Canon and Sony News for Sep 2015 (Page 3)

From Pinnacle Imaging Systems:

Belmont, CA – September 16, 2015 – Today, Pinnacle Imaging Systems(TM), developer of the next generation of still and motion imaging technology, announced that it has acquired the intellectual property, products and trademarks developed by Unified Color Technologies(TM) with plans to expand beyond consumer-focused HDR software solutions to offer its technology as embedded HDR solutions for digital still and video camera designs. Pinnacle Imaging Systems will also continue to support and develop its award-winning still-image HDR applications, HDR Express(TM), HDR Expose(TM) and its Photoshop plug-in 32 Float under the Pinnacle Imaging Systems brand.

“This is an exciting time for our team as we are expanding our core color technology IP, which has long driven our consumer software applications, to now address video and embedded hardware designs,” said Alfred Zee, President & CEO of Pinnacle Imaging Systems. “With our technology embedded in next generation still and video cameras, system designers requiring improved video quality will be able to deliver the most accurate color and tonal rendition possible for real-time HDR capture.”

Enabling Color-Safe Real-Time HDR Video Capture

Throughout the history of digital imaging, photographers and filmmakers have been bound by the inherent contrast or dynamic range limitations of their capture devices, none of which were actually capable of rendering the contrast ranges that are visible to the human eye. It’s this uniquely human capability that continues to drive the demand for high definition, high dynamic range imaging and video, and Pinnacle Imaging Systems’ proprietary Beyond RGB(TM) color technology provides the most true to life results for those looking to maintain exacting color rendition consistent with that seen by the human eye.

By licensing its color technology to hardware developers, Pinnacle Imaging Systems will enable the next generation of video cameras to shoot real-time high dynamic range video that is completely safe from disorienting color shifts during video processing. For developers looking to deploy real-time, color-accurate high dynamic range video capture, Beyond RGB is the only color technology available today that can ensure color rendition as perceived by the human eye.

“HDR video capture is the new frontier for improving video quality and data capture for recognition. Currently, demand for HDR video is being driven from the top-down with digital content creators looking for HDR capabilities to be embedded into cameras and production equipment, and consumers seeking HDR-capable smart TV’s and set top boxes. Eventually that demand will trickle down into consumer mobile devices over the next three to five years,” said Ron Tussy, Principal Analyst, The Imerge Group. “Embedded HDR tone mapping will not only improve the quality of video, but is also a critical underlying technology necessary to improve data for applications such as depth mapping and recognition in automotive ADAS as well as security/surveillance applications. Pinnacle Imaging Systems, with their proprietary IP, is the only provider of embedded HDR video that keeps all the color data intact and does so without a color shift.”

From Canon:

Details:
Firmware Version 1.4.0 incorporates the following improvements and fixes:

• Fixes a phenomenon which occurs when the “Shutter button half-press” menu item, configured in “C.Fn5: Operation”>”Custom Controls Menu”, is set to metering start only; depending on when the shutter button is half-pressed, it may initiate AutoFocus.
• Firmware Version 1.4.0 includes all improvements and fixes provided in previous firmware versions.

Notes:
As a result of this fix, cameras with Firmware Version 1.3.9 (or later) will not be able to read the “camera settings file” created with cameras running Firmware Version 1.3.5 (or earlier). If you require the “camera settings file”, please create it after updating to firmware version 1.3.9 (or later).

Support:
Canon USA will perform this firmware update on the EOS-1D C Cinema EOS Camera free of charge. Shipping and handling charges may apply. Please contact the Canon Customer Support Center for details.

This information is for residents of the United States and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.

Please register the EOS-1D C. By registering, we will be able to notify you via email when future firmware updates become available for download. If you already registered, please ensure you are opted-in to receive the notification.

B&H carries the Canon EOS-1D C Cinema Camera.

From Canon USA:

Company Launches First-Ever EXPO Virtual Tour to Provide an Insider's Look into the Future of Imaging Technology

MELVILLE, N.Y., September 17, 2015 - Although Canon EXPO 2015 New York may be over, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced that it will extend the excitement to those unable to attend, via the first-ever virtual tour on the Canon EXPO Website. This site will provide rich online content that recaps being at the company's five years in the making EXPO, recently held September 10-11 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Revealing Canon's vision into the future of imaging technology, Canon EXPO 2015 New York featured more than 100,000 square feet of exhibition space, showcasing a combination of current and future Canon products and highlighted how powerful and innovative imaging technologies enhance homes, universities, businesses, hospitals, stadiums, movie sets and more.

Andy Slawetsky, with Industry Analysts, said of his first-hand experience at EXPO, "Canon is one of the largest annual patent recipients in the world and attending a show like this is just awesome. Technology everywhere. While I really only focus on a small part of Canon's portfolio, it's a treat to see everything they do under one roof."

Visit the Canon EXPO website for a virtual tour including:

• The Stadium Zone, an impressive recreation of Yankee Stadium, where visitors can find information on the cameras and lenses professionals choose to capture the action and bring memorable events to life.
• The Imaging Journey Zone highlights the evolution of imaging including a 4K projector capable of 8K projection, under development, as well as museum quality printing technology.
• The Professional Printing Zone provides visitors with information on a range of large format printers including the Oc‚ Arizona Series flatbed printers, the Oc‚ varioPRINT i300, and the award-winning Canon imagePRESS C10000VP Digital Press, which sets a new quality benchmark in its class by delivering robust productivity of up-to-100 images per minute.
• The Home Zone allows visitors to experience modern home imaging solutions for the always-connected generation.
• The Enterprise Zone shows how Canon supports businesses worldwide and spotlights Canon's new Rich Collaboration System, an innovative communication platform under development, allowing businesses to connect virtually to enhance communication.
• The Film Production Zone highlights new ways to help professional storytellers bring their visions to life. Cinematographers, videographers, photographers, production companies, broadcasters and networks can benefit from Canon innovations designed to achieve greater levels of depth, detail and dimension.
• The Customer Experience Zone provides access to information on Canon's Live Learning programs, professional imaging services as well as its commitment to top-notch customer service.
• The University Zone demonstrates ultra-high zooming capabilities when utilizing a 250 megapixel CMOS sensor as well as optical technology behind the Subaru Telescope.
• The Advanced Industry Solutions Zone features a glimpse into Canon's MREAL Solution demonstrations.

Canon EXPO will visit Paris and Tokyo later in 2015 and Shanghai in 2016.

For more information visit: Expo2015NY.com/virtualtour

From Nikon USA:

Nikon Ambassador and naturalist Ron Magill shares his advice on macro photography from Zoo Miami.

B&H carries the Nikon D750, AF-S Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED VR & R1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System.

Image quality results from the EOS 5Ds R and 1Ds III along with flare, distortion and vignetting test results, MTF measurements and specs/measurements are now available on the Tokina 24-70mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro FX Lens page.

If you have used Tokina's other zoom lenses featuring the push/pull AF/MF switching mechanism, this lens will feel familiar in your hands.

B&H has the Tokina 24-70mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro FX Lens in Nikon mount in stock with the Canon mount available for order.

From the David Bergman Vimeo Channel:

I'm so happy to finally show off one of my proudest projects to date. I shot 825 Canon 5DsR images (50 megapixels each) at Yankee Stadium a few months ago and stitched them together to create a 20,000 megapixel photo. It might be the largest resolution image ever made at a live event (as opposed to a static landscape shot). A 130-foot long, 20-foot high print was on display at the Canon Expo in NYC. You can even read the prices at the hot dog stand over 400 feet away.

B&H carries the Canon 5Ds R DSLR camera (review).

Image quality results from the EOS 5Ds R have been added to the Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM Lens Review.

The 40mm STM is one of the best value lenses ever introduced by Canon and holds the #1 position on my Best Canon Bargain Lens list.

B&H has the Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM Lens in stock with a $50 instant rebate available.

The 2015-2016 Schedule Includes New Portrait & Lighting Workshop and Other Popular Courses, Offers Educational Opportunities for Those Who Want to Take Their Photos to the Next Level

MELVILLE, NY (September 15, 2015) - Today, Nikon Inc. has announced the 2015-2016 Nikon School class schedule, featuring exciting interactive programs for every level of photographer. This year, Nikon School is returning to some of the top cities nationwide to help educate and inspire photo enthusiasts to embrace their passions and tell their stories visually.

Nikon School will host more than 50 classes from October 2015 to June 2016 in 13 locations across the country, and kicks off in Boston on October 17 with the DSLR Video 2-Day Workshop. The classes, offered in full or half-day sessions, cover a wide range of photography disciplines for photographers of all levels. Classes range from instruction on the basic elements of photography to intricacies of lighting, improving portraits or getting the most out of DSLR video. The programs are taught by industry experts, including Reed Hoffmann, Carey Wagner, Michael Schwarz, Nick Didlick, Bob Pearson and Nikon Ambassador Tamara Lackey.

“The classes offered by Nikon School are uniquely designed to teach new skills and offer creative direction as well as engage participants to challenge themselves,” said Mark Suban, Senior Manager, Nikon Professional Services at Nikon Inc. “The Nikon School courses will provide advice and insights to help those that want to share their passions and interests through photography and better tell their stories visually.”

A new addition to this year’s schedule is the Portrait & Lighting Workshop, a one-day course that combines classroom instruction with hands-on shooting. This advanced workshop will help photographers learn the importance of light and how to modify it to create a great image. Nikon School will also offer popular classes like Basics of Exposure and Camera Controls, a course for those either new to the world of photography or ready to step up from a point-and-shoot camera or smartphone device. This class will teach beginners how to properly frame a shot and use the various menus and controls at their disposal. On the other end of the spectrum, for more advanced photographers looking to explore the world of videography, the 2-Day DSLR Video Workshop will provide guidance for real-world shooting techniques. This class will include lighting tips, selecting proper equipment and the best ways to incorporate audio.

To get more information on Nikon School or access the most updated schedule, please visit:
http://www.nikonusa.com/en/Learn-And-Explore/Nikon-School/index.page

Firmware Version 2.0.8 incorporates the following functional improvements and fixes:

• Fixes a phenomenon which occurs when the “Shutter button half-press” menu item, configured in “C.Fn5: Operation”>”Custom Controls Menu”, is set to metering start only; depending on when the shutter button is half-pressed, it may initiate AutoFocus.

Firmware Version 2.0.8 is for cameras with Firmware Version 2.0.7 or earlier. If your camera's firmware is already Version 2.0.8, it is not necessary to update the firmware. The firmware update takes approximately seven minutes.

Notes:

• Once the EOS-1D X camera is updated to Version 2.0.7, it cannot be restored to a previous firmware version (Versions 1.0.2 through 2.0.3).
• Once the EOS-1D X camera is updated to firmware Version 2.0.7 from previous firmware version (Versions 1.0.2 through 1.2.4 and 2.0.3), it is recommended that the latest application software*1 be used. Certain previous versions of this application software do not support functions which are added by the new firmware. You can download the latest application software from our Web site.
• The instruction manual has been revised to accommodate the improvements and fixes provided as of firmware Version 2.0.3 or later.
• Please download the most recent firmware and instruction manual from our website.
• As a result of this fix, cameras with Firmware Version 2.0.7 (or later) will not be able to read the “camera settings file” created with cameras running Firmware Version 2.0.3 (or earlier). If you require the “camera settings file”, please create it after updating to firmware version 2.0.7 (or later).

*1: EOS Utility version 2.14.10a or later (Supported OSes: Windows 8/ 7 / 7 SP1/ VistaSP2 / XP SP3, Mac OS X v10.9 / 10.8 / 10.7 / 10.6)
*1: Digital Photo Professional version 3.14.46 or later (Supported OSes: Windows 8/ 7 / 7 SP1 / Vista SP2 / XP SP3, Mac OS X v10.6 / 10.7/ 10.8/ 10.9)

Support

Download Firmware Version 2.0.8 for the EOS-1D X.

If you have not already done so, please register your Canon EOS-1D X. By registering, we will be able to notify you via email when service updates are available.

This information is for residents of the United States and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.

Thank you,
Customer Support Operations
Canon U.S.A., Inc

MindShift Gear’s New BackLight 26L Photo Daypack Provides Rapid Access to Outdoor Photography Gear

SANTA ROSA, CALIF – With the October release of the BackLight 26L photo daypack, MindShift Gear continues its commitment to providing outdoor photographers with rapid access to gear. The BackLight’s back panel opening allows quick gear access, especially when taking the pack off is not an option. The zippered rear opening reduces the amount of dust, mud, ice or other elements coming in contact with gear or the pack while keeping the shoulder harness clean.

The BackLight 26L has nine liters of daypack capacity providing plenty of space for personal gear, including separate dedicated compartments for a 10” tablet and 15” laptop. It comes in two colors, Charcoal and Greenfield.

“The BackLight was designed to address the needs of traveling outdoor photographers,” said Doug Murdoch, MindShift Gear’s CEO and Lead Designer. “It holds a standard-size DSLR and four to six standard zoom lenses plus a flash, or two large mirrorless cameras and five to seven lenses plus a flash.”

Features and Benefits

• Daisy chain, ice axe loops and additional lash points for expanding your carry capacity
• Includes tripod/monopod mounting system on front or side
• Padded waist belt for all day comfort on the trail with webbing rail for attachment of additional MindShift accessories
• Quick fit waist belt adjustment for rapid and convenient fitting
• Adjustable neck strap keeps the back panel against your chest providing unencumbered access to your gear
• Integrated insert with customizable dividers allows you to maximize the space for photo gear, personal gear, or a combination of the two
• 2 large water bottle pockets with cinch cord fit a 32 oz. Nalgene
• Side compression straps with locking SR buckles for additional lash points
• Air channel and lumbar support on rear-panel for all-day comfort
• Ergonomic zipper pulls are easily gripped with gloves or chilled fingers
• Highest quality YKK RC Fuse zippers, 420D Velocity and 420D high-density nylon for long lasting durability and strength
• Front stuff pockets for trail essentials: headlamp, gloves, and chargers
• Top zippered pocket for quick access to essentials
• Interior mesh pockets for storing filters, batteries, cables, etc.
• Seam-sealed rain cover included, folds flat for use as a ground cover
• Compatible with MindShift’s Tripod Suspension Kit, Filter Nest, Filter Hive and Switch Case

Materials
Exterior: For superior water resistance, all exterior fabric has a durable water-repellant coating, plus the underside of the fabric has a polyurethane coating. Features the highest-quality abrasion-resistant YKK RC-Fuse zippers, 420D velocity nylon, 420D high-density nylon, 320G UltraStretch mesh, 350G airmesh, nylon webbing, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Interior: 210D silver-toned nylon lining, hexa-mesh pockets, high-density closed-cell foam, PE board reinforcement, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Specifications
Exterior Dimensions: 11.4” W x 20.3” H x 7.9” D (29 x 51.5 x 20 cm)
Interior Camera Compartment: 10.2” W x 19.3” H x 5.9” D (26 x 49 x 15 cm)
Laptop Pocket: 10” W x 15.3” H x 1”D (25.5 x 38.8 x 2.5 cm)
Tablet Pocket: 9.3” W x 10.2” H x 0.6” D (23.5 x 26 x 1.5 cm)
Total Volume: 26L
Weight: 3.9 lbs (1.8 kg)

The MindShift Gear BackLight 26L is scheduled to be available in October.

From the Sports Shooter Academy Vimeo Channel:

Matt Brown, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim director of photography and Sports Shooter Academy co-founder, gives a behind-the-scenes peek at his remote camera setups for covering baseball.

B&H carries Pocketwizard radios.

From Epson:

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Sept. 15, 2015 – Epson America, Inc. today introduced its next generation of ultra-slim, ultra-powerful Expression Small-in-One wireless photo printers. Designed to suit the needs of busy households and creative enthusiasts, the Expression Premium series including the Expression Premium XP-530, XP-630 and XP-830, leverages a Claria Premium five-ink system to deliver superior quality, borderless prints up to 8” x10” and documents with sharp text. The Expression Photo XP-960 Small-in-One printer features six-color Claria Photo HD inks to deliver photo enthusiasts with vivid, professional-quality borderless photos up to 11” x17”.

The Expression Small-in-Ones offer auto two-sided printing to save paper as well as easy to use creative tools for printing lab-quality photos. Designed as complete wireless solutions, the printers feature built-in Wi-Fi CERTIFIED n1 and Wi-Fi Direct for network-free printing, as well as a variety of solutions to easily print from iPhone, iPad, Android, smartphones and tablets2 while at home or on the go. Plus, enjoy PC-free printing3 with built-in memory card slots and USB ports. Each feature-rich Small-in-One also allows users to edit, scan and share photos directly to Facebook or the cloud4. All models are compatible with the Epson Creative Print app to easily print Facebook photos and create custom cards, coloring books, stationary and more.

“We understand that families typically lead hectic, on-the-go lifestyles, and as such require a versatile printing solution – one that is affordable, but packs a punch in terms of features and performance,” said Monika Dees, senior product marketing manager, Consumer Ink Jets, Epson America, Inc. “The latest Expression printers make it easy for busy families and photo enthusiasts to stay connected, creative and productive.”

The Expression Photo and Premium Small-in-Ones offer superior photo quality with a versatile set of features to meet a range of creative printing needs:

• Expression Photo XP-960 Small-in-One – The newest addition to the Expression Photo family features the Claria Photo HD ink system and a larger 4.3-inch LCD screen to print stunning, professional quality photos up to 11”x17”, with borderless 4”x6” photo printing in as fast as 11 seconds5. The XP-960 comes equipped with an innovative fold-over scan lid that allows documents and photos to stay in place for high quality scans and a rear paper feed for specialty paper such as card stock, envelopes, labels and more.
• Expression Premium XP-830 Small-in-One – The feature-rich XP-830 delivers superior photo quality and versatility with a 30-page Auto Document Feeder and auto 2-sided printing, copying, scanning, and faxing to save time. Print vivid, borderless 4”x6” photos in as fast as 12 seconds5 using the intuitive 4.3" touchscreen, or print on specialty paper6, a variety of sizes of photo paper and CDs/DVDs with dedicated input trays. The printer also features an auto-extend and retract output tray for added convenience so prints don’t end up on the floor when printing remotely.
• Expression Premium XP-630 Small-in-One – The ultra-powerful XP-630 delivers superior photo quality and convenient features for fast, easy printing. The XP-630 prints vivid, borderless photos up to 8" x 10", and provides dedicated trays for printing photos and DVDs. Plus, save time with auto two-sided printing. Other features include a 2.7" LCD as well as built-in USB port and memory card slot2 for PC-free printing.
• Expression Premium XP-530 Small-in-One – Perfect for busy families, the ultra-slim XP-530 delivers superior photo quality for vivid, borderless prints up to 8" x 10”. Use the built-in memory card slot2, plus lined paper and calendar templates, for simple, PC-free printing. Or, easily print Facebook photos, coloring books, stationery and more with Epson's Creative Print App.

Pricing and Availability

The Expression Photo and Premium Small-in-Ones are now available through photo specialty, major e-tail and retail stores nationwide:

• Epson Expression Photo XP-960 Small-in-One
• Epson Expression Premium XP-830 Small-in-One
• Epson Expression Premium XP-630 Small-in-One

From NIkon:

Nikon D7100

Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.02 to 1.03

• Reduced noise (horizontal lines) in movies shot with 1280×720; 60p or 1280×720; 50p selected for Frame size/frame rate.
• Fixed an issue that sometimes caused the display to darken when images were viewed by pressing the (playback) button.
• Fixed an issue with the menus for some languages where continued scrolling would cause the camera to freeze.
• Fixed issues with the virtual horizon displayed using the Viewfinder virtual horizon option.
• Fixed an issue with the camera freezing when the Clean image sensor option was used.

Download Nikon D7100 Firmware v.1.03

Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.02 to 1.03

• Reduced noise (horizontal lines) in movies shot with 1280×720; 60p or 1280×720; 50p selected for Frame size/frame rate.
• Fixed an issue with the camera freezing when the Clean image sensor option was used.

Download Nikon D5200 Firmware v.1.03

Roger Cicala of LensRentals has posted a very informative article detailing the history of glass and covers naturally occuring varieties, the Middle East around 2000 B.C., Roman-era glass, the glassmakers of Venice and even advancements through the 1700s.

It's definitely worth a read if you're interesteed in glass (or simply interested in history) and have a few minutes to spare.

From PMANewsline.com:

The opportunity in the photo industry continues to grow, as more and more pictures are taken. Blogger Benedict Evans reports, in 1999, the peak of the film-camera industry, consumers took around 80 billion photos, according to Kodak. We’re taking far more now, but how many more? At least 2 trillion, maybe double that, maybe more.

According to Evans, no-one can know this exactly, but there are some points of triangulation:

• Facebook said in May 2015 that two billion photos are shared on its systems every day, by 1.4bn users - a 730bn/year run-rate.
• This does not include WhatsApp, which in April 2014 it said it was seeing 700m photos a day from 500m users (255bn a year) - it seems pretty likely that that number has risen since.
• Snapchat gave a number of 700m a day, back in May 2014 - again, that will have risen (a lot) since.

Evans said, just rounding WhatsApp and Snapchat up to 1 billion a day to account for growth in the last year and presuming no growth at Facebook this year gets us to a figure of 1.5 trillion photos shared this year. Growth in usage in the year across these could easily take that to over 2 trillion. That presumes no duplication between these three networks, which is not certain but might not be enormous.

For more information, check out PMANewsline.com or the original post on Ben Evans Blog.

Note: To put that number into perspective, if two trillion one-dollar bills were place on top of each other, the stack would be 135,732 miles tall, or a little over halfway to the moon. [Sean]