(Page 24)
It was adventure day. Some new gear was in house, two of the girls were home and anxious to go somewhere, and a plan was quickly formulated.
Gear prep included mounting a Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens to the Sony Alpha 6700 and the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens to a Sony Alpha 1. For fast access, both kits were put into Lowepro Photo Active TLZ AW Top-Loader Camera Bags, the 45 and 50 respectively. A CPL filter for each lens was stowed in the case's front pocket.
We picked up sandwiches and drove close to 2 hours to the boulder field at Hickory Run State Park. After hiking out onto the rocks beyond the other visitors, the a6700 was pulled out for the requisite rock and cloud photos. That's when I discovered that the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens was mounted instead of the 16-35. The lenses are similar in appearance, and both were on my desk for evaluating the a6700.
While the FE 24-70 II is an outstanding lens, the angle of view was not as wide as I wanted for an APS-C camera body at this location. Still, the 24-70mm APS-C angle of view range worked fine for the primary need, field use with the a6700.
Our next location involved a close to 2-mile hike to a river gorge vista. Again the 16-35 would have been ideal, but good use for the 24-70mm range was availed. When photographing a still subject while focal length limited on the wide end, a panorama technique is a great option, and I made that happen.
As we explored the relatively small rock outcropping, my middle daughter shouted "Copperhead!", referring to one of the three venomous snakes found in Pennsylvania. All of us watched parts of the snake move through the mountain laurel and rocks that prevented a view clear enough for a photo.
Soon, the snake went under a rock, and we went back out onto the rocks. A few minutes later, the same daughter and I simultaneously spotted a timber rattlesnake hiding in the shade of rock layers included in the landscape pictures already captured. The dark-phased snake was highly camouflaged by the shadow it was in. Within seconds, we had the rest of the area scanned, with the realization that we were hanging out with 8 copperheads and two timber rattlers, one of which was quite large.
With a heightened sense of awareness, we began observing this location's newly availed photo subjects. While the 70-200 still in the car would have been the ideal lens, it didn't make this hike's light packing list. However, the inadvertently included 24-70 got the job done much better than the 16-35 would have.
Snakes under light-colored rocks on a sunny day create a dynamic range challenge. To overcome that obstacle, a well-positioned daughter created shade.
Numerous compositions were captured, but none of them show the awkwardness of photographing these snakes in rock cracks. To get low enough to see the snake and get the desired eye-level view, the back of my hand was on the rock, supporting (and protecting) the camera along with some upper body weight. While the a6700's LCD rotates, the angle reflected the sun, making the display unusable, and looking through the viewfinder at this height added to the challenge. Scars heal, but memories aided by digital images last a lifetime.
The elevation angle was easy to discern, but the side-to-side position decision was not as easy. In this example, the shallow f/2.8 plane of sharp focus was aligned to include the visible eyes of both snakes.
To those who fear snakes and are feeling creeped out by this image, understand that we were not in danger. While they are venomous, copperheads and timber rattlesnakes are generally docile if not attacked. Fleeing is their first choice vs. biting, and these snakes didn't care that we were there.
We said goodbye to the vipers and moved on to the next stop on the adventure.
Processing this image involved a minor complication. Despite the daughter shade, the snakes under the rock were darker than the rock above and in front of it. A manually processed single-image HDR strategy evened the lighting.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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The Sony Alpha 6700 is here, and it is time to set up this camera for use. Following are the steps taken to prepare an out-of-the-box a6700.
- Charge the battery. Note that a battery charger or USB cable is not included in the box.
- Record the serial number, and add the camera to insurance policy
- Download and install Capture One (for Sony) or Sony Imaging Edge if you want free RAW image processing software.
