Canon, Nikon, and Sony News, Deals, What's New

Use coupon code THISTHAT (one use per customer) at Lensrentals to get 20% off orders of $250+ or 10% off everything else. Qualifying orders must arrive by 8/21.
 
Renting is a great option for trying new gear or for getting otherwise unaffordable gear to use for short periods of time.
 
Those having just received the new Canon EOS R5 may want to try one or more of the RF lenses.

Image quality test results have been added to the Canon RF 600mm F11 IS STM Lens page.
 
This is an interesting lens from numerous perspectives, but focal length per dollar (euro, pound, etc.) is one, and focal length per lb (kg) is another. Here is a comparison with Canon's other 600mm lens, both set to their widest apertures:
 
Canon RF 600mm F11 IS STM Lens vs. EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM Lens
 
At f/11, the RF 600 is already being impacted by the softening effects of diffraction. Another interesting comparison is between the same two lenses at f/11.
 
Canon RF 600mm vs. EF 600mm f/4L IS III Lens at f/11
 
The Canon RF 600mm F11 IS STM Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
Rent the Canon RF 600mm F11 IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.
 
Please share!

The Topaz Labs Sharpen AI 2.1 sale ends tomorrow, Friday, August 7. Only $59.99 (reg. $79.99).

Evil has found Canon USA. Bleeping Computer is reporting that Canon USA has suffered a significant ransomeware attack. Read the full report here.
 
Affected Canon USA websites include:
 
www.canonusa.com
www.canonbroadcast.com
b2cweb.usa.canon.com
canondv.com
canobeam.com
canoneos.com
bjc8200.com
canonhdec.com
bjc8500.com
usa.canon.com
imagerunner.com
multispot.com
canoncamerashop.com
canoncctv.com
canonhelp.com
bjc-8500.com
canonbroadcast.com
imageland.net
consumer.usa.canon.com
bjc-8200.com
bjc3000.com
downloadlibrary.usa.canon.com
www.cusa.canon.com
www.canondv.com

From Sigma:
 
Sigma Announces the 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art Lens
 
The Definitive Portrait Prime for the Mirrorless Age

• Fast-aperture full-frame prime lens that is surprisingly compact
• Dust and Splash-proof construction
• Completely new optical formula with 5 SLD and 1 Aspherical element
• Stepping motor optimized for contrast and phase detection autofocus
• Clicked and de-clicked aperture ring with Iris Ring Lock Switch
• Available in L-Mount and Sony E-Mount
• MSRP: $1199
• Anticipated Shipping Date: Late August 2020

Ronkonkoma, NY - August 6, 2020 - Redefining the portrait lens category, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a completely new design for full-frame mirrorless cameras, as the "DN" designation indicates. Announced today by Sigma Corporation, this is a complete reinvention of the definitive fast-aperture portrait prime that pairs class-leading optical performance with a compact, dust-and splash-proof design. Offered in both L-Mount and Sony E-Mount, this lens features a completely new optical formula that includes five Special Low Dispersion Elements and one aspherical element for exceptional edge-to-edge image sharpness. This new optical formula also thoroughly corrects aberrations, resulting in visually pleasing images with no color bleed, even at maximum aperture. Plus, the 11-blade rounded diaphragm ensures smooth, attractive bokeh. The 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is handcrafted to the most exacting optical and mechanical tolerances in Sigma's Aizu, Japan production facility.
 
"Briefly put, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art pairs large-aperture, professional-caliber optical performance with a lightweight, sturdy, and compact body, a combination which has long been difficult to achieve," reports Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of Sigma Corporation of America. "This vision is finally realized with the new 85mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens."
 
A smaller focusing lens is paired with the stepping motor, which is optimized for both phase detection and contrast detection autofocus, allowing for this lens to be notably smaller than the 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art lens — over an inch shorter and more than a pound lighter than the previous version — while achieving a higher degree of edge-to-edge sharpness from F1.4 and through the entire aperture range.
 
The Sigma Art line has been consistently redefining both imaging excellence and pleasing in-the-hand experience, and this new lens continues that legacy. Dust and splash-proof design, aluminum and TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) construction, a brass bayonet, plus well-damped switches and rings demonstrate the level of build quality that the Art name represents. Additional benefits include an aperture ring that allows for clicked and de-clicked operation, a programmable AFL button on the lens barrel, and a new Iris Ring Lock Switch that prevents unintended movement of the aperture ring during image capture.
 
This combination of imaging characteristics, build quality, and compact size for its focal length and aperture combine to make this the class-defining portrait lens for full-frame mirrorless camera systems.
 
Order the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens from B&H. or Adorama.
 

B&H has a 9-rated used Really Right Stuff BH-55 Ball Head with Full-Size Lever-Release Clamp (awesome head) available for only $366.50. Compare at $489.00 new. Act fast – this head is not likely to last long.
 
