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Nikon’s Coolpix A1000 and B600 superzooms to hit US shelves in March

27 Feb

Nikon is bringing its previously announced Coolpix A1000 and B600 superzoom cameras to the U.S. next month.

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The Coolpix A1000 is the more compact of the two and features a 16MP, 1/2.3″ BSI-CMOS sensor and 35x, 24-840mm equiv. F3.4-6.9 stabilized lens. Its 3″ touchscreen display can tilt downward by 180° for selfies, and a 1166k-dot electronic viewfinder is also available. The A1000 supports Nikon’s NRW Raw format and, on the video side, can capture UHD 4K video at 30p. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The A1000 is priced at $ 479.

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The Coolpix B600 is a larger, SLR-style superzoom with a substantially longer lens than the A1000. The F3.3-6.5, 60X lens has an equivalent focal range of 24-1440mm, and its stabilization system can reduce shake by up to 3 stops, according to Nikon. Like the A1000, it has a 16MP, 1/2.3″ BSI-CMOS sensor. Unlike that camera, its LCD is fixed and not touch-sensitive, there’s no EVF and Raw isn’t an option. The B600 can capture 1080/30p video (as well as 60i/50i) and also includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The MSRP of the camera is $ 329.

Press Release

NIKON INC. BOOSTS COOLPIX LINEUP WITH TWO EASY-TO-USE COMPACT CAMERAS THAT DELIVER OUTSTANDING ZOOM CAPABILITIES

The Stylish COOLPIX A1000 and Powerful COOLPIX B600 Boast Exceptional Zoom Lenses and Impressive Features

MELVILLE, NY (February 26, 2019 at 9:00 A.M. EST) — Today, Nikon Inc. announced the U.S. availability of the COOLPIX A1000 and COOLPIX B600, Nikon’s newest high-power point-and-shoot cameras with exceptional zoom capabilities built-in. Designed for the everyday photographer who wants optical capabilities that far exceed a smartphone, the A1000 and B600 feature lenses with 35x and 60x zoom respectively, enabling users to capture high-quality images across a wide range of shooting scenarios.

“Customers looking for a compact camera are seeking features smartphones simply cannot deliver, including amazing zoom and the low-light capabilities to capture the moments that matter most,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “The COOLPIX A1000 and COOLPIX B600 are the ideal tools to deliver just that, by providing the photo, video and optical power that users need to take their photography to the next level.”

The COOLPIX A1000 – Stylish, Portable, Powerful

The stylish COOLPIX A1000 delivers high-powered features packed within a sleek, compact design that fits comfortably in a pocket – ideal for a fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle. Designed with a 35x optical zoom lens that covers a versatile focal range that begins at the wide-angle 24mm1 equivalent and extends to the super-telephoto 840mm1 equivalent, the camera is versatile enough to handle everything from everyday events to a once-in-lifetime vacation.

Beyond stunning imagery, the COOLPIX A1000 is also designed to capture dazzling 4K UHD videos of life’s treasured moments and epic adventures.

Primary Features of the COOLPIX A1000:

  • Superb 35x optical zoom NIKKOR lens that covers an expansive 24-840mm1 range to capture anything from vast landscapes to distant subjects
  • With Dynamic Fine Zoom, sharpness is preserved throughout the digital zoom range, which can be expanded up to 70x2, or a focal length equivalent to approximately 1680 mm (in 35mm [135] format)
  • Macro close-up mode that allows users to enjoy macro photography when shooting as close as 1 cm (0.4 in.) to the lens at the maximum wide-angle position
  • 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor with an ISO range of up to 6400 (when using P/S/A/M modes) enables beautiful images even after the sun sets
  • 1166k-dot electronic eye-level viewfinder that aids in the framing process, enabling users to compose their shot even in bright light situations
  • Capture uncompressed RAW (NRW) images for easier editing and post-processing using Capture NX-D, Nikon’s RAW processing software, to create beautiful photographic works without compromising image quality
  • Lens-shift vibration reduction (VR) function to produce sharp images, even without a tripod
  • Record 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) videos with full stereo sound and Hybrid VR functionality for smooth and steady footage
  • Equipped with Nikon’s Active D-Lighting function for enhanced photo quality in high-contrast scenarios, such as shooting backlit portraits. In addition, the Active D-Lighting function, which effectively reduces the loss of details in highlights and shadows in scenes exhibiting great contrast, can also be applied during movie recording3
  • 1036K-dot 3-inch tilting touchscreen display for easier image capture from challenging angles
  • Snap Back Zoom and Side Zoom controls to comfortably adjust camera settings while using the viewfinder
  • Five pre-set Creative Modes and 20 different image effects for photographers who want to enhance their images in-camera
  • Built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth®4 connectivity that makes sharing high quality Nikon images easy when using the Nikon SnapBridge5 app and a compatible mobile device

The COOLPIX B600– Impressive Zoom in a Compact, Easy-to-Use Design

The compact COOLPIX B600 is equipped with a 60x optical zoom NIKKOR lens that covers an impressive focal length range equivalent to 24-1440mm1, enabling users to easily capture events from wide-angle landscapes to super-telephoto close-ups of their favorite ballplayer sliding into home plate. This big zoom power is packed inside a simple and lightweight form factor, making it a great choice for the everyday photographer looking to document their life from both near and afar.

Primary Features of the COOLPIX B600:

  • 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and advanced EXPEED image-processing engine to capture detailed images in challenging light conditions
  • Nail the shot from a distance with a 60x optical zoom NIKKOR lens that spans a 24-1440mm1 equivalent focal range, or go even further with 120x2 Dynamic Fine Zoom
  • Equipped with Macro mode, which allows users to enjoy macro photography with shooting as close as 1 cm (0.4 in.) to the lens at the maximum wide-angle position
  • Capture sharp photos and smooth video thanks to the built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) mechanism capable of reducing camera shake to the same degree as a 3.0-stop6 increase in shutter speed with still photography, and 4-axis Hybrid VR that effectively reduces blur with movie recording
  • 19 scene modes automatically optimize camera setting according to the scene a user is trying to capture, such as the Multiple Exposure Lighten mode that captures dramatic nightscapes and light paths – like the flow of car lights
  • Select from 36 different creative effects and filters to easily bring a creative vision to life
  • Intuitive controls like Snap Back Zoom and Side Zoom controls make it possible for photographers of all levels to capture far-away subjects with ease
  • Record high-quality 1080/60i (50i) and 1080/30p Full HD movies with stereo sound
  • Seamless sharing thanks to the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth®4 connectivity and the Nikon’s SnapBridge5 app, which automatically transfers images to a compatible smart device7 while the user continues shooting
  • Support for the ML-L7 Remote Control, which is capable of a variety of operations over a Bluetooth® connection to the camera
  • Adoption of the EN-EL12 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, which can be charged over USB while inserted in the camera

Price and Availability

The new COOLPIX A1000 (available in Black) and COOLPIX B600 (available in Black) will be available in the U.S. this March 2019 for a suggested retail prices (SRP*) of $ 479.95 and $ 329.95, respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony announces the Remote Commander, a wireless Bluetooth controller for its camera systems

27 Feb

Sony has announced the impending release of a new Wireless Remote Commander that offers wireless control of Sony camera systems using Bluetooth connectivity.

The remote, officially named RMT-P1BT, operates entirely through Bluetooth connectivity and features a fast 0.05 seconds release time, which is more than fast enough for even the most precise of applications.

The Wireless Remote Commander features an external LED for indicating operation status and is also dust and moisture resistant with the ability to operate in extreme temperatures.

As for functionality, the RMT-P1BT offers focus buttons for manual control over focus changes, a customizable C1 button, Start/Stop buttons for movies and control over power-zoom or digital zoom as well. It shouldn’t come as a surprise the RMT-P1BT also includes a dedicated Bulb mode that can be started and stopped with a button press so it doesn’t need to be held down the entire time.

