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Fujifilm X-T200 is lighter, faster, offers 4K/30p and costs $800

26 Jan

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Fujifilm has announced the X-T200, boasting a wide range of improvements over its X-T100 predecessor. The X-T200 uses a 24MP Bayer sensor like the T100 did, but uses copper rather than aluminum wiring, which provides 3.5x faster readout and had allowed Fujifilm to extend the high ISO by one stop, to 25600.

The X-T200 is an altogether lighter camera than the X-T100, weighing in at 370g / 0.8lb. Where the T100 offered very little in the way of a grip, the X-T200 provides a prominent, protruding grip for more comfortable hand-holding. The T200’s touchscreen is larger (3.5″ vs. 3″) and inherits a more touch-friendly menu from the X-A7.

Another welcome improvement is the ability to shoot un-cropped 4K video at 29.97 and 24p

Fujifilm promises autofocus improvements as well, including the latest eye detection algorithms. The X-T200 offers more phase-detect pixels (140k versus 16k), better PDAF coverage (across the whole sensor, rather than a central 25%) and more selectable autofocus points (425 vs. 91) than its predecessor. Burst shooting is improved to 8 fps (compared to 6 fps).

Another welcome improvement is the ability to shoot un-cropped 4K video at 29.97 and 24p, compared to the T100’s 4K/15p. Slow motion 1080/120p is also now an option, and a video setting has been added to the mode dial.

The Fujifilm X-T200 will ship in late February for $ 700 body-only or $ 800 with XC 15-45mm F3.5-5.6 OIS PZ kit lens.

Press release

INTRODUCING THE X-T200 MIRRORLESS DIGITAL CAMERA: A FULLY-FEATURED CAMERA TO DOCUMENT THOSE DAY-TO-DAY MOMENTS

Valhalla, New York – January 23, 2020 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation is pleased to announce FUJIFILM Corporation’s launch of its “FUJIFILM X-T200” (hereinafter “X-T200”) mirrorless digital camera.

The X-T200 provides content creators of all levels with a new, light-weight and compact mirrorless camera body that features a newly designed EVF, quick face detection AF, and a new sensor and processor combination that can create 24.2MP stills at 8 FPS and record 4K UHD video at 30fps.

An ideal camera for creative individuals who want to make high-quality imagery anywhere, the X-T200’s HDR functions for still and video make this easier in high- contrast environments. It can also record Full-HD 120p video, making it a great tool to use for scenes needing super slow motion. Additionally, the new Digital Gimbal Function can now be used to smoothly record video in-camera by mitigating camera shake through new gyro sensors in the camera body. This enhances image quality even further beyond what normal Smartphones can provide comparatively.

Incredible Image Quality for any Situation
X-T200 combines innovation, design, and technology to provide image makers of all levels with a complete solution to unlock limitless creative possibilities. Weighing 13.05oz (370g), X-T200 is about 2.82oz (80g) lighter than its predecessor (the X-T100) and is equipped with a new vari-angle touch-screen, a high-speed APS-C 24.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor which uses copper wiring for optimal performance, and an intuitive user interface that provides professional quality with the ease and familiarity of a Smartphone. Able to process data 3.5 times faster than the X-T100, rolling shutter is reduced with the X-T200, while AF performance in the X-T200 is dramatically enhanced through the use of phase detection autofocus pixels across the sensor.

Touch Your Way to the Perfect Image
X-T200 is equipped with a vari-angle 3.5-inch, 16:9 Aspect Ratio widescreen LCD touch- screen that can be opened and closed between 0 to 180 degrees and rotated between – 90 to +180 degrees. It also provides an intuitive and responsive control over the camera’s features and functionality and can be used to adjust a variety of settings, like brightness, background blur, film simulation effects, and image aspect ratios.

Focus on the Faces and the Moment
The use of on-sensor phase detection pixels across the sensor and a new AF algorithm means focus can be achieved quickly and in a variety of conditions. The updated Face/Eye Detection AF makes focusing on individuals or groups of people quick and easy. This is even possible when the camera’s LCD monitor is flipped out and you want to take a selfie. Automated functions, like Main Subject Recognition, allow the camera to be set to recognize and track a main subject within the frame. These features, combined with a burst mode of 8fps, allow you to see, frame, and make images of those important moments with those important people.

