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
The Osprey x Crazy Creek Talon 33L Backpack in Botanica Green is more than just a hiking pack—it’s a thoughtfully designed piece of gear that combines lightweight performance with serious field comfort. Created through a unique collaboration between two trusted outdoor brands, this limited-edition backpack is ideal for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and anyone who spends … Read more
The Bushnell 10x42mm Excursion Roof Prism Binoculars might not be the flashiest pair on the market—but they’re the kind of affordable, rugged, and reliable optics that I genuinely enjoy recommending to fellow birders and outdoor enthusiasts. At just $25, they’re offering far more than you’d expect in this price range, especially from a trusted name … Read more
The BLUETTI Elite 100 V2 is a brand-new arrival — and it might be just what outdoor enthusiasts have been missing. Power stations aren’t usually at the top of a birder’s gear list, but maybe it’s time they were. When you’re up at dawn, far from any plug, and your phone is running low or … Read more
After writing my roundup of the best lightweight binoculars for birding and hiking, one name kept resurfacing—Nikon PROSTAFF P7 8×30. It showed up in comment sections, popped up in gear forums, and even came up in casual emails from readers—people were genuinely curious about this model. And I get it. Nikon is a trusted name. … Read more
See nature in a whole new light—literally. Thermal binoculars are changing the way we experience wildlife and nighttime observation. Unlike conventional lightweight binoculars that rely on light, thermal models detect heat, allowing you to spot animals in total darkness. These devices are ideal for nature-watchers, birders, search-and-rescue teams, and anyone exploring the outdoors when the … Read more
If you’re keeping an eye on compact flash units in 2025, here’s one worth a closer look. The Flashpoint iT30Pro R2 TTL Portable iFlash has just landed, and it’s designed for photographers who want pro-level features without bulky gear. The iT30Pro comes in versions compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus/Panasonic, and Fujifilm. It’s lightweight, fast, … Read more
The OM SYSTEM OM‑5 Mark II camera is one of the freshest arrivals for 2025, offered in Sand Beige, Black, and Silver finishes. While it might not have the name recognition of some high-end mirrorless giants, for serious wildlife photographers — the ones slogging through mud, navigating dense forests, wetlands, and coastlines — it’s quickly … Read more