June is the official beginning of summer, and the month we honor our dads, granddads and grads. Why not do so with great imaging gear and gadgets that will take their content creation up a level?
Our editors have been hard at work selecting recently released photo-imaging equipment that will appeal to a wide range of creators—whether adventurers, avid travelers and vacationers, or podcasters and vloggers! There is something here for everyone! And while the category is vast and growing every day, our picks aptly represent gear in their given segment.
Imaging Gear and Gadgets for Gifting
Canon EOS R100
We start with the entry-level Canon EOS R100 mirrorless camera. Canon’s most affordable, compact and lightweight camera, the EOS R100 is aimed at first-time mirrorless camera users. It’s equally appealing to existing interchangeable-lens camera (ILC) photographers who used EOS Rebel or EOS M cameras.
While entry level, it touts a 24.2MP (megapixel) APS-C-size sensor and a Digic 8 image processor. As a result, it offers 4K (cropped) and Full HD (full-width) video at up to 24 and 60 frames per second (fps), respectively. HD movies are also recorded at 120 fps for smooth, slow-motion playback. And featuring autofocus with eye and face detection, as well as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, the EOS R100 gives first-time ILC users a significant advantage over a smartphone camera. Notably, this includes lens selection.
With a significantly larger sensor size than many smartphones, the R100 also captures images with natural bokeh for beautiful background blur, true color and low noise—even in low light. Consequently, it will take images at fast shutter speeds to minimize capture shake and subject blur.
Additionally, you can capture can’t-miss moments at 6.5-shots-per-sec when set to one-shot AF. Plus, creative assist functions let dads and grads take on the challenge of image creation while in auto mode. That’s because they can change settings such as background blur, brightness and saturation in real time on the live viewfinder.
The R100 also has a 0.39-inch OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36-million dots that displays a bright image and shooting information. Another viewing option is its 3-inch, 1.04M-dot color LCD monitor. Plus, Bluetooth connects it to a smartphone for remote control of the camera. It also continuously updates GPS location data from the phone for geotagging. And Wi-Fi provides remote live view, file viewing and content transfer. $379.99 body only.
Røde PodMic USB Microphone
The portable Røde PodMic USB mic is the perfect gift for podcasters, livestreamers and content creators of all types. The mic provides both XLR and USB connectivity, plus a host of next-generation features for capturing professional sound.
Moreover, the broadcast-grade dynamic microphone uses a high-power neodymium capsule for warm, detailed audio capture. Plus, content creators can use it for a variety of applications. Its XLR and USB outputs allows them to connect the mic to a mixer, console or audio interface. It will function just like a classic broadcast microphone, or plug it into a computer for plug-and-play recording. Further, the option to record via XLR or USB makes the mic ideal for entry-level creators as well as seasoned pros.
The microphone is compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices for a studio-quality portable recording solution. This means it’s an option for everything from creating content in a home studio or a professional broadcast studio to making recordings on a phone or tablet literally anywhere.
Additionally, for pro sound, the mic’s high-power neodymium capsule delivers detailed audio optimized for speech. It has a balanced sound signature meant to flatter all voice types. And a built-in pop filter helps manage plosives, for cleaner capture. Its circuitry was also enhanced to deliver a flatter frequency response and lower self-noise. Plus, its tight cardioid polar pattern helps ensure a focused sound with rejection of background noise from room reflections, as well as keyboard and mouse clicks.
The all-metal PodMic USB sports a black finish with a matching black grille. Its industrial design is compact as well as low-profile, allowing an unobscured shot when streaming or vlogging. And an integrated swing mount enables flexible positioning. $199.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 99 Instant Camera
Do you have analog fans on your gift list? Fujifilm’s Instax Mini 99 instant camera sports a stylish matte black finish and the Instax aesthetic. However, Fujifilm incorporated advanced image features, including color, brightness and focus modes. Low tech meets high tech!
