This composite image was my primary goal for the 2024 total solar eclipse. What I didn't foresee was the effort required to get the shots.
The weather forecast was the problem, and the over 1,000 miles added to the rental car tell only part of the story that included a day-prior relocation from an ideal shooting location in central TX to north central AR — storm unchasing.
Fortunately, the clear sky chase was successful, and the second-darkest exposures from the C1 brackets described in the Total Solar Eclipse Photography Plan provided the optimal exposures for this image.
The images in this composite were captured 1-second apart, illustrating how fast the favorite Baily's Beads stage passes.
The individual images are straight out of Lightroom with the default settings, with slight shadow brightness and clarity increases added to the final image in PS.
The left and right-side images are independently rotated to enable a horizontal format that retains clear visibility of the progression.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Mark May 15th on your calender. USPS is set to release Ansel Adams landscape stamps:
Postal Service to Honor Ansel Adams With Stamps Showcasing 16 Stunning Portraits of the American Landscape
What:
First-day-of-issue dedication ceremony for the Ansel Adams Forever stamps featuring 16 photographs made by the esteemed artist and environmentalist.
The first-day-of-issue event for the Ansel Adams Forever stamps is free and open to all visitors of Yosemite National Park. News of the stamps is being shared with the hashtag #AnselAdamsStamps.
Who:
The Hon. Daniel Tangherlini, a member of the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors, will serve as the dedicating official.
Matthew Adams, grandson of Ansel Adams
Cicely Muldoon, superintendent, Yosemite National Park
Scott Gediman, public affairs officer, Yosemite National Park
Shelton Johnson, park ranger, Yosemite National Park
Alan Ross, photographer
When:
May 15, 2024, at 11 a.m. PDT
Where:
The Ansel Adams Gallery
9031 Village Drive
Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
RSVP:
Ceremony attendees are encouraged to RSVP at usps.com/anseladamsstamps.
Background:
Experience the wonder of the American West through the lens of one of America’s most iconic photographers, Ansel Adams (1902-1984). This pane of 16 stamps features some of Adams’ most famous images in his signature “straight photography” style, an approach defined by its precision and directness.
The first row of stamps, left to right, features “Half Dome, Merced River, Winter, Yosemite National Park, California” (1938); “Oak Tree, Sunset City, Sierra Foothills, California” (1962); “Thundercloud, Ellery Lake, High Sierra, Sierra Nevada, California” (1934); and “Denali and Wonder Lake, Denali National Park, Alaska” (1947).
The second row, left to right, features “The Golden Gate and Bridge from Baker Beach, San Francisco, California” (c.1953); “Road and Fog, Del Monte Forest, Pebble Beach, California” (1964); “Rock and Grass, Moraine Lake, Sequoia National Park, California” (1936); and “Leaves, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington” (c.1942).
The third row, left to right, features “Monument Valley, Arizona” (1958); “Tetons and Snake River, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming” (1942); “Jeffrey Pine, Sentinel Dome, Yosemite National Park, California” (1940); and “Mirror Lake, Mount Watkins, Spring, Yosemite National Park, California” (1935).
The fourth row, left to right, features “Maroon Bells, near Aspen, Colorado” (1951); “Aspens, Dawn, Autumn, Dolores River Canyon, Colorado” (1937); “Road After Rain, Northern California” (1960); and “Dunes, Oceano, California” (1963).
As evidenced by the striking images in this collection, Adams devoted much of his career to the advancement of photography as a fine art. Derry Noyes, an art director with USPS, designed the stamps using existing photographs.
Watch for the Ansel Adams stamps to become available here.
ProGrade Digital just added six new products to their lineup:
ProGrade Digital is thrilled to introduce new CFexpress 4.0 memory cards in Type A and Type B formats. The CFexpress 4.0 Type A is VPG 200 rated and comes in 480GB and 960GB capacity. The CFexpress 4.0 Type B is VPG 400 rated and comes in a 400GB, 800GB, and 1.6TB capacity.
In conjunction with our introduction to the CFexpress 4.0 Type A cards, we are excited to announce a CFexpress Type A Single-Slot USB 4.0 Reader (PG09.6). Paring both products enables you to cut your workflow in half.
ProGrade Digital is also introducing Ingest Pro - a software that enables videographers and photographers to streamline their data management workflow. Ingest Pro incorporates functionality from Refresh Pro which enables you to sanitize ProGrade Digital memory cards to ensure they are ready for re-use in the capture environment and monitor the health of the card.
We are also introducing a 256GB CFexpress 4.0 Type B Gold memory card. This capacity provides optimal performance for RAW shooting applications with higher performance and write speed capability.
CFexpress 4.0 Type A Iridium Memory Cards:
CFexpress 4.0 Type B Iridium Memory Cards:
CFexpress Type A Single Slot USB 4.0 Reader (PG09.6):
CFexpress 4.0 Type B Gold 256GB Memory Card:
Today, April 11, 2024, we have launched a higher capacity 512GB microSDXC V60. This capacity enables you to record an extended number of video clips and capture a larger number of stills. Ideal for drones, action cams, and cameras like the Nikon Zf and Canon Power Shot V10.
microSDXC V60 512GB Memory Card:
Get your ProGrade Digital cards and readers at B&H.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics’ Launches Camera Remote SDK Firmware Updates
Version 1.12 Provides Remotely Managed Menu Settings and Camera Control Through Wi-Fi Enabling Remote Control of a Wide Range of Digital Cameras through ISO- Standard PTP Protocol
SAN DIEGO. April 12, 2024 – Today, Sony Electronics launched a new version (Version 1.12) of the previously released Camera Remote SDK (Software Development Kit), bringing more features and Wi-Fi connection amongst other improvements. Additionally, new Camera Remote Command capabilities enable remote control of a wide range of 29 digital camerasi. Through this new specification document, Sony removes restrictions to third-party software development and supports the creation of software that remotely controls Sony’s digital cameras, including shooting, monitoring, and file transfer. These updates are available at no cost through the link here: https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/app/sdk/en/index.html
Camera Remote SDK is a high-level command system designed for development efficiency that enables operation and control of Sony digital cameras using dedicated API provided by Sony. This is ideal for use with high-level APIs to efficiently develop programs. This package includes software modules, API references, and sample code.
Version 1.12 expands the capabilities of compatible models (Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III and Alpha7 IV) and now also supports the a9 III, a full-frame interchangeable lens camera with Global Shutter technology. It provides a more efficient workflow when using Sony digital cameras to take remote photographs in the B2B market, like inspections and surveys and e-commerce.
Version 1.12 and later supports the following features:
1. In addition to USB and Ethernet connections, it also supports Wi-Fi, making it possible to use it even in environments where wired connections are difficult, expanding the range of use.
2. Approximately 100 types of functionsii will be expanded for automation will be added such as: remote key operations, newly added Fn Menu operation and Custom key, etc.
In addition, it supports switching the memory card slot for recording still images and videos according to the shooting situation and switching the ISO AUTO upper/lower limit according to the shooting environment.
Camera Remote Command
Camera Remote Command enables remote control of cameras using a communication protocol that is Sony's proprietary extension of the ISO standard PTP (Picture Transfer Protocol). This increases convenience when operating camera products from different brands with a single software, or when applying existing software to Sony’s digital cameras. This package includes command references and sample code for developers. Some of the users could be healthcare system development integrators, ITS integrators or photobooth photography system developers, and more.
Both "Camera Remote Command" and "Camera Remote SDK" will be collectively called "Camera Remote Toolkit." Developers can choose the most suitable method according to their development purpose and application.
For more information and to download Camera Remote Toolkit, please visit the URL below.
https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/app/sdk/en/index.html Notes:
i For the full list of compatible cameras, please see: https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/app/sdk/en/index.html
ii Currently, the models that support this function are the A1, A7S III and A7 IV. For details on the functions, please check the specifications included with the SDK. Future supported models will be announced in upcoming updates to the API reference.
"DJI Avata 2, Goggles 3 and RC Motion 3 Give Beginner FPV Pilots the Skills of Professionals" [DJI]
Learn more about the DJI Avata 2 FPV Drone, Goggles 3, and RC Motion 3 at B&H.
Learn more about the DJI RS 4 Pro Gimbal Stabilizer and DJI Focus Pro at B&H.
Also: B&H Explora
Sony Alpha 6700 firmware update version 1.03 is available for download.
Firmware Version 1.03 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Sony Alpha 6700 at B&H.
Just posted: Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens Review
As I said before, you are going to like this one.
Please share!
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX
Rent the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens from Lensrentals.
Shiprock, named for its resemblance to an old clipper ship, is surrounded by a vast desert, with clear views from nearly all directions. While the enormous rock formation provides a dramatic subject over the flat desert, I found the tall, narrow, naturally formed dike leading to it especially entertaining and a great foreground subject to include in the frame.
