Back-button focus allows photographers independent control of focusing and shutter release, which offers a number of advantages. Its implementation on the Leica SL2 is particularly elegant.

In the nine months since the surprise announcement of the L-Mount Alliance we have seen big steps in the provision of both cameras and lenses to the new standard. Buyers are now almost spoiled for choice.

The L-Mount Alliance has given the camera indusry something new. It's a cross-manufacturer standard similar in scope to the micro four-thirds co-operative ten years ago and it looks as though it is succeeding. Sigma in particular is making a lot of headway, expecially with its high-quality Art lenses and the new and unusual fp camera which is proving a best seller in Japan.

Monochrome photography for landscapes and mountaineering: The choice between Leica SL2 conversions, the M Monochrom and the new Leica Q2 Monochrom

The leather-link Rock n Roll strap is a great companion for any camera. It is springy and comfortable to wear around the neck or over the shoulder. Now comes a narrower, less bulky version which is ideal for the Leica M and other compact cameras.

The elderly Olympus Mju II becomes something Nju for an extraordinary bikepacking excursion into Australia’s Blue Mountains.

This autumn has brought a bumper set of choices for Apple smartphone users. Should we go for the pocket marvel, the Mini, or max out on the tablet-sized iPhone 12 Pro Max?