360Photography

Tag: Camera

  • Leica releases limited ‘Safari’ edition M10-P camera, Summicron-M 50mm F2 lens

    Leica has announced the launch of a limited edition Leica M10-P Edition ‘Safari’ camera and accompanying Summicron-M 50mm F2 Edition ‘Safari’ lens.

    The launch of the limited edition pieces continues Leica’s tradition of olive green camera releases. In Leica’s own words, ‘Leica cameras with the olive green enamel finish were originally designed and created for hard-wearing military use, as they were seen as robust and reliable tools that consistently delivered under extreme conditions.’

    The Leica M10-P Edition ‘Safari’ is identical to its less colorful counterpart in terms of specs and includes a full-grain cowhide leather carrying strap as well as a matching leather case for memory cards and credit cards, both of which were designed to ‘complement the unique aesthetic of the limited edition camera.’

    The Leica Summicron-M 50mm F2 Edition ‘Safari’ lens is the first time a Leica M lens will be available in the olive green finish. Aside from the new color, the limited edition lens features a distance scale and focal length engravings that are hand-filled with red paint to ‘contrast to the other bright white engravings on the lens.’ Like the camera, this lens is identical to its black and silver counterparts.

    Interestingly, the camera and lens are being sold separately with no option of getting them together as a kit. Leica says the M10-P Edition ‘Safari’ camera body is available today for $ 8,450 in a limited run of 1,500 units while the matching lens will be available on February 15, 2019 for $ 2,750 in a run of just 500 units. Both the camera body and lens are available for pre-order at B&H.

    Leica Camera Continues a Longstanding Tradition with the Leica M10-P and Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 “Safari” Limited Editions

    The first-ever release of a Leica M-Lens in the olive green coloring accompanies the fifth iteration of “Safari” camera offerings

    January 31, 2019 – The launch of the limited Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” camera and Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” lens reopens a beloved chapter in Leica Camera’s ongoing tradition of special olive green camera releases. Dating back nearly 60 years, the eye-catching finish has recurred throughout the brand’s rich history, making each rare piece highly sought after among Leica collectors and enthusiasts alike. Leica carries forth this tradition with the new limited edition camera body and limited edition lens in the olive green enamel finish, which when paired together, create the perfect symbiosis of functionality, design and history.

    Leica cameras with the olive green enamel finish were originally designed and created for hard-wearing military use, as they were seen as robust and reliable tools that consistently delivered under extreme conditions. The rugged aesthetic of the Leica M1 “Olive” for the German armed forces, made in 1960, proved to be a great success from its onset. The subsequent olive green Leica M3 and M4 cameras were also created exclusively for the rigors of military use in the field, however, in response to rising popularity and increasing demand, in 1977 the olive green Leica R3 “Safari” camera became the first of its ilk to be created for sale to the general public. As popularity grew and the legacy carried on over the years, Leica Camera launched the M6 TTL “Safari” in 2000, the M8.2 “Safari” in 2008 and, most recently in 2015, the M-P (Typ 240) “Safari.” Each piece, a significant highlight in Leica’s historic lineage and timeline of milestones.

    Today, Leica continues the tradition of these unique and storied cameras with the Leica M10-P Edition “Safari”, a modern take on the olive green finish, at its core containing the same performance and technical capabilities of the standard Leica M10-P and its industry-leading quiet mechanical shutter. The limited edition camera is accompanied by a leather carrying strap as well as a matching leather case for SD memory cards and credit cards. Both accessories are crafted from brandy-colored, genuine full-grain cowhide and complement the unique aesthetic of the limited edition camera, of which there are only 1,500 units available worldwide.

    For the first time in Leica’s history, a Leica M-Lens will be available in the legendary olive green finish. The matching Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” will be offered separately from the camera, with only 500 units being made available. In addition to the special enamel finish, the Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” is distinguished by its distance scale and focal length engravings, which are precisely engraved and carefully hand-filled in red paint – in contrast to the other bright white engravings on the lens. The technical specifications and optical performance are identical to those of the well-regarded production model, though the artful coloring and compact design of this high-performance standard lens makes it an attractive addition to any photographer’s set of Leica M equipment.

    Every bit of visible metal components of the Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” and the Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” lens are crafted from solid brass. The premium enamel finish in olive green makes the camera and lens resistant to finger marks and scratches, providing enduring protection against external elements such as solvents, chemicals and UV light to ensure a long-lasting look that can stand the test of time and transcend generations, just as its forebears before it.

    The Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” camera body is available for sale today for $ 8,450. The Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” premium lens will be available starting February 15th for $ 2,750. Both camera and lens are sold separately at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • ZTE appears to be getting ready to launch smartphone with 32MP front camera

    Smartphone front cameras used to be overshadowed by their counterparts on the rear of mobile devices, offering low pixel counts, fixed focus lenses and generally simple specs. This is changing quickly, however, with some front cameras on the latest high-end smartphones featuring high-resolution sensors, AF-systems, computational bokeh modes, HDR and other advanced functions.

    It looks like ZTE is now about to take things to a new level by launching a smartphone with a 32MP front-facing camera. The new device, which is said to be the ZTE Blade V10, has emerged in a regulatory filing on China’s TENAA website and is thought to use Samsung’s ISOCELL GD1 sensor.

    The latter comes with a 0.8 micron pixel pitch and pixel-binning technology, merging four adjacent pixels into one for better dynamic range and lower noise levels. The sensor also comes with real-time video HDR, so the ZTE could be a good option in difficult high-contrast scenes.

    Other specs put the new model into the mid-range bracket of the market. There’ll be a 6.3-inch full-HD+ LCD display, an octa-core chipset and a 3,100mAh battery, according to the filings. The main camera comes with a 16MP primary sensor and a 5MP secondary sensor, likely for depth sensing.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera

    The post 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Kunal Malhotra.

    How to take sharp photos is one of the most common issues a beginner photographer faces. In order to suggest a few important tips, I went back a few years and recalled the issues I used to come across.

    Here are five tips I learned over the years to ensure I always take sharp photos using any camera.

    1. Select Maximum AF Points

    1 - 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera

    Every digital camera has a certain number of focus points, which are used by the camera to lock focus. By default, you can either allow the camera to use all the focus points or reduce them to a specific number such as 11, 9 or even one point.

    I make sure that I am making use of all the focus points, to minimize the use of ‘focus and recompose.’ Keeping all the focus points active ensures that you get to use the entire focusing area on the sensor. Whereas, reducing the active focus points makes you focus and recompose the frame, resulting in soft focus.

    2. 1-point AF

    2 - 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera

    In the majority of situations, using single-point autofocus can help you nail the focus. Because if you allow the camera to lock focus as per its functionality automatically, there are chances that the focus might go off.

    Assume you are taking a portrait, and in order to achieve crisp focus, you wish to focus on the eye of the subject. While using autofocus point selection, chances are, the camera might focus on the nose or the lips. The reason this happens is the camera does not know that you want to want to focus on the eye specifically.

    Now by using the single-point autofocus feature, you can manually select the point where your eye is in the frame. Doing so, allows you to get the accurate focus on the eye, without any hit and trial method.

    3. Back Button focus technique

    3 - 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera

    There are some situations when you try to focus on a subject and the camera takes some time before you can fully press the shutter release button. Alternatively, when you want to take photos in Burst Mode the camera misses focussing on a few shots. You can eliminate these issues and achieve accurate focus by using the back button focus method.

    The Back Button focus technique allows you to assign a button placed on the rear side of your camera to focus, and the shutter release button when pressed fully, captures the image.

    While using this technique, you will realize that on pressing the shutter release button halfway, nothing happens. This is because another button using your thumb is now controlling the focusing.

    4. Use of Shutter Priority

    4 - 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera

    If you are a wildlife, action or sports photographer, there might have been instances where you were not able to freeze the motion of your subject. Moreover, if you shoot in low-lighting conditions, you might have encountered shake in your photos.

    In any of the above situations, I make sure that I am using my camera on Shutter Priority mode. The basic rule that I start with is using the shutter speed 1/2x of the focal length. For example, while shooting at 50mm, I ensure that I start shooting by using 1/100 sec (1/2×50 = 1/100). In the worst situations, I reduce the shutter speed by 1-2 stops if my lens supports Image Stabilization.

    Using the Shutter Priority mode ensures that your camera is using a specific shutter speed that results in no or minimum shake in the image. If you wish to freeze the motion of a moving subject, you can dial a fast shutter speed like 1/2000 sec and let the camera do the remaining math.

