The MTL-900 PRO Lightsaber

MTL-900 PRO

It might look like a Lightsaber (not really), but it certainly is a great LED light with many uses for Still and Motion Photography. I take a look at PERGEAR MTL-900 PRO and its functions on the video below:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNtG-F_byc4

I like how the light uses LED bulbs only on one side, enabling one to feather and direct the output. I also think that being able to remotely control the output can be useful, although as this uses infrared I found it to be difficult to use, particularly if the light is obstructed or the environment is generally well lit (outdoors for example). The digital intensity control works well, and enables gradual enough adjustments, although it would have been even better if the LED bank could be controlled by rows or columns, which would obviously allow for even more gradual adjustments, and control of direction.

If you have ever used the Icelight before (especially the first version), you will appreciate the ability to use exchangeable batteries on the MTL-900 PRO. Not only can you charge one battery while using the other (two batteries and one charger are included), but you can also power the light with the included AC-adapter, giving you even more ways to continuously use it almost anywhere.

For less than $150, this is an amazingly versatile tool that will help you to fill-in shadows, add effects, mimic practical light, and even serve as a key light. You can order yours directly from www.linkdelight.com

The MTL-900 PRO Lightsaber

First look at the PENTAX DA 645 28-45mm F/4.5 ED AW SR Lens

I am excited to share a first look at the brand new RICOH PENTAX DA 645 28-45mm f/4.5 ED AW SR Lens with you.

HD PENTAX DA 645 28-45mm F4.5 ED AW SR Lens Review

I only had the chance to spend a little time with the lens so far, but I can tell you that it is

• massive!


• super sharp


• fast (as in focusing speed)


• has nice bokeh (for a wide angle lens that is)


• optically stabilized (SR)


• has nano coating (reduces glare)


• has less distortion than the 25mm f/4


• accepts standard filters (82mm)


• well built


• weather sealed


• works really well with the 645Z


• has a great workable zoom-range for a wide-angle lens


• I actually prefer this over the 25mm f/4, because it is a much more versatile lens at a similar price point


• has virtually silent autofocus (in case you want to shoot video with it, this would matter)


• has a nice feel to it, and balances well

In case you wonder: this is not a walkaround lens by any means. While it handles really well, it requires some serious commitment when you shoot with it. If you shoot on a tripod, this won’t matter, but handheld is quite intense (as is with any heavy lens). As I said, I was only able to use the lens for a short period of time, and right before its official announcement, but I already took it out and shot some active lifestyle images with it.

I will have more images with detailed BTS from my next shoot, and a full review soon, but this is a strong contender for becoming my favorite lenses for the RICOH PENTAX 645 system.

Stay tuned

First look at the PENTAX DA 645 28-45mm F/4.5 ED AW SR Lens