Photoxels

Nikon Firmware Updates (February 18, 2020) for Mirrorless Cameras Z 7 and Z 6 Full-frame (Ver. 3.00) and Z 50 APS-C / DX-format (Ver. 1.10): New Features & Improvements

2020-02-18

Nikon has posted Z Series Firmware 3.0 which includes the following important features and improvements to the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7 full-frame mirrorless cameras:

Nikon’s Animal Detection AF, available as part of the Firmware 3.0 upgrade for Z 7 and Z 6: Image Courtesy of Nikon

Animal Detection AF: Just like Eye AF for humans, Animal Detection AF will reliably lock focus on a dog or cat’s eye.

Nikon: Improved Focus Tracking Operation: Image Courtesy of Nikon

Improved Focus Tracking Operation: Turning on Subject tracking is now easy and convenient: simply press the shutter-release button halfway or hold down the AF-ON button while shooting stills in AF-C mode. Release either button and the focus point returns to its previous setting. Additionally, subject tracking can be assigned to a camera or lens Fn button for convenient tracking while using the EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) in Auto-Area AF mode.
Support for New NIKKOR Z Lenses: Firmware 3.0 adds support for advanced NIKKOR Z lens controls like those found on the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S. Two Lens Fn buttons can be assigned, the focus limit switch can be employed and autofocusing with manual override (M/A mode) is fully supported.

Nikon Z 7 with NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S

Expanded Support for CFexpress: In addition to Sony® CFexpress memory cards, Type B CFexpress cards made by ProGrade® and Lexar® are now also supported.

The following video presents Animal-detection AF for Z 7 and Z 6 Mirrorless Cameras:
“Pet photography just got easier. Version 3.00 firmware update for the #Z7 and #Z6 adds Animal-detection AF to Face/eye detection AF, recognising the eyes and faces of dogs and cats for enhanced focus.“

The video is convincing enough, especially the one showing the Eye AF locking “doggedly” on a shaggy black dog with black eyes.

Image grab from video above

Additionally, Nikon has also released Firmware 1.1 for Nikon Z 50 for the following changes:

Nikon Z 50

Movie footage shot in self-portrait mode is now filmed using AF-F (full-time autofocus), regardless of the option selected for autofocus mode.
Added support for the focus limit switch available on certain Z mount lenses (as of February 12, 2020, only the NIKKOR Z 70–200mm f/2.8 VR S). The lens Fn2 button is not supported.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S

To download the updates and for other important info: (more…)

Press Releases

CP+ Camera and Photo Imaging Show 2020 Cancelled

2020-02-17

by photoxels

CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) President Masaya Maeda announced the cancellation of CP+ 2020 amid novel coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns. He cites the lack of effective treatment and containment measures, and the priority on the health and safety of an expected 70,000 visitors and exhibitors. There are no details concerning refunds for purchased tickets.

PRESS RELEASE

February 14, 2020

Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA)

Cancellation of CP+ (Camera and Photo Imaging Show) 2020

Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA; President: Masaya Maeda) here announces the cancellation of CP+2020. Given there is no effective treatment or containment measures to deal with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), we have chosen to cancel CP+2020 because we put top priority on the health and safety of visitors and exhibitors. The event was originally scheduled to be held over 4 days at PACIFICO Yokohama from February 27.

CP+is a trade show for consumers. The main feature of this show is that visitors can actually handle the newest camera and related equipment to get a feel for how they operate. The event attracts around 70,000 unspecified visitors and therefore we cannot completely eliminate the risk of infection. The CIPA believes it is important to avoid such risk at all cost. While it is truly regrettable, we have decided to cancel this year’s show.

We ask for your cooperation and understanding concerning this matter.

Cameras • Nikon

New Flagship NIKON D6 Full-Frame DSLR Targets Professional Sports Photographers and Press Agencies: Promises Its Most Powerful AF Sytem, Faster Modern Workflow, Accelerated Transfer Capabilities, 20.8 MP, 4K UHD, 14 FPS Continuous Shooting, 100-102,400 ISO, 60 fps Stills in Video Mode, Illuminated Controls, Weather Sealing, Dual Card Slots, Long Exposures Made Easy, Focus Stacking, Low-Light Shooting to -4.5 EV, 20 Creative Filters

2020-02-12

by photoxels

This is an update to the previous blog, Nikon D6, the Most Advanced Professional DSLR to Date, and AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR Telephoto Zoom, a Professional Sports & Action Lens: Both are Currently Being Developed.

