Canon and Sony News for Oct 2017 (Page 2)

From the Canon Digital Learning Center:

by Liza Gershman

When you observe the world from a macro perspective, there is more to see than one that many photographers initially imagine. Even simple things that we see in regular life can appear more interesting, like the fine detail of lashes on an open eye as they transform into single, long black strands of mascaraed hair; the dots on a ladybug become the size of a tack, and the red cover looks more like a candy than an insect; water droplets look like diamonds, and more. Macro forces your view to shift from the large to the very very small, and in that you open yourself up to an entirely new perspective.

Don'thave a macro lens just yet? Check out our Macro Lens Recommendations to find one that's right for you!

Join Rudy Winston as he explains various features of the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

Want to know more about Canon's affordable full frame camera? Check out our extensive EOS 6D Mark II Review.

• AF Custom Functions: AI Servo AF Control (embedded above)
• AF Point Management
• AF Custom Functions: Viewfinder Display
• Maximize Image Quality
• Auto ISO
• Built-in GPS
• Video Features
• Video AF

B&H carries the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

From the Macphun (now SKYLUM) blog:

We started Macphun more than seven years ago as the team who built apps for iPhone. In the first three years, we released close to 60 different applications. Most of these apps were really far from photography.

But the biggest successes came from our photography applications. We topped more than 20,000,000 downloads with our most popular applications: FX Photo Studio, Silent Film Director, and Perfect photo.

Early in 2011, we launched our first photo software on the Mac App Store - FX Photo Studio Pro. A year later, we received our first recognition from Apple - Snapheal was named among the Best Apps on the App Store.

Since then, our products have been getting this (and similar awards) non-stop. I believe Macphun is the only photo software developer in the world to hold this recognition for five straight years in a row. We also have more “Apple Editor’s Choice” awards than most app developers on a Mac.

Throughout these years we grew and got bigger. We were driven by the idea of helping photographers on the Mac, to make stunning photos in less time.

We are still driven by this idea. But now on a much bigger scale!

We believe that photography is not about the platform or operating system you use. We believe that great photo editing and management tools should be available to you anywhere: be it on a desktop Windows machine, a Mac, in the cloud or your mobile device.

This year, for the first time ever, we have launched our products on the Windows platform. We also worked with our first enterprise clients to bring our imaging technologies to business customers around the world.

This year we have released the most advanced versions of Aurora HDR & Luminar for both PC and Mac photography communities. We’ve seen our audience grow this year to a level that is larger than the past three years combined.

The good news? We are just getting started…

We now have a vision of bringing photographers a truly worthy Adobe alternative. We feel we are among the few companies who can achieve this goal. Adobe is a fantastic company and a well-deserved industry leader. We admire them and our products work within their architecture as plug-ins. But we also have a great team, our own proprietary technology, and the community support to make a dent in that Universe.

We are changing our name to SKYLUM to reflect these changes, growth and plans.

We think that this name is a better fit, since we’re no longer a Mac-only developer. It’s also closer to where we want to go in the near future. The name change will be happening gradually. We will continue to use Macphun name this year, and early in 2018 we'll completely switch to SKYLUM.

But it’s not just about the new name…

The name is just a word if you don’t put an action behind it. We understand that!

Skylum is still small, and we will try much harder to continue our growth by putting our customers first. Luminar is not yet an Adobe alternative, and we will work hard to make it better.

We also know that photographers have high expectations and demands.We know the photo community has been confused by some of the latest changes and that some of you feel left behind. We promise that the team at Skylum will be different.

If you give us a chance, we’ll surprise you. We’ll make you happy with your new photo software. We’ll help you make incredible photos in less time. Let’s stay in touch as we grow together and welcome to Skylum Software.

Alex Tsepko, CEO of Skylum Software.

From JOBY:

Redesigned Family of Transformative Tripods Caters to Vloggers and Digital Content Creators

Petaluma, Calif. — October 23, 2017 — JOBY today announced a redesigned GorillaPod™ product line to meet the needs of modern photographers, vloggers and videographers. The modern GorillaPod family of products takes innovation to the next level by anticipating the needs of a new, growing generation of content creators, enabling them to "get a grip" on their subjects, capturing images or video how they want, when they want, with ease. The new family of products will be available for purchase in early October.

