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Posts Tagged ‘Video’

Video: Zooming to the heart of Messier 87’s supermassive black hole

14 Jul

In April 2019, the National Science Foundation (NSF) unveiled the resulting image from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) project, the world’s first ever photograph of a supermassive black hole. The image, seen above, shows a ‘bright ring formed as light bends in the intense gravity around a black hole…’ Now, over a year later, the European Southern Observatory (ESO) has published a video that zooms into the night sky, illustrating very well what an incredible feat the EHT’s first image of a supermassive black hole truly is.

Despite its name, a black hole is not empty space, but is rather a huge amount of matter occupying a relatively very small area. As NASA puts it, ‘…think of a star ten times more massive than the sun squeezed into a sphere approximately the diameter of New York City. The result is a gravitational field so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape.’

Observing a black hole requires observing its effect on the stars and gas near it. The supermassive black hole captured last year is in the center of the Messier 87 (M87) galaxy, which is located about 55 million light years from earth. The M87 black hole is believed to be about 6.5 billion times more massive than the sun.

The EHT that captured it is not a single telescope but a network of radio antennae located around the globe. The EHT is the result of an international collaboration of more than 200 researchers. The team worked to improve the capabilities of Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) in order to achieve the feat of photographing the environment of a black hole. The VLBI technique requires linking eight radio dishes to create an interferometer that is essentially earth sized.

The VLBI synchronizes telescopes and utilizes the rotation of earth to observe at a wavelength of 1.3 mm, resulting in an angular resolution of 20 micro-arcseconds. To put this resolution into perspective, it is ‘enough to read a newspaper in New York from a sidewalk café in Paris, France. Telescopes are in locations including Hawaii, Mexico, Chile (shown at the beginning of the above video) and Antarctica. In our coverage of the photo from last year, we shared a video that further discusses how the telescope array functions, which you can view below.

In coordination with the Event Horizon Telescope, astronomers utilized NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory to obtain additional data of Messier 87. The x-ray data, when combined with EHT’s radio image, allow scientists to further research and learn about how energy is emitted from the event horizon. Chandra has a ‘much larger field of view than the EHT, so it can view the full length of the jet of high-energy particles launched by the intense gravitational and magnetic fields around the black hole at M87.

Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/Villanova University/J. Neilsen; Radio: Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration
You can view a combination of the Chandra x-ray imagery and EHT’s radio image below and can learn much more by clicking here.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: Astronaut Doug Hurley on what it’s like to photograph Earth from the International Space Station

13 Jul
Photo via NASA: view of the SpaceX Crew Dragon and Japan’s HTV-9 resupply ship

The Twitter account of the International Space Station (ISS) recently shared a short video wherein NASA astronaut Doug Hurley talks about what it’s like to photograph Earth from low Earth orbit.

The video, embedded below, is just 75-seconds long, but in it, Col. Hurley explains how incredible it is to take in the beauty of Earth from a distance and points out a few of the more recognizable landmarks visible from 410 km (254.8 mi) above Earth’s surface.

You can keep up with Col. Hurley on Instagram and Twitter, and follow the ISS Twitter account for future videos and photos.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon releases EOS R5 with 45MP sensor, 8K video capture and next-gen Dual Pixel AF

12 Jul

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We’ve known that the EOS R5 has been coming for a while, and today Canon has made it official. The R5’s most notable features – its sensor, in-body IS system and 8K video capture – demonstrate that Canon isn’t trying to make just another mirrorless camera: the company is trying to evolve it.

The R5 uses an all-new, Canon-designed 45MP full-frame sensor, along with the DIGIC X processor found on the EOS-1D X III. This combination allows for the fast readout and data processing horsepower required to pull off many of the R5’s standout features.

The R5 uses an all-new, Canon-designed 45MP full-frame sensor, along with the DIGIC X processor found on the EOS-1D X III

The SLR-style design features a large electronic viewfinder with 0.76x magnification and 5.76 million dots, as well as a fully articulating 2.1M-dot LCD. The M-Fn bar from the EOS R is gone, replaced instead with a conventional joystick and AF-On button. Build quality is similar to that of the EOS 5D IV, meaning that it’s rugged and weather-sealed, though not to 1D standards. The camera has a USB Type C socket (with 3.1 Gen2 speeds) along with CFexpress and SD card slots.

