RSS
 

Posts Tagged ‘Video’

Canon launches 1/1.8-inch sensor for video recording in extreme low light

27 Aug

Canon has announced a new CMOS image sensor that is designed to perform in extreme low light conditions. The LI7050’s is a sensor of the 1/1.8-inch variant which means it has the same size as many image sensors that can be found in smartphone cameras. However, this is not the new sensor’s intended use.

Instead it’s meant to be used for industrial applications that require extreme low light capabilities. For example, it could record low light video with realistic color and good detail in security cameras that are monitoring public areas, transport infrastructure or manufacturing facilities. Thanks to its compact dimensions it could also help improve image quality in underwater drones or wearable cameras for security personnel that operates in dark environments.

Canon says in its press release: ‘Conventional nighttime monitoring employs infrared cameras and records video in monochrome. However, network cameras equipped with the LI7050 can capture video at night in such locations as public facilities, roads or transport networks, thereby helping to identify details including the color of vehicles or subjects’ clothing.’

Thanks to the ‘architecture’ of its 4.1 µm pixels the sensor is capable of recording Full-HD color video in near darkness – light levels as low as 0.08 lux – and also comes with an HDR mode that dramatically expands the dynamic range. When recording in this mode the sensor can capture scenes with extremely high contrast (light levels between 0.08 lux and 80,000 lux) while avoiding clipping in both highlight and shadow areas of the frame, achieving a dynamic range of 120dB (approximately 20EV).

HDR mode merges a bright and a dark exposure into one frame and is only available at 30 frames per second. If you need faster frame rates of 60 frames per second the sensor can still avoid clipping anywhere between 0.08 and 500 lux and offers a dynamic range of 75dB (approximately 12.5 EV).

Those are impressive numbers and they are backed up by the low light footage in Canon’s sample clips which does not only have very good exposure but also maintains excellent detail in the bright illuminated areas of the frame, something that a lot of cameras struggle with.

Even though the sensor is marketed as a security and surveillance product there could be interesting applications in consumer imaging as well. Modern smartphones come with multi-camera arrays for different focal length already. Why not add a dedicated low light video camera?

Sample shipments of the LI7050 have started in August and official sales will be launched in late October. We’ll probably see sometime next year if the new sensor will be confined to its industry niche or possibly make it out to the wider consumer imaging market.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Canon launches 1/1.8-inch sensor for video recording in extreme low light

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Video: Scientists records insects taking flight at 3,200fps

23 Aug

Dr. Adrian Smith, an Assistant Professor at North Carolina State, has shared an incredible slow-motion video on his YouTube channel Ant Lab that showcases various insects taking off for flight at 3,200 frames per second (fps) with a Phantom Miro LC321s.

To keep the video interesting, Smith opted to record ‘the weird stuff.’ In other words, rather than bees, house flies and more common insects, Smith chose less-photographed bugs. Specifically, the video covers (in order): plume moth, firefly, painted lichen moth, leafroller moth, rosy maple moth, common stonefly, mayflies, fishflies, aphid, scorpionfly and lacewing.

In addition to the incredible visuals throughout the eight-and-a-half minute video, Smith also shares facts about insect flight and discusses the different flying mechanisms different insects use. Smith also shared the following tweet showing off what gear he used to capture this video.

You can find more insect videos from Smith on his Ant Lab YouTube channel and follow him on Twitter.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Video: Scientists records insects taking flight at 3,200fps

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Video: How to capture a 0.1MP portrait with a Game Boy Camera and 70-200mm lens

21 Aug

The Game Boy Camera was never meant to be a serious piece of photographic equipment, so what happens when you pair the Nintendo Game Boy peripheral with a serious piece of glass to take some portraits? Just ask Sam McKenzie, of YouTube channel 3D Printor, who took it upon himself to adapt a Tamron 70–200mm zoom lens to the 0.1MP Game Boy Camera.

Detailed in the above video, McKenzie 3D-printed an adapter he came across on Thingiverse and attached it to the front of the Game Boy Camera. With the adapter and lens in place, he went out for an ultra-low-resolution portrait shoot to see what the Frankenstein’d camera was capable of.

The modded Game Boy Camera mounted to a Manfrotto Pixi tripod next to a print of the 0.1MP portrait.

While capturing the image was simple enough, getting it off the Game Boy and turned into a canvas print was less intuitive. This process wasn’t featured in a video, but in an email sent to DPReview, McKenzie said:

‘The Super Game Boy for SNES allows you to play Game Boy games on your TV […] so I used an old VHS to DVD making software and USB capture card I had from the early days of DVD and thankfully it worked with the SNES.’

