The Best Photo Accessories of 2016
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Build the dedicated shooter’s everyday kit.
Pakpod Tripod
Pointed, swiveling stakes keep the Pakpod steady where lesser tripods struggle—sand, snow, shale. At less than a pound, the plastic body won’t weigh you down but is sturdy enough for a DSLR with big glass.
Price $99
Kodak Professional Tri-X Film
This might be the most versatile black-and-white film ever, courtesy of its wide exposure range, exceptional sharpness, and the ability to deliver pristine detail in the shadows.
Price $5
Levi’s 501 Original Fit Strong Jeans
Perspective is everything, which is why you find yourself snapping while on your stomach or up a tree. With inches of articulation and tough Dyneema fiber woven through the legs, these pants won’t give out on you.
Price $80
Under Armour Roll Out Sunglasses
These shades are made from titanium and grilamid plastic (the stuff found in most ski boots). Read: they can take a beating. We dig the round lenses, which provide plenty of sun protection and a touch of style.
Price $155
Vasque Sundowner GTX Boots
With a Gore-Tex liner surrounded by bomber 2.4-millimeter leather, these hikers handle whatever terrain or weather you encounter in search of the perfect Insta shot.
Price $220
Outdoor Research Axiom Jacket
Weighing 14.5 -ounces and packing down to about the size of a grapefruit, the Axiom hides unobtrusively in your pack but is still fully waterproof and breathable.
Price $389
Moleskine Classic Pocket Notebook
The best photos need good captions. Jot down names, places, and quotations in this slim journal.
Price $14
Western Rise Eureka Shop Shirt
The Eureka’s muted colors and pearl snaps make it fancy enough to wear to dinner. But it’s plenty functional, with a breathable nylon-polyester blend and sneaky reflective hit under the collar.
Price $65
F-stop Lotus Backpack
The 32-liter Lotus handles spicy couloirs and airport terminals with equal aplomb, thanks to a lightweight yet burly suspension system and sleek cut. The water-resistant ripstop-nylon outer layer keeps gear safe and dry.
Price $199
Leica M-A Camera and Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH Lens
The M-A has no light meter or automatic focus. It’s not made for dashing off quick shots for social media. But if you long for über-rich photos, you need a mechanical machine with a sharp lens that rewards patience and hard work. And yes, that means you’ll need to adjust everything yourself.
Price $4,250 and $4,750