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Posts Tagged ‘Introduces’

Hero shot: Rollocam introduces Hercules pocket motorized dolly

26 Apr

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A pocket-sized motorized camera dolly that runs on an AAA batteries is in the works from US company Rollocam. Hercules is programmable and consists of a three-wheeled body with a tripod screw and a single press-button controller. It’s designed to drive in straight lines or arcs, and is suitable for making movies as well as time-lapse sequences. A collection of accessories also allow it to rotate for 360° panoramas, while different sized wheels alter the speed at which it can travel. Two of the wheels are hinged to allow the user to set a curved path of travel, and the whole unit disassembles for packing away.

Rollocam says the device can support a 10lb weight, and that it can travel at seven speeds, from 2.5 to 20.3cm/1 to 8in per second, according to the wheels fitted. In time-lapse mode it can be set to travel between 0.13 and 12.7mm/0.005 and 0.5in, across eight settings, with intervals of 1 to 60 seconds.

Launched as a Kickstarter project last year the campaign raised over $ 380,000, and as the funds increased additional features were added – such as the use of magnets on the metal Rollocam track to stop the dolly and send it back in the other direction. The company says it is also now working on a camera trigger that synchronizes with the traveling dolly so that time-lapse frames can be recorded in an automated move-shoot-move sequence.

The basic Hercules costs $ 125 on a pre-order deal, and the premium kit with extra wheels, a panorama plate and a mounting plate for heavier cameras costs $ 249. For more information visit the Rollocam website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fotodiox introduces extra large WonderPana Free Arc system for Canon EF 11-24mm wide zoom

31 Mar

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US accessory manufacturer Fotodiox has announced an XL version of its WonderPana Free Arc filter system for wide angle lenses that it says is designed specifically to allow users of the Canon EF 11-24mm F4L USM lens to use filters over the front element. The Canon super-wide zoom has no filter thread of its own and the front element is heavily convex, so fitting filters in the traditional way is impossible. The WonderPana Free Arc system positions a filter holder over the front of the lens that takes 186mm screw-in filters and/or 80mm rectangular filter sheets. The holder is enormous so that large filters can be used to avoid vignetting when the lens is used at its widest setting.

The Free Arc clamps the hood of the lens between its collar and the screw-on filter-holding cone, and provides a 186mm thread for the company’s screw-in filters. A set of brackets can also be attached to the cone that allow two square filters to be fitted as well. The system makes it possible to fit one round filter and one square filter at the same time, and the whole filter stage is rotatable so graduated filters can be positioned to suit the subject.

The Fotodiox WonderPana Free Arc XL costs $ 225.95 and the 183mm filters start at $ 99.95. For more information visit the Free Arc page on the Fotodiox website.

Wide? Ultra-wide? WonderPana has you covered.

Ultra wide-angle lenses are typically impossible to filter due to their bulbous front lens element, lack of filter threads and potential for severe vignetting. The ALL NEWWonderPana FreeArc XL, however, is the latest in our line of aluminum filter collars that let you to attach our massive 186mm filter options, like ND 4-1000 and circular polarizers, to wide and ultra wide-angle lenses.

Perfect for landscape and architectural photographers and filmmakers, we designed the WonderPana FreeArc XL to suit Canon’s new breed of 11-24mm lens. Durable and lightweight enough for hand-held shooting, it can be ready at a moment’s notice to answer any image challenge that requires filters. You can even keep it installed on your lens as a critical layer of lens protection. Just check out our video below to learn more:

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Tamrac introduces colorful, water-resistant Hoodoo backpacks

19 Mar

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Bag manufacturer Tamrac has introduced a pair of water resistant backpacks designed for ‘hiking and outdoor’ photographers. The two Hoodoo bags are made with waxed canvas and PU-coated nylon that’s intended to keep out the rain, and they come in a choice of Kiwi green, pumpkin orange and ocean blue.

