Canon News (Page 13)
Canon has released new versions of Digital Photo Professional and the Neural network tools.
Changes for Digital Photo Professional 4.18.10:
- Supports the expansion of the area where Neural network Image Processing Tool is provided. No functionality changes.
To install the updates, select "Check for updates" on the application's Help menu. Alternatively, download DPP 4.18.0.
Also released:
- Neural network Upscaling Tool 1.0.10 (We have expanded the area where we offer this application. No functionality changes.)
- Neural network Image Processing Tool 1.2.10 (We have expanded the area where we offer this application. No functionality changes. Neural network Lens Optimizer now supports the RF28mm F2.8 STM.)
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From Rode:
MacOS Sonoma and How It Impacts RØDE Products
Released 14 Sep 2023
Apple recently announced its latest major MacOS update, Sonoma. This is currently in beta and will most likely be rolled out in mid-late 2023.
A limitation has been identified in Intel-based Mac devices running Sonoma that affects compatibility with some MFi-certified USB audio devices (note: this does not includes M1 and M2 Macs).
MFi stands for “Made for iOS" and is a certification that denotes that an accessory has been approved by Apple to be used with its products. Many RØDE products are MFi-certified and will be affected by this limitation (along with audio devices from a wide range of other manufacturers). This causes compatibility issues and will likely mean you cannot use your RØDE product with your device that is running MacOS Sonoma.
This includes the following RØDE products:
AI-Micro
NT-USB+
PodMic USB
VideoMic GO II
VideoMic NTG
Wireless GO II
Wireless ME
Wireless PRO
RØDECaster Pro II (note: this affects USB 2 only)
RØDECaster Duo (note: this affects USB 2 only)
This limitation has been present in all beta versions of MacOS Sonoma, including the current “release candidate” version, and is likely going to be present in the public release.
RØDE has escalated this issue to Apple and we are waiting for further information on when it will be addressed. Until then, we recommend you do not update to MacOS Sonoma if you wish to continue using your RØDE product.
If you have any questions, contact our friendly customer service team at info@rode.com and we will be happy to help.
From Tamron Americas:
TAMRON announces 2nd-generation 70-180mm F2.8 zoom with Vibration Compensation and TAMRON Lens Utility™ compatibility
Class-leading compact and lightweight1 telephoto zoom for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless
September 13, 2023, Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065), a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras on October 12, 2023, at $1299 USD / $1699 CAD.
The 70-180mm F2.8 G2 marks the further evolution of the 1st-generation model that earned high acclaim in the marketplace and incorporates several enhancements. Leading the list of improvements of the new G2 lens is the incorporation of TAMRON’s proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism. The lens maintains the maneuverability of class-leading compact size and weight1 while enabling shooting with greater stability.
The optical design has been revamped from the 1st-generation 70-180mm F2.8 and achieves uncompromising high image quality across the entire zoom range. TAMRON also shortened the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) at the wide end to 0.3m (11.8in) compared to the 1st-generation 0.85m (33.5in), enabling users to enjoy unique photographic expressions distinctive to the lens. Additionally, the new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom features TAMRON’s renowned VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism enabling high-speed, high-precision auto-focusing that performs well whether shooting stills or video. The new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom also supports the dedicated TAMRON Lens Utility™ and TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™ apps that were developed in-house by TAMRON. The software can be used to customize functions based on various shooting styles for still photography and video. The new lens design improves operability and provides scratch resistance. This single lens combines profound maneuverability and practicality that is worthy of the 2nd-generation G2 badge and will deliver shooting experiences that make a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens even more enjoyable.
