Madrid, Spain—The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) revealed the 2024 TIPA World Awards winners for the best photo-imaging products of the year. The awards reflect the current state as well as the future direction of technology, products and services for professional, enthusiast and amateur consumers. Additionally, they serve as an indication of things to come in the photo-imaging field.
At the annual general assembly of TIPA members, held this year in Rome, Italy, representatives from TIPA’s worldwide group of professional, amateur and business magazines and online publications from Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America voted on TIPA World Award winners in 40 product categories. They were also joined by a delegate from the Camera Journal Press Club in Japan.
The awards cover cameras and lenses in every category, from entry level to expert as well as professional. Additionally, TIPA member representatives voted on a wide range of products and services that make up the imaging industry today. They include software, on-demand print products, monitors, storage media, accessories and lighting. 
Furthermore, new trends in AI, in both cameras and processing software, were a topic of discussion. There was also a special presentation by Hans Hartman, president of Suite 48 Analytics and chairman of Visual 1st—a new individual member of TIPA. Members also noted the growing blend of still and video recording capabilities in cameras in every market category; advances in both technology and offerings in the print-on-demand market; as well as advancements in both the dynamic range and capture capabilities of premium cameras.
Moreover, the TIPA World Award logo is recognized as designating the highest quality photo-imaging products. The awards serve as a source of pride among companies receiving the TIPA World Award. They are also a benchmark that provides guidance to consumers in making purchasing decisions.
Photographers’ Choice 2024
What’s more, an added feature to this year’s awards is the new Photographers’ Choice Awards. It is chosen by TIPA magazine and online readers, with selections based on a poll hosted on the Photographers’ Choice 2024 page. Categories include Cameras, Lenses, Accessories, Services as well as Tech & Design. Polling closes in the fall, when the TIPA World Awards ceremony will take place.
“Every year, our process for choosing the TIPA World Award winners involves research, testing and decisions about how each winner will bring new capabilities and excitement to the photo and imaging sector,” commented Thomas Gerwers, chairman of TIPA. “This year, cutting edge technology, new trends in professional and consumer needs and the continued evolution of imaging capabilities were all on display. We offer our congratulations to the winners for a job well done.”
2024 TIPA World Awards Winners
Following are this year’s TIPA World Awards winners in each category, as well as what the TIPA members had to say about them.
BEST CAMERAS
Professional MFT: Panasonic Lumix G9II
The Panasonic Lumix G9II is a high-end content creator camera with enhanced AI-powered subject-recognition technology. Viewing is enjoyable thanks to its 3.68-million-dot OLED EVF. Moreover, quick file transfers are provided by its two SD card slots and Type-C USB port.
The camera’s video and still capture capabilities—which include 14 frames per second (fps) for up to 170 consecutive stills in RAW format (mechanical shutter) and cinematic quality 4K DCI and 4K UHD 60p with no time limit on recording, in addition to high-resolution slow motion 4K 120p—really impressed the TIPA editors. A new Active IS (image stabilization) mode for on-the-go productions compensates for camera shake while filming in motion. Additionally, an EIS system is available for truly on-the-run shooting.
APS-C Entry Level: Canon EOS R100
This is a perfect entry-level camera, one that can serve as a gateway to today’s connected camera environment and a whole world of Canon interchangeable lenses. The EOS R100 is affordable, compact, lightweight and a decent travel camera. There’s easy access to video and still features that allow, with an ISO range up to 12,800, for low-light capture, auto subject and eye-detection AF. And for capturing a wide range of activities at 6.5 fps.
Connectivity options also apply to wireless image transfer, remote control, all the benefits of the Canon Connect app and even GPS synching via a smartphone. In short, this is a great choice for a budding content creator and especially a perfect gift for a bon voyage.
APS-C Expert: Sony Alpha 6700
For content creators who want a very wide range of still and videomaking tools, the Sony Alpha 6700 incorporates a large suite of features adapted from Sony’s Cinema Line. Capturing action is made easy with real-time tracking in both video and still modes, an 11-fps still rate and candid-worthy low-light performance with autofocus powered by AI to -3 EV. Special video functions include enhanced AI driven auto-framing for subject tracking when vlogging.