- Insert the charged battery, and power on the camera
- Insert a memory card (we'll format it later)
- Select M mode press "Menu" and configure the camera as follows:
- Set the time zone date time timeformat
- Shooting Menu 1 Image Quality: Image Quality Settings: File Format: RAW (provides the best image quality)
- Shooting Menu 1 Image Quality: Image Quality Settings: RAW File Type: Lossless Compressed (full image quality reduced file size)
- Shooting Menu 1 Image Quality: Long Exposure NR: Off (I'll enable this option for very long exposures)
- Shooting Menu 1 High ISO NR: Low
- Shooting Menu 1 Image Quality: Lens Compensation: Shading Chromatic Aberration and Distortion Comp: All Off (I use the RAW processing software to enable any lens compensation with CA correction frequently selected)
- Shooting Menu 2 Media: Format (ensure there are no important files on the card(s) prior to formatting)
- Shooting Menu 3 File: Copyright Info: Write Copyright Info: On Set Photographer: [your name] Set Copyright: [as desired] Write Serial Number: On (note: entering this information on the touchscreen may be a painful process)
- Shooting Menu 5 Drive Mode: Bracket Settings: Selftimer during Bracket: 2 Sec
- Shooting Menu 5 Drive Mode: Bracket Settings: Bracket order: ->0>+ (eases image selection for HDR processing)
- Shooting Menu 6 Shutter/Silent: Release w/o Lens: Disable
- Shooting Menu 6 Shutter/Silent: Release w/o Card: Disable (why is this not the default?)
- Shooting Menu 9 Shooting Display: Grid Line Display: On (Rule of Thirds selected)
- Exposure/Color Menu 6 Color/Tone: D-Range Optimizer: Off
- Exposure/Color Menu 6 Color/Tone: Creative Look: NT (Neutral) Sharpness = 1 (this setting provides a lower contrast histogram. I usually process with the Natural creative style in Capture One)
- Focus Menu 1 AF/MF: Focus Mode: Single-shot AF (I prefer to control the type of focusing in use, Single-shot or Continuous AF)
- Focus Menu 1 AF/MF: Priority Set in AF-S: AF
- Focus Menu 1 AF/MF: Priority Set in AF-C: AF
- Focus Menu 2 Focus Area: Focus Area: Spot: S (I change this setting frequently)
- Focus Menu 2 Switch V/H AF Area: AF Point Only
- Focus Menu 4 Initial Focus Mag.:c x6.1
- Focus Menu 5 Peaking Display: On
- Playback Menu 4 Delete confirm.: "Delete" first
- Playback Menu 7 Playback Option: Display Rotation: Off (image fills LCD)
- Network Menu: 7 Network Menu: Airplane Mode: On
- Setup Menu: 3 Operation Customize: Custom Key/Dial Set.: Rear1: Focus Mode
- Setup Menu: 4 Dial Customize: Custom Key/Dial Set.: Dial/Wheel: Front Dial: Av/Tv (Tv in M mode) (option #2) (I adjust the shutter speed more frequently and urgently than aperture and the front dial is easier to access quickly); Rear Dial: Av/Tv (Av in M mode)
- Setup Menu: 5 Touch Operations: Touch Panel/Pad: Both Valid
- Setup Menu: 5 Touch Operations: Touch Pad Settings: Touch Position Mode: Relative Position
- Setup Menu: 10 Sound Option: Audio signals: Off (how to turn off the loud and usually-annoying AF beep sound)
- My Menu: Format, Shutter Type, Steady Shot, Recognition Target, Anti-flicker Set., Flash Comp.
- With a lens mounted and a subject in focus adjust the viewfinder diopter until the scene is sharp
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 (Setup menu, tab 2: Reset/Save Settings menu, Save/Load Settings, Save) for an easy restore or replication. The setup file can be copied to a computer drive for long-term storage.
More Information
Support this site by ordering the Sony a6700 from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX
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Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results are now available on the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens Review.
Here are some comparisons:
Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens
Compared to the Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens
Compared to the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
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Atomos Announces New Ninja Series
The industry-leading ProRes monitor-recorder just goes from strength to strength
Melbourne, Australia – 14th August 2023 – Atomos has announced the latest generation of its hugely successful Ninja line of camera-mounted monitor-recorders: Ninja and Ninja Ultra.
The original Ninja rocked the world when it was introduced in 2010, combining an HD disk recorder with a touchscreen monitor you could hold in your hand. It captured pristine, uncompressed video direct from the first generation of DSLRs straight onto a removable SSD.
The latest Ninja base model handles video sources up to nine times that resolution, has a 5-inch HDR screen, records ProRes RAW, and connects to almost every camera in the world. Little wonder “Atomos” is now in the vocabulary of almost every filmmaker.