The RMT-P1BT Wireless Remote Comander works with Sony’s a6400, A7III, A7RIII and A9 cameras. It will ship this April for $ 80 USD / $ 110 CAD. It will be available through authorized Sony retailers.

Sony Electronics Inc. Introduces New Remote Commander with Bluetooth Wireless Technology

New RMT-P1BT Provides Reliable and Precise Wireless Shooting

SAN DIEGO — February 26, 2019 — Sony Electronics Inc. has today introduced a new Wireless Remote Commander (model RMT-P1BT) via Bluetooth® wireless technology that provides a reliable, responsive solution for imaging enthusiasts that want to precisely control their camera during landscape shooting, architectural photography, astrophotography, still motion photography, group portraits and more.

The new RMT-P1BT wireless remote commander operates via Bluetooth connectivity, eliminating the need for wires, cables or receivers to connect the remote directly to the camera.The remote features an extremely fast response, within approximately 0.05 seconds release time-lag, that ensures the shutter can be released with precise accuracy.There is also an LED light that indicates operating status to camera by flashing or lighting continuously.Additionally, the remote is designed to resist dust and moisture plus hot and cold temperatures, offering reliable operation in a wide variety of environments and weather conditions.

To maximize control over camera functionality, the new RMT-P1BT wireless remote commander features focus buttons for manual control over subtle focus changes, a remote C1 custom button that can be adjusted based on users preferences.It also includes Start/Stop movie recording and control over power-zoom or digital-zoom functionality, making it the ideal accessory for remote movie shooting.For photographers that prefer to shoot on ‘Bulb’ exposure mode, the remote commander can be set to open and close the shutter with respective clicks of the main button, eliminating the need to press and hold the button throughout exposure time.

Pricing and Availability

The RMT-P1BT Wireless Remote Commander will ship this April for approximately $ 80 US and $ 110 CA. The remote commander will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new remote commander in combination with other Sony’s Alpha™ products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site built to educate and inspire all fans and customers of the Sony’s Alpha brand.

Detailed information on these new products can be found at:

  • RMT-P1BT (US)
  • RMT-P1BT (CA)

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM sample gallery

27 Feb

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Sony’s announced the ninth addition to the G Master lens series in the FE 135mm F1.8 GM. This fast telephoto is well versed for a variety of disciplines, from portraiture to low light sports photography. Prior to launch, we had the chance to take it for a spin at both a Sony shooting event, as well as on our own. Our initial takeaway is the lens is very sharp with high contrast even wide-open, fast-to-focus and capable of pleasing bokeh. Longitudinal chromatic aberration, which shows up purple and green fringing in front of and behind the focus plane, respectively, is largely absent.

That’s some serious optical performance combined with autofocus speeds we’ve never seen from such a fast telephoto prime, which is what allowed us to shoot fast action with a high focus hit-rate. That’s in thanks to not just the four new ‘XD’ (extreme dynamic) linear induction motors driving two separate focus groups, but also the new ‘Real-time tracking’ mode on the new a9 with the new 5.0 firmware. Have a look!

See our Sony 135mm F1.8 GM gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Kodak’s photo service KodakIt criticized for stripping photographers of copyrights

27 Feb

Renewed controversy surrounds Eastman Kodak subsidiary KodakIt, a service launched in 2017 as a way to provide businesses with on-demand access to photographers around the globe. The service was criticized in its early days for offering very low payments, but a new report from PDN highlights another problem: it requires photographers to completely surrender their copyrights.

A report from PDN digs into KodakIt’s ‘Photographer Terms and Conditions,’ noting that it requires its photographers to ‘perpetually and irrevocably’ hand over their copyright to the client who purchased the work — in fact, it specifies ‘the entire copyright’ and all rights associated with it.

Photographers are required to get permission from KodakIt and the client before using any images — including outtakes — for personal promotion. As well, the ‘Photographer Terms and Conditions’ requires KodakIt’s photographers to either destroy or surrender to the client any outtakes from the project.