Check out the B&H used department for many other great deals.

Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results have been added to the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens page.
 
This is a top-selling lens. Our review of the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens was interrupted by the new Canon gear arrival, but the test results are very helpful in telling this lens's story.
 
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens vs. Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM Lens
 
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens vs. Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Lens
 
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens vs. Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art Lens
 
The Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
Rent the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens from Lensrentals.
 
Please share!

Check out today's B&H Deal Zone Deals for big savings on the Tascam DR-10L Micro Portable Audio Recorder with Lavalier Microphone (White), G-Technology G-DRIVE / G-RAID (4 options), & more!

Check out the Updated Apple iMac and iMac Pro at B&H
 
Learn more at B&H Explora.

Canon EOS R firmware version 1.7.0 — Download
 
Canon EOS Ra firmware version 1.5.0 — Download
 
Firmware Version 1.7.0 and 1.5.0 incorporate the following enhancements:
 
1. Support has been added for the following lenses:

• RF 600mm F11 IS STM
• RF 800mm F11 IS STM
• Extender RF 1.4x
• Extender RF 2x

2. The operation of playing back through the multi-function bar has been improved (please refer to the latest version of the camera's Instruction Manual that is released with the firmware update).
 
3. Support for the Battery Pack LP-E6NH has been added.
 
Canon EOS RP firmware version 1.5.0 — Download
 
Firmware Version 1.5.0 incorporates the following enhancements:
 
Support has been added for the following lenses:

• RF 600mm F11 IS STM
• RF 800mm F11 IS STM
• Extender RF 1.4x
• Extender RF 2x

 
Lens firmware updates incorporate the following enhancement:
 
The lens-based image stabilizer function works together with the camera-based image stabilizer function to achieve greater image stabilization effects with EOS R5/EOS R6.
 
Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens — Firmware version 1.0.7
 
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens — Firmware version 1.0.7
 
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens — Firmware version 2.0.6
 
Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens — Firmware version 2.0.4
 
Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens — Firmware version 1.0.6
 
Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens — Firmware version 1.0.8
 
Canon RF 35mm f/1.8mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro Lens — Firmware version 2.0.2
 
 
The following lens firmware updates incorporate the following enhancement:
 
Focusing performance has been improved when using the Servo AF continuous shooting mode.
 
Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens — Firmware version 1.1.3
 
Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM Lens — Firmware version 2.0.2

I recommend reading this one — Breakthrough always supports its claims. Also, be sure to compare prices.
 
From Breakthrough Filters:
 
“Breakthrough R” Drop-In Filter System for Canon R-series cameras.
 
San Francisco, California – Breakthrough Filters today unveiled a new drop-in filter system called “Breakthrough R”, comprising 27 filters designed specially for Canon R-series cameras, such as the Canon R5 and R6. Every filter manufactured by Breakthrough Filters is now available as a “R” drop-in filter, including a number of all-new filters such as the world's first Variable ND which covers 2 to 11-stops, without an "X Pattern", Black & White Polarizers and Infrared.
 

 
Design
 
“Breakthrough R” Drop-In Filters feature a rugged, weather-sealed construction designed to withstand the elements with dust and water resistance. And to make identifying filters fast and easy, each filter is color coded. Multiple “Breakthrough R” filters are easily stored in an all-new compact travel friendly cases that fits up to 5 filters. And an improved, larger adjustment wheel makes fine tuning polarization smoother than before.
 

 
Largest Selection of Drop-In Filters
 
The new “Breakthrough R” Drop-In filter system has a wide range of 27 filters to choose from – Neutral Density, Polarizers, Dark CPLs, Infrared, Night Sky, VNDs and Black and White Polarizers.
 

 
X4 CPL Performance: Highest Transmission, Lowest Color Cast
 
Performance is critical to pros, whether they’re shooting detailed landscape images or 8K video. The X4 CPL is the most color neutral polarizer, with an unrivaled light transmission of 50.24%.
 

 
When compared to industry leading filter manufacturers of both circular and drop-in polarizers, the X4 CPL R ranks number one for light transmission and color cast performance, followed only by the Canon Drop-In CPL at 43.06%.
 
The result of a higher light transmission is faster shutter speeds, which can translate into sharper images and the ability to use a lower ISO when shooting video.
 
X4 Neutral Density Performance: Sharpest and Most Color Neutral ND Filters
 
Canon does not currently offer solid ND drop-in filters, however, optical performance of the X4 ND exceeds industry leading manufacturers such as Singh-Ray, B+W, Lee and many others. The X4 ND has the most neutral color transmission throughout the visible range and well into infrared.
 

 
X4 ND R filters are available individually or as part of a set and come in 3, 6, 10, 15 and 20-stop densities.
 
