TIPA announces 2022 World Awards winners

The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) has announced the winners of the 2022 TIPA World Awards. The 40 TIPA World Award winners represent the wide range of products and services making up the imaging industry today, including cameras, lenses, inkjet papers and printers, imaging software, video, lighting, monitors, cameraphones, and more.

“Each year we have more and more products and new and exciting technology that continue to fuel growth in our industry,” said Thomas Gerwers, chairman, TIPA. “We believe that now more than ever our support of the industry and the people who work so hard, be it in production, distribution, or marketing, deserve our thanks and appreciation for their efforts to continue to develop new and exciting products that both expand imaging creativity and potential and point the way to new and exciting technologies in the future.”

The Award Process

Beginning in late 2021 and through April, 2022, nominations were gathered by the TIPA Technical Committee, composed of members from Australia, Canada, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, and the United States. New categories that incorporate emerging trends and technology were considered, editors from member magazines were consulted, equipment was tested and evaluated, and evaluative discussions were held right up until the General Assembly meeting in late April, 2022.

Finalists were voted on at the TIPA General Assembly on April 29, 2022, held this year at Leitz Park in Wetzlar, Germany, and attended by representatives from TIPA member magazines from around the world, including a delegate from the Japan Camera Press Club, with some members attending online due to travel restrictions.

TIPA Award winners

Best MFT Camera: OM System OM-1

The OM System OM-1 has a new sensor paired with a processing engine that’s 3x faster than its predecessor. The new flagship camera is ideal for recording images in low light, with a native ISO as high as 102,400. It also excels at capturing action with ultrahigh-speed sequential shooting modes and high-speed tracking. It offers AI-detection (artificial intelligence) autofocus recognition for cars, motorcycles, airplanes, helicopters, trains, and birds, as well as animals (dogs and cats).

TIPA editors were especially impressed by how steady shots are via its remarkable 8.0 EV image stabilization system, available with select lenses. Outdoor photographers can also rest easy that inclement weather will not hinder working with the OM-1; that’s thanks to the splash- and dustproof sealing of its lightweight magnesium alloy body.

Best APS-C Camera: Nikon Z fc

Combine classic design and controls with modern technology and you have a good picture of the Z fc’s appeal. It’s a conversation starter, especially among cognoscenti photographers who admire a retro feel. However, the tech is right up to date with a 20.9MP CMOS sensor; an Expeed 6 image processor that delivers 11-frames-per-sec stills and 4K UHD at 30p video; as well as native ISO capability up to 51,200.

The Z fc also fits right in with the latest livestreaming and vlogging action. It sports a fully articulating touchscreen LCD; connectivity and sharing options; compatibility with external mics; as well as a 3-inch LCD with a vari-angle design. One factor that the TIPA jury appreciated very much was how younger users whose parents (or grandparents!) were Nikon SLR photographers can mount older generation’s F-series lenses with an FTZ mount adapter.

Best Full-Frame Expert Camera: Sony Alpha 7 IV

TIPA editors felt strongly that photographers who are ready to expand their creative options in both still and video work will find a lot to like in the Alpha 7 IV. Its 33MP Exmor R full-frame sensor’s back-illuminated design delivers low noise and vivid color images. It also achieves low-light performance enhanced by a native ISO up to 51,200. Plus, there’s a 15-stop dynamic range at the lowest ISO settings.

Moreover, its Bionz XR processor is fast and can handle 10 fps for up to 800 consecutive RAW + JPEG images. In addition, the video side is equally impressive, with long continuous recording times of one hour at 4K 60p. Plus, it boasts the editing flexibility brought on by the ability to record in 10-bit 4:2:2. Numerous connectivity options include a built-in HDMI port; an enhanced connection to smartphone via the Imaging Edge app, via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; as well as livestreaming options.

Best Full-Frame Professional Camera: Nikon Z 9

Combine the instincts and reflexes of a pro photographer with the imaging tools available in the Nikon Z 9 and you have a hard-to-beat combination. Delivering 45.7MP stills via its stacked CMOS sensor, its images hold up even when cropped. Consequently, the Z 9 is ideal for wildlife, landscape and portraiture work.

