"Capture One 16.4.5 is a service release containing new features and improvements, such as Multiple Folders in Live for Studio, support for Canon R5 Mark II and Canon R1, and bug fixes." [Capture One]
Get the full details of this update in the release notes.
Get Capture One at B&H.
The little green heron's strike happens extremely fast and infrequently. Thus, photographing this bird in action involves lots of waiting with occasional sudden lightning-fast action. A few minutes into waiting for a strike, attention deficit kicks in, and one's mind begins to think about other matters. Of course, the sudden action we have been waiting for happens while our minds are adrift, and we miss the shot.
That is not the case with the Canon EOS R5 Mark II. Mind drift is no longer an issue with the R5 II's game-changing pre-continuous shooting feature because we can seemingly capture images from the past.
Without being especially alert while half-pressing the shutter release, I still captured this heron's surprise full strike and recoil. This image is the second in the 20-fps sequence to have the tadpole fully out of the water. The tadpole's alignment with the shadow behind it, along with a nice stream of water falling from the catch, made this selection optimal.
While the general area of tadpole attack could be estimated, the specific prey location was unknown. Thus, framing slightly wide to account for whatever happened made sense, and this image is cropped by just over 10% in both dimensions. Because of the R5's ultra-high resolution, the final image still measures 4830 x 7241 pixels, about 35 megapixels.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Just posted: llano Fast Dual Camera Battery Charger Review.
If your Canon LP-E6NH and Sony NP-FZ100 batteries are in the same condition as mine, this review will be highly relevant.
The llano Fast Dual Camera Battery Charger is available at Amazon, where the user reviews are quite positive. Use coupon code llano0420 to save 10% (use code llano15DE to save 15% at Amazon DE).
Amazon US: Canon LP-E6NH | Sony FZ100
Amazon UK: Canon LP-E6NH | Sony FZ100
Amazon CA: Canon LP-E6NH | Sony FZ100
Amazon DE: Canon LP-E6NH | Sony FZ100
Just posted: Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens Review.
Niche lens that inspires creativity.
Support this site by ordering the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
With the Canon EOS R5 Mark II in hand, it is time to find subjects, and few are cuter than whitetail fawns.
This one cooperatively posed in front of a distant background, which the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens turned into a strong blur. Your eye sees nothing but deer (and a few raindrops).
Image quality test results are now available on the Tamron 28-300mm F4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens page.
See the optical performance of this new super zoom lens.
Compared to the Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 24-240mm F3.5-6.3 OSS Lens
Compared to the Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD Lens
Compared to the Tamron 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens
Please share!
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 28-300mm F4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada
Tamron as shared the 1st Quarter 2024 Financial Results.
A selection of quotes:
"The interchangeable lens camera market grew by approximately 10% in both volume and value, driven by strong performance in mirrorless cameras."
"The interchangeable lenses market grew by approximately 10% in volume basis and approximately 25% in value basis."
"Net Sales and Operating Income showed double-digit or higher increase in all segments."
"Net Sales significantly increased by approximately 1.4 times and Operating Income significantly increased by approximately 1.7 times YoY."
"Achieved record high Net Sales and Operating Income for the 1st half of the year."
1H: "Sales of mainstay Photographic Products Segment increased by approximately 1.4 times"
"Own-Brand products sales are expected to increase by double digits due to new model launches and sales recovery in Europe and US markets."
"OEM products sales in the 1st half far exceeded the plan, leading to revised sales forecast decrease in the 2nd half compared to the 1st half. However, the initial sales forecast in the 2nd half, which are planned to decrease YoY revised upward to double-digit growth."
"The initial forecast for single-digit increase in Sales and Operating Income has been revised doble-digit increase by maintaining a high profitability due to higher gross profit from higher sales and favorable foreign exchange efforts."
Tamron now plans to introduce 7 new lens models in 2024, up from 6 in the original plan, and up from 5 in 2022 and 2023.
From Manfrotto:
MANFROTTO EXPANDS THE BEST-SELLING BEFREE TRAVEL TRIPOD RANGE
August 7th - Manfrotto, the world-leading manufacturer of professional photography, video, and cinema production equipment with over 50 years of experience, announces the addition of 3 new models to its top-selling Befree travel tripod range. Designed for creators using the latest mirrorless cameras, the new Befree tripods offer a lightweight, feature-rich solution for on-the-go photography and videography.
With the rise in popularity of mirrorless cameras and the increasing demand for high-performance, portable equipment, Manfrotto is meeting the needs of professional photographers and hybrid creators with the launch of these new Befree models.
Expanding the existing product range, the new additions offer a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance, positioning them as the must have travel companion to ensure the best shots of any travel experience.
Catering to different scenarios and offering solutions for professionals working in various contexts – whether it is capturing captivating images on-the-go or creating high quality video content, the new Befree tripods provide the precision and reliability required by today’s travel professionals.
Designed to provide the best-in-class solutions for photographers and creators seeking enhanced creativity and functional design in a lightweight package, the new models are available in both aluminium and carbon fibre, providing options for users who value durability and lightweight constructions.
The new Befree models include a full Arca-compatible model for professional photographers, a hybrid model for creators looking capture both photos and videos, and for the first time ever, a standalone tripod leg option that can be paired with the user’s preferred head.
Befree Advanced AS (Aluminium $199.95, Carbon $289.95)
A must have addition to the portfolio for on the road professional photographers working with mirrorless, the Befree Advanced AS is a flexible, reliable tripod kit for users to directly mount different accessories such as a L bracket, camera cage or tele lens collar mount to suit the shoot they have planned without needing a QR plate interface. Fully Arca-compatible, the Befree Advanced AS is made in Italy to certified industry payload standards.
Befree GT PRO 3-Way (Aluminium $329.95, Carbon $429.95)
For travel hybrid creators that are often on the road and need a tripod kit that is compact but versatile to capture mesmerising pictures and unprecedented video footage, the new Befree GT PRO 3-Way is the go-to professional travel tripod for any trip. This hybrid tripod works seamlessly for photo and video applications thanks to the levelling column and 3-Way head with fluid pan and tilt movements for both vertical and landscape video.
Befree GT PRO tripod legs (Aluminium $199.95, Carbon $299.95)
The Befree GT PRO tripod legs are suited for any professional photographer and videographer who carries out jobs in any studio setup. Super compact, with a fully foldable design and a strong payload, the Befree GT tripod legs can be matched with any head of choice – from the Befree 496 Ball Head to any other head from the extensive Manfrotto range.
With travel becoming more popular than ever, the addition of 3 new models to the best-selling Befree tripod collection ensures the range meets the diverse needs of professional photographers and videographers on the move, ensuring performance and versatility for any shot, in every location.
Get your Manfrotto Befree tripod at B&H.
Learn more about the new Godox AD600Pro II All-in-One Outdoor Flash at B&H.
This is version II of the flashes used for the site's lens testing. They are a great value.
This flash is also available in the Flashpoint brand at Adorama.
I'm pulling a line item out of my long-forming and yet unpublished Bryan's Laws of Photography. That law is:
Bryan's Law of Following: Those you follow set the quality bar for your imagery. While you may not love your images as much when comparing them to the best, your path to producing great imagery will be shorter if you know what great is, if you have a goal. Follow the greats.
For example, I have long respected Ian Plant's work. He is a photographer I consider to be great and, therefore, follow.
Ian's compositional skills are outstanding, and his ability to combine composition with the perfect light makes his images impressive.
Next steps:
You, too, might start asking, "What would Ian do?" when approaching a composition.
From Tamron Americas:
TAMRON Announces the Launch of the 10.7x All-in-One Zoom Lens
28-300mm F/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD (Model A074)
Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 28-300mm F/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD (Model A074), a 10.7x all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras on August 29, 2024, at $899 USD / $1199 CAD.