Dark CPLs, Night Sky and Infrared
 
Breakthrough Filters is announcing a number of other “Breakthrough R” filters available for pre-order, including Dark CPL R in 3, 6 or 10-stop densities. The Night Sky R drop-in filter eliminates artificial light pollution between 570 and 610 nanometers within the visible light spectrum and the Infrared 720 R drop-in Infrared filter cuts visible light up to 720 nanometers.
 
Breakthrough VND-R: World's Largest Density Range
 
Breakthrough Filters is announcing a VND filter system with the largest density range of 2 to 16-stops, which comprises two filters: VND-R and Dark VND-R.
 
The VND-R is the first Variable ND to feature 2 to 11-stops in one filter – without the "X Pattern". The effective density range of the Dark VND-R is 10-16-stops, with one stop of overlap between VNDs.
 
To limit the negative consequences of the "X Pattern" caused by cross-polarization, brands of Variable ND filters make numerous VND filters, each with a small density range, thereby requiring numerous VNDs to cover a large density range.
 
For the first time, the VND-R Filter System allows photographers and filmmakers to make exposure changes faster and more conveniently without the need to constantly change filters.
 
Comparing color and transmission performance of the many Variable ND filters on the market, the Canon Drop-In VND performs impressively, easily outperforming every Variable ND on the market for color cast and overall transmission performance, ranking second only to the Breakthrough VND-R.
 
Even on super-wide lenses such as the Canon 11-24mm, Sigma 12-24mm, Tamron 15-35mm, the VND-R and Dark VND-R perform exceptionally well without any visible "X Pattern".
 
The VND-R and Dark VND-R are available for pre-order individually or as a "VND-R Set".
 
Black & White Polarizers
 
In Black & White photography a circular polarizer is often stacked with colored filters, however with the all-new Black & White Polarizers the photographer is able to achieve the same result with a single filter.
 
Yellow, Red, Orange and Green Polarizers can be purchased individually, or bought as a set, and is available for pre-order.
 
Pricing and Availability

• “Breakthrough R” drop-in filters are available to pre-order and will be available by visiting www.breakthroughfilters.com or local retail stores.
• “Breakthrough R” filters will be available in numerous filter types including Polarizers, Neutral Density, Dark CPLs, Variable NDs, Night Sky, Infrared and Clear.
• The VND-R has the largest density range of any Variable ND filter of 2 to 16-stops, without the "X Pattern".
• Photographers with questions about “Breakthrough R” drop-in filters or which filter is right for them can contact a specialist at +1 877-762-8427 or start a chat directly from the Breakthrough Filters website.
• Anyone who purchases online from Breakthrough Filters will receive free home delivery and the option to trade in their current Canon Drop-In filters for credit towards the purchase of any “Breakthrough R” filters.

 
If you don't already have a Canon Drop-In Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R, order it now from B&H | Adorama | Amazon
 
Watch for this: Breakthrough Photography will soon be introducing a weather sealed EF to RF Drop-In Filter Mount Adapter.
 

From image.canon:
 
Important user update concerning image.canon
 
August 4, 2020
 
Thank you for using image.canon.
 
On July 30, 2020, we identified an issue involving the 10GB long-term storage on image.canon. In order to conduct further investigation, we temporarily suspended both the mobile application and web browser service of image.canon. After the investigation, we identified that some of the photo and video image files saved in the 10GB long-term storage prior to June 16, 2020 9:00am (JST) were lost. We confirmed that the still image thumbnails of the affected files were not affected, and there was no leak of image data. After having resolved the issue that resulted in the loss of the photo and video image files, we resumed the image.canon service as of August 4, 2020.
 
Currently, the still image thumbnails of these lost image files can be viewed but not downloaded or transferred. If a user tries to download or transfer a still image thumbnail file, an error message may be received. We are currently exploring technical counter measures.
 
Automatic transfer of still image and video files from EOS R5 and R6 mirrorless cameras, as well as the instant uploads from compatible Canon cameras is also available.
 
Canon contact details can be found here: image.canon/st/supported-countries.html.
 
We apologize for any inconvenience.
 
 
Few will find the retention of the thumbnails of value. The lesson here is that you should not trust your files to any single storage service or device. While some online storage services are excellent, your files should be in at least one other location. I use external hard drives, primarily WD brand, stored in multiple physical locations, for this need.

The Canon EOS R5 Review and Canon EOS R6 Review are works in progress with the latest updates being the AF section and the addition of frame rate examples. Scroll down one of the two reviews (same frame rate, same AF technology, same content in each) until a horseback riding image shows in the performance section.
 
These cameras are very impressive performers. The sample image included in this post shows the eye-tracking AF point following the galloping horse rider near the edge of the frame during a 20 fps capture.

From Tamron:
 
Tamron Announces the Development of the World’s Smallest and Lightest¹ Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sony E-mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras
 
70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (Model A047)
 
August 3, 2020, Commack, NY - Tamron announces the development of a new telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, the 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (Model A047). The lens is planned to launch in Fall 2020.
 
