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Skylum has announced Aperty Portrait Software.

The first 1,000 customers get a lifetime license.

From Skylum:

Skylum Announces A New Photo Editing App For Professional Portrait Photographers

NEW YORK, NY – May 23, 2024 - Skylum, a leading innovator in photo editing software and the company behind the award-winning, AI-powered program Luminar Neo, is proud to announce Project “Barcelona”, a new desktop application specifically for professional portrait retouching.

Recognizing the increasing demand for time-saving tools in portrait photography that would enable professional and semi-professional photographers to focus on creative growth and client engagement, Skylum is collaborating with renowned portrait photographer Julia Trotti to develop this specialized software solution. Set for release in September 2024, Project “Barcelona” will empower photographers by automating routine face retouching processes through an efficient, AI-optimized workflow that runs locally on the user’s device, making it as easy as applying presets. With the added advantage of precise and adjustable masking tools, it provides enhanced control and accuracy for perfect results every time. This, in turn, will allow portrait photographers to balance the time-intensive task of photo retouching with shooting and growing their photography business.

Designed with the specific needs of portrait photographers in mind, the new app’s key features include:

Skin Toning: Make subtle changes to the skin tone of specific areas thanks to an accurate facial skin segmentation model; remove the red hue or unify the overall color. On top of that, the new app's state-of-the-art face mesh model provides unique makeup correction capabilities, allowing the application of extra textures like blush, highlight, and contour, and changing the color of lips, brows, and other elements.

Eye Enhancement: Add iris flare, remove redness, and adjust eye shape with a comprehensive suite of tools to perfect a subject’s eyes in portraits.

Teeth Whitening: Ensure radiant smiles with advanced teeth whitening and brightening capabilities.

Makeup Application: Enjoy customizable options for creative makeup styles and colors to compliment any complexion, clothing, or backdrop.

Bokeh Effects: Create stunning depth-of-field effects with the bokeh feature, adding dimension and allure to portraits.

Body Enhancement: Adjust bodily proportions to correct posture and account for unflattering angles, making sure portraits capture subjects in their best light.

"In the development of Project “Barcelona” (public name to be announced soon), we’re working closely with acclaimed photographer Julia Trotti to infuse our software with professional insights that meet the specific needs of portrait photographers everywhere," says Ivan Kutanin, CEO of Skylum. "Just as Luminar Neo provides convenient editing solutions for a broad set of photography challenges, this new app uses cutting-edge AI technology to help portrait photographers achieve top-quality retouching and inspire them with new creative possibilities."

Early bird offer starts June 25, 2024. Find out more on Skylum’s website and sign up for the waiting list for early access.

In April 2024, Sigma announced a list of lenses slated to gain Canon RF lens mount compatibility. The first lens on that list has now been formally announced. Expect the demand for the RF mount version of the #1 best selling mirrorless lens at B&H to be high.

Learn more about this lens in the site's review: Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens

Here is the official announcement from SIGMA Corporation:

Launch schedule of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary for Canon RF Mount

SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the launch schedule of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary for Canon RF Mount.

Supplied accessories: PETAL-TYPE HOOD LH582-02, FRONT CAP LCF-55 III, REAR CAP LCR II

Mount: Canon RF Mount

Launch : July, 2024

* Product appearance and specifications are subject to change.

#SIGMA #SIGMA1850mmF28Contemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMADCDN #SIGMARFMount

A large F2.8 aperture zoom lens that need never leave your camera. This exceptionally light, bright, and sharp standard zoom for crop-sensor mirrorless cameras is the ultimate workhorse lens.

Long-awaited Canon RF Mount addition

SIGMA's first APS-C size mirrorless dedicated zoom lens, the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, will now be available for the Canon RF Mount. This addition allows users to enjoy high-performance, and high-quality SIGMA zoom lenses in native mount on their Canon RF Mount system.

A control algorithm including AF drive and communication speed optimization has been developed specifically for Canon RF Mount interchangeable lenses. In addition to realizing high-speed AF, the lens also supports Servo AF and in-camera aberration correction*. The mount is rubber-sealed to cater for use in a variety of environments.

* Available on supported cameras only.

Mount Conversion Service is available to convert other mounts of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary to Canon RF Mount.

Features

1. Large F2.8 aperture and superb image quality

The compact body offers a versatile full-frame equivalent zoom range of 28.8mm to 80mm, a wide aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range that allows you to enjoy bokeh expressions, and sharp images achieved by the latest optical design technology. With a minimum focusing distance of 12.1cm and a maximum magnification of 1:2.8*1, it allows photographers to take advantage of the compact shooting system, such as shooting close-ups of your subject.

2. Exceptionally compact and lightweight body ideal for mirrorless cameras

The main feature of the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary is its overwhelmingly compact and lightweight body that maximizes the excellent portability and advantages of an APS-C mirrorless camera. Despite its large aperture of F2.8, it is the smallest and lightest in its class*2 boasting a maximum diameter of f69.2mm, a length of 74.5mm and weight of 300g.*3 This makes the large-aperture standard zoom easy to carry around in daily life.

*1 The minimum focusing distance and maximum magnification ratio are both values at the wide end.

*2 As an AF compatible, F2.8 constant aperture standard zoom lens for APS-C (as of June 2024, by SIGMA).

*3 Size and weight measurements given for Canon RF Mount version.

Specifications

Values are for Canon RF Mount

Lens Construction: 10 groups, 13 elements (1 SLD and 3 aspherical lenses)
Angle of View (APS-C): 73.4°(W)-30.0°(T)
Number of Diaphragm Blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture: F22
Minimum Focusing Distance: 12.1 (W) - 30 (T) cm / 4.8 (W) - 11.9 (T) in.
Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:2.8 (W) - 1:5(T)
Filter size: 55mm
Dimensions (Diameter × Length): 69.2mm × 74.5mm / 2.7in. x 2.9in.
Weight: 300g / 10.6oz.

Product Barcode

Canon RF Mount: 00-85126-58572-3

Accessories (Supplied) Name of product / Product Barcode
LENS HOOD LH582-02: 0085126 939694
FRONT CAP LCF-55 III: 0085126 930066
REAR CAP LCR II: For Canon RF Mount 0085126 941468

Accessories (Optional) Name of product / Product Barcode
SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 55mm: 0085126 930912
SIGMA PROTECTOR 55mm: 0085126 931049
SIGMA WR UV FILTER 55mm: 0085126 930653
SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 55mm: 0085126 930783

Orders

Order the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens in your preferred mount at B&H.

Just posted: Tamron 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens Review.

An attractive addition to Tamron's lineup.

Support this site by ordering the Tamron 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX

Please share!

From Sony Europe:

Reuters selects Sony cameras for its worldwide video group equipment

Reuters’s global network of on location reporters will be using the Alpha 7S III and PXW-Z280 cameras starting this year to bring world events to everyone.

Weybridge, June 12th, 2024 – Sony is delighted to announce that Reuters, one of the largest news agencies in the world, has selected Alpha and XDCAM cameras, G Master lenses and audio equipment to equip its video journalists across the world. The fleet will be using Alpha 7S III, and PXW-Z280 as their main shooting kit, paired with UWP-D wireless audio.

Since its launch, the Alpha 7S III has established itself as a go to camera for on location content creators needing a compact form factor and exceptional picture quality. In this instance, the advanced autofocus performance for hybrid use, together with its outstanding low light performance were key features in Reuters’ decision making. Sony’s E-Mount strategy will also provide journalists with the flexibility to capture images in their truest form, when perfectly paired with the vast options of Sony lenses of their choosing, including the SEL2470GM2.

The PXW-Z280 has become an industry standard, thanks to its ease of use, electronic variable ND filter and Sony’s Instant HDR workflow, eliminating the need for colour grading. Its advanced network features and multiple format support means it can easily, securely, and wirelessly fit into a cloud-based news gathering workflow.

Both cameras benefit for the connectivity features needed to easily connect to the cloud for seamless and reliable content transfer, from the capture location back to the remote broadcast unit, particularly critical for news gathering, with its emphasis on speed.

The cameras and associated equipment started shipping to 23 Reuters locations across the world from April 2024.

This investment from Reuters is a testament to the long-standing relationship between Reuters Sony, powered by Sony’s in-depth knowledge of on the terrain requirement from journalists and Reuters mission to provide timely and quality news. Sony’s Media Backbone Hive is already in use at Reuters as its main multi-platform news production system.

Gildas Pelliet, Imaging and Professional Solutions, Sony Europe, commented: “We are delighted that Reuters has chosen Sony for this key piece of their technological ecosystem. In pressured environments, nothing is more important for a news organisation than to be reliable and timely. This is where reliability, picture quality and cloud-based workflows become crucial – and those are the qualities we have brought to our cameras and workflow solutions.

Sony Alpha 9 III firmware update version 2.01 is available for download (Sony USA).

Firmware Version 2.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixes an issue where the exposure may be underexposed when shooting continuously with an aperture value of F18 or higher
2. Improves the operational stability of the camera

Get the Sony Alpha 9 III at B&H.

Canon has released a new version of EOS Utility.

Changes for EOS Utility 3.18.5:

• Supports RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE

To install the updates, select "Check for updates" on the application's Help menu. Alternatively, download EOS Utility 3.18.5. (thanks, Scott!)

Image quality test results are now available on the Tamron 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens page.

Interesting addition to Tamron's lineup.

Compared to the Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens

Support this site by ordering the Tamron 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX

Please share!

Sony Alpha 1 firmware update version 2.02 is available for download.

Firmware Version 2.02 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixes an issue where the camera might not work properly when using the SEL200600G lens
2. Improves the operational stability of the camera

Notes from Sony:

• Updates should be installed in chronological order. When updating from Ver. 1.32 or earlier, you need to update to Ver. 2.01 first before proceeding with the Ver. 2.02 update. [and the version 2.01 upgrade will require reconfiguration of the camera]
• Update software for this product will be provided in the memory card version.
• You can download the software update using the Creators' App available in the App Store and Google Play.

Get the Sony Alpha 1 at B&H.

Just posted: Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens Review.

Great lens.

Please share!

Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens from Lensrentals.

You are not likely shocked by the addition of the RF 35 F1.4 to this list. From Canon Japan (translated):

Apology and information regarding product supply status

Update date: June 11, 2024

Thank you for your continued patronage of Canon products.

Currently, we are experiencing delays in delivery for the following products due to orders exceeding our expectations and also due to the impact of global parts supply. We sincerely apologize to our customers and business partners for the inconvenience caused. We would like to apologize again for keeping our eagerly awaiting customers waiting for such a long time. We will continue to take measures to ensure a stable product supply so that we can deliver the products as soon as possible. We appreciate your understanding..

Product Name – About Supply

Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens

We plan to ship the products one by one, but delivery may take longer than usual.

RF200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM

We plan to ship the products one by one, but delivery may take longer than usual.

Speedlight EL-1

We plan to ship the products one by one, but it is expected that it will take a considerable amount of time for delivery. If you place a new order, it may take up to six months for delivery.

Note that B&H has a used Speedlight EL-1 in stock as I post this notice.

From Canon, Inc.:

Canon developing new RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens for EOS R7 camera for recording spatial video for Apple Vision Pro

TOKYO, June 11, 2024—Canon Inc. announced today that it is developing the RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens for its popular EOS R7 camera¹, enabling users to capture life's most precious moments in spatial video, and then relive those memories on the Apple Vision Pro. The new DUAL lens is the latest addition to Canon's EOS VR System lineup, and will be available later this fall². Canon is the first³ camera manufacturer to introduce a dedicated, interchangeable lens that enables pro users to capture stunning spatial video to experience on the Apple Vision Pro.

With the RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens, videographers can record gorgeous spatial video even in the most challenging lighting conditions. After capturing video with the interchangeable lens, the EOS VR Utility app transforms the video captured from the camera to spatial video, which viewers can enjoy on the Apple Vision Pro.

The RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens features a field angle that is similar to a person’s field of view, which enables videographers to naturally capture memorable moments. The lens is also equipped with a high-speed autofocus mechanism, so users of all levels can record amazing spatial video.

Canon launched the EOS VR System for capturing immersive and VR video in 2021, and since then has met the needs for video production in diverse fields including entertainment, tourism, and education. The EOS VR System features dual lenses and utilizes the left and right lenses to produce beautiful content with incredible depth and dimension. To streamline the video production workflow, the light entering from the respective lenses is recorded on a single CMOS sensor, which eliminates the need for camera position adjustments or synchronization prior to shooting, or the need for piecing together footage after filming.

The RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens is the latest example of how Canon is continuing to meet the creative needs of pro users who strive to produce stunning immersive video as they explore new ways of storytelling.

¹ As of the release date of the RF-S7.8mm STM DUAL lens, the only compatible camera is the EOS R7 (released in June 2022). Requires a firmware update scheduled for release at the same time as the lens.

² Between September 21, 2024, and December 20, 2024.

³ As of June 10, 2024.

From Canon USA:

CANON UNVEILS THE FUTURE OF EVERYDAY VR CONTENT CREATION WITH NEW DUAL FISHEYE LENS

MELVILLE, NY, June 10, 2024 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, has announced the new RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens, bringing ease, affordability and quality for social media creators interested in exploring VR content creation. The RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens is compatible with the EOS R7 camera^* and will be available in June 2024.

The new RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens makes VR content creation with a mirrorless camera more accessible and efficient than ever. Engineered to empower creators of all types, this lens offers a perfect balance between clarity and usability for vlog-style VR creation. This APS-C Stereoscopic VR lens’ ability to achieve a 144º wide-angle view and utilize equidistant projection makes it ideally suited for every day, virtually hassle-free VR production. Also designed for versatility, this lens permits multiple methods of camera handling, from hand-holding, mounting on a gimbal, or tripod-mounting. Canon’s available EOS VR Utility software (separately available with a paid subscription) is designed for a smooth editing process.

"The RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens offers a solution to the growing demand for more affordable and accessible tools in the VR market,” said Brian Mahar, senior vice president and general manager, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Whether you’re a social creator looking to expand your content into VR, or a filmmaker interested in making the jump from 2D to 3D content, this lens enables creators of all levels to comfortably explore VR content creation and generate amazing content.”

Get to know the RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens:

• One-shot AF and Left/Right focus Adjustment with Focus ring, helping to create effortless and precise shooting in virtually any environment.
• An Air Sphere Coating (ASC) is a first for Canon non-L Series lenses and helps to minimize ghosting and facilitate pristine image quality.
• Rear filter holder that accommodates both 30.5mm screw-on filters and sheet-type filters, i.e. gelatin or polyester filters.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens is scheduled to be available in June 2024 for an estimated retail price of $1,099.00^**.

Orders

Order the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens at B&H or Adorama.

^* Firmware update is required for EOS R7 camera’s compatibility with RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens
^** Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice.
Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

The Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page is loaded with information and expectations.

Expect to learn something new from this information.

Get the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada

Sony recently held the 2024 Business Segment Meeting. Presentation materials you may find interesting include:

Entertainment, Technology & Services Segment
Imaging and Sensing Solutions

Canon EOS R7 firmware update version 1.5.0 is available for download (Canon USA).

Firmware Version 1.5.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Adds support for the Software Development Assistance Kit (EDSDK/CCAPI).
2. The following issues have been fixed.
   1. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera, in rare instances, to experience a delayed restart after the camera has gone into Auto Power Off.
   2. Fixes an issue that, under specific circumstances and in rare instances, may prevent the image from being displayed in the viewfinder or on the screen causing the camera to stop operating, or Error Code 70 may be displayed.
   3. Fixes an issue that may cause the In-Body Image Stabilizer not to initialize when a vibration occurs when the camera is turned on, and Error Code 20 may be displayed.
   4. Fixes an issue that may result in Error Code 70 being displayed when the user is shooting in A+ Mode or with the camera set to AI Focus AF.
   5. Fixes an issue that may cause the card access lamp to start flashing and the camera to not operate normally when shooting small subjects.
   6. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera to continue shooting when the user presses the shutter button and another button at the same time.

Get the Canon EOS R7 at B&H.

Canon EOS R6 Mark II firmware update version 1.4.0 is available for download (Canon USA).

Firmware Version 1.4.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Increases [No. of shots] in [Interval timer] up to 9999.
2. Adds [FEM] to [Flash C.Fn settings]. Also, adds [ON/ETTL>M] to [Customize buttons]. Enables the ability to set Flash exposure memory (FE memory) from the camera when using Speedlites without an LCD panel.
3. Adds Protect Images During [FTP Transfer] to the camera menu. Images transferred via FTP can now be automatically protected. The user can determine if images have already been transferred via FTP.
4. The following issues have been fixed.
   1. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera, in rare instances, to experience a delayed restart after the camera has gone into Auto Power Off.
   2. Enhances security for FTPS (File Transfer Protocol Security) connections.
   3. Fixes an issue that, under specific circumstances and in rare instances, may prevent the image from being displayed in the viewfinder or on the screen causing the camera to stop operating, or Error Code 70 may be displayed.
   4. Fixes an issue that may cause the In-Body Image Stabilizer not to initialize when a vibration occurs when the camera is turned on, and Error Code 20 may be displayed.
   5. Fixes an issue that may result in Error Code 70 being displayed when the user is shooting in A+ Mode or with the camera set to AI Focus AF.
   6. Fixes an issue that may cause the card access lamp to start flashing and the camera to not operate normally when shooting small subjects.
   7. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera to continue shooting when the user presses the shutter button and another button at the same time.

Get the Canon EOS R6 Mark II at B&H.

Canon EOS R8 firmware update version 1.3.0 is available for download (Canon USA).

Firmware Version 1.3.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Adds [FEM] to [Flash C.Fn settings]. Also, adds [ON/ETTL>M] to [Customize buttons]. Enables the ability to set Flash exposure memory (FE memory) from the camera when using Speedlites without an LCD panel.
2. The following issues have been fixed.
   1. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera, in rare instances, to experience a delayed restart after the camera has gone into Auto Power Off.
   2. Fixes an issue that, under specific circumstances and in rare instances, may prevent the image from being displayed in the viewfinder or on the screen causing the camera to stop operating, or Error Code 70 may be displayed.
   3. Fixes an issue that may result in Error Code 70 being displayed when the user is shooting in A+ Mode or with the camera set to AI Focus AF.
   4. Fixes an issue that may cause the card access lamp to start flashing and the camera to not operate normally when shooting small subjects.
   5. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera to continue shooting when the user presses the shutter button and another button at the same time.

Get the Canon EOS R8 at B&H.

Canon EOS R50 firmware update version 1.2.0 is available for download (Canon USA).

Firmware Version 1.2.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Adds [FEM] to [Flash C.Fn settings]. Also, adds [ON/ETTL>M] to [Customize buttons]. Enables the ability to set Flash exposure memory (FE memory) from the camera when using Speedlites without an LCD panel.
2. The following issues have been fixed.
   1. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera, in rare instances, to experience a delayed restart after the camera has gone into Auto Power Off.
   2. Fixes an issue that, under specific circumstances and in rare instances, may prevent the image from being displayed in the viewfinder or on the screen causing the camera to stop operating, or Error Code 70 may be displayed.
   3. Fixes an issue that may result in Error Code 70 being displayed when the user is shooting in A+ Mode or with the camera set to AI Focus AF.
   4. Fixes an issue that may result in the external flash output level not being adjustable when using the control ring.
   5. Fixes an issue that may cause the card access lamp to start flashing and the camera to not operate normally when shooting small subjects.
   6. Fixes an issue that may cause the camera to continue shooting when the user presses the shutter button and another button at the same time.

Get the Canon EOS R50 at B&H.

Canon Speedlite EL-5 firmware update version 1.1.0 is available for download (Canon USA).

Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Adds [FEM] to [Flash C.Fn settings]. Also, adds [ON/ETTL>M] to [Customize buttons]. Enables the ability to set Flash exposure memory (FE memory) from the camera when using Speedlites without an LCD panel.

At firmware update announcement time, the Canon Speedlite EL-5 is on sale for half price at B&H, $199.00 vs. $399.00.