360Photography

Category: Uncategorized

  • Getty Images launches ‘Virtual Reality Group’, adds 12,000 360° images

    Getty Images has announced the launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group – a new business division ‘dedicated to the creation and global distribution’ of VR content. At launch, the new group offers a library of more than 12,000 360-degree VR images, as well as ultra high-resolution ‘Gigapixel’ imagery from major events. 

    Getty Images has announced the creation of a dedicated Virtual Reality Group, which will offer more than 12,000 360-degree and ‘Gigapixel’ images at launch.

    According to Dawn Airey, CEO of Getty Images: ‘The technology is still in its infancy – as are the business models addressing how to use it – but […] we are only on the cusp of what will be a tectonic plate shift in VR’.

    Although Getty Images started adding VR and Gigapixel imagery to its collection several years ago, the launch of a dedicated business division is the latest sign that the photography industry is taking VR very seriously indeed. What do you think? Let us know. 

    Press Release:

    The launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group brings high quality VR and 360 content to everyone, satisfying the growing appetite for immersive content

    Getty Images, the world leader in visual communication, has today announced the launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group, a new business dedicated to the creation and global distribution of virtual reality (VR) content.

    The Getty Images Virtual Reality Group brings the very latest in photographic and video technology together with Getty Images’ 21 years of experience in visual storytelling, to offer exceptional content for existing and future VR platforms. The Group provides a comprehensive offering of over 12,000 premium 360 images with new content added daily, as well as high res gigapixel content from key events and venues. High quality VR production is also being offered through Getty Images Assignments.

    Quick to adapt to new image technologies, Getty images began building its collection of 360 and gigapixel imagery four years ago, pioneering the use of these techniques in its role as the Official Photographic Agency for the International Olympic Committee at the 2012 London Olympics. Fast track to today, and every Getty Images photographer at the upcoming Rio Olympic Games, will be equipped with a 360 camera. This is just one example of how Getty Images is utilizing its expertise, its access to over 130,000 annual news, sport and entertainment events and its unique relationships to generate high-end VR content, and feed the growing demand for a more immersive visual experience.

    “The technology is still in its infancy – as are the business models addressing how to use it – but we can expect to see VR become a leading tool for visual storytelling. It is anticipated that over 14 million consoles will sell this year alone (TrendForce), and we are only on the cusp of what will be a tectonic plate shift in VR” said Dawn Airey, Chief Executive Officer of Getty Images.

    Airey continues: “With the launch of the Getty Images Virtual Reality Group, we are embedding VR content technologies into the core of our business and ensuring that, as use of VR continues to grow, its users are further enhancing their experience with access to the world’s best imagery.”

    “The diverse range of 360 degree content that we produce – from the red carpet to the stadiums of the world’s biggest sporting events and the frontline of conflict – allows people to access information and experiences that were previously off limits,” said Hugh Pinney, Vice President of Editorial Content at Getty Images. “Virtual Reality is completely transforming the way we view and experience world events.”

    The Group will continue to build on Getty Images existing VR content offering, which includes 360 content captured by its award-winning news, sport and entertainment photographers as well as geo-located, interactive panoramic images from its content partner 360cities.net.

    Last month, Getty Images and Google announced their latest partnership, which sees Getty Images supplying hi-res VR content from current events around the world for Google Expeditions. Getty Images partnered with Oculus Rift in June 2015 to make its 360 imagery available for users of the Oculus platform via its 360° View by Getty Images collection.

    For more information, visit http://wherewestand.gettyimages.com/virtualrealitygroup.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • OOWA smartphone lenses use ‘free-form’ tech for improved image quality

    DynaOptics, an optical engineering company that has previously looked at bringing zoom lenses to smartphones, has launched a Kickstarter campaign for its OOWA smartphone add-on lenses. 

    The lenses, a 2.5x tele-lens with an equivalent focal length of 75mm and a 15mm equivalent super-wide-angle, use DynaOptics’ patented free-form system design methodology which promises improved edge-to-edge sharpness, minimal distortion, no chromatic aberrations and no vignetting, compared to conventional optical designs. This is achieved through a rotationally asymmetric design that optimizes image quality in a rectangular shape (i.e, the shape of an imaging sensor). In contrast, conventional rotationally symmetric lenses optimize image quality in a circle.

