NEW FEATURE | REGLIDE REMOVABLE WHEEL SYSTEM:
Vanguard introduces ReGlide removable wheels, allowing you to make the bag a little smaller to fit into a tighter spaces, or to change worn wheels to maximise the life of your bag. Simply remove and replace.

NEW FEATURE | 2-STAGE DUAL BAR HANDLE:
For the Alta Fly 55T G2 the design team have been able to upgrade the handle to a dual bar handle without impacting any of these.

The external dimensions are 340 x 245 x 555mm (about 50mm smaller in all dimensions).
The camera compartment is the same 22 litres, measuring in at 310 x 115 x 410mm.
Still fits a 14” laptop in the 290 x 25 x 410mm laptop compartment.
The weight is the same at 3.8kg (actually fractionally lighter).

In addition to being more robust, the dual bar handle allows you to slip a laptop bag with a roller sleeve on and carry without it twisting round as you walk.

EXISTING FEATURE | CONVERTS TO A BACKPACK
A photographer’s life is not always airport terminals and smooth going. When the going gets rough, the Alta Fly 55T G2 simply converts to a backpack.
Remove the padded shoulder straps and clip them to the D Ring, pull out the waist straps and you’re good to go in no time at all. It also includes an adjustable chest strap for maximum comfort.
If you’ve been rolling the trolley on wet ground, simply pull out add fit the rear wheel covers and you can walk without worrying about the wheels dirtying your shirt or jacket in backpack more

EXISTING FEATURE | TRIPOD HOLDER
On the side is a pocket with a tripod foot holder that is tucked away so it doesn’t flap around when not needed, and a strap at the top of the bag.

EXISTING FEATURE | STORAGE GALORE
As well as the main compartment, there additional pockets for your accessories.
Removing the camera section allows it to be used as an everyday bag.

IN SUMMARY
If you’re looking for a lightweight, sturdy and feature packed roller case, then check out the new Alta Fly 55T G2. It has all the features you’d expect, and adds removable wheels so that you can be sure that the part of the bag that gets the most wear can be replaced with new wheels, delivering maximum value for money.

See the Vangurad website for more info

The post Vanguard ALTA FLY 55T G2 Roller Case appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

Gary Neville from Surrey, England with this striking image of a Dalmatian pelican.

We are incredibly happy to announce the results of the SINWP Bird Photographer of the Year 2025 in aid of RSPB

Now in its eighth year, This prestigious competition has grown into a renowned platform for showcasing the beauty and diversity of birdlife through the work of talented photographers from around the world. Since its inception, it has raised nearly £20,000 in support of vital conservation initiatives led by the RSPB.

With over 2,200 photographs submitted from around the globe, the The SINWP Bird Photographer of the Year 2025 competition has revealed a stunning celebration of avian beauty, from kingfishers and bald eagles to owls, flamingos, and countless species beyond. The diversity and quality of the entries have been truly breathtaking.

The winning entry by Gary Neville from Surrey, England.

Gary was at the 2026 Convention to pick up his award and Certificate.

Gary tells us about the image:

”The image was taken in Lake Kerkini in northern Greece. The lake, actually a man-made reservoir, is rich in wildlife and is especially renowned for its Dalmatian Pelicans, a favourite subject among photographers worldwide. I captured this image while leaning over the side of a boat, keeping my camera away from the surface of the water, whist watching the Dalmatian pelicans slowly get closer and closer to the boat in anticipation of a fish from the boatman – the fish are considered low quality and unsuitable for sale, and are instead thrown back to the local wildlife.”

Equipment:
Sony A1
Tamron 70-180 f2.8 at around 95mm
1/400sec at F4, ISO 100

2nd place was awarded to Maggie Bullock from Cheshire, England and 3rd place was awarded to again Gary Neville from Surrey, England.

2nd Place – Maggie Bullock

3rd Place – Gary Neville

1st Place see HERE
2nd Place see HERE
3rd Place see HERE

As the quality this year’s competition was superb, Gold Awards and Highly Commended images and were also awarded.

The post Stunning Dalmatian Pelican Grabs Top Honours! appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

The Society of Photographers is thrilled to reveal the winners of the prestigious 2025 Photographer of the Year awards, proudly sponsored by Loxley Colour.

Therese Asplund has been crowned Photographer of the Year, an accolade that celebrates outstanding photographic talent and creativity.

The 2025 Monthly Image Competition attracted an impressive 5,725 submissions across 28 categories, showcasing the remarkable diversity and skill of our talented membership. Gold Award-winning images from each category were shortlisted, with the best of the best selected for this year’s top honors.

Judges’ Comments

“Demonstrating outstanding skill, narrative depth, and execution, this bold and distinctive image emerged as a clear standout and generated animated discussion among the judges.”

View the Winning Images

For full details on The Society of Photographer – Photographer of the Year Awards please check out the website: https://thesocieties.net/the-society-of-photographers-photographer-of-the-year-2025/

2nd Place Photographer of the Year 2025 was awarded to Cecile Stuedal Norway from Finnmark, Norway.

3rd Place Photographer of the Year 2025 was awarded to Terry Donnelly from England, UK.

1st Therese Asplund

2nd Cecile Stuedal

3rd Terry Donnelly

The post The Society of Photographers – Photographer of the Year 2025 Winners Announced appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

The 2025 SINWP Bird Photographer of the Year Competition Has Officially Closed!

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who took part and helped make this year’s competition an incredible success! Together, we’ve raised an amazing £2,988.97 for the RSPB supporting the vital work they do to protect our beautiful birdlife.

Since the competition began, the Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers (SINWP) has proudly raised over £19,126 for the RSPB, and it’s all thanks to the passion and creativity of photographers like you.

✨ The winners will be revealed in the next few weeks, but while you wait, why not explore some of the breathtaking entries from this year’s competition? sinwp.com/bird/

Like entering comps? Dog Photography Competition https://swpp.co.uk/Dog25/
Members don’t forget it’s Double up for November Monthly Image Competition
https://thesocieties.net/benefits/monthly-image-competition/

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The high quality polyester material includes an eco-friendly PVC coating to deliver a smooth, waterproof fabric with a durable waterproof repellent finish and weatherproof zips, making the bag as weatherproof as possible, with a rain cover for the wettest days. This smooth material has the added advantage of being easy clean, and the overall design has been created to disguise the fact that you are carrying a valuable camera kit as you travel.

Each backpack includes a lower camera compartment, with a daypack section above.
The camera compartment is designed to hold a full frame camera (up to 15cm tall) with a 70-200mm f2.8 lens attached, with up to four additional lenses and multiple accessories. This has full rear access with rapid, wide side access to your camera so you don’t miss a fleeting shot.

The daypack section provides a sizeable storage space for personal kit (or additional camera kit), and can also be opened up to allow top access to your camera compartment. With the ability to take up to a 16” laptop, this allows the bag to be set up as a great commuter backpack as well as a camera backpack.

Both backpacks are packed with pockets for a range of accessories like cables and filters, including expanding side pockets for a water bottle or a travel tripod.

In addition to a design that doesn’t look like a camera bag, the backpacks include a hidden AirTag pocket to provides peace of mind that if you misplace your bag, you can find it. They also include a hidden pocket behind the trolley strap for important paperwork such as passports.

If you need extra space, we are launching the VEO Lite S2L Compact Shoulder Bag (RRP £40). This is a small, lightweight shoulder bag that can be used to carry personal kit or a compact/action camera kit (and possibly a smaller micro 4/3rd camera with lens attached).

While this shoulder bag is designed to be used as a standalone product, it’s removable strap means it can also be attached to the front of your VEO Lite backpack to provide extra storage.

The VEO Lite Series is available in the following colours:

• Cream (CM)
• Navy Blue (NV)
• Red (RD) for the VEO Lite B20L only at launch

So if you are looking for a stylish, lightweight and weatherproof camera bag that looks great for your next photoshoot or commute, then check out the VEO Lite Series.
Launch Promotion: FREE Shoulder Bag

To launch the VEO Lite and demonstrate the link between the backpack and the shoulder bag, Vanguard are offering a free VEO Lite S2L shoulder bag to anyone who buys a backpack before 30th November 2025.

So whether the VEO Lite system is for you, or as a gift, you can buy now from any authorised dealer and claim a free shoulder bag.

How to claim your free shoulder bag:
Simply buy your backpack from an authorised dealer and click here to claim you free shoulder bag from Vanguard.

The post Lightweight, Weatherproof Camera Backpacks appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

World Wide Announcement: 22^nd August 2025
Sales Start Date: September 2025
Recommended Retail price: £ 2,599.00 (UK) , € 2,999.00 (ROI)

Nikon introduces the second-generation NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens. Completely redesigned with an internal zoom, faster AF, and a new optical construction, this workhorse zoom lens is now lighter, sharper, better balanced, and better for video. It’s the first professional 24-70mm full-frame lens in the world to pack an internal zoom and it’s also the lightest lens in its class, weighing in at just 675 g.¹

Built to take storytellers out in the field further than ever before, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens is both easier to handle and tougher than its renowned predecessor (the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S). Thanks to the new internal zoom mechanism, there’s no shift in the centre of gravity when changing focal lengths: photographers can zoom handheld without needing to adjust their grip, and video shooters won’t need to rebalance the lens on a gimbal. In addition, the internal zoom means fewer moving parts are exposed to the elements and protection gets dialled all the way up with Nikon’s pro-grade weather sealing.

Stills and video shooters will benefit massively from Nikon’s next-generation multi-focusing and optical systems. This is the first zoom lens in the Z series line-up to boast Nikon’s Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor: AF performance is 5x faster² and 50% quieter, plus focus tracking is 60% quicker when zooming. Meanwhile, the new S-line optical design uses fewer elements to greater effect, shaping the light beautifully.

A rounded 11-blade aperture produces more circular bokeh and Nikon’s best performing Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings counter ghosting and flare, making it possible to shoot into harsh light without worry. Close-up performance has also improved significantly: users of the new NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens can get closer to their subjects thanks to shorter minimum focus distances and an improved maximum magnification ratio, plus the advantage of a lens barrel that doesn’t extend.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager, Nikon Europe says: “After almost a century of NIKKOR optical innovations—and seven years of rapid advancements made with Nikon Z—we’re proud to introduce the first second-generation NIKKOR Z lens. Faster, tougher, and more capable, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens is packed with exciting improvements that will help you create at your highest level yet.”

Summary of key features: NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

Best in class: world’s first professional 24-70mm f/2.8 lens to pack an internal zoom, and the lightest in its class at 675 g.¹

Internal zoom: lens barrel doesn’t extend or retract. The centre of gravity stays consistent, and shots stay on point.

Better handling for video: internal zoom means no need to rebalance the lens if using a gimbal, and it’s easier to use heavy accessories. Plus, focus breathing is slashed for more natural transitions.

Fastest AF yet: first zoom lens to feature a multi-focusing system with Nikon’s Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor (SSVCM). For faster, quieter, more accurate performance across the zoom range.

Next-generation S-line optics: for maximum image quality and a lighter lens. Includes dual-sided aspherical lens elements and ED glass, plus Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings to counter ghosting and flare.

Smoother, rounder bokeh: rounded 11-blade aperture and advanced optics produce more circular bokeh, which is well defined and smoothly graded.

Extremely short minimum focus distance: just 0.24 m at 24mm, and 0.33 m at 70mm. Maximum magnification is 0.21x at 24mm, and 0.32x at 70mm.

De-clickable control ring: click on for tactile feedback. Click off for smooth, silent, stepless operation.

Focus-limit switch: limits the focus range to 0.33 m across the zoom range for a consistent working distance at all focal lengths.

Any location: internal zoom exposes fewer moving parts. Robust weather sealing keeps dust, dirt, and moisture at bay.³

New lens hood HB-117: round lens hood with filter adjustment window. There’s no need to remove this hood if working with rotating filters, which is handy if using variable ND filters for video.

¹ As of 22 August 2025, among 24-70mm f/2.8 interchangeable lenses for full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras. Based on Nikon research.
² When used in combination with a Nikon Z camera body equipped with EXPEED 7.
³ The lens is not guaranteed to be dust- and drip-resistant in all situations and under all conditions.

More information www.europe-nikon.com

The post Announcing the Next-Generation NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

WildPhotos, the one-day nature photography symposium, created in partnership by Wildscreen and Wildlife Photographer of Year at the Natural History Museum, London, returns this October. The 2025 edition will take place at the British Library, London, UK, on Friday 17th October. The one-day event will feature a world-class line-up of 15 award-winning nature photographers, sharing the stories, craft and impact behind some of the most recent iconic wildlife photography.

Programme Highlights

The full line-up includes a compelling mix of 9 x 20 minute lightning talks, a panel discussion on the need for conservation photography and two headliners, featuring award-winning photographic talent spanning 9 countries.

Highlights include:

• Working from Home – Jennifer Hayes, Anthony Ochieng & Nayan Khanolkar
  An exploration of what it means to photograph the wildlife in your own backyard, from the alleys of Mumbai, to ice floes in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and to the forests of Kenya – championing intimate and in-depth knowledge of place and species.

• The Human Connection – Shin Arunrugstichai, Javier Aznar & Rena Effendi
   A globe-spanning exploration of how our relationship with nature shapes the stories we tell—from the depths of the oceans to conflict zones and rural communities.