There is also a wide choice of time-lapse settings and streaming, sharing and Creative Cloud connectivity via USB and Wi-Fi. The unit also offers the HEIF, or High Efficiency Image File, format that uses less space while preserving image quality. This makes it especially useful for high-frame rate video and storing multiple images in burst, HDR as well as similar high data modes.
Full-Frame Expert: Nikon Z f
TIPA members praised the 24.5MP Nikon Z f as an excellent example of convergence between classic design and modern technology. It combines a Nikon SLR retro-style look with still and video features that invite creative engagement. The Z f camera has proven to have great appeal to photo enthusiasts young and old. On-camera controls include precision dials settings for settings as well as an easy flip switch for choosing still or video capture.
Framing and PoV flexibility are also enhanced by a vari-angle LCD for live-view shooting that you can also use for quick menu selections. Plus, there’s a pentaprism-style OLED with 100% coverage. Advanced video recording and vlogging capabilities include 4K UHD 30p and Full HD 120p recording. Also provided are SnapBridge, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Full-Frame Professional: Nikon Z 8
Sharing many attributes with the flagship Nikon Z 9, the Z 8 hits a sweet spot in terms of size and weight for on-the-go enthusiast and working pro photographers and videographers. The choice between the two has more to do with the photographer’s mode, professional demands as well as the need to fit into a production regimen than any major feature tradeoffs.
Lightweight at just 2 pounds, the Z 8 is ideal for use with a gimbal for video use. Moreover, 30% smaller, it’s ideal for all day jobs when kit bag weight is an important consideration. But smaller and lighter does not mean a loss of features from those found in the Z 9, particularly sensor size, framing rates and all the AI and tracking functions.
Professional Hybrid: Sony Alpha 9 III
Global shutter systems record all pixels in the frame simultaneously rather than capture with “rolling shutters.” Notably, the Sony Alpha 9 III is the first full-frame iteration in a hybrid, or video/still camera. The amazing benefits include a maximum shutter speed of 1/80,000 sec, framing rates up to 120 fps with full AF/AE tracking, as well as flash sync at all shutter speeds.
Further, and a new pre-capture function records the moments that occurred before the shutter was released. For videographers global shutters eliminate artifacts and defects like panning jitter, light flicker and screen tearing, the latter resulting from flash going off during video recording. TIPA editors see global shutter technology leading to a new breed of hybrid cameras that will change what cameras can capture and bring newfound tools and techniques to the pro’s kit.
Premium: Leica M11-P
P-series Leica cameras are aimed at pros and photojournalists. This rangefinder model is the first to incorporate Content Authenticity Initiative credentials. That standard for digital content creation encrypts images with metadata that can be verified as to provenance and credits. It addresses a growing concern these days of image “fakes” and AI generation.
It’s also a photographer’s camera, one that prioritizes manual operation in a classic rangefinder design. Yet, the M11-P also offers very modern pixel-based technology with Triple Resolution technology. It allows for prioritization of balancing image size with resolution, dynamic range and noise level (60MP, 36MP and 18MP options). The camera also an internal memory of 256GB and a host of connectivity options via the Leica FOTOS app.
Compact P&S: Fujifilm X100VI
The original X100 was an instant hit and created a cult following that has only strengthened with every new generation model. Fujifilm’s 6th is the most appealing yet. It combines the series’ classic good looks with the imaging performance and cropping flexibility of a 40-megapixel sensor. Furthermore, IBIS is provided, extending the camera’s already-excellent low-light shooting capabilities.
In addition, Fujifilm’s X Processor 5 engine boosts the autofocusing performance, shooting speeds and video recording capabilities. The AI-based object recognition is also extended to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects and drones. Many other useful upgrades have also helped turn the Fujifilm X100VI into an unbeatable combination of performance and portability.
