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Press Release: Think Tank Photo Announces Airport Advantage Plus Roller Bag



Our friends at Think Tank Photo have just released an expanded version of one of their most popular rolling camera bags. By complying with carry-on size requirements, with the new Airport Advantage Plus roller you can keep your most valuable gear safe and near you when you fly. Plus, the roller’s ultra-lightweight design at 6.9 lbs. (3.1 kg) helps meet weight restrictions, yet features the same level of protection for which Think Tank is known. Its dedicated laptop pocket fits up to a 17” laptop in a padded sleeve, a 10” tablet, or an Eagle Creek Medium Clothing Folder for overnight trips.

By using my special link, you will receive free gear and free shipping not only when you order this new roller, but any Think Tank gear.

Continue reading for full press release.


Deal: $100 Off Datacolor Spyder5 Monitor Calibration



Today only, B&H Photo has two Datacolor Spyder5 calibration tools on sale.

Datacolor Spyder5PRO on sale at $139 ($50 0ff the regular price)
Datacolo Spyder5ELITE on sale at $179 ($100 off the regular price)

Datacolor Spyder5ELITE at a glance:
  • Calibrate Monitors, Projectors, Laptops
  • Studio Match Assistant
  • Includes Color Probe
  • Unlimited Calibration Settings
  • User Defined and REC. 709 Settings
  • 5 Ambient Light Settings
  • Before and After Evaluation
  • Video and Print Standards
  • Advanced Display Analysis
  • Comes in a Reusable Box / Case


Review: Peak Design Slide Camera Sling Strap (2017)



Overview : The most versatile pro camera strap in the world, the newly upgraded Slide can be worn as a sling, neck, or shoulder strap. Internally-padded nylon webbing has a smooth side that glides over clothing in sling mode and a grippy side that prevents slipping in shoulder mode. Dual quick-adjusters provide instant access and easy reconfiguration. Unique Anchor Link system connects quickly and dual points of connection keep your camera more stable than traditional sling straps. Plus, Anchors work with any Peak Design or 3rd party tripod plate.

Updates include a revamped silicone grip, upgraded webbing, lower profile strap/hardware transitions, and crease-free internal padding. Anchor connectors have been updated to be smaller, faster, and more secure.

Features :
  • Anchor connectors revamped - more secure, fast, and lower profile than ever
    • New canted/angled Anchors for effortless 1-handed connection
    • New thin Anchor cords fit through more camera strap loops/eyelets
    • 25% slimmer Anchor housing hardware
    • Anchors still hold 200+ lbs (90+kg)
    • Anchors work with any Peak Design or 3rd party tripod plate
  • New low-profile Anchor Mount for varying your strap configuration
  • New ultra-smooth nylon webbing with tighter, more durable weave
  • Upgraded silicone grip is more effective and durable
  • Strap molded directly into adjustment hardware for significantly lower-profile design
  • Wearable as sling, neck, or shoulder strap
  • Internally-padded webbing gives all-day comfort with no added bulk
  • Highly stable camera carry via 2 configurable points of connection
  • Works with heaviest of pro cameras, binoculars
  • Huge range of length adjustment
  • Webbing glides over clothing for quick camera access
  • Connects to strap loops or bottom of camera body via Anchor
  • Mount hardware

Quality/Usability : The Peak Design Slide Strap was launched in 2014 through Kickstarter and it has been my most favorite strap for the past 3 years. They're lightweight, stylish, durable and ultra quick to remove when I don't need them.

I didn't think it needed to be updated or refreshed but Peak Design thought it needed to in 2017. Peak Design launched a 5-day Kickstarter campaign that also featured the Capture Clip v3, Pro Pad v2 and the Slide Lite Strap (2017).


The Slide Strap originally came in Black and they also had a Summit Edition that came in blue and red. With the refreshed 2017 design, it still comes in black but now in ash with blue and leather accents. This follows their ash theme for the bags as well. The black still features red accents.

Included is the Slide Strap, four anchor links, hex tool, a small camera plate and a nylon pouch.


If you're familiar with or own a Slide Strap already, the concept and functions the same. The only difference is that the materials and certain design functions have been updated. The strap itself is slightly thicker than its predecessor.

The strap still has your handle to cinch tighten and loosen the strap. One thing that has changed is that the strap is now built into the buckle. Before, it was looped and stitched together. By incorporating the strap into the buckle, this eliminated the bulkiness and makes the strap much thinner.


The anchor mounts have also been reduced in size as well.


One of the things some people have complained is about the lack of grip on the strap. On the old strap, it had like heat transferred rubber that didn't offer much grip on your shoulder. The new strap has like 9-layers of rubber which is raised. This new method of grip would have people satisfied.

The padding has also been updated. Not only is it thicker but they are now using different material. If you curved the old strap, it would "fold" as if it was cardboard. With the newer padding, it doesn't do that. I personally didn't have that happen to me on my old strap.


Out is the standard plate that came with the old straps. The standard plate was bigger, squarish but worked with Capture Clips. Since not everyone owns a Capture Clip and some even using smaller cameras, the standard plate would protrude from the bottom of the camera. So Peak Design included these small plates that would work for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Ash strap will come with a silver plate and the Black strap will come with black plate.

You don't have to use them but this is a convenient way to attach the updated anchor links.


The updated anchors still look the same but has been refined. The cords are thinner and still hold up to 200 lbs. Since they are now thinner, you can actually sandwich them between your camera and tripod plate. The pucks themselves are also slightly angled so that they connect much easier and quicker.


Here is the Slide Strap attached to my Canon 5D Mark IV with EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II lens. I like to try and match my gear and the black strap with red accents would compliment my Canon camera and L lens but the ash has grown on me.

You can even use the strap for Peak Design Field Pouches and Range Pouches.


Conclusion : Overall, the Peak Design Slide Camera Sling Strap (2017) still looks the same as the predecessor but with upgraded materials and color. The new ash color has grown on me and looks great! The sliding feature still functions the same but now has the strap embedded into it. This eliminates additional stitching and added bulk to the strap.

The new grip on the shoulder pad works great and definitely a lot better than the thin layer that was on the old strap.






Review: Peak Design Slide Lite Camera Sling Strap (2017)



Overview : The newly updated Slide Lite packs the unrivaled versatility of Slide into a smaller package, perfectly suited for mirrorless and light DSLR cameras. Wear Slide Lite as a sling, neck, or shoulder strap. Seatbelt-style nylon webbing has a smooth side that glides over clothing in sling mode and a grippy side that prevents slipping in shoulder mode. Dual quick-adjusters provide instant access and easy reconfiguration. Unique Anchor Link system connects quickly and dual points of connection keep your camera more stable than traditional sling straps. Plus, Anchors work with any Peak Design or 3rd party tripod plate.

Updates include a revamped silicone grip, upgraded webbing, lower profile strap/hardware transitions, and non-slip quick-adjusters. Anchor connectors have been updated to be smaller, faster, and more secure.

Features :
  • Anchor connectors revamped - more secure, fast, and lower profile than ever
    • New canted/angled Anchors for effortless 1-handed connection
    • New thin Anchor cords fit through more camera strap loops/eyelets
    • 25% slimmer Anchor housing hardware
    • Anchors still hold 200+ lbs (90+kg)
    • Anchors work with any Peak Design or 3rd party tripod plate
  • New low-profile Anchor Mount for varying your strap configuration
  • New ultra-smooth nylon webbing with tighter, more durable weave
  • Upgraded silicone grip is more effective and durable
  • Strap molded directly into adjustment hardware for significantly lower-profile design
  • Wearable as sling, neck, or shoulder strap
  • Highly stable camera carry via 2 configurable points of connection
  • Works with all cameras, binoculars
  • Huge range of length adjustment
  • Webbing glides over clothing for quick camera access
  • Connects to strap loops or bottom of camera body via Anchor
  • Mount hardware

Quality/Usability : We reviewed the Peak Design Slide Lite Strap back in 2015. The Slide Lite is basically a slimmed down version of the Slide Strap and geared towards smaller and lighter cameras. I didn't think it needed to be updated or refreshed but Peak Design thought it needed to in 2017. Peak Design launched a 5-day Kickstarter campaign that also featured the Capture Clip v3Pro Pad v2 and the Slide Strap (2017).


