Photoxels

Nikon Z 9 Sent to International Space Station

2024-02-07

International Space Station (ISS) astronauts will have the Nikon Z 9 full-frame mirrorless cameras to shoot with. (This is not the first full-frame mirrorless camera to make it to the ISS – the Sony A7S II is the first). Remarkably, the cameras are physically unmodified, though NASA asked Nikon engineers to create a custom dedicated firmware to expand noise reduction to faster shutter speeds; rework the file naming sequencing; optimize default settings and controls for when the camera is enclosed in a protective covering for exterior missions; and simplify the astronaut’s workflow via changes to the in-camera FTP and transfer protocol.

In total, Nikon sent 13 Z 9s, 15 FTZ II adapters, and more than 15 NIKKOR Z lenses, including super-telephoto and macro lenses to the ISS.

PRESS RELEASE

NIKON Z 9 GOES TO SPACE: SPACE STATION ASTRONAUTS RECEIVE NIKON’S FLAGSHIP FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERA

NASA Receives Multiple Physically Unmodified Z 9 Cameras to Conduct Research and Document Life Aboard the International Space Station

Melville, NY – February 6, 2024. The Nikon Z 9 was launched to the International Space Station in January, where it will help NASA astronauts capture the iconic and breathtaking images of Earth and space in stellar quality and clarity. This is a landmark achievement for the Nikon Z series, as this will be Nikon’s first mirrorless camera used by the space station crew.

Multiple Z 9 bodies along with an impressive selection of NIKKOR lenses have been sent to the orbiting laboratory on the 20th Northrop Grumman commercial resupply services mission for NASA. The Cygnus cargo spacecraft, carried on the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on January 30, 2024.

“Nikon firmly believes in NASA’s mission of space exploration and pioneering research, and we will continue to work closely with the space agency to make sure they are properly equipped,” said Naoki Onozato, President and CEO, Nikon Inc. “The brave crew have to withstand the rigors of space exploration, but we want to help to make sure they won’t have to worry about their camera equipment.”
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Firmware Updates • Nikon • Press Releases

Nikon Z 8 Firmware Upgrade Ver. 2.0 Adds Bird Detection, 180 MP Pixel Shift Shooting and Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control

2024-02-07

by photoxels

PRESS RELEASE

Nikon Releases First Major Firmware Upgrade Ver 2.0 for the Nikon Z 8

Nikon Also Releases Updated Free NX Tether Ver. 2.0 Utility Software to Seamlessly Support Professional Photographer and Videographer Workflow

February 6, 2024, MISSISSAUGA, ON – The critically acclaimed, editorially celebrated and award-winning Nikon Z 8 is getting even better. Today, Nikon announced the availability of the first major firmware update for the Z 8, Firmware Ver. 2.0. This free update adds multiple features and enhancements for still-image, video capture and improved workflow. Additionally, Nikon has also announced availability of the latest version of NX Tether, Nikon’s free tethering software for still and video professionals.

“The Nikon Z 8 has consistently provided top-notch features. With this latest update, we reaffirm our commitment to actively respond to customer feedback, aiming to exceed their expectations,” said Amanda Mohammed, Director of Sales and Marketing at Nikon Canada.
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Cameras • OM Digital Solutions

OM SYSTEM OM-1 II

2024-01-30

by photoxels

20.4MP 4/3″ Stacked BSI Live MOS Sensor
OLED EVF 5.76M dots 0.83x magnification
5-Axis 8.5-steps IBIS
4K/60P Video
Dual card UHS-II slots
Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weather Sealed (IP53)

QUICKFACT SHEET

Computational photography. The OM SYSTEM OM-1 II updates the OM SYSTEM OM-1 with some minor, yet practically useful, features that make the camera even better and faster. The hardware is basically the same with a few modifications: rubberized front and rear command dials and the addition of extra (double) internal buffer memory. This extra buffer in turn makes possible continuous shooting of up to 256 RAW images, blackout-free shooting at all the available shooting rates, a slight bump in the IBIS performance from 7EV to 8.5EV (due to algorithm changes), improved AF performance and accuracy, and computational Live GND (Graduated ND) filter effect.

Here, in tabular form, are the improvements in the OM-1 II:

Features	OM-1	OM-1 II
Front and rear dials	Plastic	Plastic, rubberized
IBIS	7EV	8.5EV
Blackout Free Live View	25-120 fps	25-120 fps, 12.5fps, 16fps
LiveND	ND2 to ND64	ND2 to ND128
Live GND	n/a	GND2, GND4, GND8
Highres Shooting	50MP Handheld, 80MP with tripod	50MP Handheld, 80MP with tripod, 14-bit RAW
AI Detection AF	Aircrafts, Birds, Bullet trains, Cats, Dogs, Formula cars, Helicopters, Motorcycles, Ralley cars, Standard trains, Steam locomotives	Aircrafts, Birds, Bullet trains, Cats, Dogs, Formula cars, Helicopters, Motorcycles, Ralley cars, Standard trains, Steam locomotives, Human
50fps RAW Burst	96 frames	256 frames
120fps RAW Burst	92 frames	213 frames

The OM-1 II is an expert-level/pro-level Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera for photography enthusiasts and pros and is especially suited for wildlife, macro, astro and landscape photography. It is beautifully designed and is fully featured with many professional-grade features, accessories and lenses. It features the same 20.4 MP Stacked BSI Live MOS Sensor as in the OM-1.

For those who shoot landscape or want more megapixels, it has a High Res Shot mode to shoot 50MP images handheld or 80MP images with the camera on a tripod. The OM-1 II adds the ability to capture more detailed photos in 14-bit RAW.

THe OM-1 II offers perhaps the best 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) in the industry and now, thanks to algorithm changes, it’s bumped up to 8.5 steps of compensation in-body and 8.5 steps in combination with compatible OIS lenses. It’s safe to leave the tripod at home.

Unlike many competitors that claim weather proof features in their cameras but always put a disclaimer in small prints, the OM-1 II features IP53-certified weather-sealing against dust and moisture. Not only is the OM-1 II dust and splash-proof, it is also freeze-proof down to -10°C (14°F). It’s a camera that is really tough enough to weather any situation you may be called to shoot in.

Though the body remains the same, a few changes have given the OM-1 II improved handling and feel: rubberized front and rear command dials now make turning the dials more positive, even when wearing winter gloves.
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Cameras • OM Digital Solutions

OM System OM-1 II Features Live Graduated ND and Improved AF, IBIS, Blackout-Free Shooting

2024-01-30

by photoxels

OM System has taken the OM-1 MFT (Micro Four Thirds) mirrorless camera and improved its firmware and software, plus added much more internal buffer memory.

The result is a camera that works even better:

Enhanced AI Subject Detection AF (Bird, Human, Pets, Cars, Aircrafts & Trains).
The best IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) at 8.5 stops.
More blackout-free shooting now at even slower burst rates (25-120fps, 12.5 fps and 16 fps).
Double the number of frames that can be shot at high frame rates (213 photos at 120 fps in RAW format) before the buffer fills up.
An industry first is LiveGND (Live Graduated ND filter) that simulates the use of a graduated neutral density filter.
LiveND is now at 7 stops.

Video specifications remain unchanged from the OM-1.

The OM-1 II is as rugged as the OM-1, featuring IP53-class splash & dustproof design coupled with a robust body built to withstand freezing temperatures down to -10°C.

The OM-1 Mark II (body only) will be available beginning in late February 2024 with a suggested retail price of $2,399.99 (US) and $3,199.99 (CAD). The OM-1 Mark II (kit), which includes the M. Zuiko Digital ED 12- 40mm F2.8 PRO II Lens, will be available at a suggested retail price of $2,999.99 (US) and $3,999.99.

OM System is running a couple of promotions:

Pre-order your OM-1 Mark II body or kit between January 30th and February 25th and you will receive on additional BLX-1 battery free.
Save $300 when you bundle the O-M1 Mark II with select M.Zuiko lenses.

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Cameras • Hasselblad

Hasselblad 907X & CFV 100C Is World’s Smallest 100MP Medium Format Digital Camera

2024-01-24

by photoxels

PRESS RELEASE

Hasselblad Unveils the 907X & CFV 100C: Enhancing Medium Format Photography with Versatility & Unmatched Image Quality

2024-1-24 – Hasselblad, a pioneer in medium format photography, introduces the 907X & CFV 100C, a fusion of modular design and advanced technologies that offer three distinctly different photographic abilities, presenting the most compatible Hasselblad 100-megapixel medium format camera to date. Building on its iconic design, the 907X & CFV 100C has been upgraded with a new 100-megapixel back-illuminated sensor, doubling the resolution of its predecessor, the 907X & CFV II 50C.

Hasselblad 907X & CFV 100C

A Modular Design. Three Applications.

The 907X Camera Body
The 907X & CFV 100C combine to create the smallest and most powerful medium format camera in the industry. This dynamic combination is compatible with all XCD, HC/HCD, and Xpan lenses, uniting high optical lenses to produce the best image straight out of the camera.
Hasselblad V System Film Cameras
The CFV 100C breathes new life into Hasselblad V System cameras, such as the 500 and 200 series. Photographers can use their beloved film camera with the powerful CFV 100C sensor to produce the same picture quality of the digital age while also providing the unique experience of shooting at waist level. The CFV 100C keeps a classic timeless in every sense of the word.
Technical Cameras
With the CFV 100C, technical film cameras will reap the benefits of its 100-megapixel sensor, helping photographers, museums, or institutions meet rigorous and precise photographic needs. The 3.2-inch touchscreen display and 2.36 million resolution, with its superior flexibility and colour richness, provide photographers with an easy-to-use experience and a cost-effective digital solution for a technical camera.

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