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The Pictar Pro gives your smartphone physical dials, add-on viewfinder

05 Oct

Miggo has launched the latest in its line of camera grips for smartphones with the Pictar Pro, a model that offers users enhanced handling and access to hidden features of their phones, as well as an optional viewfinder for shooting in bright conditions. The company promises that this next generation Pictar makes it easier to control the camera functions of your iOS or Android phone through new larger dials and buttons, as well as a rocker switch that can control the camera’s zoom.

The Pictar Pro clamps around the smartphone and connects to it via high frequency sound waves, leaving Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and physical ports free for other functions. The device recognizes the type and model of phone automatically by communicating with the Pictar App that users need to install. The Pictar Pro also comes with an optional built-in power supply that can roughly double the time the phone operates between charges.

The new larger press/turn dials control the app in the camera and give access to features many native camera apps don’t include. Users can control the shutter speed of their phone’s camera, as well as dial in exposure compensation, use focus and exposure lock, access different flash modes and work in ISO or Shutter priority exposure modes.

The highlight for me though is the optional viewfinder that plugs into the Pictar Pro to let the app know it is in use. When the app detects the collapsible viewfinder the phone’s display screen shrinks to the size of the viewfinder so that the whole screen can be seen through the eye piece. This allows better stability for longer exposures as well as giving users a clearer view of what they are shooting in bright conditions. It makes the phone feel much more like a ‘real’ camera.

The free Pictar App gives users a choice of RAW, TIF and JPEG file formats, advanced white balance settings, a histogram display and options for aspect ratios. A cold shoe lets accessories, such as video lights, be mounted on the top of the grip, and the base is fitted with a standard tripod thread.

Kickstarter backers will be able to get the Pictar Pro for between $ 129 and $ 189. The estimated price once the campaign finishes is $ 250 for a kit including the viewfinder and accessories.

For more information see the Miggo website, or the Pictar Pro Kickstarter campaign page.

Miggo Returns to Kickstarter and Goes Pro with the New Pictar Pro, the World’s Most Advanced Camera Grip for iPhones and Androids

Pictar Pro unlocks possibilities on the smartphone camera to take control and get the best quality video and photography

Offers 12 incredible camera features to create a highly capable DSLR camera and mobile studio with advanced video features

Miggo is further enhancing the mobile photography and video experience with the introduction of Pictar Pro exclusively on Kickstarter the same community-driven platform that helped launch its original breakthrough smartphone camera grip concept worldwide a year and a half ago. Pictar Pro unlocks smartphone possibilities (for both iPhones and Androids) to enjoy remarkable camera control and creativity not possible with the smartphone camera by itself. Starting August 28, 2018, anyone can back the development of Pictar Pro on Kickstarter at http://crwd.ly/pictar_pro1

Smartphone cameras’ potential aren’t fully realized. Despite the fact that Apple and Android smartphone makers invest tens of millions of dollars yearly in optical lens development, most users don’t take full advantage of their smartphone’s photography tools. And controlling the smartphone’s camera is done through menus, which isn’t very convenient.

“Photography is about capturing the moment, not digging around menus to figure out the best way to capture the moment,” said Guy Sprukt of Miggo. “Pictar Pro helps take control of your photography along with the best-quality video not possible with the smartphone camera alone.”

Feels like a Real Camera and Shoots like a Real Camera

Pictar Pro takes all the exciting features that made Pictar One a world-class success, and upgrades them further, offering unmatched control over the phone’s camera with four improved external camera control buttons, a ‘shark-skin’ ergonomic grip, Qi wireless charging to keep the smartphone charged for continuous shooting, a unique viewfinder for shooting on bright days, advanced video capabilities and more. And the new Pro version is designed to be more like a Leica camera with a classic solid satin-finish brass body used in traditional cameras to offer a more substantial feel.

