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Posts Tagged ‘Announces’

Venus Optics announces Laowa 10-18mm F4.5-5.6 FE lens, RF & Z mount versions “coming soon”

26 Oct

Venus Optics has announced the Laowa 10-18mm F4.5-5.6 FE zoom lens, a new ultra-wide-angle manual lens for full-frame Sony cameras.

“In response to the demand from mirrorless camera shooters of having a compact wide angle zoom, Venus Optics [has] managed to compress the size of the 10-18mm FE Zoom to the smallest in its class,” reads the press release. The lens measures in at 3.5in/9cm long, 2.75in/70mm in diameter, and weighs only 17.5oz/496g.

It’s constructed of 14 elements in 10 groups, including two aspherical elements and one extra-low dispersion element. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 6in/15cm and a minimum aperture of F22 with a five-blade aperture diaphragm.

The rear of the lens has a 37mm filter thread for adding filters to, as well as a 100mm magnetic filter holder system for the front of the lens. A built-in switch de-clicks the aperture on-demand if you’re planning on using the lens for video shooting.

Venus Optics has shared a gallery of sample images captured with the lens on Flickr.

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The lens is currently available for pre-order for $ 849. The first 50 pre-orders through Laowa’s site will receive a free 100mm magnetic filter holder system.

Venus Optics says a Canon RF- and Nikon Z-mount version of the lens will be “coming soon.”

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony announces Alpha Female program offering $25,000 grants and mentorships

09 Oct

Sony has announced a new “Alpha Female” program, a creator-in-residence opportunity that will award six-month grants to five female filmmakers and photographers. The program, which is no longer accepting submissions, aims to “elevate diversity in thought and creation,” according to Sony. The first class of recipients will be announced some time early this month.

The awarded grants include $ 25,000 in funds, as well as $ 5,000 in product loans and another $ 5,000 in product allowances. The program is a mentorship that involves being paired with Sony Artisans of Imagery, and there’s also guaranteed presentations at LA and New York exhibits for all five participants. The program is open to US and Canadian applicants only.

Sony has also vowed to fund projects by women in its Alpha Imaging Collective and Artisans of Imagery, as well as photography and filmmaking events that are focused on and backed by women.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Gitzo announces Gitzo Mini Traveler tripod with patent-pending ‘Pull & Fix’ technology

29 Sep

Gitzo has released the details of its upcoming travel tripod, the Gitzo Mini Traveler.

Designed for ‘professional photographers and promising amateurs who use mirrorless cameras or DSLR cameras with small lenses,’ the Gitzo Mini Traveler is made of Gitzo’s ‘state-of-the-art’ carbon eXact tubes and an aluminum head.

The tripod weighs 265g/0.63lbs and measures 22.1cm/8.7in in length when closed with the tripod head attached. When used with the aluminum tripod head, the tripod holds 3kg/6.6lbs of gear. If you don’t mind losing the articulating head, the legs alone hold an impressive 25kg/55lbs of gear.

The legs use Gitzo’s patent-pending Pull & Fix leg angle selector system with two built-in leg angles. ‘ The ergonomic rubberized gear easily locks and controls the strong stainless steel sphere of the aluminum ball head,’ according to Gitzo.

The Gitzo Mini Traveler is available in two colors: black and Gitzo’s noir decor. Both colors are available for pre-order on B&H for $ 200. No specific release date has been given.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Zeiss announces ZX1 full-frame compact with fixed 35mm F2 lens

28 Sep

The Zeiss ZX1 is based on the Android operating system and has been designed to be able to run Adobe Photoshop Lightroom CC
Image: Zeiss

Zeiss has just announced the ZX1, the company’s first-ever digital camera. It comes with a 37.4MP full-frame image sensor, fixed 35mm Distagon F2 lens and a huge 4.3″ touchscreen with a resolution of 1280×720 pixels to augment its physical controls. Zeiss has also teamed up with Adobe to offer full Adobe Photoshop Lightroom CC capability in the camera itself. It’s designed to allow you to shoot, edit and share on the fly.

The ZX1 offers 512GB of external memory and Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity

Zeiss says both the 37.4MP sensor and 35mm F2 lens were developed in-house and were designed from the outset to be matched with one another, not unlike Leica’s Q and Sony’s RX1 series. Unlike the Leica, however, the ZX1 does not come with any form of image stabilization. The lens offers a minimum focus distance of 30cm (11.8″) and the optical formula comes in at 8 elements in 5 groups.

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While the ZX1 does not have a memory card slot, it does have 512GB of internal memory, which the company claims is enough to store approximately 6,800 Raw files in DNG format (or up to 50,000 JPEG files). Zeiss’ ZX1 website does claim that you can connect an external USB drive to the camera to offload images. The camera offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity. The company will also offer over-the-air software updates.