There are two versions; the Hoodoo 18 and the Hoodoo 20. The 20 is the larger and comprises two separate compartments and a removable camera module that has its own strap for carrying over a shoulder. The camera module has room for a small DSLR with a few extra lenses, while the upper part of the bag can be used for clothes and features a slot for a 15in laptop.

The Hoodoo 18 is suitable for a DSLR and a pair of lenses, and again the camera module is removable. The camera’s Goblin pouch fits into the upper compartment, while the front of the bag is for other items and a 13in laptop.

The Hoodoo 18 costs $ 79.95/£89.99 and the Hoodoo 20 $ 129.95/£130. For more information see the Tamrac website.

Press release:

New Tamrac Hoodoo Backpacks

Designed for adventure, the new series of backpacks take you and your camera anywhere you want to go.

Made from water resistant waxed canvas and PU coated, lightweight ripstop nylon, Tamrac Hoodoo packs feature comfortable harnesses and high-grade components. Available in 2 sizes and three vibrant colours, the Hoodoo series is destined to be your go to camera bag for hiking and outdoor use.

The Hoodoo18 is designed for carrying compact DSLR cameras or mirrorless systems plus a lens or two. Tuck your camera and extra lens into a Tamrac Goblin pouch and then pop them in the Hoodoo 18’s upper padded compartment, your personal gear in the main compartment and up to a 13” laptop in the laptop sleeve and you are ready for the day’s adventure.

Larger than the 18 model, the Hoodoo 20 is actually 3 packs in one: a fully protective camera backpack, stand alone camera shoulder bag or stylish day pack.

As a camera backpack, the Hoodoo 20 has easy access through the front of the pack to grab your camera. The fully protective camera module carries compact DSLRs and mirror-less camera systems with extra lenses. The top portion of the bag carries personal items as well as most 15″ laptops in it’s own protective sleeve. Or take out the protective camera module and use as a shoulder bag with included shoulder strap. The included dividers are fully customizable to adapt to your camera gear.

Both models are available in 3 colours: Kiwi green, Pumpkin orange and Ocean blue.
Suggested retail prices as follows:

Tamrac Hoodoo 18 £89.99 inc VAT
Tamrac Hoodoo 20 £130.00 inc VAT

Both bags are available immediately.

www.tamrac.co.uk

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Adobe Camera Raw 9.5 introduces new color scheme

18 Mar

Camera Raw gets a new look with version 9.5, available now. The update introduces a color scheme that brings Adobe’s Raw conversion software in line with Photoshop and Bridge. ACR 9.5 also extends support to a dozen new cameras, including the Nikon D5/D500 and Canon EOS 80D, fixes a handful of bugs and adds support for new lenses like the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 and 24-70mm F2.8 GM. Get the full details at Adobe’s Lightroom blog.

Camera Raw 9.5 direct download for Windows and Mac

DNG Converter 9.5 download for Windows and Mac

Bugs Fixed in Camera Raw 9.5

  • Fix crash/hang in Camera Raw and DNG Converter on some Mac systems when saving multiple images.
  • Fix corruption issue that would prevent DNG images originally created by Parrot Bebop Drone devices from being opened after metadata updates.
  • Pressing the Option/Alt key while click-dragging on a perimeter handle of a Radial Filter will adjust only that side of the filter. This change in behavior was made to match Lightroom’s behavior. Previously, Option/Alt-clicking on a Radial Filter in Camera Raw would delete that filter.
  • Camera Raw Filter now displays the histogram and RGB color readouts using the assigned color space of the corresponding Photoshop document. Previously, Camera Raw Filter always displayed its histogram and RGB color readouts using the ProPhoto color space.
  • Improve quality of Boundary Warp for some panoramas.
  • Fix bug where EXIF metadata for SIGMA 50mm f/1.4 ART lens on Canon was incorrectly identified as Zeiss Milvus 50mm f/1.4.

