Canon and Sony News for Sep 2014 (Page 5)

From the Adobe Photoshop YouTube Channel:

Photoshop Principal Product Manager Bryan O'Neil Hughes shows how to use the DNG Profile Editor to adjust color and light.

Adobe offers Photoshop CC & Lightroom 5 for $9.99 per month.

If you've ever shot a wedding with multiple cameras, you probably know how important it is to synchronize the time between your various cameras. If your cameras are out of sync by only a few minutes, the timeline of events your images show (when sorted by time captured) can be jumbled and confusing.

The solution? Use EOS Utility to synchronize your cameras' times with the time of your computer.

Directions for EOS Utility 2.14.1 (EOS Rebel, xxD, 7D, 5D Mark II)

1. Connect the camera to your computer using the USB cord.
2. If EOS Utility does not automatically start, open the program.
3. Click "Camera Settings/Remote Shooting"
4. Click on the Setup Menu Icon (third from left, below shooting details window).
5. Click "Date/Time/Zone," verify settings and click the "From PC" button.

Directions for EOS Utility 3.0.0 (6D, 5D Mark III, 1D-X, 1D-C)

1. Connect the camera to your computer using the USB cord.
2. If EOS Utility does not automatically start, open the program.
3. Click "Date/Time/Zone Setting," verify settings and click the "From PC" button.

There is also an option to automatically synchronize the camera's time with the PC whenever it's connected. You can find that option in the EOS Utility Preferences window.

From the Canon Professional Network:

"During a career spanning over a quarter of a century thus far Marc Aspland has gained an international reputation as one of the world’s finest sports photographers, with a style all of his own. He has been Chief Sports Photographer of The Times newspaper in London since the late 1990s but it is only now that many of his most famous images have been brought together in his new, and first-ever, book ‘The Art of Sports Photography’. CPN writer Mark Alexander spoke to Marc Aspland about what it took to create the magical images in the book and his unique approach to shooting sports."

From Tamron:

XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) element and LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements deployed in the front group ensures outstanding image depicting performance. Proprietary eBAND coating coupled with improved BBAR coating efficiently reduces ghosting and flare inherent to wideangle focal lengths to an absolute minimum.

September 12, 2014, Saitama, Japan. - Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono), a leading manufacturer of precision optics, announces development of a new ultra-wideangle zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras with a fast F/2.8 aperture and VC (Vibration Compensation), the world's first in its category. The price and launch date are to be determined. The lens will be showcased at the Tamron booth at Photokina 2014, September 16- 21, 2014 in Cologne, Germany (Photokina Booth Number:Hall 4.2 D10 - E19).

Since 2012, Tamron has been expanding its lineup of interchangeable lenses for 35mm full-frame DSLR cameras. SP 24-70mm F/2.8 was the first in the series, being integrated with VC, followed by the 70-200mm F/2.8, 90mm F/2.8 Macro, and 150-600mm F/5-6.3. The array of those new lenses have been highly acclaimed among the photo enthusiasts and working pros around the globe. To address the needs for more towards the wider angular field, Tamron spearheaded the development of SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD, a fast ultra-wideangle zoom lens with the image stabilization feature, setting itself apart from the rest of zooms in this category.

