Sigma Corporation of America today announced its “Total Solar Eclipse” promotion that features instant rebates for the following Sigma Global Vision telephoto lenses and mount converter: the Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary and Sports lens models, the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens, and the Sigma MC-11 Mount Converter for Sony E-mount camera systems. The new Sigma instant rebate programme pays homage to the rare total solar eclipse phenomenon taking place on 21 August 2017. Sigma customers will receive a $200 instant rebate off the purchase of a Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports lens (normally $1,999 USD) and a $100 instant rebate off the purchase of a Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens (normally $1,089 USD). Sigma customers will also receive a $50 instant rebate off the purchase of a Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens (normally $799 USD). The promotion features an additional $100 instant rebate off the purchase of a Sigma MC-11 Mount Converter for Sony E-mount, full-frame and APS-C sensor cameras (normally $249 USD) when purchased with either of the 150-600mm F5-6.3 or the 100-400mm F5-6.3 lens models. The “Total Solar Eclipse” promotion ends on 21 August 2017.

The new Sirui NT-1005X is a compact travel tripod that features an integrated monopod, the Sirui E-10 ball-head and an extendable centre column. From its collapsed length of just 36cm to its fully extended height of 148.3cm, and weighing in at only 1.44kg (E-10 head included), the NT-10005X features non-slip twist locks that open the leg sections with just half a turn, non-slip foam rubber leg-grips, a reversible mounting screw and a stabilising load hook. The integrated monopod is easily removed from the main tripod and can reach a working height of 154cm (including E-10 ball-head) by attaching the NT-1005X’s removable centre column. Sirui's E-10 ball-head, included with the NT-1005X, has a load capacity of 8kg, making it ideal for using mirrorless cameras and small DSLRs, and features a spirit level, 360º panning and a safety lock mechanism. The Sirui NT-1005X is available for £179.99.

Manfrotto today unveiled the brand new 360° Virtual Reality range, which includes bases, accessories and extension booms that make it easier to create 360-degree videos and photos. Manfrotto VR bases provide reliably stable support and are compact enough not to show in 360° shots. They guarantee the stability photographers and videographers need to get a few metres off the ground and are available in a variety of sizes and materials to suit individual creative requirements. The company’s VR accessories range makes 360° shooting quicker and easier. Last but not least, Manfrotto’s VR boom extensions maximise camera height when required. They can be connected to all the bases in the Manfrotto VR range, enabling users to achieve a wide variety of heights. Prices range from £29.95 to £634.95.

Miggo has announced the expansion of its AGUA line of storm-proof camera bags. The three new bags announced today – the Versa ($169), Sling ($139) and Drone Lander ($129) - are designed for holding everyday gear and provide support for DSLR cameras and the popular Mavic and Spark drones. The company has launched an Indiegogo campaign to help fund the commercialisation of the new bags, which are IPX3-standard storm-proof and carefully designed from durable tarpaulin with an impressive and unique matte finish. "This is miggo’s fourth crowdfunding campaign,” said Guy Sprukt, Marketing Manager and miggo co-founder. “The crowdfunding arena is the place where we bring products to life and is also a way for a young brand like ours to gather real feedback from consumers and implement changes before the final product is brought to market. The new bags we’re announcing today are backed by significant R&D offer a completely different approach to carrying photographic gear and drones."

Elinchrom has announced availability and pricing for its new ELB 1200 battery-powered, on-location lighting solution. Weighing only 9.5 lb (4.3 kg), the ELB 1200 has been completely redesigned to meet the needs of photographers needing a combination of performance and portability. Featuring a lightweight, shock-resistant case and oversized cable connections for easier operating while wearing gloves, the ELB 1200 will become available at the end of August 2017, priced at $3499 / €3749 / £3299 (ELB 1200 To Go) and $3749 / €3999 / £3499 (ELB 1200 To Roll).

To coincide with the release of the ELB 1200, Elinchrom is providing current Elinchrom Ranger owners with a $1000 credit good towards the purchase of a new ELB 1200 when they trade in their old Ranger RX pack and head. The units do not have to be functional, but they do need to be complete ie: battery, pack, charger and a minimum of one head. Photographers ready to upgrade are encouraged to bring their qualifying Ranger equipment (Ranger RX, Ranger RX Speed or Ranger RX Speed AS with a minimum of one Ranger A or Ranger S Flash Head) to any authorised dealer to receive $1000 off their ELB 1200 purchase instantly. The trade in offer is valid on purchases made through 31 December 2017.

To celebrate the launch of their new Instagram page, BenQ are offering one lucky follower the chance to win their SW2700PT monitor, worth £594. Designed to effortlessly and accurately showcase the creative vision of professional photographers, the SW2700PT is packed full of image enhancing features such as hardware calibration, 99% Adobe RGB colour space coverage and a 2560 x 1440 resolution IPS panel. To be in with a chance of winning a brand-new BenQ SW2700PT monitor, simply follow @inspiration_by_benq on Instagram by Monday 31st July 2017.

Vanguard have just introduced the second generation of their VEO travel tripod line - VEO 2. With an emphasis on lightweight, durable construction and slim silhouettes, VEO 2 is tailor-made for travel photographers. Weighing even less than its predecessor and featuring all new materials - including a new carbon fibre technology - VEO 2 is available in 12 different configurations which include either aluminium or carbon fibre legs, a choice of 4 or 5 leg sections, 3 different colourways, and a choice between a ball head or a pan head. Vanguard’s patented rapid center column rotation feature allows the VEO tripod to fold into a super compact travel size
in seconds. Vanguard’s new VEO 2 tripods employ the same rotating centre column feature for excellent out-and-about functionality, however VEO 2 is even faster because it features advanced quarter turn twist-locks with definite open and shut positions for ultra-fast leg extension. The extra strong leg locks enable the Vanguard VEO 2 to offer a maximum load capacity of up to 8kg. To round out the VEO Collection, Vanguard has also designed all new VEO Discover bags, meant to perfectly complement the tripods. With innovative tripod carrying systems, the VEO Discover messenger bags and backpacks/slings allow photographers to pack their compact VEO 2 tripod as a carry-on.

OmegaBrandess have announced Cokin’s developement of an adapter ring specifically designed for the Olympus M.Zuiko 7-14mm F2.8 PRO lens. As the lens has a built-in hood and a round shaped front element without a thread, it used to be impossible to use filters - such as neutral density, graduated neutral density and circular polarisers - on this lens. After extensive development and testing, Cokin engineers have come up with a solution. The main component of the new accessory is positioned around the lens body, then attached to the adapter ring with screws. The XL size (X-PRO Series) filter-holder (included in the kit) is then attached to the ring, leaving two slots available for filters. The XL filter-holder is compatible with CREATIVE filters, and neutral density (ND and GND) glass filters from the NUANCES range.

Datacolor are offering all display calibration owners the opportunity to upgrade to SypderELITE+ for a fraction of the price this summer. From July 17th to August 31st 2017, users can save £1301 on the Spyder5ELITE package, which will include a Spyder5ELITE+ software upgrade and a 90-day Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan membership. Photographers looking to upgrade their colour calibration device can take advantage of the promotion by submitting the serial number for their display calibration device at the website below.

Tenba has launched an updated and remodelled Tenba Roadie Collection. Including the Roadie Roller 18” & 21” models, plus the new Roller 21” Hybrid & 21“ Air Case, the Roadie range is designed to provide travelling photographers with the very best protection for their kit, while sporting durable and discreet styling to keep valuable camera and video equipment safe and secure. Each bag also features a built-in locking mechanism for the main compartment and braided steel cable with padlock to secure the bag should you need to leave it unattended. The Air Case is shippable, checkable and un-crushable patented multi-layered shell offering the protection of a hard case at a fraction of the weight. Sizes vary within the range to accommodate several camera bodies, lenses and laptops up to, and including, 17”. A versatile padded camera insert (in each model apart from the 18” Roller) allows a camera and 2-3 lenses to be carried independently – and used within another bag of choice. Click through / read on for the details.

LPA Design today unveiled the PocketWizard MultiMAX II transceiver. Billed as the most versatile, reliable and predictably compatible radio on the market, the MultiMAX II offers a number of new features including 20 ControlTL channels - in addition to 32 standard rado channels -, Manual Power Control and an improved blue backlit LCD screen that provides better contrast for improved viewing in dimly lit studios or on-site locations. The key pad is brighter too, allowing photographers to easily change settings on the fly. Its 344 MHz frequency sets it apart from 2.4 GHz noise in crowded venues. “Professional photographers have clamored for years to bring back the MultiMAX. We listened and we responded by making a great radio even better and offering it at a lower price. The MultiMAX II Transceiver is and remains the only radio on the market that performs special PocketWizard features including Infinite Intervalometer, SpeedCycler and Ultra Long Range. It is the most reliable Transceiver on the market for capturing life’s most amazing moments, states Karen Marshall, CEO of LPA Design. The MultiMAX II will be available at retail and on line in the US and Canada starting 17 July 2017. The retail price will be $229 in the US and $309 in Canada.

Australian startup ALPAKA has announced it is returning to Kickstarter with its latest creation, the Shift Pack. This innovative photo bag features a main roll-top compartment that quickly expands from a daily commuter to a larger travel pack. This largest compartment also features a reach-in vertically-oriented front zipper for a stylish touch and functional appeal. “The Shift Pack was designed around its name; it’s a comfortable, accessible pack that can quickly transition from the routine morning commute, to a lunchtime gym session and still be ready to hop a late flight for that last-minute vacation deal,” said Ramiro Gomez, cofounder of ALPAKA. “Following the overwhelming support we saw for our first product, the 7ven Messenger, we couldn’t wait to get back to the design table to tackle our first backpack, and now that the Shift Pack is finally here we wanted the Kickstarter community to have the first chance to purchase this new design.” With backpacker packages starting at $159.00 USD, the Shift Pack Kickstarter campaign will run for 44 days.