1 Among full-frame compatible fast-aperture F2.8 telephoto zoom lenses equipped with Vibration Compensation (As of August 2023: TAMRON)
Product features:
1. Even with VC image stabilization, the lens is just 156.5mm (6.2in) long and weighs only 855g (30.2oz)
As with the 1st-generation, the new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 embodies the aggressive pursuit of compact size and reduced weight. TAMRON achieved a class-leading compact size and lightweight design while still providing a constant F2.8 aperture, 180mm telephoto reach and VC. The filter size is f67mm, maximum diameter is f83mm and the length at the 70mm focal length is 156.5mm (6.2in). The total weight is just 855g (30.2oz). The new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom offers outstanding maneuverability and is well-balanced on a camera body. Add it all together and you have a zoom lens that puts the enjoyment of handheld fast-aperture telephoto zoom shooting within easy reach.
2. Revamped optical design delivers truly superb performance at all focal lengths
The optical construction of the new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom comprises 20 elements in 15 groups. The design has been completely reworked and features a generous and effective arrangement of special lens elements, including one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion), one hybrid aspherical lens element, three LD (Low Dispersion) and two GM (Glass Molded aspherical) lens elements. These combine to efficiently control chromatic aberration and other artifacts and deliver high resolution without compromise throughout the entire zoom range. BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) Coating is used to suppress ghosting and flare, ensuring that fine subject detail is captured even in backlit situations, and delivering stunning clarity and contrast. Another feature everyone enjoys is the beautiful, soft bokeh that only the fast F2.8 aperture can provide.
3. VXD provides high-speed and high-precision AF with vastly improved subject tracking
The new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom is equipped with a VXD linear motor focus mechanism that was first used in the 1st-generation model. Tracking performance when following moving subjects such as sports action and vehicles has received a further boost while maintaining TAMRON’s highest-ever level of high-speed, high-precision autofocus. The enhanced performance ensures users won’t miss decisive moments whether shooting stills or video. The linear motor also suppresses vibrations and noise during AF more effectively than conventional drive systems, making it ideal for shooting both still photos and video in environments that demand quietness.
4. Equipped with TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism
The new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom is equipped with TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism. VC effectively suppresses camera shake that tends to occur when shooting at the telephoto end, when panning to capture moving objects, or during close-focusing, thereby enabling stable handheld shooting. It also suppresses camera shake that often occurs when shooting handheld under low-light conditions such as dimly lit interiors and night landscapes, vastly expanding the freedom of shooting without a tripod. Moreover, at focal lengths up to 100mm, artificial intelligence (AI) technology provides vibration compensation with videography in mind.
5. Close MOD of 0.3m (11.8in) at 70mm and 0.85m (33.5in) at 180mm
By optimizing the optical design, TAMRON has reduced the MOD from the 0.85m (33.5in) in the 1st-generation, to 0.3m (11.8in) in the new model. Users can now get a step closer to subjects and make the most of shooting with beautifully soft bokeh effects. In addition, with an outstanding maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.6, users can enjoy distinctive and powerful composition unique to the lens.
6. Proprietary software tool TAMRON Lens Utility for lens function customization
7. Additional features for greater convenience
8. User-friendly features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)
9. Compatible with many camera-specific features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF
10. 67mm filter size, same as most other TAMRON lenses for mirrorless cameras
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens from B&H.
* Length is the distance from the front end of the lens to the lens mount face.
** The circular diaphragm stays almost perfectly circular up to two stops down from maximum aperture.
Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.
This product is developed, manufactured, and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.
Sony released the Sony 1920GB and 960GB CFexpress Type B TOUGH Memory Cards today. Order them at B&H.
The minimum goal was seemingly simple. Capture one great (to my eyes) photo of a dall sheep ram in Alaska, and I allocated eight days to accomplish that goal.
Dall sheep are usually found high in mountains, where accessibility becomes a challenge. This challenge was furthered by the weather, and primarily rain and snow prevented climbing into sheep altitudes for five of those eight days.
Fortunately, the success enjoyed on those three good days ranged from good on the first ascent to outstanding on the last. Ironically, weather, snow specifically, was part of the reason for the incredible photo opportunities on that last ascent. In this case, a snowstorm creates a clean background, while brighter clouds behind the camera created a strong, yet soft, light.
