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Posts Tagged ‘Series’

Leica launches 9-lens Thalia series for cinematographers

31 Mar

Leica has announced a new range of cinema lenses that is aimed at photographers looking for a classic vintage look and exceptional bokeh. There will be nine focal lengths in the Thalia series that almost mirror the focal lengths the company offers its S medium format customers, but this new range is designed to cover a wider picture area to suit users of the Alexa 65, the VistaVison and Super 35mm formats.

The all-prime set-up comprises:

  • 24mm T3.6
  • 30mm T2.9
  • 35mm T2.6
  • 45mm T2.9
  • 55mm T2.8
  • 70mm T2.6
  • 100mm T2.2
  • 120mm T2.6
  • 180mm T3.6

Leica says it hasn’t gone for a super-sharp image but rather provides a look that many cinematographers search for by using older lenses with digital sensors. It claims the images are ‘clear without being overly sharp and focus is smooth and forgiving without looking soft. Skin tones are natural and smooth with accurate color rendition.’

The iris of each lens features 15 blades arranged in a mechanism that produces a circular aperture throughout the complete range of stops, according to Leica. The company says that this creates ‘a cinematic bokeh that comes alive with character. Out-of-focus elements maintain their structure, which further adds to the sense of dimensionality in the image.’
For the size of the covering circle the lenses are said to be relatively compact and lightweight, and each has a diameter of 95mm. The lenses will be available in PL mount and come with /i Technology contacts for metadata transfer.

No price has been announced yet, but these are going to cost more than one week’s pocket money. For more information see the CW Sonderoptic website.

Press release

Leica Thalia: New Lenses for Big Picture Cinematography

Responding to the increasing need for character-driven, large-format optics, CW Sonderoptic introduces the Leica Thalia series of prime lenses. The set of 9 spherical lenses provides an image circle of 60mm diagonal, which covers ARRI Alexa 65, VistaVision, and Super 35 film and digital formats while maintaining a consistent look and feel through all focal lengths.

The focal lengths of the lenses include 24, 30, 35, 45, 55, 70, 100, 120, and 180mm. The lenses are available in PL mount and offer /i Technology metadata contacts in the mount. The lenses maintain a 95mm front diameter and matched focus and iris ring locations for consistent accessory use. For large format lenses they are also incredibly compact and lightweight, with lengths between 4.9”-6.9” (124.5-175cm) and weighing between 2.4-3.75lbs (1.06-1.6kg).

One of the most unique features of the Leica Thalia lenses is their iris design, which maintains a circular shape through the entire aperture range. In addition to always being round, the bokeh is smooth, distinct and full of character, which helps the out of focus elements maintain structure and shape without falling apart.

Although the lenses are based on the Leica S medium format lenses, they feature significant optical and mechanical changes, including: increased image circle, new coatings, new iris design, 270° rotation cam focus mechanism, and entirely new mechanics and housings. Additionally, the 55mm lens is a completely new lens.

“The look of these lenses answers what we have heard from many cinematographers, and not just in regards to image circle,” said managing director Gerhard Baier.

“While they are new lenses, they do offer many of the characteristics that have encouraged cinematographers to pair older lenses with digital sensors. They are clear without being overly sharp. Focus is smooth and forgiving without appearing soft. Skin tones are natural and smooth with an accurate color rendition.”

The Leica Thalia lenses will be on display at the CW Sonderoptic booth at NAB (C4345) and will start delivering in Summer 2017.

For more information visit the product page at www.cw-sonderoptic.com/leica-thalia/ or contact us at sales@cw-sonderoptic.de.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D bring Dual Pixel AF to entry-level series

15 Feb

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Canon is taking the wraps off its latest entry-level DSLR, the EOS Rebel T7i (known as the EOS 800D in most regions and the Kiss X9i in Japan). It’s the highest specified of the beginner-friendly line and maintains the same 24.4MP resolution CMOS sensor as its T6i predecessor. What is new is a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system used for viewfinder shooting, and Dual Pixel AF in live view, a pretty serious upgrade over the T6i’s 19-point system. 