Once he had the image, he ordered a small canvas print and within the week it was at his front door.

The canvas print, in all its pixellated glory.

You can find more of McKenzie’s 3D printing projects on his YouTube channel.

Image credits: Photos by Sam McKenzie, used with permission.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Video: How to capture a 0.1MP portrait with a Game Boy Camera and 70-200mm lens

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Video: How to thoroughly clean and disinfect your camera

18 Aug

Olympus Europe has partnered with photographer Fernando Marmolejo to share an in-depth guide on how to clean and disinfect both non-weather-sealed and weather-sealed camera systems. While this is clearly an advertisement of sorts for Olympus camera systems, it’s also an insightful guide on how you can keep your gear as clean as possible, especially during a global pandemic.

The nearly eight-minute-long video is entirely in Spanish, so you’ll want to turn on translated subtitles if you don’t speak the language. Language barriers aside though, this is one of the most in-depth guides on cleaning cameras we’ve come across.

The thought of using actual soap and water on a camera — even a weather-sealed camera — can be daunting, but Marmolejo’s guide breaks down how you can do just that without breaking your gear. And, as helpful and sincere as the guide is, there’s also a bit of humor splashed in throughout the guide.

It’s worth noting that even when following this guide, there is a risk for damage and the possibility you’ll void your camera’s warranty, so proceed with extreme caution, regardless of how weather-sealed your camera is.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Video: How to thoroughly clean and disinfect your camera

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Fujifilm confuses users by releasing a promo video for its 8-year-old 35mm F1.4 R lens

05 Aug

The saying goes, ‘better late than never,’ but Fujifilm might be pushing the boundaries of the phrase with its new promotional video.

It’s been eight years since Fujifilm released its XF 35mm F1.4 R lens, but a new promo video showcasing the features of the lens has popped up on the Fujifilm X Series YouTube channel. Understandably, this new promo video has left some Fujifilm users confused and even disappointed, as an upgraded version of this lens is high on the request list of many Fujifilm users.

Unfortunately, this new four-minute video, which showcases numerous Fujifilm X-Photographers talking about the lens, isn’t a teaser for a new, upgraded ‘Mark II’ version or anything of the sort. It’s simply a self-described ‘ode’ to ‘one of the original X mount lenses [that] has captured countless numbers of precious moments over the years.’

The timing is curious, as is ‘The Original’ nomenclature, but the video links directly to a landing page for the XF 35mm F1.4 R, suggesting Fujifilm is still working hard to promote one of the first XF lenses.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Fujifilm confuses users by releasing a promo video for its 8-year-old 35mm F1.4 R lens

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Sony’s new a7S III brings 4K/120p video capture, extended shooting and improved AF

30 Jul

As expected, Sony has released the a7S III, its third-generation video-focused full-frame mirrorless camera. It includes a new 12MP BSI-CMOS sensor, the latest ‘Bionz XR’ processor, improved autofocus, an ultra-high resolution EVF and the ability to capture 4K/120p video.

In addition, Sony claims that the a7s III can also record up to ‘at least’ one hour of continuous 4K/60p footage. The company says that this was made possible be redesigning the heat dissipation system in the camera: no fan necessary.

The combination of the new sensor and processor allow for a native ISO range of 80-102400, which can expand to 40-409600, and the (claimed) ability to capture 15 stops of dynamic range. Sony says that the sensor reads out twice as fast as on the a7S II, which considerably reduces rolling shutter. The more-responsive autofocus system has 759 on-sensor PDAF points and offers person, eye and animal AF. Sony says that color reproduction has been noticeably improved, as well. The a7S III also have the distinction of being the first consumer camera to support the new CFexpress Type ‘A’ media.

The a7S III’s physical design is much like that of the a7R IV (including build quality and IBIS), with a few notable exceptions. The electronic viewfinder has the higher resolution we’ve seen yet, with 9.44 million dots. It’s also giant, with a magnification of 0.91x. This is Sony’s first Alpha-series camera with a fully articulating LCD, and nearly everything can be operated by touch (finally). The menu system has been refined and is easier to navigate. The camera has a full-size HDMI port along with headphone and mic sockets, dual-band Wi-Fi and support for USB Power Delivery. It has twin dual-format memory card slots, both of which can handle an SD or CFexpress Type A card.

There are too many video features to list here (our initial review has all the details), but the highlights include 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, your choice of H.264 or H.265 codecs, 16-bit Raw output at up to 60p, and support for S-Log2/3 and HLG. The a7S III does not support DCI or Super 35 capture.