One major design change of great interest to TIPA members is the elimination of a mechanical shutter. As a result, this is a very fast camera, with up to 30-fps shooting in JPEG and 20 in RAW. What’s more, it can buffer up to an incredible 1,000 RAW images in a burst. A wide variety of resolutions and frame rates, including 8K/30p video for a bit over two hours of continuous shooting time, also make it a very viable video camera. Numerous firmware updates, such as 12-bit RAW 8K/60 in-camera capability, continue to add to this camera’s appeal.

Best Camera Innovation: Canon EOS R3

The Canon EOS R3 adds a new stage in focus point selection development. Eye control AF is a method of choosing a subject or object as the focus point merely by looking at it through the viewfinder. Previously, focus points were chosen in Canon cameras via the touchscreen or multi-controller to move focus throughout the entire frame.

In addition, TIPA members who tested eye control AF were intrigued and impressed by how rapidly the focus point was attained and displayed in the camera’s OLED electronic viewfinder. They also noted how the AF system could continue to keep focus on the subject via the R3’s AF tracking technology—including humans, animals and vehicles. That’s due to its deep learning, AI autofocus system and the camera’s very fast as well as responsive back-illuminated stacked sensor and Digic X processor.

Best Rangefinder Camera: Leica M11

Traditional design meets advanced technology in the Leica M11. Befitting a rangefinder, it uses an optical finder that incorporates automatic parallax compensation with built-in frame lines. There’s also a rear 2.95-inch, 2.3M-dot touchscreen LCD.

While the TIPA jury admired its simplicity and elegance, they were very impressed by its 60MP full-frame CMOS BSI sensor. The sensor allows for Triple Resolution technology, a pixel-binning process that offers a choice of three resolution dynamic range/resolution capture modes. Moreover, all of them provide 14-bit color and use all the pixels in the sensor. Furthermore, a new Maestro III processor delivers a native ISO range of 64–50,000, as well as fast 4.5-fps advance, with an electronic shutter option for speeds up to 1/16,000 sec.

Best Professional 4K Hybrid Camera: Panasonic Lumix DC-GH6

TIPA members know a versatile camera that can handle every position on the field is a distinct advantage in today’s media environment. The GH6 does so by enabling both pro-level video and high-res stills. On the still side, the GH6 can synthesize eight images into a 100MP file, all without use of a tripod. It also offers subject tracking as specific as eye recognition; a wide dynamic range; 7.5 stop image stabilization; and continuous shooting at up to 75 fps.

On the video side, its Venus processing engine supports 5.7K 30p in the high-quality Apple ProRes 422 HQ/ProRes 422 codecs for virtually lossless, high bitrate footage with 4K. As a result, it enables super slow-motion capture and AF up to 200 fps. Extended clips are also no problem due to fan-driven active cooling that draws heat away from the sensor.

Best Professional 8K Hybrid Camera: Canon EOS R5 C

Whether it’s sport news, documentary, nature or wedding still and video capture, TIPA editors saw the R5 C as a “do-everything” camera for photographers who want to carry one camera to cover all their pro video and stills creators needs. It features 45MP still as well as 8K Cinema Raw Light video, with a host of resolution and format options.

Also featured is a vari-angle, tilting touchscreen LCD for compositional and POV freedom. This is further enhanced with a low-light AF sensitivity of -6 EV. Connectivity and storage capacity also enable easy after-shot downloading and editing. Other features are audio and video I/O; Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity; and dual card slots for CFexpress and SD cards. Unlimited shooting times are also possible due to the active cooling system on the back of the camera.

Best Professional Video Camera: Panasonic Lumix DC-BS1H

Mobility and modularity are two key watchwords for today’s content creators and videographers. Moreover, that’s especially true for those who thrive on location access and the ability to take their camera wherever the assignment leads. The BS1H’s small size (3.7×3.7x 3.1 inches) holds a 24.2MP sensor and accepts Leica L-mount lenses.

It can record video in numerous framing rates and formats, up to 5.9K resolution. The unit also offers a 14+ stop dynamic range and works very well in multi-camera environments. Furthermore, what was quite impressive to TIPA members was its versatility, with drone-mount capability; an internal cooling fan for long clips; mains or rechargeable power supply; numerous input and output connectivity options; mounting threads; onboard tally lights; as well as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality. All of this makes the camera a choice for mobile camera productions.

