Canon and Sony News for Feb 2014 (Page 5)

The Canon Digital Learning Center (CDLC) has updated its EOS 1D X AF Setting Guidebook (PDF, 12.2MB) to reflect changes implemented in the 1D X's newest firmware (v2.0.3).

Before the firmware update, nearly all of the information in the 1D X Settings Guidebook applied to the 5D Mark III as well as the 1DX. After the update, the 1D X AF system differs from the 5D Mark III in the following ways:

From CDLC:

• Improved low-light AF performance, with AI Servo AF
  EOS-1D X now offers even better AF performance at the start of focus-tracking and for the first shot in a sequence; no special menu settings need to be activated for this once Firmware V. 2.0 is installed in the EOS-1D X.
• Expanded range of Accel./Decel. Tracking settings for steadily moving subjects
  EOS-1D X adds new “-1” and “-2” settings to extend AF stability with subjects moving at continuous, steady speeds. These also help AF not be slightly thrown-off by sudden but minor changes when focus-tracking a distant subject.
• Wider range of “priority” choices — faster shooting speeds or more time for AF
  AI Servo 2nd Image Priority expands its range of choices with new “-2” (maintain fastest possible fps speed during a shooting sequence) and “+2” (slow down or even stop continuous shooting until sharpness is confirmed) settings.
• Orientation Linked AF: option to link same AF Area type to pre-selected AF points
  EOS-1D X now offers the option to have memorized horizontal and vertical AF points with AF Area type linked — if one is changed, the other changes automatically.
• Instantly change AF settings, or jump to 14 fps shooting, with a back-button
  New option to select an entirely new AF “Case,” change AF mode (One Shot AF to AI Servo or vice versa) or instantly switch from standard 12 fps hi-speed to 14 fps super hi-speed shooting by pressing either AF-ON or AE Lock button. Another option for these buttons: toggle from One Shot AF to AI Servo (or vice versa) only, while one of these back-buttons is pressed.
• Register/Recall shooting function: instantly change major settings with a back-button
  EOS-1D X users can memorize an entirely different range of exposure, White Balance, AF Area type and AI Servo AF settings — and apply them to the AF-ON or AE Lock button. Without even removing the camera from the eye, a moving subject can continue to be tracked, even if (for instance) it moves from sunlight into shade or from steady, continuous movement to erratic, stop/start type movement.
• Automatic AF point selection can start from last manually-selected AF point
  New EOS-1D X option to maintain same starting point for Automatic AF point selection, in AI Servo AF, as was being used during manual AF point selection.
• Auto ISO enhancements
  Pre-select a faster minimum shutter speed (all the way up to 1/8000th second), under which Auto ISO will automatically be raised, and new EOS-1D X ability to intentionally apply Exposure Compensation when Auto ISO is used in Manual exposure mode.
• Automatic exposure adjustment if Manual lens aperture suddenly changes
  EOS-1D X now has the option to shift either shutter speed or ISO (user’s choice) if a preset lens aperture in Manual exposure mode suddenly changes — for instance, if shooting wide-open with a lens alone and then adding an EF 1.4x or 2x Extender or if shooting wide-open with an f/2.8 lens and then changing to a slower f/4 or f/5.6 lens.

Even considering the recent changes reflected in the text, most 5D Mark III owners will find most of the information in the 1DX AF Settings Guidebook to be illuminating, relevant and useful.

Download the EOS 1D X AF Setting Guidebook (PDF, 12.2MB) for more information.

Check out filmmaker August Bradley's “Zoetrope Optika" which was filmed using the Zeiss 55mm f/1.4 OTUS Lens.

See behind the scenes information and production images over at planet5D.

From the Canon Digital Learning Center Blog (post by Dan Carr):

"When winter rolls around, many landscapes go through dramatic changes that open up new possibilities for great photos. Snow-laden trees, icicles, frost patterns on foliage and winter sports are just a few of the many options. While many cameras are designed to work flawlessly at even down to 32 °F (0 °C), most will operate beyond this with a few simple precautions.

If you take a camera into a cold environment, the first thing you might notice is that battery life begins to drop. By 32 °F (0 °C), you might only lose 10% of the battery’s potential, but if it grows colder then it starts to become more noticeable. The first step to combat this is to keep your spare batteries inside your clothing, as close to your body as possible. In moderately cold conditions, this will be more than enough to keep the batteries within a normal operating range. It might be tempting to keep smaller point-and-shoot cameras inside your layers as well, but even in cold temperatures, we sweat when exerting energy like when you’re walking through deep snow or skiing. This sweating will cause condensation on your lens and potentially inside your camera, so it’s best to keep smaller cameras in a backpack or outer pocket."