The camera’s color effect dial provides six fun effects: faded green, warm tone, light blue, soft magenta, sepia and light leak. Driven by LED lights within the camera, this function exposes the chosen color onto Instax Mini film, creating the effect on the print. Also new is a brightness control dial with five selections. The light (“L+”) setting indicates the brightest exposure. The “L”, “D” and “N” settings give the normal range of brightness. Finally, the dark (“D-”) setting represents the darkest brightness level.
Fujifilm also integrated shooting modes. Indoor mode is for low-light situations. Sports mode increases the shutter speed to grab action shots. Double exposure mode combines two images into one. Plus, bulb mode increases the amount of light let in when creating the image to produce a brightened effect on the print.
What’s more, use the new vignette switch on the lens housing to add an artistic shaded frame around the subject. Also, the Mini 99’s flash controls include auto, fill-in, red-eye removal and flash off. Additionally, landscape, normal/portrait and macro focus modes are accessible via the lens dial. Landscape mode focuses on subjects at a distance reference of 9.8 feet and beyond. Macro is for close-ups and selfies from 1–2 feet. Or select standard mode for everything in between.
Further, the Mini 99 has a base grip with a tripod mount. The instant camera also works with the updated Instax Up! smartphone app for digitally scanning, importing, organizing and storing photos in one place. $199.95.
Nikon CoolShot 20i GIII & 20 GIII Golf Laser Rangefinders
And for the golfers . . . the latest models in Nikon’s series of laser rangefinders, the CoolShot 20i GIII and 20 GIII are small in size but big on features. They will give any golfer on your gift list confidence on the course with their clear, bright field of view, amazing accuracy, plus the reassurance of Nikon’s Locked On Quake technology.
The Locked On Quake function provides tactile confirmation to notify users that the distance to the flagstick was measured with a brief vibration. First Target Priority confirms the distance to the closest subject, assuring a measurement on the pin even with trees in the background. Furthermore, thanks to a multilayer coating, the view from the 6x monocular is bright and clear, with a comfortable 16.7mm eye relief that even gives eyeglass wearers easy viewing. Additionally, both models are IPX4 rated for rainproof performance.
The CoolShot 20i GIII offers two measurement display modes: a golf mode (slope-adjusted distance and actual distance) and an actual distance mode. Switching modes is simple—a single press of the mode button.
Other key features include a compact, lightweight body weighing 4.6 ounces; a measurement range of 6-800 yards; as well as ID (incline/decline) technology. This tech displays a guide distance showing how far you should hit the ball on an uphill/downhill shot (CoolShot 20i GIII).
What’s more, the First Target Priority algorithm will display the distance to the closest subject when measuring overlapping subjects. And the rangefinders provide single or continuous measurement of up to 8 seconds. If single measurement fails, they’ll automatically extend the measurement until succeeding for up to 4 seconds. Plus, keeping the power button depressed enables continuous measurement for up to 8 seconds! The CoolShot 20i GIII and 20 GIII retail for $239.95 and $199.95, respectively.
Benro CyanBird Carbon/Aluminum Hybrid Tripod
A compact, all-in-one tripod collection for photo, video and content creation out and about, Benro CyanBird tripods don an eye-catching ocean blue finish. The collection is available in aluminum, carbon fiber or both. The carbon fiber and aluminum tripod versions come with the FS20ProC hybrid photo and video head. The hybrid (carbon fiber/aluminum) tripod, our selection here, includes the NOOP photo head.
Lightweight for travel, the CyanBird tripod extends to more than 60 inches high yet folds down to 17.1 inches to fit in backpacks and camera bags. In addition, it features a compact flat leg design for easy stowing. Moreover, three-angle adjustable leg stops let you lock each leg at different angles for use in challenging locations. Aluminum flip locks also enable fast setup. What’s more, the tripod has a two-section column head that you can split to get super-low camera angles or use the top section’s three ¼-20 treads to attach accessories.