The a7S III will be available in late September for $ 3499.

Read our initial review

Press Release

Highly Anticipated Sony Alpha 7S III Combines Supreme Imaging Performance with Classic “S” Series Sensitivity

New Alpha 7S III Empowers Creators with 4K 120P[i] Video, 10-bit 4:2:2 Recording, 15+ Stop Dynamic Range[ii], Improved AF Performance and More

  • Newly developed BIONZ XR™ image processing engine with eight times more processing power[iii] and a brand new 12.1-megapixel (, effective) back-illuminated full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor, significantly reduced rolling shutter effect[iv]
  • Ultra-high sensitivity with ISO range expandable from 40 – 409,600[v], and improved image quality by approximately 1 stop noise reduction[iv] in the middle and high sensitivity ranges
  • Video recording capabilities include 4K 120p[i], 10 bit 4:2:2 color depth, All-Intra recording, XAVC HS format with H.265 codec and more
  • 15+ stop dynamic range for movies[ii]
  • 4K 60p 16-bit RAW video HDMI output for the first time in the Alpha™ series
  • Fast Hybrid AF system with 759 point phase-detection[vi] AF sensors covering 92% of image sensor
  • Enhanced Real-time Eye AF for movie recording[vii] and still image recording
  • New heat dissipating mechanism and dual slot relay recording enables over one-hour long 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 movie shooting[viii]??
  • 5-axis optical in-body image stabilization supports handheld movie shooting, with added Active Mode [ix] to support especially difficult handheld movie shooting
  • World’s brightest[x] and largest[x] new 0.64-type 9.44 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
  • Side Opening variable angle LCD screen enhances shooting flexibility
  • Completely redesigned menu system with touch screen interface and touch operation
  • High-speed continuous still image shooting at up to 10fps[xi] for more than 1,000 consecutive uncompressed RAW images[xii] with full AF / AE tracking
  • Dual CFexpress Type A card slots that enable high speed data processing while keeping the compact size

SAN DIEGO – July 28, 2020 –Today, Sony Electronics Inc. announced the long-awaited addition to its acclaimed Alpha 7S full-frame mirrorless camera series? — the Alpha 7S III (model ILCE-7SM3).

Featuring a brand new 12.1MP (approx., effective) back-illuminated full-frame image sensor with ultra-high sensitivity and 15+ stop wide dynamic range[ii], a host of impressive video recording capabilities including 4K 120p[i] and 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth, a new heat dissipating mechanism, dual slot relay recording enabling over one-hour of 4K 60p movie shooting[viii], a new autofocus system, and touch screen interface and side flip LCD screen, the new Alpha 7S III will become the ultimate creative tool for video professionals and all types of hybrid still/video shooters.

“The Alpha 7S III is the ultimate representation of Sony’s passion to solve our customers’ pain points,”, said Neal Manowitz, deputy president for Imaging Products and Solutions Americas at Sony Electronics. “We are always listening to our customers’ feedback, pushing hard to deliver innovation that goes far beyond their expectations. There is no better example than this new camera. Combining classic S series sensitivity with a feature set, performance level and user experience that is simply unmatched in the market today — at any price level — the Alpha 7S III opens up a new world of possibilities for today’s creators.”

The system architecture for the new Alpha 7S III has been completely redesigned to deliver exceptional video and still shooting performance. The new 35mm full-frame 12.1MP (approx., effective) back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor reduces rolling shutter by up to three times[iv] and utilizes a variety of advanced light-gathering techniques to ensure high-sensitivity with low noise, allowing users to shoot in low-light situations without needing large-scale lighting setups. In addition to improved image quality, this new image sensor includes a focal plane phase-detection AF system for the first time in an S-series camera.

To compliment the new sensor, the Alpha 7S III also includes a new BIONZ XR™ image processing engine that provides up to eight times more processing power[iii], minimizes processing latency, and enables many of the hallmark still and imaging features of the camera. The new system also includes the world’s brightest[x] and largest[x] 9.44 million-dot (approx.) OLED electronic eye-level viewfinder and is the world’s first camera[x] with dual CFexpress Type A card slots, enabling high-speed data transfer in a compact size.

