360Photography

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  • Canon announces new flagship EOS C700 cinema camera

    Canon has announced a new addition to its Cinema EOS line of professional cinematography cameras, the EOS C700, which appears to be the first camera from Canon to leverage the global shutter CMOS sensor technology the company revealed yesterday. The camera will be available in three variants: the C700, C700 PL, and C700 GS PL.

    The EOS C700 and EOS C700 PL feature a Super 35mm 4.5K sensor with wide dynamic range, which Canon says extends to 15 stops of latitude. The EOS 700 GS PL features a Super 35mm 4K sensor with global shutter. Global shutter is a desirable feature for filmmakers as it allows the camera to capture data from the entire sensor at one time. In contrast, most CMOS sensors capture data using what is known as a rolling shutter, in which data is captured line by line as it comes off the sensor, and which is responsible for the ‘Jello’ effect often seen in digital video.

    All three cameras support Canon’s standard Log gamma profiles (Canon Log3, Canon Log2, and CanonLog), and support frame rates up to 4K/60p and 2K/240p. Canon has also added the ability to record footage straight to Apple ProRes, a common editing format, in addition to Raw data capture and Canon’s own XF-AVC compressed codec. Additionally, these are the first Cinema EOS cameras to include a de-squeeze feature for live monitoring when shooting with anamorphic lenses.

    Owners won’t be locked into a lens mount or sensor; the C700 will allow users to switch between EF and PL mounts, as well as between the standard CMOS sensor and the global shutter CMOS sensor. (Though this work will need to be done at a Canon service facility.) Canon gives users incentive to pair the camera with EF lenses as these will make it possible to take advantage of Dual Pixel autofocus, however those who choose PL mount versions will get compatibility with Cooke/i metadata communication technology.

    Finally, Canon has partnered with Codex to provide a fully integrated, no cable workflow option with the Codex CDX-36150 recorder.

    These look like impressive tools, and they come with a price tag to match. The EOS C700 and C700 PL are expected to go on sale in December with a list price of $ 35,000, while the EOS C700 GS PL should be available in January (2017) with a list price of $ 38,000.

    Press Release:

    Canon U.S.A., Inc. INTRODUCES NEW FLAGSHIP EOS C700 CINEMA CAMERA*

    Ideal for Major 4K Cinema, Television, and On-Demand Streaming Productions

    MELVILLE, N.Y., September 1, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the next step in the evolution of the Cinema EOS family of professional cinematography products with the new EOS C700, EOS C700 PL and EOS C700 GS PL cinema cameras 

    Featuring a completely new, customizable, modular design, the EOS C700 meets the demands of today’s productions – from feature films to documentaries to episodic dramas. The EOS C700 and EOS C700 PL cameras feature a Super 35mm 4.5K sensor1 with wide dynamic range, and can be ideal for productions requiring 4K UHD TV or 4K DCI cinema deliverables. The EOS C700 GS PL features a Super 35mm 4K sensor with a global shutter to enable the distortion-free capture of subjects moving at high speeds. In addition to supporting the earlier XF-AVC2 recording format, the cameras also support Apple® ProRes.

    Recognizing that customers today demand flexibility and the ability to respond to the changing needs of productions, the EOS C700 allows users to convert between EF mount and PL mounts, and between a standard CMOS image sensor and a global shutter CMOS image sensor at Canon service facilities3. The EF lens mount provides compatibility with Canon’s diverse lineup of over 70 interchangeable EF lenses as well as enabling use of Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. While the EOS C700 PL and EOS C700 GS PL allow use of industry-standard PL lenses and compatibility with Cooke /i metadata communication technology.

    For those wanting to shoot and deliver High Dynamic Range (HDR)4 content, the EOS C700 and EOS C700 PL are ideal – providing 15 stops of latitude5, Canon’s proprietary Log Gammas (Canon Log3, Canon Log2 and Canon Log) and renowned color science. Additionally, these cameras seamlessly integrate with Canon’s professional 4K displays (DP-V2420, DP-V2410 or DP-V1770) for on-set color management and review that conforms to SMPTE ST 20846 standards of HDR display.

    To complement these powerful new acquisition tools, Canon has turned to its trusted partner Codex to provide a fully-integrated (no cables) recording and workflow option. The combination of the EOS C700 camera with the optional Codex CDX-36150 recorder allows for high-speed 4.5K RAW recording at up to 100FPS, 4K RAW at up to 120FPS, 4K ProRes at up to 60FPS, 2K ProRes at up to 240FPS and XF-AVC at up to 60FPS.

