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Posts Tagged ‘Micro’

Nikon Releases Two “Micro” Lenses for Z Series Cameras

11 Jun

The post Nikon Releases Two “Micro” Lenses for Z Series Cameras appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

Nikon releases two Z-mount micro lenses

Nikon has officially released two Z series lenses and announced the development of two more. These lenses will enhance the already impressive Z-mount lineup and should go a long way toward making Nikon’s mirrorless system a compelling option for beginners and professionals alike.

The newly released lenses, the Nikkor Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S and the Nikkor Z MC 50mm f/2.8, both feature 1:1 magnification capabilities – a first for Nikon’s Z series. And the lenses under development, the Nikkor Z 28mm f/2.8 and the Nikkor Z 40mm f/2, will offer compact, (likely) low-priced glass for travel photography, walkaround photography, and more.

Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8
The Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 is currently under development.

The Z 105mm f/2.8 will feature outstanding image quality at an ideal short-telephoto focal length, perfect for standard macro photography – of flowers, plants, and less-skittish insects – as well as product photography, detail photography, and even portraits. The maximum f/2.8 aperture should offer smooth backgrounds (Nikon promises “the beautiful bokeh of a micro lens”); you’ll also get Vibration Reduction for working at high magnifications or in low light. And for photographers requiring fast focus, the 105mm f/2.8 packs a quick (and quiet) STM motor.

Nikon Z 105mm f/2.8 micro lens
The Nikon Z 105mm f/2.8

The new Z 50mm f/2.8, on the other hand, is designed as an all-purpose lens, though it still offers a 1:1 magnification ratio for high-quality macro shots. While the 50mm focal length and small working distance will make photographing some macro subjects more difficult – insects, for instance – you can still capture beautiful detail photos, and Nikon guarantees “beautiful bokeh” for pro-level macro and portrait results. If you’re a casual photographer, you’ll love the low-light capabilities offered by the f/2.8 maximum aperture, as well as the lightweight, compact body; you can mount the 50mm f/2.8 on your camera, slip it in your bag, and carry it around all day for spur-of-the-moment photography.

Nikon 50mm f/2.8 micro lens on a Z6 II
The Nikon Z 50mm f/2.8 mounted on the Z6 II.

According to the press release, the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 and the Nikon 50mm f/2.8 will start shipping at the end of June, though B&H notes an expected availability in July. You can currently preorder the two lenses for $ 999 USD and $ 649 USD, respectively.

As for the 28mm f/2.8 and 40mm f/2: While Nikon is keeping the details under wraps, you can expect a 2021 release date. So keep an eye out!

Nikon Z 40mm f/2
The Nikon 40mm f/2, a compact, all-purpose lens.

Now over to you:

What do you think of these new lenses from Nikon? Are you considering buying any? Are there any lenses you wish Nikon would release?

The post Nikon Releases Two “Micro” Lenses for Z Series Cameras appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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DPReview TV: Panasonic G9 vs. Olympus E-M1 Mark III – who’s the king of Micro Four Thirds?

23 May

Title fight! In one corner we have the new Olympus E-M1 Mark III. In the other is the Panasonic G9 – two years old, but sporting an impressive mid-life firmware update. Find out who wins the battle for Micro Four Thirds supremacy!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get new episodes of DPReview TV every week.

  • Introduction
  • Handling
  • Displays
  • Stabilization
  • Intermission: bunny rabbits
  • Video features
  • Image quality
  • Autofocus and burst shooting
  • Bells and whistles
  • Which one is right for you?

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DPReview TV: Shoot Pentax 110 lenses on Micro Four Thirds!

29 Feb

Between 1978 and 1985 Pentax sold the Pentax Auto 110 (and later, the Auto 110 Super), a miniature SLR system built around Kodak’s small-format 110 film cartridges. The 110 system is no longer with us, but thanks to an almost identical frame size, its lenses are a perfect match for the Micro Four Thirds system. Join us as we discover the joy of using vintage Pentax 110 lenses on a modern digital camera.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get new episodes of DPReview TV every week.

  • Introduction
  • Brief intro to the Pentax 110 system
  • Which lenses do we have?
  • Aperture
  • Sample images
  • Frame size and lens coverage
  • Sharpness
  • Should Pentax join Micro Four Thirds?
  • Conclusion

Sample gallery from this episode

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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Laowa and Yongnuo to Support Micro Four Thirds Standard

25 Feb

The post Laowa and Yongnuo to Support Micro Four Thirds Standard appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

laowa-yongnuo-micro-four-thirds-standard

The Micro Four Thirds standard will see official support from three additional companies.

Last Thursday, Panasonic and Olympus declared that several manufacturers would be joining them in the production of Micro Four Thirds equipment, including Yongnuo and Venus Optics.

You may be familiar with Yongnuo already; in addition to products such as their popular budget flashes (e.g., the YN560 IV) Yongnuo is working on a mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera, one that sports Android software and features a Canon EF compatible lens mount.

Venus Optics is another company that already produces Micro Four Thirds products, though under the brand name Laowa. You can grab several Laowa MFT lenses, including a budget 17mm f/1.8 prime.

But the announcement from Olympus and Panasonic suggests that we should see a number of additional Micro Four Thirds products coming from both Yongnuo and Venus Optics, potentially bolstering both the MFT lens and camera lineup.

The Micro Four Thirds standard was first unveiled in 2008 when Olympus and Panasonic jointly declared their interest in working “toward commercial production of significantly lighter and more compact interchangeable lens type digital camera systems.”

Since then, we’ve seen the steady production of Micro Four Thirds bodies and lenses from Olympus and Panasonic, including the well-regarded Olympus OM-D series, as well as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G line. Various other manufacturers have also engaged in MFT production, though in recent years the Micro Four Thirds system has been overshadowed by the rise of ultra-portable smartphone cameras, as well as compact APS-C and full-frame mirrorless bodies.

That said, smartphone manufacturers still have a lot of work to do if they’re ever going to match the quality of an MFT camera. And while mirrorless producers do offer MFT-sized cameras, their lenses struggle to compete with the small sizes and weights of MFT offerings. That’s where the Micro Four Thirds system shines; it includes high-quality camera-lens setups that are more compact than anything offered by the competition.

And given this announcement from Olympus and Panasonic, it’s clear that the Micro Four Thirds standard is alive and well, at least for now.

How do you feel about the expansion of the Micro Four Thirds lineup? Would you consider using a Yongnuo or Laowa camera/lens? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Laowa and Yongnuo to Support Micro Four Thirds Standard appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Yongnuo, Mediaedge and Venus Optics join Micro Four Thirds System standard

20 Feb

Olympus and Panasonic have teamed up to announce that three more companies have joined the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) System standard. According to the joint press release, Yongnuo, Mediaedge and Venus Optics have joined the standard to make products for MFT camera systems.

For those not familiar with each of the brands, here’s a quick rundown of each. Yongnuo manufactures and sells various lenses, lighting gear and accessories; Mediaedge creates and promotes various video streaming and display systems; and Venus Optics is the parent company behind the Laowa brand, which makes price-conscious lenses and accessories for digital camera systems.

Both Yongnuo and Venus Optics have developed various MFT products in the past, including lenses and even a dedicated MFT smartphone camera add-on in the case of the Yongnuo YN43, so the two companies aren’t exactly new to the system. That said, this partnership will likely streamline the production of future MTF products now that the pair have the support of Olympus and Panasonic backing them.

Press release:

YONGNUO, MEDIAEDGE, and Venus Optics Join the Micro Four Thirds System Standard Group

Olympus Corporation and Panasonic Corporation jointly announced the Micro Four Thirds System standard in 2008 and have since been working together to promote the standard. We are pleased to announce that three more companies have recently declared their support for the Micro Four Thirds System standard and will be introducing products compliant with the standard.

The following companies are joining the Micro Four Thirds System standard group: YONGNUO which develops, produces and sells digital camera switching lenses, performance lighting, video lighting, etc., MEDIAEDGE Corporation, which has been an advocate of video streaming and display system concepts for over 17 years, aiming to produce products that inspire customers, and Venus Optics, the company behind the development and production of LAOWA brand, which produces incredibly practical, cost-effective, and unique products. The possibilities unique to a joint standard are sure to push the enjoyment of imaging ever further.

As the company responsible for initiating both the Four Thirds System and the Micro Four Thirds System standards, Olympus will continue to develop and enhance the product line-up to meet the diverse needs of our customers.

About YONGNUO

YONGNUO regards “reflecting the beauty of the world and writing into a happy life” as the mission of the company. In the field of image in the information society, YONGNUO is a company that integrates the strength of all employees to develop and produce excellent products and make contributions to the society.

YONGNUO Website: http://www.hkyongnuo.com/e-index.php

About MEDIAEDGE Corporation

MEDIAEDGE Corporation has been involved in developing imaging systems for over 17 years, with a track record of sales to various industries and business categories, the support of many loyal customers, and a long history in Japan and around the world. With collaborative development of both software and hardware, the company continues to produce imaging systems that customers can feel safe and sound using.

MEDIAEDGE Corporation Website: https://www.mediaedge.co.jp/

About Anhui ChangGeng Optics Technology Company Limited (Venus Optics)

Anhui ChangGeng Optics Technology Co., Ltd (Venus Optics) was established in 2013. With headquarters in China, we are a leading manufacturer of premium lenses, formed by a group of photography enthusiasts and industry experts. Our mission is to design and create our own portfolio of photographic lenses that are truly unique, practical and affordable.

Venus Optics Website: https://www.venuslens.net/

Micro Four Thirds standard

The outlines of the standard can be found on the following website. http://www.four-thirds.org/en/

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Cosina announces new Voigtlander Nokton 60mm F0.95 lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras

19 Feb

Cosina Japan has lifted the veil on its latest lens for Micro Four Thirds camera systems, the Voigtlander Nokton 60mm F0.95.

The manual focus lens, which is set for an April 2020 release in the Japan market for ¥145,000, is constructed of 11 elements in 8 groups, features an aperture range of F.095 through F16 and features a ten-blade aperture diaphragm. The minimum focusing distance is 34cm (13.4in) and it features a 77mm front filter thread.

Below are a few low-res sample images provided by Cosina:

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Cosina has also added a new aperture switching mechanism that will de-click the aperture ring for times when you don’t want the tactile and auditory feedback. The lens measures in at 82.5mm (3.25in) diameter and 87.7mm (3.45in) long, and weighs in at 860g (1.9lbs).

No pricing or availability information has been given for regions outside of Japan.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Vazen announces new 28mm T2.2 1.8x anamorphic lens for Micro Four Thirds mount

17 Feb

Chinese cinema lens manufacturer Vazen has announced its latest anamorphic lens for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras and teased another one that’s due out ‘in a few months.’

Vazen’s new 28mm T2.2 1.8x anamorphic lens for MFT camera systems is the second lens in its MFT anamorphic lineup, following up on its 40mm T2, an impressive anamorphic lens we had a little fun with on DPRTV. The new 28mm T2.2 features a lightweight design that Vazen claims makes it the ‘World’s Lightest 1.8x Anamorphic Lens for Panasonic GH5, Z-Cam E2 & Blackmagic Pocket 4k.’

It weighs just 720g (1.59lbs) and measures 80mm (3.15in) diameter and 107mm (4.2in) long. Its T-stop range is T2.2 through T16, it features a 72-degree angle of view and it has a minimum focusing distance of 82cm (2.7ft). Below is a sample video of footage captured with the lens on a ZcamE2(Vazen also shared this slightly NSFW music video captured with the lens):

In addition to the new 28mm T2.2 lens, Vazen also confirmed it’s adding a third lens to this lineup, a 65mm anamorphic lens. No details are given on the specs, but Vazen does not the 65mm lens ‘is expected to have the strongest anamorphic “character.”’

The Vazen 28mm T2.2 1.8x anamorphic lens for MFT camera systems is currently available to purchase through Vazen’s website for $ 3,250. If you purchase both the 28mm T2.2 and the 40mm T2 as a kit, Vazen drops the price for the pair by $ 400.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto launches new ‘Pro Rugged’ line of SD, Micro SD memory cards

15 Jan

Italian tripod and accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has launched a range of memory cards that it claims is the strongest on the market. Comprising of SD, MicroSD and CompactFlash models, the Pro Rugged series is claimed to combine high-speed performance with waterproof, crush-proof and temperature-proof build quality that can withstand extremes of use and conditions.

The SD cards particularly are sealed against ingress of water and dust, and can remain underwater for up to 72 hours without suffering damage. They are made from a solid moulded piece of plastic and are said to be three times stronger than normal cards and able to survive a 20kg impact. Tested in temperatures of between -25 degrees C to 85 degrees C, the SD cards come in 64 and 128GB capacities and have a V90 rating that sees 280MB/s and 250MB/s read/write speeds.

The Pro Rugged MicroSD cards are V30 rated, offer 90MB/s read/write speeds and come in 64 and 128GB capacities, while the CompactFlash cards are UDMA 7 rated, offer 160MB/s and 130MB/s read/write speeds and also come in 64/128GB varieties. The CF cards aren’t waterproof but Manfrotto claims they are made from tougher materials than most cards, that they will last longer and that they can withstand a 35kg impact. They are suited to use in temperatures of between freezing and 70 degrees C.

The SD cards are half price at the moment on the Manfrotto website and are listed at $ 57.50/£47.50 and $ 112.50/£92.50, while the CF cards are $ 80/£65 and $ 150/£125 and the MicroSD cards are $ 32/£27 and $ 42/£35. Visit Manfrotto’s website for more information.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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These are the next lenses you should buy for your new Micro Four Thirds camera

28 Dec

From pocket-sized prime lenses to fast zooms designed to weather the elements, there are lenses of all shapes and sizes for Micro Four Thirds shooters. If you’ve recently acquired one of these cameras then we’ve got some ideas for your next lens.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Meike releases 35mm T2.2 cinema lens for Micro Four Thirds camera systems

26 Nov

Meike has announced a new 35mm T2.2 cinema lens for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera systems.

The fully-manual lens is constructed of 10 elements in 8 groups, features an aperture range of T2.2-T22, has a minimum focusing distance of 42cm (16.5in) and is the equivalent of a 70mm lens on a full-frame camera. Its focus ring offers 270-degrees of rotation, its front filter thread is 77mm and it weighs 660g (23oz).

The Meike 35mm T2.2 is available to purchase on Meike Global’s website for $ 359.99.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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