360Photography

Tag: Price

  • Fujifilm reveals X-A7 with improved AF, 4K/30p video and $700 price tag

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    Fujifilm has announced the X-A7, an entry-level mirrorless camera with some key improvements over its X-A5 predecessor. A new 24MP sensor offers 8.5 times more phase detection autofocus points than the previous model, and includes 4K/30p video recording – a welcome upgrade over the X-A5’s 4K/15p. Burst shooting remains at 6 fps.

    The X-A7 offers a fully articulated, ultra-high-res 3.5″ touch screen LCD, which is the primary means of interacting with camera controls, as the camera offers only a few physical controls on the back panel. The camera with kit lens attached weighs just 455g (1lb) altogether.

    Other new offerings include an update to Fujifilm’s auto scene recognition mode called Bright Mode, which utilizes HDR and other camera settings to create brighter, more vivid images with little user input.

    The Fujifilm X-A7 will be available October 24th kitted with a Fujinon XC 15-45mm F3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens for $ 700. Shaking things up a bit, Fujifilm will offer the camera body in dark silver, ‘camel’, mint green and silver color options. A ‘navy’ color will also be available in some regions.

    FUJIFILM INTRODUCES THE X-A7 MIRRORLESS CAMERA WITH LENS KIT – COMPACT SIZE, BIG FEATURES

    Valhalla, N.Y., September 12, 2019 – The Electronic Imaging Division of FUJIFILM North America Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of its X-A7 mirrorless digital camera, available in a kit that includes a popular XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens. The X-A7’s compact, lightweight form factor, outstanding image quality, and multitude of new and enhanced features position it as an ideal and timely entry into Fujifilm’s popular family of X Series mirrorless cameras.

    Weighing in at only 11.3 ounces (320 grams)*1 and boasting a new 24.2MP imaging sensor, the X-A7’s fast auto-focus, quick face detection, and enough power to create stills at 6 FPS, the X-A7 is the ideal camera for content creators of all skill levels and disciplines. Its intuitive LCD articulating touch screen enables users to capture the perfect image on-the-go. The vari-angle touchscreen allows the monitor to be rotated in various angles freely. Moreover, the newly-designed “Smart Menu” facilitates intuitive touchscreen operation, so that even beginners can produce high-quality images easily.

    Touch Your Way to the Perfect Image
    Create great images with X-A7’s intuitive 3.5 inch, 16:9 touchscreen LCD flip-out articulating screen. With a quick touch, tap or swipe, users can adjust the brightness, film simulation, bokeh and even skin softening effects.

    Incredible Image Quality for Any Situation
    The newly developed 24.2MP imaging sensor features sensor features 8.5 times more phase detection pixels across its surface than the previously available sensor*2. The X- A7 has been engineered with industry-leading copper wiring to reduce digital noise, to ensure images and video are processed quickly and to ensure the best possible image quality. The X-A7 offers enhanced data readout speed which enables a smooth frame rate of 30fps when recording 4K video, minimizing the rolling shutter effect which typically occurs when recording fast -moving subjects or when panning the camera quickly.

    Focus on the Moment; Let the Camera Focus on the Image
    Enhanced face-detection and autofocus algorithms make it easy to focus on capturing the perfect moment in all kinds of situations, including low-light and with moving subjects.

    Capture Life in Stunning 4K
    Record stunning video in 4K30P to get a beautiful cinematic look with beautiful bokeh and colors that only a FUJIFILM X Series camera can provide. Record, upload, and share on-the-go with unique features such as “Countdown Video” mode, which allows videos to be filmed at a pre-selected duration: 15, 30 or 60 seconds, for a quick upload to social media channels.

    Compact and lightweight design weighing only 11.3 ounces (320 grams)*
    Despite featuring a large 3.5” touchscreen LCD, the X-A7 weighs approximately 1 pound (455 grams) with the kit lens (XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ) attached. Perfect for the active photographer, the X-A7 can shoot approximately 440 pictures per charge*3 facilitating long-term use.

    Diverse shooting modes that help produce photography with a creative flair
    A new Bright Mode feature has been added to the Advanced SR Auto function, letting the camera configure ideal settings to produce HDR and other options that create bright, vivid images in a single, one-touch operation. The Light Trail mode, added to the Scene Position selection, can be used to capture light trails of car headlights, for example, while checking the effect on the LCD in real time.

