Canon and Sony News and What's New (Excluding Deals) (Page 5)

Sony's FY 2023 Q3 financial results are available on the Investor Relations page.

Presentation (track ET&S for the Entertainment, Technology & Services Segment (cameras), I&SS for the Imaging and Sensing Solutions segment)

Speech Transcript
Financial Statements
Supplementary Information
Webcast

A continued decrease in televisions sales has impacted the Entertainment, Technology & Services results. The words "camera" and "lens" do not appear in the report.

Hundreds of hours, thousands of manual changes, and hundreds of thousands of programmatic updates bring the site to the latest design iteration.

Updates include:

• A "Table of Contents" positioned near the top of most reviews facilitates jumping directly to a review section, "Image Quality" for example.
• A "Verdict", "Pros", and "Cons" are now the first review content in the most recently updated reviews (Canon RF and Sony FE lenses). Expect these features to be standard in future reviews, and I'll update older reviews if time permits.
• Comparison images in reviews are now optionally loaded, omitting a sometimes-significant download when not needed.
• Modest graphic design updates are in place.
• A myriad of under the covers changes, including significant speed optimizations.

Go to the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens review for a look at what has changed.

The sure-to-be epic solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 is now less than two months away. Are you ready?

A solar filter is required (except during totality), and B&H still has solar filters in stock.

The Alpine Astro Baader AstroSolar BDSF 3.8 Digital Solar Filter (review) is my first choice for this event. You can order this filter at B&H.

Canon USA's marketing department wants you to know:

The Mirrorless Data is Clear: Canon is #1

MELVILLE, NY, February 8, 2024 –Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions is proud to announce they have solidified the #1 mirrorless camera brand position for a third year in a row in 2023¹ and was the #1 mirrorless camera brand in the U.S. in 2023².

Since the introduction of the EOS R system, Canon has continued its innovative product developments with cameras such as the EOS R6 Mark II, EOS R5 C, EOS R5 and EOS R8. The robust rolodex of cameras has options for the professional photographer on the sidelines of world-class sporting events, to portrait or wedding photographers looking to capture a moment of a lifetime and the family photographer who is documenting the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Canon mirrorless cameras have a place in the gear bags of any visual storyteller looking for high-quality images and video.

“The needs of our customers have always been at the forefront of our business at Canon and it’s why we have worked so hard to maintain a number one position within the industry,” said Brian Mahar, senior vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “I am proud of our team for not only achieving this great success, but for also empowering our visual storytellers.”

“Canon mirrorless cameras have impacted my business’s bottom line as well as my client experience. With the advancement of technology, I’m able to concentrate more on client interaction and higher quality production. I’ve seen an enhancement in my photography, my profit and client satisfaction.” Vanessa Joy, Canon Explorer of Light and award-winning wedding and brand photographer # # #

1 Source: Circana, Retail Tracking Service, U.S. unit sales, 12 months ending December 2021, 2022, and 2023

2 Source: Circana, Retail Tracking Service, U.S. unit sales, 12 months ending December 2023

Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens firmware update version 06 is available for download.

Firmware Version 06 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Adds support for continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking up to a maximum of 120 images/second when used with the ILCE-9M3 camera body
2. Fixes an issue where, after updating to Ver. 04, the AF (autofocus) and MF (manual focus) do not work after setting the camera shooting mode to S&Q mode or 4K video mode

Get the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens at B&H.

Tamron's FY2023 Financial Results: "Achieved a new record of operating income".

"Our main photographic products business achieved high growth with a substantial improvement in profitability."

Tamron plans to introduce 6 new lens models in 2024, up from 5 in 2022 and 2023.

The Sony a9 III is in stock at B&H, Adorama, Amazon, and WEX.

Rent the Sony Alpha 9 III from Lensrentals.

Updated: Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens Review.

I promised to add sample images to this review. You will find them in the focal length range discussion.

Also, four 800mm f/9 100% crops showing distant bird feather detail are now available in the image quality discussion. Remember that browsers may auto enlarge images on high resolution displays, reducing the sharpness appearance.

Please share!

Order the Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

"Capture One Pro (16.3.5) is a service release that includes support for a new camera [Sony a9 III] and bug fixes."

Get the full details of this update in the release notes.

Get Capture One at B&H.

One of the decision factors between the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z and the RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM is the strength of the background blur they can create. So, I wanted to illustrate that difference.

