Canon and Sony News, Deals, What's New

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results are now available on the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens page.

This is a compact, lightweight, sharp lens. Here are some comparisons.

Compared to the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II Lens

Compared to the Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens

Compared to the Sigma 16-28mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens

Compared to the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Lens

Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens from Lensrentals.

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Highlighting some just-arriving gear in the B&H Used Department:

Remember to use the B&H Payboo payment card to save the tax.

Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results, along with specs, measurements, and standard and varied product images, are now available on the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens page.

As I just said in the press release, this lens's predecessor, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens, is less than 4 years old and, remarkably, the #1 best seller at B&H — out of 1,782 mirrorless lenses.

Here are some image quality comparisons.

Compared to the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens

Compared to the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens

Compared to the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens

Compared to the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens

Many more image quality comparisons are available — create your own using the site's tools.

From a measurements and specifications perspective, here is the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II compared to the 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens. Here is the visual comparison (the version II lens is to the left):

Here is the rotated and extended with hoods version:

Support this site by ordering the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX

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This lens's predecessor, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens, is less than 4 years old and, remarkably, the #1 best seller mirrorless lens at B&H — out of 1,782 lenses.

Order the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens at B&H.

From Sigma Corporation of America:

SIGMA Announces 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art Lens, an Upgraded Follow-Up to its Popular Standard Zoom for Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

Ronkonkoma, NY – May 16, 2024 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens. This is the second generation of the highly successful SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. The new lens has undergone a significant evolution, including enhanced optical performance, AF speed and operability, while also achieving a more compact size than the original.

The advancement of optical design has shortened the total optical length, and the lens barrel has been made slimmer by thoroughly downsizing the zoom mechanism. In addition, the lens barrel has been downsized by placing buttons and switches directly on the lens barrel. The weight has been reduced by approximately 10% compared to the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. By driving the lightweight focus group with the high-thrust HLA, autofocus is significantly swifter than the original version.

6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 double-sided aspheric lenses are used. Aberrations are highly corrected through advanced optical design made possible by advanced basic technologies in both design and manufacturing, including the use of new glass materials and aspherical lenses with thin walls and high degrees of asphericity. In particular, sagittal coma flare is heavily corrected to achieve MTF characteristics surpassing those of the highly-acclaimed 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. The high level of flare resistance also results in point images, such as stars, at the periphery of the image being closer to ideal points.

A close-focusing distance of 6.7 inches (17cm) at the wide end at 1:2.7 magnification* adds to the versatility of this lens, and the addition of a click/de-click and lockable aperture ring, along with an additional AF-L button for vertical orientation still or video capture, are additional enhancements of this second-generation lens. The zoom lock switch, which disengages when zooming, is inherited from the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. Manual focus can be switched between Linear and Non-linear response (L-Mount only). A splash- and dust-resistant structure, plus water and oil-repellent coating on the front element, add to durability.
* close-focusing distance of 13.4 inches (34cm) with 1:4 magnification at 70mm

The new SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens builds on the success and popularity of the original 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, and offers an impressive upgrade with added features and performance in a more compact package that is perfect for working pros in both still and video applications. Offered in Sony E-mount and L-Mount, the lens will be available through authorized retailers in late May 2024 and will sell for $1,199.

Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras

A | Art
SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II

A classic, evolved.

• Rendering performance worthy of the flagship name
• Improved portability and expanded feature set
• A wealth of professional functions including high-speed autofocus

Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH878-05, FRONT CAP LCF-82 III, REAR CAP LCR II

Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount

Launch date: May 30, 2024

* The appearance and specifications of the products are subject to change.

* Sony E-mount lenses are developed, manufactured and sold in accordance with the E-mount specifications licensed under a license agreement with Sony Corporation.

* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.

#SIGMA #SIGMA2470mmF28IIArt #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtZoom #SIGMADGDN

The Art 24-70mm F2.8, evolved on all levels:

Rendering performance, functionality, and portability.

The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is SIGMA's flagship lens that has evolved significantly from the previous model by incorporating the most advanced technologies available to SIGMA from design to production. Compared to the previous SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has improved resolving power throughout the entire zoom range, and also benefits from functional enhancements such as the addition of an aperture ring and high-speed AF with a redesigned AF motor, HLA (High-response Linear Actuator). The lens is also approximately 7% smaller and 10% lighter. This 24-70mm F2.8 Art zoom is a versatile and high-performance tool that will help photographers and filmmakers unlock their creative potential.

[Key Features]

1. Rendering performance worthy of the flagship name

The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is the successor to the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, which is known for its high optical performance, and has further improved resolution throughout the zoom range. The lens has high sharpness throughout the entire image from its maximum aperture, even on high-resolution cameras. Focusing on enhancing its rendering performance, the brightness of F2.8 produces a large, beautiful bokeh effect, and allows users to experience the power of a flagship lens in all types of visual expression. In addition to its advanced close-up capability and resistance to flare and ghosting, the lens is designed to minimize focus breathing.

High optical performance across the entire image and zoom range

The optical design of the lens includes 6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 aspherical lens elements to thoroughly suppress various aberrations throughout the entire zoom range. In particular, sagittal coma flare has been well controlled to achieve consistently high resolution all the way to the periphery of the image. By also effectively correcting lateral chromatic aberration, high resolution, beautifully rendered images can be achieved, free from color fringing can be achieved.

Incorporating 5 aspherical lenses

The use of 5 high-precision aspherical lenses enables both high optical performance with minimal aberration correction and a compact optical design. The SIGMA's only manufacturing base, the Aizu factory’s ultra-high-precision aspherical molding technology makes it possible to produce the thin, highly polarized aspherical lenses that are essential for the construction of this lens. This has brought about a higher degree of freedom in optical design.

Excellent close-up capability

The lens has excellent close-up capability with a minimum focusing distance of 17cm / 6.7in. at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7. This is useful when composing close-up shots of a subject, or when shooting in tight spaces where it is difficult to get a good distance from the subject.

* Be extremely careful that the front lens element does not hit the subject when photographing. Remove the lens hood when photographing at the minimum focusing distance at the wide-angle end.

Designed to minimize flare and ghosting

Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, have been largely eliminated using advanced simulation technology, ensuring the lens renders rich, high-contrast results in all conditions. In addition, Nano Porous Coating and Super Multi-layer Coating have been applied to help suppress flare and ghosting to the utmost degree. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions.

Minimal focus breathing

The lens has been designed to suppress focus breathing. The change in angle-of-view due to focus shift across the entire zoom range is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus pulls when recording video.

2. Improved portability and expanded feature set

The body of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is approximately 7% smaller in size and 10% lighter in weight than the previous model, while improving usability by adding an aperture ring and two AFL buttons. Despite the reduction in size and added features, the lens maintains SIGMA’s renowned excellent build quality, with the uncompromisingly precise and robust construction expected of a professional photographic tool.

Highly portable lens body

While the number of lens elements used in its construction is the same as that of the previous model, the overall length has been shortened owing to an advanced optical design. In addition, the more efficient mechanical design has resulted in a highly portable lens body with a maximum diameter of 87.8mm / 3.5in., length of 120.2mm / 4.7in., and weight of 745g / 26.3oz.*

* These figures are for L-Mount.

Excellent build quality

Simultaneously focusing on reducing the size and weight of the lens body, the use of metal parts for the zoom extension unit and other parts, as well as the robust internal structure ensure rigidity during use, such as when operating the ring, pressing buttons, and carrying the lens. The design emphasizes the lens’ longevity and reliability as a tool, which cannot be achieved by solely pursuing a compact and lightweight body.

Equipped with an aperture ring

The lens is equipped with an aperture ring as well as an aperture ring click switch and an aperture ring lock switch, allowing for aperture operation suitable for various shooing situations.

Equipped with two AFL buttons

The lens is equipped with two AFL buttons*, to which a range of functions can be assigned via the menu on selected cameras, one more than the previous model. In addition to the side, the additional button has been positioned on the top to facilitate button operation when the camera is held in vertical orientation.

* Functions can be assigned on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used.

3. A wealth of functions including high-speed autofocus

In addition to high-speed AF with HLA (High-response Linear Actuator), the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has a full range of features including weather resistance such as a dust and splash resistant structure* and water and oil repellent coating, as well as a zoom lock switch. The lens delivers the best possible results in every shooting situation.

* The structure is designed to be dust and splash resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.

Incorporating a linear motor HLA

The lens incorporates a linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) for the AF actuator. The high output HLA makes the maximum drive speed more than three times faster than the previous model*, ensuring responsive AF shooting.

* Compared by the maximum drive speed of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art with that of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art (It is different from the actual time for AF to focus).

Dust and splash resistant structure and water and oil repellent coating

In addition to a dust and splash resistant structure, the front element of the lens features a water and oil repellent coating, allowing users to shoot without concerns even in harsh outdoor environments.

Equipped with a zoom lock switch at the wide end

The lens is equipped with a zoom lock switch that locks the lens at the wide end and prevents the barrel from extending unintentionally under its own weight. The lock can be released not only by the switch but also via zoom operation, allowing for flexible handling of even impromptu shooting.

Includes petal-type hood with lock

A dedicated petal-shaped hood is supplied. A locking mechanism is provided for secure attachment.

[ Additional Features ]

• Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (6 FLD, 2 SLD, 5 aspherical elements)
• Inner focus system
• Compatible with high-speed autofocus
• HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)
• Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction
  * Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections or auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model.
  * On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with "ON" or "OFF" in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to "ON" (AUTO).
• Supports DMF and AF+MF
• Compatible with AF assist (for Sony E-mount only)
• Nano Porous Coating
• Super Multi-Layer Coating
• Water- and Oil-Repellent Coating (front element)
• Aperture ring
• Aperture ring click switch
• Aperture ring lock switch
• AFL button (2 buttons)
  
* Function can be assigned on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used.
• Focus Mode switch
• Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only)
  * Function available on supported cameras only.
• Dust- and Splash-Resistant Structure
• Petal-type hood with lock LH875-05
• Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD- (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
• Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
• Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system
• 11-blade rounded diaphragm
• High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
• Mount Conversion Service available
• "Made in Aizu, Japan" craftsmanship

[ Key Specifications ]

The following specifications are for L-Mount.
Lens Construction: 19 elements in 15 groups
(6 FLD, 2 SLD, 5 aspherical elements)
Angle of view: 84.1 - 34.3°
Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum aperture: F22
Minimum focusing distance: 6.7 (W) - 13.4 (T) in. / 17 (W) -34 (T) cm
Maximum magnification ratio: 1:2.7 (W) - 1:4 (T)
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 3.5 x 4.7 in. / 87.8 x 120.2mm
Weight: 26.3 oz. / 745g

[ Accessories: Supplied ]

LENS HOOD LH878-05: 0085126 941406
FRONT CAP LCF-82 III: 0085126 930028
REAR CAP LCR II for L-Mount: 0085126 937256
REAR CAP LCR II for Sony E-mount: 0085126 929879

[ Accessories: Optional ]

SIGMA USB DOCK UD for L-Mount: 0085126 878696
SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 931834
SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 930974
SIGMA PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 93 00
SIGMA WR UV FILTER 82mm: 0085126 930714
SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 82mm: 0085126 930844

Orders

Order the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens at B&H.

Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:

• Lexar 128GB Professional 2000x UHS-II SDXC Memory Card – only $89.99 after $80.00 instant savings
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See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.

The new Apple iPads are in stock:

Apple 11" iPad Pro M4 Chip Standard Glass 256GB, Wi-Fi Only, Space Black

Apple 13" iPad Pro M4 Chip Standard Glass, 256GB, Wi-Fi Only, Space Black

Apple 11" iPad Air M2 Chip , Wi-Fi Only, Space Gray

Apple 13" iPad Air M2 Chip 128GB, Wi-Fi Only, Space Gray

The Ansel Adams Landscape Stamps announced last month are now available for purchase at USPS.com.

From Canon USA:

CANON DEVELOPS EOS R1 AS FIRST FLAGSHIP MODEL FOR EOS R SYSTEM

New Image Processing System Further Improves AF and Image Quality

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 15, 2024 - Canon U.S.A., Inc. today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc. announced today that it is currently developing the EOS R1, a full-frame mirrorless camera, as the first flagship model for the EOS R SYSTEM equipped with an RF mount and is aiming for a 2024 release.

The EOS R1 is a mirrorless camera geared toward professionals that brings together Canon’s cutting-edge technology and combines top-class performance with the strong durability and high reliability sought in a flagship model. This camera will dramatically improve¹ the performance of both still images and video and meet the high requirements of professionals on the frontlines of a wide range of fields including sports, news reporting, and video production.

This camera employs the newly developed image processor DIGIC Accelerator in addition to the pre-existing processor DIGIC X. The new image processing system, composed of these processors and a new CMOS sensor, enables large volumes of data to be processed at high speeds and delivers never-before-seen advancements in Auto Focus (AF) and other functions.

By combining the new image processing system and deep learning technology to an advanced degree, Canon has achieved high-speed and high-accuracy subject recognition. For example, subject tracking accuracy has been improved so that in team sporting events where multiple subjects intersect, the target subject can continually be tracked even if another player passes directly in front of them. In addition, the AF “Action Priority” function recognizes subject movement by rapidly analyzing the subject’s status. In moments during a sports game when it is difficult to predict what will happen next, this function automatically determines the player performing a certain action, such as shooting a ball, as the main subject and instantly shifts the AF frame, thereby helping to capture decisive moments of gameplay.

The combination of the new image processing system and deep learning technology will help to improve image quality. Canon implements the image noise reduction function, which has been previously developed and improved as part of the software for PCs, as a camera function to further improve image quality and contribute to user creativity.

Canon is working on field tests for this camera and will support capturing definitive and impactful moments at international sporting events to be held in the future.

Going forward, Canon will continue to expand the EOS R SYSTEM lineup of fascinating cameras and RF lenses, thereby continuing to meet the demands of a wide range of users and contribute to the development of photography and video culture.

¹ In comparison to EOS R3 (released in November 2021)

Image quality test results are now available on the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens page.

Covering a common set of general-purpose focal lengths, this lens has many comparisons available. I'll get you started.

Compared to the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens

Compared to the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens

Compared to the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens

Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens from Lensrentals.

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Sony Alpha 7 IV firmware update version 3.01 is available for download.

Firmware Version 3.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixed an issue where network connection may not be possible.
2. Improved operational stability.

Important: Read the notices, including "Updates should be installed in chronological order."

Get the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H.

Sony a7S III firmware update version 3.01 is available for download.

Firmware Version 3.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixes the following issues with the ISO value:
   The ISO value is displayed incorrectly when outputting a RAW video to a RAW-compatible device connected via an HDMI cable
   The upper and lower limit setting ranges are incorrect when the ISO value is set to Auto
2. Fixes an issue where the camera may not be able to connect to the network
3. Improves the operational stability of the camera

Important: Read the notices, including "After updating to this version, the camera settings will be reset to the default values."

Get the Sony a7S III at B&H.

Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:

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See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.

Did you browse the B&H Deals of the Week yet?

Just posted: Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens Review.

This is a great ultra-wide zoom lens option for APS-C, and it is coming to the RF mount later this year.

Please share.

Support this site by ordering the Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens from Lensrentals.

Through May 28th, save 15% on the Retrospective Travel Series at Think Tank Photo.

Don't forget that you'll get a free gift and free shipping when using this site's links for your purchase at Think Tank Photo ($50.00 minimum purchase required).

From Capture One:

With the release of Capture One 16.4.0 on May 14, 2024, we introduced Capture One Studio and Live for Studio, a desktop app and an iPad companion app for crews working in highly collaborative, studio-like environments.

Capture One 16.4.0 contains new features and improvements, like Client Viewers (Studio), AI Crop (Pro, Studio), Multiple Compare Variants (Studio), new Tokens (Studio), easier access to the Adjustments Clipboard, faster AI Masking, faster Sessions on macOS, Save Destination options when tethering, along with other Fujifilm and Sony tethering improvements.

Introducing Capture One Studio and Live for Studio

Capture One Studio is a new tier in our desktop product lineup. It includes all the features of Capture One Pro, introduces new Studio features, and integrates some features that were previously available for Capture One Enterprise users only.

Live for Studio is a new, free iPad companion app designed to complement Capture One Studio on macOS and enhance on-set collaboration. Share folders or albums from Capture One Studio and anyone can view, follow, rate, and color-tag images on an iPad. All on the same local network, no internet required.

Get the full details of this update in the release notes.

Get Capture One at B&H.