Sony News (Page 18)

The Sony Alpha 9 III is here, and it is time to set up this camera. This powerhouse of a camera may seem daunting to set up, but the process is not burdensome and not unlike other recent high-end Sony Alpha cameras. The following steps prepare a factory-initialized a9 III for use.

1. Charge the battery
2. Record the serial number, and add the camera to your insurance policy
3. Download and install the latest version of Sony Imaging Edge or your favorite RAW image processing software.
4. Insert the charged battery and a memory card(s) (we'll format it later), and power on the camera
5. Answer the power-on prompts, including setting the time zone and date
6. Select M mode, press "Menu", and configure the camera as follows:
7. Shooting > 1 Image Quality/Rec: Image Quality: Image Quality Settings: File Format: RAW; RAW File Type: Lossless Compressed L (full image quality reduced file size)
8. Shooting > 1 Image Quality/Rec: Long Exposure NR: Off (I enable this option for very long exposures)
9. Shooting > 1 Image Quality/Rec: High ISO NR: Low
10. Shooting > 1 Image Quality/Rec: Lens Compensation: Shading Chromatic Aberration and Distortion Comp: All Off (I use the RAW processing software to enable any lens compensation with CA correction frequently selected)
11. Shooting > 2 Media: Format (ensure there are no important files on the card(s) prior to formatting)
12. Shooting > 3 File: Copyright Info: Write Copyright Info: On Set Photographer: [your name]; Set Copyright: [as desired]; Write Serial Number: On (entering this information on the touchscreen may be a painful process)
13. Shooting > 5 Drive Mode > Self-timer Type: Self-timer(Single): 2 sec
14. Shooting > 5 Drive Mode > Bracket Settings: Self-timer during Bracket: 2 Sec, Bracket order: ->0>+ (optimizes image order for HDR processing)
15. Shooting > 7 Shutter/Silent: Release w/o Lens: Disable
16. Shooting > 7 Shutter/Silent: Release w/o Card: Disable (should be the default)
17. Shooting > 10 Shooting Display: Grid Line Display: On (Rule of Thirds selected)
18. Exposure/Color > 3 Metering: Spot Metering Point: Focus Point Link
19. Exposure/Color > 6 Color/Tone: D-Range Optimizer: Off
20. Exposure/Color > 6 Color/Tone: Creative Look: NT (Neutral) Sharpness = 1 (this setting provides a low contrast histogram that better shows exposure latitude. I usually process with the default creative style in Capture One or profile in Lightroom)
21. Focus > 1 AF/MF: Priority Set in AF-S: AF (in focus is my priority)
22. Focus > 1 AF/MF: Priority Set in AF-C: AF (in focus is my priority)
23. Focus > 2 Focus Area: Focus Area: Spot: S (this setting is often changed)
24. Focus > 2 Focus Area: Switch V/H AF Area: AF Point Only
25. Focus > 4 Initial Focus Mag.:c x2.9
26. Focus > 5 Peaking Display: On
27. Focus > 5 Peaking Level: Low
28. Playback > 4 Delete: "Delete" first
29. Playback > 7 Playback Option: Display Rotation: Off (image always fills LCD)
30. Network > 7 Network Option: Airplane Mode: On
31. Setup > 3 Operation Customize: Custom Key/Dial Set.: Dial/Wheel: Front Dial: Av/Tv (Tv in M mode) (I adjust the shutter speed more frequently and urgently than the aperture and the front dial is easier to access quickly); Rear Dial: Av/Tv (Av in M mode); Rear Control Wheel: Av/Tv (Av in M mode)
32. Setup > 3 Operation Customize: DISP (Screen Disp) Set: Monitor: Uncheck For viewfinder press [enter]
33. Setup > 5 Touch Operations: Touch Panel/Pad: Both Valid
34. Setup > 5 Touch Operations: Touch Pad Settings: Shooting Screen: Touch Position Mode: Relative Position
35. Setup > 10 Sound Option: Audio Signal(Shooting): Off (how to turn off the AF beep sound)
36. Setup > 13 Setup Option: Anti-dust Function: Curtain when Pwr OFF: On (closes a mechanical shutter on power off to avoid dust on the sensor)
37. My Menu: Format, Anti-flicker Set., Steady Shot, Flash Comp., Recognition Target
38. View the menu (it is always sharp) through the viewfinder while adjusting the diopter

I make additional menu and other setting changes based on current shooting scenarios, but this list covers my initial camera setup process.

