This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,030, Dec. 16, 2025. Today's theme is, "My 5 Favorite Photo Purchases of 2025." I'm Derrick Story.
I'm lucky enough to be able to test loaner gear for my podcasts and articles. But sometimes I like something so much that I buy it with my own money and incorporate it into my workflow. Today, I will share my five favorite purchases in 2025 - plus some industry news as well. All of that, and more, on Today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.
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My 5 Favorite Photo Purchases of 2025
Here are my top 5 photo purchases for 2025 in reverse order, David Letterman style.
- Number 5 - Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 150 AW Backpack (Gray, 18.5L). Bought for $49.88 on B&H Super Special; available now for $99 for the holidays.
- Number 4 - Canon PIXMA G620 Printer Bought for $249 on B&H Super Special, available for $299 for the holidays.
- Number 3 - Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.8 Z Lens for Nikon Z Bought for $407; available now for $329.
- Number 2 - OM System OM-3 Mirrorless Camera Body. Bought for $1,999 when first released; available now for $1,799 on holiday special.
- Number 1 - iPhone 17 Pro 256 GB. $1,099 direct from Apple.
This Week in the News
Joel Meyerowitz: How I Make Photographs review: Learn from one of street photography's greatest photographers as featured on DigitalCameraWorld.com
Why Printing Still Matters and How It Separates Authors From Image-Makers as featured on FStoppers.com
Michele Singer Reiner, Wife of Rob, Was an Accomplished Photographer as featured on PetaPixel.com
Viltrox is adding versatility to the viral fixed-lens camera as featured on DPReview.com
Virtual Camera Club News
Workshops!
The 2026 TDS Photography Workshop Season. We are featuring webinars, online workshops, and in-person events focused on creating impactful images in the company of those who love photography as much as you. Our workshops are like no others, and we think you will throughly enjoy the camaraderie and the tips and techniques.
Stop by The Nimble Photographer Workshop Page and reserve your spot today.
Inner Circle Bold. Sign up for the Annual Membership that's only $75.60 a year, you will receive all of the regular Inner Circle benefits, plus a coupon for your choice of a 2026 Online workshop hosted by me.
Great Photography Articles on Live View - If you check out our publication and appreciate what you see, be sure to follow us and clap for those authors. You can find us at medium.com/live-view.
If you're interested in writing for Live View, drop me a line at dstory@gmail.com.
The Nimble Photographer Newsletter is now publishing every Thursday. Readers will enjoy a variety of content spanning from short photo essays, to commentary on weekly events, to reviews of the latest and coolest photo gear.
Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts! We are having a blast at our new Inner Circle hangout, the private group I've set up at DerrickStoryOnline. We'd love it if you join us. You can become an Inner Circle Member by signing up at our Patreon site. You will automatically be added to the new hangout.
The New Donation Kit for Carefree Shipping of Found Film Cameras - If you've discovered a film camera that's no longer being used, our new Donation Kit makes it easy to pack and ship. Just visit the Contact Form on thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address.
Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation.
Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs.
See you next week!
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