The following video presents D6 Product Tour:
“Nail the moment with crisp, sharp images and deliver with speed. The D6’s strong combination of powerful new AF system, speedier workflow, acclaimed image quality and absolute reliability is everything you need to get the winning shot.“

Right on time for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics (Jul 24 – Aug 9), Nikon has announced its flagship D6, a full-frame DSLR with a new AF system (which it calls its most powerful ever), even faster workflow and a better interface for transmitting images — all geared to make it easier for professional sports photographers to get more focused shots and to provide more rapid data transfer to the press agencies they supply pictures to.

Nikon D6: Image Courtesy of Nikon

The following video presents D6 First Look:
“Learn from Nikon Canada’s Mark Cruz about the D6 and how it will help the working professional with its completely re-designed 105 point AF system and improved in-camera workflow.“

PRESS RELEASE

February 11, 2020

DECISIVE POWER. FASTER WORKFLOW. ABSOLUTE RELIABILITY: THE NEW NIKON D6 GIVES PROFESSIONALS THE EDGE WHEN IT MATTERS MOST

Nikon D6: Image Courtesy of Nikon

The New Nikon D6 Offers the Most Powerful AF System in Nikon’s History, and Continues the Brand Legacy of Professional Cameras That Deliver Connectivity, Dependability and Streamlined Workflow

Nikon D6: Image Courtesy of Nikon

MISSISSAUGA, ON – Today, Nikon Canada Inc. has unveiled the D6, a new professional-grade DSLR built for those in need of extreme reliability and ultimate performance. The D6 addresses the needs of professionals and press agencies, and is faster and more powerful than ever before. Offering the most powerful AF system in Nikon’s history, this flagship DSLR camera delivers crucial improvements to modern workflow while also accelerating file transfer capabilities. Promising unparalleled low-light performance, powerful agility, advanced 4K UHD multimedia capabilities and a mechanical shutter frame rate boosted to a staggering 14fps, the D6 will redefine the way pros work.

Nikon D6: Image Courtesy of Nikon

(more…)

Lenses • Nikon

NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR Zoom (with 5.0 Stops of Built-in Optical Vibration Reduction) for Travel Photography; and Ultra-wide NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S for Landscape, Architecture & Astrophotography, and for Creators Requiring Cinematic Video Capture: Compact & Lightweight Z Mount Lenses with Weather Sealing to Combat Dust & Moisture, for Nikon’s Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

2020-02-12

by photoxels

Nikon adds two versatile lenses for its Z Series full-frame mirrorless cameras.

The NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR is a relatively compact and lightweight 8.3x optical zoom lens perfect for travel photography. It is drip and dust resistant and incorporates 5-stops optical image stabilization (Vibration Reduction).

NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR: Image Courtesy of Nikon

The following video presents First Impressions of the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR:
“Travel photographer Céline Jentzsch brought the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR full frame lens to capture the rhythm of Zanzibar. Light, compact, incredible sharpness, beautiful bokeh and fantastic zoom capabilities– all in one lens. Watch to see her first impressions of the newest NIKKOR Z lens in our mirrorless lineup.“

The NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S is an ultra-wide angle prime lens perfect for landscape, architecture or astro photography. It is weather-sealed to combat dust and moisture, and a stepping motor allows for fast and quiet AF and suppressed focus breathing to help achieve cinematic video capture.

NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR: Image Courtesy of Nikon

The following video presents First Impressions of the NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S:
“When Taylor Gray went to the Atacama Desert in Chile, he brought the new NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S to test out. Home to some of the cleanest, darkest skies he captured the scenes in breathtaking detail with our new 20mm prime lens. Watch to see why Taylor says, “The sharpness, clarity and detail captured with this NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S lens is unparalleled to any other lens I’ve shot with before. It’s very, very impressive.”

Explore the ultra-wide perspective of the 20mm prime lens, equipped with stunning speed, bokeh and low-light capabilities of an f/1.8 maximum aperture lens:…”

Since both its full-frame (FX-format) and APS-C (DX-format) Z Series mirrorless cameras use the exact same Z Mount, the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR and NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S can also be used on a DX-format Z Series camera body (or used in DX crop mode on an FX-format Z Series camera body): the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR then has a 30-300mm equivalent reach and the NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S has a 30mm equivalent focal length.

The 200mm reach of the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR can be effectively extended to 300mm when used on a DX camera like the Z 50 or by setting your FX camera to DX crop mode: Images Courtesy of Nikon

PRESS RELEASE

February 11, 2020

THE NIKKOR Z EXPANSION CONTINUES: NIKON ANNOUNCES TWO NEW Z MOUNT OPTICS WITH THE ADDITION OF THE VERSATILE NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR AND WIDE-ANGLE NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S LENSES

Built on the Superior Optical Design of the Z Mount, Nikon’s Latest NIKKOR Z Lenses are Remarkable Tools for Capturing Travel, Landscapes and Adventure

MISSISSAUGA, ON

NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR: Image Courtesy of Nikon

Today, Nikon Canada Inc. announced two new full frame lenses to the rapidly expanding NIKKOR Z lineup. With the addition of the versatile, lightweight NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR and the ultra-wide NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S, Nikon continues to demonstrate the superior optical capabilities of its NIKKOR Z lenses, made possible by the advanced technology of the revolutionary Z mount. The NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR boasts a broad 24-200mm zoom range with the power and versatility to make it a staple for travel and everyday photography. Meanwhile, the NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S expands the f/1.8 line of NIKKOR Z lenses, offering an extremely fast aperture and a vast field of view, ideal for enthusiasts and pros shooting landscapes, architecture or the night sky.

NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S: Image Courtesy of Nikon

NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR: Versatile Zoom, So Many Possibilities: (more…)

Cameras • Olympus

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Camera Conforms to Micro Four Thirds System Standard, for Professionals Requiring Portability: Compact & Lightweight, 20.4 MP Live MOS Sensor, World’s Most Effective 7.5 Shutter Speed Steps of Compensation With 5-axis Sync IS, Handheld 4K/Cinema 4K Video, New Starry Sky AF for Astrophotography, 60 fps AF/AE Lock Sequential Shooting, 50MP Handheld High-Res Shot, Tripod High Res Shot, 121-point All Cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF, Advanced Face/Eye Priority AF, AF Target Modes, Live ND, Pro Capture Mode, Dual Card Slots, Dust-/Splash-/Freeze-proof; Supports OM-Log400

2020-02-12

by photoxels

The following video presents Introducing: OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

Starry Sky AF, which is new for the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, is a feature that will revolutionize the world of astrophotography.

The following video presents E-M1 Mark III: Starry Sky AF:

The following silent video presents OM-D Movie – Comparison of Image Stabilisation:

PRESS RELEASE

OLYMPUS OM-D®E-M1 MARK III INTERCHANGEABLE LENS CAMERA

Delivering Stunning Image Quality, Superior Mobility And Absolute Reliability For Professional Photographers Everywhere

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., February 12, 2020 — Today Olympus debuts the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, scheduled to go on sale February 24, 2020. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a professional model built for superior mobility. This professional interchangeable lens camera conforms to the Micro Four Thirds^® System standard. It comes equipped with a new image processing engine, TruePic™ IX, enabling features such as 50MP Handheld High-Res Shot^[1]. Combined with the high image quality of M.Zuiko^® Digital lenses, this system fulfills the needs of professional photographers in any field, all in a compact, lightweight dustproof, splashproof, freezeproof magnesium alloy body for peace of mind when shooting in harsh environments.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is also equipped with a 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor for high-precision focusing

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III: Starry Sky AF delivers revolutionary autofocus performance for astrophotography