Best Medium-Format Camera: Fujifilm GFX 50S II

Larger sensors offer the benefit of enhanced light-gathering capability along with smooth color and tonal transitions. Consequently, images achieve what’s now characterized by many TIPA magazines as a special “medium-format” look. The latest in Fujifilm’s medium-format line holds a 51.4MP sensor. It also employs an in-body 5-axis image stabilization system. Moreover, the IS system achieves a 6.5 EV compensation for expanded low-light or slow shutter speed capture.

Further, for compositional freedom, there’s a high-resolution EVF and a 3-way tilting rear 3.2-inch, 2.36M-dot touchscreen LCD. There are also numerous aspect ratio options ranging from 1:1 to 16×9. Also featured are 3-fps advance as well as Full HD 1080p video recording at various framing rates. In addition, a 117-point AF system provides subject tracking plus an improved algorithm for face/eye recognition.

Best Vlogger Camera: Sony Alpha ZV-E10

For influencers and those seeking a solution for creating blogs or presenting live online, the Sony ZV-E10 checked all the boxes for TIPA members. Its design, features as well as shooting modes make it ideal for single-person productions. Features such as a 3-inch, vari-angle touchscreen LCD; a directional 3-capsule mic with a dedicated windscreen for crisp and clean audio recording; as well as shooting modes such as background defocus make the camera a highly practical and attractive choice.

In addition, its ISO range of 100–3200 allows for work in a wide range of lighting conditions. Furthermore, numerous ports, including a digital audio interface, eliminate cable clutter and the need for external power when working with compatible shoe-mount microphones. Livestreaming from the camera to a mobile device is also made easy via a USB connection. The compatibility of the E mount with more than 60 different lenses makes the ZV-E10 a versatile camera prepared to tell any type of story.

Best Manual Focus Lens: Venus Optics Laowa Argus FF II 35mm f/0.95

This f/0.95 maximum aperture lens is a tool for many creative applications. This includes astrophotography; candid still and video imaging; very shallow depth-of-field portraits; and nature studies. And, of course, use in very low-light conditions. Another exciting feature for TIPA editors is its 15-blade aperture, which creates remarkable bokeh effects.

This manual focus lens also offers both a clicked and de-clicked aperture ring for smooth video exposure transitions. It has precise focusing control via 300º barrel rotation that virtually eliminates the distraction of changes in view when moving focus from one subject to another. Optical build is another plus, with one ED, one aspherical as well as four high-refractive-index glass elements.

Best APS-C Prime Lens: Tokina atx-m 56mm f/1.4

With an equivalent focal length of 85mm on a full-frame camera, considered by many photographers as the prime “portrait” lens, this fast 56mm is a solution for landscape, nature as well as candid street photography. TIPA editors remarked about how the f/1.4 maximum aperture maximizes potential for low-light work. Moreover, the added bonus of the 9-blade diaphragm yields very pleasing bokeh effects. This is especially true when images are made at the slightly under-2-foot minimum focusing distance.

In addition, for video, the lens provides very fast, silent AF operation. It also has a click-less aperture control. Another aspect of the lens that impressed the TIPA jury is how well it matches up with the size and weight of APS-C camera bodies. It weighs about 11 ounces and measures 2.6×2.8 inches, also making it an excellent field companion.

Best APS-C Zoom Lens: Sigma 18–50mm f/2.8 DC DN | Contemporary

When photographers ask TIPA editors about their recommendation for a travel lens, they point to a versatile wide to normal zoom that’s lightweight and compact. TIPA’s choice this year is the Sigma 18–50mm f/2.8 DC DN | Contemporary. It weighs in at just 10.2 ounces and is also relatively small at 2.6×2.9 inches.

Yielding a full-frame, 27–75mm-equivalent focal length range, it offers compositional versatility without having to change lenses. For both still and video, its stepping motor provides smooth, quiet AF performance. Moreover, the balance of three high-precision glass molded aspherical lenses and a low dispersion element makes for excellent optical quality without excessive weight. Expanding imaging options, the lens maintains the fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range; it also has a minimum focusing distance of 4.8 inches.