    Both lenses attach to iPhone 6-series models via an included protective case. The tele-lens has 5 elements, one made from glass and 4 made out of plastic. The wide-angle has three plastic elements and one glass element. 

    You can currently secure either lens by pledging $ 65 on the OOWA Kickstarter page, or $ 120 for the kit. If you like the idea behind the lenses but don’t currently own an iPhone you can also help OOWA select the next devices that it will make lenses available for. Samples and comparison shots can be be found on the DynaOptics website.

    Press Release:

    Palo Alto, CA and Singapore – June 8, 2016 – DynaOptics, an innovator in optics technology, entered the mobile photography market today with OOWA, a suite of iPhone lens attachments powered by free-form lenses. OOWA’s high-quality wide-angle and telephoto lenses, together with protective phone cases, are available for pre-order on Kickstarter now.

    “The introduction of OOWA lenses marks a true innovation in the world of optics: for the first time, a free-form lens is incorporated into a camera lens,” said Li Han Chan, DynaOptics CEO and co-founder. “OOWA’s precision-crafted lens attachments are now available for the iPhone 6 series. Our technology empowers these users to see the world from a fresh perspective — with unprecedented clarity — zero chromatic aberration (no color bleeding) and zero vignetting (no dark corners).”

    Photographs taken by OOWA can be found on Instagram at #madewithoowa.

    OOWA’s suite of products includes:

    • a 2.5X zoom telephoto lens,
    • a 110 degree diagonal field-of-view wide-angle lens, and
    • a phone case that allows for lens attachment with ease and precision while protecting the phone

    A Single Lens Kit (telephoto or wide-angle lens) comes with the selected lens and a phone case, a lens cap, and a carrying pouch. The Pro Kit comes with both lenses, two lens caps, two carrying pouches, and a phone case. OOWA’s Kickstarter supporters can purchase lens kits at early-bird prices (Single Lens Kit at $ 65; Pro Kit at $ 120) during the first three days of the campaign. After which, the kits will be offered at regular reward levels of $ 79 and $ 139 respectively.

    As mobile phones capture an ever-increasing share of the world’s photos, the pressure is on for cell phone technology to compete with the image quality of DSLR cameras. Market research firm InfoTrends estimates that more than one trillion photos will be taken by mobile phone users in 2017, up from 0.14 trillion in 20101.

    OOWA’s products address this insatiable demand for ever-improving image quality and technology in today’s mobile camera world. Visit OOWA’s press page here for more information on OOWA’s free-form technology, product specifications, lab and field image quality results, and a prototype review by a professional photographer. 

    OOWA products are available today for pre-order on KICKSTARTER. OOWA lenses are compatible with the iPhone 6, 6S, 6+ and 6S+ (other phone users — watch this space!), and with screen protectors. The products are expected to ship in November 2016.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Adobe Lightroom CC 2015.6, Lightroom 6.6, and Camera Raw 9.6 now available

    Adobe has released Lightroom CC 2015.6, Lightroom 6.6, and Camera Raw 9.6, primarily fixing bugs and adding camera profiles as well as Raw support. Lightroom CC and Camera Raw 9.6 users, however, also get a new feature called Guided Upright that reduces/eliminates keystone effects in buildings, straightens images and fixes horizons.

    Guided Upright adds a semi-automated function to an existing feature, using guides drawn by the user to apply perspective corrections. It’s found within a new ‘Transform’ panel, which also houses manual perspective correction sliders. Users manually draw 2 to 4 guide lines on the photo, which the software uses to transform the image via Upright. Those manual perspective correction sliders can be used to ‘fine tune’ the resulting image when necessary. 

    Lightroom CC 2015.6 / 6.6 and Camera Raw 9.6 have added support for the following cameras:

    • Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
    • Leica M-D (Typ 262)
    • Nikon COOLPIX B700
    • Panasonic DMC-GX85/GX80/GX7MK2

    The software has also added camera matching color profiles for the Pentax K-3 II, K-1, and 645Z cameras. Both versions of Lightroom also received tethered camera support for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, Canon EOS 80D, and Canon EOS 1300D / Canon Rebel T6.

    The full list of new lens profile support in Lightroom 2015.6 / 6.6 is available here, and the list for Camera Raw 9.6 lens profile support is available here.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • 2016 Roundup: $1200-2000 part 2: Full-Frame Interchangeable Lens Cameras

    For those wanting to step up from entry-level to midrange ILCs, there are many things to consider, including the choice between a DSLR or mirrorless camera, what sensor size suits you best, how important video is to you, and of course the lens system.

