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Monday, November 30, 2015

Cyber Monday Deal - Canon EOS-70D with EF-S 18-55mm and EF-S 55-250mm for $700


Canon EOS-70D with EF 18-55mm and EF 55-250mm IS STM lenses


There is a top-rated merchant on the Internet selling a refurbished Canon EOS-70D camera with two lens - EF 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and EF 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM for $700. The kit comes with one year Canon USA warranty.

If you have concern about purchasing refurbished camera equipment, read my earlier post on this subject. You will not find a link to this item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on refurbished Canon cameras yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Sunday, November 29, 2015

Black Friday Deal - Canon EOS-M3 Bundle $429


Canon EOS-M3 mirrorless camera with EF-M 18-55mm lens

There is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-M3 mirrorless camera bundle for $429 including free shipping. The bundle includes the camera plus a 32GB memory card and reader, wireless shutter release, carrying bag, etc.

As you know, Canon had a slow start with their mirrorless cameras and the EOS-M3 is their latest version and was not even available in North America until recently. Although the EOS-M3 can use all EF lens with the addition of an adapter, there will be more EF-M lens coming in 2016 to beef up the current lineup. Canon also announced a smaller mirrorless camera called the EOS-M10 last month.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on eBay yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Canon EOS-M3 Main Features :

  •     24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  •     DIGIC 6 Image Processor
  •     3.0 inch 1.04M pixel Touchscreen Tilting LCD
  •     Full HD 1080p Video at 24/25/30 fps
  •     Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity with NFC
  •     Hybrid CMOS AF System with 49 AF Points
  •     ISO 100-12800, Expandable to 25600
  •     Hot Shoe and Built-In Flash
  •     3.5mm Stereo Mic Input
  •     Full Manual Control

Black Friday Deal - Canon EOS-5D Mark III $1,899


Canon EOS-5D Mark III full frame camera

The Canon EOS-5D Mark III camera has been my pick as the best value, full frame DSLR camera for the last three years in a row. I have written posts comparing the EOS-5D Mark III to the EOS-5Ds, EOS-7D Mark II and the Nikon D810 for those thinking of upgrading to the 5D3 or buying the other cameras. You can see my recommendation for the best Canon cameras.

Although Canon is expected to announce the EOS-5D Mark IV some time in the first half of 2016, not every photographer needs and wants the latest and greatest gear and the EOS-5D Mark III is a great value for nature, and wedding photographers.

After much deliberation, I have finally replaced my venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III with the EOS-5Ds full frame, 61-point AF, 50 megapixel camera. My 5Ds will be used primarily for nature and travel photography but occasionally for wildlife that don't move too much. The resolution of its impressive sensor,  the ability to crop the image to 1.3x and 1.6x right inside the camera are great advantages for me when it comes to wildlife photography, offsetting its main disadvantage - the slow 5 fps burst rate.

There is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mark III camera for $1,899 including free shipping. The list price is $2,799. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on eBay yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Patent - EF-S 55-200mm f/4-6.3 IS STM Lens




The Japanese photography blog Egami has uncovered another new Canon patent for the EF-S 55-200mm f/4-6.3 STM lens. Although Image Stabilization was not mentioned, I am certain it is in the patent and may have been overlooked. The STM line of lens are very flexible and are great for taking still photos as well as videos. 

It is important to note not all patents make it to the market place but there will be more EF, EF-S and EF-M lenses announcement in 2016.

    Patent Publication No. 2015-197655

  •         Published 2015.11.9
  •         Filing date 2014.4.3

    Example 1

  •         Zoom ratio 3.68
  •         Focal length 54.36 133.00 199.99
  •         F-number 4.14 5.22 6.32
  •         Half angle of 14.11 5.86 3.91
  •         Image height 13.66
  •         Overall length of the lens 129.39 161.77 167.04
  •         BF 46.78 66.90 78.18

Saturday, November 28, 2015

This Is How Canon Makes The EF 500mm f/4L IS Lens


Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II Super Telephoto lens

The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II is my favorite non Diffractive Optics Super Telephoto prime lens. The EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X is my favorite Super Telephoto zoom lens and the EF 400mm f/4DO IS II is my favorite Diffractive Optics Super Telephoto prime lens.

You can see how the EF 500mm lens is manufactured from beginning to end. Take a look at my equipment bag and global wildlife photography taken with all the above lenses. Find out how Canon's Image Stabilizer lens technology works and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com.


Black Friday Deal - Tamron SP 150-600mm Lens $699


Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di IF VC lens

My readers know I have been a wildlife photographer using Canon equipment for 25 years. Tamron announced the SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 lens in late 2013 and I tested one of the early models while traveling in Asia. You can read my review here.

There is a highly rated merchant on eBay selling this lens for $699 after rebates from Tamron USA. The list price is $1,069. I am not a fan of this glass although it may be a good deal for those who are on a limited budget and shoot wildlife photography as a hobby.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on eBay yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Friday, November 27, 2015

Black Friday Deal - Canon EOS-5DsR $2,924


Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras

The Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras are widely available now. DxOMark recently came out with their sensor score on the camera. I have written posts comparing them to the Nikon D810Sony a7R II and EOS-5D Mk III for those who are contemplating buying either camera or upgrading to one.