This reliable, compact and lightweight body offers the world’s most effective 7.5 shutter speed steps^[2] of compensation. The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is also equipped with a 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor for high-precision focusing. Starry Sky AF delivers revolutionary autofocus performance for astrophotography, and the Advanced Face / Eye Priority AF tracks and ensures the subject’s eye is continuously in focus, resulting in a crisp, clear portrait. This model is also equipped with versatile features that were popular on the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, such as 50MP Handheld High Res Shot, Live ND, Pro Capture mode, and handheld 4K video, thanks to its 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilization, designed to meet the demands of the professional photographer.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III: Advanced Face / Eye Priority AF tracks and ensures the subject’s eye is continuously in focus, resulting in a crisp, clear portrait

Compact and Lightweight with High Image Quality

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III: Image Stabilization: Images Courtesy of Olympus

By synchronizing the in-lens image stabilization of supported lenses^[3] with the in-body 5-axis image stabilization, this model achieves the world’s best 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation with 5-axis sync IS. Powerful image stabilization enables shooting handheld in dark locations and during super-telephoto photography for outstanding freedom in various scenarios without the need for a tripod. In-body image stabilization ensures image stabilization with all attached lenses, up to 7.0 shutter speed steps^[4] of compensation performance. (more…)

Cameras • Olympus

Olympus PEN E-PL10, a Sophisticated & Stylish Interchangeable Lens Camera: Compact & Lightweight, 4K 30p UHD Video, 3-Axis In-body Image Stabilization, 180-degree Flip-down LCD with Automatic Selfie Mode for Day or Night Shooting, e-Portrait for Brighter & Smoother Skin, Built-in Hidden Flash, Touch Menu Interface Includes Touch AF Shutter, Customizable Art Filters, Easy Wireless Sharing & Remote Control

2020-02-12

by photoxels

The following video presents Introducing: PEN E-PL10

PRESS RELEASE

TRANSFORM YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY WHILE EMBRACING CREATIVITY WITH THE OLYMPUS PEN^® E-PL10

A Compact and Sophisticated Interchangeable Lens Camera That You Can Take Everywhere

Olympus PEN E-PL10 (left to right): kuro 黒 (black), shiro白 (white), and mocha 茶 (brown

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., February 12, 2020 — Today Olympus America Inc. is pleased to introduce the newest addition to its PEN Lite series of Micro Four Thirds^® System standard interchangeable lens cameras to our region, the Olympus PEN E-PL10. Drawing from the classic style of the 1963 PEN-F, the E-PL10 features an attractive clean aesthetic, thoughtful design, packed with a TruePic™ VIII Image Processor, built-in pop-up flash, and a wide array of expressive photography functions. The compact, lightweight body is equipped with in-body Image Stabilization and a 180-degree flip-down LCD screen with step-by-step touch menu interface to guide the user as they capture beautiful photos in any situation.

Olympus PEN E-PL10: shiro白 (white)

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 delivers blur-free high image quality with a simple touch operation. It is packed with features that expand creative expressions, such as Selfie, Art Filters for impressive, artistic finishes, and offers compatibility with various interchangeable lenses. By using the built-in Wi-Fi^® or Bluetooth^® in conjunction with the Olympus Image Share (OI.Share®) smartphone app, the camera easily connects to a smartphone to transfer images and share them on social media. Tutorial videos are also available to learn photography techniques using OI.Share, making it the perfect interchangeable lens camera for the beginner photographer. The PEN E-PL10 packs versatile features in a simple, sophisticated, compact design, available in three trendy colors that you can take everywhere.

Olympus PEN E-PL10: shiro白 (white): Image Courtesy of Olympus

Stylish, Premium Finished Design with Hidden Flash

Olympus PEN E-PL10: Images Courtesy of Olympus

The E-PL10 is available in shiro白 (white), kuro 黒 (black), and 茶 (mocha). Each are designed with premium materials and offer chic finishes, including leather grain, brushed aluminum, a grip to make it easy to hold, large mode dial, and built-in hidden flash, turning this camera into a fashion accessory. When paired with the M.Zuiko^® Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ wide-angle zoom lens, it is highly portable, and lighter than a 16 oz. bottle of water.