    5. Take backup shots

    The last important tip to get sharp photos would be to take a few backup shots during your shoot. Imagine if you are doing a commercial shoot and when you return to your editing desk you realize that the subject is out of focus or the image is not sharp.

    Make sure that after clicking the desired photo, you take a few extra photos of the same frame. These backup photos reduce the risk and increase the possibility of getting sharp photos.

    In the past 8-9 years, these five tips have helped me to nail focus in almost any situation and deliver quality work to my clients.

    Do you have other tips? Do share your views in the comment below.

    The post 5 Secret Tips to Take Sharp Photos Using Any Camera appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Kunal Malhotra.


    Digital Photography School

  • How to Add a Toy Camera Effect to Your Digital Images Using Photoshop

    The post How to Add a Toy Camera Effect to Your Digital Images Using Photoshop appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Megan Kennedy.


    They may look cute, but toy cameras aren’t actually toys at all. The name refers to inexpensive film cameras made predominantly of plastic and paired with a simplistic lens.

    From around the 1990s, toy cameras garnered popularity for their distinctive aesthetic. Cameras like the Diana and Holga are embraced, light leaks and all, for their wonderfully unpredictable results.

    With their vignetting, blurry focus and lens distortion, photographers armed with toy cameras relinquish control over the definitive outcome of the image, adding a palpable sense of serendipity to the photographic process.

    Applying a toy camera effect to a digital photograph isn’t the same as using a toy camera itself, I know. But it’s a fun way to add a unique retro feel to a photograph while making use of the control that a digital camera affords.

    Here’s how to add a toy camera effect to a digital photograph using Photoshop.

    1. Cropping your image

    Open up your image in Photoshop. Here’s my starting image.

    The original image

    Toy cameras work within a square format, so you’ll need to crop your photograph accordingly. Select the Crop Tool from the left toolbar. In the top toolbar, click on the dropdown menu that regulates the crop ratio. Select 1×1 (Square).

    A square demonstrating the crop parameters will appear over your image. Adjust the parameters until you are happy and press enter.

    2. Applying a vignette

    With your layer selected in the Layers palette, go to Layer -> Duplicate Layer. A dialogue box will pop up. In the input field next to “As:” type “Layer 1” and click OK. This duplicates your current layer so you can work non-destructively.

    Next, right click on Layer 1 and select Convert to Smart Object.

    Select Filter -> Lens Correction and a dialog box will open. Click on the Custom tab. In the Vignette section of the Custom tab, adjust the Amount slider and the Midpoint slider until you have a nice, dark vignette (for this image I set the amount to -100 and the midpoint to +10). Repeat this step if you want a darker vignette.

    Use the Lens Correction function to apply a vignette to your image

    3. Adding blur

    As I mentioned before, a lot of photographs taken with a toy camera are unfocused or blurry. To emulate this, make sure Layer 1 is selected and go to Filter->Blur->Gaussian Blur. In the Gaussian Blur window set the Radius from 5 to 10 pixels depending on your image and click OK.

    In the Gaussian Blur window set the Radius from 5 to 10 pixels depending on your image and click OK

    4. Adjusting colors

    Toy cameras often lend a distinctive color-cast to photographs. In the layers panel, click on the Create a new fill or adjustment layer button and select Curves. In the Curves adjustment palette click on the RGB menu, select the red channel and create a shallow ‘S’ bend. Select the green channel and apply the same shallow ‘S’ shape. Now select the blue channel and create an inverted ‘S’.

    Use the curves function to emulate the distinctive color-cast often encountered in photos taken with a toy camera

    5. Creating light leaks

    One fun characteristic of toy cameras are light leaks. A light leak is caused by a hole or gap in the body of the camera, allowing light to “leak” into the film chamber. This exposes the film to excess light. The result is whimsical fields of color that add character to a photograph and illustrate the photographic process.

    To emulate light leaks you first need to create a new layer. Click on the Create a new layer button at the bottom of the layers panel and rename the layer “Light leaks”.

    Select your brush tool and set the brush size to around 2000 and your hardness to 0%. Set the foreground color to your preferred color – usually red, yellow or blue. With the “Light leaks” layer selected, dot or streak one or two patches of color over your image.

    Once you are done painting the light leaks, change the Blending Mode of the layer by clicking on the Blending Modes dropdown menu and selecting Color. You can change the opacity of the light leaks by toggling the Opacity slider on the layers panel too.

    Conclusion

    And there you have it. Now that you know how to add a toy camera aesthetic to your photograph, the possibilities are endless. This is a great opportunity to make use of unfocused, spotty or noisy digital images. It’s the next best thing to using a real toy camera yourself!

    Here are a couple of my own creations below, post yours in the comments!

     

    The post How to Add a Toy Camera Effect to Your Digital Images Using Photoshop appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Megan Kennedy.


    Digital Photography School

  • Samsung to acquire smartphone camera tech company CorePhotonics

    According to sources familiar with the matter, Korean smartphone maker Samsung is close to acquiring Israel-based technology company CorePhotonics. The deal could be worth $ 150 million.

    CorePhotonics isn’t a company end consumers are too familiar with, but it has been one of the pioneers of the multi-camera trend in smartphones. Most notably it was the company behind OPPO’s 5x zoom module and was likely also involved in the creation of OPPO’s latest 10x zoom camera. It’s unknown at this point what the acquisition would mean for the relationship with OPPO.

    The CorePhotonics name also appeared in the news when the company filed several law suits against Apple for patent infringement. The legal dispute is still ongoing.

    Zoom reach is one of the very few areas where smartphone cameras still can’t keep up with stand-alone compact cameras and is likely going to be an important differentiator for brands when launching the next generations of smartphones. In this context the acquisition makes a lot of sense for a manufacturer like Samsung.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • New Samsung Exynos chipset supports 8K video, up to five camera modules

    Samsung announced its Exynos 9820 chipset, which will likely power the company’s 2019 flagship smartphones, including the Galaxy S10, late last year. Now Samsung has unveiled additional detail on the new processor in a press release.

    Of course, it’s the new chipset’s imaging capabilities of interest and on paper it looks like the Exynos 9820 won’t disappoint. It will be able to manage up to five camera modules. It’s already known at least one version of the Galaxy S10 will likely come with a triple-camera on the back. This leaves enough processing power for a front dual-camera as well.

    In addition devices equipped with the chipset will be able to record 8K video using a 10-bit HEVC codec. This doesn’t necessarily mean such high-res video will be standard on the Galaxy S10 at launch, but it’s good to know any Exynos 9820-equipped devices will be future-proof in terms of video and an 8K mode could possibly be activated via firmware update.

    On the display side of things the new chipset can manage 4K displays with HDR10+ and dynamic tone mapping.

    Non-imaging highlights include a tri-cluster setup with a mix of Samsung custom cores and ARM designs, a Mali-G76 12-core design that is 40% faster than last year’s GPU, a neural processing unit (NPU) that is seven times faster than the previous version and a 8nm LPP process, which requires 10% less power than the 10nm LPP process from last year.

    More detail can be found on the Samsung website.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Olympus announces limited edition OM-D E-M1 Mark II camera to celebrate 100th anniversary

    In addition to a barrage of other products launched earlier today, Olympus has also unveiled a limited edition Silver OM-D E-M1 Mark II to commemorate Olympus’ 100th anniversary.

    As tends to be the case with many limited edition cameras, nothing changes on the inside. This special edition OM-D E-M1 Mark II still features the same 20.4-megapixel MOS sensor with Olympus’ TruePic VIII image processor to power it all. Also identical to the standard version is the 5-axis image stabilization.

    The special edition OM-D E-M1 Mark II will be limited to only 2,000 units worldwide and is set to ship in February 2019 for $ 1.699.99 USD and $ 1,999.99 CAD.

    OLYMPUS ANNOUNCES LIMITED EDITION

    OM-D® E-M1 MARK II SILVER

    2,000 Units Available Worldwide in Commemoration of Olympus’ 100th Anniversary

    CENTER VALLEY, PA., January 24, 2019 – Olympus is pleased to announce a special edition of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, the OM-D E-M1 Mark II Silver. This limited edition model, of which only 2,000 units will be available worldwide, will be available at the end of February 2019, in commemoration of Olympus’ 100th anniversary.

    From Olympus President Hiroyuki Sasa:
    We are sincerely grateful to all customers and other stakeholders who have supported Olympus since its founding 100 years ago. Being true to our purpose of “making people’s lives healthier, safer, and more fulfilling,” we shall continue to contribute to photographic culture and deliver the joy of capturing and expressing special moments to photography lovers worldwide.

    TruePic VIII Image Processor and 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor
    The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features the TruePic VIII Image Processor, which makes it possible to capture images with minimal noise while retaining details. Furthermore, the 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS sensor with 121 points of cross-type on-chip phase detection improves resolution without the need for a low-pass filter. This synergy maintains the full 20.4 Megapixel image while offering up to 18 fps high-speed sequential shooting performance in AF/AE tracking. It also enhances gradation through pixel characteristic improvement for a wide dynamic range that rivals that of cameras with larger sized APS-C sensors. Pro Capture Mode is also included and allows lag-free shooting of split-second moments as full resolution images, attaining both high-speed and excellent image quality.

    In-Body 5-Axis Image Stabilization
    The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is equipped with built-in 5-Axis Image Stabilization to compensate for camera shake. Through an optimized correction algorithm, this model boasts 5.5 shutter speed steps of compensation performance. Furthermore, when combined with an M.Zuiko lens containing in-lens image stabilization2, 5-Axis Sync IS provides up to 6.5 shutter speed steps of compensation performance for hand-held shooting capabilities.

    A Compact, Lightweight, Durable System Offering Unparalleled Reliability
    The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features sealing throughout the camera for a highly reliable dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C) design so that the camera performs even in the harshest outdoor conditions, such as snow or rain.

    Premium Silver Body
    The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a dependable camera that meets the needs of the professional photographer and is capable of shooting in the harshest of environments. The black body embraces functional beauty while the new silver body provides a classic, quality camera look.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Camera accessory manufacturer Syrp acquired by Vitec Imaging Solutions

    New Zealand-based camera gear company Syrp, which was founded in 2012 by two videographers, has been acquired by Vitec Imaging Solutions. The acquisition took place on January 23, according to Vitec, which holds an extensive brand portfolio that includes Manfrotto, JOBY, Gitzo, and more.

    Syrp’s product lineup includes motion control and slider hardware for photographers and filmmakers, as well as related software for controlling the hardware. These products will become part of Vitec’s own portfolio under the acquisition, which will involve Syrp being integrated with Vitec Imaging Solutions.

    As part of this integration, Vitec plans to transform Syrp’s New Zealand facility into its new Research & Development ‘center of excellence’ for motion control and mechatronic products. The Syrp brand will remain, and its products will be made available globally via Vitec’s global distribution network.

    Vitec acquires Syrp, leader in sliders and motion technology, expanding innovation capabilities for future product development.

    Vitec Imaging Solutions, a Division of The Vitec Group plc (“Vitec”), a globalprovider of products and solutions to the Broadcast and Photography markets, is pleased to announce that on 23 January 2019 it acquired Syrp Limited (“Syrp”),a New Zealand based slider and motion control company.

    Syrp designs and develops motorised camera sliders as well as motion control hardware and software that enables independent content creators to remotely control their camera equipment, allowing for the capture and smooth tracking of shots for video, time-lapse and hyper-lapse imagery.

    The acquisition of Syrp adds electronics and software features that control cameras to Vitec’s current product portfolio. Syrp will be integrated into Vitec’sImaging Solutions Division, which will commercialise the brand’s innovativeproduct offering to content creators worldwide. This will facilitate easy access to Syrp sliders and motion controls, as the perfect complements to Manfrotto andGitzo’s tripods and heads.

    Founded in 2012 by two skilled videographers, Syrp has been dedicated to empowering independent filmmakers and photographers to explore new creative possibilities in dynamic photography and filmmaking. This commitment isperfectly aligned with Vitec’s purpose to provide innovative solutions for capturing and sharing exceptional content.

    Syrp’s brand and products will benefit from Vitec Imaging Solutions globaldistribution network, with its highly efficient customer service, logistics, and integrated shipping capabilities. The brand will also receive the added support ofVitec’s integrated marketing campaigns and social media presence.

    With the acquisition of Syrp, Vitec will expand its ability to provide customers with innovative solutions for the creation of exceptional time-lapses and hyper-lapses thus matching the growing demand for engaging digital and social media dynamic content.

    Going forward, Syrp’s New Zealand facility will become Vitec’s R&D center of excellence for mechatronic and motion control products.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Olympus teases upcoming sports-oriented camera once more

    Olympus has released teaser number three for the sports-oriented camera the company is releasing in a week. The previous teasers only gave a quick glimpse of the camera, instead focusing on what it can do: sports.

    In this latest episode, the camera is seen out in nature (including the rain). We’ll have a lot more on this intriguing new camera when it launches on the 24th!

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Sony announces a6400 midrange APS-C mirrorless camera

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    Sony has announced the a6400, an updated 24.2MP mirrorless camera with a flip-up rear touchscreen and the processor and autofocus system ‘borrowed from the a9’.

    In many respects the camera resembles an a6300 with a more powerful processor, enhanced autofocus and a more extensively articulated touchscreen, but launched at a slightly lower cost. It also adds the timelapse function that was lost when Sony moved away from offering in-camera apps.

    Like previous models it can shoot at up to 11 fps or 8 fps in silent shutter mode, both with full autofocus and exposure capability, but not live view.

    Enhanced AF

    Most of the enhancements come in the form of autofocus improvements that have been developed for the a9. These include increased speed along with the enhanced ‘real-time tracking’ and animal Eye AF promised in a firmware update for its a9 pro-level sports camera.

    Like recent APS-C Sony models it has 425 phase detection points spread out across its sensor. These, combined with the more powerful processor let Sony claim World’s fastest AF (with all the footnotes such claims usually entail). The most obvious differences are that Sony now says its subject recognition and tracking algorithms now include eye and pattern detection, in addition to the distance, color and face detection information they previously worked with. This should lead to more stable, persistent tracking, the company says.

    Movie AF tracking is also improved, Sony says. Like the a6300, oversampled 4K video is taken from the full width of the sensor.

    The camera also offers an 8-bit version of the Hybrid Log Gamma standard for simple capture of HDR video, allowing the capture and display of a wider range of tones in a natural manner, on the latest TVs. The company only promises compatibility with its own TVs.

    The body-only price will be $ 900 in the US, CAN$ 1250 in Canada and €1050 in Europe. This is noticeably less expensive (by $ 100 and €200) than the a6300, which suggests it will sit a little lower in the lineup. Only time will tell whether this will also see it replace the low-cost a6000 model.

    Official sample images:

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    Sony Announces its Next-generation ?6400 Mirrorless Camera with Real-time Eye Autofocus, Real-time Tracking and World’s Fastest Autofocus

    New APS-C Mirrorless Camera Features Excellent Image Quality, Compact Design and Many Advanced Technologies From Sony’s Full-frame Lineup

    • World’s Fastest 0.02 seconds AF acquisition speed plus 425 phase-detection and contrast-detection AF points covering approximately 84% of image area
    • Advanced Real-time Eye AF
    • New Real-time Tracking for object tracking
    • 2MP APS-C Exmor™ CMOS image sensor and latest-generation BIONZ X™ image processor
    • 180-degree fully tiltable LCD touch screen for self-recording
    • High-speed continuous shooting at up to 11 fps mechanical shutter / 8 fps silent shooting with continuous AF/AE tracking
    • High-resolution 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning, plus advanced AF speed and stability
    • Interval recording for time-lapse videos

    SAN DIEGO — Jan. 15, 2019 — Sony Electronics Inc. today introduced an exciting new addition to its E-mount mirrorless camera lineup – the ?6400 (model ILCE-6400).

    The ?6400 brings many of Sony’s most advanced technologies from their acclaimed full-frame lineup to a compact, lightweight APS-C camera. The speedy new camera boasts the world’s fastest1 autofocus (AF) acquisition of 0.02 seconds2, while also introducing the new advanced “Real-time Eye AF” and ”Real-time Tracking” capabilities. Also included are high-speed shooting at up to 11 fps4 with AF/AE tracking, a new-generation BIONZ X image processing engine that produces excellent image quality, 4K6 video recording, a fully 180-degree tiltable LCD touch screen and much more, making it the ultimate tool for all types of creators ranging from professionals to vloggers.

    “The ?6400 represents another important step in the growth of Sony’s overall interchangeable lens camera lineup,” said Neal Manowitz, vice president of Imaging Solutions at Sony Electronics. “By bringing so many of our latest and most advanced technologies from full-frame cameras to a brand new APS-C model, we are giving today’s creators more options than ever to realize their vision.”

    Speedy Performance that Captures Decisive Moments

    The impressive autofocus system on the new ?6400 inherits many technologies from Sony’s newest line-up of full-frame cameras including the ?9, ?7R III and ?7 III models. The new a6400 features 425 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points that are placed densely over the entire image area, covering approximately 84% of the image area. This high-speed, high-performance tracking AF system is paired with a new-generation BIONZ X image processing engine that together allow the camera to acquire focus in as little as 0.02 seconds2 and maintain subject lock extremely effectively, ensuring even the fastest moving subjects can be tracked and captured with ease.

    The ?6400 introduces advanced “Real-time Eye AF,” the latest version of Sony’s acclaimed Eye AF technology. This exciting new capability employs artificial intelligence based object recognition to detect and process eye data in real time, resulting in improved accuracy, speed and tracking performance of Eye AF. In all autofocus modes, the camera now automatically detects the eyes of the subject and activates Eye AF with a half press of the shutter button, and when in AF-C or AF-A mode, the preferred eye (left or right) of your subject can be selected as the focus point. Choices include Auto / Right Eye / Left Eye, and a Switch Right / Left Eye function is able to be assigned to a custom function as well. This exciting new technology completely frees the photographer to focus solely on composition with full trust that focus will be tack sharp on the subject’s eye. Eye AF support for animals will be added in summer 2019 via a system software update, ideal for wildlife photographers.

    Also debuting on the ?6400 is Sony’s newly developed “Real-time Tracking.” This mode utilizes Sony’s latest algorithm including artificial intelligence (AI) based object recognition and processes color, subject distance (depth), pattern (brightness) as spatial information to ensure that all subjects can be captured with excellent accuracy. Additionally, when photographing or videographing humans or animals, face and eye position information is recognized by AI and the subject’s eye7 is monitored in real time with extremely high tracking precision. This can be activated by a simple half press of the shutter button, or can be assigned to a custom function as well.

    In terms of overall shooting speeds, the new camera can shoot at up to 11 fps4 with full AF/AE tracking while utilizing the mechanical shutter, and up to 8 fps5 with full AF/AE tracking while silent shooting. It can shoot at each of these speeds for up to 116 frames JPEG Standard / 46 frames RAW compressed, greatly increasing the chances of capturing the perfect moment.

    All-around Advancements in Image Quality

    Sony’s new ?6400 is equipped with a 24.2 MP3 APS-C sized image sensor with that is paired with an upgraded BIONZ X processor to deliver incredible advancements in image quality and color reproduction in all types of shooting conditions. Standard ISO ranges up to ISO 32000 for both still and movie, and is expandable up to ISO 102400 for still images, with excellent noise reduction at medium and high sensitivities.

    The camera also inherits many of the image processing algorithms from Sony’s newest full-frame cameras, greatly suppressing noise while preserving resolution and improving texture depiction.

    Advanced High-Resolution 4K6 Movie Recording with Fast Hybrid Autofocus

    The versatile ?6400 is an exceptional video camera, offering internal 4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning to collect about 2.4x the amount of data required for 4K movies, and then oversamples it to produce high quality 4K footage with exceptional detail and depth. Focusing during movie shooting is fast and stable thanks to upgraded Fast Hybrid AF technology, which keeps the subject in constant smooth focus no matter the scene, and even if an object crosses in front of the camera. This advanced AF plus touch focus functionality make it an ideal camera choice for many vloggers and video creators that are regularly creating and uploading content online.

    For time-lapse movie creation, the new camera features built-in interval recording that can be set anywhere between 1 and 60 seconds, with a total number of shots from 1 to 9999. AE tracking sensitivity can be adjusted to “High”, “Mid” or “Low” during interval shooting, allowing for reduced changes in exposure over the shooting interval.

    Additionally, for the first time in Sony APS-C mirrorless camera, the new model includes an HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) picture profile, which supports an Instant HDR workflow, allowing HDR (HLG) compatible TV’s to playback beautiful, true-to-life 4K HDR imagery. Further, both S-Log2 and S-Log3 are available for increased color grading flexibility, as well as Zebra functionality, Gamma Display assist and proxy recording. The camera can also record Full HD at 120 fps at up to 100 Mbps, allowing footage to be reviewed and eventually edited into 4x or 5x slow-motion video files in Full HD resolution with AF tracking.

    Upgraded Build to Maximize Versatility

    The new camera is designed to offer a high level of functionality and customization to maximize shooting freedom. New on the ?6400 is a fully 180-degree tiltable, 3.0-type LCD flip screen with 921k-dots of resolution that allows for simple and effective framing of selfie-style shooting for both still and video capture. Utilizing this capability, vloggers will be able to check and monitor composition throughout their entire creative process. The LCD screen is also equipped with touch functionality, with options for Touch Pad, Touch Focus, Touch Shutter and new Touch Tracking which quickly activates “Real-time Tracking” through the touch screen.

    The camera features a high quality XGA OLED Tru-finder™ viewfinder, extensive customization with 89 functions that are assignable to 8 custom keys, the new My Dial and My Menu functionality, enhanced overall menu usability, a help screen for menus, star rating for images, and many other features that allow for a seamless shooting experience. It is also built with a tough magnesium alloy design and has an extremely durable shutter that is rated for approximately 200,000 cycles. It also is capable of seamlessly transferring files to a smartphone or tablet when connected to the brand new Imaging Edge Mobile application.

    Pricing and Availability

    The ?6400 will ship in February 2019 for a suggested retail price of $ 900 USD and $ 1,250 CAD. It will also be offered as a kit with the 16-50mm F3.5 – 5.6 lens for a suggested retail price of $ 1,000 USD and $ 1,350 CAD, or in a kit with the 18-135mm F3.5 – 5.6 lens for a suggested retail price of $ 1,300 USD and $ 1,750 CAD. The camera and kits will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America.

    A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new camera and other Sony ? products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site built to educate and inspire all fans and customers of the Sony ? brand.

    The new content will also be posted directly at the Sony Photo Gallery and the Sony Camera Channel on YouTube. Detailed information pages within Sony.com for the new products can be found at:

    (US) – LINK

    (CA) – LINK

    Footnotes

    1 Among interchangeable-lens digital cameras equipped with an APS-C image sensor as of January 2019, based on Sony research
    2 CIPA-compliant, internal measurement method with an E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens mounted, Pre-AF off and viewfinder in use
    3 Approximate effective megapixels
    4 In “Hi+” continuous shooting mode. Maximum fps will depend on camera settings
    5 Maximum fps will depend on camera settings. Some distortion may occur with fast-moving subjects or if the camera is moved sideways rapidly while shooting
    6 A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC card is required for XAVC S format movie recording. UHS speed Class 3 or higher is required for 100Mbps recording
    7 Accurate focus may not be achieved with certain subjects in certain situations
    8 “Tracking” must be enabled via the menu beforehand
    9 The latest version of Imaging Edge “Viewer” and PlayMemories Home desktop applications is required
    10 Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via USB cable when displaying HDR (HLG) movies
    11 S-Log2 and S-Log3 are premised on processing pictures
    12 Pixels to be read are limited to the sensor area that is required for Full HD movies
    13 Sony internal tests with electronic front curtain shutter
    14 Availability of transfer / playback depends on the performance of the smartphone and tablet

    Sony a6400 specifications

    Price
    MSRP $ 900 (body only), $ 1000 (w/16-50mm lens), $ 1300 (w/18-135 lens)
    Body type
    Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
    Body material Magnesium alloy
    Sensor
    Max resolution 6000 x 4000
    Image ratio w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
    Effective pixels 24 megapixels
    Sensor photo detectors 25 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
    ISO Auto, 100-32000 (expands to 102800)
    Boosted ISO (maximum) 102800
    White balance presets 10
    Custom white balance Yes
    Image stabilization No
    File format
    • JPEG (Exif v2.31)
    • Raw (Sony ARW)
    Optics & Focus
    Autofocus
    • Contrast Detect (sensor)
    • Phase Detect
    • Multi-area
    • Center
    • Selective single-point
    • Tracking
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • Touch
    • Face Detection
    • Live View
    Autofocus assist lamp Yes
    Manual focus Yes
    Number of focus points 425
    Photography features
    Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
    Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
    Built-in flash Yes
    Flash range 6.00 m (at ISO 100)
    External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
    Flash modes Off, auto, on, slow sync, rear sync, redeye reduction, wireless, hi-speed sync
    Flash X sync speed 1/160 sec
    Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
    AE Bracketing ±5 (3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps)
    WB Bracketing Yes

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)