There is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5DsR camera for $2,924 including free shipping. The list price is $3,599. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer. Canon recently put out a list of recommended lens with this camera.

After much deliberation, I have finally replaced my venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III with this full frame, 61-point AF, 50 megapixel camera. My 5Ds will be used primarily for nature and travel photography but occasionally for wildlife that don't move too much. The resolution of its impressive sensor,  the ability to crop the image to 1.3x and 1.6x right inside the camera are great advantages for me when it comes to wildlife photography, offsetting its main disadvantage - the slow 5 fps burst rate.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on eBay yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-6D Black Friday Deal - $999 Including Shipping




There is a top-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-6D camera for $999 including free shipping. This is an excellent deal for anyone thinking of upgrading to full frame digital photography from either a Rebel or Powershot camera.

Although I am not a fan of the Canon EOS-6D, this camera can be a good value for those who want to enter the world of full frame photography on a limited budget. Read my earlier post on the Canon EOS-5D Mark III vs. EOS-6D comparison and the Nikon D600 is added in for the three way comparison. For those trying to decide between the EOS-7D Mark II and EOS-6D, read my post on their comparison. Expect the Mark II version to make its debut some time in 2016.

My own preference is to buy a refurbished or well maintained EOS-5D Mark III instead.You can read my guide to the best Canon cameras. You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not endorse any particular company. I am completely unbiased in my reporting and have no conflict of interest. Find the listing on eBay yourself easily. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-6D full frame camera Major Specifications :

  •     20.2MP CMOS Sensor
  •     DIGIC 5+ Image Processor
  •     3.0 inch 1.04M pixel Clear View LCD Monitor
  •     Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 30 fps
  •     11-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point
  •     Native ISO 25600, Extended to ISO 102400
  •     4.5 fps Shooting at Full Resolution
  •     Built-In Wi-Fi and GPS Connectivity
  •     iFCL 63-Zone Dual Layer Metering Sensor
  •     In-Camera HDR & Multiple Exposure Mode

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Tips On How To Pack For Wildlife Photo Tours via Air Travel




My readers know I have been a wildlife photographer for 25 years using Canon equipment. Through the years, I have flown around the world on many planes, from a De Havilland Beaver to the Airbus A380, the world's largest passenger jet. The above video shows how some airline luggage handlers perform their tasks. For serious photographers, the challenge is to get all their gear into the plane instead of having to check the equipment into the cargo bay below.

Here's how I pack for wildlife photo tours to ensure my bag always gets into the cabin above : 


The above bag will weigh less than 30 pounds, depending on the equipment and bag used. Other equipment like mono and tripods, flash, laptop, extenders, extension tubes, extra charger and memory, etc. can be packed into another bag for the cargo hold. If the worst happens and the checked bag is lost or delayed, my photo trip will not be ruined because I still have professional grade equipment at my disposal.

My preference is to travel light and plan ahead for most contingencies, including loss or theft of equipment. For those who must bring all the 'necessary' gear, they can pack them in Pelican cases, check them into the cargo hold and hope for the best. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Canon Seeking To Acquire An Image Company?


Canon headquarter building in Tokyo, Japan

Canon is the largest photographic equipment manufacturer in the world. They have been ranked 40 out of 100 in a survey of the world's most valuable brands and have celebrated EF lens and EOS camera production of 110th and 80th million unit recently. However, their profits have dropped in the most recent quarter because camera sales have been down in the last few years, primarily due to changes in consumers' taste and the advancement in the cameras of many smartphones.

No camera manufacturer has not been affected by the recent downturn and Canon remains a blue chip, profitable company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Samsung has already shut down its camera sales operations in Germany and the United Kingdom, two of the largest economies in Europe. Sony is in the process of acquiring Toshiba's sensor manufacturing business. Lately, there are rumors Canon tried to acquire Sigma Corporation, a family owned business specializing in after market lens for other brands of cameras. This is hardly earth-shattering news in the business world. Businesses merge or get bought out all the time and the camera business is no different.  

Canon is a conservative company and although they have 'kicked the tires' in checking out other companies, including Hasselblad, they rarely overpay and prefer to buy on the cheap. Although the photography market is not expected to experience sales like it did 5 or 6 years ago, it is not expected to collapse either

Recently, at the 2015 Expo Show, Canon showed off a few prototype products with great potential, among them, a 120MP APS-C sensor, 250MP APS-H sensorEF 600mm f/4 DO BR lens and the ME-20F-SH camera that 'sees in the dark'. In addition, Canon is expected to announce the EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-5D Mark IV cameras in the first half of 2016. There are many things on Canon management's plate in the next few months, but they are also actively pursuing possible deals in the areas of sensor and lens manufacturing. It could end up in an outright purchase or joint venture with another company. More to come when I receive additional information.     

I have been a wildlife photographer for 25 years using Canon equipment, As an user and observer of the company over the years, I have seen many changes and expect to see much more as they adapt to new challenges and technology. You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com 

New Canon Patent For ND Filter Coating




The Japanese blog Egami has uncovered a new Canon patent for a special coating on Neutral Density filters. The new coating is to minimize ghosting. Although Canon has a small number of filters out, mostly in the Super Telephoto lens arena, they have not gone into the filter business in a big way.

Patent Publication No. 2015-200805 (Google Translated)

  • Published 2015.11.12
  • Filing date 2014.4.9
  • On the surface of the transparent substrate made of synthetic resin, deposited the inorganic hard film of fine uneven periodic structure
  • The refractive index changes toward the surface layer side from the transparent substrate side

World Press Photo Contest Announced New Code Of Ethics




I have been a wildlife photographer for 25 years using Canon equipment and never once entered a photo contest. These competitions offer me little satisfaction. I am my own severest critic and judge, always striving and take a better photo. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


The following is a post from Canon Professional Network, Europe :

In recent years, the photographic industry has called for clearer criteria on entering and judging World Press Photo Contest submissions. The World Press Photo Foundation has answered this call for the 2016 Photo Contest by publishing a new code of ethics, revised entry rules, and a transparent description of the judging and verification processes. The 2016 Photo Contest changes are part of a new strategy which the World Press Photo Foundation devised during a five-month review involving 17 consultations with photographers, editors and publishers at events in 15 locations worldwide.

Entries to the highly anticipated annual World Press Photo Contest are regarded as visual documents and are therefore expected to be an accurate and fair representation of the scene the photographer witnessed. The first entry rule concerning manipulation was enforced in 2009 and in the 2014 Photo Contest World Press Photo began requesting photographers submit original camera files. The challenge being addressed now is making contest participants more aware of what counts as manipulation.

Managing Director of World Press Photo, Lars Boering, says: “In the past two years 33 entries, out of a total of 240 in the second last round, were excluded, and one story was disqualified after the award. If we want pictures to be documents and evidence, we cannot accept the addition or removal of content, even if it is just ‘tidying up the image’.”

As photographs are at risk for manipulation during every stage in the photographic process – capture, production, publication, and circulation – the World Press Photo Foundation has introduced a new code of ethics and committed to continued use of independent digital analysts and a fact-checking team to review original camera files, metadata and caption accuracy.
Entry requirements

“It is important to stress that processing by itself is not manipulation,” states World Press Photo. That said, the new code of ethics shows that sensible cropping, sensor dust and scratches on negatives are among the few alterations in content permitted for contest entrants. Some level of colour correction as well as conversion to greyscale is accepted but changes which diverge from the original colour or obscure objects and/or people in the background of a picture are viewed as manipulation.

Those entries that have made it to the second to last round of judging will be checked for manipulation. Entrants who are eligible for the fifth and final round of judging are required to provide original camera files which World Press Photo will then pass on to two independent digital analysts. If unacceptable modifications are found, a 36-hour timeframe begins where entrants are given a chance to explain the apparent alteration. From 2016 onwards, entrants whose work has been excluded for altering content in two contests will be prevented from entering the contest for the next five years.

Captions will also be under strict scrutiny; requirements are outlined in the revised entry rules. As well as giving attribution for action not seen, providing sourced context of an event, the photographer must also state if he/she influenced the scene in any way. In the contest’s Portrait category which has been renamed as People, photographers must disclose in the caption if they “gave directions to a subject to pose in any way for a portrait”. Eligible photographs will be subject to an independent fact-checking team who will determine the completeness and accuracy of the captions.
What else is new?

The World Press Photo Contest has introduced an entirely new category: Long-Term Projects – Group. Entrants can now submit a photo essay which has been shot over a period of at least three years by two or more photographers.

For the first time all category prize winners (1st/2nd/3rd) will be invited to the awards and have travel and accommodation expenses covered by the World Press Photo Foundation. In addition, usage rights that applied to the Photo Of The Year winner will now apply to all awarded pictures.

To determine the photo contest winners, five specialised juries as well as one general jury deliberate independently of the World Press Photo Foundation during a two week judging process. For the first time, the complete judging procedures handbook has been made publicly available. Find the handbook, entry requirements, as well as explanatory videos on the World Press Photo website here.

Aside from the Photo Contest, the World Press Photo Foundation has announced that it will launch a standalone website in 2016, with its own publication name, which will act as a forum to investigate and report on visual stories.

Lars Boering concludes: “Now our team is looking forward to pushing ahead with building the online channel so we can showcase great stories and new approaches, lead debate, and connect visual journalists with the global audience that wants and needs their work.”
How to enter

The 2016 World Press Photo Contest will be open for participants to enter their work on 2 December 2015. The deadline for submissions is 13 January 2016, 23.59 (CET). Entries may only be submitted online via the World Press Photo entry website. A username and password are required to enter and can be requested until 7 January 2016, 23.59 (CET). 

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Canon U.S.A. CarePAK PLUS Covers Accidental Damage




MELVILLE, N.Y. - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, launched a promotion for CarePAK PLUS (which includes accidental damage protection) just in time for the holidays. Now through Saturday, January 9, 2016, Canon’s CarePAK PLUS is available at no cost to customers who purchase from a list of six professional Canon EOS DSLR camera bodies and eight EF USM lenses plus “kit” lenses on eligible camera bodies from a Canon Authorized Dealer. Providing protection from accidental damage like coffee spills to additional hardware coverage from excessive wear and tear on mechanical and electrical issues, CarePAK PLUS coverage lasts 13 months from the date of product purchase. And as an added bonus, CarePAK PLUS is transferable, meaning the customer can give the product as a gift this holiday season and the benefits will transfer.

“This complimentary CarePAK PLUS promotion was developed so photographers can focus on capturing family festivities during the holidays, or shooting professionally on assignment, without having to worry about the costs and anxiety associated with accidental damage,” said Eliott Peck, senior vice president and general manager of Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “By offering this promotion to our customers, we’re letting them know we stand firmly behind them and if it’s needed they can count on Canon’s 100 percent U.S.-based customer service.”

Eligible Canon cameras and lenses include :

  •     EOS-6D
  •     EOS-7D Mark II
  •     EOS-5D Mark III
  •     EOS-5DS
  •     EOS-5DS R
  •     EOS-1D X
  •     EF 16–35mm f/2.8L II USM
  •     EF 17–40mm f/4L USM
  •     EF 24–70mm f/2.8L II USM
  •     EF 70–200mm f/2.8L IS II USM
  •     EF 100–400mm f/4.5–5.6L IS II USM
  •     EF 50mm f/1.2L USM
  •     EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
  •     EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

In addition, any lens included within a kit with an eligible body will be covered. For example, if a customer purchases the Canon EOS-5D Mark III and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens kit, the lens will be covered since it is included in the box with the body (also known as a “hard bundle”).

The CarePAK PLUS promotion provides protection from kids, pets, and life including accidental damage such as drops, spills, power surges and other unforeseen events. It also includes additional hardware coverage from excessive wear and tear on mechanical and electrical issues. Those that do require a repair under this promotion will also enjoy priority service, free return shipping and support direct from Canon, never a third party. Canon’s CarePAK PLUS gives consumers the confidence that their product will be serviced by Canon factory trained technicians using only Genuine Canon parts. Customers who activate the complimentary CarePAK PLUS offer after taking delivery of their covered product will also have the option to extend the coverage for up to three years from date of purchase at an additional cost.

Details of the promotion are available at http://www.usa.canon.com/carepak-plus including the terms and conditions and the link to register eligible products.

Latest Info on Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera?



The current EOS-1D X camera has been my pick as the best full frame DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photography over three years in a row. According to the latest information I have received, the long awaited EOS-1D X Mark II model will be equipped with 4K video. That indicates to me Canon feels Nikon will definitely include 4K video in their soon to be announced top-of-the-line D5 camera. They also want to make sure SonyLeica and Nikon are not the only companies with a full frame camera capable of 4K video.

In order to support 4K video and other improved features and function, Canon will probably break its usual habit and equip the new camera with their latest processor - DIGIC 7. Up to now, Canon has always introduced their newest processors on the lower end models like the Powershot cameras first. The DIGIC 6 was a case in point. On top of that, the Mark II model will probably come with dual CFast card slots to handle the added processing power and vast amount of data. This means for many owners of the new DSLR, especially those who plan to use the 4K video feature a lot, they will have to buy a whole new supply of more expensive CFast memory cards.

My readers know I am a wildlife photographer. After resisting for many months, I have finally and reluctantly replaced my faithful full frame Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III camera with the EOS-5Ds. The main reason is the super high resolution 50MP sensor and the flexibility of the EOS-5Ds to take photos in the 1.3x and 1.6x crop mode. These advantages offset the disadvantage of its slow 5 fps burst rate. My main 'complaint' of the EOS-1D X is its relative modest 18 MP sensor does not offer too many pixels for post processing cropping and I am not a big fan of extenders. Still keeping my eyes open for the upcoming EOS-5D Mark IV. Should be announced after the EOS-1D X Mark II.

A combination of the EOS-5Ds, EOS-7D Mark II and the upcoming EOS-1D X Mark II cameras will be the main bodies in my equipment bag. I have many global photo shoots coming up in 2016 and will put the EOS-5Ds and EOS-1D X Mark II through many real world testing and write a comprehensive report on these cameras in the next few months.

Below are the best information I have for the upcoming EOS-1D X Mark II camera. Keep checking back for the latest development. More to come . . . . You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Possible specs for Canon EOS-1D X Mark II : 

  • New 22 to 24 megapixel full frame Canon sensor 
  • May utilize column parallel sensing technology similar to Sony's EXMOR sensor
  • New sensor technology subdividing high and low sensitivity pixels
  • New, state of the art AF system
  • Dual DIGIC 7 processors
  • 15 stops of dynamic range
  • Maximum burst rate 15 fps (13 fps w/o mirror lockup)
  • 4K video (maximum 30 fps)
  • Dual CFast or CF memory card slots
  • 3.3 inch Super high resolution LCD
  • Unmatched weather sealing and ergonomics
  • List price - below $7,000 in the U.S.A.
  • Expected announcement date : Q1 of 2016

Monday, November 23, 2015

World's Rarest Animal - Northern White Rhino


Southern White Rhino in Sabi Sand, South Africa

The world's rarest animal species is the Northern White Rhino. There are only 4 animals known to exist. One was living at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in California and the other three are in Kenya, Africa.

This week, there are only three Northern White Rhinos left. Nola, a 41-year-old female, who had been living at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park since 1989 was euthanized after a severe bacterial infection and surgery left her in agonizing pain. 


Nola, the Northern White Rhino. Gone but not forgotten

Nola was rescued from Southern Sudan in the 1970s when the country was mired in civil war and wildlife was poached indiscriminately. The Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya cares for the other three remaining Northern White Rhinos. A 42 year old bull, named Sudan and two female companions. When I visited the conservancy a few years ago, I had the privilege of seeing the animals. They are under armed guards 24 hours a day. Sadly, Sudan is too old to be sexually active and Rhinos only live to an average age of about 40 years in the wild. 

The reason Rhinos, Elephants and Tigers are facing the danger of extinction is mainly due to relentless poaching in order to satisfy the black market demands in Asia for 'medicine' and ivory cravings. Rhino horns are primarily made of Keratine, the same substance found in our nails and have absolutely no medicinal value or quality.

Scientists have preserved some of Sudan's sperm in liquid nitrogen and is trying to obtain eggs from the two remaining females. The hope is to find a Southern White Rhino female as a surrogate mother and see if they can artificially implant the embryo and hope it may develop into a Northern White Rhino calf. The chances are slim but everything must be done to see if the experiment can work.

I have been a wildlife photographer for 25 years and have visited Sudan in his conservancy when I was in Kenya. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


New Canon Patent for 25-125mm f/2.8 Cinema EOS Lens


Canon CinemaEOS line of lens 

Egami, the Japanese photography blog has discovered a new patent for a 25-125mm f/2.8 lens for the Canon EOS Cinema line. The patent refers to a Super 35mm sensor.

    Patent Publication No. 2015-176118

  •         Published 2015.10.5
  •         Filing date 2014.3.18

    Example 1

  •         Zoom ratio 5.00
  •         Focal length 25.00 125.00
  •         F-number 2.90
  •         Half angle (in degrees) 29.42 6.44
  •         Image height 14.10
  •         Overall length of the lens 446.92
  •         BF 50.00

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Nikon D5 Coming To CES 2016 in Las Vegas?



A few days ago, Nikon officially announced the development of the D5 camera. End of story. No more information was provided. Their top-of-the-line D4 camera was announced at the CES in 2012.

Perhaps Nikon is deliberately coy about the D5 announcement to generate more excitement. If history is any guide, they may just announced the D5 at the CES 2016 in January in Las Vegas. Canon is expected to announce their EOS-1D X Mark II camera after Nikon, perhaps in mid Q1, 2016.

The rumored Nikon D5 specs :

  • New 20MP FX sensor
  • New focusing module with larger coverage and 153 AF points
  • Native high ISO of 102,400
  • 15 fps
  • Body design similar to the D4s
  • 4K video 60/30fps
  • Full HD slow motion

My readers know I have picked the EOS-1D X camera as the best full frame DSLR body three years in a row for sports and wildlife photography. Although the Mark II is scheduled to come out in a few short months, not everyone needs or wants to upgrade to the latest and greatest. There is a seller on eBay selling the 1DX for $3,899. The current model is a fine camera and at almost half the price of the new body, it is really a bargain. I expect the EOS-1D X Mark II to list for just below $7,000.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not recommend any particular company. I am completely unbiased in my reporting and have no conflict of interest. You can easily find the listing on eBay yourself. You can see my works with this camera on MichaelDanielHo.com

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Wildlife Photo Tours with Michael Daniel Ho - the Wildlife Ho-tographer


My readers know I am the Wildlife Ho-tographer using Canon equipment for 25 years. One of the things I enjoy most, besides taking photographs, is having people accompany me to some of my favorite locations. Sharing the experience I love with others is very fulfilling. For 2016, I will open up three of my photo safari tours to fellow wildlife enthusiasts and photographers and have up to four participants join me on my travels. First trip takes us to the jungles and cloud forests of Costa Rica in search of many species of Hummingbirds, other avian and wildlife. The second trip brings us to the High Arctic for exhilarating whale and Polar bear encounters few places on earth can match. Third trip will be to Botswana and South Africa for a 'Big Five' photo safari.

There are no cost to accompany me on these tours. I am not organizing the tours for anyone and is not responsible for anything. Participants who choose to join me do so on their own free will and risk. They pay their own way and if desire, they desire, they are welcome to use the travel providers I utilize to facilitate my trips. Please email me at Info@MichaelDanielHo.com if you would like to join yours truly on these adventures and share some of our travel tales and experience in photographing wildlife. You can see my equipment bag, follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, Twitter and this Blog and keep up with my travels and see photos from previous trips on my wildlife photography page.


Costa Rica -- March 2016


Male Green Thorntail Hummingbird feeding in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has as many micro climates and for 10 days we will devote most of it to photographing the birds and wildlife of this wonderfully exotic country. From waterfalls to cloud forests to spectacular volcanoes, this tour will take in the best Costa Rica has to offer.