New Camera Support in Camera Raw 9.5

  • Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
  • Canon EOS 80D
  • Canon EOS 1300D (Rebel T6, Kiss X80)
  • Nikon D5
  • Nikon D500
  • Olympus PEN-F
  • Olympus SH-3
  • Panasonic DMC-CM10
  • Panasonic DMC-GF8
  • Panasonic DMC-ZS100 (DMC-ZS110, DMC-TZ100, DMC-TZ101, DMC-TZ110, DMC-TX1)
  • Samsung NX3300
  • Sony Alpha a6300 (ILCE-6300)
  • Yuneec CGO4

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Phase One introduces second XF feature update and pair of Schneider Kreuznach lenses

17 Mar

The Phase One XF camera system received a significant update today, with improvements to its autofocus system and user interface along with additional shooting tools such as focus stacking and HDR. Two new ‘Blue Ring’ lenses have also been added, along with an update to the company’s Capture One software.

The update provides Phase One’s medium-format XF system with tools to help automate focus stacking and time-lapse capture, as well as a self timer and automated HDR bracketing. The system’s HoneyBee Autofocus Platform also gets an update, claiming increased accuracy in low light, better acquisition in low contrast scenes and ‘improved hand held success.’

In terms of hardware, the Schneider Kreuznach 110mm LS F2.8 and 240mm LS F4.5 join the system, manufactured ‘to Phase One’s highest standards’ with metal lens hoods and milled aluminum AF/MF selector rings.

Capture One Pro 9.1 gets an update geared mostly toward fashion and still life work, with new workflow and image editing tools, including tools to correct uneven skin tone.

The XF system firmware update is free and available now from Phase One. The Schneider Kreuznach 110mm LS F2.8 will cost $ 5390/£4490; the 240mm LS F4.5 will cost $ 6490/£5690.

Press release:

Phase One Releases XF Camera System Feature Update #2 

Adding New XF Tools, Lenses & Software

COPENHAGEN, March. 17, 2016 – Phase One, the world’s leading medium format camera system provider, today released a major XF Camera System update.  With new tools, hardware, and software solutions Phase One continues to help top photographers create incredible images. The Ultimate Camera System continues to improve.

Feature Update #2 includes the addition of two new ‘Blue Ring’ lenses, along with the release of Capture One Pro 9.1, an update to the software used by 8 out 10 of the world’s best photographers (see today’s related software announcement).

The Phase One XF Camera System stands out against all other camera systems in terms of its performance and philosophy. The XF Camera System offers unprecedented long-term value thanks to its emphasis on modular firmware implementation and integrated, modular hardware designs, all of which permit continual feature enhancements. 

Phase One’s XF Camera System Update #2 introduces: 

Integrated Sequence photography: 

— Focus Stack Tool provides automated camera focus control throughout a sequence of captured images; ?

— Time-lapse Tool offers automated capture sequence at user set intervals;

— HDR Sequence Tool enables an automated bracketing sequence with unique metadata tags for Capture One integration; 

— Self Timer Delay provides a quick and easy, fully customizable timer option from one half to sixty seconds. ?

Additional updates to the XF Camera System: 

— HoneyBee Autofocus Platform update: Improvements have been made to increase accuracy in low light conditions, improve focus in various low contrast scenarios, and to provide improved hand held success;

— New OneTouch UI: Improved design and integration for intuitive, seamless operation on or off the XF Camera System;

Phase One Adds Two new members to its “Blue Ring” Lens family: ?

— New Schneider Kreuznach 110mm LS f/2.8; a technical masterpiece and an artistic vision. The 110mm offers a ‘normal’ focal length view in stunning technical precision.

— New Schneider Kreuznach 240mm LS f/4.5; the essential Telephoto lens. The 240mm is a must for any lens lineup, offering the definitive telephoto look for any shot.

