Canon and Sony News for Feb 2018 (Page 2)

B&H has the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder.

According to Sigma, the 14-24mm f/2.8 Art lens is scheduled to begin shipping in mid-March.

From Tokina:

Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd. is proud to announce the new Tokina FíRIN 20mm F2 FE AF, the second prime lens in Tokina’s premium lens series “FíRIN” for mirrorless cameras.

Overview
FíRIN 20mm F2 FE AF is the long-awaited autofocus version of the existing FíRIN 20mm F2 FE super wide angle lens for full-frame Sony E-mount. Adopting the same optical design as in MF model, now we offer two options for end-users to choose according to the purpose and style of shooting.

Optical performance
Being optimized for full size camera sensors in terms of size and resolving ability, the optical design adopts 2 aspherical elements and 3 lenses molded from Super-low Dispersion glass to significantly reduce any type of aberration including spherical aberration, distortion and chromatic aberration while assuring high resolution and stunning performance even at wideopen aperture.

Functionality
Keeping along with the basic development concept of the previous model FíRIN 20mm F2 FE AF is made compatible to autofocus and other functions of the camera providing perfect functionality and usability for the photographer.

Ring-shaped ultrasonic autofocus motor
For AF drive system FíRIN 20mm F2 FE AF adopts quick responsive and silent ring-shaped ultrasonic motor. Coupled with GMR sensor AF performs fast and accurate focusing.

Full compatibility to AF system
FíRIN 20mm F2 FE AF is fully compatible with Fast Hybrid AF system and all AF function settings, providing the same AF performance as with common E-mount AF lenses. Fine manual focus adjustment is also possible.

MF Assist function
Accurate focusing is supported by compatibility to MF Assist function, when fine focusing adjustment is operated by manual rotation of the focusing ring with the simultaneous interlocking with image enlarging function and bar distance display on the monitor.

Optical correction
Due to the data transmittance ability via electric contacts the camera obtains necessary data from the lens chip to correct shading, distortion and lateral chromatic aberrations. Optical corrections can be done by the camera as well.

Image Stabilization
By transmitting focal length data FíRIN 20mm F2 FE AF is able to get maximum use of In-Body Image Stabilization function of the camera.
* When in-built camera flash is used vignetting may occur. Please use external flash.

About sales release:

• Sales release in Japan: end of April, 2018 (tentative)
• Sales release worldwide: end of May, 2018 (tentative)

Lens Specifications

Feb 22, 2018 16:00 CET – Sony today announced a new flagship addition to its digital imaging range with the launch of the HVL-F60RM Flash. Addressing the needs of the increasing numbers of professional photographers switching to the Sony a system, the HVL-F60RM offers high-power flash output, reliable continuous performance and advanced control features with integrated radio control options.

The HVL-F60RM has a guide number of 60[i] and covers illumination angles from 20mm[ii] to 200mm,[iii] providing uniform wide-range zoom coverage without shading with continuous shooting up to 220v flashes. The use of heat resistant materials and the deployment of new advanced algorithms means that heat resistance has been increased by as much as 4x[iv] compared to the previous model, HVL-F60M.

Independent light output level (LEVEL -/+) buttons allow direct control of output or compensation, supporting an efficient workflow. A comprehensive display facilitates adjustments and flash output level confirmation, and also provides intuitive access to flash output settings for paired wireless flashes.

Functions can be freely assigned to the unit’s four-way controller, centre button, and control wheel for easy access when required. Furthermore, TTL flash output can be memorised and recalled in manual mode when needed for immediate use or use after minor adjustment. This is another feature that can simplify manual workflow and save time The dust and moisture resistant design[vi] of the HVL-F60RM allows flash shooting, even in challenging environments and a new optional Rain Guard[vii], product code FA-RG1, minimises ingress of water dripping into the flash and camera[viii]. Another example of the complete attention to detail that has gone into the design of the HVL-F60RM, is the metal foot of the Multi Interface Shoe connection which has been re-designed to minimise damage and increase reliability.

A pre-requisite for leading-edge studio set-ups, the wireless radio communication is non-directional so receiver flash units can be positioned anywhere up to approximately 30 metresiii away from the camera, even in situations where reflectors or other obstacles would interfere with optical communication. A HVL-F60RM mounted on a compatible camera[ix] functioning as transmitter can be paired with off-camera units functioning as receivers. Multiple flashesare supported with the user able to use up to 15 flash units, assigned in to up to 5 groups[x] or wireless flash control and the use of a pairing system effectively prevents interference from other electronic devices.

In addition to an auto white balance function that automatically adjusts for light colour in the scene being photographed, amber and green colour filters are supplied as standard and can be used to match or complement existing lighting in order to achieve natural white balance or create a specific atmosphere.

The new HVL-F60RM will be available in Europe in April, 2018 priced at approximately €700. The new FA-EBA1will be available in Europe in April, 2018 priced at approximately €300. The new FA-RG1will be available in Europe in April, 2018 priced at approximately €30.

B&H will carry the Sony HVL-F60RM Flash.

[i]200mm at ISO100 in metres
[ii]14mm with wide panel
[iii]35mm full-frame equivalent
[iv]Sony test conditions
[v] With Ni-MH batteries. Sony test conditions
[vi]Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof
[vii]Not to completely protect against water ingress. When the camera is held in the portrait orientation or at a tilt for photographing, in particular, it may fail to protect against water ingress
[viii] With this unit attached, the camera may fail to record audio during video shooting, depending on the model. For the camera models to which this precaution applies, visit http://www.sony.net/acc/rg1/.
[ix]Refer to the Sony support page for camera compatibility information. http://www.sony.net/flash/f60rm/
[x]In the Group flash mode. Up to 3 groups in the TTL or Manual flash mode

'Through The Lens' is a web docu-series presented by ADORAMA. TTL is a look at the evolving aesthetic of photography as seen through this generation's creator class.

Check out the companion article, 6 Tricks to Bring Your Food Photography to the Next Level, on the Adorama Learning Center.

From Tamron:

February 22, 2018, Commack, New York - Tamron announces the development of a new high-speed standard zoom lens for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras, the 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A036). This signals Tamron's plans to further expand and improve its lens lineup for full-frame mirrorless cameras, in addition to its lenses for DSLR and other mirrorless camera formats.

Model A036 delivers superb optical performance, including both outstanding image quality and beautiful background blur effects (bokeh). Photographers may enjoy dynamic wide-angle expressions like never before thanks to a minimum object distance of 7.5 in at the wideangle zoom setting. Usefulness and versatility are enhanced by its compact size and light weight, measuring only 4.6 in and weighing 19.4 oz. Model A036 incorporates an all-new high-speed and precise AF driving system. The RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) stepping motor unit operates with remarkable quietness, making it perfect for video use. The lens also features Moisture-Resistant Construction that is helpful in outdoor photography, plus hydrophobic Fluorine Coating that is highly resistant to fingerprints and debris. In addition, A036 is compatible with the "Direct Manual Focus (DMF)" system feature of Sony cameras, enabling this new zoom to take full advantage of the advanced functions that ensure comfortable user experiences.

Product Highlights

• Superb optical performance, including both outstanding image quality and beautiful background blur effects (bokeh), provided by fast f/2.8 aperture.
• Comfortably light weight (19.4 oz) and compact (4.6 in).
• Close-focusing; Minimum Object Distance: 7.5 in at wide-angle setting and 15.3 in at the telephoto position.
• All-new "RXD" stepping motor AF unit is extremely quiet and therefore perfect for video capture.
• Exciting next-generation design keeping the brand consistency that is ergonomically superb.
• Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating for weather protection.
• ompatible with the "Direct Manual Focus (DMF)" feature that enables Sony cameras to instantly switch between autofocus and manual focus.

B&H will carry the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Lens.

From Tamron:

New f/4 telephoto zoom lens featuring superb optical performance and a lightweight and compact body for easy portability

February 22,2018, Commack, New York – Tamron announces the launch of the 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD (Model A034), a compact telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. Model A034 provides superb optical performance throughout the entire zoom range and features a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1, the highest in its class.* The design includes an internal zoom mechanism that provides solid mechanical construction and stable, reliable operation. Model A034 also employs a Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) design, which enables high-speed and high-accuracy AF performance as well as powerful VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization for flexible and versatile use in various situations. For dependable outdoor use, the new telephoto zoom is equipped with Fluorine Coating and Moisture-Resistant Construction. The lens will be available in Canon and Nikon mounts in April at $799.00.

Product Highlights

1. High-performance telephoto zoom lens with a constant maximum aperture of F/4
Leveraging Tamron's years of knowhow developing telephoto zoom lenses, Model A034 achieves superb optical performance with high contrast and resolution. The optical construction (20 elements in 14 groups) uses three LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements to effectively compensate for axial and transverse chromatic aberrations, thereby ensuring crisp and crystal-clear image quality across the entire frame. Furthermore, Model A034 features a constant maximum aperture of F/4 throughout the entire zoom range, thus providing superior control over depth-of-field and excellent bokeh. Compared to large aperture telephoto zoom lenses, the new A034 is lighter with a weight of just 30.3 oz. and is more compact with a total length of only 6.8 in. for excellent portability. The lighter weight and smaller size make this new lens easier to carry and instantly spring into action.

2. Class-leading magnification ratio and MOD (Minimum Object Distance)
Model A034 boasts the highest-in-class maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 and the shortest-in-class* MOD of 37.4 in. The shorter working distance enables photographers to capture close-up images of small objects like flowers while using a telephoto zoom. *Among 70-200mm F/4 class interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras (as of January 2018: Tamron)

3. Highly reliable internal zoom mechanism
Thanks to an internal zoom mechanism, the physical length of the A034 does not change during zooming, thereby minimizing changes in the center of gravity and providing more stable use and operation. In addition, it's not necessary for the photographer to move backwards even when shooting space is limited, for instance, when photographing through a wire mesh fence at a zoo. So-called "zoom creep" is impossible because the overall length never extends. Furthermore, the design provides a very robust and sturdy feeling, and the non-rotating front element makes the use of polarizing filters much easier.

4. High-speed Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) control system delivers responsive autofocus performance plus outstanding VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization
The Dual MPU system includes two high-performance MPUs (micro-processor units) dedicated to VC processing and lens system control. Both MPUs have a DSP (Digital Signal Processing) block that provides high-speed digital signal processing, improving the computing power of the entire system. This new control system achieves high-speed and precise AF performance as well as assured VC effects.

Excellent autofocus performance
Model A034's AF drive system uses a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ring-type ultrasonic motor for outstanding responsiveness and to ensure fast, precise focusing. Plus, the new zoom is equipped with a Full-time Manual Focus override mechanism that enables a photographer shooting with AF to instantly make fine manual focusing adjustments without switching the AF-MF mode switch.

Outstanding vibration compensation effects
The new A034 is equipped with Tamron's proprietary VC system and achieves the CIPA image stabilization performance level of 4 stops.* Even in low light or with slow shutter speeds, photographers can enjoy shake-free handheld shooting with ease and comfort.
*CIPA Standard Compliant. For Canon: EOS-5D MKIII is used; for Nikon: D810 is used.

5. Fluorine Coating
The surface of the front element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that has excellent water-and oil-repellant qualities. The front surface is easier to wipe clean and is less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, dust, moisture or oily fingerprints, allowing for much easier maintenance. The coating also provides an enhanced level of durability, and will sustain its effectiveness for years.

6. Moisture-Resistant Construction
Seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to prevent infiltration of moisture and/or rain drops to provide Moisture-Resistant Construction. This feature affords an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions.

7. Compatible with Tamron teleconverter
The new lens is also compatible with the TELECONVERTER 1.4x (Model TC-X14) and TELECONVERTER 2.0x (Model TC-X20), which increase the focal length of the lens to 1.4 times and 2 times the original, respectively. Both teleconverters are carefully designed and constructed to provide outstanding high image quality.

8. Compatible with TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, an optional accessory
The new A034 is compatible with the optional TAMRON TAP-in Console, an optional accessory product that provides a USB connection to a personal computer, enabling users to easily update a lens's firmware as well as customize features including fine adjustments to the AF and VC.

9. Optional tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss style quick release plates
For rapid attachment to a tripod, an Arca-Swiss style tripod mount is available as an optional accessory. Featuring a hinge-type ring section, connection is easy even when the lens is mounted on a camera. To maximize the advantages of the small and lightweight F/4 zoom lens, the tripod mount is made of lightweight, sturdy magnesium alloy.

10. Electromagnetic diaphragm system now used also for Nikon-mount lenses
An electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in Nikon-mount lenses.* More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by a built-in motor through electronic pulse signals.
*Available only with cameras compatible with the electromagnetic diaphragm

Specifications

B&H has the Rokinon SP 50mm f/1.2 Lens for Canon available for preorder with free expedited shipping.

Of course, the Rokinon 50mm f/1.2 is a North & South American region-branded version of the Samyang XP 50mm f/1.2 Lens announced yesterday.

Product Highlights

• EF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
• Aperture Range: f/1.2 to f/16
• One Aspherical Element
• One High Refractive Index Element
• Ultra Multi-Coating
• Manual Focus Design
• Aluminum Lens Housing
• Nine-Blade Diaphragm

To be a successful commercial photographer (in whatever capacity), producing high quality images should be your number one priority. However, your second priority should likely be building a brand and marketing strategy. A good place to start? Your logo. It will ideally be featured on your website, letterhead, business cards and image watermarks.

In this Adobe Blog post, the Creative Cloud team offers some solid suggestions to consider when designing your logo.

Want to create a unique shape for your logo? Adobe Photoshop CC's paint symmetry feature may help. [Sean]

From the Adobe Blog:

Skim the pages of any fitness magazine and you’re likely to see a Nike Swoosh. Glance up at a billboard and you might see Mastercard’s dual circles staring down at you. Do you recognize these brands? Of course. What makes their logos work? First, recognize a logo on its own is not a brand identity, but just one part of it. Think of all the pieces of your identity together and how they can be aligned visually with your logo to make up a cohesive and effective brand identity.

