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Posts Tagged ‘Support’

Hasselblad updates firmware for X1D-50c, adds support for new XCD lenses

26 Jan

Hasselblad has announced a firmware update for its X1D-50c medium format mirrorless camera that brings new and improved support to a number of lenses and a converter as well as added features and functionality within the camera itself.

In addition to improved autofocus compatibility with compatible HC/HCD lenses via the XH Adapter, firmware version 1.22 adds support for the following lenses and converter:

  • XCD 65mm F2.8
  • XCD 80mm F1.9
  • XCD 135mm F2.8
  • H 1.7x Converter

Also in the update is a new exposure bracketing option that makes it possible to set a timer to avoid camera shake when shooting long exposures, a new indication to let users know what Auto Focus Scan Range is being used (Near, Far, or Full) and a new customizable icon arrangement on the main menu screen of the X1D-50c.

It’s also now possible to turn off the front-facing LED when using the self timer countdown and the ability to reset focus point in live view by pressing the Cross (X) button.

Firmware version 1.22 can be downloaded directly from Hasselblad’s website.

Hasselblad Firmware Update 1.22 for X1D-50c adds support for new XCD Lenses

With the release of Hasselblad’s most recent XCD Lenses, the XCD 65, 80, and 135 including X Converter 1,7, the new 1.22 Firmware Update ensures photographers are equipped with the most up-to-date tools for capturing their creative visions. Alongside the latest 0.5.33 lens firmware, this update also includes a list of minor improvements that advance the overall functionality of the X1D- 50c mirrorless medium format camera. As with all X1D-50c and XCD Lens firmware updates, these upgraded features are easily downloaded through the My Hasselblad section at Hasselblad.com.

Support of Newest Lenses The XCD 2,8/65, XCD 1,9/80 and XCD 2,8/135 are added to the lineup of supported lenses for the X1D-50c. Note that these lenses must also be updated to firmware 0.5.33 as well.

New Exposure Bracketing option It is now possible to set an initial delay in order to avoid camera shake on long exposures.

Indication of Auto Focus Scan Range in Live View With lenses that support divided scan range of Near, Far, or Full, a visual icon will be shown in Live View indicating when Near or Far settings are enabled. Currently the XCD 120 and XCD 135 lenses support this feature.

Customisable icon arrangement on main menu screen Drag and drop icons to rearrange quick-access shortcuts to settings and options on the X1D-50c’s main menu screen.

New Custom Button options Three new custom button options are available, including Live View On/Off, Drive to Near (mini- mum focus distance) and AF Scan Range Cycle.

New Self Timer option It is now possible to turn off the front flashing LED during the Self Timer countdown.

AF with HC/HCD Lenses and Converters/Extension Tubes Autofocus for compatible HC/HCD Lenses via the XH Adapter includes expanded support of select H System lens accessories including extension tubes and select adapters.

Reset Focus point in Live View Set Focus Point back to the centre directly while in Live View by pressing the Cross (X) Button.

Firmware updates are available from the “My Hasselblad > Downloads” section online at Hasselblad. com. Users can update their firmware simply by downloading the “.cim” file to an SD card and selecting Firmware Update from the Service Menu on their camera.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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OWC Mercury Helios FX 650 eGPU chassis launches with macOS, Windows support

18 Jan

OWC has launched Mercury Helios FX 650, an external GPU (eGPU) chassis compatible with macOS and Windows computers with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity. As with the Blackmagic eGPU and similar models, the new Mercury Helios FX 650 enables professionals to increase the graphics processing power of their desktop or laptop computers.

The Helios FX 650, which is made from recyclable materials, features a large temperature-controlled fan with variable speed support, the promise of quiet operation, an upgraded 650w power supply capable of providing 100w charging power to a connected computer, and support for most Thunderbolt-compatible GPUs.

The new OWC eGPU weighs 3kg / 7lbs and measures 20 x 34 x 18.5cm 7.9 x 13.4 x 7.3in. Unlike select competing models that have built-in GPUs and sealed designs, the Mercury Helios 650 can be upgraded to newer, faster GPUs in the future to meet evolving needs. The eGPU chassis is available now from MacSales for $ 399 USD.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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X-Rite launches beta version of its custom ICC profiling tool with Capture One support

10 Jan

Color management and measurement technology company X-Rite has announced a new public beta release of ColorChecker Camera Calibration software version 1.2. This pre-release update includes support for Phase One’s Capture One software with TIFF file support, a first for X-Rite’s custom profiling tool.

X-Rite has been working on adding Capture One support to its custom camera profiling software for some time now and it’s finally here — at least in beta form. As is currently possible in the Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Camera Raw version of the ColorChecker Camera Calibration software, v1.2 adds the ability to create custom ICC profiles in Capture One with various camera, lens and lighting combinations.

X-Rite has created a helpful how-to video, embedded below, that runs through the process of creating a custom ICC profile using Camera Calibration software v1.2. There’s also a PDF version available.

To download the public beta release, head over to X-Rite’s download page. Keep in mind this is a pre-release program, so there will likely be a few bugs here and there. X-Rite requests users submit details when an error occurs to help further development.

X-Rite also notes a known issue with the Windows version of the ColorChecker Camera Calibration software wherein ‘the software cannot process a TIFF file larger than 150 megabytes.’ X-Rite suggests cropping or reducing the resolution if users run into this issue and notes the issue is currently being addressed.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon to add Eye AF, Raw video and CFexpress support to Z-series

08 Jan

Nikon has announced a trio of features under development for its Z6 and Z7 mirrorless cameras. First is Eye AF, a feature long found on Sony mirrorless cameras, including the a7 III and a7R III against which the Z6 and Z7 compete.

Another significant upcoming feature is the ability to output ProRes RAW video to an Atomos Ninja V. This would make the Z6 and Z7 the first stills/video hybrid cameras to support RAW video output, suggesting that Nikon is very serious about competing in the video space. In that context, the just-announced Z6 Filmmaker’s Kit with a bundled Ninja V recorder makes a lot of sense.

Finally, the company confirmed that support for CFexpress cards is on the way. CFexpress cards are capable of much higher read/write speeds than current XQD media.

More detail on all three features will be announced at a later date.

Press Release

NIKON DELIVERS IMAGING INNOVATION, INSPIRES CREATORS AT CES® 2019

New Products Including NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S Lens and Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit Will be Showcased; Attendees Invited to Booth to See Amazing Speakers, Fun & Sharable Displays as Well as Future Z System Updates

LAS VEGAS – CES BOOTH #14006 (January 7, 2019) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced details surrounding their activities and new products at CES 2019. This year, Nikon will livestream a myriad of exciting and inspiring presentations from renowned Nikon Ambassadors and photographers directly from the show floor, while also offering instantly shareable and interactive experiences for show attendees. Additionally, Nikon will be showing the latest digital imaging innovations available now and in the near future with a Z Series exhibition featuring the new NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S lens, the Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit and a display of upgrades currently in development for the Z Series that will add new features and enhance usability.

Booth Activities: Livestream, Presentations and Shareable Moments

During CES, the Nikon booth will host live presentations and panel discussions from various Nikon Ambassadors and photographers covering a wide array of topics; from capturing weddings to conservation, outdoor adventures to iconic rock legends and more. Nikon will also be holding hands-on demonstrations and discussions with Nikon Ambassadors at an additional stage within the booth. Show attendees are encouraged to visit Nikon for giveaways, to chat with a product expert, or to check out the full line of award-winning Nikon DSLR cameras. While there, visitors can also experience the vast selection of NIKKOR lenses and an assortment of other products, including the COOLPIX P1000 with its powerful 125x optical zoom lens.

For those around the world who want to join in, Nikon will again be livestreaming all presentations directly from the booth from Tuesday, January 8 to Friday, January 11. To watch, please visit www.nikonusa.com/live or www.facebook.com/nikonusa. A full schedule of Nikon presentations can be found below.

New for CES 2019

  • NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S Lens – This is the first ultra-wide zoom lens for the Z Mount System and the world’s first* full-frame 14mm filter-attachable lens. This new S-Line lens is ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios including landscapes, interiors and architecture. The 14-30mm f/4 S lens is both compact and lightweight while delivering incredible sharpness and versatility. This new lens takes full advantage of the benefits of Nikon’s new Z Mount and demonstrates superior optical performance that maximizes the potential of high pixel-count digital cameras like the 45.7-megapixel Nikon Z 7. The NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S lens will be available in Spring 2019 for a suggested retail price of $ 1,299.95**.
  • Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit For content creators and filmmakers looking to fully utilize the Nikon Z 6’s advanced video capabilities, Nikon has created a new Filmmaker’s Kit incorporating the camera as well an array of essential video capture accessories. The bundle includes: a Nikon Z 6 camera, NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens, Mount Adapter FTZ, Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR 5” Monitor Recorder, Rode VideoMic Pro Plus, MOZA Air 2 3-Axis Hand-Held Gimbal Stabilizer, an additional EN-EL15b battery, a coiled HDMI cable, a 12-month Vimeo Pro membership and a complimentary Nikon School Online class. The Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit will be available in late January 2019 for a suggested retail price of $ 3,999.95**.
  • Share Your Experience from the Nikon Pop-Up Studio – CES attendees are encouraged to stop by the Nikon booth to experience the interactive fan area, which will give show-goers the chance to capture visually fun and distinct moments to share with their own social media followers and friends. A selection of carefully curated scenes will depict whimsical and colorful interactive environments that create fun photo opportunities. All still images and slow-motion video will be captured by the latest Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras and NIKKOR lenses, delivering incredible image quality and results.