The T7i is the first Rebel to use Canon’s Digic 7 image processor, and provides a slightly faster 6 fps burst rate. Wi-Fi and NFC are now complemented by Bluetooth, making it compatible with Canon’s first-ever Bluetooth wireless remote as well as smartphones. A 3″ 1.04 million-dot touchscreen is offered, as is a new interface designed to guide beginning photographers and help them get the shots they want.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7i will go on sale in April for $ 750 body-only, $ 900 with the new EF-S 18-55mm F4-5.6 IS STM and $ 1300 with EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM. 

NEW CANON EOS REBEL T7i AND EOS 77D CAMERAS POSSESS STUNNING AUTOFOCUS CAPABILITIES

New DSLR Additions are Joined by New Compact EF-S Lens and Canon’s First-Ever Remote Utilizing Bluetooth® Technology3

MELVILLE, N.Y., February 14, 2017 – Developed and designed to meet the varying needs of entry-level and advanced amateur photographers, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced two new additions to the celebrated EOS system – the EOS Rebel T7i DSLR camera, which adds to the popular Rebel series of entry-level DSLR cameras, and the EOS 77D DLSR camera, which represents a new category of cameras for advanced amateur photographers. Canon also introduced today the new EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens and Wireless Remote Control BR-E1, as well as added functionality for the Canon Connect Station CS100. “In what marks the 30th year since the introduction of the Canon EOS System, the announcement today of these two new DSLR cameras exhibits Canon’s commitment to providing our customers with the tools they need to grow their passion for capturing the best possible pictures of the moments in time that mean the most to them, or inspire them to one day shoot professionally,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A.

Focused on Innovation

The EOS Rebel T7i and EOS 77D both feature an optical viewfinder with a 45-point All Cross-type AF system* to help enable more precise focusing. In live view mode, both cameras utilize Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF to deliver the world’s fastest AF focusing speed of 0.03 seconds.1 This technical achievement allows users to find their subject, focus accurately, and capture the shot more quickly than ever before. Both models also have built-in Wi-Fi®2, NFC3 and Bluetooth®4 technology for easy transfer of images.

In addition to the focusing enhancements, common features of the EOS Rebel T7i and EOS 77D cameras include:

  • Optical Viewfinder with a 45-point All Cross-type AF System*
  • Fast and accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase-detection
  • 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor
  • DIGIC 7 Image Processor, ISO 100–25600
  • Built-in Wi-Fi®2, NFC3 and Bluetooth®4 technology
  • Vari-angle Touch Screen, 3.0-inch LCD
  • Movie Electronic IS
  • HDR Movie & Time-Lapse Movie
  • High-speed Continuous Shooting at up to 6.0 frames per second (fps)

Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera

The EOS Rebel T7i is the first camera in the EOS Rebel series with a 45-point, all cross-type AF system* within the Optical Viewfinder. It is also the first in the series with Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase-detection and the first with a DIGIC 7 Image Processor. Creative filters for both still images and video will allow users to customize the look and feel of their content in new and imaginative ways.

When designing the new EOS Rebel T7i, Canon took into consideration feedback from entry-level photographers who expressed interest in learning to go beyond the program mode of a DSLR camera. Users will now be able to see on-screen how switching modes on the mode dial or tweaking settings can alter the image they are about to capture, guiding photographers on their way to capturing more compelling images, such as ones with a shallower depth-of-field or being able to give moving-subjects a frozen or flowing look.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is scheduled to be available in April 2017 for an estimated retail price $ 749.99** for the body only, $ 899.99** with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens and $ 1,299.00** with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens respectively. For more information please visit, usa.canon.com/eosrebelt7i.

