I just returned from over two weeks of chasing the elk rut (and landscapes and nightscapes), including nearly two weeks of leading small photography groups in Rocky Mountain National Park.
With the incredible performance of the cameras now available, selecting a small number of images to share is daunting, to say the least. The image shared here was low-hanging fruit. Why do I like it?
The subject is a good starting point. Elk make great photo subjects, and this bull is an especially great specimen, having a big body and a large set of antlers, with all points visible. Also, all four legs are partially visible (no overlap).
Bugling is one of the primary elk rut activities, and this bull, angled slightly toward the camera, has his nose up and curled back. The high head position better facilitates a catchlight.
The cloudy sky provided even lighting void of harsh shadows.
The 600mm f/4 compression and shallow depth of field combined with a low shooting position render the foreground and background strongly blurred, making the subject stand out. At the same time, the juxtaposition of the blurred items is complementary to the bull.
While working on a monopod is significantly more demanding than working on a tripod, the monopod permits fast position adjustment that makes captures such as this one possible.
When photographing wildlife in dim light levels, it is advantageous to use a relatively slow shutter speed to enable optimally bright images with a lower ISO setting for less noise. However, motion-blurred subjects are not usually acceptable.
Elk seldom move fast when bugling, and the bugle usually lasts long enough for a quick adjustment before shooting. However, once the bugle is completed, the bull may suddenly chase after another animal. This fast action requires a significantly faster shutter speed.
I use manual exposure mode with the ISO set to Auto to enable quick shutter speed adjustment. A quick roll of the top dial takes the camera from still motion to fast action shutter speeds in a fraction of a second, with the ISO automatically adjusting as needed.
To accommodate auto exposures being affected by bright grass or a dark forest (both seen in this image), I adjust exposure compensation. That adjustment is simply the turn of a dial on the Sony Alpha 1.
A larger version of this image is available here.
From Western Digital
Western Digital Turbocharges Versatility with New SanDisk Professional PRO-G40 SSD
San Jose, Calif. - October 05, 2022
Western Digital Corp. (NASDAQ: WDC) today announced it has expanded its SanDisk® Professional line of premium storage solutions with the new PRO-G40™ SSD that supports dual-mode compatibility with both Thunderbolt™ 3 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces. Inspired by the way people create and share data today, this new drive is the company’s most rugged offering to date with a high-level IP68 rating, allowing professionals to immerse themselves in the action wherever their work or vision takes them.
“The nature of my work is unpredictable and as a result I must be incredibly flexible and versatile. I share the same expectations for every piece of equipment that I use from capture to archive which is why the SanDisk Professional PRO-G40 drive will immediately be a crucial part of my workflow,” said Andy Handcock, action, portrait and reportage photographer, and PRO-TEAM ambassador. “I need storage solutions that are lightweight, compact, rugged, and insanely fast. This checks all the boxes for me. The PRO-G40 SSD can easily withstand the rigors of travel and location work while doing so with a minimal footprint. Thanks to SanDisk Professional products like these, workflow is one less thing I need to stress about which frees me to focus more on the creative. That is paramount.”
Whether for a business professional or creative pro, the PRO-G40 SSD is a simple, flexible solution that offers great efficiency to get the job done. Professionals who are ingesting, editing, rendering, and transferring large amounts of mission-critical content need portable storage that is powerful enough to eliminate unnecessary downtime, and durable enough to handle heavy usage. The versatility of both Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface compatibility when collaborating eliminates the need to have two different drives, one for each interface. The PRO-G40 SSD offers extreme speed and durability for real-time editing 4K/8K straight off the drive, smooth AR/VR rendering, or transferring daily workloads in quickly.
“The new PRO-G40 SSD eliminates the problem we have all experienced before: grabbing the wrong USB-C™ cable or computer for our Thunderbolt 3 or USB devices,” said Hector Sandoval, vice president of product marketing, pricing and programs at Western Digital. “By supporting both interfaces and including a cable that does as well, this drive enables creatives to efficiently collaborate across devices without having to worry about carrying the right gear nor diminishing sustained performance as they continue producing impactful content that powers our world.”
