Gear Reviews

Hands-on camera, lens, iPhone accessory, lighting, and editing software reviews by Ely Roberts. Browse the latest reviews below, or use the Reviews menu to explore a category.

Reviews, Tech Accessories Ely Roberts Reviews, Tech Accessories Ely Roberts

TechPod RePod Review: Turn an Apple Watch Into a Pocket Music Player

The TechPod RePod gave my unused Apple Watch a fun second life.

The TechPod RePod gave my unused Apple Watch a fun second life. After my daughter wanted to use our old iPods and their batteries would not hold a charge, this small aluminum case offered a practical alternative using a watch we already owned.

Originally published on YouTube Oct 5, 2026.

A mechanical case with a real click wheel

I tested the RePod with my 45mm Apple Watch Series 9. The case contains no electronics: its wheel mechanically connects to the watch’s Digital Crown. The tactile clicking is a big part of its appeal, and the watch still handles the music, apps, and touchscreen controls.

Installation and everyday use

The back opens with a simple twist, and the watch sits inside with its crown aligned to the controls. An opening lets you charge it without removing the case. I demonstrated Apple Music with AirPods and found the finished setup small enough for a pocket. My daughter enjoyed using it over the first few days.

My first impressions

The machined aluminum felt nicely made, and the ability to reuse an idle watch was the main attraction for me. Choose the version that matches your watch’s size and series, and follow its setup guide. This is an early hands-on impression, rather than a long-term battery or durability test.

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Neewer Z3R Flash and QZ Transmitter Review

The Neewer Z3R combines the round-head flash design I already liked with a touchscreen interface.

The Neewer Z3R combines the round-head flash design I already liked with a touchscreen interface. In this walkthrough, I try the Canon version with the QZ-C transmitter and explain how the setup fits my portrait and wedding photography.

Originally published on YouTube Sep 14, 2026.

Touchscreen controls and magnetic modifiers

The round head accepts magnetic accessories, including the dome and color-correction filters shown in the video. The removable battery supports USB-C charging, and the screen can be locked to reduce accidental changes. I liked the straightforward power adjustments and the tactile dial on the transmitter.

An outdoor portrait example

For a senior portrait session near sunset, I used the flash off camera in a Bowens-style flash bracket with a large lantern modifier. The resulting light was a subtle addition to the scene, which suited the natural look I wanted. The video includes those example photographs.

How I use flash at weddings

I generally prefer manual power because I want predictable output from frame to frame. I adjust shutter speed, ISO, flash power, and distance together, depending on the room and ambient light. The sample settings in the video describe that situation; they are starting points rather than universal settings.

Early verdict and disclosure

I had purchased the previous Neewer model and already enjoyed using it. Neewer sent this Z3R for me to test. These are my initial impressions and a real portrait example, with further wedding use still ahead at the time of recording.

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Jupio Tri-Charge vs Tilta 4-Channel Battery Charger

Charging multiple Canon batteries between two weddings pushed me to try the Jupio Tri-Charge and Tilta four-channel charger.

Charging multiple Canon batteries between two weddings pushed me to try the Jupio Tri-Charge and Tilta four-channel charger. Both reduce the number of individual chargers I need, but their designs suit different jobs.

Originally published on YouTube Sep 13, 2026.

Why I prefer Jupio for travel

The Jupio holds three batteries in a compact body with more protection around their sides. Its charge indicators show progress in steps, and its USB output powered a small cooling fan in my demonstration. I did not measure the output capacity, so the video is not a power-bank performance test.

Why Tilta makes sense in the studio

The Tilta accommodates four batteries and uses red, yellow, and green indicators that I found easy to read at a glance. My main complaint was the removable lid: I would have preferred a hinge, and I could see myself misplacing it while traveling. For a stationary charging setup, that bothered me less.

Check the battery version before buying

I encountered listings that mixed up Sony and Canon versions, including product photographs that did not match the listed model. Verify the exact battery compatibility and whether card-storage slots are included before ordering. My review compares the Canon-compatible units I eventually received.

My choice

I leaned toward the Jupio for travel and the Tilta for the studio. Both held the batteries reasonably firmly during light shaking, but neither demonstration should be treated as a drop test. The decision is mainly about portability, capacity, and how you prefer to read charge status.