The ZX1 comes with an electronic viewfinder using an OLED panel at full HD (1920×1080) resolution and a magnification of 0.74x. There’s a flash hot-shoe, but no flash is built into the camera body. The ZX1 offers single and continuous autofocus, though we don’t yet know if continuous focus is allowed at the maximum burst speed of 3fps. Exposure is taken care of courtesy a leaf shutter in the lens.

The ZX1 is designed to allow you to shoot, edit and share on the fly.

Since we live in 2018 and 4K is everywhere, it’s no surprise that the ZX1 is capable of capturing UHD 4K at up to 30fps, and Full HD video at up to 60fps.

The ZX1 appears light on controls, but the large touchscreen – with an unusual curved design – will help users take more control over their photographs, as well as the editing process.

Image: Zeiss

There’s no word on pricing, but the ZX1 will be available in ‘early 2019.’ Stay tuned for more updates as we get them.

ZEISS ZX1: The Camera Concept for the Creative Flow in Photography

First full-frame camera from ZEISS with first-class image quality and the familiar, intuitive image editing and connectivity of a smartphone.

OBERKOCHEN/Germany, 2018-09-27.

ZEISS ZX1 – That is the name of the newly developed mirrorless full-frame camera from ZEISS that was presented today in Cologne, Germany. Thanks to the ZEISS lens and a sensor developed in-house at ZEISS, the camera delivers first-class image quality combined with an operational concept and user experience that make the photographer’s jobs-to-be-done as intuitive as on a smartphone.

The ZEISS camera concept is just the first step to opening up a new world of possibilities for ambitious photographers – from taking the shot to editing the image and sharing it on the web.

SHOOT. EDIT. SHARE. – Harmonized hardware, software and optics for a seamless creative process

SHOOT: the ZEISS ZX1 features a newly designed, integrated ZEISS Distagon 35 mm f/2 T* lens with autofocus that has been perfectly matched to the 37.4 megapixel full-frame sensor developed in-house at ZEISS. The interplay between the lens and sensor ensures first-class picture quality with that typical ZEISS look.

EDIT: The ZEISS ZX1 enables photographers to professionally process RAW images directly on the camera thanks to fully integrated Adobe Photoshop Lightroom CC. Moreover, the ZEISS ZX1’s unique user interface supports the user’s particular workflow without any interruption – providing direct access to the most frequently used functions via a 4.3″ multi-touch display.

SHARE: when the networked full-frame camera is connected, the user can upload selected images directly to the internet – without the intermediate transfer to memory cards or other external devices.

512 GB of internal memory provide sufficient space for approximately 6,800 RAW files (DNG) or over 50,000 JPGs – more than enough to handle photos, even during a longer trip, and giving the photographer the chance to let their creativity flow. Versatile connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB-C ensure that various peripherals can be connected. Over-the-air software updates keep the camera up to date without requiring a computer connection.

Designed with a passion for detail and a focus on the essentials

The design of the ZEISS ZX1 is characterized by its iconic shape with carefully crafted details. The overall form and reduction to just those elements that are absolutely necessary lay the foundation for an ergonomic camera and ensure easy handling. The symbiosis of hardware and software is exemplified by the newly defined user interface that utilizes the 4.3″ multi-touch display. The slightly bent screen separates the live view from the control elements, making camera operation comfortable and straightforward.

“We know that we exploring new ways and initially addressing a special target group with the ZEISS ZX1. With our concept we are focusing on ambitious, professional creatives who want to produce their photographic experiences quickly and efficiently, and inspire as many people on the Internet as possible. This requires a streamlined workflow in addition to high-end features. This is exactly what the concept of the ZEISS ZX1 offers,” explains Jörg Schmitz, Head of the Consumer Products business group at ZEISS.

ZEISS ZX1 available from early 2019

The ZEISS ZX1 will be available at selected dealers in early 2019. ZEISS will announce the recommended retail price at the start of the official market launch. Starting now, anyone interested in receiving information on exact availability can register at www.zeiss.com/zx1.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma announces 28mm F1.4 Art, 40mm F1.4 Art, 70-200mm F2.8 Sport and 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 Sport

26 Sep

Sigma has announced four lenses for Canon EF, Nikon F and Sigma SA mounts. The 28mm F1.4 DG and 40mm F1.4 DG are both part of the company’s premium ‘Art’ range that prioritize image quality over price and weight. These two lenses will also be available for the Sony E mount. The new lenses help round-out the series, which now includes a range of prime lenses extending from the 14mm F1.8 DG HSM up to the 135mm F1.8 DG.

