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Archive for August, 2018

Nikon Z 6 is a lower resolution, less expensive Z 7

23 Aug

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The Nikon Z 6 is a 24MP full frame mirrorless camera that uses Nikon’s new ‘Z’ mount. It is a faster, lower-resolution sister model to the high-end Z 7.

While the Nikon Z 7 may garner the most attention, the cheaper Z 6 may actually prove the more impactful of the two cameras, since it’ll be within reach of a larger number of photographers. And, since it captures oversampled video without a crop, it might be a more logical choice for video shooters than the higher-resolution Z 7.

Where the Z 7 is the mirrorless equivalent to the D850, the Z 6 is more like a D750

It carries over many features from the Z 7, from its body to EVF to many of its video specs, but uses a lower resolution sensor with fewer PDAF points. Where the Z 7 could be seen as the mirrorless equivalent to the D850, the Z 6 is more like a D750.

The Z 6 uses a ‘Nikon-designed’ full-frame 24.5MP BSI-CMOS sensor and has a total of 273 PDAF points (compared to 45.7MP and 493 points on the Z 7, respectively). It has a native ISO range spanning from ISO 100 to 51,200, missing out on the Z 7’s ISO 64 mode.

The lower resolution sensor allows the Z 6 to capture oversampled 4K video

The camera’s fastest burst rate is 12 fps (with exposure locked after the first frame), compared to 9 fps on the Z 7. This drops to 9 fps in 14-bit Raw mode.

The lower resolution sensor allows the Z 6 to capture oversampled 4K video, something that the Z 7 can only do in Super 35/DX-crop mode. If you can survive on 24 Megapixels for stills, the Z 6 could prove to be the better of the two cameras in terms of video quality.

The Z 6 will be available in late November – two months after the Z 7 – and will be available with the 24-70mm F4 S lens or body-only. The Z6 will cost $ 1995 body-only or $ 2599 with the 24-70mm F4 lens.

Press Release

NIKON INTRODUCES THE NEW NIKON Z MOUNT SYSTEM, AND RELEASES TWO FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERAS: THE NIKON Z 7 AND NIKON Z 6

MELVILLE, NY (AUGUST 23, 2018 AT 1:01 A.M. EDT) – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the full-frame (Nikon FX–format) Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6 mirrorless cameras, as well as NIKKOR Z lenses, featuring a new, larger-diameter mount to enable the next generation of ultimate optical performance.

Mirrorless Reinvented

The new Nikon Z mount system is comprised of mirrorless cameras and compatible NIKKOR Z lenses and accessories. This system has been realized through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance. It has inherited Nikon’s tradition of quality, superior imaging technology, intuitive operability and high reliability, all innovated from its digital SLR cameras.

At the heart of the Z mount system is the new, larger-diameter mount, which unlocks further possibilities of lens design. The Z mount system will offer a variety of high-performance lenses, including the fastest lens in Nikon history, with f/0.951. Additionally, the new mount adapter will enable compatibility with NIKKOR F mount lenses, adding to the range of choices for photographers.

The letter “Z” represents the culmination of Nikon’s relentless pursuit of ultimate optical performance, and a bridge to a new chapter. It is about redefining possibilities to provide image makers with tools to pursue greater creativity.

Nikon will expand the value of mirrorless cameras through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance, and by upholding Nikon’s tradition of quality while responding to the evolution of imaging technology. By providing image makers with stimulating new products, Nikon will continue to lead imaging culture.

Z 7, Z 6 Product Overview

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with built-in focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 6.

The high-resolution Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports a standard sensitivity range of ISO 64–25600. In combination with NIKKOR Z lenses, the camera achieves an outstanding level of sharpness and detail, all the way to the edges of the image.

The versatile Z 6 is an all-purpose FX-format camera with 24.5 effective megapixels, and supports the wide sensitivity range of ISO 100–51200. With superior performance at high ISO sensitivities and full-frame 4K UHD video capture with full pixel readout, the Z 6 responds to a variety of needs, such as shooting in dimly lit environments and high-quality movie recording.

These two models combine legendary Nikon reliability and a familiar interface with the benefits of a mirrorless, including rapid FPS, hybrid AF, silent shooting and advanced multimedia capabilities.

Primary Features of the Z 7 and Z 6

  1. Equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels

A backside illumination CMOS sensor without an Optical Low Pass Filter, with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, has been adopted for both the Z 7 and the Z 6. The Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports ISO 64–25600 range of standard sensitivities (reduction to the equivalent of ISO 32 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 102400 is also possible). The Z 6 has an effective pixel count of 24.5 megapixels, and supports a broad range of standard sensitivities, from ISO 100–51200 (additional reduction to the equivalent of ISO 50 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 204800).

  1. A fast and accurate hybrid AF system with focus points covering approximately 90% of the imaging area

The Z 7 has 493 focus points2 and the Z 6 has 273 focus points2, enabling broad coverage of approximately 90% of the imaging area both horizontally and vertically. This hybrid AF system uses an algorithm optimized for the FX-format sensor, to automatically switches between focal-plane phase-detection AF and contrast-detect AF when focusing to achieve focus. Newly-designed NIKKOR Z lenses take full advantage of this system, providing faster, quieter and with increased AF accuracy than previously possible for both still images and videos.

  1. The new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine for sharp and clear imaging, and new functions that support creativity

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with the new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine. Employing the superior resolving power of NIKKOR Z and NIKKOR F mount lenses, subjects are rendered more sharply than ever before. Noise is also effectively reduced.

Additionally, a mid-range sharpening option has been added to Picture Control sharpness parameters. This option, along with existing sharpening and clarity parameters, allows users to make various textures within the screen sharper or softer, for both still images and video3. The cameras also offer 20 options of Creative Picture Control, supporting creative imaging expression. The effect level is adjustable from 0 to 100.

  1. An electronic viewfinder that utilizes Nikon’s superior optical and image-processing technologies to offer a clear and natural view

The electronic viewfinder adopted for the Z 7 and Z 6 is comfortable and easy to use, comparable to optical viewfinders. Both cameras are equipped with an electronic viewfinder for which an approximately 3690k-dot OLED panel has been adopted. The electronic viewfinder has frame coverage and magnification of approximately 100% and 0.8×, respectively, as well as an approximately 37.0° diagonal viewing angle. It draws on Nikon’s superior optical technologies and image-processing technologies, ensuring a clear and comfortable view, with reduced aberration and minimum eyestrain, even during extended shoots. Furthermore, a fluorine coat that effectively repels dirt has been applied to the eyepiece protection window. In addition, the <i> menu can be displayed in the electronic viewfinder, allowing users to quickly view and adjust a variety of shooting settings, including ISO sensitivity, AF-area mode, and Picture Control, all while looking through the viewfinder.

  1. An ergonomic design unique to Nikon that enables intuitive and familiar operation

The Z 7 and Z 6 have inherited the superior operability that Nikon has cultivated over the years through its development of cameras. The bodies are compact, while boasting a firm grip that is easy to hold, and the sub-selector and buttons such as AF-ON, ISO, and exposure compensation are all placed so that they can be operated swiftly and easily. Additionally, a display panel has been placed on the top plate of the camera, where information about settings can be displayed, similar to high-end digital SLR camera models.

  1. Video functions such as 10-bit N-Log that enables wide dynamic range, and timecoding that respond to professional needs

The Z 7 and Z 6 support recording of not only full-frame 4K UHD (3840 × 2160)/30p movies using the FX-based video format, but also Full-HD/120p movies. Sharper 4K UHD movies are made possible, using the full-pixel readout4. Additionally, Active D-Lighting, electronic vibration reduction, and focus peaking can be used with 4K UHD and Full-HD movie recording. Nikon’s original N-Log color profile can also be used with 10-bit5 HDMI output. The N-Log setting utilizes extensive color depth and twelve-stop, 1,300% dynamic range to record a wealth of tone information from highlights and shadows for more effective color grading. Timecode support makes synchronizing video and sound from multiple devices easier. Additionally, the control ring built into NIKKOR Z lenses can be used to quietly and smoothly adjust settings such as aperture and exposure compensation.

