Canon and Sony News for Feb 2018 (Page 2)
The Canon Digital Learning Center has posted several articles on the newly announced Speedlite 470EX-AI flash and EOS M50 MILC.
Canon Digital Learning Center Articles
- What's New: Speedlite 470EX-AI -- Basic Information
- What's New: Added Control with Speedlite 470EX-AI's Personal Functions
- What's New: Speedlite 470EX-AI's Revolutionary A.I. Bounce
- What's New: EOS M50 Autofocus
- What's New: 4K Video on EOS M50
Preorder the Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI and EOS M50 here.
Join Canon U.S.A.’s Rudy Winston as he illustrates the benefits of the new Speedlite 470EX-AI, the world’s first flash with an Auto Intelligent Bounce function* that automatically sets the optimal bounce angle so you achieve amazing flash results indoors.
The Canon EOS M50 and Canon EOS Rebel T7 pages are full of information about and expectations for these new cameras.
Check them out and share them with friends!
Recently announced Canon gear is available for preorder at the following retailers:
Canon EOS M50 MILC - B&H | Adorama
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR* - B&H | Adorama
Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash - B&H | Adorama | Wex
* Preorders for the EOS Rebel T7 were unexpectedly unavailable at announcement time. Links will be updated when they become available.
From Canon USA:
MELVILLE, N.Y., February 25, 2018 – Upgrading from a smartphone camera to an entry-level interchangeable lens camera (ILC) can be considered to some people a daunting task. Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, supports those looking to advance their skills by continuously developing and evolving its gear. Today, the company announced their latest additions to its all-encompassing lineup of digital cameras: the EOS M50 Interchangeable Lens Camera, the first Canon EOS M-series camera with 4K video recording which is four-times the size of full HD 1080, and the EOS Rebel T7, the latest addition to the wildly popular EOS Rebel line of entry-level DSLR Cameras, with an upgraded CMOS sensor to deliver sharp, high-resolution images to capture life’s key moments.
For photographers actively seeking to upgrade their skills, the EOS M50 is an all-around, entry-level camera with an extensive list of user-friendly features that encourages users to broaden their creative visions. Providing improved Dual Pixel CMOS AF, a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor resulting in less noise and high definition in low-light situations, and the capability of recording 4K video, the EOS M50 will capture crisp, photographic expressions in various situations.
“Our core goal when developing new entry-level interchangeable lens cameras for our consumers is to meld high-quality features and usability together. In listening to our customers, we believe we have achieved this goal with both the EOS M50 and EOS Rebel T7, ” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “With enhanced features for photographers of all skill levels to enjoy, both cameras demonstrate Canon’s commitment to developing and manufacturing best-in-class quality imaging solutions.”
Additional features of the EOS M50 include:
- New DIGIC 8 Image Processor
- HD 120p High-frame video rate
- Built-in OLED Electronic Viewfinder with Touch and Drag Autofocus
- Vari-Angle LCD touchscreen
- Wi-Fi*, NFC** and Bluetooth connectivity***
- Automatic image transfer to compatible devices while shooting*
- New Silent Mode
The EOS Rebel T7 DSLR camera, featuring an upgraded CMOS sensor of 24.1 megapixel resolution, is the successor to the EOS Rebel T6. Offering easy sharing of high-quality photos and videos on social media sites, the EOS Rebel T7 provides continuous shooting up to 3.0 frames per second (fps), a nine-point autofocus system and a three-inch LCD monitor, offering users a multitude of options to capture and share life’s important moments.
Additional features of the EOS Rebel T7 include:
- Built-In Wi-Fi* and NFC** connectivity
- Scene Intelligent Auto Mode
- Optical View Finder
For an additional cost, both products are also eligible for the reliable protection of CarePAK PLUS, Canon’s optional service plan, which includes accidental damage protection and Image Recovery, designed to retrieve irreplaceable images or videos otherwise lost or corrupted. CarePAK PLUS, along with all Canon camera service plans, is performed exclusively by Canon’s renowned service and support team.