A key component of both new Ninja models is the completely overhauled operating system, AtomOS 11. Cleaner, fresher and faster, thanks to hardware performance optimized for AtomOS 11, it delivers a host of new features too, including EL Zone exposure referenced colorized image, ARRI False Color, and new scheduled playback & recording tools.
Both models sport a distinctive ‘camo’ color polycarbonate body and now include more codecs as standard: 6K ProRes RAW, ProRes, DNxHD as well as H.265, which was previously available as a paid option.
While the Ninja is targeted primarily at owners of DSLR and mirrorless cameras, Ninja Ultra is built to get the most out of camera to cloud technology and leans into cinematic workflows with Atomos Connect. It can record full-quality files to ProRes RAW up to 4K 60p while at the same time recording HD 60p to H.265, and supports automatic matching filenames, timecode and record from ARRI, Canon and RED cameras. More cameras will be supported very soon.
Ninja Ultra’s new 4K camera to cloud mode lets you record and upload much higher quality bitrate H.265 video with higher framerates. H.265 files are half the size of H.264 media. They’re small enough for camera to cloud workflows but more than good enough for immediate use on social media, sports reporting or news gathering.
Adding an Atomos Connect expansion module to either a Ninja or a Ninja Ultra enables Atomos RemoteView - a brand new technology that lets you share live views from your Atomos screen with other Atomos monitors, as well as with iPads, Macs and Apple TVs wirelessly. You can monitor what’s happening on-set and look through any connected camera taking the shot, from anywhere in the world. RemoteView is a total game-changer for remote production, offering many new features never seen before.
For Ninja Ultra only, the Atomos Connect module provides a lower latency, higher throughput and more stable connection with Wi-Fi 6E. Once again, Atomos is leading the way by incorporating this cutting-edge Wi-Fi standard into its cloud-enabled products.
Both Ninjas are backwards-compatible with their predecessors, Ninja V and Ninja V+, so all Atomos and third-party accessories can be used with the new products.
“While we continue to innovate, we continue to listen to our customers too,” said Trevor Elbourne, CEO of Atomos. “Ninja remains the go-to ProRes monitor-recorder for individual content creators and freelancers, but with even more functionality. If cloud connectivity is not your priority right now, that’s no problem at all - you can just add that option further down the road as your business dictates.”
“Ninja Ultra, on the other hand, has been tuned for cinematic workflows as well as the cloud, although we strongly recommend that it’s paired with the Atomos Connect module to maximize its potential for studios and broadcast facilities. The addition of dual recording in 4Kp60 ProRes RAW and H.265 has been the most requested feature since we introduced cloud-enabled products last year.”
Both Ninja and Ninja Ultra will be shipping from early September 2023, priced at $599/€599 and $799/€799 respectively, excluding local sales taxes. You can see them both at IBC, Amsterdam on the Atomos booth (11.D25).
Orders
Learn more about the new Atomos Ninja and Ninja Ultra 5" On-Camera Monitors at B&H.
Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results, along with standard product images, are now available on the Sony E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS Lens Review.
This lens is tiny, ultra-light, and affordable (especially in used condition).
Support this site by ordering the Sony E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX | KEH | MPB
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To an observer unfamiliar with elk behavior, this bull's antler flossing may not make sense. However, it is all about the scents.
Pine trees smell great to me, and apparently, this elk would agree. Or, at least pine trees are a good place to get and leave scents.
A larger version of this image is available here.
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Learn more about the new PressPass Series at Think Tank Photo.
Don't forget that you'll get a free gift and free shipping when using this site's links for your purchase at Think Tank Photo ($50.00 minimum purchase required).
Tamron has posted 2nd Quarter FY2023 Financial Results.
Page 3 provides a quick-read summary.
"Operating income, ordinary income, and net income in the 1st Half reached our historic high for two consecutive years."
Sony's FY 2023 Q1 financial results are available on the Investor Relations page.
Presentation (track ET&S for the Entertainment, Technology & Services Segment (cameras), I&SS for the Imaging and Sensing Solutions segment)
Speech Transcript
Financial Statements
Supplementary Information
Webcast
This report shows the Entertainment, Technology & Services showing a nice (4%) sales increase (digital cameras specifically mentioned) and 4% operating income increase. A 2% FY2023 sales increase is forecast, with "Impact of foreign exchange rates" specified as a reason.