    Enhanced connectivity for easy link to smartphones and tablets
    The use of FUJIFILM Camera Remote (a free app for smartphones and tablet devices) and the unique features of the X-A7 are designed to ensure dependable connectivity and stability in wireless communications. The X-A7 also supports wired communications with smartphones and tablet devices*4, useful when transferring large data, e.g. video, to such devices.

    Availability and Pricing
    The new FUJIFILM X-A7 with FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5- 5.6 OIS PZ lens kit will be available in most markets in camel, dark silver, mint green and silver. It will be available for purchase starting October 24, 2019 in the U.S. and Canada at a MSRP of USD $ 699.95 and CAD $ 899.00.

    *1 including the weight of a battery and a memory card, but excluding the Kit-included FUJINON lens
    *2 Compared to the image sensor used in the Fujifilm X-A5 mirrorless digital camera
    *3 When Economy mode is selected
    *4 With a Type C jack: USB to C cable or USB C to A (included in package) +A to C Adapter
    With a Micro B jack: USB C to A (Included in package) +A to Micro B Adapter
    With a Lightning jack: USB C to A (Included in package) +A to Lightning Adapter

    Fujifilm X-A7 specifications

    Price
    MSRP $ 699 (w/15-45mm lens)
    Body type
    Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
    Body material Composite
    Sensor
    Max resolution 6000 x 4000
    Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
    Effective pixels 24 megapixels
    Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.7 mm)
    Sensor type CMOS
    Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
    Color filter array Primary color filter
    Image
    ISO Auto, 100-12800 (expands to 25600)
    Boosted ISO (minimum) 25600
    White balance presets 7
    Custom white balance Yes
    Image stabilization No
    Uncompressed format RAW
    JPEG quality levels Fine, normal
    File format
    • JPEG (Exif 2.3)
    • Raw (Fujifilm RAF format)
    Optics & Focus
    Autofocus
    • Contrast Detect (sensor)
    • Phase Detect
    • Multi-area
    • Center
    • Selective single-point
    • Tracking
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • Touch
    • Face Detection
    • Live View
    Autofocus assist lamp Yes
    Manual focus Yes
    Number of focus points 425
    Lens mount Fujifilm X
    Focal length multiplier 1.5×
    Screen / viewfinder
    Articulated LCD Fully articulated
    Screen size 3.5″
    Screen dots 2,760,000
    Touch screen Yes
    Screen type TFT LCD
    Live view Yes
    Viewfinder type None
    Photography features
    Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
    Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
    Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/32000 sec
    Exposure modes
    • Program
    • Shutter priority
    • Aperture priority
    • Manual
    Scene modes
    • Portrait
    • Night (tripod)
    • Fireworks
    • Sunset
    • Snow
    • Beach
    • Underwater
    • Party
    • Flower
    • Text
    • Multiple exposure
    • Light trail
    Built-in flash Yes
    Flash range 4.00 m (at ISO 100)
    External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
    Flash modes Auto, forced, slow synchro, 2nd curtain, commander, suppressed)
    Flash X sync speed 1/180 sec
    Drive modes
    • Single
    • Continuous
    • AE bracketing
    • ISO bracketing
    • Film Simulation bracketing
    • WB bracketing
    • Dynamic range bracketing
    • HDR
    • Movie
    Continuous drive 6.0 fps
    Self-timer Yes
    Metering modes
    • Multi
    • Center-weighted
    • Spot
    Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV steps)
    AE Bracketing ±5 (3, 5, 7 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps)
    WB Bracketing Yes
    Videography features
    Format MPEG-4, H.264
    Modes
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
    Microphone Stereo
    Speaker Mono
    Storage
    Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I supported)
    Connectivity
    USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
    USB charging Yes
    HDMI Yes (mini HDMI)
    Microphone port Yes
    Headphone port No
    Wireless Built-In
    Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth 4.2
    Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
    Physical
    Environmentally sealed No
    Battery Battery Pack
    Battery description NP-W126S lithium-ion battery & charger
    Battery Life (CIPA) 440
    Weight (inc. batteries) 320 g (0.71 lb / 11.29 oz)
    Dimensions 119 x 38 x 41 mm (4.69 x 1.5 x 1.61″)
    Other features
    Orientation sensor Yes
    Timelapse recording Yes
    GPS None

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Motorola One Action comes with ultra-wide action cam and affordable price tag

    Ultra-wide cameras are a wide-spread feature among the current crop of Android phones but Motorola’s new One Action is taking a slightly different approach to most of its competitors. The brand new device’s ultra-wide camera has been designed to work predominantly as a GoPro-style action camera.