Some of the highlights of the R5 include its in-body image stabilizer, which can reduce shake by up to eight stops when paired with some RF lenses. The camera uses Canon’s second generation Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which offers 100% coverage and 1053 auto-selectable points. Using deep learning, the camera is able to acquire and track both people and animals.

It can capture 8K/30p video for up to 30 minutes, with your choice of Raw or H.265 output

The R5 can shoot bursts at 20 fps with continuous focus using electronic shutter and 12 fps with its mechanical shutter. Buffer memory is plentiful, especially if you’re using a CFexpress card. The camera can shoot 10-bit HEIF images in addition to Raw and JPEG.

The R5’s video specs are, well, stunning. It can capture 8K/30p video for up to 30 minutes, with your choice of Raw or H.265 output. If that’s too much for you, it also captures 4K/120p footage or it can output its 8K footage as oversampled 4K/30p. The camera can internally record 10-bit 4:2:2 footage using C-Log or HDR PQ. As one would expect, both mic and headphone jacks are available.

The EOS R5 has dual-band (2.4Ghz and 5Ghz) Wi-Fi built-in, along with Bluetooth. The camera can transfer images over FTP/SFTP as they are taken.

Battery life is rated at 320 shots/charge using the LCD and 220 shots with the EVF running at 120 fps (using the default rate of 60 fps gives you 330 shots). If you need more battery life, the $ 349 BG-R10 grip will double those numbers. There’s also a Wireless File Transmitter grip, which adds an Ethernet jack and enhanced multi-camera linked shooting. It’s priced at $ 999.

The EOS R5 will be ship in late July for $ 3899 body-only and $ 4999 bundled with the RF 24-105mm F4L lens.

Read our first impressions of the camera in our Canon EOS R5 initial review

Take a closer look in our Canon EOS R5 hands-on

Press release

THE SECRET IS OUT: CANON OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES THE CANON EOS R5 AND R6, THE COMPANY’S MOST ADVANCED FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERAS EVER

The Company is Also Announcing Four RF Lenses, Two RF Lens Extenders, and a PRO Printer

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 9, 2020 – With anticipation at a fever pitch, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is excited to introduce the company’s next generation of full-frame mirrorless cameras – the EOS R5 and EOS R6. These groundbreaking cameras are the result of many years of collecting and listening to feedback from Canon users and are sure to meet the needs and demands of a variety of creators. The EOS R5 is a camera designed for professional applications featuring a new 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and uncropped 8K video recording up to 29.97 fps. The EOS R6 is geared towards advanced amateurs featuring a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and 4K video recording up to 59.94 fps. The addition of the EOS R5 and the EOS R6 cameras within the EOS R series lineup further solidifies Canon’s commitment to providing the equipment needed for users to bring their content to the next level.

Canon is also introducing four RF lenses and two RF lens extenders: The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, Canon RF600mm F11 IS STM, Canon RF800mm F11 IS STM, and RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM lenses. All four new lenses were designed to meet the ever-expanding demands of the skilled creatives who capture amazing imagery using EOS R series cameras, including the new EOS R5 and EOS R6. In addition to the lenses, there are two new RF lens extenders, a 1.4x and a 2x model, allowing for users to take their compatible RF lens focal lengths even farther, and a 13-inch professional printer, the imagePROGRAF PRO-300, to bring photos to life through the power of print.

“For all of the Canon research and development team members who worked tirelessly on the production of these new products, today marks the culmination of a long journey. For those people looking for the next great tools to work with to expand their creative possibilities, the door is now wide open,” said Tatsuro “Tony” Kano, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Canon U.S.A.’s Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “The industry has asked for new products that can push their levels of creativity to new heights, and we are confident that the EOS R5 and EOS R6, alongside the new lenses, lens extenders, and the pro printer, will fulfill those needs and more.”

Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6
Both the EOS R5 and EOS R6 cameras have the ability to capture the action of a variety of fast-moving subjects with impressive accuracy and speed. When using the mechanical shutter, each can shoot up to 12 fps and up to 20 fps when using the completely silent shutter. Both cameras are the first to be outfitted with Canon’s advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF II which utilizes up to approximately100 percent coverage of the AF area and EOS iTR AF X incorporating AF tracking algorithms using deep learning technology and enhanced readout speed of the CMOS sensor and processing speed thanks to the DIGIC X image processor. The 1,053 automatically selected AF Zones are made even more potent by the ability to detect the human eye, face or head as well as the eye, face or body of animals such as dogs, cats and even birds. Adding to the feature set is the 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilizer, having coordinated control with Optical Image Stabilizer in IS equipped RF lenses. This provides up to 8 stops of shake correction, a feature that many creators have long asked for from Canon. Both the EOS R5 and R6 cameras come with a new LP-E6NH battery with a higher capacity than the previous model.

As the new flagship model in the EOS R series lineup, the EOS R5 camera has features that pack a punch for a variety of users who create both still and video content. It has a powerful 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and is driven by the speedy DIGIC X image processor, giving wide dynamic range as well as boasting an ISO range of 100-51,200 that is expandable up to 102,400. In a camera full of eye-popping features, one that really stands out is the ability to record uncropped 8K RAW internal video recording up to 29.97 fps and 8K internal video recording up to 29.97 fps in 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log (H.265)/4:2:2 10-bit HDR PQ (H.265). The camera can also record 4K internal video recording up to 119.88 fps in 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log (H.265)/4:2:2 10-bit HDR PQ (H.265). External recording in 4K is also available up to 59.94 fps. When in DCI modes, the 8K and 4K video recording is uncropped and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II is available in all 8K and 4K recording modes. Additional features of the EOS R5 camera include:

  • Dual-card slots: 1x CFexpress and 1x SD UHS-II
  • Built-in 0.5-inch OLED EVF with approximately 5.76 million dots and a 119.88 fps refresh rate
  • 3.2-inch 2.1 million dots vari-angle LCD touch screen
  • 5GHz/2.4GHz Built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth Technology with the ability to utilize the image.canon application, as well as optional WFT-R10A wireless file transmitter with Ethernet support
  • Enhanced operating controls such as rear-dial, multi-controller • The ability to voice tag photos and videos
  • Weather, drip and dust sealing on par with the EOS 5D series

The EOS R6 camera is well-equipped with a host of new features to push the limits of creativity for imaging enthusiasts. The combination of the EOS-1D X Mark III based 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and the DIGIC X image processor produces an ISO range of 100-102,400 and is expandable to 204,800. Internal video recording at 4K is capable up to 59.94 fps or 1080p up to 119.88 fps in 10 bit 4:2:2 Canon Log(H.265) or HDR PQ(H.265). The camera also features a built-in 0.5-inch OLED EVF with approximately 3.69 million dots and a 119.88 fps refresh ratevi. Additional features of the EOS R6 camera include:

  • Dual UHS-II SD card slots
  • 3-inch 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touch screen
  • 2.4GHz Built-in Wi-Fi®vii and Bluetooth Technologyviii with the ability to utilize the image.canon application
  • Enhanced operating controls such as rear-dial, multi-controller
  • Weather, drip and dust sealing on par with the EOS 6D series

Battery Accessory
The optional BG-R10 battery grip accessory will be available for both the EOS R5 and EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless cameras. The BG-R10 accommodates up to two batteries and is compatible with the new LP-E6NH, LP-E6N and LP-E6 batteries. The convenient BG-R10 grip accessory can also improve handling for users while capturing portrait photography.

Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM is a high-performance and versatile super-telephoto zoom lens that will find its way into the bags of many photographers. The compact and lightweight lens features optical image stabilization of up to five stops* of shake correction with three different IS modes, including standard, panning and during exposure only. Two Nano USM motors are at the heart of this lens and provide users with high-speed, smooth and quiet auto focus with a minimum focusing distance of three feet. Additional features of the Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM include:

  • Rotation-Type zoom ring and torque adjustment allows for precision control and feel
  • Customizable control ring that enables photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Canon L-Series grade dust and weather-resistant construction with a fluorine coating
  • Lens hood with side window allows specialty filters to be adjusted even while Lens Hood is attached
  • Compatible with the new 1.4x and 2x RF lens extenders (from 300 to 500mm focal length)