The 28mm F1.4 DG adds a semi-wide option to Sigma’s impressive range of ‘Art’ prime lenses.
The 28mm F1.4 DG | Art has a 77mm filter thread, matching that of the 24mm F1.4.
The 40mm F1.4 DG | Art is a near perfect ‘normal’ lens: a close match for the diagonal length of a full frame sensor. It’s been a historically popular focal length, so we’re pleased to see its return.
The Sigma 40mm F1.4 DG | Art has an 82mm filter thread.

In addition, Sigma has introduced a redesigned, stabilized 70-200mm F2.8. The 70-200mm F2.8 DG OIS is, as you’d expect, part of the company’s Sport range of optics and is likely to offer a less-expensive alternative to OEM 70-200s. We will, of course, be testing its performance as soon as one becomes available.

Finally, Sigma has announced the 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OIS, a monster telephoto lens, also part of its Sport range. Despite the sport designation, we suspect the lens will be used more for birding and airshow shooting.

The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG | Sport is a substantial beast, even at its 60mm setting.
But that’s nothing compared to seeing it at full stretch. It certainly lives up to the ‘Bigma’ nickname of its predecessor.

As you’d expect, it features a focus limiter, OIS control switch. In addition, there’s a ‘Custom mode switch’ that can be used in conjunction with the Sigma USB Dock to access customized adjustments of the lens’s focus and stabilizer behavior.

Sigma Unveils Five New Global Vision Lenses

Sigma’s 28mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 40mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary, 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports, and 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports will make their public debut at Photokina 2018

Cologne, Germany – September 25, 2018 – Sigma today announced five new Sigma Global Vision lenses shown for the first time at the 2018 Photokina expo in Cologne, Germany from September 26th-29th in Hall 4.2 on Stands B020, B028I and C029. From wide-angle to hyper-telephoto, the new Sigma Global Vision introductions arrive as some of the most anticipated lenses in the industry, further facilitating artistic expression for photographers.

Sigma 28mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
The new Sigma wide-angle model stands out with its thoroughly corrected magnification chromatic aberration and sagittal coma flare, as well as completely minimized distortion thanks to its optical design. It features water- and oil-repellent coating on the front lens element and its overall dust- and splash-proof structure ensures excellent performance even in the most challenging shooting conditions. The high-speed AF, thanks to the HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) with an updated algorithm, captures the perfect moment instantly. Available in Sigma, Nikon, Canon and Sony E camera mounts, this lens is a great contender for street photography, as well as shooting landscapes and night skies.

Full technical specifications are available here: https://bit.ly/2DdAiVE. Pricing and availability will be announced later.

Sigma 40mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
The 40mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is Sigma’s first lens developed originally to live up to the sought-after angle of view and performance standard for a benchmark cine lens. This lens effectively arranges three FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements to correct axial chromatic aberration and magnification chromatic aberration. Designed for exceptional sharpness at maximum aperture, this lens excels at available light photography. With less than 1% distortion and near non-existent sagittal coma flare, this lens demonstrates consistent optical results featuring both 8K-compatible resolution and a beautiful bokeh. It is available for Sigma, Nikon, Canon and Sony E mount camera systems.

Full technical specifications are available here: https://bit.ly/2QHliC5. Pricing and availability will be announced later.

Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary
This lens completes the Sigma large aperture series of portable wide-angle, standard, and telephoto prime lenses in Micro Four Thirds and Sony E mounts. Featuring compact design, light weight and outstanding image quality offered in Sigma’s Contemporary line, this lens stuns with a beautiful bokeh effect and the amount of brightness expected from F1.4 lenses even in the mid-telephoto range for cropped sensor cameras. In addition, this lens is characterized by smooth and quiet autofocus ideal for video shooting. Compatible with the Sony E mount Fast Hybrid AF, it also achieves precise AF tracking. By using the face recognition or eye AF functions of the camera, focus will continuously be on the face or the eye even if the subject moves during the shoot.

Full technical specifications are available here: https://bit.ly/2PLuSTh. Pricing and availability will be announced later.

Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports
One of the most anticipated lenses from the Sigma Global Vision line, the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports is the new flagship large-aperture telephoto zoom lens that meets the most stringent needs of professional photographers. Robust yet lightweight, the lens’ magnesium body ensures high mobility and its dust- and splash-proof structure together with the water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element ensure safe use even in the most challenging shooting conditions. It also incorporates Intelligent OS with an acceleration sensor and the latest algorithm capable of panning in all directions. The lens’ optical design, incorporating 10 exclusive low-dispersion glass elements, allows for extremely high resolution, from the center to the corners. By optimizing spherical aberration, a smooth and natural bokeh effect is achieved when using the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports for portrait photography. The versatility of this lens is demonstrated in various customization options via an AF Function button either through the camera body or Sigma USB Dock. The newest F2.8 large-aperture zoom lens from Sigma comes in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts.

Full technical specifications are available here: https://bit.ly/2DlyWbE. Pricing and availability will be announced later.

Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports
The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is the world’s first 10x optical zoom telephoto lens with a tele end of 600mm. Incorporating 25 elements in 19 groups, excellent and consistent image quality can be achieved throughout the entire zoom range. This lens’ intelligent OS featuring the latest algorithm delivers an image stabilization effect of 4 stops. Its optical design ensures maximum correction of magnification chromatic aberration encountered in hyper-telephoto shooting. This offers both high resolution and consistent edge-to-edge performance throughout the entire zoom range. In addition, when shooting at the focal length of 200mm, the Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports can also be used for telephoto macro photography, with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.3, thanks to its high rendering performance. Its multi-material build, which incorporates magnesium among other components, ensures durability and enhances portability, allowing for comfortable handling of the 10x zoom lens. The zooming mechanism has been engineered to make both smooth rotation and straight zoom possible. Versatile and robust, the new Sigma hyper-telephoto zoom lens is available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts starting in late October 2018 for $ 1999 USD.

Full technical specifications are available here: https://bit.ly/2xmASv1.

Sigma 28mm F1.4 DG HSM | 40mm F1.4 DG HSM specifications

  Sigma 28mm F1.4 DG HSM | A Sigma 40mm F1.4 DG HSM | A
Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 28 mm 40 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Canon EF, Nikon F (FX), Sigma SA Bayonet, Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4
Minimum aperture F16
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 17 16
Groups 12
Special elements / coatings Three SLD + two FLD elements 3 FLD + 3 SLD elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.28 m (11.02) 0.40 m (15.75)
Maximum magnification 0.19× 0.15×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 1200 g (2.65 lb)
Diameter 83 mm (3.27) 88 mm (3.46)
Length 108 mm (4.25) 131 mm (5.16)
Sealing Yes
Filter thread 77 mm 82 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No
Other
Notes Weight and dimensions for Sigma mount

Sigma 70-200 F2.8 DG OS HSM | 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM specifications

  Sigma 70-200 F2.8 DG OS HSM | S Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM | S
Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 70–200 mm 60–600 mm
Image stabilization Yes
CIPA Image stabilization rating 4 stop(s)
Lens mount Canon EF, Nikon F (FX), Sigma SA Bayonet
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8 F4.5–6.3
Minimum aperture F22 F22–32
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 11 9
Optics
Elements 24 25
Groups 22 19
Special elements / coatings one SLD + nine FLD elements 1 SLD + 3 FLD elements
Focus
Minimum focus 1.20 m (47.24) 0.60 m (23.62)
Maximum magnification 0.21× 0.3×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale No
Focus distance limiter Yes
Physical
Weight 1805 g (3.98 lb) 2700 g (5.95 lb)
Diameter 94 mm (3.7) 120 mm (4.72)
Length 203 mm (7.99) 269 mm (10.59)
Sealing Yes
Zoom method Rotary (internal) Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock Yes
Filter thread 82 mm 105 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar Yes
Other
Notes Weight and dimensions for Sigma mount

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hasselblad announces three XCD lenses, including its fastest lens ever

25 Sep

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Hasselblad has announced three new lenses and one teleconverter for its XCD lens system. The lenses are the XCD 80mm F1.9, the XCD 65mm F2.8 and XCD 135mm F2.8, all of which are designed for the X1D digital medium format camera. In all, this brings the system to nine focal lengths covering 21-230mm (16.6-178mm full-frame equivalent).

The standout lens for most users will be the XCD 80mm F1.9, which is not only the fastest lens currently in the X System, but the fastest lens Hasselblad has ever released. Offering a field of view equivalent to 63mm and depth-of-field equivalent to F1.5 on a 35mm full-frame system, Hasselblad claims that the lens comes with ‘superior optical surface precision’ on its aspherical elements to allow for smooth bokeh and a twin motor drive for quick autofocus.

At 1045g (2.3lb), the 80mm F1.9 is currently the heaviest lens in the XCD lineup.

It has 14 elements in 9 groups and, at 1045g (2.3lb), it’s currently the heaviest lens in Hasselblad’s XCD lineup.

Hasselblad has also announced the XCD 65mm F2.8, with a 51mm equivalent field of view. With a close-focus distance of 0.5m (20in), the lens is positioned as a versatile option for street and travel photography.

Lastly, the company has announced the XCD 135mm F2.8 alongside the X Converter 1.7. On its own, the 135mm F2.8 provides roughly a 107mm field of view and a close focus distance of 1m (3.3ft). The lens and 1.7x teleconverter were designed to be paired without any loss of optical quality, and together offer a 230mm (178mm equivalent) field of view, F4.8 maximum aperture and a minimum focus distance of 1.05m (3.5ft).

As with all current XCD lenses, the 80mm, 65mm and 135mm lenses come with built-in leaf shutters to allow for full flash synchronization up to 1/2000s shutter speed.