Best Full-Frame Wide-Angle Prime Lens: Sigma 20mm f/2 DG DN | Contemporary

A fast, wide prime lens is an excellent addition to any photographer’s kit. That’s true whether for creative points of view and depth-of-field effects for various scenes or for video shooting, vlogging and video streaming. TIPA members were impressed by the versatility this Sigma i series lens affords, including its wide maximum of f/2 aperture; it brings expanded capabilities in low light, such as night photography and even astrophotography.

Compositional flexibility is also expanded with its f/22 minimum aperture, an 8.7-inch minimum focusing distance and a 9-blade rounded diaphragm. Further, an integrated stepping motor ensures quiet, smooth AF even for video, which requires nimble and stable focusing. The all-metal body has a dust- and splash-resistant mount. In addition, its SLD, FLD (fluorite equivalent) and the three aspherical elements enhance optical performance.

Best Full-Frame Standard Prime Lens: Voigtländer Nokton 50mm f/1 Aspherical VM

The TIPA jury was very impressed by the lens-making craftsmanship entailed in creating this fast, handsome M-mount lens. The aspherical front element is heated, ground, and polished (known as a GA, or “ground aspherical”) rather than mold created. The result is a simplified configuration as well as high-quality performance, even when shooting wide open.

It also features all-metal construction; positive aperture stops from f/1.0 to f/16; and a very smooth, broad focusing ring. Consequently, the lens is a pleasure to use for a wide range of lighting conditions and subjects. While the f/1.0 maximum aperture is, of course, a boon to night and low-light photographers, combining the wide maximum aperture with the 12-blade diaphragm and 35.4-inch close focusing capability results in stunning bokeh effects.

Best Full-Frame Prime Telephoto Lens: Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S

When TIPA members looked at prime telephoto lenses aimed at pro sports, wildlife, and all photographers who want to enjoy the benefits of a fast, vibration-reduction telephoto, the Nikkor Z 400mm was a clear choice. Especially when the lens offers the bonus of a built-in 1.4x teleconverter for easy, instant switching to 560mm at f/4.

The lens incorporates rubber gaskets to protect against the harmful effects of dust and moisture. What’s more, it’s constructed with ED (extra-low dispersion); super ED; lightweight fluorite; as well as SR elements for virtual elimination of chromatic/comatic aberrations and color fringing. Smooth and quiet AF is assured with the “silky swift” voice coil motor (VCM) with full-time manual override available. The Nikkor Z 400mm also offers an impressive 5.5 EV VR compensation.

Best Full-Frame Wide-Angle Zoom Lens: Canon RF 14–35mm f/4L IS USM

Wide-angle zooms offer unique and flexible compositional capabilities that have strong appeal to landscape, nature and architectural photographers, as well as videographers. TIPA members felt that Canon’s RF 14–35mm earns its L-series designation, known for tack sharp, accurate color rendition images.

Weather-resistant, with fluorine coating, the lens incorporates an optical image stabilizer that compensates for up to 5.5 stops; that increases to an incredible 7 stops when used with a Canon R camera with in-body image stabilization. The Nano USM (ultrasonic motor) also results in fast, quiet focusing action. Thus, the lens is an option for videography as well. What’s more, there’s full-time manual focus control when using one-shot AF mode. In addition, a very handy and configurable on-lens control ring is used for aperture, ISO and exposure compensation settings.

Best Full-Frame Standard Zoom Lens: Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II

The TIPA jury considered this lens as thoroughly designed to respond to the changing needs of today’s still, video and hybrid content creators. This second-gen lens comes six years after the original G Master 24–70mm zoom. Moreover, it is smaller and lighter. Its enhanced (2x) AF tracking speed is driven by four Sony XD linear motors. In addition, a new optical construction includes three aspherical elements, of which two are unique XA (extreme aspherical) for high resolution; two ED elements; and two super ED elements; plus, Nano AR II coating.

Video enhancements include extremely smooth, quiet AF; reduced focus breathing and shifts when zooming; and linear response MF, for newfound manual focus control. Furthermore, it supports the breathing compensation function in compatible Alpha cameras. Other new features include an updated lens hood for working with variable filters; an 11-blade diaphragm; and improved dust and moisture resistance. sony.com

Best Full-Frame Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sony FE 70–200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II

The 70–200 focal length is perhaps the most popular tele-zoom range; it’s considered an essential piece of kit for expert as well as professional. The TIPA jury agreed that this lens ups the ante on the classic focal length by incorporating a brand-new AF system with 4x the speed. What’s more, it boasts a weight reduction of almost 30% (2.3 pounds) from previous models. It also incorporates improvements that dramatically limit the effects of focus breathing and focus shift, essential to video production.

