Canon and Sony News for Apr 2019 (Page 3)

The Nikon Prime Lenses have been added to the site's Camera Lens MTF Measurements Comparison Tool.

Once again, I'll share my favorite Nikon lens chart in this post.

Go determine which Nikon lens produced your favorite MTF results. Then begin comparing against the other brands.

From Think Tank Photo:

SANTA ROSA, CALIFORNIA – Adventure photographers need a camera bag that’s as tough as they are. With its rugged materials and faceted design, the MindShift PhotoCross 15 backpack by Think Tank Photo will protect your gear from another punishing trip into the wild. The PhotoCross 15 is built to withstand the elements, yet comfortable enough to wear on long days in the field. An extra-large side panel provides quick access to your gear when you’re ready to take the shot — without taking off the backpack.

The PhotoCross 15 comes in two colors, Orange Ember and Carbon Grey. The backpack fits an ungripped DSLR, three to five lenses, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 attached, and up to a 15” laptop. Constructed with durable, abrasion-proof materials and weatherproof zippers, the PhotoCross 15 is the ideal backpack for your next adventure.

“The PhotoCross 15 backpack delivers uncompromising protection and comfort, while offering fast and intuitive gear access,” said Doug Murdoch, Think Tank CEO and Lead Designer. “The incorporation of a waterproof, tarpaulin base and weatherproof zippers and materials demonstrate how Think Tank continues to offer the protection, comfort, and innovation that are customers require.”

KEY FEATURES

• Weatherproof zippers and materials
• Durable materials provide abrasion resistance
• Extra-large side panel gives you complete access to all your gear
• Tripod or jacket carry with included straps
• Dedicated, padded pocket fits 15” laptop
• Waist belt is wide and removable providing comfort and flexibility
• Waterproof, heavy-duty Tarpaulin base
• Wide, body forming shoulder straps provide superior comfort
• Water bottle pocket locks in most 1 liter bottles
• Back panel with breathable 320G air-mesh keeps your back cool during long days
• Internal zippered pockets for batteries, memory cards or other small accessories
• Easily accessible front pockets for filters, snacks, or a light layer
• T-pulls are easily gripped with or without gloves
• Top and side carry-handles
• Fully-customizable interior dividers for photo or personal gear
• Seam-sealed rain cover included for downpour conditions

MATERIALS

Exterior: All fabric exterior is treated with a durable water-resistant coating while fabric underside is coated with polyurethane for superior water resistance, YKK weatherresistant zippers, 420D high-density nylon, heavy-duty nylon Tarpaulin, 350g air mesh, nylon webbing, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Interior: Removable closed-cell foam dividers, P210D liner, polyurethane backed velex liner, 2x polyurethane coated 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, nylon binding tape, 3- ply bonded nylon thread.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Internal Dimensions: 10.6” W x 17.3” H x 5.5” D (27 x 44 x 14 cm)
External Dimensions: 13” W x 19.7” H x 7.5” D (33 x 50 x 19 cm)
Laptop Compartment: 10.2” x 15” x 1” (26 x 38 x 2.5 cm)
Maximum Weight (with all accessories): 3.0 lbs. (1.4 kg)
Shoulder Strap Length: 42.5–62.2” (108–158 cm) (includes length of product)
Waist Belt Length: up to 60.6” (154 cm) (includes length of product)
Volume: 20 liters

Think Tank Photo has the MindShift Gear PhotoCross 15 Backpack in stock with free shipping and a free gift when you use our link for your purchase.

Tamron has released updated software for use with its TAP-in Console, TAP-in Utility v.1.4.0 (download here).

So what's new with this version of TAP-in Utility? Unfortunately, Tamron doesn't think we need to know such trivial information, as no indication has been made on the reference page. However, an interesting thing to note is that the Mac version of the software ballooned from 10 MB for v.1.3.0 to 36 MB for the new version (the Windows application size stayed the same at 1.5 MB).

Download: Tamron TAP-in Utility v.1.4.0

From Tamron:

Dear users and potential purchasers of Tamron interchangeable lenses.

Thank you for using Tamron products and for your continuous support.

We would like to announce that we have clarified compatibility in general operations(*1) of following Tamron Di & Di II lenses on Canon EOS RP, which was newly released on March 14, 2019, with Canon "Mount Adapter EF-EOS R".

(*1) Defined to work on existing DSLR cameras

Compatible models (for Canon) for general operations (*2)

• SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (Model A041) for Canon
• SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (Model A032) for Canon
• SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (Model A025) for Canon
• SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022) for Canon
• SP 35mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F012) for Canon
• SP 45mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F013) for Canon
• SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F016) for Canon
• SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F017) for Canon
• 17-35mm F/2.8-4 Di OSD (Model A037) for Canon
• 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD (Model A034) for Canon
• 100-400mm F/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A035) for Canon
• 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD (Model B023) for Canon
• 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD (Model B028) for Canon
• SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A011) for Canon (*3)

(*2) With the latest F/W version. Regarding the F/W update, please visit here.
(*3) Regarding the update service, please visit here.

Lens Update Service Information

How to Update

For other models, once we confirm the compatibility with Canon EOS R series and Canon adapter, we will announce the models sequentially at our support website. We are sorry to keep you waiting, and also ask for your understanding of the situation.

From the Phlearn YouTube Channel:

If you love Lightroom Classic CC, have we got a trick for you! Today Aaron shows you how to select and change the color of anything in a photo–all in Lightroom. Learn how to use the Adjustment Brush to make rough selections, a Range Mask to refine them, and the HSL/Color panel to dial in the color you want.

Now a fair warning; it’s much easier to change colors in Photoshop. But if your workflow lives in Lightroom Classic, this technique is just another reason to stick with what you love.

B&H carries Adobe Photography Plan subscriptions.

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 utilizes the same small LP-E17 Battery Pack found in the Rebel T7i, the Rebel SL2, and many other recent EOS camera models. Having the same battery shared among many cameras is convenient and efficient in many regards, including from manufacturing and inventory perspectives. That multiple cameras can potentially share the same charger and supply of backup batteries is great and especially helpful when traveling.

Small batteries typically produce small shot ratings and I thought I misheard what Canon USA's Drew McCallum said during a phone call prior to the SL3's announcement. A CIPA 1,630 shot battery life rating (at 73°F/23°C, AE 100% — no flash) from the tiny Canon Battery Pack LP-E17? That is a HUGE increase from the already very reasonable 840 shot rating of the SL2. When the official specifications document arrived with Drew's number confirmed, my skepticism turned to enthusiasm. Most could shoot for days or even weeks on a single battery charge and that is super-convenient.

So, my question was then: "How is the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 getting so many shots from the little LP-E17 Battery Pack?" Whenever I have a Canon camera-related question, Canon USA's Rudy Winston can be counted on for an accurate answer.

First, Rudy assured me that no changes have been made to the LP-E17 battery pack, ending any speculation in that regard.

My own first guess at this answer was that the DIGIC 8 processor could be credited for the significant performance improvement. Rudy's response in this regard was that "While the new DIGIC 8 processor most assuredly adds some features and performance, the engineers did not list improved battery life as a benefit of the latest Canon processor." "Obviously, there were some efficiencies achieved in this updated [camera] model, but our engineers haven't shed light on which ones are responsible for its very good battery performance."

Thus, the full secret formula has not been disclosed and though we may never know the complete set of reasons why the performance is so great, we can still enjoy the great performance.

Think you've seen everything? Think again. In yesterday's post on the LensRentals Blog, LensRentals' Roger Cicala describes the ramifications of finding a fly deep in the inner workings of a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens.

Of course, if there’s going to be a fly in the lens, it’s going to be way deep inside where it’s really hard to get to. I don’t know why flies do that, but I promise you they do. You never see a fly just under the front or rear element. They get into the deepest groups, leaving little fly parts all over, and usually, get smushed by the zoom or focus element.

From X-Rite:

Now includes 18% gray target and updated software to create custom ICC Camera Profiles for Capture One Pro users; plus, added support for ColorChecker Digital SG target

New York, NY – April 4, 2019 – X-Rite Incorporated, the world leader in color management and measurement technologies (http://xritephoto.com/) announces ColorChecker Passport Photo 2, an improved solution that helps professional and enthusiast photographers alike to reduce image processing time and maintain color control and consistency from capture to edit. Quickly and easily set white balance and exposure, create custom DNG or ICC camera profiles, and instantly enhance portraits and landscapes.

X-Rite created the industry-standard ColorChecker Passport 10 years ago which included three photographic targets plus DNG camera calibration software. Passport Photo 2 now combines four photographic targets, featuring a new 18% Gray Balance target, plus upgraded ColorChecker Camera Calibration software that adds ICC camera profile creation, especially useful for Capture One users, or anyone working in an ICC compatible workflow.

“Our original ColorChecker Passport quickly became an industry standard for managing color at capture,” says Liz Quinlisk, Global Business Unit Manager, Photo & Video at X-Rite Incorporated. “Now, with the added functionality of a gray balance target and ICC camera profiling, it’s more powerful than ever. Not only have we broadened our ability to serve Capture One and other ICC workflow users, but every photographer will have all the targets they need in a very portable, protective case.”

ColorChecker Passport Photo 2 includes:

NEW Camera Calibration Software v2.0

Now create a custom DNG or ICC camera profile utilizing an X-Rite ColorChecker Classic or Digital SG target. Camera profiling ensures accurate color at capture based on specific lighting, camera and lens combination during any given shoot, saving valuable time in edit. The newly supported ColorChecker Digital SG target offers an extended gamut to create a more accurate ICC profile.

18% Gray Balance Target

NEW Gray Balance Target Often referred to as middle gray, the 18% Gray Balance target is the de facto industry standard reference. Set proper camera exposure or check lighting ratios and light distribution, which is especially important for portrait photography. It can be used with either a reflective hand-held light meter or in-camera meter for determining exposure and can also be used to set neutral balance and remove color casts.

White Balance Target

Create custom in-camera white balance for a consistent white point across a set of images with no need to correct each individual image later. Setting custom, in-camera white balance allows quick switching between shooting stills and video.

Classic Target

For more than forty years, the Classic 24-patch target has been the industry standard color reference used for visual color assessment and for creating custom camera profiles.

Creative Enhancement Target

Neutralize and create a look with single click enhancement patches; check and evaluate shadow details and highlight clipping; control color shifts.

Lightroom® Plug-In

Create custom DNG camera profiles directly in Adobe® Lightroom® Classic and Lightroom® Classic CC.

Portable Protective Case

Adjusts to accommodate multiple positions to easily incorporate into any scene. Also includes a new handy lanyard.

“Since colors fade with age and light exposure, replacing a target that is several years old ensures complete color accuracy when building camera profiles,” adds Liz Quinlisk.

“Now is the perfect time for photographers to upgrade their toolkit with a Passport Photo 2 and take full advantage of the power and versatility that the updated hardware and software deliver together to save valuable time and achieve the ultimate in color accuracy.”

X-Rite recommends replacement of color reference targets every 18-24 months.

ColorChecker Passport Photo 2 is currently available through X-Rite global authorized resellers. ColorChecker Camera Calibration software is available as a free download at xrite.com/getCOLORCHECKER.

With more color science experience than anyone in the industry, X-Rite Color Checker Passport Photo 2 was truly created by Color Perfectionists for Color Perfectionists.

Color Perfectionists Unite.

 
The X-Rite ColorChecker Passport Photo 2 is in stock at B&H and Adorama.

The Sony Prime Lenses have been added to the site's Camera Lens MTF Measurements Comparison Tool.

Once again, I'll share my favorite chart in this post and will this time add a comparison in the above link. The Sony FE 135mm f/1.8 GM Lens is razor sharp.

Did I pick the best? Go determine out which Sony lens produced your favorite MTF results.

Note that the Zeiss Loxia and Batis prime lens results are coming soon and many additional Lensrentals-sourced test results are promised.

From Sony:

Sony a7R III Firmware v.3.00

Benefits and Improvements from the latest update

• Adds real-time Eye AF for animals
• It is not possible to detect human and animal eyes simultaneously
• Eye detection may not be possible and depends on the environment, animal type, and movement of the animal
• Allows you to operate the real-time EYE AF by half-pressing the shutter button or by pressing the AF-ON button
• Adds the Interval Shooting function
• Allows operation with the wireless remote commander RMT-P1BT (sold separately)
• Allows you to assign the [MENU] to a custom key
• Allows [MENU] tab operation with the Fn button
• Improves the overall stability of the camera

Download: Sony a7R III Firmware v.3.00

Benefits and Improvements from the latest update

• Adds real-time Eye AF for animals
• It is not possible to detect human and animal eyes simultaneously
• Eye detection may not be possible and depends on the environment, animal type, and movement of the animal
• Allows you to operate the real-time EYE AF by half-pressing the shutter button or by pressing the AF-ON button
• Adds the Interval Shooting function
• Allows operation with the wireless remote commander RMT-P1BT (sold separately)
• Allows you to assign the [MENU] to a custom key
• Allows [MENU] tab operation with the Fn button
• Improves the overall stability of the camera

Download: Sony a7 III Firmware v.3.00

From B&H:

What: OPTIC 2019 Outdoor, Photo/Video, Travel Imaging Conference

When: Sunday, June 2nd – Wednesday, June 5th

Where: The New Yorker Hotel, 481 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001

This year’s keynote speaker is recognized as one of the world’s greatest photographers of our time, Frans Lanting. Frans will be joined by a host of Lindblad National Geographic Photographers and contemporary outdoor photographers such as Erika Skogg, Paul North, Lana MacNaughton, Stephen Wilkes, Ron Magill and many others.

What to expect at OPTIC 2019:

• Inspirational and Technical Presentations
• Portfolio Reviews
• Photo Walks
• Signature Sunset Cruise
• Hands-On Photography Stations
• OPTIC Challenge
• Camera Cleanings
• Trade Show

All this free of charge making OPTIC the photo event of the spring for the outdoor, travel, and wildlife photography world.

Learn more and reserve your seat at OPTIC 2019.

Register Now for FREE

Canon has just released Digital Photo Professional 4.10.20, EOS Utility 3.10.20 and Picture Style Editor 1.22.20 – now with EOS SL3 support. (thanks Scott)

Download Canon Software Updates

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 page contains a significant amount of information about this soon-arriving little camera. Check it out!

What are the differences between the Canon EOS SL3 and SL2?

Here is the full Canon EOS Rebel SL3 vs. SL2 Comparison.

And, here are the primary differences.

• 4K video (1.6x crop), 4k movie frame grab, 4k time-lapse capture
• Increased battery life – approx. 1070 vs. 650 (at 23°C, AE 50%, FE 50%)
• New .CR3 RAW file format providing improvements including a 40% smaller file size in the new C-RAW (Compressed RAW) format
• Increased RAW buffer capacity to 10 vs. 6 and to 37 with C-RAW format
• DIGIC 8 vs. 7
• Has Smooth Skin mode vs. Panning mode
• Improved ALO (Auto Lighting Optimizer), retaining gradations in highlights and shadows
• Guided User Interface and Creative Assist modes available
• Easier Wi-Fi setup including a new purple menu tab and editable pre-assigned names
• No dedicated DOF preview button, flash release button changed to a small flange on flash

Note that the camera body and with-lens kit already have a $50 and $100 instant rebate respectively available.

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is available for preorder at B&H | Amazon | Adorama | WEX

From Canon USA:

Empowering Users with an Easy Way to Express Themselves, the New Camera Delivers Stunning Photos and 4K Videos in a Lightweight Body

MELVILLE, N.Y., April 10, 2019 – Combining ease-of-use with high-image quality, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today unveiled the EOS Rebel SL3 DSLR camera, the smallest and lightest product within the current EOS lineup. Weighing just 15.84 oz¹, the EOS Rebel SL3 offers users a compact system delivering high-resolution images – complete with an APS-C imaging sensor, DIGIC 8 Image Processor and 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD touchscreen as well as 4K video, a first for the EOS Rebel lineup. Compatible with Canon’s full line of interchangeable EF and EF-S lenses, along with the ability to instantly send images to compatible smartphones through Auto Image Transfer via Wi-Fi®connectivity², the EOS Rebel SL3 is the tool needed to empower aspiring photographers to capture gorgeous shots quickly and easily.

“Since its inception, the EOS Rebel product line has aimed to provide imaging excellence for entry-level visual storytellers,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Therefore, it was imperative that the next step in the EOS Rebel journey include innovative features such as 4K video and DIGIC 8 Image Processor to meet the needs of emerging photographers, while living up to the high-image quality and compact size EOS Rebel DSLRs are known for.”

The EOS Rebel SL3 carries a powerful 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, enabling users to snap photos and express themselves across a multitude of settings – whether it be a beautiful night scene, stunning family-vacation destination or a picturesque landscape. The camera is equipped with Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor – first introduced in the EOS M50 and later built into the revolutionary EOS R full-frame mirrorless system. DIGIC 8 helps improve autofocus performance and allows for the processing of 4K video and 4K time-lapse movies – helping budding videographers record scenes such as the colorful evening skyline in brilliant detail.

The EOS Rebel SL3 features autofocus (AF) capabilities, delivering nine AF points across the optical viewfinder. This includes a new Spot AF which allows users to focus on a precise area within the subject. The EOS Rebel SL3 is the first DSLR in the Canon EOS line to feature Dual Pixel CMOS AF³ with Eye Detection AF in Live View shooting mode. With its optical viewfinder and Live View LCD monitor, photographers can enjoy two different ways of shooting and customize their experience based on the scene. The system is also the first Canon EOS SLR to incorporate a Smooth Skin setting, which can help render skin tones as well as Creative Assist – an interface by which users can check and seamlessly change shooting conditions in Live View⁴– such as white balance or brightness – in real time.

Additional key features of the EOS Rebel SL3 camera include:

• Feature Assistant that guides and offers tips for more effective shooting
• Continuous shooting mode up to 5.0 fps
• Digital Lens Optimizer that corrects optical shifting automatically, even without a computer⁵

The EOS Rebel SL3 will be available toward the end of April for purchase in black and white color options for an estimated retail price of $599.99, for the body only and $749.99 for the body with a EF-S 18-55 f/4-5.6 IS STM lens*.

Canon EOS SL3 Preorders - B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX

1 Includes battery and SD memory card (confirms with CIPA standards).
2 Compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (Android™ version 5.0 or later and the following iOS® devices: iPhone 4s or later, iPad 3rd gen. or later, iPod Touch 5th gen. or later) equipped with Bluetooth® version 4.0 or later and the Camera Connect app.
3 Based on results of AF speed tests in accordance with CIPA guidelines. Results may vary depending on shooting conditions and lens in use.
4 Available AF points may decrease when shooting with AF cropping or in movie mode, or depending on camera settings or lens attached.
5 Up to three lenses can be registered at once within the camera.
*Availability, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs and measurements have been added to the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens page.

This is a good lens.

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens is in stock at B&H | Amazon | Adorama | WEX

Rent the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens from Lensrentals.