Canon and Sony News for Dec 2021 (Page 3)
Updated: Canon RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM Lens Review
Comparisons with the Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens and Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD Lens are now included in the alternatives section near the end of this review.
As I said before, the light weight, compact size, long focal lengths, and affordable price tag assure this lens high popularity.
The Canon RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA | WEX
Previously, I asked if the weasel was adorable or a vicious killer? Most would rate the other image as considerably more adorable, but on this day, both descriptions accurately described this little predator.
As I said before, the opportunity was a unique one. What started as a glimpse of a weasel hunting in the brush turned into an afternoon of waiting, with some watching and frantic photographing mixed in. Often nocturnal, weasels are seldom seen, and when they do show themselves, getting the fast- and erratically-moving critters in the frame is tremendously challenging, even without accounting for accurate focusing.
On this afternoon, a pair of weasels were raiding ground squirrel nests. Capturing photos of the weasels alone was extremely challenging, and capturing photos of the weasels returning to their underground caches with ground squirrels in their mouths was even more so.
A key to successful wildlife photography is knowing (guessing properly) where the subject is going, and finding an attractive composition it might enter into. I guessed right on this weasel's return path, and the near-ground-level Sony Alpha 1 with a Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens mounted captured the weasel running over a rock with a clean background.
A larger version of this image is available on Flickr or here.
ISO 320
4956 x 3304px
On this trip, I was primarily testing the new EOS R3 with the Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens. However, I had the lightweight, compact, inexpensive Canon RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM Lens on an EOS R5 readily available in a toploader case, handy to pull out when a wider need arose.
Each morning while heading to the favored deer photography locations, I passed an eastern overlook just before sunrise. A high mountain with no substantial mountains to the east that allows visibility of the sun at a very low angle is a great location to see colorful sunrise. Shenandoah National Park is one such location, and the percentage of photogenic sunrises here is quite high.
On this morning, I simply pulled over, set up the Really Right Stuff Ascend Tripod with the integrated head, mounted the RF 100-400 and R5, and took a few pictures before resuming the deer chase.
As illustrated here, the convenience and utility of the RF 100-400mm lens are very high. The long focal lengths can fill the frame with the color of even a compact sunrise show, and a wide aperture is not important in this case.
With the lens and in-body image stabilization, I could have handheld this shot, but strong winds made the tripod an easier choice for composition and steadiness reasons.
A larger version of this image is available on here.
ISO 100
8192 x 5464px
From Canon Japan (translated):
Apology and guidance regarding the supply status of products
Updated: December 3, 2021
Thank you for your continued patronage of Canon products.
Currently, we have received orders for each of the following products in excess of expectations, and due to the impact of global parts supply, delivery delays are occurring. We apologize for the inconvenience caused to our customers and business partners.
The products are scheduled to be shipped one by one, but it is expected that it will take a lot of time for the new camera body EOS R3 and RF lens RF14-35mm F4 L IS USM.
We sincerely apologize for the long wait for our long-awaited customers. We will continue to take measures to ensure a stable supply of products so that we can deliver our products as soon as possible. Thank you kindly look forward for your understanding.
About supply: It will be shipped in sequence, but it may take more than half a year to deliver when you place a new order:
Canon EOS R3
Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L IS USM Lens
About supply: We plan to ship the products one by one, but it may take longer than usual to deliver.
Canon RF 16mm F2.8 STM Lens
Canon RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM Lens
Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
Eye cup ER-hE
Lens hood EW-65C
Act fast: many of the above items are in stock now:
The Amazon USA has the Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens in stock.
The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L IS USM Lens is in stock at B&H.
The Canon RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM Lens is in stock at B&H.
The Canon RF 16mm F2.8 STM is in stock at Canon USA and "Coming Soon" to Amazon USA.
From Sony (translated):
Dear customers
Notice and apology regarding temporary suspension of orders for digital imaging products
Thank you for your continued patronage of Sony products.
Currently, with regard to digital imaging products, parts procurement is delayed due to the effects of global semiconductor shortages.
Therefore, we will suspend the acceptance of orders from our distributors and customers at the Sony store as follows for specific models with tight supply.
Regarding the resumption of order acceptance, we will consider it while observing the status of parts supply, and will inform you separately on the product information page.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to our customers.
We will do our utmost to deliver the product as soon as possible, and we appreciate your understanding.
[About the model that has stopped accepting orders]
After December 3, 2021, we will suspend the acceptance of orders from our distributors and customers' orders at the Sony store.
Digital single-lens camera: VLOGCAM ZV-E10 series
[Click here for information on past product supply "Products subject to suspension of order acceptance"]
· Digital single-lens camera: a7 II series / a6400 series / a6100 body (black)
· Shotgun microphone: ECM-B1M
· Professional camcorder: PXW-Z190
· Digital video camera Handycam "HDR-CX680"
· Tripod "VCT-P300", Multipod "VCT-MP1"
Some of the above-listed products are still in stock at B&H.