Canon EOS 77D Camera

For advanced amateur photographers looking to expand their knowledge and experience with DSLR cameras, Canon’s new EOS 77D is the ideal next step camera for them. The EOS 77D represents a new category of advanced amateur EOS cameras, a step above the Rebel series. Users of the EOS 77D DSLR camera will benefit from features like the 7650-pixel RBG+IR Metering Sensor, similar to the one found in the EOS 80D camera and Anti-Flicker shooting mode to help combat the on-and-off repetitive flickering from artificial lights found in high-school gyms or auditoriums. The EOS 77D also features a top LCD panel and quick control dial for photographers who desire quicker and easier access to changing and controlling settings on the camera.

The Canon EOS 77D is scheduled to be available in April 2017 for an estimated retail price $ 899.99** for the body only, $ 1,049.00** with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens and $ 1,499.00** with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens respectively. For more information please visit, usa.canon.com/eos77d.

EF-S Lens and Remote Accessory Utilizing Bluetooth® Technology

The new Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is nearly 20 percent smaller than the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, without sacrificing image quality. Features of the lens include:

  • Compact-size, Standard Zoom Lens with High Image Quality
  • Lead Screw-type STM
  • Image Stabilization at up to 45 Stops of Shake Correction
  • Stylish Design

The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in early April 2017 for an estimated retail price of $ 249.99**. For more information please visit, usa.canon.com/efs1855stm.

In addition, Canon is introducing it’s first-ever remote utilizing Bluetooth® technology3, the Wireless Remote Control BR-E1. This new remote allows photographers to capture images from within a 16-foot radius of the camera. This camera accessory is useful for photographers who are looking to capture images remotely in situations where there could be issues with signal reception or line-of-sight to the camera. The Canon Wireless Remote Control BR-E1 will be compatible with both the EOS Rebel T7i and EOS 77D cameras. The Canon BR-E1 is schedule to be available in April 2017 for an estimated retail price of $ 50.00**.

CS100 Firmware Update
Both the EOS Rebel T7i and EOS 77D cameras are compatible with the Canon Connect Station CS100 device, a go-to-photo and video hub that allows family and friends a way to quickly and easily store, manage view and share unforgettable memorable moment’s wirelessly6. Canon is also announcing today a firmware update to the Canon Connect Station CS100 device and mobile application. The firmware update includes the following improvements:

  • Compatibility for select Canon and non-Canon cameras, with a wider range of supported file formats7
  • Support for video playback of computer-edited movies8
  • Improved smartphone connectivity and compatibility

For more information about the Canon Connect Station firmware update, please visit usa.canon.com/cs100mobile.

* The number of AF points, cross-type AF points and Dual cross-type AF points vary depending on the lens used

** Availability, prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set be individual dealers and may vary.

1 Among all the interchangeable lens digital cameras incorporating the APS-C size image sensors with phase-difference detection AF on the image plane As of February 14th, 2017 (Researched by Canon). Calculated based on the resulting AF speed measured according to the CIPA guidelines. (Varies depending on the shooting conditions and the lenses used.) Internal measurement method. [Measurement conditions] Focusing brightness: EV 12 (room temperature, ISO 100) Shooting mode: M Lens used: EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM (at focal length of 55mm) Live View shooting AF method: Live 1-point AF (with Center AF point) AF operation: One-Shot AF

2 Compatible with iOS® versions 8.0/8.1/8.2/8.3/8.4/9.0/9.1/9.2/9.3/10.0, Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0/7.0. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.

3 Compatible with Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0/7.0. 4Compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (AndroidTM version 5.0 or later and the following iOS® devices: iPhone 4s or later, iPad 3rd gen. or later, iPod Touch 5th gen. or later) equipped with Bluetooth® version 4.0 or later and the Camera Connect App Ver. 1.3.20 or above. This application is not guaranteed to operate on all listed devices, even if minimum requirements are met.

5 Based on CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards. Testing performed using the EOS 7D Mark II digital SLR camera at a focal length of 55mm, 35mm-equivalent 88mm. The number of stops may vary based on the camera model used.

6 Compatible with iOS® versions 8.4x/9.2.x, Android™ Smartphone and tablet versions 4.4.x, 5.0.x/5.1.x, 6.0.x. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Connect Station app. The application is available in the apple app store or google play store.

