We take a look at the key differences between the Leica TL2 and Leica TL cameras...

The Leica TL2 is a new APS-C compact system camera that is precisely machined from a single block of aluminium. With a newly developed 24-megapixel CMOS sensor and Maestro II series high-performance image processor, the Leica TL2 also builds on the previous TL camera by incorporating 4K video recording, 20fps continuous shooting using the new electronically controlled shutter, and faster auto-focusing and startup times. The Leica TL2 will be offered in a choice of two different colours, black and silver, for £1700 / $1950 body only, with sales starting today (10th July 2017).

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.

UK Optics have annpunced the Novo Excel Pro UV filters. These water- and oil-repellent, scratch resistant, nano multi-coated filters are manufactured from 'Super White' German Schott glass, thus offering a light transmission greater than 99.3%. The new Novo Excel Pro UV filters are available in sizes ranging from 40.5mm to 86mm.

Flints Auctioneers specialising in cameras, scientific & medical instruments as well as early technology has now opened for business in London. The new auction house will hold at least four Fine sales a year offering cameras from the earliest wet plate examples through to modern 35mm ones, and antique scientific and medical instruments. In addition, three annual Collectors sales will offer more affordable pieces as well as group lots. The auctions will be held in London at Stoke Newington West Reservoir Centre, Green Lanes, London N4 2HA.

Fantasea Line have introduced a selection of products designed to enhance lighting of underwater images and videos, including LED Strobe Triggers, Fiber Optic Cables and a powerful video light. Featuring an ergonomic design and a built-in YS connector, the Radiant 3000F Video Light (pictured) offers a variety of operation modes, which make the light suitable to light a wide range of classic and creative compositions. Operation modes include flood light (100 degrees), spot light (15 degrees), red light, Ultra Violet (UV) & Blue light and two flashing modes (constant and SOS) that can serve for signaling / SOS purposes. Depth rated to 100 metres/330 feet, the Radiant 3000F makes use of 3 powerful LEDs for red light, 4 LEDs for UV & blue light, one X-PL LED for spot light and a new Cob (chip-on-board) LED array for flood light, which provides an impressively bright, wide and even beam. The FA-1 LED Strobe Trigger and the FA-2 LED Strobe Trigger  trigger underwater strobes and flashes to fire in sync with the camera using fiber optic cables, such as the Fiber Optic Cable A1 and the Fiber Optic Cable B2. Click through / read on for the details.

The first Historic Photographer of the Year Awards is now open to amateur and professional photographers around the world. Celebrating the very best historic places and cultural sites across the globe, the Historic Photographer of the Year Awards is a joint venture between two cultural brands, Trip Historic, the leading online travel guide to the world’s historic sites, and History Hit which brings unique content and insight from some of the UK’s best known historians and academics. Judging all entries will be a panel of experts including broadcaster and historian Dan Snow, All About History Magazine Editor-in-Chief James Hoare and David Gilbert, Chair of Creative United. Commenting on the Awards, Dan Snow said: “‘All of us on the panel of judges want to be wowed! We want to see images that astonish, evoke emotion and inspire people to visit new, exciting and fascinating places, not just in the UK but all over the world. The best advice I can give is that your shots should be original, beautiful and unique. Above all, we want you to tell the story of the world’s ancient landmarks through your sensational photography.” By taking part, photographers will get the chance to win a prize of £2,500 and have their winning image showcased across the media.

Canon today unveiled an exciting new urban art exhibition at London’s Pop Brixton as part of a Europe-wide initiative that highlights the importance of photojournalism in telling the stories that need to be told. The exhibition documents the trials and tribulations of being a Grime artist in London, a genre enjoying a breakout period following its recent success scooping a Mercury Prize in September. The story was captured on the EOS 5D Mark IV, by Reuters award-winning photojournalist, Paul Hackett. To bring the images to life, Canon has teamed up with art installation group, Remain Different. Through their work, Paul’s unique story is shared with the public by incorporating his powerful imagery with Pop Brixton’s unique architecture including shipping containers, concrete arches and staircases.. The exhibition is on display from 5th –  16th July.

TH Swiss have announced the official launch of their Irix Edge series of screw-in filters, including UV & Protector, Circular Polariser and ND filters with various densities. The Irix Edge UV & Protector (€76) filter offers extraordinary light transmission thanks to its high-quality optical glass and multi-layer anti-reflective coating. Its additional waterproof Nano coating helps keeping the glass surface free of stains and water droplets. Irix UV filter also provides decent protection of the front lens under extreme circumstances. The Irix Edge Circular Polariser (€105) reduces reflections from non-metallic surfaces, emphasizes details and increases colour density of the pictures. Thanks to the slim and ultralight aluminium frame with knurled edges, filter is easy to operate through filter window and causes no vignetting on the Irix 15mm f/2.4 lens. Last but not least, the Irix Edge ND filters (€115-€117) are available in 3-stop, 5-stop, 7-stop and 10-stop versions.

LockCircle have announced their PRO M.95 system - a kit of 95mm three Front Mount Cinema Standard adapter rings - for the Zeiss Otus 28/55/85mm lenses. The PRO M.95 adapter rings are CNC machined from billet aluminium and anodised to match the lenses' surface finish. The kit also includes graphic coded front and rear caps. The PRO M.95 system is available now at prices starting from $149 + shipping.

The Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers (SINWP) have announced the winners of the Creatures Great and Small Photography Competition. A photo by Michelle Howell from West Yorkshire, England was chosen as the overall winner. Shot on a Nikon D5100 with a Tamron SP 90mm F2.8 Di VC USD Macro 1:1 F004N lens, the winning image (reprinted above) is a macro shot of an Argentinean Ornate Horned Frog, taken in a reflection pool. Phil Jones, the Societies CEO said, “June's competition did not disappoint with the quality of images entered. Michelle's image of the horned frog captured the theme of the competition brilliantly.’’ Runners-up include Sheri Emerson from Newfoundland, Canada and Stuart Walker from Essex, England

Independent developer Alexey Khutorschikov has announced Desqueeze 1.5, an important update to his iPhone app that lets users re-format, re-size and de-squeeze a batch of photos and videos using presets or custom size up to 8192x8192 pixels and 4K, respectively. This update brings a number of improvements including a more streamlined graphical user interface, the ability to create, edit and use Templates, as well as enhanced stability and sharing options. Desqueeze 1.5 is available free of charge through the App Store in the Photo and Video category. Certain features require an upgrade to the PRO version, which is available as in-app purchase for $2.99.

Billingham have launched a new range of elegant travel bags. Carrying the signature Billingham logo embossed into leather on the front, these premium bags are built from weather-resistant FibreNyte canvas for exceptional durability and protection from the elements. The new Billingham Leisure Collection includes the Weekender and Overnighter bags and the Thomas briefcase/laptop bag. Each bag features solid brass fittings and is offered in a selection of classic colours with complementary leather tones, including Sage & Chocolate, Black & Tan, Khaki & Chocolate and All-Black. Designed for fast and efficient packing, the Weekender (£225) can be fully unzipped through its entire length using the strong double pullers, and the clever turnover top allows the sides to be peeled backwards completely to create the widest possible opening. Slightly smaller than the Weekender, and ideal for a short break or even as a smart gym or work bag, the compact Overnighter (£185) provides generous capacity for everyday essentials. Last but not least, the padded Thomas briefcase (£225) features multiple interior pockets to organise a host of accessories, and has been designed to accommodate most 15” laptops. All bags are available now from authorised Billingham stockists.