The new lenses feature a metal focusing ring and AF/MF selector ring of precision milled aluminum, as well as a metal lens hood with anti-skid rubber edging. The lenses are manufactured to Phase One’s highest standards, including improved quality assurance measures and tighter tolerances for better, more reliable lens performance. 

For all the details, please go to: www.phaseone.com/XF-Platform-Update or book a demo on: www.phaseone.com/demo 

Phase One Releases Capture One 9.1 with improved XF camera system integration ?   

Capture One 9 continues to grow alongside the XF Camera System.  The new tools available within the XF are well integrated to Capture One 9.1, providing excellent workflow advantages with proprietary image sequence tags.  For all the details, please see today’s related press release, “Phase One Releases Capture One Pro 9.1 for Photographers”

Availability and Pricing 

Firmware for the XF Camera System Feature Update #2 is free and available for download here: http://www.phaseone.com/Download/Camera-Firmware

New Schneider Kreuznach leaf shutter lenses are available through Phase One photography partners worldwide: www.phaseone.com/partners?

Prices for Schneider Kreuznach 110mm LS f/2.8 — 4.490 EUR / 5.390 USD Prices for Schneider Kreuznach 240mm LS f/4.5 IF – 5.690 EUR / 6.490 USD 

Optimized for use with the XF Camera System, Capture One is free when used with Phase One hardware. Capture One 9.1. is free for all current owners of Capture One 9. Owners of Capture One 7 and 8 can upgrade to Capture One 9.1 for 99 USD / 99 EUR.

Phase One Releases Capture One Pro 9.1

Boosting Workflow Performance for Pro Photographers

COPENHAGEN, March 17, 2016 — Phase One, the world’s leading medium format camera system and professional imaging software provider today released Capture One Pro 9.1. Focus for this release has been the fashion and still life photographer segment, with special attention to the demands of fast-paced work environments.  

Known by professionals for its excellent tethering abilities, color management, and intuitive, user-definable, interface, Capture One Pro is used by photographers that demand exceptional image quality.

Capture One Pro 9.1 builds on the design objectives for greater quality, power and precision introduced last year with version 9.0 — adding workflow accelerators and providing a superior integrated workflow. 

Capture One Pro 9.1 is free to existing 9 users. To see the Capture One Pro 9.1 feature set in action, visit: www.phaseone.com/nineone

Capture One Pro 9.1 highlights include:

New Workflow Tools

— ‘Copy from last’ has been re-designed for rotation, allowing for easier workflow when doing overhead shots; 

— ‘Copy from last’ has been re-designed to allow the inclusion of metadata, making shot-to-shot application of copyright and other metadata easier and more intuitive; 

— Rotatable Live View — live view can be orientated for still life work with next captures mirroring the live view orientation; 

— Improved Shortcuts — a number of extra shortcuts are added to aid the professional workflow – reset counters, layer controls, and “select by…” are added to help in all areas of the workflow. 

New Image Editing Tools

— New Skin Tone Uniformity Tool for saturation and lightness;

— New Color Editor Tools — the Color Editor Skin Tone Tool adds uniformity sliders for saturation and lightness, helping to correct for uneven skin tones.

Asset management tools

— Export/Output keyword restrictions — control and limit the keyword libraries output to final file;

— Sequence tool management for the XF Camera System (with Feature Update #2) — Images captured via the XF’s new Focus Stack, HDR Sequence and Time-lapse Tools are automatically tagged and can be automated in to collections easily  

“Capture One Pro 9.1 is about quality of life improvements for working photographers,” said James Johnson, Phase One Software Product Manager. “We’ve been listening to our core user base and made some valuable additions to the application, designed ultimately to help with efficiency. In the ever increasingly competitive marketplace, production value is all about better workflow and less work.” 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony introduces Cyber-shot DSC-HX80 30x travel zoom

08 Mar

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Sony is unveiling its third in a series of 30x zoom compacts, the Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. It offers a built-in pop-up EVF like the HX90, and uses an 18.2MP Exmor R CMOS sensor with Bionz X processor capable of 1080p HD video. Its zoom lens covers an equivalent 24-720mm range and is equipped with Optical SteadyShot stabilization. Size-wise, it’s just a tad bit smaller than the RX100 series, making it shirt pocketable. Wi-Fi and NFC are included, and the 921k-dot 3″ LCD flips upward for easier self portraits.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80 will ship in April for $ 350.

Press release:

Sony Announces New HX80 Compact Camera with 30x Zoom and Electronic Viewfinder 

New Model is World’s Smallest Camera with 30x Optical Zoom Lens1

SAN DIEGO, Mar. 7, 2016 – Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer, has today introduced the newest addition to their compact zoom camera lineup, the DSC-HX80 model.

The new camera features a variety of advanced imaging capabilities including 30x optical zoom, a high-resolution 18.2 MP2 Exmor R CMOS Sensor and a retractable OLED Tru-Finder in a class-leading compact body.  Along with the DSC-HX90V model, the HX80 camera becomes the only compact high-zoom camera with a retractable electronic viewfinder, making it an extremely appealing and flexible solution for travel and family photography and video shooting. 

The HX80 also features a high-resolution, 921k dot LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees for comfortable arms-length portraits or “selfies” and is Wi-Fi / NFC compatible.  

Key features for the new model are included below: 

Compact Hi-Zoom HX80 Camera w/ Built-in Retractable EVF
Available in April for about $ 350 

  • Premium 30x ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens with 60x “Clear Image” digital zoom capability
  • Built-in pop-up OLED Tru-Finder EVF w/ high contrast and vivid colors
  • 18.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor ensure the finest capture details for still images and Full HD videos in all lighting conditions
  • Optical SteadyShot with 5-axis image stabilization minimizes effects of camera shake
  • 921k dot, 3.0 type LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees 
  • Full HD movie shooting capabilities including high-speed XAVC S format at 50 Mbps 
  • Built-in ‘pop up’ flash for low-light shooting support
  • Compatible with Wi-Fi / NFC for seamless wireless transfer of content and with select Sony PlayMemories™ Camera apps 

1 Among compact digital cameras with a built-in viewfinder and 30x or greater optical zoom lens, as of April 13, 2015

2 Effective Megapixels

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 350
Body type
Body type Ultracompact
Sensor
Max resolution 4896 x 3672
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 18 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 21 megapixels
Sensor size 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Sensor type BSI-CMOS
Processor Bionz X
Color space sRGB
Color filter array Primary c0lor filter
Image
ISO Auto, 80-3200, expands to 12800 in Multi-Frame NR mode
Boosted ISO (maximum) 12800
White balance presets 9
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Optical
Image stabilization notes 5-axis (hybrid)
Uncompressed format No
JPEG quality levels Fine, standard
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3, DCF v2.0)
Optics & Focus
Focal length (equiv.) 24–720 mm
Optical zoom 30×
Maximum aperture F3.5 – F6.4
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Digital zoom Yes (2x)
Manual focus Yes
Normal focus range 5 cm (1.97″)
Macro focus range 5 cm (1.97″)
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 921,600
Touch screen No
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/2000 sec
Exposure modes
  • iAuto
  • Program
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Portrait
  • Advanced Sports Shooting
  • Landscape
  • Sunset
  • Night Scene
  • Handheld Twilight
  • Night Portrait
  • Anti Motion Blur
  • Pet Mode
  • Gourmet
  • Beach
  • Snow
  • Fireworks
  • Soft Skin
  • High Sensitivity
Built-in flash Yes
Flash range 5.40 m (with Auto ISO)
External flash No
Flash modes Auto, on, slow sync, off, rear sync
Drive modes
  • Single shot
  • Continuous
  • Single bracketing
  • Continuous bracketing
  • DRO bracketing
  • Self-timer
Continuous drive 10.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing (3 frames at 1/3 EV steps)
Videography features
Resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p)
Format MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types Memory Stick PRO Duo/Pro-HG Duo; SD/SDHC/SDXC
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port No
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n with NFC
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description NP-BX1 lithium-ion battery & USB charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 390
Weight (inc. batteries) 245 g (0.54 lb / 8.64 oz)
Dimensions 102 x 58 x 36 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.42″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Lee introduces 15-stop Super Stopper neutral density filter

05 Mar

Lee Filters has announced it is to offer a neutral density filter that converts what would normally be a two-second exposure into one that lasts 17 hours and 4 minutes. The new Super Stopper reduces the amount of light entering the lens by a massive 15 stops, to enable especially long shutter speeds in normal daylight conditions.

Available for the 100mm, SW150 and Sev5n ranges, the filter is made from what Lee describes as ‘high-quality optical glass’. It comes packaged in a protective tin case and has a lifetime warranty. The company says the filter induces only a slight color cast that it claims is easy to remove in post-production. It joins the 10-stop Big Stopper and the 6-stop Little Stopper in the company’s range of ND filters.

The filter factor of the Super Stopper is 3200 and it has a density of 4.5. It will be available soon, and the version for the SW150 series will cost $ 175. For more information on the company see the Lee Filters website – though the company hasn’t posted any details of the Super Stopper yet. There is more information though on the website of UK distributor, Linhof Studio.

Press release:

LEE Filters NEW Super Stopper Available for 100mm, SW150 and Sev5n.

With its 15 stops of light-reducing power, the Super Stopper sits at the top of the Stopper family, joining the Big and Little Stoppers in the long-exposure photography revolution.

The Super Stopper is designed for use in bright conditions, during the middle of the day – a time that’s traditionally considered unsuitable for photography because of the harsh, contrasty nature of the light.
However, with the Super Stopper filter fitted, the softness that arises from any movement contrasts pleasingly with any areas of bright light, creating an effect rarely seen in photography before now.

Like all the filters in the Stopper family, the Super Stopper is constructed from the high-quality optical glass and is supplied in a metal case for protection. It has only a minimal colour cast that is easily corrected in postproduction.

The exposure guide chart below allows you to find out the extremes to which photographers can now take their long exposures.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma introduces EF-630 multi-function flash

24 Feb

Sigma has announced a more powerful external flash for DSLRs, the EF-630. It updates the existing EF-610 flash units by covering a 24mm to 200mm focal range (as wide as 17mm with the built-in Wide Panel), with an auto zooming function. Based on Sigma’s naming conventions it’s safe to assume the EF-630 offers a guide number of 63. It’s also able to tilt upward by 90°, left/right by 180° and downward by 7°. It offers TTL exposure control, high-speed sync and slave mode for use with other flashes. 

No pricing or availability is given for the EF-610.

Press release:

Sigma Introduces Electronic Flash EF-630 Multifunctional External Flash

Boasts TTL exposure control, high-speed sync, wireless flash functions, rear-curtain sync, auto-zoom, and wide-angle illumination coverage and more

KANAGAWA, JAPAN — February 23, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessories manufacturer, has just announced the Sigma Electronic Flash EF-630, a multifunctional flash designed to work with current digital SLR cameras. Offering greater output of light, the EF-630 features TTL exposure control, high-speed sync, wireless flash functions, auto-zoom and bounce-flash, amongst additional features that make it ideal for many types of photography.

“Lighting is one of the most important factors when it comes to creating a beautiful image, and can be the difference between capturing the perfect moment and missing it entirely,” comments Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The EF-630 has all the features advanced photographers look for in a flash and is the perfect companion to the DSLR.”

The Sigma EF-630 flash automatically adjusts for focal lengths of 24mm to 200mm focal length, making it ideal for wide angle and super-zoomed shots alike. For ultra-wide angle shots, photographers can utilize the built-in Wide Panel to cover an angle of up to that of a 17mm lens.

Compatible with most well-known digital SLR cameras, the EF-630 features auto TTL exposure control, as well as remote control operation through the TTL wireless flash function, where the camera lens calculates the correct exposure automatically for perfect lighting. For multi-flash setups, photographers can use the Slave Flash Function to trigger additional flashes. To achieve a softer look, photographers can bounce light off of a white wall, ceiling or reflector by tilting the EF-630’s flash head upwards by as much as 90°, or swiveling left or right by 180°. For close-up shots, the flash head can also be titled down by 7°.

The FP Flash function of the EF-630 makes flash photography possible at shutter speeds greater than the normal sync speed, which is typically limited at shutter speeds up to 1/250 second for most cameras. The FP Flash function for high shutter speeds is necessary when setting a larger aperture to limit depth of field when shooting in daylight, as high shutter speeds are used to balance the daylight and the flashlight at any shutter speed. To capture natural motions, the Rear-curtain Sync mode allows the flash to be triggered immediately before the rear-curtain of the shutter closes, recording blurred trails behind a moving subject rather than in front.

Additional EF-630 features:

  • Intuitive user interface: dot matrix LCD screen for improved menu visibility, D-Pad and dial settings controls, and easy one-click disengage function improve ease of use
  • Modeling flash function: check for intense reflections and shadows before capturing the shot
  • AF assist light: accurate auto-focus in low light conditions
  • Auto Power-off: flashgun automatically powers off after a period of non-operation to conserve battery life
  • Manual flash power level control: manually sets the flash power level from 1/1 to 1/128

The new EF-630 Flash can be updated with the latest software from a workstation or laptop using the Sigma Optimization Pro software and Flash USB Dock (sold separately).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto introduces six new monopods for XPRO range

13 Feb
From the top down, Prime, Over and Land monopods from Manfrotto

Tripod and accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has announced a total of six new monopods that it has added to the XPRO range, including models in carbon fiber as well as aluminum. The models cover three families of monopods: Prime for the heaviest equipment, Over for those who need height but for lighter kit, and Land for traveling.

The Prime models come in three variants, one of which has four sections and is made of carbon fiber. The other two are aluminum, and one of those features a pop-out three-leg support system that is concealed within the lower leg section. The Prime models can support up to 10kg / 22lbs and offer a maximum height of 168cm / 66.14in.

The Over series can support up to 7kg / 15.43lbs, and offer heights of up to 176cm / 69.29in, while there is only one Land monopod – a 5-section model which packs down to 41.5cm / 16.3in and weighs only 0.7kg / 1.5lbs. It can hold 6kg / 13.23lbs and can open to 141cm  / 55.51in.

Each of the models offers dual 1/4in and 3/8in threads and Manfrotto’s new Quick Power Lock leg clamps, as well as D-shaped tubing to help prevent rotation.

For more information visit the Manfrotto websiite.

Model Material Leg Sections  Price
 Prime Aluminum 3 £54.95
 Prime with legs Aluminum 3 £99.95
 Prime Carbon Fiber 4 £149.95
 Over Aluminum 4 £69.95
 Over Carbon Fiber 5 £169.95
 Land Aluminum 5 £69.95

US pricing is not yet available.

MANFROTTO PRESENTS: NEW XPRO MONOPODS

Manfrotto, world leader in the photography, imaging equipment and accessories industry, announces a new photo monopods range: the New XPRO MONOPODS. These products bring the premium style and performance of the 055 and 190 series tripods on single-legged camera supports and are superbly designed and crafted for professional and advanced photographers. The new XPRO MONOPODS range consists 6 of new models of the PRIME, OVER and LAND monopods.

COMPACTNESS, PORTABILITY & PAYLOAD
With 6 new models available – 4 in aluminium and 2 in Carbon Fibre, the new XPRO MONOPODS come in different sizes and with ¼” or 3/8” mounting threads.

The PRIME Monopods provide the highest payload in the range and are able to support up to 10kg (22lbs) of weight. Available in 3 models (2 aluminium and 1 carbon fibre), one features a unique retractable mechanism that allows the three feet to fully disappear inside the last tube – only coming out when needed.

The OVER Monopods have increased the maximum height by 16% more than previous model, widening the shooting angles’ versatility whilst still maintaining remarkable compactness. Available in aluminium and carbon fibre.

Extending the range further, the LAND Monopod is a 5 section monopod ideal for travelling. It folds down to 41.5 cm (32.6 in) for easy transportation and can be packed into Manfrotto backpacks or messenger bags. Available in aluminium only.

EASE OF USE & STABILITY
The New Quick Power Lock provides stability of use to all XPRO MONOPODS and a fast locking grip, which can be released with a single hand movement.

The D-shaped tubes greatly improve the anti-rotation resistance allowing for a solid locking grip by eliminating jerky movements.

Remove problems of vibration, speed and portability with the New XPRO MONOPODS: suitable for Sport photography, Bird watching, Travelling and Nature photography.

Prices from £54.95. For more information, please visit www.manfrotto.co.uk

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Cambo introduces Canon EOS lens plate with aperture control for Actus view camera system

12 Feb

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Cambo has devised a new Canon EF/EF-S lens plate for its Actus view camera system that allows users to control aperture settings on Canon EOS lenses. The Cambo Actus system is designed to deliver a view camera style of shooting to some mirrorless camera bodies, consisting of a lens plate and a body plate with bellows and a monorail in between.

As EOS lenses have no manual aperture control, a plain mounting plate will only allow the lenses to be used at their widest aperture setting. The new ACB-CA plate however has electronic contacts that allow it to communicate with the lens, and a finger wheel so the photographer can dial in required aperture settings. An OLED display shows aperture values as well as the focal length in use, even when a zoom is mounted. 

The ACB-CA adapter will provide tilt, shift, swing, rise and fall movements between the front and rear standards with an EOS lens and a mirrorless camera mounted, though other lens systems allow movements with Nikon and Canon DSLR bodies. The Actus-DB system allows digital backs to be used.

The new ACB-CA plate for Canon EOS lenses costs £950 / $ 1299, while the Actus body costs £1400 / $ 1900. For more information visit the Cambo website.

Press release: 

NEW Cambo Actus Canon Auto Lens Mount

Cambo has released the NEW ACB-CA adapter for Canon EF lenses for use on the ACTUS mini view camera. The adapter has built-in electronic controls for setting and operating the aperture of Canon EF lenses.

Normally when a Canon auto iris lens is removed from the camera body the lens aperture is wide open. The ACB-CA communicates with the lens and enables the user to adjust the aperture, giving you full control.

This adapter has an internal battery for continuous use and features an OLED display which shows the preset or set aperture together with the focal length of the lens. The communication is accurate, such that the display will also show the focal length of zoom lenses.

The adapter accepts lenses fitted with Canon EOS bayonet, in combination with the ACTUS view camera. The ACB-CA adapter is finished in black to match the ACTUS-B camera version.

This ACB-CA lens adapter is designed to work with mirrorless* camera bodies, such as the Sony A7 series, Fujifilm X series and Canon M series. When mounted on the Actus the adapter will tilt and swing within the lens image circle that is being used. The rear rise/fall and left/right shift will operate as normal, again within the lens’s image circle.

*Mirrorless camera bodies have the imaging sensor further forward enabling the lens to focus at infinity or closer.

Check via the Cambo Configurator the compatibility between cameras, lenses and adapter when using the Cambo Actus.

The ACB-CA adapter is available now from stock £790.00 excluding VAT and shipment. For further information contact CamboUK on 07863 116150 or cambouk@gmail.com .

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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