Canon and Sony News for Jan 2016 (Page 5)

From Nikon:

A high-output, multi-functional, high-end model that is the first Nikon Speedlight to be equipped with a radio control function

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the SB-5000, the new high-end Nikon Speedlight.

The SB-5000 is the first Nikon Speedlight to be equipped with a radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting function, and is also equipped with a cooling system that enables more than 100 continuous full-power flashes. When used with the Nikon D5 or D500 digital SLR cameras released at the same time as the SB-5000, the wireless multiple flash photography that professional and advanced amateur photographers often take on is even more flexible.

Primary Features

1. Radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting
   The SB-5000 is the first Nikon Speedlight to be equipped with a radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting function. Radio control makes wireless multiple flash photography easier in situations where conventional optical control is difficult, such as when remote flash units are positioned behind objects or at greater distances, or when ambient lighting is very bright (supports a communication range of up to approx. 30 m). A more flexible multi-flash system supports capture of even more creative photographic works with advanced wireless lighting.
2. Equipped with a cooling system for significant increase in the number of continuous flashes
   The SB-5000 is equipped with a new cooling system that cools the flash head. The cooling system has been significantly improved, keeping the flash panel from overheating and enabling more than 100 continuous flashes. As the cooling system keeps the Speedlight from overheating, professional and advanced amateur photographers can enjoy more comfortable and active flash photography.
3. Smaller with improved operation
   Despite its smaller size, SB-5000 operation has been refined by assigning a number of functions to the rotary multi selector and OK button. Adoption of an "i" button, which offers quick access to frequently used functions, also contributes to more efficient operation. What's more, when the SB-5000 is used with the D5 or D500, even more agile and flexible flash photography is possible.

• High output flash with a guide number of 34.5 in FX format and 41 in DX format
• Power zoom function with which the SB-5000 automatically adjusts the zoom head position to match lens focal length FX format, Standard illumination pattern: 24-200 mm (14 mm with the built-in wide panel in place) DX format, Standard illumination pattern: 16-200 mm (10 mm with the built-in wide panel in place)
• Bounce capability: Flash head tilts down to 7° or up to 90°, and rotates horizontally 180° to the left and right
• Automatic switching of zoom head position with detection of the camera's image area setting—FX or DX format—for optimal angle of flash coverage

B&H has the Nikon Speedlight SB-5000 available for preorder.

From Nikon:

Nikon's flagship DX-format digital SLR camera offering the supreme performance of the D5 in a compact, lightweight body

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the D500, a DX-format digital SLR camera that packs the incredible performance of the D5, Nikon's flagship FX-format model, into an agile body.

The D500 incorporates the same powerful 153-point AF system as the D5, ensuring precise subject acquisition even during high-speed continuous shooting at approx. 10 fps. It supports 4K UHD movies, meeting the demands of multimedia professionals, while the new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine enables it to deliver high-quality images and movies and realizes a wide sensitivity range from ISO 100 to 51200, expandable to Hi 5 (ISO 1640000 equivalent).

The D500 combines the agility of the DX system with superior usability. It employs a touch-screen, tilting monitor, and features SnapBridge support, which enhances the value of your images via constant wireless connection with a smart device. The camera is compatible with the newly released MB-D17 Multi-Power Battery Pack (optional), which can be used with various types of battery.

D500 Primary features

1. Powerful 153-point AF achieves superior subject acquisition performance across a wide range of situations
   The D500's Multi-CAM 20K autofocus sensor module offers a dense configuration of 153 focus points (99 cross sensors) that covers an extremely wide portion of the image area, meaning that even fast-moving subjects can be acquired precisely. AF capability is extended down to -4 EV with the central point and -3 EV with all other points, making AF usable even in extremely low light or when shooting low-contrast subjects. A newly employed AF engine and 180K-pixel RGB sensor also contribute to achieving exceptional AF performance in a variety of scenes.
2. High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 10 fps for up to 200 shots (14-bit lossless compressed RAW)
   The D500 delivers high-speed continuous shooting at approx. 10 fps for up to 200 shots in JPEG and in 14-bit lossless compressed RAW, without any drop in shooting speed. Even moving subjects can be tracked accurately across a wide field of view at this rapid rate, taking advantage of the camera's stable viewfinder image and a widest-ever diagonal viewing angle of approx. 30.8°.
3. Unique benefits of a compact DX system — added agility in telephoto shooting
   Nikon's DX-format D500 provides an angle of view equivalent to that of a lens with an approx. 1.5x longer focal length. This permits telephoto shooting using smaller, lighter lenses with a shorter focal length, while taking advantage of performance that rivals the D5 FX-format flagship model. The camera's agility is also enhanced by the kit lens, AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR, the lightweight 5x normal zoom lens, which weighs only approx. 1340 g/2 lb 15.3 oz when attached to the D500.
4. 4K UHD video, suitable for professional productions
   The D500 can record 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p/25p/24p as well as 1080/60p video for up to 29 min. 59 s, with simultaneous output via HDMI available. It is also possible to generate 4K UHD time-lapse movies within the camera. In Full HD or HD mode, the D500's electronic Vibration Reduction function reduces the effects of camera shake in the horizontal, vertical and rotational directions during hand-held movie recording, while Active D-Lighting preserves details in highlights and shadows to capture footage with natural brightness.
5. New EXPEED 5 image-processing engine achieves sensitivity up to ISO 51200, expandable to Hi 5 (equivalent to ISO 1640000)
   The D500's new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, as used in the D5, delivers standard ISO sensitivity from 100 to 51200, expandable down to Lo 1 (ISO 50 equivalent) and up to Hi 5 (ISO 1640000 equivalent). It can capture exceptionally high-definition images, while effectively reducing noise even at high ISO settings. The new 180K-pixel RGB sensor (approx. 180,000 pixels) further improves the performance of the camera's Advanced Scene Recognition System, and its flicker reduction for still images reduces exposure variations even under flickering light sources.
6. Touch-screen, tilting 8-cm/3.2-in. high-resolution monitor ensures more comfortable shooting for professionals and advanced amateurs
   The D500's touch-panel monitor enables a variety of functions, including instant switching of images using the frame advance bar and text input — shared with the D5 — as well as touch AF and touch shutter (in still shooting). The tilting monitor with 3-axis hinge structure allows you to shoot from more flexible angles for stills and movies. And its large 8-cm/3.2-in. screen with significantly enhanced 2359k-dot resolution lets you confirm focus in amazingly precise detail.
7. SnapBridge support lets you link with a smart device via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
   The D500 can be constantly connected to a smart device with the SnapBridge application installed (to be available as a free download), via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This enables a variety of features: you can automatically transfer images taken with the D500 to your smart device, as well as upload them automatically to NIKON IMAGE SPACE. You can also use the smart device to browse images stored in the camera, as well as embed images with its location and date/time information. SnapBridge dramatically enhances the value and convenience of images taken with the D500.
8. WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (optional) enables high-speed wired/wireless LAN communication
   Nikon's WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter is aimed at professionals who need to transfer images more quickly than they can with built-in wireless LAN. When attached to the D500, it allows images and movie files to be transferred to computers or FTP server via both wired and wireless LAN. The D500 with WT-7/A/B/C can be used as a wireless LAN access point, permitting easy connections with computers and smart devices.

From Nikon:

Outperform, Outdo, Outlast: The D5 raises the bar for FX performance. The most powerful digital SLR flagship in the Nikon line-up leads the pack with unmatched speed and precision

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation today announces the new D5, a FX-format flagship digital SLR camera that challenges photographers to outperform their highest standards, and set new benchmarks for speed, accuracy and image quality. Expanding the possibilities of image capture for professional photographers, the new D5 places the needs of the professional at the centre of innovation with features that enable smooth and reliable responsiveness to a wide variety of scenes and subjects.

From the refined acquisition of subjects in motion, to 4K video in UHD, the D5 creates opportunities for dauntless photographers working in demanding shooting environments to push their gear to new limits. With a next generation AF system the intelligent and versatile tracking of moving subjects enables the richness and realism of every split-second moment to be captured. The D5 boasts a wide range of ISO sensitivity up to 102400, expandable to Hi 5 (ISO 3280000 equivalent) — the most expanded sensitivity range in Nikon history — for astronomical twilight with minimum illumination, capturing details and colors beyond the limits of the human eye.

