Canon EOS C500 Mark II firmware update version 1.0.9.1 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.0.9.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Canon EOS C300 Mark III firmware update version 1.0.7.1 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.0.7.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Canon EOS C70 firmware update version 1.0.8.1 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.0.8.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Canon EOS R6 firmware update version 1.8.3 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.8.3 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R6 at B&H.
Canon EOS R6 Mark II firmware update version 1.3.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.3.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R6 Mark II at B&H.
Canon EOS R8 firmware update version 1.2.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.2.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R8 at B&H.
Canon EOS R7 firmware update version 1.4.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.4.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R7 at B&H.
Canon EOS R3 firmware update version 1.6.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.6.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R3 at B&H.
Canon EOS R10 firmware update version 1.4.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.4.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R10 at B&H.
Canon EOS R50 firmware update version 1.1.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R50 at B&H.
Just posted: Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens Review.
This is a great little lens.
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Amazon (all available countries) | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada
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"Capture One Pro (16.3.2) is a service release containing bug fixes, a new preference for cameras capable of saving to both card and Capture One during tethered shooting, and support for new camera models."
New camera support includes:
Sony Alpha 7C R
Sony Alpha 7C II
Get the full details of this update in the release notes.
Get Capture One at B&H, where it is on sale for less than half price — only $139.00 (reg. $299.00).
The Canon EOS R5 and RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens combination was the perfect choice for the white-tailed deer I was photographing in the Shenandoah National Park woods.
The 400mm focal length permitted close enough working distances to avoid obstructions, and that focal length combined with the f/2.8 aperture blurred the abundant foreground and background distractions.
Then, this barred owl showed up. Obviously, owls are much smaller than deer, and suddenly, significantly more focal length was needed.
Fortunately, the friend I was shooting with solved that problem via a pair of extenders in his pocket. He opted to use the 1.4x on his lens, kindly loaning me the 2x.
The capability to go too 800mm was indispensable in this case.
After getting sharp insurance shots at faster shutter speeds, the exposure time was increased, decreasing the ISO setting for less noise. The keeper rate dropped, but only 1 sharp image was necessary, and the results surpassed that requirement.
A larger version of this image is available here.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics Announces Custom Gridline License Available for Alpha Camera Bodies
Various camera bodies starting with the Alpha 7 IV, etc.
SAN DIEGO – Nov. 28, 2023. Today, Sony Electronics announces a new custom gridline license planned for the Alpha 7 IVi in March 2024 onward, and more camera bodiesii in the future.
The new license offers the ability to import up to 4 customized original gridlines. The gridlines can be displayed on EVF (electronic viewfinder) and LCD (Monitor on the rear of the camera) when shooting which makes for easier, more consistent images. For example, staff at schools, photo studios, theme parks, cruise ships, malls, etc. will now have the ability to update their cameras with ease and utilize this tool for quick and precise, more professional shots. Imported customized gridlines are replaceable and color gridlines are available. Once gridlines are registered, it can be displayed with HDMI output as well. After shooting, users can check the images with the grid lines overlayed on EVF and LCD.
“The ability to import customized gridlines into a mirrorless camera is an essential feature for all of our photographers to capture images consistently,” says Frank Lombardo, National Photography Manager for Inter-State Studio and Publishing. “These simple gridlines keep head sizes the same for all our products and improve our production time. They also allow us to know where the edge of print will be during capture.”
“With a focus to improve both the consistency and quality of school photography, this advancement is a great foundation to a platform geared for volume photographers across the globe. Sony’s commitment to continually innovate along with their unparalleled support aligns perfectly with Strawbridge Studio’s, Inc. mission to provide the best picture day experience for schools across the country,” says Nic Davidson, Director of Photography of Strawbridge Studios, Inc.
"Sony’s commitment and support for this industry is unprecedented, from their support in student photography across the US to their training of future photographers and videographers and now, developing a camera system that will radically change the volume photography space for years to come," says David Crandall, the Executive Director of School Photographers of America (SPOA).
“Now anyone can make a pattern, import it, then change and improve it to their liking. The possibilities are endless - simply rotate the four favorite patterns you need for the job at hand. Sony gives us real practical solutions, allowing the School, Sports and Volume Photography industry to produce better, more accurate compositions. The ability to import any four graphics, then scroll between them makes our jobs easier and results better than ever before,” says John Rak, member of the School Photographers Association of California (SPAC).
Not only can this be utilized as gridlines, they can also be used as partially filled transparency masks. In addition to school and sports photography, Sony has positioned this to be used for businesses such as cruise lines, theme parks, nature photography, ID photography, dentistry, and CG photography. Sony hopes that this custom gridline feature will help improve the creativity and work efficiency of photographers in a variety of industries.
The license will be available at a suggested retail price of $149 USD through the Upgrade and License Management Suite at https://ulms.sony.net as of Spring 2024.
Notes:
i A license must be downloaded from Sony’s camera upgrade website: pro.sony/ue_US/digital-imaging/custom-gridline and installed in the camera.
ii Future compatible models will be announced through the web site below: https://pro.sony/en_ME/digital-imaging/
Image quality test results are now available on the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports Lens page.
I expect that you are going to like these results. Be sure to explore the range of focal lengths.
Let's look at some comparisons:
Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens (then look at the price difference)
Compared to the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens
Compared to the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens
Compared to the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
Just posted: Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens Review.
This is a fun lens.
Please share!
Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics and The Associated Press Complete Testing of Advanced In-Camera Authenticity Technology to Address Growing Concerns Around Fake Imagery
New In-Camera Signature Solution Attaches Digital Certificate to Photos at the Point of Capture to Certify Legitimacy
SAN DIEGO – Nov. 21, 2023 – Today, Sony Electronics announces the completion of a second round of testing for Sony’s in-camera authenticity technology with Associated Press. This in-camera digital signature allows for the creation of a birth certificate for images, validating the origin of the content.
Sony’s authenticity technology provides a machine-based digital signature, removing the opportunity for undetected manipulation at the start. The digital signature is made inside the camera at the moment of capture in the hardware chipset. This security feature is aimed at professionals wanting to safeguard the authenticity of their content and provides an extra layer of security to aid news agencies in their fight against falsified imagery.
“While the rapid evolution of generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) brings new possibilities for creative expression, it has also led to growing concern about the impact of altered or manipulated imagery in journalism,” says Neal Manowitz, President and COO of Sony Electronics. “The dissemination of false information and images has real world social impact that brings harm not only to our photojournalist and news agency partners, but to society as a whole. We care deeply about this challenge and are committed to using our resources to help solve it. Through Sony’s work on the steering committee for C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity), we have helped set the current industry standard for the tracking of editing and manipulation of imagery. Additionally, our in-camera authenticity technology has shown valuable results, and we will continue to push its development towards a wider release.”
“Fake and manipulated images are a major concern for news organizations. Not only do they contribute to mis- and disinformation but ultimately, they erode the public’s trust in factual, accurate imagery,” said David Ake, AP Director of Photography. “We are proud to be working alongside Sony Electronics to create an authentication solution that can help combat this problem.”
Sony and AP’s most recent field test was completed during October of 2023. In this month-long test, both capture authentication and workflow process were evaluated. To accomplish this, Sony partnered with Camera Bits – the company behind the industry standard workflow tool, Photo Mechanic. Alongside Sony and AP, Camera Bits created technology in Photo Mechanic that preserves the camera’s digital signature all the way through the metadata editing process.
“We appreciate the significant challenge that manipulated imagery poses for our partners, and we are highly motivated to play a role in helping solve it,” says Dennis Walker, President and Founder of Camera Bits. “Photo Mechanic has been used by the photojournalism industry for 25 years and continues to evolve as the industry introduces new technology. We are committed to ensuring Photo Mechanic remains a trusted and authentic workflow solution.”
Sony’s new in-camera signature and C2PA authentication is planned for release in a firmware update in the newly announced Alpha 9 III, Alpha 1, and Alpha 7S III in the Spring of 2024 i.
Just posted: Tamron 17-50mm F4 Di III VXD Lens Review.
Find out how this record-setting lens performs!
Support this site by ordering the Tamron 17-50mm F4 Di III VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Amazon (all available countries) | Adorama | Camera Canada | WEX
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From Sigma Corporation:
Sigma Announces Release of 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports Lens
Ronkonkoma, NY, November 16, 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 official release of the highly-anticipated SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports lens.
A reliable and lightweight large-aperture telephoto zoom lens designed exclusively for full-frame mirrorless cameras, the 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports is available for Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount. Combining high-speed AF, remarkably effective OS, exceptional mechanical reliability, and superior optical performance, this high-performance lens is purpose-built to meet the rigorous demands of professionals, and is suitable for a wide range of styles and genres including nature, wildlife, photojournalism, action sports, wedding and portraits. The lens will retail for $1,499 USD and will be available through authorized retailers on December 7, 2023.
Dust and splash-proof construction, high-performance optical stabilizer (OS), and an inner zoom mechanism that does not affect barrel length, are all features designed for the most demanding photographic conditions. It is also the first SIGMA DN zoom lens to be equipped with an aperture ring (click/declick type).
Streamlined optical design and a multi-material structure featuring magnesium and TSC have resulted in a lightweight lens body. A new compact tripod collar and foot also help minimize weight, as does a CFRP (carbon fiber-reinforced plastic) lens hood. Compared to the 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports for DSLR cameras (1,805g for SA mount), the 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports is significantly lighter (1,345g for L-Mount).
Featuring Dual HLA-driven floating focus for fast, accurate AF, the focus lens is driven using a high-thrust HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) as the focus actuator, and a floating focus is used to achieve high-speed AF drive. The floating configuration of this lens, in which the two focus groups are driven in opposite directions, reduces the amount of movement of each focus group to about half that of a single group focus system, achieving extremely fast AF that is highly responsive. The latest OS2 stabilization algorithm achieves image stabilization performance of 7.5 stops at the Wide end and 5.5 stops at the Tele end.
The SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports has very minimal focus breathing on both the wide and tele ends, making it a powerful lens for video applications. The minimal change in center of gravity enables stable shooting in all situations, including handheld, on a tripod, and with a gimbal. During zooming, five groups are moved to suppress aberration fluctuation, achieving high optical performance throughout the zoom range.
Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras
S | Sports
SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS
Performance, reliability, and mobility at its highest level.
Supplied accessories: Case, LENS HOOD LH860-01, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-151, FRONT CAP LCF-77mm III, REAR CAP LCR II
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
Launch date: December 7, 2023
* The appearance and specifications of the products are subject to change.
* Sony E-mount lenses are developed, manufactured and sold in accordance with the E-mount specifications licensed under a license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
#SIGMA #SIGMA70200mmSports #SIGMASports #SIGMADGDN
Packed with all the technology SIGMA has to offer.
The large F2.8 aperture provides stable and high descriptive performance at all zoom and focus ranges. The high-speed AF with a dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) based on a floating focus structure, and the Optical Stabilizer function with the OS2 algorithm with up to 7.5 stops of correction effect*, ensure that users can take the right shot when there is no room for error. The highly mobile lens with high durability, rigidity, and texture is equipped with a wealth of functions to assist comfortable shooting, including an inner zoom mechanism for easy handling, as well as an aperture ring and switches with various customization functions. The flagship SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports, combined with the best of SIGMA's latest technologies to meet the high-level demands of professionals, has finally arrived.
* Based on CIPA guidelines (Measured at 70mm and 200mm with a 35mm full-frame image sensor)
[Key Features]
1. High-speed AF and optical stabilizer function that maximize superior optical performance
The SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports, developed with professional use in mind, offers not only high optical performance, but also high-speed AF with a dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) and an optical stabilizer function with up to 7.5 stops. The Sports line lenses offer high optical performance, and all functions are based on state-of-the-art technology.
High descriptive performance at all zoom and focus ranges
The latest optical design, which employs luxurious glass materials including 6 FLD and 2 SLD elements of special low-dispersion glass, delivers high resolving power throughout the entire zoom range. Three aspherical lenses are used, as they are now indispensable for superior optical performance and streamlined lens construction. The exceptionally high precision of the aspherical lenses, which take advantage of the technical capabilities of SIGMA's only production facility, the Aizu factory, further improves optical performance. The incorporated floating focus is advantageous in improving short-range performance, ensuring a stable, high-level image quality throughout the entire range from the minimum focusing distance to infinity.
High-speed AF with a dual HLA
The SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports with floating focus has a structure in which the two focus groups move in opposite directions, thereby reducing the amount of focus lens movement by about half. In addition, the use of an HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motor in each of the two focus groups enables high-speed autofocusing. In addition to being fast and accurate, the lens also employs a control program that is designed to be quiet, so users can shoot movies comfortably without worrying about noise.
OS2 algorithm in optical stabilizer function
The latest OS2 optical stabilization algorithm provides an extremely high image stabilization effect of 7.5 stops at the wide end and 5.5 stops at the telephoto end*. The lens is equipped with two OS modes: Mode 1 is suitable for general shooting, and Mode 2 is ideal for panning shots of motorsports and other sports. In Mode 2, SIGMA's Intelligent OS, an algorithm specially designed for panning shots, enables effective image stabilization even when the camera is moved vertically or diagonally, irrespective of the horizontal and vertical orientation. This ensures that the subject's movement can be captured without losing the panning shot effect.
* Based on CIPA guidelines (Measured at 70mm and 200mm with a 35mm full-frame image sensor)
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.
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, are addressed under all conditions of incident light based on the most advanced simulation technology. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions.
2. Top-level build quality condensed into a highly mobile lens
SIGMA is committed to excellent build quality in all its lenses. Among them, the SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports, which is part of the Sports line, offers not only high weather resistance performance for shooting in harsh environments, but also improved quality and durability through the use of cutting-edge materials in appropriate places based on a streamlined optical and mechanical design. At the same time, a high level of mobility is also realized, resulting in a professional equipment that can be used with confidence over the long term.
High quality and durability despite its small size and light weight
The latest optical and mechanical design streamlines the lens configuration and internal structure, resulting in a significantly smaller and lighter body than the previous SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports model. The body, including the hood, features a "multi-material structure" that optimally arranges materials such as magnesium, CFRP*1, and TSC*2. Even with enhanced mobility, the lens features SIGMA's renowned excellent build quality, including high durability, reliable rigidity, and various control rings and switches that have been carefully designed to feel good.
* 1 CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic), a light but strong material used in the interior and exterior fittings of aircraft, among many other applications.
* 2 TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) is a type of polycarbonate with a thermal expansion rate similar to that of aluminum. It has high affinity to metal parts which contributes to high quality product manufacturing.
Adoption of inner zoom mechanism
The zoom mechanism employs an inner zoom. Since the total length of the lens does not change with zoom operation, it is easy to handle when shooting hand-held, highly stable when installed on a gimbal, and resistant to dust and water droplets.
Weatherability of Sports line specifications
The mount connection, manual focus ring, zoom ring, switches, switch panel and exterior connection are all dust and splash resistant* to prevent dust and dirt from entering the lens. Further, the front element of the lens features a water and oil repellent coating to facilitate maintenance when water droplets or dust adhere to the lens.
* The structure is designed to be dust and splash resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.
3. A wealth of functions to assist professional photographers
In addition to an aperture ring, a magnesium tripod mount, and various switches, the highly mobile lens has a wealth of functions available, enabling a more comfortable and versatile shooting experience for users.
Equipped with an aperture ring
This is the first SIGMA zoom lens for still photography to be equipped with an aperture ring. It is also equipped with an aperture ring click switch and an aperture ring lock switch, allowing for aperture operation suited to the shooting application.
Newly developed tripod socket
The lens body incorporates an Arca-Swiss compatible magnesium alloy tripod socket. The detachable leg is newly designed for the SIGMA 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports in order to achieve a compact and lightweight design.
Customizable functions
Equipped with a Focus Limiter switch, the lens enables users to limit the focus driving range during AF when necessary, allowing quick and precise focusing.
Further, the lens features three AFL buttons* ready to be assigned to preferred functions using the camera. The AFL buttons are easy to operate regardless of how the camera is oriented or which settings are used.
For the L-Mount version, the SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 can be used to set OS operation or focus limiter range for the Custom Mode switch.
* Only on compatible cameras. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used.
Tele Converter for L-Mount (1.4x / 2.0x)
The L-Mount version of the lens is compatible with the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1411 (1.4x) and TC-2011 (2.0x). Using a tele converter, the focal length can be multiplied by 1.4x and even 2x, for AF-enabled shooting at ultra-telephoto focal lengths of up to 400mm.
Cover-type lens hood included
A lightweight, high-strength, exclusive cover-type lens hood made of CFRP* is included. In addition to its slim design that does not impair the mobility of the lens, the tip of the hood is rubberized to protect the lens from abrasion and scratches caused by placing the lens upside down.
* CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic), a light but strong material used in the interior and exterior fittings of aircraft, among many other applications.
[ Additional Features ]
[ Key Specifications ]
The following specifications are for L-Mount.
Lens Construction: 20 elements in 15 groups (6 FLD, 2 SLD, 3 aspherical elements) Angle of view: 34.3° - 12.3° Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum aperture: F22 Minimum focusing distance: 65 (W) - 100 (T) cm / 25.6 (W) - 39.4 (T) in. Maximum magnification ratio: 1:5.2 (at focal length 200mm) Filter size: 77mm Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 3.6 x 8.1 in. / 90.6 x 205mm Weight: 47.4 oz. / 1,345g (includes tripod foot)
Orders
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Camera Canada
Image quality test results are now available on the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens page.
Here is the comparison with the EF 11-24mm f/4L USM Lens.
I know. In addition to testing the 6 marked focal lengths on this lens, I should have estimated 11mm and included those results for the perfect match. Select the nearest tested focal lengths and use your visualization skills for he in between results.
Please share!
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