Canon and Sony News, Deals, What's New

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The Canon EOS R1 is in stock at Amazon via Canon-authorized Focus Camera. Returnable through Jan 31, 2025.

Highlighting some just-arriving gear in the B&H Used Department:

The Alpha 1 II camera shares the Alpha 1's list price. No one would buy the old model for the same price as the new model, so a promotion was necessary. Now, save $1,000.00 on the Sony Alpha 1 at B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries)

Sony a1 II and FE 28-70mm F2 GM preorders are now live.

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

Order the Sony FE 28-70mm F2 GM Lens at B&H | Sony | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:

• Syrp Genie II Motorized Pan/Tilt Head – only $394.88 after $1,600.00 instant savings
• PORTKEYS LH7H 7" High-Bright Touchscreen Monitor (Black) – only $179.00 after $70.00 instant savings
• More!

See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.

Definitely check this out: the Black Friday Sale is now live at Topaz Labs!

Through Nov 30th, the Amazon Prime Card Bonus provides 10% back on the purchase of 38 Canon mirrorless cameras, lenses, and other products.

This percent back is on top of any Canon instant savings available.

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B&H has an open box Canon EOS R1 in stock (reg. price).

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Sony FE 28-70mm F2 GM Lens preorders start at 9:30am ET, Wed Nov 20. Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 28-70mm F2 GM Lens at B&H | Sony | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

From Sony Electronics:

Sony Electronics Announces Its First Constant F2 Aperture Zoom Lens: The Full-Frame 28-70mm F2 G Master™

The Unique Combination of a Versatile Focal Range, Large F2 Aperture, and Compact Form Factor

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 19, 2024 - Sony Electronics Inc. introduces the 28-70mm F2 G Master, the first¹ Sony zoom lens with a constant F2 aperture and 77th lens in the Sony E-Mount lineup. This full-frame lens offers a versatile focal range from 28mm to 70mm while delivering prime-like² bokeh with its constant F2 aperture. Despite its wide aperture and zoom range, the 28-70mm F2 G Master remains compact, lightweight, and well-balanced, making it ideal for both photography and video applications. This combination of zoom range, large aperture, and compact design makes this an innovative and versatile lens for portrait, sports, wedding, event, and video professionals.

“Our goal with the 28-70mm F2 G Master was to create a high-performing zoom lens that could be a strong single lens alternative to multiple primes,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We prioritized a lightweight design during the engineering process as we knew that was a critical factor for real-life, practical use. And in a manner that only Sony can do, we were able to deliver a small, standard F2 zoom lens that does not sacrifice image quality. We’re proud to add this to our G Master series and believe it is one of the most innovative lenses ever offered to professionals.”

Sharp Imagery and Beautiful Bokeh

The 28-70mm F2 G Master produces extremely sharp corner-to-corner results throughout the entire zoom range, even while shooting wide open at F2. The high-resolution output is made possible by the three XA (extreme aspherical) elements and three aspherical elements built within the lens that minimize aberrations. The lens also features a floating focusing system that helps maintain internal stability. This focusing mechanism enables an impressive minimum focusing distance of up to 14.8 inches (0.38m) throughout the entire zoom range.

Staying true to the G Master lens lineage, the lens’ aperture up to F2 produces extraordinary bokeh, ideal for creating images that showcase a shallow depth of field. The 28-70mm F2 amplifies the G Master bokeh standards through a newly designed 11-blade circular aperture unit. Chromatic aberrations, which cause color fringing within photos, are effectively minimized with three Super ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and one ED element built within the lens. Additionally, Sony’s Nano AR Coating II reduces flare and internal reflections, ensuring clear images, even when strong light sources are present in the frame.

Compact, Lightweight Design Without Compromising Quality

The 28-70mm F2 G Master is one of the most advanced mirrorless camera lenses manufactured with a total 20 different lens elements arranged within 14 internal groups. Despite the advanced optical design, the lens remains compact at 3.6 x 5.5 inches (92.9 x 139.8mm) and lightweight at approximately 32.3 ounces (918g). The combination of imaging performance and a compact form factor offers an innovative solution that meets the demands of industry professionals.

