Canon and Sony News for Feb 2021

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R5 have been added to the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens Review.

These results are outstanding. Compare them to those from any other lens in the class.

Get in line: the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens is available for order at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Save the tax, use the B&H Payboo payment card (at B&H, I use this card exclusively)

Rent the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens Review.

This lens is another high-performing member of the Canon RF lens series.

The Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens is in stock at B&H and Amazon USA. Adorama expects stock soon.

Rent the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

From Sony:

New Alpha 7S III Firmware Update Includes S-Cinetone™

SAN DIEGO, CA – February 24, 2021 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced a new firmware update for the Alpha 7S III (Version 2.00) that allows users to utilize S-Cinetone, which is inspired by the color science used in Sony’s flagship VENICE cinema camera.

S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones, plus soft colors and gorgeous highlights that are essential to create a cinematic look. The new firmware also includes an update on Active Mode with 5-axis optical in-body stabilization.

The new firmware is available to download for free HERE.

From Sigma:

New Products Release of Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary

SIGMA America announces 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary Lens

Introducing The world’s smallest F2.8 standard zoom for mirrorless systems

February 24, 2021 Ronkonkoma, NY - SIGMA Corporation of America is pleased to announce the pricing and availability of the new 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary lens which has just been announced worldwide by Sigma Corporation. This ultra-compact fast-aperture standard zoom lens for Sony E-mount and L-mount cameras from SIGMA, Leica and Panasonic will be available in the US through authorized dealers on March 12, 2021 with an MSRP of $899.

Click here to find authorized online and in-store dealers

C | Contemporary

SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN

Exclusively for mirrorless cameras|Compatible with full-frame cameras

Smart and nimble. The new standard mirrorless zoom.

Design based on SIGMA’s Art line, with the same uncompromising optical performance

A lightweight and compact body – ideal for day-to-day use

Superb build quality with exceptional attention to detail that provides an exceptional user experience

Supplied accessories: Petal Type Lens Hood (LH706-01)

Available mount: L-Mount, Sony E-mount

* The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change.

*This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.

* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.

#SIGMA #SIGMA2870mmContemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMADGDN

SIGMA sets a new standard in large-aperture mirrorless zoom lenses

The SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary redefines the standard zoom for mirrorless cameras by combining outstanding optical performance, an F2.8 constant aperture, and a lightweight and compact body. The design of the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary is based on the existing 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, but with a focal range starting at 28mm, making the lens body significantly smaller and lighter while maintaining superb optical performance. It is the smallest and lightest lens in its class*. Remaining true to the Contemporary line's core concept of maintaining an optimal balance between optical performance and lens size, this new optic delivers professional quality results in a body small enough to take on a casual outing.

In addition to prioritizing portability, SIGMA’s optical engineers introduced a new combination of coatings and structural elements that make this standard zoom well-equipped for use in a wide range of shooting environments. Likewise, the latest production and manufacturing techniques were employed to ensure exceptionally high build quality.

The 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary introduces another fast, high-performance, large-aperture zoom lens to SIGMA’s mirrorless line-up, offering a more compact alternative to the existing 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art.

* As a standard zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras with F2.8 brightness throughout the zoom range (Source: SIGMA, as of February 2021)

[Key features]

Design based on SIGMA’s Art line, with the same uncompromising optical performance

The optical design of the SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary is based on the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, which is renowned for its outstanding optical performance throughout its zoom range. True to the Contemporary line's core concept, the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary was developed to offer the right balance of performance and portability, and as such, this large-aperture standard zoom delivers outstanding image quality that rivals Art line lenses in a body light enough for day-to-day use. Building on state-of-the-art technology, the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary has an advanced optical design that includes three aspherical, two FLD, and two SLD elements. Despite using fewer elements in total than the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, the design results in a thorough correction of axial chromatic aberration and sagittal coma aberration, which cannot be corrected in-camera, allowing users to create images that are uniformly sharp from the center to the edges of the frame. Along with its anti-ghosting design, the use of Super Multi-Layer Coating and Nano Porous Coating means well-controlled flare for high-contrast results in backlit conditions. It also features a water and oil repellant coating on the front side of the lens.

In short, the SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary combines all of the key optical features required of a large-aperture standard zoom lens, which are essential for photographing a wide variety of subjects in a range of shooting conditions.

·Comparison of the two optimal solutions to standard zoom lenses with F2.8 brightness throughout the zoom range.

With the addition of the new 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary, SIGMA now provides two optimal solutions of standard F2.8 zoom lens for mirrorless cameras ? the new 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary achieves remarkable portability and offers the same optical performance, as the existing 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art which is for pro-use with the highest levels of performance throughout its focal range.

A lightweight and compact body – ideal for day-to-day use

Being slightly less wide-angle than the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art has allowed a significant reduction in the size of the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary lens body. In order to fit with the design concept of the Contemporary line, which balances performance with portability, the new lens features a simpler dust- and splash-proof structure and smaller switches. This makes it the smallest and lightest lens in its class*.

The new lens features just one lightweight focusing element, which keeps the AF unit small. This, along with a quiet and fast stepping motor, makes for responsive and near-silent autofocus performance.

The 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary weighs in at 470g, and when attached to the SIGMA fp, the entire setup is 890g. The supreme portability afforded by a camera system that weighs less than 1kg gives photographers a huge amount of freedom and flexibility to achieve their creative vision. It’s also a perfect combination for filmmakers looking for a high-performance, lightweight, easy-to-handle camera system that works well with a gimbal and other accessories.

A large-aperture, standard zoom lens that is light and small enough for casual outings, the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary will open up new photographic possibilities for better and more creative results.

* As a standard zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras with F2.8 brightness throughout the zoom range (Source: SIGMA, as of February 2021)

Superb build quality with exceptional attention to detail that provides an exceptional user experience

With priority given to optimal portability, the body of the SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary consists primarily of lightweight parts. While conventional wisdom states that it is more difficult to ensure processing accuracy for plastic parts than metal parts, there has been no compromise whatsoever on build quality for the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary. One reason for this is that it uses a type of polycarbonate called TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a comparable level of thermal shrinkage to aluminum. This helps reduce differences between the thermal shrinkage of the metal and non-metal parts, ensuring stable levels of performance even in an environment with extreme temperature changes. The use of polycarbonates in the construction of zoom and focus rings can make their operation feel less premium, but with careful treatment to the precision of these parts and adjusting the movement with the lubricant appropriately, the rings offer a precise action with an exceptionally high-quality feel.

What allows us to achieve these precisely produced parts and such premium aesthetics is the impressive standard of manufacturing technology and rigorous quality control we have at the SIGMA Aizu Factory.

The SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary offers a new and improved photographic experience for mirrorless users who require a fast aperture standard zoom lens. Its premium, intuitive build makes it as exciting to use the lens as it is to see the incredible images it can produce, inspiring you to start achieving your creative potential.

[Additional features]

• Lens construction: 16 elements in 12 groups, with 2 FLD elements, 2 SLD elements and 3 aspherical elements
• Internal focusing
• Compatible with high-speed autofocus
• Stepping motor
• Compatible with lens-based optical correction * Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections may vary depending on the camera model.
• Nano Porous Coating
• Super Multi-Layer Coating
• Water and oil repellent coating (front element)
• Focus Mode Switch
• Support DMF, AF+MF
• Petal-type lens hoodSimple dust- and splash-proof design
• Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
• Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
• Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system "A1"
• 9-blade rounded diaphragm
• High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
• ‘Made in Japan’ craftsmanship

[Key specifications] The figures below are for L-mount.

Lens construction: 12 groups, 16 elements (2 FLD elements, 2 SLD elements, 3 aspherical elements) |Angle of view: 75.4°-34.3°|Number of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm) |Minimum aperture: F22|Minimum focusing distance: 19 (W)-38 (T)cm / 7.5-15.0in.|Maximum magnification ratio: 1:3.3 (W) - 1:4.6 (T)|Filter size: f67mm|Maximum dimension x length: f72.2mm×101.5mm / f2.8-4.0in.|Weight: 470g / 16.6oz.

[Barcode]

L-Mount: 085126 592691

Sony E-mount: 0085126 592653

[Accessories: Supplied] Name of product / barcode

Lens Hood LH706-01: 0085126 939021

[Accessories: Optional] Name of product / barcode

SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11: for L-Mount 0085126 878696

SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR 67mm: 0085126 931803

SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 67mm: 0085126 930943

SIGMA PROTECTOR 67mm: 0085126 931070

SIGMA WR UV FILTER 67mm: 0085126 930684

SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 67mm: 0085126 930813

Orders

Order the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN DN Contemporary Lens from B&H.

From Rode:

Introducing the Wireless GO II – Next Generation Wireless Audio From RØDE

The world's smallest and first truly wireless microphone has been reborn. Meet the RØDE Wireless GO II, a new ultra-compact and extremely versatile dual channel wireless microphone system. Offering the same pocket-sized form factor and professional sound quality as the best-selling Wireless GO, with a host of incredible new features making it even more powerful and flexible, this is next generation wireless audio from RØDE.

The original Wireless GO, released in 2019, revolutionised audio for content creators. With its innovative form factor, unique clip ‘n’ go versatility, and in-built microphone offering truly wireless recording for the first time, it changed the way creators captured sound for video.

The Wireless GO II offers all of these features and much more, including dual channel recording, universal compatibility with cameras, mobile devices and computers, extended range and improved transmission stability, and on-board recording capabilities. Wireless audio has changed again.

Get more information and order the Rode Wireless GO II at B&H where "Shipping will begin Wed Feb 24."

From Sony:

Sony Electronics Launches FX3 Full-Frame Camera for Cinematic Look and Enhanced Operability for Creators

Sony's Most Compact and Lightweight Cinema Line Camera for Creators Who Strive for New Cinematic Freedom

FX3 Product Highlights:

• Compact and lightweight body design with high operability for hand-held shooting, gimbal and drone-mounted work
• Multiple 1/4-20 UNC threaded mounting points to easily attach compatible accessories
• Detachable XLR handle unit with two XLR/TRS audio inputs and one 3.5mm stereo jack
• S-Cinetone™ look – inspired by the color science of the digital cinema camera VENICE – which is also used in FX9 and FX6 Cinema Line cameras
• Built-in cooling fan enables effective heat dissipation to support uninterrupted 4K 60p recording[i]
• Records up to 4K 120p[ii]
• 10.2 megapixel[iii] full-frame back-illuminated CMOS Exmor R™ sensor and BIONZ XR™ image processing engine
• Ultra-high sensitivity with ISO expandable to 409,600 for very low light conditions and 15+ stops of dynamic range[iv]
• Fast Hybrid AF (Autofocus), Touch Tracking (real-time tracking) and Real-time Eye AF, also used in other Alpha™ cameras
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization with “Active Mode”[v] supports handheld movie shooting

SAN DIEGO, CA – February 23, 2020 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the FX3 (model ILME-FX3) camera that combines the best of Sony’s industry-leading digital cinema technology with advanced imaging features from Alpha™ brand mirrorless cameras to make Sony’s coveted cinematic look accessible to more creators.

As the latest addition to Sony’s Cinema Line, the FX3 delivers a cinematic look and professional operability and reliability in a camera that is accessible to early-career creators, as well as suitable to be used alongside Sony’s VENICE, FX9 and FX6 cameras. The new model provides outstanding image quality and usability for small scale and one-person shooting. The FX3 boasts industry-leading autofocus capabilities, 5-axis in-body image stabilization with Active modev, handheld shooting design and advanced heat dissipation for extended recording times. All this is combined in a compact, lightweight body that provides the performance and mobility to meet the growing demands of today’s content creators.

“The FX3 is the perfect tool for content creators looking to enter the world of cinematography,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president for Imaging Products and Solutions Americas at Sony Electronics. “It combines everything our customers love about Sony’s video capabilities in our Alpha lineup with a new body optimized for videography. We are excited to add to Sony’s Cinema Line and continue to support the world’s creators with the best tools possible.”

Cinematic Look

The FX3 boasts Sony’s industry-leading image sensor technology to achieve high processing speeds and outstanding image quality. The full-frame, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor (approximately 10.2 effective megapixel count for video recording and approximately 12.1 effective megapixels count for stills) and the BIONZ XR image processing engine team up to ensure high sensitivity with low noise. The standard ISO range is 80 to 102,400 (expandable to 409,600when shooting video), and dynamic range is an impressively wide 15+ stopsiv.

In response to a growing need for more expressive depth, the FX3, along with FX9 and FX6 Cinema Line cameras, allows users to create a cinematic look without post-production using the S-Cinetone color matrix. Inspired by the color science used in Sony’s flagship VENICE camera, S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones, plus soft colors and smooth highlights that are essential to create a cinematic look.

Creators can record in 4K at up to 120 frames per secondii. Extraordinarily smooth slow-motion imagery[vi] (up to 5x) at QFHD (3840 x 2160) resolution with autofocus provides new expressive capability.

Designed for Comfortable Solo-Shooting

Our most compact and lightweight Cinema Line camera is ideal for handheld shooting, gimbal and drone-mounted work. It weighs just 1.58 lbs. (715 g), including the battery and memory cards, and the body is only 5.11 in x 3.33 in x 3.06 in (77.8 mm x 129.7 mm x 84.5 mm). The camera grip has been carefully designed to provide optimum flexibility, stability and comfort for long shoots.

Designed for mobility and efficiency, the FX3’s body features five 1/4-20 UNC threaded mounting points to easily attach compatible accessories while remaining light enough for handheld shooting and making it easy to set up and carry. The supplied XLR handle securely attaches to the body via the Multi Interface Shoe without any special tools and provides three additional threaded mounting points for accessories. Optional accessories such as external monitors, recorders, wireless microphones, or other add-ons can be securely attached.

To enable 4-channel 24-bit audio recording, the supplied XLR handle includes two balanced XLR/TRS audio inputs and an additional 3.5mm stereo 2-channel jack. With an optional XLR or TRS microphone connected, the XLR adaptor on the handle takes care of the A/D (Analogue to Digital) conversion and DSP (Digital Signal Processing), and transfers the digital audio data directly to the camera for outstanding audio quality. Because the XLR adaptor is integrated into the handle and does not require any additional cables or batteries, it offers easy set up. If the handle is not being used, the FX3 includes a 3.5mm stereo mic input on the camera body.

The FX3 provides Fast Hybrid autofocus (AF) by using the 627 points[vii] focal plane phase-detection system during movie recording. The camera is further enhanced with Touch Tracking (Real-Time tracking) where simply touching the desired subject on the monitor screen initiates auto focus and tracking on that subject. Precise and smooth focus is maintained with Real-time Eye AF – technology that pinpoints the eye even when subjects are looking down or up at steep angles. Additionally, other AF features have been included and refined in response to feedback from professional users, including AF Transition Speed, AF Subject Shift Sensitivity, intuitive control and AF support when focusing manually. These AF features have been implemented in the FX3 to ensure stable, flexible and precise focusing in any situation and are easy to operate for solo shoots.

The FX3 features 5-axis optical in-body image stabilization – highly effective for handheld shooting. A high precision stabilization unit and gyro sensors have made it possible to provide an Active Modev that is dedicated to movie shooting in each format, including 4K. In-body image stabilization means that effective stabilization can be achieved with a wide range of E-mount lenses, including those that do not include stabilization on their own. Alternately, the FX3 records image stabilization metadata that can be adjusted during post-production using Catalyst Browse/Prepare[viii].

Expandability and Operability for Content Creators

Operability

FX3 was designed to optimize professional operability. The controls frequently used in movie shooting such as ISO, iris, and white balance adjustment are located on the grip and on the top of the body for easy access. In addition, 140 functions assignable to 15 custom keys allow for ultimate efficiency.

The zoom lever located on the top of the grip not only controls compatible powered zoom lenses, but also allows Clear Image Zoom to be used with unpowered zoom and prime lenses – reducing the number of lenses required for many projects. This lever also enables smooth zooming that is difficult for manual zoom-ring control.

Recording lamps (tally) are provided on the top, front and back of the camera, so that the operator and talent can easily confirm recording. A side-opening vari-angle touch-panel LCD monitor allows for easy operation and is suitable for gimbal-mounted shots, complicated angles, handheld operation and more. Flexible Exposure Mode allows the FX3 to have a similar Auto/Manual switch operation as other FX series cameras for iris, shutter speed and ISO, which can be set independently.

Reliability

Creators need more than just refined features and performance; they also need reliability and durability. The FX3 combines a fan for active cooling with effective heat dissipation resulting in uninterrupted 4K 60p recording without thermal shutdowni. The newly developed fan provides high-efficiency cooling by drawing air into the camera via the bottom panel and exhausts via the side.

The new camera also features a dust and moisture resistant design[ix] and durable magnesium alloy chassis. Moreover, USB PD (Power Delivery) supports fast charging[x] for uninterrupted recording.

Expandability

The FX3 is compatible with several recording functions including S-Log3 gamma and S-Gamut3.cine, which record in a high dynamic range and wide color gamut. It also supports internal recording in XAVC S™ (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Long GOP) and XAVC S-I (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Intra) formats in 4K (QFHD) and FHD, and XAVC HS™ (MPEG-H HEVC/H.265, 4K only) format. 4K 60p video in 10-bit 4:2:2 or 16-bit RAW format[xi] can be output to an external device via the FX3 full-size HDMI Type-A jack.

The FX3 also offers two fast, future-oriented media slots that contribute to unprecedented shooting freedom by being compatible with either CFexpress Type A or SDXC cards. The same data can be simultaneously recorded to both cards for backup and a “relay” mode will automatically switch to the second media card when the first media card becomes full during recording.

The new camera has been developed with advanced connectivity features to better assist professional creators with high-speed wireless LAN functionality (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band[xii]) and wired LAN connection via a compatible USB-to-Ethernet adaptor. The FX3 supports video and still file transfers to a specified remote FTP server. This FX3 also allows for remote shooting from a PC using the Imaging Edge Desktop™ application’s “Remote” function via Wi-Fi, or Superspeed USB 5Gbps connection over USB Type-C® terminal.

About Cinema Line

Cinema Line is a series of cameras that have a filmic look – cultivated from Sony’s long experience in digital cinema production – plus enhanced operability and reliability that respond to the wide variety of creators’ high demands.

Cinema Line includes the digital cinema camera VENICE, highly acclaimed in the feature and episodic production industry, the professional camera FX9, which is popular for documentary and drama production and the FX6, for grab and shoot action and content creation. With the addition of the new FX3, the most compact camera in the series, Sony offers a true line up of versatile creative tools for all types of visual storytellers.

Pricing and Availability

The new FX3 full-frame Cinema Line camera will be available March 2021 for approximately $3,900 USD and $5,000 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new camera and Sony's other imaging products can be found at www.sonycine.com and www.alphauniverse.com, resources designed to educate and inspire all fans of Sony’s technology for content creation and photography.

Preorders

Get in front of the line: preorder the Sony FX3 from B&H and Adorama.

Learn more at B&H Explora.

Notes:

[i] Sony internal tests. USB power supply, XAVC S-I (All-I), 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2, 25 deg C (ambient, camera temperature when recording started), Auto power off temperature: High, Cooing fan: Auto. The duration will vary depending on the shooting conditions. The maximum continuous recording time for a single movie shooting session is approximately 13 hours (a product specification limit)

[ii] With 10% image crop

[iii] approx. effective for movies. 12.1 megapixels for still images

[iv] S-Log 3 movies. Sony internal test

[v] Slight image crop in Active Mode. “Standard” setting recommended for focal lengths of 200mm or longer. Active Mode is not available when recording at frame rates of 120 (100) fps or higher, including S&Q mode.

[vi] Post-production editing and S&Q mode recording required

[vii] Maximum AF points and area coverage. This varies according to the recording modes

[viii] Supported in Catalyst Browse/Prepare Version 2020.1 or later. Image stabilization metadata that can be used by Catalyst is generated when using a Sony E-mount lens with the camera’s optical image stabilization set to [OFF] or [Active].

[ix] Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof. The XLR handle does not feature a dust and moisture resistant design

[x] USB charging and power delivery are only supported via the USB Type-C® terminal. A battery must be installed in the camera when supplying USB power. The internal battery may drain even if USB power is supplied, depending on the adapter used and camera operating conditions.

[xi] Compatible recorders to be announced.

[xii] 5 GHz communication may be restricted in some countries and regions

We knew that the Sony FE 35mm f/1.4 GM Lens was production delayed, with Sony indicating that the estimated ship date was "To be determined."

"To be determined" is obviously vague, and our expectations have been guided by the estimated ship date provided by retailers. Sadly, B&H just moved the expected ship date from Mon, Feb 22nd to Mon, Apr 12.

Amazon USA still has Feb 22nd on their page, but I don't expect that date to hold in light of B&H's updated estimate. Adorama is not guessing.

Remarkably, the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens is nearly the same size (and weight) as the Canon RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM Lens. Think about the packing space requirement advantage this lens holds.

Upon creating this comparison image for the RF 70-200mm F4 L review, I thought you might find it as interesting as I did.

Along with the Image quality test results shared yesterday, vignetting, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images have been added to the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens Review.

Here are a couple of comparisons to get you started:

Visual Canon 70-200mm Lens Comparison

Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens Compared to Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM Lens from a measurements and specs perspective.

The Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens is in stock at Amazon USA and coming soon to B&H and Adorama.

Rent the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Image quality test results have been added to the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens Review.

Following the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens and Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM Lens, it is not shocking to see this performance from the RF F4.

Here are some comparisons:

Canon RF 70-200mm F4 compared to F2.8 L IS Lens (F2.8 lens test results from the R5 coming soon)

Canon RF 70-200mm F4 compared to the EF F/4L IS II Lens

Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS Lens compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS Lens

The Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens is in stock at Amazon USA and coming soon to B&H and Adorama.

Rent the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

The Sony a1 Mirrorless Camera Review page is filled with expectations for this flagship camera model.

Expect this camera to be an outstanding performer.

The Sony a1 is available for order at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

Create a rental reservation for the Sony a1 from Lensrentals.

From Canon U.S.A.:

Need a Digital Photo Assistant? Canon U.S.A. has you Covered with the Company’s First-Ever Photo Culling App

Canon Also Publicly Debuts “PHIL,” the Company’s Computer-Vision Artificial Intelligence Engine

MELVILLE, NY, February 11, 2021– According to a recent report from Keypoint Intelligence, 1.4 trillion photos were taken worldwide in 2020 and 7.4 trillion images were stored¹. With these staggering numbers, it could be overwhelming for the average consumer to decide what photos are best to keep and store. Delivering expert photo advice in the form of an app, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announces its Photo Culling app. Compatible with iOS devices², this brand-new app helps determine a user’s best photos based on scores against four models: sharpness, noise, emotions and closed eyes, using Canon’s Computer Vision Artificial Intelligence Engine known as “PHIL” (abbreviated for Photography Intelligence Learning)³. Additionally, the app will suggest deleting duplicative photos, making it easy for the consumer to free up space on their smartphone.

"In today's ever-changing and overwhelming world, where thousands of photos are captured and stored in a person’s smartphone, consumers need an expert, reliable and intuitive photo tool to help them decide the best photos based on years of trusted knowledge and technology,” said Tatsuro "Tony" Kano, executive vice president and general manager of the Imaging Technologies & Communications Group of Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Canon U.S.A.’s new Photo Culling App is the answer and we are proud to see how the company’s Computer Vision technology within this app can assist consumers with finding and keeping their best photos of their fondest moments."

The Photo Culling app features two culling options:

Whole Culling: Determines the best photos based on the absolute best scores against the four models: sharpness, noise, emotions and closed eyes. If the score is over the threshold the user sets, the photo is considered to be the best. The remaining images would be suggested as deletions.

Similar Culling: Determines the best photos based on score comparison among a similar group of photos. The highest-scoring photos within the group are considered the best photos. A second photo may also be selected as the second-best photo within the group. The remaining images would be suggested as deletions. The app is also able to find similar photos and group them together. For example, If a user selects 10 photos of a dog and 10 photos of a sunset, it will break the photos into two groups and find the best photo of each; one of the dog and one of the sunset.

In addition to its culling options, the Photo Culling app also features:

Photo Counts and Storage: Shows the number of photos a user has as well as the amount of phone storage on the Home Screen.

Event Album: Categorizing and placing photos in albums on the Home Screen. These are dynamic albums based on events/date throughout the year and the app will pull events that have a large number of photos and suggest the user review these photos to delete and save space.

Features in the Setting Screens: Displaying the number of photos deleted, the current subscription plan (see details below), option for notifications, parameter setting for each score against sharpness, noise, emotion and closed eyes. Users also can adjust these settings, such as changing how much of an impact noise has on a photo versus closed eyes⁴.

Dark and Light Mode Settings Screen Option: Displays screens either as a dark or light mode option

Price & Availability*

Available for download via the App Store, the Photo Culling app will be available under two subscription options: $2.99 per month or $14.99 for the year, each with a three-day trial⁵. For more information, please visit, usa.canon.com/photo-culling-app.

# # #

† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

* Availability and specifications are subject to change without notice.

¹ Data Source: Keypoint Intelligence / InfoTrends Worldwide Consumer Photos Captured and Stored

² The Photo Culling app is compatible with iOS® running version 14. There are currently no device restrictions for iOS. This app helps you to sort, organize and delete your images. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.

³ PHIL is a trademark of Canon U.S.A., Inc. in the United States and may also be a trademark in other countries.

⁴ For best results, disable cloud storage photos from your Settings. If iCloud is enabled, please make sure “Download & Keep Originals” is selected and "Optimize iPhone Storage" is not.

⁵ Download of the app is free (data charges may apply), but full use of the app requires a subscription. A free version of the app is provided with limited functionality and features. There is also a paid subscription version of the app with full functionality and features available to you starting with a three (3) day free trial. The subscription version of the app is available through a monthly or yearly, nonrefundable, auto renewing payment through your applicable app store. After your three (3) day free trial, your access will be automatically rolled over into your chosen auto-renewable subscription unless you cancel upon 24 hours’ notice from the end of the trial period by following the App Store cancellation procedures.

In preparation for the review, the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens page is loaded with expectations for this lens.

I expect the RF 70-200mm F4 to be as remarkable as its sibling.

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The Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens is available for order at B&H | Adorama | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.