Canon, Nikon and Sony News for Jan 2016 Report News & Deals  ►

 
Sports and portrait photographer Matt Hernandez offers some lighting and posting tips in these videos (sponsored by Westcott) on capturing professional team portraits.
 

B&H carries the Westcott 7' Parabolic Umbrella (Silver).

Nikon Japan issued a press release yesterday warning of scheduled price increases on DSLR lenses and Speedlites in the Japanese region because of the rising cost of raw materials. Many of the price increases (scheduled for March) are relatively modest, but a few products will see more significant price hikes.
 
Click on the image below to open the .PDF with the exact details on Nikon Japan's revised pricing, or check out the Google Translate version.
 

From the Canon Professional Network:

"British photographer Tim Flach uses his technical and artistic skills to capture almost-human moments from a wide variety of creatures. His work helps us look at our animal cousins in more profound ways, as he explains to CPN Editor David Corfield..."

See the entire article and intriguing animal images at the Canon Professional Network.

Adobe has released its latest version of Camera RAW which includes a fix for the Sigma 50 ART misidentification bug as well as a new Boundary Warp feature. [Sean]
 
From Adobe:
 
Camera Raw 9.4 is now available through the update mechanism in Photoshop CC and the Creative Cloud application.
 
As mentioned in an update to our camera support policy here, Camera Raw 9.4 is only available in Photoshop CC or later. Customers using older versions of Photoshop can utilize the DNG Converter for continued camera support.
 
Introducing Boundary Warp
 
Stitched panoramas often have non-rectangular boundaries. There are several ways to handle irregular boundaries. The most common approach is to apply a rectangular crop. This is straightforward, but important image details near the boundary may be lost due to cropping. Another approach is to use Content Aware Fill (in Photoshop) to fill in the transparent areas outside the boundary. This can be effective, but may require multiple attempts to obtain a satisfying (smooth, artifact-free) result. It can also be expensive and requires rendering out the panorama to an output-referred format. Boundary Warp is a feature that provides another approach to handling the irregular boundary of panoramas. The feature analyzes the boundary and warps the image so that its edges fit a rectangular frame. Here’s a visual example of the feature:
 

New Camera Support in Camera Raw 9.4
 

• Fujifilm X70
• Fujifilm X-E2S
• Fujifilm X-Pro2
• Leica M (Typ 262)
• Leica X-U (Typ 113)
• Panasonic DMC-ZS60 (DMC-TZ80, DMC-TZ81, DMC-TZ85)
• Phase One IQ150
• Sony ILCA-68 (A68)

Additional Updates in Camera Raw 9.4
 

• Nikon 1 J4 Camera matching profile support added
• The panorama merging process should complete roughly twice as fast as ACR 6.3
• Improved quality when applying Auto Straighten and Upright “Level” mode.
• Metadata is added to merged panoramas to support Photoshop’s Adaptive Wide Angle filter
• DNG Converter 9.4 now supports HiDPI displays on Mac

New Lens Profile Support in Camera Raw 9.4
 

Mount	Name
Canon EF	Bower 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Bower 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC CS
Canon EF	Bower 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Bower 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Bower 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Rokinon 10mm f/2.8 ED AS NCS CS
Canon EF	Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Rokinon 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC CS
Canon EF	Rokinon 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Rokinon 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Samyang 10mm f/2.8 ED AS NCS CS
Canon EF	Samyang 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Samyang 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC CS
Canon EF	Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Samyang 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF	Samyang 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF-M	Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM
Canon EF-M	Rokinon 8mm f/2.8 UMC Fisheye
Canon EF-M	Rokinon 8mm f/2.8 UMC Fisheye II
Canon EF-M	Rokinon 12mm f/2 NCS CS
Canon EF-M	Rokinon 50mm f/1.2 AS UMC CS
Canon EF-M	Samyang 8mm f/2.8 UMC Fisheye
Canon EF-M	Samyang 8mm f/2.8 UMC Fisheye II
Canon EF-M	Samyang 12mm f/2 NCS CS
Canon EF-M	Samyang 12mm f/2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye
Canon EF-M	Samyang 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Canon EF-M	Samyang 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Canon EF-M	Samyang 50mm f/1.2 AS UMC CS
Canon EF-M	Samyang 50mm f/1.4 AS UMC
Nikon F	Bower 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Bower 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC CS
Nikon F	Bower 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Bower 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Bower 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II
Nikon F	Rokinon 10mm f/2.8 ED AS NCS CS
Nikon F	Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Rokinon 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC CS
Nikon F	Rokinon 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Rokinon 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Samyang 10mm f/2.8 ED AS NCS CS
Nikon F	Samyang 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Samyang 16mm f/2 ED AS UMC CS
Nikon F	Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Samyang 35mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC
Nikon F	Samyang 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC

For a full list of the new lens profiles, click here.
 
Fixed Bugs and Other Changes:
 

• Fixed issue where vertical panoramas created using Merge could appear with the wrong orientation.
• Addressed a bug that would ignore model-specific custom default settings for some cameras, including some Leica and Sony models.
• Corrected occasional crash using Crop tool after a Merge operation completed.
• Fixed an issue where state of HSL controls would be rendered incorrectly in GPU mode when applying Contrast or Saturation local control adjustments.
• Addressed the issue of the SIGMA 50mm f1.4 ART lens incorrectly identified as Zeiss Milvus 50mm f1.4.

Download Links
 
Camera Raw 9.4 – Please select Help>Updates to use the update mechanism in the Creative Cloud app.
 
Direct download links: Mac | Win
 
Please note – If you have trouble updating to the latest ACR update via the Creative Cloud application, please refer to the following plugin installation:
 
http://helpx.adobe.com/x-productkb/multi/camera-raw-plug-in-installer.html
 
DNG Converter 9.4: Mac | Win

Like the Nikon D3300, the D5300 and D5500 have recieved firmware v.1.01 updates to address similar issues.
 
Nikon D5300
 
Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.00 to 1.01
 

• AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G lenses are now supported. Vibration reduction can be enabled or disabled using the new Optical VR option in the photo SHOOTING MENU, which is displayed when an AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is attached.
• The following issues have been addressed:
• Choosing negative values for Exposure compensation in the RETOUCH MENU > NEF (RAW) processing display did not have the desired effect.
• Continued scrolling of the menus for some languages would cause the camera to freeze.

Download: Nikon D5300 Firmware v.1.01
 

---

Nikon D5500
 
Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.00 to 1.01
 

• AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G lenses are now supported. Vibration reduction can be enabled or disabled using the new Optical VR option in the photo SHOOTING MENU, which is displayed when an AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is attached. The CUSTOM SETTING MENU now contains an a5 Manual focus ring in AF mode option that can be enabled or disabled when an AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G VR or AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55?mm f/3.5-5.6G is attached.
• The following issues have been addressed:
• Noise would occur at four-second intervals in audio output to external recorders connected via HDMI in movie live view.
• Choosing negative values for Exposure compensation in the RETOUCH MENU > NEF (RAW) processing display did not have the desired effect.
• Selecting ON for Exposure smoothing during interval timer photography would result in all shots after the first being overexposed.

Download: Nikon D5500 Firmware v.1.01
 
B&H carries the Nikon D5300 and D5500.

From Nikon USA:
 
You’re invited to the DSLR event of the year!
 
Come experience the future of DSLR performance.
 
You’re invited to join us at select Nikon dealers nationwide and be among the first to experience Nikon’s thrilling new flagships, the D5 and D500. These game-changing DSLRs introduce a new era of speed, accuracy, image quality, video capabilities and low-light performance. Test drive the cameras, speak with Nikon product experts, dealer staff, fellow photographers and more.
 
Seating is limited at each event, so don’t miss out!
 
receive a special gift exclusive to this event!
 
Sign up to attend an event.
 
B&H has the Nikon D5 and D500 available for preorder.

From Dubai360:

Burj Khalifa Pinnacle 45 Gigapixels
 
"To celebrate the 1 year anniversary of Dubai 360 going live, we are delighted to present to you a new record breaking gigapixel from the pinnacle of the Burj Khalifa! Now 45 Gigapixels in size - the largest photograph ever taken in Dubai - you can explore Dubai in more detail than ever before.
 
