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Fujifilm pushes out firmware updates for its X-Pro3 and X-T3 mirrorless cameras

30 Jan

Fujifilm has released firmware updates for its X-T3 and X-Pro3 mirrorless camera systems. The X-Pro3 update is rather minor, while the X-T3 update brings a number of substantially improved features.

Firmware version 1.03 for the X-Pro3 fixes an issue wherein the camera could ‘in rare cases’ freeze without warning as well as addresses a problem where ‘the color tone of recorded images is not recorded correctly in AF-C mode and continuous shooting.’ Aside from that, no other details are mentioned in the changelog. You can download the firmware version 1.03 for the X-Pro3 from Fujifilm’s website.

Moving onto the X-T3, firmware version 3.20 improves the autofocus capabilities. Specifically, Fujifilm says it improves tracking performance with eye AF, improves face-detection performance when there are different-sized faces in the same frame, and improves autofocus on foreground subjects. ‘even when there is a mixture of foreground and background subjects within a AF frame.’

Other updates in firmware version 3.20 include the ability to save up to 9,999 images in each folder (a dramatic increase from the current 999 image limit) and fixes for issues with movie autofocus, including ‘focus hunting at the minimum aperture’ and an issue that sometimes caused a black line to appear at the bottom of the frame. Other smaller bug fixes have been addressed as well.

You can find out more information about firmware version 3.20 for the X-T3 and download it on Fujifilm’s website.

Fujifilm has also updated its Camera Remote app for Android and iOS. The update adds support for Apple and Google’s latest operating systems, iOS 13 and Android 10, respectively. You can download Fujifilm Camera Remote in the Google Play Store and iOS App Store for free.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Xiaomi VP says under-display front camera tech is not ready yet

30 Jan

Over the last year or so we have seen some smartphone manufacturers, including Xiaomi and Oppo, experimenting with under-display front cameras. The technology could allow for the design of displays without a ‘notch’ or front camera ‘punch hole’ but also means that incoming light has to first travel through the display before it hits the camera lens.

The latter is a major challenges to overcome and a reason why, according to Xiaomi VP Lu Weibing, we should not expect the technology to arrive any time soon in a production device.

Currently the pixel-dense displays of modern smartphones block too much of the incoming light. Combined with the small image sensors deployed in most front cameras this means the imaging module’s light gathering capabilities are much more limited than on a more conventional camera, resulting in sub-par image quality.

Researchers and engineers are looking to develop technologies that allow for a combination of high pixel density and good light transmittance but are not quite there yet. Until the problem is solved there probably aren’t too many consumers willing to sacrifice front camera image quality for a more streamlined device design which is we’ll likely have to wait a little longer for the technology to make it into mass production.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New UK bill would enable police to stop, search and seize drones

30 Jan

The United Kingdom is cracking down on the unsafe and potentially illegal use of drones via the new Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Bill, which went before the UK’s Parliament for a second reading on January 27. According to an announcement from Parliament, this bill would give UK Police the power to order a drone to land, inspect it and, when applicable, seize it.

This new bill would grant the UK police a variety of new powers, including the option to stop and search drones being operated around airports and prisons, both sensitive locations where drones can be used for everything from drug smuggling to wreaking havoc on society.

As part of an amendment to the Police Act 1997, UK Police forces, as well as ‘senior prison authorities,’ will be granted the powers to use counter-drone measures in cases where drones are being used illegally. As well, this bill would make it possible for police to fine drone operators ‘on the spot’ if they commit certain offenses, including failure to prove that they have the right permissions or exemptions that authorize them to violate any rules they’re caught breaking (flying too close to a particular building, for example).

The UK government stresses that this bill would only impact drone operators who are illegally flying UAVs and who are putting other people at risk. Photographers are specifically mentioned as one of the groups of people who will still be able to operate drones, assuming they follow all of the local laws and regulations, of course.

The full bill, as well as minutes of the proceedings, can be found on Parliament’s website.

Via: DroneDJ

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon D780 initial sample gallery

29 Jan

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We’ve been putting the new Nikon D780 to the test in places close to home and not so close – here in the snowy/rainy streets of Seattle, out at a professional rugby match and far away in the sun-drenched streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Have a look, and check back soon as we’ll be updating this gallery with conversions when we get Raw support.

See our Nikon D780 sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The Jollylook Mini Auto is an updated Instax Mini camera with auto exposure and more

29 Jan

Three years after launching its first Jollylook Instant Camera, the company is back at it with a new and improved version.

The new version is called the Jollylook Mini Auto. As its name suggests, this updated version features automatic exposure, a built-in flash and an adjustable aperture (F16, F22, F32, F45, F64 and pinhole). Other improvements include the addition of a multiple exposure option, as well as the inclusion of a polarizing filter.

The camera and flash are powered by a rechargeable (microUSB) lithium-ion battery that’s rated for up to 80 images when the flash is used at 50%). Using an onboard light sensor, the shutter speed is automatically set with a range between 1/200 of a second to 60 seconds, as well as a bulb setting.

The camera is constructed of a new laminated fiberboard and the optics are constructed of acrylic. The Fujifilm Instax Mini film it uses is ejected through a manual crank mechanism.

Admittedly, Jollylook’s first Kickstarter proved underwhelming, with slow delivery and subpar build quality, based on the initial reviews. So, even more so than usual, we urge you to be cautious about funding this project. Still though, it’s a neat little device that might well be worth a little fun after its initial crowdfunding campaign ends and it’s available to the general public.

A few sample photos taken with the camera.

If you’re feeling brave though, head on over to the Kickstarter campaign to find out more information and to secure your pledge. The ‘Super Early Bird’ pledge will secure you a Jollylook Mini Auto for $ 79. The first units are expected to ship out November 2020, if all goes to plan.

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

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Filmic’s Double Take iOS app records with two cameras at the same time

29 Jan

Under iOS 13 more recent Apple iPhones are capable of simultaneously recording video with several cameras. This feature was first demonstrated by the people behind the popular Filmic Pro video app at the iPhone 11 launch event.

Now Filmic Pro has made multi-camera recording available in an app, but it’s not Filmic Pro. Instead, the company has created a new stand-alone app called Double Take.

Double Take is a simpler app than Filmic Pro, aimed at users who don’t want to fight their way through a jungle of options. Filmic calls it a tool for everything from ‘professional broadcast-style news interviews to YouTubers capturing multiple angles during live events.’ Still, it comes with a variety of shooting modes that allow you to shoot either with front and rear cam at the same time or shoot with two different focal lengths on the rear cam (iPhone 11 Pro Max, 11 Pro and 11 only).

In Shot/Reverse Shot mode you can record two full size 1080p clips with the front and rear cameras. This will create A/B tracks that you can switch between in editing. This mode is useful for capturing the interaction between two actors or an interviewer and their subject, for example.

In Varied Rear Lenses mode you can record with any two available rear cameras at the same time and create a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) view. The PiP can be moved around inside the main video and its size is adjustable.

Splitscreen Composite Mode lets you record side-by-side footage using any two cameras. The final output footage shows a 50/50 split-screen effect and is saved as a single composite video. More information is available on the Filmic website. You can download Double Take from the App Store for free.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Moment launches new line of variable ND filters for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras and drones

29 Jan

Moment has announced the launch of its first variable ND filters for cameras and drones. The company is offering a total of four variable ND filter products at this time, one designed for the DJI Mavic 2 Pro drone. According to the company’s website, it designed its new filters to ‘hit the sweet spot on affordability, functionality, and quality.’

The Moment variable ND filters are made with machined aerospace-grade aluminum and Schott B270 Pro Cinema Glass. The three products designed for use with cameras utilize ‘unique geometry and laser-etched graphics’ that enable photographers to view the stop using the viewfinder. As well, the camera filters feature a design that prevents cross-polarization when rotating the filter.

In addition to the camera filters, Moment has also launched a filter for drones, specifically the Mavic 2 Pro. According to the company, this is the first cinema-grade variable ND filter for the Mavic 2 Pro. Offered in 2-5 Stop and 6-9 Stop varieties, this product is made from fused silica glass coated for ‘cinematic color and rugged durability.’ As with the camera filters, these drone filters are designed to prevent cross-polarization.

All four new variable ND filter products are available from Moment now. The Mavic 2 Pro Cine Variable ND filters are priced at $ 80 each; the camera filters are available in 67mm, 77mm and 82mm sizes for $ 150, $ 160 and $ 170, respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rumor: Canon’s next mirrorless camera could have 45MP sensor with IBIS and possible 8K/30p video

29 Jan

Yesterday, Canon Rumors posted an interesting list of rumored specifications for a Canon mirrorless camera it believes will be called the EOS R5. Today, additional details have emerged, painting a picture of what would be an impressive mirrorless camera if the rumored specifications hold true.

According to Canon Rumors’ report, which was created with information shared via multiple, unrelated anonymous sources, the camera could feature a 45-megapixel sensor with in-body image stabilization and still frame rates up to 20 frames per second. Specifically, Canon Rumors claims the IBIS will offer five stops of image stabilization on its own and up to 7–8 stops when used with in-lens stabilization as well. The still frame rates are still up in the air, as the sources are apparently offering conflicting information, but it appears as though it could be 14 fps and 20 fps for mechanical and electronic shutter, respectively.

According to Canon Rumors, the camera will offer 4K video at 120 fps and could offer 8K Raw at up to 30 fps, although it is noted that the 4K / 120 fps could be a crop mode to control heat and the 8K Raw could refer to a special timelapse mode in the camera.

Those specs are enticing, but it’s the rumored video features that are really interesting. According to Canon Rumors, the camera could offer 4K video at 120 fps and could offer 8K Raw at up to 30 fps, although it is noted that the 4K / 120 fps could be a crop mode to control heat and the 8K Raw could refer to a special timelapse mode in the camera.