This huge dall sheep ram surveyed its environment as it walked over the alpine ridge, with continuous shooting providing a full range of head positions, including this direct glance.
The Canon EOS R5 and RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens got the call for this outing. The R5 was chosen for its high resolution, AF performance, and ease of use, and the RF 100-500 was selected for the optimal focal length range, including 100mm for environmental portraits and 500mm for tighter framing or distant subjects, and outstanding sharpness over the range, backed up by an optimal image stabilization system. The relatively compact size of this combination proved ideal for the climb.
I expected the sheep eyes on white hair to be an easy eye detection target for the R5, but the camera sometimes preferred the round black nostrils over the eyes when the sheep was facing the camera. Still, the eyes are sharp in an extremely high percentage of the sheep images, impressive performance.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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From Canon USA:
Canon Announces the Company’s First Set of RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses
MELVILLE, N.Y., September 12, 2023 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the introduction of the company’s first RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses for the Cinema EOS System. The new lenses combine high optical performance for 4K and 8K shooting, cinema-style operability, and RF mount communications. The first set of seven RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses is only the beginning. Canon plans to swiftly expand the lineup of RF-mount-compatible video production equipment to meet the needs of professional video production of such content as movies, TV, and commercials.
The seven Canon CN-R lenses, with focal lengths and T stops of 14mm T3.1, 20mm T1.5, 24mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 50mm T1.3, 85mm T1.3, and 135mm T2.2, are compatible with the two existing RF-Mount Canon Cinema Cameras, the EOS C70 and EOS R5 C. These lenses will allow for RF mount protocol transmission, and just like the EF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses, operators can control magnification, chromatic aberration correction, peripheral light correction, and a dual-pixel focus guide via camera body operations. In addition, the new lenses also feature lens distortion correction. These features support efficient video production during on-location recording and post-production workflow.
The new lenses are able to achieve high optical performance suitable for use with 4K and 8K cameras by optimally positioning large-diameter aspherical lens elements and lens elements with anomalous dispersion glass. Their compatibility with the full-frame large-format sensor, bright T stop values1, and 11-blade iris helps produce a shallow depth of field for subjects, natural round blurring, and soft image expressions. In addition, unified Cinema EOS color balance throughout the series helps provide consistent color, even when changing lenses.
Designed with an ideal level of ring torque, the new lenses allow for the precise and smooth adjustments often needed during cinema productions. Thanks to a unified design across the series, including the gear position of the operation ring, the diameter of the lens, and the rotation angle (operation angle), lenses can be effortlessly swapped in and out without the need to adjust matte boxes or external focus accessories for each lens. A new coarse surface near the mount provides a comfortable and ergonomic fit in the user’s hand, allowing the lens to be held securely without gripping the operation ring when attaching and detaching different lenses.
Pricing and Availability
The seven new Canon RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses estimated retail pricing and scheduled availability* are as follows:
Product /Pricing*/Availability*
CN-R14mm T3.1 L F $4,220.00 Late February 2024
CN-R20mm T1.5 L F $4,220.00 Late March 2024
CN-R24mm T1.5 L F $4,220.00 Late January 2024
CN-R35mm T1.5 L F $3,950.00 Late January 2024
CN-R50mm T1.3 L F $3,950.00 Late January 2024
CN-R85mm T1.3 L F $3,950.00 Late January 2024
CN-R135mm T2.2 L F $3,950.00 Late April 2024
Orders
Order the Canon RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses at B&H
1 The brightness of a cinema lens is generally expressed as a T value, which is obtained by additionally reflecting the transmittance of the glass to the F value.
*Availability, specifications, and prices are subject to change without notice. Prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
From Canon USA:
Canon Announces CR-N100 4K PTZ Camera and Flagship RC-IP1000 Remote Camera Controller
MELVILLE, N.Y., September 12, 2023 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the CR-N100 4K PTZ camera. The camera is designed for indoor use-cases and brings the excellent image quality and performance that Canon PTZ cameras are known for at a lower price point. Canon is also introducing the RC-IP1000, a high-end remote camera controller designed for professional systems. As a free download, Canon will also release the Multi-Camera Management Application that streamlines the configuration and management of supported Canon PTZ, professional video, and cinema cameras.
Canon CR-N100 4K PTZ Camera and Multi-Camera Management Application
As online meetings, lectures, live events, and seminars become increasingly commonplace, there is a growing need for livestreaming and video recording technology. The CR-N100 camera provides excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and its compacti size allows for easy installation in spaces such as meeting rooms and classrooms. With the addition of the CR-N100 to Canon’s lineup of remote cameras, customers now have greater choices of products that support a wide range of uses, from professional video production to video content use by markets such as corporate, local governments, house of worship, and educational institutions.
The CR-N100 showcases key features that leverage Canon’s history of professional camera technology development, including a 1/2.3” CMOS sensor and a DIGIC DV6 image processor platform that helps to produce 4K/30P high-image-quality video capture. In addition, the camera is equipped with a 20x optical zoom lens with a focal length of 29.3mm?601mmii, supporting image capture ranging from wide-angle to telephoto scenarios. The camera also includes four “scene modes”—Portrait, Sports, Low-light, and Spotlight—which users can choose to create their content based on the subject.
Users can build a complete, versatile production environment thanks to the CR-N100’s support for a variety of video interfaces and IP streaming protocols. The CR-N100 supports NDI|HXiii for high-quality – low latency video and control, SRTiv for secure high-quality video streaming over public networks, and RTP/RTSP/RTMP(s) for live streaming over popular social networks. The CR-N100 also supports Canon’s XC protocol for easy integration into new and existing Canon production environments. The CR-N100 also supports HDMI and the USB Video Class (UVC) transmission standard. UVC allows the CR-N100 to be used as a camera for web conference systems simply by connecting it to a PC via USB.
To help with the initial configuration of supported Canon PTZ, professional video, and cinema cameras, Canon is also releasing the Multi-Camera Management Application (MCMA). MCMA enables users to batch-configure initial camera settings as well as manage cameras, making it ideal for corporate, education, and events that require multi-camera environments, such as live streaming of university lectures and live event broadcasting.
With the Multi-Camera Management Application (MCMA), up to 200 individual camera units can be managed for use in large-scale camera systems. The MCMA streamlines the registration of usernames, passwords, and IP addresses to a camera and the registration of cameras to the RC-IP1000 by executing these procedures all at once, instead of individually. This allows for rapid initial configuration of large-scale systems with minimal workload. What’s more, the status of all connected cameras can be viewed in a convenient list that enables easier execution of operations such as updating firmware, restarting, and initialization.
Canon RC-IP1000 Remote Camera Controller
The Canon RC-IP1000 is a high-end controller that provides multiple functions and easy operation required for professional remote video production workflows, meeting the needs of various environments, including broadcast, house of worship, and live event streaming. The RC-IP1000 was designed with ease-of-use in mind and features direct functional buttons and dials ideally positioned and angled for simple operation, as well as an easily visible 7” touch-panel. The controller supports both IP and serial control, and can remotely perform Pan, Tilt, and Zoom (PTZ) movements, and the user can configure and change settings, including focus, exposure, and image settings. The RC-IP1000 is compatible with popular broadcast industry 12G-SDI input for 4K/60P, as well as visual input via IP and HDMI video output. The touch panel can display live video of cameras in single, 2x2, and 3x3 page layouts from cameras via IP, enabling simultaneous operation of multiple camera units.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon CR-N100 4K PTZ Camera is scheduled to be available in early October for an estimated retail price of $1999.00*.
The Canon RC-P1000 Remote Camera Controller is scheduled to be available in mid-December, and the estimated retail price is still to be determined*.
The Multi-Camera Management Application is scheduled to be available in mid-November as a free-of-charge download*.
Orders
Order the Canon CR-N100 4K PTZ Camera and RC-IP1000 Remote Camera Controller at B&H
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
i Device dimensions: 154 mm (W) x 164 mm (D) x 178 mm (H)
ii 35 mm film equivalent
iii A protocol that supports live-video-operation workflows using IP networks. Developed by U.S.-based NewTek, Inc. NDI is a registered trademark of NewTek, Inc in the U.S. and other countries and regions.
iv Secure Reliable Transport. An open-source video transmission protocol developed by Haivision and supported by the SRT Alliance.
*Availability, specifications, and prices are subject to change without notice. Prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
Learn more about the just-released Lowepro Pro Trekker BP AW II 43L Gray Backpack at B&H.
From ProGrade Digital:
PROGRADE DIGITAL ANNOUNCES 3rd GENERATION CFEXPRESS 4.0 TYPE B 1.3TB MEMORY CARD
The CFexpress 4.0 1.3TB Cobalt Memory Card Provides the Optimal Capacity for RAW Cinema Level Video Shooting Applications with New Higher Performance Read/Write Speed Capability
San Jose, CA September 5, 2023, 8:00 am ET — ProGrade Digital, Inc., founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces the 3rd generation of its CFexpress™ Type B Cobalt-class memory card in a new 1.3TB capacity. This new generation features the same industry-leading quality of ProGrade current 2nd generation 325GB and 650GB capacity cards, but now leverages PCIe Gen 4 interconnect with NVMe 1.4c host controller interface. ProGrade Digital’s 3rd generation CFexpress Cobalt cards are fully compliant with the just released CFexpress 4.0 specification, and provide read speeds of up to 3,400MB/s, burst write speeds of up to 3,000MB/s, and sustained write speeds of up to 2,800MB/s – ideally suited for the highest-resolution cinema grade video capture applications. As in past Cobalt-class memory card generations, the highest endurance and reliability memory technology is utilized – ensuring years of trouble-free, high performance capture.
“The introduction of our 3rd generation CFexpress Cobalt card at the 1.3TB capacity point provides the extra space and unparalleled performance needed for the very highest resolution video capture needs,” said Wes Brewer, Founder and CEO of ProGrade Digital. “Our inclusion of PCIe Gen 4 controller technology, coupled with upcoming USB 4.0 high-speed readers will allow offloading speeds 3x greater than previously possible, providing a dramatic reduction in workflow processing time.”
ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B 1.3TB Cobalt Memory Card:
- Maximum read speed up to 3,400MB/s
- Burst write speed up to 3,000MB/s
- Minimum sustained write speed up to 2,800MB/s
- CFexpress 4.0
- Capacity: 1.3TB
- MSRP: $1,459.99
CFexpress Type B 1.3TB Cobalt Delivers:
- Fully compliant with CompactFlash™ Association 4.0 specification and backward compatible with 2.0 specification
- NVMe host interface with PCIe Gen4 X2 interconnect
- Low standby power through NVMe PS0 – PS4 support enabling extended battery life
- Metal enclosure for improved durability and heat dissipation Thermal throttling protects the card from overheating
- Laser etched unique serial numbering for the tracking of key components and manufacturing data for the highest quality control
- Temperature ranges: operating 14°F to 158°F/ -10°C to 70°C; storage -4°F to 185°F/ -20°C to 85°C
- Packaging: Biodegradable fiber tray
- Refresh Pro ready*
- SLC (Single Level Cell) memory technology for the highest endurance and reliability
- RED V-Raptor and Komodo X approved
- X-ray proof and shock-proof
- 3-year warranty
Orders
Order the ProGrade Digital 1.3TB Cobalt CFexpress 4.0 Memory Card and Card Reader at B&H.
From ProGrade Digital:
PROGRADE DIGITAL™ ANNOUNCES USB 4.0 CFEXPRESS™ TYPE B SINGLE-SLOT READER
Data Transfer Rate Capability of up to 40Gbps Allows Users of CFexpress Type B Devices to Triple Their Current Workflow Performance
San Jose, CA September 5, 2023, 8:00 ET —ProGrade Digital™, founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces its new PG05.6 card reader, a single-slot reader designed specifically for the latest CFexpress 4.0 (PCIe Gen 4) Type B memory cards. The PG05.6 reader is based on the latest USB 4.0 technology which is designed to achieve speeds of up to 40Gbits/sec. When used in conjunction with the latest CFexpress 4.0 (PCIe Gen 4) memory cards, benchmark tests highlight a tripling of data transfer speed from card to host. The PG05.6 is also equipped with ProGrade’s patented magnetic base and an adhesive metal plate that allows users to mount the reader to any work surface, such as the back of a laptop. The new reader is also supplied with a certified USB 4.0 cable – assuring the maximum performance possible.
“Our new PG05.6 reader provides a tremendous leap forward in workflow performance by allowing content offload speeds to be reduced by 67% when compared to the performance of USB 3.2, Gen 2 technology of our current product line-up”, said Wes Brewer, CEO and Founder of ProGrade Digital. “Along with faster speeds comes the need to provide extra cooling capability for reader and card – something we’ve spent more than a year perfecting in the new design.”
ProGrade Digital USB 4.0 CFexpress Type B Single-Slot Card Reader Key Features:
- Single-slot memory card reader for CFexpress 4.0 Type B cards
- Backward compatible with CFexpress 2.0 Type B cards
- Transfer rates of up to 40Gbps (5GBytes/sec)
- USB 4.0 interface
- Patented magnetic base and included adhesive metal plate
- Heat sink for extra cooling capability
- Refresh Pro™ enabled*
- USB 4.0 certified cable included
- MSRP $99.99
Like all ProGrade readers, each PG05.6 reader contains a unique serial number to ensure best in-class after sales support and tight quality control of the components used inside. Using this serial number, a customer can register their product at http://progradedigital.com/register to receive product updates. The new reader is also shaded a dark grey with blue accents on the rear connector to clearly differentiate it from the prior generation of USB 3.2-based readers.
Orders
Order the ProGrade Digital 1.3TB Cobalt CFexpress 4.0 Memory Card and ProGrade Digital USB 4.0 CFexpress TYPE B Reader at B&H.
Cliff swallows flying around their community nesting sites appear to be in chaotic synchronization. While birds are flying everywhere, each seems to accomplish its task, arriving at and leaving their mud nests.
Today's question answered is, do cliff swallows ever collide? Until now, I would have answered "No." However, I was wrong, and this image makes the question rhetorical.
Photographing the cliff swallow chaos in Badlands National Park was a huge challenge, and the keeper rate was low. Aligning the lens into the area where hundreds of birds were approaching and hitting the shutter release as soon as one entered the frame was the technique deployed for this capture. The Canon EOS R5's impressive subject detection and tracking capabilities were relied on for focusing.
Capturing a pair of cliff swallows large in the frame during a mid-air collision with a supporting juxtaposition of blurred birds was a gift.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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The 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is the next Tamron lens to hit the streets in the Nikon Z mount. Preorder this lens at B&H or Adorama.
Learn more: Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD Lens Review
It was adventure day. Some new gear was in house, two of the girls were home and anxious to go somewhere, and a plan was quickly formulated.
Gear prep included mounting a Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens to the Sony Alpha 6700 and the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens to a Sony Alpha 1. For fast access, both kits were put into Lowepro Photo Active TLZ AW Top-Loader Camera Bags, the 45 and 50 respectively. A CPL filter for each lens was stowed in the case's front pocket.
We picked up sandwiches and drove close to 2 hours to the boulder field at Hickory Run State Park. After hiking out onto the rocks beyond the other visitors, the a6700 was pulled out for the requisite rock and cloud photos. That's when I discovered that the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens was mounted instead of the 16-35. The lenses are similar in appearance, and both were on my desk for evaluating the a6700.
While the FE 24-70 II is an outstanding lens, the angle of view was not as wide as I wanted for an APS-C camera body at this location. Still, the 24-70mm APS-C angle of view range worked fine for the primary need, field use with the a6700.
Our next location involved a close to 2-mile hike to a river gorge vista. Again the 16-35 would have been ideal, but good use for the 24-70mm range was availed. When photographing a still subject while focal length limited on the wide end, a panorama technique is a great option, and I made that happen.
As we explored the relatively small rock outcropping, my middle daughter shouted "Copperhead!", referring to one of the three venomous snakes found in Pennsylvania. All of us watched parts of the snake move through the mountain laurel and rocks that prevented a view clear enough for a photo.
Soon, the snake went under a rock, and we went back out onto the rocks. A few minutes later, the same daughter and I simultaneously spotted a timber rattlesnake hiding in the shade of rock layers included in the landscape pictures already captured. The dark-phased snake was highly camouflaged by the shadow it was in. Within seconds, we had the rest of the area scanned, with the realization that we were hanging out with 8 copperheads and two timber rattlers, one of which was quite large.
With a heightened sense of awareness, we began observing this location's newly availed photo subjects. While the 70-200 still in the car would have been the ideal lens, it didn't make this hike's light packing list. However, the inadvertently included 24-70 got the job done much better than the 16-35 would have.
Snakes under light-colored rocks on a sunny day create a dynamic range challenge. To overcome that obstacle, a well-positioned daughter created shade.
Numerous compositions were captured, but none of them show the awkwardness of photographing these snakes in rock cracks. To get low enough to see the snake and get the desired eye-level view, the back of my hand was on the rock, supporting (and protecting) the camera along with some upper body weight. While the a6700's LCD rotates, the angle reflected the sun, making the display unusable, and looking through the viewfinder at this height added to the challenge. Scars heal, but memories aided by digital images last a lifetime.
The elevation angle was easy to discern, but the side-to-side position decision was not as easy. In this example, the shallow f/2.8 plane of sharp focus was aligned to include the visible eyes of both snakes.
To those who fear snakes and are feeling creeped out by this image, understand that we were not in danger. While they are venomous, copperheads and timber rattlesnakes are generally docile if not attacked. Fleeing is their first choice vs. biting, and these snakes didn't care that we were there.
We said goodbye to the vipers and moved on to the next stop on the adventure.
Processing this image involved a minor complication. Despite the daughter shade, the snakes under the rock were darker than the rock above and in front of it. A manually processed single-image HDR strategy evened the lighting.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results are now available on the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens Review.
Here are some comparisons:
Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens
Compared to the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens
Compared to the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens from Lensrentals.
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Atomos Announces New Ninja Series
The industry-leading ProRes monitor-recorder just goes from strength to strength
Melbourne, Australia – 14th August 2023 – Atomos has announced the latest generation of its hugely successful Ninja line of camera-mounted monitor-recorders: Ninja and Ninja Ultra.
The original Ninja rocked the world when it was introduced in 2010, combining an HD disk recorder with a touchscreen monitor you could hold in your hand. It captured pristine, uncompressed video direct from the first generation of DSLRs straight onto a removable SSD.
The latest Ninja base model handles video sources up to nine times that resolution, has a 5-inch HDR screen, records ProRes RAW, and connects to almost every camera in the world. Little wonder “Atomos” is now in the vocabulary of almost every filmmaker.
A key component of both new Ninja models is the completely overhauled operating system, AtomOS 11. Cleaner, fresher and faster, thanks to hardware performance optimized for AtomOS 11, it delivers a host of new features too, including EL Zone exposure referenced colorized image, ARRI False Color, and new scheduled playback & recording tools.
Both models sport a distinctive ‘camo’ color polycarbonate body and now include more codecs as standard: 6K ProRes RAW, ProRes, DNxHD as well as H.265, which was previously available as a paid option.
While the Ninja is targeted primarily at owners of DSLR and mirrorless cameras, Ninja Ultra is built to get the most out of camera to cloud technology and leans into cinematic workflows with Atomos Connect. It can record full-quality files to ProRes RAW up to 4K 60p while at the same time recording HD 60p to H.265, and supports automatic matching filenames, timecode and record from ARRI, Canon and RED cameras. More cameras will be supported very soon.
Ninja Ultra’s new 4K camera to cloud mode lets you record and upload much higher quality bitrate H.265 video with higher framerates. H.265 files are half the size of H.264 media. They’re small enough for camera to cloud workflows but more than good enough for immediate use on social media, sports reporting or news gathering.
Adding an Atomos Connect expansion module to either a Ninja or a Ninja Ultra enables Atomos RemoteView - a brand new technology that lets you share live views from your Atomos screen with other Atomos monitors, as well as with iPads, Macs and Apple TVs wirelessly. You can monitor what’s happening on-set and look through any connected camera taking the shot, from anywhere in the world. RemoteView is a total game-changer for remote production, offering many new features never seen before.
For Ninja Ultra only, the Atomos Connect module provides a lower latency, higher throughput and more stable connection with Wi-Fi 6E. Once again, Atomos is leading the way by incorporating this cutting-edge Wi-Fi standard into its cloud-enabled products.
Both Ninjas are backwards-compatible with their predecessors, Ninja V and Ninja V+, so all Atomos and third-party accessories can be used with the new products.
“While we continue to innovate, we continue to listen to our customers too,” said Trevor Elbourne, CEO of Atomos. “Ninja remains the go-to ProRes monitor-recorder for individual content creators and freelancers, but with even more functionality. If cloud connectivity is not your priority right now, that’s no problem at all - you can just add that option further down the road as your business dictates.”
“Ninja Ultra, on the other hand, has been tuned for cinematic workflows as well as the cloud, although we strongly recommend that it’s paired with the Atomos Connect module to maximize its potential for studios and broadcast facilities. The addition of dual recording in 4Kp60 ProRes RAW and H.265 has been the most requested feature since we introduced cloud-enabled products last year.”
Both Ninja and Ninja Ultra will be shipping from early September 2023, priced at $599/€599 and $799/€799 respectively, excluding local sales taxes. You can see them both at IBC, Amsterdam on the Atomos booth (11.D25).
Orders
Learn more about the new Atomos Ninja and Ninja Ultra 5" On-Camera Monitors at B&H.
To an observer unfamiliar with elk behavior, this bull's antler flossing may not make sense. However, it is all about the scents.
Pine trees smell great to me, and apparently, this elk would agree. Or, at least pine trees are a good place to get and leave scents.
A larger version of this image is available here.
ISO 2000
8192 x 5572px
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Tamron has posted 2nd Quarter FY2023 Financial Results.
Page 3 provides a quick-read summary.
"Operating income, ordinary income, and net income in the 1st Half reached our historic high for two consecutive years."
It's time to check this trip off of your bucket list. I'm looking for a small number of photographers to join me on the Brown Bear Chasing Salmon in Remote Katmai National Park, Alaska Instructional Photo Tour in 2024
The dates are Tuesday, September 3 to Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
This trip promises an incredible experience and outstanding images.
Can I sign you up or answer questions?! Email me to sign up or ask questions!
Just posted: Alpine Astro Baader AstroSolar BDSF 3.8 Digital Solar Filter Review.
Now is a good time to prepare to photograph the April 2024 total solar eclipse.
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