    Canon’s new EOS C700, EOS C700 PL and EOS C700 GS PL are the first Cinema EOS cameras to support anamorphic shooting by utilizing a “de-squeeze” function for monitoring7, making possible the creation of images with the 2.39:1 aspect ratio typical of cinema productions. Furthermore, enabling Full HD high-frame-rate recording at a maximum of 240 fps (crop8), the camera enables smooth playback, even when slowed down, for great emotional visual expression. 

    Along with the announcement of these cameras, Canon is also introducing optional accessories OLED 1920×1080 Electronic View Finder EVF-V70, Remote Operation Unit OU-700, Shoulder Support Unit SU-15, Shoulder Style Grip Unit SG-1 and B4 mount adapters MO-4E/MO-4P. 

    The EOS C700 and EOS C700 PL are currently expected to go on sale in December 2016, while the EOS C700 GS PL is currently expected to go on sale in January 2017. The EOS C700 and EOS C700 PL will have a list of $ 35,000.00 each** and the EOS C700 GS PL will have a list price of $ 38,000.00**.  

    †Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

    *This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained. 

    **Availability, pricing and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

    1 4.5K RAW recording will be supported following a firmware update (currently scheduled to be released at the end of March 2017, see chart below).

    2 Canon’s proprietary video format that efficiently compresses video data.

    3 Conversions will incur a fee and will be handled by Canon service facilities.

    4 High Dynamic Range refers to a technique that enhances the contrast between light and dark values (the dynamic range) of an image.

    5 15 stops achievable in EOS C700 and EOS C700 PL models in Canon Log2 mode. EOS C700 GS PL achieves 14 stops.

    6 The wide dynamic range imaging standard recommended by the Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers.

    7 A lens that enables shooting with landscape-orientation compression and makes possible a characteristic blur effect.

    8 A shooting function that creates a pseudo-telephoto effect using a portion of the sensor area.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Sony announces Xperia XZ flagship device with triple-sensor camera

    Sony has announced its new top-end device in the Xperia Z line at IFA in Berlin and in the camera department the new model comes with what the company calls ‘triple sensor’ technology. In practical terms this means that the Sony IMX300 1/2.3” 23MP image sensor with on-sensor phase detection is accompanied by a laser that measures the distance to the subject and improves AF speed and accuracy in low light; and an RGBC-IR sensor that measures the color values of a scene in order to fine-tune the white balance system. The hybrid AF-system is also predictive and can track subjects in motion.

    The Sony G lens comes with a 24mm equivalent focal length and an F2.0 aperture. In video mode the camera can record footage in 4K resolution and the Xperia XZ is also the first device on which Sony has implemented 5-axis electronic video stabilization. At the front there is a 13MP 1/3″ sensor with F2.0 aperture and 1080p video, specifications that would have been worthy of a main camera not too long ago.

    The Android 6.01 system is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chipset and 3GB of RAM. 32 or 64GB of internal storage are expandable via microSD card. Intelligent battery management means you are getting as much time as possible out of the 2900 mAh battery which also supports quick-charging. With a 1080p resolution and 5.2” diagonal the display specifications have not changed from previous high-end Xperia devices.

    All the technology is wrapped up in an 8.1mm thin metal body with rounded edges, that is water and dust tight (IP65/68). A fingerprint sensor has been integrated into the power button for added security. The Sony Xperia XZ doesn’t offer any huge improvements over previous devices in the series but looks like a solid update. It will be available in Europe from October for €699 (approximately $ 780), there is no word on availability in other regions yet.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Sony Xperia X Compact offers high-end camera in smaller format

    Along with the Xperia XZ, Sony has launched the Xperia X Compact. It’s aimed at users who want a powerful camera in a compact body but can live with a slightly less powerful chipset.

    The X Compact comes with the same 23MP ‘triple sensor’ main camera with laser-AF and color sensor as the Xperia XZ, but doesn’t offer 4K video and uses a front camera with a lower 5MP resolution, compared to the XZ’s 13MP. Like previous Sony Compact models the new device has a 4.6” display with 720p HD resolution, putting it in direct competition with Apple’s iPhone 6s. The Sony is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 chipset and features 3GB of RAM in conjunction with 32GB of internal storage. The latter is expandable via a microSD slot. Power is provided by a 2700 mAh battery, that, like on the larger model, supports smart battery management and quick charging.

    The power button doubles as fingerprint reader to ensure secure device access and online shopping. In contrast to the Xperia XZ the Compact model comes with a plastic body that does not feature any environmental protection. However, this is reflected in pricing. The Xperia Z Compact will be available in Europe from September for a more affordable €449 (approximately $ 560).

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Huawei Nova phones offer 4K video and OIS at mid-tier pricing

    Chinese manufacturer Huawei has taken IFA 2016 as an opportunity to launch a completely new series of devices. Nominally the Nova and Nova Plus are mid-range smartphones, but considering the premium looks and some of the camera specifications they could easily be mistaken for top-end models.

    The Nova’s metal body features what Huawei calls a multi-curve design, 2.5D glass screens and diamond cut edges. The back plate comes with a brushed hairline finish and at 1.8mm the bezels of the 5″ full-HD display are very thin. Inside, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 chipset is coupled with 3GB of RAM and a ‘high-density design’ of the electronic components means that the battery capacity could be increased by 20%. 3020 mAh sounds like a lot for a device of this size and, according to Huawei, should be good for two days of normal use.

    Also included is a USB Type-C connector and fingerprint reader. In the camera department the Nova features a 12MP BSI CMOS sensor with 1.25 um pixel size and on-sensor phase detection. The lens is constructed from six elements and comes with optical image stabilization. In video mode, the camera is capable of recording footage at 4K resolution. The front camera features an 8MP sensor and a range of ‘beautification functions’.

    The Nova Plus is very similar but comes with a larger 5.5″ display, a 16MP image sensor with 1.12 um pixel size and a 3340 mAh battery. The Nova Plus will be priced at €429 in Europe. The Nova is 30 Euros cheaper. Pricing information for other regions has not been provided yet.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Huawei’s MediaPad M3 is a high-end media consumption device

    With the MediaPad M3, Huawei has launched an interesting new option for photographers who like showing images or videos to clients or friends on a tablet. An 8.4″ IPS display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels displays sharp images and an ‘eye-care’ mode filters blue light to put less strain on your eyes while viewing the screen. Sound is played back through stereo speakers that are powered by an AKM soundchip and Harman Kardon engineered surround sound technology.

    The Android operating system is powered by Huawei’s own Kirin 950 octa-core chipset and 4GB of RAM. Buyers can choose from 32 or 64GB storage versions and there is also a microSD expansion slot. Huawei claims the 5100 mAh battery is good for 11 hours of video playback and the fingerprint sensor at the front doubles as a navigation tool. Tap and swipe gestures let you use it as a back or home button and for scrolling.

    The Media Pad M3 is not meant to be a capture device but, just in case, 8MP cameras are available at front and back. All the components are wrapped up in a sleek-looking and only 7.1mm thin metal unibody. The device will be available in Europe, starting at €349 (approximately $ 390) for the 32GB version. No information on pricing in other regions has been provided yet.  

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Canon announces the XC15 4K video camera

    The Canon XC15 camera with included MA-400 microphone adapter, which provides support for XLR inputs.

    Canon has announced the new XC15 camera, a 4K UHD camcorder in a compact body.

    Though it’s clearly a follow-up to the company’s XC10 model, introduced in 2015, Canon is positioning the XC15 very differently. When the XC10 was announced Canon presented it as a camera that could bridge the gap for those who needed to shoot both video and stills, emphasizing its 12MP still capture capability. In contrast, the press release for the XC15 doesn’t even mention still photos, instead positioning the camera as a high quality, compact 4K camcorder oriented at news and video production, possibly as a B-camera to a Cinema EOS model. Canon hasn’t yet provided detailed specifications, but like the XC10 it uses a 1” CMOS sensor and a 10x optical zoom lens, which appears to be the same 24.1mm-241mm F2.8-5.6 (equivalent) lens found on the XC10.

    It appears that Canon is making an effort to respond to one very specific area of feedback from many of its video users: the need for XLR microphone support. The camera ships with Canon’s MA-400 microphone adapter that provides XLR-input compatibility.

    The XC15 will be available in September for $ 3000.00

    Press Release:

    Canon’s New Lightweight, Compact XC15 4K UHD Video Camcorder Ideal for News and Video Production

    XLR Microphone Input Provides Audio Support in Addition to High-Quality 4K UHD Video Capture

    MELVILLE, N.Y., September 1, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the XC15 4K Video Camcorder, a 4K UHD digital video camcorder for professional use that achieves high-image quality with a lightweight, compact body.

    The new Canon XC15, which builds on the XC10 4K UHD digital video camcorder announced in April 2015, enables shooting with an external microphone through an XLR input and features the selection of visual-expression “Look” modes, including modes that allow it to match the look of other Canon professional cameras, making it ideal for use as a “B”-camera as well as for media and video-content productions.

    The Canon XC15 ships with the MA-400 microphone adapter that, when attached, enables shooting with XLR-input microphones used in a wide range of media and content-creation applications. As a result, the camcorder supports the production of content that combines both high-image quality and high-sound quality with reduced noise. The MA-400 is also compatible with the EOS C300 Mark II camera.

    Thanks to its high-sensitivity one-inch CMOS sensor and DIGIC DV 5 image processing platform with high calculation-processing power, the new XC15 is capable of capturing high-image quality and low-noise 4K UHD video. Additionally, the camcorder features a compact, lightweight body design, measuring approximately 5.0 x 4.1 x 4.8 inches (WxHxD) and weighs approximately 2.1 pounds while also sporting a 10x optical zoom lens ¹, which facilitates shooting in confined spaces and environments that demand mobility.

    The Canon XC15 4K UHD professional video camcorder is scheduled to be available in September 2016 for a list price of $ 3,000.00.* For more information, please visit usa.canon.com

    † Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

    * Availability, prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

    All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

    ¹ Body and Lens Only

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Leica adds 60mm F2.8 macro to TL lens lineup

    Leica has announced a 60mm F2.8 macro lens for its TL-mount cameras, which is just the T (Typ 701) at this point.

    The company was very short on details about the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm F2.8 ASPH, aside from saying that it will have a 1:1 reproduction ratio and will arrive this Fall in black or silver. When mounted on the APS-C ‘T’, the lens will be equivalent to 90mm.

    This will be the sixth lens for the TL mount.

    Press release:

    Leica Announces Newest Addition to the T Lens Portfolio: the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm

    All future lenses for the Leica T camera system will be marketed under a new name: “TL”

    September 1, 2016 – Beginning today, a new prime lens is available for the Leica T camera system – the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. Considered to be the reference lens in the APS-C segment, this lens delivers macro exposures with a reproduction ratio of 1:1 and impresses with best imaging performance.

    Like the Leica Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH., the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. is available in both black and silver.

    With this new addition, the lens portfolio of the Leica T camera system now offers a total of six lenses – including three prime lenses and three zoom lenses – that together offer a range of focal lengths for every photographic situation. The two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23 mm f/2 ASPH. and the Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH, are classic focal lengths for reportage photography. The APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. complements them ideally as a lens for finely detailed close-up photography. Finally, the three compact zoom lenses, the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11–23 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56 mm f/3.5–5.6 ASPH., and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55–135 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., cover an entire range of focal lengths equivalent to 17 to 200 mm in 35 mm format and deliver outstanding images with rich contrast from corner to corner of the frame.

    As the Leica T and the new Leica SL share the same L bayonet mount, the name ‘TL’ will be implemented for all new Leica T lenses moving forward. Thanks to the flexibility offered by the TL-Lenses for a wide range of applications on cameras with the L-Bayonet, Leica once again showcases the company’s fundamental principle of system-compatibility and sustainability and offers users access to an even wider portfolio of Leica products

    All Leica TL-Lenses impress with outstanding imaging performance at lengths that range from infinity to their closest focusing distance and deliver images with the unique Leica look and bokeh. Designed by the optical engineering specialists in Wetzlar, the lenses all offer the exceptional imaging performance for which Leica lenses are renowned. The combination of optical and technical expertise and the use of only the finest materials guarantee consistent quality and reliability in every situation.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Throwback Thursday: the Samsung NV10

    Pretty? Yes. Well-built? Yes. Image quality? Ehhh…

    In 2007, I was chiefly concerned with three things: fixing whatever had recently broken on my 1980 Datsun 210, scouring the electronics section of the local Goodwill in an endless quest for a louder stereo, and finding older computer games that my home-built PC would play acceptably well. Despite where I’ve ended up, it turns out that photography wasn’t really near the top of my priorities list.

    Regardless, I was dead-set on spending every penny of savings from my job at Dairy Queen to take a trip to Europe with three friends after our high school graduation, and my grandmother had offered to help me buy a new camera for the trip. That’s where this Samsung NV10 comes in.

    It may look a little odd today, but Samsung’s ‘Smart Touch’ technology actually made for a responsive and engaging way to manipulate the camera’s controls and settings before the advent of affordable touch screens.

