Photography News

Photo by Peter Bargh. Gear Suggestions:

• A macro lens is very useful but not essential
• Tripod – one where the centre column can be turned horizontal is useful so you can get right in over the surface you’re working on. You could also use a table top tripod.

  Technique:

Before you start you need to make sure your cutlery is clean and that your egg doesn’t have any imperfections.

You need to work where there’s plenty of light so position yourself near a window/ patio doors. Plain backgrounds, particularly reflective ones, work best. Still life tables that have a perspex base work well but try using a piece of white card or plastic tray if you don’t have one. If you have white plastic windowsills try setting your still life up on it but you may need to place a sheet of paper, netting or cloth on the glass to diffuse the light slightly.

When it comes to placement, experimentation is key as there are various ways to arrange your props for a successful shot. However, one that works particularly well is where you balance the egg inside two crossed over forks. Shooting this straight on produces perfectly good results but do try adjusting the angle of your setup or move your feet so you're shooting from a different position.

Make sure your camera focuses on the correct point so you don’t end up with a blurry egg, watch your white balance and if you have a problem with unwanted shadows creeping into your shot, try moving your set-up or any objects nearby that could be casting them.

You can keep your shot in colour or to give more focus to the shapes and structure of the shot, convert it to black & white and / or use a slight vignette to draw the eye to the middle of the photograph.

[SECTION]INTRODUCTION[/SECTION]

 

 

Quick Verdict

The Fujifilm X-E5 is a classic design, combining traditional controls and functions with the latest high quality 40MP sensor. This is all in a likeable rangefinder-style format that will appeal to traditional photographers as well as those who love modern technology. Handling is superb, the quality is sublime and this could well be an ideal travel companion.

 

Fujifilm have a long and impressive history of producing solid, reliable and versatile cameras and lenses of the highest quality. The new X-E5 continues this tradition, with a classic rangefinder-style layout, a compact form factor and all housed in a solid camera body packed with the latest technological advances. We couple this up with the recently reviewed Fujinon XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens, an impressive looking package. Let's see if it all lives up to expectations, both in the technical tests and in the field.

 

Fujifilm X-E5 Features

Starting with the machined Aluminium top plate, the first impression is of solid, precision manufacture. Finish is excellent. The style is one of conventional physical controls for the most used functions, rather than having to delve constantly into the menus. The film simulation modes are controlled by a small dial at the back of the top plate, the selection being shown in a small clear window. There are several commonly used settings from the dial, the option to save our own favourite and a setting that provides access to the full range in the menus. Moving along the top plate, we have the hotshoe, a generously sized shutter speed dial, on/off switch, unmarked button that is the Fn menu and an exposure compensation dial. Just in front of the on/off switch, at the top of the front of the top plate, are the dial for directly setting the ISO and a switch that selects a Surround View function. Toggle this switch to engage the digital teleconverter, either with the surrounding image area still visible (like a rangefinder camera would show) or as a magnified image. Pixel counts will be smaller as we “zoom” in. 

 

 

At the back of the top plate, we have buttons for Drive, Play, AE-L and the dial to make changes to a selected parameter. The useful Q menu has a well recessed button that has no tendency to be vulnerable to accidentally being engaged. The dial is also firmer in action than some Fujifilm models, so is more reliable in action.

The back panel has a joystick, rather small but effective, a menu/OK button and a Display/Back button. The 3” tilt touch sensitive LCD is bright and clear. There are 1.04M dots.

The viewfinder is a 0.39” OLED EVF with a more generous 2.36M dots. 

The weather-sealed body is solid, weighing in at 445g with battery and card. There is just one card slot. The built in 5 axis IBIS gives a 7 stop advantage at the centre of the field and 6 stops at the periphery. 

The 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor is capable of producing lovely image quality, along with impressively low noise levels. There are also various routes to connectivity. The physical interfaces are USB-C, HDMI Micro D, 3.5mm jack for mic/remote and the hotshoe. Connection is also possible via WiFi and Bluetooth. There is also a very useful Fujifilm X App.

 

 

Fujifilm X-E5 Key Features

•  X Mount APS-C format
•  Machined Aluminium top plate
•  Surround View function
•  40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor
•  X-Processor 5
•  5 Axis IBIS, 7 stops centre, 6 stops periphery
•  Mechanical shutter 30secs to 1/4000sec
•  Electronic shutter 30 secs to 1/180000sec
•  AF sensitivity -4 EV Contrast detection, -7 EV Phase detection
•  AI-powered subject detection - animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, aeroplanes, trains, insects and drones
•  Native ISO range 125-12,800, extendable to ISO 80-51,200
•  20 Film Simulation modes
•  Film Simulation Dial
•  1 SD card slot – UHS-I, UHS-II, SD, SDHC, SDXC
•  Video speed class V90
•  NP-W126S battery 310 frames/400 frames (economy mode)
•  3in LCD touch screen tilt type monitor 1.04M dots
•  0.39” OLED EVF, 2.36M dots
•  6.2K/30P internal recording in 4:2:2 10-bit quality
•  High speed video at 4K/60P and 1080/240p
•  WiFi, Bluetooth
•  Fujifilm X App
•  USB-C, HDMI Micro D, 3.5mm mic/remote jack, hotshoe
•  Body measures 124.9mm x 72.9mm x 39.1mm
•  445g with battery and SD card
•  Operating temperature 0C to +40C

 

Fujifilm X-E5 Handling

With plenty of physical dials and buttons operating the key features, this is a camera that will appeal to traditional photographers as much as those used to more menu driven designs. The instant access to shutter speeds, aperture (via the lens aperture ring with the provided pancake lens), ISO, exposure compensation and selected film simulation modes is quick and efficient. The bulk of the camera is sufficient to make handling much easier, rather than having awkward grips and the tendency to operate controls by accident. The X-E5 suffers from none of that.

Other adjustments can be accessed quickly using the Fn and Q menus, and these are selected by the joystick and then adjusted using the rear control wheel. As mentioned, this wheel is firm enough to ensure adjustments are reliably made every time.

The tilting rear screen is useful and seems sturdily made to withstand long term use. The camera body as a whole is solid but not overly heavy. Dimensions are small enough to contemplate it being carried, complete with pancake lens, in a large coat pocket. 

There is no obvious video switch, but this feature is activated as a setting in the drive menu. Once found and engaged, the actual shooting of impromptu videos of high quality is very easy. Sound quality is also good. Not primarily a video camera perhaps, but still very capable when needed.

 

[SECTION]PERFORMANCE[/SECTION]

Fujifilm X-E5 Performance

The performance section is where we look at the image quality performance of the camera. Additional sample photos and product shots are available in the Equipment Database, where you can add your own review, photos and product ratings.
 

Fujifilm X-T30 III Other sample images Previous Next

 

Lens Performance – The Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR pancake lens was supplied with the X-E5 and has recently been reviewed. A summary of the lens performance:

Central sharpness is excellent from f/2.8 right the way through to f/11 and is still very good at f/16. The edges are very good from f/2.8 to f/11 and good at f/16. This is a great performance, and the images look sharp and crisp across the frame.