Legendary Color Science
Fujifilm’s history in color science has given it world renowned status among image- makers across the world. With over 85 years of experience in the industry, Fujifilm has been responsible for some of the most iconic photographic films in history and this exceptional knowledge has been poured into the 11 digital film simulation modes installed into X-T200. Images made with these film simulations carry the look and feel of the actual films that inspired them, which are a great building block to sparking creativity in image- making. In addition, 20 advanced filters, which includes the new, “Clear Filter”, give even more creative possibilities to image-makers as they seek to express themselves artistically.

When Stills Just Aren’t Enough
The new Electronic Stabilization and HDR Video modes, along with the X-T200’s basic internal editing functions, helps X-T200 do more than just produce beautiful 4K Video– it ensures that videos are stable, crisp, and properly trimmed so they can be easily shared with family and friends. A gyro sensor sits at the heart of the new Electronic Stabilization Mode and assists in reducing the effects of camera shake when recording video footage. The new HDR Video function makes recording footage in high contrast situations much easier and more practical, while its in-camera video editing functions allow for clips to be trimmed and right-sized before they are shared. This means creators can share the perfect section of a super-slow motion clip or the best part of their 4K footage right from the camera to their Smartphone without ever needing to open a computer!

Pick Your Favorite Color and add a Fast Prime Lens
X-T200 will be available as a standalone body and as a kit with the XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ Lens in three colors (Silver, Dark Silver, and Champagne).

For those interested in expanding their X-T200 tool kit, the new FUJINON XC35mmF2 lens gives an equivalent to 52mm field of view on 35mm format. Weighing just 130g and measuring 46.5mm in length, this new prime lens has nine elements, including two aspherical lens elements in six groups, which work to produce sharp and crisp images with creamy bokeh. AF operation is quick and near silent thanks to the use of an internal focus system and a stepping motor, which is used to drive the focusing elements quickly and accurately.

X-T200 is expected to be available for sale in late February 2020 at manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing as follows:

  • X-T200 camera body only: $ 699.95 USD ($ 899.99 CAD)
  • X-T200 kit including camera body and XC15-45mm45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens: $ 799.95 ($ 1,049.99 CAD)
  • XC35mmF2 lens: $ 199 USD ($ 259.99 CAD)

For more information, please visit https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/cameras/x-t200/.

Fujifilm X-T200 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 699 (body), $ 799 (w/15-45mm lens)
Body type
Body type SLR-style mirrorless
Body material Metal, composite
Sensor
Max resolution 6000 x 4000
Image ratio w:h 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 24 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.7 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, ISO 200-12800 (expands to 100-51200)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 100
Boosted ISO (maximum) 51200
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, normal
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (Fujifilm RAF format)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Digital zoom Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 425
Lens mount Fujifilm X
Focal length multiplier 1.5×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3.5
Screen dots 2,780,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.93× (0.62× 35mm equiv.)
Viewfinder resolution 2,360,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 4 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/32000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Portrait
  • Night
  • Fireworks
  • Sunset
  • Snow
  • Beach
  • Party
  • Flower
  • Text
  • Multiple Exposure
  • Light Trail
Built-in flash Yes
Flash range 7.00 m (at ISO 200)
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Flash X sync speed 1/180 sec
Continuous drive 8.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Average
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I supported)
Connectivity
USB USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI Yes (micro HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description NP-W126S lithium-ion battery & carger
Battery Life (CIPA) 270
Weight (inc. batteries) 370 g (0.82 lb / 13.05 oz)
Dimensions 121 x 84 x 55 mm (4.76 x 3.31 x 2.17)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm announces affordable XC 35mm F2 prime lens

25 Jan

Alongside the X-T200, Fujifilm has announced the Fujinon XC 35mm F2 lens. For those of you not familiar with Fujifilm’s lens names, the ‘XC’ denotes the company’s more affordable optics.

The XC 35mm F2 should pair nicely with Fujifilm’s lower-cost models, such as the X-T200 and X-T30

The XC 35mm F2 is essentially a rehoused version of the XF 35mm F2 R WR. It has a plastic mount and less-solid-feeling construction, and features neither an aperture ring nor weather sealing (the ‘R’ and ‘WR’ in the XF version’s name, respectively). However, it does feature the same optics as the XF version, so image quality should be comparable.

The difference is that this brings the XC down to a price of $ 199. The result is a much more affordable 50mm-equivalent lens for newcomers wanting to expand their photography with a prime lens. In this sense, it’s like the ‘nifty fifty’ lenses traditionally available for most DSLR systems, but in a focal length nicely suited to APS-C users.

