Canon and Sony News for Feb 2016 (Page 2)

From the Rob & Jonas' Filmmaking Tips YouTube Channel:

There are times when we wish we could make use of the stabilized video we get from shooting with our drones but conditions just make it too dangerous to fly. This video might help you in some of those situations, assuming you want to film close to the ground. So no matter if you are shooting indoors or in a dense forest, this handle can help you obtain smooth video. You just have to find someone with a 3D printer of course...

B+W has published an extensive handbook outlining its filter lineup which includes an explanation of each filter and a description of its intended use.

My favorite part of the handbook can be found on page 44 where B+W describes how one of its filters can literally double your money. :-) [Sean]

From Nikon:

New DL range raises the standard of compact camera photography with DSLR- inspired optical innovation of high-performance NIKKOR lenses and always-on smart device connectivity

February 23, 2016 - TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Nikon DL series, a new line-up of premium compact cameras incorporating high-performance NIKKOR lenses, SnapBridge connectivity and a suite of digital SLR camera functions to complement any advanced enthusiast or professional's kit.

Inspired by the Nikon professional photographer community, the "D" in the Nikon DL series, draws on Nikon's DSLR heritage, while "L" calls out the premium NIKKOR lens technology which serves as the focal point for the range. The series comprises three new models, the DL18-50 f/1.8-2.8, DL24-85 f/1.8-2.8, and the DL24-500 f/2.8-5.6, each equipped with different NIKKOR lens groups and crafted for different photography styles. The first is a 18-50 mm equivalent ultra-wide-angle zoom lens that boasts the fastest and brightest maximum aperture in NIKKOR history, the second a fast, 24-85 mm equivalent normal zoom lens offering beautiful blur (bokeh), and super macro performance, while the last is an ultra high-power zoom lens that exhibits superior resolution over a broad range of focal lengths, up to an super-telephoto 500 mm equivalent.

Each model adopts a 1.0-inch type backside illumination CMOS sensor and the new EXPEED 6A image-processing engine for enabling the expression capabilities demanded by users of digital SLR cameras, while also providing sharp and clear rendering when shooting in dark surroundings.

For the accurate and precise acquisition of photography subjects, the Nikon DL series features a hybrid AF system combining both phase-detection AF and Contrast-detect AF. The focus points are densely packed to ensure wide AF area coverage for reliable performance in unpredictable shooting environments, keeping up with the DL range's high autofocusing speed of approximately 0.09 s. This works in tandem with an outstanding continuous shooting speed of 20 frames per second.

Completing the seamless transition when switching between shooting with a DSLR and their DL camera, photographers using the DL series will also find themselves returning to a system that is both familiar and intuitive, with the cameras' adoption of the Nikon DSLR user interface. The DL series also aid photographers looking beyond still image capture, with video recording in 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p quality, alongside a suite of creative movie-making options.

The cameras also support Nikon's newest connectivity platform, SnapBridge, for the seamless and immediate transfer of images to paired smart devices.

DL18-50 f/1.8-2.8 primary features

• A fast, ultra wide-angle zoom NIKKOR lens with maximum apertures of f/1.8-2.8 and support for the 18-50 mm*1 equivalent range of focal lengths
  The lens built into the DL18-50 f/1.8-2.8 offers the fastest maximum aperture in NIKKOR history for the 18-50 mm equivalent focal lengths, f/1.8, allowing users to enjoy dynamic perspectives, high contrast, beautiful background blur, and fast shutter speeds in even darker situations. Adoption of the same superior optical technologies used with interchangeable lenses for digital SLR cameras, including a large-diameter, molded-glass aspherical lens element with a large thickness deviation ratio, an aspherical ED glass element, a high refractive index (HRI) lens element, and Nano Crystal Coat, enables effective compensation for all types of aberration and sharp, clear rendering.
• Perspective control that corrects distortion of architecture and other wide subjects
  This handy function compensates for the unnatural tapering effect in images that is caused by differences in distance between the camera and various parts of the subject. It can be corrected with shooting by controlling the subject's horizontal and vertical orientation in 20 steps while confirming the effects in the monitor.
• Other features
• Fluorine coat adopted to keep lenses cleaner for easier maintenance
• A step-zoom ring allows users to instantly change the focal length by setting it to one of six predetermined positions
• An approximately 1037k-dot 7.5-cm/3-in. OLED touch-screen monitor with tilting mechanism
• DF-E1 Electronic Viewfinder (optional)- compact, high-resolution, OLED electronic viewfinder equipped with a tilting mechanism.