From Tamron Americas:
TAMRON announces development of second-generation 70-180mm F2.8 zoom with Vibration Compensation and TAMRON Lens Utility™ compatibility
Class-leading compact and lightweight telephoto zoom for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless
August 8, 2023, Commack, New York – Tamron announces the development of the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065), a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens is expected to be available in the Fall 2023.
The 70-180mm F2.8 G2 marks the further evolution of the first-generation model that earned high acclaim in the marketplace and incorporates several enhancements. Leading the list of improvements of the new G2 lens is the incorporation of TAMRON’s proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism. The lens maintains the maneuverability of class-leading compact size and weight* while enabling shooting with greater stability.
*Among full-frame compatible fast-aperture F2.8 telephoto zoom lenses equipped with Vibration Compensation. (As of July 2023 — TAMRON)
The optical design has been revamped from the first-generation 70-180mm F2.8 and achieves uncompromising high image quality across the entire zoom range. TAMRON also shortened the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) at the wide end to 0.3m (11.8in) compared to the first-generation 0.85m (33.5in), enabling users to enjoy unique photographic expressions distinctive to the lens. Additionally, the new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom features TAMRON’s renowned VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism enabling high-speed, high-precision auto-focusing that performs well whether shooting stills or video.
The new 70-180mm F2.8 G2 zoom also supports the dedicated TAMRON Lens Utility™ and TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™ apps that were developed in-house by TAMRON. The software can be used to customize functions based on various shooting styles for still photography and video. The new lens design improves operability and provides scratch resistance. This single lens combines profound maneuverability and practicality that is worthy of the second-generation G2 badge and will deliver shooting experiences that make a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens even more enjoyable.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Even with VC image stabilization, the lens is just 6.2” (156.5mm) long and weighs only 30.2 o.z (855g)
- Revamped optical design delivers truly superb performance at all focal lengths
- VXD provides high-speed and high-precision AF with vastly improved subject tracking
- Equipped with TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism
- Achieves MOD of 11.8” (0.3m) at 70mm and 33.5” (0.85m) at 180mm
- Proprietary software tool TAMRON Lens Utility for lens function customization
- Additional features for greater convenience
- User-friendly features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)
- Compatible with many camera-specific features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF
- Ø67mm filter size, same as most other TAMRON lenses for mirrorless cameras
Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.
Sony Alpha 6700 firmware update version 1.01 is available for download.
Firmware Version VERSION incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
- Fixes an issue where the LCD monitor menus and icons may be displayed in the wrong color
- Improves the operational stability of the camera
Get the Sony Alpha 6700 at B&H.
It's time to check this trip off of your bucket list. I'm looking for a small number of photographers to join me on the Brown Bear Chasing Salmon in Remote Katmai National Park, Alaska Instructional Photo Tour in 2024
The dates are Tuesday, September 3 to Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
This trip promises an incredible experience and outstanding images.
Can I sign you up or answer questions?! Email me to sign up or ask questions!
Just posted: Alpine Astro Baader AstroSolar BDSF 3.8 Digital Solar Filter Review.
Now is a good time to prepare to photograph the April 2024 total solar eclipse.
Please share!
Support this site by ordering the Alpine Astro Baader AstroSolar BDSF 3.8 Digital Solar Filter (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama
Just posted: Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens Review
Outstanding lens.
Please support this site by sharing this review!
Also, support this site by ordering the Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX
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Canon has added second quarter and first half 2023 financial results to the Investor Relations page.
Presentation Material
Results
Supplementary Data
Presentation Material and Speech Summary
Imaging System Relevant Quotes from the Presentation Material
"Maintained high profitability through new mirrorless camera products and strong sales of network cameras"
"2Q: Double-digit sales growth, driven by strong sales of new mirrorless cameras and RF lenses"
"Broaden user base via EOS R50 and EOS R100, first entry-class models of EOS R-series"
Buy your Canon cameras, lens, and accessories at B&H.
From Micron:
Crucial Expands Portable SSD Portfolio, Unveiling Revolutionary New Storage Architecture
Crucial X9 Pro and X10 Pro Portable SSDs Unlock Storage Performance to Dramatically Improve Workflow Processes for Content Creators
BOISE, Idaho, July 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), today announced the Crucial® X9 Pro Portable SSD and Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD, two new performance offerings in the Crucial Pro Series product portfolio, designed for content creators such as photographers, videographers, designers, or any performance-seeking consumer. Both drives utilize Micron TLC NAND and leverage a revolutionary single-ASIC portable storage architecture to enable a breakthrough, ultra-compact, lightweight form factor and allows Micron to ship the most capacity per square millimeter in the industry1. With either the Crucial X9 Pro and X10 Pro, users can safely store, transport and backup important videos, photos, files and more on the go, without cloud or internet access at lightning-fast speeds.
“We recognize that fast, efficient workflow processes are essential to the success of videographers, photographers and other content creators,” said Jonathan Weech, senior director of product marketing for Micron’s Commercial Products Group. “We designed and built our two new portable SSDs, the Crucial X9 Pro and the Crucial X10 Pro, to specifically address these demanding workloads. With more photos and videos being taken than ever before, consumers are looking for ways to save, preserve and protect their digital lives reliably and quickly. These two new Crucial Pro Portable SSDs are a great choice for anyone who needs dependable, fast, high-capacity storage.”
Real speed. Raw power. Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD
The Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD, the fastest external SSD offered to date by Micron, delivers sequential read/write speeds up to 2,100MB/s and 2,000MB/s respectively2 and up to 4TB of space3. Creative professionals can transfer 1TB of data in under nine minutes4, dramatically improving video editing workflow efficiencies. The Crucial X10 Pro can connect directly to a laptop or workstation via the provided USB-C cable5 to blaze through multi-camera timelines and users can even edit, trim and render directly from the drive. Both water and dust resistant (IP55)6, the Crucial X10 Pro works with Windows, Mac, Android, game consoles and more right out of the box7.
Powerful performance. Broad compatibility. Crucial X9 Pro Portable SSD
With space to store thousands of photos, files and videos, the Crucial X9 Pro Portable SSD provides the speed required to organize, curate, edit and retouch photos quickly. Photographers can accelerate their workflow with powerful performance and storage capacity, as the Crucial X9 Pro provides sequential read and write speeds up to 1,050MB/s2 and is available in sizes up to 4TB3. The Crucial X9 Pro is plug-and-play ready with a USB-C connection5 and works with Windows, Mac, Android devices7 and more. Its diminutive size of 65 x 50 millimeters provides palm-sized portability and weighs only 38 grams.
Micron + Adobe: Accelerating the pace of content creation.
Micron has collaborated with Adobe to provide a one-month Creative Cloud All Apps plan with the purchase and complete drive registration for every Crucial X9 Pro or Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD product8. This product bundle will allow a wide variety of users to express their creativity more easily than ever before.
Availability
The Crucial X9 Pro and Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSDs are available now in capacities of 4TB, 2TB and 1TB at B&H.
Notes
1. Based on internal competitive research and analysis across portable SSDs.
2. MB/s speed measured as maximum sequential performance of device as measured by Crucial on a high-performance desktop computer with Crystal Disk Mark (version 8.0.1 for x64). Your performance may vary.
3. Some of the storage capacity is used for formatting and other purposes and is not available for data storage. 1GB equals 1 billion bytes.
4. As measured using the Crucial X10 Pro on a high-performance desktop computer.
5. Best speeds available with included USB Type-C to C cable on USB 3.2 Gen2 supported devices. Use USB Type-A adapter for older devices. USB 3.2 Gen2 2x2 full performance can only be achieved on USB-C host devices.
6. Protection against dust and water projected in jets against the enclosure from any direction. The X10 Pro should not be submerged in water. For more information, visit www.iec.ch/ip-ratings.
7. Compatibility may vary and may be contingent on device formatting and host capabilities. Compatible Android devices must be able to work with USB Mass Storage over OTG. Operating system updates and reformatting may be required.
