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Posts Tagged ‘stabilized’

Meizu unveils the 15 Plus smartphone with stabilized tele-camera

24 Apr

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Meizu has launched a new high-end model, the Meizu 15 Plus. And based on specs alone, the 15 Plus could be well-worth a closer look for mobile photographers who are open to the idea of buying from a less established brand.

In the camera department, a 12MP 1/2.3″ main sensor is combined with a 20MP secondary camera that features a 2x zoom factor. On the main camera, light is captured through a F1.8 lens while the tele-lens has to make do with a slower F2.8 aperture. Both lenses are equipped with optical image stabilization, though.

As with most similar systems, the optical zoom is enhanced with computational methods and Meizu promises a 3x “lossless” zoom, and the cameras features multi-frame noise reduction and HDR as well. To view and edit those images, the phone is equipped with a 5.95-inch AMOLED screen with QHD resolution and a notch-less 16:9 aspect ratio.

In the processing department, the Meizu deploys the Exynos 8895 chipset from last year’s Samsung flagship models, and users can choose between 64 or 128GB storage—unfortunately, there is no expansion slot. All components are housed in a body made of a stainless steel aluminum composite material.

The Meizu 15 Plus costs CNY 3,000 (approximately US$ 475) for the 64GB version and CNY 3,300 (approximately US$ 525) for the 128GB model. This sounds like a very decent deal for a tele-camera equipped device with high-end specs, but unfortunately, no pricing information for outside China has been provided as of yet.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Gallery and impressions: The Tamron 100-400mm F4.5-6.3 is light, sharp and stabilized

28 Jan
Shot on the Canon EOS 80D.
ISO 800 | 154mm | 1/200 sec | F5.6

The Tamron 100-400mm F4.5-6.3 Di VC USD is a well-priced ($ 800) telephoto lens with a useful zoom range. Available in both Canon EF and Nikon F mount, this lens is useful on both full-frame and crop bodies, offering a 150-600mm equiv. field of view on the latter. We first saw it at PPE 2017 and were impressed by its reasonable size and weight given its reach – at 1.11 kg / 2.45 lb – it is the lightest lens in its class.

See our Tamron 100-400mm F4.5-6.3 sample gallery Optically, the 100-400mm is constructed of 17 elements arranged in 11 groups, including low-dispersion elements to correct for aberrations. It also features multiple coatings to reduce ghosting and flare, as well as a protective fluorine coating on the front element. Image stabilization is crucial when it comes to long zoom lenses and Tamron’s optical Vibration Correction system offers the equivalent of 4 stops of correction (CIPA rated).

Shown with the optional tripod collar attached, sold separately for $ 130.

Key Specifications:

  • 100-400mm zoom range
  • 150-600mm equiv. field of view on APS-C
  • F4.5-6.3 maximum aperture
  • VC Image stablization
  • Dust and moisture resistant
  • Silent AF
  • Florine coating on front element
  • Minimum focus distance: 1.5m
  • Maximum magnification ratio: 1:3.6
  • Filter thread: 67mm
  • Available in Canon EF and Nikon F mount

Wildlife and outdoor sports shooters can take solace in the fact that this lens is moisture resistant, with eight rubber gaskets, including one at the base of the lens mount. It’s compatible with Tamron’s TAP-in Console, allowing users to update firmware and/or fine-tune AF. It can also be used with the company’s 1.4X and 2X teleconverters. An A035TM accessory tripod collar is sold separately for $ 130.

Shot on the Canon EOS 5DS R.
ISO 200 | 100mm | 1/1600 sec | F4.5

Design and Handling

According to Tamron the lightweight design of this lens is mostly due to its magnesium alloy internal construction, though it is worth noting the outer shell of the lens is plastic (the lens mount is metal). The lens telescopes when zoomed, increasing in length about 50%. At its most compact it is about 20 cm / 7.8 in long.

Well-constructed, solid feeling and well-balanced, nothing rattles around inside the lens when shaken (my favorite test). Zooming from 100mm to 400mm requires a one quarter turn of the large rubberized zoom ring (located at the front of the lens).

Zooming from 100mm to 400mm requires a one quarter turn of the large rubberized zoom ring

‘Lens creep’ is an annoying fact of life when using telescoping lenses, fortunately it was not an issue during field testing. Just in case, there is a lock on the lens barrel (which can only be used when the zoom is retracted in to 100mm).

Toward the base of the lens barrel you’ll find an AF/MF switch as well as as a controller for selecting one’s VC (vibration compensation) mode: Mode 1 is for normal stabilization, Mode 2 is for use when panning. Users can also turn off VC completely, which useful if you’re on a tripod. Just below the focus ring is the focus distance scale window.

Performance

Hand-held at 400mm, shot using a 1/125 sec shutter because I live in Seattle and it is always dark outside. Shot on the Canon EOS 80D
ISO 800 | 400mm | 1/125 sec | F6.3

Tamron is pitching this lens as appropriate for sports and wildlife shooters, two groups that require reliable AF and effective stabilization. Fortunately, our real world usage shows the 100-400mm excelling in both areas.

The image stabilization system proved effective at helping to eliminate camera shake at shutter speeds I’d ordinarily not feel comfortable using, given the focal length used. The moment you engage AF the IS system kicks in – with one’s eye to the finder the effectiveness of the compensation is immediately apparent.

Autofocus is both silent (hello ultrasonic drive) and fast (powered by two processors). Acquisition is nearly instant in AF-S and it’s equally fast and impressive in AF-C. Users can expect it to maintain focus on the moving subjects they point it at, assuming their camera body is up to the challenge.

Image Quality

The lens is sharp through the zoom range, out of focus areas are also inoffensive. Shot on the Canon EOS 5DS R.
ISO 400 | 400mm | 1/500 sec | F6.3

Though this lens has a slow maximum aperture and is best used for daylight shooting, all signs point to it being optically very good. Our copy of the 100-400mm was well-centered and universally sharp across the frame at all focal lengths we shot. Ghosting and flare are rare.

[It is] universally sharp across the frame at all focal lengths we shot

Chromatic aberration is also really well controlled, though it does appears in some images. Lateral CA is easy to correct in Adobe Camera Raw and other Raw processing programs.However axial CA, which you can see in this shot, is much more difficult to correct for. We also noted some vignetting when used on full-frame, but that is also fairly easy to correct in post.

Bokeh is about what we would expect for a complex telephoto lens. It can look nice toward the longer end, when there’s good subject separation, but closer to 100mm, it can look a little busy, as is the case in this shot.

Conclusion

For travel photographers looking for a casual, lightweight telephoto lens to explore with, the Tamron 100-400 F4.5-6.3 is a solid choice. Shot on the EOS 5DS R.
ISO 400 | 143mm | 1/1250 sec | F5

The Tamron 100-400mm F4.5-6.3 is a great telephoto lens for daylight photography, whether your subjects are moving or not. It offers fast, silent autofocus, good stabilization and is optically impressive at all focal lengths. All that comes in a weather-resistant package that also happens to be the lightest in its class.

We feel comfortable giving it our recommendation

Priced the same as the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM, the most obvious difference between the two is the Tamron is faster on the wide end, F4.5 vs F5 (and it’s also a hair lighter). That aside, the two offer very similar features like image stabilization, multi layer coatings and special elements for dealing with CA. We’ll have to revisit the Sigma to see just how well the two compare. But having spent a good amount of time with the Tamron, we feel comfortable giving it our recommendation.

What we like:

  • Sharp, versatile zoom range on both APS-C and full-frame
  • Lightest lens in its class
  • Moisture and dust resistant
  • Impressive image stablization
  • Silent AF is fast and accurate

What we don’t:

  • Slow aperture range
  • Pricey tripod collar sold separately
  • Vignettes on full-frame (though easy to correct)

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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Apple iPhone 8 Plus offers dual stabilized dual-cam, iPhone X goes edge-to-edge

13 Sep

At its event in the brand new Steve Jobs Theater, Apple has today unveiled its latest iPhone models, the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus. Despite the direct step from the iPhone 7 to the 8 model number, rather than 7s, the new models look at first sight like fairly incremental upgrades.

The design is very similar to the iPhone 7 series but the phones now come with glass at front and back. The Retina displays still offer 4.7″ and 5.5″ diagonals and a wide color gamut. True Tone technology, which adjusts the temperature of the display in different surroundings, is also on board.

Both phones are powered by the new A11 Bionic six-core CPU which includes two high-performance cores, which are 25 percent faster than the current A10. The chip also comes with a new image signal processor (ISP) which, Apple says, helps improve low-light performance of the camera using multi-band noise reduction.

Other camera specs looks similar to the previous models. The iPhone 8 camera comes with a 12MP sensor that, according to Apple, captures 83 percent more light and is more power efficient than the predecessors. As before, there are a F1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization.

The 8 Plus main cameras is the same as on the iPhone 8 but there’s a secondary 12MP cameras for zooming and depth effects that comes with a F2.8 aperture. In video mode both devices can now record slow-motion footage at 1080p and 240 frames per second. Portrait mode gets an upgrade too, with a new beta Portrait Lighting mode to imitate various lighting effects.

The iPhone 8 models are also the first iPhones to come with the Qi wireless charging standard. Storage options range from 64 to 256GB and pre-order for both models starts on September 15th. Shipping is envisaged for September 22nd. The iPhone 8 will start at $ 699, for the Plus model you’ll have to invest at least $ 100 more.

The iPhone 8 models were not the only new smartphone at Apple’s event, though. The company also had a “one more thing” announcement in the shape of the much rumored iPhone X. The X comes with a new design that incorporates a 5.8″ edge-to-edge 2436 x 1125 pixel HDR OLED display, a first for Apple.

Like on the 8 models there is glass on front and back of the water and dust proof body which also does away with Apple’s characteristic home button.

Instead there is now Face ID: the device uses a range of sensors at the front, including the 7MP front cam, in combination with neural networking algorithms for face recognition and unlocking the phone. In dark surroundings your face will be illuminated by a front LED for this purpose.

The rear camera is an improvement over the iPhone 8 Plus. The 12MP dual-cam comes with “larger and faster sensors”, F1.8 and F2.4 apertures and optical image stabilization on both lenses which should particularly improve image quality of the tele lens in low light.

The iPhone X will be available in 64 and 256GB versions and set you back at least $ 999. It will be available on November 3rd. As usual, we’ll have to wait a few days until the full device specs trickle through but let us know in the comments what you think about the latest iPhone camera configurations so far.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon unveils stabilized EF 85mm F1.4L lens

29 Aug

Canon has announced the EF 85mm F1.4L IS USM stabilized portrait prime. It’s the company’s first F1.4 offering at that focal length, joining its current EF 85mm F1.8 USM and EF 85mm F1.2L II USM lenses. The EF 85mm F1.4L provides up to four stops of stabilization, uses a nine-blade aperture and offers a dust and weather-resistant build.

In terms of the competition, the new EF 85mm F1.4L doesn’t aim to beat the $ 1200 Sigma 85mm F1.4 Art on price: it will debut at $ 1600. At 950g / 33.5oz it does weigh significantly less than the Sigma, even with stabilization, but that may say more about the quite heavy 1130g / 39.9oz Art lens than it does about the Canon.

The Canon EF 85mm F1.4L IS USM is expected to ship in November.

Press release

CANON U.S.A. EXPANDS ITS LENS PORTFOLIO WITH THE NEW EF 85MM F/1.4L IS USM LENS AND THEIR FIRST-EVER MACRO TILT-SHIFT LENSES

New Canon EF Lenses Support a Variety of Photography Applications including Architecture, Portrait, Food and Landscape

MELVILLE, N.Y., August 29, 2017 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the new Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM lens as an addition to the Company’s existing 85mm focal-range lens line-up and three new Tilt-Shift macro lenses: the TS-E 50mm f/2.8L Macro lens, TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Macro lens and TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro lens. Canon also announced a new Macro Twin-Lite MT-26EX-RT flash. These new products will help provide both advanced amateur and professional photographers the unique photography tools for a variety of applications and solutions including architecture, landscape, food, product and portrait photography.

“Creating a powerful, timeless image requires more than just a camera. It requires high-quality, well-crafted optics and flashes to capture compelling photography,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., “These new lenses along and the Macro Twin-Lite flash will continue to push the boundaries and expand the possibilities of what advanced amateur and professional photographers capture and share with the world.”

Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM Lens
Canon EF 85mm focal-length lenses are traditionally very sought-after options for portrait photographers. With that in mind, Canon is expanding its EF 85mm line up with the introduction of the new Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM; the first Canon EF 85mm lens to feature image stabilization, providing up to four stops* of shake correction for smooth and crisp imagery.

The EF 85mm utilizes one large diameter, high-precision molded glass aspherical lens and features an ASC coating. The large f/1.4 aperture produces shallow depth-of-field, fast shutter speeds and a bright image inside the viewfinder, allowing photographers to focus and compose their image reliably. In addition, a circular aperture with 9-blade iris allows for beautiful bokeh.

The New Canon EF 85mm f/1.4 L IS USM is scheduled to be available November 2017 for an estimated retail price of $ 1599.00††.

New Tilt-Shift Lenses
Tilt-Shift lenses have several applications for suitable photographers because of their ability to provide enhanced creative control over perspective through the tilt function and depth-of-field through the shift function in their images. This ability can be optimal when photographing landscapes, portraits, and architecture.

The image quality derived from Canon Tilt-Shift lenses has evolved considerably since their first inception several years ago. Enhanced optical elements like molded aspherical glass and UD lenses are at the core of the new Canon TS-E 50mm f/2.8L Macro lens, TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Macro lens and TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro lens. These features provide users with edge-to-edge resolution, improved image quality over previous Canon TS-E lenses and minimum distortion. Canon also included two anti-reflective coatings, SubWaveLength Structure Coating (SWC) in the TS-E 50mm f/2.8L and TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro lenses and Air-Sphere Coating (ASC), into the TS-E 50mm f/2.8L and TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Macro lenses. SWC helps to reduce flare and ghosting, while ASC is a new technology that provides amazingly high, anti-reflective performance, particularly when alleviating incidental light that can enter a lens.

The new Canon Tilt-Shift lenses also offer improved operability over previous models, including larger tilt, shift-and-lock knobs, lock-release button and a new tilt-locking mechanism that firmly locks the lens in the zero-tilt position to help prevent unintended tilting to increase more precise shooting capabilities. The rotation of the tilt-shift lenses also allows users to freely change the axis of tilt movement and shift from right angles to parallel to better adapt to various shooting conditions and situations.

The new Canon TS-E 50mm f/2.8L Macro lens, TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Macro lens and TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro lenses are scheduled to be available November 2017 for an estimated retail price of $ 2199.00††.

Canon Macro Twin-Lite MT-26EX-RT Flash
To further enhance a photographer’s ability to shoot macro photography, the new Canon Macro Twin-Lite MT-26EX-RT Flash can be the ideal tool. The use of a macro twin-lite allows for a more ideal lighting situation for photographers, and can be adjusted and shifted depending on the direction the photographer would like to control. Detachable macro twin lites can be rotated up to 60 degrees, and features a maximum guide number of 85.3 ft (26 m)**.

The new Canon Macro Twin-Lite MT-26EX-RT Flash inherits the ease of use and operability of Canon’s latest Speedlite EX series flashes and increased brightness of the focusing lamp compared to previous Canon Macro-Twin Lites. There is also less noise produced from the charging of the lights.

The new Canon Macro Twin-Lite MT-26EX-RT Flash is scheduled to be available November 2017, for an estimated retail price of $ 989.99††.

For more information on all of these products, please visit usa.canon.com

* Based on CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards. Testing performed using the EOS-1D X Mark II SLR camera. The number of stops may vary based on the camera model used.

**Guide Number reflects the amount when both sides are fired. Flash output for quick flash (green ready light) is approximately 1/2 to 1/6 of full output (depending on the charge status).

†† Availability, prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set be individual dealers and may vary.

Canon EF 85mm F1.4L IS USM Specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 85 mm
Image stabilization Yes (4 stops)
Lens mount Canon EF
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 14
Groups 10
Special elements / coatings One molded glass aspherical element + air sphere and fluorine coatings.
Focus
Minimum focus 0.85 m (33.46″)
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale No
Focus distance limiter No
Physical
Weight 950 g (2.09 lb)
Diameter 87 mm (3.43″)
Length 105 mm (4.13″)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Filter thread 77.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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First look video: YI 4K+ action camera shoots 4K/60p and stabilized 4K/30p

20 Feb

The YI 4K+ uses the latest generation of Ambarella processing chip, making it capable of 4K/60p video capture. It can also shoot impressively smooth 4K/30p footage using electronic stabilization. Other standout features include a 2.2″ Gorilla Glass touch display, the best user interface of any action camera on the market and USB-C connectivity.

We’re eager to spend more time putting the YI 4K+ to the test. Keep your eyes peeled for an updated 4K action camera roundup coming this spring.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Vivo Xplay6 features 4-axis stabilized 12MP dual-cam

19 Nov

Chinese manufacturer Vivo has unveiled its high-end model Xplay6 and the new device comes with an interesting (at least on paper) dual-camera setup. The main sensor is a 12MP 1/2.55″ Sony IMX362 chip with a 1.4um pixel size. It is coupled with a fast F1.7 aperture lens, four-axis optical image stabilization and a dual-tone LED. Phase detection AF is on board as well and the main sensor is supported by 5MP secondary chip for depth measurement, which will presumably be used to create a ‘fake bokeh’ effect.

The front camera comes with a 16MP sensor and F2 aperture and images can be composed and viewed on a curved 5.46″ QHD AMOLED display. Also included are a fingerprint sensor and a headphone-jack with dedicated amp. Android 6.0 Marshmallow and Vivo’s Funtouch OS 3.0 are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chipset and a whopping  6GB of RAM. 128GB are available for storage and a 4,080 mAh battery should get you easily through the day. 

All the high-end components are wrapped up in a metal body that is available in gold or rose gold. The Xplay6 will become available in China on December 12 for approximately $ 651. No detail on international availability has been released yet. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony’s new flagship FDR-X3000 action cam shoots stabilized 4K video

09 Sep
The new Sony X3000 both offer image stabilization, with the X3000 (left) shooting 4K and the (center) Full HD. Both are sold in optional kits with the new, smaller live-view remote.

Sony has announced that the 4K-capable flagship FDR-X3000 action camera (previously announced in Japan) will go on sale in North America, along with the Full HD FDR-AS300 action camera. Both makes use of Sony’s Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilization (BOSS – yes, really), which can be used when shooting 4K video on the X3000 and Full HD on the AS300. 

Stabilized 4K footage from an action camera is a very big deal. Of the cameras included in our recent 2016 Action Camera roundup, only one is capable of stabilized 4K, and it’s an adventure tracker, not an action camera.

Both the X3000 and AS300 also feature new Zeiss lens designs, and utilize 8.2MP BSI Exmor R CMOS sensors with full sensor readout and no pixel binning. The models feature identical designs, and are smaller than previous Sony action cameras. The user interface has also been vastly improved.

The X3000 will be sold body-only for $ 400 and kitted with a new 30% smaller live view remote (X3000R) for $ 450. The AS300 will be sold body-only for $ 300 and kitted with the new live view remote (AS300R) for $ 450. Both will be available in North America in late September.

Press Release:

Sony Announces new Flagship 4K and HD Action Cams with Superior Image Stabilization

New 4K and HD POV Cameras Feature Balanced Optical SteadyShot® Image Stabilization, Live-View Remote, 4K Time-lapse Capture and other professional capabilities

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 9, 2016 – Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging, has today introduced their first POV cameras to feature the innovative Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) image stabilization technology, the FDR-X3000R 4K*  model and HDR-AS300R Full HD model.

The flagship feature of the two new cameras – Balanced Optical SteadyShot* – is an advanced form of image stabilization where internally, the camera’s lens and sensor are joined and moved together to compensate for camera shake caused by excessive motion, whether shooting handheld with optional accessories or during a fast-paced sporting activity. This is a particularly effective technology when paired with a POV action camera design as it ensures captured video footage is smooth and stable – even in 4K or high-frame-rate shooting modes.

Advanced Movie-Making Capabilities

The versatile new FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R Action Cam feature a new ZEISS® Tessar lens with significantly less lens distortion than previous models3. They are also equipped with a new back-illuminated Exmor R® CMOS sensor with large pixels designed for 16:9 aspect ratio video plus a powerful BIONZ X™ processor, ensuring that video quality remains consistently strong across all settings.

The new cameras utilize full pixel readout without pixel binning technology to produce exceptionally high resolution and accurate colors in both 4K (FDR-X3000R only) and Full HD videos. This allows them to read and process data from all of the sensor’s pixels, producing highly detailed video content with minimal noise and ‘jaggies’ in a variety of formats including the high data stream XAVC S™ codec (100Mbps in 4K and 50Mbps in Full HD) 4. The FDR-X3000R can also shoot 120p in Full HD and HDR-AS300R can shoot 120p in HD for impressive slow-motion footage 5. Both cameras offer a new angle of view adjustment, with a 3x smooth zoom or preset “wide”, “medium” and “narrow”6 settings. This allows shooters to get even closer to the action during movie recording, and reducing barrel distortion common with wide view POV cameras.

FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R each have a built-in stereo mic7 with wind noise reduction to reduce the impact of wind interference on overall audio quality, and are equipped with stereo microphone input for advanced recording.

Live–View Remote and User Interface

Sony’s new Action Cam models will be offered in a kit with a compact Live-View Remote8 that is about 30% smaller than previous9 version. The remote, with a mountable design, acts as an extension of the camera and allows users to see what is being recorded when the camera is not accessible. The remote has the ability to control various functionalities including shooting settings, start/stop recording, power on/off and more. It also features an “auto display off” mode that turns off its LCD screen display automatically during shooting in order to save power of both camera and remote.

The versatile remote accessory can be attached to various optional accessories such as Finger Grip (AKA-FGP1), Shooting Grip (VCT-STG1) or Handlebar Mount (VCT-HM2) using supplied mount adaptor, or worn as a wristband using supplied belt. Users can also utilize Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile™ application – available for both Android and iOS – to control the new Action Cam with a smart device10.

Based on extensive feedback from athletes, filmmakers and more casual users, the new cameras and Live-View Remote feature a more in-depth user interface and menu system, with a rich indication of camera settings that makes it easier to navigate menus and customize settings as needed. The new models also offers “Wi-Fi high power mode”, which extends to communication distance between the camera and Live-View Remote11 for more flexible shooting.

Additional Feature Enhancements

The FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R both include a unique Time-lapse Capture feature that shoots still images in pre-set intervals that can later be transformed into a stunning 4K time-lapse movie utilizing the Action Cam Movie Creator software12. The Action Cam App13 can also create time-lapse movies in Full HD.

Built-in GPS inherited from previous models3 is available, allowing location tracking and speedometer to be added to the video file when Action Cam Movie Creator is used. This also allows GPS Data Overlay on video to read your speed data and generate another video file14 that includes your route, speed information, etc.

Additionally, an updated version Sony’s own in-built movie creator – Highlight Movie Maker15 – is available in the new cameras. The innovative feature, which now utilizes face detection technology, automatically assembles footage into a video highlight package and pairs it with custom music for the ultimate viewing experience.

For the more advanced user, there are an expanded scope of manual controls and setting adjustments including white balance, and auto exposure shifting. Loop recording is also available, allowing users to maximize usage of available memory card space to ensure they get the exact shot they are looking for.

The FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R have a splash-proof body and are waterproof with supplied Underwater Housing (MPK-UWH1) 7 that is certified down to 197 ft. / 60m in depth. A new range of accessories for Action Cam has also been announced, including the Finger Grip (AKA-FGP1) that is an ideal travel accessory as it enables flexible one-handed shooting and the MC Protector (AKA-MCP1) for extra protection from lens scratches and dirt.

Pricing and Availability

The new Sony FDR-X3000 will be sold as body only for about $ 400 US ($ 550 CA), and will be offered as a kit (model FDR-X3000R) with the new Live-View Remote for about $ 550 US ($ 700 CA).

The new Sony HDR-AS300 will be sold as a body only for about $ 300 US ($ 400 CA) and will be offered as a kit (model HDR-AS300R) with the new Live-View Remote for about $ 450 US ($ 550 CA).

The new AKA-FGP1 finger grip will be sold for about $ 25 US ($ 40 CA), and the AKA-MCP1 lens shield will be sold for about $ 35 US ($ 50 CA).

All products will be available in North America in late September at authorized dealers.

Notes:

1) 3840 × 2160 pixels.
2) Distortion in image quality or out-of-focus may occur when used in close proximity to vibrating motors and engines. Image results can be improved by using Action Cam with optional accessory Motor Vibration Absorber for X3000/AS300 (AKA-MVA).
3) FDR-X1000V, HDR-AS200V.
4) A micro SDXC/SDHC Class 10 or higher is required for XAVC S recording. Micro SDXC/SDHC UHS-I U3 or higher is required for 4K 100Mbps recording.
5) Requires post-processing for slow-motion movie
6) Medium and narrow are not available in 4K, time-lapse capture, and high speed recording.
7) Recorded sound level is lower when using supplied Underwater Housing (MPK-UWH1).
8) Not sold separately. Included only as part of the FDR-X3000R, HDR-AS300R or HDR-AS50R.
9) Previous model is RM-LVR2.
10) Camera on/off control requires Bluetooth 4.0 compatible smartphone or tablet (iPhone/iPad or Android ver.5.0 or later) with PlayMemories Mobile ver. 5.5 or later.
11) The Live-View Remote may not be able to turn the camera on/off depending on the physical environment and the communication distance. The communication distance will be dependant on the physical environment and connected device.
12) Requires version 5.1 or later for Windows and 3.1 or later for Mac.
13) Requires version 2.0 or later of the application. Available for Android and iOS.
14) Requires version 5.2 or later for Windows and version 3.2 or later for Mac.
15) Requires a smartphone or tablet with PlayMemories Mobile ver.5.1 or later for the operation. Not available in XAVC S 4K, XAVC S HD 24p, and high speed recording modes.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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OnePlus 3 announced with 16MP stabilized camera

17 Jun

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Chinese startup OnePlus has announced its latest high-end device, the OnePlus 3. Like previous models the 3 offers flagship-level specifications and features at a mid-range price point. It is also the first OnePlus device that doesn’t require an invitation to purchase. It can be ordered now on the OnePlus website for $ 399.

The main camera module is centered around a Sony IMX298 16MP sensor with on-sensor phase detection. The chip comes in the 1/2.8″ format and has a pixel size of 1.12-micron. The lens has a fast F2.0 aperture and optical image stabilization. The system is capable of recording Raw image data, 4K video and 720p slow-motion footage. At the front an 8MP Sony IMX179 sensor with 1.4-micron pixel size and F2.0 aperture is capable of recording digitally stabilized 1080p Full-HD video in addition to self-portraits.

The rest of the specification reads very nicely as well, especially considering the 3’s price point. Images can be viewed and composed on a 5.5″ 1080p AMOLED display that is protected by Gorilla Glass 4. Android 6 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chipset and a generous 6GB of RAM. There are 64GB of internal storage which unfortunately is not expandable. A fingerprint reader, dual-SIM connectivity and NFC are on board as well. The 3,000 mAh battery supports quick charging and all the technology is wrapped up in an anodized aluminum body that is available in Graphite and Soft Gold colors.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Asus announces Zenfone 3 Deluxe with stabilized 23MP camera

31 May

Asus has launched three new models in its Zenfone line, out of which the Zenfone 3 Deluxe is arguably the most interesting to mobile photographers. It comes with an impressive camera spec sheet that includes a 23MP 1/2.6-inch Sony IMX 318 sensor, F2.0 aperture, 4-axis optical image stabilization, electronic video stabilization in video mode and an AF-system that combines contrast-detect, phase-detect and laser technologies. At the front there is an 8MP sensor with F2.0 aperture but video shooters will have to make do without a 4K mode. 

Under the hood the Android OS is powered by a Snapdragon 820 chipset and up to an enormous 6GB of RAM. Storage ranges from 32 to 128GB and is expandable via a microSD slot. A fingerprint reader, 3,000mAh battery with QuickCharge technology and a Type-C USB connector are all features you would expect on a current flagship device although the 1080p resolution of the 5.7-inch display cannot quite keep up with the Quad-HD displays of most competitors. All the technology is nicely wrapped up in a full aluminum unibody with “invisible” antenna lines that don’t disturb the overall design language. 

Along with the Zenfone 3 Deluxe Asus has also launched the standard Zenfone 3 that comes with a less powerful chipset, a smaller 5.5-inch display and a 16MP camera. The Ultra model ups the screen size to a massive 6.8-inches and features the same camera as the Deluxe. No information on availability has been released yet but the Zenfone 3 will cost you US249, the Ultra will set you back $ 479 and the Deluxe is the most expensive new model at $ 499.

Press release:

Taipei, Taiwan (30th May, 2016) — ASUS Chairman Jonney Shih took the stage today during the Zenvolution press event at Computex 2016 to unveil Zenbo, the first ASUS robot, along with a stunning portfolio of third-generation mobile products designed to provide users with revolutionary functionality for pursuing their passions. The incredible line-up includes the all-new ZenFone 3 family, featuring ZenFone 3 Deluxe, the new flagship ASUS smartphone with advanced camera technology that takes mobile photography to the next level; ZenFone 3, a feature-packed smartphone that brings premium design and empowering performance to users; and ZenFone 3 Ultra, an incredibly powerful smartphone with a 6.8-inch Full HD display that excels at entertainment. Also announced were ZenBook 3, an ultra-sleek and lightweight notebook with a premium aluminum design, along with ASUS Transformer 3 and ASUS Transformer 3 Pro, the world’s most versatile PCs that feature an unrivalled combination of mobility, convenience, and expandability.

While revealing ASUS Zenbo, Chairman Shih said, “For decades, humans have dreamed of owning such a companion: one that is smart, dear to our hearts, and always at our disposal. Our ambition is to enable robotic computing for every household.”

Joining Mr. Shih on stage, Intel’s Corporate Vice President and General Manager of the Client Computing Group, Navin Shenoy said, “For nearly thirty years, Intel and ASUS have been collaborating to bring some of the most innovative PCs and devices to market. We are excited to continue that collaboration on the new ZenBook and Transformer 3 family powered by Intel Core processors, and we look forward to working closely with ASUS on expanding beyond traditional clients into new, emerging markets like robotics.”

ASUS Zenbo, the ZenFone 3 Series, the ASUS Transformer 3 Series, and a line-up of other all-new ASUS products are on display at the ASUS showroom at the Nangang Exhibition Hall at Taipei World Trade Center. Visitors to Computex 2016 are invited to visit the showroom to experience the revolutionary functionality of these latest ASUS innovations for themselves.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe — World’s First Full-Metal Smartphone with Invisible Antenna Design

ZenFone 3 Deluxe is the flagship model of the ZenFone 3 family and the ultimate expression of ASUS smartphone design. It is constructed with a strong and light aluminum alloy unibody, and has a rear surface free of unsightly antenna lines and an ultra-thin 4.2mm edge.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe features a 5.7-inch Full HD (1920 by 1080) Super AMOLED display with a gamut of over 100% NTSC color space for rich, vibrant colors, even in harsh, outdoor lighting. An ultra-thin bezel gives ZenFone 3 Deluxe a 79% screen-to-body ratio for a maximized display in a compact package. Inside, ZenFone 3 Deluxe has a powerful Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 820 Series processor, Adreno™ 530 GPU, and integrated X12 LTE modem, as well as up to 6GB RAM to deliver the best performance and fast connectivity for demanding apps, games, and media.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe raises the bar for mobile photography with its incredible 23MP camera featuring the latest Sony IMX318 image sensor, a large f/2.0 aperture lens, and 4-axis optical image stabilization for high-resolution, blur-free, and low-noise photos in almost any lighting condition. It also features 3-axis electronic image stabilization for steady 4K UHD videos. Coupled with an ASUS TriTech autofocus system that automatically selects 2nd generation laser, phase detection, or continuous autofocus to provide accurate and nearly instant 0.03-second focusing and subject tracking, as well as exclusive PixelMaster 3.0 technology, ZenFone 3 Deluxe captures truly stunning photos and videos.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe has a built-in fingerprint sensor that’s perfectly positioned on the rear of the phone to sit underneath the user’s finger and unlocks the phone in just a fraction of a second. Quick Charge 3.0 technology reduces battery recharge times and a reversible USB 3.0 Type-C port that makes connecting charging and accessory cables effortless.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe also excels at audio with its powerful five-magnet speaker and NXP smart amplifier that provides clear, defined sound and also protects the speakers from damage. When listening over certified headphones, users can enjoy Hi-Res Audio (HRA) that provides up four-times-better sound quality than CDs. 

ZenFone 3 — Agility, Beauty, and Clarity

Winner of a Computex 2016 d&i Award, ZenFone 3 is a feature-packed smartphone that brings premium design and empowering performance to everyone. Built around a gorgeous 5.5-inch Full HD (1920 by 1080) Super IPS+ display with up to 500cd/m2 brightness, ZenFone 3 delivers an incredible visual experience that makes apps, videos, and games look their best. With a narrow bezel, ZenFone 3 provides a 77.3% screen-to-body ratio for a maximized viewing area in a slim and compact body. The front and rear of the phone are encased with scratch-resistant 2.5D Corning® Gorilla® Glass that gently curves to make the edge of the phone completely smooth.

ZenFone 3 is equipped with a 16MP camera with ASUS TriTech autofocus that automatically selects 2nd generation laser, phase detection and continuous auto focus to achieve precise focus in just 0.03 seconds, resulting in sharp images in any condition.

ZenFone 3 is the first smartphone worldwide to be powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 octa?core processor — the first Snapdragon 600 Series processor with 14nm FinFET process technology, an integrated X9 LTE modem, and 802.11ac MU-MIMO Wi-Fi connectivity — PC-grade graphics and up to 4GB RAM that together deliver outstanding mobile performance with improved efficiency and battery life. ZenFone 3 has a built-in fingerprint sensor that’s perfectly positioned on the rear of the phone to sit underneath the user’s finger and unlocks the phone in just a fraction of a second. 

ZenFone 3 Ultra — Unleashed, Unlimited, and Unrivaled

Winner of a Computex 2016 Best Choice Golden Award, ZenFone 3 Ultra is a smartphone designed for multimedia lovers, featuring a 6.8-inch Full HD (1920 by 1080) display with a 95% NTSC color gamut for rich, vibrant images even outdoors in harsh lighting. It is the world’s first smartphone to have ASUS-exclusive Tru2Life+ Video technology, which harnesses a high-end 4K UHD TV-grade image processor to optimize every pixel in each frame before it is displayed, resulting in superior contrast and clarity. ZenFone 3 Ultra also excels at audio with its two new powerful five-magnet stereo speakers and a NXP smart amplifier that provides clear, defined sound and protects the speakers from damage. When listening over certified headphones, users can enjoy Hi-Res Audio (HRA) that provides up to four-times-better sound quality than CDs and the world’s first smartphone with virtual 7.1-channel surround sound with DTS Headphone:X.

Like ZenFone 3 Deluxe, ZenFone 3 Ultra has an incredibly slim and elegant full-metal unibody chassis — the world’s first to have no antenna lines. An ultra slim bezel gives ZenFone 3 Ultra a 79% screen-to-body ratio, maximizing the viewing area while minimizing its overall size and weight. ZenFone 3 Ultra is equipped with the same high-resolution 23MP camera with ASUS TriTech autofocus system as ZenFone 3 Deluxe. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 652 octa-core processor, Adreno 510 graphics, and up to 4GB of RAM, ZenFone 3 Ultra delivers outstanding mobile performance. A built-in fingerprint sensor is perfectly positioned on the front of the phone beneath the user’s finger and unlocks the phone in just a fraction of a second.

ZenFone 3 Ultra also has a high-capacity 4600mAh battery for long-lasting performance and Quick Charge 3.0 technology for rapid recharge times. ZenFone 3 Ultra even works as a power bank with 1.5A output for quickly charging other mobile devices.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI introduces stabilized Osmo Gimbal handle with 4K 12MP camera

16 Oct

DJI, the maker of Phantom drones, has introduced a stabilized handheld 4K video system that uses a gimbal head to produce smooth video footage. The DJI Osmo is a handle-mount with a 3-axis head that senses movement and cancels out sudden jerks and bumps to ensure the camera moves slowly and the footage looks professional. Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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