    The Samsung NV10, which we reviewed back in 2006, is a compact camera with a 35-105mm equiv. F2.8-5.1 zoom lens, a 10.3MP 1/1.8″ CCD sensor, and Samsung’s ‘Smart Touch’ user interface. Most importantly to the mini-me at Omega Photo in Bellevue, WA, it was small – it could just about fit in a jeans pocket. It was smaller than the hand-me-down Canon PowerShot A70 I had used during high school when my Samsung VGA flip-phone wouldn’t cut it. I liked the NV10’s all-metal, all-black design, and though I really had no idea why I needed the option, it offered at least some control over exposure parameters.

    So despite the best efforts of my dad, who wanted me to get that absolute behemoth that was the Canon PowerShot S3 IS for a similar price (my 18-year-old self couldn’t fathom why anyone would want to carry a camera around his or her neck), I opted for the svelte little Samsung. After some time with the NV10, I decided – in typical American teenage fashion – to ignore nagging suspicions that my dad had been right all along.

    The NV10 produced fairly clean, punchy files so long as there was enough light. I don’t know why I was making that face, nor why I felt I needed to stage a photograph of my car on this lawn. Samsung NV10 @ 35mm equiv. ISO 100, 1/250 sec, F2.8.

    Photo by Erin Bynum

    So, what did I find to be positive about the NV10 besides its design, pocketability and control scheme? Unfortunately, not much.

    As Simon stated in our full review, the NV10 produced files that were excessively saturated and overly contrasty. This often led to clipped shadows and highlights, and though you wouldn’t have expected a Raw option on this camera, there were no options to adjust the JPEG output at all. The battery life was rated at an unimpressive 180 shots and the lens’ wide-angle equivalent left me wanting something a bit wider at the time (today, I find that 35mm equivalent is wide enough). One interesting tid-bit? It did at least support USB charging.

    You want punchy colors? You got ’em. Samsung NV10 @ 35mm equiv. ISO 100, 1/200 sec, F7.1.

    Photo by Carey Rose

    Of course, this is a point-and-shoot compact camera from 2006, and as such, has a very limited ISO range. You could push it up to ISO 1000, but things really started to fall apart around ISO 400. The problem there was that in anything but reasonably bright light, the camera would drag the shutter, likely resulting in a photo that was blurred and noisy, and the slow aperture at the telephoto end of the zoom range meant you were sticking to the wide end if you wanted to avoid using the flash.

    Can’t skip the cat photo. Check out that noise at ISO 400, and the handheld blur from an over-caffeinated teenager. I’m probably hitting the minimum focus distance without macro mode as well. Samsung NV10 @ 35mm equiv. ISO 400, 1/20 sec, F2.8.

    Photo by Carey Rose

    Despite all of this, I managed to convince myself that the Samsung NV10 was fine at the time. In hindsight, I was wrong. Full disclosure, though: my limited knowledge of photographic basics hurt my experience with the camera at least as much as the camera’s limited capabilities. Someone doing a “Pro Tog, Cheap Camera” challenge with the NV10 would likely turn out some good results, but they’d better keep an eye on the ISO value.

    To round things up, then, this was a camera for my graduation trip to Europe, and therefore you may be wondering where all those European photos might be. Well, I ended up losing the camera on a train in Germany, and therefore losing around 600 thoroughly mediocre photos. Turns out, my dad was right – I needed a camera that would stay comfortably slung around my neck.

    I got back home from my trip, saved up some money and bought that PowerShot S3 IS, and never looked back.

    Naches, WA. Samsung NV10 @ 93mm equiv. ISO 200, 1/200 sec, F12.3.

    Everyone makes mistakes. Do you have a camera that you realized you bought too hastily, or have even regretted purchasing? Did you keep it, or trade it out for something else? Let us know in the comments!

    Samsung NV10 real-world sample gallery

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Tamron announces 2nd generation SP 150-600mm Di VC USD ‘G2’

    Tamron has announced a new version of its popular 150-600mm telezoom – the SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD G2. The ‘G2’ stands for second generation, reflecting several improvements to the design.

    These improvements include more effective image stabilization (to a claimed 4.5 stops of benefit), faster AF speed and compatibility with Tamron’s ‘TAP-in’ Console, for lens firmware updates and customization. A ‘Flex Zoom Lock’ mechanism has also been added to keep the lens barrel fixed at any focal length. Flourine coating has been added to the front lens element, and the entire lens barrel offers greater moisture resistance.