7 Support for playback of all images on this device cannot be guaranteed.

8 JPEG and RAW (CR2) still images, and MOV/MP4 and AVCHD movies are supported.

Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D / Kiss X9i specifications

Price
MSRP $ 749 (body only), $ 899 (w/18-55 F4-5.6 IS STM lens), $ 1299 (w/18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM lens)
Body type
Body type Mid-size SLR
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 photo detectors 26 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (22.3 x 14.9 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor DIGIC 7
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
Boosted ISO (maximum) 51200
White balance presets 6
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, normal
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (14-bit Canon CR2)
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 (flash)
Digital zoom No
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 45
Lens mount Canon EF/EF-S
Focal length multiplier 1.6×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3
Screen dots 1,040,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Optical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder coverage 95%
Viewfinder magnification 0.82×
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Group Photo
  • Kids
  • Food
  • Candlelight
  • Night Portrait
  • Handheld Night Scene
  • HDR Backlight Control
  • Portrait
  • Landscape
  • Close-up
  • Sports
Built-in flash Yes
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Flash X sync speed 1/200 sec
Drive modes
  • Single
  • High-speed continuous
  • Low-speed continuous
  • Self-timer
  • Self-timer + continuous
Continuous drive 6.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Average
  • Spot
  • Partial
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±3 (3 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 12 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 26 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 30p / 4 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes Includes Bluetooth LE and NFC
Remote control Yes (via smartphone or Bluetooth remote)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description LP-E17 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 600
Weight (inc. batteries) 532 g (1.17 lb / 18.77 oz)
Dimensions 131 x 100 x 76 mm (5.16 x 3.94 x 2.99)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS Optional

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon cancels DL compact series citing high development costs

14 Feb

Nikon has officially put an end to the DL series. Announced just under a year ago, the three DL compacts would have had 1″ sensors. Nikon missed its June target ship date, citing problems related to the image processor. Now, Nikon says that the development costs had become too great to continue. A statement released today also mentions the company’s concern that it wouldn’t sell enough units to make up for the increased costs, due to a slow down in the market.

That wasn’t the only piece of bad news from Nikon this morning. The company released its third quarter financial results and due to costs of a ‘voluntary retirement’ program it initiated last year and semiconductor inventory write-offs, has announced an ‘extraordinary loss’ from April to December of 2016. The impact of this is reflected in an updated forecast for the financial year ending in March, lowering predictions of net sales and operating income. The statement acknowledges a ‘sluggish and shrinking’ market for digital cameras.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Think Tank launches Signature series of soft shoulder bags

11 Feb

Camera bag manufacturer Think Tank has announced a new range of shoulder bags designed to look good as well as protect your equipment. The company says its new Signature range is made from a polyester/nylon blend that feels as soft as fine wool even though it has a water repellent coating.

The bags come in two sizes and are aimed at those with smaller interchangeable lens system bodies rather than full-blown DSLR kits. Think Tank says the bags are suitable for one body and three to four lenses, while the larger of the bags, the 13, can also accommodate a 13″ laptop.

The straps of the bags are made from leather while metal clasps keep it fastened shut. A waterproofing layer coats the base of the bags to protect them when they are placed on wet surfaces.

The Think Tank Signature 10 and 13 bags cost $ 249 and $ 279 and will be available in Slate Gray or Dusty Olive. For more information see the Think Tank website.

Manufacturer information

Signature Series

The Signature Series from Think Tank is a modernized version of the classic shoulder bag. Whether you are a young urban professional or corporate photographer, the Signature shoulder bag is as fashionable as it is functional. Hand sewn advanced fabrics blend weather protection and durability with the classic feel of fine wool.
Genuine leather detailing and metal hardware adds character and stands up to the rigors of a photographer’s daily use.

