Canon and Sony News for Jan 2015 (Page 3)
From Tamron:
Tamron's state-of-the-art lens design features an XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element and eBAND Coating for outstanding detail and performance from the center to the edges of the frame over the entire zoom range.
Saitama, Japan - Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono), a leading manufacturer of precision optics, announces the release of a groundbreaking F/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras.
Since 2012, Tamron has been expanding its lineup of interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras. The Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A007) was the world's first F/2.8 high-speed standard zoom lens to include image stabilization, followed by the development of the unique SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009), SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F004), and SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A011) lenses, all of which have been highly acclaimed among the photo enthusiasts around the globe. Now, we have developed SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A012) to expand the world of imaging possibilities in the wide-angle range.
Product Highlights
- Superior, class leading imaging performance using an innovative XGM lens element
With an optical construction consisting of 18 elements in 13 groups, including, for the first time, an XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element placed in the front group, and several Molded-Glass Aspherical elements and LD (Low Dispersion) elements used throughout the optical system, aberrations such as geometrical distortion and lateral color are efficiently corrected enabling the zoom lens to deliver outstanding image quality throughout its entire zoom range from corner to corner. - Enhanced sharpness with exclusive VC image stabilization when shooting handheld in low light or at night
In response to popular demand, Tamron has created the world's first F/2.8 ultra-wide- angle zoom lens with VC (Vibration Compensation). The VC allows shooting at slow shutter speeds and in low light conditions, and effectively compensates for minor camera shake, whilst maintaining class leading optimal performance. - eBAND Coating provides superior anti-reflection properties
In addition to further optimizing Tamron's acclaimed BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating, the eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating has also been employed in this lens. This combination offers superior anti-reflection properties especially important in ultra-wide-angle lenses which are particularly susceptible to flare and ghosting due to their wide angle of view, and provides superior quality and crystal-clear images by minimizing unwanted light reaching the sensor. - 15-30mm zoom covers both ultra-wide and semi-wide-angle focal lengths
At its ultra-wide-angle settings this lens can capture, in a single photograph, broad landscapes that cannot be taken in fully by the human eye. At its semi-wide-angle focal lengths, it's ideal for travel and street photography. In short, this unique lens utilizes the zoom function to provide maximum shooting flexibility with a wide range of subjects. - Fascinating background "bokeh" throughout the wide-angle range due to its fast constant F/2.8 aperture
Utilizing its shallow depth of field at F/2.8, it enables users to capture beautiful bokeh effects even at wide coverage angles. Its advanced optical formula and 9-bladed circular diaphragm are designed with defocused photography in mind - perfect for creating images where subjects stand out from their natural, blended backgrounds. - Proven fluorine coating utilizing Tamron's industrial lens expertise is used on the front element
Fluorine coating, with an established track record in Tamron's industrial lenses, such as those used in automotive cameras, has been applied to the front element. It repels water and dirt, and makes it easier to remove smudges. - Flexible, high-performance focusing with USD
USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) delivers high torque, high precision, and virtually silent autofocus action. A full-time manual focus mechanism permits fine focus adjustments instantly without needing to exit AF mode. - Lens hood designed to prevent light from striking lens at all focal lengths
This unique lens hood provides effective shading of the front lens surface over the entire zoom range to minimize flare. It utilizes the unique characteristics of the optical system in which the front lens group recedes as you zoom in from 15 mm to 30 mm. - Double-hood structure provides additional strength
A double-hood structure has been incorporated into the lens design to improve the durability of the zoom mechanism. - Comes with "SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron", RAW image processing software customized for Tamron SP lenses
The SILKYPIX Developer Studio software can develop high-quality images from RAW data, incorporating adjustments that can express the personal style and taste of the photographer. These include white balance, color, sharpness, and the tonal curves recorded by digital cameras. The SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron provides a range of functions in addition to the basic adjustment capabilities, such as correcting aberrations (chromatic aberrations, distortion, peripheral light fall-off), based on the optical data. Used in tandem with Tamron's SP series lenses - renowned for their crisp, high-resolution imaging - this advanced technology efficiently produces images that meet photographers' most exacting demands.
Date of Launch: Gradually launching from January 30, 2015
Dedicated Tamron Page: http://www.tamron.co.jp/en/lineup/a012/index.html
Note: B&H doesn't have the lens available for preorder yet and the product pages do not indicate a price. However, Adorama has the lens available for preorder for $1,199.00 with free expedited shipping.
Update: Adorama's product page says, "NEW ITEM, NOT RELEASED YET. This Item is currently in Developement and has not been released yet. The price has not been set yet."
So either one of two things has happened:
- Adorama has filled in an expected MSRP for the lens, but it isn't the official price (to be updated later) or
- Adorama has published the actual MSRP but has not updated the status of the item
It seems that you can go through the preorder process at Adorama, so the second possibility may be the answer.
From Adobe:
We are hard at work on the next major release of Lightroom, and wanted to share some information on operating system requirements in order to give everyone time to prepare for the release.
In order to leverage the latest operating system features and technologies, Lightroom 6 will require Mac OS X 10.8 or above, or a 64 bit version of Windows 7, 8 or 8.1. Focusing our work on more modern operating systems and architectures allows us to spend more time adding functionality requested by users, including additional advanced imaging features and improving general application performance.
If you are on Mac OS X 10.7, or a 32 bit version of Windows, you will continue to be able to install and run Lightroom 5 and use Lightroom mobile. However, you will not be able to install Lightroom 6 until you upgrade to a supported operating system.
If you are currently running Mac OS X 10.7, Apple offers a free upgrade (here) to a more current operating system. For Windows users, Microsoft has a how-to reference (here) to help you determine whether you are running a 32 or 64 bit version of Windows.
FromNikon:
Updates included in this 2.0.2 download
- Support for the D5500 has been added.
- Preview images can now be rotated.
Additional modifications to the Macintosh version
- Support for OS X version 10.10.1 has been added.
- OS X version 10.7.5 is no longer supported.
Image quality results from the EOS 7D Mark II have been added to the Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens review.
Since I am primarily shooting full frame cameras, I don't have many EF-S lenses in my kit. However, I have the 15-85. This lens is a great choice for general purpose use. If you have interest in this lens, now is the time to buy. The $100.00 mail-in rebate expires Jan 31st (USA only)
B&H has the Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens in stock.
As I write this, those of us in the mid and upper latitudes of the northern hemisphere are in the dead of winter and many of us are envying those near-to and opposite the equator from us. Many photographers regard winter as the photographically-challenging season and many went into deep hibernation weeks ago.
When the photography challenges become big, the best photographers are still able to make great images and the rest can learn to do so. One of the aspects of photography that I love most is that none of us will ever completely master every aspect of photography, yet winter is a prime time for growth. I admit that winter is not my favorite season for photography (and I'll include early spring in this regard), but winter is still a great time to photograph and a great time to further your photographic skills.
The key to winter photography (and to photography in general) is to embrace the opportunities available to you and to maximize the imagery potential of them.
Sean and I have been gathering ideas to wake you from your slumber and to motivate you. Over the next couple of months, we will be randomly posting winter photography tips to prevent your skills from languishing through the cold, dark season.
This series of posts will be tagged Winter Photography Tips. Bookmark that link for reference throughout this winter and put a reoccurring note in your calendar for future winters.
Do you have winter photography tips to share? Send us your ideas for consideration!
From Manfrotto:
Collection Includes Range of Hiking Backpacks, Versatile Walking Sticks and Tripod
Upper Saddle River, N.J. – Manfrotto, a leading global innovator and manufacturer of premium photo, video and lighting support products and accessories, has announced the launch of its new Off Road Collection, uniquely crafted and designed to meet the needs of outdoor photographers who are looking for compact and lightweight accessories to help capture their adventure and support their imaging missions. The Off Road collection includes a pair of quality, Italian-made walking sticks with camera attachment converting it to a monopod, a lightweight tripod and a collection of new hiker backpacks for photographic gear, all available in a variety of colors to match hiking gear.
“We’re finding that more and more professional and enthusiast photographers are honing their skills in the great outdoors, and with that in mind, Manfrotto saw an opportunity to develop and market camera supports and accessories designed specifically for their needs,” said Paul Zakrzewski, Director of Marketing for Manfrotto Distribution, Inc. “We’re confident that the Off Road collection will be well received amongst these users and are excited to apply our expertise in developing versatile, high-quality, protective photographic gear, to this market.”
Manfrotto has partnered with Italian company Fizan, a global leader within the ski and trekking pole market with a strong heritage in the outdoor world. Utilizing Fizan’s cutting-edge lightweight tubes technology, the walking sticks and tripod have been engineered to be extremely lightweight, with the walking sticks weighing less than one pound for the pair and the tripod weighing just 1.43 lbs., making it the lightest in the Manfrotto range. The walking sticks and tripods are made of lightweight aluminum tubes and close telescopically into three sections and four sections, respectively, with a simple twist-to-lock mechanism.
The Off Road photographic walking sticks now make outdoor photography much simpler, as they are designed to answer the needs of passionate hikers who are sensitive to weight and desire ease of use. The poles feature a comfortable handgrip, a wrist strap and spiked-base feet with rubber covers, offering maximum stability on a variety of grounds. With an integrated camera mount and quick wheel attachment at the top of one pole, users can easily transform the stick into a monopod to conveniently capture the beautiful sights of wherever their adventure takes them. With a maximum payload of 5.5 lbs., users can simply remove the protective cap and screw the pole into the camera to attach it. Off Road walking sticks are available now for $99.00 in green, red or blue color options.
Designed to meet hikers’ needs, the Off Road tripods are easy and quick to set up, and are extremely compact with a diameter of just 5 cm, making it portable in any situation. The universal ¼ inch camera attachment and the new quick wheel make it possible to attach and detach your camera in seconds, and the aluminum built-in ball head and single adjustment knob are perfect for quick positioning of the camera and for easily locking all movements. The head also features an integrated leveling bubble, ensuring the correct shooting position. The feet of the tripod also have spiked bases for maximum stability. With a maximum payload of 5.5 lbs., the tripod is ideal for a wide range of cameras. The Off Road tripod is available now for $149.99 in green, red or blue.
To complete the new Off Road collection, Manfrotto is also introducing a line of backpacks, serving as the ideal carrying solution to comfortably store, transport and access gear while hiking in the outdoors. Manfrotto’s Off Road backpacks make it easier than ever to capture all of your special moments while hiking, with conveniently located pockets and dedicated straps to carry both the walking sticks and tripod. The backpacks are strategically designed to allow users to carry ample amount of personal belongings as well as camera gear such as an HDSLR with lenses and accessories thanks to the removable protective camera compartment and Camera Protection System. By unzipping the internal divider and removing the camera compartment, users can convert the backpack into a regular outdoor backpack for hiking. The backpacks also feature an innovative solution for carrying camera equipment on your chest to avoid strain on your neck and keep it close to your body. They also contain a padded waist belt and chest straps for added support and stability, and a breathable back system to minimize sweat and ensure comfort. Off Road backpacks will be available in January for $199.99. The 30L model comes in four colors options, including green, red, blue and gray.
B&H carries Manfrotto Off Road products.
The NTR Ribbon Microphone is another new product from RØDE. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find any press release or introductory material for the mic aside from the production video seen above and the demonstration video below. It definitely looks interesting...
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Figure-8 Polar Pattern
- 20 Hz to 20 kHz Frequency Response
- 130 dB Maximum SPL
- 1.8 Micron Ribbon Element
- Internal Shock Mounting System
- Includes Ribbon-Securing Travel Screw
B&H has the RØDE NTR Active Ribbon Microphone available for preorder.
From the RØDE YouTube Channel:
The NTG4 and NTG4+ are two new directional condenser (shotgun) microphones from RØDE, combining premium performance with features that improve audio fidelity and usability.
The NTG4+ is the first shotgun microphone to feature an inbuilt lithium battery. Providing over 150 hours of operation, the battery can be charged by any USB power source in around two hours using the supplied MicroUSB cable.
B&H has the RØDE NTG4 and NTG4+ Shotgun Microphones available for preorder.
From the RØDE Microphones Vimeo Channel:
RØDE is pleased to announce the RØDELink fully digital wireless audio system. Using a next-generation 2.4GHz, 128-bit encrypted digital transmission sent on two channels simultaneously, RØDELink provides a high-resolution 24-bit/44.1k digital audio signal at a range of up to 100 meters (over 100 yards).
The first product offering in the RØDELink system is the Filmmaker kit, which includes a camera-mounted receiver, beltpack transmitter and broadcast-grade lavalier microphone.
B&H has the RodeLink Wireless Filmmaker Kit available for preorder for only $399.00 with free shipping (competing products in that market segment cost about 50% more).
Sunflowers, with their large size and bright colors, make great photo subjects. Add a bee to take the overall composition one step further.
For this image, I moved in close to the foreground flower, keeping it completely in the frame which places the center about 1/3 into the frame. I then moved to position a similar flower in the background. Again, that flower is fully contained in the frame and the green leaves anchor the bottom of the composition.
The shallow depth of field created by the combination of an 85mm focal length and f/1.4 aperture draws a viewer's eye directly to the bee and to the sharp flower petals (with strong contrast also pulling the viewer's eye to this location).
This image is razor sharp across the back of the bee (thanks to the Zeiss Otus 85), but details quickly soften in front of and behind that plane of sharp focus.
A larger version of this image is available on Google+, Flickr and Facebook. Also, if reading from a news feed reader, click through to see the framed image.
ISO 100
5760 x 3840px
From Nikon:
Updates included in this 2.10.3 download
Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions
- Support for the D5500, COOLPIX S3700, S2900, L32, and L31 has been added.
Additional modifications to the Windows version
- When images were converted to JPEG format using the Convert Files function with Quality set to Good Compression Ratio or Highest Compression Ratio, the resulting JPEG images could not be displayed in ViewNX 2, Capture NX 2, or Capture NX-D. This issue has been resolved.
Additional modifications to the Macintosh version
- Support for OS X version 10.10.1 has neen added.
- OS X version 10.7.5 is no longer supported.
- Support for the S6900 has been added.
- When image files are moved, copied, or deleted in ViewNX 2, sidecar files associated with the image files are now also moved, copied, or deleted along with image files. However, when image files are moved or copied to destinations outside of ViewNX 2, such as the desktop, sidecar files associated with the images files will not be moved or copied accordingly.
Image quality test results from the EOS 7D Mark II have been added to the Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM Lens review page.
The EF-S 10-18 is a very good value, with decent image quality, very light weight and a feature without comparison in this focal length range: image stabilization. If your kit is missing an ultra-wide focal length lens, it is very likely that you would find this lens worth adding.
B&H has the Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM Lens in stock.
From Nikon USA:
To users of the Nikon D750 digital SLR camera
Thank you for choosing Nikon for your photographic needs.
We have received indications from some users that when photographing scenes in which a bright light source, such as the sun or high-intensity lighting, is at a certain position along the top border of the frame, flare with an unnatural shape may sometimes occur in images captured with the D750 digital SLR camera.
For those who have already purchased a D750 and would like to have their camera serviced to correct this issue, Nikon service centers will service cameras as indicated below. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this issue may have caused.
Identifying affected products
To check whether or not your camera is one of those affected by this issue, click Check Your Serial Number below and enter your D750's serial number as instructed. Results for the serial number entered will be displayed. If these results show that your camera is one of those affected, instructions for requesting service will be displayed. If your camera is not one of those affected, rest assured that you may continue using your camera without concern for this issue.
Please note that even if a camera's serial number identifies it as one affected by this issue, a black dot inside the tripod socket on the bottom of the camera, like that shown in the photo below, indicates that the measures to resolve this issue as indicated below have already been applied.
Resolution
If your camera is affected, as confirmed with serial number check above you will be provided with information on requesting service from your nearest Nikon service center. The service center will inspect and service light-shielding components, and adjust AF sensor position, to resolve the occurrence of unnaturally shaped flare free of charge. This service will not have any effect on autofocus precision, or on the performance of other camera functions.
Please understand that even with these measures, all digital SLR cameras may experience flare when backlit scenes are being captured.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this matter may have caused you.
Please be assured that Nikon is continuously working and taking measures to further improve the quality of its products. Once again, thank you for choosing Nikon for your photographic needs.
From the Canon Imaging Plaza YouTube Channel:
Changing your lens might change your life dramatically. We want you to feel how differences in camera lenses effect your photographs and images.
Explore the wide variety of unique lenses as a young tourist takes a walk around Tokyo and Yokohama.
Gear Featured
From PocketWizard:
Sports Photographers around the world can now have Custom IDs installed in their Plus III radios.
So. Burlington, VT – January 16, 2015 – LPA Design, manufacturers of PocketWizard Photo Products, announces the immediate availability of Custom IDs for Plus III radios. In light of the recent retirement of the MultiMAX Transceiver, we felt it was very important to offer a Custom ID solution for Sports Shooters and other photographers who shoot in crowded venues.
What is a Custom ID? It is a private digital code that no one can trigger but you. It is a premium service offered exclusively by PocketWizard. In hyper-crowded shooting environments, such as large sporting events, Custom IDs give you the confidence to know that your remote flash or camera can only be triggered by you and not any other photographer. It is a unique code installed on top of an existing PocketWizard frequency replacing one of your normal Channels with your new custom code and frequency combination.
No other manufacturer offers such a valuable service. Custom ID’s are $95 per ID per unit and this service is only available directly through LPA Design, the manufacturer of PocketWizard products. There is no set-up fee and the customer is responsible for all shipping costs.
Plus III Custom IDs are compatible with MultiMAX Custom IDs. MultiMAX firmware version 7.50 and later has a feature for moving a Custom ID to a different frequency. Plus III Custom IDs are set to fixed frequencies. You will need to match your MultiMAX frequency to the Plus III. Learn more here: http://wiki.pocketwizard.com/index.php?title=Multiuser_Environments
How do you get a Custom ID?
You must first own at least two Custom ID-capable radios like the Plus III or MultiMAX. LPA Design only sells radios through dealers, but the Custom ID service can only be performed at LPA Design (that’s how we guarantee unique IDs). We recommend you buy your Plus III radios from your favorite PocketWizard dealer and drop-ship them directly to LPA Design for Custom ID installation. Please send an email to info@pocketwizard.com with your contact information prior to ordering the radios. We will contact you for payment and final shipping arrangements when we receive your radios.
B&H carries PocketWizard Plus III transceivers.
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