    The 16MP camera has a field-of-view of 117 degrees (approximately 13mm equivalent focal length) and is installed vertically which means you can also hold the phone vertically while recording horizontal video for better control. Footage is recorded at 1080p resolution and electronic image stabilization should smooth out even bumpy sports action,

    The main camera features a 12MP sensor with 1.25µm pixel size and F1.8 aperture. A PDAF system is used for focusing and in video mode 4K clips can be recorded at 30 frames per second. The triple-camera setup is completed by a 5MP depth camera for the simulated bokeh effect.

    Other specs fall firmly into the mid-range category. The Android OS is powered by a Samsung Exynos 9609 processor and 4GB of RAM. 128GB of storage are quite generous for a device in this class and the battery offers a 3,500 mAh capacity. Images and videos can be viewed on a 6.3-inch FHD+ 21:9 display with a hole-punch design for the front camera.

    The Motorola One Action will be available starting today in Brazil, Mexico, and some countries in the Euro zone for €259 ($ 287). Motorola says the device will be available in more regions across Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific, and will arrive in the US and Canada in October as an unlocked version.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Hasselblad launches X1D II 50C with improved handling, faster responses and lower price

    Hasselblad has released a new version of its X1D medium format digital camera that offers a range of upgraded features and a speedier operating system. With improvements based around user feedback, the X1D II 50C offers a larger rear screen, a higher resolution EVF, faster startup and reduced lag, as well as a collection of menu and interface changes. Hasselblad says the new camera offers a ‘quicker and more intuitive medium format experience’. Critically though, the new version will cost a good deal less than the original X1D, presumably to bring it closer to the price of the Fujifilm GFX 50R.

    Using the same body and pixel-count as the original X1D 50C, the Mark II is clearly an upgrade rather than a completely new camera, a fact reflected in the naming convention. A new processor appears to have been used that speeds up the operating system so that the time it takes the camera to start up is cut by 46%, shutter lag is cut and the blackout time between frames is reduced.

    Users will get an extra 0.4 fps on the maximum drive mode taking the frame rate to 2.7 fps, and the time it takes to preview and scroll through recorded images has been decreased. The new processor allows a 62% better refresh rate in the viewfinder too – it’s now 60 fps – and focus accuracy has been improved.

    Hasselblad claims the 3.6″ rear screen is the largest available on a digital medium format camera, and has increased the resolution to 1024×768 pixels with the total number of dots standing at 2.36M compared to the 920,000 screen used on the original model. Likewise, the EVF resolution has jumped from 2.36M dots to 3.69M (1024×768 vs 1280×960), and the new 0.87x magnification gives users a bigger view.

    Hasselblad says the camera’s menu system has been tweaked to make it more logical and to deliver easier access to the functions, while new icons and clearer language make finding what you are looking for more straightforward. The menu can now be displayed and operated in the viewfinder, while a new system for touch AF has been incorporated and the control screen will now display more information, including self-timer and a Balance Scale to indicate exposure adjustments.

    JPEG users will be pleased to hear that the X1D ll 50C allows not only full sized JPEG images but that JPEGs can be recorded on their own with no Raw accompaniment. And, the company says the quality of its JPEG files has improved – though we don’t get to know how exactly.

    The camera’s 24.7Wh battery can be charged either in an external charging block or in-camera via the USB socket. This also allows the battery to be charged via a powerbank when on the location. Another new feature is that a GPS module is now built into the body instead of being supplied as a hot shoe accessory. This saves the $ 175 that it costs for the hotshoe model used with the original body if one wasn’t supplied with your camera, while freeing up the hot shoe for a flash unit.

    The Hasselblad X1D II 50C will be available in July 2019 and will cost $ 5750 (before tax) or €6000/£5400 (inc VAT). For more information see the Hasselblad website.

    Phocus Mobile 2 allows Raw download and cabled connection

    Hasselblad has also updated its Phocus Mobile iOS app so that now users can not only control the camera and rate images, but additionally download Raw and JPEG files to their iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) devices. The app can connect to the X1D II 50C either via Wi-Fi as before or via the camera’s USB-C port, and will now support tethered shooting.
    Phocus Mobile 2 is free, and will be available on Apple’s App Store.

    Press release

    X1D II 50C – AN EVOLVED MEDIUM FORMAT PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

    In the pursuit to continue the journey of taking medium format outside of the studio, Hasselblad is pleased to announce the next installment of the X System – the X1D II 50C Mirrorless Medium Format Digital Camera. Dedicated to optimising the X System for a wider audience of creatives, Hasselblad has listened to user feedback and improved upon the first generation with enhanced electronics for a quicker and more intuitive medium format experience.

    Continuing in the legacy of being the most portable and lightweight digital medium format camera, the X1D II 50C lets you take the power of medium format in a footprint smaller than most full frame DSLRs in a beautifully designed, compact package. Its large, high resolution 50-megapixel CMOS sensor (43.8 x 32.9 mm) is 1.7 times larger than 35mm full format sensors, packing in huge pixels (5.3 x 5.3 nm) for capturing images with superb tonality. With outstanding colour depth and an impressive dynamic range of 14 stops, which allows for capturing immense details in both shadows and highlights, the photographer is left with plenty of room for adjustment in post-processing. With Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS) technology integrated into the camera’s system, exceptional, true-to-life tones are delivered that match what the human eye sees.

    Building upon the award-winning first generation, the X1D II 50C blends form and function with minimalistic, Scandinavian design aesthetics and a smooth handling experience with its ergonomic grip. The new X1D II 50C continues to provide creatives with incredible Hasselblad image quality, with 16-bit RAW images and now full resolution JPEGs, in a compact, lightweight design.

    Developing upon the first generation of the X System, the X1D II 50C’s upgraded electronic platform includes a higher resolution 3.6-inch 2.36-million-dot touch display, which is physically the largest LCD display currently available on a digital medium format camera.

    Additionally, the X1D II 50C features a higher resolution enhanced OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3.69-million dots and a high magnification of 0.87x, letting you see the bigger picture. The much higher resolution of the rear display screen (1024×768) gives a more vivid, true to life image viewing experience.

    The X1D II 50C’s live view features a faster refresh rate, reduced shutter lag and black out time between frames, an improved continuous capture rate, and a startup time cut almost in half from the first generation. Building upon the highly-intuitive user interface of the previous model, further refinements have been made to the X1D II 50C to improve the camera’s handling experience, including the ability to access the menu system when looking in the EVF, giving greater usability in the sunniest conditions.

    Enabling an even more portable medium format workflow, Hasselblad’s post production solutions now include the new Phocus Mobile 2. Connected via USB-C and Wi-Fi, photographers can transfer RAW and full quality JPEG files directly from the X1D II 50C and edit RAW images on their iPad Pro or iPad Air (2019) while out on the field.

    PHOCUS MOBILE 2 TAKES IMAGE PROCESSING WORKFLOW TO A NEW PORTABLE LEVEL

    Expanding the possibilities of the Hasselblad workflow, Phocus Mobile 2 takes the image editing process to a new, portable level. Compatible with the X1D II 50C via either USB-C or Wi-Fi, this application is currently supported on iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) models, enabling the traveling photographer to have a quicker, more mobile workflow. With Phocus Mobile 2, users can import, edit and rate RAW images and import and rate full quality JPEG images directly on their portable device. In addition, Phocus Mobile 2 supports full quality image export, tethered shooting and direct camera control.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Hasselblad launches X1D ll 50C with improved handling, faster responses and lower price

    Hasselblad has released a new version of its X1D medium format digital camera that offers a range of upgraded features and a speedier operating system. With improvements based around user feedback, the X1D ll 50C offers a larger rear screen, a higher resolution EVF, faster startup and reduced lag, as well as a collection of menu and interface changes. Hasselblad says the new camera offers a ‘quicker and more intuitive medium format experience’. Critically though, the new version will cost a good deal less than the original X1D, presumably to bring it closer to the price of the Fujifilm GFX 50R.

    Using the same body and pixel-count as the original X1D 50C, the X1D ll 50C is clearly an upgrade rather than a completely new camera, a fact reflected in the naming convention. A new processor appears to have been used that speeds up the operating system so that the time it takes the camera to start up is cut by 46%, shutter lag is cut and the blackout time between frames is reduced.

    Users will get an extra 0.4 fps on the maximum drive mode taking the frame rate to 2.7 fps, and the time it takes to preview and scroll through recorded images has been decreased. The new processor allows a 62% better refresh rate in the viewfinder too – it’s now 60 fps – and focus accuracy has been improved.

    Hasselblad claims the 3.6″ rear screen is the largest available on a digital medium format camera, and has increased the resolution to 1024×768 dots-per-inch with the total number of dots standing at 2.36 million compared to the 920,000 screen used on the original model. Likewise, the EVF resolution has jumped from 2.36 million dots to 3.69 million (1024×768 vs 1280×960), and the new 0.87x magnification gives users a bigger view.

    Hasselblad says the camera’s menu system has been tweaked to make it more logical and to deliver easier access to the functions, while new icons and clearer language make finding what you are looking for more straightforward. The menu can now be displayed and operated in the viewfinder, while a new system for touch AF has been incorporated and the control screen will now display more information, including self-timer and a Balance Scale to indicate exposure adjustments.

    JPEG users will be pleased to hear that the X1D ll 50C allows not only full sized JPEG images but that JPEGs can be recorded on their own with no Raw accompaniment. And, the company says the quality of its JPEG files has improved – though we don’t get to know how exactly.

    The camera’s 3400 mAh battery can be charged either in an external charging block or in-camera via the USB socket. This also allows the battery to be charged via a powerbank when on the location. Another new feature is that a GPS module is now built into the body instead of being supplied as a hot shoe accessory. This saves the $ 175 that it costs for the hotshoe model used with the original body if one wasn’t supplied with your camera, while freeing up the hot shoe for a flash unit.

    The Hasselblad X1D ll 50C will be available in July 2019 and will cost $ 5750/€5000/£4500. For more information see the Hasselblad website.

    Phocus Mobile 2 allows Raw download and cabled connection

    Hasselblad has also updated its Phocus Mobile iOS app so that now users can not only control the camera and rate images, but additionally download Raw and JPEG files to their iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) devices. The app can connect to the X1D ll 50C either via Wi-Fi as before or via the camera’s USB-C port, and will now support tethered shooting.
    Phocus Mobile 2 is free, and will be available on Apple’s App Store.

    Press release

    X1D II 50C – AN EVOLVED MEDIUM FORMAT PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

    In the pursuit to continue the journey of taking medium format outside of the studio, Hasselblad is pleased to announce the next installment of the X System – the X1D II 50C Mirrorless Medium Format Digital Camera. Dedicated to optimising the X System for a wider audience of creatives, Hasselblad has listened to user feedback and improved upon the first generation with enhanced electronics for a quicker and more intuitive medium format experience.

    Continuing in the legacy of being the most portable and lightweight digital medium format camera, the X1D II 50C lets you take the power of medium format in a footprint smaller than most full frame DSLRs in a beautifully designed, compact package. Its large, high resolution 50-megapixel CMOS sensor (43.8 x 32.9 mm) is 1.7 times larger than 35mm full format sensors, packing in huge pixels (5.3 x 5.3 nm) for capturing images with superb tonality. With outstanding colour depth and an impressive dynamic range of 14 stops, which allows for capturing immense details in both shadows and highlights, the photographer is left with plenty of room for adjustment in post-processing. With Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS) technology integrated into the camera’s system, exceptional, true-to-life tones are delivered that match what the human eye sees.

    Building upon the award-winning first generation, the X1D II 50C blends form and function with minimalistic, Scandinavian design aesthetics and a smooth handling experience with its ergonomic grip. The new X1D II 50C continues to provide creatives with incredible Hasselblad image quality, with 16-bit RAW images and now full resolution JPEGs, in a compact, lightweight design.

    Developing upon the first generation of the X System, the X1D II 50C’s upgraded electronic platform includes a higher resolution 3.6-inch 2.36-million-dot touch display, which is physically the largest LCD display currently available on a digital medium format camera.

    Additionally, the X1D II 50C features a higher resolution enhanced OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3.69-million dots and a high magnification of 0.87x, letting you see the bigger picture. The much higher resolution of the rear display screen (1024×768) gives a more vivid, true to life image viewing experience.

    The X1D II 50C’s live view features a faster refresh rate, reduced shutter lag and black out time between frames, an improved continuous capture rate, and a startup time cut almost in half from the first generation. Building upon the highly-intuitive user interface of the previous model, further refinements have been made to the X1D II 50C to improve the camera’s handling experience, including the ability to access the menu system when looking in the EVF, giving greater usability in the sunniest conditions.

    Enabling an even more portable medium format workflow, Hasselblad’s post production solutions now include the new Phocus Mobile 2. Connected via USB-C and Wi-Fi, photographers can transfer RAW and full quality JPEG files directly from the X1D II 50C and edit RAW images on their iPad Pro or iPad Air (2019) while out on the field.

    PHOCUS MOBILE 2 TAKES IMAGE PROCESSING WORKFLOW TO A NEW PORTABLE LEVEL

    Expanding the possibilities of the Hasselblad workflow, Phocus Mobile 2 takes the image editing process to a new, portable level. Compatible with the X1D II 50C via either USB-C or Wi-Fi, this application is currently supported on iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) models, enabling the traveling photographer to have a quicker, more mobile workflow. With Phocus Mobile 2, users can import, edit and rate RAW images and import and rate full quality JPEG images directly on their portable device. In addition, Phocus Mobile 2 supports full quality image export, tethered shooting and direct camera control.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Adobe Price Hike Just a ‘Test’; Should Photographers Be Worried?

    The post Adobe Price Hike Just a ‘Test’; Should Photographers Be Worried? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

    Adobe made waves earlier this month when it doubled the price of its Creative Cloud Photography plan–from $ 9.99/month to $ 19.99/month.

    Soon after, the price reverted back to the original. And Adobe has assured its customers that it was just testing a new price.

    But this begs the question:

    Should photographers be concerned?

    It’s not like we haven’t seen this before. Last year, Adobe announced price increases for a number of its CC products, though the Photography plan was spared. So the Photography plan – which includes Photoshop, Lightroom, and Lightroom Classic – remained an affordable deal for professional photographers.

    But if Adobe is testing out a price increase, then it’s no doubt a real possibility for the future.

    If that’s the case, would Lightroom and Photoshop be worth it?

    The increased price did come with one benefit: Creative Cloud storage, which currently sits at 20GB, shot up to 1TB.
    (It’s now back to 20GB.)

    But how many photographers have been waiting for additional storage? For many photographers, the increased CC storage is worth little.

    Maybe it’s time to start looking into other options.

    In the past few years, a number of strong Photoshop and Lightroom contenders have been released–and at significantly lower price points.

    For instance, Affinity Photo retails at a one-time payment of $ 49.99. It offers many of the same functions as Photoshop, including basic editing tools, layers, and some more sophisticated options, such as lens distortion corrections.

    And ON1 Photo RAW is a neat alternative to Lightroom. For a single payment of $ 79.99, you get a combination of advanced photo editing and photo organization software. Plus, it comes with a set of excellent presets.

    Photographers should also check out Luminar 3. This is a full-featured program, offering an excellent combination of basic editing options, local adjustments, and photo organization. All for a one-time price of $ 70.

    A couple more options:

    1. ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate (for $ 8.90/month or a one-time fee of $ 84.95)
    2. Exposure X4 (for a one-time fee of $ 119)

    Here’s the bottom line:

    With Adobe considering a Lightroom/Photoshop price hike, other options (which you can purchase for a one-time fee) have suddenly become far more enticing.

    For those of you who aren’t willing to fork out the additional US$ 10 per month, take a look at these other options.

    Just in case.

