Canon and Sony News and What's New (Excluding Deals) (Page 3)

The new Really Right Stuff L-Bracket and Base Plate for the Canon EOS R1 are in stock at B&H.

Canon EOS C500 Mark II firmware update version 1.1.5.1 is available for download.

Firmware Version 1.1.5.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixes an issue in which markers, AF frame, focus position guide, and tally OSD do not display correctly when the main recording format is set to [XF-AVC] under certain conditions.

Get the Canon EOS C500 Mark II at B&H (save $5,000.00 and another $1,000.00 on used at firmware release time).

From Sony Electronics:

Sony Electronics Launches GP-VPT3 Multi-Function Shooting Grip and the RMT-VP2 Wireless Remote Commander

The Three-in-One Wireless Shooting Grip with Detachable Remote Commander Enhances Usability and Convenience for Greater Freedom in Capturing Videos and Still Images

SAN DIEGO, May 21, 2025 - Sony Electronics Inc. introduces the Wireless Shooting Grip/Tripod (GP-VPT3) and the Wireless Remote Commander (RMT-VP2) featuring Bluetooth® wireless technology compatible with Alpha™ Series and Vlog Camera Series. The GP-VPT3 Multi-Function Shooting Grip supports stable handheld shooting with a grip design optimized for ease of use and flexible shooting angles, accommodating cameras weighing up to 1.5 kgⁱⁱ. The grip can be used as a tripod and the remote commander can be detached and used as a remote control. ?

The ergonomically designed grip allows handheld shooting while performing key camera operations, such as zoom and focus, with one hand, regardless of dominant hand, for both still images and videos. The head mechanism allows for one-touch switching between self-portrait and outward shooting, and the tilt mechanism enables free angle adjustment.

The detachable remote commander is equipped with a MOVIE button, Zoom/Focus button, and C1 (Custom) button, allowing one-handed operation. This allows shutter operation from a distance so the photographer can be included in group photos and reduces camera shake in low-light conditions. The remote commander connects to select Sony cameras and Xperia™ smartphones with a wireless communication range of approximately 10 mⁱⁱⁱ. The grip and remote commander connect to the main unit without cables or receivers, maintaining dust and moisture proof performance during camera connection.^iv

The GP-VPT3 Multi-Function shooting grip is available in black and white options.^v The RMT-VP2 Wireless Remote Commander is also available for purchase separately.

Pricing and Availability

The GP-VPT3 Multi-Function shooting grip will be available in June 2025 for approximately $159.99 USD and $219.99 CAD and the RMT-VP2 Wireless Remote Commander for approximately $89.99 USD and $124.99 CAD.

It will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

Orders

For detailed product information please visit:

GP-VPT3 Multi-Function Shooting Grip (Black): Sony | B&H

GP-VPT3 Multi-Function Shooting Grip (White): Sony | B&H

RMT-VP2 Wireless Remote Commander: Sony | B&H

Notes

ⁱ For compatible cameras, please visit: https://www.sony.net/dics/gpvpt3/ ? Interoperability and compatibility among Bluetooth® devices vary.

ⁱⁱ Lenses that can be attached to interchangeable lens cameras are limited to those with a total mass of 1.5 kg or less, including the camera body. Please note that even within the load capacity, the camera may fall over when using a tripod, depending on the lens used and the usage environment.

ⁱⁱⁱ Based on Sony's measurement environment. Actual performance may vary depending on surrounding conditions such as the presence of obstacles (metal, human bodies, etc.) or reflective surfaces, and radio wave conditions.

^iv This device is designed to be dust and drip-resistant, but it does not completely prevent the ingress of dust or water droplets.

^v The RMT-VP2 Wireless Remote Commander is available only in black.

Sony Alpha 7 IV firmware update version 5.01 is available for download (read info first, then use link to the latest release).

Firmware Version 5.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. The Security (IPsec) functionality is no longer supported. Please enable and use Access Authen. as it provides more secure protection
2. WPA and WEP functionalities are no longer supported. You will no longer be able to select WPA or WEP when connecting to Wi-Fi. Please use the more secure WPA2 or WPA3 moving forward
3. Improves the operational stability of the camera

Get the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H.

Sony ZV-E1 firmware update version 2.01 is available for download.

Firmware Version 2.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. WPA and WEP functionalities are no longer supported. You will no longer be able to select WPA or WEP when connecting to Wi-Fi. Please use the more secure WPA2 or WPA3 moving forward
2. Improves the operational stability of the camera

Get the Sony ZV-E1 at B&H.

Learn more about the new Walker Pro Rolling Backpack at Think Tank Photo.

Don't forget that you'll get a free gift and free shipping when using this site's links for your purchase at Think Tank Photo ($50.00 minimum purchase required).

Just posted: Canon RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ Lens Review

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Support this site by ordering the Canon RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada

Just posted:

SCG T8 G2 Fluid Head Review
SCG StediFast HD Carbon Fiber Tripod Review

The T8 G2 and StediFast HD are an outstanding value, performing far above their cost.

The SCG T8 G2 Fluid Head is coming soon to B&H and available for order now at SCG.

Order the SCG StediFast HD Carbon Fiber Tripod from B&H.

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Just posted: Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens Review.

Outstanding lens. I hope to add sample pictures later.

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Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from Lensrentals.

Sony's full year 2024 financial results are available on the Investor Relations page.

Presentation
(track ET&S for the Entertainment, Technology & Services Segment, which includes cameras, and I&SS for the Imaging and Sensing Solutions segment)

Financial Statements
Supplementary Information
Webcast

"We are responding quickly to the additional U.S. tariffs that have already been implemented and are considering responses to multiple possible future scenarios. We currently expect to be able to manage the impact on the profitability to approximately 100 billion yen, or less than 10% of the operating income forecast."

"Decrease in sales of televisions and smartphones due to a decrease in unit sales"

"In Q4FY24, the interchangeable lens camera market grew by approximately 9% year-on-year on a unit basis."

Check out the new DJI Mavic 4 Pro Drone at B&H.

Image quality test results from a second lens are now available on the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page.

The first lens's performance was superb, but was it an outlier? With two lenses in the studio, an increased sample size was afforded.

The second lens vs. first lens comparison answers that question.

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Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from Lensrentals.

Image quality and vignetting test results are now available on the Canon RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ Lens page.

This inexpensive lens performs well for its cost. Here is a comparison to a high-end reference lens, RF 85mm F1.2 L USM, at an optimal aperture.

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Support this site by ordering the Canon RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada

Noise, image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results are now available on the Canon PowerShot V1 page.

This little camera performs well.

Resolution compared to the R50 with a high-end lens.

Noise compared to the R100.

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Support this site by ordering the Canon PowerShot V1 from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada

Image quality test results are now available on the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page.

These results are great.

Compared to the Canon RF 24mm F1.4 L VCM Lens

Compared to the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens

Compared to the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Lens

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Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from Lensrentals.

It seems a wise idea for those of us in the USA to buy any gear on our want list now, because price increases on imported gear are coming soon.

As shared with the First Quarter 2025 Financial Results, Canon indicated that they would "Respond to cost increase from additional tariffs by raising prices"

Today, Sigma America's President, Mark Amir-Hamzeh, shared a similar message:

Dear customer,

Thank you for your continued support and trust in Sigma. We are writing to inform you of an upcoming pricing adjustment to our products, effective June 2, 2025.

Due to the recent implementation of government-imposed tariffs, our costs have increased substantially. We have made every effort to absorb these added expenses, but the sustained impact of the tariffs now necessitates a price increase to ensure we can continue delivering the quality and service you expect.

Key details:

• Current pricing will remain in effect for all orders placed through June 1st, 2025, subject to product availability.
• New pricing will take effect on June 2, 2025, and will apply to all new orders and any unfulfilled items.

We understand this is difficult news to hear, and please know this decision was not made lightly. We have always prided ourselves on delivering unmatched value to our customers, and we are doing everything we can to continue to do that while providing the same service and product excellence.

We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued partnership.
 

As always, I am grateful for your support, especially via purchases made using the sites links, including at B&H.

Just posted: Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS Contemporary Lens Review

As I said before, this lens is all about convenience.

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Support this site by ordering the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS Contemporary Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX | Camera Canada

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The entry-level Canon RF 75-300mm F4-5.6 Lens was announced in Europe and Japan, with the USA announcement TBD.

Learn more: Canon RF 75-300mm F4-5.6 Lens

From Canon UK:

Bring life even closer with the new RF 75-300mm F4-5.6 telephoto zoom lens

London, UK, 29 April 2025 – Today, Canon announces the RF 75-300mm F4-5.6, a lightweight, easy-to-use telephoto zoom lens that’s ideal for users starting out in nature and sports photography with an EOS R System camera.

With its amazing reach and flexible zoom range, the RF 75-300mm F4-5.6 provides creative freedom when shooting photos and video of subjects you can’t physically get close to. Users can keep their distance to avoid disturbing wild animals and birds or zoom right into the action when photographing a sports event from the sidelines. The streamlined design lets users react quickly, with a large zoom ring requiring little more than a quarter of a turn to run through the entire zoom range.

At 300mm it’s possible to get as close as 1.5m to fill the frame with detail, making this lens a practical solution for portraits of animals and people. The long zoom and wide, seven-blade aperture ensure superb separation between a sharp subject and blurred background for a refined look.

This classic entry-level, full-frame 75-300mm lens can be used on any camera equipped with Canon’s advanced RF mount. Paired with an APS-C body such as the EOS R100, it delivers a more powerful 120-480mm effective reach to bring distant subjects even closer. Despite its extensive telephoto coverage, the lens weighs just 507g and is a compact 146.1mm in length when retracted. It’s one of the lightest lenses in its class and ready to go anywhere, from local sport matches to remote nature reserves.

The versatile range of focal lengths, affordable pricing and outstanding portability of the RF 75-300mm F4-5.6 ensure that everyone is able to extend their reach and take their passion further.

Key features of the RF 75-300mm F4-5.6:

• Flexible 75-300mm focal length range for full-frame EOS R System cameras, extending to 120-480mm equivalent view on APS-C models
• 1.5 metre minimum focusing distance at 300mm for frame-filling detail
• Compact and lightweight design: Measures just 146.1mm in length when stored and weighs approximately 507g
• 7-blade circular aperture for beautiful background blur
• Super Spectra coating to reduce ghosting and flare

Support the site by ordering this lens from WEX.

Just posted: Sigma 300-600mm F4 DG OS Sports Lens Review.

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Support this site by ordering the Sigma 300-600mm F4 DG OS Sports Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Sigma 300-600mm F4 DG OS Sports Lens from Lensrentals.