Canon EOS R6 Mark II mirrorless camera is marketed as a major step up from the original R6. It offers a new 24.2MP sensor, faster shooting speeds, improved autofocus, and better video capabilities. But is this new iteration truly an upgrade—and more importantly, is it the best choice for nature photography? After going through real-world … Read more
Smart bird baths are changing the way we support birds in our backyards—especially during the heat of summer. Traditional birdbaths often sit stagnant, collecting dirt, algae, and mosquito larvae. But smart designs like the Birdfy Bath Pro offer a cleaner, safer, and more natural alternative by keeping water circulating and fresh. Water is one of … Read more
The Swarovski EL Range binoculars are often marketed as the gold standard in rangefinding optics. These binoculars combine Swarovski’s legendary optics with a built-in laser rangefinder and angle measurement technology. That sounds high-tech, but it made me pause. I had to ask: Is all of this really useful for birdwatching? Or is it mostly overkill? … Read more
Two of the most popular insulated tumblers on the market right now are the Hydro Flask 32 Oz Travel Tumbler and the Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState. Both are built with premium materials, great insulation, and thoughtful design. The Hydro Flask 32 Oz Travel Tumbler stands out right away with its simple design and soft-touch finish. … Read more
The best portable water filter isn’t just for remote expeditions or survival kits—it’s a practical piece of gear for anyone who spends time outdoors. Long walks through bird-rich wetlands, multi-day hikes in the backcountry, or even a weekend of camping near a lake often come with a simple challenge: finding clean, safe water. Carrying a … Read more
The long-anticipated arrival of Sony’s RX1R III caught my attention instantly. This camera has been a decade in the making. The original RX1 series made waves with its compact size and full-frame sensor, and now, Sony has finally brought that legacy into the modern mirrorless era with the RX1R III. I’ve always been fascinated by … Read more
Camping should be fun, not frustrating. That’s why the Coleman Skydome Tent has become such a favorite. It’s designed for campers who want something quick, simple, and reliable. You can set it up in under 5 minutes, and the extra headroom makes it feel a lot more comfortable than older dome tents. This tent is … Read more
Most of the time, I head out with just the essentials—my binoculars, a camera with a good zoom lens, maybe a thermos and a field guide. Like many birders, I love traveling light and being immersed in nature. But over the years, I’ve found myself in situations where a little backup power would have made … Read more
Moment CineBloom Variable ND Filter (67mm) — Many birders and nature filmmakers don’t realize what they’re missing in their footage until they add this simple yet powerful filter to their kit. Most of the time, I’m out in nature with just my binoculars around my neck, a backpack with the essentials, and a reliable photo … Read more
I still remember the first time I looked through a pair of Swarovski Habicht 10×40 binoculars. I was a young birder on a field outing, tagging along with an older, much more experienced observer. At the time, I only had a pair of Russian 8×32 binoculars—they were simple, reliable, and served me well. But when … Read more