8. Terms and conditions apply.
As I mentioned recently, the ultra-high-performance of the Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens means still excellent image quality with extenders mounted, including the Canon RF 2x Extender. The 2x addition results in a 200-600mm f/5.6 IS lens, and ideal choice for wildlife photography.
So, this combination and I headed out for some birding.
A great blue heron was standing on a small, mostly-submerged log — for a long time. I was having the oft-repeated stay-or-go argument with myself when the bird started looking intently into the water, clarifying that staying won the argument. The bird plunged its head and entire body into the water and came up with a speared sunfish.
I know, these birds do this every day — it is how they survive. However, what the bird did was incredible.
Duckweed covers the entire surface of the water (except where the plunge just occurred), making underwater visibility from above water, even for a bird, seemingly impossible, but this heron performed a perfect strike at the extent of its reach under these circumstances. Upon shaking the duckweed from its feathers, the heron turned slightly toward the camera for an "I'm so cool" hero pose.
Significant foreground obstructions mean limited openings for shooting in this location, and I couldn't move any further away from this great blue heron. The Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens is my usual choice for the selected location. While that lens has a 1-stop aperture advantage, it lacks the other focal lengths. The RF 100-300 with the 2x in place provides the 600mm angle of view while enabling zooming out to 339mm from this GBH vantage point for a full-body image.
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Get your DJI Air 3 at B&H or Adorama.
From DJI:
Double Your Aerial Imaging Skills with DJI’s New Air 3 Drone
Dual Primary Cameras, Up To 46 Minutes Flight Time, Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing and O4 HD Video Transmission Help to Make Your Subject The Center Of Aerial Photography
July 25, 2023 – DJI, the world’s leader in civilian drones and creative camera technology, today introduces the DJI Air 3, a new powerful addition to the Air Series with dual primary cameras. Featuring a wide-angle camera and a 3x medium tele camera, it empowers more users to get a sense of compression in their shots and delivers a medium focal length to more aerial photography enthusiasts. This advanced all-round drone offers tremendous picture details and effortlessly stunning footage with both cameras delivering 48MP Photos and 4K/60fps HDR Videos. Up to 46 minutes flight time1, omnidirectional obstacle sensing2, the O4 HD Video Transmission System and many other flagship features will help users to master aerial photography further.
“The DJI Air 3 is the first drone of our Air Series which offers professional features like dual primary cameras and omnidirectional obstacle sensing and at the same time retaining its lightweight capabilities with a weight of just 720g for more freedom and flexibility,” said Ferdinand Wolf, Creative Director at DJI. “The drone is the perfect all-rounder for your outdoor adventures and offers you a more diverse camera language.”
Highlight your Subject in the Frame with Dual Primary Cameras
The DJI Air 3 boasts the first dual-primary camera system of the Air Series, which embeds a 1/1.3-inch CMOS wide-angle camera and a 1/1.3-inch CMOS 3x medium tele camera in a compact space. The two cameras have the same sensor size but different focal lengths, which result in more consistent image quality3 and more diverse camera language.
With the wide-angle camera, sweeping landscapes can be captured more fully. It offers 2.4µm pixel size, 24mm format equivalent and a F1.7 aperture. The 3x Medium Tele Camera offers 2.4µm pixel size, 70mm format equivalent and a F2.8 aperture.
The 3x medium tele camera can achieve 3x optical zoom and also create a strong sense of spatial compression, enabling a unique perspective to present the user or anyone else as the subject of aerial photography. With people in the scene, aerial photography now has more diverse possibilities.
Pilots can use the wide FOV of the wide-angle camera to embrace the whole landscape or switch to the 3x medium tele camera, and capture the subject as a bold focal point, with the landscape before and behind the subject seemingly within reach. Both cameras offer 48MP photos not only to deliver true-to-life details, but also to support post-cropping for easy secondary composition.
The DJI Air 3 has two 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensors that support dual native ISO for direct output of 4K/60fps HDR video at high frame rates and up to 4K/100fps max. video specification now even without FOV cropping compared to its predecessor, the DJI Air 2S4. Those videos can record rich color details and natural lighting transitions to restore the stunning landscape before your eyes. Both cameras support 10-bit D-Log M and 10-bit HLG color modes. 10-bit D-Log M mode can retain more highlight and shadow details for more flexible post-production.