Olympus PEN E-PL10: shiro白 (white)

Olympus PEN E-PL10: shiro白 (white): Image Courtesy of Olympus

Intuitive Guides with Simple Touchscreen (more…)

Lenses • Olympus

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO is the World’s Most Compact, Lightweight Medium Range Zoom PRO Lens (35mm equivalent: 24-90): Fast AF; Macro Shooting With a Maximum Magnification of 0.5x (35mm equivalent) Across Entire Zoom Range; Macro Expressions Include Wide Angle (12mm), Telephoto (45mm), Focus Stacking; Suppresses Peripheral Light Loss to Get High Resolution to the Edges of Images; Dust-/Splash-/ Freeze-proof (-10°C)

2020-02-12

by photoxels

This is an update to the previous blog, Olympus M.Zuiko Digital Lens Roadmap (as of November 27, 2019) Includes Three-Model Updates: Ultra-compact M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO, Super-telephoto M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS and a PRO Series Telephoto Zoom.

The following silent video presents Fixed Wide-aperture Across the Entire Zoom Range – Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO:

Olympus’ Tip:

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO Lens + Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, Silver, Camera

Pair the new M.Zuiko 12-45mm F4.0 PRO lens with the recently announced Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III to create the ultimate travel combination.

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO Lens + Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, Silver, Camera

As Olympus’ smallest weathersealed combination to date^[5], at just 670 g/23.6 oz., you are able to travel with ease and shoot on-the-go, no matter the environment.

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO Lens + Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera: Image Courtesy of Olympus

PRESS RELEASE

THE ULTIMATE COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT, HIGH-RESOLUTION M.ZUIKO® PRO LENS

M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO (35mm equivalent: 24-90)

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., February 12, 2020 —Olympus is pleased to announce the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO^[1] lens, scheduled for availability April 7, 2020. This high-performance medium range zoom PRO lens conforms to the Micro Four Thirds^® System standard and features superb optical performance at all focal lengths, while being the world’s most compact, lightweight model^[2]. The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 joins the M.Zuiko PRO category of lenses, possessing dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (-10°C) performance that delivers excellent image quality and peace of mind even when shooting in the most severe environments. This lens delivers superb resolution to the edge of the frame across the entire zoom range, making the most of the appealing aspects of the Micro Four Thirds System standard. It features supreme macro capabilities with a maximum magnification of 0.5x (35mm equivalent) across the entire zoom range, making it an anytime, anywhere, all-around lens. When paired with the Olympus OM-D® E-M5 Mark III, this lens delivers high resolution and amazing portability to conveniently carry in a small bag.

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO Lens + Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, Silver, Camera: ISO200: Left Image 1/1.6sec, f=12mm; Right Image 1/2sec, f=45mm: Images Courtesy of Olympus

(more…)

Epson • Sponsored Post

Epson Canada Presents FastFoto FF-680W High Speed Photo Scanning System: “Revisit your family history with Epson this Family Day”

2020-02-08

by photoxels

Family Day in Canada is February 17, 2020.

The following video presents Epson FastFoto FF-680W | See the Wireless Photo Scanner In Action:
“With the Epson FastFoto FF-680W scanner, you can quickly organize your entire photographic history. Easily colour correct and restore photos that have faded or are in poor condition. And, most importantly, share your memories with friends and family using your favorite social media applications such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and more.“

This is a Sponsored Post

Epson Canada

Presents

“Revisit your family history with Epson this Family Day”

“We often forget to pass down stories or share family memories. The younger generation may not be able to spot their great-grandfather in an old photo or know what their mom’s childhood home looked like. Memories can easily be lost in time but with the Epson FastFoto FF-680W High Speed Photo Scanning System ($799.99 MSRP), the world’s fastest personal photo scanner from Epson¹, they don’t have to be. This Family Day, dust off your box of old photos, revisit your treasured memories as a family and preserve them for years to come.

Epson FastFoto FF-680W High Speed Photo Scanning System

The Epson FastFoto has the ability to scan as quickly as one photo per second², making it possible to digitize thousands of photos in just minutes. Equipped to scan and restore even the most fragile photos, letters and documents, the FastFoto scanner lets you bring your photos back to life and upload them to Dropbox or Google Drive for easy sharing.

Epson FastFoto FF-680W High Speed Photo Scanning System: Image Courtesy of Epson

Whether you’re sending photos to relatives across the country or adding the pictures to your family tree, this Family Day is about sharing memories with those you love.” (more…)