lens

I try not to fetishize gear. When you shoot as much as I do, everything loses its luster quickly—figuratively and literally. Cameras, lenses and lights are just the sum of their capabilities, and all that matters is how they'll help you achieve different visions. But my heart still skipped a beat when the updated version of Nikon's 200mm f/2 lens showed up on my doorstep.

The DeluxGear Lens Guard provides extra protection for your lenses, in the form of a giant body cap. There are photographers that say, justifiably, that their lenses are the most important part of their gear. Their lenses mean the world to them. When you place your lenses in your camera bag, lens wraps can provide some level of extra protection. However, if your bag doesn't have lots of padding, you may end up feeling that they're a bit unprotected.

Manual focus lenses are popular amongst videographers and some photographers that want an old-time feeling to their gear. The Rokinon 85mm F1.4 is a portrait lens that will appeal to the crowd that wants a budget-friendly lens with great image quality.

Not long ago, we brought Ryan Brenizer into the B&H studios to talk about the Brenizer Method. This technique involves taking numerous photos in a panoramic portrait and stitching them together in Photoshop. However, you don't necessarily need Photoshop to stitch the photos together as this can be done with Photoshop Elements. As we've stated before in our posting on Minor Retouching, many of the features that most people need and use can be done with the more affordable option.

In the world of filmmakers and videographers, there is a prolonged myth that bigger is better. The truth is, it all depends on the specific assignment. However, in capturing candid and real-life events, a clunky shoulder-mounted camera often inhibits the ability for even the best camera operator to obtain unobstructed realism. Packed with all the settings and controls an experienced shooter would require, the JVC GY-HM100U is a deceptively small camcorder that provides the operator with a professional level of image control, as well as the freedom of invisibility. This makes it perfectly suited to many videographers and documentarians.

B&H and Sigma Photo are giving away a most coveted lens—the Sigma 50mm F/1.4 EX DG HSM. If you've ever wanted a sharp, contrasty, fast-apertured lens with professional-grade construction, here's your chance to get your hands on one with the lens mount of your choice!

Click Read and Discuss to see how you can enter and snag this very-well-reviewed lens.

Pentax Forums and B&H are giving away a DA-Limited 40mm F/2.8 lens—one of the most loved lenses, due to its quality and small pancake size. The giveaway is part of the World Pentax Day celebration, and entering to win is very simple.