Black with red accent is pretty much the standard color for Peak Design straps. However, the strap is now available in ash which has blue and leather accent. You can get a general idea of the color by taking a look at our review of the Slide Strap (2017) in ash.

Included with the Slide Lite (2017) are four anchor links, small plate, hex tool and a much more stylish pouch. No more nylon pouch that looked like something used for sunglasses.


If you're familiar with or own a Slide Lite Strap already, the concept and functions the same. The only difference is that the materials and certain design functions have been updated. The strap itself is thicker than its predecessor.

The strap still has your handle to cinch tighten and loosen the strap. One thing that has changed is that the strap is now built into the buckle. Before, it was looped and stitched together. By incorporating the strap into the buckle, this eliminated the bulkiness and makes the strap much thinner.


Nothing has changed with the anchor mounts and is still the same size and design. But due to the material being thicker, the bottom tends to have more of a loop. This isn't a big issue but something I should point out.


One of the things some people have complained is about the lack of grip on the strap. On the old strap, it had like heat transferred rubber that didn't offer much grip on your shoulder. The new strap has like 9-layers of rubber which is raised. This new method of grip would have people satisfied.

Due to the size of the strap, there is still no padding on the strap like its big brother, the Slide Strap.


Out is the standard plate that came with the old straps. The standard plate was bigger, squarish but worked with Capture Clips. Since not everyone owns a Capture Clip and some even using smaller cameras, the standard plate would protrude from the bottom of the camera. So Peak Design included these small plates that would work for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Black strap will come with a black plate and the Ash strap will come with a silver plate.

You don't have to use them but this is a convenient way to attach the updated anchor links.


The updated anchors still look the same but has been refined. The cords are thinner and still hold up to 200 lbs. Since they are now thinner, you can actually sandwich them between your camera and tripod plate. The pucks themselves are also slightly angled so that they connect much easier and quicker.


The image above is of my Canon 5D Mark IV with EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II lens. The Slide Lite will have no problem holding a full frame camera but it is ultimately a personal preference. For a camera of this size and weight, I would get the bigger Slide Strap because its wider. The Slide Lite strap is best suited for smaller and lighter DSLRs, compact and mirrorless cameras such as my Canon M5.

You can even use the strap for Peak Design Field Pouches and Range Pouches.


Conclusion : Overall, the Peak Design Slide Lite Camera Sling Strap (2017) still looks and functions like its predecessor but with upgrade materials and color. The ash is a very nice addition to the line and we'll be seeing it more in future Peak Design products. Even though the design has stayed the same, it's the little things such as embedding the strap into the sliding buckle to keep the thickness down.

The new grip on the shoulder pad works great and definitely a lot better than the thin layer that was on the old strap.

The only thing I'm not liking is because of the thicker strap, it causes the bottom of the strap to create a loop. When the camera is hanging down by your side, it's not a problem. When you bring the camera up to your face to take a picture, the loop is there.






Review: Peak Design Capture Clip v3



Overview : The all-new Capture is the most secure, convenient, accessible way to carry your camera, period. Unlike a camera strap, Capture keeps your camera rigidly stable while hiking, biking, or moving around the studio. Unlike a camera bag, Capture keeps your camera instantly accessible with the click of a button. The Capture system includes 2 components: a metal clip that clamps to any backpack strap, belt, or bag, and a tripod-compatible plate that screws into the bottom of your camera. Your camera smoothly locks into the clip, where it is held rigidly and securely. Press the lockable quick-release button to remove.