    The SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 will sell for $ 1399 and will go on sale in Japan starting September 23rd in Nikon and Canon mounts, arriving in the US soon after. A Sony A-mount version will follow later. A pair of new teleconverters designed for use with the 150-600mm have also been announced.

    Press release

    INTRODUCING THE PINNACLE OF ULTRA-TELEPHOTO ZOOMS WITH ADVANCED FEATURES, ENHANCED PERFORMANCE, AND IMPROVED ERGONOMICS

    New generation “G2” lens boasts faster AF speed and enhanced VC

    SP 150-600mm Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)

    September 1, 2016, Commack, New York – Tamron, a leading manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, announces the launch of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022). This second generation “G2” lens builds upon the success of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A011), which launched in December 2013 and continues to successfully meet photographers’ needs in the ultra-telephoto category. The new G2 version was developed to provide superior optical performance with today’s high resolution DSLRs and to add improvements to several features including speed and accuracy of AF and VC (Vibration Compensation). Also, several new features have been added: FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism, Fluorine Coating and optional teleconverters. The new lens delivers outstanding performance and a luxurious, upscale appearance, including a metal lens barrel.

    Delivery of the new lens in Canon and Nikon mounts will start on September 23 in the Japanese market and soon thereafter in the U.S. market (Sony A-mount to be delivered at a later date) at a price of $ 1399.

    PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

    1. Optical design refreshed to achieve even higher performance
    Three LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements completely eliminate axial and transverse chromatic aberrations. The design also features an upgraded optical construction (21 elements in 13 groups) and leverages improvements in manufacturing technology. As a result, the lens delivers high resolution, improved sharpness and overall better performance.

    2. Tamron’s sophisticated eBAND Coating for eliminating ghosting and flare
    eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating is a nano-structured layer deployed on the lens element surface. In addition to regular anti-reflection coatings, eBAND Coating offers higher light transmission and significant improvement in anti-reflection characteristics, especially against angulated incident rays. Combined with BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coatings, flare and ghosting are reduced to imperceptible levels.

    3. MOD reduced to provide optimum tele-macro photography
    Tamron’s advanced manufacturing technology has made it possible to reduce the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) to 86.6 in (2.2m), compared to 106.3 in (2.7m) for Model A011, and has allowed for the wonders of tele-macro photography with its 1:3.9 Maximum Magnification Ratio.

    4. AF speed is faster and much more responsive with moving subjects
    The Model A022 is equipped with a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ring-type motor that delivers excellent responsiveness and control. AF speed is significantly improved from the current model, and it enables accurate high-speed focus even when capturing moving subjects. When shooting with AF, the Full-time Manual Focus override allows you to instantly make fine-focusing adjustments manually, without having to switch between modes.

    5. VC performance is now 4.5 stops and offers 3 modes optimized for different situations
    The VC (Vibration Compensation) effectiveness is equivalent to 4.5 stops, based on image stabilization performance levels established by CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) when using VC MODE 3. Model A022 now has three types of VC modes, and it is possible to choose the optimum VC mode according to the situation for taking a photograph, such as when panning.

    • VC MODE 1 is the standard mode that strikes a great balance between the stability of the viewfinder image and the stabilization effects.
    • VC MODE 2 is exclusively used for panning.
    • VC MODE 3 prioritizes the stabilization of the captured images and forgoes the stabilization of the viewfinder image.

    A new VC Mode can be programmed with the optional TAMRON TAP-in Console™. You can overwrite VC Mode 1 with a new VC Mode that allows stabilization to be engaged constantly for videography purposes. In this mode, the LCD screen is used.

    6. New FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism enables locking of the zoom ring at any position
    The FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism quickly locks or unlocks the zoom at any position simply by sliding the zoom ring. Photographers can shoot from any angle without the zoom extending unintentionally. Additionally, the lens features the conventional Zoom Lock switch to prevent unwanted barrel extension during transportation.

    7. Fluorine Coating and Moisture-Resistant Construction for a more user-friendly lens
    The front surface of the lens element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that is water- and oil-repellent. The lens surface is easier to wipe clean and is less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, dust, moisture and fingerprints. For greater protection when shooting outdoors, leak-proof seals throughout the lens barrel help protect your equipment.

    8. Electromagnetic diaphragm system now used for Nikon-mount lenses
    An electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in Nikon-mount lenses[1]. More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by a motor through electronic pulse signals.

    9. Lightweight and easy-to-hold tripod mount is compatible with an Arca-Swiss style quick release plate
    A new textured grip and Arca-Swiss style tripod interface enhances both speed and utility. And because the tripod mount is made of lightweight magnesium, it is much easier to carry.

    10. Compatible with TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, an optional accessory product
    The optional TAP-in Console provides a USB connection to your personal computer, enabling you to easily update your lens’s firmware as well as customize features including fine adjustments to the AF and VC.

    11. Teleconverters exclusively for the Tamron lens now developed
    Two exclusive teleconverters[2], which perfectly match the optics of the new SP 150-600mm G2 (Model A022), offer 1.4x and 2x magnification, and provide a maximum zoom range up to 1200mm. These new teleconverters extend focal length of the master lens, making it possible to take pictures in farther ultra-telephoto ranges.

    Changes in zoom range when used with SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)

      Mounted on 35mm full-frame DSLR camera Mounted on APS-C format DSLR camera
     Without teleconverter  150-600mm  Approx. 233-930mm
     With 1.4x teleconverter  210-840mm  Approx. 326-1302mm
     With 2.0x teleconverter  300-1200mm  Approx. 465-1860mm

    Changes in magnification ratio when used with SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)

      Maximum Magnification Ratio 
    Without teleconverter 1:3.9
    With 1.4x teleconverter 1:2.8
    With 2.0x teleconverter 1:2

    Available focusing mode when used with SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)

      When using viewfinder When using live view mode
     With 1.4x teleconverter AF*1*2/MF  AF*2/MF
     With 2.0x teleconverter MF   AF*2/MF

    *1 Autofocus functions normally on any camera that offers F/8 autofocusing (see your camera’s instruction manual for your camera’s ability).
    *2 Subjects with low contrast and/or luminosity values can sometimes result in out-of-focus images.

    12. Based on the rigorous quality standards worthy of the SP series, this new lens is manufactured with thorough attention to details
    For the SP series products in particular, Tamron has established rigorous design and quality standards. These standards apply to the optical design, mechanical design and the cosmetic appearance, as well as to such wide-ranging areas as the product’s robustness and improvements in various individual functions. Tamron thoroughly reviews of all of the design and manufacturing processes in order to offer products to customers with ever-higher precision and quality levels.

    For the SP 150-600mm G2 (Model A022), the optical design was refreshed, mechanical parts were improved and a new exterior design was adopted. To maximize the optical performance intrinsic to this product, Tamron improved the accuracy of component parts and increased the precision of the overall zooming mechanism.

    Design Concept
    The new design adopted for the four SP series lenses already on the market is essentially the fusion of engineering and style, the pursuit of functional beauty and craftsmanship achieved by giving meticulous attention to minute details. Using metal as the exterior material creates a high-grade design based on the concept that emphasizes “Human Touch” characteristics, and significantly improves user-friendliness. The SP models feature a novel design for the switches, easy-to-read characters, an enlarged window over the distance scale and the adoption of organic forms easy for the photographer’s fingers to hold onto.

    This design philosophy-the pursuit of functional beauty with a “Human Touch”-is applied even to the most minute details of the new SP 150-600mm G2 (Model A022) ultra-telephoto zoom. By using metal for the exterior material and adding new functions such as the FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism, the Model A022 achieves a size and weight that makes comfortable handheld shooting possible, with a slim and stylish appearance design to top it all off.

    [1]Available only with cameras compatible with the electromagnetic diaphragm (D3100, D3200, D3300, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D7000, D7100, D7200, D300, D300s, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800E, D810, D810A, D3x, D3s, D4, D4s, Df, D500, D5). (As of September 1; Tamron)
    [2] Additional information will be available on Tamron’s website at a later date.

    Optical Construction:

    MTF:

    SPECIFICATIONS

    • Model : A022
    • Focal Length : 150-600mm
    • Maximum Aperture : F/5-6.3
    • Angle of View (diagonal) : 16°25′ – 4°8′ (for full-frame format): 10°38′ – 2°40′ (for APS-C format)
    • Optical Construction: 21 elements in 13 groups
    • Minimum Object Distance : 86.6 in
    • Maximum Magnification Ratio : 1:3.9
    • Filter Size : Ø95mm
    • Maximum Diameter : Ø108.4mm
    • Length[1] : for Canon 10.2 in / for Nikon 10.1 in
    • Weight[2] : for Canon 70.9 oz / for Nikon 70.2 oz
    • Aperture Blades : 9 (circular diaphragm[3])
    • Minimum Aperture : F/32-40
    • Image Stabilization Performance: 4.5 stops (using VC Mode 3) CIPA Standards Compliant (For Canon : EOS-5D Mark III is used / For Nikon : D810 is used)
    • Standard Accessories : Lens hood, Lens caps, Lens case
    • Compatible Mounts : Canon, Nikon, Sony A-mount[4]

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

    [1]Length is the distance from the front tip of the lens to the lens mount face.
    [2] Weight includes the weight of the detachable tripod mount
    [3]The circular diaphragm stays almost perfectly circular up to two stops down from maximum aperture.
    [4]The Sony mount model does not include VC, since the bodies of Sony DSLR cameras include built-in image stabilization functionality.

    Tamron SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 specifications

    Principal specifications
    Lens type Zoom lens
    Max Format size 35mm FF
    Focal length 150–600 mm
    Image stabilization Yes (VC – Vibration Compensation)
    Lens mount Canon EF, Nikon F (FX), Sony/Minolta Alpha
    Aperture
    Maximum aperture F5
    Minimum aperture F32
    Aperture ring No
    Number of diaphragm blades 9
    Optics
    Elements 21
    Groups 13
    Special elements / coatings eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular Dependency) Coating
    Fluorine Coating
    Focus
    Minimum focus 2.70 m (106.3″)
    Maximum magnification 0.2×
    Autofocus Yes
    Motor type Ultrasonic
    Full time manual Yes
    Distance scale Yes
    DoF scale No
    Physical
    Weight 2010 g (4.43 lb)
    Diameter 106 mm (4.16″)
    Length 258 mm (10.15″)
    Filter thread 95.0 mm
    Hood supplied Yes

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Canon introduces global shutter CMOS sensor with improved dynamic range

    Canon has announced a global shutter CMOS sensor with a re-designed pixel structure aimed at boosting dynamic range. Using global shutter presents a clear benefit for the sensor’s videography applications, as it doesn’t suffer from the distortion effects that a standard ‘progressive scan’ sensor does when capturing fast-moving subjects.

    However, global shutter designs have tended to offer less dynamic range than their conventional counterparts. Canon says that the sensor’s drive system (the way it’s read out) increases the amount of light the sensor can capture before overexposing. This is combined with a more efficient pixel structure and ‘optimized internal configuration’ to reduce noise and increase sensitivity. The result should be improved dynamic range, though it’s not clear how this improved performance will compare with traditional chips of the kind that exhibit rolling shutter.

    Canon says it will explore use of the chip in measurement and industrial applications, and consider applications in video production. No details of the sensor’s size or resolution were given.

    Press release:

    Canon develops global shutter-equipped CMOS sensor that achieves expanded dynamic range through new drive method

    TOKYO, August 31, 2016—Canon Inc. today announced that it has developed a new CMOS sensor equipped with a global shutter function that, because it exposes all of the sensor’s pixels at the same time, enables the capture of distortion-free images even when shooting fast-moving objects. Employing a new signal-readout drive system and new pixel structure that significantly expands the full well capacity and reduces noise, the sensor contributes to high-image-quality video capture by making possible the realization of a wide dynamic range.

    Distortion-free image capture when shooting fast-moving objects

    Standard CMOS sensors make use of the rolling shutter method, which sequentially exposes the pixels one row at a time. Because rolling shutters can create slight discrepancies in signal-readout timing depending on the location of the pixel, images of fast-moving objects may appear distorted and flash photography may result in the occurrence of the flash band phenomenon, in which the upper and lower portions of images display different levels of brightness. Because Canon’s newly developed CMOS sensor employs a global shutter, when shooting such fast-moving objects as a rotating propeller or a speeding train, subjects are able to retain their proper form to create distortion-free images. Enabling the confirmation of object shapes with a high degree of accuracy, the sensor offers potential benefits in industrial applications, including as a sensor for use in inspection cameras.

    Wide dynamic range realized through new proprietary drive method and pixel structure

    When the newly developed CMOS sensor converts light into electrical signals and stores the signal charge in memory, the new drive system achieves a significant expansion in full well capacity. Also, because it employs a structure that efficiently captures light and each pixel incorporates an optimized internal configuration, the sensor makes possible increased sensitivity with reduced noise. The expanded full well capacity, realized through the sensor’s new drive system, and substantial reduction in noise, enabled by the new pixel structure, combine to deliver a wide dynamic range, facilitating the capture of high-image-quality, high-definition footage even when shooting scenes containing large variances in brightness.

    Canon will explore various industrial and measurement applications for the newly developed CMOS sensor and consider deploying it in the field of video production for cinema production applications, TV dramas, commercials and more.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)