Category: Lenses

Monday, March 20, 2017

Meyer-Optik has announced that its new lens, the Trioplan 35+, will be available in five different colours. Besides the traditional black, the Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 will also come in red, green, blue and Titanium -- but only in limited numbers as a special reward option on Kickstarter. “Photography is more than black and white and so these new lenses are more than that, too,” said Dr. Stefan Immes, CEO of Meyer-Optik-Görlitz. “The new colours are strictly limited in quantity and, therefore, a real collector’s item.”

Meyer-Optik has announced that its new lens, the Trioplan 35+, will be available in five different colours. Besides the traditional black, the Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 will also come in red, green, blue and Titanium -- but only in limited numbers as a special reward option on Kickstarter. “Photography is more…

Friday, March 17, 2017

Sigma Corporation of America today revealed availability and pricing details for its 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens (pictured). Ideal for events such as concerts, indoor sports, conferences, weddings and studio/location portraiture; the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is highly capable of isolating your subject from the background. Its new large hyper sonic motor (HSM) provides ample torque to the focus group for optimal speed while the acceleration sensor detects the position of the lens for compensation focus groups for factors including gravity, producing faster and more responsive AF. Equipped with a focus limiter, the 135mm F1.8 Art can be easily optimised for a variety of camera-to-subject distances. Making its public debut at the 2017 CP+ Camera + Photo Imaging Show in Yokohama, Japan in February 2017, the 135mm F1.8 Art lens will begin shipping in May 2017 at an estimated retail price of $1399.

Sigma Corporation of America today revealed availability and pricing details for its 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens (pictured). Ideal for events such as concerts, indoor sports, conferences, weddings and studio/location portraiture; the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is highly capable of isolating your subject from the background. Its…

Monday, March 13, 2017

Venus Optics today released a video promoting the Sony version of the Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D lens. Billed as the fastest 15mm lens for Sony full-frame cameras, the Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D measures 82x66mm, takes 72mm filters, and weighs in at 500 grams. The metal-bodied manual-focus lens features an aperture click switch, enabling both stepped and clickless aperture operation for both stills photography and videography. "With [an] f/2 aperture and 110-degree angle of view, together with Sony's impressive sensors, this lens is perfect for astrophotography, aurora, interiors and nightscapes," the company said in a statement. "Also, the 72mm filter thread allows quick installation of filters for landscape shooting." Availability is slated for Q2 2017.

Click through / scroll down to watch the official video.

Venus Optics today released a video promoting the Sony version of the Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D lens. Billed as the fastest 15mm lens for Sony full-frame cameras, the Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D measures 82x66mm, takes 72mm filters, and weighs in at 500 grams. The metal-bodied manual-focus lens features…

Thursday, March 9, 2017

Meyer-Optik-Görlitz today embarked on a Kickstarter campaign to help commercialise the launch of the third lens of the Trioplan trilogy -- a 35mm f/2.8 optic that brings the signature “soap bubble” bokeh to a wide angle lens. Dubbed the Trioplan 35+, the new lens will join the Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 and 50mm f/2.9 in Meyer-Optik’s line-up of Triopan branded manual-focus lenses. But while Meyer-Optik engineers designed the new lens according to the historic Cook Triplet design, they added a couple of extra elements - which is why Meyer-Optik decided to add the “+” to the name of the lens. “The Trioplan 35+ will be unrivalled in its ability to capture the spirit and emotion of the moment,” says Dr. Stefan Immes, CEO of Meyer-Optik. “Photography is not just about squeezing the most pixels into a square inch – it’s about creating art.” Through the Kickstarter project, Meyer-Optik offers backers the chance to be first in line to receive the new Trioplan 35+, which is expected to go into serial production in October of this year.

Meyer-Optik-Görlitz today embarked on a Kickstarter campaign to help commercialise the launch of the third lens of the Trioplan trilogy -- a 35mm f/2.8 optic that brings the signature “soap bubble” bokeh to a wide angle lens. Dubbed the Trioplan 35+, the new lens will join the Trioplan 100mm f/2.…

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Canon is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the launch of its Electro Optical System (EOS), which includes EOS-series interchangeable-lens cameras and a diverse range of system accessories. The system debuted in March 1987 with the launch of the EOS 650 SLR camera and EF lenses, making EOS cameras the World’s first to incorporate an electronic mount system, representing a new generation of auto focus SLR cameras. Currently, the EOS system, including the Cinema EOS system, comprises 24 models with a selection of 97 EF lenses. To mark this milestone, Canon is displaying a range of cameras and lenses from the EOS archive on its stand at The Photography Show, including the EOS 650 and the EF 1200mm f/5.6L USM, the world’s longest focal length and largest aperture lens. Visit Canon on stand D141/E131 at The Photography Show from 18th – 21st March at the NEC in Birmingham.

Canon is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the launch of its Electro Optical System (EOS), which includes EOS-series interchangeable-lens cameras and a diverse range of system accessories. The system debuted in March 1987 with the launch of the EOS 650 SLR camera and EF lenses, making EOS cameras the World’s…

Thursday, March 2, 2017

TH Swiss have officially announced the launch of the Irix 11mm f/4 lens. First unveiled at Photokina, the Irix 11mm f/4 is an extremely wide full frame rectalinear lens with an angle of view of 126°. It employs 4 high-refractive lens elements, 2 ED lenses and 3 aspherical elements to guarantee very low distortion, as low as 3.13%, which makes Irix 11mm f/4.0 lens unique in its class. The special Blackstone version of the lens has engraved UV light reactive markings enable easy operation in low light conditions to facilitate the perfect photo. The Irix 11mm f/4.0 will be available to buy during The Photography Show in Birmingham (18-21 March 2017) priced at €635 (Firefly edition) / €865 (Blackstone version).

TH Swiss have officially announced the launch of the Irix 11mm f/4 lens. First unveiled at Photokina, the Irix 11mm f/4 is an extremely wide full frame rectalinear lens with an angle of view of 126°. It employs 4 high-refractive lens elements, 2 ED lenses and 3 aspherical elements to…

Tuesday, February 28, 2017

The XCD 3.5/120mm Macro is a new lens for the Hasselblad X1D medium-format camera. Weighing in at 970g, the Hasselblad XCD 3.5/120mm Macro lens offers a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:2 and a minimum object distance of 43cm, as measured from the image plane. Like the other XCD lenses, XCD 120mm Macro lens has an integral central shutter offering a wide range of shutter speeds and full flash synchronization up to 1/2000th of a second. Over the next 12 months, Hasselblad will also launch the XCD 35-75mm Zoom, XCD 65mm, and XCD 22mm Wide Angle lenses. By the beginning of 2018, Hasselblad X1D users will have access to seven dedicated XCD lenses and all twelve HC/HCD lenses using the XH lens adapter. Prices will be announced at launch.

The XCD 3.5/120mm Macro is a new lens for the Hasselblad X1D medium-format camera. Weighing in at 970g, the Hasselblad XCD 3.5/120mm Macro lens offers a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:2 and a minimum object distance of 43cm, as measured from the image plane. Like the other XCD lenses, XCD…

Friday, February 24, 2017

Ricoh has announced the development of a new 50mm lens for Pentax K-mount cameras. According to the company, this will be a high-performance Star (★)-series full- lens with a high resolving power, high contrast and beautiful bokeh. A mock-up of the lens is currently on display at the CP+ 2017 trade show, which is being held at the Pacifico Yokohama convention centre in Japan.

Ricoh has announced the development of a new 50mm lens for Pentax K-mount cameras. According to the company, this will be a high-performance Star (★)-series full- lens with a high resolving power, high contrast and beautiful bokeh. A mock-up of the lens is currently on display at the CP+ 201…

Thursday, February 23, 2017

The Fantasea UWL-09F wet wide angle conversion lens for compact, mirrorless and SLR underwater housings is now available to purchase. According to the manufacturer, the UWL-09F offers unmatched quality with 5 multi-layered precision optic elements. The combination of a super wide field of view (130 degrees) and zero minimal focus distance provide unlimited opportunities for image framing and creative compositions, including close-focus wide-angle images. The lens barrel is made from durable aluminium alloy with black coating. The dome is covered with hard coating as well, protecting it from easily getting scratched or damaged. The lens features a 67mm thread mount, compatible with most housings available in the market today. The base of the mount is covered with a rubber ring, providing a firm grip of the lens during installation and removal. Non-corrosive front and rear lens caps are included in the box. A quality padded carrying case allows safe storage and transportation. Weighing in at 1033g/36.4oz, the Fantasea UWL-09F wide-angle conversion lens is depth rated to 60m / 200ft. Available now, the lens carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $799.95.

The Fantasea UWL-09F wet wide angle conversion lens for compact, mirrorless and SLR underwater housings is now available to purchase. According to the manufacturer, the UWL-09F offers unmatched quality with 5 multi-layered precision optic elements. The combination of a super wide field of view (130 degrees) and zero minimal focus…

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Fujifilm have unveiled the MK series of new cinema lenses, offering a fast maximum aperture of T2.9 across the entire zoom range plus a 9-bladed iris diaphragm enabling a shallow depth-of-field as well as a beautiful bokeh effect. The lenses are compatible with E-mount cameras with a Super 35mm / APS-C sensor and the X-mount used in Fujifilm’s X-Series of digital cameras. The lenses feature three rings to enable manual and independent adjustment of focus, zoom and aperture. The Fujinon MK18-55mm T2.9 standard zoom lens will be the first MK lens to be released in early March 2017, priced at $3,799.95. In summer, this will be followed by the launch of the Fujinon MK50-135mm T2.9, a telephoto zoom lens offering a focal length range of 50-135mm. Both lenses have the same front diameter (85mm), length (206.3mm), and weight (980g), but the 18-55mm lens can focus closer (85cm vs. 120cm in regular mode, and 38cm vs. 85cm in macro mode).

Fujifilm have unveiled the MK series of new cinema lenses, offering a fast maximum aperture of T2.9 across the entire zoom range plus a 9-bladed iris diaphragm enabling a shallow depth-of-field as well as a beautiful bokeh effect. The lenses are compatible with E-mount cameras with a Super 35mm /…

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG HSM OS Contemporary telephoto zoom lens boasts and optical image stabiliser, fast AF and a dust- and splash-proof construction. Highly versatile, the 100-400mm F5-6.3 Contemporary also features Sigma’s unique macro function (with a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3.8), and a push/pull zooming mechanism for ease of use. The all-new Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG HSM OS Contemporary lens supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts and works with Sigma’s MC-11 Sony E-mount converter. The Nikon variant features a brand new electromagnetic diaphragm. Pricing and availability for the lens will be announced later.

The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG HSM OS Contemporary telephoto zoom lens boasts and optical image stabiliser, fast AF and a dust- and splash-proof construction. Highly versatile, the 100-400mm F5-6.3 Contemporary also features Sigma’s unique macro function (with a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3.8), and a push/pull zooming mechanism for ease…

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG HSM OS Art is a new stabilised standard zoom for full-frame cameras. Featuring a brand new optical stabiliser and highly efficient and fast AF system, the revamped 24-70mm F2.8 Art covers a wide range of shooting scenarios, the lens includes three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements and four aspherical elements to reduce chromatic aberration. The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG HSM OS Art supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts and works with Sigma’s MC-11 Sony E-mount converter. The Nikon version features the brand new electromagnetic diaphragm. Pricing and availability will be announced later.

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG HSM OS Art is a new stabilised standard zoom for full-frame cameras. Featuring a brand new optical stabiliser and highly efficient and fast AF system, the revamped 24-70mm F2.8 Art covers a wide range of shooting scenarios, the lens includes three SLD (Special Low Dispersion)…

The Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is an ultra-fast standard telephoto prime lens for Canon, Nikon and Sigma cameras.. Ideal for events such as concerts, indoor sports, conferences, weddings and studio/location portraiture; the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is highly capable of isolating your subject from the background. Its new large hyper sonic motor (HSM) provides ample torque to the focus group for optimal speed while the acceleration sensor detects the position of the lens for compensation focus groups for factors including gravity, producing faster and more responsive AF. Equipped with a focus limiter, the 135mm F1.8 Art can be easily optimised for a variety of camera-to-subject distances. Pricing and availability for the Sigma 135mm F1.8 Art lens will be announced later.

The Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is an ultra-fast standard telephoto prime lens for Canon, Nikon and Sigma cameras.. Ideal for events such as concerts, indoor sports, conferences, weddings and studio/location portraiture; the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is highly capable of isolating your subject from the background…

The Sigma 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is the World’s first f/1.8 ultra-wide-angle lens. Boasting outstanding image quality from centre to edge, the 14mm F1.8 Art features the largest glass mold (80mm) in the industry, offering photographers an ultra-wide prime with virtually no distortion, flare or ghosting. Three lens elements are made with FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass, which is equivalent to calcium fluorite in performance, and four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements, which reduce chromatic aberration. The all new Sigma 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts and works with Sigma’s MC-11 Sony E-mount converter. The Nikon mounts feature the brand new electromagnetic diaphragm. Pricing and availability for the lens will be announced later.

The Sigma 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art is the World’s first f/1.8 ultra-wide-angle lens. Boasting outstanding image quality from centre to edge, the 14mm F1.8 Art features the largest glass mold (80mm) in the industry, offering photographers an ultra-wide prime with virtually no distortion, flare or ghosting. Three lens elements…

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Want to see exactly what the new Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens looks like in the flesh?

Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens.

Want to see exactly what the new Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens looks like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens.

Want to see exactly what the new Sony FE 85mm F1.8 lens looks like in the flesh?

Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Sony FE 85mm F1.8 lens.

Want to see exactly what the new Sony FE 85mm F1.8 lens looks like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Sony FE 85mm F1.8 lens.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Want to see exactly what the new Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens looks like in the flesh?

Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens.

Want to see exactly what the new Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens looks like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens.

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

According to Canon U.S.A., an estimated 75 percent of the photographers covering the Big Game between the teams from New England and Atlanta used Canon EOS DSLR cameras and EF lenses in the Houston stadium. “It’s an honor to see yet another major sporting event where the country’s most talented and acclaimed sports photographers captured exciting moments with Canon equipment. These images will be seen by millions of people around the world and will forever be etched in sports history. We understand there are many equipment options for professional photographers and Canon is honoured to serve these professionals and provide assurances that both our products and support live up to the requirements and expectations of our devoted customers,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A.

According to Canon U.S.A., an estimated 75 percent of the photographers covering the Big Game between the teams from New England and Atlanta used Canon EOS DSLR cameras and EF lenses in the Houston stadium. “It’s an honor to see yet another major sporting event where the country’s most talented…

At BVE 2017, Zeiss will be showcasing a wide variety of cinematography and photography lenses, paired with a number of market leading cameras such as the RED Epic-W 8K, Sony FS7 and ARRI Amira. These will include the new Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3, the company's range of Cinema Zoom CZ.2 lenses and Compact Prime CP.2 lenses, as well as the Otus, Milvus, Batis, Loxia and Touit family of lenses designed for Canon, Nikon, Sony E and Fuji X-mount camera systems. In addition to displaying their products, Zeiss will be giving visitors to the stand the chance to enter a competition to win a brand new ExoLens Pro Wide-Angle lens for their smartphones.

At BVE 2017, Zeiss will be showcasing a wide variety of cinematography and photography lenses, paired with a number of market leading cameras such as the RED Epic-W 8K, Sony FS7 and ARRI Amira. These will include the new Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3, the company's range of Cinema Zoom CZ.2 lenses…

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 is a new mid-telephoto prime lens for full-frame Sony cameras. The lens features a 9-bladed circular aperture mechanism that ensures smooth, natural looking bokeh, and a double linear motor system to allow for fast, precise and quiet focusing. It also has a focus hold button that can be customised and assigned together with functions in the camera body like the popular Eye-AF feature. There is a smooth, responsive focus ring and AF/MF switch and the lens is also dust and moisture resistant. The Sony FE 85mm F1.8 will be priced at approximately £550. Availability is slated for March 2017.

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 is a new mid-telephoto prime lens for full-frame Sony cameras. The lens features a 9-bladed circular aperture mechanism that ensures smooth, natural looking bokeh, and a double linear motor system to allow for fast, precise and quiet focusing. It also has a focus hold button…