Other details rumored include the addition of a scroll wheel, the removal of the touchbar, a larger-capacity battery that looks similar to the LP-E6/N batteries currently used by Canon, and an announcement date ‘ahead of CP+ next month.’

Canon users have long been asking for an R-series camera body worthy of Canon’s growing lineup of RF-mount lenses and if these rumors indeed come to fruition, it’s safe to say there won’t be much room left to complain. However, these specifications are just that: a rumor, so there’s also the possibility these are little more than hearsay or misleading fragments cobbled together from multiple other rumors.

In light of these rumored specifications, let us take a second to ask you, the reader, how you would like to see Canon evolve its R-series lineup going forward?

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Confirmed report: PDN is retiring its print and online magazines, PhotoPlus and WPPI to stay

29 Jan

Over the past few weeks, there have been rumblings behind-the-scenes that Photo District News (PDN) is shutting down. Curious to know the veracity of these claims, DPReview contacted PDN’s publisher, Emerald Expositions, last week and were connected with a high-level source who confirmed off-the-record that the details in the rumors were indeed true and an official statement would follow ‘in the next few weeks.’

This afternoon though, American Photography’s Pro Photo Daily published a statement from an Emerald Expositions spokesperson confirming the exact news we were told was off-the-record: that PDN would cease operation of its print magazine and no longer post new articles to PDN Online, but continue to publish Rangefinder Magazine as well as continue both the PhotoPlus and WPPI tradeshows.

A look at what will be the final six print issues of Photo District News.

We have confirmed, via our aforementioned source at Emerald Expositions, that Pro Photo Daily’s quotes were from an Emerald Expositions spokesperson, but that they were said off-the-record and not meant to be shared at this time. Thus, we’re now at a point where Emerald Expositions hasn’t publicly confirmed its closure but has confirmed the now on-the-record statements are indeed true.

Until Emerald Expositions publicly shares further details, we will stick to quoting only what Pro Photo Daily shared in its article:

‘PDN’s current owner, Emerald Expositions, has confirmed that the print edition of the magazine will no longer be published, and that no new content will be added to its online edition. Rangefinder magazine, also owned by Emerald Expositions, will continue to be published […] “The PDN online content will not vanish, and we’re looking for ways to ensure that what content there is will continue to be easily accessible, but there won’t be new content,” said a spokesperson for Emerald Expositions, which operates business-to-business trade shows in the United States, including the PhotoPlus show in New York and the WPPI show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show for wedding and portrait photographers and filmmakers. Both trade shows will continue.’

Our source at Emerald Expositions also shared with us the following statement, paraphrased for clarity with permission:

‘We [at PDN are] extremely appreciative of the PDN community and photo community at large. Our goal is to give our engaged and committed community the info they want when and where they want it. PDN, in its current form, is being retired [but] our community and content isn’t going away; it will just be servicing the community in different ways.’

We will share more information regarding PDN when the details are made public by Emerald Expositions.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Kodak Alaris warns the TSA’s new airport CT scanners can damage undeveloped film

29 Jan

Kodak Alaris has alerted its customers to the risks of CT scanners being used by the TSA to scan carry-on luggage in a number of airports throughout the United States. According to the company, it tested the effects of these scanners on film products to determine just how risky they are. The results, according to a long Facebook post from Kodak Alaris, were ‘not good.’

In March 2019, the TSA announced a $ 96.8 million contract that had been awarded to Smiths Detection for 300 CT scanning systems that will be installed in 145 U.S. airports to screen carry-on bags. Some of these CT scanning systems are now in use at select airports and others will go live over the coming year.

‘To better assess the risk to film from the new carry on scanners we brought a small quantity of Portra 400/135 to John F Kennedy Airport,’ Kodak Alaris explains on Facebook. The film was put through these scanning systems one to 10 times and then was later evaluated by Eastman Kodak Research experts.

Kodak describes the results as ‘not good,’ saying:

Just 1 scan shows significant film fogging, leading to smoky blacks and loss of shadow detail. This will be more significant for higher speed films. Although it’s possible that a roll of 100 speed film would show less degradation, we strongly recommend against putting any unexposed or exposed but unprocessed film through a CT Scanner.

In order to avoid this, Kodak tells photographers to keep their film products in a carry-on bag and to request that TSA agents hand-check the film rather than sending it through the CT scanner. The TSA confirmed to Kodak that its agents are trained in hand-checking movie film, roll film and single-use film cameras.

The TSA warned Kodak that ‘a limited number of [carry-on] screening checkpoints’ feature X-ray equipment that may damage film. In these cases, the airports have put up warning signs at the checkpoints to warn passengers who may have undeveloped film in their bags. The majority of X-ray screening equipment used for checked baggage rather than carry-on baggage will damage undeveloped film as well, according to the TSA.

Kodak says it is developing ‘warning stickers’ that photographers will be able to print out at home and put on plastic bags containing their film products when traveling.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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