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Telesin Master Grip Classic 3.5x Lens Kit: First Look

The Telesin Master Grip Classic kit pairs a magnetic camera grip with a 3.5x add-on telephoto lens.

The Telesin Master Grip Classic kit pairs a magnetic camera grip with a 3.5x add-on telephoto lens. This first look focuses on the hardware, app controls, and a few quick backyard photographs—not an extended travel test.

Originally published on YouTube Sep 9, 2026.

A phone setup that feels more like a camera

The magnetic grip rotates between horizontal and vertical shooting, with a shutter control, dial, zoom control, and customizable buttons. I liked the strong magnetic attachment and premium feel of the case. The kit also includes a hood, lens cap, lanyard, and a compartmented storage bag.

Use the intended phone camera

An app that lets you select the telephoto camera is important for this kind of accessory. In the demonstration, I used the app controls to set shutter speed and exposure compensation, and showed the stabilization setting. I also mentioned Moment as another app I had used.

Early image impressions

My quick backyard examples looked sharp and left me interested in using the lens for more distant subjects. Close focus was limited in the indoor demonstration, so this is primarily a way to gain reach rather than a close-up accessory. Check the exact case and phone compatibility before buying; the demonstration used my current phone while I was waiting for an upgrade.

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Four Dual Camera Harnesses Compared: My Wedding Photography Pick

After using dual-camera harnesses since 2011, I compared HoldFast, Clever Supply Co, 3 Legged Thing, and Spider.

After using dual-camera harnesses since 2011, I compared HoldFast, Clever Supply Co, 3 Legged Thing, and Spider. My preference comes down to how a harness handles two cameras, a camera bag, and a full working day.

Originally published on YouTube Sep 7, 2026.

HoldFast and Clever Supply Co

The HoldFast leather system served me for years and felt robust, but I found the newer version bulky and noisy for my needs. The Clever Supply Co harness felt like an upgrade for my workflow. I liked its leather and Peak Design connections, although the limited adjustment of the camera-holding straps was a drawback for me.

What I liked about 3 Legged Thing

The 3 Legged Thing system distributes weight well, and I was impressed by its rotating quick-disconnect hardware and Arca-compatible plates. The thicker harness was less suitable for my wedding routine, and its continuous strap could bunch up when I put a camera into my bag. I could still see myself using one side for a single-camera session.

Why my Spider setup became the favorite

The Spider harness gave me the adjustment I wanted, including strap length and fit across my back. However, the original connectors on my unit were sticking, so my final setup used 3 Legged Thing quick-disconnect fittings sewn onto the straps, plus an added front strap. That distinction matters: my recommendation in the video is based on this modified combination, not an unmodified harness.

Choose around your working routine

A harness that works well for sports or a single camera may feel different while carrying two cameras and a shoulder bag all day. My priorities were easy access, rotation, adjustability, and avoiding tangled straps. The video shows how each system behaves with my actual kit.

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Sony RX1R III First Impressions: Is It Worth It?

After about a month with the Sony RX1R III, including travel and everyday family photographs, I was impressed by how much camera fits into such a compact body.

After about a month with the Sony RX1R III, including travel and everyday family photographs, I was impressed by how much camera fits into such a compact body. These are first impressions and a look at my accessory setup, rather than a finished long-term review.

Originally published on YouTube Sep 2, 2026.

The price I actually paid

I bought mine from Japan through eBay for roughly $3,300 including the import charge I paid. That is the price behind my value judgment. The roughly $5,100 figure discussed in the video is a much bigger commitment, and prices and import costs can change.

Small body, excellent everyday results

I loved the autofocus for following children and the image quality at f/2. The 35mm perspective and small size made it easy to bring along. I also enjoyed using a dedicated camera more than relying on my phone for every photograph.

Accessories that improved handling

My setup included a SmallRig base, grip tape on the aperture ring, a Peak Design strap, and a PolarPro MagLock filter. The grip tape made the aperture easier for my larger hands to adjust. I carried it in a small Clever Supply bag, with spare batteries and a compact flash.

The compromises I noticed

Battery life was not a strong point, so I wanted spare batteries for a full day. There is no in-body stabilization, and some slower-shutter photographs showed camera movement. I also found the aperture-ring grip placement awkward and the card slot fiddly to access. Those details did not spoil the experience, but they are worth considering alongside the size and image quality.

My early verdict

At the price I paid, I had no regrets. The compact size, autofocus, and files made it a camera I wanted to use. The video explains the setup in more detail, including the limitations of my early testing.

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Narrative Select and Edit Review: My AI Photo Workflow

Narrative Select and Edit helps me work through large shoots while keeping the final decisions in my hands.

Narrative Select and Edit helps me work through large shoots while keeping the final decisions in my hands. This walkthrough uses a real wedding project to show why I have continued using the software since 2021.

Originally published on YouTube Aug 9, 2026.

Why it fits my work

I want post-production to stay manageable alongside a busy shooting schedule and family life. After trying several editing and culling tools, Narrative was the best fit for my own workflow. That is a personal preference, not a controlled ranking of every competing product.

AI assessments support my decisions

In the example, the initial scan of almost 12,000 photographs took about 35 minutes. Focus and eye assessments, face grouping, and scene comparisons help me review the files. For a wedding, I still go through every image because an automated assessment may miss the creative reason I want to keep it.

Two passes, then editing

I first select the images I want, then make another pass to refine that selection. The video also shows training an editing profile from previous Lightroom work and sending the selected photographs into the editing workflow. I keep the final review and finishing adjustments part of the process.

Who this review is for

If selecting and editing large shoots is slowing you down, the video gives a detailed look at my actual workflow. Times and results depend on the project, computer, and how you work. I am a Narrative ambassador, as disclosed in the original video.

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My Canon R5 II Run-and-Gun Video Kit

This is the compact video kit I developed through shows, interviews, and travel.

This is the compact video kit I developed through shows, interviews, and travel. The Canon R5 II is the center of it, but reliable audio, quick handling, and keeping the camera cool matter just as much as the body.

Originally published on YouTube Jul 29, 2026.

Camera, lens, and quick handling

I use the RF 16-28mm lens, a compact baseplate setup, and a quick-release tripod mount. A Peak Design strap lets me go hands-free when I need to handle a product or talk to someone. Outdoors, I add a variable ND filter with a grippy step-up ring; indoors, I keep the setup simpler.

Audio redundancy

DJI wireless microphones cover me and the person I am interviewing, with separate onboard recordings as backups. I also use a Canon shoe-mounted microphone for additional sound and ambience. The separate recordings must still be organized and synced in the edit. Checking the correct input jack and confirming that recording is running remain essential.

Cooling lessons from actual use

By this video, I was using a newer SmallRig cooling unit for mobile work. My earlier Ulanzi setup still worked well on external power, but its detachable battery had become a frustration. The newer SmallRig unit ran for about five hours on auto during one event in my experience. That is an observation from that outing, not a guaranteed runtime in every condition.

What matters most

My goal is a kit I can carry, operate quickly, and trust to capture usable sound. The video also covers spare batteries, editing, and the accessories that make this setup practical for me.

Original samples or settings: Download here.

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Telesin 2x Master Optic Lens: More Reach for iPhone Photography

Telesin’s Master Optic lens adds optical reach to the phone’s telephoto camera.

Telesin’s Master Optic lens adds optical reach to the phone’s telephoto camera. This hands-on overview covers how the lens, case, and optional grip fit together, with an emphasis on handling rather than a controlled image-quality test.

Originally published on YouTube Jun 22, 2026.

Select the telephoto camera

I use the Moment app so I can choose the camera behind the accessory and avoid automatic lens switching. The appeal is extra optical reach for distant subjects such as landscapes, rather than simply cropping farther into the same image.

The case and grip system

The threaded lens mount attaches to a removable section of the case. I liked the secure locking arrangement, thin case, and strong magnetic attachment for the optional Master Grip. Rotating the grip makes it easy to move between horizontal and vertical shooting.

My first impressions

The hood, cap, and small lens-like design make this a fun kit to carry. The video introduces the stabilized telephoto accessory and shows its operation, but does not establish a measured stabilization rating. For me, the appeal is turning the phone into a more tactile photography setup with greater reach.

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Alvin’s Cables HDMI 2.1 Cable: A Compact Video Rig Upgrade

An HDMI cable is a small part of a video kit, but this coiled Alvin’s Cables model made a useful impression.

An HDMI cable is a small part of a video kit, but this coiled Alvin’s Cables model made a useful impression. I liked its compact shape, bright red color, and ability to stretch when the rig needed extra room.

Originally published on YouTube Jun 20, 2026.

Why the coiled design works for me

The cable stretches to roughly 18 inches in my demonstration and returned to its compact shape after I extended it. The red jacket makes it easier to distinguish from the USB-C and other cables in my bag.

How I use it

My main uses are connecting an on-camera monitor and an Accsoon setup for monitoring through an iPad. The cable is marketed as HDMI 2.1 with support up to 8K, but this short review is about handling and my setup rather than an exhaustive bandwidth or compatibility test.

A simple, useful accessory

At the roughly twenty-dollar price discussed in the video, I felt it was a worthwhile addition. Check the connector types and required length for your own rig before ordering.

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Sandmarc 72mm Telephoto Lens Review for iPhone

The Sandmarc 72mm accessory adds 3x optical magnification to a compatible iPhone telephoto setup.

The Sandmarc 72mm accessory adds 3x optical magnification to a compatible iPhone telephoto setup. I compared its handling with the earlier 48mm version and liked how little additional bulk came with the extra reach.

Originally published on YouTube Jun 20, 2026.

More reach in a compact kit

The newer lens is only slightly longer than the 48mm version in my side-by-side demonstration. I see it as a useful option for distant landscapes and other subjects you cannot easily approach. It is not a close-focusing accessory; my approximate focus-distance comments in the video are observations, not a measured specification.

App and mounting choices

I use Moment to select the intended phone camera. The threaded case gives a straightforward mount, and the video also demonstrates a clip-style alternative. My thin case had an Ohsnap magnetic accessory added to it, so the magnetic charging arrangement shown is my modified setup.

Filters and my verdict

The system includes options for filters, and I discuss my experience with polarization and mist effects. I enjoyed the compact form and extra reach. If you need less magnification, the 48mm option remains worth considering; the video shows the size comparison and how the accessories attach.

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7RYMS Qshot V2 Pro Review: An iPhone Monitor and Remote

The 7RYMS Qshot V2 Pro lets me frame myself using the iPhone’s rear cameras.

The 7RYMS Qshot V2 Pro lets me frame myself using the iPhone’s rear cameras. I tested its magnetic monitor and remote with my iPhone 17 Pro Max, including both wireless and wired connections.

Originally published on YouTube Jun 19, 2026.

Useful for talking-head and overhead video

The monitor can attach to the phone or sit separately where I can see it during a top-down demonstration. The remote controls recording, zoom, and switching between photo and video. Brightness, image flipping, and display zoom help tailor the view.

Wireless convenience versus a cable

Wireless screen mirroring worked with a small amount of lag in my demonstration. Connecting through the phone/UVC USB-C port removed the noticeable delay for me. The device has separate ports for charging, microphone use, and the phone connection, so identifying the right port matters.

My verdict and disclosure

I liked the controls and flexibility; my main wish was a larger screen. 7RYMS sent the unit for review. For someone making videos with an iPhone, it offers a practical way to monitor framing without buying a separate camera.

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Angelbird Recovered My Lost Footage: A Customer Service Review

After an R5 II recording session ended unexpectedly, I got home and could not find an important clip.

After an R5 II recording session ended unexpectedly, I got home and could not find an important clip. This is my personal experience with Angelbird’s recovery service and why it changed how I think about memory-card support.

Originally published on YouTube May 29, 2026.

What happened to the footage

The camera had stopped during a long interview after my cooling setup ran out of battery. I could not establish whether the missing recording was caused by the camera, card, or another part of the setup. Canon suggested contacting the card manufacturer.

What Angelbird recovered

After checking my purchase information, Angelbird arranged shipping to Austria. The team rebuilt the missing recording and recovered the beginning of the interview that I needed. Some sections still had playback and audio problems, so this was a valuable partial recovery rather than a perfect restoration.

Why I was impressed

In my case, shipping was covered and the card was replaced with an upgraded model. I do not know whether those terms apply to every customer or situation. The review reflects the support I personally received, which left me much more confident in choosing Angelbird again.

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PGYTECH OneGo Roamer Tote 25L

PGYTECH OneGo Roamer Tote 25L Review

My Review of the PGYTECH OneGo Roamer Tote 25L

Save 10% with Code "GUYROAM10"

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PPvKuJ

Official Store: https://tidd.ly/4fyMGju

Today I’m checking out the PGYTECH OneGo Roamer Tote Backpack in the 25L version. I’ve been using this bag for a couple of weeks, so I packed it up with a small photo kit and took it out to Sparks Lake near Bend, Oregon to see how it worked in the real world. This is a lightweight 25L camera, tech, laptop, and day-use bag with tote-style top access, 180-degree back access, magnetic handles, side pockets, tripod carry, a laptop sleeve, and plenty of organization for camera gear and everyday carry items. For this test, I packed it with my 16-inch MacBook Pro, Canon R5 Mark II, RF 70-200mm f/2.8 Z, RF 16-28mm, RF 28-70mm STM, Mavic 4 Pro, filters, tripod, notebook, pen, and flashlight. Then we headed up past Mt. Bachelor to Sparks Lake for a little landscape shoot, some bag testing.

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Ulanzi vs SmallRig Camera Cooling Fans: My Test Results

I compared two camera cooling fans for long video recordings and preferred the Ulanzi unit in this April 2026 test.

I compared two camera cooling fans for long video recordings and preferred the Ulanzi unit in this April 2026 test. Attachment security and consistent operation mattered as much to me as the temperature readings.

Originally published on YouTube Apr 16, 2026.

What the recording tests showed

With external power and cooling, my test setup recorded until the 512GB card filled, roughly two hours and twenty minutes in the example discussed. Without cooling, the recording stopped sooner. These results describe my cameras, settings, and room conditions, not a guarantee for every shoot.

Why Ulanzi won this comparison

I found the spring-loaded attachment easier to install and more secure. Its selectable operating modes suited my unattended recordings. The SmallRig unit I tested shut off during the demonstration and had an attachment I trusted less, particularly when changing the camera’s orientation.

Noise, power, and a later update

The video includes fan-noise samples and surface-temperature checks. The Ulanzi sounded more like airflow to me, while the SmallRig had more of a whine. In my later run-and-gun kit review, I describe problems with the Ulanzi battery and better results from a newer SmallRig model. Read that follow-up before treating this earlier comparison as my final recommendation for mobile use.

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Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 II Review: My Travel Zoom

The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 II became my main travel zoom on the X-T5 and X-E5.

The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 II became my main travel zoom on the X-T5 and X-E5. After using it on several trips, including Portugal, I liked its combination of range, size, and image character.

Originally published on YouTube Apr 15, 2026.

Why it worked for travel

A zoom is convenient when I am walking around with family and photographing a mixture of architecture, food, and everyday moments. I found this lens light and compact enough for that role, and sharp enough for my use on Fujifilm’s 40-megapixel cameras.

Handling and a repair

I liked the marked aperture ring, but wished its detents and the zoom ring offered more resistance. My copy developed an aperture issue that displayed f/3.2 when I expected f/2.8. Fujifilm adjusted it under warranty before I sold it.

How to interpret the sample images

Most examples in the video use my edits and a 10% Moment CineBloom filter. The resulting glow and contrast are therefore not the bare lens alone. The image walkthrough includes different apertures, low-light scenes, missed focus, and motion blur, so it is a practical travel gallery rather than a controlled sharpness test.

Why I sold it

I sold the lens while changing my personal camera kit and experimenting with other systems. I remained happy with its results. The downloadable examples linked from the original video are the best way to judge whether the look suits your own photography.

Original samples or settings: Download here.

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WANDRD Transit Bags Review After 12 Days in Portugal

I traveled to Portugal with the WANDRD Transit roller and 30–35L backpack, then unpacked them on camera after getting home.

I traveled to Portugal with the WANDRD Transit roller and 30–35L backpack, then unpacked them on camera after getting home. The pair worked well for our family trip, with a few handling and fit details worth knowing before you choose your travel setup.

Originally published on YouTube Apr 10, 2026.

The roller handled the trip well

The wheels worked well on the surfaces we encountered, and the bag stayed stable with the backpack attached. I appreciated the handles, accessible pockets, and parts that appeared straightforward to service. I would have liked an expansion option, and pulling a loaded setup for longer distances still took effort.

Backpack organization and fit

The side pass-through kept the laptop and main access points reachable while the backpack sat on the roller. My 16-inch MacBook Pro fit well, and the many pockets were useful once I learned where everything was. Colored zipper pulls would make the compartments easier to identify.

My main reservations

The backpack was a tight fit under some airplane seats, so I would consider a smaller bag if under-seat storage is essential. The sternum strap took practice, and I wanted the optional waist belt to sit lower for my body. I also wished some internal pockets had double zipper pulls to reduce spilling when opened from the side.

My verdict and disclosure

I enjoyed using the pair and appreciated the backpack’s expansion when carrying extra items. Airline fit depends on the aircraft, packing, and carrier limits; my trip is not a guarantee of acceptance. WANDRD supplied bags for testing, and I also bought additional gear for the trip. The earlier overview is included below alongside the later travel review.

Earlier hands-on overview

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Insta360 Snap Review: A Rear-Camera Selfie Screen for iPhone

The Insta360 Snap gave me a straightforward way to see myself while using my phone’s rear cameras.

The Insta360 Snap gave me a straightforward way to see myself while using my phone’s rear cameras. My favorite feature was the wired touchscreen connection: I could plug it in and start framing without managing a wireless link.

Originally published on YouTube Apr 8, 2026.

A simple connection and useful controls

I demonstrated the Snap with my iPhone 17 Pro Max. The magnetic attachment felt secure, and the screen started quickly after I connected the cable. Touch controls let me work with the camera interface, while the cover protects the screen in a bag.

The light-equipped version

The version I tried has a small light with three brightness levels and three color-temperature settings. I preferred having that option available, even though a small light will not replace a larger lighting setup.

The trade-off

The short cable keeps the monitor close to the phone, so it is better suited to handheld self-recording than placing a monitor across the room. I liked that it draws power from the phone and needs no separate charging routine. My demonstration covers one phone setup; check compatibility for your device before purchasing.

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Why I Sold My Fujifilm X-E5 After Six Months

After six months and a 12-day Portugal trip, I sold my Fujifilm X-E5.

After six months and a 12-day Portugal trip, I sold my Fujifilm X-E5. I still loved the photographs, but its small controls and handling did not suit me as well as I had hoped.

Originally published on YouTube Apr 8, 2026.

What I still loved

Fujifilm’s colors, JPEG options, and film simulations remained major strengths for me. I enjoyed the files from the 40-megapixel sensor and the character of higher-ISO images. On the Portugal trip, charging each night was enough for my daily use.

The controls were the problem

The rear dial felt soft to me, and I frequently bumped controls while taking the camera in and out of a bag. I missed a dedicated ISO dial and found the small body less comfortable with the 16-55mm zoom. The screen movement and memory-card access were other small frustrations.

Autofocus and my next step

For quick photographs of my daughter, I wanted faster and more dependable focus. The X-E5 could make beautiful images, but it was not my preferred tool for fast-moving moments. I would personally lean toward the X-T5 for its grip, dials, and screen. This is a follow-up to my earlier X-E5 review, showing how my opinion developed with longer use.

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Flashpoint / Godox iT32 Review: A Detachable Magnetic Flash

The iT32 immediately appealed to me because the flash lifts off its magnetic camera base and can still fire off camera.

The iT32 immediately appealed to me because the flash lifts off its magnetic camera base and can still fire off camera. I bought one after seeing it in person, and this studio overview shows why I was excited to use it.

Originally published on YouTube Mar 13, 2026.

The magnetic base is the main attraction

The recessed magnetic connection felt secure in my hands. The base stays on the camera and acts as the trigger when the flash is detached. I demonstrated exposure compensation from the base and the convenience of switching between attached and handheld use.

A compact kit with useful modifiers

The package shown includes a stand foot, diffusion accessories, and warming gels. I can see it being useful for a little fill near sunset or a compact dance-floor setup. USB-C charging with the components attached is another convenient detail.

An early recommendation

I liked the size and flexibility, particularly for a kit I can keep in a small bag. This video is an initial overview rather than an endurance or radio-range test. Select the correct camera-system base, and verify compatibility before treating the modular design as interchangeable with your existing flash gear.

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