Toucans and Hummingbirds are two of many birders' favorite bird species and there should be plenty of them down there. Hummingbirds belong to the family of birds known as Trochilidae. They are among the smallest avians, most species measure about 3 to 5 inches in length and generally weigh between one to two tenth of an ounce. The smallest is the Bee Hummingbird and the largest is the South American Giant Hummingbird, which can weigh about an ounce.

Travel to Selva Verde Rainforest Reserve for an unforgettable experience. We will concentrate on the Sarapiqui Rainforest Preservation Area in the lush lowlands of northeastern Costa Rica. In addition to the many species of birds, animals and amphibians, local attractions such as the Braulio Carrillo National Park, the Arenal and Poas Volcanoes, and the Heliconia Island Botanical Gardens are also on our list to visit and explore. Click on my Hummingbirds and Bird Photography pages to see more photos from previous trips.


Svalbard, The High Arctic -- June 2016


Polar bear leaping on ice floes in the high Arctic

Svalbard, an archipelago in the Land of the Midnight Sun, deep inside the Arctic Circle. In the summer months, there is 24 hour daylight and the weather, seas and ice flows can be unpredictable. It can range from a blustery, snowy day with 40+ knots winds to sunny, T-shirt weather the next. The wildlife in Svalbard is diverse. There is a population of about 3,000 Polar bears on the islands, together with indigenous herds of Reindeer. Arctic foxes, Atlantic Walruses, many species of cetaceans, including Humpback and Killer whales, dolphins, seals and pelagic birds can be found among the ice floes, cliffs and numerous islands and coves.

We will go on a small expedition ship for 10 days in search of Polar bears and other Arctic wildlife. The unpredictable pattern of ice flows and weather conditions will be a challenge for the ship's captain and photographers and their equipment but the Arctic scenery, replete with glaciers and ice cliffs are so spectacular, one will be too engrossed to worry about the rough seas and temperatures, if one is properly dressed. Longyearbyen, the 'capital' of Svalbard, has a population of about 2,000 people and is quaint but remote.


Botswana and South Africa -- September 2016


Male lion utilizing its Jacobson's Organ to taste the air

Botswana and South Africa are two countries of breathtakingly beautiful sceneries, majestic wildlife and unique cultures. This 2 week safari tour will take us to Chobe and Kruger National Parks, plus the KwaZulu Natal region of South Africa. The Chobe River in Botswana is one of Africa’s most beautiful rivers. It supports a diversity and concentration of wildlife unparalled anywhere else in the country. The National Park was established in 1968 and covers approximately 4,500 square miles, encompassing floodplains, swamps and woodland. The Chobe River forms its northern boundary. There are four distinct geographical areas in the park : the Chobe Riverfront, the Ngwezumba pans, Savuté and Linyanti.

Kruger is one of the largest national parks in Africa, with an area of about 7,600 square miles. The park and surrounding reserves are excellent places to capture 'Big Five' images of Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, Cheetahs, Hippos, Cape Buffaloes, Giraffes, Zebras and many other wildlife. There are also hundreds of species of birds to marvel and photograph for the ornithologist in some of us. Take a look at the video below from Tyler Fairbank shot on safari in South Africa.



The area is characterized as ‘savanna bushveld’ with 6 different landscape types: acacia woodland, open woodland, mopane woodland, combretum woodland, mixed combretum woodland and mixed veld. The critically endangered African wild dog is also a regular visitor to the Reserve. The larger and rarer antelopes such as Roan, Eland and Tsessebe may also be seen but their numbers are still critically low. In between game drives, we may stop in on the neighboring villages to learn about the local culture and traditions.

Africa is a far away continent, especially for those who reside in North America but it is truly a fascinating region of the world and this will be a great trip for those who want to concentrate on wildlife photography, with a bit of culture mixed in, time permitting. Click on the Wildlife Photography section of my website to see exciting safari photos from previous trips. 

Friday, November 20, 2015

Canon EOS-1D X Camera $3,899 Including Shipping



Canon EOS-1D X full frame DSLR camera


There is a top-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-1D X camera for $3,899 including free shipping. This is an excellent deal and my readers know I have picked this camera as the best full frame DSLR body three years in a row for sports and wildlife photography. This camera is on its way to have a 4 year replacement cycle and the Mark II should be out by early 2016. You can read the latest post on the new camera here.

Although the Mark II is scheduled to come out in a few short months, not everyone needs or wants to upgrade to the latest and greatest. The current model is a fine camera and at almost half the price of the new body, it is really a bargain. I expect the EOS-1D X Mark II to list for just below $7,000.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not recommend any particular company. I am completely unbiased in my reporting and have no conflict of interest. You can easily find the listing on eBay yourself. See travel and wildlife photos taken with this camera on my worldwide photo shoots on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III Lens Coming


Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II lens

Canon is expected to announce the EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-5D Mark IV cameras some time in Q1 and first half of the 2016, respectively. My readers know the current EOS-1D X camera has been my pick as the best full frame DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photography three years in a row.