¹ Among 300mm-capable telephoto zoom lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras (As of July, 2020: Tamron)
 
While Tamron has manufactured many popular telephoto zoom lenses that extend to 300mm for DSLR cameras, the new 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 is the first model designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Developed with the concept of bringing the joy of easy telephoto shooting to photographers everywhere, it’s the world’s smallest and lightest 70-300mm zoom lens at 5.8 in., 19.2 oz. and maximum diameter of 77mm, and delivers exceptional image quality.
 
Its Moisture-Resistant Construction provides greater protection when shooting outdoors and the lens shares the 67mm filter diameter common to all members of Tamron’s lens series for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens also takes full advantage of in-camera features, including Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF that support a fantastic shooting experience. The 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 is a highly practical lens that makes the excitement of telephoto shooting easier than ever before across a diverse range of shooting styles including landscapes, sports and other athletic events, wildlife, portraits, and more.
 
Main features

• The world’s smallest and lightest size brings you the joy of easy telephoto shooting.
• Superb optical performance with high image quality and aberration correction.
• AF drive system powered by Tamron’s RXD stepping motor unit provides high-speed, high-precision and quiet operation.
• Moisture-Resistant Construction contributes to a comfortable, user-friendly photographic experience.

Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.

B&H has the Canon ET-88B Lens Hood for the Canon RF 600mm F11 IS STM Lens in stock.

Resolution test results have been added to the Canon EOS R5 Review page.
 
Resolution test results have been added to the Canon EOS R6 Review page.
 
These cameras are very sharp — I think you will like these results.
 
The R5 and R6 results were processed using Canon Digital Photo Professional (DPP) and the same low contrast, low sharpness settings (Neutral Picture Style, Sharpness = 1) as all of the other Canon camera test results included in the comparison tool. Use these results to compare the camera's resolution and sharpness to any other camera tested with the same lens using the same aperture setting (use f/5.6). I'll get your comparisons started:
 
Canon EOS R5 vs. Canon EOS 5Ds R
 
Canon EOS R5 vs. Canon EOS 5Ds
 
Canon EOS R5 vs. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
 
Canon EOS R5 vs. Canon EOS R
 
Canon EOS R5 vs. Canon EOS R6
 
Canon EOS R6 vs. Canon EOS R
 
Canon EOS R6 vs. Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
 
Canon EOS R6 vs. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
 
 
Time to order your Canon EOS R5:
 
Body: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
w/ RF 24-105 L: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA
 
 
Time to order your Canon EOS R6:
 
Body: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
w/ RF 24-105 STM: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
w/ RF 24-105 L: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA
 

Canon and Sony have both introduced new instant savings promotions today. The best time to buy new Canon and Sony gear is when instant savings is available, and made obvious in this round is that promotions (especially on lenses) can change.
 
Canon R-series camera owners (and those planning to be an R-owner) should pay special attention to the four RF lenses included in this promotion.

Model	Rebate Amount
Canon EOS-1D X Mark II	$1,500.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 5Ds	$200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV	$150.00 - $200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 6D Mark II	$200.00 - $400.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 7D Mark II	$250.00 - $450.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 90D	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 80D	$100.00 - $550.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS 77D	Up to $600.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D	$100.00 - $350.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel T6 / 1300D	$150.00 - $200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D	$100.00 - $200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS R	$200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EOS M50	$50.00 - $120.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Lens	$220.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM Lens	$300.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM Lens	$300.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens	$280.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Lens	$50.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM Lens	$50.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM Lens	$20.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM Lens	$50.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens	$70.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens	$200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon RF 35mm F1.8 IS STM Macro Lens	$50.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon

Model	Rebate Amount
Sony a7R IV	$300.00 - $600.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony a7R III	$300.00 - $600.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony a7R II	$400.00 - $600.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony a7 III	$100.00 - $300.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens	$200.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS Lens	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT Flash	$100.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash	$50.00	B&H | Adorama | Amazon

Good news is that B&H is now indicating that the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens will arrive Aug 28th. This lens was formerly expected in September.
 
Order the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens at: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

These should be sold out fast: Canon USA Store has the Canon EOS R5 in stock.

Canon has released new versions of its Digital Photo Professional, EOS Utility Picture Style Editor, and EOS Utility software.
 
Changes for Digital Photo Professional 4.12.60:

• Supports EOS R5, EOS R6.
• Enhances depth compositing function.
• Supports clipping & saving any range of a RAW movie.
• Supports "Viewing and saving RAW images" : "Prioritize speed" mode (Applicable images: EOS-1D X Mark III, EOS R5, and EOS R6 images).

Download: Canon DPP 4.12.60, EOS Utility 3.12.30, and Picture Style Editor 1.24.30