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Posts Tagged ‘expands’

PolarPro expands into pro market with new QuartzLine camera filters

11 Apr

Lens filter manufacturer PolarPro is breaking into the professional lens filter market this week with the launch of its new QuartzLine Camera Filters for DSLRs, mirrorless and cinema cameras.

As the name suggests, PolarPro’s new filters are made of 99.9% pure fused quartz wrapped inside a brass frame. PolarPro says the use of quartz sets, “a new bar for light transmission and purity as the rare, fused quartz element delivers an extremely low refractive index compared to traditional filters.”

PolarPro QuartzLine ND Filter

QuartzLine Filters will be offered in ultraviolet, circular polarizing and multiple neutral density varieties. They come in 37mm, 46mm, 67mm, 77mm and 82mm thread sizes, with optional step-up rings available. Below is the entire collection of filter options and step-up ring sizes:

  • Filter Options: UV, CP, ND8, ND8/PL, ND16, ND16/PL, ND64, ND64/PL, ND1000, ND1000/PL, ND100000
  • Step-up Ring Options:
    • Step 52mm, 55mm and 58mm lens to 67mm filter
    • Step 62mm, 67mm and 72mm to a 77mm filter
    • Step 62mm, 67mm, 72mm and 77mm lens to an 82mm filter

PolarPro has also released a pair of Kanga Camera Filter Cases to keep either three or six filters safe and sound when traveling. They feature a soft microfiber lining and a magnetic opening for quick and quiet access. Like PolarPro’s filters, these come with a lifetime warranty.

PolarPro’s QuartzLine filters start at $ 60 and go up to $ 250, depending on the size and filter style. The three- and six-filter Kanga Camera Filter Cases retail for $ 40 and $ 50, respectively. You can find the full lineup of filters and cases on PolarPro’s website.

Press Release

PolarPro Leaps into Professional Lens Filter Market with Launch of QuartzLine Filters

PolarPro, long-trusted for its high-quality action camera and drone lens filters will bring new industry-leading glass to professional photographers and cinematographers with the full frame QuartzLine Filters.

Costa Mesa, C.A. – April 9, 2018 – PolarPro, developer of products inspired by adventure, announced today it is expanding its line of lens filters to professional photography and cinematography cameras. Well known for its industry-leading action camera and drone filters, PolarPro is continuing its tradition of quality with the new professional-focused QuartzLine Camera Filters for DSLRs, mirrorless and cinema cameras. The QuartzLine Filters range from $ 59.99 to $ 249.99 depending on size and filter style, for more information and specific pricing on the new PolarPro QuartzLine Lens Filters, please visit us here.

Constructed of 99.9% pure fused quartz, the QuartzLine Filters set a new bar for light transmission and purity as the rare, fused quartz element delivers an extremely low refractive index compared to traditional filters. A new optical coating method reduces surface reflectivity to less than one percent and increases surface hardness, all while maintaining a perfectly neutral color profile. The QuartzLine Filters will offer circular threaded UV, polarizers and neutral density filters from ND8 to ND100K, as well as hybrid single element ND/polarizing lens filters ranging from ND4/PL to ND1000/PL. With the filters running from 37mm, 46mm, 67mm, 72mm and 82mm, and an optional assortment of step-up rings, these stunning new optics will help adventure seeking creators capture perfection. All QuartzLine Filters can also be paired with PolarPro’s rugged construction Kanga Camera Filter Case to ensure they can go anywhere.

“As we have worked to establish PolarPro as the preferred option for drone cinematographers, we’ve also been working behind the scenes to make the QuartzLine Filters into an extremely precise and consistent filter for professional photo and video creators,” said Austen Butler, Co-Founder of PolarPro. “With QuartzLine, we wanted to create a rugged camera filter in line with our obsession over image quality. After testing 29 different materials we landed on a fused quartz glass element, with hyper neutral coatings to reduce reflectivity, increase scratch resistance, and most importantly, delivery a consistently neutral color profile.”

Ideal for professional photographers and cinematographers looking to ensure the most accurate representations of their creative vision, the QuartzLine Camera Filters combine PolarPro’s Death Valley-tested precision coatings with some of the most premium materials available.

Fused Quartz Glass At 99.9% pure, fused quartz is one of the purest glasses available. It’s this purity that allows the QuartzLine Filters to be extremely durable while delivering stunning optics and optimal clarity. The fused quartz glass also helps to ensure QuartzLine Filters have an extremely low refractive index of only 1.46 giving the filters increased stability and temperature resistance (from -50F up to 130F), so content creators can bring the true-life colors to their final product from the most extreme locations on the planet.

Color and Image Accuracy Light transmission in the QuartzLine Filters is perfectly neutral from the UV spectrum all the way across the IR spectrum, which gives photographers and cinematographers the confidence to stretch the boundaries of their creative vision while ensuring color and image accuracy. Unique among filter manufacturers, PolarPro leverages its new advanced coating technologies to eliminate any color cast or color inconsistency throughout the spectrum. The single-element QuartzLine Filters are available in a wide array of ND and ND/PL filters so photographers or cinematographers do not have to stack glass to achieve the desired effect, while also allowing wide-angle shots without fear of vignetting.

