Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Super Telephoto Zoom
Nikon Canada Inc. has announced the availability of the new AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR super-telephoto zoom lens, a professional level FX-format lens that has been updated with the newest NIKKOR lens technologies including Nikon’s first ever built-in teleconverter and an advanced optical formula to enhance performance and reduce weight.
This is the first NIKKOR lens to include a built-in 1.4X teleconverter, allowing photographers to seamlessly swap to a 252mm-560mm1 (FXformat) focal range. The teleconverter is engaged at the flick of a switch, and is easily operated with a single finger while looking through the viewfinder. When used on the Nikon D500 and other DX-format DSLRs, the focal length is the equivalent of 270mm-600mm, (378mm-840mm with the teleconverter engaged).
The new AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is optimized for high-speed capture, and features an electromagnetic diaphragm, for smooth and consistent exposures while shooting highs peed bursts of images. The AF tracking algorithm controlling the motor drive has been enhanced to increase tracking performance of fast moving subjects. When using cameras equipped with Nikon’s advanced 153-point AF system (D5, D500, D850), the outer row of AF points are activated as cross-type sensors to significantly enhance the AF coverage throughout the frame.
The lens now uses a fluorite element, which contributes to improved balance while minimizing weight.
A new ball-bearing tripod collar ring provides a seamless transition from shooting horizontal to vertical composition. The VR mechanism offers a normal and sports mode, with up to four stops of compensation.
The lens construction includes the use of durable magnesium alloy for weight reduction, and the lens is sealed against dust and moisture. A fluorine coating is also used to help repel water droplets and dirt.
The optical formula of the lens features eight Extra Low Dispersion (ED) elements, doubling the amount of ED elements used by its predecessor, the NIKKOR 200-400mm. These lenses help to provide extremely sharp and detailed images and 4K video, and are ideally mated to high resolution Nikon DSLR cameras.
Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat is used to effectively suppress instances of ghosting and flare.
Price and Availability
The AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR will be available in March 2018 for a manufacturer suggested retail price of $15,549.95. For more information on this NIKKOR lens and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikon.ca
FUJIFILM X-H1 Coming Soon!
FUJIFILM has announced the arrival of a new X Series camera, the X-H1, the first of the X Series cameras to have in-body stabilization utilizing three axial accelerometers, three axial Gyro sensors, and a specially-developed dual-processor.
The new camera features a 24.3 megapixel APS-C sized X-Trans CMOS III sensor and X-Processor Pro image processing engine for outstanding image quality, as well as in-body image stabilization (IBIS), a new Flicker Reduction mode that allows for stable exposure under fluorescent and mercury lighting, DCI 4K and other impressive video capabilities.
The X-H1 has a newly designed, robust and durable body, and a range of features that support shooting in various situations by professional and experienced amateurphotographers, and videographers. The X-H1 is the first camera in the X Series to include ETERNA, a new film simulation mode that is ideal for shooting movies. This mode simulates cinematic film, creating understated colours and rich shadow tones, greatly enhancing creative freedom during post-processing. The X-H1 boasts many functional and performance improvements to video image quality, including the 1080/120P high-speed video mode (1/2, 1/4 and 1/5 speed slow motion) for recording spectacular slow-motion footage; F-log SD card recording which aids smooth workflow; a DCI 4K shooting mode (4096×2160); a 400% dynamic range setting (approximately 12 stops); 200 Mbps high bit rate recording; a high-sound quality internal microphone (24 bit/48 kHz); and verbal time codes.
Along with the new camera, two new X-mount cinema lenses have been announced – the MKX18-55mm and MKX50-135mm, both designed to be lightweight and compact, with advanced optical performance. The new MKX lenses are designed for ease-of-use, with the gears for all three rings positioned in the same place so you do not have to re-position accessories when switching lenses.
Availability and Pricing
The X-H1 will be available in March, 2018 in the U.S. and Canada. The X-H1 Body will be available for CAD $2,449.99 and the X-H1 Body with Vertical Power Booster Grip Kit will be available for CAD $2,799.99
Three New Panasonic Lumix Cameras!
Panasonic Canada has added three new cameras to its LUMIX lineup.
LUMIX DC-GX9MK
The Panasonic LUMIX DC-GX9MK is a compact Digital Single Lens Mirrorless model, featuring high-precision Auto Focus and Ultra HD 4K video and 4K PHOTO. The LUMX DC-GX9MK has a 20.3-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor without a low-pass filter, and Venus Engine for maximum lens performance producing natural, high-precision images. The camera has a 5-axis Dual I.S. (Image Stabilizer) that combines an O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer, 2-axis) and a B.I.S. (Body Image Stabilizer, 5-axis), this system compensates for a wider range of movement to enable blur-free photo/video shooting from wide to telephoto, even in low-light conditions. A new 16:9 wide screen LVF (Live View Finder) tilts up approximately 90 degrees, with approximately 2760k-dot equivalent resolution and 100% colour reproduction and approximately 1.39x / 0.7x (35mm camera equivalent.) magnification and 100% field of view.