Check out the full article on the Canon Digital Learning Center Blog.

In May of last year, we posted William Bennett's guide on how to create a wireless tethering solution for the 1D X for less than $100.00. In the post, we pointed out that a battery-powered wireless router might be better than relying on a traditional router and an external battery source.

When I published the wireless tethering post, I purchased the TP-LINK battery-powered wireless router just to play around with. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a way to use it to tether my 5D Mark III because the 5D III doesn't have an ethernet port like the 1D X. That meant I had to use the USB port for communicating with the camera. As it turns out, I was not proficient enough in programming or networking to get wireless tethering to work with the 5D III.

Still wanting a wireless tethering solution, I looked for other ways of accomplishing the task. In October, I was able to wirelessly control my Canon EOS 7D using DSLR Controller paired with an Android TV dongle. While the setup worked, it wasn't perfect – the connection was buggy and the Android TV dongle needed an auxiliary power source (which added considerable bulk).

Fast forward to last week when I found DSLR Controller's walk-through for converting the TP-Link Portable Router into a wireless remote. The conversion requires that you flash your router with a custom firmware which basically renders it useless for any of its original purposes (see Note below). One quick firmware update later, I was rolling.

Ever since my first DSLR, I've used self-portraits to experiement with new gear and new techniques. Self-portraits are great because the subject is always available and amazingly patient as you endlessly play with your new gear. ;-)

In standard fashion, I decided to test the DSLR Controller + TP-Link Portable Wireless Router setup by creating a self portrait. I set up the background and lights and connected the router to my tripod mounted 5D III via the USB port and started shooting.

[Diagram courtesy of LightingDiagrams.com]

Lighting Setup:

Flashes were triggered by PocketWizard PlusX transceivers. The background was a Botero #037 Collapsible Reversible Background (Black/White).

Using DSLR Controller + TP-LINK Portable WiFi Router

Admittedly, I had some trouble getting DSLR Controller to connect with my Google Nexus 7 (original version) using the TP-Link Portable WiFi Router. However, once connected, everything worked quite well. The refresh rate on my Nexus 7 was very good; Live View video was very smooth. Exposure controls, camera settings and focus were relatively easy to manipulate using DSLR Controller. Being able to see the camera's Live View video made framing the self-portrait incredibly easy (and fun).

The DSLR Controller app + Portable WiFi Router combination can be used for so much more than making self-portraits easier. Some of my favorite features include HDR capture, timelapse, and focus stacking.

Speaking of focus stacking, I used DSLR Controller with the Portable WiFi Router hooked up to my EOS 7D and EF 100mm f/2.8 macro lens (set to f/8) to create the image of the almond seen below. The final image was created by stacking 38 incrementally focused images with CombineZP (free focus-stacking software).

DSLR Controller even has a "Strobe Recharge Delay" setting that enables you to specify a time delay between shots so that any flashes you're using have time to recharge. For the shot above, a strobe delay setting of 3 seconds allowed my PocketWizard PlusX-triggered 580EX with LumiQuest Softbox LTp to recharge and prevent overheating.

I had absolutely no issues getting DSLR Controller to connect with my "wireless" EOS 7D. The setup worked flawlessly. After easily and reliably being able to connect the setup with my 7D, I tried trouble shooting the setup with my 5D Mark III. I finally figured out that TP-Link Portable WiFi Router simply takes a while to estabilish a connection with the camera (more than 60 seconds). DSLR Controller has some tips for troubleshooting issues on their FAQs, so you may want to read over those if you have trouble getting DSLR Controller to connect.

Update: Regarding the 5D III specifically, I've noticed that DSLR Controller will not want to connect if you are recording images to one card and playing them back using the secondary memory card. Be sure that your "Record func+card/folder sel." setting has "Playback" set to Card 1.

I've also had more success with these steps as opposed to the ones listed on DSLR Controller's website (again, specifically regarding the 5D III). If the connection steps on DSLR Conroller's website don't work for you, try this:

1. Make sure your custom settings mimic those recommended on the FAQ tips on DSLR Controller's website.
2. Power on the 5D III
3. Power on the TL-MR3040
4. Wait for the Wi-Fi LED to turn on
5. Connect your camera to the TL-MR3040 by USB cable
6. Wait about 60 seconds
7. Connect your Android phone or tablet to the DSLR Controller Wi-Fi network
8. Wait for 3rd LED light to appear on WiFi Router (approx. 60 seconds)
9. Start DSLR Controller on your Android device

Although I was using an original Google Nexus 7 tablet, DSLR Controller notes that some people have experienced issues with the newer Nexus 7 FHD tablet released in 2013. If you're wanting to purchase a tablet specifically for DSLR Controller use, I'd stick with the original Google Nexus 7 or another device listed as compatible with DSLR Controller.

Despite the connection issues with my 5D III, I'm really happy and excited about this setup. Once everything gets connected the setup works beautifully. I've been having tons of fun with it and I've barely scratched the surface of what DSLR Controller can do. If you already own a compatible Android phone or tablet, then the DSLR Controller App ($7.99) and TP-LINK TL-MR3040 3G/4G Wireless N150 Portable Router ($34.99) combination can be more fun and creatively inspiring than the [small] financial investement would suggest.

Note: Jorrit Jongma, the developer of DSLR Controller, reached out to me and requested I mention a couple of things. The custom firmware loaded on the TP-Link portable router is OpenWRT firmware which should offer many of the same features (and more) of the original firmware (although converting the device back to the original firmware can be tricky). Also, if your camera features built-in Wi-Fi (like the EOS 6D and 70D), DSLR Controller will work directly with your camera (and offers more functionality than Canon's OEM WiFi app).

From Photoshelter:

Webinar with PhotoShelter's Co-founder and Chairman Allen Murabayashi

No matter your specialty, as a photographer looking to get work you need to be able to answer the two basic questions above. In this webinar Allen will not only guide you through how to answer both questions but will show you how the answers will help you build a better online presence and attract clients to your work.

As the battle for attention rages on in all corners of the web, strategies to gain recognition, get clients, and stay top of mind are constantly changing. Here, Allen offers up tips from the presentations he’s given at WPPI, PPE, The Palm Springs Photo Festival and numerous other conferences. He’ll focus on how to find the best recipe for using the web to attract and engage the right audience and turn them into loyal clients.

In this webinar you’ll learn about:

• The “smell test” (hint: it’s what your online brand is emitting)
• The "search engine lottery" do's and don'ts
• The “stop doing list” (or, how to make smart decisions with your time)
• The “boomerang” effect for getting old clients coming back for more

Date and Time: Wednesday, February 12th, 4:00pm Eastern

Register Now

From LensRentals:

Is there a special item that you've been dying to rent but you haven't pulled the trigger yet? For the last two weeks of February you can save 25% on one item on your order. Simply put promo code 25OFF in the special instructions box.

The Nuts and Bolts:

• The 25% applies to the most expensive item on your order.
• Arrival date for the rental must be between February 17-28th
• Discount only applies to rentals
• Cannot be combined with any other promotions or discounts
• One use per customer

To support this site, click on the appropriate product review and then click the button beside the camera/lens you want to rent.

From MindShift Gear:

Designed for those who want quick access outdoors to their cameras, binoculars, GPS devices, nature identification books, maps, iPads, and more, the rotation180° Panorama’s beltpack rotates to the front for quick gear access and without first having to take off the backpack or even stop hiking. Its upper compartment has room for a 3 liter hydration bladder, jackets, food, and the like.

In addition, MindShift is making available for order two new products for outdoor photographers:

• The Filter Hive is the first case designed for quick access to round, square, and rectangular camera lens filters. The Filter Hive solves organizational and functional problems of conservation, landscape, outdoor action, and wildlife photographers who need quick access to filters of different shapes. The filter case resembles a bee hive with padded, felt-lined slots that protect delicate glass and resin filters.
• The UltraLight Camera Cover is the lightest, most compact camera cover for outdoor photography. Available in three sizes, this “skin-style” camera pouch/cover is designed for outdoor, nature, and action photographers who wear a normal or pro DSLR camera with small to medium lens out on their chest, ready to shoot. Its adjustable shock-cord on lid allows the cover to fit multiple camera and lens combinations.

By placing your order now, you are guaranteed of receiving your gear in this first shipment being received by MindShift Gear. The gear is scheduled to ship in early March.

