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The Nikkor Z 24-50mm F4-6.3 is a compact $400 zoom

21 Jul

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Alongside the entry-level Z5 full-framer, Nikon has announced a new compact zoom lens for mirrorless full-frame: the 24-50mm F4-6.3. It will be offered as a kit lens option with the Z5, but will also sell separately for $ 400, making it Nikon’s smallest and most affordable Z-series lens. The 24-50mm measures just 51mm (2″) long when retracted. Nikon describes the lens as ‘dust and drip resistant,’ though not fully weather-sealed.

The Nikon 24-50mm F4-6.3 will be available in August for $ 400. Later that month, the much-anticipated and long-delayed Nikkor Z 70-200mm F2.8 VR S will ship at an MSRP of $ 2599.

Press release:

EMBARK ON THE FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS JOURNEY: NIKON UNVEILS THE Z 5, AN INNOVATIVE AND FEATURE-RICH MIRRORLESS FX-FORMAT CAMERA FOR EMERGING CREATORS

Nikon Expands the NIKKOR Z Lens Lineup with the Addition of the Extremely Compact and Versatile NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 as well as the new Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X and TC-1.4X; Nikon Also Announces Free Webcam Utility

MELVILLE, NY (July 21, 2020) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the Z 5, the new full-frame (FX-format) entry-point into its award-winning lineup of Z series mirrorless cameras. The Nikon Z 5 combines sophisticated features inherited from the Z 7 and Z 6 with the benefits of Nikon’s next generation Z mount at an unprecedented value. For those new to mirrorless or creators looking to push the limits of their craft with the power of full-frame, the compact Z 5 will exceed expectations. With an incredibly robust feature set, including in-camera vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization (IBIS) and the perfect balance of seamless automation and full manual control, creators can effortlessly share their artistic passions, travel adventures and so much more.

Nikon also unveiled the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, the shortest, lightest and most affordable full-frame zoom lens in the NIKKOR Z lineup. Designed for on-the-go creators, the 24-50mm lens is the ideal companion for Z series users who want to capture it all – from vast landscapes and cityscapes, to street photography and striking portraits.

“The Nikon Z 5 offers the next generation of creators a gateway into the full-frame Z series lineup, opening the door to the limitless possibilities of mirrorless photo and video capture, while providing the means to share their creativity with others,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “With the addition of the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, Nikon is introducing the smallest full-frame NIKKOR Z lens to date, providing an extremely lightweight, versatile option to help users pursue all creative endeavors, regardless of which Z series camera they use.”

Nikon Z 5: The Full-Frame Journey Starts Here
As the new entry point to Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless lineup, the Nikon Z 5 offers a lot of power and capabilities at an attractive price, empowering the next generation to begin their journey with the confidence to learn and grow as creators.

  • Incredible Image Quality: Featuring a powerful FX-format 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, the Z 5 is the gateway to the benefits of full-frame, helping creators to capture intensely detailed images, ultra-shallow depth of field and clean low-light shots with unrivaled consistency. From portraits that flatter, nighttime landscapes that astound and street shots that impress, the gorgeous tones, faithful colors, minimal noise, and revered Nikon color science all play a part to help users capture images that are true to their vision.
  • High Speed Performance and Processing: Engineered with the EXPEED 6, Nikon’s fastest image processor to date, the Z 5 is a dependable, high-performance tool designed for content creation. EXPEED 6 allows for a boost in processing power and energy efficiency while rendering subtle textures and small details with amazing results.
  • Stellar Low-Light Performance: With an ISO range up to 51,200 (expandable to 102,400), the camera effectively reduces noise, maintaining both high sensitivity and resolution to excel in low-light situations, making it ideal for shooting everything from low-light events to an all-nighter under the Milky Way.
  • Capture with Speed: With shutter speeds up to 1/8000, the Z 5 can capture fast-moving subjects with clarity including fast-action sports and wildlife. This higher maximum shutter speed enables photographers to better tame even the brightest mid-day light to unleash the potential of fast-aperture NIKKOR glass. When the moment strikes, the camera can also capture full resolution bursts at 4.5 fps with full AF/AE.
  • Silent and Smooth: The combination of the camera’s silent photography mode and In-Body 5-Axis VR stabilization provides quiet, stable shooting to document sensitive moments without distractions.
  • Vast Lens Selection: Whether shooting glamorous portraits from a studio on the sidewalk, long-distance wildlife, epic wide landscapes in the field or street photography, the growing lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses provides Z 5 users the versatility to capture incredible shots with sharpness across the frame and superior light gathering in any situation. For even more flexibility, the vast array of traditional F-mount NIKKOR lenses can be used via the Mount Adapter FTZ to enhance images with a unique focal length or beautiful bokeh, while gaining the benefits of in-body stabilization.
  • Dual UHS-II SD Card Slots: Equipped with two UHS-II card slots for overflow, backup or separating RAW and JPEG photos, the Z 5 enables photographers to shoot with extreme confidence when using widely available consumer SD cards.

Simple Yet Sophisticated for Expanding Creativity
A great option for emerging creators getting started, the Nikon Z 5 is packed with powerful tools and user-friendly controls to help users explore and capture their artistry with ease.

  • Focus Anywhere: The Z 5 boasts 273[1] on-sensor AF points, to quickly and accurately track subjects throughout the frame, while Eye-Detection AF capabilities help precisely capture the eyes of humans and animals. The wide array of AF points covers nearly the entire frame, and multiple AF modes allows the user to have pinpoint control or fully automatic assurance to easily lock onto a subject.
  • Easily Shift Gears: The Nikon Z 5 offers the ability to effortlessly switch between manual mode for the ultimate in control, as well as a large variety of automatic creative modes to help mirrorless users capture truly distinct images and video.
  • Creativity Built-in: Equipped with 20 Creative Picture Controls, and advanced features like Focus Shift Shooting and multiple exposure mode, users can compose unique images, produce extraordinary depth of field, or combine several shots and layer images on top of each other with the in-camera image overlay function.
  • Advanced Video Capture: The Z 5 makes it easy to document any creative vision in 4K UHD/30p[2] or in 1080/60p (full-frame). When recording video, the PDAF system is rapid to react, allowing users to quickly lock critical focus on subjects, and is fully customizable to fit any production style. In-camera VR image stabilization and electronic VR reliably eliminate the shake when shooting video, plus users get the added benefit of focus peaking and the ability to capture stills while recording.
  • Flexible Recording Modes: In addition to the traditional interval timer and in-camera time-lapse modes, the Nikon Z 5 is equipped with a new Time-Lapse Movie mode that gives users the best of both worlds for more streamlined movie making – the ability to use images from interval timer mode and create a time-lapse in-camera.
  • Unique Lighting Options: For enhanced creative control, the camera features a hot shoe, and is fully compatible with the Nikon Speedlight wireless lighting system.
  • Get Connected: The Nikon SnapBridge[3] app makes it easy to remotely control the Z 5 or seamlessly transfer and share content to a smartphone, tablet, Mac, or PC thanks to built-in Wi-Fi[4] and Bluetooth[5] connectivity.

Rugged Reliability and Engineered for Versatility
In addition to providing high-quality imaging capabilities, the Nikon Z 5 is compact and comfortable in-hand while promising the rugged reliability as well as innovative features and controls that Nikon is known for.

  • Legendary Nikon Build: Designed with a durable, weather-sealed exterior for worry-free use, the Z 5 employs the same magnesium alloy shell and robustness as the Z 6 and Z 7. Both the camera and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens are built with consideration for dust and drip resistance and are ready to tackle the next adventure.
  • Functional Operability: The camera sports a powerful, high-resolution 3.2-inch LCD monitor with the capabilities to tilt, touch, tap, swipe, and pinch for an intuitive and flexible user-experience. Meanwhile, the 3.6M-dot Quad-VGA EVF ensures users can see exposure, ISO, white balance and creative picture controls in real time, making the transition from optical viewfinders seamless for new mirrorless shooters.
  • Packed with Power: Powered by the new EN-EL15c battery, the Z 5 offers significant advancements in the number of shots per charge and is the first Nikon camera to enable constant power through the USB port, even with select portable USB power banks[6]. For added power and grip, the camera is also compatible with the MB-N10 hot-swappable battery pack.
  • Webcam Ready: When connected via the USB-C cord, the Z 5 can be used as a webcam, making the camera a great option for modern vloggers, influencers and gamers looking to improve their livestreaming capabilities.

NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3: Portable, Yet Powerful
The NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is the latest addition to the rapidly expanding lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses and is the smallest FX-format NIKKOR Z lens yet. Optically designed to take advantage of the advancements of the wide Z mount, this lens delivers sharpness across the entire frame and a versatile zoom range for everyday use. The 24-50mm is less than three inches long when retracted, making it the perfect lens for shooters seeking a versatile yet compact option for lightweight travel and street photography. When used together, the Z 5 and 24-50mm lens are the ideal discrete travel kit that can easily be packed and carried for all-day adventures. This compact NIKKOR Z lens is also an enticing option for Z 6 and Z 7 users who want a small all-around lens for portraits, landscapes, and street photography.

New Z Teleconverters Take NIKKOR Z Lenses to New Lengths
Designed for photographers and videographers who need more telephoto reach in their kit, the new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X bring added versatility with 1.4x and 2.0x magnification to select NIKKOR Z lenses. These lightweight teleconverters are great tools for those photographing sports, wildlife and aviation, reducing the need to crop images and allowing for tighter compositions with maximum resolution.

The new TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X teleconverters maintain superior rendering performance and minimize various lens aberrations, while retaining focusing speed, VR functionality and minimum focusing distance. As an added benefit, the new teleconverters allow Nikon Z series cameras to retain functionality on all focus points up to f/11, making it easy to focus on and track subjects throughout the entire frame. Featuring the same robust construction as NIKKOR Z lenses, the teleconverters are designed with a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements to resist dirt and smudges, and offer a durable, weather-sealed body to protect against the elements.

When the teleconverters are used with the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S (availability scheduled for late August), the focal length on the telephoto end is extended to 280mm (1.4x) or 400mm (2.0x) producing a significant expansion of this telephoto lens’ shooting range. These new teleconverters will also be compatible with applicable interchangeable lenses for Nikon Z mount mirrorless cameras that Nikon will release in the future.

New Webcam Utility Software for Nikon Cameras
In August, Nikon will release a beta version of the Webcam Utility software for many Nikon DSLR and Z series mirrorless cameras, including the new Z 5. Initially available for Windows 10, the free software will allow compatible Nikon cameras to be used as webcams. When connected via USB, this free software will provide users with incredible sharpness, clarity and flattering depth of field for all of their livestreaming needs including teleconferencing and gaming.

For more information on how to use your Nikon camera as a webcam, please visit https://www.nikonusa.com/en/learn-and-explore/live-streaming-with-nikon-cameras.page

Pricing and Availability
The Nikon Z 5 will be available in August in several configurations, including body-only for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 1,399.95*, a one-lens kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 for an SRP of $ 1,699.95* and a one-lens kit with the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens for an SRP of $ 2,199.95* for those seeking extra reach when photographing wildlife or travel adventures. Also available in August, the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens can be purchased separately for an SRP of $ 399.95*. The new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X will have an SRP of $ 549.95 and $ 599.95 respectively and will be available in late August.

For more information on the latest Nikon products, including the new Z 5 and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens, as well as the full Nikon Z mount system, please visit?www.nikonusa.com.

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

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

1. With recording of still images using the FX-format image area and single-point AF. 231 focus points with movie recording.

2. When using this mode, the frame is cropped approx. ×1.7.

3. Using the SnapBridge App System Requirements:

a. Android 5.0 or later or 6.0.1 or later
b. A device with Bluetooth 4.0 or later (i.e., a device that supports Bluetooth Smart Ready/Low Energy) is required.
c. The SnapBridge app is available for compatible iPhone®, iPad® and/or iPod touch®, and for smart devices running the AndroidTM operating system. The app can be downloaded free of charge from Apple’s App Store® and GooglePlayTM. SnapBridge can be used only with compatible cameras.

4. This camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® capability can only be used with a compatible iPhone®, iPad®, and/or iPod touch® or smart devices running on the Android™ operating system. The Nikon SnapBridge application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera.

5. The camera’s built-in Bluetooth® capability can only be used to connect the camera to a compatible smart device running the SnapBridge app, and to take advantage of SnapBridge features.

6. Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD 45W is the recommended portable charger. Use a USB cable with two Type-C connectors supplied with the portable charger. For more information about the portable charger, please visit the manufacturer’s website: Anker.com/support

Nikon Nikkor Z 24-50mm F4-6.3 specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 24–50 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Nikon Z
Aperture
Maximum aperture F4–6.3
Minimum aperture F22–36
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Optics
Elements 11
Groups 10
Special elements / coatings 2 ED + 3 aspherical elements, Super Integrated Coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.35 m (13.78″)
Maximum magnification 0.17×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual No
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Focus distance limiter No
Physical
Weight 195 g (0.43 lb)
Diameter 74 mm (2.91″)
Length 51 mm (2.01″)
Materials Composite
Sealing No
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock No
Filter thread 52 mm

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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O-Film demonstrates smartphone camera module with 85-170mm equivalent optical zoom

17 Jun

The zoom performance of smartphone cameras has improved dramatically in the last couple of years or but still lags behind conventional cameras, despite dedicated tele lenses pretty much being the norm on high-end smartphones these days. It’s fair to say that overall, zooming on a smartphone camera is at this point still a bit of a compromise, but that could soon change, though.

Chinese camera module supplier O-Film has demonstrated a periscope-style smartphone lens that provides an optical zoom range of 85-170mm (35mm equivalent). This, in theory, should provide a more consistent image quality across the zoom range than current models.

Most tele cameras inside flagship smartphones provide magnification factors between 3x and 10x compared to the primary camera, but speaking about ‘zoom’ factors in this context is slightly misleading. In most instances, the tele camera use lenses with a fixed focal length and computational methods are used to deliver the stated zoom ratios.

At intermediate zoom settings between primary and tele cameras most models use digital zoom/cropping and other computational imaging methods that combine image data from both cameras to create an output image. This Samsung system illustrated in the video below is a good example:

In practice, this means that if you want the best possible image quality you will have to shoot at the native focal lengths of either the primary or tele camera. At intermediate settings your images will, at least under close inspection, almost certainly show a loss of detail and/or a range of fusion artifacts. For example, on some models the level of detail at the center of the frame is high because this portion of the image is captured with the tele camera. Often a lack of detail is visible towards the edges, though, as these areas of the frame are ‘filled’ with digitally zoomed image data from the primary camera.

O-Film’s solution should avoid these kind of image quality inconsistencies by providing optical zoom across the entire range of focal length from 85-170mm (35mm equivalent). The module’s aperture ranges from f/3.1 at the wide end to f/5.1 at the maximum tele setting, which is pretty much in line with the apertures on most fixed-focal-length tele cameras. At only 5.9mm the module is also impressively thin which means it should fit into the sleek form factors of most current flagship devices.

The zoom range of the O-Film module is roughly equivalent to a 3-7x zoom factor but the company claims it can also provide 3-5x, 5-8x and 3.5-9.5x variants.

Like other periscope style lenses with a fixed focal length, such as the one found in Oppo’s 5x camera module, the O-Film module uses an optically-stabilized prism to divert incoming light onto the image sensor. What’s different in O-Line’s module is a piezoelectric motor that drives a module with three lens groups to adapt the focal length. The autofocus mechanism moves with the lens elements.

If the new system works as advertised in the near future image quality on smartphones could be much more consistent across the zoom range than it is now, offering greater flexibility to mobile photographers. Unfortunately, there is no word yet on when we might see the zoom in a production smartphone.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Tamron Announces First Mirrorless All-In-One f/2.8 Zoom

15 Jun

The post Tamron Announces First Mirrorless All-In-One f/2.8 Zoom appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

Tamron f/2.8 zoom lens announced

Earlier this week, Tamron announced its brand new 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 lens designed for Sony mirrorless cameras.

In addition to its massive range, the lens boasts a maximum aperture of f/2.8 at its widest focal length, making it officially the first all-in-one zoom lens to begin at f/2.8.

While the lens ultimately tops out at f/5.6 at the 200mm end, the wide-angle f/2.8 maximum aperture offers low-light shooters the opportunity to work with a fast, lightweight, compact zoom, one that also features significant reach on the long end.

In terms of weight and dimensions:

The Tamron 28-200mm clocks in at just 20.3 oz (575 g), while measuring 4.6 in (117 mm). This positions the lens as a comprehensive option for travel photographers, landscape photographers, and more; just slip the Tamron 28-200mm plus a Sony camera in your backpack, and you’ll be ready for anything.

Tamron 28-200mm zoom

Of course, none of this matters if the lens can’t deliver on image quality, and all-in-one zooms are known for their lackluster optics, especially at focal length extremes.

While we can’t definitively comment on sharpness, Tamron promises “liberal use of special lens elements…to greatly suppress chromatic aberrations, making it possible to achieve high image quality from edge to edge.”

Tamron also claims to have “concentrated all its all-in-one zoom technologies into achieving optical performance that sets a new standard among existing all-in-one zoom lenses.”

While we’ll have to wait a few weeks to confirm Tamron’s claims, the company’s other all-in-one zooms have been mediocre-to-great. If Tamron has taken this one a step further, then the rewards could be great.

The new lens also offers:

  • An impressive minimum focusing distance of 7.5 in (0.19 m) on the wide end and 31.5 (0.8m) on the long end, making for a close-up magnification ratio of 1:3.8
  • A fast, quiet AF motor
  • Moisture resistance
  • A reasonable price of US$ 729

Assuming the optics are good, this lens will be a steal for almost any shooter, but especially photographers looking to reduce the size of their kit for travel, outdoors, or walkaround photography.

At the time of writing, the lens will launch on June 25, though Tamron warns of potential COVID-related delays.

So if you’re interested in an all-in-one zoom for Sony with tremendous low-light capabilities, great optical potential, and much more, check out the new Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD.

Now over to you:

What do you think of this new lens from Tamron? Do you expect it will separate itself from other all-in-one zooms in terms of optics? And if so, will you purchase it? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Tamron Announces First Mirrorless All-In-One f/2.8 Zoom appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Tamron announces versatile 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 zoom lens for E-mount

11 Jun

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Tamron has introduced the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD zoom lens for full-frame Sony mirrorless bodies. This compact lens is just 11.7cm (4.6″) long and weighs in at 576g (20.3oz).

It features a total of 18 elements, including glass-molded aspherical, hybrid aspherical, extra low-dispersion (known as XLD) and low-dispersion elements. A ‘BBAR’ coating reduces flare and ghosting. The minimum focus distance is just 19.1cm (7.5″) at wide-angle and 80cm (31.5″) at telephoto.

The 28-200 uses a stepping motor for autofocus (‘RXD’ in Tamron-speak) that the company says keeps focus noise to a minimum, making it ideal for video. It is threaded for 67mm filters. The lens is moisture resistant, and the front element’s fluorine coating helps to repel oil and water.

The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is expected to go on sale in late June for $ 729, though Tamron notes that the ship date is subject to change due to possible supply chain issues related to COVID-19.

Press release:

Tamron Announces Launch of the World’s First[1] All-In-One Zoom Lens Starting at F2.8 for Sony E-Mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (Model A071)

June 10, 2020, Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (Model A071), an all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens is scheduled to be available on June 25 at $ 729. Due to the spread of COVID-19, the release date or the product supply schedule could be delayed.

In 1992, Tamron demonstrated breakthrough innovation with the release of the AF 28-200mm F/3.8-5.6 Aspherical (Model 71D), a compact and lightweight all-in-one zoom lens. The amazingly compact size, light weight and reasonable price made the lens immediately wildly popular with photographers around the world. In the years since, Tamron has continued to be a pioneer in the category, releasing epoch-making all-in-one zooms tailored to each era, including the recent 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD (Model B028) that boasts the world’s highest magnification of 22.2x [2] and which currently enjoys robust sales. The new 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 is a distillation of all Tamron’s accumulated all-in-one zoom expertise and has been specifically developed as an all-in-one zoom for daily use on a full-frame mirrorless camera. Tamron chose Model A071 as the model name in a nod to “71” representing the world’s original compact all-in-one zoom.

The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 is the first all-in-one-zoom in the world [1] to achieve a maximum aperture of F2.8 at the 28mm wide-angle end. To assure superb optical performance, it features a precise arrangement of special lens elements that accommodate the increasingly high resolutions of today’s digital cameras. Enabling high quality image rendering throughout the zoom range, the lens responds to users’ photographic expressions in powerful style. Moreover, with its 4.6” length, 20.3 oz. weight, and filter diameter of a mere 67mm, the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 offers excellent portability. When combined with a compact, lightweight full-frame mirrorless camera, it allows photographers to capture virtually every scene they encounter in daily use, travel, sports and nature.

The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 takes the convenience of an all-in-one zoom (which incorporates various angles of view from wide to telephoto in a single lens) and adds a fast-maximum aperture of F2.8 and superb image quality to enhance the potential for photographic applications. Breaking conventional limitations and broadening the horizons of photographic possibilities, this zoom lens writes a new chapter in the history of the all-in-one zoom lens.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

1. The world’s first F2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras
A remarkable first for an all-in-one zoom lens: the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 achieves a fast F2.8 aperture at the 28mm wide-angle end. Additionally, maximum apertures at intermediate zoom ranges are F3.5 at 50mm, F4.5 at 100mm, and F5.6 at 150mm through 200mm. As an unprecedented all-in-one zoom that combines fast aperture with compact size, the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 delivers greater versatility and usefulness than ever before available.

2. Lightweight and compact size for superior mobility
Tamron’s series of full-frame mirrorless camera lenses, starting with the 28-75mm F2.8 (Model A036), has been developed with the overall goal of balancing high performance with convenience. In addition to the series-standard 67mm filter diameter, and leveraging the camera integrated image stabilization, engineers concentrated on achieving compact size and light weight. Length is just 4.6”, maximum diameter is 74mm, and the weight is a mere 20.3 oz. With a size that offers excellent portability, the lens lightens your load, allowing you to travel comfortably and shoot unencumbered.

3. Uncompromising image quality that lets you focus on creativity
This new zoom lens contains 18 elements in 14 groups. A generous assortment of special lens elements that includes GM (Glass Molded Aspherical), hybrid aspherical, XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements is precisely arranged to effectively control chromatic and other aberrations, enabling high resolving power. Meanwhile, the BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating provides powerful anti-reflection properties to effectively reduce ghosting and flare, resulting in clear and crisp images. In-camera correction features are utilized to mitigate distortion and shading to achieve uniformly high image quality from edge-to-edge at all zoom settings. Tamron has concentrated all its all-in-one zoom technologies into achieving optical performance that sets a new standard among existing all-in-one zoom lenses. From casual snaps to serious photos, this single lens lets you enjoy a wide range of shooting situations with complete freedom of composition.

4. Superior up-close shooting performance
The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 delivers superior close-up shooting performance for an all-in-one zoom. At the 28mm wide-angle end the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) is 7.5”, achieving a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1. This performance, combined with the fast F2.8 aperture, allows users to move in close so that the subject is large while simultaneously showcasing a beautifully blurred background. Close-up shooting is remarkable at the telephoto end as well, with an MOD of 31.5” and maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Users can capture impressive images with highly blurred backgrounds and create exceptional compositions.

5. The RXD stepping motor unit is exceptionally quiet?
The AF drive incorporates a sensor that accurately detects the position of the lens while the RXD motor unit delivers optimized AF control. This achieves very fast and accurate autofocus operation, allowing users to maintain tack-sharp focus on continuously moving subjects or when filming video. The exceedingly quiet operation is an important advantage because it virtually eliminates extraneous sounds during video recording. In addition, the compact configuration of the RXD AF drive system contributes to the unprecedented size and weight reduction.

6. A full family of superb, compact lenses made especially for mirrorless cameras
The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 zoom is based on Tamron’s stratagem of creating a series* of lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras that leverage the characteristics of compact camera bodies. Consequently, photographers can more easily enjoy various combinations of interchangeable lenses. For example, when the Model A071 is combined with the 17-28mm F2.8 (Model A046), the combined weight of the two lenses is less than 35.1 oz. This lightweight, portable zoom set covers everything from wide-angle to telephoto with a zoom range of 17-200mm. Additionally, when combined with a lens from Tamron’s series of fixed focal lenses such as the 20mm F2.8 (Model F050) or 24mm F2.8 (Model F051), the weight is less than 28.2 oz., expanding the possibilities of shooting at the wide-angle end without adding excessive weight or bulk.

All lenses in the series share the common filter diameter of 67mm, thereby eliminating the hassle associated with using different size filters and lens caps. Costly filters (e.g., PL, ND, etc.) can be shared instead of buying separate units for each lens. In this way, Tamron has expanded its series of lenses to make it truly practical to carry multiple lenses at the same time.

7. Moisture-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating, and Zoom Lock switch
Seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to deter infiltration of moisture and/or rain drops and afford Moisture-Resistant Construction. This feature provides an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions. Also, the front surface of the lens element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that has excellent water- and oil-repellant qualities. The lens surface is easier to wipe clean and is less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, moisture or oily fingerprints, allowing for much easier maintenance. Additionally, the handy Zoom Lock switch prevents unwanted barrel extension during transportation.

8. Compatible with main camera-specific features* and functions

Tamron’s new 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 is compatible with many of the advanced features that are specific to certain mirrorless cameras. These include the following:
– Fast Hybrid AF
– Eye AF
– Direct Manual Focus (DMF)
– In-camera lens correction (shading, chromatic aberration, distortion)
– Camera-based lens unit firmware updates

1) Maximum aperture in zoom range among currently available all-in-one interchangeable zoom lenses with a zoom ratio of 7x or higher (As of May 2020: Tamron)
2) Among interchangeable lenses for DSLR cameras (As of May 2017: Tamron)

* Tamron lineup of lenses with 67mm filter diameter for full-frame mirrorless cameras: 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A036), 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A046), 20mm/24mm/35mm F/2.8 Di III OSD (Model F050/F051/F053), 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056)

Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 28–200 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8–5.6
Minimum aperture F16–32
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Optics
Elements 18
Groups 14
Special elements / coatings Aspherical, hybrid aspherical, extra-low dispersion, low-dispersion elements + BBAR coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.19 m (7.48″)
Maximum magnification 0.32×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 576 g (1.27 lb)
Diameter 74 mm (2.91″)
Length 117 mm (4.61″)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Zoom lock Yes
Filter thread 67 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Tamron teases new zoom lens for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras

29 May

Tamron already has six full-frame Sony E-mount lenses in its lineup, but there’s another on the way. In a video shared on its YouTube channel earlier today, Tamron teased a new full-frame E-mount lens that appears to be a mid-range zoom lens.

The 18-second clip, embedded below, doesn’t divulge any additional details about the lens, but it does link to Tamron’s E-mount lens lineup page that shows how the forthcoming lens will stack up in size compared to the six current full-frame E-mount lenses — three primes and three zooms.

You can also see in the lineup photo the new lens will have what appears to be a focus locking switch sandwiched between the focus and zoom rings. Tamron’s 70–180mm F2.8 Di III VXD lens is the only current full-frame E-mount lens in the lineup to offer this switch.

We’ll keep you up to date, but you can also keep an eye on Tamron’s website for more information. There’s also Tamron Japan’s website, which sometimes posts press releases ahead of the U.S. site.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: Turn almost any mirrorless or DSLR camera into a high-end Zoom webcam on macOS

13 May

Fuji X-Photographer Kim Farrelly recently published a video explaining how to use a mirrorless or DSLR camera as a webcam with Zoom without using a capture card. The tutorial is only applicable to macOS, enabling photographers who are now working from home to utilize the camera hardware they already own rather than having to purchase a standalone webcam, which are increasingly hard to find.

Though the tutorial may seem a bit intimidating to users who are less tech-savvy, it’s fairly simple. Firstly, users are advised to check whether their camera supports tethering and live view, something that can be done on the Capture One website.

Assuming the camera does support these functions, the user must first download Zoom followed by XCODE from Apple onto their computer using the following command in the Terminal application:

  • xcode-select –install

After Xcode is installed, use the following command in terminal to open up access to use external cameras with Zoom:

  • sudo codesign –remove-signature /Applications/zoom.us.app/

The path in the second line of code must be the same as the path where Zoom is installed on the Mac. By installing Xcode and executing these two lines of code, Farrelly explains that Zoom will be able to use external webcams — or, in this case, a mirrorless or DSLR camera.

The process requires two additional applications called Camera Live and CamTwist, in that order, as well as a USB cable for tethering the camera to the computer. Farrelly explains that Camera Live version 13 works “100%” with his Fuji X-T2, but it’s unclear whether this version is needed for every camera model.

Farrelly walks viewers through this entire process, including some notes and links in the video’s description on the processes that will ‘piggyback’ each application so that the camera can ultimately be used as a webcam for Zoom video calls. Viewers who experimented with the process also dropped some additional tips, such as adding a zoom effect in CamTwist in order to remove the black bars from the video feed.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Wet plate photographer shoots portrait of subject 4000 miles away via Zoom

08 Apr

Life is difficult when you are a portrait photographer and social distancing restrictions prevent face-to-face meetings with anyone beyond the people you live with. Not one to let a global virus pandemic get in the way of a good picture, Shane Balkowitsch combined modern and ancient technology to create a wet-plate photograph of a friend who was almost 4000 miles away using video-conferencing application Zoom. From his studio in Bismarck, North Dakota, Shane photographed Morgan Barbour in London, England, as she streamed video of herself to his computer screen – which he photographed using a 10x8in large format camera with a wet collodion plate loaded in the back.

Morgan in the Zoom video conference on Shane’s screen

Shane tells DPReview that the idea came about when Morgan asked him to make a wet plate image of her. He was going to copy a previous print he had made of her, but having just been introduced to video conferencing the week before it occurred to him that he could make the picture ‘live’ using the computer screen. He sent instructions to Morgan about how she could set up the lighting in her house to create a silhouette and they had a conference call to make the shot.

‘I’d never shot this way before’ Shane explained ‘and I didn’t know what to expect, so I decided that instead of trying to capture a “well lit” portrait we could go for a silhouette. It would take us back to when photography was first invented and the very simple, honest photographs of 180 years ago when photographers were just trying to get any proof of the photograph.’

‘The two plates we made are rather lovely in their simplicity and mood. Our first attempt, which is now known as “A Distance Exposure In Isolation”, is the better of the two. The light reflecting off her upper body adds just the right degree of femininity for me.

Shane tells us that he would usually expect an exposure of ten seconds for his wet plate portraits but this one needed Morgan to remain still while he counted down a full minute.
‘I wasn’t sure how the image on the screen would come out, or if it would come out at all. The wet plate process relies on ultraviolet light to make the exposure, and I didn’t know whether there would be some sort of UV filter on the monitor to protect users’ eyes. Fortunately, however, that turned out not to be the case. It still needed six times the usual exposure to activate the silver on the plate though, and that was for a backlit silhouette. If I’d wanted to get detail in her face I’d probably need two to three minutes.’

Shane says he is stunned by the mixture of technologies that exist 170 years apart, and how the light traveled from Hampstead in London to his Bismarck studio 3961 miles away. ‘There’s no truth in the light I recorded!’ he exclaims. ‘It has been transfigured and translated so many times. It passed through the background in Morgan’s house to reach her phone, where it was converted into zeros and ones to travel across the globe via the internet before reaching my screen. Here it was turned back into light again before passing through my lens and on to the plate. It’s amazing.’

The final image – note the cursor in the top left corner. A sure clue to the mix of technologies

To avoid capturing the texture of the screen Shane says he focused on the outline of Morgan’s lips and nose, and then pulled the focus back a little to blur the pixels of the screen and to create a softer feel to the picture. ‘I didn’t know if I’d get reflections off the screen too, but they don’t seem to show in the picture. There was an odd mark on the plate that I noticed as the image developed. I didn’t know what it was at first, but when I came to remove it I realized it is the arrow cursor from my computer left in the picture area by mistake. Kinda funny!’

Shane’s darkroom, where he sensitizes and develops his plates

Shane will have the chance to practice the process once again this Friday as a model from New York has contacted him since seeing the pictures of Morgan to have her portrait taken. ‘We’ll see what we can come up with. We just got off the phone together, we have never met but she has wanted to have her portrait taken by me for some time.’
Shane says ‘If we ask ourselves, “why would you even attempt this?” the answer is simple – out of necessity. I am usually booked 7-8 months ahead for my Friday sessions in my natural light wet plate studio, but right now I’m having to cancel all those sittings. Now I can shoot remotely. Take that Coronavirus! You think you can stop us from creating? I think not.’

Self-portrait with one of his wet plate cameras

Below you can see the video of the conference call during which Shane made the picture, which also shows the process of sensitising the plate and developing it after the exposure. You can see more of Shane’s wet plate work on Instagram and on his website.

Shane may be the first to shoot a wet plate image directly from a live subject on computer screen, but Robert Matheson used a similar process to record portraits from a live image projected onto a wet plate during the interview below.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Huawei launches P40 series with Leica-badged cameras and up to 10x optical zoom

27 Mar

Chinese manufacturer Huawei has today launched the latest generation of its camera-centric high-end P-series. The P40, P40 Pro and P40 Pro+ share the Kirin 990 5G chipset and the large 1/1.28-inch image sensor in the main camera but otherwise differ slightly in a range of areas.

The Huawei P40 Pro+

Large main camera sensor

Like for previous Huawei high-end phones, the camera assembly of the P40 series has been developed in cooperation with German camera makers Leica. The P40 offers a triple-camera setup with ultra-wide and conventional 3x tele cameras.

The P40 Pro camera cluster

The P40 Pro features the same main camera with 50MP Quad-Bayer sensor, OIS and fast F1.9 aperture lens, but adds a more powerful ultra-wide with a 1/1.54″ 40MP sensor and a periscope style tele-camera that offers 5x optical magnification and, in combination with super-resolution algorithms, a maximum zoom factor of 50. A time-of-flight (ToF) sensor for depth-sensing in bokeh mode and improved autofocus performance is on board as well.

10x optical zoom on the P40 Pro+

The P40 Pro+ tops the Pro version by replacing the 5x tele with not one but two tele lenses: similar to the Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro a 3x conventional tele is used for closer distances. If you want to zoom in further a 10x optical periscope-style variant that supports up to 100x digital zoom takes over. The 10x lens reflects light five times to achieve its long focal length. AI algorithms use data from the ultra-wide camera and zoom lenses to optimize still image and video stabilization.

The main camera sensor in all three models is Huawei’s largest smartphone image sensor to date and uses pixel binning for increased dynamic range and low light performance. The new Octa PD AutoFocus offers focus capability on all pixels and the HUAWEI XD Fusion Engine is combining image data form all sensors to smoothen zoom operation and achieve optimized image quality at intermediate zoom settings.

Color temperature sensor

In addition the camera features a new multi-spectrum color temperature sensor and AI-powered white balance algorithms which, according to Huawei, improve color accuracy by 45 percent. AI methods are also deployed to optimize portrait skin tones and textures.

New camera software features include a function that chooses the frames from a Moving Picture and AI Remove Passersby and AI Remove Reflection which can eliminate unwanted subjects and glare in your images respectively.

Ultra-wide video with real-time bokeh

Bu default the P40 Pro and P40 Pro+ use their ultra-wide cameras for video shooting. The 18mm focal length should be ideal for cinematic shots and the large 1/1.54-inch sensor offers a 3:2 aspect ratio. Fusion Technology supports 16-in-1 pixel binning in video mode which enables shooting at up to ISO51200 with a wide dynamic range and 7680fps ultra slow-motion video capture.

Video mode also supports real-time bokeh effects and zooming using the tele camera. In addition, the camera is capable of producing 4K timelapses and directional audio zoom lets you focus the microphones on a specific subject in a scene.

Plenty of power and apps from Huawei’s AppGallery

All new models are powered by Huawei’s latest top-end chipset Kirin 990 5G which features 5G band support and 160MHz Wi-Fi 6 Plus technology with 2,400Mbps peak theoretical transmission speed. The Pro+ also comes with 40W wireless charging.

Like last year’s Mate 30 series, the P40 models do not come with Google apps, such as Gmail, Maps or the Play Store. Instead, apps can be downloaded from Huawei’s own AppGallery. The company says the gallery is working with global developers to expand the app selection on offer but for now, many users will see the lack of Google app as a major drawback.

Premium design and 90Hz OLED display

All the high-end tech is wrapped up in glass-covered bodies on the P40 and P40 Pro. The Pro+ comes with a nano-tech ceramic back panel for an even more premium look and feel. The Pro and Pro+ models also come with a curved edge 90Hz FullHD+ OLED display that features extremely thin bezels and an in-screen fingerprint reader.

P40 colors

Pricing and availability:

Owning a P40 series model won’t come at a bargain price. The basic P40 with 6GM RAM and 128GB of built-in memory will set you back 799 Euros (approximately $ 880). The P40 Pro with 8GB of RAM and 256GB built-in storage is 999 Euros (approximately $ 1100) and the top-end P40 Pro+ with 8GB/256GB is a hefty 1399 Euros (approximately $ 1540). Bigger-storage variants are available for each model but Huawei has not released pricing information for those yet. Currently, no further information on geographical availability has been provided either.

Press Release:

HUAWEI P40 Series Marks the Age of Visionary Photography

Housing Huawei’s largest CMOS sensor yet, the HUAWEI P40 Series delivers all-day Super Definition photography with powerful cameras, high performance 5G and cutting-edge design

26 March 2020 – Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG) today announced the HUAWEI P40 Pro+, HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40, the new HUAWEI P40 Series flagship smartphones featuring cutting-edge designs with ground-breaking camera innovations that radically expand mobile photography and video capture possibilities.

The HUAWEI P40 Series continues the series’ heritage of imaging excellence. The large 1/1.28-inch sensor has a binned pixel size measuring 2.44?m to massively boost light intake for enhanced low-light performance, while a new periscope design realises 10x true optical zoom. The HUAWEI P40 Series is powered by Kirin 990 5G and supports high-speed 5G and Wi-Fi 6 Plus. The advanced hardware is embedded in a beautiful and compact enclosure featuring the HUAWEI Quad-curve Overflow Display that delivers outstanding fluidity and responsiveness.

Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer BG, “The HUAWEI P Series has always been about innovative aesthetics and making premium imaging hardware accessible, representing the very best of industrial design and technology. With an outstanding sensor, camera systems that we co-engineered with Leica, powerful chipset and HUAWEI XD Fusion Engine, the HUAWEI P40 Series exemplifies our focus and offers an all-day Super Definition experience to help consumers realise their creative vision.”

Unprecedented design

The HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+ are equipped with the HUAWEI Quad-curve Overflow Display. Inspired by the art of motion, the display takes on a curved edge on all four sides, creating a shape that is reminiscent of water on the cusp of overflowing from the rim of a filled cup. The super narrow bezels and streamlined round corners ensure an ergonomic hold and a near borderless look, while an enhanced in-screen fingerprint reader offers 30 percent faster biometric authentication.

Available in three glossy glass finishes – Ice White, Deep Sea Blue and Black – and two innovative refractive matte glass finishes – Blush Gold and Silver Frost, the HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 exude classical elegance from every angle. HUAWEI P40 Pro+ features an exquisite nano-tech ceramic back panel that is kilned and polished to ensure it stands the test of time with incredible durability and timeless style. This unique design comes in two iconic colours: Ceramic White and Ceramic Black.

All-day Super Definition photography

Embedded in the HUAWEI P40 Series is the advanced Ultra Vision Leica camera system, available in triple-camera, quad-camera and penta-camera configurations. The HUAWEI P40 delivers outstanding photographic results with ultra wide-angle, wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The HUAWEI P40 Pro features an evolution of the Leica Quad Camera with a more powerful Ultra Wide Cine Camera and ToF Camera alongside 50x SuperSensing Zoom. The HUAWEI P40 Pro+ lets consumers see the unprecedented with the SuperZoom Array, which supports 10x true optical zoom and 100x maximum digital zoom.

The HUAWEI Ultra Vision Sensor included in the full HUAWEI P40 Series is Huawei’s largest CMOS sensor to date. Measuring 1/1.28 inches diagonally, it supports pixel binning to achieve a pixel size of 2.44?m and Full Pixel Octa PD AutoFocus for high-speed focus at any time of day, while the HUAWEI XD Fusion Engine integrates and processes data from multiple cameras to generate a comprehensive improvement in picture quality.

HUAWEI P40 Pro brings faraway subjects up close with 5x optical zoom, 10x hybrid zoom and 50x maximum digital zoom. For the first time ever, the 5x Optical Telephoto Camera in the HUAWEI P40 Pro includes a RYYB colour filter array to boost light intake and improve quality of zoomed shots. HUAWEI P40 Pro+ has a 100x SuperZoom Array with a new periscope design that reflects light five times, extending the light path by 178 percent to support 10x true optical zoom. The optically stabilised Ultra Vision Wide Camera and SuperZoom Array work in tandem with AI to realise Triple OIS+AIS for vastly improved photo and video stabilisation.

Skin tone and texture are faithfully reproduced by a new Multi-spectrum Colour Temperature Sensor and AI AWB algorithm that boost colour accuracy by 45 percent. Deep learning algorithms provide real-time portrait optimisations that enhance lighting and detail. HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+ have a 32MP AF Camera and IR Depth Camera that support autofocus and Bokeh reproduction to deliver the same outstanding portrait effects that are signature to Huawei devices, as well as IR Face Unlock for device unlock even in low light conditions. HUAWEI P40 Series also introduces HUAWEI Golden Snap, which includes AI Best Moment, a new smart photography feature that chooses the best frames from a Moving Picture. AI Remove Passersby and AI Remove Reflection can do away with unwanted subjects and glare from the frame, allowing users to easily enhance their images after the fact.

A powerful pocket-sized video camera

The 40MP Ultra Wide Cine Camera in HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+ has a focal length that is equivalent to 18mm and a 1/1.54-inch sensor supporting the 3:2 aspect ratio. SedecimPixel Fusion Technology is built into this camera to support 16-in-1 pixel binning, producing super pixels that measure 4.48?m to boost light sensitivity up to ISO51200 and enable 7680fps Ultra Slow-Motion video capture.

HUAWEI P40 Series supports real-time Bokeh effects for videos. Similar to the results of a wide aperture lens, this feature adds progressive Bokeh to help highlight the main subject of the footage. The telephoto camera can capture high quality zoom footage as well as 4K time-lapse videos. Directional Audio Zoom, available on HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+, allows users to zoom in on an audio source and amplify its sound at the same time.

An all-connected 5G powerhouse

The HUAWEI P40 Series is powered by Kirin 990 5G to deliver integrated 5G connectivity with the most comprehensive 5G band support, robust AI performance and power efficiency. Display responsiveness and gaming experience are taken to the next level by the upgraded graphics rendering engine making the most of the 90Hz panel on the HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+. The 160MHz Wi-Fi 6 Plus technology featured in the full line-up offers high-speed connectivity with support for 2,400Mbps peak theoretical transmission speed. The industry-leading 40W Wireless HUAWEI SuperCharge is available on the HUAWEI P40 Pro+ for fast and convenient charging. The chipset is given the thermal headroom to deliver exceptional performance by the advanced cooling systems, including the bespoke 4-in-1 SuperCool system in the HUAWEI P40 Pro+.

The EMUI 10.1 operating system introduces a host of new features that enable a richer, more seamless AI life. HUAWEI MeeTime[1] supports 1080p Full HD video call on Huawei smartphones, tablets and the HUAWEI Vision TV and delivers clear picture quality even in low light or weak signal conditions. Users can also share their phone screen with the other party during the video call and mark-up notes to quickly share thoughts.

Huawei Share facilitates high-speed file transfer between the smartphone and other devices such as tablets and PCs. With Huawei Share on the HUAWEI P40 Series, consumers can stream music to a smart speaker, initiate screen projection and connect to Wi-Fi by tapping the device[2] they want to connect to with their phone. New functionality added to the Multi-screen Collaboration allows users to easily answer video or voice calls hands-free directly through the PC, and open files and hyperlinks on the smartphone with native PC applications for enhanced productivity.

Working in close collaboration with global developers, Huawei offers a wide range of global and local apps on AppGallery, Huawei’s official app marketplace. Users can also enjoy a rich library of quality entertainment media on HUAWEI Video, HUAWEI Music and HUAWEI Reader, with new additions from top content providers being added on a continuous basis.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Samsung announces S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra smartphones offering up to 108 megapixels, 100X zoom and 8K video

12 Feb

Samsung took the stage at its Galaxy Unpacked 2020 event to unveil its latest Galaxy smartphone lineup, which includes the Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra. The new S20 range offers some pretty incredible pixel-counts, topping out at an eye-popping 108MP, plus 8K video. Meanwhile, you can probably guess at the defining feature of the ‘Galaxy Z Flip’.

Let’s talk about the headline features up front:

  • 1/1.33″ main camera sensor (S20 Ultra)
  • 108MP capture (S20 Ultra)
  • ‘Lossless’ digital zoom thanks to high resolution sensors
  • 100x zoom thanks to 4x optical zoom, 48MP sensor and super-resolution (S20 Ultra)
  • 120Hz refresh rate displays
  • 240Hz touch input for responsive touch interface
  • Capture all camera zooms and modes with one shutter press, choose later

Let’s start by talking about the new S20 lineup.

Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra

Samsung’s S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra smartphones all vary in size and specifications, with increasing screen sizes and capabilities, respectively.

Before diving into the differences though, let’s take a look at what all of the devices share. The first thing you’ll notice is the familiar design, with the S20 lineup constructed of glass on the front and back with an aluminum alloy metal band around the edges. Aside from a slight bump up in weight and height compared to the S10 lineup, the only major visual difference from the device’s respective predecessors is a new camera bump that’s now rectangular in design.

Each of the new devices features a 120Hz OLED display, currently putting them at the front of the pack in terms of refresh rates (for OLEDs, at least). The S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra all have the same resolution (3200×1440 pixels), but the screen sizes across the devices do differ: 6.2-inches, 6.7-inches and 6.92-inches, respectively.

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Moving onto the cameras, the S20 devices drop the dual-front-facing camera the S10 series had and opts for a single 10-megapixel camera on the S20 and S20+, while the S20 Ultra gets a ridiculous 40-megapixel front-facing camera. On the back of the devices, you’ll notice each model features increasingly-larger camera units, with more modules available on the larger models. The S20 has a 12-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide, and a 64-megapixel 3x telephoto camera.

Below is a video breakdown from Android Central showing how the new camera systems work on the S20 lineup:

The S20+ has all of those cameras as well as a time-of-flight (ToF) camera for depth data. As you might expect, the S20 Ultra takes the entire setup to a whole other level; it offers a 108-megapixel main camera with a whopping 1/1.33″ sensor, the second largest sensor size we’ve ever seen in a phone (right behind the 1/1.2″ sensor in the well-respected Nokia 808 41MP camera). The extra pixels allow for ‘lossless’ digital zoom, which is further aided using super-resolution techniques. Also on-board: a 12-megapixel ultra-wide, and a 48-megapixel 4x telephoto (with 10x ‘lossless’ digital zoom and 100x ‘Space Zoom’ thanks to a unique combination of optical and digital zoom and super-resolution), as well as a ToF camera. All of the phones feature 8K video recording.

The S20 models are all IP68 water-resistant, include wireless charging and feature an in-screen ultrasonic fingerprint reader. Oh, and the headphone jack is gone.

The S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra are set to ship in the United States for $ 1000, $ 1,200 and $ 1,400, respectively.

Galaxy Z Flip

The Galaxy Z Flip is a second-generation folding phone from Samsung. Unlike the Galaxy Fold, which opened up side-to-side like a book, the Galaxy Z Flip opens up vertically, similar to clamshell-style phones of yesteryear.

However, instead of a keyboard at the bottom and a screen at the top as was standard nearly a decade ago, the Galaxy Z Flip features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, which folds along the hinge of the phone. What’s interesting is that instead of the plastic being used for the screen, Samsung is instead using an ultra-thin glass—this should help to make the screen much more durable than its predecessor, which quickly gained a bad reputation for scratching easily.

The outside of the device also features a 1.06-inch secondary display that can display the current time, show the battery status, show notifications and even be used as a screen for taking selfies using the exterior camera.

Beneath the screen is an array of components that, as noted by Android Authority, are almost identical to those found inside the Galaxy S10e. Specifically, the phoen is powered by a Snapdragon 855 Plus SoC, 8GB of RAM, 256GB UFS 3.0 storage and a 3,300mAh battery (2,000mAh more than the S10e).

The pair of cameras on the rear of the device include a standard 12-megapixel camera and an ultra-wide 12-megapixel camera, while the front-facing selfie camera is 10-megapixels. The device also features 15W wired charging, 9W wireless charging and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.

The Galaxy Z Flip will be available in Mirror Purple, Mirror Black and Mirror Gold (in select countries) starting February 14, 2020 for $ 1,380.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Yuneec launches E30Z 30x optical zoom camera for H520 Hexacopter drone

04 Feb

Drone company Yuneec has launched its new E30Z 30x optical zoom camera for the H520 Hexacopter drone. The camera features a 2.13MP 1/2.8in CMOS sensor capable of capturing 1920 x 1080 video at up to 60fps, as well as JPEG still images. The model features 1/30 – 1/6000s shutter speeds, 100 – 6400 ISO, 30x optical zoom, 6x digital zoom, pan/tilt support and both auto and manual white balance controls.

According to Yuneec, users can fully zoom the E30Z camera in 2.55 seconds. Drone operators get access to the camera’s various settings directly through the ST16S controller’s touch display. As the images show, the E30Z camera features a built-in 3-axis gimbal with 360° rotation support and accuracy of ± 0.02°.

The E30Z is one of the multiple camera models that can be used with the H520 Hexacopter drone, which Yuneec says it built for professionals and industrial purposes. The drone features six rotors that the company says are able to keep the drone stable even in high-wind environments.

The E30Z 30x optical zoom drone camera isn’t yet listed in the Yuneec online store; its price and availability remain unclear. The H20 Hexacopter, meanwhile, is available from Yuneec now in multiple bundle options starting at $ 3,999.99.

Via: Newsshooter

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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