DL24-85 f/1.8-2.8 primary features

• A fast, normal zoom NIKKOR lens with maximum apertures of f/1.8-2.8 and support for the 24-85 mm equivalent range of focal lengths
  Adoption of a large-diameter, molded-glass aspherical lens element with a large thickness deviation ratio, and an HRI lens element enables superior rendering with effective suppression of all types of aberration. The lens achieves beautiful blur characteristics, especially with close-up shooting, for exceptional macro and portrait images.
• Super Macro function that enables capture of the subject at approximately 0.37x (life-size reproduction with conversion to 35mm [135] format)
  Be it insects or fine textures, the DL24-85 f/1.8-2.8 captures stunning shots for photographers looking for fresh perspectives. Photographers have the option to shoot with the super macro function, enabling "life-size" close-up shooting at a 35mm-format equivalent for those needing a closer look at their pint-sized subjects. The focus bracketing function automatically shifts the focus position slightly during continuous shooting, which comes in handy during super macro shooting where accurate focus can be difficult to achieve due to the very shallow depth of field.
• Other features
• Fluorine coat adopted to keep lenses cleaner for easier maintenance
• A step-zoom ring allows users to instantly change the focal length by setting it to one of six predetermined positions
• An approximately 1037k-dot 7.5-cm/3-in. OLED touch-screen monitor with tilting mechanism
• Built-in flash
• DF-E1 Electronic Viewfinder (optional)- compact, high-resolution, OLED electronic viewfinder equipped with a tilting mechanism.

DL24-500 f/2.8-5.6 primary features

• An ultra high-power zoom NIKKOR lens with maximum apertures of f/2.8-5.6 and support for the 24-500 mm equivalent range of focal lengths
  To suppress color fringing and distortion, while compensating for all types of aberration throughout the optical zoom range, the lens architecture incorporates both aspherical ED glass elements and ED glass elements, providing sharp and clear rendering throughout the optical range. The broad range of focal lengths supported by this one camera enables capture of sporting scenes, wildlife, and aircraft with 500 mm super-telephoto shooting, as well as broad landscapes with 24 mm wide-angle shooting.
• Dual Detect Optical VR provides compensation for camera shake
  In addition to providing superior compensation for camera shake, the lens is also equipped with SPORT VR mode built into super-telephoto interchangeable lenses for digital SLR cameras, enabling the more precise capture of subjects moving at high speeds with the appropriate level of camera-shake compensation and a more stable viewfinder image.
• Other features
• Fluorine coat adopted to keep lenses cleaner for easier maintenance
• OLED electronic viewfinder with eye sensor
• An approximately 1037k-dot 7.5-cm/3-in. OLED touch-screen monitor with vari-angle mechanism
• Built-in flash

B&H has the Nikon DL cameras available for preorder.

From Adobe:

Lightroom 2.0 for Android adds in a number of new, important features, including:

• An in-app camera, supporting the capture of images in DNG raw format
• Shoot-through presets, also available within the in-app camera, enabling previewing and capturing images with a series of built-in presets providing non-destructive editing
• Dehaze tool to adjust haze and fog in an image
• Split Toning enhancement, enabling the addition of a color cast to the highlights and shadows of an image, creating a uniquely stylized color image or replicating the look and feel of a traditional toned black and white image
• Target Adjustment Tool functionality in the Color/B&W editing tool, providing direct, on-image editing controls
• Point mode in Curve tool providing complete control over the tonality and contrast of an image
• Enhanced sharing with one-tap access to Adobe Premiere Clip for crafting video stories.

Lightroom 2.0 for Android is available on Google Play.

The Creative Cloud Photography Plan (Photoshop CC & Lightroom CC) is an excellent value at only $9.99/month.

From Sigma USA:

KANAGAWA, JAPAN – February 23, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the addition of a high-performance APS-C format lens for DSLR cameras to the Sigma Global Vision product line: Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens.

Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art
Building on the groundbreaking Sigma Global Vision 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, the new Sigma 50-100 F1.8 (75-150mm on 35mm format) mid-range zoom lens embodies the same engineering prowess to deliver outstanding prime lens-like results. Factoring in the APS-C image circle of 1.5x, the 50-100mm F1.8 covers three popular short tele prime focal lengths: 85mm, 105mm and 135mm. Like the 18-35mm F1.8, the new 50-100mm F1.8 maintains a constant F1.8 aperture yielding exceptional brightness and resolution throughout the zoom, while simultaneously maintaining focus as the lens is zoomed, a feature videographers will greatly appreciate.