Product Highlights

• Superb image quality and performance - With an optical construction of 18 elements in 13 groups, inclusive of XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) element placed at the front group and several LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements in the system, aberrations such as geometrical distortion and lateral color are efficiently compensated for enabling the zoom lens to deliver outstanding image quality throughout the entire range from corner to corner.
• Prominent competence of VC when shooting night scenes and under low light conditions - Recognizing the needs for image stabilization capability on a wideangle lens voiced by a number of photographers, especially for a full-frame, fast F/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom lens category, VC is tuned for providing discernible competence throughout the entire zoom range. The feature enhances image depicting capabilities for shooting night scenes and under low light conditions.
• Benefit of the eBAND and the improved BBAR coatings - Tamron's acclaimed BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coating is further refined to render uniformity in transmissivity across the critical bandwidths. Coupled with the eBAND coating, ghosting and flare typically observed on ultra-wideangle lenses are efficiently eliminated, resulting in crisper and crystal-clear images.
• Fluorine coating on the front element, Tamron's first - Due to the large diameter and the prominent convex profile of the front element, it is not practical to deploy a protective filter. For the first time, a fluorine coating is applied to the front element, which repels water or any type of dirt, while making it easier to remove such smudge when contaminated.
• Fascinating background "bokeh" with the fast maximum aperture of F/2.8 - Natural and smooth blur on the subject background enhances depictive capabilities of wide-angle photography when a subject is located in the close distance. The 9-blade diaphragm construction retains a near-circular aperture opening even when stopped down by two steps from its full open position and delivers ideal bokeh effects.
• Easy-to-use autofocus - Speed of autofocus and control accuracy are further improved. USD[4] (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) delivers tack-sharp images due to the high torque and fast response speed with least amount of lag time, yet with extremely low acoustic noise. Equipped with a full-time manual focus mechanism, fine focus adjustments are enabled without exiting from the AF mode.
• Comes with "SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron", RAW image processing software customized for Tamron SP lenses - The SILKYPIX Developer Studio software provides an added feature to generate high-quality images from RAW data, while performing adjustments to reflect a personal style and a taste of the photographer. These include white balance, color, sharpness, and the tonal curves recorded by digital cameras.
• The SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron provides a range of functions, in addition to the basic adjustment capabilities, such as correcting aberrations (lateral color, distortion, relative illumination fall-off) referring to the optical design data. Optimal use with Tamron's SP series lenses - renowned for their high-depiction capabilities - delivers images that meet photographers' most exacting demands.

Specifications:

From Sigma:

Hyper-telephoto zoom lenses added to both Sports and Contemporary Global Vision lines

RONKONKOMA, N.Y — September 12, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, has announced two new 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM high-performance, hyper-telephoto zoom lenses that celebrate significant optical and build advancements. The two lens designs vary in size and use, and add to the company’s impressive roster of Contemporary and Sports lenses in the Global Vision lineup.

The 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports delivers enhanced, professional-grade optics and greater durability for challenging, high-action photographic situations. The 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary is a versatile lens that offers similar performance in a more compact and portable design. Pricing and availability of these lenses are not yet available.

Both versions of the 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM feature dust and splash-proof features, as well as new water and oil-repellent coating on the front and rear lenses. They boast an updated Optical Stabilizer (OS) that features an accelerometer for improved vertical and horizontal panning, essential for bird, wildlife and motor sports photography. Two new switches were added for ease-of-use, including a new zoom lock switch capable of locking at any focal distance and a Manual Override (MO) switch for improved control of focusing performance. An enhanced auto focus (AF) algorithm and Hyper Sonic Motor ensure quiet and fast AF. The lenses are compatible with Sigma’s newly announced lineup of Global Vision teleconverters, which are effective up to F/8.

“The Global Vision Art, Sports and Contemporary lines were developed to help photographers identify lenses that are best suited to their specific photography and these two lenses are perfect examples of that intent,” Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “While they share a focal length and many outstanding features, these lenses are designed with different photographers in mind. Both high-performance lenses, one is for the professional-grade action shooter; the other for photographers looking for high performance and portability.”

The 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports offers the highest level of performance and durability with a splash and dust proof construction, and features dimensions of 4.8 inches by 11.4 inches, with a weight of 100.9 ounces. It contains 24 lens elements in 16 groups – including two FLD and three SLD glass elements – with a minimum aperture of F/22 and minimum focusing distance of 102.4 inches. Its maximum magnification ratio is also 1:5. The Sports lens will be available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts.

The 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens is the first hyper-telephoto zoom lens from the Global Vision Contemporary line, and will enable easy handling with a smaller build than its Sports counterpart. It is equipped with a splash and dust proof mount, and while the weight of the lens is still to be determined, its dimensions will be 4.1 inches by 10.2 inches. The lens will feature 20 elements in 14 groups – including one FLD and three SLD glass elements – with a minimum aperture of F/22 and minimum focusing distance of 110.2 inches. Its maximum magnification ratio is 1:5. It will be available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon and Sony mounts.

All of Sigma’s Global Vision lenses are compatible with the company’s USB dock and Mount Conversion Service, and undergo individual testing before being shipped. Using the USB Dock allows for advanced customization of AF speed, OS viewing modes, focus limiter and firmware updates. Every Sigma Global Vision lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary “A1” MTF measuring system prior to shipping to ensure optimal performance and image quality.

The company will be exhibiting at the 2014 Photokina in Cologne, Germany, later this month. The latest lenses from the Global Vision lineup will be on display at the event and attendees are invited to stop by booth #B20/C29 in Hall 4.2.

Preorder Opportunities:

Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports Lens - B&H
Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens - B&H

From Sigma:

New range in Sigma’s lineup offers optimized optics and stabilization with optional, add-on close-up lens for macro-zoom capability

RONKONKOMA, N.Y — September 12, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, is adding a new lens to its Global Vision Contemporary category with today’s announcement of the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM. The lens will become available in October for the street price of $579.00.

Designed exclusively for APS-C camera sensors, the new 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM features a 16.6x high-ratio zoom lens which equates to a 27-450mm zoom range. It incorporates four “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements, which have performance equal to flourite, in addition to one Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass element. This enables the lens to minimize the chromatic aberration, especially toward the telephoto-end, and provide clear image quality with high color fidelity. Also, this lens comes with a newly developed optical stabilization (OS) system, ensuring better compensation.

“We expect the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM to be yet another standout in our Global Vision lineup, and a perfect option for anyone looking to carry minimal equipment and still be able to capture breathtaking images” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “It will be a compact and affordable, high-performance, all-in-one lens that offers wide-angle to telephoto versatility and the very unique macro-zoom capability for close-ups. It’s perfect for all photographic needs – especially for those purchasing this product as their first time interchangeable lens.”

The lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 15 inches, with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3. To enhance the macro capabilities of the lens, Sigma Corporation has also designed a dedicated close-up AML72-01 lens that pairs with the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 to offer a maximum magnification ratio 1:2 and changeable angles of view. Even when this close-up lens is attached, the image taken at maximum magnification ratio, at 300mm, infinity, shows very little difference in modulation transfer function (MTF). This close-up lens will be sold separately for $55 and will also be available in October.

The 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM incorporates a bigger and newly developed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) that ensures high speed and quiet AF. Additionally the Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting, to provide the user with sharp and high contrast images.

The lens will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Canon, Pentax and Sony mounts; Pentax and Sony mounts will not offer OS.

The 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM is compatible with Sigma’s USB dock, allowing photographers to update the lens’ firmware and change focus parameters using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service. Sigma remains one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely made in Japan. Moreover, all products, including the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM was designed to surpass the required quality inspection of every Global Vision lens with Sigma’s own modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system to create a new optical standard to align with the high-spec cameras on today’s market.

The company will be exhibiting at the 2014 Photokina in Cologne, Germany, later this month. The latest lenses from the Global Vision lineup will be on display at the event and attendees are invited to stop by booth #B20/C29 in Hall 4.2.

B&H has the Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM Contemporary available for preorder.

From Sigma:

New filters and teleconverters help photographers maximize optical performance and use of lenses

RONKONKOMA, N.Y— September 12, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced its first line of Global Vision accessories.

Building on the exceptional quality and sleek design of Sigma’s popular Global Vision lenses, the company will now offer two new teleconverters offering magnifications of 1.4x and 2x, respectively, and four new lens filter types, including three water repellent (WR) models.

“The announcement of these new accessories reaffirms our commitment to providing photographers with the highest quality tools they need to experience the amazing photographic details of our lenses,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America.

Teleconverters: TC-1401 and TC-2001

The teleconverters TC-1401 and TC-2001 are developed as dedicated attachments for Sigma Global Vision lenses. By mounting it in between a telephoto lens and a camera, the TC-1401 and TC-2001 will magnify a lens’ focal length by 1.4 and 2 times, respectively. Both models now incorporate Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements, the TC-1401 with 1 and the TC-2001 with 2 SLD elements, which offer excellent aberration correction and maintain the exceptional image quality of the original lens. The TC-1401 will be sold for the street price of $349, and the TC-2001 will be sold for $399. Availability is still yet to be announced for both teleconverters.

The teleconverters come packed with additional special features – its power distribution is designed for Sigma lenses of large diameter. Without affecting the lens performance, these options offer stable image quality through the zoom at every focal length and on the corners of the frame. Additionally, the tele converters are designed for high durability – being both dust and splash-proof. These new teleconverters are capable of shooting effective AF at F8, if the camera can do so.

Filter lineups: WR Protector, Protector, WR UV Filter, WR Circular PL Filter

With the new Global Vision lens filters, Sigma will now offer 13 filter size options in four new lineups. These filters offer several new features that enable photographers to maximize the optical performance of Sigma’s lenses in various conditions. The filters will be available for purchase in October.

These filters have a new design that suits the high optical performance of all new Global Vision products to prevent vignetting or the decrease in peripheral light quantities especially when the thinner wide type filters are used with Sigma lenses. By incorporating Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating, the filter reduces flare and hosting; black rimmed glass eliminates unnecessary internal reflections, and provides high performance for both digital cameras and film cameras. In addition, to ensure versatility, Sigma’s WR filters feature excellent water and oil repellent as well as an antistatic function, and the two types of “Protector” can protect the lens surface effectively.

The four line ups include:

• WR Protector (Water-repellent, antistatic type) and Protector (normal type): The protector is developed to protect the lens surface from dirt and dust as well as scratches. It is an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so it does not affect color reproduction.
• WR UV Filter (UV water-repellent, antistatic type): UV filter prevents the bluish tone that generates by absorbing ultraviolet rays. It is effective in most situations, such as landscape, portrait and general photography on a sunny day.
• WR Circular PL Filter (PL water-repellent, antistatic type): Circular PL filter removes the reflection of water surface and glass windows, and increases the contrast in landscape photography.

The company will be exhibiting at 2014 Photokina in Cologne, Germany, where its Global Vision lenses will be on display. Attendees are invited to stop by booth #B20/C29 in Hall 4.2.

Preorder Opportunties:

Sigma TC-1401 Teleconverter - B&H
Sigma TC-2001 Teleconverter - B&H

From Nikon USA:

Along With the D750, Nikon Announces Attractive New Offerings for Advanced Enthusiast and Professional Photographers, Including the SB-500 Speedlight and AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED Lens

September 12, 2014 MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the D750, the D-SLR that provides adept enthusiasts with the powerful combination of pro-caliber photo and video features with FX-format image quality. The new D750 represents a leap forward for this camera segment, inheriting some of the best elements from Nikon’s revered full-frame professional cameras, with new and refined features aimed at sparking creativity and sharing with built-in Wi-Fi. Additionally, Nikon has also announced the SB-500, a versatile yet compact multimedia Speedlight, and Nikon’s fastest ultra wide-angle lens yet, the new AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED. These new products easily supplement a professional’s kit, while making it more appealing than ever for enthusiasts to discover the intense and immersive image quality that only an FX-format sensor can offer.

“The Nikon D750 is the camera many have been waiting for; never before has this level of functionality and vast feature set been offered in a full frame D-SLR, at such an attractive price,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “These new products, including the SB-500 Speedlight and 20mm f/1.8 lens are meant to directly address those who care about image quality and want the gear that will help drive their passion to the next level.”

Serious Features for Advanced Shooters

The new Nikon D750 provides professional-level features and performance in a durable, lightweight body. Whether the user is an advanced enthusiast or seasoned pro in need of a second body, the D750 easily complements any photographic discipline with a pro-caliber capability.

Sharp landscapes and portraits are simple with Nikon’s advanced 51-point AF system, the same used on Nikon’s high-end D-SLRs. The Advanced Multi-Cam 3500-FX II AF focus system also easily tracks fast moving wildlife or sports, even at the rapid, high-speed burst rate of 6.5 frames per second (fps), at full resolution. Similar to the Nikon D4S, the D750 features the 91,000-pixel 3D Color Matrix Meter III and its blazing fast AF system uses 15 cross-type AF sensors for enhanced accuracy, with 11 cross-type sensors that are fully functional up to f/8. In addition to normal, wide area, face priority and subject tracking AF modes, the D750 also features the new Group Area AF mode for enhanced accuracy. Challenging light such as a poorly lit wedding reception is also no problem for the D750, as the AF system has been improved with the ability to lock on to subjects in as little as -3 EV illumination, a first for any Nikon D-SLR.

The D750 is Nikon’s first FX-format D-SLR with a tilting Vari-Angle LCD, with robust construction to meet the needs of working in the field. The precision 3.2-inch, 1,229K dot screen tilts to accommodate shooting overhead, at waist level and is ideal for shooting photos or HD video on a tripod. For those serious about using a D-SLR for video, the D750 delivers the same level of functionality found in the Nikon D810, with the maximum amount of manual control that’s essential for production applications.

Next Level Image Quality

The Nikon D750 features a newly developed 24.3-MP FX-format CMOS sensor to provide adept photographers with image quality that’s nothing short of astounding; with rich colors, beautiful gradation and a vast dynamic range. A myriad of other intelligent features help photographers to unlock their potential to create and share vibrant, tack-sharp images that takes an imaginative story from concept to reality.

The new Nikon D750 features the EXPEED 4 Image Processing Engine, similar to the pro-level D810 and D4S. In addition to increasing energy efficiency and performance, EXPEED 4 contributes to the overall image excellence with noise reduction performance and other benefits.

Whether shooting a vista bathed in full sun to a reception in minimal light, the camera produces images with exceptionally low noise in a variety of lighting conditions. The broad ISO range extends from 100-12,800, expandable from (Lo-1) 50 to (Hi-2) 51,200.

Highlight Weighted Metering is ideal for capturing stage performances and events, preventing blown-out highlights in photo and video.

The D750 also features the latest generation of Nikon’s Advanced Picture Control settings. The “Clarity” setting enhances midtones to emphasize intense image details and “Flat” Picture control is used for a broad tonal range, which is ideal for photo and video applications. Picture controls are also customizable in .25 increments, for maximum versatility in any shooting situation.

Full Control of Advanced Video Features

The D750 features the same level of advanced video functionality as the Nikon D810, an HD-SLR known in studios and on-set for its professional production pedigree. The camera can capture video in Full HD 1920x1080 resolution at 60/30/24p and gives videographers and multimedia artists full manual control, including aperture adjustment. Like D810, the Power Aperture feature provides smooth transitions while adjusting the aperture during recording, and in manual mode, users can control shutter speed and ISO.

The D750’s compact size and affordability will make it a welcome addition to any production environment, as will its FX and DX-format crop modes that make it a snap to adjust the focal range without swapping lenses. Implementing another indispensable feature on-set, footage can be recorded to the dual SD memory card slots, or simultaneously output to an external recorder or monitor via HDMI for a variety of applications. Camera operators will also enjoy features such as headphone and microphone jacks, Zebra stripes to spot overexposed areas, as well as the ability to select frequency ranges for the internal stereo microphone. For time lapse, the camera utilizes Exposure Smoothing, a great feature that creates balanced exposure transitions between frames when using the time lapse or intervalometer feature.

FX-Format Connectivity

The Nikon D750 is Nikon’s first full frame D-SLR to include built-in Wi-Fi, which enables photographers to both share their images and capture remotely. Using Nikon’s free Wireless Mobile Utility App1, users can connect with their compatible mobile device, such as a smart phone or tablet. Once connected, a tap on the screen engages auto focus, while the camera can be triggered remotely, making it easy to position the camera in areas where access could be difficult. Once downloaded, users can also utilize popular applications and social networks to seamlessly share images, bringing the exciting image quality of full-frame to the feeds of friends and family, on the fly. The feature can also be used to scout and send location photos to clients, or instantly deliver photos processed with the in-camera editing features.

For professional photographers and videographers, the camera also has the capability to transmit images over FTP using the WT-5a wireless transceiver plus the UT-1 Communications Unit. With these optional accessories, the camera can be triggered and controls operated in HTTP mode using the web browser of a mobile device. Live view as well as start/stop recording can also be enabled remotely, providing the ability to capture otherwise impossible footage, for example when the camera is mounted on a crane.

Command Agility and Durability

The camera is manufactured using a “monocoque” structural skin technique, which adopts durable carbon fiber for the front body and front cover, and resilient magnesium alloy for the rear cover and top cover. The resulting camera body is the ideal balance of substantial build quality and compact, yet lightweight design for comfortable all-day shooting. The structure is also sealed and gasketed to resist dust and moisture, and the shutter has been tested to 150,000 cycles. To further enhance build quality, the 3.2-inch tilting Vari-Angle LCD screen is joined to the camera using a durable three-axis metal mount, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. Users can also opt to compose through a bright viewfinder with 100% frame coverage, with shooting info displayed using organic EL illumination. 
From a newlywed’s first kiss to a bouquet toss, a split-second can make or break an image; ergonomics and the ability to quickly adjust camera functions are important factors to consider for enthusiasts and pros. The new body design ensures a secure and comfortable grip regardless of the size of user’s hands, while button placement is considered for peak performance.

Comprehensive Photographic System

Whether upgrading a current system or switching to Nikon’s legendary image quality, Nikon offers an all-inclusive system of NIKKOR Lenses, Speedlights and accessories for every type of photographer. The Nikon D750 is compatible with more than 80 FX and DX-format NIKKOR lenses, the same optics that have built a lasting legacy of amazing image quality with brilliant sharpness and faithful color reproduction. For those upgrading from a DX-format lens system the D750 can also shoot in DX mode at 10.3-megapixels. The camera is compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) using the camera’s built in flash to control remote Speedlights for creative lighting possibilities. The new MB-D16 battery pack will also be released with the camera, to provide users with extended battery life as well as a functional vertical grip.

AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED: Fast Ultra Wide-Angle Lens

The AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED is the latest addition to Nikon’s popular f/1.8 series of FX-format lenses, which provide enthusiast photographers with fast, quality optics at an attractive price. This is Nikon’s first ultra wide angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture, allowing users to shoot in challenging light and create images with a pleasing separation between subject and background. With a 94-degree angle of view (FX), the lens is ideal for architecture, interiors, wide-angle landscape and creative group portraits. When paired with the compact D750, this lens is also a great solution for video applications that call for shooting in cramped quarters. This AF-S lens provides whisper quiet and fast autofocus capability, an internal focus design, and features Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat to reduce instances of ghost and flare.

SB-500: Versatile and Compact Video Speedlight

The SB-500 Speedlight is an exciting addition to Nikon’s Speedlight lineup, offering users the unbeatable yet versatile combination of a compact yet powerful Speedlight and LED video light, covering a wide 16mm/24mm (FX/DX). The controls on the SB-500 are simplified, making it easy to explore the possibilities of creative lighting with Speedlights. For full control over illumination, the head of the Speedlight has a 90-degree vertical swivel to bounce light off ceilings, and rotates 180-degrees for soft lighting effects. For remote lighting possibilities, the SB-500 Speedlight can be integrated into a CLS system with two-group/two-channel control. The powerful LED light (100 lux) is a great option for lighting video, and can be operated independently. Additionally, the SB-500 Speedlight is also powered by only two AA batteries, reducing both its weight and size.

Price and Availability

The Nikon D750 D-SLR will be available in late September for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $2299.95* (body only). The Nikon D750 will also be available as a kit with the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR lens in mid-October. The MB-D16 battery pack/grip will be available for $485.00 SRP. The AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED will be available in late September for an SRP of $799.95. The SB-500 Speedlight will also be available in late September for $249.95 SRP.

Preorder Opportunities:

Nikon D750 DSLR Camera - B&H
Nikon SB-500 Speedlight Flash - B&H
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED - B&H

From Canon Professional Services:

As part of Canon’s role as official imaging supplier to the 2014 Ryder Cup golf tournament, Canon Professional Services (CPS) will provide comprehensive technical support for professional photographers and videographers before and throughout the upcoming event at the Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland, taking place from 23-28 September 2014...

The CPS team, located in the event’s media centre behind the first fairway and the Argyll Pavilion, will provide support services – including equipment checks and cleans and limited minor repairs (subject to tools and spare parts availability) – to all accredited professional photographers and videographers using Canon EOS pro equipment, including Cinema EOS equipment.

During the event CPS will also be offering a loan service that will be available for customers who may experience an issue with their equipment.

Canon’s CPS area will be open during the times specified in the table below (times in GMT):

CPS opening hours at the 2014 Ryder Cup golf tournament

From SanDisk:

AMSTERDAM, Sept. 11, 2014 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), a global leader in flash storage solutions, today launched its 512GB** SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I memory card, the world’s highest capacity SD card on the market. The new offering is designed to meet the demands of industry professionals who require the most advanced gear available for shooting 4K Ultra High Definition (3840x2160p) video, Full HD video (1920x1080) and high-speed burst mode photography.

“As an industry leader, SanDisk continues to push the boundaries of technology to provide customers with the innovative, reliable, high-performance solutions they have come to expect from us,” said Dinesh Bahal, vice president, product marketing, SanDisk. “4K Ultra HD is an example of a technology that is pushing us to develop new storage solutions capable of handling massive file sizes. The 512GB SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I card is a tremendous advancement that enables professionals to reliably store more content on a single card than ever before.”

Built for the Pros

Since SanDisk unveiled its first 512MB SD card in 2003, capacity demands have increased exponentially and the new 512GB SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I card represents a 1,000-fold capacity increase in just over a decade, yet maintains the same size footprint. SanDisk’s most powerful and highest capacity SD UHS-I memory card yet, the 512GB card delivers write speeds up to 90 MB/s* and UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) recording speed for high resolution, real-world color and stutter-free 4K Ultra HD video1. Transfer speeds up to 95 MB/s* move data quickly for efficient post-production workflow.

The 512GB SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I card delivers both the speed and capacity needed to support 4K Ultra HD video capture, enabling users to shoot tremendous amounts of content without disrupting the moment.

The new offering comes with key features designed for pro-level action:

• Built for and tested in harsh conditions—temperature proof, water proof, shock proof, and x-ray proof
• Lifetime limited warranty
• RescuePRO Deluxe data recovery software download offer, for bringing accidentally deleted images back to life

SanDisk Extreme Team member Sebastian Devaud, renowned director and producer, relies on cutting edge technologies to continuously advance his productions. “I am always interested in new technologies to help improve how I work and the quality of my results,” said Devaud. “With higher capacities, I have greater flexibility to capitalize on the moment and let the camera roll without worrying about the performance of my equipment.”

“The new 512GB SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I card offers incredible speed and capacity,” said Grant Petty, CEO, Blackmagic Design. “Our Pocket Cinema Camera customers shoot in every type of circumstance and location, and get amazing wide dynamic range RAW images capturing the brightest highlights and darkest shadows at the same time. The additional capacity of the SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I card will extend the creative freedom for our customers shooting in RAW and open up the ability to use wide dynamic range RAW files with even more productions.”

Pricing and Availability

The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I SDHC/SDXC memory cards are available worldwide in capacities of 512GB, 256GB and 128GB. The 512GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I card will be available for $799.99 (MSRP).

Adorama has the new SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC Memory Cards available for preorder.

Update: B&H now has the new SanDisk Extreme PRO memory cards available for preorder:

• SanDisk 512GB Extreme PRO SDXC-UHS-1
• SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO SDXC-UHS-1
• SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC-UHS-1

Are you shooting a video and want a good illustration of how different camera and focal length combinations will render a scene? Check out this cool Field of View Comparator Tool on the Canon Digital Learning Center.

All you need to do is choose your focal length and the two cameras you want to compare. The tool gives you a visual representation showing the difference between the two setups – sample angles of view, crop factors and what focal lengths you need in order to match one scene to the other are all readily displayed.

Camera Systems Available in the Tool

• Canon EOS C100/C300/C500
• Canon EOS-1D Mark IV/1D C (4K)
• Canon EOS 6D/5D Mark III/1D X/1D C (HD)
• Canon EOS 60D/70D/7D/Rebel Series
• Canon XF300/305 / XF100/105 / XA10
• Arri Alexa/Amira
• Black Magic Digital Cinema Camera
• Film Super 16 16x9
• Film Super 35 16x9
• Panasonic AF100
• Panavision Genesis
• Phantom Flex / V642
• Phanton HD Gold
• Phantom Miro
• Red Epic / Red Scarlet-X
• Red Dragon
• Red One / Mysterium
• Red One / Mysterium-X
• Silicon Imaging SI-2K
• Sony F35/F3/FS100/FS700
• Sony F55/F5
• Sony F65
• 2/3" HD
• 1/2" HD
• 1/3" HD
• 1/4" HD

Let me introduce you to the highest quality 85mm DSLR lens available:

Zeiss Otus 85mm f/1.4 Lens Review

B&H is accepting Zeiss Otus 85mm preorders, with shipments expected to start around September 16th.

From Think Tank Photo:

Santa Rosa, CA – September 11, 2014 – Think Tank Photo’s newest “About A Photograph” short film features the disturbing story behind Getty photographer John Moore’s stark image of Ebola virus victims who await their fate in a clinic waiting room in the Liberia’s capital of Monrovia.

“It was a horrific scene. There were people who were healthy and people who were unhealthy all in the same rooms,” said Moore. "In fact, when I went back there were people who had died overnight in the same room with living people.”

Moore continued, “I don’t do these things because they are dangerous, I do them because they are difficult.”

John Moore is a senior staff photographer for Getty Images. He has been honored four times from World Press Photo for both domestic and international work. The Overseas Press Club awarded him the prestigious Robert Capa Gold Medal for his work in Pakistan and the John Faber Award for his work in the refugee camps in Zaire. Both Pictures of the Year International and the National Press Photographers Association have named him the photographer of the year. He was part of the Associated Press team that won the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Photography for coverage of the war in Iraq and, as a Getty staffer, was a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer for Breaking News Photography for his coverage of the Arab Spring.

Moore joined Getty Images in 2005 based in Islamabad, Pakistan until July 2008. During that time he worked throughout South Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and particularly in Pakistan, where he courageously captured the assassination of Benazir Bhutto. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 1990, Moore joined the Associated Press, first based in Nicaragua, then India, South Africa, Mexico and Egypt. He has photographed in more than 75 countries on five continents

From Professional Photographers of America:

Do you need a model release? The answer is yes, and we'll give you one for FREE.

Here's why:

• Because, depending on what state you live in, it might be legally required.
• Because, should you want to use someone's likeness in the future, you'll have permission in writing and never have to worry about facing legal action. Your copyright alone isn't enough!

Click here to get your free Model Release White Paper with Sample Release

From the B&H YouTube Channel:

In this jam-packed and fun seminar Fashion/Celebrity photographer Frank Doorhof guides you through many tips that will make your photo-shoot go from ok to WOW without breaking the bank. Frank talks about using light more creatively, using props, but most of all how to style your sessions and coach the models to get that one expression and tell that story that will make your shots stand out.