The Canon EOS M50 is scheduled to be available in April 2018 for an estimated retail price of $779.99^ for the body only. The EOS M50 will also be available with the EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens in both black and white for an estimated retail price of $899.99^. Additionally, the EOS M50 will be sold with the EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM and the EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM in black only for an estimated retail price of $1,249.00^. A Video Creator Kit will also be available for the EOS M50 for an estimated retail price of $999.99^.
The EOS Rebel T7 is scheduled to be available in April 2018, and will be sold as a lens-and-body kit with the EF-S 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 IS II for an estimated retail price of $549.99^.
Preorders:
Canon EOS M50 - B&H | Adorama
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR - Canon USA Store
*Compatible with iOS versions 9.3/10.3, Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0/7.0/7.1. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.
**Compatible with Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0/7.0/7.1.
***Compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (Android version 5.0 or later and the following iOS devices: iPhone 4s or later, iPad 3rd gen. or later, iPod Touch 5th gen. or later) equipped with Bluetooth version 4.0 or later and the Camera Connect.
^ Availability, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
From Canon USA:
New Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash Offers Photographers the Opportunity to Enhance The Creativity of their Captured Images
MELVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 25, 2018 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is excited to announce the Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash, a revolutionary new flash system designed with entry-level and enthusiast photographers in mind. The one-of-a-kind flash incorporates Auto Intelligent (AI) Bounce technology – engineered to automatically and intelligently configure the most appropriate bounce angle resulting in ideal lighting conditions. The Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash could help alleviate the stigma attached to flash photography as being too difficult, while serving as a gateway for photographers looking to expand their skill set, especially those who recently stepped up from smartphone photography.
“Capturing images and sharing memorable moments that last a lifetime is the goal of photographers of all skill levels. DSLR cameras already feature Autofocus, Auto Exposure and Auto White Balance; the natural next step is an automatic flash system,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Canon values the opportunity to help entry-level and enthusiast photographers take pictures to the best of their ability, and we are excited to see what images photographers capture using the invaluable and innovative tools we create.”
At the core of Canon’s Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash is the innovative, new AI Bounce technology. AI Bounce automatically and intelligently determines and dictates the optimal angle of flash based off two distance variables: the distance between the camera and the ceiling, and the distance between the camera and the shooting subject. This technology allows photographers, in particular those who are new to flash photography, to utilize the ideal lighting situation and natural brightness of the room. For more advanced photographers who often alter the horizontal or vertical direction of their camera back and forth, the Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash will remember the previous bounce angle and restore the flash to that position.
Additional features of the Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash include infrared AF assist mode, optical receiver transmission, and flash coverage from 14mm and 24mm to 105mm.
The Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash is scheduled to be available April 2018 for an estimated retail price of $399.99**.
Preorders:
Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash - B&H | Adorama | Wex
* As of February 25, 2018. For a list of compatible Canon cameras please visit, usa.canon.com/470chart
** Availability, price and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
This bull elk was in full rut, was not in a good mood and he was looking for some cows to steal (could be a Charlie Daniels song).
This is an un-cropped image captured with a 600mm lens on a full frame body and under many circumstances, I was waaaay too close.
What you can't see in the frame is both a Rocky Mountain National Park ranger directing visitors and vehicles and my rental SUV between the bull and I.
The meadow at Moraine Park is closed from late afternoon until morning and that means most photography opportunities in that location are then found alongside the road.
That also means heavy competition for viewing positions when elk are present and finding a parking spot can be challenging at those times.
A 4x4 vehicle with some clearance is helpful in accessing the more challenging parking opportunities (think rocks) and the rangers are also helpful, and especially helpful is preventing people from stopping in the middle of the small road, which of course still happens and creates long traffic jams.
Increasing my safety were the people more "bold" (being nice here) than I.
At the moment this picture was taken, this solitary bull was about to cross the road.
The ranger parted the crowds and I took cover behind the SUV.
Because the meadow is lower than the road, the bull had been lower than camera level.
While good images can be made from a higher level, eye-level is often ideal and that height was reached as the bull approached the road.
A catchlight in the eye adds life to an animal and that light usually comes from the sun and/or sky.
There was no sun at this time (it was dark and rainy), but the more-upward angle helps to get a stronger sky reflection, lighting up the eye.
I could not adjust my position and was using a prime lens.
That meant this subject was going to be cropped in the frame.
While I like having the entire subject in the frame, I also like tightly framed portraits.
Full subject framing of wildlife is usually easier to accomplish and when tighter framing avails itself, especially with an animal like this one, I usually take advantage of that opportunity.
When cropping a subject, there is often a variety of creative options.
But, I most often want the eye in the frame.
Keeping the head in the frame is often a next priority and ideally, giving the subject some space on the side of the frame being faced (the gaze weights that side of the frame).
In this case, my next decision was determining how to adjust the vertical framing and more or less antler was the question.
I find antlers very interesting and opted to go big on the antlers, smaller on the body.
However, I left enough body showing to send the back line and a portion of the body out the left side of the frame and kept enough space below the chin to include the reverse-curving lines of the beard.
In this case, the elk's head, the primary part of the animal, falls approximately on the intersection of the right and lower 1/3 grid lines.
The photographic rule of thirds often works well for composition, but ... I more frequently first approach composition from inclusion/exclusion and balance perspectives.
What I find is that the rule of thirds can frequently later be applied to my results.
In general, the tighter the framing, the faster the shutter speed needs to be.
For an image to be tack sharp, the exposure duration must be short enough that no details cross over to another pixel.
It was dark out and I wanted to keep the ISO setting down.
The 1/320 second exposure used here was a compromise and I tossed many images from this encounter due to motion blur.
In the end, this was my favorite image from the series.
A larger version of this image is available on Flickr.
ISO 1600
8688 x 5792px
Upon seeing this image, what was the first word that came to your mind?
Does the dictionary-present "Aw" stretched to "Awwwww" count?
Being tame, this adorable 1-day-old fawn had zero concern with my presence and that opened up the opportunity to capture some unique-perspective close-up images.
When it became obvious that she was going down for some solid sleep time (about the only time fawns become motionless), I swapped the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens
for the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM Lens and moved in close.
The close perspective emphasizes the fawn's head, ears and hoof, making them appear large in proportion to what is farther away.
As those are especially cute parts of this little animal, that perspective works well.
Having a still subject was only the first challenge solved and several others remained.
Shooting under a high tree canopy created several additional challenges for this capture.
First, it was rather dark at the ground level.
Second, the backlit, light-spring-green-colored hardwood tree leaves created a green cast on the scene.
And, as the breeze moved the branches, spots of direct sunlight was intermittently hitting the subject, causing bright hot spots in the image.
Using a monopod braced against my leg allowed me to shoot at a relatively-long 1/25 second shutter speed, addressing the darkness challenge.
The color cast had to be removed during post processing and I had to revisit the color balance adjustments over a period of time until I grew comfortable with the result.
I may change my mind about the color adjustments tomorrow.
The last challenge was resolved with careful timing of the moving shadows, avoiding most of the hot spot problem.
As is so often the case with photography, the effort was worth the reward.
Hopefully the sleeping fawn brought a smile to your day! A larger version of this image is available on Flickr.
ISO 2500
8688 x 5792px
In this video, Benjamin Warde demonstrates the usefulness of the newly added Range Mask feature found in the local adjustment section of Lightroom.
B&H carries Adobe Photography Plan subscriptions.
From Sigma:
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce a firmware update for the SIGMA 30mm f/1.4 DC DN | Contemporary in Sony E-mount is now available.
Benefits of this firmware update
- Improved AF performance when the “Eye AF” function is selected.
- Improved AF performance in the peripheral areas in the image, when the “Lock on AF” function is selected.
- Improved feeling of the MF operation of the lens.
To update the firmware, please refer to this link.
B&H carries the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN | Contemporary Lens.
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.
Further improvements have been made to the recycle time which has been reduced to 1.7 seconds[v] or just 0.6 secondsv with the new External Battery Adaptor, product code FA-EBA1. One of the star features of previous Sony flashes, Quick Shift Bounce is again a feature and allows the photographer to quickly shift from horizontal to vertical orientation, 90 degrees left or right, upward by up to 150 degrees, and downward by 8 degrees for flexible positioning and optimum lighting for a wide range of scenes.
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.
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