Sigma Art Line Image Technology Innovation

• Features three FLD (F Low Dispersion) glass elements, one SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element, and one high-refractive index, high-dispersion glass element to minimize aberrations.
• Redesigned and enhanced, the new Hyper Sonic Motor is 30% slimmer and provides fast and accurate AF.
• Highly durable polycarbonate diaphragm made with fluorine; blades feature carbon feather film offering exceptionally smooth operation even during continuous shooting.

Outstanding Zoom Lens Maneuverability

• Inner focusing and zoom design offer versatile shooting options
• Tripod socket for stable, comfortable operation
• Features 21 elements / 15 groups, Minimum Aperture: F16, 82mm filter thread, Minimum Focus Distance: 37.4in, Dimensions: 3.7x6.7, Weight: 52.6oz

The new Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 Art will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts.

B&H has the Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens available for preorder.

Standard test results, including specs and measurements, have been added to the Nikon 300mm f/4E AF-S PF VR Lens page.

The Nikon 300mm f/4E AF-S PF VR's optical design featuring a Phase Fresnel element allows it to weigh significantly less than similarly spec'd lenses. The result is a more travel-friendly (i.g., backpacking) telephoto option.

B&H has the Nikon 300mm f/4E AF-S PF VR Lens in stock.

From Canon USA:

MELVILLE, N.Y. – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce that Canon Inc., its parent company, has been named to the 2016 FORTUNE magazine World’s Most Admired Companies list as a member of the computers industry. Canon received high marks in innovation, social responsibility, global competitiveness and quality of products and services.

“The prestigious honor of being named as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE magazine is a true testament to our company’s forward-thinking vision, as well as to the tremendous work that all of our employees continue to do on a daily basis worldwide,” said Kotaro Fukushima, senior director and general manager, Corporate Communications, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Canon is proud to continue to invest in both our customers and technology while still staying true to our philosophy of being a good corporate citizen in the communities that we serve.”

Executive, directors and analysts from approximately 652 companies in 30 countries around the world were asked to rate these companies based off of nine criteria categories: financial soundness, long-term investment value, people management, social responsibility, use of corporate assets, quality of management, quality of products/services, innovation and global competitiveness. In order to be listed, a company must have scored within the top half of its respective industry.

The complete FORTUNE magazine World’s Most Admired Companies list can be found at www.fortune.com/wmac.

From SanDisk:

MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS, BARCELONA, Feb. 22, 2016 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), a global leader in flash storage solutions, today introduced the world’s fastest microSD card. The SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II card enables action camera, drone and smartphone users to offload huge video files at unprecedented speeds.

“Action cameras are now the fastest-growing segment in digital imaging and drones are becoming increasingly popular, creating an opportunity for people to capture more high-capacity, high-quality 4K Ultra HD content,” said Dinesh Bahal, vice president, product marketing, SanDisk. “We designed this card specifically to address consumers’ needs for a faster solution when transferring massive files – and now, with nearly 3x the speed of our fastest microSD UHS-I card, this new offering dramatically reduces time spent transferring content.”

The new card, available in 64GB and 128GB capacities, delivers transfer speeds of up to 275MB/s to offload high-quality content at record speeds. Featuring Class 10 and UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), the SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II card is perfect for capturing Full HD and 4K Ultra HD video on the latest action cams, drones and smartphones. It also includes a USB 3.0 card reader to conveniently offload files to a PC.

“Today’s mobile devices are more sophisticated than ever, and require more advanced technology to deliver the best possible user experience," said IDC Research Director for mobile and tablets Les Santiago. "As the demand for higher quality content such as Full HD and 4K video increases, the need for higher capacity, faster storage solutions grows exponentially. The Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II card is at the forefront of delivering solutions that meet these evolving needs.”

Built for a New Generation of Devices

The latest action cameras, drones and smartphones are versatile, powerful devices that have expanded the possibilities for high-quality video.

“We empower our creators to capture amazing images around the world, ones that were previously out of reach. High-end professional imagery is captured every day with our products, and SanDisk’s new UHS-II card is a great complement to our portfolio,” said Basile David, Senior Content Manager, DJI. “These new cards deliver remarkable speeds, giving our creators more time to spend bringing their ideas to life.”

SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II cards are backwards-compatible with UHS-I host devices, performing up to UHS-I speeds allowed by the host device. Also designed for today’s durable devices, the cards can keep up in extreme environments. SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II microSD cards are shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and X-ray-proof.

Pricing and Availability

The 64GB and 128GB SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II cards feature a lifetime limited warranty, and will be available worldwide in Q2 at U.S. MSRPs of $179.99 and $299.99, respectively.

From Tamron:

SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (Model F017)

February 22, 2016, Commack, New York - Tamron, a leading manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, announces the launch of the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 MACRO (Model F017). The new 90mm macro has been enhanced with advanced features and builds upon a legacy of superior optical performance. XY-Shift compensation has been newly added to reinforce VC functionality, further improving image stabilization from infinity to macro. Advancements in USD control software have also increased AF focusing speed, and optimally fine-tuned for various framing conditions. In addition, a high standard of Moisture-Proof and Dust-Resistant Construction has been added to prevent intrusion of dust or moisture, and a highly durable Fluorine Coating has been applied to the top element surface to prevent condensation and repel smudge-causing substances. The lens will be on sale in the U.S. starting on February 25, 2016 in Canon and Nikon mounts (the Sony mount to be launched at a later date) at an approximate price of $649.

Product Highlights

Built upon the outstanding optical performance of the legendary Tamron 90mm Macro
Inheriting the optical design of the previous 90mm Macro lens (Model F004), the new Model F017 delivers the same excellent resolving power and remarkably soft background blur effects (bokeh). The advanced construction includes one LD (Low Dispersion) specialized glass element that maximally limits the dispersion properties of light and two XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) glass elements that correct dispersion properties to an even greater extent. The special elements optimally compensate for on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations from macro shooting range to infinity. Furthermore, the design ensures the best imaging performance at any range by adopting the Floating System that shifts the location of a group of elements to the best possible position as the focusing group travels relative to shooting distances. From 1:1, life-size close-ups to the most distant horizon, this new 90mm Macro lens achieves outstanding image quality.

Optimized for spectacular background blur effects (bokeh)
Earlier models of Tamron's 90mm macro lens received high acclaim for their spectacular blur effects, and the new 90mm macro builds upon this legacy. To continue this commitment, thorough optical simulations were conducted. Careful examinations were performed to minimize any blurring with a doubled image appearing for a single line because that phenomenon has a considerably negative impact on background image quality. As a result, the lens achieves both sharp, vivid images and spectacular background blur effects. This combination is highly prized by portrait photographers.

VC enhanced with shift compensation
An accelerometer has been integrated into Tamron's highly accredited VC (Vibration Compensation) to compensate for shakes on the x-y plane. In unison with a gyro sensor, the accelerometer detects and enables motion compensation for camera shake, providing maximum efficiency in image stabilization optimized for all distance ranges from infinity to macro.

USD actuator maximized for macro photography is fast, accurate and quiet
The control software program for the USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) actuator has been revised to provide substantially improved focusing speed and accuracy when using AF. The USD quickly addresses any out-of-focus condition caused by back-and-forth camera movement (which commonly occurs during macro photography) ensuring better results when shooting at close range.

Moisture-Proof and Dust-Resistant Construction
Special seals protect areas of possible ingress surrounding switches, and the boundary between the focus ring and the lens barrel. These provide stronger protection against the intrusion of dirt, dust and moisture compared to the Moisture-Resistant Construction used previously. This additional protection assures even more wide-ranging opportunities for using this lens.

A durable Fluorine Coating on the front element repels water and fingerprints
The water and oil repellant coating applied to the front element surface allows instant removal of dirt or smudges with ease. The coating also provides a reasonable level of durability, and will sustain its effectiveness for years. The Fluorine Coating technology that Tamron developed for use in industrial optics applications was first used on the SP 15-30mm that was introduced in 2014.

Advanced coating technology reduces flare and ghosting
Two advanced coating technologies, both providing outstanding anti-reflection performance, are applied to critical element surfaces for maximum light transmission. eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating boasts outstanding anti-reflection performance across nearly the entire range of visible rays, and BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating utilizes traditional multi-layered, anti-reflection technology. This combination virtually eliminates extraneous reflections and substantially reduces ghosting and flare which enables the lens to achieve flawless, crystal clear images.

Use of circular aperture to achieve beautiful, rounded blur effects (bokeh)
When shooting a scene that includes a point-source of light in the subject background, marvelously tuned blur (bokeh)can be obtained without generating undesirable polygonal shapes of aperture patterns thanks to the circular aperture. The 9-blade diaphragm retains a nearly perfect circular opening even when stopped down by two stops.

Focusing options perfectly suited to a macro lens
The new 90mm macro has a focus limiter that makes it possible to shorten the time for accurately focusing on a subject when the working range is known. The lens also features an Internal Focusing system, so the overall length of the lens never changes, not even when focusing. As a result, the user is assured of a comfortable working distance of at least 139 mm (5.5 in.) from the front of the lens. In addition, the lens is equipped with a Full-time Manual Focus override mechanism that makes it possible to flexibly choose focal points. Even with the AF driving system in action, it is possible to instantaneously override it to make manual fine focusing adjustments without switching the AF-MF mode back and forth.

Compatibility with TAMRON TAP-in Console
Always as new as tomorrow: You can update firmware, customize autofocus positions and adjust the mechanical setup and preferences of the 90mm lens by simply attaching it to the TAMRON TAP-in Console and connecting it via USB to a personal computer. (The TAP-in Console is an optional accessory that will be released in March.)

Digital image editing software optimized for Tamron lenses
Included in the new 90mm macro package is SILKYPIX Developer Studio, a popular RAW conversion and editing program preloaded with correction menus for various aberrations based on the optical data that pertains exclusively to Tamron's SP Series lenses. In addition, lens profile information has been supplied to Adobe Systems, Inc. to facilitate selecting the precise lens data required for more sophisticated adjustments in RAW processing when using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.

February 22, 2016, Commack, New York - Tamron, a leading manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, announces the launch of the SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F016), the world's first fast-aperture lens with VC (Vibration Compensation). Tamron's acclaimed VC makes it possible to take handheld photographs in dim light or at night. The 85mm SP lens uses LD (Low Dispersion) and XLD (Extra Low Dispersion) glass elements in the optical design to minimize color fringing and to achieve sharp and clear image quality with high-fidelity color. It also achieves attractive bokeh that draws attention to the image foreground subject. In addition, Moisture-Resistant Construction has been added to prevent intrusion of moisture, and a highly durable Fluorine Coating has been applied to the top element surface to prevent condensation and repel smudge-causing substances. This new lens joins the 35mm F/1.8, 45mm F/1.8 and 90mm Macro in a lineup of SP series prime lenses that has been expanding since 2015. The lens will be on sale in the U.S. starting in April 2016 in Canon and Nikon mounts (the Sony mount to be launched at a later date). Pricing and delivery will be announced shortly.

Product Highlights

The world's first 85mm fast-aperture lens with image stabilization
Tamron's VC image stabilization system enables handheld use in dim light without flash. Camera movement-often too minute to be perceptible to the photographer-is the leading cause of unpleasant photographs. In addition, newer DSLR cameras with higher resolution and higher pixel densities are even more susceptible to subtle camera shake. The VC System, Tamron's time-proven Vibration Compensation, keeps the sharpness at hand, even in moody, dim light when shutter speeds tend to be longer.

Superior resolving power and attractive bokeh
Experienced optical design technique combined with LD and XLD lens elements have virtually eliminated on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations that might otherwise appear as color fringing. In addition, by thoroughly reducing comatic aberrations (distortion of off-axis point source) and astigmatism, subjects that appear as a distinct point source will be captured as a distinct point source even at the edges and corners of the frame. Furthermore, optical simulations were thoroughly conducted, and the 85mm achieves natural bokeh- that dreamy, semi-focus blur that separates the portrait subject from the background with a snap.

Fluorine Coating and Moisture-Resistant Construction
Fluorine Coating technology developed for use in industrial optics applications has been adapted to photographic lenses. The water and oil repellant coating applied on the front element surface allows safe and easy removal of fingerprints, dirt and smudges. The coating also provides an enhanced level of durability, and will sustain its effectiveness for years. In addition, seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to prevent infiltration of moisture and/or rain drops and provide Moisture-Resistant Construction. This feature provides an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions.

Sophisticated eBAND and BBAR coatings plus Advanced Anti-Reflection Technologies
Two highly developed lens coating technologies, eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) which uses nanotechnology, and BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection), combine to increase light transmission and to reduce flare and ghosting to imperceptible levels. Additional techniques are employed to prevent reflections inside the lens barrel so that the 85mm lens delivers high contrast, sharp and clear images worthy of a fixed focal lens. This lens clearly captures detailed tones even in the shadows.

Electromagnetic diaphragm system now used also for Nikon-mount lens
An electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in Nikon-mount lenses[3]. More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by a motor through electronic pulse signals.

USD actuator maximized for fast and accurate focusing
Fast, quiet AF is achieved by employing a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ring-type ultrasonic motor which enables remarkably precise focusing drive with high torque and responsiveness. Thanks to the absence of reduction gears in USD, there is no backlash and no unnecessary back-and-forth movement. The control software program for the USD actuator has been revised to provide substantially improved focusing speed and accuracy when using AF. In addition, Full-time Manual Focus override is available at any point during the autofocus operation for deliberately shifting focus without switching the AF-MF. Whether overriding the autofocus or focusing completely manually, the focusing ring turns smoothly and evenly.

Compatibility with TAMRON TAP-in Console
Always as new as tomorrow: You can update firmware, customize autofocus positions and adjust the mechanical setup and preferences of the 85mm lens by simply attaching it to the TAMRON TAP-in Console and connecting it via USB to a personal computer. (The TAP-in Console is an optional accessory that will be released in March.)

Compatibility with Adobe and Silkypix software
Supplied with SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0, advanced editing software that features correction menus for various aberrations (lateral color, distortion, relative illumination) based on the optical design data of this specific lens. In addition, lens profile information has been supplied to Adobe Systems, Inc. to facilitate selecting the precise lens data required for more sophisticated adjustments in RAW processing when using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Shooting RAW image files enables creation of more stringent and high fidelity image quality.

Design Concept
The superior technology inside the Tamron 85mm is matched by advanced external ergonomic features under a design philosophy called "Human Touch." Improvements include altering the geometric shape and resistance of the AF/MF and VC switches to deliver comfort with secured operational feedback, and enlarging the distance scale window to maximize visibility and legibility. Even the font style has been newly developed to enhance legibility as part of the overall product design.

Preorders:

Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (Model F017): B&H
Tamron SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F016)*: B&H

* Preorders will be available once MSRP pricing has been estabilished.

From Tamron:

February 22, 2016, Commack, New York- announces the launch of the Tamron TAP-in Console (Model TAP-01), a new lens accessory that enables firmware updating and customized setups for selected Tamron lenses. The TAP-in Console is expected to be available in March. The price will be announced shortly.

Product Highlights

For the first time, customers can update firmware in selected Tamron lenses and customize various lens functions to meet their needs simply by attaching a Tamron TAP-in Console and running the Tamron TAP-in Utility software on their PC or Mac. Previously, firmware updates could be performed only at a Tamron Customer Service Center. Using the new accessory and an internet connection, customers can access a dedicated website and update firmware themselves anytime, anywhere. In addition, selected lenses can be customized by changing various settings to match the customer's preferences based on how they like to use the lens, making it even more versatile and user-friendly.

For full details on the Tamron TAP-in Console, check out the complete press release here.

B&H will have the Tamron TAP-in Console available for preorder once the MSRP has been established.

From the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom YouTube channel:

Lightroom tips and tricks in 60 seconds or less from longtime Lightroom team member Benjamin Warde.

The Creative Cloud Photography Plan (Photoshop CC & Lightroom CC) is an excellent value at only $9.99/month.

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 18th February 2016 – Canon today announces that the EOS C300 Mark II digital cinema camera has been independently tested in accordance with European Broadcast Union (EBU) recommendations for both HD and UHD content acquisition¹. The report recognises image capture of up to 15 stops of dynamic range using Canon Log2 and qualifies the EOS C300 Mark II for R.118 Tier 1 in HD and Tier 2 in UHD².

The new gamma Canon Log2 has been designed specifically for the C300 MKII’s new 8.85MP Super 35mm CMOS sensor. Having access to this high dynamic range gives users the creative freedom to produce more compelling visuals. Combined with the EOS C300 Mark II’s built-in noise reduction functionality, filmmakers have the ability to shoot almost anywhere, capturing low-noise footage in many challenging shooting scenarios.

The EBU exists to serve 73 broadcasters across 56 countries in understanding which technology is best suited to certain tasks. The UK's Digital Production Partnership (DPP) broadcasters use these recommendations to ensure their content meets a minimum threshold. This is especially important when a compressed image needs to survive editing, grading, encoding and transmission before it reaches audiences in its final pictures.