They are all available for pre-order now, and will begin shipping in December 2018. The 80mm F1.9 will retail for $ 4845 / £3690 / €3990; the 65mm F2.8 will retail for $ 2750 / £2090 / €2290; the 135mm F2.8 will retail for $ 4050 / £3090 / €3390; bundling the 135mm F2.8 with the X Converter 1.7 brings the retail price to $ 4845 / £3690 / €3990.

Official sample images

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Press release:

Hasselblad expands its X1D lens lineup with three new XCD lenses, including XCD 1,9/80, Hasselblad’s fastest lens ever

Increasing the capabilities of the X1D-50c mirrorless medium format camera, Hasselblad adds three new lenses to its XCD lens family, including the XCD 1,9/80, with the largest aperture of a Hasselblad lens ever, the XCD 2,8/65 and the XCD 2,8/135 telephoto lens with X Converter 1,7. The three new lenses and one dedicated teleconverter expand the XCD family to nine different focal lengths.

The XCD 1,9/80 represents a major milestone for Hasselblad with an impressive f/1,9 aperture, Hasselblad’s largest lens aperture, offering an extremely shallow depth of field and light-gathering ability. Thanks to Hasselblad’s optical design expertise and rigorous calibration standards, the XCD 80mm boasts superior optical surface precision, avoiding poor bokeh results or out of focus highlights often seen in high aperture lenses with aspherical surfaces. The lens’ distinct twin motor drive provides quick autofocus performance, while offering a precise manual focus experience. Maximizing the artistic potential of X1D image makers for a stunning shooting experience with a field of view similar to 63mm on a full frame system, it is especially suitable for portrait, nature and product photography with its ability to produce pleasing bokeh through excellent subject isolation and shallow depth of field.

The XCD 2,8/65 is the ideal standard lens in any X System photographer’s kit. With a 50mm full frame equivalency, it’s designed to achieve the ‘normal’ focal length and mimic the human field of view. Thanks to its f/2,8 maximum aperture and 0.5 m (20 in.) minimum focus distance, the XCD 65mm is the versatile option for street, travel and general photography.

Growing the telephoto range, the XCD 2,8/135 and X Converter 1,7 expand the reach of Hasselblad’s X1D-50c. Available as both a paired kit or as a stand-alone lens, the XCD 135mm and dedicated teleconverter have been designed as a cohesive unit to ensure no decrease in image quality when the teleconverter is used. Without the teleconverter, the XCD 135mm has an aperture range of 2,8-32 and a field of view similar to 105mm lenses on full frame cameras and features a minimum focus distance of 1 m. With the X Converter 1,7, the lens’ focal length grows to 230mm (178mm full frame equivalent) with a f/4,8 maximum aperture and minimum focus distance of 1.05 m. The telephoto focal length is ideal for portrait, outdoor, and landscape photographers looking to document details and subjects with stunning image quality.

Like the other XCD lenses, the XCD 80mm, XCD 65mm and XCD 135mm feature an integral central shutter, offering exposure times from 60 minutes to 1/2000s with full flash synchronization through the entire range.

The XCD 80mm, XCD 65mm and the XCD 135mm lenses are now available for pre-ordering and will begin shipping in December 2018.

The XCD 80mm lens has an MSRP of €3,990, $ 4,845, £3,690, JPY¥ 576,000 (excl. VAT) / CNY¥ 38,500 (incl. VAT).

The XCD 65mm lens has an MSRP of €2,290, $ 2,750, £2,090, JPY¥ 331,000 (excl. VAT) / CNY¥ 22,100 (incl. VAT).

The XCD 135mm lens has an MSRP of €3,390, $ 4,050, £3,090, JPY¥ 489,000 (excl. VAT) / CNY¥ 32,700 (incl. VAT).

The XCD 135mm lens with X Converter 1,7 has an MSRP of €3,990, $ 4,845, £3,690 , JPY¥ 576,000 (excl. VAT) / CNY¥ 38,500 (incl. VAT).

For full specs, sample images and more info, please visit:
www.hasselblad.com/x-system-lenses/xcd-19-80mm/
www.hasselblad.com/x-system-lenses/xcd-28-65mm/
www.hasselblad.com/x-system-lenses/xcd-28-135mm/

About Hasselblad

Founded in 1941, Hasselblad is the leading manufacturer of medium format cameras and lenses. Made in Sweden, Hasselblad cameras are renowned for their iconic ergonomic design, uncompromising image quality and Swedish craftsmanship. For over half a century Hasselblad cameras have captured some of the world’s most iconic images – including the first landing on the moon – and helped shape the way we look at the world through genuine photographic artistry. Trusted by NASA and used by the greatest photographers in the world, Hasselblad continues to create products with uncompromising image quality that inspire.

