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/.
Firmware update version 2 for the following lenses is now available for download and installation via Tamron Lens Utility.
Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens
Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD Lens
Firmware Version 2 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get your Tamron lens at B&H.
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.
"Capture One 23 (16.0.1) is a service release containing new camera support and several bug fixes."
Get the full details of this update in the release notes.
Hot Deal — Half Price!
Capture One 23 is on sale for half price at B&H and Adorama.
Just posted: Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens Review.
This is an interesting lens — compact, lightweight, affordable, and a good performer. Sometimes, the 20-40mm focal length range is ideal, avoiding frequent lens changes.
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
The big super-telephoto lenses deliver the ultimate wildlife image quality. The Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens and Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS Lens are my favorite wildlife lenses, and they are my easy first choices for photographing elk.
However, there are times when wider would be helpful — a wider focal length and a wider aperture. In those cases, the Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens and Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens become my first choices. Unfortunately, flying with and managing two big lenses in the field is challenging.
This year, I opted to take on that challenge, taking a lens from each class to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Pelican 1615 Air Wheeled Hard Case was the primary solution to the mentioned challenge. When flying, the camera bodies were unmounted, the big lens hoods were reversed, pads were added, and additional lenses were included in the case — up to the airline-checked bag weight limit. The case was locked and checked.
In the field, the configuration shown below worked great. With the Robus monopods removed, the Pelican case closed, enabling easy and safe transport to and from my room.
As pictured, both lenses in their LensCoat covers were immediately available for roadside opportunities or for the long stalk.
This bull elk, fresh out of the wallow, was proud of his muddy (and smelly) coat and looking for cows. When photographing wildlife, predicting behavior correctly delivers the ultimate shots, and I guessed this one right.
Seeing the relatively short working distance available for the potential water crossing, the Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens got the call. This lens's angle of view was just wide enough to fit the elk in the frame, and the f/2.8 aperture strongly blurred the background, which is not easy to do while fitting a large elk in the frame.
A larger version of this image is available here.
From Sigma Global:
Firmware update for SIGMA Global Vision lenses in Sony E-mount
Thank you for purchasing and using our products.
We would like to announce that a new firmware update is now available for SIGMA Global Vision lenses in Sony E-mount listed below.
[Applicable products]
·SIGMA 16-28mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary in Sony E-mount
·SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary in Sony E-mount
[Benefit of the update]
·AF assist function during video recording is now supported.
*Only Sony camera models with AF assist function are supported.
[Applicable product]
·SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports in Sony E-mount
[Benefits of the update]
·AF assist function during video recording is now supported.
*Only Sony camera models with AF assist function are supported.
·The phenomenon whereby in rare cases the focus moves after being set during single AF when it is used on the Sony a7 IV has been corrected.
[How to update]
Please select the applicable product from the following page, go to the download page, click “Sony E-mount” and follow the update procedure. https://www.sigma-global.com/en/support/purpose/firmware/?mode=search&product_category=lens
*After the update is complete, be sure to remove the battery pack from the camera and reinsert it.
Learn more:
Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens Review
Sigma 16-28mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens Review
Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens Review
Learn more about the new Sony 256GB SF-G TOUGH Series UHS-II SDXC Memory Card at B&H.
From ProGrade Digital
PROGRADE DIGITAL ANNOUNCES A HIGHER CAPACITY 512GB MEMORY CARD
SDXC V60 512GB Enables You to Capture a Larger Number of Stills and Record Extended Number of Video Clips at a New Price Point
San Jose, CA November 15, 2022, 8:00 am —ProGrade Digital, Inc., founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces its higher capacity SDXC UHS-II V60 512GB memory card. With the same sustained read speeds of up to 250MB/s and sustained write speed of up to 130MB/s as our other SD V60 Gold memory cards professionals can now capture even longer clips of high-resolution video and/or greater amount of still images. ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II, U3, Class 10, V60 cards bring high performance to digital cinema cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras, which produce incredibly rich data streams and require greater capacity from a memory card.
“The addition of an SD V60, 512GB capacity point into our Gold product line provides a nice option for those shooting large amounts of 4K video at bit rates that don’t demand a V90 performance level,” said Wes Brewer, founder, and CEO of ProGrade Digital. We see this capacity and performance level providing a great value to less demanding photography and videography needs with a very attractive price point just under $200 USD.” This card will also be compatible with our unique Refresh Pro™ software, allowing professionals to refresh their ProGrade Digital cards back to factory condition and monitor the health of their cards.
ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II V60 512GB, U3, Class 10 portfolio:
SD V60 Delivers:
Card Format: SDXC UHS-II, U3, Class 10, V60
Speed: Up to 2500 MB/s read speed, Up to 130MB/s write speed
Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Pricing: $54.99, $104.99, $199.99 Orders
Order the ProGrade Digital SDXC Memory Cards at B&H.
Sabrent, a popular and respected brand in the computer accessories market, is now producing memory cards and readers. I mentioned using them recently, and here is a closer look at the Sabrent CFexpress Type B and SDXC Memory Cards and Readers.
Support this site by ordering the Sabrent CFexpress Type B and SDXC Memory Cards and Readers from B&H.
From Lexar:
LEXAR ANNOUNCES NEW LEXAR® PROFESSIONAL CFEXPRESS™ TYPE A CARD GOLD SERIES 320GB – THE WORLD’S FASTEST CFEXPRESS TYPE A Key Features:
San Jose, USA, November 8, 2022 — Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory solutions, is proud to announce the new Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series in the 320GB capacity. Ideal for professional creators, photographers, and videographers who want to capture high-quality images with superior read speed up to 900MB/s. 1 The 320GB model will be bundled with the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A / SD™ USB 3.2 Gen 2 Reader for a more seamless workflow from field to post-production.
With read speed up to 900MB/s1 and write speed up to 800MB/s1, Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series 320GB is designed to seamlessly capture high-resolution images and cinema-quality 8K video. It is also ideal for professionals who need to handle demanding workflow on the go.
Also, the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series 320GB allows professional creators to get back to business without having to constantly switch cards. And for added peace of mind, the card is also rated Video Performance Guarantee 400 (VPG 400) meeting a minimum write speed of 700MB/s1 so your content is captured seamlessly without dropping a frame.
With superior performance to capture cinema-quality video, the Lexar® CFexpress™ Type A Card Gold Series in 320GB delivers the rugged durability you need to protect from temperature, shock, and vibration allowing you to capture more adventures and store valuable data in a variety of elements2.
“We are excited to announce the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series in the 320GB capacity. And, with the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A / SD™ USB 3.2 Gen 2 Reader included, professionals can expect top performance and speed up their workflow from capture to transfer and editing," said Joel Boquiren, General Manager of Lexar.
Lexar® Professional CFexpress Type A Card GOLD Series 320GB with Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A/SD™ Card Reader bundle is available now for purchase online at an MSRP of $ 699.99.
Orders
The Lexar Professional CFexpress Type A Memory Card GOLD Series and reader are in stock at B&H.
1 Up to 900MB/s sustained read transfer, write speeds lower. Speeds based on internal testing. Actual sustained speed may vary depending on the host device.
2 Temperature-proof: Withstands operating temperature range from 14ºF (-10ºC) to 158ºF (70 ºC) and non-operating temperatures from -4ºF (-20ºC) or 185ºF (85 ºC).
Shock resistant (50[G], 11[ms] / half sine wave. Apply the above impact 3 times from each of 3 orthogonal directions.)
Vibration resistant (10[Hz] to 2000[Hz] to 10[Hz], Sweep time: 20 minutes. 12 cycles per axis, (36 cycles for 3 axes), Test time: 12[hr]).
3 Lifetime limited warranty is limited to 10 years from purchase in Germany and regions not recognizing lifetime warranty.
4 Bundle for CFexpress Type A GOLD Series 320GB ONLY
Lexar is not liable for any loss of data or images.
Warning: CFexpress™ Type A cards are only compatible with devices that support the CFexpress™ format. Highest transfer speed achieved only when used with a CFexpress™ Type-A reader, indicated by a boxed USB logo on the product. Contact your device manufacturer for details.
Warning: Compatible with CFexpress™ Type A memory cards and SD™ memory cards only, as clearly indicated by the framed USB label on the card. The use of incompatible memory cards will result in data loss. For more information on memory cards, please consult the card manufacturer
[Note:]
[Product page only:] Product appearance, performance, software offerings, and packaging may vary depending on ship date and available inventory.
Actual usable memory capacity may vary. 1GB equals 1 billion bytes.
Sony Alpha 7 IV firmware update version 1.11 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.11 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H.
From Portkeys:
PortKeys PT6 Live Streaming Assist Monitor
PortKeys has launched the PT6 Live Streaming Assist Monitor, a 600-nit budget-friendly monitor packed with content creation and live streaming assist features.
The touchscreen display is a 5.2", 1920x1080 resolution monitor featuring a 600-nit peak brightness with a 1500:1 contrast ratio. The screen can display a 100% P3 colour gamut at 10-bit depth.
The display supports inputs up to 4096 x 2160 at 24hz. This wide range allows support for even the latest professional cameras.
As a live streaming assist monitor, the PT6 has an HDMI Output and Input. The PT6 can output a 1920x1080p signal at 60Hz. The PT6 can output a signal which includes a 3D LUT, Anamorphic De-Squeeze, UI from the Camera and the Stretch Legs feature. Live streaming can be achieved with only the PT6, a compatible camera and a live streaming box.
The Stretch Legs feature allows the user to stretch the image below a chosen point when shooting vertically. Alongside this feature, the PT6 has a customizable menu to access features such as Zebras, 3D Lut, and Luma Histograms.
The PT6 can de-squeeze anamorphic footage in a wide range of aspect ratios listed below.
The image brightness, tint and contrast can all be adjusted on the PT6, ready for perfect live-streaming output.
The PT6 has several options for peaking, which can be customized in the UI to help you nail focus every time.
A customized image crop can be applied on the PT6 and adjusted in the UI for the perfect output frame.
The PT6 has multiple power options. It supports Sony NP-F970/F960/F750/F550 and Canon LP-E6 batteries. Alternatively, the PT6 can also be powered with a 7~24V power supply. The battery tray features a lock to avoid heavier batteries falling out of place.
Additional interface features are a USB-A port that can be used for future firmware updates and 3D LUT importing. Alongside this, there is a 3.5mm microphone jack for audio monitoring. Included are the PT6 monitor, an MH-2 Mount, HDMI Cable, HDMI - Micro HDMI Cable, User Manual, Carrying Box and a Sunshade for outdoor monitoring.
Overall, for $169, the PT6 is a feature-packed monitor that will assist the video creation process for creators of all levels.
Full List of HDMI Output Features
Orders
Order the B&H.
This day was spent at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, a US Olympic & Paralympic training site, and the BMX stunt bikers were delivering incredible stunt after incredible stunt. While it was tempting to just watch the impressive action, images create a longer memory, and I had a job to do.
Fortunately, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens made capturing peak BMX bike stunt action easy.
The camera position for this image provided a beautiful blue sky background, and the camera angle took full advantage of the circular polarizer filter's effect. Despite the polarizer reducing light, the ultra-wide f/1.8 aperture allowed an action-stopping 1/1250 shutter speed at ISO 100.
With all focus points selected, the R6 II would pick up the stunt rider entering the frame and track them for the extent of the burst. The R6 II's 40 fps continuous shooting rate ensured that the perfect moment of every stunt was on the card.
While it was fun to shoot the stunt riders with wide-angle lenses on the ramp, the mid-telephoto 135mm focal length was ideal for keeping the rider large in the frame at the peak of the stunt, while still showing the ramp for perspective.
Note that a preproduction R6 II camera and RF 135 lens captured this image.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Lens firmware update version 2.0 is available for download.
Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens firmware update version 2.0 is available for download.
Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens firmware update version 3.0 is available for download.
Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens firmware update version 2.0 is available for download.
Firmware updates incorporate the following fixes and enhancements:
"Capture One 23 (16.0.0) is a feature release containing new functionality, new camera and lens support, and important bug fixes."
New features and functionality
General User Experience Improvements and tweaks
Get the full details of this update in the release notes.
Support this site by ordering Capture One Pro at B&H.
Image quality test results are now available on the Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens Review page.
Create some comparisons.
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
Rent the Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
It seemed awkward to show up for dinner with a tripod, but I did take a camera. Then the balance of the hotel lights with the blue hour sky called.
Until this point, most of the R6 II photo opportunities involved fast action that stressed its outstanding AF capabilities and high-speed frame rate. This subject was going nowhere, but the light was dim. While the ISO settings could be increased, a clear blue sky makes high ISO noise readily apparent.
Squatted down with a Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens set to 27mm and mounted to the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, The R6 II captured mostly sharp 1-second exposures and a solid number of sharp 2-second exposures (even with ADD kicking in before a second of holding the shutter release down). While a tripod would have been the optimal support for this shot, IBIS did the job remarkably well.
The capabilities of IBIS are extremely valuable, adding versatility to the kit. The value of adding image stabilization to your current non-stabilized lenses (including EF models) is huge.
Note that a preproduction R6 II captured this image.
A larger version of this image is available here.
From Canon USA:
Boundless Creativity: Canon Announces the Canon EOS R6 Mark II Hybrid Full-Frame Camera
New RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens and Speedlite EL-5 Flash Unit Also Announced
MELVILLE, NY, November 2, 2022 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the launch of the new EOS R6 Mark II camera body, Canon’s new hybrid full-frame camera, and the first EOS R series full-frame mirrorless to take the step into the second generation. In addition, Canon is also introducing the new RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM mid-telephoto portrait lens and Speedlite EL-5 flash unit.
Ideal for advanced amateurs and featuring user-friendly functions, the EOS R6 Mark II camera is a high-performance hybrid camera that’s designed to capture decisive moments in both photo and video formats. It will satisfy a wide range of needs including professional production, vlogging, still pictures, filmmaking, and more. The camera is also well-suited for various photography subjects such as portrait, landscape, sports and wildlife. With the EOS R6 Mark II camera, creativity has virtually no borders.
As the market share leader for mirrorless cameras in the United States through Q3 of 2022[i], Canon continues to strengthen its innovative EOS R lineup with the new EOS R6 Mark II camera. The EOS R6 Mark II offers enhanced video and photo functions, such as in-body Image Stabilization, as well as specifications that can satisfy video production needs, such as controlled focusing.
“As a filmmaker who is always on the move, I need a camera I can trust in a multitude of environments as well as keeping up with my fast paced style of shooting and the new Canon EOS R6 Mark II does just that.” said Canon Co-Lab Creator, Sam Newton.
In addition to its compact size and ease of use, the EOS R6 Mark II camera also features:
Alongside the new camera body, Canon has announced a new addition to its growing line of innovative RF lenses – the RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM. This is a fixed focal length mid-telephoto portrait lens that is compatible with any EOS R-series camera. The RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM achieves beautiful and generous bokeh with the large-diameter F1.8 and comes equipped with in-lens Image Stabilization. The coordinated control of this IS coupled with the in-body IS present in the EOS R6 Mark II camera and other EOS R equipped IBIS cameras helps reduce camera shake and empowers photographers to express a feel of motion when shooting in dark areas with slow shutter speeds.
“The image quality and super smooth bokeh out of the new RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM lens is absolutely spectacular and superior to the EF version.” said Canon Explorer of Light, Vanessa Joy.
Additionally, Canon has announced the new Speedlite EL-5 flash unit, designed for superior compatibility with the new EOS R6 Mark II. The Speedlite EL-5 is Canon’s first flash product compatible with the new multi-function shoe present in the EOS R6 Mark II, EOS R3, EOS R7 and EOS R10 cameras.
“The new Canon Speedlite EL-5 flash will give that magical kiss of light that brings a picture to life and illuminates your creative vision.” said Canon Explorer of Light, Bob Davis.
Price & Availability
Canon EOS R6 Mark II camera body only and kits with either the Canon RF24-105 F4 L IS USM or the RF24-105 F4.0-7.1 IS STM USM lens will be available in late November 2022 for estimated retail prices of $2499.00, $3599.00 and $2799.00 respectively*.
The Canon RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM will be available in late January 2023 for an estimated retail price of $2099.00*.
The Canon Speedlite EL-5 flash unit will be available in late March 2023 for an estimated retail price of $399.99*.
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Canon EOS R6 Mark II from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Order the Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
Order the Canon Speedlite EL-5 from B&H
# # #
[i] The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service, U.S., Detachable Lens Cameras, Digital Lens Type: Mirrorless, Jan.- Sept. 2022 combined.
[ii] Effectiveness varies depending on the subject. In some cases, dogs, cats or birds may not be detected, while some animals other than dogs, cats or birds may be detected.
[iii] CIPA standards compliant, using RF24-105 F4 L IS USM as the lens, with a focal length of 105mm.
* Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.