“Testing our cameras using the European Broadcast Union’s methodology is a very important step for us,” said Austin Freshwater, Director, Professional Imaging at Canon UK. “With the EOS C300 Mark II, we aimed to design a camera that lets both filmmakers and broadcast producers realise their creative vision. It’s because of this commitment that the EOS C300 Mark II offers users the very best image quality and we’re incredibly pleased that these test results back that up.”

The EOS C300 Mark II follows Canon’s XC10 video camera that also qualifies for R.118 Tier 1 HD as tested in September last year. Alongside this, the EOS C300 Mark II joins several of Canon’s high-end professional broadcast cameras that meet the criteria defined by the EBU, including its predecessor the Canon EOS C300, the Canon XF305 and the Canon EOS-1D C.

To download the full report please visit: https://tech.ebu.ch/docs/tech/tech3335_s18.pdf

B&H and Wex Photographic carry the Canon EOS C300 Mark II.

From Sigma:

Thank you for your patronage to SIGMA products.

We would like to announce that we are planning to release a firmware update for the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports in Canon and Nikon mount, as well as the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary in Canon and Nikon mount on Friday, March 11th, 2016.

The latest firmware update improves the AF algorithm of 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM lenses and further enhances AF speed by optimizing HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) drive control.

It is expected to increase autofocus speed by approximately 20%, to a maximum of 50%, during normal shooting as well as when using “Speed Priority” set through SIGMA Optimization Pro.

The firmware update requires the installation of the latest version of SIGMA Optimization Pro on your personal computer and the SIGMA USB DOCK accessory (sold separately).

Further details on this firmware update will be announced at a later date.

We appreciate your continued support for our company and products.

B&H carries the Sigma 150-600mm lenses and the USB Dock.

The Canon Professional Network has posted several new articles highlighting some of the EOS 80D's new features.

• Canon EOS 80D: A step-up option, vs. entry-level DSLRs
• What's New: 45-point AF on the Canon EOS 80D
• What's New: EOS 80D - AF at f/8 max. apertures
• What's New: Nano USM - A New Ultrasonic Motor Technology

B&H has the Canon EOS 80D available for preorder.

by Sean Setters

Back when the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM was announced in September 2014, my immediate thought was – "Well, Canon obviously has a full-frame Dual Pixel sensor in the works. We'll probably see more full-frame compatible STM lenses (in addition to the 40mm STM, that is)."

Then early 2015 rolled around and I was a little baffled when the EOS 5Ds/5Ds R were announced without a Dual Pixel sensor. It would take more than a year for Canon to announce a full-frame camera featuring a Dual Pixel sensor – the [still unavailable] EOS 1D X Mark II.

"Finally," I thought, "we'll start seeing more STM lenses designed for full-frame sensors." As it turns out, I was wrong – what we'll be getting is even better.

Canon's new NANO USM combines the best of both worlds – the speed of Ring USM and the quietness/smoothness of STM. That's a win/win and it's hard to imagine Canon not implementing this technology in a slew of upcoming lenses.

So how much faster is NANO USM compared to a similar lens with STM? Check out the video below.

But just how quiet is the new technology? While STM lenses were designed to be quiet with smooth focus transitions, the level of quietness varied substantially across the STM lineup (Hey 40mm pancake, I'm looking at you!). However, turn up the volume and listen to how well the EF-S 18-135 IS's NANO USM performs during focus changes:

It seems to me that NANO USM (or another variant of it) will begin taking the place of standard Ring USM in the not-so-distant future. And this would be an important move if, for instance, the next iteration of the 5D-series featured a Dual Pixel sensor (a high probability, in my opinion). In a way, the introduction of NANO USM is laying the ground work for a much-more-widely-used-than-the-1D-X-II full-frame camera featuring a Dual Pixel sensor.

Assuming a 5D-iteration with a Dual Pixel sensor is on the horizon, which lenses might ultimately be introduced with a NANO USM upgrade? How about a EF 24-105mm f/4L NANO USM to serve as a kit lens for starters? Or possibly the EF 50mm f/1.4 and EF 85mm f/1.8?

Of course this is all simply conjecture, but it's fun to imagine where this technological pathway is headed.

Want to know more about Canon's NANO USM technology? Check out this special feature on the Canon Professional Network.