In addition to the two expected cameras, Canon is also expected to announce more EF, EF-S and EF-M lens in 2016. One lens of particular interest to me is the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III. The current model is my favorite wide angle glass and accompanies me on all my wildlife photo shoots.

The Mark III model should be announced in 2016, perhaps after or in conjunction with either camera but IS will not be a feature on the new lens. It will have the latest Blue Spectrum Optics technology and retains the same filter diameter. It may be slightly heavier due to the new optics and comes with superior weather sealing. I will be most interested in upgrading to this new lens. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com.

New Canon Patent For 20-45mm f/2.8-4 Lens




The Japanese photography blog Egami has uncovered a new Canon patent for a 20-45mm f/2.8-4 lens. As reported in my earlier posts, Canon is expected to announce more EF, EF-S and EF-M lens in 2016.  

Patent Publication No. 2015-197593 (Google Translated)

  •     Published 2015.11.9
  •     Filing date 2014.4.1
  •     Zoom ratio 2.25
  •     Focal length f = 20.00 23.60 45.00
  •     Fno. 2.75 2.90 4.16
  •     Half angle of 47.25 42.51 25.68
  •     Image height 21.64 21.64 21.64
  •     Overall length 158.28 156.32 173.36
  •     BF 42.05 46.10 73.14

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Lens Mount Updates Available for EOS C300 Mark II Camera


Canon EOS C300 Mark II 4K camcorder

The following notice is from Canon Professional Network, Europe concerning the C300 Mark II 4K camcorder. Last month, there was an issue with some cameras experiencing skipped frames. The matter is being looked into by Canon.

Owners and purchasers of the Canon EOS C300 Mark II camcorder can now benefit from a new lens mount service option which offers the capability to change the 4K Digital Cinema Camera’s original EF mount to EF Mount with Cinema Lock or to a PL mount and back again.

The Lens Mount Replacement service can be booked in at the Canon Regional Competence Centres (RCC) in France, Germany, Italy, Sweden or the UK. Alternatively, the PL lens mount and SHIM kit are also available for direct sale.

Canon has also revealed that from early 2016 a PL mount version of the C300 Mark II will be available to purchase in all EMEA territories. Up until now the camera has only been available in an EF mount but by January 2016 customers can choose whether to purchase an EF mount or a PL mount version. The upcoming PL mount version of the camera will provide support for all of Canon’s PL mount Cinema lenses and other industry-standard PL lenses (Cooke/i not supported), thus allowing for even greater shooting possibilities.

HOW TO ARRANGE A LENS MOUNT REPLACEMENT OR PURCHASE SPARE PARTS

From November 16, 2015, owners will have the option to either send their EOS C300 Mark II to an RCC (either directly or via a local Canon Authorised Service Provider) in order to perform the Lens Mount Service or to purchase a PL Lens Mount and/or SHIM kit directly for self-installation or installation by an RCC.

If choosing to send the camera to a Canon RCC, the following service options will be available:

Mount Replacement Service

If you choose to purchase a PL Lens Mount directly, or would like to revert the camera back to the original EF mount from a previous mount change, the RCCs will be able perform the mount replacement using your purchased or original Lens Mount.

Mount Replacement Service & Mount

Depending on your requirements, the applicable RCC will supply & install either an EF Mount with Cinema Lock Lens Mount or a PL Lens Mount.

Mount Replacement Service & Mount & Shim Kit

Depending on your requirements, the applicable RCC will supply & install either an EF Mount with Cinema Lock Lens Mount or a PL Lens Mount. A SHIM kit will also be supplied for self-installation.
To book in a camera for a Lens Mount Service or to enquire about purchasing a PL mount or SHIM kit directly (including spare part pricing information), please contact the relevant RCC by e-mail. Details of the correct RCC to contact, depending on where you are located, are listed below:

Canon RCC France

For customers in France, Belgium and Luxembourg. Please email cps.services@cf.canon.fr.

Canon RCC Germany

For customers based in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain and Switzerland. Please email cps.services@canon.de.

Canon RCC Italy

For customers based in Italy, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Romania and Slovenia. Please email rccit.cps.service@canon-europe.com.

Canon RCC Sweden

For customers based in Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania and Norway. Please email cps.support@canon.se.

Canon RCC UK

For customers based in the UK and Ireland. Please email cci_servicecentre@cuk.canon.co.uk.
Owners whose country is not mentioned above will be unable to take advantage of the Lens Mount Replacement Services. An option to purchase the Spare Parts directly, however, is available. Please contact a local Canon Video Service Centre for more information.

All Lens Mount Upgrade Services will be available at a fixed price and invoices will be issued in the local currency of the RCC that performs the service. The price, excluding VAT, for each service are outlined below:

Service Type

Mount Replacement Service - €450, £330, SEK 4220

Mount Replacement Service & Mount

This service does not include SHIM parts - €1200, £880, SEK 11245

Mount Replacement Service & Mount & Shim Kit

This service just includes the supply of SHIM parts, they will not be fitted - €1350, £990, SEK 12650

Please note : the prices quoted above may be subject to change and exclude VAT and inbound shipping. The prices are inclusive of outbound shipment & Cash On Delivery Surcharges (if applicable).


