We scoured #CES2016 for the top media tech when it comes to being the best writer, broadcaster, journalist or blogger you can be. Here’s our picks from LG, Nikon, Samsung, Gatekeeper and Panasonic Technics to create a writing, editing, photography, videography and content producing paradise.
Best Android Smartphone for Photography and Video: LG V10
Once an Apple die hard, this freelance journalist was recently talked into buying an LG G4 instead. Jose at T-Mobile insisted LG’s Android-based apps worked almost exactly like my old iPhone, but he sold me on this phone’s camera. Although LG didn’t make a big splash with its next gen premium LG V10 at #CES2016, this media-worthy smartphone was on hand to gently guide Apple users away with its crisp 5.7-inch “handset” wireless device meant for higher-end cinematography. For more information, visit http://www.lg.com/us/mobile-phones/v10
Best Pro Camera for Media: Nikon D500 and SnapBridge
Nikon unveiled its latest camera – the Nikon D500 — with built-in Bluetooth connectivity for instant uploads, cataloging, sharing and posting. Every media whiz needs a professional camera and this nimble beast is compact, lightweight and has speed and “extreme processing power,” so says Nikon. Following the D300S, Nikon’s new D500 features “blazing fast” specs (EXPEED 5 image processing engine, multi-CAM 20K 153-point AF systemm 4K UHD video capture with DX-format CMOS sensor for “outstanding colors and gorgeous tonality”) and a way to share photos almost instantaneously via “low-level Bluetooth technology” branded by Nikon as SnapBridge.
Another reason the D500 is good for journalists, bloggers and citizen media is this well-balanced camera is excellent for long-distance photographs such as wildlife, sports, concerts, trade shows and press conferences. The super fast, 10-frames-per-second D500 can be outfitted with Nikon’s “super telephoto duo” lens (AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR), which gives a whopping “350-750mm equivalent focal range.” Need video? The D500 uses 4K UHD up to full high def (HD at 1080p) and has loads of other features such as HDMI output, picture controls, in-camera time lapse, auto ISO smoothing, dual UHD card and HDMI recording and “active lighting” to automagically balance exposure and “prevent blown-out highlights.”
The new Nikon D500 will be available in March. For more information, visit www.nikonusa.com.
Best Tablet for Android-Using Journalists and Bloggers: Samsung Galaxy TabPro S
Are you a journalist, blogger or media person using an Android device who is considering a tablet or laptop? We discovered why Samsung’s new Galaxy TabPro hinged “notebook.”
First off, the lightweight (only 6.3 millimeters wide and weighs just 693 grams) Samsung Galaxy TabPro S is powered by Microsoft’s Windows operating system with super fast LTE Cat 6 performance tech and the latest Core M processor. So, this all-in-one computer will pair perfectly with your Android phone like the aforementioned LG G4 or V10.
Secondly, Samsung tried hard to make this a “go anywhere” device, so its TabPro S engineers decided to integrate the best features of laptops and tablets together to create a premium on-the-go “notebook.” At #CES2016, Samsung called it a “seamless mobile station designed for all purposes.” This multi-touchscreen notebook also includes a full-sized keyboard plus a touch pad just like a laptop. The 12-inch display is powered by “the very first super AMOLED display,” which apparently has “deeper color contrast” for gaming, movies and social media.
And what could be better for media than 10.5 hours of battery life? So, the Galaxy TabPro S takes 2.5 hours to charge fully, but work all day and then some without plugging in? That’s definitely a writer’s tech dream come true.
Samsung’s Galaxy TabPro S won’t be available until February, so visit http://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-unveils-galaxy-tabpro-s-2-in-1-tablet-with-windows-10-optimized-for-productivity-and-the-best-in-mobility
Gatekeeper Brings On-The-Go Tech Protection
This hard-working, highly mobile journalist would never leave her equipment out of sight or mind, but if you do, there’s Gatekeeper (www.gkchain.com). This thin, rectangular wireless device (about the size of a credit card), which can be attached to your keys or stuffed into your purse, can “lock” your computer when you have left it sitting for a spell. Gatekeeper claims its device has a military-grade AES-256 encryption and runs on Microsoft, Android and Apple systems. Plus, Gatekeeper can be used for business as it allows network administrators to monitor, manage and track your device.
Best Headphones for Zoning Out While Writing: Panasonic Technics EAH-T700
Writers literally “get out of their heads” using headphones on airplanes, in coffee shops, in media lounges and even in their home offices (when kids can be a bother).
Certainly, these headphones are pricey at $1,200, but these German-engineered ear muffs are just the very best. Technics’ next gen in its T700 series are superbly balanced, comfortable and easily plug into mobile devices, tablets or laptops for brilliant sound anywhere, anytime.
Need the best in tech for your media empire? This year’s #CES2016 was a fantasy trade show for discovering products to wow the writer, photographer and cinematographer in everyone.
