This is the first of a series where I select a few products, old and new, that stick out as must-haves. Or at least, must look at! These Editor’s picks for November 2025 include a camera, a bag, some lighting must-haves, and a fun accessory. I’m Daniel Norton, Editor of Adorama’s blogs. These are my personal thoughts based on three decades as a professional photographer.
Leica M11 Monochrome Rangefinder Camera, Black
I had the opportunity to shoot with this beauty over the summer, and I was blown away. Full article forthcoming, but take it from me if you want a true black and white experience and don’t want to shoot analog, this camera is for you. The thumbnail above was captured with this beauty
WANDRD PRVKE EDC 18L Backpack, 10-Year Limited Edition Black
I’ve been using the WANDRD PRVKE 31L Backpack, Black for about 6 or 7 years now, and I love this thing. I use it for traveling and photoshoots, but TBH it’s a bit big for everyday, and I have been using an old bookbag to carry my laptop and a sandwich to the office. Enter the WANDRD PRVKE EDC 18L Backpack, Seth grabbed one, and it is now on the top of my list for gear to pick up. The external laptop sleeve and slimmer profile drew me in. The rolltop to manage size and carry more really caught my eye. The experience I have with WANDRD sealed the deal. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to do a full review of this bag in the new year once I give it a good amount of use.
Chimera Super Pro X Lightbank, XS, Soft Silver
There is a reason that most rental houses stock Chimera boxes. On many professional sets, you will even hear Chimera used as a generic term for a softbox. These boxes, made in the U.S.A., are top quality and meant to last on working sets and professional studios. Beyond the durability, Chimeras produce super clean light, so you don’t need to worry about color shift when adding them to your scene. This size is my favorite as I find it small enough to give me great control, but large enough to produce soft light for a portrait.
Speed Round!
These classics need little description.
Rosco Color Effects Filter Kit, 12 x 12″ Sheets
RGBW LEDS are great, but gels allow you to use the power of flash and still have creative color control.
Savage 2″x55yds Gaffer Tape, Single Roll, Black
Gaf Tape is great for securing any number of things and doesn’t leave that sticky residue that duct tape does.
Matthews Matthellini 3″ Center Jaw Clamp, Silver
For heavier clamping needs than a super clamp, these are my go-to.
Lee Filters 3/4 Tough Spun/FR Flame Retardent Gel Filter, 24×21″ Sheet
Let’s talk about diffusion! Spun has such an excellent organic quality that is noticeable but not obvious when compared to standard silk. I often use this as a front diffuser on my softbox.
Gift Guide!
These are things every shooter should have in their bag, and can never have enough of.
Leatherman Sidekick Multi-Tool, Standard Sheath
I keep a Leatherman in every case.
Leatherman Raptor Utility Shears, Blue/Black, Box
Scissors can often go places knives cannot.
Domke F-34R 11×11″ Protective Wrap, Gray
A stack of these is how I get my gear from place to place in any bag I choose.
What am I Missing?
I’d love to hear what you love, what you would love to have in your kit, and what you have used for years. Send me an email 42west@Adorama.com, and I may feature your review.
