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Panasonic have finally entered the super-telephoto fray with the launch of the exciting new Lumix S 100-500mm F5-7.1 O.I.S. full-frame lens. Is this the ultimate telephoto zoom lens that L-mount camera users have been waiting for? Find out now in our in-depth review complete with full-size sample images.
The Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM Z is a brand new telephoto zoom lens for EOS R full-frame mirrorless cameras. Read our Canon 70-200mm F2.8 Z review so far, complete with full-size sample images, to find out if it's worth the asking price...
The RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM is a new ultra-telephoto zoom lens for Canon EOS R-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Is this the perfect all-in-one super-telephoto lens for all aspiring wildlife and sports photographers? Read our Canon RF 200-800mm review so far to find out...
The RF 100-300mm F2.8L IS USM is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon EOS R-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Is this the ultimate telephoto zoom lens for wildlife and sports photographers? Read our Canon RF 100-300mm review now to find out...
As the spiritual successor to the popular D850 DSLR, the new Z8 full-frame mirrorless camera could turn out to be one of the most important products that Nikon have ever released. Read our in-depth Nikon Z8 review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos, to find out more about this mirrorless marvel...
The Sony A7R V is a powerful new 61 megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera designed for both stills photography and video.
Key features include 8K 24/25p video and 4K video oversampled from 6.2K without binning, up to 8 stops of image stabilisation, a new AI processing unit which allows for advanced subject recognition through deep learning, and a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor.
The new Sony A7R V will be available in December 2022 priced at €4,500 / £3,999 / $3,900 in Europe, the UK and US respectively.
The Nikon Z9 is a professional level, full-frame mirrorless camera for photographers and videographers that features a 45 megapixel stacked BSI sensor, 8K/30p and 4K/120p video recording, 30fps burst shooting and a dual-grip design. Read our in-depth Nikon Z9 review complete with full-size sample photos and videos to find out just what this flagship camera is capable of...
The new Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is the first ever super-telephoto lens for Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras. But has it been worth the rather long wait? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z 100-400mm review, complete with full-size sample photos...
The Canon EOS R3 is a professional full-frame mirrorless camera for sports and action photographers that features a 24 megapixel stacked BSI sensor, 6K/60p Raw and 4K/120p video recording, 30fps burst shooting, eye-control autofocusing and a dual-grip design. Read our in-depth Canon R3 review complete with full-size sample photos and videos to find out just what the all-action R3 is capable of...
Canon has just announced firmware updates for the EOS R5 (firmware v1.50), EOS R6 (firmware v1.50) and EOS-1D X Mark III (firmware v1.60) mirrorless cameras which add several key features from the flagship EOS R3, including vehicle recognition when autofocusing.
The EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS-1D X Mark III firmware updates will be available to download from 2nd December 2021.
Canon have just unveiled two brand new lenses for EOS R full-frame mirrorless cameras, an ultra-wide-angle prime and a super-telephoto zoom.
The RF 16mm f2.8 STM is an ultra-wide angle prime lens that is the same size as the RF 50mm f1.8, making it well-suited to vlogging and astrophotography.
Weighing just 635g, the RF 100-400mm f5.6-8 IS USM is a lightweight, compact super-telephoto lens designed for budding sports and wildlife photographers.
The RF 16mm F1.8 STM is priced at £319.99 / €369.99 / $299.99 and the RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM will cost £699.99 / €799.99 / $649.99.
The new RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM is the widest full-frame mirrorless Canon lens to date.
It offers quiet autofocus, 5.5-stop optical image stabilisation and a class leading minimum focus distance of 0.2m and a 0.38x magnification, and weighs just 540g.
The Canon RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM is scheduled to be available in August 2021 priced at £1,749.99 / €1,999.99 / $1,699.00.
The EOS M50 Mark II is Canon's newest entry-level mirrorless camera for 2021. With 4K/25p and 1080/60p video modes, a flippy LCD screen and a number of vlogger-friendly improvements, plus a 24 megapixel APS-C sensor, 10fps burst shooting and Canon's excellent Dual Pixel AF system, could it be the perfect affordable camera for YouTubers, TikTokers and stills photographers alike? Find out now by reading our Canon EOS M50 Mark II review...
The RF 70-200mm F4L is a brand new telephoto zoom lens for Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras that's smaller and more affordable than the F2.8 version. Read our in-depth Canon RF 70-200mm F4L lens review, complete with a gallery of full-size sample images, to find out what this remarkable lens is capable of...
Sony sell a huge range of premium cameras, covering everything from compacts to APS-C and full-frame mirrorless models. Here is our definitive guide to the very best Sony cameras that you can buy today.
Canon are introducing two new RF lenses today - the the RF 50mm F1.8 STM and RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM.
The RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM is the world’s shortest and lightest f/4 interchangeable lens in its focal range. It weighs just 695 grams and measures 11.9cm long. It has a Dual Nano USM focusing motor, just like the F2.8 version, up to 7.5-stops of image stabilisation when used with the EOS R5 and EOS R6, 3 different IS modes and is fully weatherproof.
The RF 50mm F1.8 STM is the newest ‘nifty fifty’ lens, succeeding Canon’s EF 50mm f/1.8 STM. The RF 50mm offers better image quality than the EF version, and is quieter too. It features 7 stops of image stabilisation when used on the EOS R5/6 cameras, a metal mount and a de-clicked control ring.
The RF 50mm F1.8 STM is priced at £219.99 / €249.99 / $199.99 and the RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM will cost £1699.99 / €1969.99 / $1599.99.
The EOS-1D X Mark III is Canon's flagship DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photographers. With a price tag of £6499 / $6499, does it have what it takes to outpace the likes of the Nikon D6 and the Sony A9 II? Read our Canon 1D X Mark III to review to find out...
The RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon EOS R-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Is this the perfect all-in-one super-telephoto zoom lens for wildlife and sports photographers? Read our Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM review now to find out...
The Canon EOS 850D is that rare thing - a new DSLR camera in 2020. In a world where mirrorless cameras rule (well, almost), can the Canon 850D still cut it? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 850D review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The EOS R5 has been the hottest full-frame camera on the block ever since Canon pre-announced it back at the start of 2020, thanks to its headline grabbing twin features of a 45 megapixel sensor and 8K video recording. We've seen it a few times since then, but now we can finally bring you our final Canon R5 review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos!
Ahead of our full review, here are some sample JPEG and RAW images and 8K and 4K videos taken with the brand new Canon EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera. All of the images were taken with a full production version of the EOS R5 and the RF 15-35mm, 24-70mm and 70-200mm F2.8 lenses.
Nikon have unveiled two new teleconverters, the traditional 1.4x and 2x variants, for their NIKKOR Z range of full-frame mirrorless camera lenses.
The first lens to be compatible with these teleconverters is the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S, which hasn't actually been released. We can probably expect the teleconverters and 70-200mm to be launched alongside each other sometime in "late Summer 2020".
Nikon have promised that "as the NIKKOR Z lens line-up expands, more lenses will be compatible with the Z Teleconverters", which seems to suggest that they aren't compatible with any of the Z lenses that have already been released.
Pricing is somewhat predictably on the eye-wateringly high side - £549 | €649 for the 1.4x and £599 | €699 for the 2x.
Note that Nikon have significantly one-upped Canon by releasing teleconverters that actually work with their 70-200mm f/2.8 mirrorless lens...
We've spent a little time with the new Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x for Canon's full-frame mirrorless cameras, so ahead of our full review, check out our first impressions now...
The Nikon D6 is the 2020 update of Nikon's flagship DSLR camera for professional sports, press and nature photographers. Is this the best DSLR that Nikon have ever made? Find out by reading our in-depth Nikon D6 review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM is a brand new professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras. Read our in-depth Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM lens review to find out if it's a must-have lens for Canon EOS R camera owners, complete with a gallery of full-size sample images...
Techart have just unveiled the Canon EF - Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter, retaining auto-focus and lens stabilization of EF-mount lens on Nikon Z6/Z7 cameras.
The Techart Canon EF to Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter is available for order now priced at $249.
The RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM is a new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for Canon's EOS R and RP cameras. Is this an essential lens for all Canon full-frame mirrorless users? Find out now by reading our Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM review, complete with full-size sample images...
A fast 24-70mm zoom is the staple lens of any self-respecting camera system, so it's no surprise to see Canon release the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM for their EOS R / RP cameras. Is this an essential lens for all Canon full-frame mirrorless users? Find out now by reading our Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM review, complete with full-size sample images...
The new Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM DS is a complementary lens to the RF 85mm F1.2L USM, with a unique DS coating to achieve a softer bokeh look.
With its shallow depth of field capabilities, it’s an ideal choice for capturing portrait shots with smooth backgrounds and drawing attention and focus on the subject.
The Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM DS will be available from the start of December 2019 priced at £3,249.99 / €3799.99.
Completing Canon’s F2.8L trinity series for the mirrorless RF mount, the new RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM is the world's shortest and lightest lens with a focal length of 70-200mm and maximum aperture of f/2.8 for 35mm full-frame cameras.
The Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM will be available from the start of December 2019 priced at £2,699.99 / €3149.99.
Want to see exactly what the new Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM mirrorless camera lens looks like in the flesh?
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM mirrorless camera lens, including a side-by-side comparison with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM DSLR lens.
2019 is Olympus' official Centenary year (Congratulations!), and following the launch of the E-M1X camera back in the Spring, the company are now reportedly gearing up for the launch of a much more affordable successor to the popular OM-D E-M5 Mark II (pictured), somewhat predictably called the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Read on for everything that we know so far...
Update 1: Internet giant Amazon has now confirmed the price and launch date of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III - it will apparently cost £1,355.60 and be available on November 18th 2019. It will feature re-engineered 5-axis image stabilisation for handheld shooting, a new OLED electronic viewfinder, and be weather-resistant. Amazon have predictably pulled the leaked product page...
Update 2: The full specifications and US price for the E-M5 Mark III have now been leaked by 4/3rumors.
The Canon EOS 90D is that increasingly rare thing, a new DSLR camera. Aimed at sport and wildlife photographers, the Canon 90D uses a new 32 megapixel APS-C sensor and the latest generation DIGIC 8 processor. Read our in-depth Canon EOS 90D review to find out if a DSLR camera can still cut it in the mirrorless world of 2019...
Canon has just unveiled the first of its trinity RF F2.8L lenses, expanding the pioneering RF lens line-up for the EOS R System, with the launch of the RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM and RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM.
Both lenses will be available in September 2019 priced at £2,329.99 / €2,749.99 / $2,299.99 each.
The EF 70-200mm F4L IS II USM is a significantly upgraded version of Canon's popular 70-200mm F4 lens for full-frame and APS-C sensor DSLR cameras. Read our in-depth Canon EF 70-200mm F4L IS II USM review to find out just what the new Mark II version has to offer, complete with full-size sample images...
The EF 70-200mm F2.8L IS III USM is a refreshed version of Canon's extremely popular 70-200mm F2.8 lens for DSLR cameras. Read our in-depth Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8L IS III USM lens review to find out just what this update has to offer and if it still out-performs its rivals, complete with full-size sample images...
Ahead of our full review, here are some full-size JPEG and Raw sample images taken with the brand new Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8L IS III USM lens. The Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8L IS III USM is a professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras.
Ahead of our full review, here are some full-size JPEG and Raw sample images taken with the brand new Canon EF 70-200mm F4L IS II USM lens. The Canon EF 70-200mm F4L IS II USM is a professional telephoto zoom lens for Canon full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras.
The new Metabones EF-EOS M Speed Booster ULTRA 0.71x makes full-frame Canon EF-mount lenses one stop faster, 0.71x wider and with increased MFT on Canon EOS M cameras.
The Lumix S Pro 70-200mm F4 O.I.S. is a classic telephoto zoom lens for Panasonic's brand new range of full-frame mirrorless cameras, the S1 and S1R. Is this a must-have lens for all new Lumix S1/S1R owners? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S Pro 70-200mm F4 O.I.S. review...
The Canon EOS 250D / Rebel SL3 is a new entry-level DSLR aimed at people buying their first interchangeable lens camera. It improves on the previous EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 model principally by implementing 4K video recording, a better live view mode, more sophisticated auto-focusing, and longer battery life. Is this the best interchangeable lens camera for beginners? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 250D review...
Canon are showcasing six new RF-mount full-frame mirrorless lenses at The Photography Show 2019 in Birmingham, UK.
Check out our extensive gallery of photos of the new Canon RF lenses and the redesigned Canon stand.
Panasonic have enjoyed a lot of success with their Micro Four Thirds camera range, and now they've turned their attention to the full-frame market with the release of the exciting new Lumix S1R. This is a 47 megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera with 187 megapixel high resolution mode, class leading electronic viewfinder, 6-stop IBIS, and a robust weatherproof body. Read our in-depth Panasonic S1R review now to find out more about this impressive camera...
The Canon EOS RP is a new full-frame mirrorless camera, offering 26 megapixels and using the Canon RF lens mount.
We were shown a final version of the EOS RP by Canon ahead of today's launch. We weren't allowed to take any photos with the camera or of the presentation slides, but did get some hands-on time with the EOS RP.
So read on for our initial first impressions of the new Canon EOS RP full frame mirrorless camera...
Canon has announced the development of six new lenses for the EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera system for release in 2019. They are the Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM, Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM DS, Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM, Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM, Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM and the Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM.
Panasonic have released an updated lens roadmap for their L-mount full-frame lenses.
In addition to the three lenses that have already been announced today, Panasonic will launch 3 more new lenses in 2019 - a 24-70mm F2.8, 70-200mm F2.8 and 16-35mm F4 - plus 1.4x and 2x teleconverters.
Then in 2020 they will add a super telephoto lens, 2 fixed focal length lenses and a macro lens to their L-mount range, bringing the total to 10.
In a separate announcement at the launch of the Panasonic S1R and Panasonic S1 cameras, Sigma have revealed that they will release 14 new L-mount lenses by the end of 2019, plus a Canon EF/Sigma SA converter.
In total, together with Leica's existing range, this means there will be 42 L-mount lenses available by the end of 2020, an impressive start to the new L-mount alliance.
The Panasonic S1R and Panasonic S1 are two new full-frame mirrorless cameras, offering 47 megapixels and 24 megapixels respectively and using the Leica L-mount. In development for the last 4 years, the Lumix S Series promises to offer “Full frame without compromise”.
We were shown a very early prototype version of the S1R/S1 back in September 2018 by Panasonic. We weren't allowed to take any photos of the camera or presentation slides, such was the high level of secrecy at the time.
Early prototype versions of the S1R and S1 were then displayed under glass at Photokina 2018, with a promised simultaneous launch date for both models of “early 2019”.
Fast forward to 31st January 2019, and we've been able to shoot with a working version of the Lumix S1R and S1 at the Global press launch in Barcelona, Spain. We've updated our initial first impressions of the cameras and new lenses with some more detailed observations.
So read on for our first impressions of the new Panasonic S1R and S1 35mm full-frame mirrorless cameras...
ON1 Photo RAW 2019.2 includes a powerful new masking feature that leverages AI for generating masks as well as performance enhancements and new camera support.
The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports is a brand new, no-holds-barred, fast telephoto zoom lens for Nikon and Canon full-frame cameras. Read our in-depth Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports lens review to find out if it's the ultimate telephoto zoom for DSLR owners, complete with full-size sample images...
The Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 lens is now compatible with the Canon EOS R and Mount Adapter EF-EOS R.
Sigma today announced the pricing and availability of the highly anticipated flagship Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports telephoto zoom lens.
Interested in buying a 70-200mm telephoto zoom that doesn't break either your back or your bank?! Then take a look at the Tamron 70-210mm f4 Di VC USD lens, which only weighs 860g and only costs £699 / $799. Read our Tamron 70-210mm f4 review to find out if it's cut too many corners or not...
The Fujifilm XF 200mm F2 R LM OIS WR is a professional-quality telephoto prime lens for Fujifilm X-series mirrorless cameras. Offering a focal range of 305mm in 35mm terms, fast f/2 maximum aperture, 5 stops of built-in image stabilisation, weather-proofing, fast and quiet auto-focusing and an aperture ring, is the new Fujifilm 200mm f/2 lens the perfect choice for wildlife and sports photographers? Read our in-depth Fujifilm XF 200mm F2 R LM OIS WR review complete with full-size sample images to find out...
The retail price of the new Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports lens will be £1349.99 including VAT in the UK. SIGMA SA and Canon EF mount will be available in December and Nikon F mount will follow in early 2019.
The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is now available for $1999 USD in Sigma, Canon and Nikon camera mounts.
We've already published our full review of this excellent lens here.
The Sigma 105mm F1.4 DG HSM is a very fast, short telephoto prime lens for full-frame DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras. The Sigma 105mm f/1.4 Art is a no-holds-barred lens that's designed to produce lovely bokeh effects and buttery-smooth backgrounds. Retailing for £1,499 / $1,599, read our Sigma 105mm F1.4 DG HSM review to find out if it can deliver the goods...
Sigma have issued a lens compatibility notice for their lenses when used with the new Canon EOS R mirrorless camera. There are no known issues with general operation, but Sigma do state that the Digital Lens Optimizer located within the in-camera Lens Aberration Correction function cannot be used and must be set to Off. This will be fixed by Sigma in a future firmware update.
The Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is a new professional hyper-telephoto zoom lens for full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras (Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts). Offering a much larger focal range than comparable lenses from Nikon, Canon and Tamron, is this 60-600mm "Bigma" lens worth considering? Read our Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports review to find out...
One of the key selling points of the Canon EOS R mirrorless camera is its backwards compatibility with Canon's vast range of EF lenses - 130 million produced so far and counting - not to mention 3rd-party lenses from the likes of Sigma and Tamron. This backwards compatibility is made possible by the new Canon EF-EOS R mount adapter.
So we've tested out the autofocusing system of the Canon EOS R mirrorless camera, firstly with the RF 24-105mm f/4 kit lens and then with a wide variety of EF lenses.
As the sun sets on Photokina 2018 (for us at least - the show is still open tomorrow), we look back at all of the new products that have been launched at the show. And my - there's certainly been a lot of them! I can't remember a show during the last 15 years of Photography Blog that has been quite so vibrant and busy, which is a shame given the rumours that next year's Photokina will be a much smaller affair.
So here, in no particular order, is a quick roundup of everything that we've covered in the last 4 days...
Sigma has introduced 5 new lenses at Photokina 2018. They are the:
Think Tank Photo have upgraded their Hydrophobia Rain Covers, which feature waterproof construction that protects camera gear from downpours and dusty conditions.
Think Tank Photo's new Emergency Rain Covers are a simple, compact solution for protecting photo gear from sudden downpours or dusty conditions. These seam-sealed rain covers can be quickly and easily deployed when outdoor conditions change.
To help photographers protect their lenses from the rigors of travel, Think Tank Photo has just released the Lens Case Duo series of six quick-access, dual-opening padded lens cases. With the Lens Case Duo, photographers can protect their delicate lenses while transporting them in rolling cases, backpacks or shoulder bags.
We've just spent a day shooting with the new Canon EOS R mirrorless camera in Shoreditch, London at the official Canon Europe press launch event. Check out our detailed first impressions of using the Canon EOS R mirrorless camera now...
Ahead of our full review, here are some sample JPEG and Raw images and a 4K movie taken with a full production version of the brand new Canon EOS R compact system camera and the RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens.
The new high-speed ultrawide-angle zoom lens, the SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (Model A041) continues Tamron’s well-established reputation for ultra-high-quality wide-angle zoom lenses but with many new features in this G2 (Generation 2) model.
The Tamron SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 will be available in Nikon mount on 21st September 2018 and in Canon mount on 12th October 2018 at a suggested retail price of $1299.
Think Tank Photo’s upgraded Retrospective shoulder bags feature increased photography gear security and lighter weight. The Retrospective V2.0 retain their classic look but include many innovative new features. Keeping the soft, form-fitting design, they are lighter than the original. For greater security, they added a zippered opening under the main flap that tucks away when not in use. Each bag has a dedicated interior tablet or laptop pocket, luggage handle pass-through, and a compressible water bottle pocket.
