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 Friday, June 30, 2023

Just Posted:

Sachtler aktiv10 Fluid Head Review
Sachtler flowtech 100 Tripod Review

This Sachtler kit is expensive, but the quality of the movements it enables and its fast setup speed are worth the price to serious videographers.

Support this site by ordering the Sachtler aktiv10 Fluid Head and flowtech 100 Tripod from B&H or | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 6/30/2023 10:15:30 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Wednesday, June 28, 2023

From 3Pod:

3Pod Debuts Everest Series of Carbon Fiber Tripods and Accessories at Adorama

3Pod’s New Series Feature Two 4-Section Carbon Fiber Compact Tripods and Two Arca-Type Ball Heads

NEW YORK, NEW YORK (June 27, 2023) – 3Pod today announced the Everest Series - a line of Carbon Fiber tripods and accessories designed to support photographers and videographers in any location and on any adventure. Featuring two 4-Section Carbon Fiber quick-release compact tripods and two Arca-Type Ball Heads, the new accessories give creators the tools they need to capture their vision with no bounds or restrictions.

The 3Pod Everest Carbon Fiber tripods and accessories are covered by a 5-year warranty and are available now exclusively at Adorama.

“The new 3Pod Everest Series is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, making any content-capture adventure possible,” said Usher Sperber, Product Manager for 3Pod. “Our mission is to aid and inspire photographers and videographers at every level through innovative design, durability, and easy-to-use systems. Whether you’re in a studio, on the streets, in rugged terrain or on top of a mountain, our product solutions will meet your needs without breaking the bank.”

3Pod Everest Series 4-Section Carbon Fiber Compact Tripods Equipped with Carry Case:

Made with 10X carbon fiber, the toughest travel 3Pods provide superior strength, and an innovative detachable center column design for compactness and extreme low angle performance. The lightweight tripods perform dependably in any environment and allow for still photography in the studio or shooting on location.

• Everest T3 4-Section Carbon Fiber Compact Tripod (MSRP $399.95) – Ultra-lightweight and designed for travel and adventure photographers, supporting up to 33lbs with a working height of up to 5.3ft.

• Everest T5 4-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod (MSRP $699.95) – The toughest workhorse with superior strength and stability for photographers and videographers, supporting up to 55lbs with a working height of up to 6.6ft.

3Pod Everest Series Ball Heads with Arca-Type Quick Release and Lever-Release Clamps:

The ball heads employ state-of-the-art ergonomic design, damping for flawlessly smooth movement and jitter-free panning. The two bubble levels assure absolute alignment in any three-dimensions. At the base of the head, the convenient inscribed 360-degree dial makes for easy, perfect positioning throughout the ball head's full range of panoramic movement. They are equipped with an innovative flip-lock clamping quick-release plate that lets users rapidly lock and release cameras with one hand.

• Everest H2 Ball Head (MSRP: $199.95) - Load Capacity up to 33lbs

• Everest H4 Ball Head (MSRP: $349.95) - Load Capacity up to 55lbs

Get the 3Pod Everest gear at Adorama.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: 3Pod News
Post Date: 6/28/2023 4:34:06 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan

From Sony Electronics

Sony Electronics Announces Free ZV-E1 Upgrade to Elevate Content Creation

4K 120p Upgrade Now Available for Users

SAN DIEGO, June 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics announces an upgrade for the ZV-E1, the world's most compact and lightweight full-frame interchangeable lens camerai, offering video creators maximum creative freedom and versatility. Announced in March of this year, the ZV-E1 is designed to offer the ultimate video creation experience.

With this new upgrade, the ZV-E1 joins a roster of Sony cameras featuring 4K 120p video recording, including the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III, and the FX6, FX3, and FX30 from Sony's Cinema Line. This feature enables faster high-speed frame rate video recording, resulting in smooth slow-motion footage that is five times slower than standard 24fps, highlighting Sony's commitment to providing groundbreaking technology for all creators.

The upgrade also introduces Full HD 240p recording capability to the ZV-E1, providing even more flexibility for the video creator.

The original release of the ZV-E1 showcased impressive video performance with the ability to record high-quality 4K video at 10-bit 4:2:2 with full pixel readout, without pixel binning, and with minimized rolling shutter. This latest upgrade further enhances the camera's video capabilities and is unlocked through Sony's Creators' Cloud platform.

Sony's Creators' Cloud, designed for content creators of all types, offers services and applications optimized for the entire creative process, from shooting to collaboration with creators worldwide. This integration includes the Creators' App, a mobile application that facilitates seamless content transfer from camera to cloudii.

Completing the ZV-E1 upgrade via the Creators' Cloud is a simple process. Users sign into their Creators' Cloud account, access the Upgrade page, input their ZV-E1 model serial number, and download a free license. Installation can be performed via an SD card or with a USB plug-in. With the Creators' Cloud platform, users can also easily manage and reinstall licenses via the License Management pageii. A Sony Creators' Cloud account is required to access the license to upgrade.

Upgrade is available as of today, June 28, 2023, via the Creators' Cloud application at no additional cost to Alpha ZV-E1 users.

For more information about the ZV-E1 upgrade, please visit Sony's official website: https://creatorscloud.sony.net/cameraupgrade/4k120p/.

Get your Sony ZV-E1 at B&H.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sony Announcements
Post Date: 6/28/2023 8:56:20 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Think Tank Photo just announced the MindShift Backlight XP 26L. The MindShift Gear BackLight 26L is currently my most-used backpack. The new XP version features X-pac Sailcloth, a lightweight yet incredibly durable material.

Learn more and place an order at Think Tank Photo (limited supply available).

Don't forget that you'll get a free gift and free shipping when using this site's links for your purchase at Think Tank Photo ($50.00 minimum purchase required).

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Think Tank Photo News
Post Date: 6/27/2023 11:22:59 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens firmware update version 03 is available for download.

Firmware Version 03 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

  1. Improves AF performance

While the benefits list is short, everyone appreciates better AF performance.

Get the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens at B&H.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sony Firmware Updates
Post Date: 6/27/2023 9:02:35 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Sunday, June 25, 2023

Last fall, my oldest and her husband were blessed with a son, Elliott. Right, that makes me a grandfather, and no other word has made me feel older. If you have followed this site from the beginning (celebrating 20 years this fall), it might make you feel old too.

It was time for another round of Elliott pictures. Timing baby pictures, even for babies as adorable as Elliott (I admit bias in that regard), revolves around the short durations between eating, sleeping, and being fussy.

It was nearly noon when I got the "We're ready!" call. Outdoor pics were requested, and the available lighting was from a bright overhead sun. The good location option under this bright spotlighting condition is facing outward from just inside a shade, yielding a large, but directional, soft light. A patio was the choice for this example.

These pics were all about Elliott, and a sense of place was not important. The Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens was my easy first choice. Especially with the close subject distance required to fill the frame with a baby, this lens easily turned the background into a strong blur.

The shallow depth of field produced by the 135mm and f/1.8 combination at close distances challenges a camera's AF system. With a DSLR, a significant percentage of always-moving baby pics with such a lens would be at least slightly out of focus, and getting a perfectly focused image combined with the perfect baby pose is difficult.

With the latest round of mirrorless cameras, the challenge has become selecting the favorite image to share (and having the fortitude to delete cute baby pictures to avoid overload). The Canon EOS R5 in servo mode with people eye detection AF enabled allowed me to focus on framing and shutter release timing. The camera's results were nearly perfect. Image selection was almost exclusively based on Elliott and I coordinating on the timing and framing.

Post processing primarily involved use of the drool and mulch removal tools. Check out how sharp this eye is:

Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens Sharp Eye Crop Example

Most results looked like this. Drool inspiring.

Hopefully you picked up a photo tip and felt the joy of this little boy.


A larger version of this image is available here.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
135mm  f/1.8  1/800s
ISO 100
5464 x 8192px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/25/2023 7:30:00 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Thursday, June 22, 2023

While you may or may not think this image is "great", the bird is undoubtedly a "great egret", and this beautiful bird is a great subject, especially at Gatorland, where they are acclimated to people.

Combine the permitted close proximity with the greatness of the Canon EOS R7 and RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens combination, providing an ultra-high-resolution APS-C imaging sensor and a tight angle of view at 500mm, and creative bird headshots become easy.

In this example, another egret behind the subject provided an all-white background, making the colorful bill and eye stand out artistically.


A larger version of this image is available here.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
500mm  f/7.1  1/320s
ISO 320
6960 x 4640px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/22/2023 3:05:08 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan

Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art Lens firmware update version .04 is available for download.