CA (Chromatic Aberration) is minimal at the centre and still well under control at the edges. Colour fringing is not a problem in most images. Further correction could be made in the software in extreme instances, but it is doubtful that this would be required.

Distortion is just -0.20% barrel, straight lines remaining straight.

Bokeh is relaxed and easy on the eye.

Flare control is excellent, as is the norm with Fujifilm lenses. In very extreme lighting, it is just possible to see some slight artefacts, but we have to work at it to achieve such effects.

Vignetting is visible, particularly at wider apertures, but not obtrusive in general photography. In any event, a slight corner darkening can be a useful effect in many images, concentrating the eye towards the centre.

The pancake lens is a great companion for the X-E5, offering superb quality and making the combination ideal for travelling light.

 

Fujifilm X-T30 III ISO test images Previous Next

 

ISO Performance – Noise is virtually absent from ISO 80 right through to ISO 800. The very first whisper of noise and the very slightest reduction in edge sharpness occurs at ISO 1600, although at this point, quality is still high. At ISO 3200 and ISO 6400, noise is just starting to be more obvious and edge sharpness is reduced, but these values are still fully usable. ISO 6400 and ISO 12800 see a jump in noise levels, and the edges of the test target boxes are starting to show signs of becoming feathery rather than crisp. At ISO 25600, sharpness falls off and noise becomes quite obtrusive. At ISO 51200, noise levels are moderately high and edge sharpness is quite poor. However, the darkest test target boxes can still be differentiated from the background, so this is overall a solid performance.

 

Fujifilm X-T30 III White-balance test images Previous Next

 

White Balance – White balance pre-set options are auto white priority, auto, auto ambience priority, 3 custom settings, K colour temperature setting, daylight, shade, 3 fluorescent settings, incandescent and underwater. Most of the images shot for this review used the auto ambience setting, which gives good colour balance but does not destroy the subtleties of the ambient light. The shade setting is useful for dark woodlands and helps to record natural colours of fungi in particular. The missing one is, as mentioned previously with Fujifilm cameras, a cloudy setting, the digital equivalent of the 81A or cloudy filter. Almost all other marques include this, so it would be useful for those who like warm images. Otherwise, the presets offered work very well.

 

Fujifilm X-T30 III Digital filters Previous Next

 

Digital Filters – As with the recently reviewed X-T30 III, there are two avenues of approach to the 20 film simulations. The dial on the back of the top plate controls the readily accessible options. The selection made can be seen in the small window on the top plate. This enables direct access to a small selection of simulations, three custom selections plus an Acros setting that points to the Acros simulation but can be re-programmed to anything the user wishes. The C setting refers the user to the menus to select an option. The 20 choices are Provia/Standard, Velvia/Vivid, Astia/Soft, Classic Chrome, Reala Ace, Pro Neg. Hi, Pro Neg. Std, Classic Neg., Nostalgic Neg,. Eterna/Cinema, Eterna Bleach Bypass, Acros, Acros+Ye filter, Acros+R filter, Acros+G filter, Monochrome, Monochrome+Ye filter, Monochrome+R filter, Monochrome+G filter and Sepia.

The dual names such as Velvia/Vivid would be self explanatory to those who are familiar with the film types, but if not then the description gives an explanation. This versatility in choosing image styles makes good sense and gives a direct expectation to those who shoot or have shot film.

 

Video –  Although primarily a stills camera, the X-E5 has a sensible specification:

• 6.2K/30P internal recording in 4:2:2 10-bit quality
• High speed video at 4K/60P and 1080/240P
• Open Gate recording
• MOV (HEVC/H.265 or H.264)
• MP4 H.264

Shooting basic FHD video is pretty straightforward, and impromptu results are smooth, also with good quality sound. The tracking AF follows its subject effectively. The sound is clear. The stability of the video stabilisation also helps when the camera is unsupported, even when walking.

Video sample coming soon.

 

[SECTION]VERDICT[/SECTION]

 

 

Value For Money

The [AMUK]Fujifilm X-E5|Fujifilm+X-E5[/AMUK] body only is priced at £1249.00. Add the XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens, and the cost becomes £1499.00

This is a similar price level to the [AMUK]Fujifilm X100VI|Fujifilm+X100VI[/AMUK] with its fixed 23mm f/2 lens, priced at £1599.00

These are cameras intended to appeal to those who want the compact rangefinder style, rather than the DSLR style of mirrorless cameras. Not only that, but also we have a very compact form factor that brings these into the realm of pocketable, providing we are talking about large coat pockets.

The only other direction, fixed lens again, might be the [AMUK]Leica Q|Leica+Q[/AMUK] cameras, but then we are looking at a very different pricing level.

Overall, the new Fujifilm X-E5 looks to be sound VFM.

 

Fujifilm X-E5 Verdict

There is much to like about the X-E5. The rangefinder style will appeal to many, but there is so much more about this camera. It is solid, full of features, the quality is superb and the handling vastly improved with its dial orientated approach. The pancake lens completes the concept of a travel compact camera, but of course, here we also have the ability to use other lenses available in Fuji X mount. This is where the camera instantly scores above the X100VI with its fixed lens. 

Whilst there are many similarly priced alternatives, they do not have the same thin profile and usually are supplied with small but protruding zoom lenses. This is a different direction from the slim profile of the X-E5.

If the form factor appeals, then the camera works extremely well and it can be Highly Recommended.

 

Fujifilm X-E5 Pros

• Excellent image quality
• Light and compact
• Image Stabilisation
• Weather resistance
• Film simulation options
• Subject detection options
• Competitive price
• Fantastic high quality lens range

 

Fujifilm X-E5 Cons

• Cold operation only down to 0C

 

[REVIEW_FOOTER]R_features=4.5|R_handling=4.5|R_performance=4.5|R_value=4.5|R_overall=4.5|A_level=4.5|A_text=Highly recommended – Compact and high quality with superior handling|E_id=8016[/REVIEW_FOOTER]

 

View the Fujifilm X-E5 camera specs in the equipment database.

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Beautiful seascape titled ‘Another Seascape’ by Archie2022 has won our POTW.

We loved the calm yet powerful mood this shot creates as the waves crash over the rocky cliffs in the foreground. The darker rocks add drama, while the layered coastline in the distance fades gently into the soft evening light. You can feel the strength of the sea and the peaceful atmosphere at the same time, making this coastal scene very special. The warm, natural light brings out the textures in the water, cliffs, and sky.

It’s a wonderful seascape that makes us wish we were standing there enjoying the view.

Every Photo of the Week (POTW) winner will be rewarded with a Samsung 128GB PRO Plus microSDXC memory card with SD adapter, providing top-tier storage for all your creative needs across multiple devices. But that's not all! In January 2026, we’ll crown our 2025 Photo of the Year winner, who will take home the ultimate prize of a Samsung Portable 1TB SSD T7 Shield, courtesy of Samsung. It’s time to shoot, submit, and showcase your best work for a chance to win these incredible rewards!