On a clear day, the first sunrise light casts a golden color on this landscape, and this light angle's contrast emphasizes the texture of Shiprock.
I planned, flew, drove, lodged, got up early, drove farther, and then hiked. That effort and expense meant no settling for second best on the camera and lens. Why were the Canon EOS R5 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM Lens selected?
The R5 is currently my preferred Canon camera. It continuously delivers beautiful, accurately focused, high-resolution images.
The light shown in this image only lasts for a few minutes, and the RF 24-105 had the optimal focal length range to rapidly capture a variety of compositions, including some with Shiprock more isolated in the frame. Since a narrow aperture was needed for increased depth of field, a larger, heavier, and wider aperture lens was not necessary or desired, and this L lens feeds the R5 the impressive optical quality required for stand-out images.
A larger version of this image is available here.
From Sony Electronics:
Sony Electronics Delivers Firmware Updates including C2PA Compliancy as a Next Step to Ensure Authenticity of Images
More than 45 Updates for the Alpha 1, Alpha 9 III, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 7 IV will also improve Shooting Functions and Workflow
SAN DIEGO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Sony Electronics delivers the highly anticipated firmware updates for the Alpha 1 (Ver. 2.00), Alpha 7S III (Ver. 3.00), Alpha 7 IV (Ver. 3.00), and after April 2024, the Alpha 9 III (Ver.2.00). The update contains some of Sony's most impactful technology, including Camera Authenticity Solution, the proprietary in-camera digital signature and C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity) format supporti. Together, these tools will make it possible for news agencies to ensure the authenticity of images, contributing to industry efforts to protect creators, and society from fake imagery.
Additionally, the firmware updates include many requested features to improve everyday use. The update evolves shooting functions and post-shooting workflow and brings advanced movie features like breathing compensation. It also includes new remote-control capabilities, new features for professional applications, and expanded access to cloud services applications.
"There is nothing more core to our mission than listening to the voices of the photographers, videographers, and filmmakers who shoot with Sony Alpha cameras. We know this community has been asking for these updates, and we're happy to deliver. Each of these updates are designed to promote ease of use for our creators and allow them to maximize the strengths of their cameras," says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. "We're especially pleased to deliver C2PA compliancy with this update. This compliancy paired with our unique digital signature technology, allows us to offer the most secure and comprehensive solution to protect professional photographers, news agencies, and society from manipulated imagery."
Camera Authenticity Solution
Last year, Sony announced its commitment to developing technology in its cameras to aid in the fight against manipulated imagery and AI-generated fakes. The severity of this issue is only increasing and it's a complex problem that requires the focus and attention of our entire industry.
One critical part of the solution is making more Sony cameras C2PA compliant. C2PA is a Joint Development Foundation project, where Sony is a steering committee member. C2PA aims to develop an end-to-end open technical standard to provide publishers, creators and consumers with opt-in, flexible ways to understand the authenticity, and provenance of different types of media. The C2PA is a standards-setting body that will develop technical specifications on content provenance and authentication by certifying the source and history of media content. With this firmware update, the authenticity information embedded on images from Alpha 1, Alpha 9 III, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 7 IV can be maintained from capture through publication. This provides professional photographers with the ability to preserve their digital signature from the camera, while tracking the editing history throughout revisions.
Another critical component of the solution is Sony's in-camera digital signature technologyii that signs images in real-time. This new feature certifies the authenticity of an image at the point of capture and creates a 'digital birth certificate' that is retained throughout revisions. The signature contains metadata including 3D-depth information captured through the proprietary technology in the image sensor developed by Sony. This depth information can show if the image captured was of an actual 3D object, vs a photograph of an image or video, providing an extra level of protection and even more assurance of the content's authenticity, and making Sony's solution especially unique for photojournalists and news agencies.
Sony's solution also helps protect the authenticity of content by including an Image Validation Site, which verifies the image even after edits have been made by C2PA-compliant editing software. This service confirms the authenticity of the photo was taken by a specific camera and that the object of the photo is 3D. This service will initially be offered to select news media agencies, expanding to other agencies at a later date.
Shooting and Playback Updates
The firmware updates include over 10 new features, as well as improvements to existing features, designed to improve the user's overall shooting experience. These improved capabilities showcase Sony's commitment to continuing to evolve the functionality of Sony's existing camera models. A few highlights of the firmware update functions include:
File Transfer and Network Connectivity
Additional updates aimed to optimize the post-production workflow efficiency include improvements to International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC) preset and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) transfer operability. To streamline processes for users, expanded cloud upload and application services will be available. Key updates include:
Many of these updates are applicable to multiple cameras, however for a list of each body's specific update please check the Sony website.
Firmware Downloads
Download the latest firmware from Sony's support pages (not all updates are available at press time):
Notes:
i This feature is available to some news organizations at the press release timing.
ii Both Sony's in-camera digital signature technology and C2PA compliance are currently available through a separate upgrade license.
iii For compatible lens information, please refer to the support page
iv For regional app/service availability, check here. To use this service, it is necessary to download and install the upgrade license.
v Remote Camera Tool Version 4.1.0 is required to activate the function.
vi For compatible lens information, please refer to the support page
vii A dedicated adapter cable, which is sold separately, is required to connect to the timecode source equipment.
viii Availability varies depending on country and region. Available through the Upgrade and License Management Suite.
ix For regional app/service availability, check here. Creators' App Ver.2.3.1 or later is necessary. Settings must be made in the Creators' App in advance. For more information, please visit the Creators' App support website
x When connecting to a device with a USB Type-C port, please use a commercially available USB cable or a conversion adapter.
This bull's herd of cows was split, half on the far side of the ridge with him, and the other half on the near side. Predictable was that he would come back for the rest.
The bull had choices on where to come back over the ridge, but not all were photographically optimal, including significant brush obstructions at some locations. Setting up for the ideal returning elk composition was the logical plan, and this bull hit the opening perfectly.
There is an aspect of this image that I do not like, but I'll start with some of the positive aspects.
The primary subject is a good specimen, with a large rack that includes a substantial and unique drop tine.
The early morning light is soft, avoiding hard shadows and creating a strong catchlight in the eye. The slightly upward shooting angle provides a regal perspective on the animal.
Shooting at 20 fps enabled the capture of this image with the bugling elk and its laid-back antlers precisely framed, without interruption, by pine trees and rocks. The trees and rocks have shape, color, and contrast character, and the distant background consists of an attractive pattern of blurred spruce trees.
Photographing bugling behavior is always a goal, and the front leg, especially the far front leg, bent slightly attractively conveys action and positions the head at a higher level than other positions in its cadence. You can visualize him walking out of the opening.
So, what don't I like about this picture? The elk has three legs. It doesn't really have three legs, but the back right leg is aligned with; and therefore hidden by, the front left leg. Viewed at full size, the larger back leg is visible around the front leg, but at typical web viewing size, only three legs are discernable.
This image is a slight pano. The elk came through fast, and I was holding slightly too far to the left when this pose was struck. The framing a few frames prior included slightly more of the right border that gives the image slightly improved overall balance.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results, along with specs, measurements, and standard product images, are now available on the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens page.
You are going to like this one – it's a great lens. The full review will be available soon.
Here is a visual comparison of the Sony, Sigma, and Canon 50mm F1.2 lenses:
Here is the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens to the left of the F1.2 lens:
Here are some image quality comparisons:
Compared to the Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM Lens
Compared to the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art Lens
Compared to the Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Lens
Compared to the Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG DN Art Lens
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX
Rent the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III firmware update version 1.9.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.9.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III at B&H.
Canon EOS R6 firmware update version 1.8.4 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.8.4 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R6 at B&H.
Canon EOS R5 firmware update version 2.0.0 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 2.0.0 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R5 at B&H.
Canon WFT-R10 firmware update version 1.3.1 is also available for download.
Fix: Enhances security for FTPS (File Transfer Protocol Security) connections.
Canon EOS R3 firmware update version 1.7.1 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.7.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS R3 at B&H.
Sony Alpha 7R V firmware update version 2.02 is available for download (read the precautions on the download page before installing this update).
Sony Alpha 7C R firmware update version 1.02 is available for download.
Sony Alpha 7C II firmware update version 1.02 is available for download.
Sony ZV-E1 firmware update version 1.03 is available for download.
Firmware updates incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get your Sony camera at B&H.
From Sigma Corporation of America:
Announcing the 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens, the Brightest 50mm Prime Lens in SIGMA's Lineup
Ronkonkoma, NY – March 26, 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 the new SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens, a remarkably compact, ultra-fast standard prime lens for full-frame mirrorless camera systems. The new SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is the brightest in the SIGMA 50mm prime lens lineup, while delivering extremely high optical performance from its widest aperture. It has achieved the highest level of performance among successive generations of Art lenses.
The F1.2 maximum aperture allows photographers to actively take advantage of the large bokeh effect and to shoot handheld with a wide aperture in low-light situations such as indoors and evening scenes. Thanks to the excellent correction of various aberrations such as spherical aberration, sagittal coma flare, and axial chromatic aberration, along with SIGMA's first 13-blade rounded diaphragm, which maintains a circular bokeh effect even when the aperture is stopped down, this lens delivers beautiful imaging characteristics.
Dual HLA-driven floating focusing, with one group near the front of the lens and one group near the back, provides stable optical performance from close to distant focus. The design also minimizes focus breathing, with very little change of the angle of view as focal distance changes, which is helpful for video capture. The dual floating HLA autofocus achieves focus smoothly, swiftly and silently for both still and video, and the manual focus ring can be assigned to be linear or non-linear response on compatible L-Mount cameras.
Despite the fast aperture, the SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens is has the lightest weight in its class*, and is 30% smaller than the SIGMA 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens. It is very similar in size and weight to the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens, which was achieved in part by streamlining the optical system.
* Full-frame mirrorless 50mm F1.2 lenses as of March 2024.
As a DG DN Art lens designed specifically for full-frame mirrorless camera systems, the SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is built with dust and splash-resistant structure, water and oil-repellent coating on the front lens element, and durable brass bayonet mount; along with click/de-click and lockable aperture ring, an AFL button, and AF/MF switch.
Offered in L-Mount and Sony E-mount versions, the lens will be available on April 18, 2024 at a retail price of $1,399 through authorized retail partners.
Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras
A | Art
SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN
Unveiling another SIGMA Art line F1.2 lens.
Elevating photographic mastery beyond conventional limits.
Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH782-03, FRONT CAP LCF-72mm III, REAR CAP LCR II
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
Launch date: April 18, 2024
* The appearance and specifications of the products are subject to change.
* Sony E-mount lenses are developed, manufactured and sold in accordance with the E-mount specifications licensed under a license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
#SIGMA #SIGMA50mmF12Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtPrime #SIGMADGDN
The lightest in its class* – Bright F1.2 maximum aperture and the highest level of descriptive power from SIGMA's Art line.
SIGMA's Art line has been offering new possibilities and surprise for expression, and now the SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is here to break the standards. SIGMA's focus with this lens is on the descriptive power that is perfectly usable from the widest aperture, and on portability that allows the high performance to be demonstrated in any field. In terms of image rendition, SIGMA achieved high resolving power from the maximum aperture throughout the entire focus range, while also enriching the beauty of the large bokeh effect at F1.2. In addition, the lens construction and mechanical design have been stripped down to the bare essentials, resulting in a significantly compact and lightweight body. The lens is also equipped with a full range of functions suitable for professional use, including high-precision AF using the latest HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) that reduces volume while maintaining the same thrust. We hope users will enjoy the superb Art F1.2, which will transform everything they capture and even their photographic experience into something extra special.
* As an AF 50mm F1.2 interchangeable lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. (As of March 2024 by SIGMA)
[Key Features]
1. Highest descriptive power to take advantage of F1.2 brightness
The SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art has been designed with an emphasis on high resolution from the maximum aperture to the full focus range and large, beautiful bokeh expression. The contrast between the sharpness of the focus surface and the melting bokeh effect creates a three-dimensional effect thanks to its F1.2 aperture. In addition, the 13-blade diaphragm allows for beautiful bokeh expressions. Focus breathing is also well-suppressed that the F1.2 rendering can be fully utilized in video recording.
Brightness of F1.2 maximum aperture and high resolution from minimum to infinity focus
The latest optical design achieves high resolving power with each aberration thoroughly suppressed from the maximum aperture. The lens is capable of rendering details without color bleeding in any situation. In addition, the incorporated floating focus is advantageous in improving short-range performance, ensuring a stable, high-level image quality throughout the entire range from the minimum focusing distance to infinity.
Rich and beautiful bokeh without color bleeding
By correcting spherical aberration, sagittal coma flare, axial chromatic aberration, and other aberrations, the lens delivers natural bokeh images that blur smoothly and without color bleeding from the focal plane. Double-line bokeh is also suppressed, allowing users to take advantage of the mellow bokeh effect in their expression.
Rounded diaphragm with 13 blades
The lens incorporates SIGMA's first 13-blade diaphragm, which maintains a circular shape even when stopped down from the maximum aperture. The surface accuracy of the aspherical lens has been enhanced to the utmost to enable smooth and beautiful round bokeh expressions.
Designed to minimize focus breathing
Optimization of the focus group arrangement and aspherical shape significantly suppresses focus breathing. The change in angle of view due to focus shift is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus shift when recording video.
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, are addressed under all conditions of incident light, based on the most advanced simulation technology. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions.
2. Lightest lens body in its class*, suitable for a wide range of applications
By uncompromisingly pursuing high optical performance and portability, which are inherently contradictory, the highest level of performance has been condensed into the lightest lens body in its class. The SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art can be used not only in limited situations and applications, but in all kinds of shooting environments.
* As an AF 50mm F1.2 interchangeable lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. (As of March 2024 by SIGMA)
Dual HLA incorporating a new system
A new system was developed that significantly reduces the volume while maintaining the same thrust of the HLA, which is characterized by its high driving accuracy and quietness, and is featured in each of the two focus groups. This technological innovation has realized both high-speed autofocus and a compact lens body.
Lens construction and mechanical design stripped down to the absolute minimum
Each piece of glass is made as thin as possible while employing glasses with a high refractive index and four aspherical lenses. The high level of production technology at SIGMA's only manufacturing base, the Aizu factory, provides the exacting precision necessary for processing these thin glass elements and making this mass production possible. In addition, the floating focus ensures high performance while shortening the overall length, resulting in a compact lens. In the mechanical design phase, emphasis was placed on weight reduction. Through the systematic elimination of individual components, SIGMA attained the distinction of producing the lightest lens in its class, weighing a mere 745g / 26.3oz.*
* These figures are for L-Mount.
3. A wealth of functions for professional use and excellent build quality
In addition to various functions that support photography, such as the AFL button* and an aperture ring, the construction of the lens body itself and its high-quality touch and feel are also pursued. The SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is designed with high functionality and reliability to meet the stringent demands of professionals, as well as excellent build quality for long-lasting, reliable use.
* Function available on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used.
Proud to be a tool of expression, excellent build quality with SIGMA's Art line specifications
By assembling high-precision parts made of lightweight and strong TSC* and other materials, the lens has the high level of rigidity and durability of SIGMA's Art line specifications without sacrificing portability, as well as excellent build quality that allows for long-lasting and reliable use as a photographic tool.
* TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) is a type of polycarbonate with a thermal expansion rate similar to that of aluminum. It has a high affinity to metal parts, which contributes to high quality product manufacturing.
Various shooting assist functions
The lens is equipped with an AFL button which can be assigned to a range of functions via the menu on selected cameras. In addition to the aperture ring, the lens is equipped with an aperture ring lock switch and a click switch to turn the click on and off.
Dust and splash resistant structure* and water and oil repellent coating
In addition to a dust and splash resistant structure, the front element of the lens features a water and oil repellent coating, allowing users to shoot without concerns even in harsh outdoor environments.
* The structure is designed to be dust and splash resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.
Includes a petal-type hood with lock
A dedicated petal-shaped hood is supplied. A locking mechanism is provided for secure attachment.
[ Additional Features ]
[ Key Specifications ]
The following specifications are for L-Mount.
Lens Construction: 17 elements in 12 groups (4 aspherical elements)
Angle of view: 46.8°
Number of diaphragm blades: 13 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum aperture: F16
Minimum focusing distance: 40cm / 15.8 in.
Maximum magnification ratio: 1:6.2
Filter size: 72mm
Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 81.0 x 108.8mm / 3.2 x 4.3 in.
Weight: 745g / 26.3 oz.
Orders Order the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX
Rent the Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art Lens from Lensrentals.
Capturing a photo of a buck leaping a fence or log was on my photo bucket list, and the right circumstances enabled that line item to be checked off.
During the rut, a buck will stay with a doe that is ready to breed. Most of the time, the action is slow, but periodically, the doe will play a cat-and-mouse game, running away. When that happens, the buck gives chase, and that's what happened this morning in Shenandoah National Park.
The buck raced after the doe, and a log was in its way. I was on the other side of the log.
The Canon EOS R5 and RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens impressively nailed this shot, tracking the buck's eye as it fast approached.
I was slightly behind in my panning, but a small pano created from two consecutive shots opened up the left side of the image just enough to provide space in the subject's direction.
The shallow 400mm f/2.8 depth of field strongly blurred the distracting forest background, making the deer appear to be leaping out of the frame.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Canon EOS C500 Mark II firmware update version 1.1.1.1 is available for download (Canon USA).
Firmware Version 1.1.1.1 incorporates the following fixes and enhancements:
Get the Canon EOS C500 Mark II at B&H.