Please update to SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2 before operating firmware update of SIGMA 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM S013 F/CANON.
SIGMA Optimization Pro Download Page
Note: Apparently, blogger/photographer JerseyShooter had a big hand in alerting Sigma to the need for this firmware update. Check out his blog for more info.
B&H carries the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM lens and the Sigma USB Dock.
Accuracy and Speed
With the ability to brandish the results of such staggering resolution, accuracy and precision become paramount as the need for razor-sharp focus is critical. The D810 renders every subtle detail and nuance in epic clarity, with the enhanced Multi-Cam 3500-FX AF sensor module that utilizes new AF algorithms for fascinating precision, even in challenging light. The focus system also has 15 cross-type AF sensors for enhanced accuracy, and works with the Advanced Scene Recognition System to provide accurate face detection even through the optical viewfinder. The camera also utilizes 11 cross-type sensors that are fully functional when using compatible NIKKOR lenses and teleconverters (aperture value up to f/8), which is especially useful for wildlife photography. In addition to normal, wide area, face tracking and subject tracking modes, the D810 also features the new Group AF mode for enhanced accuracy, even while tracking subjects.
Despite the D810’s immense imaging power, it will astound with its rapid response and speedy performance, thanks to the implementation of the EXPEED 4 image processing engine. The addition of EXPEED 4 allows for an overall 30% boost in performance, as well as a faster burst speed and enhancement to overall energy efficiency. Now the D810 is capable of shooting at 5 frames-per-second (fps) at full resolution and 5:4, 6 fps in DX or 1.2x modes, (15.4-megapixel, 25.1-megapixel, respectively), and 7 fps in DX mode (15.4-megapixel), with battery pack. For full workflow versatility, the D810 also gives users the option to shoot in full resolution 14-bit RAW/NEF file format or the new RAW Size Small format. This 12-bit file format is half the resolution and approximately 1/4 the file size of full RAW files, for increased flexibility when speedy downloads are desired or memory space is at a premium.
Refined Controls and Construction
From all day in the studio to an extended assignment in the field, the D810 has been engineered for superior comfort and operability. When looking through the wide and bright viewfinder with 100% coverage, users will see shooting data displayed on an organic EL display element for maximum visibility. The viewfinder now also features a prism coating for enhanced clarity. In addition, the grip has been refined for comfort and ergonomics, and the “i” button has been added for quick access to common mode-dependent settings.
Both photographers and videographers will clearly see the benefits of the new high-resolution (1229K-dot) 3.2-inch LCD screen, which makes it simple to check focus, review images or compose a scene. The color space of the LCD screen can now also be fully customized, a feature that is useful for matching monitor or print calibration settings. Using the high-resolution LCD screen, users can also activate the new Split Screen Display Zoom function. This new mode magnifies two separated points on the same horizontal line, making it easier to confirm the two points are both level and in focus; a true advantage for architecture, industrial and landscape photographers.
Inside the durable magnesium alloy structure of the D810 improvements have also been made, including the use of a redesigned mirror sequencer / balancer unit, which minimizes vibration during shooting to increase sharpness during multiple frame bursts. Additionally, the electronic front curtain can now act as an electronic front shutter when using live view or first composing through the optical viewfinder in mirror-up mode. This new feature is useful to attain exacting sharpness when shooting slow-shutter landscapes or astrophotography. The shutter unit has also been tested to 200,000 cycles for years of maximum reliability. For further durability, the body of the D810 has been thoroughly sealed and gasketed to resist the elements, reinforcing this camera’s role in extreme production environments.
Superior System Support
Such extreme resolution requires that no compromise be made on glass, and NIKKOR lenses are the perfect choice to complement the D810. With more than 80 FX and DX-format lenses available, NIKKOR lenses offer the ultimate in image quality with sharpness and faithful color representation that is second to none. To light a scene imaginatively, the D810 has a built-in flash and is compatible with Nikon's acclaimed Creative Lighting System, including a built-in Commander mode for controlling wireless Speedlights. The MB-D12 battery grip is also available to give users both extra grip and extra power when it is needed most.
For wireless control, the D810 is compatible with a full range of Nikon’s remote systems, including the new wireless remote system with the WR-1 to trigger the camera remotely. This system uses radio frequency rather than infrared, eliminating the need for line of sight communication.
Nikon will also be making a Software Developers Kit (SDK) available in the near future for the D810. This SDK will give third party developers the resources needed to create applications and enhance the flexibility of the D810.