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Win 1 of 10 Outdoor Photographer Subscriptions!

Win a Year’s Subscription to Outdoor Photographer – The Ultimate Christmas Treat for Photography Lovers!

This Christmas, we’re delighted to offer a truly inspirational prize for photographers of all levels: a 12-month subscription to Outdoor Photographer magazine for 10 lucky winners! Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a nature enthusiast or someone who simply loves learning from the world’s best image-makers, this is a gift that will last long after the festive season has passed.

Outdoor Photographer is one of the world’s leading photography magazines, celebrated for its breathtaking imagery, expert advice and deep connection to the landscapes, wildlife and wild spaces that inspire so many of us. Each issue is packed with spectacular visuals, detailed techniques and thoughtful stories from the field, making it the perfect creative companion throughout the year.

A subscription brings readers into the heart of outdoor photography. Every edition explores the craft from multiple angles: from mastering natural light and refining composition to understanding changing seasons, weather patterns and the unique challenges of shooting in remote environments. Readers can discover new ways to elevate their skills, develop their artistic eye and build confidence in capturing the world more meaningfully.

Beyond technique, Outdoor Photographer showcases work from internationally recognised professionals as well as rising talents, offering a steady stream of motivation. The magazine’s features highlight stunning locations across the globe—towering mountain ranges, dramatic coastlines, silent forests, desert expanses, frozen worlds and intimate wildlife encounters. It’s a visual journey that encourages readers to explore, experiment and reconnect with nature through their lens.

The subscription also includes thoughtful gear coverage, with practical reviews, field tests and equipment recommendations that help photographers make informed choices. Whether you’re considering a new camera body, comparing lenses or looking for accessories that will enhance your toolkit, the magazine delivers clear, experience-led insights from those who take equipment into real-world conditions.

What makes a prize like this special is its ability to spark creativity throughout the year. Each issue becomes a moment of inspiration—a reminder to get outside, slow down, observe more deeply and translate your experience into imagery that resonates. From capturing winter frost to spring wildlife, summer sunsets and autumn colours, Outdoor Photographer offers ongoing prompts and ideas that help photographers grow in every season.

This Christmas Advent giveaway celebrates the spirit of photography: curiosity, exploration, patience and the joy of seeing the world with fresh eyes. Gifting someone a year of Outdoor Photographer isn’t just handing over a magazine subscription—it’s giving them access to a community of passionate creatives, a source of expert learning and a beautifully curated monthly boost of motivation.

Visit Outdoor Photographer

Today's Prize Win 1 of 10 Outdoor Photographer Subscriptions!

We’re thrilled to include this in our festive lineup and can’t wait to share the magic of outdoor photography with our lucky winners. Good luck, and from all of us, have a wonderfully creative Christmas filled with inspiration, adventure and unforgettable images.

Visit Outdoor Photographer

As a thanks to all of you who support the site by purchasing Plus Membership, you will receive 2 entries per draw.

Also, a huge thank you to all of our members, old and new, Plus and Free, for being part of our amazing community and to those clients who have supported us this year, through continuing tough economic circumstances. It's certainly been another challenging year, so thanks - we couldn't have made it through 2025 without you!

Wishing you all a lovely Christmas and here’s hoping 2026 will be healthy and happy all round. The ePHOTOzine Team.

[PRIZE_ENTRY]7015[/PRIZE_ENTRY]

 

There's nothing quite like picking your way around the edges of a lake which is just beginning to freeze and photographing great abstract pictures of ice details. Similarly, icicles at the edges of streams and in waterfalls can lift otherwise ordinary shots into a whole new dimension.

On really cold mornings, lake edges start to freeze, providing abstract patterns with overlapping layers of ice just beginning to form. Pop a macro lens on your camera, fix it on the tripod and look closely for patterns in the ice. The edge of the ice can give great shapes, too. Look for leaves caught on or in the ice as well, or bubbles given off by underwater plant life that has frozen in the ice surface.

To see through some of the icy layers to the details below, a polarising filter can be useful to reduce reflection from the surface of the ice.

For a waterfall to freeze, it needs to get really cold, but where waterfalls, or tumbles over rocks, it creates turbulence and splashes up over surrounding rocks and vegetation. These areas freeze into crystal-like caps over rocks, icy stalagmites on grass or chandelier-like structures on large waterfalls. Even where water drips off the edges of peat bog into streams, in cold spells, these can form wonderful icicles which, after water levels drop slightly, hang magically above the surface of the water.

Where there is still moving water in the photo, try a range of shutter speeds to contrast the frozen ice with the flow of the water - or even the ripples in the stream. Use of a polarising filter will take reflections off the water to show it as darker, contrasting with the whiteness of the ice, although sometimes reflections in the water are just as important as the ice itself! A telephoto zoom may help you to crop close without risking a slip and fall into very cold water.

Remember, where there is a predominance of white tones, they are likely to confuse your camera meter, so be prepared to add about a stop exposure. Conversely, highlights on ice against a dark background may blow easily, so keep a close eye on your histograms.

Ice will hang about more in shaded areas, so watch your white balance to avoid your whites turning out with a blue cast.

Finally - watch your step, scrambling around icy edges of lakes, or near waterfalls in sub-zero temperatures can be very slippery underfoot, so be careful not to fall in, or worse, let your camera topple in either; but find some icy margins and create some exciting pictures.

Article by John Gravett of Lakeland Photographic Holidays.

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Win an Atomos StudioSonic Mic + Headphones Bundle!

StudioSonic Shotgun Microphone

The Atomos StudioSonic Shotgun Microphone is a professional-grade, dual-mode mic designed for filmmakers, journalists and creators. It offers both wireless 2.4 GHz operation and wired connections via locking USB-C or 3.5 mm jack, making it remarkably versatile. The 48 kHz/24-bit super-cardioid condenser captures focused, broadcast-quality dialogue while built-in 75 Hz and 150 Hz cut filters, a high-frequency boost and manual gain control let you banish unwanted noise. An OLED status screen displays levels and battery life. It delivers up to 8 hours wirelessly or 50 hours wired, with ultra-low latency (< 20 ms).

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StudioSonic Production Headphones

The Atomos StudioSonic Production Headphones are professional grade wired, over-ear headphones tailored for creators, filmmakers, and audio professionals. Equipped with 50 mm high-resolution drivers, they deliver a clean, uncoloured sound across a stunning 10 Hz–40 kHz frequency range — letting you hear every nuance. With 105 dB sensitivity and a modest ~38 Ω impedance, they drive easily without an external amp. The closed-back design offers passive isolation, while 180° swivel ear cups support one-ear monitoring. A detachable 2m coiled cable and dual 3.5 mm/6.3 mm plugs ensure compatibility and flexibility in any setup.

MSRP: £165 ex VAT / £198 inc VAT

Atomos Audio StudioSonic Range

Today's Prize Atomos StudioSonic Mic + Headphones Bundle!

Win an Atomos Audio Duo: StudioSonic Shotgun Mic + StudioSonic Production Headphones!