To copy this configuration means you intend to shoot as I do, including in RAW-only format. While this setup works optimally for me, you should adjust the camera to your needs.

If you can't remember your menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a great idea. Anytime the camera is set to the factory state, such as when serviced or when acquiring an additional camera, the list will ensure all settings are quickly re-established. Better still, save the camera settings to a memory card (Setup > 2: Reset/Save Settings menu: Save/Load Settings: Save) for an easy restore or replication. The setup file can be copied to a computer drive for long-term storage.

More Information

Sony Alpha 9 III

Support this site by ordering the Sony Alpha 9 III from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

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Sony's FY 2023 Q3 financial results are available on the Investor Relations page.

Presentation (track ET&S for the Entertainment, Technology & Services Segment (cameras), I&SS for the Imaging and Sensing Solutions segment)

Speech Transcript
Financial Statements
Supplementary Information
Webcast

A continued decrease in televisions sales has impacted the Entertainment, Technology & Services results. The words "camera" and "lens" do not appear in the report.

Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens firmware update version 06 is available for download.

Firmware Version 06 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Adds support for continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking up to a maximum of 120 images/second when used with the ILCE-9M3 camera body
2. Fixes an issue where, after updating to Ver. 04, the AF (autofocus) and MF (manual focus) do not work after setting the camera shooting mode to S&Q mode or 4K video mode

Get the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens at B&H.

Tamron's FY2023 Financial Results: "Achieved a new record of operating income".

"Our main photographic products business achieved high growth with a substantial improvement in profitability."

Tamron plans to introduce 6 new lens models in 2024, up from 5 in 2022 and 2023.

Updated: Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens Review.

I promised to add sample images to this review. You will find them in the focal length range discussion.

Also, four 800mm f/9 100% crops showing distant bird feather detail are now available in the image quality discussion. Remember that browsers may auto enlarge images on high resolution displays, reducing the sharpness appearance.

Please share!

Order the Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

One of the decision factors between the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z and the RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM is the strength of the background blur they can create. So, I wanted to illustrate that difference.

Head over to the just updated RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z review to see the background blur difference between 105mm f/2.8 and f/4 created using the f/2.8 lens. View both the full-size reduced and 100% crop image comparisons.

The answer is yes.

Think Tank Photo just introduced the updated Mirrorless Mover Shoulder Bag series. Featured in this update are:

• Four new and exclusive colors
• Increased front pocket volume with added organization features
• Additional adjustable dividers for a more customizable fit

The new Mirrorless Mover Shoulder Bag series is available now at thinktankphoto.com

Shop through the site's affiliate link and receive a free Think Tank product and free U.S. shipping with every purchase over $50.

Introducing: Nextorage CFexpress Type B and SDXC Memory Cards.

Add Nextorage to your preferred memory card trusted brand short list.

Support this site by ordering the Nextorage CFexpress Type B and SDXC Memory Cards (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries)

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Go big! From Canon USA:

Achieve Exquisite Prints for Photo and Fine Art with Three New imagePROGRAF PRO Series Models

New inkjet printers with LUCIA PRO II ink designed to deliver an expanded dark area gamut, excellent light resistance and improved scratch resistance over previous models

MELVILLE, N.Y., January 25, 2024 – A trio of 11-color plus chroma optimizer inkjet models for the large-format imagePROGRAF Series, the new imagePROGRAF 60-inch PRO-6600, 44-inch PRO-4600 and 24-inch PRO-2600 models, were announced today by Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions.