Robust New Software Suite: Nikon Capture NX-D
Capture NX-D is Nikon’s new software for processing and adjusting RAW images captured with Nikon digital cameras. Capture NX-D is a free software application that will replace the current Capture NX 2 program, and adds interface and performance enhancements. In addition to RAW images, the program can also be used to adjust JPEG and TIFF files. This new software will support many functions needed by professional photographers, including batch image processing, filtering and an enhanced user interface with a variety of displays and floating palettes that are ideal for multiple monitors. Additionally, photographers will also have the ability to adjust parameters including exposure and white balance in RAW files, and can adjust tone curves, brightness and contrast, as well as functions for correcting lateral color aberration and vignetting in JPEG and TIFF files. The software also features a new “sidecar” format, which retains and saves the adjusted image as a separate file.
Nikon will also make available at no charge the new Picture Control Utility 2 software. This new software allows users to create custom Picture Control profiles, which can be easily loaded into the camera.
Price and Availability
The Nikon D810 will be available in late July for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $3,299.95. The MB-D12 battery pack is currently available for $616.00 SRP. The new Capture NX-D software package will be available mid-July for download at no additional cost.
Additionally, Nikon will be offering two kits designed for videographers and filmmakers; the D810 Filmmaker’s Kit consists of the D810 body, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G, AF-S NIKKOR 50mmm f/1.8G, AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G lenses, 2 additional EN-EL15 batteries, ME-1 Stereo Microphone, Atomos Ninja-2 External Recorder, and Tiffen 67mm and 58mm Variable Neutral Density Filters (8-Stops). For stop motion applications, the D810 Animator’s Kit features the D810 body, AF-S Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G ED VR lens, EH-5b Power Adapter, EP5B Power Supply Connector and Dragonframe Stop Motion Software plus Dragonframe USB Keypad Controller.
Preorder Opportunities: B&H | Adorama | Amazon
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New Camera Support in Camera Raw 8.5
New Lens Profile Support in Camera Raw 8.5
Mount | Name |
Canon | Sigma 50m F1.4 DG HSM A014 |
Canon | Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM C014 |
Canon | Tamron 16-300mm F3.5-6.3 Dill VC PZD MACRO B0163 |
Nikon | Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f3.5-5.6 PD-ZOOM |
Nikon | Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR |
Nikon | Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014 |
Nikon | Sigma 18-200 F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM C014 |
Nikon | Tamron 16-300mm F3.5-6.3 Dill VC PZD MACRO B016N |
Nikon | Tamron SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD A011N |
Bugs Corrected in Camera Raw 8.5
Known Bug
Customers using the Sony RX100 M3 and capturing images at ISO 125 may find the default rendering in ACR and Lightroom too dark. This is a known issue and we are working to improve this in a future update.
Download Links:
DNG Converter 8.5 – Windows | Macintosh
"Fireworks are one of the most inspiring and photogenic, yet challenging subjects, to capture. And unfortunately, this is one of those shooting situations where fully automatic exposure and focusing may not help. However, with these tricks up your sleeve, a few accessories and a willingness to experiment, you'll capture amazing fireworks photos this Fourth of July!"
Check out the entire article over at the Canon Digital Learning Center.
Also be sure to check out Bryan's own Fireworks Photography Tips.
Yet Another Tip from T-D-P: Use a tripod and mulitple exposures (blended in Photoshop) to create the scene with background/sky detail.
Last year my father and I [Sean] spent Independence Day in Metropolis, IL. The town had a fireworks display right on Ohio River.
We arrived at the event location rather early. I set up a tripod-mounted EOS 7D + EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM and attached a shutter release cable for easy shooting. I took several exposures to ensure I had the framing I wanted. I also loved the color of the sky and was happy to capture a few images of it.
Unfortunately (but predictably), the event staff waited until it was completely dark to start the fireworks display. As there were very few ambient light sources around, the framing I intended was quite meaningless – the setting simply would not be visible in the exposures containing the fireworks (at the lower ISOs I was hoping to use). But then I had an epiphany...
I shot about 70-80 images of the fireworks with an exposure that left me with completely black background but with good looking fireworks bursts – f/8, 4-6 seconds, ISO 200.
After the fireworks were finished I sorted through them and picked out the best sky/background exposure and my favorite fireworks burst images. I used the Lighten blend mode for the fireworks images and layered several on top of my base image. The end result appears at the top of this post.
In hindsight, I should have captured several varying exposures of my base image so that I could have retained detail in the trees and water (through blending the various images). But otherwise, I was happy with how it turned out.
And technically speaking, you could do this in-camera using the EOS 1-series, 5D Mark III or 6D's Mulitple Exposure feature. However, I prefer the post-processing method as it reduces the complexity of capturing images during the event.
Questions or commnets? Additional tips? Leave them in the comments section below.
If you have a camera with the multiple exposure feature and you've never used it, there's no better time than now to start exploring the creative possibilities!
B&H carries the Canon EOS 6D.
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