Atomos Audio StudioSonic Range

As a thanks to all of you who support the site by purchasing Plus Membership, you will receive 2 entries per draw.

Also, a huge thank you to all of our members, old and new, Plus and Free, for being part of our amazing community and to those clients who have supported us this year, through continuing tough economic circumstances. It's certainly been another challenging year, so thanks - we couldn't have made it through 2025 without you!

Wishing you all a lovely Christmas and here’s hoping 2026 will be healthy and happy all round. The ePHOTOzine Team.

[PRIZE_ENTRY]7014[/PRIZE_ENTRY]

Light painting is something you can try at any time of year but as Christmas day is just around the corner, we thought we'd try light painting our own Christmas decorations and shapes. Quite a bit of trial and error was involved but it was fun never the less!
 

Gear Suggestions:

• You need a camera with a long exposure mode - ideally one with a B (Bulb) setting that lets you shoot for longer shutter speeds.
• Remote release to lock the shutter open.
• Tripod – you need a sturdy tripod so you don’t get camera shake.
• Warm clothing – it’s cold out there!
• Torch – help you see the buttons on your camera.
• Light Source that can act as a 'paint brush'.

Set Up

Setup your tripod and camera, ensuring it's focused before you take your shots. If you want to make it look like you have decorations on your house, focus on a wall but we found it easier to focus on a person who was light painting directly towards the camera rather than make it look like a house was decorated. It’s up to you if you want your painter in the shot. If you do, make sure they stand still.

If the camera cannot focus in the dark use your torch to light the part of the house or person who is helping you decorate so your camera can adjust.

If you want your house wall, window etc. in the shot but it doesn’t show up well enough in your final frame take two exposures: one of the light you’re painting and one of the house and merge them together in post-production. Or, try adding a touch of flash just before the end of the light trail shot to illuminate the part of the wall you’re painting on. Cameras with built-in flash that have a rear curtain sync mode are ideal for this aspect, as the flash automatically fires at the end of the exposure.
 

Practice

Ask the person who is helping you to practice drawing their decoration, checking that the time they take doesn’t exceed your exposure time if you’re not using the B-setting. You also want to make sure the shape doesn’t go outside the frame. If this happens make your lens wider or just ask your assistant to draw smaller shapes. You could also move your set-up back if you have more room to play with.
 

First Shot

Get the camera ready to shoot. Make sure the shutter speed is at 30sec if you're not using the B-setting then hit the shutter button, telling your helper to start drawing at the same time you do this. Make sure they write in an even flow ensuring the shape/shapes are joined up.

You can use various light sources as your 'paint brush', however we found a bright torch the most useful tool. You can use coloured gels or even translucent sweet wrappers to change the colour of the light you are painting with. Alternatively, open up your images in Photoshop and adjust the Hue, ensuring 'colorize' is selected.
 

Check The Image

It may take a few tries to get the image you’re after (we ended up laughing at our results several times!). It can be hard to match the two ends of a shape together and to get it looking neat. If your Christmas lights are not bright enough ask your assistant to write slower or open up the aperture. If they’re shining too much or are too thick, ask them to write faster or close the aperture down. You could always try drawing a chalk outline to follow on the wall. Just make sure you don’t press on too hard to make it visible.

 

Now, photo editing is easier than ever with the help of modern AI tools. For someone with no prior experience, they can achieve polished photos at the touch of a button. The latest photo editor AI tools have altered the way many beginners and creators, as well as small businesses, build and design their content. Whether they need a photo repair or a complete photo editing, these tools can perform complicated edits with fast efficiency.

Here we’ll review the 5 best AI photo editors for quick and efficient smart editing for all types of users. Let's get to the point and find the best tool for you.

 

1. HitPaw FotorPea — Top Recommended AI Photo Editor 

HitPaw FotorPea is ranked the number one AI photo editor because of its combination of robust AI technology and streamlined interface. Anyone can use this tool with no prior experience; this tool is designed to assist any type of user. It is the only photo AI editor in the competition that can do a wider variety of functions with greater precision and provide results in less time.

 

 

Key AI Features 

• Sharpens images and improves clarity using intelligent AI upscaling.
• Create and edit images using Nano Banana Pro technology.
• Backgrounds are seamlessly removed for easy and clean custom replacements.
• Quickly and seamlessly removes unneeded objects from images without distortion.
• Portraits are enhanced in a realistic manner using proportional corrections.
• Light and colors are adjusted for a better natural look.
• Edits are shown in real time for immediate previews.
• Outputs are quickly generated using optimized processing powered by the GPU.

 

Exclusive AI Tools You Don’t Get in Others

• AI Face Restore: Restore old photos in a natural-looking way.
• AI Style Transfer: Get your photographs reimagined in the styles of famous artworks.
• High-quality photo AI editor filters: AI-crafted filters that are smooth and creative.
• Product Photo Cleanup: Excellent for store owners that require clean and polished product images.
• Viral Template Library: Pre-designed template collections to help your social media and ad campaigns go viral.

 

Best For

Users who want fast, clean, and high-quality photo edits without learning complex tools should use HitPaw FotorPea. It works well with beginners, creators, e-commerce sellers, brands, and anyone who needs sharp portraits, clear pictures of products, or quick cleaning of backgrounds and objects.

 

2. PIXLR — A Quick Online Photo Editor

PIXLR is an AI-powered, user-friendly, browser-based photo editing tool. It allows users to edit photos by enhancing the quality, creating visuals, and designing templates while also allowing you to remove the background of the image.

 

 

Key AI Features 

• Seamlessly erase backgrounds with AI.
• Remove any unwanted objects with AI.
• AI allows photos to be extended and refined.
• Make images crisp, larger, and clear.
• AI sharpens images, resulting in clear and detailed photos.

 

Best For

It is usually best for users that want to quickly edit photos without having to download software to their desktop. PIXLR is best for users who want to use the browser for photo editing without the need for advanced features with AI assistance.

 

3. Fotor — A Popular Photo Editor AI 

Fotor is made for users that want speedy edits. The online browser-based editor does quick and effective editing without the need for advanced editing skills. Fotor allows the user to enhance and edit photos and generate AI images all in a few clicks.

 

 

Key AI Features

• You can enhance photo quality automatically with just a click.
• Backgrounds can be removed instantly and cleanly.
• Unwanted objects can be erased without harming details.
• Creative images can be generated from text prompts.
• Photos can be expanded for wider scenes with AI.
• Portraits can be turned into avatars in a variety of styles.

 

Best For

For beginners and social media editors seeking a quick and easy photo editor, Fotor is your go-to online option. It’s a great option for editing photos subtly, applying AI effects and designing visuals without spending too much time.

 

4. EzRemove — Best for Background Editing Tasks

EzRemove is the fast online photo editor created to remove backgrounds with just a few clicks and add some AI magic by enhancing them. Just upload a photo, tell it what you want to see and choose a model. You’ll receive a perfect result in no time!

