Canon recently announced an EOS R6 firmware update to address overheating issues. Does firmware 1.1.1 improve the camera’s video performance? Quite a bit, it turns out.
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As it said it would at the beginning of October, Fujifilm has released a firmware update for its XT3 camera that it claims will dramatically improve autofocus performance.
Firmware version 4.00 for the XT-3 claims to triple the autofocus speed from 0.06 seconds down to 0.02 seconds, bringing it in line with the autofocus speed of the newer X-T4. The algorithm that predicts the location of subjects has also been improved, according tot he changelog.
Overall autofocus tracking performance has been doubled (compared to firmware version 3.30), with faster and more accurate subject acquisition. Both Eye AF and Face Tracking have also been given a performance boost with this firmware, doubling the tracking speed according to Fujifilm.
As noted in its initial announcement, this firmware also allows for autofocus performance down to -7 EV when using the new Fujifilm XF 50mm F1 and adds a focus limited option for pre-determining specific focus ranges.
Although much less exciting, the Fujifilm X-H1 has also received a firmware update (version 2.11) that addresses minor bugs.
You can download and find out more information about firmware version 4.00 for the Fujifilm X-T3 and firmware version 2.11 for the Fujifilm X-H1 on Fujifilm’s website.
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In addition to announcing a camera, lens and more, Fujifilm has also revealed it will soon release a free firmware update for its X-T3 that will improve autofocus performance and more.
The firmware update will go live on October 28, according to Fujifilm’s press release. The improvements should see autofocus speeds more than double, taking focus times drop from 0.06 seconds to 0.02 seconds, bringing the X-T3’s autofocus performance more in line with the X-T4.
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Fujifilm says it’s also improved the algorithm for predicting subject movements, which should result in a >90% ‘hit rate.’ The Face Tracking and Eye AF algorithm has also been re-written to double the tracking performance in continuous shooting modes.
Other improvements include the ability to use AF in low light levels down to -7EV with the new Fujinon XF 50mm F1.0 R WR lens, a new ‘Focus Limiter’ feature for setting pre-determined focus ranges, the ability to change the size of Single AF points while recording video and improvements that make it possible for third-party programs to read the ratings applied to pictures in-camera.
We will update this article when the firmware is released.
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Back in February 2019, Nikon announced it was working to develop a firmware update for its D5, D850 and D500 DSLR cameras that would bring support for using CFExpress Type B memory cards. Since then, we haven’t heard a word about these development from Nikon, but Nikon Rumors says it ‘can confirm’ the much-anticipated firmware update will arrive before the end of the year.
According to Nikon Rumors’ report, the firmware update will arrive ‘before the end of 2020.’ Nikon Rumors says Nikon ‘may say something about [these updates]’ this coming week when it launches its Z6 II and Z7 II mirrorless cameras.
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Image credit: B&H Photo |
Despite promising a firmware update, Nikon never confirmed the details of what kind of performance we can expect from CFExpress Type B cards when used with its D5, D850 and D500 DSLR cameras. While CFExpress Type B support will make it easier to use the open and more popular format — not to mentioned larger maximum capacities, since XQD cards top out at 240GB compared to the current 1TB maximum capacity of CFExpress cards — it doesn’t necessarily we’ll expect improved speeds over using XQD cards when using them inside the camera. However, you will see improved speeds over XQD cards when importing the cards to your computer if you’re using a CFExpress Type B memory card reader.
We contacted Nikon for a comment on the updates on Friday October 9, but haven’t received a response. We will update this article if we get any further information from Nikon.
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Canon has released a firmware update (version 1.1.1) for its EOS R6 mirrorless camera that brings with it a number of improvements previously given to the EOS R5 via a version 1.1 firmware update late last month. Additionally, Canon has released a small bug-fix update for the EOS R5 as well.
Starting with more substantial improvements to the EOS R6, firmware version 1.1.1 claims to improve the total recording time on the EOS R6. No specific performance increase metrics are given beyond saying the limit has been ‘improved,’ but we plan to put it to the test to find out.
Other major fixes in the firmware include improved in-lens image stabilization when shooting ‘certain’ RF lenses during movie recording and improved connectivity during FTP transmission. Smaller fixes include improved support with the RF 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 L IS USM lens and a number of menu fixes. You can download firmware version 1.1.1 for the Canon EOS R6 below:
Firmware version 1.1.1 for the EOS R6
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Firmware version 1.1.1 for the EOS R5 is less substantial than the EOS R6 update, but is still worth mentioning and updating to if you’re an EOS R5 owner. The only changes include the same lens compatibility improvements for the RF 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 L IS USM lens as found in the EOS R6 firmware update. Specifically, Canon notes the following changes:
You can download firmware version 1.1.1 for the Canon EOS R5 below:
Firmware version 1.1.1 for the EOS R5
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Alongside its latest camera, the S5, Panasonic has announced a promised firmware update for its existing S-series of full-frame mirrorless cameras. Of greatest significance to the greatest number of users is likely to be enhanced autofocus performance for the S1, S1R and S1H, whether shooting in stills or video. This means the addition of head-detection, so you’re less likely to lose focus on your subject should they turn away momentarily. There’s also the promise of less overall hunting for a better viewfinder experience for shooting stills, and better footage when shooting video.
Speaking of video, the S1R gets a bespoke update, and will be able to capture 5K video. The press release is light on details, so that’s all we really know, but it’s a welcome update nonetheless.
Panasonic says the firmware update will arrive by the end of 2020, and we have to say, we’re pleased to see significant updates making their way into the company’s existing cameras.
Press release:
Newark, NJ – (September 2, 2020) – Panasonic has announced that they will be releasing firmware update programs for the LUMIX Digital Single Lens Mirrorless cameras S1R, S1H and S1 to enhance functions and usability by the end of 2020.
The new firmware enables the S1R to record 5K video, making the most of its high-resolution image sensor. Also, LUMIX’s state-of-the-art AF technology and performance of the new LUMIX S5 will also be available on the S1R, S1H and S1. The upgraded AF notably excels in detection of human and its movement. In addition to the eye, face, body the head is also separately recognized by real-time detection technology to provide even more precise focusing. The camera keeps tracking the subject person even if he/she moves quickly, turns his/her back to the camera, tilts his/her head or moves far away from the camera. On the other hand, improvements to the DFD technology has enhanced AFC, which also enables users to keep tracking small or fast-moving subjects to capture them in crisp focus. Users can take these advantages in both photo shooting and video recording.
Panasonic further addresses technology development and its achievement shall be applied not only to the new products but also to those already released via firmware update.
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In addition to the EOS R5 1.1 firmware update, Canon has also released firmware version 1.2 for the Canon 1D X Mark III. The new firmware improves a number of features and addresses a handful of bug fixes for Canon’s flagship DSLR.
Specifically, Canon says firmware version 1.2 improves face and eye recognition autofocus (AF) at greater distances, improves FTP connectivity during transmission and improves Wi-Fi connectivity when using the Canon EFT-E9 Wireless File Transmitter.
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Canon has also improved the experience when using the Browser Remote and addressed a number of ‘phenomenons’ — AKA bugs — that can occur during viewfinder shooting when specific settings are selected. You can see a full list of the bug fixes in the changelog below.
Firmware version 1.2.0 for the Canon 1DX Mark III is available to download from Canon’s product page.
Changelog:
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A few days ago, DJI released firmware update for the Mavic Air 2 that gives users new capabilities. Coming in at 178.3MB, V01.00.0340 is the first major update since the consumer–grade drone started shipping a little over 3 months ago. It offers up digital zoom, a new hyperlapse resolution, improved obstacle avoidance, and more.
‘We are so excited to bring a unique zooming function to the Mavic Air 2 along with 4K hyperlapse. The zooming feature will help creators add a dynamic perspective to the scene, establish shots and so much more while the 4K hyperlapse offers high-quality content in a manageable format. The Mavic Air 2 continues to be one of the most versatile and capable drones to ever take to the skies,’ says Patrick Santucci, DJI’s Senior Communications Manager.
DPReview recently covered issues encountered when testing out the Mavic Air 2’s 8K hyperlapse feature. So it’s exciting that the drone manufacturer has now made it possible to record 4K hyperlapse clips. Users now have the ability to pause a hyperlapse and then resume recording as well. The number of waypoints you can select when pre-planning a flight has increased to 45 and there is added support for Task Library.
Mavic Air 2 users can now digitally zoom in on a subject. 4K Zoom mode supports 2x digital zoom up to 4K/30p.
Mavic Air 2 users can now digitally zoom in on a subject. 4K Zoom mode supports 2x digital zoom up to 4K/30p. 2x digital zoom is also possible up to 2.7K/60p while full 4x digital zoom is possible up to 1080p/60p in video mode. You can also press the ‘Fn’ button on the remote while using the dial to gradually zoom in and out.
With Obstacle Avoidance, you now have the ability to either bypass obstacles, brake in front of them, or you can turn it off entirely. The option to disable sideways flight is also available. Since the Mavic Air 2 does not have obstacle avoidance sensors on either side of the aircraft (only on the front, back, and bottom), this feature is useful for beginners or those wishing to fly in a straight line, forwards or backwards.
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| It’s easy to update the firmware within the DJI Fly app. |
There are a few other improvements not mentioned above. To install the update, open up the DJI Fly app. You can also use the DJI Assistant 2 desktop app on your computer. At the top right–hand corner, you’ll see three dots. Click on that icon. From the top navigation bar, select ‘About.’ From there it will show you your latest firmware. Select ‘Check for Updates.’ You’ll need a full battery as it can take 10 minutes to install the latest firmware. Full release notes as follows:
• ZOOM – 4K Zoom 2x digital zoom 30/25/24 fps. 2.7 Zoom 2x 60/50/48/30/25/24 and 1080P 4x 60/50/48/30/25/24 in video mode.
• Added Safety Flight Mode. The aircraft avoids obstacles automatically and will not respond to commands to fly left or right.
• Optimized FPV mode for gimbal.
• Optimized hyperlapse. Pause shooting during hyperlapse, increased the number of waypoints to 45, and added support for Task Library.
• Optimized Sports Mode.
• Optimized ActiveTrack when tracking vehicles at low altitude.
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Canon has released new firmware updates for its EOS R camera and a handful of its RF-mount lenses. The updates bring support for Canon’s latest lenses to the EOS R and improve compatibility between the in-lens stabilization and in-body stabilization of the EOS R5 and R6 with RF-mount lenses.
Firmware version 1.7.0 for the Canon EOS R adds support for Canon’s RF 600mm F11 STM, 800mm F11 STM, RF 1.4x teleconverter, RF 2x teleconverter and the new LP-E6NH Battery Pack. No further bug fixes were addressed in this firmware update, but Canon does say the using the EOS R’s multifunction bar in playback mode has been improved.
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Canon has also released updated firmware for seven of its IS-capable RF-mount lenses so they will better work alongside the sensor-shift image stabilization inside Canon’s new R5 and R6 mirrorless cameras. Below are the lenses getting the new update:
You can download firmware version 1.70 for the EOS R and all of the lens firmware updates from Canon Canada’s website, as the Canon USA website is still down due to a recent hack.
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Atomos has announced the full firmware update for its Ninja V monitor/recorder that enables 5.9K ProRes Raw video capture from a Panasonic S1H.
It’s been just one week since the pre-release beta firmware was released alongside Panasonic’s S1H 2.1 firmware update, but the full version is up and ready to go. The full firmware update enables Ninja V units to record 12-bit ProRes Raw video over HDMI at up to 5.9K/29.97p in full-frame, or 4K/59.94p in Super35. Also new is a 3.5K Super35 Anamorphic 4:3 RAW mode that makes it easier to record footage shot on anamorphic lenses.
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To accompany the new recording options, Panasonic has released a new LUT that can be downloaded for free on its website. The Atomos Ninja V firmware update (AtomOS 10.52) can be downloaded from the Ninja V product page, under the ‘Support’ tab.
AtomOS 10.52 press release:
August 7, Melbourne, Australia: Atomos is thrilled to announce the dream of ultra-high resolution RAW video from a full-frame mirrorless camera is now a reality. Last week Atomos launched a Pre-Release Beta for Ninja V users to try out on their Panasonic LUMIX S1H. Today Atomos announces the full firmware update for the Ninja V.
From today Ninja V & Panasonic LUMIX S1H users will be able to record:
Simply stunning 12-bit RAW
The Ninja V captures the unprocessed highly detailed 12-bit RAW signal files directly from the full frame sensor of the S1H over HDMI at up to 5.9K/29.97p in Full-frame, or 4K/59.94p in Super35. These unprocessed files are extremely clean, preserving the maximum dynamic range, color accuracy and every detail from the S1H. The resulting ProRes RAW files allow for greater creativity in post-production with perfect skin tones and easily matched colors, ideal for both HDR and SDR (Rec.709) workflows.
Anamorphic RAW
More and more cinematographers are now choosing to shoot with anamorphic lenses and the Ninja V and S1H combination caters to them with the new 3.5K Super35 Anamorphic 4:3 RAW mode. An even bigger world of cinematic opportunities opens up as the Ninja V and S1H can now be used as an A-camera or smaller B-camera on an anamorphic RAW production.
Improved color pipeline
LUMIX S1H ProRes RAW files recorded to the Ninja V can now benefit from an improved color pipeline in Apple Final Cut Pro X. Panasonic have published a new LUT based workflow that allows the enhanced potential of ProRes RAW files captured from the LUMIX S1H to be realised in the NLE software.
Ninja V advantage
The Ninja V allows users to accurately monitor the RAW signal on its daylight-viewable 5” 1000nit brightness HDR screen. Setup is simple when the camera is attached with perfectly tuned color settings applied automatically. Users can then view the RAW image accurately in HDR in a choice of HLG and PQ (HDR10) formats. The Ninja V offers touchscreen access to tools like waveforms, 1-1 magnification and focus peaking, allowing them to perfect their RAW video. The Ninja V then records the ProRes RAW data onto a removable AtomX SSDmini or other SSD drive. When shooting is complete the drive is removed and connected to a computer via USB for immediate offload and editing.
ProRes RAW the new standard
In addition to their ground-breaking combination of flexibility and performance, Apple ProRes RAW files are smaller than other RAW files – simplifying and accelerating file transfer, media management, and archiving. Even with the new higher 5.9K resolution, ProRes RAW files from the S1H can easily be edited on most modern Macs. ProRes RAW is fully supported in Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premiere Pro along with a collection of other apps including ASSIMILATE SCRATCH, Colorfront, FilmLight Baselight and Grass Valley Edius.
This is available immediately; Ninja V users can download the free AtomOS update for their monitor-recorder directly from the Atomos website.
Over the past few months Atomos has created a series of content pieces with the Ninja V and Panasonic LUMIX S1H, from test footage, to setting up your Ninja V and S1H with PhotoJoseph, to hearing from creators like Stuart Morgan and Krzysztof Sieniawski and their experiences with the great combo of Ninja V & S1H. Please see recent examples below.
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