  1. Nikon’s first6 in-camera vibration reduction with approx. 5.0-stop7 effectiveness

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with in-camera vibration reduction (VR). The VR unit provides compensation for movement along five axes. The effects of vibration reduction are equivalent to a shutter speed up to approximately 5.0 stops6. This function can also be used effectively with NIKKOR F lenses, including those not equipped with a VR function, with the Mount Adapter FTZ (sold separately)8.

  1. Other features
  • Same level of strength and durability, as well as dust- and drip- resistance, as the Nikon D850, offered in a compact body
  • A 3.2-in., approximately 2100k-dot touch-sensitive LCD monitor, with a tilting mechanism
  • Silent photography function eliminates shake and noise caused by shutter release,
  • Peaking stack image function9 enables confirmation of the area in focus after shooting using focus shift, which is convenient for focus stacking10
  • High-speed continuous shooting (extended)11 at approximately 9 fps (Z 7) and 12 fps (Z 6) captures fast motion
  • Interval timer photography that makes 8K (Z 7) time-lapse movie creation10 possible
  • An extended low-light metering range12 allows users to easily capture scenes such as the transition from sunset to starry night sky, using aperture-priority auto exposure
  • Built-in Wi-Fi® for direct connection to a smart device using SnapBridge
  • Built-in Wi-Fi® makes the transfer of images and movies to a computer possible
  • Support for existing digital SLR camera accessories such as the EN-EL15/a/b batteries, WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (available separately) for transferring images and movies at high speed over a wired or wireless LAN, and radio-controlled/optical controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting, which makes flexible multi-flash photography possible

Development of the MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack

The MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack that is currently in development will hold two EN-EL15b, effectively increasing the number of shots possible and/or movie recording time by approximately 1.8×. It will provide the same level of dust and drip resistance as the Z 7 and Z 6, and will support USB charging using the EH-7P Charging AC Adapter. Information regarding the release of this product will be announced at a later date.

Price and Availability

The Nikon Z 7 will be available September 27 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 3399.95* for the body-only configuration, or for $ 3999.95* SRP as a kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-70 f/4 S lens. The Nikon Z 6 will be available in late November for the $ 1995.95* SRP for the body only configuration, or for the $ 2,599.95* SRP with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens kit. For more information on these and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

  1. Within interchangeable lenses for Nikon SLR cameras and Advanced Cameras with Interchangeable Lens.
  2. With FX (36×24) image area and single-point AF enabled.
  3. Mid-range sharpness adjustment is only possible at “High quality” movie setting.
  4. DX-based movie format with the Z 7.
  5. Simultaneous recording of 4K UHD movies with 10-bit output to the camera’s memory card is not possible.
  6. Among interchangeable-lens cameras.
  7. Measured in accordance with CIPA standards (using the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, with zoom set at the maximum telephoto position)
  8. The level of compensation achieved when a NIKKOR F mount lens is used is not as high as that of a NIKKOR Z lens
  9. Can only be confirmed using the camera with which focus shift was performed.
  10. Third-party software is required.
  11. Continuous H (extended) in 12-bit RAW, JPEG, or TIFF format.
  12. With interval timer shooting or time-lapse movie recording with silent photography and exposure smoothing enabled.

Nikon Z 6 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 1995 (body only), $ 2599 (w/24-70 F4 lens)
Body type
Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 6048 x 4024
Other resolutions 3936 x 2624 (DX crop), 4016 x 4016 (1:1), 6048 x 3400 (16:9)
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 5:4, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 25 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 28 megapixels
Sensor size Full frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Expeed 6
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 50
Boosted ISO (maximum) 204800
White balance presets 12
Custom white balance Yes (6 slots)
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes 5-axis
CIPA image stabilization rating 5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, normal, basic
File format
  • JPEG
  • Raw (NEF, 12 or 14-bit)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 273
Lens mount Nikon Z
Focal length multiplier 1×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3.2″
Screen dots 2,100,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.8×
Viewfinder resolution 3,690,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Flash modes Front-curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, off
Flash X sync speed 1/200 sec
Continuous drive 12.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2, 5, 10 or 20 secs)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Highlight-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 100p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types XQD card
Connectivity
USB USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI Yes (micro HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11ac + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via MC-DC2 or smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description EN-EL15b lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 330
Weight (inc. batteries) 675 g (1.49 lb / 23.81 oz)
Dimensions 134 x 101 x 68 mm (5.28 x 3.98 x 2.68″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI releases highly anticipated Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom compact drones

23 Aug
DJI has announced the Mavic 2 Pro, featuring a 1-inch type CMOS sensor (left), and the Mavic 2 Zoom, which includes a 2x optical zoom lens (right).

Drone manufacturer DJI has announced the arrival of two new drones to its Mavic series: the Mavic 2 Pro and the Mavic 2 Zoom.

The Mavic 2 Pro is the first drone with an integrated Hasselblad camera—a project that the companies collaborated on for the last two years. The Mavic 2 Pro utilizes a newly redesigned 1-inch CMOS sensor and 10-bit Dlog-M color profile, which allows the Mavic 2 Pro to capture four times the level of color as its predecessor, the Mavic Pro. The drone can shoot 20-megapixel images, has an ISO sensitivity of 100-6400, an aperture range of F2.8 to F11 and shoots 4K video with 10-bit HDR.

Mavic 2 Pro sample video. Courtesy of DJI

The Mavic 2 Zoom is the first consumer-oriented drone with zooming capabilities. It offers users a 2x optical zoom (24mm-48mm) and a 2x digital zoom (49mm-96mm) and can capture lossless video in full HD resolution. It’s built around a redesigned 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, can shoot 12-megapixel images, has an ISO range of 100-3200 and improved focusing speed thanks to its upgraded phase and contrast detection.

A new auto mode on the Mavic 2 Zoom, called Super Resolution, uses the drone’s optical zoom to shoot nine individual images of a scene and then automatically stitch them together into a 48-megapixel photo. The drone’s zooming capabilities have led to new video modes too. Dolly Zoom QuickShot allows videographers to quickly replicate cinematic techniques popularized by folks like Hitchcock, where the camera zooms in on a subject while moving backwards.

The Mavic 2 Zoom can automatically create dolly zoom effects by coordinating the drone’s movement while adjusting the focal length of the lens. Courtesy of DJI

The bodies of the two new models are identical, and are slightly larger than the original Mavic Pro; like the orginal, they also fold down for easy transport. Both are equipped with omnidirectional sensors that can track the drone’s movements left, right, up, down, forward and backward, utilize a 3-axis mechanical stabilization and feature new auxiliary lights on the bottom to help with landing and flying in low-light situations (like dusk and dawn). A redesigned winglet and new motors make the two drones quieter than earlier models.

Example of a ‘Super Resolution’ photo, in which the Mavic 2 Zoom automatically stitches together 9 individual photos to create a high resolution image. Courtesy of DJI

Both models can record at a maximum bitrate of 100 Mbps using H.265 compression, include 8GB of internal storage, and can capture 4K video at up to 30fps as well as HD video up to 120fps. Each has a respectable flight time of 31 minutes.

The new drones also feature updated intelligent flight modes like Hyperlapse and ActiveTrack 2.0, which can now avoid obstacles and continuously track subjects thanks to the 10 sensors found on each drone. OcuSync also gets an update and help keeps the controller and the drone in communication—the Mavic 2 drones can transmit 1080p video up to five miles away from the controller.

The Mavic 2 Pro will retail for $ 1449, while the Mavic 2 Zoom will retail for $ 1249. Both models are available today from DJI.

Press release:

DJI Introduces Mavic 2 Pro And Mavic 2 Zoom: A New Era For Camera Drones

Mavic 2 Series Features Two Industry First Camera Options With New Intelligent Features And Optimized Flight Performance

August 23, 2018 – DJI, the world’s leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, today introduced a new era for camera drones with two additions to its iconic Mavic series: Mavic 2 Pro, the world’s first drone with an integrated Hasselblad camera, and Mavic 2 Zoom, the world’s first foldable consumer drone with optical zoom capability.