• Why We Need Conservation Photography (Panel) – Roz Kidman Cox (Chair), Melissa Groo & Jasper Doest

A powerful discussion on the ethical and emotional impact of photography as a tool for conservation—highlighting the shift from passive admiration to active engagement

• Wildscapes – Chien Lee, Fernando Faciole & Rachel Bigsby

Discover how photographers are reimagining landscapes through their lenses—

capturing the hidden drama and fragile complexity of wild habitats around the world.

Headliners

The full line-up follows the earlier announcement of this year’s headline speakers – David Doubilet and Karine Aigner, two of the most influential voices in visual storytelling:

• David Doubilet, legendary photojournalist for National Geographic, known for his pioneering underwater photography that captures both the splendour and threats facing our oceans. With over 26,000 hours spent beneath the waves, Doubilet’s work has redefined how we see and understand life below the surface.
• Karine Aigner, award-winning visual journalist whose powerful imagery explores the complex relationships between wildlife and human communities. Her storytelling centres empathy and connection, challenging audiences to see conservation through a more human lens. In 2022, Karine won the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Grand Title, only the fifth women in over 40 years to receive the accolade.

Kathy Moran, current Jury Chair for Wildlife Photographer of the Year and formerly National Geographic Magazine’s Deputy Director of Photography, is executive producer of the event.

WildPhotos 2025 is kindly supported by Focused on Nature whose mission is to assist in the protection and conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife and wild places. Focused on Nature believes photography is integral to this mission.

Lucie Muir, CEO of Wildscreen, commented: “This year’s WildPhotos programme is a powerful reflection of our shared belief—alongside Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Focused on Nature—that storytelling can shift perspectives and spark change. From intimate portraits of backyard wildlife to bold investigations into human–nature relationships, the 2025 line-up offers an unmissable journey guided by those pushing the boundaries of conservation photography.

Hannah McCartney, Interim Head of Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History Museum, London, added: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Wildscreen through what is set to be another fascinating day of insight into the world of nature photography. WildPhotos is a platform for photographers to connect, share and advocate for the natural world – and to push the boundaries of their craft.”

WildPhotos 2025 will take place a few days following the announcement of the 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition winners on Tuesday 14 October at 11.30pm BST, and the opening of the flagship exhibition at the Natural History Museum in London on Friday 17 October.

The full programme is now available online, with tickets for both in-person and virtual attendance available at: https://wildscreen.org/wildphotos/

The first 50 limited-edition passes include a free ticket to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition at the Natural History Museum.

The post WildPhotos 2025 – Full Programme Announced appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

The RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) were delighted to receive £2,867 donation from the SINWP Bird Photographer of the Year 2024 Competition.

The international photographic competition was run by the Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers in aid of the RSPB.

Well over 2,300 images were entered in to the competition and from the minimum £1 per image donation, the competition raised £2,867.

Since the Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers started the SINWP Bird Photographer of the Year competition, it has raised an impressive £16,138 in 7 years.

Colin Jones, The Society of Photographers CEO said, “We are delighted to present the RSPB with this donation! The competition was a tremendous success, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all the entrants for their participation and generous contributions to this incredible cause. Your support has made a real difference!”

Louise, RSPB Conwy Visitor Experience Officer said “We are incredibly grateful for the generous donation to the RSPB, made possible by everyone who took part in your photography competition. Your support will help us continue our vital work in protecting and conserving wildlife both here in the UK and around the world.”

This individual or organisation is fundraising in aid of the RSPB. They are not fundraising on behalf of or in any formal capacity for the RSPB, and the RSPB cannot be held liable in any way for the event or activity

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654

**Keep an eye on our blog for the 2025 SINWP Bird Photographer of the Year competition in aid of the RSPB! Opening soon!**

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In honour of International Women’s Day on Saturday 8th March, PermaJet are proud to launch “A Celebration of Women in Print”, a campaign dedicated to recognising and amplifying the voices of women in the print industry.

From photographers to designers, tattoo artists to educators, this initiative will shine a spotlight on the women who shape the way people connect and profit through print media.

“The world of print and photography are historically male-dominated industries, with women often facing barriers to entry and less recognition for their contributions.” said Charlie Kelsall, PermaJet Social Strategy Manager. “However, we are witnessing a wave of female-led initiatives that are actively encouraging and empowering women to enter and thrive in these fields.” 

For International Women’s Day, PermaJet aims to highlight and celebrate this progress – not only because it is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and diverse future, but because the unique perspectives women bring to these industries enrich the stories told and the work created.

Charlie said, “As a business with strong female representation, we believe it is our responsibility and privilege to shine a spotlight on women in print and photography, championing their achievements and amplifying their voices. By doing so, we hope to inspire the next generation of women creators while challenging outdated norms and building a more equitable industry for all.”

Throughout March, discover inspiring stories and valuable insights by visiting PermaJet’s YouTube channel, blog site, and social media platforms, where they will be celebrating women in print and photography through exclusive content:

YouTube: Watch a compelling panel discussion between PermaJet and SheClicks members, exploring the importance of their community and its impact on women in the industry. 

Blog: Read a thought-provoking piece by Adele Warner-Tate, founder of ‘Women in Seascape’, her journey in building a supportive community, and their monthly female-led challenges.

Social Media Spotlight Series: Follow along as PermaJet shines a light on innovative female-led businesses making waves in the print and photography industries. 

It’s true what they say, girls really do run the world. 

www.permajet.com

The post International Women’s Day | PermaJet Celebrate Women in Print appeared first on The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation.

LK SAMYANG, a leading global optical brand, announces the launch of the AF 12mm F2 RF-S. This compact and lightweight auto focus ultra-wide-angle prime lens is tailored specifically for Canon RF-S cameras marking a significant milestone as Samyang’s first RF-S lens. It delivers the widest angle available in Canon’s RF-S lens lineup, making it an essential tool for any photographer.

Capture Every Moment More Broadly
The AF 12mm F2 RF-S is an ultra-wide-angle prime lens that is versatile for various photography styles, including landscape, architecture, astrophotography, and travel. This lens provides a dynamic and immersive shooting experience with its expansive field of view, while the bright aperture ensures stunning clarity even in low-light conditions. It is designed to harmonise beautifully with your camera body and weighs just 213g, making it lightweight and incredibly portable – an ideal companion for all your photographic adventures

Holdan, a leading distributor of professional imaging, video, and broadcast equipment, is the exclusive distributor of the Samyang product range in the UK and Ireland. Holdan’s established presence in the market, combined with its vast experience in the distribution of top-tier imaging products, makes them the perfect partner to deliver Samyang’s newest innovation to photographers, videographers, and creatives across the region.

Key Features of the AF 12mm RF-S:

• Exceptional Resolution: The AF 12mm F2 RF-S offers exceptional sharpness from corner to corner, making it a stand out choice for photographers. With three extra-low dispersion (3 ED) elements and two aspherical lenses (1 H-ASP, 1 ASP), this lens effectively eliminates chromatic aberration, distortion, and sagittal coma. Perfect for capturing breathtaking nightscapes, it ensures every detail shines beautifully.
• Bright F2 Aperture for Outstanding Image Expression: The large aperture of F2 enables clear image expression even in challenging low-light conditions.The shallow depth of field effectively separates the subject from the background, while the minimum focus distance of 0.2 meters allows for more dynamic image capture. This lens enhances your creative possibilities by providing a more pronounced background blur, along with a beautiful starburst effect created by the seven aperture blades.
• Fast and Quiet Auto Focus: Equipped with a Samyang Linear STM (stepping motor), this lens offers impressive autofocus performance that is both silent and precise. You can effortlessly track your subject with speed and accuracy, ensuring you capture every unforgettable moment with ease.
• Convenient Features and Premium Design: This lens is compact and lightweight, measuring 57.2 mm in length and weighing 213 g, making iteasy to carry for outdoor photography. It also offers excellent compatibility with tripods and gimbals, providing flexibility in your shooting setup. The lens boasts a sleek matte finish with an eye-catching red ring that enhances its aesthetic appeal when paired with your camera. Plus, the convenient AF/MF switch on the side allows you to effortlessly transition between autofocus and manual focus, adapting to any shooting scenario. Furthermore, the weather sealing protects the lens from light rain, snow, and dust.

Kriss Hampton-Joyce, Head of Technology, Holdan, commented:
“There are few autofocus third-party lenses available for the rapidly growing RF-S system, which is why we’re thrilled to announce Samyang’s exciting entry into this space. They’re just getting started, and strongly so, with an incredibly compact, lightweight and high-performance 12mm F2 lens. We’re all about providing creators with more tools, options, and flexibility, to empower them to create. This new system launch marks another step forward in allowing us, as a leading distributor in the creative space, to continue in delivering just that.”

Availability: The Samyang AF 12mm F2 RF-S will be available to pre-order from major camera retailers across the UK and Ireland as soon as the embargo lifts, with first deliveries expected January 2025. For more information, visit https://www.holdan.co.uk/brand/Samyang

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