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  • Olympus OM-D E-M1X in the studio: familiar image quality, Pixel-Shift still impresses

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    We’ve been shooting with the new Olympus OM-D E-M1X for a little while now, both in and out of our studio. Our standard studio tests show that conventional stills performance is little changed from the E-M1 II, but its high-res Pixel Shift mode is still impressive.

    Click here to read our Olympus OM-D E-M1X First Impressions Review

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • How to Take Floating Photos – Levitation Photography [video]

    The post How to Take Floating Photos – Levitation Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Caz Nowaczyk.

    In this great video from, Dunna Did It, you will learn how to create Levitation photography. That’s right, you’ll learn how to take floating photos!

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    What you need:

    1. Camera to shoot with
    2. Tripod
    3. Photo Editing software

    How to create levitation photography:

    • Set up your object that you are photographing.
    • Put your camera’s settings to the required settings based on your lighting and room.
    • The trick is to take one photo holding it with your left hand, and then one holding it with your right hand.
    • Be sure to turn on you turn Grids ON in your camera.
    • Line up your camera in the same spot for each shot using your grid.
    • Use manual focus for each shot because you want the focus to be exactly the same for each photo.
    • Hold your camera with one hand and line it up to your grid, focus and take the photo.
    • While still holding it, reach with your other hand and grab the opposite side (keeping the camera in the same position). Let go with the other hand, and take the 2nd photo. Try this as many times as you need to.
    • Choose and edit your best photos in Lightroom (or the editing program of your choice).
    • Once you have the two you want to combine, jump to Photoshop (press cmd+E mac, ctrl+E win) and choose Edit in Photoshop.
    • Go to the image held with the left hand and double-click the layer in the Layer Palette to make it an editable layer.
    • Then choose Cmd+A to select all, then Cmd+C to copy.
    • Jump to the other image, double click the layer in the Layers Palette to make the layer editable.
    • Then choose Cmd+V to paste the other image you copied into the new image.
    • Lower the opacity of the top layer to about 36% so you can see how well you can line them up.
    • Move the top layer until it is lined up.
    • Next, we want to take the top layer and delete to parts we don’t want.
    • Put a layer mask onto the top layer and select your Brush Tool (use a soft brush by turning down the hardness).
    • Change your foreground color in your toolbar to black to paint out areas of the layer mask.
    • Paint out the areas you don’t want. To fine-tune, make your brush smaller and continue to paint out areas you don’t need.
    • Check all your lines around your image to ensure they line up.
    • Do any further edits you want and you are done!

    You may also find the following articles helpful:

    How to do Digital Blending in Photoshop to Create a Composite Photo

    How to Create A Simple Composite: Photoshop Creative

    How to Make a Composite Wine Bottle Image using Photoshop Layers

    Preparing your Model and Background for a Successful Composite

    How to Shoot and Create a Composite Image for a Product Advertisement

    A Guide to Create Eye-Catching Composite Images

     

    The post How to Take Floating Photos – Levitation Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Caz Nowaczyk.


    Digital Photography School

  • New Samsung Exynos chipset supports 8K video, up to five camera modules

    Samsung announced its Exynos 9820 chipset, which will likely power the company’s 2019 flagship smartphones, including the Galaxy S10, late last year. Now Samsung has unveiled additional detail on the new processor in a press release.

    Of course, it’s the new chipset’s imaging capabilities of interest and on paper it looks like the Exynos 9820 won’t disappoint. It will be able to manage up to five camera modules. It’s already known at least one version of the Galaxy S10 will likely come with a triple-camera on the back. This leaves enough processing power for a front dual-camera as well.

    In addition devices equipped with the chipset will be able to record 8K video using a 10-bit HEVC codec. This doesn’t necessarily mean such high-res video will be standard on the Galaxy S10 at launch, but it’s good to know any Exynos 9820-equipped devices will be future-proof in terms of video and an 8K mode could possibly be activated via firmware update.

    On the display side of things the new chipset can manage 4K displays with HDR10+ and dynamic tone mapping.

    Non-imaging highlights include a tri-cluster setup with a mix of Samsung custom cores and ARM designs, a Mali-G76 12-core design that is 40% faster than last year’s GPU, a neural processing unit (NPU) that is seven times faster than the previous version and a 8nm LPP process, which requires 10% less power than the 10nm LPP process from last year.

    More detail can be found on the Samsung website.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Facebook’s photo sharing app Moments is being shuttered due to lack of user interest

    Facebook is shuttering its image sharing app Moments, the company announced on Thursday. The product, which was announced in June 2015, allows multiple Facebook users to privately share images they’ve taken with the people who are featured in them. The app transforms Facebook’s facial recognition technology into a convenient tool, but few users are actually using the service.

    The premise behind Facebook Moments is simple: many people snap images at a gathering. Those images can be manually shared with other individuals who attended the same event, but there’s a chance someone may miss out on photos they were featured in.

    By using its facial recognition tech, Facebook is able to scan the user’s camera roll, identify other Moments users in the images, and issue an alert suggesting the user share those particular images with the other people featured in them. Google Photos offers a similar feature.

    Moments was launched as a standalone app, and it’ll be officially shuttered on February 25, according to an email Facebook has sent to users. CNET reports that Facebook Moments’ demise is partly due to a lack of interest from users.

    In addition to the email, users were given an alert within the Moments app, and any Facebook user who utilized the service within the last year will see an alert about the closure within the main Facebook app. Facebook Moments will be inaccessible starting on February 25. Users who wish to keep their images can use Facebook’s new ‘Export Your Moments’ tool to save them.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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

    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)

  • Apple announces it will pay licensing fee to ‘Shot on iPhone’ contest winners after complaints

    Shot on iPhone 7 by Erdem Summak

    Recently we reported on the launch of Apple’s 2019 ‘Shot on iPhone’ photo contest and the complaints some professional photographers were having about the small print. Trevor Mahlmann for example, shared his thoughts in a post on Reddit.

    Essentially photographers were handing over exclusive commercial ownership of their images in exchange for photo credit.

    It seems the complaints have not gone unnoticed, however, resulting in Apple clarifying its position. In an updated press release the company today announced it is planning to pay the winning photographers of its competition.

    “Apple believes strongly that artists should be compensated for their work. Photographers who shoot the final 10 winning photos will receive a licensing fee for use of such photos on billboards and other Apple marketing channels.”

    The PDF with the official rules has been updated accordingly as well. We still don’t know how much the licensing fee will be but Apple recognizing that an image worth putting on a billboard is an image worth paying for is a step into the right direction.

    Apple’s “Shot on iPhone” contest will run through February 7. Read our previous post to find out how to enter.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Olympus developing 150-400mm F4.5 Pro lens with built-in 1.25X teleconverter

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    Olympus has announced the development of a pro-level super tele-zoom lens, the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS Pro. This hefty lens will have a standard focal range of 300-800mm equiv. on Micro Four Thirds bodies, with a built-in 1.25X teleconverter increasing those numbers to 375-1000mm equiv., at the cost of 2/3-stop of light. If you want even more reach, the lens will also be compatible with Olympus’ new MC-20 2X teleconverter.

    The lens will be stabilized and will work with the 5-axis IS systems built into modern Olympus cameras for extra shake reduction. As one would expect, it will be fully weather-sealed and Olympus claims it should function at temperatures as low as -10°C/+14°F.

    The 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS Pro will be available in 2020, and pricing has not yet been disclosed.

    OLYMPUS ANNOUNCES DEVELOPMENT OF PRO SUPER TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS & 2x TELECONVERTER

    The M.Zuiko® Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO And M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20 Will Make 2000mm (35mm Equivalent) Super Telephoto Handheld Shooting Possible

    CENTER VALLEY, PA., January 24, 2019 – Olympus announces the development of the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO super telephoto zoom lens. This lens is compatible with the Micro Four Thirds® System standard, and features a 1.25x built-in teleconverter, covering a focal length range of 300-1000mm[1] (35mm equivalent). Also in development is the M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20. The combination of both products makes handheld super telephoto shooting possible at a 35mm equivalent focal length of 2000mm.

    With these new products, Olympus will further expand its super telephoto lens lineup, maximizing the advantages of the Micro Four Thirds System, including excellent image quality, compact lightweight designs, and superior portability.

    The M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO lens is designed for exceptional optical performance in a compact, lightweight form, and includes dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C) design with superb handheld usability. This is the first Olympus® interchangeable lens with a built-in 1.25x teleconverter, which easily extends the focal length to the maximum of 1000mm1 (35mm equivalent). It also offers in-lens image stabilization (IS), supporting 5-Axis Sync IS[2] when operating in concert with the image stabilization of Olympus OM-D® cameras. The compact system delivers remarkable portability, and the built-in teleconverter provides convenience, making it the optimal super telephoto zoom lens for sports and bird photography. This lens has an expected availability date of 2020.

    The M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20 doubles the focal length of the master lens while offering outstanding portability as well as dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C) performance. The teleconverter is compatible with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO lens, currently in development, as well as the M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 IS PRO and M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F2.8 PRO lenses. Not only does this teleconverter extend the telephoto range, but it also doubles the maximum shooting magnification of the master lens for unprecedented super telephoto macro shooting. This item has an expected availability date of summer 2019.

    U.S. Pricing and Availability

    Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO lens expected availability date: 2020; M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20 expected availability date: Summer, 2019. Pricing is not available at this time.

    [1] When using the built-in teleconverter. Widest aperture setting is F5.6.

    [2] Further information regarding compatible models to be provided in the product press release upon official product sales announcement.

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • Tips for Portrait Photography in Overcast Weather [video]

    The post Tips for Portrait Photography in Overcast Weather appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Caz Nowaczyk.

    In this video by Julia Trotti, you’ll learn tips for portrait photography in overcast weather that can give you more even, soft light on your models.

    Overcast weather can be a great time to do portrait photography because the light is soft and doesn’t create as many of the harsh shadows that bright midday sunlight creates.

    If you are doing a shoot with a model and the weather is overcast, keep in mind the following tips:

    1. Make the most of it by using locations you normally wouldn’t

    Keep in mind, depending on the type of overcast weather it is, you may still get some shadows if it is a bright overcast day.

    If you find there is not quite enough light getting to your model’s eyes, ask them to bring their chin up a little to capture the light on their eyes.

    Bear in mind that the direction your model is facing also has an effect on the light and contrast to the background.

    Shoot in a few directions at the start as test shots to decide which is the best angle for light.

    When photographing on overcast days, you may want to find a location that has a pop of color so that your images are not flat. Green locations such as gardens and forests work well. If in a location that is not as vibrant in color, consider dressing your model in colorful clothes.

    2. Be mindful of including the sky in your photos

    When the sky is dark and overcast, it can add great drama. However, if it is a bright overcast day, the sky can look blown out. In this case, use varied composition and camera angles to eliminate distracting over-blown white sky (unless your purpose is to have high contrast between your model and background).

    3. Keep an eye on your camera settings

    When overcast, your scene may be quite a bit darker, and your camera settings need to reflect that. Also, depending on your location, you may need to tweak your camera settings too.

    If you want to capture sharp hair in windy conditions, use a faster shutter speed to avoid motion blur on your models’ hair. If you want to show the effect of some slight motion, use a slower shutter speed.

    You may also find the following articles helpful:

    6 Portrait Lighting Patterns Every Photographer Should Know

    13 Tips for Improving Outdoor Portraits

    10 Ways to Take Stunning Portraits

    How to Create Awesome Portrait Lighting with a Paper Bag an Elastic Band and a Chocolate Donut

    How to Pose and Angle the Body for Better Portraits

    The post Tips for Portrait Photography in Overcast Weather appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Caz Nowaczyk.


    Digital Photography School

  • Olympus E-M1X Sample Gallery

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    Olympus has released the ultimate Micro Four Thirds sports camera in the E-M1X and we’ve been busy pointing it at as many fast-moving subjects as humanly possible. Note: Many of these images are from an E-M1X running pre-production firmware, but rest assured we’ll be updating with more final firmware samples soon.

    See our Olympus E-M1X pre-production sample gallery

    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

  • DPReview TV: Olympus E-M1X Review

    Olympus just announced its new flagship camera, the OM-D E-M1X, and Chris and Jordan are already here with their review. Tune in to see them put this new model to the test in the frozen north, and find out what they think of it.

    Get new episodes of DPReview TV every week by subscribing to our YouTube channel!

    • Opening sequence
    • Introduction
    • Jordan's video settings
    • Ergonomics and controls
    • Live ND
    • Handheld high-resolution mode
    • Sunset shooting
    • Autofocus modes and performance
    • Weather sealing
    • EVF and LCD panel
    • Image stabilization
    • Final thoughts

    Images from this episode

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    Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)