Professional Video: RED V-Raptor 8K VV
This is a highly versatile “Netflix approved” pro video camera from RED. Further, it allows for use with a wide variety of pro cine and still camera lenses. Plus, it offers a full palette of format selections. They include 8K VV, 6K, Super 35, HK, 4K and more, all of which means that it can deliver whatever the project requires. The 35.5MP full-frame sensor offers 17+ stops of dynamic range. Consequently, rich, vibrant images result no matter what the lighting conditions might be.
A bonus is the incorporation of phase-detection autofocus, a decided advantage for single operators when grabbing fast-paced or unpredictable action. For slow motion effects, the V-Raptor also offers a very wide range of frames-per-second rates using different recording formats, from 8K 17:9 at 120 fps to an incredible 2K at 600 fps.
Instant Camera Innovation: Polaroid I-2
Three-quarters of the century after the release of the first Polaroid Land Camera No 95, the principle of instant photography still fascinates the world of photography. Even more so with the younger generations. In get-together occasions, a Polaroid adds the fun factor by instantly producing printed memories and precious moments of life with a special artistic look. Polaroid model I-2 is the response to the brand’s fans who were seeking something more high-tech in the range.
It’s the first Polaroid with autofocus, in this case based on LiDAR technology, plus full auto, aperture priority, shutter priority and manual exposure functions. It also integrates exposure compensation, multiple exposure, self-timer, etc., thus enhancing versatility. The optics are redesigned with a 98mm f/8 higher performance lens. Additionally, Bluetooth support connects to a smartphone to control the camera remotely by means of the relevant app.
Medium-Format: Fujifilm GFX100 II
This camera combines the image performance of a larger sensor with the capabilities and convenience of Fujifilm’s G-mount mirrorless cameras. Furthermore, the GFX100 II presents itself as a viable alternative for the high-end user. With the Mark II model, Fujifilm added yet more versatility with faster continuous shooting at 8.0 fps, 10-bit HEIF capture, enhanced IBIS and an upgraded AF system with additional subject recognition modes.
More significantly, the GFX100 II suite of video features—topped by 8K 30p and internal Apple ProRes recording—is sufficient to compete with much higher priced dedicated cinema cameras. Consequently, the GFX100 II qualifies for the description of “all-rounder” in the digital medium-format realm.
Photo Smartphone: Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra redefines smartphone style and versatility. It starts with a 6.73-inch OLED display with a super-sharp 3,700×1,440 resolution at 522 ppi. In addition, Leica Summilux quad lens offerings, including 12mm, 23mm, 75mm and 120mm focal lengths, each deliver 50MP resolution. Creative fun is enhanced by “styles and looks,” including swirly bokeh, 90mm soft focus as well as documentary for stills.
For video, there’s 8K 30 fps recording. Moreover, a new movie mode delivers cinematic effects such as HDR videos in 10 bit, and there’s director’s mode for advanced postproduction integration. Add in a main 1-inch sensor, 14 EV dynamic range, a dual ISO system that seamlessly raises ISO without losing dynamic range, and 1TB storage and you have a most impressive cameraphone indeed.
BEST LENSES
APS-C Wide-Angle Zoom: Sigma 10–18mm f/2.8 DC DN | Contemporary
This Sigma Contemporary lens delivers an equivalent focal length of 15–27mm on APS-C cameras as well as a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8. It is also lightweight at 9.2 ounces and compact, measuring 2.8×2.4 inches. As a result, the lens is perfect for travel and intimate views of nature.
Moreover, with its minimum focusing distance of 4.6 inches and f/22 minimum aperture, you can capture sweeping perspectives with deep depth of field. Versatile for video capture as well, its stepping motor provides high-speed focus and smooth recording. Available in a variety of mounts, this is an ideal companion lens.
APS-C Standard: Viltrox ProLine AF 27mm f/1.2
If asked if they only had one focal length and maximum aperture to use as a walkabout lens, many photographers would choose specs that match this all-metal lens from Viltrox. Ideal for street photography, candids as well as travel, it’s available in mounts that fit APS-C Fujifilm, Nikon and Sony cameras. Further, its metal electronic contacts ensure Exif data transmission to the image file.
Plus, you can use the lens in either auto or manual focus mode. A newly designed STM stepping motor also affords fast autofocus and smooth video capture. What’s more, its 11-bladed diaphragm, close focusing distance of 11 inches and maximum aperture of f/1.2 mean amazing bokeh effects are created. The lens also supports the numerous automatic focusing modes available with contemporary APS-C cameras today.
Ultrawide-Angle Prime: Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF
Change the lens and you often change how you see the world, sometimes in quite radical fashion. This superwide, full-frame lens from Venus Optics certainly encourages a new way of looking at the world. Moreover, it does so with construction that earns its “Zero D” (zero distortion) moniker, with lens elements that limit aberrations and enhance sharpness.
Available in a wide assortment of mounts, it is the first lens in the Laowa lineup to offer autofocus operation (with Sony E and Nikon Z cameras, manual with others). Focus gets as close as 4.7 inches. Further, its 130º angle of view and f/2.8 to f/22 aperture make for fascinating compositions, from nature to cityscapes.
Standard Prime: Voigtländer Nokton 40mm f/1.2 Aspherical
This premium Voigtländer lens is for hands-on photographers who understand the charm of a fast, manual focus lens that delivers notable sharpness and clarity. The Nokton 40mm delivers even when set at its f/1.2 aperture. Previously introduced for the Leica M, Sony E mount and Nikon Z mount, this new lens couples with the Canon RF mount. Thus, it is one of the first independent lenses accepted into the RF club.
The lens contains two aspherical elements, which notably suppress spherical aberrations and distortions. Additionally, it allows for close focusing down to 11.8 inches. A ten-bladed diaphragm brings added charm to bokeh images, as well as allows for candid and creative work in very low-light conditions. The lens also permits clicked or click-less aperture change, a welcome feature for videographers.
Telephoto Prime: Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS
Steadiness at lower shutter speeds; versatility in all focusing modes; lightweight for long working days; and fast. These are all attributes sought by working pros in a tele lens when covering sports, special events as well as wildlife. TIPA editors agreed that this Sony GM class lens ticks all the boxes. Moreover, it has an added special feature of an 11-blade diaphragm for distinctive bokeh effects.
Delivering impressive resolution and sharpness, even with tele-converters, precise image capture is enhanced by fast, reliable and quiet operation. It boasts three optical stabilization modes, including ones for panning as well as fast subject capture. Lightweight, the lens weighs in at 3.2 pounds as well as measures 10.4 inches in length. Consequently, it offers balanced and smooth operation when working handheld or on a tripod when capturing video or stills.
Super-Telephoto Prime: Sigma 500mm f/5.6 DG DN OS | Sports
For many years the thought of using a 500mm lens handheld was unrealistic. However, with optical stabilization and the use of lightweight lens construction materials, new opportunities for sports, event, nature and wildlife photographers have arrived. The= Sigma 500mm f/5.6 DG DN OS | Sports is built from materials such as Thermally Stable Composite and magnesium—a lightweight yet robust and splash-resistant combination.
Furthermore, Sigma’s OS2 algorithm delivers up to 5.0 stops of image stabilization that allows for both working at slower shutter speeds and narrower apertures without busting the ISO budget. There are two stabilization modes in the Intelligent OS: one for normal shooting and the other for panning and sports action. And they work even when the camera is moved vertically or diagonally regardless of horizontal or vertical framing.
Professional Portrait: Nikon Nikkor Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena
It’s rare for Nikon to name a lens. So we looked it up and Plena is defined as “the condition of quality of being full.” If the compliments paid to this lens by photographers from around the world are any indication, the appellation is apt. The lens is aimed at commercial, wedding, portraitists and even landscape and nature photographers. And pro reactions have been overwhelmingly positive worldwide.
In particular, there has been special praise for its edge-to-edge buttery bokeh for stills and cinematic video. That’s thanks to its 11-blade diaphragm; edge-to-edge brightness; and minimization of ghosting, flare as well as fringing. Credit special elements and coatings. Additionally, its customizable control and function buttons are notable for cinemaphotographers who admire its smooth aperture transitions and Nikon’s Multi-System Focus AF technology.
