Canon and Sony News for Aug 2016 (Page 4)

 Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Roger Cicala of LensRentals recently tested the following lenses on their Olaf Optical Testing bench to see how they compare to one another at 400mm:

  • Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM
  • Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM
  • Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM + 1.4x Extender III (actual focal length = 420mm)
  • Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM
  • Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR
  • Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
  • Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD
  • Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary

Want to know which lens(es) came out on top? Check out the LensRentals Blog post to find out.

Want more information? We have full reviews of all the Canon-compatible lenses Roger tested.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: LensRentals News
Post Date: 8/17/2016 9:00:18 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

Nikon has just udpated several programs as a result of the D3400's announcement. You can find the details below.

Capture NX-D 1.4.2

Changes from Version 1.4.1 to 1.4.2

  • Added support for the D3400 and COOLPIX W100.
  • Fixed the following issues:
    • Capture NX-D would show images marked with a label or rating in ViewNX-i as having been edited.
    • Photos taken with the D500 would be converted to gray images if Convert Files was used after Fisheye was applied.
    • Images modified and saved in other format in Capture NX-D after labels had been applied in ViewNX-i could not be opened in Capture NX 2.

Download: Capture NX-D 1.4.2



ViewNX-i 1.2.3

Changes from Version 1.2.2 to 1.2.3

  • Added support for the D3400 and COOLPIX W100.
  • A Close Filmstrip option is now available in the Viewer Settings for Image Viewer and Full Screen modes.
  • You can now make playback controls always visible during movie playback.
  • Fixed an issue that caused the lens type for pictures taken with type E lenses mounted on the D4S or earlier Nikon D-SLR cameras to be listed as type G in the camera info display.
  • A Movies item has been added to the Options menu giving you the option of selecting Favor frame rate.

Download: ViewNX-i 1.2.3



Picture Control Utility 2.2.1

Changes from Version 2.2.0 to 2.2.1

  • NEF (RAW) photos taken with the D3400 can now be used as preview images.
  • Scales can now be displayed on sliders at all times.

Download: Picture Control Utility 2.2.1



NEF Codec 1.29.0

What’s New with Version 1.29.0

  • Added support for NEF (RAW) images created with the D3400.

Download: NEF Codec 1.29.0

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Post Date: 8/17/2016 6:37:28 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

From Nikon USA:

Share the Moments That Matter: Easily Capture Stunning Images of What You Love with the New Lightweight Nikon D3400

Alongside the New Nikon D3400, Nikon Releases the Compact AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR, AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G, AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lenses to Capture Life in Amazing Quality

August 17, 2016 – MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon unveiled the compact yet powerful Nikon D3400, an entry-level DSLR that enables users to capture and share amazing images easier than ever before. The new D3400 provides a simple and seamless way to share stellar images from nearly anywhere through Nikon SnapBridge(1). Through always-on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology(2), Nikon SnapBridge allows photographers to transfer images from the camera to a compatible smart device. For those looking to learn more about photography, the D3400 also features Nikon’s acclaimed Guide Mode, which provides step-by-step assistance when adjusting camera settings to help individuals learn how to capture the best photos possible.

Nikon also announced four exciting lightweight lens options which are ideal companions for the new D3400, helping budding photographers easily build an all-in-one camera kit(3). The AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G, are versatile zoom lenses for everyday shooting, while the new AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED are compact telephoto options for capturing action from afar. Great for travel, these new portable lenses provide fast, smooth and quiet autofocus operation and help users capture life as it unfolds with stunning clarity and detail.

“Featuring a variety of user-friendly features like Nikon SnapBridge, the new D3400 gives those new to DSLR photography the opportunity to proudly capture what they love and easily share with friends and family,” said Kosuke Kawaura, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “The introduction of the new series of NIKKOR lenses demonstrate Nikon’s commitment to providing affordable and versatile lens options to DX-format DSLR photographers looking to capture their own unique perspective of the world.”

Seamlessly Share Life’s Passions

Transferring photos from the Nikon D3400 is a snap, as the camera makes it easier than ever to share photos wirelessly through Nikon SnapBridge. Using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), SnapBridge creates a connection between a camera and a compatible smart device, making it possible to seamlessly upload amazing images. Once paired, the D3400 will remain connected to the smart device and transfer photos automatically, without the need to re-connect the devices each time. Those that want to send photos from their child’s graduation or a gorgeous sunset can either set all images to automatically download as they are captured, or tag individual images for transfer in-camera. Nikon SnapBridge users can also access Nikon Image Space(4), a free online image sharing and storage service.