Firmware Version .04 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

  1. AF assist function during video recording is now supported.
    *Only SONY camera models with AF assist function are supported.

Get the Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art Lens at B&H.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sigma Firmware Updates
Post Date: 6/22/2023 8:50:11 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Sunday, June 18, 2023

Do you ever dream of the perfect shot playing out before you? For example, a huge bull moose emerging from hemlocks into a clearing while walking over a bed of bright red huckleberries? This cooperative bull meant I didn't have to wake up from that dream.

As I said before, when many miles are on the wildlife photography hiking plan, the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens is probably on my camera, the Canon EOS R5 in this case.


A larger version of this image is available here.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
135mm  f/4.5  1/500s
ISO 1600
8192 x 5560px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/18/2023 7:30:00 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Friday, June 16, 2023

With the sustained write speed, the performance factor that usually matters most, on the label, new from ProGrade Digital:

PROGRADE DIGITAL ANNOUNCES HIGHER CAPACITY 3rd GENERATION CFEXPRESS TYPE B 2TB MEMORY CARD

The CFexpress 2TB Gold Memory Cards Provide Dramatically Improved Specifications Needed for Longer Duration, High-Resolution Video Applications at Very Attractive Price Points

San Jose, CA June 16, 2023, 8:00 am — ProGrade Digital, Inc., founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces its new higher capacity 3rd generation of 2TB CFexpress™ Type B Gold memory cards. This new generation features the same industry-leading quality of ProGrade current 2nd generation 128GB and 256GB capacity cards - leveraging PCIe, Gen 3 interconnect with NVMe 1.3 host controller interface. ProGrade Digital 3rd generation CFexpress 2TB cards provide read speeds of up to 1,700MB/s and burst write speeds of up to 1,500MB/s and sustained write speeds of up to 1,300MB/s – ideally suited for high-resolution video capture applications. To differentiate the new generation from prior generations, the sustained write speed is now clearly stated on the card’s top label.

“The introduction of our 3rd generation CFexpress 2TB Gold cards provides the extra-large capacity and performance needed for a very broad range of video capture needs,” said Wes Brewer, founder, and CEO of ProGrade Digital. “Our introduction of a 2TB capacity point, ensures that nearly all video capture modes can be utilized while also meeting traditional read speeds for quick offloading.”

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B 2TB Gold Memory Card:

  • Maximum read speed up to 1700MB/s
  • Burst write speed up to 1500MB/s
  • Minimum sustained write speed up to 1,300MB/s
  • Capacity: 2TB
  • MSRP: $799.99

CFexpress Type B 2TB Delivers:

  • Fully compliant with CompactFlash™ Association 2.0 specification
  • NVMe host interface with PCIe Gen3 X2 interconnect
  • Extended battery life and low standby power through NVMe PS0 – PS4 support
  • Metal enclosure for improved durability and heat dissipation
  • Thermal throttling protects the card from overheating
  • Laser etched unique serial numbering for the tracking of key components and manufacturing data for the highest quality control
  • Temperature ranges: operating 14°F to 158°F/ -10°C to 70°C; storage -4°F to 185°F/ - 20°C to 85°C
  • Packaging: Biodegradable fiber
  • Refresh Pro ready*
  • X-ray proof and shock-proof
  • 3-year warranty

Get the ProGrade Digital 2TB Gold CFexpress Type B Memory Card at B&H.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: ProGrade Digital News
Post Date: 6/16/2023 11:02:14 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Thursday, June 15, 2023

I know, my daughter graduated from college a couple of years ago, but my image processing backlog is ... eh, maybe I'll share that number later. It's high. Anyway, I want to talk about portraits today, so I selected this graduation portrait to final process and share.

When capturing a portrait image, the goal is usually to emphasize the subject. Competing for that attention is everything else in the frame. While those additional elements are often not removable, they can be blurred to reduce the sharp lines of contrast that catch and pull the viewer's eye.

An outstanding way to accomplish the blurred background goal is to use an ultra-wide aperture, creating a shallow depth of field that leaves the background strongly out of focus.

Sometimes, a sense of place is desired for the portrait. The 50mm angle of view is wide enough to incorporate those identifying elements without magnifying them into obscurity.

The Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens or Sony's alternative, the FE 50mm F1.2 GM Lens, is a superb choice for this goal.

Here, the subject's head is aligned between the two buildings to further reduce background distractions.