Head over to the just updated RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z review to see the background blur difference between 105mm f/2.8 and f/4 created using the f/2.8 lens. View both the full-size reduced and 100% crop image comparisons.

The answer is yes.

The Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens is in stock at B&H.

Learn more about this incredible lens: Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens Review.

Canon EOS C500 Mark II firmware update version 1.1.0.1 is available for download (Canon USA).

Firmware Version 1.1.0.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixes an issue, in which the custom picture files on an SD card cannot be read after having updated the firmware to Version 1.0.9.1.

Think Tank Photo just introduced the updated Mirrorless Mover Shoulder Bag series. Featured in this update are:

• Four new and exclusive colors
• Increased front pocket volume with added organization features
• Additional adjustable dividers for a more customizable fit

The new Mirrorless Mover Shoulder Bag series is available now at thinktankphoto.com

Shop through the site's affiliate link and receive a free Think Tank product and free U.S. shipping with every purchase over $50.

Canon has added third quarter financial results to the Investor Relations page.

Presentation Material
Results
Supplementary Data
Presentation Material and Speech Summary

Summary Level Notes and Quotes from the Presentation Material

"Global economic slowdown also impacted our markets, strengthening trends of delayed purchasing and inventory reduction."

"Price competition surrounding printers intensified as competitor supply shortages are alleviated."

"Parts shortage and logistical constraints resolved, progress made in cost reduction"

"Uncertainty surrounding global economy remains high, pace of economy growth assumed slower than last year"

2023 produced +3.7% net sales, +7.7% gross profit, +8.4% net income vs. 2022.

The 2024 forecast is +4.0% net sales, +4.9% gross profit, +15.3% net income vs. 2023.

Imaging System Relevant Notes from the Presentation Material

2023 produced +7.2% net sales (+6.8% cameras), +15.0% operating profit vs. 2022.

The 2024 forecast is +4.5% net sales (+0.9% cameras), +1.1% operating profit vs. 2023.

Buy your Canon cameras, lens, and accessories at B&H.

Introducing: Nextorage CFexpress Type B and SDXC Memory Cards.

Add Nextorage to your preferred memory card trusted brand short list.

Support this site by ordering the Nextorage CFexpress Type B and SDXC Memory Cards (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries)

Please share!

Go big! From Canon USA:

Achieve Exquisite Prints for Photo and Fine Art with Three New imagePROGRAF PRO Series Models

New inkjet printers with LUCIA PRO II ink designed to deliver an expanded dark area gamut, excellent light resistance and improved scratch resistance over previous models

MELVILLE, N.Y., January 25, 2024 – A trio of 11-color plus chroma optimizer inkjet models for the large-format imagePROGRAF Series, the new imagePROGRAF 60-inch PRO-6600, 44-inch PRO-4600 and 24-inch PRO-2600 models, were announced today by Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions.

Designed for photography and fine art, the new imagePROGRAF PRO line features the newly developed LUCIA PRO II¹ pigment ink designed to help improve the image quality from previous models while also enhancing resistance to light. Improved black density on art paper was achieved by changing the formulation and material of matte black ink, the color gamut of the dark region was expanded by the adoption of a newly designed image table. The new ink set can also work to help produce and preserve prints as a crystalline wax has been added to the ink, giving the printed surface better resistance to abrasion-caused scratches on glossy and semi-glossy media. The reformulated Chroma Optimizer is designed to give the surface a clear coat of transparent ink that helps suppress bronze phenomena and helps reduce uneven glossiness.

“The additions of the three printers to the imagePROGRAF Series can be very helpful in regard to delivering exquisite print and impeccable details while providing excellent light resistance,” said Larry Chen, a professional car and automotive photographer and a Canon Explorer of Light since 2020. “As a photographer and imaging professional, producing the highest quality images is the upmost importance to me and my business. The PRO models can favorably recreate expressive prints while also reproducing a wide color gamut range that helps produce excellent image quality in the imagePROGRAF series.”

The new series includes a newly developed ink sensing system that periodically monitors ink ejection condition and optimizes ink landing position by detecting deterioration of ejecting condition and automatically performing alignment adjustment. The intelligent media handling function automatically detects the paper type, width and estimated remaining amount of paper, plus it completes the paper feeding process in a shorter time than previous models. The automation of this process will help ensure stable operations even in the absence of skilled or experienced personnel. The addition of LED interior lights allows users to preview prints and semi-translucent ink tank covers allows users to monitor ink tank status.