 

 

Key AI Features

• High-precision background removal to instantly isolate subjects.
• Quick background replacement to swap out the scene in seconds.
• Seamless object removal to clean up photos by deleting unwanted items or people.

 

Best For

This photo editor is perfect for users who want to make quick edits like background changes, removing unwanted people or objects, or simple changes made with the use of AI, without having to use professional editing software.

 

5. PicsArt — Creative AI Editing for Social Media

One of the most popular creative platforms, PicsArt has a full library of AI tools to make your edits completely on-trend. Perfect for people who don’t want to learn complicated photo editing software.

 

Key AI Features

• AI background removal for seamless scene replacement.
• AI image generation for instant visual creation.
• AI sharpens and enhances for faster improvements.
• AI replace and AI sketch for creative image overhauls.
• AI style transfer and unusual photo filters for special photo aesthetics.
• AI image extender for photos with added realistic whitespace.

 

Best For

PicsArt is geared towards social media creators and influencers, micro brands, and anyone needing to quickly create stylized, trending, and creative visual content for social media platforms and digital marketing. 

 

AI Photo Editor Feature Comparison

 

Feature / Tool HitPaw FotorPea Fotor PIXLR PicsArt EzRemove Core Focus Pro Restoration & Upscaling All-in-One Design & Edit Web-based Photoshop Creative & Social Editing Simple Removal AI Enhance Models Excellent (Nano Banana Pro Model) Strong (Mature AI Enlarger) Moderate (Basic Sharpen/Denoise) Strong (AI Enhance) None (Removal focus) Face Restoration High Precision (Best for blur/old photos) Supported (Has "Face Unblur") Supported (Has "Face Unblur") Good (Strong retouching) Not Supported BG / Object Removal Clean Edges Excellent (Magic Eraser is precise) Excellent (Magic Eraser is precise) Excellent Strong (Core feature) AI Image Generation Yes (High Quality) Yes (Very mature feature) Yes (Text-to-Image) Yes (Text-to-Image) No / Weak Batch Processing Yes (Local processing) Yes (Web Batch Editor) Yes (Has Batch Editor) Yes (Limited) Limited One-Click Auto Fix Yes Yes (1-Tap Enhance) Yes (Auto Fix) Yes No Processing Mode Local Software (GPU accelerated, fast) Cloud-Based (No hardware req., online) Cloud / Browser Mobile / Cloud Cloud Ease of Use Very Easy Easy Moderate Easy Very Easy

 

If your workflow is centered on creating posters, applying trendy filters, or general graphic design, tools like Fotor and PicsArt are excellent choices.

However, when you are tackling truly blurry, noise-ridden images, or a large volume of old photographs that demand serious restoration, HitPaw FotorPea emerges as the undisputed champion of this deep-dive comparison. It takes the most complex AI computations and simplifies them into a 'one-click' workflow, leveraging powerful local processing (GPU acceleration) for rendering speeds and output quality that web-based tools simply can't match. Crucially, its deep optimization for facial restoration and detailed upscaling makes it a far more reliable first choice than any generalist editor for the core task of photo revival and rescue.

 

FAQs

1. Can AI photo editors really improve image quality?

Yes, modern AI image editors can automatically make photos look clearer by restoring details and fixing lighting. They can also upscale images with low resolution, and fix any blurriness. Most of the work is done without manual interference.

 

2. Are AI photo editors beginner-friendly?

Yes, most AI tools allow for ease of editing. Users can simply upload an image, select an AI function or tool, and let the AI handle the rest of the steps. These characteristics of AI photo editors make such tools ideal for beginners as well as professional editors.

 

3. Which AI photo editor is best for background or object removal?

EzRemove, Fotor, and PicsArt do an adequate job, but fully-featured editors like HitPaw FotorPea tend to do a much better job with accuracy and cleanliness for both background and object removal tasks.

 

4. Do AI photo editors support advanced creative tasks like generating images?

Yes, editors like HitPaw, FotorPena, PIXLR, VisualGPT, and PicsArt all have support for text-to-image creation, various styles of AI-generated art, and a number of other tools for other creative tasks.

 

5. Are AI photo editors free to use?

Yes, some tools like HitPaw FotorPea offer free credits on first download and some tools offer basic features for free, but premium AI features may require a subscription.

 

Final Thoughts

AI photo editors have revolutionized the photo editing process. Rather than going through lengthy manual steps. Each tool on this list can help you with photo improvements, but HitPaw FotorPea definitely shines the most. It offers the best blend of AI features, speed, precision, and usability. Whether you are using photo editing software for the first time, are a creator, a business owner, or fall somewhere in between, HitPaw FotorPea offers the best usability. 

For a photo AI editor that's highly multifunctional, includes seamless enhancement, and offers creative editing, HitPaw FotorPea should be your first pick.

 

A wonderful photo can lose its appeal when something unwanted appears in the background, like a random background figure, a signboard, or a background object that you didn’t see when taking the picture. These distractions take attention away from the center of the picture, so background objects need to be removed completely. But the challenge is to do this without ruining the overall quality. The old methods of editing pictures can leave blur marks, frayed edges, or unnatural patches.

Nowadays, AI has made this task easy, allowing people to remove objects from an image, ensuring that images remain sharp and neat. In this guide, we explore easy techniques and the most appropriate tools to provide the desired end result.

 

Why Removing Objects Without Losing Quality Is Tricky

 

One of the most challenging photo editing tasks is removing objects from a photo while ensuring each background element appears natural. A few minor mistakes can compromise the entire edit and leave the photo looking fake.

 

• Background patterns that have been improperly filled or distorted make the edit obvious.
• Perfect lighting and shadow matching is a vital step. A mismatch can make the edit look easily identifiable.
• Seamless blending of the colors around the removed area is essential. Failing to do so will make the photo appear to have been edited.
• Manual edits tend to fail because textures such as grass, waves, and bricks need to be rebuilt, and this is a difficult step.
• Basic tools tend to leave noticeable marks on the photo and create blurs because they cannot fill the void correctly.

 

How AI Tools Made Clean Object Removal Easier

 

AI has revolutionized photo editing, making the removal of objects quicker, more seamless, and more accurate.

AI analyzes the entire scene to understand the patterns, shapes, and depth to discern the structure and edges of the image. By matching the colors and recreating the contextual background, the object gets removed while other nearby details are undisturbed.

AI avoids the hassle of having to manually integrate the image because natural consistency and smoothness are incorporated. The outcome is clean without patches of blur, and the same quality of sharpness is retained as the original. 

 

5 Best AI Tools to Remove Objects from Photos

 

The right AI tool can help remove object from picture quicker and feel more seamless. Modern-day editors erase distractions using smart detection and background reconstruction, resulting in little to no image quality loss. So, let's explore the 5 best tools that help with unwanted object removal.

 

1. HitPaw Photo Object Remover (Most Recommended)

The HitPaw Photo Object Remover is world-renowned for providing top-of-the-line and high-quality edits with minimal effort required. Regardless of the scene (like portraits, travel photography, product photography, or even old and damaged photos), HitPaw removes objects from photos with precision and sharpness while still looking natural.

