Buying

As we move into 2019, we look at the current state of play in the interchangeable-lens camera (ILC) market, investigate trends and air credible rumours that have surfaced so far.

Everyone loves a bargain, and some popular models are available from online retailers operating out of Asia and the US at prices that might appear to be competitive. But appearances can be deceptive: if it looks too good, it very often is, and there’s a whole range of considerations the canny consumer needs to keep in mind when buying online…

The equipment you choose will depend on how you approach street photography. If, like Henri Cartier-Bresson, you prefer keeping a low profile, you will tend to choose smaller, less conspicuous equipment. On the other hand, if you’re a confident photographer who is happy to engage with subjects (like Diane Arbus), the visibility of your equipment will be irrelevant. The following tips will guide you to the best types of gear for street photography, whichever of the approaches you take…

They say the best camera is the one you have with you but could your smartphone ever replace a ‘proper’ camera?

What you can – and shouldn’t – do with equipment that is labelled ‘weather resistant’.

Macro lenses are the path to larger-than-life close-ups.

How the sensor in your camera influences the images it produces…

Back in the days of film, most photographers fitted UV, haze or skylight filters to every lens, partly to block the ultraviolet radiation that could impart a blue cast to photographs (all films can record invisible UV radiation) and partly to protect the front element of the lens. Filters still have their uses for today’s digital photographers, however there are situations where you need to be discriminating in your choice of filter.