Designed for photography and fine art, the new imagePROGRAF PRO line features the newly developed LUCIA PRO II¹ pigment ink designed to help improve the image quality from previous models while also enhancing resistance to light. Improved black density on art paper was achieved by changing the formulation and material of matte black ink, the color gamut of the dark region was expanded by the adoption of a newly designed image table. The new ink set can also work to help produce and preserve prints as a crystalline wax has been added to the ink, giving the printed surface better resistance to abrasion-caused scratches on glossy and semi-glossy media. The reformulated Chroma Optimizer is designed to give the surface a clear coat of transparent ink that helps suppress bronze phenomena and helps reduce uneven glossiness.

“The additions of the three printers to the imagePROGRAF Series can be very helpful in regard to delivering exquisite print and impeccable details while providing excellent light resistance,” said Larry Chen, a professional car and automotive photographer and a Canon Explorer of Light since 2020. “As a photographer and imaging professional, producing the highest quality images is the upmost importance to me and my business. The PRO models can favorably recreate expressive prints while also reproducing a wide color gamut range that helps produce excellent image quality in the imagePROGRAF series.”

The new series includes a newly developed ink sensing system that periodically monitors ink ejection condition and optimizes ink landing position by detecting deterioration of ejecting condition and automatically performing alignment adjustment. The intelligent media handling function automatically detects the paper type, width and estimated remaining amount of paper, plus it completes the paper feeding process in a shorter time than previous models. The automation of this process will help ensure stable operations even in the absence of skilled or experienced personnel. The addition of LED interior lights allows users to preview prints and semi-translucent ink tank covers allows users to monitor ink tank status.

“The imagePROGRAF series has been recognized in the past many times for its outstanding performance and versatility, and this announcement continues to show our company’s on-going commitment to empowering our customers with the tools and capabilities needed to produce the high-quality content for projects with photography and fine arts,” said Shinichi "Sam" Yoshida, executive vice president and general manager of Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Additionally, Canon is launching two new fine art papers, Fine Art Etching 315 gsm, which enables fine photographic art prints that features deep black colors. Also launching is a Fine Art Baryta 310 gsm which includes a 100 percent barium sulfate (baryta) layer with elegant smooth finishes that are ideal for images with deep black and rich colors, dark room prints, and fine photographic reproductions.

Canon is proud to announce the series has earned an EPEAT Gold designation as a product that has met the most demanding set of criteria for sustainability leadership in electronics⁴. The new models contribute to companies commitment to sustainability by reducing the use of polystyrene packing materials, including 100 percent EPS free packaging in the case of the imagePROGRAF PRO-2600³. Final assembly and production for the printers is carried out at a production center in which 100% of the electricity used comes from renewable energy.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. will have the imagePROGRAF PRO-4600 and PRO-2600 models on hand at Imaging USA, the Professional Photographers of America convention, from Jan. 28-30 in Louisville, Kentucky. The Canon booth will also have new camera lenses such as the RF24-105 F2.8 L IS USM and the RF10-20 F4 L IS STM on display, along with the EOS R5 and EOS R6 II, demonstrating Canon’s breadth of offerings for printing and imaging.

Orders

imagePROGRAF PRO Series Printer at B&H.

# # #

¹ Newly developed pigment inks are 11 out of the 12 inks installed. Only matte black uses same ink as imagePROGRAF GP-4000/2000.

² When using Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum. Predicted value calculated in accordance with the indoor light resistance test method and life evaluation criteria of the digital color photographic print image preservation evaluation method (JEITA CP-3901B) published by JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).

³ PRO-6600 reduced by 58.9% and PRO-4600 by 89.5%.

⁴ An environmental evaluation system established by the Green Electronics Council (GEC), an NPO in the United States, for the purpose of market development and promotion of environmentally friendly products.

This just in from ProGrade Digital:

PROGRADE DIGITAL ANNOUNCES NEW CFEXPRESS 2.0 TYPE A GOLD LINE MEMORY CARDS

The Addition of the Gold Line CFexpress 2.0 Type A 240GB and 480GB Memory Cards Provide the Optimal Capacity for RAW Cinema-Level Video Shooting Applications

San Jose, CA January 19, 2024, 8:00 am PT — ProGrade Digital, Inc., founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces a new CFexpress™ Type A Gold-class memory cards in a 240GB and 480GB capacity. This new Gold line features the same industry-leading quality as the current ProGrade CFexpress 2.0 Type A Cobalt 160GB memory card. The Gold line has a VPG 200 rating and has an NVME host interface with PCIe Gen3 X1 interconnect. ProGrade Digital’s CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold cards are fully compliant with the CFexpress 2.0 specification and provide read speeds of up to 900MB/s, burst write speeds of up to 800MB/s, and sustained write speeds of 600MB/s – ideally suited for the highest-resolution cinema-grade video capture applications. When combined with a ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A / SDXC Dual-Slot USB 3.2 Gen 2 card reader (PG09) they provide a complete solution for transferring images and video files, enabling improvement to your digital imaging workflow.

“The introduction of our new CFexpress Type A, Gold line of memory cards - with capacities of 240GB and 480GB - provide sweet-spot storage levels and pricing to meet the needs of a wide range of still and video shooters,” said Josh Brewer, Product Manager of ProGrade Digital. “This new range of cards for ProGrade combines the necessary VPG 200 levels of video performance, with NAND technology optimized for great value and reliability.”

ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold Memory Cards:

• Maximum read speed up to 900MB/s
• Burst write speed up to 800MB/s
• Sustained write speed of 600MB/s
• Minimum sustained write speed 200MB/s
• CFexpress 2.0
• Capacity: 240GB and 480GB
• MSRP: $259.99, and $449.99 respectively

CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold Delivers:

• Fully compliant with CompactFlash™ Association 2.0 specification
• NVMe host interface with PCIe Gen3 X1 interconnect
• 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 10°F to 160°F/ -12°C to 72°C
• Packaging: Biodegradable fiber tray
• Refresh Pro ready*
• X-ray proof and shock-proof
• 3-year warranty

Orders

Get the ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold Memory Cards at B&H.

Check out the just-announced Godox V1Pro Flash, featuring up to 100 continuous shots at full power, at B&H.

Sony has announced plans for new firmware updates (though the wait is long):

Sony Electronics Announces New Firmware Updates to Cinema Line Cameras

Plans Include Updates to Cinema Line Cameras: FX30, FX3 and FX6

SAN DIEGO – Jan. 17, 2024 – Sony Electronics announces upcoming updates for the FX6, FX3 and FX30 cinema cameras at the BSC Expo 2024 in London, exhibiting its extensive range of filmmaking technology. The new firmware updates showcase Sony’s commitment to its cinema line.

The ILME-FX6 ver.5.0 firmware update is expected from May 2024 or later and will include:

• The addition of 1.5x de-squeeze function for anamorphic lenses
• Integrated high-quality 3D LUT processes inspired by the VENICE cinema camera, which allows for more accurate color processing
• Monitor & Control App v2.0 features (ex. Waveform, False color)
• Breathing Compensation Expansion: More lenses will be supported including 100-400 GM and the 200-600 G lenses

The firmware update for FX3 and FX30 is expected from September 2024 or later and will include:

• Addition of Shutter Angle: Users will be able to choose from both Shutter Speed/Shutter Angle similar to what is available with the FX6
• Ability to add clip flags to mark shots
• SRT/RTMP/RTMPS support for live streaming via the Creator’s App

The firmware updates will be available free of charge starting in May 2024 for the FX6 ver.5.0 and the FX30/FX3 updates will be available starting in about September 2024.

DJI has announced a new wireless mic system:

DJI Mic 2: Elevating Professional Audio Recording Excellence

with Unparalleled Quality, User-Centric Design, and Exceptional Stability

Jan 17, 2024 – DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announced the launch of the new DJI Mic 2, setting a new benchmark in audio recording solutions. With DJI Mic 2, creators can expect an exceptional experience, marked by high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and remarkable stability.

"DJI Mic 2 represents a leap forward in audio recording technology. We've combined high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and noteworthy stability to empower content creators with the tools they need to capture extraordinary audio, no matter where their creativity takes them," said Paul Pan, Senior Product Line Manager at DJI.

Pro Audio Recording Functions in Pocket-Size

At the heart of DJI Mic 2 lies the promise of capturing brilliance in different sounds. It's equipped with omnidirectional recording capabilities, thoughtfully optimized for vocal clarity, ensuring that the audio content of users shines in various scenarios. Whether content creators are producing engaging vlogs, conducting insightful interviews, or recording in diverse environments, DJI Mic 2 guarantees that their audio is of high quality.

DJI Mic 2 also features intelligent noise-canceling technology1, a game-changer for content creators working in bustling urban areas or crowded rooms. This innovative feature effectively reduces environmental noise, delivering clear vocals and uninterrupted audio recordings. Regarding windy or fast-moving scenarios, DJI Mic 2 has included windscreen to lower wind noise, ensuring clean sound capture in windy outdoor scenarios.

As an added layer of protection for the user's audio, DJI Mic 2 offers the Safety Track feature. It allows content creators to record a second track at -6dB alongside the primary audio track, safeguarding against unexpected audio level spikes. Even in the midst of audibly complicated environments such as rock concerts, DJI Mic 2 delivers balanced results with remarkable ease.

User-Friendly Design for a Seamless and Intuitive Experience

DJI Mic 2 is not just developed with technical advancement, but also designed with users in mind. Its sleek and smart aesthetic is elevated by a premium metal charging case that not only has a minimalistic appearance but also offers a newly added locking latch, which provides a secure and reliable solution to prevent accidental drops for peace of mind during use.

To suit the style and preferences of different users, DJI Mic 2 is available in two transmitter colors: Shadow Black and Pearl White2. Shadow Black adds a discreet, high-tech appearance to the Mic 2 setup, while Pearl White offers an elegant alternative for those seeking a light-tone colorway.

When it comes to getting started, DJI Mic 2 simplifies the process. The system is ready to use anytime, anywhere. Users can just open the charging case, and DJI Mic 2 will then spring to life, automatically pairing the receiver and transmitters while charging them. Additionally, DJI Mic 2 can be seamlessly connected to DJI Osmo Action 4, DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and smartphone devices3 via Bluetooth, while also offering hassle-free compatibility with various recording devices through USB-C, Lightning Adapters, as well as 3.5mm TRS analog output.

DJI Mic 2 also puts control at the fingertips of the user with its effortless touchscreen operation. A 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen paired with a precision dial provides quick access to critical information. Content creators will be able to adjust volume, gain, brightness, and more with ease, achieving the optimal audio setup smoothly.

With magnetic attachment for quick concealment, the transmitters feature a user-friendly clip-on design that simplifies the process of attaching them to clothing. DJI Mic 2 even offers dual-channel recording, allowing content creators to capture audio from two sources simultaneously, simplifying multi-source recording and enhancing efficiency during post-production.

To further expand the creative horizons of the user, DJI offers practical accessories4 such as the DJI Lavalier Mic and DJI Mic 2 Charging Case.

Stability and Reliability in Every Recording

Stability is a hallmark of DJI Mic 2, ensuring that the audio recordings of the user are consistently outstanding. DJI Mic 2 is equipped with 8GB of internal storage per transmitter, offering up to 14 hours of uncompressed 48kHz 24-bit audio recording5. This ensures that content creators can record for extended periods without worrying about storage constraints.

DJI Mic 2 stands out significantly due to its cutting-edge 32-bit float internal recording6 capability. This feature not only delivers high-quality recording but also adapts seamlessly to complex sound environments, capturing nuances of sounds, from quiet whispers to booming decibel levels. This level of flexibility provides greater reliability in erratic noise scenarios and offers more options for post-production fine-tuning.

When it comes to range and battery life, DJI Mic 2 shines. It offers an impressive maximum audio transmission range of up to 250 meters7 (820 ft.) in open, unobstructed environments without interference. This range caters to common scenarios such as live streaming, studio recording, and outdoor recording. Plus, each transmitter and receiver has a remarkable 6-hour operating time8, which can be extended to a generous 18 hours with the charging case, making it perfect for extended content creation sessions.

Price and Availability

The DJI Mic 2 is available to order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, with shipping starting today, in the following configurations:

The DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) retails for $349, and includes a DJI Mic 2 Receiver, two DJI Mic 2 Transmitters (Shadow Black), a DJI Mic 2 Charging Case, DJI Mic 2 Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Type-C), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Lightning), two DJI Mic 2 Windscreens, two DJI Mic 2 Clip Magnets, a DJI Mic USB-C Charging Cable and a DJI Mic 2 Carrying Bag.

The DJI Mic 2 (1 TX + 1 RX) retails for $219, and includes a DJI Mic 2 Receiver, a DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Shadow Black), a DJI Mic 2 Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Type-C), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Lightning), a DJI Mic 2 Windscreen, a DJI Mic 2 Clip Magnet, a DJI Mic Splitter Charging Cable, and a DJI Mic 2 Carrying Pouch. The DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Shadow Black) and DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Pearl White) can also be purchased separately at $99 each. The DJI Lavalier Mic retails at $39 and DJI Mic 2 Charging Case retails at $69.

Orders

Get the DJI Mic 2 at B&H or Adorama.

Footnotes:

1. Intelligent noise canceling of DJI Mic 2 cannot be enabled when the transmitter is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

2. Both the DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) combo and the DJI Mic 2 (1 TX + 1 RX) combo come with transmitter(s) in Shadow Black. DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Pearl White) is sold separately.

3. The transmitter needs to be worked with third-party video recording software when connected to smartphones via Bluetooth. For more details on compatibility, refer to the product page on the official DJI website.

4. Sold Separately.

5. Each transmitter has 8 GB of internal storage to store up to 14 hours of uncompressed 48kHz 24-bit audio.

6. Internal recording of DJI Mic 2 cannot be used when the transmitter is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

7. Measured with FCC compliance in an unobstructed environment without interference (160 m under CE). This data is for reference only. Actual transmission distance may vary depending on the environment.

8. Tested with both transmitters connected to the receiver, without backup recording, and the receiver connected to a camera with the Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS).

Check out the tiny X nano S Touchscreen TTL Wireless Flash Trigger that Godox just introduced — order it at B&H.

From Think Tank Photo:

Designed for the photographer who has a lighter kit and wants a smaller less bulky bag, the BackLight Sprint is a slim, lightweight backpack that is ideal for hiking or treks around town.

Despite its slim profile, the pack will hold a standard-sized camera body and the trifecta of zoom lenses. A minimal but plush harness systems provides comfortable, all-day carry and two large side pockets each fit a 32 oz Nalgene water bottle or can be used to carry a tripod.

KEY FEATURES:

• Back-panel access to your camera gear without taking the pack off, allowing you to work out of the bag without getting your harness dirty, wet, muddy or icy
• Slim, lightweight backpack for the minimalist photographer
• Front pocket offers 2 liters of capacity for personal gear and opens vertically on the right side for easy access without taking off the pack

Check out the new compact Backlight Sprint Backpack at Think Tank Photo.

Just posted: Canon RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Review.

This lens fills a void in the Canon lineup. I intend to add sample photos to this review.

Please share!

Support this site by ordering the Canon RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.

Just posted: Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens Review.

Note that the review still needs sample photos added. Wildlife has been uncooperative, but I didn't want to hold back the rest of the review for that matter.

Please share!

Order the Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

For infrequent, casual underwater photography, it is challenging justify the cost, carry and storage size and weight, and maintenance of an underwater housing for your DSLR or mirrorless camera, especially when the phone already in your pocket is said to be "waterproof".

When reading your smartphone's specifications, you may learn that it (such as an iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max) is "Splash, Water, and Dust Resistant³ — Rated IP68 (maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes) under IEC standard 60529"

But, you always follow the footnotes, and ³ teaches you that the:

"iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are splash, water, and dust resistant and were tested under controlled laboratory conditions with a rating of IP68 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes). Splash, water, and dust resistance are not permanent conditions. Resistance might decrease as a result of normal wear. Do not attempt to charge a wet iPhone; refer to the user guide for cleaning and drying instructions. Liquid damage not covered under warranty." [Apple]

As you know, "water resistant" is not "waterproof". This footnote suggests that getting an underwater housing to protect the expensive phone is a smart move, and a phone in a relatively compact underwater housing is a great option for the infrequent, casual underwater photography goal.

Now, AquaTech teamed with Joby to create a new underwater phone housing to meet this need. From Joby:

JOBY SeaPal

The Premium Waterproof Phone Case that Unleashes Your Creativity Underwater

• A complete ecosystem for smartphone content creation underwater, encompassing outdoor, adventure travel, surfing and other water sports
• Compatible with iPhone 12 / 13 / 14 / 15 and Samsung Galaxy S22 / S23
• Designed by AquaTech: water housings manufacturer for the world’s best ocean creators for over 20 years

JOBY – the reference brand for content creator gear that empowers creators and helps uplift their creativity announces the launch of the JOBY SeaPal: a premium waterproof phone case designed in partnership with AquaTech that takes content creation to new levels, unlocking new creative possibilities to produce stunning footage in and around water.

JOBY has always focused on uplifting the potential of content creators who dream big, supporting their creative journey with a product ecosystem that simplifies content production, making it faster and better while having fun. The launch of the JOBY SeaPal waterproof phone case marks the introduction of an additional creative playground for expert creators, combining JOBY’s deep understanding of the content creators’ needs with AquaTech’s technical know-how of ocean photography for guaranteed reliability.

Fully compatible with iPhone 12/13/14/15 and Samsung Galaxy S22/S23, JOBY SeaPal is the safest ecosystem for smartphone content creation, dedicated to surfers looking to capture epic, wave-riding shots, creators who want to share the beauty of coral reefs or mobile travel vloggers engaged in water activities such as kitesurfing, jet skiing, snowboarding or waterpark adventures. Additionally, JOBY SeaPal is the perfect companion for expert creators on the go who don’t have space to carry bulky, waterproof camera casings or want a quicker alternative to an action camera.

Designed by AquaTech to ensure waterproof, shockproof and dustproof capabilities, JOBY SeaPal allows creators to trust their phones are fully enclosed and protected at all times without fear of damage.

The new JOBY SeaPal collection not only includes the phone case (case depth rated to 10m / 33ft with glass lens port), but also a Bluetooth shutter grip, and a quick release split water dome port with cover, that enables the creation of breathtaking content both above and beneath the water’s surface.

Above water, the clear soft membrane means users can maintain full control of their phones, allowing full navigation of the screen as normal. Below the water surface, the Bluetooth Shutter Grip establishes a connection with the phone to ensure that no action shots are missed.

With JOBY SeaPal, JOBY and AquaTech have created a reliable and versatile ecosystem that empowers mobile content creators to deliver exceptional content whilst enjoying their journey out in the water.

The JOBY SeaPal Collection consists of:

SeaPal Waterproof Case - $239.95 / £219.99
SeaPal 6" Dome - $199.95 / £169.99 [a great option for split under/over water shots]
SeaPal Bluetooth Shutter Grip - $159.95 / £139.99
SeaPal GoMount - $17.95 / £15.99
SeaPal 6" Dome Cover - $19.95 / £16.99
SeaPal Sports Leash - $19.95 / £16.99

The JOBY SeaPal Waterproof Case for Smartphone is in stock at B&H.

What is the best underwater smartphone case? The JOBY SeaPal Waterproof Case for Smartphone is a great option. A low end option is the AquaTech AxisGO, and a high end option is the SeaLife SportDiver Underwater Housing for Smartphones.