The Nissin MG10 is an advanced NAS 2.4Ghz wireless strobe for on-camera and studio shooting. Available now for $599, the Nissin MG10 flash is a high power (80GN, 165 w/s) strobe in the Nissin Air System.
Canon has upgraded two of its most loved and well-regarded L-series lenses with the launch of the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM.
The EF 7-200mm f/4L IS II USM is available from summer 2018 with an SRP of £1,299.99/€1,519.99 / £1,299.00 The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is available from summer 2018 with an SRP of £2,149.99/€2,499.99 / $2,099.00.
Capture One 11.1 is a new feature release to the industry’s premier RAW conversion and image editing software. Improved Styles and presets workflow, support for 11 new cameras, including Sony A7 Mk III and Fuji X-H1 and 10 new lenses, including Tamron lenses for both Nikon and Canon, and an all-new Resource Hub are among the latest updates.
We've been trying out the new Sony A7 III full-frame camera with some older Canon f/4 L series lenses - namely the EF 24-105mm F/4L IS USM, EF 17-40mm F/4L USM and the EF 70-200mm F/4L USM - mounted via a Sigma MC-11 converter.
The Fujifilm X-H1 is the newest flagship camera on the block, topping the mirrorless X-series range with built-in optical image stabilisation and the most advanced video capabilities of any Fujifilm camera to date. Check our our in-depth Fujifilm XH1 review, complete with full-size sample images, movies and more...
The Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD is a compact telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. It features a best-in-class maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1, internal zoom mechanism, Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) design, 4 stops of VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization, and a Fluorine Coating and Moisture-Resistant Construction.
The 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD is compatible with both the 1.4x (Model TC-X14) and 2.0x (Model TC-X20) Teleconverters. An Arca-Swiss style tripod mount is available as an optional accessory. The Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD will be aavailable from April 2018 for £699 in the UK and $799 in the US.
We've spent the last couple of days shooting with the new Fujifilm X-H1 compact system camera in Lisbon, Portugal, in a wide variety of different scenarios. Check out our first impressions of using the exciting Fujifilm XH1 camera now...
The Tamron 100-400mm F/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD is a very versatile telephoto zoom lens for full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras. Costing much less than rival lenses from Nikon and Canon, whilst being lighter and more compact, is this new Tamron 100-400mm lens worth considering? Read our in-depth Tamron 100-400mm F/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD review, complete with full-size sample images, to find out...
Sigma will showcase its full range of Sigma Global Vision lenses, including a brand-new addition to the line, at the upcoming PDN PhotoPlus Expo 2017 Expo held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City from 26-28 October 2017. The company will also have on hand its Sigma Cine high-speed Primes and Zooms as well as the Foveon sensor-based sd Quattro and Quattro H cameras. Last but not least, a distinguished line-up of Sigma Pro speakers will take to the Sigma stage and offer attendees a behind-the-lens look at the techniques and technology that captured some of the year’s most outstanding photographs in the areas of aviation, editorial, glamour, landscapes, travel and weddings (click through / scroll down for the schedule). PPE 2017 attendees who visit Sigma at booth 837 will have a chance to enter and win a Sigma grand giveaway – a 24-70mm F2.8 Art lens – an MSRP value of $1299.
The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM is an affordable telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR camera. Read our Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM review to find out if this is all the telephoto lens that you actually need...
The new EOS 6D Mark II is Canon's latest 35mm full-frame DSLR camera. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to the EOS 5D Mark IV, the EOS 6D Mark II features 26.2 megapixels, latest DIGIC 7 processor, 45 point AF system and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. Read our expert Canon EOS 6D Mark II review now...
Canon Japan have released 7 high-resolution sample images captured with their new EOS M100 compact system camera. Taken with a variety of lenses including the Canon EF-M15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, EF-M18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, EF-M28mm f/3.5 MACRO IS STM, EF-M11-22mm f/4-5.6 IS STM and EF-M55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM; these Canon EOS M100 samples were shot at sensitivity settings ranging from ISO 100/21° to ISO 400/27°.
Website: Canon Japan - Official Canon EOS M100 Sample Pictures
The Canon EOS M100 is a new entry-level mirrorless camera which replaces the EOS M10.
The Canon EOS M100 is available from October 2017 in the following kits:
EOS M100 Body Only – RSP €569.99/£449.99
EOS M100 + EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM – RSP €699.99/£569.99
EOS M100 + EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM and EF-M 22mm f/2 STM – RSP €899.99/£699.99
EOS M100 + EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM and EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM – RSP €969.99/£769.99
In the US, the Canon EOS M100 is scheduled to be available in black or white in October 2017 for an estimated retail price of $599.99 with the EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens and $949.99 with the EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens and the EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens.
The Tamron 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD is a new 22.2x wide-angle ultra-zoom lens for Nikon and Canon APS-C DSLRs. Offering built-in image stabilisation and weather-resistance, the Tamron 18-400mm offers an effective focal range of 28.8-620mm. Read our in-depth Tamron 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD review now...
The new EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 is Canon's smallest and lightest DSLR camera. Aimed mainly at beginners, the EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 is also an attractive proposition for experienced photographers looking for a more compact body. Find out if it can satisfy both by reading our Canon EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 review...
Canon have published 11 high-resolution sample images and a reduced-resolution sample movie captured with their new EOS 6D Mark II full-frame digital SLR camera. Taken using a variety of Canon EF lenses including the EF85mm f/1.2L II USM, the EF24-105mm f/4L IS II USM, the EF35mm f/1.4L II USM, the EF16-35mm f/4L IS USM, the EF11-24mm f/4L USM, the EF24-70mm f/4L IS USM, the EF70-200mm f/4L IS USM and the EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM; these Canon EOS 6D Mark II samples were shot at sensitivity settings ranging from ISO 100 to ISO 800.
The Tamron 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD is the World's first 22.2x all-in-one zoom lens for APS-C DSLR cameras. Weighing in at 705 grams, the 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD is remarkably compact and lightweight for a lens covering such an extremely wide zoom range. The focal length of 400mm at the telephoto end enables photographers to bring distant subjects closer as well as the perspective-flattening effects that only extreme telephoto settings can achieve. The optical construction of the lens comprises 16 lens elements in 11 groups. The use of specialised glass elements such as LD (Low Dispersion) and aspherical lens elements effectively minimises chromatic aberrations and geometric distortion. The AF drive system uses Tamron’s exclusive HLD (High/Low torque modulated Drive) motor. The power-saving HLD motor produces outstanding driving torque, and adjusts motor rotation from low to high speed to enable accurate and quiet focusing. The lens is equipped with Tamron’s original VC (Vibration Compensation) system, which effectively curbs camera shake under low-light conditions. The electromagnetic diaphragm system, which enables superior aperture control, will be incorporated into both the Canon and Nikon vrsions of the lens. The Tamron 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD will be available from July, at a suggested retail price of £649.99/$649.00.
Manfrotto have unveiled Pro Light Bumblebee camera bag family. Designed for professional photographers and videographers who work outdoors, the Pro Light Bumblebee family is an assortment of high-performance camera backpacks and messenger bags with aesthetics and technical qualities that perfectly embody Manfrotto’s Italian heritage. The Bumblebee-230 PL backpack protects a gripped DSLR with a 70-200/2.8 lens attached and 10 extra lenses or an attached 400/2.8 with 5 extra lenses. In video configuration, it protects a disassembled modular camcorder like the Canon C100 with numerous lenses & accessories. It also fits a 17” laptop in its own padded compartment. The Bumblebee-130 PL backpack keeps a high-end CSC or a DSLR safe with a 70-200/2.8 lens attached and 8 extra lenses or an unattached 400/2.8 with 3 extra lenses. It also fits a 15” laptop in its own padded compartment. The removable Manfrotto Camera Protection System inserts safeguard equipment at the heart of the pack and keep it organised with the efficiency of a portable studio. The innovative AirSupport breathable harness and back panel, adjustable sternum support, shaped hip and waist support systems ensure a comfortable carry. Manfrotto has also added two new messenger bags, the Bumblebee M-10 PL and M-30 PL. Prices for the Bumblebee start from £109.95. The range will be available to pre order on the Manfrotto website.
The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM is a versatile telephoto zoom lens for full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras. Offering a much cheaper price-tag than comparable lenses from Nikon and Canon, is this third-party lens worth considering? Read our Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM review to find out...
The new Canon EOS 800D / Rebel T7i DSLR camera is positioned between the cheaper EOS 1300D and more expensive EOS 77D, attempting to offer most of the same features as the 77D in a more beginner-friendly design. Find out if it succeeds by reading our expert Canon EOS 800D / Rebel T7i review...
The new Canon EOS 77D DSLR slots in between the cheaper EOS 800D and more expensive EOS 80D, attempting to blend together the best of both cameras. Find out if it succeeds by reading our expert Canon EOS 77D digital SLR review...
Canon U.S.A. today announced their new Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens (also known as the CN-E 70-200mm T4.4 L IS KAS S), a compact and lightweight 4K lens designed for professional videographers. The second in a new class of Canon lenses, the Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens is a cinema-style lens that includes a servo drive unit as a standard feature. Additionally, the lens incorporates image stabilisation, auto focus and Auto Iris functionality The lens also provides high image quality that supports 4K image productions and was designed to be utilised in a variety of shooting styles including, hand-held, shoulder mounted, and tripod mounted. Compatible with EF-mount Super 35mm large-format cameras, the lens maintains brightness across the entire focal range at T4.4 (equal to f/4.0). The lens is also compatible with both the Canon EF 1.4x III (expanded focal range of 98-280mm) and EF 2x III (expanded focal range of 140mm-400mm) external extenders, expanding the focal range of the lens for additional versatility when the shooting situation calls for it. The Canon COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Zoom Lens is scheduled to be available later in 2017.
At the 2017 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Canon will showcase its line of professional 4K and high-definition imaging equipment for motion pictures, television production, video content creation, and still photography at booth C4325. The stand will feature presentations and panel discussions throughout the show with industry experts, ASC members, and up-and-coming voices in imaging culture. New to the Canon booth this year, The Virtual Reality Experience showcases Canon’s innovation in current, emerging, and future imaging technology by providing a simulated journey through a panoramic landscape powered by Canon digital imaging solutions. Additionally, visitors to the Canon booth will have hands-on opportunities with the full range of Canon Cinema cameras, 4K reference displays, HD Video and DSLR cameras and lenses.
The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a brand new fast telephoto zoom lens for Nikon and Canon full-frame DSLRs. Offering improved built-in image stabilisation, the compact Tamron 70-200mm lens has a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the range. Read our Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 review to find out if it's the best fast telephoto zoom for full frame users.
Ahead of our full review, here are some sample images taken with the Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 lens, mounted on a Canon EOS 5DS R body. The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a brand new telephoto zoom lens for 35mm full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras.
The Canon and Nikon versions of the Sigma EF-630 flashgun are scheduled to start shipping later this month. First announced in 2016 (and already available for Sigma cameras), the EF-630 is a multifunctional clip-on type flash designed to work with today's advanced digital SLR cameras. Featuring a zoomable tilt-swivel head with a zoom coverage of 24-200mm, the Sigma EF-630 offers wireless TTL exposure control as well as high-speed sync, rear-curtain sync and modelling flash functions. Photographers can update the unit's firmware via the optional Flash USB Dock FD-11. The recommended retail price of the Sigma EF-630 is $379.
The long-awaited Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 G OSS is a premium telephoto zoom lens for the Sony Alpha full-frame compact system camera range. Read our in-depth Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 G OSS review to find out if this lens is an essential purchase for Sony Alpha full-frame owners...
Canon Japan have released 4 full-resolution sample images taken with the new Canon EOS 77D digital SLR camera. Captured using a variety of lenses including the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM, EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM; these Canon EOS 77D samples were taken at sensitivity settings ranging from ISO 100/21° to ISO 400/27°.
Website: Canon Japan
Canon Japan have posted seven full-resolution sample images and one reduced-resolution sample video captured with the new Canon EOS M6 compact system camera. Taken with a variety of lenses including the EF-M15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, the EF-M18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, the EF-M11-22mm f/4-5.6 IS STM and the EF70-200mm f/4L IS USM; these Canon EOS M6 samples were all shot at a sensitivity setting of ISO 100/21°.
Website: Canon Japan
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.
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.
The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a new full-frame telephoto zoom lens with an all-new optical design and "dramatically faster" AF speed. New features include eBAND Coating, a moisture-proof and dust-resistant construction, fluorine coating and compatibility with teleconverters. The optical design of the new lens consists of 23 elements in 17 groups. The deployment of XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements thoroughly eliminate chromatic aberrations, while ensuring uniform image quality even on the periphery of the image frame. Bokeh has been enhanced to deliver outstanding background effects across the entire zoom range. The improved Vibration Correction system provides a 5-stop advantage over non-stabilised lenses. Availablity is slated for late February, with pricing to be confirmed.
The winners of the 3rd International Landscape Photographer of the Year (ILPOTY) competition have been announced. From 2394 entries, the winner of the third International Landscape Photographer of the Year (based on a folio submission of at least 4 images) is Alex Noriega from the USA, while the winner of the third International Landscape Photograph of the Year (awarded for a single image) is a picture by Hougaard Malan, from South Africa (reprinted above), who also won the Waterfall Award. Runners-up include Kath Salier, Peter Poppe, Simone Cmoon and Eberhard Ehmke. The Black & White Award went to Guy Havell, the Dominant Sky category was won by Leonardo Papèra, the South America Award was given to Kalan Robb, while the Squarial (square aerial) Award was won by Ignacio Palacios.
The Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM is one of the kit lenses for the new EOS M5 compact camera, but is it any good? Read our in-depth Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM review to find out...
Adobe Camera Raw 9.8 is now available through the update mechanism in Photoshop CC and the Creative Cloud application. This update adds support for the Canon EOS M5, Fujifilm XA3, Google Pixel, Google Pixel XL, Hasselblad X1D, Leica TL, Nikon D5600, Olympus EM1 Mark II (preliminary), Olympus PEN EPL8, Panasonic LUMIX DMCFZ2500 (DMCFZ2000 and DMCFZH1), Pentax K70 (pictured), Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Sony Alpha a6500 (ILCE 6500), Sony Alpha a99 II (ILCA99M2) and Sony DSCRX100 Mark V cameras, and dozens of new camera-lens profiles. Creative Cloud users can select Help>Updates to use the update mechanism in the Creative Cloud app.
Adobe Lightroom CC 2015.8 is now available. This version introduces a new view mode witin the Develop Module called Reference View, which allows you to compare 2 different images in order to make them visually consistent. This is helpful when making a group of images from a single event look similar or setting the white balance appropriately in mixed lighting conditions. Additionally, Adobe Lightroom CC 2015.8 adds support for raw image files generated by the Canon EOS M5, Fujifilm X-A3, Google Pixel, Google Pixel XL, Hasselblad X1D, Leica TL, Nikon D5600, Olympus E-M1 Mark II (preliminary), Olympus PEN E-PL8, Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ2500 (DMC-FZ2000 and DMC-FZH1), Pentax K-70, Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Sony Alpha a6500 (ILCE-6500). Sony Alpha a99 II (ILCA-99M2) and Sony DSC-RX100 Mark V cameras, plus tethered shooting support for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV SLR. Creative Cloud users can select Help > Updates to use the update mechanism in the Creative Cloud app.
The Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM is an ultra-zoom lens for Nikon and Canon APS-C DSLR cameras. Crucially offering built-in image stabilisation, the Sigma 18-200mm offers an effective focal range of 28-300mm and a minimum focusing distance of 14.7 inches. Read our Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM review to find out if it's too much of a compromise or not...
The Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 is a premium super-telephoto zoom lens for full-frame and APS-C Canon, Nikon and Sony DSLR cameras. Read our in-depth Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 to find out if it can improve on the popular original version...
Phew, what a day! Press Day at Photokina 2016 turned out to be much bigger than we expected, with flagship products seemingly being announced on the hour, every hour. So here's a handy roundup of all the highlights if you haven't been able to keep up. We'll be adding more products as they're announced.
Day 2 Update: We've taken a closer look at the Fujifilm GFX 50S, Sony A99 II and Canon EOS M5 cameras and Sigma's new lenses, as well as having an in-depth discussion with Olympus about the new flagship E-M1 Mark II camera. There have also been further announcements from the likes of SanDisk, Lexar, Phase One, Metz, Bowens, Broncolor and Kodak, all of which are listed below.
Day 3 Update: We've been busy bringing you hands-on photos of all the important new cameras, lenses and accessories that have been launched at Photokina, plus taking time to chat with Canon, Nikon and Sigma.
Day 4 Update: More hands-on looks at more interesting new products, including a variety of lenses, plus an interview with Kodak about their new 4K360VR camera.
Day 5 Update: An interview with Hasselblad, plus hands-on photos of 3 Nikon Coolpix cameras, an array of Zeiss, Meyer-Optik and Voigtländer lenses and a number of interesting accessories.
Tamron have announced the upcoming launch of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 telephoto zoom lens. This second-generation lens builds upon the success of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD, which was announced in December 2013, but promises to deliver superior optical performance with today’s high resolution DSLRs and to add improvements to several features including the speed and accuracy of the Vibration Compensation and auto focus systems. The design incorporates an upgraded optical construction (21 elements in 13 groups, including 3 low-dispersion lens elements) and a metal lens barrel. The minimum object distance has been reduced to 2.2m from 2.7m in the previous model. A new FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism enables the locking of the zoom ring at any position, while the Vibration Compensation system has been upgraded to offer three distinct image stabilisation modes; Standard, Panning and VC Mode 3, which prioritises the stabilisation of the captured images and forgoes the stabilisation of the viewfinder image. Additionally, an electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in the Nikon version too. Two exclusive, separately sold teleconverters, which perfectly match the optics of the new SP 150-600mm G2 offer 1.4x and 2.0x magnification to extend the lens' reach to 1,200mm. The Canon and Nikon mount models will be launched in the second half of September, with a Sony version being released at a later date. In teh US, the lens will be available for $1,399.
Canon have released thirteen full-resolution sample photos and two reduced-resolution sample videos shot on their new EOS 5D Mark IV digital SLR camera. Captured with a variety of lenses including the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF11-24mm f/4L USM, EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, EF600mm f/4L IS II USM and new EF24-105mm f/4L IS II USM, these Canon EOS 5D Mark IV samples were taken at sensitivity settings ranging from ISO 100 to ISO 6,400.
Website: Official Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Sample Images & Movies
The Sony RX10 III is a new premium super-zoom camera featuring a 28-600mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4, a 20.1 megapixel 1.0-type CMOS sensor, 4K video recording, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, support for the Raw format and full manual controls. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III review now...
Sigma UK have announced availbility and pricing for the new Sigma EF-630 electronic flash. Designed to work with current digital SLR cameras from Canon, Nikon and Sigma; the EF-630 is a multifunctional clip-on type flash featuring a zoomable tilt-swivel head, wireless TTL exposure control as well as high-speed sync, rear-curtain sync and modelling flash functions. Photographers can update the unit's firmware via the newly developed optional Flash USB Dock FD-11. The Sigma Electronic Flash EF-630 will be available in early July with a suggested retail price of £399.99 including VAT and the Flash USB Dock FD-11 in Sigma fit will be available in early July with a suggested retail price of £59.99.
The Sigma MC-11 Canon Mount EF Adapter promises to provide seamless compatibility between Sony FE and APS-C cameras and Sigma Canon EOS mount and Sigma mount lenses. We've tested the Sigma MC-II with the latest Sony A7R II camera and a range of Sigma and Canon EF lenses to find out if that promise holds true...
Canon today announced two new accessories for the EOS system – the Speedlite 600EX II-RT flash (£549.99/€749.99, pictured) and the DM-E1 Directional Stereo Microphone (£279.99 / € 389.99). Firing up to 50% more flashes continuously compared with its predecessor, and a 100% increase when used with the new CP-E4N battery pack; the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT has an improved heat measure technology which prevents overheating and allows longer bursts of flashes. A guide number of 60m at ISO 100 allows you to creatively light your subject over a wide range of distances and large areas, ideal for capturing the whole congregation at a wedding. Thanks to a wide lens coverage, from 20mm to 200mm, or to 14mm via the built-in adapter, photographers can easily control how light is spread across a subject. The radio control function provides further creative freedom. The DM-E1 is a compact stereo directional microphone featuring a classic shotgun design with three directional sound pick-up modes. Switching to the 90- and 120-degree modes provides stereo sound for sources that are spread over wider areas, such as an orchestra in a concert hall. Both new accessories will become available next month.
For outdoor photographers seeking one bag to carry a single DSLR or CSC on everything from a quick outing to a multi-night trek, MindShift Gear have just introduced four new Multi-Mount Holsters. Sized to fit a range of cameras and lenses, each holster offers five key mounting configurations: shoulder, pack/front harness, chest, storage, and belt. In a first for the photo industry, the Multi-Mount Holsters additionally feature a unique backpack mount. “The Multi-Mount Holsters include all the accessories needed to personalize your camera carrying method,” said Doug Murdoch, MindShift Gear’s CEO and Lead Designer. “With just a few adjustments, you can quickly switch from carrying it on your waist, back, chest or shoulder.” The Multi-Mount Holsters are priced from $89.99. Click through / scroll down for the details.
The new Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD is a short telephoto prime lens for DSLR cameras which boasts several class-leading features. Can it beat its main rivals from Canon, Nikon and Sigma? Find out in our Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD review...
Fotodiox has announced the Wonderpana FreeArc XL - a comprehensive filter system for the Canon 11-24mm lens. Its aircraft-grade aluminium alloy lens collar allows photographers to attach a custom series of 186mm filter options including neutral density filters and polarisers. Additionally, photographers can add the WonderPana WP80 Filter Brackets to the WonderPana FreeArc XL to mount one or two square graduated filters at the same time as a round filter. Measuring 200mm x 260mm, the WonderPana FreeArc XL's square filters are the largest commercially available in the industry today. The WonderPana FreeArc XL retails for $229.95.
The Sigma EF-630 is a multifunctional clip-on type flash designed to work with current digital SLR cameras from Canon, Nikon and Sigma. Featuring a zoomable tilt-swivel head with a zoom coverage of 24-200mm, the Sigma EF-630 offers wireless TTL exposure control as well as high-speed sync, rear-curtain sync and modelling flash functions. Photographers can update the unit's firmware via the newly developed optional Flash USB Dock FD-11.
Canon have published four full-resolution sample photos and a reduced-resolution sample video recorded with their new EOS 80D digital SLR camera. Captured using a variety of EF and EF-S lenses including the Canon EF600mm f/4L IS II USM, EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM and EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM; these Canon EOS 80D samples can be downloaded as full-resolution JPEG images from the website below. Note that unlike the stills, the sample movie has been resized for the Web.
Canon have posted nine full-resolution sample images and a reduced-size sample video recorded with the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II digital SLR camera. Taken with a variety of lenses including the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM, EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM and EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM; the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II sample photos were captured at sensitivity settings ranging from ISO 100 - ISO 25,600.
Sigma have announced the new Sigma Water Repellent (WR) Ceramic Protector, a lens filter that features new Clear Glass Ceramic material and provides enhanced protective qualities. With many applications in aerospace and other industries, glass ceramic is an extremely tough type of crystallised glass that serves as the foundation for Clear Glass Ceramic. While featuring the high transmittance required of optical devices, this advanced new material combines greater hardness than chemically strengthened glass and greater flexibility than sapphire crystal glass. These qualities make Clear Glass Ceramic the ideal material for protective lens filters. The Sigma Water Repellent Ceramic Protector filter is offered in the most popular filter thread sizes, and is compatible with all lenses that accept front filter threads that are 67mm-105mm diameters.
Sigma Corporation of America has announced its Black Friday deals on five of the company’s most popular lenses. During the promotion, which starts today and ends on Cyber Monday, the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens is available for $849 instead of $949. The Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM can be yours for $299 (originally $549), the 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM now sells for $419 (instead of $669), the 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM can be had for $1,149 (originally $1,399), and the Sigma 105mm F2.8 Macro EX DG OS HSM is being offered for $669 (regular price: $969).
Canon are offering up to £75 on selected products in the United Kingdom. The cashback promotion runs from 14th October 2015 to 13th January 2016 for eligible products purchased from selected UK or Republic of Ireland retailers. Eligible products include seven SLRs, twelve lenses, two flash units, half a dozen compact cameras, six camcorders and four printers (click through / scroll down for the full list). Registering with Canon to claim cashback on any of these products will give you the chance to win a luxury trip to St. Moritz in Switzerland.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II is a new premium super-zoom camera featuring a 28-200mm lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8, a 20.2 megapixel 1.0-type CMOS sensor, 4K video recording, wi-fi and NFC connectivity and support for the Raw format and full manual controls. Is this the best ever superzoom camera? Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II review to find out...
Think Tank Photo has released the Retrospective 5 Leather, Retrospective 7 Leather, and Retrospective 30 Leather shoulder bags. he new shoulder bags are designed to hold tablets and laptops in dedicated zipper pockets. The Retrospective 5 Leather ($199.75) holds an 8” tablet alongside a standard-sized SLR camera and up to 3 lenses; the Retrospective 7 Leather ($229.75) accommodates a 10” tablet or 11” laptop; and, the Retrospective 30 Leather ($259.75) holds a 10” tablet or 11” laptop plus a pro SLR with lenses, and 2 additional SLR camera bodies in its front pockets.
Canon have announced the upcoming US launch of their EOS M3 compact system camera. The company's third CSC has an 24.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, DIGIC 6 processor, a touch-screen interface, Hybrid CMOS AF III and 49-point AF System, Full 1080p HD Movie mode, ISO 100-12800, a 3-inch 1,040,000-dot LCD monitor that tilts up 180 degrees and down 45 degrees, integrated Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, 4.2fps burst shooting, 14-bit RAW support, built-in pop-up flash and a flash hot-shoe. The Canon EOS M3 will go on sale in the US in early October for an estimated retail price of $679.99. An EOS M3 EF-M 18-55mm IS STM lens kit will be available in the customer’s choice of black or white for an estimated retail price of $799.99. Additionally, a two-lens kit featuring the EOS M3 digital camera with the EF-M 18-55mm IS STM lens and the EF-M 55-200mm IS STM lens will be on sale for an estimated retail price of $1,049.00.
The winners of the 2nd International Landscape Photographer of the Year (ILPOTY) competition have been announced. The overall winner (based on a folio submission of at least 4 images) is Luke Austin from Australia. Luke uses a Nikon D800E with the Nikkor 14-24mm f2.8, 45mm f2.8 Tilt Shift and 70-200mm f4 lenses, and an assortment of Feisol Pro and Tournament series tripods. The runner-up International Landscape Photographer of the Year is Ricardo Da Cunha from Australia..
The Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS is a high-end telephoto zoom lens for the Sony Alpha full-frame compact system camera range. Read our Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS review to find out if this lens is an essential purchase for Sony Alpha full-frame owners...
We've just tested the brand new Sony A7R II compact system camera with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L lens. Here are 62 JPEG and 62 Raw images taken with a final production version of the Sony A7R II compact system camera with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L lens and the <a href="http://www.metabones.com/products/details/MB-EF-E-BT4">Metabones Canon EF Lens to Sony NEX Smart Adapter (Mark IV)</a>.
Tamron have just released the new 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC lens. Billed as the World's lightest superzoom lens in its class, the Tamron 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC weighs in at a mere 400 grams, allowing for greater portability than any of its predecessors. Featuring 16 elements in 14 groups, the 18-200mm VC uses an LD (Low Dispersion) lens element to minimise chromatic aberrations, and boasts the manufacturer's Vibration Compensation technology, which allows photographers to take sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds that are critically slow for the focal length used. The suggested retaill price is £169.99 / $249.00.
The Canon EOS 5DS R DSLR boasts a massive 50 megapixel sensor with a low-pass cancellation filter to maximise the sharpness of the camera's sensor. Does the brand new Canon 5DS R offer the best image quality from a DSLR? Read our detailed Canon EOS 5DS R review to find out...
Wilkinson Cameras (Liverpool) are holding a free Canon Pro Video event on on 8 August 2015. Ideal for wedding photographers and videographers, schools and universities, the event entitled ‘Leave No Story Untold’ – Capturing the Action from Script to Screen with Phil Coates has a morning session starting at 10am and an afternoon session starting at 2pm. Both sessions last approximately 2 hours and there will be a range of Canon video equipment on display, along with the latest Atomos recorders, for attendees to try out. Phil Coates, Canon Explorer, will be delivering a 60 minute presentation about his work with the Canon video range. The event is free to attend ut advance booking is required. Interested readers can sign up at the website below.
Photography Blog was recently invited to view a comprehensive new line-up of photo products hitting the UK market from all over the world – courtesy of UK distributor Intro2020, which currently looks after 26 different brands and product lines.
Tamron USA have released a firmware update service for owners of select Tamron lenses who wish to use their lenses on the Canon EOS 5DS or 5DSR cameras. "We have learned that the AF functions of the following interchangeable lenses for Canon do not function in Live View mode when used on the EOS 5Ds and EOS 5DsR which went on sale in June 2015," the company says. "Firmware update service is already available as this is the same case when EOS Rebel T6s and the EOS Rebel T6i were released." Those who require the firmware update service are advised to consult Tamron's service department.
We've spent the last couple of weeks shooting 1000's of photos with the new 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera and a variety of different lenses.
Here's a handy roundup of all the sample image galleries that we've published, just in case you've missed anything...
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Zeiss Otus 85mm f/1.4 Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM (Fashion) Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 100mm Macro Sample Images
Canon EOS 5Ds with the Sigma 24mm, 35mm and 50mm Art Sample Images
We've just tested the new 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens in the studio and on location. Here are 58 JPEG and 58 Raw images taken with a final production version of the Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens.
Think Tank Photo’s new Trifecta backpacks are specifically designed for the working pro’s three workhorse lenses: their ultra-wide, mid-range, and telephoto zooms. The Trifecta 8 Mirrorless Backpack accommodates a medium to large compact system camera with lens attached, 2–5 additional lenses, up to an 8” tablet, plus personal gear. The Trifecta 10 DSLR Backpack fits a standard size SLR body with lens attached, 2–4 additional lenses, up to a 10” tablet, plus personal gear. Both backpacks sling for side access from both the left and right. The rear panel opening offers complete access to gear. The additional top compartment fits lunch or other essentials, while the included tripod attachment strap secures a tripod to the front panel. BOth models include a seam-sealed rain cover.
The EOS 5Ds DSLR camera has finally arrived, boasting a massive 50 megapixel sensor and proven design. Does the brand new Canon 5Ds offer high enough image quality to justify its £2999 / $3699 asking price? Read our detailed Canon EOS 5Ds review with full-size JPEG, Raw and video samples to find out...
We've just tested the new 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, shooting candid street portraits in Covent Garden, London. Here are 80 JPEG and 42 Raw images taken with a final production version of the Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens.
Last night we took the new 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM lens to the financial City of London district to test out the 5Ds's long exposure capabilities. Here are 55 JPEG and 20 Raw images taken with a final production version of the Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera with the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM lens.
We've just tried out the new 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM lens at a local bike race. Conditions were poor - a tree-lined circuit, overcast skies, 8pm in the evening - so high ISO speeds were the order of the day. Here are 41 JPEG images taken with a final production version of the Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM lens.
Ahead of our full review, here are 91 JPEG and 20 Raw images taken with a final production version of the new Canon EOS 5Ds DSLR camera, running v1.01 firmware. The Canon EOS 5Ds is a 35mm full-frame digital SLR camera with a 50.6 megapixel sensor.
Sigma have issued a product advisory stating that some of their Canon-mount lenses cannot be used with live view on the Canon EOS 750D and 760D digtial SLR cameras. Specifically, when the Live View Mode button on the camera body is pressed, the operation stops without displaying images on the rear LCD monitor, the company says. This issue affects 7 current and 6 discontinued Sigma zoom lenses. The company will provide users with a firmware update free of charge. Click through / read on for a detailed list of affected lenses.
In April, Think Tank Photo will release the Urban Approach 15, its first backpack designed specifically to hold a complete mirrorless kit as well as a 15” laptop, up to a 10” tablet, smartphone and more. “For quick and complete access to gear, we designed the zippers to open wide,” said Doug Murdoch, Think Tank’s president and lead designer. “This allows for unencumbered access to gear. Its low profile and yet high quality design and materials allow Mirrorless users to feel confident that their compact cameras and personal objects are cradled, safe and at the ready.” The Urban Approach 15 backpack accommodates up to two big compact system cameras with lens attached, 5–8 additional lenses, up to a 10” tablet and a 15” laptop. One example would be a Sony Alpha 7R with 24–70 f/4, 70–200mm f/4, 55mm f/1.8, 35mm f/2.8, plus a Sony A6000 with 16–50mm f/3.5-5.6, 55–210mm f/4.5-6.3, 2 HVL–F43M flashes, a tablet and a laptop. The Urban Approach 15 backpack will be available for $169.75.
The Nikon Coolpix S3700 is an affordable point-and-shoot compact camera with built-in wifi and NFC connectivity. Featuring an 8x, 25-200mm lens and a 20 megapixel CCD sensor, the S3700 also offers 720p HD movies and a range of special effects. Read our Nikon Coolpix S3700 review to find out if this budget shooter is worth looking at..
Canon UK and Irelad today launched its spring promotion allowing customers to claim up to £100/€120 cashback on selected products. These include three dSLR cameras, seven lenses, two flashes, three compact cameras, two digital camcorders and four printers. Those that purchase two products in Canon’s cashback offer can also claim a free hdbook photo book worth £99/€120. The offer runs from 5th March 2015 to 6th May 2015 for eligible products purchased from UK or Republic of Ireland retailers.
Canon has posted 4 full-resolution sample photos and 3 reduced-size sample videos recorded with the 50-megapixel Canon EOS 5Ds digital SLR camera. Captured using a variety of lenses including the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, the EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x, the EF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM and the EF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM II; these Canon EOS 5Ds samples can be downloaded as full-resolution JPEG images from the website below. Note that unlike the stills, the sample movie has been resized for the Web.
Website: Canon EOS 5Ds Sample Images & Movies
The M.ZUIKO Digital 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro is a new fast telephoto zoom lens from Olympus for the Micro Four Thirds system. Offering a 80-300mm focal length, constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, fast and near-silent focusing, and a manual focus clutch, read our in-depth Olympus M.ZUIKO Digital 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro review to find out if it's the best Micro Four Thirds telephoto lens...
Calumet Photographic has just launched its new Student Photographer of the Year Award for 2015 in partnership with a host of major photographic brands. Designed to recognise photographic talent of students and to provide them with a platform for their work to be recognised, the award is open and available to any student in the UK. Prospective entrants are invited to submit a single photo of their best work - or three if they are a part of the Calumet Student membership programme - and up to 20 words explaining their chosen image. A panel of four judges, including Calumet’s Managing Director, Jon Warner; Professional Photographer, Rory Lewis; Canon’s Product Intelligence Professional, David Parry; Professional Photographer, Tom Barnes, will view all entries and shortlist 10 runners-up and one overall winner who will win an array of prizes worth over £11,000. The deadline for entries is 13 March 2015 and the winners will be announced shortly after.
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. Is this the perfect do-it-all super-telephoto zoom lens for wildlife and sports photographers? Read our Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM review to find out...
The Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR is a new professional telephoto zoom lens for Fujifilm X-series compact system cameras. Offering a classic focal range of 76-213mm in 35mm terms, 5 stops of built-in image stabilisation, weather-proofing, fast and quiet auto-focusing and an aperture ring, is the new 50-140mm f/2.8 lens a worthy addition to the XF family? Read our in-depth Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR review to find out...
Think Tank Photo has introduced its smallest, lightest backpacks, the Perception series. Designed specifically for mirrorless systems, the Perception series comes in two colours, black and taupe, and three sizes. The smallest size, The Perception Tablet,, accommodates a mirrorless system and an iPad Mini. The largest size, the Perception Pro, holds a 15" laptop and a 10" tablet, plus one mirrorless body or small DSLR with a small to medium zoom attached. Plus, the largest size fits four to five more lenses. Prices range from $89.75 to $149.75, depending on size.
Canin UK has announced the imminent availability of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II dSLR camera. Announced at this year’s Photokina, the EOS 7D Mark II features a 20-megapixel imager with on-sensor PDAF, a 10fps continuous shooting mode, an all-new autofocus, expanded movie options and geotagging via an integrated GPS module. The camera, which has received the highest number of pre-orders for a DSLR in Canon UK’s history, will be available in the United Kingdom from Monday 3rd November 2014.
Canon UK has just launched its winter cashback offer, which enables you to receive up to £80 cashback on a selected range of Canon products including DSLRs, lenses, compact cameras, camcorders and printers. The offer runs from 29st October 2014 to 21st January 2015 for eligible products purchased from UK or Republic of Ireland retailers. Click through / scroll down for a list of all eligible cameras, lenses, printers and accessories.
The Tamron 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD is a new 10.7x wide-angle ultra-zoom lens for Nikon, Canon and Sony 35mm full-frame DSLRs. Offering built-in image stabilisation and splash-proof construction, the Tamron 28-300mm effectively replaces at least three lenses in your camera bag. Read our Tamron 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD review to find out if it's worth seriously considering as a do-it-all lens...
Photography Blog was invited along to Panasonic’s UK HQ in Bracknell , Berkshire, late August to hear more about its GM5 and LX100 releases, as well as the two new versions of its 35-100mm and 14mm lenses also launched today for its system cameras. Present at the meeting and making presentations were Panasonic UK’s Marketing Manager Dai Mukai, Head of Imaging Barney Sykes and Imaging Product Specialist Mark Baber, as well as the brand’s technical expert Mr Uematsu from Japan. A transcription of the presentations and discussions follows…
The new Metabones Speed Booster ULTRA adapter features an advanced 5-element / 4-group optical design incorporating ultra-high index tanatalum-based optical glass for improved corner sharpness, distortion and reduced vignetting. Like the original Metabones Speed Booster announced in January 2012, the Speed Booster ULTRA allows various full-frame lenses to be mounted on certain compact system camera bodies and has a magnification of 0.71x, so it effectively reduces the crop factor of cameras with APS-C sized sensors - such as Sony E-mount and Fuji X-mount cameras - from 1.5x to 1.07x. According to Metabones, the Speed Booster ULTRA performs extremely well with professional-grade f/2.8 zoom lenses such as the 24-70mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 zooms. Pricing starts at $449.
The Nikon D810 is a brand new 36 megapixel full-frame sensor DSLR camera with no optical low pass filter. The D810 also offers 1080/60p HD video, a 3.2-inch LCD screen, an optical viewfinder with 100% coverage and 5fps burst shooting. Read our in-depth Nikon D810 review to find out if it can emulate the success of the previous D800/E cameras...
The new Sony A7S compact system camera offers an incredible ISO range of ISO 50-409,600, 15-stops of dynamic range when shooting RAW, and 12.2 megapixels on a 35mm full-frame sensor. Add in 4K and XAVC video recording, a truly silent shooting mode, and AF performance in light as low as EV-4, and it's clear that the Sony A7S could be one of the most exciting cameras of 2014. Find out how it really performs in our in-depth Sony A7S review...
Intro 2020 has announced the UK availability and RRPs of the three new Tamron lenses unveiled last week. The Tamron 14-150mm f/3.5-5.8 Di III Micro Four Thirds lens (pictured) and the 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di lll VC in Canon M mount will be available in July for £389.99. The Tamron 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD full-format lens will also go on sale next mont, priced at £619.99.
The Tamron AF 16-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD is a new 18.8x wide-angle ultra-zoom lens for Nikon and Canon APS-C DSLRs. Crucially offering built-in image stabilisation, the Tamron 18-270mm offers an effective focal range of 24-450mm, replacing at least three lenses in your camera bag. Read our Tamron AF 16-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD review to find out if it's too much of a compromise or not...
The Tamron 28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD is a new superzoom lens for full-frame cameras, featuring a Piezo Drive AF motor, moisture-resistant construction, and a more compact build than its immediate predecessor. Headline features include optical vibration compensation, advanced anti-reflection coating, four low-dispersion elements, three molded glass aspherical elements, one hybrid aspherical element, one extra-refractive-index glass element and one element of UXR (Ultra-Extra Refractive Index) glass. The lens will be available in the U.S. in both Canon and Nikon mount on June 26, 2014 at $849.
Tamron today announced the price and availability of its 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di III superzoom lens for the Canon EOS M compact system camera. Originally released for Sony mount in 2011, this 29-320mm equivalent lens employs two (Low Dispersion) elements, three Molded-Glass Aspherical elements, one XR (high refractive index) element, and one Hybrid Aspherical element to reduce aberrations "to a bare minimum" as Tamron put it. The lens also has optical vibration compensation and a stepping motor adopted for the AF drive, a construction that accommodates contrast-detect auto focus and movie shooting. This feature also supports the Direct Manual Focus (DMF) function, which allows the user to make fine manual adjustments after initially focusing by AF. The Tamron 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di III VC for Canon will be available in the US starting 26 June 2014 priced at $499.
The Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM is Canon's first EF-M mount telephoto zoom lens. Featuring the manufacturer's lens-based optical image stabiliser, the Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM offers a 35mm equivalent focal range of 88-320mm. The lens will be available from July with a SRP £329.99/€389.99.
Ahead of our full review, here are 20 sample images and a 4K video taken with the new Panasonic FZ1000 super-zoom camera at a recent UK press event. The Panasonic FZ1000 is an exciting new superzoom with a 24-400mm zoom range and a large 1-inch CMOS sensor.
Canon UK has launched its summer cashback promotion giving you the chance to.get up to £100/€120 cashback on a range of selected Canon products across DSLRs, compact cameras, lenses, video cameras and printers. The offer runs from 15 May 2014 to 13 August 2014 for eligible products purchased from UK or Republic of Ireland retailers. Canon is also taking its cashback offer on the road this summer, visiting locations across the UK. To learn more, visit Canon UK’s Facebook page.
Sigma has announced that the “Sigma Mount Conversion Service”, “Sigma dp Quattro camera series” and “Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM / SIGMA 18-200mm f3.5-6.3 DC Macro HSM” lens have all won TIPA Awards. The Sigma Mount Conversion Service has been named 'Best Photo Service' by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). The Sigma dp Quattro (pictured) has won the 'Best Design' category, and the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM has been crowned Best Entry Level DSLR Lens.
Tamron has announced availability and pricing information on the Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro superzoom lens. Designed for dSLRs with APS-C sized sensors, the Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro has a 35mm equivalent focal range of 24-450mm and an optical formula comprising sixteen elements in twelve groups, plus an iris diaphragm with seven rounded aperture blades. Shipping with a petal-shaped lens hood, the Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro has a 67mm filter thread, 39cm minimum focus distance and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:2.9. The lens incorporates a PZD (Piezo Drive) focus motor and Tamron’s exclusive VC (Vibration Compensation) technology to combat motion blur resulting from shaky hands. The lens will be on sale in the USA starting May 15, 2014 at a street price of $629.
Tamron today officially announced the Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro lens. Designed for dSLRs with APS-C sized sensors, the Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro has a 35mm focal range of 24-450mm and an optical formula comprising sixteen elements in twelve groups, plus an iris diaphragm with seven rounded aperture blades. Shipping with a petal-shaped lens hood, the Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro has a 67mm filter thread, 39cm minimum focus distance and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:2.9. The lens incorporates a PZD (Piezo Drive) focus motor and Tamron’s exclusive VC (Vibration Compensation) technology to combat motion blur resulting from shaky hands. Pricing has yet to be communicated.
In our second Saturday Spotlight feature, we take a look at using Canon EF lenses on the Sony A7 / A7R compact system cameras - yes, it really is possible...
The Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM S is a professional telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. Retailing for £3499.99 / $3499.99, is the Sigma 120-300mm a better option than its Canon and Nikon rivals? Read our Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM S review to find out...
The Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP) has announced the winners of the Under 5's Photography Competition. The winning photo, "It's My Party" (above) by Julie Moult from Leicestershire, was chosen from over 290 images entered. "[The photograph] was taken in my studio on a cream paper background with a single 24" softbox camera right," Julie says. The runner-up was Julie Fraser from Caithness.
The Fujifilm XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS is an affordable telephoto zoom lens for Fujifilm X-series compact system cameras. Offering a focal range of 76-350mm in 35mm terms, built-in image stabilisation, a compact and lightweight design, and fast and quiet auto-focusing, is the Fujifilm XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS a worthy addition to your X-system kit? Read our Fujifilm XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS review to find out...
The NX30 is the new flagship model in Samsung's compact system camera range. The Samsung NX30 features a DSLR-like design, 3-inch swivelling AMOLED screen, tiltable electronic viewfinder, 1080p video recording at 60/50fps, built-in wi-fi and NFC connectivity, 9fps burst shooting, and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixels. Read our in-depth Samsung NX30 review, complete with full-size sample images, to find out if this is Samsung's best ever compact system camera...
The Nikon Df is a modern digital SLR that harks back to the film past, offering a retro design with a plethora of manual controls, whilst completely removing modern innovations like video recording and a pop-up flash. Find out if less really is more in our in-depth Nikon Df review...
Canon has posted half a dozen high-resolution sample photos and a movie shot with the new Canon EOS 1200D digital SLR camera. Captured using a variety of lenses including the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II, EF-S 55-200mm f/4-5.6 IS II, EF 135mm f/2L USM, EF 17-40mm f/4L USM and EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM; these Canon EOS 1200D samples can be downloaded as full-resolution JPEG images. Unlike the stills, the sample movie has been resized for the Web.
Sigma UK has announced the recommended retail price (RRP) of its new 18-200mm f3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM lens. The Canon version of the lens will be available in February at an RRP of £349.99 including VAT. The Nikon variant will follow in March with the Sony and Pentax editions (both without an optical stabiliser) being available in May.
Sigma has announced a new version of its 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 superzoom lens as part of its "Contemporary" product line. The new lens is smaller and lighter than its predecessor and bears the "Macro" designation to reflect its maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3. The close-focus distance is 39cm, which translates into a minimum working distance of less than 15cm. This lens incorporates SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements that have a high refractive index, and corrects chromatic aberration at the telephoto-end very well, the company claims. As before, the Canon, Nikon and Sigma versions have an Optical Stabiliser on board, while the Pentax and Sony variants come without this feature. Availability and pricing have yet to be communicated.
The Sony A7 is the second mirrorless camera in the World to offer a full-frame sensor, but this time it's a slightly more modest 24 megapixels, rather than the A7R's 36 megapixels. The cheaper Sony A7 also offers a more innovative and potentially quicker hybrid AF system, faster flash sync and burst shooting speeds, and a quieter electronic shutter. Is the Sony A7 just as good as its big brother? Read our Sony A7 review to find out...
Big sensor in a small body - that's the USP of the new Sony A7R camera. Offering a 35mm full-frame sensor inside a relatively compact body that takes interchangeable lenses, the A7R is a truly unique and genuinely exciting proposition. Is the Sony A7R the ultimate fusion of DSLR technology and compact system camera size? Read our Sony A7R review to find out...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 is a new premium super-zoom camera. Featuring a 28-200mm lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8, a 20.2 megapixel 1.0-type CMOS sensor, Full HD 60p/50p/25p/24p video recording, wi-fi and NFC connectivity and support for the Raw format and full manual controls, the Sony RX10 certainly seems to have every box ticked. Is this the best ever superzoom camera? Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 review to find out...
The Nikon D610 is a new full-frame DSLR camera that updates last year's D600 with a new shutter mechanism, faster 6fps burst shooting and a new Quiet Release Burst mode, and an improved auto white balance system. The D610 retains the same 24.3 megapixel full-frame sensor, 1080p HD video, ISO range of 50-25600, a 39-point AF system, 3.2-inch LCD screen and a viewfinder with 100% coverage as its predecessor. Read our in-depth Nikon D610 review now...
The Nikon Coolpix P7800 is a brand new premium compact camera for the keen enthusiast. The P7800 principally adds an electronic viewfinder to last year's P7700 model - is this enough to compete with the likes of the Canon PowerShot G16? Read our expert Nikon P7800 review now, complete with full-size JPEG and RAW sample images.
The winners of the Epson International Pano Awards 2013 competition have been announced. The overall winner of the Open Competition was Timo Lieber from the UK with a compelling black-and-white photograph of Dumont Dunes in the Mojave Desert, USA (above). The winner of the Amateur competition was Gary Schlatter of Australia, with a monochromatic image of a famous cluster of Cypress trees near San Quirico d'Orcia, Tuscany. The VR/360° competition winner was Dmitry Moiseenko with a spectacular aerial image of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The new Canon EOS 70D is not just another DSLR camera, thanks to its innovative Dual-Pixel CMOS AF system. This new technology aims to deliver much better Live View and Movie shooting than any other DSLR on the market. Read our in-depth Canon EOS 70D review to find out if it delivers on its promise...
Tamron has today announced that the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) has presented Tamron with two European Lens awards for 2013-2014. The Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (read review) has won the “European Lens 2013-2014” and the Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (read review) has won the “European Zoom Lens 2013-2014.”
We spend a day shooting aeroplanes with Andy Rouse to test the new Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x lens.
Get to know Wim Vorster, a South African wildlife photographer who is passionate about conserving wildlife and sharing this message with the rest of the world through his photography. Discover how he was attracted to photography and learn about some of the challenges that he has had to face.
Canon has just launched its summer cashback offer in the UK. Eligible customers may claim up to £55 cashback on a range of selected products across digital SLR cameras and lenses, compact cameras, inkjet printers and camcorders. Plus, if you purchase two promotional products within the same transaction, you're eligible to claim one additional £30 bonus payment. Click through for the full list of participating products.
Tamron USA is celebrating National Photo Month this May with its first Tamron Photo Scavenger Hunt. Participants will creatively photograph 14 clues and set-up an exhibit at MyPhotoExhibits.com by 31 May 2013. Tamron will pick the best overall exhibit based on image quality and creative interpretation of the clues. The winner will receive the award-winning Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD zoom lens. This contest is only open to adult residents of the USA. Click through / read on for the rules, including a list of the 14 clues.
Starting today photographers living in the UK and Ireland can claim cashback on a range of Canon products including DSLRs, lenses and accessories, compacts, camcorders and printers. The amount of cashback ranges from £20/€25 on the PowerShot S110 camera (pictured) to £235/€300 on the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lenses. To take part in the offer and check the terms and conditions, visit the website below.
The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a superzoom lens for DX-format DSLR owners. Offering a 16.7x zoom ratio and a 27-450mm equivalent focal range, can this £679.00 / $996.95 lens really cover all the bases? Read our in-depth Nikon 18-300mm lens review to find put...
The Nikkor 70-200mm f/4G ED VR is a new telephoto zoom lens that can be used with both full-frame FX and cropped DX Nikon DSLR cameras. Featuring a constant maximum aperture of f/4, the Nikon 70-200mmm is a relatively affordable, more compact partner for new DSLRs like the D800 and D600. Read our in-depth Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/4G ED VR review to find out if it's worth considering...
Sigma UK has announced the suggested retail price of the new 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM lens. Featuring a focus limiter, newly developed USB dock, dust- and splashproof construction and a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture; the Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM is part of the manufacturer’s “Sports” line of lenses. Incorporating 1 SLD and 2 FLD elements, the lens’ design also compensates for sagittal coma and minimises the blurring of a point light source in peripheral areas. This lens incorporates the OS system which, the company claims, offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. The new Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM lens will ba available in Sigma and Canon fits from the end of February, with a Nikon version coming at the end of March. The SRP of the lens is £3,599.99.
The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD is a fast telephoto zoom lens for Nikon, Sony and Canon full-frame DSLR shooters. Offering built-in image stabilisation, the compact Tamron 70-200mm lens has a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the range. Read our Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD review to find out if it's the best fast telephoto zoom for full frame users.
The Tamron AF 18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD is a 15x ultra-zoom lens for Nikon and Canon APS-C DSLR shooters. Crucially offering built-in image stabilisation, the Tamron 18-270mm offers an effective focal range of 28-420mm, replacing at least three lenses in your camera bag. Read our Tamron AF 18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD review to find out if it's too much of a compromise or not...
The Nikon Coolpix P7700 is a new compact camera for enthusiasts, offering the functionality of a DSLR without the associated bulk. The P7700 adds 1080p video, a vari-angle LCD screen, 8fps burst shooting and a faster lens to help make it an even more serious rival to the market-leading Canon Powershot series. Read our in-depth Nikon P7700 review now, complete with full-size JPEG and RAW sample images.
The Nikon D600 is a new full-frame DSLR camera. Featuring a 24.3 megapixel full-frame sensor, the small, lightweight D600 also offers 1080p HD video, ISO range of 50-25600, a 39-point AF system, 3.2-inch LCD screen and a viewfinder with 100% coverage. Read our in-depth Nikon D600 review now...
We have collected the most interesting lenses announced at (or just before) Photokina 2012. They are not necessarily the “best” lenses out there—making comparisons across multiple platforms would be quite pointless anyway—but they are all intriguing in one way or another.
The Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD is the most compact full-size, high-speed telephoto zoom lens. Equipped with VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization, and USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive), the Tamron 70-200m F/2.8 lens is currently under development with no launch date or price set. It will be available for Nikon, Canon and Sony mounts.
Canon has posted a firmware update for the Canon EOS-1D X digital SLR camera. According to the company, Version 1.0.6 incorporates the following fixes:
1. Fixes a phenomenon in which the AF Microadjustment cannot be correctly carried out.
2. Fixes a phenomenon such that when using the camera with combinations of certain lens*1) and extender*2), the images captured become back-focused.
*1) EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM or EF200mm f/2L IS USM
When used with
*2) Extender EF 1.4x III or Extender EF 2x III
Website: Canon EOS-1D X Firmware Update 1.0.6 for Windows
Website: Canon EOS-1D X Firmware Update 1.0.6 for Mac
The LensBling range from BlackRapid comprises a series of rear lens caps that allow photographers to quickly and easily differentiate between lenses they own. Made to fit either Nikon or Canon lenses of numerous sizes, the LensBling rear caps feature bright, bold and raised labelling that allows easier visibility. Marketed by JP Distribution, the BlackRapid LensBling will retail at £8.50 each.
OmegaBrandess and Phottix have announced the revolutionary Phottix Odin TTL Flash Trigger for Nikon. Consisting of an on-camera transmitter and control unit (TCU) and receivers for hot-shoe flashes, this accessory lets Nikon photographers wirelessly trigger their system flashes, retaining full TTL functions, as well as remotely control power and flash zoom settings. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the TCU and Receiver sets is $350 USD and $140 USD for individual receivers.
The NX20 is the new flagship model in Samsung's compact system camera range. The Samsung NX20 features a DSLR-like design, 3-inch swivelling AMOLED screen, high-res electronic viewfinder, 1080p video recording, built-in wi-fi connectivity and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixels. Read our in-depth Samsung NX20 review, complete with 40 JPEG and 20 RAW samples.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explores the difference between taking and making a photograph.
The Nikon D800E is a 36 megapixel full-frame sensor DSLR with the anti-aliasing filter removed, which should result in higher resolution, sharper images compared to the regular D800. The D800E also offers 1080p HD video, a 3.2-inch LCD screen and a viewfinder with 100% coverage. Read our in-depth Nikon D800E review to find out if you should choose it instead of the D800.
The Nikon D800 is one of the hottest DSLR cameras for 2012. Featuring a remarkable 36 megapixel full-frame sensor, the D800 also offers 1080p HD video, a 3.2-inch LCD screen and a viewfinder with 100% coverage. Read our in-depth Nikon D800 review to find out if it's worth the £2499.00 / $2,999.95 cost of admission.
OmegaBrandess Distribution has announced 4 new Lens Guards to fit lenses and hoods from 3 7/8 inches (10 cm) in diameter all the way to 8 1/8 inches (20.5 cm). The four new Lens Guards - the XL, 2XL, Jumbo and Giant - offer the same quality and protection as DeluxGear’s current Lens Guard line. Each is a padded cover that fits snugly over the end of the lens for protection. The shock-resistant inner core is made of 0.25” (6mm) thick closed-cell neoprene and is encased in a tough 0.08” (2mm) Santoprene outer cover. Suggested list prices are $34.99 for the XL, $54.99 for the 2XL, $69.99 for the Jumbo, and $74.99 for the Giant.
Canon UK has launched a major spring cashback promotion. Running until Tuesday 5 June 2012, the offer enables customers in the United Kingdom and Ireland to claim a cashback of £25 / €30 to £175 / €200 on select Canon products including digital SLR bodies, lenses, accessories, compact cameras and inkjet printers. The last claim date for the promotion will be 31 July 2012. Click through / scroll down for the complete list of participating products.
The Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT is a weatherproof TTL flash unit with integrated radio-frequency triggering. Using one master 600EX-RT or the new ST-E3-RT radio-frequency wireless Speedlite transmitter, up to 15 600EX-RT flash units - positioned up to 30m away - can be remotely triggered. Importantly, the Speedlite 600EX-RT also retains support for standard infra-red wireless flash control. The zooming flash head covers a similar angle-of-view range as a 20-200mm lens, and the 600EX-RT boasts a guide number of 60 (in metres at ISO 100/21°) at the 200mm setting. The Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT ships with a bounce card, a diffuser that allows the flash to be used with ultra-wideangle lenses down to 14mm, a new colour filter adapter and two colour gels. Powered by four AA/LR6 batteries, the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT features a bounce-and-swivel head and a range of custom flash coverage options.
At the CP+ trade show, Kenko Tokina will be showing a mock-up of its newest full-frame lens, the Tokina SD 70-200mm f/4 (IF) FX. This constant-aperture telephoto zoom features a ring-type ultrasonic focus motor and optical image stabilisation. Measuring 168x80mm (length x maximum diameter), the Tokina AT-X Pro SD 70-200mm f/4 (IF) FX lens is a bit thicker but nearly 5mm shorter than Canon’s popular EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM. Additionally, the Tokina lens can focus somewhat closer (its close-focus point is at a distance of 1m from the sensor plane), although its maximum magnification is unknown at the time being. The release date and MSRP have not yet been revealed either.
Source: Kenko Tokina
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, looks back at the photographs that got away...
With 1.861 million net square feet of exhibit space and over 3,100 companies, CES 2012 is the largest in the show’s 44 year history, and it certainly felt like that as we made our way around the crowded hallways.
The sheer scale of the show hasn’t prevented us from bringing you 97 CES stories and literally hundreds of hands-on photos during the last couple of weeks. As CES 2012 has now officially ended, we’ve taken a quick pause for breath and looked back on the show to choose our Best of CES products.
Despite a seemingly endless series of leaks before the show even began, the Fujifilm X-Pro1 is our pick of CES 2012. It’s a serious mirrorless camera aimed at professionals, with an innovative new sensor, optical and electronic viewfinder, and perhaps most importantly of a range of fast prime lenses from day one. Confirmation that an X-Pro1 Leica M adapter will also be released is even sweeter music to many photographers ears. The X-Pro1 is sure to continue the recent success that Fujifilm has previously made with the X100 and X10 models, a remarkable turn-around for a company that didn’t have a high-end camera just a couple of years ago.
Canon UK has launched a new lens cashback promotion with offers on 14 products across the EF and EF-S range when purchasing an EOS 60D, EOS 7D or EOS 5D Mark II. Lenses available in the promotion include the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS and 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM, as well as the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, 85mm f/1.8 USM, 50mm f/1.2L USM, 85mm f/1.2L II USM, 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM, 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, 17-40mm f/4L USM, 24-105mm f/4L IS USM, 70-200mm f/4L IS USM, 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM (pictured), 24-70mm f/2.8L USM and 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM. To be eligible for the cashback, you must purchase one of the selected DSLR cameras by 28th February 2012, and one of the selected lenses by 31st May 2012. The deadline for claims is 30th June 2012.
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has launched a digital photography contest for US residents. The “Best Shots” competition is now open for entries and photo submissions will be accepted until 23 December. Entrants can submit one photo in each of four categories: people, travel, pets and cell phone shots. A slate of expert judges will select the finalists, and winners will be determined by an online popular vote running from 9-12 January 2012. The grand prize winner, to be announced on 13 January at the 2012 International CES, will receive a Nikon D3100 digital SLR camera kit. As always, we suggest that you read the rules before entering your work.
Sigma Corporation of America has announced the price and availability of the new Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM lens. Successor to the 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM “Mark I”, Sigma’s newest superzoom lens features FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, and SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements for the correction of colour aberrations. Additionally, the manufacturer’s Super Multi-Layer Coating is also there to reduce flare and ghosting throughout the entire zoom range. An iris diaphragm with seven rounded blades and an Optical Stabiliser promising approximately 4 stops’ worth of image stabilisation round off the features list. The Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM lens is available now in Canon and Nikon mounts for the MSRP of $720. As reported earlier, the UK price will be £499.99.
The Nikon Coolpix P7100 is a new compact camera for the aspiring photographer, offering most of the functionality of a DSLR without the associated bulk. A more responsive and more intuitive version of last year's model, the P7100 is an even more serious rival to the market-leading Canon Powershot G12. Read our in-depth Nikon P7100 review to find out if this really is a serious challenger.
Sigma has announced the release of the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM lens. Successor to the 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM “Mark I”, Sigma’s newest superzoom lens features FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, and SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements for the correction of colour aberrations. Additionally, the manufacturer’s Super Multi-Layer Coating is also there to reduce flare and ghosting throughout the entire zoom range. An iris diaphragm with seven rounded blades and an Optical Stabiliser promising approximately 4 stops’ worth of image stabilisation round off the features list. The Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM lens will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Canon, Pentax and Sony fit (the last two do not incorporate optical stabilisation), for an SRP of £499.99.
Kenro has re-announced the UK release of the Tokina AT-X 16.5-135mm f3.5-5.6 DX lens for cropped-sensor Canon and Nikon digital SLR cameras. This compact zoom lens uses an optical design that benefits from three aspherical elements, one all-glass precision-moulded element and two compound elements yielding high contrast. Additionally two Super-low Dispersion (SD) glass elements correct chromatic aberration. The recommended retail price of the Tokina AT-X 16.5-135mm f/3.5-5.6 superzoom lens has a recommended retail price of £816.
Canon has won four awards from the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). The Association has found the Canon EOS 600D (read review) to be the best entry-level digital SLR camera released in the past 12 months, awarded the Best Superzoom Camera title to the Powershot SX230 HS (pictured), honoured the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II USM lens with the “Best Professional Lens” award, and hailed the Pixma MG8150 as the best multifunction photo printer.
The Sigma APO 70-200mm f2.8 EX DG OS HSM has won a TIPA award for being the best “expert” lens in 2011. Announced a year ago, the Sigma APO 70-200mm f2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens contains two of the company’s new “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements and comes with optical image stabilisation as well as a HyperSonic Motor for quiet auto focus. Constructed of 22 elements in 17 groups, the lens has a filter thread size of 77mm and has an iris diaphragm with 9 rounded blades for smooth bokeh. Like most Sigma lenses, the APO 70-200mm f2.8 EX DG OS HSM is available for a number of different SLR systems, including Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sigma and Sony/Minolta.
The NX11 is the third model in Samsung's compact system camera range, adding compatibility with the innovative iFunction, which allows you to change key camera settings using the focus ring on the lens. The Samsung NX11 also features a DSLR-like design, 3 inch AMOLED screen, electronic viewfinder, 720p video and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 14.6 megapixels. Read our in-depth Samsung NX11 review, complete with 40 JPEG and 15 RAW samples.
The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM lens was released back in 2004 as a smaller, lighter alternative to Canon's L-series telephoto lenses, yet still offering superb image quality thanks to its Diffractive Optical (DO) element. With the recent release of the 70-300mm L series lens, which we enthusiastically reviewed last week, is the slightly cheaper 70-300mm DO lens still worth considering? Read our Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM review to find out.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to set a camera's white balance for landscapes.
Tamron USA has just launched MyPhotoExhibits, an innovative way for photographers looking to showcase their favourite images in a unique, free online venue. Photographers simply set up a user avatar and bio, upload their favourite high-resolution images, and create a personalised exhibit space with a three-dimensional effect. After organising the exhibit and captioning the photographs, users can put the finishing touches on their exhibit space, choosing from a variety of gallery spaces (wall and floor textures and colours), photo frames, furniture, and lighting options.
The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM is a new compact L-series telezoom lens. It offers the usual high build quality of Canon's luxury lenses, optical image stabilisation, a ring-type ultrasonic motor for fast auto-focusing, and an eight-blade circular diaprhragm which promises excellent bokeh. That distinctive white coating doesn't come cheap, though, so read our Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM Review to find out if it's worth the investment.
Canon UK has issued a notice to Canon users regarding AF operation with certain camera-lens combinations. Specifically, those using the Canon EOS 7D, 40D, 50D or 60D camera with one of the lenses below may find that the peripheral AF points work as line sensors rather than cross sensors, and are therefore sensitive to vertical OR horizontal detail only, but not both at the same time. Normally, if you use any EF or EF-S lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, all AF points on these cameras should work as cross-type AF points, but this does not apply to the lenses listed below. These are quite old lenses - all of them were released between 1990 and 1995.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to pack your camera bag.
DxO Labs have launched DxOMark 2011, the latest version of its online service for image quality data. DxOMark 2011 includes a new ranking system that compiles data in an intuitive and comprehensive overall score, and easier navigation and image quality data access. With this update to DxOMark, DxO Labs have revised their Peak Score – now called the “DxOMark Score” –, taking into account more difficult lighting conditions, corresponding to low-light indoor scenes. Under such conditions, high scores are earned by lenses featuring high f numbers so long as their optical performance stays high at the widest apertures, the company says.
Kenro has announced the UK release of the Tokina AT-X 16.5 135mm DX lens.Offering an equivalent angle of view to 25-200mm, the Tokina 16.5-135mm lens is well suited to scenic and travel photography. Three aspherical elements, one all glass precision-molded element and 2 compound elements yield high contrast. Additionally two Super-low Dispersion (SD) glass elements correct chromatic aberration. The lens comes with either a Canon or Nikon fit and has a recommended retail price of £799.
We've selected our top picks for this year's Holiday season, all the way from the cheapest digital compact up to the most expensive DSLR and everything in between. So no matter what your budget, make sure that you consult the Photography Blog Holiday Gift Guide for 2010 before splashing out your hard-earned cash.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, describes his perfect camera.
The EOS 60D is a new kind of DSLR camera from Canon, blending features from the cheaper 550D / / Rebel T2i and the more expensive 7D to exactly occupy the middle ground between the two. Aimed at the well-heeled amateur with a penchant for video, the 60D is the first EOS camera to offer an articulated LCD screen, making it easier to shoot both stills and importantly video. Read our expert Canon EOS 60D Review to find out if Canon's new prosumer DSLR is a worthy addition to the EOS range.
Nikon have been closely competing with Canon in the DSLR arena for many years, but they've always come second-best (or worse) in the compact camera market. The new Coolpix P7000 is a clear attempt to redress that balance, with a completely revised design that is aiming for the jugular of the market-leading Canon PowerShot G-series. Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix P7000 review to find out if it can topple the King from his throne...
Ahead of our full review next week, here's a quick preview of the Nikon Coolpix P7000 camera, including some full-size sample photos.
To celebrate the company’s 60 years of being in business, Tamron USA has announced a promotion which involves giving away 60 Tamron SP 70-300mm Di VC USD zoom lenses. For the next 60 days, every US resident that’s signed up to receive Tamron news by e-mail will automatically be entered into the prize draw. Each day, one lucky winner will get a Tamron SP 70-300mm Di VC USD lensm with four other entrants winning other prizes ranging from $15 to $499 in value. For complete details and to sign up to enter Tamron’s 60th Anniversary 60-Day Lens Giveaway, visit the website below.
Website: Tamron USA
Tamron’s anniversary model SP 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens features VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization and an ultrasonic auto-focus drive. Available for the Nikon mount on August 26, 2010, with the launch of mounts for Canon and Sony to follow, the SP 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di VC USD lens can be used with both full-frame sensor and APS-C sensor cameras, where the angle of view will change the zoom range to 109-465mm.
Sigma has announced that its new, optically stabilised APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens, which contains the company’s new “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) lens glass, is now available in the United States. Constructed of 22 elements in 17 groups, the lens has a filter thread size of 77mm and has an iris diaphragm with 9 rounded blades for smooth bokeh. Two FLD glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration, the company says. Supplied with a tripod collar and a petal type lens hood, the Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM weighs in at 1,430 grams and is available in the United States for the MSRP of $2,470.
The Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM full-frame telezoom lens is now available in Japan. Constructed of 22 elements in 17 groups, the lens has a filter thread size of 77mm and has an iris diaphragm with 9 rounded blades for a smooth bokeh. Two FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration, the company says. Supplied with a tripod collar and a petal type lens hood, the Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM weighs in at 1,430 grams and is available in Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Sony and Pentax fit. Film camera users should be aware that the Optical Stabiliser (OS) does not work when the lens is mounted to film SLRs except for the and Canon EOS-1V.
Website: Sigma
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to choose the best wide-angle lenses for you.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to choose the best telephoto lenses for you.
The new Sigma 50-500mm f4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM has now arrived in the UK. Presently available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon fittings, the Sigma 50-500mm f4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM has a suggested retail price of £1399.99. The Pentax and Sony versions will follow shortly, said Paul Reynolds of Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd. Incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function, the Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration, the company says.
Sigma USA has announced that the Canon version of the newly-upgraded Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM is now available at retail. Incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function, the Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration, the company says. The Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM lens is now available for purchase in Canon mounts through authorised Sigma dealers at the MSRP of $2,400 (Amazon is actually offering it at $1,599 but it still says it “has not yet been released”). Nikon mounts will be available later this month, and they will be followed by Sigma, Pentax and Sony mounts in April.
Canon Japan has announced that there is a shortage of Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens due to higher-than-expected demand. Announced at the beginning of this year, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features enhanced optical performance thanks to a fluorite element and a fifth UD element. Other noticeable improvements include faster auto-focus, a wider focusing ring, and sleeker design by reducing the thickness of any protruding elements such as the switch panel. Despite the shortage announced today, the lens appears to be in stock at a number of online retailers.
Source: Canon Japan via 1001 Noisy cameras
Bibble Labs has just issued an update to Bibble 5 Pro. Version 5.0.3 adds raw support to the Canon EOS 550D and the Olympus E-PL1 digital system cameras, plus lens aberration correction for the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, the Zoom-Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED AF-S and the Zoom-Nikkor 14-24mm f/2.8G ED AF-S lenses. This is a free update for registered users.
Website: Bibble Download Centre
The catchily named "mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras" are quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with, a fact that Samsung have recognised with the launch of their own rival system to the Micro Four Thirds standard. The Samsung NX10 is the first model in the new series, featuring a DSLR-like design, large 3 inch AMOLED screen, electronic viewfinder, 720p video and a large APS-C CMOS sensor with 14.6 megapixels. With 30mm pancake, 18-55mm and 50-200mm lenses and a smattering of accessories available from day one and five more lenses to follow this year, Samsung are certainly making a sizeable investment in their compact/DSLR hybrid system. Read our Samsung NX10 review, complete with 50 JPEG samples and 12 RAW, to find out if it can out-perform its Olympus and Panasonic rivals.
The Sigma APO 70-200 F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is a new fast telephoto lens. Equipped with optical stabilisation, the Sigma 70-200mm has a large maximum aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range. The lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), ensuring a quiet and high speed AF as well as full-time manual focus capability. For digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor, a dedicated hood adapter, which expands the length of the lens hood, is supplied.
The Sigma 50-500mm f5-6.3 DG OS HSM is an ultra telephoto lens offering a 10x zoom ratio. Incorporating Sigma’s original Optical Stabiliser function, the Sigma 50-500mm f5-6.3 offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of colour aberration. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-700mm F6.3-8 or a 100-1000mm F9-12.6 MF zoom lens respectively.
The 50 millionth Canon EF lens has just gone into production. This landmark was achieved during the manufacture of the EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens. Canon has produced over 10 million lenses in just under two years.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to choose the best lenses for you.
Over the past week we posted over 50 CES-related articles, mostly product announcements, so don’t blame yourself if you are feeling a little overwhelmed and wondering if there have been any major pieces of news among these. We’ve just put together a list of what we thought were the most interesting photography-related products announced before or at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show. But before we delve into these, let’s summarise in a few words the main tendencies that emerge from this avalanche. Firstly, the sheer number of digital compact cameras announced was way beyond expectations. In some cases, the companies didn’t even bother to highlight the differences between the models in any detail, or indeed differentiate the cameras in any meaningful way. Secondly, it’s evident that certain features that used to come at a premium are now must-haves in entry-level models too. These include HD video, at least 4x zoom and image stabilisation. While there still are 3x zoom models with VGA video recording and no optical or mechanical image stabilisation, these are becoming the exception rather than the rule. Thirdly, 2010 has brought the almost total victory of the SD card, with both Olympus and Sony giving in to the trend. While Sony is still making Memory Sticks, it has announced its own branded SD/SDHC cards, and made all of its new compacts capable of reading them. Olympus apparently said goodbye to its xD cards and also made its newest cameras compatible with SD. Meanwhile, CES 2010 also saw the appearance of the first SDXC cards and SDXC host devices.
After these general tendencies, let us now see the products that have grabbed our attention the most.
Canon today introduced the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens. Built for the professional, the body structure of the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens has been enhanced to provide better durability and strength without a significant increase in weight, the manufacturer claims. Canon has improved optical performance on the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens by redesigning the internal elements, incorporating a fluorite element and a fifth UD element. The use of the fluorite element and five UD elements helps to minimise secondary chromatic aberrations and produce better image quality with improved contrast and resolution through the entire zoom range. Along with its redesigned optical elements, the new lens design features improved AF speed due to a new focusing algorithm and Canon has reduced the minimum focusing distance to 3.9 feet (1.2 metres) through the entire zoom range. The enhanced magnesium alloy barrel design of the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens features added strength with a minimal 20-gram increase in weight compared with the previous model (1490g vs. 1470g) and retains Canon’s protective seals and fittings providing dust and water resistance for those photographers working in adverse conditions. Other noticeable improvements include a wider focusing ring, and sleeker design by reducing the thickness of any protruding elements such as the switch panel. The new lens is scheduled to be delivered to dealers in April, price to be determined.
The innovative Don Zeck lens caps for long telephoto lenses, which used to be manufactured for Canon lenses only, are now available for most high-end AF-S / VR Nikkors. Don Zeck lens caps have been engineered for superior protection from scratches, dust, rain and other hazards. The lens caps are equipped with a collapsible low-profile handle, so that the cap can easily be mounted or removed while the hood is in either the shooting or stored position. The Don Zeck lens cap is now available for the 200mm F2.0 VR, 300mm F2.8 VR, 300mm F2.8 AF-S, 400mm F2.8 VR, 400mm F2.8 AF-S, 500mm F4 VF, 500mm F4 AF-S, 600mm F4 VR and the 200-400mm F4 VR Nikkors, in addition to a number of large Canon EF lenses. The “Don Zeck Lens Cap” sells for $54.95 and comes with a 30 day money back guarantee as well as a lifetime warranty for materials and workmanship.
Website: Don Zeck
Kata invites you to design your dream photo bag, and submit it to their Dream Bag Challenge. Each bag will be reviewed by a professional panel of judges. The best design will be selected as the winner, and built exclusively for the designer and packed full of high-end photo equipment, including a Canon EOS 5D Mark II digital SLR camera body, an EF 24-105mm f/4L USM and an EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM lens, a Gitzo Traveler Kit and a Litepanels Micro Pro lighting kit. For more information, visit the website below.
Website: Kata Dream Bag Challenge
In addition to the special rebates announced two months ago, Tamron USA now has a mail-in rebate offer on its two newest lenses: SP AF17-50mm F/2.8 XR VC Di II LD Aspherical IF and SP AF60mm F/2.0 Di II LD IF 1:1 Macro. The two new lenses are designed for APS-C size DSLRs and are available in Canon and Nikon mounts (plus Sony in the case of the macro). The $25 rebate is valid on purchases of these lenses made by US residents at an authorized Tamron USA retailer from 15 October 2009 through 31 December 2009. As noted, there are other, ongoing rebates on offer too: consumers receive $70 back on the 18-270mm VC and $60 on the 18-200mm, both popular and award-winning all-in-one zooms, when purchased between until the end of this year
Our regular columnist, one of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how you can achieve the perfect exposure.
Think Tank Photo has announced its first-ever camera bag system dedicated solely to multimedia DSLRs. In their words, a “multimedia DSLR” is defined as a DSLR that has the ability to take still photos, video, and audio required to create a multimedia presentation. The company says that after numerous expert interviews, it became evident that one of the biggest challenges was managing the numerous cords and cables that need to be “wired up” between the various devices. Think Tank Photo thus created a system of “cable ports” or holes in the sides and bottom of the bags that allows the devices to be connected together and managed to minimise exposed wires and cables. The products developed so far include the Multimedia Wired Up 10 and 20 belt systems, the Multimedia Mic Drop In modular component, the Multimedia Recorder modular case, the Wired Up Big Audio case and a Wired Up Wireless Mic Kit. Read on / click through for the details.
Canon’s new Hybrid Image Stabilizer is the world’s first optical Image Stabilizer to compensate for both angular camera shake and shift camera shake. Making it’s debut in a new SLR lens due for release before the end of 2009, the Hybrid Image Stabilizer optimally compensates for angular camera shake (rotational) and shift camera shake (linear), using a new acceleration sensor that determines the amount of shift-based camera shake.
The new Pentax K-7 digital SLR camera is one of the big surprises of 2009, offering a multitude of desirable features in a compact, weatherproof body. The K7 is the latest DSLR to feature a HD movie recording mode, in addition to its 14.6 megapixel still images. Other highlights include a dedicated HDR mode, improved 11-point auto-focus, high-res 3 inch LCD screen and optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage. Can the Pentax K-7 take on and beat the likes of the Nikon D300 and Canon EOS 50D? Read our in-depth review with test shots, JPEGS, RAW files and movie to find out...
Our regular columnist, one of the UK’s leading landscape and travel photographers, <a href="http://www.davidnoton.com/">David Noton</a>, travels 16,000 miles to Bali for one photo.
In our latest Techniques article, expert traveller and pro photographer Steven Frischling confronts the dilemma of which camera equipment to take on your travels.
Canon have just unveiled the 15.1-megapixel Canon EOS EOS 500D / Rebel T1i digital SLR. The new camera is the first Rebel to feature HD video capture - 720p at 30fps as well as Full HD 1080p at 20fps. Other highlights include a Digic 4 image processor, 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion, a three-inch, 920,000-dot rear screen, Auto Lighting Optimiser, Creative Auto Mode and Live View. Continuous shooting is available at 3.4 frames per second, for up to 170 JPEG or 9 raw images when using a class 6 or higher SD or SDHC memory card. The Canon EOS 500D / Rebel T1i provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 3200 in whole stop increments, along with two additional high-speed ISO settings – H1: 6400 and H2: 12800. Live View comes in three flavours, Quick, Live and Face Detection Live. To combat any dust particles that may have settled on its 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, the Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / EOS 500D has been upgraded with a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance.
The Canon EOS Rebel T1i / EOS 500D digital SLR is scheduled for delivery in May, at an estimated body-only price of $799.99. Throwing in an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS kit zoom will set you back an additional $100. In Europe, the recommended retail price is £869.99 / €999.99 for the body and £969.99 / €1139.99 for the afore-mentioned kit including VAT. There’s also an additional 500D kit with the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens priced at £1399.99 / €1639.99.
The Tokina AT-X 16.5-135 DX is a new ultra wide-range zoom lens for DSLR cameras with APS-C sensors. Offering an equivalent angle of view to 25-200mm, the Tokina 16.5-135mm lens is well suited to scenic and travel photography. Three aspherical elements, one all glass precision-molded element and 2 compound elements yield high contrast. Additionally two Super-low Dispersion (SD) glass elements correct chromatic aberration. The Tokina AT-X 16.5-135 DX will be available in the US for Nikon cameras in June and Canon in July.
The Sigma 50-200mm F4-5.6 DC OS HSM is a new high-performance telephoto zoom lens. It incorporates Sigma’s Optical Stabilisation system which allows the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than normal. The lens is also compatible with the anti-shake function of Sony and Pentax DSLRs. The Sigma 50-200mm F4-5.6 DC OS HSM will be available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony mounts.
Canon USA are offering $200 off the purchase of an EOS DSLR, EF lens and a Speedlite flash. Purchases must be made between February 11, 2009 - March 1, 2009. Qualifying Products:
Cameras - EOS-1Ds Mark III, EOS-1D Mark III, EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 50D, EOS 40D
Lenses - EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM, EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
Flash - Speedlite 580EX II
Website: Canon $200 Mail-In Rebate
Canon have unveiled their latest rebate promotion, covering a selection of lenses and flashguns. There’s up to $125 off lenses, including $50 off the brand new Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens (pictured), and $50 off flashguns. All the rebates run from 19th October 2008 to 17th January 2009.
Website: Canon USA - Current Promotions
Photokina is over for another 2 years, so we’ve looked back at some of the most notable developments from the World’s biggest photography show.
Leica S System
Undoubtedly the greatest surprise of this year’s Photokina was Leica’s announcement of the new S system. The German manufacturer did not simply launch a new, high-resolution camera with an assortment of lenses to go with it. They did not simply introduce a new mount either. Instead they announced a completely new camera format, something that hasn’t happened since the debut of the FourThirds system five years ago.
Tamron have announced the development of a 15x, 18-270mm digital SLR zoom lens, providing the world’s biggest zoom ratio. The new Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical (IF) MACRO has an equivalent focal length of 28-419mm on cameras with APS-C sized image sensors, and is equipped with a Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism. The 18-270mm Di II VC allows close focusing down to 0.49m (20 inches) from the subject with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.5. The Tamron 18-270mm lens will be available in Canon and Nikon mounts. Availability and price are to be confirmed.
Update: We have a gallery of photos of the Tamron 18-270mm lens from Photokina - click the continue link below…
The Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC is a new 15x zoom lens for Nikon DSLR cameras with built-in motors. Providing a focal length equivalent to 28-419mm, the Tamron 18-270mm lens is also equipped with a highly effective Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism. Note that this lens is designed for exclusive use on digital SLR cameras equipped with smaller sized (APS-C sized) image sensors. The new Tamron 18-270mm lens for Nikon digital SLRs with built-in motors will be available in Japan from September 20th 2008.
The Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is a new 11x zoom lens. Offering an equivalent focal length of 29-320mm, the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is designed exclusively for use with EOS cameras featuring an EF-S lens mount. The EF-S 18-200mm features a 16 element, 12 group construction, close focusing distance of just 45cm, and 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer. The Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is available from the end of September 2008 priced at £549.99 / €729.99 / $699.00.
The-Digital-Picture have just reviewed the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM II Macro lens.
“I was very disappointed to yet receive another front-focusing copy of the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM II Macro Lens on my third attempt. Two of these lenses came from B&H and a third came from Amazon.com (just to mix things up). I tested these lenses on two Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III bodies (one is Canon-calibrated) and a Canon EOS 40D body. All delivered the same AF results - consistently front-focusing. I don’t plan to try a fourth copy.”
Website: The-Digital-Picture - Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 Lens Review
DxO Optics Pro 5.2 features a new RAW converter that dramatically improves noise reduction in ultra-high ISO images, plus support for three new camera bodies. The Pentax K20D, Sony-A350 and Sony-A700 DSLRs are now supported, and it also inlcudes the DxO Optics Pro Import plug-in for Adobe Photoshop. New lens correction modules have also been added for the Samsung GX20 and the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi. To celebrate the release of DxO Optics Pro v5.2, DxO Labs is extending the special DxO FilmPack free license offer until July 31, 2008.
The-Digital-Picture have reviewed a new professional EF lens, the Canon EF200mm f/2L IS USM.
“The Canon EF 200mm f/2.0 L IS USM Lens is at its release the shortest fixed-focal-length (prime) lens to have Image Stabilization. This IS implementation is rated by Canon for a state-of-the-art up-to-4-stops of improvement - and I find the improvement to be as-rated. After a long day of physical labor (around the house), and after well over 250 shots taken handheld (this is a heavy lens), I could still take sharp handheld shots at 1/5 sec with this lens as demonstrated in the sample comparison below.”
Website: The-Digital-Picture - Canon EF200mm f/2L IS USM Review
The Tamron SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD (IF) MACRO now has a built-in AF motor, making it compatible with Nikon’s APS-C DSLR cameras. The Tamron 70-200mm lens provides a field of view equivalent to 105-300mm when used with the Nikon D60, D40x and D40. Tamron have revealed that the new lens will be launched in Japan on May 30th 2008.
Canon UK is offering cash back across 19 products in its popular EOS range, including £150/€200 off the Canon EOS 5D. Running from 1st March 2008 until 30th June 2008, other savings include £100/€150 off the EOS 40D and £45/€60 off the EOS 400D. EOS accessories and Canon’s Photo Kits are also included in the promotion. To claim their Cash Back, customers need to log on to www.canon-europe.com/2008promotions and follow the step-by-step guide.
The Sigma APO 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG is the world’s first Ultra-Telephoto Zoom Lens that offers a fast aperture of F2.8 at 500mm focal length. It covers widely used focal lengths from 200mm to 500mm and has a large aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range. The 200-500mm lens is so big that it has its own dedicated Li-ion battery BP-21 to power the zooming and AF operation! The Sigma APO 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG will be available in April 2008 for a whopping £16,000.
The new Tamron SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD (IF) MACRO is a fast tele-zoom lens for digital SLRs with with 35mm full-size image sensors. The new lens offers the best-in-class minimum focusing distance of 37.4” (0.95m) over the entire zoom range. The Tamron SP AF70-200mm offers a focal length range from 109-310mm on a DSLR with an APS-C size sensor. The Canon mount is scheduled for spring delivery, with Nikon, Pentax and Sony versions to be announced at a later date. Price and availability of the Tamron 70-200mm F/2.8 lens to be announced.
DxO Optics Pro v5 (Standard and Elite Editions) now supports the Nikon D300. Support for the Nikon D3 and the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III will be added in early February in the Elite edition.
Canon UK held a glitzy event for their new Spring collection of products this morning at the Science Museum in Central London. Against a somewhat ironic backdrop of Euro 2008 (well, at least for us England supporters), which Canon are sponsoring, no less than 36 new products were shown off to over 200 members of the press and trade. In a somewhat low-key line-up from the camera side of things, the new Canon EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi stood out as the main draw - unless you can afford several thousand pounds for the new 800mm and 200mm lenses, that is. We managed to make our way through the throng and literally grab a couple of minutes with the Canon 450D, plus get hands-on with the new Digital IXUS 80 IS and A-series Powershot compacts. Click the link below to view a selection of “live” product shots…
Canon have unveiled two new professional EF lenses, the EF200mm f/2L IS USM and EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM. Both lenses feature a 4-stop Image Stabilizer and incorporate L-series lens optics. With its large f/2 aperture, the EF200mm f/2L IS USM will appeal to photographers who require a brighter lens for indoor sports and portraiture photography. The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM enhances Canon’s super telephoto range with the longest focal distance of any EF lens on the market. The EF200mm f/2L IS USM will be available from April 2008 priced at £4499.99 / €6659.99. The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM will be available from June 2008 priced at £8999.99 / €13299.99.
The winners of Tamron’s “An Emotional Appeal” 2007 photo competition have been announced. “Mixed Emotions” by Lance Taylor was chosen as the Grand Prize Picture and wins a Tamron AF 18-250mm lens for a picture of his wife Jacqueline and 3-year old daughter Jillian at a beach near Corolla, North Carolina. Tamron has also just announced the “An Emotional Appeal” 2008 Photo Contest - the deadline for entries is 11/30/08.
The winners of Tamron’s “Make Your Mark: Landmarks—Natural or Manmade” 2007 Photo Contest have been announced. The contest was open to U.S. residents submitting any original photograph prominently including a natural or manmade landmark that was taken with a Tamron lens. Tracy Arcari of Wheatogue, Connecticut took top honors for her breathtaking picture of The Mittens (pictured), a justly renowned rock formation in Monument Valley, Arizona. The theme for Tamron’s big 2008 Photo Contest is “Wet & Wild,”.
Prototypes of the new Canon 200mm f/2L IS USM and Canon 800mm f/5.6L IS USM lenses will be shown PhotoPlus Expo this week. The Canon 800mm f/5.6L IS USM delivers telephoto performance surpassing the current top-of-the-line EF 600mm f/4L IS USM super telephoto lens. The Canon EF 200mm f/2L IS USM is targeting users seeking a brighter lens for portraiture and indoor sports photography. “These new lenses demonstrate that Canon is continuing to respond actively and flexibly to the wide-ranging needs of professional and advanced amateur users, with the aim of contributing to the expansion of photographic possibilities for SLR cameras,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. As these new lenses are currently under development, pricing and availability information is not yet available.
Canon has launched a second cash back promotion to run across the Christmas selling period. You have the chance to save over £1,000/€1,500 across 24 products, including the EOS 400D (£50/€70), the EOS 40D (£50/€70) and the EOS 5D (£135/€200) DSLR cameras. The promotion also includes aselection of lenses and accessories. The cash back offer also applies across all of Canon’s Photo Kits. A full breakdown of all the various offers is available by clicking the link below.
You can win a Tamron AF18-250mm Di II All-In-One Zoom Lens as part of Digital Scrapbooking Day, held this year on November 3rd. Triscape created Digital Scrapbooking Day to encourage scrapbookers, photographers, crafters, and genealogists to set aside some time to preserve, document, and archive their memories digitally. You can enter to win the lens at http://www.tamron.com/lenses/digital_scrapbook07.asp , until the contest closes on 12/10/07.
Website: Tamron 18-250mm Lens Prize Draw
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new Canon EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera.
“The focus problem is a tragic flaw worthy of Sophocles. We used the Mark III with a 24-70mm and a 70-200mm zoom. Those lenses should not challenge the 45-spot autofocus system, but the problem was bad enough to show up with it. After the firmware fix, we couldn’t reproduce the problem, but that’s really not good enough. It doesn’t prove the problem is fixed for more challenging conditions. Canon is in the difficult position of proving a negative: that the focus problem no longer exists.”
Canon has won three EISA awards. The Canon EOS-1D Mark III was voted European Professional Camera 2007-2008. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM lens was named European Professional Lens 2007-2008. The Canon PowerShot G7 won European Advanced Compact Camera 2007-2008. “These three awards are a worthy reflection of our commitment to innovation and imaging excellence that runs through all of our product groups.” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe.
SLRGear have have reviewed the new Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM lens, which offers up to 4 stops of image stabilisation with 2 modes and a compact, lightweight body.
“It usually goes without saying that a zoom lens won’t come close to matching the performance of a good prime (non-zoom) lens at any given focal length. But is that always the case? When we tested the non-IS version of this lens, we were mightily impressed with its image quality across the board. The new IS (Image Stabilized) version of it is at least as good, prompting senior tech Jim Tanner to look into just how it did stack up against excellent primes at various focal lengths.”
PMA 2007: The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS is the second Sigma lens to feature an Optical Stabiliser to compensate for camera shake. Two sensors inside the Sigma 18-200mm lens detect vertical and horizontal movement of the camera and move the optical image stabilizing lens group. The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS will cost £439.99, launch date to be announced.
Pricing has now been confirmed for all the new Canon EOS related products that were announced at the end of February at the Spring Launch event. Availability TBC on all products listed below.
- EOS 1D Mark III DSLR camera priced at £3049.99 RRP inc. VAT.
- EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens is priced at £1319.99 RRP inc.VAT
- Speedlite 580EX II flashgun is £399.99 RRP inc.VAT
- Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E2 is £649.99 RRP inc.VAT
- Original Data Security Kit OSK-E3 is £599.99 RRP inc.VAT.
DxO Optics Pro v4.1 now supports the popular Nikon D40 digital SLR camera, as well as adding 11 new lens correction modules, with over 450 modules now available. DxO Optics Pro is a digital image enhancement tool incorporating optics, noise and exposure corrections. DxO Optics Pro v4.1 is available immediately on the DxO Labs Web site (http://www.dxo.com).
Focus on Imaging 2007, Europe’s biggest annual imaging event, takes place as usual at the NEC in Birmingham, UK. It opens on Sunday, February 25th and runs until Wednesday, February 28th. Nikon will have an exciting new stand, which will enable more hands on contact with the products and allow visitors to get advice from the team of Nikon experts. A number of Nikon’s products which will be getting their exhibition debut at the show. PhotographyBLOG will be there to bring you all the latest news.
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:
1. Concert Audio For Digital Camera Videos
2. SDHC Write Speed For Digital Camera Videos
Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, inventor, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imagination run wild. Email all your nagging digital camera questions to: [email protected] , and then, En Garde!
You may also attach to your email an ORIGINAL PHOTO of your choosing. A preview of the photo will be displayed with your question, and a full-sized version will be just a click away. No personal information will be published with your question unless you specifically include it in the text or attached photo of your email, which may be further edited for grammar, content, or other reasons.
The-Digital-Picture have reviewed the new Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM lens, which offers up to 4 stops of image stabilisation with 2 modes and a compact, lightweight body.
“Canon’s first 4-stop Image Stabilizer makes this lens just as handholdable in low light as the extremely popular 70-200 f/2.8 IS with its 3-stop stabilizer and wider aperture. You can shoot with this lens hand held at an up-to-4-stop slower shutter speed than with the non-IS Canon 70-200mm f/4 L USM Lens. For example (and theoretically), if you need a shutter speed of 1/250 at 200mm without IS to achieve sharp images, you can shoot at 1/15 with the 70-200 f/4 IS with similar results - this is a huge difference. The image stabilizer will compensate for camera movement during the shot (within limits of course).”
Website: The-Digital-Picture - Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS Lens Review
Canon USA Press Release
Great Savings on Select Products Including up to $600 on the Full-Frame EOS 5D and up to $200 on the Popular EOS 30D, and Double Rebates to Help Expand a Growing EOS System
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Oct. 16, 2006 - From fall foliage to the intensity of fourth down at the five-yard line, the autumn is full of fantastic photo opportunities. Whether expanding a current EOS system, or thinking of the family photographer for the upcoming holiday season, Canon U.S.A., Inc. helps make it easy and affordable to capture and share memories on the sidelines, at home, or out in the field. The “Cash In With Canon” Mail-In-Rebate Program returns from October 15, 2006 - January 13, 2007, providing consumers and professionals the opportunity to take advantage of big savings on an assortment of select Canon products.
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:
1. WANTED: Splashproof 28mm 7x Zoom Ultra-Compact
2. Histogram 101
3. Waiting For Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 Review
4. Telecaster Or Stratocaster
Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, inventor, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imagination run wild. Email all your nagging digital camera questions to: [email protected] , and then, En Garde!
You may also attach to your email an ORIGINAL PHOTO of your choosing. A preview of the photo will be displayed with your question, and a full-sized version will be just a click away. No personal information will be published with your question unless you specifically include it in the text or attached photo of your email, which may be further edited for grammar, content, or other reasons.
The new Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM lens offers up to 4 stops of image stabilisation with 2 modes and a compact, lightweight body. The Canon EF 70-200mm lens will be priced around £989.99 RRP VAT INC (€1429.99) and available late September.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon today announces the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM, Canon’s first interchangeable lens with 4 stop Image Stabilizer. This allows hand held photography with no perceptible image blur at shutter speeds up to 4 steps slower than otherwise possible – ideal for low light shooting without tripod or flash. Dust and moisture resistant, compact, manoeuvrable, and incorporating Canon’s finest standards of precision optics, Canon’s latest professional L-series lens is expected to be popular for travel, expedition and wildlife assignments where there is a requirement to travel light without compromising image quality.
DxO Labs Press Release
New lens modules for DxO Optics Pro Elite and Standard edition include the Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC MACRO and the new Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
New York, NY and Paris, France – August 7, 2006 – DxO Labs announces today availability of 15 new DxO Lens Modules for its DxO Optics Pro software bringing the total now to 365 lens correction modules available to DxO Optics Pro users. In addition, many existing DxO Lens Modules have been extended to more DxO-supported camera bodies. DxO Optics Pro software improves the image quality of Digital Single-Lens Reflex (D-SLR) cameras and advanced digicams. DxO Optics Pro is the award-winning digital image enhancement tool incorporating revolutionary optics, noise and exposure corrections in an easy-to-use, feature rich application for Mac and PC users. “We are constantly extending our library of DxO Lens Modules to offer photographers worldwide the greatest selection of correction capabilities,” said Luc Marin, vice president of the Photography Business Unit at DxO Labs.
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:
1. Large Sensors Just As Noisy As Small Sensors?
2. I Dream Of (A Digital Camera) Jeannie
3. It’s A Mac/Win-Win Situation
Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imagination run wild. Email all your nagging digital camera questions to: [email protected], and then, En Garde!
You may also attach to your email an ORIGINAL PHOTO of your choosing. A preview of the photo will be displayed with your question, and a full-sized version will be just a click away (unless you request otherwise). No personal information will be published with your question unless you specifically include it in the text or attached photo of your email, which may be further edited for grammar, content, or other reasons.
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:
1. 3D Digital Cameras
2. The Sharper Image
3. Goodbye, Mr. 2/3” CCD Chips
4. Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This
5. Bridge Cameras Over Troubled Waters
Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imaginations run wild. Email all your nagging questions to: [email protected], and then, En Garde!
The best question of the week will receive a small PRIZE from the PhotographyBLOG goody bag, so send your questions now.
Tamron Press Release
AF 28-200mm – High Power Zoom & AF 70-300mm Telephoto Zoom now available in Di Series
TAMRON announces the introduction of two up-graded popular Tamron lenses, both feature a Di optical sysem for use with digital and film cameras. Di (Digitally Integrated) is a designation Tamron gives lenses featuring optical systems designed to meet the performance chatacteristics of digital SLR cameras as well as film cameras. The 28-200mm was the first generation of high-powered zoom lenses originally introduced in 1992. The current 28-200mm model makes use of XR (Extra Refractive Index) glass to achieve a remarkably lightweight and compact product that has won wide acclaim and this new version incorporates improved multi-coating for digital SLR cameras as well as film cameras. The 70-300mm offers a lightweight and compact zoom lens with macro capability that can now be used with digital cameras. By flipping a macro switch in the focal length range of 180mm to 300mm, a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2 at a minimum focus distance as short as 95cm is obtained, enabling close-up shots of objects that normally require the use of a specially designed macro lens.
DxO Labs Press Release
DxO LABS ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR NIKON D200 AND CANON EOS-1D MARK II N D-SLRS IN DxO OPTICS PRO V3.5
DxO Labs adds highly sought-after camera and lens couples to its DxO Optics Pro offer.
Paris, France, February 3, 2006– DxO Labs announces today that DxO Optics Pro v3.5 Digital SLR and lens automatic image quality enhancement software now supports the recently released Nikon D200 and the Canon EOS-1D Mark II N Digital-SLRs. DxO Optics Pro v3.5 is the award-winning digital image enhancement tool incorporating revolutionary optics, noise and exposure corrections in an easy-to-use, feature rich application for Mac and PC users.
The Tamron AF55-200mm F/4-5.6 Di II MACRO LD lens is introduced today. The Tamron 55-200mm lens is designed for digital SLR cameras with APS sized (24mm x 16mm) sensors. Price and availability to be announced.
Tamron USA Press Release
TAMRON INTRODUCES AF55-200MM F/4-5.6 DI II LD MACRO
A Telephoto Zoom Designed for Exclusive Use with Digital SLR Cameras - Available at an Affordable Price
September 20, 2005, Commack, New York—Tamron announced the winter delivery of the AF55-200mm F/4-5.6 Di II MACRO LD (Model A15), a new tele-zoom designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with smaller-size image sensors* that will be available at an affordable price.
*Di (Digitally integrated)-II lenses are designed for exclusive use on digital cameras with smaller-size imagers. This lens is not designed for use with 35mm film cameras or digital SLR cameras with image sensors larger than 24mm x 16mm.
The Sigma 28-200mm F3.5-5.6 DG Macro lens is announced today. The new Sigma 28-200mm macro lens uses a multi-layer coating technology that reduces flare and ghosting. At the 200mm telephoto setting, the Sigma 28-200mm lens is capable of macro photography with a 1:3.8 maximum magnification. Price and availability of the Sigma 28-200mm F3.5-5.6 DG Macro lens to be announced.
Sigma Press Release
A compact, high-zoom ratio lens, ideal for full-frame digital SLR cameras.
This lens covers all the focal lengths from 28mm wide angle to 200mm telephoto, the most frequently used focal length range. With a maximum diameter of 70mm (2.75 in.) and length of 77.7mm (3 in.), it has a compact size.It packs a lot of performance in a compact package. Portable and mobile, the lens can be carried anywhere, so it is ideal for travel and other types of photography.
Reduction of flare and ghosting
This digitally optimized ultra telephoto lens is equipped with a new multi-layer coating technology that reduces both flare and ghosting. This also ensures an accurate color balance and high definition results.
The Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM lens is introduced. The Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths and fits both digital and film SLR cameras. Available for Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Konica Minolta cameras.
Sigma Japan Press Release
Fast aperture telephoto zoom lens that provides excellent optical performance for Digital SLR cameras and film SLR cameras
This telephoto zoom lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghosting, and also maintains minimal light-fall-off, superior peripheral brightness is ensured.
The-Digital-Picture.com have reviewed the Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens, which is mainly used for architecture and wide landscape photography.
“The Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens is a very sharp lens with excellent contrast/saturation. the TS-E 90 is sharp wide open and very sharp at f/3.2. Corner sharpness is very good even wide open. Full shift decreases sharpness (and creates autoexposure issues). The TS-E 90 is very slightly sharper than the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens at the same focal length and aperture. The Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens is also slightly sharper than the Canon TS-E 45mm f/2.8 Tilt Shift-Lens, especially wide open in the corners on a full frame body.”
Website: The-Digital-Picture.com - Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens Review
The Canon EOS 5D is announced. The Canon 5D is a 12.8 megapixel full-frame digital SLR camera. The 5D uses the Digic II processor and features a 2.5 inch LCD screen. The BG-E4 is a new battery grip designed especially for the EOS 5D. The Canon EOS 5D will be available from October 2005 for £2539.99 RRP inc. VAT/ €3699.99 RRP inc VAT.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon’s full frame, compact EOS 5D defines new D-SLR category
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the 12.8 Megapixel EOS 5D, creating a new D-SLR category combining a full frame CMOS sensor with a lightweight, compact magnesium alloy body. Weighing just 810 grams, it features a second generation 35.8 x 23.9mm CMOS sensor, 3 frame per second, 60 Large JPEG frame burst and 0.2 second start up time operation.
“The discreet full frame EOS 5D is the camera many photojournalists and agencies have been asking us for,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “It will be an indispensable piece of equipment for a wide range of professionals – from contemporary wedding to reportage photographers.”
Marking five years since Canon’s first CMOS image sensor appeared in the EOS D30, the release represents Canon’s fifth new CMOS sensor to be released since April 2004. “CMOS sensors are a critical technology advantage driving Canon’s rapid digital SLR development,” remarked Jensen.
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens is announced. The Canon 24-105mm lens features a fixed aperture of f/4 throughout the zoom range and an Image Stabiliser that allows shutter speeds of 3 stops slower than normal. The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens will be available from September 2005 priced £869.00 RRP inc. VAT/ €1259.99 RRP inc. VAT.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon’s lightweight, Image Stabiliser zoom lens for professionals – the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest professional L-series lens: the lightweight EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM with Image Stabiliser. Dust and moisture resistant and incorporating Canon’s very finest standards of precision optics, the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is designed for reportage, event, travel and celebrity photographers looking for a lightweight and manoeuvrable lens with minimal image quality compromise.
Complementing the EF 17-40mm f/4L USM and EF 70-200mm f/4L USM, the lens completes Canon’s f/4L-series zoom lens range. These lenses are designed for professional photographers requiring a light zoom lens with a fixed aperture throughout the zoom range. For outstanding camera shake reduction, Image Stabiliser allows shutter speeds of 3 stops slower than would otherwise be possible, with no perceptible increase in image blur.
The Canon PowerShot S80 compact digital camera is announced. The Canon S80 is an 8 megapixel update of the S70 and offers a 28-100mm f/2.8-5.3 lens, 2.5 inch LCD screen and Canon’s advanced image processor, DIGIC II. The Canon PowerShot S80 is available from October 2005 priced at £499.00 RRP inc VAT/ €719.00 RRP inc VAT.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon launches the new look 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot S80
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the release of the 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot S80 – the new flagship to its S-Series PowerShot range. The camera’s rich feature set includes a wide-angle 28-100 mm f/2.8-5.3 (3.6x) optical zoom lens incorporating Canon’s UA lens technology, the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon’s professional series Digital SLRs and an oversize 2.5” LCD. A striking, contemporary finish complements the compact body of the camera, which is considerably smaller than its predecessor – the PowerShot S70.
Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG MACRO lens is announced. The Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG MACRO lens offers macro photography with a 1:2 maximum magnification at the 300 mm focal length. The Sigma 70-300mm APO Macro lens is optimized for digital SLR cameras. The Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG MACRO lens is available for Sigma, Canon, Nikon-D, Pentax and Konica/Minolta cameras and costs £199.99.
Sigma UK Press Release
70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG MACRO
Telephoto zoom lens with tele-macro function optimised for digital SLR cameras.
l New design and multi layer lens coating minimise flare and ghost.
l A Macro Switch is incorporated for ease of for conversion to macro photography with a 1:2 maximum magnification.
l Equipped with three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements for excellent correction of chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range.
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 70-300mm APO F4-5.6 DG Macro lens.
Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG MACRO lens is announced. The Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG MACRO lens offers macro photography with a 1:2 maximum magnification at the 300 mm focal length. The Sigma 70-300mm Macro lens is optimized for digital SLR cameras. The Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG MACRO lens is available for Sigma, Canon, Nikon-D, Pentax and Konica/Minolta cameras and costs £149.99.
Sigma UK Press Release
Optimized for use with digital SLR cameras and capable of macro photography with a 1:2 maximum magnification.
l New multi layer lens coating minimises flare and ghost, a common problem with Digital SLR cameras.
l Engaging the Macro Switch makes the lens capable of macro photography with a 1:2 maximum magnification.
l Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass is used for compensation of chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range.
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG Macro lens.
Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM lens is announced. The Sigma 70-200mm lens is optimized for digital SLR cameras and has a new lens coating to help reduce flare and ghosting. Available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon-D, Konica Minolta and Pentax fittings, the Sigma 70-200mm lens will cost £799.99.
Sigma UK Press Release
Fast maximum aperture telephoto lens optimised for digital SLR cameras.
l Four Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements produce excellent image quality throughout the entire zoom range.
l New coating and lens design minimise flare and ghost.
l Inner focusing and inner zooming systems retain external dimensions for ease of handling.
l The HSM models provide silent, high-speed and precise auto-focusing with full time manual focus override.
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG / HSM lens.
Canon USA Press Release
“CASH IN WITH CANON” REBATE PROGRAM RETURNS WITH AN ARRAY OF REBATES
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 15, 2005 — Baseball season, picnics, family gatherings and other outdoor activities are in full swing. Canon U.S.A. helps make it easy and affordable to capture and share memories of important activities and events with a digital camera system through “Cash In With Canon” Rebate Program from April 15 — July 15, 2005.
Canon is offering mail-in rebates from $10 to $500 on select products, including the professional EOS-1D Mark II, EOS 20D and a variety of EF lenses. Additionally, Canon is offering mail-in rebates on select EX-series Speedlites and IS (Image Stabilizer) Binoculars.
“The Cash in With Canon Rebate Program makes the speed and precision of SLR photography even more affordable to consumers,” stated Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ). “We feel that this type of rebate program expands the variety of photographic possibilities for photographers while keeping their experiences affordable.”
Sigma UK Press Release
Sigma Announce Price of the New 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC
First deliveries of the eagerly anticipated Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC lens have arrived in the UK with a competitive suggested retail price of £329.99.
The 18-200mm will be available in Canon, Sigma, Nikon D and Pentax auto focus fitting. Delivery date of the Four Thirds fitting will be advised.
This high zoom ratio lens incorporates Two Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements and two hybrid aspherical lenses. This enables the lens to be housed in a compact and lightweight construction of 70mm diameter, and 78.1mm in length, and weighing just 405g. The lens also incorporates a zoom lock switch, internal focusing and a precision machine tooled metal back-mount.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon offers over £600 cash back on selected lenses and accessories
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the Canon Extra Promotion; a cash back offer exclusive to purchasers of the Canon EOS 20D or the new EOS 350D Digital. For a limited time, cash back offers between the value of £35 and £100 are available on a selection of products from Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses, extenders, EX Speedlite flash system and an Ink Jet printer.
So this is what professional photographers get up to in their spare time. Northlight Images has published a comprehensive guide to using your expensive digital SLR camera as… a pinhole camera?! Treat yourself and make a 50mm and even a 200mm zooming pinhole lens today :-)
I visited the Tamron stand today and took a few shots with the new Tamron 18-200mm digital SLR lens that has just been unveiled at PMA 2005 (Tamron AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) MACRO to give it its full name - even less appealing than the new 11-22mm lens). I already own the Tamron 28-75mm Di lens, using it on my Canon EOS 10D DSLR for the last 12 months. The Tamron 18-200mm has similar build-quality to the 28-75mm Di lens.
Canon Digital IXUS 700 is introduced today; a 7.1 megapixel digital camera, the Canon IXUS 700 features a 3.0x optical zoom, large 2.0” LCD and high quality VGA video clips at 30fps. The IXUS 700 has a silky finish and distinctive curves, while rounded contours exaggerate an already slender body. The Canon Digital IXUS 700 8% lighter than the previous top-of-range Digital IXUS 500. The IXUS 700 will be available from late March 2005 for £399.
Canon UK Press Release
7 Megapixel Digital IXUS 700 flagship sets new standards in style
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the new flagship to the IXUS range, the 7.1 Megapixel Digital IXUS 700. With a host of new features and a unique ‘Perpetual Curve’ contoured design, the camera’s brushed stainless steel ‘titanium grey’ exterior continues the IXUS tradition of pushing compact camera design into new territories.
Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC lens is announced. Designed for use with digital SLR cameras, the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC lens covers wide-angle to telephoto focal lengths and features an inner focusing system so that the front of the lens does not rotate. The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC lens is available for Sigma, Canon, Nikon, and Pentax digital SLRs. Price and availability to be confirmed.
Sigma UK Press Release
Compact, Lightweight Superzoom lens with high zoom ratio 1:11
- Exclusively designed for use with digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras.
- High zoom ratio 1:11
- Compact and Lightweight construction with diameter of 70mm (2.8”), length of 78.1mm (3.1”) and weight of 405g./14.3oz.
- Minimum focusing distance of 45cm (17.7”) at all focal lengths
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 18-200 F3.5-6.3 DC lens.
This high zoom ratio lens is exclusively designed for digital SLR cameras and capable of covering a wide range of focal lengths from wide-angle to telephoto. Two Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements and two hybrid aspherical lenses offer the utmost correction for all types of aberrations, and enable this extended range super zoom lens to be housed in a compact and lightweight construction of 70mm (2.8”) diameter, and 78.1mm (3.1”) in length, and weighing just 405g/14.3oz. The new lens coating reduces flare and ghosting, which is a common problem with digital cameras and also creates an optimum colour balance. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 45cm (17.7”) at all focal lengths and has maximum magnification of 1:4.4.
Sigma 55-200mm F4-5.6 DC Lens announced, designed specifically for digital SLR cameras. Supports Sigma, Nikon, Canon and Pentax lens mounts.
Sigma Press Release
Compact and lightweight, high-performance telephoto Zoom Lens
This compact telephoto zoom lens was exclusively designed for use with digital SLR cameras. The image circle was designed to match the size of the image sensors of digital SLR cameras that also allows compact body and lightweight. Characteristics of digital cameras were taken into consideration when designing the lens power layout, making high-quality images reality through the entire zoom range.
DxO Labs Email Newsletter
The year is finishing on a very high note at DxO Labs, especially as regards our developments for Canon users. Judge for yourself:
New from DxO for your Canon EOS 10D
We’re pleased to announce that DxO Raw Engine now supports the Canon EOS 10D. So now you can enhance your Raw-format images taken using the following lenses:
Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX Diagonal Fisheye
Canon EF15mm f/2.8 Fisheye
Canon EF50mm f/1.4 USM
Canon EF85mm f/1.2L USM
Sigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 EX DG
Canon EF16-35mm f/2.8L USM
Canon EF17-40mm f/4L USM
Sigma 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC
Canon EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM
Canon EF28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 USM (I or II)
Canon EF28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM
Tamron AF28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 XR (or XR Di)
Canon EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM (non IS)
Canon EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
Canon EF70-200mm f/4L USM
Slo-Foto.net have published an interesting comparison of six telezoom lenses; the Sigma 28-200mm, Sigma 70-200 F2.8 HSM EX, Canon 70-200 F4 L USM, Canon 70-200 F2.8 L USM, Canon 75-300 IS III and Olympus 50-200 ED.
“At this focal length (70mm) all models lack sharpness to a certain degree, which is quite understandable. Sigma’s model is a slight dissapointment, as at the biggest apetrure F2,8 it shows significantly less sharpness in comparison to competitors. This difference decreases with smaller apertures, and even reverses at the smallest one. All lenses gave best sharpness between F8 and F16. Especially Canon’s model with F2,8 gave good results over all the tested apertures.”
Website: Slo-Foto.net - Telezoom Lens Review
Canon UK Press Release 05/11/04
Canon announces two special promotions for the EOS 300D Digital SLR
- £100 cashback when purchasing the EOS 300D
- Free 256MB CF card when purchasing the EOS 300D and registering for Canon iMAGE GATEWAY
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce two very special in-store promotions for its EOS 300D Digital SLR camera and the Canon iMAGE GATEWAY; an innovative, free of charge, online image sharing portal for Canon digital camera owners. The first promotion offers customers purchasing an EOS 300D ?100 cashback. The second enables them to claim a free 256MB Compact Flash card when they purchase an EOS 300D and then register for the Canon iMAGE GATEWAY.
Tamron Press Release 28/09/04
TAMRON ANNOUNCES AF18-200MM F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II ASPHERICAL (IF) MACRO
A NEW HIGH POWER STANDARD ZOOM LENS DESIGNED FOR EXCLUSIVE USE WITH DIGITAL (APS-C) SLR CAMERAS
Photokina, Cologne, Germany, September 28, 2004 - Mr. Morio Ono, President of Tamron Co., Ltd., announced the successful development of the AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II Aspherical (IF) MACRO (Model A14), a new high power zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
The new AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II Aspherical (IF) MACRO is a high power zoom lens for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras that inherits the product concept of the existing AF28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 XR zoom lens. Even two years after its introduction, the current AF28-300mm is still a favorite and highly evaluated by photographers around the world as a representative model of high power zoom lenses. With the market influx of digital SLR cameras in recent years, the use of high power zoom lenses has become increasingly popular since high power zooms provide the convenience of handling many photographic scenes and the capability of shooting ultra telephoto shots without changing lenses. The popularity of this focal length led Tamron to initiate the development of new zoom lenses to further meet the needs of digital SLR photographers. The result is the successful development of a new zoom lens exclusively for use on digital SLR cameras. The wide to ultra tele focal range of this lens will allow digital SLR camera owners to enjoy digital photography with comfort and convenience.
*
Tamron Press Release 28/09/04
TAMRON INTRODUCES SP AF11-18MM F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD ASPHERICAL (IF)
A NEW HIGH PERFORMANCE ZOOM LENS DESIGNED FOR EXCLUSIVE USE WITH DIGITAL (APS-C) SLR CAMERAS COVERING THE ULTRA WIDEANGLE RANGE
Photokina, Cologne, Germany, September 28, 2004 - Mr. Morio Ono, President of Tamron Co., Ltd., announced the successful development of the SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) (Model A13), a new high performance ultra wideangle zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
The new SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF), an ultra wideangle zoom lens, is Tamron’s first lens designed for exclusive use with digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors. The lens provides reliable performance in a compact size to meet the needs of digital SLR camera users pursuing creativity in wideangle photography. The lens uses a new optical system specially designed for digital SLR cameras, in addition to the use of a glass-molded aspherical element having a large clear aperture, hybrid aspherical elements, and elements using such special glass materials as high index/high dispersion glass and low dispersion optical glass, for outstanding optical performance.
Canon UK Press Release 19/08/04
New look PowerShot packs 7.1 Megapixels
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the 7.1 Megapixel digital still compact PowerShot S70. Incorporating the same rich feature set as the 5.0 Megapixel PowerShot S60, the new S70 is distinguished by a stylish two-tone dark metallic and black body. New UA lens materials allow for a reduction in lens size, enabling an elegantly sleek body shape despite the lens’ impressive 28-100mm focal length and 4cm macro specification.
The extensive list of high-end and semi-professional features include simultaneous RAW and JPEG file recording, 15 sec to 1/2000 sec shutter speeds, AF and AE lock, manual focusing and an intervalometer for automatic time-lapse photography. Optional accessories include a wireless controller, 2x tele-converter and a 40m depth waterproof case. Also included is a pre-set white balance mode for underwater photography, Print/Share button and the latest PowerShot S-series user-interface for fast, simple and intuitive navigation.
Peering inside another photographer’s camera-bag is always an interesting experience, and a look inside Uwe Steinmueller’s collection of Canon lenses is no exception.
“In our work we most often use zoom lenses. 30 years ago we did not even think of touching a zoom lens (we used mainly two Nikon F2s and owned (still have them) prime lenses from 20-200mm). Why zooms today?
- Zooms improved a lot over the last 30 years
- We try to minimize lens changes as this may introduce dust into out DSLRs
- Zooms are flexible
- We may be a bit lazy :-)
But we try to stay away from zoom lenses with a huge focal range as this means that these lenses are either heavy and expensive or of inferior quality.”
Finnish photographer Pekka Saarinen has published a great review of the new 8 megapixel professional DSLR from Canon, the EOS 1D Mark II (found via Digicamera.net).
“One of the most obvious changes when you upgrade 10D to Mark II is 1.3X crop factor. Wide angle is more like wide angle and on long lenses you loose some reach. Most lenses feel a bit odd first and it will take some time before you mentally tune yourself to the new focal system. Choice of lenses may change: with 10D you collected extreme wide angle and zoomed quite far with 200mm, now you can cope quite nicely with 17-40 and you start wishing for 300 and 400mm lenses. With Mark II L series lenses are very recommended, because fast AF needs fast and accurate lenses and sharp camera is not sharp without sharp lenses.”
Canon have today announced the PowerShot S60, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a wide-angle 28mm-100mm lens and a new thin body.
You can view some sample images here:
http://www.canon.co.jp/Imaging/pss60/sample-e.html
Canon Europe Product Info
Fast, powerful and intuitive: the 5.0 Megapixel PowerShot S60 bursts with professional features, yet is compact enough to take everywhere. A finely crafted tool with which to indulge your creativity.
Features
5.0 Megapixels
3.6x wide angle optical zoom lens
Canon UA glass-moulded aspherical lens ensures slim body
13 shooting modes
DIGIC and iSAPS
9-point AiAF
Print/Share button
PictBridge/Canon Direct Print compatible
Wide range of accessories
CIG* access
As big as your imagination, as small as your pocket
Steves Digicams have published a First Look at the 8 megapixel Canon PowerShot Pro1, which was announced by Canon just before the start of the PMA 2004 trade show.
“The Pro1 features the first Canon L-series lens ever incorporated into a compact digital camera. It’s a 28-200mm (35mm format equivalent) f/2.4-3.5, 7x optical zoom constructed of 14 elements with two aspherical elements, two UD-glass elements and one Fluorite crystal element. The addition of Fluorite crystal and UD glass to the lens construction reduces the level of anomalous dispersion (chromatic aberration) compared to conventional optical glass, while the aspherical elements correct spherical aberration and allow the overall size and weight of the lens to be reduced.”
Canon Focuses on Imaging Innovation, Long-Term Leadership and a Future That Anticipates, Meets, and Exceeds Customers’ Needs
LAS VEGAS—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Feb. 9, 2004—Canon U.S.A.: Canon Raises Analog and Digital Imaging Standards Spanning Professional Product Sophistication to Point-and-Shoot Simplicity, Image Capture to Output and Photos to Video
Canon expands its commanding presence in the imaging industry with the rollout of nearly two-dozen new consumer products at the 2004 Photo Marketing Association exhibit Feb. 12 - 15. Building on the company’s recently announced record results for 2003, Canon’s big picture for 2004 features a battery of new imaging products designed to fit pro photographers’ needs and consumers’ lifestyles.
“Canon is proudly in the position of imaging industry leadership thanks to the foresight, creativity and talents of our engineers and designers who consistently find new ways to improve technology for real world applications,” said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ - News). “It is our goal - our unwavering ethic - to provide our customers with products that raise their expectations of what is possible and then deliver on and even surpass those expectations.”
Canon UK Press Release 09/02/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today cements its leadership position in digital photography with the release of the 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot Pro1, the new flagship of the PowerShot range. Targeted at professional and highly advanced photographers, the camera is the first compact from Canon to be fitted with a Canon professional L-series lens; the f/2.4-3.5, 7.2-50.8mm (28-200mm 35mm film equivalent) USM lens. An abundance of features generally reserved for Canon’s high-end digital SLR cameras combine to deliver outstanding camera performance and exceptional image quality for enlargements up to A2 size.
Professional features include RAW file recording and a hybrid AF system, combining TTL and external metering focusing systems for fast and precise auto-focus. The PowerShot Pro1 can shoot at 2.5 frames per second, and has shutter speeds from 15 sec to 1/4000 sec. The photographer is handed full control over all focus points and exposure variables. Twelve shooting modes, including two custom modes, cover a broad range of shooting situations. The camera’s purpose built DIGIC processor delivers high speed, noise free and extremely accurate colour rendition and image processing. This is the first PowerShot to support both sRGB and Adobe RGB colour spaces. Advanced photographers will recognize the PowerShot Pro1 as a ?system camera?, with complete access to Canon?s Speedlite EX flash range, close-up lenses and an optical tele-converter lens.
The latest issue of the monthly online photo magazine, Vivid Light Photography, has just been published. Highlights this month include a review of the Canon EOS 300D:
“The other misconception is that the Digital Rebel is just an EOS 10D in a plastic body. That’s like saying a Subaru WRX STi is the same as an Imprezza; hell, they look similar don’t they? Yes, the DR has a plastic body, but that’s as much of the statement is true. Let’s look at the similarities: they have the same imaging chip and similar electronics, so the image quality should be as good as the 10D and when using both cameras back to back, I haven’t noticed any difference in image quality.”
and an article called David vs. Goliath which compares consumer lenses with pro lenses:
“These are both quality lenses but they are aimed at two very different types of shooters. The trick is to figure our which type you are and buy the right lens.
The amateur who buys the 80-200mm will soon tire of hauling around its bulk and the lens will start spending more time in the drawer than on the camera. Likewise the pro who buys the 70-300mm will be frustrated by its autofocus speed and will likely damage the lens at some point through hard use. “
Website: Vivid Light Photography - Issue #33
Fairly self-explanatory - 2 product shots of the rumoured 8-megapixel Canon Powershot Pro 1…
The following specification is also completely unconfirmed:
- 28-200mm optical zoom (35mm equivalent)
- 8.3 megapixel, 2/3 inch sensor
- 8.0 effective megapixels
- Aperture range: f2.4 - f3.5
- Shutter speed range: 15 seconds - 1/4000 second
- DiGiC Processor
- Macro 10 - 50cm
- Super Macro 3-30cm
- UD lens with 14 element lens (with Flourite) and aspherical elements
The Slovenian website e-fotografija have published a very interesting comparative review of 4 different 70-200mm telephoto lenses, with Sigma, Canon, Tokina and Nikon all represented. As usual with e-fotografija’s reviews, there are a large number of sample images from all 4 lenses.
Website: e-fotografija - 70 - 200mm f/2.8 Lens Review
Website: Slovenian Translator
Sigma Corporation Press Release 27/10/03
Compact - Lightweight zoom lenses designed to suit the characteristics of digital cameras
18-50mm F3.5-5.6 DC
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 18-50mm F3.5-5.6 DC. This zoom lens was exclusively designed to suit the characteristics of digital SLR cameras. The image circle was designed to match the size of the image sensors of digital SLR cameras, and this produced a compact lens with a maximum diameter of 60mm (2.3in.), overall length of 67.5mm (2.6in.) and weight of only 245gr (8.6 ounces). It has a variable angle of view of 76.5degree-31.7degree. The use of aspherical lenses provides correction for various aberrations throughout the entire zoom range and produce high level of optical performance. 18-50mm F3.5-5.6 DC lens has a minimum focusing distance of 25cm (9.8in.) at all focal lengths and is capable of macro photography with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.5.
50-200mm F4-5.6 DC
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 55-200mm F4-5.6 DC. This compact telephoto zoom lens was exclusively designed for use with digital SLR cameras. The image circle was designed to match the size of the image sensors of digital SLR cameras that also allows compact body and lightweight with overall length of 84.6mm (3.3in.), and weight of only 310g/10.9 ounces. It has a filter size of 55mm, maximum diameter of 70mm (2.7in.). This remarkably compact high performance zoom lens is ideally suited to a wide range of subjects. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 110cm (43.3in.) and maximum magnification of 1:4.
*They cannot be used in SA-7 and SA-9 35mm film SLR cameras. Combination with these cameras may cause vignetting on the picture surface.
*If SD9 or SD10 digital cameras are used, the angle of view will be equal to 30-85mm focal length. The angle of view varies depending on the camera.
Digital Outback Photo have tested the popular Canon EF 28-135mm IS lens in conjunction with the popular Canon EOS 300D digital SLR camera, comparing this combination with the much, much more expensive Canon EOS 1Ds and Canon 70-200mm IS L lens.
“To find the right partner lens for the 300D is not trivial. Many think that the 28-135 IS lens is the right compromise for the best travel lens:
price
size
weight
reasonable optical quality
IS (image stabilization)
The following pictures should illustrate the situation…”
Website: Digital Outback Photo - 300D with Canon EF 28-135mm IS
Digital Outback Photo have continued their Canon EOS 300D Experience Report with a brief roundup of 3 Canon telephoto lenses. They have taken a look at the EF 55-200mm f/4.4-5.6 II USM, EF 75-300mm f/4.0-5.6 EF IS USM and EF 70-200mm f/4.0L USM. I know which one I’d go for - the EF 70-200mm f/4.0L USM is a great lens and a clear step above the cheaper Canon zooms. I like it so much that I bought one 2nd-hand a couple of months ago…
“Because many 300D buyers will get the kit with the EF-S 18-55mm lens they will look into the options for a longer range zoom. We looked into 3 popular options:
EF 55-200mm f/4.4-5.6 II USM
EF 75-300mm f/4.0-5.6 EF IS USM
EF 70-200mm f/4.0L USM
These lenses all perform better than on full frame film or on the EOS 1Ds because the 300D only uses a smaller crop of the frame.”
Website: Digital Outback Photo - Canon EOS 300D Experience Report
After a busy week I’ve finally found a couple of hours free time to sort through the 1000+ photos that I shot at last weekend’s Notting Hill Carnival. Sunday was Children’s Day, with 100’s of cute kids in the parade that winds its way over the course of several hours through the streets of, well, Notting Hill. This year the organisers implemented a barrier system along the parade route, so virtually all of my photos were taken with a 70-200mm lens (112mm-320mm on the Canon EOS 10D). Sunday was a very bright day, with shutter speeds in excess of 1/1000th second at ISO 100.
Here are the first 6 photographs that I’m posting; expect to see lots more during the course of the next week :-)
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Notting Hill Carnival Children #1
| Notting Hill Carnival Children #2
| Notting Hill Carnival Children #3
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Notting Hill Carnival Children #4
| Notting Hill Carnival Children #5
| Notting Hill Carnival Children #6
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Brace yourselves for the news that all Olympus and Pentax film SLR owners have been waiting for (and plenty of other people too!). Both companies yesterday confirmed the prices for their new DSLRs, the Olympus E-1 and Pentax *ist D. So without any further ado, here are those prices…
Olympus E-1 Prices
- E-1 digital camera ?1,408.83 including VAT
[Including battery, charger, cable and strap]
- E-1 digital camera kit ?1,820.08 including VAT
[ Including 14-54mm F2.8-3.5 lens, battery, charger, cable and strap]
Lenses including VAT
- EZ-1454 Digital Lens 14-54mm F2.8-3.5 [including lens hood and case] ?495.85
- EM-P5020 Digital Lens ED 50mm F2 Macro [including lens hood and case] ?390.10
- EZ-5020 Digital Lens ED 50-200mm F2.8-3.5 [including lens hood and case] ?779.03
- ET-P3028 Digital Lens ED 300mm F2.8 [including lens hood and case] ?5,318.05
- EC-14 Tele Converter x 1.4 [for 14-54, 50-200 and 300mm] ?353.68
- EX-25 Extension Tube 25mm ?105.75
Pentax *ist D Prices
- Pentax *ist D camera body ?1400 including VAT
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 18-35mm f/4-5.6 FA AL J lens ?1529.99
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 FA AL J lens ?1499.99
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 20-35mm f/4 FA AL lens ?1899.99
- Pentax *ist D camera body with smc 24-90mm f/3.5-4.5 FA AL lens ?1799.99
Now in my humble opinion, these prices seem a little high when you consider that the Canon EOS 10D retails for around ?1150-300 body only. And lets not even mention the sub-?1000 EOS 300D! It will be very interesting to see how many E-1s and *ist Ds Olympus and Pentax sell at their recommend retail price; how soon will it be before prices become more competitive? This is less of a problem for the E-1, as it’s a whole new camera system aimed at the advanced amateur/professional photographer, but the Pentax *ist D is aimed at a similar market to the EOS 300D, and there’s currently a whopping ?500 price difference between the two cameras (body-only).
Canon have now officially announced the EOS 300D. There’s an official Canon Japan website up and running with all the details, including sample images:
Website: Canon Japan
Features
Here is a brief summary of the main features:
- Effective pixels: Approx. 6.30 megapixels (3088x2056)
- Aspect ratio: 3:2
- 35mm-equivalent focal length is equal to approx.1.6 times the marked focal length
- Image format: JPEG and RAW (12-bit)
- White Balance Settings: Auto, daylight, shade, cloudy, tungsten bulb, White fluorescent light, flash, custom
- Color temperature compensation: White balance bracketing: +/-3 stops in whole-stop increments
- Auto Focus points: 7
- Focusing modes: One-Shot AF, AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF)
- Metering system: TTL full aperture metering with 35-zone SPC(1) Evaluative metering (linkable to any AF point)(2) Partial metering (approx. 9% of viewfinder at center)(3) Centerweighted average metering (Set automatically in manual exposure mode)
- ISO 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600
- Shutter speeds: 1/4000 - 30 sec. (1/3-stop increments), bulb, X-sync at 1/200 sec
- Drive modes: Single, continuous, Self-timer/Remote control
- Continuous shooting speed: Approx. 2.5 fps (at 1/250 sec. or faster speeds)
- Max. burst during continuous shooting: 4 shots
- PictBridge-compatible
- Weight: 560 g / 19.7 oz (body only)
Lens
The 300D will ship as a body only option or with an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (29-88mm equivalent) zoom lens. Canon have also announced a 55-200mm (88-320mm equivalent) f/4-5.6 telephoto zoom.
Pricing
The Canon EOS 300D will retail for approximately Euro 1179 / ?899.99 for the body only, and Euro 1279 / ?999.99 complete with the 18-55mm (29-88mm equivalent) zoom lens. All prices include VAT.
Other websites that also have the news:
Website: DP-Now
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the 4.0 Megapixel PowerShot A80; the new flagship camera in the PowerShot A-series range.
Packed with features to put creativity back into the hands of the photographer, the PowerShot A80 brings together a newly designed 3x optical zoom with fast f/2.8 aperture, Vari-angle
LCD monitor and nine-point AiAF (Artificial intelligence Automatic Focus). A 32 MB CompactFlash card is included with the camera, enabling it to store between 14 and 337.
Canon’s engineers have built a camera with the features of the EISA European Digital Camera of the Year 2002 award winning PowerShot G2, but in a smaller, more stylish body and with all
the advantages of today’s technologies. Canon’s purpose-built, high performance DIGIC (DIGital Imaging Core) processor drives 2.4 fps continuous shooting, up to three minutes of movie clips with full sound and Canon’s patented iSAPS (intelligent Scene Analysis based on Photographic Space) technology. iSAPS acts like a photographer’s assistant, presetting the camera for faster focusing and more pleasing brightness and white balance settings. This is the first compact digital still camera from Canon to support PictBridge, the new industry standard for direct printing. It enables PC-free printing via direct camera-to-printer connection to any PictBridge compliant photo printer, regardless of brand.
“Our customers are really starting to benefit from Canon’s long term, large scale R&D investment into optics and digital technology,” explains Hiroshi Komatsuzaki, Head of Canon
Consumer Imaging Europe. “This camera sets new standards for image quality, photo flexibility and value, outperforming other models on the market.”
More pixels, larger CCD sensor
The 4.0 Megapixel CCD sensor is the same as that found in Canon’s multi award-winning Digital IXUS 400 and PowerShot S45 models. Each of the individual pixels is almost 50% larger than in the PowerShot A70 enabling the camera to provide superb image quality that is suited to photo prints up to A3 in size.
14 shooting modes
A choice of 14 shooting modes allows users to take complete control of any shooting situation, dictating precisely the type and level of automation required. Along with all of the fully
manual Program and Aperture/Shutter speed priority modes expected in an advanced digital, the PowerShot A80 includes two custom modes for storing preferred camera settings. Portrait
and Landscape modes minimise/maximise depth of field appropriately, and a Night Scene mode, providing slow sync speed for realistic shots, balances exposure to maintain both
background and foreground detail. Stitch Assist mode enables precise alignment of multiple images for panoramic and poster shots that can be merged with Canon’s PhotoStitch software.
Movie clips of up to three minutes are also possible with sound recording, playback and even editing functions all performed through the camera’s menu screen. Photo effects include vivid
colour, neutral and low sharpening, sepia and black and white.
New display, improved optics
When not in use, the PowerShot A80’s Vari-angle LCD monitor completely reverses and swivels into its housing in the rear of the camera body, meaning it is completely protected. The
screen can swing open a full 180o and be rotated to virtually any angle, allowing for shooting with the camera close to the floor or high in the air. A lateral reversal or ‘mirror image’
function is available for easy self-portraits.
Introduction of the Vari-angle LCD monitor means less room for the PowerShot A80’s lens than in previous PowerShot A-series models, and necessitated a fundamental redesign of the camera’s optics. This redesign has meant the camera maintains compact dimensions when not in use. Even though the CCD is larger than previous models Canon has managed to design an f/2.8 3x optical zoom (35mm equivalent: 38 ? 114mm) with a shorter retraction length. Two aspherical elements have been introduced to this new model in order to keep focus crisp throughout the image, right to the very edge of the picture, despite the reduction in size of the camera’s lens. Employing a rear-focus technique,moving only one element in the third group, the new lens delivers pin-sharp focus more quickly than previous models. The fast f/2.8 aperture is ideal for capturing images in low light conditions and for achieving narrow depth of field. A digital zoom extends the effective zoom range to 11x combined optical and digital.
High-end processing, high-end performance
The complex algorithms required to accurately process functions such as white balance and colour rendition have all been integrated into Canon’s unique high speed DIGIC processor.
This allows the PowerShot A80 to deliver stunning quality images with no compromise in camera responsiveness. The DIGIC processor is so fast that it reduces power consumption by
running only when needed. The PowerShot A80 will take up to 250* shots or provide up to 280 minutes playback from a single set of batteries. The camera takes every-day Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable AA batteries, providing greater flexibility for travel and other occasions.
Nine-point AiAF
The AiAF (Artificial intelligence Automatic Focus) has been extended to nine zones, the first time such a powerful system has been deployed on a PowerShot A-series camera. Focusing is now more precise regardless of subject position. An Intelligent Orientation Sensor allows the AF frame to be weighted differently for horizontal and vertical shooting, further increasing the accuracy of exposure, and saving time when managing photos on a computer or slideshows on TV. Standard single centre-point AF is selectable and can be combined with a magnified display of the centre zone to enable highly accurate manual focusing.
Waterproof case and lenses
For those with an interest in water sports or diving, an optional waterproof case ? submersible to 40m ? is available, complete with anti-fog double glass and flash light diffusion plate. To increase the range of the lens, a bayonet mount adapter fits easily over the lens to accommodate both a Wide Converter and Tele Converter, extending the possible zoom range
to 26.6?200mm (35mm film equivalent). A close-up lens for extreme macro shooting is also available.
Printing without PC
The PowerShot A80 can be connected via a USB cable directly to any PictBridge compliant photo printer, regardless of brand, for PC-free printing of lab-quality images. The camera is also backward compatible with Canon’s Direct Print and Bubble Jet Direct standards. When printing direct to a Canon printer, the camera automatically selects the optimum communication protocol to maximise print speed and quality.
1. 14 images in Large/Superfine, 337 images in Small/Normal mode under Canon standard testing method. File size depends on scene complexity.
* 250 shots with LCD monitor on, using AA alkaline battery under standard testing conditions.
Petteri’s Pontifications have posted an extensive user review of the Canon 200mm f/2.8 L lens in conjunction with the Canon 10D. There are plenty of sample images and Petteri also tries out the lens with a Tamron 1.4x convertor.
Website: Petteri’s Pontifications - Canon 200mm f/2.8 L Review
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Westminster Abbey #4
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| Westminster Abbey #6
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A few close-up shots of Westminster Abbey, all taken hand-held with the Canon 10D and Canon 70-200mm f/4 lens.
You can view some more Westminster Abbey photographs here: Westminster Abbey Album