a film camera print photos in front of your very eyes; a timeless moment captured in film. 

 

Like social media, analog cameras help us to connect and reflect on shared images. However, it’s face-to-face instead of over the internet. You don’t need to be a photographer to use an instant camera or photo printer. Instant cameras are great for kids, teens, adults, and all hobbyists from different walks of life—their portable, vintage-looking (which I personally like), and satisfying to use. You can use them to capture weddings, travel trips, friendly gatherings, and more. You can post them on your wall or fridge, make a photo album/collage, and even give them to friends as gifts.    

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera

the best instant camera and photo printers

The aesthetic of the Instax Mini 11 instant camera is elegant and sleek, and it comes in some loud colors like blush pink, sky blue, and lilac. If you want your instant camera to stand out with style, the Mini 11 is a perfect choice. This comes with a selfie mode and a macro feature for flawless close-up shots. 

 

Kit Includes: 

Fujifilm Instax mini 11 instant camera, Instax Mini White-Bordered Instant Print Film (10-Pack), Photo holder clip stand that holds up to 8 Instax Mini Photos.  

 

Highlights:

  • Debossed instax logo on film door
  • Transparent ring lens
  • Built-in macro mode and selfie mirror for Selfie Mode
  • Includes shutter button design accessories for customizatio

Fujifilm Instax WIDE Instant Smartphone Printer

-Fujifilm Instax Wide Instant Smartphone photo printer (Kit)

The Fujifilm Instax Wide smartphone printer has a variety of whacky and fun features to help users express their creativity in unique ways. The Instax Link Wide app (APP NAME) allows you to add text, apply filters, resize images, and more. Connect your smartphone to printer via Bluetooth and let the magic unfold. 

 

Before printing your film, you can choose between Instax-Natural mode for natural image quality or Instax-Rich mode to add more color contrast. Plus, you can access 30 editing templates for creating personalized messages. Everything from greeting cards and invitations to even adding QR codes on your photo containing recorded sounds and secret messages. 

 

Kit includes: 

Fujifilm Instax Wide Instant Film Twin Pack (20 Exposures), Focus Camera Polaroid Postcard Set (20-pack, 10 Plain/10 Mixed), and the Focus Camera Film Kit for Polaroid i-Type, 600 and SX-70 with 20 Postcards, 6 Frames, and a storage box. 

 

Highlights: 

  • Print instant film in wide-format
  • Compatible with Instax WIDE film
  • Bluetooth Ver. 4.2
  • Portable on-the-go design
  • Bring moments to life in rich mode
  • QR Print mode gives a variety of options

Polaroid NOW+ Instant Film Camera

Polaroid NOW + Instant Film Camera 

The Polaroid Now+ has an iconic look with great qualities to match. It uses an Auto-Focus 2-lens system to help set you up with the best quality shot. On top of this, it has a built-in double exposure system, self-timer (up to 9 seconds), smart flash for more accurate photos, and a rechargeable battery. Download the Polaroid mobile app to add aperture priority and tripod mode for peak optimization.  

 

Kit includes: 

Five creative lens filters, a USB charging cable, and a neck strap.

Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro Camera (Printer Combo) 

 

Like Kodak’s photo printer, the Mini Shot 3 Retro Camera uses laminated photos and 4Pass technology to print durable, long-lasting film. Users can quickly replace the film, click, print, or easily cancel unwanted pictures. You can also connect to a mobile device via Bluetooth to print photos from your photo gallery. 

 

Highlights:

  • Regular & Portrait Lens
  • Manual Mode & Double Exposure
  • Light Painting & Self-Timer
  • Autofocus &Smart Flash
  • Tripod Mount

Canon IVY CLIQ+ 2 Instant Camera Printer

Canon IVY CLIQ+ 2 Instant Camera Printer, instant photo printer camera

The Canon IVY CLIQ instant camera printer has an 8MP image sensor and ZINK Zero ink printing technology, eliminating the need for ink (saving you a few dollars). The 8″ LED ring light makes selfie pictures look extra lovely plus, each photo uses a peel-and-stick backing, so you place them where you please, like on the fridge or bedroom walls. You can use the Canon Mini Print App to add filters, effects, and emojis. 