The DJI Air 3 is the first drone of the Air Series supporting 2.7K vertical video shooting (9:16), which can be shared immediately on social media.
Extended Flight Time, Easy Power Accumulation
Compared with its predecessor in the Air Series, the DJI Air 3 has 48% more max flight time5 of up to 46 minutes. Thus, pilots can seek the best position and adjust the composition with more peace of mind during a single flight.
The new battery charging hub supports a power accumulation function. Users can press and hold the function button to transfer the remaining power from multiple batteries to the battery with the highest remaining power[6]. This feature gives pilots the freedom and flexibility to make the most out of their flight during for example hiking in the mountains or biking in the forest, where charging possibilities are limited.
Confident Takeoff and Safe Landing with Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing and O4 Video Transmission
The DJI Air 3 is the first drone in the Air Series to include omnidirectional obstacle sensing. This feature enables comprehensive environmental awareness, allowing the drone to detect obstacles in all directions. In the front and at the back the drone is equipped with a pair of fisheye lenses to achieve forward, backward, left, right and upward sensing, while the bottom is equipped with binocular lenses and a 3D TOF, achieving powerful omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
When an obstacle is detected, the DJI Air 3 can also use APAS 5.0 to actively avoid and smoothly bypass obstacles, which ensures uninterrupted shooting for a greatly enhanced flight experience7. Even as an aerial photography beginner, users can fly with confidence and unlock more creative ideas. The ActiveTrack function further frees the pilots’ hands and works with Advanced RTH8 to achieve fully automatic flight as well as worry-free return- to-home.
The next generation O4 video transmission system endows the DJI Air 3 with outstanding performance. It not only offers a transmission distance of up to 20 km9, but also further improves transmission stability to avoid stuttered live view for safer flight. It supports up to 1080p/60fps live feeds, and a higher frame rate ensures a smoother viewing experience.
Intelligent Features, Infinite Inspiration
FocusTrack for both cameras: Consisting of Spotlight 2.0, ActiveTrack 5.0 and Point of Interest 3.0. FocusTrack keeps the subject in the center of the frame. When using the 3x medium tele camera, a unique sense of spatial compression will be generated to highlight the pilot or any other person as the subject in terrific status.
QuickShots: Empowers the DJI Air 3 to perform creative camera movements like Rocket, Dronie, Circle, Helix, Boomerang, and Asteroid10.
2.7K Vertical Shooting: The DJI Air 3 supports dual-camera 2.7K vertical video shooting. The wide-angle camera can include rich image information, while the 3x medium tele camera can portrait the pilot or others as the subject, facilitating more eye-catching vertical aerial photography. The 2.7K vertical shot output can be shared immediately on social media without post-cropping.
MasterShots: Allows the DJI Air 3 to automatically perform diverse camera movements, shoots multiple clips, edits the clips, and adds music to generate fast and effortless cinematic footage.
Night Mode: Thanks to the noise reduction algorithm, the DJI Air 3 can capture up to 4K/30fps clean footage in low-light environments.
Hyperlapse: Select from four sub-modes of Free, Circle, Course Lock, and Waypoint to shoot up to 4K horizontal or 2.7K vertical timelapse footage.
Slow Motion: Select 4K/100fps or 1080p/100fps to directly record a 4x slow-motion video.
SmartPhoto 3.0: In single shot mode, the DJI Air 3 uses SmartPhoto 3.0 by default, which can automatically select among HDR, hyperlight, and scene recognition according to the scenario for better imaging results. In HDR DNG format11, the camera can record a larger dynamic range with built-in contrast enhancement. The image file can achieve JPG-level quality in post-editing software, reducing the difficulty of post-production.
QuickTransfer: Quickly download photos and videos from the aircraft to your smartphone through a wireless connection, saving time and effort.
LightCut: Connect the DJI Air 3 wirelessly to the LightCut app on the phone for intelligent recognition of highlight moments and one-tap editing. There is no need to download the footage during the process, saving storage on the phone.
One-Tap Edit: Intelligently identifies the composition and flight path, selects clips with delicate composition and stable camera movements, automatically matches the best template and sound effects, and then generates a cinematic video effortlessly.