Polaroid have announced seven new camera bags including attractively priced compact bags for mirrorless cameras, roomy backpack styles for DSLR kits and fast-access sling bags. Perfect for stowing smaller, mirrorless cameras, the Polaroid JOZ 20 zoom photo pack ($14.99) and the Polaroid JOZ 25 zoom photo pack bags ($16.99) are ideal for photographers who are looking for lightweight options to protect their gear. The Polaroid JOZ 20 zoom photo pack holds either a mirrorless camera with a lens attached or a compact camera with a fixed-mount zoom lens, while the Polaroid JOZ 25 zoom photo pack accommodates a compact DSLR camera with a 3 ½” lens attached. For photographers looking for a little more space for their gear while out-and-about, Polaroid offers the Polaroid JOZ 45 DSLR camera bag ($10.40) and the Polaroid JOZ 36 mirrorless / compact DSLR camera bag ($21.99). The Polaroid JOZ 76 ($42.99) photo sling pack accommodates a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a lens attached, an extra lens and a host of accessories, the sling is complete with a side door that allows for fast access to equipment when the bag is swung around to the front. Polaroid have also launched two photo backpacks, the Polaroid JOZ 81 ($39.99), which fits a DSLR camera and attached lens, as well as two to three extra lenses, flash and accessories; and the Polaroid JOZ 83 ($41.99), which can house a DSLR with a lens attached, three to four additional lenses, a flash, tablet and a host of accessories.

Fantasea have launched a selection of products designed to upgrade underwater housings. These include the UMG-02 LCD Magnifier ($219.95), which provides underwater photographers with an enlarged, clear, bright and sharp view of their camera's LCD screen; and the Fantasea Moisture Detector ($59.95), which includes an alarm unit and a moisture sensor unit, connected by a thin wire. The alarm unit is installed on any of the housing side panels using a double-sided installation sticker, included in the package. Click through / scroll down for the details.

Benro has launched a pair of carbon fibre tripods designed to provide heavy weight support for professional SLR cameras with long lenses. Based on the original Benro Combination tripods, the remodelled legs now feature the favoured ‘twist’ leg locks, rather than the lever leg locks on the earlier version. Ideal for wildlife and landscape photographers and film-makers alike, the tripods are extremely well specified, with key features including 8-layer carbon fibre tubes and magnesium alloy castings are lightweight, stable and offer excellent shock absorption, a flat mount platform for head, or supplied with levelling 75mm bowl for video use and a ballast hook for added stability. The tripods are available with three- or four-section legs and three feet options: ‘big’ foot, traditional rubber foot, or stainless spiked feet. The 3-section model (£400) has a maximum height of 150cm and folds down to 67.5cm, whilst the 4-section variant (£410) offers a maximum height of 152cm and a folded length of 57cm. Both models boast a maximum load capacity of 18kg.

The new Laowa Magic Shift Converter for Sony full-frame E-mount cameras can convert an ultra-wide lens into a shift lens and allows photographers to use it with no detectable vignetting. Built with a patented optics system which expands the image circle of your UWA lenses, the Laowa Magic Shift Converter turns the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens into a 17mm f/4 Zero-D lens with +/- 10mm shift capability. Additionally, the MSC comes with a 360° rotation structure which allows photographers to shoot in both horizontal and portrait orientation. Weighing in at 360 grams, the Laowa Magic Shift Converter features five elements in four groups. Shipping is expected to commence in late July / early August.

UK Optics have launched the advanced Novo Excel Pro 77mm ND-8-2000 variable ND filter. Providing a light reduction of about 3 to 11 stops (ND8 to ND2000), the Novo Excel Pro 77mm ND-8-2000 filter enables photographers to use a wider aperture or slower shutter speed for creative effects. Manufactured from 'Super White' German Schott glass, the filter boasts nano multi-coatings as well as additional specialised coatings. The NOVO Excel Pro Vari-ND features a ultra slim black almite frame, and a front filter thread of 82mm, designed to avoid vignetting even on ultra-wide angle lenses.

The Novo MVS-01 Monopod Stand is a universal three legged stand that connects directly to the bottom of any monopod that features a 1/4" mount. To attach the stand to the monopod, users simply unscrew the foot and spike at the base of the monopod and replace it by screwing in the MVS-01 Monopod Stand. To remove, push the silver release button on each leg and unscrew or leave it on and fold back the legs so the stand can then be carried as part of the monopod and is always ready for use. Additionally, it can also be used as a table top mini tripod due to a swivel and panning mini head that also locks when used as a monopod stand.

The advanced Novo Excel Pro Circular Polariser boasts nano multi-coatings and additional specialised coatings to provide a water and oil repellent, scratch resistance surface. Featuring an ultra-slim black almite frame, at just 7mm, helping to avoid any vignetting on ultra wide angle lenses. The special multi-coated optics ensure optimum image quality, minimising unwanted optical artefacts such as ghosting and internal reflections, and maximising light transmission. Additionally, the Novo Excel Pro Circular Polarisers offer a light loss of only 1.3 stops. The filters are available in sizes ranging from 40.5mm to 86mm.