“The imagePROGRAF series has been recognized in the past many times for its outstanding performance and versatility, and this announcement continues to show our company’s on-going commitment to empowering our customers with the tools and capabilities needed to produce the high-quality content for projects with photography and fine arts,” said Shinichi "Sam" Yoshida, executive vice president and general manager of Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Additionally, Canon is launching two new fine art papers, Fine Art Etching 315 gsm, which enables fine photographic art prints that features deep black colors. Also launching is a Fine Art Baryta 310 gsm which includes a 100 percent barium sulfate (baryta) layer with elegant smooth finishes that are ideal for images with deep black and rich colors, dark room prints, and fine photographic reproductions.

Canon is proud to announce the series has earned an EPEAT Gold designation as a product that has met the most demanding set of criteria for sustainability leadership in electronics⁴. The new models contribute to companies commitment to sustainability by reducing the use of polystyrene packing materials, including 100 percent EPS free packaging in the case of the imagePROGRAF PRO-2600³. Final assembly and production for the printers is carried out at a production center in which 100% of the electricity used comes from renewable energy.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. will have the imagePROGRAF PRO-4600 and PRO-2600 models on hand at Imaging USA, the Professional Photographers of America convention, from Jan. 28-30 in Louisville, Kentucky. The Canon booth will also have new camera lenses such as the RF24-105 F2.8 L IS USM and the RF10-20 F4 L IS STM on display, along with the EOS R5 and EOS R6 II, demonstrating Canon’s breadth of offerings for printing and imaging.

Orders

imagePROGRAF PRO Series Printer at B&H.

# # #

¹ Newly developed pigment inks are 11 out of the 12 inks installed. Only matte black uses same ink as imagePROGRAF GP-4000/2000.

² When using Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum. Predicted value calculated in accordance with the indoor light resistance test method and life evaluation criteria of the digital color photographic print image preservation evaluation method (JEITA CP-3901B) published by JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).

³ PRO-6600 reduced by 58.9% and PRO-4600 by 89.5%.

⁴ An environmental evaluation system established by the Green Electronics Council (GEC), an NPO in the United States, for the purpose of market development and promotion of environmentally friendly products.

This just in from ProGrade Digital:

PROGRADE DIGITAL ANNOUNCES NEW CFEXPRESS 2.0 TYPE A GOLD LINE MEMORY CARDS

The Addition of the Gold Line CFexpress 2.0 Type A 240GB and 480GB Memory Cards Provide the Optimal Capacity for RAW Cinema-Level Video Shooting Applications

San Jose, CA January 19, 2024, 8:00 am PT — ProGrade Digital, Inc., founded with a mission to provide the highest quality professional grade digital memory cards and workflow solutions, announces a new CFexpress™ Type A Gold-class memory cards in a 240GB and 480GB capacity. This new Gold line features the same industry-leading quality as the current ProGrade CFexpress 2.0 Type A Cobalt 160GB memory card. The Gold line has a VPG 200 rating and has an NVME host interface with PCIe Gen3 X1 interconnect. ProGrade Digital’s CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold cards are fully compliant with the CFexpress 2.0 specification and provide read speeds of up to 900MB/s, burst write speeds of up to 800MB/s, and sustained write speeds of 600MB/s – ideally suited for the highest-resolution cinema-grade video capture applications. When combined with a ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A / SDXC Dual-Slot USB 3.2 Gen 2 card reader (PG09) they provide a complete solution for transferring images and video files, enabling improvement to your digital imaging workflow.

“The introduction of our new CFexpress Type A, Gold line of memory cards - with capacities of 240GB and 480GB - provide sweet-spot storage levels and pricing to meet the needs of a wide range of still and video shooters,” said Josh Brewer, Product Manager of ProGrade Digital. “This new range of cards for ProGrade combines the necessary VPG 200 levels of video performance, with NAND technology optimized for great value and reliability.”

ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold Memory Cards:

• Maximum read speed up to 900MB/s
• Burst write speed up to 800MB/s
• Sustained write speed of 600MB/s
• Minimum sustained write speed 200MB/s
• CFexpress 2.0
• Capacity: 240GB and 480GB
• MSRP: $259.99, and $449.99 respectively

CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold Delivers:

• Fully compliant with CompactFlash™ Association 2.0 specification
• NVMe host interface with PCIe Gen3 X1 interconnect
• Thermal throttling protects the card from overheating
• Laser etched unique serial numbering for the tracking of key components and manufacturing data for the highest quality control
• Temperature ranges: operating 14°F to 158°F/ -10°C to 70°C; storage 10°F to 160°F/ -12°C to 72°C
• Packaging: Biodegradable fiber tray
• Refresh Pro ready*
• X-ray proof and shock-proof
• 3-year warranty

Orders

Get the ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold Memory Cards at B&H.

Check out the just-announced Godox V1Pro Flash, featuring up to 100 continuous shots at full power, at B&H.

Sony has announced plans for new firmware updates (though the wait is long):

Sony Electronics Announces New Firmware Updates to Cinema Line Cameras

Plans Include Updates to Cinema Line Cameras: FX30, FX3 and FX6

SAN DIEGO – Jan. 17, 2024 – Sony Electronics announces upcoming updates for the FX6, FX3 and FX30 cinema cameras at the BSC Expo 2024 in London, exhibiting its extensive range of filmmaking technology. The new firmware updates showcase Sony’s commitment to its cinema line.

The ILME-FX6 ver.5.0 firmware update is expected from May 2024 or later and will include:

• The addition of 1.5x de-squeeze function for anamorphic lenses
• Integrated high-quality 3D LUT processes inspired by the VENICE cinema camera, which allows for more accurate color processing
• Monitor & Control App v2.0 features (ex. Waveform, False color)
• Breathing Compensation Expansion: More lenses will be supported including 100-400 GM and the 200-600 G lenses

The firmware update for FX3 and FX30 is expected from September 2024 or later and will include:

• Addition of Shutter Angle: Users will be able to choose from both Shutter Speed/Shutter Angle similar to what is available with the FX6
• Ability to add clip flags to mark shots
• SRT/RTMP/RTMPS support for live streaming via the Creator’s App

The firmware updates will be available free of charge starting in May 2024 for the FX6 ver.5.0 and the FX30/FX3 updates will be available starting in about September 2024.

DJI has announced a new wireless mic system:

DJI Mic 2: Elevating Professional Audio Recording Excellence

with Unparalleled Quality, User-Centric Design, and Exceptional Stability

Jan 17, 2024 – DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announced the launch of the new DJI Mic 2, setting a new benchmark in audio recording solutions. With DJI Mic 2, creators can expect an exceptional experience, marked by high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and remarkable stability.

"DJI Mic 2 represents a leap forward in audio recording technology. We've combined high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and noteworthy stability to empower content creators with the tools they need to capture extraordinary audio, no matter where their creativity takes them," said Paul Pan, Senior Product Line Manager at DJI.

Pro Audio Recording Functions in Pocket-Size

At the heart of DJI Mic 2 lies the promise of capturing brilliance in different sounds. It's equipped with omnidirectional recording capabilities, thoughtfully optimized for vocal clarity, ensuring that the audio content of users shines in various scenarios. Whether content creators are producing engaging vlogs, conducting insightful interviews, or recording in diverse environments, DJI Mic 2 guarantees that their audio is of high quality.

DJI Mic 2 also features intelligent noise-canceling technology1, a game-changer for content creators working in bustling urban areas or crowded rooms. This innovative feature effectively reduces environmental noise, delivering clear vocals and uninterrupted audio recordings. Regarding windy or fast-moving scenarios, DJI Mic 2 has included windscreen to lower wind noise, ensuring clean sound capture in windy outdoor scenarios.

As an added layer of protection for the user's audio, DJI Mic 2 offers the Safety Track feature. It allows content creators to record a second track at -6dB alongside the primary audio track, safeguarding against unexpected audio level spikes. Even in the midst of audibly complicated environments such as rock concerts, DJI Mic 2 delivers balanced results with remarkable ease.

User-Friendly Design for a Seamless and Intuitive Experience

DJI Mic 2 is not just developed with technical advancement, but also designed with users in mind. Its sleek and smart aesthetic is elevated by a premium metal charging case that not only has a minimalistic appearance but also offers a newly added locking latch, which provides a secure and reliable solution to prevent accidental drops for peace of mind during use.

To suit the style and preferences of different users, DJI Mic 2 is available in two transmitter colors: Shadow Black and Pearl White2. Shadow Black adds a discreet, high-tech appearance to the Mic 2 setup, while Pearl White offers an elegant alternative for those seeking a light-tone colorway.

When it comes to getting started, DJI Mic 2 simplifies the process. The system is ready to use anytime, anywhere. Users can just open the charging case, and DJI Mic 2 will then spring to life, automatically pairing the receiver and transmitters while charging them. Additionally, DJI Mic 2 can be seamlessly connected to DJI Osmo Action 4, DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and smartphone devices3 via Bluetooth, while also offering hassle-free compatibility with various recording devices through USB-C, Lightning Adapters, as well as 3.5mm TRS analog output.

DJI Mic 2 also puts control at the fingertips of the user with its effortless touchscreen operation. A 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen paired with a precision dial provides quick access to critical information. Content creators will be able to adjust volume, gain, brightness, and more with ease, achieving the optimal audio setup smoothly.

With magnetic attachment for quick concealment, the transmitters feature a user-friendly clip-on design that simplifies the process of attaching them to clothing. DJI Mic 2 even offers dual-channel recording, allowing content creators to capture audio from two sources simultaneously, simplifying multi-source recording and enhancing efficiency during post-production.

To further expand the creative horizons of the user, DJI offers practical accessories4 such as the DJI Lavalier Mic and DJI Mic 2 Charging Case.

Stability and Reliability in Every Recording

Stability is a hallmark of DJI Mic 2, ensuring that the audio recordings of the user are consistently outstanding. DJI Mic 2 is equipped with 8GB of internal storage per transmitter, offering up to 14 hours of uncompressed 48kHz 24-bit audio recording5. This ensures that content creators can record for extended periods without worrying about storage constraints.

DJI Mic 2 stands out significantly due to its cutting-edge 32-bit float internal recording6 capability. This feature not only delivers high-quality recording but also adapts seamlessly to complex sound environments, capturing nuances of sounds, from quiet whispers to booming decibel levels. This level of flexibility provides greater reliability in erratic noise scenarios and offers more options for post-production fine-tuning.

When it comes to range and battery life, DJI Mic 2 shines. It offers an impressive maximum audio transmission range of up to 250 meters7 (820 ft.) in open, unobstructed environments without interference. This range caters to common scenarios such as live streaming, studio recording, and outdoor recording. Plus, each transmitter and receiver has a remarkable 6-hour operating time8, which can be extended to a generous 18 hours with the charging case, making it perfect for extended content creation sessions.

Price and Availability

The DJI Mic 2 is available to order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, with shipping starting today, in the following configurations:

The DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) retails for $349, and includes a DJI Mic 2 Receiver, two DJI Mic 2 Transmitters (Shadow Black), a DJI Mic 2 Charging Case, DJI Mic 2 Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Type-C), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Lightning), two DJI Mic 2 Windscreens, two DJI Mic 2 Clip Magnets, a DJI Mic USB-C Charging Cable and a DJI Mic 2 Carrying Bag.

The DJI Mic 2 (1 TX + 1 RX) retails for $219, and includes a DJI Mic 2 Receiver, a DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Shadow Black), a DJI Mic 2 Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Type-C), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Lightning), a DJI Mic 2 Windscreen, a DJI Mic 2 Clip Magnet, a DJI Mic Splitter Charging Cable, and a DJI Mic 2 Carrying Pouch. The DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Shadow Black) and DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Pearl White) can also be purchased separately at $99 each. The DJI Lavalier Mic retails at $39 and DJI Mic 2 Charging Case retails at $69.

Orders

Get the DJI Mic 2 at B&H or Adorama.

Footnotes:

1. Intelligent noise canceling of DJI Mic 2 cannot be enabled when the transmitter is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

2. Both the DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) combo and the DJI Mic 2 (1 TX + 1 RX) combo come with transmitter(s) in Shadow Black. DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Pearl White) is sold separately.

3. The transmitter needs to be worked with third-party video recording software when connected to smartphones via Bluetooth. For more details on compatibility, refer to the product page on the official DJI website.

4. Sold Separately.

5. Each transmitter has 8 GB of internal storage to store up to 14 hours of uncompressed 48kHz 24-bit audio.

6. Internal recording of DJI Mic 2 cannot be used when the transmitter is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

7. Measured with FCC compliance in an unobstructed environment without interference (160 m under CE). This data is for reference only. Actual transmission distance may vary depending on the environment.

8. Tested with both transmitters connected to the receiver, without backup recording, and the receiver connected to a camera with the Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS).