Canon, Nikon, and Sony News for May 2013

I'm not a fan of using a number to represent a camera, lens or accessory, but ... external pressures have led me to do so. You will now find product ratings, represented in stars, near the top of many of the site's reviews.
 
Please hit the About the Review Ratings page in the help section to learn more about these ratings.
 
Then check out my first-pass rating for your favorite photography gear.

Both B&H and Adorama have informed us that they have started shipping the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens to preorder customers. If you've been on the fence regarding this purchase, now would be a good time to preorder.
 
Preorder Opportunities: B&H | Adorama | Amazon

By Sean Setters
 
There are more than a few Android apps designed specifically for photographers. Here are some of the apps that I have found particularly useful:
 
Depth of Field Calculator (Free)
 
If you've ever used DOFMaster online, then you will be immediately familiar with what this app can do. Plug in your variables such as camera sensor size, focal length, aperture and subject distance, and the app will tell you how much depth-of-field you can expect when using those variables.
 
gps4cam ($2.99)
 
gps4cam allows you to geotag your images using your phone or tablet's GPS. The neat thing about gps4cam is that your phone and your camera's dates and times don't have to be synchronized in order for it to work. The program uses a QR code (the last image captured should be the QR code) to properly synchronize the track log with the times that the images were captured. Download the free gps4cam Desktop Client (click on "Downloads") on the gps4cam website.
 
The Photographer's Ephemeris ($4.99)
 
The Photographer's Ephemeris is a fantastic little app that can show you the sun or moon's position in the sky for any date, time and location. I used the app today to find out where the sun would be in the sky during a wedding ceremony I will be photographing next month. It's also incredibly handy for planning landscape photography trips, too.
 
Easy Release - Model Releases ($9.99)
 
Easy Release - Model Releases is an app I've used many times. The app generates model or property releases on your phone. You simply fill in the variables (Shoot Name, Location, Date, Subject Info, etc) and a release is automatically generated. Once generated, signatures using the phone's touchscreen are required to complete the process. Once complete, a PDF of the release can be emailed to the Photographer and/or the model/property owner. The releases generated by Easy Release are approved for use by Getty Images, iStockPhoto and Alamy.
 
If you have any other suggestions for Android apps that photographers might be interested in, let us know on our Facebook page.

From Nikon:
 

"TOKYO SKYTREE® went into operation on May 22, 2012, as a broadcasting tower for digital terrestrial broadcasting and as a general tourist facility designed to promote local development. At a height of 634 meters, it is currently the tallest free-standing broadcasting tower*1 in the world. TOKYO SKYTREE was entered in the Guinness World RecordsTM as the "world's tallest tower" on November 17, 2011.
 
A multi-camera control system from Nikon Systems Inc. has been installed on one of TOKYO SKYTREE's observation levels for the purpose of photographing and filming the spectacular panoramic view of Tokyo. This system has been photographing the 360° panoramic view continuously since TOKYO SKYTREE went into operation."
...
 
"The Multi-Camera Control System consists of 12 D3S digital single-lens reflex cameras installed on TEMBO DECK, the observation level at 340 meters, that continuously photograph the 360° view 24 hours a day. The images that are shot are transmitted to PCs in TOKYO SKYTREE's server room. This is where the images are stored and the camera settings are made. The interval between photographs can be set to any duration of not less than 30 seconds. The current settings are for 10-minute intervals between photographs during the daytime and 60-minute intervals at night. However, there are times when the interval will be purposely reduced—for events such as the Sumida River Fireworks Festival or when images of particular interest such as photographs of rainbows, lightning and typhoons are anticipated."

Check out the entire article on Nikon's website.
 
B&H carries the Nikon D3s's successor, the Nikon D4 DSLR Camera.

From Gizmodo:

"Not content to just turn paint into a power source, revolutionize headphones, suck pollution out of oceans, bestow us with hyper-fast upload times, and pretty much anything else you can dream up, graphene is at it once again. And this time, the supermaterial that keeps on giving is opening the door to better low-light photos in the form of an image sensor that can catch light 1,000 times better than traditional sensors. Oh, and it uses 10 times less energy, too."

Check out the full Gizmodo article for more info.

 
From Canon Professional Network:
 
For Spanish photographer and filmmaker Mikel Prieto, a commission from Maserati to produce a two-minute film and a set of still images for its new GranCabrio Sport and GranCabrio MC cars was to put him and his Cinema EOS C300 to the ultimate test. CPN writer Pablo Carballo finds out more…
 
May 2013 - For Spanish photographer and filmmaker Mikel Prieto, a commission from Maserati to produce a two-minute film and a set of still images for its new GranCabrio Sport and GranCabrio MC cars was to put him and his Cinema EOS C300 to the ultimate test. CPN writer Pablo Carballo finds out more…
 
Mikel Prieto had heard a lot about the EOS C300 but had never actually used one before the Maserati shoot. “When we got the job with Maserati the C300 hadn’t been out long, so we were eager to work with it, to check its quality, to find out more about the much-talked gamma curve and so on,” he recalls. Its performance left him more than happy. “The resulting quality was stunning,” he reveals.
 
Visit the Canon Professional Network to read the full article.
 
B&H carries the Canon EOS C300 Cinema EOS Camcorder.

Image quality samples (ISO 12233 resolution chart crops) and distortion test results are now available on the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Lens Review page.
 
Check out the difference in "Aperture Max by Focal Length" between this lens and the non-PZD predecessor in the lens specifications and measurements tool.

From Sigma:
 
Introducing an industry milestone of lens customization. Fine tune the critical parameters of your 120-300mm f2/.8 lens with our proprietary USB Dock and Sigma Optimization Pro Software and you'll see:
 
This is more than an advance, it's an evolution.
 
---------------------------------
 
Autofocus Motor Speed
 
The overall speed of the AF motor can be adjusted when the AF is engaged.
 
Microfocus Adjustments
 
Fine-tune your lenses' response in multiple zones at all focal distances without having to send your camera in for adjustment.
 
Focus Limiter Setting
 
The Autofocus limiter range can be customized to keep the focal distance response zone exactly where you want it.
 
Lens Firmware Updates
 
Adjust your lens firmware and make updates yourself, even with new lens/camera communication protocols that aren't included in the previous chip. And do it all without service support.
 
Optical Stabilizer Customization
 
Dynamic, Standard and Moderate OS customization allows for control of the visual feel of the Optical Stabilizer through the viewfinder while framing the moment.
 
Multiple Custom Settings
 
The C1 and C2 switch on the lens allows for different customization presets for different situations – one for ballgame and another for birdwatching.
 
Learn more about Sigma's Optimization Pro Software and USB Dock.
 
B&H carries the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Lens for Canon and Sigma USB Dock.

B&H has the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Lens for Canon in stock (with limited supply).

 
From AdoramaTV:
 
Apply a guerilla filmmaking approach to on-location photography: Keeping it simple. Don't forget your paint pole!
 
In this eposiode of Photo on the Go, shot exclusively for AdoramaTV, Joe McNally describes how he was able to capture a dramatic scene in a remote setting while staying mobile and with a great light source.
 
Related Products:

• Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S Nikkor Lens
• Shur-Line 06572L Easy Reach Extension Pole, 4-6 Feet
• Kacey Pole Adapter
• Nikon SB 910 TTL AF Show Mount Speedlight
• Lastolite Joe McNally Rotate Triflash
• Westcott 7 Feet White Diffusion Parabolic Umbrella

Budget Recommendations:

• Flashpoint 16-Rib 86" Parabolic White Umbrella
• Flashpoint 16-Rib 64" Parabolic White Umbrella
• Interfit Photographic Triple Flash Bracket

Note: I [Sean] have been using the Shur-Line Painter's Pole with a Kacey Pole Adapter for several years. If you have some assistance, it can really make "run-and-gun" off-camera lighting much easier.

From Canon USA:
 
Details:
 
Firmware Version 1.2.4 incorporates the following improvements and fixes:

1. Improves the speed of the camera’s acquisition of focus when using a Canon Speedlite’s AF-assist beam.
2. Reduces the time it takes to display the metering result on the LCD or Viewfinder when the meter has been activated.
3. Fixes a phenomenon in which a “Caution 02” message is unnecessarily recorded in the camera status log.
4. Fixes a phenomenon in which continuous shooting pauses when using a Canon Speedlite.
5. Fixes a phenomenon, when the Canon GP-E1 is attached, in which the GPS device settings are reset to default settings when the camera has been powered off.

Note: *This phenomenon occurs only with firmware Ver. 1.2.1. After changing the GPS device settings, please be sure to power off the camera before removing the battery. This will ensure that the camera's GPS device settings will be saved.
 
Firmware Version 1.2.4 is for cameras with firmware version 1.2.1 or earlier. If your camera’s firmware is already Version 1.2.4, it is not necessary to update the firmware. When updating your camera’s firmware, please review the instructions thoroughly before you update the firmware.
 
The firmware update takes approximately seven minutes.
 
Download:
 
The new Firmware Version 1.2.4 can be downloaded by clicking here.
 
This information is for residents of the United States and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.
 
B&H carries the Canon 1D X DSLR Camera. The Canon Store also has the Refurbished 1D X in stock.

From Canon USA:
 
Details:
 
Firmware Version 1.0.4 includes the following fixes:

1. Fixes the rare issue of an error occurring during the transmission of images via Wireless LAN (FTP).
2. The reliability of USB data transfer has been improved between the Canon EOS 5D Mark III running firmware version 1.2.1 and the Canon Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7A running firmware 1.0.4. For optimal performance be sure to update both devices to the latest firmware version.

Firmware Version 1.0.4 is for Wireless File Transmitters with firmware version 1.0.2. If the Wireless File Transmitter’s firmware is already version 1.0.4, it is not necessary to update the firmware. When updating your Wireless Transmitter’s firmware, please review the instructions thoroughly before you update the firmware.
 
Download:
 
The new Firmware Version 1.0.4 can be downloaded by clicking here.
 
This information is for residents of the United States and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.
 
B&H carries the Canon WFT-E7A Wireless File Transmitter.

From Canon Europe:
 
FAQ: EOS-1D C Latest Firmware Update [Version 1.2.0 - Added 29 May 2013]
 
Details:
 
Firmware version 1.2.0 incorporates the following improvements and fixes:

1. Provides support for 25.00p (fps) video recording frame rate (PAL settings) at the camera’s maximum 4K resolution.
2. A function to disable the image size selection button has been added.
3. Fixes a phenomenon in which a difference in exposure appears on every other shot when shooting continuously and the auto-lighting optimizer is turned on (on weak, standard or strong).
4. Fixes a phenomenon in which video recorded onto an external recorder sometimes becomes two-layered if it has been recorded through HDMI output.
5. The video frame rate now displays two additional decimal places, e.g. 24p -> 23.98p (fps).
6. Fixes a phenomenon in which the on-screen guidance cannot be fully displayed when setting the maximum limit value for the “Auto ISO Range” option.
7. Corrects errors in the Portuguese language menu.

Note:Items No. 1,2,4,5,6 and 7 have been incorporated into Firmware Version 1.1.9.
Items No. 1 through 7 have been incorporated into Firmware Version 1.2.0.
 
Helpful Information:
 
Firmware Version 1.2.0 is for cameras running either Firmware Version 1.0.2 or Firmware Version 1.1.9.
 
Solution:
 
Customers who wish to update EOS-1D C to Firmware Version 1.2.0 are requested to bring their cameras to our authorised service facilities.
 
Support will begin on 29 May.
 
If you have any further enquiries, please contact us using the e-mail support or telephone support option.
 
B&H carries the Canon EOS-1D C camera.

 
From Think Tank Photo:
 
5/29/2013
 
We just released “About A Photograph,” a free video series at that features some of the world’s leading photographers recounting the events behind some of the most powerful images of our time. Narrated by the actual photographers who captured the images, each short video focuses on the forces that led up to that perfect moment in time when subject, story, setting, equipment, and photographer converged.
 
The videos will be found at http://blog.thinktankphoto.com/about-a-photograph/
 
The first video in the series features Agence France-Presse photographer Saul Loeb. In it he narrates the events that led him to capturing the iconic “Presidential Hug” image from the 2012 United States presidential campaign. His photo captures a Florida pizza shop owner lifting and bear-hugging a surprised President Obama. Said Loeb about that moment, “This could end up being the defining photo of the campaign season.”
 
“About A Photograph” is being produced by Kurt Rogers and Deanne Fitzmaurice, our co-founders and award-winning photojournalists. The video series will feature current as well as classic and historic photographs that span a range of styles, including documentary/photojournalistic, fine art, nature/environment, sports, and politics.
 
In reflecting on this new series, Kurt noted: “When we photojournalists go out on assignment we never know what awaits us. It is through our training as experts in sensing when and where events will unfold that we are able to capture images that best convey the story.
 
‘About A Photograph’ allows photographers, students, teachers, historians, and others to get inside the heads of these expert photographers at that fleeting moment of creation. The images being featured range from the beautiful to the tragic, from the humorous to the informative. The one trait they share is that all are memorable and capture the essence of visual storytelling.
 
We will release new “About A Photograph” videos every three weeks.
 
Note: Use the links from this site to get a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Think Tank Photo!

Canon has released EOS 1D Mark III firmware versions 1.3.1.
 
Details:

1. Enables the center AF point to autofocus when the camera is used with the EF 200-400mm F4L USM Extender 1.4X lens and an Extender, whose combined maximum aperture is f/8.

Canon Japan has released some information regarding a firmware update for the Canon EOS-1D C camera. It seems that a new firmware update (version 1.2.0) will be available soon.
 
Below is an updated translation regarding the changes in the firmware update.
 
Firmware Changes:

1. Provides support for 25.00p (fps) video recording frame rate (PAL settings) at the camera’s maximum 4K resolution.
2. A function to disable the image size selection button has been added.
3. Fixes a phenomenon in which a difference in exposure appears on every other shot when shooting continuously and the auto-lighting optimizer is turned on (on weak, standard or strong).
4. Fixes a phenomenon in which video recorded onto an external recorder sometimes becomes two-layered if it has been recorded through HDMI output.
5. The video frame rate now displays two additional decimal places, e.g. 24p -> 23.98p (fps).
6. Fixes a phenomenon in which the on-screen guidance cannot be fully displayed when setting the maximum limit value for the “Auto ISO Range” option.
7. Corrects errors in the Portuguese language menu.

