Canon and Sony News for Jun 2021 (Page 2)
Sony has made Sony Alpha a7 III firmware update version 4.01 available for download.
Firmware Version 4.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Added FTP transfer function
- FTP transfer is now possible when shooting still images or playing back images.
- Addition of various transfer methods
- Transfer images at once by specifying conditions to be transferred such as protected images and untransferred images [FTP transfer]
- By assigning a function to a custom key, you can immediately transfer the selected image during playback [FTP transfer (one sheet)]
- Automatically transfer all captured images [Automatic transfer at the time of shooting]
- Added a setting to transfer both RAW and JPEG files when shooting RAW + JPEG.
- Improvement of FTP server settings
- Increase in the number of FTP servers that can be registered in the camera (3 - 9)
- The transfer destination folder structure on the FTP server can be changed flexibly. --Change to a folder structure that puts images directly under the specified folder- Memory card slot number can be registered in the folder structure-Can be transferred to the server side with the same folder structure as the camera
- Improved operability of FTP transfer
- [Server settings] items can be set from the smartphone app (Transfer & Tagging add-on) *
* Download may not be possible depending on the country or region.
- [Server settings] items can be set from the smartphone app (Transfer & Tagging add-on) *
- Improved operational stability
Canon has made Canon EOS 5D Mark IV firmware update version 1.3.3 available for download.
Firmware Version 1.3.3 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Fixes an issue, in which self-timer shooting cannot be performed in Firmware Version 1.3.1 and 1.3.2.
- Fixes an issue, in which an electronic beep does not sound when registering an AF frame as the AF start position in Firmware Version 1.3.1 and 1.3.2.
- Fixes an issue, in which a small sound is generated from the speaker when the power is turned on in Firmware Version 1.3.2.
Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results have been added to the Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM Lens page.
Some discussion is warranted here. This lens's center of the frame performance is outstanding, even wide open at f/1.8. Primarily at issue are the soft corners falling below expectations, with all four corners performing similarly. At the 14mm full frame angle of view, a very close focus distance is required to fit even a large chart in the frame, and my first thought was perhaps the close-focusing image quality was the issue. However, some quick outdoor testing also shows relatively soft peripheral performance even at very long distances, though as usual, natural details appear better than the sharp, high-contrast test chart. So, I next need to make a decision on how to proceed.
If this retail-purchased lens is performing properly, it might be worth carrying the additional weight of the Sigma Art Lens. Here is that comparison.
The Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM Lens is available for order at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM Lens from Lensrentals.
Sony has made Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens firmware update version 06 available for download.
Firmware Version 06 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Improves operational stability during AF under certain conditions.
From Canon USA:
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From Sony Electronics
Sony Electronics Announces New Airpeak S1 Professional Drone
Sony’s First Professional Drone is World’s Smallest that can be Equipped with Alpha Mirrorless Camera, Boasts High Speed and Stable Flight Performance
SAN DIEGO, CA – June 9, 2021 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced their first-ever professional drone, the "Airpeak S1"[i]. An introductory model in the new Airpeak line, the S1 is the world's smallest[ii] drone that can be equipped with a full-size mirrorless interchangeable-lens Alpha camera, opening up a new world of creative possibilities.
The new drone utilizes a proprietary motor, propeller, control system and sensing technology, allowing it to fly at extremely high speeds with very stable wind resistance. Additionally, the Airpeak S1 features an advanced remote controller that can support the production of high-quality aerial images and freely control the aircraft. It also includes obstacle detection, automatic flight control via sensing and increased safety via cloud management of the aircraft and flight information.
“Sony is excited to launch our new drone business with the Airpeak S1,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “Combining an extremely compact size with some of Sony’s most advanced imaging, sensing, AI and robotics technologies, the S1 will allow content creators, storytellers and commercial professionals to capture that which they’ve never been able to capture before.”
Aircraft with Advanced Flight Performance
The new Airpeak S1 offers dynamic flying capabilities, including a maximum speed of 55mph (90km/h)[iii], a maximum angular velocity of 180°/s[iv], and a maximum tilt angle of 55°[v].
Propulsion technology using a combination of Sony developed key devices provides wind resistance in strong wind speeds up to 44.7mph[vi] (20m/s). An example can be viewed below.
Independently developed propulsion device and flight control system
In addition to the lightweight, highly efficient, sturdy and responsive proprietary 17" propeller and brushless motor, the Airpeak S1 is equipped with an ESC (Electric Speed Controller) for optimal control of these components. A unique, high-performance flight control system integrates the propulsion device and all sensor information to ensure stable flight and high maneuverability.
Stable Flight by Sensing
Stereo cameras equipped with Sony’s image sensors are installed in 5 locations (front, back, left, right, bottom) of the aircraft. Sony's Vision Sensing Processor, which processes camera data at high speed and with low power consumption, and proprietary algorithms are used to accurately estimate the aircraft's spatial position and orientation in real time, enabling stable flight even in environments where GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) reception may be hindered, such as indoors or under bridges. The Airpeak S1 is also equipped with a unique high-performance flight control system that integrates all sensor information such as IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), direction, barometric pressure and infrared ranging to optimize the propulsion device.
The Airpeak S1 uses Multi-directional sensors to enable its obstacle braking function. The front, rear, left and right stereo cameras and the infrared range-finding sensor mounted on the top recognize obstacles in the vicinity of the aircraft, allowing the aircraft to automatically decelerate and stop according to the behavior of the aircraft and the surrounding conditions.
Multiple Camera and Lens Variations
Users have the flexibility to choose the right Alpha system for their desired application to expand their filmmaking horizons. The Airpeak S1 is compatible with a wide range of camera bodies including: the Alpha 7S series and FX3 for high descriptive capability with suppressed noise, the Alpha 7R series for ultra-high definition, and the Alpha 9 series and others for distortion-free images. The Alpha 1, which can shoot footage in 8K, is also compatible.
Free Operability
The new professional drone includes “Airpeak Flight,” an iOS® and iPadOS® compatible application[vii] that integrates the aircraft, transmitter, camera, and gimbal, allowing the operator to monitor status information such as flight distance and remaining battery power, and change various operations and settings on the screen.
Airpeak S1 also includes a dual operation mode so that one user can operate the drone, while another user can operate the gimbal and camera simultaneously, all while checking the same image, even in complicated scenes. The FPV (First Person View) camera, which can be tilt-operated from the remote controller, is mounted on the nose of the aircraft and is useful for the operator to check the direction of the aircraft and the direction of travel.
Highly Efficient Workflow with Automatic Flight
The new drone includes "Airpeak Base," a web application that allows the operator to manage equipment, create flight plans, and manage flight logs. In the equipment management, information on the equipment used is automatically listed and managed based on the flight log. This allows the operator to check the condition of the aircraft before going to the field, minimizing on-set issues.
With Airpeak Base, the operator can create advanced flight plans and automatically fly the aircraft along the same course repeatedly, as if the drone were on rails installed in the air. It is able to set the position (latitude, longitude and altitude) and speed of the aircraft along the timeline, and specify the orientation of the gimbal and the timing of video or still image shooting. It can also draw smooth curves on the map. Reproduction flight is an automatic flight function that reproduces the flight route, gimbal, and camera movements based on the flight logs that have flown in the past.
All aircraft information, including logs, can be uploaded to the cloud via the mobile app Airpeak Flight. Airpeak Base allows users to check the status of the aircraft and can provide notifications if necessary. Users can manage the status of all managed aircraft in one place before flight. Past flight logs can be viewed on the logbook screen, and details such as in-flight errors can also be reviewed.
Related Services
“Airpeak Plus," a cloud service that allows users to use the rich features of Airpeak Base, and "Airpeak Protect Plan," a service plan to cover accidental damage to the product, will be available to customers. Further details regarding both services will be available on the Airpeak website before the related products and services go on sale
Pricing and Availability
The new Airpeak S1 suggested retail price is approximately $9,000.00 and will ship with two (2) pairs of propellers, a remote controller, two (2) batteries and a battery charger. A third-party gimbal made specifically for the Airpeak S1 will be sold separately. The Airpeak S1 will be available for pre-order and ship to customers in the fall of 2021. Airpeak S1 is made in Japan.
Orders
Order your Sony Airpeak S1 Professional Drone at B&H.
Notes:
[i] Operating a drone in the USA is regulated by federal law and regulations. State and local ordinances may also apply to certain operations. When operating a drone, it is the remote pilot’s responsibility to always comply with applicable laws and regulations.
[ii] Based on Sony research and testing.
[iii] No payload, and obstacle brake disabled.
[iv] Vision positioning disabled.
[v] Obstacle brake disabled.
[vi] No payload.
[vii] All apps require network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information.
[viii] Those who use drones to provide products and services to customers. If you register as a professional supporter, you will receive emails about events sponsored by Sony, opportunities to experience aircraft flight, and the latest product information.
Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs, and measurements have been added to the Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens page.
Here are some comparisons to get you started:
Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens compared to Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G Lens
Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens compared to Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens
Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens compared to Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 Lens
Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens compared to Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM Lens
Many more good comparisons are available – select the ones most relevant to you.
The Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G Lens from Lensrentals.
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From Canon USA:
Canon Announces Additional Details of EOS R3 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Currently In-Development
Following up on the announcement of the development of Canon’s most powerful professional full-frame camera, the EOS R3, Canon has new details to share on the upcoming product.
The upcoming EOS R3 will offer enhanced AF performance and tracking capabilities using Deep Learning technology, with even better face, eye, head, and animal body detection. The EOS R3 will add vehicle subject recognition and tracking for cars and motorcycles, ideal for photographers capturing fast-action motorsports.
The EOS R3 will be able to autofocus in extreme low light conditions up to EV-7, along with up to eight stops of coordinated IS control when used with RF lenses that feature Optical Image Stabilization. Users of the upcoming EOS R3 will be able to shoot 4K video with Canon Log 3 support, oversampled 4K, and RAW movie internal recording.
For added flexibility and the necessary support for high-speed image transfer, the EOS R3 will have Wired LAN and 5GHz Wi-Fi capability built-in. The new accessory shoe will provide further options for data communication and power while also supporting new accessories. In addition, the use of Canon Speedlite products will still be possible when the EOS R3’s electronic shutter is active.
Additional Specifications Include:
- Dual-card slots: 1 CF Express, 1 SD
- LP-E19 battery
- Magnesium-Alloy body
- Vari-angle touch LCD monitor
- Multi and smart controller equipped
Visit our Canon EOS R3 page for additional information.
Canon has released more information about and pictures of the EOS R3.
Get the details in the second set of bullet points on the Canon EOS R3 page.
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