In 2006, JOBY changed photography forever by introducing the GorillaPod, bringing flexible tripods for the first time to an innovative generation of photographers. With GorillaPod, tripods could be used on varied terrain, wrapped around tree branches, or positioned on rocky outcroppings, removing limits from photography. With more than 6 million units sold, the GorillaPod is the most recognizable tripod on the market. The newly redesigned line once again breaks existing photography barriers by adding state-of-the-art features including a stainless steel reinforced ball head with 90° tilt, to perfectly shoot portrait or landscape mode for FaceTime, livestreaming and selfies.

"Photography today is changing faster than ever, and photographers are demanding more versatile solutions for their on-the-go lifestyles," said Tim Grimmer, Vice President of Brand and Product for DayMen, JOBY's holding company. "Smartphones and social media are making everyone into photographers. More than 80 million photos are uploaded per day on Instagram, and these new content creators are looking to tools like our next generation GorillaPods to deliver the shots that make them stand out from the crowd."

The new GorillaPod delivers amazing features that allow photographers to take their images to the next level. The full line enables seamless photography, whether shooting portrait or landscape, and has something for everyone – no matter which device they're shooting from: The GorillaPod Magnetic Mini (US MSRP $14.95) a portable, compact tripod with red-hot magnetic feet that enables a multitude of mounting options for your smartphone, point-and-shoot or action camera.

The GorillaPod 325 (US MSRP $24.95) this unique, flexible stand functions as a grip, tripod or wrapping mount. The next generation of the GorillaPod Original, the 325 model features a new, stainless steel reinforced ball head with 90° tilt, allowing easy transitioning from portrait to landscape modes, accommodating compact cameras and devices weighing less one pound (325 grams).

The GorillaPod 325 Magnetic (US MSRP $29.95) a lightweight, flexible tripod with red-hot magnetic feet for a multitude of mounting options for smartphones, point-and-shoot or action cameras weighing less than one pound (325 grams). This model takes all the features of the GorillaPod 325 and adds super strong magnetic feet to attach to any magnetic surface.

The GorillaPod 500 (US MSRP $34.95) is a brand new size, offering all the awesome attributes you've come to expect from GorillaPod, with the added ability to hold devices weighing up to one pound or 500 grams. This tripod is perfectly suited for compact point-and-shoot cameras like the Sony RX100 or PowerShot G7 X.

The GorillaPod 500 Action (US MSRP $24.95) is optimized for action cameras. Still lightweight and compact, the GorillaPod 500 Action supports devices up to one pound (500 grams) in weight. This model features integrated pin-joint mount and long GoPro style thumb screw to mount action cameras like the GoPro Session, GoPro Hero 5 and small format 360 cameras.

The GorillaPod 1K Stand (US MSRP $29.95) is engineered to support up to 1 kg (2.2 lbs.) of equipment. This stand supports a mirrorless camera, flash, speaker, video light or any other device with a ¼-20 tripod mount, at any angle. This flexible tripod can be used for still photography, cinematography, vlogging or live streaming.

The GorillaPod 3K Stand (US MSRP $49.95) this durable stand easily adapts to support compact DSLR, mirrorless cameras, mobile phones or heavier flashes, is engineered to support up to 3 kg (6.6 lbs.) of weight. Ideal for still photography, cinematography, vlogging or live streaming.

The GorillaPod 5K Stand (US MSRP $119.95) this professional grade flexible tripod is the top choice of leading journalists and vloggers - supporting professional camera equipment at virtually any angle, holding up to 5 kg (11 lbs.) of weight.

The BallHead 1K (US MSRP $19.95) is a professional-grade compact ballhead designed for compact mirrorless cameras and devices weighing less than 1kg (2.2lbs). Features 360° panning head and 90° tilt for precise positioning. Pairs perfectly with GorillaPod 1K stand in the GorillaPod 1K Kit (US MSRP $49.95).

The BallHead 3K (US MSRP $39.95) is JOBY's only ballhead with a built in bubble-level, precision engineered for composition control, paired with 360° panning, 90° tilt, quick release clip and the strength to support up to 6.6lbs (3kg). Pairs perfectly with GorillaPod 3K stand in the GorillaPod 3K Kit (US MSRP $79.95).

The BallHead 5K (US MSRP $69.95) is the next generation of the popular BallHead X, specifically designed for pro content creation. Featuring independent pan and tilt functionality for precise positioning, an Arca-Swiss system compatible quick release plate for quick set-up, a numbered scale to accurately replicate angles and enough power to support pro-level DSLRs and devices weighing up to 11 lbs. (5 kg). Pairs perfectly with GorillaPod 5K stand in the GorillaPod 5K Kit (US MSRP $179.95).

The GorillaPod Mobile Mini (US MSRP $14.95) is designed to hold any smartphone, regular or plus size, with or without a case. Rubberized jaws securely hold phone while flexible leg joints ensure stability on any surface. Flexible leg joints provide stability for any size smartphone.

The GripTight Action Kit (US MSRP $49.95) is a lightweight kit to keep smartphones and action cameras locked and ready for action via an integrated pin-joint mount. Mount and stand can be used together or separately. Kit includes Bluetooth® Impulse remote for added versatility.

The new line of GorillaPods continues to build on JOBY's brand leadership for both professional and amateur photographers alike, providing them with innovative, high quality tools to capture compelling shots in any scenario.

The Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD Lens is available for preorder from B&H.

From DxO:

PARIS – October 25, 2017 – DxO, one of the most innovative companies in consumer imaging, today announced the acquisition of the Nik Collection assets from Google.

DxO plans to continue development of the Nik Collection. The current version will remain available for free on DxO’s dedicated website, while a new “Nik Collection 2018 Edition” is planned for mid-next year.

“The Nik Collection gives photographers tools to create photos they absolutely love,” said Aravind Krishnaswamy, an Engineering Director with Google. “We’re thrilled to have DxO, a company dedicated to high-quality photography solutions, acquire and continue to develop it.”

“We are very excited to welcome the Nik Collection to the DxO family,” said Jérôme Ménière, CEO and founder of DxO. “DxO revolutionized the image processing market many times over the years with its innovative solutions, and we are convinced that we will continue to do so with Nik’s tools, which offer new creative opportunities for photographers. The latest version of our flagship software DxO PhotoLab, which is available as of now, is the first embodiment of this thrilling acquisition with built-in U point Technology.”

About the Nik Collection

The Nik Collection is composed of seven desktop plugins for Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop that provide a powerful range of photo editing capabilities — from filter applications that improve color correction, to retouching and creative effects, to image sharpening that brings out hidden details, to the ability to adjust the color and tonality of images. The current lineup of the Nik Collection includes:

• Analog Efex Pro: Applies film-era camera, lens, and film simulations to digital images
• Color Efex Pro: A comprehensive set of filters for color correction, retouching, and creative effects
• Dfine: Noise reduction software for camera-specific digital images
• HDR Efex Pro: Specialized program for processing HDR pictures
• Sharpener Pro: Image sharpening for digital images
• Silver Efex Pro: Black & White conversion of images with darkroom-inspired controls
• Viveza: Selectively adjusts image color and tonality without complicated masks or selections

DxO Nik Collection Website

From Sony EU:

Launching in Summer 2018

Oct 25, 2017 – 08:30 CEST – Sony today announced the development of the long-awaited FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS Super-Telephoto lens, with a target launch date in Summer 2018.

The new lens will feature the incredible high-resolution and spectacular beautiful bokeh of Sony’s acclaimed line of flagship G Master series lenses, while also offering a far-reaching 400mm focal length and F2.8 large aperture. This combination will deliver a new elevated shooting experience for all professional sports, news and wildlife photographers looking to capture all of the decisive moments with higher image quality.

Sony will continue to evolve their lens line-up in order to meet the demands of all types of photographers, videographers and multi-media creators, with many different offerings to maximise the power of the innovative a camera line-up.

Additional details and specifications on the new FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS Super-Telephoto Lens will be released at a later date.

From Sony EU:

New E-mount FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Delivers Serious Still and Video Performance with Compact Design

Oct 25, 2017 – 08:30 CEST – Sony today announced the latest addition to its expanding full-frame E-mount lens line-up, the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom (model SEL24105G).

The new full-frame lens covers the commonly used 24 to 105mm focal length range, delivering outstanding G Lens imaging performance with the most lightweight design in its class[i], maximising its versatility and usability. Therefore, the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS can be used for versatile shooting including landscapes, portraits, weddings and more. This lens also features fast, precise and quiet autofocus capabilities in both still and video shooting, making it an ideal complement for Sony’s extensive line-up of E-mount cameras.

High Optical Performance and Outstanding Resolution
Sony’s new FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS lens delivers excellent corner-to-corner sharpness throughout the entirety of its zoom range, while also producing beautifully rendered ‘bokeh’ or background defocus at all focal lengths.

This high image quality is made possible thanks to its advanced optical design featuring four aspherical lens elements, two of which are high precision AA (advanced aspherical) lenses. There are also three strategically located ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements that work in combination with the aforementioned aspherical lens elements to minimise chromatic aberration and ensure the ultimate resolution is captured.

The lens also has Sony’s original Nano AR coating to minimise flare and ghosting, and utilises a circular aperture to ensure it delivers high quality bokeh that is consistent for all Sony’s G series.

Compact, Lightweight Design and Shooting Flexibility
The new FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS lens weighs in at approximately 663 grams (23.4 oz), making it the lightest lens in its classi. When combined with one of Sony’s compact E-mount bodies, it gives photographers and videographers a far more mobile, manageable camera system that greatly increases their shooting flexibility.

In addition to the compact design and versatile 24-105mm focal length, the new lens has a minimum focus distance of 1.25ft, allowing for impressive close up detail. It also includes built-in optical image stabilisation to make it easier to produce sharp, blur-free images when shooting handheld.

Highly Advanced and Accurate AutoFocus
In order to keep up with fast-moving subjects, the new standard zoom lens features a DDSSM (Direct Drive SSM) system that is capable of rapid positioning of the lens’ focus groups with high accuracy and very minimal noise. This advanced system combined with a constant F4 aperture at all focal lengths makes the SEL24105G an excellent choice for both still and video shooting.

Further adding to its versatility, the new standard zoom lens also features a customisable focus hold button, a dust and moisture resistant design[ii] and a fluorine coating on the front element to help minimise dust, water, oil and other contaminants.

Pricing and Availability
The Sony SEL24105G Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Camera will ship in Europe in November 2017, priced at approximately €1350.

B&H preorders for the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS will begin 10:00am Eastern Time on Thursday, October 26.

[i]Compared to currently available full-frame 24-105mm F4 standard zoom lenses (October 25th, 2017, Sony research)
[ii]Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof

From Sony EU: Innovative Full-frame Mirrorless Model Offers 42.4 MP High-Resolution, 10 fps Continuous Shooting, Fast and Precise AF Performance in a Compact Body

• 35mm Full-Frame 42.4 MP[i] Back-Illuminated Exmor R CMOS Image Sensor with Evolved Image Processing
• Continuous Shooting at up to 10 fps[ii] with either Silent Shooting or Mechanical Shutter and full Auto Focus/Auto Exposure tracking
• 399 phase-detection AF points covering 68%[iii] of image area, 425 contrast AF points and approximately 2 times more effective Eye AF[iv]
• 5-axis optical in-body image stabilization with a 5.5 step[v] shutter speed advantage
• High Resolution 4K[vi] Movie Shooting with full pixel readout and no pixel binning[vii]
• Completely redesigned for professionals, including upgraded Auto Focus, Dual SD Card Slots, Extended Battery Life, SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.1 Gen 1) USB Type-C Terminal and more
• Compact, Lightweight body at only 23 oz[viii]

Oct 25, 2017 – 08:30 CEST – Sony today announced an impressive addition to their full-frame mirrorless camera line-up, the a7R III (model ILCE-7RM3).

A New Level of Image Quality
The 42.4MP high-resolution, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor utilises a gapless on-chip lens design and AR (anti-reflective) coating on the surface of the sensor’s seal glass to dramatically improve light collection efficiency, resulting in high sensitivity with low-noise performance and wide dynamic range.

Sony’s new a7R III also features a new front-end LSI that effectively doubles[iv] the readout speed of the image sensor, as well as an updated BIONZ X processing-engine that boosts processing speed by approximately 1.8 times compared to the a7R II. These powerful components work together to allow the camera to shoot at faster speeds while also enabling its impressive ISO range of 100 - 32000 (expandable to ISO 50 – 102400 for still images) and massive 15-stop[ix] dynamic range at low sensitivity settings. This ensures outstanding overall performance at all settings and in all shooting conditions.

This new full-frame model was built without an optical low pass filter to maximise resolution, while also having the ability to output 14 bit RAW format even when shooting in silent or continuous mode. The camera is equipped with an innovative 5-axis optical image stabilisation system that has been fine-tuned to support its high-resolution shooting capacity, resulting in a 5.5 stepv shutter speed advantage, the world’s highest[x] compensation performance for an image stabilisation system. There is also a new low-vibration shutter that reduces vibration and image blur in all modes, including the high speed 10 fps shooting, as well as several advancements in accurate colour reproductions of skin tones.

High-Performance AF and AF/AE Tracking at up to 10 fps[ii]
The innovative new a7R III full-frame mirrorless camera is equipped with a refined image processing system that allows it to shoot full 42.4MP images at up to 10 fps with continuous, accurate AF/AE tracking for up to 76 JPEG / RAW images or 28 uncompressed RAW images[xi]. This high speed 10 fps mode is available with either a mechanical shutter or a completely silent shooting[xii], adding to the immense flexibility of the camera. The camera can also shoot continuously at up to 8 fps[xiii] in live view mode with minimal lag in the viewfinder or LCD screen. These high speed options ensure that fast moving subjects can be captured with extreme accuracy and incredible image detail.

For added convenience, while large groups of burst images are being written to the memory card, many of the cameras key functions are operable, including access to the ‘Fn’ (Function) and ‘Menu’ buttons, image playback and several other menus and parameters[xiv] including image rating and other functions that facilitate on-location image sorting.

Additionally, if there is fluorescent or artificial lighting present in a shooting environment, users can activate the Anti-flicker[xv] function to allow the a7R III to automatically detect frequency of the lighting and time the shutter to minimise its effect on images being captured. This minimises any exposure or colour anomalies that can sometimes occur at the top and bottom of images shot at high shutter speeds.

The upgraded focusing system of the a7R III is comprised of 399 focal-plane phase-detection AF points that cover approximately 68% of the image area in both the horizontal and vertical directions. There is also 425 contrast AF points, an increase of 400 points compared to the a7R II. This advanced system delivers AF acquisition in about half the time as the a7R II in low-light conditions, with tracking that is approximately 2 times more accurate as well. The acclaimed Eye AF feature is also approximately 2 times more effective, and is available when utilising Sony’s A-mount lenses with an adapter.[xvi]

Additional improvements in focusing flexibility include AF availability in Focus Magnifier mode, focal-plane phase-detection AF support when using A-mount lenses[xvii], an ‘AF On’ button, a multi-selector or ‘joystick’ for moving focusing points quickly, flexible touch focus functionality and much more.

High Quality 4K for the Video Professionals
The new a7R III is exceptionally capable as a video camera, offering 4K (3840x2160 pixels) video recording across the full width of the full-frame image sensor. When shooting in Super 35mm format, the camera uses full pixel readout without pixel binning to collect 5K[xviii] of information, oversampling it to produce high quality 4K footage with exceptional detail and depth.

A new HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma)[xix] is available on the a7R III that supports an Instant HDR workflow, allowing HDR (HLG) compatible TV’s to playback beautiful, true-to-life 4K HDR imagery. Further, both S-Log2 and S-Log3 are available for increased colour grading flexibility. The camera can also record Full HD at 120 fps at up to 100 Mbpsvi, allowing footage to be reviewed and eventually edited into 4x or 5x slow motion[xx] video files in Full HD resolution with AF tracking.

Build, Design and Customisation for Professionals
Sony’s newest full-frame camera is equipped with a variety of enhanced capabilities that give it a true professional operational style. These include dual media slots, with support in one slot for UHS-II type SD memory cards. Users have a variety of options for storing their content, including separate JPEG / RAW recording, separate still image / movie recording, relay recording and more. Battery life has been greatly extended as well, as the new camera utilises Sony’s Z series battery that have approximately 2.2 times the capacity of the W series battery utilised in the a7R II.

The a7R III features an upgraded high-resolution, high-luminance Quad-VGA OLED Tru-Finder with approximately 3,686k dots for extremely accurate, true-to-life detail reproduction. The Tru-Finder, also found in the acclaimed Sony a9 camera, utilises a ZEISS T* Coating to greatly reduce reflections, and has a fluorine coating on the outer lens that repels dirt. It also has a customisable frame rate, with options of either 50 fps or 100 fps[xxi] to best match the action. The LCD screen has been upgraded as well, with a resolution of 1.44M dots and WhiteMagic technology that improves viewing in bright, outdoor conditions. “Standard” or “High” display quality settings are also available for both the viewfinder and monitor as well. “High” takes advantage of the large amount of data read from the 42.4MP sensor to provide extra fine viewfinder and monitor displays for a more natural view.

The new camera also offers a multi-selector joystick that provides a fast, efficient way to shift focus points, as well as an ‘AF ON’ button to activate autofocus when shooting stills or movies.

The new a7R III allows for convenient transfer of files to a smartphone, tablet, computer or FTP server via Wi-Fi, while also including a sync terminal, enabling external flash units and cables to be connected directly for convenient flash sync. A SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.1 Gen 1) USB Type-C Terminal is also available for increased flexibility in power supply or connected accessories, as well as a faster image transfer speed when connected to a PC.

New “Imaging Edge” Software Suite and Pixel Shift Multi Shooting Mode
New with the a7R III is a software suite called “Imaging Edge” that extends the creative capabilities of the entire shooting process – from pre-processing to post-processing. “Imaging Edge” provides three PC applications called ‘Remote’, ‘Viewer’ and ‘Edit’, available for free download, which support live-view PC remote shooting and RAW development.

Also making its debut on the versatile a7R III is a new Pixel Shift Multi Shooting mode, which takes full advantage of the advanced 5-axis optical in-body stabilisation to create beautiful true-to-life, super-high resolution composite images. In this mode, the camera precisely shifts the sensor in 1-pixel increments to capture four separate pixel-shifted images containing a total of approximately 169.6 MP[xxii] of image data. These four images can be composited together and processed utilising the new “Imaging Edge” software suite. This ultimately results in a still image with overwhelming resolution and an unprecedented level of colour accuracy, and is ideal for photographing architecture, art or any other still life photography subject with many intricate details and colours.

Pricing and Availability
The Sony a7R III Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Camera will ship in Europe in November 2017, priced at approximately €3500. B&H preorders for the Sony a7R III will begin at 10:00am Eastern Time on Thursday, October 26.

[i]Approximately, effective
[ii]Up to 10 fps in continuous “Hi+” mode, and up to 8 fps in continuous “Hi” mode. Maximum fps will depend on camera settings
[iii]Approximately 68% of the image area in both the horizontal and vertical directions
[iv]Compared to the a7R II, according to Sony testing
[v]CIPA standards. Pitch/yaw shake only. Planar T* FE 50mm F1.4 ZA lens. Long exposure NR off
[vi]A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required for XAVC S format movie recording. UHS speed class 3 or higher is required for 100 Mbps recording
[vii]In Super 35mm mode.
[viii]Approximately
[ix]Sony test conditions for still images
[x]Among digital cameras with a full-frame image sensor. As of October 2017 press release, based on Sony research
[xi]“Hi+” continuous mode with UHS-II compatible SDXC memory card. Sony test conditions.
[xii]Some distortion may occur with fast-moving subjects of if the camera is moved sideways rapidly
[xiii]“Hi” mode. Maximum fps will depend on camera setting.
[xiv] Not all menu parameters can be edited while data is being written to the memory card
[xv]Only 100 Hz and 120 Hz flicker is detected. Continuous shooting speed may decrease. Flicker-free shooting is not available during silent shooting, BULB exposure, or movie recording
[xvi]With SSM or SAM lenses only. Eye AF not supported for movie recording. AF-C can only be used when the “Phase detection” AF system is selected, but focus is fixed at the first frame during continuous shooting in any mode other than “Continuous: Lo” (Hi+, Hi, Mid).
[xvii]With SSM or SAM lenses only. With the LA-EA3 mount adapter. Focal plane phase-detection AF not supported for movie recording. AF-C can only be used when the “Phase detection” AF system is selected, but focus is fixed at the first frame during continuous shooting in any mode other than “Continuous: Lo” (Hi+, Hi, Mid).
[xviii]15-megapixel
[xix]Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via a USB cable when displaying HDR (HLG) movies
[xx]Sound not recorded. Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card required
[xxi]In PAL. 60fps or 120fps in NTSC
[xxii]Image size after compositing is approx. 42.4 million (7952 x 5304) pixels.

From Sigma:

2017.10.24 – The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the development of a new high-performance, large-diameter wide-angle lens, SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary.

This is the world’s first interchangeable lens for mirrorless Sony E-mount cameras in the APS-C format to offer a 24mm focal length (35mm equivalent) and F1.4 brightness. This is the large-diameter wide-angle lens for which mirrorless camera users have been waiting.

With an optical system that rivals that of interchangeable lenses for full-size SLRs, the lens features a wide variety of high-tech optical elements. SIGMA has crafted a lens that leverages optical aberration minimization via the in-camera digital correction. This lens effectively minimizes optical aberrations and offers superb resolution at wide-open aperture and throughout the aperture range. The optical design and stepping motor deliver smooth autofocus during video shooting, while the mount features special sealing creating a dust- and splash-proof design.

Release date and price: TBD
Accessory: Petal type lens hood (LH716-01)
Corresponding AF mounts: Sony E-mount and Micro Four Thirds

* The appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice

I must admit – Simon Roy's technique of building a custom perch with a hole drilled out for placing seed is absolutely brilliant, easy to do and provides great results. [Sean]

From the CreativeLive YouTube Channel:

To spark your creativity, try a new (totally doable) challenge every other week to help you discover and harness new techniques. We’ll send you an email with a video (about five minutes long) outlining simple steps and ideas for a unique portrait. Take a moment to think about your point of view and deliver something outside of your norm.

From Nikon USA:

Nikon Continues 100th Year Anniversary Celebration at Upcoming Tradeshow with Product Displays, Ambassador Presentations, Panel Discussion and More

NEW YORK, NY – Nikon will once again return to the PhotoPlus Expo in New York City, offering attendees a compelling booth experience while providing educational presentations from respected Nikon photographers and Ambassadors at the Nikon Theater. Show attendees will also be able to experience Nikon’s latest products and view a dedicated display marking Nikon’s 100th year anniversary.

Throughout the show Nikon will highlight its extensive product line, headlined by the recently announced full-frame Nikon D850 DSLR. Attendees will have the opportunity to get hands-on time with the camera as well as speak directly with Nikon product experts. A variety of NIKKOR lenses will also be on display, including the new ultra-wide zoom AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR, the AF-S FISHEYE NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED, the wide-angle AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED and the compact telephoto AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR. Also on display will be the popular AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G lenses, which is paired up with the AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR lens as part of the new Landscape & Macro 2 Lens Kit. Show attendees will also be able to go hands-on with the Nikon D7500, Nikon D5600, COOLPIX W300 cameras and a variety of other Nikon imaging products.

What’s more, to commemorate Nikon’s 100th anniversary, the Nikon booth will feature an exclusive collection of prized Nikon cameras spanning the last century.

Throughout the show, the Nikon Theater will host a variety of live presentations, plus Nikon will be sponsoring educational class sessions taught by various Nikon Photographers and Ambassadors. The presentations held at the booth will cover various topics including landscape photography, filmmaking, night photography and more. A full schedule of Nikon presentations at the Nikon Theater can be found below. Additionally, all presentations on Thursday, October 26, and Friday, October 27, will be livestreamed. Interested individuals should visit nikonusa.com/live to tune in.

Geared toward photography students and educators attending the show, Nikon and PDNedu will co-sponsor a panel discussion titled, “Creating a Sustainable Career” on Thursday, October 26 on the showroom floor from 2:00-3:30 p.m. EDT. Nikon Ambassadors Dixie Dixon, Deanne Fitzmaurice and Matthew Jordan Smith will discuss how to pursue careers in digital and photo imaging, and best practices for advancing and developing within an everchanging industry. The panel will include a Q&A session moderated by PDN Editor-in-Chief Holly Hughes, followed by a networking reception at the conclusion of the discussion.

Nikon at PhotoPlus Expo 2017

Booth #519 at The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center - 11th Ave. (between 34th & 35th St)
Thursday, October 26, 2017: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EDT
Friday, October 27, 2017: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EDT
Saturday, October 28, 2016: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EDT

Schedule of Presentations at the Nikon Theater

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 (also livestreaming at nikonusa.com/live)

10:15am – 10:45am: Doug Gordon – The Posing Project
11:00am – 11:30am: Matthew Jordan Smith – Commercial Portrait Photography – It’s All In The Details
11:45am – 12:15pm: Mandy Lea – Shedding Light on Landscapes: Doing What It Takes to Get the Shot
12:30pm – 1:00pm: Joe McNally – The Power of Portable Lighting
1:15pm – 1:45pm: Corey Rich – Shooting Powerful Video: A Filmmaker’s Personal Project
2:00pm – 2:30pm: Tamara Lackey – Photographing the Style, Soul & Laughter of Children
2:45pm – 3:15pm: Andrew Hancock – Editorial to Commercial: Versatile Storytelling in the World of Sports
3:30pm – 4:00pm: Bambi Cantrell – The Language of Light and Shadows for Impact
4:15pm – 4:45pm: Lucas Gilman – Extreme Landscapes: Discovering the Art of Time-Lapse Movies

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 (also livestreaming at nikonusa.com/live)

10:15am – 10:45am: Doug Gordon – The Posing Project
11:00am – 11:30am: Josh Cripps – Lenses of Landscape: Breaking the Rules
11:45am – 12:15pm: Andrew Hancock – Editorial to Commercial: Versatile Storytelling in the World of Sports
12:30pm – 1:00pm: Dixie Dixon – The Best Kept Secrets of a Fashion Photographer
1:15pm – 1:45pm: Jerry Ghionis – Wedding and Fashion Photography: Extreme Versatility
2:00pm – 2:30pm: Joe McNally – The Power of Portable Lighting
2:45pm – 3:15pm: Mandy Lea – Shedding Light on Landscapes: Doing What It Takes to Get the Shot
3:30pm – 4:00pm: Adam Woodworth – Alone in The Dark: Tales of A Night Photographer
4:15pm – 4:45pm: Deanne Fitzmaurice – The Heart of The Story

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2017

10:15am – 10:45am: Steve Simon – Master the Street and Raise Your Game
11:00am – 11:30am: Adam Woodworth – Alone in The Dark: Tales of A Night Photographer
11:45am – 12:15pm: Tamara Lackey – Photographing the Style, Soul & Laughter of Children
12:30pm – 1:00pm: Jerry Ghionis – Wedding and Fashion Photography: Extreme Versatility
1:15pm – 1:45pm: Corey Rich – Shooting Powerful Video: A Filmmaker’s Personal Project
2:00pm – 2:30pm: Dixie Dixon – The Best Kept Secrets of a Fashion Photographer
2:45pm – 3:15pm: Lucas Gilman -- Extreme Landscapes: Discovering the Art of Time-Lapse Movies
3:30pm – 4:00pm: Josh Cripps – Lenses of Landscape: Breaking the Rules

Be sure to visit nikonusa.com/live to view the livestream feed of presentations at the Nikon booth from PhotoPlus on both Thursday, October 26 and Friday, October 27.

Nikon 100 Year Anniversary

Since the company was established in 1917, Nikon has cultivated its status as a pioneer of optical technologies around the world. Guided by a corporate philosophy of “Trustworthiness and Creativity”, Nikon provides a wide range of products and services globally by harnessing advanced opto-electronics and precision technologies. Nikon is proud to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2017. For more information about Nikon’s 100th Anniversary, please visit www.nikonusa.com/100th.

Canon has released their finanicial results for 3Q 2017 and has also announced a special 80th Anniversary Commemorative Dividend for its shareholders. See below for more information.

• Presentation Material for 3Q 2017 (PDF)
• Speech Summary (PDF)
• Results for 3Q 2017 (PDF)
• Notice Regarding Projected Dividend – Including 80th Anniversary Commemorative Dividend – for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2017 (PDF)

Related Articles

• Canon hikes profit outlook on demand for surveillance cameras, OLED production gear (Reuters)

In the above video, photographer David Flores explains how to capture multiple exposure images using Fuji, Canon and Sony cameras. Note that while Flores explains that previewing your multiple exposure before capture is a benefit of mirrorless cameras, Canon DSLRs offer the same benefit through the use of Live View during multiple exposure capture.

If you own a camera with the ability to capture multiple exposures, you should definitely give the feature a try. You can create multiple exposures with the following Canon cameras:

• EOS 1D X Mark II
• EOS 1D X
• EOS 5D Mark IV
• EOS 5Ds / 5Ds R
• EOS 5D Mark III
• EOS 6D Mark II
• EOS 6D
• EOS 7D Mark II
• EOS 80D
• EOS 70D

Below is an image of my former neighbor I created using the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. [Sean]