Stuck at home? Many of us are. But while some work from home and just put their productivity on hold for the day, quarantine is also a great time to let the true artist out of you. You may want to get into photography, but you need the right camera to do it. Or, you're a musician who wants to start recording music, but you don't have the tools. Whatever art form interests you, there is great technology out there that can help you achieve your artistic goals. Here are nine gadgets that will speak to your inner artist.
Sony Alpha a6100 mirrorless camera
Advantages:
- Excellent image quality.
- Fast AI-based system
- Good view
The drawbacks:
- It can be a bit tricky at first
If you're looking to up your photography game, the Sony Alpha a6100 is a great choice. The mirrorless camera is relatively compact, but it's super powerful: it uses artificial intelligence for a host of functions. The camera has an excellent viewfinder, making it easy to take high-quality photos and videos on the go. You can shoot in 4K or 1080p if you want 60fps footage, so you cover not just the photography department, but the video department as well. In other words, with this camera, you'll get studio-quality photos and videos in minutes. Buy now
Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB audio interface
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- Two tickets
- Works with most computers
The drawbacks:
- Too small for some musicians.
If you're a musician looking to start recording at home, a good place to start is with a solid audio interface. Focusrite has been making high-end interfaces for some time, and the Scarlett 2i4 is perfect for the recording artist. You'll get two mic preamps and four outputs, as well as MIDI support and the ability to connect directly to your computer via its USB port. You'll still need to look at other parts of a recording system, such as microphones, microphone cables, and microphone stands. That being said, once you have an interface, these other parts are easy to add. Buy now
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- Great sound quality
- Little expensive
The drawbacks:
- Some possible sustainability issues
Musicians aren't the only group of people who use microphones. Podcasting is another art form that has become increasingly popular in recent years, and the Audio Technica AT2020USB+ makes it easy to get started with basic voice recording. The microphone has a number of built-in controls, including a volume rocker, headphone jack, and more. Buy now
Apple pencil
Advantages:
- Stylish and elegant
- It works well
The drawbacks:
- Expensive
- Only works with certain iPad models
The humble iPad has come a long way in recent years providing tools for artists and graphic artists, and if you're interested in unleashing the full artistic power of the iPad, then a stylus is worth buying. Apple Apple Pencil is currently in its second generation and offers features like integrated touch sensors to help you quickly switch between tools, wireless charging with your iPad, etc. It's important to note that the second-generation Apple Pencil only works with iPad Pro models. For other iPad models, you'll need to look at the original Apple Pencil. Buy now
Apple iPad Pro
Advantages:
- Ultra powerful
- Well designed
- Updated camera network
The drawbacks:
Speaking of the iPad Pro, if you're an artist who doesn't already have one, then it's definitely worth considering buying one. Sure, they can be a bit pricey, but the point is that the iPad Pro is easily the most powerful tablet on the market, and offers a ton of tools and software for artists. Even Adobe has versions of its apps for the iPad. The device was recently updated with a new camera array and a slightly more powerful processor. If you're a musician, visual artist, or any other type of artist, you can easily use an iPad Pro. Shop Now
HP Envy 5055 Inkjet Printer
Advantages:
- Elegant design
- Relatively inexpensive
- Easy to use
The drawbacks:
What do you do after finishing a work of art? Save it in a folder? Or hang it for everyone to see? HP has been making some of the best printers on the market for years, and the HP Envy 5055 offers excellent value for money. The printer has a resolution of up to 4800 x 1200, which should be perfect for most photos and designs. It also supports HP's Instant Ink and also has a built-in scanner, which could come in handy. Of course, if you're an artist who wants to bring your digital creations into the physical world, this printer is a great way to do it. Buy now
Nintendo Switch
Advantages:
- Tons of great games
- Portable design
- Innovative design
The drawbacks:
- Slightly short battery life
Maybe your art is creating a new YouTube gaming channel or learning how to game better than ever, in which case the Nintendo Switch is worth considering. Nintendo Switch offers an innovative design that allows you to play both on TV and on the go, making it the perfect choice for those who want something that they can play in all different scenarios. Buy now
Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 MIDI Controller
Advantages:
- Versatile
- Built-in cheek pads
- Supports most major DAWs
The drawbacks:
Are you looking to get started in electronic music? A great MIDI controller is the way to go. Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 has 61 keys, eight drum pads, and nine sliders, all of which can be used to control major digital audio workstations such as Pro Tools, Logic, and GarageBand. The keyboard comes with some of Arturia's most popular software, and using it you can create songs with all kinds of instruments. Buy now
Pioneer Electronics DDJ-SB3 DJ Controller
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- Relatively inexpensive
The drawbacks:
- A bit basic for seasoned professionals
Are you looking to get into the DJ game? DJ equipment can get very expensive very quickly, but this Pioneer controller lets you get in on the action without breaking the bank. The DDJ-SB3 offers an impressive scratch pad function that mimics DJ Jazzy Jeff's signature feel, plus it's well-designed and easy to navigate. It even comes with Pioneer's Serato DJ Lite software to get you started. Buy now
Now is the time to create!
Sure, you may not need everything on this list, but even a few tweaks to your overall workflow can help you get as creative as possible. An excellent camera, audio interface, or microphone can seriously enhance your artistic side, and who knows, your art could become your profession. Adorama has a large stock to ensure fast delivery times. Visit the Adorama website to find items that will help make your day as artistic as possible.