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Posts Tagged ‘Coming’

Major firmware updates coming for Fujifilm X-T2 and X-Pro2

23 Mar

Fujifilm will launch a couple of major firmware updates for its X-T2 and X-Pro2 cameras. The first one, available at the end of this month, brings the X-T2 up to version 2.00 and the X-Pro2 up to 3.00. Another update will arrive in late May.

The first update brings no less than 27 feature improvements to Fuji’s flagship mirrorless cameras, including an option to enable focal length-dependent minimum shutter speed in ISO Auto, up to 15 minute exposures in T mode, more options for bracketing while shooting Raw and added autofocus flexibility.

Several other updates are aimed at improving handling during video shooting, including the addition of a live histogram for X-T2 owners.

A second round of updates will come in May. Firmware 2.10 for X-T2 and 3.10 for X-Pro2 will add -6 and -7 EVF brightness settings for very low light shooting and the ability to assign functions to the rear command dial. A few functions are added for the X-T2 only including tethered shooting via Wi-Fi. See the very long list of updates below.

X-T2 version 2.00 & X-Pro2 version 3.00 – due late March 2017

1. Shooting RAW in Bracketing and Advanced Filters
The update enables you to use the RAW format when shooting not only in AE Bracketing but also in other Bracketing modes (ISO, Dynamic Range, White Balance, Film Simulaitons) and also in Advanced Filter modes.

2. Extended ISO 125 and 160 selectable
The update adds ISO125 and ISO160 to extended ISO levels available.

3. Programmable long exposure of up to 15 minutes
Long exposure in the T mode currently goes only up to 30 seconds. The update will allow users to extend it up to 15 minutes.

4. ON/OFF for 1/3-step shutter speed adjustment (X-T2 only – already in X-Pro2)
The update allows you to turn off the Command Dial’s function to adjust shutter speed by 1/3 steps in order to prevent unintended adjustments.

5. Full-range ISO adjustments with the Command Dial (X-T2 only)
With the update, set the ISO “A” position to “Command” to adjust ISO sensitivity across the full range, including extended ISOs, with the Front Command Dial.

6. “AUTO” setting added for the minimum shutter speed in the ISO Auto setting
The update adds an AUTO option for the minimum shutter speed in the ISO Auto setting, that allows the camera to automatically define the minimum shutter speed according to the focal length of the lens attached.

7. Faster “Face Detection AF”
The update enables the use of Phase Detection AF for faster performance in Face Detection AF.

8. Improved in-focus indication in the AF-C mode
The update reduces focus hunting in the AF-C mode, making it easier to track a subject.

9. Addition of a smaller Focus Point size in Single Point AF
The update adds a smaller Focus Point size in Single Point AF, bringing the total number of available sizes to six. The new smallest size facilitates pin-point focusing.

10. Addition of “AF Point Display” (X-Pro2 only – already on X-T2)
With the update, you can choose to have AF Points constantly displayed in Zone AF and Wide / Tracking AF, making it easier to track a subject.

11. Addition of “AF-C Custom Setting” (X-Pro2 only – already on X-T2)
The update adds “AF-C Custom Setting” for specifying focus-tracking characteristics. Choose from five presets according to your subject’s type of movements.

12. Addition of “Portrait / Landscape AF Mode Switching” (X-T2 only)
The update allows you to specify separate AF mode and AF point settings for portrait orientation and landscape orientation.

13. Change of focus frame position while enlarging it
The update allows you to move the position of focus frame while enlarging it in Single Point in the AF-S mode or in the Manual Focus

14. Activation of the Eye Sensor in video recording (X-T2 only)
The update allows you to use the Eye Sensor during video recording to automatically switch between EVF and LCD.

15. Change of ISO sensitivity during video recording (X-T2 only)
The update allows you to change ISO setting during video recording.

16. Re-autofocusing in video recording
With the update, half-press the Shutter Release button or press the button assigned to “AF-ON” function during video recording to re-do autofocusing.

17. Display live histogram during video recording (X-T2 only)
The update allows you to display a live histogram during video recording.

18. Optimization of external microphone’s input level (X-T2 only)
The update optimizes external microphone’s input level (lower limit revised from -12dB to 20dB) to reduce white noise when an external microphone with preamp is connected.

19. Addition of “Eye Sensor + LCD Image Display” in the View Mode
The update gives the “Eye Sensor + LCD Image Display” option in the View Mode that allows you to shoot through the viewfinder and check images on the LCD, just as you would with an SLR.

20. Shorter EVF display time-lag (X-Pro2 only – already in X-T2)
The update shortens EVF’s display time-lag in the AF-C mode so that you will not miss a photo opportunity.

21. Constant “Dual” mode display (X-T2 only)
With the update, the small window in the Dual mode stays on even when you half-press the shutter release button.

22. Automatic vertical GUI for LCD (X-T2 only)
With the update, when you hold the camera in the portrait orientation, the camera will automatically display the GUI on the LCD in the same orientation.

23. Name Custom Settings
The update allows you to assign a specific name to Custom Settings 1 – 7.

24. Copyright information in EXIF data
The update allows you to register the photographer’s name and the copyright holder’s name in advance so that the camera automatically adds the information to EXIF data for each image.

25. Voice Memo function
The update enable you to record 30-second “Voice Memo” clips in the Playback mode.

26. Extended AE Bracketing
The update extends AE Bracketing from the current 3 frames +/-2EV to up to 9 frames +/-3EV.

27. Addition of “Shoot Without Card” mode
With the update, you can have the “Shoot Without Card” mode turned OFF so that the camera can not shoot when there is no SD card inserted.

X-T2 version 2.10 & X-Pro2 version 3.10 – late May 2017

28. Support for computer tethering via Wi-Fi (X-T2 only)
The update adds support for computer tethering via Wi-Fi.

29. Addition of “All” AF mode (X-T2 only)
With the update, select “All” in the AF mode so that you can select the AF mode and Focus Area size by only using the Command Dial.

30. Function extension for “Shutter AF” and “Shutter AE” (X-T2 only)
With the update, you can specify different settings for AF-S and AF-C in “Shutter AF” and for AF-S / MF and AF-C in “Shutter AE.”

31. Addition of “-6” and “-7” to EVF’s brightness setting
Additional options of “-6” and “-7” to the “EVF Brightness” setting so that, even in an extremely low-light condition, the brightness of the EVF does not distract you from shooting.

32. Switchover of the main and sub displays in the Dual Display mode (X-T2 only)
The update allows you to switch between the main and sub displays in the Dual Display mode.

33. Function assignment to the Rear Command Dial
With the update, you can assign a specific function to be activated when the Rear Command Dial is pressed.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Voice-controlled photo editing: coming soon to Photoshop?

12 Jan

Adobe Research is experimenting with a voice-controlled photo editing virtual assistant. A demo video uploaded to Adobe’s YouTube account shows how the tool might function, performing and undoing basic edits to an image, and exporting the final product to Facebook – all achieved through spoken commands. 

The demo shows this feature being used for extremely basic editing functions (cropping, flipping an image), which Adobe calls ‘a first step towards a robust multimodal voice-based interface’ for its mobile applications. 

Given that voice control is popping up in just about every gadget you can think of, it seems logical for Adobe to be considering adding voice control to its apps. The Internet of Things is rapidly turning out to be the Internet of Shouting at Things, so voice-controlled photo editing seems inevitable. 

Do you think Adobe could make voice control sophisticated enough for the complex needs of serious photo editing? Let us know in the comments.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Winter is Coming: Here are some tips on what and where to shoot when it gets cold

10 Oct

Winter is Coming

Winter is only a month or two away and many photographers will find it challenging to press on through the dreary winter months; especially those of us that live in Seattle or other areas where wind, rain, sleet and snow pound the region for months on end.

In this article I’ve outlined some tips to keep your landscape photography fresh when the weather starts to head south.

Photograph Transitions

The transition between fall and winter offers up a unique opportunity to photograph fall color under a fresh dusting of snow. If the forecast is calling for snow toward the end of fall, head out and see what you can find!

The warmer colors of the fall leaves and foliage will be presented in stark contrast against the cold tones of the snow and can make for very interesting and dynamic images. The above image was taken in the central Cascade mountains of Washington state at the end of Fall.

Head to the Desert

This may sound like a weird tip, but if you have any sort of opportunity to visit the desert or the canyon lands of any kind during the winter, do it! Places like Bryce Canyon in Utah (pictured above) and the Grand Canyon in Arizona offer very unique conditions and compositions that the average tourist won’t get to see during the summer months.

Snow can add a nice color contrast to the desert landscape and can also add soft textures to the arid environment. As an added bonus you won’t have to deal with the crazy crowds and 100 degree temperatures.

Icy Waterfalls

Shooting waterfalls during the winter months can often times make even popular and well shot locations look refreshing and new. Multnomah falls is one of the most recognizable waterfalls in Oregon and even it can take on a different appearance during the winter.

The frozen spray from the falls can add some really nice textures and visual elements to your images. The snow can also contrast well with the icy blue water flowing over the falls.

  • If you plan to shoot waterfalls or any sort of moving water during the winter definitely invest in a good set of micro-spikes (for traction) to give you an extra edge for hiking and climbing.
  • Trekking poles (your tripod can work in a pinch) are also a great idea to help with stability and balance while transversing icy terrain. 
  • If your tripod comes with metal spikes or feet it’s always good idea to bring them along as they may work better (or worse) depending upon conditions.
  • Hip-waders and Gortex can definitely help keep you dry and comfortable.

Let’s face it, slipping and falling into a river or on a rocky slope isn’t something you really want to do in cold weather.

The Mountains are Calling

Snow and the winter weather that comes with it can really add depth and layers to your images. Heading to the mountains with a longer focal length lens can really help to emphasize winter weather conditions such as fresh snow, low clouds and fog. 

When the weather looks to be heading south I love to head up to the mountains to check out how the conditions are shaping up for sunset and sunrise.

  • Bring waterproof and breathable layers, snow shoes and any other supplies that you may need when you find yourself hiking in cold conditions.
  • Packing a Jet Boil (or another source of heat) and some instant meals can be a lifesaver if you’re in a pinch.
  • A GPS can be your best friend if your tracks get covered by fresh snow.
  • Check the weather forecasts often and do some research to ensure that you don’t find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Chase the Storms

The sunsets that often follow winter storms can offer some of the most intense and gorgeous light that you can capture. To really take advantage of this try heading to the coast just as a low pressure system has begun to move on shore. It takes a bit of planning but the sunset/sunrise conditions on the back edge of the storm can be absolutely spectacular! The above image was taken in late winter at Cape Kiwanda on the Oregon Coast.

  • Check the weather forecasts hourly when planning a trip like this.
  • The National Weather Service here in the US is a great place to track weather and believe it or not the Weather Channel website offers some of the most accurate forecasts you can find on the internet. 
  • The NOAA Hi-Def radar smartphone App can give you a great deal of insight into minute by minute precipitation and cloud cover forecasts.

As an added bonus you won’t have to deal with that pesky marine layer that often plagues the west coast of the US during the summer months. 

Stay Close to Home

If the conditions are just too dangerous or you just don’t have time to plan a trip, look to areas near you for unique vantage points and compositions that can offer up very different photographic results during the winter months. This was taken near my home in Snoqualmie, WA. 

Get creative in your surroundings! This shot was taken with my Canon 70-300mm F4-5.6L IS lens. Using longer focal lengths in your area can really open up new and exciting compositional opportunities. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Raw capture coming to iPhone in iOS 10?

15 Jun

An eagle-eyed Reddit user has spotted an important new iOS 10 feature that Apple slipped into its WWDC keynote yesterday: Raw image editing. The feature didn’t get a mention in the keynote speech itself, which instead focused on the addition of computer vision technology to sort photos more intelligently. Instead, the mention of Raw editing flashed on the screen behind SVP of Software Engineering Craig Federighi. 

Apple’s news release for developers seems to suggest that Raw capture will also be offered with the update, which brings ‘more sophisticated control and monitoring of the entire [image] capture process […] including support for new features such as Live Photos and RAW format capture’.

Many Android users have been enjoying Raw capture for some time now, so Apple would seem to be catching up. But the biggest news for photographers might be the ability to edit Raw files on an iPad Pro. iOS 10 is being offered in beta currently to developers, and will be released to the public this fall.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New VSCO app for Android and iOS is coming soon

04 Jun

VSCO, an app for shooting and editing images, discovering content and connecting to other photographers has a very dedicated following on both iOS and Android. Now the team has announced a total redesign of the app for both platforms.

We’re excited to share that we’ll be rolling out a redesigned mobile app for iOS and Android, which focuses equally on both creating and discovering on the VSCO platform. Move seamlessly between a space for editing and publishing, and a space for consuming great content from the people you follow and VSCO Originals. 

The app will offer the same capturing, editing and community tools as before but wrap them all up in a new look. You’ll have a range of camera controls and adjustable filters as well as discovery and search functions at your disposal. You’ll also be able to access the VSCO Originals curated content. The redesigned app is not available yet but according to VSCO will be ‘coming soon’. We will of course keep you up to date and in the meantime you can have a look at the blog post on the VSCO website for some additional screenshots and information to shorten the wait.


Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Content-aware cropping coming soon to Adobe Photoshop CC

27 May

Adobe Photoshop CC will soon offer content-aware cropping, the company has announced. The feature, as demonstrated in a video released today, will allow Photoshop users to automatically fill any white space around an adjusted photo with content that matches the original image. The tool can be used to add content (to change the aspect ratio, for example), or to fill in gaps that result from rotating or repositioning the image.

Content-aware cropping has been a frequently requested feature, says Adobe. The company will include the new cropping tool ‘as part of an upcoming major release,’ though it doesn’t specify whether it will be the next major update or a later one.

Via: Adobe

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Affinity Photo coming to Windows

16 Mar

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Serif has announced its Affinity apps, previously available only to Mac users, will soon be available for Windows. Affinity Photo is an image editing program, first introduced in February 2015. It’s considerably cheaper than Photoshop, but promises robust performance and many tools that will be familiar to those used to Adobe’s programs.

Affinity Photo will debut as a free public beta early this summer, according to Serif. The company promises feature parity with its Mac version, and will offer it for the same one-time price of $ 50/£40. Windows users interested in becoming beta testers can sign up now at Serif’s website.


 Press release:

Affinity applications are coming to Windows

NOTTINGHAM, UK – March 15, 2015 – Serif is delighted to announce that it will be bringing its highly regarded, multi award-winning Affinity creative apps to Windows.

The Affinity apps—which currently include Affinity Designer and Affinity Photo—have enjoyed tremendous success over the last 12 months with both apps regularly charting in the top 10 of the Mac App Store and gaining 1,000s of 5 star reviews from users. They have also received some serious recognition from Apple themselves having won a Design Award in July, and Affinity Photo being chosen as their best app of 2015 in December last year.

But the fact they have only been available on Mac has caused frustration for PC users, and the company has been inundated with requests to produce Windows versions.

“Pretty much any article, blog or social post about our Affinity apps now seems to attract a rush of comments from users asking why we don’t make them available on Windows. Well, I’m really excited to finally reveal we are working on it and the development team are making incredibly rapid progress.” said Ashley Hewson, Serif’s Managing Director. “We already have an early build of Affinity Designer running on our PCs in the office here, and we will be making it available as a free public beta early in the summer”.

Affinity apps for Windows will have exactly the same feature set as the Mac apps that have set the creative world alight, as well as sharing the same single file format that has become a core feature of the Affinity suite. Coming to Windows makes the Affinity range ideal for inter-agency collaborations, cross-platform creative workflows, and for a huge number of design studios, photographers and freelancers who have a PC based set-up.

As well as feature parity, Serif also promises to match the business model of the Mac versions with a purchase price of $ 49.99 / €49.99 / £39.99 with no subscription.

You can sign up for the free beta of Affinity for Windows here: affinity.serif.com/windows.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus announces details of major firmware updates for E-M1 and E-M5 II coming November

16 Sep

Olympus unveiled the details of two fairly significant firmware updates, both of which will be available for download, for free, come November. The flagship Olympus OM-D E-M1 will receive firmware version 4.0. while the not even one-year-old OM-D E-M5 II will receive firmware version 2.0. Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Coming to America: Canon EOS M3 arrives stateside in October

27 Aug

Canon has announced US availability for its EOS M3 mirrorless camera, which was launched in February for European and Asian markets. Set to be available in October, the EOS M3 includes a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, Hybrid CMOS AF III AF system, 3″ tilting touchscreen LCD and Wi-Fi with NFC. Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Feature film shot on iPhone 5 coming to cinemas

09 Jul

Tangerine, a feature film by Sean Baker, is headed for theaters on July 10th. It was shot entirely on the iPhone 5, keeping the overall budget of the film under $ 100,000, and the production utilized anamorphic adapter prototypes for shooting. Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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