Canon News Report News & Deals

 Tuesday, May 21, 2013
The New Flickr - Is it Better?
Flickr Logo
Thoughts from a long-time Flickr user:
 
I [Sean] have been a Flickr user since December 2007. For most of that time I have had a Pro membership. I believed the Pro membership was a valuable tool for backing up my best images. If I wanted to keep an image safe, as well as show it off to the world, I uploaded it to Flickr. It's been great for that purpose.
 
I was on Flickr a couple of times yesterday. I uploaded several images from recent photography sessions in the morning. At that time, Flickr was normal. When I went back to the site to check for recent activity later that day, the "new and improved" Flickr hit me over the head like an iron skillet. The changes were anything but subtle.
 
Instead of the clean-looking interface of the past, my Flickr photostream page had a larger profile picture, a banner, and a new photostream layout. At first glance, it's actually kind of eye-pleasing. But now a lot of the information I wanted to be presented to people visiting my page has been buried.
 
Things I'm not fond of:

  • Titles and captions of your images do not show up on your photostream; the title only presents itself if you hover over an image in the new layout. One you click on an image, the title is placed at the far left underneath the image, and only a line or two of the captions visible. I spent a significant amount of time on the captions of many of my images - I want the caption (and title) to have a more prominent position on the image page.
  • Sets are no longer visible on your photostream page unless the viewer clicks "Sets." In order for a viewer to see a subset of my photostream (Portraits, Bridal, Senior, etc.), they have to know to click on "Sets." Before, the sets were displayed on the right-hand side allowing the categories to be much more obvious to the user.
  • You have to change your profile picture because the previous version was saved at a lower resolution. As the image I used for my profile picture is still in my photostream, why didn't Flickr simply use the same area of the image I had already chosen to automate the process of updating the profile picture? Instead, I had to wade through my images and create the profile picture all over again.
  • The process for creating a banner is less than ideal.
  1. First, you either have to use an existing image from your photostream or you have to upload an image to your stream if you want to use it for the banner (or be stuck with whatever default banner Flickr gives you). But what if I don't want my custom-made banner to be on my photostream? To do that, I'd have to upload an image and change its property to "Private." At that point, I can still make it my banner, but it won't show up to other people viewing my profile. That said, the image is still viewable to me and it clutters up my own personal view of the photostream.
  2. Second, if I did want to create an image specifically for my banner, where is the information on sizing requirements?
  3. Third, apparently, you can only select one of your "Recent" photos to serve as your banner. I originally tried to create a banner using an image I had uploaded in 2009 – no can do. In order for me to use that image, I would have to upload the image to Flickr again (placing it in my photostream), set it as the banner, and then delete the duplicate image. Why can I not navigate to an image in my stream and set it as the profile or banner picture from within the image's page?
  • If you were logged into Flickr, the home page used to display recent activity. Now, the homepage shows you huge images uploaded by your contacts. To get to the recent activities page, you have to go to different link (http://www.flickr.com/activity). Can Flickr give me the option to bring up the "Recent Activities" page when I go to flickr.com?
  • Flickr has changed its pricing structure and the benefits of each level. I liked the older, simpler structure better - Free or Pro.

Things I like:

  • Flickr released an updated Android app at the same time it rolled out major changes to the website. The app as long been neglected by Flickr, so I'm glad to see resources devoted to its development. In my opinion, the app has improved greatly. It's significantly faster, and the viewing experience is certainly better. However, it's still not perfect. Navigation isn't as intuitive as I think it needs to be.
  • Giving 1 terabyte of storage to free users is a step in the right direction.

Those are my thoughts having spent a couple of hours with the new Flickr. It seems that Flickr decided to copy the look and feel of Google+; so far, I can't say that I'm a fan of the changes. After I get more familiar with the interface, I may enjoy it more. But for now, a lot of the changes are hard to swallow. I didn't cover the details of the new membership plans, but you can read about them here.
 
Let us know what you think on our Facebook Page.

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/21/2013 9:19:40 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
Sony 64GB UHS1 Class 10 High Speed SDHC/SDXC Memory Card - $36.95 Shipped (Compare at $49.99)
Sony 64GB UHS1 Class 10 High Speed SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
Adorama has the Sony 64GB UHS1 Class 10 High Speed SDHC/SDXC Memory Card available for $36.95 with free shipping. Compare at $49.99.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/21/2013 8:27:43 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Monday, May 20, 2013
First Looks at Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS STM Lens Image Quality
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens
ISO 12233 chart image quality samples and vignetting test results are now available on the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens review page.
 
Compare this modestly upgraded lens to its predecessor, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens.
 
Update: 18-55mm STM Lens Distortion test results are also now available.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 8:13:09 AM CT   Posted By: Bryan
Yahoo! to Acquire Tumblr for $1.1 Billion
Yahoo! and Tumblr Logos
From Yahoo:
 
SUNNYVALE, Calif. & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Yahoo! Inc. (NASDAQ: YHOO) and Tumblr announced today that they have reached a definitive agreement for Yahoo! to acquire Tumblr.
 
Per the agreement and our promise not to screw it up, Tumblr will be independently operated as a separate business. David Karp will remain CEO. The product, service and brand will continue to be defined and developed separately with the same Tumblr irreverence, wit, and commitment to empower creators.
 
With more than 300 million monthly unique visitors and 120,000 signups every day, Tumblr is one of the fastest-growing media networks in the world. Tumblr sees 900 posts per second (!) and 24 billion minutes spent on site each month. On mobile, more than half of Tumblr's users are using the mobile app and do an average of 7 sessions per day. Its tremendous popularity and engagement among creators, curators and audiences of all ages brings a significant new community of users to the Yahoo! network. The combination of Tumblr+Yahoo! is expected to grow Yahoo!'s audience by 50 percent to more than a billion monthly visitors, and to grow traffic by approximately 20 percent.
 
The deal offers unique opportunities for both companies. Tumblr can deploy Yahoo!'s personalization technology and search infrastructure to help its users discover creators, bloggers, and content they'll love. In turn, Tumblr brings 50 billion blog posts (and 75 million more arriving each day) to Yahoo!'s media network and search experiences. The two companies will also work together to create advertising opportunities that are seamless and enhance the user experience.
 
Total consideration is approximately $1.1 billion, substantially all of which is payable in cash.
 
"Tumblr is redefining creative expression online," said Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer. "On many levels, Tumblr and Yahoo! couldn't be more different, but, at the same time, they couldn't be more complementary. Yahoo is the Internet's original media network. Tumblr is the Internet's fastest-growing media frenzy. Both companies are homes for brands - established and emerging. And, fundamentally, Tumblr and Yahoo! are both all about users, design, and finding surprise and inspiration amidst the everyday."
 
"I've long held the view that in all things art and design, you can feel the spirit and demeanor of the creator. That's why it was no surprise to me that David Karp is one of the nicest, most empathetic people I've ever met. He's also one of the most perceptive, capable entrepreneurs I've ever worked with," continued Mayer. "David's respect for Tumblr's community of creators is awesome. I'm absolutely delighted to have him join our team."
 
David Karp, CEO of Tumblr, addressed the Tumblr community, "Our team isn't changing. Our roadmap isn't changing. And our mission — to empower creators to make their best work and get it in front of the audience they deserve — certainly isn't changing. But we're elated to have the support of Yahoo! and their team who share our dream to make the Internet the ultimate creative canvas. Tumblr gets better faster with more resources to draw from."
 
The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the second half of the year.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 1:07:04 PM CT   Posted By: Sean
HGST 4TB Deskstar 3.5" SATA III Internal Desktop Hard Drive - $189.99 Shipped (Reg. $249.99)
B&H has the HGST 4TB Deskstar 3.5" SATA III Internal Desktop Hard Drive available for $189.99 with free shipping. Regularly $249.99.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 12:04:47 PM CT   Posted By: Sean
Expired: 60% Off Refurbished Canon PIXMA PRO9000 & PRO9500 Mark II Printers
Canon PIXMA PRO9000 Mark II Printer
For one hour only (12-1pm ET), the Canon Store has their refurbished Canon PIXMA PRO 9000 Mark II and PIXMA PRO9500 Mark II Printers available for 60% off with free shipping and a $5.00 Dunkin' Donuts gift card.
 
Note: Although the deal has expired, you may want to check out the Canon PIXMA PRO-100 Printer with Free Photo Paper at B&H - it's only $89.00 with free shipping after a $300.00 mail-in rebate.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 11:04:10 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera - $109.99 (Compare at $129.00)
Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera
Best Buy has the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera available for $109.99 with free shipping. Compare at $129.00.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 10:49:21 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
Canon PIXMA MG5420 Wireless Color Photo Printer - $64.99 (Compare at $98.00)
Amazon is featuring the Canon PIXMA MG5420 Wireless Color Photo Printer as a Lightning Deal – only $64.99. Compare at $98.00.
 
Features:

  • Print, Scan, Copy
  • 9600 x 2400 Color dpi
  • 15 ipm Black, 10 ipm Color
  • Print and Scan via Wi-Fi
  • Print and Scan with Apple/Android Device
  • AirPrint and Google Cloud Print
  • Print from, Scan to Memory Cards
  • Automatic Double-Sided Printing
  • 2400 x 4800 dpi Optical Scan Resolution
  • Print on CD/DVD/Blu-ray

Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 9:47:30 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
Wacom Bamboo Splash Pen Tablet - $52.99 (Compare at $64.24)
Wacom Bamboo Splash Pen Tablet
Amazon has the Wacom Bamboo Splash Pen Tablet available for $52.99. Compare at $64.24.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 7:59:32 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
Save 35% On Canvas, Aluminyzed Metal, and Poster-Sized Prints
AdoramaPix Logo
Use the following promotion codes at AdoramaPix to get 35% off on Canvas Prints, Aluminyzed Metal Prints, or Poster-Sized Prints.

Print TypePromo Code
CanvasPXCANVS35
Aluminyzed MetalPXMTL35
PosterPXPSTR35

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/20/2013 7:10:33 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Sunday, May 19, 2013
Weekend Recap for May 12 - 18, 2013

"This is The-Digital-Picture.com's Weekend Recap for the week ending May 18th, 2013
 
In the news...
 
On Tuesday, Nikon announced their fastest mirrorless lens yet – the 1 Nikkor 32mm f/1.2. The new lens features a silent wave motor (SWM) and a manual focus ring, a first for 1-series mirrorless lens. The lens is scheduled to be available in June.
 
Also on Tuesday, Canon announced the development of a new picture style called “Video Camera X-series Look.” The new picture style is aimed at video shooters and captures video with lower contrast for easier color grading in post.
 
And to wrap up Tuesday’s news, Canon officially announced the long-awaited Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens with built-in 1.4x Extender. When the lens hits the shelves later this month, it will carry an MSRP of $11,799.00. We have one on pre-order and are anxious to see how it performs.
 
On Thursday, Think Tank Photo announced the Logistics Manager 30 rolling camera bag. The Logistics Manager 30 features over 3,500 cubic inches of storage, robust carry handles, and lockable security zippers. And, if you’re interested in one of Think Tank Photo’s high-quality camera bags (including the Logistics Manager 30), use the links on our site to receive a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more.
 
In site news and reviews...
 
On Monday, Bryan posted his review of the Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens. The publication of this review was significantly delayed because of the difficulties involved in obtaining an optimal copy of the lens. However, once a good copy was obtained, the lens produced results with impressive image quality. As the Tamron 24-70mm VC is unique in this focal range with built-in stabilization, it will certainly prove useful to those who are successful in obtaining the best of what Tamron has to offer.
 
Also this week, we’ve added drop-down menus to the site’s menu bar to allow for faster access to the site’s most popular content. We hope you enjoy the small change.
 
And, for our deal of the week…
 
On Saturday, we posted a deal from DigitalRev where you could get a Canon EF 70-300mm IS USM Lens for $379.00. That’s more than a 40% savings off the normal retail price.
 
This has been the The-Digital-Picture.com’s Weekend Recap. Thanks for listening, and as always, happy shooting!"

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
Category: Weekend Recap
DateTime: 5/19/2013 1:50:36 PM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Saturday, May 18, 2013
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens - $379.00 (Compare at $649.00)
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens
For a limited time, DigitalRev has the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens available for $379.00. Compare at $649.00.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/18/2013 6:17:28 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
SanDisk Ultra Plus 256GB SATA 6.0 Gbps SSD - $159.99
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/18/2013 6:11:06 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Friday, May 17, 2013
Bower 24mm f/1.4 Lens - $499.00 Shipped (Compare at $599.00)
Bower 24mm f/1.4 Lens
B&H has the Bower 24mm f/1.4 Wide-Angle Lens available for $499.00 with free shipping. Compare at $599.00.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/17/2013 12:04:33 PM CT   Posted By: Sean
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Lens - $449.00 (Compare at $499.00)
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Lens
For a limited time, DigitalRev has the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM (Art) Lens available for $449.00. Compare at $499.00.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/17/2013 9:22:17 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
15-50% Off Canon Refurbished DSLR Cameras/Lenses - What's Left?
Canon Logo
The inventory at the Canon Store has diminished because of the current 15-50% off refurbished DSLR Cameras, Lenses and Flashes promotion. However, the following items were still in stock as of this morning.
 
Refurbished DSLR Cameras:

ItemOrig. PriceSavingsSale Price
Canon EOS 5D Mark II Body1,759.20263.881,495.32
Canon EOS 7D + EF-S 18-135 IS1,439.20215.881,223.32
Canon EOS 7D Body1,199.20179.881,019.32
Canon EOS 60D + EF-S 18-135 IS 959.20143.88815.32
Canon EOS Rebel T4i + 18-135 IS STM919.20183.84735.36
Canon EOS Rebel T4i + EF-S 18-55 IS719.99144.00575.99
Canon EOS 60D Body719.99108.00611.99
Canon EOS Rebel T4i Body639.99128.00511.99
Canon EOS Rebel T3i + EF-S 18-55 IS519.99104.00415.99
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Body439.9988.00351.99
Canon EOS Rebel T3 + EF-S 18-55 IS399.99100.00299.99

Refurbished Lenses & Flashes:

ItemOrig. PriceSavingsSale Price
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM919.20137.88781.32
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM319.9948.00271.99
Canon EF 50mm f/2.5 Compact Macro239.9936.00203.99
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM479.9972.00407.99
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM687.99103.20584.79
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM639.9996.00543.99
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM479.9972.00407.99
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS399.99200.00199.99
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II239.9936.00203.99
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash239.9936.00203.99
Canon Speedlite 270EX II135.9920.40115.59

Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/17/2013 8:33:01 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
LensRentals Illustrates How to Remove Dust From Your Lens
LensRentals Logo
Roger Cicala from Lens Rentals has published a how-to guide for removing dust from the following lenses:

  1. Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 AF-S (Many Nikon “D” primes)
  2. Canon 17-55 f/2.8 IS (Canon 24-105, 24-70 f/4 IS, 24-70 f/2.8 II)
  3. Canon 85mm f/1.2 L
  4. Canon 85mm f/1.8 (Canon 100m f/2)
  5. Canon 70-200 f/2.8 NON IS (Canon 70-200 f/2.8 IS I and II)
  6. Canon 100-400 IS L (Canon 28-300 IS L)

From LensRentals Blog:

"I [Roger] get asked about 15 times a week, 'How can I get the dust out of my lens?' The right answer is you don’t. All lenses have dust in them and it doesn’t affect the images at all 99% of the time. Even if you clean it all out, it will be back after you use the lens a few times.
 
There are occasionally times that large dust specs very near the rear element are visible in an image, though. There also is the very real issue of resale value; a dusty lens tends to bring a lower price than one without much dust. The right answer in these cases is “send it in for factory service, they’ll disassemble it and clean it.” Doing it yourself is risky.
 
After I give all of those answers, a lot of people tell me they have an old lens no longer under warranty, not worth the cost of sending it in for factory cleaning, and they are really handy and want to do it themselves. For those people, we’ve put up this post showing how to get dust out of some fairly easy to reach locations."

See Roger's full guide for cleaning your lens. Be sure to read all the warnings carefully before trying this yourself.

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/17/2013 7:35:16 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate for Photoshop CS6 Now Available
Adobe Logo
From Adobe:
 
Camera Raw 8.1 and DNG Converter 8.1 Release Candidates are now available. This release includes support for HiDPI capable displays, bug fixes, new camera support, and new lens profiles.
 
Photoshop CS6 customers traditionally have received camera updates through Camera Raw 7.x releases. This is the first time that we are providing camera support through a version of the camera raw plug-in that is a whole version number greater than the version of Camera Raw that shipped with a specific version of Photoshop. (Photoshop CS6 shipped with ACR7 and now we’re providing support to CS6 with ACR8.) As mentioned here, this change allows us to be consistent with our past policy of providing raw support for currently shipping products. However, when ACR8 is hosted by Photoshop CS6, it will not offer any of the new features described in Photoshop CC marketing materials for ACR8.
 
New Camera Support in the Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate

  • Hasselblad H5D-60
  • Olympus PEN E-P5
  • Olympus PEN E-PL6
  • Phase One IQ260*
  • Pentax Ricoh GR
  • Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G6
  • Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LF1

* denotes preliminary support
 
New Lens Profile Support in the Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate

Lens NameLens Mount
Canon PowerShot G1 XCanon
Canon PowerShot G15Canon
Hasselblad HCD 4.8/24Hasselblad
Nikon Coolpix ANikon
Nikon Coolpix P330Nikon
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 80-400 mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VRNikon
HD Pentax-D FA645 Macro 90mm F2.8ED AW SRPentax
HD Pentax-DA 560mm F5.6ED AWPentax
Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A013Canon, Sigma
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C013Nikon
Sigma 19mm F2.8 DN A013Olympus, Sony
Sigma 30mm F2.8 DN A013Olympus, Sony
Zeiss Apo Sonna T* 2/135 ZECanon
Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 2/135 ZF.2Nikon
Zeiss Touit 1.8/32Sony
Zeiss Touit 2.8/12Sony

Release Notes
 
Camera Raw 8.1 RC includes support for HiDPI capable displays.
 
Getting Started

  1. Download the Camera Raw 8.1 and/or DNG Converter 8.1 release candidates
  2. Quit out of Photoshop CS6 and Adobe Bridge.
  3. Open the download file and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Ask questions or share your feedback in the Camera Raw forum

Download
 
Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate - Windows | Macintosh
DNG Converter 8.1 Release Candidate - Windows | Macintosh
 
B&H carries Adobe Photoshop CS6.

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
Category: Adobe News
DateTime: 5/17/2013 7:13:55 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Thursday, May 16, 2013
Think Tank Photo Releases Logistics Manager 30 Rolling Camera Bag
Think Tank Photo Logistics Manager 30 Rolling Camera Bag
From Think Tank Photo:
 
We just released a new version of our popular large capacity rolling camera bag, the Logistics Manager 30. The rolling case’s endless interior layout options adapt to numerous equipment combinations and help manage all of the logistics of transporting and using a lot of gear while on location.
 
Its roomy internal dimensions of 13.75”W x 27.5”H x 8.25 – 10”D (35 x 70 x 21 – 25.5cm) allow it to hold multiple combinations of cameras and lenses, lighting gear such as strobes and reflectors, and accessories of all kinds.
 
Key Features

  • Holds and transports all types of gear on location.
  • Organizer side pocket for various equipment.
  • Interior pockets for extra organization.
  • Two clear accessory bags included for miscellaneous items.
  • Quickly deployable roller handle.
  • Large front organizer pocket.
  • Expandable front pocket for large items.
  • TSA-approved main zipper lock for added security.
  • Tripod cup, strap, and rain cover included.

The Logistics Manager 30 answers a question often asked by working photographers: ‘How can I transport all of my gear into the field, have quick access to it, and secure it from loss or theft? We took the design and engineering principles we pioneered in our line-up of award-winning rolling camera bags and applied them to this very roomy pro photographer logistics solution.
 
Specifications

  • Internal Dimensions: 13.75”W x 27.5”H x 8.25 – 10”D (35 x 70 x 21 – 25.5cm)
  • External Dimensions: 15.75”W x 30”H x 11.5”D (40 x 76 x 29cm)
  • Weight: 16 – 20 lbs (7.3 – 9.1 kg) (depending on accessories used)

Note: Use the links from this site to get a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Think Tank Photo!

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
DateTime: 5/16/2013 12:07:40 PM CT   Posted By: Sean
Metz Announces Soft Box Accessories
Metz Soft Boxes, Octabox, and Bracket
From Metz:
 
The extensive range of Metz accessories has just been expanded with the addition of new extremely useful components. Both amateur and professional photographers alike can benefit from the versatile soft boxes which are now available in stores. The Metz soft boxes are perfect for product, portrait and passport photographs. They swathe the subject in soft and even mood lighting. The practical soft boxes can be folded up and stowed in a carry bag which is included as standard – making transportation easy. The following models are available: Easy soft boxes ESB 60-60 and ESB 40-40, Mini soft boxes SB 30-20, SB 22-16 and SB 18-15 as well as Mini Octagon soft boxes SB 34-34, SB 20-20 and SB 15-15. The flash unit holder FGH 40-60 is perfect for attach-ing Easy soft boxes to flash units and for achieving the optimal positioning of the air-cushioned lighting tripods LS-247 and LS-200.
 
Soft mood lighting with Easy soft boxes and accessories
 
Easy soft boxes ESB 60-60 and ESB 40-40, which can rotate by 360°, are perfect for smaller product and portrait photographs. They ensure soft, even mood lighting and can easily be attached to a compact flash unit using the flash unit holder FGH 40-60. The flash unit holder can in turn be attached to the air-cushioned lighting tripods LS-247 and LS-200 for optimal positioning with respect to the photo subject. For even more precise lighting control, a front and rear diffuser is also included with the Easy soft boxes as standard. Thanks to the supplied adapter, both Easy soft boxes can also easily be connected to all studio flash units with a Bowens-compatible bayonet. After the photo shoot the Easy soft boxes can be folded up conveniently by the user and stowed in the supplied carry bag.
 
Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes for soft light
 
The Mini soft boxes SB 30-20, SB 22-16 and SB 18-15 as well as the Mini Octagon soft boxes SB 34-34, SB 20-20 and SB 15-15 are all ideal for smaller product, passport and portrait photographs. Photographers can use the folding Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes to swathe their subjects in soft and harmonic lighting. The Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes can very easily be attached to any compact flash unit using a Velcro strap. The integrated rear diffusers within the Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes allow for even more creative light diffusion. After the photo session, the Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes can be stowed and transported in their practical accompanying bags.
 
Quality by Metz
 
Metz develops products which satisfy the standards of tomorrow, today. The use of advanced technology in conjunction with innovative functions ensures that Metz products can always be relied upon. Our know-how and experience also guarantee technical perfection for the future.
 
Technical specifications for Easy soft boxes with accessories
 
Easy soft box ESB 60-60

  • Dimensions: 60 × 60 cm
  • Includes front and rear diffuser and carry bag

Easy soft box ESB 40-40

  • Dimensions: 40 × 40 cm
  • Includes front and rear diffuser and carry bag

Flash unit holder FGH 40-60

  • Adapter between compact flash units and Easy soft boxes
  • Adjustable flash shoe height
  • Can be attached to Metz lighting tripods LS-247 and LS-200

Lighting tripod LS-247

  • Maximum height: 247 cm / load: 3 kg
  • With air cushioning

Lighting tripod LS-200

  • Maximum height: 200 cm / load: 2.5 kg
  • With air cushioning

Technical specifications for Mini soft boxes
 
Mini soft box SB 30-20

  • Colour: white
  • Dimensions: 30 × 20 cm
  • Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini soft box SB 22-16

  • Colour: white
  • Dimensions: 22 × 16 cm
  • Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini soft box SB 18-15

  • Colour: white
  • Dimensions: 18 × 15 cm
  • Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Technical specifications for Mini Octagon soft boxes
 
Mini Octagon soft box SB 34-34

  • Colour: white
  • Dimensions: Ø 34 cm
  • Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini Octagon soft box SB 20-20

  • Colour: white
  • Dimensions: Ø 20 cm
  • Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini Octagon soft box SB 15-15

  • Colour: white
  • Dimensions: Ø 15 cm
  • Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

B&H carries Metz products.

Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
Category: Metz News
DateTime: 5/16/2013 9:36:28 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Updated: Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Preview
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens
The Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Review page has been updated to incorporate the newly-available information about this lens.
 
Links to the USA and UK press releases, the development announcements and also to some early user reports are provided.
 
I am very optimistic about the image quality that this lens is going to deliver and excited about what this lens will do for me.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/15/2013 11:37:08 AM CT   Posted By: Bryan
Canon 5D Mark III RAW vs BlackMagic Cinema Camera RAW Video Comparison

 
Lately there has been a lot of buzz about Magic Lantern's latest breakthrough - the ability to capture RAW video with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. While this is certainly intriguing news, the Magic Lantern Alpha Firmware is not ready for the masses just yet.
 
However, videos like these make us just a little bit excited to see what's in store for the future.
 
"Smith Rock" Video Shot with 5D Mark III Raw Video
 

 
For more information, check out EOSHD's Hands on with CONTINUOUS RAW recording on Canon 5D Mark III.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/15/2013 10:00:48 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
DxO Optics Pro v8.1.6 Now Available
DxO Logo
From DxO:
 
Support for the Canon EOS 700D/REBEL T5i, the Leica M, the Nikon Coolpix A, the Nikon Coolpix P330, the Pentax MX-1, and the Sony NEX-3N
 
May 15, 2013 – DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v8.1.6 for Mac and Windows, the new version of its image processing software of reference for all demanding photographers. With this update, DxO Optics Pro 8 now supports the Leica M (Elite edition only) and the Canon EOS 700D/REBEL T5i. Four other cameras complete the list of cameras supported by this updated version: the Nikon Coolpix A, the Nikon Coolpix P330, the Pentax MX-1, and the Sony NEX-3N.
 
Based on DxO Labs’ exclusive prior calibration process conducted in its laboratories, DxO Optics Pro offers many powerful and automatic tools for processing RAW and JPEG images, including the best tool for automatically adjusting contrast and light, and precise color management.
 
12,000 DxO Optics Modules available
 
DxO Optics Pro v8.1.6 benefits from the continuous addition of DxO Optics Modules. Since the last version, 267 new camera/lens combinations have been added to the library, providing support for even more [Canon, Leica, Nikkor, Olympusn Panasonic, Pentax, Sigma, Sony, Tamron, Tokina and Zeiss] lenses for [Canon, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony] cameras.
 
DxO Optics Pro now offers more than 12,000 DxO Optics Modules, each of which contains tens of thousands of data points about the intrinsic characteristics and flaws of its camera/lens combination. The DxO Optics Modules database, unique in the entire world, allows DxO Optics Pro to automatically correct all the optical flaws in RAW and JPEG images – distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, lens softness – with an unrivaled level of quality.
 
This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for photographers who purchased a DxO Optics Pro 7 license on or after September 1, 2012.
 
B&H carries DxO Optics Pro.
Posted to: Canon News, Nikon News
Category: DxO News
DateTime: 5/15/2013 9:03:24 AM CT   Posted By: Sean
 Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Canon USA Joins EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Announcement
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens
Canon USA has issued their EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Press Release.
 
Preorders. Get in line for this amazing lens: B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/14/2013 8:19:12 AM CT   Posted By: Bryan
Just announced: Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens
The Canon 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens development announcement was made on February 7, 2011. Today, well over two years later, the offical announcement has finally been made.
 
Here is the Canon UK 200-400 IS Lens Press Release.
 
Click on the specifications link on that page to get more details about this lens - including its abilitiy to accept not-built-in extenders in addition to the built-in 1.4x. Adding a 2x III makes this a 560-1120mm f/11 IS lens. Image quality at these focal lengths remains an unknown of course.
 
 
Preorders
 
My guess is that this lens will be in short supply with heavy demand - even at this healthy price.
 
Get on a preorder line: B&H | Adorama | Amazon
 
 
Overview from Canon
 
Designed to satisfy the discriminating needs of sports and wildlife photographers, the EF 200–400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X is a high-performance super telephoto zoom lens with an optically matched built-in 1.4x extender for maximum versatility. With a simple flick of a switch, the zoom range can be quickly increased to 280–560mm (f/5.6). This capability is extremely useful in applications where it is not possible to change lenses quickly, while also protecting delicate equipment such as a digital SLR camera’s image sensor in environments with dust and high humidity. The EF 200–400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X incorporates one fluorite and four UD lens elements, which provide excellent correction of chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range for professional quality images with high resolution, contrast and color fidelity, while a 9-blade circular aperture helps deliver beautiful, soft backgrounds. It utilizes inner focusing, ring USM, a high-speed CPU and optimized AF algorithms for fast and accurate autofocusing. And, with Power Focus mode, focus shifts are quiet and smooth, which is essential for filmmaking. Image stabilization is effective up to four shutter speed steps, with three image stabilization modes (standard, panning, and during exposure only) providing excellent results for a wide range of subjects. Optimized lens placement and coatings deliver outstanding color balance, while helping to minimize ghosting and flare. The lens is highly resistant to dust and water, enabling shooting even in harsh conditions. A fluorine coating on front and rear lens surfaces repels dust particles and makes the lens easier to clean.
 
 
I expect to have even more information available later today.
Posted to: Canon News
DateTime: 5/14/2013 12:43:31 AM CT   Posted By: Bryan
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