Often, people ask what tools we use and recommend. Here is a list of hardware, software, and services that we use and stand by wholeheartedly.
If you have had complaints about any of these listed items, I would be happy to hear them and inform my opinion of them.
In the meantime, I hope that this offers you a starting point in the search for your ultimate set of photographic gear.
Please note that some links may be to affiliate programs while others may not. Either way, we only support products that we believe in.
We link to affiliate programs from which we receive a commission, this does not affect the price that you pay, but it does help us to sustain this website.
Software
Software for Casual Photographers
Adobe Lightroom + Photoshop – The Photographer’s Package as Adobe calls it, is ideal for most photographers. Lightroom is relatively easy to use, while Photoshop may have a steep learning curve for some… This is only available as a subscription.
Luminar Neo – Skylum Luminar Neo is an easy-to-use, and lightweight program that can be used by most beginner to intermediate photographers… even some advanced photographers may choose to stick with it. Luminar Neo is available as a one-time purchase, or as a subscription, based on your needs.
Affinity Photo – Serif’s Affinity Photo 2 is a direct competitor to Adobe Photoshop, and if you need to work with layers, create transparent backgrounds, create graphic designs for social media with text effects, or process panoramas, focus stacking, Fashion photography retouching, photo restoration, etc. then Affinity Photo is a good choice. Affinity Photo comes as a one-time purchase.
Image Processing
Image Retouching
Focus Stacking
Video Production Tools
- Power-zoom lens
- Shotgun mic 3.5mm jack | Shotgun XLR
- Small Gimbal for Mirrorless Cameras
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- DaVinci Resolve Studio
