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Posts Tagged ‘releases’

Canon releases $100 firmware update for professional stop-motion photography

05 May

Canon has introduced a new firmware option for EOS R owners interested in high-end stop motion photography. The firmware, which has to be installed at a Canon service center, adds a number of features to make shooting stop motion easier, particularly for those using the Dragonframe animation application. A new version of the EOS R has also been released that has the firmware already installed.

This is a comparison of the new Live View resolution of 1920×1280 (full screen) versus the original size of 960×640 (small inset). The large preview image makes it easier for the animators to have confidence in the shot and can improve the overall quality of the scene.

The main advantage of the new firmware for animators is the increased resolution of the live preview when the camera is tethered via USB. Without the new firmware, the camera outputs an image of 960×640 pixels, but this is increased to 1920×1280 pixels with the firmware installed. This resolution is higher than all other still cameras compatible with Dragonframe, and the extra detail makes checking the image details and focusing much easier. Output live view resolution from the Nikon Z7 and the Sony A7R IV is 1024×680 pixels, for example, while that from the Olympus OM-D E-M lll is 1280×960 pixels.

Seeing Focus Peaking on the full screen allows the animator to precisely capture fine detail and adjust for desired depth of field.

The downside of the update is that HDMI output is disabled, as are display performance options. Manual focus peaking becomes an option over USB but it will no longer work in the viewfinder or on the camera’s rear screen in a number of situations:

  • When an EF-S lens is used
  • When [Multiple exposure] is set
  • When [Cropping/aspect ratio] is set to an option other than [FULL]
  • When the shooting screen is magnified
  • When you keep holding down the shutter button after shooting

The new firmware costs $ 100 plus shipping to have installed on an existing EOS R camera, and the new version of the camera with the firmware pre-installed costs $ 1899 – about $ 100 more than the standard version.

For more information on the firmware see the Canon website, and for more on the animation software see the Dragonframe website.

Press release

Stop Motion Animation Firmware

Supercharge Your Stop Motion Animation

Whether pre-installed on a new EOS R or manually installed on an existing EOS R the new Stop Motion Animation upgrade for EOS R cameras increases your Live View resolution to 1920×1280 from Canon’s normal of 960×640 when connected to Dragonframe stop motion animation software. This makes it easier for animators to confirm focus and movement within every frame.

Larger Live View

Live view is critical to animators creating stop motion animation films. Animators use the remote live view of the camera to review critical details and make decisions within the Dragonframe software. Canon’s Stop Motion Animation firmware increases the Live View to 1920×1280 – helping animators see subtle movement for refined animation.

USB Manual Focus Peaking

Canon has added Manual Focus Peaking over USB to interface with Dragonframe software.

HDMI Output

Important information about EOS R Stop Motion Animation Firmware:
* HDMI output is not available on the EOS R with this firmware installed
* [Disp. performance] cannot be set
* MF peaking will not show up even if [MF peaking settings] is set to [On] under the following conditions:

  • When an EF-S lens is used
  • When [Multiple exposure] is set
  • When [Cropping/aspect ratio] is set to an option other than [FULL]
  • When the shooting screen is magnified
  • When you keep holding down the shutter button after shooting

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon releases firmware update for its D780 DSLR to fix SD memory card errors

24 Apr

Nikon has released a very minor firmware update for its D780 camera system.

Firmware version 1.01 (up from 1.00) addresses just a single issue, wherein some SD memory cards wouldn’t work inside the camera. Nikon doesn’t specify what memory cards caused problems, but a two-month-old DPReview forum post, embedded below, from ‘JS Photo’ noted his Lexar 2000x SD cards (a 128GB and a 64GB card) were throwing errors during a wedding shoot.

We have contacted Nikon to see if any further clarification is available on what cards were causing the problems and will update this article accordingly if we receive an appropriate response.

In the meantime, you can head on over to Nikon’s D780 support page to download firmware version 1.01 for macOS and Windows computers.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm releases very minor firmware updates for six of its XF lenses

24 Apr

Fujifilm has released minor firmware updates for a number of its XF lenses, including five zooms and a single prime.

The firmware version numbers vary from lens to lens, but across the board, all five updates simply list ‘Fix of minor bugs’ as the only change in these updates. Below is a list of the lenses and a link to their respective firmware updates:

  • Fujifilm XF 200mm F2 R LM OIS WR — Firmware version 1.01 (up from 1.00)
  • Fujifilm XF 8–16mm F2.8 R LM WR — Firmware version 1.01 (up from 1.00)
  • Fujifilm XF 16–80mm F4 R OIS WR — Firmware version 1.04 (up from 1.03
  • Fujifilm 50–140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR — Firmware version 1.31 (up from 1.30)
  • Fujifilm 55–200mm F3.5–4.8 R LM OIS — Firmware version 1.21 (up from 1.20)
  • Fujifilm 100–400mm F4.5–5.6 R LM OIS — Firmware version 1.21 (up from 1.20)

You can keep up with the latest firmware updates via Fujifilm’s comprehensive list of the latest updates for its lenses.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Lensbaby releases the ‘Velvet 28,’ a wide-angle prime with ‘dreamy’ bokeh

23 Apr

Lensbaby has made available its latest lens, the Velvet 28. As the name suggests, it’s a 28mm F2.5 lens is a wide-angle lens available for a slew of full-frame and APS-C camera systems.

Like other focal lengths in its ‘Velvet’ lineup, the 28mm lens adds a ‘velvety glow’ to images when shot wide open. As the lens is stopped down, the effect becomes less pronounced. The lens is constructed of eight elements in seven groups, features a 12-blade aperture diaphragm, uses a 67mm front filter thread and also can also capture 1:2 ratio macro photos, with a minimum focusing distance of 14cm (5.5”).

Below is a sample gallery of images, provided by Lensbaby:

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The lens is offered in Canon EF, Canon RF, Fujifilm X, Micro Four Thirds, Nikon F, Nikon Z and Sony E mounts. While the dimensions and weight does differ slightly from mount to mount, it weighs roughly 600g (1.35lbs) and measures in at approximately 72mm (2.85”) by 89mm (3.5”). The Lensbaby Velvet 28mm F2.5 is currently available to purchase for $ 550 on Lensbaby’s online store, as well as Adorama and B&H.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Venus Optics releases Canon RF, Nikon Z mount version of its Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X APO Macro lens

22 Apr

Venus Optics has announced its Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens is now available for Canon RF and Nikon Z camera systems, joining versions for Canon EF, Nikon F and Sony FE mounts.

It’s been exactly two years since the lens was originally announced and in that time the Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO has earned numerous accolades and positive reviews for being an impressive-yet-affordable macro lens that punches well above its price point.

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Aside from the additional mount options, the new models remain unchanged from their previously-announced counterparts. They’re constructed of twelve elements in ten groups, feature an F2.8 through F22 aperture range, offer 2x magnification and have 13-blade aperture diaphragms (same as the Sony FE version).

A size comparison from Venus Optics showing the Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO lens (far-right) compared to similar macro lenses from Nikon, Canon and Sony.

The new models come in at the same size as the Sony FE model, weighing 650g (23oz) and measuring in at 72mm (2.8in) in diameter and 155mm (6.1in) long. Below is a gallery of sample images we captured with the original Canon EF version of the Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X APO Macro lens adapted to an EOS R:

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The Canon RF and Nikon Z mount models are also priced the same, retailing for $ 449 on Laowa’s website and authorized retailers. An optional tripod collar is available as an accessory for $ 30.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony releases 2.00 firmware update for its a9 II mirrorless camera

10 Apr

Sony has released its latest firmware update for the a9II, bringing with it a collection of new and improved features.

Starting with what’s new, firmware version 2.00 for the Sony a9 II adds a new ‘Hi Frequency Flicker’ function that helps to ‘reduce the impact of flickering of artificial light sources (e.g. digital signage, electronic signboards, LED lights, etc.), by more finely adjusting the shutter speed.’ Also added is a new function that will close the shutter when you turn off the camera to minimize the chance of dirt or dust getting on the image sensor.

Sony has also added the ability to assign the Face/Eye Priority autofocus setting to a custom key that will activate and deactivate the setting when pressed. Those who already have Face/Eye Priority set to a custom key will be able to deactivate it with that same button after the 2.00 update is complete.