The camera also has a large 3.0-inch, approximately 1240k-dot high-resolution static-type touch monitor that tilts up approximately 80 degrees and down 45 degrees.
Ultra HD 4K video and 4K PHOTO
The LUMX DC-GX9MK records smooth, high-resolution 4K videos in 3840×2160 resolution at 30p or 24p in addition to the Full-HD 1,920×1,080 60p videos with practical full-time AF. LUMIX 4K PHOTO lets you extract single frames from 4K burst files shot at 30 fps to save as 8-megapixel equivalent photos.
The LUMX DC-GX9MK includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi® connectivity. Compatibility with Bluetooth 4.2 (Bluetooth Low Energy) enables consistent connection with a smartphone or tablet with minimum power consumption.
The Panasonic LUMX DC-GX9MK (GX9 body plus a LUMIX 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 lens) will be available at select Canadian retailers and on the Panasonic eStore in April with an MSRP of $1299.99 (CDN).
Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS200
Panasonic Canada has announced the LUMIX DC-ZS200 – the new flagship of the popular Panasonic LUMIX Travel Zoom series, featuring a 24mm ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and enhanced 15x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 24-360mm) in a compact body.
The camera has 5-Axis HYBRID Optical Image Stabilizer Plus to suppress camera shake in photo and video recording, and a 1-inch High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and Venus Engine that delivers up to ISO 12,800 for high sensitivity quality. An upgraded Live View Finder (LVF) integrates a new 0.21-inch, 2,330K-dot equivalent LVF with a high magnification ratio of approximately 1.45x/0.53x (35mm camera equivalent). Both LVF and a 3-in. touchscreen display provide approximately 100% field of view. The LUMIX DC-ZS200 delivers exceptional optical performance with minimum distortion and flare, and enables close-up shots with its 3cm macro capability.
4K video recording is stunning with high-resolution QFHD 4K video in 3840×2160 at 30p or 24p in MP4.
The LUMIX DC-ZS200 also features 4K PHOTO so you can extract single frames from 4K burst files shot at 30 fps to save as 8-megapixel equivalent images.
The LUMIX DC-ZS200 integrates Bluetooth and Wi-Fi® connectivity.
The Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS200 will be available at select Canadian retailers and on the Panasonic eStore in April with an MSRP of $1099.99 (CDN).
Panasonic LUMIX DC-GH5S
The third of the trio of new Panasonic cameras announced at CES 2018 is the DC-GH5S, featuring expanded video recording capabilities and enhanced image quality in low-light. This DSLM camera was designed and developed for professional filmmakers. With the world’s first C4K 60p video recording feature, the LUMIX DC-GH5S achieves the highest image sensitivity and video image quality in the history of LUMIX cameras.
This camera is a new hybrid Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, with expanded video recording capabilities and enhanced image quality in low-light, this first of its kind DSLM camera was designed and developed for professional filmmakers. With the world’s first C4K 60p video recording feature, the LUMIX DC-GH5S achieves the highest image sensitivity and video image quality in the history of LUMIX cameras. The 10.2-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor with Dual Native ISO Technology and Venus Engine allow a maximum ISO 51200 in high-sensitivity recording with minimal noise. This sensor is a multi-aspect type that can realize the same angle of view at the same focal length in 4:3,17:9,16:9 and 3:2 aspect ratios. The sensor also achieves 14-bit RAW format in stills, providing higher flexibility for professional RAW development workflows.
The V-LogL software is pre-installed on LUMIX DC-GH5S. Log recording offers exceptional flexibility as well as a wider dynamic range for colour grading in the post-production process, and V-LogL features log characteristics with 12 stops of dynamic range. LUT (Look Up Table) allows users to playback videos recorded in V-LogL to see an approximation of the final colour grading effects. While “Cinelike D” and “Cinelike V”, which have similar gamma setting characteristics for film production, are available in Photo Style for video recording, the LUMIX DC-GH5S provides “Like709” for compatibility with HDTV. In “Like709”, Knee Control is also effective. Not only V-LogL but also Photo Style and Like709 can now be used in Time Lapse Shot on LUMIX GH5.
Outstanding tracking performance and high-speed, high-precision AF are achieved through DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology*4 and ultra-high-speed digital signal processing achieve fast auto focusing of approximately 0.07 sec*5 and 12 (AFS) / 8 (AFC) fps in 12-bit RAW and 11 (AFS) / 7 (AFC) fps in 14-bit RAW high-speed burst shooting. A total of 225 focus areas, Tracking AF, 1-area AF and Pinpoint AF are available for precise focusing. The 4K PHOTO enables 60 fps high-speed capture in approximately 8-megapixel equivalent resolution.
The LUMIX DC-GH5S includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi® connectivity to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. Compatibility with Bluetooth 4.2 (called BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy) enables constant connection with a smartphone/tablet with minimum power consumption.
The Panasonic LUMIX DC-GH5S is available at select Canadian retailers and on the Panasonic eStore with an MSRP of $3399.99.
Photokina to become an Annual Event
Koelnmesse management has announced that photokina, the world’s largest photo imaging event, will become an annual four-day trade show starting in 2018, to reflect the fast moving industry trends.
The 2018 event will be held September 26-29, and then the dates will move to a May 8 – 11 time slot in 2019 and consecutive years.
Photokina will put increased emphasis on the continued conversion of photography and mobile phones. Product lines will include handset manufacturers, imaging phone accessories, application development and finished applications. Photokina will also cover virtual and augmented reality, facial recognition, cloud computing and holography.
For more information please contact:
Darrin Stern
Director of New Business Development
Koelnmesse, Inc.
8600 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 410N, Chicago, IL 60631 USA
Phone 773-326-9925
e-mail: d.stern@koelnmessenafta.com
Sony A7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera
Sony Electronics has introduced the latest addition to their full-frame mirrorless camera lineup, the α7 III (model ILCE-7M3).
The new α7 III features a brand new 24.2MPi back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor with increased sensitivity, outstanding resolution and 15 stops of dynamic range at low sensitivities.
Sensor features include AF coverage of 93%, fast shooting at up to 10 fps with either mechanical shutter or silent shooting, diverse 4K video capabilities.
The camera will be compatible with the Sony range of 26 native full-frame E-mount lenses.
The 24.2MPi back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor is paired with a front-end LSI that effectively doubles the readout speed of the image sensor, as well as an updated BIONZ X™ processing-engine that boosts processing speed by approximately 1.8 times compared to the α7 II.
The new α7 III features a level of AF performance that has been improved over the α7 II, including the addition of 4D FOCUS™ capabilities. The new camera has 425 contrast AF points that work with a 693-point focal-plane phase-detection AF system.
The new α7 III features 4Kvi (3840×2160 pixels) video recording across the full width of the full-frame image sensor.
The camera is also compatible with a wide variety of Sony E-mount accessories including the BC-QZ1 Battery Charger, VG-C3EM Vertical Grip.
The Sony α7 III Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Camera will ship this April. In Canada, it will be sold for $2600 CA for the body and $2800 in a kit with the FE 28 70 mm F3.5 5.6 lens.
Olympus announces Firmware Updates for OM-D and Pen Cameras
Firmware Version 2.0 for OM-D E-M1® Mark II, Version 3.0 for PEN-F®, and Version 4.0 for OM-D E-M5 Mark II deliver new functions and performance enhancements
Olympus has recently announced a series of firmware updates that are available immediately for several of its latest interchangeable lens cameras. The firmware upgrades include Version 2.0 for the flagship Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, Version 3.0 for the Olympus PEN-F, and Version 4.0 for the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II.
The firmware updates are part of the Olympus dedication to providing ongoing product functionality and performance improvements to deliver cameras that users can depend on long after their initial purchase.
The latest firmware updates are designed to bolster Olympus’s interchangeable lens cameras with the latest functionality, improved performance, and expanded creative options. Many of the firmware updates were implemented in response to users’ requests.
For example, Firmware Version 3.0 for the PEN-F adds the ability to save the settings of the Monochrome and Colour Profile Control from the user’s computer onto the camera. Firmware Version 4.0 for the OM-D E-M5 Mark II adds the Focus Stacking function available on the OM-D E-M1 and E-M1 Mark II. In addition to these upgrades, videographers will now have access to the Look Up Table (LUT) file for the OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the OM-D E-M5 Mark II, allowing for advanced control and optimal colour grading using DaVinci Resolve®.
Other new features include improved Pro Capture Mode functionality in the OM-D E-M1 Mark II’s Firmware Version 2.0, while the PEN-F’s Firmware Version 3.0 includes shading effects that were previously only available in Monochrome Profile Control and are now available in Colour Profile Control and Colour Creator.
Firmware updates are easy to install, following a clear and concise step-by step process explained in full at the Olympus support website.
For more details please visit: www.getolympus.com/firmware