Tilt-Shift Effects: Enjoy incredible effects that make the shot look miniature and toy-like with just one tap. Apply this feature to footage shot with the 3x medium tele camera for even better results.
Waypoint Flight: This feature is available on the Air Series for the first time. The user can plan flight routes and shooting actions for the DJI Air 3 in advance to achieve difficult camera movements like one-takes. Pilots can also save a flight route to repeat the same mission precisely later, making it easy to create long-duration timelapse videos that capture transitions such as day to night or season to season.
Outstanding Accessories for further Flight Performance12
DJI Air 3 ND Filters Set: This set provides ND8/16/32/64 filters, allowing the user to create smoother footage at slower shutter speeds.
DJI 100W USB-C Power Adapter: The power adapter can fast charge the battery and remote controller simultaneously, or mobile devices through the USB-C ports.
DJI 65W Car Charger: The lightweight and portable car charger uses a universal port. It can charge a battery, remote controller, smartphone, laptop, and other devices.
DJI Care Refresh
DJI Care Refresh, the comprehensive protection plan for DJI products, is now available for DJI Air 3. The replacement service covers accidental damage, including flyaway, collisions and water damage. For a small additional charge, you can have your damaged product replaced if an accident occurs. DJI Care Refresh (1-Year Plan) includes up to two replacements in one year. DJI Care Refresh (2-Year Plan) includes up to four replacements in two years. Other services of DJI Care Refresh include official Warranty and free shipping. For a full list of details, please visit: https://www.dji.com/support/service/djicare-refresh
Price and Availability
The DJI Air 3 is available to order from authorized retail partners, with shipping starting today, in the following configurations:
DJI Air 3 (DJI RC-N2) for the retail price of $1,099
DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo (DJI RC-N2) for the retail price of $1,349
DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo (DJI RC 2) for the retail price of $1,549
Get your DJI Air 3 at B&H or Adorama.
Footnotes: 1. Measured by DJI Air 3 flying at a constant speed of 28.8 kph in a windless environment at sea level, with APAS off, AirSense off, camera parameters set to 1080p/24fps, video mode off, and from 100% battery level until 0%. Data is for reference only. Pay attention to reminders in the app during your flight.
2. DO NOT use the aircraft in severe weather conditions, including heavy wind exceeding 12 m/s, snow, rain, fog, hail, or lightning. DO NOT fly the aircraft 6000 m (19685 ft.) or higher above sea level. DO NOT fly the aircraft in environments where the temperature is below -10° C (14° F) or above 40° C (104° F). DO NOT take off from moving objects such as cars or boats. DO NOT fly close to reflective surfaces such as water or snow. Otherwise, the vision system may not work correctly. When the GNSS signal is weak, fly the aircraft in environments with good lighting and visibility. Low ambient light may cause the vision system to function abnormally. DO NOT fly near areas with magnetic or radio interference. Familiar magnetic or radio interference sources include Wi-Fi hotspots, routers, Bluetooth devices, high-voltage lines, large-scale power transmission stations, radar stations, mobile base stations, and broadcasting towers. Avoid sand entering the aircraft when taking off in desert or beach areas. Fly the aircraft in open areas away from crowds. Buildings, mountains, and trees may block the GNSS signal and affect the onboard compass.
3. The wide-angle camera and 3x medium tele camera have different apertures.
4. Recording frame rates. The corresponding video plays as a slow-motion video.
5. Compared with DJI Air 2S.
6. DO NOT connect the charger, connect external devices, or insert/remove any batteries during power accumulation.
7. The obstacle avoidance action should be set to Bypass in the app.
8. Only available when ambient light meets the working conditions of the vision systems. Always pay attention to the surroundings and app warnings. For specific usage conditions, please refer to the product user manual.
9. 20km@FCC, 10km@SRRC/CE/MIC — Measured in an outdoor, open environment, without interference, and with FCC compliance. The above data shows the farthest communication range for one-way, non-return flights. Pay attention to reminders in the app during your flight.
10. The 3x medium tele camera does not support Asteroid.
11. DJI Air 3 saves photos in HDR DNG format when the aircraft is stationary and the exposure parameters are automatically set in Auto or Pro mode.
12. Sold separately.
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