From the Adorama YouTube Channel:
Keith shares some essential tips and advice on how to get the best results for you, recording your interviews. In this episode you will learn about recording interviews in a variety of situations and locations, and some tips on how to get the best results.
The episode looks at ENG, Tabletop and recording with Lavaliers.
Related Products
Yesterday, Profoto released a short teaser video for its newest product which features the bold statement, "Soon, the world of photography will change forever..."
As September 18 rolls around, we'll see if their lofty statement holds any merit.
When selecting a camera, one usually wants to compare it to the closest alternatives and to get started, I'll compare the Canon EOS M6 Mark II to the Canon EOS M6. That link along with the visual comparison reveal most of the differences.
Here is a summary:
Numerous of those bullets could alone justify an upgrade from the M6 Mark I. For example, the twice-as-fast (with AF) continuous shooting frame rate. Eye AF is alone worth the price of the camera to those photographing people with any frequency. Do much video work? The 4k feature is noteworthy. Want higher resolution or more reach with the lenses you currently have? The increased sensor resolution is going to be noticeable.
As with most model upgrades, price remains the primary feature advantage of the previous camera version.
More Information
Order the Canon EOS M6 Mark II at B&H | Amazon | Adorama | WEX.
With a forward head tilt and relaxed ears, this bedded whitetail buck looks cute and cuddly, presenting an image perhaps ready for a child's storybook. But, make no mistake, this is a huge ball of muscle ready to violently fight anything it thinks poses a threat to its interests (that right-side G4 tine required significant force to break off). This buck knows exactly what the doe bedded nearby behind it is doing and if another buck moves in or the doe moves away, this big bad boy will be up in a flash.
Very positive was that this bedded buck provided a wide range of poses for us, including head rested solidly on the ground, a large yawn, and ears perked in attention.
I'm not often a fan of a downward camera angle when photographing wildlife and in this case, getting down to the buck's eye level using a fully-retracted monopod made complete sense. This low/level angle provides a more distant background that can be strongly blurred with a 600mm f/4 lens, allowing the subject to clearly stand out against an even very distracting background. With the subject being stationary, the distance and alignment could be selected and varied. In this case, the leaves on the ground provide a solid base for the image. The large tree trunk on the left and the small tree trunk on the right provide a frame for the subject.
Wildlife photography is a great source of stories and this situation brought back a memory from the year before. I was in Shenandoah National Park photographing a different bedded buck from a reasonable distance when it suddenly bolted straight toward me. I jumped behind a tree just as it went past a short distance away. Fortunately, it was not racing after me but instead after a doe. I just happened to be in its path.
The shot of adrenaline took a little time to wear off, but the memory is a fun one.
Want to photograph these awesome animals and create some stories this fall? Sign up for the "Whitetail Buck in Rut and Much More", Shenandoah National Park instructional photo tour.
Sun, November 10 to Wed, November 13, 2019 and/or Wed, November 13 - Sat, November 16, 2019
Contact me to sign up!
A larger version of this image is available on Flickr.
From the Phlearn YouTube Channel:
Today we show you how to use the powerful features of a Wacom Tablet for a beautiful and subtle dodge and burn effect! Learn the benefits of using a pressure-sensitive tablet, how to create a custom brush to take advantage of those benefits, and how to use that custom brush to softly enhance the highlights and shadows in an image. Best of all, you can download our Wacom Tablet custom brush for free! NOTE: This is not an ad! We've been Wacom Tablet users for years and they're a big part of our editing workflow here at PHLEARN. We genuinely feel that they can help take your Photoshop skills to the next level (and you can still create beautiful, professional images with a mouse.)
From Sigma:
2019.09.11 - SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the launch of a new Art Prime PL mount lens that supports Cooke Optics’ /i Technology communication protocol in a latest addition to the SIGMA CINE LENS family for filmmaking in the FF High Speed Prime Line.
Optimized for large-format camera systems and 8K shooting, the FF High Speed Prime Line lenses deliver stunning image quality in compact construction. A new addition to this prime lens lineup comes with electronic contacts that supports Cooke’s /i Technology communication protocol for Art Prime PL mount lenses.
By using an /i Technology-compatible cine lens with a cine camera that supports the same protocol, users can see and record lens metadata such as focus distance, focal length, and aperture. This helps streamline compositing in the post production process. This is particularly suitable for the latest forms of filmmaking, such as VFX, that call for detailed shooting data.
Prototypes of this /i Technology-compatible FF High Speed Prime lens were used for shooting “Top Gun: Maverick”, scheduled to be released in 2020, showing that the new lens is already in commercial applications.
For SIGMA customers who has already purchased a SIGMA PL mount lens, a new service to turn their lenses /i Technology-compatible is under consideration.
A production version of this new product will be on display at IBC 2019, scheduled to take place in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, from September 13 to 17, 2019.
Launch: From the end of 2019
Price: TBD
* /i is a registered trademark of Cooke Optics Limited used with permission.
Common specifications
Not long ago, the headline above would have seemed ideal for use on April 1st. Today, however, it's real news. [Sean]
From Sigma:
2019.09.11 - The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of “FF Classic Prime Line” as a new series in the SIGMA CINE LENS.
FF High Speed Prime Line has been offering the highest resolving power in its class, that is compatible with 8K shooting with large format sensors, while achieving outstanding compact design. Based on this product line, the FF Classic Prime Line incorporates more non-coated optical elements to achieve unrivaled expression. It retains the high resolution capability that SIGMA CINE LENS is well known for, and offers a unique combination of low contrast and artistic flare/ghost in the image. As with all other lenses from the FF High Speed Prime Line, it creates beautiful bokeh effects to improve creativity.
FF Classic Prime Line has implemented newly developed coatings on the glass elements and offers consistent T value across the lineup (14mm and 135mm at T3.2 and the rest of the lenses at T2.5). This will greatly contribute to the effective workflow in postproduction. Furthermore, it is compatible with the communication protocol of Cooke “/i Technology”, thus an ideal tool for shooting and editing with the latest technology, such as VFX. A special coating is implemented on the front and rear elements so that the lens durability is ensured as with all other cine lenses from SIGMA.
“Classic Art Prime” is a new solution from SIGMA that is required for the most advanced technology for classical expression. The “look” that FF Classic Prime Line can offer will enable cinematographers to explore new possibilities in movie creation.
From September 13th to 17th, SIGMA is going to display this new product at the IBC 2019 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The Canon EOS 90D vs. Canon EOS 80D Comparison is a highly relevant one, comparing the new and previous versions of this camera model. Here is a list of the differences between the 90D and 80D:
Few are going to find a reason (other than price) to go with the 80D over the 90D.
If you know of a feature difference not included here, please share it with us!
More Information
Order the Canon EOS 90D at B&H | Amazon | Adorama | WEX.
I'll not likely ever repeat a shot similar to this one captured on a fall evening in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Photographing multiple animals (vs. a single animal) significantly increases the compositional challenge and especially with a 600mm lens in use, having all of the animals in the plane of sharp focus, especially at f/4, is a big challenge. At this moment, these three subjects aligned themselves nicely for me at this moment. The number 3 is meaningful to this discussion in that an odd (vs. even) number of animals often works best compositionally (note that it also works well in landscape photography and in landscaping).
When multiple animals are in the frame, interaction between those animals usually increases the image's appeal. If you look carefully at this photo, you will see a quite humorous interaction occurring. The bull is licking the cow who is showing us her shocked face. The cow's yearling is looking intently at the behavior, seemingly very interested in what is happening. The yearling facing the opposite direction somewhat completes a circle (while a portion of the circle of life plays out). Icing on the cake is that the head shadows of the cow and yearling are showing facing each other on the side of the bull.
There are two openings remaining for the September elk in rut photo tour, one for each week. The time is rapidly running out, but it's not too late for you to join a small group of passionate wildlife photographers pursuing these awesome animals and the beauty of RMNP. Photographers at all skill levels are invited to join!
"Bull Elk in Rut and Much More", Rocky Mountain National Park
Photographers at all skill levels are also invited to join me for these tours:
Fall Landscape in Acadia National Park Instructional Photography Tour
Tue, Oct 15 through Sun, Oct 20, 2019
"Whitetail Buck in Rut and Much More", Shenandoah National Park
Sun, November 10 to Wed, November 13, 2019 and/or Wed, November 13 - Sat, November 16, 2019
Contact me to sign up!
A larger version of this image is available on Flickr.
Nikon has published a Technical Solutions | Z7/Z6 TIPS Page informing consumers how to use the newly available N-Log 3D LUT with DaVinci Resolve 15.
If you photograph outdoors, there are few better places to be in the fall than Acadia National Park. Consider joining a small group of enthusiastic photographers in this bucket-list-grade location from Tue, Oct 15 through Sun, Oct 20, 2019. Sign up ASAP – only two spots remain open.
Here are the details: Fall Landscape in Acadia National Park Instructional Photography Tour
Contact me now to sign up!
Just posted: Tamron 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di OSD Lens Review.
This is a compact, lightweight ultra-wide-angle lens with image quality the exceeds its price.
The Tamron 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di OSD Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Tamron 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di OSD Lens from Lensrentals.
Canon has released new versions of its Digital Photo Professional, EOS Utility, and Picture Style Editor. (thanks David)
Think Tank Photo is having a StreetWalker Backpack Sale. Save 15% through Sept. 30th, 2019 (or while supplies last).
I have a couple of these backpacks and use them frequently. They are often the right choice for the job.
Don't forget that you'll get a free gift and free shipping when using our links for your purchase ($50.00 minimum purchase required).
With a Canon EOS M6 Mark II in hand, it was time to set up the camera for use. Following are the 36 steps I took to make an out-of-the-box M6 II ready for use.
To copy this configuration would mean that you intend to shoot similar to how I shoot - including shooting in RAW-only format. While my setup works great for me, your best use of this list may be for tweaking your own setup.
If you can't remember your own menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a good idea. IF your camera is reset-to-factory state for some reason, such as when being serviced, you will be ready to restore your setup quickly while ensuring that you do not miss an important setting. If you purchase another same or similar camera, you will be able to quickly set it up.
More Information
Order the Canon EOS M6 Mark II at B&H | Amazon | Adorama | WEX.
B&H has shared expected availability dates for the recently announced Canon gear:
Canon EOS 90D: Thu Sep 12
Preorder: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Canon EOS M6 Mark II: Thu Sep 26
Preorder: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens: Thu Sep 26
Preorder: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens: Thu Sep 26
Preorder: B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
As always, thanks for supporting this site going by starting your shopping using our links!
With a Canon EOS 90D in hand, it was time to set up the camera for use. Following are the 36 steps I took to make an out-of-the-box 90D ready for use.
To copy this configuration would mean that you intend to shoot similar to how I shoot - including shooting in RAW-only format. While my setup works great for me, your best use of this list may be for tweaking your own setup.
If you can't remember your own menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a good idea. IF your camera is reset-to-factory state for some reason, such as when being serviced, you will be ready to restore your setup quickly while ensuring that you do not miss an important setting. If you purchase another same or similar camera, you will be able to quickly set it up.
More Information
Order the Canon EOS 90D at B&H | Amazon | Adorama | WEX.
From Canon U.S.A.:
In response to feedback from customers about the recently launched PowerShot G7 X Mark III, Canon U.S.A. plans to issue a firmware update that can help improve video autofocus speed, accuracy and subject detection performance.
This update will be free for all customers to download from the Canon U.S.A. website at the end of October 2019.
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is in stock at B&H.
From the Adorama YouTube Channel:
Learn a fast and easy way to create interesting art with just some incense and a camera. In this episode, Mark Wallace walks through all the steps for creating smoke photos. Once you know the basics you can expand your editing and create something that is truly yours.
Amazon carries incense sticks.
From Tamron:
SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD for Canon
For details about the service, please contact your nearest Tamron dealer.
A separately sold TAP-in Console is needed for the update.
I hope to get to some more in-depth comparisons, but for the DIYers, the specifications records for the just-announced Canon EOS 90D and Canon EOS M6 Mark II are mostly populated and make for some interesting comparisons.
Here are some suggestions:
Canon EOS 90D vs. Canon EOS 80D Comparison
Canon EOS 90D vs. Canon EOS 70D Comparison
Canon EOS 90D vs. Canon EOS M6 Mark II Comparison
Canon EOS 90D vs. Canon EOS 7D Mark II Comparison
Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs. Canon EOS M6 Comparison
Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs. Canon EOS M5 Comparison
Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs. Canon EOS 80D Comparison
To more fully complete the comparisons, use the Camera Product Images Tool. Click "overlay" after following that link to see an interesting comparison.
From Canon Europe:
London, UK, 5th September 2019 – Canon Europe today releases its next generation Cinema EOS System camera – the EOS C500 Mark II. Created with the expertise and technical knowledge at the heart of Canon’s innovative products, and built on the foundations of Cinema EOS System, the EOS C500 Mark II is a compact and versatile 5.9K Full Frame camera. The EOS C500 Mark II’s impressive Full Frame sensor, developed and built by Canon, is powered by Canon’s new DIGIC DV 7 processor. Supporting 5.9K internal Cinema RAW Light and 4K 4:2:2 10bit XF-AVC recording, this camera enables professionals to creatively explore Full Frame, cinematic image. It is the first camera in the range with the ability to record 5.9K Cinema RAW Light onto new, faster storage media – CFexpress cards. Providing professionals with greater flexibility and efficiency, simultaneous recording of the same file format is also possible to dual CFexpress card slots.
The compact size of the camera provides cinematographers with unparalleled creative freedom. With its flexible, modular design, professionals can configure the camera with different expansion units to suit production requirements. The EOS C500 Mark II is the first Cinema EOS System camera to feature a user interchangeable lens-mount for EF Cinema Lock, and PL, giving professionals a wide variety of lens selection. It is also the first Cinema EOS System camera to support Electronic IS.
Breathtaking Full Frame image quality
Featuring Canon’s 5.9K Full Frame CMOS sensor, the EOS C500 Mark II provides a cinematic, immersive Full Frame look combined with Canon’s natural, smooth skin-tone and faithful colour reproduction. Thanks to the 5.9K sensor and the newly developed DIGIC DV 7 processor, the EOS C500 Mark II is an ideal choice for professionals looking to produce content in top quality 4K as it uses a high-quality debayering algorithm when over sampling 5.9K into 4K. This suppresses moiré and reduces noise, resulting in exceptional image quality. With its 15+ stop latitude with wide colour space, the EOS C500 Mark II is perfect for High Dynamic Range Productions. In addition to this, the camera is equipped with a built-in motorised Full Frame ND unit (2,4,6, 81 and 102 stops) making it possible to create images with a shallow depth of field – even in the daytime.
Efficient recording and workflow
The versatile multi-recording format ability of the EOS C500 Mark II provides workflow efficiency to fulfill production requirements. With Canon’s new DIGIC DV 7 image processor, the camera offers Cinema RAW Light internal recording with 5.9K resolution. Cinema RAW Light format has all the benefits of a RAW file in terms of flexibility in post-production yet allows the EOS C500 Mark II to record high quality files in a smaller file size.
In addition to the camera’s ability to record internally onto CFexpress cards in Canon XF-AVC format with 4K 4:2:2 10bit, simultaneous recording as well as proxy recording is possible. This provides professionals with ultimate flexibility, allowing them to choose a recording format suited to their filming and workflow needs. The camera features an advanced 12G-SDI interface which has four times higher transmission speeds compared to 3G-SDI. This 12G-SDI interface enables 4K 50/60p output with a single cable – simplifying 4K workflows. Additionally, the HDMI output allows for 4K 50/60p via a single cable.
Exceptional expandability and versatility for wide production requirements
Cinematographers can configure the camera using two different expansion units – the EU-V1 and EU-V2. Two viewfinders (EVF-V70 and EVF-V50) are also available as optional units. The ability to configure the camera with Expansion Units, along with its compactness and lightweight design, gives cinematographers greater shooting flexibility.
The expansion unit EU-V1 adds a Genlock/Sync BNC interface, Remote B interface for the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller, and an Ethernet interface for IP streaming or browser remote control operation. The EU-V2 expansion unit also includes these interfaces but adds a further two XLR inputs, as well as 12-pin Lens interface. In addition to this, it is equipped with a V-Lock battery mount with D-tap and 24V Power Output.
Stable filming with Electronic IS and Pioneering Auto Focus technology
The EOS C500 Mark II is the first camera to incorporate Electronic Image Stabilization in a Cinema EOS System, providing the camera with 5-axis Image Stabilization. When a lens that supports data transmission is attached, focal length data is automatically received. However, when used with a lens with no lens communication, Electronic IS is possible by manually inputting the focal length. In addition to this, Electronic IS is also compatible with anamorphic lenses.
As with other cameras in the range, the EOS C500 Mark II features Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus. Offering high-speed One-Push AF and continuous AF, professionals have the reassurance that footage will be focused. They can also benefit from smooth, intuitive touch focus operation with the new LCD monitor LM-V2, as well as the Dual Pixel Focus Guide which notifies professionals where the focus position is, whether it be in front or the back, helping accurate focus control. Additionally, the EOS C500 Mark II has Face Detection AF and Tracking AF, enabling focus control in a variety of filming situations. To further fine tune AF performance, the camera offers the ability to set the AF tracking speed and response.
Additional features for ultimate creative freedom
The EOS C500 Mark II supports user LUTs, allowing cinematographers to apply or customise their own LUTs. Loading them onto the camera for precise-look monitoring, cinematographers can also apply different LUTs for each terminal. With the added LUT button, professionals have greater operational flexibility. The EOS C500 Mark II also includes high frame rate recording up to 50/60 fps in 5.9K resolution with the Cinema RAW Light codec.
Also launching today is the DP-V3120 and CJ15ex4.3B which, along with the EOS C500 Mark II, will be on display, for the first time globally, on the Canon stand (Hall 12, Stand D60) at IBC 2019. The EOS C500 Mark II will be available from December.
Preorders
Preorder the Canon EOS C500 Mark II from B&H | Adorama
From Nikon:
MELVILLE, NY – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the development of the Nikon D6 professional DSLR camera and the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR telephoto zoom lens.
Nikon released the D1 digital SLR camera in 1999, making 2019 the 20th anniversary of the single-digit D series. Thanks to the imaging know-how cultivated over Nikon's long history in camera development, Nikon's professional DSLR cameras have continued to evolve by introducing some of the industry's most advanced technologies and responding to the strict demands of professional photographers with the ultimate in performance and reliability, even in the most severe conditions. With the D6, Nikon is currently developing its most advanced DSLR to date.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Nikon F mount. The new AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR F mount lens that Nikon is developing will provide professional photographers in fields such as sports photography with even greater support.
Nikon is striving to expand possibilities for imaging expression and leading the way in imaging culture with both DSLR and mirrorless camera systems, as well as a rich lineup of NIKKOR lenses.
Details including release dates, pricing and specifications for these products will be announced at a later date
From Nikon:
The Versatile NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S Delivers Superior Optical Performance, Equipping Nikon Z Series Creators with an Incredibly Sharp, High-Resolution Lens to Explore Wide-Angle Perspectives
MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the fast, wide- angle NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S, the latest addition to the ever-expanding NIKKOR Z lineup of lenses. The 24mm f/1.8 S is optimized for capturing everything from cityscapes to environmental portraits and is built to take advantage of Nikon’s large Z-mount, delivering the ultimate combination of fast, bright and sharp performance in nearly all lighting conditions.
“The NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S continues our commitment to offering exciting prime lenses to Nikon Z 7 and Z 6 users, while also providing exceptional level of quality achieved by the S-Line of NIKKOR Z lenses,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “The combination of wide-angle perspective and a fast f/1.8 aperture is optimal for all types of photography including landscapes, making the NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S a must-have lens to unleash the full potential of the Nikon Z series.”
The NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S – A Storyteller’s Dream Lens:
The NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S joins the S-Line of high-performance NIKKOR Z lenses, giving creators an essential focal length to add to their kit of fast prime Z-mount lenses. The lens takes advantage of the most advanced NIKKOR technologies to deliver optical superiority, exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh and high-resolution across the entire frame, even at maximum aperture.
The new NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S was designed for photographers and videographers looking to capture gorgeous wide-angle landscapes or vivid street photography, a travel adventure or a stunning starscape. For videographers and content creators, this popular focal length is a staple for production due to its natural perspective. Thanks to the advantages of the lens’ bright and fast f/1.8 maximum aperture along with the wider Z-mount, Nikon Z series users can capture exceptionally sharp images in dimly lit settings, with a lens that’s ideal for nighttime shooting and astrophotography.
The NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S features 9 rounded aperture blades, allowing users to capture beautifully circular bokeh that adds a level of dimensionality to help capture compelling content. Users can confidently explore their creative potential in nearly any landscape thanks to the lens’ reliable dust and drip resistant design, ideal for tough weather conditions. The lens construction also consists of four Aspherical Lens Elements and one Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass element to combat aberration, while Nikon’s patented Nano Crystal Coat helps eliminate ghosting and flare. The 24mm f/1.8 S is further equipped with Nikon’s Multi-Focusing System, which uses two AF drives in tandem to deliver superior resolving power and achieve fast and accurate autofocus, even at minimum focus distance. In addition to achieving the top-notch image quality that storytellers and content creators have come to expect from the S-Line of NIKKOR Z lenses, the NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S is also optimized for video capture. As a popular cinematic focal length, the 24mm f/1.8 S will be a welcome addition to Z series shooters’ arsenals, boasting near-silent stepping motors for ultra-quiet performance, reduced focus breathing, a customizable control ring for smooth control of aperture and exposure compensation and the ability to take advantage of the in-camera 5-axis VR + eVR of the Nikon Z series cameras.
Price and Availability
The NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S will be available in mid to late October 2019 at a suggested retail price (SRP) of $999.95.
Did you notice the Canon EOS R and Canon EOS RP firmware announcement at the bottom of the Canon RF 15-35mm and 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens lens announcement press release?
Free Firmware Update
In addition, a new, free downloadable firmware update will be released in late September for the EOS R system. Those interested can download the update for their respective system via the EOS R and EOS RP support pages. The update will improve three main functions:
The firmware update aims to add detection of the subject’s eye when the subject is at a distance, improve overall AF frame tracking for moving subjects, as well as improve initial subject recognition and start tracking when subjects are at a distance.
While I already find the R and RP's AF systems to be high performing, this update will take them to an even higher level of performance.
The Canon EOS R is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
The Canon EOS RP is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
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