Easily Capture Vibrant Photos with Stunning Detail

Life is full of memories that are meant to be captured with rich, vivid image quality, and the Nikon D3400 makes it easy with the high-speed performance and low-light ability that only a DSLR can deliver. The Nikon D3400 features a high-resolution 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor to help capture images that photographers love, even in tough lighting scenarios. Nikon’s EXPEED 4 image processing engine offers improved image quality at high ISOs, enhanced auto white balance performance for true colors, faster processing speeds and improved battery life. Whether shooting stylish candids or beautiful landscapes while on vacation, the Nikon D3400 is ready to help deliver magnificent stills and impressive Full HD video.

The Nikon D3400 is loaded with high performance features that help capture images in a variety of shooting situations, including a broad ISO range from 100-25,600, which helps to produce top-quality photos and videos with low noise. This enhanced ISO range makes it easy to capture sharp photos in low-light settings, such as indoor sports, stage performances or festivities that last into the night. An 11-point Autofocus System keeps pace to help create sharp images, whether capturing a backyard soccer game or the most rambunctious toddler. Additionally, the Nikon D3400 is capable of fast continuous shooting at up to 5 frames-per-second (fps), helping to ensure that fleeting moments or precious expressions are not missed. All of these features are incorporated into an extremely compact, lightweight and versatile camera body, ideal for a fast-paced on-the-go lifestyle, and small enough to bring on any family vacation.

For first-time DSLR users, the D3400 features Nikon’s Guide Mode, an intuitive and informative mode that helps develop photography skills and showcases the best camera settings for any scene. By simply turning the top Command Dial to this mode, users are prompted with a full range of capture options, and the camera guides them through various settings to create the desired image. Additionally, in-camera Scene Modes are an easy way to snap great pictures, without the need to adjust numerous settings. For even more creative shooting options, fun effects modes such as Silhouette and Miniature Photography help photographers make images that define their distinct style. When the moment calls for HD video, the D3400 offers Full HD 1080p video recording capability at the press of a button to tell any story with amazing sharpness and clarity.

Capturing the World Through a NIKKOR Lens

Nikon has also announced two new lightweight zoom lenses, the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G. The ideal companion for DX-format DSLR cameras like the new D3400, these lenses are equipped with Nikon’s Stepping Motor technology for quick, smooth and quiet autofocus. Designated AF-P NIKKOR, these new lenses provide faster and smoother AF speed during live view (contrast-detection AF) and allow for whisper-quiet operation during video recording to minimize camera noise. The Vibration Reduction (VR) technology of the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR offers up to four stops of image stabilization*, helping users capture flawless, blur-free images in challenging light or when handheld.

Affordable Telephoto Lenses Offer Endless Photography Possibilities

The new AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED are telephoto zoom lenses that provide further reach when users need it most. They are also equipped with a Stepping Motor that helps achieve quick, smooth and quiet autofocus. The adoption of this technology also reduces the overall size and weight of the lens, making it easy to carry on a family vacation or a trip to the zoo. The new AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR also features Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, offering up to four stops of image stabilization*, helping to create sharp images in challenging light, such as an indoor gymnasium or a dusk soccer game.

Pricing and Availability

The Nikon D3400 kitted with the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR will be available in early September 2016 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $649.95**. The D3400 will also be available in a two-lens kit option, including the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED, for $999.95** SRP. The AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (SRP, $249.95**), AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G (SRP $199.95**), AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR (SRP, $399.95**) and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED (SRP $349.95**) will all be available around the same time and will be sold separately.

B&H has the following available for preorder

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Posted to:    Category: Nikon Announcements
Post Date: 8/17/2016 6:14:20 AM ET   Posted By: Sean
 Tuesday, August 16, 2016
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Posted to: Canon News   
Post Date: 8/16/2016 10:36:53 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

Image quality results from the Nikon D810 have been added to the Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G AF-S VR Lens page.

B&H has the Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G AF-S VR Lens in stock with a 4% reward.

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Posted to:    Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 8/16/2016 8:08:21 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Monday, August 15, 2016

Those looking to add a Canon wide-angle zoom to their full-frame kits will likely be considering between the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM and EF 17-40mm f/4L USM lenses. At first glance, choosing between them may not seem easy.

The first thing to keep in mind when purchasing a wide-angle zoom lens is, "What is my intended use for this lens?" If the answer involves capturing action – like dancing at a wedding reception – then your decision is an easy one.

The Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens' one-stop aperture advantage will allow you to use a shutter speed that's twice as fast as the other lenses at identical ISOs. Another way to look at it is that using an f/4 aperture to stop action would require doubling the ISO to achieve the same shutter speed obtained using an f/2.8 aperture. Considering that many wedding receptions are held in low light venues, using an f/2.8 aperture is the only way to freeze action and keep high ISO noise at bay without compromising the image quality with detail-robbing noise removal.

There are three drawbacks to the 16-35mm f/2.8L II, though – price, lack of image stabilization and an 82mm front filter thread. Of course, that last "drawback" may not be an issue if you have other lenses requiring 82mm filters (allowing for the ease of filter sharing), but the 77mm filter size is certainly more common and more likely already part of one's kit.

If shooting architecture, real estate, landscapes, cityscapes (or anything else with a "scapes" on the end), the other two wide-angle zoom options can be easily employed while minimizing the investment required to create such imagery.

If you don't require an f/2.8 maximum aperture and price is not a primary factor, get the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM lens. Benefits of the 16-35 f/4L IS include a slightly wider focal length, 77mm filter threads, image stabilization and enhanced fluorine lens coatings for top notch image quality. The 16-35 f/4L IS will allow you to use shutter speeds 4-stops slower to capture sharp images of static subjects while hand-holding the camera, thereby making tripod use less of a necessity (great for backpacking adventures).

So why would you choose the EF 17-40mm f/4L USM over the other two options? The primary reason is price. However, rebate can affect the price comparison significantly. With the current instant rebates in place, the 17-40mm f/4L is only $250.00 less expensive than its 16-35 f/4L IS counterpart. Many will appreciate the 16-35 f/4L IS's benefits for the difference in price.

But again, if money is really tight, the 17-40mm f/4L is still an excellent option. One can easily give up image stabilization if using a tripod, and if shooting at f/8, you won't likely notice a sharpness difference between the two lenses at their widest focal lengths (though the 17-40L does exhibit more CA). Another benefit of the 17-40L is a slightly longer focal range, sacrificing 1mm on the wide end but gaining 5mm on the long end.

If size/weight is the ultimate deciding factor, the EF 17-40mm f/4L USM is the smallest and lightest with the 16-35mm lenses being very similar to one another in those regards. However, the EF 17-40 f/4L's lens hood is so big that it will take up significantly more space when affixed to the lens (reversed) compared to the EF 16-35 f/4L with its hood.

If image quality wide open is the ultimate deciding factor, the oldest lens of the bunch – the EF 17-40 f/4L USM – easily falls short of the other options. Take a look at the corner results of the 17-40 f/4L vs. 16-35 f/4L IS tested on the EOS 5Ds R at f/4 with the lenses set to their widest focal lengths. Of course a wide zoom lens isn't always used at its widest focal length and the IQ difference lessens at longer focal lengths, but... I feel that a wide-angle zooms are primarily purchased for their widest focal length capability, thereby making the widest focal length comparison most significant.

When comparing the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM to the EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM, differences in sharpness become much more nuanced when the lenses are compared at their widest common aperture of f/4 at 16mm. The 16-35 f/4L IS is definitely better in the corners, but not by a huge degree. When both lenses are compared wide open, the IQ chasm is greater as the f/2.8's stopped-down advantage disappears (the same is true for the 35mm results as well).

Of course, there are other factors that can impact image quality besides sharpness including distortion, flare and vignetting. Use the site's Comparison Tools to fully compare these lenses.

B&H carries the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM and EF 17-40mm f/4L IS USM lenses.

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Post Date: 8/15/2016 8:24:49 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

Just posted: Tamrac Anvil Super 25 Review.

This camera backpack is definitely worth considering for your long lens carry, transport and storage needs.

B&H has the Tamrac Anvil Super 25 in stock.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 8/15/2016 7:37:27 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

From Reikan:

Reikan has released FoCal 2.2, an update to its automated focus tuning software for Canon and Nikon dSLRs.

FoCal 2.2 adds support for Canon 80D and 1DX Mark II cameras as well as new features to allow more direct comparison of camera and lens performance with other FoCal users.

Directly compare “Peak” quality values. FoCal users have been uploading their results for over 4 years and FoCal 2.2 makes it easier to compare this data. For example during a Focus Calibration the peak sharpness figure can be directly compared against that same figure from other users. There will always be some variation of lens sharpness between different copies but this feature provides a clear indication if something is really amiss.

Other enhancements include faster image processing with a speed up of more than 40 times! This reduces the overall time for a complete calibration as a significant part of the process now takes very little time.

FoCal 2.2 builds upon last months 2.1 release for the Nikon D5/D500 cameras and means FoCal is fully up to date with the very latest Canon and Nikon dSLRs.

You can purchase FoCal 2.2 from Reikan's website.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Reikan News
Post Date: 8/15/2016 7:22:39 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

According to the Egami Blog, Canon has filed the patent for an EF 28-560mm f/2.8-5.6L USM optical formula. Considering the specs of the lens, "IS" would likely be included (though not precisely specified).

Patent Details

  • Patent Publication No. 2016-142795
  • Published 2016.8.8
  • Submitted 2015.1.30
  • Zoom ratio 18.86
  • Focus distance 28.80 119.57 543.20
  • F-number 2.88 4.56 5.88
  • Angle of view (degrees) 36.91 10.26 2.28
  • Length 281.07 331.07 385.01
  • BF 53.05 61.31 40.00
  • The effective diameter of the front lens 120.00

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Posted to: Canon News   Category: Camera and Lens Patents
Post Date: 8/15/2016 5:55:50 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

While some of these tips may seem a little obvious, they're all worth considering if interested in investing in a gimbal stabilizer system. Note that the video author's tip for using a quick release doesn't mention that a completely enclosed QR system – like the Manfrotto RC2 – would be best to ensure quick setup/breakdown without the need for rebalancing. With an Arca-style QR system, it's difficult to get the plate identically positioned when mounting. And when it comes to stabilizers, "close" won't usually cut it. [Sean]

B&H carries gimbal stabilizers.

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Post Date: 8/15/2016 5:30:06 AM ET   Posted By: Sean
 Friday, August 12, 2016

Plane rides are often a means to an end, but this one was so much more. Flying in a float plane over the Shelikof Strait and along the remote southeast coast of Katmai National Park was ... breathtaking. And those breathtaking sights were very photo-worthy, but not without complications.
 
Airplane windows are not designed with photography in mind and there is some non-optical glass between the camera and the subject. Reflections, uneven contrast reduction and color toning (mostly in the sky in this frame) were among the complications. After an initial attempt at cleaning up the image, I revisited it a number of times over the nearly 1 year that has passed since this flight. The incredible scene was worth the extra effort that went into post processing, but ... I'm still not sure I have this right.


What do you think?

A larger version of this image is available on Flickr, Google+, Facebook and 500px. If reading from a news feed reader, click through to see the framed image.

 
Camera and Lens Settings
70mm  f/8.0  1/1600s
ISO 500
8688 x 5792px
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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Photo Tips and Stories
Post Date: 8/12/2016 10:12:29 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

From the Canon USA YouTube Channel:

Having an idea is one thing. Having the tools to make it happen is amazing. Watch YouTuber, ScottDW, unlock his creativity on the set of ‘High School Dance Battle –Gym Class Disaster!’ with the help of his Canon EOS 80D video creator kit.

B&H carries the Canon EOS 80D and has the 80D Video Creator Kit available for preorder.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   
Post Date: 8/12/2016 9:00:19 AM ET   Posted By: Sean

Through August 19, you can enter to win an LG 34" 21:9 UltraWide Thunderbolt Curved LED Monitor at B&H. Simply click the "Enter Now" button beside "Win a Free 21:9 Monitor of Your Own," fill out the information and submit your entry.

If looking for a new monitor, you may want to consider the non-curved LG 34" UltraWide LED which is currently only $348.00 with free expedited shipping. Regularly $598.00.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   
Post Date: 8/12/2016 6:27:30 AM ET   Posted By: Sean
 Thursday, August 11, 2016

From the Canon Digital Learning Center:

You’ve planned your family vacation for weeks, months or even longer. You’ve put in a lot of work deciding where you’re staying, what you’re going to eat, and what you’ll do for entertainment. Now you want to make sure you capture the special moments you’ve worked so hard to create.

A family vacation is one of those special events throughout the year that you’ll want to remember. It’s a good idea to plan ahead, so you’re prepared to photograph the moments you want to cherish. Here are a few things to think about from packing to unpacking.

Read the entire article on the Canon Digital Learning Center.

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Post Date: 8/11/2016 1:46:12 PM ET   Posted By: Sean

From Photoshelter:

Get creative lighting ideas and prep for a great next shoot

You might be a lighting master, just starting out, or maybe somewhere in between. Either way, our latest guide, The Photographer’s Lighting Handbook, in partnership with Profoto, will have you conjuring up ways to improve your next shoot.

Inside, we’ve got tips on both the creative and the business side of lighting. So, you’ll learn:

  • How to plan for a well lit shoot, including questions to ask your clients
  • Tips to bill your clients for location lighting
  • Lighting modifiers you should own (and why)
  • Advancements in lighting that may not be on your radar

Also hear from photographers Tommy Shih, Brian Smith, Lindsay Adler and Vanessa Joy on lighting the perfect portrait, environmental lighting, and more.

Up your lighting game; download the free guide today!

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Post Date: 8/11/2016 11:38:31 AM ET   Posted By: Sean
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