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Posts Tagged ‘Announces’

Blackmagic Design announces new Blackmagic RAW codec for video

15 Sep

Blackmagic Design has announced the public beta of its new Blackmagic RAW video codec. The company says the new format combines the benefits of shooting Raw video with the ease of use and smaller file sizes usually associated with compressed, gamma-encoded video files.

Raw video typically produces very large files and requires lots of processing power to edit when compared to compressed formats. Blackmagic says it has addressed this problem by moving part of the de-mosaic process into the camera, which is able to provide hardware-based acceleration. By performing this process in-camera, editing software like DaVinci Resolve won’t need to work nearly as hard to decode the files.

Blackmagic RAW supports two types of compression: constant quality or constant bit rate, allowing users to prioritize image quality or file size based on what they’re shooting. Images are encoded using a non-linear 12-bit space designed to provide both high quality color data and dynamic range. According to Blackmagic, its new Raw format will also provide more accurate skin tones and color thanks to its Generation 4 Color Science. (All of this processing does make us wonder whether these Raw files are completely comparable to the Raw files we’re used to in the still imaging world.)

The Blackmagic RAW public beta can be downloaded immediately for use on the URSA Mini Pro camera.

The company says the new Raw format will also simplify media management by creating single files rather than directories of still images, as is the case with CinemaDNG. When files are edited in software like DaVinci Resolve a sidecar file will be created, similar to a Raw photo in Adobe Camera Raw.

Speaking of DaVinci Resolve, Blackmagic has just released version 15.1, which includes full support for Blackmagic RAW. For users of Blackmagic cameras, this means it will be possible to shoot, edit, and color grade using the same files through the entire workflow.

Blackmagic has released DaVinci Resolve 15.1, which fully supports its new Blackmagic RAW codec, and is available for download immediately.

For users of other software platforms, Blackmagic has announced a Blackmagic RAW Developer SDK that will allow third party developers to add support for the new format in other applications.

Users can download the public beta of Blackmagic RAW for use with the URSA Mini Pro through the Blackmagic Camera 6.0 Beta update, with the final version shipping in several weeks once testing is complete. DaVinci Resolve 15.1 is available for download immediately from the Blackmagic website. If you happen to be attending IBC 2018 in Amsterdam, you can stop by the Blackmagic booth for a demonstration.

Press release:

Blackmagic Design Announces Advanced New Blackmagic RAW Codec

Revolutionary new and modern codec that’s easier to use and much better quality than popular video formats, but with all the benefits of RAW.

IBC 2018, Amsterdam, Netherlands – September 14, 2018 – Blackmagic Design today announced the public beta of Blackmagic RAW, a new and very modern codec that combines the quality and benefits of RAW with the ease of use, speed and file sizes of traditional video formats. Blackmagic RAW is a more intelligent format that gives customers stunning images, incredible performance, cross platform support and a free developer SDK.

The Blackmagic RAW public beta will be demonstrated on the Blackmagic Design IBC 2018 booth at #7.B45. Customers can download the public beta for use with URSA Mini Pro cameras via the Blackmagic Camera 6.0 Beta Update. In addition, DaVinci Resolve 15.1 Update, which includes support for Blackmagic RAW, is also available free of charge from the Blackmagic Design website.

Blackmagic RAW has been in development for years and is a next generation codec that features multiple new technologies such as an advanced de?mosaic algorithm, extensive metadata support, highly optimized GPU and CPU accelerated processing and more. It can be used from acquisition throughout post production for editing and color grading, all from a single file.

Traditional RAW codecs have large file sizes and are processor intensive, making them hard to work with. Video file formats are faster, but suffer quality problems due to the use of 4:2:2 video filters that reduce color resolution. Blackmagic RAW solves these problems with an intelligent design that moves part of the de-mosaic process into the camera where it can be hardware accelerated by the camera itself. This results in incredibly efficient encoding that gives customers the same quality, bit depth, dynamic range and controls as RAW, but with much better performance and smaller file sizes than most popular video codecs. Because the processor intensive partial de-mosaic is done by the camera hardware, software such as DaVinci Resolve doesn’t have to do as much work decoding the files. In addition, GPU and CPU acceleration make decoding of frames incredibly fast, so you get extremely smooth performance for editing and grading.

Blackmagic RAW is much more than a simple RAW container format. Its intelligent design actually understands the camera and the sensor. This means the image data, along with the unique characteristics of the image sensor, are encoded and saved into the Blackmagic RAW file, giving customers much better image quality, even at higher compression settings, as well as total control over features such as ISO, white balance, exposure, contrast, saturation and more.

In addition, Blackmagic RAW uses Blackmagic Design Generation 4 Color Science for superior imaging that results in reproducing extremely accurate skin tones and gorgeous, lifelike colors that rival those of cameras costing tens of thousands of dollars more. Images are encoded using a custom non-linear 12-bit space designed to provide the maximum amount of color data and dynamic range.

Blackmagic RAW also makes it easy for any software developer to access all this technology. The free developer SDK lets any third party software application add Blackmagic RAW support on Mac, Windows and Linux. The Blackmagic RAW developer SDK automatically handles the embedded sensor profile metadata, along with Blackmagic Design color science, for predictable and accurate image rendering that yields consistent color throughout the entire pipeline.

Blackmagic RAW features two types of file compression. Customers can choose either constant quality or constant bitrate encoding options, depending on the kind of work they are doing. This lets them prioritize image quality or file size. Constant quality uses variable bitrate encoding so complex frames are encoded at higher data rates to preserve detail and maintain the highest possible quality. Blackmagic RAW Q0 has minimum quantization and yields the highest quality, while Blackmagic RAW Q5 uses moderate quantization for more efficient encoding and a smaller file size. Blackmagic RAW 3:1, 5:1, 8:1 and 12:1 use constant bitrate encoding to give customers the best possible images with predictable and consistent file sizes. The ratios are based on the unprocessed file size of a single frame from the camera’s sensor, making it easy to understand the relative amount of compression being used.

The pristine camera native quality of Blackmagic RAW Q0 and 3:1 are perfect for effects heavy feature film and commercial work. Blackmagic RAW Q5 and 5:1 are extremely high quality making them great for episodic television and independent films. Blackmagic RAW 8:1 and 12:1 offer high quality and speed, making it suitable for productions that wouldn’t normally consider shooting RAW. Now, more customers than ever will be able to use high quality RAW images in an incredibly efficient way that was impossible before.

“Blackmagic RAW could entirely change the workflow going from camera through post production,” said Kees Van Oostrum, Director of Photography and President of the American Society of Cinematographers. “A superb image quality, fine detail and incredibly small file sizes could possibly make Blackmagic RAW the go to format for filmmakers. It will be an important change for post because the editorial team can work with the camera original files, which are fast enough to use for everyday editing. That means less confusion in regards to creative choices I make at the camera. The images can now travel throughout the entire workflow because we’re shooting, editing and grading with the same files! Blackmagic RAW could be a game changer in the way films, television shows and commercials are made.”

Blackmagic RAW dramatically simplifies and speeds up post production workflows. DaVinci Resolve 15.1, which was also released today, includes full support for Blackmagic RAW. The performance of Blackmagic RAW is much faster in DaVinci Resolve than any other RAW format. This makes editing, color correction and visual effects incredibly fast. In addition, working with single files instead of folders full of still image sequences greatly simplifies media management. When the RAW settings are changed in DaVinci Resolve, a .sidecar file can be generated or updated if one already exists. When opened in other software applications that support Blackmagic RAW, the .sidecar file, which contains the RAW settings made in DaVinci Resolve, will be automatically used to display the image. If the .sidecar file is removed then the file will be displayed using the embedded metadata instead. This innovative new workflow gives customers a non-destructive way to change RAW settings while working between different applications.

Featuring a fully scalable design and completely modern CPU and GPU acceleration, Blackmagic RAW is optimized for AVX, AVX2 and SSE4.1 enabled processors, multi-threaded, works across multiple CPU cores and is GPU accelerated with support for Apple Metal, CUDA and OpenCL. Frame decoding and image processing is extremely fast, making it super smooth for editing, color correction and visual effects in DaVinci Resolve. Another benefit of media being stored as single files, and not image sequences, is it makes media management easier and file copying much faster.

The free Blackmagic RAW Developer SDK is available on Mac OS, Windows and Linux. This SDK takes care of all the work for developers, so adding support for Blackmagic RAW to third party software applications is easy and fast. Developers get access to GPU and CPU accelerated algorithms for decoding files, along with unique information about the camera’s image sensor so their applications can accurately decode and display the files. The SDK features highly descriptive and flexible metadata options designed to support today’s modern workflows. Metadata is embedded directly in the .braw file or it can be stored in a .sidecar file. Metadata is important because it contains the RAW settings along with information for the slate, iris, focus, focal length, white balance and a lot more. The metadata in .sidecar files can be used on top of the embedded metadata without overwriting it. Blackmagic RAW also supports frame based metadata so customers can access values, such as focus distance, that often change on a frame by frame basis.

“Blackmagic RAW is the world’s only truly modern, high performance, professional RAW codec that is open, cross platform and free,” said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. “It’s exciting because customers can get the visually lossless image quality of RAW with the speed of traditional video workflows. Best of all, there are no hidden licenses or ongoing fees. Blackmagic RAW has been designed to provide the industry with an open, elegant and standardized high quality image format that can be used across products and in customer workflows absolutely free!”

Availability and Price

Blackmagic RAW is available today as a public beta via the Blackmagic Camera 6.0 Beta Update for URSA Mini Pro. The final release of Blackmagic RAW is expected to ship in several weeks’ time once further testing is complete.

The DaVinci Resolve 15.1 Update, which features support for Blackmagic RAW, has also been released and can be downloaded today free of charge from the Blackmagic Design website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Flickr announces major update to Galleries section

07 Sep

It’s been fairly quiet around Flickr since it was taken over by SmugMug but now the image sharing platform has announced a major update to its galleries section. The new Flickr galleries come with a redesigned user interface and a number of new tools to “facilitate your creativity.”

In a post on the Flickr Blog the company says that “Flickr’s galleries have long been one of the tools available to our community for visual storytelling, though they have gotten dusty over time as the rest of the site progresses.”

The new layout has been designed for larger screen sizes and resolutions than the previous version and the maximum number of photos in galleries has been increased from 50 to 500. To facilitate work with large numbers of photos you now batch add them to a gallery directly from your Favorites.

“By explicitly connecting Faves to gallery creation, we’re making your workflow simpler when you’re curating your favorite works from other Flickr members,” Flickr says.

On the galleries list page you’ll now find a triptych of photos for each gallery (the cover photo and the two most recent images), plus some metadata.

You can still select any image from the gallery to use it as the cover, edit title and description and reorder images. Galleries can also be shared “with an intuitive share sheet that will improve the presentation of your galleries on other social networks.”

If you are a Flickr user, head over to the Flickr galleries page to check out the redesign and new features.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olloclip announces Multi-Device Clip for smartphone lenses

05 Sep

Olloclip has built a reputation as one of the most successful manufacturers of smartphone accessory lenses. However, so far most Olloclip lenses have had one important limitation: they were device-specific. If you had more than one smartphone you could not use the lenses with all your devices, or if you upgraded to a new handset you usually needed to get new lens clips and/or lenses.

This is now a thing of the past, however. Today Olloclip has announced its new Multi-Device Clip. The clip is designed to work with the company’s Connect X line of interchangeable lenses, which includes several wide-angle options, macro lenses, a telephoto and a fisheye, and works with most smartphones.

The Multi-Device-Clip can expand to fit devices of up to 12mm thickness, meaning it is compatible with screen protectors and you can usually leave your case on as well, when snapping an image with your Olloclip lenses.

Olloclip’s new Multi-Device Clip will be available with any of the Connect X lenses mid-September starting at $ 60. You can sign up for more information on the upcoming release on the Olloclip website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Samyang announces 85mm F1.8 lens for APS-C mirrorless cameras

27 Aug

Samyang has announced an upcoming 85mm F1.8 prime lens for a collection of APS-C format mirrorless camera systems.

The lens, which will also be sold under the Rokinon brand name, is available in Sony E-, Fuji X- and Canon M-mounts, as well as Micro Four Third (MFT) systems. Taking into account the crop factors, the 85mm F1.8 lens will be equivalent to roughly 128mm on Sony E- and Fuji X-mounts, 136mm on Canon M-mounts and 170mm on MFT systems.

The lens is constructed of nine optical elements in seven groups, which includes an Ultra Multi Coating (UMC) to reduce ghosting and chromatic aberration. It relies on manual focusing with a minimum focusing distance of 0.65m/2.13 feet and features a nine-blade aperture diaphragm. The front filter mount is 62mm and the lens comes with a reversible lens hood.

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The Samyang/Rokinon 85mm F1.8 lens is set for a September 2018 release date at an expected MSRP of $ 399.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon announces 64GB and 120GB XQD memory cards

25 Aug

Nikon made quite a splash in the digital imaging world this week with the announcement of its new Z 6 and Z 7 mirrorless cameras. In a much more quiet fashion the company also launched two new XQD memory cards on its Japanese website.

As you would expect, the cards can be used with the new Z-series camera models and with a lot of buzz around the new camera models Nikon is likely hoping to leverage the opportunity and get its foot into the memory card market.

Nikon offers a 64GB and 120GB card and both variants boast a maximum read speed of 440MB/s and a maximum write speed of 400MB/s. At this point there is no pricing information on the Nikon website but the Japanese camera rumor site Nokishita reported a price of ¥17,820 (approximately $ 160) for the 64GB card and ¥29,160 (approximately $ 262) for the 120GB version.

Nikon says both cards will be released in late September 2018, so hopefully more information on pricing outside Japan will be available soon.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon announces development of ‘industry-leading’ full-frame mirrorless system

25 Jul

Two days after publishing a teaser video, Nikon has officially announced the development of its long-awaited full-frame mirrorless system, which will use a new mount. Details are light at this point, with the only product mentioned being an F-mount adapter.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to DSLRs, saying that “Nikon will continue to lead imaging innovation with the launch of the new mirrorless camera and the continued development of Nikon Digital-SLR cameras as well as the impressive NIKKOR lens lineup. Soon, Nikon users will have two industry-leading camera systems to choose from, giving consumers the choice to enjoy the unique values that each system offers.”

More details on the new Nikon mirrorless system will be posted in the weeks to come on a dedicated website and, of course, here on DPReview.

What features are you hoping to see in Nikon’s new mirrorless system? Let us know in the comments below!

NIKON ANNOUNCES DEVELOPMENT OF NEXT GENERATION FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERA AND NIKKOR LENSES—FEATURING A NEW MOUNT—THAT PURSUE A NEW DIMENSION IN OPTICAL PERFORMANCE

MELVILLE, NY (JULY 25, 2018 at 12:01 A.M. EDT) – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the development of a next-generation full-frame (Nikon FX-format) mirrorless camera and NIKKOR lenses featuring a new mount.

The new mirrorless camera and NIKKOR lenses that are in development will enable a new dimension in optical performance with the adoption of a new mount. The system is the result of Nikon’s unsurpassed optical and manufacturing capabilities gained through more than a century of imaging expertise. Proven reliability and trusted performance are core traits of Nikon Digital-SLRs, and decades of feedback from professional creators around the world has further contributed to the development of this system.

Through the development of this new mirrorless camera, Nikon reaffirms our commitment to providing photographers with the ability to capture images that are richer and more vivid than ever before.

Additionally, an F-Mount adapter is being developed that will enable the use of a wide variety of F-Mount NIKKOR lenses with the new camera.

Nikon will continue to lead imaging innovation with the launch of the new mirrorless camera and the continued development of Nikon Digital-SLR cameras as well as the impressive NIKKOR lens lineup. Soon, Nikon users will have two industry-leading camera systems to choose from, giving consumers the choice to enjoy the unique values that each system offers.

Content relating to this product is available for viewing at the following URL: http://www.nikonusa.com/mirrorlessiscoming. Please stay tuned for more information.

Details, including the release date and suggested retail prices, will be shared at a later date.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Peak Design announces 45L Travel Backpack and new system of ‘Packing Tools’

24 Jul

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Peak Design has announced a fresh travel-oriented product line that centers around a 45L carry on-sized Travel Backpack that can be yours for a reduced price through Kickstarter (starting today). Also in the line is a set of set of ‘Packing Tools’ to help keep your gear and personal items organized on the go.

The 45L Travel Backpack has all the bells and whistles of a high-end pack: a weatherproof nylon canvas shell, a rugged bottom liner, a luggage pass-through, full rear and side access, a laptop compartment, luggage handles and tons of organization pockets. It can also be expanded or contracted to fit 35L or 45L worth of stuff.

The 45L Travel Backpack officially hits stores this holiday season for $ 299.95 and will be available in either black or sage

The Packing Tools bring a nice level of versatility and modularity to the 45L Travel Backpack (though could easily be used in any pack). They come in a variety of forms including general packing ‘Cubes’ – useful for items like clothing (available in two sizes) – and ‘Camera Cubes’ for your precious gear (available in three sizes). There are also packing tools specifically for tech odds and ends, toiletries and shoes.

The 45L Travel Backpack is projected to officially hit stores this holiday season for $ 299.95 and will be available in either black or sage. The Packing Tools range in price from $ 24.95 – $ 89.95 and will also be available for the holidays.

Look for a full review of the 45L Travel Backpack on DPReview soon. In the meantime, read our review of the Peak Design Capture Clip V3.

Press Release

Peak Design’s Travel Line Reinvents One-Bag Travel

Travel Backpack 45L and Packing Tools Offer Infinite Customization

San Francisco, CA (July 23, 2018) – Peak Design, the leader in crowdfunding and best-in-class carry solutions, is proud to unveil the first products in their Travel Line: the Travel Backpack 45L and complete system of Packing Tools. With a focus on versatility, organization, and access, the Travel Line aims to satisfy a simple design directive: no two trips are the same, so the best luggage should adapt to them all.

Peak Design was founded during a trip and has grown into a team of prolific travelers who understand life on the road. The Travel Line combines Peak Design’s travel experience with their expertise, innovation, and design philosophies honed through their massively successful photography and everyday bag lines.

The hero of the Travel Line is the Travel Backpack 45L, a carry-on-sized backpack that boasts a collection of best-in- class travel functionality. In addition to full rear access for easy packing, the bag features dual side access, top access to laptop/tablet, and a dedicated front-access organization panel for smaller items. Beefy shoulder and waist straps stowe instantly beneath a magnetically sealed back pad. Expansion zips allow the bag to grow to 45L check-in size, while an innovative compression snap system shrinks the bag down to a 35L daypack. Thoughtful details include 360-degree grab handles, a duffle/luggage carry handle, theft-deterrent zips, hidden passport pockets, a soft- lined sunglasses pocket and tuck-away external carry compression straps. The Travel Backpack comes with a weatherproof 400D nylon canvas shell made from 100% recycled plastics and available in black or sage colorways.

Peak Design Founder and CEO, Peter Dering, rarely stays in any one place longer than two weeks: “From day one, travel has been a primary inspiration to us as photographers, designers, and adventurers. Living on the road is part of our DNA as a brand, and we couldn’t be more excited to have built a set of travel gear that truly adapts to the endless variety of trips we take.”

Accompanying the Travel Backpack is a feature-rich system of Packing Tools that provide endlessly customizable organization and protection of clothes, shoes, toiletries, tech items and photo/video gear. Designed to fit perfectly in Peak Design travel bags, each cube or pouch offers easy access, thoughtful organization, durable materials and a consistent aesthetic cleanliness.

Each Packing Tool was designed from the onset as a standalone product, intended to push their respective category forward with unique patterns, features and innovation. Art Viger, Lead Designer at Peak Design, commented on the system: “When you travel, the things you carry become your home on the road. Each and every one of the pouches and cubes are designed to work as a fluid ecosystem that can be easily re-configured for any type of trip.”

The new Travel Backpack (MSRP: $ 299.95) and Packing Cubes, will be available on Kickstarter (peakdesign.com/ks) for a pre-sale discount beginning July 23, 2018. The system will then be available for purchase online at peakdesign.com and through major retailers in time for the 2018 holiday season.

About Peak Design

Since 2010, Peak Design has been building innovative carry solutions with a simple overarching design directive: make the best things. The idea for our first product was born on a motorcycle trip through Southeast Asia and has since expanded to include a cross-functional ecosystem of bags, pouches, slings, straps, and clips. We’ve won applause along the way, but we’re most proud of the fact that we’re 100% crowdfunded and 100% employee-owned. We’ve raised $ 15.6 Million through 8 Kickstarter campaigns, allowing Peak Design to stay investor-free and focused on the things that matter most: designing great products, fostering happy employees, and taking care of our customers and the natural environment. Learn more at peakdesign.com.

45L Travel Backpack

MSRP: $ 299.95
Available on Kickstarter for a Limited Time: $ 235

Access

  • Full back panel-load access for packing
  • Dual zippered side hatches for instant camera access
  • Quick tablet & laptop access
  • Dedicated front organization panel
  • Soft-lined sunglasses pocket
  • Hidden passport/document pockets
  • Bag sits upright on floor when packed or empty

Expansion & Compression

  • Maximum international carry on size in normal 35L state
  • Expansion zip gives additional 10L of storage (45L max)
  • Compressible down to 30L day bag size
  • Expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods
  • Tuck-away external carry compression straps

Organization

  • Rigidly supported sidewalls for easy packing
  • Zippered dividing panel separates bag into 2 compartments, or stows away for 1 large volume
  • Front organization panel contains 4 zippered mesh pockets for smaller items
  • Mount Camera Cubes (sold separately) internally for back or side access to photo, drone, or video gear
  • Protected luggage tag holder

Comfort & Portability

  • Magnetic strap storage system
  • 360-degree grab handles
  • Full-size padded hip belt with additional pockets and attachment points for Capture & Range Pouch (sold
    separately)
  • Axial strap attachments for shoulder & hip straps give constant comfort for all body types and carry loads
  • Proprietary sternum strap
  • Luggage pass-through and duffel grab handle
  • Back panel folds under for increased ventilation & comfort

Security

  • 400D weatherproof 100% recycled nylon canvas shell
  • DWR impregnated, PU-coated interior for water resistance
  • Oversized #8 (front, side) and #10 (back) main zips are weatherproof and lockable
  • Rugged 900D weatherproof bottom liner
  • Ultralight padded foam provides security, structure, and aesthetic cleanliness around entire bag

Packing Cubes (sold separately):

Packing Cubes (MSRP: Sm – $ 29.95, Md – $ 39.95) – Compressible, easy to access, and dividable, Peak Design Packing Cubes are available in 2 sizes. A tear-away main zip lets you access contents instantly, and an internal divider allows separation of clean and dirty clothes. An expansion/compression zip doubles available space or compresses clothes so you can fit more in your bag.

Wash Pouch (MSRP: $ 59.95) – Dedicated, easy-to-clean pockets for toothbrush and razor. Hangs or sits upright on sink for easy access in tight spaces. Unique folding pocket layout keeps toiletries neatly organized and easy to find.

Tech Pouch (MSRP: $ 59.95) – Designed to store small items like cables, cards, batteries, and travel essentials, Tech Pouch’s unique origami-style pockets create enormous spatial efficiency. Pack more into a smaller space, yet keep all items organized and easy to find.

Camera Cubes (MSRP: Sm – $ 49.95, Md – $ 69.95, Lg – $ 89.95) – Camera Cubes provide protection, organization, and instant access to camera, video, and drone gear. Securely mount Camera Cubes inside the Travel Backpack and access your gear via the rear or side zips. Tuck-away lids let you access camera gear from outside of the bag via a single zip, while a system of intelligently designed dividers allows for endless organization and customization.

Shoe Pouch (MSRP: $ 24.95) – An ultralight, durable, weatherproof pouch for shoes or additional clothing storage.

Rain Fly (MSRP: $ 29.95) – Provides complete waterproof protection to an already weatherproof bag. Rain Fly is made of durable, ultralight 200D rip-stop nylon, adjusts via cinch cord for snug form-fit, and stuffs into a convenient storage pocket.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Godox announces AD400Pro strobe, due out in August

10 Jul

Godox Photo Equipment has announced a new addition to its growing lineup of wireless strobes, the Godox AD400Pro.

As its name suggests, the AD400Pro is a 400WS wireless strobe with a maximum high speed sync speed of 1/8000th of a second. It uses Godox’s 2.4GHz Wireless X System that’s compatible with Canon E-TTL II, Nikon i-TTL autoflash, Sony, Fujifilm, Olympus, and Panasonic TTL systems.

AD400 strobes fill the gap between the current AD200 and AD600Pro strobes, in terms of both size and power. A single AD400Pro weighs just 2.1kg/4.63lbs and measures in at 220x102x128mm/8.66×4.02×5.04in. It can be powered by an AC power source or an included 21.6 volt, 2600mAh battery capable of firing off 390 full-power flashes before needing a charge.

The AD400Pro comes with the new Godox adapter ring for mounting its lineup of accessories, as well as a Bowens adapter to install Bowens lighting accessories. Godox says other, third-party adapters will let you mount accessories from companies such as Broncolor, Prophoto, Elinchrom and others.

The AD400Pro can be updated with new firmware via the onboard USB Type-C port. It also features an onboard 3.5mm sync port for alternative triggering methods.

Included in the box will be one flash, one flash tube, a lithium battery back, a battery charger, a power cord, a reflector, a Bowens-mount adapter, a wrench, and an instruction manual.

A full list of the AD400Pro’s specs, provided by Godox.

In a comment on its Facebook post, GOdox says the AD400Pro will be available starting in August 2018 at an a price that ‘will be announced as soon as possible.’

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Phottix announces larger LED panels with the Kali600

29 Jun

Lighting brand Phottix has announced a new LED panel for videographers and stills photographers called the Kali600. Larger than the company’s hotshoe Nuada series, the Kali600 is designed for location and studio work and to be mounted on a stand.

The panel has 600 LEDs and can produce light across a range of 3200-5600K while offering a maximum brightness of 3000Lux. With a pair of battery plates the panel can be run from two optional Sony NP-type batteries or directly via the mains using the supplied AC adapter. A set of barndoors and a diffuser are included, as is a wireless remote that can be used to control the brightness and color temperature of the output.

The Phottix Kali600 costs $ 170 and is shipping straight away. For more information see the Phottix website.

Press release

Feel the power – Meet the Phottix Kali600 Video LED

Following the success of the Phottix Nuada series LEDs, Phottix is announcing a new LED lighting line-up: the Phottix Kali.

The new series will debut with the Kali600 model – a larger studio-style LED Panel for video and general studio and location photography.

Features:

  • Excellent color rendering – CRI 95+
  • Digital Power Control: 10% – 100%
  • Digital Color Control: 3300K – 5600K
  • Uses 2 Sony-compatible batteries or AC Adapter

The Phottix Kali600 will feature a maximum brightness of 3000Lux (36W). Being both mains and battery powered it can be used in the studio or on-location. The Kali600 offers power and color temperature control – via the panel as well as a wireless radio remote. Barndoors, white diffuser panel and AC Adapter are included.

What’s included:

  • Kali600 LED Main Panel with Barndoors and Diffuser Panel
  • Remote Control Unit
  • AC adapter ( US & UK & AU & EU plug )
  • Printed User Manual

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Loupedeck announces Loupedeck+ with support for Capture One, better controls

20 Jun

Loupedeck – a popular editing console for Adobe Lightroom users – has received a significant update to both its physical characteristics and its overall compatibility with the launch of the Loupedeck+.

In addition to Adobe Lightroom (and Lightroom CC) Loupedeck+ is now compatible with Aurora HDR and Capture One (the later will be beta support at launch, with full compatibility to be offered soon). There are already a few editing consoles on the market that work with Lightroom as well as Capture One, and it’s encouraging to see Loupedeck get in on the Capture One fun as more photographers do.

Physical improvements include better build quality with more responsive mechanical buttons and a greater degree of customization. The Loupedeck+ can be yours for $ 239 – current Loupedeck owners can upgrade for $ 50 off.

Press Release:

Introducing Loupedeck+, the Next Evolution of Custom Photo Editing Console, Loupedeck

Next Generation Includes Skylum Aurora HDR Compatibility, Upgraded Build and More Customization Options, All Based on the Photography Community’s Feedback

HELSINKI, Finland – June 20, 2018 – Loupedeck, the custom photo editing console built with an intuitive design that makes editing faster and more creative, has announced the next evolution, Loupedeck+. While the Loupedeck was the only device on the market custom-built to improve the Adobe Lightroom experience, the Loupedeck+ is now also compatible with popular photo editing software Skylum Aurora HDR(in addition to Adobe Lightroom Classic CC), and is designed with more functionalities, control and increased customization options. Following a year of overwhelming success and customer feedback, the Loupedeck+ was designed in Loupedeck’s headquarters in Finland, with all updates solely based on feedback from the invested photography community.

Specifically, upgrades to the Loupedeck+ include:

  • Mechanical keys with a more precise and sturdy feel
  • Improved build quality
  • Two dedicated customizable dials and seventeen buttons
  • “Custom Mode” that allows full user control of all dials
  • Configuration software built from scratch for an even better, faster and more stable photo editing experience

“We know how dedicated both the professional and amateur photography communities are in their work, and we’re committed to making their lives easier and more productive,” said Mikko Kesti, Founder and CEO of Loupedeck. “There’s no better way to create the next evolution of our flagship product than by going straight to the source and taking their feedback to heart. By adding even more control, efficiency and customization options to the editing process, we’re able to help photographers be more successful by increasing their output and artistry, and look forward to continue supporting them in their work.”

Following Loupedeck’s new partnership with Skylum, the Loupedeck+ will include future integrations with Skylum’s other professional photo editing products, including Skylum Luminar. It is also currently in beta integration with Capture One, with full integration on the way, as well as additional software integrations to follow later this year. These options will provide photographers with a more diverse, intuitive experience, helping to expedite the editing process and maximize the photo editing experience.

“Skylum and Loupedeck share the same vision. We want to help photographers create great photos, differently,” said Alex Tsepko, CEO of Sklyum. “When I discovered that the new version of Loupedeck keyboard is coming out, I knew Skylum software should be the first to support it. This is the kind of innovation modern photographers really need.”

The Loupedeck+ is available for purchase in the Loupedeck Online Store, B&H Photo and Amazon.com for $ 239. Loupedeck is also offering a cashback opportunity of $ 50 for current Loupedeck owners.

For more information visit www.loupedeck.com.

About Loupedeck

Loupedeck, the company behind the Loupedeck+, is the only photo editing console custom-built to improve the Adobe Lightroom and Skylum Aurora HDR experience, with an intuitive design that makes editing faster and more creative. It allows both professional and amateur photographers to improve the ergonomics of editing, comfortably increasing output. Loupedeck’s hands-on and highly intuitive console minimizes the use the mouse and keyboard, and it works seamlessly with Apple and PC operating systems.

Headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, Loupedeck was founded in 2016 with a highly successful Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign that exceeded its original target by 488 percent. For more information, visit www.loupedeck.com.

About Skylum Software

Skylum Software (formerly Macphun) is a Washington-based photo software developer with the mission to make complex photo editing simple and user-friendly. Thanks to its innovative approach and high-end proprietary technologies, Skylum products have won dozens of various awards, including “Best of the Year” awards by Apple for six straight years. Luminar was honored with the “Best Imaging Software 2017” award by TIPA and “Best Software Plugin” in October 2017 by the Lucie Technical Awards. Aurora HDR was selected as the “Best Mac App of 2017” by Apple.

To learn more about Skylum, please visit http://skylum.com/.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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