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Posts Tagged ‘february’

Adobe releases February update for its suite of photography-centric applications

12 Feb

Adobe has announced the release of its February updates for its collection of photography programs, including Adobe Camera Raw, Lightroom Classic and Lightroom for macOS, Windows, iOS, iPadOS, Android and ChromeOS.

Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom Classic

Starting with Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom Classic, Adobe has improved the Raw Default setting. Specifically, Adobe has made it easier to configure the default develop settings within the ‘Preferences -> Presets’ submenu. The default options can be applied universally or customized based on the camera model and serial number.

In a similar vein, Adobe has made it easier to use the picture styles or profile settings within your camera when editing images, rather than using the Adobe Color profile that was previously standard. Adobe says ‘With the new raw default settings, you can now use Camera Settings as the default to preserve the “as shot” look and reduce your edit time.’

Both Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom Classic have also received performance improvements. Now, both programs have full GPU acceleration for Lens Correction and Transform adjustments, and Enhance Details can now make use of external GPUs (eGPUs) on macOS 10.15 ‘Catalina.’

Lightroom Classic has also added support for PSB files. Starting with this update, you can import, catalog and edit Large Document Format (.psb) files within Lightroom Classic. Other improvements specific to Lightroom Classic include improved secondary display selection tools, auto-sync improvements and the ability to import Photoshop Elements 2020 catalogs into Lightroom Classic.

Lightroom for Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, iPadOS, and ChromeOS

Moving onto Lightroom for Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, iPadOS, and ChromeOS, Adobe has brought a number of features to various platforms and overall improved the performance across nearly all devices.

Now, on Lightroom for Mac and Windows, you can export images in the DNG format. Previously, this functionality was limited to Lightroom on Android and iOS. Lightroom for Mac and Windows also receives improved Shared Albums support, which allows you to control what metadata is shared when uploading photos to other shared albums and allows you to export photos from other contributors who have uploaded photos to a specific shared album.

Other changes to Lightroom for Mac and Windows include dedicated shortcuts for creating HDR (Ctrl + Shift + H) and Panorama (Ctrl + Shift + M) images via Photo Merge and improve importing options that include the ability to import to a specific album using drag-and-drop functionality.

Moving onto mobile, Lightroom for Android and iOS have an improved ‘Learn and Discover Content’ views that make it easier to browse through various artwork. Lightroom for Android has also gained the ability to import presets and profiles; Adobe says Lightroom for iOS will gain this functionality ‘soon.’

Lightroom for iPadOS has also gained support for split-screen view that makes it possible to browse, sort, edit and export photos while also having another application open on the screen of your iPad.

You can read more about all of the updates on Adobe’s blog post. The updates should be available through the Creative Cloud desktop app and the respective app stores for Android and iOS.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm X-T4 to be unveiled on February 26th

05 Feb

At its ‘X Summit’ in London, Fujifilm announced that the X-T4 will be unveiled later this month, on February 26th. And that’s all we know at this point, so check back then for all of the details.

What features are you hoping to see on the X-T4? Let us know in the comments below.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm GF 45-100mm F4 R LM OIS WR will ship in February for $2300

24 Jan

The Fujifilm GF 45-100mm F4 first appeared on the company’s medium format lens roadmap in September 2018 for release in 2020, and it’s now slated to ship in February with a $ 2300 price tag. This weather-sealed zoom covers an equivalent range of 36-79mm and includes image stabilization rated at 5 stops.

The GF 45-100mm is sealed at 11 points to promote dust- and moisture-resistance, and will continue operating in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). It weighs 1005g (2.2lb).

You can add it to your GF lens collection in late February for $ 2,299.95.

FUJIFILM INTRODUCES THE FUJINON GF45-100MMF4 R LM OIS WR LENS

Valhalla, New York – January 23, 2020 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the standard zoom “FUJINON Lens GF45-100F4 R LM OIS WR” (hereinafter “GF45-100mmF4 R LM OIS WR”) in late February 2020.

This new lens joins the current family of interchangeable GF Lenses, designed for the GFX large format*1 Camera System and covers some of the most frequently used focal lengths by photographers. The GF45-100mmF4 R LM OIS WR lens has an equivalent focal length range of 36mm and 79mm on a smaller 35mm format system, a maximum aperture of F4 and is a natural fit with two other GF Zoom Lenses–the GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR and the GF100-200mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR. Together, these three lenses provide photographers with a broad range of focal lengths, accommodating a wide range of shooting styles and enabling them to become incredibly versatile and creative.

Combining rugged construction with high-performance optics, GF45-100mmF4 R LM OIS WR is an incredibly versatile lens that is perfect for capturing nature, landscapes, or portraits. Featuring powerful 5-axis image stabilization, one super ED lens element, and a near-silent, high-speed autofocus motor, this is the perfect tool for creating images in challenging and unpredictable situations. Its dust- and weather-resistant construction allows the lens to operate in temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit/-10 degrees Celsius and its high-resolution performance and wonderfully smooth bokeh will capture the atmosphere of any scene or subject.

Product features:

Astonishing image-resolving power and wide tonal reproduction
The GF45-100mmF4 R LM OIS WR lens consists of 16 elements in 12 groups, including three aspherical elements, one Super ED element and one ED element to effectively control spherical aberration, field curvature and chromatic aberration. This minimizes the negative effects of various forms of aberration, such as luminance shift and color bleeding, to deliver astonishing image sharpness.

Compact and lightweight large format standard zoom
Weighing 2.2lb (1,005g), measuring 5.69in (144.5mm) long, and having a diameter of 3.66in (93mm), the lens is extremely portable and compact despite being a 2.2x zoom for a large format camera system.

Fast, quiet and highly-accurate AF
The use of an Internal Focusing system has minimized the size and weight of the focusing group, which is driven by a linear motor to achieve fast, quiet and highly accurate AF.

Powerful image stabilization
The lens is equipped with five stop image stabilization (CIPA guidelines), allowing
photographers to make the most of the high-resolution sensors found in GFX System
cameras, especially when making images hand-held.

Highly robust design that withstands various shooting conditions
The lens has 11 seals for dust and weather resistance to allow for peace of mind in
tough environments, allowing for operation at temperatures down to 14°F / -10°C.

The GF45-100mmF4 R LM OIS WR lens will be available in late February 2020, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 2,299.95 USD and $ 2,999.99 CAD. For more information, please visit https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/lenses/gf45-100mmf4-r-lm- ois-wr/.

*1 An image sensor that measures 55mm diagonally (43.8mm x 32.9mm), providing approx. 1.7 times the area of a 35mm full-frame sensor

Fujifilm GF 45-10mm F4 R LM OIS WR specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size Medium Format (44x33mm)
Focal length 45–100 mm
Image stabilization Yes
CIPA Image stabilization rating 5 stop(s)
Lens mount Fujifilm G
Aperture
Maximum aperture F4
Minimum aperture F32
Aperture ring Yes
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 16
Groups 2
Special elements / coatings 1 ED, 1 super ED, 3 aspherical elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.65 m (25.59)
Maximum magnification 0.13×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Linear Motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 1005 g (2.22 lb)
Diameter 93 mm (3.66)
Length 145 mm (5.71)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Filter thread 82 mm
Hood supplied Yes

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI expected to release at least 3 new drones in 2020, starting February

24 Jan
The Mavic 2 is suspected to be succeeded by the next-generation Mavic drone.

Last May, DJI made an important announcement: starting January 1, 2020, every drone model weighing over 250 grams will have AirSense Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) receivers installed. By identifying helicopters and airplanes nearby, drones equipped with ADS-B sensors will be able to detect obstacles and avoid collisions. It would only make sense that DJI plans on rolling out new models soon, especially after a relatively quiet 2019.

A DJI Mavic 3 was expected by the end of this month. However, according to DroneDJ, invites for an industry release party have yet to be sent out. This is certainly not a promising sign. There are two reasons for this possible delay – the Skydio 2 and Autel EVO II. The latter is the most concerning as it blows the Mavic series out of the water with superior specs including the first consumer-grade 8K camera.

A delay in the Mavic 3 may mean the DJI Mavic Air 2 will be the first consumer-grade model featuring ADS-B technology to be released in 2020. Rumored upgrades to the original Mavic Air include longer battery life, 360º obstacle avoidance, aerodynamic propellers for quieter flights, and improved 4K video with an Ambarella processor.

The Matrice 300 is expected to arrive before the end of February. The Matrice 200 and 210 models are primarily used by search and rescue teams, police forces, and firefighters. The enterprise-grade drones started malfunctioning and falling from the sky, according to a report by the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch. A Matrice 600 is also a possibility toward the third or fourth quarter of this year.

Keep in mind these are only rumors. DPReview has not received any confirmation on new releases for 2020 from our contacts at DJI.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS)

22 Jan

The post The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

 

fujifilm-x-t4-to-be-announced

It might come as a bit of a surprise, but it looks like we’re getting a Fujifilm X-T3 successor earlier than expected:

The Fujifilm X-T4.

(While the “X-T4” moniker isn’t official, we’re definitely talking about a successor to the X-T3.)

According to Fuji Rumors, the X-T4 will drop in March, with an official announcement on February 4th. This breaks the common two-year upgrade cycle that Fujifilm generally follows; the Fujifilm X-T3 was released in late September 2018, and the Fujifilm X-T2 was released just over two years prior, in early September 2016.

It’s possible that this faster upgrade indicates only minor changes between the two cameras. But I find this unlikely, given the high expectations Fujifilm has created for itself after producing the phenomenal X-T3.

So while the details are sparse, let’s talk about what we know (or suspect) will be present in the Fujifilm X-T4.

First, the most persistent rumor addresses what might be the biggest complaint regarding the X-T3:

In-body image stabilization.

The Fujifilm X-T4 will have IBIS, according to Fuji Rumors. To date, the only Fujifilm camera with IBIS is the Fujifilm X-H1, which sacrificed a compact build in order to include the IBIS tech. Hold the Fujifilm X-H1 and you get a DSLR-like experience, compared to the compact, travel-ready build of the X-T3.

Fortunately, it seems that we won’t see a Fujifilm X-H1 build for the X-T4. Instead, Fuji engineers have likely compacted the IBIS tech, so the X-T4 will feature IBIS will little-to-no increase of size.

As for other Fujifilm X-T4 features, while nothing has been confirmed, we can predict a modest upgrade in resolution (perhaps from the current 26 MP to a 28 MP or even 30 MP sensor). And we can expect at least equivalent continuous shooting speeds (30 fps with 1.25x crop, 20 fps with the electronic shutter uncropped, 11 fps with the mechanical shutter) to the X-T3, as well as dual card slots, impressive autofocus, and (maybe) a fully-articulating touchscreen.

There’s also a possibility of 6K/60p video, which would be a clear step up from the 4K/60p offered by the X-T3.

Regardless, we don’t have long to wait.

So keep your eye out for further updates on the X-T4, which is bound to be an incredible addition to Fujifilm’s already-formidable APS-C mirrorless lineup.

The post The Fujifilm X-T4 to be Announced in Early February (With IBIS) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Nikon’s 70-200 F2.8 for Z-mount to ship in February

07 Jan

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Nikon’s new Nikkor Z 70-200mm F2.8 VR S is the first full-frame tele-zoom for the company’s Z-mount. The lens has Vibration Reduction built-in – which works in tandem with the Z6 and Z7’s in-body IS system – and can reduce shake by up to 5 stops.

As with Nikon’s F-mount 70-200s, the Z-mount version has both internal focus and zoom. The company claims minimal focus breathing and also that this is a parfocal lens, keeping the subject in focus as you zoom. It has a total of 21 elements, including one SR (short wavelength refracting) to reduce longitudinal chromatic aberration, as well as 6 ED, 2 aspherical and 1 fluorite elements. It also features Nikon’s Nano Crystal and Arneo coatings to minimize both off-axis and on-axis flare, respectively. The 70-200 can focus down to 0.5m at its wide end and 1m at its telephoto end, with a maximum magnification of 0.2x. These short focus distances are achieved using two separately driven autofocus units.

The 70-200 F2.8 weighs in at 1.4kg (3.2lbs) and uses 77mm filters. A customizable control ring allows for quick adjustment of aperture or exposure compensation, and a digital display shows things like aperture and focus distance. As with other high-end Z-mount lenses, the 70-200 is weather-sealed.

The Nikkor Z 70-200 F2.8 VR S will be available in February for $ 2599.

Official sample photos

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NIKON ASSERTS COMMITMENT TO OPTICAL SUPERIORITY WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF CUTTING-EDGE Z MOUNT, F MOUNT AND COOLPIX PRODUCTS

The New NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S Redefines a Quintessential Photographer Favorite for the Z System; The AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is a Ground-Breaking Pro Super-Telephoto Zoom Lens; The COOLPIX P950 Packs an 83X Optical Zoom to Bring the World Closer

LAS VEGAS – CES BOOTH #14018 (January 6, 2020 at 9:00 P.M. ET / 6:00 P.M. PT) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced three new innovative products that affirms the imaging brand’s commitment to bringing optical excellence to all levels of customers. First, the new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S is the latest in the ever-expanding Z mount lens line, giving users of Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras an indispensable workhorse lens for capturing action and portraits. For professional sports and wildlife photographers, the new AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is an enticing high-performance, professional super telephoto F mount NIKKOR lens. Finally, the COOLPIX P950 is a powerful new addition to Nikon’s superzoom bridge camera lineup, offering creators a spectacular 83x optical zoom and a myriad of innovative features to take their creativity to new heights.

“Nikon continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in imaging and lens technology,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “The new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S takes advantage of the next-generation optical system offered by the Nikon Z mount to create a versatile 70-200mm lens with astounding sharpness and clarity, cementing this S-line lens as a staple for those who demand only the best from their lenses.”

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S – Astonishing Details, Uncompromising Zoom
An essential pro-level telephoto zoom lens re-imagined to take advantage of the optical potential of the Z series, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S is the latest addition to Nikon’s rapidly growing lineup of mirrorless lenses. The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 represents a pivotal lens for the Z series and a must-have for those shooting action, weddings, events, news, wildlife and portraits. Equipped with a versatile focal range, fast f/2.8 aperture and an impressive 5 stops of built-in optical VR image stabilization1, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm gives mirrorless shooters the flexibility to capture astoundingly sharp images and videos in a variety of scenarios. Additionally, multimedia and content creators using the lens will appreciate the stepping motor (STM) for extremely quiet autofocus operation and reduced focus breathing.

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S demonstrates the technological benefits of the Nikon Z mount to reinvent a classic lens, while including new features to make this photographer favorite even more superior for Z series users. Parfocal support maintains focus when zooming, while a reduced minimum focus distance (0.5m wide, 1.0m telephoto) vastly increases versatility for photos and video. When used in combination with the in-body stabilization of the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 promises unparalleled stability with additional optical stabilization. Like other S line lenses, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 boasts a premium optical design complete with a 9-blade diaphragm as well as Anti-Reflective Nano Crystal and ARNEO coatings for maximum image quality in any light, with a Fluorine coating that resists dirt and smudges. In addition to a rugged weather sealed design the lens is ready to tackle any assignment with a dedicated Info Panel, two customizable Function buttons and an additional custom control ring.

The new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S and AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR are the first Nikon lenses to feature the newly developed SR (Short-Wavelength Refractive) lens element, a specialized-dispersion glass lens featuring characteristics that greatly refract light with wavelengths shorter than that of blue. By controlling short-wavelength light that is difficult to compensate, the lens can more effectively collect light of various specific wavelengths and achieve highly precise chromatic aberration compensation.

AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR: Impressive Reach, Incredible Speed, Absolute Versatility
The all-new AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is a versatile, professional lens for the Nikon F mount with a large focal range and fast constant aperture. It’s ideal for sports, wildlife and portrait photographers seeking a bright and fast telephoto lens that offers sharp image quality across a wide range of focal lengths. Thanks to its extensive 120-300mm focal range, the NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 provides users with a pro-level single lens solution, replacing the need to carry multiple lenses. With Nikon’s reliable weather-sealed construction, the NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 is equipped to handle any shooting scenario whether on the sidelines or in the wilderness.

Users will appreciate the constant f/2.8 aperture which offers incredible low-light capability and depth of field that draws emphasis to a subject. The impeccably sharp image quality, beautiful bokeh and enhanced AF performance of the NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 offer speed and sharpness reminiscent of a prime. Engineered with Nikon’s cutting-edge technologies, the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is the first NIKKOR F mount lens to adopt Nikon’s new SR lens element as well as Nikon’s anti-reflective ARNEO coat to deliver superior chromatic aberration compensation and effectively reduce ghost and flare. The built-in VR function provides an effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.0 stops1 and includes a Sport VR mode for rapidly moving subjects.

Ready for professional use, the lens is sealed to resist the elements and is engineered for maximum usability, even when handheld. The zoom ring, focus function buttons, tripod collar ring and controls are all designed to ensure superior operability for more comfortable shooting.

COOLPIX P950: 2,000mm Zoom Power, 4K UHD Video & More
With an unbelievable 83x optical zoom NIKKOR lens, the 16-megapixel COOLPIX P950 is a powerful new addition to Nikon’s superzoom bridge camera lineup, which delivers unprecedented image quality from extreme distances. Beyond the staggering 24-2000mm lens, the COOLPIX P950 packs an advanced feature-set complete with Nikon’s renowned NIKKOR optics and advanced stabilization technology with 5.5 stops of VR image stabilization, allowing stargazers and birdwatchers to capture high-quality photos or 4K UHD videos at extreme distances with ease. Plus, by using the COOLPIX P950’s 166x** Dynamic Fine Zoom for far-away subjects and Macro Shooting capabilities to get as close as 0.4 inches, adventure-seekers can bring the unimaginable closer than ever.

Users can rely on the P950 to photograph life’s most unique subjects with incredible accuracy and focus thanks to its Target Finding AF capabilities, 7 fps continuous shooting and ISO sensitivity up to 6400. A great option for photographers of all skill levels, the COOLPIX P950 features user-friendly controls alongside an intuitive menu system and a 2359k-dot EVF, making it easier to review and capture one-of-a-kind shots. Using dedicated Bird-Watching and Moon Modes, photographers can effortlessly snap photos of their world and beyond. The new P950 also adds RAW (NRW) photo recording, an enhanced high-resolution electronic viewfinder and Nikon SnapBridge2,3,4 to seamlessly share images or remotely control the camera.

The COOLPIX P950 is also equipped with an accessory shoe to enable compatibility with a variety of useful accessories, including the optional DF-M1 Dot Sight, which helps users locate subjects and compose shots from far-away distances.

Pricing and Availability
The new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S lens and COOLPIX P950 will be available in February for suggested retail prices (SRP) of $ 2,599.95* and $ 799.95*, respectively. The AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR lens will also be available in February for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 9,499.95*. For more information about Nikon and their latest products, please visit?www.nikonusa.com.

1. Based on CIPA Standard. This value is achieved when attached to an FX-format digital SLR camera, with zoom set at the maximum telephoto position.
2. The camera’s built-in Bluetooth® capability can only be used to connect the camera to a compatible smart device running the SnapBridge app, and to take advantage of SnapBridge features.
3. This camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® capability can only be used with a compatible iPhone®, iPad®, and/or iPod touch® or smart devices running on the Android™ operating system. The Nikon SnapBridge application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera.
4. Using the SnapBridge App System Requirements:

a. Android 5.0 or later or 6.0.1 or later
b. A device with Bluetooth 4.0 or later (i.e., a device that supports Bluetooth Smart Ready/Low Energy) is required.
c. The SnapBridge app is available for compatible iPhone®, iPad® and/or iPod touch®, and for smart devices running the AndroidTM operating system. The app can be downloaded free of charge from Apple’s App Store® and GooglePlayTM. SnapBridge can be used only with compatible cameras.

-Android™ and Google Play™ are trademarks of Google Inc.
-Wi-Fi® and the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo are registered trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance. The N Mark is a trademark or registered trademark of NFC Forum, Inc. in the United States and in other countries. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Nikon corporation and its Affiliates is under license.

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.
** At the maximum image size. The maximum zoom ratio varies by image size. Dynamic Fine Zoom magnification is calculated from the maximum wide-angle position of the optical zoom.

Nikon Nikkor Z 70-200 F2.8 VR S specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 70–200 mm
Image stabilization Yes
CIPA Image stabilization rating 5 stop(s)
Lens mount Nikon Z
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 21
Groups 18
Special elements / coatings ED, SR and aspherical elements + Nano Crystal and ARNEO coatings
Focus
Minimum focus 0.50 m (19.69)
Maximum magnification 0.2×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale Yes
Focus distance limiter Yes
Physical
Weight 1440 g (3.17 lb)
Diameter 89 mm (3.5)
Length 220 mm (8.66)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (internal)
Power zoom No
Filter thread 77 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar Yes

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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News: The Nikon D6 Will Be Released in February, With a 24 MP Sensor and Much More

14 Dec

The post News: The Nikon D6 Will Be Released in February, With a 24 MP Sensor and Much More appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

 

news-nikon-d6-release-date

The Nikon D6 has officially been in the pipeline since early September, when Nikon announced the development of its flagship action snapper.

But now we have a rumored release date:

February 12, 2020.

Whether the D6 will actually come out on February 12 isn’t certain (Nikon Rumors notes that this may be the date of an internal Nikon presentation), but it seems highly likely that the camera will be announced in February.

Note that this puts the D6 announcement close to the expected Canon 1D X Mark III release date (which is sometime in the first few months of 2020), and the potential announcement of the Canon EOS Rs (which is also in February of 2020).

While the D6 won’t be competing against any Rs-type camera, the Canon 1D X Mark III will be the D6’s direct competitor, forcing sports and action photographers across the world to make a tough choice between the Canon and Nikon flagships.

We already know that the Canon 1D X Mark III will feature 20 fps continuous shooting in Live View and 16 fps when using the viewfinder. Canon has also promised an upgraded autofocus system that sports enhanced tracking and improved low light AF capabilities.

As for the D6, while nothing official has been announced, we do have some updated specification rumors:

  • Upgraded IBIS from the Z-system
  • Upgraded silent shooting
  • Dual CFExpress card slots
  • 4K video at 60p
  • A 24 MP sensor
  • Enhanced dynamic range
  • Better autofocus, but with the same point count as the Nikon D5 (153 points, 99 cross-type)

While there is no official information on the Canon 1D X Mark III megapixel count, it’s likely that it will be close to 24 MP (and some rumors suggest it could be even higher), so Nikon D6 may not surpass the 1D X series in that area.

But I’m certainly looking forward to learning more about the new Nikon (and Canon) AF system, and equally excited about the continuous shooting speeds on the Nikon D6. Will it be able to match Canon’s 16 fps/20 fps combo? Or could it possibly surpass it?

If you’re a sports, action, or even wildlife shooter, I recommend you keep your eyes peeled for more news.

The Nikon D6 will almost certainly be here soon, hopefully with the features we all want to see!

What do you think? How will the Nikon D6 compare to the Canon 1D X Mark III? Are you excited about the Nikon D6 release? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Nikon-D6-release-date

The post News: The Nikon D6 Will Be Released in February, With a 24 MP Sensor and Much More appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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CIPA’s February 2019 report shows huge drop in global digital camera shipments

09 Apr

The Japanese Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) has published a new graph showing the number of cameras shipped in February 2019 and the figures aren’t reassuring. According to the association, sales were down from January 2019 and had substantially decreased compared with February 2018.

Global digital camera shipments in February 2019 came in at only 935,148 units compared to the 1,001,398 shipped in January 2019. This is a more than 30% decrease year-over-year, with January 2018 having seen 1,340,492 shipments and February 2018 having maintained a consistent rate at 1,340,995.

A decrease was experienced in the interchangeable lens camera market as well, dropping from 798,014 in February 2018 to 521,217 in February 2019. Both the February 2018 and 2019 shipment periods were lower than February 2017, which had 843,217 in global interchangeable lens camera shipments.

A similar, though not quite as dramatic, decrease in global built-in lens digital camera shipments was experienced in February 2019 compared to February 2018 at 413,931 units versus 542,981.

According to the CIPA data, global digital camera shipments remained very similar from January to February 2017 and increased slightly for those same months in 2018. The trend changed in 2019, with overall February shipments dipping a little more than 6% below January’s global shipment numbers.

The numbers are concerning due to the general decrease year-over-year, but also because the shipment numbers decreased during a time in the year when they previously remained relatively steady or began increasing. It’s yet to be seen whether March’s figures represent yet another decrease or if February’s shipment numbers end up being an unfortunate, concerning fluke.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Adobe Lightroom February update adds AI Enhance Details feature, HDR and HDR Panos

13 Feb

Adobe has updated Lightroom CC, Lightroom Classic CC, and Adobe Camera Raw with a new AI-powered feature called Enhance Details. The feature is made possible by Sensei, Adobe’s artificial intelligence and machine learning platform, and it works on nearly any raw image file to improve fine detail and color rendering, as well as resolving issues that some users with Fujifilm X-Trans cameras have reported.

The new Enhance Details feature utilizes a convolutional neural network (CNN) that was ‘extensively trained,’ according to Adobe, to deal with issues like zippering and false colors while improving the overall quality of fine details. The feature ‘works well’ on X-Trans and Bayer raw mosaic files, which can have their resolutions increased by up to 30%. Adobe digs into the technical details here.

An example panorama stitched together using the updated Lightroom CC application. Provided by Adobe.

In addition to the Enhance Details feature, Adobe has updated Lightroom CC for Windows and Mac with new HDR, Pano, and HDR Pano merge tools, histogram clipping indicators, and a Target Adjustment tool. The HDR and Pano features support both raw and non-raw images, though the company points out that merged raw files retail the adjustment benefits inherent to the file type.

A screenshot of HDR exposures ready to be stitched together into a panorama. Provided by Adobe.

The HDR and HDR Pano tools are best used with a camera’s auto exposure bracketing mode, which captures images with varying exposure. Lightroom automatically merges the images for HDR and, in the case of panoramas, automatically adjusts alignment and corrects distortion. These features are joined by the Target Adjust Tool for precisely controlling an image’s tonality and color, as well as the histogram clipping indicators.

As far as mobile is concerned, the update enables users to create ad-hoc photo shares on Lightroom CC for iOS. Finally, Lightroom Classic users received improved Nikon camera tethering stability and performance. The updates are available now.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CIPA: DSLRs outperformed mirrorless in February, compact cameras still tanking

03 Apr
Photo by Federico Bottos

The February CIPA report has been published, and overall, it’s still not a pretty picture for the digital camera industry. According to the Japanese agency, overall digital stills camera shipments worldwide were down 26.6% compared to the same month last year.

The CIPA report shows overall digital camera shipments remained flat—a 27% decrease compared to the same month last year.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that most of that drop is due (once again) to the demise of the compact camera.

If you break Interchangeable Lens Cameras (ILCs) out of that picture and into its own graph, the story gets a bit rosier. ILC shipments (that’s DSLR and Mirrorless combined) were down only 5.4% compared to the same month last year—DSLR sales by themselves actually eked up 0.1%, while mirrorless sales dropped by 15.8%—and outperformed February 2016 by 17.3%.

ILC shipments actually outperformed 2016, coming up only a few percent short of last year’s February report.

To get to that overall 26.6% drop, you have to account for the whopping 44.7% drop in compact camera shipments… a sad if not surprising figure. You can see each of the percentages—overall, compacts, ILCs total, DSLRs, and mirrorless—highlighted in the chart below:

This month’s shipment numbers compared to the same figures from last month.
From top to bottom: All Digital Cameras, Compacts only, all ILCs, DSLRs only, Mirrorless only.

Taken as a whole, a weak end to 2017 seems to have led into a weak beginning to 2018. But if you look at ILC numbers by themselves, the picture is a bit less bleak. Sure, 2017 still ended on a pretty sad slump compared to 2016, but February has seen a big jump over January where, in previous years, that line has stayed flat or even seen a decline.

If March outperforms February—as is usually the case—it could mean the ILC market, least, is stabilizing a bit. And if Canon and Nikon release full-frame mirrorless cameras sometime this year, we could even see 2018 outperform 2017. Of course, that’s all speculation for now, but we’ll be keeping a close eye on the numbers in the coming months.

In the meantime, if you want to dive deeper into shipment data by region, or see how camera production did in February (DSLRs up 4%, Mirrorless down 11%), head over to the CIPA website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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