Canon and Sony News for Nov 2016 (Page 2)
From Canon USA:
Join Canon USA Technical Advisor Brent Ramsey as he discusses the added features and functionality that come with the new firmware update for the EOS C300 Mark II and the EOS C300. The firmware will be available for download on December 13th at usa.canon.com.
From the Canon Digital Learning Center:
by Eric StonerSee the entire article on the Canon Digital Learning Center.In my last article “Top Tips for Small Product Photography” I shared with you some very simple techniques and ideas centered around making your product photography stand out from the pack. Whether you’re selling your products online or in person, it’s helpful to have great product photos. The problem for many is that hiring a professional photographer to do this type of work can be costly, time consuming and even more importantly, the final images may not convey your artistic vision. So the old adage of “if you want something done right, do it yourself” comes into play.
The focus of my last article was predominantly based on the premise of using natural light to illuminate your product. It’s free and you can accomplish a lot by simply using window light and reflectors.
This time around I want to expand your palette by introducing flash into the mix. There are several advantages to using flash over window light including the ability to work just about anywhere, anytime and shape the light in limitless ways to enhance your product. There’s no need to rely on daylight so for those of you who “burn the midnight oil,” this is a perfect option for you. In addition, using flash will significantly reduce the chance of blur from camera shake and with the wireless flash options that exist in the Canon system and a plethora of light modifiers available, you’ve got plenty of opportunity to be creative with your lighting.
Earlier than ever, you are being bombarded with Christmas ads. There is a reason for this and the day after Thanksgiving is called Black Friday for a reason. Retailers rely heavily on the strong Christmas shopping season sales surge that occurs at this time of the year and we want to take a moment to remind you that starting your shopping with the links on this site is what provides the much-needed support needed to keep us here serving you.
For example, click on any of the site's B&H links and buy a camera, lens, TV or ... anything. Or, click on an Amazon link and buy a case of diapers. Using the links costs you nothing extra, but provides the valuable support necessary to keep us working for you. We are very grateful for that support and count it a privilege to work for you!
I'll again share my now-annual warning: Many of products shown in the sales flyers and/or emails you will receive or have already received are not going to be great deals. Just because a picture of an item along with a price does not mean that the item is a great deal.
Before jumping on these "deals", always first check the price at B&H, Adorama, Amazon or any of the other reputable retailers included on the Support the Site page. You might be pleasantly surprised to see the price you find. Most of the online retailers we work with have already started their Black Friday deals and many very good deals are currently available. You will find the links to these deals on the retailer's home pages and the deals we have shared on the news feed are worth reviewing.
Shop online and skip the line. You will have more time to spend with family and friends and, of course, more time to spend behind the camera. Get started now and thanks for your continued support!
From the Photoshop Tutorials YouTube Channel:
There are a lot of ways to process photos in Photoshop. But not everyone uses Photoshop in the most efficient way. In this tutorial, you’ll learn common mistakes photographers make and why you should avoid it.
Just posted: Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens Review
This was a highly anticipated lens. Did it meet expectations? Read the review.
B&H has the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens available for preorder and very recently in stock in the 5D Mark IV kit.
The 24-105 L II is in stock in the EOS 5D Mark IV kit at: Adorama and The Canon Store.
This lens is currently available individually on eBay (for a premium price) and is also available there in the 5D IV kit.
From Nikon:
Nikon’s Annual Ranking Lists Michigan as Top Spot with Most Number of Stunning Foliage Photos, Besting Last Year’s Winner, New York
MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon announced Michigan (#NikonFallMI) as this year’s top spot for stunning images of fall foliage. The results were based on thousands of submissions on Nikon’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter channels, which invited passionate photographers to submit creative and colorful fall images of their state’s most beautiful locations and landscapes.
During the nationwide campaign, Nikon received more than 8,000 entries from participants across the country, as photographers who love their state contributed to a dynamic collection of America’s most gorgeous Autumn landscapes from coast to coast. Images ranged from the fiery glow of the Sycamore trees of the West to the striking bright yellow Birch trees found in the serene forests of the East.
“The beautiful fall colors and changing of the leaves offer Americans from all states unique opportunities to capture stunning scenes from the great outdoors,” said Lisa Baxt, Associate General Manager of Communications, Nikon Inc. “After a fantastic response to last year’s campaign, we were determined to once again encourage people to get outside, capture, and share images that reflect both the beauty of the season and participants’ state pride.”
Michigan earned top honors for 2016 with more than 1,600 photos submitted through various social media channels. The most remarkable photos that were shared exhibited Michigan’s stunning hills, warm inviting parks and the Great Lakes contrasted against bright reds and blazing oranges. The vibrant submissions embody the goal of the program, which encouraged people to capture the best of autumn from every state.
After being named top spot for fall foliage last year, New York (#NikonFallNY) was this year’s runner up and showcased a diverse array of beautiful images spanning from Central Park to the Adirondacks. Pennsylvania (#NikonFallPA) and North Carolina (#NikonFallNC) tied for third in this year’s campaign, as both states offered creative images of breathtaking landscapes, serene waterfalls, scenic beaches, and epic highways to crystal-clear lakes with incredible and colorful reflections.
To view of all the submissions on Instagram and Twitter, search the hashtag #NikonFall followed by the state’s abbreviation (e.g. #NikonFallMI). On Facebook, visit www.facebook.com/NikonUSA to view the fall foliage submissions.
For tips on photographing fantastic seasonal landscapes, check out Nikon’s Learn and Explore website.
Wildlife photographers can spend many days or weeks working with the same subject at the same location and, due to ever-changing behaviors of their subjects, they can continuously capture unique images. Sports photographers have unique action at every game/meet/match/race/etc. at the same field/track/event location. Street photographer are always finding new entertainment at the same locations. Wedding, event and portrait photographers have a steady stream of new subjects coming through the same locations. But you, landscape (and cityscape) photographer, usually find the same subjects in the same positions each time you go back. However, you still have reasons for going back.
Basically, you most often go back in hopes that something might be different this time.
Perhaps you didn't get it right the first time. You didn't provide adequate depth of field or didn't focus to the right distance to keep everything in the image sharp. Or, perhaps you want to use a wider aperture lens to better define the primary subject. Perhaps the focal choice was not ideal and part of the scene was cropped too tightly. Maybe you were too close or too far away and didn't get the ideal perspective. You want to move up/down, left/right or closer/farther to get it right the next time.
You now have better skills. Closely aligned with getting it right this time are your improved photography skills. You are now better at reading a scene and better able to select the composition, perhaps including a foreground element or better aligning the background within the foreground framing.
You go back to work on your creativity. The more bored you become with photographing a scene, the more likely you are going to find a creative new way to photograph it.
You go back because you have better gear. While we sometimes think that camera and lens technology is not moving forward fast enough, what is available today is far better than what was available not long ago. Taking your new camera(s) and lens(es) to a past-visited favorite location is an easy recipe for bettering your portfolio. Your higher resolution, lower noise camera and sharper lens will create results that look better, especially at high resolution. Taking a circular polarizer filter, a neutral density filter, etc. that you did not originally have can make a huge difference in your repeat visit results.
You go back in hopes for better weather conditions. You hope for better skies, a better sunrise, a better sunset, better clouds, more/less fog, less (or possibly more) wind, warmer light, etc. Everyone loves a fiery sunrise or sunset and those don't happen every day – you might need to go back repeatedly to find these. Fog? Some locations have it with some regularity, but many others have it only occasionally.
You go back because the timing is different or better. You may have better water flow, creating better waterfalls that give images a completely different look, one well worth the effort of a revisit. The seasons of the year provide a very different look to many locations. Spring brings bright green foliage and (usually) good water flow. Summer brings darker foliage and warmer weather (required for the snow to melt enough to access some areas). Late summer and fall brings amazing color to the trees in many areas. Winter brings snow, completely redecorating the landscape.
The timing of the visit also dictates the position of the celestial bodies. Go back when the sun, moon and/or stars (the milky way) are better aligned. Perhaps the sun shines between two mountain peaks at a certain time of the year. Perhaps you want to go back when the milky way is best aligned over a scene. The same applies to the moon with a specific desired phase and position.
Perhaps the scene has indeed changed and is no longer physically the same. While there are not usually macro changes occurring to landscape without a significant environmental disaster (such as a tornado, hurricane, fire, etc.), micro changes frequently happen. Trees fall, erosion occurs, sediment moves in streams during strong flows and fields have a different crop in rotation. If the scene is significantly altered, new images will be more current than those taken before the alteration. Before and after photos may be valued in this case.
Sometimes, you go back just because things can happen. Wildlife showing up can add a prize-winning element to any image.
If you are considering going back, the location is probably amazing and somewhere you love to be. That alone is a great reason to go back as just being there is awesome. There is no reason why the same location cannot be enjoyed time and time again. If you like the location that much, perhaps you want to share it with a friend or friends.
You go back because the location is a known entity. You know that it is repeatedly good for a quality image – an image worth sharing is sure to come out of the effort.
You go back for practice. If the location is relatively close to home, visiting the location to practice skills and technique prior to a big photo trip is a great idea. Unlike riding a bike, more like distance running, photography requires practice to stay in top shape. It also affords the opportunity to test the camera gear that will accompany you on the trip.
Again, a primary reason to go back is that something might be different this time and the reason that different is desirable is for, minimally, variation and, ideally, for bettering. Photographers are constantly striving to better what we have already done, to raise the bar, to take another step forward in our passion/profession.
The previous time I visited Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park, was convenient, but not so well-timed for photography. It was mid-summer (not bad in itself). The sun was high and the leaves were green. The sky was forest fire-hazy. While my cameras and lenses were the best-available at the time, they were not as good as those I'm using today. While I was happy with my results at the time, they do not hold nearly as much value to me from a photographical perspective now.
Late this past year, I was blessed with a revisit to this very photogenic location. And, the results from my revisit were much higher grade in many accounts. Though I'm missing the moose that was in my first set of images (it was so small in the frame that I didn't know it was even there until reviewing the images back at home), but my late summer (photographer's fall in this location), early morning timing for the second visit to Oxbow Bend combined with my now-current camera gear and 9-year-upgraded skillset turned in much better results this time around. I'm sharing one of my favorites with you today.
What about you? Where do you want to revisit and why?
A larger version of this image is available on SmugMug, Flickr, Google+, Facebook and 500px. If reading from a news feed reader, click through to see the framed image.
ISO 100
8543 x 5695px
Vignetting, flare and distortion test results along with specs, measurements and standard product images have been added to the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens Review page.
You are going to see some improvements here. As always, you are welcome to share your thoughts in the comments section.
B&H has the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens available for preorder and in stock in the 5D Mark IV kit.
From Tamron:
Dear users and potential purchasers of Tamron interchangeable lenses.
Thank you for using Tamron products.
We wish to notify you that we will perform updating of the firmware for our SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO1:1 VC USD (Model F017) for Canon.
Affected Models
- SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F017) for Canon
Serial number
Firmware update will not be required for lenses with these serial numbers.
Firmware Improvements
- When used in combination with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, behavior where the camera takes several seconds to start up when first switched on after mounting the lens has been improved.
- When used in combination with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, behavior where power consumption was high with the lens mounted and where the camera’s battery charge would continue to drain even when the camera was switched off and stowed with the lenses mounted has been improved.
How to update the firmware
- The firmware can be updated using the TAP-in Console (sold separately.) Using the TAP-in Console accessory, customers can update the firmware themselves.
- For those who require firmware update service, please contact your local Tamron distributor for more details.
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According to the Egami Blog Canon has filed a patent for an EF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM Extender Lens.
If I'm reading the patent details correctly, this lens would feature user selectable extender settings of 1.4x and 1.7x. This could be a really interesting addition to Canon's super telephoto lens lineup. [Sean]
Patent Details
- Patent Publication No. 2016-191761
- Published 2016.11.10
- Filing date 2015.3.31
- The main lens
- Focal length 392.57
- F-number 2.90
- Angle of view 3.15
- Image height 21.64
- Overall length 371.15
- BF 44.00
- Example 1
- The first state magnification 1.40
- The second state magnification 1.70
For today only, Amazon is offering a $20.00 discount on Prime memberships for new customers.
To take advantage of this deal, click on one of the links above and then navigate to the deal page using the "click here" link found at the top of the page (see screenshot below).
Benefits of Amazon Prime
- Free Two-Day Shipping with Amazon Prime
- Enjoy popular movies and TV episodes included with Prime (including The Grand Tour)
- On-demand, ad-free music streaming
- Over a thousand books, current issue magazines, comics, Kindle Singles, and more
- Unlimited listening to original audio series
- Get free game content every month, exclusive discounts, plus loads more
- Free unlimited photo storage
- 30-minute early access to select Amazon Lightning Deals
Fine Print: Until November 18th at 11:59 p.m., PT, eligible new members can join Amazon Prime for $79 plus applicable taxes for the first year and enjoy member-only benefits and content, including The Grand Tour. Although the price in your cart will show $99, the promotion discount will be applied at checkout. You will be charged when you place your order.
B&H has the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens in stock with free expedited shipping.
From Manfrotto:
Four stylish models suitable for different equipment configurations
Upper Saddle River, N.J. (November 17, 2016) – Manfrotto, a leading global innovator and manufacturer of premium photo, video and lighting support products and accessories, announces the launch of the Manfrotto Windsor Collection, a stylish addition to their Lifestyle camera bag offering. The Windsor Collection features genuine leather trim, premium water-repellent fabric and metal details. The interior of each model is enhanced with a tartan pattern lining. This collection was designed for photographers who enjoy traveling in comfort while having their equipment within easy reach.
Key features:
- Superb quality photography carrying solutions
- Carry gear safely, comfortably and in timeless style on field trips
- A variety of models to hold different equipment configurations
- The perfect bags to explore with – even when not taking pictures
The new Collection caters to a variety of photographic styles:
- The Manfrotto Windsor Camera and Laptop Backpack for DSLRs – a perfect choice for field trips, this bag features a removable padded internal compartment which holds a medium DSLR with up to a 70-200 mm lens attached and two additional lenses. Equipment is always at hand through the quick-access side opening, so no shot is missed. All delicate essentials stay safe in the top compartment. The internal photography insert can be removed to turn what is a camera backpack into a traditional one. A padded compartment fits a 15” laptop and two adjustable leather straps on the front of the bag keep a tripod secured.
- The Manfrotto Windsor Camera Reporter Bag for DSLRs is a shoulder bag designed to keep photography gear safe in flawless style. It fits a medium DSLR with a 24-70 lens attached, an additional 70-200 mm lens and up to two standard lenses. When photography is not on the agenda, it remains a perfect bag for everyday use. With plenty of pockets, it keeps personal items and a 13” laptop securely organized. It also features a hidden side pocket to store a water bottle and two adjustable leather straps on the front of the bag which can keep a tripod secured. An adjustable shoulder strap and shoulder pad provide additional comfort.
- The Manfrotto Windsor Camera Messenger for Compact System Cameras comes in two sizes, Medium and Small. The Medium size fits a medium DSLR with up to a 70-200 mm lens attached and two to three additional lenses. A 15” laptop is kept safe in its own padded compartment. The Small size holds a Premium Compact System Camera with a 24/70 lens and two additional lenses. It features a safe compartment for a tablet. All personal items can be safely stored on the inside and outside zippered pockets. The adjustable shoulder strap and the shoulder pad provide additional comfort. A zippered top opening gives you the ability to access your gear in the fastest way possible.
All four models are engineered with internal dividers, providing maximum protection for photographic equipment and other electronic devices. Lenses and accessories are kept safe in the special protection areas at the heart of the bags. The dividers can easily be configured to accommodate varying photography equipment requirements.
| Model # | Description | MSRP |
| MB LF-WN-BP | Lifestyle Windsor Backpack | $169.99 |
| MB LF-WN-RP | Lifestyle Windsor Reporter | $129.99 |
| MB LF-WN-MM | Lifestyle Windsor Messenger M | $139.99 |
| MB LF-WN-MS | Lifestyle Windsor Messenger S | $119.99 |
B&H carries the Manfrotto Windsor Camera Bag series.
From the Nikon Europe YouTube Channel:
In this 'Behind the Scene's clip of Nikon's 'Moment of Impact' photoshoot, sports photographer Tom Miles and BAMMA world champion mixed martial artist Tom ‘Fire Kid’ Duquesnoy explain how they worked together to create the remarkable set of split-second imagery using the Nikon D500.
Check out the images from the photoshoot here.
B&H carries the Nikon D500.
From Canon:
Thank you for using Canon products.
In rare cases, the AF function on some PowerShot ELPH 180 compact digital cameras may not operate properly and focus may not be achieved. Customer support for this phenomenon is described below.
We take great pride in the quality and performance of our products. We offer our sincerest apologies to any customers who may be inconvenienced.
Phenomenon
In rare cases, when shooting still images or movies with the PowerShot ELPH 180 compact digital camera, the AF function on the camera does not operate properly, and focus is not achieved in the captured image or movie, even if the AF frame is displayed.
Affected Products
Only some PowerShot ELPH 180 compact digital cameras are affected by this phenomenon.
The phenomenon may occur in cameras whose first two digits in its serial number are “11”, “12” ,“21”,“22”,”23” or”24”. Examples of serial numbers for cameras that may be affected: “11xxxxxxxxxx” , “12xxxxxxxxx”, “21xxxxxxxxxx”, “22xxxxxxxxxx”, “23xxxxxxxxxx”, “24xxxxxxxxxxx” (‘x’ can be any number).
If the camera has a black marking on the inside of the battery cover, as shown in the image below, this indicates that your camera has been checked and the issue has been corrected.
Support
If the camera meets the serial number criteria listed above and does not have a black marking on the inside of the battery cover, and if the phenomenon occurs and is confirmed by CUSA we will repair the unit free of charge. If you own one of the affected cameras, please contact our Customer Support Center.
If you have not already done so, please register your PowerShot ELPH 180. By registering, we will be able to notify you via email about future service upgrades.
This information is for residents of the United States and its five territories only. If you do not reside in the USA or its five territories, 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: 1-855-OK-CANON (toll free)
1-855-652-2666
TDD: 1-866-251-3752
Email: carecenter@cits.canon.com
For additional support options: www.usa.canon.com/support
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