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Tamron developing a compact 70-180mm F2.8 telephoto zoom for Sony E-mount

23 Oct

Tamron has announced the development of a compact tele-zoom for full-frame Sony E-mount bodies: the 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD. The lens will be just 149mm (5.9″) long and will weigh in at 815g (1.8lbs), and it will use the same 67mm filters as the two other lenses in the series: the 17-28mm F2.8 and 28-75mm F2.8.

The 70-180 will offer ‘several’ specialized glass elements and will use the company’s VXD linear focus motor. The minimum focus distance is a relatively short 0.85 meters (33.5 inches). The lens will be sealed against dust and moisture, and will have a fluorine coating to repel oil and water from the front element.

Tamron says that the 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD will be available in Spring of next year.

Press Release:

Tamron Announces the Development of Compact and Lightweight High-Speed Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sony E-Mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

Much-anticipated third model in its series of F/2.8 high-speed zoom lenses delivers superb optical performance with extremely quiet, fast focus

70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056)

October 23, 2019, Commack, NY – Tamron announces the development of a new high-speed telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056). Availability of this new zoom is planned for Spring 2020. The lens will be on display at the upcoming Photo Plus Expo in New York City this week and Salon de la Photo in Paris next month.

Developed under the concept of “making high-speed zoom lenses user-friendly,” Model A056 features a compact and lightweight design, an ideal match for full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. The 67mm filter diameter is the same as all other Tamron lenses in this series. The optical design includes several specialized glass elements that contribute to the lens’s superb imaging performance and its very short 33.5 in MOD (Minimum Object Distance) expands overall versatility. The lens adopts Tamron’s newly developed VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism that produces a quiet, quick autofocus drive.

Other features that support a great shooting experience include a Moisture-Resistant Construction helpful for outdoor shooting and Fluorine Coating for easy maintenance. In addition, Model A056 is fully compatible with various camera-specific features including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF. This new model joins the 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A046) and the 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A036) and brings Tamron’s total of F/2.8 zoom lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras to three.

Main features

  1. Comfortably compact (149mm / 5.9 in) and light weight (815g / 28.7 oz).
  2. 67mm filter diameter, same as all other Tamron lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras.
  3. Superb optical performance and MOD of 5 in. for a broader range of photographic versatility.
  4. Extremely quiet and fast newly developed VXD linear motor focus mechanism.
  5. Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating contribute to a comfortable, user friendly photographic experience.
  6. Compatible with various camera-specific features including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF.

* Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.

Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 70–180 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8
Aperture ring No
Optics
Special elements / coatings Fluorine coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.85 m (33.46″)
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Linear Motor
Full time manual No
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 815 g (1.80 lb)
Length 149 mm (5.87″)
Sealing Yes
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock Yes
Filter thread 67 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CalDigit launches new, rugged 512GB ‘Tuff nano’ USB-C SSDs with 1055MB/s read speeds

23 Oct

Computer accessory manufacturer CalDigit has released its ‘Tuff nano’ series, a lineup of compact external USB-C SSDs.

As the name alludes to, the ‘Tuff nano’ SSDs feature a protective rubber housing around a metal frame, akin to Lacie’s rugged external drives. This design offers a certified IP67 rating with the ability to be submerged under one meter of water for 30 minus, as well as dust and shock resistance.

Inside, the bus-powered SSDs is a Toshiba M.2 NVMe SSD capable of read and write speeds up to 1055MB/s and 900MB/s, respectively. Data is transferred via USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2) and although the drives come pre-formatted for macOS (HFS+), they will also work with ChromeOS, iPadOS, Linux and Windows devices.

The drives measure 7.59cm x 5.44cm x 1.45 cm (2.99in x 2.14in x 0.57in) and weigh just 74g (0.163lbs).

CalDigit’s ‘Tuff nano’ SSDs are currently available in 512GB capacity for $ 149.95 on CalDigit’s online store. Color options include ‘Charcoal Black,’ ‘Olive Green,’ ‘Royal Blue’ and ‘Tomato Red.’

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Utah Senator introduces Drone Integration and Zoning Act of 2019

22 Oct

Republican Utah Senator Mike Lee was heavily involved in the unsuccessful Drone Federalism Act of 2017, a bill sponsored by California Senator Dianne Feinstein that sought to restrict drone usage by giving local government and property owners jurisdiction over National Airspace. Now he’s back with a new bill, the Drone Integration and Zoning Act, that will allow cities, states, and Native American tribes to set their own rules on low-flying drones, effectively overriding regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

In a statement regarding the new bill, Sen. Lee said:

‘The FAA cannot feasibly or efficiently oversee millions of drones in every locality throughout the country […] The reason that the states have sovereign police powers to protect the property of their citizens is because issues of land use, privacy, trespass, and law enforcement make sense at the state and local level. The best way to ensure public safety and allow this innovative industry to thrive is to empower the people closest to the ground to make local decisions in real time and that is exactly what the Drone Integration and Zoning Act does.’

Basically, if passed, it would give home owners, local businesses, and counties full control over the first 200 feet of airspace above their designated property lines. Above 200 feet, FAA rules would apply. The FAA is not in favor of being overruled by local governments as these new ordinances would create even more confusion amongst drone operators. In a statement to Axios, DJI’s Director of U.S. legislative affairs, Mark Aitken, said the bill would ‘spur state and local governments across the country to impose harsh and conflicting taxes and fees on professional and recreational drone flights, throttling an industry still in its infancy.’

Currently, 34 out of 50 U.S. states, including California, are legally allowed to enforce their own regulations and restrictions on drone use at a county level. One state where this isn’t allowed is Michigan and a group of people, including the Michigan Coalition of Drone Operators, is fighting back. Back in December, a Genesee County sheriff arrested and detained Jason Harrison for flying in a park. The flight was legal, despite them attempting to rewrite legislation on drone use to fit their preferences – something that is in violation of Michigan State Law – Public Act 436 of 2016.

A follow-up trial is scheduled for November 8th in Flint, Michigan. If the judge rules in Harrison’s favor, it will hopefully set a precedent for how National Airspace is dictated across the U.S. While the Drone Integration and Zoning Act of 2019 will likely not gain much traction with Congress, it’s still worth writing your Senator to explain how patchwork drone laws will only cause chaos and confusion amongst operators and lawmakers, alike.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Lomography launches LomoMod No.1 DIY cardboard camera with a liquid-filled lens

22 Oct

Lomography has introduced LomoMod No.1, a DIY medium-format camera constructed from cardboard, as well as a new lens with a shutter and aperture unit. The lens can be filled with liquid from a syringe, according to Lomography, in order to produce ‘unique artistic aesthetics’ using tea, coffee, and more.

Much in the same way as Google’s cardboard virtual reality headset, Lomography’s new LomoMod No.1 ships as flat-packed sustainable cardboard that the customer assembles at home. This process appears fairly straightforward, as the construction doesn’t require glue or screws to put together. In addition to being moddable, the cardboard camera is also doubled-sided to offer matte black and UV pattern options.

Below is a gallery of sample images taken with the camera:

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Beyond the cardboard camera body, the LomoMod No.1 features a unique lens that replaces traditional filters with an injectable design. The companion shutter and aperture module feature both normal and bulb modes with support for long exposures. The unit features customizable aperture plates, as well, for creating ‘unique’ bokeh. Rounding out the design is a tripod mount and PC-sync and cable release socket.

The full kit ships with:

  • 11 Sheets of Cardboard Cutouts
  • 1 Sheet Aperture Plates Set
  • Sutton Lens Module
  • Aperture and Shutter Module
  • 120 Film Spool
  • Tripod Nut
  • Tube
  • Syringe
  • Valve
  • Colorful Stickers
  • Photo Book & User Manual

The Lomography LomoMod No.1 is available to pre-order for $ 59 USD. Units have already started shipping in Hong Kong but won’t start shipping in Japan, the United States or Europe until early next month.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Irix announces impending release of its new 45mm T1.5 cinema lens

22 Oct

Cine lens manufacturer Irix has announced the impending arrival of the Irix Cine 45mm T1.5, its latest full-frame cinema lens.

This new lens marks the third full-frame cinema lens Irix has made specifically for shooting at up to 8K resolution. Irix says the 45mm T1.5 is ‘based on a completely new [11 elements in 9 groups] optical design which includes four elements made of high refraction glass, one extra-low dispersion lens and one aspherical lens’ and delivers ‘ultra-low’ 0.5-percent distortion.

The nine-blade aperture diaphragm ranges from T1.5 to T22 and the lens features ‘practically no focus breathing,’ according to Irix. Other features include a 95mm front filter thread on the housing of the lens, another 86mm built-in filter thread and a reversible lens hood that’s attached via magnets, which Irix teases will work with ‘future accessories.’

The gears are standardized 0.8 pitch mod cine gears and the lens, which is constructed of a magnesium-aluminum alloy is sealed. Irix doesn’t specify what the lens should be able to handle, other than saying it’s ‘prepared for all weather conditions.’

The Irix Cine 45mm T1.5 will be available in Canon EF, Sony E, MFT and Arri PL mounts. Pricing and availability ‘will be announced soon.’

Press Release

Irix Cine 45mm T1.5 — into the art of cinematography

Irix expands its offer of cinematographic lenses with the new full-frame 45mm T1.5.

Irix, the manufacturer of high-class optics, expands its Cine line by introducing the new 45mm T1.5 lens. This new model is the third full frame cinematographic lens designed for shooting with Ultra HD 8K cinema cameras. The Irix 45mm T1.5 is based on a completely new optical design which includes four elements made of high refraction glass, one extra-low dispersion lens and one aspherical lens. 11 elements in 9 groups deliver crisp details, vibrant colors and an ultra-low – 0,5% distortion. The circular 9-blade iris ensures a pleasant background blur and a smooth adjustment of the T- number from 1.5 to 22. With practically no focus breathing, the Irix Cine 45mm T1.5 is the perfect lens for filming scenes with a natural character.

Press release October 21st, 2019 — Irix Cinematic Design

The 45mm T1.5 is the third lens in the Irix Cine line which stands for a perfect combination of advanced technology and modern design. A good example of the Irix smart design is the front housing element which has a diameter of 95mm and a built-in 86mm filter thread. It also provides a magnetic mount for the reversible lens hood and for future Irix Cine accessories.

This synergy is also visible in the shape of the geared rings which have been integrated into the lens housing. The convenience of operating by hand and full compatibility with follow focus systems was a priority in the external design of the lens. You can use any follow focus system you like and position it wherever you want to thanks to a special rotating adaptive ring design. The adaptive ring can be adjusted to any desired position and expose the geared ring to couple with follow focus systems.

The Irix Cine line has been carefully deliberated from the start. The focus and aperture rings of all the lenses are aligned at the same height and have the same rotation angle. With the exception of the Irix

150mm T3.0 Macro 1:1, where a longer 270 degrees focus throw is necessary, the rest of the Irix Cine range lenses have ring rotations of 180 degrees for the focus ring and 75 degrees for the aperture ring.

Ready to shoot in any weather conditions

A high-class cinematic lens must work in any atmospheric condition. No matter if you are shooting on burning sand in the Sahara Desert or on the frozen peaks of the Himalayas – the Irix 45mm T1.5 is prepared to not only face it, but also to capture the best image possible. Every time. Enjoy your lens’ reliable construction with rubber seals placed in all the crucial points to ensure protection against rain or dust. Now, you can film anytime, anywhere – and seize the wondrous power of nature.

Your comfort is important! Focus and aperture marks are laser engraved and filled with UV paint. This makes them visible, even in low-light environments.

Versatility and compact in size

Irix Cine lenses are some of the most compact and lightest film lenses covering the full frame format. The housing is made of a lightweight and impact-resistant aluminum-magnesium alloy which has been successfully used and tested in the Irix Blackstone still lenses. Thanks to the low weight (every Irix Cine lens weighs about 1.1 kilograms / 2,4lbs), they can be used on smaller cameras on handheld rigs or stabilizers as well as on professional setups. In order to achieve greater comfort while working with follow focus systems, the Irix Cine lenses are equipped with a lens support foot. Depending on your needs, this support foot can be attached to the lower or upper part of the lens.

Key features of the Irix Cine 45mm T1.5 lens:

  • Mid-range focal length with field of view 51,4°

  • Suitable for shooting with Ultra HD 8K resolution cameras

  • High-quality optical elements – 11 elements in 9 groups. HR, XLD, ASP produced in

    Japan

  • High maximum transmittance value of T1.5 up to T22

  • Standardized 0.8 Pitch Mod Cine Gears

  • Very low distortion -0.5%

  • Sealed construction prepared for all weather conditions

  • Compatibility with standard follow-focus systems and lens control motors

  • Front filter thread size 86 x 1.0 mm

  • Standard 95mm front diameter for cine accessories

  • Equipped with a support foot

  • Irix Magnetic Mount System

  • Focus scale available in metric or imperial units

  • Laser engraved markings filled with UV paint

  • Durable magnesium-aluminum alloy

  • Weight 1.1 kilograms / 2.42lbs

Available mounts

The Irix Cine 45mm T1.5 lens will be available in the four most popular industry mounts: Canon EF, Sony E, Olympus / Panasonic MFT and Arri PL-mount

Price and availability

Price and availability of the Irix Cine 45mm T1.5 lens will be announced soon.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Google’s Dual Exposure Controls and Live HDR+ features remain exclusive to Pixel 4

22 Oct

Google’s brand new flagship smartphone Pixel 4 comes with a variety of new and innovative camera features. Google has already said that some of those features, for example the astrophotography mode, will be made available on older Pixel devices via software updates.

However, two of the new functions will be reserved for the latest generation Pixel devices: Dual exposure controls, which let you adjust highlights and shadows via sliders in the camera app, and Live HDR+, which gives you a WYSIWYG live preview of Google’s HDR+ processing. Google confirmed this in a tweet:

According to the tweet the reason these two features won’t be available on the Pixel 3 and older devices is down to hardware rather than a marketing decision. It appears the older phones simply don’t have enough processing oomph to display the HDR+ treatment and manual adjustments in real time.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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iPhone users get free unlimited Google Photo storage for original photo files, for now, while Pixel 4 owners have to pay up

22 Oct

All Android phones running Google apps come with free Google Photos cloud storage for images and videos captured with the device. However, image and video files are not stored at original quality. Instead, they are compressed to what Google calls ‘high quality’. Users who prefer to store their original out-of-camera files in the cloud have to shell out for one of Google’s storage plans.

On its own Pixel device, Google has in the past made an exception. Users of the Pixel 3 and previous Pixel devices could store unlimited original files for life, but this perk has ended with the brand new Pixel 4. Users of the latest Google flagship will just be treated like users of any other Android phone.

Now it seems the only ones benefiting from Google’s free unlimited storage for original photos are actually the users of one of Apple’s recent iPhones. Reddit user u/stephenvsawyer discovered that images in the HEIC/HEIF format, which recent iPhones use by default, will be stored without any compression.

A screenshot from Google’s Pixel 2 promotional page captured at the time of the release showing the no-longer-current benefit of getting unlimited storage of original files for free.

The reason for this is pretty simple: if Google tried to compress the images, the file size would actually increase. So the decision to save original HEIC/HEIF files to its cloud platform saves Google both storage space on its servers and computing power. It’s worth noting that this only applies to photos. iPhone videos are saved at 1080p resolution, even if they were recorded at 4K settings.

The latest version of the Android OS, Android 10, technically supports the HEIC/HEIF format, but Pixel 4 devices don’t currently offer this option. So, at least for now, iPhone users are actually getting more out of Google Photos than users of Google’s own flagship phone.

In a statement made to Android Police, Google said ‘We are aware of this bug and are working to fix it.’ What exactly this ‘fix’ entails remains to be seen, but there’s a good chance this iPhone loophole could get closed down in the near future.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM sample gallery

21 Oct

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The RF 24-70mm F2.8 isn’t a showstopper like the RF 28-70mm F2. But it’s a lens that will appeal to a lot of EOS R photographers, with its bright, constant aperture covering a handy zoom range, and weather-sealing to help keep it protected from the elements. It became available at the end of September along with the nearly-identical RF 15-35mm F2.8, further expanding the range of options for full-frame Canon mirrorless shooters.

We snagged some time with the lens during what’s likely to be some of the last nice weather of the season – take a look.

See our Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8
sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Laowa opens pre-orders for new 17mm F1.8 MFT lens, set to ship later this month

21 Oct

Venus Optics has announced the Laowa 17mm F1.8 for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera systems is currently available to pre-order and will ship later this month.

The manual lens, which costs $ 149, is constructed of nine elements in seven groups, features a seven-blade aperture diaphragm, has a 15cm minimum focusing distance and a 46mm front filter thread. The 34mm full-frame-equivalent focal length offers a 65-degree angle of view and the lens weighs in at just 172g (6oz).

Venus Optics also notes the lens is ‘drone-friendly,’ due to the versatile MFT mount, lightweight design and its Frog Eye Coating (FEC), which allegedly repels water and dirt off the front lens element.

Below is a sample gallery of images Venus Optics has provided:

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You can pre-order the Laowa 17mm F1.8 MFT now on Laowa’s website for $ 149. The first units are expected to ship out in ‘late October,’ according to Laowa.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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