From Sigma Corporation of America:
Introducing the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art, the First Full-Frame F1.8 Zoom Lens for Mirrorless Camera Systems
Ronkonkoma, NY – June 3, 2024 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's first zoom lens with a constant F1.8 aperture for full-frame mirrorless camera systems. Available for Sony E-mount and L-Mount, this new wide-to-standard zoom spans several popular focal lengths from 28mm to 45mm, with image quality comparable to prime lenses.
The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art was developed as a full-frame successor to the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art (for APS-C DSLR cameras), which in 2013 became the first lens in the world to achieve F1.8 throughout the entire zoom range.
While offering the convenience of a zoom, this new lens does not compromise on optical performance. By effectively arranging 3 aspherical lens elements and 5 SLD glass elements, this lens suppresses various aberrations and achieves performance comparable to single focal length lenses, even surpassing the SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG DN | Art and SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG DN | Art, which have an established reputation for their optical quality.
In particular, the 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art focuses on suppressing axial chromatic aberration, which is often noticeable in large-aperture lenses, to achieve images with minimal coloration on both the focus plane and bokeh, and to demonstrate high optical performance from open aperture. The minimum focusing distance is 30cm (11.8 inches) throughout the entire range, and the maximum magnification ratio of 1:4 is achieved at the 45mm focal length.
Featuring internal zoom and HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) autofocus, and an optical design that minimizes focus breathing, the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art is well-suited for video work, including gimbal setups, thanks to its balanced design. The click/de-click switch and lockable aperture ring are designed to suit a variety of personal capture preferences, and the dust- and splash-resistant design also makes it suitable for shooting stills and video out in the elements.
The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art lens will be available for $1,349 through authorized retailers in the US in late June 2024.
Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras
A | Art
SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art
The world's first* F1.8 full-frame mirrorless zoom.
*as of June 2024 by SIGMA
Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH878-06, FRONT CAP LCF-82 III, REAR CAP LCR II
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
Launch date: June 20, 2024
* Product appearance and specifications are subject to change.
* This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
#SIGMA #SIGMA2845mmF18Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtZoom #SIGMADGDN
The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art is the world's first full-frame zoom lens with a constant maximum aperture of F1.8, delivering sharpness and clarity comparable to that of a prime lens.
Already the pioneer of unique, large-aperture zoom lenses including the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art and the SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art, SIGMA introduces another fast, portable and versatile tool to its Art lineup.
In addition to its unprecedented brightness, the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art delivers sharpness and clarity comparable to that of a prime lens throughout its entire zoom range. Also equipped with fast and precise AF and superior operability, this innovative optic turns a new page in the history of zoom lenses and their creative possibilities. It is a lens that will inspire full-frame filmmakers, while bringing unparalleled versatility to stills photographers.
* As of June 2024 by SIGMA
[Key Features]
1. The world's first* full-frame, F1.8 maximum aperture zoom lens
SIGMA has successfully developed the world's first full-frame zoom lens with a maximum aperture of F1.8. The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art incorporates an inner zoom mechanism, a minimum focusing distance of 30cm across the entire zoom range, and a filter size of f82mm. Despite its advanced feature-set, the lens weighs less than 1kg, making it a portable and versatile option for either hand-held shooting or a gimbal setup.
Constant maximum aperture of F1.8
Once a privilege reserved only for prime lenses, the maximum F1.8 aperture allows full-frame camera users to expose hand-held in low light and produce beautiful bokeh, while enjoying the flexibility of a zoom. This unique optical achievement has been created through SIGMA's accumulated optical design experience and advanced production technology at the company's sole production base in Aizu, Japan.
Practical and stable inner zoom
Employing an inner zoom mechanism, the overall length of the lens remains constant when the focal length or focus distance changes. This means the lens is easy to use when shooting hand-held, highly stable when mounted on a tripod or gimbal, and more resistant to dust and water contamination.
Consistent close focus
The minimum focusing distance is a constant 30cm across the entire zoom range, with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4 at the telephoto end, providing excellent close-up shooting capabilities. As well as offering precise focus in confined spaces, the lens can therefore be used close to a subject without affecting sharpness when using the zoom.