KodakIt’s restrictions continue from there, also including a ‘Moral Rights Waiver’ as part of its terms and conditions. Under this, the service’s photographers are required to waive all ‘moral rights’ to the work, which includes claiming they shot the images and in any way interfering with ‘the modification or destruction of a work.’

A full copy of the Photographer Terms and Conditions, which was valid as of July 1, 2018, can be found here [PDF].

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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MASV 3.0 data transfer service update brings mobile support, new UI and billing tweak

27 Feb

MASV, a cloud data transfer service targeted at media professionals, has been rebuilt from scratch, the company has announced. Its new MASV 3.0 product uses Amazon Web Services as its new cloud provider and now features 160, rather than 10, servers around the world. MASV rebuilt it uploader code and promises average upload speeds faster than Dropbox, Google Drive, and WeTransfer.

In addition to improving its speed and number of servers, MASV 3.0 features a new user interface utilizing Google’s Material Design framework while retaining the features from product version 2.0. MASV 3.0 also adds mobile support for uploading, downloading, and managing content.

The service has retained its pay-as-you-go billing model, though the service now charges based on how much data is downloaded instead of how much is uploaded. Users can upload data for free and will be charged $ 0.25 per gigabyte downloaded by the recipient. MASV also provides its users with ‘portals,’ enabling recipients to pay for the cost of a file they download from someone else.

Users can sign up for MASV 3.0 now. Charges only apply when a recipient downloads content shared by the user.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Samsung announces Galaxy A30 and A50 dual and triple-camera mid-rangers

27 Feb

Samsung announced its S10 high-end models only a few days ago, but the Korean company also caters for those who cannot or do not want to spend flagship money on a smartphone and still want a decent mobile camera.

The newly announced A30 and A50 smartphones are mid-range models that put a lot of emphasis on the camera. The A50 comes with a triple-camera setup on the back. A 25MP primary module with F1.7 aperture is accompanied by an 8MP super-wide-angle and a 5MP depth sensor for creating a simulated bokeh effect, which both come with a F2.2 aperture lens. The 25MP front camera offers a simulated bokeh effect as well.

The A30 has a dual main camera. A 16MP/F1.7 primary camera can be found next to a 5MP super-wide-angle with F2.2 aperture. The front camera has a 16MP pixel count.

On both devices images can be viewed and edited on an edge-to-edge 6.4” Super AMOLED FullHD+ display and batteries have a 4,000mAh capacity and fast-charging capabilties. The A30 will be available in two versions, either with 3GB RAM and 32GB of internal storage or 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The A50 comes as a 4/64GB variant or with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. Both phones offer a microSD slot that can take cards up to 512GB.

No pricing information has been released yet but expect the new A-series models to be a good few hundred dollars less expensive than the S10 series.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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OPPO has started mass production of 10x zoom smartphone camera module

27 Feb

OPPO has been teasing its periscope-design smartphone tele lens for two years now, but those who expected a product launch at MWC 2019 were disappointed once again. That said, we now at least know when a production device with the company’s 10x zoom system will be commercially available.

OPPO announced it has started mass production of the system and will launch a device with the 10x zoom camera in the second quarter of this year. There’s a slight caveat though: unlike most manufacturers, OPPO bases the zoom factor on the 16mm equivalent super-wide-angle. The tele lens comes with a 160mm equivalent focal length, hence a 10x zoom.

A rendered illustration from the above video showing the construction of the optical elements and sensor inside the periscope-style zoom lens.

Most other manufacturers don’t include the super-wide-angle in the zoom factor and instead use the primary camera, which on the OPPO model comes with a 48MP sensor and likely a 28mm focal length, as a reference.

The periscope design features a prism that reflects incoming light by 90 degrees and makes it possible to include such a ‘long’ lens in a thin smartphone body. The prism is also used for image stabilization. The primary comes with OIS as well and OPPO says the system is 73 percent more efficient than the previous iteration.

In addition the engineers have been able to maintain the dimensions of the older 5x prototype system, despite adding a super-wide-angle and using larger sensors.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony announces FE 135mm F1.8 G Master lens

26 Feb

Sony has announced its FE 135mm F1.8 G Master telephoto prime lens. Sony says that this (relatively) lightweight and portable lens is well-suited for portrait, wedding and sports photographers.

The 135mm F1.8 has 13 elements in total, which include XA (extreme aspherical), Super ED and ED. The XA and Super ED elements in the front group replace traditional large and heavy negative elements to ‘effectively suppress all common telephoto lens aberrations,’ according to Sony. Sony claims that the combination of a Super ED and ED element ‘compensate for axial CA, minimize color fringing and maximize overall resolution,’ while the large XA elements mitigate spherical aberration.

Producing large XA elements that don’t negatively affect bokeh is difficult, but Sony claims its 10nm mold precision and other improvements ensure that onion ring bokeh is non-existent. Furthermore, each lens is individually inspected for smooth bokeh. An 11-blade aperture ensures circular out-of-focus highlights even at F4 and beyond. Sony’s Nano AR coating is used to reduce flare and ghosting, while a fluorine element repels fingerprints and water.

There are four XD linear motors on the lens – two for each of the focus groups – that promise responsive, accurate and quiet focusing. Sony states this is its first lens to offer two direct-drive SSM motors to move two separate XA elements for fast focus. Moving large XA elements was only possible by switching from piezoelectric actuation to linear induction motors. The 135mm F1.8 is weather-sealed and features an aperture ring, focus ring with linear response (important for videographers), two customizable focus hold buttons and a focus range limiter with three settings. The latter allows you to fine tune the lens for your shooting situation and is particularly important given the lens’ close focus distance. If you are shooting distant subjects, limiting focus allows for nearly instantaneous focus without the risk of hunting to extremely nearby distances.

The FE 135mm F1.8 GM will ship in late April for $ 1900. Click on any of the images below to launch our sample gallery from our brief time with the lens at a local shooting event.

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Press Release

Sony Electronics Inc. Announces New Full-frame 135mm F1.8 G Master™ Prime Lens with Stunning Resolution and Bokeh, Excellent AF Performance

SAN DIEGO Feb. 26, 2019 Sony Electronics Inc today introduced a highly anticipated addition to their acclaimed G Master series of full-frame E-mount interchangeable lenses – a 135mm F1.8 full-frame, large-aperture telephoto prime lens (model SEL135F18GM).

Equipped with Sony’s most advanced optical technologies, the new lens is built to meet the extremely high standards of Sony’s G Master series. The new FE 135mm F1.8 GM offers exceptionally high resolution and exquisite bokeh, two qualities that are signature attributes of Sony’s flagship G Master brand. The new lens combines rapid autofocus (AF) acquisition with a lightweight, portable design and a variety of professional functions, making it a versatile, high-performance tool for professional portrait photographers, wedding photographers, sports photographers and a wide variety of imaging enthusiasts.

“Sony’s commitment to growing our lens lineup remains stronger than ever,” said Neal Manowitz, vice president of imaging solutions at Sony Electronics. “Our 31st native full-frame FE lens and 49th overall E-mount lens, the highly anticipated 135mm prime brings the acclaimed G Master quality to another popular focal length for both professionals and enthusiasts to enjoy. We will continue to drive market-leading innovation in all aspects of our imaging business, giving our customers the opportunity to capture and create like they never have before.”

Realizing consistently high resolution across the entire frame, even at F1.8, the FE 135mm F1.8 GM boasts an innovative optical design that places XA (extreme aspherical) and Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements in the front group to effectively suppress all common telephoto lens aberrations. Additionally, the Super ED element plus one ED glass element are strategically positioned to compensate for axial chromatic aberration, minimize color fringing and maximize overall resolution, ensuring outstanding image quality. For impressive clarity, Sony’s unique Nano AR Coating is applied to reduce flare and ghosting that can occur when shooting backlit portraits.

The new telephoto prime lens utilizes its XA element, refined with Sony’s latest bokeh simulation technologies during the design and manufacturing stages, to control spherical aberration and achieve exquisite bokeh. In addition, an 11-bladed circular aperture mechanism contributes towards achieving extremely natural and beautiful background defocus. The exciting new model also features dual-autofocus groups in a floating focus arrangement for improved close-up capability, allowing a minimum focus distance of just 0.7 meters and a maximum magnification of 0.25x.

To ensure that this lens can keep up with fast-moving portrait or sports subjects, the FE 135mm F1.8 GM has been equipped with a total of four of Sony’s proprietary XD linear motors—two for each group—that achieve rapid, reliable and speedy AF tracking and performance. There is also a control algorithm that helps to maximize control response and ensure quiet, low-vibration AF. All of this exceptional performance is packaged in a compact, lightweight body weighing in at 33.6 oz.

The FE 135mm F1.8 GM includes a number of professional controls that enhance ease of operation for both stills and movie shooting. These include an aperture ring that allows direct, intuitive aperture control and a focus ring that features Linear Response MF for fine, responsive manual focus control. There is also a focus range limiter switch, two customizable focus hold buttons, and a focus-mode switch that makes it possible to quickly select auto or manual focus to match changing shooting conditions.

New Circular Polarizing Filters

In addition to the new FE 135mm F1.8 GM Lens, Sony has also announced a new lineup of Circular Polarizing Filters. The new filters, including models for lens diameters 49mm, 55mm, 62mm, 67mm, 72mm, 77mm and 82mm, preserve image quality and resolution about twice[i] as effectively as Sony’s existing circular PL filter lineup, making them a perfect partner for Sony’s flagship G Master series lens. They also feature a ZEISS® T* Coating to minimize flare and a slim filter design to prevent image vignetting and maximize overall performance.

Pricing and Availability

The FE 135mm F1.8 GM will ship in late April 2019 for approximately $ 1,900 US and $ 2,600 CA. The lens will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America.

The new circular polarizer filters will ship in May 2019, with approximate pricing outlined below:

  • 49mm (model VF49CPAM2) – $ 100 US / $ 130 CA
  • 55mm (model VF55CPAM2) – $ 110 US / $ 150 CA
  • 62mm (model VF62CPAM2) – $ 140 US / $ 190 CA
  • 67mm (model VF67CPAM2) – $ 155 US / $ 200 CA
  • 72mm (model VF72CPAM2) – $ 165 US / $ 220 CA
  • 77mm (model VF77CPAM2) – $ 180 US / $ 240 CA
  • 82mm (model VF82CPAM2) – $ 230 US / $ 300 CA

A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new lens and Sony ‘s Alpha products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony’s Alpha brand.

The new content will also be posted directly at the Sony Photo Gallery and the Sony Camera Channel on YouTube. Detailed information pages within Sony.com for the new lens can be found at:

  • SEL135F18GM (US)
  • SEL135F18GM (CA)

[i] Depends on model and focal length of lens attached

Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 135 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.8
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring Yes
Number of diaphragm blades 11
Optics
Elements 13
Groups 10
Special elements / coatings XD, Super ED and ED elements; Nano AR and fluorine coatings
Focus
Minimum focus 0.70 m (27.56)
Maximum magnification 0.25×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Linear Motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Focus distance limiter Yes
Physical
Weight 950 g (2.09 lb)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Filter thread 82 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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HMD Global unveils Nokia 9 PureView with penta-camera setup, Lightroom CC support

26 Feb

HMD Global has unveiled the much-anticipated Nokia 9 PureView smartphone at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona and the new device surely looks as if it had the potential to revolutionize mobile photography.

The main camera on the back features a total of five Zeiss-branded lenses which all come with an equivalent focal length of 28mm, an F1.8 aperture and a 12MP image sensors. Three of the latter are monochrome, two are RGB sensors. A sixth module captures additional depth information of the scene.

So, despite the number of lenses, the Nokia does not offer any ultra-wide-angle or tele capabilities. Instead the Snapdragon 845 chipset and a dedicated image processing chip combine image data captured simultaneously by all five 12MP camera to process single color or monochrome images with better detail and dynamic range than would be possible with conventional methods. In certain situations the camera adds frame stacking into the mix to record even more image information of a scene. Nokia claims the 9 PureView can record dynamic range of up to 12.4 stops which would put it on par with some DSLRs.

Thanks to the number of lenses and the additional time-of-flight depth camera the Nokia is also capable of creating much more detailed depth-maps than most other current high-end phones (1200 layers of depth data vs 10). This should allow for much better and more realistic results when using background blurring portrait and other simulated bokeh modes. The depth information is stored within the image file, allowing for post-capture bokeh editing in Google Photos.

Other interesting image features include a tripod detection. The device can detect when it is mounted on a tripod or supported in some other way and uses longer shutter speeds of up to ten seconds in low light. In addition Raw files include image data captured by all five cameras and Nokia worked with Adobe to include Raw support for the 9 PureView in the mobile version of Adobe Lightroom.

In video mode the phone can record 4K footage at 30 frames per second and the front-facing camera features an F1.8 lens and 20MP Tetracell sensor which uses pixel-binning in low light to output 5MP images with low noise. A dual-tone LED flash is on board as well.

The Nokia 9 PureView will come with 6GB of RAM and 128GB expandable storage at a quite affordable price point of $ 699. The bad news is that Nokia says the device will have a limited production run and become unavailable once stock is depleted. No word on how many units will be produced, though.

The Nokia 9 PureView isn’t for those who were hoping for super-wide-angles, long tele-zooms and seamless zooming on a smartphone. However, the multi-camera setup could be a step into the future of smartphone image quality. We’ll have to wait and see until we get a production device into our hands.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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LG launches triple-camera models V50 ThinQ 5G and G8 ThinQ

26 Feb
LG V50 ThinQ 5G

In previous years LG unveiled its G-series smartphones at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona and the V-series models at IFA in Berlin. For 2019 the Korean manufacturer has decided to launch both new models at the show in the capital of Catalonia .

The biggest news on the V50 ThinQ 5G are the 5G-connectivity and the new Snapdragon 855 chipset. In most other respects the latest V-model has a lot of similarities with its predecessor V40 ThinQ.

At least on paper camera specifications are identical. The V50 ThinQ 5G features a triple-camera setup on the back, combining a 12MP primary camera with F1.5 aperture with a 12MP/F2.4 tele and 16MP/F1.9 super-wide-angle. In video mode the LG can shoot at 4K resolution and up to 60 frames per second. It also features all the manual video controls of the previous model. We quite liked the camera when shooting with the V40 ThinQ, which is still a pretty new device, so it seems LG did not see the need to overhaul the camera department for this new release.

The new model also comes with the same 6.4-inch 3120 x 1440 pixel OLED FullVision display as the previous generation and a dual-front camera with super-wide-angle and 8/5MP resolution. At 4,000mAh the battery is 20 percent larger, though, and audiophiles will appreciate the stereo speakers and 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC, all built into a MIL-STD 810G compliant body.

LG G8 ThinQ

The G8 ThinQ features the same Snapdragon 855 chipset, 6GB of RAM and camera specs as the V50 but has to make do without a 5G modem and a smaller 6.1-inch 3120 x 1440 pixel OLED display and 3,500mAh battery.

There is also a G8s ThinQ with a slightly larger 6.2-inch OLED display with lower 2248 x 1080px resolution. In the camera module it swaps the 16MP super-wide-angle for a 13MP variant but otherwise specs are pretty similar to the regular G8. Both G8 models come with an 8MP front camera and a secondary time-of-flight 3D camera for face unlocking. No pricing information for the new models has been released yet.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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