Other improvements include updates to the Remote Camera Tool function, improved FTP transfers, the option to display the camera’s MAC address as a QR code and other improvements that should improve the overall stability of the camera.

Sony also notes that the Image Edge Remote, Imaging Edge Mobile and Remote Camera Tool will no longer be supported after tomorrow, April 9, but doesn’t elaborate on what exactly that means going forward. We have contacted Sony and will clarify these details when we receive a response.

You can download firmware version 2.00 for macOS and Windows on Sony’s a9 II support page.

Changelog:

Benefits and Improvements from the [2.00] update

  • Adds the Hi Frequency flicker function, which allows you to reduce the impact of flickering of artificial light sources (e.g. digital signage, electronic signboards, LED lights, etc.), by more finely adjusting the shutter speed
    NOTE: The Imaging Edge Remote, Imaging Edge Mobile, and Remote Camera Tool software will not be supported after April 9th, 2020
  • Improves the Face/Eye Priority in the AF function:
    • When set to a custom key, the Face/Eye Priority in the AF function can be activated or deactivated each time the custom key is pressed
    • If Face/Eye Priorityis already set to custom key, this improvement will be available after the camera is updated
  • Improves the Remote Camera Tool function by adding support for displaying Focus Frame for almost all scenes
    NOTE: Version 2.00 (or later) of the Remote Camera Tool is required. Please update to the latest version.
  • Improves the FTP transfer function
  • Allows the camera’s MAC address to be displayed as a QR code
  • Adds a function to close the shutter when you turn off the camera to prevent dust or debris from adhering to the image sensor when you change lenses
  • Allows you to save or load the customized camera settings to My MENU
  • Improves the overall stability of the camera

For updated function usage and additional information, please refer to the ILCE-9M2 Help Guide. Additionally, a revision has been made to the instruction manual according to this update. The latest version of the instruction manual can be downloaded from referenced website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Panasonic releases minor 1.5 firmware update for its Lumix S1, S1R mirrorless cameras

09 Apr

Panasonic has released a minor firmware update for its Lumix DC-S1 and DC-S1R mirrorless camera systems.

Firmware version 1.5 adds support for ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B cards as well as a new 50p/25p video frame rate option for NTSC region cameras. Panasonic has also disabled the ‘Delete All’ touch control option in playback mode to minimize the possibility of accidentally deleting all of your media.

Firmware version 1.5 for the S1 and S1R is available to download on Panasonic’s support page.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon releases 1D X Mark III firmware update to fix lock-up issue, add 23.98p video capture

08 Apr

As it had promised a few weeks back, Canon has released a firmware update (version 1.1.0) for its 1D X Mark III DSLR camera that addresses the lock-up issue we first reported on in early March. In addition to the lock-up issue, the update addresses a few other ‘enhancements and fixes.’

First and foremost, firmware version 1.1.0 corrects a problem that would cause the camera to lock up when the electronic level is set to ‘Show’ in the viewfinder display and the shutter or AF-ON button is pressed. Below is a video from DPReview reader Hamilton Pytluk, who shared the lock-up issue in action:

The update, which was released on March 31 and only recently brought to our attention, also fixes an issue where the ‘Custom Shooting Mode’ settings could change when the shooting mode is switched and adds the option for a 23.98p frame rate option. Canon has also improved the communication speed when connected via wired LAN, added a ‘Browser Remote’ function and added the ability to transfer only images that are protected.

You can find the firmware update, available to download on both macOS and Windows computers, on Canon Europe’s 1D X Mark III support page.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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ProGrade Digital releases new Thunderbolt 3 CFexpress/XQD, updated CFexpress/SD card readers

01 Apr

ProGrade Digital has announced the release of the PG04 and PG05.5, a pair of memory card readers designed to make the most of their respective compatible media formats.

First up is the PG04, a single-slot Thunderbolt 3 reader for CFexpress Type B and XQD cards that offers max transfer speeds up to 40Gb/s (5GB/s). The PG04 comes with a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 3 cable as well as ProGrade’s patent-pending adhesive metal plate for attaching the magnetic reader to various surfaces.