The Mavic 2 is the most advanced DJI camera drone ever built, designed for professionals, aerial photographers and content creators. Incorporating the iconic folding design of the world’s most popular Mavic Pro, the Mavic 2 is a powerful platform with new gimbal-stabilized cameras and advanced intelligent features like Hyperlapse and ActiveTrack for easier and more dynamic storytelling. With an impressive flight time of up to 31 minutes and a more stable video transmission system, Mavic 2 delivers the optimal flight experience for capturing epic shots.

“When the Mavic Pro was launched two years ago, it redefined the way people looked at a drone and expanded possibilities for creators around the world,” said Roger Luo, President at DJI. “Today, we enter a new era of aerial photography with the introduction of DJI’s new flagship product, the Mavic 2 series. The Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom will enable photographers and videographers to take their inspirations to the air quickly and elevate their creative ideas to new heights.”

Mavic 2 Pro: Superior Image Quality with Hasselblad

Co-engineered in partnership with Hasselblad, the world’s leader in medium format photography, the Mavic 2 Pro is the world’s first drone with an integrated Hasselblad camera for outstanding image quality with superior light and color performance. Housing a 1-inch CMOS sensor with a 10-bit Dlog-M color profile, the camera captures four times as many levels of color per channel compared to Mavic Pro to provide maximum flexibility for photo and video editing. The Mavic 2 Pro can capture 20-megapixel aerial shots with utmost color accuracy using Hasselblad’s unique Hasselblad Natural Color Solution (HNCS) technology, while an adjustable aperture from f/2.8-f/11 provides more control across a wide variety of lighting conditions. With 4K 10-bit HDR support, the Mavic 2 Pro can be plugged into a 4K TV with HLG and will play back footage with the right color tones.

Mavic 2 Zoom: A Dynamic Perspective with Optical and Digital Zoom

Powered by a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, the Mavic 2 Zoom is DJI’s first foldable consumer drone with zoom, providing a dynamic perspective that ushers in a new era of creative storytelling. With the Mavic 2 Zoom, you can get closer to your subject at a moment’s notice by combining two-times optical zoom (24-48mm) with two-times digital zoom to simulate a 96mm telephoto lens that captures lossless video in full HD resolution. Hybrid auto-focus on the Mavic 2 Zoom combines phase and contrast detection for higher focus accuracy with an increased focus speed of up to 40% faster than before. Shoot vivid 12-megapixel photos or take advantage of the new Super Resolution feature that uses optical zoom to automatically capture and stitch nine photos together for a highly detailed 48-megapixel image, making it an ideal option for landscape photography.

Exclusive to the Mavic 2 Zoom, the new Dolly Zoom QuickShot mode opens a new visual language for storytelling that was previously reserved for professional cinematographers. It creates an otherworldly warped perspective by automatically zooming in as it flies away from its subject, keeping the subject the same size while the full background of the scene is revealed.

Mavic 2 Series: DJI’s New Flagship Consumer Drone with Powerful Camera Options

Both cameras capture vivid 4K ultra-high definition video with extreme detail, recording at a maximum bitrate of 100 megabits per second using the H.265 compression codec to give you an exceptional degree of latitude in post-production workflows. For photographers, new Enhanced High Dynamic Range capabilities blend a sequence of photos for ghost-free high dynamic range, giving the Mavic 2 Pro an impressive 14 stops of dynamic range and Mavic 2 Zoom up to 13 stops.

New Intelligent Tools For Epic, Cinematic Shots

The Mavic 2 is the ultimate tool for aerial content creation with new intelligent flight modes that make capturing professional-quality results almost effortless. A new Hyperlapse feature produces establishing shots that show the passing of time, which you can share to social media immediately. JPEG and RAW photos can be simultaneously saved on a Micro SD card or the internal storage, leaving more room for post editing. Choose between Circle, Course Lock, Waypoint or Free mode to create timelapses with a simple tap of a button in the DJI GO 4 Mobile App:

  • Free – pilots the drone manually while shooting a Hyperlapse video.
  • Circle – automatically flies the drone in a circular pattern around a subject you select to create a timelapse video that captures the action.
  • Course Lock – keeps the camera fixed on shooting subject while the drone flies in a straight direction to create a unique perspective.
  • Waypoint – plans a complex flight path based on both altitude and GPS coordinates to capture complex shots.

Keeping a moving subject in the frame is now easier than ever with ActiveTrack 2.0. This enhanced auto-track feature delivers a powerful combination of autonomous tracking and obstacle sensing capabilities never before seen in a DJI drone. Using the main camera and the front dual vision cameras, the Mavic 2 creates a three-dimensional map of the area in front of it, and uses new trajectory algorithms to analyze motion and predict the subject’s path up to three seconds in the future. When tracking a target, the Mavic 2 can recognize and avoid obstacles while shooting your target without interruption. It can stay on target, even if your subject momentarily goes behind an obstacle, and can track the subject at higher speeds of up to 44 mph (72 km/h).

Safer, Smarter and Stable Flight

The Mavic 2 delivers autonomous flight capabilities that help you capture shots with even more confidence in complex environments. A fully upgraded FlightAutonomy system transmits data to a more powerful central processor for more accurate obstacle sensing and safer flight. For the first time ever in a DJI drone, Mavic 2 has 10 sensors on all sides of the aircraft to automatically detect obstacles in its path and help prevent collisions, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect shot.

An improved Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS) allows the aircraft to analyze its surrounding environment and automatically fly around obstacles without stopping. In addition, the Mavic 2 has a Bottom Auxiliary Light that turns on automatically to ensure safe and precise landings in low-light situations.

A newly designed OcuSync 2.0 video transmission system enables a more stable connection between the drone and its remote controller. The system features stronger interference resistance and auto-switching capabilities that supports both 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands with the capability to use different frequencies for uplink and downlink data streams. It delivers 1080p video transmission feeds at a distance of up to 8km, allowing you to instantly edit and upload Full HD footage directly from the video cache in the DJI app in a wider variety of situations. Original resolution photos in JPEG can be saved directly to your mobile device, so you can immediately share what you create without the need to transfer files from the drone.

Aerodynamic Design and Extended Flight Time

The Mavic 2’s redesigned, more aerodynamic airframe reduces body drag by up to 19% compared to the Mavic Pro, allowing the Mavic 2 to fly at speeds of up to 44 mph (72 km/h) in Sport mode. Combined with a more efficient, quieter propulsion system and noise reducing propellers, the Mavic 2 has a maximum flight time of up to 31 minutes.

To ensure crisp photos and smooth, shake-free footage, the Mavic 2 houses an ultra-precise three-axis mechanical gimbal to stabilize its camera even during high-speed motion. Photos and videos can be saved directly to the drone using its 8 GB onboard storage. All DJI users have control over how their data is stored and managed, as part of DJI’s commitment to protecting its customers’ data.

A redesigned remote controller features detachable control sticks for ease of storage and portability. The Mavic 2 is compatible with DJI Goggles with the gimbal (yaw) control range up to -75°¬– +75° in Head Tracking mode, offering users a more immersive FPV flight experience.

Price and Availability

The US retail price of a Mavic 2 Pro, including the drone, battery, remote controller, charger, and four pairs of propellers, is $ 1,499 USD. The US retail price of a Mavic 2 Zoom, including the drone, battery, charger, remote controller and four pairs of propellers, is $ 1,199 USD. A Fly More Kit, including two additional batteries, a multi-battery charging hub, a car charger, a battery to power bank adapter, two pairs of propellers and a carrying bag, retails at $ 319 USD. A gimbal replacement service exclusively for Mavic 2, will be available soon.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon’s Z 7 mirrorless camera has full-frame 45MP sensor, in-body image stabilization and hybrid AF

23 Aug

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After years of speculation and a month of teasers, Nikon has lifted the curtain on its new Z-series full-frame mirrorless system. The system will initially comprise two bodies – the flagship Z 7 and midrange Z 6 – alongside three lenses and an F-mount adapter. The Z 7 and Z 6 are physically almost identical, with the main differences being internal: pixel count, number of autofocus points and maximum burst rate.

The Z 7 is a 45.7MP camera with built-in 5-axis image stabilization. It can shoot at up to 9 frames per second and capture 4K video or output a 10-bit 4:2:2 Log video stream over HDMI.

“We aim to become number 1 in full-frame mirrorless cameras in the future”
– Nobuyoshi Gokyu, Senior VP, Imaging, Nikon Inc.

The Z-mount is the largest full-frame mirrorless mount on the market with a diameter of 55mm, allowing it to support lenses as fast as F0.95. The flange distance is just 16mm, the shortest of any full-frame mirrorless system. The Z-mount has a 65% smaller flange and 17% larger diameter than the legacy F-mount, which, fundamentally, has remained more or less unchanged since the 1950s.

The Z 7 is the flagship model and has a lot in common with the D850, both in terms of core features and price. It features a Nikon-designed 45.7 BSI-CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization and a hybrid autofocus system with 493 phase-detect points.

The magnesium alloy body is fully weather-sealed to the same level as the D850. It features an ultra-high-resolution electronic viewfinder with 3.6 million dots and 0.8x magnification, along with a 3.2″ 2.1M-dot tilting touchscreen display on the rear of the camera. On the top plate is an OLED display showing current camera settings. The Z 7 has a single XQD slot, which will support CFexpress via a firmware upgrade in the near future.

The camera’s in-body Vibration Reduction system can reduce shake by up to 5 stops and, when used with the optional F-mount adapter, provides 5-axis stabilization for VR-equipped lenses and 3-axis for those without VR.

The camera’s in-body Vibration Reduction system can reduce shake by up to 5 stops

The autofocus system features 493 PDAF points with 90% vertical and horizontal coverage. While the camera can detect faces, it lacks an equivalent to Sony’s useful Eye AF. Naturally, the Z 7 offers subject tracking (though it doesn’t behave in the same way as the 3D Tracking system that we enjoy in Nikon’s DSLRs) and it’s sensitive down to -3EV on lenses with apertures of F2 and faster.

The Z 7 can shoot bursts at 9 fps with full autofocus but with exposure locked on the first shot, or at 5.5 fps with with continuous exposure and focus. The Z 7’s buffer fills up after about 18 14-bit compressed and 23 12-bit lossless compressed Raws. Battery life is rated at 330 shots per charge (CIPA) and a battery grip will be available in the future.

Video features are plentiful. The camera captures UHD 4K video at 30p and 24p using the full width of the sensor. When using a Super 35/DX crop of 1.5x, the camera uses all the pixels in that region to produce its video. There are 435 phase-detect points available when capturing video, with both in-body and electronic VR available to reduce shake.

The Z 7 supports 10-bit N-LOG (4:2:2) when output over HDMI as well as the ability to simultaneously output video (8-bit 4:2:0) while recording to the memory card. There’s also live focus peaking, zebra stripes, adjustable AF tracking speeds, time code while in 4K mode.

The Nikon Z 7 will be available body-only
for $ 3399

The Z 7 uses the latest version of the company’s SnapBridge wireless system, which includes 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Users can transfer JPEGs and Raws direct to a PC and, of course, remotely control the camera from a smartphone. The currently available WT-7A wireless transmitter set is also compatible, allowing Wi-Fi transfer outside the SnapBridge system.

The Nikon Z 7 will be available body-only for $ 3399 or bundled with the 24-70mm F4 S lens for $ 3999 when it ships in late September.

Press Release

NIKON INTRODUCES THE NEW NIKON Z MOUNT SYSTEM, AND RELEASES TWO FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERAS: THE NIKON Z 7 AND NIKON Z 6

MELVILLE, NY (AUGUST 23, 2018 AT 1:01 A.M. EDT) – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the full-frame (Nikon FX–format) Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6 mirrorless cameras, as well as NIKKOR Z lenses, featuring a new, larger-diameter mount to enable the next generation of ultimate optical performance.

Mirrorless Reinvented

The new Nikon Z mount system is comprised of mirrorless cameras and compatible NIKKOR Z lenses and accessories. This system has been realized through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance. It has inherited Nikon’s tradition of quality, superior imaging technology, intuitive operability and high reliability, all innovated from its digital SLR cameras.

At the heart of the Z mount system is the new, larger-diameter mount, which unlocks further possibilities of lens design. The Z mount system will offer a variety of high-performance lenses, including the fastest lens in Nikon history, with f/0.951. Additionally, the new mount adapter will enable compatibility with NIKKOR F mount lenses, adding to the range of choices for photographers.

The letter “Z” represents the culmination of Nikon’s relentless pursuit of ultimate optical performance, and a bridge to a new chapter. It is about redefining possibilities to provide image makers with tools to pursue greater creativity.

Nikon will expand the value of mirrorless cameras through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance, and by upholding Nikon’s tradition of quality while responding to the evolution of imaging technology. By providing image makers with stimulating new products, Nikon will continue to lead imaging culture.

Z 7, Z 6 Product Overview

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with built-in focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 6.

The high-resolution Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports a standard sensitivity range of ISO 64–25600. In combination with NIKKOR Z lenses, the camera achieves an outstanding level of sharpness and detail, all the way to the edges of the image.

The versatile Z 6 is an all-purpose FX-format camera with 24.5 effective megapixels, and supports the wide sensitivity range of ISO 100–51200. With superior performance at high ISO sensitivities and full-frame 4K UHD video capture with full pixel readout, the Z 6 responds to a variety of needs, such as shooting in dimly lit environments and high-quality movie recording.

These two models combine legendary Nikon reliability and a familiar interface with the benefits of a mirrorless, including rapid FPS, hybrid AF, silent shooting and advanced multimedia capabilities.

Primary Features of the Z 7 and Z 6

  1. Equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels

A backside illumination CMOS sensor without an Optical Low Pass Filter, with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, has been adopted for both the Z 7 and the Z 6. The Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports ISO 64–25600 range of standard sensitivities (reduction to the equivalent of ISO 32 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 102400 is also possible). The Z 6 has an effective pixel count of 24.5 megapixels, and supports a broad range of standard sensitivities, from ISO 100–51200 (additional reduction to the equivalent of ISO 50 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 204800).

  1. A fast and accurate hybrid AF system with focus points covering approximately 90% of the imaging area

The Z 7 has 493 focus points2 and the Z 6 has 273 focus points2, enabling broad coverage of approximately 90% of the imaging area both horizontally and vertically. This hybrid AF system uses an algorithm optimized for the FX-format sensor, to automatically switches between focal-plane phase-detection AF and contrast-detect AF when focusing to achieve focus. Newly-designed NIKKOR Z lenses take full advantage of this system, providing faster, quieter and with increased AF accuracy than previously possible for both still images and videos.

  1. The new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine for sharp and clear imaging, and new functions that support creativity

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with the new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine. Employing the superior resolving power of NIKKOR Z and NIKKOR F mount lenses, subjects are rendered more sharply than ever before. Noise is also effectively reduced.

Additionally, a mid-range sharpening option has been added to Picture Control sharpness parameters. This option, along with existing sharpening and clarity parameters, allows users to make various textures within the screen sharper or softer, for both still images and video3. The cameras also offer 20 options of Creative Picture Control, supporting creative imaging expression. The effect level is adjustable from 0 to 100.

  1. An electronic viewfinder that utilizes Nikon’s superior optical and image-processing technologies to offer a clear and natural view

The electronic viewfinder adopted for the Z 7 and Z 6 is comfortable and easy to use, comparable to optical viewfinders. Both cameras are equipped with an electronic viewfinder for which an approximately 3690k-dot OLED panel has been adopted. The electronic viewfinder has frame coverage and magnification of approximately 100% and 0.8×, respectively, as well as an approximately 37.0° diagonal viewing angle. It draws on Nikon’s superior optical technologies and image-processing technologies, ensuring a clear and comfortable view, with reduced aberration and minimum eyestrain, even during extended shoots. Furthermore, a fluorine coat that effectively repels dirt has been applied to the eyepiece protection window. In addition, the <i> menu can be displayed in the electronic viewfinder, allowing users to quickly view and adjust a variety of shooting settings, including ISO sensitivity, AF-area mode, and Picture Control, all while looking through the viewfinder.

  1. An ergonomic design unique to Nikon that enables intuitive and familiar operation

The Z 7 and Z 6 have inherited the superior operability that Nikon has cultivated over the years through its development of cameras. The bodies are compact, while boasting a firm grip that is easy to hold, and the sub-selector and buttons such as AF-ON, ISO, and exposure compensation are all placed so that they can be operated swiftly and easily. Additionally, a display panel has been placed on the top plate of the camera, where information about settings can be displayed, similar to high-end digital SLR camera models.

  1. Video functions such as 10-bit N-Log that enables wide dynamic range, and timecoding that respond to professional needs

The Z 7 and Z 6 support recording of not only full-frame 4K UHD (3840 × 2160)/30p movies using the FX-based video format, but also Full-HD/120p movies. Sharper 4K UHD movies are made possible, using the full-pixel readout4. Additionally, Active D-Lighting, electronic vibration reduction, and focus peaking can be used with 4K UHD and Full-HD movie recording. Nikon’s original N-Log color profile can also be used with 10-bit5 HDMI output. The N-Log setting utilizes extensive color depth and twelve-stop, 1,300% dynamic range to record a wealth of tone information from highlights and shadows for more effective color grading. Timecode support makes synchronizing video and sound from multiple devices easier. Additionally, the control ring built into NIKKOR Z lenses can be used to quietly and smoothly adjust settings such as aperture and exposure compensation.

  1. Nikon’s first6 in-camera vibration reduction with approx. 5.0-stop7 effectiveness

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with in-camera vibration reduction (VR). The VR unit provides compensation for movement along five axes. The effects of vibration reduction are equivalent to a shutter speed up to approximately 5.0 stops6. This function can also be used effectively with NIKKOR F lenses, including those not equipped with a VR function, with the Mount Adapter FTZ (sold separately)8.

  1. Other features
  • Same level of strength and durability, as well as dust- and drip- resistance, as the Nikon D850, offered in a compact body
  • A 3.2-in., approximately 2100k-dot touch-sensitive LCD monitor, with a tilting mechanism
  • Silent photography function eliminates shake and noise caused by shutter release,
  • Peaking stack image function9 enables confirmation of the area in focus after shooting using focus shift, which is convenient for focus stacking10
  • High-speed continuous shooting (extended)11 at approximately 9 fps (Z 7) and 12 fps (Z 6) captures fast motion
  • Interval timer photography that makes 8K (Z 7) time-lapse movie creation10 possible
  • An extended low-light metering range12 allows users to easily capture scenes such as the transition from sunset to starry night sky, using aperture-priority auto exposure
  • Built-in Wi-Fi® for direct connection to a smart device using SnapBridge
  • Built-in Wi-Fi® makes the transfer of images and movies to a computer possible
  • Support for existing digital SLR camera accessories such as the EN-EL15/a/b batteries, WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (available separately) for transferring images and movies at high speed over a wired or wireless LAN, and radio-controlled/optical controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting, which makes flexible multi-flash photography possible

Development of the MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack

The MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack that is currently in development will hold two EN-EL15b, effectively increasing the number of shots possible and/or movie recording time by approximately 1.8×. It will provide the same level of dust and drip resistance as the Z 7 and Z 6, and will support USB charging using the EH-7P Charging AC Adapter. Information regarding the release of this product will be announced at a later date.

Price and Availability

The Nikon Z 7 will be available September 27 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 3399.95* for the body-only configuration, or for $ 3999.95* SRP as a kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-70 f/4 S lens. The Nikon Z 6 will be available in late November for the $ 1995.95* SRP for the body only configuration, or for the $ 2,599.95* SRP with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens kit. For more information on these and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

  1. Within interchangeable lenses for Nikon SLR cameras and Advanced Cameras with Interchangeable Lens.
  2. With FX (36×24) image area and single-point AF enabled.
  3. Mid-range sharpness adjustment is only possible at “High quality” movie setting.
  4. DX-based movie format with the Z 7.
  5. Simultaneous recording of 4K UHD movies with 10-bit output to the camera’s memory card is not possible.
  6. Among interchangeable-lens cameras.
  7. Measured in accordance with CIPA standards (using the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, with zoom set at the maximum telephoto position)
  8. The level of compensation achieved when a NIKKOR F mount lens is used is not as high as that of a NIKKOR Z lens
  9. Can only be confirmed using the camera with which focus shift was performed.
  10. Third-party software is required.
  11. Continuous H (extended) in 12-bit RAW, JPEG, or TIFF format.
  12. With interval timer shooting or time-lapse movie recording with silent photography and exposure smoothing enabled.

Nikon Z 7 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 3399 (body only), $ 3999 (w/24-70 F4 lens)
Body type
Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 8256 x 5504
Other resolutions 5408 x 3600 (DX crop), 6880 x 5504 (5:4), 5504 x 5504 (1:1), 8256 x 4640 (16:9)
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 5:4, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 46 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 47 megapixels
Sensor size Full frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Expeed 6
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 64-25600 (expands to 32-102400)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 32
Boosted ISO (maximum) 102400
White balance presets 12
Custom white balance Yes (6 slots)
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes 5-axis
CIPA image stabilization rating 5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, normal, basic
File format
  • JPEG
  • Raw (NEF, 12 or 14-bit)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 493
Lens mount Nikon Z
Focal length multiplier 1×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3.2″
Screen dots 2,100,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.8×
Viewfinder resolution 3,690,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Flash modes Front-curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, off
Flash X sync speed 1/200 sec
Continuous drive 9.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2, 5, 10 or 20 secs)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Highlight-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 100p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types XQD card
Connectivity
USB USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI Yes (micro HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11ac + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via MC-DC2 or smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description EN-EL15b lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 330
Weight (inc. batteries) 675 g (1.49 lb / 23.81 oz)
Dimensions 134 x 101 x 68 mm (5.28 x 3.98 x 2.68″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS None

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Nikon’s three-year lens roadmap includes 58mm F0.95 Noct

23 Aug

Nikon has laid out its ambitious plans for the next three years of Z-mount lenses. The company plans on releasing six lenses next year, six more in 2020 and eight in 2021.

The most eye-catching is a 58mm F0.95 ‘Noct’ lens, which the company claims will have the ‘highest rendering performance’ and ‘flawless transitions’ between in- and out-of-focus areas, and will be manual focus only. It will use ultra-high refractive index aspherical elements, a new ARNEO anti-reflection coating and its physical design will feature a small display panel that will display aperture, focal length and depth-of-field.

The 58mm F0.95 S ‘Noct’

Nikon is planning on hitting most of the other standard focal lengths next year, including 85mm, 24-70mm and 70-200mm Z lenses.

What are your thoughts about the upcoming Nikkor Z lenses? Let us know in the comments.

Press Release

NIKON RELEASES THE NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S, NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S, AND THE MOUNT ADAPTER FTZ, AND DEVELOPS THE NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S NOCT

Designed Exclusively for the Nikon Z Mount System, Featuring a New, Larger-Diameter Mount

MELVILLE, NY (AUGUST 23, 2018 AT 1:01 A.M. EDT) – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of three new lenses designed for the next-generation Nikon Z mount system’s full-frame (Nikon FX format) mirrorless cameras, for which a new larger-diameter mount has been adopted. The three new lenses are the standard zoom NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, the wide-angle prime NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S, and the standard prime NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S. Nikon has also announced the Mount Adapter FTZ for Z System compatibility with existing NIKKOR F mount lenses and development of the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct lens1.

NIKKOR Z lenses pursue a new dimension in optical performance, by taking advantage of the superior design flexibility made possible by the combination of the larger Z mount with its inner diameter of 55mm, and a short flange focal distance of 16mm. The lenses offer sharp resolution with both still-image and video recording, and are equipped with functions that include: compensation for focus breathing (the shifting of the angle of view when focus is adjusted), quiet operation, smooth exposure control, a control ring and performance that is well suited for video capture.

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S, and NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S are S-Line interchangeable lenses. The S-Line is a newly designated grade of NIKKOR Z lenses that adhere to a new benchmark in optical performance, realizing rendering performance that surpasses that of conventional f/4 standard zoom lenses and f/1.8 wide-angle or standard prime lenses. From maximum aperture, clear and sharp resolution can be achieved as well as beautiful bokeh characteristics.

Additionally, the Mount Adapter FTZ has been designed to allow users of Nikon SLR cameras to utilize their existing NIKKOR F mount lenses with the Z mount system and enjoy taking advantage of an even wider variety of lens characteristics with their photography.

Development of the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct

Nikon is currently developing the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct, a standard prime manual focus lens and the fastest lens in Nikon’s history. The design of the Noct lens exemplifies Nikon’s mission to pursue the ultimate optical performance in the mirrorless category. As the result, the Noct is positioned at the top of the S-Line. In addition, Nikon is planning on releasing a variety of new lenses that will continue to expand its line of attractive, high-performance NIKKOR Z lenses that further extend photographers’ creative expressions.

NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S Primary Features

  • Standard focal-length range from wide-angle 24mm to medium-telephoto 70mm can effectively cover a wide variety of scenes and subjects with rendering performance that will change the perception of what is possible with zoom lenses with a maximum aperture of f/4
  • Optical design that suppresses variations in aberrations from shooting distances of close-up to infinity, demonstrating sharp resolution even in the peripheral areas of the frame from the maximum aperture, as well as fine point-image reproduction
  • Achieved a minimum focus distance of just 0.3 m across the zoom range
  • Adoption of an ED glass element, an aspherical ED lens element, and three aspherical lens elements
  • Nano Crystal Coat adopted to suppress ghosting and flare
  • Has the size needed to deliver an extremely high standard of optical performance, yet provides outstanding portability; employs a retracting mechanism that can be set on/off without pressing a button and reduces total length for a compact lens that can easily be taken anywhere
  • In consideration to a dust- and drip-resistance, the entire lens, including moving parts, has been sealed
  • Fluorine coat applied to front lens surface

NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Primary Features

  • Rendering performance that redefines perceptions of what a 35 mm f/1.8 lens can do
  • Sharp resolution even in the peripheral areas of the frame from the maximum aperture, effective suppression of sagittal coma flare that enables superb point-image reproduction when capturing point light sources in night landscapes, and the soft and natural bokeh characteristics expected of a fast (bright) lens
  • Adoption of a new multi-focusing system featuring two AF drive units providing driving power at high speed and with high accuracy that achieves quiet, fast, and accurate AF control, as well as high image-forming performance at any focus distance
  • Adoption of two ED glass elements, and three aspherical lens elements
  • Nano Crystal Coat adopted to suppress ghosting and flare
  • In consideration to a dust- and drip-resistance, the entire lens, including moving parts, has been sealed

NIKKOR Z 50 mm f/1.8 S Primary Features

  • Superior rendering ignites creativity, and redefines perceptions of what a 50mm f/1.8 lens can do
  • Thorough suppression of axial chromatic aberration ensures superior resolution with faithful reproduction of the fine textures in subjects, even from maximum aperture
  • Sharp and clear rendering of details from the center of the frame to the peripheral edges, regardless of the shooting distance
  • The soft and beautiful bokeh characteristics at any shooting distance possible only with a fast (bright) lens
  • Adoption of two ED glass, and two aspherical lens elements
  • Nano Crystal Coat adopted to suppress ghosting and flare
  • Adoption of a new, powerful stepping motor (STM) enables quiet and accurate AF control during both still-image capture and video recording
  • In consideration to a dust- and drip-resistance, the entire lens, including moving parts, has been sealed

Mount Adapter FTZ Primary Features

  • Full compatibility with more than 90 lenses and functionality with approximately 360 existing NIKKOR F lenses from AI type onwards2
  • The unique characteristics of NIKKOR F mount lenses can be applied to Z mount system image quality
  • In-camera VR (Vibration Reduction) with three-axis VR is available when attaching a NIKKOR F lens without built-in VR; in-camera VR also performs well with stills and video recording
  • When attaching a NIKKOR F lens with built-in VR, lens VR and in-camera VR effectively work together to compensate for camera shake by enabling three-axis VR.
  • Various sections of the adapter are effectively sealed to ensure dust- and drip-resistant performance equivalent to that of NIKKOR F lenses
  • Designed to be lightweight yet tough with consideration for superior operability as a part of a complete system

Development of the New NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct Lens that Pursues Ultimate Optical Performance

The NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct that Nikon is currently developing will be a large aperture, standard 58mm prime focal-length, the fastest lens in Nikon’s history3, manual-focus lens positioned at the very top of the S-Line. It will stand to symbolize the Nikon Z mount system’s new dimension in optical performance.

It has inherited the design concept behind the original AI Noct-NIKKOR 58mm f/1.2, a standard prime lens released in 1977, named for “Nocturne” (a musical composition inspired by or evocative of the night), and was popular for its ability to finely reproduce point light sources as point images. This new Noct lens that is currently in development will take advantage of the advanced design flexibility afforded by the Z mount, pursuing ultimate optical performance. Development continues with the goals of achieving an extremely fast maximum aperture of f/0.95, offering the ultimate in NIKKOR rendering performance with superior detail and sharpness. Additionally, the goal is to achieve beautiful blur characteristics, or bokeh, with good continuity, and ensure outstanding point-image reproduction capabilities for more compelling, three-dimensional imaging.

The NIKKOR Z Lens Roadmap

Information in the roadmap, including release dates, are subject to change. Product names after the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct are not yet finalized.

Price and Availability

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S and NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S will be available September 27 for the suggested retail prices (SRP) of $ 999.95* and $ 849.95*, respectively. The NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens will be available in late October for the SRP of $ 599.95*. The Mount Adapter FTZ will be available September 27 for $ 249.95* SRP (Additional $ 100 savings when purchased together with a Z 7 or Z 6, through 12/31/2018). For more information on these and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

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Cameras for Real Estate Photography

23 Aug

As a photographer, you need to invest in the right gear for your business. Your cameras are your tools for capturing the photos that your clients will love. These are also going to be your partners in making money throughout your career.  The goal is investment in gear that will allow you to capture great quality photos while making sure Continue Reading

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What you need to know about Panasonic’s LX100 Mark II

23 Aug

Hands-on with the Panasonic DC-LX100 II

Up until now, the Panasonic LX100 has been one of those cameras for which people have been long awaiting a successor – the Ricoh GR II is another example. While a GR III has yet to arrive, the LX100 II is here.

Panasonic hasn’t messed with success here, keeping the design, lens and trademark multi-aspect feature the same, while improving image quality and usability via a new sensor and touchscreen LCD, respectively.

Here’s a look at what’s changed – and what hasn’t – on Panasonic’s LX100 II enthusiast compact.

17MP from a 20MP Four Thirds sensor

The biggest improvement on the LX100 II is its new Four Thirds sensor, borrowed from the GX9 mirrorless camera. On the GX9 you get an effective resolution of 20.3MP, but on the LX100 II you only ever get to use a cropped region, giving you up to 17MP.

That’s because the LX100 II retains the hallmark feature that traces back to the DMC-LX3: the ability to shoot at multiple aspect ratios without changing the diagonal field of view. Whether you’re at 3:2, 16:9 or 4:3 ratio, the wide end of the lens will always be 24mm equiv. The aspect ratio can be quickly changed using a switch just behind the lens control ring, which makes it more likely that people will use this feature.

While we’re yet to test the LX100 II, you can get a feel for what its sensor can do by viewing the GX9 studio scene. Besides the increased resolution, Panasonic says that the LX100 II’s JPEG color rendering is improved, and based on some samples we’ve seen and our experience with the company’s recent models, that appears to be the case.

24-75mm equiv. F1.7-2.8 lens

Keeping with the ‘why mess with success’ theme, the lens on the LX100 II is the same as on its predecessor, and that’s good news. This is one of the fastest lenses on an enthusiast compact, with a maximum aperture range of F1.7-2.8 through its 24-75mm equiv. focal range. The lens has a total of 11 elements, including two aspherical ED and five ‘regular’ aspherical.

The advantage of having a large sensor and fast lens means that the LX100’s equivalent aperture is consistently 1/2 to 2/3-stop faster than its competitors. The benefits of that are more control over depth-of-field and less need to increase the ISO, since more light is reaching the sensor, helping to keep noise levels lower.

Direct controls

If you want a camera with traditional controls, the LX100 II is it. No more pressing buttons to change the aperture, shutter speed or exposure compensation – as with the original LX100, there are dedicated dials for each of those on the camera. The control ring around the lens can be used for adjusting other things besides focus, including zoom, ISO and white balance.

Panasonic has added more customizable buttons on the LX100 II, with a total of five physical and five on-screen. If you can think of the setting, you can probably assign to one of those buttons.

LCD and EVF

The electronic viewfinder on the LX100 II is the same as the one on the original model. It has an equivalent resolution of 2.76 million dots, which sounds high, but it isn’t really any better than a typical 2.36M-dot EVF, since it uses a field sequential system. Some people find field sequential displays irritating due to color tearing, which creates a ‘rainbow effect’ when you blink or pan the camera. The EVF has an equivalent magnification of 0.70x, which is quite large for an enthusiast compact.

The 3″ LCD has received some notable improvements. First, the resolution has been bumped from 0.92 million to 1.24 million dots. More importantly, it’s now a touchscreen, and Panasonic’s touch features are some of the best. They include touch-to-focus, menu navigation, image review, pinch-to-zoom and Touchpad AF. This last feature lets you use your thumb to adjust the focus point with your eye to the finder. A tab on the side of the screen holds five additional customizable ‘soft’ buttons.

4K video

As you might expect from a Panasonic, the LX100 II offers 4K video capture. This comes in the popular 16:9 UHD aspect ratio and shoots at up to 30 frames per second. A 43mm filter thread on the front of the lens allows the use of screw-on ND filters.

Sadly, the use of the processor from the GX9 means this footage is taken from a native 3840 x 2160 pixel crop of the sensor. This not only narrows the camera’s field-of-view to give a roughly 32-100mm equiv lens range, but also means using a slightly smaller sensor region than the 1″-type sensor found in rivals such as the RX100 V. Video quality, particularly in low light, will be reduced accordingly.

Video is limited to 15 minutes per clip to protect against overheating.

Special effects

The original LX100 has received the latest Photo Styles added on other modern Panasonic cameras. The one that stands out is L.Monochrome D, which is a high contrast black and white mode. If you wish, you can add a film grain effect that is quite convincing, as it uses a pseudo random pattern.

The 4K Photo feature has also been updated with the Auto Marking, Sequence Composition, Post Focus and Focus Stacking features.

For the first two, the camera captures a short video clip which is broken up into 8MP stills. Auto Marking looks for areas with a lot of motion, which it considers the interesting part of the burst. You can jump to those moments quickly using the touchscreen or dials. Sequence Composition lets you select stills from the 4K Photo burst and combine them into a single image, like so.

Post Focus and Focus Stacking work in a slightly different way. The camera again takes a short 4K video, this time scanning the entire focus range. Post Focus lets you pick the area that you want in focus, while Focus Stacking combines frames to bring the entire image into focus.

However, since these modes all come from the camera’s 4K capability, they’re all subject to the same significant crop (and consequent loss in quality).

Performance and Ports

Panasonic has provided the LX100 II with additional buffer memory, allowing it to take up to 33 Raws in a row, compared to 9 shots on the LX100. The burst rate remains the same: 11 fps with AE and AF locked, and 5.5 fps with continuous autofocus.

The LX100 II continues to use Depth from Defocus contrast-detect autofocus, which has proven itself to be responsive and reliable. We’ll see how it perform when we review the camera.

Despite having 4K video capability, the only two ports on the camera are for USB and HDMI. No external mic socket here, much less a headphone socket for monitoring audio.

Bluetooth and Batteries

The LX100 had Wi-Fi and the LX100 II offers Bluetooth as well, for a constant connection between smartphone and camera. The Panasonic Image App has an ‘Easy Remote Control’ which will wake up the camera for you, and it can also take advantage of Bluetooth to automatically transfer photos you’ve taken.

The DMW-BLG10 battery is the same on both the LX100 I/II. Battery life is up by about 10% compared to the original model to 340 shots/charge, which is good for an enthusiast compact.

Included external flash

There’s absolutely no room on the LX100 II for a built-in flash, so Panasonic includes a compact external flash. The flash has a guide number of 10 meters (33 feet) at the camera’s base ISO of 200 but cannot be redirected or bounced. If you want a more powerful or flexible flash, Panasonic has a couple of options available.

Wrap-up

The Panasonic DC-LX100 Mark II’s impressive combination of a large sensor and fast, 24-75mm equiv. lens makes it an appealing enthusiast compact. It’s not pocket-sized like the RX100 V and Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, but that’s the trade-off for the sensor and lens.

The LX100 II will be available in October at a price of $ 999. That’s the same price as the Sony RX100 V and $ 100 more than the MSRP of the original LX100, by the way.

Look for a full review of the LX100 II in the not-too-distant future.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Long Acre Farms in New York celebrates Kodak with giant camera corn maze design

23 Aug

Long Acre Farms in Macedon, New York, has unveiled the autumn 2018 pattern for its Amazing Maize Maze: a giant Kodak camera. The design was created for Kodak’s 130th anniversary and Long Acre Farms’ 25th anniversary; it features a vintage camera, large flash, a finger capturing an image, and a strip of film.

One of Long Acre Farms’ owners, Joan Allen, explained the reason for the design to WXXI News, saying the farm has provided guests with an opportunity to create memories and capture images of them for decades:

You know we all think of, maybe, I’m pretty sure it’s worldwide, to think of capturing a memory with a Kodak camera and given that that’s our neighbor right her[e] in Rochester this seems like an appropriate theme.

Long Acre Farms shares images on Instagram and provides information on tickets and more on Facebook.

Via: WXXI News

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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SLC-OE-03: How to Choose a Softbox for your Speedlights

23 Aug

Umbrellas are a great first light mod: cheap, easy to use, easy to transport. But softboxes can give you more control, both in the beam's edge and with reduced light leakage. The photo above was shot with a single speedlight and a small softbox.

Today we'll look at how to choose a softbox that will marry well with your speedlight, and do so without spending a lot of money.

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6 Ways to Improve Your Street Photography

23 Aug

Street photography is an exciting genre of photography that interests many people. Although it has many meanings, in its simplest form, it is candid photography of life and people. Street photography encapsulates everyday life, not just in roadways, as the name suggests but within our surroundings.

It can be demanding to capture good pictures that tell the viewer about the daily moments we encounter. Here are six tips to help you improve your street photography.

Street photography 01 - graffiti artist working

#1 – Walk around

Have you ever felt uncomfortable at the thought of photographing random people in public places?

My first tip is to just walk around and get comfortable with your surroundings. Look for interesting things to photograph in the everyday life that encompasses you. Once you have taken some pictures, move on to another location and capture a few more images of another subject that pleases you.

Street photography 02 - old lady in Peru in traditional attie

I saw this elderly lady walking through an old town while out taking photos during my travels and thought she would make an interesting photo.

#2 – Shoot in crowded places

With life at the core of street photography, it makes perfect sense to capture pictures of people amongst crowds going about their everyday lives.

Capturing life around us in different situations can be a challenging undertaking.

Street photography 03 - 2 ladies walking past street art

You may feel uncomfortable at the thought of taking photos of people in busy areas. However, it can be very rewarding to get out of your comfort zone and photograph in crowded places. From a busy marketplace to photographing the general public attending a sporting event, these are just some examples of where you can capture street style photos in crowded areas.

Next time you go on holiday or visit your local neighborhood, visit the park to practice your street photography.

Street photography - Asian men playing a board game

#3 – Photograph people on the streets

Street photography as a subject can take many forms from scenes depicting human nature to interesting moments in everyday locations. To enhance your street photography images, try and capture scenes that evoke different emotive responses such as happiness or humor, for example.

Street photography 05 - street dancers

While on a city break, I came across an interesting scene where I captured these guys enjoying dancing to music.

#4 – Consider color

Street photography is very popular as black and white images because the contrast can emphasize light, shadow, and form. It can also reduce the elements of a busy scene down to its most vital shapes and narrative. Although black and white pictures can look great, I encourage you to shoot in color.

Color can be a great visual element to consider and it has the advantage of adding another layer of narrative.

Color shows the world as it truly is and is a more honest reflection of how we see the world. Anything from radiant buildings to transport or street lighting can provide an element of luminosity that may help to elevate your photos. Street art and graffiti is another aspect that could provide some vibrancy to your street photography.

Street photography 06 - graffit artists working

#5 – Shoot spontaneously

Street photography is all about spontaneity. It is at the opposite end of the spectrum to say landscape photography where the approach to capturing images is pre-planned and everything related to the shot can be set up in advance.

Shooting spontaneously to photograph an intriguing moment can happen at any time from the minute you leave your house to getting your morning coffee. This cannot be taught and is entirely an intuitive and instinctive process. Practice is the way to develop this skill.

Allow yourself to shoot freely in order to make interesting pictures of the world around you and your everyday life.

Street photography 07

#6 – Shoot an event

Lastly, local events are great places to try your hand at street photography. This could be a sports match, a local event with some interesting activities or even an annual festival, where you can capture compelling shots of the participants.

Festivals provide great subjects for street photography as you have the opportunity to capture pictures of street parades, performers in action and candid portraits of interesting characters on location. Find out if an event is happening near you, find some engaging subjects to photograph and put these tips to the test.

Street photography 08

Conclusion

It’s now time for you to go out and practice your street photography skills by photographing a person on the street or a local event near you. What tips and images do you have to share with us?

The post 6 Ways to Improve Your Street Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School.


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How to Avoid Distracting Backgrounds in Street Photography

23 Aug

Have you ever been excited that you captured a really cool street portrait only to notice later that there’s something growing out the side of the person’s head? You were so excited that you caught the moment and the expression but you just did not see that street sign that looks like it’s growing out of your subject’s ear.

In this article, I want to run through some of the techniques and tricks I use to help avoid distracting backgrounds when doing street photography.

Kayan girl playing with bubbles. Photo by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) - How to Avoid Distracting Backgrounds in Street Photography

Fill Your Frame

Fill the frame. This was drummed into me when I started working as a newspaper photography cadet. I was instructed, rather than taught, that whatever is in the frame must be relevant to the story the photo was illustrating.

This is still the most important aspect of composition I follow strictly.

Look at the edges and into the corners. Whatever is in the frame needs to support, not distract from, whatever it is you are photographing. If you keep this in mind, you will find the distractions most of the time.

With a lot of street photography what’s in your frame will be changing rapidly so you must be attentive. You must anticipate what’s going to happen next.

Market scene with Thai flag and samlor. Photo by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) 7 Tips for Avoiding a Distracting Background in Street Photography

The Decisive Moment

Wait for the action to peak. Capture your photos when all the elements fall into place, not just some of them. If you have a photo lined up and someone you didn’t see coming walks into your frame, wait until they have moved away. If you take the photo with them visible in your frame you will most likely delete it later anyway.

So much of the best street photography is about waiting and being patient. Anticipate when the action will be at its best, then take the photo.

With this photo of the samlor (tricycle taxi) rider, I waited a while for the traffic to clear. The street behind him is typically quite busy and cars in the background did not enhance the photo at all. So, I waited and chatted little with the rider.

I knew he would not be moving off quickly and that he was comfortable with me photographing him. I wanted to include the shadow in a horizontal composition and anything like a passing car or motorcycle would have been distracting.

tricycle taxi and rider at a Thai market by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) - 7 Tips for Avoiding a Distracting Background in Street Photography

Concealment

If whatever is passing by in the background is small enough, you might try to time your photo so the offending distraction is hidden behind the subject. To make this work your timing has to be just right.

First, your subject will need to be large enough in the frame. Getting closer to them can be to your advantage. When there is no way to avoid passing pedestrians just wait until they are behind your subject.

With this young girl performing in a street parade there was a constant stream of people moving behind her. I had taken a few photos from further back but was having trouble isolating her in my frame. I noticed she was quite enjoying being photographed so I moved in a little closer.

From this angle, she filled more of my frame and I was able to hide people passing by behind her.

Dancer at a parade in Thailand by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) 7 Tips for Avoiding a Distracting Background in Street Photography

Prevail With Your Position

Pick your spot carefully. When you’re concentrating on a single subject, move around it, or them, until you are satisfied with the background. Don’t just stand and take a photo from the first position you think of as often it is not the best.

As you move about, watch the background in relation to your subject. Often you will be able to avoid distracting elements by cropping them out our obscuring them behind your subject.

This Kayan girl was sitting outside her home. The front of the home has a small stall where they sell trinkets. I did not want that clutter in my portrait, so I moved. I got creative with my point of view so I achieved the clean background I wanted.

Portrait of a Kayan girl photo by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) 7 Tips for Avoiding a Distracting Background in Street Photography

Scout About to Get Minimal

I love a minimalist background. This can be a challenge in street photography.

Look around where you are photographing. Find a place where there’s contrast in the light. Maybe where people are walking in the sun and the background is in the shadows. If you expose for the brightest areas the background will fall into darkness in your photo and disappear.

Alternatively, look for a situation where your main subject will be in the shade and the background is in bright sunshine. This will produce the opposite effect if you expose well. Set your exposure to be correct for the shadow area and the bright background will overexpose, isolating your subject. Or you can expose for the background and make a silhouette.

When conditions are right the contrast doesn’t have to be extreme for this technique to work. With this photo of the steamed fish vendor at the market the background actually was quite distracting to the eye. It does not appear this way in the photo because the light on her and the lack of light in the background is sufficient enough to render the background dark.

Tweaking this a little during post-processing to make the background darker does enhance the effect. We do not see this scene naturally with our eyes like this. We see all the detail, but the camera does not. If you look for situations like this you will be able to create images with your subject isolated from the background.

fish vendor at a market in Chiang Mai photo by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) 7 Tips for Avoiding a Distracting Background in Street Photography

Lens Selection Strategy

The focal length of your lens makes a difference. Working with a wide lens, you will see more of the background. With a longer lens, you will capture less of the environment.

Often with street photography, you want to include the surroundings for context, so a long lens may not be best. Using a wide lens may include too much and be distracting.

Experiment with different lenses to find a balance in your compositions. If a wide-angle lens is producing pictures which include too much background try a longer one. Move back from the spot you were photographing with a wide lens so your subject is still the same size in your frame with the longer lens. Can you see how different the background is then?

The narrower field of view of a longer lens will include less background than the wider lens. Read How to use Focal Length and Background Compression to Enhance Your Photos.

With the women at the bus stop (below), I only wanted to see them and the advertisement behind. With a wide lens I was seeing too much of the surroundings, so I changed lenses and moved back a bit. From further back with a 105mm lens, I was able to capture exactly what I wanted.

women in a bus stop in Thailand. Photo by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright)

Brave the Bokeh

I know a lot of street photographers prefer to use a narrow aperture so focus is easier. This means distracting backgrounds are more common. Be brave, capture some bokeh. Open up you aperture and get precise with your focus.

You don’t need to work with your widest aperture setting. Find the sweet spot where the background is sufficiently blurred and still discernible. I can’t tell you what f-stop that will be, as other factors come into play too. Your lens choice, the distance between you and the subject, and subject to background will determine the amount of blur.

I like using prime lenses as it’s easier to get a feel for how much of the background will be in focus at various settings. This photo was made with my 35mm f1.4 lens set at f/4. If I had opened the lens up to its widest aperture setting, the background would be completely blurred and the context lost.

market porter at a Chiang Mai market. Photo by Kevin Landwer-Johan (copyright) 7 Tips for Avoiding a Distracting Background in Street Photography

Conclusion

One of the most frequent mistakes I see students in our workshops make is not being aware of what’s in the background. It’s understandable that you want to totally focus on getting your subject looking the best.

But if you do not pay enough attention to the background you will often find it protrudes, interferes, clutters and bombs where you least expect it. Compose so that everything in your frame is relevant and adds to the picture you are making.

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