From what we understand, customers will have to send their cameras into Canon Service to perform the firmware update. The turnaround for the firmware update is expected to be about a week.
 
B&H carries the Canon EOS-1D C camera.

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 29, 2013 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced its parent company, Canon Inc., has reached a new lens-manufacturing milestone with the production of its 90-millionth EF-series interchangeable lens for EOS cameras. Canon turned out its 90-millionth lens, an EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM (released in September 2012), on May 23, 2013.
 
The production of interchangeable EF lenses for Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) single-lens reflex film cameras began in 1987 at the Company's Utsunomiya Plant. Since that time, supported by a wide range of users, demand has steadily increased and production has expanded. Today, Canon produces EF lenses at four of the Company's manufacturing bases, including Canon Inc., Taiwan; Canon Opto (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.; and Oita Canon Inc. in southern Japan.
 
EF lens production surpassed the 10-million-unit mark in 1995, doubled to 20 million lenses in 2001, and went on to reach 30 million units in 2006 and 40 million units in 2008. Afterward, due to the rapid spread of EOS digital SLR cameras, production of EF lenses gained further momentum, crossing the 50-million-unit threshold in 2009, reaching 60 million units in January 2011, and hitting the 70-million-unit mark in October of the same year. In August 2012, lens production reached 80 million units and now, a little over nine months later, the company commemorates its latest manufacturing milestone of 90 million lenses.
 
Canon's proprietary EF lenses, launched in March 1987 along with the EOS SLR camera system, have continued to evolve since their introduction, leading the industry through the incorporation of a wide range of innovative technologies, including the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, a multi-layered diffractive optical (DO) element, and Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) anti-reflection technology.
 
With the introduction in May this year of the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x, super-telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4x extender that makes possible a 200-560 mm focal length range, along with EF Cinema Lenses for digital cinematography, Canon's extensive EF lens-series lineup now comprises a total of 84 models.
 
Canon will continue refining its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable lenses and cameras that cater to the varying needs of photographers-from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals-while contributing to expanding the photographic and video imaging culture.
 
Click here to see a high-resolution sample of the image above.
 
B&H carries Canon EF Lenses.

Canon has released EOS 1D Mark IV firmware versions 1.1.3.
 
Details:

1. Enables the center AF point to autofocus when the camera is used with the EF 200-400mm F4L USM Extender 1.4X lens and an Extender, whose combined maximum aperture is f/8.
2. Fixes a phenomenon in which abnormal images may result when continuous shooting mode is enabled and the image size is set to “RAW” or “RAW+JPEG.

Canon has released EOS 1Ds Mark III firmware versions 1.2.2.
 
Details:

1. Enables the center AF point to autofocus when the camera is used with the EF 200-400mm F4L USM Extender 1.4X lens and an Extender, whose combined maximum aperture is f/8.

B&H expects a shipment of Sigma USB Docks to hit their inventory on or before Thursday. If you haven't already placed your preorder, now would be a good time to get in line.

B&H now has the Vello Bounce Dome Diffuser for Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT in stock.
 
If you don't have a Canon 600EX-RT, check out the Vello Dome Diffusers for other flash models

Samyang has just announced a new lens for APS-C sensor cameras – the Samyang 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC Lens – via its Facebook profile.
 
The new lens will feature 13 elements in 11 groups, 2 aspherical lenses, and a 77mm filter mount. A Facebook comment left by Samyang hinted at a late-June to mid-July release date.
 
To see the original announcement, click on the "Photos" section of the Facebook profile.

The Canon Camera Museum has published a technical report on the EOS Rebel T5i and SL1 DSLR cameras.
 
B&H carries the Canon EOS Rebel T5i and SL1 DSLR cameras.

 
While Google Glass is certainly an intriguing and promising piece of technology, I'm not quite sure it's well-suited for replacing traditional camera equipment for up-and-coming photographers. ;-)

 
Even if you've been shooting for several years, there's a good chance you may never have worked in a studio environment. This AdoramaTV video by Mark Wallace highlights ten things you should know when working in a studio environment.
 
Be sure to watch the video all the way to the end to see some humorous outtakes.
 
Gear Used in the Video:

• Matthews Baby Jr. Triple Riser Stand with Wheels
• Permacell Gaffer Tape 25 Yards x 2"- Black
• Profoto Acute2 1200 Watt-Second Generator
• Matthews Cordura 15 lb Capacity Sandbag, Color: Orange
• Manfrotto 035 Super Clamp without Stud (#035)