Pentax HD D FA 100mm F2.8 ED AW Macro Review Posted

Modernized macro lens from Pentax

By bdery in Review Announcements on Mar 5, 2023

We are happy to present our review of the newly released Pentax HD D FA 100mm F2.8 ED AW Macro!

An updated version of the original SMC Macro lens released in 2009, this new HD version uses a mostly similar body, improved weather resistance, new coatings, and an updated optical formula which is supposed to improve chromatic aberration and purple fringing control, one of the main weaknesses of its predecessor.

This new lens still uses screw-drive AF but is supposed to be faster to lock focus. It can also make use of a virtual focus limiter, but only when used with the Pentax K-3 III camera body.

Is this new lens only an incremental improvement, or a revolution over its predecessor? In this review, we pit the two lenses side-by-side, taking the opportunity to completely update our SMC D FA 100mm Macro WR data, which only included APS-C information.

Read our review to find out what we thought of the new HD D FA 100mm AW Macro!

Review: LA-KE1 Monster Adapter to use Pentax lenses on Sony E-mount

By bdery in Review Announcements on Jan 23, 2023

Today we are happy to present our review of the LA-KE1 from Monster Adapter!

This adapter allows the use of Pentax K-mount lenses on mirrorless Sony E-mount cameras, while preserving autofocus, auto exposure, and proper EXIF recording. It uses the AF motor of the lens, and is currently the only product in the world to do so.

This adapter unlocks new possibilities for Pentax and Sony users alike, but is it any good?

Read our review to find out!

Nomatic / McKinnon Camera Bag Line review posted

By bdery in Review Announcements on Dec 28, 2022

Today we are happy to present our review of two camera bags!

Originating from a collaboration between bag maker Nomatic and photographer / youtuber Peter McKinnon, the Nomatic line of camera bags and accessories includes two full backpacks, a sling, a collapsible backpack, and several accessories.

In this review, we take a look at the Camera Pack 25L, an everyday backpack, and the Sling 8L, a smaller option for light carry.

Read on to find out what we think of these two bags!

Venus Laowa 20mm F4 Zero-D Shift Lens Review Posted

By bdery in Review Announcements on Nov 21, 2022

Today we are happy to present our in-depth review of the full-frame Laowa 20mm F4 Zero-D Shift lens from Venus Optics.

In addition to being a welcome new wide angle option for the K-mount, this lens is one of the few offering Shift capabilities. This rare feature moves the lens mechanically with regards to the camera sensor, helping to correct for perspective distortion and making it easier to stitch large panoramas.

Read on to find out what we thought of the Laowa 20mm F4 Zero-D Shift!

Bag Review: The Updated Peak Design Travel Line

By bdery in Review Announcements on Aug 8, 2022

Today we are happy to present our review of the updated Peak Design Travel line.

The Travel line was originally launched in 2019, and we had good things to say about it. Over the years, Peak Design launched new components to the lineup, in particular duffel bags, and in 2022 the company made a notable update. Apart from new colorways for some of the components, this new launch includes a new backpack, pouches, and packable tote.

Instead of offering only camera bags, the Travel line targets traveling photographers, with a balance between the ability to carry and use photo equipment, while also covering all the other needs of a traveler.

How can the Travel line serve the needs of photographers on the move? Read our review to find out!