Benro’s CyanBird carbon/aluminum hybrid tripod sports the line’s ocean blue finish and carbon fiber as well as aluminum construction. The tripod also extends to 61 inches and folds to 17.1 inches. It weighs in at 2.3 pounds. With all the key features of the other two CyanBird tripods, the hybrid kit includes the NOOP photo head, a double action ball head with a lock knob for easy operation and a ball lock and pan lock for positioning. The head also features a 90º notch for vertical shooting and a camera plate with a 3-way screw for attachment. The NOOP photo head offers a max payload capacity of 8.8 pounds. A bubble level is also integrated.
Moreover, the tripod’s included padded carry case has an open-faced design when unfolded, for easy access to the tripod and other gear. $189.95.
Insta360 GO 3 Action Camera
Tiny but mighty, the Insta360 GO 3 builds on its predecessor’s ultra-portability. However, it adds a flip-screen Action Pod accessory and longer battery life. Smaller than thumb size, the camera weighs just 1.2 ounces. Moreover, its magnetic body lets you mount it anywhere, to capture shots from creative angles.
Further, Insta360’s new Action Pod is an all-in-one hub that’s a housing, remote control and charger for the GO 3. With a 2.2-inch flip touchscreen, the companion device connects via Bluetooth. Additionally, it allows the framing of difficult angles. Using the Action Pod’s touchscreen, you can control the camera remotely and preview shots even when the GO 3 is mounted in hard-to-reach locations. And when the Hub acts as a power source, it enables 170 minutes of shooting.
Insta360 made recording as simple as pressing the front of the GO 3’s body, thanks to QuickCapture. Plus, the camera’s lightweight, low-profile design means it’s easy to take on a day’s outing. And the camera now captures any perspective in 2.7K—perfect for social media.
Furthermore, its magnetic accessories help unlock creative potential. First, its circular magnet is worn around the neck, beneath clothing. So you can wear the GO 3 for PoV filming. Second, its “easy clip” accessory clips to hats, holding the camera above the head for a hands-free, high-angle shot. Third, a pivot stand with a reusable sticky mount has an adjustable design for shooting tricky angles. The stand integrates a ¼-inch mounting point for attaching a selfie stick or tripod.
Moreover, the GO 3’s dual microphones offer clearer audio than its predecessor. Voice Control 2.0 also comes with the upgrade, for hands-free operation. New recording modes are also provided: prerecording, loop recording and timed capture. The camera comes in three storage options: 32GB, $379.99.
Lume Cube Mobile Creator Kit 2.0
Here’s a great gift for mobile content creators on your list. Lume Cube’s Mobile Creator Kit 2.0 is a portable, all-in-one kit for creating content in nearly any environment. The kit includes a compact smartphone tripod that telescopes to 55 inches; a Bluetooth remote that pairs with a smartphone; a phone clip with multiple cold shoe mounts; a smartphone microphone; a mobile creator light; and a travel bag.
At the center of the kit is an adjustable tripod for hands-free filming. You can adjust the tripod from 10 to 55 inches. In addition, Lume Cube includes a Bluetooth shutter remote so you can start or stop filming from a distance. Moreover, it can mount directly into the tripod.
Lume Cube also designed the kit as a collapsible solution for anywhere, anytime content creation. The entire kit fits in a backpack for in-the-field creation. Furthermore, it’s compatible with all smartphones via its universal phone mount. What’s more, the bundled microphone comes with adapters for both iPhone Lightning ports and 3mm aux (no USB-C cable included).
The complete kit includes the adjustable-height Mobile Creator tripod; a Bluetooth remote to control your smartphone camera from a distance; a Lume Cube Creator light with adjustable color and brightness; a Lume Cube mic for smartphones; a rotation smartphone mount; a charging cable; as well as the zippered travel case. The kit has a suggested retail price of $199.99.
OM System Tough TG-7 Outdoor Point & Shoot
Geared for the adventurer on your list, the OM System TG-7 is a rugged camera featuring dustproof, shockproof capabilities along with underwater modes. It’s shockproof enough to endure 6.9-foot falls as well as resist 220 pound-force. Natively, it shoots down to 49 feet under water. Plus, it’s functional in freezing temperatures down to 14°F. You can also use the optional PT-059 underwater housing to shoot at depths of 148 feet.
Sealed construction throughout is complemented by a dual-lock mechanism on crucial openings. It also boasts a protective glass on the lens for antifogging. Plus, adventure photographers will appreciate its nonslip grip.
Moreover, a handy field sensor system automatically acquires location (latitude/longitude) and environmental data. This includes temperature, water temperature, altitude (water depth) and shooting direction. With Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, you can load this information into the OM Image Share app to display traveled routes in images.
Beyond its Tough features, the TG-7 has a 12.7MP CMOS sensor and a 4x optical zoom, 25–100mm-equivalent f/2.0 lens. The aperture enables fast shutter speeds and reduced blur. And the TG-7 supports RAW recording with in-camera processing. It also records 4K vertical videos that are easy to post on social media without using editing software.
Further, a variable macro system has 0.4-inch close-up capability and a 7x (equivalent) max magnification. It supports microscope mode, microscope control mode, focus-stacking mode and focus-bracketing mode. Additionally, the rear 3-inch, 1.04M-dot LCD monitor magnifies subjects up to 44x.
Of course, the camera has five underwater shooting modes. They are underwater wide, underwater snapshot, underwater macro, underwater microscope as well as underwater HDR. Another terrific feature is pro capture mode, for capturing shots difficult to time, like flying birds. It records 0.5 sec before the full shutter press and continues sequentially at 10 fps. $549.99.
Sony ECM-M1 Compact Shotgun Microphone
Sony dubs its ECM-M1 the “world’s first shotgun microphone with eight dial-selectable audio recording models.” The mic features four microphone capsules, beamforming and advanced digital processing technology, as well as varied modes, including stereo.
Moreover, its ultra-directional mode captures targeted sound from the front (within a 30º width) while suppressing other sounds. It also adapts to ambient sound. This mode is ideal for selfie-oriented scenarios and interviews where the subject is in front of the mic.
Additionally, a new mode dial with a locking mechanism helps ensure secure switching of sound pickup modes. The ECM-M1 also features noise-reduction utilities. They include a noise cut filter for reducing background noise as well as a low-cut filter for minimizing vibration and low frequency noise. The filters are implemented through digital signal processing, to maximize audio quality at the recording stage and reduce complex post-processing.
The mic also supports 4-channel recording (compatible cameras) for recording in omnidirectional mode on channels 3 and 4, while channels 1 and 2 focus on selected directivity. Plus, it has a frequency response of 40–20 000 Hz.
Compact and lightweight, the ECM-M1 microphone weighs 2.3 ounces. You can clip it into a camera’s multi-interface shoe for direct power and audio connections without extra cables or batteries. What’s more, when connected via the multi-interface shoe of a camera with a built-in digital audio interface, the audio signal is directly transferred to the camera in digital form. As a result, degradation is avoided. Plus, one switch provides support for a range of cameras using an analog interface. $349.99.
GoPro Hero12 Black Action Camera
We couldn’t leave out the new GoPro flagship: the Hero12 Black. With GoPro performance and portability, it has an enhanced feature set. It enables 2x longer run times via its redesigned power management system. It also offers high dynamic range (HDR) video in 5.3K and 4K resolution.
Adding to its capabilities is the Max Lens Mod 2.0 accessory with a wide 177° field of view at 4K/60p. Moreover, the Max Lens Mod 2.0 captures video and photos in three field-of-view settings: Max Wide, Max SuperView and the hyper-immersive Max HyperView. As a result, it leverages the action cam’s extra-large 8:7 sensor to enable perspectives 36% wider when capturing widescreen video and 48% taller when capturing vertical video (compared to the standard lens).
The action camera features new, pro-minded capabilities that also benefit casual users. For instance, it offers wireless audio support for Apple AirPods and other Bluetooth audio devices like earbuds, headphones and microphones. This makes it a great option for vlogging and scene narration. Plus, it permits voice commands to control the camera from a distance.
Foremost in its upgrades is improved power management that delivers 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K/60p; 95+ minutes at 5.3K/30p; and 155 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p/30. All record with HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization. You can also grab 24.7MP frame grabs and 27MP photos. And the camera captures 4K video at 120 fps for 4x slo-mo.
More Upgrades
Plus, the new vertical capture mode records vertical 9:16 aspect ratio 4K video while the camera is mounted horizontally. This allows you to share straight to vertically oriented social channels. Another cool feature is video stabilization with 360° horizon lock. Also new is GP-Log with available LUTs for more control and color grading in postproduction. Plus, it now provides wireless timecode sync with an unlimited number of Hero12 Black cameras for easier multi-camera editing with Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premier and other editing apps.
Additionally, it has an updated user interface. There are “easy controls” for users looking for convenience as well as streamlined “pro controls” for users wanting maximum control. And its 1/1.9-inch sensor achieves an 8:7 aspect ratio that crops into vertical 9:16, widescreen 16:9, traditional 4:3 or full-frame 8:7 aspect ratios.
The Hero12 Black’s mounting fingers now feature 1/4-20″ mounting threads, making it compatible with standard camera mounts and accessories. Of course, the camera is still “GoPro tough” and waterproof to 33 feet with no housing required. $399.99.
PNY Elite-X Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 1 Flash Drives
Who doesn’t need more storage? The new PNY Elite-X Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 1 flash drives are for Type-C devices. The Elite-X Type-C thumb drive is small in size; however, it boasts up to 256GB of storage as well as 200MB/s read speeds and 100MB/s write speeds. PNY built the Elite-X Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 1 drive to enable users to transfer photos, videos, music and other files quickly and easily. Further, the new drive helps ensure you always have access to important files.
The drive’s slender casing is tailored to fit Type-C ports without the need for an adapter. PNY designed the narrow housing to allow the drive’s use alongside other ports, taking up minimal space and leaving ports accessible for other needs. Moreover, an included sliding cover protects the Type-C connector when not in use to prevent valuable data from damage or loss.
In addition, the Elite-X Type-C drive provides a broad range of compatibility between devices. Thus, it is a solution for freeing up space and transferring content between various USB Type-C devices. It’s compatible with Type-C devices such as smartphones and tablets as well as PC/Mac laptops and desktop computers.
With a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C interface, the drive is available in 64-gigabyte (GB), 128GB and 256GB capacities. Measuring 2.3×0.5×0.3 inches, the PNY Elite-X Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 1 flash drives are available at the following suggested retail prices: 64GB, $10.99; 128GB, $13.99; 256GB, $24.99.
ProMaster Blue Ridge Camera Bags
To gather all dad’s gear in one stylish bag, how about a ProMaster Blue Ridge bag in the new mottled green colorway? With the same contemporary design, the new color joins the original deep blue. ProMaster designed the shoulder bags for versatility. Thus, they’re a solution for carrying gear from town to the trails. And with four different sizes, they fit everything from a point-and-shoot camera to a full-size mirrorless setup with additional lenses.
Additionally, ProMaster makes the bags with durable 600D fabric, metal hardware and silver accent stitching. The outer fabric is water resistant, and a full rain cover is also included. What’s more, two removable straps offer options. You can use the adjustable shoulder strap with a sliding pad to wear the bag crossbody or carry it with the top handle.
The bags also have a light gray interior to help locate items quickly. The main compartment is customizable using movable, padded dividers. The pocket behind the main camera department can store a tablet or other flat items. Plus, the separate, zippered front compartment has pockets to organize smaller items. Stretchy, breathable mesh side pockets on the outside also let you stash items without opening the bag.
For quick access, there’s a fast-action magnetic Fidlock latch. Open the bag with just a flick of the wrist and grab what you need. The Fidlock latch lets gear stay safely stored in the main compartment while still within reach. Slide it sideways with one hand to open or lay the top portion of the latch over the bottom and it snaps closed.
Blue Ridge shoulder bags come in four sizes: 1.8L; 3.1L; 4.6L; as well as 5.8L, with SRPs of $54.95; $64.95, $74.95 and $84.95, respectively.