EOS C300 MARK II WHITE PAPERS NOW AVAILABLE

Users and potential users of the EOS C300 Mark II can also now discover much more about the capabilities of the camera thanks to three, new downloadable white papers written by Larry Thorpe (Senior Fellow, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Professional Engineering & Solutions Division, Canon USA). The white papers are titled ‘Image Performance Enhancements in the EOS C300 Mark II’, ‘Extended Recording Capabilities in the EOS C300 Mark II’ and ‘Ergonomic and Operational Enhancements to the EOS C300 Mark II’.

If you want to find out more and download these and other white papers just click here to visit the Canon USA Digital Learning Centre (DLC) or click the links on right hand side of this page to download the specific EOS C300 Mark II white papers. The Canon USA DLC also offers additional, downloadable white papers on the Canon Cinema EOS System via the link above.

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Canon Milestone - 80 millionth EOS Camera Produced




TOKYO, November 18, 2015 - Canon Inc. announced today the achievement of a new camera-manufacturing milestone as combined production of the Company’s film and digital EOS-series interchangeable-lens cameras surpassed the 80-million mark on November 10, 2015. The 80 millionth EOS camera produced was an EOS-5DsR, which boasts the world’s highest pixel count in its class.1

Production of Canon EOS SLR cameras began in 1987 at Canon Inc.’s Fukushima Plant (now Fukushima Canon Inc.), later moving to such production bases as Oita Canon Inc. and Canon Inc., Taiwan. Production rapidly increased following the spread of digital SLR cameras in the early 2000s and the Company is now commemorating a new milestone: the production of its 80-millionth EOS camera.

EOS, which stands for “Electro Optical System,” is also the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn. Introduced in March 1987 as a new generation of AF SLR cameras, EOS cameras were the world’s first to incorporate an electronic mount system enabling complete electronic control not only between the lens and body, but throughout the entire camera system.

Canon manufactures all key components employed in the EOS series, enabling the Company to achieve an even more robust product lineup by selecting the optimal sensor for each model. Drawing from this strength, Canon has helped to pioneer a new age for cameras by launching such innovative products as the compact, lightweight EOS Kiss (EOS Rebel XS or EOS 500 in other regions), which succeeded in expanding its user base, and the EOS 5D series, which celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year.

As a result, the Company has successfully maintained the No. 1 share worldwide within the interchangeable-lens digital camera market for the 12-year period from 2003 to 2014. Furthermore, thanks to the strong backing of users over the years, Canon’s EF interchangeable lenses, launched alongside the EOS SLR camera system, celebrated a new manufacturing milestone in June 2015 with the production of the 110-millionth EF-series interchangeable lens for EOS cameras, setting a new world record for the most interchangeable lenses produced.2

Canon will continue to refine its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable lenses and cameras that cater to the varying needs of photographers—from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals—while contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Adobe Releases New Lightroom 6.3 / Lightroom CC 2015.3





Adobe has released a new version of  Lightroom 6.3 and Lightroom CC 2015.3. Click on the following links to download the new software :  Windows | Mac. The new version of Lightroom provides additional camera raw support, lens profile support and corrects software bugs in previous releases.

New Cameras support in Lightroom CC 2015.3 / 6.3
  •         Canon EOS M10
  •         Canon PowerShot G5 X
  •         Canon PowerShot G9 X
  •         Fujifilm X-T1 IR
  •         Leica SL (Typ 601)
  •         Sony RX1R II (DSC RX1RM2)

 New Tethered Camera support in Lightroom CC 2015.3 / 6.3
  •         Canon EOS 5DS
  •         Canon EOS 5DS R
  •         Canon EOS T6i / 750D
  •         Canon EOS T6s / 760D

New Lens support in Lightroom CC 2015.3 / 6.3
  • Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM
  • Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM
  • Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM +1.4x
  • Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM +2.0x
  • Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM
  • Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM +1.4x
  • Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM +2.0x
  • Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM +1.4x
  • Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM +2.0x
  • Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM
  • Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM +1.4x
  • Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM +2.0x
  • Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM
  • Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM +1.4x
  • Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM +2.0x
  • Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x Macro Photo
  • Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
  • SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM A015
  • Zeiss Milvus 1.4/50 ZE
  • Zeiss Milvus 1.4/85 ZE
  • Zeiss Milvus 2/35 ZE
  • Zeiss Milvus 2/50M ZE
  • Zeiss Milvus 2/100M ZE
  • Zeiss Milvus 2.8/21 ZE
  • Zeiss Otus 1.4/28 ZE

Canon Will Update Irista Photo Sharing Service Soon


Canon irista Service


From the Irista team

We’ve had lots of feedback about irista, and later this month we’ll bring some big improvements:

  • Faster : Adding new photos to irista will be much quicker.
  • Easier : Zooming through time will be more fun, with our simpler design.
  • Better organised : Duplicate photos you add will be automatically removed and your photos will always be displayed by the date taken.
  • Mobile : Free up space on your phone by automatically saving all your phone’s photos to irista with our iOS and Android apps.
  • Shared : Easily create and share collections with friends, whether they use irista or not.

There’s a sneak peek of the new version here at http://preview.irista.com. And some answers to questions here.