June means graduations, Father’s Day, and lots of deals to be had on all kinds of cool tech. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best deals out there for photographers and photography enthusiasts of all stripes. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for dad, a recent graduate (my commencement speech to y’all – adulting sucks, enjoy it while you can), or just looking to upgrade your kit on a budget, we have the goods.
Cameras
GoPro Hero5 for $300 (Amazon)
When it comes to action cameras there’s simply one unrivaled best-in-class camera, and that’s the GoPro Hero5 Black. Sure you can spend more money for the latest version, but most people will get more bang for their buck by opting for the Hero5 Black instead of the Hero6. The Hero5 Black offers built-in waterproofing (messing around with plastic housing is for the birds), a simple touchscreen interface, and decent battery life – so you’ll be sure to capture all your best moments from your next vacation.
Canon Powershot SX530 for $249 (Best Buy)
Cameras can be a bit of an investment and most people really don’t want the hassle of an interchangeable lens system (full frame, APS-C, or Micro Four-Thirds); they just want a camera that’s better than their phone. For these folks, the Canon Powershot SX530 can be had for a song – $250 at Best Buy. The Canon SX530 sports a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, which will provide better images than your phone considering it’s paired with a 50x optical zoom lens. The SX530 has the ability to connect via WiFi, Bluetooth, and NFC to your smartphone so sharing on your app of choice is only a few clicks away.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II with Case and SD Card for $750 (Olympus)
If the person on your shopping list is ready to step up their photography kit but not ready for an aching back, Olympus is running a great deal on their OM-D E-M5 Mark II. This weather-sealed Micro Four-Thirds wonder is equal parts workhorse, travel companion, and a breeze to handle thanks to Olympus’ advance photo settings. The menu layout may be the only fault with this camera but after a couple of times shooting with it you’ll get along just fine. We strongly suggest not cheaping out and getting the M. Zuiko 25mm f/1.8 instead of the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ – what you give up in the ability to zoom you’ll make up for in better image quality and a much, much faster lens.
Bags & Accessories
f-stop Kalamaja Aloe camera Bag for $90 (Amazon)
Camera bags that look like camera bags belong in the 90’s. The f-stop Kalamaja Aloe is a sleek, smart looking bag with an easy access top zipper that reveals a large pouch with a two divider insert (removable). It can easily fit a medium-sized DSLR, extra lens, and even has a pocket for an 8-inch tablet.
DSPTCH Paracord Wrist Strap for $32 (DSPTCH)
If you don’t want to look like a tourist with your branded camera strap that came in the box, take a look at the paracord wrist strap from DSPTCH. This wrist strap is made of 550 Type III paracord (yes, that’s a fancy way of saying military-grade survival rope) attached to a stainless steel clip. When properly cinched to your camera, you can rest assured it won’t be getting away from you no matter what.
Freedom Series Square Prints for $100 (Magnum Photos)
For the Collector Magnum Photos is running a very limited run of their Freedom square prints through 6/8 only. These signed/estate-stamped, 6×6-inch, museum quality prints reflect the theme of “freedom” on the 50th anniversary of the Summer of ‘68. It’s an absolutely stunning collection from some the most iconic photographers that are sure to be a hit with any photography lover. (You can send me one if you’d like.)
