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Posts Tagged ‘brings’

‘Deep Nostalgia’ AI tech animates old photos and brings them to life

01 Mar

The online genealogy company MyHeritage has launched a new AI-powered service, Deep Nostalgia. This new service animates family photos (or other photos, as we’ll see) to allow users to ‘experience your family history like never before.’

Deep Nostalgia uses AI licensed from D-ID to turn still images into animated photos like the Live Photos feature in iOS portraits in the ‘Harry Potter’ films. Deep Nostalgia relies upon videos of facial animations, which the AI then applies to a still image. For example, an old black and white portrait of a man looking off-camera comes to life, with the subject moving his head, blinking and smiling at the camera.

MyHeritage prepared several drivers for Deep Nostalgia, which are then applied to a face in a still photo. You can animate all the faces in a photo, such as in a family portrait, although a separate animation must be created for each face. The technology automatically selects an animation sequence for a face, but users can select a different sequence as well. The animation sequences are based on genuine human gestures. Different MyHeritage employees are the foundation for many of the animation sequences.

To try Deep Nostalgia for yourself, you must sign up for a free MyHeritage account. Once you sign up, you can begin uploading images, which are animated and turned into a GIF. If you don’t do the full signup process, MyHeritage states that any images you upload will be deleted automatically to protect the user’s privacy. If you are uploading small or blurry images, MyHeritage’s Photo Enhancer will enhance your photos before the animation is applied, as Deep Heritage requires a high-resolution face.

It’s a neat idea to be able to bring old photos back to life. For many, their only connection to family members featured in old photographs is the image itself. They may never have seen them in person. In many cases, including those shared by different users on Twitter, Deep Nostalgia produces pretty impressive results.

As pointed out by The Verge, not everyone is using the service to add life-like qualities to antiquated family photos. Twitter user Flint Dibble opted instead to upload photos of statues from the Acropolis Museum in Athens. If you’ve ever wanted to see a statue of Alexander the Great move and blink, now you can. As Kim Lyons of The Verge asks, ‘I wonder if perhaps there are some photos best left un-animated?’

Jokes aside, Deep Nostalgia is a fascinating technology that can create impressive results. Photographs are the lasting connection we collectively have to our past. When our photos are of lost loved ones, the images take on a much deeper meaning. For some, seeing someone blink and smile again may feel morbid or odd, but it may be a special experience for others.

As MyHeritage writes, ‘Some people love the Deep Nostalgia feature and consider it magical, while others find it creepy and dislike it. Indeed, the results can be controversial, and it’s hard to stay indifferent to this technology.’ To try it for yourself, head over to MyHeritage.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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MonsterAdapter’s new LA-KE1 adapter brings autofocus, aperture control to Pentax K-mount lenses on Sony E-mount cameras

25 Nov

MonsterAdapter, a relatively new player in the lens adapter game, has revealed the details of the LA-KE1, a new adapter that will make it possible to mount Pentax K-mount glass to Sony E-mount mirrorless camera systems.

There isn’t much information available about MonsterAdapter. The company’s Facebook page, which appears to be its only online presence, was created on May 20, 2020, when the company announced the development of the LA-EA4r, a modified version of Sony’s LA-EA4 adapter that expanded functionality and support. MonsterAdapters has since released another adapter, the LA-VE1, which makes it possible to adapt Minolta Vectis V-mount lenses to Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras.

Now, the company is promoting its forthcoming LA-KE1, which it claims is the ‘first of its kind in the world.’ The adapter offers full autofocus, aperture control and EXIF data transfer for Pentax K-mount lenses (KAF, KAF2, KAF3 and KAF4) to Sony E-mount cameras. The adapter uses a pair of motors for turning the screw-drive autofocus in older K-mount lenses.

This not only brings the ability to shoot with Pentax lenses to Sony E-mount cameras, but also enables many of Sony’s AI-assisted focusing modes to be used with the Pentax lenses, new and old. MonsterAdapter says the exact functionality will vary depending on what camera you’re using — noting a more powerful camera likely means more features — but both Human and Animal Eye-AF focus modes should be able to work on adapted glass.

MonsterAdapter also notes that due to the limits of screw-drive lenses, this adapter is best suited for still photographs—not video. In addition to the images of the prototype adapter in this article, SonyAlphaRumors has also shared a hands-on video demonstration of it in action:

No price is given for the LA-KE1 adapter, but it is set to ‘hit the market within this year,’ according to the company’s announcement post. You can keep up with the latest news on MonsterAdapter’s Facebook page.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon brings its macOS EOS Webcam Utility out of beta and updates Windows version to 1.1

13 Nov

Canon has announced a full production version (1.0) of its EOS Webcam Utility software for macOS and a version 1.1 update for Windows computers.

Less than a week after Nikon announced its webcam utility was out of beta, Canon has done the same. Canon says its beta program has been downloaded more than one million times around the world and with this new update comes new support for a total of 43 compatible EOS interchangeable lens and PowerShot cameras. Below is a complete list of the cameras currently supported:

  • EOS 1DX Mark III
  • EOS 1DX Mark II
  • EOS 1DX
  • EOS 1D C
  • EOS 5DS R
  • EOS 5DS
  • EOS 5D Mark IV
  • EOS 5D Mark III
  • EOS 5D Mark II
  • EOS 6D
  • EOS 7D Mark II
  • EOS 7D
  • EOS 90D
  • EOS 80D
  • EOS 77D
  • EOS 70D
  • EOS 60D
  • EOS Rebel T8i
  • EOS Rebel T7i
  • EOS Rebel T6s
  • EOS Rebel T6i
  • EOS Rebel T5i
  • EOS Rebel T3i
  • EOS Revel SL3
  • EOS Rebel SL2
  • EOS Rebel SL1
  • EOS Rebel T7
  • EOS Rebel T6
  • EOS Rebel T3
  • EOS Rebel T100
  • EOS R5
  • EOS R6
  • EOS R1
  • EOS R
  • EOS RP
  • EOS M6 Mark II
  • EOS M50 Mark II
  • EOS M50
  • EOS M200
  • PowerShot G5X Mark II
  • PowerShot G7X Mark III
  • PowerShot SX70 HS

Canon has also improved compatibility with third-party videoconferencing and streaming programs. Canon says its EOS Webcam Utility has been tested and confirmed to work with the following programs:

  • Apple Facetime
  • Cisco Webex
  • Discord
  • Facebook Live
  • Facebook Messenger
  • Google Hangouts
  • Google Hangouts Meet
  • Microsoft Teams
  • OBS
  • Skype
  • Slack
  • Streamlabs OBS
  • YouTube Live
  • Zoom

Below are two guides from Canon on how to get started with using your Canon camera as a webcam input on macOS and Windows computers:

Canon says it will ‘continue to lean on customers [and] listen to the market’ to improve the utility going forward. You can download EOS Webcam Utility version 1.0 for macOS and version 1.1 for Windows computer on Canon’s website. If you have questions, comments or complaints, Canon has opened up a new forum specifically for discussing its webcam utility.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon brings its Webcam Utility out of beta, adds support for macOS computers

05 Nov

Nikon has released the first non-beta version of its free webcam utility for macOS and Windows computers.

Back in July, Nikon announced it was working on a webcam utility that would turned select Nikon cameras into webcams with compatible videoconferencing and streaming software. In August, they followed through on that promise with the release of a beta utility for Windows 10 users. Nikon confirmed a macOS version was on the way, but that has yet to be seen—until today.

In addition to being the first non-beta version of the app for Windows 10 users, Webcam Utility Software version 1.0.0 is also available for macOS computers.

As with previous versions of the software, all you need is a compatible Nikon camera, a USB cable for plugging the camera into your computer and a videoconferencing or streaming app that supports external webcams, such as Facebook Messenger, Google Meet, Skype, Zoom, OBS and others. Below is a full list of compatible cameras:

  • Z7
  • Z6
  • Z5
  • Z50
  • D6
  • D850
  • D780
  • D500
  • D7500
  • D5600

You can download Nikon’s Webcam Utility Software version 1.0.0 for macOS and Windows 10 computers on Nikon’s website. Additional information and a full list of compatibility notes can also be found on Nikon’s website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Adobe gives Photoshop 2021 even more Sensei AI power, brings livestreaming to Photoshop for iPad

20 Oct

As part of Adobe MAX 2020, which is virtual (and free to attend) this year, Adobe has announced the latest updates to the Adobe Photoshop family. Artificial intelligence and Adobe Sensei play a major role in today’s updates, which are now available for all subscribers.

Adobe Photoshop 2021

Adobe calls Photoshop 2021, also known as version 22.0, the ‘world’s most advanced AI application for creatives,’ so let’s see what’s new. The primary new features are Neural Filters, Sky Replacement, improved Refine Edge Selections and the all-new Discover panel.

The Neural Filters workspace is a ‘complete reimagination of filters and image manipulation inside Photoshop.’ The first version includes a large set of filters, some of which are still in a beta state. Adobe wants to get as many of them into the hands of users for testing. The Neural Filters workspace offers users access to non-destructive filters including Skin Smoothing, Smart Portrait and more. Smart Portrait allows you to transform a portrait subject along parameters such as age, expression, pose and more. AI analyzes the portrait to allow you to change aspects of your subject’s features, such as changing the direction of the subject’s head, gaze and the intensity of their smile. As you can see below, you can even adjust the direction of light in an image.

In this image, the light direction slider within Adobe’s new Neural Filters was moved from left to right. As Adobe’s Pam Clark notes, finishing touches can be easily applied within Photoshop. Image credit: Adobe

In addition to making AI-powered adjustments to portraits, Neural Filters also includes features to help repair damaged images, including Photo Restoration, Dust and Scratches, Noise Reduction, Face Cleanup, JPEG Artifacts Restoration and even a Neural Filter for colorizing a black and white image, a task which takes a considerable amount of skill and time to perform manually. You can learn more about how Neural Filters works and how they can be used in your workflow by visiting Adobe’s dedicated webpage.

Adobe’s new Sky Replacement feature includes numerous user controls when changing the sky, such as brightness and temperature. You can see the new workspace by enlarging this image. Image credit: Adobe

Moving on to Sky Replacement. Using the power of AI, Photoshop can analyze your image to detect what areas of your image are foreground versus sky and then perform masking and blending in order to realistically change the sky in your image. You can select from Photoshop’s database of skies or add your own. There are creative controls as well, including the ability to zoom in and select a portion of the sky and move the sky around the scene. Today’s Photoshop release includes around 25 sky presets. You can learn more about Sky Replacement in this article and by watching the video below.

It seems every major release of Photoshop includes substantive improvements to making selections in your images and the latest release is no different. Adobe Sensei is powering a pair of new features in the Select and Mask workspace: Refine Hair and Object Aware Refine Mode.

Making selections of hair has long been challenging, but Sensei now allows you to leverage its power to refine a selection incorporating hair in a single click. Similarly, Object Aware Refine Mode uses the power of AI to make even more precise, informed selections of portions of your image. Consider the example image below of a selection of the hair in the lion’s mane. It’s an impressive selection that was performed in only a few seconds.

Image credit: Adobe

Photoshop’s new Discover panel includes a brand-new learn and search experience. Within Photoshop, you can quickly access an expanded library of educational content, new step-by-step tutorials, and a vastly improved search functionality. AI makes context-aware recommendations based on your work, including tips and tutorials. There are new one-click Quick Actions that allow you to instantly perform certain tasks when you’re in a rush or teach you how to do the task for yourself step by step.

Photoshop 2021 includes an all-new Discover panel. Image credit: Adobe

Photoshop also includes Pattern Preview and shape creation features. Pattern Preview is a special view mode that allows you to view how your document would look as a pattern. Creating and adjusting shapes on the fly is now easier. There’s a new tool to create triangles and on-canvas controls to resize and adjust shapes.

Pattern preview is new to Photoshop 2021. Image credit: Adobe

Further improvements include enhancements to the Properties Panels and major revisions to how you access plug-ins within Photoshop. There’s a new plugins marketplace within the application where you’ll find curated collections in addition to the wide array of plugins and integrations on offer for Photoshop. Adobe has also integrated UXP to Photoshop. UXP is its new extensibility platform for building plugins.

This plugin architecture results in improved reliability and performance for plugins. There are already plugins built on UXP available in Photoshop. These include plugins to connect Photoshop with apps and services such as Dropbox, Trello and Slack. Plus, there are image editing plugins from photographers such as Tony Kuyper, Greg Benz and Davide Barranca.

It’s now easier to find plugins in Photoshop. Plus, plugins built on the UXP platform will be even more stable and faster. Image credit: Adobe

On the topic of connectedness, when working on a cloud document inside Photoshop, versions are now automatically created, allowing you to look back or revert to prior states. Within Photoshop, it’s now possible to view, revert, open, save as and rename save states within the version history. Cloud documents are also now available offline.

When working on cloud documents, you can now access a file’s version history. Image credit: Adobe

For the full breakdown of everything new in version 22.0 of Photoshop on desktop, click here. Now, there have also been specific new functions added to Photoshop on iPad.

Photoshop for iPad

When using Photoshop on iPad, you can now change the dimensions, resolution and sampling of a PSD file, matching what you can do with a PSD file on the desktop version of Photoshop. You can learn more about this function by clicking here.

It’s now possible to live stream from within Photoshop on iPad. You can use the tablet’s built-in camera and mic to communicate with viewers as well. Image credit: Adobe

Within Photoshop on iPad, users can now start a live stream via the Export menu. You can use the iPad’s built-in camera to interact with members of Adobe Behance. Live streams are sent to Behance automatically and Adobe will be moderating and posting selected recordings in the gallery on Behance and within the Photoshop on iPad app directly. There is also a new Behance Gallery within the app. This lets you view the work of others, watch live streams (including recordings), browse through Behance projects and share your own work. You can learn more by clicking here: Live streaming and gallery.

As you can see, there’s a lot new in Photoshop. You can learn more about all the new features and find links to additional information by reading this Adobe blog post.

This Friday, October 23, Terry White will be hosting a live stream at 11:00 AM ET in which he discusses all the new features of Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop for photographers. You can learn more about this live stream and set a reminder by clicking here. If you’d like to take part in Adobe MAX 2020, alongside more than 500,000 other registrants, you can sign up for different live events right here. There are a ton of great guests scheduled to appear this week, including celebrities such as Conan O’Brien, Chelsea Handler and Zendaya. Over the next three days, there are over 350 sessions, labs and creativity workshops, so be sure to check them out, it’s completely free to attend.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony brings its Imaging Edge Webcam utility to macOS, updates Windows version

16 Oct

Sony has announced the release of a macOS version of its Imaging Edge Webcam utility as well as an update for the Windows version.

Back in August, Sony followed in the footsteps of other manufacturers with the announcement of Imaging Edge Webcam, a utility that turned three dozen Sony cameras into webcams without the need of a capture card. At the time, the utility was Windows-only, but it’s now available for macOS.

Much like the Windows version, the macOS version (1.0) makes it easy to turn one of the following Sony camera systems into a dedicated webcam by simply connecting it over USB:

?: E-mount?ILCE-?

  • ILCE-7M2
  • ILCE-7M3
  • ILCE-7RM2
  • ILCE-7RM3
  • ILCE-7RM4
  • ILCE-7S
  • ILCE-7SM2
  • ILCE-7SM3
  • ILCE-9
  • ILCE-9M2
  • ILCE-5100
  • ILCE-6100
  • ILCE-6300
  • ILCE-6400
  • ILCE-6500
  • ILCE-6600

?: A-mount?ILCA-?

  • ILCA-77M2
  • ILCA-99M2
  • ILCA-68

Digital Still Camera?DSC-/Vlog camera)

  • DSC-HX95
  • DSC-HX99
  • DSC-RX0
  • DSC-RX0M2
  • DSC-RX100M4
  • DSC-RX100M5
  • DSC-RX100M5A
  • DSC-RX100M6
  • DSC-RX100M7
  • DSC-RX10M2
  • DSC-RX10M3
  • DSC-RX10M4
  • DSC-RX1RM2
  • DSC-WX700
  • DSC-WX800
  • ZV-1

The Windows version has also received a 1.1 update. No specific changes were mentioned, but it’s safe to assume there were a number of bugs dealt with.

You can download both the macOS (1.0) and Windows (1.1) versions of Imaging Edge Webcam from Sony’s website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The new Canon EOS M50 Mark II brings autofocus and video refinements

14 Oct

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Canon has just announced the EOS M50 Mark II, a relatively minor update to one of its most popular mirrorless models. The M50 Mark II shares the same 24MP APS-C sensor with its predecessor, and the same Digic 8 image processor. The Dual Pixel autofocus system has been updated to allow for eye tracking in both stills and video, and users can now capture vertical video and stream to YouTube Live over a smartphone internet connection.

The rest of the camera’s specs are largely unchanged. Video tops out at 4K/24p with a heavy 1.5x crop, and autofocus in 4K is contrast-detect only. Full HD comes with Dual Pixel autofocus, and you can capture slow-motion up to 120p. On the stills side, a new electronic shutter option is available and burst speeds top out at 7.4fps with continuous autofocus. The camera is CIPA-rated to capture 305 images on a charge, but of course, you can expect much more in general use.

The EOS M50 Mark II will be available in late November 2020 for $ 599 USD body-only, $ 699 USD as a kit with the 15-45mm F3.5-6.3, and $ 929 USD as a kit with the 15-45mm and 55-200mm F4.5-6.3 lenses.

Press release:

Improved eye autofocus paired with new video and streaming functions make the new Canon EOS M50 Mark II camera a strong imaging tool for content creators and imaging storytellers

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 14, 2020 –– Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the EOS M50 Mark II Interchangeable Lens Camera, the successor to the #1 selling mirrorless camera in the U.S. market – the EOS M50*. An all-in-one product for content creators with improved video features and autofocus capabilities, the EOS M50 Mark II is the latest, high-quality digital imaging camera in the notable EOS lineup.

“Our customer base includes future content creators and imaging storytellers; it’s in our best interest to continuously provide high-quality products that are easy to use in the creative world of photography and video content creation, as well as streaming,” said Tatsuro “Tony” Kano, executive vice president and general manager of the Canon U.S.A., Inc. Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “The EOS M50 Mark II continues to pave the way for photography and video enthusiasts to experience a lightweight interchangeable lens camera with many similar features as our full-frame professional mirrorless cameras.”

For the family who strives for high-quality output when capturing their precious moments or for the budding social media creator, the added and improved capabilities of the EOS M50 Mark II camera make the upgrade to an ILC extremely appealing. The new features include:

  • Improved autofocus including eye autofocus for stills and video
  • Vertical video shooting support
  • Vari-angle touchscreen LCD with newly added tap video record button and movie self-timer for better vlogging experience
  • High quality webcam capability, when used with compatible services, with the free EOS Webcam Utility software or Clean HDMI output
  • Wireless YouTube Live streaming capability**
  • The ability to tap the screen to auto focus on your subject while looking through the EVF, helping to control who the main focus of the image is

The EOS M50 Mark II camera is inclusive of many of the beloved features of its predecessor. Overall, the EOS M50 Mark II is a well-balanced package deal for those interested in both still photography and videography – including those with sparks of social media content creation, thanks to the 4K UHD 24p. Providing a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, DIGIC 8 image processor and built in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® technology, as well as access to image.canon cloud service for better workflow, the EOS M50 Mark II camera remains compact and a lightweight addition to your carry bag.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II camera is scheduled to be available in Late November 2020 at an estimated retail price of $ 599.99 – body only, $ 699.99 for the camera body plus EF-M 15-45mm lens kit and $ 929.99 for the camera body plus EF-M 15-45mm and EF-M55-200mm double zoom lens kit.

* Source: The NPD Group, Inc. U.S. Retail Tracking Service, Mirrorless Detachable Lens Cameras, Based on camera family unit sales, Jan. 2020 – Aug. 2020 combined.

** The live streaming service available with this product is for live streaming on YouTube only. To use live streaming, you need to have an active YouTube account and an image.canon account. Please be aware that YouTube may change, stop, or terminate its services, including live streaming, at any time without notice. In accordance with YouTube’s “Restrictions on live streaming” users must have a minimum of 1,000 channel subscribers in order to live stream from a mobile device (including camera products with live streaming capability). For up-to-date information from YouTube on restrictions, please visit https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/2853834?hl=en. Canon makes no representations or warranties with respect to any third party product or service, including live streaming.

Canon EOS M50 II specifications

Price
MSRP $ 599 (body only), $ 699 (w/15-45mm lens), $ 929 (w/15-45 and 55-200mm lenses)
Body type
Body type SLR-style mirrorless
Body material Composite
Sensor
Max resolution 6000 x 4000
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 24 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 26 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (22.3 x 14.9 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Digic 8
Color space sRGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
Boosted ISO (maximum) 51200
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.31)
  • Raw (Canon CR3 14-bit)
  • C-Raw (Canon .CR3)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 143
Lens mount Canon EF-M
Focal length multiplier 1.6×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 1,040,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder resolution 2,360,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash Yes
Flash range 5.00 m (at ISO 100)
External flash Yes
Flash modes Evaluative (face priority), Evaluative, Average
Flash X sync speed 1/200 sec
Drive modes
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Self-timer
Continuous drive 10.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 10 secs, custom)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±2 (3 frames at 1/3 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 120 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 30 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 120p / 52 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 26 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC slot (UHS-I compatible)
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
USB charging No
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description LP-E12 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 305
Weight (inc. batteries) 387 g (0.85 lb / 13.65 oz)
Dimensions 116 x 88 x 59 mm (4.57 x 3.46 x 2.32″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Negative Lab Pro 2.2 update brings rebuilt engine, new tools, LUT-based emulations and more to Lightroom

10 Oct

Negative conversion tool Negative Lab Pro has released a version 2.2 update it calls ‘the most rigorously developed update’ to date, bringing with it a ‘new engine, easier editing tools, and breathtaking color and tone reproduction’

For those unfamiliar with Negative Lab Pro, it’s a plug-in for Lightroom 6 and Lightroom Classic that adds a specific toolset and workflow for converting negative film scans. It rids the need for hand-editing curves and manually accounting for scan densities, making it easy to go from scan to final image in a matter of minutes through its own graphic interface within Lightroom. Below is a year-old introduction to how Negative Lab Pro works:

With that out of the way, let’s get on to the new features Negative Lab Pro 2.2 brings to the table.

First up, Negative Lab Pro 2.2 features an entirely rebuilt engine that ensures the entire workflow can be done with Raw file formats and is non-destructive. Now, rather than there being multiple layers of adjustments atop the image, all conversions and adjustments are made directly to the Raw negative scan (if you convert the scanned negative into a Raw file format upon import). In theory, this should mean there isn’t any loss of quality when multiple adjustments are made on top of one another.

A screen recording showing how the curves will intelligently adjust based on the adjustments made to scans.

The new engine also features what its developer calls ‘Multilayer Auto-Generating Integrated Curves,’ which is a fancy way of saying the plug-in is able to intelligently adjust the curves to preserve the tonality and scans as adjustments are made. Negative Lab Pro developer Nate Johnson provides an explanation for how this new technology works:

‘The new engine has its own processing pipeline with 9 internal processing layers working together seamlessly under the hood. Internally, I can define, order and combine each layer in the way that makes the most sense for film processing. For instance, color balancing happens earliest in the pipeline, so your color balance remains stable even if you drastically adjust your tones. Negative Lab Pro then auto-generates up to 42 curve points in real time (14 integrated points for each color channel), which are then fed directly into Lightroom’s curve control.’

Put simply, this new development should result in ‘purer tones and colors’ in your negatives, even as adjustments are applied.

Another benefit of the redesigned engine is improved color stability. Now, adjustments made to the image — such as contrast, brightness and more — won’t affect the color balance of an image. Nate demonstrates in the comparison images below the difference between Negative Lab Pro version 2.1 and version 2.2 when making changes to contrast:

A collection of new tools have also been added to Negative Lab Pro 2.2, including film-specific color temperature and tint sliders, a new color picker, range control for highlights and shadows, and new tone profile families, which provide different baselines for getting started with editing your scans.

The integrated temp/tint sliders that use the new 2.2 engine.

If you’re using Negative Lab Pro 2.2 with Lightroom Classic, the update also adds new LUT-based emulations. Unlike Adobe Lightroom 6, Lightroom Classic has integrated 3D Lookup Tables. This capabilities allows the new LUT-based emulations to make ‘incredibly nuanced adjustments to color and tone reproduction,’ which should result in more accurate film stock emulations.

The best part is, in the case of most scans edited with previous versions of Negative Lab Pro should automatically be converted to the rebuilt engine in version 2.2. So, unless you want to make more precise edits with the new engine, you shouldn’t have to go back and manually re-edit all of your scans.

Negative Lab Pro version 2.2 is free for anyone who currently has a license. If you’re trying out Negative Lab Pro for the first time, you will be able to convert 12 images for free before you’re required to purchase a license.

Negative Lab Pro 2.2 is available to purchase for $ 99. The plug-in receives consistent updates and to date, all past updates have been free so long as you own a license. Nate does note, however, that at some point there may be paid updates or extras available for purchase.

You can find out more information about Negative Labs 2.2 in Nate’s incredibly comprehensive update post. on the Negative Lab Pro forums.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Photo software Exposure X6 brings 3x faster processing and a host of new auto adjustments

08 Oct

The Exposure photo editing software application, that was formerly Alien Skin, has been updated with enhanced GPU optimization that allows some oft-used functions to run at three times the speed. Exposure X6 also introduces a collection of new automated adjustments that aim to make image processing simpler and to save photographers time.

Available as a standalone application or a plug-in for Adobe’s Photoshop and Lightroom, Exposure X6 introduces Auto White Balance, Auto Exposure, Auto Haze Level, Auto Dynamic Contrast and Auto Tone for creating one-click fixes for common problems. Tonal and contrast adjustments are said to avoid shifts in color saturation and hue, and the Auto White Balance adjustment is based on camera metadata. The sensor used is also taken into account in the new noise reduction feature, along with information about the ISO setting and an estimate of likely electronic noise.

Before and after examples of the new Color Editor tool that allows colors to be selected and replaced. Changes can be saved as a preset to apply to further images

A new Color Editor allows users to select and replace specific selected colors, and to make multiple color changes within the same image. These changes can be mapped and saved as presets to be used in further images so sets of pictures can have consistent adjustments made.

Exposure X6 is available for download now, and costs $ 119. If you bought Exposure X5 on or after July 15th 2020 your upgrade will be free, and those who bought it before that, and users of previous versions, can upgrade for $ 89. For more information, and a free 30-day trial, visit the Exposure website.

Press release

Exposure Software Announces Exposure X6, Image Editing Software for Creative Photographers

Exposure X6 features dramatic speed improvement, one-click automatic adjustments, advanced color replacement, innovative shadow/highlight and noise reduction processing, and more

Exposure Software, formerly known as Alien Skin Software, today announced the release of Exposure X6, the newest version of their award-winning RAW photo editor for creative photographers. Exposure is a standalone image editor that handles a full photography workflow. It includes plug-in support that enables Exposure’s advanced editing and creative effects in Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

New in Exposure X6 is advanced GPU optimization, which dramatically speeds up image processing. GPU support works in concert with Exposure’s existing multi-core optimization to enable Exposure to leverage the full power of modern computer hardware. Many frequently used editing operations have been sped up by a factor of three on typical GPU hardware. This improved performance enables editing at greatly improved speeds, reducing distraction so photographers can focus on creativity.

“The introduction of GPU support in Exposure X6 enabled us to achieve amazing speed and image processing quality improvements,” said Finley Lee, CEO of Exposure Software. “This further advances our goal of making Exposure the best available image editor for creative photography.”

New automatic adjustments select optimized values for the most frequently used controls in a single click, freeing time for creative editing. They can even be applied in batch to significantly ease the time spent editing large photoshoots. Exposure’s new automatic adjustments include the following:

  • Auto White Balance adjusts white balance based on camera metadata. Corrects for tungsten, artificial, shade, and sunlight illuminant scenes.
  • Auto Exposure sets image exposure for both under and overexposed images.
  • Auto Haze Level changes the level of atmospheric haze present in the image. This is particularly useful for backlit subjects and images shot into the sun.
  • Auto Dynamic Contrast lowers and raises the overall image contrast without changing saturation or hue.
  • Auto Tone sets values for Blacks, Shadows, Highlights, and Whites sliders that affect overall image tone.

Using an innovative tonal-zone approach, Exposure’s redesigned shadows and highlights controls are more reliable, consistent, and accurate. These intuitive controls are particularly adept at recovering lost details in the highlight and shadow areas. The adjustments are applied intelligently to prevent unwanted color casts or hue shifts. They are exceptionally well-suited in preserving high or low key scenes.

Exposure’s new profile guided noise reduction capability reduces noise based on camera sensor characteristics, ISO, and estimated electronic noise. Luminance and chrominance noise can be reduced independently. The smoothing option applies an adaptive noise-sensitive algorithm which preserves sharp edges while further reducing noise.

The new Advanced Color Editor builds on Exposure’s innovative 3D color masking to enable vastly greater control of color modifications. For example, a model’s blue dress can be changed to red in just a few clicks. Photographers can select source and target colors based on luminance, hue, and saturation attributes. It is even possible to select multiple color replacement mappings and save them as a preset to be reused.

  • Additional enhancements to Exposure include the following:
  • Updated user interface provides a refined, modern aesthetic
  • New haze level slider, for counteracting the decrease in contrast caused by atmospheric haze. It can also add haze as a creative effect.
  • Customization of the hue and opacity of the selection mask overlay.
  • Optional black background for the mask to view selected pixels without distraction.
  • Optional luminance or saturation background for the selection mask, which helps visualize the mask region when adjusting luminance or saturation constraints.
  • DNG converter integration enables conversion of RAW photos to DNG format using Adobe’s DNG Converter software. Conversion can be performed automatically when copying photos from a camera card, or manually invoked from a photo’s thumbnail view.

About Exposure
Exposure began in 2005 as a film simulation plug-in for Photoshop, and was immediately embraced by digital photographers of all genres seeking to recapture the organic look of film. Over the years, Exposure became a legend among plug-ins, and evolved into a standalone full-featured editing and organizing solution for creative photographers.

Pricing and Availability
Exposure X6 is available now from https://exposure.software for $ 119. Upgrade pricing is available to owners of previous versions of Exposure for $ 89. Additionally, anyone who purchased Exposure X5 on or after July 15, 2020 will automatically receive a free upgrade to Exposure X6.

Exposure X6 is also available in the Exposure X6 Bundle. This integrated collection combines Exposure with Exposure Software’s award-winning Blow Up and Snap Art tools to add high-quality upsizing and natural media special effects. It is available for $ 149. Owners of one or more of the current apps in the Exposure X6 Bundle can purchase for $ 99.

A 30-day fully-featured free trial of Exposure is available. Visit https://exposure.software to learn more and download the trial.

Host Requirements
Exposure X6 may be used as a standalone program or as a set of plug-ins. When used as a set of plug-ins, it requires one of the following host applications:
* Adobe Photoshop CS6 or Adobe Photoshop CC 2015 or newer
* Adobe Lightroom 6 or Adobe Lightroom CC 2015 or newer

System Requirements

Mac
* OS X 10.11 El Capitan or newer
* Intel Core 2 processor or newer
* Monitor with 1280 x 768 resolution or greater
* 8GB RAM minimum, 16GB recommended
* For GPU support, a recent (2015 or later) Metal compatible GPU with 2GB RAM is recommended

Windows
* Windows 10 64-bit or newer
* Intel Core 2 processor or newer
* Monitor with 1280 x 768 resolution or greater
* 8GB RAM minimum, 16GB recommended
* For GPU support, a recent (2015 or later) OpenCL compatible GPU with 2GB RAM is recommended

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Venus Optics brings its Laowa 9mm T2.9, 12mm T2.9 and 15mm T2.1 cine primes to Canon RF mount

28 Sep

Venus Optics has announced it’s now adding a Canon RF lens mount option for three of its ultra-wide cinema primes: the 9mm T2.9 ‘Zero-D’ lens, 12mm T2.9 ‘Zero-D’ lens and 15mm T2.1 ‘Zero-D.’

The 12mm T2.9 ‘Zero-D’ lens was released back in January of this year, while the 9mm T2.9 and 15mm T2.1 ‘Zero-D’ lenses were announced back in June of this year. At the time, the lenses were only available for Sony E, Canon EF and PL mount, but owners of Canon’s EOS R series mirrorless cameras can now get native versions of the lenses, negating the need to use the EF version with the EF-RF adapter.

Photo Credit: Photo by Phil Holland, provided by Venus Optics

As part of the Loawa Zero-D’ line, all three lenses offer ‘close-to-zero’ distortion. All three lenses also feature industry standard 0.8 mod pitch gears for controlling both the aperture and focus.

As a quick refresher, below are specification summaries for each of the lenses:

9mm T2.9 ‘Zero-D’ lens

The 9mm T2.9 is constructed of 15 elements in 10 groups, has a minimum focusing distance of 12cm (4.72”), uses a seven-blade aperture diaphragm and weighs 247g (8.71oz).

12mm T2.9 ‘Zero-D’ lens

The 12mm T2.9 is constructed of 16 elements in 10 groups, has a minimum focusing distance of 18cm (7.09”), uses a seven-blade aperture diaphragm and weighs 675g (1.5lbs).

15mm T2.1 ‘Zero-D’ lens

The 15mm T2.1 is constructed of 12 elements in 9 groups, has a minimum focusing distance of 15cm (5.91”), uses a seven-blade aperture diaphragm and weighs 540g (1.19lbs).

All three lenses are available to purchase with the Canon RF mount starting today on Laowa’s online shop. The 9mm T2.9, 12mm T2.9 and 15mm T2.1 retail for $ 600, $ 1,500 and $ 1,200, respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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