"The Nikon D5 is not just about technical excellence, but the marriage of elegant technologies. Speed and refined image quality have never converged so extensively, making it truly the camera that the industry has been waiting for," said Tadashi Nakayama, Corporate Vice President, Sector Manager of Marketing Sector, Imaging Business Unit. "The D5 represents what we are trying to do for the entire digital SLR category: Bringing technologies together to meet and anticipate the demands of professional photographers, empowering them to push the boundaries of their craft," he continues.

Outperform, Outdo, Outlast: The Pinnacle of Digital SLR Engineering for Professionals

The D5 enables the precise capture of subjects under the most demanding conditions with a new-generation 153-point AF system and a stable viewfinder image that makes tracking moving subjects easy, even during high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 12 fps, making the camera ideal for photojournalists capturing heart-racing sporting action and majestic animal migrations. Image quality is further enhanced by the pairing of the new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor and the brand new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, for the most vibrant, true-to-life colors and sumptuous details. Together with the highest standard ISO sensitivity in Nikon history, up to102400, photographers are liberated from the challenges of shooting in low-light environments whether covering evening events or shooting indoors. In another first for the FX-format range, the D5 takes movie-making to new cinematic heights with the ability to shoot in 4K UHD 2160/30p format, in-line with the increasing appetite from professionals for the production of high quality video content.

Convenient Connectivity, Simplified Workflows

In addition, new and improved features and functions, such as a high-resolution touch screen LCD monitor, faster wired networks (via built-in Ethernet connector) and wireless networks, and double memory card slots that use the same type of media, to simplify and speed up the professional photographer's workflow, while placing the D5 in the center of the connected ecosystem for visual communication.

Designed for the Field and the Studio

The camera's Advanced Scene Recognition System, which has adopted a new 180k-pixel RGB sensor, contributes to greater AF, AE, and AWB performance. This, along with a design that consumes less power and adoption of a highly precise and durable shutter, ensures durability, and gives photographers greater control over their gear as well as image quality. The D5 also completely integrates into any professional photographer's comprehensive ecosystem of Nikon accessories. Compatibility with the new Nikon Creative Lighting System functions, radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting (AWL) and unified flash control, all work to ensure the production of superlative image quality and a seamless studio workflow

Primary features

1. Next-generation Intelligent AF System
   The entire AF system has been completely re-vamped with adoption of the Multi-CAM 20K autofocus sensor module. This sensor module offers 153 focus points (99 of which are cross-type sensors) for broad and dense coverage of the entire image area. The center focus point has a detection range beginning at an incredible -4 EV, and detection with other focus points begins at -3 EV, enabling autofocusing even under extremely dim lighting, and with subjects exhibiting very low contrast. In addition, equipping the camera with a dedicated AF engine capable of high-speed calculation and collaboration with the 180K-pixel RGB sensor have ensured that extremely reliable AF performance is demonstrated with a variety of scenes.
2. High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 12 fps with swift subject tracking
   The D5 is capable of high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 12 fps (w/ AF and AE tracking) in all image quality modes and at all ISO sensitivity settings. What's more, adoption of a new mirror drive mechanism achieves a more stable viewfinder image that makes continuous tracking of rapidly moving subjects easy, even with high-speed continuous shooting. Further, up to 200 12-bit lossless compressed RAW images can be captured with a single burst of continuous shooting.
3. Exceptional ISO sensitivity
   Collaboration between the new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor and the new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, both developed by Nikon, have enabled the highest standard ISO sensitivity in Nikon history, that of ISO 102400. High-sensitivity image quality at these never-before-seen levels achieves superior imaging quality, even within the high ISO 3200 to 12800 range often used with sports photography and the like. In addition, the image sensor's broad dynamic range enables rich and natural expression of tones for accurate reproduction of the finest details, even with extremely vivid subjects with which the expression of textures is especially difficult.
4. Cinematic brilliance with 4K UHD (30p) movie capability
   The D5 supports movie creation in 4K, which offers a resolution higher than HD or full-HD movies, an indispensable feature for professionals involved in film-making and video content creation. High-resolution 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p, 25p, 24p movies can be recorded to a memory card inserted in the camera, or, with simultaneous HDMI output, they can be displayed on an external monitor or recorded as uncompressed video to an external recorder. With support for the maximum standard sensitivity of ISO 102400, as well as even higher sensitivity settings up to Hi 5 (equivalent to ISO 3280000), even movies recorded at these high sensitivities will exhibit superior picture quality. 4K UHD time-lapse movies can also be generated in-camera.
5. Improved functionality and streamlined workflows
• A high-resolution 3.2-in., approx. 2,359k-dot touch screen LCD monitor
  Adoption of a touch screen for the display monitor enables nimble confirmation and high-speed navigation of a large number of images using a frame advance bar, and supports an efficient workflow with text input and the like. The large 3.2-inch, approximately 2,359k-dot high-resolution monitor enables extremely clear display with live view photography, even when the display is enlarged, for fast focus confirmation.
• Connect through wired and wireless networks
  The communications system has been significantly improved to support communications twice as fast as with the D4S, with both wired networks using the Ethernet connector built into the D5, and wireless networks when the new Wireless Transmitter WT-6/A/B/C (available separately) is used with the D5.
• Versatile image storage options
  Two versions of the D5 are available. Both are equipped with double memory card slots supporting a single media type; one XQD cards and one CompactFlash cards.
6. Accessories for high-speed connected convenience: WT-6/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter(available separately)
   When connected to the D5, the high-speed transfer of image data to a computer or an FTP server over a wireless network is possible. The maximum range is approximately 200 m. Communications are significantly faster with support for the new IEEE 802.11ac (2x2 VHT80) standard. Wireless control over the camera from a computer is also possible using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately). A D5 to which a WT-6/A/B/C is connected may be used as a wireless LAN access point, and a direct connection to a computer or smartphone is also achievable.

• Nikon D5 with Dual Compact Flash
• Nikon D5 with Dual XQD

From Canon USA:

New Optional Direct-Attachable Battery with Increased Capacity and New Layout Options Further Enable Creative Photo Printing On-the-Go

MELVILLE, N.Y. — January 5, 2016 — Evolving the expedient and versatile print experience made possible by Canon SELPHY printers, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the SELPHY CP1200 Wireless Compact Photo Printer. This freshly redesigned, on-the-go printer features an optional direct-attachable battery, Wi-Fi button, and the ability to print more memories than ever before.

Ideal for those who live a mobile lifestyle and love to capture memories in real time, the convenient and easy-to-use SELPHY CP1200 printer offers increased portability with its optional direct-attachable battery, which is sold separately and has the capacity to print 54 photos per charge, increased from 36 images in previous models. Additionally, the printer’s Wi-Fi button simplifies the overall printing process with more intuitive operation.

The printer is packed with crafty features that aid in creating and gifting keepsakes, mementos and souvenirs. With card-size printing options, users can create pass cases, messages, decorated albums, and more with the option of adding white or black borders to the layout. Users also have the ability to print postage stamp size sheets, featuring eight thumbnails or a combination of images. Other popular functionality, such as borderless printing and image optimization, can be used through adjustment on the printer itself or via a compatible mobile or tablet device, for ease of use. Furthermore, the printer is designed to provide accurate color reproduction, thanks to the use of dye sublimation technology, and also provides a water-resistant coating that will help photos last up to 100 years.

“The updated wireless and inventive feature sets enhance the flexibility and portability that SELPHY printer users love,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Canon believes that ease of use and creative availability should go hand-in-hand with high-quality photo printing, so we are excited to offer a greater level of editing functionality and print options.”

Additionally, the SELPHY CP1200 printer utilizes a variety of connection preferences, including SD card, Wi-Fi, USB memory and USB cords to work in almost any environment. Like its predecessor, it delivers easy-to-use connectivity providing users the ability to directly connect to a Wi-Fi network without the use of drivers to speedily print their favorite images from their camera roll straight through the Canon PRINT App.

The estimated selling price of the SELPHY CP1200 Wireless Compact Photo Printer is $105.99 (MSRP), and it is available in black and white.

B&H has the Canon SELPHY CP1200 Wireless Compact Photo Printer available for preorder.

From Canon USA:

New Additions Include Super-Zoom Models Ideal for Avid Travelers as well as Stylish and Compact Go Anywhere, Any Time Cameras

MELVILLE, N.Y. — January 5, 2016 — Built to deliver high-quality images and HD video and featuring built-in Wi-Fi and NFCTM connectivity for easy sharing, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the addition of two new cameras to its super-zoom PowerShot SX lineup - the PowerShot SX540 HS and PowerShot SX420 IS digital cameras. Also announced are three new stylish and compact additions to the Company’s PowerShot ELPH series, the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital cameras as well as PowerShot ELPH 180, all housed within slim bodies that can easily fit in a pocket or purse.Experiencing the power of a printed image is also easy when users connect and print to a Canon wirelessii printer, like the Canon PIXMA MG7720. And for even more convenience, the cameras are compatible with the new Canon Connect Station CS100 – a dedicated device for easy image and video viewing, sharing and storage.

PowerShot SX540 HS Camera

The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera builds on the features included in the PowerShot SX530 HS digital camera. The PowerShot SX540 HS has a powerful 50x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 24-1200mm) with Optical Image Stabilizer for outstanding optical performance. It features a new 20.3-Megapixeliii High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor with DIGIC 6 Image Processor that helps deliver high resolution combined with stunning low-light performance. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM technology. The new camera features a dedicated movie button so users can easily record 1080p Full HD video at an improved rate of up to 60 frames-per-second in MP4 format with stereo sound. The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera has an improved advanced Zoom Framing Assist feature that intelligently controls the lens, making it easy to identify the main subject of the shot, even when the subject is moving. It also features a lock button option for quick and accurate subject tracking. Additionally, its new Story Highlights feature automatically selects and compiles images into an exciting highlight reel within the camera without the use of extra software.

The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD screen (approx. 461,000 dots) allows easy viewing even from a wide angle. Its Hybrid Auto mode records quick video clips before each still and compiles them together to make a short highlight reel. The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera is scheduled to be available in March 2016 for an estimated retail price of $399.99.

PowerShot SX420 IS

Based on the successful PowerShot SX410 IS model, the PowerShot SX420 IS digital camera features an improved powerful 42x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 24-1008mm) and Optical Image Stabilizer for outstanding optical performance. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM technology. The 20.0- Megapixeliii sensor with DIGIC 4+ Image Processor helps deliver stunning image quality. Smart Auto intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on predefined shooting situations, and 720p HD video capture in MP4 format.

The PowerShot SX420 IS digital camera also features Scene modes such as Fisheye effect, Toy Camera effect and Monochrome, which provide creative freedom to capture your photos. While taking these creative photos, Eco mode helps reduce power consumption for longer battery life.

The camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD screen (approx. 230,000 dots) allows for easy operation and sharing. The PowerShot SX420 IS digital camera is scheduled to be available in February 2016 for an estimated retail price of $299.99.

PowerShot ELPH 360HS

The PowerShot ELPH 360HS is slim and stylish, boasting a 12x optical zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilizer that helps capture images with flexibility and ease. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM . The 20.2-Megapixelii CMOS sensor combines with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor to help deliver stunning image quality even in low light. The PowerShot ELPH 360HS digital camera also captures spectacular 1080p Full HD video.

The camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD screen allows for easy viewing and the Hybrid Auto feature records quick video clips before each still and compiles them together to make a short highlight reel. Story Highlights mode automatically selects and compiles images into an exciting highlight reel within the camera without the use of extra software.

The PowerShot ELPH 360HS digital camera is scheduled to be available in February for an estimated retail price of $209.99 and will be available in silver and purple.

PowerShot ELPH 190 IS

The PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital camera delivers high-quality imaging capabilities with a 10x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilizer and 20-Megapixeliii CCD sensor. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM technology. The PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital camera features smooth 720p HD video capabilities with Smart Auto mode, Scene modes and Eco mode to preserve battery life.

The PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital camera is scheduled to be available in February 2016 for an estimated retail price of $159.99 and will be available in black, red and blue.

PowerShot ELPH 180

The PowerShot ELPH 180 digital camera delivers high-quality imaging capabilities with an 8x optical zoom lens and 20-Megapixeliii CCD sensor. The PowerShot ELPH 180 digital camera features smooth 720p HD video capabilities with Smart Auto mode, Scene modes and Eco mode to preserve battery life. It also includes the Auto Zoom feature that automatically zooms in to frame subjects and keep them in focus.

The PowerShot ELPH 180 digital camera is scheduled to be available in February 2016 for an estimated retail price of $119.99 and will be available in silver and red.

B&H has the new PowerShot cameras available for preorder:

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 180
• Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 IS
• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360HS
• Canon PowerShot SX410 IS
• Canon PowerShot SX540 HS

At $299.00, the CamRanger is not necessarily an inexpensive option for wirelessly controlling your DSLR. From all accounts though, the device seems to work extremely well.

A new kid on the block is hoping to offer a similar experience for less than half the price – meet CamFi.

Features

• Wireless remote capture and live view
• Browse and view photos on the camera via iOS/Android device
• Display photos on an LCD TV (compatible hardware required)
• View RAW files in about 5 seconds
• Ability to print photos automatically after capture
• Advanced time-lapse

You can download the CamFi apps here.

From Nikon:

Fast and quiet AF with adoption of a stepping motor. Compact and lightweight normal zoom lenses covering the 18-55mm range of focal lengths with a maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6

January 5, 2016 – Tokyo – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of 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, two normal zoom lenses compatible with Nikon DX-format digital SLR cameras.

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 3.1x normal zoom lenses covering the 18-55mm range of focal lengths (effective angles of view equivalent to those of a lens with 27-82.5mm focal lengths in FX and 35mm [135] formats). They are the first "AF-P" lenses for Nikon digital SLR cameras, utilizing stepping motors to drive AF for fast and quiet autofocusing. In addition, they have a compact and lightweight design for which retractable barrels were adopted for excellent portability, and the use of two aspherical lens elements has resulted in superior optical performance with which various types of aberration, including distortion and spherical aberration, are effectively suppressed. The AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR is also equipped with a vibration reduction (VR) mechanism offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a 4.0-stop (with testing in accordance with CIPA standards) increase in shutter speed.

The combination of superior AF performance and excellent agility afforded by these lenses makes them perfect for those ready to try their hand at full-scale photography with a digital SLR camera.

AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Primary Features

• "AF-P" lenses that achieve fast and quiet AF with adoption of a stepping motor for AF drive operation
• Compact and lightweight 3.1x 18-55mm (effective angles of view equivalent to those of a lens with 27-82.5mm focal lengths in 35mm [135] format) normal zoom lenses utilizing a retractable barrel and compatible with the Nikon DX format
• Adoption of aspherical lens elements (2) achieves superior optical performance with which various types of aberration are effectively suppressed
• Equipped with a vibration reduction (VR) mechanism offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a 4.0-stop (with testing in accordance with CIPA standards) increase in shutter speed (AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR)

When posting my latest image to Flickr, I noticed that the EXIF shows that I took the image using the Zeiss Milvus 50mm f/1.4 lens.

"Hmm...," I thought to myself, "We have a problem here."

I did a little investigating and traced the incorrect lens identification bug back to the latest version of Adobe Camera RAW (v.9.3.1). It seems that ACR is misidentifying images taken with the Sigma 50mm Art. This bug will be especially problematic for those who use automatic lens profile corrections when importing RAW images into both Adobe Photoshop CC and Lightroom CC as the wrong lens profile will be applied.

To counteract the issue, when using the Sigma 50mm Art be sure to manually choose the Sigma 50mm f1.4 DG HSM A014 lens profile from the drop down list if a correction profile is desired. Also note that images saved and converted by Photoshop will display the incorrect lens in the EXIF even if no lens profile correction is applied.

Update: Adobe has let us know that they are aware of the issue and that it will be fixed in the next release of Adobe Camera RAW.

Just posted: Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens Review.

This lens has no fear of the dark.

B&H has the Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens in stock.

According to the Egami Blog, Canon has filed a patent for a 24-300mm f/3.5-5.6 USM lens.

Description of Patent

• Patent Publication No. 2015-215438
• Published 2015.12.3
• Filing date 2014.5.9
• Example
• Focal length 24.70 101.33 292.01
• F number 3.50 4.59 5.87
• AOV (degrees) 41.22 12.05 4.24
• Image height 21.64 21.64 21.64
• Overall length of the lens 202.71 232.50 288.71
• BF 38.78 43.69 75.66

I actually held onto this press release for a few days hoping a better version of it would surface (the release looks like it was authored in another language and run through Google Translate). Unfortunately, a more eloquent version never appeared. [Sean]

DECEMBER 28, 2015 – Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce the new AT-X 14-20 F2 PRO DX.

Characteristics

The fast F2.0 Zoom lens of Tokina
Since the maximum aperture of F2.0 is given this lens, it's possible to support the low sensitivity photography used ISO64 and ISO100 setting. The maximum aperture of F2.0 shows its power for the photography using the blur feeling and photography with the low brightness (In the room, In the night).

Adopt highly precise Plastic Aspherical lens
The 2nd lens group in this lens is adopted the plastic aspherical lens which improved surface accuracy, and is given antireflection coat. This lens is designed tough against ghost flare.

Arrange highly precise Glass molded Aspherical lens
2 pieces of super low dispersion glass molded aspherical lens is located in the back goup of the lens, and various aberration are corrected by these lenses.

Compact Body and Excellent Operability
Tokina’s exclusive One-touch Focus Clutch Mechanism allows the photographer to switch between AF/MF simply by sliding the focus ring, forward side for AF and back toward the camera for MF. This lens is designed as the fast aperture F2.0 in all focal range, but it is a compact body. This lens has a thread in the front frame, so it’s possible to attach filters of 82mm size.

The new Tokina AT-X 14-20 F2 PRO DX is an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for the DX(APS-C) size, and has the maximum aperture of F2.0. In low brightness situation, use it demonstrates its preeminent power

Specifications

Focus distance: 14 - 20mm
Brightness: f/2.0 Canon
Format : APS-C
Minimum aperture: f/22
Lens configuration: 13 elements in 11 group
Coating: Multilayer film coating
Angle of view: 91.68° ~ 71.78°
Filter size: 82mm
Shortest Object Distance: 0.28m
Macro maximum magnification: 1:8.36
Focus method: Internal focus
Number of Aperture blades: 9
Maximum diameter: 89.0mm
Full length: 106.0mm
Weight: 725g
Hood (Attached) : BH-823
Above mentioned specifications are for a Nikon mount.

There is no indication when the lens will be available for preorder.

From the B&H YouTube Channel:

In this B&H Event Space Highlight Janko Puls talks about and shows sample images on the 10 rules he followed when producing his book – A Visual Game of the City You Think you Know.

The full version of this talk can be found here.

by Sean Setters

Happy New Year from Bryan and me! I hope everyone had an enjoyable and memorable New Year’s Eve gathering with friends and family. With each new year, we have the opportunity look back at what we've accomplished in the previous year while also looking forward to what we want to accomplish in the year ahead.

With that in mind, we want to know – What are you focusing on this year? (pun intended)

We want to know about your photography goals for 2016. Are you going to attempt an up-until-now unexplored branch of photography like landscapes, architecture, portraiture, or macro? Or is it your goal to refine and hone your skills to become a recognized master in your already-chosen specialty?

Do you want to check off some of your bucket list locations and travel to far-flung destinations? Or do you want to concentrate your efforts on documenting family events, immortalizing a child's growth and youthful exuberance? Maybe your goal is to shoot more, possibly even every day?

As for me, my goal is to use my photography equipment to complete more video projects this year. With that in mind, I have purchased a Tascam DR-40 to augment my audio recording capabilities and I'm planning on getting a DJI Phantom 3 in the not-so-distant future. We'll see how that goes...

So, what is your focus for 2016? Let us know in the comments.