Sony News (Page 11)

Just posted: Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens Review.

Niche lens that inspires creativity.

Support this site by ordering the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Rent the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens from Lensrentals.

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Image quality test results are now available on the Tamron 28-300mm F4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens page.

See the optical performance of this new super zoom lens.

Compared to the Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 24-240mm F3.5-6.3 OSS Lens

Compared to the Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD Lens

Compared to the Tamron 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens

Please share!

Support this site by ordering the Tamron 28-300mm F4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX | Camera Canada

Tamron as shared the 1st Quarter 2024 Financial Results.

A selection of quotes:

"The interchangeable lens camera market grew by approximately 10% in both volume and value, driven by strong performance in mirrorless cameras."

"The interchangeable lenses market grew by approximately 10% in volume basis and approximately 25% in value basis."

"Net Sales and Operating Income showed double-digit or higher increase in all segments."

"Net Sales significantly increased by approximately 1.4 times and Operating Income significantly increased by approximately 1.7 times YoY."

"Achieved record high Net Sales and Operating Income for the 1st half of the year."

1H: "Sales of mainstay Photographic Products Segment increased by approximately 1.4 times"

"Own-Brand products sales are expected to increase by double digits due to new model launches and sales recovery in Europe and US markets."

"OEM products sales in the 1st half far exceeded the plan, leading to revised sales forecast decrease in the 2nd half compared to the 1st half. However, the initial sales forecast in the 2nd half, which are planned to decrease YoY revised upward to double-digit growth."

"The initial forecast for single-digit increase in Sales and Operating Income has been revised doble-digit increase by maintaining a high profitability due to higher gross profit from higher sales and favorable foreign exchange efforts."

Tamron now plans to introduce 7 new lens models in 2024, up from 6 in the original plan, and up from 5 in 2022 and 2023.

From Manfrotto:

MANFROTTO EXPANDS THE BEST-SELLING BEFREE TRAVEL TRIPOD RANGE

• Packed with features, carry-on size. Super compact travel companions ready for the road with the performance and versatility for any shot, in every location.
• Available in aluminium and carbon fibre, these new Befree models confirm Befree as the lightweight tripod of choice for Pro creators using the latest mirrorless cameras
• 3 New Models for Professionals looking for performance on-the-go including an Arca-compatible model, hybrid model suited to both photo and video and a standalone tripod that can be paired with a head of choice.

August 7th - Manfrotto, the world-leading manufacturer of professional photography, video, and cinema production equipment with over 50 years of experience, announces the addition of 3 new models to its top-selling Befree travel tripod range. Designed for creators using the latest mirrorless cameras, the new Befree tripods offer a lightweight, feature-rich solution for on-the-go photography and videography.

With the rise in popularity of mirrorless cameras and the increasing demand for high-performance, portable equipment, Manfrotto is meeting the needs of professional photographers and hybrid creators with the launch of these new Befree models.

Expanding the existing product range, the new additions offer a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance, positioning them as the must have travel companion to ensure the best shots of any travel experience.

Catering to different scenarios and offering solutions for professionals working in various contexts – whether it is capturing captivating images on-the-go or creating high quality video content, the new Befree tripods provide the precision and reliability required by today’s travel professionals.

Designed to provide the best-in-class solutions for photographers and creators seeking enhanced creativity and functional design in a lightweight package, the new models are available in both aluminium and carbon fibre, providing options for users who value durability and lightweight constructions.

The new Befree models include a full Arca-compatible model for professional photographers, a hybrid model for creators looking capture both photos and videos, and for the first time ever, a standalone tripod leg option that can be paired with the user’s preferred head.

Befree Advanced AS (Aluminium $199.95, Carbon $289.95)

A must have addition to the portfolio for on the road professional photographers working with mirrorless, the Befree Advanced AS is a flexible, reliable tripod kit for users to directly mount different accessories such as a L bracket, camera cage or tele lens collar mount to suit the shoot they have planned without needing a QR plate interface. Fully Arca-compatible, the Befree Advanced AS is made in Italy to certified industry payload standards.

Befree GT PRO 3-Way (Aluminium $329.95, Carbon $429.95)

For travel hybrid creators that are often on the road and need a tripod kit that is compact but versatile to capture mesmerising pictures and unprecedented video footage, the new Befree GT PRO 3-Way is the go-to professional travel tripod for any trip. This hybrid tripod works seamlessly for photo and video applications thanks to the levelling column and 3-Way head with fluid pan and tilt movements for both vertical and landscape video.

Befree GT PRO tripod legs (Aluminium $199.95, Carbon $299.95)

The Befree GT PRO tripod legs are suited for any professional photographer and videographer who carries out jobs in any studio setup. Super compact, with a fully foldable design and a strong payload, the Befree GT tripod legs can be matched with any head of choice – from the Befree 496 Ball Head to any other head from the extensive Manfrotto range.

With travel becoming more popular than ever, the addition of 3 new models to the best-selling Befree tripod collection ensures the range meets the diverse needs of professional photographers and videographers on the move, ensuring performance and versatility for any shot, in every location.

Get your Manfrotto Befree tripod at B&H.

Sony's 2024 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)

Financial Statements
Supplementary Information
Webcast

Sony's numbers are healthy, including those from ET&S, despite a continued decrease in television unit sales.

Learn more about the new Godox AD600Pro II All-in-One Outdoor Flash at B&H.

This is version II of the flashes used for the site's lens testing. They are a great value.

This flash is also available in the Flashpoint brand at Adorama.

I'm pulling a line item out of my long-forming and yet unpublished Bryan's Laws of Photography. That law is:

Bryan's Law of Following: Those you follow set the quality bar for your imagery. While you may not love your images as much when comparing them to the best, your path to producing great imagery will be shorter if you know what great is, if you have a goal. Follow the greats.

For example, I have long respected Ian Plant's work. He is a photographer I consider to be great and, therefore, follow.

Ian's compositional skills are outstanding, and his ability to combine composition with the perfect light makes his images impressive.

Next steps:

1. Check out Ian's website at https://ianplant.com/.
2. Sign up for Ian's free webinar to learn many of his favorite techniques for making artistic photos.
3. Consider signing up for Ian's Photo Masters Pro membership.
4. Through Aug 4th, save 25% on select ebooks and videos (some are free).

You, too, might start asking, "What would Ian do?" when approaching a composition.

From Tamron Americas:

TAMRON Announces the Launch of the 10.7x All-in-One Zoom Lens
28-300mm F/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD (Model A074)

Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 28-300mm F/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD (Model A074), a 10.7x all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras on August 29, 2024, at $899 USD / $1199 CAD.

The TAMRON 28-300mm F4-7.1 VC is an all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. This lens covers a broad focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 300mm telephoto with superior imaging performance. It achieves a zoom ratio of 10.7x with a length of just 5” (126mm) and weighs only 21.5 oz. (610g). The lens is equipped with the VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism, enabling it to focus quickly and accurately throughout the entire zoom range. The lens also features TAMRON’s VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism to ensure sharp hand-held images when shooting at the 300mm telephoto end and in low-light conditions. With an MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 7.5” (0.19m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.8 at the wide end, the lens allows users to enjoy the world of wide macro photography. It includes a Focus Set Button and a connector port for the dedicated TAMRON Lens Utility™ software independently developed by TAMRON to expand the scope of expression for still images and video. The lens features Moisture-Resistant Construction, and the front element has a protective Fluorine Coating. The new 28-300mm F/4-7.1 VC lets users take photos in an extremely wide range of situations with just one lens.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

1. 10.7x zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras that covers the focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 300mm telephoto

The greatest feature of the 28-300mm F/4-7.1 VC is its 10.7x zoom focal length range. In response to users stating that 200mm is not quite long enough at the telephoto end for an all-in-one zoom lens, TAMRON has extended the focal length to 300mm. Exceptionally portable, the lens features a highly compact design. This single lens allows shooting in everyday life and during travel, including landscapes, snapshots, portraits and sports photography. It's an extremely versatile lens that lets users take photos in any situation of any subject without changing lenses.

2. Outstanding imaging performance

This new TAMRON zoom has an optical construction of 20 elements in 13 groups. It includes one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) lens element and an LD (Low Dispersion) lens element to efficiently control aberrations such as chromatic aberration. The BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) Coating suppresses ghosting and flare, producing clear images even in backlit conditions. It boasts best-in-class image quality as an all-in-one zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

3. Lightweight and compact lens body

Despite covering a 10.7x focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 300mm telephoto, the lens is very compact, with a length of only 5” (126mm) and a weight of 21.5 oz. (610g). Small and versatile, it can be casually carried anywhere, and users are unlikely to tire even after long hours of shooting. It's ideal for people who want to carry a smaller camera bag. Additionally, the lens makes it easy to frame accurately when shooting still and moving images while zooming in and out, such as sports and wildlife, and is designed to be comfortable to use.

4. Equipped with VXD, TAMRON’s top-class linear motor focus mechanism

The 28-300mm F/4-7.1 VC is equipped with the VXD autofocus drive that includes TAMRON’s premium linear motor focus mechanism to ensure that the focus is attained quickly and accurately throughout the 10.7x zoom range. Upending the stereotype of all-in-one zoom lenses having slow autofocus, its nimble operation allows users to capture more fleeting photo opportunities. The quietness supports photography and videography in conditions that require silence.

5. TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism

Although it's compact, the 28-300mm F/4-7.1 is equipped with TAMRON’s proprietary VC mechanism that lets users take steady photos, especially at the 300mm telephoto end of its broad 10.7x range. VC effectively suppresses camera shake that often occurs when shooting in the telephoto range or under low-light conditions, thereby helping users take sharp photos without a tripod.

6. Proprietary software tool TAMRON Lens Utility for lens function customization and firmware updates

7. High convenience and operability

- 67mm filter size, same as most other TAMRON lenses for mirrorless cameras
- Focus Set Button for assigning camera function and TAMRON Lens Utility function
- Enhanced overall lens design for user-friendly operation
- Zoom Lock mechanism

8. Protective features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)

9. Compatible with many camera-onboard features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: A074
Focal Length: 28-300mm
Maximum Aperture: F4-7.1
Angle of View (diagonal): 75°23'-8°15' (for full-frame mirrorless format)
Optical Construction: 20 elements in 13 groups
Minimum Object Distance: 7.5” / 0.19m (WIDE), 39” / 0.99m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:2.8 (WIDE) / 1:3.8 (TELE)
VC (Vibration Compensation): Yes
Filter Size: Ø67mm
Maximum Diameter: Ø77mm
Length*: 5” (126mm)
Weight: 21.5 oz. (610g)
Aperture Blades**: 9 (circular diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture: F22-40
Standard Accessories: Flower-shaped hood, Front cap, Rear cap
Mount: Sony E-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.

This product is developed, manufactured, and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.

Orders

Support this site by ordering the Tamron 28-300mm F4-7.1 Di III VC VXD Lens (or anything else) from B&H.

Sony Alpha 7 IV firmware update version 3.02 is available for download.

Firmware Version 3.02 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Improved an issue where recording may stop during video recording.

Always read the precautions.

Get the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H.

I've been using a pair of Alpha 1 cameras for Sony lens testing and for field use when a Sony lens better fit the need. The flagship a1 is an outstanding camera. What are the differences between the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and the Sony Alpha 1?

Check out the R5 II vs. a1 specification comparison along with the visual comparison of these cameras.

Here is a summary of the R5 II's advantages:

• Eye Control AF vs. no (dramatically faster AF point or area positioning)
• Pre-continuous shooting (hindsight is far clearer than foresight, and recording an image of an action in the near past is game-changing)
• AF working range of EV -7.5 to 21 vs. EV -4 – 20 (the Canon camera focuses in considerably darker environments)
• 6144-zone metering vs. 1200-zone (more areas evaluated yields potential improvement in auto exposure results)
• More framerate options – 30, 20, 15, 12, 10, 7.5, 5, 3, 2, and 1 compared to 30, 20, 15, and 5 (with electronic shutter, but the mechanical shutter adds 10, 8, 6, and 3)
• Up to 8k DCI 60p RAW vs. 8K 30p
• 2.1 million dot vari-angle LCD vs. 1.44 million tilt
• CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD slots vs. dual multi slot for UHS-II SD and CFexpress Type A (Type B cards are faster and less expensive than A cards, but A cards are smaller and faster than SD cards)
• 8.5-stop IBIS vs. 5.5
• Neural Network upscaling (2x larger in both dimensions to 179 megapixels) and noise reduction processing in camera (both with JPG output only)
• High-Frequency Anti-Flicker shooting (evaluates the scene and precisely adjusts the shutter speed to avoid banding and flicker, including from LED signage)
• 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 GHz vs. 802.11ac (5 GHz)
• 4-Channel 24-Bit LPCM Audio vs. 2-Channel 16-Bit
• Modestly lighter
• Far lower price

That is a solid list.

Here are the a1's 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)
• +/- 5 stops exposure compensation vs. 3
• 240 fps EVF vs. 120
• Pixel Shift Multi Shooting (provides dramatically higher resolution after post processing, but everything in the frame must be still)
• 0.64" (16mm) 9.44 million dot EVF vs. 0.50" (12.7mm) 5.76 million dots
• 1/400 max flash sync vs. 1/250
• Ethernet port vs. available with accessory grip
• Modestly smaller

Comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics, and these two cameras have significant differences in those regards. Advantages will often be determined by personal preference.

The bottom line is that both cameras are incredible and my two favorites. However, the R5 II's $2,199.00 lower price makes it a considerably better deal.

If you have not already done so, order the R5 II immediately if you have even a remote interest in it.

More Information

Canon EOS R5 Mark II

Sony Alpha 1

The a9 series targets sports and action, and the a9 III is Sony's latest model in that series. This camera was introduced earlier in the same year as the R1, and includes some outstanding features.

Check out the R1 vs. a9 III specification comparison along with the visual comparison of these cameras.

What are the differences between the Canon EOS R1 and the a9 III? Here are the R1 advantages:

• ISO 100-102400 expandable to 50 and 409600 vs. 250–25600 and 125 to 51200 (notably, the a9 III omits the lowest noise settings)
• Eye Control AF vs. no (dramatically faster AF point or area positioning)
• AF working range of EV -7.5 to 21 vs. EV -5 – 20 (the Canon camera focuses in darker environments)
• 6144-zone metering vs. 1200-zone (more areas evaluated yields potential improvement in auto exposure results)
• 230 image RAW buffer vs. 106
• Has 6K RAW
• 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 GHz vs. 802.11ac (5 GHz)
• Has a top LCD panel
• Dual CFexpress Type B slots vs. dual multi slot for SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-I/II)/CFexpress Type A (Type B cards are faster and less expensive than A cards, but A cards are smaller and SD cards are less expensive)
• Higher capacity battery rated for 1330 LCD and 700 EVF vs. 530 and 400 (the a9 III's battery grip doubles these numbers, closing much of the gap)
• Neural Network upscaling (2x larger in both dimensions to 179 megapixels) and noise reduction processing in camera (both with JPG output only)
• 8.5-stop IBIS vs. 8

The a9 III's advantages are:

• Global shutter, 0 ms imaging sensor readout speed vs. 2.7 ms (While this difference seems small, the global shutter can eliminate some issues, such as LED signage flicker)
• 120 fps continuous shooting vs. 40 (while 40 fps is sufficient for most needs, the 120 fps difference is noticeable)
• Metering range of EV -5 – 17 compared to EV -3 – 20
• +/- 5.0 EV exposure compensation vs. +/- 3
• 1/80000 shutter vs. 1/64000 (likely few us us will care about this difference)
• Flash sync to 1/80000 vs. 1/400
• 0.64" (16mm) EVF vs. 0.50" (12.7mm)
• 240 fps EVF refresh rate vs. 120 fps
• 4-axis multi-angle touchscreen LCD vs. vari-angle
• Considerably smaller and lighter: 26.0 vs. 39.3 oz (737 vs. 1115 g) (but the a9 III's grip adds 10.23 oz (290 g) and considerable size, closing the gap)
• Slightly less expensive

Again, comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics, and these two cameras are vastly different. Those advantages are a personal preference.

If you have not already done so, order the R1 immediately if you have even a remote interest in it.

More Information

Canon EOS R1

Sony Alpha 9 III

Three Sigma DG DN Art lenses have firmware new updates available:

• Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens version 04
• Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens version 02
• Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens version 04

Download these updates from Sigma Global.

These firmware updates incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Compatibility with continuous shooting of up to approximately 120 frames per second has been added for the autofocus modes (AF-S/DMF/MF) on Sony a9 III cameras.
2. The operational stability has been improved. (only Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens)

Let's compare a pair of outstanding Sony cameras, starting with the flagship Sony Alpha 1. Check out the R1 vs. Alpha 1 specification comparison along with the visual comparison of these cameras.

What are the differences between the Canon EOS R1 and the a1? Here are the R1 advantages:

• 40 fps for 230 RAW images vs. 30 fps for 238 (96 frame using the comparable lossless compression) (having faster continuous shooting available is an advantage, but 30 fps is really fast)
• 12 fps with mechanical shutter vs. 10 (only matters if you use it)
• More framerate options – 40, 30, 20, 15, 12, 10, 7.5, 5, 3, 2, and 1 compared to 30, 20, 15, and 5 (with electronic shutter, but the mechanical shutter adds 10, 8, 6, and 3)
• 2.7 ms imaging sensor readout speed vs. 3.8 (while technically a win for the R1, you won't likely notice the difference, and the Sony is reading 50 megapixels at that speed)
• AF working range of EV -7.5 to 21 vs. EV -4 – 20 (the Canon camera focuses in considerably darker environments)
• ISO 100-102400 expandable to 50 and 409600 vs. 100–32000 and 50 to 102400 (the R1 will show less noise at the pixel level, but the two should nearly equalize if the a1 image is down sampled to 24 megapixels — and you won't want to use the highest ISO settings)
• 1/64000 vs. 1/32000 (crazy fast holds a small niche advantage over extremely fast)
• Eye Control AF vs. no (dramatically faster AF point or area positioning)
• Pre-continuous shooting (hindsight is far clearer than foresight, and recording an image of an action in the near past is game-changing)
• 6144-zone metering vs. 1200-zone (more areas evaluated yields potential improvement in auto exposure results)
• Electronic shutter flash sync up to 1/400 sec. (some sources say 1/320) vs. 1/200
• 2.1 million dot vari-angle LCD vs. 1.44 million tilt
• Has a top LCD panel
• Dual CFexpress Type B slots vs. dual multi slot for SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-I/II)/CFexpress Type A (Type B cards are faster and less expensive than A cards, but A cards are smaller and SD cards are less expensive)
• Neural Network upscaling (2x larger in both dimensions to 179 megapixels) and noise reduction processing in camera (both with JPG output only)
• 8.5-stop IBIS vs. 5.5
• High-Frequency Anti-Flicker shooting (evaluates the scene and precisely adjusts the shutter speed to avoid banding and flicker, including from LED signage)
• 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 GHz vs. 802.11ac (5 GHz)
• 4-Channel 24-Bit LPCM Audio vs. 2-Channel 16-Bit
• Higher capacity battery rated for 1330 LCD and 700 EVF vs. 530 and 430 (the a1's battery grip doubles these numbers, closing much of the gap)
• Slightly less expensive

Despite being introduced 3 years earlier, the a1 still holds advantages:

• 50 megapixel vs. 24 (a big difference, but not everyone finds the higher resolution worth the increased storage size and processing time)
• Touch and drag AF area slection vs. not available
• +/- 5 stops exposure compensation vs. 3
• 240 fps EVF vs. 120
• 8K 30p vs. 6K 60p movies
• Pixel Shift Multi Shooting (provides dramatically higher resolution after post processing, but everything in the frame must be still)
• 0.64" (16mm) EVF vs. 0.50" (12.7mm)
• Considerably smaller and lighter: 26.0 vs. 39.3 oz (737 vs. 1115 g) (but the a1's grip adds 10.23 oz (290 g) and considerable size, closing the gap)

Comparing across brands is significantly challenged by the differing interface and ergonomics, and these two cameras are vastly different in those regards. Advantages will often be determined by personal preference.

If you have not already done so, order the R1 immediately if you have even a remote interest in it.

More Information

Canon EOS R1

Sony Alpha 1

Sony a7S III firmware update version 3.02 is available for download (Sony).

Firmware Version 3.02 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:

1. Fixed an issue where the ISO value was not reflected correctly when outputting RAW video to a RAW-compatible device connected via HDMI, and where the upper and lower limit ranges that could be set when the ISO value was set to AUTO were incorrect.
2. Fixed an issue where network connection was not possible.
3. Improved operational stability.

This update is only available for Windows and macOS. The memory card version is not available.

* Read the precautions before beginning this update.

Get the Sony a7S III at B&H.

Before we dig into the details, I strongly advise preordering these cameras immediately if you have even a remote interest in them. They are in extremely high demand, and I expect preorders to long consume supply. Orders are easy to cancel, but lines are not easy to get to the front of.

Important: Using the links on this site, including below, to place your order provides important support. Thanks in advance for that!

Extensive Hands-On Information:   Canon EOS R5 Mark II     Canon EOS R1

If you are short on time, browse the feature summaries near the top of each page. Note the comparisons between the R5 II and the R5, R6 II, R3, and R1 included on the Canon EOS R5 Mark II page.

Preorders

Canon EOS R5 Mark II: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Canon EOS R1: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada

Get extra Canon LP-E6P Batteries: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX

Canon BG-R20 Battery Grip: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada

Canon BG-R20EP LAN Port Grip: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada

Canon CF-R20EP Cooling Fan Grip: B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Camera Canada

Just posted: Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens Review.

Find out how the new lighter, smaller, and more affordable 35 L lens performs. Additional sample photos are coming.

Support this site by ordering the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX | Amazon (all available countries) | Camera Canada

From Sony Electronics:

Sony Electronics Announces the Next-Generation ZV-E10 II and E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II Lens Kit

The Newest APS-C Camera in Sony’s ZV Series Brings Highly Requested Features and Updates to the Top-Selling Mirrorless Camera

July 10, 2024

SAN DIEGO, July 10, 2024. Sony Electronics launches the ZV-E10 II, the second generation of the top-selling mirrorless ZV-E10 cameraⁱ. The original ZV-E10 is a staple APS-C camera in Sony’s ZV content creation camera series, designed to provide an easy, compact, and versatile tool for content creators of any level. The new ZV-E10 II maintains all the features creators love about the original, such as Creative Looks, Product Showcase Setting, Background Defocus function, and the vari-angle flip screen – and builds on it to increase sophistication and ease of use.

The ZV-E10 II’s internal hardware has been improved from its predecessor with an upgraded 26-megapixel (MP) (approx. effective) Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and adoption of Sony’s latest BIONZ XR™ image processing engine. A few additional updates to this model include improved autofocus and video capturing capabilities: Cinematic Vlog Settingⁱⁱ, a new vertical format user interface (UI), an upgraded large-capacity Sony Z battery for improved stamina and improved connectivity for easy live streaming and data transfer. Staying true to the ethos of the ZV Series, this camera has been redesigned to streamline the content creation process even further, enabling creators to focus less on camera settings and more on their art and creativity. It is compact and lightweight and fits into a creator’s hand with ease, weighing in at approximately 377 gramsⁱⁱⁱ.

In addition, the E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II (SEL1650/2) is announced, a compact APS-C power zoom lens which will be available separately or as part of the ZV-E10 II’s camera kit. The upgraded kit lens is lightweight and offers improved autofocus (AF) and video performance compared to the first-generation model.

“From the beginning, the goal of the Sony ZV line was to create cameras that produced high-quality results while being extremely easy to use. Today, the ZV line continues to uphold that standard, but we’re taking it a step further,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “Our aim with the advancements of the ZV-E10 II is to inspire creators to develop or recreate their own unique style through features like personalized Creative Looks and Cinematic Vlog Setting. We are continually evolving our technology to help creators of all skill levels bring their visions to life.”

Create Your Own Photo and Video Aesthetic

The ZV-E10 II features two key functions designed to produce premium-looking content straight from the camera, Creative Looks and Cinematic Vlog Setting. When shooting both stills and videos, users can instantly enhance their images by selecting any of the ten Creative Look options: Standard (ST), Portrait (PT), Neutral (NT), Vivid (VV), Vivid 2 (VV2), Film (FL), Instant (IN), Soft Highkey (SH), Black & White (BW), and Sepia (SE). Each of these looks are further customizable and can be edited through eight different parameters, allowing creators to fine-tune their content. Once customized, creators can save up to six custom styles directly in the camera for easy access and reuse.

The ZV-E10 II allows creators to produce premium, cinematic video content with a single touch using the Cinematic Vlog Setting. This feature automatically adjusts the aspect ratio, frame rate, and AF transition speed to optimal settings for cinematic video capture. Additionally, creators can enhance their footage by selecting from five “Looks”, such as S-Cinetone™ that enhances skin tones, and applying one of four “Moods”^iv, that emphasize specific colors, offering extensive options to maximize creative expression.

Key Camera Specifications

• 759-point Focal Plane Phase-detection AF^v with Real-time Eye AF for Human/Animal/Bird and Real-time Tracking
• Backside illuminated 26MP Exmor R CMOS sensor offering an ideal combination of high sensitivity and low noise with an ISO range from 100 to 32000^vi
• APS-C interchangeable lens camera compatible with over 70 Sony E-mount lenses
• High-speed readout, 5.6K oversampling compresses a vast amount of information into stunning 4K footage at up to 60p^vii
• Active Mode^viii electronic image stabilization employs a precision gyroscope and advanced algorithm to accurately measure and compensate for camera shake, providing highly effective stabilization without sacrificing mobility, even when shooting 4K
• Upgraded large-capacity Z battery (NP-FZ100), allowing continuous movie recording^ix for up to 195 minutes per charge

Additional Features to Streamline Content Creation

• New Vertical User Interface (UI) that auto rotates from horizontal to vertical orientation to streamline vertical content creation. When paired with the vari-angle LCD monitor, users can create and view their content from any angle
• With 4K 60p capture and up to 120p capture in clear XAVC-S Full HD quality, the user can record stunning motion sequences using the S&Q modex at 5x slow motion (24p playback)
• Product Showcase Setting which delivers convenient shooting of product review videos with smooth focus transitions from your face to the item being highlighted
• Background Defocus Function to adjust the depth of field and create bokeh within the background with a single touch
• Face Priority Auto-Exposure immediately detects faces and adjusts the exposure to optimize facial brightness, even while actively recording in changing lighting scenarios
• Soft Skin Effect smooths the appearance and reduces blemishes on the subject’s skin
• Stress-free connectivity with the USB 3.2 Type-C® (SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps) port also allows high-speed wired transfer to a compatible smartphone or PC through the Creators App for easy post-production and sharing on social media^xi
• Time-lapse sequences^xii can be created in-camera and the exposure interval can be set from 1 second to 60 seconds^xiii
• Advanced, onboard 3-capsule microphone with selectable directivity (previously debuted in the ZV-E1) for capturing clear, high-quality audio. Users can select “Auto” or choose from “Front”, “Rear”, or “All Directions” for the audio directivity depending on the environment and recording scenario settings
• Supplied with the camera, is a windscreen to reduce noise when shooting in windy conditions
• Multi-interface (MI) shoe allows for simple connection to an external microphone for additional audio options, if needed
• Livestream through the support of 5 GHz^xiv Wi-Fi connectivity
• Sony’s Screen Reader function^xv, which reads menus and video playback screens aloud to assist operations, and a menu Magnify Display function are included to provide accessibility solutions
• Designed with Environmentally Friendly Principles in Mind

The ZV-E10 II camera body is made from recycled materials, including SORPLAS™ ^xvi, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing functionality. The individual packaging is made from Sony's unique recycled paper "Original Blended Material" that uses materials such as bamboo, sugar cane fiber, and recycled paper collected from the market. Over the past 11 years, Sony has replaced approximately 395 tons^xvii of virgin plastic with recycled plastic in digital cameras and digital video cameras.

Main Features of the Versatile E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II

The E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II is Sony’s 75th E-mount lens and an ideal kit lens solution for the new ZV-E10 II due to its compact size and versatile range (35 mm full-frame equivalent focal length: 24-75 mm). High-resolution performance is achieved by four aspherical elements and one ED (Extra low Dispersion) element in an effective optical design. With a minimum focusing distance of 9.8 inch (0.25 m) (wide)/ 11.8 inch (0.30 m) (tele) and maximum magnification of 0.215x, the E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II offers versatile close-up performance to capture details. It retracts to a total length of approximately 1.25 inches (31.3 mm) when camera power is turned off. Due to its diminutive size and low weight of approximately 3.8 oz. (107 grams) it is a portable lens that can support day-to-day shooting.

Smooth, useful power zoom is ideal for movie shooting, and AF is available even while zooming. Built-in optical stabilization works with in-body stabilization^xviii, including Active Mode, to minimize blur in movies. The E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II supports in-body breathing compensation^xix to minimize shifts in angle of view while focusing for smooth, stable footage.

Pricing and Availability

The ZV-E10 II will be available at the end of July 2024 for a suggested retail price of $999 USD ($1,399 CAD) for the camera body only, and $1,099 USD ($1,499 CAD) for the kit. The E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II in black will be available in August 2024 for a suggested retail price of $299 USD ($399 CAD). They will be sold directly through Sony.com and other Sony authorized dealers throughout North America.

Orders

Preorders will be accepted starting Thu, Jul 11, 2024 at 10:00am ET.

Order the Sony ZV-E10 II and Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II Lens at B&H.

Order the Sony ZV-E10 II and E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II Lens direct from Sony.

Order the Sony ZV-E10 II and Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II Lens at Wex.

Notes:

ⁱ Sony’s Alpha ZV-E10 is #1 in Mirrorless Cameras. Source: Circana, Retail Tracking Service, 12 months ending December 2023, U.S. unit sales

ⁱⁱ Available in the movie and S&Q modes. Not available for XAVC S-l 4K recording in S&Q mode.

ⁱⁱⁱ Weight included with battery and SD card.

^iv Mood is not available when the [Mono] Look is selected.

^v When shooting stills. The number of AF points depends on the shooting mode.

^vi Expandable to ISO 50 - 102400 when shooting stills. ISO range is 100 - 6400 when SteadyShot is set to Active.

^vii Recording frame rates are listed as integer values, but the actual frame rates are as follows: 24p = 23.98 fps, 30p = 29.97 fps, 60p = 59.94 fps, and 120p = 119.88 fps.

^viii Slight image crop in Active Mode. Active Mode is not available when recording at frame rates of 120 fps/100 fps or higher, including S&Q. ISO range is 100 - 6400 when SteadyShot is set to Active in movie mode.

^ix When the battery is fully charged, using the E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II and recording in XAVC S HD 60p 50M 4:2:0 8-bit. Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, storage, and usage. ? Batteries are consumable products and their capacity degrades over time as they age. Sony does not guarantee the life span of the battery.

^x Audio recording is not available in the S&Q mode.

^xi The Creators' App is required for transfer to a smartphone. Visit https://www.sony.net/cca/ for information on regional availability. The server info and stream key for the streaming service to be used must be registered before use. Download app at Google Play and the App Store. 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.

^xii Shooting time will vary according to conditions. Use the [Interval Timer] function to shoot time-lapse sequences at long intervals (e.g. 10 minutes or more).

^xiii Maximum shooting interval is 6 seconds when shooting 4K.

^xiv 5 GHz communication may be restricted in some countries and regions.

^xv Supported languages differ depending on the sales region.

^xvi Depending on the time of production, SORPLAS™ may not be used for some parts.

^xvii ? According to Sony. Recycled materials used for product bodies and accessories from April 2012 to March 2023.

^xviii See camera compatibility (Image stabilization with body-lens coordinated control) info at: https://www.sony.net/dics/fnc1002/

^xix Please refer to support page; https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/www/cscs/function/compatibility.php?area=jp&lang=en&cs_ref=slct_lang&fnc=1001

One power adapter to replace them all. The Xcellon PDG-4200B 4-Port 200W GaN USB Charger is on sale for half price today ($59.99) at B&H.

We have an ever increasing number of USB charged and powered devices, and often, each has its own power adapter, often vying for receptical space in the same location. Taking all those chargers traveling is another complication.

What if a single charger could cover of all your needs? And, what if that charger had more power than all your other chargers combined? This might be that one.

B&H recently sent me the high-quality, ultra-useful, Xcellon PDG-4200B GaN (Gallium Nitride, remains cooler than silicon) charger, featuring 4 ports with up to 200W total power output. Increasing our productivity (and feeding our impatience) is this charger's support of PD 3.0, PPS (Programmable Power Supply), QC4+, and Samsung Super Fast fast charging. Short circuit, overcurrent, overvoltage, and overtemperature preventions are provided.

The individual port ratings add up to more than the 200w this charger is capable of, and thus, limits are imposed. Here are the possible power distribution combinations:

USB-C (Port 1 or 2): 100W
USB-C (Port 3): 65W
USB-A: 60W
USB-C (Port 1 and 2): 100W + 100W
USB-C (Port 1 or 2 and 3): 100W + 65W
USB-C (Port 1 or 2) and USB-A: 100W + 60W
USB-C (Port 3) and USB-A: 12W + 12W
USB-C (Port 1 & 2) and USB-C (Port 3) or USB-A: 100W + 65W + 30W
USB-C (Port 1 or 2), USB-C (Port 3), and USB-A: 100W + 12W + 12W
USB-C (All 3 Ports) and USB-A: 100W + 65W + 12W + 12W

The 3' (0.9m) power cable moves the snarl and space competition away from recepticals.

The simple charger is compact, measuring only 3.5 x 2.5 x 1.4" (89.2 x 64.7 x 36.3 mm), with the 11.7 oz (331 g) weight being its primary con. The weight feels substantial compared to the small size, but it aids in the solid feel.

With various devices connected to the same charger, it seems that hub capabilities would have been an easy feature to include, but this device is dedicated to providing power.

Consider pairing this charger with Pearstone USB4 Type-C 240W Power Delivery Cables (up to 40 Gb/s, 48V/5A, Thunderbolt 3 & 4) to power laptops, cameras, etc.

Get the Xcellon PDG-4200B 4-Port 200W GaN USB Charger for half price today at B&H.

Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results are now available on the Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM Lens page.

Here are some comparisons to get you started:

Compared to the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Lens

Compared to the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Tamron 35mm f/1.4 Di USD Lens

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