We might all hanker after the latest camera and video kit, but the latest and greatest all have their foundations in what has come before.
There are the Classics that never grow old, the Game Changers that introduce essential features, the Road Tested workhorses relied on by the pros, the Trendsetters that influence and of course the Iconic models we all wish to own.
Recognising the gear that stands out, Brighton based used specialist MPB is launching the Photo and Video Kit Hall of Fame. A publicly voted contest to award and recognise the worlds best photographic kit.
Twenty-five cameras, lenses and accessories have been selected with each chosen for its contribution to the advancement of photography, quality and, let’s not forget, desirability.
The Hall of Fame has been split into five categories, Classic, Game Changer, Road Tested, Trendsetter and Iconic.
Within each category a shortlist of five items has been selected, so now’s your time to vote. But, first, let’s take a closer look at the full line-up.
The first category is dedicated to those cameras and lenses that set the benchmarks that all other kit follows. While the items in this category might not all be cutting edge or the latest release, they’re all a valuable choice for anyone starting in photography.
Canon EOS 5D Mk III
The Canon EOS 5D III appealed to photographers and videographers in equal measure which led to it’s five-year reign. It’s still a great camera and an ideal choice for anyone getting into photography.
Nikon D700
The tough build quality, size and speed of the Nikon D700 meant that this DSLR appealed to professional photographers. The feature set is still above many models out there, and it’s a great choice if you’re just starting professional photography.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8
From wildlife to the sport, events and even weddings, the Canon EF 70-200 f/2.8 is an absolute essential. The focus range and features of this lens make it a versatile kit bag essential.
Sony A7R
When the Sony A7R arrived, people took note. This camera heralded the start of the major transition from DSLR to mirrorless cameras. The compact form was matched with an ultra-high-resolution full-frame sensor and outstanding image quality.
Canon 50mm f/1.8
A good 50mm can not be overlooked, and the Canon 50mm f/1.8 is one of the best out there and a regular in many professional and enthusiast kit bags. It may be cheap and cheerful, but this nifty 50 is well worth a look.
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Over the years, there have been many great cameras and accessories, but there are some that stand out more than the rest. These cameras, lenses and drones have marked a turning point bringing in new technology, capabilities, or simply they make photography and videography more accessible.
DJI Mavic 2 Pro
The arrival of the DJI Mavic 2 Pro was a game-changer on many levels. It provided a high-quality, powerful drone that was small enough to fit alongside your kit. The Mavic 2 Pro also provided one of the highest quality cameras seen on any drone at an affordable price.
GoPro HERO
Known to extreme sports enthusiast, this small go-anywhere camera can withstand knocks and scrapes and can be submerged in water. What makes the GoPro Hero stand out is that despite being small, it is capable of capturing outstanding quality video.
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM ART
Sigma’s ART Range of lenses brought quality and style that was usually reserved for far more expensive glass. If you’re looking for a high quality all-round standard creative lens, then look no further than the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM ART.
Panasonic S1H
Panasonic is one of the big names in broadcast cameras, so it’s no wonder that expertise has filtered down the S1H. The Panasonic S1H is the first DSLR-sized camera with the ability to capture 4:2:2 colour and 10-bit video capture.
Sony Alpha A9
Sony’s range of Alpha 7 mirrorless cameras had already reshaped the camera market bringing affordable full-frame sensors to the format. The arrival of the A9 was a pivotal moment with a mirrorless body that provided professionals with the quality and features they needed for the first time.
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When you are working professionally, or on a once in a lifetime adventure, you need the kit that won’t let you down. The Road Tested nominees are the cameras and lenses that you reach for when it matters.
Nikon D810
The Nikon D810 is a firm favourite with professionals, with exceptionally high-resolution quality images and low light performance. The style and control of the D810 follows Nikon’s tried and tested formula and will please anyone looking for absolute quality and reliability.
Canon EOS 1DX Mk II
Need to capture the action then that’s where the Canon EOS 1DX Mk II dominates. This professional-level model mixes perfectly a blend of features and ability that will keep up with any subject you need to capture.
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM
It’s unlikely that you’ll come across a Canon professional that doesn’t have one of these in their kit bag. The Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM has exceptional quality glass and is extremely versatile in all situations.
Nikon SB-900 Speedlight
Need extra light to illuminate your subject? Then check out the Nikon SB-900 Speedlight. Packing in plenty of power and flash options, this hotshoe flash has become a firm favourite with Nikon Pros.
Fujifilm XT-2
The Fujifilm XT-2 is far more than just gorgeous retro looks, its tough build quality and feature-packed specifications has made this camera a firm favourite.
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Some cameras and lenses advance photography and video technology for the better, and then some models simply set a trend of style that others follow. These items set the trend either through style, use or functionality, and have all become photography must-haves.
Fujifilm X100F
The look and style of the Fujifilm X100F was influential in the retro trend that spread across the camera industry. Its compact form and fixed focal length lens has meant that this camera often finds itself sat alongside a professional’s main pro body and kit.
Ricoh GR II
The Ricoh GR is a classic, and the digital release has evolved into one of the most compact feature-packed cameras on the market. With a host of accessories, the Ricoh GR II is the compact camera for serious photographers.
Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM
Canon’s M range of mirrorless cameras are nice and compact, and the Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM is the perfect partner. Featuring an ultra-quiet STM motor this 40mm is ideal as an everyday or video lens for an ultra-compact kit.
Hasselblad X1D-50c
One for the professionals, the Hasselblad X1D-50c features a much sought after medium format sensor. However, what makes this camera special is that it’s about the same size and weight as a DSLR.
Olympus PEN-F
The look and style of the PEN-F links directly back to Olympus’s long heritage as a camera manufacturer. There’s plenty to like about this camera, and it’s packed with advanced features that will appeal to all camera enthusiasts.
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This last category is for the crème de la crème of photo kit. These are the cameras you idolise and wish to own; they’re symbols of quality and inspiration.
Leica M3
Based on the iconic rangefinder design and shape, the Leica M3 is the tool of street and documentary photographers. It takes skill to use but will enable you to capture images like no other.
Mamiya 7 Mk II
The Mamiya 7 Mk II has had a long 30-year history and over that time has a proven track record with many fine art photographers.
Canon EOS 5D
The Canon EOS 5D is digital royalty. It was the world’s first full-frame camera available to the mass market and made high-end digital photography accessible for the first time.
Hasselblad 500CM
No list would be complete without the Hasselblad 500CM. Despite the model’s age it still holds up as one of the best cameras for fine art photography.
Canon 50mm f/0.95
The Canon 50mm f/0.95 is one of the manufacturers most desirable lenses. With a maximum aperture of f/0.95, the lens is known for its premium quality.
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