The Burj Khalifa is the ultimate symbol of Dubai’s growth and ambition. It’s a towering icon rising 2,722 feet that dominates the city skyline – and a dazzling architectural wonder, which affords the ultimate view of a bustling metropolis. The skyscraper, which officially opened on January 4, 2010, rises above it all. Soaring 160 stories, its record-breaking achievements include the world’s tallest building and highest outdoor observation deck. Step inside this centerpiece of Downtown Dubai to explore the At The Top observation decks; dine at the exclusive At.mosphere; and stay in the signature Armani hotel. Or, explore this panoramic view from the pinnacle of the tower – which has a symmetrical three-petal footprint based on the desert flower hymenocallis – and witness a skyline that blends nature and engineering, history and the future.
 
From the azure shores of the Arabian Gulf to the man-made waterways and Palm islands, from the timeless beauty of Bastakiya to the distinctive sail-shaped Burj al Arab – this view from the very top leaves a lasting impression."

Canon has released their financial results for the 2015 fiscal year. As usual, the presentation material will likely be the easiest method for digesting the information.
 

• Presentation Material for FY 2015 (PDF)
• Results for FY 2015 (PDF)

Just posted: Canon EOS Rebel T6i Review | Canon EOS Rebel T6s Review.
 
I certainly can't claim timeliness on these reviews, but ... I have some insights to share with you including an emphasis on image quality. These are two very good cameras.
 
Note that, since the T6i and T6s are mostly the same, the T6s review focuses exclusively on the model differences.
 
B&H has the Canon EOS Rebel T6i and Canon EOS Rebel T6s in stock with kit instant rebates ranging from $150.00 - $300.00.
 
For a great deal, select one of the with-printer kits to qualify for a $350.00 MIR, bringing the potential rebate total to $650.00. This brings the final camera and lens cost down to as low as $649.00. Use the links above to find these.

From Nikon:
 
Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.00 to 1.01
 

• AF-P DX NIKKOR 18–55?mm f/3.5–5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 18–55?mm f/3.5–5.6G lenses are now supported. Vibration reduction can be enabled or disabled using the new Optical VR option in the photo SHOOTING MENU, which is displayed when an AF-P DX NIKKOR 18–55?mm f/3.5–5.6G VR lens is attached.
• The following issues have been addressed:
• Turning Auto info display off had no effect at focal lengths over 55 mm.
• Choosing negative values for Exposure compensation in the RETOUCH MENU > NEF (RAW) processing display did not have the desired effect.

Download: Nikon D3300 Firmware v.1.01
 
B&H carries the Nikon D3300.

 
From the Karl Taylor YouTube Channel:
 
Make your Sky Outstanding with this Top Photographer Trick! - What I'm going to show you today is how you can enhance the sky in some of your photos. So if you've ever taken a shot but feel the sky needs a lift then this knowledge is for you.
 
I'm using Photoshop and you can apply this technique to any of your photos. You'll probably find that other photo editing software enables you to use the same techniques.
 
The Creative Cloud Photography Plan (Photoshop CC & Lightroom CC) is an excellent value at only $9.99/mo.

 
From the B&H YouTube Channel:
 
Matt Hill's successful Kickstarter campaign in November 2014 raised nearly 200% of the asking pledge goal, and for the first time, shares how he prepared for, ran and fulfilled his Kickstarter fine art photography campaign. He also shares what he would do differently if he were doing it again for the first time.

A recent $200.00 price drop of the DJI Phantom 3 Advanced and Standard models means that investing in a drone is now more economically attractive than ever. However, as a recent drone recipient, let me provide a word of warning – the costs associated with drone ownership may balloon very quickly.
 
For example, you'll likely want a few accessories to go along with your drone. An extra battery, a case, extra props and/or prop guards are all high on the list of must-haves for many new drone owners. So let's look at our total after adding a few accessories at their current cost (subject to change) for the DJI Phantom 3 Advanced/4K as well as the cost of registering the drone:
 

DJI Phantom 3 Advanced (or 4K)	$799.00
DJI Intelligent Flight Battery	$124.99
Nanuk 945 Case for DJI Phantom 3	$179.99
Polar Pro DJI Phantom 3 Professional / Advanced Filter 3-Pack	$69.99
DJI Phantom 3 Prop Guards	$18.59
DJI 9450 Self-Tightening Propeller Set (x3)	$18.00
FAA Drone Registration	$5.00
Total	$1,215.56

Of course, the above totals are only a guide. A different case or a change in the price of the various accessories (a common occurrence, especially with the battery) will cause the total to shift one way or another. And while a new drone owner may not feel that filters are a necessity upon first purchasing the UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System), the filters may become an eventual purchase if not an initial one. Overall, I think the above list is a decent, average representation of desired accessories.
 
As you can see, our $799.00 drone investment has grown by more than 50%. But we're not done yet, not even by a long shot.
 
Being a responsible citizen, you're going to want to purchase insurance – liability, at the very least – for your drone. And that's where the dollar signs really start to add up. Unfortunately, insurance companies want nothing to do with drones. They're simply too risky. So when you find a company that will give you liability insurance covering your drone, it's going to cost you. Note that most photography gear/liability insurance plans will not cover drones without a huge modification to your premiums and deductibles.
 
So how much are we talking about? In my case, even with fairly low-risk usage, the lowest insurance premium I could find – with a $500,000 liability policy (the lowest coverage available) which does not cover gear replacement – was $695.00 per year. And at that price, the company would not allow me to pay monthly, but instead insisted that the total be paid up-front.
 
If that insurance premium total surprises you, you're not alone. I was aghast when my insurance agent told me how much the insurance would be. But keep in mind, that's also a rough number for relatively low-risk commercial use. You may be able to find something less expensive, but your intended usage may cause that figure to go up considerably. And if you want gear coverage too, that premium may seem small by comparison. If you're absolutely sure that your use will be limited to non-commercial purposes, a home owner's insurance policy may cover drone usage at little to no extra cost, which can certainly save you a bundle.
 
So lets look at our investment again, assuming any commercial use:
 

DJI Phantom 3 Advanced (or 4K)	$799.00
DJI Intelligent Flight Battery	$124.99
Nanuk 945 Case for DJI Phantom 3	$179.99
Polar Pro DJI Phantom 3 Professional / Advanced Filter 3-Pack	$69.99
DJI Phantom 3 Prop Guards	$18.59
DJI 9450 Self-Tightening Propeller Set (x3)	$18.00
FAA Drone Registration	$5.00
Liability Insurance ($500,000)	$695.00
Total	$1,905.56

Now our $799.00 drone investment has grown by more than $1,100.00, for a grand total that is significantly more than double the cost of the drone itself. And if you don't currently own video editing software, you can add that to the list too. And if you're recording 4K footage with your drone, you may even need to upgrade various computer components to ease the burden of 4K video editing. As you can see, the costs associated with owning a drone can quickly snowball.
 
Should you still buy a drone? If you have the money to cover the costs, and you're interested in aerial filming/photography, then absolutely. I had so much fun flying the DJI Phantom 3 Advanced this past weekend that the cost seems well worth the investment at this point.
 

But just be warned, your bank account won't likely be flying as high as your new drone.

According to the Egami Blog, Tamron has filed a patent for an 85mm f/1.4 VC optical design. This patent filing makes a lot of sense considering Tamron's newest trend of putting Vibration Control in high quality, wide-aperture primes.
 
Description of Patent
 
Patent Publication No. 2016-12082
 

• Published 2016.1.21
• Filing date 2014.6.30

Example 1
 

• f = 87.5187
• Fno = 1.4578
• ? = 13.8585 °

 
From the Photoshop Blog:
 
To help with your pursuit of Lightroom knowledge and mastery, longtime Lightroom team member Benjamin Warde has rolled up his sleeves to create “Lightroom Coffee Break,” a new bi-monthly video series designed to give you helpful Lightroom tips and tricks in 60 seconds or less. We currently have two videos ready for viewing, but be sure to tune in every other week on YouTube for further servings of Lightroom knowledge, as there are many more to come.
 
The first video in the series can be seen above. The second video is below. [Sean]
 

The Creative Cloud Photography Plan (Photoshop CC & Lightroom CC) is an excellent value at only $9.99/month.