If you have children who participate in theater, or music, or any school event, then you will very often be photographing them in less than ideal conditions.

Visit our pinterest.com page for photography gift ideas.

The holidays are here and it's time to look for that perfect gift. If you are shopping for your favorite photo bug, here are some hints on what to look for when making that purchase. For stocking stuffer suggestions check out our Pinterest page with lots of Stocking Stuffer ideas.

How to buy the right camera:

Part One: How often will the camera be used?
Part Two: What kind of photography will it be used for?
Part Three: Taking the photographer into consideration

Accessories:

How to choose a lens.

What to look for in a flash / speedlight.
(Quick answer: Buy only a flash made by the same manufacturer as the camera)

How to purchase a tripod:

Different leg lock styles
Carbon fiber or Aluminum
Different types of tripod heads
(Quick answer: buy a Manfrotto or Gitzo, for an upgraded head buy heads made by Really Right Stuff)

Although your small built-in flash works great (and if you think it doesn't join for NYC After Dark and we'll show you how great it really is!), sometimes you just need a little more control and a little bit

One of the most common questions during a Photo Safari is “what lens should I buy next?” . The problem is this: if you own more than one lens