Photography Wishlist for 2021
At the start of a new year, many see an opportunity to start fresh. While photographers share their hopes for 2021, many creatives are already planning for future photo assignments, business opportunities, contests or passion projects.
With new goals, plans, and resolutions come new tools for experimentation and creativity. To explore this potential further, we asked a few PhotoShelter members what gear they wanted to try this year and which tools couldn’t live without; below you can read their responses, along with photos shot using some of that equipment!
Joanie Simon: What new gear would you love to try in 2021?
I’ve never shot with a tilt shift lens before and would love to experiment. I hear 85mm is best for food photographers but would love to find out for myself which option best meets my needs.
What piece of gear cannot you live without?
An effective tripod. I rely on several Manfrotto tripods in the studio; this particular model stands out as my favourite.
Do you have photos taken recently using new gear that would like to share with us?
Since October, I made the switch to mirrorless photography with my Nikon Z7 and 24-70mm f2.8S lens and couldn’t be happier! Particularly with Capture One Pro; its seamless integration has made workflow seamless which was my primary motivation behind switching. In addition, I’ve used it for portrait sessions – its autofocus capabilities proved spot on; even photographed my Mom’s new puppy with no complaints whatsoever!
What piece of new gear would you love to purchase or try in 2021?
Portraiture photography requires off-camera lighting, with speedlights often providing convenient portable illumination and quick setup times. But getting enough power from them to offset daylight conditions can sometimes prove challenging.
So that’s why I’ve begun researching the new Westcott FJ200 monolights. At 200Ws, they offer solid light output while fitting easily in my pocket compared to speedlights. When used in combination with the FJ-X2m wireless trigger and receiver unit, TTL and HSS from most major camera manufacturers is possible, plus their removable and rechargeable batteries mean I won’t be searching for outlets!
What piece of gear cannot you live without?
Photographers know it’s best to keep their equipment light. Personally, I usually limit myself to only carrying two bodies each with 24-70mm and 70-200mm lenses attached, though sometimes additional items must be accessed quickly – such as during election coverage – when needed. When providing more rapid coverage this past year I added additional items onto my waist using Think Tank’s modular belt system; specifically attaching Lens Changer 35 and Stuff It! Belt Pouch provided quick access to lenses or other necessities quickly.
Do you have photos taken recently using your new gear that could inspire others?
Although Nikon released their FL ED 70-200mm f/2.8 VR lens back in 2016, I only recently took delivery. Replacing an old, tired telephoto lens that wasn’t up to par, I wasn’t prepared for just how significant a difference it could make until covering Juneteenth celebrations soon after its arrival.
Juneteenth is becoming more widely celebrated. Marking the end of slavery in Texas (and the US) nearly two years after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, Juneteenth now celebrates Black joy while simultaneously marking an opportunity for social justice.
Telephoto lenses give photographers a lot of reach to work with, which can be invaluable when creating editorial work during pandemics such as this photo from 2014. I was stunned at how the improved color saturation and sharp focus surpassed my expectations; making me question why I waited so long. Going forward, my next lens purchase may well be mirrorless so we’ll have to wait and see what further advancements can be seen there.