Do you have go-to locations to use when you must bring home high-quality images?
Three new cameras (Sony Alpha 7C R, Alpha 7C II, and Alpha 6700), two new lenses (Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II Lens and Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens), and some new accessories needed a workout. When many good images are needed, that go-to location is called upon, and it the success rate at Ricketts Glen State Park in the fall is high.
The optimal (cloudy) weather forecast selected the day choice, and the above gear (plus some additional gear and food) went into a MindShift Gear BackLight 26L for a big day in the field.
I have many favorite photo locations in this park and often revisit them as it seems new angles that create different, often better, results can often be found. In this case, Triangle Falls was the revisited subject, and I wanted a slightly lower-angle image than the last one from here.
As I said when posting that image, sometimes the picture does not tell the full story. While this image appears to be a simple capture, you don't see that the rock I'm standing on is slippery and the RRS TVC-24L Mk2 Tripod is in the fast-flowing water. Learned was that the tripod flowing downstream during exposures creates interesting motion blurs.
Fast-flowing water meeting a stationary object causes splashing, and in addition to forcing recomposition, the fast-flowing water also splashed onto the camera and lens from the tripod legs positioned forward of the camera. The mentioned lower angle perspective positioned the lens close to the water, and the splashing water was hitting the circular polarizer filter (responsible for this image's deep saturated colors). Thus, wiping the filter with a microfiber cloth between every shot was part of the process, with hope that the next exposure would finish before the water drops reappeared or the tripod washed downstream again. The cameras' weather sealing was appreciated in this scenario.
Fortunately, patience and repetition prevailed, and there were sufficient good images to select from.
The a7C R and FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II got the call for this image. This full-featured compact camera delivers incredibly detailed images, and this lens has the optical quality to support that extreme resolution. This combination is an outstanding choice for landscape and travel photography.
Sony Alpha 7R V firmware update version 2.01 is available for download.
Firmware Version 2.01 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Sony Alpha 7R V at B&H.
Sony Alpha 6700 firmware update version 1.02 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.02 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Sony Alpha 6700 at B&H.
The Sony Alpha 7C R and Sony Alpha 7C II cameras are here, and it is time to set up these cameras for use. For setup purposes, these cameras are identical, and the steps taken to prepare out-of-the-box a7C R and 7C II cameras for use are as follows.
I make additional menu and other setting changes based on current shooting scenarios, but this list covers my initial camera setup process.
To copy this configuration means you intend to shoot as I do, including in RAW-only format. While this setup works optimally for me, you should adjust the camera setup to your needs.
If you can't remember your menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a great idea. Anytime the camera is set to the factory state, such as when serviced or when acquiring an additional camera, the list will ensure all settings are quickly re-established. Consider saving the camera settings to a card (Tools menu, tab 2, Reset/Save Settings) for an easy restore or replication. The setup file can be copied to a computer drive for long-term storage. Unfortunately, I couldn't load the a7C R settings on the a7C II.
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Just posted: Sony E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS Lens Review.
This lens is tiny, ultra-light, and affordable (especially in used condition).
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Just posted: Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens Review.
Again, this is going to be a popular lens.
Sharing this review supports the site.
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Two weeks of guiding elk photography in Rocky Mountain National Park resulted in a rather overwhelming number of images. Selecting the keepers is a huge project, and deciding which image to share first was daunting. It seems that everyone loves breath shots, so I'll start with that option.
This bull walked in so close to us that it didn't fit in the 600mm frame when its head was turned. While I liked the tight image that crops the back of the antlers, I knew that having the entire elk and its breath in the frame might be an option I later wanted.
To avail that option, additional images containing the cropped content on the left and right were captured immediately after the primary image, and the three images were manually stitched in Photoshop as a panorama.
This image utilized a camera position near the ground, just high enough to create a blur that transitions into the animal's legs, and elk legs are one of my favorite leading line sources, especially when they are equally spaced apart. The relatively close proximity of the elk combined with the distant background creates a strong background blur that makes this bull stand out.
Getting obvious breath in an image requires cold temperatures and a supporting background. While I could see the breath in many other images by the changes apparent when browsing one after the other, light-colored and detailed backgrounds often hide the breath in single images. A dark background and backlighting create an ideal scenario for making the breath element obvious.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Apparently, the new RF 10-20 is popular. From Canon Japan (translated):
Apology and information regarding product supply status
Update date: October 13, 2023
Thank you for your continued patronage of Canon products.
Currently, we have received more orders than expected for each of the following products, and due to the impact of global supply of parts, delivery delays are occurring. Expected that the new product RF100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM will take a lot of time. We apologize again for making our customers wait so long. We will continue to take measures for stable product supply so that we can deliver products as soon as possible. Thank you kindly look forward for your understanding.
Product Name – About Supply
We are planning to ship sequentially, but it is expected that it will take a considerable amount of time to deliver. Even if you have already placed an order, it may be difficult to deliver it within 2023.
RF10-20mm F4 L IS STM
RF400mm F2.8L IS USM
We plan to ship the items in sequence, but delivery may take longer than usual.
Details are loaded on the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens page.
This new lens is dramatically lighter, smaller, and less expensive than its predecessor! Check out the MTF chart comparison.
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From Canon USA:
GOING WIDE: CANON INTRODUCES THE RF10-20MM F4 L IS STM TO ITS LENS LINEUP
MELVILLE, NY, October 11, 2023 – Today, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced the launch of the RF10-20MM F4 L IS STM lens, a full-frame ultra wide-angle lens that can help the work of a professional photographer or serious enthusiast stand out from the crowd.
Opening the door to supreme full-frame visual possibilities, the RF10-20MM F4 L IS STM lens continues Canon’s respected reputation for optical excellence associated with L-series lenses. This new addition enhances optical performance with a modern mirrorless lens design that is fully equipped with key features, including:
Speaking directly to the professional video and stills visual storyteller, the RF10-20MM F4 L IS STM features a built-in lens hood and lens function button on the barrel for customizing functions such as AF settings, Pre-Recording, Zebras and more. For landscapes, cityscapes, architectural, real estate and weddings, the RF10-20MM F4 L IS STM lens is a widely important lens for any professional to have at the ready.
Price & Availability
The Canon RF10-20MM F4 L IS STM lens is expected to be available in November for an estimated retail price of $2,299.00*.
# # #
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
* Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Camera Canada | WEX
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Learn more here: Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens
Just posted: Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II Lens Review
This is a great little lens.
I need you to share this review!
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From Sigma Corporation:
Development announcement of SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS|Sports
The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the development of the SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports.
The SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports is a large-aperture zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. In addition to the expressive imaging capabilities owing to the latest optical design, the lens offers a high level of performance and features that meet the expectations of professionals in both still and video, including high-speed autofocus with HLA (High-response Linear Actuator), optical stabilizer with the latest algorithm "OS2", and the superior weather resistance of SIGMA’s Sports line.
Combined with the SIGMA 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art and the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, SIGMA's three zoom lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras with a bright F2.8 constant aperture cover a wide range of focal lengths.
Launch: December, 2023
Available mounts: 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
Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results, along with specs, measurements, and standard product images, are now available on the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens page.
This is going to be a popular lens.
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Support this site by ordering the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama
From Sigma Corporation of America:
SIGMA Announces 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, the World's Smallest and Lightest F2.8 Zoom Lens for APS-C Mirrorless Cameras
Ronkonkoma, NY – October 5, 2023 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary lens. This is the first SIGMA lens being announced and released concurrently for the L-Mount, Sony E-mount and Fujifilm X Mount. The lens will be available through authorized retail partners on October 26, 2023 for $599.
This is the world's smallest and lightest F2.8 zoom lens designed for APS-C format mirrorless systems at just 2.8 x 2.4 inches (72.2 x 62mm) and 9.2 ounces (260g)*. The lens covers a 15-27mm (35mm equivalent) focal range, with a fast F2.8 constant aperture. Paired with the 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, this duo of lenses covers a 15-75mm (35mm equivalent) range with the same bright F2.8 maximum aperture at a combined weight of under 19.5 ounces (550g).
* As an AF F2.8 zoom lens for mirrorless cameras with an APS-C sensor. As of October 2023 by SIGMA. Figures are for L-Mount. Additional specifications included in the full press release below.
The SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary uses an aspherical concave lens with a large polarization ratio and high refractive index in the first group, reducing the number of elements in the first group and shortening the overall length. Additionally, a new push-on petal type hood has been developed. Thanks to the new structure with a spring and lever, which is not utilized by any other manufacturer, the hood has been made both thinner and smaller, which also contributes to the overall compactness of the lens.
The optical design of the lens delivers a short 4.6 inch (11.6cm) minimum focusing distance and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4 at the wide end, allowing for close-up photography with pleasing background separation. The optical design also minimizes focus breathing, and the stepping motor delivers swift, quiet autofocus during both still and video use.
Thanks to its high optical quality and compact size, the SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary lens is an excellent choice for travelers, adventure photographers, vloggers, content creators, and family photographers who want great image quality when paired with today's leading lightweight crop-sensor cameras on the three supported mirrorless platforms.
#SIGMA #SIGMA1018mmContemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMAContemporaryZoom
C | Contemporary
SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN
Small lens, big personality
Available: October 26th, 2023
Supplied accessories: Push-on petal type hood LH706-02, FRONT CAP LCF-67mm ?, REAR CAP LCR II
Available mount: L-Mount, Sony E-mount, FUJIFILM X 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 #SIGMA1018mmContemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMAContemporaryZoom #SIGMADCDN
Create expressive images on the go with the world's smallest and lightest ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for APS-C cameras*
The SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary is the world's smallest and lightest ultra-wide- angle zoom lens for APS-C cameras*, covering an effective focal range of 15-27mm (35mm equivalent). With ultra-sharp optics, a bright F2.8 aperture and a newly developed push-on petal type lens hood, photographers can create expressive images anytime, anywhere. The lens features a unique aspherical element that reduces the overall size of the lens and enhances image quality.
An 11.6cm (1:4) minimum focusing distance to produce unique compositions, with expansive backgrounds and pleasing bokeh. With a weight of only 260g*, a fast AF stepping motor and minimal focus breathing, the lens can be easily mounted onto a motorized gimbal to create impressive video content for social media use and professional projects. The lens is available for L-Mount, Sony E-Mount and FUJIFILM X Mount systems.
* As an AF F2.8 zoom lens for mirrorless cameras with an APS-C sensor. As of October, 2023 by SIGMA.
* L-Mount Specification.
[Key features]
1. Large-aperture, ultra-wide-angle zoom with expressive imaging capabilities
By utilizing unique optics which have been designed to correct lens aberrations, the SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary produces images that are sharp across the entire image.
Aspherical lens, special low-dispersion glass
The use of an aspherical lens with large eccentricity and refractive index as the first lens element has enabled a lens construction with a reduced number of elements. Used in conjunction with multiple aspherical lenses and special low-dispersion glass, the lens can produce high resolution images whilst remaining compact and lightweight.
Minimum focusing distance 11.6cm, maximum magnification ratio 1:4
Create expressive close-up images using the 11.6cm minimum focusing distance when shooting at 10mm. With a magnification ratio of 1:4, the lens captures unique portraits, still life and more.
2. Extremely compact and lightweight
The SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary is the world's smallest and lightest ultra-wide angle zoom lens for APS-C cameras*, with a length of 62.0mm, a maximum diameter of 72.2mm, and a weight of 260g*. The lens can be carried around with ease or attached to an APS-C mirrorless camera and a gimbal to create an ultra-portable video setup.
* As an AF F2.8 zoom lens for mirrorless cameras with an APS-C sensor. As of October, 2023 by SIGMA.
* The values are for L-mount.
Newly developed push-on petal type hood
A newly developed push-on petal type hood is included with the lens. Unlike the conventional bayonet type lens hoods that attach with a rotating movement, this push-on type lens hood is attached onto the lens using a spring and lever system. The implementation of this new design reduces the size and thickness of the hood so that it matches the compact size of the lens.
Compact, lightweight, high-performance F2.8 constant aperture zoom lens series
When combined with the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, a total, unbroken focal range of 15-75mm (35mm equivalent) with a constant F2.8 aperture can be covered. The combined weight of both lenses is only 550g.
* The values are for L-mount.
Fast-growing lineup of lenses for APS-C mirrorless cameras
In addition to the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, the lineup of lenses for APS-C mirrorless cameras includes 16mm, 23mm, 30mm, and 56mm prime lenses, all with F1.4 brightness. This flexible lens selection can be used for a wide variety of photographic applications.
*Lineup is as of October 2023.
Mount with dust and splash resistant structure
The lens mount incorporates rubber sealing to protect it from dust and water drops.
3. Ideal for landscapes, travel, video and online content creation
With ultra-wide focal length, portable body and razor-sharp optics, the SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary is the perfect portable option for landscape, travel, interior and street photography. It also boasts impressive video capability owing to its bright F2.8 aperture, which makes it well-suited to shooting in low-light environments and creating a shallow depth-of-field. The ultra-wide angle-of-view is ideal for hand-held vlogging that requires the capture of both the subject and the environment.
Designed to minimize focus breathing
The lens has been designed to suppress focus breathing. The change in angle-of-view due to focus shift is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus shift when recording video.
Supports various camera functions
The lens is compatible with the electronic image stabilization function, aberration correction function, DMF, and AF+MF in camera bodies from various manufacturers. The advantage using this ultra-wide-angle lens is that it provides a generous angle-of-view even when the electronic image stabilization function crops the image.
* Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections or auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model.
Stepping Motor
A fast and quiet stepping motor is used to deliver precise AF when shooting stills and video. It is fully compatible with in-camera AF tracking modes.
[Additional features]
To learn more about SIGMA’s craftsmanship, please visit SIGMA website at: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/craftsmanship/
[Key specifications] The figures below are for L-Mount.
Lens construction: 13 elements in 10 groups (3 FLD, 1 SLD, and 4 aspherical elements)
Angle of view: 109.7°-76.5° (APS-C)|Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum aperture: F22|Minimum focusing distance: 11.6 (W) -19.1 (T) cm / 4.6 (W) -7.6 (T) in. | Maximum magnification ratio: 1:4 (W) - 1:6.9 (T)|Filter size: f67mm
Dimensions (Maximum Diameter x Length): f72.2mm × 62.0mm / f2.8in. × 2.4in.
Weight: 260g / 9.2oz.
[Barcode]
L-Mount: 0085126 207694 Sony E-mount: 0085126 207656 FUJIFILM X Mount 0085126 207755
[Accessories: Supplied] Name of product / barcode
Lens Hood LH706-02: 0085126 941093
FRONT CAP LCF-67mm: 0085126 929473
REAR CAP LCR: L-Mount 0085126 937256
Sony E-mount 0085126 929879
FUJIFILM X Mount 0085126 939861
[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
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama
Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results, along with specs and standard product images, are now available on the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II Lens page.
The Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II Lens is shown between the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens in this post's image, showing the II's nicely reduced size.
Let's look at some image quality comparisons:
Compared to the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens
Compared to the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Lens
Compared to the Sigma 16-28mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens
Compared to the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens
Compared to the Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
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Sony ZV-E1 firmware update version 1.02 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.02 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Support this site by ordering the Sony ZV-E1 at B&H.
Sony Alpha 7 IV firmware update version 2.0.1 is available for download.
* Please read the provided instructions before proceeding. The firmware installation order requirement is specified.
Firmware Version 2.0.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H.
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III firmware update version 1.8.0 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.8.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III at B&H.
Canon EOS R8 firmware update version 1.1.0 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R8 at B&H.
Canon EOS R6 Mark II firmware update version 1.2.0 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.2.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R6 Mark II at B&H.