Canon and Sony News for May 2018 (Page 2)

B&H has the Sigma 105mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder with free expedited shipping.

Product Highlights

• Aperture Range: f/1.4 to f/16
• Three FLD Elements, Two SLD Elements
• One Aspherical Element
• Super Multi-Layer Coating
• Hyper Sonic AF Motor, Manual Override
• Weather-Sealed, Protective Front Coating
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
• Removable Rotating Arca-Type Tripod Foot
• Compatible with Sigma USB Dock

From Sigma:

SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art and SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art for Sony E-mount are scheduled to start shipping in June, 2018.

While offering the same high-performance optical design as other lenses in the Art line, the new Sony E-mount models will feature a newly developed control algorithm that optimizes the autofocus drive and maximizes the data transmission speed. In addition, these lenses will be compatible with Sony’s Continuous AF (AF-C), which is not addressed by SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11. Like the converter MC-11, the lenses will be compatible with in-camera image stabilization and in-camera lens aberration correction, which includes corrections for peripheral illumination, chromatic aberrations, and distortion.

B&H lists the lenses' expected availability as "mid June."

Preorders:

SIGMA 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Sony E – B&H | Adorama
SIGMA 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Sony E – B&H | Adorama

From Sigma:

The “Bokeh Master” will begin shipping in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts in late June for a retail price of $1,599.00 USD

Ronkonkoma, NY – May 25, 2018 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading still photo and cinema lens, camera, flash and accessory manufacturer, today announced that its 105mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma camera mounts in late June for $1,599.00 USD through authorized US dealers. The Sony E-mount availability will be announced later.

The “Bokeh Master” with Longest Focal Length Among Sigma Wide-Aperture F1.4 Art Lenses

The Sigma 105mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is the ninth lens in the Sigma F1.4 line-up designed for full-frame cameras. To combine outstanding wide-aperture, mid-telephoto performance with F1.4 brightness at maximum aperture, this lens incorporates 17 optical elements in 12 groups, including three FLD glass elements, two SLD glass elements and one aspherical lens element. This optical setup minimizes axial chromatic aberration to deliver ultra high resolution along with ample peripheral light volume, which minimizes vignetting. As a result, the area in focus is extremely sharp, while the out-of-focus area features a beautiful bokeh effect with highly natural colors, making this a desired lens for portrait photography. The optical design also minimizes sagittal coma flare, making it an excellent choice for capturing starry skies.

Featuring the Sports line level dust- and splash-proof design, this lens can be used in varying weather conditions. The high-speed, high-accuracy autofocus helps photographers react in an instant to capture those special moments. Other lens highlights include carbon fiber reinforced plastic hood for durability and compatibility of the Canon mount lens with the Canon Lens Aberration Correction function.

Preorders will be available at the following retailers: B&H | Adorama

Best known for her role in Game of Thrones, actress Emilia Clarke can be seen taking a starring role in several classic business stock photos. Do you have a business meeting coming up in the near future? You'll probably be seeing her face in the next slide show you're forced to sit through.

In this video, Dr Andrew Steele uses an infrared-converted DSLR to demonstrate the hidden world of IR that resides all around us.

Interested in converting a camera to infrared (or full-spectrum)? I highly recommend checking out LifePixel's vast assortment of conversion options.

From ZEISS:

With its 13 high-speed, full-frame, prime lenses for high-quality film productions, ZEISS is focusing on maximum quality, low weight, and significant versatility when it comes to creating superb visual imagery.

OBERKOCHEN/Germany, 2018-05-24 – ZEISS has introduced a new family of high-speed lenses for high-end film production: The ZEISS Supreme Prime family consists of 13 lenses with fixed focal lengths between 15 and 200 millimeters, the majority with a maximum aperture of T1.5. “The lenses are designed for film productions of an extremely high quality,” says Christophe Casenave from ZEISS. “They are perfect for high-budget advertising or feature films, for example.” ZEISS Supreme Primes are designed to cover cinematic large format camera sensors and are compatible with all of the latest camera models, such as the Sony Venice, ARRI Alexa LF, and RED Monstro. According to Casenave, the versatility of the Supreme Prime lenses to create different visual looks is due to the gentle sharpness, the aesthetic focus fall-off and elegant bokeh. The lenses are extremely flexible and can be used equally well for science fiction thrillers as well as for dramas.

