(Page 9)

A worthy a1 II comparison is against the Sony Alpha 9 III. I'll let you figure out which camera is which in the comparison image.

Check out the a1 II vs. a9 III specification comparison and the visual comparison of these cameras. What are the differences between the Sony Alpha 1 II and the s9 III? Here are the a1 II advantages over the a9 III:

• 50.1 MP vs. 24.6
• 1/32,000 second continuous shooting shutter speed vs. 1/16,000
• ISO 100–32000 vs. 250–25600, expandable to ISO 50 to ISO 102400 vs. 125–51200
• Improved IBIS — 8.5 stops vs. 8.0 (center)
• Slightly greater dynamic range

Here are the a9 III advantages over the a1 II:

• Global shutter, with no rolling shutter or banding in stills or movies, vs. 3.8 ms (still fast)
• 1/80000 second shutter speed vs. 1/32000
• 120 fps continuous shooting vs. 30 fps, Continuous Shooting Speed Boost feature
• Flash sync to 1/80000 vs. 1/400
• AF working range of EV -5 – 20 vs. EV -4 – 20
• Exposure metering range of EV -5 – 17 vs. EV -3 – 20
• Slightly less expensive

Most photographers will find the a1 II the best option, but the a9 III is the better choice for a niche market, primarily those who value extreme speed over resolution.

Learn more: Sony Alpha 1 II

Support this site by ordering the Sony Alpha 1 II (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

Venus Optics just introduced a pair of interesting and useful lenses. See the new Laowa 55mm & 100mm Tilt-shift 1x Macro Lenses, available in RF, FE, Z, and L mounts, at B&H.

Photographers contemplating this question will find the Canon EOS R5 Mark II's price especially attractive. The difference is enough to fund a pro-grade lens.

Check out the a1 II vs. R5 II specification comparison and the visual comparison of these cameras. What are the differences between the Sony Alpha 1 II and the R5 Mark II? Here are the a1 II advantages:

• 50 megapixels vs. 45 megapixels (50 is my favorite, but 45 is close)
• 3.8 ms imaging sensor readout speed vs. 6.3 (faster readout reduces electronic shutter issues)
• 0.64" (16mm) 9.44 million dot 0.90x EVF vs. 0.50" (12.7mm) 5.76 million dot 0.76x
• 240 fps EVF vs. 120
• 4-axis articulated LCD
• Up to 1 second Pre-Capture vs. 0.5 seconds
• +/- 5 stops exposure compensation vs. 3
• Pixel Shift Multi Shooting (provides dramatically higher resolution after post-processing, but everything in the frame must be still)
• 1/400 max flash sync vs. 1/250
• Movie Auto Framing feature
• Ethernet port vs. available with accessory grip
• 420 shots CIPA viewfinder battery life vs. 340
• Slightly smaller

Here are the R5 II advantages:

• Dramatically lower price
• 30 fps with lossless RAW vs. lossy
• Eye Control AF
• AF to EV -7.5 to 21 vs. -4 to 20 (ratings at f/1.2 vs. f/2, but still an advantage)
• 5,850 manually-selectable AF points vs. 759
• 8K 60p 12-bit internal RAW vs. 8K 30p 10-bit
• 6 GHz WiFi vs. 5
• Has a top LCD
• 630 shots CIPA LCD battery life vs. 520
• Cooling fan grip available
• Slightly lighter

The Sony camera has dual CFexpress Type A and SD combo slots, while the Canon camera has dedicated CFexpress Type B and SD slots.

Comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics. These cameras are quite different in those regards, and advantages will often be determined by personal preference. Notably, I find the Canon grip more comfortable when using mid- and large-sized lenses.

Learn more: Sony Alpha 1 II

Support this site by ordering the Sony Alpha 1 II (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

The Alpha 1 II is, without a doubt, the best for most uses Sony camera, and lower price is practically the only reason to choose otherwise. Before the II, the a1 version I was my ultimate choice, and leads to the question I'm asking. Should I get the Sony a1 II or keep the Sony a1?

Check out the a1 II vs. a1 specification comparison and the visual comparison of these cameras. What are the differences between the Sony Alpha 1 II and the Alpha 1?

Let's get the short list out of the way first. I already gave you the answer, but I'll put a bullet beside it. Here are the Sony a1 advantages over the a1 II:

• Lower price

When the a1 II was announced, the a1 was immediately discounted by $1,000.00. That discount is not a factor for those considering an upgrade, except that the lower new camera cost may put downward pressure on the used camera sale price, directly impacting the upgrade cost. The items on the next list must be worth the additional expense for the II purchase to be logical.

Here are the a1 II's advantages:

• 0.03 to 1 second Pre-Capture of up to one second and Continuous Shooting Speed Boost
• 8.5-stop IBIS vs. 5.5
• Improved grip ergonomics
• New C5 button
• 4-axis articulated LCD
• 3.2" LCD with 2.1 million dots vs. 1.44 million dots
• AF-dedicated AI processor
• Insect, vehicle (planes, trains, and automobiles), and Auto subject detection modes
• Improved eye detection for animals and humans (by 30%) and birds (50% improvement).
• Upgraded human pose estimation
• XS and XL Spot AF area options
• 30 ms electronic Shutter lag vs. 42
• Video improvements, including AF performance, auto framing, movie self-timer, breathing compensation, import and embed of up to 16 custom LUTs
• 2.5Gbps Ethernet vs. 1Gbps, and Wake on LAN vs. no
• Stacked exposure mode dial
• FDA-EP21 enhanced eyecup additionally included

Serious photographers chasing wildlife and other action subjects will find the first bullet worth the upgrade cost. Pre-Capture is game-changing.

Other individual improvements, such as AF and IBIS performance, will also be worth the upgrade cost to many photographers, and the cumulative enhancements show the II to be a solid upgrade.

Still, the price difference is a factor, and the a1 is still the outstanding performer it always was.

Those of us considering the a1 to a1 II upgrade must consider that the value of our current cameras will continue to decline, and a fresh camera with a full warranty has value.

Learn more: Sony Alpha 1 II

Support this site by ordering the Sony Alpha 1 II (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

Image quality test results are now available on the Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page.

You are going to like these results.

Compared to the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens

Compared to the Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens (at f/1.4)

Compared to the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens

Compared to the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Lens

Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality test results are now available on the Canon RF 24mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page.

You are going to like these results.

Compared to the Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Lens

Compared to the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens

Compared to the Canon RF 24mm F1.8 Macro IS STM Lens

Compared to the Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM Lens

Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 24mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF 24mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

From Rode:

INTRODUCING WIRELESS GO (GEN 3)

The third generation of the world's most popular wireless microphone has landed. With 32-bit float on-board recording, intelligent GainAssist technology and a host of next-gen features, the Wireless GO is the perfect companion for creators looking to elevate their content with pristine wireless audio.

FLAWLESS SOUND WITH EVERY TAKE

Now with 32-bit float, GainAssist, improved built-in mics and a range of flexible gain controls, the Wireless GO captures flawless sound with every take.

YOUR SOUND, YOUR STYLE, YOUR STORY

For the first time in its iconic history, the Wireless GO is available in an expansive suite of limited-edition colours, with 14 striking options to choose from.

EVERY SETUP, EVERY SETTING

With both USB-C and 3.5mm outputs, the Wireless GO is just at home with a camera as it is a smartphone or laptop – the wireless mic that adapts to you.

MORE FEATURES, MORE FLEXIBILITY

The Wireless GO now boasts a range of pro features that make it even more flexible in the field, like locking connectors, headphone monitoring and plug-in-power detect to extend battery.

Get the Rode Wireless GO III at B&H.

From Canon USA:

Canon Launches New Cropping Guide for Select EOS Cameras, Empowering Customers to Capture Beautifully Optimized Photos

MELVILLE, NY, December 9, 2024 – Canon Inc., the parent company of Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today a new Cropping Guide feature that will be available via a firmware update for the Canon EOS R50, EOS R10 and EOS R7 camera models that allows users to more easily frame their subjects through the use of four tailored on-screen guides. The new feature will be available December 9th from Canon USA for the price of $120 USD. For customers who have previously purchased one of the camera models compatible with the feature, they can send their device to a Canon Service Center and it will be returned with the Cropping Guide feature installed. For those new customers interested in the above mentioned models, the option to purchase them pre-loaded with the feature (for an additional cost) will be available via Canon Direct and other dealers starting December 9th.

The new Cropping Guide feature provides on-screen guidelines that help shooters position subjects with precision, helping to ensure consistent and professional results while saving time on editing. It allows for Canon users to position the frame at the time of capture so that post-production and editing can be kept at a minimum. Lastly, the Cropping Guides can be applied to horizontal or vertical framing scenarios, allowing for a wide range of shooting situations.

Canon will showcase its new offering to visitors to the School Photographers Association of California (SPAC) trade show from January 21-25 in Las Vegas, NV at the South Point Hotel and Casino at Booth #715. This new feature is specifically designed for school photography, sports events, or any scenario in which subjects need to maintain a consistent position.

Availability

Cropping Guide will be available December 9th. For additional information about the software, a list of compatible cameras and how to access the Cropping Guide, please visit here.

Orders

Get your Canon EOS camera with cropping guide at at B&H.

As Canon promised with the firmware version 1.0.1 release, Canon EOS R5 Mark II firmware update version 1.0.2 is available for download at Canon USA or Canon Japan.

Firmware Version 1.0.2 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Incorporates support for frame rates of 23.98fps/24.00fps when using the LP-E6NH and LP-E6N battery.
2. The Wi-Fi connection status is now identifiable by the color of the [FTP Transfer Icon].
3. Adds [Protect Images] and [Rating] during FTP Transfer.
4. Adds the ability to change [Custom Shooting Mode] while writing images to the media (BUSY).
5. Fixes an issue in which the camera may become inoperable if a lens that does not communicate with the camera is attached when repeatedly shooting while using HDMI output.
6. Fixes an issue in which the camera may become inoperable if an image is cropped while other images are being transferred to an FTP server.
7. Fixes an issue in which Err70 may occur when using an application software such as Camera Connect, and the load on the smartphone increases.
8. Fixes an issue in which image stabilization may become unstable in movie mode when panning diagonally while using some stabilization rigs (such as monopod or handheld rigs).
9. Fixes an issue in which all images may not be copied when copying multiple selected images in the camera.
10. Fixes an issue in which another manufacturer devices (such as strobe or remote camera trigger) may work during pre-continuous shooting.
11. Fixes an issue that may, immediately after shooting, cause the screen to take a long time to turn off when using a button that has been assigned the "Screen off" function.
12. Fixes an issue in which Look File settings may apply to multiple custom picture files.
13. Fixes an issue in which the AF frame movement may not be smooth when several shooting information items are displayed and the multi-controller is operated.
14. Implements a fix to include custom pictures when saving camera settings.
15. Improves operation stability during network communication.

Get the Canon EOS R5 Mark II at B&H.

Canon EOS R1 firmware update version 1.0.1 is available for download at Canon USA or Canon Japan.

Firmware Version 1.0.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. The Wi-Fi connection status is now identifiable by the color of the [FTP Transfer Icon].
2. Adds [Protect Images] and [Rating] during FTP Transfer.
3. Adds the ability to change [Custom Shooting Mode] while writing images to the media (BUSY).
4. Fixes an issue in which the camera may become inoperable if a lens that does not communicate with the camera is attached when repeatedly shooting while using HDMI output.
5. Fixes an issue in which the camera may become inoperable if an image is cropped while other images are being transferred to an FTP server.
6. Fixes an issue in which Err70 may occur when using an application software such as Camera Connect, and the load on the smartphone increases.
7. Fixes an issue in which image stabilization may become unstable in movie mode when panning diagonally while using some stabilization rigs (such as monopod or handheld rigs).
8. Fixes an issue in which all images may not be copied when copying multiple selected images in the camera.
9. Fixes an issue in which another manufacturer devices (such as strobe or remote camera trigger) may work during pre-continuous shooting.
10. Fixes an issue that may, immediately after shooting, cause the screen to take a long time to turn off when using a button that has been assigned the "Screen off" function.
11. Fixes an issue in which Look File settings may apply to multiple custom picture files.
12. Fixes an issue in which the AF frame movement may not be smooth when several shooting information items are displayed and the multi-controller is operated.
13. Implements a fix to include custom pictures when saving camera settings.
14. Improves operation stability during network communication.

Get the Canon EOS R1 at B&H.

Just posted: Canon EOS R5 Mark II.

As with the R1 review, most of the R5 II content has been in place for weeks, but with over 20,000 images captured with this camera, I'll call the review done.

This is my favorite camera.

Support this site by ordering the Canon EOS R5 Mark II from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon EOS R5 Mark II from Lensrentals.

Just posted: Canon EOS R1 Review.

Most of the review contents have long been available, but after about 30,000 frames, I'll call it done.

Please share!

Support this site by ordering the Canon EOS R1 from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon EOS R1 from Lensrentals.

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R7 are now available for Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens.

This is a great ultra-wide zoom lens option for APS-C, now including the RF mount options.

Please share.

The Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens can now be ordered in RF mount (search for the RF version) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens from Lensrentals.

The Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z Lens in white is in stock at B&H.

Incredible lens: Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z Lens Review.

The Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens (review) can now be ordered in RF mount (search for the RF version) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

From Tamron Americas:

TAMRON Announces the Launch of Its First CANON RF mount Lens

The compact, lightweight, fast-aperture F2.8 ultra wide-angle zoom

Commack, NY, November 26, 2024 – Tamron announces the launch of TAMRON’s first CANON RF mount lens, 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD (Model B060), an ultra wide-angle zoom lens for APS-C mirrorless cameras at $659 USD / $899 CAD on December 12, 2024.

The 11-20mm F2.8 is a fast-aperture zoom lens covering a focal length range from ultra wide-angle 11mm to 20mm , with a maximum aperture of F2.8 across its full range of focal lengths. With a surprisingly compact and lightweight design for a fast ultra wide-angle zoom lens, the lens feels well balanced when attached to a compact APS-C mirrorless camera body, making it ideal for daily use.

Despite its small, lightweight design, the lens delivers high-level imaging power with its uncompromising optical design. Wide macro shooting is possible at 11mm with an MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 0.15m (5.9in) and maximum magnification ratio of 1:4, and its stunning close-range shooting performance enables creative use of perspective at the wide end.

The lens also incorporates an AF drive system with an RXD (Rapid-eXtra-silent stepping Drive) stepping motor unit that is remarkably quiet. The lens accurately captures not only still images but also video. It is highly practical, with Moisture-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating, and other features designed for outdoor shooting, letting users easily enjoy the high image quality of this ultra wide-angle fast -aperture F2.8 lens under a range of conditions.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

1. Fast-aperture ultra wide-angle zoom lens

The 11-20mm F2.8 (full-frame equivalent of 17.6-32mm) allows for the capture of landscapes and architecture with the dynamic perspective unique to ultra wide-angle lenses. It is also well-suited for indoor group portraits and real estate photography by leveraging its wide-angle focal lengths. At the telephoto end, it supports everyday snapshots with its natural field of view close to one’s view, all while delivering soft and beautiful bokeh with its F2.8 aperture.

2. Compact and lightweight

Designed with APS-C mirrorless cameras in mind, the 11-20mm F2.8 provides a compact and lightweight form, measuring just 3.3” (84.2mm) in length and weighing 12 oz. (340g), allowing you to shoot without worrying about weight. When used with a compatible APS-C mirrorless camera body, you’ll enjoy handheld shooting of still images and find it comfortable to shoot video even when using a compact tripod or gimbal.

3. AF/MF Switch and TAMRON Lens Utility Compatibility

The CANON RF mount includes an AF/MF switch. Additionally, the lens features a Connector Port for users to easily update the lens to the latest firmware via TAMRON Lens Utility™ software.

4. Outstanding optical performance

The optical construction uses 12 elements in 10 groups including two GM (Glass Molded Aspherical) lens elements to maintain high resolution across the entire image area. It also incorporates one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and two LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements to effectively suppress aberrations, ensuring clear image quality. Additionally, the BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) Coating minimizes ghosting and flare, faithfully rendering details even in backlit conditions.

5. MOD of 5.9” (0.15m) and maximum magnification ratio of 1:4

With an MOD of 5.9” (0.15m) at 11mm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4, the 11-20mm F2.8 surpasses traditional ultra wide-angle zoom lenses in its close-up capabilities. This allows for wide-angle macro photography and creative shallow depth of field effects, enhancing subject prominence against blurred backgrounds.

6. High performance autofocus system for both still and video use

Equipped with TAMRON’s proprietary RXD motor unit, the autofocus system delivers high-speed and high-precision focusing. It accurately captures moving subjects and is suitable for both still photography and video. Its quiet RXD stepping motor is ideal for capturing moments where noise may be a concern, or silence is required.

7. High convenience and protective features

• 67mm filter size, same as most other TAMRON lenses for mirrorless cameras
• Enhanced overall lens design for user-friendly operation
• Moisture-Resistant Construction
• Fluorine Coating

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: B060 Focal Length: 11-20mm (17.6-32mm full-frame equivalent field-of-view) Maximum Aperture: F2.8 Angle of View (diagonal): 101° 44’-68° 7’ (for APS-C mirrorless format) Optical Construction: 12 elements in 10 groups Minimum Object Distance: 5.9” / 0.15m / 5.9 (WIDE), 9.4” / 0.24m (TELE) Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:4 (WIDE) / 1.76 (TELE) Filter Size: Ø67mm Maximum Diameter: Ø73mm Length*: 3.3” (84.2mm) Weight: 12 oz. (340g) Aperture Blades**: 7 (circular diaphragm) Minimum Aperture: F16 Standard Accessories: Flower-shaped hood, Front and Rear caps Mount***: Canon RF mount

* Length is the distance from the front end of the lens to the lens mount face.

** The circular diaphragm stays almost perfectly circular up to two stops down from maximum aperture.

Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.

*** The lens for Sony E-mount previously launched on June 24, 2021; the lens for FUJIFILM X mount previously launched on May 30, 2023.

This product is developed, manufactured, and sold under license from Canon Inc.

Full review: Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens

From Tamron Americas:

Tamron Lens Firmware Update Enhances AF Performance During Zooming and Supports Continuous Shooting with Sony a9 III

For 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065)

Commack, NY, November 25, 2024 – TAMRON announces a new firmware update scheduled for release on November 25, 2024, at 11PM ET for the TAMRON 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065) for Sony E-mount.

With this new firmware update, AF performance during zooming is improved when shooting videos and still images in AF-C mode. Additionally, with the Sony a9 III, when the focus mode is set to AF-S, DMF, or MF, the lens will support continuous shooting at up to approximately 120 frames per second.

Users can update to the latest firmware by visiting the TAMRON Lens Utility Download Page on TAMRON’s global website.

Full review: Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens.

Just posted: Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z Lens Review.

Extremely impressive lens.

Please share!

Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

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

From Canon USA:

Canon and Amazon Win Default Judgment Against Counterfeiters of Camera Accessories

MELVILLE, N.Y., November 21, 2024 – Canon U.S.A., Inc. and its parent company, Canon Inc., Amazon.com, Inc. and Amazon.com Services LLC, are pleased to announce that the companies have obtained a default judgment from the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington in a lawsuit filed in May 2023 against sellers engaged in the illegal sale of counterfeit “Canon” batteries and chargers.

The legal action, filed on May 10, 2023, against 29 selling accounts which sold camera batteries and chargers in the Amazon store, resulted from Canon’s and Amazon’s joint investigation into the defendants’ distribution of counterfeit Canon camera batteries and chargers on Amazon. As a result of the lawsuit, the Court issued a permanent injunction prohibiting defendants from making, selling, and offering for sale in the U.S., and importing into the U.S., counterfeit Canon camera batteries and chargers and issued a monetary award against the sellers.

Canon aggressively pursues counterfeiters in the United States and around the world to protect its customers from potentially unsafe products which unlawfully use the Canon name, as well as to protect the value, trusted reputation, and loyalty that the Canon brand has acquired over decades in producing high-quality, safe, and reliable products.

Sales of counterfeit goods on e-commerce are increasing in proportion to the growth of the e-commerce market, and Canon and Amazon are collaborating in fighting against counterfeiters to protect our customers. This joint lawsuit was filed as a part of our ongoing collaboration.

“Our anti-counterfeiting strategy which, in part, involves partnering with Amazon to sue counterfeiters who attempt to sell counterfeit goods on Amazon’s marketplace is meant to demonstrate to all American consumers that the trust and confidence they have given to Canon when buying our high quality and reliable products is precious to us. We will not tolerate the fraud perpetrated on consumers and our brand by counterfeiters,” said Seymour Liebman, Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer & General Counsel.

For more information about Canon’s anti-counterfeiting measures, please visit:

https://global.canon/en/intellectual-property/sword-shield/index.html#anti-counterfeit

https://www.usa.canon.com/support/gray-market/about-counterfeits

For more information about Amazon’s efforts to protect brands and customers, please visit:

https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/policy-news-views/amazon-brand-protection-report-2023-counterfeit-products

Buy Canon at B&H.