The TAMRON 28-300mm F4-7.1 VC is an all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. This lens covers a broad focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 300mm telephoto with superior imaging performance. It achieves a zoom ratio of 10.7x with a length of just 5” (126mm) and weighs only 21.5 oz. (610g). The lens is equipped with the VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism, enabling it to focus quickly and accurately throughout the entire zoom range. The lens also features TAMRON’s VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism to ensure sharp hand-held images when shooting at the 300mm telephoto end and in low-light conditions. With an MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 7.5” (0.19m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.8 at the wide end, the lens allows users to enjoy the world of wide macro photography. It includes a Focus Set Button and a connector port for the dedicated TAMRON Lens Utility™ software independently developed by TAMRON to expand the scope of expression for still images and video. The lens features Moisture-Resistant Construction, and the front element has a protective Fluorine Coating. The new 28-300mm F/4-7.1 VC lets users take photos in an extremely wide range of situations with just one lens.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
1. 10.7x zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras that covers the focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 300mm telephoto
The greatest feature of the 28-300mm F/4-7.1 VC is its 10.7x zoom focal length range. In response to users stating that 200mm is not quite long enough at the telephoto end for an all-in-one zoom lens, TAMRON has extended the focal length to 300mm. Exceptionally portable, the lens features a highly compact design. This single lens allows shooting in everyday life and during travel, including landscapes, snapshots, portraits and sports photography. It's an extremely versatile lens that lets users take photos in any situation of any subject without changing lenses.
2. Outstanding imaging performance
This new TAMRON zoom has an optical construction of 20 elements in 13 groups. It includes one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) lens element and an LD (Low Dispersion) lens element to efficiently control aberrations such as chromatic aberration. The BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) Coating suppresses ghosting and flare, producing clear images even in backlit conditions. It boasts best-in-class image quality as an all-in-one zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.
3. Lightweight and compact lens body
Despite covering a 10.7x focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 300mm telephoto, the lens is very compact, with a length of only 5” (126mm) and a weight of 21.5 oz. (610g). Small and versatile, it can be casually carried anywhere, and users are unlikely to tire even after long hours of shooting. It's ideal for people who want to carry a smaller camera bag. Additionally, the lens makes it easy to frame accurately when shooting still and moving images while zooming in and out, such as sports and wildlife, and is designed to be comfortable to use.
4. Equipped with VXD, TAMRON’s top-class linear motor focus mechanism
The 28-300mm F/4-7.1 VC is equipped with the VXD autofocus drive that includes TAMRON’s premium linear motor focus mechanism to ensure that the focus is attained quickly and accurately throughout the 10.7x zoom range. Upending the stereotype of all-in-one zoom lenses having slow autofocus, its nimble operation allows users to capture more fleeting photo opportunities. The quietness supports photography and videography in conditions that require silence.
5. TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism
Although it's compact, the 28-300mm F/4-7.1 is equipped with TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism that lets users take steady photos, especially at the 300mm telephoto end of its broad 10.7x range. VC effectively suppresses camera shake that often occurs when shooting in the telephoto range or under low-light conditions, thereby helping users take sharp photos without a tripod.
6. Proprietary software tool TAMRON Lens Utility for lens function customization and firmware updates
7. High convenience and operability
- 67mm filter size, same as most other TAMRON lenses for mirrorless cameras
- Focus Set Button for assigning camera function and TAMRON Lens Utility function
- Enhanced overall lens design for user-friendly operation
- Zoom Lock mechanism
8. Protective features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)
9. Compatible with many camera-onboard features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: A074
Focal Length: 28-300mm
Maximum Aperture: F4-7.1
Angle of View (diagonal): 75°23'-8°15' (for full-frame mirrorless format)
Optical Construction: 20 elements in 13 groups
Minimum Object Distance: 7.5” / 0.19m (WIDE), 39” / 0.99m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:2.8 (WIDE) / 1:3.8 (TELE)
VC (Vibration Compensation): Yes
Filter Size: Ø67mm
Maximum Diameter: Ø77mm
Length*: 5” (126mm)
Weight: 21.5 oz. (610g)
Aperture Blades**: 9 (circular diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture: F22-40
Standard Accessories: Flower-shaped hood, Front cap, Rear cap
Mount: Sony E-mount
* 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.
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 28-300mm F4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H.
I've been using a pair of Alpha 1 cameras for Sony lens testing and for field use when a Sony lens better fit the need. The flagship a1 is an outstanding camera. What are the differences between the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and the Sony Alpha 1?
Check out the R5 II vs. a1 specification comparison along with the visual comparison of these cameras.