The heart of the system and the engine that drives Pictar Pro is Pictar App, a powerful advanced photo application for iPhones and Androids with pro-level features and user-friendly interface – which allows unmatched control over a variety of photo options.

A lot of intelligence is built inside, from recognizing which device is being used (i.e.: iPhone vs Samsung Galaxy, vs Sony) to intelligently adjusting the camera for macro shots to uniquely connecting the viewfinder that automatically shrinks the image down on the phone to the size of the viewfinder via proprietary technology. And the Pictar Pro is simple as plug and play. Simply slide the phone in and start using it with the Pictar App. No need to attach anything or rely on connecting to Bluetooth nor the lightening port.

Turn your smartphone into a powerful video camera. Whether recording a family event or vlogging on YouTube, Pictar Pro offers advanced video capabilities and allows for professional accessories to be connected such as a tripod, microphone, LED lighting and external lenses.

12 Incredible Camera features not available with smartphones by itself – but only with Pictar Pro.

These include:

  • New classic satin-finish brass body with sturdy camera grip that provides the feeling of a real camera and allows for one-handed shooting.
  • Four external larger control wheels and buttons for easy one hand and one-touch use with better control over the camera’s features for sharper pictures.
  • Exposure compensation wheel for superior control over the exposure and darkness or brightness of the image.
  • Multi-state Shutter Release button offers two modes: a half-press to lock the focus and exposure, and a full click to shoot.
  • Rocker Zoom Switch for ease of use and continuous smooth motion of the zoom, even in video shooting. And depress it to change from front-to-back camera for fun selfies.
  • Smart Wheel – Rotate the wheel left and right to switch between 9 different shooting modes: Auto, Shutter Priority, ISO Priority, Manual, Macro, Video, Selfie, Sport and Filters
  • Press the wheel to switch between the different flash modes. The button can be easily programmed to change its function via the application.
  • Viewfinder, which easily connects to see the smartphone’s screen even on a very bright day.
  • Qi wireless charging via an internal battery to keep smartphone going to never miss a great shot.
  • Shutter speed control for “freezing” or blurring the image.
  • ISO control for “cleaner” pictures.
  • Larger zoom range over iPhone to get even closer to the object.
  • Advanced image formats: jpeg / tiff / raw for larger and more detailed files.
  • Multi-featured camera app (free) for better performance and many more options.
  • Tripod attachment great for night photography, long exposures and family selfies.
  • “Cold shoe” connector designed for a microphone or lighting accessories for adding light to any dark scene. Designated side-window allows cord connection
  • Breakthrough wireless connectivity to connect to Pictar Pro to the Pictar App, transferring commands from the various buttons using patented technology of high frequency sound waves.

Pictar Pro fits all sizes of iPhones (from 6 to X, including all Plus models), and a wide range of selected Android and is future proofed for new iPhone models that will be launched soon. Included are a hand strap and neck strap made from a stylish parachute cord with real leather elements, and a premium quality fabric pouch for keeping the Pro when not in use.

Rewards
Miggo has four successful crowdfunding campaigns under its belt with all products delivered to its backers. Miggo chose to bring back Pictar Pro to its loyal Kickstarter community and will be providing special offers including an early-bird price starting at $ 119 (limited availability). Rewards will be range from $ 129 to $ 189. Pictar Pro is estimated to retail for $ 245, which includes the Pictar Pro unit, carrying case, neck strap, wrist strap, viewfinder, charging cable, and Pictar app. It is now available for pre-order on http://crwd.ly/pictar_pro1. Delivery estimates of the Pictar Pro are for the beginning of 2019.

About Miggo
Miggo was established five years ago to bring photography lovers innovative and fun products that make the photography experience more enjoyable and successful. With decades of experience in product development in the field of photography, Miggo develops and markets breakthrough products for smartphones, DSLR cameras, drones and action cameras. The company headquarters are located in Israel and its development center is located in the UK.
Website: myMiggo.com

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Latest Nikon mirrorless teaser gives a closer look at body and lens mount

02 Aug

Nikon has published a new 30 second teaser video about its upcoming mirrorless system, which will be announced on August 23rd. As with most teasers there aren’t many details here (though there’s a nice tour of classic Nikon bodies), but at the end we get a good look at the DSLR-style design of the camera (complete with what looks like a very D850-style handgrip) and its new mount.

Of some possible significance is the fact that the D/SLR bodies featured in this latest teaser video are all professional models…

Given all of the ‘coming soon’ placeholders on Nikon’s website, it’s safe to assume that more videos are forthcoming. What do you make of the latest teaser? Let us know in the comments.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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PolarPro’s new buyback program gives you credit towards a new filter when you trade in an old one

20 Jun

Earlier this year, PolarPro stepped up its filter game and brought its expertise to the world of DSLR and mirrorless cameras with its QuartzLine filters.

As a follow-up to its latest filter lineup, PolarPro has launched a buyback program that will let you get a certain amount of credit towards a new filter if you return an old one – even if it’s not theirs.

Here’s how it works. For any 37mm or 46mm filter you send in, you’ll be given a $ 20 credit towards a new PolarPro filter. For 67mm, 77mm and 82mm filter sizes, you’ll be given $ 40 in PolarPro credit. You will receive one credit for each filter you send in. Once you’ve agreed to the PolarPro terms for the return, you’ll be given a discount code to use with your PolarPro purchase.

This is the dialog box you’ll see when asked to agree to the terms of the buyback program.

Once your purchase is made, PolarPro will send you an email with a prepaid label to send in your old filter(s). Simply package them up and ship them off within 14 days of receiving your new QuartzLine filter and you’re good to go. You can even use the box they shipped you your new filter in. PolarPro notes that any filters sent in will be recycled or repurposed.

To find out more information and get started with your trade-in, head on over to PolarPro’s buyback page.

Read our original article about QuartzLine filters (April 2018)

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Red gives deep-space sensor dual ISO and puts it on general release

29 Mar

A sensor designed to be used in space has gone on general release from cinema camera manufacturer Red. The Gemini 5K S35 was originally created especially to work in very low light conditions, but has been adapted to offer dual native ISO settings so it can also shoot in normal conditions. The sensor uses particularly large pixels and features a resolution of 15.4MP on 30.72 x 18mm dimensions.

Red claims the Gemini has a dynamic range of 16.5 stops when used in Standard mode, which makes it good at recording very bright highlights and deep shadow detail in the same frame. When switched to Low Light mode some dynamic range is sacrificed, but in return users get exceptional noise performance that produces footage at ISO 3200 in LL (Low Light) mode that looks the same as movie recorded at ISO 800 in Standard mode, according to the company.

It seems the sensor uses different hardware behind the pixels to deal with each of the sensitivity modes, in a similar fashion to the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5s and the EVA1 cameras. The LL and Normal modes are selected in the menu and become active immediately. To maximize the resolution of anamorphic work Red has made the Gemini 5K S35 slightly taller than the standard sensors it uses by adding 300 pixels to the vertical recording area to make a 5120×3000-pixel area.

The Gemini sensor can be bought in the Epic-W body with prices starting at $ 24,000. For more information see the Red website.

Key features of the EPIC-W with GEMINI 5K S35 sensor:

  • New 5K S35 sensor that delivers optimized low-light performance
  • 15.4 Megapixel Dual Sensitivity CMOS Sensor
  • 30.72 mm x 18 mm (Diagonal: 35.61 mm)
  • Dual sensitivity sensor provides greater flexibility for a variety of shooting environments
  • Seamless switching between Standard and Low Light modes ( no reboot needed )
  • 5K up to 96 fps Full Format
  • 16.5 stops of DR
  • 4K upto 30fps and 2K upto 120fps using ProRes or Avid
  • Simultaneously record REDCODE plus ProRes or Avid
  • Up to 275 MB/s write speeds
  • Interchangeable lens mount

Press release

Introducing The New GEMINI 5K S35 Sensor

Today, RED introduced the new GEMINI™ 5K S35 sensor for the RED EPIC-W camera. GEMINI 5K S35 leverages dual sensitivity modes to provide creators with greater flexibility for a variety of shooting environments. Whether capturing with GEMINI’s Standard Mode for well-lit conditions or its Low Light Mode for darker environments, RED EPIC-W 5K S35 delivers incredible dynamic range and produces cinema-quality images.

The GEMINI 5K S35 sensor provides exceptional low-light performance, allowing for cleaner imagery with less noise and better shadow detail. Operators can easily switch between modes through the camera’s on-screen menu with no down time and experience an increased field of view at 2K and 4K resolutions compared to the higher resolution HELIUM sensor. In addition, the sensor’s 30.72 mm x 18 mm dimensions allow for greater anamorphic lens coverage than with the HELIUM or RED DRAGON sensor.

Built on the compact DSMC2 form factor, the RED EPIC-W 5K camera and sensor combination captures 5K full format motion at up to 96 fps, boasts incredibly fast data speeds of up to 275 MB/s, and provides in-camera support of RED’s enhanced image processing pipeline, IPP2. Like all cameras in the DSMC2 line up, EPIC-W 5K is able to shoot simultaneous REDCODE RAW and Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD/HR recording and adheres to RED’s dedication to OBSOLESCENCE OBSOLETE—a core operating principle that allows current RED owners to upgrade their technology as innovations are unveiled without having to purchase all new gear.

“While the GEMINI sensor was developed for low-light conditions in outer space, we quickly saw there was so much more to this sensor,” says Jarred Land, President of RED Digital Cinema. “In fact, we loved the potential of this sensor so much, we wanted to evolve it to make it have a broader appeal. As a result, the EPIC-W GEMINI now sports dual-sensitivity modes. It still has the low-light performance mode, but also has a default, standard mode that allows you to shoot in brighter conditions.”

Beginning at $ 24,500, the new RED EPIC-W with GEMINI 5K S35 sensor is available for purchase online and through select worldwide RED Authorized Dealers. Alternatively, WEAPON Carbon Fiber and RED EPIC-W 8K customers will have the option to upgrade to the GEMINI sensor at a later date.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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iFixit tears down the iPhone X, gives it 6 out of 10 on ‘repairability’

05 Nov
Image: Ifixit

The brand new Apple iPhone X just got a complete teardown from iFixit.com, which rates the device a 6 out of 10 on its repairability scale, putting it on the same level as the iPhone 8 Plus and Google Pixel 2 XL. It’s easier to repair than a Samsung Galaxy Note 8 though, which scored only 4 points.

The iFixit team were particularly impressed with the repairability of battery and display; the latter, for example, can be replaced without removing the biometric Face ID hardware. On the downside, the analysis found that unrelated components are tied together by cables, turning them into complex assemblies that are difficult and expensive to replace.

The teardown also gets us a good look at the iPhone X Dual 12 MP cameras—wide-angle and telephoto, with F1.8 and F2.4 apertures and OIS—and the 7 MP TrueDepth front camera with F2.2 aperture, 1080p HD video recording, and Face ID. Head over the ifixit.com for the full report and lots of detail images of iPhone X innards.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The new BenQ SW271 27″ 4K monitor gives photographers full color control

02 Nov

BenQ has launched a new monitor designed for professional photographers who need both high resolution and extremely accurate colors: the 27″ SW271. This model builds upon the company’s previous SW2700PT display, offering support for HDR10 alongside a 4K 3840 x 2160 resolution and the maker’s AQCOLOR technology.

With the AQCOLOR tech, users are given total control over the display’s color via hardware calibration and the maker’s Palette Master Elements software. The inclusion of advanced hardware color calibration helps enable the SW271 to meet strict color accuracy standards, according to BenQ, which says its display is ideal for “color-critical applications.”

Users have the option of viewing content simultaneously in different color spaces via GamutDuo, plus there’s a Hotkey Puck for toggling between the monitor’s various modes, including: 99% Adobe RBG coverage, 100% sRGB/Rec. 709 coverage, 93% DCI-P3 coverage, plus a Black & White option.

Monitor connectivity includes DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0; there’s also an SD card reader, USB-C, and a USB 3.1 port. The shade featured in the above image is included with the monitor and can be removed. The monitor is available now for $ 1,100 USD.

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Press Release

BenQ’s Dynamic SW271 Monitor Offers Professional Photographers Picture-Perfect Performance

New 4K HDR-Enabled Color-Accurate Display Comes Equipped With BenQ’s AQCOLOR™ Technology and USB-C™ Connectivity

COSTA MESA, Calif. — Nov. 1, 2017 — BenQ America Corp., an internationally renowned provider of visual display solutions, today introduced a new 27″ 4K UHD (3840×2160) monitor that offers professional photographers unprecedented color accuracy through new AQCOLOR technology, high specifications and picture-perfect performance.

Building on the success of its award-winning predecessor the SW2700PT, the SW271 sets a new benchmark for image quality. The HDR10-enabled monitor allows users to see their images and videos in a wider dynamic range than a typical monitor. The sleek display is user friendly and offers colors so true that it brings out the fine detail and creative essence of every photo, whether it’s been taken by a seasoned professional or an amateur hobbyist.

BenQ’s AQCOLOR technology allows users to have complete color control over images. AQCOLOR uses a combination of hardware calibration, BenQ’s signature Palette Master Elements software and Technicolor® Color Certification, which ensures the monitor meets the strict color accuracy standards used in Hollywood and the entertainment media.

“We are proud to present the SW271, which joins our full line of professional monitors developed for photographers,” said Steve Yang, Senior Director at BenQ America Corp. “The SW271 brings users specialized tools and advanced hardware calibration for color-critical applications. It also has USB-C™ connectivity for transmitting video and data signals using just one cable for convenience.”

With 99% Adobe RGB, 93%DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB/Rec. 709 coverage, users are given an unrivalled image performance for visual perfection in professional photo editing. The SW271 also features Delta E?2, with its true 10-bit IPS panel and advanced 14-bit 3D lookup table (LUT). GamutDuo enables users to view content simultaneously in different color spaces side-by-side, and a Hotkey Puck allows users to effortlessly switch between a variety of modes, such as Adobe RGB, sRGB and Black & White modes.

The monitor also features an SD card reader, USB 3.1, USB Type-C, HDMI 2.0, and DisplayPort 1.4 ports. A detachable shading hood is also included to reduce the monitor’s screen glare.

The BenQ SW271 monitor retails at $ 1,099. For more information on the SW271, see http://www.benq.us/product/monitor/sw271 and to view the full line of BenQ creative class monitors, visit http://www.benq.us/product/monitor/creative_class/.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Pentagon gives military bases approval to shoot down wayward camera drones

08 Aug

Federal UAV regulations prohibit drone operators from flying drones near or over airports or military bases, but that hasn’t stopped some individuals from doing it anyway. But if you’ve been bold (read: stupid) enough to break those rules, be warned: military bases are now authorized to shoot down or seize your drone.

The directive comes straight from the Pentagon, who gave military bases the authority to shoot down any drones, whether commercial or private, that fly into their airspace and are believed to be a threat starting last month.

Confirmation of the new policy was announced yesterday by Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, according to Military Times. “The new guidance does afford of the ability to take action to stop these [drone] threats,” said Davis, “and that includes disabling, destroying and tracking.” As part of the authorization, a military base could seize a drone.

Overall, the new policy covers 135 military installations, though there are some questions remaining about whether drones will be deemed threats if operated on lands used by both the military and private citizens. One example is the land around Minot Air Force Base, which is leased to both private and commercial farmers; under the land are silos containing ballistic missiles, making it unclear whether those farmers are free to survey their crops and livestock using drones.

The FAA had a role in the formation of this new policy, which leaves some room for military bases to make determinations about how to handle any given drone that operates in its space. However, the criteria that a military base might use to determine whether or not it will seize, disable and/or destroy a wayward drone wasn’t revealed.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony 1000 fps sensor gives high-speed vision to industrial robots

23 Jul

Sony is the global market leader in the image sensor field, producing imager chips not only for cameras and smartphones but also for industrial applications. Now, one of the features that we first saw in a Sony smartphone camera has made its way into a newly announced sensor meant for use with robots in manufacturing.

The Sony 1/3.02″ IMX382 sensor allows industrial robots to detect and track objects at 1,000 frames per second, which could result in autonomous machines that can react to an object’s movements or other changes in their environment in real time.

The sensor not only captures images at high speed, it’s also capable of processing them and sending information to the machine it is attached—no computer or other additional processing unit is required. In the video below, you can see how the technology is used to identify different currencies at high speed, track several objects at the same time and visually inspect items without a need to slow-down a conveyor belt or production line.

The Sony IMX382 will be available to potential customers very soon, with sample shipping envisaged for October 2017.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Stacked: Cleverly Designed Chinese Hotel Gives Everyone a Unique View

04 May

[ By SA Rogers in Boutique & Art Hotels & Travel. ]

Despite sharing a tiny footprint of land with other guests at this Chinese hotel, you can practically forget anyone else exists altogether thanks to a clever stacked arrangement that points each level in a different direction. Step out onto your private balcony – located on the roof of the room below – and look out onto the peaceful forest of rural Huang Shan, Anhui Province, China. Designed by Shanghai-based architecture firm Bengo Studio, the Qinyushan Tree House is a beautiful use of space.

A spiral staircase runs up through the center of the hotel, which includes two guest rooms, two bathrooms, one living room, and a ‘landscape room’ located at the top of the building. Each room has its own roof access with a glass railing to avoid interrupting views of the trees.

Elevated off the forest floor, the hotel features curvy volumes fanning out in different directions from the central core, capped on each cantilevered end by floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests ascend an enclosed glass hallway to either walk down into the lowest bedroom and bathroom, or ascend to the upper levels.

Its vertical wooden cladding helps it blend into its natural environment, and the minimalist design is an interesting take on modern treehouse-inspired structures.

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[ By SA Rogers in Boutique & Art Hotels & Travel. ]

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DxOMark gives RED Helium 8K sensor a record-breaking 108 score

12 Jan

DxOMark has given RED’s 35.4MP Helium 8K sensor its highest overall score ever: 108. This makes the prototype sensor the second ever to exceed the 100 point milestone, joined only by the RED Epic Dragon prototype, which scored 101. DxOMark says the Helium is a ‘solid upgrade’ over the Epic Dragon, offering better color depth, less noise, improved low-light ISO and a greater dynamic range.

DxOMark explains that while both the Dragon and Helium sensors are ‘physically similar,’ the Helium ultimately offers more densely packed pixels at approximately 3.65 microns each. Less impressive is the organization’s assessment of the dynamic range, which measured at 15.2 stops versus RED’s advertised 16.5+ stops. That is still greater than the Epic Dragon’s DxOMark dynamic range rating of 14.8 stops, however. 

Because both the Helium 8K and Epic Dragon tests were performed with prototype devices, neither model will be officially added to DxOMark’s device ranking list. The company does present a ‘simulation’ ranking that shows where the two models would fall if they were included, however: above the Sony a7R II, Nikon D810, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II, and the Pentax K-1.

Via: DxOMark

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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