Also check out The Graduation Exit and Athletic Graduation Portrait After Sunset images.


A larger version of this image is available here.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
50mm  f/1.2  1/1000s
ISO 100
8192 x 5464px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/15/2023 12:24:16 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Let's talk about getting the right shutter speed for airshow photography. This discussion is largely seeking or avoiding motion blur.

Seeking opposites for the same event may seem strange, but moving parts on an airborne aircraft should be blurred to illustrate movement, to avoid the parked-in-the-sky-appearance. Primarily, helicopter and airplane rotor and propeller blades appear best when blurred, while non-moving parts look best sharp.

Blur is created when subject details move across pixels on the imaging sensor during the exposure. The movement can be from the subject, the camera, or both, and the movement relationship between the two is what determines the amount of blur.

Higher-density imaging sensors essentially magnify blur, but the final output size equalizes this difference.

Motion rendered large in the frame, close or magnified with a longer focal length, will be stronger than that of the same motion rendered small in the frame. So, subject distance and focal length play into the decision.

When there are multiple movements in the frame, blur differences occur. Turning the zoom ring affects change in all directions, and focal length zooming during the exposure can create a blur that panning cannot mitigate.

With so many factors coming into play, and with those factors changing constantly, airshow shutter speed rules are imperfect. Still, especially for those not regularly photographing airshows (or not having the ability or interest to change shutter speeds constantly during a pass), rules are helpful.

Let's start with capturing the motion blur. Try starting with 1/400 or 1/500 second exposures to blur airplane and helicopter props and rotors. While this speed is a good starting point for motion blur, unfortunately, it is not easy to keep fast aircraft sharp at these exposure durations, and you can expect a high blurry aircraft ratio in the results.

Jets do not show moving parts on the exterior, and they typically move faster. Thus, there is no need to blur any portion of the subject (though a blurred ground background may be desired), and fast shutter speeds are the best choice to stop the motion. Figure 1/1600 or faster.

When jets are flying in multiple directions, as illustrated in this image, the speed and direction of all aircraft in relation to the camera's panning direction must be accounted for, and stopping all the action requires a faster shutter speed than when panning with a single jet or with a formation of jets flying in the same direction. Freezing both planes in the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds opposing pass routines requires an extremely fast shutter speed, considerably faster than the 1/2500 exposure used for this image.

Obtaining fast shutter speeds means higher ISO settings for adequately bright results. As mentioned in the last Blue Angels image I shared, aircraft are not super detailed and the sky lacks detail. This means that noise reduction can be applied without much loss of detail, smoothing the high ISO noise.

Use the rules for insurance level settings and check the results between passes. If you are getting consistently sharp prop aircraft at 1/400, try longer exposures for greater blur (and perhaps pan-blur the ground-based background when such avails itself). If all your jets are sharp at 1/1600, consider trying a longer exposure.

While I'm talking about airshow photography here, the concepts are transferable to other photographic pursuits.


A larger version of this image is available here.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
500mm  f/7.1  1/2500s
ISO 640
3799 x 5331px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/14/2023 10:52:30 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Monday, June 12, 2023

Check out Lowepro's latest backpacks and camera box at B&H.

The larger backpacks provide plenty of open space and feature bring-your-own padded storage. I've been using this style of pack with increasing frequency, including with Lowepro Photo Active TLZ AW Top-Loader Camera Bags.

I often carry an extremely lightweight collapsible backpack similar to the RunAbout when traveling. It makes a good emergency pack, including when forced to gate check a larger pack, and it is great when only the basics are needed (such as a lunch).

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Lowepro News
Post Date: 6/12/2023 10:08:23 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Saturday, June 10, 2023

On a trip targeting the Bisti / De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area in New Mexico, I ended up in Bears Ears National Monument, Utah — twice.

Why? Two reasons.

First, 3 days of sand and dust storms (even stones were in the air) provided an unfavorable New Mexico greeting. Second, Bears Ears National Monument has some great photo subjects.

I told you that before. This image is of Falling Rood Ruin Cliff Dwelling in Cedar Mesa, and this image capture shares the same circumstances and concepts as House on Fire.

Late in the morning, the sun reaches the warm-toned rock below this ancient Puebloan granary, creating a warm-toned light that reflects up into the massive rock overhang.

The name suggests the unique feature of this subject — the chunks of roof that appear to have fallen. While walking under this overhang, one can't help but wonder when the next chunk of roof will let go.

This image was processed using the cloudy white balance setting, cooler than the shade option technically right for the scenario (6500k vs. 7500k), with a bit of vibrance (+30) to bring out the richness in the colors.

While the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens was in the BackLight 26L, a cliff immediately behind this tripod position ensured there was no backing up. The Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens covered all the angles I needed at this location. This corner-to-corner sharp image is a single shot.

The 12mm angle of view captures a vast portion of the scene, including the lines in the rock under the structure.


A larger version of this image is available here.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/10/2023 7:30:00 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Friday, June 9, 2023

At the beginning of each year, I browse the US Air Force Thunderbirds and US Navy Blue Angels airshow schedules, adding the most-local events to my calendar. More often than not, the timing and distance prevent my attendance. Those two factors aligned optimally this year, and I was privileged to photograph the recent Pocono Raceway Airshow.

The same awesome factors of the auto racing typically featured at this venue, including speed and precision, align nicely with those of the airshow events, and the Blue Angels performing on this day never disappoint. Though lacking a runway, Pocono Raceway's massive grandstand, combined with clear air space and the sun positioned behind the show, is an ideal setup.

What is the best airshow lens? I opted for the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens for this event.

I also had a Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens with me for the single jet performances. This lens provided more reach, and the f/4 aperture enabled lower ISO settings.

The size and weight of the 600 made handheld tracking of the fast planes challenging and tiring. Thus, the RF 100-500 got primary use.

While the 100-500 required a higher ISO setting with the f/7.1 aperture in use, the bright day kept the f/7.1 ISO settings reasonable. In addition, planes are not super detailed (and the sky lacks detail), allowing noise reduction to be applied without much loss of detail.

With the light levels staying rather consistent this afternoon, a fully manual exposure was selected. The exposure consistency of images captured on each pass (or many passes) made mass brightness adjustments, if needed, easy.

While there were many times when 500mm was not long enough in front of a full-frame Canon EOS R5, there were times when the formation was too close for even 100mm, as illustrated here (well, 118mm to be specific).

 
Camera and Lens Settings
118mm  f/7.1  1/2000s
ISO 640
6554 x 4371px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/9/2023 9:04:48 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Thursday, June 8, 2023

Just posted: Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens Review.

Designed for astrophotography.

Support this site by ordering the Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens from B&H | Adorama

Please share!

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 6/8/2023 12:34:43 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan

The Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens is available for order at B&H.

More information is available here: Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens

From Sigma Corporation of America:

SIGMA Announces 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art – the World’s First 14mm F1.4 Lens – Designed Especially for Astrophotography

Ronkonkoma, NY – June 8, 2023 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky images possible.

Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a full-frame, ultra wide-angle prime designed exclusively for mirrorless camera systems, and is available in Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount.

This lens offers a full set of features designed for astrophotography including a removable tripod socket, MFL switch (Manual Focus Lock function), lens heater retainer, rear filter holder, and a specially-designed front cap including a NEW locking mechanism and NEW filter storage slots. All this, plus thorough aberration correction make this possibly the best lens ever made for astrophotography. Its ultra-wide 14mm angle of view that captures wide starry skies and bright F1.4 aperture that minimizes exposure time are ideal specifications for astrophotography. Incredibly sharp from corner to corner with splash and dust-resistant construction, this lens retains the same high performance and quality standards found within the SIGMA F1.4 Art lens lineup.

The astrophotography-focused feature set and total optical performance make this an excellent lens for high-end architecture, real estate, and landscape photography as well.

The lens will retail for $1,599 through authorized US retailers and will be available in late June 2023.

* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA)

#SIGMA #SIGMA14mmF14Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtPrime #SIGMADGDN

Exclusively designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras

A | Art SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN

New vision. Expanding possibilities.

  • Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
  • Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
  • Signature Art line features and high build quality

Supplied accessories: Case, COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01, REAR CAP LCR II, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41, GUIDE PLATE GP-11

Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount

* The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change.

* This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.

* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.

The world's first and only* lens that combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4.

All for the best starscape photography.

The stars in the sky are a source of inspiration for viewers. On the other hand, the starry sky is a very demanding subject for a wide-angle lens, with its numerous tiny point light sources spread over the entire image. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky possible. Thanks to SIGMA's latest technology, the lens combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. In addition, SIGMA's lens technology has achieved high optical performance with thorough correction of sagittal coma flare, specialized functions to support starry landscape photography, and high-speed AF with the HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) linear motor.

The Milky Way stretching across the night sky, twinkling stars emerging over ridgelines ? the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can make this a reality as an image that surpasses the actual photographic experience. Its proven ability in shooting starscapes will provide new possibilities for visual expression and enjoyment in all scenes, including daytime landscapes, architecture, and indoor photography in dark and confined spaces.

* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA).

[ Key Features ]

1. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance

This world-first performance was achieved by applying the best of SIGMA's optical technologies, from the design to the lens manufacturing process. 19 elements in 15 groups, including 1 SLD glass element, 3 FLD glass elements, and 4 aspherical lens elements, make up a luxurious lens configuration. This allows for advanced aberration correction and a high degree of precision in the lens construction. This allows both advanced aberration correction and F1.4 brightness. In particular, sagittal coma flare, which distorts the shape of stars, has been carefully corrected, and even at the widest aperture, the lens delivers high image reproducibility right to the periphery of the image. Ghosting and flare are also thoroughly addressed through both optical design and coatings. This allows for clear, crisp shooting of starry sky and night scenes. Optimized for starscapes, which require extremely high performance, this lens delivers images that exceed expectations in any scene, including landscapes, architecture snapshots, portraits, and indoor photography.

2. Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography

The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is equipped with a wealth of features to support starscape photography. This fully backs up the fun of starscape photography.

  • Tripod Socket
    Includes a detachable tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss type. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can be mounted on a tripod in a more stable condition, as it is heavier on the front side. The shape is designed to prevent interference even when using the lens heater.
  • MFL (Manual Focus Lock) Switch
    A switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position. Prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring. This is useful for long time exposure photography, etc., where the focus is fixed.
  • Lens Heater Retainer
    Steps around the front and lens heater retainers prevent the lens heater* from protruding into the front of the lens and causing vignetting on the periphery of the screen.
    * A belt-shaped heater that is wrapped around the lens to prevent condensation from forming inside the lens when the temperature drops.
  • Rear Filter Holder
    A rear filter holder is provided as standard equipment at the lens mount for attaching a sheet-type rear filter. A lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the filter from falling out.
  • Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slots
    Includes a cover-type front cap with locking mechanism. It also has a newly developed filter slot that can hold two rear filters depending on the application. The cap is specially designed for the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art to protect the sheet filters from scratches and dirt while ensuring that they are not mistakenly taken out or forgotten.

3. Signature Art line features and high build quality

In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting starscapes, the lens is equipped with various functions to assist in shooting, including an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and stain-repellent coating, so you can shoot outdoors in harsh environments with peace of mind. The HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) enables high-speed, quiet, and highly accurate autofocusing.

In order to maintain performance while supporting a lens with a large aperture, the lens has a robust internal structure and uses lightweight materials such as polycarbonate TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a thermal shrinkage rate equivalent to that of aluminum, and magnesium in appropriate locations to reduce weight while ensuring robustness. The lens body is built with the high build quality of the Art line specifications, allowing the user to fully enjoy the unique performance of the lens in any environment, including shooting starscapes.

[ Additional Features ]

  • Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD,1 SLD, and 4 aspherical elements)
  • Inner focus system
  • Compatible with high-speed autofocus
  • HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)
  • Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction
    • Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections and auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model.
    • On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with 'ON' or 'OFF' in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to 'ON' (AUTO).
  • Supports DMF and AF+MF
  • Compatible with AF assist (Sony E-mount only)
  • Super Multi-Layer Coating
  • Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element)
  • Aperture ring
  • Aperture ring click switch
  • Aperture ring lock switch
  • AFL button
  • MFL switch
  • Rear Filter Holder (compatible with GUIDE PLATE GP-11)
  • Lens Heater Retainer
  • Focus Mode Switch
  • Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only)
  • Dust and Splash Resistant Structure
  • Tripod Socket TS-141 supplied
  • Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slot: Cover Lens Lap LC1014-01 (NEW)
  • Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
  • Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
  • Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system
  • 11-blade rounded diaphragm
  • High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
  • "Made in Japan" craftsmanship

[ Key Specifications ]

The figures below are for the L-Mount version:

Lens Construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD, 1 SLD, 4 aspherical) Angle of view: 114.2° Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum aperture: F16 Minimum focusing distance: 30cm / 11.9 in. Maximum magnification ratio: 1:11.9 Filter size: Rear filter only Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 101.4 x 149.9mm / 4.0 x 5.9 in. Weight: 1170g / 41.3 oz.

[ Accessories: Supplied ]

COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01: 0085126 940980 REAR CAP LCR II (L-Mount): 0085126 937256 REAR CAP LCR II (Sony E-mount): 0085126 929879 TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141: 0085126 940997 PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41: 0085126 941000

[ Accessories: Optional ]

SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 for L-Mount: 0085126 878696

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Sigma News
Post Date: 6/8/2023 8:26:54 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Tuesday, June 6, 2023
 Friday, June 2, 2023

Bighorn sheep are common in Badlands National Park, but I don't see rams this big so frequently.

The key to capturing this image was observing that the ram was eating the yellow flowers. While eating, the ram's head was primarily down, not my favorite position. Positioning to capture the ram leaving one harvested patch on its way to another yielded a selection of head-up poses.

Getting the 600mm and f/4 combination down low on the flat grasslands creates a strongly blurred background.

Heatwave distortion was a problem during this capture, but shooting many images at a fast frame rate provided an adequate number of sharp results.


A larger version of this image is available here.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
600mm  f/4.0  1/1000s
ISO 640
7901 x 5270px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 6/2/2023 9:41:54 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Thursday, June 1, 2023

From Sony Corporation of America:

Sony Electronics Announces New High-Performance M Series CFexpress Type A Memory Cards CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T

Compact, high-performance, high-capacity and toughness CFexpress Type A memory cards take the compact dimensions and advanced features of Sony's Alpha Series to the next level

SAN DIEGO, June 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Sony announced two new CEA-M Series CFexpress Type A memory cards, CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T, that conform to the CFexpress 2.0 and VPG200 and offer high 1920 GB and 960 GB capacities. In addition to a VPG200 rating that guarantees fast and stable video recording without dropped frames, they are resistant to bending and drop impact and feature a dust and moisture sealing that ensures maximum reliability in any environment. These compact, high-performance memory cards are ideal for professional users who need high capacities and stress-free, reliable operation.

Sony Electronics Announces New High-Performance M Series CFexpress Type A Memory Cards CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T

CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T reliably shoot longeri on location and have some of the highest available capacities in CFexpress Type A memory cards that comply to VPG standard anywhere in the worldii, so running out of media space is not a concern. The memory cards provide plenty of capacity for extended recording video or when shooting stillsiii. For video shooters, the VPG200 Video Performance Guarantee rating enables stable recording at 200 MB/s with no dropped frames for an extended period, even when recording XAVC S-I 4K footage and high bitrates.

Despite their large capacities, these CFexpress Type A memory cards are very compact, about half the size of Type B cards, and even shorter and narrower than SD cards. An original alloy with superior heat transmission characteristics is used to conduct heat out of the cards and maintain optimum performance. This results in long-term stability and reliable operation when internally recording the large volume of data required for 4K 120p video. What's more, the CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T offer the same outstanding toughness of dust and moisture resistance, plus resistance to water, bending and drop impact as Sony's acclaimed CEA-G series CFexpress Type A memory cards, so important data is protected.

Sony's free desktop applications support protecting important data in the CFexpress Type A cards: Media Scan Utility diagnoses the state of the flash memory in memory cards, and Memory Card File Rescue recover accidentally deleted image data on memory cardsiv v. RAW images and 4K movie data are supported.

The new CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T will be available in June 2023 at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers, for an estimated retail price of $1400 USD and $760 USD, respectively.

Orders

Support this site by ordering your Sony CFexpress Type A TOUGH Memory Card at B&H

i Depends on shooting settings

ii As of 1st June, 2023 product announcement.

iii The number of RAW still images recordable during high-speed bursts is lower, and buffer clearing times are longer than Sony's CFexpress Type A CEA-G series memory cards. Details at https://www.sony.net/dics/cfea_spec/

iv Separately sold MRW-G2 card reader is required for CFexpress Type A card diagnosis (diagnosis is not possible with readers from other manufacturers or a direct camera connection).

v File Rescue downloadable software available at official website. Does not support data recovery for Content Protected and Game Data files. Not all data may be recoverable.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sony Announcements
Post Date: 6/1/2023 12:53:55 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan
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