Just posted: ExpoImaging Rogue Flash Gels Universal Lighting Filter Kit Review

Learn why you need gel filters for your flash and learn how this kit can take your flash photography to another level.

In the Canon ST-E3-RT Speedlite Transmitter review, I included a photo of a large spoonful of tiny balls of candy. I thought you might appreciate knowing more about this image, so I'll share the recipe:

1. Clamp a melon-baller (my large "spoon") over a clean black back-painted glass surface using a Delta Clamp and fill it until overflowing with cookie/cake sprinkles (the tiny balls of candy).

2. Tripod-mount a Sigma 150mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens attached to a Canon EOS 5D Mark III DSLR in manual mode with settings of 1/160, f/16 and ISO 100.

3. Mount a Canon ST-E3-RT Speedlite Transmitter to the 5D III and configure a Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash as a slave.

4. Attach a Rogue FlashBender Softbox XL to the 600EX-RT.

5. While handholding the flash and softbox, trigger the image capture using a Canon RC-6 Wireless Remote.

The result is this image. While the reflection created by the Rogue Softbox is not as smooth as those delivered by more expensive softboxes, the reflection is not bad. One might think that a cloudy sky was the source the reflection.

Overall, I like the bright candy colors in this otherwise monochromatic scene. Images like this are easy to create with the right gear available.

From Sigma:

Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM for Sigma, Canon and Nikon fittings are scheduled to start the shipment towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lens available for preorder.

From Nikon:Waterproof and Shockproof, the Family-Friendly COOLPIX S32 is a Must-Have for Every Family Moment

MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the family-friendly COOLPIX S32, a fun and durable compact camera that practically anyone in the household can use. Ready to endure the elements of nearly any family outing, this sturdy point-and-shoot is waterproof (up to 33 feet, 10m) and shockproof*(1) (up to 5 feet, 1.5m). The S32 also includes a 2.7-inch (6.7cm) LCD display with an intuitive graphic user interface that makes photography easy for every family member, and the durable body will help ease worried parents’ minds.

“Every day can seem like an adventure for busy families, so Nikon designed the COOLPIX S32 to be tough and easy-to-use,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “With Nikon’s trusted image quality, capturing memorable photos and HD videos will be one less thing parents have to worry about.”

Users can relive the memories of a family vacation through beautiful photos and Full HD (1080p) videos thanks to the S32’s 13.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and 3x optical zoom that help to deliver clear images and video, rain or shine. The family can enjoy their favorite moments together with unique playback options, including an in-camera slide show. From taking the first photo of an annual vacation to laughing over a short video at the end of a fun day, the COOLPIX S32 makes photography a family affair. The S32 also includes user friendly features like Motion Detection, Smart Portrait System, as well as Scene Modes and Effects, which will help capture and create that special moment with ease, regardless of which family member is behind the camera.

Price and Availability
The COOLPIX S32 will be in available in March 2014 in White and Blue for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $129.95.

B&H has the Nikon COOLPIX S32 available for preorder.

MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the latest additions to its impressive lineup of COOLPIX cameras that offer incredible optics and great performance. With a myriad of easy-to-use, creative features, the 60x zoom COOLPIX P600 and 42x zoom COOLPIX P530 provide super-long zoom lenses and the versatility needed to capture images and Full HD videos both near and far. Additionally, the ultra-slim, 30x zoom COOLPIX S9700 and the powerful COOLPIX P340 provide exceptional image quality while fitting comfortably in any pocket.

“Incorporating legendary NIKKOR optics, these new COOLPIX cameras provide users with incredible zoom capability and low-light performance that helps produce unrivaled sharpness and detail in their photos and HD videos,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “Users will enjoy capturing amazing photos and Full HD videos from a distance, along with the ability to share unforgettable moments with family and friends instantly.”

New High Power Zooms Allow Users to Get Closer Than Ever Before
COOLPIX P600: Pushing NIKKOR optics to great lengths, the new COOLPIX P600 boasts an impressive 60x optical zoom from a wide-angle 24mm to an unbelievable 1440mm (35mm equivalent) range with the capability to reach even further using 120x Dynamic Fine Zoom. Lens Shift Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization is also incorporated to help reduce the effects of camera shake, allowing users to capture clear photos from incredible distances. With built-in Wi-Fi? connectivity, users can show off these amazing photos with family and friends immediately by transferring images to a compatible smart device and uploading them to their social networks.

In addition to photographing from a distance, the P600 also lets the user compose the ideal photo or video from any angle with help from a high resolution (921k-dot) 3.0-inch (7.5cm) Vari-angle LCD display. Users can shoot above a crowd at a sold-out concert or get low to capture a baby’s first steps. With a 16.1-megapixel backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, the COOLPIX P600 is capable of capturing detailed photos and Full HD 1080/60i video, even in challenging lighting conditions. The P600 also sports advanced features that appeal to serious photographers including full manual controls (P, S, A, M), an electronic viewfinder and an improved battery life that allows up to approximately 330 shots per charge. What’s more, the new Moon and Bird Watching Scene modes make it easier than ever to enjoy the extreme zoom range.

COOLPIX P530: The new COOLPIX P530 also demonstrates the capabilities of NIKKOR optics through an astounding 42x optical zoom with a 24-1000mm range (35mm equivalent) and 84x Dynamic Fine Zoom that gets the user even closer. This long-zoom offering affords the ability to capture subjects at otherwise unreachable distances in clear detail thanks to Lens Shift VR image stabilization, which helps minimize camera shake. At the core of the P530 is a 16.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor that delivers beautiful photos and Full HD 1080/60i videos. Whether a user is looking to grow their photography skills or wanting more control over every shot, the P530 includes full manual controls (P, S, A, M). To help frame stunning photos and HD videos, the COOLPIX P530 sports a 3.0-inch (7.5cm) LCD monitor and a built-in electronic viewfinder, while users can also share their creations with friends and family when connected to the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter.

COOLPIX S9700: With a 30x optical zoom (25-750mm, 35mm equivalent) and 60x Dynamic Fine Zoom packed into a compact body, the new COOLPIX S9700 is putting the power of NIKKOR optics into the hands of users who demand high quality images from a camera small enough to keep up with their active lifestyle. To help eliminate camera shake when utilizing this impressive zoom range, the S9700 incorporates Lens Shift VR image stabilization for share-worthy portraits or action shots. Sharing can happen immediately with the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi1 capability by transferring images to a compatible smart device and uploading them to social networks. Further enhancing the sharing of memories on an exciting trip, the COOLPIX S9700 also includes built-in GPS technology that lets the user see the exact longitude and latitude of where an image or video was captured.

A 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor contributes to the amazing image quality by producing breathtaking photos and Full HD 1080/60i videos. The COOLPIX S9700 also implements Hybrid VR image stabilization for stable video recording, even while handheld. From composing the perfect shot to viewing the photo in crisp detail, the COOLPIX S9700’s high resolution (921K-dot) 3.0-inch (7.5cm) bright OLED monitor helps the user do it all accurately.

Powerful Performance in a Compact Camera
COOLPIX P340: With a versatile 5x (24-120mm, 35mm equivalent) wide-angle to telephoto zoom range plus 10x Dynamic Fine Zoom, and a super-fast f/1.8 maximum aperture lens with Lens Shift VR image stabilization, the COOLPIX P340 utilizes the strength of NIKKOR optics to capture super-sharp photos and Full HD 1080/60i videos with low noise and amazing color. The wide and bright f/1.8 lens gives users the ability to control depth of field and shoot in a wide variety of lighting conditions. This powerful compact camera also incorporates a large 1/1.7-inch, 12.2-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor for superior image quality, and a host of advanced features including full manual controls (P, S, A, M) and RAW (NRW) image capture.

Composing and capturing photos, when inspiration strikes, is simple with the P340’s high resolution (921K-dot) 3.0-inch (7.5cm) LCD monitor and sleek, portable design that fits comfortably in any handbag or shirt pocket. Sharing that inspirational image can also happen on the fly with the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity1 where users can transfer images to a compatible smart device and upload them to their social networks. Proving that great things can come in small packages, the new COOLPIX P340 is a sophisticated camera option for demanding photo enthusiasts who seek more power and versatility in a compact camera.

Price and Availability
The COOLPIX P600 will be available in February 2014 in Black and Red for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $499.95, while the COOLPIX P530 will be available in February 2014 in Black for a SRP of $449.95. Additionally, the COOLPIX S9700 will be available in February 2014 in Black and Red for a SRP of $349.95. Lastly, the COOLPIX P340 will be available in March 2014 in Black for a SRP of $379.95.

B&H has the Nikon Nikon COOLPIX P600, COOLPIX P530, COOLPIX S9700 and COOLPIX P340 available for preorder.

From Nikon:

Beneath Its Durable Exterior, the COOLPIX AW120 Sports Incredible Image Quality and Useful Features Fit for Life’s Adventures

MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the rugged COOLPIX AW120 for those who demand as much from their camera as they do from their adventure. Waterproof (up to 59 feet, 18m), shockproof (up to 6.6 feet, 2m) and freezeproof (down to 14°F, -10°C), the AW120 can handle practically any condition above or below sea level. Equipped with GPS technology, the COOLPIX AW120 lets the user track their exploration down to the exact longitude and latitude of where an image was captured. Explorers can also stay connected when they’re “off the grid” with built-in mapping and an Electronic Compass to help navigate the unknown. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows the user to seamlessly transfer images or HD video of any adventure to compatible smart devices for easy sharing of quality imagery to their social networks, friends and family.

“The new COOLPIX AW120 is uniquely designed for Nikon’s thrill-seeking consumers who are living life to the fullest, and need a camera to keep up,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. We’ve incorporated useful features and technology while still providing the image quality that Nikon has become synonymous with, so users can spend less time navigating their camera and more time navigating their adventure.”

The COOLPIX AW120 features a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor that helps preserve adventurous moments that are worth reliving in stunning photos and Full HD 1080/60i video. Furthermore, a wide angle 5x (24-120mm) optical zoom lens and 10x Dynamic Fine Zoom with Hybrid Vibration Reduction (VR), a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture and about 6.9 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting ensure that photos and videos are captured in clear detail, despite the distance or tumultuous climate the explorer may be in. Knowing that operating a camera should not stop an excursion, the COOLPIX AW120 sports an intuitive graphic user interface and Nikon’s Action Control function that allows seamless operation with gloved hands. To help frame stunning photos and HD videos, the COOLPIX AW120 sports a bright 3.0-inch (7.5cm) high-resolution OLED monitor as well.

Additionally, the AW120 can be mounted to a new chest harness that allows the user to securely fasten the camera around their chest, which is helpful when capturing exciting stills and videos from a unique in-the-action point of view. The COOLPIX AW120 can also be fitted with optional silicone jackets that provide a second layer of protection as well as a stylish new look. The silicone jackets will be available in several different colors including Black, Orange, Blue and Khaki.

Price and Availability
The COOLPIX AW120 will be available in March 2014 in Orange, Blue, Black and Camouflage for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $349.95.

B&H has the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 available for preorder.

Our friends over at LensRentals put together a video to show how much they care about their lenses.

Instead of roses, I think I'll just buy all my lenses new microfiber clothes this year. [Sean]

To support this site, click on the appropriate product review and then click the button beside the camera/lens you want to rent.

From Canon:

Canon Congratulates the Team of Imaging Professionals Who Captured the Iconic Moments of the Big Game

MELVILLE, N.Y., February 6, 2014 – On February 2nd imaging professionals from across the country gathered in New Jersey to cover the big game between teams from Seattle and Denver. Prepared to battle the potential elements, these professionals provided football fans with images documenting monumental moments and plays that can be watched, enjoyed and relived for years to come.

"We are honored to have seen so many photographers using our equipment to capture images of the big game this past weekend. Canon is committed to ensuring our products and support live up to the needs and expectations of our customers, and it is always humbling to see Canon equipment being used in such high profile events," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. was on site in New Jersey with its Canon Professional Services (CPS) team to provide these professionals with convenient access to support personnel, equipment maintenance, and product loans. "I have personally been impressed with Canon's proactive, prompt and thoughtful support for professionals," said Tom Hauck, freelance sports photographer who photographed the game and has shot over 350 professional football games in his career. "Before the game, I sent all my gear to Canon's Irvine service facility to be cleaned and checked and I got everything back in about two days. And at the game, Canon's CPS staff was on site providing information on how to better understand and get the most from my equipment as well as peace of mind."

The sidelines of the big game were lined with photographers using Canon EOS Digital SLR cameras and iconic white lenses. Canon is honored that more than 75 percent* of professional photographers covering the game utilized Canon DSLR cameras and EF lenses to capture and share the memorable moments of the gridiron matchup. Canon broadcast lenses were also used extensively to deliver the game to more than 111 million television viewers.

Currently, CPS is on-site in Sochi, Russia providing support to photographers and broadcasters throughout the month of February.

*Based on Canon U.S.A., Inc. survey and data, as of February 4, 2014