Professional Video Workflow Solutions

The Alpha 7S III offers in-camera 4K recording up to 120 frames per secondi, 10-bit depth and 4:2:2 color sampling, producing stunning video recording. The new camera offers a more flexible and efficient post-production workflow with a variety of advanced movie recording modes such as All-Intra[xiii] and MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 coding (XAVC HS™)[xiv]. The Alpha 7S III makes it easy to integrate video recordings with other professional camcorders by providing three color gamut settings S-Gamut, S-Gamut3, and S-Gamut3.Cine, allowing users to easily match footage shot on the Alpha 7S III with footage shot on the professional camcorders simplifying multi-camera post-production workflow. In addition to S-Log3 gamma curves, the Alpha 7S III supports an HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) picture profile with minimum post-production. The Alpha 7S III also allows up to 4K 60p 16-bit RAW output[xv] to an external recorder via HDMI Type-A[xvi] connector, offering additional post-production flexibility.

Improved Image Quality

The new CMOS image sensor and BIONZ XR™ image processing engine in the Alpha 7S III delivers legendary S-series sensitivity with significantly enhanced color reproduction and texture renderings for improved overall image quality. The base ISO has been lowered to 80, resulting in a normal range of 80-102,400 (expandable to 80-409,600 for video and 40-409,600 for stills) to provide more flexible ISO plus wide dynamic range with low noise at all settings. It offers improved image quality by approximately 1 stop of noise reduction[iv] in the middle and high sensitivity ranges.

The colors and textures of foliage, human skin, and more are ideally and consistently reproduced without dependence on light sources. Gradation rendering has also been refined for better looking skin tones and highlight roll-off in portraits. It also improves AWB (Auto White Balance) performance with a new “Visible light + IR Sensor” that helps to achieve more precise white balance under artificial lighting, including fluorescent and LED lights.

Versatile Operability

Advanced Autofocus Performance for Hybrid use

For the first time in an Alpha 7S series camera, the Alpha 7S III offers Fast Hybrid AF by combining phase-detection and contrast-detection AF, giving it the ability to track subjects over a wide area with outstanding speed, precision and smoothness, even when using a narrow depth of field. Fine focus expression is possible with Sony’s E-mount lenses.

For environments with a lot of movement, Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF are available to maintain constant focus on the intended subject. Sony’s advanced Real-time Eye AF improves detection performance by 30% over the previous system[iii], thanks to the new image processing engine. It ensures accurate, reliable detection, even when the subject’s face looks away. Real-time Tracking is initiated simply by touching the subject on the screen. Real-time Eye AF is automatically initiated when an eye is detected.

Flexible Autofocus Settings for Movie Shooting

Based on customer feedback, the camera includes several AF features for professional users including AF Transition Speed in seven settings, to easily create rack-focus transitions, and five AF Subject Shift Sensitivity settings, which allows the user to customize how easily AF will switch or stay with the locked-on subject. Touch Tracking allows user to not only initiate Real-time Tracking, but also compose and shoot while using a gimbal or while shooting solo. It’s now possible to Touch Focus during manual focus mode on the LCD screen or remotely from the Imaging Edge Mobile application[xvii].

New Heat-dissipating Structure

The Alpha 7S III’s design has been updated to ensure effective heat dissipation and minimizes overheating — even during extended continuous recording sessions at 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 video lasting an hour or more[viii]. A newly developed unique heat dissipating structure keeps the image sensor and image processing engine temperatures within their normal operating ranges, preventing overheating while maintaining compact body dimensions. The new heat-dissipating structure requires no fan or cabinet vents allowing Alpha 7S III to maintain dust and moisture resistance[xviii].

Movie Assist Functions

For video on-the-go, the Alpha 7S III is the first Alpha series camera to include Active Modeix with 5-axis optical in-body image stabilization to support especially difficult handheld movie shooting. It is also the first Alpha series E-mount body to feature a side-opening vari-angle rear screen, perfect for gimbal-mounted shots, complicated angles, handheld operation and more. The screen rotates sideways, up and down, and features a 3.0 type 1.44 million-dot (approx.) touch panel LCD monitor, for optimal visibility even in bright outdoor environments.

In addition, the Alpha 7S III provides a selection of new Creative Look with 10 presets that can be used for both photo and video shoots, making it easy to create interesting moods right in the camera to be used as is or customized by the user.

A digital audio interface has been added to the camera’s Multi Interface (MI) Shoe for clearer audio recordings from a compatible Sony external microphone. Used with Sony’s XLR-K3M XLR Adaptor Kit, the Alpha 7S III provides 4-channel 24-bit digital audio recording capability in an Alpha series camera for the first time. Like other MI shoe accessories, no cables or batteries are required, providing unrestrained freedom for Alpha system moviemaking.

Additional movie assist functions include a redesigned monitor display with a bold, clearly visible red frame that makes it clear when recording is in progress even when mounted on a rig or gimbal, custom zoom settings, adjustable white balance while recording, display rotation, interval recording, still extraction from movies and more.