Precision Coatings The QuartzLine Filters rely on PolarPro’s advanced coating technologies to eliminate color shift, reduce flaring and ghosting, and to increase surface hardness for the already-durable fused quartz glass. Unlike other filters on the market, QuartzLine receives advanced coatings to eliminate color-casting or inconsistencies throughout the color spectrum. Each of the QuartzLine Filters feature:

• Neutral Density Coating – Precisely applied to reduce the desired light transmission without incurring color shifts, PolarPro’s ND coatings have been tested in the most demanding conditions possible from the workshop test bench to sun-blasted skies around the world.

• Anti-Reflective Coating – Reducing the reflectivity of the lens filter eliminates hot spots in the frame, and PolarPro’s coating technology allows the 3.45% native reflectivity of the fused quartz to be reduced to a negligible 0.455%.

• Anti-Scratch Coating – Protecting the coatings and base glass while hardening the filters surface, PolarPro’s anti-scratch coating has stood up to the demands of the most adventurous downhill thrashings possible.

• Hydrophobic Coating – Increasing surface hardness, while making for easy cleaning and water resistance, PolarPro’s hydroscopic coating provides the external layer on the QuartzLine Filters.

Durable Brass Frames The durable four-part frame which houses each QuartzLine Filter has been over-engineered to ensure it threads onto each lens perfectly. Wanting to use the absolute best materials possible, PolarPro eschewed the traditional aluminum frames in favor of the more durable, yet lightweight, brass frames. With the unique production demands of professional photographers and videographers in mind, the QuartzLine showcases the brass exterior portion of the frame while the interior is coated in a matte back to prevent unwanted reflections.

Comprehensive Product Range The QuartzLine Filters will be available for a wide array of lens sizes and a series of optional step-up rings will allow QuartzLine to accommodate most professional lenses. The range of UV, circular polarizing filters, traditional neutral density and hybrid neutral density/polarizing filters is detailed in brief below, or on the QuartzLine product page, here.

  • Filter Thread Sizes: 37mm, 46mm, 67mm, 77mm, 82mm
  • Filter Options: UV, CP, ND8, ND8/PL, ND16, ND16/PL, ND64, ND64/PL, ND1000, ND1000/PL, ND100000
  • Step-up Ring Options:
    • Step 52mm, 55mm and 58mm lens to 67mm filter
    • Step 62mm, 67mm and 72mm to a 77mm filter
    • Step 62mm, 67mm, 72mm and 77mm lens to an 82mm filter
  • PolarPro Kanga Camera Filter Cases: Available in 3-filter or 6-filter storage sizes, the PolarPro Kanga Camera Filter Case features a magnetic opening for quick and easy filter access, plush microfiber interior lining, and a pull-tab system for streamlined filter selection. The PolarPro Kanga Cases retail for $ 39.99 and can be purchased here.

For more information about the new PolarPro QuartzLine Camera Filters, retail availability and pricing, please visit our website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma expands product warranty to cover hurricane damage from Harvey, Irma and Maria

19 Oct

In a move that’s being praised by the photo community at large, Sigma has temporarily extended its product warranty to cover repairs for damage caused by the hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. The only catch being that Sigma must receive your damaged product before December 31st of this year.

This information comes from a statement Sigma provided to Fstoppers, which is reporting that any products that can’t be repaired will be replaced at a special discounted price that is determined on a case-by-case basis. Repairs and return shipment of the products are provided for free, but customers must provide their sales receipt as proof-of-purchase.

Sigma says that customers who no longer have the receipt should contact the company.

You can read the full statement on Fstoppers.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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ImageRights expands copyright registration, adds new blockchain protections

19 Sep

Photo protection company ImageRights International, a Boston-based business with offices in Seattle and Berlin, has launched a new image copyright registration system that anyone can use, not just subscribers. The company offers both a Lightroom plugin and a website-based registration tool that streamlines registrations, including automatically checking for errors and filling in forms.

ImageRights’ new copyright registration option costs $ 100 on top of the US Copyright Office fee ($ 35 or higher). This is compared to ImageRights’ subscriber plans, which charge $ 69 for registering a single image and $ 89 for registering multiple images. On top of that, the company offers subscribers additional services such as assessing infringement claims, finding unauthorized uses of a registered photo, and more. But now you don’t need to subscribe to take advantage of their streamlined registration system.

In addition, ImageRights is taking a cue from Binded (formerly Blokai) by launching a Bitcoin blockchain record that uses the technology to save the ImageRights Deposit Copy Certificate of Warranty document it creates when someone uses its service to register a photo. Talking to PDN about this, ImageRights CEO Joe Naylor explained:

We make a hash of this [warranty] document and inscribe it into the Bitcoin Blockchain. This is a tool that helps us during an infringement settlement discussion when the other party questions whether or not an image was really covered by the USCO registration certificate that we say it is. We can show them the warranty where they can now see a visual representation of the image (the thumbnail) associated with the USCO Registration number. And to help prove that we didn’t just fabricate the document when they challenged us, we can show that from the blockchain inscription records that this document existed at that date.

ImageRights is one of multiple services that helps photographers register their image copyrights, though it says it is the only one with a fully automated registration system. Binded is a popular alternative, and it recently announced free one-click registrations.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm adds GF 45mm F2.8 R WR, expands medium-format lens roadmap

10 Sep

Fujifilm’s offerings for its GF medium-format system have expanded with the addition of the Fujinon GF 45mm F2.8 R WR. It will provide a 36mm equivalent view of the world when used on the company’s GFX 50S, and is dust- and weather-resistant. Lens construction includes a 9 blade aperture and 8 groups with 11 elements, including one aspherical and two ED lenses.

Fujifilm plans to launch a GF 250mm F4 R LM OIS WR telephoto prime and a GF 1.4X TC WR teleconverter next year, both of which are hinted to on an existing roadmap. The 250mm gives a 198mm equivalent view.

A firmware update is also on the way for the GFX 50S to add support for Fuji’s X Raw Studio and better functionality with third party studio flash controllers. Here’s the full list of improvements:

FUJIFILM GFX 50S: V.2.0 Key Features

  1. Supports FUJIFILM X RAW STUDIO which enables users to convert RAW files with X Processor Pro.
  2. Improves radio flash controller usability allowing users to shoot with compatible third party studio flash in high speed sync or TTL mode via their radio controllers.
  3. Supports backup and restore of camera settings from one camera to another via FUJIFILM X Acquire.
  4. Addition of “Eye Sensor + LCD Image Display” in View Mode that allows for shooting through the viewfinder and checking images on the LCD.
  5. ON/OFF for 1/3-step shutter speed adjustment.
  6. Addition of “Shoot Without Card” mode so camera will not shoot without SD card inserted.
  7. Addition of “-6” and “-7” to EVF’s brightness settings.

The Fujinon GF 45mm F2.8 R WR is scheduled for arrival in November for $ 1700.

FUJIFILM ADDS SIXTH GF LENS TO GFX MEDIUM FORMAT MIRRORLESS CAMERA SYSTEM FOR STREET

FUJINON GF45mmF2.8 R WR Lens adds versatile wide angle lens to the series; updated GF Lens Roadmap announced and new GFX firmware coming soon

Valhalla, N.Y., September 7, 2017 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJINON GF45mmF2.8 R WR, a highly versatile wide angle lens. The GF45mmF2.8 R WR lens has a focal length equivalent to 36mm (in the 35mm format) and a maximum aperture of F2.8. With its compact and lightweight design weighing just 490g, this lens is perfect for street and documentary photography.

The new GF45mmF2.8 R WR is the sixth interchangeable GF lens to be added for the FUJIFILM GFX 50S medium format mirrorless digital camera system. Taking advantage of the mirrorless system’s structure, the G Mount has a short flange back distance of just 26.7mm that reduces the back focus distance as much as possible to prevent vignetting and achieve edge-to-edge sharpness. As with all GF Lenses, the GF45mmF2.8 R WR is a professional quality lens capable of reproducing rich tones and unique colors.

With a construction of 8 groups and 11 elements using one aspherical lens and two ED lenses, the GF45mmF2.8 R WR lens is equipped to provide the highest image quality while reducing aberrations. The lens features Nano GI coating to suppress ghosting and flare, and is weather and dust resistant capable of operating in environments as cold as 14°F/-10°C. The GF45mmF2.8 R WR lens combines reliability and high performance to be the ultimate tool for professional photographers.

FUJINON GF45mmF2.8 R WR Lens Key Features:

  • FUJIFILM G Mount is compatible with the FUJIFILM GFX 50S
  • Weather and dust resistant design capable of operating at temperatures as low as 14°F/-10°C
  • 8 groups and 11 elements construction using one aspherical lens and two ED lenses
  • 9 blade aperture creates smooth and circular bokeh
  • Nano GI coating suppresses ghosting and flare

New FUJINON GF Lens Development Roadmap
Also announced today is the latest development of the G Mount Lens Roadmap, showcasing the continued expansion of the interchangeable lens range for the FUJIFILM GFX 50S medium format mirrorless digital camera. The latest roadmap adds two new lenses: the GF250mmF4 R LM OIS WR telephoto prime lens with a focal length equivalent to 198mm (in 35mm format) and maximum aperture of F4 for beautiful bokeh when shooting portrait and landscape images; and the GF1.4X TC WR, a high-performance teleconverter capable of multiplying the focal length by 1.4x. Compatible with the GF250mmF4 R LM OIS WR lens, the GF1.4X teleconverter provides a focal length of 350mm (equivalent to 277mm in the 35mm format).

With the addition of the two lenses, the GF lens lineup includes a total of eight lenses covering focal lengths from 18mm – 277mm (in the 35mm format) to correspond to an expansive range of photographer needs.

New Firmware Updates Coming Soon
Fujifilm will release a new firmware update for the FUJIFILM GFX 50S medium format mirrorless digital camera. Expected in late November 2017, this update will add new support for FUJIFILM X RAW STUDIO, improved third party studio flash controller usability and new functions to improve operability.

FUJIFILM GFX 50S: V.2.0 Key Features

  1. Supports FUJIFILM X RAW STUDIO which enables users to convert RAW files with X Processor Pro.
  2. Improves radio flash controller usability allowing users to shoot with compatible third party studio flash in high speed sync or TTL mode via their radio controllers.
  3. Supports backup and restore of camera settings from one camera to another via FUJIFILM X Acquire.
  4. Addition of “Eye Sensor + LCD Image Display” in View Mode that allows for shooting through the viewfinder and checking images on the LCD.
  5. ON/OFF for 1/3-step shutter speed adjustment.
  6. Addition of “Shoot Without Card” mode so camera will not shoot without SD card inserted.
  7. Addition of “-6” and “-7” to EVF’s brightness settings.

Availability and Pricing
The new FUJINON GF45mmF2.8 R WR lens will be available in November 2017 for USD $ 1,699.95.

Fujifilm GF 45mm F2.8 R WR Specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size APS-C / DX
Focal length 45 mm
Image stabilization Yes
Lens mount Fujifilm G
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8
Minimum aperture F32
Aperture ring Yes
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 11
Groups 8
Special elements / coatings One aspherical, two ED elements + Nano GI, fluorine coatings
Focus
Minimum focus 45.00 m (1771.65″)
Maximum magnification 0.14×
Autofocus Yes
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 490 g (1.08 lb)
Diameter 84 mm (3.31″)
Length 88 mm (3.46″)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Filter thread 62.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon expands D750 shutter recall yet again, more cameras affected

14 Jul
The Nikon D750 shutter unit has been causing problems for 2 years. Photo: Nikon

It seems Nikon D750 shutter issues are still plaguing the company 2 full years after it initially issued a recall on some serial numbers produced between October 2014 and June 2015. In another update issued yesterday, Nikon expanded the recall to include more cameras—specifically: models produced between July 2014 through September 2014 and from July 2015 through September 2016.

This issue first cropped up on the Nikon advisory page in July of 2015. At the time, Nikon claimed the issue—which could result in the shutter shading a part of your photo—was limited to units made in October and November of 2014.

Then, in February of 2016, Nikon expanded the recall to include units made between December 2014 to June 2015.

Today’s update makes three, and expands the recall to include units manufactured between July 2014 to September 2014 and those made between July 2015 and September 2016. If you’re keeping score, that means that affected units were being manufactured from July of 2014 all the way through September of last year.

Check your serial number using Nikon’s website to find out if your camera is affected. Photo: Nikon

As with the original advisory and the previous update, D750 owners can check to see if their camera is affected by using Nikon’s serial number lookup tool at this link. If your camera is affected, that tool will provide instructions on sending your D750 to Nikon for repair free of charge regardless of warranty status.

Read the full service advisory text below for more details.

UPDATED NIKON D750 SERVICE ADVISORY AS OF JULY 12, 2017.

Technical Service Advisory for users of the Nikon D750 digital SLR camera

Thank you for choosing Nikon for your photographic needs.

In February of 2016, we announced in an update that the shutter in some Nikon D750 digital SLR cameras manufactured between October 2014 through June 2015 may not function normally, sometimes resulting in a shading of a portion of images. Since that time, we have learned that the same issue may affect D750 cameras manufactured from July 2014 through September 2014 and from July 2015 through September 2016.

For those who have already purchased a D750 and would like to have their camera serviced for this issue, free of charge, Nikon service centers will service cameras as indicated below. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this issue may have caused.

Identifying affected D750 cameras

To check whether or not your camera may be one of those affected by this issue, click the Check Your Serial Number link below and enter your D750’s serial number as instructed.

If your D750 camera is one of those that may be affected, instructions for obtaining service will be displayed. If your D750 camera is not one of those to which this issue may apply, rest assured that service to your D750 camera as to this issue is not necessary and you may continue using your D750 camera without concern for this issue.

Check Your Serial Number

The camera’s serial number is the 7-digit number indicated by the red frame in the image above.

Resolution

If your D750 camera may be affected, as confirmed with the serial number check above, you will be provided with the necessary information to obtain service for this issue free of charge. Once your D750 camera is received by Nikon, your D750 camera’s shutter will be examined and replaced, and your D750 camera returned to you free of charge, even if your D750 camera warranty has expired.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this matter may have caused you.

Nikon will continue to take all possible measures to further improve product quality. Therefore, we hope that you will continue to choose Nikon for your photographic needs.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm expands weather-resistant lens selection with XF 50mm F2 R WR

21 Jan

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Fujifilm has announced a new weather-resistant prime: the Fujinon XF 50mm F2 R WR. It sits alongside the XF 35mm F2 and 23mm F2 as another compact, lightweight yet sturdy lens for the X-system. Offering dust and water resistance, the 50mm F2 is freezeproof to 14°F/-10°C.

On Fujifilm’s APS-C cameras the 50mm F2 offers a 76mm equivalent view. The lens comprises 9 elements in 7 groups with one aspherical ED element, and uses a stepping motor for autofocus. The whole package weighs in at 7oz/200g.

The Fujifilm XF 50mm F2 R WR will go on sale in February for around $ 450/£450.

Press Release

FUJIFILM X-T20 UPS PERFORMANCE AND ADDS TOUCH CONTROLS FOR ENTHUSIAST PHOTOGRAPHERS; NEW COMPACT FUJINON XF50MMF2 R WR PERFECT TRAVEL COMPANION LENS

Valhalla, N.Y., January 19, 2017 – As the leader in innovation for photographers, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJIFILM X-T20 interchangeable lens camera that joins the award-winning X Series digital camera lineup. The X-T20 is the successor to the FUJIFILM X-T10 and builds on its outstanding image quality, intuitive design, and versatility with a new APS-C sized 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III sensor and X-Processor Pro image processing engine. The updated sensor and processor, along with an improved AF algorithm, boost the camera’s startup time and AF performance, dramatically improving its ability to track moving subjects for their best pictures to date. The X-T20 also has a large tilting touchscreen LCD monitor for multi-angle shooting and responds to quick gestures for a variety of efficient controls and picture review.

Also announced today is the new FUJINON XF50mmF2 R WR, a compact, mid-telephoto lens adding to the X Series lineup of interchangeable lenses known for their outstanding image quality. The lens features a focal length equivalent to 76mm (in the 35mm film format) and a maximum aperture of F2.0 for beautiful bokeh. The compact and stylish optic also offers high speed AF and weighs just 200g.

Advanced Imaging for the Discerning Enthusiast
The FUJIFILM X-T20 improves on the X-T10 with a 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III sensor and a new Video option to the Drive Dial to enable instantaneous switching from still photo shooting to the video recording mode. The Exposure Compensation Dial now has the C position for exposure compensation up to ±5 stops, while the LCD monitor uses a tilting touchscreen panel for intuitive operation at almost any angle. The X-T20 is also equipped with an Auto mode selector lever for selecting the fully-automatic Advanced SR Auto mode where the camera chooses the optimum settings for a given scene.

The new sensor’s enhanced signal processing technology has even greater control over digital noise with an improved ISO sensitivity of ISO12800 available as a regular ISO option. At ultra-high ISO settings, the camera produces low-noise images, with deep blacks and smooth tones, delivering beautiful images even in low light conditions.

The FUJIFILM X-T20 also has a Grain Effect function for reproducing distinctive graininess seen in photographs taken with film cameras. The function can be set to Strong or Weak, and can be combined with any of the Film Simulation modes. You can easily obtain the look of film-based photos, with the effect most obvious when the image is printed out.

Photo enthusiasts will find the very best image results made possible by Fujifilm’s proprietary color reproduction technology, developed through producing photographic films, that helps to reproduce warm skin tones, bright blue skies and rich green foliage, just as you remember seeing in real life.

Compact and Lightweight Body Makes Photography Fun and Easy
With the FUJIFILM X-T20, users will find a compact body that is both strong and light and made from magnesium alloy. The top plate features three precision-milled aluminum dials which give the X-T20 a premium feel and allow users to easily adjust the aperture, shutter speed and shooting functions while concentrating on picture taking.

The X-T20 features a 3.0 inch 1.04M-dot tilting TFT color LCD touchscreen monitor for both above head and close to the ground shooting. By combining the Touch Shot function with the tilt LCD monitor, you can get even more creative. Place the camera on the ground and use Touch Shot for a child’s face or a pet’s eye view, or hold it above a crowd of people or an obstacle for high-angle shooting.

Easy Touch, Swipe and Pinch Controls
The LCD monitor in the X-T20 uses a capacitive touchscreen panel to facilitate high-angle shots, taken from above a crowd of people or an obstacle, as well as low-angle shots simulating the ground level perspective.

Users can also opt to use the LCD monitor as a touchscreen to easily access shooting and playback modes. When shooting with the X-T20, you can use the touchscreen to select the focus area, focus on a specific point, and combine the actions of focusing and shooting in succession.

For playback, users can enjoy swipe to scroll through images, double-tap to enlarge, drag the image once enlarged, along with pinch-out and pinch-in sizing.

Improved AF Performance for Moving Subjects
The FUJIFILM X-T20 has an expanded number of focusing points, up from 49 in the previous model to 91 (up to 325 points). Approximately 40% of the imaging area (the center area containing 49 focusing points) is covered with phase detection AF pixels to form a fast and precise phase detection AF area that can be used in a variety of scenes.

By redesigning the AF algorithm from the ground up, the X-T20 can now autofocus more accurately on points of light, low-contrast objects and subjects with fine details such as bird feathers and animal fur. The read speed of the Contrast AF system has been doubled compared to the previous model to enable faster and more accurate autofocusing. During video recording, the AF point transitions smoothly to track a moving subject to create natural looking footage.

Users can choose from a Single Point mode, useful when accurate focusing on a subject is required, and a Zone mode that allows them to select a 3×3, 5×5 or 7×7 zone out of the 91-point AF area. The centrally positioned 3×3 and 5×5 zones, in particular, deliver fast focusing thanks to the on-sensor phase detection AF. The Wide/Tracking mode is a combination of the Wide mode (during AF-S), in which the camera automatically identifies and tracks the area in focus across the 91-point AF area, and the predictive Tracking mode (during AF-C), which uses the entire 91-point area to continue tracking a subject. This feature enables continuous focusing on a subject that is moving up and down, left and right or towards and away from the camera.

The X-T20 features an AF-C Custom setting, which enhances focus tracking performance when shooting in the Continuous AF (AF-C) mode. In the AF-C Custom setting, users can choose from five AF presets, including:

  • Preset 1 (Standard Setting for Multi-Purpose) is a standard setting that can be applied when shooting moving subjects as a whole. It is similar to the conventional AF-C setting, and is selected by default when no AF-C Custom setting is specified.
  • Preset 2 (Ignore Obstacles & Continue to Track Subject) is suitable when obstacles are likely to come into a selected focus area, blocking a subject.
  • Preset 3 (For Accelerating / Decelerating Subjects) is best suited to situations such as motorsports, which involves a subject that makes major speed changes including rapid acceleration or deceleration. It is particularly effective when using linear motor-driven lenses capable of high-speed AF.
  • Preset 4 (For Suddenly Appearing Subjects) gives focusing priority to a subject closest to the camera in the selected focus area, so as to swiftly focus on a subject that suddenly comes into the frame.
  • Preset 5 (For Erratically Moving & Accelerating or Decelerating Subjects) is suitable for shooting field sports in which subjects accelerate or decelerate rapidly, and also move erratically.

FUJIFILM X-T20 Key Features:

  • 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor
    – X-Processor Pro
    – Start-up time of 0.4sec
    – Ultra-fast AF speed of 0.06sec
    – Offers 5.0fps live-view shooting
    – Shutter time lag of 0.050sec
    – Shooting interval of 0.25sec
  • 3.0 inch 1.04M-dot tilting TFT color LCD touchscreen monitor
  • 0.39 inch 2,360K-dot OLED color viewfinder
  • Live View Display to preview pictures where you can
  • New ACROS Film Simulation mode
  • AF-C Custom Settings with five AF-C presets
  • 4K video can be recorded at [3840 x 2160] 29.97p, 25p, 24p, 23.98P, 100Mbps
    – Continuous recording: up to approximately 10min
  • Full HD video can be recorded at 59.94 fps, 50 fps, 29.97 fps, 25 fps, 24 fps and 23.98 fps, and with Film Simulation effects
    – Video can be outputted to external monitor via the HDMI port and input audio from an external microphone
    – Easily connect to external HDMI monitor and turn on HDMI Rec Control to automatically enable a clean HDMI output when the camera’s shutter release button is pressed
    – Touch AF to change the focus area and refocusing according to subject movement functions in video recording
  • 24 high-performance FUJINON X-mount lenses for ultimate versatility
  • Integrated pop-up flash with Super Intelligent Flash to automatically adjust light output
  • Unique Lens Modulation Optimizer (LMO) image processing technology to deliver the best possible image quality
    – LMO corrects optical defects such as diffraction to achieve edge-to-edge sharpness and a realistic three-dimensional effect
  • Nine Film Simulation modes (including ACROS) and Advanced Filter functions for eight different artistic effects
  • Multiple Exposure function combines two separate subjects into one photo
  • Interval timer shooting for time lapse photography
    – intervals of one second to 24 hours, and up to infinity frames
  • Completely silent electronic shutter capable of exposures up to 1/32000 seconds.
  • Digital Split Image for precise manual focusing and Focus Peaking to highlight high-contrast areas of the subject
  • Eye Detection AF function for automatically detecting and focusing on human eyes
  • Auto Macro function automatically activates the Macro mode while maintaining AF speed, eliminating any need to press the Macro button to capture a close-up
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for shooting from your smartphone or tablet devices
  • Free FUJIFILM Camera Remote app for Remote Control function
    – Photos can be sent directly from the camera to the Instax SHARE Smartphone Printer for instant Instax prints
  • Wi-Fi® Transfer is supported, enabling wireless backup of the data to a computer
  • Weather and dust resistant; operates as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit \ 0 degrees Celsius

FUJINON XF50mmF2 R WR Lens
The new XF50mmF2 R WR is a mid-telephoto lens that is designed to deliver the very best results from Fujifilm’s unique X-Trans CMOS sensor. The XF50mmF2 R WR, perfect for any type of travel photography, is compact and lightweight, and features 9 elements in 7 groups, including one aspherical ED lens, and has an inner focusing system, driven by a stepping motor for fast and silent autofocusing. The premium XF50mF2 R WR is made of metal and glass for a stylish, robust design with a premium feel, while the aperture and focusing rings have been designed to be comfortable and easy to use. The lens is also weather and dust resistant, and operates in temperatures as low as 14°F°C, making it ideal for shooting in a variety of weather conditions.

FUJINON XF50mmF2 R WR Lens Key Features:

  • FUJIFILM X-Mount is compatible with all FUJIFILM X Series interchangeable system cameras
  • Weather-sealed at ten points around the barrel for weather and dust resistance; operates as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit \ -10 degrees Celsius
  • 9 lens elements in 7 groups including one aspherical ED lens
  • Compact, lightweight lens weighs just 200g
  • Aperture and focusing rings feature precise click stops and smooth damping for easy operation
  • Inner focusing AF system uses a stepping motor to drive lightweight focusing elements for a fast, silent autofocus performance
  • Super EBC (Super Electron Beam Coating) ensures high performance by reducing both flare and ghosting

Availability and Pricing
The new FUJIFILM X-T20 Body (Black and Silver) will be available in February 2017 in the U.S. and Canada for USD $ 899.95 and CAD$ 1,199.99. The X-T20 Body with XF18-55mm Lens Kit will be available for USD $ 1,199.95 and CAD $ 1,599.99; the X-T20 Body with XC16-50mm Lens Kit will be available for USD $ 999.95 and CAD $ 1,299.99.

The FUJIFILM XF50mmF2 R WR (Black and Silver) will be available in February 2017 in the U.S. and Canada for USD $ 449.95 and CAD$ 649.99.

Fujifilm XF 50mm F2 R WR specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size APS-C / DX
Focal length 50 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Fujifilm X
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2
Minimum aperture F16
Optics
Special elements / coatings 1 ED element
Focus
Minimum focus 0.39 m (15.35″)
Maximum magnification 0.15×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 200 g (0.44 lb)
Diameter 60 mm (2.36″)
Length 59 mm (2.32″)
Materials Metal
Sealing Yes
Colour Black, silver
Filter thread 46.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica expands ‘a la carte’ program to allow customers to customize the M Monochrom

25 Jun
The Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) shown in cement leather and silver chrome

Leica has announced that its M Monochrom (Typ 246) will now become part of the company’s ‘a la carte’ program, where photographers can choose a range of custom options to personalize their camera. The M Monochrom has only been available in a discrete black chrome finish until now, with black leather and no traditional Leica red dot in case it attracted unwanted attention. Now that the camera is in the a la carte program a polished silver chrome version will be available as well as black laquer, and the leather finish can be chosen from 10 different colours including shades of red, blue, green and brown.

The service also allows users to decide if they want the image field selector lever that previews the effects of different focal lengths (it costs more to have it removed), to choose between Gorilla and sapphire glass on the LCD, and a choice of color for the strap to match or complement the color of the body. Users can also request no engraving on the camera’s top plate, or indeed request their own lettering or signature for the top plate and/or the camera’s rear.

The customization can add over £1000 to the cost of the body on top of a charge of £840 for the service. Leica has created a simulator so that users can choose their options online, and Leica stores will also offer the service. For more information visit the Leica Camera website.

Press release:

Made to measure: Leica M Monochrom à la carte

Leica à la carte programme extended with the addition of the Leica M Monochrom, with silver chrome finish available for the first time

Leica Camera has today announced that its successful Leica M à la carte camera personalisation programme has been expanded with the addition of the Leica M Monochrom, bringing the entire portfolio of bespoke options to this special digital rangefinder model.

The Leica M Monochrom, which incorporates a unique black and white sensor, can now be ordered with a multitude of tailored features, including a choice of classic black chrome or black paint body. Furthermore, for the first time and exclusively via the à la carte programme, customers can also select the camera body in a stunning silver chrome finish.

Among the custom options are a top plate with – or without – the iconic Leica ‘red dot’ logo on the front, and an extensive collection of leather trims, from classic black to subtle shades to rich, eye-catching colours such as khaki, red or deep blue.

For the ultimate personal touch, the Leica M Monochrom à la carte can be delivered with fine engraving on the top surface and rear of the top plate. Meticulously hand-crafted in Germany, each camera can be transformed into a personal ‘object of desire’ – a unique and unmistakeable example of precision and quality – with the application of its owner’s signature, custom text or special markings.

An array of high quality camera carrying straps completes the Leica M à la carte portfolio, in colours and materials to match those chosen for the camera’s leather trim.

Allowing the simulation of all possible variations, and selection of the final combination chosen by the customer, an online configurator is available now on the Leica website at uk.leica-camera.com. Orders for the personalised Leica M Monochrom à la carte camera can be placed via official Leica Stores and Boutiques, where customers are able to view a variety of samples, illustrating the full range of options offered by the programme.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Beastgrip expands into UK and Japanese markets, announces plans for high quality lenses from Kenko Tokina

13 Apr

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US mobile phone rig and lens mount manufacturer Beastgrip has started distribution of its Beastgrip Pro smartphone grip in the UK and Japan, and announced it is working on new ‘high quality’ lenses with Kenko Tokina. The Beastgrip Pro is an adaptable smartphone housing that uses adjustable clamps and a sliding lens mount assembly to fit conversion lenses over the camera of any model – Beastgrip claims.

The system uses a 37mm threaded lens mount that accepts conversion lenses from Beastgrip’s own collection as well as those from independent manufacturers. The company also offers what is calls a DOF (depth-of-field) adapter that allows Canon EF-mount lenses to be used on the rig in front of the smartphone lens to achieve a shallow depth of field.

The rig also features a cold shoe and tripod thread for attaching accessories such as microphones and lights, as well as a number of mounting threads.

While the company offers its own wide, ultra-wide and fisheye conversion lenses the partnership with Kenko Tokina promises some extra interesting lenses. Kenko’s own line of smartphone conversion lenses includes a 7x telephoto lens that would convert most smartphone focal lengths to 196mm – but that’s not to say it would be also produced to fit the Beastgrip Pro.

The system will be distributed by Kenko Tokina in Japan and Intro2020 in the UK. The price of the rig on its own is $ 139.99/£139.99, and kits are available that include wide and fisheye conversion lenses. For more information visit the Beastgrip website.

Press release:

Beastgrip Pro – the world’s first universal lens adapter and camera rig for smartphones

With immediate effect, Intro 2020 has been appointed sole UK distributor of BEASTGRIP PRO.

Beastgrip Pro is the world’s first universal lens adapter and camera rig system for smartphones. It is the ultimate tool for photographers, videographers and the rapidly growing live streaming market.

The Beastgrip Rig features an adjustable lens mount with spring loaded clamps to ensure a secure grip and perfect fit with virtually any smartphone on the market. It is a modular rig system with a removable lens mount assembly and handle that allows the user to modify the Beastgrip Pro to their own personal preference. It comes with industry-standard photography mounts and an ergonomic grip, allowing you to attach all kinds of photography gear and take a better shot.

There are 3 kits in the product range, including 2 with lenses, as follows:

Beastgrip Pro Rig
Universal/adjustable and works with virtually any camera phone on the market. It is simple and convenient to use and works with or without a protective phone case. It features a standard 37mm threaded lens/filter mount and is compatible with wide variety of conversion lenses and filters. It also features a cold shoe mount for attaching LED lights, microphones, and other accessories plus comes with five standard ¼”-20 threaded mounts for attaching to supportive photo/video gear such as tripods, stabilizers, sliders and other accessories.

Beastgrip Pro Rig plus Wide Angle Lens
This set includes a 37mm 0.43x Extreme Wide-Angle lens, which nearly doubles the field-of-view in your photo/video, letting the user see much more in the frame than a standard phone camera. It’s perfect for shooting large scenes like landscapes, concerts, sports, family photos etc.

Beastgrip Pro rig plus Wide Angle and Fish-eye lenses
Includes the Beastgrip 37mm 0.43x Extreme Wide-Angle lens and an ultra wide-angle lens that produces strong visual distortion, i.e. the classic “fisheye” circle, and an immersive 180° field-of-view. It’s perfect for action sports like skateboarding, biking, snowboarding/skis, etc.

SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICES:
•    Beastgrip Pro Rig £139.99 including VAT
•    Beastgrip Pro Rig plus Wide Angle Lens £169.99 including VAT
•    Beastgrip Pro Rig plus Wide Angle & Fisheye Lenses £199.99 including VAT

All units are available immediately.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sekonic expands LiteMaster Pro meter series for wireless control of Elinchrom and Phottix flashes

10 Feb

Japanese light and color meter manufacturer Sekonic has introduced a pair of new ambient and flash light meters to the L-478 series that are dedicated to use with Elinchrom and Phottix flash units. The Sekonic LiteMaster Pro L-478DR-U-EL is designed to be used with Skyport-equipped Elinchrom heads, while the LiteMaster Pro L-478DR-U-PX is aimed at users of Phottix Indra studio heads, Mitros+ hotshoe flash guns, the Strato and Strato II receivers and the Atlas II transceiver.

From the new meters Elinchrom users will be able to adjust flash output in 1/10th stops across four lighting groups, and the meter is capable of triggering and measuring individual groups as well as all the flashes as a whole. Photographers using the Phottix system will be able to make adjustments in 1/3rd stop steps, and can trigger individual or collections of groups at one time. Although the meters are primarily intended for wireless radio triggering they also support standard flash cables. 

The LiteMaster Pro L-478 meters use a color touch-screen interface, and are designed to be used for still and motion picture work. These new models include an ISO 850 setting to suit users of the Canon cinema cameras, and have had their filter compensation factor increased from 5EV to 12EV for people using high-value neutral density filters. These features will be added to the current L-478D-U and L-478DR-U (PocketWizard) models via a firmware update in the near future. 

An interesting feature of the series is the ability to store the dynamic range profile of ten camera/lens combinations so that you can ensure that your lighting set-ups don’t create burnt-out highlights or blocked shadows. 

The new LiteMaster Pro L-478 meters will cost $ 400/£400. For more information visit the Sekonic website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Out of Surface Space, Island of Singapore Expands Underground

07 Dec

[ By WebUrbanist in Architecture & Cities & Urbanism. ]

subsurface urban expansion

Bound by water on all sides, the city-state of Singapore is pioneering subterranean urban development, starting with storage and transportation systems and escalating with plans for power plants, sports stadiums, libraries and more.

rock cavern expansion

In an interview, Jian Zhao, professor of geomechanics at Monash University, noted that “with the limited land available, one of the best possible ways to increase space is to create it underground.” Wealthy but spatially limited,  “Singapore is leading the world on exploring underground space as part of the urban development.”

subsurface singapore development

Currently in progress, the Jurong Rock Caverns, for example, are designed to store vast amounts of oil. Nearly ten stories tall, they can house 150,000,000 cubic meters of oil. This is one of the many projects under construction or in development at the behest of the government’s National Innovation Challenges: Land and Liveability.

rock cavern diagram

The caverns were created through a combination of drilling and explosives, hollowing out the rocky subsurface, then bolstered with a water curtain that keeps the hydrocarbons in place through hydrostatic pressure. A series of support infrastructure projects includes access shafts and operation tunnels, many hundreds of feet below the ground. Other densely-populated islands, from Manhattan to Hong Kong, may be looking to these projects as examples of how to increase development in areas where land expansion simply is not feasible. Images courtesy of the JTC Corporation.

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