Patches of red berry bushes in Shenandoah National Park had my attention, and I was spending time near them, hoping that whitetail deer photo opportunities incorporating the berries would show up. A couple of days prior, I photographed a smaller buck eating the berries, but the images were not remarkable.
On this morning, I discovered an impressive 12pt point buck bedded near a berry-favorable area.
Bedded deer can get up at any moment, but they can also stay down for many hours. When it comes to antler size, bigger is almost always better, and I knew that few bigger bucks were in the area. Thus, I committed to hanging with this buck for the long haul.
Not too long after I sat down, there was a solid thump sound behind me. The doe and fawns hanging with the buck immediately got up and walked toward the sound. An apple had fallen from an apple tree, and the deer were going to eat it. Soon after this, the buck got up and began to move away — straight into the berries.
While incorporating the red berries was the goal, the thick berry bush branches were a visibility obstacle.
Traditionally, a camera attempting to autofocus on an eye in the brush led to the camera focusing on the closest branch in the view. In this situation, obtaining a keeper image typically required manual focusing, a challenge when the animal is erratically moving and the depth of field is shallow.
Game-changing is that the Canon EOS R-series camera's animal eye detection can often focus through the brush, creating a high percentage of properly focused images despite obstructions, such as those seen beside this buck's eye. This outstanding feature is one of many reasons to move to one of the latest mirrorless interchangeable lens camera models.
While this animal was not moving especially fast, its head was, and the Canon EOS R3's high frame captured the relatively few moments when the eye was visible in the obstructions.
I'll likely share more images of this buck. We spent the next 5 hours having an adventure together.
A larger version of this image is available on here.
ISO 320
6000 x 4000px
Sony Alpha 1 firmware update version 1.20 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.20 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Added support for FTP transfer in active mode
- Improved operational stability
Get the Sony Alpha 1 at B&H.
Sony Alpha 9 II firmware update version 3.20 is available for download.
Firmware Version 3.20 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Added support for FTP transfer in active mode
- Improved operational stability
Get the Sony Alpha 9 II at B&H.
Sony ZV-E10 firmware update version 2.00 available for download.
Firmware Version VERSION incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Eye AF during movie shooting is now compatible with animals
- Corrected the phenomenon that the touch shutter may not work
- Improved operational stability
Get the Sony ZV-E10 at B&H.
Canon EOS R5 firmware update version 1.5.0 is now available for download.
Firmware Version 1.5.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Improves head detection performance to support helmets or goggles in winter sports.
- Adds [Vehicles] selection to [Subject to detect] selection in the [AF] tab to support the detection of automobiles and motorcycles in motorsports. Adds [Spot detection] when [Vehicles] is selected as the helmet of the driver or rider*.
*Detection may not be possible for ordinary passenger cars or bicycles, or for motorcyclists performing stunts or kicking up dirt and dust. - Improves detection performance for eye detection when:
- there are shadows on the face.
- hair is hanging over the eyes. - Adds support for torso detection of a person. If the eyes, face or head are hidden or cannot be detected, a person's torso will be detected and tracked continuously.
- Adds the ability to import manual white balance (MWB) data from the Quick Control screen when capturing still images.
- Eliminates the center press operation of the multi-controller to prevent accidentally transferring images during FTP transfer.
- Adds the ability, when using EOS Utility or Browser Remote for remote shooting with two cards inserted, to set the recording method and to select which card to be recorded to.
- Adds [Suppress lower frame rate] to [Smooth] in [Disp. performance], enabling the shooting screen to be displayed with less drop frame rate even in dark locations.
- Adds support for the RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye lens.
- Changes the default value of [FTP server] to [Passive mode] to [Enable].
- Improves operation stability during FTP transfer.
- Optimizes controls of In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) when using specific EF lenses not equipped with the image stabilization function.
- Fixes an issue, in which noise occurs along the edges of bright subjects when using Canon Log for movie recording.
Get the Canon EOS R5 at B&H.
Canon EOS R6 firmware update version 1.5.0 is now available for download on 12/2/2021.
Firmware Version 1.5.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Improves head detection performance to support helmets or goggles in winter sports.
- Adds [Vehicles] selection to [Subject to detect] selection in the [AF] tab to support the detection of automobiles and motorcycles in motorsports. Adds [Spot detection] when [Vehicles] is selected as the helmet of the driver or rider*.
*Detection may not be possible for ordinary passenger cars or bicycles, or for motorcyclists performing stunts or kicking up dirt and dust. - Improves detection performance for eye detection when:
- there are shadows on the face.
- hair is hanging over the eyes. - Adds support for torso detection of a person. If the eyes, face or head are hidden or cannot be detected, a person's torso will be detected and tracked continuously.
- Adds the ability to import manual white balance (MWB) data from the Quick Control screen when capturing still images.
- Eliminates the center press operation of the multi-controller to prevent accidentally transferring images during FTP transfer.
- Adds the ability, when using EOS Utility or Browser Remote for remote shooting with two cards inserted, to set the recording method and to select which card to be recorded to.
- Adds [Suppress lower frame rate] to [Smooth] in [Disp. performance], enabling the shooting screen to be displayed with less drop frame rate even in dark locations.
- Changes the default value of [FTP server] to [Passive mode] to [Enable].
- Improves operation stability during FTP transfer.
- Optimizes controls of In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) when using specific EF lenses not equipped with the image stabilization function.
- Fixes an issue, in which noise occurs along the edges of bright subjects when using Canon Log for movie recording.
Get the Canon EOS R6 at B&H.
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III firmware update version 1.6.0 is now available for download on 12/2/2021.
Firmware Version 1.6.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Improves head detection performance to support helmets or goggles in winter sports.
- Eliminates the center press operation of the multi-controller to prevent accidentally transferring images during FTP transfer.
- Adds the ability, when the Rating function is assigned to the Protect/Voice memo button, for voice memos to now be recorded by pressing and holding the button.
- Adds the ability, when using EOS Utility or Browser Remote for remote shooting with two cards inserted, to set the recording method and to select which card to be recorded to.
- Changes the default value of [Connection option settings], [FTP transfer settings], and [Power saving] to [Disable].
- Changes the default value of [FTP server] to [Passive mode] to [Enable].
- Improves operation stability during FTP transfer.
- Fixes an issue, in which noise occurs along the edges of bright subjects when using Canon Log for movie recording.
Get the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III at B&H.
Sometimes, I need a specific camera setup immediately. Otherwise, a fleeting moment is gone forever, leaving regret for not having that particular setup already configured.
That specific setup always involves a camera mode. When the camera mode is controlled electronically vs. directly selected on a dial, the camera has freedom in how a mode is selected. Yes, electronics could override a traditional dial-selected mode, but a mode dial set to one mode and the camera operating in a different mode is awkward.
When using a Canon R-series camera without a dedicated mode dial (the R6 and RP have a dedicated mode dial), the obvious way to select a camera mode is to press the mode button and turn the dial surrounding it. That works fine, requiring little additional effort over the conventional mode dial.
Canon has long provided C (Custom) modes that are extremely useful for storing a specific camera setup for quick access. However, turning the mode dial or pressing a button and turning the dial is not fast enough when photographing a fleeting opportunity.
The answer to this dilemma? Use a Canon R-series or 1-series camera with an electronically selected mode dial (the EOS R3, EOS R5, EOS R, and EOS-1D X Mark III, and EOS-1D X Mark II as I write this), configure a C mode to the immediately needed settings, and program the camera's M-Fn button to access a C mode instantly.
The R-series and 1-series cameras are highly customizable. Canon lists the customizable buttons and the functions available for them near the end of the owner's manual (owner's manual links are provided at the top of each camera review page). The R3's list starts on page 939, the R5's list begins on page 816, the R's list starts on page 556, the 1D X III's list begins on page 855, and the 1D X II's list starts on page 444. Paging down, you will find the C option is available for, at this time, only the M-Fn button.
When programmed to C, the M-Fn button toggles between the enabled C modes, up to all three (C1, C2, and C3), and the previously selected mode (including other camera settings) with each press. C modes can be disabled in the "Restrict shooting modes" menu option (not available in the R). Enabling only one C mode causes the M-Fn button to toggle between the single C mode and the previous camera settings, providing instant access to a specific camera setup, with instant reversion back to the previous settings via another M-Fn press.
When photographing wildlife with the R3, I wanted to take advantage of the incredible 30 fps capture rate (20 fps for the R5, 8 fps for the R). However, I knew the overwhelming selection challenge that shooting 30 fps for five days would create.
Here is the solution:
Adjust the camera to the settings desired for fast action. For the whitetail deer adventure, this meant using the electronic shutter with H+ 30 fps continuous shooting. Servo AF with eye control enabled provided quick focus acquisition, and subject tracking held the focus on the eye, including with a fast moving subject. The R3 in M mode with a wide-open aperture, fast shutter speed (at least 1/2500), and Auto ISO usually resulted in sharp details and proper exposures. The next step was to program these settings into custom mode 1 (with C2 and C3 disabled) via the menu option in the Tools menu. The M-Fn button programmed to C then provided fast, single button press access to the settings configured for the C mode.
The next step was to set the camera for the normal shooting requirements. For this shoot, manual mode with the 15 fps continuous shooting rate was selected. In the field, I roll the top dial to select the shutter speed needed for the subject at hand. Typically, immediate insurance shots are captured with a fast speed. If the subject permits, the shutter speed is increasingly lengthened as more images are captured. The goal is to have lower ISO, lower noise options from the scenario.
When moving, wildlife often moves suddenly. For example, a bird launches to take off, and a whitetail deer abruptly gives chase to a doe or competing buck. I'm sure you can add to that list of scenarios. When the sudden movement happens, a quick press of the M-Fn button immediately provides the settings programmed for fast action.
When the action slows down again, press the M-Fn button to return to the previous shooting settings.
Why is only the M-Fn button able to be programmed to C? Good question — that answer was unknown when I asked. Indeed, more buttons should be programmable to C, and I and would not be surprised to see that happen in the future. The R3's M-Fn 2 button is a prime candidate.
By default, the M-Fn button is programmed to Dial Func, a useful feature itself. To retain easy access to this function, consider programming the nearby Lamp button to Dial Func.
If your camera does not offer electronic mode selection, go pick out your next camera: The Canon EOS R-series
From Sony:
Sony Electronics’ Airpeak S1 Professional Drone Now Available to Order
World’s Smallest Alpha Mirrorless Camera-Ready Professional Drone Will Ship on December 24, 2021
SAN DIEGO, CA – December 1, 2021 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the availability timing of the company’s first-ever professional drone, "Airpeak S1." The introductory model in the new Airpeak line, the S1 is the world's smallest drone that can be equipped with a full-size mirrorless interchangeable-lens Alpha camera, opening up a new world of creative possibilities for cinematographers and other visual storytelling professionals[i]. Pre-sale opens today, December 1, 2021, with an expected customer ship date of December 24, 2021.
Introduced to the public for the first time earlier this year, Airpeak S1 drone is designed for the professional user, and is compatible with a wide range of Sony’s camera bodies including the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S series, the Alpha 7R series, the Alpha 9 series, FX3 and others. It leverages proprietary technology and delivers for smooth maneuverability at high speeds with highly stable wind resistance, enabling high-quality aerial images and video content.
“We’re excited to now make the new Airpeak S1 drone available for purchase, and for the amazing set of possibilities this drone opens for cinematographers,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The drone’s compact size, new software features and advanced imaging, sensing, AI and robotics reflect the high quality the industry respects Sony for, and enables content creators and commercial professionals to capture images and video not possible before.”
The drone includes “Airpeak Flight”[ii] iOS®-based application which integrates and monitors all hardware related to the drone, giving the operator real-time status display and updates on screen. "Airpeak Base"ii web application is also available, allowing the operator to manage the equipment, create advanced flight plans, run the same pattern repeatedly, and fully manage and troubleshoot flight logs. For multiple operators, Airpeak S1 also includes a dual operation mode so one user can operate the drone as another operates the gimbal and camera, while each can monitor the content being recorded.
An optional cloud service, “Airpeak Plus”ii is available by paid subscription and provides additional data storage, advanced geofencing options, and import/export of flight logs.
Airpeak S1 suggested retail price is around $9,000.00 and will ship with two (2) pairs of propellers, a remote controller, two (2) batteries and a battery charger. A third-party gimbal made specifically for Airpeak S1 will be sold separately. Pricing for Airpeak S1 accessories can be found https://electronics.sony.com/more/c/airpeak. The optional “Airpeak Plus” subscription service will retail for around $300.00 for a 12-month period, with the optional “Protect Plan” coverage also available.
For more information, please visit: https://electronics.sony.com/airpeak
With this Airpeak news, Sony Group Corporation expands the possibilities for professional creators, enables unprecedented visual expression and drives a sense of Kando. In addition to empowering video creators, Sony will promote co-creation activities for industry professionals[iii] in a wide range of fields such as system integrators and industrial partners to explore the benefits of drone uses.
Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new Airpeak S1 and Sony's other imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com and www.sonycine.com, sites created to educate and inspire fans and customers of Sony a - Alpha brand and Sony’s Cinema Line.
Airpeak S1 is made in Japan. Airpeak is a trademark of Sony Group Corporation.
Orders
Order your Sony Airpeak S1 Professional Drone from B&H.
Learn more at B&H Explora.
Notes
[i] Operating a drone in the United States is subject to federal law and regulations. State and local ordinances may also apply to certain operations. When operating an aircraft, it is the remote pilot/operator's responsibility to always comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.
[ii] Network services, content, and operating system and software are subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information.
[iii] Those who use drones to provide products and services to customers. If you register as a professional supporter, you will receive emails about events sponsored by Sony, opportunities to experience aircraft flight, and the latest product information.
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