Precise Autofocus Tracking with Instant Response

Reliable and responsive autofocus is delivered through the lens’ four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors powered by advanced control algorithms. This smooth performance system provides accurate and quick focus tracking, often essential in many professional use cases like weddings and sports. This lens is fully compatible with Sony’s Alpha 9 III‘s high-speed continuous shooting capabilities of up to 120 frames per second³ with AF/AE (autofocus/autoexposure) tracking, even while zooming.

Designed for High-Performance Video Shooting

Along with its F2 aperture, the zoom range of the 28-70mm G Master provides a versatile video option that can cover standard field-of-view shots and tighter compositions up to 70mm. This lens minimizes focus breathing through its build and compatibility with the Breathing Compensation feature on various Alpha bodies⁴. Its high autofocus performance ensures reliable focus even when recording in high frame rates up to 4K 120p / FHD 240p⁵. Additionally, the XD linear motors and newly developed aperture unit operates silently, preventing any lens noise from being captured during filming.

The lens is ideal for gimbal use with a minimal zoom extension of approximately .68 inches. The compact form factor and short external zoom helps maintain gimbal balance, even at varying focal lengths.

Operability and Reliability for Versatile Control

Key control features include Linear Response MF for intuitive manual focusing, adjustable zoom ring torque, and an aperture ring with a click ON/OFF switch. The lens also offers two customizable focus hold buttons, an iris lock switch, and an AF/MF switch. The 28-70mm F2 G Master has an 86mm filter diameter and a convenient window on the lens hood for variable filter adjustments.

For durability, all buttons and switches are sealed with silicone gaskets, and critical areas are designed to resist dust and moisture⁶. This ensures reliability, even while using in challenging outdoor environments. Additionally, a fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants for easy cleaning.

Pricing and Availability

The 28-70mm F2 G Master will be available in December 2024 for approximately $2,899.99 USD and $3,999.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.

¹ As of the November 2024 announcement, Sony survey

² Sony survey

³ Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous shooting speed may be lower in some conditions. Continuous shooting speed may vary depending on the lens used in the AF-C focus mode. Refer to Sony’s lens compatibility support page for details.

⁴ Angle of view and image quality may change slightly when this function is [ON]. Effective compensation may not be achieved in all situations. See camera compatibility info at: https://www.sony.net/dics/breathing/

⁵ Depending on the camera and settings used.

⁶ Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof

Sony a1 II preorders start at 9:30am ET, Wed Nov 20. Support this site by ordering the Sony Alpha 1 II (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

From Sony Electronics:

Sony Electronics Announces Second-Generation Flagship Alpha 1 II

A Combination of High Resolution, Speed, and AI Recognition Designed for Professionals

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 19, 2024 – Today Sony Electronics Inc. introduces the Alpha 1 II, its new flagship full-frame camera. This mirrorless camera brings together some of the most requested and beloved features of Sony's high-end camera lineup into one body, designed to be the most reliable and strongest choice for any professional application. The Alpha 1 II combines high resolution, speed, and cutting-edge AI-driven technology to meet the output and workflow needs of professional photographers and videographers. Designed for professionals at the top of their game, the Alpha 1 II is an ideal hybrid tool for photojournalism, wildlife, sports, portraiture, weddings, and commercial work.