Premium build at a lighter weight
By rights, such a fast zoom should be big and heavy, but while the lens's rigidity and durability protect its sophisticated optical design, this is achieved at a weight of less than 1kg. What's more, this reliable photographic tool uses a versatile filter size of f82mm, meaning no compromise in portability or convenience.
2. Excellent optical performance comparable to that of a prime lens
With each optical aberration meticulously corrected throughout the zoom range, the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art rivals prime lenses for clarity and definition. Thanks to its advanced coatings, the lens produces clear images, even in backlit environments, while focus breathing is thoroughly suppressed, bringing expressive power to filmmakers and photographers.
The pinnacle of optical quality in a zoom
Through the effective arrangement of 5 SLD elements and 3 aspherical elements, aberrations are rigorously corrected. Axial chromatic aberration, which is particularly noticeable with large-aperture lenses, has been thoroughly suppressed, and the lens delivers clear images with minimal coloration, from sharply focused details to large, smooth bokeh.
Suppression of focus breathing
When using regular lenses, the angle-of-view can change as focus moves from near to far, affecting precise composition. With the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art this focus breathing is suppressed, enabling natural focus pulls when shooting video.
Minimal flare and ghosting
Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, have been largely eliminated using advanced simulation technology, ensuring the lens renders rich, high-contrast results in all conditions. In addition, in order to keep flare and ghosting to a minimum, the lens uses SIGMA's Nano Porous Coating and Super Multi-Layer Coating, producing superior resistance to backlighting and enabling clear, saturated images in all lighting conditions.
3. High-speed AF speed and innovative features
The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art delivers a range of professional features as impressive as its outstanding optical performance. With high-speed and adaptable AF, a durable weather-resistant structure, a de-clickable aperture ring, smooth manual focusing and on-barrel AFL buttons, all features combine to create a versatile photographic tool capable of responding to any situation.
Faster focus with a linear motor
The lens's AF mechanism uses an HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) to combine accelerated focusing speed with exquisite precision. And because the motor is near-silent it allows video recording without noise.
Precise and comfortable manual focusing
To deliver delicate and accurate manual focus, the lens employs a bi-wire driven focus ring with optimum torque setting, high resolution and an adjustable rotation angle between 90° and 720°*. This allows filmmakers to pull focus with organic smoothness, and photographers to focus manually with outstanding accuracy.
* Only for L-Mount, and with compatible cameras.
Aperture ring refinements
The lens is equipped with an aperture ring as well as an aperture ring click switch and an aperture ring lock switch, allowing for aperture operation suitable for various shooting situations.
Equipped with two AFL buttons
Located on the side and on top of the barrel, two customizable* AFL buttons can be easily reached in either horizontal or vertical shooting positions.
* Assignment of functions is limited to supported cameras and assignable functions vary depending on the camera.
Built to withstand the elements
In addition to a dust- and splash-resistant body*, the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and oil-repellent coating so that it can be used safely even in harsh outdoor environments.
* The product is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant but is not waterproof. When using the lens near water, etc., take care not to allow large amounts of water to splash on it. If water gets inside the lens, it may cause a major malfunction and render the lens unrepairable.
Includes locking petal-type hood
A petal-type hood is included to shield the lens from light. It has a locking mechanism for secure attachment and can be reversed for easier storage.
[ Additional Features ]
[ Key Specifications ]
The following specifications are for L-Mount.
Lens Construction: 18 elements in 15 groups
(5 SLD, 3 aspherical elements)
Angle of view: 75.4 - 51.3°
Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum aperture: F16
Minimum focusing distance: 30cm / 11.9 in.
Maximum magnification ratio: 1:4 at 45mm
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 87.8 x 151.4mm / 3.5 x 6.0 in.
Weight: 960g / 33.9 oz.
