Lensrentals has shared their always-interesting annual top rented cameras and lenses list.
Let me introduce you to your new favorite event, portrait, and indoor sports lens, the Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens.
There are several reasons for this prediction.
The first is the focal length. The 135mm angle of view is narrow enough to encourage subject distances that create pleasing portrait perspectives, even for full-frame headshots. This angle of view also keeps the lens out of their personal space, staying distant enough for subjects to remain comfortable.
The ultra-wide aperture is another reason for this lens to be a favorite. The F1.8 aperture combined with high-performing image stabilization keeps shutter speeds up and ISO settings down for sharp, low-noise results. F1.8 combined with the medium telephoto focal length can create a strong background blur that makes the subject stand out from an otherwise distracting background.
If those two reasons are not sufficient for you, the image quality delivered by this lens will be. Even the preproduction lens produced outstanding image quality.
This mariachi band member performing at a low light event was a perfect subject for this lens and the Canon EOS R6 Mark II behind it.
"Lightweight and ideal for journalism, audio for video, and documentary applications, the M3 MicTrak from Zoom is a camera-mounted, combination shotgun microphone and recorder, with two internal shotgun mics that can switch between hyper-focused supercardioid (90°) or wider bidirectional (180°) modes at the press of a button. Thanks to dual AD converter circuits inherited from the pro F-Series recorders, no gain adjustment is necessary, and the M3 captures quality audio in 48 kHz / 32-bit floating point for crisp sound without clipping."
Get rest of the new Zoom M3 MicTrak Stereo Shotgun Microphone and Recorder details at B&H. The M3 is in stock and only $199.99.
The Zoom M2 and M4 MicTrak Stereo Microphone and Recorder are also just available.
Sharing a favorite image from my late summer and early fall elk photography here. The colors in this image are right out of the camera using Lightroom's default settings — I didn't create this 7x7 bull's unique orange antler color during post-processing.
The great lighting (and water drop streaks) is curtesy of a rainy day. When photographing wildlife, I always keep a LensCoat rain cover on my camera and lens. With a quality rain shell on me, moderate rain does not hinder the pursuit, and it often enhances the photos.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Noise test results (high ISO noise – not audible sounds) are now available for the Canon EOS R6 Mark II in electronic shutter mode, including exdposure variance results.
The R6 II shifts from 14-bit to 12-bit capture in electronic shutter mode. While the noise in 12-bit images appears similar to that of 14-bit images at the exposed brightness, 12-bit image noise levels are increased in brightened images.
Get the Canon EOS R6 Mark II at B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA | WEX
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On page 267 in the owner's manual, Canon reveals that the EOS R6 Mark II supports focus breathing during movie recording. The RF lens firmware updates released today support this feature.
Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L IS USM Lens firmware update version 1.0.3 is available for download.
Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens firmware update version 1.0.8 is available for download.
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens firmware update version 1.0.8 is available for download.
Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens firmware update version 1.1.4 is available for download.
Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens firmware update version 1.1.1 is available for download.
These firmware updates incorporate the following enhancement:
From Tamron Japan (translated):
[Update] Firmware update for 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD (Model B028) for Canon
Thank you for your continued patronage of Tamron products.
On our website dated October 25, 2022, when using our lens 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD (Model B028) with Canon EOS R7 / EOS R10 via an EF-EOS R adapter, we posted a notice that the problem occurred, but we would like to inform you that it has been improved by updating the firmware.
Points to be improved
A phenomenon in which AF may not operate properly when the shutter button is half-pressed, depending on the timing of the camera's power ON/OFF.
How to update
It is possible to update with the TAP-in Console (sold separately). If you do not have a TAP-in Console, we will update the firmware (free of charge).
Click here for details >>>
Learn more: Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD Lens Review
Get the Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD Lens at B&H.
Canon EOS C70 firmware update version 1.0.5.1 is available today, as promised.
From Canon USA:
Canon Introduces Multi-Feature Firmware Update for EOS C70 4K Digital Cinema Camera
MELVILLE, NY, November 16, 2022 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today a multi-feature firmware update for the EOS C70 4K Digital Cinema Camera. The batch of feature upgrades coming via a firmware update will help to improve workflow and functionality for the content creation, live production and documentarian markets. The firmware update will be available as a free download on December 8th, 2022*. Top upgrades include:
Additional upgrades of the firmware update include:
Canon EOS R5 firmware update version 1.7.0 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.7.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R5 at B&H.
Canon EOS R6 firmware update version 1.7.0 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.7.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R6 at B&H.
Think Tank Photo has launched the Speedtop Crossbody Series Shoulder Bags featuring a convenient magnetic lid closure.
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).
Noise test results are now available for the Canon EOS R6 Mark II.
Again, no surprises here. The results look great.
Here is a comparison with the 20 megapixel EOS R6 (the higher resolution R6 II sample is the larger background image).
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Rent the Canon EOS R6 Mark II from Lensrentals.
Usually, heavy cropping of a full-frame image is required to fill the frame with the moon. Not so when using the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens with an RF 2x Extender behind it.
At the magnification provided by 2400mm, keeping the moon in the frame (without a tracking mount) is problematic. The moon must be led by the right amount to be centered in the frame after the vibrations settle out.
Fortunately, it is easy to precisely center the moon during post-processing – as long no edges are clipped. The black border is easy to extend on any side.
Is this full-sized image sharp? Not especially so. The wide-open f/16 aperture has some diffraction impact, 2x extenders magnify aberrations, and worse is the atmospheric distortion.
Would I buy a $20,000 lens to photograph the moon? While the 2400mm focal length is difficult to obtain otherwise, no, I'm not that serious about photographing the moon. But if you have the lens, the moon makes a fun subject.
A larger version of this image is available here.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is here, and it is time to set up this camera for use. Following are the 44 steps taken to prepare an out-of-the-box R6 II.
I make additional menu and other setting changes based on current shooting scenarios, but this list covers my initial camera setup process.
To copy this configuration means you intend to shoot as I do – including in RAW-only format. While this setup works great for me, you should adjust the setup to your needs.
If you can't remember your menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a great idea. Anytime the camera is set to the factory state, such as when serviced or when acquiring an additional camera, the list will ensure all settings are re-established. If you purchase another same or similar camera, setup will be fast and identical.
More Information
Support this site by ordering the Canon EOS R6 Mark II from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Canon EOS R6 Mark II from Lensrentals.
Resolution test results are now available for the Canon EOS R6 Mark II.
No surprises here. The results look great.
Here is a comparison with the 20 megapixel EOS R6.
Support this site by ordering the Canon EOS R6 Mark II from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Canon EOS R6 Mark II from Lensrentals.
From Rode:
The VideoMicro II is a professional-quality microphone that will instantly elevate the audio of your camera or smartphone. Ultra-compact, lightweight and easy-to-use, it is perfect for run-and-gun filmmaking, content creation, or if you simply want to record better audio for your videos.
Key Features:
Get the full details on the just-announced, affordable Rode VideoMicro II Mic, and preorder it at B&H.
I've probably purchased a Canon 24-105 F4 L IS Lens a dozen times. This series of lenses, including the Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM Lens, Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens, and Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens, are professional-grade, high-performing, relatively compact and lightweight, and affordable. That combination, along with the versatile 24-105mm focal length range, make these lenses ideal for many uses, including family, travel, and hiking.
So, why do I keep rebuying them, aside from the new models becoming available? Well, I try to keep the kit trimmed to the gear that is most important to me. I sometimes shoot moving subjects in low light, such as at indoor events, and in these scenarios, an aperture wider than f/4 is desired. Thus, there is always a 24-70mm F2.8 L lens in the kit.
With a significant general-purpose focal length range covered, it seems that 24-70mm lens should be adequate for all needs. When there is some time space since the last 24-105 F4 need, the 24-105 gets sold to finance seemingly more important needs.
Then, a need arises that reminds me that I really do need that lens, usually for its size, weight, and focal length range, and I re-buy it. And, the story repeats – more often than it should.
The second Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM Lens arrived in my kit earlier this year. With some long hikes on the schedule, the need for this lens again became apparent. I bought it to keep this time (unless I forget the reasons again), and it performed impressively.
One location that the RF 24-105 was perfect for was Badlands National Park.
Few elements make a prairie more photogenic than a good storm with a rainbow, and the first thing I grab when a rainbow shows up is a Breakthrough Photography circular polarizer filter.
A larger version of this image is available here.
From Reikan Technology Ltd:
FoCal Mobile provides a user-friendly auto focus check and calibration tool, taking the most useful parts of FoCal Pro and making them available for use on iPhone, iPad and Android devices.
Focus calibration and AF system check work with all cameras supported by Reikan FoCal Pro. Over 60 different Canon and Nikon digital SLR cameras are supported including Nikon Z series mirrorless up to the Nikon Z9.
Connecting up cameras is made simple, a USB to lightning connector may be required for some iPhones but otherwise a simple USB connection to the camera is all that's required. Completely wireless connectivity is also possible using the Reikan Wireless Camera module (available separately).
The FoCal Mobile App is now publically available on Apple App Store as well as the Google Play Store, the unpaid download provides Verify Setup, Sync Camera Time and AF System Check to really find out how well the connected camera is focusing.
With in-app purchase Full AF System Calibration allows users to calibrate camera auto focus and compare their personal calibration result with other FoCal users by using the FoCal comparison database.
More details on the Reikan FoCal blog https://blog.reikanfocal.com/2022/11/reikan-focal-mobile-1-0-released/.
From Tamron USA:
TAMRON Announces the Launch of TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™ for Android™ OS
Users can now tune lens features in the field via a smartphone.
November 28, 2022, Commack, NY - Tamron announces the launch of TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™, a dedicated application for smartphones and tablets running with Android™1 OS that provides convenient use in the field and expands the possibilities of video and still photography. The application is the mobile version of the TAMRON Lens UtilityTM dedicated Windows and Mac PC software that has earned praise from many TAMRON lens users since its release in October 2021 and was developed in-house by TAMRON. The application will be available on Google Play™ on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.
The TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile is compatible with Androids running with OS 6-122 and the following TAMRON lens models: 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063), 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD (Model A058), and 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A062).3 4
Summary of TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile
October 2021 marked the release of TAMRON Lens Utility, a dedicated PC software that enables the customization of various functions of select TAMRON lenses to match the video and still photography style of the lens user. Since then, we have received feedback regarding improved convenience from customers wishing to make lens function customizations when shooting in the field. As a result, we have developed TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile for Android OS. Using the TAMRON Connection Cable5, an Android smart device can be connected to a lens to easily configure lens customizations without requiring a computer.
A new function that enables lens operations to be controlled from a smartphone has also been added. For example, the A-B Focus function that smoothly shifts the focus from one preselected subject to another can be setup without touching the lens.
Expansion of functions in the future is possible to make users even more comfortable to try out video production.
Functions of TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile
1. Tethered remote control
2. Customizing the Custom Switch or Focus Set Button (Normal functions available with the PC version)
*The function of the Focus Set Button can be cleared.
3. Customizing the Focus Ring
For more details, please visit TAMRON Lens Utility product page: https://www.tamron.jp/en/product/software/lensutility.html
* Lens firmware updates are not supported with the Mobile version. Performing firmware updates requires the TAMRON Lens Utility for PC and a computer.
* This application is designed for Android OS. Please note that iOS is not supported at this time.
[1] Android is a trademark of Google LLC.
[2] Compatible with Android devices fitted with USB Type-C ports only.
[3] Please update your lens to the latest firmware before using TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile. For the firmware update, please use TAMRON Lens Utility PC version.
[4] TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile will be supported on the 50-400mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD (Model A067) at a later date. When the new firmware is released, it will be announced on the “Support” page (https://www.tamron.jp/en/support/). In addition, the “Compatible Lens List (https://www.tamron.jp/en/support/lensutility/help/compatible_lenses/)” under the “TAMRON Lens Utility Online Help” shall be updated as well.
[5] TAMRON Connection Cable (USB Type C to Type C) (Model CC-350) is sold separately.
[6] With the Mobile version, the focus travel time can be specified in 0.1-second increments. With the PC version, there are eight possible speed levels.
Support this site by getting your Tamron lens at B&H.
I added a new turkey image to the collection this year. While exploring Badlands National Park with a workshop group, we found a Merriam's gobbler strutting in a tree.
The unusual behaving turkey cooperated long enough for everyone to shoot him.
For that small thing, I give thanks, and today is the day that those of us residing in the USA are celebrating our "Thanksgiving" holiday. As you probably guessed from the name, we set aside this day to give thanks for our abundant blessings (and eat lots of food, often including turkey). While thankfulness should be a perpetual state of mind, this day can give that spirit a significant boost.
Always near the top of my thankful list is you. The support you have provided over the years has made developing this site possible and for that, I'm very grateful.
My family and I wish you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving!
A larger version of this image is available here.