 

 

Key Features

• Remove unwanted things with just one click using advanced AI.
• Remove background and change colors automatically.
• Get smooth and clean edits with edge smoothing.
• Edit portraits by removing imperfections like blemishes and wrinkles.
• AI can detect and remove unwanted people and things with high accuracy.
• AI restoration to repair scratches and faded photos.

 

Extra Benefits of Using HitPaw

• Very easy to use and gets exceptional results quickly.
• Keeps the original quality of the photo intact.
• All kinds of photos can be worked on.
• Produces highly realistic results without any visible editing.

 

2. AirBrush Photo Object Remover

AirBrush provides a seamless experience when removing unwanted objects in photos with the AI-powered Magic Eraser. Users are able to receive high-quality photos in a few seconds and with little effort.

 

Key Features

• AI-powered Magic Eraser for the immediate removal of objects.
• It instantly processes images to provide a more efficient editing experience.
• Great for social media marketing and e-commerce photos.
• Easily erases people and unwanted distractions.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

 

3. Picsart Photo Object Remover

Picsart uses fast AI to remove unwanted objects, people, texts, or watermarks, seamlessly blending backgrounds and yielding neat results. While it makes photo editing much easier, it is suitable for all skill levels.

 

Key Features

• The brush selection tool makes the process easier.
• Automatic background blending.
• Download images without loss in quality.
• Suitable for travel, product, portrait, and real estate.
• Makes it possible for novices to easily remove unwanted clutter from images.

 

4. PhotoRoom Photo Object Remover

PhotoRoom is great for anyone looking to remove unwanted objects quickly from product photos. It's ideal for e-commerce sellers and brands looking to streamline polished visuals, as it quickly removes unwanted objects with simple swipe AI.

 

Key Features

• Remove objects fast for clean product images.
• Background fill that fits brand colors.
• This feature is best for wide range of products, including fashion, furniture, beauty, and food.
• Batch editing tools that save time for busy sellers.
• Print-ready exports for web stores, ads, and marketplaces.
• Great for beginners.

 

NoteGPT Photo Object Remover

NoteGPT offers an AI Object Remover entirely for free and with no sign up that swiftly edits any photo to remove unwanted people, text, and other distractions. Because it works in the browser, it is accessible for those needing quick, seamless edits on the fly.

 

Key Features

• One-click AI removal of people, objects, and text.
• Natural results with smart background repairs.
• JPG, PNG, and WEBP files are supported.
• High-resolution results.
• Fast, browser-based with no file installations.
• Instant edits completely free.

 

Steps to Remove Unwanted Objects with HitPaw Photo Object Remover

 

HitPaw Photo Object Remover stands out for being fast, easy to use, and for its stellar results. The software removes distractions in an image by cleaning up the photo with seamless and realistic edits. Follow the below steps to ensure the most highly refined results.

 

Step 1 – Download and Install

Download the HitPaw Photo Object Remover from the official website and install the file on your computer. The setup is straightforward, and the tool is usable within minutes with no complicated configuring needed.

 

Step 2 – Choose Remove Objects

After installation, open the app, it will show you the two options: “Remove Objects” and “Remove Background.” Click on “Remove Objects” to proceed.

 

 

Step 3 – Upload the Photo

Click on “Remove Objects” and choose the highest-resolution version of your picture to maintain maximum clarity during the removal process.

 

 

Step 4 – Highlight the Object to Remove

If you want to remove an object from the photo to make the main subject stand out, you can use the brush tool, an AI-based selection tool, or the erase option — whichever suits your needs best.

 

 

Step 5 – Let the AI Process the Area

Once you select the area to remove, it will be automatically prepped for removal, and all you have to do is click the preview button. The AI will automatically recreate the background and do it very naturally.

 

Step 6 – Save in High Quality

If you are satisfied with the result, export the image. HitPaw will allow you to finish editing your photo without any compression, so all the details will be preserved when you save.

 

 

Why Choose HitPaw Photo Object Remover for the Best Results

 

HitPaw Photo Object Remover is recognized as the best in the market because its AI comprehends the entire photo instead of just a small selected section.

It does not leave behind any blur marks, rough edges, or color mismatches when removing objects. The tool works flawlessly on complex backgrounds, portraits, travel pictures, product images, and old damaged photos.

For beginners and creators who need fast studio cleanup that does not require professional editing, HitPaw is the best tool because the image quality remains crisp after editing, unlike other tools.

 

FAQs

Q: Does removing an object from a photo reduce the image resolution?

Not at all. Powerful AI editors typically preserve the original resolution when editing. Quality degradation is typically the result of low resolution when editing, or when using a very compressed format.

 

Q: Can I remove multiple objects from a photo at the same time?

Yes, most AI tools let you highlight a number of areas at once, and the AI removes them all in a single action.

 

Q: Is it possible to restore mistakes if the removal doesn’t look right?

Yes, you can revert the changes, modify the selection, and let the AI run again until the outcome looks seamless.

 

Q: Are AI object removers safe for personal photos?

The more reputable tools like HitPaw Photo Object Remover process images in a protected way and do not save your images. It is best to use reputable tools to keep your information safe.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The removal of unwanted objects from photos is possible with just a few clicks, and no expert editing skills or time-consuming manual work is necessary. Modern AI tools like HitPaw Photo Object Remover allow you to clean unwanted objects in a photo while preserving a natural look. Whether you need to edit photos for business, social media, or personal purposes, HitPaw is one of the best tools you can use to strike a good balance between quality, speed, and ease of use.

 

 

14–17 January 2026 • Novotel London West, Hammersmith Trade Show 15–17 January – FREE ENTRY

 

The UK’s most exciting photography Convention is back — bigger, bolder and packed with more inspiration, education and industry powerhouses than ever before.

 

The 2026 London Photo Convention & Trade Show brings thousands of photographers together under one roof for four days of hands-on learning, live demos, exclusive deals, and world-class speakers. If you’re serious about your photography — this is where you need to be.

FREE Trade Show: 15–17 January — Meet the Biggest Brands in Photography

Get ready for three electric days on the Trade Show floor, with leading camera and lighting brands showcasing their latest kit. Expect:

• Hands-on access to the newest cameras & lenses
• Live demonstrations from top pros
• Expert advice from manufacturers
• Show-only offers and exclusive discounts
• Retailers showcasing must-have accessories

Whether you're upgrading, testing, comparing or just curious — the Trade Show is 100% free to attend and absolutely packed.

Register for FREE tickets!

 

 

Over 200 Hours of Training with Masterclasses & Superclasses

If you're hungry to learn, the Convention’s education programme is unmatched.

Masterclasses

Dive into a huge lineup of practical, inspiring and business-boosting sessions covering:

• Portraits • Weddings • Lighting
• Wildlife • Macro • Post-production
• Creative storytelling • Branding
• Business growth for photographers

Top photographers, award-winning educators and industry leaders share the techniques and insights that elevate your photography fast.