The Nikon Z Series: Upcoming Firmware on Display

The Nikon Z series will continue to adapt to changing user needs through the development and roll-out of firmware updates to meet and exceed creative expectations. Taking into account feedback from photographers and creators, Nikon will display three feature updates under development that open creative opportunities for the Z 6 and Z 7. Displays will include:

  • CFexpress Coming soon to the Z 6 and Z 7 cameras is support for CFexpress, which is compatible with the XQD memory card form-factor.
  • Eye AF Under development is an Eye AF function, which will automatically detect the subject’s eyes to make attaining critical focus on the eyes easier. It will allow users to capture photos in which focus has been clearly acquired on the subject’s eye, which is useful for portrait, event and street photography scenarios.
  • RAW Video Support Nikon is currently developing a feature that works with the ATOMOS Ninja V to output video in RAW format, using the ProRes RAW codec.

Details, including the release date of new firmware updates, will be shared at a later date.

Nikon Theater Presentation Schedule

The Nikon Theater will feature a full schedule of inspiring and engaging photographers throughout CES. Presentations will be available via livestream so those not attending CES 2019 can watch remotely here: www.nikonusa.com/live or www.facebook.com/nikonusa. Presentations will be captured using Nikon cameras, NIKKOR lenses and various automated broadcast solutions from MRMC, a Nikon company.

Day 1 – Tuesday, January 8 (Show Hours: 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. PST)

  • 10:45 AM- 11:15 AM: Day to Night – Stephen Wilkes
  • 11:30 AM- 12:00 PM: Adventures in Z Land – Joe McNally
  • 12:00 PM- 12:30 PM: Showing Motion with A Single Frame – Kristi Odom
  • 12:45 PM- 1:15 PM: Ocean’s Matter – Brian Skerry
  • 1:15 PM- 1:45 PM: Flowmotion (and the importance of finding your style) – Rob Whitworth
  • 2:00 PM- 2:45 PM: Framing the Narrative: Photography in Conservation – Panel Discussion with Ami Vitale, Brian Skerry, James Balog
  • 2:45 PM- 3:15 PM: Framing the Narrative – Ami Vitale
  • 3:30 PM- 4:15 PM: The Power of Personal Projects – Panel Discussion with Stacy Pearsall, Jen Rozenbaum, Tamara Lackey
  • 4:15 PM- 4:45 PM: Z Pictures Everywhere: Travel, In – Studio and Every Day Life! – Tamara Lackey
  • 5:00 PM- 5:30 PM: The Human Element: A New Vision of Nature – James Balog
  • 5:30 PM- 6:00 PM: How to Wow – Jerry Ghionis

Day 2 – Wednesday, January 9 (Show Hours: 9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. PST)

  • 9:45 AM- 10:15 AM: A Colorful Career in Black and White – Stacy Pearsall
  • 10:30 AM- 11:00 AM: Sports Photography: Capturing Moments from Sandlots to the Pros – Rod Mar
  • 11:00 AM- 11:30 AM: Magazine Portraits: Celebrities, Athletes, and the Race Against Time – Joey Terrill
  • 11:45 AM- 12:30 PM: Photographing Animals and Wildlife – Panel Discussion with Ron Magill, Michelle Valberg, Keith Ladzinski
  • 12:30 PM- 1:00 PM: Storytelling the Wild Way – Ron Magill
  • 1:15 PM- 2:00 PM: Sports and Action Photography – Panel Discussion with Andrew Hancock, Jen Edney, Jen Pottheiser, Rod Mar
  • 2:00 PM- 2:30 PM: Creative Storytelling in Sports Photography – Andrew Hancock
  • 2:45 PM- 3:15 PM: Finding Your Way in Sports Photography – Jen Pottheiser
  • 3:15 PM- 3:45 PM: The Modern Photographer – Keith Ladzinski
  • 4:00 PM- 4:45 PM: Concert Photography: “Then and Now” – Panel Discussion with Baron Wolman, Knight, Owyoung, Jenn Deveraux
  • 4:45 PM- 5:15 PM: Music Photography: Low Light, All Access- Todd Owyoung
  • 5:30 PM- 6:00 PM: My Journey into Adventure Photography- Jen Edney

Day 3 – Thursday, January 10 (Show Hours: 9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. PST)

