Ricoh has released firmware v2.03 for its GR enthusiast compact. The list of updated features includes support for Raw file transfer via Eye-Fi card, the ability to use 1/2500 sec shutter speed with maximum aperture and a 47mm-equivalent crop mode. Also new is a ‘Maximum Aperture Priority’ setting available in Program and Manual exposure modes. Click through for a link to download the latest firmware version.
Sigma has announced firmware updates for two of its most recent lenses, the 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012 (Canon mount) and 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C013 (Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts). The lenses must be updated using Sigma’s USB Dock, and owners should download the latest Version 1.1 of Sigma Optimization Pro software first. At the moment it’s unclear what benefits the lens firmware updates bring. Click through for more details and the download link.
Sigma has announced firmware updates for two of its most recent lenses, the 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012 (Canon mount) and 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C013 (Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts). The lenses must be updated using Sigma’s USB Dock, and owners should download the latest Version 1.1 of Sigma Optimization Pro software first. At the moment it’s unclear what benefits the lens firmware updates bring. Click through for more details and the download link.
Fujifilm has posted firmware version 3.01 for the X-Pro1, which resolves a bug in the recently-released v3.00 that caused movies to be recorded incorrectly under some circumstances. It’s otherwise the same, meaning that it promises faster AF speed, and adds a ‘peaking’ display mode to aid manual focus, compared to prevous versions. Click through for the download link.
The folks at Magic Lantern are no stranger to adding new features to Canon DSLRs, courtesy of their EOS Camera Tool software. Their latest creation, Dual ISO, increases the dynamic range of the 5D Mark III and EOS 7D by four stops, bringing the total dynamic range to 14EV. This allows you to pull detail out of the shadows with a lot less noise than with the ‘stock’ firmware. Click through for more details.
Fujifilm has given more details about its upcoming firmware updates for the X-Pro1 and X-E1 (Versions 3.00 for the X-Pro1, and 2.00 for the X-E1). In addition to the existing promise to improve autofocus speed, it says that focus accuracy will be improved with difficult subjects. The updates will also add a ‘focus peaking’ function to aid manual focus, and improve image stabilisation during movie recording with the 18-55mm F2.8-4 lens. They are due to be available for download on 23rd July.
Panasonic has released firmware updates for its Lumix DMC-GH3 and DMC-G5 mirrorless cameras. Version 1.2 for the GH3 adds a ‘Low light focus’ mode that works down to -3 EV, a ‘Silent Mode’, and an ‘Exposure Compensation Reset’ function. Meanwhile version 1.1 for the G5 only corrects wording of the Motion Picture menu on cameras sold in PAL broadcast regions, and therefore isn’t required by US owners. Click through for download links.
Pentax has announced firmware updates to two of its tiny Q-series interchangeable lens cameras, the original Q and last year’s Q10. Firmware version 1.13 for the Q and 1.02 for the Q10 add support for the PENTAX-07 Mount Shield Lens, and bring ‘improved stability for general performance’. Click through for links to download the new firmware.
Nikon has released a firmware update for its Nikon D7100 digital SLR. Firmware version C 1.01 corrects errors in how certain kinds of shooting data is displayed, and aims to resolve other issues relating to live view shooting of stills and video. Click through for more details and a link to download the latest D7100 firmware.
Fujifilm officially announced (surprise) their new X-M1 camera as well as new Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 R and XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS lenses. Many sites around the web have full write ups and test reports.
Of particular interest, to me at least, is new firmware for the X-Pro1 and X-E1 cameras that features focus peaking.
Fuji is to be lauded for continuing to update their existing camera line with firmware enhancements, something which other companies seem not to do with as great frequency.
It’s curious to note though that there are two firmware updates available, one dated today, June 25, for V2.05 and another dated July 23! for Version 3.0. Both for the X-Pro 1. Ooops!?
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