Key features of the Alpha 1 II include:

• High-resolution full-frame Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor with an approximate effective 50.1 MP (megapixels)
• Up to 30 fps (frames-per-second) blackout-free continuous shooting with AF/AE (autofocus/autoexposure) tracking¹
• AI processing unit bringing advanced AI-based subject recognition performance and a new “Auto” recognition mode that automatically detects subjects
• High-speed anti-distortion shutter reduces rolling shutter effect for clear undistorted images
• Pre-Capture of up to one second² and Continuous Shooting Speed Boost
• Improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops (center) and 7.0 stops (periphery)³ for still images and a new Dynamic active Mode for videos⁴
• Updated processing algorithms for improved image noise reduction at mid-to-high ISO sensitivities
• Up to 8K 30p / 4K 120p and 10-bit 4:2:2 video recording with Breathing Compensation, Auto Framing, and import User LUTs
• Updated ergonomics and a lightweight design of approximately 743 grams (1 lb, 7.3 oz)⁵

“The original Alpha 1 was a groundbreaking release in 2021, and since then Sony has continued to raise the bar, year over year. When developing the successor to our esteemed flagship model, we made it our mission to incorporate feedback from the industry and the community of Alpha 1, Alpha 7R V and Alpha 9 III users. The result is a powerhouse of a camera - our highest-performing, most balanced, utilitarian tool on the market,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The Alpha 1 II stays true to the Alpha 1’s foundational core of high resolution and speed but is amplified with a dedicated AI processing unit and enhanced ergonomics. It is sure to be seen as Sony’s strongest and most reliable hybrid camera ever created.”

High Resolution, Speed, and AI Combination

The Alpha 1 II camera’s exceptional reliability and versatility arises not just from strength of any single feature, but from the combination of its resolution, speed, and AI capabilities coexisting to amplify one another. Here is a breakdown of each:

High Resolution: The Alpha 1 II produces high-resolution images with a wide dynamic range through the full-frame Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor with approximately 50.1 effective MP resolution. This resolution performance is further enhanced by the latest BIONZ XR® image processing engine. With a separate AI processing unit handling many of the subject recognition capabilities, the camera’s image processing engine now has increased bandwidth to enhance other features.

Speed: The camera offers blackout-free high-speed continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking at up to 30 fps⁶, which can track complex movements with AF/AE calculations at up to 120 times per second⁷. The camera also includes the highly requested Pre-Capture function, which allows images to be captured up to one second before the shutter button is pressed⁸. For additional high-speed performance, users can activate the Continuous Shooting Speed Boost feature that can temporarily increase frame rates in high-action moments.

AI Processing Unit: The Alpha 1 II features Sony’s acclaimed AI processing unit, enabling Real-time Recognition AF. This technology strengthens Sony’s legacy of industry-leading auto focus and allows the user to accurately track animals, birds, insects, and various vehicles. It also introduces Sony’s human pose estimation, that instantly recognizes and tracks a person’s head and torso even when they’re moving or looking away. The Alpha 1 II also brings the latest evolution to Sony’s Real-time Recognition AF, featuring a new “Auto” mode that enables automatic subject recognition without the need to select a specific subject mode⁹.

Stable Performance and Advanced Video Capabilities

A major advancement of the Alpha 1 II is the improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops in the center (compared to 5.5 stops on the original Alpha 1) and 7.0 stops in the periphery¹⁰. The high-speed anti-distortion shutter minimizes rolling shutter effect, delivering clear, undistorted images. The camera also features updated processing algorithms that reduce noise at mid-to-high ISO sensitivities without sacrificing image detail.

The Alpha 1 II maintains the same impressive video capabilities of its successor with the ability to shoot up to 8K 30p with 10bit 4:2:2 color depth, as well as high frame recording capabilities of 120p for 4K. In addition, it features a newly supported Dynamic active Mode for increased stability of video capture¹¹. The camera has a variety of features that support streamlined video creation including Breathing Compensation, Auto Framing, and import User LUTs capabilities.

Improved Ergonomics and Workflow Operability

The Alpha 1 II has been redesigned based on customer feedback including an evolved 3.2-type LCD monitor with a highly requested 4-axis multi-angle that can be freely adjusted to any angle. The Alpha 1 II’s camera body design has improved ergonomics, with many design elements borrowed from the acclaimed Alpha 9 III. Design evolutions include the grip, an enhanced quick release shutter button, and an additional “C5” custom button for added convenience. In addition, the camera is compatible with the VG-C512 vertical grip that provides additional ergonomic support and extended battery performance.

For professionals seeking real-time image transfer solutions, the Alpha 1 II supports 2.5GBASE-T via wired LAN. Images and videos can be transmitted via stable, high-speed 5G communication when the camera is paired with Sony’s PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter (sold separately). Additionally, images and videos can be automatically transferred direct to Adobe Lightroom™ or Google Drive™ through the latest version of Sony's cloud storage service, Creators' Cloud¹³.

In a world of expanding technology and increasing AI, the ability to authenticate a photograph is now more critical than ever before. Images captured with the Alpha 1 II will be compatible¹⁴ with Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution that stores detailed camera information15 within the image files. This aids media agencies and photojournalists in their growing fight against manipulated imagery and AI-generated fakes. This solution will be available through a separate upgrade license and scheduled after December 2024¹⁶.

Additional Accessories and Plastic-Free Packaging

For additional battery support, the Alpha 1 II comes with the new BC-ZD1 Dual-Battery Charger that rapidly charges two Z batteries (model NP-FZ100) simultaneously in 155 minutes to full charge¹⁷. In addition, the Alpha 1 II includes a new deep-type padded eyepiece cup (model FDA-EP21) accessory for an alternative viewing support option. A standard eyepiece comes attached to the camera by default but can be swapped with the deep pad option based on the user’s preference.

The Alpha 1 II is the first Alpha series camera (excluding ZV series cameras) to use Sony’s Original Blend Material for eco-conscious packaging. The materials used for packaging are a unique mix of bamboo, sugarcane, and recycled paper. This makes the packaging entirely free of plastic¹⁸.

Pricing and Availability

The Alpha 1 II will be available in December 2024 for approximately $6,499.99 USD and $8,499.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.

Notes:

¹ When using electronic shutter. Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous frame rate may be lower in some shooting conditions. Continuous shooting speed may vary depending on the lens used in AF-C focus modes. Visit Sony’s support web page for lens compatibility information.

² Maximum pre-capture time may be less in some situations. High continuous shooting speeds can cause an increase in camera temperature. Pre-capture may be limited to protect the device in high ambient temperature conditions.

³ CIPA 2024 standards. Pitch/Yaw/Roll compensation. FE 50mm F1.2 GM lens. Long exposure NR off.

⁴ Dynamic Active Mode is not available when shooting in 8K or at frame rates of 120 fps or higher.

⁵ Including a battery and standard media card.

⁶ When using electronic shutter. Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous frame rate may be lower in some shooting conditions. Continuous shooting speed may vary depending on the lens used in AF-C focus modes. Visit Sony’s support web page for lens compatibility information.

⁷ At shutter speeds of 1/125 sec. or higher. May be less depending on shooting conditions and the lens used.

⁸ Maximum pre-capture time may be less in some situations. High continuous shooting speeds can cause an increase in camera temperature. Pre-capture may be limited to protect the device in high ambient temperature conditions.

⁹ When Auto is selected the camera will normally recognize the subject type automatically, but the wrong type may be selected in some situations. In such cases manually selecting the intended subject type may solve the problem.

¹⁰ CIPA 2024 standards. Pitch/Yaw/Roll compensation. FE 50mm F1.2 GM lens. Long exposure NR off.

¹¹ Dynamic Active Mode is not available when shooting in 8K or at frame rates of 120 fps or higher.

¹² The VG-C5 vertical grip is sold separately.

¹³ Priory settings in the Creators' Cloud mobile application "Creators' App" or "Creators' Cloud Web" is necessary. Network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information. For regional app/service availability, click here https://creatorscloud.sony.net/catalog/en-us/servicearea.html

¹⁴ The Camera Authenticity Solution is available through a separate upgrade license, and this will be supported in a camera software update after December 2024. As of the announcement day, support for the Camera Authenticity Solution is available to select media.

¹⁵ Metadata including provenance information, authenticity of the image captured with the camera, and 3D depth information are embedded into the captured image as an in-camera digital signature.

¹⁶ The Camera Authenticity Solution is available through a separate upgrade license, and this will be supported in a camera software update after December 2024. As of the announcement day, support for the Camera Authenticity Solution is available to select media.

¹⁷ Simultaneous two-battery charging requires a USB PD (30 W min.) compatible power and cable (3 A min.) The CHARGE lamp will turn off when battery charge level exceeds 90% (operational charge). Continue charging for another 30 minutes to achieve a full charge. Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, and usage.

¹⁸ Not including materials used in coatings and adhesives.

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R7 are now available on the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens page.

Fun little lens.

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Full reviews of these four lens models are available, and you can support this site by ordering the new lenses using the links provided.

From Sigma Corporation of America:

SIGMA Announces Pricing and Availability of DC DN Prime Lenses for Canon RF Mount

Ronkonkoma, NY – November 19, 2024 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce pricing and availability of four prime F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary lenses for the Canon EOS R mirrorless camera system. The four lenses are the 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, and 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary.

Development of these four primes for Canon RF Mount was initially announced on April 23, 2024, alongside the 10-18mm 2.8 DC DN | Contemporary and 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary lenses, both of which were released earlier this year.

With the release of these new lenses, SIGMA now offers a total of six APS-C format DC DN lenses for the Canon EOS R System. All six of these lenses are also available for several other mirrorless camera systems including Sony E-mount, L-Mount, and Fujifilm X Mount. The 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary and 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary are additionally offered for Nikon Z mount and Micro Four Thirds.

The 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary will retail for $369 and the 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary will retail for $529. These lenses will be available for purchase on December 5, 2024.

The 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary will retail for $489, and the 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary will retail for $599. These lenses will be available for purchase on January 23, 2025.

The addition of these four premium SIGMA lenses for Canon RF Mount adds to SIGMA's growing lineup of lenses for all major camera systems.

[ Launch schedule of four SIGMA F1.4 prime lenses for Canon RF Mount ]

SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the launch date of SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary and SIGMA 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary for Canon RF Mount, as well as the approximate launch schedule of SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary and SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary for Canon RF Mount.

Launch date: December 5th, 2024 (Thursday)

SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary Supplied Accessories: LENS HOOD LH586-01, FRONT CAP LCF-52 III, REAR CAP LCR II Mount: Canon RF Mount

SIGMA 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary Supplied Accessories: LENS HOOD LH582-01, FRONT CAP LCF-55 III, REAR CAP LCR II Mount: Canon RF Mount

Approximate launch schedule: January 2025

SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary Supplied Accessories: PETAL-TYPE HOOD LH716-01, FRONT CAP LCF-67 III, REAR CAP LCR II Mount: Canon RF Mount

SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary Supplied Accessories: PETAL-TYPE HOOD LH554-01, FRONT CAP LCF-52 III, REAR CAP LCR II Mount: Canon RF Mount

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

#SIGMA #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMADCDN #SIGMARFMount #SIGMA16mmF14Contemporary #SIGMA23mmF14Contemporary #SIGMA30mmF14Contemporary #SIGMA56mmF14Contemporary

[ Long-awaited Canon RF Mount addition ]

SIGMA's APS-C size mirrorless dedicated prime lenses, the SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary and SIGMA 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary will now be available for the Canon RF Mount. These additions allow users to enjoy high-performance, and high-quality SIGMA prime lenses in native mount on their Canon RF Mount system.

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

* Available on supported cameras only.

Mount Conversion Service is available to convert other mounts of SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary and SIGMA 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary to Canon RF Mount, once they launch.

Sigma just launched a long list of great deals in their latest promotion running through December 15: