Canon and Sony News for May 2020

Nikon has released its year-end financial results for the year ending March 2020, and from a business standpoint, the results aren't pretty. As usual, the Presentation Material provides an easily digestible overview of the situation (download below or see the Video of the Financial Presentation).
 
From Nikon:
 

• Financial Results (PDF:341KB)
• Financial and Business Data (PDF:366KB)
• Presentation Material (PDF:847KB)
• Financial Results for the year ended March 31, 2020 and Forecasts for the year ending March 31, 2021 (PDF:357KB)
• Progress on Medium-Term Management Plan (PDF:519KB)
• Reference Data (PDF:286KB)

From Lensbaby:
 
Portland, OR – Lensbaby – makers of award-winning DSLR & mirrorless lenses, optics and accessories announces today that it is launching into summer with a creative bang, giving away over $7,500 in prizes in its “#shootextraordinary Summer Giveaway."
 
Michael Anthony, VP of Sales and Marketing, says “As a brand, we feel like now more than ever we have a responsibility to bring some light and inspiration to creatives. This contest is not only about doing something fun, but supercharging someone’s creative life and challenging photographers everywhere to capture the extraordinary.” #shootextraordinary Summer Giveaway partners, along with Lensbaby, include Sony, Holdfast, Level Up, Magmod and SLR Lounge.
 
Entry begins Tuesday, May 26 through June 19th at 11:59 a.m. Winners will be announced on June 20th, the first day of summer. Enter via the contest page here.
 
Grand Prize (One Winner):
 

• $1,000 Lensbaby Gift Card + Lensbaby OMNI Bundle
• $2,500 Sony A7iii + 50mm
• $1,900 Level Up Membership
• $500 Magmod 24” Octo Pro kit
• $450 Holdfast + Fundy Streetwise Bag
• $348 SLR Lounge Premium membership

Additional Prizes:
 

• (3) - $250 Lensbaby.com Gift Cards
• (4) - $100 Lensbaby.com Gift Cards
• (5) - $50 Lensbaby.com Gift Cards

No purchase is necessary to win. Winners will be selected by random draw. Must be 18 to enter. Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash or exchange.
 
Rules & Restrictions

New York, New York – May 28, 2020 – ROKINON has announced its new AF 85mm F1.4 Full Frame Telephoto for Canon RF mount, a groundbreaking and inspired lens with true artistic image quality. It is the fourth RF model with the distinctive ROKINON pedigree. The AF 85mm F1.4 RF is arguably the best value, high performance and affordable AF portrait prime available, superbly suited for both amateurs and professionals.
 
With advanced autofocusing technology, the versatile ROKINON AF 85mm F1.4 RF delivers breathtaking bokeh, impressive image quality and exceptional resolution. Its design incorporates a DLSM (Dual Linear Sonic Motor) that utilizes ultrasonic vibrations to provide fast and silent autofocus performance. Protocols developed specifically for a short telephoto lens precisely control the operation of the DLSM.
 
The ROKINON AF 85mm F1.4 is a perfect match for Canon R mirrorless cameras. Specifically engineered with a shorter flange back length, the resulting reduction in length and weight enhances balance, portability, and user experience. It is a bright spot in the image capture sector, offering advanced still and video features in a superbly crafted package.
 
The optical design of ROKINON's AF 85mm F1.4 RF incorporates special elements (one Extra Low Dispersion (ED) and four High Refractive Index (HRI) special elements.) with UMC coatings, a fast F1.4 maximum aperture, and a rounded nine blade diaphragm. Together, they maximize image quality and contrast even at wide open apertures with exceptionally smooth bokeh. With a ROKINON AF 85mm F1.4 RF lens, you can unleash your creative talents and produce pleasing out-of-focus backgrounds that convey a three dimensional perspective to your portraits.
 
ROKINON autofocus lenses are loaded with features, and the new AF 85mm F1.4 RF is no exception. Weather sealing protects against dust, light rain and moisture. An AF/MF switch allows quick and easy shifting between auto-focus and full manual focus operation, and an internal focusing design eliminates changes in length. The non-rotating 72mm filter mount allows the use of polarizing and other filters that require precise positioning.
 
The ROKINON AF 85mm F1.4 Canon RF lens includes a removable lens hood, reversible for easy storage, along with a soft lens pouch. Available from authorized ROKINON dealers in June with an MSRP of $799.
 
B&H carries ROKINON lenses.

From Canon USA:

YOU ASKED, CANON DELIVERS: THE EOS WEBCAM UTILITY BETA SOFTWARE* NOW AVAILABLE FOR MAC OS1 USERS

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 27, 2020 –– After tens of thousands of downloads and comments from Canon brand loyalists, the EOS Webcam Utility Beta software* has expanded, and is now available for macOS users. Unveiled today by Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, for select EOS Interchangeable Lens Cameras (ILC) and PowerShot cameras, this beta version solution converts a compatible Canon camera into a webcam through a simple USB connection. Users were heard through multiple Canon social media channels, customer comments and media inquiries.

Similar to the Windows operating system version released April 28, the new macOS compatible software solution requires one single USB plug (which may need to be purchased separately) to connect the compatible camera to the computer. Once the software is downloaded and the camera is configured within a video conferencing application, the user will have improved video appearance while participating in video conferencing and virtual meetings.

To learn more, including whether your Canon EOS ILC or PowerShot camera is compatible, and to download the EOS Webcam Utility Beta software for both macOS and Windows, visit Canon.us/eoswebcamutility.

If you’d like to ask questions or provide feedback pertaining to the EOS Webcam Utility Beta software for macOS, please visit our forum, Canon.us/forum-eoswebcamutilitymac.

###

* EOS Webcam Utility Beta software is a Beta version and it may contain errors. This Software is for use in the United States of America only, and will not be supported outside that area.

1 The following macOS versions are supported: macOS 10.15 Catalina, macOS 10.14 Mojave, macOS 10.13 High Sierra

View the step-by-step tutorial.

From Sony:
 
New Video-Forward Design and Compact Body Packed with Advanced Imaging Technology and Easy-to-Use Functionality
 
SAN DIEGO – May 26, 2020 – Sony Electronics Inc. today has announced the new pocket-sized digital camera ZV-1 (hereafter referred as “ZV-1”) – a lightweight, compact “all-in-one” style solution. Designed from the ground up for content creators and vloggers, the ZV-1 combines easy-to-use features with uncompromising imaging technology, making this the perfect tool for any content creator at all skill levels. “Sony’s new ZV-1 was purpose-built to meet the needs and demands of today’s video creators,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president of Imaging Product and Solutions Americas at Sony Electronics. “We are always listening to our customers, and this camera is the result of direct feedback from our extended community. Featuring an innovative design plus many new technologies, settings and modes, it will allow creators to make content in ways they have never been able to before.” The ZV-1 features a 1.0-type stacked Exmor RS® CMOS image sensor with DRAM chip and 24-70mm[i] F1.8-2.8 ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* large-aperture lens creating beautiful background bokeh (background blur), allowing the subject to stand out from the background. The camera locks on to and tracks subjects with high accuracy and speed using Sony’s leading-edge autofocus system. The ZV-1 also includes the latest-generation BIONZ X™ image processor with front-end LSI delivering high resolution as well as low noise for superior image quality. It also combines this exceptional imaging technology with high-quality and versatile audio options. The ZV-1 is Sony’s first compact camera with a side-opening Vari-angle LCD screen, making it easier to compose your shots in selfie mode while connecting external audio accessories. To meet any video need, the ZV-1 contains advanced video features including 4K movie recording[ii] and in-body image stabilization.
 
Meeting the Needs of Today’s Content Creators
 
Quickly Switch Between two modes of Background Bokeh
 
The ZV-1 offers a simple solution to easily switch between two levels of background bokeh while recording. Using the new Background Defocus function, users can rapidly adjust the optical aperture between more and less background defocusing blur without losing focus on the subject. Located on top of the camera, this Bokeh button is easily accessible and makes selfie shooting operation a breeze.
 
Focus on the Subject You Want
 
The ZV-1 makes it easier than ever to shoot product reviews and similar video content. Gone are the days of placing a hand behind an object to prompt the camera to bring it into focus thanks to a new Product Showcase Setting, which allows for quick and smooth focus transitions between the subject’s face and the object placed in front of the lens. Building on the leading-edge technology developed for a™ (Alpha brand) and RX series cameras, this new compact camera includes advanced autofocus (AF) allowing it to lock on and track subjects with high accuracy and speed while recording. For maintaining focus on the intended subject or subjects in busy environments, Real-time Eye AF[iii] and Real-time Tracking AF for video allows the ZV-1 to seamlessly switch focus between multiple subjects while controlling the AF speed and tracking sensitivity.
 
Prioritize Your Face
 
Extreme changes in lighting, like walking outside on a sunny day and suddenly moving from a bright location into shade, are no problem for the ZV-1 thanks to the new Face Priority autoexposure (AE) function. It detects and prioritizes the subject’s face and adjusts the exposure to ensure the face is depicted at an ideal brightness in any environment. This AE technology also suppresses an abrupt change in exposure if the subject quickly turns away from the frame to eliminate unexpected blown-out or extremely dark shots. In addition, the camera features a new advanced color science that has been re-engineered to optimize skin tones for any subject in both still and video modes.
 
Crystal Clear Audio
 
High quality content requires clear, excellent audio quality, and the ZV-1 is well-equipped to produce just that with reliable and versatile audio options. The ZV-1’s onboard mic features Sony’s latest Directional 3-capsule Mic which was designed for forward-directional audio capture, allowing for clear capture of the subject’s voice while minimizing background noise, especially when operating in selfie mode. For added flexibility, the ZV-1 also features an industry standard mic jack (3.5mm) and Multi Interface Shoe™ (MI shoe) making it easy to connect a wide range of external microphones. The ZV-1 is also supplied with a wind screen[iv] accessory that fits on the MI shoe to minimize wind interference.
 
Design and Functionality Optimized for Vlogging
 
The ZV-1 was designed with content creators and vloggers in mind. This compact, lightweight (approx. 294g / 105.5mm x 60.0mm x 43.5mm) camera is the first Sony compact camera with a flip-out, tiltable LCD Screen, allowing creators to simplify their setup by utilizing the MI shoe for optional external mics without the need of an additional mounting bracket. Comfortably operate the ZV-1 with one hand thanks to the easy-to-hold comfortable grip and a large movie REC button located on the top of the camera for quick access to video recording, as well as a recording lamp on the front of the camera that indicates if the camera is actively recording.
 
The ZV-1 also includes advances in image stabilization, ensuring steady video even when shooting hand-held while walking. When recording in HD (Active mode), optical and electronic stabilization methods are combined to reduce shaking up to 11 times[v] that of standard SteadyShot™ image stabilization. When shooting 4K video using Optical SteadyShot (Active mode), there is improvement in stabilization effect of up to 8 times[vi] that of standard SteadyShot. The ZV-1 is also compatible with the GP-VPT2BT Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander, offering additional stability and comfort combined with cable-free Bluetooth® connectivity.
 
Class-Leading AV Features
 
Despite the small form factor there are a multitude of pro-level movie making capabilities, including:
 

• 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning in high bit rate XAVC S™ codec. [vii]
• Industry standard 3.5mm microphone input
• Hybrid Log-Gamma (HDR) [viii] / S-Gamut3.Cine / S-Log3, S-Gamut3 / S-Log3
• Interval Shooting[ix] for stunning time-lapse videos[x]
• Super Slow Motion[xi] recording at up to 960fps[xii]
• Compatibility with ‘Movie Edit add-on[xiii]’ from the “Imaging Edge™” mobile application for image stabilization while editing[xiv] Highlight ability to edit aspect ratios for IG etc.

Live Streaming with the ZV-1
 
Transform the ZV-1 into a webcam by connecting it to a PC[xv] via USB, which allows content creators to interact with their followers in real-time while also utilizing the advanced imaging technology and unique features of the ZV-1. Sony’s new PC software will be available in July 2020.
 
New Vlogger Accessories Kit
 
Sony will also be introducing a Vlogger Kit (ACCVC1), which includes a GP-VPT2BT Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander and 64GB Ultra High Speed Media Card. The grip is compatible with a variety of Sony cameras[xvi]. Pair this kit with an external microphone (sold separately), such as Sony’s Stereo Microphone (ECM-XYST1M), for a convenient and simple vlogging setup.
 
Pricing and Availability
 
The Digital Camera ZV-1 will be available in June 2020 for a special introductory price of approximately $749 USD through June 28, 2020. After that, the price will increase to approximately $799 USD. The ZV-1 will be available in Canada for approximately $999 CAD.
 
The ACCVC1 Vlogger Kit will be available in June 2020 with a special introductory offer of $50 off when purchased together with ZV-1 (at participating retailers) through June 28, 2020 in U.S. and June 25, 2020 in Canada, and can be purchased separately for approximately $149 USD and $199 CAD.
 
Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new camera and Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony’s a - Alpha brand.
 
Preorder: B&H | Adorama

From SIGMA:
 
Thank you for purchasing and using our products.
 
We are pleased to announce that a new firmware update for the SIGMA 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art for Sony E-mount is now available.
 
Applicable product
 

• SIGMA 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art for Sony E-mount

Benefit of the update
 

• It has helped improve the camera’s Peripheral shading functionality to reduce vignetting.
• It has improved a rarely-occurring ‘blinking’ phenomenon during movie shooting.

To update the firmware, please refer to this link.
 
For further information, please contact your nearest authorized SIGMA subsidiary / distributor. We appreciate your continued support for our company and products.

Just posted: Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter Review.

Sometimes, using a 2x is the right option.

The Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter Review.

This is a high-performing compact teleconverter that makes a great addition to a kit that includes one of the compatible Sony telephoto lenses.

The Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Roger Cicala and the team over at LensRentals recently disassembled a Nikon AF-S Nikkor 120-300mm f/2.8 FL ED SR VR to remove dust from within the lens. Here's a summary of what they found:

So, What Did We Learn Today?
 
First, like every law, Roger’s Law that Zooms Are Never as Good as Primes has at least one very expensive exception. At one of its focal lengths. This zoom is ‘prime good’ at 300mm.
 
Second, we learned that the Nikkor AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8 lens is spectacularly good optically, particularly at the long end, which is probably the most important place to be spectacularly good optically.
 
Third, we learned that Nikon F lenses, at least at this point in time, are not incorporating the new electrical and mechanical designs of the Z lenses. This probably matters to Nikon F shooters not at all since this is the same technology their other lenses use. It matters a bit to us, who will work on them. At no time during this teardown were the words “Elegant Engineering” ever spoken.
 
What does it mean, though? That’s just speculation. Creating a lens takes several years, so this is a look at what Nikon was doing a few years ago. I don’t know, and neither do you (unless you’re reading this post from Nikon Corporate HQ, in which case feel free to leave a comment).
 
Perhaps Nikon will merge lens technologies in the future. Maybe they will maintain separate design and manufacturing teams for as long as they continue to make F-mount lenses.

See the entire illustrated disassmbly here.

 
From the Adobe Photoshop YouTube Channel:
 
Learn how to improve your layer effects and styles with these 10 tips. For more in-depth tutorials, training, techniques, and shortcuts for working with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, check out Julieanne’s blog.
 
B&H carries Adobe Photography Plan subscriptions.

From Nikon on May 12, 2020:
 
NIKON CORPORATION (hereinafter “the Company”) expects to post extraordinary losses and to reverse a part of deferred tax assets in its non-consolidated financial statements, which are prepared in accordance with Japanese GAAP, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
 
Using the future plan that reflects the impact and more caused by the spread of COVID-19 to business activities, the Company has assessed an indication that fixed assets may be impaired, performed valuation of financial assets, and examined the recoverability of deferred tax assets.
 
As a result, the Company has decided to post an impairment loss of 5.7 billion yen for the fixed assets held by Imaging Product Business. And for Nikon Metrology NV, the Company’s consolidated subsidiary, a loss on valuation of the investments in subsidiaries and affiliates and provision for loss on business of subsidiaries and affiliates will be recognized 6.7 billion yen and 9.2 billion yen, respectively. The Company has also decided to reverse a part of deferred tax assets and post deferred tax expenses of 20.6 billion yen. However, the losses associated with the subsidiary mentioned above will have no impact on the consolidated financial results, as those losses will be eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.

From Tamron:
 
Notice about 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056) Operation
 
Dear Tamron product users and potential purchasers. Thank you for your interest in Tamron products.
 
We would like to announce that we found some issues with our new lens, 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056) for SONY mirrorless cameras, which will be released on May 14, 2020.
 
Symptom
 

• A malfunction of Inner body image stabilizer occurs when used at about 70-85mm focal length and at more than 5.5m of object distance.

Applicable camera models: a7 II
 
Please turn the inner body image stabilizer function “OFF” when you use this lens at less than an 85mm focal length.
 

• When you use flashes, there is a delay from the time the shutter button is pressed to the time the shutter and the flash release.

Applicable camera models: a7, a7 II, a7R, a7R II, a7S, a7S II, a5000, a5100, a6000 a6300, a6500, NEX-3N, NEX-5R, NEX-5T, NEX-7, NEX-F3, NEX-6
 
We are currently working on the cause of the error and expect this to be solved with a firmware update. Early June is the target date for the release of the firmware update.
 
Regarding the firmware updating process, please be assured that the process is accomplished directly through the SONY camera and supported by the Sony firmware updating function. As soon as the process is finalized, we will explain the process in detail on our website.
 
We sincerely apologize to all users and potential purchasers for any inconvenience this issue may cause.
 

Notice about 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A046) Operation
 
Dear Tamron product users and potential purchasers.
 
Thank you for your interest in Tamron products.
 
We would like to announce that we found an issue with our 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A046) for SONY mirrorless cameras.
 
Symptom
 

• When you use flashes, there is a delay from the time the shutter button is pressed to the time the shutter and the flash release.

Applicable camera models: a7, a7 II, a7R, a7R II, a7S, a7SII, a5000, a5100, a6000, a6300, a6500, NEX-3N, NEX-5R, NEX-5T, NEX-7, NEX-F3, NEX-6
 
We are currently working on the cause of the error and for the solution to this matter. We expect this issue to be resolved very shortly and we will release a firmware update at that time.
 
Regarding the firmware updating process, please be assured that the process is accomplished directly through the SONY camera and supported by the Sony firmware updating function. As soon as the process is finalized, we will explain the process in detail on our website.
 
We sincerely apologize to all users and potential purchasers for any inconvenience this issue may cause.

Just posted: Robus RCM-439 Carbon Fiber Monopod Review.

No-brainer. Just get one.

The Robus RCM-439 Carbon Fiber Monopod is in stock at B&H and Amazon USA.

Please share!

Just posted: Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS Lens Review.

This is a useful lens to have available in the kit.

The Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS Lens is in stock at B&H (new or used) | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

I've wanted to refresh the site's logo for a long time and recently was able to make that happen. I know, this isn't the most timely post (the new logo went up a bit over a week ago), but for those who have not been on the site for the last week, check it out.

Additional (ongoing) site changes have also been made, primarily to improve the mobile experience. There's always much more to do.

 
From the Adorama YouTube Channel:
 
Feathering a light is so much more than simply turning it away from your subject. In this video photographer, Gavin Hoey takes you through why feathering light is an essential studio lighting skill and how he uses it to control light in his small home studio.
 
Although the most common way to feather a light is to move it horizontally, Gavin also shows you how vertical feathering can open up more lighting options. He also bursts a popular portrait myth that feathering a light will give a softer light.
 
Products used:
 

• Flashpont Xplor 400
• Glow EZ Lock 24x36" Softbox
• Flashpoint 10’ C-Stand

 
From the Adorama YouTube Channel:
 
In this video, Pye shows you 5 great tips for photographing portrait subjects in urban locations using nothing but natural light. You can create these shots using any gear!
 
Production Equipment Used:
 

• Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
• Sigma 50mm Art f/1.4

Ending tomorrow, 5/10: The Canon Refurbished Gear Sale has all refurbished gear (excluding EOS-1D series) reduced by an extra 10%. Get free shipping on orders over $100.

Expect Canon refurbished gear to be in like-new condition with a same-as-new warranty. This gear is a great deal anytime but it is an awesome deal at 10% off. The hottest models will sell out fast – shop now:

Cameras | Lenses | Flashes

From Nikon USA:
 
MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the retail availability of the new Nikon D6 DSLR, which was unveiled in February of this year. The D6 will be available in the U.S. starting on Thursday, May 21 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $6,499.95* for the body-only configuration.
 
Whether on an assignment or in the studio, Nikon’s flagship D6 DSLR always delivers. The D6 incorporates Nikon’s most powerful AF to date, featuring a high-density system with 105 selectable cross-type AF points to help capture pivotal moments again and again, even in the most challenging conditions and environments. Since every second counts, the uncompromising D6 incorporates important upgrades to enhance photographers’ workflow and accelerate file transfer capabilities, offering time-saving and customizable options during and after capture. Additionally, the D6 offers robust reliability, unrivaled low-light capability, amazing versatility, 4K UHD multimedia capabilities and a mechanical shutter frame rate that can capture at a blazing fast 14 frames-per-second (fps).
 
Nikon D6 - B&H | Adorama | Amazon

 
From the Adorama YouTube Channel:
 
A love letter to our city and to all those creatives out there hustling, dreaming and creating.
 
On the notes of George Gershwin's immortal "Rhapsody in Blue," New York City wakes up and begins the daily cycle of life, dreams, and their inevitable intersections. We follow three creatives as they hustle and fight against and within the rhythm of the city to chase their artistic visions.
 
Most say about New York: “You love it or you hate it!” It’s a city of contrast — of black and white — but many often miss its countless shades of gray.
 
Behind the Scenes Look at NEW YORK RHAPSODY

 
From the Adobe Photoshop YouTube Channel:
 
In this episode of #PHOMO, Adobe Evangelist Paul Trani shares a little known step-and-repeat trick to save you time when duplicating graphics in Photoshop.
 
B&H carries Adobe Photography Plan subscriptions.

From Flashpoint:
 
Lightweight, Portable Flash Now Available Exclusively at Adorama
 
NEW YORK (May 5, 2020) – Flashpoint announces the XPLOR 300 Pro TTL R2 Battery-Powered Monolight, a portable, versatile light built for on-the-go photography. The Flashpoint XPLOR 300 Pro is a powerful yet compact 300W strobe light, built on the renowned R2 series of wireless flashes. The lightweight flash has a speedy, one-second recycle time, with a 328-feet R2 signal reception range and the capability to work seamlessly across all major camera systems. “We’re so excited to debut the next generation Flashpoint monolight that is the ultimate combination of power and size for on-the-go photography,” said Solomon Leifer, Brand Manager at Flashpoint. “The XPLOR 300 allows photographers to capture high-quality images using any camera system, while its easy-to-use modifier mount allows for unlimited lighting creativity.” Features of the Flashpoint XPLOR 300 Pro monolight include:
 

• Compact and Portable: With a lightweight, three-pound body and measuring in at 7.5” x 3.8” x 3.4”, the Flashpoint XPLOR 300 Pro is perfect for wedding, event, commercial, and environmental portrait photographers, as well as run-and-gun photojournalists and adventure travelers.
• Seamless Syncing Across Camera Systems: Sync cameras across any of the major brands (Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Olympic, and Pentax) to guarantee accuracy and consistency across images, even if one photographer’s on Sony while the other shoots on Canon. The XPLOR 300 automatically senses the camera system, and responds accordingly to guarantee a seamless, cohesive, and high-quality final product.
• High Performance, Large-Capacity Battery: A 2600mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers up to 320 full power flashes, and re-charges in less than 2.5 hours. Easily swap out a new battery on the rear port in seconds to keep shooting without delay.
• Bowens S-Mount compatibility: The XPLOR 300 Pro is designed with compatibility in mind. Attach the Glow S2 Round flash bracket or the AD-AB Adapter ring and enjoy the world of the popular Bowens S-Type modifier mount, with limitless light shaping tools from softboxes to focusing spot lenses.
• Bi-Color LED Modelling Light: Intense Bi-Color LED guided modeling offers unlimited flexibility, combined with the dimmable Bi-Color LED modeling lamp to aid pre-visualization. Its 12W continuous light is also great for creating short form video.
• Optional Modifiers: Easily attach any XPLOR 300 or 400 Pro direct mount modifiers to achieve more light effects, such as a softbox, snoot, or barndoor.

Additional features include:
 

• Flashpoint R2 2.4GHz Radio System
• Manual flash over 9 stops
• TTL/M/Multi flash modes
• 32 channels to isolate and protect the signal
• High speed sync up to 1/8000 second
• Last shot auto memory function
• Second curtain sync
• Professional balanced color temperature at 5600K – 200K
• Bi-color LED modeling light (3000K – 6000K)
• Quiet fan cooled mechanism
• Large dot matrix LCD display

Flashpoint XPLOR 300 Giveaway
 
Now through May 17, Adorama has teamed up with Art of Visuals to give away ten Flashpoint lighting systems to photographers. To enter, follow @adorama, like the contest post, tag three friends in the comment section, and post a photo to your personal Instagram created using any form of artificial lighting and use the hashtags #aovLitUp #CreateNoMatterWhat.
 
Pricing and Availability
 
The Flashpoint XPLOR 300 Pro moonlight is available now for $499 at Adorama.com, and comes with a reflector and cap, flashtube, AD-E2 bracket, and lithium battery charger and cord, all in a convenient carrying case. A Softbox Kit, Travel Kit, and Location Kit are also available with added accessories at a discounted price.

From Canon USA:

Supercharge Your Stop Motion Animation

Whether pre-installed on a new EOS R or manually installed on an existing EOS R the new Stop Motion Animation upgrade for EOS R cameras increases your Live View resolution to 1920x1280 from Canon's normal of 960x640 when connected to Dragonframe stop motion animation software. This makes it easier for animators to confirm focus and movement within every frame.

Larger Live View

Live view is critical to animators creating stop motion animation films. Animators use the remote live view of the camera to review critical details and make decisions within the Dragonframe software. Canon's Stop Motion Animation firmware increases the Live View to 1920x1280 - helping animators see subtle movement for refined animation.

This is a comparison of the new Live View resolution of 1920x1280 (full screen) versus the original size of 960x640 (small inset). The large preview image makes it easier for the animators to have confidence in the shot and can improve the overall quality of the scene.

USB Manual Focus Peaking

Canon has added Manual Focus Peaking over USB to interface with Dragonframe software.

Seeing Focus Peaking on the full screen allows the animator to precisely capture fine detail and adjust for desired depth of field.

Critical focus on a subject's eyes (red edge) gives the animator the confidence that the scene flows as directed.

Standard Firmware vs Stop Motion Animation Firmware Comparison Chart

Important information about EOS R Stop Motion Animation Firmware

• HDMI output is not available on the EOS R with this firmware installed
• [Disp. performance] cannot be set
• MF peaking will not show up even if [MF peaking settings] is set to [On] under the following conditions:
  • When an EF-S lens is used
  • When [Multiple exposure] is set
  • When [Cropping/aspect ratio] is set to an option other than [FULL]
  • When the shooting screen is magnified
  • When you keep holding down the shutter button after shooting

How to obtain the Stop Motion Animation Firmware

Anyone interested in utilizing these features with the Canon EOS R can do so in one of the following ways:

A new version of the EOS R camera with the Stop Motion Animation Firmware already installed is now available for purchase. Purchase EOS R with Firmware at the Canon USA Store.

Current EOS R camera owners can receive the Stop Motion Animation Firmware upgrade for a fee by sending the camera to a Canon Factory Service Center.†

Not responsible for typographical errors. Certain images and effects are simulated. Products not shown to scale.

† Canon U.S.A. will perform the feature upgrade for a $100 fee and will require the camera to be sent to a Canon Factory Service Center. Shipping and handling charges may also apply. Specifications and availability subject to change without notice.