Canon and Sony News for May 2012 (Page 2)

In an AP article posted at Yahoo! News, Canon discloses plans to build fully automated digital camera production lines.

"TOKYO (AP) — Canon Inc. is moving toward fully automating digital camera production in an effort to cut costs — a key change being played out across Japan, a world leader in robotics."

"If successful, counting on machines can help preserve this nation's technological power — not the stereotype of machines snatching assembly line jobs from workers, Jun Misumi — company spokesman, said Monday."

"The move toward machine-only production will likely be completed in the next few years, perhaps as soon as 2015, said Misumi, although he declined to give specific dates."

Canon emphasizes that no jobs will be cut due to this automation.

From Canon USA:

To Users of the EF200mm f/2L IS USM and EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM Lenses with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera.

Thank you for using Canon products.

We have confirmed that when the EF200mm f/2L IS USM and some units of the EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM lenses are used with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera, the Lenses may emit an abnormal noise.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera does not need to be repaired as a result of this phenomenon.

The support measures for this phenomenon have been decided and they are as described below.

Phenomenon

If either of the Lenses is attached to the camera with the Image Stabilizer switch on the Lenses set to ON, the Image Stabilizer will synchronize with the autofocusing (AF) function and an abnormal noise may occur. This abnormal noise does not affect captured images.

This phenomenon only occurs when the camera is used with either of the Lenses, and does not occur when the camera is used with other lenses.

Affected Products

EF200mm f/2L IS USM Lens
EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM Lens

*This phenomenon does not occur with cameras other than the EOS 5D Mark III.

*If the fifth and sixth digit of the six-digit alphanumeric number that is imprinted on the lens mount of the above EF lenses is of any of the following numbers, the lens is affected.

EF200mm f/2L IS USM: If the fifth and sixth digit is 00, 01, or 02.
EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM:If the fifth and sixth digit is 00, 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, or 06.

How to Identify Affected Products:

Please check the six-digit alphanumeric number as indicated in the image below.

Support

The Canon Lenses affected by this phenomenon will be inspected and repaired free of charge starting from May 21, 2012. If you own one of the affected lenses, please contact our Customer Support Center.

This information is for residents of the United States and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.

Thank you,
Customer Support Operations
Canon U.S.A., Inc

Contact Information for Inquiries
Canon Customer Support Center
Phone: 1-800-OK-CANON, 1-800-652-2666
TDD: 1-866-251-3752
Email: carecenter@cits.canon.com
For additional support options: www.usa.canon.com/support

ISO 12233 Resolution Chart results have been added to the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Lens Review page.

PocketWizard has revealed their firmware release plan for support of new products (primarily DSLRs).

CPN has posted a Brutus Östling interview focusing on photographing birds with the Canon EOS-1D X.

Adobe has announced that Creative Cloud is now live. Sign up by August 31st and get introductory pricing of $29.99 per month for the first year.

Nikon has posted their Fiscal Year 2012 Financial Results.

From Canon USA:

Canon EOS 5D Mark II and EOS 7D Digital SLR Cameras of Choice for Stunts and Action Work on Set of “Marvel’s The Avengers”

1920 x 1080 HD Recording And 24p Frame Rate

Enable Gripping Point-Of-View Shots for Theatrical Filmmaking

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., May 9, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce that its EOS 5D Mark II and 7D Digital SLR cameras have been used on the set of Marvel’s latest movie, “Marvel’s The Avengers,” to capture thrilling point-of-view (POV) action shots that can be seamlessly intercut with footage from the film’s principal 35mm and digital cinematography cameras to heighten the film’s visual impact. “Marvel’s The Avengers” shows an epic confrontation between nightmarish super villains attacking the Earth and the super-heroic team of Iron Man, Captain America, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Hawkeye and Black Widow. Directed by Joss Whedon, the film is the latest and most extraordinary Marvel Studios Super Hero movie to date.

With intense action and visual effects captured by the Canon cameras, “Marvel’s The Avengers” required close-quarter action work with unrepeatable stunts. “The 5D Mark II and the 7D digital SLR cameras produce excellent, cinema-worthy images. They are great for shooting additional angles that give film editors more options for creating powerfully immersive and kaleidoscopic views of action scenes,” explained the film’s cinematographer, Seamus McGarvey.

On the set of “Marvel’s The Avengers,” McGarvey and his crew used five Canon 5D Mark II cameras and two 7D models. Using multiple cameras limited the need to re-shoot complex action scenes, and the affordability and compact size of the cameras enabled the crew to obtain ample coverage by strategically angling them from various vantage points throughout the set. “The cameras’ small size was a major advantage to us. We were able to place them in tight locations that were really close to the big stunts, which would be too risky to do with bigger cameras that would require an operator and two assistants,” McGarvey said. He was able to slide one of the Canon cameras into a sewer grating, while placing another under a pile of debris for a key shot of a car hurtling toward the lens, flipping through the air on fire.

“We are thrilled that the EOS 5D Mark II and 7D Digital SLR cameras were called to action on the set of ‘Marvel’s The Avengers.’ We designed these cameras with versatility and flexibility in mind, and their ability to record beautiful 1920 x 1080 HD video, coupled with their compact size, make them an ideal fit for filmmakers looking to capture tight action shots,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

Compact, lightweight, and compatible with Canon’s wide selection of EF Series lenses, the Canon

5D Mark II and EOS 7D digital SLR cameras are equipped with large Canon CMOS sensors and Canon DIGIC 4 image processors that enable them to record exceptional full 1920 x 1080 HD video at the user-selectable frame rate of 24p (23.976 fps), which is the standard for today’s high-end filmmaking. Additionally, the cameras’ low-light capabilities were of major importance on the set of “Marvel’s the Avengers,” as many of the film’s scenes were shot at night.

Lens vignetting, distortion and measurement results have been added to the Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens Review page.

Flare testing is on hold pending a clear sky.

Sample images have been added to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Review.

As usual, some of the images have tips included.

Head over to Lensrentals.com to see their new site. Looks great.

Firmware Update A 1.12, B 1.10 is now available for the Nikon 1 V1 (USA | Europe) and Nikon 1 J1 (USA | Europe).

Modifications enabled: "An issue that caused some frames to be duplicated in slow-motion movies recorded at a Frame rate setting of 1200 fps has been resolved."

From Canon USA:

CANON U.S.A. PARTNERS WITH LEGENDARY FILMMAKER RON HOWARD FOR YEAR TWO OF THE “LONG LIVE IMAGINATION” CAMPAIGN

The Multi-Platform Campaign Launches May 7, 2012, as an Extension of “Project Imagin8ion,” The First User-Generated Photo Contest in History to Inspire a Hollywood Film

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., May 7, 2012 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, has created a new partnership with two-time Academy Award® winner Ron Howard for year two of the brand campaign, “Long Live Imagination.” The partnership, launching May 7, 2012 with a digital campaign, comes on the heels of Ron Howard and Canon U.S.A.’s highly successful “Project Imagin8ion,” the first user-generated photo contest in history to ultimately inspire a Hollywood short film.

For year two of “Long Live Imagination,” a new television commercial will debut on May 14, 2012 and will showcase the eight winning photographs of “Project Imagin8ion,” teasing “Ron’s Next Project.” Viewers will also be encouraged to visit www.youtube.com/imagination, the updated online hub featuring a personal message from Ron Howard taken from the set of his current film project, Rush. The print campaign will launch on May 28, 2012 and details of the new consumer contest will be revealed in summer 2012.

In May of 2011, Ron Howard and Canon U.S.A. invited photographers of all levels to submit their most imaginative photographs based on a series of movie themes for an unprecedented user-generated contest, “Project Imagin8ion.” The contest entry categories represented eight distinct story-telling elements – like setting, character and goal – that would ultimately shape the film.

After receiving nearly 100,000 submissions, Ron Howard selected eight winning photographs to inspire his next production which was directed by his daughter, Bryce Dallas Howard. “When you find me,” was shot using Canon cameras including the new Cinema EOS System and DSLR cameras and lenses. After the world premiere in November 2011, the film screened at Sundance, South by Southwest and Tribeca film festivals. It was also shown in theaters across the country including the hometowns of the eight local winners. The 30-minute film will make its exclusive television debut – commercial free – on IFC on Monday, May 21 at 8PM, ET/PT.

“I loved the concept behind ‘Project Imagin8ion,’ a very pure experiment that showcased the power of still images on narrative story-telling,” said Ron Howard. “I’m excited about what’s on the horizon as I partner with Canon for year two of this fantastic creative adventure.”

“The success of the ‘Project Imagin8ion’ campaign was unprecedented and we are thrilled to align once again with Ron Howard for the next iteration of this journey,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

Grey New York, Canon’s agency partner for over thirty years, is developing the creative and digital elements of the multi-phase campaign. Alliance, the activation and public relations division of Grey, is managing the partnership with Ron Howard as well as the promotional, event and public relations efforts.

Adobe Photoshop Camera Raw 7.1 Release Candidate is now available for download.

Camera support in Camera Raw 7.1 RC includes:

• Canon EOS-1D X
• Canon EOS 5D Mark III
• Canon EOS 60Da
• Canon PowerShot G1 X
• Nikon D4
• Nikon D800

Lightroom Journal has more information.

The following information was provided by Adobe:

Adobe CS6 Launch

• Upgrade versions will only be available on Adobe.com for US, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, and Australia!
• Design Premium and Web Premium is becoming a single product for CS6 "Design and Web Premium"
• CS6 Ship Date (English, Americas, and European versions): May 7, 2012
• CS6 Ship Date (Rest of the world): May 10, 2012

The following products are now available in version CS6 with pre-orders beginning today:

• CS6 Design & Web Premium
• CS6 Design Standard
• CS6 Master Collection
• CS6 Production Premium
• After Effects CS6
• Adobe Audition CS6
• Dreamweaver CS6
• Fireworks CS6
• Flash Professional CS6
• Illustrator CS6
• InCopy CS6
• InDesign CS6
• Photoshop CS6
• Photoshop CS6 Extended
• Adobe Premiere Pro CS6
• SpeedGrade CS6
• Creative Cloud Membership
• Adobe Muse
• Adobe Story Plus -- Not available for pre-order

Order your CS6 upgrade at Adobe.com

ISO 12233 resolution chart results have been added to the Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens Review page.

I have two of these lenses right now. Unfortunately, the first lens I received needs to go back.

After spending 10 hours or so completing testing the lens on the ISO chart, it became clear that the lens was not working properly at the longer focal lengths. Image quality was unacceptable at 70mm. Tamron confirmed that the results were not as they expected.

The second lens performs much better optically. These are the results now presented on the 24-70 VC review page.

Before making your purchase decision, I encourage you to wait for me to spend more time evaluating the Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens' AF performance. Neither of the two lenses I have autofocus accurately on the test chart using a Canon-calibrated EOS 1Ds Mark III. I will minimally test the second lens behind a second calibrated 1Ds III and a 5D III.

Stay tuned for more information.

From Redrock Micro:

Redrock Micro Launches New ultraCage & ultraBase for Video-Capable DSLR Cameras

Awesome Additions Reflect New Generation of Support for a New Generation of Video-Enabled Cameras

Hollywood, CA and Dallas, TX – Redrock Micro, the recognized leader in affordable professional-level cinema accessories, today launched the new ultraCage DSLR and ultraBase support for video-enabled DSLR cameras. The ultraCage DSLR has been called an essential accessory for converting the DSLR camera body into a movie-making production powerhouse.

Next Generation Support for the New Generation of Video DSLRs

Video DSLRs have arrived as legitimate filmmaking tools. Groundbreaking cameras like the Canon 5D MKIII and the new Nikon D800 deliver advanced movie features and outstanding results. However, the form factor of DSLRs severely limits the stability of shots and the ability to adapt accessories that are commonplace for high-quality filmmaking. Redrock products have evolved along with DSLRs and now offer the best solutions for shooting high quality movies with DSLR rigs.

Professional-level Support and Stability

The ultraCage DSLR delivers rock-solid support and stability for DSLR cameras. The ultraCage secures the camera body at three points: screws into the camera base, fastens to the top hot shoe and locks the camera in place with the anti-rotation pin. The ultraCage supports a wide variety of DSLR bodies and has been tested with the Canon 60D, 7D, 5D MKII, 5D MKIII, and Nikon D800/ D800e camera bodies. You will not find a support cage anywhere that is more stable, functional or reliable.

The ultraCage DSLR adds industry-standard 15mm bottom rails for accessories such as a mattebox, follow focus or lens support. The built-in 15mm top rail support is great for adding accessories you want to keep with your camera on every setup, such as camera-top monitors or remote focus motors.

The cage surrounds the camera with 22 mounting holes (standard 1/4" and 3/8") that are perfect for attaching and positioning virtually any other accessory available. The ultra Series of accessories from Redrock can extend the ultraCage with extended top and bottom rails, triple the mounting points and additional mounting plates for advanced accessories such as external batteries, external recorders, audio units and remote focusing.

In addition, the powerPack Universal accessory delivers a powered cage option so all camera-top accessories and the camera itself can be powered from a single, long-lasting source using an external battery.

The ultraCage DSLR and ultraBase are ideal for the following types of users:

• Professionals using DSLRs for filmmaking
• Enthusiasts looking to get better results from video DSLRs
• Amateurs who want something they can start simple with and grow
• Steadicam, riggers, camera/jib operators needing rock-solid support and stability
• Anyone looking for better support for their video DSLR

Slim, Contoured Design Molds to DSLR Body, Adds Features Without Bulking Up

Unlike other offerings, the ultraCage curves with the camera's contours and doesn't make it any larger than absolutely necessary. All doors and features are completely accessible, and the cage is unobtrusive enough to stay on the camera even when shooting stills. The precision-machined aluminum housing and available carbon fiber rods keep things light without sacrificing strength.

The Foundation for Any Shooting Style, from Handheld to Studio

The ultraCage DSLR can be used to create any type of rig, from handheld to full studio. Redrock offers pre-built bundles for handheld, shouldermount, and studio setups based on the original ultraCage. Using Redrock's family of 400+ cinema accessories and building blocks, virtually any rig can be created to fit your shooting style and budget. With the ultraCage DSLR, your camera can now take advantage of Redrock's ultra Series of advanced support accessories for sleek, sophisticated camera setups.

The ultraCage DSLR Advantage

The Redrock ultraCage DSLR and ultraBase are the only professional-level camera support to deliver all these key advantages:

• Superior support and stability for DSLR cameras
• Form-fitting and lightweight contoured design promotes small, fast shooting style
• Top & bottom 15mm rails and 22 mounting points for accessories
• Retains access to all DSLR buttons and doors
• wireLock protects and converts HDMI output to full size HDMI supported connector
• Cage provides 360 degrees of protection for your DSLR
• Build any rig you want with Redrock's family of ultra Series and cinema accessories
• Can be used for handheld, studio or rigging, and can fast-change between setups.
• Confidence in gear that comes with lifetime warranty and is made in the USA.
• Incredibly affordable professional-level gear - starting at $595.

For More Information

Product details can be found on the ultraCage DSLR and ultraBase at store.redrockmicro.com/Catalog/ultraCageHandheldRigs/ultraCage-DSLR

Pricing and Availability

ultraCage DSLR and ultraBase are shipping starting mid-May, and are available from Redrock direct at store.redrockmicro.com and from authorized Redrock Micro resellers worldwide. ultraBase starts at $299, ultraCage DSLR starts at $595.

B&H carries Redrock Micro gear.

CPN has posted The Making of the EOS 5D Mark III ‘Radball’ Movie, showing how scenes were captured and talking about the Canon EOS 5D Mark III's video capabilities.

From Think Tank Photo:

Three Travel-Specific Backpacks Coming Soon!

In May, we will release the Airport™ series, a new line of travel-specific, high-capacity camera backpacks designed with maneuvering through airports quickly in mind. The three backpacks – the Airport Accelerator, Airport Commuter, and Airport Essentials -- integrate quick access pockets for both laptops and iPad, a top pocket for boarding passes, and three robust handles to ensure easy placement and retrieval from overhead bins.

The Airport™ series makes life easier for the traveling photographer. All meet international carry on size requirements. The two smaller bags, the Airport Commuter and the Airport Essentials, are designed to fit under-seat in regional commuter planes.

Their light, adjustable, contoured harness provides comfort along with lumbar support. The air mesh paneling keeps backs cool. The height-adjustable sternum strap allows for the perfect fit. A removable waist belt, side water bottle pocket, tripod/ monopod mounting system and seam sealed rain cover extend their versatility.

Adding even more functionality, these backpacks can be used with Think Tank’s Pro Speed Belts for additional support and capacity by adding component pouches and cases from the company’s Modular Rotation Component System.

The three sizes allow photographers to select the best fit for their needs.

Airport Accelerator accommodates two pro size DSLRs, six to eight standard zooms, a 500 f/4.0, iPad, and up to a 17” laptop. The largest of the three, this one has a padded removable waist belt.

Airport Commuter accommodates a pro size DSLR, four to six standard zooms, (increased depth holds a 400 f/2.8), iPad and 15” laptop.

Airport Essentials accommodates a standard DSLR, four to six standard zooms, iPad, and up to 13” laptop.

Features include:

• Bottom hinge opens bag completely for quick and unencumbered access.
• Cable lock and locking YKK zipper sliders for added security.
• Laptop and iPad stored in a separate locking zippered compartment.
• Light, comfortable and contoured harness system.Tripod/monopod mounting system.
• Top zippered pocket for boarding pass.
• Removable waist belt for additional stability when walking, running, etc.
• Easily accessible front organizer pocket.
• Seam sealed rain cover included.

Specifications

Airport Accelerator

Exterior Dimensions: 14” W x 20.5” H x 9” D (35.6 x 52.1 x 22.9cm)
Interior Dimensions: 12.5” W x 18.8” H x 6.8” D (31.6 x 47.8 x 17.3cm)
Laptop: 12.3” W x 17.5” H x 1.5” D (31.2 x 44.5 x 44cm)
Weight: 4.8-5.5 lbs (2.2-2.5 kg)
MSRP: $279.95 (U.S.)
Product Page URL: http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/airport-accelerator.aspx

Airport Commuter

Exterior Dimensions: 12.5” W x 18” H x 8.5” D (31.6 x 45.7 x 21.6cm)
Interior Dimensions: 11.5” W x 16.3” H x 6.8” D (29.2 x 41.4 x 17.3cm)
Laptop: 11” W x 16” H x 1.3” D (27.9 x 40.6 x 3.3cm
Weight: 3.6-4.2 lbs (1.7-1.9 kg)
MSRP: $199.75 (U.S.)
Product Page URL: http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/airport-commuter.aspx

Airport Essentials

Exterior Dimensions: 11.5” W x 18” H x 7” D (29.2 x 45.7 x 17.8cm)
Interior Dimensions: 10.6” W x 16.3” H x 5” D (27 x 41.4 x 12.7cm)
Laptop: 10” W x 15.5” H x 1” D (25.4 x 39.4 x 2.5cm)
Weight: 3-3.6 lbs (1.4-1.6 kg)
MSRP: $175.75 (U.S.)
Product Page URL: http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/airport-essentials.aspx

The latest Canon EOS 5D Mark III bodies being shipped have a correction in place to solve the light leak issue.

Roger Cicala at LensRentals.com shares the fix.

During the month of May, order a Think Tank Photo Airport Roller from Think Tank Photo and receive a free Artificial Intelligence Laptop Sleeve, a $59.00 value.

The Airport Roller Series are among TTP's best sellers and include:

Airport Security V2.0, Airport International V2.0, Airport Airstream, Airport TakeOff

There is a reason why these cases are best sellers. They are very well designed and very well built. Think Tank Photo sent me an Airport Security V2.0 for my recent Florida trip. I carried a Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM Lens, Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens, Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Lens, Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III and many other accessories in it.

I very highly recommend the Airport Security V2.0. The other rollers are equally well designed and built.

From DxO:

"DxO Optics Pro v7.2.3 has already integrated 70 DxO Optics Modules for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and 26 Modules for the Pentax K-01."

More information

B&H carries DxO Optics Pro.

Adobe Camera Raw 6.7 (full release version) is now available for download. (thanks Will)

Lightroom Journal has the full details on this update.