Canon, Nikon, and Sony News for Jul 2019

Choose your laptop deal:
 
B&H has the Apple 13.3" MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (Mid 2018, Space Gray) on sale for $1,549, $250 off until 8/30 or while supplies last.
 
B&H has the Microsoft 12.3" Multi-Touch Surface Pro 6 with Black Surface Pro Type Cover (Platinum) on sale for $799, $230 off while supplies last.

B&H has the SanDisk Extreme Portable USB 3.1 Type-C External SSD (250GB, 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB) on sale with instant savings up to $280 (over 50%) on the 2TB model.

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs and measurements have been added to the Tamron 35-150mm f/2.8-4 Di VC OSD Lens page.
 
Create comparisons – share with your friends.
 
The Tamron 35-150mm f/2.8-4 Di VC OSD Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
Rent the Tamron 35-150mm f/2.8-4 Di VC OSD Lens from Lensrentals.

From Nikon USA:
 
The NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Delivers Gorgeous, Natural Bokeh and Remarkable Edge-to-Edge Sharpness for Crisp Portraits and Dramatic Video
 
MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens, bringing a fast prime with a classic medium telephoto focal length to Z series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Ideal for headshots, fashion, wedding/event photography and tight video shots, the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S is designed to take full advantage of the wider, brighter and faster Z mount. This new addition to the S-Line delivers exceptional sharpness all the way to the corners of the frame, even at f/1.8, while integrating the latest NIKKOR optical technologies for intense rendering capability. Nikon Z series photographers and videographers who want to bring striking clarity to a subject’s eyes or who demand shallow depth of field and beautiful, natural bokeh will find the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S a welcome addition to their kit.
 
“The NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens is so sharp, yet the background blur is so natural; the incredible detail captured with this lens is nothing short of striking,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “For fashion and portrait photographers, to wedding shooters and all types of videographers, now is the time to discover why the new NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 will be an indispensable asset for those creatives who are familiar with the outstanding performance of the Nikon Z series.”
 
NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S
 
With the addition of the new 85mm f/1.8 S, Nikon Z series photo and video shooters now have a native Z mount option for capturing incredible portraits, fashion photography, event images, tight interview shots or B-roll footage that add emphasis to any scene. This is also the latest lens to join the NIKKOR S-Line, representing pinnacle in optical superiority and construction.
 
The NIKKOR Z 85mm’s fast f/1.8 maximum aperture allows users to confidently shoot in low light and capture gorgeous, shallow depth of field that adds dimensionality and character to high-resolution images and 4K video footage alike. Helping to provide a natural look is a lens diaphragm consisting of nine rounded blades, which produce smooth, natural bokeh that gently leads the viewer’s eye to the subject of the frame. With the addition of Eye-Detection autofocus included in the recent release of Firmware 2.0, the Nikon Z series cameras and NIKKOR Z lenses offer even more control and capabilities when capturing stunning portraits and candids.
 
This lens uses an all-new optical design of 12 elements in 8 groups and features the industry-leading lens technology consumers have come to expect from NIKKOR glass. Two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) elements help ensure minimal aberration, while Nikon’s patented Nano Crystal Coating offers superior control of ghosting and flare. Additionally, the high-speed Multi-Focus System realizes superior resolving power at minimum focus distance. These cutting-edge features are protected from the elements by Nikon’s professional-grade dust and drip resistance.
 
As with all NIKKOR Z S-Line lenses, the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S is crafted to cater to the needs of videographers as well as image-makers. The lens features ultra-quiet focus motors, minimized focus breathing, a customizable control ring for smooth adjustment of aperture or exposure compensation, and full compatibility with the in-body 5-axis VR found in the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7 full-frame mirrorless cameras.
 
NIKKOR Z S-Line
 
The NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S joins the superb “S-Line” of NIKKOR Z lenses. Designed alongside the revolutionary Nikon Z mount system, S-Line lenses boast superior resolution, beautiful bokeh rendition, exceptional point-image reproduction, enhanced video recording performance and unmatched edge-to-edge sharpness, even when shooting at the maximum aperture.
 
Born out of Nikon’s heritage of optical excellence, the S-Line sits at the cutting edge of imaging technology and innovation and represents a new potential for image expression.
 
Price and Availability
 
The NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S will be available in September 2019 at a suggested retail price (SRP) of $799.95.
 
Preorders: Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S - B&H | Adorama | Amazon US

B&H has the Impact 20" Beauty Dish Kit for Speedlights available for $64.55 with free expedited shipping. Regularly $116.71.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Reflector Adapter for Speedlights
• Speed Ring for Impact Monolights
• S-Type Speed Ring also Fits Other Brands
• White Interior Beauty Dish
• Soft but Crisp Light Quality
• Offers Contrast and Texture
• Natural Catchlights in Subject's Eyes
• Optional 40° Grid and Diffuser Sock
• Use with Flash or Hot Lights up to 300W
• White Interior Renders Neutral Color

From Nikon:
 
Nikon Z 7/Z 6 Firmware v.2.01
 
Changes from “C” Firmware Version 2.00 to 2.01:
 
Fixed the following issues:
 

• If the camera detected faces during still photography or movie recording at the settings listed below, it would in very rare instances begin to respond more slowly, display an error, or stop responding altogether.
• Stills - Auto-area AF selected for AF-area mode in the PHOTO SHOOTING MENU
• Stills - Face and eye detection on or Face detection on selected for Custom Setting a4 (Auto-area AF face/eye detection) in the CUSTOM SETTING MENU
• Movie - Auto-area AF selected for AF-area mode in the MOVIE SHOOTING MENU
• Movie - Face and eye detection on or Face detection on selected for Custom Setting a4 (Auto-area AF face/eye detection) in the CUSTOM SETTING MENU
• In very rare instances, the bottoms of pictures taken with all the following settings in effect would not appear as expected:
• Mode dial rotated to AUTO, P, or A
• An NEF (RAW) option selected for Image quality in the PHOTO SHOOTING MENU
• 14-bit selected for NEF (RAW) recording > NEF (RAW) bit depth in the PHOTO SHOOTING MENU
• Auto selected for Custom Setting d5 (Shutter type) in the CUSTOM SETTING MENU
• Continuous H (extended) release mode selected with the release mode/self-timer button

Download: Nikon Z 7 Firmware v.2.01 | Nikon Z 6 Firmware v.2.01
 
B&H carries the Nikon Z 7 and Z 6.

B&H has the Lastolite Magnetic Background Support - 24.8" available for $84.44 with free expedited shipping. Regularly $94.88.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Attaches Collapsible Background to Stand

If you use collapsible backgrounds, this tool will be a surprisingly convenient and useful. I purchased one several years ago and still use it often. [Sean]
 

B&H has the Billingham Hadley One Camera Bag (Khaki FibreNyte with Chocolate Leather) available for $299.00 with free expedited shipping. Regularly $399.00.
 
The Black and Sage versions of this bag are also discounted.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Holds DSLR, Two Lenses, Flash
• Padded Sleeve for a 13" MacBook Pro
• Removable, Half-Length Insert & Divider
• Padded Flap for Insert & Top Rain Flap
• Dual, Expandable Front Pockets
• Water-Resistant, Rear Zip Pocket
• FibreNyte Leather Accents Brass Hardware
• Removable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
• Luggage Trolley Strap & Top Handle
• Made in the UK

Through midnight tonight Eastern Time, B&H has the Core SWX Fleet Q Gold Mount Four-Position Charger available for $449.00 with free shipping. Regularly $749.00.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Gold Mount Charger
• Charge Current: 3A
• Charge Four 98Wh Batteries in 2.5 h
• Red and Green LED Indicators

See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals for excellent savings opportunities.

Through midnight tonight Eastern Time, B&H has the Aputure Amaran H198C On-Camera LED Light available for $29.00 with free shipping. Regularly $59.00.
 
Product Highlights
 

• 198 LEDs with 60° Beam Angle
• Bi-Color Light
• 420 - 435 Lux Brightness at 3.3'
• Onboard Dimming Control
• 10W Maximum Power Draw
• Accepts Sony NP-Style or 6 AA Batteries
• Battery Power Indicator Lights
• Slots for Connecting Multiple Panels
• Swivel Shoe Mount
• Diffusion Filter

See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals for excellent savings opportunities.

If you photograph outdoors, now is the time to start thinking about fall photography opportunities and there are few better places to be in the fall than Acadia National Park. Consider joining a small group of enthusiastic photographers in this bucket-list-grade location from Tue, Oct 15 through Sun, Oct 20, 2019. Sign up now – only two spots remain open.
 
Hare are the details: Fall Landscape in Acadia National Park Instructional Photography Tour
 
Contact me now to sign up!

Through tomorrow, you can save up to $60.00 on MindShiftGear's BackLight backpacks at Think Tank Photo and B&H.
 
Discounted backpacks include the MindShiftGear BackLight 18L, 26L, 36L and Elite 45L models.

 
From the B&H YouTube Channel:
 
In this 6th video in our audio-for-video series, AB gives us a simple introduction to audio post production, highlighting the different steps of treating your audio once you’re done shooting your video. From naming your files correctly to thinking about your final output levels, this video will give you a general sense of the common practices used to get your audio sounding just right. Check it out!
 

• Part 1 – Basic Tips for Recording Audio for Video
• Part 2 – Choosing a Mic for Video Production
• Part 3 – How to Get Great Audio Levels
• Part 4 – Recording Sound to Your Camera vs. an Audio Recorder
• Part 5 - Mic Techniques

B&H has Lensbaby lenses for Canon RF and Nikon Z-mount cameras in stock with free shipping.
 
Lenses in the new mounts include Velvet 56/85mm, Trio, Sol 45, and Composer Pro II with Edge 35/50 and Sweet 35/50 Optics.

B&H has the Senal SCI-3212 Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Capsules available for $39.95 with free shipping. Compare at $99.95.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
• Three Interchangeable Capsules
• Omni, Cardioid & Supercardioid Capsules
• Suitable Sound for Field or Studio

B&H has the Rhino Camera Gear Essentials Slider Bundle available for $740.00 with free shipping. Compare at $1,140.00.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Motorized Slider System
• Rhino Slider EVO Carbon
• 24" Carbon Fiber Rails
• 15 lb Load Capacity

Don't need an automated setup? The Sevenoak Carbon Fiber Slider Pro is also nicely discounted.

From Lensbaby:
 
Attention all Nikon Z & Canon R shooters!
 
Add the creative power of Lensbaby to your mirrorless camera! We're now making many of our most popular lenses — Composer Pro II Optic Swap System, Velvet 56 & 85, Sol 45 & 22, and Trio 28 — in native Nikon Z and Canon R mounts.
 
Preorder your Lensbaby Now for Delivery Soon — B&H indicates "Expected availability: Aug 2, 2019"):
 
Canon RF: B&H | Adorama
 
Nikon Z: B&H | Adorama
 
Other mounts already available: B&H | Adorama

Just posted: Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens Review.
 
Meet your new favorite portrait lens.
 
The Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX
 
Rent the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens from Lensrentals.

It's time to rent something — use coupon code B2SCHOOL (one use per customer) at LensRentals.com to save 15% on orders arriving by 8/2/2019.

B&H has the Refurbished Nikon Z 6 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 24-70mm Lens available for $1,799.00 with free expedited shipping. Compare at $2,396.95 new afte $200.00 instant savings.
 
Product Highlights
 

• 24.5MP FX-Format BSI CMOS Sensor
• EXPEED 6 Image Processing Engine
• UHD 4K30 Video; N-Log & 10-Bit HDMI Out
• 273-Point Phase-Detect AF System

From Pelican:
 
Torrance, CA - Users no longer have to choose between the versatility of the TrekPak divider system or the protection of Pick N Pluck foam with the new Pelican Hybrid Cases. Available as a new standard offering in either the Pelican 1510 or Pelican Air 1535 Carry On Case, the interior features both the TrekPak system and the classic Pick N Pluck manually customizable foam.
 
“This new, extremely versatile configuration offers users the best of both worlds and a host of new organizational options,” said John Luna, Director of Commercial/Government Product Management, Pelican Products, Inc.
 
TrekPak Divider System
 
Case owners simply need to lay out their gear the way they wish for it to appear in the case, measure and cut the divider sections, and lock them in place with the provided U-pins. Each divider section is manufactured from a waterproof, closed-cell foam that is laminated to a rigid corrugated plastic panel. They are light weight, strong and almost impossible to tear or shred. Additional divider panels are available separately to switch up the layout any time.
 
Pick N Pluck Foam
 
Classic and simple Pick N Pluck foam is pre-scored and cubed for easy manual customization and offered standard in almost all Pelican case models. Replacement foam is available separately when the interior layout changes.
 
The Pelican Air 1535 Carry On case is engineered with a next generation polymer construction that is up to 40% lighter than standard Pelican Protector Case brand cases, yet still stands up to the harshest conditions on earth. It also features a removable rugged ID card holder. Since its introduction in 2004, the Pelican 1510 Carry On case has been the industry standard for travelling with sensitive equipment that users don’t want to check in. Its extremely tough polymer construction protects mission critical equipment in worst case scenarios.
 
Both cases sport a sturdy pull handle coupled with smooth stainless steel ball bearing wheels for effortless transport, a polymer O-ring for a dust and water-resistant seal, and an integrated automatic pressure equalization valve that keeps moisture out and prevents vacuum lock, ensuring the case is easier to open at any altitude. Available in black only, both cases are backed by the Pelican Products Legendary Guarantee of Excellence. Pelican Air 1535 Carry On case with hybrid foam MSRP is $324.95 US and the Pelican 1510 Carry On Case with hybrid foam MSRP is $299.95 US.
 
B&H has the Pelican 1535AirTPF Wheeled Carry-On Case with TrekPak Dividers and Pick-n-Pluck Foam available for preorder.

Through midnight tonight Eastern Time, B&H has the Benro FIF28CIB2 Carbon Fiber Transfunctional iFoto Series 2 Tripod Kit available for $199.00 with free shipping. Regularly $379.00.
 
Product Highlights
 

• Load Capacity: 31 lb
• Maximum Height: 65"
• Minimum Height: 18.3"
• Folded Length: 24.6"
• Leg Sections: 4
• Weight: 3.9 lb
• Carbon Fiber Legs
• Reverse-Folding Tripod Legs
• Detachable Monopod Leg
• IB2 Ball Head

See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals for excellent savings opportunities.

Hot Deal: Through midnight tonight Eastern Time, B&H has the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Canon/Nikon (review) available for $1,199.00 with free shipping. Compare at $1,499.00.
 
Product Highlights
 

• EF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
• Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
• Nine FLD Elements, One SLD Element
• Super Multi-Layer Coating
• Hyper Sonic AF Motor
• Intelligent OS Image Stabilization
• Removable Arca-Type Tripod Foot
• Dust- and Moisture-Sealed Construction
• Rounded 11-Blade Diaphragm
• Compatible with Sigma Teleconverters

See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals for excellent savings opportunities.

I should have looked for this deal when I posted the Z 6 deal earlier today. B&H has the Nikon Z 7 Mirrorless Digital Camera with Z 24-70mm f/4 S Lens in refurbished condition (like new with Nikon limited 90-day warranty) for only $2,699.00!
 
Compare at $3,596.95 after $400 instant rebate for a huge $897.95 savings. Note that the new model includes the FTZ Mount Adapter (available in "Slightly Used" condition for $172.50) and B&H has a bundle with additional items.
 
This is a great opportunity to jump into a Nikon mirrorless camera. Again, share this deal post with your friends!

B&H has the Nikon Z 6 Mirrorless Digital Camera with Z 24-70mm f/4 S Lens in refurbished condition (like new with Nikon limited 90-day warranty) for only $1,799! Compare at $2,396.95 after $200 instant rebate for a huge $597.95 savings. Note that the new model includes the FTZ Mount Adapter (available in "Slightly Used" condition for $172.50) and B&H has a bundle with additional items.
 
This is a great opportunity to jump into a Nikon mirrorless camera. Share this deal post with your friends!