Next up is the dual-slot PG05.5, a replacement for ProGrade Digital’s PG05 that features a CFexpress Type B (not compatible with XQD cards) and SD card slot (UHS-II). The updated reader uses a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface that offers speeds upwards of 10Gb/s (1.25GB/s). The PG05.5 comes with a USB Type C to USB Type C cable, a USB Type C to USB A cable and ProGrade’s patent-pending adhesive metal plate.

The PG04 and PG05.5 are currently available to purchase for $ 129.99 (Adorama, B&H) and $ 79.99 (Adorama, B&H), respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rogue releases new FlashBender v3 with better compatibility and improved usability

28 Mar

Rogue Photographic Design has released a new version of its popular FlashBender shapeable reflectors and softboxes for speedlights. The FlashBender v3 (shown above in the large size) incorporates numerous new features and improvements when compared to the v2, including a new internal mesh structure, quick-release buckle and more.

While the FlashBender v2 was compatible with strobes and speedlights of many sizes, the new v3 has been designed for even more compatibility. With its new grippier attachment strap, the v3 can fit strobes as small as 17cm (6.7″) and as large as 43cm (17″). The v2 could fit flashes and strobes from 19cm (7.5″) to just under 25cm (9.75″).

Rogue lists a variety of compatible flashes on its website, including speedlights from Canon, Godox, Nikon, Nissin, Olympus, Profoto and Sony. The mount is incorporated into the FlashBender v3 itself, so there’s no need for additional accessories or mounts when attaching the v3 to your flash.

With its new internal mesh structure, the FlashBender v3 can be more easily shaped to your needs and is better at maintaining its position. Compared to the v2, the FlashBender v3 makes it easier to shape and direct light where you need it.

Compared to the Rogue FlashBender v2 (left), the FlashBender v3 (right) has an improved strap and quick-release buckle. The new v3 is also compatible with a wider range of flashes and strobes than its predecessor. With its new internal mesh structure, the FlashBender v3 allows for better control over the direction of light than the v2 as well.

The FlashBender v3 maintains the same compact form factor as its predecessor, ensuring that you can easily fold it in half to pack it away when transporting your gear. To make the FlashBender v3 even easier to use, it incorporates a new quick-release buckle. One minor tradeoff for the improved usability and design is that the FlashBender v3 weighs slightly more than its predecessor. For example, the FlashBender v3 Large Reflector weighs 170g (6oz), whereas the v2 weighs 135g (4.8oz).

For those unfamiliar with the Rogue FlashBender, it is available in various configurations, including a large reflector, large softbox, small reflector, small softbox and an XL pro lighting system. With the reflector kits, you can use the FlashBender v3 to reflect and soften the light from your speedlight or strobe, allowing you to easily set up main, background, accent or hair lights. You can also use the FlashBender to easily direct and bounce light off existing reflective surfaces, such as a white ceiling. Compared to a diffuser, the FlashBender allows for more control of where your light is directed, allowing the photographer to opt for lower power settings or be able to take better photos in direct outdoor sunlight.

The FlashBender v3 softbox kits come with a FlashBender v3 reflector and also includes a diffusion panel, allowing you to create even softer light and eliminate bounce flash if you are working in an area with off-color ceilings. When using FlashBender v3, either attached to an on-camera flash or when using off-camera remote flash, you can shape it to create a reflector/gobo, snoot (tube) or softbox.

The Rogue FlashBender v3 is available in an XL Pro Lighting System kit (shown here) for $ 119.95. This kit comes with an extra-large Pro Reflector v3, extra-large Pro Diffuser v3 and Rogue’s Pro Strip Grid v3.

The Rogue FlashBender v3 is available in the following kits: Large Reflector ($ 44.95 USD), Large Soft Box Kit ($ 59.95), Small Reflector ($ 39.95), Small Soft Box Kit ($ 49.95) and XL Pro Lighting System ($ 119.95). The softbox kits include a reflector plus a diffusion panel. The XL Pro Lighting System includes an extra-large Pro Reflector v3, Pro Diffusion Panel v3 and Pro Strip Grid v3. For owners of the FlashBender or FlashBender v2, it is worth noting that existing versions of Rogue Diffusion Panels are not compatible with the new hook and loop modifications on the FlashBender v3.

For more information on the new Rogue FlashBender v3, visit the Rogue Photographic Design website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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