The new 3rd gen Capture is smaller, lighter, and smoother than ever before. All machined/anodized aluminum construction. Metal quick-release button and locking mechanism holds well over 90 kg (200 lbs). Beautiful new ultra-smooth finish enhances durability, and ultra-low profile design increases comfort.

Features :
  • All aluminum build, including quick-release button and locking pin
  • All machined/anodized finish for increased durability and smoothness
  • Smaller and lighter for significantly upgraded comfort
    • 30% lighter
    • 20% narrower
    • 20% lower profile
  • Embedded grip in backplate for maximum slip resistance
  • Contains 2 sets of clamping bolts
    • Thumb-drive bolts for easy clamping and unclamping
    • Hex-drive bolts for more secure/permanent installation or thicker straps
  • Available in black and silver
  • Works with any size camera, including heaviest of pro setups
  • Connects to any strap up to 6.4 cm (2.5") wide and 1.5 cm (0.6") thick
  • Carry binoculars, lenses, and GoPro cameras with additional plates/kits (sold separately)
  • Instantly access camera with quick release button
  • Redundant security lock prevents accidental release
  • Includes Standard Plate, which works with most Arca-type tripods
  • Camera locks into clip in 4 directions, enabling easier lens changes
  • All parts are weatherproof and resist rust and saltwater
  • Clip is backwards compatible with all Peak Design plates
  • Standard Plate is not backwards compatible with older Capture models

Quality/Usability : On May 2011, the original Capture Clip was what kickstarted (no pun intended since it launched on Kickstarter) to what Peak Design is today. Since it's release, there has only been one revision in 2013, the Capture v2. Size was the same but there was more rounded corners, curves and adjustments made to it.

Fast forward four years and going back to its roots, Peak Design has launched Capture v3 on a 5-Day Kickstarter campaign that also featured an updated Slide, Slide Lite and Pro Pad v2. Within 5-days, it raised $1.33 million from 12k+ backers.

But enough of this...lets get to showing off the new Capture v3!


The new Capture v3 comes with the new Capture Clip and thumbscrews, standard plate, hex tool, two long screws and a pouch.

The Capture v3 comes in silver and black, and is made of beautiful machined and anodized aluminum. It will eventually get scuffed up. If it doesn't show signs of wear, you're not using it properly ;).

Those who have purchased previous Peak Design products are familiar with the included pouch. The new pouch is not your typical nylon type pouches like those used for sunglasses. It feels more premium and better quality.


Capture Clip v3 still has the same design element to the previous Capture Clips but is smaller, lighter and much more comfortable. Peak Design removed the old screw lock that was in the top right and the back is a smooth finish. No more 1/4-20" tripod screw mount due to the size. I actually the screw mount on the bottom and I'm currently using my Capture Pro with a friction arm to hold my 7" monitor.

As you can see, there is only two colors on the silver: black and silver. The black is all black. No more combination of red, black and silver that is found on the predecessors.


The Capture v3 still swivels open but on the inside, is a rubber pad that provides friction and grip when mounted on a belt, strap or the Pro Pad. The previous Captures relied on a "sandwiching" method. I guess something kind of like a waffle? If one side was caved in, the other side would be raised to compensate for that void.


The Capture still has its twist locking mechanism. This time not in red. There is a line on the Capture and a line on the quick release button. When the lines line up, you can push the quick release button to disengage your camera. When you twist the button forward, the lines no longer match up and this will lock your camera.


The included plate is a plate we are all familiar with. It is still Arca compatible and there are four small holes on each corner which allows you to thread anchor links through. Since the plate is a square, you can still insert it in any direction into the Capture clip but it now has a lower profile. It won't fit older Capture Clips because the bottom of your camera will not hit the thumbscrews on the older Captures.

One thing that is different is that it does not have a D-ring to help you tighten the screw mount. Instead, you must use the hex tool. It was good to have the D-ring because you can just use your hands to tighten the plate if you didn't have the hex tool. But it was a pain trying to dig my fingers in to try and lift the D-ring up.

The rubber padding has a lower profile than the old red rubber on the older plates.