Canon IVY CLIQ+ 2 Instant Camera Printer  

 

The Canon IVY CLIQ instant camera printer has an 8MP image sensor and ZINK Zero ink printing technology, eliminating the need for ink (saving you a few dollars). The 8″ LED ring light makes selfie pictures look extra lovely plus, each photo uses a peel-and-stick backing, so you place them where you please, like on the fridge or bedroom walls. You can use the Canon Mini Print App to add filters, effects, and emojis. 

 

Highlights:

  • 8MP image sensor
  • ZINK Zero Ink Printing technology
  • Instantly prints 2 x 3 inches photo stickers
  • Smudge-free, water and tear-resistant
  • Peel-and-stick backing

Kodak Mini 3 Retro Printer Portable Instant Photo Printer

Kodak Mini 3 Retro Portable Instant Photo Printer Bundle (Yellow, 3x3 Inch)

The Mini 3 Retro Printer uses 4Pass technology to print stunningly timeless mini photos resistant to water and fingerprints. This photo printer allows you to choose between border or borderless images; if you prefer slightly larger prints, you can always eliminate borders. Simply download the Kodak Photo Printer app and have fun creating frames and filters. The Mini 3 Retro is a good choice if you want more budget-friendly instant photo printer film.  

 

Kit includes: 

Cartridge box (60 sheets), User Manual, USB cable, and sample cartridge (8 sheets).

 

Highlights:

  • 4Pass Technology to print flawless photos instantly
  • Supports both border and borderless-type photos
  • Fits right in your hands and your bag to conveniently print

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ20 Hybrid Instant Camera

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ20 Hybrid Instant Camera (Black), theb est instant camera and photo printer

The Instax Square SQ20 Hybrid instant cam uses a digital image sensor and processor to produce pristine hi-res photos. Unlike typical instant cameras, lowlight scenes are not a problem for the Instax SQ20. You can create 62mm x 62mm square film photos and utilize its impressive 4x digital zoom to make sure no shot is out of reach.

Enhance saturation, and apply a vintage look or the vignette effect for unique portraits. It uses a smart-tech LCD monitor to make editing photos seamless; plus, you can add digital filters, control brightness, and zoom and crop images for many creative possibilities. Users can choose to apply image effects before and after snapping a pic.

Highlights:

  • 1/5″ CMOS sensor with primary color filter
  • 1920×1920 effective pixels
  • 62mm x 62mm square instant photos
  • Fixed focal length at 33.4 mm (35mm equivalent)

Polaroid Original Instant Lab (with i-Type Color Film)

Polaroid Originals Instant Lab, print film instantly

Dig up those delightful digital memories and transform them into something tangible with the Polaroid Original Instant Lab. Rather than connecting your smartphone to printer via Bluetooth, the Original Instant Lab uses a 3-lens system to expose the image on your phone screen to Polaroid Film. Afterward, the image is developed into a Polaroid picture.  

 

This retro film device also uses an app that allows you to create a photo collage of up to 9 frames. Plus, you can use its augmented reality tool to overlap still images onto motion pictures for a world of endless expressions at your fingertips. 

 

Kit includes: 

Polaroid Originals Instant Lab, Polaroid Originals Standard Color Film for i-Type Cameras, and Polaroid Accessory Bundle with Transparent Hanging Album, V Frame, and Paper Frame. 

 

Highlights: 

  • Turns digital photos into instant Polaroid pictures
  • Uses a 3-lens system that acts like a desktop darkroom
  • No printing or scanning, just 100% real film chemistry
  • Compatible with Polaroid Originals app

Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera with film pack

The Instax Mini EVO Hybrid instant camera is a bit pricier, but for a good reason. This sleek hybrid camera has ten lens effects and ten film effect options for tons of creative experimentation. You adjust exposure, and white balance, control the flash (on/off) and use Macro mode for close-ups.  

 

You can print film photos or take those moments to social media using the Mini EVO app.  You’ll get vividly bright image quality with the INSTAX-Rich mode and cool classic colors with the INSTAX-Neutral mode.   

 

Kit includes:  

Focus Camera Polaroid Film Kit for Polaroid i-Type, 600 and SX-70 Cameras, 3 x Magnetic Frames, 10 x Hanging Frames with Clips, Stationery Storage Box, 20 x Focus Camera Instax Mini Postcards/Letters with Envelopes, 10 x Plain White Postcards, 5 x Striped Postcards, 5 x Multicolored Squiggle Postcards, Stationery Storage Box, 2 x Metallic Pens 

 

Highlights: 

  • 10 lens effect options and 10 film effect options
  • Built-in selfie mirror so you’re perfectly framed for a selfie
  • Dual shutter buttons – portrait and landscape
  • Requires download of free Instax Mini EVO App

Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 Instant Camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera with film pack

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 instant cam has a rougher, more edgy look. It takes about 90 seconds to develop photos and has built-in selfie mode for fun selfies all day long. You can pull out the lens to help make those mirror pics seamless and stunning. And its automatic exposure mode allows the camera to account for light settings within your scene for picture-perfect moments. 

 

Highlights: 

  • Produces instant print
  • Built-in one-touch selfie mode and selfie mirror
  • Built-in automatic exposure for ideal pictures every time
  • Constant firing flash

 

Last-Minute Holiday Gift Guide | Deals & Bundles

By
Keith Rodman
-

Holiday Shoppers: Want more fantastic deals for a last-minute holiday gift? Explore our holiday deals and clearance page for up to 50% off! Plus, join our Gift Giveaway sweepstakes (winners picked every day until 12/23/2023).

Tis’ the season of love, laughter, and last-minute holiday shopping hysteria. Because we all know a gift order placed too late can be the difference between the naughty and nice list. Fortunately, Focus Camera understands the importance of convenient holiday deals and fast shipping options. Here’s a last-minute holiday gift guide with fantastic sales going on right now. This includes bundles and discounts on tons of items to make your holiday shopping a more holly-jolly experience.

Focusrite Vocaster One Studio Essential Audio Podcast Interface Bundle

Focusrite Vocaster One Podcast Audio Interface, gift for podcaster

Holiday deal: $50 off until 01/01/2023

Focusrite’s Vocaster One Studio Interface is the ideal last-minute holiday gift for podcasters. This interface is user-friendly, easy to set up, and has everything to help get that special someone’s podcast up and running to the next level. This bundle comes with a crystal-clear DM1 microphone, HP60v headphones, Knox Gear Vader Telescoping microphone stand, 3-meter XLR cable, and a 1/4in TRS cable (6 feet).

Get up to 15% off more Focusrite audio gear until 12/31/2022.

F-Stop DuraDiamond Shinn 80L Backpack

F stop camera bag gift for photographer

Holiday deal: $100 off until 12/10/2022

The DuraDiamond Shinn backpack is made to make traveling with camera gear as easy as possible. This reliable backpack is suitable for photographers who travel with lots of equipment and need to stay organized. It contains weather-resistant zippers, plenty of pockets, and foam straps for comfort all day long.

Get up to 20% off more F-stop bags right now until 12/10/2022.

Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera (Body Only)

Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera, great last minute shopping deal for photographers

Holiday deal: $129 off until 01/01/2023

The Pentax K-70 DSLR camera is bound to fill the air with holiday cheer. This camera is another exceptional last-minute gift for photographers, sporting a 24MP APS-C high-definition sensor, spectacular hybrid AF, in-body shake reduction, and more. Shooting in the elements is no problem with its weather-resistant design and ergonomic grip for perfect control. Capture all your favorite holiday occasions with the Pentax K-70.

Get up to $400 off more Pentax/Ricoh gear until 12/10/2022.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 Bluetooth Speaker

Wonderboom 3 Bluetooth speaker, a good last minute shopping deal

Holiday deal: $20 off until 01/01/2023

Jam out to your favorite holiday jingles this year with the Wonderboom 3 Bluetooth speaker.  This little portable speaker packs a loud boom and a big bass, with 14 hours of playtime to keep the tunes flowing all day long. The Wonderboom 3’s 360 bass and compact size make it great for both an in and outdoor listening experience. It’s dust, dirt, and water-resistant, easy to connect to, and has the power to pair up to two speakers for double the sensation.

Dremel 8220-1/28 12-Volt Max Cordless Rotary Tool

Dremel 8220-1 28 12-Volt Max Cordless Rotary, save on supply tools with our last minute shopping deals

Holiday deal: $12 off until 12/19/2022

You can’t go wrong with Dremel’s All-Purpose accessory kit. This toolbox has over 150 tools to fix just about anything requiring cutting, grinding, sanding, polishing, cleaning, and more. If you know anyone constantly building and repairing things, you’ve found their next favorite companion, the toolkit that does it all.

Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, great audio last minute holiday gift

Holiday deal: $20 off until 01/01/2023

The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen bundle is another outstanding audio interface system for singers/songwriters and musicians. Vocalist will have tones of cheerful holiday tunes to sing and record all season long. This bundle comes with professional equipment at a budget price and easy recording operation and setup. It includes an SM25 MkIII mic, Knox gear mic stand (shock mount, boom scissor arm, and pop filter), HP60 MkIII headphones, XLR cable (3 meters), and Ableton Live Lite Music Making Software.

Unistellar eVscope eQuinox Digital Telescope

Unistellar eVscope eQuinox Digital Telescope - great last minute shopping deal, holiday gift

Holiday deal: $600 off until 12/26/2022

Reach for the stars with the impeccable eVscope eQuinox digital telescope. This telescope is top-of-the-line and will produce some of the most vibrantly sharp images of the galaxy you’ll ever witness. This is the perfect gift for aspiring astronomers, space connoisseurs, and enthusiasts, and it takes little time to set up. They can gather data using visuals, charts, and 3D printings and connect using a dedicated app to enhance their experience.

Panasonic Lumix G95 Hybrid Mirrorless Camera (12-60mm Lens)

Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera

Holiday deal: $300 off until 12/25/2022

Make those joyful moments freeze in time with the Panasonic Lumix G95 Hybrid mirrorless camera. If you are looking for last-minute shopping deals on a nice camera and lens, look no further. The Lumix G95 has a four-third 20MP sensor and is great for creative projects from photography to vlogging. It has exceptional image stabilization, 4K 24/30p video, and supports external microphones (3.5mm jack).

Get up to $300 off on more Panasonic gear.

Bosch Self-Leveling Green-Beam Rotary Laser with Layout Beam

Bosch Self-Leveling Green-Beam Rotary Laser

Holiday deal: $70 off until 12/16/2022

Get your last-minute holiday gift “squared” away with the Bosch Self-Leveling Laser. This is one of the most credible leveling tools designed to use innovative technology for professional results. It projects a 90-degree (plumb) line for spot-on squaring and has convenient self-leveling features for seamlessly well-done jobs every time.

15 Great Gifts for the Outdoor Enthusiast | Hikers, Birdwatchers, Backpackers, Fishers

By
Keith Rodman
-

Enjoy, fantastic gifts for the outdoors: optics, backpacks, trail cameras, portable speakers, and more.  

Ah, the great outdoors! Mother nature’s best gift for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. But what about their gift from you? This holiday season we’ve created a friendly gift-giving guide for those outdoorsy family and friends you appreciate. If you know a hiker needing a backpack, a birdwatcher needing binoculars, or a nature photographer needing a camera bag for travel, we have the gear they’ll love. This guide contains excellent kits for:

  • Nature-Lovers
  • Birdwatching
  • Hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Nature/Landscape/Macro/Astro/Wildlife Photography
  • Stargazing
  • Outdoor Sports/Activities:
    • Fishing
    • Hunting
    • Mountain Climbing
    • Swimming
    • Skiing
Gifts for the outdoors everyone will love - hikers, campers, birdwatchers, nature lovers
photo courtesy of photo nic

Plus, if you’re looking for more affordable gear, we also included items under $100 that you’ll want to check out. It’s time to find that perfect gift for the outdoors and put a big smile on someone’s face this holiday season.

Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar GPS Smartwatch

Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar GPS Smartwatch with Black Band (Carbon Gray), gift for hikers, backpackers, travelers
Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar GPS Smartwatch

The impressive GPS smartwatch ready for any voyage.

As the name suggests, the Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire is solar-powered and highly durable with water, shock, and thermal resistance. Its built-in sports app helps users stay ready for all outdoor activities, such as hiking, rowing, golfing, skiing, surfing, and climbing. This watch is ideal for tracking heart rate, oxygen intake, and movement metrics such as how much stamina you’re exerting, your pace, the weather, elevation levels, and more.

It’s even an excellent device for anyone into fitness or looking to track their fitness goals, helping to give workout suggestions like recovery advice and HIIT interval tracking.

You can check out more Garmin gear on sale.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Outdoor sports
    • Swimming
    • Skiing
    • Mountain climbing
  • Fitness Activities/Health Monitoring

The Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire is great for anyone passionate about traveling in the wilderness, especially for long periods. It’s solar charging features, built-in flashlight, and GPS make it great for avid backpackers and hikers. However, its sports apps, workout suggestions, and heart-monitoring capabilities support athletes and fitness enthusiasts as well.

Zeiss 10×42 Victory SF Binoculars

Zeiss 10x42 Victory SF Binoculars, birdwatcher gift, gifts for the outdoors
Zeiss 10×42 Victory SF Binoculars

The Zeiss 10×42 Victory SF binoculars are one of the sharpest optics on the market. Users can experience the authenticity of extra-low dispersion, outstanding contrast, and no distortion. Its wide field of view makes nature and bird watching a comfortable experience without having to pan and turn excessively.

You can check out more binoculars and accessories on sale.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Birdwatching
  • Hiking
  • Wildlife/nature photography
  • Landscape photography
  • Astrophotography

These Zeiss optics are an excellent gift for experienced birdwatchers and nature gazers. Its impeccable quality, combined with quick and accurate autofocus, makes it ideal for quickly spotting fast-moving birds and other small creatures.

Lifestyle by Focus 34 Quart Electric Cooler/Warmer

Lifestyle by Focus 34-Quart Electric Cooler/Warmer with Dual AC and DC Power Cords, gifts for the outdoor, camping / road trips/ beach
Lifestyle by Focus 34-Quart Electric Cooler/Warmer with Dual AC and DC Power Cords

Regarding eating outdoors, the 34 Quarter Electric Cooler/Warmer is the perfect picnic companion. It has outstanding quality and performance. You will be satisfied whether you need to keep your food heated during a wild winter storm or nice and cool in the sizzling summer. Its versatile interior allows heating up to 130° F and cooling to 40 ° F. You can also power it using a 67-inch 12V DC car adapter and a 58-inch AC power cord.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Skiing trips
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Picnics
  • Road Trips
  • The beach
  • BBQs

This all-in-one cooler/heater makes storing food during mini-vacations or road trips seamless. Many people use it for everyday activities like holding groceries for long trips to the store. This is highly recommended if you enjoy picnics, BBQs, and days at the beach.

F-Stop Urban Series Fitzroy 11-Liter Camera Bag

f-stop Urban Series Fitzroy 11-Liter Camera Bag (Navy Blue), gift for nature photographers, gifts for the outdoors
f-stop Urban Series Fitzroy 11-Liter Camera Bag (Navy Blue)

This Urban Series camera bag is essential for keeping gear safe from the elements and organized. Its ergonomic design makes carrying it on long trips effortless, and its removable dividers make managing equipment easy—a great feel and size. Do you know anyone searching for a new camera bag?

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Wildlife/nature photography
  • Landscape photography
  • Astrophotography
  • Flower photography
  • Macro photography
  • Time-lapse photography
  • Travel photography

Photographers performing long hikes with gear to get the perfect nature shot will enjoy the Urban Series Fitzroy bag. This can be especially useful to photographers with large amounts of equipment.

Check out other great F-stop bags.

Stealth Cam G42NG 32MP No Glow Trail and Wildlife Camera

Stealth Cam G42NG 32MP No Glo, outdoor gift for hunters
Stealth Cam G42NG 32MP No Glo Trail and Wildlife Camera

The Stealth Cam is a standard and reliable trail camera that is great for capturing animals in inaccessible locations or when you’re not around. Its Reflex trigger has outstanding speeds, capable of snapping photos in less than half a second for quick-moving animals. Furthermore, it has the capacity and power to record 5-180 seconds of HD video with audio.

You can check out other fantastic trail cameras on sale.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Hunting/scouting
  • Wildlife watching/researching

Trail cameras are an excellent outdoor gift for hunters and wildlife photographers looking to get rare photos and footage of animals when they’re not there. It is a constant set of eyes, creating authentic breathtaking shots of nature in action.

Ricoh Pentax 8 x 43 Z-Series ZD WP Binoculars (With Harness and Lens Cleaning Pen)

Ricoh Pentax 8 x 43 Z-Series ZD WP Binoculars with Binocular Harness and Lens Cleaning Pen birdwatching gift
Ricoh Pentax 8 x 43 Z-Series ZD WP Binoculars with Binocular Harness and Lens Cleaning Pen

The Ricoh Pentax 8×43 Z-Series AD WP binocular kit is a nature enthusiast’s dream bundle. The binoculars come with a cleaning pen and harness to help users prepare for hours of fun sightseeing. The optics are made of an anti-reflection, fully multicoated build, which increases the contrast of colors and maximizes ideal brightness and quality. The harness is designed to make elongated nature watching a pleasurable experience with little discomfort, especially for birdwatchers experiencing back or neck pain.

You can check out other Ricoh/Pentax optics and lenses on sale.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Nature/wildlife/bird watching
  • Wildlife/nature photography
  • Landscape photography
  • Astrophotography

This is a no-brainer present for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and wildlife photographers looking to spot potential shooting opportunities.

Garmin inReach Explorer+ Handheld Satellite Communicator with TOPO Maps & GPS

Garmin inReach Explorer+ Handheld Satellite Communicator with Topo Maps and GPS Navigation, gifts for the outdoor, backpacker gift, gift for hikers

If you know anyone obsessed with off-trail hiking or backpacking and you care about their safety— the Garmin inReach Explorer is well worth it. This satellite communicator is built for any adventure on or off the grid. They’ll be able to communicate virtually anywhere, share their location, use GPS and TOPO maps, track voyages, send SOS signals to monitoring centers, and so much more. Moreover, it helps users send text messages and post to social media whenever they choose to connect back to the world.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Camping
  • (Off-trail) Backpacking/hiking
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Traveling
  • Rock climbing/Mountaineering

This device is the ultimate adventure companion. This is a high-quality device and a great backpacker or hiker gift, especially for those who love going off-trail. No matter where they are, it’ll add an extra layer of comfort and safety without compromising the joys of going off grid.

Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ Telescope

Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ Telescope - stargazing gift, gifts for the outdoors
Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Refractor Telescope

Behold the night sky and all of its wonders using the Celestron StarSense Explorer Telescope. This telescope is one of a kind and accessible for all stargazers, from beginners to advanced. It uses a StarSense sky recognition app (on your phone) to analyze star patterns and map their real-time positions. Furthermore, this telescope doubles as an excellent gift for birdwatchers and wildlife observers due to its 90-degree erect image diagonal for quality day gazing.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Stargazing
  • Camping
  • Backpacking
  • Wildlife/Birdwatching

Using this telescope is like having a guide to the night sky, pointing out the beauty of the cosmos before your very eyes. It’s easy to use and recommended for all levels of stargazers, birdwatchers, and wildlife observers. It comes with an 80mm refactor, 25mm and 10mm eyepieces, 2x Barlow lens, StarSense smartphone dock, red dot finder scope, and more.

Sony SRS-XE200 X-Series Wireless Ultra Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Sony SRS-XE200 X-Series Wireless Ultra Portable Bluetooth Speaker - best gift for camping, speakers for camping / backpacking / fishing
Sony SRS-XE200 X-Series Wireless Ultra Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The Sony SRS-XE200 speakers are made to be played anywhere and handle most environments. They have IP66 water and dust resistance rating for high durability. In addition, the battery life lasts up to 30 hours, so users stay entertained on long hikes or camping trips.

What is this outdoor gift good for: 

  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Outdoor sports
  • Beach/lake trips
  • Road trips
  • Picnics
  • BBQs

This present is for anyone who appreciates the sound of the outdoors and a little music to set the mood; they’ll appreciate this portable speaker. This an excellent outdoor gift idea for campers, anglers, hikers, and anyone who plays music during their downtime.

Gifts for the Outdoors (Under $100)

Pentax Jupiter (8×40) Binoculars with Harness and Lens Cleaning Pen Bundle

Pentax Jupiter (8x40) Binoculars with Harness and Lens Cleaning Pen Bundle- best gift for birdwatchers
Pentax Jupiter (8×40) Binoculars with Harness and Lens Cleaning Pen Bundle

You can get the Pentax Jupitar binoculars for $30 off right now until 11/29.

You may know someone who would consider themselves a novice nature watcher. Instead of overspending on pricier binoculars, get the Pentax Jupitar 8×40 binocular bundle. It still comes with a cleaning pen and harness but is a more affordable beginner birdwatcher gift.

Vortex Solo 8×25 Waterproof Monocular

Vortex Solo 8x25 Waterproof Monocular - gift for nature photographer, birdwatchers, campers
Vortex Solo 8×25 Waterproof Monocular

The Vortex Solo 8×25 monocular is an excellent optic, no matter the conditions. It is compact, feels great to hold, and has impeccable visual capabilities with a magnification of up to 8x the distance.

Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit

Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit - birdwatcher gift
Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit

Because even outdoor gear still needs a good cleaning every once in and while.

The Zeiss Spray Lens care kit is affordable, simple, and still a meaningful gift for birdwatchers, hunters, and anyone using scopes or optics. It cleans all lenses thoroughly, including binoculars, camera lenses, LCDs (laptops/cellphones), scopes, and even eyeglasses, as a bonus.

Dynatrap Ultralight Insect and Mosquito Trap

Nature can be pleasant, but not as much when it’s buzzing in your face. The Dynatrap Insect Trap is perfect for any outdoor location with abundant mosquitos and pests. And anyone who enjoys outdoor BBQs, picnics, and backyard/balcony lounging knows just how persistent insects can be. The Insect Eliminator is portable, quiet, and has an effective radius of 300 sq ft for outdoor delight without a bug in sight.

Field Optics Birder’s Bundle with Eyeshields, Pock Cleaning Kit & Steady Sticks - birdwatcher gift
Field Optics Birder’s Bundle with Eyeshields, Pock Cleaning Kit & Steady Sticks

This Field Optics Birder’s bundle is yet another great set of equipment to give to someone who enjoys being outdoors. The kit has three different-sized flexible eye shields to help block ambient light, a clearing kit, and a stand for image stability and arm fatigue. If you know a birdwatcher, who spends long hours observing, this is the perfect kit for them.

Bushnell A200L Rubicon Lighting 200 Lumens Compact LED Lantern

Bushnell Latern - great gift for camping overnight
Bushnell A200L Rubicon Lighting 200 Lumens Compact LED Lantern

The Bushnell Rubicon Lantern is a perfect light source for any overnight camping trip. It is reliable enough for long camping trips with a 50-hour runtime. It’s easy to carry and hang, water-resistant, and has a red halo low-lumen mode for enhanced light with natural night vision compatibility.

Shakespeare Catch More Fish Tackle Box Kit

Fish Tackle Box Kit - great gift for fishers/anglers
Shakespeare Catch More Fish Tackle Box Kit

The Catch More Fish kit is one of our popular kits, suitable for beginners and young children who desire to become great fishers. It contains a durable tackle tray for storage, shrimp and crab bait, and a rigging guide for flawless fishing.

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