Key Features
Availability
The PRO-G40 SSD is available now for MSRP $299.99 (1TB*) and $449.99 (2TB*) in the United States with a five-year limited warranty.
Orders
Order the SanDisk Professional PRO-G40 SSD from B&H.
* 1TB = 1 trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment.
** 1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
*** On a carpeted concrete floor.
From Canon Inc.:
Canon Utsunomiya Office to install new manufacturing facilities, strengthen manufacturing capacity for semiconductor lithography systems
TOKYO, October 6, 2022—Canon Inc. announced today that the company will install new manufacturing facilities at its Utsunomiya Office, which produces semiconductor lithography systems and other devices. The new facilities are scheduled to commence operation in the first half of 2025.
The Canon Group, under Phase VI of its "Excellent Global Corporation Plan" series of 5-year management plans, aims to "accelerate our corporate portfolio transformation by improving productivity and creating new businesses." As part of these efforts, Canon is working to expand its semiconductor lithography system business, one of the company's primary strategic businesses.
The semiconductor market is expected to see continued growth amid the transition towards a "smart society" led by such advancements as the IoT and 5G. Canon is working to strengthen its position in the fields of products, business and support while aiming to increase its market share of semiconductor lithography systems. Going forward, Canon is responding to forecasted growth in demand in the mid- and long-term by strengthening its manufacturing capabilities through the installation of new facilities at the company's Utsunomiya Office.
Outline of new facilities
Name: Canon Inc. Utsunomiya Optical Products Plant New Factory (provisional name)
Address: 22-2 Kiyohara-Kogyodanchi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi
Area: Approximately 70,000 m2
Capital investment: Approximately ¥38 billion (construction cost)
Construction start: 2nd half 2023
Commencement of operation: 1st half 2025
Scope of business: R&D, manufacture and services related to semiconductor lithography systems
Image quality test results are now available on the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens page.
This lens exceeds my image quality expectations.
While the RF 1200 is not as sharp as the Canon RF 600mm F4 L Lens, it is nicely sharper than the Canon RF 600mm F4 L Lens plus 2x extender.
The RF 1200mm lens's image quality is about the same as that of the RF 800mm F5.6 Lens.
Note that RF 1200mm lens plus extender results are not included in the tool. I'm still arguing with myself but have not yet justified spending over $1,000.00 to fund the smaller test chart needed for testing focal lengths over 1200mm.
Order the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Rent the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.
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From Benro:
Introducing Polaris
The world’s first electric tripod head with camera interface controller, remote DSLR preview & configuration through WiFi/cellular.
Remote Shooting - From Anywhere, Easily Capture the Best Moments, Smooth & Precise
As the world’s first electric tripod head with camera interface controller, Polaris enables remote precision - whether you’re adjusting the composition of a photo - or programming the geared head and camera to capture a series of photographs to create a high resolution motion timelapse. The head also supports WiFi or Cellular connection - you can preview, review, and download files quickly and from anywhere.
The intuitive app based pre-programming and electromotion system allows you to customize your own shooting schedule or routine. Simply frame the shot by adjusting your pitch and pan angles - then check and input your parameters like ISO, apeture, shutter and more.
After that - let Polaris take care of your pro-level shooting without the need to even snap the shutter. Moreover, Polaris is so smart that it analyzes your shots and automatically dials in exposure values and sharpens details in your creations, saves you from the time consuming hassle of image retouching like focus stacking and time-lapse, etc.
More than just a remote head, Polaris contains high-precision brushless motors that allow you to have control over micro adjustments to framing both vertically and horizontally.
Even a novice can tune in the perfect composition by adjusting the head through the app or manually using the physical knobs. Make the fine details in your photos even finer and capture enrapturing videos without missing a degree of what you were trying to capture.
Also, the built in GPS & compass can easily determine celestial paths and adjust the camera angles for you to capture your perfect starry sky shot or hone in on a breathtaking timelapse of a stunning landscape during sunrise or sunset.
Remote-Shooting-From-Anywhere, Strong, From Inside Out
Engineered to withstand the harsh elements outdoor shooting presents, Polaris is made with aluminum alloy that endures severe working environments. Having a bad weather day? With an IPX6 waterproof level, Polaris resists water and dust even when it comes as a splash, light rain, or a heavy storm - your inspiration is no longer limited. Polaris’s weather resistance makes every event you want to capture possible.
