360Photography

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  • Hoya Solas infrared neutral density filters launch in USA

    Hoya has launched new USA-exclusive Solas infrared neutral density filters. The company says its new IRND filters offer a consistent color balance across the density range while also suppressing infrared, the end result being a balanced image with reduced ‘IR contamination’ like excessive digital artifacts and color shifts.

    Hoya has launched the new Solar IRND filters in the following sizes and densities:

    0.3 (1-stop) – 49mm ~ 82mm
    0.6 (2-stop) – 49mm ~ 82mm
    0.9 (3-stop) – 46mm ~ 82mm
    1.2 (4-stop) – 49mm ~ 82mm
    1.5 (5-stop) – 49mm ~ 82mm
    1.8 (6-stop) – 46mm ~ 82mm
    2.7 (9-stop) – 49mm ~ 82mm
    3.0 (10-stop) – 46mm ~ 82mm

    B&H Photo currently lists the filters with the following prices: 46mm ($ 48.90), 49mm ($ 48.90), 52mm ($ 53.90), 55mm ($ 61.90), 58mm ($ 69.90), 62mm ($ 85.90), 67mm ($ 93.90), 72mm ($ 100.90), 77mm ($ 120.90), and 82mm ($ 151.90).

    Via: Kenko Tokina USA

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Google launches Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones with gyroscope-based video stabilization

    Google has just launched its 2016 smartphones. The Nexus moniker has gone and the new models are Pixel-branded, just like the company’s top-end Chromebooks and tablet. The Pixel and Pixel XL are made by HTC, though only the Google logo appears on the device, and pretty much only differ in terms of screen size and resolution as well battery capacity. The smaller Pixel sports a 5″ 1080p AMOLED display and a 2,770mAh battery, while the XL variant comes with a 5.5″ QHD-screen and a 3,450mAh battery. 

    In the camera department the specifications have not changed much from last year’s Nexus devices. A 1/2.3″ 12MP sensor with 1.55µm pixel size is paired with an F2.0 aperture. There is no optical image stabilization but Google has added a new gyroscope-based video stabilization system that reads gyro data 200 times a second for smoother panning and shake-free handheld recording. The camera can record 4K video, and in stills mode Google’s excellent HDR+ mode is on by default, using an image stacking approach to reduce noise and capture better detail. In addition Pixel owners can store unlimited full-size images in Google’s cloud service.

    Check out the photography-specific features of the Google Pixel from the announcement.

    Both phones come with Google’s brand new Android 7.0 Nougat operating system and are powered by Qualcomm’s latest top-end chipset Snapdragon 821. 4GB of RAM can be combined with either 32 or 128 GB of local storage and a fingerprint reader on the back provides extra security. The Pixel phones will be available in Quite Black, Very Silver, and Really Blue color options. Pricing starts at $ 649 for the standard Pixel. In the US the devices will be exclusive to carrier Verizon, with pre-orders starting today. 

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Google Pixel tops DxOMark’s Mobile rankings

    Google Pixel’s HDR+ mode wows DxO in real-world use. Photo via DxOMark.

    The Google Pixel smartphone has just been launched but DxO has already had a chance to put the new device’s camera through its paces – with impressive results. With a DxOMark score of 89 the Google Pixel features the best smartphone camera ever tested by the French company.

    The DxO engineers found the new Google phone to perform well across all situations but were particularly impressed by the high levels of detail and relatively low noise levels across all light situations. Exposures were accurate, with very good contrast and white balance, as well as fast autofocus. The testers also liked the white balance performance and detail preservation when shooting with flash. Minor weaknesses included some inconsistency in repeated autofocus and artifacts in low-light shots. You can read the full report on DxOMark.com.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Gitzo updates Systematic tripod range with new materials, big feet and Easy Link sockets

    Gitzo has introduced a new range of Systematic tripods that it says are more stable and stronger, and which feature new locking mechanisms for the leg sections. The latest models use what the company calls Carbon eXact for the leg tubing, which it claims offers improved ‘balance between rigidity and weight’. The Systematic range is Gitzo’s top end series and the tripods are designed for heavy cameras and long lenses. Larger feet have been introduced for the new models to prevent slipping and for making uneven ground more easy to rest on, and the twist-lock leg sections have been given G-lock Ultra clamps that Gitzo says are quicker and easier to use.

    The company has also added a connector for the Manfrotto Easy Link system in a first for the Gitzo line-up. This threaded socket allows accessory arms and clamps to be attached to the casting of the tripod so reflectors, flash units, trays and other accessories can be held in place.

    The new models will be priced from $ 799.99/£649.95 and a new range of monopods will start at $ 319.99/£214.95.

    For more information see the Gitzo website.

