Canon and Nikon News for 2011/02 Report News & Deals

B&H now has the Canon EOS Rebel T3i Body in stock.

Canon has made the EOS Rebel T3i and T3 owners manuals available. The download links are in the More Information section at the bottom of the Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Review page and the Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D Review page.

The Canon Digital Learning Center has posted an article explaining the Flash Release functionality of the new Canon 270EX II Speedlite Flash and the Canon 320EX Speedlite Flash.

Manfrotto has announced new tripods and tripod heads as follows (links are to Manfrotto News release pages):
 
Manfrotto 057 Tripod Series
Manfrotto 050 Center Ball Head Series
Manfrotto Pocket Tripod Series
Manfrotto 390 Tripod Series

B&H has the Canon EOS Rebel T3i Kit in stock.

B&H has the Lexar Professional Compact Flash 300x 32GB Memory Card for only $119.95 shipped. This is one of the cards I use - they work great.
 
Update: Adorama has the Lexar 32GB Professional 400x CompactFlash Card for only $120.95 shipped. (thanks Alan)

Canon UK has put the Canon EOS camera and lens compatibility issue into English for us:
 
FAQ: Peripheral AF points operation limitation with certain EF lenses Issue
 
When using any of eight zoom lenses listed below released between 1990 and 1995 with any of the listed cameras, the peripheral AF points do not function as cross-type AF points resulting in vertical and horizontal lines not being simultaneously detected. Vertical or horizontal lines can only be detected separately.
 
Affected products:
 
Cameras
EOS 7D EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6
EOS 40D EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 II
EOS 50D EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 III
EOS 60D EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 USM
 
Lenses
EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6
EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 II
EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 III
EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 USM
EF 35-105mm f/4-5.6
EF 35-105mm f/4-5.6 USM
EF 80-200mm f/4.5-5.6 II
EF 80-200mm f/4.5-5.6 USM
 
Cause
This is due to the optical characteristics of the camera’s AF sensor and lens. If the maximum aperture of the EF lenses and EF-S lenses other than the lenses above is up to f5.6, all of the AF points function as cross-type AF points, and both vertical and horizontal lines are simultaneously detected.
 
Answer:
We would like to apologize for not including this information in the user’s manuals of the affected cameras.
 
 
I think that you will also find the following Tamron lenses to have the same issue:
 
Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 VC Lens
Tamron 60mm f/2 Macro Lens
Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Lens
Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Lens

I have added a perspective example to the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens Review. Scroll down to SUV image and start reading the paragraph above it.

B&H is now accepting Canon EOS Rebel T3i Kit preorders.
 
When B&H begins accepting preorders for an item, the item is usually expected to be in stock soon.

Canon Marketing Japan Inc. has posted a lens compatibility notice for owners of EOS 7D, 60D, 50D and 40D DSLRs.
 
Here is the (rough) Google translation:
 
Digital SLR camera "EOS 7D", "EOS 40D", "EOS 50D", "EOS 60D" to customers are using
 
The Canon products patronage patronize you, Thank you.
 
Products for the title, the lens being eight below (released during the years from 1990 to 1995) when used in conjunction with the surrounding AF ranging Cross in the frame (simultaneous detection of horizontal length) is performed not. Ordered specifications and detect vertical or horizontal line detection.
 
As well as apologize for the leak was noted from the contents of this manual and I will send details. We look forward thank you for your understanding.
 
Products (camera)
 
EOS 7D
EOS 40D
EOS 50D
EOS 60D
 
Products (lens)
 
EF35-80mm F4-5.6
EF35-80mm F4-5.6 II
EF35-80mm F4-5.6 III
EF35-80mm F4-5.6 USM
EF35-105mm F4.5-5.6
EF35-105mm F4.5-5.6 USM
EF80-200mm F4.5-5.6 II
EF80-200mm F4.5-5.6 USM
 
PhenomenonTarget camera, lens when used in conjunction with the above subject, ranging around the cross-frame AF (simultaneous detection of vertical horizontal) does not. Detection and specification of horizontal or vertical line detection. This is likely because the camera's AF and lens on the optical properties of the sensor.
 
EF lenses and the other being open at EF-S Lenses Lens FNo. F5.6 but until you are all cross-frame AF ranging (simultaneous detection of vertical horizontal) will be.
 
 
Apparently, the outer cross-type AF points on these DSLRs do not function properly with these lenses mounted.
 
(thanks David)

Canon USA has adjusted the listed prices for a handful of lenses. Here are the affected lenses with their old and new prices:
 

Lens	Old Price	New Price
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens	$1,449.00	$1,399.00
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens	$1,249.00	$1,149.00
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens	$1,799.00	$1,699.00
Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 USM Lens	$519.99	$539.99
Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 Lens	$359.99	$374.99
Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Lens	$489.99	$509.99
Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 Lens	$269.99	$259.99
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Lens	$99.99	$125.99
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens	$389.99	$399.99
Canon EF 100mm f/2.0 USM Lens	$479.99	$499.99
Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens	$11,999.00	$12,999.00

 
What this means for street prices, I am unsure.
 
Updated: More lenses added.

Induro has announced new Adventure Series Tripod models (Induro press release).

Zirndorf, 02/2011
 
Forever compatible thanks to Mac updates
 
Advanced update function for flash devices
 
Metz flash devices can be consistently updated via software update, ensuring they stay compatible with the latest camera models – even after purchase. Software updates, which are available on the Metz homepage www.metz.de, can be downloaded in a flash via the integrated USB interface on the 58 AF-1 digital, 58 AF-2 digital, 48 AF-1 digital, 50 AF-1 digital, 44 AF-1 digital and 15 MS-1 digital models. Until now, updates have only been available via computers with Windows, however software updates are now also possible via Apple computers. Mac OS-X 10.6 is currently the basic operating requirement.
 
New software updates ready to go
 
The latest software updates have been available on the Metz homepage since February. The update-compliant Metz mecablitz devices are fully compatible with the following models: Sony Alpha 580, Sony Alpha 55, Sony Alpha 33, Pentax K - r and Pentax K - 5 – with immediate effect.
 
Multifaceted special functions
 
Metz flash devices are tailored specifically to individual camera models and work with them in perfect synchronicity. This means that practically all current camera models made by different manufacturers can be used without limitation. Over and above this, some Metz flash devices even offer functions which exceed the functionality of the original equipment. The mecablitz 58 AF-2 digital, for example, is equipped with an innovative secondary reflector, servo mode and an integrated interface for USB updates.
 
Service and tradition – Made in Germany
 
Metz has been consistently engineering and manufacturing flash devices at its location in Germany for over 59 years. The Metz range of flash devices extends from the high-performance mecablitz 58 AF-2 digital system flash to professional handheld flash guns and slave flash devices such as the mecablitz 15 MS-1 digital. The company, with its long-standing tradition, provides high quality products, Made in Germany, and is the only full range supplier of flash devices worldwide.

I have added 4 Canon lenses to the Used DSLR Gear Page.
 
Included are three sweet super-telephoto lenses. They must go to make room on the credit line for the new, painfully expensive versions.

B&H has new Lowepro Lens Cases in stock - including a model (coming soon) that appears will fit the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens.

Strobist and McNally may have the Flash Bus, but have you seen Harrod Blank's Camera Van? Definitely over the top. I will bet that Strobist and McNally do not have a Flash Suit on the tour bus.

Microstock photographer Yuri Arcurs shares a video tour of his new studio. The lighting gear shown in this video will make the most seasoned strobist drool.
 

54 new lens / camera combinations have been added to the DxO Optics Modules library, providing supports for Canon, Nikkor, Sigma and Tamron lenses, for numerous Canon and Nikon cameras.
 
To see supported and planned combinations, click on the link bellow then select the second tab.
 
Supported or planned combinations
 
DxO Optics Pro is available at B&H.

According to an article at AmateurPhotographer.co.uk, Canon has pulled out of the UK's biggest consumer photo show, Focus on Imaging.
 
"A Canon UK spokesperson said: 'We are currently reviewing our marketing strategy and it is unfortunate that this decision falls just ahead of Focus on Imaging'." (thanks Mark)

In an interview, Kevin Roach, the AP's VP for Broadcast News, discusses multi-format journalism using Canon EOS 5D Mark II video.

Through April 2, 2011, take advantage of a $200 MIR on the popular Epson Stylus Photo R1900 Inkjet Printer (B&H).

Canon Winter 2011 Lens Rebates | Canon Winter 2011 DSLR Camera Rebates.
 
I don't see any surprises - other than the Canon EOS 1Ds III being included under the "Eligible EOS HD Cameras" heading. :)

Nikon USA has posted ViewNX 2.1.1 for download.
 
Nikon Europe has also posted ViewNX 2.1.1 for Mac and Windows.
 
Hit the links for the short list of fixes in 2.1.1 and the relatively long list of enhancements in 2.1.0.

Helen Oster, Adorama Camera Customer Service Ambassador, explains the new EOS 60D and 7D pricing under the current Canon USA rebate program. This is a forum link - go down to Helen's post - about the 14th down. We appreciate the clarification, Helen.

From now through Mar 19, 2011, Canon is offering some healthy instant rebates on some very nice cameras and lenses. An official announcement has not been made yet, but here is what I've determined so far:
 

Model	Rebate Amount
Canon EOS 7D	$200.00
Canon EOS 60D	$100.00
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens	$120.00/$240.00
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens	$100.00/$200.00
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens	$200.00/$400.00
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM Lens	$100.00/$100.00
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens	$80.00/$160.00

 
These lens rebate amounts are doubled with the purchase of one of the following Canon EOS DSLR Cameras:
 
Canon EOS 1D Mark IV
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Canon EOS 7D
Canon EOS 60D
 
Canon DSLR plus printer rebates are currently in effect. Buy a Canon EOS 5D Mark II, 7D, 60D, T2i or T1i and receive a $500 Mail-in-Rebate when purchased together with Canon PIXMA Pro9500 Mk II printer or $400 Mail-in-Rebate when purchased together with Canon PIXMA Pro9000 Mk II printer. These printers are definitely worth the $49 net cost after rebate - the ink alone is worth a lot more than that. The printer rebate offer ends 03/31/2011.
 
The other deal you should be aware of is the $100 off Adobe Lightroom when purchased with a DSLR. See B&H's site for more details.

Canon will be attending the 2011 Wedding & Portrait Photographer International Convention (press release).

Zeiss 18mm f/3.5 Distagon T* ZE Lens Sample Pictures have been added to the site.
 
You will recognize many of these images from the St. John, US Virgin Islands Gallery. Many of the additional photos were taken in Ricketts Glen State Park - for which a Ricketts Glen State Park Gallery now exists. If you like landscape photography and are anywhere near north-central PA, make this park one of your destinations.

Photogenic Professional Lighting has announced the launch of the company’s new PL625DR/PL625DRC Powerlight monolights.

Sharing some pictures from a recent photo trip: St. John, USVI Photo Gallery

LPA Design Preliminary Research Report on Canon 580EX II Flash Failures (19 Page PDF) (thanks Mike)

Adorama has Canon EOS 60D DSLR bodies (refurbished by Canon - 1yr warranty) for only $799.95 shipped (in stock soon - taking orders now).

Bibble 5.2.1 Pro & Lite are now available for download.

Now OOS: B&H has the Nikon 35mm f/1.4G AF-S NIKKOR Lens in stock. Act fast if you want one of these.

Nikon has posted D90 and D5000 Firmware Version 1.002.
 
"The Distortion Control Data firmware upgrade is available for Nikon D90 and D5000 cameras only. This is used to correct barrel and pincushion distortion during shooting and editing. This may be loaded into cameras that support distortion control."

Sigma Corporation of America Kicks Off Company’s 50th Anniversary at WPPI 2011 (press release)

Canon today has announced the 44-inch imagePROGRAF iPF8300S and 24-inch imagePROGRAF iPF6300S printers.

Manfrotto 290 Series
 
"The 290 is the newborn series in the Manfrotto range. Developed from the experience of the 190, the 290 is the ideal tool to develop your skill and passion for photography and video. Some key features like the professional aluminium and adjustable leg locks for unsurpassed stability, and anti-rotation columns akin to pro tripods for great accuracy, are unique for this support category. Thanks to highly durable materials, sturdy construction, advanced settings and removable head for future upgrades, the 290 is excellent value and an investment to serve you for years to come. It comes in various popular sizes and kits, and especially in the short four section version - it is also the ideal tool for travelling."
 
Check out the press release for more information.
 
Manfrotto Compact Series
 
"The brand new Manfrotto Compact series is the most compact and intuitive range of supports on the market. It is an excellent value solution to effectively hold and support your new photo and video equipment and bring the best out of it. The Compact makes your shooting experience as enjoyable and trouble-free as never before - both in use, thanks to simple and clear controls, and travelling, thanks to the incredible compact design and unique features. The 360 tripods come in two versions: a new special dual purpose head for photomovie applications, and an ultra compact photo version with unique reversible column for increased compactness. The Compact is also available as a monopod - the most compact and versatile support for both photo and movie applications."
 
The Manfrotto Stile line of cases are on the Manfrotto website.

Apple has posted Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 3.6.
 
This update adds RAW image compatibility for the following cameras to Aperture 3 and iPhoto '11:
 
Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D / Kiss X50
Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D / Kiss X5
Olympus E-5
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100
Pentax K-r
Pentax K-5
 
It also addresses processing issues for the following cameras:
 
Nikon D7000
Nikon COOLPIX P7000
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2
 
For more information on supported RAW formats, see http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3825.

Sixty camera and lens combinations have been added to the DxO Optics Modules library.

Phase One has posted Capture One 6.1 for download.
 
This is a service release improving quality and providing additional camera support.
 
The following issues are addressed:
 
• Fixed anissue where LCC files from older versions of Capture One could not be used.
 
• Improved OpenCL performance and stability in some situations.
 
• Improved Image Quality for Leica D-Lux5, Panasonic DMC-LX5, Canon 5D Mark II and Pentax K-5, K-r and Olumpus E5.
 
• Fixed a few issues related to Capture Pilot.
 
In addition the release contains fixes for a number of other issues.

The Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D and Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Review pages now have charts and visual comparisons with the other Canon EOS DSLRs.

From Okii Systems:
 
The new Okii Systems USB Follow Focus gives the photo and video enthusiast a compact yet powerful device that enhances the capabilities of HD video enabled Canon EOS Digital SLR cameras, including:
 
• EOS 5D Mark II
• EOS 1D Mark IV
• EOS 7D
• EOS 60D
• EOS 550D/Rebel T2i/Kiss X4
• EOS 500D/Rebel T1i/Kiss X3
 
Like Canon's EOS Utility, the USB Follow Focus uses Canon's USB protocol to allow control of a wide range of functions, but without the limitations and bulk of being tethered to a computer. The device is handheld, weighing under 5 oz. including batteries, and less than 3" in diameter.
 
The USB Follow Focus uses the autofocus motor in Canon USM lenses to control focus, even while recording video. This focus control also works in any Live View modes, which can be useful for photography. The nine other switches located around the central focus knob can be used to access important camera functions, such as recording start/stop, digital zoom, engaging autofocus, saving focus points, and adjusting certain camera settings.
 
A hard coat anodized aluminum enclosure protects the electronics while a 1/4"-20 mount on the back of the unit provides a way to attach the USB Follow Focus to rigs or other equipment. The buttons can also be swapped out, providing the user with a way to specify certain functions.
 
It is important that potential users understand how Canon's USB implementation has shaped and enabled the development of the Okii Systems USB Follow Focus. Certain characteristics of Canon's design make it perform quite differently than a mechanical follow focus, so it is recommended that you read the User Guide and the Canon USB Protocol article in the Technical section of the Okii website.
 
Included is a 30 day money back guarantee, which ensures that you can fully test out the USB Follow Focus with the type of film or photography work you do, along with all of your cameras and lenses.
 
An example of focus point use is shown in the following video, which displays the ability of the USB Follow Focus to return to four different focus points. Filmed with a 5D Mark II and EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens.
 

 
This video shows the responsiveness and potential speed (keep an eye on the focus distance window). Filmed with a 60D and EFS 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM lens.
 

 
For more information, visit okii.net. (thanks Mark)

J&R just started accepting Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM Fisheye Lens preorders - and the price is only $1,329.
 
I expect this lens to be hard to get, so this is a good chance to get your name at the front of a preorder list of a reputable retailer. Canon's "approximate retail price" is $1,400, so I like J&R's price.

February 10, 2011 - DxO Labs is pleased to announce the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v6.5.4 for Mac and Windows that adds RAW support for the Olympus E-PL2, Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 and for the Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 in both its Standard and Elite editions.
 
Further, 69 new DxO Optics Modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, covering numerous Canon, Nikon, Fuji, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony cameras.
 
DxO Optics Pro is available at B&H.

The RedRock Micro microRRS Adapter Clamp (press release) marries a Really Right Stuff quick release clamp and a Redrock rod clamp/base plate, allowing quick attachment of cameras and lenses to Redrock HDSLR Rigs.

I have added specifications and MTF charts (have you seen these yet? impressive) to the following review placeholder pages:
 
Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review
Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review
Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens Review
Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens Review

I have added a larger lens picture and a large closeup picture of the intriguing built-in extender to the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Review page.
 
Commentary added as well.

Nikon has just announced an array of COOLPIX cameras - links are to the Nikon press releases:
 
Nikon COOLPIX P300 / P500
Nikon COOLPIX S9100 / S6100 / S4100 / S3100 / S2500
Nikon COOLPIX L120 / L23

Sigma Announces Pricing and Availability for Feb 2011 Lenses (press release).

Tenba has announced the Vector Series Bags.
 
"VECTOR is a unique collection of prosumer bags with a striking monochrome design. Every zipper, clip, D-ring, rain cover, lens cloth and piece of fabric is custom-dyed in three of the latest trend colors (plus black) and made to match. Vector bags are extraordinarily lightweight, and constructed of water-resistant fabrics for protection in wet weather conditions. The materials and hardware used in each bag meet the “Crafted Without Compromise” level that has continued to be Tenba’s signature. All bags are available in Krypton Green, Oxygen Blue, Cadmium Red and Carbon Black."

While at least one in this list appears to be a re-announcement, Sigma has today announced four lenses:
 
Sigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 II DG HSM Lens
Sigma APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM Lens
Sigma APO 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Lens
Sigma 105m f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens

Adorama just began taking preorders for the new Canon cameras and lenses:
 
Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Digital SLR Camera
Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D Digital SLR Camera
Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens
 
Note that a soon-to-be-fixed glitch is preventing these new items from being ordered without an in-stock item included in the order. If you are having problems, add a GTCL3612 (Giottos Anti-Static Microfiber Cleaning Cloth) to the order - and have it removed by customer service later if you don't want it.

Canon has announced that it set a new patent record in 2010. (press release)
 
"This Marks The First Time A Japanese Company Exceeds 2,500 Patents In A Single Year"

Following is the list of the new Canon gear announced today. These links are to the review placeholder pages where product images, links to the Canon USA and Europe press releases and Amazon.com preorder links can be found.
 
Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Digital SLR Camera
Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D Digital SLR Camera
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens
Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens
Canon Speedlite 270EX II
Canon Speedlite 320EX
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens
 
What we get is a pair of more-advanced Rebel bodies (the T3i gets the Vari-Angle LCD), a tweaked kit lens, a formal announcement for the 500 II and 600 II lenses, a pair of flashes with some unique capabilities, and ... though it is not exactly the Canon EF 500mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens on my Canon Christmas list, the awesome-looking 200-400 f/4 L IS with a built-in 1.4x does indeed get us there in a very unique way - and adds zoom. I did not include a Canon EF 200-400 f/4 L IS USM Lens on my list, but it is also one of my most-wanted lenses.
 
Here are direct press release links:
 
Canon USA Rebel T3i, T3, 320EX, 270EX II and 18-55 IS II Press Release
Canon EOS Rebel 600D Digital SLR Camera - Europe
Canon EOS Rebel 1100D Digital SLR Camera - Europe
Canon Speedlite 320EX and 270EX II - Europe
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens - USA
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens - Europe
 
I will be adding more information to the site after getting some sleep (it's nearly 5:00 AM).

Canon Announces PowerShot SX230 HS, ELPH 500 HS, ELPH 300 HS and ELPH 100 HS Models (Press Release)

Canon Celebrates Production Of 60 Million EF Lenses (Press Release)

Canon USA has announced a PowerShot Instant rebate program.
 
Save up to $70 on nine models (with the S95 and the G12 noticeably absent). The rebates are available from February 6, 2011 through February 19, 2011.
 
B&H has the instant rebates in place. Note that the Canon SD1300 IS is only $109.99 shipped after the $70 rebate. Might be a good option for the young kids.

Canon 2x EF Extender III Review
 
"If you have read the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III Review, you will find the Canon 2x EF Extender III Review familiar. The 2x III is similar to the 1.4x III and these reviews were prepared simultaneously."

Nikon has posted their 3rd quarter 2011 financial results.
 
The Presentation Material PDF provides summary slides.

Sigma has dropped the price of the 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Lens by $300.00 - from $1,699.00 to $1,399.00. B&H has the new pricing in effect.

Sold out (at least temporarily): Hot deal: B&H has the Gitzo G1177M Ballhead in stock. After the $80 rebate (Visa cash card), the final shipped cost is an extremely low $29.90.
 
The Gitzo G1177M has been sold out everywhere - I don't expect these to last very long. According to what Adorama told me, there is no limit on quantities for this rebate.