The Hasselblad H Camera System with its professional lens family and unique advancements is widely acknowledged as the most comprehensive digital camera system of its kind available today. Hasselblad was the first to launch the fully integrated medium format camera system incorporating the latest in CMOS sensor technology. In 2016 Hasselblad launched the H6D, a technological feat with an all new electronic platform, delivering superior craftsmanship and image quality. Later the same year, Hasselblad introduced the world’s first compact mirrorless digital medium format camera – the X1D. Hasselblad’s X1D sensor benchmarked the highest score in the history of DxO Mark’s independent testing.

Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, Hasselblad is a global brand with offices in New York, London, Tokyo, Paris, Copenhagen, Hamburg and Shenzhen with distributors throughout the world.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Ricoh announces development of long-awaited GR III

25 Sep

Ricoh has announced the development of its new GR III, a significant update to the GR and GR II. The camera gains sensor-shift image stabilization and on-sensor phase detection as part of an updated 24MP sensor. The camera’s 28mm equivalent F2.8 lens has also been redesigned and a touchscreen added for the first time.

The GR III’s sensor can now shift in three axes to compensate for camera shake and, in common with Ricoh’s Pentax DSLRs, this shake can simulate the effect of having an anti-aliasing filter.

Since the stabilization is done at the sensor level, we suspect the lens has been redesigned to boost focus speed. On-sensor phase detection underpins a hybrid phase- and contrast-detection system which, combined with a new processor and the new lens will, we hope, make the autofocus performance more competitive.

The redesigned 28mm equiv. F2.8 lens will have six elements in four groups, including two aspherical elements. The minimum focus distance has improved to 6cm (2.4″) from 10cm (3.9″). The built-in 2-stop ND filter from the GR/GR II remains. The GR III can record 1080/60p video, up from 1080/30p on its predecessors.

From the front at least, the design is unchanged, though preliminary specs say that the III isn’t quite as wide as the I and II. We’ve yet to see the back of the camera but we do know that the 3″ LCD is now touch-enabled. The GR III has a USB-C socket, which the company says can be used for video output. Wireless functionality continues to be offered through Wi-Fi only: no Bluetooth here.

The GR III will be available in early 2019 at price to be determined later.

Press Release:

RICOH GRIII, a high-end digital compact camera to be exhibited for preview at Photokina 2018

LONDON 25 SEPTEMBER 2018 – RICOH COMPANY, LTD. and RICOH IMAGING EUROPE, S.A.S. are pleased to announce a preview showing of the RICOH GRIII camera at Photokina 2018 — the world’s largest, full-scale trade fair of photographic and imaging products, to be held from September 26 to 29 in Cologne, Germany. The new camera has been in the process of development as the latest model of the RICOH GR series, which features a line-up of high-end digital compact cameras combining exceptional image quality with a compact, lightweight body ideal for snapshot photography.

Over a history of more than 20 years, the RICOH GR series has always kept its basic concept of optimising the essential values of a camera — high image quality, snapshot capability and portability — while at the same time making the changes and refinements needed to meet emerging needs. Because of this, GR-series models have been preferred by a great many photographers, particularly professionals and highly experienced amateurs.

Currently under development, the RICOH GRIII inherits the basic GR-series concept, but it incorporates totally new devices in its main components, including a newly designed lens, a new image sensor, and a new imaging engine. These are designed to further upgrade image quality, strengthen many of the functions and improve the user interface.

Designed to be the ultimate snapshot camera, the RICOH GR II is a totally new breed of GR camera, one that will give the user new and different creative possibilities. We hope Photokina 2018 visitors will enjoy their first look at this new-generation GR-series model.

Overview of the product under development

  • Model name: RICOH GRIII
  • Launch date: Scheduled to be launched in early 2019
  • The design and specifications are identical to those first announced publicly about the camera’s development, and are subject to change without notice.

Ricoh GR III specifications (preliminary)

Body type
Body type Large sensor compact
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 6000 x 4000
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 3:2
Effective pixels 24 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
White balance presets 8
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Uncompressed format RAW
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (14-bit DNG)
Optics & Focus
Focal length (equiv.) 28 mm
Maximum aperture F2.8–16
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
Normal focus range 10 cm (3.94)
Macro focus range 6 cm (2.36)
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3
Screen dots 1,037,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Optical (optional)
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Flash modes Auto, Flash On, Flash On+Red-eye, Slow-speed Sync, Slow Sync+Red-eye
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Highlight-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types Internal, SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I supported)
Storage included 2GB
Connectivity
USB USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI No
Microphone port No
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Battery Battery Pack
Weight (inc. batteries) 257 g (0.57 lb / 9.07 oz)
Dimensions 109 x 62 x 33 mm (4.29 x 2.44 x 1.3)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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IRIX announces 150mm F2.8 Macro 1:1 lens with near-zero distortion

24 Sep

IRIX has announced a new full-frame telephoto macro lens, the 150mm F2.8 Macro 1:1.

The 1:1 reproduction lens will be available for Nikon F, Canon EF and Pentax K mounts and claims to have ‘close to zero distortion,’ according to IRIX — just 0.1 percent, thanks to the optical construction consisting of twelve elements in nine groups.

IRIX touts the telephoto focal length as a benefit noting ‘the possibility of being able to move away from the photographed object […] makes the operation more convenient than using lenses with a shorter focal length. No shadows are cast on the object and it is also possible to use lamps dedicated to this type of photography.’ Its internal focusing mechanism means the lens won’t shrink or expand when focusing.

Illustration showing the location of the weather-sealing gaskets.

The lens features select weather-sealing at various areas on the lens and has a rubberized focus grip with 270-degrees of rotation. There’s also Focus Lock and a removable Arca Swiss lens collar for easy shooting on a tripod.

The construction of the lens features IRIX’s new ‘Dragonfly finish.’ In Irix’s own words, ‘the aluminium frame has been enclosed in an external structure made of aluminium-magnesium alloys and composite elements. The combination of Firefly and Blackstone features gave the lens lightness and solidity while maintaining high mechanical strength and resistance in difficult weather conditions.’

Sample image captured on the 150mm F2.9 Macro 1:1, provided by IRIX.

Pricing and availability is yet to be determined.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony announces lightweight FE 24mm F1.4 G Master prime

21 Sep

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Sony has taken the wraps off of its new full-frame 24mm F1.4 G Master prime lens. Despite that fast maximum aperture, Sony has created a remarkably small and light lens compared to its peers, with a weight of just 445 grams (15.7 ounces). Compare that to the Sigma 24mm F1.4 Art shown below, which is 50% heavier and considerably more bulky, albeit cheaper.

It’s a departure from traditional GM lenses, which tend to be large so as to not sacrifice optimal performance. This lens bucks the trend by prioritizing both optical performance and size and weight.

Sony’s new 24mm F1.4 GM is significantly smaller than the Sigma equivalent to its left. In hand on a Sony body, it feels more like a F1.8 prime, which is really quite an achievement for a F1.4 lens, particularly one with the optical performance of the 24mm GM.

The 24mm F1.4 GM has a total of 13 elements, including two XA (extreme aspherical) which significantly reduce coma, and three ED elements. Sony’s Nano AR coating reduces flare and ghosting, and so far, we’re impressed by the lack of distracting flare artifacts and high contrast images even when shooting into the sun. 11 aperture blades yield smooth bokeh and circular out-of-focus highlights even when you stop down to F2.8, as well as 22-blade sharp sunbursts if you stop down further with bright, pinpoint light sources.

Focus is is driven by a new, evolved Direct Drive SSM motor that deliveries ‘approximately three times greater thrust’ than the previous system, but with high positional accuracy, according to Sony. In our initial tests, it’s faster to focus than the Sigma 24mm F1.4 Art, so we’re impressed by the speed of focus considering its F1.4 maximum aperture.

Its manual focus ring offers a linear response: a rarity on mirrorless lenses and useful when shooting video. It almost feels like a mechanically coupled focus ring. An aperture ring (with a ‘de-click’ feature), customizable focus hold button and AF/MF switch are also available. As with all G Master lenses, the 24mm F1.4 is weather-sealed.

Focus is silent, and there’s minimal focus breathing. That combined with the linear focusing behavior and small lightweight design makes this lens very suitable for video.

The Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM will ship in October for $ 1400. Stay tuned for in-depth analyses of the optical characteristics of this lens, but in the meantime you can judge the performance yourself from our sample images, linked below. And if you’re itching to assess sharpness, have a look at our aperture progression of a cityscape at the end of our sample gallery.

View our Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM sample gallery

Watch DPReview TV’s first impressions

Press Release

Sony Expands Full-Frame Lens Lineup with Launch of 24mm F1.4 G Master™ Prime

New Large Aperture Wide-Angle Prime Lens is the most compact and lightest in its class[i] , with superb sharpness even at F1.4

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 20, 2018 – Sony Electronics, Inc. – a global leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer – has today introduced an exciting new addition to their acclaimed G Master series of full-frame E-mount lenses, a 24mm F1.4 prime lens.

Expertly engineered to deliver best in class performance across all aperture settings, the new FE 24mm F1.4 GM (model SEL24F14GM) utilizes Sony’s most advanced optical technologies to satisfy the needs of the most demanding photographers. The new lens is the most compact and lightweight in its classi, measuring approx. 3.0 inches x 3.64 inches and weighing only 15.7 ounces, with a filter diameter of 67mm. Built to meet the strict standards of Sony’s flagship G Master series, the FE 24mm F1.4 GM offers exceptionally high resolution and beautiful bokeh, two qualities that are signature attributes of the G Master brand.

“We are continuing to evolve our lens lineup to maximize the power of our innovative ? camera lineup, ” said Neal Manowitz, vice president of imaging solutions at Sony Electronics. “The new 24mm prime brings an exciting new perspective to our flagship lens series. With its incredibly lightweight design and signature G Master quality, our 30th native full-frame mirrorless lens opens up a new world of creative opportunities for today’s photographers, videographers and multi-media creators.”

Realizing consistently high resolution across the entire frame, even at F1.4, the FE 24mm F1.4 GM boasts a new optical design comprised of 10 groups with 13 elements, including two XA (extreme aspherical) and three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements. The incorporation of two XA elements effectively suppresses sagittal flare[ii] to ensure that point light sources like distant stars can be accurately reproduced, making the FE 24mm F1.4 GM a compelling proposition for astrophotography. For impressive clarity, Sony’s unique Nano AR Coating is applied to reduce lens flare and ghosting, even in landscape shots where the position of the sun can be problematic with a normal lens.

This outstanding performance is packaged in an extremely compact and lightweight body weighing it at only 15.7 ounces, a welcome relief for landscape or adventure photographers that are hiking, climbing or traveling over long distances. This advantage is further compounded when the FE 24mm F1.4 GM is paired with one of Sony’s award winning ?7 / ?9 cameras. The lightweight lens design has been realized in part by the development of a new high power DDSSM (Direct Drive SSM) that delivers approximately three times greater thrust than the previous focus system, enabling fast response, high positioning accuracy and quiet operation for both stills and movie shooting.

This incredible lens is also a perfect complement to Sony’s APS-C sensor mirrorless cameras such as ?6500 and ?6300, and brings the total number of native Sony ? E-mount lenses to 48[iii].

In addition to its landscape and starscape shooting abilities, the FE 24mm F1.4 GM also has excellent close up performance of 0.24 meters (0.79ft.) and delivers soft and natural bokeh, a feature that is common across Sony’s entire G Master series of lenses. This is achieved by extreme control over factors like spherical aberration, and axial and lateral chromatic aberration, at the design and manufacturing stages, as each lens is individually tested and adjusted to achieve maximum performance.

The FE 24mm F1.4 GM also includes a number of professional controls that aide ease of operation for both stills and movie shooting. These include an aperture ring that allows direct, intuitive aperture control, and a focus ring that features Linear Response MF for fine, responsive manual focus control. There is also a customizable focus hold button, and a focus-mode switch that makes it possible to quickly select auto or manual focus to match changing shooting conditions.

Pricing and Availability

The FE 24mm F1.4 GM will ship in October 2018 for approximately $ 1,400 US and $ 1,900 CA. The lens will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America.

[i] Compared to other full-frame 24mm F1.4 auto-focus prime lenses. As of September 2018 press release, based on Sony research

[ii] A phenomenon that results in an unnatural spreading of point light sources that appears somewhat like a bird spreading its wings and becomes more pronounced towards the image periphery. It is most common in large-aperture lenses

[iii] Including converters, excluding discontinued models

Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 24 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4
Minimum aperture F16
Aperture ring Yes
Number of diaphragm blades 11
Optics
Elements 13
Groups 10
Special elements / coatings XA (extreme aspherical) + ED elements, Nano AR coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.24 m (9.45)
Maximum magnification 0.17×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Linear Motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 445 g (0.98 lb)
Diameter 75 mm (2.95)
Length 92 mm (3.62)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Filter thread 67 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Hood product code ALC-SH154

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Cosina announces Voigtlander 21mm F3.5 lens for Sony E-mount systems

21 Sep

Cosina has announced its new Voigtlander Color Skopar 21mm F3.5 E-mount lens.

This is the eighth Voigtlander lens designed specifically for Sony’s full-frame E-mount support. As with past lenses, the Color Skopar 21mm F3.5 features full EXIF support. In addition to having the extra metadata there, this also means Sony’s in-body image stabilization should work without issue when shooting with the lens.

The lens constructed of nine elements — including one aspherical element and one anomalous partial dispersion element — in eight groups. It has a minimum focusing distance of 20cm/7.87in and uses a ten-blade aperture diaphragm.

The diameter of the lens is 62.8mm/2.47in and the length is 39.9mm/1.57in. It weighs just 230g and features a 52mm filter size.

Below are a collection of sample images provided by Cosina:

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The lens is currently available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping in October 2018. Cosina has it listed for ¥85,000, which equates to roughly $ 758 at the current exchange rate. Fred Miranda notes though that the price is suspected to be $ 799 when it lands stateside.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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