    Press release:

    Gitzo introduces:
    The New Generation of Photography Support Solutions

    October 2016 – Gitzo, pioneers in developing some of the most advanced and revolutionary technologies for professional camera equipment, proudly introduce the new generation Systematic tripod family and the latest Monopod family, setting new industry standards in premium photography equipment.

    The iconic Gitzo Systematic tripod family is the high-end choice for exacting professional photographers who use long lenses and heavy cameras and require extreme precision – down to the smallest detail – in their work and equipment. The new Gitzo Systematic tripods leverage the latest innovation for the greatest performance ever: the leg tubes are upgraded to Gitzo’s latest generation Carbon eXact, improving the balance between rigidity and weight. New, 50mm diameter big feet enable ultimate stability, preventing slipping and movement. The new G-lock Ultra allows even more comfortable operation and protection while the leg angle selectors guarantee a quicker switch between leg angles – further enhancing ergonomics. Moreover, the new Gitzo Systematic models feature the Easy Link attachment, a 3/8” thread through which a rich array of innovative photography accessories can be attached to facilitate the most advanced shooting techniques. The tripods are offered in a new sizing assortment.

    The new Gitzo Monopods are designed to guarantee unfailing support for the highest quality equipment, enabling professional photographers to comfortably capture the golden moment. They are the ideal combination of rigidity, light weight, precision, rapid set up speed and ergonomics. Now even stronger than before thanks to state-of-the-art Carbon eXact tubing and G-lock Ultra leg locks, their new big foot ensures rock-solid footing on any surface while providing smooth movement with its integrated ball; the new models also feature enhanced aesthetics and improved sizing selection.
    Series 4 Gitzo Monopod models (top leg diameter 37.0mm) replace the previous Series 5 models; the slimmer top tube contributes to an easier grip and lighter weight, while ensuring rigidity from the stiff Carbon eXact tubes.

    Underscoring Gitzo’s dedication to groundbreaking excellence, the refinements to the new Systematic tripods and Monopods – in terms of strength, stability and rigidity, safety and security, set-up speed, ease of use and ergonomics – set new paradigms in the photography equipment market.

    Gitzo photography products are superbly engineered to withstand the roughest handling. Precision assembly, high quality materials and fine control are distinguishing qualities that represent a market leader that has been unsurpassed for over half a century.

    Pricing for the new Systematic tripods starts at £649.95. The new Systematic monopods are available from £214.95.

    More information on the new Gitzo Systematic tripod and Monopod ranges can be found online at www.gitzo.co.uk/tripods-systematic

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Photoshop Elements 15 and Premiere Elements 15 released

    Adobe has updated its beginner-friendly Photoshop Elements and Premiere editing software. Elements 15 adds touchscreen editing, batch adjustments, enhanced search function and a tool to edit facial features.

    New Smart Tags help identify key features in images and are applied automatically – search for ‘dog’ or ‘birthday’ and Adobe claims its enhanced search will identify these photos in your collection. Borrowing from Photoshop CC’s face-aware liquify technology, Elements also gets a tool to help turn frowns into smiles and fix squinting eyes. Quick Edit and Organizer modes gain touch compatibility, and it’s now possible to apply ‘instant fix’ edits to a batch of photos.

    Premiere Elements 15, Adobe’s entry-level video editing software, offers the de-haze tool already offered by Photoshop CC and Elements and also gains touch functionality. A few other feature updates are also included, like the ability to create photo/video collages and a Remix feature to help match music and video clip length.

    Visit Adobe’s website to learn more about Photoshop Elements and Premiere Elements 15.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Sigma 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art real world sample gallery

    Hot on the heels of its Photokina announcement, the Sigma 12-24mm F4 Art arrived on our doorstep last week, meaning it was time to shoot wide. Just 1mm shy of matching the world’s widest rectilinear zoom, the Canon 11-24mm F4 L, the Sigma gives a large amount of the Canon’s focal range for a much lower price of $ 1599. To see if its images are as tempting as the specs are, we wasted no time getting it out in the real world mounted on the new Canon 5D Mark IV, the 5DSR, and a Sony a7R II with Sigma’s MC11 adaptor.  

    See our Sigma 12-24 F4 Art real world samples

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Phase One XF IQ3 100MP update adds electronic shutter

    Danish medium-format manufacturer Phase One has released a firmware update for its XF camera system that introduces an electronic shutter function to its IQ3 100MP digital back as well as a menu screen for controlling Profoto flash heads via the Air Remote TTL radio communication network.

    This will be the third firmware update for the XF body since it was launched. The benefit of the electronic shutter is that it will be possible to record images with the 100MP sensor without involving any moving parts in the camera. Although previously the XF offered a mirror-up mode, the shutter unit still created some vibration during the exposure that could diminish the resolution of the final image. Phase One says that exposures of between one hour and 1/4000sec will be possible in electronic shutter mode.

    The new firmware also adjusts the function of the Profoto Air radio trigger that is built into the XF body. While previously the trigger just controlled when wirelessly connected flashes fired, now users are also able to control output directly from the camera’s back using a TTL metering system. This allows users to control and monitor up to six groups of heads directly from the back’s own display. The update has also brought an information panel that demonstrates how the flash duration and output curve correspond to the camera’s shutter synchronization so photographers can ensure they are optimizing the timing of the shutter to make the most of the period during which the flash is lit.

    The company has altered its 5-year warranty terms too, abolishing the limit on shutter actuations – presumably as the body no longer needs to trigger the mechanical shutter to make an exposure. Phase One has also officially introduced the vertical grip it had displayed ‘unofficially’ at Photokina. The V-Grip offers almost the same right hand control dials as the body’s own grip including, obviously, a shutter release button in the same place. The grip will be available from November at $ 1490, and the new firmware has been released today as a free download. For more information see the Phase One website and the firmware download page.

    Press release:

    Phase One Releases XF Camera System Feature Update #3

    Adding new functionality, new hardware and improved warranty

    COPENHAGEN, Oct. 3, 2016 – Phase One, the world’s leading medium format camera system provider, today released a major XF Camera System update. Available now and free to all XF Camera System owners, this update demonstrates Phase One’s commitment to the continuous upgrade and improvement of the XF camera platform.

    Feature Update #3 greatly advances the features of the world’s first full frame medium format CMOS sensor. The IQ3 100MP system now includes complete Electronic Shutter integration — the world’s first in medium format photography. With the ability to capture images without a single moving component, the IQ3 100MP is now even more versatile.

    The update adds significant improvements for studio and flash photography applications such as advanced flash controls with the in-camera Profoto Air Remote enabling Profoto TTL metering. Further, a post capture Flash Analysis Tool has been added to ensure unparalleled control.

    Phase One also today introduced the new XF V-Grip, providing advanced ergonomic capabilities and control options.

    The world’s best warranty becomes even better
    Phase One’s dedication to product quality, in combination with the maturity of the XF Camera System, provides professional photographers with the assurance they demand.

    “All XF IQ3 Camera Systems come with a five-year warranty that now includes unlimited shutter actuations, a warranty unprecedented in our industry,” says Stefan Sandor, VP Marketing and Product Management, Phase One.

    Phase One’s XF Camera System Feature Update #3 introduces

    Advanced Studio Hardware, Controls and Workflow:

    Flash Analysis and Rear Curtain Trim
    Review all aspects of the flash output just after the capture, directly on the XF Camera System and offset the flash sync to meet your requirements;

    Profoto Air
    Full functionality of the Profoto Air for up to six groups, now built directly into the XF Camera System;

    Profoto AirTTL
    Integrated with the XF Camera System’s Auto Focus sensor to provide active feedback and deliver accurate exposures with every capture, no matter the variables.

    V-Grip for the XF Camera System
    Providing advanced ergonomic capabilities and control options, the XF Camera System V-Grip ensures simplicity as well as dynamic improvements to handheld workflow applications.

    Advanced Technology, Tools and Customization:

    Electronic Shutter for the IQ3 100MP ?
    The IQ3 100MP now includes complete Electronic Shutter integration. With the ability to capture images without a single moving component, the IQ3 100MP is even more versatile.

    Additional New Customization and Workflow Options
    With Feature Update #3, the XF Camera System now includes Icon Control, Create, Load & Save System Setup, Advanced Tool Options for sequence tools, as well as several other new improvements and features.

    For all the details, please go to: www.phaseone.com/feature-update-3 or book a demo on: www.phaseone.com/demo

    Availability and Pricing

    Firmware for the XF Camera System Feature Update #3 is free and available for download here: www.phaseone.com/feature-update-3

    New XF V-Grip will be shipping in November and is available through Phase One photography partners worldwide: www.phaseone.com/partners?

    Prices for Phase One XF V-Grip – 1,490 USD

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Aura is a next generation digital picture frame

    Digital picture frames were all the rage around 2006, but since then have pretty much been relegated to the bargain basement. Instead of focusing on innovation, new features and better performance, frame makers decided to compete on price. As a result digital frames have always been regarded a low-quality product and the gadget community quickly lost interest.

    The team behind the new Aura frame is planning to change that and make the digital picture frame once again a product that technophiles across the globe are lusting for, with a design that combines a high-quality display with all sorts of digital bells and whistles. The Aura’s screen is pretty much identical to the 2048 x 1536 pixel Retina display in the iPad and the acrylic frame, which is edged in anodized aluminum, will be available in either ivory with rose gold trim or black with charcoal trim. 

    Premium finish aside, the Aura frame stands out thanks to its features. There is an accompanying mobile app for syncing manually created albums to the device. Alternatively, the app offers facial recognition and can be set to upload all images that have specific persons in them. There is also a filter that gets rid of blurry images, duplicates and those where subjects have their eyes closed. It even makes sure to only use images that crop well for the frame’s 4:3 format.

    Of course you can invite others to contribute to an album as well. In addition the Aura also comes with a set of sensors that can detect if you are in the room in order to make sure you always see a new image when you enter.

    The sensors are also used for the gesture control feature which lets you scroll through images from a distance. The Aura frame is not available yet but its makers just secured $ 6M Series A round funding from Spark Capital, so chances are you’ll be able to buy one in the nearer future. The projected retail price is $ 400 and you can register your email to be notified at launch. Watch the video below for a better idea how Aura works.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Pentax K1 firmware update adds electronic shutter in live view mode

    Pentax has released new firmware for its flagship K1 full frame camera that includes the ability for users to select electronic shutter shooting for the first time. Firmware version 1.3 adds a live view Electronic Shutter option to the menu system that the company says avoids the vibrations caused by mechanical shutter actions immediately prior to the exposure of the sensor. There are some limitations however, as the shake reduction system can’t operate during electronic shutter exposures, HDR mode won’t work, external flash units won’t be triggered and the drive is limited to single shot or multiple exposure modes.

    Other functions added by this update include the ability to shoot square images and to record only two frames (Off and Type 2) when using the anti-aliasing filter simulation bracketing feature. Previously, three frames had to be recorded in a sequence that included Type 1 as well. A general ‘bracketing cancel’ Off option has also been added to the camera menu under the BKT function.

    Pentax says that other more general stability issues are fixed too with this update. To read more and to download the firmware see the Pentax website.

    Release information:

    Release of the function expand Firmware version 1.30 for PENTAX K-1

    RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce the release of the function expanding Firmware version 1.30 for PENTAX K-1 digital SLR camera (launched on April, 2016) on September 29, 2016.

    The function expand firmware is to add new function or increase number of setting for currently used PENTAX K-1 camera, so that improve the function, easy handling and update to the latest function.

    New Enhanced Functions

    *The Electronic Shutter at Live View mode
    The Electronic Shutter can be selected at the Menu to reduce camera shake from the mechanical shutter when shooting with Live View mode.

    *Add the [1:1] format at the Crop mode
    Added and selectable [Square format (1:1)] size at the Crop mode.

    *Add [2 frames bracketing] for the [AA Filter Simulator bracketing]
    Addition to the current [3 frames bracketing (OFF, TYPE1, TYPE2)], the [2 frames bracketing (OFF, TYPE2)] is added and selectable for the [AA Filter Simulator bracketing]

    *Smart Function
    At the [BKT] setting, the bracketing range [±0 (=single frame)] can be selected.

    [Others]
    *Improved stability for general performance.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • PowerVision’s PowerEye pro-grade cinematography drone goes up for pre-order

    PowerVision has announced the launch of global pre-orders for its PowerEye professional-grade cinematography drone. This drone features Dual Viewing for both subject matter view (SMV) and first person view (FPV) streaming at the same time, something made possible via a gimbal-mounted camera and another camera housed on the drone’s nose. PowerEye also features PowerVision’s Object Detection technology.

    Two different PowerEye drone models are being offered: the ‘PowerEye Professional’ and the ‘PowerEye Thermal.’ The Professional model features a 4K-capable 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor that offers Raw DNG capture and Panasonic Lumix G 14mm F2.5 ASPH lens while the Thermal model has a switchable thermal/natural light camera with two different lenses and sensors. Operators toggle between the natural and thermal cameras using the PowerEye App.

    Overall, PowerEye weighs 3.9kg / 8.7lbs including its propellers and battery; the design includes 4-point landing and liftoff and collapsible rotors and legs for a folded transport size of 340 x 285 x 296mm / 13 x 11 x 11.6 inches. The battery claims a flight time of up to 29.5 minutes on a charge, about 10 minutes longer than the DJI Inspire 1, and operators can control the drone from distances up to 5km / 3.1 miles. The drone’s max payload is up to 3kg / 6.6lbs. The full spec sheet is available here.

    The PowerEye Professional is available for pre-order now for $ 3,988, which includes the Panasonic camera, base station, the battery and charger, propellers + an extra set, a rolling case, and a remote control + an extra remote control for pre-orders specifically. The thermal camera variant is not currently listed on PowerVision’s website, however, and pricing is unclear.

    Via: PowerVision

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)