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Posts Tagged ‘Introduces’

Nisi introduces the ‘Switch,’ a filter system with independently rotating holders

26 Sep

Filter system manufacturer Nisi has introduced a new filter holder that allows photographers to rotate two filters independently of each other, in much the same way that Lee’s Tandem operates. The Nisi Switch attaches to the existing 82mm filter holder and provides an additional rotation point so that the forward filter can be twisted separately to filters in the main holder.

The system is designed for those using graduated filters to make tackling mountainous horizons easier and so that graduated filters can be placed at more than a single angle to allow photographers to control different areas of the scene individually.

The Switch is part of the company’s 100mm filter system and will cost around $ 99. Those without the current 82mm filter holder will also need to buy a V6, a V5Pro or a V5 kit as well. These kits start at $ 169. For more information see the Nisi website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Yuneec introduces new gimbal-stabilized 4K Mantis G drone

05 Sep

On the first day of the annual InterDrone conference in Las Vegas, Yuneec has introduced its latest quadcopter. Aimed specifically at consumers, the Mantis G was created for those wanting to enhance their social media profiles with HD (high-definition) and 4K aerial video or imagery captured from a unique perspective.

The portable and foldable Mantis G weighs one pound, making it ideal for travelers capturing imagery on the fly. It features a gimbal-stabilized camera that can record video up to 4K at 30 frames per second. Photos can be taken on the 13-megapixel camera in either JPG or DNG format.

The Mantis G measures at 10.5 inches, without the propellers, and is being marketed as ‘the perfect upgrade to your Instagram story.’

A maximum 33-minute flight time makes it the longest in its class. The drone can land automatically and be folded up within seconds so consumers can head off to their next adventure. Seamless social media integration allows users to instantly share their media on their social channels.

In the spirit of enabling consumers to capture professional-grade imagery with a creative twist, Yuneec has equipped the Mantis G with Waypoint Mode, which allows users to plot out a specific flight path for the drone, and the Visual Tracking feature that ensures the drone follows its designated target everywhere. For racing enthusiasts, the Mantis G can reach speeds up to 44 miles per hour.

The Mantis G can be controlled with a smartphone, via the controller that is included with the drone, or by voice control. Yuneec has modified its Pilot App to accept new voice commands from flyers. Modified antenna design and redundant frequencies (2.4 and 5 GHz), coupled with the new Smart Streaming feature, guarantee stable communication and signal transmission between the drone and controller.

One notable selling feature on the Mantis G from Yuneec is that any video, photo, or telemetry data will not be transferred or contained on any external servers. Recently, leading manufacturer DJI has released statements denying accusations of doing the same with their consumer data. The Mantis G was developed on open source PX4 code. No Fly Zones surrounding international airports have been integrated into the software, preventing unsafe and illegal flights. GPS and IPS sensors allow it to be flown both indoors and outdoors, making it that much for versatile for content creators.

The Mantis G retails for $ 699 and can be ordered here.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Metabones introduces Speed Booster series for Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera

06 Aug

Lens mount adapter specialist Metabones has launched a new series of Speed Booster lens adapters especially designed for the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K (BMPCC4K). The new adapters allow users to mount Nikon G, Canon EF, Canon EF Cine and Arri PL lenses onto the Micro Four Thirds camera.

The company says it has redesigned the adapters to take account of the filter stack construction that Blackmagic uses on the sensor of this camera to ensure users get the same performance as other MFT users. Blackmagic uses a thinner layer of filters over the sensor of the BMPCC4K, compared to other MFT cameras, that can alter the effectiveness of the standard MFT adapter at wide apertures, the company claims. This means the new models aren’t compatible with other Micro Four Thirds cameras.

The adapters come in Ultra 0.71x and XL 0.64x versions, which reduce the crop factor in 4096 x 2160 4K video to 1.35x and 1.22x respectively. The Arri PL version will only be available as an Ultra 0.71x, but the other mounts can accept either adapter, with the company claiming that many EF-S and DX lenses from Canon and Nikon can also be used.
The Metabones Ultra 0.71x and XL 0.64x adapters are available now. For more information see the Metabones website.

Ultra 0.71x

  • Canon EF – $ 649
  • Canon EF Cine – $ 699
  • Nikon G – $ 489
  • Arri PL – $ 719

XL 0.64x

  • Canon EF – $ 649
  • Canon EF Cine – $ 699
  • Nikon G – $ 489

Press release:

Metabones Introduces a New Series of Speed Booster® for BMPCC 4K Camera

Caldwell Photographic Inc. and Metabones are pleased to announce a new series of Speed Booster for Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K (BMPCC4K).

The BMPCC4K Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x and XL 0.64x are similar to the standard m43 Speed Booster adapters, but the optics have been re-designed to optimize for the filter stack thickness of the Blackmagic cameras, which is substantially thinner than that of standard m43 cameras.

The thickness of the camera’s filter stack is an important component of the overall optical design, and the re-designed optics ensure that both versions can achieve the same high performance as the Speed Booster versions for standard m43. This is especially critical at the extremely large apertures made possible by Speed Booster technology.

In addition to the new optical designs, the new series of Speed Boosters also features a longer tripod mount to perfectly match the height of the BMPCC4K camera body. This way the camera and the Speed Booster can be mounted firmly on the same quick release plate.

Both versions – the Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x and XL 0.64x – are available with Nikon G lens mount, with Canon EF lens mount and with Canon EF CINE lens mount. The ARRI PL lens mount is available in ULTRA 0.71x version only. The Canon EF CINE lens mount creates a positive lock for a secure electronic connection, and together with the matching length of new the tripod mount, allows for a rock-solid mechanical setup, which is important when using follow focus attachments.

This new series of Metabones Speed Booster adapters is designed exclusively for Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K (BMPCC4K). They cannot be attached to any other m43 cameras such as JVC, Olympus or Panasonic cameras.

Metabones Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x for BMPCC4K:
The new Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x for BMPCC4K uses an advanced 6-element 4-group optical design incorporating ultra-high index tantalum-based optical glass. The new design is specifically optimized to bring the same level of astonishing performance as the ULTRA Speed Boosters for Micro Four Thirds to users of the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K.

In particular, the Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x is optimized to correctly account for the BMPCC4K camera’s specific filter stack located near the sensor surface. This is especially critical at the extremely large apertures made possible by Speed Booster technology. As a result of this careful optimization, an enormous range of full-frame optics, ranging from vintage film lenses to the latest digital designs, will function flawlessly when adapted to BMPCC4K bodies.

The Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x reduces the crop factor of the BMPCC4K camera as shown in the above table. The new design for BMPCC4K makes very effective use of exotic materials at the furthest limit of glassmaking technology, and as a result is almost perfectly corrected for use with all full-frame SLR lenses regardless of aperture or exit pupil distance. The Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x will also work extremely well with many DX and APS-C format lenses, provided the image circle provided by the lens is large enough.

Optical performance of the new Speed Boosters is so good that the MTF of any lens attached to it will be improved. Even the latest generation of ultra-high performance SLR lenses such as the Zeiss Otus series can be improved by adding a Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x.

MTF at 10, 20, and 40 lp/mm as a function of image height for output apertures of f/0.9, f/1.0, and f/2.0, respectively1. At the maximum aperture of f/0.90 (i.e., with an f/1.2 master lens) the sharpness and contrast are extraordinary across the entire image circle. At just one-third stop down to f/1.0 the performance is equal to or better than the best photographic lenses used at their optimum apertures. An additional stop down to f/2.0 yields performance that is rarely encountered in photographic optics. In practice, what all of this means is that the new Speed Boosters will always enhance and never degrade the performance of the attached master lens.

And other aspects of optical performance haven’t been sacrificed in order to obtain high MTF, either. There is less than 1 stop of corner illumination falloff even wide-open at f/0.9. There is no vignetting at all after the output aperture reaches f/2.82. Rectilinear distortion added by the Speed Booster ULTRA is negligible at less than 0.7%.

Metabones Speed Booster XL 0.64x for BMPCC4K:
Also this Speed Booster XL 0.64x adapter has been designed exclusively for the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K, with a magnification of 0.64x. The Speed Booster XL 0.64x uses an advanced 7-element optical design to achieve extraordinary optical performance at apertures up to an incredible f/0.80.

The new Speed Booster XL 0.64x reduces the full-frame crop factor of the BMPCC4K as shown in the table further above. In addition, the speed of any attached lens is increased by 11/3 stops, with a maximum output aperture of f/0.80 when an f/1.2 lens is used. For example, a 50mm f/1.2 becomes a 32mm f/0.80, which is the fastest aperture available for Blackmagic cameras.

Perhaps most exciting of all, in addition to increasing lens speed and field of view, the Speed Booster XL 0.64x offers amazingly high image quality even at extremely large apertures. Figures 1 through 3 below show MTF at 10, 20, and 40 lp/mm as a function of image height for output apertures of f/0.8, f/1.1, and f/1.81. At f/0.80 (i.e., with an f/1.2 master lens) the sharpness and contrast are extraordinary out to an image height of 5.1 mm, which is the limiting image height of the BMPCC4K camera’s FHD video mode. Beyond 5.1 mm the performance drops gracefully, but remains very good even in the extreme corner of the full Blackmagic sensor. Note that as the master lens aperture is reduced to f/1.8 and then f/2.8 (corresponding to output apertures of f/1.1 and f/1.8, respectively) the performance improves everywhere, especially in the extreme corners.

And other aspects of optical performance haven’t been sacrificed in order to obtain high MTF, either. There is only about 1 stop of corner illumination falloff even at f/0.8. There is no vignetting at all after the output aperture reaches f/3.42. Rectilinear distortion added by the Speed Booster XL 0.64x is negligible at less than 0.8%.

Just like the Metabones Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x for BMPCC4K, the Speed Booster XL 0.64x is optimized to correctly account for the BMPCC4K camera’s specific filter stack located near the sensor surface. This is especially critical at the extremely large apertures made possible by Speed Booster technology. As a result of this careful optimization, an enormous range of full-frame optics, ranging from vintage film lenses to the latest digital designs, will function flawlessly when adapted to BMPCC4K bodies. In fact, most lenses will have significantly improved MTF when used with the Speed Booster, compared to using them with a plain (i.e. “glassless”) adapter on Blackmagic cameras.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CatLABS introduces FILM 80, a new black and white film in 120 format, sheet film to follow

04 May

US film camera equipment store and distributor CatLABs has introduced its own brand of black and white negative film that it claims is unique and not available anywhere else. CatLABs says its FILM 80 is a classic emulsion along the lines of Kodak’s Panatomic-X with a high silver content and very fine grain.

Obviously Panatomic-X was rated at ASA 32 and this new emulsion isn’t quite as slow, but CatLABS says it can be rated anywhere between ISO 50 and 800 with different processing techniques and it will still produce a wide tonal range. It can be processed in a number of different developers but 9.30 minutes is the quoted time for standard work at ISO 80 in stock solutions of Ilford ID11 or Kodak D76. Agfa Rodinal is recommended for down rating to ISO 50.

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The film is available now in 120 rolls, and will soon come out in sheet formats. It will be early 2020 before 135 format can be bought. A roll of 120 costs $ 5.55 or a pack of ten can be had for $ 55. See the CatLABS website for more details.

Manufacturer’s information:

CatLABS X FILM 80 (120) BW Negative Film

CatLABS X FILM 80 is a traditional, slow-speed, fine-grain, high silver content film, designed for a wide array of shooting conditions.

Following in the footsteps of Kodak’s famous ‘Panatomic-X’ (which was used in Polaroid’s equally famous Type 55 film), CatLABS X FILM 80 brings back a classic touch with its unique look.

An ideal “daylight” film, offering versatility and unique characteristics not found in any other currently made film on the market today.

Characterized by its very fine grain, moderate contrast and deep tonal range.
Exhibits a wide exposure latitude under various lighting conditions, and extreme flexibility in processing options.

Rate it at 50 ISO when shooting indoors (under studio lighting) for extreme fine-grain, or push it as high as 800 when shooting in low light conditions.

CatLABS X FILM 80/120 has an IE of 80 ISP.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Luminar 3.1.0 update introduces ‘human-aware’ Accent AI 2.0 technology

29 Apr

Skylum Software has announced the latest update to its Luminar 3 photo editing software, Luminar 3.1.0. Four significant upgrades have been added including improvements to its proprietary artificial intelligence tool that enhances photos. Upgraded from version 1.0, Accent AI 2.0 features facial and object recognition technology that help photographers create a more authentic effect in their images.

Accent AI 2.0 upgrade

Accent AI was developed to help photographers speed up their workflow. By automatically handling common tasks like shadows, highlights and contrast, time spent editing an image takes seconds instead of a few minutes. Accent AI 2.0 boasts improved presets and is “human aware,” meaning it recognizes people in the photo and provides skin tone adjustments selectively for a more natural look.

Accent AI 2.0 also includes more accurate color correction and detail boosts. If it can’t make a specific detail in a photo look better, it’ll remain untouched. While the artificial intelligence suggests enhancements including color, depth, detail, and exposure that eliminate the need to adjust several sliders in the development process, the photographer has the flexibility to customize all aspects of the image.

Improved Sync Adjustments command

Photographers can adjust one image, using Luminar’s image-aware filters or Looks, select a series of images that they want to apply the same changes to, and synchronize them. Filters and Looks are transferred while image-specific adjustments such as cloning and cropping remain untouched.

RAW + JPEG organization

For those shooting in RAW + JPEG mode, photos are easier to organize and view. When importing pairs of images into Luminar 3.1.0, the option to choose RAW, JPEG, or both files is available. Select one for less clutter or both for side-by-side comparison. If both RAW and JPEG versions of an image are uploaded, the option to delete one file and keep the other in that pair is available. Changes made in one file can be transferred to the other with the Sync Adjustments command.

Improved sorting method

When images are uploaded to Luminar, attributes such as ratings, file size, and color labels can be applied for organization purposes. When using the Gallery view, it’s now easier to locate images as a second organizational label is automatically applied. When sorting through images, they will be displayed by the new category first followed by the date.

Windows updates

The Windows version of Luminar 3.1.0 received a slew of updates. They include the ability to import images from a memory card or hard drive and copy them to a folder, post images directly to SmugMug, add folders and user albums to the shortcut list, rotate images by 90-degree increments in the gallery, and install the Luminar plugin into Photoshop Elements.

How to update

Users with Luminar 3 can update for free to version 3.1.0.

  • Mac users can update by choosing Luminar 3 in the top menu bar, then clicking “Check for updates.”
  • Windows users can choose Help > Check for updates on the top toolbar.

Pricing

Skylum is offering special, limited-time pricing through May 14th on its photo editing software and courses. Mixed-computer households can share the same product key for Mac and PC. The software can be operated on up to five devices.

  • $ 60 / €60 /.£56 – Luminar 3.1.0
  • $ 70 / €70 / £65 – Luminar 3.1.0 & Photography 101 Video course by SLR lounge ($ 99 value)
  • $ 129 / €129 / £118 – Bundle (Luminar & Aurora) + Photography 101 Course by SLR Lounge ($ 99 value)
  • Standard pricing: $ 70/€70/£65 for all new users
  • Free trial and 60-day money back guarantee.
  • Free “Photography 101: A-Z Guide to Photography” course from SLR Lounge

DPReview will be independently reviewing Luminar 3.1.0, so stay tuned. To get a walkthrough of the improvements described above, check out the above video by professional photographer and Skylum’s Vice President of Product, Richard Harrington.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus introduces 2X teleconverter, updates Micro Four Thirds roadmap

26 Jan

Olympus has announced its new 2X teleconverter, the MC-20, which is compatible with the company’s 40-150mm F2.8 Pro and 300mm F4 Pro lenses, as well as the 150-400mm F4.5 that will be arriving in 2020. Like Olympus’ pro lenses, the MC-20 is weather-sealed and should function down to -10°C/+14°F, according to the company. The MC-20 will be available this summer.

In addition, Olympus has released an updated Micro Four Thirds lens roadmap. There aren’t any dates on the roadmap, and the only lens called out is the 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS Pro, which is coming in 2020. The company is planning to release new zoom and fast prime Pro lenses as well as less expensive super telephoto and ‘high magnification’ (presumably travel zoom) lenses.

What Micro Four Thirds lenses are you hoping to see next? Let us know in the comments.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus introduces durable, sports-oriented OM-D E-M1X

25 Jan

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After three weeks of teasers, Olympus has revealed its sports-oriented, high-performance OM-D E-M1X to the world. The E-M1X is all about speed, with dual TruePic VIII processors, an all-cross-type 121-point hybrid AF system with ‘Intelligent Subject Detection’, and 60 fps continuous shooting (18 with continuous AF). Olympus has put all that (and much more) into a rugged, weather-resistant body that has in-body image stabilization that can reduce shake by up to 7 stops (7.5 stops with the 12-100mm lens under specific conditions).

The E-M1X is all about speed

Physically, the E-M1X resembles an E-M1 with a built-in battery grip. Its magnesium alloy body is designed to pass the IPX1 specification for water ingress, and its refined Supersonic Wave Filter shakes off 10% more dust from the sensor than on previous cameras, according to Olympus. An integrated ‘heat pipe’ helps keep the sensor cool while shooting bursts or videos for a long period of time. The shutter is rated to 400,000 shots.

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Photos can be composed via a large EVF with 2.36 million dots (which seems low for a $ 3000 camera,) or on a 3″ rear touchscreen display. The built-in grip holds two BLH-1 batteries, which in combination should deliver 870 shots until they’re both exhausted (per CIPA rating). The E-M1X supports power delivery over USB-C, which lets users charge both batteries in-camera, in a total of about two hours using a laptop/tablet charger or portable power bank. There are two SD card slots on the camera, both supporting UHS-II media. The E-M1X also has a built-in GPS and compass, plus pressure, temperature and acceleration sensors.

The autofocus system on the E-M1X is derived from the one on the E-M1 Mark II. It puts 121 all-cross-type phase detect points on top of a traditional contrast-detect system. The focus point can be set using the fully articulating touchscreen or 8-way joystick. The camera’s Intelligent Subject Detection system can detect and track your choice of trains, race cars and motorcycles, or aircraft of all types, in addition to faces and eyes. Sorry, no pet detection yet. As with the E-M1 II, the E-M1X can shoot at 18 fps with continuous autofocus and exposure or 60 fps with AE and AF locked, using its electronic shutter.

The E-M1X offers the same High Res Shot mode as the E-M1 II, which creates 80MP equivalent images by shifting the sensor slightly. In addition, the E-M1X has a handheld mode, which attempts to do the same thing but without the tripod and with motion correction (check out our Review in Progress to see how well it performs). Another new feature is Live ND, which simulates the effect of up to a 5-stop neutral density filter by combining multiple exposures. The Pro Capture mode is still there, which saves up to 35 frames buffered before you fully press the shutter release button.

The E-M1X can shoot at 18 fps with continuous autofocus

The E-M1X has very good (but not class-leading) video specifications. You can capture DCI at up to 24p / 237Mbps and UHD 4K video at 30p / 102Mbps, using the full width of the sensor. Full HD recording at 60 fps is also available, with a top bit rate of 202Mbps. The camera supports time code, flat and OM-Log400 gamma curves and can output 8-bit 4:2:2 to an external recorder.

The E-M1X will be available in late February for $ 2999.

Read our E-M1X Review in Progress for much more

Press Release:

INTRODUCING THE OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1X® OFFERING UNRIVALED SPEED AND SYSTEM MOBILITY

Latest OM-D Body Provides Absolute Confidence for Professional Photographers

CENTER VALLEY, PA., January 24, 2019 – Today Olympus expands the OM-D series with the introduction of the OM-D E-M1X professional Micro Four Thirds® interchangeable lens camera. The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is packed with industry leading speed, performance, reliability and high-quality image output that rivals that of full-frame DSLRs. This new professional model, positioned alongside the award-winning Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, incorporates an integrated vertical grip to provide a secure grip and superior operability, whether held horizontally or vertically, and offers the world’s highest[1] image stabilization performance with approximately 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation. Zero-lag Pro Capture Mode[2] and 60 fps high-speed continuous shooting[3] ensures photographers never miss a shot. Its dual TruePic VIII Image Processors provide for high-speed responsiveness and a handheld High Res Shot Mode. The camera’s 121-point all-cross-type on-chip Phase Detection AF sensor and an AF Multi-Selector provides greater freedom over composition. When pairing the OM-D E-M1X with the versatile, excellent image quality of Olympus M.Zuiko lenses, this compact, lightweight, high quality camera system demonstrates its true capabilities in situations where portability is essential, including sports and wildlife photography.

Main Features

  • Integrated Vertical Grip
  • Precise Autofocus system with AF Multi-Selector, All-Cross-Type On-Chip Phase Detection AF Sensor, and Intelligent Subject Detection AF
  • Pro Capture Mode[4] and 60 fps High-Speed Sequential Shooting[5]
  • Dual TruePic VIII Image Processors
  • The World’s Highest Image Stabilization Performance

Integrated Vertical Grip Construction

To meet demands from professional users who place importance on a secure grip during shooting, the OM-D E-M1X features integrated vertical grip construction, designed to provide an improved grip with a deep finger rest whether holding the camera horizontally or vertically. The ergonomic design reduces fatigue when shooting for long periods of time.

Redesigned Button Layout

The layout, shape, and height of all buttons and levers have been completely redesigned to enable users to concentrate on shooting through the viewfinder. A multi-selector is included in both the horizontal and vertical positions so that users can quickly shift focus areas while looking through the viewfinder. A new C-LOCK lever allows the user to select and disable numerous buttons and dials on the camera when in the vertical or horizontal position to substantially mitigate any the risk of accidental changes in settings.

High Magnification, High-Speed Viewfinder

The viewfinder features a new optical design using an industry-leading magnification of 0.83x (35mm equivalent). This four-element configuration designed with aspherical and high reflective index lenses provides a clear, distortion-free display right up to the edge of the viewfinder. As found on the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, a 120 fps (progressive scan) high-speed frame rate with a 0.005 second latency are provided for stress-free moving subject photography.

Advanced Durability and Reliability

The OM-D E-M1X clears Olympus’ in-house splashproof tests that are far more rigorous than IPX1 water ingress testing. The body is designed for shooting in the severe conditions professional photographers often find themselves. Dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C) performance is maintained even when the remote cable, microphone, and headphone jacks are in use, enabling shooting that is not affected by poor weather. A new coating is used on the Super Sonic Wave Filter, which vibrates at 30,000 times per second to remove dust and dirt, boosting dust removal effectiveness by 10% compared to previous Olympus models. The OM-D E-M1X also features durability and reliability to put pro photographers’ minds at ease, including construction that dissipates heat when shooting video and during high speed shooting in very hot conditions, which can typically cause the temperature to rise and limit functionality, as well as a shutter life actuation counts of 400,000[6].

High-Capacity Battery

The OM-D E-M1X is equipped with a cartridge battery insertion system with the capacity for two BLH-1 lithium-ion batteries (also used in the OM-D E-M1 Mark II). Users can capture up to approximately 870 shots[7] and easily replace the batteries even when the camera is attached to a monopod or tripod. The camera also supports USB-C power delivery from a maximum 100 W USB-C standard power source with no special adapter required. This makes it possible to charge the two BLH-1 batteries in the camera body in approximately two hours.

AF Area Multi Selector

A multi selector is included in both the horizontal and vertical positions on the OM-D E-M1X allowing users to quickly shift the AF area while looking through the viewfinder. A distinctive attribute of this joystick is that it allows for diagonal movement of the AF point, where most other cameras only allow for left, right, up and down movement, and in only one direction at a time. This feature makes it possible to smoothly shift AF areas during sequential shooting and video recording.

121-Point All-Cross-Type On-Chip Phase Detection AF Sensor The precise 121-point all-cross-type on-chip Phase Detection AF sensor currently available on the OM-D E-M1 Mark II is also featured on this model for more accurate and greater freedom for focusing in various situations. Olympus on-chip Phase Detection AF delivers Live View images and utilizes autofocus information from recorded images for quick tracking of unpredictable subject movement and changes in subject speed. The AF low-light limit when an F1.2 lens is attached[8] is -6 EV, allowing for high-precision focusing in both dark situations and low-contrast subjects.

Various Autofocus Settings

Various autofocus settings are available on the OM-D E-M1X to meet the needs of professional photographers, including multiple AF Target Modes, AF area position settings when holding the camera vertically or horizontally, and turning the focusing ring in C-AF AF to instantly switch to manual focus using C-AF+MF Mode. The new 25-Point Group Target and Custom AF Target have been added to the available AF Target Modes for greater operating freedom.

High-Speed Sequential Shooting

The OM-D E-M1X features high-speed sequential shooting at a maximum60 fps for capturing scenes in high definition that even the human eye cannot see. Both the 60 fps high-speed continuous shooting in AF/AE Lock, and maximum 18 fps continuous shooting with AF/AE Tracking can be used in Silent Mode for shooting a variety of activities, performances and events where the photographer does not want to disturb others with the sound of the shutter.

Pro Capture Mode

Pro Capture Mode records up to 35 frames retroactively from when the shutter button is released with no blackouts (image loss) during shooting, recording at 20 million pixels and offers support for RAW capture. This feature has received high praise from professional photographers since its introduction on the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, and is effective for capturing artistic images of subjects that move unpredictably.

Dual TruePicVIII High-Speed Image Processors

The OM-D E-M1X is equipped with two TruePic VIII Image Processors, providing quicker start-up times and recovery from sleep mode, and supporting the two high-speed UHS-II SD card slots for overall high-speed responsiveness. This not only contributes to a faster camera, but also supports new camera functionality, including Handheld High Res Shot Mode, Live ND, and Intelligent Subject Detection AF.

Handheld High Res Shot

In addition to ultra-high-resolution maximum 80M[9] High Res Shot images that can be captured using a tripod, Handheld High Res Shot Mode is now available on the OM-D E-M1X, in response to many requests received from professional photographers. This feature is particularly useful for capturing high-definition shots in locations where it is impossible to use a tripod, including when moving from place to place, such as hiking.

Live ND

Live ND is included on the OM-D E-M1X for slow shutter speed effects without the need for an ND filter. This new technology combines multiple exposed images in camera to attain slow shutter effects. It is also possible to check the slow shutter effects in the viewfinder before shooting for improved efficiency. Effects can be set in five levels: ND2 (equivalent to one shutter speed step), ND4 (2 steps), ND8 (3 steps), ND16 (4 steps), and ND32 (5 steps).

Intelligent Subject Detection AF

Artificial Intelligence (AI) based Deep Learning technology was utilized to develop new algorithms for the Intelligent Subject Detection AF feature. It detects three different types of subjects, including motorsports, airplanes, and trains, focusing on and tracking the optimal area. For example, it sets pinpoint focus, locking onto the driver’s helmet during motorsports, automatically detecting the subject, enabling improved autofocus precision so users can focus on the composition.

World’s Highest Image Stabilization

The OM-D E-M1X’s new gyro sensor enables superior image stabilization performance, delivering a maximum of 7.0 shutter speed steps of compensation performance[10] when using the camera body stabilization alone, and the world’s highest 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation when combined with the stabilized M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO lens. This feature makes handheld shooting possible at lower shutter speeds than ever before, which is perfect for nighttime and indoor shooting.

Other Features:

  • Field Sensor System and Built-In GPS: The OM-D E-M1X contains a built-in GPS® sensor, temperature sensor, manometer and compass, collectively known as ‘field sensors’. In addition to location information, including longitude and latitude, these sensors detect and record the temperature, elevation, and direction of the camera for adding detailed shooting information to images.
  • Anti-Flicker Shooting and Flicker Scan: With anti-flicker shooting, the camera detects the flicker frequency of artificial light sources, including fluorescent lighting and activates the shutter at peak brightness to eliminate uneven exposures and coloring between sequential frames. Flicker scan suppresses striped patterns that can occur when using Silent Mode (electronic shutter) and when shooting movies, so that users can fine tune the shutter speed.
  • Olympus Capture: Olympus Capture camera control software now supports the transfer of recorded images over Wi-Fi®. This new feature makes it possible to transfer images wirelessly to a computer when shooting in the studio without connecting a USB cable. Both 2.4 GHz and high-speed communication 5 GHz bandwidths are available.
  • Handheld 4K and Cinema 4K: Powerful 5-Axis Image Stabilization and electronic stabilization enable ultra-smooth handheld 4K and cinema 4K video recording, without the need for stabilizing gear. Image stabilization effect can be selected from three levels depending on the photographer’s posture and movement.
  • OM-Log400: The OM-D E-M1X supports OM-Log400 shooting, which allows for shooting without loss of details in shadows and highlights and without blowouts, along with color grading via a computer for a high degree of freedom over images.
  • High-Speed Movie (120 fps): 120 fps high-speed movies are now supported in Full HD. Slow-motion playback can make for more impressive imaging expressions.

Separately Available Accessories:

FL-700WR Electronic Flash

FL-700WR Electronic Flash is a high-performance wireless radiowave shooting compatible electronic flash. During wireless shooting, it can function as a commander or flash with built-in receiver. The compact, lightweight design delivers excellent portability with high intensity at a maximum guide number of 42[11] (ISO 100/m). The dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C)[12] performance offers reliability when shooting in a variety of environments including rain, when paired with the OM-D E-M1X, and other splashproof and dustproof body and lens combinations. Full flash intensity is possible with an approximate 1.5 second[13] charging time for comfortable, easy shooting. Because charging time is short, sequential flash photography[14] at 10 fps is possible.

Wireless Commander FC-WR & Wireless Receiver FR-WR:

Wireless Commander FC-WR and Wireless Receiver FR-WR can control multiple flash units remotely from the camera, enabling versatile wireless flash photography. As is the case with the Electronic Flash FL-700WR, dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C) design allows use in a variety of fields. When paired with weathersealed cameras, lenses, and flash units including the FL-700WR or high-capacity Electronic Flash FL-900R, users can perform wireless flash photography comfortably even in the rain. The commander can connect to three groups and an unlimited number of flash units. Users can also select which group to fire and not fire and configure the flash intensity.

Olympus Workspace image management software

This new image management software delivers authentic image viewing and editing functions. RAW processing preview speed is now faster to streamline the post-shooting workflow. The rating function has also been improved for speedy selection of the best shots from large collections of images. A multi-window environment is now supported along with other comfortable controls for a more satisfying work process. Olympus Workspace can be downloaded free of charge for users who own an Olympus camera.

U.S. Pricing and Availability

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X (black) will begin shipping in late February 2019 for $ 2,999.99 (U.S.) and $ 3,899.99 (CAD).

[1] Lens used: M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO, at a focal distance of 100mm (35mm equivalent: 200mm), halfway release image stabilization: Off, conforms to CIPA standards, when corrected on 2 axes (Yaw and Pitch), current as of January 24, 2019.

[2] During Pro Capture shooting, the shutter speed is limited to the maximum speed (1 fps or higher) and the flash is disabled.

[3] AF and AE locked at first frame. Maximum of 18 fps during AF, AE operation.

[4] During Pro Capture shooting, the shutter speed is limited to the maximum speed (1 fps or higher) and the flash is disabled.

[5] AF and AE locked at first frame. Maximum of 18 fps during AF, AE operation.

[6] According to Olympus tests.

[7] When using two BLH-1 batteries. Shooting with a Toshiba SDXU-D032G, IS on, flash not attached, CIPA testing standards. When using power saving shooting mode, Olympus testing conditions show approximately 2,580 shots based on CIPA testing standards.

[8] Lens used: M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm F1.2 IS PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 25mm F1.2 IS PRO, and M.Zuiko Digital ED 45mm F1.2 IS PRO.

[9] Up to 80M (50M for Handheld High Res Shot) supported during RAW shooting. Images must be processed using compatible software including Olympus Workspace.

[10] Lens used: M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f2.8 PRO, at a focal distance of 40mm (35mm equivalent: 80mm). Conforms to CIPA standards, when corrected on 2 axes (Yaw and Pitch), current as of January 2019.

[11] Firing angle of 75mm / standard light distribution mode, ISO 100/m.

[12] Batteries may not withstand lower temperatures. In such environments, keep batteries warm prior to use.

[13] When using rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. Approximately 2.5 s when using alkaline batteries.

[14] Only when using OM-D E-M1X and OM-D E-M1 Mark II mechanical shutter. At a firing ratio of 1/16.

Olympus OM-D E-M1X specifications

Price
MSRP $ 2999
Body type
Body type SLR-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 5184 x 3888
Image ratio w:h 4:3
Effective pixels 20 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 22 megapixels
Sensor size Four Thirds (17.4 x 13 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Dual TruePic VIII
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to 64)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 64
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes (4 slots)
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes 7.5 stops with 12-100mm lens at 100mm. Otherwise 7 stops
CIPA image stabilization rating 7.5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Super fine, fine, normal
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.31)
  • Raw (12-bit ORF)
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 121
Lens mount Micro Four Thirds
Focal length multiplier 2×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 1,037,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 1.48× (0.74× 35mm equiv.)
Viewfinder resolution 2,360,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 60 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/32000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe or flash sync port)
Flash modes Redeye, Fill-in, Flash Off, Red-eye Slow sync (1st curtain), Slow sync.(1st curtain), Slow sync (2nd curtain), manual
Flash X sync speed 1/250 sec
Drive modes
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Bracketing
  • Self-timer
Continuous drive 60.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 12 secs, custom)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Highlight-weighted
  • Spot
  • Spot AF-area
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 1 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±5 (5, 7 frames at 1/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 52 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 52 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 202 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 202 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 202 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage included Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC cards
Connectivity
USB USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes (USB-PD allows charging by laptop or external power bank)
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11ac + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via smartphone or wired remote)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes (to IPX1 standards)
Battery Built-in
Battery description Two BLH-1 lithium-ion batteries
Battery Life (CIPA) 870
Weight (inc. batteries) 997 g (2.20 lb / 35.17 oz)
Dimensions 144 x 147 x 75 mm (5.67 x 5.79 x 2.95″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS Built-in
GPS notes Also captures direction, temperature, pressure and acceleration

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon introduces 14-30mm F4 ultra-wide zoom for Z-mount

08 Jan

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Nikon has introduced the Nikkor Z 14-30mm F4 S lens, the first ultra-wide zoom for its full-frame mirrorless system. This compact lens weighs just 485g (17oz) and supports screw-in (82mm) filters, a rarity for this type of lens.

The 14-30 contains a total of 14 elements, including four aspherical and four ED. Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat helps prevent ghosting and flare, and a fluorine coating makes it easier to clean water drops and fingerprints off of the front and back elements. Nikon claims that the design of the lens reduces focus breathing. The lens uses an STM (stepping motor) for responsive and quiet autofocus.

As with all of Nikon’s Z-mount lenses, the 14-30mm F4 is sealed against dust and moisture. There’s also a customizable control ring which can be assigned to handle manual focus, exposure compensation or aperture control.

The Nikkor Z 14-30mm F4 S will be available this Spring for $ 1299.

Official sample photos

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Press Release

NIKON UNVEILS THE NEW NIKKOR Z 14-30MM F/4 S ULTRA-WIDE-ANGLE ZOOM LENS, THE WORLD’S FIRST1 FULL-FRAME 14MM FILTER-ATTACHABLE LENS

Nikon Also Debuts Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit: An Immersive Toolkit for the Modern Multimedia Creative

LAS VEGAS – CES BOOTH #14006 (January 7, 2019 at 9:01 P.M. EST/6:01 P.M. PST) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced two new products, including the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S, the first ultra-wide zoom lens to take advantage of the amazing capabilities of the next generation Nikon Z Mount. This newest S-Line NIKKOR lens is a popular focal length for landscape, travel, event and architecture photographers, offering a combination of performance and portability that’s only possible with Nikon’s revolutionary new Z Mount.

Featuring a new optical design, the compact and lightweight NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S delivers the high level of optical performance that still and video creators expect from the NIKKOR name. By utilizing the larger diameter and technological benefits of the Z Mount, Nikon was able to design an ultra-wide-angle lens that delivers superior optical performance and maximizes the potential of high pixel-count digital cameras such as the 45.7-megapixel Nikon Z 7. Additionally, the design features a nearly flat front lens element, making the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm the world’s first filter-attachable ultra-wide-angle zoom lens covering a focal length from 14mm.

Nikon Inc. has also announced the Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit. Featuring a selection of popular video equipment for the Z 6, the kit allows video creators to take full advantage of the Z 6’s industry-leading video features. Included accessories such as the Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR 5” Monitor Recorder and MOZA Air 2 3-Axis Hand-Held Gimbal Stabilizer make the new Filmmaker’s Kit an enticing value for those ready to explore the Nikon Z 6’s stellar video capture and multimedia potential.

“The NIKKOR Z 14-30mm lens demonstrates the optical superiority of the Z system, taking advantage of the newest high-performance lens technologies while maximizing compactness and portability,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “The Nikon Z series is a powerfully capable camera system for all types of video production, and with the Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit, we’re giving videographers and content creators the gear they need to begin capturing high-quality videos with the most compelling hybrid camera on the market.”

The NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S: An Exceptional Combination of Portability and Performance

The new 14-30mm lens was designed for photo and video shooters looking for a sharp ultra-wide zoom lens with which to seek out gorgeous landscapes or cityscapes on their next travel adventure, and is an excellent choice for capturing interiors, architecture or events. It’s a lens for those who need to pack light without sacrificing image quality – an ultra-wide-angle lens that delivers portability and performance that pushes the boundaries of what is optically possible in a lens of its size.

  • Lightweight and Ultra-Portable: At just 3.5-inches long when retracted, and weighing only 485g/1.07lbs, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is approximately 28.6% lighter and 32% shorter than the popular AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR, and approximately 51.5% lighter and 35% shorter than the tried-and-true AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED for the F mount.
  • Uncompromising Optics: Featuring a new optical formula that utilizes four Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) elements and four aspherical elements, the 14-30mm f/4 offers unparalleled control of distortion and chromatic aberration. Additionally, the use of Nikon’s anti-reflective Nano Crystal Coat effectively reduces ghosting and flare, delivering clearer images that maintain contrast in challenging lighting situations.
  • Filter Attachable: For the first time on a 14mm FX-format (full-frame) lens1, photographers will be able to attach various types of screw-on filters (82mm) to the front of this ultra-wide-angle lens, infinitely expanding the creative possibilities of the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S for landscape and cityscape photographers, videographers and more.
  • Stepping Motor Technology: Featuring the latest Nikon Stepping Motor (STM) technology, the new lens provides smooth, fast and quiet AF performance—ideal for photographers shooting in sensitive environments, as well as videographers who must avoid focus noise in productions.
  • Control Ring: As with the rest of the S-Line of NIKKOR Z lenses, the 14-30mm f/4 includes a customizable control ring that can be assigned to manual focusing, exposure compensation or aperture control depending on personal preference or shooting situation, maintaining different custom settings when in photo and video mode.
  • Fully Compatible with In-Camera 5-Axis VR: To help ensure the sharpest possible images and most stable video, the new NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is fully compatible with the in-body 5-axis VR found in the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7, providing up to 5 stops2 of image stabilization without adding to the size or weight of the lens itself.
  • Optimized Video Performance: In addition to the speedy and near-silent stepping motor technology and customizable control ring, the lens reduces focus breathing, preventing the angle of view from changing unintentionally when adjusting focus.
  • Reliability: The NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is designed with consideration to dust and drip resistance, and features a fluorine coat that effectively repels dust, water droplets, grease and dirt.

The New Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit

For users who are looking to take full advantage of the Nikon Z 6’s industry-leading video capabilities, this powerfully cinematic camera is now available as part of a new Filmmaker’s Kit. The bundle includes a range of equipment that helps users unlock the Z 6’s advanced video features and powerful potential.

The kit includes: a Nikon Z 6 camera, NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens, Mount Adapter FTZ, Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR 5” Monitor Recorder3, Rode VideoMic Pro+, MOZA Air 2 3-Axis Hand-Held Gimbal Stabilizer, an additional EN-EL15b battery, a coiled HDMI cable, 12-month Vimeo Pro membership, and The Art of Making Music Videos Nikon School online course featuring Nikon Ambassador Chris Hershman.

The Z 6 ushers in a new era in high-quality video capture for Nikon shooters. The camera’s fast and accurate autofocus, full-frame 4K/30p recording with full-pixel readout, zebra stripes, timecode and focus peaking offer users a professional-grade shooting experience. With the Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit, users can access the advanced video features, like 10-bit HDMI output and N-Log video recording, while capturing gimbal-smooth video and crystal-clear audio. The kit provides filmmakers, vloggers and YouTubers with all the equipment they need to begin capturing high-quality 4K footage right away.

Price and Availability

The NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S lens will be available in the spring for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 1,299.954.

The Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit will available in late January for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 3,999.954.

  1. Among FX-format (full-frame) compatible interchangeable lenses for digital cameras, available as of January 8, 2019. Based on Nikon research.
  2. Based on CIPA Standard. This value is achieved when FX-format compatible lenses are attached to a FX-format digital SLR camera and zoom lenses are set at the maximum telephoto position.
  3. Batteries and SSD sold separately.
  4. SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

– Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

– MOZA is a trademark of Gudsen Technology Co., Ltd, registered in the U.S. and other countries

– Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Nikon Nikkor Z 14-30mm F4 S specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 14–30 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Nikon Z
Aperture
Maximum aperture F4
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Optics
Elements 14
Groups 12
Special elements / coatings 4 ED and 4 aspherical elements + Nano Crystal Coat
Focus
Minimum focus 0.28 m (11.02″)
Maximum magnification 0.16×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 485 g (1.07 lb)
Diameter 89 mm (3.5″)
Length 85 mm (3.35″)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock No
Filter thread 82 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Colorado Tripod Company introduces ‘world’s first titanium tripod system’

08 Dec

The Colorado Tripod Company has introduced what it claims is the world’s first titanium tripod system, with a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. Not only does the use of titanium make the ball heads lightweight and strong, but the design of the heads also allows the camera to drop to the side below the usual 90 degrees seen in other heads.

The Highline ballhead will be available in either titanium or aluminum. The titanium model will feature a hollow ball to reduce weight. Both versions will have a locking force of 54lb and will offer left-handed controls that allow users to hold the camera and shoot with the right hand. The titanium model will weigh less than 340g (12oz), while in aluminium the same unit weighs 510g (18oz).

To accompany these heads a new line of titanium and carbon fibre legs have also been introduced. The company says that by CNC machining from a solid block of titanium it can make its metal parts stronger than manufacturers that use metal casting. Milling also means the company can make its parts more precisely, and it says it can cut the amount of material used to help reduce weight. The carbon fibre used in the Centennial legs is ten-layered, and comes from Japan.

An additional ball head called the Aspen comes only in aluminium but offers a much wider range of camera positions, as it has no housing around the ball. This allows the camera to drop well below 90 degrees, while making the head quite lightweight at only 454g (16oz).

The Highline ball head in aluminium starts at $ 79 on Kickstarter, while the titanium version can be had for $ 399. The Aspen head costs $ 179 and the Centennial tripod is $ 249 in aluminium and $ 399 in titanium. Various kits combing these products are also available. Shipping is planned to start in March.

For more information see the Colorado Tripod Company’s Kickstarter campaign page.

Disclaimer: Remember to do your research with any crowdfunding project. DPReview does its best to share only the projects that look legitimate and come from reliable creators, but as with any crowdfunded campaign, there’s always the risk of the product or service never coming to fruition.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Voigtlander introduces a pair of retro wide lenses for Leica M mount

28 Nov

Lens manufacturer Voigtlander has announced a pair of new lenses in what it calls its Vintage Line. The Color-Skopar 21mm F3.5 and Ultron 35mm F2 Aspherical are both designed for M mount cameras, including Voigtlander’s Bessa models as well as Leica’s M rangefinders.

The lenses are styled to conjure up the feel of the 1950s, according to the manufacturer. While the exteriors are retro, the optical construction aims to be a match match modern digital sensors as well as for film. Voigtlander says it has used ‘practical’ maximum apertures rather than going too wide so that it could keep the lenses small and the quality high. The aperture range is ‘practical’ because, according to Voigtlander, it is more difficult to focus with a shallow depth of field with a rangefinder when faced with moving subjects, and these lenses are intended to be used stopped down for zone focusing when responding to fluid situations.

The barrels and moving parts are made of metal and the focusing mechanism is claimed to be well greased for smooth movements. The Color-Skopar 21mm uses nine elements in eight groups, while the Ultron 35mm has eight elements in five groups – and both have a ten-bladed iris.

Below is a gallery of sample images from the Color-Skopar 21mm F3.5:

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Below is a gallery of sample images from the Ultron 35mm F2:

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The lenses will be available in January priced ¥95,000 and ¥90,000 (approx. $ 840 and $ 800). For more information see the Voitlander pages of the Cosina website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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