Compact and Lightweight

"Weighing an average of 1600 grams (3.5 pounds), ZEISS Supreme Primes are significantly lighter and smaller than comparable lenses on the market,” says Casenave. With these compact and lightweight lenses, ZEISS is responding to many camera operators’ desire for compact equipment that stills meets the highest standards of quality. “ZEISS Supreme Primes are unbelievably rugged and reliable. Regardless of whether filming in the desert or in the Arctic, the lenses perform flawlessly. And in the event that something should ever break, our worldwide service network provides fast and professional help.”

ZEISS eXtended Data Metadata Technology

The ZEISS Supreme Primes are equipped with the ZEISS eXtended Data metadata technology. Introduced in 2017, ZEISS eXtended Data provides frame by frame data on lens vignetting and distortion in addition to the standard lens metadata provided using Cooke's /i technology1 protocol. This greatly speeds up the entire film production’s workflow. When using visual effects for example, with only a few clicks, the lens properties can be removed so that computer-generated effects imagery can be accurately applied to the captured imagery. The lens properties can then be reapplied with the same click of a button and combined with the film material to create a realistic image. Previously, all of the data had to be measured manually so that it could be corrected in post-production. But ZEISS eXtended Data eliminates this time-consuming job.

Price and Availability

The first ZEISS Supreme Primes lenses with focal lengths of 25, 29, 35, 50, and 85 millimeters will be available starting on August 1, 2018. The ZEISS Supreme Prime 100 millimeter will be available in December 2018. The set of six lenses, consisting of the focal lengths mentioned above, is available from ZEISS Cinema lens dealers for $108,000.00 USD. The remaining focal lengths will be released successively until 2020.

B&H carries ZEISS lenses.

From Nikon:

IMPORTANT: Firmware updates cannot be performed if Enable is currently selected for Network > Network connection in the SETUP MENU. Select Disable for Network connection before proceeding.

Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.21 to 1.30

• Added Recall shooting functions to the functions that can be assigned to camera controls. Holding the selected control recalls previously-saved exposure settings (including shutter speed and aperture), a feature that can for example be used to switch rapidly between scenes that require different exposures.

  Recall shooting functions can be assigned to the following controls using Custom Setting f1 (Custom control assignment): Preview button, Fn1 button, Fn2 button, AF-ON button, Sub-selector center, AF-ON button for vertical shooting, and Lens focus function buttons. It can also be assigned to the Fn button on a WR-1 or WR-T10 remote control using the Assign remote (WR) Fn button option in the SETUP MENU.

  For more information, see the addenda to the User’s Manual available from the Nikon Download Center (Nikon Download Center > D5 > Manuals > Supplementary Firmware Update Manual).

• Fixed the following issues:
• If Backup or RAW Slot 1 - JPEG Slot 2 was selected for PHOTO SHOOTING MENU > Role played by card in Slot 2 in http server mode, the shutter would sometimes not be released during burst shooting.
• Reactivating the standby timer would sometimes fail to re-establish the link between the camera and some makes of mobile router connected via Ethernet cable (Prioritize power saving selected for SETUP MENU > Network > Options > Power saving).
• The focal lengths displayed when teleconverters for AF-S or AF-I lenses are attached have been updated as follows:



Lens focal length	Teleconverter	Before update	After update
400 mm	1.4×	550 mm	560 mm
400 mm	1.7×	650 mm	680 mm
800 mm	1.4×	1150 mm	1120 mm
800 mm	1.7×	1350 mm	1360 mm


The focal length displays for some combinations of lenses and teleconverters may differ from those given above.
• The SETUP MENU > Time zone and date > Time zone display now shows only the names of major cities in the currently selected zone.

Download: Nikon D5 Firmware v.1.30

B&H carries the Nikon D5 DSLR Camera.

Well, it looks like Tamron will be announcing an update to their Tamron AF 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Lens in the very near future as B&H has the new lens, the similarly named Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Lens, available for preorder in Canon EF and Nikon F mounts.

Product Highlights

• 28.8-432mm (35mm Equivalent)
• Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/40
• Three Low Dispersion Elements
• Three Aspherical Elements
• BBAR and Fluorine Coatings
• PZD Autofocus Motor
• VC Image Stabilization
• Rounded 7-Blade Diaphragm

From Think Tank Photo:

05/23/2018 – Digital Imaging Reporter recently asked 85 retail photography dealers to indicate their favorite products in 12 different categories based on product quality, support and ease of selling. According to the magazine’s editors, “For the third year in a row, Think Tank Photo carried the day, winning the bag category with 48% of the votes going to its StreetWalker series.”

The StreetWalker Rolling Backpack V2.0 is so spacious, it will fit two DSLR bodies with lenses attached (including a 200-400mm f/4), and a 15” laptop. The StreetWalker HardDrive V2.0 backpack fits two bodies with lenses attached or a gripped body with a 200–400mm f/4 attached, a 15” laptop and a 13” tablet. The StreetWalker Pro V2.0 backpack fits two bodies with lens attached or a 400mm f/2.8 unattached, and a 10” table. And, the StreetWalker V2.0 backpack fits one gripped DSLR with 70–200mm f/2.8 attached, one standard DSLR with 24–70mm f/2.8 attached, a 16–35mm f/2.8, and a 10” tablet.

KEY FEATURES

StreetWalker Rolling Backpack V2.0

• Comfortable harness system allows you to roll the bag or carry it on your back
• Dedicated laptop compartment that holds up to a 15” laptop
• Fits two bodies with lenses attached including a 200–400mm f/4
• Specially designed interior to maximize gear for carry-on, meets most U.S. and International airline carry-on requirements
• Reinforced telescoping handle with rubberized touch points
• Tripod mount on front panel
• Dedicated smartphone pocket fits today’s large phones with a 5.5” (14cm) screen size
• Lockable YKK RC Fuse zipper sliders (lock not included)
• Two side water bottle pockets and two side zippered pockets
• YKK RC Fuse zippers, ballistic nylon, high-density velex and closed cell PU foam are the highest quality materials in the industry
• Custom-designed, high-performance, 80mm wheels with sealed ABEC grade 5 bearings for quiet rolling
• Seam-sealed rain cover included
• User-replaceable retractable handle, wheels, wheel housings, feet and kick plate extends product life
• Adjustable dividers allow a customized fit for your DSLR or Mirrorless gear
• Hypalon reinforced rear panel for increased durability
• Shoulder harness pockets, D-rings, daisy chain and adjustable sternum strap

StreetWalker Backpacks V2.0

• Tripod mount on front panel (tripod cup for larger tripods included on Pro and HardDrive versions)
• Padded shoulder straps comfortable for all day trekking
• YKK RC Fuse zippers, ballistic nylon, high density velex and closed-cell PU foam are the highest quality materials in the industry
• Seam-sealed rain cover included
• Adjustable dividers allow you to customize the fit of your DSLR or Mirrorless gear
• Two side water bottle pockets and two side zippered pockets
• Dedicated smartphone pocket fits today’s large phones with a 5.5” (14cm) screen size
• Removable webbing waist belt detaches easily
• Lockable YKK RC Fuse zipper sliders (lock not included)
• Interior clear zippered pockets for accessories
• Organizer pocket
• Shoulder harness pockets, D-rings, daisy chain and adjustable sternum strap
• Clear business card holder on top panel for identification
• Compatible with Camera Support Straps (sold separately)
• Compatible with our Thin Skin and Pro Speed Camera Belts (sold separately)

Think Tank Photo has the StreetWalker series in stock and you'll get a free gift when using our links for your purchase ($50.00 minimum purchase required).

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce that a firmware update for the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 EF-E is now available. This firmware update makes the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 EF-E compatible with the new product SIGMA 70mm F2.8 DG MACRO | Art for Canon.

* Before updating the MC-11 firmware, please ensure SIGMA Optimization Pro has been updated to ver. 1.4.1 or later for Windows, and ver. 1.4.0 or later for Macintosh from the following download page.

Applicable Product

• SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 EF-E

Benefit of the Update

• It has become compatible with the SIGMA 70mm F2.8 DG MACRO | Art for Canon

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download page

B&H carries the Sigma Mount Converter MC-11 EF-E.

From the Canon Digital Learning Center:

by Rick Sammon

Having just returned from another photo-successful safari to Africa, where I photographed the handsome lion that opens this article, I thought I’d put together some thoughts on how you can make a photo safari a photo success. After all, a photo safari to Africa is an once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers; so coming home with a selection of great photographs that tell the story of the amazing adventure is a top priority – in addition to having fun!

From the Pond5 YouTube Channel:

The importance of well-mixed audio in a video project can’t be overstated. Dialogue, ambient noise, sound effects, and music all need to be mixed together properly to enhance the viewer’s experience. Here are 5 basic audio mixing techniques for editing video.

In this video, Julieanne Kost goes over several shortcuts for using Point Type in in Photoshop CC.

B&H carries Adobe Photography Plan subscriptions.

From Shutterbug:

Venerable Photography Media Brand to Focus on Website After Ending Print Edition

May 22, 2018 – Shutterbug is moving forward as a web-only publication (Shutterbug.com) after ending its print magazine after 45 years, Shutterbug Editor-in-Chief Dan Havlik announced today.

“Shutterbug magazine had a great run, but the media landscape has changed dramatically in the last 4+ decades, and we felt now was the time for Shutterbug to become a dynamic, web-only publication,” Havlik said. “Shutterbug.com has grown dramatically in recent years with record traffic and expanded reach to photographers around the world. We can now dedicate all our resources to further growing our online presence and expanding our video, social media, mobile and e-commerce channels.”

In the last four years since Havlik joined Shutterbug as editor-in-chief, Shutterbug.com’s traffic has increased over 700%. Shutterbug.com was also recently named one of the top five best photography news sites by Feedspot. Meanwhile, Shutterbug’s social media channels have grown exponentially in recent years, with nearly one million followers on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Flipboard, Twitter and other social sites combined.

“The web, social media and video are simply the best ways for Shutterbug to reach the growing audience of photographers out there, including everyone who is graduating up from shooting with their smart phones and wants to learn how to capture photos with real cameras, to photo enthusiasts and seasoned pros who want to read the latest news and reviews of the hottest photo gear. Shutterbug.com offers it all.”

Along with continuing to post the best photography how-tos, video tutorials, feature stories and camera gear reviews on the web, Shutterbug.com will expand its popular photo galleries where readers share and comment on their images. Shutterbug.com will also open an online photography store where visitors can buy cameras, lenses, software, and photo accessories, along with Shutterbug-branded merchandise such as t-shirts and camera bags.

Shutterbug is owned by AVTech Media Americas Inc., a division of the UK-based AVTech Media Ltd (UK) company.

From Skylum (developers of Aurora HDR 2018 and Luminar 2018):

Skylum also hires Alex Savsunenko, former CEO of Let’s Enhance, to lead AI-based photo technologies to the next level.

May 22, 2018 — Bellevue, WA — Today, Skylum Software announced the formation of a new research and development division dedicated to the advancement of artificial intelligence technologies in image processing. The Skylum AI Lab leverages the company’s prior work developing smart filters in its award-winning Luminar software, as well as technology from its “sister company” Photolemur, which was founded in 2016 by Dima Sytnik and Alex Tsepko, co-founder and CEO of Skylum respectively.

“Clearly, AI can simplify our lives. By using AI-based technologies in our products, our customers save time vs. manual editing, and can often get better results,” said Alex Tsepko, CEO at Skylum. “Our neural networks are being trained on millions of images taken by cameras from Fujifilm, Sony, Olympus, Nikon, Canon and many others, which means outstanding results for all photographers, regardless of what style they shoot and what gear they are using.” To spearhead the new Skylum AI Lab, the company has hired Alex Savsunenko, former CEO of Let’s Enhance, a leader in machine learning for visual content. Savsunenko will manage all research and development for technologies based on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and neural networks. Promising results will ultimately be implemented in Skylum products and solutions for image and video enhancement, with the aim to help users make their workflow faster, smarter and more efficient.

Currently, the Skylum AI Lab is testing over a dozen new solutions, including:

• Image upscaling: uses deep convolutional neural networks to improve low-resolution images and scale them up for superior viewing and printing.
• Tagging: generates tags that describe the image and its objects based on image recognition.
• Segmentation: smart recognition of image areas that can be automatically enhanced using different filters and corrections based on the type of object.
• Automatic enhancement: applies smart image corrections to photos based on a variety of issues

To further reinforce its AI prowess, Skylum has also joined forces with Photolemur, creator of the world's first fully automatic photo enhancement solution. Photolemur app has been sold for several years, with hundreds of thousands of customers worldwide. It enhances images utilizing artificial intelligence without the need to use any manual controls. Development will continue on Photolemur, with the next evolution of the app likely to be a cloud solution that helps high-volume users enhance images as batch process.