Capturing a photo of a buck leaping a fence or log was on my photo bucket list, and the right circumstances enabled that line item to be checked off.
During the rut, a buck will stay with a doe that is ready to breed. Most of the time, the action is slow, but periodically, the doe will play a cat-and-mouse game, running away. When that happens, the buck gives chase, and that's what happened this morning in Shenandoah National Park.
The buck raced after the doe, and a log was in its way. I was on the other side of the log.
The Canon EOS R5 and RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens impressively nailed this shot, tracking the buck's eye as it fast approached.
I was slightly behind in my panning, but a small pano created from two consecutive shots opened up the left side of the image just enough to provide space in the subject's direction.
The shallow 400mm f/2.8 depth of field strongly blurred the distracting forest background, making the deer appear to be leaping out of the frame.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Canon EOS C500 Mark II firmware update version 1.1.1.1 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.1.1.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS C500 Mark II at B&H.
The Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens is again in stock at B&H.
Why this lens remains hard to get: Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens Review.
From Sony Japan (translated):
Information on digital single-lens camera a9 III paid customization service
Thank you for using Sony products.
We will begin offering a paid customization service to adjust the release stroke for the digital single-lens camera a9 III and a9 III compatible vertical grip VG-C5.
[Target product model name]
Digital single-lens camera a9 III “ILCE-9M3”
Vertical grip “VG-C5”
[Service start date]
Applications will start from Monday, April 15, 2024.
[Customization content]
Digital single-lens camera a9 III "ILCE-9M3"
Only full press (release) can be selected from 2 levels (default state, shallow).
Vertical position grip "VG-C5"
Only full press (release) can be selected from 2 levels (default state, shallow).
*For details on customization services, please refer to the support page.
[Customization fee]
Digital single-lens camera a9 III “ILCE-9M3”
14,000 yen (tax included)
Vertical grip “VG-C5”
14,000 yen (tax included)
Faster, yet affordable, cards from Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics Releases the 240GB and 480GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Cards Offering Large Capacity and High Speed
The newest addition to G Series CFexpress Type B Memory Cards Offer Stable and Reliable Operation for Extended Shooting Sessions
SAN DIEGO, March 20, 2024 – Sony Electronics announces the new 480GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card (CEB-G480T) and 240GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card (CEB-G240T), the newest addition to G Series CFexpress Type B Memory Card. Creators now have more reliable and stable operation options with the newest large capacity, high speed cards.
Fast and Reliable
The 480GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card (480 GB) with max. read speed of 1850 MB/s and max. write speed of 1750 MB/si. The 240GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card (240 GB) with max. read speed of 1850 MB/s and max. write speed of 1600 MB/si. The CEB-G series with TOUGH specifications offers great shooting experience. Thanks to its fast write speed, it goes great with high-resolution cameras. The CEB-G series is designed for professional photographers, videographers and enthusiasts looking to boost workflows with its fast speed and exceptional reliability.
Accelerate any workflow as both cards offer fast data transfer to a PC with CFexpress Type B card reader MRW-G1 (sold separately). Work seamlessly while handling large high-resolution photos and high-bitrate video, to turn projects around quickly.
Both cards include scan and rescue software applications capability that provide true peace of mind. When used with the MRW-G1 card reader (sold separately), Sony’s Media Scan Utility automatically scans the CFexpress Type B memory card, keeping the user informed of its condition and storage limit. Never lose a moment with the downloadable Memory Card File Rescue for Sony memory card customers that recovers accidentally deleted files in today’s most common formats. Media Scan Utility and Memory Card File Rescue are available for downloadii.
TOUGH and Durable
These series cards are even more resilient as they offer the same outstanding toughness with its 5x greater drop strengthiii and 3x greater bendabilityiii while also being able to flawlessly work in extreme temperatures, X-rays, electrostatic and intensive UV sunlightiv.
The VX9562 and VX9563 are 29.6 mm x 38.5 mm x 3.8 mm (1 3/16 inches x 1 9/16 inches x 5/32 inches) and weights approximately 10 g (0.4 oz.).
Price and Availability
The 480GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card and 240GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card will be available in May of 2024 at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers, for an estimated retail price of $319.99 USD and $439.99 CAN, and $199.99 USD and $274.99 CAN respectively.
Orders
For detailed product information, please visit:
Sony 480GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card: https://electronics.sony.com/imaging/imaging-accessories/media/p/cebg480t
Sony 240GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Card: https://electronics.sony.com/imaging/imaging-accessories/media/p/cebg240t
Also order Sony CFexpress Type B Tough Memory Cards at B&H.
Notes:
i Actual performance may vary and is dependent on environment and usage.
ii Available at www.sony.net/memorycard. Data recovery for Copy Protected and Game Data files not supported. Not all data may be recoverable.
iii Compared with the CFexpress Type B standard under Sony test conditions. This does not guarantee the CFexpress Type B memory card will be damage-free or that data will remain intact under all conditions. ?
iv This does not guarantee the CFexpress Type B memory card will be damage-free or that data will remain intact under all conditions.
When getting the most architecture in the frame is the goal, move the camera as far away as possible. When photographing a ceiling, the floor becomes a hard limiting factor in this regard, making the ultra-wide 10mm angle of view a differentiator from most other lens options.
For this image capture, the Canon EOS R5 and RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens were locked onto an RRS BH-40 Ball Head on an RRS TVC-24L Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod. Taking the most architecture in the frame theme to the limit, the TVC-24L's legs were angled fully open, bringing the camera within a few inches of the floor. The vertical side of the MC-LS Universal L-Plate was removed, permitting full rotation of the vari-angle LCD for straight-up composition.
For precise symmetry without converging lines, the lens must be centered in the scene and leveled, leveled in a straight-up angle in this case. Floor tiles and the lines between them are frequently helpful references for finding the absolute center of a building. After positioning the lens over the center of the center tile, adjusting the camera to perfectly straight up was the next challenge, one that required finessing, trial, and error.
With the camera a few inches above the floor, staying out of the 10mm angle of view meant me going nearly flat on the floor while the HDR brackets were captured. Never before have I seen this much of the St Patrick Cathedral ceiling in the frame.
Now is a good time to add 10mm to your kit!
A larger version of this image is available here. See more RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens images.
Just posted: Sigma 15mm F1.4 DG DN Diagonal Fisheye Art Lens Review.
This lens delivers outstanding image quality and a differentiating look.
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 15mm F1.4 DG DN Diagonal Fisheye Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sigma 15mm F1.4 DG DN Diagonal Fisheye Art Lens from Lensrentals.
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For those unaccustomed to the full frame 10mm focal length, the extraordinarily wide angle of view it provides is certain to bring a big smile to their face and a new look to their images. Those already acclimated to this extreme view know that it can bring the drama needed to set their images apart.
While creating Venus Optics Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF Lens review, I needed interesting large subjects, and the PA state capitol building's atrium and House of Representatives chambers were the choices. While the Senate chamber is also a great subject, it was under construction.
As the title implies, this image shows the PA House of Representatives chamber. After capturing the requisite centered images of the room, I mounted the Laowa 10 to an EOS R5 and moved to the far left of the visitor seating area for a different look, another one that only an extreme wide-angle lens can capture.
This image is an HDR capture processed in Photoshop.
If your kit does not have 10mm covered, consider adding the reasonably affordable Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D Lens to it. Then go visit your favorite architecture.
A larger version of this image is available here.
A comparison including 15mm fisheye and 10mm through 24mm rectilinear focal lengths, along with a short discussion, has been added to the focal length section in these reviews:
Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens
Venus Optics Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF Lens
Click on the "Load Comparison Images" button to enable the mouseover links.
Think Tank Photo just introduced new Pixel Pocket Rockets and Battery Holders, featuring new fabric, colors, and models keep your cards and batteries organized and secure.
Don't forget that you'll get free shipping and a free gift ($50.00 minimum purchase required) when using this site's links for your purchase at Think Tank Photo.
From Canon USA:
Canon Enhances Cinema RAW Light Formats for Flagship Cinema EOS Camera, the EOS C500 Mark II
Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is excited to announce the latest firmware update to the EOS C500 Mark II, with an enhancement of the camera’s Cinema RAW Light capabilities. Up until now, the EOS C500 Mark II was able to shoot 12-bit RAW video at up to 30 frames per second, and 10-bit at frame rates beyond that. Canon is now adding three new Cinema RAW Light formats which will provide 12-bit recording at all frame rates. With the addition of Cinema RAW Light LT (light recording), ST (standard quality), and HQ (high quality) formats, the EOS C500 Mark II will now have four different RAW recording options, a first in the Cinema EOS lineup. 12-bit RAW at high frame rates provides a tremendous boost to Canon’s already-distinguished color science, with enough data provided to render over 68 billion colors.
Canon’s proprietary Cinema RAW Light format offers a significant reduction in file size without sacrificing image quality or grading and compositing headroom. Available on all four current Cinema EOS models, the Cinema RAW Light format allows filmmakers to realize the widest dynamic range of the camera's sensor in a file that's approximately a third to a fifth of the size of a standard Cinema RAW file.
Availability
This firmware update for the Canon EOS C500 Mark II is scheduled for March 21, 2024.
Get the Canon EOS C500 Mark II at B&H.
Just posted: Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports Lens Review
You are going to like this lens.
I intend to add sample pictures to this review, but didn't want to hold back the technical review until they are available.
Please share!
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
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The first name that came to my mind for this image was "Getting High with the Boys." Fortunately, I quickly realized the alternative meaning.
One of the best aspects of photographing dall sheep is being at the high elevation where they live. While the climb is laborious, the views become constantly tremendous.
Multiple animals in the frame exponentially increase the compositional challenge, and in this scenario, the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens allowed the frontmost ram to be isolated. When the compositional challenge can be met by juxtaposing multiple animals in a complementary way, the image value can rise. Again, the RF 100-500 was there for this role, zooming out to 100mm to take in the big scene, with 4 additional rams showing in the background.
Strategically incorporating these rams was aided greatly by three of them having a temporarily fixed position (bedded). The strategy of positioning the camera for those three and waiting for the others to cooperate worked nicely this time.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Canon has added Corporate Strategy Conference presentation materials to the Investor Relations page.
Get your Canon cameras, lens, and accessories at B&H.
From BorrowLenses:
Today we are announcing that Lensrentals has acquired the BorrowLenses brand!
More than 16 years ago, we rented our first piece of equipment from an apartment in San Francisco. Since then, we've expanded to serving millions of customers like you! While we will be closing our doors in California, we are excited the BorrowLenses brand will join Lensrentals and know they'll provide the very best equipment and customer support to ensure you continue to get the gear you need whether you are renting or buying. Get to know Lensrentals here.
Most importantly, your existing or upcoming rentals will continue without interruption from Lensrentals:
In the coming days, we will transition any past or upcoming order information over to Lensrentals to support you in order extensions, adjustments, and new orders alike. Look for an email from Lensrentals with more details soon!.
On behalf of our entire team, thank you for your support and business.
BorrowLenses Team
You are in good hands — Lensrentals is awesome.
Learn more about the new Calibrite Display 123 Colorimeter at B&H.
From Nikon:
Accelerating Expansion in Professional Digital Cinema Camera Market
March 7, 2024
TOKYO - Nikon Corporation (Nikon) hereby announces its entry into an agreement to acquire 100% of the outstanding membership interests of RED.com, LLC (RED) whereby RED will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nikon, pursuant to a Membership Interest Purchase Agreement with Mr. James Jannard, its founder, and Mr. Jarred Land, its current President, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions thereunder.
Since its establishment in 2005, RED has been at the forefront of digital cinema cameras, introducing industry-defining products such as the original RED ONE 4K to the cutting-edge V-RAPTOR [X] with its proprietary RAW compression technology. RED's contributions to the film industry have not only earned it an Academy Award but have also made it the camera of choice for numerous Hollywood productions, celebrated by directors and cinematographers worldwide for its commitment to innovation and image quality optimized for the highest levels of filmmaking and video production.
This agreement was reached as a result of the mutual desires of Nikon and RED to meet the customers’ needs and offer exceptional user experiences that exceed expectations, merging the strengths of both companies. Nikon's expertise in product development, exceptional reliability, and know-how in image processing, as well as optical technology and user interface along with RED’s knowledge in cinema cameras, including unique image compression technology and color science, will enable the development of distinctive products in the professional digital cinema camera market.
Nikon will leverage this acquisition to expand the fast-growing professional digital cinema camera market, building on both companies' business foundations and networks, promising an exciting future of product development that will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in film and video production.
The Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens is in stock at B&H.
Learn more about this incredible lens: Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens Review.
Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results are now available on the Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports Lens page.
This lens optically competes with the best. Here are some comparisons (wide open apertures selected).
Compared to the Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens
Compared to the Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens
Compared to the Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens
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Support this site by ordering the Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports Lens from Lensrentals.
Just posted: Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens Review.
The FE 300 is one of the sharpest lenses I've reviewed. It is an all-around outstanding performer.
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
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