As someone interested in photography and looking at equipment did you ever think “why are camera lenses so expensive?” Having used DSLRs for nearly 20 years, I can tell you that camera lenses being expensive is due to several factors. Let me explain this and also give you some tips on saving money on your next lens purchase. One of Continue Reading
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Posts Tagged ‘Expensive’
This Is Why Camera Lenses Are Expensive
23
Jul
Sony Releases a Gorgeous (and Expensive) 35mm f/1.4 Lens
19
Jan
The post Sony Releases a Gorgeous (and Expensive) 35mm f/1.4 Lens appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.
Just last week, Sony unveiled its latest high-powered creation:
A 35mm f/1.4 GM lens, designed for full-frame, E-mount cameras, and offering an impressive set of capabilities (for an eye-watering price).
As you’d expect from a G Master lens, the 35mm f/1.4 features a no-holds-barred, pro-level design. You get a beautifully-constructed barrel, a handy aperture ring (for changing the aperture on the fly without having to fiddle with camera dials), plus dust and moisture resistance. The lens is relatively light and compact (Sony highlights its 524 g/18.5 oz weight, as well as its ability to sit “comfortably in the palm of your hand”), which makes it ideal for travel and on-location photoshoots. In fact, Sony has managed to create a lens that you’ll want in your bag for pretty much any photography scenario, be it studio work, natural light portraiture, landscape photography, street photography, or event photography.
Aside from its build, what makes the Sony FE 35mm f/1.4 GM so special?
First, there’s the optics. Sony claims that the 35mm f/1.4 offers “extraordinary resolution” and “stunning contrast,” and early reviews bear this out, commenting on the lens’s impressive sharpness, even at f/1.4. This makes the 35mm f/1.4 a worthy choice for landscape photographers after a mid-wide prime, as well as for architectural photographers.
Then there’s the f/1.4 maximum aperture. Wide open, you can capture buckets of light; this is perfect for event photographers who frequently shoot indoors and need to keep their shutter speeds high, even at night. Plus, the f/1.4 setting combined with an 11-blade aperture is practically guaranteed to produce class-leading bokeh – for the kind of portrait backgrounds that will leave the viewer stunned.
Sony also promises speedy autofocus (specifically, “fast, smooth, and silent AF performance”), as well as effortless (“immediate and precise”) manual focus for those portrait photographers, landscape photographers, and videographers who require intense control when adjusting focus.
Of course, a big part of a lens’s appeal is its focal length, and here the Sony 35mm f/1.4 excels. On a full-frame camera, you get a medium-wide field of view for landscapes, environmental portraits, and wider street shots. Mount the Sony 35mm f/1.4 on a crop-sensor body, and you’ll have a handy 50mm lens, one that’ll work for standard portraits, tighter street photos, walkaround shooting, and more.
Unfortunately, the Sony 35mm f/1.4’s price tag sits just under $ 1400 USD. However, if you can afford the cost and require the absolute best image quality and bokeh around, the Sony 35mm f/1.4 won’t disappoint.
You can check out the Sony 35mm f/1.4 right here; shipping starts on February 15th.
Now over to you:
What do you think of the Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM? Are you interested? Is the lens too pricey? Or is it worth the cost? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
The post Sony Releases a Gorgeous (and Expensive) 35mm f/1.4 Lens appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.
These copper-plated Leica cameras manage to make even broken rangefinders expensive
13
Aug
 |
Leica specialist store, Meister Camera, has found a way to make non-working Leica cameras into expensive one-of-a-kind pieces of art by copper-plating the camera, lens and all.
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Meister Camera currently has eight of these one-off pieces for sale on its website. According to the product descriptions, the shop partners with a third party to copper-plate the cameras using what it calls a ‘galvanic process.’ The precise details of how the entire camera is effectively embalmed in a coat of copper, including the glass lens and non-metal components, remains unknown, but the end result speaks for itself.
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Most of the copper-plated cameras are various versions of the Leica I, II and III cameras, but Meister Camera also has a copper-plated M3 up for sale. Prices start at 995€ (~$ 1,170) for the Leica IIf and go up to 1,450€ (~$ 1,705) for the Leica M3. You can see more information for each of the cameras on Meister Cameras’ online shop.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Film Fridays: Olympus mju-II – a great camera but too expensive (for what it is)
15
May
 |
| Hamish Gill / 35mmc |
The Olympus mju-II, also known as the Stylus Epic, is a cult favorite film point-and-shoot that’s been increasing in both popularity and price over the past 10 years. A relic of the late 1990’s it offers a sharp 35mm F2.8 lens, excellent metering and accurate autofocus, all in a highly-pocketable, weather-sealed package. Sounds pretty appealing, eh?
Sadly, the days of purchasing one these for bargain prices are long gone. What may have set you back $ 40 in 2013 will likely cost you 5x that much today, for a plastic camera that’s now 7-years-more degraded. So are these little wonders still worth acquiring? 35mmc’s Hamish Gill has the answers…
Read: Olympus mju-II review – a great camera but too expensive for what it is
About Film Fridays: We recently launched an analog forum and in a continuing effort to promote the fun of the medium, we’ll be sharing film-related content on Fridays, including articles from our friends at 35mmc.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Are Professional Photographers Expensive?
05
Mar
I don’t think there is a professional photographer out there that hasn’t heard a potential client utter the words, “you charge how much?” or “what exactly do I get for that” or even “But all you do is push a button!” Yes, it’s true, any photographer worth their weight will seem expensive at first glance. Even I am guilty of Continue Reading
The post Are Professional Photographers Expensive? appeared first on Photodoto.
10 Beginner Tips for Creating Beautiful Images Without an Expensive Camera
24
Jan
The post 10 Beginner Tips for Creating Beautiful Images Without an Expensive Camera appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Shreyas Yadav.
I can’t take beautiful pictures because I have a basic entry-level camera.
My pictures are not looking great, it’s time that I should upgrade to the higher version of the camera.
My images aren’t looking excellent, ummm! I think it is because my camera is not full frame, does not have a high dynamic range and high ISO capability.
I am not getting beautiful images with my DSLR, I should upgrade to Mirrorless camera.
Does this sound familiar to you? Are these types of thoughts stopping you from making great pictures?
Well, I have good news for you.
I am going to show you the exact photography techniques that I use to create beautiful images without an expensive camera.
And the best part is…
These proven techniques work great with any type of camera, such as entry-level DSLR, Mirrorless, and so on.
You can start using these techniques to create beautiful images right away.
Let’s get started.
Here are 10 tips for creating beautiful images without an expensive camera
- Rule of thirds
- Golden Spiral
- Color wheel – choosing opposite colors
- Including the foreground object
- Patterns
- Symmetry
- Leading lines
- Negative space
- Rule of odds
- Including the frame
1. Rule of thirds
Let’s start with one of the fundamental ‘rules’ in photography – the Rule of Thirds.
Refer to the image below.
Rule of Thirds – Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
In this image, the Kingfisher is the main object; hence, I have placed the Kingfisher at the line of intersection.
Divide the frame into nine parts by using two horizontal and vertical lines. Horizontal and vertical lines intersect at four points.
When you are composing the picture, position the main object on a point where horizontal and vertical lines intersect.
If there is a secondary object in an image, try to compose the secondary object where the line intersects.
Note – In your camera, turn the Grid option on. This will enable the Grid display while you photograph your image.
Rule of Thirds will improve your composition significantly and will significantly impact the visual appeal of your image.
2. Golden spiral
The golden spiral (or Golden ratio, Fibonacci spiral or ratio) is a composition technique based on the Fibonacci series. It has been in use from ancient times in arts, sculptures, and architecture. The golden spiral technique is useful in creating beautiful and pleasing compositions in photography, as well.
Check out the below Spiral (Golden Spiral)
Golden Spiral – Crab on the tree
The main object here is the crab. Hence, I have positioned the crab where the spiral converges.
Place the main object at the smallest rectangle/square. Place the secondary supporting object along with the other rectangles. Try to place the other objects on the spiral curve. The Golden Spiral composition technique will be useful for you to create eye-pleasing compositions.
3. Color wheel
Check out the basic color wheel.
Image courtesy Wikimedia Commons
For example – red and green or violet and yellow are opposing colors.
One of the best ways to pop up the color in your image is to look for objects with opposing colors. Also, include objects with contrasting colors.
When you include the two opposing colors in an image, the image will look beautiful. This technique you can try with common objects as well. Instead of making an image of everyday objects as it is, photograph the common objects against an opposite-colored background or surroundings.
Here is an image of Red Munia.
Color Wheel – Red Munia bird against green grass
I had an option to photograph the Red Munia against yellowish-white flowers, blue water of the lake, and green grass. I changed my position to photograph the Red Munia against the green grass.
Here is one more example.
Color Wheel – Corynandra flower with yellow and violet color.
This is a close-up image of a flower.
At the center of the flower, the color is yellow, whereas the surroundings (stamens) are of violet color. Yellow and violet are the opposite colors on the color wheel. Learn more about color in our Mastering Color Series.
4. Include the foreground object
Foreground object – Waterfall and the rocks.
Apart from the main object and background, the foreground is an essential part of the image too. Adding a foreground object will give depth to your picture – especially landscape and cityscape images.
In general, most of the images in which we click have the main object and background as a part of an image. Include the object in the foreground. It will add depth to the picture.
An image is two-dimensional. Adding an interesting foreground object will make the image feel more three-dimensional because of the depth.
In the image of a waterfall, I have included rocks in the foreground. Foreground rocks add depth to the picture. Without a foreground object, the waterfall image would have been appeared flat.
5. Patterns
An image showing patterns in the rice field.
Patterns of the Utricularia flowers
In the first image, I photographed the paddy field during the rainy season. Instead of taking a general view of the rice field, I focussed on the repeating pattern of the rice field.
The second image is of the Utricularia flower, whose flowers bloom during monsoon season. I have photographed the flower from the top. There colors and shape of the flower is repeating in the pattern.
Patterns are a repetition of objects, shapes, or colors. While you are photographing outdoors, you will always find patterns.
There are two effective ways to shoot patterns
1. Photograph a uniform pattern of the objects or shapes
- Flowers of similar shape and color
- Historical monuments
- Farmlands
- Raindrops
- People with similar uniform and position
- Festival images
- Wildlife moving in the herd such as Zebra, Elephant, Deers and birds
2. Photograph a uniform pattern along with the object which is breaking that pattern
- Flowers with similar shape and colors along with the flower of different color or cactus
- Wildlife moving in a herd with one or another different animal or animal moving in the opposite direction
Photographing a similar pattern adds uniformity to the image, whereas, an object breaking a uniform pattern makes the image dynamic.
6. Symmetry
Symmetry of the Hornbills.
This image is of Malabar Pied Hornbills during the bunting season. Shown here is a male and female hornbill. I was observing the hornbills for some time before taking a photo. As soon as their beaks lined up and both of them appeared in symmetry, I pressed the shutter.
Symmetrical composition is a beautiful way to photograph an object. You can photograph symmetrical objects, reflections in the water, or symmetrical position of the object.
For symmetrical composition, you can choose the main object to be at the center. Keeping the line of symmetry at the center of the frame will make the image symmetries well-balanced.
7. Leading lines
Composition with the main object and leading lines makes for a powerful image. While photographing the main object, use a line that is directing towards it. The leading lines can be streets, compound walls, floors, stairs, trees, or any objects which form a leading line towards your main object.
Leading Lines – Man walking on the road.
In this image, the main subject is a lonely man walking. The leading lines I have used are flowers and the road. This type of composition will have your attention as these leading lines will point your eyes towards the lonely man.
8. Negative space
An example of negative Space – Sunbird
Negative Space – Sitana Lizard running
In the first image, there is empty space in which the sunbird is looking. With the second image, there is space in the direction of the movement of the lizard.
In your images, look where the main object is moving and leave some space in that area. Alternatively, leave some space in the direction they are looking toward. This space is called negative space. Composing with negative space can make for very effective compositions.
You can apply negative space to a wide variety of images too. You can use it for portraits, wildlife, birds, automobiles, cityscapes, etc.
9. Rule of odds
Rule of Odds – Three Chinkaras
While you compose an image, try to include an odd number of elements in the frame. An odd number of objects can be three, five or seven, etc. With an odd number of objects, the image becomes harmonized and balanced.
On the other hand, an even quantity of objects can add a sense of comparison.
It is not a rule. Still, we perceive images with an odd number of objects as balanced as compared to that of an even number of objects.
In this image of Chinkara, instead of photographing from eye level, I shot the image from a low level. This helped to get the foreground in the picture. Three Chinkaras were moving around. I waited for some time until three of them looked in the same direction. I pressed the shutter as soon as three of them appeared.
With three Chinkaras (an odd number of objects), the image looks balanced.
10. Including the frame
Frame – Spotted Deer in the forest.
The frame around the main subject adds depth to the image, driving the viewer’s attention towards it. The main object, along with a frame, gives perspective to the picture.
When you photograph an object, compose a frame in the foreground. Include the frame entirely or partially. Both techniques work well. Some of the frames which you can include are tree branches, forest, windows, car windows, architectural buildings, and flowers.
This deer showed up during the beautiful misty morning in the forest. With sunlight in the background, I tried to include forests in the foreground as a partial frame.
A subtle forest frame in the foreground and partially bright sunlight in the background brings this image alive!
Now it’s your turn
I hope these photography techniques will help you to create beautiful images without an expensive camera. Of course, some of these photography “rules” can be broken.
Now I would like to hear from you.
Which of the techniques are you going to try first? Let me know by leaving a comment below.
The post 10 Beginner Tips for Creating Beautiful Images Without an Expensive Camera appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Shreyas Yadav.
Why Are Wide Angle Lenses so Expensive
07
Nov
If you could’ve taken one more step back, your shot would’ve been perfect. But one more step would’ve sent you plummeting to the bottom of the canyon. You decide it’s time to add a wide angle lens to your collection. But how do you justify the expense? And why are wide angle lenses so expensive anyway? Manufacturers encounter a few Continue Reading
The post Why Are Wide Angle Lenses so Expensive appeared first on Photodoto.
Nikon Z 6 is a lower resolution, less expensive Z 7
23
Aug
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The Nikon Z 6 is a 24MP full frame mirrorless camera that uses Nikon’s new ‘Z’ mount. It is a faster, lower-resolution sister model to the high-end Z 7.
While the Nikon Z 7 may garner the most attention, the cheaper Z 6 may actually prove the more impactful of the two cameras, since it’ll be within reach of a larger number of photographers. And, since it captures oversampled video without a crop, it might be a more logical choice for video shooters than the higher-resolution Z 7.
Where the Z 7 is the mirrorless equivalent to the D850, the Z 6 is more like a D750
It carries over many features from the Z 7, from its body to EVF to many of its video specs, but uses a lower resolution sensor with fewer PDAF points. Where the Z 7 could be seen as the mirrorless equivalent to the D850, the Z 6 is more like a D750.
The Z 6 uses a ‘Nikon-designed’ full-frame 24.5MP BSI-CMOS sensor and has a total of 273 PDAF points (compared to 45.7MP and 493 points on the Z 7, respectively). It has a native ISO range spanning from ISO 100 to 51,200, missing out on the Z 7’s ISO 64 mode.
The lower resolution sensor allows the Z 6 to capture oversampled 4K video
The camera’s fastest burst rate is 12 fps (with exposure locked after the first frame), compared to 9 fps on the Z 7. This drops to 9 fps in 14-bit Raw mode.
The lower resolution sensor allows the Z 6 to capture oversampled 4K video, something that the Z 7 can only do in Super 35/DX-crop mode. If you can survive on 24 Megapixels for stills, the Z 6 could prove to be the better of the two cameras in terms of video quality.
The Z 6 will be available in late November – two months after the Z 7 – and will be available with the 24-70mm F4 S lens or body-only. The Z6 will cost $ 1995 body-only or $ 2599 with the 24-70mm F4 lens.
Press Release
NIKON INTRODUCES THE NEW NIKON Z MOUNT SYSTEM, AND RELEASES TWO FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERAS: THE NIKON Z 7 AND NIKON Z 6
MELVILLE, NY (AUGUST 23, 2018 AT 1:01 A.M. EDT) – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the full-frame (Nikon FX–format) Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6 mirrorless cameras, as well as NIKKOR Z lenses, featuring a new, larger-diameter mount to enable the next generation of ultimate optical performance.
Mirrorless Reinvented
The new Nikon Z mount system is comprised of mirrorless cameras and compatible NIKKOR Z lenses and accessories. This system has been realized through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance. It has inherited Nikon’s tradition of quality, superior imaging technology, intuitive operability and high reliability, all innovated from its digital SLR cameras.
At the heart of the Z mount system is the new, larger-diameter mount, which unlocks further possibilities of lens design. The Z mount system will offer a variety of high-performance lenses, including the fastest lens in Nikon history, with f/0.951. Additionally, the new mount adapter will enable compatibility with NIKKOR F mount lenses, adding to the range of choices for photographers.
The letter “Z” represents the culmination of Nikon’s relentless pursuit of ultimate optical performance, and a bridge to a new chapter. It is about redefining possibilities to provide image makers with tools to pursue greater creativity.
Nikon will expand the value of mirrorless cameras through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance, and by upholding Nikon’s tradition of quality while responding to the evolution of imaging technology. By providing image makers with stimulating new products, Nikon will continue to lead imaging culture.
Z 7, Z 6 Product Overview
The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with built-in focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 6.
The high-resolution Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports a standard sensitivity range of ISO 64–25600. In combination with NIKKOR Z lenses, the camera achieves an outstanding level of sharpness and detail, all the way to the edges of the image.
The versatile Z 6 is an all-purpose FX-format camera with 24.5 effective megapixels, and supports the wide sensitivity range of ISO 100–51200. With superior performance at high ISO sensitivities and full-frame 4K UHD video capture with full pixel readout, the Z 6 responds to a variety of needs, such as shooting in dimly lit environments and high-quality movie recording.
These two models combine legendary Nikon reliability and a familiar interface with the benefits of a mirrorless, including rapid FPS, hybrid AF, silent shooting and advanced multimedia capabilities.
Primary Features of the Z 7 and Z 6
- Equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels
A backside illumination CMOS sensor without an Optical Low Pass Filter, with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, has been adopted for both the Z 7 and the Z 6. The Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports ISO 64–25600 range of standard sensitivities (reduction to the equivalent of ISO 32 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 102400 is also possible). The Z 6 has an effective pixel count of 24.5 megapixels, and supports a broad range of standard sensitivities, from ISO 100–51200 (additional reduction to the equivalent of ISO 50 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 204800).
- A fast and accurate hybrid AF system with focus points covering approximately 90% of the imaging area
The Z 7 has 493 focus points2 and the Z 6 has 273 focus points2, enabling broad coverage of approximately 90% of the imaging area both horizontally and vertically. This hybrid AF system uses an algorithm optimized for the FX-format sensor, to automatically switches between focal-plane phase-detection AF and contrast-detect AF when focusing to achieve focus. Newly-designed NIKKOR Z lenses take full advantage of this system, providing faster, quieter and with increased AF accuracy than previously possible for both still images and videos.
- The new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine for sharp and clear imaging, and new functions that support creativity
The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with the new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine. Employing the superior resolving power of NIKKOR Z and NIKKOR F mount lenses, subjects are rendered more sharply than ever before. Noise is also effectively reduced.
Additionally, a mid-range sharpening option has been added to Picture Control sharpness parameters. This option, along with existing sharpening and clarity parameters, allows users to make various textures within the screen sharper or softer, for both still images and video3. The cameras also offer 20 options of Creative Picture Control, supporting creative imaging expression. The effect level is adjustable from 0 to 100.
- An electronic viewfinder that utilizes Nikon’s superior optical and image-processing technologies to offer a clear and natural view
The electronic viewfinder adopted for the Z 7 and Z 6 is comfortable and easy to use, comparable to optical viewfinders. Both cameras are equipped with an electronic viewfinder for which an approximately 3690k-dot OLED panel has been adopted. The electronic viewfinder has frame coverage and magnification of approximately 100% and 0.8×, respectively, as well as an approximately 37.0° diagonal viewing angle. It draws on Nikon’s superior optical technologies and image-processing technologies, ensuring a clear and comfortable view, with reduced aberration and minimum eyestrain, even during extended shoots. Furthermore, a fluorine coat that effectively repels dirt has been applied to the eyepiece protection window. In addition, the <i> menu can be displayed in the electronic viewfinder, allowing users to quickly view and adjust a variety of shooting settings, including ISO sensitivity, AF-area mode, and Picture Control, all while looking through the viewfinder.
- An ergonomic design unique to Nikon that enables intuitive and familiar operation
The Z 7 and Z 6 have inherited the superior operability that Nikon has cultivated over the years through its development of cameras. The bodies are compact, while boasting a firm grip that is easy to hold, and the sub-selector and buttons such as AF-ON, ISO, and exposure compensation are all placed so that they can be operated swiftly and easily. Additionally, a display panel has been placed on the top plate of the camera, where information about settings can be displayed, similar to high-end digital SLR camera models.
- Video functions such as 10-bit N-Log that enables wide dynamic range, and timecoding that respond to professional needs
The Z 7 and Z 6 support recording of not only full-frame 4K UHD (3840 × 2160)/30p movies using the FX-based video format, but also Full-HD/120p movies. Sharper 4K UHD movies are made possible, using the full-pixel readout4. Additionally, Active D-Lighting, electronic vibration reduction, and focus peaking can be used with 4K UHD and Full-HD movie recording. Nikon’s original N-Log color profile can also be used with 10-bit5 HDMI output. The N-Log setting utilizes extensive color depth and twelve-stop, 1,300% dynamic range to record a wealth of tone information from highlights and shadows for more effective color grading. Timecode support makes synchronizing video and sound from multiple devices easier. Additionally, the control ring built into NIKKOR Z lenses can be used to quietly and smoothly adjust settings such as aperture and exposure compensation.
- Nikon’s first6 in-camera vibration reduction with approx. 5.0-stop7 effectiveness
The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with in-camera vibration reduction (VR). The VR unit provides compensation for movement along five axes. The effects of vibration reduction are equivalent to a shutter speed up to approximately 5.0 stops6. This function can also be used effectively with NIKKOR F lenses, including those not equipped with a VR function, with the Mount Adapter FTZ (sold separately)8.
- Other features
- Same level of strength and durability, as well as dust- and drip- resistance, as the Nikon D850, offered in a compact body
- A 3.2-in., approximately 2100k-dot touch-sensitive LCD monitor, with a tilting mechanism
- Silent photography function eliminates shake and noise caused by shutter release,
- Peaking stack image function9 enables confirmation of the area in focus after shooting using focus shift, which is convenient for focus stacking10
- High-speed continuous shooting (extended)11 at approximately 9 fps (Z 7) and 12 fps (Z 6) captures fast motion
- Interval timer photography that makes 8K (Z 7) time-lapse movie creation10 possible
- An extended low-light metering range12 allows users to easily capture scenes such as the transition from sunset to starry night sky, using aperture-priority auto exposure
- Built-in Wi-Fi® for direct connection to a smart device using SnapBridge
- Built-in Wi-Fi® makes the transfer of images and movies to a computer possible
- Support for existing digital SLR camera accessories such as the EN-EL15/a/b batteries, WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (available separately) for transferring images and movies at high speed over a wired or wireless LAN, and radio-controlled/optical controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting, which makes flexible multi-flash photography possible
Development of the MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack
The MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack that is currently in development will hold two EN-EL15b, effectively increasing the number of shots possible and/or movie recording time by approximately 1.8×. It will provide the same level of dust and drip resistance as the Z 7 and Z 6, and will support USB charging using the EH-7P Charging AC Adapter. Information regarding the release of this product will be announced at a later date.
Price and Availability
The Nikon Z 7 will be available September 27 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 3399.95* for the body-only configuration, or for $ 3999.95* SRP as a kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-70 f/4 S lens. The Nikon Z 6 will be available in late November for the $ 1995.95* SRP for the body only configuration, or for the $ 2,599.95* SRP with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens kit. For more information on these and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
- Within interchangeable lenses for Nikon SLR cameras and Advanced Cameras with Interchangeable Lens.
- With FX (36×24) image area and single-point AF enabled.
- Mid-range sharpness adjustment is only possible at “High quality” movie setting.
- DX-based movie format with the Z 7.
- Simultaneous recording of 4K UHD movies with 10-bit output to the camera’s memory card is not possible.
- Among interchangeable-lens cameras.
- Measured in accordance with CIPA standards (using the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, with zoom set at the maximum telephoto position)
- The level of compensation achieved when a NIKKOR F mount lens is used is not as high as that of a NIKKOR Z lens
- Can only be confirmed using the camera with which focus shift was performed.
- Third-party software is required.
- Continuous H (extended) in 12-bit RAW, JPEG, or TIFF format.
- With interval timer shooting or time-lapse movie recording with silent photography and exposure smoothing enabled.
Nikon Z 6 specifications
| Price | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $ 1995 (body only), $ 2599 (w/24-70 F4 lens) |
| Body type | |
| Body type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless |
| Body material | Magnesium alloy |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 6048 x 4024 |
| Other resolutions | 3936 x 2624 (DX crop), 4016 x 4016 (1:1), 6048 x 3400 (16:9) |
| Image ratio w:h | 1:1, 5:4, 3:2, 16:9 |
| Effective pixels | 25 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 28 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Full frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Processor | Expeed 6 |
| Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800) |
| Boosted ISO (minimum) | 50 |
| Boosted ISO (maximum) | 204800 |
| White balance presets | 12 |
| Custom white balance | Yes (6 slots) |
| Image stabilization | Sensor-shift |
| Image stabilization notes | 5-axis |
| CIPA image stabilization rating | 5 stop(s) |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Fine, normal, basic |
| File format |
|
| Optics & Focus | |
| Autofocus |
|
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 273 |
| Lens mount | Nikon Z |
| Focal length multiplier | 1× |
| Screen / viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3.2″ |
| Screen dots | 2,100,000 |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.8× |
| Viewfinder resolution | 3,690,000 |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
| Exposure modes |
|
| Built-in flash | No |
| External flash | Yes (via hot shoe) |
| Flash modes | Front-curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, off |
| Flash X sync speed | 1/200 sec |
| Continuous drive | 12.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes (2, 5, 10 or 20 secs) |
| Metering modes |
|
| Exposure compensation | ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Videography features | |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Modes |
|
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | XQD card |
| Connectivity | |
| USB | USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec) |
| USB charging | Yes |
| HDMI | Yes (micro HDMI) |
| Microphone port | Yes |
| Headphone port | Yes |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | 802.11ac + Bluetooth |
| Remote control | Yes (via MC-DC2 or smartphone) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | EN-EL15b lithium-ion battery & charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 330 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 675 g (1.49 lb / 23.81 oz) |
| Dimensions | 134 x 101 x 68 mm (5.28 x 3.98 x 2.68″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | Yes |
| GPS | None |
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
The Galaxy S9 Plus’ camera is its third most expensive component
20
Mar
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Last week the team at iFixit undertook a teardown of the brand new Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus to examine and evaluate the device’s repairability. Now analysts TechInsights have done the same thing, but with a focus on components and costs.
When taking the device apart the team found Samsung’s Fast 2L3 third-generation 12MP, 1.4 µm pixel-pitch Dual Pixel ISOCELL sensor in the main camera and a 12MP, 1.0 µm pixel-pitch Samsung S5K3M3SM in the tele-camera, the same as in the Galaxy Note 8 dual-camera module.
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TechInsights also provides cost estimates for all components and at $ 48 the Samsung’s camera setup is the third largest cost block on the device. Only the display at $ 72.50 and the main chipset at $ 68 have a higher impact on the overall figure. Final assembly and testing is estimated as $ 12.50, and the overall manufacturing cost of the device is $ 379.
Given in the US the S9 Plus currently retails at $ 840 unlocked, this should leave a decent margin for covering overheads and, crucially, making a profit. For more technical details and up-close images of most components have a look at the full report on TechInsights.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
The most expensive camera in the world: 1923 Leica sells for $2.97M at auction
12
Mar
A private collector in Asia just bought her or himself the most expensive camera ever sold at auction, making away with an ultra-rare Leica 0-series no. 122 for the mind-boggling price of €2.4 million (approximately $ 2.97M USD, or £2.15M)—a sum reached when you combine the hammer price of €2 million with the €400,000 premium.
The auction took place on Saturday at the famed WestLicht auction house in Vienna, where Leica majority owner and chairman of the board Andreas Kaufmann was there to watch the record be set.
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| Leica 0-series no. 122 | Photo: WestLicht |
According to WestLicht, the astronomical price “reflects the camera’s fantastic original condition.” Only 25 of these ‘test’ cameras were produced by Ernst Leitz in 1923—two years before the first Leica camera was officially brought to market—and WestLicht claims that of those 25, only three are known to still be in ‘original condition.’
Speaking of which: this sale beat the former €2.16 million (~$ 2.67M USD) record price paid for another Leica 0-series (no. 116) in 2012.
Press Release
The Most Expensive Camera Ever
Leica camera sold for 2,400,000 Euro (USD 2,976,000) at WestLicht record auction
The 32nd WestLicht Camera Auction brought not one but two record winning results. With the new world record price of 2.4 million Euro (2 million hammer price plus premium) the Leica 0-series no. 122 is the World’s most expensive camera to date. Furthermore, the auction turned out to be the most successful one in the rich history of the Vienna auction house.
The Leica 0-series had started at a price of 400,000 Euro and rose to a result 6 times higher. A private collector from Asia emerged as the winner from the exciting bidding war. The remarkable price certainly also reflects the camera’s fantastic original condition. In 1923, two years before the first Leica was introduced to the market, Ernst Leitz produced 25 of this test camera, only three of which are known to still be in the original condition.
The previous record holder, a Leica 0-series with no. 116, was also auctioned at WestLicht in 2012 for 2.16 million Euro. Peter Coeln, WestLicht founder: “The outstanding result once again emphasizes the international leading position of our auction house”. Leica majority owner and chairman of the board Andreas Kaufmann added: “This world record price of 2.4 million Euro demonstrates the ongoing and ever-growing myth of the Leica brand.”
A further excellent result was achieved by another Leica camera from the famous collection of Jim Jannard (founder of Oakley): A Leica MP-89 black paint climbed from a starting price of 120,000 to 456,000 Euro. A Leica MP-2, the first camera with electric motor drive, changed ownership for 432,000 Euro. For the comparatively moderate sum of 48,000 Euro a collector purchased the Hasselblad Lunar Surface SWC which was manufactured for the Apollo missions.
The overall sales rate of the 32nd WestLicht Camera Auction was at 91% of the 530 lots, with close to 100% among the Leica items.
Next WestLicht Auction is scheduled for November this year.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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