Canon RF600mm and 800mm F11 IS STM
The Canon RF600mm and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses are the first fixed focal length super-telephoto RF lenses and are incredibly compact and lightweight. The portability of the new lenses is made even greater due to the ability for the lens barrel to retract and lock in place when the lenses are stowed away and not in use. Diffractive Optics technology helps to reduce the necessary number of lenses and greatly diminish the cost of the lenses, making them affordable for a broader group of photographers. Additional features of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses include:

  • Lightweight – the RF600mm weighs approximately 2.05lb and the RF800mm weighs approximately 2.78lb, respectively
  • Compact size, RF600mm measures approximately 7.85inch and RF800mm with measures approximately 11.09inch when retracted, respectively
  • Fixed f/11 aperture
  • Optical image stabilization of five stops* for the RF600mm and four stops* for the RF800mm of Shake Correction
  • Lead screw-type STM enables smooth auto focusing for still-image and video shooting
  • Customizable control ring that allows photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Compatible with the new 1.4x and 2x RF lens extenders

Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM
The third RF85mm lens in the RF lineup, the Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM is compact and lightweight, featuring a bright f/2 aperture helping to capture images that have exceptional bokeh. The lens features a maximum magnification of 0.5x and a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet, providing users with macro-photography capability. Additional features of the Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM include:

  • Optical Image Stabilization with up to five stops* of Shake Correction
  • Hybrid IS compensates for angular and shift camera shake during macro photography
  • Control Ring for Direct Setting Changes.
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Nine blade Circular Aperture

RF Lens Extenders
Lens extenders have long been a practical and useful tool for a variety of photographers. That story continues with the introduction of the Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x. The new lens extenders inherit the same high image quality, precision AF and reliability, such as being drip and dustproof, of EF lens extenders. When used in combination with the newly-released compatible lenses, the capturing range can be dramatically increased, providing consumers with additional use cases for their existing RF lenses.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300
Completing the lineup of professional printer options from 13 inches through 60 inches, Canon also unveiled today the new 13-inch Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Inkjet Printer along with a new Premium Fine Art Rough paper. Providing an improved workflow and high-quality output within a smaller footprint compared to previous models, this new printer excels at professional printing performance. Combined with the new Premium Fine Art Rough paper that features a textured surface to express the depth of an image, the printer along with the paper and new EOS R5 or EOS R6 camera introduces a new powerhouse professional imaging trio that meets creators’ demands.

Pricing and Availability
The EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 3899.00 for the body only and $ 4999.00 for the R5 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens kit**.

The EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available at the end of August for an estimated retail price of $ 2499.00 for the body only, $ 2.899.00 for the R6 and RF 24-105 F4-7.1 IS STM lens kit or $ 3,599.00 for the R6 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens kit**.

The BG-R10 battery grip accessory and WFT-R10A are both scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 349.99 and $ 999.99**, respectively.

The RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens is scheduled to be available in September 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 2,699.00. The RF600mm F11 IS STM and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses are scheduled to be available at the end of July 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 699.99 and $ 899.99, respectively. The RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in October 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 599.99 **.

The RF Extender 1.4x and 2x are scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 499.99 and $ 599.99** each.

The imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Printer will be available later in July for a suggested retail price of $ 899.99. Premium Fine Art Rough paper will also be available later in July for a suggested retail price of $ 44.99 for Letter size, $ 109.99 for 13” x 19” inches and $ 169.99, 17” x 22” inches**.

For more information please visit, www.usa.canon.com/virtualproductlaunch

** Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

Canon EOS R5 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 3899 (body only), $ 4999 (w/24-105mm F4 lens)
Body type
Body type SLR-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 8192 x 5464
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 45 megapixels
Sensor size Full frame (36 x 24 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Digic X
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Yes, 100-51200 (expands to 102400)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 50
Boosted ISO (maximum) 102400
White balance presets 8
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes Works with lens-based IS systems for maximum shake reduction
CIPA image stabilization rating 8 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, normal
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.31)
  • Raw (Canon CR3)
  • HEIF (10-bit)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 1053
Lens mount Canon RF
Focal length multiplier 1×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3.2
Screen dots 2,100,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.76×
Viewfinder resolution 5,760,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/8000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes
Flash X sync speed 1/200 sec
Drive modes
  • Single
  • High-speed Continuous
  • Low-speed Continuous
Continuous drive 20.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
  • Partial
Exposure compensation 3 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
AE Bracketing 3 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264, H.265
Modes
  • 8192 x 4320 @ 30p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 8192 x 4320 @ 24p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 8192 x 4320 @ 23.98p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 7680 x 4320 @ 30p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 7680 x 4320 @ 23.98p / 1,300 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 120p / 1,880 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 60p / 940 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 30p / 470 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 470 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 470 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 120p / 1,880 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 940 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 470 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 470 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 470 Mbps, MOV, H.265, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types CFexpress and SD (UHS-II) slots
Connectivity
USB USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GBit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI Yes (micro HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11ac (dual-band) + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description LP-E6NH lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 320
Weight (inc. batteries) 738 g (1.63 lb / 26.03 oz)
Dimensions 138 x 98 x 88 mm (5.43 x 3.84 x 3.46)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New H.266/VVC video compression standard will reduce video sizes by up to 50%

09 Jul

A new video encoding standard that reduces video file sizes by 50% is set to become usable by the end of the year, allowing high-resolution footage to be saved with smaller file sizes and to be transmitted in less time. H.266/VVC (Versatile Video Coding) follows on from the current H.265 compression standard and was developed by Fraunhofer HHI alongside companies such as Sony, Apple, Intel, Huawei, Microsoft, Qualcomm and Ericsson.

The idea of the new standard is to compress files so that 4K and 8K footage become easier and quicker to move, particularly over slower network connections. The effect should be that all video footage takes up less space on a memory card and can be copied over to a hard disk in less time, all while using less computer power. That footage can also be posted online, to external storage, sent to a third party or streamed more quickly/easily due to the reduced file size.

The new H.266 standard will also allow systems or locations with poor data rates to receive larger files more quickly, so movies, for example, will buffer less and play more smoothly. Mobile devices will also be able to send higher resolution files, or longer clips, without using so much data.

Fraunhofer says that ‘H.266/VVC offers faster video transmission for equal perceptual quality,’ so we shouldn’t see the difference between files compressed by H.266 and those compressed using H.265. H.265 also halved file sizes when it was introduced, as did the H.264 standard that came before that — and which is still in use today.

The new standard requires new chips to make the most of it, and the press release states that they are already in production and that Fraunhofer will release the software to allow the standard to be used in the autumn of this year. For more information see the Fraunhofer website.

Press release:

Fraunhofer HHI is proud to present the new state-of-the-art in global video coding: H.266/VVC brings video transmission to new speed

After devoting several years to its research and standardization, Fraunhofer HHI (together with partners from industry including Apple, Ericsson, Intel, Huawei, Microsoft, Qualcomm, and Sony) is celebrating the release and official adoption of the new global video coding standard H.266/Versatile Video Coding (VVC). This new standard offers improved compression, which reduces data requirements by around 50% of the bit rate relative to the previous standard H.265/High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) without compromising visual quality. In other words, H.266/VVC offers faster video transmission for equal perceptual quality. Overall, H.266/VVC provides efficient transmission and storage of all video resolutions from SD to HD up to 4K and 8K, while supporting high dynamic range video and omnidirectional 360° video.

Today, compressed video data make up 80% of global Internet traffic. H.266/VVC represents the pinnacle of (at least) four generations of international standards for video coding. The previous standards H.264/Advanced Video Coding (AVC) and H.265/HEVC, which were produced with substantial contributions from Fraunhofer HHI, remain active in more than 10 billion end devices, processing over 90% of the total global volume of video bits. Both previous standards were also recognized by collectively three Emmy Engineering Awards for contributing substantially to the progress of television technology.

Through a reduction of data requirements, H.266/VVC makes video transmission in mobile networks (where data capacity is limited) more efficient. For instance, the previous standard H.265/HEVC requires ca. 10 gigabytes of data to transmit a 90-min UHD video. With this new technology, only 5 gigabytes of data are required to achieve the same quality. Because H.266/VVC was developed with ultra-high-resolution video content in mind, the new standard is particularly beneficial when streaming 4K or 8K videos on a flat screen TV. Furthermore, H.266/VVC is ideal for all types of moving images: from high-resolution 360° video panoramas to screen sharing contents.

“After dedicating almost three years toward this standard, we are proud to have been instrumental in developing H.266/VVC,” says Benjamin Bross, head of the Video Coding Systems group at Fraunhofer HHI and editor of the +500-page standard specification of H.266/VVC. “Because of the quantum leap in coding efficiency offered by H.266/VVC, the use of video will increase further worldwide. Moreover, the increased versatility of H.266/VVC makes its use more attractive for a broader range of applications related to the transmission and storage of video.”

“If you consider that Fraunhofer HHI already played a key role in the development of the previous video coding standards H.264/AVC and H.265/HEVC, then we are happy with the fact that more than 50% of the bits on the Internet are generated by a Fraunhofer HHI technology,” adds Dr. Detlev Marpe, head of the Video Coding and Analytics department at Fraunhofer HHI.

A uniform and transparent licensing model based on the FRAND principle (i.e., fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory) is planned to be established for the use of standard essential patents related to H.266/VVC. For this purpose, the Media Coding Industry Forum (MC-IF) was founded. In addition to Fraunhofer Society, the MC-IF now includes +30 companies and organizations. The new chips required for the use of H.266/VVC, such as those in mobile devices, are currently being designed. Dr. Thomas Schierl, head of the Video Coding and Analytics department at Fraunhofer HHI, announced “this autumn Fraunhofer HHI will publish the first software (for both encoder and decoder) to support H.266/VVC.”

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: How to build a custom Raspberry Pi ‘Becca Cam’ with zero coding experience

06 Jul

Becca Farsace, Video Director at The Verge, has shared a video detailing how she built her own Raspberry Pi camera with no coding experience.

The nine-minute video is a fun overview of what it took to turn a Raspberry Pi 4 computer into a fully-functioning interchangeable-lens camera with the help of Raspberry Pi’s new HQ Camera add-on, a three-inch touchscreen, a spare lens or two from Becca’s 16mm Bolex camera and a sacrificial Ninoka nk-700 film camera.

Since Becca isn’t too familiar with Python, the coding language needed to build apps for the Raspberry Pi 4 computer, she had more than a few hurdles to clear before she could get shooting. However, with the help of her Instagram followers, the camera’s manual and plenty of perseverance over the course of a few days, she was able to get a program up and running that allowed her to capture images.

The resulting ‘Becca Cam’ is far from intuitive (particularly when the keyboard is required) and quality of images captured with the camera isn’t going to blow anyone away, but for a 1.0 product built with zero coding knowledge, it’s impressive.

Becca shared links to all of the materials and code used to create the camera (aside from the frame, which was hacked together from an old film camera), so if you’re feeling like making your own camera, follow the video link and pick up the required components.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Fujifilm adds Raw video output, gimbal support and Film Simulation modes to GFX100

30 Jun

Fujifilm has issued firmware updates to the GFX100 and GFX 50 models, with the 100MP camera gaining the most significant improvements.

The GFX100 will gain the ability to output a Raw video stream that can be encoded in Apple’s ProRes RAW format by an Atomos Ninja V recorder. This provides a much wider degree of processing latitude than the gamma-encoded, compressed files the camera saves internally.

In addition, the firmware expands the camera’s USB control protocol, giving more control over the camera’s settings when shooting tethered, and allowing remote control of various camera features when mounted on a drone or gimbal.

Face and eye detection AF is said to be improved, as is the performance of phase detection AF in low light. New focus bracketing options have also been added.

Finally, the GFX100 gains the Classic Neg and Eterna Bleach Bypass Film Simulations introduced since its launch.

GFX 50S and 50R users also gain Classic Neg, along with the original Eterna Film Simulation mode in an update to their cameras. This update also adds the subtle skin-smoothing feature from the GFX 100.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: Explaining why you SHOULD overexpose the highlights in certain photos

27 Jun

It’s a general rule of thumb in photography — digital photography in particular — that you shouldn’t overexpose your highlights, as it can result in the loss of detail. Like all rules, however, this rule not only can be broken but should be broken in certain situations, argues Pye Jirsa of SLR Lounge.

In a five-minute video shared on the SLR Lounge YouTube Channel, Pye explains why you should blow out your highlights in certain situations if it means being able to capture a more powerful image. Specifically, he shows how a ‘perfectly imperfect’ bridal portrait can yield a more natural and authentic feel by overexposing the background in favor of capturing a more technically proper exposure, which Pye explains results in a much more ‘sterile’ feel.

As with all ‘rules’ in photography, very few, if any are hard rules that can’t be broken. But before you start throwing caution to the wind, it helps to know why the rules should be tossed to the side every once in a while on the account of artistic interpretation.

In addition to the video, Pye also shared a detailed breakdown of his thoughts in an article on SLR Lounge. You can find more tutorials from Pye and others on the SLR Lounge YouTube Channel.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: Caffenol film development from a coffee connoisseur’s point of view

25 Jun

There’s no shortage of videos on YouTube showing how to develop film using Caffenol, a broad name used to describe a homemade film development chemical that uses coffee, vitamin C, sodium carbonate and other ingredients to process film. Usually, it’s film photographers or analog aficionados making and sharing these videos, but in his latest video, coffee genius and 2007 World Barista Champion James Hoffmann shares his take on Caffenol development, sharing the experience from a coffee expert’s point of view.

As you might expect from someone so knowledgeable about coffee and its attributes, Hoffmann doesn’t settle for the instant coffee Caffenol. No, he goes all out with fresh-roasted beans and an elaborate recipe that requires him to pull nine double-shots of espresso that’s then filtered multiple times to replicate the instant coffee recipes you often find online.

A screenshot from the video showing an exposure captured on Ilford HP5 120 film with a Mamiya RB67 Pro S medium format camera and developed in Hoffmann’s custom Caffenol recipe.

After going through the recipe and development process, Hoffmann shares behind-the-scenes video of him capturing the photos on Ilford HP5 120 film in a Mamiya RB67 Pro S at a local roastery with the developed and scanned images overlaid on the footage.

Although the scans he shares aren’t high-resolution, they look about how you’d expect from Caffenol development of Ilford HP5 120 film. Overall, the 13-minute video is a wonderful watch with a unique look at the process we don’t often see in the photo world. If you’re a coffee fan yourself, do yourself a favor and subscribe to Hoffmann’s YouTube channel. He’s a wealth of knowledge and his calm-but-insightful videos have an almost meditative flow to them.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: A look at every new feature in Adobe’s June Lightroom, Photoshop updates

23 Jun

Last week, Adobe released its latest updates for Lightroom, Photoshop and Camera Raw, bringing new and improved features to each of its photo-centric apps. While the list of updated features is exhaustive, Colin Smith from YouTube Channel Photoshop CAFE has broken down every new feature so you don’t have to.

Smith’s feature overview is split between two videos: one that focuses on Photoshop and Camera Raw, and one that focuses on Lightroom Classic.

For the 12-minute Photoshop video, Smith covers the improved AI-powered Select Subject tool in Photoshop as well as the updated Lightroom-inspired interface for Adobe Camera Raw.

The Lightroom video comes in at 11 minutes and addresses the new Local Hue tool, the updated Tone Curve interface, ISO Adaptive Presets and the new performance improvements Adobe has made throughout the app.

You can keep up to date with Smith’s Photoshop and Lightroom tips and tutorials over on the PhotoshopCAFE Youtube Channel.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: How scratch-proof is a Sony a6000 image sensor?

23 Jun

If you’re a Sony user with a weak stomach, you might want to look away for this one. Photographer and YouTuber Arthur R shared a video this past week that looks at just how scratch-proof an image sensor is.

Admittedly, this isn’t the most scientific of tests, as he’s using a scrap sensor and doesn’t put it back into the camera to see if any damage not visible to the eye is affecting image quality, but it’s an interesting test nonetheless. Using small tape, Arthur divides the sensor — taken from a Sony a6000 — into four quadrants and uses four different mediums to test the durability of the sensor: dust, dirt, oils and a knife.

As Arthur details in the ten-minute video, the durability of the sensor is impressive, at least to the naked eye. Dust, dirt and oils didn’t show any noticeable markings and even the box cutter abuse only yielded a few scratches. Granted, it’s possible smaller scratches that could affect image quality may be able to be seen with a microscope, it still came out better than he expected.

You can find more videos from Arthur R over on his YouTube Channel.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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