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The Canon EOS R5 Mark II that was announced in July 2024 and the original Canon EOS R5 that was revealed in 2020 have similar key specifications, so which of these prosumer 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon EOS R5 Mark II versus the Canon EOS R5.
The EOS R1 is Canon's new professional full-frame mirrorless camera for sports and action photographers. The R1 features a new 24.2 megapixel back-illuminated stacked sensor, dual image processors, 40fps burst shooting, 6K/60p Raw and 4K/120p video recording, a 9.44M dot viewfinder with eye-control autofocusing, and an integrated vertical grip design. Check out our Canon R1 review so far, complete with full-size sample JPEG and RAW photos!
The 2023 Sony A9 III and one of its main rivals, the Canon EOS R3 from 2021, have similar specifications, so which full-frame sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Sony A9III versus the Canon R3.
The Nikon Z8 that was announced in May 2023 and the Canon EOS R5 that was revealed in July 2020 have similar key specifications, so which of these flagship 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Nikon Z8 versus the Canon EOS R5.
The new EOS R6 Mark II is Canon's fastest ever full-frame mirrorless camera, offering blistering 40fps burst shooting, 24.2 megapixel stills, 6K/60p video recording and 8-stops of IBIS.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II body is priced at £2,779.99 / €3,149.99 / $2,499.00 in the UK and Europe.
The brand new Canon EOS R6 Mark II and its predecessor the EOS R6 are virtually identical in appearance, so which full-frame mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Canon EOS R6 Mark II versus the EOS R6.
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 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.
The Sony Alpha 9 II and the brand new Canon EOS R3 that was unveiled today have similar key specifications, so which of these 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon R3 versus the Sony A9 II.
Canon have revealed their answer to the Sony Alpha 1 and the Nikon Z9 in the shape of the new EOS R3 full-frame mirrorless camera.
The Canon R3 will feature a brand new, Canon-developed 24.1 megapixel back illuminated stacked CMOS sensor, DIGIC X imaging processor, 6K/60p RAW video recording and oversampled 4K/120p video for up to six hours of regular video, 30fps burst shooting with full AF/AE tracking, and an integrated grip design with professional levels of weather-proofing.
The EOS R3 features Canon's most advanced autofocusing system ever, with Auto Focus (AF) tracking for motorsports including racing cars and motorbikes, focusing in extreme darkness at light levels down to -7EV, and an innovative new autofocus Eye Control Function.
There's also a 5.76 million dot electronic viewfinder with 120fps refresh rate, 5-axis IBIS providing up to 8-stops of protection against camera shake, and a fully articulating 4.1-million dot touch-screen display, and compatibility with Canon’s Mobile File Transfer smartphone app.
The Canon EOS R3 is priced at £5,879.99 / €6,689.99 / $5,999.00 and it will be available in November 2021.
The Sony Alpha 1 that went on sale in March 2021 and the brand new Canon EOS R3 that was unveiled today have similar key specifications, so which of these flagship 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon R3 versus the Sony A1.
The Canon EOS R3 that was announced today is a brand new flagship camera that sits above last years Canon EOS R5. Which of these 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon R3 versus the Canon R5.
The Canon EOS R3 that was launched today and the EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR look very similar, so which of these flagship 35mm full-frame sensor cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon R3 versus the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III.
The brand new Canon EOS R3 that was announced today and the Nikon Z9 that was revealed earlier in 2021 have similar key specifications, so which of these flagship 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Canon R3 versus the Nikon Z9.
Canon sell every type of camera that you can possibly imagine, from point-and-shoot compacts to mirrorless and DSLRs. Here is our definitive guide to the best Canon cameras that you can buy today.
The all-singing, all-dancing Sony A1, also known as the Sony Alpha 1, that was announced this week is billed as "one camera without compromise", the pinnacle of Sony's extensive full-frame camera range and potentially able to be the only camera that you'll ever need. We take a closer look in our detailed head-to-head comparison of the Sony A1 versus the A7R IV, A9 II and the A7S III to find out if it really can out-perform them all...
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...
Firmware version 1.1.0 for the Canon EOS R5 camera improves temperature detection and video recording time control, no longer disables the overheat control when using an external monitor/recorder, and improves the accuracy of remaining movie recording time display in situations where the camera is frequently turned on and off between recording consecutive, short videos.
The 1.1.0 EOS R5 firmware update is available to download from today, 27 August 2020. The EOS R6 camera will also benefit from these fixes in a future update.
In addition, Canon have announced plans to add extra features to the EOS R5 and the EOS-1D X Mark III via a series of future firmware updates for those models, including the addition of Canon Log 3 and 120fps Full HD recording for the EOS R5.
The EOS R6 is the best ever Canon mirrorless camera - there, we said it! If you want to find out why, carry on reading our in-depth Canon EOS R6 review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6 are two advanced full frame mirrorless camera additions to the revolutionary EOS R System, built on the future-proof RF Mount.
The pro-level EOS R5 delivers 45 megapixel stills at up to 20fps and is the first full frame mirrorless ever to record 8K RAW up to 29.97fps internally and 4K to 120p.
The EOS R6 is perfect for enthusiasts and professionals moving to mirrorless and looking for greater capabilities, capturing 20.1 megapixel stills at 20fps, 4K video up to 60p and Full HD at up to 120p.
We've spent a little hands-on time with the brand new Canon EOS R6 mirrorless camera, so ahead of our full review, check out our first impressions now...
Delkin have just released a 2Tb version of their CFexpress Type-B memory cards, which are used in the Canon 1D X Mark III, Nikon Z6 and Z7, and Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 and S1R cameras.
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.
Canon has again maintained the number one share of the global market for DSLR and Mirrorless cameras for the 17th consecutive year, running from 2003 to 2019.
From the debut of the breakthrough EOS 300D in September 2003, Canon has continued to launch a range of groundbreaking products. Canon released six interchangeable-lens camera models in 2019.
DxO PhotoLab 3.2 has made local adjustment mask management even more flexible, optimized its Repair Tool, and improved PhotoLibrary keyword support.
It also now supports the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, Nikon D780, Olympus E-M1 Mark III, Leica D-Lux 7 and Leica Q2 cameras.
DxO PhotoLab 3 users can download this update for free.
ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 is now available,adding user interface updates, some new features, and plenty of performance enhancements along with new cameras and lens support.
A 30-day free trial of ON1 Photo RAW 2020.1 is available for download now. If you previously ran the trial of ON1 Photo RAW 2020, the trial period is reset in version 2020.1, so you can also try this newest update free for another 30 days.
Canon have announced the development of the new EOS R5 flagship mirrorless camera, which offers cinematic-quality 8K movie recording using the full width of the sensor at up to 30p and support for Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, high-speed 20fps electronic / 12fps mechanical burst shooting, unparalleled in-body image stabilisation which works in combination with the lens stabilisation system, dual memory card slots, advanced animal AF recognising dogs, cats and birds, and support for the new image.canon cloud platform service.
The Canon EOS R5 will also have a fully articulating LCD screen and a thumb-operated AF joystick, rather than the divisive MFn bar used on the EOS R.
Richard Shepherd, Pro Product Marketing Senior Manager, said: “We’re confident that the EOS R5 will shake up the global mirrorless market and we’re excited to see the content photographers and filmmakers will be able to capture with this outstanding new device in their hands...The EOS R5 will become the new flagship Canon mirrorless camera, delivering exceptional image quality and video capture."
The official launch date and price of the exciting new Canon EOS R5 camera have yet to be announced.
A preview of the Canon R5 will be on display at the 2020 WPPI Show (February 25-27) in Las Vegas.
Reference exhibits for the EOS R5 and RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x will be on display in the Canon booth at the CP+ Camera and Photo Imaging Show 2020, to be held from February 27 to March 1 at the Pacifico Yokohama convention hall in Yokohama, Japan.
Pricing, specifications and a full list of features for the flagship Canon EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR camera have now been revealed.
The Canon 1D X Mark III will go on sale in February 2020 priced at £6,499.99 / €7,599.99 / $6,499.
Want to see exactly what the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR camera looks like in the flesh?
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR camera.
Canon's range of interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLR and mirrorless cameras) have maintained the No. 1 share of the global market for 16 consecutive years from 2003 to 2018.
The new Canon EOS R System, camera and RF lenses will be on display on the Canon stand exclusively at Photokina 2018.
The GITZO Adventury Backpacks are new premium bags have been designed to provide long-lasting comfort and safeguard all the equipment required by professional bird, wildlife, nature and landscape photographers.
Canon Inc has announced today that the Company’s interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLR and compact-system cameras) have maintained the No. 1 share of the global market for 15 consecutive years, from 2003 to 2017.
The Sony A7R III is a 42 megapixel camera that can shoot at 10fps with continuous auto-focusing. Yes, you read that right - 42 megapixels at 10fps. Find out why we think this is one of the best cameras available today by reading our full Sony A7R III review, complete with full-size sample images and videos...
Sony today announced the launch of a range of high performance CFast memory cards designed to meet the needs of professional photographers and videographers.
Canon today announced they have reached two major production milestones — a cumulative total of 90 million interchangeable-lens EOS cameras and 130 million EF-series interchangeable lenses. The EOS 5D Mark IV (pictured) was the 90 millionth EOS Series camera range to be produced, while an EF16-35mm f/2.8L III USM became the company’s 130 millionth interchangeable lens. Canon’s EOS system debuted alongside the EF series of interchangeable lenses in March 1987 as the world’s first fully-electronic mount system for film AF SLR cameras. Over the years, both product lines have continued to expand, gaining support among users ranging from first-time users to professionals. Production accelerated in the early 2000’s with the spread of digital SLR cameras. Canon’s interchangeable-lens digital cameras have maintained the No. 1 share of the global market for 14 consecutive years since 2003.
The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is a new flagship compact camera with an APS-C sized sensor. Replacing the G1 X Mark II, the 24 megapixel G1 X Mark III features a new, precision, 3x optical lens, an APS-C sensor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, 4-stop Image Stabilisation, Full HD 60p movies and Canon's premium DIGIC 7 processor.
The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III will be available from November 2017 for £1149/€1399/$1299.
Following the launch of Canon's Live for the Story advert and marketing campaign targeting a new ‘millennial’ audience last month – and for which there wasn’t a camera in sight – the photo giant is back to targeting its core users with two new DSLRs. Arriving in July are the enthusiast targeted EOS 6D Mark II, and the beginner friendly EOS 200D.
Photography Blog was at the London preview to bring you this report…
LPA Design has announced the new FlexTT6 Transceiver for Canon. With new under-the-hood technology, it is compatible with the Canon 5D Mark IV, 1D X Mark II, 80D, 77D, T7i and T6 cameras, along with Canon’s 600 EX II-RT and 430 EX III-RT flashes. “Owners of newer Canon cameras can now access the remarkable wireless TTL technology pioneered and patented by PocketWi zard,” comments Karen Marshall, CEO of LPA Design. “Our engineering team was able to conquer the challenges presented by faster camera sensors with this hardware solution.” The FlexTT6 is forward, backward and cross-compatible with the PocketWizard family of wireless radios. This includes compatibility with the FlexTT5 as a receiving radio, as well as the entire line of Plus radios, the MultiMAX, MiniTT1, AC3 ZoneController and Control TL receivers. The new FlexTT6 for Canon will be available at retail and on line in the US and Canada starting June 8, 2017.
The Sony A9 is a new 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera aimed at professional sports and action photographers. It boasts a 24.2 megapixel stacked CMOS sensor, expandable ISO range of 50-204800, 693 focal plane phase detection AF points, 20fps burst shooting, 5-axis in-body image stabilisation and 4K UHD video recording. We've spent some time getting to know the Sony A9, so check out our Hands-on Review of Sony's latest full-frame mirrorless camera...
Canon have announced that their interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLRs and CSCs) have maintained the No. 1 share of the global market for 14 consecutive years from 2003 to 2016. In 2003, Canon introduced their breakthrough EOS 300D DSLR camera, which was competitively priced and quickly captured the top share of the global market. Canon has continued to launch a range of interchangeable-lens cameras including the professional-model EOS-1D series and the EOS 5D series which paved the way for digital SLR video recording. During 2016, Canon released the EOS 80D for advanced amateur users, the EOS-1D X Mark II for professionals, and the 4K-enabled EOS 5D Mark IV (pictured) for video enthusiasts. Additionally, the company’s interchangeable-lens camera lineup was further expanded with the introduction of the high-end EOS M5 compact-system camera in November. This year, the company launched the Canon EOS M6, EOS 77D and EOS 800D models.
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.
The Sony A99 II is a new 42 megapixel full-frame interchangeable lens camera that uses the Sony A-mount. Can the A99 II compete with the likes of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Nikon D810? Read our in-depth Sony A99 II review to find out...
The KeyMission 170 is Nikon's first attempt at an action camera, featuring 4K video recording and a 170-degree lens. Can it compete with the similarly priced GoPro Hero 5? Find out by reading our Nikon KeyMission 170 review.
Manfrotto have annouced the new Pro Light 3N1 Camera Backpack. This three-in-one carrying solution comes in two versions that can be carried in 3 different ways and holds 3 types of gear by configuring its flexible internal dividers: photo, video or drone equipment. This multi-purpose backpack is designed for professional gear, i.e. models like the Canon 1Dx mark II or Nikon D5, Canon EOS C100/300 and the DJI Phantom 4 or 3DR Solo. Both versions feature a padded device protection pocket (for a 10” tablet in the Manfrotto Pro Light 3N1-26, and a 15” laptop in the 3N1-36). The Pro Light 3N1-26 and 3N1-36 backpacks are available from £149.95.
Photography Blog attended the recent UK press launch of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in central London. As one of the first people outside of Canon to actually get their hands on the new EOS 5D, here are my initial thoughts...
The new Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the most versatile EOS DSLR camera yet. Featuring a 30.4 megapixel CMOS sensor with wide exposure latitude, 7 frames per second (fps) high speed shooting, internal 4K movie recording and built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, the 5D Mark IV fuses speed and resolution with excellent low light capability and movie functionality. The EOS 5D Mark IV is also the first EOS camera to premiere the innovative Dual Pixel RAW file format, allowing photographers to fine-tune images in post-production by adjusting or correcting the point of sharpness, shifting the foreground bokeh or reducing image ghosting.
Canon have also added the new EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM and the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM to their extensive lineup of lenses.
Finally, Canon have announced a new firmware update for the EOS-1D X Mark II. Adding IPTC support and LCD colour tone as featured in the EOS 5D Mark IV, the update also improves the network and GPS functionality. The firmware will be available in September.
Pricing
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV - RRP £3,629 / €4899.99, available September 2016
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L II USM - RRP £1,129 / €1,449.99, available Q4 2016
Canon EF 16-35mm f2.8L III USM - RRP £2,349 / €2,999.99, available October 2016
Canon has been honoured with four product awards from the European Imaging and Sound Association. The EOS 80D (pictured) has been named the ‘European DSLR Camera 2016-2017’, while the EOS-1D X Mark II took the title of ‘European Professional DSLR Camera 2016-2017’ and the EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM and the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 received awards for ‘European Professional DSLR Lens 2016-2017’ and ‘European Photo Printer 2016-2017’ respectively. “At Canon, we understand photography doesn’t end with the press of a shutter, and are consistently striving to produce high-quality products that help novices and professionals alike to get the best from their photographs,” said Steve Marshall, Product Marketing Director, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon Europe. “Be it capture, print, store or share, every element matters, and we’re committed to ensuring Canon quality comes through at every step. Each of the awards we’ve received demonstrate our dedication and commitment to creating pioneering products and once again we’re extremely proud to have been recognised by the esteemed EISA panel.”
Canon’s team of over 70technicians and support staff will be in Brazil for nearly a month to support professional photographers and broadcasters covering the Summer Olympics. “Canon is proud to offer professional photographers and broadcasters high quality image-making solutions that are thoughtfully designed and versatile so that they can capture sharp, clear, detailed images and video,” said Elizabeth Pratt, director, Professional Client Development and Support, Canon U.S.A. “Knowing that iconic images will be captured, seen and shared by people around the world really drives Canon to provide professionals with not only high quality equipment but the customer support they need to help ensure they never miss a beat if anything happens to their equipment.”
Photography Blog attended yesterday's global launch of the Hasselblad X1D at the Gothenburg Museum of Art. As one of the first people outside of Hasselblad to actually get their hands on the X1D, here are my initial thoughts...
Alpine Labs have announced the upcoming launch of their "Pulse" camera release. Offering a pocket-sized solution to wireless control of DSLRs and CSCs, Pulse facilitates remote control from your mobile device using Bluetooth connectivity and a free mobile app. Unlike other remotes that utilise a camera’s trigger port, the USB connection allows Pulse to wirelessly control ISO, shutter speed, aperture, start / stop video, preview images on the screen of your device, and boasts an operational range of up to 100 ft. Expected to retail for $99, Pulse is currently available to preorder via the website below.
Sigma have announced that their 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art, 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art and 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM lenses are not fully compatible with the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II digital SLR camera. This partial incompatibility may cause exposure inaccuracies when “Evaluative Metering” or “Centre-weighted Average Metering” metering is employed. Sigma are currently working on a firmware fix for each lens. Release dates for the firmware updates will be announced later.
Phase One has released an update to Capture One Pro 9. Version 9.1.2, which is free to all Capture One Pro 9 license owners and Capture One Pro subscribers, adds support for the Canon EOS-1DX Mark II, EOS 1300D and EOS 80D, the Nikon D5 and the Panasonic G70 cameras; as well as the Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 8mm Fisheye 1:3.5 and M.Zuiko ED 8mm F1.8 Fisheye PRO, the Zeiss Loxia 2/35, Loxia 2/50, Loxia 2.8/21, Touit 2.8/12, Touit 1.8/32, Touit 2.8/50 and Batis 2.8/18, the Sony FE 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G OSS, the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f3.5-5.6, and the Rodenstock HR Digaron-SW 5.6/90 mm/Aerial and ALPA HR Alpagon 5.6/90mm lenses.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is a brand new flagship DSLR camera for professionals. Aimed at sports, press and nature photographers, the 20 megapixel 1DX Mark II builds on the success of the previous 1D X camera with a wealth of improvements, including 4K video recording, a new 20.2 megapixel sensor, 16fps continuous shooting and an expanded ISO range. Can the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II justify its £5,199.99 / $5,999.95 price-tag? Find out by reading our in-depth Canon EOS 1D X Mark II review...
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.
Ahead of our full review, here are sample images and videos taken with the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is a 35mm full-frame digital SLR camera with a 20.2 megapixel sensor that can shoot at 14 fps with AF / AE tracking.
Iridient Digital has released version 3.1 of Iridient Developer, a raw file conversion and photo processing application for Mac OS X. This update brings two new demosaicing algorithms for Bayer sensor cameras featuring improved fine detail rendering, lower noise and faster performance. It also includes a critical workaround for an issue introduced in the recent Mac OS X 10.11.4 update which affects the Shadows and Highlights (Neighborhood Adaptive) adjustments. A bug with loading raw files from some 2007 and earlier Canon DSLR models has also been fixed. Additionally, version 3.1 adds support for raw image files generated by the Canon EOS 80D, 1D X Mark II, 1300D and PowerShot G7 X Mark II, the Nikon D500 and D5, the SonyA6300. A68 and RX10 III, the Fujifilm X-Pro2, the Panasonic DMC-GX80 and DMC-GX85, the Leica M-D, the Blackmagic URSA Mini 4.6K, URSA Mini 4K, URSA 4.6K and URSA, the DJI FC550 (Xenmuse X5), FC350 (Inspire 1 and Phantom 4), FC300X (Phantom 3 Pro) and FC300S (Phantom 3 Advanced), the Samsung Galaxy S7, plus the HTC One A9 and One M9. The update is free for all users who have purchased a new or upgraded license after September 2014.
Canon has been awarded five accolades by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). The "Best Professional/High-Res DSLR" title went to the Canon EOS 5DS / 5DSR (pictured), while the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II has been named the year's "Best Photo/Video Professional Camera." The Canon IXUS 285 HS has won the "Easy Compact Camera" category, and the Canon PowerShot G5 X has received the "Best Expert Compact Camera" award. Last but not least, the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 has been selected as the world's best photo printer.
At the 2016 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Canon U.S.A. will showcase its full line of professional 4K and high-definition imaging equipment for video content creation and still photography at booth C4325. Additionally, there will be presentations and panel discussions throughout the show featuring Canon Explorers of Light, ASC members, and other emerging voices in imaging culture. A unique, immersive event, 8K Ride Experience showcases Canon’s innovation in current, emerging, and future technology by providing a simulated journey through a realistic, panoramic landscape powered by Canon 8K imaging technology. “The NAB show is Canon’s opportunity to show our valued customers and the industry our latest technology as well as the multitude of ways that Canon digital imaging solutions can help them achieve their vision,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A. “NAB is an amazing show for us to connect with professionals in all aspects of video creation, editing, and distribution.”
Canon is celebrating its 13th year at number one in the interchangeable-lens digital camera market. The success story began in 2003 with the introduction of the EOS 300D, the first affordable digital SLR camera that combined a competitive price with a compact, lightweight design and captured the top global market share upon release. The entire EOS series is supported by Canon’s extensive EF lens collection, with production surpassing the 110 million unit mark in June 2015, and currently comprises a total of 98 models.
