Sony News (Page 14)
The Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens and I hung out with these fawns for a couple of hours this week.
White-tailed deer fawns are at the top of my most adorable animal list, and white-tailed deer fawn bokeh also works well.
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Sony ZV-E1 firmware update version 1.01 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Improved the operational stability of image stabilization.
Support this site by ordering the Sony ZV-E1 at B&H.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics Expands the Range of Shooting Expressions with the High Imaging Power and AF Performance of the FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II Lens™
“FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II" telephoto zoom lens with compact and lightweight design; World's firsti half-macro shooting with a maximum magnification of 0.5x throughout the zoom range.
SAN DIEGO, CA – July 12, 2023. Today, Sony Electronics introduces the telephoto zoom lens "FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II" (product name SEL70200G2) that covers focal lengths from 70 mm to 200 mm with a F4 maximum aperture, compatible with 35 mm full-frame a™ (Alpha™) E-mount series and any camera with an E-mount.
The FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II is a compact, lightweight telephoto zoom lens that can be used in a wide range of situations. Not only does the FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II contain high imaging power, high-speed and high-performance AF that are unique to G lenses, this is the world’s firsti zoom lens to offer half macro capability throughout the zoom range, with a maximum magnification of 0.5xii throughout. In addition, with a teleconverter (sold separatelyiii), super-telephoto shooting up to 400 mm and life-size 1:1 macro shooting throughout the entire zoom range is possibleiv.
"We are excited to introduce the versatile 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II to our already incredible lineup of lenses. For both photographers and videographers, the new lens provides the ultimate lens in a compact, lightweight form that is a qualified telephoto coupled with macro capability throughout the focal range and a maximum aperture of F4 for any shot demanding shallow depth of field and creamy bokeh,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc.
This launch marks Sony’s 50th full-frame E-mount lensv. Since the first lens Sony has remained committed to supporting the creative activities of photographers and videographers by bringing together the latest technologies and expanding the E-mount lineup that covers both full-frame and APS-C size formats.
Compact, lightweight and compatible with a teleconverter
With a total length of 149 mm and a weight of approximately 1.7 lb (excluding the tripod mount), the FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II is a zoom lens that can be used for a wide range of purposes, including sports scenes, landscapes, wildlife, and even macro photography.
Shooting from 70 mm to 200 mm, the lens also enables the world’s firsti half-macro shootingii, with a maximum magnification of 0.5x throughout the zoom range. The advanced aspherical lenses contribute to uniformly excellent corner-to-corner resolution and contrast. In addition, ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass suppresses chromatic aberration.
It also supports a high-performance teleconvertervi (sold separatelyiii). With a super-telephoto of up to 400 mm (equivalent to 600 mm when using with an APS-C camera)iv, it can capture distant subjects in a larger size, along with beautiful bokeh. When the SEL20TC is attached, it is possible to take macro shots at up to 1:1 over the entire zoom range.
Fast autofocus and excellent video recording performance
Sony's unique XD (extreme dynamic) linear motor increases the autofocus speed by up to 20% during still image shootingvii. Tracking performance for moving objects has improved approximately twice as much compared to the previous modelvii, so it continues to track the target subject with high accuracy. Focus tracking performance during zooming has also been greatly improvedviii. When paired with the flagship a1 body, it is possible to shoot high-speed bursts at up to 30 frames per second.
In addition, a new MODE3ix setting of SteadyShot has been added that optimizes the camera shake correction algorithm, emphasizing framing stability when shooting moving subjects. By combining it with a compatible camera body, the user can more effectively compensate for camera shake and shoot stable movies.
Intuitive operability and high reliability for most conditions
The FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II provides intuitive and secure operability that supports photographers and videographers. In addition to a focus range limiter and a full-time DMF switch that instantly switches from AF to MF (manual focus), the detachable tripod mount included in the box provides a sense of stability during super-telephoto and macro shooting.
In addition, the front lens element features a fluorine coating, which makes it easy to remove fingerprints, dust, oil, and other contaminants from the lens surface. The dust and moisture resistant design provides extra reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditionsx and expands the freedom of shooting.
Pricing and Availability
The new FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II will be available for pre-order starting July 13, 2023, for MSRP $1,699.99 USD and $2,299.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers.
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS II Lens from B&H | Adorama
Product Video
Notes:
i As of July 2023 product announcement. Sony’s survey.
ii When using a 35mm Full-frame sensor camera. In the case of using an APS-C sensor camera, 0.75x equivalent magnification throughout the zoom range in the 35mm format.
iii 1.4x Teleconverter Lens “SEL14TC” and 2.0x Teleconverter Lens “SEL20TC”
iv With “SEL20TC”
v As of July 2023 product announcement.
vi Maximum aperture with the 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters is F5.6 and F8, respectively.
vii Compared to SEL70200G, Sony’s test conditions
viii Compared to SEL70200G, when shooting stills, Sony’s test conditions.
ix A software update may be required. See Sony’s support page on the web for camera compatibility info.
x Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics Releases Next-generation APS-C Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera "a6700” with Simultaneous Release of Versatile Compact Shotgun Microphone ECM-M1
High-precision subject recognition by AI and the latest still image and video performance are condensed into a compact APS-C body for the first time
SAN DIEGO, CA. July 12, 2023 - Today, Sony Electronics announces the release of its newest APS-C mirrorless camera, the a6700. This new offering combines the cutting-edge still image and video capabilities found in the latest full-frame Alpha™ and Cinema Line series with the compact and lightweight design of the a6000 series, resulting in Sony’s most advanced APS-C mirrorless camera to date.
Combining an APS-C back-illuminated Exmor R® CMOS image sensor boasting 26 effective megapixels with the speed and power of Sony’s advanced BIONZ XR® processing engine, the a6700 achieves exceptional imaging performance while maintaining a compact and lightweight design.
The camera supports high-resolution 4K video recording at up to 120fpsi, a wide latitude of 14+ stopsii for capturing details in harsh or under-lit conditions and features the S-Cinetone™ picture profile found in Sony’s professional Cinema Line for refined movie imagery that doesn’t require color grading, and it delivers stunning representation of human skin tones. For videographers and vloggers, Sony simultaneously releases the ECM-M1 shotgun microphone, capable of high-quality sound with eight sound pickup modes including stereo.
"With the release of the a6700, Sony continues its commitment to elevate the abilities of creators everywhere and at every level by empowering them with state-of-the-art tools that enable their creativity to relentlessly move forward. Sony will continue to expand its APS-C line-up to cater to and support image production activities of a diverse array of creators," says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc.
Highly accurate subject recognition with AI
The latest APS-C size, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor boasts approximately 26 effective megapixels, paired with our advanced BIONZ XR engine for exceptional imaging performance. Standard ISO sensitivity spans 100 to 32000 for both stills and movies, allowing high-sensitivity, low-noise shooting. Enhanced color reproduction ensures subjects like people and plants are captured with natural hues, while Creative Look features allow unique visual expressions.
The AI processing unit is inherited from the a7R V, enabling high accuracy "Real-Time Recognition AF (autofocus)." Beyond the a6000 series' human and animal recognition, it now accurately identifies various subjects such as human, animal, bird, insect, car/train, and airplane, catering to diverse creative expressions. When paired with today's newly launched FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS IIiii, it offers 105 mm to 300 mm focal lengths in 35mm full-frame equivalent, leveraging the power of telephoto zoom for high-quality shooting. Additionally, it's compatible with a broad array of E-mount lenses, and Sony’s E-mount lenses covering full-frame and Cinema Line cameras with a single mount.
Excellent video performance compatible with 4K120pi
Harnessing data equivalent to 6K, the a6700 outputs superior 4K video, including support for high-frame-rate recording at 4K 120fps. It features S-Log3, offering a latitudes of 14+ stopsii, for stellar gradation. Also equipped with S-Cinetone, the a6700 offers impressive skin tone depiction and subject highlighting, technologies honed through our Cinema Line development, while its AI-driven Auto-Framingiv smoothly tracks subjects, eliminating the need for manual camera movement. The body houses a Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe compatible with digital audio interfaces. Used in conjunction with the new ECM-M1 shotgun microphone, it allows for direct digital audio transmission, capturing high-quality, undegraded sound.
Mobility, operability, and connectivity unique to a compact and lightweight device
With a compact design (approx. 4 7/8 × 2 3/4 × 3 in. and weighing about 1 lb 1.4 oz.v), the a6700 is highly portable. It has a user-friendly, touch-operable vari-angle LCD monitor, coupled with a modern touch menu for effortless operation. Customizable front dial and a switching dial for still images, movies, and S&Q modes are also featured. It is also equipped with optical 5-axis in-body image stabilization system with 5.0 stopsvi of shutter speed advantage for stills and an Active Modevii ensures stable footage.
In terms of connectivity, the camera now supports the Creators' Appviii for seamless uploads of videos and still images to cloud services. Sony also plans to roll out a new version of the "Camera Remote SDK" in July 2023, allowing remote operation and setting adjustments.
Environmental conscious and accessibility
Recycled materials, including SORPLASTMx, are used throughout the camera body, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing functionality. Over the past 10 years, Sony has replaced approximately 379 tonsix of virgin plastic with recycled plastic in digital cameras and digital video cameras.
In addition, it is equipped with Sony’s Screen Reader functionxi that reads menus and video playback screens aloud to assist operations, supporting the creative activities of a wide variety of creators.
Main features of shotgun microphone ECM-M1
The ECM-M1 is the world's first shotgun microphone with eight dial-selectable audio recording modelsxii. With 4 microphone capsules and unique beamforming and advanced digital processing technology, it offers varied modes including stereo. Its ultra-directional mode captures targeted sound from the front (within a 30-degree width) and at the same time effectively suppresses other sounds, dynamically adapting to ambient sound in the surroundings. This mode is ideal for interviews and selfie-oriented scenarios where the subject is always in front of the microphone.
A newly added mode dial with a locking mechanism ensures easy, secure switching of sound pickup modes. The ECM-M1 features noise reduction utilities like a noise cut filter for reducing background noise and a low-cut filter for minimizing vibration and low frequency noise. These filters are implemented through digital signal processing, maximizing audio quality at the recording stage and thereby reducing the need for complex post processing. It also supports 4-channel recording (compatible cameras only), allowing safety recording in omnidirectional mode on channels 3 and 4, while channels 1 and 2 focus on selected directivity.
Compact and lightweight, the ECM-M1 enhances mobility, empowering creators to capture high-quality audio in diverse situations. Simply clip the microphone into the Multi Interface Shoe on a compatible camera for direct power and audio connections without the need for extra cables or batteries. When connected via the Multi Interface Shoe of a compatible camera that features a built-in digital audio interface, the audio signal is directly transferred to the camera in digital form so that no degradation can occur. A simple switch also provides compatibility with a wide range of cameras using an analog interface.
Pricing and Availability
The new a6700 will be available in 2023 at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers:
a6700 camera only: MSRP $1399.99 USD, $1899.99 CAN
a6700 “L” kit w/PZ1650: MSRP $1499.99 USD, $1999.99 CAN
a6700 “M” kit w/18135: MSRP $1799.99 USD, $2399.99 CAN
The new ECMM1 microphone will be available for MSRP $349.99 USD and $469.99 CAN.
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Sony a6700 from B&H | Adorama
Order the Sony ECM-M1 Compact Camera-Mount Digital Shotgun Microphone from B&H | Adorama
Videos
Launch Video:
Camera Product Feature Video:
Mic Product Feature Video:
Short Video:
Notes:
i QFHD (3840×2160). About 38% of the angle of view is cropped.
ii When shooting S-Log3. Sony internal measurement.
ii For details on the FE 70-200MM F4 Macro G OSS II, please see the press release announced on July 12, 2023. URL: XXXXXX
iv Valid only in video mode. The angle of view is narrowed because it is cropped from a 4K resolution image.
v Weight includes battery and memory card.
vi CIPA standard compliant, Pitch/Yaw direction, with FE 50 mm F1.2 GM attached, long exposure noise reduction off.
vii In Active Mode, the shooting angle of view is slightly narrower.
viii 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.
ix According to Sony research. Recycled materials used for product body and accessories from April 2012 to March 2022.
x SORPLAS™ may not be used for the parts used depending on the production period.
xi Supported languages differ depending on the sales region.
xi As of the July 2023 press release. Sony research. As a camera microphone.
Briefly, the Badlands National Park skies produced a nice show this evening, complete with the clouds seeming to match the ground texture. While I like the photo, the experience was even better.
See the sheep standing on the leftmost peak? We were in location for the sunset photo when this bighorn sheep ewe showed up on the ridge immediately to our right.
Then, it ran down the side of the cliff and ran up the one it is shown on. The sheep's ability to navigate the steep, slippery terrain at speed is incredible.
Experiences like these happen when you spend time in the right places. A second sheep is bedded on the tall peak close to the center of the image, and two more are walking between the two. Also impressive is that all four sheep stood still for a one-second exposure.
The optically impressive Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens got the call for this sunset. With clouds covering most of the sky, the odds of good sunset color were low. However, that scenario meant the entire sky could light up brilliantly, and I wanted ultra-wide angles of view ready to capture as much color as possible.
A small opening in the clouds created a light show that made 12mm a highly welcomed option. The Sony Alpha 1's ultra-high resolution makes the distant sheep easily recognized when the image is viewed large.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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Just Posted:
Sachtler aktiv10 Fluid Head Review
Sachtler flowtech 100 Tripod Review
This Sachtler kit is expensive, but the quality of the movements it enables and its fast setup speed are worth the price to serious videographers.
Support this site by ordering the Sachtler aktiv10 Fluid Head and flowtech 100 Tripod from B&H or | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX
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From 3Pod:
3Pod Debuts Everest Series of Carbon Fiber Tripods and Accessories at Adorama
3Pod’s New Series Feature Two 4-Section Carbon Fiber Compact Tripods and Two Arca-Type Ball Heads
NEW YORK, NEW YORK (June 27, 2023) – 3Pod today announced the Everest Series - a line of Carbon Fiber tripods and accessories designed to support photographers and videographers in any location and on any adventure. Featuring two 4-Section Carbon Fiber quick-release compact tripods and two Arca-Type Ball Heads, the new accessories give creators the tools they need to capture their vision with no bounds or restrictions.
The 3Pod Everest Carbon Fiber tripods and accessories are covered by a 5-year warranty and are available now exclusively at Adorama.
“The new 3Pod Everest Series is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, making any content-capture adventure possible,” said Usher Sperber, Product Manager for 3Pod. “Our mission is to aid and inspire photographers and videographers at every level through innovative design, durability, and easy-to-use systems. Whether you’re in a studio, on the streets, in rugged terrain or on top of a mountain, our product solutions will meet your needs without breaking the bank.”
3Pod Everest Series 4-Section Carbon Fiber Compact Tripods Equipped with Carry Case:
Made with 10X carbon fiber, the toughest travel 3Pods provide superior strength, and an innovative detachable center column design for compactness and extreme low angle performance. The lightweight tripods perform dependably in any environment and allow for still photography in the studio or shooting on location.
• Everest T3 4-Section Carbon Fiber Compact Tripod (MSRP $399.95) – Ultra-lightweight and designed for travel and adventure photographers, supporting up to 33lbs with a working height of up to 5.3ft.
• Everest T5 4-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod (MSRP $699.95) – The toughest workhorse with superior strength and stability for photographers and videographers, supporting up to 55lbs with a working height of up to 6.6ft.
3Pod Everest Series Ball Heads with Arca-Type Quick Release and Lever-Release Clamps:
The ball heads employ state-of-the-art ergonomic design, damping for flawlessly smooth movement and jitter-free panning. The two bubble levels assure absolute alignment in any three-dimensions. At the base of the head, the convenient inscribed 360-degree dial makes for easy, perfect positioning throughout the ball head's full range of panoramic movement. They are equipped with an innovative flip-lock clamping quick-release plate that lets users rapidly lock and release cameras with one hand.
• Everest H2 Ball Head (MSRP: $199.95) - Load Capacity up to 33lbs
• Everest H4 Ball Head (MSRP: $349.95) - Load Capacity up to 55lbs
Get the 3Pod Everest gear at Adorama.
From Sony Electronics
Sony Electronics Announces Free ZV-E1 Upgrade to Elevate Content Creation
4K 120p Upgrade Now Available for Users
SAN DIEGO, June 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics announces an upgrade for the ZV-E1, the world's most compact and lightweight full-frame interchangeable lens camerai, offering video creators maximum creative freedom and versatility. Announced in March of this year, the ZV-E1 is designed to offer the ultimate video creation experience.
With this new upgrade, the ZV-E1 joins a roster of Sony cameras featuring 4K 120p video recording, including the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III, and the FX6, FX3, and FX30 from Sony's Cinema Line. This feature enables faster high-speed frame rate video recording, resulting in smooth slow-motion footage that is five times slower than standard 24fps, highlighting Sony's commitment to providing groundbreaking technology for all creators.
The upgrade also introduces Full HD 240p recording capability to the ZV-E1, providing even more flexibility for the video creator.
The original release of the ZV-E1 showcased impressive video performance with the ability to record high-quality 4K video at 10-bit 4:2:2 with full pixel readout, without pixel binning, and with minimized rolling shutter. This latest upgrade further enhances the camera's video capabilities and is unlocked through Sony's Creators' Cloud platform.
Sony's Creators' Cloud, designed for content creators of all types, offers services and applications optimized for the entire creative process, from shooting to collaboration with creators worldwide. This integration includes the Creators' App, a mobile application that facilitates seamless content transfer from camera to cloudii.
Completing the ZV-E1 upgrade via the Creators' Cloud is a simple process. Users sign into their Creators' Cloud account, access the Upgrade page, input their ZV-E1 model serial number, and download a free license. Installation can be performed via an SD card or with a USB plug-in. With the Creators' Cloud platform, users can also easily manage and reinstall licenses via the License Management pageii. A Sony Creators' Cloud account is required to access the license to upgrade.
Upgrade is available as of today, June 28, 2023, via the Creators' Cloud application at no additional cost to Alpha ZV-E1 users.
For more information about the ZV-E1 upgrade, please visit Sony's official website: https://creatorscloud.sony.net/cameraupgrade/4k120p/.
Get your Sony ZV-E1 at B&H.
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.
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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.
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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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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.
ISO 100
5760 x 8640px
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).
ISO 640
6554 x 4371px
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