Whether you’re trying to establish a new brand or get creative with one that’s already well-known, an effective logo is key. Context and style may vary from year-to-year, but the principles and best practices that guide logo design remain unchanged.

When we think about the elements of effective logos, here are some things to keep in mind.

From the Adobe Photoshop YouTube Channel:

Learn how to use Variable Radial Symmetry in this week's new episode.

Note: Try it – it's fun! :-) [Sean]

From Nikon:

Changes from Version 1.0.3 to 1.1.0

• Images can now be zoomed in and out in smaller increments.
• The standard aspect ratio for spherical 360° content is now 16:9. When images with an aspect ratio of 16:9 are viewed at 4:3, the right and left edges will not be displayed.
• Loop playback is now available with movies.
• The movie editing progress bar is now easier to use.

Download: Nikon KeyMission 360/170 Utility v.1.1.0

B&H carries Nikon KeyMission Action Cameras.

To be perfectly frank, I was less impressed by the results of the third installment of "Character Portraits" by Joe McNally and Daniel Norton (I thought Episode 1's portaits were more striking). However, there was a very interesting tip covered in this video. In order to create a gradation on the background, Joe and Daniel place a V-flat over a studio light placed on the ground. After that, the background gradation was controlled by simply changing the angle of the V-flat and its relative distance to the background. [Sean]

Other Character Portraits

• Episode 1
• Episode 2

B&H carries Profoto lighting tools.

From X-Rite:

New “Data Save” Workflow adds efficiency and flexibility

North White Plains – February 20, 2018 – X-Rite Incorporated, the world leader in color management and measurement technologies, is pleased to announce key features and updates for its recently launched i1Studio, the start-to-finish color management solution for photographers, filmmakers and designers of all levels. Perfecting your prints starts with creating the best possible printer profiles. This initial process takes time but the result is worth the effort.

The new Data Save Workflow feature in i1Studio works with your schedule. This exclusive feature is now available in i1Studio v1.1 and enables users to start the printer profiling process, pause it any time and resume automatically where they left off, providing a more efficient and flexible workflow.

i1Studio 1.1 release also includes:

• Ability to save ICC profiles in either Version 4 or Version 2
• Profile Reminders to keep display profiles current
• Optimized sepia look for Black & White profiling
• Several usability improvements and minor bug fixes

The i1Studio package comes with:

• i1Studio device – The all-in-one i1Studio spectrophotometer is the only device color perfectionists need to profile their monitors, scanners, projectors, mobile devices and printers.
• i1Studio software – The i1Studio software, based on X-Rite’s award winning i1Profiler software, provides an easy to navigate interface that delivers expertly calibrated and profiled monitors for both photo and video as well as projectors, scanners and printers.
• ColorChecker Classic Mini Target – the industry standard 24 patch target can be utilized for creating both scanner and camera profiles
• ColorChecker Camera Calibration Software – Combining the included Classic Target together with the Camera Calibration software provides photographers the ability to set a custom white balance and create a custom camera profile for virtually any lighting situation.
• ColorTRUE Mobile App for iOS Devices – A simple way to calibrate Apple iOS mobile devices utilizing the i1Studio hardware for a true mobile to desktop color match of all images.

B&H carries X-Rite i1Studio Spectrophotometers.

Roger Cicala and the LensRentals team opened up Sony's latest high resolution MILC – the a7R III – to see what weather sealing design improvements have been implemented compared to its predecessor, the a7R II.

From the LensRentals Blog:

The Sony A7R III has been out for quite a while. Generally, it’s a superbly popular camera with excellent reviews. We were busy moving to a bigger office, and then catching up from moving when it was released, so doing a teardown wasn’t high on our list of things that needed doing. And the good folks at Kolarivision did an excellent teardown, so we didn’t feel any need to rush.

We’ve dealt with a number of water damaged A7 cameras in the past and have a bit more knowledge of where the leaks have occurred, so we wanted to look for ourselves. Plus, we wanted just see all the complicated goodness inside. Now that things have slowed down we decided to take a look.

This will end up being a useful post for those of you who need to venture out into the elements with your camera. Sony has, as they said, markedly improved the weather resistance on this camera. They also left a screaming ‘leak here’ gap in the sealing that you can probably address yourself.

Want to try out a new piece of gear? Give LensRentals a try.

From Samsung:

New 'PM1643' is built on latest 512Gb V-NAND to offer the most advanced storage, featuring industry-first 1TB NAND flash package, 40GB of DRAM, new controller and custom software

Korea on February 20, 2018 – Samsung Electronics, the world leader in advanced memory technology, today announced that it has begun mass producing the industry’s largest capacity Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) solid state drive (SSD) – the PM1643 – for use in next-generation enterprise storage systems. Leveraging Samsung’s latest V-NAND technology with 64-layer, 3-bit 512-gigabit (Gb) chips, the 30.72 terabyte (TB) drive delivers twice the capacity and performance of the previous 15.36TB high-capacity lineup introduced in March 2016.

This breakthrough was made possible by combining 32 of the new 1TB NAND flash packages, each comprised of 16 stacked layers of 512Gb V-NAND chips. These super-dense 1TB packages allow for approximately 5,700 5-gigabyte (GB), full HD movie files to be stored within a mere 2.5-inch storage device.

In addition to the doubled capacity, performance levels have risen significantly and are nearly twice that of Samsung’s previous generation high-capacity SAS SSD. Based on a 12Gb/s SAS interface, the new PM1643 drive features random read and write speeds of up to 400,000 IOPS and 50,000 IOPS, and sequential read and write speeds of up to 2,100MB/s and 1,700 MB/s, respectively. These represent approximately four times the random read performance and three times the sequential read performance of a typical 2.5-inch SATA SSD*.

“With our launch of the 30.72TB SSD, we are once again shattering the enterprise storage capacity barrier, and in the process, opening up new horizons for ultra-high capacity storage systems worldwide,” said Jaesoo Han, executive vice president, Memory Sales & Marketing Team at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung will continue to move aggressively in meeting the shifting demand toward SSDs over 10TB and at the same time, accelerating adoption of our trail-blazing storage solutions in a new age of enterprise systems.”

Samsung reached the new capacity and performance enhancements through several technology progressions in the design of its controller, DRAM packaging and associated software. Included in these advancements is a highly efficient controller architecture that integrates nine controllers from the previous high-capacity SSD lineup into a single package, enabling a greater amount of space within the SSD to be used for storage. The PM1643 drive also applies Through Silicon Via (TSV) technology to interconnect 8Gb DDR4 chips, creating 10 4GB TSV DRAM packages, totaling 40GB of DRAM. This marks the first time that TSV-applied DRAM has been used in an SSD.

Complementing the SSD’s hardware ingenuity is enhanced software that supports metadata protection as well as data retention and recovery from sudden power failures, and an error correction code (ECC) algorithm to ensure high reliability and minimal storage maintenance. Furthermore, the SSD provides a robust endurance level of one full drive write per day (DWPD), which translates into writing 30.72TB of data every day over the five-year warranty period without failure. The PM1643 also offers a mean time between failures (MTBF) of two million hours.

Samsung started manufacturing initial quantities of the 30.72TB SSDs in January and plans to expand the lineup later this year – with 15.36TB, 7.68TB, 3.84TB, 1.92TB, 960GB and 800GB versions – to further drive the growth of all-flash-arrays and accelerate the transition from hard disk drives (HDDs) to SSDs in the enterprise market. The wide range of models and much improved performance will be pivotal in meeting the growing storage needs in a host of market segments, including the government, financial services, healthcare, education, oil & gas, pharmaceutical, social media, business services, retail and communications sectors. Samsung reached the new capacity and performance enhancements through several technology progressions in the design of its controller, DRAM packaging and associated software. Included in these advancements is a highly efficient controller architecture that integrates nine controllers from the previous high-capacity SSD lineup into a single package, enabling a greater amount of space within the SSD to be used for storage. The PM1643 drive also applies Through Silicon Via (TSV) technology to interconnect 8Gb DDR4 chips, creating 10 4GB TSV DRAM packages, totaling 40GB of DRAM. This marks the first time that TSV-applied DRAM has been used in an SSD.

Complementing the SSD’s hardware ingenuity is enhanced software that supports metadata protection as well as data retention and recovery from sudden power failures, and an error correction code (ECC) algorithm to ensure high reliability and minimal storage maintenance. Furthermore, the SSD provides a robust endurance level of one full drive write per day (DWPD), which translates into writing 30.72TB of data every day over the five-year warranty period without failure. The PM1643 also offers a mean time between failures (MTBF) of two million hours.

Samsung started manufacturing initial quantities of the 30.72TB SSDs in January and plans to expand the lineup later this year – with 15.36TB, 7.68TB, 3.84TB, 1.92TB, 960GB and 800GB versions – to further drive the growth of all-flash-arrays and accelerate the transition from hard disk drives (HDDs) to SSDs in the enterprise market. The wide range of models and much improved performance will be pivotal in meeting the growing storage needs in a host of market segments, including the government, financial services, healthcare, education, oil & gas, pharmaceutical, social media, business services, retail and communications sectors.

* Compared to 2.5-inch Samsung SSD 850 EVO

From the Tamron YouTube Channel:

Legendary Photojournalist Nick Ut is a self proclaimed "Lunartic" and in this video he uses his Tamron SP 150-600mm G2 to capture a silhouette of an airplane as it passes over the moon.

B&H carries the Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 Lens.

With the introduction of three L-series tilt-shift lenses in August 2017, Canon can now has the largest and most varied selection of tilt-shift lenses available in the full-frame camera market. But with so many lenses to choose from, it may be difficult to narrow one's decision own to the right choice. Therefore, we're going to explore what differentiates these lenses and what each will be good for to aid in your decision-making process. For the purpose of this comparison, we're excluding the older Canon TS-E 45mm f/2.8 and TS-E 90mm f/2.8 lenses as we're uncertain how much longer they will be available.

If you're unfamiliar with tilt-shift lenses, first check out are article, "What is a Tilt-Shift Lens?"

What These Lenses Have In Common

Aside from an L-series build quality and extremely high image quality, the standout feature of these lenses is the ability to tilt and/or shift the optics in relation to the imaging sensor. These abilities allow for a photographer to correct perspective distortion in-camera (through shift) or change the plane of sharp focus (through tilt). Note: All tilt-shift lenses are manual focus only and none feature weather sealing.

The Biggest Differentiating Factor – Focal Length

Canon's L-series tilt-shift lenses – denoted by a TS-E prefix – range in focal lengths from an ultra-wide 17mm to a moderately short telephoto 135mm. Like most lens decisions, it's important to understand which focal length will suit your specific needs best.

Possibly Important Differentiator – Macro Ability

Canon's newest tilt-shift introductions, including the TS-E 50mm f/2.8L, TS-E 90mm f/2.8L and TS-E 135mm f/4L feature an Maximum Magnification rating of 0.50x, making them very useful for a wide range of macro subjects.

Least Important Differentiators – Max Aperture and Price

Even though prime lenses typically feature notably wider max apertures than zoom lenses covering the same focal length, the max aperture for these tilt-shift lenses ranges from f/2.8 - f/4. As tilt-shift lenses are typically used in conjunction with a tripod, the up-to-1-stop difference in max aperture will likely mean little to most consumers. And while there are modest differences in prices, the difference between any two lenses is unlikely to prove sufficient to sway one's purchasing decision compared to other notable differences.

A Look at Canon's TS-E Tilt-Shift Lenses

Canon TS-E 17mm f/4L
Featuring the widest focal length found in a tilt-shift lens from any manufacturer, the Canon TS-E 17mm f/4L is ideally suited from capturing interior and exterior architecture, keeping perspective distortion at bay with the shift feature. This lens can also be useful for landscape purposes, with tilt enabling both foreground and background subjects to remain in sharp focus. Note that this lens does not natively allow for the use of front filters, so that will be a drawback for some landscape photographers. Special accessories can be purchased to enable certain filters to be used.

Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II
With a modestly longer (and ultra popular) focal length, the Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II can be used for the same subjects as that the TS-E 17mm lens is useful for, with the main differences being a moderately narrower angle of view and the ability to accept front filters. These attributes shift (pun intended) the TS-E 24's ideal uses away from interior, small room architecture to outdoor architecture and landscape photography where the use of circular polarizering and neutral density filters are often desired.

Canon TS-E 50mm f/2.8L Macro
As we continue to climb up the focal length ladder, the next Canon tilt-shift offering is the TS-E 50mm f/2.8L Macro. While it can be very useful for outdoor architecture and landscapes (the lens accepts front filters), the TS-E 50L really shines in the product photography realm, especially for medium-sized products such as clothing, home furnishings and three-dimensional art. With a 0.50x Maximum Magnification rating, small subjects can be projected half-size on the camera's imaging sensor, increasing the overall versatility of the lens. The 50mm focal length can also work well for loosely-framed portraiture, with this lens' tilt feature allowing for endless creativity in capturing selectively sharp imagery.

Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Macro
The Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Macro's focal length makes it very well suited for product photography, primarily for medium and small-sized products such as plates of food, model cars, bottles, etc. Floral photography is another great use of the 90mm focal length, especially when combined with the unique blurring effects that tilting the lens enables. Like the TS-E 50L, the TS-E 90L can be useful for landscapes and macro subjects, too.

Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro
Featuring the longest focal length found in a tilt-shift lens designed for SLR (Single Lens Reflex) photography, the Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro is likely the most specialized lens in Canon's lineup. Its medium telephoto focal length combined with tilt can help you capture very creative portraiture, assuming that manual focus is appropriate for your portrait application. Like the TS-E 90 and 50mm lenses, the TS-E 135L will often find its home in a product photographer's kit as it excels at capturing small-to-medium sized subjects all the way down to macro-sized subjects. With vast working distances available, this lens can create compelling compositions of even very large subjects.

Summary

With five L-series models in its arsenal, there's a good chance that you could find a multitude of uses for one (or several) of Canon's tilt-shift lenses. As I mentioned, the biggest differentiating factor for most will be focal length. Determine which focal length will be optimal for your intended subjects, get the appropriate model and enjoy the endless fun and creativity engendered by tilt-shift photography.

B&H carries Canon's tilt-shift lenses.

From Samyang:

An Expert Portrait Lens for Dramatic Moments
This lens, built for DSLR cameras, has a resolution of more than 50 megapixels for photography and 8K for video. The XP 50mm F1.2 manual focus lens enables you to capture those dramatic moments in perfect image quality with a bright F1.2 aperture. In particular, it optimizes for portraits, capturing the delicate change of the eye at the time of a portrait, right down to a strand of hair, and bright and beautiful skin color. You can express unconstrained depth with the bright aperture, while the 9 blades also deliver beautiful bokeh, starburst, and out-focusing effects. Also, you can even achieve high image quality in low light conditions and indoors thanks to the fast shutter speed.

Excellence in Performance
Produced from a total of 11 lenses in 8 groups, you can minimize distortion and various aberrations while producing crystal clear resolution. The special optic lenses, aspherical lens, and high-refractive lens deliver sharp and vivid images to camera sensors by effectively tuning the light path. Also, flare and ghost effects can be well controlled thanks to the ultra multi coating.

Features

• Unprecedented resolving power for above 50MP and 8K production
• Bright F1.2 aperture
• Beautiful bokeh made with 9 blades
• Minimized flare and ghost effects with Ultra multi coating

Specifications

In 2017, the median home price in America was $199,200. The UHD DIGISUPER 86, one of several Canon broadcast lens models being used to cover the Olympic Games in PyeongChang, South Korea, will set you back about 12% more than that – a staggering $222,980.

So why do Canon's 4K broadcast lenses cost so much? Popular Science recently explored that question, and you can find out the answer in their recently published article.

From Life Pixel:

With this filter you will be able to capture images like never before! After years of research and developement, we are able to bring forth a new chapter to the infrared market. The world leader in infrared conversions is once again leading the way into a new exciting experience!

What Makes This Filter So Special?

• In Camera White Balance – That's right! No more being forced into the manufacturer's RAW software. Use your in camera white balance setting (even kelvin!) and get a vast variety of tones in your images. Then bring them into photoshop, lightroom, or any other editing software you like and you are set! No color manipulation, no extensive post-production, no channel mixing! Oh yeah, we forgot to mention you can have EVEN MORE control of your black and white images with this filter!
• Natural Looking Skin – With infrared, portrait work is incredible! Skin looks creamy smooth and can make anybody look great out even without post production. The one drawback, is sometimes you want a more natural looking skin tone, well, now you got it! Portrait work is probably the strongest point with Hyper Color. Achieve more natural looking skin tones, whilst still capturing IR light to give foliage and the sky a dreamy effect.
• The Most Versatile Filter – With Hyper Color, you are really getting the most adaptable infrared filter out there! Stack on any other of our infrared filters (except Super Blue) on your Hyper Color converted camera and you will be able to achieve the exact look those filters are known for. From our Super Color (590nm) to our Deep B&W (830nm), you'll be able to take advantage of any of these styles as they will overpower the internal filter and give you the desired result without long exposure times.

Ready to try it out? Click the following link to get started: Life Pixel Hyper Color IR Conversion

Along with the previously-shared Image quality test results, vignetting, flare and distortion test results along with standard product images and eye candy (including movements illustrated) are now available on the Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Tilt-Shift Macro Lens page.

This review is my current top priority. Stay tuned.

The Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Tilt-Shift Macro Lens is in stock at Adorama | Amazon | Beach Camera | eBay | WEX.

Stock is expected soon at B&H.

San Luis Obispo, CA, 16 February 2018 – Really Right Stuff, LLC (RRS) is pleased to announce it is moving its manufacturing operations and headquarters to Lehi, Utah by the end of summer 2018. The move to a new, 2 ½ times larger building enables continued growth and allows RRS to better serve its customers.

CEO Joseph M. Johnson, Sr. commented, “Continually rising costs in California make it tough for a small business to compete in the global economy. We love beautiful San Luis Obispo, but our employees can’t afford to buy a home. The business-friendly environment and low cost of living in Lehi, Utah made it a clear choice for us to best serve our customers and employees long-term. I’m happy to see most of our employees coming with us, keeping our RRS family largely intact.”

Located 35 minutes south of Salt Lake City along the Wasatch Front of the Rocky Mountains, Lehi is an ideal location for Really Right Stuff. It is the fifth fastest growing city in the country at the center of the high tech “Silicon Slopes.” Lehi’s beautiful natural surroundings provide easy access to hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, skiing, hunting, and, of course, excellent outdoor photography that spurred the birth of RRS. Six national parks are within a 4-5 hour drive from Lehi, including Yellowstone and Zion.

B&H carries Really Right Stuff Gear.

Are you an accomplished photojournalist who is good at writing, very interested in politics and can work nights and weekends? If so, this is the job for you.

The New York Times has posted a job opening for a White House and Capitol Hill photographer.

Here are the details:

The New York Times is seeking a staff photographer who will primarily cover the White House and Capitol Hill. The ideal candidate is an experienced photojournalist committed to visual storytelling of all kinds, and must possess a deep interest in and understanding of American politics and government.

The position will be based in Washington, D.C., but will entail national and international travel.

The ideal candidate is a versatile visual journalist who is technically adept and open to working in a wide array of visual approaches and formats. This position requires diplomacy, ingenuity, and the ability to convey the world of Washington to our readers with images that go beyond press briefings and photo sprays. The ideal candidate will excel under deadline pressure and will also possess excellent reporting and writing skills, as he or she will be expected to provide not only imagery, but accurate and thorough captions and accompanying reporting.

The candidate should be an excellent collaborator and should be able to generate and execute story ideas and project proposals.

This Guild job is based in Washington, D.C., and may include night and weekend work.

The New York Times Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's sex, age, race, color, creed, national origin, alienage, religion, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation or affectional preference, gender identity and expression, disability, genetic trait or predisposition, carrier status, citizenship, veteran or military status and other personal characteristics protected by law. All applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to legally protected characteristics.

From Sony:

Tokyo, Japan — Sony Corporation today announced that it has developed a 1.46 effective megapixel back-illuminated CMOS image sensor equipped with a Global Shutter function*1. The newly developed pixel-parallel analog-to-digital converters provide the function to instantly convert the analog signal from all pixels, simultaneously exposed, to a digital signal in parallel. This new technology was announced at the International Solid-State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) on February 11, 2018 in San Francisco in the United States.

CMOS image sensors using the conventional column A/D conversion method*2 read out the photoelectrically converted analog signals from pixels row by row, which results in image distortion (focal plane distortion) caused by the time shift due to the row-by-row readout.

The new Sony sensor comes with newly developed low-current, compact A/D converters positioned beneath each pixel. These A/D converters instantly convert the analog signal from all the simultaneously exposed pixels in parallel to a digital signal to temporarily store it in digital memory. This architecture eliminates focal plane distortion due to readout time shift, making it possible to provide a Global Shutter function*1, an industry-first for a high-sensitivity back-illuminated CMOS sensor with pixel-parallel A/D Converter with more than one megapixel*3.

The inclusion of nearly 1,000 times as many A/D converters compared to the traditional column A/D conversion method*2 means an increased demand for current. Sony addressed this issue by developing a compact 14-bit A/D converter which boasts the industry's best performance*4 in low-current operation.

Both the A/D converter and digital memory spaces are secured in a stacked configuration with these elements integrated into the bottom chip. The connection between each pixel on the top chip uses Cu-Cu (copper-copper) connection*5, a technology that Sony put into mass production as a world-first in January 2016.

In addition, a newly developed data transfer mechanism is implemented into the sensor to enable the high-speed massively parallel readout data required for the A/D conversion process.

*1: A function that alleviates the image distortion (focal plane distortion) specific to CMOS image sensors that read pixel signals row by row.
*2: Method where the A/D converter is provided for each vertical row of pixels in a parallel configuration.
*3: As of announcement on February 13, 2018.
*4: As of announcement on February 13, 2018. FoM (Figure of Merit): 0.24e-·nJ/step. (power consumption x noise) / {no. of pixels x frame speed x 2^(ADC resolution)}.
*5: Technology that provides electrical continuity via connected Cu (copper) pads when stacking the back-illuminated CMOS image sensor section (top chip) and logic circuits (bottom chip). Compared with through-silicon via (TSV) wiring, where the connection is achieved by penetrating electrodes around the circumference of the pixel area, this method gives more freedom in design, improves productivity, allows for a more compact size, and increases performance. Sony announced this technology in December 2016 at the International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM) in San Francisco.

For more information, click here.

The Canon USA recently uploaded an EOS C200 and C200B Video Training Series to its YouTube channel.

Canon EOS C200 and C200B Video Training Series

• Overview (embedded above)
• Setting Up for Shooting - Part 1
• Setting Up for Shooting - Part 2
• Shooting with the Camera
• Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus Features
• Audio Setup
• Special Recording Modes & Browser
• Cinema RAW Light & Post Production

B&H carries the Canon EOS C200 and C200B Cinema Cameras.