    While full-frame cameras typically offer superior low light image quality and more control over depth-of-field, crop-sensor cameras are extremely capable in their own right – and (usually) more compact and less costly.

    We’ve split the $ 1200-2000 ILC marketplace into two segments – full-frame sensor cameras (discussed in this roundup) and crop-sensor (APS-C/Four Thirds) covered here.

    This group of full-frame cameras is split right down the middle, with three DSLRs and three mirrorless models. Sony is, by far, the major player in the full-frame mirrorless market, with most of the other manufacturers sticking with DSLRs.

    Here are the cameras we’ll cover in this enthusiast full-frame roundup: 

    • Canon EOS 6D
    • Nikon D610
    • Pentax K-1
    • Sony Alpha a7
    • Sony Alpha a7 II
    • Sony Alpha a7R

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Affordable reach: Ricoh announces Pentax 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 lens

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    Ricoh Imaging has announced the HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE lens. The new version builds in some new features and sheds some weight compared to the company’s previous 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED WR lens, but at the expense of a slightly smaller maximum aperture range.

    Namely, this new lens features a pulse motor (PLM) and adopts a ‘rear-focus’ system – both of these changes result in faster autofocus acquisition times (8.3x at wide angle and 1.7x at telephoto), as well as quieter overall autofocus performance when compared to its predecessor. Ricoh also claims that, when the lens is mounted on the new K-70 DSLR, a new autofocus algorithm ensures greater precision and faster operation with dimly lit subjects.

    The lens is 10% lighter than the old 55-300mm, is fully weather-sealed and focuses down to 0.95m/3.1ft Rounding out the key specs and changes is an electromagnetic diaphragm control system, which, according to Ricoh, will provide smoother aperture control during video recording.

    The HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE lens will retail for $ 399.95/£399.99 when it becomes available – Ricoh will make an availability announcement in July.

    Press release:

    Ricoh Imaging announces compact, lightweight and weather-resistant HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3ED PLM WR RE lens

    Advanced-design telephoto zoom lens delivers high-speed, quiet autofocus and outstanding optical performance in an extremely portable package

    DENVER, Colo. June 8, 2016 – Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the
    HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3ED PLM WR RE lens. Designed for use with PENTAX K-mount digital single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras, this new, weather-resistant 5.5X telephoto zoom lens provides enhanced autofocus (AF) and outstanding optical performance in a compact and lightweight package.

    The lens provides effective focal lengths between 84.5mm and 460mm when mounted on a PENTAX APS-C format digital SLR, including the new PENTAX K-70 announced today (see separate news release). Its design enables quiet, high-speed AF operation in still-image shooting, as well as smooth and quiet AF tracking operation during video recording, with minimal mechanical noise created by focus and aperture shifts.

    PENTAX HD (high-definition) coated optics deliver sharp, bright, high-contrast images free of flare and ghosting. The HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3ED PLM WR RE lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 37.4 inches (0.95 meters) to further expand the range of photographic applications. With a fully retractable design, the lens measures only 3.5 inches (89 millimeters) long when retracted, and weighs less than one pound (442 grams), making it easy to carry around, even for casual shooting.

    Fully weather-sealed, this lens is a durable and dependable companion for outdoor shooting—even in rain, snow or other wet conditions—when used with any of the many weather-resistant PENTAX DSLRs, such as the new K-70.

    | Pricing and Availability |

    Availability of the HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3ED PLM WR RE lens will be announced in early July. When available, it can be purchased at www.ricohimaging.com for $ 399.95, as well as at Ricoh Imaging-authorized retail outlets throughout North America.

    Main Features

    1. High-speed AF operation

    With the adoption of a rear-focus system, the lens is almost 10 percent lighter than the PENTAX’s previous 55-300m lens—the HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm F4-5.8ED WR. By driving this focusing lens using a pulse motor (PLM), which is directly linked to a lead screw, this zoom lens also operates faster — approximately 8.3 times at its wide-angle end and approximately 1.7 times at its telephoto end —and quieter than its predecessor. When mounted on the new PENTAX K-70 digital SLR camera body (also announced today), it assures smoother, faster AF operation with dimly lit subjects, thanks to an improved AF algorithm that exchanges AF data between the camera body and the lens with greater precision. Operability of its power-assisted focus system during manual-focus operation has also been improved. Since its distance ring is designed to accurately detect the angle of rotation and swiftly react to a change of angle, this zoom lens can shift its focusing lens smoothly in response to distance ring operation.