Press Statement

[From Fujifilm’s X-T200 Press Release]

For those interested in expanding their X-T200 tool kit, the new FUJINON XC35mmF2 lens gives an equivalent to 52mm field of view on 35mm format. Weighing just 130g and measuring 46.5mm in length, this new prime lens has nine elements, including two aspherical lens elements in six groups, which work to produce sharp and crisp images with creamy bokeh. AF operation is quick and near silent thanks to the use of an internal focus system and a stepping motor, which is used to drive the focusing elements quickly and accurately.

XC35mmF2 lens: $ 199 USD ($ 259.99 CAD)

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New GF roadmap highlights upcoming 30mm F3.5 and 80mm F1.7 lenses

25 Jan

Two new lenses have been added to Fujifilm’s medium-format lens roadmap: the Fujinon GF 30mm F3.5 R WR and GF 80mm F1.7 R WR. The 30mm F3.5 provides a 24mm equivalent focal length and will slot in comfortably between the existing GF 23mm F4 and 45mm F2.8.

The 80mm F1.7 will provide a 63mm equiv. focal length and, at F1.34 equivalent, becomes the brightest lens that Fujifilm has developed for its GFX system. Fujifilm promises it will match the optical performance of its excellent 110mm F2. Both lenses are weather-sealed.

The introduction of these two additional lenses to the roadmap will bring Fujifilm’s total number of GF lenses to 13. No pricing or availability is given at this time.

Press release:

FUJIFILM UNVEILS LATEST DEVELOPMENTS FOR G-MOUNT INTERCHANGEABLE LENSES, COMPATIBLE WITH GFX SYSTEM CAMERAS

Exclusive 13-lens lineup, including 2 newly-announced lenses, provides comprehensive shooting coverage

Valhalla, New York – January 23, 2020 – FUJIFILM Corporation has unveiled the latest plans to add to its Family of GF Lenses, designed exclusively for the GFX Mirrorless Camera System; which is equipped with Fujifilm’s large format (43.8mm x 32.9mm) image sensor, an imaging surface approximately 1.7 times the size of 35mm full-frame sensors*1.

Bringing the eventual total to 13 lenses, this expanded GF lens lineup will accommodate even broader shooting categories and diverse shooting styles.

More about the two lenses recently added to the GF lens development roadmap:

FUJINON GF30mmF3.5 R WR: An impressive, wide-angle, prime lens. This wide angle 30mm lens is an equivalent 24mm focal length in the 35mm film format and is a perfect solution for landscape photography.

This lens will be a slim, compact, and lightweight lens offering incredible resolving power for high-resolution imaging sensors.

FUJINON GF80mmF1.7 R WR: A unique, wide-aperture, standard lens. A standard 80mm lens with an equivalent focal length of 63mm in the 35mm film format, which is incredibly suitable for portraiture and making images in low-light conditions.

This will be the lens with the widest aperture among GF lenses and be an incredible solution for portrait photographers who want beautiful, creamy bokeh with their GFX System Cameras.

This compact and lightweight lens will have a wider angle of view than the highly popular GF100mmF2 R LM WR and deliver the same level of incredible image quality.

*1 – Image sensors measuring 36mm×24mm

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm XC 35mm F2 vs XF 35mm F2 sample gallery (DPReview TV)

25 Jan

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In their latest video, Chris and Jordan from DPReview TV compared Fujifilm’s inexpensive XC 35mm F2 lens with the more durable XF 35mm F2 R WR that costs twice as much.

In this gallery above you’ll see some of the comparison photos they took with each lens, with the XC version coming first.

View sample gallery

Watch DPReview TV’s Fujifilm
35mm F2 lens comparison video

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DPReview TV: Fujifilm 35mm XC vs XF. Same performance for half the price?

25 Jan

The Fujifilm XC 35mm F2 prime lens has the same optical formula as the company’s XF 35mm F2 WR prime but costs half as much. How can this be? Chris and Jordan explain the differences.

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

  • Introduction
  • Fujifilm 35mm lens options
  • Sharpness
  • Image quality
  • Build quality
  • Weather sealing
  • Which one should you buy?

Want to make your own side-by-side comparisons between the two lenses? All the photos from this episode (and more) are in the sample gallery below.

Sample gallery from this episode

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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma releases slew of minor firmware updates for its lenses, mount adapters

25 Jan

Sigma has unveiled a number of firmware updates for its lenses and adapters to improve features and address various issues.

Specifically, Sigma has published firmware updates for its 45mm F2.8 DG DN for Sony E-mount, 100–400mm F5–6.3 DG OS HSM for Canon EF-mount, some of its Sigma SA-mount lenses and its MC-11 SA-E/EF-E mount converter.

The Sigma 45mm F2.8 DG DN for Sony E-mount has received firmware version ’02,’ that Sigma says corrects an issue wherein blur can occur when using the lens with Sony’s in-body image stabilization. You can download firmware version ’02’ for macOS and Windows computers on Sigma’s support page.

The Sigma 100–400mm F5–6.3 DG OS HSM for Canon EF-mount has received firmware version ‘2.06,’ which ‘[optimizes] the operation of Mode 2 in Optical Stabilizer when used in combination with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-21 EF-L.’ It’s not a major update, particularly if you don’t use the MC-21 adapter, but even if you aren’t experiencing the issue, it’s still a good practice to keep your firmware fresh. The updated firmware is available within Sigma’s Optimization Pro program, which works alongside its USB Dock to upgrade the in-lens firmware.

Our initial hands-on with Sigma’s 100-400mm F5-6.3 lens back in 2017.

Sigma has also released firmware updates for a number of its SA-mount lenses. The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM now has ‘reduced the aperture drive noise’ when used with the MC-21 SA-L adatper, while the Sigma 14–24mm F2.8 DG HSM has improved autofocus when used with the MC-21 SA-L adapter.

Both the Sigma 100–400mm F5–6.3 DG OS HSM and 500mm F4 DG OS HSM lenses for Sigma SA-mount have also received an update that optimizes ‘the operation of Mode 2 in Optical Stabilizer’ when used with the MC-21 SA-L adapter. All of these updates can be downloaded through Sigma’s Optimization Pro program, which is available for macOS and Windows computers.

Lastly, Sigma has released a firmware update for its MC-11 SA-E and EF-E converters. The updates, which can be installed via Sigma’s Optimization Pro program, adds support for the aforementioned lenses in their respective mounts.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Laowa launches new 65mm F2.8 2x Macro APO lens for Fuji X, Canon M and Sony E-mount

25 Jan

Venus Optics has unveiled its latest lens, the Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Macro APO lens for Fuji X, Canon M and Sony E-mount camera systems. This marks the first macro lens Venus Optics has designed specifically for APS-C mirrorless cameras.

The lens offers a 2:1 magnification ratio and a 100mm full-frame equivalent focal length. It’s constructed of 14 elements in 10 groups, including three extra-low dispersion elements. Venus Optics says the lens was ‘carefully designed to remove both [lateral chromatic aberration and longitudinal chromatic aberration] to an invisible level.’

Below is a collection of sample images provided by Venus Optics:

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It has an aperture range between F2.8 and F22, and features a nine-blade aperture diaphragm. The minimum focusing distance is 17cm (6.7in) and the front filter thread is 52mm. The lens measures in at 100mm (3.94in) long, 57mm (2.24in) in diameter and weighs 335g (11.8oz).

Below is a video review of the lens from photographer Micael Widell:

The Laowa 65mm 2x APO Macro lens is available on Laowa’s website for $ 400. It’s available for Fuji X, Canon M and Sony E-mount camera systems.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Photo Gallery: Winners of the 2019 Travel Photographer of the Year Awards

25 Jan

Winners of 2019’s Travel Photographer of the Year Awards

During an awards evening at the Fujifilm House of Photography in Covent Garden, London, the winners and runners up were announced for Travel Photography of the Year’s (TPOTY) 2019 competition. Over 20,000 images were submitted from 144 countries. Amateur photographer Katy Gomez Catalina is the first-ever Spanish overall winner and the second-ever female overall winner in the 17-year history of the awards.

TPOTY co-founder Chris Coe said: “Judging these awards, whilst arduous with so many excellent images to choose from, is always a joy and it is both exhilarating and stimulating to see the wealth of creativity evident from around the world. This year’s winning entries are outstanding in all categories, elegant and sometimes thought-provoking and gritty. The portfolio from the overall winner Katy Gomez Catalina is beautiful, sensitive and diverse. Only the second-ever female overall winner of Travel Photographer of the Year, Katy is an amateur photographer and a very, very worthy winner.”

The TPOTY awards were judged by an international panel of photography experts including Panamanian double Pulitzer Prize-winner Essdras M Suarez and Lawrence Jackson, a former official White House photographer under the Obama Administration. Winning images can be viewed at Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, London from April 7th to May 12th. The exhibition will also appear at the South Transept of Chester Cathedral, in June, and at the Xposure International Photography Festival in Sharjah from September 17th – 20th.

It was incredibly difficult to select 15 images to display on this slideshow. All of the portfolios and individual winning images are nothing short of breathtaking, in this author’s opinion. I highly encourage you to visit TPOTY’s Winner’s Gallery and view them all.

Overall winner, Travel Photographer of the Year 2019: Katy Gomez Catalina, Spain

Credit: Katy Gomez/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Lake Mutanda, Uganda

Winner’s biography: Born in Ubeda, Spain Katy is an amateur photographer with a doctorate in veterinary medicine. Her job is related to official control in public health, with focus on the interaction between human and animal health. A passionate travel photographer, Katy has visited more than 60 countries, and her images have been exhibited throughout Spain and also in France, UK, Germany, India, Iran and Colombia.

“I look at the world, not only to testify what I see, but mainly, to express a personal perspective, a point of view, an interpretation and not just a representation. My subjects are very varied being travel photography a common link in all my work. The camera has become an inseparable companion, I cannot see the world if it is not through the eyes of a camera, with these images I compose my travel story as a writer with his diary. I do not take pictures for others, but for me, for the pure pleasure of photographing. But, if I can also evoke an emotion in those who view them, my satisfaction is multiplied.”

About this photo: In 1991 the Batwa pygmies were expelled from their ancestral forest territories and now live under the yoke of misery, lost in an environment they do not understand and find it difficult to adapt to.

Gear and specs: Canon EOS 5D Mark II, 24- 105mm lens, f5.6, 1/160s, ISO 200

Winner, Young Travel Photographer of the Year 2019 aged 15-18: Ankit Kumar – India, age 16

Credit: Ankit Kumar/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Danum Valley in Borneo, Malaysia

Winner’s biography: Ankit Kumar began his journey in photography when he got his DSLR in 2015. Over the last four years, he has had the opportunity to travel to interesting locations in Africa and Europe, where he has taken wildlife and landscape pictures. Winning the Young Travel Photographer of the Year award in 2016 was a turning point in his passion for photography. It ignited in him a thirst for recording wildlife and the changing environment, with an eye towards conservation especially of hunted species and their disappearing world.

Since then, Ankit has won the Asian Geographic Youth Photographer of the Year 2017, was twice Highly Honoured by Nature’s Best Photography Asia in 2017, and Highly Honoured by Nature’s Best Photography in 2018. He is inspired by photographers such as Paul Nicken, Brain Skerry, Beverly Joubert and Keith Ladzinski, who care about the protection of animals and habitats. He also puts his photographic skills to use by supporting charities through an initiative that he, along with his sister have founded, called www.wayto.help.

About this photo: The clouds wrap around the trees in Danum Valley, Borneo.

Gear and specs: Sony A9, 100-400mm lens, f/8, 1/640s, ISO 2000

Winner, Art of Travel portfolio: Paul Sansome, UK

Credit: Paul Sansome/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Reykjavik, Iceland

Winner’s biography: Paul Sansome is a professional fine art and travel photographer based in the south of England and in Vietnam. His artistic photography is produced to the highest standards and his work, which is released in strictly limited editions, is intended to provide that special focal point. Paul is also an experienced photography tutor and has been leading photography holidays for over 15 years. Destinations have included Italy, Morocco, Kerala and Rajasthan in India, Iceland, Vietnam and Myanmar.

Paul started out as a landscape photographer but says “One of the compelling facets of photography is the diverse range of genres that we are able to give our attention to. I have always enjoyed the challenge of wildlife photography, particularly attempting to photograph birds in flight. More recently, much of my photography has been travel based and here the challenge is to portray the emotion of the subject or to tell a story. One common thread through these genres is that the timing of the shot is critical – a fleeting moment of light in the landscape, a moment of animal behaviour or the flash of emotion on a person’s face.”

About this photo: The mesmerizing modern architecture of the Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik, Iceland. This building provides endless photography opportunities both from inside and outside.

Gear and specs: Canon EOS 6D MkII, 15mm F2.8 fisheye lens, f10, 1/60s, ISO 800

Highly Commended, Art of Travel: Ted Lau, Hong Kong

Credit: Ted Lau/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Pyongyang, North Korea

About this photo: Since the Mass Games resumed in 2018, all the school kids get involved. After months of training, most all of them are near- professional gymnasts.

Gear and specs: Nikon D850, 70-200mm lens, f8, 1/320s, ISO 2000

Special Mention, Art of Travel: Trâ?n Tuâ?n Vi??t, Vietnam

Credit: Trâ?n Tuâ?n Vi??t/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Ung Hoa, Hanoi, Vietnam

About this photo: A female worker collects bundles of incense in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Gear and specs: Canon 1Dx, 24-70mm lens, f/2.8, 1/1250s, ISO 200

Winner, Endangered Planet portfolio: Alain Schroeder, Belgium

Credit: Alain Schroeder/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Sibolangit, SOCP Quarantine Centre – Northern Sumatra, Indonesia

Winner’s biography: Alain Schroeder is a Belgian photojournalist. In 1989 he founded Reporters, a well-known photo agency in Belgium. He has illustrated over thirty books dedicated to China, Iran, the Renaissance, Ancient Rome, the Gardens of Europe, Thailand, Tuscany, Crete, Vietnam, Budapest, Venice, the Abbeys of Europe, Natural Sites of Europe, etc. Belgian book titles include Le Carnaval de Binche vu par 30 Photographes, and Processions de Foi, Les Marches de l’Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse.

Publications include National Geographic, Geo, and Paris Match. He has won many international awards including a Nikon Japan award for the Who Will Save the Rohingya series, Travel Photographer of the Year 2017 and a World Press Photo 1st Prize Sport Stories, and participated in numerous exhibitions worldwide.

About this photo: Fahzren the orangutan is undergoing a routine medical check. Fahzren is 30 years old and comes from a zoo in Malaysia where he has lived since he was a baby. His medical condition is fine but he does not have the skills to survive in the wild.

Gear and specs: Fujifilm X-Pro2, 14mm lens, f3.2, 1/140s, ISO 1600

Winner, People & Cultures portfolio: Trevor Cole, Ireland

Credit: Trevor Cole/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Mundari, Terekeka county, South Sudan

Winner’s biography: Trevor Cole was born in the city of Derry, Ireland, but has lived most of his life outside the bounds of Ireland; in England, Singapore, Togo, Italy, Ethiopia, and Brazil. He returned to Ireland (Donegal) in 2012.

“My photography, together with travel, have become two of my life’s passions. My photography focuses predominantly on culture and landscapes; images which reflect a spatial and temporal journey through life and which try to convey a need to live in a more sustainable world. I seek the moment and the light in whatever context I find myself and endeavour to use my photographic acumen to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Capturing inimitable moments today to reflect upon tomorrow. My own ‘take’ as a geographer photographer!”

About this photo: Mundari Camaraderie. The bond between the tribesmen and their animals is reflected in the tribal bond itself. The smoke, fires and dust create a scene which is almost biblical. The symbiotic bond between man and the cattle is a scene to behold.

Gear and specs: Nikon D850, 70-200mm lens, f3.5, 1/125s, ISO 3200

Winner, Best Single Image in a People & Cultures portfolio: Debdatta Chakraborty, India

Credit: Debdatta Chakraborty/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Kolkata, India

About this photo: On the day of Chhath festival in India, Hindus, mainly the women, perform Dondi, a kind of penance to appease the divinity and thereby praying for a happier future.

Gear and specs: Nikon D750, 24-120mm lens, f5.6, 1/500s, ISO 800

Winner, Thrills & Adventures portfolio: Brian Clopp, USA

Credit: Brian Clopp/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Dugway Proving Ground – Utah, USA

Winner’s biography: Brian Clopp spent his birthday week in 2019 living amongst the Onaqui wild horses in harsh desert conditions, capturing these stunning images. On recent travels, his hard drive containing a year’s worth of photography was stolen when thieves hacked his rental car, but becoming a TPOTY finalist encouraged him to continue his art.

His portraiture photography subjects include President Jimmy Carter, Ted Turner, Jessie Jackson, James Earl Jones, and more. His work has often been featured as CNN’s Travel Photo of the Day. He is a ‘purist’ photographer who doesn’t edit his shots, striving to capture every setting perfectly.

Brian co-produced the Golden Globe nominated film ‘First They Killed My Father’ directed by Angelina Jolie. He recently completed his directorial debut on a short film about Penelope Stout, the first surviving settler of New Jersey, and the Lenape natives who save her life during a time of war. An Eagle Scout, Brian’s project instilled a collection drive in his small farm town of Cranbury NJ that continues to this day, collecting tens of thousands of winter clothes, hygiene items, and art supplies for the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen. Now, Brian is co-launching The Giving Herb, a wellness CBD company that gives half to charity.

About this photo: To get this shot, I lived amongst the wild Onaqui herd for a week, camping out in a dusty desert environment. Here wild stallions battle dramatically for hierarchy, sending young foals scattering from the melee.

Gear and specs: Nikon D850, 600mm lens, f8, 1/3200s, ISO 640

Winner, Best Single Image in a Thrills & Adventures portfolio: Quanhou Lu, China

Credit: Quanhou Lu/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Xingjiang, China

About this photo: Transferring animals between pastures can take them on an adventurous route.

Gear and specs: Canon EOS-1DX Mk IIO, 24-70mm lens, f4, 1/320s, ISO 100

Winner, Dusk to Dawn: Sumit Dua, USA/UK

Credit: Sumit Dua/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Havana, Cuba

Winner’s biography: Sumit Dua is an amateur photographer based in Los Angeles, CA. By profession he is a doctor, and started photography during medical school. Initially his photography was done on a primitive digital camera borrowed from his uncle. “Photography helps me observe the world and find moments that I would otherwise miss. My passion for photography started with an impromptu trip through many regions of India and it still remains my favorite destination to photograph with its vibrant colors and old textures. My other hobby includes magic.”

About this photo: Walking around the streets of Havana after sunset I came across this ordinary scene where two neighbours were chatting. The. Lighting and colours reminded me of the ‘old master’ paintings.

Gear and specs: Canon EOS 5D Mk III, 70-200mm lens, f2.8, 1/100s, ISO 3200

Commended, Dusk to Dawn: Lance McMillan, Canada

Credit: Lance McMillan/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Blue Pond, Biei – Hokkaido, Japan

About this photo: The larch and silver birch trees within the pond were once living, but are no more – the pond itself was artificially formed years ago as a result of the creation of a dam to protect from the effects of the nearby volcano at Mt. Tokachi. The site is illuminated at night, and the quietness on this chilly evening allowed me time to take in, and photograph, the beauty of the pond.

Gear and specs: Canon EOS 5D Mark III, 35mm lens, 2.8, 2.5 sec, ISO 800

Winner, Oceans, Seas, Rivers, Lakes: Ignacio Palacios, Australia/Spain

Credit: Ignacio Palacios/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Parque Nacional dos Lenc?o?is Maranhenses, Brazil

Winner’s biography: When it comes to photography and travel, few can rival Ignacio Palacios’ experience, skill, and passion. A third-generation photographer, Ignacio has been honoured with over 100 prestigious photography prizes and awards from around the world and has travelled to over 90 countries in his 22 years career. Born in Spain, Ignacio now calls Sydney Australia home – through his unmistakable Spanish spirit continues to influence his work and define his signature style.

Combining his love of travel and photography has proved a powerful combination, and today Ignacio leads photography tours to incredible destinations around the world. As an AIPP double Master of Photography, Ignacio shares his insight, experience, and technique with his clients to help them find their own success and joy on their photographic journey. Ignacio’s distinct, award-winning style can be defined by his mastery of composition, colour, and light. With his minimalistic style and unique ability to connect with his audience through storytelling. Through his images, Ignacio invites his audience to experience the subject not as how he captured, but how he experienced it, evoking an emotional connection between the viewer, subject and artist. Photography and travel will always be Ignacio’s passion, and he is dedicated to helping others ignite their passion too.

About this photo: A lonely tree survives the elements among the sand dunes. This image was shot from a light plane with the doors off.

Gear and specs: D850, Nikon 70-200mm, f8, 1/1250, 400

People’s Choice award and Winner, Street Life: Robin Young, Malaysia

Credit: Robin Young/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Old Havana, Cuba

Winner’s biography: Robin Yong is a multi-award-winning travel and commercial photographer, trained by the famous American photographer Jim Zuckerman, the world famous Venetian Masks Florine Houee and Danielle Massart, and legendary Hollywood photographer Greg Gorman. He enjoys traveling to exotic destinations to befriend and photograph the locals. He is best known for his work on the Omo Valley tribes in Ethiopia, the Venetian Masked models in Venice, the Bokator boxers of Cambodia and the Maikos of Kyoto. He calls these works his Travel Portraits, his Art of Travel Medicine. For most of his works, he does not use flash, reflectors or artificial lighting, depending solely on natural lighting alone. The photos are often dramatic, colourful and extremely beautiful. For Robin, every photo must look like a movie poster.

Over the past few years, Robin has quickly become one of the most popular and influential photographers at the Venice Carnevale and within the past few months, Flowers of Ethiopia alone has gathered numerous awards, finalist status and honourable mentions in many International photography competitions, including Alfred Fried Awards, Antu Sente Cup, Australia’s Top Emerging Photographers, International Photography Awards, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA), Istanbul Photo Awards, Moscow International Foto Awards, One Eyeland Awards. The Prix de la Photographie Paris, Sienna International Photo Awards, Tokyo International Foto Awards, Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) Awards, Xposure Awards etc. In just slightly more than two years, Robin’s travel photos have gathered more than 700 awards worldwide.

About this photo: A street scene in Old Havana, Cuba…the contrast of the young and the old, the rebellious and the wise…

Gear and specs: Canon 5DM3, 50mm lens, f/3.2, 1/80s, ISO 100

Winner, TAPSA: Kiran Ridley, UK

Credit: Kiran Ridley/www.tpoty.com

Photo location: Admiralty, Hong Kong

Winner’s biography: Kiran Ridley is an award-winning photographer based in Paris and working throughout Europe and Asia. Most of his work concentrates on news, social political topics and the human experience. Fascinated by people and naturally curious by the human condition, Kiran, is passionate in documenting ongoing situations throughout the world, capturing the human dynamic, seizing the unique moments that humans create, whether in our hopes and dreams, fears or our anger.

After picking up a camera for the first time at the age of 16, he was enthralled at the ability to capture and bear witness to history in the making and to tell the stories of the people within it. There started a journey of learning and discovery, embracing cultures and environments wherever he is, allowing him to blend in and become accepted, capturing distinct and intimate moments of those around him.

Now, his work is published throughout the world including The Sunday Times Magazine, The Times and The Financial Times, The LA Times, The Washington Post, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Le Figaro, Le Point, Die Welt, El Pais, Forbes, Observer and Guardian newspapers, Time, Spiegel, Economist Magazine, GQ and Conde Nast amongst many others.

About this photo: A pro-democracy protestor throws a molotov cocktail towards police, setting fire to other protestors during anti-government demonstrations.

Gear and specs: Canon EOS1DX Mark II, 24-70mm lens, f7.1, 1/640s, ISO 1600

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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PBS showcases MIT’s ‘The Polaroid Project’ on the history of instant photography

25 Jan

PBS affiliate WGBH recently took viewers into The Polaroid Project, a new exhibition at the MIT Museum. Described as ‘being at the intersection of art and technology,’ Polaroid revolutionized photography with the launch of its first instant camera in 1947.

The exhibit showcases notable Polaroid photography from past decades, as well as a number of Polaroid instant cameras and instant film packs. Curator Willian Ewing in talking about the technology told WGBH correspondent Jared Bowen:

It was a very small thing you could hold in the hand, but you had to participate in the making of the picture. The thing whirred and clicked. The picture came out and developed slowly. And that was described as magic.

The Polaroid Project Part I will be live until February 23 followed by Part II from March 9 to June 21.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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GANPaint Studio uses neural network to ‘paint’ new elements into images

24 Jan

A team of researchers with IBM Research, MIT CSAIL and MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab has launched a new online tool called GANPaint Studio that utilizes a GAN neural network and semantic brushes to ‘draw’ entirely new elements into existing images. In the case of this particular tool, the elements include grass, clouds, brick, doors, trees, sky and domes.

Unedited before image.

As demonstrated in the images above and below, GANPaint Studio is more of a fun demonstration rather than a serious tool for modifying images. The input images are stripped down to a very low resolution when uploaded; the resulting images are clearly edited, though the neural network is capable of some surprisingly realistic edits.

After adding grass, trees and clouds.

In addition to drawing elements into the images, the tool also features an eraser icon that, when clicked, enables the user to erase elements from the input image. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a demonstration of a neural network capable of producing realistic elements in an image using a basic ‘drawing’ tool.

In March 2019, for example, NVIDIA Research demonstrated a similar tool it calls GauGAN to generate a photorealistic image from a series of crudely painted marks, each mark made to represent types of elements like water, trees and sky. NVIDIA has published a sizeable body of research on AI and its potential for generating photorealistic images.

As for GANPaint Studio, anyone can access the photo editor here; it comes populated with a selection of preloaded images, but users also have the option of uploading their own image. While using the tool, we found that the images need to be at a fairly low resolution, such as 800 x 500, for the editor to successfully upload the input image.

The MIT and IBM researchers have made their research on the project publicly available [Note: This is a 48MB PDF].

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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