Outstanding Still Image Photography

The Alpha 7S III includes a fast Hybrid AF system with 759 phase-detection AF points covering 92% of the image sensor. The camera can also achieve high AF precision to accurately and reliably focus in light down to EV-6[xix], where subjects are difficult to see clearly even with the naked eye. Users can continuously shoot more than 1,000 uncompressed RAW[xii] images at up to 10fps, or up to 8fps in live view mode, with either the mechanical or electronic shutter.

The Alpha 7S III also includes the world’s first[x] 9.44 million-dot (approx.), 0.64 type Quad-XGA electronic viewfinder with a high-definition OLED display and refined. The Alpha 7S III viewfinder offers a 0.90x viewfinder magnification[xx], 41° diagonal field of view, 25mm high eyepoint for clear, low-distortion corner to corner viewing. It is also dust, fog and moisture resistant[xviii], extremely responsive, and has switchable modes for different subject types. Every aspect of the Alpha 7S III viewfinder has been designed and refined for a professional workflow.

For the first time in one of Sony’s digital cameras, the Alpha 7S III includes HEIF (High Efficiency Image File Format) allowing for smooth 10-bit gradations and advanced compression technology to maintain image quality while significantly reducing file size and saving storage space. HEIF stills shot in this mode can be played back on a compatible Sony HDR (HLG) TV via a direct HDMI Type-A connection from the Alpha 7S III, delivering true-to-life dynamic range[xxi].

Versatile Design Made for the Pros

CFexpress Type A for High-speed Data Transfer

In another world’s firstx, the Alpha 7S III features two CFexpress Type A compatible media slots which also support UHS-I and UHS-II SDXC/SDHC cards, enabling high write-and-read speeds while keeping the camera body compact in size. CFexpress Type A cards are ideally suited to high-speed continuous RAW still image shooting as well as 4K 120pi movie recording at high bit rates[xxii], providing next-generation write speeds that can quickly clear the buffers of cameras that generate high volumes of still image and movie data. High-speed data transfer to a PC is possible at about 1.7 times faster[xxiii] than that of SD card. The dual slots can be set to relay mode for extended continuous recording of even the highest bit rate data as well as simultaneous recording and sort by format type recording.

Revised Menu System with Enhanced Touch Screen

The Alpha 7S III also features a revised menu structure for easier navigation and touch-responsive menu operation for faster, more intuitive control. For creators who shoot both stills and movies, separate settings can now be stored for stills and movie shooting for quick transition between the two.

High Reliability Gives Creators New Freedom

Professional users need more than just refined features and performance. They also need the reliability and durability demanded of any professional tool. The Alpha 7S III features a redesigned grip for greater comfort and a secure hold, an improved dust removal feature, plus dust and moisture resistance[xviii] that maximizes reliability in challenging environments. It includes a durable, reliable HDMI Type-A connector, and is the first Alpha series camera to support USB PD (Power Delivery), allowing higher power to be supplied from an external source so that users can continue to record for extended periods with minimal internal battery usage.

Advanced Connectivity for Professional Working Environments

The Alpha 7S III has been designed and configured to support photo and video journalists and sports shooters who need to deliver stills or movies as quickly as possible with several advanced connectivity options. The camera supports 5GHz[xxiv]/2.4GHz wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11ac) and offers MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output) to improve communication quality by using multiple antennas, doubling in speed when compared to the Alpha7R IV. It also carries new USB tethering support[xxv]. When connected to a 5G (5th generation technology standard for cellular networks) compatible device via USB cable, it is possible to use 5G network for fast and stable FTP file transfer[xxvi]. USB to high-speed wired LAN connectivity[xxvii] also offers stable and fast FTP transfer for both movies and stills. A USB Type-C™ connector that supports fast SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps (USB 3.2) data transfer is provided, enabling high-speed PC Remote (tethered) data transfer available for smooth handling of large image files.

Pricing and Availability

The new Alpha 7S III Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Camera will be available in September 2020 for approximately $ 3,499.99 USD and $ 4,799.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new camera and Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony ? – Alpha.

For detailed coverage on the new product on Alpha Universe, please visit this LINK.

The new content will also be posted directly at the Sony Photo Gallery.

For detailed product information, please visit:

  • (US) – ILCE-7SM3
  • (CA) – ILCE-7SM3

[i] 10% of view cropped

[ii] S-Log3 movies, Sony internal tests

[iii] When compared to the BIONZ X™ image processor

[iv] When compared to Alpha7S II

[v] 40 to 409,600 for stills and 80 to 409,600 for movies. Sony test conditions

[vi] When shooting full-frame still images. The number of AF points used depends on the shooting mode.

[vii] This function does not track animal eyes

[viii] Sony test conditions. XAVC S-I 10-bit 4:2:2, 25 deg C (ambient, camera when recording started), Auto Power Off Temperature: High. The value will vary depending on the shooting conditions. Movie shooting past an hour will continue until battery ends.

[ix] In active mode, the shooting angle of view is slightly narrowed. If the focal length is 200 mm or more, it is recommended to set to standard

[x] As of July 2020, Sony survey. Among full-frame mirrorless cameras

[xi] Up to 10fps in continuous “Hi+” mode, and up to 8fps in continuous “Hi” mode Maximum fps will depend on camera settings

[xii] Requires CFexpress Type A memory card

[xiii] When XAVC S-I 4K or HD is selected via the file format menu

[xiv] Requires compatible memory card

[xv] Atomos Ninja V HDR monitor-recorder support planned. As of July 2020

[xvi] Sony’s Premium High Speed HDMI Cable DLC-HX10 recommended

[xvii] Imaging Edge Mobile Ver. 7.4 or later required

[xviii] Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof

[xix] ISO 100 equivalent, F2.0 lens, AF-S mode

[xx] 50mm lens, infinity, -1m-1 diopter

[xxi] Desktop application “HEIF Converter” for displaying and editing HEIF format is planned to launch in September 2020

[xxii] 4:2:2 10-bit All-I, when recording slow motion

[xxiii] Sony test conditions.

[xxiv] 5 GHz communication may be restricted in some countries and regions

[xxv] Power Delivery supported smartphone is required

[xxvi] Does not guarantee connection with all smartphone. FTP file transfer by USB tethering that utilizes 4G network is also possible

[xxvii] A compatible USB-Ethernet adapter is required

Sony a7S III specifications

Price
MSRP $ 3499 (body only)
Body type
Body type SLR-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 4240 x 2832
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 12 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 13 megapixels
Sensor size Full frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm)
Sensor type BSI-CMOS
Processor Bionz XR
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB, BT.2020
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 80-102400 (expands to 40-409600)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 40
Boosted ISO (maximum) 409600
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes 5-axis
CIPA image stabilization rating 5.5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Extra fine, fine, normal
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.32)
  • HEIF
  • Raw (ARW 4.0)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 759
Lens mount Sony E
Focal length multiplier 1×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 1,440,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.91×
Viewfinder resolution 9,440,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (Multi-interface shoe)
Flash X sync speed 1/250 sec
Drive modes
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Self-timer
  • Bracketing (AE/WB/DRO)
Continuous drive 10.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Highlight-weighted
  • Average
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±5 (3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-1, H.264, H.265
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 120p / 280 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 100p / 280 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 140 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 140 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types Dual SD/CFexpress Type A slots
Connectivity
USB USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes (USB PD supported)
HDMI Yes (Standard)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11ac (dual band) + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (wireless or smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description NP-FZ100 lithium-ion battery charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 600
Weight (inc. batteries) 699 g (1.54 lb / 24.66 oz)
Dimensions 129 x 97 x 81 mm (5.08 x 3.82 x 3.19″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Sony’s new a7S III brings 4K/120p video capture, extended shooting and improved AF

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Raw video output for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H now available

28 Jul

Panasonic has announced firmware version 2.1 for the Lumix DC-S1H. Originally slated for a May launch, this firmware adds support for Raw video output to Atomos Ninja V external recorders, which in turn can save the footage as ProRes Raw. The maximum output resolutions are 5.9K/29.97p from the full sensor region and 4K/59.94p from a Super 35 crop. A LUT will be made available for the Ninja V to match V-Log and V-Gamut on the S1H and other Panasonic video cameras.

In addition to Raw export, the firmware update also gives the S1H the ability to capture 3.5K anamorphic from a Super 35 4:3 region.

The update is available free of charge and can be downloaded from Panasonic’s website.

Panasonic Releases Firmware Version 2.1 for LUMIX S1H Supporting RAW Video Data Output

Newark, NJ (July 28, 2020) – Panasonic is pleased to announce the LUMIX S1H firmware update program Version 2.1 that supports RAW video data output. Working together with Atomos, a global company that creates video equipment for professional film creators, the new firmware enables the output of maximum 5.9K/29.97p and 59.94p 4K* RAW video data over HDMI to save it as Apple ProRes RAW on the Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR monitor-recorder. In addition, it further complies with 3.5K Anamorphic 4:3. Panasonic commits to provide innovative solutions for professional film creation by enabling all S1H users to receive this firmware free of charge.

The program will be available at LUMIX Global Customer Support website https://av.jpn.support.panasonic.com/support/global/cs/dsc/ at 2:00 A.M.EDT on July 28, 2020.

* 4128×2176(17:9), announced as “C4K” at IBC2019. Corresponding to C4K (4096×2160) as defined by Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI).

LUMIX S1H Firmware Version 2.1

RAW video data output over HDMI

  • [5.9K] / [4K] / [Anamorphic (4:3) 3.5K] 12-bit RAW video data can be output over HDMI.

The Apple ProRes RAW can be recorded on Atomos Ninja V.[1]

Area

Resolution

Frame Rate

Aspect

HDMI Output

Full-Frame

5.9K (5888×3312)

29.97p/25p/23.98p

16:9

12-bit

Super 35mm

4K (4128×2176)

59.94p/50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p

17:9

12-bit

Super 35mm Anamorphic

3.5K (3536×2656)

50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p

4:3

12-bit
  • V-Log or Rec.709 is selectable on Live View monitor during RAW output.
  • Shooting assist functions including WFM (Wave Form Monitor), Vector Scope, Luminance Spot Meter, Zebra Pattern can be used during RAW output.
  • A LUT (Lookup table) exclusively designed for RAW video recorded on NINJA V is available on the following customer support website to make the same color grading as V-Log/V-Gamut[2]. It is easy to match colors between the footages recorded with Panasonic Varicam, EVA1 and GH5 series cameras to combine them. https://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/download/lut/s1h_raw_lut/index.html

[1] Selectable recording mode depends on the version of ATOMOS NINJA V.
All functions may not be available depending on the situation.

[2] Software that supports Apple ProRes RAW is required to edit RAW video recorded with NINJA V.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Raw video output for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H now available

Posted in Uncategorized

 

A 40-minute video tour through the history of photography

26 Jul

Chemist, educator and photography enthusiast Andrew Szydlo recently gave an excellent video tour through the history of photography for Britain’s Royal Institution. While some of the topics may be well-worn territory for many of our readers, there should still be the opportunity to learn. Of course, if you’re a beginner, it’s a great watch for all 40-plus minutes.

With his own vintage camera collection on display, Szydlo takes us back in time to the first photographs and cameras. To understand how people tried to record their history and the world around them, we must first discuss the concept of the pinhole camera and the camera obscura effect.

Szydlo then discusses the first photographs and cameras, talks about the importance of famed photographer Henri Cartier Bresson, the advent of SLR cameras and talks about different interesting cameras in his collection. The final 10 or so minutes of the video are dedicated to Szydlo demonstrating his chemical expertise by making a photogram.

If you would like to watch Szydlo discuss a specific topic, you can click on the topics from the list below, which are timestamped links in chronological order.

  • Introduction
  • Pinhole cameras
  • The first photograph
  • The first cameras
  • Henri Cartier Bresson
  • SLR cameras
  • Other interesting cameras
  • Digital cameras
  • Demonstrating the chemistry of photograms

The above video is the first part of a two-part series from Andrew Szydlo. Next week, the Royal Institution will publish a video all about the chemistry of photography.

If you’d like to try your own hand at making a photogram at home, which is simply the art of using photosensitive materials to make a photograph without a camera, you can refer to this guide from BBC.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on A 40-minute video tour through the history of photography

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Go on a 4K video tour of Mars with images captured by NASA’s Mars rovers

23 Jul

ElderFox Documentaries has compiled a 4K UHD video tour of Mars using ultra-high resolution images and photo mosaics captured by NASA’s Mars rovers. It’s a stunning look at the Martian landscape and a great way to view another world nearly 34 million miles away.

The video is technically a slideshow, as there are massive technical constraints limiting NASA’s ability to record and transmit high-resolution video from Mars to earth. As NASA points out, it can take about 20 hours to transmit 250 megabits directly back to earth. There is an eight-minute window during each Martian day (sol) in which the rover can send the same 250 megabits of data to the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter as it passes overhead. As ElderFox Documentaries notes, at those transmission speeds and considering that ‘nothing really moves on Mars,’ it makes more sense to send images back home rather than video files.

In the video above, we see images captured by three different NASA Mars rovers: Spirit, Opportunity and Curiosity. In the bottom left corner of the video tour, ElderFox has noted the Mars rover used to capture the images and the location on Mars in which they were captured.

If you want to see more of Mars, we have a lot more to show you. In March, NASA shared the highest-resolution panoramic image of Mars ever captured by its Curiosity rover. You can see a video NASA published below. In July 2017, Curiosity captured images of clouds above the Martian landscape. Earlier that year, space enthusiast Jan Fröjdman turned NASA anaglyph images into a simulated flight video using 33,000 reference points and NASA’s own depth information. You see that incredible video here.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Go on a 4K video tour of Mars with images captured by NASA’s Mars rovers

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Blackmagic Design debuts new URSA Mini Pro 12K camera and lower-cost versions of its Video Assist 3G

17 Jul

Editor’s note: Skip to just under 30 minutes again to avoid the static intro image.

Blackmagic Design has taken the wraps off its new Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K digital film camera with support for recording video at up to 12K/60fps with 80MP per frame. The model is joined by a pair of new off-camera monitors from the company, the Blackmagic Video Assist 3G in 5″ and 7″ sizes.

Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K

The Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K is a digital film camera offering advanced options combined with a 12288 x 6480 Super 35 image sensor. This is the company’s third-generation model, one offering 14 stops of dynamic range, 4K/220fps Super 16 and 8K/110fps options in addition to 12K, an interchangeable lens mount and a SuperSpeed USB-C expansion port.

Blackmagic Design has packed a number of other notable features into its new pro-grade digital film camera, including built-in ND filters, an interchangeable PL mount and UHS-II SD and CFast card recorders. The company says that the Super 35 sensor found in this model is ‘optimized for images at multiple resolutions’ and that it features a unique (non-bayer) design with an equal number of RGB pixels. We’ve contact Blackmagic Design for further information on the sensor and will update with additional information when it becomes available.

Blackmagic Design has also streamlined its entire workflow to be more efficient, going so far as to demo that with the help of Apple’s Metal graphics architecture, it’s possible to edit 12K Blackmagic Raw footage directly on a MacBook Pro.

The Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K is aimed at professional productions, including use with television and movies. Videos shot in 12K Blackmagic RAW can be tweaked with multiple constant bitrate encoding and quality options. The 12K sensor enables oversampling so that users get sharp, highly detailed 4K and 8K images, giving creators a bit more freedom during post-production.

This is joined by a new film curve feature for Blackmagic Generation 5 Color Science that takes advantage of the 12K sensor color data. According to Blackmagic, this will ensure that highly saturated colors are better rendered and that skin tones are particularly ‘pleasing.’ The camera is compatible with PL cinema lenses, as well as EF and F mount lenses.

Talking about the new model is Blackmagic Design CEO Grant Petty, who said:

With Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K we have advanced imaging technology into a new generation where new styles of shooting will be possible. It’s not just the 12K sensor, but there is so many other innovations in this camera. From the Generation 5 Color Science, the in sensor scaling, new symmetrical color pattern, full RGB quality and of course the 12K resolution, it’s going to be exciting to see what DOPs do creatively with this technology!

Blackmagic Design is launching the URSA Mini Pro 12K this month at $ 9,995.

Blackmagic Video Assist 3G

Joining the new digital film camera is the Blackmagic Video Assist 3G, an off-camera monitor offered in 5in and 7in sizes. According to the company, Video Assist 3G is a touchscreen model offered at a lower price point than the company’s other options; it features HDMI and 3G-SDI with support for all Standard and High Definition video formats.

Likewise, Video Assist 3G has upgraded batteries compared to past models, as well as built-in scopes, a rear tally light, headphone jack and front panel speaker. Both size options feature standard SD and UHS-II SD card support — the larger model has two SD card slots so that a full card can be swapped out while recording to the second card continues.

As well, the Video Assist 3G utilizes Sony L-Series batteries and features two battery slots so that one can be swapped out with a charged battery while recording. The obvious benefit to the Video Assist 3G is that it offers a larger display than the often small screens built into cameras, giving users considerably more control over their work.

Likewise, the Video Assist has an integrated pro-grade audio recorder, exceeding the quality of many cameras while eliminating the need to tote around audio gear, though it is also possible to attach microphones to the 7-inch model via a pair of XLR inputs. In addition to the monitor’s many other features, Blackmagic has included support for several languages, including English, Spanish, German, Chinese, Russian, Japanese and more.

Blackmagic Design is now offering the Video Assist 3G monitors starting at $ 495.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Blackmagic Design debuts new URSA Mini Pro 12K camera and lower-cost versions of its Video Assist 3G

Posted in Uncategorized

 
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »