Cameras discounted by hundreds? Filters for under $20? Tripods for half off? Yes, please! I found the best Fourth of July deals on photography gear

A videographer holds a camera on a gimbal with fireworks in the background
(Image credit: Adobe Stock / ale_mancuso)

The Fourth of July holiday is often prime time for summer deals – and cameras aren’t excluded from that. But amid all the red-white-and-blue discounts, some deals are better than others. As the US Editor at Digital Camera World, I write about cameras for a living – but there are some Independence Day camera deals that I would seriously consider, and others that I would skip.

This year’s Independence Day deals are likely impacted by tariffs, as a handful of key camera brands don’t seem to be offering very many discounts. Canon recently raised prices in the US, Nikon has upped the cost of several lenses, and other brands, including Leica and Sigma, have increased prices in the US as well.

The other factor to keep in mind? Amazon Prime Day hits just after Independence Day deals, slated for July 08 to 11 this year. That means the next two weeks should be an excellent time to scour the major retailers for the biggest deals on camera gear and accessories.

If you have used camera gear, you may also be able to score a steeper discount with trade-in deals. Canon has up to a $500 bonus on top of the trade-in value, available at Adorama and B&H. Sony has trade-in bonuses of up to $1,000 in addition to the trade-in value of the gear from Adorama and B&H.

These are the best Fourth of July camera deals that have caught my eye – and a few that look tempting, but that I would actually skip.

Deals on Cameras

Nikon Z7 II
Save $363
Nikon Z7 II: was $2,309 now $1,946 at BHPhoto

The Nikon Z7 II is supposed to be the higher resolution, higher-priced option compared to the Z6. But, thanks to the Z7 II’s age, the 45MP camera is cheaper than the 24MP option. The newer Z6 III comes with better low-light performance and upgraded autofocus, but for photographers looking for lots of sharp detail, the discount on the Z7 II is hard to pass up. B&H is currently bundling the camera body with a Think Tank Retrospective – one of my favorite camera messenger bags – as well as a memory card for $1,946.95, or get it bundled with the 24-70mm f/4 lens for about $600 more.

Nikon Z6 III
Save $313
Nikon Z6 III: was $2,509 now $2,196 at BHPhoto

While the Nikon Z7 II may be the brand’s best high-resolution camera under $2K, the Z6 III is the choice for photographers prioritizing low-light performance and autofocus over high megapixel counts. The kit with a 24-70mm f/4 lens is currently $400 off, or the body only option is $300 off.

Nikon Z30
Save $150
Nikon Z30: was $846 now $696 at BHPhoto

The Nikon Z30 is a mirrorless camera, but the camera’s compact size makes it feel more like a slightly larger compact camera. The first time that I picked up the Z30, I was impressed that the camera didn’t feel cheaply made, despite being Nikon’s most affordable mirrorless camera. Serious photographers may want to opt for the Z50 II instead with its viewfinder and advanced autofocus system, but the Z30 makes an excellent compact camera alternative or vlogging camera. It’s $150 off and bundled with a lens, bag, and memory card at B&H.

OM System Tough TG-7
OM System Tough TG-7: was $549 now $499 at BHPhoto

If I buy a point-and-shoot camera, it’s either got to have a larger sensor or an indestructible body. The OM System Tough TG-7 falls in the latter category. It’s a pocketable compact camera that can survive dips in the pool, dust, and drops – and it was even the camera that I used most on my last vacation. Unlike a waterproof GoPro, the TG-7 is more stills-oriented, offers zoom, and has an excellent macro mode for closeups.

OM System OM-1 Mark II with 12-40mm f/2.8 lens
Save $400
OM System OM-1 Mark II with 12-40mm f/2.8 lens: was $2,999 now $2,599 at BHPhoto

The OM System OM-1 Mark II is a fast and rugged Micro Four Thirds camera – and it’s currently $400 off with a kit lens. The Micro Four Thirds format means lenses have more reach, which, mixed with the 10 fps mechanical shutter and 120 fps electronic shutter, makes the OM-1 Mark II a tempting choice for sports and wildlife without the price tag of full-frame flagships. My other favorite features on this camera include the Live Composite mode as well as the IP53 weather sealing. Stabilization and built-in ND filters often mean leaving the tripod and filters behind for an even lighter kit.

Sony a7C
Save $200
Sony a7C: was $1,598 now $1,398 at BHPhoto

The Sony a7C has now been replaced by the a7C II, but the original is around $800 less, thanks to Fourth of July deals. The newer model offers better autofocus, stabilization, and video, but the original a7C is no slouch either, particularly as a budget compact mirrorless body.

Compare the Sony a7c vs a7C II before you buy.

Panasonic Lumix S5 II
Save $413
Panasonic Lumix S5 II: was $2,310 now $1,897 at BHPhoto

Getting started with a full-frame camera is often a pricey venture, but the excellent Panasonic Lumix S5 II with a 20-60mm kit lens, memory card, and shoulder bag is under $1,900 right now as part of B&H’s Fourth of July Sales. The S5 II’s stand-out features include the option for custom color LUTs, high-end video features like 6K30p 10-bit. I’m also a fan of the S5 II’s comfortable grip.

Panasonic Lumix S9
Save $300
Panasonic Lumix S9: was $1,797 now $1,497 at BHPhoto

While I prefer the S5 II’s grip, the Panasonic Lumix S9 is a remarkably small and colorful full-frame mirrorless camera that’s currently under $1,500 even when bundled with a kit lens, bag, and memory card. The S9 is an easy-to-use camera that’s excellent for beginners as well as content creators. Despite being more affordable and beginner-friendly, the S9 still packs in 30 fps bursts, real-time LUTs for custom colors, and subject detection autofocus smarts.

Image
Was $3,996 now $3,696 at Adorama

Nikon’s Z8 has high-end features without the high price tag of models like the Z9. While the $3,996 price is nothing to sneeze at, the camera is currently $300 off. The Nikon Z8 blends a 45MP full-frame sensor with fast autofocus, excellent low-light performance, and even 8K video.

GoPro Hero13 Black
Save $100
GoPro Hero13 Black: was $429 now $329 at Adorama

The GoPro’s latest action camera, the Hero13 Black, is $100 off during the Fourth of July sales, pushing the action camera down to $329.99. Adorama includes a microSD card and case in that price. Or, action enthusiasts can pick up a bundle with two extra batteries, a case, a memory card, and a handle for the original list price of the camera without all those accessories at $379.00

Nikon Z5 with 24-50mm kit lens
Nikon Z5 with 24-50mm kit lens: was $1,696 now $1,296 at Adorama

The Nikon Z5 has now been replaced by the Z5 II, but that means the older full-frame mirrorless is an excellent deal right now. Picking up a full-frame camera with a kit lens for $1,300 is a nice deal, and the Nikon Z5 impressively doesn't really feel like a budget camera.

Fourth of July deals on accessories

Lexar Silver Series Professional 1066x UHS-1 SDXC Memory Card
Lexar Silver Series Professional 1066x UHS-1 SDXC Memory Card: was $99.99 now $51.99 at Adorama

Memory cards are something I'm always buying, and now looks like an excellent time to stock up. The Lexar Silver Series Professional 512 GB is almost half off right now. Or, if you shoot lots of fast bursts or need a different type of memory card, Lexar also has deals on UHS-II cards and CFexpress.

H&Y RevoRing VND+ CPL Filter
H&Y RevoRing VND+ CPL Filter: was $189 now $89 at Adorama

The H&Y RevoRing is an adaptable filter that fits multiple lens diameters from the same filter. This variant is a variable density filter and CPL filter in one, ideal for blocking light for slower shutter speeds or wider apertures. Both the 46-62mm and 37-49mm versions are discounted.

Sirui Ultra Slim S-Pro Nano MC Circular Polarizer Filter
Sirui Ultra Slim S-Pro Nano MC Circular Polarizer Filter: was $63.90 now $18.90 at Adorama

Circular polarizing filters, or CPLs, help photographers control reflections. If I could only carry one filter in my bag, a CPL would be it. This option from Sirui is a steal for under $20, and both the 72mm and 62mm filter sizes are on sale (just match the thread size to the filter thread size from your lens' tech specs).

Tiffen Glimmerglass
Tiffen Glimmerglass: was $124.99 now $49.99 at Adorama

If you like the look of retro lenses, you should consider using a diffusion filter. The Tiffen Glimmerglass has bits of sparkle embedded in the glass, which reduces sharpness and gives light sources a beautiful glow. It's an exceptional tool for getting a more film-like look, but if you pixel peep sharpness, then a diffusion filter isn't the right accessory for you.

PolarPro LightLeak 28mm, 50mm, and 135 Gold Mist Filter bundle
PolarPro LightLeak 28mm, 50mm, and 135 Gold Mist Filter bundle: was $389.97 now $300 at polarpro.com

The PolarPro LightLeak lenses add a bit of retro light leaks to digital mirrorless cameras – and I found them exceptionally fun to play with. PolarPro has a special right now that bundles the LightLeak 28mm, 50mm, and a 135 Gold Mist Filter for $300, or 17 percent off when purchased individually.

Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit
Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit: was $89 now $29.99 at Adorama

Digital Camera World gave the Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit a 4.5-star rating for its simple set-up. The kit includes a ringlight for well-lit shots, a mini tripod, and a bracket to house both a smartphone and the light together.

Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 264AB
Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 264AB: was $250 now $110 at Adorama

The Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 264AB is a budget-friendly travel tripod that still supports up to 15.4 pounds of gear. The tripod uses rapid twist leg locks and quick plate mounting for easy setup. It comes with a ball head, bubble level, angled rubber feet, and a tripod bag.

3 Legged Thing Toxic Wraith Camera Messenger, Large
3 Legged Thing Toxic Wraith Camera Messenger, Large: was $179.99 now $94.99 at Adorama

A bag built well enough to rank on Digital Camera World's best camera backpacks, the Toxic Wraith Camera Messenger bag is nearly half off right now, with the large size even cheaper than the medium variant.

Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough 55
Save 40%
Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough 55: was $406.95 now $244.95 at Adorama

I personally own this hard case, and the Manfrotto Pro Light Tough Reloader 55 is a tough case that fits most carry-on guidelines and has lots of options for accessories like backpack straps and laptop sleeves (for an added cost). It's the case I grab for when I really need to make sure my kit is safe, and it ranks among our best camera hard cases.

Gitzo Legende Series 1 Travel Tripod Bundle
Save $400
Gitzo Legende Series 1 Travel Tripod Bundle: was $999 now $599 at BHPhoto

The Gitzo Legende Tripod is a sturdy travel tripod that’s largely user-repairable, a feature designed to give the tripod a much longer lifespan. Those features typically make the five-star rated tripod pricey, but B&H has a bundle that puts the tripod with a leather carrying strap, a camera backpack, and a mini tabletop tripod for $599, which is $100 less than Amazon’s price for the tripod only without all the extras.

Wandrd PRVKE
Save $60
Wandrd PRVKE: was $299 now $239 at BHPhoto

The Wandrd PRVKE is currently my go-to camera backpack, thanks to its comfortable straps, excellent organization, and expandable rolltop design. Wandrd has just launched a new version on Kickstarter – but the previous version has now dropped in price by 20 percent and comes in multiple sizes.

Atmosphere Aerosol
Save $2.84
Atmosphere Aerosol: was $16.79 now $13.95 at Adorama

Consider Atmosphere Aerosol like fog in a can. I’ve used this for more drama in my shots, and it’s a handy but affordable photography accessory. It needs to be used either indoors or on a low-wind day and pops best when backlit. It’s currently 17 percent off.

Profoto A2
Profoto A2: was $1,123 now $998 at Adorama

We gave the Profoto A2 a five-star rating for the amount of power this studio strobe packs into a portable light. Right now, it's 11 percent off at Adorama for the universal version and comes bundled with a softbox.

PolarPro LiteChaser 16 Ultimate Kit
PolarPro LiteChaser 16 Ultimate Kit: was $699 now $299 at polarpro.com

The PolarPro LiteChaser is a case that gives the iPhone a camera grip and filter mount. The Ultimate kit bundles that case with eight different filters. The kit is normally pricey, but it's more than half off for Independence Day and available for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.

3 Camera Deals To Skip

Nikon Z50: The Nikon Z5 two-lens bundle is currently $200 off, a tempting buy that puts the beginner-friendly Z50 with both a wide-angle and a longer telephoto. But the reason that I would skip? The Z50 bundle is only around $150 less than the Z50 II bundle with those same two lenses. I’m all for buying an older camera to get big savings, but to me the Z50 II is worth another $150. The newer camera isn't discounted currently, but it's still the one I would choose, especially with the 50-250mm lens as a budget wildlife set.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II: I’m always drawn to large dollar-off amounts, and the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is a whopping $3,000 off, which is half the original $6,000 list price. The trouble is that you can get a better mirrorless camera for $3,000 than the aging 2016 DSLR. I’d personally opt for the Canon EOS R5 (which is still an older model, but not 9 years old) or the R6 Mark II instead.

Nikon D850: The Nikon D850 is a fantastic DSLR – in fact, I used to own this very DSLR. I’d absolutely still consider the D850 if it were significantly less than similar mirrorless models. But right now, the discount on the D850 doesn’t put the camera much less than options like the Z7 II. Unless you really want the DSLR nostalgia and battery life, or don't want to adapt your current DSLR lenses, when the price is too similar, I'd personally opt for mirrorless.

You may also like

Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner. Here are the best Amazon Prime Day camera deals that we've spotted so far. Or, browse the best mirrorless cameras or the best compact cameras.

Hillary K. Grigonis
US Editor

With more than a decade of experience writing about cameras and technology, Hillary K. Grigonis leads the US coverage for Digital Camera World. Her work has appeared in Business Insider, Digital Trends, Pocket-lint, Rangefinder, The Phoblographer, and more. Her wedding and portrait photography favors a journalistic style. She’s a former Nikon shooter and a current Fujifilm user, but has tested a wide range of cameras and lenses across multiple brands. Hillary is also a licensed drone pilot.

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