Enhanced optics, including a Sony XA (extreme aspherical) element, offer corner-to-corner sharpness, even wide open. Further, a newly designed 11-blade diaphragm helps create soft and pleasing bokeh. The supporting AF system sports four XD linear motors for improved focus tracking; 30-fps continuous shooting; as well as near-silent AF. Multi-mode onboard Optical SteadyShot image stabilization ensures steadiness at even the longest focal length settings.

Best Full-Frame Ultra-Telephoto Zoom Lens: Tamron 150–500mm f/5–6.7 Di III VC VXD

Users of ultra-telephoto zooms understand the benefits of a compact-sized lens with image stabilization and weather resistance. Those qualities are very useful for any kind of wildlife, sports, birding and landscape photography. This lens also features special lens elements and coatings that reduce flare and ghosting in high-contrast scenes.

Moreover, the E-mount lens incorporates a VXD linear focus motor that delivers very responsive performance; it also offers tracking and focusing benefits with Sony hybrid AF and eye AF feature cameras. It measures 11.1 inches at the 500mm focal length and weighs 60.8 ounces. TIPA members agreed it is a comfortable field lens for handheld shooting. In addition, a VC mode selection switch enable the choice of three modes for panning or framing priority. Users of Sony APS-C cameras can also mount the lens to attain a 225–750mm zoom.

Best Macro Lens: Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

While this lens bears the “Macro” designation and offers 1.4x life-size magnification, TIPA members agreed it could serve double duty as an excellent portrait lens. On the portrait side, and equally applicable for macro work, a spherical aberration control ring permits the creation of images with a soft-focus look. On the macro side, the close focus design allows for working with subjects as close as 10.2 inches. When combined with its 9-blade diaphragm, the lens can yield dramatic bokeh effects.

Tripod-free macro work potential is also greatly enhanced by the 5-stop optical image stabilization in the lens. Furthermore, it becomes an 8-stop advantage when used with a Canon EOS R camera featuring in-body image stabilization. What’s more, its Dual Nano USM yields smooth, fast, quiet AF. Plus, the lens is dust and moisture-resistant for protection when working in the field.

Best Travel Zoom Lens: Tamron 35–150mm f/2–2.8 Di III VXD

TIPA jury members selected this fast Tamron for its strong appeal to travelers on weekend jaunts or extended vacations who like to pack only one lens for all their photo ops. The lens permits spontaneous shooting as well as a wide variety of points of view without having to change it out.

For Sony E-mount full-frame cameras, the versatile lens fits easily into a camera bag, measuring 3.5×6.2 inches. Unlike other zooms, there is no great loss of light capture when going from wide to tele (here, f/2 to f/2.8, when zoomed out). A VXD (voice-coil eXtreme-torque drive) AF system provides quick, quiet, precise operation for still as well as video shootings. In addition, with the new Tamron Lens Utility software, users can customize lens functions and update the firmware by connecting the lens to a computer via its USB-C port.

Best Photo Paper: Hahnemühle Canvas Metallic

Those who create images for home and office décor, public display, such as airports, or who simply want to make truly impressive prints will welcome this exciting new canvas. Available in rolls, for use in commercial labs and custom ateliers, the canvas has a silver/shimmering look on a finely woven surface that yields eye-catching, bold colors.

TIPA members commented that the combination of canvas and metallic gloss heightens the visual impact of the image, with images showing movement, reflections, and bright colors being especially impressive. The 350 gsm canvas is bright white; acid and lignin-free; age resistant; as well as flexible. As a result, it is a great option for do-it-yourself stretcher frame systems.

Best Photo Printer: Canon Pixma MegaTank G650

Printing and archiving photographs is showing growth as a major activity. Canon’s G650 makes it easy and economical to make prints for albums and sharing. TIPA members were impressed with its economical aspects in terms of ink/output ratios as well as its built-in Wi-Fi. It links with smartphones and home systems via Canon’s free software and Easy Photo Print Editor app. Moreover, the app provides numerous editing options.

