Sony News (Page 15)
Think Tank Photo just announced the MindShift Backlight XP 26L. The MindShift Gear BackLight 26L is currently my most-used backpack. The new XP version features X-pac Sailcloth, a lightweight yet incredibly durable material.
Learn more and place an order at Think Tank Photo (limited supply available).
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).
Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens firmware update version 03 is available for download.
Firmware Version 03 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Improves AF performance
While the benefits list is short, everyone appreciates better AF performance.
Get the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens at B&H.
Last fall, my oldest and her husband were blessed with a son, Elliott. Right, that makes me a grandfather, and no other word has made me feel older. If you have followed this site from the beginning (celebrating 20 years this fall), it might make you feel old too.
It was time for another round of Elliott pictures. Timing baby pictures, even for babies as adorable as Elliott (I admit bias in that regard), revolves around the short durations between eating, sleeping, and being fussy.
It was nearly noon when I got the "We're ready!" call. Outdoor pics were requested, and the available lighting was from a bright overhead sun. The good location option under this bright spotlighting condition is facing outward from just inside a shade, yielding a large, but directional, soft light. A patio was the choice for this example.
These pics were all about Elliott, and a sense of place was not important. The Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens was my easy first choice. Especially with the close subject distance required to fill the frame with a baby, this lens easily turned the background into a strong blur.
The shallow depth of field produced by the 135mm and f/1.8 combination at close distances challenges a camera's AF system. With a DSLR, a significant percentage of always-moving baby pics with such a lens would be at least slightly out of focus, and getting a perfectly focused image combined with the perfect baby pose is difficult.
With the latest round of mirrorless cameras, the challenge has become selecting the favorite image to share (and having the fortitude to delete cute baby pictures to avoid overload). The Canon EOS R5 in servo mode with people eye detection AF enabled allowed me to focus on framing and shutter release timing. The camera's results were nearly perfect. Image selection was almost exclusively based on Elliott and I coordinating on the timing and framing.
Post processing primarily involved use of the drool and mulch removal tools. Check out how sharp this eye is:
Most results looked like this. Drool inspiring.
Hopefully you picked up a photo tip and felt the joy of this little boy.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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5464 x 8192px
While you may or may not think this image is "great", the bird is undoubtedly a "great egret", and this beautiful bird is a great subject, especially at Gatorland, where they are acclimated to people.
Combine the permitted close proximity with the greatness of the Canon EOS R7 and RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens combination, providing an ultra-high-resolution APS-C imaging sensor and a tight angle of view at 500mm, and creative bird headshots become easy.
In this example, another egret behind the subject provided an all-white background, making the colorful bill and eye stand out artistically.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art Lens firmware update version .04 is available for download.
Firmware Version .04 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- AF assist function during video recording is now supported.
*Only SONY camera models with AF assist function are supported.
Get the Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art Lens at B&H.
Do you ever dream of the perfect shot playing out before you? For example, a huge bull moose emerging from hemlocks into a clearing while walking over a bed of bright red huckleberries? This cooperative bull meant I didn't have to wake up from that dream.
As I said before, when many miles are on the wildlife photography hiking plan, the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens is probably on my camera, the Canon EOS R5 in this case.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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With the sustained write speed, the performance factor that usually matters most, on the label, new from ProGrade Digital:
PROGRADE DIGITAL ANNOUNCES HIGHER CAPACITY 3rd GENERATION CFEXPRESS TYPE B 2TB MEMORY CARD
The CFexpress 2TB Gold Memory Cards Provide Dramatically Improved Specifications Needed for Longer Duration, High-Resolution Video Applications at Very Attractive Price Points
San Jose, CA June 16, 2023, 8:00 am — ProGrade Digital, Inc., founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces its new higher capacity 3rd generation of 2TB CFexpress™ Type B Gold memory cards. This new generation features the same industry-leading quality of ProGrade current 2nd generation 128GB and 256GB capacity cards - leveraging PCIe, Gen 3 interconnect with NVMe 1.3 host controller interface. ProGrade Digital 3rd generation CFexpress 2TB cards provide read speeds of up to 1,700MB/s and burst write speeds of up to 1,500MB/s and sustained write speeds of up to 1,300MB/s – ideally suited for high-resolution video capture applications. To differentiate the new generation from prior generations, the sustained write speed is now clearly stated on the card’s top label.
“The introduction of our 3rd generation CFexpress 2TB Gold cards provides the extra-large capacity and performance needed for a very broad range of video capture needs,” said Wes Brewer, founder, and CEO of ProGrade Digital. “Our introduction of a 2TB capacity point, ensures that nearly all video capture modes can be utilized while also meeting traditional read speeds for quick offloading.”
ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B 2TB Gold Memory Card:
- Maximum read speed up to 1700MB/s
- Burst write speed up to 1500MB/s
- Minimum sustained write speed up to 1,300MB/s
- Capacity: 2TB
- MSRP: $799.99
CFexpress Type B 2TB Delivers:
- Fully compliant with CompactFlash™ Association 2.0 specification
- NVMe host interface with PCIe Gen3 X2 interconnect
- Extended battery life and low standby power through NVMe PS0 – PS4 support
- 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
- Refresh Pro ready*
- X-ray proof and shock-proof
- 3-year warranty
Get the ProGrade Digital 2TB Gold CFexpress Type B Memory Card at B&H.
I know, my daughter graduated from college a couple of years ago, but my image processing backlog is ... eh, maybe I'll share that number later. It's high. Anyway, I want to talk about portraits today, so I selected this graduation portrait to final process and share.
When capturing a portrait image, the goal is usually to emphasize the subject. Competing for that attention is everything else in the frame. While those additional elements are often not removable, they can be blurred to reduce the sharp lines of contrast that catch and pull the viewer's eye.
An outstanding way to accomplish the blurred background goal is to use an ultra-wide aperture, creating a shallow depth of field that leaves the background strongly out of focus.
Sometimes, a sense of place is desired for the portrait. The 50mm angle of view is wide enough to incorporate those identifying elements without magnifying them into obscurity.
The Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens or Sony's alternative, the FE 50mm F1.2 GM Lens, is a superb choice for this goal.
Here, the subject's head is aligned between the two buildings to further reduce background distractions.
Also check out The Graduation Exit and Athletic Graduation Portrait After Sunset images.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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8192 x 5464px
Let's talk about getting the right shutter speed for airshow photography. This discussion is largely seeking or avoiding motion blur.
Seeking opposites for the same event may seem strange, but moving parts on an airborne aircraft should be blurred to illustrate movement, to avoid the parked-in-the-sky-appearance. Primarily, helicopter and airplane rotor and propeller blades appear best when blurred, while non-moving parts look best sharp.
Blur is created when subject details move across pixels on the imaging sensor during the exposure. The movement can be from the subject, the camera, or both, and the movement relationship between the two is what determines the amount of blur.
Higher-density imaging sensors essentially magnify blur, but the final output size equalizes this difference.
Motion rendered large in the frame, close or magnified with a longer focal length, will be stronger than that of the same motion rendered small in the frame. So, subject distance and focal length play into the decision.
When there are multiple movements in the frame, blur differences occur. Turning the zoom ring affects change in all directions, and focal length zooming during the exposure can create a blur that panning cannot mitigate.
With so many factors coming into play, and with those factors changing constantly, airshow shutter speed rules are imperfect. Still, especially for those not regularly photographing airshows (or not having the ability or interest to change shutter speeds constantly during a pass), rules are helpful.
Let's start with capturing the motion blur. Try starting with 1/400 or 1/500 second exposures to blur airplane and helicopter props and rotors. While this speed is a good starting point for motion blur, unfortunately, it is not easy to keep fast aircraft sharp at these exposure durations, and you can expect a high blurry aircraft ratio in the results.
Jets do not show moving parts on the exterior, and they typically move faster. Thus, there is no need to blur any portion of the subject (though a blurred ground background may be desired), and fast shutter speeds are the best choice to stop the motion. Figure 1/1600 or faster.
When jets are flying in multiple directions, as illustrated in this image, the speed and direction of all aircraft in relation to the camera's panning direction must be accounted for, and stopping all the action requires a faster shutter speed than when panning with a single jet or with a formation of jets flying in the same direction. Freezing both planes in the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds opposing pass routines requires an extremely fast shutter speed, considerably faster than the 1/2500 exposure used for this image.
Obtaining fast shutter speeds means higher ISO settings for adequately bright results. As mentioned in the last Blue Angels image I shared, aircraft are not super detailed and the sky lacks detail. This means that noise reduction can be applied without much loss of detail, smoothing the high ISO noise.
Use the rules for insurance level settings and check the results between passes. If you are getting consistently sharp prop aircraft at 1/400, try longer exposures for greater blur (and perhaps pan-blur the ground-based background when such avails itself). If all your jets are sharp at 1/1600, consider trying a longer exposure.
While I'm talking about airshow photography here, the concepts are transferable to other photographic pursuits.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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Check out Lowepro's latest backpacks and camera box at B&H.
The larger backpacks provide plenty of open space and feature bring-your-own padded storage. I've been using this style of pack with increasing frequency, including with Lowepro Photo Active TLZ AW Top-Loader Camera Bags.
I often carry an extremely lightweight collapsible backpack similar to the RunAbout when traveling. It makes a good emergency pack, including when forced to gate check a larger pack, and it is great when only the basics are needed (such as a lunch).
On a trip targeting the Bisti / De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area in New Mexico, I ended up in Bears Ears National Monument, Utah — twice.
Why? Two reasons.
First, 3 days of sand and dust storms (even stones were in the air) provided an unfavorable New Mexico greeting. Second, Bears Ears National Monument has some great photo subjects.
I told you that before. This image is of Falling Rood Ruin Cliff Dwelling in Cedar Mesa, and this image capture shares the same circumstances and concepts as House on Fire.
Late in the morning, the sun reaches the warm-toned rock below this ancient Puebloan granary, creating a warm-toned light that reflects up into the massive rock overhang.
The name suggests the unique feature of this subject — the chunks of roof that appear to have fallen. While walking under this overhang, one can't help but wonder when the next chunk of roof will let go.
This image was processed using the cloudy white balance setting, cooler than the shade option technically right for the scenario (6500k vs. 7500k), with a bit of vibrance (+30) to bring out the richness in the colors.
While the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens was in the BackLight 26L, a cliff immediately behind this tripod position ensured there was no backing up. The Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens covered all the angles I needed at this location. This corner-to-corner sharp image is a single shot.
The 12mm angle of view captures a vast portion of the scene, including the lines in the rock under the structure.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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At the beginning of each year, I browse the US Air Force Thunderbirds and US Navy Blue Angels airshow schedules, adding the most-local events to my calendar. More often than not, the timing and distance prevent my attendance. Those two factors aligned optimally this year, and I was privileged to photograph the recent Pocono Raceway Airshow.
The same awesome factors of the auto racing typically featured at this venue, including speed and precision, align nicely with those of the airshow events, and the Blue Angels performing on this day never disappoint. Though lacking a runway, Pocono Raceway's massive grandstand, combined with clear air space and the sun positioned behind the show, is an ideal setup.
What is the best airshow lens? I opted for the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens for this event.
I also had a Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens with me for the single jet performances. This lens provided more reach, and the f/4 aperture enabled lower ISO settings.
The size and weight of the 600 made handheld tracking of the fast planes challenging and tiring. Thus, the RF 100-500 got primary use.
While the 100-500 required a higher ISO setting with the f/7.1 aperture in use, the bright day kept the f/7.1 ISO settings reasonable. In addition, planes are not super detailed (and the sky lacks detail), allowing noise reduction to be applied without much loss of detail.
With the light levels staying rather consistent this afternoon, a fully manual exposure was selected. The exposure consistency of images captured on each pass (or many passes) made mass brightness adjustments, if needed, easy.
While there were many times when 500mm was not long enough in front of a full-frame Canon EOS R5, there were times when the formation was too close for even 100mm, as illustrated here (well, 118mm to be specific).
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Just posted: Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens Review.
Designed for astrophotography.
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens from B&H | Adorama
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The Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens is available for order at B&H.
More information is available here: Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens
From Sigma Corporation of America:
SIGMA Announces 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art – the World’s First 14mm F1.4 Lens – Designed Especially for Astrophotography
Ronkonkoma, NY – June 8, 2023 – 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 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky images possible.
Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a full-frame, ultra wide-angle prime designed exclusively for mirrorless camera systems, and is available in Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount.
This lens offers a full set of features designed for astrophotography including a removable tripod socket, MFL switch (Manual Focus Lock function), lens heater retainer, rear filter holder, and a specially-designed front cap including a NEW locking mechanism and NEW filter storage slots. All this, plus thorough aberration correction make this possibly the best lens ever made for astrophotography. Its ultra-wide 14mm angle of view that captures wide starry skies and bright F1.4 aperture that minimizes exposure time are ideal specifications for astrophotography. Incredibly sharp from corner to corner with splash and dust-resistant construction, this lens retains the same high performance and quality standards found within the SIGMA F1.4 Art lens lineup.
The astrophotography-focused feature set and total optical performance make this an excellent lens for high-end architecture, real estate, and landscape photography as well.
The lens will retail for $1,599 through authorized US retailers and will be available in late June 2023.
* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA)
#SIGMA #SIGMA14mmF14Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtPrime #SIGMADGDN
Exclusively designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras
A | Art SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN
New vision. Expanding possibilities.
- Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
- Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
- Signature Art line features and high build quality
Supplied accessories: Case, COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01, REAR CAP LCR II, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41, GUIDE PLATE GP-11
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
* The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change.
* 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.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
The world's first and only* lens that combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4.
All for the best starscape photography.
The stars in the sky are a source of inspiration for viewers. On the other hand, the starry sky is a very demanding subject for a wide-angle lens, with its numerous tiny point light sources spread over the entire image. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky possible. Thanks to SIGMA's latest technology, the lens combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. In addition, SIGMA's lens technology has achieved high optical performance with thorough correction of sagittal coma flare, specialized functions to support starry landscape photography, and high-speed AF with the HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) linear motor.
The Milky Way stretching across the night sky, twinkling stars emerging over ridgelines ? the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can make this a reality as an image that surpasses the actual photographic experience. Its proven ability in shooting starscapes will provide new possibilities for visual expression and enjoyment in all scenes, including daytime landscapes, architecture, and indoor photography in dark and confined spaces.
* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA).
[ Key Features ]
1. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
This world-first performance was achieved by applying the best of SIGMA's optical technologies, from the design to the lens manufacturing process. 19 elements in 15 groups, including 1 SLD glass element, 3 FLD glass elements, and 4 aspherical lens elements, make up a luxurious lens configuration. This allows for advanced aberration correction and a high degree of precision in the lens construction. This allows both advanced aberration correction and F1.4 brightness. In particular, sagittal coma flare, which distorts the shape of stars, has been carefully corrected, and even at the widest aperture, the lens delivers high image reproducibility right to the periphery of the image. Ghosting and flare are also thoroughly addressed through both optical design and coatings. This allows for clear, crisp shooting of starry sky and night scenes. Optimized for starscapes, which require extremely high performance, this lens delivers images that exceed expectations in any scene, including landscapes, architecture snapshots, portraits, and indoor photography.
2. Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is equipped with a wealth of features to support starscape photography. This fully backs up the fun of starscape photography.
- Tripod Socket
Includes a detachable tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss type. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can be mounted on a tripod in a more stable condition, as it is heavier on the front side. The shape is designed to prevent interference even when using the lens heater. - MFL (Manual Focus Lock) Switch
A switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position. Prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring. This is useful for long time exposure photography, etc., where the focus is fixed. - Lens Heater Retainer
Steps around the front and lens heater retainers prevent the lens heater* from protruding into the front of the lens and causing vignetting on the periphery of the screen.
* A belt-shaped heater that is wrapped around the lens to prevent condensation from forming inside the lens when the temperature drops. - Rear Filter Holder
A rear filter holder is provided as standard equipment at the lens mount for attaching a sheet-type rear filter. A lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the filter from falling out. - Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slots
Includes a cover-type front cap with locking mechanism. It also has a newly developed filter slot that can hold two rear filters depending on the application. The cap is specially designed for the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art to protect the sheet filters from scratches and dirt while ensuring that they are not mistakenly taken out or forgotten.
3. Signature Art line features and high build quality
In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting starscapes, the lens is equipped with various functions to assist in shooting, including an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and stain-repellent coating, so you can shoot outdoors in harsh environments with peace of mind. The HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) enables high-speed, quiet, and highly accurate autofocusing.
In order to maintain performance while supporting a lens with a large aperture, the lens has a robust internal structure and uses lightweight materials such as polycarbonate TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a thermal shrinkage rate equivalent to that of aluminum, and magnesium in appropriate locations to reduce weight while ensuring robustness. The lens body is built with the high build quality of the Art line specifications, allowing the user to fully enjoy the unique performance of the lens in any environment, including shooting starscapes.
[ Additional Features ]
- Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD,1 SLD, and 4 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 and 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 (Sony E-mount only)
- Super Multi-Layer Coating
- Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element)
- Aperture ring
- Aperture ring click switch
- Aperture ring lock switch
- AFL button
- MFL switch
- Rear Filter Holder (compatible with GUIDE PLATE GP-11)
- Lens Heater Retainer
- Focus Mode Switch
- Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only)
- Dust and Splash Resistant Structure
- Tripod Socket TS-141 supplied
- Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slot: Cover Lens Lap LC1014-01 (NEW)
- Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (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
- "Made in Japan" craftsmanship
[ Key Specifications ]
The figures below are for the L-Mount version:
Lens Construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD, 1 SLD, 4 aspherical) Angle of view: 114.2° Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum aperture: F16 Minimum focusing distance: 30cm / 11.9 in. Maximum magnification ratio: 1:11.9 Filter size: Rear filter only Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 101.4 x 149.9mm / 4.0 x 5.9 in. Weight: 1170g / 41.3 oz.
[ Accessories: Supplied ]
COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01: 0085126 940980 REAR CAP LCR II (L-Mount): 0085126 937256 REAR CAP LCR II (Sony E-mount): 0085126 929879 TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141: 0085126 940997 PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41: 0085126 941000
[ Accessories: Optional ]
SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 for L-Mount: 0085126 878696
Bighorn sheep are common in Badlands National Park, but I don't see rams this big so frequently.
The key to capturing this image was observing that the ram was eating the yellow flowers. While eating, the ram's head was primarily down, not my favorite position. Positioning to capture the ram leaving one harvested patch on its way to another yielded a selection of head-up poses.
Getting the 600mm and f/4 combination down low on the flat grasslands creates a strongly blurred background.
Heatwave distortion was a problem during this capture, but shooting many images at a fast frame rate provided an adequate number of sharp results.
A larger version of this image is available here.
ISO 640
7901 x 5270px
From Sony Corporation of America:
Sony Electronics Announces New High-Performance M Series CFexpress Type A Memory Cards CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T
Compact, high-performance, high-capacity and toughness CFexpress Type A memory cards take the compact dimensions and advanced features of Sony's Alpha Series to the next level
SAN DIEGO, June 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Sony announced two new CEA-M Series CFexpress Type A memory cards, CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T, that conform to the CFexpress 2.0 and VPG200 and offer high 1920 GB and 960 GB capacities. In addition to a VPG200 rating that guarantees fast and stable video recording without dropped frames, they are resistant to bending and drop impact and feature a dust and moisture sealing that ensures maximum reliability in any environment. These compact, high-performance memory cards are ideal for professional users who need high capacities and stress-free, reliable operation.
Sony Electronics Announces New High-Performance M Series CFexpress Type A Memory Cards CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T
CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T reliably shoot longeri on location and have some of the highest available capacities in CFexpress Type A memory cards that comply to VPG standard anywhere in the worldii, so running out of media space is not a concern. The memory cards provide plenty of capacity for extended recording video or when shooting stillsiii. For video shooters, the VPG200 Video Performance Guarantee rating enables stable recording at 200 MB/s with no dropped frames for an extended period, even when recording XAVC S-I 4K footage and high bitrates.
Despite their large capacities, these CFexpress Type A memory cards are very compact, about half the size of Type B cards, and even shorter and narrower than SD cards. An original alloy with superior heat transmission characteristics is used to conduct heat out of the cards and maintain optimum performance. This results in long-term stability and reliable operation when internally recording the large volume of data required for 4K 120p video. What's more, the CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T offer the same outstanding toughness of dust and moisture resistance, plus resistance to water, bending and drop impact as Sony's acclaimed CEA-G series CFexpress Type A memory cards, so important data is protected.
Sony's free desktop applications support protecting important data in the CFexpress Type A cards: Media Scan Utility diagnoses the state of the flash memory in memory cards, and Memory Card File Rescue recover accidentally deleted image data on memory cardsiv v. RAW images and 4K movie data are supported.
The new CEA-M1920T and CEA-M960T will be available in June 2023 at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers, for an estimated retail price of $1400 USD and $760 USD, respectively.
Orders
Support this site by ordering your Sony CFexpress Type A TOUGH Memory Card at B&H
i Depends on shooting settings
ii As of 1st June, 2023 product announcement.
iii The number of RAW still images recordable during high-speed bursts is lower, and buffer clearing times are longer than Sony's CFexpress Type A CEA-G series memory cards. Details at https://www.sony.net/dics/cfea_spec/
iv Separately sold MRW-G2 card reader is required for CFexpress Type A card diagnosis (diagnosis is not possible with readers from other manufacturers or a direct camera connection).
v File Rescue downloadable software available at official website. Does not support data recovery for Content Protected and Game Data files. Not all data may be recoverable.
From Atomos:
Atomos Supports ProRes RAW Plug-ins
Taking ProRes RAW to the next level
Melbourne, Australia – 23rd May 2023 – Atomos announces immediate support for Apple ProRes RAW plug-ins, an innovation that lets camera manufacturers provide their own ProRes RAW processing pipeline to take advantage of the unique properties of their cameras, sensors, lenses, and more.
ProRes RAW is widely regarded as the universal RAW video format. With the introduction of plug-ins, now every camera maker can provide their own unique processing, in a completely confidential way, by writing a single ProRes RAW plug-in that brings out the best quality and unique looks created by their own cameras. ProRes RAW becomes, in effect, the conduit for their custom processing, carrying the unique characteristics of any camera, sensor, processing, and lens combination into post-production. ProRes RAW plug-ins will be supported in Final Cut Pro as well as many third-party applications that have licensed the ProRes RAW SDK, such as nonlinear editors (NLEs) and color correction applications.
The process is very straightforward: simply install the camera vendor’s ProRes RAW plug-in and Final Cut Pro will automatically show all the new enhanced features of the supported camera. Using a ProRes RAW plug-in enables camera-specific adjustments such as custom white balancing, noise reduction, demosaicing, lens distortion correction, and more. Canon is the first camera maker to deliver a ProRes RAW Plug-in, with the EOS R5, R5 C and R6 Mark II cameras outputting RAW to an Atomos monitor-recorder. Atomos has already enabled full ProRes RAW plug-in support for these cameras in the current release firmware for Ninja V, Ninja V+, and Shogun Connect. Atomos supports over 50 camera models recording ProRes RAW from the camera’s RAW output over SDI or HDMI, so is uniquely placed to record this new enhanced metadata standard.
“This new feature for the ProRes RAW ecosystem is absolutely going to change the way people think about recording ProRes RAW,” said Trevor Elbourne, Atomos CEO. “For the first time the filmmaker literally gets the best of all worlds: shoot in ProRes RAW with the option to immediately apply camera-specific processing, use standard processing, or customise individual parameters to their own taste. You have to ask yourself: why wouldn’t you shoot in ProRes RAW?”.
“We are very proud to be working alongside Apple and Canon to bring this ProRes RAW innovation to market,” Elbourne added. “We were first to market with an 8K ProRes RAW compatible mirrorless camera - the Canon EOS R5 - and now we are making another huge advancement with the ProRes RAW format.” The ProRes RAW plug-in model has been designed to work not only with macOS but also with Windows and Linux.
From Sigma:
Firmware update for SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports
Thank you for purchasing and using our products. We would like to announce that a firmware update for the 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports is now available.
[Applicable product]
SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports for L-Mount
[Benefit of the update]
Ver.1.1
The newly developed “OS2” image stabilization algorithm has been updated to improve the image stabilization effect from approximately 4 stops to approximately 6.5 stops at the wide end and 5.5 stops at the telephoto end.
Supports Leica Extender L 1.4x by Leica Camera AG
[How to update]
For those who update the firmware in-camera
Refer to the following page for firmware updates.
https://www.sigma-global.com/en/support/purpose/firmware/?mode=search&product_category=lens
For those who own the SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11
Connect the lens to a computer via the SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately), then open SIGMA Optimization Pro. If the lens firmware isn’t the latest version, the following message will appear: ‘The latest lens firmware is available’. Click ‘Yes’ to update.
Note:
Before updating lens firmware using the SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11, please ensure you update SIGMA Optimization Pro to the latest version.
Do not remove the lens or press the detachment button while updating firmware.
[SIGMA Optimization Pro download page]
https://www.sigma-global.com/en/software/sigma-optimization-pro/
[Applicable product]
·SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports for Sony E-mount
[Benefit of the update]
Ver.03
The newly developed “OS2” image stabilization algorithm has been updated to improve the image stabilization effect from approximately 4 stops to approximately 6.5 stops at the wide end and 5.5 stops at the telephoto end.
Improved tracking performance when the camera’s focus mode is set to AF-C.
[How to update]
Please select the applicable product from the following page, go to the download page, click “Sony E-mount(applicable Serial No.)” and follow the update procedure.
https://www.sigma-global.com/en/support/purpose/firmware/?mode=search&product_category=lens
*After the update is complete, be sure to remove the battery pack from the camera and reinsert it.
For further information, please contact your nearest authorized SIGMA subsidiary / distributor.
https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/
We appreciate your continued support for our company and products.
Learn more: Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens Review
Get the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens at B&H.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics Announces Newest Ultra Wide-Angle Zoom Vlogging Camera, the ZV-1 II
The Integrated Lens and Compact Camera in the Vlog Camera ZV-Series Opens the Door for a Wider Audience of Content Creators
SAN DIEGO, May 23, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics launches the all-new second generation camera to the ZV-1 in the vlog camera ZV series, the ZV-1 II, which includes highly requested and popular market-leading features. With a wider-angle lens than ZV-1, the ZV-1 II helps vloggers make more engaging storytelling with attractive photogenic image quality.
With the 1.0-type Exmor RS™ image sensor (approximately 20.1 effective megapixels), BIONZ X™ image processing engine, and newly developed ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 18-50 mm F1.8-4i lens, the ZV-1 II allows for creators of many skill levels to enjoy sophisticated capabilities. From the 18-50mmii wide angle lens which can frame everything from group selfies to narrow interiors or dynamic recordings of everyday scenes to the Multiple Face Recognitioniii, which recognizes multiple faces and automatically adjusts to keeps all faces sharp and clear when taking selfie shots that include two or three people, the ZV-1 II is the advanced vlogging camera packed into a travel-size.
"The ZV-1 II is an exciting chapter for content creators and will be the go-to camera for many, including vloggers, social media influencers and short form video creators. With the newest vlog camera in the ZV series, we have taken requests from various users and included features that matter most to vloggers," says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. "We are striving to take feedback from our community to continue to expand and elevate our ZV series and the ZV-1 II does just that."
Comprehensive Features for Vloggers & Video Content Creators
The ZV-1 II has a number of new and popular features that will empower creators to capture better content.
- Ultra-wide angle and Zoom - 18mmii wide angle of view makes it easy to capture attractive photogenic image with the entire scene – especially when shooting selfies at arm's length. The 18-50mm optical zoom and the Clear Image Zoom smoothly enlarges images while minimizing loss of image quality to create variety in videos by changing the angle of view.
- 1.0 type sensor with Bokeh Switch which gives beautiful bokeh by defocusing the background with a single touch.
- Intelligent 3-capsule microphone - In Auto mode, the camera recognizes human faces or objects and automaticallyiv switches the direction of the built-in microphone ([Front] or [All Directions]). In Manual mode, you can select [Front] for selfies, [Rear] when shooting with narration or [All Directions]. The supplied windscreen ensures a clear recording of the speaker when outdoors. Easy to use cableless attachment to Multi Interface Shoev and a 3.5 mm microphone jack makes it easy to connect external microphones.
- Cinematic Vlog Setting function responds to the demands to easily capture videos with a filmic look. It enables impressive imagery at a touch. Simply tap the on-screen function icon and the camera will automatically set a CinemaScope size (2.35:1) vi and a frame rate of 24 fpsvii --the same as for a cinema movie. Then finish off the work with the on-screen buttons to select from five LOOKs and four MOODs
- Creative Look which supports 10 preset looksviii to suit your creative preferences and pro-level imaging features.
- Face Priority AE and Soft Skin Effect automatically and immediately detects faces and adjusts the exposure to optimize facial brightness, no matter the lighting. Soft skin effect smooths skin and facial features when filming.
- Fast Hybrid AF System - Even in high-definition 4K where precise focusing is required, the camera will keep the images sharp with the same Fast Hybrid AF system seen in a series cameras. The camera is equipped with AF Transition Speed to select the focusing speed during video recording, and AF Subject Shift Sensitivity to control whether the camera shifts focus from one subject to another. In addition, the Real-time Eye AF can accurately keep focus on human or animals for both stills and movies.
- Product Showcase Setting - which delivers convenient shooting of product review videos with smooth focus transitions from your face to the item you are highlighting.
- S&Q shoot modevix which allows a selection up to 5x slow or up to 60x quick motion to add impact to everyday scenes. The combination of shooting and recording frame rates can now be set on a single screen.
- ISO sensitivity spanning from 125 to 12800 - allows the camera to record sharp images with less noise, even in low lighting.
- Active Mode electronic image stabilization - content can be captured while walking or in motion and is especially useful for handheld shootingx. Useful for handheld Movie and Slow & Quick motion shooting.
- Built-in ND filter – to reduce exposure by three stops and allow for beautiful background bokeh even in the brightest situation.
Compact and Lightweight for Easy Portability, Operability, Connectivity
The ZV-1 II is perfect for on-the-go; its compact and lightweight design can be easily carried in a pocket or small bag, even with its optical wide zoom lens. The ZV-1 II supports different filming styles with the vari-angle screen suitable for selfies, easy to hold body grip (or with an optional GP-VPT2BT grip), user-friendly key and control layoutxi and the recording indicator on the front face of the body. The monitor display has been redesigned with a bold, clearly visible red frame that makes it obvious when recording is in progress. Power charge easily via a USB Type-C® connector.
Creators can connect and share content easily with Sony's Creators' Cloud platform and easy smartphone connection. The Creators' App can be used to control the ZV-1 II from a smartphone, monitor camera battery and media status, edit date and camera names, and easily transfer stills and videos shot, even in the background. The Creators' Appxii also provides a convenient way to update camera software.
For easy high-quality live streaming, simply connect the ZV-1 II to a PC or smartphone xiii with a commercially available USB cable (not included) to use it as a webcam. Make your video more attractive in online meetings and live streaming by using Creative Look to improve the skin's appearance and adjust the hue. Faces will appear clearer and brighter (Face Priority AE) and the eyes will be kept in focus (Real-time Eye AF).
Sustainable and Accessible Design
In addition to Sony's commitment to a sustainable future with global initiatives like Road to Zero and the 2030 renewable energy goal, the ZV-1 II has been specifically developed with sustainability in mind. Recycled materials, including SORPLAS™xiv, are used for the camera body, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing functionality. Sony's unique recycled paper "Original Blended Material", which does not use plastic and is easy to recycle, is used for individual packaging. Using materials such as bamboo, sugar cane fiber, and recycled paper collected from the market, it is both environmentally friendly and high quality.
The ZV-1 II includes accessibility features that facilitate operation in several ways, including screen reader functionality for people with low vision or with visual impairments. Accessibility features allow anyone to enjoy shooting and playback. When the screen reader functionxv is activated, text on the menu screens is read aloud. The screen reader function can be activated by turning the [Screen Reader] function in the [Setup] tab ON. Screen reader volume can be adjusted via the [Sound Options] settings. In addition to the above, the ZV-1 II includes several functions that assist in achieving pinpoint focus on a variety of subjects. Additionally, the Real-time Eye AF can automatically recognize and focus on [Human] or [Animal], or the Real-time Tracking function. Focus Magnification, and Peaking functions make it easier to focus manually, and features like Touch Focus, Touch Tracking, and Touch Shutter let the user focus, track, and shoot simply by touching the subject on the monitor screen. ZV-1 II accessibility features (items listed in the specifications): Screen Reader, Touch AE, Focus Magnifier, Peaking Display, Real-time Eye AF, Real-time Tracking, Touch Focus, Touch Tracking, Touch Shutter, Vari-angle LCD screen and Custom function.
Pricing and Availability
The new ZV-1 II will be available in June 2023 at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers, for an estimated retail price of $900 USD and $1,200 CAN.
Orders
Order the Sony ZV-1 II Vlogging Camera at B&H or Adorama.
Notes:
i 35mm format equivalent. 9 elements in 9 groups, including 5 aspherical and 1 AA (because the advance aspherical element is one of the 5 aspherical lenses) lens elements. 7-bladede circular aperture. T* Coating to suppress ghost and flaring.
ii 35mm format equivalent.
iii Compatible with video modes/S&Q mode only. Wide side. iAUTO mode selected. Does not work when the Bokeh switch is ON or when subject recognition is OFF.
iv Direction may be fixed depending on the shooting settings.
v Not compatible with digital audio interface.
vi The black bands at the image top and bottom are recorded as part of the image. The image (excluding the bars) is in CinemaScope aspect ratio, but the recorded image is 16:9.
vii Recording frame rates are indicated as the closest integer values. The actual corresponding frame rates are as follows: 24p: 23.98 fps, 30p: 29.97 fps, 60p: 59.94 fps, and 120p: 119.88 fps.
viii Creative Look presets: ST, PT, NT, VV, VV2, FL, IN, SH, BW, SE and Advanced settings (Saturation cannot be adjusted when BW or SE is selected): Contrast, highlights, shadows, fade, saturation, sharpness and clarity.
vix S&Q mode records in XAVC S HD format. Audio cannot be recorded. A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required. Recording at 100 Mbps requires a UHS-I (U3) SDHC/SDXC memory card.
x The angle of view is slightly narrower in Active Mode. Active Mode is set to be off when the recording frame rate is 120 p or when the "Slow & Quick Motion Frame Rate" is 120 fps.
xi Keys and controls on the ZV-1 II are optimally arranged for greater usability, including REC button and Still/Movie/S&Q button.
xii Check regional availability of services and applications via the URL below: Creators' App: https://www.sony.net/cca , Creators' Cloud: https://www.sony.net/cc/ Download app at Google Play and the App Store. Network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information.
xiii Streaming via USB gives 1280×720 resolution and 30 fps frame rate. To use this function, the PC's or smartphone's OS must support UVC/UAC. Be sure to use the OS's latest version. When connecting to a mobile device equipped with a USB Type-C® port, use a commercially available USB cable or terminal conversion adapter.
xiv SORPLAS™ may not be used for the parts used depending on the production period.
xv Availability varies depending on region and language.
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