    2. Quiet AF operation and electromagnetic diaphragm control, perfect for video recording

    This is the first K-mount lens to feature an electromagnetic diaphragm control system.* When mounted on the new PENTAX K-70 digital SLR or other compatible camera body, it assures smooth, high-precision aperture control during video recording. This state-of-the-art system shifts the aperture setting automatically and smoothly to result in more natural, true-to-life videos, even when the brightness level of the subject changes drastically, such as a live theater performance or a sunlight- streaked forest scene, or with active subjects such as athletes and animals. Coupled with the PLM mechanism, the system also assures smooth AF tracking operation and exposure control, while minimizing the intrusion of focus- and aperture-shift noises during video recording.

    * NOTE: This lens’ KAF4 mount is compatible with an electromagnetic diaphragm control system. In order to use this lens, the camera’s firmware must be upgraded to the latest version (except for the PENTAX K-70). Cameras compatible with this system are: K-1, K-3 II, K-S2 and K-S1. If this lens is mounted on a camera without proper firmware upgrade, its diaphragm control mechanism becomes inactive, making it impossible to obtain correct exposure.

    3. High-quality images, with a minimum focusing distance of 37.4 inches (0.95 meters)

    With focal lengths from 84.5mm to 460mm (in the 35mm format), this telephoto zoom lens provides approximately 5.5-times zoom coverage from medium- to super-telephoto ranges. Its 14-element, 11- group optics include an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) optical element to effectively minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations, while delivering high-resolution, finely detailed images with rich contrast from the image’s center to its edges and minimal color bleeding at any focal length setting. In addition to a short minimal focusing distance of 0.95 meters, made possible by the rear-focus system, the lens barrel has also been designed to be free of extension during AF operation.

    4. Compact telephoto zoom lens

    Thanks to its retractable structure, the lens is only 3.5 inches (89 millimeters) long and weighs less than one pound (442 grams).

    5. Weather-resistant construction

    The lens features dependable, weather-resistant construction with 11 sealed parts to effectively prevent the intrusion of water into the lens interior. When paired with a weather-resistant PENTAX digital SLR camera body, the result is a durable, dependable digital imaging system that performs superbly in demanding shooting settings.

    6. HD Coating to optimize image description

    The lens is treated with high-grade, multi-layer HD (high definition) Coating. Compared with conventional multi-layer coatings, this PENTAX-original coating assures higher light transmittance and less reflection to deliver bright, high-contrast images free of flare and ghost images, even under demanding lighting conditions.

    7. Other features

    ?Quick-Shift Focus System allows the user to instantly switch to manual-focus operation, even when the camera’s AF system is in operation.

    ?SP (Super Protect) Coating applied to the front surface of the lens to effectively repel water and grease.

    ?Rounded diaphragm with nine blades to produce a smooth, beautiful bokeh (defocus) effect. Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice.

    Pentax 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE lens specifications

    Principal specifications
    Lens type Zoom lens
    Max Format size APS-C / DX
    Focal length 55–300 mm
    Image stabilisation No
    Lens mount Pentax KAF3
    Aperture
    Maximum aperture F4.5–6.3
    Minimum aperture F22–32
    Aperture ring No
    Number of diaphragm blades 9
    Aperture notes Rounded blades
    Optics
    Elements 14
    Groups 11
    Special elements / coatings ED elements + HD and SP coatings
    Focus
    Minimum focus 0.95 m (37.4″)
    Maximum magnification 0.3×
    Autofocus Yes
    Motor type Stepper motor
    Full time manual Yes
    Focus method Extending front
    Distance scale No
    DoF scale No
    Focus distance limiter No
    Physical
    Weight 471 g (1.04 lb)
    Diameter 77 mm (3.01″)
    Length 89 mm (3.5″)
    Sealing Yes
    Colour Black
    Zoom method Rotary (extending)
    Power zoom No
    Filter thread 58.0 mm
    Hood supplied Yes
    Hood product code PH-RBK58
    Tripod collar No

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Ricoh introduces weather-resistant Pentax K-70 with Hybrid AF and Pixel Shift

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    Ricoh has unveiled the Pentax K-70, an advanced entry-level DSLR with an AA-filterless 24MP APS-C sensor and a body that’s designed to stand up to the elements. It boasts a dustproof, freezeproof and weather-resistant design, and is the first Pentax DSLR to offer Hybrid AF in live view. 

    The K-70 offers in-body shake reduction image stabilization, bringing with it Pixel Shift Resolution and AA filter simulation. An 11-point AF system offers nine centrally located cross-type sensors, and burst shooting is offered at 6 fps.

    A PRIME MII image processor allows for 14-bit readout and a maximum ISO of 102,400. Movie recording tops out at 1080/30p, augmented by a 4K interval mode that combines 4K resolution stills into a movie file. On the back panel, the K-70 provides a 3″ 921k-dot vari-angle LCD where its K-50 predecessor used a fixed monitor. Rounding out the feature set is built-in Wi-Fi.

    The Pentax K-70 will cost $ 649.95. Somewhat cryptically, Ricoh says it will announce availability at the beginning of July.

    Press release:

    Ricoh Imaging unveils weather-resistant, advanced digital SLR camera designed for the great outdoors

    PENTAX K-70 incorporates speedy, high-accuracy AF, ultra-sensitive imaging engine and other technologies for producing high-resolution images in a wide variety of challenging conditions

    DENVER, Colo., June 8, 2016—Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the PENTAX K-70 advanced digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. Compact, dustproof and weather-resistant, the new PENTAX K-70 camera incorporates features — many of which have previously only been available on top-of-the-line PENTAX models — that enable photographers to produce high-resolution still photos and HD videos in a wide variety of challenging conditions, including low light and temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). The camera’s weather-resistant capabilities and compact design make it an ideal photographic companion for hikers, climbers and snow sports enthusiasts, as well as for nature and landscape photographers.

    With a newly developed image accelerator unit providing a top sensitivity of ISO 102,400, plus the PENTAX-developed PRIME MII image processor, the PENTAX K-70 is capable of capturing high quality images in extremely low-light conditions. A new Hybrid Autofocus (AF) system, integrating both image-plane phase-matching and contrast-detection autofocus technologies, delivers speedy and accurate autofocus while also providing continuous auto focus for HD video recording.

    “PENTAX has a long history of developing cameras and lenses that can withstand the rigors of the great outdoors. The K-70 goes a step further, with new, advanced features that enable the creation of higher quality images and make the camera very easy to use, both in the backyard and in the field,” said Kaz Eguchi, president, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation. “Combined with any one of our many available weather-resistant lenses, this camera is in a class of its own for outdoor photography.”

    The PENTAX K-70 provides a variety of advanced features found only in Ricoh’s high-grade PENTAX K-series models, such as the PENTAX Pixel Shift Resolution System, which produces high-resolution, finely detailed images. These also include an AA Filter Simulator that effectively eliminates moiré without the need for an anti-aliasing filter, a variable-tilt LCD monitor, and an in-body shake-reduction mechanism that reduces the effects of camera shake up to 4.5 shutter steps. The K-70 also incorporates built-in Wi-Fi for remote shooting and easy transfer to smart devices using Ricoh’s dedicated Image Sync app.

    The PENTAX K-70’s exterior is designed with outdoor operations in mind. Features such as a newly designed grip, mode dial and control buttons on the camera’s top and back panels are designed to be easy and intuitive to operate, even with a gloved hand. It also comes equipped with an outdoor-friendly LCD monitor with an illumination control that can be instantly adjusted to the lighting level of any shooting location. The K-70 also has a red-lighted monitor display function which keeps ambient light from interfering with astrophotography.

    In conjunction with the PENTAX K-70 camera, Ricoh Imaging is announcing the HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3ED PLM WR RE lens, a compact, weather-resistant telephoto zoom (see details in separate news release, also issued today); plus the Cable Switch CS-310, a remote shutter release designed especially for use with the K-70.

    | Pricing and Availability |

    Availability of the PENTAX K-70 camera, which comes in black and silky silver finishes, will be announced at the beginning of July. When available, it can be purchased at www.ricohimaging.com for $ 649.95, as well as at Ricoh Imaging-authorized retail outlets throughout North America.

    Pentax K-70 specifications:

    Price
    MSRP $ 649/£559 (body only), £799 (w/18-135mm lens)
    Body type
    Body type Compact SLR
    Sensor
    Max resolution 6000 x 4000
    Other resolutions 4608 x 3072, 3072 x 2048, 1920 x 1280
    Image ratio w:h 3:2
    Effective pixels 24 megapixels
    Sensor photo detectors 25 megapixels
    Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
    Sensor type CMOS
    Processor PRIME MII
    Color space sRGB, AdobeRGB
    Color filter array Primary color filter
    Image
    ISO Auto, 100-102400
    White balance presets 8
    Custom white balance Yes (3 slots)
    Image stabilization Sensor-shift
    Image stabilization notes 4.5 stop correction
    Uncompressed format RAW
    JPEG quality levels Best, better, good
    File format
    • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
    • Raw (PEF or DNG)
    Optics & Focus
    Autofocus
    • Contrast Detect (sensor)
    • Phase Detect
    • Multi-area
    • Center
    • Selective single-point
    • Tracking
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • Face Detection
    • Live View
    Autofocus assist lamp Yes
    Manual focus Yes
    Number of focus points 11
    Lens mount Pentax KAF2
    Focal length multiplier 1.5×
    Screen / viewfinder
    Articulated LCD Fully articulated
    Screen size 3″
    Screen dots 921,000
    Touch screen No
    Screen type TFT LCD
    Live view Yes
    Viewfinder type Optical (pentaprism)
    Viewfinder coverage 100%
    Viewfinder magnification 0.95×
    Photography features
    Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
    Maximum shutter speed 1/6000 sec
    Exposure modes
    • Program
    • Shutter priority
    • Aperture priority
    • Shutter and aperture priority
    • Manual
    Scene modes
    • Portrait
    • Landscape
    • Macro
    • Moving Object
    • Night Scene Portrait
    • Sunset
    • Blue Sky
    • Forest
    • Night Scene
    • Night Scene HDR
    • Night Snap
    • Food
    • Pet
    • Kids
    • Surf & Snow
    • Backlight Silhouette
    • Candlelight
    • Stage Lighting
    • Museum
    Built-in flash Yes
    Flash range 12.00 m (at ISO 100)
    External flash Yes
    Flash modes Auto, auto w/redeye reduction, flash on, flash + redeye reduction, slow sync, trailing curtain sync, manual
    Flash X sync speed 1/180 sec
    Drive modes
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • Self-timer
    • Remote control
    • Bracketing
    • Mirror-up
    • Multi-exposure
    • Interval shooting
    • Interval composite
    • Interval movie
    • Star stream
    Continuous drive 6.0 fps
    Self-timer Yes (2 or 12 secs, continuous)
    Metering modes
    • Multi
    • Center-weighted
    • Spot
    Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
    AE Bracketing ±5 (2, 3, 5 frames )
    Videography features
    Resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p)
    Format MPEG-4, H.264
    Microphone Stereo
    Speaker Mono
    Storage
    Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
    Connectivity
    USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
    HDMI Yes (mini-HDMI)
    Microphone port Yes
    Headphone port No
    Wireless Built-In
    Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
    Remote control Yes (wired or wireless)
    Physical
    Environmentally sealed Yes
    Battery Battery Pack
    Battery description D-LI109 lithium-ion battery & charger
    Battery Life (CIPA) 410
    Weight (inc. batteries) 688 g (1.52 lb / 24.27 oz)
    Dimensions 126 x 93 x 74 mm (4.94 x 3.66 x 2.91″)
    Other features
    Orientation sensor Yes
    Timelapse recording Yes
    GPS Optional
    GPS notes O-GPS1

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Canon USA launches new online photography courses

    Canon USA has announced seven new photography courses that will form the beginning of the company’s new Canon Online Learning program. The courses are aimed at the full spectrum of photographers from beginner to professional says Canon, and students will be able to learn at their own pace as the resources aren’t live. There will be video tutorials and downloadable worksheets and assignments for the practical courses, while equipment-based courses intend to help users get the most out of their Canon cameras and accessories.

    The first seven courses will be:

    • Understanding EOS Camera Operations
    • Photo 101: How to Take Great Pictures
    • Printing Basics & Beyond
    • Great Landscapes Made Easy
    • Child’s Play: Simple Tips for Photographing Children
    • Getting Started with Flash Photography
    • Canon Insider Guide: EOS Rebel Series

    Courses will be priced from $ 19.99 to $ 59.99.

    For more information visit the Canon Online Learning website.

    Press release

    Canon Educates & Inspires With New In-Depth Online Learning Program

    Canon Online Learning Courses Designed to Support and Develop Imaging Skills for Passionate Photographers of All Levels

    Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is launching Canon Online Learning, a new program of immersive digital courses designed to help photo and video enthusiasts of all levels develop their skills at their own pace. The program, which expands upon Canon’s robust mix of existing free and paid educational offerings, looks to educate parents, travelers, imaging hobbyists and working professionals with proven techniques from recognizable industry talents.

    Available now are these initial seven courses, suitable for all skill levels:
    * Understanding EOS Camera Operations
    * Photo 101: How to Take Great Pictures
    * Printing Basics & Beyond
    * Great Landscapes Made Easy
    * Child’s Play: Simple Tips for Photographing Children
    * Getting Started with Flash Photography
    * Canon Insider Guide: EOS Rebel Series

    These first seven courses, and subsequent classes to follow, will include video guides unique to each course with the option to download or print PDF materials. With the exception of Canon Insider Guide: EOS Rebel Series, courses will also include complementary resources such as bonus video content, lighting/shooting diagrams, shot lists, resource guides and interviews with course instructors. Additional interactive materials may include quizzes, assignments, interactive images and diagrams.

    “Canon has always provided industry leading educational resources for our customers. Over the years, we have expanded our offerings to include live workshops, one-on-one in-person sessions and countless free lectures across the country. Now, for those passionate customers looking to take a deeper dive into photography or videography, we have developed a curriculum of content that addresses the various ways our customers use our products today, and it’s available at their convenience online, day or night,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “This new program also helps familiarize the imaging community with our wide range of educational tools, allowing them to learn valuable tips from our technical experts, as well as our Explorers of Light professional photographers.”

    Initial course offerings range from $ 19.99-$ 59.99. To learn more about Canon Online Learning please visit: http://usa.canon.com/onlinelearning or email learning@cusa.canon.com.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Video: Canon EOS 7D versus leaf-cutter ants

    Taking pictures of wildlife in the jungle isn’t easy, which is why a lot of photographers set up ‘trap’ cameras. But every now and then, you end up attracting the wrong species altogether. Watch what happened when conservationist and YouTube host Phil Torres set up his Canon EOS 7D near a nest of leaf-cutter ants, in the jungles of Peru.

    It’s never pleasant seeing an expensive camera get destroyed but quite honestly we’re more concerned about the health of the ants after eating all of that plastic. Also, sorry Phil, but that’s not how Gorrillapods got their name. 

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Firmware update adds watermarking and improves user interface of DxO ONE

    DxO has released a firmware update for its ONE connected camera. The main additions in firmware version 1.4 are support for copyright/author metadata as well as watermarking. Users can now preview aperture and exposure compensation settings in real-time on the ‘viewfinder,’ better known as an iPhone or iPad. DxO has also tweaked the user interface, with quicker access to camera and app settings. And, as with most firmware updates, overall camera performance has been improved.

    Version 1.4 of the DxO ONE app for iOS is now available in the iTunes Store. The camera firmware is updated via the app.

    Press Release:

    DxO ONE continues to redefine mobile photography with v1.4 update

    A new streamlined user interface helps protect your photos with integrated copyright and watermarking support

    PARIS—June 8th, 2016—DxO announced today the immediate availability of another major update to the multi-award-winning DxO ONE Miniaturized Pro Quality Camera™ for iPhone® and iPad®. Continuing with the promise to make the DxO ONE even better after you’ve bought it, version 1.4 adds integrated copyright/author and watermarking support to help protect your photos from unauthorized use. In addition to important performance enhancements, the update also features a dramatically improved user experience that puts all of your capture and application settings in their own, quick-access menus.

    “Like my DSLR and tripod, the DxO ONE has become an important part of my workflow, allowing me to instantly share high quality, high res photos with my clients and followers”, said noted motorsports photographer, John Thawley. “By adding integrated copyright info and watermarking support, I can be confident that my shared DxO ONE images are now protected from unauthorized use.” 

    Since its initial introduction revolutionized the world of mobile photography, literally dozens and dozens of new features have been added to every DxO ONE via automatic (and free) software and firmware updates. Photographers the world over told our team they love the instant sharing capabilities of the DxO ONE, but wanted a way to better protect their work. DxO’s engineers responded by providing the ability to automatically embed copyright and author info directly into the EXIF data of every DxO ONE photo. In addition, version 1.4 introduces the option to automatically add a watermark to photos shared to Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and every other photo sharing service supported by Apple iOS.

    As more and more sophisticated controls have been added to the DxO ONE iOS app, the design team in Paris determined through exhaustive usability studies, that access to these controls could be even more efficient. The resulting version 1.4 update sports a streamlined user interface that provides one-tap access to capture settings, all of which are now logically grouped in a consolidated design. In addition, application settings, such as the Message Center and online support, can now be accessed with one tap from the Gallery view. The net result is that the bright, beautiful Retina viewfinder of the iPhone is now far less cluttered, leaving more room to compose your DxO ONE images.

    “DxO has a world-class design team in Paris that values direct user feedback above everything else,” said Kirk Paulsen, consulting CMO for DxO. “They continue to innovative at a breakneck pace, adding exciting new features and useful controls with each successive release. It’s remarkable how far the DxO ONE has advanced in less than a year since it was first introduced.”

    Version 1.4 also introduces a host of other features based on direct user feedback, including the ability to preview in the viewfinder, in real-time, camera controls such as Aperture and EV-bias. Users can now determine when they want their DxO ONE to go into power saving mode, and all-important firmware updates that unlock new features and functionality are now more visible via top-level notifications, so you’ll never miss the opportunity to take advantage of cool new ways to control your DxO ONE.

    Every DxO ONE camera includes free access to DxO Connect, very simple but extremely powerful software for Mac and PC, that can make your best DxO ONE photos look even better. DxO Connect v1.4 now leverages the new DxO OpticsPro 11 engine, which includes even more remarkable noise reduction for high ISO, low-light images. The new processing engine also makes use of face detection to automatically extend the dynamic range, add fill light, and improve contrast while optimizing illumination on faces in your photos. DxO Connect can even automatically add microcontrast to sharpen fine details in your images, but it’s smart enough to leave those details intact with photos involving faces or with those captured at a high ISO in low light. Mac users, who use OS X Photos as their primary photo editing software, may want to download the updated extension (DxO OpticsPro for Photos – DxO ONE Camera only) from the App Store, which lets you tap into the power of the new DxO OpticsPro 11 photo engine without ever leaving the Photos app.

    Pricing & Availability

    The DxO ONE Miniaturized Pro Quality Camera™ for iPhone® and iPad® is available for purchase at dxo.com, Amazon, Best Buy, B&H, Target and other respected retailers for only $ 499 (US).

    The DxO ONE iOS v1.4 app and companion Apple Watch app are both available for free via the iTunes App Store. New firmware, also immediately available, can be downloaded to the iPhone and installed on existing DxO ONE cameras with a simple tap. The 1.4 updates to DxO Connect and ‘DxO OpticsPro for Photos – DxO ONE Camera only’, are also immediately available for existing users to download from dxo.com and the Mac App Store, respectively.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • 2016 Roundup: $1200-2000 Crop-Sensor Interchangeable Lens Cameras

    For those wanting to step up from entry-level to midrange ILCs, there are many things to consider, including the choice between a DSLR or mirrorless camera, what sensor size suits you best, how important video is to you, and of course the lens system. 

    While full-frame cameras typically offer superior low light image quality and more control over depth-of-field, crop-sensor cameras are extremely capable in their own right – and (usually) more compact and less costly.  

    We’ve split the $ 1200-2000 ILC marketplace into two segments – cropped sensor cameras (which you’ll find in this roundup) and full-frame options (coming soon). 

    There’s a lot of variety in this group of crop-sensor cameras. Two of them are DSLRs and five are mirrorless. While most use APS-C sensors, the Olympus PEN-F and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 use smaller Four Thirds sensors. Some of these cameras are aimed toward still shooters, while others are more video-centric.

    Here are the competitors in this crop-sensor round-up:

    • Canon EOS 7D Mark II
    • Fujifilm X-Pro2
    • Fujifilm X-T1
    • Leica T (typ 701)
    • Nikon D500
    • Olympus PEN-F
    • Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)