[ Accessories: Supplied ]
LENS HOOD LH878-06: 0085126 941444
FRONT CAP LCF-82 III: 0085126 930028
REAR CAP LCR II (for L-Mount): 0085126 937256
REAR CAP LCR II (for Sony E-mount): 0085126 929879
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
From Sony:
Sony Announces Major Update to Monitor & Control App with Expanded Compatibility and Enhanced Features
SAN DIEGO, CA – May 30, 2024. Sony Electronics announces the release of Monitor & Control (M&C) app version 2.0.0, an updated offering for Creators’ Cloud for individuals, bringing a suite of powerful new features and expanded compatibility for filmmakers and content creators. This latest update underscores Sony’s commitment to delivering innovative tools that enhance the creative process.
The “Monitor & Control" mobile app for visual content creators supports a myriad of Cinema Line and Alpha cameras, and enables wireless monitoring, precise exposure adjustment, and intuitive focus control on smartphones and tablets, effectively transforming these devices into wireless monitors with professional camera controls. Key features include real-time exposure monitoring, customizable histograms and waveforms, remote control of camera settings, and advanced color settings, providing creators with a more flexible workflow without needing a separate external monitor. It also offers intuitive focus controls, enabling touch focus, autofocus sensitivity adjustments, and Real-time Tracking directly from a mobile device. The on-screen control bar provides precise manual focus adjustments, with configurable settings for focus transition speeds, limits, and magnification.
Expanded Compatibility:
The M&C v2.0.0 app now supports a wider range of camera models, including BURANO, FX6, FX3, FX30, a1, a9 III, and a7S III. This expansion ensures more creators can benefit from the advanced monitoring and control capabilities offered by M&C.
Multi-Camera Monitoring:
Exclusive to iPad OS, the Multi-Camera Monitoring feature allows setting adjustments, control and display of up to four cameras. This function supports both wired and wireless connections through Wi-Fi routers or hotspots, providing flexibility for various shooting environments.
Key Improvements for BURANO and FX6:
Enhanced Monitoring Features:
User Interface Improvements:
Tool Menu Enhancements:
Users can select and customize up to three tools for their screen, including advanced adjustments for options like waveform, histogram, false color, zebra, de-squeeze, grid lines, and rotation.
The “Monitor & Control" mobile app is available for iOS and Android devices.1
Notes:
1 Some cameras will require latest firmware update. Please check the website for compatible camera software versions.
2 FX6 and BURANO
Through June 14th, Gigapixel 7 is on sale at Topaz Labs. Save $20.00.
From Tamron Americas:
TAMRON Announces Update of TAMRON Lens Utility™ and TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™
The lens customization software expands the possibilities of still photography and video shooting.
May 30, 2024, Commack, NY – TAMRON Americas, a leading provider of high-quality lenses, announces updates of the TAMRON Lens Utility, dedicated computer software, and the TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile, dedicated application for Android1 OS compatible smartphones and tablets. This update will provide additional functionality for greater convenience in the field and expands the possibilities of still and video photography. The software versions will change from the currently released Ver.2.0 to Ver.3.0, and the updated version will be available for download on May 30, 2024.
TAMRON Lens Utility and TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile Ver.3.0 overviews
October 2021 marked the release of TAMRON Lens Utility, a dedicated computer software that allows users to customize the functions of various TAMRON lenses according to their photographic and video shooting styles. In November 2022, we released TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile for Android OS, as we received many requests for the ability to customize lens functions in the field. In pursuit of even greater convenience, TAMRON has upgraded existing functions, added new functions for both the computer and mobile software, and added a new function exclusively for TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile. We plan to further expand and enhance functions to make video production more friendly to our customers.
Additional features with the Ver.3.0 update:
• Delay Time Start (upgrade to an existing feature)
This feature delays activation of a focus shift after the Focus Set Button has been pressed to activate. This is used to avoid shaking or button noises to be recorded when the Focus Set Button is pressed, and action starts.
* In addition to the Focus Set Button on the lens, this can also be used with the Remote Set Button with the TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile.
• Focus Stopper (new feature)
This feature fixes the focus range when manual focus is operated during video shooting. This will prevent the user from passing over the focal point.
* The stopper will automatically be released when switching to AF mode.
* In addition to the Focus Set Button on the lens, this feature could also be controlled from the Remote Set Button featured in the TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile.
• Astro Focus Lock (Astro FC-L) (new feature)
This feature fixes the focus on stars, which is useful for astrophotography. The focus is shifted to infinity and operation of the focus ring will be disabled (locked). Locking the focus ring prevents the focus from slipping through inadvertent operation.
* In addition to the Focus Set Button on the lens, this can also be used with the Remote Set Button with the TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile.
• Digital Follow Focus (DFF) (new dedicated feature only for TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile)
This feature allows you to fix a focus range between two points and perform focus operations from your smartphone screen, just like follow focus techniques. The direction of rotation of the aperture and focus rings, units indicated, and EV steps can also be changed.
*Aperture ring control and EV step configuration is not supported on Nikon Z mount lenses.
To learn more, please check the page introducing features of the TAMRON Lens Utility: https://www.tamron.com/global/consumer/soft/lensutility.html
1 Android is a trademark of Google LLC. Only compatible with Android devices fitted with USB Type-C ports.
* To use TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile, you will need to update the firmware of a compatible lens. To perform lens firmware updates, please use the TAMRON Lens Utility for computers.
* When using the mobile version, the dedicated TAMRON Connection Cable (USB Type-C to Type-C/ Model CC-350) is required.
* Information on lens firmware updates is posted to the support page: https://www.tamron.com/global/consumer/support/ as needed.
In addition, check a compatible lens list from the following link: https://www.tamron.com/jp/consumer/support/help/lensutility/en/compatible_lenses/
Minimally, the following Tamron lenses have firmware updates available:
20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD
28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2
35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD
50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
Worth browsing: Deals of the Week at B&H.
Just posted: Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens Review.
There is a lot to gain by giving up 20mm.
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
Until 11:59PM PST on 6/11/24, use coupon code MEMORYLANE24 to save 25% on everything at my favorite printer, Printique.
Print your graduation pictures. Update the 10-year-old photos hanging on your wall or sitting on your desk.
Expect outstanding quality.
Don't Miss the Memorial Day Specials at B&H.
Be prepared to narrow your interest by category as the entire list of deals is massive.
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
This just in from ProGrade Digital:
Refresh Pro is now Free
ProGrade DigitalProGrade Digital is now offering Refresh Pro as a free software product. Refresh Pro continues to stand out as a revolutionary product in the removable storage market. ProGrade Digital created this product to solve several issues with flash memory that no one was addressing. The first issue that Refresh Pro solves is that flash memory slows down over time. See our whitepaper on this topic here.
Refresh Pro sanitizes a card to bring it back to factory-fresh speed. This sanitize function is available in hard drives and some removable storage formats but ProGrade Digital created the ability to enable this function on all ProGrade Digital Memory cards. Refresh Pro can run this process in seconds compared to doing a secure format, level 2 on a Mac which can take considerably longer. ProGrade was also the first company to commercially make the Sanitize function available on SD cards through customization of its exclusive Firmware shipped with all Refresh Pro enabled SD cards.
The second issue that Refresh Pro solves is that flash memory wears out over time and Refresh Pro can check the long-term health of ProGrade Digital memory cards to enable the user to see how much useful life is left on their card before an important shoot.
Finally, Refresh Pro enables the ability to update the firmware on the ProGrade Digital memory card. Most people are familiar with updating the firmware on their camera and even on their lens. What many people don’t realize is that when new cameras are introduced to the market or as existing cameras have new codecs added, memory cards need to have their firmware updated to optimize the memory for these new functions to ensure 100% compatibility.
The technology development that has gone into Refresh Pro is extensive and in order to accomplish all the functions listed above, ProGrade Digital created customized firmware in the ProGrade Digital readers and cards that was necessary to function with the software to detect, alter and update the memory card. * Originally ProGrade Digital offered Refresh Pro as a subscription because of the extensive development that went into the software and the development that takes place on an on-going basis to update the software to work with the ever-changing pace of technology in the Mac and Windows computers, the new and existing cameras and the advances in memory cards.
*These functions require a ProGrade Digital memory card with the “R” logo on the label, a ProGrade Digital reader with the “R” logo on the box and Refresh Pro software.
Seeing the vital importance of all these functions for the hard-working creators, photographers, and filmmakers, ProGrade Digital is making Refresh Pro free for all customers.
For customers that purchased a Refresh Pro license within the last 12 months, ProGrade is proactively issuing a refund of their subscription. (ProGrade Digital will issue a refund to the original purchase method used for the purchase. Check your next statement for this credit.) Customers with an active license can update to Refresh Pro 4.0 in the Refresh Pro software by clicking on the “About” menu. Customers who had a license that expired are not eligible for this refund; they can download the free copy of Refresh Pro v4.0 from the ProGrade website here.
The ProGrade Digital Team
Get your ProGrade Digital cards and readers at B&H.
Just posted: Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens Review
Destined to be the next best-seller.
Please share!
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens from Lensrentals.
Highlighting some just-arriving gear in the B&H Used Department:
Category | What Just Arrived |
---|---|
Canon EOS Cameras | R3, R, RP |
Canon RF Lenses | 70-200 F4, 50 F1.8, 135 |
Sony Alpha Cameras | a9 III, a7S III, a7 IV, a6700 |
Sony FE Lenses | 24-70 II, 100-400, 135 |
Remember to use the B&H Payboo payment card to save the tax.
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
Also check out the In Cart Deal Limited Time Offers at B&H.
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
Worth browsing: Deals of the Week at B&H.
The lens being reviewed is usually mounted on a camera and ready for quick use, and on this day, the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art was that lens. This lens's high utility focal length range, wide aperture, fast and accurate AF, and superb optical quality made it a perfect choice for around-the-house use. Then Elliott came for a visit.
Elliott enjoys playing on the stairs, and it is hard to go wrong with a white background (and foreground), including with any color wardrobe.
I seldom appreciate obstacles in front of a person's face, even if they are strongly blurred. However, this image shows a scenario where that concept works.
A sharp eye matters for portraits, and the Sony Alpha 1's eye AF easily made that distinction despite the ballisters in the foreground. Elliott was moving fast, and this lens's fast AF was critical during this well-timed shutter release button mash.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Highlighting some just-arriving gear in the B&H Used Department:
Category | What Just Arrived |
---|---|
Canon EOS Cameras | R5, R5 C, R7 |
Canon RF Lenses | 24-105 F4, 100-500, Adapter |
Sony Alpha Cameras | a9 III, a7C R, a9 II, a7S III, a7 IV, ZV-E1, a6700 |
Sony FE Lenses | 16-35 F2.8 II, 70-200 F2.8 II, 200-600, 50 F1.2, 135 F1.8 |
Remember to use the B&H Payboo payment card to save the tax.
Learn more about the new Microsoft Surface Pro models at B&H.
Another milestone was reached, and I was given the green light for a graduation photo shoot. Getting ready took two hours longer than originally planned, but a couple of hours of sunlight still remained as we went out the door.
Just inside of shade is usually a great choice for portrait lighting, and we started with that option. The background is usually a large percentage of the composition, so selecting a good one is important, and large columns usually work great.
Columns this large are typically found at institutions, and they provide a sense of place that is valued in university graduation photos. More to that point, these columns were in front of the building where most of her classes were held, adding relevance to the composition.
While several other lenses were along and used, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens on an EOS R5 was my first choice for this shoot. This combination produces standout portraits at f/1.2, with impressive resolution and contrast, and the incredible 85mm f/1.2 background blur is especially advantageous.
The background blur reduces distracting lines of contrast behind the subject, especially for their head. In this case, the subject was aligned on the column to fully eliminate that issue.
I lost a few points for the edge of the graduation gown sleeve intersecting the line of the column's edge. A good photographer always has an excuse ready, so I'll blame feeling rushed for that one.
A larger version of this image is available here.