The above pictures shows the plate inserted into the Capture Clip v3. You can use old Peak Design plates with the Capture v3.


The mounting configurations haven't changed. You can still mount it onto your belt in a vertical position or you can mount it horizontally with the Pro Pad v2. Capture v3 mounts onto any belt or strap up to 2.5" wide.


The images above is on a few of Peak Design products: Everyday Sling 5L and Field Pouch.

Note: One thing I noticed is that if you have an older Field Pouch (before 2017), the Capture strap on the front is a little wider than the newer redesign. You can still mount the Capture v3 but it will require some finesse.


With the old Captures, if you wanted to mount the Capture Clip to a thick belt or backpack strap, you had to purchase a set of long screws. Peak Design opted to include the long screws with every Capture Clip v3. The long screws is more of a permanent solution such as mounting onto a backpack or a thick belt such as a Think Tank Speed Belt. This is not meant for constant removal. For use on a normal belt, the thumbscrew should be used.


Conclusion : Overall, the Peak Design Capture Camera Clip v3 still functions like its predecessors but with a sleeker and slimmer profile. I love the fact that Peak Design thinks about its current and future customers by making their products backwards compatible with older products.

It's also nice that they now include the longer bolts and not charging extra for those who want a more permanent solution or are attaching it to thicker pads.






Review: Peak Design Pro Pad v2



Overview : Drastically increase your comfort and stability when using Capture with even the heaviest of camera/lens/grip combinations. Works on the belt or backpack strap. When on the belt, Pro Pad enables top-loading Capture entry. The all-new Pro Pad is significantly smaller and slimmer than the original version, yet built from a semi-rigid high-density EVA that provides more stability than ever. The pad is seamlessly laminated with our weatherproof charcoal nylon canvas, giving it a complete aesthetic makeover. And, in response to Pro Pad v1 customer feedback, we’ve made the new Pro Pad even easier to setup and use.

Features :
  • Significantly smaller and slimmer than v1
  • Seamless laminate construction is ultra low-profile
  • Hassle-free setup
  • Drastically increases comfort and stability with heavy cameras
  • Works on belt or backpack strap
  • Enables top-loading Capture access on belt
  • Backwards compatible with all versions of Capture

Quality/Usability : The Peak Design Pro Pad was one of those accessories that was needed for the Capture Clip. The Pro Pad helped with different mounting positions of the Capture Clip but also offered support and comfort when mounted to your belt.

For 2017, Peak Design has redesigned the Pro Pad and refreshed the look. The Pro Pad v2 is now smaller and slimmer.


Nothing comes with the Pro Pad v2 other than the Pro Pad itself.


The Pro Pad looks like a wallet or the back of a cellphone case. It also follows that charcoal color that is similar to their Peak Design bags. The pad is definitely a lot slimmer and smaller than the original Pro Pad.


One of the issues Peak Design noticed was that not many people knew how to use the ProPad. To help that, Peak Design included two simple images of how to set up the Pro Pad with the Capture Clip v3.


The images above shows the process of how to set up the Pro Pad with the Capture Clip v3. With the Pro Pad v2, you can only install the Capture Clip in a horizontal position. With the old Pro Pad, you can mount the Capture either horizontal or vertical.

I personally prefer the horizontal position where you insert the camera from a top down instead of sideways. The Pro Pad can also slide along your belt if you need to move it (so as long your belt loop on your pants don't get in the way).

In addition to using the Pro Pad on a belt, you can actually use it on a backpack strap. So if your backpack strap is thin and flimsy where it has no support, the Pro Pad will help provide support for the Capture Clip. Unfortunately, I do not have a backpack with a thin strap to show. Basically, you will loop the back plate of the Capture through the Pro Pad and place it behind your backpack strap. Please the strap between the Pro Pad and Capture Clip so that your backpack strap will be sandwiched between the pad and clip.


Conclusion : Overall, the Peak Design Pro Pad v2 looks a lot more stylish. Even though it is smaller and slimmer, it offers great support for both belt and backpack.






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