Adobe has released Lightroom CC 2015.5 / Lightroom 6.5 plus Adobe Camera Raw 9.5. The updates add support for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, EOS 80D and EOS 1300D, the Nikon D500 and D5, the Olympus PEN-F and SH-3, the Panasonic DMC-CM10, GF8 and TZ100, the Samsung NX3300, the Sony Alpha A6300 and the Yuneec CGO4, and fix a number of bugs.
An image by Budapest-based Australian photojournalist Warren Richardson has been selected as the World Press Photo of the Year 2015. Taken at night on 28 August 2015, the photograph (above) shows migrants crossing the frontier from Serbia into Hungary across a temporary razor wire obstacle deployed before the completion of a taller and more robust border fence. "I was exhausted by the time I took the picture," Richardson says. "It was around three o’clock in the morning and you can’t use a flash while the police are trying to find these people, because I would just give them away. So I had to use the moonlight alone." The 2016 contest drew entries from around the world: 5,775 photographers from 128 countries submitted 82,951 images. The jury gave prizes in eight categories to 41 photographers from 21 countries including Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Portugal, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Turkey, and the USA.
Not content with launching 10 new photo products at CES, Vegas, at the start of the year, followed by the surprise announcement of the 1DX Mark II weeks later, photo stalwart Canon has launched a further five new products with May 2016 availability.
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.
Just in time for the 2016 Olympics in Brazil, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera is a brand new flagship DSLR camera. Outwardly the EOS-1D X Mark II looks very similar to its 4-year-old predecessor, but inside it boasts a lot of cutting-edge features. These include a brand new 20.2 megapixel full-frame sensor with an on-chip analog to digital convertor, 14fps continuous shooting with full auto-focus and metering and up to 170 RAW file buffer (16 fps in Live View mode) and an ISO range of 100-51,200, expandable to 50-409,600.
The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is a new flagship DSLR camera that's capable of shooting 14 frames per second with full AF/AE tracking and 16 fps in Live View mode. With the new CFast 2.0 card capability, the camera can deliver a burst of unlimited JPEGs or 170 RAW images in continuous high speed shooting. The EOS 1D X Mark II features a new 20.2 MP full frame CMOS sensor and new Al Servo AF III+, improved 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type AF points, new 360k RGB+IR metering sensor, Dual “DIGIC 6+” processors, 4K video capture up to 60p and an ISO range of 100 to 51200 (expandable from 50 up to 409600).
The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II will be available in the UK in May for £5199.99 body-only.
In the USA, the estimated retail price for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is $5999 (MSRP) for the body or $6299 for the Premium Kit which includes a 64 GB CFast memory card and card reader. The new camera is scheduled to begin shipping to authorized Canon USA dealers in April 2016
The Leica SL (Typ 601) is a new compact system camera for professionals, offering a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor, 4K video recording, 11fps burst shooting, a class-leading EVF, fast auto-focusing and a 3-inch touchscreen. Read our in-depth Leica SL (Typ 601) review now...
Canon, today introduced their first multi-purpose camera, the new ME20F-SH, which delivers an ISO sensitivity of over 4,000,000. This multi-purpose camera employs an enhanced version of the 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor for Full HD video use that was originally developed by Canon in 2013. It has a pixel pitch of 19μm, and each of its sensor photosites has a surface area of 361 μm2, which is much higher than the corresponding values of the Canon EOS-1D X (6.94 μm and 48.16 μm2, respectively). Furthermore, similar to Canon’s Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography cameras, the ME20F-SH includes Canon Log and Wide DR. The camera employs the same EF mount (Cinema Lock type) as Canon’s SLR cameras and Cinema EOS System-series of professional digital cameras, allowing users to make use of the company's extensive lineup of interchangeable lenses. The Canon ME20F-SH is expected to be available in December 2015 at a suggested retail price of $30,000.
The winners of the Camera Grand Prix 2015, hosted by the Camera Journal Press Club of Japan (CJPC), received their awards in Tokyo on Monday, 1 June 2015. The Camera Grand Prix, held since 1984, is a prestigious award whose winners are selected by a judging committee made up of the members of the CJPC, top editorial staff of the member publications, academic experts, technical writers, professional photographers and TIPA (Technical Image Press Association). The winning products for the Camera GP 2015 include theCanon EOS 7D Mark II ("Camera of the Year" and "Readers' Award"), theCanon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM lens ("Lens of the Year"), the Lytro Illum, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II and the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-CM1 ("Editors' Award").
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.
Canon is celebrating a 12th year as the global number one within the interchangeable-lens digital camera market. Canon’s run as market leader began in 2003 owing to the launch of the company’s first truly affordable dSLR, the EOS 300D. Since then, Canon has launched a host of interchangeable-lens cameras, including the EOS-1D series for professional users, and the EOS 5D series. More recently, Canon launched the EOS 7D Mark II (pictured), the EOS 5DS and 5DS R, which boasts the world’s highest pixel count among 35 mm full-frame sensor digital SLR cameras, the EOS M3 compact system camera plus the EOS 760D and EOS 750Do entry-level digital SLRs.
Born out of a successful Kickstarter campaign, the Lomo Instant is the most advanced instant camera on the planet. Using the widely available Fujifilm Instax Mini film, the Lomo Instant offers advanced features like manual aperture control, a built-in flash, and a bulb mode for long exposures. Read our Lomo Instant review now...
The Lytro Illum is a new light field camera aimed at professional photographers. Boldly billed as "a new medium capable of capturing visual experiences in their purest form", is it worth adding the Lytro Illum to your kitbag? Read our Lytro Illum review to find out...
The long-awaited Canon EOS 7D Mark II DSLR has finally arrived, boasting improvements to virtually every aspect of its popular predecessor, the 5-year-old 7D. Can an APS-C sensor DSLR camera still compete in the fast-changing photography market? Read our detailed Canon EOS 7D Mark II review to find out...
The new Kodak PixPro SP360 is an actioncam with a difference - it can capture a complete 360-degree view of the world. Is the Kodak PixPro SP360 worth considering alongside, or even instead of, the mighty GoPro? Read our in-depth Kodak PixPro SP360 review to find out...
The Canon Cine-Servo 50-1000mm T5.0-8.9 is a new broadcast lens offering a focal range of 50-1000mm and a built-in 1.5x extender. With the world’s longest focal length (75-1500mm with its built-in 1.5x extender) and highest (20x) magnification among Super 35mm zoom lenses, the Cine-Servo zoom lens offers cinematographers new possibilities for shooting scenes in HD, 2K and 4K on single-sensor cameras. The lens features a completely removable, updated servo drive unit that enables its use in broadcast-style shooting environments where typical cine lenses are usually impractical. The design has been developed to ensure high levels of ruggedness and reliability, combining the finest quality optics with a weatherproof and shockproof construction that makes it suitable for use in the most hostile conditions when on location. Facilitating cinema-style use, lens-barrel markings are clearly engraved in both feet and meters on both sides of the barrel, and focus indicators on the front side of the lens are marked on an inclined surface to make them easy to see from the back of the camera. Compatible with a wide range of cameras, the Canon Cine-Servo 50-1000mm T5.0-8.9 also supports communication between lens and camera and will be available in both EF-mount and PL-mount variants. The lens is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2015 for a suggested list price of $78,000.
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is the ultimate DSLR to capture action other cameras simply miss. Completely rebuilt and redesigned, the EOS 7D Mark II features 10fps burst shooting, a new 65-point cross-type AF system, Dual DIGIC 6 processors, new 20.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor with a native ISO 100-16,000 range (expandable to ISO 51,200), 150k pixel RGB+IR metering sensor and innovative flicker detection, 200,000-cycle shutter durability, pro-level movie features including live, uncompressed HDMI output and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, built-in GPS and a digital compass. The Canon EOS 7D Mark II will be available from November for £1,599.99 / €1,999.99 body-only. In the US the EOS 7D Mark II has an estimated retail price of $1,799.00 for the body only and $2,149.00 bundled with an EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens.
PocketWizard today released a new update to its ControlTL firmware for both Nikon and Canon versions of its MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 radios. Firmware version 3.700 for Nikon includes compatibility with the recently released D810 (pictured), D610, D4S and other Nikon cameras. Additionally, firmware version 6.700 for Canon now provides TTL compatibility with the Canon 1D X, 6D and T4i as well as other recently released Canon cameras.. Any current owner of the ControlTL system can easily install this version via USB and update for free using PocketWizard Utility version 1.54 or later.
The Canon IXUS 155 is a new stylish and affordable point-and-shoot compact camera. Stand-out features include a 20 megapixel sensor, 10x 24-240mm zoom lens, and a metal body, all for just £110. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 155 review now...
The new Samsung WB2200F super-zoom camera has a second hand grip and dual controls at the base of the camera for easier portrait shooting. The WB2200F also offers a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, 60x optical zoom (20-1200mm), integrated Wi-Fi and NFC, an i-Function control button and an eye-level electronic viewfinder. Read our Samsung WB2200F review to find out if this unique design hits the mark or not...
Canon has announced the upcoming launch of Digital Photo Professional (DPP) 4.0. The latest version of DPP - available for download at the end of this mont - has been updated with a number of new features and enhancements, These include faster, real-time adjustments, better integration with EOS Utility, movie playback support, improved raw file workflow, enhanced highlight recovery, and much more. A new colour adjustment palette allows hue, saturation and luminance adjustment for eight individual colour gamuts, enabling the user to adjust one specific colour in isolation without affecting the image as a whole. For those photographers with dual monitors, DPP now allows a secondary monitor to be used as the preview window on the primary display. Do note that DPP 4.0 will be compatible only with 64-bit operating systems.
The white-grey edition of the Canon EOS SL1 camera (originally launched in Japan as the EOS Kiss X7 White) will be available in the USA from the end of June. The white EOS Rebel SL1 camera is complemented by a matching white EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. "[N]ew to the U.S. market, the white EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR camera with its companion white lens, provides users with high-quality images in a small, compact body that is easy to bring along on all their summer adventures," says Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A. The Canon EOS Rebel SL1 and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens kit in white will retail for an estimated retail price of $749.99.
Canon's new Cine-Servo 17-120mm T2.95 zoom lens has been optimised for 4K resolution, and featres a removable Digital Drive Unit for shoulder mounted operation. Available in EF- and PL-mount versions, the Canon Cine-Servo 17-120mm T2.95 zoom lens sportsa three-group inner focus system to help minimize focus breathing and provide a stable angle of view, an 11-blade iris diaphragm, support for matte boxes, follow focus and other accessories.Compliance with industry-standard camera-to-lens communication protocols helps ensure its compatibility with multiple brands and models of video cameras. When used with a Canon EOS digital SLR, lens data - including aperture setting - are displayed in the camera's viewfinder, as well as recorded in the video file as metadata along with the model name of the lens and focal length setting. The Canon Cine-Servo 17-120mm T2.95 zoom lens is expected to be available in August 2014 for a suggested list price of $33,000.
At the 2014 NAB Show, Canon will showcase its full line of professional, high-definition imaging equipment for motion picture, television production, video content creation, and still photography at booth C4325. The company will be showing a 4K Live Broadcast demonstration, highlighting how well HD broadcast footage can be captured, digitally rendered and cropped for live-action broadcast coverage using Canon’s Cinema EOS equipment. In addition, Canon will host a series of unique stage presentations with renowned cinematographers, broadcast specialists, and filmmakers. These industry professionals will provide insight into the ever-changing field of optical and imaging technology and showcase their projects and works that were shot using Canon equipment. The 2014 NAB Show will be held from 5-10 April 2014 in the Las Vegas Convention Centre.
Ahead of our full review, here are 40 photos taken with the new Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DI VC USD lens, mounted on a Canon 5D Mk III body. The Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD is a telephoto zoom lens designed for full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras.
The FinePix F900EXR is the range-topping camera from Fujifilm, sporting a 20x lens with a versatile focal range of 25-500mm. The 16 megapixel F900 EXR also features fast phase-detection autofocusing, wireless image transfer, GPS support, full 1080p movies, a high-contrast 3 inch LCD screen and 8fps continuous shooting. Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix F900EXR review now...
The Delkin CF 1050X UDMA 7 Cinema is a specialised memory card that's designed to excel in high-end recording equipment, such as 4K cameras and medium-format digital backs. Capable of recording data at speeds up to 120 MB/s, the 1050X is the company's fastest card to date. This write speed is necessary to record 4K footage with cameras such as the Canon 1D C, which requires memory cards that are UDMA 7 and have a minimum write speed of 100 MB/s to avoid dropped frames. Additionally, with a read speed of 160 MB/s, the Delin CF 1050X allows for fast image transfers from card to computer, saving valuable time. The CF 1050X Cinema card is now available and comes in 32GB, 64GB and 128GB capacities for $149.95, $349.95 and $699.95, respectively
The Canon EOS-1D C has recently been independently tested in accordance with European Broadcasting Union standards for HD content acquisition and found to be the first DSLR ever to provide an image of high enough quality for use as a broadcast production tool. Results indicated that the EOS-1D C provides ‘exceptional’ HD resolution from a 4K source with ‘very low’ aliasing, and ‘good’ colour performance and motion portrayal. The test results also confirm that the EOS-1D C camera system and its imaging performance comply with the recommended specification for inclusion in HD Tier 1 for HD production.
Canon has unveiled a new EF Cinema prime lens. Featuring an eleven-bladed iris diaphragm, 300° focus rotation and a close-focus point of 30cm, the 4K-ready Canon EF CN-E35mm T1.5 L F is the sixth member of Canon’s line of compact, precision-matched EF-mount Cinema prime lenses, which also includes 14mm, 24mm, 50mm, 85mm and 135mm focal lengths. Ensuring consistency when shooting across a number of different Cinema prime lenses, the new 35mm lens provides colour reproduction that matches others in the range, as well as featuring the same form factor and uniform markings, making it easy to switch between lenses when on a shoot. The Canon CN-E35mm T1.5 L F Cinema prime lens is expected to be available in December 2013 for an estimated retail price of $5,200.
We spend a day shooting aeroplanes with Andy Rouse to test the flagship Canon EOS 1D X DSLR camera.
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.
Canon has released firmware updates for its EOS-1D Mark III, EOS-1D Mark IV (pictured) and EOS-1Ds Mark III digital SLR cameras. Each of these firmware upgrades incorporates the following improvements and fixes:
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark III Firmware Version 1.3.2
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Firmware Version 1.1.4
Website: Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Firmware Version 1.2.3
The Canon EOS 70D is a new digital SLR camera with a 20-megapixel sensor and 'Dual-Pixel CMOS AF.' The latter is a phase-detection autofocus technology on the camera's image sensor plane, which provides for quiet and fast focusing in Live View as well as when shooting video. When using the optical viewfinder, photographers can take advantage of the 70D's 19-point all cross-type AF system (including a high-precision f/2.8 dual cross-type AF centre point) and high-speed continuous shooting of up to 7fps. In addition, the Canon EOS 70D features a built-in wireless transmitter that offers users several connectivity options to easily share their images as well as control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO from their smartphone. The EOS 70D Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be available in September 2013 for an estimated retail price of $1199.00/ £1079.99 / €1399.99 for the body alone and $1349.00 / £1199.99 / €1599.99 kitted with an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM stabdard zoom or $1549.00 / £1399.99 / €1849.99 bundled with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens.
CamRanger is now compatible with a free Android application available in the Google Play store. CamRanger is a device that wirelessly controls Canon and Nikon digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras. The CamRanger has a wireless range of up to 150 feet for wireless tethering for photography and video monitoring and control. The CamRanger allows wireless tethering for over 30 different Canon and Nikon cameras. The included software includes live view, touch focusing, focus stacking, intervalometer, HDR, changing settings, record and focus during movie, client mode and much more.
LPA Design has announced a major update to its ControlTL formware for the PocketWizard MiniTT1, FlexTT5, PowerMC2 and PowerST4 devices and minor updates for the Plus III and MultiMAX radios. The new ControlTL firmware, available as a free download using the Pocket Wizard Utility, provides compatibility with several new Canon and Nikon cameras, greatly improves the performance of PocketWizard’s exclusive HyperSync feature and resolves bugs in previous versions. The new firmware for the Plus III resolves some minor bugs. The MultiMAX firmware, which has been available for a while in beta, adds two new features. Do note that PocketWizard Utility version 1.54 or newer is required before installing these updates.
Canon has released a firmware update for its EOS-1D Mark IV digital SLR camera. Version 1.1.3 incorporates the following improvement and fix:
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Support
Canon has issued a firmware update for its EOS-1D Mark III digital SLR camera. Version 1.3.1 enables focusing with the central AF sensor when the camera is used with the EF 200-400mm F4L USM Extender 1.4X lens and an Extender whose combined maximum aperture is f/8. You can download the firmware upgrade from the website below.
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark III Support
Kuuvik Capture is a feature-laden Canon EOS tethering application for Mac OS X. In addition to offering a typical set of remote shooting tools, Kuuvik Capture provides real-time parametric sharpening coupled with an adjustable focus peaking overlay as well as various compositional aids such as preset and adjustable guidelines and grids. Other highlights include the capability to display a histogram based on raw image data and, with select cameras, a split-view display of the camera’s live view image, allowing simultaneous evaluation of focus and superior control over depth of field. Kuuvik Capture also supports exposure bracketing, which can be combined with an intervalometer function to shoot user-defined image sequences for HDR images or time-lapse videos. The application is licensed on a per camera basis, with prices starting at $79.99. A fully functional 30-day trial version is available from the website below.
Canon has been awarded five honours by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). These include te Best Entry-Level DSLR (Canon EOS 100D), Best Expert DSLR (Canon EOS 6D), Best Video DSLR (Canon EOS 1D C, pictured) ,Best Professional DSLR Lens (Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM) and Best Expert Photo Printer (Canon Pixma Pro-10). “This is yet another strong showing from Canon in the TIPA Awards,” said Kieran Magee, Marketing Director, Professional Imaging, Canon Europe. “Such recognition from TIPA clearly demonstrates the level of quality and innovation that is present throughout our product range, from our consumer and amateur models to our professional line.”
Canon today announced that the company’s interchangeable-lens digital cameras (including DSLRs and CSCs) have consistently maintained the No. 1 share worldwide in terms of volume within the interchangeable-lens digital camera market for the past 10 years. In 2003, Canon introduced its breakthrough EOS 300D Digital Rebel, which set the stage for growth in the digital SLR camera market. Since that time, the company has launched a number of models targeting advanced-amateur users - including the EOS 5D series, which paved the way for serious digital SLR video recording, starting with the 5D Mark II. In 2012, Canon celebrated the 25th anniversary of the introduction of the EOS camera system and marked its 10th consecutive year as the market’s world leader. During the year, Canon launched the compact-system EOS M, aimed at expanding the company’s entry-level user base, along with the EOS 6D, the world’s smallest and lightest digital SLR camera equipped with a 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor. This year, Canon introduced the EOS 100D / Rebel SL1 (pictured), which is billed as the world’s smallest and lightest DSLR camera equipped with an APS-C-size sensor.
At the 2013 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Canon will showcase its full line of professional, high-definition imaging equipment for motion picture, television production, video content creation, and still photography at booths C3628 and C4325. The company will feature a live 4K Workflow Demonstration where visitors will have the opportunity to interact with industry-leading colourists and editors in a 4K DI (Digital Intermediate) suite. Canon will also showcase the new Cinema EOS C100 EF 24-105 Lens Kit, which is billed as a cost-effective solution to assist cinematographers, including single-person and small cinematography crews. The company’s technical representatives will be on-hand to provide consultations for cinema, video and DSLR users and CPS Gold and Platinum members can receive free onsite Clean & Checks for current professional equipment.
The Sony Xperia Z is a brand new smartphone that offers a lot of technologies from Sony's CyberShot camera range. The Xperia Z has a 13 megapixel sensor, 28mm fixed lens with fast f/2.2 aperture, 1080p video, sweep panoramas, a range of picture effects and 10fps burst shooting. Read our Sony Xperia Z review to find out if it really can replace a compact camera...
Canon U.S.A. will showcase its breadth of input to output imaging devices at the 2013 Wedding & Portrait Photographer International (WPPI) Convention. On display at the Canon booth (#401) is a diverse selection of EOS camera models, including the EOS-1D X, 5D Mark III, 6D and 7D; a broad range of Canon EF lenses; some of the imagePROGRAF and Pixma Pro series of printers as well as the Canon DreamLabo 5000 production inkjet printer. For wedding and event videographers, the XF305 and the compact, highly portable XF105 professional camcorders are on display as well. Both deliver Full HD video utilising Canon-designed and developed native 1920 x 1080 CMOS image sensors, professional XLR microphone inputs, and Canon’s proprietary MPEG-2 4:2:2 50Mbps XF codec. The WPPI 2013 trade show is being held in the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.
Canon have developed a new 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor specifically for video recording. The new Canon 35mm CMOS sensor enables the capture of Full HD video even in exceptionally low-light environments. The newly developed CMOS sensor features pixels measuring 19 microns square in size, which is more than 7.5-times the surface area of the pixels on the CMOS sensor incorporated in Canon’s top-of-the-line EOS-1D X DSLR.
Fotodiox has released the Aputure V-Control for Canon DSLR cameras, a handheld USB host device offering comprehensive image and follow-focus control. “Perfect for dramatic rack focus shots, and for correcting focus when the camera is out of reach on a dolly or a crane, V-Control is the only device of its kind that enables photographers to easily switch between still and video modes, offering full hands-on remote control of the camera’s aperture, shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation,” the company claims. Currently supported camera models include the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, 5D Mark III, 5D Mark II, 7D, 60D, 600D/T3i/Kiss X5, 550D/T2i/Kiss X4, 500D/T1i/Kiss X3 and the 1100D/T3/Kiss X50. The V-Controller is priced at $179.95 and is available for order now at fotodioxpro.com and other online retailers including Amazon.
Adobe has posted updates to Adobe Camera Raw (ACR), DNG Converter and Lightroom, including preliminary support for the Nikon D600 digital SLR camera (pictured), allowing you to play with the raw files provided in our Nikon D600 review. The updates also add support for 21 other cameras ranging from the Canon EOS 650D / Rebel T4i to the Sony DSC-RX100 and profiles for over 40 Canon, Carl Zeiss, Hasselblad, Leica, Nikon, Pentax, Sigma and Tamron lenses. The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.2 and Adobe Camera Raw 7.2 updates additionally incorporate a number of bug fixes.
Tenba has expanded its Roadie II video bag series with two new larger sizes. The new Roadie Video Backpack and Roadie Shoulder Bag will be about 20 percent larger than the bags that were launched earlier this year. Both bags are designed to fit the latest digital camera/video systems, including DSLRs from Canon (5D Mark III, EOS-1D X) and Nikon (D4, D800), and larger gear from RED (Epic, Scarlet), Canon (C100/C300/C500) and Sony (FS100/FS700), along with a laptop and a full assortment of accessories. The larger Roadie II Video Backpack and Shoulder Bag will be available in January 2013, with pricing to be announced.
Canon has expanded its Cinema EOS line-up with two new cameras, the Canon EOS C100 Digital Video Camera and the Canon EOS C500 4K Digital Cinema Camera. As promised back in April, the Canon EOS C500 (pictured) is Canon’s high-end professional 4K (4096x2160-pixel) cinema camera capable of originating uncompressed raw output for external recording to meet the demands of premium cinematic productions and other top-quality production markets. The C100 digital video camera is a compact, “entry-level” model delivering Full HD video using the AVCHD codec. The C500 will be available in both EF- and PL-mount versions; while the C100 will be offered in EF mount only. The Canon EOS C500 and C500 PL 4K Digital Cinema Cameras are scheduled to be available in October for an estimated list price of $30,000. The Canon EOS C100 Digital Video Camera is scheduled to be available in November 2012 for an estimated list price of $7,999.
Coinciding with the launch of the EOS C100 and C500 cameras, Canon has announced the addition of two new zoom lenses to its Cinema EOS system. Available in both EF- and PL-mount versions, the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S/SP wide-angle cinema zoom lens (pictured) and the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S/SP telephoto cinema zoom lens are engineered to deliver exceptional optical performance for the latest large-format single-sensor 4K and 2K digital cinematography cameras. The Canon CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S/SP wide-angle cinema zoom lens is expected to be available in November 2012 and the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S/SP telephoto cinema zoom lens is expected to be available in January 2013, both for an estimated list price of $24,500 each.
DZED Systems have announced Dragonframe 3.0.4 for Mac OS X, The program simplifies stop motion animation, motion graphics, and visual effects, with integrated USB control of Nikon and Canon DSLRs. The application supports lip-sync, automated lighting via DMX, 3D stereoscopic capture, and camera motion control. Previously called Dragon Stop Motion, Dragonframe 3.0.4 offers support for the latest DSLRs from Canon and Nikon, including the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, 1D X and 60Da as well as the Nikon D4, D800 and D800E. The update is free to Dragonframe 3 users.
Oloneo has released Oloneo PhotoEngine 1.1 and Oloneo HDRengine 1.1 for Windows. These updates support DNG v1.4 as well as 24 new cameras including the Nikon D800, D800E and D4, the Canon EOS-1D X, 5D Mark III and PowerShot G1 X, the Sony SLT A37 and SLT A57, as well as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 among others. The latest English/International 32-bit/64-bit versions of Oloneo PhotoEngine and Oloneo HDRengine for Windows are available through the Oloneo online store. A 20% Summer Special discount is available until 15th July.
LPA Design has announced a firmware release plan for the PocketWizard MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 radios to address compatibility with several new Nikon and Canon cameras and flashes, as well as the new Sekonic RT-32CTL module. The new Nikon and Canon gear is currently being reverse engineered & tested, with LPA Design being keen to stress that they do not receive any inside information from either companies. “In order to expedite the process, we will be releasing “rolling betas” which will then be rolled into production releases based on feedback during the beta phase,” LPA Design said in a statement. The first MiniTT1/FlexTT5 beta firmware release will be for the Sekonic module, with beta releases for the Nikon SB-910 flash, the Nikon D4/D800/D800E digital SLR cameras and the Canon 600EX-RT (pictured) and ST-E3-RT following in due course.
Canon has been awarded six separate honours by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). The award-winning Canon products include the EOS C300 (Best Professional Video Camera), the EOS 5D Mark III (Best Video DSLR), the not-yet-available EOS-1D X (Best Professional DSLR, pictured), the EF 8-15mm f4L USM Fisheye (Best Professional DSLR Lens), the Powershot G1 X (Best Expert Compact Camera) and the Pixma MG8250 (Best Multifunction Photo Printer).
The Canon EOS-1D C is a new digital SLR camera targeting the motion picture, television and high-resolution production industries. Supporting in-camera 4K (4,096 x 2,160) video recording with 4:2:2 colour sampling, the Canon EOS-1D C features an 18-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with a sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600. Stills shooters benefit from a 61-point auto focus system and continuous shooting speeds of up to 12/14fps. 4K video is recorded using 8-bit Motion JPEG compression at 24p, and Full HD (1920 x 1080) video capture is available at frame rates of 24, 25, 30, 50 and 60fps. The camera supports internal recording to CF cards at all resolutions up to and including 4K, offering enhanced mobility. Video can also be output to external recorders (excluding 4K video) via an integrated HDMI terminal using an uncompressed YCbCr 4:2:2 signal. The EOS-1D C will be available from October 2012, priced at £10,000 / €12,300 RRP including VAT In the US, the suggested retail price is $15,000.
The long-awaited Canon EOS 5D Mark III DSLR has finally arrived, boasting improvements to virtually every aspect of its popular predecessor, the breakthrough 5D Mark II. It's cost has also increased significantly, so does the new 5D Mark III offer enough to justify the £2999 / $3499 asking price? Read our detailed Canon EOS 5D Mark III review to find out.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a 35mm full-frame digital SLR camera with a 22-megapixel sensor, 61-point auto focus system, enhanced weather sealing and Full HD video with manual control. The EOS 5D Mark III’s movie mode has been refined to offer an enhanced range of high bit-rate video compression options, with intraframe (ALL-I) and interframe (IPB) methods both supported. Variable frame rates range from 24fps to 60fps, and the incorporation of SMPTE timecode support provides greater editing flexibility and easier integration into multi-camera shoots. The addition of a movie mode switch, recording button and headphone socket offers greater usability. Other highlights include a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 (expandable to ISO 102,400), a 63-zone metering system, stills shooting at up to 6fps, a new Creative Photo button, dual CF and SD memory card slots, a silent shooting mode and a continuous silent mode. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III will be available from end of March 2012, priced at £2999.99 / €3569.99 / $3499.95.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, looks back at the photographs that got away...
Canon is showcasing its EOS-1D X professional DSLR camera and Pixma Pro-1 photo inkjet printer at Photo Plus Expo in New York City. The Canon EOS-1D X features a 18-megapixel full-frame sensor, 61-point AF system, three DIGIC processors and continuous shooting speeds of up to 14 frames per second. The Pixma Pro-1 Professional Photo Inkjet printer boasts a newly developed 12-ink system, five of which are monochrome, along with a new FINE Print Head which helps deliver consistent results. In addition to these brand new products, Canon is also showcasing its complete line-up of photo related products, such as SLR camera bodies, lenses, PowerShot digital cameras, high definition camcorders and photo printers. Photo Plus Expo 2011 is being held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Centre in NYC. You can find Canon in Booth #402.
Phase One today released Version 1.1 of Media Pro. a professional digital visual assets managing application for Mac and Windows. This update fixes a number of bugs, features faster importing / media rendering and improved Capture One integration, and adds support for a number of camera raw formats when using the Capture One renderer. Media Pro is available now via download for $199 / €139 through Phase One’s Online Store.
The Canon EOS-1D X is a new professional digital SLR camera with a full-frame 18-megapixel sensor, a continuous shooting speed of 14 frames per second (12fps with AF) and a new 61-point AF system. Also featuring dual DIGIC 5+ image processors and 14-bit analogue-to-digital signal conversion, the Canon EOS-1D X offers a sensitivity range of ISO 100-51,200, expandable to ISO 204,800. The new 61-point AF module boasts Intelligent Tracking and Recognition, an expanded AF coverage area, superior focusing precision and low light sensitivity, and greater low-contrast subject detection capability compared to earlier EOS AF systems. The Canon EOS-1D X digital SLR camera is scheduled for March 2012 availability and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $6,800.
Canon has announced the achievement of two milestones: the company has recently manufactured its 50 millionth EOS-series SLR camera, and expects to produce the 70 millionth EF lens by the end of this month. The first-ever Canon EOS camera, the EOS 650, was launched in March 1987. By the 10th anniversary of the series in 1997, the number of EOS cameras sold had reached the 10 million mark. Production propelled to 20 million units in 2003, and by the 20th anniversary they had reached the 30 million mark, due to the continued popularity of the EOS system in the digital age. The 40 millionth EOS camera was manufactured in May 2010, while the current 50 million-unit production milestone was achieved in September 2011.
Canon has announced that an ultra-large-scale, ultra-high-sensitivity CMOS sensor developed by the company has enabled the video recording of meteors with an equivalent apparent magnitude of 10. Apparent magnitude is a measure of a celestial body’s brightness as seen by an observer on Earth. A star (or meteor) whose apparent magnitude is 10 is absolutely invisible to the naked eye. The sensor, with a chip size measuring 202 x 205 mm - the world’s largest surface area for a CMOS sensor - was installed in the Schmidt telescope at the University of Tokyo’s Kiso Observatory, Institute of Astronomy, School of Science. The photo above shows just how big this sensor is compared to a 35mm full-frame imager.
In Part 2 of our Going Pro series, some of the UK's leading photographers reveal how they became professional photographers.
Chainfire has released an app that allows you to remotely control your Canon EOS digital SLR camera via USB using a smartphone or tablet running Android 2.3.4 or later. Currently in Beta, the DSLR Controller app does not require you to hook the camera up to a computer - all you need is a compatible DSLR (the app has been tested with the Canon EOS 600D, 550D, 60D, 50D, 7D, 5D Mark II and 1D Mark IV models), a compatible smartphone* or tablet and the right USB cable. Features include the display of the Live View feed with histogram, grid overlay etc., LV autofocus by touch, and the ability to remotely change a large number of settings on your camera. As this is a Beta version, you should expect intermittent freeze-ups and error messages, the developers say. The DSLR Controller Beta app can be purchased and downloaded now from the Android Market.
*Note that apparently the only compatible smartphone is the Samsung Galaxy S2, with the 2.3.4 KG series firmware (or newer). The app should work with most Honeycomb-powered tablets though, Chainfire says.
Via Rob Galbraith
East Pleasant Pictures, a global collective specialising in multiple forms of moving-image media, has shot a series of commercials for a major cruise ship line using Canon EOS 5D Mark II and 1D Mark IV HDSLR cameras. Directed by Emmy-winning producer/director Xander Strohm, the commercials featured candid scenes of cruise ship passengers playing dodgeball and engaging in other recreational activities. Co-director Damien Drake explained: “We did a lot of documentary work for high-profile people and needed to be as inconspicuous as possible. We couldn’t use a crew, and we had to be our own technicians. The DSLR cameras stood out because they provide super high-quality HD and are very unobtrusive. In fact, a lot of the time people didn’t even realise that we were shooting video.” Both the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and 1D Mark IV digital SLR cameras provide full 1920x1080-pixel HD video recording at user-selectable frame rates of 30 (29.97), 24 (23.976), and 25 fps.
Canon has issued a firmware update for the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV digital SLR camera. Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following improvements and fixes:
1. Improves writing/reading speeds when using UDMA 7-compatible CF cards.
2.Fixes a phenomenon where the ability to shoot movies may be stopped under the following conditions:
• When using high-capacity (32 GB or greater) CF cards with little available space remaining and the user attempts to start shooting movies; or
• When the camera’s battery is removed and reinserted into the camera and the user immediately attempts to start shooting movies.
3. Corrects misspellings in the menu screens displayed in Arabic and Portuguese languages (applies to models outside of the the Japanese market only).
Website: Canon
At this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, a set of large-format printed images are incorporated into the external landscape to showcase the work of contemporary landscape photographer David Anthony Hall. Measuring up to 3m x 1.5m, the panoramic images have been produced on a Canon imagePROGRAF iPF9100 large format printer (pictured) by Canon UK’s distributor, Surrey-based Velmex Distribution. Hall comments: “By integrating my images into the concept garden, I’m hoping to challenge convention and stimulate a debate around the placement of art outdoors. I also want to show how it can brighten up difficult outdoor spaces, including courtyard gardens, by adding depth, colour and a focal point to these areas.”
Canon is exhibiting a wide range of products at the 2011 NAB Show, booth # C-4325. Included in the booth’s exhibit will be Canon’s new PL-mount lenses, a new portable 20x HD zoom with a built-in extender (pictured), the company’s robotic pan-tilt HD cameras, the new Canon XA10 professional camcorder, XF300-series and XF100-series professional camcorders, EOS DSLR cameras, the REALiS WUX4000 Installation LCOS projector, and large-format imagePROGRAF printers. Also on display during the show will be the new Technicolor CineStyle for the Canon 5D Mark II, a custom picture style which provides cinematographers with the image latitude for digital intermediate colour-grading and delivery.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to set a camera's white balance for landscapes.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to pack your camera bag.
Cinematographer Gale Tattersall has announced his next series of master class workshops on Canon HD DSLR cameras. The workshops will specifically focus on the high-definition (HD) video capabilities of the cameras, and their use for film production. HD DSLR Workshops also plan a series of five day field trips where students will get the chance to work closely with Gale shooting a documentary film.
The Sony A850 is the most "affordable" full-frame DSLR camera, featuring a 24.6 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen and an anti-shake function integrated into the body. Retailing for around $1999 / 1999 Euros / £1700, does the Sony A850 have what it takes to compete with its main rivals? Read our in-depth Sony A850 Review to find out...
Emmy and ASC-nominated Director of Photography Gale Tattersall has just announced his new series of master class workshops on Canon HDSLR cameras. Famous - among other things - for being the first DP to film an entire episode of network television with hand-held digital SLR cameras, Gale Tattersall has decided to share his knowledge and his techniques with filmmakers, students and budding artists in a series of live workshops focussed on the video capabilities of Canon’s latest DSLR cameras in particular, and digital film production in general. For more information, visit the website below.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, describes his perfect camera.
Canon EOS System - The Expanded Guide is a new book by freelance photographer and writer Andy Stansfield. The comprehensive, jargon-free, full-colour guidebook covers every digital SLR camera in the extensive EOS system, as well as the manufacturer’s Speedlite flashes and extensive range of EF and EF-S lenses. For the less experienced, technique sections explain camera sensors, Picture Style pre-sets, perspective control lenses, and more. The 272-page book, published by Ammonite Press. will be available in November priced at $19.95.
We checked out Schneider Kreuznach’s booth to see what their new tilt-shift lenses looked like in the flesh. The company had announced three perspective control lenses just prior to Photokina, and all three were on display at their stand. Two of them, the PC-TS Super-Angulon 50mm f/2.8 HM and the PC-TS Makro-Symmar 90mm f/4 HM, will be made in Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony mounts. The first was shown attached to a Nikon D3, whereas the second was mounted to a Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II. According to one salesman on the stand, the lenses will cost approximately €2,400+VAT and €2,300+VAT, respectively. We got our hands on the third PC-TS lens - the Schneider Kreuznach PC-TS Apo-Digitar 5.6 / 120 HM Aspheric made for Mamiya / Phase One system cameras - as well, which will sell for around €3,350+VAT.
Canon UK has released a time-lapse video shot during London Fashion Week with a Canon EOS 1D Mark IV. The sequence captures the set up of the British Fashion Council (BFC) show tent at London Fashion Week between 5pm, 5th September until 7pm, 8th September. To create the video, over 4000 frames were taken on a Canon EOS-1D Mark IV with a TS-E 24mm f/3.5L tilt-shift lens. Click through / scroll down to view the footage.
Canon has successfully developed the world’s largest CMOS image sensor, with a chip size measuring a whopping 202x205mm. This is approximately 40 times the size of Canon’s largest commercial CMOS sensors. Despite its size, which in the past would have meant slow signal readout speeds, the massive sensor meets the requirements of video capture. Thanks to its improved circuitry and exceptional light sensitivity, the new CMOS imager can be used to record video at 60 frames per second at a mere 0.3lux of illumination. Potential applications include the video recording of stars in the night sky and nocturnal animal behaviour.
Canon have developed a new 120 megapixel CMOS sensor that can shoot at 9.5fps and record Full HD movies. Nearly 7.5 times larger and offering a 2.4-fold improvement in resolution when compared with Canon’s highest-resolution commercial CMOS sensor of the same size, the 120 megapixel APS-H-size sensor has 13,280 x 9,184 pixels. The imaging area of the newly developed sensor measures approx. 29.2 x 20.2 mm. No word yet on exactly what Canon intend to use the new sensor for…
The Casio EX-FH25 is a super-zoom camera with a difference - its high-speed capabilities mean that it can take 30 still photos every second and even shoot 1,000fps video footage. The 10 megapixel EX-FH25 has a 20x lens with a focal range of 26-520mm, large 3 inch LCD screen and a wealth of automatic shooting modes to make your life easier. Read our comprehensive Casio EX-FH25 review to find out if this is the right high-zoom camera for you...
DxO Labs have launched DxO Optics Pro 6.2 for Windows and Mac, which supports Canon 550D and Sony Alpha DSLR-A450 in both its Standard and Elite editions, and the Canon 1D Mark IV and Nikon D3s in its Elite edition. In addition, 85 new DxO optical modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, supporting the following cameras: Canon 350D, 400D, 450D, 500D, 550D, 20D, 30D, 40D, 7D,1D Mark III, 1D Mark IV; Fuji S5 Pro; Nikon D3000, D40X, D50, D60, D90, D700, D3, D3s; Pentax K200D, K-7; and Sony A450. This brings the number of lens-camera combinations supported by DxO Optics Pro to 2000. The DxO Optics Pro 6.2 Standard edition costs £85, while the Elite edition is £179. These discounted prices are valid until 15 June 2010. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro 5 or 6 after 1 June 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.2.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to choose the best telephoto lenses for you.
Digital Foci has announced a major new firmware update for the Picture Porter 35 high-capacity portable photo manager. New features in version 1.2.1 include incremental photo backup, full screen preview and selection for convenient viewing, USB mode selection for secondary backup to external USB storage devices, and new professional DSLR extended camera support for RAW, EXIF data, IPTC and histograms. Picture Porter 35 features a 3.5-inch color LCD screen for easy viewing; built-in hard drive with 250GB and 500GB capacities, priced at $399 and $499, respectively; fast copy speeds of 1GB of data under 90 seconds; and a multi-format memory card reader for CF, MMC, SD/HC Card, miniSD, Memory Stick, MS PRO, MS Duo, and xD-Picture card.
DxO Labs have announced the addition of 70 new lens & camera combinations to its library of DxO Optics Modules for its DxO Optics Pro automatic image enhancement software. This new release brings the total number of available DxO Optics Modules to over 1900. DxO Optics Pro 6.1.2 for Windows is available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers priced at $169 / €149 / £99 (Standard Edition) and $299 / €299 / £199 (Elite Edition). DxO Optics Pro 6 for Mac is scheduled for release in May 2010 and will be available as a free upgrade to customers who have purchased version 5 or higher after June 1, 2009.
Website: 70 New DxO Optics Correction Modules
Capture One 5.1 is the latest version of Phase One’s raw conversion, workflow and image editing application. The basic version now features both a simplified workspace and ‘pro’ image-editing options; Capture One 5.1 PRO comes with new tools for advanced noise reduction and image editing efficiency. Version 5.1 is free to existing Capture One 5.x/5.x PRO owners.
Canon’s latest professional digital SLR camera, the EOS-1D Mark IV, was used by pro photographers to shoot Super Bowl XLIV. “Shooting at Super Bowl XLIV with the EOS-1D Mark IV was a night-and-day improvement compared to previous EOS models. It blew them all away. The 1D Mark IV exceeded my expectations quite a bit,” said Daniel Powers, staff photographer, Gannett Co., Inc. “The autofocus and tracking are razor sharp. After the NFL Wildcard Playoff game I was submitting 10 to 12 shot sequences all in crisp focus.” remarked Tom Hauck, of Tom Hauck Photography. The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV is available now for £4499 / €5499.
Bibble Pro 5.0.1 includes support for the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV and Olympus E-P2 cameras and 13 calibrated lenses. Version 5.0.1 also adds a one-click tool to set black / gray / white points, and includes Andrea, the Film Simulation plug-in. Version 5.0.1 is a free upgrade for all Bibble 5 customers.
HireACamera has announced the arrival of the new Canon EOS 1D Mark IV to their equipment portfolio. The 16-megapixel Canon EOS 1D Mark IV boasts a completely new 45-point autofocus system with AI Servo II AF mode. The camera’s “regular” ISO range stretches from ISO 100/21° to ISO 12,800/42°, but expansion settings push this all the way up to ISO 102,400/51°. The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV is also geared toward videographers, as it offers full manual exposure control and selectable frame rates when shooting 1080p HD video. Guy Thatcher, Managing Director of Hireacamera said, ”The new 1D Mark IV is a welcome addition to our stock and is already proving popular after its first outing at the SWPP Convention in January. We are sure this is going to be a great addition to the Canon family and are offering great hire prices on it at the moment so photographers can really try before they buy.” The Canon 1D Mark IV is available to hire now and can be booked by calling 01892 603440.
One of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to choose the best lenses for you.
Canon has issued firmware updates for its 1D Mark III and 1Ds Mark III digital SLR cameras. The new versions (1.3.0 and 1.2.0 respectively) add support for the WFT-E2 II wireless file transmitter, which was announced back in October and released earlier this month. To download the firmware updates, visit one of the websites below.
Website: Canon EOS 1D Mark III Firmware Update
Website: Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III Firmware Update
Want to get the best out of your RAW files? DxO may have the answer with the recent release of Optics Pro 6, a software app for processing RAW images. Jon Canfield takes an in-depth look in our DxO Optics Pro 6 review.
Our regular columnist, one of the UK's leading landscape and travel photographers, David Noton, explains how to take perfect long exposures.
Carl Zeiss today announced the Carl Zeiss Distagon T* 2/35 ZE manual-focus wide-angle lens for the Canon EF mount. The high-speed, moderate wide-angle Distagon T* 2/35 ZE fits all analogue and digital EOS cameras. On full-frame digital and film SLRs, the lens offers an angle of view of 53 degrees, whereas on DSLRs with APS-H sized sensor - such as the new Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, it works as a fast “normal” prime. With an initial aperture of 1:2, the Distagon T* 2/35 easily handles low light , making perfect pictures possible even under difficult lighting conditions. The relatively short angle of rotation of the precision focusing mechanism enables fast but precise focusing when required. The Distagon T* 2/35 ZE will be available from October 2009 at a recommended retail price of € 755.50 (excluding VAT).
The PowerShot G11 is the latest version of Canon's compact camera range for prosumers and professionals, offering a DSLR experience in a pocketable body. Interestingly Canon have reduced the number of megapixels on the G11 in a bid to improve image quality at higher ISO speeds, and they've responded to customer feedback by re-introducing the vari-angle LCD that was missing on the previous G10 model. With a price-tag of £569.00 / €659.00 / $499.99, the Canon PowerShot G11 is one of the most expensive digital compact cameras that money can buy - Gavin Stoker finds out if it's also one of the best...
Lexar have unveiled a new 600x Compact Flash card with a guaranteed minimum write speed of 90MB/s. Available in 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB capacities, the Lexar Professional 600x CF card works with the latest UDMA 6 enabled cameras, including the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 7D and the new 1D Mark IV, and the Nikon D3x, D3s and D300s.
Lexar’s 600x card also offers increased image transfer speeds from card-to-computer with minimum sustained read speeds of 533x (80MB/s), or faster when paired with the new Lexar Professional ExpressCard CompactFlash Reader. This is a portable, high-performance reader that requires no cables and connects directly to a PC or Mac laptop computer’s ExpressCard slot.
The Lexar Professional 600x CF cards will begin shipping on October 22nd in 8GB and 16GB capacities for £149 and £219 respectively. The 32Gb version will be available in November for £399. The Lexar Professional ExpressCard CompactFlash Reader will cost £29.99.
Canon have unveiled the 16-megapixel Canon EOS 1D Mark IV professional digital SLR camera boasting a completely new 45-point autofocus system. No less than 39 of these are cross-hatched AF sensors, sensitive to both horizontal and vertical detail. Moreover, the all-new AI Servo II AF mode gives still photographers the power and performance to track and focus a fast-moving subject at speeds up to 10 frames per second (fps). Canon is also making bold claims as to the high-ISO performance of the camera - the “regular” ISO range stretches from ISO 100/21° to ISO 12,800/42°, but expansion settings push this all the way up to ISO 102,400/51°. The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV is also geared toward videographers, as it offers full manual exposure control and selectable frame rates when shooting 1080p HD video. The EOS 1D Mark IV is equipped with a sixteen-megapixel “APS-H” sized sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors with approximately six times the processing power of DIGIC III for full 14-bit A/D conversion at 10 fps. Other new features include a large three-inch solid structure Clear View II LCD screen with 920,000 dot/VGA resolution and a wide 160-degree viewing angle. The new in-camera copyright information feature helps professionals secure control over images by setting copyright data directly into the camera and appending that information to each image file in the EXIF metadata. Additional features include a fluorine coating on the Low Pass Filter to further repel dust and enhance the EOS Integrated Cleaning System. The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers in late December, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $4,999. In the UK and the euro zone, the 1D Mark IV will be priced at £4499 / €5499 respectively, including VAT.
The Canon EOS 7D is a brand new 18 megapixel DSLR camera, complete with 8fps continuous shooting, high-res 3 inch LCD screen, Live View and Full HD movies. The Canon 7D also features a number of significant improvements to its auto-focusing, metering, viewfinder and flash systems, which all add up to make this one of the best-ever specified EOS cameras. Find out if the Canon EOS 7D can also take great pictures by reading the World's first expert review...
Tired of seeing the world in plain old two dimensions? Then Fujifilm have the answer - enter stage left the World's first 3D camera that doesn't require those dorky glasses, the Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W1. This remarkable device uses two lenses, two image sensors and a special LCD screen to create an utterly convincing stereoscopic 3D photograph. And the W1 also doubles up as a perfectly functional 2D point and shoot camera too. Mark Goldstein catches a glimpse of the future as he reviews the Fujifilm W1...
Based on the famous analogue M-series cameras, the Leica M8.2 is 10 megapixel digital rangefinder camera aimed firmly at the professional user. The £3900 / $5999 body-only M8.2 is a serious investment, and with Leica announcing its successor this week, the 18 megapixel full-frame M9, you could argue that its days are numbered. We find out if the M8.2 is still worth a look...
DxO Labs have announced the immediate availability of version 5.3.5 of its DxO Optics Pro software, which adds support to the new Sony A850. Another feature is better noise control for images taken at high ISO with the Sony Alpha 900. Plus, there are 85 new DxO Optics Modules that cover fisheye lenses, wide-angles, and prime lenses as well as many zooms such as the 15x Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Macro - a lens type for which DxO Optic Pro’s optical corrections are particularly efficient along its entire focal range, the company says. DxO Optics Pro v5.3.5 and upgrades are available immediately for Mac and Windows platforms from the DxO Labs e store (www.dxo.com) and from quality resellers. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since August 1, 2007 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 5.3.5.
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.
Forget the new car, holiday or house extension - a mere £5499.99 / €7728.00 / $7999.95 will buy you the shiny new Nikon D3x. This 24.6 megapixel camera is the highest-resolution DSLR on the market, bettering the Sony A900 and Canon EOS 5D Mark II. As well as it's headline-grabbing megapixel count, the D3x also boasts a 51-point auto-focus system, 920,000-dot 3-inch LCD screen, 50-6400 ISO range and 16-bit image processing. Gavin Stoker discovers if the Nikon D3x really is the best ever DSLR...
Our regular columnist, one of the UK’s leading landscape and travel photographers, <a href="http://www.davidnoton.com/">David Noton</a>, photographs one view four times at dawn and dusk, with vastly different results.
Canon USA have issued a service notice about the autofocusing accuracy of the EOS-1D Mark III and EOS-1Ds Mark III DSLR cameras. If an AF point other than the center AF point is used, focus may become soft. Canon USA are providing free AF accuracy checks and adjustments to affected products.
Canon has released a new firmware update, v1.1.4, for the 1Ds Mark III DSLR camera. This firmware update (Version 1.1.4) incorporates the following fixes.
1. Corrects a phenomenon in which a displayed image becomes pitch-black if it is zoomed in on during Live View shooting.
2. Corrects a phenomenon in which “busy” may continue to appear on the camera if the USB cable is disconnected during USB communication.
3. Changes the error indications that are displayed on the camera. The error indications are further clarified to make the causes of errors easier to identify, and so that adequate support can be provided to our customers.
Canon has released a new firmware update, version 1.2.5, for the EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera. This firmware update (Version 1.2.5) incorporates the following fixes.
1. Corrects a phenomenon in which a displayed image becomes pitch-black if it is zoomed in on during Live View shooting.
2. Corrects a phenomenon in which “busy” may continue to appear on the camera if the USB cable is disconnected during USB communication.
3. Changes the error indications that are displayed on the camera. The error indications are further clarified to make the causes of errors easier to identify, and so that adequate support can be provided to our customers.
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark III Version 1.2.5 Firmware Update
DxO Optics Pro 5.3.2 adds support for the Canon 5D Mark II and the Canon G10, along with 32 new DxO Optics correction modules. In addition, this new version includes various improvements, including installation of the plug-in version for Adobe Photoshop CS4. DxO Optics Pro v5.3.2 and upgrades are available immediately for Mac and Windows platforms.
DxO Optics Pro v5.3 is a major new release of the automatic image quality enhancement solution for digital SLR and compact camera users. DxO Optics Pro 5.3 adds more RAW support, 64-bit Windows compatibility, support for Adobe Lightroom 2, and new DxO Optics Correction Modules. “The noise removal technology for RAW images featured in DxO Optics Pro 5.3 opens up exciting options to photographers providing them with up to a 2-stop gain at photo capture, as if digital grain never really existed,” says Cyrille de La Chesnais, director of the photography business at DxO Labs. “This translates into a dramatic increase in capture flexibility.”
The Leica S2 is a completely new digital SLR camera system, offering a 37 megapixel, 30x45mm sensor that’s 56% larger than full size 35mm. Designed from scratch in consultation with professional photographers, the Leica S2 does not use a conventional medium format or 35mm platform. The S2’ bespoke Kodak CCD sensor has enabled the Leica designers to produce the smallest camera in its class, sitting between the Canon EOS 5D and 1Ds Mk III DSLRs in size. The Leica “MAESTRO” image processor developed with Fujitsu specifically for the LEICA S2, allows the camera´s lenses, firmware and sensor to function at their optimum, producing market leading processing time and the highest level of picture quality with minimal energy output. Nine new lenses will be developed for the new Leica S-system.
Update 1: We have a gallery of 20 photos of the Leica S2 and assorted lenses, including an exclusive side-by-side comparison of Leica’s new DSLR with a Canon EOS 5D, and we’ve also posted our initial impressions of using the S2.
Update 2: Find out why the S2 is not called the S1, which parts of the S2 have been developed exclusively by Leica, and if the R10 will ever see the light of day - just click the continue link below…
SanDisk have unveiled a 16GB Extreme IV high-performance memory card at Photokina, and also have boosted the speed of the entire Extreme IV range up to 45 megabytes per second. SanDisk Extreme IV CF cards have undergone internal testing with many leading manufacturers’ cameras and DSLRs, such as Canon’s EOS series, Nikon’s D300 and D3 cameras, the Sony Alpha A700, and the Olympus E500 and E3 cameras. Depending on the camera used, the increased performance of the SanDisk Extreme IV memory card line may help reduce the delay between shots, enabling photographers to take more photos overall. The 16GB SanDisk Extreme IV CompactFlash memory card is available now for $399.99 in the United States and €281 in Europe.
DxO Optics Pro v5.1 is now available for both Windows and Mac platforms. Version 5.1 offers considerable improvements in stability and extra features, including a more flexible Pace Interlok protection that doesn’t require installation of an Interlok driver. DxO Optics 5.1 also now supports 3 new cameras and 35 new DxO Modules, including the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/450D and Nikon D60. In addition, to celebrate DxO Optics Pro’s 4th birthday, and the arrival of version 5.1, all customers purchasing an upgrade to DxO Optics Pro v5.1 and activating it before 1st July 2008 will receive DxO Film Pack for free.
Canon has launched the first of two new television commercials to support the Canon EOS Rebel and Canon PowerShot digital camera lines. “Journey,” uses a unique technology that blends individual digital still photographs shot with the Canon EOS-1D Mark III into a “picture-trail” motion commercial. “In this spot, the journey is the destination. Edited together, the shots made for a compelling story. But each single Canon photograph is also a piece of art in itself. You can freeze this ad at any given moment and find a photo that you’d probably like to blow up, frame and put on your wall.” said Grey New York’s chief creative officer Tor Myhren. The latest PowerShot commercial, set to air in early June, will continue to feature Maria Sharapova and her charismatic puppy, “Dolce.”
Canon has released a new firmware update, v1.1.2, for the 1Ds Mark III DSLR camera. This firmware update incorporates the following improvements:
1. Includes the following new features that were frequently requested by customers to the new firmware.
- Direct selection of AF points by the Multi-controller is added to C.Fn III-9.
- Alternate access to Exposure compensation is added to C.Fn IV-3.
2. Improves the stability of AF accuracy in AI servo AF when shooting extremely low-contrast subjects.
Canon has released a new firmware update, version 1.2.3, for the EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera. This firmware update incorporates the following improvements:
1. Includes the following new features that were frequently requested by customers to the new firmware.
- Direct selection of AF points by the Multi-controller is added to C.Fn III-9.
- Alternate access to Exposure compensation is added to C.Fn IV-3.
- With the camera’s External Speedlite control menu, Flash function settings can be used to set the Wireless setting and Zoom.
2. Improves the stability of AF accuracy in AI servo AF when shooting extremely low-contrast subjects.
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark III Version 1.2.3 Firmware Update
A beta version of DxO Optics Pro v5 for the Apple Macintosh platform is now available. The free public beta, available in English only, will run for several weeks. “Although both the Mac and PC versions are identical in terms of functionalities, Mac users will be especially pleased with the consistency of DxO Optics Pro v5 in the Mac environment,” says Cyrille de La Chesnais, Sales & Marketing Director of the Photography Business at DxO Labs. “For instance, the palette and tab icons follow Mac OS X toolbar guidelines and the select tab reproduces the three viewing modes that Mac users are accustomed to using.” DxO Optics Pro v5 is available in Standard and Elite editions for $169 and $299 respectively.
Photo-enhancing software LightZone 3.5 now includes an extensive video learning center, additional camera compatibility and revised pricing of up to $50 off. “Our goal with LightZone is to show the digital public that there is an approachable way to enhance all their photos without lengthy books, manuals and luck. Transforming your photos is a very visual experience, so we have employed a visual approach with our new video learning center,” said Fabio Riccardi, chief executive officer, Light Crafts. LightZone 3.5 is available for download now. The full version is now priced at $199.95, and the Basic version is $129.95.
After the much-publicized problems with the Canon EOS-1D Mark III DSLR’s auto-focus system, Canon USA are now claiming that the camera has “performed better in our tests than all previous EOS camera models.”
“After the AF mirror Adjustment, including the updated firmware version 1.1.3, the EOS-1D Mark III AF function performed better in our tests than all previous EOS camera models. Canon strives at all times to continuously improve our products in order to provide our customers with the best performance and value. We are aware that some customers have raised questions about the performance of the EOS-1D Mark III AF system under certain conditions. We will continue to investigate, and look for opportunities to improve, the performance of the AF system to ensure the satisfaction of all of our customers.”
Website: Canon USA - Updated Service Notice: EOS-1D Mark III: AF Mirror Adjustment Problem
The Mac OS X 10.5.2 update released yesterday has added RAW file support for the following cameras:
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III, Canon Powershot G9, Hasselblad CF-22, Hasselblad CF-39, Leaf Aptus 75s, Nikon D3, Nikon D300, Sony Alpha DSLR-A700
Website: Mac OS X 10.5.2 Update
Delkin have unveiled a range of new products at PMA, including the improved SensorScope, Snug-it Pro camera skins, and 16Gb SDHC Pro card. The SensorScope sensor cleaning system has undergone several improvements and will be shipping in early March, 2008. Snug-it Pro camera skins provide complete protection for digital SLR cameras, will begin shipping in late March, and will be available for the Canon Digital Rebel Xti, Canon 40D, and Nikon D40. The Delkin SDHC Pro 16GB Class 6 cards offer maximum storage and speed.
Production of Canon EOS SLR cameras has just passed the 30 million mark, with 10 million of those digital bodies. The achievement coincides with Canon’s 70th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of the launch of its EOS line of SLR cameras. In March of 1987, Canon’s 50th anniversary, the company introduced the EOS 650 AF SLR camera (pictured), the first model of the EOS series. One for the fact-fans out there - EOS is the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn.
Bibble Pro 4.9.9 adds support for the Nikon D300, Nikon D3, Canon 1Ds Mark 3, Canon G9, Olympus E-3 and Sony A700 cameras. This release also adds tethered shooting support for all Nikon SLR’s on Intel Macs. Bibble 4 is available in both “Pro” ($129.95) and “Lite” ($69.95) versions for Windows, Macintosh (PPC/Intel as a Universal Binary) and Linux. The Bibble 4.9.9 update is free for all current Bibble 4 customers, and new customers will also receive a free upgrade to Bibble 5, when available.
Rob Galbraith has published an in-depth analysis of the auto-focus problems that have affected the Canon EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera since it was first launched.
“At long last, our analysis of Canon’s sub-mirror fix and firmware v1.1.3 for the EOS-1D Mark III is live. Does the hardware change and new firmware solve the camera’s AI Servo autofocus problems? Does the EOS-1D Mark III now match or exceed the bright light autofocus performance of its predecessor, the EOS-1D Mark II N? Here, in 8500 words and over 650 full-resolution photos, is our answer”
Website: Rob Galbraith - Analysing the EOS-1D Mark III sub-mirror fix and firmware v1.1.3
The Delkin Devices 16GB UDMA CompactFlash Pro memory card offers fast read/write speeds-up to 305x (45MB/sec sustained transfer speed capability). Photographers using UDMA-enabled cameras such as the Canon 1Ds Mark III, Nikon D300 and Nikon D3X can maximize the full benefits of their camera investment. “Delkin’s complete UDMA solution for professional photographers is unmatched by any other manufacturer. Besides our CompactFlash PRO cards, we offer UDMA enabled ExpressCard and CardBus adapters, and a FireWire reader for the fastest download speeds to the computer” said Eric Richter, Delkin’s Marketing Manager. The price of the Delkin Devices 16GB UDMA CompactFlash Pro card is $399.99.
DSLR Remote Pro Multi-Camera and PSRemote Multi-Camera are new software applications from Breeze Systems that allow you to control up to 25 Canon cameras remotely from a single computer. DSLR Remote Pro Multi-Camera supports the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III, 1D Mark III, 40D, 30D and 400D/Digital Rebel XTi. All the cameras can be fired from the PC, in which case there is a delay of approximately 1/6 sec between each camera firing, or they can be fired simultaneously by wiring together the cameras’ remote release connections. DSLR Remote Pro Multi-Camera costs US $95 x the number of cameras supported. PSRemote Multi-Camera allows multiple Canon PowerShot SX100 IS, S5 IS, A640, G7 or G9 cameras to be controlled from a single PC. PSRemote Multi-Camera costs $49 x the number of cameras supported.
DSLR Remote Pro v1.6 adds a new photobooth shooting mode and support for the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III. The popular remote live view mode has been enhanced to allow the image to be inverted or reflected horizontally or vertically. A new photobooth mode aimed at event photography takes a sequence of pictures and then automatically sends them to a printer for printing. DSLR Remote Pro v1.6 costs US $95.
Canon has released a new firmware update, version 1.1.3, for the EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera. This firmware update incorporates the following improvements and fixes.
1. Increases transmission speed when using high-speed SD cards.
2. Fixes a phenomenon involving not being able to release the shutter.
3. Improves AF tracking in specific conditions.
4. Corrects errors in the Spanish and Korean menu screens.
Website: Canon EOS-1D Mark III Version 1.1.3 Firmware Update
DxO Labs today announced the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v5 for Windows. Originally slated for release at the end of October, DxO Optics Pro 5 was delayed for a month “following an extended testing and quality assurance phase”. DxO Optics Pro v5 is available in Standard and Elite versions at pricing unchanged from the previous version ($169 and $299 respectively).
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 1.3 and Camera Raw 4.3 updates are now available. Lightroom 1.3 adds support for Leopard Mac OS X 10.5 and includes a technology preview of the Lightroom Export SDK. Both Lightroom 1.3 and Camera Raw 4.3 include raw file support for seven additional digital cameras including the Nikon D3, Nikon D300 and Canon 1Ds Mark III.
Canon has introduced two new papers, Polished Rag and High Resolution Coated Bond, for their imagePROGRAF large format printers. At 300gsm/15mil, the Polished Rag is a thick media providing the look and feel of traditional fiber-based photo paper. Polished Rag is available in 8.5 x11,inches, 13 x19 inches and 17 x22 inches cut sheet as well as rolls in widths of 17, 24, 44, and 50 inches. At 120gsm, the new High Resolution Coated Bond Paper is ideal for general office large format printing.
The 8GB SanDisk Extreme III SDHC memory card can store more than 4,000 high-resolution pictures or up to 16 hours of MPEG 4 video. The card has a read/write speed of 20 megabytes per second and is packaged with the SanDisk MicroMate USB 2.0 Reader. Expected to ship within the next 30 days to U.S. retailers, the 8GB SanDisk Extreme III SDHC will costs $179.99.
DSLR Remote Pro v1.5 introduces Remote Live View with Autofocus for the Canon EOS 40D and 1D Mark III cameras. DSLR Remote Pro can now autofocus the 40D and 1D Mark III from a PC using a contrast detection algorithm on the large remote live view display. This release is a free upgrade for all registered users who purchased a license within the last year. DSLR Remote Pro 1.5 costs $95 and is available now.
ACDSee Pro 2 features next-generation workflow management and RAW processing functionality. The upgrade was developed with input from more than 2,500 photographers worldwide. “The ability to work directly with our customers has allowed us to develop a product release that will bring unprecedented efficiency to the photographic community, freeing them to focus on what they do best—producing quality images.” said Mark Franklin, executive vice president of ACD Systems. ACDSee Pro 2 is available now for $129.99. Current ACDSee customers are eligible for a 30-percent customer discount.
BreezeBrowser Pro v1.7.2 adds full support for the new Canon EOS 40D camera. BreezeBrowser Pro v1.7.2 is a free upgrade for all registered users who purchased a license within the last year. Also released is DSLR Remote Pro v1.5 beta 3, with full support for controlling the Canon EOS 40D and Canon EOS-1D Mark III from a PC.
Digital Outback Photo have started a diary review of the Canon EOS 40D digital SLR camera, which offers a 10.1 megapixel sensor, 6.5 fps continuous shooting and 3 inch LCD screen.
“Same comment as for the Canon 1D Mark III: Histogram shows now all 3 channels and the luminance histogram at the same time. So far so good. Unfortunately it is hard to see whether the data clip because the background of the histogram is dark gray and the rest on the LCD is black. It would be much easier to check the histogram if there would be a clear visible line around the histogram area.”
Phase One have released a Beta version of its Capture One 4 RAW workflow software. New features in Capture One 4 include High Dynamic Range, Variants, Web contact sheet and Multiple up viewing. The first look at Capture One 4 is available now at no cost until November 1st.
The Canon 1Ds Mark III is a 21.1 megapixel full-frame digital SLR camera with 5fps continuous shooting and 45 AF points. Other standout features of the 1Ds Mark III include Canon’s Live View shooting mode, 3 inch LCD screen and Integrated Cleaning System. “The EOS-1Ds Mark III Digital SLR camera is a prime example of the EOS philosophy and Canon’s ongoing commitment to providing photo professionals with the tools they need to create the finest quality images,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. Retailing for $7,999, the Canon 1Ds Mark III will be available in November. The Canon 1Ds Mark III will be available from October 2007 in the UK, priced at £5999.99 / €8699.99 RRP inc VAT.
Canon have also announced the EF 14mm f/2.8L II USM lens. Measuring 3.7 inches in length and weighing in at under 23 ounces, the EF 14mm f/2.8L II USM provides a 114-degree diagonal angle of view and replaces the original EF 14mm f/2.8L USM lens.
The much rumoured Canon 40D digital SLR camera is finally officially here, with a 10.1 megapixel sensor, 6.5 fps continuous shooting and 3 inch LCD screen. The 40D also features an upgraded dust and weather resistant construction, ISO 3200 mode and DIGIC III processor. “This newest member of Canon’s Digital SLR family takes mid-range Digital SLRs to exciting new heights with enhanced resolution and image quality, faster shooting and processing speeds and better overall functionality than ever before,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. The Canon 40D will be available in September in a body-only configuration for $1,299. A kit version with the EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens will cost $1,499. The Canon 40D will be available from September 2007 in the UK priced at body only £899.99 RRP inc. VAT / €1329.99 RRP inc. VAT, or plus the EF-S 17-85 IS USM lens £1199.99 RRP inc. VAT / €1779.99 RRP inc. VAT.
Canon have also announced the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens. This adds image stabilization which provides up to a full four stops of correction, and replaces the original 18-55mm lens. The EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS will cost $199.99 in October.
No less than Amazon.com have leaked the US specifications, price and availability of the much-rumoured Canon 40D and Canon 1Ds Mark III DSLR cameras. Available on September 10th for $1,299, the Canon EOS 40D has a 10 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD screen, 6.5 fps continuous shooting, new sRAW mode, 35-zone metering system and integrated Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit. New accessories for the 40D include a revised BG-E2N battery grip and WFT-E3A wireless transmitter. A new lens - the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM - has also been listed by Amazon, available November 15th for $199.99.
Meanwhile the professional Canon 1Ds Mark III will cost $7,999 and be available on December 10th. It’s headline features are a 21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 3 inch LCD display with Live View, 5 fps at shutter speeds 1/500 second or faster, sRAW mode, 45-point AF and integrated Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit. Also mentioned on the Amazon page is a new Canon EF 14mm f2.8L II USM Lens, providing a a 114-degree diagonal angle of view on the Canon 1Ds Mark III.
Of course, none of this is official yet, even though it comes from one of the world’s biggest online retailers, but you probably won’t have to wait too long for Canon to make their announcement…
Website: Amazon.com - Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III
Website: Amazon.com - Canon EOS 40D
Website: Amazon.com - Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM SLR Lens
The-Digital-Picture have reviewed the new Canon EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera.
“The Canon EOS 1D Mark III AI Servo AF accuracy problem: When using a telephoto lens on a bright, hot sunny day with an at-least-slightly backlit subject, AI Servo focus accuracy drops to very low. I used a Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens most extensively during testing but also noticed the problem with a Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens when shooting soccer under the same conditions. If you must have higher hit rates in these conditions, you should probably keep a Canon EOS 1D Mark II N in your kit until Canon works out this issue.”
Jessops is demonstrating the new Canon EOS 1D Mark III DSLR and offering free tips from Canon experts at four special events for enthusiasts and professionals. There’s also a half-price SanDisk 4GB CompactFlash card with every EOS 1D Mark III ordered on the day. The Jessops Demo Days take place in London and Birmingham on Thursday 19th July and Edinburgh and Cardiff on Thursday 16th August.
Canon have released EOS Utility 2.0.2 for Windows and Mac OS X, EOS Utility is software exclusively for EOS Digital cameras that combines all the functions involving communication with the camera. This software accommodates features such as importing and viewing images on the computer by connecting the camera to the computer, using the remote shooting function, and controlling the camera from the computer to specify the camera settings. The update adds the following new features:
Windows Version
1-1. Support added for Auto Power OFF (camera) during Remote Live View shooting
The Auto Power Off function can now be used during Remote Live View shooting with EOS-1D Mark III.
1-2. Corrected “From PC” in Time Setting on the Camera
It’s corrected that the “From PC” in “Date/Time” of the camera setting does not function properly when a computer is working in daylight saving time.
1-3. The setting value of Picture Style files will be applied to camera.
When a picture style file is set to the camera, the parameters included in the file (contrast/color tone/color depth/sharpness) will be applied to the camera.
DxO Optics 4.5 now supports the the Canon EOS 1D Mark III and Nikon D40x Digital SLR camera bodies,plus the Tokina AT-X 107 AF DX Fish-Eye AF 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5 lens. DxO Optics Pro software improves the image quality of Digital SLR cameras and advanced digicams. “We are very excited to add support in DxO Optics Pro for this exciting lens by Tokina. Properly supporting full-frame fisheye lenses is a challenge in itself and doing so for the first time with this Tokina fisheye zoom lens was a ground-breaking achievement by our technical team.” commented Luc Marin, vice president of the DxO Labs Photography Business unit. DxO Optics Pro v4.5 is available immediately.
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 1.1 is now available as a free upgrade for existing users. New features in Lightroom 1.1 include support for Windows Vista, improved noise reduction and sharpening and support for 13 new digital camera RAW files. Photoshop Lightroom costs US $299.
The Idruna Remote Editing System (IRES) allows an editor to see what a photographer is shooting, in real time, even if the photographer is on the other side of the world. IRES works even over mobile phone networks or satellite modems, as only thumbnails are transmitted over the web. Idruna’s Remote Editing System is available now priced at $199 for the Windows version, or from $389 as part of Pocket Phojo 5.0 for Windows Mobile.
Adobe have released Camera Raw 4.1 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the following cameras has been added in this update:
Canon EOS-1D Mark III, Fuji FinePix S5 Pro, Nikon D40x, Olympus E-410, Olympus SP-550 UZ, Sigma SD14, Phase One H 20, Phase One H 25, Phase One P 20, Phase One P 21, Phase One P 25, Phase One P 30, Phase One P 45
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 4.1 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 4.1 (MAC)
Crestock are offering you the chance to win a Canon 1Ds Mark II camera in their 2007 photo contest. With a total length of nine weeks, the contest is split into three rounds, with prizes for each one. Entry is free - you just have to register on the Crestock site.
The Think Tank Photo Digital Holster is a new camera bag designed for just one digital SLR body and a lens. Available in 5 different sizes, the Digital Holster bag features an expandable “Pop Down” bottom section which allows it to hold lenses of two different vertical heights with the hood in position or with it reversed. The Think Tank Photo Digital Holster is priced from $45 to $79.
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.
Imaging Resource have a preview of the new Canon EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera.
“As it was, going out to shoot our usual Gallery shots left me feeling a little frustrated. The 1D Mark III is far more sophisticated than any of my snapshots of inanimate objects could convey, and my limited time wouldn’t allow me to get truly creative and explore the vast possibilities with a camera of this caliber. But the Galleries aren’t intended to show any artistic ability; they’re taken to give you a sample shot of something textured and colorful with the camera in the daylight. Let’s just say I was wishing I had a week in the Sierras, four days with models in a studio, three days with the same models on a beach, 36 hours photographing bears in Alaska, and a weekend at the racetrack. Just me and the Mark III.”
I attended the Canon Spring Launch press event at The Bridge, SE1 in central London earlier today and tried out the new EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera, plus the 16-35mm lens, 580 EX II flashgun, Powershot and IXUS cameras, and PIXMA printers. Hearing the EOS-1D Mark III rattling away at 10 frames per second for over 10 seconds was quite something! This new DSLR is 16% lighter than its predecessor, has a self-cleaning sensor based on the EOS 400D, and uses a 3rd generation CMOS sensor and two DIGIC III processors. Apparently the shutter is 50% more durable than the previous model - Canon have tested it to no less than 300,000 cycles. And the camera’s 19 auto-focus sensors and 26 focus assist points offer a 1 stop improvement in low-light. Canon demoed a EOS-1D Mark III saving files to a compact flash card, SD card and external hard drive all at the same time! Price will be £3049.99 in the UK and $3999 US. Click on the link below to see exclusive shots of all the new products that have been announced today (well, not quite all of them, I didn’t spend too much time with the new fax machines). Leave a comment if you have any questions and I’ll do my best to answer them…
PMA 2007: The Canon EOS-1D Mark III DSLR camera is the latest addition to the EOS-1D series, offering 10.1 megapixels and 10fps shooting for up to 110 JPEG or 30 RAW images. The Canon 1D Mark III has not one but two DIGIC III processors, 14-bit image processing, 3.0 inch LCD with Live View mode (eat your heart out Olympus!), ISO 6400, 19 point auto-focusing and the EOS Integrated Cleaning System. The new Canon EOS-1D Mark III will cost £3049.99 in the UK, and I hear that it will cost $3999 in the US and be available in April.
Canon Japan has some Canon EOS-1D Mark III sample photos available to download.
PMA 2007: Canon have announced several new accessories that have been optimised for the new EOS-1D Mark III DSLR. These are the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens, Canon Speedlite 580EX II flashgun, Canon WFT-E2 Wireless File Transmitter and Canon OSK-E3 Original Data Security Kit. The optics on the EF 16 35mm f/2.8L II USM have been redesigned to deliver higher contrast levels and improved resolving power. Availability TBC on all products listed below.
- 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.
Canon is celebrating 20 years of the EOS system. Standing for Electro Optical System, EOS began with the EOS 650 back in 1987 (what a decade!). To help celebrate, Canon UK has launched 21 new promotional DSLR kits (13 new photo kits and eight new lens kits). Examples of the photo kits include the EOS 400D IS Double Zoom Kit, which contains the EF-S 17-85mm IS U lens and the EF 70-300mm IS U lens; the EOS 30D Macro + Ring Flash Kit, which contains the EF 100mm Macro lens and the MR-14EX Ring Flash; and the EOS 5D Photo + Speedlite Kit, containing the EF 50mm 1.4 lens and the 220EX Speedlite.
Photographer Gerd Ludwig offers some tips about digital photography on Kingston Technology’s ‘Icons of Photography’ website. Ludwig comments “Shooting inside the Chernobyl reactor was probably the most challenging photographic situation I’ve ever encountered. It was dark, loud, and claustrophobic; the clock was ticking as our group rushed through dimly lit tunnels strewn with wires, pieces of shredded metal and other debris as I struggled not to trip; I was dodging the spray of sparks from the drillers in highly contaminated concrete dust; and I knew that I had less than 15 minutes to capture impacting images of an environment that few have ever seen, and that I might never access again.” Read our in-depth Gerd Ludwig interview to find out more.
Adobe have released Camera Raw 3.7 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the Nikon D40 and Pentax K10D DSLR cameras has been added in this update.
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.7 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.7 (MAC)
Breeze Systems Press Release
New in DSLR Remote Pro v1.3: Canon EOS 400D/Digital Rebel XTi and Multiple Camera Support
20th October, 2006: Breeze Systems today released DSLR Remote Pro v1.3. Photographers can now use Breeze Systems highly regarded software to control the new Canon EOS 400D/Digital Rebel XTi as well as the 30D, 5D, 350D/Digital Rebel XT, 1D series cameras and most other EOS Digital SLR cameras. DSLR Remote Pro v1.3 adds support for tethered shooting with the new Canon EOS 400D/Digital Rebel XTi, enhances automatic exposure bracketing and multiple cameras to be controlled from a single PC.
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.
Breeze Systems Press Release
New in DSLR Remote Pro v1.2: Canon EOS 30D Support
19th May, 2006: Breeze Systems today released DSLR Remote Pro v1.2. Photographers can now use Breeze Systems’ highly regarded software to control Canon’s new EOS 30D as well as Canon EOS 5D, 350D/Rebel XT, 20D, EOS-1D Mark II and EOS-1Ds Mark II, 10D, 300D/Rebel, EOS-1D and EOS-1Ds models.
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:
1. Nikon D70 Front-Focused Images
2. The Big Picture
3. A Question! A Question! My Kingdom For A Question!
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. 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.
Extensis Press Release
Free update includes added RAW camera and MS Office support for digital asset management needs.
PORTLAND, Ore. — April, 12th, 2006 — Extensis, a division of Celartem Inc., today released two free updates to Portfolio 8 – the leading Digital Asset Management (DAM) solution for creative professionals. These updates include two file format support filters, which add support for Microsoft Office allowing users to catalog, find and view files from Microsoft Word and Excel on the Windows platform. Additionally, Extensis has added support for 22 new camera Raw formats on both Mac and Windows versions of Portfolio. Registered owners of Portfolio 8 are eligible to receive the free upgrades immediately through the Extensis website at http://www.extensis.com/portfolio. “These free updates demonstrate Extensis’ commitment to supporting the file formats that matter most to our customers,” said Dan Harlacher, Extensis Portfolio product manager. “We added MS Office support and updated the Portfolio Raw Filter so that our customers can more effectively utilize Portfolio in their daily workflow from cataloging to finding to viewing the files and images that are most critical in their day-to-day business.”
Canon have released a new firmware version, 1.0.4, for the Canon EOS-1D Mark II digital SLR camera.
This firmware update (version 1.0.4) includes the following improvements:
1. Fixes the phenomenon where the images are monochrome.
2. Fixes the phenomenon where the images are overexposed when using Focusing Screen Ec-S.
This firmware update applies to cameras with firmware version up to 1.0.3 installed. If your camera’s firmware is already version 1.0.4, it is not necessary to perform this update.
PMA 2006: The Canon EOS 30D is announced today. Improvements over the 20D include a 2.5 inch LCD, spot metering, Picture Style pre-sets and a few other minor tweaks. The Canon 30D will be available from March 2006, priced at body only £1099.99 / €1599.99, plus EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 (non USM) lens £1179.99 / €1749.99.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon upgrades best selling EOS 20D
Canon is pleased to announce the new EOS 30D, replacing the award winning EOS 20D. Retaining the 5fps, 8.2 Megapixel performance of its predecessor, the upgraded camera enjoys a larger, wider viewing angle 2.5” LCD, extended 100,000 shutter cycle durability, spot metering, and a variety of refinements designed to enhance the photographic experience. Targeted at an increasingly discerning population of serious creative photographers, the Canon 30D replaces a camera that already claims a significant share of the Western Europe D-SLR market, which grew by 120% in the past 12 months. “A rapidly expanding population of serious and semi-commercial creative photographers is helping drive EOS growth,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “As well as putting many high-end pro features into their hands, the EOS 30D becomes a launching pad into the world’s most comprehensive interchangeable lens system and huge range of flash units and accessories.”
Digital Foci Press Release
Digital Photo Album with Large 3.6” LCD Securely Saves Photos on the Road in its 40GB & 80GB Portable Hard Drives - Compatible to Print Photos without a Computer - Records Voice & Video
February 7, 2006 – Orlando, Florida – Digital Foci announced today that it will be introducing at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Conference Picture Porter Elite portable digital photo album with 40GB and 80GB hard drives and a memory card reader. Featuring a large 3.6” LCD for easy viewing, Picture Porter Elite lets you instantly and securely save and view digital photos and video on its hard drive wherever you go, so you can keep snapping away and stop worrying about limited memory card space on your digital camera.
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.
Bryan Carnathan over at The-Digital-Picture has added a new section to his Canon lens reviews, showing lens vignetting on a full-frame body (Canon 1Ds Mark II) and allowing comparisons with other lenses in each of the 3 currently available views. Bryan’s database has 35 lenses and 1500 sample images in it., and he will be adding many more lenses to the database over the next few weeks.
Adobe have officially released Camera Raw 3.3 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the following cameras has been added in this update.
Canon EOS 5D, Canon EOS 1D Mark II N, Canon EOS 20Da
Kodak EasyShare P850, Kodak EasyShare P880
Fujifilm FinePix E900, Fujifilm FinePix S5200/5600, Fujifilm FinePix S9000/9500
Mamiya ZD
Nikon D200
Olympus E-500, Olympus SP-310, Olympus SP-350, Olympus SP-500UZ
Pentax *ist DL, Pentax *ist DS2
Sony DSC-R1
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 (Mac)
ACD Systems Press Release
The wait is over for the fastest end-to-end photo management solution for professional photographers
VICTORIA, British Columbia – Jan. 11, 2006 – ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX: ASA), today began shipping ACDSee™ Pro Photo Manager, the highly anticipated advanced version of its award-winning ACDSee photo management software. Developed for professional photographers, ACDSee Pro lets photographers view, process, edit, catalog, publish and archive their photographs with unparalleled speed and ease of use. Led by fast RAW file viewing and batch processing, ACDSee Pro’s feature set is designed to increase productivity with its wealth of professional photo management and customizable workflow tools.
Canon have released a new firmware version, 1.0.2, for the Canon EOS-1D Mark II digital SLR camera.
This firmware update (version 1.0.2) includes the following improvements:
1. Fixes a file-numbering error that occurred during Bulb shooting.
2. Improves the brightness of the LCD monitor.
3. Fixes mistakes in the Russian-language MENU displays.
This firmware update applies to cameras with firmware version up to 1.0.0 installed. If your camera’s firmware is already version 1.0.2, it is not necessary to perform this update.
Microsoft Press Release
Microsoft RAW Image Thumbnailer and Viewer for Windows XP Version 1.0 (Build 50)
The Microsoft RAW Image Thumbnailer and Viewer provides the ability to view, organize, and print photos captured in RAW image formats from supported Canon and Nikon digital cameras.
The updated version of the software adds support for the Canon EOS 5D, Nikon D50, and other recent camera models from Canon and Nikon (see list of new supported camera models below). In addition, a new Save As button has been added to the toolbar, allowing users to conveniently save either an embedded preview or processed RAW image to disk as a JPEG or TIFF file.
Phase One Press Release
Capture One 3.7.3 has been released on December 12, 2005.
Amongst the highlights in this release are:
Support for new cameras
The DB and PRO versions of Capture One will include support for the brand new Phase One Digital Backs P 30 and P 45, featuring 31 and 39 mega pixels respectively.
The PRO and LE versions of Capture One will now also support the cameras listed below:
• Canon EOS 5D
• Canon EOS-1D Mark II N
• Konica Minolta Alpha / Dynax / Maxxum 5D
• Olympus E-500 EVOLT
• Leica Digital Module R for R8 and R9 cameras
• Beta support for Nikon D200 pre-production models
Pixmantec Press Release
Pixmantec Partners With ETCETERA Consulting To Provide Sophisticated Color Profiles For Canon And Nikon Digital SLRs
Copenhagen, November 15, 2005: Danish digital imaging specialists Pixmantec ApS are pleased to announce the immediate release of RawShooter | Color Engine. A plug?in for both existing and forthcoming RawShooter RAW workflow applications, RawShooter |Color Engine provides discerning photographers with an excellent alternative to the standard RawShooter profiles. Designed in cooperation with color expert Magne Nilsen of ETCETERA Consulting, RawShooter | Color Engine seamlessly integrates into all RawShooter applications. Built using an advanced architecture, RawShooter | Color Engine delivers a level of sophistication that has yet to be seen in DSLR profile management and thus has the potential or exciting enhancements to come.
DIWA member Steves Digicams have published their review of the 12.8 megapixel Canon EOS 5D digital SLR.
“The bottom line is always image quality, and the 5D does not disappoint with its combination of 12.8-megapixel resolution, full-frame image sensor and low image noise. The 5D is capable of producing images rivalling the quality of the professional 1DS Mark II. Most pro’s will opt to shoot in RAW mode, using software tools to adjust for the desired degree of sharpness, saturation and contrast. But the 5D also produces high-quality finished JPEG images courtesy of its Picture Styles. While image noise is noticeable in midtone and shadow areas at sensitivities over ISO 800, ISO 1600 and 3200 produce very usable images.”
Website: Steves Digicams - Canon EOS 5D Review
A new Beta version of Adobe Camera Raw has been released by Adobe for both Windows and MAC platforms.
Support for the following cameras has been added in this update.
• Canon EOS 5D
• Canon EOS 1D Mark II N
• Olympus E-500
• Olympus SP-310
• Olympus SP-350
• Olympus SP-500UZ
• Pentax *ist DL
• Pentax *ist DS2
• Sony DSC-R1
Website: Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera RAW 3.3 (MAC)
Pixmantec Press Release
ANNOUNCING THE ULTIMATE RAW WORKFLOW TOOL - $59.00 OCTOBER ONLY!
Copenhagen, October 28th 2005: Danish digital imaging software specialists Pixmantec announce the release of the latest addition to their Photographers’ Toolbox applications for the camera RAW format, RawShooter | premium 2006. Building on the incredible success of the FREE RawShooter | essentials 2005 product (now with several hundred thousand copies installed worldwide), RawShooter | premium 2006 provides unsurpassed RAW workflow functionality and professional image quality at an unbeatable competitive price. In addition to a state of the art feature set, RawShooter | premium 2006 adds camera RAW support for several new DSLRs including the Canon EOS 5D and Canon EOS 1D II N.
DIWA member LetsGoDigital have published their review of the 12.8 megapixel Canon EOS 5D digital SLR.
“Impressive is the Canon EOS 5D certainly where image quality is concerned in combination with the new EF 24-105 f/4 L IS USM lens. The sharpness is outstandingly high and the colour reproduction especially accurate. Picture Style lets you adjust it to your own taste. What’s more is the fact that the new Canon EOS 5D excels on noise and dynamic range. Moreover, ISO 3200 can be used perfectly for high quality prints and in light as well as dark areas the detail remains clearly visible. This is really impressive; you have to see it to believe it. The Canon 5D and the EOS-1D Mark II N are similar in this case. For the competitors it will be a hard nut to crack!”
Website: LetsGoDigital - Canon EOS 5D Review
Breeze Systems Press Release
DSLR Remote Pro v1.1 improves exposure control and adds support for new cameras
20th October, 2005 : Breeze Systems today released DSLR Remote Pro v1.1. Photographers can now use Breeze Systems’ highly regarded software to control Canon EOS 5D, 350D/Rebel XT, 20D, EOS-1D Mark II and EOS-1Ds Mark II cameras as well as the 10D, 300D/Rebel, EOS-1D and EOS-1Ds models.
Improve exposure control in tricky lighting conditions with DSLR Remote Pro’s unique ability to auto bracket up to 15 images with Canon DSLR cameras by varying either the shutter speed or the aperture. This greatly simplifies the taking of sequences of images which can then be combined to make High Dynamic Range (HDR) images in your image editor. This technique is particularly effective when taking interior shots or product shots without the need for sophisticated lighting.
View color managed previews where color accuracy is critical. Previews may also be sharpened using the highly acclaimed HQ sharpening routines used in BreezeBrowser Pro.
CNET have posted their review of the 16 megapixel Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
“Canon maintains its industry-leading position with the 16.7-megapixel EOS 1Ds Mark II, the highest-resolution small-format digital SLR. Intended for studio and landscape photographers who prefer the size and flexibility of 35mm-style cameras, the 1Ds Mark II sets a new benchmark for performance and image quality. With a wealth of upgrades, this camera succeeds and surpasses Canon’s original EOS 1Ds, introduced two years earlier.”
Website: CNET - Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Review
Breeze Systems Press Release
BreezeBrowser Pro v1.3 adds lens distortion correction, Canon EOS 5D and EOS-1D Mark II N Raw Conversion
14th October, 2005 : Breeze Systems announce the immediate availability of BreezeBrowser Pro v1.3, latest release of their acclaimed image browsing and raw conversion software. BreezeBrowser Pro v1.3 introduces Canon EOS 5D and Canon EOS-1D Mark II N raw conversion and automatic lens distortion correction.
New! Automatic correction of lens distortion for batches or single images. Barrel distortion was removed from this interior shot using BreezeBrowser Pro while maximizing image quality. BreezeBrowser Pro uses high quality resampling algorithms and Thomas Niemann’s highly regarded PTLens profiles to correct for barrel and pincushion lens distortion. Automatic lens distortion correction can be applied to images from both zoom and fixed focal length lenses and is available when converting raw files or when generating proofs from raw files and other image formats.
Canon have released a new firmware update (version 1.1.4) for the EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
This firmware update (version 1.1.4) includes the following improvements:
1. Fixes the phenomenon of horizontal line noise appearing when P.Fn-21 is set to ON.
Fixes the phenomenon of horizontal line noise appearing occasionally in shots taken with P.Fn-21 set to ON at high ISO setting, depending on the shutter release timing.
2. Fixes the phenomenon of file number errors that occurred when shooting bulb exposures.
Fixes the phenomenon of file numbers not being sequential even if the file number setting is for sequential numbers if a CF card is replaced while the power of the camera is switched on.
3. Improves reliability in communication when using some CF cards.
Note for users of the Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E1/E1A:
The camers’s WFT-E1/E1A settings will be initialized after the firmware is updated. Please re-set them after the update.
Website: Firmware Update Version 1.1.4
DPReview have posted their review of the 16 megapixel Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
“The EOS-1Ds was the first digital SLR released with a full frame 35 mm size sensor and the first digital SLR with double-digit megapixel count. Two years later and the new EOS-1Ds Mark II raises the megapixel count by 5.6 million pixels, which equates to a 23% increase in horizontal and vertical pixel count. It shows too, the EOS-1Ds Mark II delivers a level of detail unmatched by any other current digital SLR (excluding the more ‘exotic’ medium format backs). The 1Ds Mark II also demonstrates a level of per-pixel sharpness which is often so difficult to achieve with Bayer pattern sensors.”
Website: DPReview - Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Review
Canon USA have released a new version, 2.0.3, of Digital Photo Professional, Canon’s software application for editing and converting RAW images shot by EOS Digital cameras.
1. Changes from Digital Photo Professional 2.0.1
1-1. In Picture Style, some of the setting item names were incorrect. Those names have been fixed as the following chart shows.
Incorrect / Correct
- / Landscape
- / Portrait
- / Neutral
- / Faithful
B/W / Monochrome
1-2. In images taken with EOS 5D or EOS-1D, some of the color tones would be missing. This problem has been fixed
Digital Foci Press Release
Picture Porter Digital Photo Album Securely Saves Photos on the Road on 20GB & 40GB Portable Hard Drives without Heavy Laptop
Keep on Snapping Photos - Never Run Out of Memory Card Space Again
Los Angeles, California, September 23, 2005 – Digital Foci, Inc. (www.digitalfoci.com) introduced today Picture Porter portable digital photo album with hard drive and card reader that lets you instantly and securely save and view digital photos and video on a hard drive wherever you go, so you can keep snapping away and not worry about running out of memory card space.
Especially valuable for vacations, trade shows, special events, parties, and for pro photographers who take and show a large number of photos, Picture Porter saves photos on its compact portable hard drive, so you don’t have to bring heavy laptops on the road. Picture Porter takes the worry out of losing precious photos stored on easily damaged memory cards. Its built-in memory card slots let you copy and archive photos directly from any digital camera card, without the need of cumbersome cabling. With Picture Porters’ compact 20GB and 40GB hard drive versions, you’ll virtually never run out of memory card space on the road again.
Imaging Resource have posted their review of the 16 megapixel Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
“Canon has held a commanding position at the high end of the professional SLR market, ever since they introduced the original EOS-1D in late 2001. The full-frame 11-megapixel EOS-1Ds was likewise a breakthrough product when announce in 2002. In late 2004 though, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II set a new standard for ultimate resolution in a full-frame 35mm-format digital SLR. Carrying over a host of improvements and innovations from the 1D Mark II, the EOS-1Ds Mark II improves image quality and performance over the original 1Ds, while at the same time raising the resolution to an incredible 16.7 megapixels. No other camera currently on the market comes close to matching the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II for its combination of resolution and shooting speed, and (as of this writing in September 2005), Canon is the only manufacturer offering digital SLRs with full frame 35mm sensors.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II 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 EOS-1D Mark II N digital SLR camera is announced. The EOS 1D Mark II N is an upgrade of the EOS-1D Mark II, principally offering a larger frame burst on both JPEG and RAW mode and increasing the size of the LCD monitor to 2.5 inches. Dual CF and SD memory card slots are provided on the Canon EOS 1D Mark II Nfor separate RAW and JPEG recording. The Canon EOS 1D Mark II N will be available from September 2005 for £3049.99 RRP inc. VAT/ €4399.99 RRP inc. VAT.
Canon UK Press Release
Professional requirements drive Canon’s new EOS-1D Mark II N
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the EOS-1D Mark II N: an upgrade of the award winning EOS-1D Mark II. Still featuring 8.2 Megapixel performance at 8.5 frames per second, the upgraded camera has a higher performance buffer to deliver a 48 frame burst in JPEG and 22 frame burst in RAW. LCD monitor size increases from 2.0” to a 2.5”, and dual CF and SD memory card slots provide for separate RAW and JPEG recording. Colour Matrix and parameter settings are replaced with Canon’s new Picture Style – six pre-sets that simplify in-camera control over image optimisation and processing.
“The EOS-1D Mark II took photojournalism and sports photography by storm and was chosen by more than 70% of professional photographers at the 2004 Athens Olympics, ” reported Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “Taking feedback from the professionals as their guide, Canon’s engineers have made a great camera even better.”
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 EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is announced. The Canon 70-300mm lens features Canon’s latest 3-stop Image Stabilisation system and replaces the existing EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens. The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens will be available from October 2005 priced £469.00 RRP inc VAT/ €679.99 RRP inc VAT.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon’s new telephoto zoom lens with Image Stabiliser – the EF70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the EF70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM zoom lens. Featuring the latest 3-stop Image Stabiliser (IS) for outstanding camera shake reduction, the lens is also equipped with super responsive auto focus. Replacing the popular EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM, the world’s first interchangeable lens with IS, the lens is expected to appeal to serious amateur nature and sports photographers looking to achieve outstanding results while shooting hand held.
Bibble Labs Press Release
Bibble Labs releases version 4.3 Update with support for D50 - Includes support for new plug-in interface to support BPTLens lens distortion plug-in.
Austin Texas (August 11th, 2005) - Bibble Labs today announced the availability of version 4.3 of its popular Raw Workflow software. In addition to adding support for the new Nikon D50, D70s and Espon R-D1 cameras, this version adds a powerful plug-in interface to the program. Simultaneous to the release of Bibble 4.3, Bibble Labs has also released its first free plug-in. Released under the GPL, The BPTLens plugin is designed to quickly and easily remove common types of lens distortion from raw images. By performing its corrections on linear data at the earliest phase of the image pipeline, BPTLens and Bibble are able to deliver the highest quality images possible.
Extensis Press Release
Free update includes added RAW camera support, plus Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger and Adobe Creative Suite 2 compatibility.
Wednesday 6th July, 2005 — Extensis, a division of Celartem, Inc., today released a free update to Portfolio 7 – the leading Digital Asset Management (DAM) solution for creative professionals – for both Macintosh and Windows platforms. Portfolio 7.0.6 provides compatibility updates for Adobe’s Creative Suite 2 and Apple’s Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger). Additionally, Extensis has added support for 14 new camera formats on both Mac and Windows versions of Portfolio. Registered owners of Portfolio 7 are eligible to receive the free upgrades immediately through the Extensis website at http://www.extensis.com/portfolio
Canon have released a new firmware update (version 1.1.3) for the EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
This firmware update (version 1.1.3) includes the following additional functons and improvements:
* With the version 1.1.2 firmware, pressing the DISPLAY button right after shooting images resulted in an abnormal display and the camera would freeze. This firmware fixes that problem.
Website: Firmware Update Version 1.1.3
Canon have released a new firmware update (version 1.2.3) for the EOS-1D Mark II DSLR.
This firmware update (version 1.2.3) includes the following additional functons and improvements:
* With the version 1.2.2 firmware, pressing the DISPLAY button right after shooting images resulted in an abnormal display and the camera would freeze. Images are not lost when this occurs. Also, removing and then reloading the battery restores the camera to normal operation. This version 1.2.3 firmware incorporates fixes for the issue described above.
Website: Firmware Update Version 1.2.3
LEXAR CUSTOMER ADVISORY
JUNE 1, 2005
To: Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II, EOS-1D Mark II, EOS 20D, and EOS Digital Rebel XT / EOS 350D Digital / EOS Kiss Digital N camera customers using Lexar memory cards.
Update: On June 3, Lexar will release a firmware update for its Professional 80x CompactFlash customers who experience a problem with the Canon cameras listed. Issues experienced with other cards are expected to be addressed by Canon through its firmware release.
Canon USA have issued an advisory note on their website about two separate issues with images disappearing on a number their digital SLR cameras. Canon are planning to issue new firmware to address the first problem, whilst Lexar also plan to offer a free firmware update by the end of May. Read on for all the details…
Canon USA Service Notice
Digital SLR Image Disappearance
May 20, 2005 - Canon U.S.A.
We have received inquiries about the problem of images disappearing when using specific digital SLR cameras. As a result of our investigation, we found that the following two problems may occur. Please be advised of the details and countermeasures.
Phase One Press Release
CAPTURE ONE 3.7 - Available for download
Capture One 3.7 with new features & increased stability
What’s new in PRO/DB?
One of the major news in Capture One 3.7 PRO is tethered support for Canon cameras as well as new RAW file support for Canon 350D/G6, Nikon D2X, Olumpus E-300/C7070 and Pentax *istDS. Also, the new noise suppression slider will enhance the overall quality of your images.
The PRO Mac version provides you with the ability to use current image adjustments sliders to create special styles that can then be applied to individual images and saved as your personal styles.
Professional photographer Thom Hogan has published his review of the new 12 megapixel Nikon D2X digital SLR.
“I believe Nikon has opened a huge can of worms here. No photographer that I know of currently sees a user-advantage to white balance encryption, and that’s problematic on its face. Nikon still doesn’t quite understand that if you don’t fully design to customer needs and wants, the competing manufacturer that does will grow faster and sell more product. The pro market is even more unforgiving. A Canon 1DsMarkII has no similar flaw, fatal or annoying. Thus, there’s a friction present that keeps a pro from picking a D2x over a 1DsMarkII. Other traits have to overcome that friction. At this level of product, the only trait that has that potential is that the D2x is US$2500-3000 less in price than the 1DsMarkII. Both cameras take unbelievable pictures, both have pro-level performance and features, but one has a workflow flaw and costs less than the one that doesn’t have that flaw. How much is that flaw worth to you?”
Website: Thom Hogan - Nikon D2X Review
Canon UK Press Release
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, has been awarded four best product medals in this year’s Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) awards. Cementing its place as the only imaging technology innovator to have leading edge products through the entire digital imaging chain, Canon took the main awards in each of the camera, printer and projector categories.
· “Best A4 Photo Printer in Europe, 2005” for its PIXMA iP8500 printer
· “Best Professional Digital SLR Camera in Europe, 2005” for its EOS-1Ds Mark II camera
· “Best Entry Level Digital SLR Camera in Europe, 2005” for its EOS 350D camera
· “Best Photo Projector in Europe, 2005” for its XEED SX50 projector
Epson UK Press Release
New Firmware for the Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer
The Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer allows users to store and preview digital photos, movies and music. The 3.8 inch Photo Fine display provides outstanding definition for unsurpassed picture quality.
April 2005 - A firmware upgrade is now available for the Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer. New features include; increased image handling; compatibility with a larger range of digital SLR cameras and the addition of histograms. Existing P-2000 customers can download the new firmware (version 02.02), free of charge from the Epson website. Go to www.epson.co.uk, click on digital photography products and follow the support link from the product information page.
Website: Read my Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer Review
Canon UK Press Release
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, has been awarded two prizes by DIWA (Digital Imaging Websites Association) for outstanding digital cameras. The Canon EOS 20D received DIWA’s Platinum Award for the best ‘Digital System Camera’ of 2004, and the Digital IXUS 40 won a gold medal in the ‘Amateur Digital Mini Camera’ category.
Throughout the year, DIWA members rigorously test and review digital imaging products, awarding those with the highest scores gold, silver or bronze medals. Once a year, one of the gold winners from each of three categories is selected by the members as the best of the best – honoured by a DIWA Platinum Award.
Canon Europe Press Release
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, March 2005. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, has been awarded two prizes by DIWA (Digital Imaging Websites Association) for outstanding digital cameras: the Canon EOS 20D received DIWA’s Platinum Award for the best ‘Digital System Camera’ of 2004, and the Digital IXUS 40 won a gold medal in the Amateur Digital Mini Camera category.
Throughout the year, DIWA members rigorously test and review digital imaging products, awarding those with the highest scores gold, silver or bronze medals. Once a year, one of the gold winners from each of three categories is selected by the members as the best of the best – honoured by a DIWA Platinum Award.
“At Canon we are passionate about photography, so we are delighted to receive these two prestigious DIWA awards,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “The awards reinforce our commitment to Canon customers and cement our dedication to continually setting standards in digital photography technology.”
Epson have released a new firmware update for thier P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer, which I enthusiastically reviewed earlier this week.
The firmware provides the following enhancements:
1) Supports JPEG images from digital SLR cameras with an image-capture sensor of up to 17.8 megapixels.
2) Added Histogram information that shows the photo’s distribution of highlights, shadows, and mid-tones.
3) Additional RAW file support. The P-2000 now supports images in RAW format with the following digital SLR cameras..
EPSON R-D1, Nikon D100, D1H, D2H, D70, D1X, D2X, Canon EOS D30, EOS D60, EOS 10D, Kiss Digital, EOS 1D Mark II, EOS-1Ds Mark II, EOS Digital Rebel, EOS 20D, Konica Minolta Maxxum-7D, Pentax *istD and*istDS
Website: Epson America
Canon USA have released a new version of Digital Photo Professional, Canon’s software application for editing and converting RAW images shot by EOS Digital cameras.
Changes from the previous version include:
(1-1) The Copy Stamp Tool (to adjust images by copying and pasting some part of the image) was added.
(1-2) The Rename Tool (to change multiple file names at once) was added.
(1-3) Lines appeared in the bottom of images converted from RAW images taken with certain models when using Digital Photo Professional 1.5.0/1.6.0 on a computer with dual processors or Hyper-Threading Technology. This problem has now been fixed.
(1-4) Support was added for the EOS D60 and EOS Kiss Digital N / EOS DIGITAL REBEL XT / EOS 350D DIGITAL.
(1-5) The amount of time it takes for image thumbnails to appear has been reduced.
Canon have released a new firmware version (1.2.1) for the EOS-1D Mark II DSLR.
This firmware update fixes/improves the following:
1. Three new languages (Russian, Traditional Chinese, and Korean) added to the camera menus.
2. Improvement in communication reliability when using some CF cards.
3. The issue of communication failure between the camera and some personal computers has been fixed.
Tom’s Hardware Guide have published a brief but fascinating interview with Chuck Westfall, Manager of the Canon’s Cameras Technical Information Department.
“Is there a theoretical limit on megapixels? Does the consumer care about high pixel counts?
“Consumers generally don’t care about really high megapixel counts. It’s the commercial studio that need to do double page spreads or 11 inch by 7 inch prints at 300dpi. We don’t think there will be a huge jump in megapixels, rather it will be incremental, like f-stops. The Canon 1DS Mark II is at 16 megapixels, our next camera might have 22 megapixels. “
Website: Tom’s Hardware Guide - THG Interviews Canon Cameras
Canon EOS 350D is announced today. The EOS 350D (called the EOS Digital Rebel XT in the USA) is an updated version of the popular Canon EOS 300D DSLR. The EOS 350D Digital features a new APS-C size 8 Megapixel CMOS sensor. The Canon EOS 350D is powered by the same DIGIC II image processor found in Canon’s professional series D-SLR cameras. The EOS 350D features 3 frames per second, 14 frame burst operation, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface, simultaneous RAW and Large JPEG writing and 0.2 second start up time. The Canon EOS 350D will cost £749.99 and be available in March.
Canon UK Press Release
Introducing the new EOS 350D - Canon upgrades world’s best selling Digital SLR
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the upgrade to its hugely popular EOS 300D Digital SLR - the 8.0 Megapixel, 3 frame per second EOS 350D. The launch completes a refresh of the entire Digital EOS line-up and confirms Canon’s commitment to Digital SLR research and development.
DxO Optics Pro 2.2 has been made available by DxO Labs. Optics Pro 2.2 now supports the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II digital SLR camera, the new Adobe Digital Negative file format and has a simplified pricing structure.
DxO Labs Press Release
DXO LABS SHIPS DXO OPTICS PRO 2.2 ADDING SUPPORT FOR CANON EOS-1DS MARK II, ADOBE DIGITAL NEGATIVE SUPPORT (DNG) AND A SIMPLIFIED PRICING STRUCTURE
Paris, France, February 10, 2005 - DxO Labs, a software developer focused on research in image processing, announced today the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro 2.2 software. This latest version of DxO Labs’ flagship product for demanding photographers adds:
- Support for the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II.
- Support for the Adobe Digital Negative (DNG) file format as an output option.
- A simplified pricing structure and even better value. DxO Optics Pro is now offered either in a “Standard” version for expert amateur cameras or “Elite” version for all cameras including professional D-SLRS. DxO Raw Engine is now included in both versions.
DIWA member website Steves Digicams have posted their review of the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
“How do you improve on what was widely regarded as the best studio/commercial dSLR available, the EOS 1Ds? The was the challenge faced by Canon’s engineers, and they responded with the 1Ds Mark II. The most touted improvement is the Mark II’s 50% increase in resolution, from 11.1-megapxels to 16.7-megapixels; it produces whopping full frame images of 4992 x 3328 pixels compared to the 1Ds 4064 x 2704. In addition to resolution, the Mark II offers improved responsiveness and a greater range of sensitivity.”
Website: Steves Digicams - Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Review
Photo-i have started an interactive review of the 16 megapixel Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR.
“The Canon EOS 1Ds Mk II is a full frame 36 x 24mm (35mm film full frame) digital camera, with a 16.70 megapixel CMOS sensor. This will produce a 47.5mb file, a good selling point for professional users and the seriously rich hobbyist. For the editorial, stock and commercial photographer this may be the only camera a photographer will ever need. At just over £5000 it has to deliver a lot of quality, so does this camera live up to expectations? Read on and find out.”
Website: Photo-i - Canon 1D Mark II Review
Focus on Imaging 2005 is the UK’s biggest photography trade show, held on February 27th - March 2nd. PhotographyBLOG will be there to bring you all the news from the show floor. Canon have got in early by issuing the following press release, detailing which products they will be displaying. With the PMA show held a week before Focus on Imaging, I’d expect a few as-yet-unannounced products to be joining this list.
Canon UK Press Release
Canon will be displaying the photography of 12 members of its consumer programme ‘Imagine’ at Focus on Imaging 2005 (N.E.C Birmingham, 27 February – 2 March 2005). The work will be displayed on Canon’s stand (L20) along with Canon’s latest range of class-leading consumer imaging equipment.
Imagine is designed to help Canon customers make the most of their product. It features a gallery where members are invited to publish photographs they have taken, and every month Canon awards a framed print to some of the most interesting entries. The Imagine Members’ Gallery on the stand at Focus is a selection of the best shots.
Canon have released a new firmware version for the EOS-1Ds Mark II DSLR.
This firmware update (version 1.0.3) includes the following additional functions and improvements:
1. Improvements to AF tracking in AI Servo AF.
2. Reduction in color differences between RAW and JPEG thumbnail images.
Website: Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Firmware Update Version 1.0.3
Breeze Systems Press Release 06/12/04
6th December, 2004 : Breeze Systems today announced BreezeBrowser Pro, new version of their well known image browser, raw conversion, and web page generation software.
Company Founder and Director Chris Breeze said “Professionals love the speed and simplicity with which they can review images using BreezeBrowser. The new BreezeBrowser Pro introduces a unique combined conversion facility, outstandingly fast image browsing and side by side image comparison.”
BreezeBrowser Pro gives photographers the toolset they need to:
Convert, resize, sharpen and level raw images for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Minolta and Olympus cameras
Enhance recovered highlight colors with BreezeBrowser Pro?s unique combined raw conversion for Canon cameras including EOS-1Ds MkII, 20D, 1D MkII and Pro1.
Browse images incredibly quickly in several modes
Display most major image formats including raw, JPEG, TIFF and Adobe DNG.
Extensive handling of EXIF shooting and IPTC data plus raw+JPEG handling
Rotate JPEGS losslessly
Generate attractive web pages simply and quickly
Caption, watermark and include online ordering on web pages
Print contact sheets or output them to file
Batch process images and galleries
ProFotoSoftware Ltd Press Release 30/11/04
ProFotoSoftware have today released version 1.10 of PFS Image Darkroom for Windows,a program for converting Canon RAW images from EOS Digital SLRs into 16 bit and 8 bit TIF files as well as 8 bit JPEG files.
This new release adds support for the 20D and 1Ds Mark II EOS Digital SLRs, as well as improving the Raw Preview facility.
PFS Image Darkroom improves digital photographer’s workflow by removing the frustrating delays associated with Raw image processing. The software remains fully operational during Raw processing, enabling users to prepare the next image or set of images for processing instead of pausing whilst the processing is performed.
Canon USA Press Release 01/11/04
COMPLETE THE PLAY FOR GREAT IMAGES WITH CANON’S CONNECT AND SCORE REBATE PROMOTION
Consumers Can Score A Visa Gift Card Worth Up To $100 In Value When They Purchase Select Canon Digital Cameras or Camcorders with the Select Photo Printer
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Nov. 1, 2004 - At the Super Bowl or high school playoffs, catching the photo of the game winning touchdown is a moment that deserves a fine print to share with friends and family. This football season consumers can connect their favorite Canon digital cameras or MiniDV camcorders to Canon’s popular photo printers, and score great photographs while qualifying for valuable rebates up to $100.
Canon, an official sponsor of the NFL is the only manufacturer that can supply a complete digital imaging solution that includes digital SLR, digital compact cameras, camcorders and photo printers. Canon is supporting this consumer promotion with an NFL themed advertising campaign that features five-second spots added to Canon’s existing television advertising as well as one-quarter page ads featuring the Connect and Score promotion.
Canon have released firmware version 1.0.3 for the EOS-1D Mark II DSLR.
This firmware update fixes/improves the following:
- Added new functions for communicating with the Speedlite 580EX.
A color temperature information transmission function has been added to stabilize the white balance.
- Reduced noise when shooting bulb exposures.
Reduced the noise when shooting bulb exposures (astronomical shots, etc.).
- Fixed sensor-cleaning operations.
Fixed the problem of the shutter not opening if sensor cleaning was performed immediately after taking bulb exposures.
Bob Atkins has published an interesting translation of an interview with one of the Canon directors, Mr. Iwashita, with Bob’s personal viewpoint interweaved into the interview text. It doens’t contain very good news if you are one of the people that wish Canon would release a digital version of their popular EOS 3 film SLR:
“It seems that Canon are currently happy with the 3 tier system of DSLRs, the consumer level Digital Rebel, the “prosumer” level EOS 20D and the pro level EOS 1D mark II and 1Ds mark II. There are no current plans to introduce a digital version of the EOS 3. The current 3 tiers don’t really compete with each other and sales are good. There’s no reason to add a 4th level between the 20D and 1D models.”
Website: Bob Atkins - Canon’s Digital Plans
Canon UK Press Release 27/09/04
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, will release over 90 new consumer products in 2004, averaging the release of one new consumer product every four days. Of these, nineteen are digital cameras. The announcement coincides with the start of Photokina, the bi-annual European imaging and photography exhibition hosted in Cologne, Germany from September 28.
Canon holds the number one market position within Europe for Digital Still Cameras, Digital SLRs and Analogue cameras1. These figures reflect Canon?s ongoing investment commitment to focused Research & Development and the commercialisation of new technologies. Consistent with previous years, Canon last year invested approximately 8.2% of total global revenue ? just under 2 billion EUR -in R&D. Canon was also second in terms of receiving US patents in 2003, with nearly 2,000 registered2.
“We are the only company in the world to manufacture our own lenses, our own digital imaging sensors and our own digital image processors,? said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe, commenting on Canon?s strong showing at Photokina this year. ?Our commitment, expertise and technological advantages translate into superbly built products of outstanding reliability and quality - the key reasons behind our number one position in Europe with digital cameras.”
Extensis Inc. Press Release 27/09/04
Free filter powered by Bibble Labs enables professional photographers to read Raw data from image files of leading digital SLR cameras.
Photokina, Cologne, Germany - September 27, 2004 - Extensis Inc. today announced an update to its Pro Photo Raw Image Filter for Portfolio 7. The updated filter will be a free upgrade for registered owners of Extensis’ digital asset management (DAM) solution for organizing digital photos, illustrations, page layouts and presentations.
With the Pro Photo Raw Image Filter, Portfolio generates high-quality thumbnails and previews from the unprocessed raw image files created by professional digital cameras from Nikon, Olympus, Kodak, Canon, Fuji, Konica-Minolta, Pentax and Imacon. With the Pro Photo Raw Image Filter, Portfolio 7 can extract EXIF metadata and IPTC from the Raw files, create thumbnails for displaying the images in catalogs, and generate high-resolution JPEG previews on the fly for detailed viewing, printing, slideshows and QuickTime movies.
“There have been rapid developments in the digital camera industry since we released our first Raw camera support for Portfolio last year,” said Dan Harlacher, Extensis Portfolio product manager. “With this update, professional photographers now have the Raw camera support they demand for keeping pace with the new camera developments without losing the ability to preview, keyword, organize and sort thousands of images within Portfolio without getting bogged down in a lengthy conversion process.”
Canon UK Press release 21/09/04
Introducing the EOS-1Ds Mark II - Canon’s new 16.7 Megapixel Digital SLR extends studio photographer’s options
Canon, world leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of its new flagship camera: the 35mm full-frame 16.7 Megapixel EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR. The camera is expected to appeal to professional studio and commercial photographers.
Featuring a full-frame 36 x 24mm 16.7 Megapixel CMOS sensor, the EOS-1Ds Mark II produces images with outstanding colour rendition and dynamic range. It has sufficient resolution to produce files which convert to 50MB uncompressed TIFF at 24 bit colour depth, now considered standard acceptable size by leading international photo agencies and stock libraries.
Replacing the award winning 11.1 Megapixel EOS-1Ds, the camera is powered by Canon’s second generation DIGIC II image processor and is capable of firing at 4 fps for bursts of up to 32 frames in JPEG, or 11 frames in RAW. An optional wireless adaptor (WFT-E1 - also released today) delivers high speed IEEE802.11b/g wireless LAN and 100 Megabit per second wired LAN support.
Besides the inherent advantages of digital, such as immediate turn-around and elimination of film costs, it is the flexibility of the EOS 35mm SLR format which Canon expects to appeal to many studio photographers. For the first time, medium format image quality combines with access to the world?s most extensive range of professional lenses, spanning from 14mm to 1200mm.
“The EOS-1Ds Mark II is a tremendous achievement, it represents the pinnacle of Canon?s digital camera technology,” said Malcolm Hills, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging in the UK and Ireland. “With its resolution, image quality, immediacy of wireless and the power and flexibility of SLR, the EOS-1Ds Mark II offers the first real digital alternative to medium format, which has so far been the choice for mainstream commercial studio and location work.”
The EOS-1Ds MKII will be available from November 2004 for £5999.99 RRP inc. VAT / EUROS 8699.99 RRP inc. VAT.
Canon UK Press Release 21/09/04
Stunning new Digital IXUS 40 and Digital IXUS 30 join IXUS family
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the super stylish brother-sister cameras - the Digital IXUS 40 and Digital IXUS 30. A breakthrough in lens material science has paved the way for the smallest ever cameras from Canon to feature a 3x optical zoom. These are also the first in the IXUS range to incorporate Canon’s DIGIC II processor.
With beautifully rounded curves and polished, all-metal bodies, Canon takes the IXUS design philosophy to new levels. These petite and desirable digital accessories feature ‘over-size’ 2.0” LCD displays and blistering DIGIC II performance processing power for super responsive shooting, superb image quality and instant playback. DIGIC II also means that the length of video footage these cameras can shoot is limited only by the capacity of the SD card .
“Icons of design are created where art and technological breakthroughs fuse,” said Malcolm Hills, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging in the UK and Ireland. “The new UA lens material developed by Canon?s research scientists led the way for our designers to take Yasushi Shiotani?s original IXUS design to a new, higher plane. We are thrilled with the result.”
The Digital IXUS 40 will be available from October 2004 for £319 RRP inc. VAT / EUROS 460.99 RRP inc. VAT
The Digital IXUS 30 will be available from October 2004 for £249 RRP inc. VAT / EUROS 359.99 RRP inc. VAT exclusively at Jessops
Breeze Systems Press Release 20/09/04
BreezeBrowser v2.10 adds raw conversion for Canon EOS-1D Mark II, PowerShot Pro1 and S60 for US $49.95
20 September 2004: Breeze Systems today announced BreezeBrowser v2.10, latest release of its raw conversion, browsing and web page generation software. This release allows Canon EOS-1D Mark II, PowerShot Pro1 and S60 owners to use BreezeBrowser for raw conversion.
The ability to view, rename and copy Raw+JPEG images is also extended to Canon EOS 1D Mark II, Canon EOS 20D, Nikon D70 and Nikon D2H users in this release.
BreezeBrowser v2.10 supports high quality conversion of raw files from the following Canon EOS cameras: 1D Mark II, 1Ds, 1D, 10D, 300D/Digital Rebel, D60 and D30 and the following Canon Powershot cameras: G5, G3, G2, G1, Pro1, Pro90IS, S60, S50, S45, S40 and S30.
BreezeBrowser is Windows based software developed and sold by Breeze Systems Ltd. Other products include Downloader Pro, DSLR Remote Pro and PSRemote. Breeze Systems’ customers include Getty Images, Reuters and many world class photographers. BreezeBrowser is available from www.breezesys.com for US $49.94 or US $64.90 bundled with Downloader Pro v1.4. The price includes one year’s free upgrades from the date of purchase.
Breeze Systems Limited is based in Hampshire, UK and has been providing innovative IT solutions since 1994. Many thousands of customers worldwide rely on BreezeBrowser.
Tom’s Hardware have posted their review of the 14 megapixel Kodak DCS Pro SLR.
“Products such as the Canon EOS 300D or the Nikon D70 have made digital SLR cameras accessible to the general public. Meanwhile, offerings for the professional market are limited. For example, there is not much beyond the Contax N Digital and the Canon EOS 1Ds in the pro sector. However, now that it’s technically possible to produce DSLRs that are no more bulky than traditional film SLRs, Kodak has come to the fore with its 14-million pixel monster, available in two models - the SLR/c (Canon mount) and SLR/n (Nikon mount).”
Canon UK Press Release 31/08/04
Canon’s PIXMA iP8500
Professional series A4 photo printing
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces its new 8-ink flagship professional photo printer: the 4800 x 2400 dpi PIXMA iP8500. Canon’s ChromaPLUS technology adds additional red and green inks for vibrant, highly saturated colours. Combined with a FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology print head, which generates permanent 2-picolitre ink droplets, this new PIXMA printer produces the ultimate professional photo prints. It also does so in record time - an A4 photo prints in just 34 seconds.
The iP8500 features advanced media handling and Canon’s transparent single ink system, as well as direct photo printing from most contemporary digital cameras and digital video cameras supporting the PictBridge standard.
“The PIXMA range of printers continues Canon’s commitment to superb quality, unfailing reliability and purity of design. The iP8500 perfectly embodies this philosophy,” said Malcolm Hills, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging in the UK and Ireland. “With industry-leading, professional photo print quality and speed, the iP8500 is the ultimate A4 photo printer.”
Canon UK Press Release 19/08/04
New Canon professional model Speedlite flash ideal for digital photography
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces a new flagship model in its EX Speedlite range: the Canon Speedlite 580EX. Now Canon’s most powerful flash unit, the Speedlite 580EX has a guide number of 58 (m/ISO 100 at 105mm) and an adjustable angle of coverage suitable for wide lenses to 14mm.
Replacing the popular Canon Speedlite 550EX, the Speedlite 580EX improves on many specifications of its predecessor, and includes new features to improve digital EOS SLR flash results. These include transfer of colour temperature data to optimise the white balance compensation, and auto-adjustment of the zoom flash position to best compliment the sensor size of the camera to which the unit is attached.
Circuitry modifications improve on the Speedlite 550EX recycle times by approximately 25%. An ultra-bright 3-LED configuration focus assist-beam has been designed to be compatible with all focus points within the frame of all EOS AF systems, including the new EOS 20D 9-point AF. The unit has improved exposure stability, with a tolerance of just ?0.3 stops.
Canon USA Press Release 12/08/04
CANON RECEIVES 2004 INSIGHT AWARD FOR MOST INNOVATIVE CMOS IMAGE SENSOR TECHNOLOGY
Canon EOS 10D Recognized as One of the First High-End Digital SLR Cameras To Take Advantage of the Innovative CMOS Technology
Lake Success, N.Y., August 12, 2004 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ), today announced that it has received Semiconductor Insights’s 2004 INSIGHT Award for Most Innovative CMOS Image Sensor Technology.
Semiconductor Insights (SI), the leader in technical and patent analyses of integrated circuits and structures, analyzes hundreds of devices each year from the world’s most innovative companies. Through its INSIGHT Awards program, SI recognizes devices or technologies that change the performance/cost equation of their respective segments with a new design or process innovation. For the awards program, SI tested the CMOS Image Sensor Technology built into the Canon EOS 10D, one of the first high-end SLRs to use a CMOS image sensor.
“Our analysis confirmed that Canon has achieved the sensitivity and shutter speed of a CCD technology in a low cost CMOS process. As well, Canon’s CMOS process delivers a distinct power advantage over competitive CCD plays,” said Lluis Paris, director of TECHinsights for Semiconductor Insights. “The result is an affordable and high quality SLR.”
Pixingo Press Release 05/08/04
About PhotoFirst
PhotoFirst is powerful digital photography workflow software. It is designed by, and for, professional photographers to simplify, streamline and save time in the management of their digital photographs from camera to client presentation. This fully integrated package allows the photographer to create job sessions that keep track of photos, photographer and job information and automatically tracks time spent on a project. Once imported, images can be organized, developed (if RAW), edited, grouped, batch corrected and renumbered. When done to the photographer’s satisfaction, the photos are exported for viewing by the client as studio branded custom Web galleries, proof sheets and/or resized image files. Photographer, job and copyright information travels with all images and the source files are never changed. A built in, side-by-side comparison window allows real time review and selection with customers for use as a sales tool.
The 18th PhotographyBLOG Portfolio has been submitted by Paul Teixeira.
“This selection of portraits and other people pictures spans a period of 28 years and a variety of techniques; from 35mm film to digital captures. Most of these pictures were taken on assignment for magazines or newspapers, which defined the way I photographed the people portrayed. The pictures were either used to illustrate an interview/article or had to speak for itself on an editorial page.”
“In the mid 1980’s I started to work as a photojournalist in The Netherlands, Europe. After a couple of years I decided that written journalism would be nice for a change. That career move resulted in a consecutive 11 years of writing stories as a journalist, managing other journalists as editor in chief and getting new magazines in the stores as a publisher. About 1.5 years ago I decided to go back to my roots: photojournalism. Albeit not on a full time basis. Thanks to the digital era, I’ve rediscovered the joys of photography. I was never a big fan of dwelling in the dark room developing films and printing pictures. Nowadays I carry the Canon EOS 1D and Canon EOS 1D Mark II and no films. I’m loving it!”
Website: http://www.pbase.com/paul_teixeira
Website: Portfolios: Paul Teixeira
DO Labs Press Release 21/06/04
DXO OPTICS PRO ADDS IMMEDIATE SUPPORT FOR NIKON D2H AND CANON EOS 1D MARK II DIGITAL CAMERAS
Paris, France, June 21st, 2004 - DxO Optics Pro, the award wining image correction software application from DO Labs now supports the two most recent high-end Digital Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras from Canon and Nikon, namely the Nikon D2H and the Canon EOS 1D Mark II. Released on May 24, 2004 for both Macintosh and Windows, DxO Optics Pro software automatically eliminates Distortion, Vignetting1, Blur and Lateral Chromatic Aberrations to dramatically improve digital image quality.
Canon UK Press Release 16/06/04
Canon wins four TIPA awards for best photographic and imaging products of 2004
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, has received four Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) awards for the following products:
“Best D-SLR Professional Camera 2004” - EOS-1D Mark II
“Breakthrough Award 2004” - EOS 300D
“Best 35mm SLR Camera 2004” for the - EOS 30V Date / 33V
“Best Technology 2004” - DVK-E2 Data Verification Kit software
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.”
DO Labs Press Release 11/05/04
DO LABS RELEASES DXO OPTICS PRO SOFTWARE THROUGH E-STORE OPENING MAY 24TH
Breakthrough software application for serious photographers boosts image quality of digital cameras and lenses
Paris, France (May 11, 2004) - DO Labs, a software company focused on applied mathematics for image enhancement, announces the availability of DxO Optics Pro - its revolutionary software solution for dramatically improving digital image quality.
Designed for use by professional and discerning amateur photographers, DxO Optics Pro software delivers genuine and perceptible quality improvements by automatically correcting images for the following major optical faults:
- Distortion
- Vignetting*
- Blur (lack of sharpness)
- Lateral chromatic aberration
The modular design of DxO Optics Pro allows photographers to maximize performance of their existing and future equipment. In particular, DxO Optics Pro optimizes image quality when shooting conditions are difficult: wide aperture, extreme focal lengths on zooms, lowlight, image edges, wide format sensors, etc? Traditional compromises no longer apply with DxO Optics Pro, photographers can now take full advantage of the possibilities their expensive digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras and lenses offer.
Dphoto.us have posted a test of the new 8 megapixel professional DSLR from Canon, specifically looking at image quality at the high ISO speeds of 1600 and 3200. They look pretty amazing to me…
“I took the 1D Mark II for a spin at Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians, AAA affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. When shooting at Victory Field at night, common practice is to try your best to get your shots in at dusk. Noise levels, even on the 1D were generally not adequate to get good quality shots. Well, the Canon 1D Mark II has changed all that. This camera offers new opportunities for low light photographers. The results were astounding and beyond my expectations.”
Website: Dphoto.us - Canon 1D Mark II Sports High ISO Impressions
Breeze Systems Press Release 30/04/04
BreezeBrowser v2.9 adds support for the new Canon EOS-1D Mark II and Sony DSC-F828
30 April 2004: Breeze Systems today released BreezeBrowser v2.9. Canon EOS-1D Mark II, Canon PowerShot Pro1, Sony DSC-F828 and Nikon D70 owners can use this popular workflow tool to view both raw and JPEG images. BreezeBrowser v2.9 now displays Paint Shop Pro files and introduces raw conversion for the Nikon D70, Pentax *ist D, Minolta DiMAGE 7i, A1 and A2 and Olympus E-1, C5050WZ, C5060WZ, C8080WZ cameras.
The Slovenian website eFotoGrafija have posted a test of the new 8 megapixel professional DSLR from Canon, the EOS 1D Mark II. It’s well worth a look even if you can’t speak Slovenian and even if you can’t afford the hefty price-tag of Canon’s new DSLR. The ISO 3200 shots at the bottom of the page look amazing for such a high ISO speed.
In May Phase One will launch three new versions of C1 RAW workflow software for Mac and PC: PRO, SE and LE. In addition to a series of new features (described in C1 NEWS no. 15) new camera support has now been included:
PRO
Canon 1D Mark II
Nikon D2H
Nikon D1H
Nikon D1X (New: Mac)
Nikon D100 (New: Mac)
Nikon D70
Fuji S2
Olympus E1
Olympus E10
Olympus E20
Pentax *istD
SE
Canon 1D Mark II
Nikon D2H
Nikon D1H
Nikon D1X (New: Mac)
Nikon D100 (New: Mac)
Nikon D70
Fuji S2
Olympus E1
Olympus E10
Olympus E20
Pentax *istD
LE
Nikon D70
Olympus E1
Olympus E10
Olympus E20
Pentax *istD
From May C1 Rebel will be discontinued as a stand-alone product. The PRO, SE and LE versions all support the Canon 300D and existing Rebel users can upgrade to any of these versions.
Registered C1 Rebel v 1.0 users who were expecting a free upgrade to C1 Rebel v. 2.0 will receive an email about future upgrade opportunities in connection with the May launch.
Breeze Systems Press Release 22/04/04
Downloader Pro 1.3 adds support for Canon EOS-1D Mark II and Sony DSC-F828 cameras
22nd April 2004: Breeze Systems today released Downloader Pro 1.3. This simple but powerful tool enables photographers to transfer images to a PC at the touch of a button, renaming and storing them with file and directories names chosen by the user. It includes sophisticated handling of IPTC data, automatic lossless rotation of JPEGs and support for downloading from card readers and portable hard drives.
The new release allows users to :
- View thumbnails of images to be downloaded
- Gain even greater control when automatically sorting images as they are downloaded
- Use the camera model name mapping function to give meaningful names identifying the camera used to take pictures e.g. when different members of the family have their own camera this function can be used to download images to separate directories e.g. D:PhotosJohnsPro1, D:PhotosSuesD70
- Simplify workflow by automating the creation of sets of related directories for each download directory e.g. Vacation2004originals, Vacation2004working, Vacation2004final (using the new Directory Maker plug-in)
- Download raw images from Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Minolta, Fuji, Pentax and Sony cameras and use shooting data for directory and image naming. Supported cameras include the new Canon EOS-1D Mark II, Canon PowerShot Pro1, Nikon D70, Minolta DiMAGE A2, Olympus C8080WZ and Sony DSC-F828
- Play WAV or AVI files
Downloader Pro has been developed by Breeze Systems whose products include BreezeBrowser, DSLR Remote Pro and PSRemote. Downloader Pro runs on Windows and costs US $29.95. It is available on a 30 day free trial from Breeze Systems’ website www.breezesys.com.
Imaging Resource have posted a gallery of sample images taken with the new 8 megapixel professional DSLR from Canon, the EOS 1D Mark II, ahead of their full review.
“The results look very nice: Great color, low image noise, very good tonality. All the images had the characteristic Canon softness to them, (I think) the result of very conservative in-camera sharpening. My uncertainty about the sharpness is because the only lens I have to shoot with the 1DMII currently is a 16-35mm zoom.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Canon EOS 1D Mark II Sample Images
Canon USA Press Release 09/02/04
CANON’S NEW EOS ELAN 7N/7NE 35MM SLR CAMERAS SAVE THE BEST AND IMPROVE THE REST
LAS VEGAS (PMA, BOOTH # E11), Feb. 9, 2004 - Canon launched its new flagship advanced amateur 35mm SLR system - the EOS ELAN 7N and EOS ELAN 7NE 35mm SLR cameras. Designed to be the fastest, most responsive, innovative and intuitive cameras in their class, the new EOS ELAN 7N and EOS ELAN 7NE cameras replace the popular EOS ELAN 7 and 7E models (the ELAN 7NE model retaining the ELAN 7E?s popular Eye Controlled Focus option) and feature an autofocus system that is the fastest in its class, according to a Canon Inc. survey.
“With an ever present eye on technological advancements and our standard attention to detail, Canon has ensured that the EOS ELAN line of 35mm SLR cameras remain ‘state-of-the-science’ for discerning photo enthusiasts,” 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). “The advancements and upgrades that we have built in to the new EOS ELAN 7N and EOS ELAN 7NE models improve the cameras’ high quality output, facilitate the photo experience for our users, and enhance the cameras’ already enviable reputation in the photographic community.”
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.”
DO Labs Press Release 30/01/04
Breakthrough Software Application for Digital SLR Camera Users
Eliminates Blur, Distortion, Chromatic Aberration And Vignetting
Las Vegas, NV (February 12, 2004) ? DO Labs, a software company focused on research in image processing to enhance image quality, today announces DxO Optics Pro, a revolutionary software solution designed for professional and expert photographers. DxO Optics Pro delivers genuine and perceptible quality improvements by automatically correcting images for:
- Distortion
- Chromatic aberrations
- Vignetting
- Blur (lack of perceived sharpness)
“Isn’t it frustrating that the more you pay for high-end digital cameras or lenses, the more you feel their limitations?” asks Jerome Meniere, CEO of DO Labs. “The brighter a lens, the softer it is wide open, the wider the range of a zoom lens, the greater the distortion, the higher resolution the sensor is, the more visible chromatic aberration becomes. DxO Optics PRO will help demanding photographers get the best possible image quality from their equipment, at any settings”
“DxO Optics Pro can be thought of as a ‘software corrective lens’ for your DSLR,” explains Dr. Guichard, DO Labs? Chief Scientist. “We have created objective, laboratory-grade precise mathematical models of each fault, and developed fully automatic algorithms to remedy them”.
Canon Press Release 29/01/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 29th January, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, sets new standards in professional photography with the announcement of the EOS 1D Mark II. Combining formidable speed and exceptional resolution, the EOS 1D Mark II delivers approx. 8.5 frames per second at 8.2 Megapixels, taking over from Canon’s EOS-1D as the most powerful D-SLR camera in the world.
Canon has integrated three new technologies to deliver the EOS 1D Mark II’s high-speed / high-resolution combination: Canon’s next generation DIGIC II processor, a new CMOS sensor, and a new extra large buffer system. These technologies work in concert to deliver 40 frame bursts at 8.5 fps in JPEG, or 20 frame bursts in RAW mode. This high level of performance can be achieved in either Single Shot AF or AI Servo AF mode.
“With commanding speed and phenomenal image quality, the EOS 1D Mark II sets a new performance benchmark for sports and news photographers,” says Mr. Komatsuzaki, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “With nearly double the resolution of the EOS-1D, the EOS 1D Mark II also opens the digital SLR realm to the areas of fashion, nature and event photography”.
Canon Press Release 29/01/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 29 January 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the DVK-E2. Designed to work with the EOS-1Ds and new EOS-1D Mark II D-SLR cameras, the DVK-E2 provides the facility to prove that images taken with the EOS-1D Mark II have not been altered, tampered with or manipulated in any way. The DVK-E2 is the successor to Canon’s DVK-E1 and will work with both the EOS-1Ds and the EOS-1D Mark II.
Recent well-publicised cases involving image-tampering by news agencies have identified a strong need for a system capable of verifying the originality of digital photographs. Without such a kit it is impossible for an agency to identify whether or not a given image has been enhanced or manipulated.
ISO certification
With the capacity to detect the slightest (single bit) discrepancy, the DVK-E2 kit is expected to be popular amongst law enforcement, insurance, news and other agencies that have a need to verify the legitimacy of digital images. Canon is applying for ISO 15408 certification (evaluation criteria for IT security) for the Data Verification Kit to further validate its application. The acquisition of ISO 15408 certification will give international recognition to the originality of images shot with the EOS-1D Mark II or EOS-1Ds whilst in data verification mode.
How it works
The kit consists of a dedicated SM (secure mobile) card reader/writer and verification software. When the appropriate function (Personal Function 31) on the EOS-1D Mark II or EOS-1Ds is activated, a code based on the image contents is generated and appended to the image. When the image is viewed, the data verification software determines the code for the image and compares it with the attached code. If the image contents have been manipulated in any way, the codes will not match and the image cannot be verified as the original.
Compact and easy to use
The SM cards used with the kit are the same size as an SD card. The tiny SM card reader/writer is barely bigger than the cards it takes. It draws the power it requires from the USB port of the computer to which it is connected. The software is Windows 2000/XP compatible. Up to 100 images can be evaluated simultaneously, simply by selecting the images and clicking ‘Verify’.
The kit supports English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Chinese languages.
Phase One have released a new version of their popular RAW conversion software, Capture One. The new Special Edition is available now for purchase for $199 (after Dec 31 - $249) at www.pictureflow.com. This includes a free camera profile from Etcetera.cc (by Magne Nilsen). Capture One SE is positioned between Capture One LE (Light Edition) and Capture One, which is the full version.
Website: www.pictureflow.com
Phase One Press Release 19/12/03
New C1 “Special Edition” RAW conversion software breaks price barrier for high-end digital SLR shooters for Mac and Windows
- New C1 SE RAW Workflow software announced at $249 with full “Pro” camera support; special introductory pricing now available on C1 SE for $199 until end of year -
NORTHPORT, NY, December 19, 2003 - Phase One, the world leader in professional digital imaging camera backs and software, is pleased to announce C1 Special Edition (SE) RAW Workflow software, the latest version in the C1 DSLR line of RAW Workflow Solutions which is being rolled-out today.
The extensive feature set of the new C1 SE RAW Workflow software is based on the C1 LE (Limited Edition) version, with the exception of the RAW conversion simultaneous batch limit being raised to 100 images (from 20 in LE) and the addition of the full camera support previously available only in the C1 PRO version. On the Mac platform, RAW conversion support is provided for the full line of Canon digital SLR?s (1Ds, 1D, 10D, 300D, D30 and D60). On the Windows platform, the Nikon D1X and D100 are also supported, in addition to the full Canon DSLR lineup. All C1 versions, including the new C1 SE, provide unlimited batch processing by using the Quick Proof Export function which converts RAW files into high-quality proofs in approximately three (3) seconds each (depending on computer configuration).
To celebrate the release of C1 SE, special pre-release pricing of $199 is now available from the three authorized C1 web sites: www.c1dslr.com, www.pictureflow.com (US) and www.pixource.com (Asia).
In this interview, given just days before the launch of the EOS 300D, Alessandro Stanzani talks about the EOS 300D, its role in changing the face of photography and Canon?s passion for the SLR.
Why is Canon suddenly placing so much emphasis on SLRs?
SLR is Canon?s heritage. EOS is our heart; SLR is our story. We are number one in SLRs around the world. In Europe we have a 40% share of the SLR market. And the future of SLR is digital. As leader, our mission is to be at the vanguard of the global shift to digital. Already most major news agencies are specifying the professional series EOS 1D for their photographers. The EOS 300D is the best proof Canon can give to the market that the age of digital SLR has arrived.
What is so important about the EOS 300D?
Canon is also the world leader in photography. The EOS 300D carries this leadership forward by making available, for the very first time, high-end digital SLR technology at an affordable price. History will remember the launch of the EOS 300D as the point in time when the imaging market shifted irrevocably from analogue to digital.
What are Canon?s expectations for digital SLR growth?
Canon anticipates the market for digital SLRs to grow between 400% and 500% in 2003, over 2002. This market will increase 10 times from 2002 to 2005. Canon expects to have a 50% share of this market.
Canon has said this is the most significant camera since the AE1. How so?
The AE-1 was the world?s first camera with an embedded microcomputer. But what did that mean? There were other cameras available at the time capable of doing what the AE-1 could do. The critical point of this development was that it allowed for the production of a low-cost camera with high-end features. This sparked an SLR revolution. There are hundreds of thousands of people across Europe waiting for an affordable digital SLR. Either they are using film SLR, or they understand the benefits of SLR photography. Maybe they remember the AE1. Until today their only chance of digital SLR ownership has been to purchase a professional or semi-professional camera, which for most people is simply not affordable. The EOS 300D changes all that. It will spark enormous growth, opening up the market not only to keen amateur photographers, but to the masses. The EOS 300D is about to trigger the next SLR revolution.
Why has Canon waited until now to declare that this is the time to convert to digital?
Photography used to be tightly limited. Shoot a roll of film, take it to the photo store and pick up the prints some time later. For 99% of people, this is what photography was. Only professionals and dedicated enthusiasts had the time and resources to truly explore their creativity.
Now we are witnessing a convergence of services, products and technologies that is putting choice and creativity into the hands of consumers. It is not just about digital cameras now having the quality to compete with film. Consumers can produce lab-quality prints at home by connecting their camera directly to affordable, high quality photo-printers. They can use web services ? such as our CiG web portal for Canon customers ? to store and share albums and make online orders for home-delivered prints. And as for dropping off rolls of film to the lab, photographs to be printed can now be left on flash cards or Microdrives and dropped off to an ever-expanding base of digital print retailers.
Alongside that, we are witnessing a huge shift in consumer behaviour. Consumers with digital cameras are taking five times as many photographs as they used to. They are experimenting with software to edit, manipulate and enhance their photographs. They are expressing their imagination. So the digital world is removing the limits to creativity by opening up entirely new possibilities.
The final ingredient in the mix is camera affordability. Sales of digital compacts show they are already at a realistic price point. The EOS 300D price now brings digital SLR into the picture.
Why has Canon chosen to stick with the CMOS sensor?
The Canon CMOS sensor is a complete Canon development and considerable R&D resource has been invested into perfecting it. Awards won by our current product line-up would suggest our efforts have been well directed. Given that it now represents the current image quality benchmark against which other sensors are compared, it makes good sense for us to have chosen CMOS.
Is Canon committed to sticking with CMOS ahead of CCD technology?
Canon?s approach has always been to select the most appropriate technology for the product under consideration. In the case of the EOS 300D, CMOS was chosen simply because it is the most suitable sensor technology to enable us to introduce consumers to digital SLR photography.
What is the difference between the CMOS sensor found in the EOS 10D and the EOS 300D?
The CMOS sensor found in the EOS 300D is similar to that found in the EOS 10D. The manufacturing process is slightly different, but the quality output between the two devices is essentially the same. The three-layer optical low pass filter and IR cut filter are identical to those found on the EOS 10D, where they have proven highly effective.
Why does the EOS 300D have an APS-C sensor instead of full frame?
The APS-C sensor has some advantages, which made it the obvious choice for the EOS 300D. The key has been the possibility to bring professional quality digital SLR photography to the consumer price point of the EOS 300D.
Does Canon have a full-frame consumer digital SLR in the wings?
No. The EOS 1Ds has a 35mm sensor but this is a camera which suits the highly specialised requirements of a very select group of professional photographers. The strategy for Canon is to design cameras to suit our customer?s needs. So what does full frame really mean? With 6.3 million pixels, the EOS 300D sensor has a resolution which, in most situations, would meet the needs of many professional photographers. At the same time, this sensor size has allowed us to meet our design objective of putting high-end technology into the hands of the consumer. From a technical perspective, putting a 35mm sensor into the EOS 300D would, in most cases, give no advantage to our customers. Yet in doing so we would force the price well out of our target range.
Is the EF-S lens the start of a new EF-S series?
The short back focus system of the EOS 300D provided a route for Canon to develop the EF?S 18?55mm - a high performance, low weight, short length, cost effective standard zoom lens for EOS 300D customers. This lens only fits the EOS 300D but, as with all EOS cameras, the EOS 300D fits every lens in the EF range. So when the time comes for EOS 300D customers to consider their next lens, they will share the advantage of every other EOS user by having the whole range of over 60 EF lenses to choose from. This particular EF-S lens is therefore seen as a specialised lens within the EF range. It is the EF range to which we are committed and to which Canon continues to invest substantial development resource.
Canon has recently made a lot of noise about the success of DIGIC. Is the DIGIC processor in the EOS 300D the same as that found in other Canon cameras?
Yes, it is the same chip. The DIGIC processor has a number of functional blocks within it. Different functional blocks are used, depending on what type of camera we are dealing with. For example, the focusing systems between compact cameras and SLRs are fundamentally different. If you look at the digital SLR body, it has a sensor dedicated for focus, a sensor dedicated to exposure metering and then the image sensor, all on different optical paths. A digital compact camera has all those three functions integrated into the main imaging sensor. So given the integral role DIGIC plays in the camera?s image processing, it stands to reason that the way in which DIGIC is used will depend largely on what type of camera is employed.
The market seems intent on using pixel count as a means of measuring a camera?s worth. Is having the highest number of pixels important to Canon?
Pixel count is of course crucial to Canon; it is the parameter on which many users first focus when comparing models. But as numerous specialised and reliable magazines have proved, it is just one of many factors influencing image quality. Lens quality is obviously critical and image processing functions play a crucial role ? hence Canon?s massive investment in lens technologies and DIGIC processors.
Winning the pixel race can have very little to do with building quality cameras that return exceptional images, and customers are beginning to understand this.
What does Canon see as the competition to the EOS 300D?
There is no directly competing digital SLR at this price point for consumers. Competitors for the EOS 300D therefore come from outside its field, either in terms of price or performance. In terms of performance, the EOS 300D is up against digital SLRs that are currently more than twice its price. In terms of price, the EOS 300D offers potential purchasers of digital compact cameras a choice; either digital SLR or advanced digital compact camera.
In an interview you gave in February you predicted that sales of digital still cameras would double this year. How has the market performed against that prediction?
The market continues to be ahead of that projection. Canon expects that the introduction of the EOS 300D will trigger 500% growth in the digital SLR market in 2003, over 2002. The research we now have shows that across the whole array of consumer products, digital cameras are one of the three most desirable products; the other two being DVD players and new generation mobile phones.
In that same interview you predicted that unit sales of digital cameras will outstrip that of analogue. Has that yet happened?
Yes. Shipment of digital cameras has already over-taken that of analogue; in fact this happened at the beginning of 2003. In terms of market value, digital overtook analogue two years ago. The world-wide install base of digital cameras was predicted to overtake that of analogues by 2010 but we now expect this to happen earlier.
Will Canon continue to develop analogue SLR products?
Yes. There will continue to be demand for analogue SLRs and we will continue to develop products to meet that demand. This is clearly the turning point where the market will make a significant shift to digital, but we recognise there is enormous value in continuing to support the analogue market.
A complaint of Canon digital cameras is that Canon is often unable to keep supply up to meet demand. How does Canon intend to meet anticipated demand for the EOS 300D?
Once the market is aware, there is no doubt there will be enormous demand for the EOS 300D, and we have stocked accordingly. What Canon wants to do is shorten the time between availability and market awareness. Waiting for reviews, articles and information to be published can take two or three months. But we want everybody to know right now that this is the product, and this is the price. This is why there is so much focus on the launch.
Olympus has proposed a common lens mount. Does Canon have any plans to join the program?
The Kodak and the Olympus lens mount is a completely new and largely unproven development and as yet there are very few lenses which work with this system. With over 60 proven lenses available to our EOS customers in the EF lens line up, we have no plan to join the common lens mount proposed by Olympus.
CNET have reviewed Canon’s flagship digital SLR, the ?7,000 EOS-1Ds, awarding it a rating of 9.1 out of 10.
Website: CNET - Canon EOS-1Ds Review
“Canon’s latest foray into the high-end photography market, the EOS 1Ds, may be the most capable digital SLR sold today. With an eye-popping 11.1-megapixel effective resolution, this model trounces its 3- and 6-megapixel EOS ancestors. Based on Canon’s 1V 35mm-film-camera body, the 1Ds should appeal to pros and other serious shooters who have been eagerly anticipating this level of quality and flexibility in a digital camera. The downside: This Canon is priced according to its feature set.”