Here is a summary of the R5 II's advantages:
That is a solid list.
Here are the a1's advantages:
Comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics, and these two cameras have significant differences in those regards. Advantages will often be determined by personal preference.
The bottom line is that both cameras are incredible and my two favorites. However, the R5 II's $2,199.00 lower price makes it a considerably better deal.
If you have not already done so, order the R5 II immediately if you have even a remote interest in it.
More Information
The a9 series targets sports and action, and the a9 III is Sony's latest model in that series. This camera was introduced earlier in the same year as the R1, and includes some outstanding features.
Check out the R1 vs. a9 III specification comparison along with the visual comparison of these cameras.
What are the differences between the Canon EOS R1 and the a9 III? Here are the R1 advantages:
The a9 III's advantages are:
Again, comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics, and these two cameras are vastly different. Those advantages are a personal preference.
If you have not already done so, order the R1 immediately if you have even a remote interest in it.
More Information
Let's compare a pair of outstanding Sony cameras, starting with the flagship Sony Alpha 1. Check out the R1 vs. Alpha 1 specification comparison along with the visual comparison of these cameras.
What are the differences between the Canon EOS R1 and the a1? Here are the R1 advantages:
Despite being introduced 3 years earlier, the a1 still holds advantages:
Comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics, and these two cameras are vastly different in those regards. Advantages will often be determined by personal preference.
If you have not already done so, order the R1 immediately if you have even a remote interest in it.
More Information
Before we dig into the details, I strongly advise preordering these cameras immediately if you have even a remote interest in them. They are in extremely high demand, and I expect preorders to long consume supply. Orders are easy to cancel, but lines are not easy to get to the front of.
Important: Using the links on this site, including below, to place your order provides important support. Thanks in advance for that!
Extensive Hands-On Information: Canon EOS R5 Mark II Canon EOS R1
If you are short on time, browse the feature summaries near the top of each page. Note the comparisons between the R5 II and the R5, R6 II, R3, and R1 included on the Canon EOS R5 Mark II page.
Preorders
Canon EOS R5 Mark II: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Canon EOS R1: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Get extra Canon LP-E6P Batteries: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Canon BG-R20 Battery Grip: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada
Canon BG-R20EP LAN Port Grip: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada
Canon CF-R20EP Cooling Fan Grip: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada
Just posted: Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens Review.
Find out how the new lighter, smaller, and more affordable 35 L lens performs. Additional sample photos are coming.
Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada
One power adapter to replace them all. The Xcellon PDG-4200B 4-Port 200W GaN USB Charger is on sale for half price today ($59.99) at B&H.
We have an ever increasing number of USB charged and powered devices, and often, each has its own power adapter, often vying for receptical space in the same location. Taking all those chargers traveling is another complication.
What if a single charger could cover of all your needs? And, what if that charger had more power than all your other chargers combined? This might be that one.
B&H recently sent me the high-quality, ultra-useful, Xcellon PDG-4200B GaN (Gallium Nitride, remains cooler than silicon) charger, featuring 4 ports with up to 200W total power output. Increasing our productivity (and feeding our impatience) is this charger's support of PD 3.0, PPS (Programmable Power Supply), QC4+, and Samsung Super Fast fast charging. Short circuit, overcurrent, overvoltage, and overtemperature preventions are provided.
The individual port ratings add up to more than the 200w this charger is capable of, and thus, limits are imposed. Here are the possible power distribution combinations:
USB-C (Port 1 or 2): 100W
USB-C (Port 3): 65W
USB-A: 60W
USB-C (Port 1 and 2): 100W + 100W
USB-C (Port 1 or 2 and 3): 100W + 65W
USB-C (Port 1 or 2) and USB-A: 100W + 60W
USB-C (Port 3) and USB-A: 12W + 12W
USB-C (Port 1 & 2) and USB-C (Port 3) or USB-A: 100W + 65W + 30W
USB-C (Port 1 or 2), USB-C (Port 3), and USB-A: 100W + 12W + 12W
USB-C (All 3 Ports) and USB-A: 100W + 65W + 12W + 12W
The 3' (0.9m) power cable moves the snarl and space competition away from recepticals.
The simple charger is compact, measuring only 3.5 x 2.5 x 1.4" (89.2 x 64.7 x 36.3 mm), with the 11.7 oz (331 g) weight being its primary con. The weight feels substantial compared to the small size, but it aids in the solid feel.
With various devices connected to the same charger, it seems that hub capabilities would have been an easy feature to include, but this device is dedicated to providing power.
Consider pairing this charger with Pearstone USB4 Type-C 240W Power Delivery Cables (up to 40 Gb/s, 48V/5A, Thunderbolt 3 & 4) to power laptops, cameras, etc.
Get the Xcellon PDG-4200B 4-Port 200W GaN USB Charger for half price today at B&H.
Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results are now available on the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page.
Here are some comparisons to get you started:
Compared to the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Lens
Compared to the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens
Compared to the Tamron 35mm f/1.4 Di USD Lens
Please share!
Support the site by ordering the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada
Rent the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from Lensrentals.
Skylum has announced Aperty Portrait Software.
The first 1,000 customers get a lifetime license.
From Skylum:
Skylum Announces A New Photo Editing App For Professional Portrait Photographers
NEW YORK, NY – May 23, 2024 - Skylum, a leading innovator in photo editing software and the company behind the award-winning, AI-powered program Luminar Neo, is proud to announce Project “Barcelona”, a new desktop application specifically for professional portrait retouching.
Recognizing the increasing demand for time-saving tools in portrait photography that would enable professional and semi-professional photographers to focus on creative growth and client engagement, Skylum is collaborating with renowned portrait photographer Julia Trotti to develop this specialized software solution. Set for release in September 2024, Project “Barcelona” will empower photographers by automating routine face retouching processes through an efficient, AI-optimized workflow that runs locally on the user’s device, making it as easy as applying presets. With the added advantage of precise and adjustable masking tools, it provides enhanced control and accuracy for perfect results every time. This, in turn, will allow portrait photographers to balance the time-intensive task of photo retouching with shooting and growing their photography business.
Designed with the specific needs of portrait photographers in mind, the new app’s key features include:
Skin Toning: Make subtle changes to the skin tone of specific areas thanks to an accurate facial skin segmentation model; remove the red hue or unify the overall color. On top of that, the new app's state-of-the-art face mesh model provides unique makeup correction capabilities, allowing the application of extra textures like blush, highlight, and contour, and changing the color of lips, brows, and other elements.
Eye Enhancement: Add iris flare, remove redness, and adjust eye shape with a comprehensive suite of tools to perfect a subject’s eyes in portraits.
Teeth Whitening: Ensure radiant smiles with advanced teeth whitening and brightening capabilities.
Makeup Application: Enjoy customizable options for creative makeup styles and colors to compliment any complexion, clothing, or backdrop.
Bokeh Effects: Create stunning depth-of-field effects with the bokeh feature, adding dimension and allure to portraits.
Body Enhancement: Adjust bodily proportions to correct posture and account for unflattering angles, making sure portraits capture subjects in their best light.
"In the development of Project “Barcelona” (public name to be announced soon), we’re working closely with acclaimed photographer Julia Trotti to infuse our software with professional insights that meet the specific needs of portrait photographers everywhere," says Ivan Kutanin, CEO of Skylum. "Just as Luminar Neo provides convenient editing solutions for a broad set of photography challenges, this new app uses cutting-edge AI technology to help portrait photographers achieve top-quality retouching and inspire them with new creative possibilities."
Early bird offer starts June 25, 2024. Find out more on Skylum’s website and sign up for the waiting list for early access.
While this Shenandoah National Park buck is staring directly at the camera, it is the doe behind me that he cares about. No move she makes goes unnoticed, which provides an alert look for his portrait.
Getting down low was an important technique for this photo. The lower camera position pushes the background farther away, which provides a stronger blur. The lower position aids in getting catchlights in the eyes and in making the buck appear regal.
He bedded for a long time, perhaps close to an hour. After getting way too many shots, I did the same. He was warmer than me.
The Sony Alpha 1 and Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS Lens were an outstanding combination for the fields and less-dense forest areas at SNP.
A larger version of this image is available here.