The MegaTank concept saves on ink, with an approximate 3,800 4×6-inch prints per ink set using Canon’s ChromaLife 100 six-color dye inks. Furthermore, the “100” branding refers to a claimed 100-year life in album storage. Notably, the printer can produce sizes range from 4×6 to 8.5×11. A special Canon 5×5-inch square paper is also available. Easy loaders in the rear tray allow for 20 sheets of 4×6 or 10 sheets of 5×7.

Best Professional Imaging Software: Capture One 22

Long a mainstay software for professional photographers, both in the field and at the editing table, TIPA jury members continue to be impressed by Capture One. It continues to expand its capabilities to keep abreast with today’s connected functionality and digital image file editing and organization challenges.

This latest version includes upgrades to an already impressive suite. They include multidirectional stitching to create very high-resolution panoramas; an impressive HDR merging tool that handles high-res RAW files to create a seamless expansion of multi-shot dynamic range images; wireless tethering with select cameras; an AI-driven auto-rotate function; as well as a new and enhanced catalog image organizer—an absolute must for dealing with high-fps and high-res camera output. captureone.com

Best Expert Imaging Software: DxO PhotoLab 5

RAW file data from today’s high-res cameras makes greater demands on the photographer’s image-processing program than ever. TIPA jury members understand that with more data comes the potential for greater creativity via more nuanced controls; nimbler image management; as well as more speed to handle large-file image-processing tasks. Moreover, these are all areas in which DxO PhotoLab 5 proves up to the task.

This latest version of PhotoLab incorporates a further refinement of its U Point algorithm. This unique control for advanced masking enables fine-tuning of RAW images over a wide range of parameters; all while offering a non-destructive workflow. Image volume management is also addressed with improved keyword and metadata management. In addition, the software uses a faster version of DxO’s AI DeepPRIME, which provides exceptional quality for de-noising and demosaicing RAW images. It also achieves a much-improved quality gain, especially on high ISO images.

Best Enthusiast Imaging Software: Skylum Luminar Neo

A growing trend in imaging software is the incorporation of artificial intelligence in creative imagery. TIPA members were impressed by the feature sets in Luminar Neo as well as how they help photographers invest more of their time in visual creativity than in struggling with complicated adjustments.

It excels at combining images with multiple layers; relighting backlit or foreground subjects; background removal via masking; clearing sky of power or phone lines; and enhancing bokeh. It also features, for those who neglect to clean their sensor prior to an important shoot, an amazing tool dubbed “Dust Removal AI.” Luminar Neo also unlocks a host of tools that make it easy to explore new paths of digital photo editing and expression. In addition, it handles RAW files with ease. The software is available as a stand-alone product or a plug-in.

Best LED Light: Aputure LS 1200d

The Aputure LS 1200d provides wireless control, weather, and dust resistance as well as output comparable to 1600W HMI. The TIPA jury selected the fixture because of its proven ability to support any pro-level production, both indoors and out. This daylight-balanced fixture (5600K) features numerous wireless control connections; for example, Bluetooth, DMX, and Wi-Fi that can handle full-scale dimming options.

It also offers a host of special effects, such as paparazzi, fireworks, lightning, “faulty bulb” and more. Optimized output is obtained by using any of the three included Bowens Hyper reflectors that supply varying beam angles, from narrow to wide. Narrow creates an output of 83,100 lux at 10 feet. In addition, numerous soft light modifiers, including light domes and lanterns, are attached via the Bowens mount.

Best Flash: Godox Macro Flash MF12

TIPA editors are always on the lookout for any product that can open up a new world of imaging exploration and expression. That’s certainly the case with the Godox Macro flash and associated kit accessories. The flash heads, mounted on the included adjustable stands, make for quick setup. Also, there’s an included setup for direct lens mounting as well.

In addition, an extreme close-up positioning adapter has a special slope angle structure for inward angling of the heads toward the lens. Moreover, photographers can rotate each head to a different angle for just the right lighting effect. The built-in lithium battery delivers about 500 full power flash with a rapid max 1.7-second recycling time. Further, shooters can fire the flash remotely and wirelessly. As an added bonus, the kit includes color effect and color temperature adjustment gels.

Best Tripod: Benro Induro Hydra 2 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod

Dedicated outdoor photographers who work in all types of environments know that inclement weather and unique points of view often involve less than ideal working conditions. The TIPA jury was impressed by the Hydra 2’s ability to handle challenging terrains and conditions. It’s a compact-carry, lightweight, waterproof and fully extendable tripod that actually encourages adventurous photography.

Its reverse folding design compacts down to 16 inches yet extends to 60 inches with center-column rise. The fully waterproofed leg locks also protect the workings in the snow, on shore or on a stream bank. So, there’s no hindrance to getting great points of view. Furthermore, the five-section leg supports can hold rigs up to 37.5 pounds. Also, the three-stop adjustable legs locks and independent leg spread functionality allow for excellent compositional flexibility.

Best Professional Photo Monitor: LG 27″ UltraFine OLED Pro 27EQ850

This monitor is aimed specifically at professional image editors as well as video and still photographers. Its OLED display delivers an impressive 1 million:1 contrast ratio with no trace of halo or blooming effects, plus true 10-bit color depth. Image accuracy is also guaranteed with 99% AdobeRGB and DCI-P3, along with support for standard industry color managed picture modes.

In addition, hardware calibration allows for direct adjustments of the 14-bit LUT to enhance color accuracy with the LG Color Calibration Studio SW. Connectivity options provide support for a USB-C, two DisplayPorts, three USB ports and an HDMI. Moreover, TIPA editors especially appreciated the tilt and wall mount options that provide for a flexible, comfortable viewing experience when using this exceptional pro monitor.

Best Enthusiast Photo Monitor: LG 32″ UltraFine Nano IPS Black 32UQ85R

TIPA members are always searching for a high-quality monitor for enthusiast image creators that will bring out the best color, sharpness and tonal spread for their editing sessions. This one offers plenty of screen real estate, numerous connections, as well as a self-auto calibration setup via the LG Calibration Studio SW.

The monitor’s Nano IPS Black panel provides deeper and higher contrast (2000 to 1), including excellent performance with a wider viewing angle. It also covers a DCI-P3 98% color gamut. Consequently, it renders rich color depth and nuance, enhanced even further with the VESA DisplayHDR 400 screen. Numerous connectivity options are also available, as well as two-channel 5W speakers with Waves MaxxAudio.

Best Video Monitor: ViewSonic VP3881a 38″ ColorPro 21:9 WQHD+ IPS Monitor

Immersive is the word that came up among TIPA members when discussing this curved 38-inch monitor. It sports an impressive WQHD 3,840×1,600-resolution screen. Delivering exceptional color accuracy and wide dynamic range, it can also decode HDR10 video signals for richly colored and fine-detailed playback. And ViewSonic’s ViewSplit workspace allows for the setup of customized multiple viewing windows. As a result, it is an ideal workspace for video editors, content developers and those performing critical color tasks.

Connectivity options were also included in the TIPA member considerations. This model offers USB-C, DisplayPort and HDMI. HDCP 2.2 content protection is employed across all ports to provide secure 4K content playback. Moreover, with an impressive DeltaE>2 value color accuracy, the 14-bit 3D LUT generates a smooth palette of a very impressive 4.39 trillion colors. Hardware calibration is also available with the optional ViewSonic Calibration kit.

Best Imaging Storage Media: ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B 1700 Cobalt

Today’s high megapixel still and video cameras routinely put out high framing rates and data-heavy video. TIPA editors recognize that cards that can handle the feed and load are essential imaging tools. The ProGrade Cobalt cards have a 160GB storage capacity. They also boast a remarkable maximum read speed of 800 megabytes-per-second (MB/s) and a maximum write speed of 700 MB/s. There’s also a guarantee that their minimum write speed will not drop below 400 MB/s.

The cards can handle RAW 4K and 8K, 6K and 4K ProRes video. What’s more, their metal enclosure offers temperature control with built-in “Thermal Throttling”; this means it protects the card and its contents in the event of overheating. Built for heavy use, the cards are also shock, vibration and even X-ray proof.

Best Photo Retail Service: Kodak Moments LittlePix

LittlePix sets the new standard for the retail photo experience. This innovative new printing solution enables customers to print the popular mini retro format instantly in-store. The print station features a modern, contemporary design.

