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Posts Tagged ‘improved’

SD Express 8.0 announced, promising speeds up 4GB/s and improved performance

21 May

The SD Association (SDA) has announced the SD Express 8.0 (SD8.0) specification, promising up to transfer speed of up to 4GB/s (2GB/s per lane up to two lanes). The SD8.0 spec is built on the PCIe 4.0 standard and uses NVM Express (NVMe) technology.

It builds on the previous 7.0 specification that used PCIe 3.0, which powers the rival CFexpress format. The newest format can either deliver up to 2GB/s transfers with the PCIe 4.0 standard over a single lane using the familiar SD card format with two rows of pins (a combination denoted as PCIe G4L1 in the diagram below), or using PCIe 3.0 across two lanes (PCIe G3L2) which will add a third row of connection pins. The 4GB/s transfer speeds will be delivered by PCIe G4L2 cards using PCIe 4.0 transfer across two lanes (and three rows of pins).

SD Express speed comparison chart. Click to enlarge. Image credit: SD Association

The SDA, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, believes the new SD Express standard will create additional variety in the market and allows manufacturers to make the most of the increased speeds of SD Express to produce more storage choices for consumers. Additionally, the SDA states that SD 8.0 ‘may open even more opportunities for extra high-performance solutions using removable memory cards.’ Importantly, as with all SDA advancements, the SD 8.0 specification maintains backward compatibility across previous generations.

SD8.0 is arriving nearly two years after the SD 7.0 (SD7.0) spec was released in July 2018. The SD7.0 specification introduced PCIe 3.1 and NVMe architecture to SD cards. In February 2019, the SDA introduced the microSD Express 7.1 specification.

Camera and card makers haven’t yet made use of the UHS-III format set out in the older SD6.0 specification

Notably, camera and card makers haven’t yet made use of the UHS-III format set out in the older SD6.0 specification. Memory card manufacturer Sandisk has already shown mockups of SD Express (SD7.0) cards, which raises the possibility that the industry will skip the UHS-III specification entirely.

An alternative memory card format, the CFexpress standard, has been increasing in adoption due to its impressive speeds and performance. CFexpress cards can utilize up to four lanes and currently can deliver 1GB/s speeds per lane. However, the current CFexpress 2.0 standard, announced in February 2019, promised comparable speeds using four PCIe 3.0 lanes to the ones that SD 8.0 will get from two v4.0 lanes

It will be interesting to see when CFExpress standards adopt a PCIe 4.0 interface, as the SDA and CFA continue to be in a memory card arms race. If history has proven anything, it’s that it will take some time before the new standards, and the accompanying performance increases, are commonplace in consumer products. However, the new SD8.0 spec lays impressive groundwork technology for faster cameras and improved workflows for photographers and videographers.

For additional information on SD8.0, the SDA has launched a ‘virtual trade show.’ You can explore it by clicking here.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Capture One releases Nikon-specific version, also adds improved clone and healing brushes

18 May

Earlier this month, Capture One teased a variety of new features in an upcoming free update to Capture One 20. Today, this free update has been released to all existing Capture One 20 users. Further, Capture One has released a new dedicated version of their software specifically for Nikon users, Capture One for Nikon.

The new Nikon version of Capture One follows the same pattern as existing Fujifilm and Sony versions, meaning that the software will only work with files from Nikon cameras. Profiles for each supported Nikon camera have been specifically built for Capture One by the software team in Denmark using an exhaustive lab-based process. Further, the Vivid, Neutral, Standard, Landscape and Monochrome profiles in Nikon’s cameras are supported, allowing Capture One for Nikon to match the colors you see on your camera.

The list of supported Nikon cameras is exhaustive and includes the company’s DSLR and mirrorless Z cameras. Many cameras also support tethered capture. You can view the full list of supported cameras and features by clicking here.

Returning to the newly-released update for all versions of Capture One 20, we were previously shown the new heal and clone brushes plus an improved before/after viewer. The revised healing and clone brushes now create dedicated healing and clone layers, respectively, and utilize more intelligent source point technology. You can also now utilize as many source points per layer as you desire with no discernible impact on performance.

With respect to the before/after view, users can now click a button in the toolbar to select from new before/after view modes. This is a much simpler and more streamlined process than in prior versions of Capture One and can be used across multiple images at varying zoom levels.

Capture One has released additional videos showing off these new features, which you can view below:

Another new feature that was not shown off during Capture One’s livestream in early May is an improved Lightroom Catalog Import tool. The tool now allows for importing files located on disconnected drives. Capture One will automatically import the files once the drive has been connected. Further, when importing a Lightroom catalog, some basic image adjustments and catalog structure can be imported into Capture One 20. To see how this works, refer to a new video tutorial from Capture One below.

The update to Capture One 20 is available now at no cost for all existing users. If you don’t own Capture One 20 and would like to try it, there is a free trial available on Capture One’s website.

Capture One 20 is available both as a subscription and as a lifetime license. An annual subscription is $ 180 USD and a lifetime license for new users is $ 299 USD. For a full pricing breakdown and to view additional bundles, click here. Further, there is an ongoing promotion for new purchasers, allowing for 12-month access to SmugMug Portfolio or Power plans, depending on their selected product.

Capture One for Nikon can be purchased for $ 9.99 USD per month, $ 99 per year or as a perpetual license for $ 129.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Epson announces new and improved 13″ SureColor P700, 17″ P900 photo printers

22 Apr

Epson has announced a pair of new SureColor photo printers, the SureColor P700 and the SureColor P900. These printers print up to 13″ and 17″ wide respectively and are replacing the SureColor P600 and P800 printers in Epson’s lineup.

The P700 and P900 introduce a variety of new features, some of which were introduced in the large format SureColor P7570 and P9570 printers Epson announced last October. Like these larger printers, the P700 and P900 include a new internal light for checking on your prints as they’re being made and a 4.3″ touch screen control panel. While the P700 and P900 do not have the 12 channel print head of their larger siblings, they do include a new 10 channel MicroPiezo AMC Print Head which features dedicated channels for Matte Black and Photo Black ink. This is a big deal for Epson printers as previous generations of printers required time-consuming (and ink-consuming) black ink switching when moving from glossy to matte photo paper.

Shown here is the ink set for the Epson SureColor P700 printer. These cartridges are 25mL each. The cartridges for the P900 are larger and are 50mL each. Image credit: Epson

The SureColor P700 and P900 printers include a new set of Epson UltraChrome PRO10 inks. Epson states that the new inks deliver up to a 6 percent wider color gamut than the P600 and P800 printers. Further, they include a new violet ink channel, which will improve the appearance of blues, violets and purples in your prints. Epson is known for their industry-leading print permanence, and the new ink set continues this trend, promising longevity up to 200 years for color prints and 400 years for black and white prints.

Speaking of black and white prints, the Epson P700 and P900 include a new Carbon Black printing mode, which increases the DMAX by up to 11 percent versus the SureColor P800. The special driver mode is optimized for glossy and metallic glossy media and produces what Epson calls a “rich, ‘wet’ looking black.” This mode uses the existing Light Gray ink channel and does not require a dedicated ink channel, such as Canon’s Chroma Optimizer.

Epson SureColor P900 printer. Image credit: Epson

Considering the printers themselves, let’s look at the new 4.3″ touchscreen user interface. This new control panel is user customizable, including in terms of color and the information displayed. The panel can also show a live preview of the image you are printing. Settings shown on the touchscreen panel include the internal light option, network settings, errors and warnings, print job status and remaining time, media type and loading options, ink levels and more. Regarding network settings, the SureColor P700 and P900 printers include new 2.4 and 5 GHz wireless functionality.

The SureColor P700 and P900 printers are also much more compact than their predecessors. They are up to 30 percent smaller than the printers they are replacing. In fact, the new SureColor P900, despite printing up to 17″ wide rather than 13″ wide, is the same size as the outgoing SureColor P600. Specifically, the P700 is 20″ wide and the P900 is 24″ wide. They have respective minimum depths of 20.8″ and 23.1″.

Epson SureColor P700 and P900 printer dimensions. Click to enlarge the image. Image credit: Epson

As mentioned, the SureColor P700 supports 13″ wide media. Core media up to 2″ is supported. The P700 includes an include rear roll media feed, allowing for roll printing up to 10 ft. long. When loading sheet media from the top, the P700 can hold between 10 and 30 sheets at a time. There is also no need for a second Fine Art tray anymore; you can load all accepted paper via the single top load tray. The printer can accept media up to 1.5mm thick.

The SureColor P900 accepts 17″ wide media and supports both 2″ and 3″ cored roll media via an optional enclosed roll media adapter. Like the P700, there is a single top lead sheet tray now, which can accept between 10 and 30 sheets of paper and papers up to 1.5mm thick. In the case of both the P700 and P900, there is no built-in cutter.

To summarize, the key features of the new Epson SureColor P700 and P900 printers are as follows:

  • UltraChrome PRO10 10-color ink technology with up to a 6 percent wider color gamut than the SureColor P600 and P800 printers.
  • New MicroPiezo AMC print head with dedicated channels for photo black and matte black. This means no more black ink switching when changing paper types.
  • Carbon Black Overcoat technology results in improved black density on glossy media.
  • Dramatically smaller physical size compared to the P600 and P800 printers.
  • New 4.3″ touchscreen control panel.
  • Improved media feeding options.

The Epson SureColor P700 and P900 printers are now available to order with shipment expected to begin in early May. The estimated MSRP for the new P700 and P900 printers are $ 799 and $ 1,195 respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon EOS R: much improved for people and portraits

21 Apr

We’ve re-tested the Canon EOS R, using firmware v1.6 and updated the review. We’ve given particular focus to the Eye AF feature and have investigated both its performance and operation, which boost the camera’s score and makes it much easier to shoot portraits.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rogue releases new FlashBender v3 with better compatibility and improved usability

28 Mar

Rogue Photographic Design has released a new version of its popular FlashBender shapeable reflectors and softboxes for speedlights. The FlashBender v3 (shown above in the large size) incorporates numerous new features and improvements when compared to the v2, including a new internal mesh structure, quick-release buckle and more.

While the FlashBender v2 was compatible with strobes and speedlights of many sizes, the new v3 has been designed for even more compatibility. With its new grippier attachment strap, the v3 can fit strobes as small as 17cm (6.7″) and as large as 43cm (17″). The v2 could fit flashes and strobes from 19cm (7.5″) to just under 25cm (9.75″).

Rogue lists a variety of compatible flashes on its website, including speedlights from Canon, Godox, Nikon, Nissin, Olympus, Profoto and Sony. The mount is incorporated into the FlashBender v3 itself, so there’s no need for additional accessories or mounts when attaching the v3 to your flash.

With its new internal mesh structure, the FlashBender v3 can be more easily shaped to your needs and is better at maintaining its position. Compared to the v2, the FlashBender v3 makes it easier to shape and direct light where you need it.

Compared to the Rogue FlashBender v2 (left), the FlashBender v3 (right) has an improved strap and quick-release buckle. The new v3 is also compatible with a wider range of flashes and strobes than its predecessor. With its new internal mesh structure, the FlashBender v3 allows for better control over the direction of light than the v2 as well.

The FlashBender v3 maintains the same compact form factor as its predecessor, ensuring that you can easily fold it in half to pack it away when transporting your gear. To make the FlashBender v3 even easier to use, it incorporates a new quick-release buckle. One minor tradeoff for the improved usability and design is that the FlashBender v3 weighs slightly more than its predecessor. For example, the FlashBender v3 Large Reflector weighs 170g (6oz), whereas the v2 weighs 135g (4.8oz).

For those unfamiliar with the Rogue FlashBender, it is available in various configurations, including a large reflector, large softbox, small reflector, small softbox and an XL pro lighting system. With the reflector kits, you can use the FlashBender v3 to reflect and soften the light from your speedlight or strobe, allowing you to easily set up main, background, accent or hair lights. You can also use the FlashBender to easily direct and bounce light off existing reflective surfaces, such as a white ceiling. Compared to a diffuser, the FlashBender allows for more control of where your light is directed, allowing the photographer to opt for lower power settings or be able to take better photos in direct outdoor sunlight.

The FlashBender v3 softbox kits come with a FlashBender v3 reflector and also includes a diffusion panel, allowing you to create even softer light and eliminate bounce flash if you are working in an area with off-color ceilings. When using FlashBender v3, either attached to an on-camera flash or when using off-camera remote flash, you can shape it to create a reflector/gobo, snoot (tube) or softbox.

The Rogue FlashBender v3 is available in an XL Pro Lighting System kit (shown here) for $ 119.95. This kit comes with an extra-large Pro Reflector v3, extra-large Pro Diffuser v3 and Rogue’s Pro Strip Grid v3.

The Rogue FlashBender v3 is available in the following kits: Large Reflector ($ 44.95 USD), Large Soft Box Kit ($ 59.95), Small Reflector ($ 39.95), Small Soft Box Kit ($ 49.95) and XL Pro Lighting System ($ 119.95). The softbox kits include a reflector plus a diffusion panel. The XL Pro Lighting System includes an extra-large Pro Reflector v3, Pro Diffusion Panel v3 and Pro Strip Grid v3. For owners of the FlashBender or FlashBender v2, it is worth noting that existing versions of Rogue Diffusion Panels are not compatible with the new hook and loop modifications on the FlashBender v3.

For more information on the new Rogue FlashBender v3, visit the Rogue Photographic Design website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 released, delivering improved user interface and better performance

20 Mar

ON1 has announced that the new version of ON1 Photo RAW 2020 is available now. ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 includes new user interface updates, new features, performance enhancements, and new camera and lens support.

For photo editing improvements, ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 includes improved highlight recovery. The software utilizes a new algorithm, which promises better recovery in highlight areas while maintaining more accurate hues. Further, ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 now includes the ability to quickly edit a single image. You can drag the photo onto the application to edit a single image, with results saved non-destructively. A finished file is then ready to share without any fuss.

ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 includes a new highlight recovery algorithm. The algorithm has been designed to deliver better highlight recovery with more natural colors.

If you enjoy using focus stacking techniques, ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 includes a new focus stacking algorithm. The focus stacking tool also provides users with additional options to control the output.

The user interface has seen numerous improvements. There is a new and improved map view, which incorporates higher quality maps and improved search results. In the metadata pane in the new version of Photo RAW 2020, there is now a location tab and users can sync location metadata across multiple selected photos.

Inside the Browse section of the user interface, fast browse mode and cataloged folders mode now have their own tabs. There is also a new Copy to Catalog Folders option, which works like a quick import function to copy your photos from one location to another.

To help you find your images faster than ever before, ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 has enhanced search features. There is now a simple search at the top of the Browse section. Users can now choose which cataloged folders to search as well, rather than searching all of them simultaneously.

Browsing large folders of images, such as hundreds or thousands of images from a single shoot, should be quicker in ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1. It is now faster to scroll through large groups of thumbnails images, rather than needing to wait for the thumbnails to appear on your screen.

Other speed improvements include a much simpler and quicker initial setup for first-time ON1 Photo RAW users. There’s also a new ‘getting started’ dialogue that guides new users through the process of finding images and making the first edit.

ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 adds support for a number of new cameras and lenses. Newly supported cameras include the Fujifilm X-T4, Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, Nikon D780, Nikon Z50, Canon EOS 1D X Mark III, Panasonic Lumix S1H, Sony A9 II and more. New lenses from Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Meike, Minolta, Nikon, Panasonic, Sigma, Sony, Voigtlander and Zeiss are now supported as well. To view the full list of new cameras and lenses supported in ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1, click here.

To celebrate the launch of ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1, ON1 is offering a special promotional 20 percent discount for new users. Upgrades from prior versions of ON1 Photo RAW can be purchased for $ 63.99 USD. New users can buy ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 for $ 79.99. If you already have ON1 Photo RAW 2020, the latest 2020.1 update is available for free. Release notes and download links are available here. For more information on ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1, visit ON1.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DxO PhotoLab 3.2 introduces improved local adjustment tools, new camera support and more

19 Mar

DxO PhotoLab 3 has been updated to version 3.2. The free update includes numerous improvements plus raw file support for five new cameras. Long known for its local adjustment tools, DxO PhotoLab 3.2 introduces new Duplicate and Rename features in the Local Adjustments Palette. The Repair Tool, used to remove distracting elements from your image, has a new display mode for better visibility. DxO PhotoLab 3.2 includes new multi-image keywords, plus Windows users now have access to renaming functionality.

Regarding improved local adjustment mask management, with the new Duplicate and Rename features, users can reproduce masks from image to image. Once applied to a new image, the mask can then be adapted as needed for each image. To aid in easy identification of individual masks you have created, DxO PhotoLab 3.2 adds the ability to rename your masks. You can also quickly move each mask with a single click when using the brush tool.

DxO PhotoLab 3.2 introduces new Duplicate and Rename functionality for local adjustment masks. Image credit: DxO

The simplified Repair Tool display mode interface has been redesigned to allow the user to see more of the background when removing objects. This means that it will be easier to make accurate and realistic looking repairs to your images. The area being retouched is now outlined with a thin line, as can be seen in the screenshot below.

The Repair tool in DxO PhotoLab 3.2 has a simplified repair tool user interface. This introduces a new thin white outline surrounding the area being retouched. Image credit: DxO

In prior versions of DxO PhotoLab 3, users could add and delete individual keywords. In PhotoLab 3.2, users can now differentiate between keywords that are tagged to multiple images. As mentioned earlier, Windows users can also now rename keywords.

In DxO PhotoLab 3.2, users can differentiate between keywords that are tagged to multiple images. Image credit: DxO

DxO PhotoLab is well regarded for its excellent and powerful optical corrections, which are customized by the DxO team for different camera and lens combinations. DxO PhotoLab 3.2 introduces support for five new cameras: The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, Nikon D780, Olympus E-M1 Mark III, Leica D-Lux 7 and Leica Q2. Nearly 770 new optical modules have been added in DxO PhotoLab 3.2, which now includes more than 60 million different camera and lens combinations.

For existing DxO PhotoLab 3 users, the 3.2 update is available free of charge. For new customers, DxO PhotoLab 3.2 is available in Essential and Elite editions. To learn more about which version is best for you, click here to see a breakdown of version differences. With the new 3.2 update, DxO has introduced special pricing for new users. Until March 31, new users can purchase DxO PhotoLab 3.2 Essential for $ 99.99 USD or the Elite edition for $ 149.99. These are savings of $ 30 and $ 50 respectively. For more information or to download a free trial of the software, visit DxO.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New firmware brings improved AF usability: Read our updated Nikon Z6 and Z7 reviews

13 Mar

Nikon’s release of firmware 3.0 for its Z6 and Z7 cameras is significant. Not just for the changes it brings, but the significance of those changes in the context of the company’s history. Like Canon, Nikon has historically brought DSLR cameras to market that you could be sure would work exactly the same in ten years as the day you bought it. There simply wasn’t any expectation that you would gain additional features, refinements or enhancements over the life of the product.

But times have changed, and with the Z6 and Z7, Nikon has clearly taken industry feedback to heart. Of course, this isn’t the first major firmware update for these cameras – firmware 2.0 brought us eye detect autofocus – but 3.0 changes some of the autofocus system’s fundamental operation in an attempt to make it more familiar to users of the company’s DSLR cameras.

Alright, enough with the pontificating. Here’s what firmware 3.0 brings to the table.

Refined autofocus tracking implementation

The most significant change in FW 3.0 (to us, anyway) is the refinement in the behavior of the Z6 and Z7’s tracking autofocus. Up until now, you had to hit the ‘OK’ button while in the Auto AF area mode to bring up the tracking box. You could place that over your subject and initiate autofocus, and it would track around the frame. But when you released the shutter button (or AF On button), the box would continue to track your subject until you canceled it with the ‘OK’ button, and then the tracking box would reset to the center of the frame, regardless of whether you’d moved it around before initiating autofocus. You then exited tracking with the ‘Zoom out’ button.

You can now have either the Fn1 or Fn2 buttons initiate tracking AF. Our opinions on staff differ, but I personally find these buttons fall naturally under my middle and ring fingers, and are easy to press.

Now, with FW 3.0, you have the option to assign Tracking mode to one of the Fn buttons on the front of the camera, which are easier to manipulate with the camera to your eye. And once you’ve initiated tracking, releasing the shutter or AF On buttons will see the camera cease tracking, and the box return to wherever it was when you initiated tracking.

It actually makes a remarkable difference in everyday shooting, and we’ve found that we can use the Z6 and Z7 more comfortably, and in a similar way to how we’re used to shooting with Nikon’s DSLRs.

It’s not quite perfect though. Firstly, if you enter playback or menus, or power-cycle the camera, you’re back into non-tracking Auto area AF mode. We’d love to see it remember your chosen mode or, better still, be offered as a distinct AF area mode. Secondly, initiating tracking on a face does not switch to face and eye-detection, as it does on Sony and Canon cameras with the latest firmware.

But on the whole, it’s a welcome improvement and makes the Z6 and Z7 much more usable, further improving on cameras that already had great ergonomics and handling. We discuss how this new behavior interacts with the cameras’ other AF features in our Nikon Z7 review.

Pet eye detection and CFExpress

Firmware 3.0 also brings the ability to focus on the eyes of pets, for all you pet portraitists out there. Depending on the pet (in essence, on how similar their eyes looked to human eyes) some Z6 and Z7 users with the old firmware might have found that their cameras already did a decent job of this, but now it’s official. With Firmware 3.0 you get more reliable and stable pet detection tracking, when you enable the requisite menu function.

Lastly, the Z6 and Z7 cameras are now compatible with CFExpress cards. This won’t impact you too much if you already have a bunch of XQD cards laying around, but CFExpress is the future, and broader compatibility is always a plus.

The reviews

Our reviews of both the Z6 and Z7 now have updated autofocus sections, updated conclusions, and we made tweaks to the scoring. Neither received a higher overall numerical score – they both scored very highly to begin with – but the ‘metering and focus’ category of the scoring widget has received a noticeable boost on both. We’ve also updated our Pros and Cons lists at the top of the conclusion pages to reflect the changes.

To see all the changes for yourself, hop on over to our full Nikon Z6 and Z7 full reviews.

Read our Nikon Z6 review

Read our Nikon Z7 review

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Affinity Photo 1.8 update adds CR3 support, improved plugin support, better metadata handling and more

27 Feb

Serif has announced an update to its Affinity suite of software, including a version 1.8 update to Affinity Photo. Although not a major overhaul, the update does bring a number of much-requested features and changes.

One of the most welcomed changes in the Affinity 1.8 update is the addition of CR3 support. Now, Canon users can open images captured in Canon’s newest Raw file format. The update also improves lens correction tools, which includes the ability for manual correction override and better functionality when correcting Raw images captured with fixed focal length lenses. Serif has also added improved plugin support within Affinity Photo, including support for Nik Collection 2.5 from DxO.

Support for Canon’s CR3 files has been one of the most-requested features for Affinity Photo.

Other updates include new template functionality, a unified toolbar for macOS users and improved metadata handling that allows you to both edit IPTC data and import XMP metadata files for batch editing. The iPad version of Affinity Photo also gains customizable keyboard shortcuts, bringing it more in line with the desktop version of Affinity Photo.

From Affinity: ‘New support in Affinity Photo for user-editable fields in image metadata, including the IPTC standard for copyright and other information. Plus, save and import metadata files (XMP), batch whole folders of images and tag with appropriate ownership info, and more.’

Affinity Photo 1.8 should be available as an update across your desktop and mobile devices that already have it installed. To find out more or to purchase Affinity Photo, which is available on iPadOS, macOS and Windows devices, head over to Serif’s website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm introduces X-T4 with in-body image stabilization and improved battery life

26 Feb

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Fujifilm has announced the long-awaited X-T4, a stills/hybrid that brings a much-desired feature to the X-T range: in-body image stabilization. The IBIS system on the X-T4 can reduce shake by up to six stops on eighteen of the company’s lenses, and up to five stops on the rest. Fujifilm has redesigned the shutter mechanism, which is rated to 300k cycles and is quieter than on the X-T3. The new shutter can support bursts at 15 fps.

While the X-Trans sensor is the same as the X-T3, the autofocus system has received an upgrade, with improved face and eye detection as well as subject tracking. Fujifilm has also added a new Eterna Bleach Bypass Film Simulation mode, support for ‘lossy’ Raw files and additional precision when adjusting tone curves.

The design of the camera has changed in several ways. The LCD is now fully articulating, an AF-On button has been added and the metering switch has been replaced with a stills/video toggle. The grip has been enlarged, the rear control dial protrudes a bit more from the back of the camera and the eyecup is less likely to come off. Settings for stills and videos are now separate, with each mode having their own Q Menu. The X-T4 uses the new NP-W235 battery, which can take 500 shots per charge using the LCD.

On the video front, the camera gains a 240 fps high-speed mode and interface improvements, but the loss of a dedicated headphone socket will not be popular with videophiles: a USB-C dongle must be used. Just like the X-H1, if you want a dongle-less microphone socket, you’ll need to buy the battery grip.

The Fujifilm X-T4 will be available this Spring, in your choice of silver or black. The body-only kit will be priced at $ 1699. When bundled with the 18-55mm F2.8-4 the price is $ 2099, and the 16-80mm F4 kit comes in at $ 2199.

Press release:

INTRODUCING THE FUJIFILM X-T4: CRAFTED FOR THE MODERN IMAGE-MAKER

Valhalla, New York – February 26, 2020 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation is proud to announce the launch of the FUJIFILM X-T4 (hereinafter “X-T4”), a flagship model of the X Series family of mirrorless digital cameras.

The X-T4 is an astounding imaging tool, packing a newly designed IBIS, a quiet new shutter unit, a new vari-angle LCD screen, a new Eterna Bleach Bypass Film Simulation, and a new, large-capacity, battery all into a compact and lightweight camera body. This camera is the perfect tool for today’s image makers and is an ideal multi-functional solution for visual storytellers to use in creating their stories.

More information about the key features of X-T4:

Designed for Quality and Speed

Fujifilm’s state-of-the-art X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 combination sits at this camera’s core, pairing this exceptional, 26.1MP, back-side illuminated sensor with a powerful quad-core CPU to produce images with wide dynamic range and incredible image quality, doing so with lightning-fast processing and precision AF performance, right down to -6EV.

IBIS Puts Stability in the User’s Hands

A huge part of creating great photos or videos is being in the right place at the right time – and that often means making handheld images to get to the heart of the action. X-T4’s five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) provides up to 6.5 stops1 of image stabilization to make sure that, even in the midst of all the excitement, images remain steady and sharp. Combine this with the new four-axis Digital Image Stabilizer, and there’s lots of room to maneuver.

Steady, Reliable Performance

For any serious image maker, having a tool that can be relied upon to perform flawlessly whenever it is required is extremely important. For this reason, X-T4 features a newly developed mechanical shutter that is the fastest and most robust in the history of the X Series. Not only can it make 26.1 Megapixel images at 15 frames per second, but it is also rated for 300,000 actuations. Combined with its larger capacity battery that is capable of up to 600 frames per charge2, X-T4 has the power and the durability to give users the peace of mind that they’ll never miss the perfect opportunity.

Find the Best Angle for the Story

When chasing the perfect image, versatility is key. The 1.62 million pixel vari-angle touchscreen LCD featured on X-T4 can be adjusted to make it visible from a wide range of positions. This not only provides a high-quality monitor to frame with, but also provides quick and simple controls when they’re needed most. On the flip side, there are times when it’s necessary to minimize the light and distractions that a screen can create. That’s why X-T4’s LCD has been designed to easily fold away so it is completely hidden from view, leaving the updated 3.69 million pixel/100fps electronic viewfinder to focus on the moment at hand.

When a Story Needs Movement

The modern image maker is blurring the lines between photography and videography, and X-T4 has been designed to celebrate this new generation of hybrid creativity. With the simple flick of a switch, movie mode is activated, meaning X-T4 is capable of recording both professional-level DCI 4K/60p and Full HD/240p super slow-motion video. It is also possible to record F-Log footage in 10-bit color, straight to the card. What’s more, the innovative AF-C subject tracking works in low-light conditions down to -6EV and the camera’s use of a new, high capacity battery lets content creators push their creative limits.

Powerful Image Manipulation Made Easy

For over 86 years, FUJIFILM Corporation has produced photographic films that have been used by some of the world’s best-known moviemakers to create some of the world’s most successful movies. This legendary reputation in color science is celebrated with the company’s hugely popular selection of film simulation modes, which digitize some of the industry’s most iconic films and puts them right at hand. X-T4 introduces ETERNA Bleach Bypass, the newest addition to the much-loved collection of Film Simulation modes available in the X Series product line, which creates a beautiful de- saturated, high-contrast look that image-makers will find irresistible.

X-T4 will be available in both black and silver and is expected to be available for sale in Spring 2020 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 1,699.95 USD and $ 2,199.99 CAD.

Fujifilm X-T4 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 1699 (body only), $ 2099 (w/18-55mm lens), $ 2199 (w/16-80mm lens)
Body type
Body type SLR-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 6240 x 4160
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 26 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
Sensor type BSI-CMOS
Processor X-Processor 4
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array X-Trans
Image
ISO Auto, 160-12800 (expands to 80-51200)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 80
Boosted ISO (maximum) 51200
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes (3 slots)
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes Some lenses limited to 5 stops of correction
CIPA image stabilization rating 6.5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, normal
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (14-bit RAF)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 425
Lens mount Fujifilm X
Focal length multiplier 1.5×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 1,620,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 1.125× (0.75× 35mm equiv.)
Viewfinder resolution 3,690,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/32000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe or flash sync port)
Flash X sync speed 1/250 sec
Drive modes
  • Single
  • Continuous (L/H)
  • Bracketing
Continuous drive 20.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Average
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±5 (2, 3, 5, 7 frames at 1/3 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264, H.265
Modes
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 30p / 400 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 25p / 400 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 400 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 400 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 240p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots (UHS-II supported)
Connectivity
USB USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via smartphone or wired remote)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description NP-W235 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 500
Weight (inc. batteries) 607 g (1.34 lb / 21.41 oz)
Dimensions 135 x 93 x 84 mm (5.31 x 3.66 x 3.31″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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