KEY FEATURES

  • Modern wool-like fabric that is soft to the touch and stands-up to everyday use
  • Full-grain leather bottom and detailing, plus antique finished metal hardware
  • Zippered flap provides full closure and security to the main compartment, or tucks away when not in use
  • Dedicated laptop/tablet compartment: Signature 13 fits a 13” laptop

Additional Features

  • Secure clasps on front flap with one handed operation
  • Soft look and feel with clothing-safe materials and design
  • Dedicated phone pocket fits up to an iPhone 6s+ or S7 Edge
  • Wide handle pass-through for attaching to rolling luggage
  • Large front pocket for an extra strobe, rain cover or small book
  • Long, cushioned neoprene shoulder pad positions easily when worn cross-body
  • Zippered front pocket provides security for small items and includes a built-in organizer for pens and business cards
  • Quilted velex dividers can be customized to fit your gear
  • Shorter dividers can be made into shelves to stack shorter lenses and primes
  • Dividers and bottom foam can be removed for a completely collapsible bag
  • Although the bag’s outer fabric is treated with water resistant coating, a seam-sealed rain cover is included for downpour conditions

What Fits
1 standard-size DSLR with mid-range zoom attached plus 2–3 additional lenses
13” laptop fits inside a dedicated compartment

Specifications
Internal Dimensions:
13.3” W x 9.1” H x 5.1” D (34 x 23 x 13 cm)
Exterior Dimensions:
14.6” W x 10.4” H x 6.3” D (37 x 26.5 x 16 cm)
Laptop/Tablet Pocket:
13” W x 9.1” H x 1.2” D (33 x 23 x 3 cm)
Weight:
3.1 lbs. (1.4 kg)

Materials
Exterior:
Durable water-repellant (DWR) coating
Polyurethane coating
240D wool-like 195G nylon/poly blend
Full-grain leather
YKK® RC Fuse (abrasion-resistant) zippers
Antique-plated metal hardware
550D polyspun
Nylon seatbelt webbing
Neoprene
3-ply bonded nylon thread

Interior:
High-density closed cell foam dividers
210D silver-toned nylon lining
Polyurethane backed velex liner & dividers
2x polyurethane coated nylon 210T seam-sealed rain cover
Nylon binding
3-ply bonded nylon thread

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Abandoned Montage: VFX Film Technique Adapted to Eerie Art Series

14 Jan

[ By SA Rogers in Art & Drawing & Digital. ]

abandoned-interiors-main

Photographs of abandoned houses and dreary, overgrown landscapes are layered with hand-painted elements on glass panels in a technique called ‘matte painting’, one of the original VFX techniques used in filmmaking. Disparate imagery comes together in a way that doesn’t quite make sense, placing entire forests inside the darkened parlor of a deteriorating mansion or pairing wallpaper-like landscape scenes with real greenery inside a partially collapsed room.

abandone-interiors-2

abandoned-interiors-3

Artist Suzanne Moxhay, based in London, utilizes this early 20th century filmmaking technique – which was also used in more recent motion pictures like Star Wars, Mary Poppins, Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Birds – as the basis for each of her unsettling scenes. On live-action sets, paintings on glass would be integrated with the camera to become part of the scene.

abandoned-interiors-4

abandoned-interiors-main

abandoned-inteirors-5

Instead of creating hers in situ, Moxhay draws from an archive of collected images and her own photography, building up the images in her studio using cutout fragments of the source material, which she makes into tiny stage sets on glass panels. Then, she takes a photo of the result, finally manipulating them digitally to remove them even further from their original context and make them into something entirely new.

abandoned-interiors-6

abandoned-interiors-8

“In my recent work I have been exploring concepts of spatial containment in montages built from fragments of photographed and painted interiors,” says Moxhay. “Architectures are disrupted by analogous elements – contradictory light sources, faulty perspective, paradoxes of scale. Light casts shadows in the wrong direction, walls fail to meet in corners, an area of the image can be seen either as an enclosing wall or dark overcast sky.”

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Benjamin Von Wong’s latest project spotlights conservation with mermaid photo series

13 Dec

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A single plastic bottle doesn’t make for a terribly compelling photo. But what about 10,000 plastic bottles and an brightly costumed model? That’s a different story.

Benjamin Von Wong’s latest project seeks to call attention to the problem of plastic pollution. Von Wong quotes research that says 50% of plastic is used just once before it’s thrown away, and by 2050 the world’s oceans will contain more plastic than fish. 

Von Wong wanted to call attention to the problem, and came up with a concept that would help represent his subject beautifully – colorful mermaids lost in a sea of plastic. To do so required a massive number of plastic bottles and an equally large space to stage the scenes. You can read more about the logistics on Von Wong’s blog.

Using a Sony a7R II and a 16-35mm F4 ZA OSS, Von Wong captured the scale of his creations by rigging the camera to a system of plywood and pulleys, suspending it high above his model. He controlled it remotely from an iPad, and previewed images on a borrowed 52″ TV. See how it came together in the behind-the-scenes video below. If you want to take action, you can sign a petition to pledge to reduce your use of plastic. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Urban Agritecture: Terraced Townhouse Supports Series of Green Roofs

20 Nov

[ By WebUrbanist in Architecture & Houses & Residential. ]

urban-agritecture

A stepped-roof residence recently completed in Vietnam combines architecture and agriculture, inspired by the terraced rice fields found in the countryside.

windows-and-shade

steps-and-light

Designed by H&P Architects, the accessible platforms overhead serve a variety of purposes simultaneously. Slotted windows at each incremental level allow in light while the natural vegetation helps filter dust, noise and heat in the tropical climate. These plants, in turn, are supported by a built-in irrigation system as well as channeled storm water.

stepped-house-design

rooftop-deck-vegetation

A series of small staircases connect each of the exterior decks, stepping over planters that span the length of the house across multiple levels.

living-room-view

light-conditions

terraced-green-space

At grade and on the floor above are living accommodations including a play area, lounge and kitchen as well as multiple bedrooms. A workshop and study are located on the third and top level. The whole house is also designed to maximize airflow across levels, bringing cool air in from the shaded side and venting it along the horizontal rooftop windows.

green-roof-diagram

roof-view-looking-down

From the architects: “agricultural cultivation helps bring city dwellers closer to the nature by giving them interesting first-hand experience in planting, taking good care and sharing harvested produce from their own farmland plots with their neighbors.”

stepped-housed

stepped-house-at-night

This home “serves as a constant reminder of the origin of paddy rice civilization in a flat world context threatened by various types of pollution currently at an alarming level. it is, at the same time, expected to promote the expansion of farmland plots in urban areas with a view to securing food supplies for future life.”

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Mountainsmith debuts Chris Burkard T.A.N Camera Series bags for adventurers

15 Nov

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Mountainsmith has launched a new camera bag series called T.A.N. (Tough as Nails) in collaboration with photographer Chris Burkard, whose name is featured on the bags. Burkard helped design the five new bags, according to Mountainsmith; the series is comprised of the Tanuck 40L backpack, Tanack 10L lumbar pack, and the TAN Kit Cube in small, medium and large sizes.

The Tanuck 40L backpack ($ 230) is the largest and most expensive of the bunch, offering a ‘tough and versatile’ design with space for a 17-inch laptop, camera, lenses, batteries, tripod, hydration bladder, and other accessories. The backpack is compatible with the smaller Tanack 10L lumbar pack ($ 100), which offers additional space for more gear. The TAN Kit Cube bags ($ 50, $ 60, and $ 70), meanwhile, are designed to carry a camera, lenses and accessories like SD cards.

All five bags are made from 610d Cordura HP fabric with a 210d nylon liner and EVA high-density PE foam. The backpack also features 630d nylon carbonate, while the backpack and lumbar pack both include YKK zippers. All five bags are water-resistant and described as durable.

Via: ThePhoblographer

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Tokina launches FiRIN mirrorless lens series with 20mm F2.0 FE MF

18 Sep

Tokina has today introduced a new prime lens that is specifically designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless full-frame cameras. The 20mm F2.0 FE MF is the first lens in the new FiRIN mirroless lens series and combines a fast aperture with a wide angle of view and manual focus.

“This is an exciting first step into the mirrorless market for Tokina,” says Kenko Tokina USA President, Yasu Suga. “The all-new design delivers a sharp edge-to-edge image and greatly reduces exposure fall-off for a crisp, clear image. The lens is manual focus with manual aperture control but transmits distance and aperture information to the lens allowing the camera to utilize the 5-axis Image Stabilization, Manual Focus Assist, and other features that require electronic lens communication. I am happy to report that our engineers in Japan are hard at work designing more lenses for the FiRIN mirrorless series; the future is bright.”

The lens comes with a wide focus ring for easy manual focusing and the aperture ring can be “clicked” for stills photography and “de-clicked” for smoother operation when shooting video. Electronic contacts allow for communication with the camera. The lens will officially be unveiled at the Photokina trade show in Cologne, Germany, next week. We expect more information on pricing and availability to be released then as well.


Press release:

NEW TOKINA FíRIN 20mm F2 FE MF

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Tokina USA introduces the fast aperture, full-frame 20mm F/2.0 FE MF prime camera lens. This lens marks the initial offering of FiRIN, a new mirrorless lens series. This new lens series from Tokina is designed for a photography market that is rapidly adopting mirrorless camera systems as a standard. The FiRIN 20mm f/2.0 lens is a bright, wide-angle lens that is compatible with Sony E-Mount cameras.

“This is an exciting first step into the mirrorless market for Tokina,” says Kenko Tokina USA President, Yasu Suga. “The all-new design delivers a sharp edge-to-edge image and greatly reduces exposure fall-off for a crisp, clear image. The lens is manual focus with manual aperture control but transmits distance and aperture information to the lens allowing the camera to utilize the 5-axis Image Stabilization, Manual Focus Assist, and other features that require electronic lens communication. I am happy to report that our engineers in Japan are hard at work designing more lenses for the FiRIN mirrorless series; the future is bright.”

The FiRIN 20mm f/2.0 features a wide focus ring for smooth manual control, an aperture ring that can be “clicked” and “de-clicked” on demand for cinema and photo use, and electronic contacts for maximum communication with the camera. The lens will be unveiled at Photokina 2016 in Cologne, Germany. The Kenko Tokina booth is located in Hall 5.2, stand C020.

Tokina 20mm F2 FE MF specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 20 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring Yes
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 13
Groups 11
Special elements / coatings Multi-layer coatings
Focus
Minimum focus 0.28 m (11.02)
Maximum magnification 0.1×
Autofocus No
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale Yes
Physical
Weight 490 g (1.08 lb)
Diameter 62 mm (2.44)
Length 69 mm (2.72)
Sealing No
Colour Black
Filter thread 62.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

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Artist Socks Series: Wear Pairs of Figures from Famous Paintings

24 Jul

[ By WebUrbanist in Design & Products & Packaging. ]

artist socks abstract

Simple stripes, colors and patterns are all that is visible when you are wearing shoes, but kick them off and you can show off famous figures from classic paintings. They may not be fit for formal wear situations, but are certainly fun for everyday occasions (and a great idea for sock puppet shows).

vincent van socks

artist sock box

These series of silly socks from ChattyFeet is equally informal about their titling of the various pairs. Famous artists are given name twists, resulting in Andy Sock-Hole and David Sock-Knee. Other pairs include Frida Callus and Feetasso (from Frida Kahlo and Pablo Picasso).

andy sock hole

david sock knee

From the designers: “The master of modern art David Sock-Knee is on hand (or foot) when you want to impress with your knowledge of home-grown British artists. They are just the thing to wear to that exhibition opening event and don’t forget to snap a ‘sockie’ photo when you visit famous galleries. Follow in this famous face’s footsteps by recreating your favourite holiday scenes in acrylic – just don’t splash any on your socks!”

art fun socks

artist feetaso

ChattyFeet is a quirky brand that offers “silly sock personalities” for adults and children alike. The studio’s line of cheeky characters colorfully drawn onto comfortable cotton socks.

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[ By WebUrbanist in Design & Products & Packaging. ]

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