    The post Adobe Price Hike Just a ‘Test’; Should Photographers Be Worried? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


    Digital Photography School

  • Parrot Anafi Thermal drone brings FLIR camera, lighter weight and higher price

    Drone company Parrot has announced Anafi Thermal, an updated version of the Anafi folding quadcopter it launched last year. The new Parrot Anafi Thermal features a 4K HDR camera with a 21MP Sony sensor alongside a FLIR Lepton thermal sensor, enabling operators to capture both RGB and thermal images. The drone can be used with the Pix4DModel app to generate 3D images from the thermal data.

    The newly added FLIR camera features a 160 x 120 resolution and the ability to detect a temperature range from 14F / -10C to 752F / 400C. The thermal sensor is embedded with the 4K RGB camera on a three-axis stabilized gimbal. Drone operators can use the thermal camera and FreeFlight 6 app to detect heat loss and isolate subjects, according to Parrot, making the drone useful for industrial use and rescue missions.

    The aforementioned FreeFlight 6 app can be used to merge both RGB and thermal images; ‘visual representations’ of temperature contrasts and thermal leaks are superimposed on the final image. The cameras also offer 3x digital zoom.

    The Anafi Thermal drone weighs 315g / 11.1oz, which is 10 grams lighter than the 2018 model. The quadcopter can handle wind speeds up to 50km/h / 31mph and it has a top flight speed of 55km/h / 34mph. Operators can utilize three batteries that offer a cumulative flight time of 78 minutes (26 minutes per battery); the power cells support recharging from any source using USB-C.

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    The companion Parrot Skycontroller 3 remote control operates over WiFi with a range of 2km / 1.2mi. Built-in sensors enable the drone to operate on autopilot. Operators can set flight parameters that include altitude, geofences, and custom FlightPlan routes.

    The Parrot Anafi Thermal drone will be available starting in May. According to The Verge, this model will have a $ 1,900 price tag, which is substantially higher than the non-thermal model’s $ 700 cost.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Dubble Film teams with film producer Revelog, renames products, tweaks price, and more

    Film company Dubble Film has ended its partnership with KONO!, the German pre-exposed film producer, and instead teamed up with Revelog, the company has announced. Under the new partnership, Dubble Film has changed some of its product names, increased the number of exposures per film roll, lowered the cost per photo, and more.

    Going forward, Dubble Film will sell its Moonstruck film under the new name Apollo, Monsoon under the name Pacific and Sunstroke under the name Solar. The company’s Jelly and Bubblegum film names remain unchanged, however. The new product names decrease confusion between the ‘Monsoon’ and ‘Moonstruck’ options and eliminate the negative association that comes with ‘Sunstroke.’

    Below are a few sample images from Dubble Film’s various film stocks:

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    Additionally, each film roll now features 36 exposures instead of 24, and though prices have increased, the overall cost-per-photo is lower than before. The new 36-exposure rolls are priced at £12 / $ 15.35 per roll compared to the previous £10.50 / $ 13.87, which works out to a per-photo price of £0.33 / $ 0.43 versus the previous approx. £0.42 / $ 0.55 cost.

    According to Dubble Film founder Adam Scott, via Kosmo Foto, the new film products have better tint under the Revelog partnership. The previous Dubble Film from KONO! inventory is currently being sold at a discounted £8 / $ 10.53 rate by Analogue Wonderland.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • No Joke: Fujifilm paper and film products to get massive price increase on April 1st

    Fujifilm plans to increase its prices substantially on a day when customers are least likely to believe it: April Fool’s Day. The price increase will affect the company’s film and paper products globally starting on April 1, Fujifilm announced on Monday. Though price increases will vary based on market, photographers can expect a minimum 30% increase in film cost and ‘double-digit percentage’ photographic paper price increases.

    In the company’s announcement, Fujifilm President Kenji Sukeno explained:

    Over the past several years, Fujifilm has faced the rising cost of raw materials and logistics. In the past Fujifilm has absorbed some of the costs by undertaking intensive structural reforms and communalization of production facilities, but as a responsible manufacturing company and to provide the high-quality products our customers expect, the company will institute a price increase.

    The price increase will impact Fujifilm’s color negative, color reversal, quick snap, and control strips film products, as well as all of its photographic paper products.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Sigma cine 28mm T.1.5 lens gets a price and shipping date

    Sigma has announced its new 28mm T1.5 cine lens for full frame sensor cameras will be available starting in the middle of March. The lens will cost $ 3499 but will also be offered with luminous markings, to make it easier to use in low light, for $ 4,499.

    The lens is latest of a set of 10 full-frame fixed-focal-length lenses, eight of which have a T1.5 maximum aperture. The lenses have 180° focus ring rotation, and are tested using the company’s 46-million-pixel Foveon sensor.

    As with the rest of Sigma’s cine series, the 28mm T1.5 FF will be available in PL, EF and E mounts. The company has also announced a new carry case for a set of five lenses that will cost $ 750. It is designed to hold the 14mm, 28mm, 40mm, 105mm and 135mm lenses, and will be available at the same time as this 28mm lens.

    For more information see the Sigma website.

    Press release:

    Sigma Ships Its 28mm T1.5 Full-Frame Cine Lens

    Sigma Corporation of America, a leading still photo and cinema lens, camera, flash and accessory manufacturer, today announced one of its newest additions to the cine prime lens lineup, Sigma 28mm T1.5 FF, will be available in mid March 2019 for $ 3,499.00 for the regular version and $ 4,499.00 for the fully luminous (FL) version.

    Sigma Cine 28mm T1.5 FF is a fast and sharp T1.5 cine lens compatible with full-frame camera sensors and optimized for ultra-high-resolution 6K-8K productions. Featuring a 180-degree focus rotation, this lens is available in EF, E and PL mounts with lens support foot and cap included.

    One of the key focal lengths to achieve a true cinematic look, the wide-angle perspective of a 28mm lens has long become an industry standard in shooting motion pictures. DPs and filmmakers of all genres will now have the opportunity to add this gem to their Sigma Cine lens collection to further enable their creative vision and enhance their workflow.
    In addition, Sigma is now offering a five-piece case that can hold the 14mm, 28mm, 40mm, 105mm and 135mm cine lenses to safely transport your gear. The new case is also available for purchase in mid March for $ 750.00.

    Prominent Characteristics of Sigma Cine Lenses

    • Individual inspection of every single lens with A1 proprietary Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) measuring system using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of their quality control inspections.
    • Computer-based ray tracing has been used from the design stage onward to minimize flare and ghosting and enhance contrast in backlit conditions. Ghosting has also been checked at every prototype stage, with its causes identified, assessed and eliminated.
    • Color balance standardized across the line to make color correction a breeze.
    • Dust-proof and splash-proof construction, with each ring and mount sealed to prevent water and dust from entering.
    • The body is made 100% of metal to stand up to tough professional use over the long term.
    • Luminous paint for enhanced visibility
    • Laser engraving for enhanced durability
    • Mount Conversion Service allows users to convert their lenses to and from EF and E-mounts (charges apply). If the camera system changes, it is possible to simply convert the mount system to continue using the high-performance Sigma lenses.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Redmi 7 smartphone offers Sony 48MP Quad-Bayer sensor at budget price point

    We’ve seen Sony’s IMX586 1/2-inch 48MP sensor appear in several higher-end devices in recent months but the Redmi 7 is now the first budget device to offer the chip. The sensor isn’t really meant for outputting medium-format image resolution image files. Instead a quad-Bayer filter array allows for high-quality 12MP images with low noise levels and real-time HDR processing. The main chip is accompanied by a 5MP depth sensor for bokeh and similar effects.

    Redmi, which used to be the budget line within the Xiaomi smartphone portfolio, has now been promoted to a proper sub-brand, similar to what Honor is to Xiaomi competitor Huawei. The 7 is the first device launched under this new sub-brand and does not only offer impressively looking main camera specs for the money.

    You also get a 13 MP front camera, 6.3-inch Full-HD+ LCD display, Snapdragon 660 chipset a massive 4,000 mAh battery with quick charge support and a microSD slot.

    In terms of RAM and storage you can choose between 3/32 GB, 4/64 GB, and 6/64 GB combinations. and there is a microSD slot as well.

    The cheapest option will set you back $ 150 (CNY999) and even the largest memory version is only $ 210 (CNY1,399). Pre-orders have already started in China and shipments are scheduled for January 15. We’d expect the Redmi 7 to make the jump into the US and other regions in the nearer future. We’ll have to wait for the first samples but it looks like the Redmi 7 should be high up the list of those who want good smartphone image quality at budget pricing in 2019.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)