Haslemere, UK—EISA, the Expert Imaging and Sound Association (eisa.eu), an organization representing 60 well-respected publications and websites, announced the EISA Awards 2022 winners.
The 2022-2023 awards cover six categories: Photography; Hi-Fi; Home Theater Audio; Home Theater Display & Video; In-Car Electronics; as well as Mobile Devices. Every year, EISA’s Expert Group members test a wide range of new products from their fields of expertise. They then compare results before voting to decide on the top product in each product category.
Moreover, to win an EISA award, all products undergo a comprehensive multistep judging process. This year, EISA’s annual convention in Antwerp in May and awards meeting in June were cancelled due to the pandemic and travel chaos. However, the association’s product testing was not diminished.
EISA hosted 50+ webinars throughout the spring that put new technologies and brands in front of its expert editorial audience. Combined with regular video conferences for the Expert Groups, and the shipment of products between member countries, judging extended over many months.
Following are the winning products in the Photography category, as well as what EISA’s Expert Group said about them. The category was led by the Nikon Z 9 as Camera of the Year.
EISA Awards 2022 Photography Winners
EISA Camera of the Year 2022–2023: Nikon Z 9
The Nikon Z 9 is the most advanced, capable camera on the market. Its stacked 45.7-megapixel, full-frame CMOS sensor and fast Expeed 7 processor deliver outstanding image quality and high shooting speeds up to 30 frames per sec (JPEG) and 20 fps in RAW, full resolution.
Furthermore, a fast autofocus (AF) system with Nikon’s Advanced 3D-tracking locks onto moving subjects effortlessly. For video shooters, the Z 9 offers a range of resolutions and frame rates, up to 12-bit RAW 8K/60 internally. With its dual-grip form factor and sturdy build, the Z 9 is a groundbreaking and powerful tool.
Micro Four Thirds Camera 2022–2023: OM System OM-1
Micro Four Thirds cameras have taken a great leap forward with the new flagship from OM Digital Solutions. This powerful camera is built like a tank, with an IP53 rating for dust and splash proofing. It has a newly developed 20MP BSI (backside-illuminated) CMOS sensor that provides Quad Pixel AF. It also offers a fast, precise AI-assisted autofocus system that tracks wildlife and fast-moving subjects at 50 fps.
The OM System OM-1 also employs computational photography to enable advanced handheld long exposures. Moreover, it boasts impressive in-body image stabilization, while also providing 4K DCI movie recording.
APS-C Camera 2022–2023: Canon EOS R7
The EOS R7 is a powerful yet affordable camera built around a 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor with Canon’s highly responsive Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with excellent subject detection capabilities. The camera can shoot at 15 fps using its mechanical shutter and up to 30 fps with the electronic shutter.
Moreover, for working in low light, it includes 5-axis in-body image stabilization that offers 7 stops of shake correction. Photos and movies are recorded onto dual UHS-II SD memory card slots. Video is captured in 4K resolution (downsampled from 7K) with no time limit.
Full-Frame Camera 2022–2023: Sony Alpha 7 IV
This full-frameSony mirrorless camera features significant improvements over its predecessor in almost all areas. It uses a new 33MP back-illuminated CMOS Exmor R sensor and the latest Bionz XR processor. They ensure brilliant image quality. Moreover, its articulating touchscreen makes it easier to work with, especially for filmmakers and vloggers. Continuous shooting mode enables long bursts at 10 fps.
In addition, fast, reliable autofocus with real-time tracking detects the eyes of people, animals and birds. In terms of video, the Alpha 7 IV shoots 4K UHD 30p from the full width of the sensor, or 4K/60p recording in Super 35mm mode. It also offers various codecs, as well as creative look and picture profiles, including S-Cinetone for a rich cinematic look.
Best Buy Camera 2022–2023: Fujifilm X-T30 II
For photographers who’d like to buy a capable camera at an attractively low price, Fujifilm’s X-T30 II is a standout. It delivers the same great image quality as Fujifilm’s more expensive models, with particularly attractive JPEG color rendition. The compact, lightweight metal body also offers a good array of external manual controls.
Moreover, it brings some welcome upgrades over the original X-T30, including a higher resolution screen; an updated AF system; and separate settings and menus for stills and video shooting. Most importantly, it’s a pleasure to shoot with and delivers excellent results.
Professional Camera 2022–2023: Canon EOS R3
The Canon EOS R3 is a truly professional tool for still photography and video; its layout is also familiar from previous EOS cameras, both analog and digital. It employs a 24MP stacked CMOS full-frame sensor with Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system. And it can shoot at up to 30 fps.
In addition, users can choose between three different methods to determine where to focus: using a joystick, a touch button or eye control AF—a function that tracks the movements of the photographer’s eye. The camera also records video in 6K/60p and 4K/120p. Moreover, it’s tailor-made for professional use at news and sport events.
Vlogging Camera 2022–2023: Sony Alpha ZV-E10
Just like the Sony ZV-1 point-and-shoot vlog camera that won an EISA two years ago, the ZV-E10 is designed for content creators. However, it has the added benefit of using interchangeable lenses. It’s an excellent camera for both photos and video, offering fast, accurate autofocus. This is complemented by real-time eye AF.
Its vari-angle LCD monitor is also a great help in photo and video modes, including selfies. Furthermore, in video mode, the high-quality microphone with its included wind screen ensures crystal-clear audio. In addition, the ZV-E10 vlog camera supports the latest video technology, from 4K to livestreaming. Numerous features also make creating and sharing vlogs easy.
Photo/Video Camera 2022–2023: Panasonic Lumix DC-GH6
The Lumix DC-GH6 delivers impressive still life photos from its new 25.2MP CMOS sensor. However, the real joy of this camera lies in creating compelling multimedia content. While the camera is compact for its features, it also sports extremely user-friendly ergonomics, with separate video and stills controls.
Its best-in-class video creation tools include 10-bit 5.7K/60p shooting using the full sensor width, and 5.8K anamorphic recording in full 4:3 format. Unlimited recording times; dual output gain; V-Log; and internal ProRes storage are just a few of the features that make the Lumix GH6 the best Photo/Video camera.
EISA Lens of the Year 2022: Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II
This fast Sony standard zoom for full-frame cameras is for photographers and filmmakers alike. It offers very high image quality with beautiful bokeh, along with four fast, reliably controlled XD linear motors for autofocus.
The second-generation G Master lens also impresses with its reduced size and weight, while gaining extra features compared to its predecessor. In addition to an aperture ring that users can set to stepless control, it also has a zoom smoothness switch that lets photographers select between loose and tight. Moreover, two adjustable focus hold buttons provide convenient control.
Macro Lens 2022–2023: Nikon Nikkor Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S
This is a nearly perfect macro lens. With a completely new optical design, it is significantly sharper than its F-mount counterpart. The performance is already excellent at maximum aperture; distortion is absent; and vignetting is almost unnoticeable. Focusing is fast thanks to dual STM autofocus motors that move two groups of lenses. In addition, 4.5 stops of vibration reduction make it easier to shoot handheld.
The Nikon lens offers an 11-inch short minimum focusing distance. It also includes a limiter switch to reduce the working range to a maximum of 20 inches. Finally, the lens is weather sealed.
Manual Lens 2022–2023: Venus Optics Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO
This manual Venus Optics macro lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras complements a range that already includes eight specialized macro lenses. It distinguishes itself with its 2:1 reproduction ratio, enabling the capture of tiny details. Users will also appreciate the large f/2.8 aperture; the all-metal barrel construction; as well as the smooth manual focusing ring.
Sharpness is good, and the apochromatic optical formula limits chromatic aberrations. With a compact design and light weight, this lens is a companion to take outside and explore nature’s smallest details.
Photo/Video Wide-Angle Zoom Lens 2022–2023: Sony FE PZ 16–35mm f/4 G
Sony’s latest wide-angle zoom employs a powered zoom mechanism driven by XD linear motors for extremely fine, accurate control. This makes it an attractive option for videographers who wish to make smooth, precise zooms during recording. They will also appreciate that there’s no change in angle of view while focusing, nor any drift in focus on zooming.
Its compact, lightweight, weather-resistant design and high-quality optics also make it a fine option for landscape photographers who travel light. Both photographers and videographers also benefit from the lens’s extensive controls, including a dedicated aperture ring.
Photo/Video Zoom Lens 2022–2023: Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Summilux 25–50mm f/1.7 Asph
This Leica-branded ultrafast Panasonic zoom matches the performance of most prime lenses in its focal length range. A normal-to-short-telephoto zoom, it is a documentary and travel lens for still photography as well as video creation. It is tack sharp at all focal lengths and apertures, and it also corrects against optical aberrations.
In addition, it perfectly complements the Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10–25mm f/1.7 Asph wide-angle to normal zoom. Intuitive manual aperture and focus control rings round off the features of this unique photo/video zoom lens.
Professional Telephoto Lens 2022–2023: Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S
A 400mm f/2.8 lens is the industry standard for sports photography and is often used with a teleconverter. Nikon‘s Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is the first of its type to sport a built-in 1.4x teleconverter.
What’s more, it is activated using a conveniently located switch. As a result, photographers can quickly increase the focal length to 560mm. Despite this, the lens is 20% lighter than its F-mount predecessor. The versatile telephoto lens also offers a high build quality, quick autofocus and excellent optical performance.
Standard Lens 2022–2023: Fujifilm Fujinon XF33mm f/1.4 R LM WR
With this bright normal lens for the APS-C X system, Fujifilm offers a lens with no real weak spots. Its bright aperture allows for supersharp photos and video in all lighting. Plus, digital in-camera processing corrects residual aberrations. A 9-blade aperture helps to deliver perfect bokeh.
Further, a quick, silent linear autofocus motor and absence of focus breathing make the lens suitable for video. It also features a locking manual aperture ring and comprehensive weather sealing.
Standard Zoom Lens 2022–2023: Tamron 28–75mm f/2.8 DI III VXD G2
The image quality of Tamron’s previous 28–75mm standard zoom lens for the E mount was already very high. However, the new 28–75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is even better. The optical construction was fundamentally revised, including a new antireflection coating that further reduces flare and ghosting.
Compared to its predecessor, the autofocus is twice as fast thanks to Tamron’s VXD linear motor. Moreover, the minimum focusing distance is now just 7 inches at the 28mm focal length, giving a magnification of 1:2.7. In addition, the ergonomics were improved, and the lens is customizable using Tamron Lens Utility software.
Superzoom Lens 2022–2023: Sigma 150–600mm f/5–6.3 DG DN OS | Sport
Sigma’s ultra-telephoto zoom for full-frame mirrorless cameras with L-mount or E-mount fittings offers a focal length range ideal for shooting wildlife, sports as well as action. In addition, the minimum focus distance provides a maximum magnification of 1:2.8 for close-up photography. For outdoor use, the lens is environmentally sealed, and the front element has a water- and oil-repellent coating.
The optical system also contains special elements and coatings to correct chromatic aberration and flare. Further, a built-in optical stabilizer achieves 4 stops of shake reduction. The optical quality is stunningly good, even at full aperture.
Telephoto Lens 2022–2023: Nikon Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S
Ultra-telephoto lenses are usually associated with enormous size, heavy weight as well as a hefty price. Nikon’s new 800mm telephoto lens is therefore a pleasant surprise. It boasts compact dimensions, low weight as well as an affordable price tag. Nikon achieved this using a Phase Fresnel element, which greatly reduced the lens’s length.
In addition, several lens elements are positioned to shift the center of gravity close to the body, for handheld shooting. Despite its reduced size, it still provides excellent image quality, ensuring this new telephoto will be popular among wildlife photographers.
Telephoto Zoom Lens 2022–2023: Sony FE 70–200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II
This fast telephoto zoom lens is a complete redesign of Sony’s first FE 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master. The new optical design provides corner-to-corner sharpness throughout the zoom range. The AF system is built around two pairs of XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors driving two focus groups. Consequently, it achieves faster focusing and improved focus tracking.
Video shooters will appreciate the aperture ring they can operate in clicked or clickless mode, as well as reduced focus breathing and focus shift. Despite all these improvements, the lens is nearly a third lighter than its predecessor.
Travel Zoom Lens 2022–2023: Tamron 18–300mm f/3.5–6.3 DI III-A VC VXD
This is a fantastic Tamron lens for users of Fujifilm and Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras who want to travel without a bag full of lenses. The wide zoom range, equivalent to 27–450mm in full-frame terms, provides the ability to take photos and record movies in all situations, from landscapes to distant details or wildlife.
Furthermore, the effective vibration compensation mechanism helps take sharp photos in low light. With a 6-inch minimum focus distance at the 18mm wide end and with high magnification (1:2), this lens is also useful for close-up photography.
Wide-Angle Lens 2022–2023: Sigma 20mm f/2 DG DN | Contemporary
Sigma’s wide-angle lens for full-frame L- and E-mount mirrorless cameras offers high quality at an affordable price. Despite the large f/2 maximum aperture, it is compact. Part of Sigma’s i series, the lens is very solidly constructed. It has an aluminum barrel, and the mount is sealed against dust and moisture.
It also includes a traditional and practical aperture ring that users can set to an automatic position. Moreover, special FLD and SLD glass elements and a super multilayer coating ensure high image quality. Effective correction of sagittal coma provides sharpness even at the edges—extremely useful when taking pictures of the night sky.
Zoom Lens 2022–2023: Tamron 35–150mm f/2–2.8 DI III VXD
Tamron developed a unique, fast all-round lens for E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. It offers outstanding optical quality and an extended zoom range. Thanks to its large aperture throughout the zoom range, it can potentially replace several prime lenses. A VXD focusing motor operates very quickly and with striking accuracy; it also works with the eye AF in Sony cameras.
Further, the optical design and latest coating offer outstanding sharpness and contrast. It’s a remarkable lens for location portraits and documentary photography but also serves perfectly as a studio workhorse. Finally, a connector port and Tamron Lens Utility software enable users to customize functions or update firmware.
Multimedia Smartphone 2022–2023: Sony Xperia 1 IV
Sony’s multitalented smartphone impresses from the outset. That’s thanks to its modern, sleek design and the robust glass finish of its rear side. However, it’s what users are getting from the inside that’s more attractive. The Xperia 1 IV features the first-ever continuous optical zoom camera system on a smartphone.
It boasts an 85–125mm range on the telephoto camera and advanced 120-fps readout sensors on all lenses. Combined with the 24mm wide lens, 16mm ultrawide lens and 3D iTOF, Sony set a new standard for professional shooting, either with photography or 4K HDR 120-fps video recording. A Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and 5000mAh battery round out the specs.