Moreover, driven by a high-efficiency power supply system with low consumption, Polaris ensures you an outdoor shooting experience that is both concise and reliable; The unique power-saving design further prolongs Polaris’s battery life for ultra-long outdoor shooting.
Polaris not only allows you to adjust the composition of a photo, but it enables users to program the intelligent head to capture a series of photographs, easily track and take long exposures of stars, or create high resolution motion timelapses. Polaris also offers a wireless connection so you can do all of the above remotely as well as preview, review, and download files via a dedicated app from nearly anywhere.
The Astro version is capable of all intelligent modes, and the Timelapse version is capable of all modes apart from star tracking. An Astro module add-on is also available separately if wish to upgrade your Timelapse version to be Astro capable.
Suport this site buy ordering the Benro Polaris Smart Tripod Head from B&H.
Image quality test results are now available on the Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens page.
I like what I see except the wide open 400mm results are a bit soft (f/8 produces better sharpness).
Create a few comparisons.
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
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Canon EOS R5 C firmware update version 1.0.2.1 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.0.2.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R5 C at B&H.
Hot Deals: the Canon fall savings promotion is now live, with some outstanding deals included.
If an item on this list is on your want list, now is likely the right time to buy it.
Browse the entire list of Canon deals at B&H.
Thanks for supporting the site by using the provided links to make your purchase!
From Canon Marketing Japan Inc. (translated):
To customers using the continuous recording function for professional video cameras and digital cinema cameras
Thank you for using Canon products.
We have found that the following phenomenon rarely occurs in the professional video camera "XF605" under specific usage conditions. We have also confirmed the possibility of this phenomenon occurring in the EOS C70 and EOS R5 C digital cinema cameras equipped with the same functions. There have been no reports of this phenomenon occurring with the EOS C70 and EOS R5 C.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and concern caused to customers using this product. In the future, we will continue to implement thorough quality control so that our customers can use our products with peace of mind. Thank you for your understanding.
Phenomenon
Repeatedly starting and stopping normal recording while the constant recording function is set may occasionally cause the camera to become inoperable. In addition, it has been confirmed that phenomena such as "FAN error" display and media access lamp blinking may occur at the same time as the operation becomes impossible.
* This phenomenon does not occur if the constant recording function is not set.
The constant recording function is a function that can be set only when MP4 is selected as the main recording setting, and constantly records images on one SD card without interlocking the REC switch. Products
Professional video camera "XF605": Products whose serial number has a "2" or earlier in the seventh digit from the left
* The digital cinema cameras "EOS C70" and "EOS R5 C" that may cause this phenomenon are as follows.
"EOS C70": Products with firmware version 1.0.3.1 or earlier
"EOS R5 C": Products with firmware version 1.0.1.1 or earlier
About correspondence
We apologize for the inconvenience, but please download the latest XF605 firmware and update it.
In addition, we are preparing to release firmware that corrects the above phenomenon for the two models of digital cinema cameras.
From Topaz Labs:
Topaz Photo AI is here.
Maximize your image quality on autopilot. Edit sharper, cleaner, enhanced, and upscaled photos with our brand new flagship app.
We know you love Topaz apps! This is your chance to get the all-new Topaz Photo AI at a huge discount! Topaz Photo AI is on sale until October 7, 2022
Buy Topaz Photo AI once, own it for life with unlimited upgrades for 1 year.
Learn more at Topaz Labs.
"Capture One 22 (15.4.0) is a service pack containing several bug fixes, along with additional lens support."
Get the full details of this update in the release notes.
Order Capture One Pro at B&H.
Learn more about the GoPro HERO11 Action Camera at B&H.
Learn more about the DJI Osmo Action 3 at B&H.
From Canon USA:
Help Make Your Memories Last with the New Canon SELPHY Photo Printer
For crafting, decorating, and more – the new Canon SELPHY compact photo printer provides high quality prints quickly and easily
MELVILLE, NY, September 14, 2022 –Scrapbookers and parents rejoice as Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the SELPHY CP1500 compact photo printer as the newest addition to the SELPHY printer line. Delivering long lasting1, durable, high-quality prints in less than a minute2, gifting friends and family physical memories and keepsakes which can be shared and enjoyed for decades3 (when stored in an album) has never been easier.
Designed with Space in Mind
In a stylish and compact design, the Canon SELPHY CP1500 photo printer is small enough to fit in a pocket or small purse and can be taken on the go – whether using the included AC adapter or the optional battery (sold separately)4. Its diminutive size doesn’t make the CP1500 short on function, though. The printer’s standard print size is 4”x 6” postcard – printed in approximately 41 seconds2. With the purchase of the optional cassette (sold separately)5, it can also print card (2.1” x 3.4”) and square label (2.1” x 2.1”) sizes. Thanks to protective coating, the CP1500 creates long-lasting photos that can withstand wear for more than 100 years when stored in an album3. Those looking for a bit more fun can personalize photos with a variety of borders, text, and pattern overlays – such as hearts around your family or paw prints for your furry friends. The creative possibilities are endless – customers can use these photos for crafting, journaling, decorating, or for school projects such as family trees.
Photos In A Pinch
The SELPHY CP1500 compact photo printer comes with diverse connectivity, allowing users to connect wirelessly to a compatible smart phone using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app6. Additionally, users can utilize the SELPHY Photo Layout app7 to convert a URL into a QR code that can be printed onto a photo – directing to social media pages or to photo locations on a map.
Specific product specs of the SELPHY CP1500 compact photo printer include:
Pricing
The Canon SELPHY CP1500 compact photo printer is scheduled to be available in October 2022 for an estimated retail price of $139.998 and will be available in two colors, black and white.
Orders
Order the Canon Selphy CP1500 Compact Photo Printer from B&H.
###
Availability and specifications subject to change without notice.
1 Canon cannot guarantee the longevity of prints; results may vary depending on printed image, display/storage conditions, and environmental factors.
2 Postcard size (4” x 6”) prints in approximately 41 seconds. Print speed obtained using compatible digital camera incorporating DIGIC II (other camera models may vary).
3 Based on accelerated testing by Canon in dark storage under controlled temperature, humidity and gas conditions, simulating storage in an album with plastic sleeves. Canon cannot guarantee the longevity of prints; results may vary depending on printed image, display/storage conditions, and environmental factors.
4 Supplies may be limited. Battery has an anticipated suggested retail price of $89.99. Actual price is set by individual dealers and may vary. Price is subject to change without notice.
5 Supplies may be limited. Cassette has an anticipated suggested retail price of $12.99. . Actual price is set by individual dealers and may vary. Price is subject to change without notice
6 Requires an Internet connection and the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app, available for free on the App Store and at Google Play. Compatible with Apple devices running iOS 7.0 or later and Android mobile devices running Android 4.0 or later. Your device must be connected to the same working network with wireless 802.11 b/g capability as your printer. Requires a compatible social media account and is subject to that social media account's Terms of Service. Certain exceptions may apply.
7 Requires an Internet connection and the SELPHY Photo Layout app, available for free on the App Store and at Google Play. Compatible with Apple devices running iOS 7.0 or later and Android mobile devices running Android 4.0 or later. Your device must be connected to the same working network with wireless 802.11 b/g capability as your printer. Requires a compatible social media account and is subject to that social media account's Terms of Service. Certain exceptions may apply.
8 Price is subject to change without notice. Actual price is set by individual dealers and may vary.
App Store is a service mark and Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions. iOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries, and is used under license. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC. All other product and brand names are trademarks of their respective owners.
Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens firmware update version 1.1.1 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.1.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens at B&H.
Just Posted: Canon RF 24mm F1.8 Macro IS STM Lens Review.
Order the Canon RF 24mm F1.8 Macro IS STM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Rent the Canon RF 24mm F1.8 Macro IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.
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Just Posted: Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Review.
Order the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Rent the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.
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Just posted: Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens Review
Image quality test results from a second lens (Sample 2) are now available. The second lens performs similarly to the first.
Please share!
Order the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens from B&H | Adorama | WEX
Rent the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens from Lensrentals.
Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images are now available on the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens page.
This lens has strong barrel distortion at the wide end.
Order the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Rent the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.
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From Canon USA:
Canon Targets High-End Broadcasters With New PTZ Camera
Broadcast Quality Video Capture and Advanced Connectivity Options Help Enable Broadcasters to Achieve Efficient Production
MELVILLE, NY, September 7, 2022 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the launch of the CR-N700i – a 4K 60P 4:2:2 10-bit PTZ camera with a 1.0-inch Type CMOS Sensor and 12G-SDI connectivity, designed for professional broadcast, studios, and live event productions. Building on Canon’s broadcast heritage, the CR-N700 incorporates the intelligent AF from Canon’s popular professional video cameras, such as the EOS C70 and XF605, for precision focus across the entire pan, tilt and zoom range. With a host of powerful features, this launch expands Canon’s PTZ line-up, offering a PTZ camera for various types of productions and technical requirements. Additionally, Canon is announcing the availability of a firmware update for the Canon CR-N500 and CR-N300 PTZ cameras.
Achieve Broadcast Quality, Easily
To meet the current demands of broadcasters, the CR-N700 features a 1.0-inch Type CMOS sensor and DIGIC DV7 processor to deliver superb 4K UHD 60P 4:2:2 10-bit imagery for truly immersive content. Capable of high-quality transmission, Canon’s newest PTZ camera allows content creators to stream 4K 60P over IP with PoE++ support that allows for power, streaming, and camera control over a single cable – perfect for remote and live broadcast productions. The impeccable image quality is also the result of the high-performance lens, which has a 15x optical zoom and a 30x advanced zoom when shooting in Full HD. When coupled with Canon’s renowned Image Stabilizer, broadcasters can capture smooth, steady footage even from a distance. This can be ideal for shooting reality TV shows or even sports when camera operators want to discreetly zoom in on the action. The CR-N700 also features a Night Mode, allowing operators to capture footage in near darkness thanks to a removable built-in IR cut filter. Along with the HDR formats in PQ or HLG, broadcasters can capture virtually uncompromised footage in various lighting environments.
Breaking new ground for Canon’s line-up of PTZ cameras, the CR-N700 is equipped with fast, intelligent and extremely accurate focusing thanks to Canon’s proprietary Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology with advanced EOS iTR AF X. This deep learning autofocus locks onto a subject’s head, to track them as they move and even when they turn their face away. Eye Detection AF locks onto the subject’s pupil for even greater precision, while the Face Priority AF allows operators to prioritize a specific individual. This can be ideal for scenarios where it is imperative to stay locked onto the anchor throughout.
Superb Connectivity, Simple Workflows
As with Canon’s entire range of PTZ cameras, the CR-N700 supports multiple protocols to integrate with existing workflows seamlessly. Designed to fit into the diverse production ecosystems of broadcasters, the CR-N700 features SRT and NDI|HXii protocols for high-quality 4K video streams, while FreeD enables integration with virtual productions. Broadcasters can easily create multi-camera setups that meet their needs with these protocols, and with Canon’s XC protocol, it is possible to integrate the CR-N700 alongside other Canon Cinema EOS cameras such as the EOS C500 Mark II, EOS C300 Mark III, or professional camcorders including the XF605iii for a truly versatile setup. It’s even possible to match other Canon cameras’ look with Canon Log 3 and Wide Dynamic Range picture settings.
The flexible connectivity options include 12G-SDI and 3G-SDI, HDMI or IP, which allow the seamless transmission of 4K60P, for high-quality, consistent broadcasts. The CR-N700 also includes professional dual XLR audio inputs, Time code, and GEN-LOCK, for different production needs.
Enhanced control
Canon’s latest PTZ camera offers the same intuitive control as other models in the line. The advanced drive mechanism enables movements as slow and precise as 0.1° per second, meaning operators can capture cinematic shots. Compatible with both Canon’s RC-IP100 controller and Remote Camera Control Application, as well as selected third-party controllers, this further simplifies integration with existing production setups. With the CR-N700’s crop function, broadcasters can take two separate feeds from a single PTZ camera. They can select up to two regions of interest within the 4K frame and output them as a separate feeds in HD resolutions. This feature is perfect for productions with limited PTZ cameras on site.
Canon CR-N700 Key Features:
The new firmware update for the Canon CR-N500 and CR-N300 PTZ cameras adds SRT and FreeD protocols. SRT protocol is a widely used video transmission protocol for live broadcasts that provides both low latency and error correction for smooth video over public internet connections. FreeD protocol is also a widely used protocol for transmitting camera positioning information, allowing the camera to be used in virtual applications such as virtual studio systems. Both protocols are supported by the CR-N700, and are now available on the CR-N300 and CR-N500 with firmware version 1.2.0 that is currently available for download.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon CR-N700 PTZ is scheduled to be available in December 2022 for an estimated retail price of $9,699.00.iv
Orders
Order the just announced Canon gear at B&H.
i This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.
ii NDI is a trademark or registered trademark of NewTek, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
iii Firmware unlocking Canon’s XC Protocol on the XF605 requires firmware v1.0.1.1 or later.
iv Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
From Canon USA:
Canon Launches Five Versatile 4K Camcorders
Get your shot and tell your story, thanks to the XA65/XA60, XA75/XA70, and VIXIA HF G70 camcorders
MELVILLE, NY, September 7, 2022– Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions,announced the launch of four professional camcorders – the XA65, XA60, XA75, and XA70 – alongside the VIXIA HF G70 camcorder. The new camcorders are suited to a wide range of uses, including documentary, corporate events, and education. Capable of capturing amazing 4K quality content and HD UVC Streaming via USB-Ci, with advanced autofocus and face detection functionality, these models offer excellent performance. All of them enable MP4 and On-Screen Display (OSD) recording, while the four professional camcorders feature XF-AVC recording to support broadcast applications. Additionally, Canon has announced a firmware update for the XF605 camcorder.
High-Quality 4K Capture
With Canon’s line-up of compact camcorders, content creators can easily capture stunning 4K footage in multiple scenarios. Powered with the DIGIC DV6 image processor and leveraging the 1/2.3-inch type CMOS sensor and 1.0-inch type CMOS sensor, respectively, the XA65/XA60 and XA75/XA70 are capable of shooting 4K UHD and Full HD images using oversampling for superb HD quality, making them perfect for a wide range of shooting scenarios. When coupled with Canon’s intelligent optical design, these camcorders offer impressive zoom functionality in a lightweight body. Achieving a 35mm equivalent focal length, the XA65/XA60 offer a 20x optical zoom and the XA75/XA70 a 15x zoom. All professional models support 40x digital zoom, which extends to 800x in the XA65/XA60 and 600x in the XA75/XA70. These models are also designed to improve operability with a new, large 3.5 inch Touch Panel LCD Monitor and high-resolution Ocular EVF with impeccable video capabilities.
Precision Focus, Steady Footage
With Canon’s precision AF systems, the XA65/XA60 and XA75/XA70 help content creators lock onto their subjects and easily follow the action. Featuring Dual Pixel CMOS AF, the XA75/XA70 models are capable of fast and accurate focusing, which couples with the Dual Pixel focus guide to help make manually focusing on a subject easy. The XA65/XA60 line-up employs an advanced Hybrid AF system for precise focusing even in low light situations. All offer adjustable focusing speeds for either fast or smooth AF, which can also be controlled via the 3.5 inch LCD display, enabling operators to easily set the focus by touching a single AF point. For excellent accuracy and convenience, especially in busy environments where operators need to keep a subject in shot, Face Detection AF and Face Tracking are available. All feature manual focus, which can be set either by the focus/zoom ring, or the control ring on the lens of the XA75/XA70. Employing 5-axis image stabilization, these models capture steady, virtually shake-free footage.
Versatile Recording Formats
Featuring a range of flexible recording options, the XA65/XA60 and XA75/XA70 can seamlessly fit into multiple professional workflows. With a host of specialist recording options, including Slow and Fast Motion, on-screen display recording, which embeds the date and time into the video image, and an infrared mode to capture footage in the dark, these camcorders can be used for a wide range of use cases. They can also be easily integrated into a multi-camera setup thanks to the custom picture menu, allowing users to color match footage with other Canon cameras. For professional sound capture, the XA65/XA60 and XA75/XA70 have two XLR audio inputs and 4-channel linear PCM to set the recording level and input sensitivity.
New to the XA and VIXIA Series of camcorders, OSD recording embeds date, time, timecode and other data into your original camera files, effectively “time stamping” the information into each frame of video, a requirement for legal and law enforcement videographers.
Enhanced Connectivity Options
Canon’s new professional camcorders offer a range of connectivity options to enable simple and fast transmission of high-resolution video. The XA65/XA60 and XA75/XA70 can stream HD video in UVC via USB-Ci through a compatible PC – great for education or houses of worship which increasingly offer both in-person and virtual services. All models feature HDMI output and simultaneous backup and relay recording via dual SD cards, with the XA65 and XA75 offering an additional 3G-SDI output.
Unlock Your Inner Filmmaker
Designed for aspiring filmmakers and documentarians, the VIXIA HF G70 is a multi-functional camcorder delivering professional capabilities in an easy-to-use form factor so they can shoot like a pro. Utilizing a 1/2.3-inch type CMOS sensor and high-quality 20x Zoom lens, this camcorder captures 4K UHD video in MP4 and oversampled HD footage for impeccable video resolution. HDMI and USB-C output enable users to turn the VIXIA HF G70 into a web camera for high-quality video calls and sharing content online. Additional scene modes are also available, including night mode, on-screen display recording, and audio scene mode, which adds sound recording that is tuned to the shooting environment.
XF605 Firmware Update
Canon has also added a firmware update for the XF605 camcorder in response to feedback and requests from users. The firmware v1.0.1.1 offers greater efficiency for broadcasters, and more versatile shooting options for content creators using the XF605 – a professional broadcast camera designed for solo shooters.
To meet the growing demand for remote and live production, this latest firmware update adds Canon’s XC protocol, enabling the XF605 to work alongside other compatible Canon products within a multi-camera system. Combining the excellent performance of the camera with advanced network technologies, broadcasters can seamlessly integrate the XF605 into their setup and control the ISO, aperture, Custom Picture, and AF of all cameras from a single point. The v1.0.1.1 firmware also introduces a new 4K Intra 60P/50P recording option alongside XF-AVC Intra 410Mbps, creating a lightweight, high-quality codec that helps to minimize storage costs.
Powered by Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF, users can now enjoy the benefit of Face and Eye Detection AF and tracking in both fast and slow-motion shooting, perfect for capturing fast-paced action. For even more options, the firmware now also adds support for vertical shooting – a feature first seen in the EOS C70. This feature is great for digital signage, where content creators need to capture 4K content in a portrait format. For simple operation in vertical shooting mode, the monitor and on-screen menu change orientation.
A camcorder designed for single operators and streamlined crews, such as on-the-ground broadcasting, the v1.0.1.1 firmware gives operators the ability to monitor all four audio channels in the on-screen meter display. Users can now select assignable button 11 as the record button – ideal for those shooting on a tripod or in a vertical orientation. Also added is a feature that retains the selected shooting mode while switching from standard to Slow and Fast shooting.
Responding to feedback from customers and end users and the broader adoption of multi-camera setups for live and remote production, this firmware levels up the performance of the XF605 and enables it to be easily integrated into multi-camera setup.
The Canon XF605 firmware update v1.0.1.1 is currently available for download.
Canon XA75/XA70 Key Features:
Canon XA65/XA60 Key Features:
Canon VIXIA HF G70 Key Features:
Price & Availability
The Canon XA75 and XA70 professional camcorders are both scheduled to be available in November 2022 for an estimated retail price of $2,999.00 and $2,499.00 respectively. ii
The Canon XA65 and XA60 professional camcorders are both scheduled to be available in October 2022 for an estimated retail price of $2,299.00 and $1,799.00 respectively. ii
The Canon VIXIA HF G70 prosumer camcorder is scheduled to be available in October 2022 for an estimated retail price of $1,249.00.ii
Orders
Order the just announced Canon gear at B&H.
i Audio output not supported via USB-C.
ii Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary