360Photography

Tag: Camera

  • Fujifilm Camera Remote app version 4.0.0 for Android is now live with new UI and more

    Fujifilm promised back in April that the Android version of its Fujifilm Camera Remote app would be available in May. Now, with only a few days to spare, it fulfilled its promise, releasing version 4.0.0 on the Google Play Store.

    Like the iOS version, the new Android version features an updated user interface and many other features designed to streamline the remote capture process.

    The new interface sheds wasted space and is specifically designed to make use of smartphones with larger displays. Additionally, Fujifilm has simplified the pairing process and added a new ‘Album’ feature, making it easier to sort through images transferred to the device. Other improvements include support for new cameras and numerous bug fixes.

    Below is a list of features the Fujifilm Camera Remote app provides, according to the app’s description:

    • Transferring images and movies to a Smartphone
    • Browsing the Camera from a Smartphone
    • Downloading Location Data from a Smartphone
    • Shooting Images by Remote Control(*)
    • Easily transfer pictures from the cameras that offer Bluetooth capability.
    • Synchronizing “date and time” and/or “location information” with the cameras that offers Bluetooth capability
    • Firmware update via a Smartphone to the cameras that offers Bluetooth capability.
    • Bluetooth wireless remote control camera shutter release is now supported for cameras that offers Bluetooth capability.
      *How to change the setting depends on your camera.

    Fujifilm’s X-T30, GFX 50R, X-T3, XF10, X-H1 and X-E3 cameras support all the above features while the FinePix XP140 supports all but number seven. The X-T100, X-A5 and FinePix XP130 support features one through six and the GFX 50S, X-T20, X100F, X-A10, X-A3, X-T2, X-Pro2, X-E2S, X70, X-T10, X-T1, X30, X100T, X-E2, FinePix XP120, FinePix XP90, FinePix XP80, FinePix S9900W and FinePix S9950W support features one through four. Wrapping up, the X-E2, XQ2, XQ1, X-A2, X-A1, X-M1 and FinePix Z1100EXR support features one through three while the FinePix Z1000EXR only supports the transfer of images and movies.

    Fujifilm Camera Remote version 4.0.0 is live in the Google Play Store for free and works with smartphones running Android 5.0 or later. Geotagging functionality only works with devices equipped with LTE connectivity.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Ricoh announces minor 1.11 firmware update for its GR III camera system

    Ricoh has released firmware version 1.11 for its GR III camera. It’s not a major update, but if you own a GR III, it’s still worth your time to update it.

    According to the changelog, firmware version 1.11, an upgrade from 1.10, corrects an issue where playing back a movie on the camera caused the frame rate to drop, as well as an issue where the incorrect firmware was displayed when the GR III was plugged into a macOS computer. Additionally, the update smooths out a number of under-the-hood problems for improved stability.

    To update the firmware on your GR III, follow the following steps, as shared by Ricoh:

    [1] Provide a formatted SD memory card for the update software. The download file is self-extracting. The following file is extracted. fwdc239b.bin: This is the updated firmware Copy the above Firmware file [fwdc239b.bin] to the root directory in the SD card.
    [2] Insert the battery into the camera and confirm the battery is full by battery level indicator then turn the camera off.
    [3] Insert the update SD card (prepared in step 1) into the camera and close card cover.
    [4] Turn the camera power on while pressing [Menu] button.
    [5] [Update the camera firmware] is displayed Select [Execute] by 4-way button and press [OK] button.
    [6] The firmware update will start and [Updating] is displayed. *Do not turn OFF the camera while updating.
    [7] When update is completed, “Update completed” will be displayed
    [8] Turn OFF the camera and remove the SD card from camera. *Confirm the version of firmware with above [How to check version].
    [Caution] When updating is finished, the update SD card still contains the Firmware file. If you want to use this card to take pictures, format the card by the camera to delete firmware file first.

    You can download the firmware update (28MB) for macOS and Windows computers on the Ricoh GR III download page.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Fujifilm teases new Instax camera with LCD screen ahead of June 12 launch event

    Fujifilm has announced the upcoming launch of a new Instax camera model. Full details about the new instant camera won’t be released until June 12, but the company did tease one key feature in the below tweet on May 27: the inclusion of a small LCD. The new Instax model will be ‘perfect for the new age,’ Fujifilm’s tweet states.

    The ‘new era’ of Instax cameras will include multiple ‘very special features,’ Fujifilm teased in its tweet, one of which is the LCD. The new model will include the same instant color printing capability found on other Instax models, but it’s unclear what new features Fujifilm plans to include.

    The current Instax product line features more than a dozen models, including the relatively new Square SQ20 instant ‘hybrid’ digital camera, which features an LCD for previewing images before printing.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • X-Rite’s ColorChecker Camera Calibration software gets DNG support, more in 2.0 update

    X-Rite has released an update for its ColorChecker Passport software that adds a few new features to help get the most accurate colors possible in your photography workflow.

    ColorChecker Camera Calibration software version 2.0 (updated from version 1.2.0) has added support for X-Rite’s Digital ColorChecker SG target and now offers the ability to produce camera profiles for both the DNG and ICC color management workflows.

    The software update is available for macOS and Windows computer systems and is available to download from X-Rite’s support page.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Waterproof camera buying guide updated, Olympus TG-6 wins recommendation

    We’ve updated our waterproof camera buying guide with the latest round of rugged compacts, and we’ve crowned a new winner as the best pick in the category: the Olympus TG-6. That is, unless you happen to find a good deal on the TG-5.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Elderly camera store owner suffers broken arm during violent robbery

    K&R Photographics, located in Crescent Springs, Kentucky, is the latest camera shop to report the theft of expensive camera equipment. According to store co-owner Rob Kumler, who spoke with Cincinnati ABC affiliate WCPO, his 70-year-old wife and shop co-owner Wilma was attacked by masked, armed men who broke into the store on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 22.

    According to Kumler, Wilma was thrown to the ground roughly and suffered a broken arm as a result. ‘Tens of thousands of dollars’ in high-end camera equipment was stolen. In addition to harming Wilma and stealing the hardware, the robbers accidentally dropped and destroyed a $ 12,000 camera.

    The masked thieves were reportedly armed with a gun and a hammer; they are said to have immediately moved toward the most expensive equipment in the store, indicating that at least one had likely been in the store prior to the robbery. Four security cameras were live in the store at the time of the assault and theft.

    Kumler points out that due to the expensive, high-end nature of the stolen equipment, the thieves will likely struggle to find buyers who both need the gear and are willing to purchase it without asking questions about its origins. ‘High-end cameras,’ Kumler said, ‘that’s a small market.’

    The store maintains a Facebook Page, but hasn’t yet posted about the robbery; it’s unclear whether police or Kumler plan to publish a list of the stolen equipment’s serial numbers. The public is encouraged to contact Villa Hills law enforcement with any information related to the violent robbery.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Samsung starts mass-production of 5x tele smartphone camera module

    Image: etnews/Samsung

    Huawei started the trend for longer zoom reach on smartphone cameras with the 5x periscope-style tele camera in the Huawei P30 Pro. OPPO followed soon after with a similar system in the OPPO Reno 10x.

    It’s only a question of time before we’ll see 5x teles from the other major manufacturers and everything points towards Samsung being next in line. Samsung Electro-Mechanics (SEM) has kick-started mass production of a new camera module with 5x optical tele and if the rumors can be trusted we will see the new module in the upcoming Galaxy Note device generation.

    Image: etnews/Samsung

    According to a report by Korean publication etnews the camera module will have a very slim 5mm profile which eliminates the need for a ‘camera hump’ on the back of the device. Like in the Huawei solution, a refracting prism is used to channel incoming light onto the sensor. The module will be aligned vertically in the device.

    Sample shots from the new system show off magnifications at standard, 2x and 5x settings but we’ll have to wait for the final product to see if the Samsung module’s image quality can compete with the Huawei and OPPO solutions.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Olympus’s TG-6 waterproof camera is a modest update to its predecessor

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    Olympus’s Tough TG-5 is one of our favorite underwater cameras, and the company today introduced its replacement, the TG-6. The TG-6 is a modest update to its predecessor, with the majority of its changes related to macro and underwater shooting. The company also added an anti-reflective coating to the glass surrounding the sensor, to reduce flare and ghosting.

    The TG-6 has the same design as its predecessor, though it’s LCD now has 1.04 million dots, compared to 460k dots on the TG-5. Unfortunately, we found that the display scratches just as easily as before: disappointing for a ‘tough’ camera. Its rugged credentials are unchanged: The camera is waterproof to 15m (50ft), shockproof from 2.4m (7ft), crushproof to 100kgf (220lbf) and freezeproof to -10°C/+14°F.

    As before, the TG-6 has a GPS with a compass, manometer, thermometer and accelerometer. A tracking feature associates the location a photo with the data captured with above sensors (via an app).

    The TG-5’s microscope mode has been improved upon on the TG-6, with the ability to enlarge the subject by over 44x while at its minimum focus distance of 1cm (0.2″). Microscope mode can be now used in program and aperture priority mode, unlike on the TG-5. The camera offers both focus stacking (now with a selectable range of shots) and focus bracketing.

    The complete underwater system for the TG-6

    On the underwater side, there are new underwater microscope modes, along with new white balance options for shallow, midrange and deep water shooting. As before, the TG-6 has a full system of underwater accessories available, including housings and flashes.

    Accessories for the TG-6

    Lastly, there’s accessories. The TG-6 continues to support the LG-1 light guide (ring light) and FD-1 flash diffuser, as well as the TCON-01 1.7x telephoto and FCON-T01 fisheye conversion lenses. New accessories include the FCON-T02 fisheye lens, which can switch from circular to diagonal views by adjusting the focal length. There’s also a new lens barrier (LB-T01) that you’d normally find on a point-and-shoot camera.

    The Tough TG-6 will be available in your choice of red or black, and will be priced at $ 449 when it ships in late June. Prices for the numerous accessories are listed in the press release below.

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    Press Release:

    OLYMPUS TOUGH TG-6® RUGGED COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA

    Perfect for Outdoor Shooting with Tough Performance, Macro Functions and a Newly Developed Circular Fisheye Converter

    CENTER VALLEY, Pa., May 22, 2019 – Olympus expands rugged and underwater shooting capabilities with the new Olympus Tough TG-6, a compact digital camera with reliable Tough performance for shooting anytime and anywhere. It features a blazing fast, wide-angle f/2.01 lens, back-lit high-speed CMOS sensor and powerful TruePicTM VIII image processor, providing the ability to capture stills and video with brilliant color and stunning detail. The Tough TG-6 is waterproof to a depth of 50 feet (15m)2, dustproof3, shockproof to 7 feet (2.4m)4, crushproof to 100 kgf5, freezeproof to 14oF (-10°C)6, and features a dual-pane protective glass construction for superb anti-fogging performance. Its Variable Macro System goes beyond the limits of the eye with ultra-close-up shooting up to 1cm from the front of the lens7. Full- featured underwater shooting modes and a new fisheye converter lens that supports circular fisheye photography are available for the Tough TG-6, along with a full lineup of other accessories for expanded shooting possibilities, making this truly the strongest field camera available.

    Tough Performance for Shooting Anytime

    Sealing throughout the entire camera body and double-lock construction on the camera battery cover are designed to provide waterproof performance to a depth of 50 feet for underwater shooting and excellent dustproof capabilities for use in dirty and dusty locations. Its floating construction protects the inside of the camera, clearing drop tests up to seven feet, and the reinforced body withstands loads up to 100 kgf. The Tough TG-6 is also freezeproof down to 14oF, and the nitrogen-filled, hermetically sealed dual-pane protective glass construction prevents condensation and fogging for reliable shooting even in locations with severe temperature fluctuations.

    High-Quality Images

    The Olympus Tough TG-6 is equipped with a high resolution, high-speed f/2.0 zoom lens and a high- speed back-lit CMOS image sensor, offering excellent high-sensitivity performance and allowing you to capture bright, richly detailed images in low-light settings, ideal for shooting fast moving subjects. Anti- reflective (AR) coating incorporated in the image sensor’s sealing glass minimizes ghosting and flares. The TruePicTM VIII image processor, found in the award-winning Olympus OM-D E-M1X® professional model, is featured on this model, reducing noise levels and improving resolution in low contrast areas. RAW data can be recorded and then edited in post-production using the Olympus Workspace image editing software.

    Variable Macro System

    Conquer macro photography and creatively capture intricate detail using any of the four shooting modes, opening a new world of macro shooting. This close-up shooting performance allows high-quality image capture of the microscopic world that the human eye cannot see. A closest focusing distance of 1cm is possible for close-up shots even in Program and Aperture modes for more flexible photography.

    The Flash Diffuser FD-1 (sold separately) uses the in-camera flash to illuminate the subject, offering a significant increase in the amount of light. This increase in light allows for usage of lower ISO settings and faster shutter speeds, as well as an increased working distance. The FD-1 can also be utilized under water.

    Microscope Mode

    With Microscope Mode, users can capture high-quality, detailed images of tiny subjects that are difficult to see with the naked eye, such as the antennae and feet of insects, the veins of a leaf on a tree, snowflakes, etc. A maximum shooting magnification of 7x8 is possible when the optical zoom is set to the telephoto end and the subject is 1 cm away from the front of the lens, delivering magnified shots similar to using a microscope.

    Microscope Control Mode

    Switch display magnification ratios with the press of a single button similar to switching microscope objective lenses for observing and photographing subjects at 1x, 2x, and 4x. When the subject is 1 cm from the front of the lens while using this mode, the image on the rear LCD monitor can zoom in up to 44.4x.

    Focus Stacking Mode9

    Focus stacking mode captures multiple shots while automatically shifting the focus from the foreground to the background. Only the areas in focus are extracted and merged, resulting in a full pixel photo with a deep depth of focus. This is particularly effective for macro shooting when shots have a shallow depth of field and a narrow range of focus. Between 3 and 10 shots can be set on the Tough TG-6 so users can fine tune settings for different subjects and precision in their finished image.

    Focus Bracketing Mode

    With a single shot, this function captures up to 30 images while shifting the focus from the foreground to the background. Three levels of focal shift and number of shots can be selected to perfectly match the subject and shooting conditions. This feature is convenient for instantly setting the focal position when shooting flower petals or the wings of insects, etc.

    The LED Light Guide, LG-1 (sold separately) uses the LED on the front of the camera to evenly illuminate the subject while the image is being taken. The LG-1 also assists with composing the image, acting as a constant light source to illuminate the subject.

    Dive Deep Into Underwater Photography

    To expand the possibilities of underwater shooting ever further, the Tough TG-6 is equipped with five underwater shooting modes optimized for various situations, allowing the user to capture sharp, colorful underwater photos at all depths. The popular Underwater White Balance mode now offers three options, providing appropriate color adjustment for deep water shooting. The new Fisheye Converter FCON-T02 (sold separately), for circular fisheye photography is now available, offering a versatile lineup of accessories to further expand shooting creativity.

    Five Underwater Modes

    • Underwater Wide: Optimized for shooting in dim underwater conditions and capable of shooting in deeper water.

    • Underwater Snapshot: Records subjects using the natural lighting in pools and other shallow water for natural-looking photos.

    • Underwater Macro: Perfect for close-up shots of small subjects such as little fish.

    • Underwater Microscope: Captures even smaller subjects up to 1 cm from the front of the lens.

    • Underwater HDR: Dramatically recreates the scene without losing details in dark areas.

    Three Underwater White Balance Modes10

    • Underwater Shallow: Recommended for use in water depths up to approximately 10 feet deep to improve the red tones that tend to occur in shallow water.

    • Underwater Mid-Range: Optimally tunes the color for general use in water from 10-50 feet deep.

    • Underwater Deep: For use with the new Underwater Case PT-059 (sold separately) in water deeper than 50 feet, particularly for improving the blue tones in photos.

    Fisheye Converter, FCON-T02

    The new Fisheye Converter FCON-T02 (sold separately) delivers both circular fisheye photography and diagonal fisheye photography via zooming control. It can function even underwater for zoomed-in shots. The Converter Adapter CLA-T01 (sold separately) is required to attach this lens. FCON-T02 is only compatible with the Tough TG-6.

    Advanced Video Functions

    The Olympus Tough TG-6 is equipped with Ultra HD 4K Movie, ideal for recording beautiful scenery in amazing detail. Full HD 120fps High-Speed Movie is also included to capture high quality split-second moments with playback in stunning slow motion.

    Field Sensor System

    The Olympus Tough TG-6 is equipped with a Field Sensor System, using tracking information obtained from various sensors in the camera to record data, including the GPS11, manometer, temperature sensor, and compass. Data can then be synced to photos and video and viewed in the free Olympus Image Track (OI.Track) smartphone app. Simply press the INFO button, even when the camera is off, to display data.

    Pro Capture Mode

    Never miss a shot! Pro Capture Mode shoots sequentially at 10 frames-per-second (fps) for 0.5 seconds before the shutter button is pressed fully, making it perfect for capturing shots where timing may be difficult, such as an insect in flight or a drop of liquid splashing.

    High Definition LCD monitor

    The new rear LCD monitor now features a 1.04 million-pixel high-definition resolution for improved visibility. The brightness and color saturation are optimally tuned for use outdoors.

    Date Imprint

    It is now possible to embed the date and time of capture into still images for convenience and reference later. Users can turn this feature on and off to best fit their needs.

    Lens Barrier, LB-T01

    The new lens barrier LB-T0112 protects the lens surface from scratches and dirt. The barrier opens and closes easily for smooth operation, even while wearing gloves.

    Silicone Jacket, CSCH-127

    This accessory protects the surface of the camera body from scratches. It also provides a solid grip on the camera when shooting during winter sports and water sports. LED Light Guide LG-1 and Flash Diffuser FD-1 can function with the silicone jacket attached to the camera.

    Underwater Case, PT-05913

    Designed exclusively for the Tough TG-6, this case can function down to a depth of 148 feet. The camera control dial is operable even when the camera is stored in the case for easy exposure compensation control underwater. Two external flash units for underwater photography (UFL-3) are compatible for multi- unit flash photography in a compact system.

    Lithium Ion Battery Charger, UC-92

    This new, compact battery charger can fully charge the Lithium Ion Battery LI-92B using a USB port in approximately 2 hours.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Olympus Tough TG-6 will be available in red and black beginning in late June 2019, with suggested retail prices of $ 449.99 USD and $ 579.99 CAD.

    Accessory Pricing

    PT-059 Underwater Housing: $ 299.99 USD; $ 329.99 CAD Lens Barrier LB-T01: $ 49.99 USD; $ 59.99 CAD
    Flash Diffuser FD-1: $ 51.99 USD; $ 64.99 CAD
    LED Light Guide LG-1: $ 40.99 USD; $ 40.99 CAD

    Circular Fisheye Converter FCON-T02 & Adapter CLA-T01 Tough Pack Kit: $ 224.99 USD; $ 292.99 CAD Fisheye Converter FCON-T01 & Adapter CLA-T01 Tough Pack Kit: $ 139.98 USD; $ 139.98 CAD Teleconverter TCON-T01 & Adapter CLA-T01 Tough Pack Kit: $ 129.98 USD; $ 129.98 CAD
    CLA-T01 Adapter: $ 19.99 USD; $ 19.99 CAD

    Lens Cap LC-40.5 (fits on CLA-T01 Adapter): $ 7.49 USD; $ 9.99 CAD Lens Filter PRF-D40.5 PRO: $ 51.99 USD; $ 51.99 CAD

    1. At the wide-angle end of 25mm (35mm equivalent)
    2. Waterproof performance is JIS/IEC protection class 8 (IPX8) equivalent. All measurements are according to Olympus testing conditions, and do not guarantee protection from damage or malfunction under all conditions
    3. Dustproof performance is JIS/IEC protection class 6 (IP6X) equivalent. All measurements are according to Olympus testing conditions, and do not guarantee protection from damage or malfunction under all conditions.
    4. Compliant with MIL-STD810F. This model cleared drop tests under Olympus in-house testing conditions; however, Olympus does not guarantee protection from damage or malfunction under all conditions. Olympus in-house shockproof testing conditions: Drop height: 2.1 m, Drop surface: Plywood (lauan laminate), Drop orientation: 26 directions for each surface, each side, and each corner. Drop test was performed once for each direction.
    5. Kilogram force (kgf) is the unit for measuring force exerted on an object. All measurements are according to Olympus testing conditions, and do not guarantee protection from damage or malfunction under all conditions.
    6. The number of recordable still images is reduced at low temperatures.
    7. Super Macro setting required
    8. 35mm equivalent.
    9. Use of a tripod is recommended. Processing may take longer than usual.
    10. White balance can also be changed manually.
    11. GPS: Global Positioning System. To use GPS Assist data, information must be updated via the internet. A PC or smartphone with an internet connection is required. GPS Assist Data must be updated every 2 weeks. Depending on the country/region of use, different laws and regulations may be applicable regarding the use of the GPS function. Be sure to follow local laws and regulations.
    12. Cannot be used together with Silicone Jacket CSCH-127.
    13. The Field Sensor System will not operate properly when the camera is stored in the underwater case. Make sure to set the Log Lever to the off position when using the case. Use together with silica gel for best results.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Honor 20 Pro launches with F1.4 aperture and dedicated macro camera

    Huawei sub-brand Honor has launched its new flagship smartphone and, as rumored, the Honor 20 Pro is the first smartphone to come with an F1.4 aperture in its primary camera. But that’s not the only news. The new model also comes with a dedicated 2MP macro camera that has been optimized for image capture at a subject distance of only 1.5 inches (4cm) and uses a F2.2 aperture.

    The primary camera features a 48MP Sony IMX586 1/2″ Quad-Bayer sensor that produces 12MP image output. The lens is optically stabilized.

    The tele lens has an equivalent focal length of approximately 80mm and an F2.4 aperture. It also comes with OIS. Finally, there’s a 16MP ultra wide-angle camera with a 117-degree field of view and F2.2 aperture.

    A AIS Super Night Mode captures several frames in quick succession, discard the blurry or otherwise unusable ones, and merges the rest into one high-quality low-light image. The 48MP AI Ultra Clarity Mode uses similar methods for additional detail in bright light.

    The front camera offers a 32MP pixel count and is located inside a hole in the 6.26” 1080p+ LCD display. The device is powered by the same Kirin 980 chipset as the Huawei P30 Pro and comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB storage. The 4,000mAh battery can be charged from flat to 50% in 30 minutes.

    The Honor 20 Pro will be available soon at a price point that makes it look like an attractive alternative to some more established competitors. The device will cost you €600 ($ 670) in Europe. No pricing information for other regions has been released yet.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Nikon issues technical service advisory for VR issue in certain Z6, Z7 camera units

    Nikon has issued a technical service advisory for a number of Z6 and Z7 cameras regarding an issue where Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology ins’t fully functioning on particular units.

    Nikon doesn’t elaborate on what’s causing the issue with the VR malfunction in the affected Z6 and Z7 cameras, but says it will repair affected devices free of charge, including the cost of shipping, even if the warranty on the camera has expired.

    A screenshot of the Z7 serial number checker website.

    To aid in determining if your unit is an affected one, Nikon has set up dedicated webpages where you can enter your Nikon Z6 and/or Nikon Z7 serial numbers and see if it’s affected and covered by the advisory. No specific serial number ranges have been presented, so the only way to find out is to use the dedicated webpages.

    If your camera is affected, the webpage will provide instructions on how to get your camera(s) repaired. If your camera is experiencing VR issues and isn’t recognized by Nikon’s serial number checker, Nikon requests you go through its support platform to address the issue.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)