What’s more, its intuitive web-based software makes it a seamless experience aimed at attracting a younger target audience. In addition, LittlePix’s trendy, pocket-sized prints are perfect for sharing with friends; decorating with; or gifting in stylish gift boxes. kodakmoments.com

Best Photo Service: CEWE Photo Book Personalized Slipcase

To give precious memories an even more premium home, the personalized CEWE slipcase is the ideal, surprising addition to upgrade a CEWE photo book. This was also recognized by the TIPA jury.

When ordering a CEWE Photo Book XL, customers can choose this high-quality, form-fitting, matt-laminated cardboard case with the same cover design as their book. Or they can opt for a custom design of their own. As a result, the slipcase allows for a personalized dedication to each individual receiving it or marking it for a special occasion.

Best Professional Photo Smartphone: Sony Xperia Pro-I

The Xperia Pro-I brought industry-leading imaging technology to Sony’s advanced smartphone. In addition to connectivity options and a remarkable 512GB internal storage, TIPA jury members were impressed with its 1.0-type sensor—a smartphone first. It also features phase-detection AF and 4K video recording capability at 120 fps. Plus, eye AF and object tracking work with both still and video modes.

The Pro-I boasts three Zeiss rear camera lenses, all with T* coating, for capturing 12MP images. They feature 24, 50 and a 16mm focal lengths, and there’s also an 8MP front lens. The phone’s brilliant 6.5-inch OLED display (3,840×1,644 pixels) is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus. Phoneographers can also use it as a vivid monitor for video capture. The Xperia Pro-I also employs the Bionz X processor, which delivers enhanced noise reduction.

Best Expert Photo Smartphone: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G

Increasing numbers of photographers, both pro and advanced amateurs, are turning to smartphones for some still and video work. The S22 Ultra combines features of the Samsung Note series, with included S-pen stylus as well as pro-grade camera features. It also offers bright, sharp viewing, even in low light, on its 6.8-inch rectangular screen. That’s thanks to its 2um pixel sensor and super-clear glass lens.

TIPA members were impressed by the incorporation of numerous AI-supported features and the company’s free Expert Raw app for editing. Additionally, the Dynamic AMOLED 2x display delivers 100% Mobil Color Volume in the DCI-P3 range; this enhances color regardless of different brightness levels. Lens choices include two fast wides (ultra and wide); two teles (3x and 10x optical zooms); and, of course, a selfie front camera.

Best Advanced Photo Smartphone: OnePlus 10 Pro 5G

Codeveloped with Hasselblad, the 10 Pro offers a bright, 6.7-inch AMOLED 1440p screen. It also features three rear cameras: standard, ultrawide and tele. Moreover, the fastest one is the standard f/1.8, which like the tele, features OIS. Video options include 8K at 24p and 4K up to 120p. RAW Plus still shooting, accessible via the smartphone’s Hasselblad Pro Mode app, captures 12-bit RAW on all three cameras and outputs a DNG format file.

Furthermore, the 32MP front camera readily adapts to various lighting conditions and makes selfie single and group shots easy to get right. TIPA jury members especially appreciated the numerous creative shooting options and effects. They comprise multi-frame HDR; modes that emulate the eyes of Hasselblad Masters; long exposure stills; a special fisheye emulation; as well as manual exposure override when shooting videos. An included fast charger can supply a day’s power needs with a 15-minute charge.

Japan Camera Journal Press Club Honorees

Each year, TIPA and the Japan Camera Journal Press Club both contribute a vote towards the selection of each other’s award winners. In 2022, the CJPC Japan honorees are:

• Camera Grand Prix: Nikon Z 9
• Lens Award: Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM
• Readers’ Award: Nikon Z 9
• CJPC Editors’ Choice Technology Award: Canon EOS R3 (for Eye Control AF)
• CJPC Editors’ Choice R&D Award: Nikon Z fc (Z50 with “Nikon’s heritage” for young people)

2022 TIPA World Awards Ceremony

The live and simulcast 2022 TIPA World Awards Ceremony will take place during Photopia in Hamburg, Germany, October 13-16, 2022. The specific date and time will be posted on the TIPA website well before the event.