  • 9:45 AM- 10:15 AM: Wildlife Photography: Creating Emotional Impact – Michelle Valberg
  • 10:30 AM- 11:00 AM: Z Joy of Photography – Matthew Jordan Smith
  • 11:00 AM- 11:30 AM: Journey Through Landscape – Taylor Glenn
  • 11:45 AM- 12:30 PM: Photography in Social World – Keith Ladzinski,
  • 12:30 PM- 1:00 PM: Small Footprint Video Production: The Making of Morning – Corey Rich
  • 1:15 PM- 2:00 PM: Storytelling with Motion – Video Panel Discussion with Corey Rich, Chris Hershman, Keith Ladzinski, Diane Fitzmaurice
  • 2:00 PM- 2:30 PM: Intimate Portraits: Healing on Both Sides of the Lens – Jen Rozenbaum
  • 2:45 PM- 3:15 PM: I Saw the Music – Baron Wolman
  • 3:15 PM- 3:45 PM: Filmmaking in The Music Industry – Chris Hershman
  • 4:00 PM- 4:45 PM: On the Rise – Getting Started in Photography – Up and Coming-Young Photographers – Panel Discussion with Taylor Gray, Kiamarie Stone, Nicolas Bruno
  • 4:45 PM- 5:15 PM: Be Consistent: Build Your Brand – Kiamarie Stone
  • 5:30 PM- 6:00 PM: Wedding Day Moments Captured – Cliff Mautner

Day 4 – Friday, January 11 (Show Hours: 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. PST)

  • 9:15 AM- 9:45 AM: Photographer Talk
  • 9:45 AM- 10:15 AM: Creative Landscapes: Finding Shots Beyond the Obvious – Mandy Lea
  • 10:30 AM- 11:00 AM: Relive the Moments: Documenting Life – Charmi Pena
  • 11:00 AM- 11:30 AM: Exploring the Art of Landscape and Time- lapse Photography – Taylor Gray
  • 11:45 AM- 12:30 PM: The Power of Portrait Photography – Panel Discussion with Jerry Ghionis, Charmi Pena, Dixie Dixon
  • 12:30 PM- 1:00 PM: Lights, Camera, Fashion – Dixie Dixon
  • 1:15 PM- 2:00 PM: Making Dynamic Landscape Photograph s- Panel Discussion with Mike Mezeull II, Joshua Cripps, Mandy Lea
  • 2:00 PM- 2:30 PM: Why I Love Chasing Extreme Weather – Joshua Cripps
  • 2:45 PM- 3:15 PM: The Wild Among Us – Melissa Groo
  • 3:15 PM- 3:45 PM: Nature’s Fury: The Allure of Tornado Alley – Mike Mezeul II

For more information on Nikon’s latest products including new the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S lens and Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit, please visit www.nikonusa.com. For more information about Nikon’s presence at CES 2019, including the livestreaming of presentations through the show, please visit www.nikonusa.com/live or www.facebook.com/nikonusa.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Loupedeck adds Photoshop CC 2019 support to its latest editing console

15 Dec

Loupedeck has announced its Loupedeck+ editing console now supports Photoshop CC 2019. The new support is the result of feedback from Loupedeck customers, according to the company, and joins the Adobe Premiere Pro CC compatibility released in September. With this new support, Photoshop CC 2019 users can edit their images using the software and Loupedeck+ console.

The updated Loupedeck+ editing console was launched in June, adding support for Capture One and Aurora HDR in addition to hardware improvements. With this latest compatibility update, Loupedeck+ can be used with multiple Adobe Creative Suite products, including Lightroom Classic CC, Premiere Pro CC, and Photoshop CC 2019.

The new Photoshop support provides editors with direct access to the photo software’s tools and functions, as well as layer control, configurable buttons for custom actions, smart filter access, and more. Loupedeck+’s hardware controls include buttons, dials, and wheels.

Loupedeck+ is available now for $ 249 USD.

Loupedeck+ Announces First Integration with Adobe Photoshop

The photo & video editing console continues to evolve based on community feedback, now even more adaptable to photographers’ needs

HELSINKI, Finland – December 14, 2018 – Loupedeck, the custom photo & video editing console built with an intuitive design that makes editing faster and more creative, has announced its first integration with Adobe Photoshop CC 2019. This compatibility further expands the product’s utility for editing in several Adobe Creative Suite applications, including: Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Adobe Premiere Pro CC.

After this year’s launch of the Loupedeck+, the decision to integrate with Photoshop is exclusively based on feedback from Loupedeck’s invested community, many of whom utilize the imaging and graphic design software in their editing workflow. The Loupedeck+ will permit more intuitive and faster editing, providing more accuracy on controlling Photoshop’s functions.

New Adobe Photoshop editing functionalities of the Loupedeck+ include:

  • Total flexibility with Photoshop CC, allowing image editors to configure Loupedeck+ to match their personal workflow
  • Intuitive features that make editing faster: swap between current and previous tools, reset blending or to fit image on screen by just a press of a button
  • Ability to focus on the image instead of navigating: minimize mouse pointing, list scrolling and target practicing with tiny icons
  • More direct access to tools, functions, layers and other Photoshop options to save time
  • Excellent layer control by moving, grouping, merging, adjusting opacity, fill, visibility or masking
  • Ability to run smart filter with Loupedeck+’s configurable buttons
  • Custom mode that gives even more possibilities for mapping different Photoshop functions on Loupedeck+
  • Ability to create your own actions and run them with Loupedeck+’s configurable buttons

“In our ongoing mission to make the editing processes of both professional and amateur photographers more intuitive and efficient, we continually work to integrate Loupedeck+ with the editing suites they utilize and cherish most in their workflows,” said Mikko Kesti, Founder and CEO of Loupedeck.

“Members of our dedicated user community emphasized their eagerness to use the console to edit with Photoshop and we listened. Following Loupedeck’s original integration with Adobe Lightroom and recent foray into video editing by way of Adobe Premiere Pro, this next stage of our partnership will continue to support photographers worldwide.”

In addition to its Adobe integrations, Loupedeck+ is compatible with Skylum Aurora HDR while future integrations with Skylum’s other products, including Skylum Luminar, are expected as well.

The device is available for purchase in the Loupedeck Online Store, B&H Photo and Amazon.com for $ 249. For more information visit www.loupedeck.com.

About Loupedeck

Loupedeck, the company behind the Loupedeck+, is the only editing console custom-built to improve the Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Premiere Pro CC, and Skylum Aurora HDR experience, with an intuitive design that makes editing faster and more creative. It allows both professional and amateur photographers to improve the ergonomics of editing, comfortably increasing output. Loupedeck’s hands-on and highly intuitive console minimizes the use the mouse and keyboard, and it works seamlessly with Apple and PC operating systems.

Headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, Loupedeck was founded in 2016 with a highly successful Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign that exceeded its original target by 488 percent. For more information, visit www.loupedeck.com.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Adobe Camera Raw update brings support for latest mobile devices, Nikon Z6 and more

12 Dec

Adobe has released the December update for its Camera Raw plug-in that allows you to edit and import Raw image files in Adobe applications, such as Photoshop, Lightroom Classic CC, Lightroom CC, Photoshop Elements, After Effects, and Bridge.

The list of newly supported cameras is heavily populated with smartphones and mobile devices. Apple latest iPhones XS, XS Max and XR are on the list as well as the company’s 2018 iPad Pro models. In addition you’ll now also be able to use Camera Raw with Raw files from Google’s Pixel 3 models, the Huawei P9 Lite, LG G7 ThinQ and the Samsung models Galaxy Note 9 and Galaxy S6/S6 Edge.

Camera models include Nikon’s Z6 mirrorless camera and D3500 DSLR as well the Leica M10-D and P, in addition to a bunch of compact cameras. For a full list of supported cameras head to the Adobe Support Website.

If you have an older version of an Adobe application that is not compatible with the latest version of Camera Raw you can still get Raw support for your camera through the free Adobe DNG converter.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Filmborn film camera app updated with new presets, iOS 12 support and bug fixes

08 Dec

Seattle-based Mastin Labs has released a large update for Filmborn, its camera app for iOS, adding additional film looks, free access to all current editing tools, support for iOS 12 and the three newest iPhone models and updates to the original film preset appearances.

Filmborn provides iPhone users with true-to-film presets that give images captured by the phone a realistic film appearance. Users are able to create up to three in-app camera kits containing customized specifications, as well as adjust exposure and white balance using gestures and curves using Filmborn’s Custom Curves tool. Other features includes last photo review, live film previews, and highlight clipping.

Version 1.4 update makes all of those tools free for users who purchase Filmborn. The app’s size and user interface have both been optimized, performance and responsiveness have been improved, and Mastin Labs has added haptic feedback for tool buttons when pressed in Camera view.

A number of bug fixes are included with this update, most notable being a fix for the iPhone X telephoto lens issue users previously experienced. Filmborn now offers a lens toggle under Camera view for dual-camera iPhone models, as well. The iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR are all now supported by the app.

The new preset packs available in Filmborn version 1.4.

In addition to the app update, Mastin Labs has also added three new film preset packs to Filmborn’s store: Kodak Everyday Original, Fujicolor Pushed, and Portra Pushed. Filmborn is available to purchase from the iOS App Store for $ 2.99. Additional preset packs are available as in-app purchases for $ 1.99.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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First look: Skylum Luminar 3 adds support for photo libraries, Digital Asset Manager to follow

07 Dec
Skylum Luminar 3’s layout.

Luminar’s library is set to open soon, but expect construction to continue through at least next year.

The long-awaited update to Skylum Software’s photo editor adds in-app photo library management, which the company says is the first step toward building out a complete Digital Asset Manager (DAM). Called ‘Luminar with Libraries’, this version more directly competes with applications that organize your photos, such as Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Lightroom CC. Luminar 3 arrives December 18, runs on macOS and Windows, and is a free update for owners of Luminar 2018.

This version more directly competes with applications that organize your photos, such as Adobe Lightroom

That’s mixed news for photographers contemplating a switch from Adobe’s applications, especially since Skylum has been teasing a Luminar DAM for well over a year (and just barely hitting their promise to ship it in 2018). Acknowledging the situation, Skylum is making further updates to Luminar free throughout 2019.

Luminar 3 is a free update for current owners of Luminar 2018. Owners of Aurora HDR, Photolemur, and legacy products can upgrade for $ 49 until December 18. New preorders cost $ 59 until that date, and $ 69 thereafter. There’s no subscription pricing model.

Library vs Digital Asset Manager

Here’s what Luminar with Libraries offers:

  • The Library component is integrated into the application, not existing as a separate app. It keeps track of all the images you throw at it in a browsable image gallery. Photos can be imported from cameras or memory cards, or you can point Luminar at existing folders on your hard disk. Unlike apps such as Apple Photos or Lightroom CC, Luminar doesn’t squirrel the images away to its own folder or container. It creates a central catalog file to track file locations and edits, but the originals remain wherever you put them in the first place.
  • In the Library, you can rate photos from zero to five stars, mark them as flagged or rejected, or apply any of five color labels.
  • You can create albums and populate them with photos.
  • A few shortcuts act like smart albums, revealing photos based on their capture dates, import dates, and recently edited dates.
  • In the Info panel, a limited set of EXIF data is shown, such as the camera, lens, focal length, ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation.
  • You can filter the library based on any of those attributes.
Filter images based on the criteria the Library offers.

Luminar with Libraries covers the basics of wrangling files and making them easily available for editing, but a full DAM provides a deeper level of interacting with one’s photos. Not included in this release is the ability to apply keywords or IPTC metadata, any kind of text-based search, a way to expose and take advantage of location data, or synchronization of images between computers or devices. The interface for importing photos relies on traditional Open dialogs instead of a way to preview the shots.

Editing Changes

Luminar 3 is still the same editor as it was before, with a few enhancements. Presets are now ‘Luminar Looks,’ which sounds like just a rebranding attempt, but actually rolls presets, LUTs, and some AI-enhanced operations into one-click actions.

“Luminar Looks” isn’t simply advantageous alliteration, but a merging of presets, LUTs, and some AI processing.

More significantly, the inclusion of the library into Luminar makes it possible to apply edits to one image and sync them among many other similar photos.

Sync edits from one image to several similar shots.

The Windows version includes improvements to Luminar’s color management to get consistent color among displays and devices, plus a host of bug fixes and performance boosts.

What’s Next

Skylum plans to release frequent updates throughout 2019 to add features and expand the library’s features. In its Luminar Roadmap, the company lists targets for the first half of the year that include:

  • Improved handling of Raw + JPEG image pairs (instead of treating each part separately).
  • The ability to create virtual copies of photos.
  • A Smart Search feature for locating shots “using keywords, EXIF information, and file names” (suggesting keyword support will be forthcoming).
  • IPTC core data editing and syncing among images.
  • Features that use AI technology “when editing skin on portraits, architecture, removing objects or simply applying masks on your images.”
  • A Lightroom migration tool.

Although Luminar 3 won’t arrive with a fully-formed DAM, as many photographers were hoping, incorporating the photo library into the application is still a big deal. Melding the library and the editing tools in the same environment streamlines the overall workflow. It allows you to work on a range of images quickly, without the hassle of opening and saving individual images (and deciding where the edited versions live). It’s a big reason why people stick with Lightroom or use alternatives such as Capture One, Alien Skin Exposure, or ON1 Photo Raw.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Phase One releases Capture One 12 with new interface, third-party plug-in support

30 Nov

Phase One has released Capture One 12, the latest edition of its image editing software. The updated product features a redesigned interface, revamped menu aligned between the Mac and Windows versions, linear and gradient masks via the new Parametric Masking Engine, luminosity masking and a new plug-in ecosystem.

Capture One 12’s new plug-in ecosystem supports third-party extensions and will soon have access to plug-ins for sharing and editing, as well as connecting the software to “specialized editing tools,” according to the company. Phase One’s Capture One Plugin SDK enables developers to create their own plug-ins for the software.

The updated product also adds new Fujifilm Film Simulation, lens, and camera support, expands AppleScript support for macOS users, and features a redesigned keyboard shortcut manager. Capture One 12 supports more than 500 camera models across all major brands.

Phase One is offering Capture One 12 with a perpetual license to new customers for $ 299 USD, but existing customers can purchase the update starting at $ 149 USD. Alternatively, the company offers Capture One Pro Sony 12 and Capture One Pro Fujifilm 12 for $ 219 USD. Buyers also have a subscription option starting at $ 15/month for Capture One Pro 12 and $ 14/month for the Fuji and Sony editions.

Redesigned and reimagined for the needs of today’s creatives, expanding for tomorrow’s solutions

COPENHAGEN, November 29, 2018: Phase One, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-end digital camera systems, today released Capture One 12, the next major milestone in the evolution of the industry’s premier RAW conversion, image editing, and asset management software. This release takes a top-down approach to streamline, modernizing, and improving the user interface to continue the program’s tradition of providing powerful features in a customizable, uniquely-configurable interface.

New masking tools and improved workflow features continue Capture One’s tradition of providing the most powerful image editing tools available, while a new plug-in ecosystem will allow third-party developers to connect their services and applications to Capture One.

Capture One 12 furthers Phase One’s commitment to providing unparalleled RAW editing, with unmatched tethering, color handling and precise editing on images captured with any of more than 500 different camera models.

Capture One 11.3 introduced support for all Fujifilm cameras and their unique sensors. Capture One 12 now enhances that support with the ability to correctly read and interpret Fujifilm’s legendary Film Simulations.

“Capture One has long been recognized as the industry standard for RAW image editing and image management,” says Jan Hyldebrandt-Larsen, VP Software Business at Phase One. “With this update, we focused on creative control — updating and improving the user interface, adding powerful new masking tools, and extending the Capture One ecosystem through plug-in support. These updates further our commitment to ensuring that Capture One continues to be the industry’s recognized leader in accuracy, performance, and customizability.”

Download Capture One 12, as well as find resources and tutorials at: www.captureone.com/12

New features and tools in Capture One 12

Powerful, refined interface

Capture One 12 introduces a newly re-designed, contemporary interface, designed to make Capture One easier to use during long editing sessions and to make discovery, experimentation, and customizability easier than ever. New iconography better conveys tool functionality, and the new slider design, the spacing of the tools, and font size increase improves both the look and the usability of the program.

The result is a new environment that feels more welcoming for new users while being more customizable for power-users.

Revamped menu system

Every menu item in Capture One 12 has been evaluated, categorized, and organized according to its logical function and grouped along with associated tasks, which makes it easier to find the desired controls and settings, and brings the Mac and Windows menu options into alignment.

Luminosity masking

One of a trio of new masking tools, Luma Range allows users to quickly create masks based on the brightness of pixels in an image and is the most powerful luminance masking tool of its kind.

This masking technique is particularly powerful in landscapes and high-key portraits, as it allows for nearly-instantaneous masks in complex scenes based on brightness—eliminating the need to tediously paint complex masks. Once a luminance range is created and adjusted using the precision mask-adjustment tools, nearly any editing tool can be applied to the mask.

The masks created with the Luma Range tool are dynamic and can easily be tweaked and modified at any point in the workflow. Unlike a hand-drawn mask, Luma Range adjustments can be applied from one image to another, and the effect will be based on the luminance of each image. This functionality is a huge time-saver as it eliminates the need to create precision masks for each frame in a shoot.

The new Luma Range selection masks open up an incredible range of editing possibilities, from selective noise reduction to precise color grading.

Linear Gradient Mask

Capture One 12 takes gradient masks to the next level, allowing for editable, moveable, rotatable—and best of all—asymmetric gradient masks. Using a brand-new Parametric Masking Engine, Capture One allows for adjustments in the size, shape, and symmetry of the masks with simple mouse clicks and key presses, truly redefining the possibilities of linear gradients in Capture One. Rotate, feather and adjust a mask with a precision never before possible.

Radial Gradient Mask

The new Radial Gradient mask tool enables quick, flexible radial masks, useful for vignette and other adjustments with a desired falloff effect. Using the same Parametric Masking Engine as the Linear Gradient mask tool, radial masks can be adjusted, rotated and moved after creation for extreme control over desired effects.

Redesigned Keyboard Shortcut manager

Capture One is known for its ability to custom-assign and custom-configure virtually every task to a keyboard shortcut. With more than 500 individually-assignable and customizable commands, it’s essential to be able to find the exact shortcut, without having to hunt through hundreds of choices.

Users can now search by the specific menu command, or by the assigned keyboard shortcut, making it easy to find and manage shortcuts. To unify the interface between the Mac and Windows versions the new menu system has been moved to the same location on both platforms, making it easier for workgroups to stay in sync.

New plug-in ecosystem

To address the needs of photographers and creatives looking to share, edit and collaborate on their images, the new Capture One plug-in ecosystem will allow for powerful third-party extensions. The new Capture One SDK will allow any developer to create custom solutions to expand Capture One, and to transform Capture One into an open ecosystem.

Users of Capture One will be able to extend the platform with the upcoming addition of plug-ins that allow for sharing, editing, and that can connect Capture One to a variety of specialized editing tools.

For developers, the Capture One Plugin SDK—available as a free download—will provide access to the broad base of passionate professional and enthusiast photographers that use Capture One. Developers are now able to create solutions that leverage the image-editing and organizational prowess of Capture One, and the added capabilities of third-party resources.

The initial Capture One Plugin SDK allows for plugin development, and can be leveraged for common tasks like sharing, sending files to external editors, and allowing images to be opened in other applications, and more.

Fujifilm Film Simulation support

Fujifilm X-Series and GFX-series cameras feature Film Simulations, which are in-camera tonal adjustments that faithfully reproduce the color and tonality of classic Fujifilm photographic films. Sixteen Film Simulations are available, ranging from color stocks like Provia and Velvia to black and white film like Acros. These simulations give Fujifilm users the ability to digitally capture images with the feel of beloved photographic films.

Thanks to the collaboration between Capture One and Fujifilm, photographer’s using Fujifilm’s renowned X-Series and GFX-series cameras will be able to edit photos complete with Fujifilm Film Simulations. These in-camera settings have been faithfully reproduced in Capture One, to provide an identical experience when working with files, resulting in images that appear the same as if the Film Simulation picture profiles were applied in-camera.

Extended AppleScript support

Users of Capture One on Mac OS can take advantage of extended AppleScript support for automation and workflow streamlining. More than a dozen of Capture One 12’s areas and properties can now be directly modified with AppleScript, adding to the existing, robust AppleScript support in previous versions of Capture One.

New camera and lens support

Capture One provides users with the most accurate and powerful image editing available, and the wide-ranging support of cameras and lenses is a hallmark of the software. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, Capture One continually evolves to handle the newest cameras and lenses.

Phase One carefully evaluates and interprets each camera’s RAW formats, allowing Capture One to present images with the utmost fidelity, often bringing out nuances that other programs can’t even perceive.

In addition to the RAW support for more than 500 cameras, Capture One also provides profiling and image correction support for more than 500 lenses. Like with the RAW file interpretation, Phase One carefully measures the optical characteristics of each supported lens and builds correction algorithms that compensate for the various optical imperfections of various designs. As a result, Capture One can correct for numerous common optical issues such as vignette, and chromatic aberration as needed for each of the supported lenses.

New camera support:

  • Nikon Z7
  • Nikon Z6
  • Fujifilm GFX 50R
  • Canon EOS R
  • Canon EOS M50

For a complete list of supported cameras, please go to: www.phaseone.com/supported-cameras

Availability and pricing

Capture One is available in several versions. Capture One Pro 12 supports more than 500 cameras from all major camera brands, while Capture One Pro Sony 12 and Capture One Pro Fujifilm 12 supports cameras from those brands, respectively.

Phase One is committed to providing customers a choice when it comes to how they acquire their software, so Capture One Pro 12 is available for purchase, or via subscription. The perpetual license for Capture One Pro 12 is available for $ 299, with upgrade pricing from previous versions starting at $ 149. Capture One Pro Sony and Capture One Pro Fujifilm are available for $ 219

For those that prefer subscription models, Capture One Pro 12 is available for plans as low as $ 15 per month, and Capture One Pro Sony and Capture One Pro Fujifilm subscription plans start at $ 14 a month.

For a complete list of all products and licensing options, please visit: www.phaseone.com/store to learn more.

A 30-day fully-featured free trial of Capture One 12 is available. Download the trial here: www.captureone.com/download

Via: PDN

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon France says the Z-mount can theoretically support an F0.65 autofocus lens

24 Nov

In an interview with French photography blog Mizuwari, Nicolas Gillet, director of marketing and communication for Nikon France, revealed a number of interesting tidbits regarding Nikon’s new Z-mount and the new opportunities it affords Nikon’s optical engineers.

According to Gillet in the transcribed interview, Nikon optical engineers have calculated that the Nikon Z-mount is theoretically capable of supporting autofocus lenses with apertures as large as F0.65.

This comes as a stark contrast to the physical F1.4 limitation of the Nikon F-mount and the F1.2 limitation of Canon’s EF-mount.

Gillet also explains the Noct-Nikkor 56mm F0.95 is a testament to what glass Nikon could, in theory, create for its new full-frame mirrorless mount, but makes no mention of future lenses not already on Nikon’s lens roadmap it unveiled alongside the Nikon Z7 and Z6 launch event.

The interview is available in full on Mizuwari (translated).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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