Nikon News (Page 24)

New EzyFrame Background 2m x 2.3m (6.5’ x 7.5’)
additional vintage covers and kits

Manfrotto, the world’s leading manufacturer of photography, video and cinema production equipment announces the launch of six new Vintage style Covers and Kits for the EzyFrame Background System.

These six new background surfaces have already proven extremely popular in our collapsible background collection and are favoured by image makers the world over for achieving a fashionable, hand painted vintage look that subtly complement the chosen subject in a truly portable solution.

These textures are inspired by this popular choice of background style and take influence from classic and present trends within the fashion, beauty and portraiture industry. They feature six fresh colours with a characteristic classic design and feel, which complement the existing range: Tobacco, Olive, Smoke and Concrete perfectly. Meaning there are now a total of ten beautiful surfaces to choose from in the highly innovative EzyFrame Background system.

The 2m x 2.3m (6.5’ x 7.5’) EzyFrame Background is a large format collapsible background system offering a much larger shooting area than our 5’ x 7’ collapsible ‘pop-up’ style backgrounds. The extra width and height combined with the squarer format offers an increased surface area of over 46% allowing the content creator to pose multiple subjects and use large props. Ideal for family portraits, more animated action poses, fashion and commercial shoots.

The Ezyframe Vintage Background features the tried and tested rapid assembly aluminium frame and clip on cover design used on our highly successful Skylite and ProScrim light control kits, Panoramic and Chroma Key FX Backgrounds and StudioLink Chroma Key solutions. Assembled in a matter of minutes the frame and cover packs down into a small rigid carry case measuring only 103cm x 19cm x 14cm (40.5” x 7.4” x 5.5”) making it extremely portable.

The EzyFrame Vintage Background covers include a small 15cm (6”) skirt along the bottom edge that conceals the aluminium frame and allows the user to combine the background with their chosen floor surface when shooting full length images. The background can be supported directly against a wall or freestanding using a light stand with a Manfrotto Griphead (LL LA8446). The EzyFrame Vintage Background is also compatible with the Manfrotto Aluminium Frame Support Kit (LL LA8450).

The backgrounds are available as kits which include frame, cover and carry case or ‘covers only’ for users looking to interchange different surfaces on the same frame.

Orders

Order Manfrotto EzyFrame Background from B&H.

Read the Capture One 21 (14.4.0) release notes for more information.

Get Capture One at B&H (Download, Mac/Windows).

From Prograde Digital:

Prograde Digital™ Announces CFExpress™ Type A Memory Card With Read Speeds Of 800mb/s

CFexpress Type A Cards Provide Minimum Sustained Write Speeds of 400MB/s (VPG 400)

San Jose, CA September 20, 2021, 8:00 am—ProGrade Digital™, founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces its new CFexpress™ Type A memory card. ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A cards provide read speeds up to 800MB/s and burst write speeds up to 700MB/s. In addition, ProGrade Digital’s CFexpress Type A card delivers a minimum sustained write speed of 400MB/s (VPG 400) – specifically designed for high-resolution video capture.

CFexpress Type A is a memory card format that is smaller than full-size SD, and bigger than microSD. By leveraging PCIe, Gen 3 interconnect with NVMe 1.3 host controller interface, CFexpress Type A provides levels of performance three times greater than the fastest UHS-II cards available in the market.

The CFexpress Type A form factor is gaining broad industry adoption due to its size and performance, and its open industry standard support from major device manufacturers.

“Due to the size and performance of CFexpress Type A, we believe that next generation compact DSLR and mirrorless cameras will start adopting this form factor over SD as we have already seen in some of the new cameras” said Wes Brewer, founder and CEO of ProGrade Digital. “We are now able to offer the widest range of CFexpress card choices to meet both current and future needs of all leading-edge imaging applications. Coupled with our CFexpress Type A USB 3.2 Gen 2 high speed reader, our customers have a complete solution for capturing and downloading still and video images as well as enhancing their digital imaging workflow.”

Orders

Order Prograde Digital CFExpress Cards from B&H.

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A memory card key features:

• Fully compliant with CompactFlash™ Association 2.0 specification
• NVMe host interface with PCIe Gen3 X1 interconnect
• Extended battery life and low standby power through NVMe PS0 – PS4 support
• Metal enclosure for improved durability and heat dissipation
• Thermal throttling protects card from overheating
• Unique serialized tracking of every card enabling identification of key components and manufacturing data for the highest quality control
• Rigorous 100% full card testing down to individual memory chips for optimal quality
• X-ray proof, shock-proof
• Temperature ranges: operating 14 to 158°F/ -10 to 70°C; storage -4 to 185°F/ -20 to 85°C
• Three year warranty
• MSRP $329.99

ProGrade Digital CFexpress portfolio:

CFexpress Type A Cobalt

• Maximum read speed 800MB/s
• Burst write speed 700MB/s
• Minimum sustained write speed 400MB/s (VPG 400)
• Capacities: 160GB

CFexpress Type B Cobalt

• Maximum read speed 1700MB/s
• Burst write speed 1500MB/s
• Minimum sustained write speed 1400MB/s
• Capacities: 325GB, 650GB

CFexpress Type B Gold

• Maximum read speed 1700MB/s
• Burst write speeds up to 1500MB/s
• Minimum sustained write speeds up to 400MB/s
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

Adorama is having a big Flashpoint Lighting & Studio Sale.

Now is a good time to consider expanding the lighting kit.

From Sigma:

SIGMA Introduces 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary Lens

See the bigger picture.

KEY FEATURES:

• I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users
• New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line
• Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor

The all-new SIGMA 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary delivers exceptional edge-to-edge rendering power in an ultra-compact, all-metal body. This impressive, wide-angle, I series prime is now available for L-Mount and Sony E-mount systems.

The 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary premium compact prime is the latest prime lens to be added to SIGMA's growing I series range. It joins four existing I series lenses as well as the new 90mm F2.8, offering superb optical performance, a bright F2 aperture, an all-metal build and a manual aperture ring. Designed from the ground up for mirrorless systems it feels perfectly-balanced on modern full-frame bodies, and boasts exceptional resolving power that can keep up with the latest ultra-high-resolution cameras.

The lens' advanced optical design produces sharp, high-contrast results from the center of the frame to the far corners, and together with its F2 aperture and wide angle-of-view, it's an excellent choice for night sky photography, events and interiors. Owing to its compact size, the lens can be carried around effortlessly, which makes it perfect for day-to-day use. The high quality, all-metal construction – which is found on all of SIGMA's I series models – makes the experience of owning and operating this lens extremely satisfying.

This new full-frame 24mm F2 prime is designed for photographers who need a sharp, fast, robust, wide-angle optic that will not weigh them down. It is available for L-Mount and Sony E-mount systems.

I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users

The SIGMA I series features full-frame-compatible lenses that offer mirrorless users a new and better alternative, both in the experience of shooting with the lens and in the impressive results it is able to achieve.

One of the key advantages of mirrorless cameras is their smaller form-factor, and this new SIGMA 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary optic is designed to be perfectly matched to these more compact systems without sacrificing performance. This combination of superb optical quality with exceptional portability, not previously possible with DSLR systems, will bring new opportunities to this and future generations of photographers.

Simultaneously, SIGMA is aware that, in this day and age when we have such huge diversity when it comes to what we use to photograph, as represented by smartphones, people look for something more than a mere act of "taking pictures" when they choose to own a camera and lenses.

SIGMA's excellence in development and processing technologies has been built up since it was founded in 1961, and has become further sophisticated with the introduction of the SIGMA Global Vision in 2012. With this as a base SIGMA has given careful thought to how photographers use and enjoy their lenses, including optical design, advanced functionality, build quality and the experience of picking up and using the lens, and with all of this carefully considered the I series was born.

New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line

The SIGMA 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary, like the SIGMA 35mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary and the SIGMA 65mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary, combines the highest level of optical performance even at its maximum aperture of F2 and a well-balanced body.

The lens uses two SLD glass elements and one FLD glass element to correct axial chromatic aberration, which is a particular concern with bright lenses. It also incorporates two high-precision glass-molded aspherical elements, made possible by the processing technology of SIGMA's sole production facility in Aizu. This has enabled the total number of lens elements to be kept down and the size and weight of the lens to be reduced, while providing excellent correction of various aberrations.

In anticipation of wide-angle lens applications, SIGMA's optical designers have ensured the lens resolution is extremely high, and is uniform from the center to the periphery of the image. Sagittal coma flare is also well suppressed, giving the lens a high degree of rendering power that makes it ideal for night sky photography.

The AF drive system incorporates a quiet, high-speed stepping motor. This allows photographers to capture every detail of the spacious 24mm scene with light AF.

Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor

All I series lenses have an all-metal construction. The precision-cut aluminum parts not only give the barrel a sleek, stylish finish, but provide superb durability that improves the quality of the entire product. Metal materials are also used in internal structures that slide with the operation ring for added robustness. These high-precision components crafted with SIGMA's cutting-edge metalworking technology are also used in SIGMA's cine lens line-up for professional cinematographers and provide a tactile, ergonomic feel that make the lens a pleasure to use.

The cover ring between the focus ring and the aperture ring has hairline processing that is also used for the rear cylinder of the Art line. This covering functions as a finger hold when attaching or detaching the lens.

Additional Features

• Lens construction: 13 elements in 11 groups, with 1 FLD, 2 SLD and 2 aspherical lens elements
• Inner focus system
• Compatible with high-speed autofocus
• Stepping motor
• Compatible with lens aberration correction (Supported cameras only. Available corrections may vary depending on the camera model.)
• Supports DMF and AF+MF
• Super Multi-Layer Coating
• Aperture ring
• Focus mode switch
• Petal-type lens hood (LH656-02)
• Magnetic metal lens cap (LCF62-01M)
• Mount with dust and splash resistant structure
• Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
• Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
• Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system
• 9-blade rounded diaphragm
• High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
• "Made in Japan" craftsmanship

Key Specifications:

Lens Construction: 11 groups, 13 elements (1 FLD, 2 SLD, and 2 aspherical lenses)
Angle of View: 84.1°
Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture: F22
Minimum Focusing Distance: 9.65 in. / 24.5cm
Maximum Magnification 1:6.7
Filter Size (mm): ?62mm
Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 2.76 x 2.83 in. / 70 x 72mm
Weight: 12.9 oz. / 365g
Available Mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-Mount
Supplied Accessories: FRONT CAP LCF III 62mm, LENS HOOD LH656-02, REAR CAP LCR II

All figures calculated by L-Mount.
Appearance, specifications, and other aspects of the product are subject to change for improvement without notice.

Orders

Order the Sigma 24mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens at B&H.

From Sigma:

SIGMA Introduces 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary Lens

Capture every inspiring moment.

KEY FEATURES:

• I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users
• New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line
• Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor

Introducing the all-new SIGMA 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary mid-telephoto I series prime for mirrorless systems. This compact 90mm F2.8 optic is versatile, well-built and offers stunning optical performance, making it perfect for portraits, close-ups, weddings and events.

A brand new 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary premium compact prime has been added to SIGMA's growing I series range. It joins four existing I series primes as well as the all-new 24mm F2, offering superb optical performance, a bright F2.8 aperture, an all-metal build and a manual aperture ring. Designed especially for mirrorless systems it feels well-balanced on modern full-frame bodies, and boasts exceptional resolving power that can keep up with the latest ultra-high-resolution cameras.

With its versatile mid-telephoto focal length, the lens is the longest I series lens yet, but still remains remarkably compact and light so is ideal for day-to-day use. It is fully-optimized for mirrorless systems with ultra-fast and accurate AF performance, and it boasts outstanding optical capabilities. The rich, smooth bokeh makes for attractive backgrounds, which is perfect for portraits, and the minimum focusing distance of 50cm allows photographers to get closer to their subject.

This high-quality, everyday lens is able to bring scenes to life with its beautiful rendering and ultra-sharp optics, all in a portable, robust and tactile lens body.

I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users

The SIGMA I series features full-frame-compatible lenses that offer mirrorless users a new and better alternative, both in the experience of shooting with the lens and in the impressive results it is able to achieve.

One of the key advantages of mirrorless cameras is their smaller form-factor, and this new SIGMA 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary optic is designed to be perfectly matched to these more compact systems without sacrificing performance. This combination of superb optical quality with exceptional portability, not previously possible with DSLR systems, will bring new opportunities to this and future generations of photographers.

Simultaneously, SIGMA is aware that, in this day and age when we have such huge diversity when it comes to what we use to photograph, as represented by smartphones, people look for something more than a mere act of "taking pictures" when they choose to own a camera and lenses.

SIGMA's excellence in development and processing technologies has been built up since it was founded in 1961, and has become further sophisticated with the introduction of the SIGMA Global Vision in 2012. With this as a base SIGMA has given careful thought to how photographers use and enjoy their lenses, including optical design, advanced functionality, build quality and the experience of picking up and using the lens, and with all of this carefully considered the I series was born.

New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line

The SIGMA 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary boasts exceptional optical performance with a ultra-high resolving power to match the latest high-resolution mirrorless cameras.

The lens is built using the very latest optical technology, and includes five SLD glass elements. This helps to reduce axial chromatic aberration that cannot be corrected in-camera, allowing the lens to achieve high resolution and clear image quality with no color bleeding. A high-precision glass molded aspherical lens provides both high resolution and beautiful bokeh. Photographers can enjoy shooting with soft, large bokeh without coloration and this is something that only a full-frame lens is able to deliver.

The lens also utilizes the camera's optical correction functionality, which is an advantage of mirrorless systems, SIGMA's optical designers were therefore able to concentrate on correcting aberrations that can only be corrected by the optical design, thereby improving rendering performance and reducing the size and weight of the lens.

With a minimum focusing distance of 50cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5, close-up macro-style photography is possible. The lens highlights the subject, allowing photographers to focus in on fine details or create more abstract compositions.

The AF drive system incorporates a quiet, high-speed stepping motor, making it suitable for still images as well as video recording.

Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor

All I series lenses have an all-metal construction. The precision-cut aluminum parts not only give the barrel a sleek, stylish finish, but provide superb durability that improves the quality of the entire product. Metal materials are also used in internal structures that slide with the operation ring for added robustness. These high-precision components crafted with SIGMA's cutting-edge metalworking technology are also used in SIGMA's cine lens line-up for professional cinematographers and provide a tactile, ergonomic feel that make the lens a pleasure to use.

The 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary shares the same 64mm maximum diameter and 55mm filter size as the 24mm F3.5 DG DN | Contemporary and the 45mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary, making them a natural trio, especially for filmmakers who use filters more regularly. With a combined weight of only 735g / 25.9 oz.*, these three lenses (wide-angle, standard, mid-telephoto) can be used together as part of a high-spec and compact camera system that covers a wide range of shooting situations.

* Figures are for L-Mount.

Additional Features

• Lens construction: 11 elements in 10 groups, with 5 SLD and 1 aspherical lens elements
• Inner focus system
• Compatible with high-speed autofocus
• Stepping motor
• Compatible with lens aberration correction (Supported cameras only. Available corrections may vary depending on the camera model.)
• Supports DMF and AF+MF
• Super Multi-Layer Coating
• Aperture ring
• Focus mode switch
• Round-type lens hood (LH576-02)
• Magnetic metal lens cap (LCF55-01M)
• Mount with dust and splash resistant structure
• Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
• Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
• Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system
• 9-blade rounded diaphragm
• High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
• "Made in Japan" craftsmanship

Key Specifications:

Lens Construction: 10 groups, 11 elements (5 SLD, 1 aspherical lens)
Angle of View: 27.0°
Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture: F22
Minimum Focusing Distance: 19.7 in. / 50cm
Maximum Magnification: 1:5
Filter Size (mm): ?55mm
Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 2.52 x 2.35 in. / 64 x 59.7mm
Weight: 10.4 oz. / 295g
Available Mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-Mount
Supplied Accessories: FRONT CAP LCF III 55mm, LENS HOOD LH576-02, REAR CAP LCR II

All figures calculated by L-Mount.
Appearance, specifications, and other aspects of the product are subject to change for improvement without notice.

Orders

Order the Sigma 90mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens at B&H.

Sigma will announce new products on September 9th.

Watch that announcement here.

"Join us and discover our new products!"

JST 21:00 / CEST 14:00 / EDT 08:00

From B&H:

Turn any Light Stand with a 5/8" baby mounting stud into a platform for mounting ball head or pan-and-tilt tripod heads.

Add functionality to a light stand or combo stand by using the LS-BHA to attach a standard photo or video tripod head with a 3/8"-16 female mounting thread. By removing the locking knob, the adapter's receiver quickly converts into a 1-1/8" junior pin for compatibility with stands having junior receivers.

Get the Impact LS-BHA Baby Ball Head Adapter at B&H.

Learn about the new Manfrotto Element MII Video Monopods at B&H.

These video monopods appear to be a great addition to the high value Manfrotto Element lineup.

Just posted: Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens Review.

Both thumbs up. Impressive lens.

The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

From B&H:

Godox Launches New Ving V860III Flash

Godox is launching the new Ving V860III Flash, available for Canon, FUJIFILM, Nikon, and Sony TTL systems. The sleek new speedlight supports Godox’s X wireless radio system and has a guide number of 197' at ISO 100 and 200mm. The flash head covers lenses from 20mm to 200mm, has a fastest flash duration of 1/20,000 second, and runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack that offers 450 flashes per charge.

Product Highlights:

• Built-In X Wireless Radio System
• Recycling 1.5 sec Full Power
• Guide Number: 197' at ISO 100
• Battery Gives 450 Full-Power Flashes
• Flash Coverage: 20-200mm
• Wireless Master/Slave TTL Functionality

Price: $229.00

Order the Godox Ving V860III TTL Li-Ion Flash from B&H.

The Godox Ving V860III TTL Li-Ion Flash is also badged as the Flashpoint Zoom Li-on III R2 TTL Speedlight Flash Kit at Adorama.

In a development announcement for the XLR Microphone Adapter CA-XLR2d, Tascam reveals capabilities of the new accessory shoe featured on the Canon EOS R3 Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera and Canon XF605 4K UHD Professional Camcorder.

From Tascam:

Development of new Tascam XLR audio adapter in collaboration with Canon, Fujifilm and Nikon allows mirrorless cameras to capture professional audio

Teac Corporation is proud to announce the development of the Tascam CA-XLR2d professional XLR microphone adapter for mirrorless cameras. This product is targeted for worldwide release by the end of 2021.

Product Name – Product model
XLR Microphone Adapter CANON Kit CA-XLR2d – CA-XLR2d-C
XLR Microphone Adapter FUJIFILM Kit CA-XLR2d – CA-XLR2d-F
XLR Microphone Adapter CA-XLR2d-AN Analog Interface Kit – CA-XLR2d

The CA-XLR2d lineup is a collaboration between TEAC Corporation working independently with Canon Inc., Fujifilm Corporation and Nikon Corporation. The strategy is to combine the leading camera manufacturers know-how, and the high quality audio capturing technology from Tascam.

The video and movie streaming market has been quickly expanding, and it is widely known that audio quality is one of the essential elements to influence viewers engagement. Because of this, the number of video creators and producers who are exploring better audio quality as well as better image quality has been increasing. Since mirrorless cameras typically used for high-quality video shooting do not accommodate an XLR input for professional microphones or a high-quality preamplifier, there are very limited options to upgrade your audio quality within the capability of the camera itself. Currently, when you need high-quality XLR microphones to capture professional audio, a digital audio recorder is required to capture audio separately from the camera. However, extra time is needed to synchronize your audio and video manually when editing.

To solve this issue, the CA-XLR2d was designed as an XLR input expansion adapter for mirrorless cameras that enables filmmakers and videographers to capture high quality audio directly into cameras. The result is the audio from the XLR input is directly recorded into the camera along with the video. Filmmakers and videographers no longer need extra time to synchronize audio and movie when editing. What is more remarkable is with a digitized accessory shoe from Canon and hot shoe from Fujifilm, the built-in high-performance AD converter will enable filmmakers to transfer crystal clear digitized audio directly into cameras without any audio degradation.

CA-XLR2d is the perfect solution to meet the needs from professional users who demand the best audio quality to amateur users who are discovering a higher level of audio quality as part of video content.

Canon Kit “CA-XLR2d-C”

Thanks to co-design and evaluation of a digital hot shoe connection with Canon, compliant with their multi-function shoe, digital audio transmission directly into the camera and bus power supply from the camera is available for a cable-free system with high mobility. In addition, the CA-XLR2d is also planned to be compatible with the multi-function shoe of the Canon XF605 Professional Camcorder. This combination will provide a maximum of four XLR input channels in addition to the built-in two XLR channels on the camcorder.

Preliminary product compatibility include: Mirrorless camera [EOS R3], Professional Camcorder [XF605]

With the included 2 x AA battery box and cold shoe mount adapter, CA-XLR2d also works with existing cameras which don’t have the multi-function hot shoe by connecting an analog audio cable between CA-XLR2d’s analog out and camera’s mic-in.

CA-XLR2d-C with EOS R3

CA-XLR2d-C with XF605

Fujifilm Kit “CA-XLR2d-F”

Thanks to co-design and evaluation of a digital hot shoe connection with Fujifilm, compliant with Fujifilm’s digital hot shoe, digital audio transmission directly into the camera and bus power supply from the camera is available to build a cable-free system for high mobility.

Preliminary product compatibility include: Mirrorless digital cameras “FUJIFILM X-T4”, “FUJIFILM X-S10”

With the included 2 x AA battery box and cold shoe mount adapter, CA-XLR2d also works with existing cameras which don’t have the digital hot shoe by connecting an analog audio cable between CA-XLR2d’s analog out and camera’s mic-in.

CA-XLR2d-F with FUJIFILM X-T4

CA-XLR2d-F with FUJIFILM X-S10

Analog Interface Kit “CA-XLR2d-AN”

Thanks to the collaboration of creating an analog interface kit by Nikon, using the included 2 x AA battery box and cold shoe mount adapter works by connecting an analog audio cable between CA-XLR2d’s analog out and Camera’s mic in. CA-XLR2d will work as an analog audio adapter to deliver high-quality audio to a wider range of camera users.

Preliminary (initial) product compatibility include: [Nikon Z 7II], [Nikon Z 6II], [Nikon Z 7], [Nikon Z 6], [Nikon Z 5], [Nikon Z fc], [Nikon Z 50]

CA-XLR2d-AN with Nikon Z 7II

CA-XLR2d-AN with Nikon Z 6II

Key Features

• Microphone adapter to add a professional audio XLR input to mirrorless cameras
• Direct digital audio transmission via a digitized accessory shoe with built-in AD converter (only compatible for products from Canon and Fujifilm)
• Power is supplied by the camera using the data transmission shoe (only compatible with products from Canon and Fujifilm)
• Build-in high-performance Tascam HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic-preamplifier achieves high quality audio, low noise, wide dynamic range (Mic/Line level switchable, +48V phantom power supply)
• Two modes on analog output
• Camera mode for audio transfer to camera’s mic-in
• Headphone mode for direct monitoring with headphones

B&H carries Tascam products.

Tamron has released 2nd Quarter FY2021 Financial Results showing an over 30% increase in net sales and an upward-revised FY2021 forecast.

See the new DJI Mini SE at B&H. This little drone is in stock and low priced – only $299.00.

Ironically, the day after sharing the first Canon vs. Sony IBIS Comparison Test, Sony released Alpha 1 firmware update version 1.10. While IBIS was not called out in the list of updated features, discussions hinted that an IBIS performance update was possibly included in the "Other improvements in operational stability" line item. Sony would not divulge the answer to that question. That possibility left a little doubt in my mind, and ... I don't like doubt more than I don't like testing image stabilization.

Round 2. The procedures for the second comparison test were the same as for the first, and the text for this test will remain mostly identical to that of the initial test.

When shooting handheld, image stabilization performance can be a significant image quality factor. Sony has incorporated In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) in their cameras for many years — the a7 II and a7R II had this feature. Canon's first IBIS implementations arrived last summer in the Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6.

Especially given Sony's long head start with this technology, I wanted to know: Is Sony's IBIS better than Canon's? Or is Canon's IBIS better? It was also possible that the two systems would perform equally, and that piece of information would also be helpful to know. It was time to create a comparison featuring the latest high-end models from each company, the Canon EOS R5 vs. Sony Alpha 1.

CIPA's image stabilization ratings attempt to provide an objective measure of a camera's stabilization assistance capabilities. However, CIPA is considerably steadier than I am. There are no objective image stabilization tests that measure a camera's stabilization assistance specifically for me — or for you, and it is only a camera's stabilization assistance performance for the person holding the camera that matters. Even our personal stabilization needs are situational, with wind, physical exertion, footing stability, and other factors influencing our ability to hold a camera steady.

While I had opinions on the overall image stabilization performance of various Canon and Sony camera and lens combinations, explicitly testing the difference between the Canon and Sony camera IBIS had been interesting me. With identical Canon and Sony non-stabilized lenses in the lab at the same time, this comparison hit the top of my to-do list, becoming the priority.

While completely objective testing was not possible, it seemed that subjective testing could be dialed in to have meaning.

This IBIS testing was performed in the studio, with ideal handheld testing conditions, including solid (concrete) footing and no wind. During testing, elbows were not resting on the body, and the viewfinder was in use (vs. the rear LCD).

The Canon EOS R5 with an RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens was tested against a Sony Alpha 1 with an FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens. The cameras were set to single-shot mode, with the electronic first curtain shutter selected in Tv mode. A detailed test target (exceeding camera resolution) was positioned at eye level about 10' (3.3m) away, with the distance marked for consistency.

Starting at 1/25 second exposures (roughly 2 stops of stabilization assistance expected for me), 10 images were captured with each camera. The shutter duration on both cameras was then increased by 1/3 stop, and the testing was repeated, alternating cameras until 1-second exposures were on the cards. That procedure amounted to 150 pictures taken with each camera (10 shots x 15 shutter speeds), 300 pictures total.

The measure of sharpness is not boolean, true or false, meaning an arbitrary determination of pass or fail was required, and adding an intermediary grade seemed a good idea. In addition, everyone loves a score, a firm number that can quickly be compared and quoted.

If the image was unsalvageable, it went into the "Delete" category. If an image is blurry, it was a waste of time to capture, load, and process. Worse is that I may have counted on the image being sharp, meaning that the desired image was lost. The blurry image also consumed space on the memory card and later on the computer's SSD. Thus, in the "Score" column, five points are deducted for each image falling in this category.

If the image was salvageable via increasing the sharpness or down-sizing the image, it went into the "Useable" category. No points were given for these images. While they will often get the job done, these results were mediocre.

Crisply sharp images are what we want. Test images making the "Sharp" grade were awarded 5 points.

Most images were not hard to place in one of these three categories. The "benefit of the doubt" rule was implemented for those hard to grade, and the higher grade was given.

Here is the resulting Canon vs. Sony IBIS comparison table:

The testing was so much fun that I decided to do it again. OK, the fun part was missing, but meaningful test results should be repeatable, right? While I made a significant effort to capture every test shot to the best of my current abilities, I had enough doubt in my mind to leave me unsatisfied. Testing for consistency seemed necessary.

Thus, after thoroughly evaluating the first set of results, the same test was repeated — another 300 images were captured. The results are as follows:

While these numbers are as meaningful as the first table, it was the consistency with the first test results that most interested me. The following table shows the deviation between the two tests. The second result was subtracted from the first result, with 0 or close to 0 indicating similar performance.

To account for any testing anomalies, after compiling the second test results, the four exposure durations with the most deviation (none were significantly differing) for each camera were tested a third time (80 additional test shots). The worst of the three results for each camera was thrown out, leaving the results shown in the above tables.

I am very impressed at how consistent the results for the two tests are. The similarity adds credence to the test results.

Here is a summary table showing the combined first and second test results, along with the final scoring.

So, we just got highly analytical with 680 subjective test results. Still, there seems to be some meaning here.

The sharp column from this table is illustrated in the graph included at the top of this post. From these results, it is arguable that the IBIS technology in the Canon EOS R5 is superior to that in the Sony Alpha 1 (for me, on this day, in this location, with the referenced lenses mounted). For example, follow the "10" line in the chart to see the shutter speed I required for a 50% sharp image rate.

Mostly, I experience a 1/3 - 2/3 stop advantage with the Canon camera. That difference is not dramatic, and the bottom line is that IBIS is valuable in both camera brands. This feature adds substantially to the versatility of non-stabilized lenses, such as the 50mm f/1.2 models tested here. IBIS is one more reason to love the latest mirrorless camera models.

From Skylum:

Luminar AI Update 4 — Beautiful Bokeh In Seconds

With the fourth update to Luminar AI, Skylum introduces Portrait Bokeh AI, a powerful new tool for the portrait photographer’s toolbox.

NEW YORK, NY - July 27, 2021 — Today, Skylum released LuminarAIUpdate 4, which delivers the much-anticipated Portrait BokehAI along with other, useful, free features to help visual storytellers unlock their creativity.

Complete control of focus with Portrait BokehAI

Building on our AI-guided depth mapping tools, Portrait BokehAI isolates the subject of a portrait from the background. It recognizes people in groups or in unusual positions or poses. With subjects isolated from the background, Portrait BokehAI blurs the background to emulate the rich, hazy bokeh of a high end lens at a wide open aperture.

Intelligent mask creation. Thanks to amazing artificial intelligence, LuminarAI can recognize people in a photo and can create the perfect mask to separate subjects from the background. The mask is generated automatically, but the artist can still refine and customize the mask to add or subtract focus to a photo.

Creative control. While the bokeh is automatically generated, it is entirely controlled by the artist with a single slider.

Any lighting; any lens: Traditionally, creamy bokeh could require expensive cameras and lenses coupled with complex lighting. No more. Bokeh PortraitAI works on any portrait.

Refined backgrounds. In addition to adjustable bokeh, artists can further refine the background using sliders to adjust the background exposure, add glow to highlights, set a specific depth of field and refine edges.

Stunning subjects. With the background made perfect, artists can use our AI-powered Portrait Tools — FaceAI, SkinAI and BodyAI — to really make subjects stand out in the frame.

Audition Textures with visual preview

We’ve improved Textures to help artists see how they might be used to achieve their creative vision. To understand how a Texture might fit your work in progress, you can now visually browse Textures just as you do with our SkyAI and Augmented SkyAI tools. Using custom Textures? They are now also accessible right within the dropdown grid. Artists can also load their own textures for reuse to build up a library of their favorites.

Visual Horizon Control in SkyAI

We pride ourselves on making complex things simple for our artist community. With that in mind, we’ve reimagined how replacement skies are aligned to the horizon in SkyAI. The Vertical Position, Horizontal Position, and Horizon Blending sliders have been replaced with the Shifting Horizon Control, found in the Sky Orientation section. This single control allows the artist to better position a replacement sky in the frame to align it with the horizon and create a much more seamless and naturalistic final image.

Availability

LuminarAI Update 4 is a free update for current LuminarAI users. To update:

macOS: Open LuminarAI. In the Top Menu Bar, choose LuminarAI > Check for updates. If you purchased via the Mac App Store, open the App Store and go to the Updates tab.

Windows: Open LuminarAI. In the Top Menu Bar, choose LuminarAI > Help > Check for Updates.

If you are running LuminarAI as a plugin with Photoshop, Lightroom Classic or Photoshop Elements, it’s also recommended you rerun the plugin installer. Click here for more information.

The LuminarAI user manual has also been expanded to make it easier than ever for users to search and find answers to questions they might have about LuminarAI.

To purchase LuminarAI, visit https://skylum.com/luminar-ai.

Don't forget to use our coupon code THEDIGITALPICTURE to (usually) get a $10.00 discount.