Wide-Angle Zoom: Tamron 17–50mm f/4 Di III VXD
Photographers looking for a lens that excels in both video and still photography will find this full-frame E-mount Tamron lens perfect for their needs. It’s ultrawide to normal zoom range is versatile for travel, landscape and nature shots, as well as videography. Lightweight and compact, it’s great for carrying around. Its close focusing ability enhances creativity, with a distance as short as 7.5 inches at the wide end.
The lens also maintains sharp video quality with its fixed barrel and internal zoom, making it suitable for gimbals. Moreover, its VXD autofocus is quick and silent, ensuring accuracy. Weather resistance also makes it ideal for outdoor use. Additionally, it supports the Tamron Lens Utility for customized settings that are unique to videography, expanding creative options.
Macro Zoom: Sony FE 70–200mm f/4 Macro G OSS II
With a classic focal length, this Sony major update brings all the latest focusing and tracking tech into a shorter and lighter-weight body. Furthermore, this is the first zoom lens in its class to offer half-macro capability throughout the zoom range. And this increases to full macro when used with a 2x teleconverter. Close-focusing capability was also enhanced via a floating focusing element that permits a minimum focusing distance of 10.2 inches at 70mm. Combined with the rounded 9-bladed diaphragm, this makes for beautiful bokeh effects.
For videographers, it has a new direct manual focus feature for quick focus ring adjustments in AF modes. Plus, four XD linear motors support focus tracking while zooming for locked on sharpness, a benefit for still photography as well. Sony’s OSS (Optical SteadyShot) additionally works as a team with the camera body’s stabilization system to aid in challenging lighting scenarios.
Telephoto Zoom: Tamron 70–180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2
The TIPA editors highlight this zoom lens for its complete optical overhaul, marking it as part of Tamron’s new generation that leverages E-mount mirrorless technology. It’s compatible with eye AF, fast hybrid AF as well as AF assist. Further, it has an improved VXD motor. Notably smaller and lighter than its peers, it enhances fieldwork and offers superior close-up performance across all focal lengths. Its linear motor is also quiet and swift for video.
Moreover, Tamron’s VC (vibration compensation) image stabilization ensures sharp shots in various conditions. Special lens elements also reduce aberrations and flare. And via the Tamron Lens Utility, users can customize settings unique to videography or create their own personal settings, making it versatile for both still and video shooting.
Super-Telephoto Zoom: Nikon Nikkor Z 180–600mm f/5.6–6.3 VR
This super-telephoto is specifically designed for nature, wildlife and sports enthusiast photographers. Moreover, the Nikon long-range zoom lens brings it all together in terms of focal length range, fast, responsive autofocus an STM motor for quiet and smooth video capture. It also has weather-sealed construction with a fluorine lens coating that, to quote, “anticipates a high frequency of lens wiping.”
TIPA editors know that in pro offerings, it’s often the small touches that make a big difference in the field. And with this super-tele lens, it’s the ability to adapt 1.4x and 2x teleconverters and maintain lens size when zooming. Further, there is only a 70º turn to zoom out to maximum focal length; 5.5 EV image stabilization; as well as a host of on-lens controls to switch or lock modes and settings.
Hybrid Zoom: Canon RF24–105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z
This Canon RF lens combines features and functions with strong appeal for video and still photographers. Its fast aperture also signals the growing trend of the hybridization of cameras to equally handle both in all manner of light and shooting conditions. Thus, it’s a solution whether for breaking news, weddings and events, or when doing personal projects in the studio or field. In addition, the lens offers minimal focus breathing and electronic par focal performance for videographers. It also provides two types of power zoom adapters as optional accessories. With dual Nano USM motors, focusing is fast and quiet.
Moreover, low-light conditions are no problem due to 5.5 stop in-lens optical image stabilization. Plus, this reaches an amazing 8 stops when using Canon’s Coordinated IS with a compatible camera featuring in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Full-time manual focus for making quick adjustments on the fly is also available via the dedicated aperture ring. Further, with its 11-bladed aperture, out of focus areas are beautifully rendered in portraits and other close-focusing compositions.
BEST PHOTO-IMAGING ACCESSORIES
Best Analog Product: Harman Phoenix 200 Film
The growing interest in analog (film) photography has spurred a new entrant from Harman. Further, the England-based company has years of experience in the monochrome realm. Unlike other color negative films, Phoenix 200 does not have a color mask. Rather, the orange layer is normally part of the color negative look. And in some ways, it resembles a cross-processed chrome color film (slide film processed in color negative soup), with punchy colors, high contrast as well as visible grain.
They do provide parameters for lab and home scanning, and exposure recommendations to temper any “ill” effects. Although, the company considers it an experimental film and that more work needs be done to evolve the product. Yet, unique looks are all part of the analog fun.
Professional Photo Monitor: BenQ PhotoVue SW272U 4K
This BenQ photo-editing monitor boasts excellent color accuracy and hardware calibration. The new professional 27-inch 4K photo monitor pursues the compelling precedent of the company’s renowned SW series. Retaining the main assets of the previous SW321C, it offers a class-leading 99% Adobe RGB and 99% DCI-P3 coverage with 16-bit 3D LUT, BenQ uniformity technology as well as ICCsync.
Further, the fine-coated panel for reflection-free performance results in a simulated texture screen effect that, with Paper Color Sync software, delivers industry-leading screen-to-print results. Thus, it is the ultimate platform for accurate photo editing and reliable soft proofing. Photographers will also appreciate conformity to the Pantone Validated SkinTone and Calman Verified standards. Color management is cleverly implemented by storing color data internally. Moreover, users can easily carry out the calibration with the help of the supplied Palette Master Ultimate software.
Professional Video Monitor: Dell UltraSharp 40 Curved U4025QW
This is a plush, 5K, Thunderbolt 4.0 ultrawide hub monitor with an excellent 40-inch curved panel. The Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW) ticks all the boxes and more. With its 5,120×2,160 resolution, it replaces two side-by-side monitors to make life easier for professional video editors. And what a visual experience! IPS black panel technology combined with a 120Hz high refresh rate, an ambient light sensor and ConfortView Plus emission protection ensure daylong work with minimal eye fatigue.
The rest of the specifications are also top notch. It has abundant interfaces with one upstream and one downstream (140W capable) Thunderbolt 4.0 ports; six USB downstream; HDMI 2.1; DisplayPort 1.4; as well as integrated speakers. And, of course, it is color accurate with 100% sRGB, 99% DCI-P3 99% Display P3 efficiency.
Professional Photo Printer: Epson SureColor P5300/P5360/P5370
With the high-resolution cameras and scanners available today, labs, pro studios, galleries as well as photo artists need a printer that delivers prints that bring out all the color, tone and sharpness of their images. The Epson SureColor P5300 (different model numbers in different regions) offers a 10-channel Micro Piezo printhead armed with Epson Precision Dot Screening technology.
Moreover, it utilizes 10-color Ultrachrome inks in 200ml cartridges. And that includes violet for an extensive range of blues and a wider color gamut. Along with separate ink channels for glossy or matt black, a “carbon black” mode increases D-Max for vivid monochrome renditions on glossy surface paper. The printer comes with a built-in roll feeder for bordered or borderless printing as well as a control panel for easy inputs of paper and ink selections.
Photo Paper: Hahnemühle Baryta Photo Papers
The Hahnemühle inkjet printing paper lineup continues to expand. Additionally, with each new entrant comes newfound creative options. These new papers are in the Baryta family, renowned for their look, feel and richness of surface that matches high-quality silver halide prints. All are in the medium/heavy range (slightly above 300gsm) and work in most quality inkjets without special platen settings.
Bamboo Gloss Baryta, part of the company’s “sustainable” group, is made with 90% bamboo fibers. It’s a warm tone, high-gloss paper that delivers rich contrast and wide tonal range. Photo Rag Matt Baryta delivers vivid colors and deep blacks with sharpness and clarity. In addition, the papermaker optimized the Photo Silk Baryta X paper for inkjet printing with a smooth white look and a silky gloss finish.
Storage Media: Lexar Professional CFexpress 4.0 Type B Diamond Series
Today’s new mirrorless cameras require memory cards with high-speed read and write capabilities. They also require durability to withstand shock and vibration that may come with a sometimes-hectic production pace. Designed for professional use, the Lexar Professional Diamond series now boasts maximum write speed of 3300MB/s.
It also boasts a minimum sustained write speed of 3200MB/s. Harnessing the power of the latest PCIe Gen 4, this card also delivers exceptional performance, accelerating postproduction efficiencies that professionals demand. Furthermore, it supports VPG 400 specifications, meaning it was tested and guaranteed for high-quality video use. It may be the fastest CFexpress 4.0 product currently available on the market.
Professional Portable Flash: Godox V1Pro
Keeping a small yet versatile flash in your kit bag allows for more creative capture. Moreover, it is especially useful for “run and gun” as well as candid, social and street photographers. TIPA editors liked the looks and features of the hot shoe mount V1 Pro. It sports a distinctive round flash head, a detachable front fill-flash module as well as versatile rotation and tilt capabilities.
Furthermore, it is compatible with the Godox wireless radio system and provides fast recycle time. The attractively designed V1Pro also offers 28–105mm lens coverage and a full menu of adjustable outputs, from a wink to full power, with sync up to 1/8000 second. Designed to handle any assignment, the battery can deliver up to 500 full power flashes on a single charge.
LED Light: Godox P600Bi Hard Knowled LED Panel
Studio commercial still and video production environments require a robust light that offers a wide range of effects, color, and intensity output. The AC-powered Knowled P600Bi is a 1-foot square panel. Further, its U-shaped bracket mount can be ganged with two or four units via a Godox accessory. Additionally, a built-in dimmer, used to control the 93,8000 lux/meter, 650 watt light, is settable in 0.1% increments and delivers flicker-free illumination throughout the range.
Being an LED, it also spans the full range of color temperature output, from 2800–6500K. Plus, it incorporates an aerospace-grade Thermal pad for heat dissipation and a cooling fan. Users make settings via the Godox Light app from up to 98 feet away, or with DMX512 control.
Imaging Software–Enthusiast: Skylum Luminar Neo
This latest version builds on Skylum’s award-winning software by incorporating new AI-powered tools. New items include GenErase, GenExpand as well as GenSwap, which, respectively, remove unwanted objects, expand a canvas and replace and then add specific elements into a photo. The company points out that their AI tools are there to serve the photographer’s vision, not replace it.
TIPA editors widely praise this sentiment. Other new features include Neon and Glow, a visually striking manipulation that delivers dramatic nightscapes or adds a glowing, futuristic look to any scene. Further, Tilt/Shift Blur transforms “real” locations into miniature scale model representations. Photographers can use the software as a stand-alone product or Photoshop and Lightroom Classic plug-ins. What’s more, it is now available in an iPad version.
Imaging Software–Professional: DxO PhotoLab 7 Elite
Working with an editing software that can bring out the full potential of RAW files is key to a full realization of an image’s fidelity and a photographer’s expression. Building on the DxO PhotoLab tradition, this latest version adds even more versatility. It has a new color calibrating tool for establishing color profiles; 17 new LUTs (look up tables/image styles); as well as a newly designed color wheel for local hue, saturation and lightness adjustments.
Add to that an enhanced Monochrome Workplace with 6-channel mixer/toner controls. When combined with the latest DxO optics modules, which correct for lens aberrations and distortions, plus DxO’s Deep PRIME for image noise reduction and demosaicing, enthusiast and pro photographers will realize newfound image enhancement potential for their images in an intuitive and attractive workspace.
AI Portrait-Editing Software: Retouch4me AI Plug-ins
Years back, studio portraiture, senior and special event work like weddings often required the hand of a retoucher on the final print. Moreover, all the work was done with airbrush, pigment applied with cotton swabs, or hand coloring pencils and inks. This required training and a deft hand. Additionally, it was quite laborious, for example, when the job covered an entire senior graduating class. The trick was to make someone look better while keeping them recognizable.
Now, Retouch4me offers AI retouching software for skintone enhancement, blemish removal, eye and teeth brightening and even removing age-related wrinkles via an online download store that supplies numerous AI plug-ins for this work, including batch processing jobs. The company promises to save working studios time and money and also offer a “try for free” samples of their various offerings.
Professional Printing App: Hahnemühle App
Printmakers now have an online resource to guide them on Hahnemühle paper choices, ICC profiles, paper characteristics and optimal image to paper matches. Plus, this app opens the door to a worldwide community of fellow artists and technical contacts that will enhance creative endeavors. Hahnemühle’s downloadable Pro App 2.0 provides access to customer support. It offers the ability to upload images with a query, a full library of articles and tutorials on papers and printmaking guides. Moreover, it accesses the company’s blog. The app also serves as a gateway to the Hahnemühle Excellence Program, where registrants are listed as a Hahnemühle Certified Studio. Additionally, it links to exhibit in an online gallery via the company’s My Art Registry. Fellow artists and curators from around the world view this prestigious showcase.
Consumer Photo Print App: Pixum App
The Pixum app makes it exceptionally easy for consumers to create and order high- quality photo products. It also enables the direct transformation of mobile photos into physical memories. The portfolio includes customizable photo books, stunning wall art, premium photo prints and personalized photo calendars. Consumers an order these and other photo products and customize them right from a smartphone, whether at home or on the go.
The user-friendly interface of the Pixum app allows effortless navigation and editing options. With just a few taps, you can enhance your images, add captions as well as choose from various design templates. Bringing smartphone photos to life has never been more fun.
BEST PHOTOFINISHING SERVICES
Photo Lab: WhiteWall UltraHD Sharpening
WhiteWall is expanding its extensive range of gallery-quality photofinishing products with UltraHD sharpening for black-and-white prints. This sharpening option, often under- or unused as a final step before printing, is available for three Ilford photo papers: glossy, matte and true baryta. In addition, it brings every detail and nuance of black-and-white images to life.
Each image sharpening level is precisely matched to the output process used in combination with the increased production resolution. This guarantees results that maintain and improve tonal range and detail and are absolutely free of color casts. Customized formats up to 240x122cm are available with numerous options for finishing, framing and hanging.
Photo Book: Fomanu Layflat Fotobuch
There are collections of images that deserve special treatment—commemorative albums, weddings and anniversaries, or a shared memorable trip or voyage. These Fomanu Layflat Pro Photo Books from Fotobuch.de are perfect for treasured treatments. They are limited from 6 to 24 pages, due to the special bonding process of pages with extra strong inserts in between.
Moreover, each unique book cover offers a choice of designs using graphics, text and photos. They also feature red, white or black backgrounds with UV printing or embossing. Interior pages are printed on Phothentic Brilliant silk or Hyper-Gloss papers and are available in 21×12 or 8-1/4 or 12-inch square sizes. The company takes special care in printing by utilizing an UltraHD process that doubles print resolution and delivers exceptional sharpness.
Photo Service: CEWE Freeform Stickers
The CEWE Freeform Sticker redefines the possibilities of personalization and instant printing. It places motifs on high-quality, smooth, glossy photo paper with a printing area of 3.5×5.5 inches. Whether adorning gadgets or crafting unique gifts, they inspire individual expression.
Consumers select photo motifs in the preferred format. The motif is cut out along its contour, giving the sticker a unique shape. Consumers can also enhance them with clip art, text, lettering or emojis for more individuality. Printing is hassle-free. Customers need only a PNG-format photo or a smartphone capable of object separation. With options for single or mixed images, users can create bespoke stickers effortlessly. Available at CEWE Photostations, this innovation makes personalization fun and accessible for all.
