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Posts Tagged ‘Cameras’

Cascable remote control app adds support for 50 cameras

13 Aug

Cascable, a Wi-Fi-based camera remote control app for Apple devices, has been updated to version 2.0. This update is a major one, adding both new features and additional support over the previous version. Most notably, Cascable 2.0 now supports 50 camera models from Sony, Canon, Nikon and Olympus. It also adds a new Night Mode dark theme, faster image previews and better photo management.

According to Cascable, user feedback indicated that version 1.0’s photo preview method was too cumbersome. To remedy this, Cascable 2.0 automatically provides a preview of a shot as soon as it is taken, though at a lower resolution than the original photo. Photo management has also been improved by showing the most recent photos first, and any photo can now be quickly previewed using Force Touch or a tap.

Finally, Cascable says the latest software version has better handling of RAW + JPEG workflows, namely via the elimination of duplicate images. Users can zoom into images at a 1:1 resolution, and metadata with a histogram is now presented during fullscreen photo viewing.

Cascable 2.0 uses a different payment structure compared to the 1.x versions, being made available as a free base app with ‘Pro’ feature packs that cost $ 9.99 individually (there are three total) or $ 24.99 as a bundle. The update is free to all existing customers. Cascable 2.0 is available to download now from iTunes.

Via: Cascable Blog

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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MIT researchers use ordinary cameras to create extraordinary interactive videos

03 Aug

Augmented reality is in the news plenty lately, but some researchers from MIT have put an interesting twist on the popular technology. Using new algorithms and as little as a few seconds of video created by a traditional camera, they’ve been able to create Interactive Dynamic Video, or IDV. The objects respond in a surprisingly realistic way as they’re poked, prodded and manipulated.

IDV records the tiny vibrations of an object in motion during a short video clip, and then uses that information to allow users to interact with the object virtually. The potential applications include things like monitoring the structural integrity of bridges or buildings. The technology could also provide filmmakers with a cheaper, less time-intensive alternative to 3D modeling. Case in point: this little green monster running around a playground.

See the video below to learn more about the research and its applications.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Apple patents system for disabling cameras in no-photography areas

01 Jul

Apple has been awarded a patent that describes a mobile camera technology that can interpret infrared signals, which could then be used to disable the camera from recording at events like concerts, among other things.

An infrared transmitter would send encoded data to the device, which would be processed by the phone. Depending on the application, the device may temporarily disable its built-in camera in locations where photography and video capture are forbidden, for example music venues, classified company areas or museums. With the system activated a ‘RECORDING DISABLED’ message would pop up on the smartphone screen when the user tries to take a photo or video. The patent even mentions the ability to add a watermark to any images or video captured when certain infrared signals are detected. 

The patent also describes use of this technology to provide additional information or visuals in a different scenario: for example, an art gallery. Pointing a smartphone camera at an IR transmitter positioned next to a painting could provide more information on the device’s screen about the artwork. The patent also mentions applications in retail environments.

There is understandably some concern about how and where such systems would be implemented. Arguably, most people would be fine with concert venues protecting the intellectual property of their acts or companies preventing industrial espionage, but there are concerns that the technology could also be used to undermine the freedom of the press. As usual, the existence of a patent does not necessarily mean we’ll ever see the final product, but in this case it might be worth at least keeping an eye on how the idea is being developed further. You can read the full patent document on the USPTO website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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STG Uploader app allows Sony cameras to upload directly to Google Photos

14 Jun

A new unofficial app called STG Uploader enables Sony cameras compatible with PlayMemories Camera Apps to upload content directly to Google Photos. Running the application will prompt the user to set up a Wi-Fi access point, after which the user will authorize the app to place an oAuth token on the camera’s SD card, a safer alternative to saving the user’s Google username and password on the camera.

Full instructions on installing the app are located on the Sony-PMCA-RE Github. Once installed and set up, users are presented with a simple screen that shows how many photos are ready to be uploaded to Google Photos and how many have already been uploaded. An upload status bar is provided, as well as an option for erasing the upload database.

According to a user at SonyAlpha Rumors, the app uploads photos in full resolution. Images uploaded directly will appear in Google Photos with the name ‘SonyUpload’ followed by the date. Note that formatting the SD card will cause the oAuth token to be erased and the app setup process will have to be repeated.

Via: SonyAlpha Rumors

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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2016 Roundup: Semi-Pro Interchangeable Lens Cameras

13 Jun

Within this category, which is made up of cameras costing $ 2000 or more (body-only, and based on MSRP in the US), you’ll find some of the fiercest competitors the camera industry has to offer. This includes cameras with 50 or more megapixels geared perfectly for studio shooters, 4K-capable cameras for serious film makers, and all-rounders that can easily split their time between pro-level still shooting and high-end video capture.

All of the cameras in this price range use full-frame sensors. And while most of them are DSLRs, there are also several mirrorless options as well. Simply put, there is something here to satisfy just about everyone who is willing to pony up the requisite funds. Read through to see what makes this segment so cutthroat, and what innovations are driving this tier forwards at a remarkable pace. 

The models covered in this roundup are:

  • Canon EOS 5D Mark III
  • Canon EOS 5DS / 5DS R
  • Leica SL
  • Nikon Df
  • Nikon D750
  • Nikon D810
  • Sony Alpha a7R II
  • Sony Alpha a7S
  • Sony Alpha a7S II

Note: We purposely excluded the Canon EOS 1DX II, Nikon D5 and Pentax 645Z from this roundup as we feel the capabilities of both cameras put them in a class of their own, which we’ll cover in an additional roundup.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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2016 Roundup: $1200-2000 part 2: Full-Frame Interchangeable Lens Cameras

09 Jun

For those wanting to step up from entry-level to midrange ILCs, there are many things to consider, including the choice between a DSLR or mirrorless camera, what sensor size suits you best, how important video is to you, and of course the lens system.

While full-frame cameras typically offer superior low light image quality and more control over depth-of-field, crop-sensor cameras are extremely capable in their own right – and (usually) more compact and less costly.

We’ve split the $ 1200-2000 ILC marketplace into two segments – full-frame sensor cameras (discussed in this roundup) and crop-sensor (APS-C/Four Thirds) covered here.

This group of full-frame cameras is split right down the middle, with three DSLRs and three mirrorless models. Sony is, by far, the major player in the full-frame mirrorless market, with most of the other manufacturers sticking with DSLRs.

Here are the cameras we’ll cover in this enthusiast full-frame roundup: 

  • Canon EOS 6D
  • Nikon D610
  • Pentax K-1
  • Sony Alpha a7
  • Sony Alpha a7 II
  • Sony Alpha a7R

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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2016 Roundup: $1200-2000 Crop-Sensor Interchangeable Lens Cameras

08 Jun

For those wanting to step up from entry-level to midrange ILCs, there are many things to consider, including the choice between a DSLR or mirrorless camera, what sensor size suits you best, how important video is to you, and of course the lens system. 

While full-frame cameras typically offer superior low light image quality and more control over depth-of-field, crop-sensor cameras are extremely capable in their own right – and (usually) more compact and less costly.  

We’ve split the $ 1200-2000 ILC marketplace into two segments – cropped sensor cameras (which you’ll find in this roundup) and full-frame options (coming soon). 

There’s a lot of variety in this group of crop-sensor cameras. Two of them are DSLRs and five are mirrorless. While most use APS-C sensors, the Olympus PEN-F and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 use smaller Four Thirds sensors. Some of these cameras are aimed toward still shooters, while others are more video-centric.

Here are the competitors in this crop-sensor round-up:

  • Canon EOS 7D Mark II
  • Fujifilm X-Pro2
  • Fujifilm X-T1
  • Leica T (typ 701)
  • Nikon D500
  • Olympus PEN-F
  • Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Takeway launches R1 Mini Ranger Clampod for action cameras

04 Jun

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Camera clamp manufacturer Takeway has announced a miniature version of its T1 Clampod that it is aiming at the action cam market. The R1 Mini Ranger Clampod features a screw-close clamping jaw that can be adjusted for gripping on to flat surfaces or around cylindrical poles. The jaw offers a choice of three clamping ‘teeth’ so users can select the most appropriate for the type of surface the clamp is being attached to.

The head features a quick release plate that allows cameras to be attached and detached easily – Takeway claims the R1 can cope with a maximum load of 300g. Its load capacity makes it suitable for small to medium sized flash units too, such as the Canon Speedlite 430EX RT, though not top-of-the-range models. The aluminum clamp itself weighs 73g, and the jaw can attach to tubes of between 10-32mm in diameter and flat surfaces of between 5-32mm thick.

The Takeway R1 Mini Ranger Clampod will cost £29.94/€39.95. For more information visit the Takeway website.


Press release:

Kenro unveils new additions to Takeway range

Kenro Ltd, the specialist photo & video distributor, has expanded its range of Takeway camera clamps with the introduction of the new R1 Mini Ranger Clampod, together with an expanded range of Clampod accessories.

Kenro is the UK and Ireland’s exclusive distributor of the versatile Takeway Clampod mini tripod and clamping system.

Following hot on the heels of its ingenious larger brother – the T1 Clampod introduced last year – the new R1 Mini Ranger version is aimed at action cameras, mobile phones and GPS devices. SRP is just £29.94.

It is ideal for fixing onto cycle or motorcycle handlebars for filming outdoor adventure activities, but it will actually clamp onto anything 5-32mm thick so the applications are numerous. The R1 Mini Ranger has a quick release plate so an action camera or other device can be quickly loaded into place.

It can be used as a camera support aid in inaccessible places where handheld or tripod use is not possible, plus it can also be used with a flex neck for precise positioning in even more difficult places.

Clampod accessories, also recently launched, include:

Tablet Holder (TY102)
The optional tablet holder is compatible with tablets from 7” to 10.2” – such as iPad, Note 10.1 etc. The stored holder is only 15 cm x 6.4 cm, the max opening for tablet width is 20cm. SRP is £17.94.

Smartphone Holder for Sports (TY103)
This is a smartphone holder for dynamic use – such as motorcycles, bicycles, scooters, skateboarding etc. Even with violent shaking, a smartphone will not easily fall out. It is designed for smartphones from 4” to 5.7” in size. SRP is £15.54.

G1 Mini Tripod (TYG1)
The G1 is a table-top device which fits direct to cameras etc, via its 1/4” screw thread. It is designed to be used with the TYB01 Ball Head and T1 Clampod. Size folded: 15 x 11 x 7cm. Size extended: 9.5 x 4 x 2.4cm. SRP is £17.34.

Flex Neck (TYFN01)
The Flex Neck is 11cm long and fits the camera plate of the T1 or R1 Takeway Clamps along with the TYB01 Ball Head. Its bending action enables the user, in conjunction with a Takeway Clamp, to operate at more extreme angles. SRP is £22.14.

Ball Head (TYB01)
This mini Ball Head is designed mainly for use with the Takeway R1 Ranger, G1 Tripod or Flex Neck. It has a load capacity of 3kg and features a Quick Release Plate. SRP is £22.74.

Paul Kench, Kenro’s managing director, says: “When we introduced the original T1 Clampod, it provided users with a great looking, excellent quality and very handy device to clamp digital cameras to virtually anything and it has been very well received.

“This success led Takeway to design a smaller clamp aimed at the action cam and handheld device user, and the R1 Mini Ranger Clampod fits the bill perfectly. With its extended range of accessories, Takeway now has an extremely versatile and cost-effective device clamping system.”
All quoted prices are SRP guide, including VAT.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Vitrima lens aims to bring low-cost 3D video capture to GoPro action cameras

01 Jun

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Looking to bring more excitement to your POV snowboarding videos? A new case called Vitrima is in the works, which would enable GoPro action cameras to record 3D video. The lens attachment uses mirrors to deliver two images to the GoPro camera’s own lens. The resulting resulting stereoscopic videos appear to be 3D when viewed through a VR viewer like Google Cardboard or the Gear VR.

The Vitrima lens is waterproof and will ship already attached to a standard GoPro camera housing, and can also be used with various mounts. Because the lens is simply composed of carefully arranged mirrors, it works out of the box without any software. Though the resulting videos won’t feature 3D audio, the lens – which will cost $ 50 when the product launches – presents a low-cost way for someone to record 3D videos without purchasing a dedicated 3D camera like the $ 799 Vuze VR camera.

The website lists Vitrima as ‘launching soon.’

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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2016 Roundups: Fixed Prime Lens Cameras

25 May

The fixed lens camera market may be a bit niche, but it’s here that you’ll find some of the best cameras you can buy. Sensors ranging from APS-C to full-frame are designed to match their lenses, which cover ranges from 28-75mm equiv., so image quality is top-notch. 

This segment includes both pocketable models without viewfinders to ‘best worn over your shoulder’ cameras with unique or ultra-high-resolution EVFs. There’s a gigantic spread in pricing, as well. The Fujifilm X70 and Ricoh GR II can be had for under $ 700, while the Leica Q sells for nearly $ 4500.

For those who want to zoom with their feet,  here are the fixed-lens cameras we think are worth a look:

  • Fujifilm X70
  • Fujifilm X100T
  • Leica Q (Typ 116)
  • Ricoh GR II
  • Sigma dp Quattro series
  • Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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