Superclasses

Want hands-on training with the best in the business?

The Superclasses deliver small-group, practical workshops with some of the most respected names in the industry. Limited spaces — these sell out fast every single year.

 

 

Exclusive Offer

Save 10% with code epz10 on all class tickets!

  The Photography Event You Simply Can’t Afford to Miss

If you want to improve your skills, grow your business, network with other creatives and immerse yourself in the world of photography — this is your event.

 

Join thousands of photographers for the ultimate start to 2026. 14–17 January • London Trade Show FREE Masterclass Passes & Superclasses available now

 

Book your tickets now!

 

- Partner Content - 

The Ricoh GR IV and Leica Q3 are two of the best fixed lens cameras at their respective price points. (Products not shown to scale)

 

It’s true that almost any camera can be used for street and candid photography, but it’s also true that some models are better suited to the discipline than others.

Before we discuss a selection of used cameras and lenses available from MPB, let’s start by looking at the key credentials of a street camera. 

 

A street camera needs to be user-friendly. That means quick start-up, responsive autofocus, and plenty of customisation potential. Exposure for this reflection shot was 1/4000sec at f/2.4 and ISO 400. Image by Will Cheung.

 

Size is high up the list. Of course, you can shoot street and candids with medium-format kit and large full-frame DSLRs and that’s fine if you prefer that route, but there’s much to be said for a more compact, lighter camera. If you’re going to spend hours walking around looking for decisive moments, it makes sense to lighten your load. Some shooters prefer to tote a full outfit in a backpack on a day out, but a shoulder bag with an extra lens or two, spare batteries and cards is all you need. It’s much more comfortable and means you have more energy to concentrate on your photography too.

A smaller camera is also discreet, so you look more like a snap-shooter rather than street photographer.

 

A solid high ISO performance comes in mighty useful for street photography. In this case, ISO 3200 was used allowing an exposure of 1/25sec at f/1.4 in low lighting. Image by Will Cheung.

 

While resolution is important, having more megapixels gives you more headroom when you need to crop significantly to produce the required composition. That said, in street work, getting a composition with the subject a decent size in the frame to avoid wasting pixels is a required skill. So, whether you have 20- or 61-megapixels at your disposal, it’s enough for most needs.

More important than resolution is a good high ISO performance. You might be shooting in bright sun one minute and in gloom the next, and with the need for fast shutter speeds for grabshots, you’ll need a camera that gives high quality images at ISO 1600 and 3200. Shooting at such speeds pushes up noise levels but recent cameras can still give exhibition quality images at ISO 3200, especially with the potential of denoising software.

The final feature to mention in this brief overview is autofocus. Modern AF is amazingly effective and for street work, your life can be made easier if you have the extra potential of human detection and eye AF. An accurate AF system will certainly push up your ‘keepers’ rate.

 

 

Sony’s most recent fixed lens compact is the high-end RX1R III, a 61-megapixel machine fitted with a Zeiss 35mm f/2 lens. MPB has ‘like-new’ stock with prices from £3449.

 

While there’s plenty of older used cameras to consider, we’ve mostly focused on more recent products that are currently available new in the shops.

If a powerful yet pocketable camera appeals, look no further than the Ricoh GR series. The latest model is the GR IV, a 25.7-megapixel APS-C format compact that’s so new it’s still on pre-order with some retailers. Skip back a generation and the GR IIIx has 24.2 megapixels and a fixed lens giving roughly a 40mm field of view in full-frame. It sells for £999 new with the upgraded GR IIIx HDF on the shelves at £1099.

Using MPB’s search engine, a Ricoh GR IIIx is available for £884 and a GR IIIx HDF for £939, both in ‘like-new’ condition. 

 

Many cameras are weather-resistant, so shooting in inclement conditions is no problem, and all you have to do is keep raindrops off the lens front. Exposure was 1/1250sec at f/2 and ISO 1250. Image by Will Cheung.

 

Following on the fixed lens theme, next camera family to consider is the Fujifilm X100 series. The X100VI is the latest addition and with 40.2 megapixels, a 6-stop benefit image stabiliser, the usual Film Simulation picture modes and a 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent in full-frame), it’s a powerful premium compact. MPB has a range of used models priced from £1269 in excellent condition to £1369 for a like-new sample. 

Ascending the price scale, next comes the Sony RX1R III, a 61-megapixel full-frame compact boasting a Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens. This camera might be a recent arrival, but MPB has like-new used samples from £3449.

Let’s end our look at fixed lens compacts with another high-end model, the Leica Q3. This technological marvel boasts 60 megapixels, a top ISO of 100,000 and a Summilux 28mm f/1.7 APSH lens with optical stabilisation. If a 28mm is too wide, the Q3 43 is fitted with the ideal standard focal length lens, the APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH. MPB has excellent condition Q3 models from £4449 and the Q3 43 from £4539.

OM System and Panasonic are the driving forces behind the Micro Four Thirds format and both brands offer excellent kit well suited to street photography. This is the OM-5 Mark II sitting next to the OM System 20mm f/1.4.

 

Let’s move onto interchangeable lens cameras that have great street shooting potential. 

For compactness, performance and usability, OM Systems and Panasonic Micro Four Thirds cameras come into consideration. There’s a lot to choose so we went with the 20.4 megapixel OM System OM-5 Mark II partnered by the OM System 20mm f/1.4 lens. The lens is a cracker and a great performer even wide open and a decent price at £489 from MPB. A wider option is the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN.

Fujifilm recently introduced the X-E5 which MPB has in stock from £1209 body only, but a cheaper option is the X-E4. It has a lower resolution compared with the X-E5 at 26.1 megapixels, and there’s no in-body stabiliser but it’s great value at £869 from MPB in ‘like-new’ condition. Add the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R lens, available in excellent condition from MPB at £299, and you have a powerful, portable and very capable street camera.

 

Seeing a picture and then having the patience to wait for elements to come together are core ingredients in street work. Exposure was 1/210sec at f/5 and ISO 400. Image by Will Cheung.

 

We finish our street camera round up with the 33-megapixel Sony A7C II and 61-megapixel A7CR, both tiny cameras given that they are both full-frame. MPB has a stock of used models at £1589 and £2169 respectively. 

Sony’s E-Mount is very well supported by third-party brands as well as Sony, so choice is not an issue. The E 35mm f/1.8 OSS and FE 28mm f/2 are two Sony primes that match the two cameras nicely, and MPB has stocks at £234 and £189 respectively.

Sony’s tiny A7C II packs a mighty punch and is brimming with the latest imaging technology.

 

  News from MPB

MPB is regularly updating its imaging kit reviews and recommendations for a wide range of subject genres. In fact, the latest batch of reviews includes the Fujifilm X100VI and eight tiny cameras with viewfinders are highlighted in a Selects buyers guide. If we’ve whetted your appetite for the right kit for street shooting, check out the X100VI review here and the Selects: Top 8 Tiny Cameras with Viewfinders here.

  MPB Explained

You need kit to take photographs and produce videos, and taking the used route is a cost-effective way of making the most of your budget and keeping up with the latest developments in imaging technology.

MPB is one of the biggest used retailers with bases in the UK, Germany and the USA.

Trading with MPB the process is fair, safe, painless and incredibly easy.

Whether you have kit to sell, want to make a purchase or part exchange, start by going to the MPB website which is intuitive and straightforward to use.

If you have kit to trade, just start typing the name in and a list of suggestions from MPB’s huge database will appear. If a name on that list matches your product click on it and add its condition; if not, continue typing in the whole name and condition.

It’s worth bearing in mind that MPB’s database covers much more than cameras and lenses so if you have, for example, a photo backpack, tripod or filters to sell these can be shown as you type in their name too.

With all your kit listed, add contact details and a quote will appear in your inbox soon afterwards, although manually entered items will take one working day.

If you are happy with the quote, accept it and follow the instructions to get the kit ready for courier collection on a day to suit you. For higher-value deals, an MPB account manager will also be in touch, so you have a personal point of contact if you have any queries.

Once received by MPB, you will get a notification and after checking by its product specialists you will receive a final quote. This can vary from the original quote if there is a missing item —like a battery not being supplied—or your assessed condition differs from the actual condition.

A quote can go down, but it can also increase if the kit’s condition is better than your assessment.

The whole process doesn’t take long and MPB are in touch by e-mail at every step so you’re never in the dark, and only when you are totally happy with the deal, pass on your payment details or pay the balance in the case of part-exchange. Either way, the money or your new kit will be with you soon after.

Get A Quote From MPB Today

 

About MPB

• MPB is the largest global platform to buy, sell and trade used photo and video kit.
• MPB is the simple, safe and circular way to trade, upgrade and get paid.
• MPB is not a marketplace, instead buying directly from visual storytellers and evaluating all items before reselling MPB-approved kit.
• MPB's dynamic pricing engine provides the right price upfront for all items.
• Circularity is at the centre of MPB, promoting sustainability, diversity and inclusion in everything they do.
• MPB prioritises inclusive recruitment and supports employees with extensive training and development. They promote inclusive visual storytelling and an inclusive circular economy.
• MPB's business model is 100% circular. All packaging is 100% plastic-free. Their cloud-based platform uses 100% renewable electricity.
• MPB recirculates more than 570,000 products annually
• MPB provides first-class customer service. Customers can receive support through their Help Centre or by speaking directly with a kit expert.
• MPB's product specialists are trusted by thousands of visual storytellers in the UK.
• MPB is rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 37,000 reviews.

Visit The MPB Website

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Win a Samsung Portable SSD T7 Shield

Power Your Festive Adventures with the Samsung Portable SSD T7 Shield

Stay powered, protected, and ready to capture every moment this festive season with the Samsung Portable SSD T7 Shield, the ultimate companion for creators, travellers, and anyone who needs fast, reliable storage on the go. And to spread some festive cheer, one lucky reader will win their very own T7 Shield to store their memories in style.

Weighing just 98g, the T7 Shield delivers ultra-fast transfer speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2, making it perfect for storing and editing high-resolution photos and videos, even 4K and 8K content.

Engineered for durability, the T7 Shield is shock-resistant, able to withstand drops of up to 3 meters, and IP65-rated for water and dust resistance. Whether you are working outdoors, travelling abroad, or capturing festive adventures, your data stays safe wherever you go.

Its heat-managing rubber exterior with Dynamic Thermal Guard ensures stable performance during large file transfers, while compatibility across PC, Mac, Android smartphones, and gaming consoles makes it a versatile solution for both work and play. Up to 9.5x faster than external HDDs, it’s the ideal drive for anyone seeking portable performance without compromise.

(MSRP starting from £118.79)

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Today's Prize Win a 1TB Samsung Portable SSD T7 Shield!

Enter for your chance to win the rugged and super-fast Samsung T7 Shield, the perfect way to store and protect your files on the go. Available in three stylish colours (beige, black, and blue), it features rapid transfer speeds, PC and Android support, and comes with both USB Type-C-to-C and Type-C-to-A cables.

Compact, durable, and backed by a three-year limited warranty - don't miss your chance to make it yours!

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As a thanks to all of you who support the site by purchasing Plus Membership, you will receive 2 entries per draw.

Also, a huge thank you to all of our members, old and new, Plus and Free, for being part of our amazing community and to those clients who have supported us this year, through continuing tough economic circumstances. It's certainly been another challenging year, so thanks - we couldn't have made it through 2025 without you!

Wishing you all a lovely Christmas and here’s hoping 2026 will be healthy and happy all round. The ePHOTOzine Team.

[PRIZE_ENTRY]7013[/PRIZE_ENTRY]

 

Photo by David Pritchard

 

Today we turn your attention to the local church – or at least one that is lit up. Not every church is so you may have to drive around to find one if you do not already know of a suitable location.

A wide-angle lens will find plenty of use for this subject. Get in close to fill the frame and do not stress out about converging verticals – you may be able to straighten these out in Photoshop if they annoy you.

A wide-angle used from a distance will also let you include traffic trails and illuminated signs so do have a wander for different viewpoints. The tripod and the remote release are important tools to have for this sort of work, too.

Many churches are locked up, which is a sad reflection of the times, but for night shooting this is not an issue.

The important thing is to be on the spot as day gives way to night. That way you get colour in the sky while benefiting from the lit foreground, which brings us neatly to timing. If you subject’s lights do not come on until later in the evening the black sky will look too stark. You might have to turn up and hope the lights come on before all colours drains out of the sky.

An auto-exposure mode is fine. Most cameras have shutter speeds to 30secs or B (bulb) so use that with a lockable release for longer shutter speeds.

Try a few test shots in auto white-balance and see what you think. The warm colour cast can look fine but if you want something more neutral use the incandescent preset or even use the Kelvin control, setting a low value. 

                                                                                                                           

Anthropics Technology is giving ePHOTOzine members the chance to save on the new PortraitPro 24.

Enhance your portrait work for pro-style portraits with new features:

 

Key New Features:

• New gender and age detector
• Mouth inpainting & teeth replacer
• Face recovery
• Skin and hair masks
• Glasses reflection remover

 

Improved Workflow:

• Seamlessly switch between faces in group shots.
• Effortlessly share presets.
• Utilise a streamlined preset search box.
• Explore more image save options.
• (Exclusive to Studio Max) Apply multiple presets to each picture.

 

"This feature alone [Glasses Reflection Remover] would pay for the upgrade after repairing just a couple of shots spoiled by the reflections in a subject's glasses, mainly in time saving." 

— Professional Image-maker

 

Buy PortraitPro 24 or upgrade at 50% off, plus get an exclusive extra 30% off with the code BFEZ30. There's never been a better time to streamline your portrait-editing workflow.

See Anthropics Bundles for further savings. Code BFEZ30 is valid on any Anthropics software including PortraitPro, PortraitPro Body, LandscapePro, and Smart Photo Editor, or Bundles.

Don’t miss out — this deal ends soon!

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