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Sunday, April 30, 2017

Canon USA Rebates - Including EOS 5D Mark IV, EOS 77D & EOS M6 Cameras




Canon USA has introduced new instant rebates on select DSLRs, PowerShot and Mirrorless cameras plus a couple of EF and EF-S lenses. The rebate offers will expire on June 3, 2017.

You will not find a link to these items because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find them on your favorite camera retailers' website yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Full Frame DSLRs

  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV $3299 (Reg $3499)
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV w/24-70mm f/4L IS $4049 (Reg $4399)
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV w/24-105mm f/4L IS II $4199 (Reg $4599)
  • Canon EOS 6D $1399 (Reg $1699)
  • Canon EOS 6D w/24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM $1799 (Reg $2099)
  • Canon EOS 6D w/24-105mm f/4L IS $1999 (Reg $2299)

APS-C DSLRs

  • Canon EOS 77D $849 (Reg $899)
  • Canon EOS 77D w/18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM $999 (Reg $1049)
  • Canon EOS 77D w/18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM $1249 (Reg $1499)
  • Canon EOS 80D $1099 (Reg $1199)
  • Canon EOS 80D w/18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM $1149 (Reg $1349)
  • Canon EOS 80D w/18-135 f/3.5-5.6 IS USM $1399 (Reg $1799)

Mirrorless Cameras

  • Canon EOS M5 $929 (Reg $979)
  • Canon EOS M5 w/15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM $1049 (Reg $1099)
  • Canon EOS M5 w/18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM $1199 (Reg $1479)
  • Canon EOS M6 w/18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM $1099 (Reg $1279)

PowerShot Cameras

  • Canon PowerShot G3 X $799 (Reg $999)
  • Canon PowerShot G5 X $699 (Reg $799)
  • Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II $429 (Reg $529)

EF and EF-S Lenses

  • Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM Pancake $129 (Reg $149)
  • Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM $110 (Reg $125)

Friday, April 28, 2017

CIPA 2017 Q1 Report Is Out And Sales Are Up


CIPA published their Q1 2017 results for camera and lens shipments. Participating companies include Canon, Nikon, Sony, Sigma, Olympus, Casio, Panasonic Fujifilm, Ricoh, Tamron, Kenko, Tokina, Zeiss and Xacti.

As you can see, there is some improvements this year so far and Canon even forecasted an uptick in their 2017 profits. The industry is not out of the woods yet. Some smaller players may not survive but the bigger companies like Canon and Sony are on the mend.





Super Rare Canon PE 300mm f/1.8 Lens


Canon PE 300mm f/1.8 lens

Remember the rare Canon EF 1200mm f/5.6L lens in my earlier post? However, there is an even rarer Canon lens - the PE 300mm f/1.8  

This lens is used primarily for horse racing to determine the winner at the finish line. There are reportedly only 4 copies of this lens still around.

Canon EOS-7D Mark II Firmware V 1.1.1 Available For Download




My readers know I have picked the Canon EOS-7D as the best value APS-C camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. The Mark II version of this camera is also my pick as the new successor although it has keen competition from the Nikon D500. I have taken this camera on worldwide wildlife photo shoots and it passed with flying colors. You can read my comprehensive review and follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Although the Nikon D500 is newer, the extensive line of EF and EF-S lenses the EOS-7D Mark II can utilize is still coming out on top, in my opinion. I expect Canon to come out with a major firmware upgrade some time in late 2017 or early 2018 to keep the camera competitive. In the meantime, Canon has released a new firmware for the Mark II to take care of a few minor bugs.

Firmware Version 1.1.1 incorporates the following improvement and fix :

  • Enhances reliability of communications when transferring images using Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7 (A/B/C/D/E).
  • Corrects the phenomenon of Err70 which occurs with certain combinations of settings.
  • Corrects the phenomenon in which in very rare cases the shutter can no longer be released.
  • Enhances reliability of operations for specific custom function settings.

Please note :

If using a Wi-Fi adapter/W-E1, the camera’s nickname will be reset to default when you perform this firmware update, so please reset the nickname before using the camera.

Download firmware v1.1.1 at Canon USA

Thursday, April 27, 2017

Wildlife Photography and Documentaries - How Authentic Are They?





My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer and I have used Canon equipment for almost three decades. Over the years, I have found some equipment to be more versatile than others and they always seem to find their way into my equipment bag every time I am on a wildlife photo tour anywhere in the world. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Shooting a wildlife documentary is no different. You see boxes after boxes of equipment accompanying filmmakers to remote locations. Gear do break down when one least expect it and they must have back up to take care of any contingencies. Anyone who has seen movies from major Hollywood production companies know it is 'impossible' to record studio quality sound while on location, so voices and sounds are added and mixed later in the editing rooms. That doesn't make the film 'fake'.

Also during the editing process, many footages and scenes are cut and re-arranged to tell a story. That does not make the documentary 'false'. It's only fake if the scenes are staged, shot under controlled situations or manipulated with CGI.

Wildlife Photography is a bit different because the photographer is capturing a moment in time, not a sequence of events. The final photo will have been cropped, adjusted for exposure, optimal light, color and sharpness, either digitally or in the dark room. That does not make the photograph any less authentic.

Of course there are those who will invariably cheat and think they can get away with it. The infamous cases of the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2010 and Year 2017 come to mind. The winning photos were judged to be a staged event and the 'winners' were stripped of their title.

My motto is simple. If a wildlife photo looks too perfect. Beware and inspect it very carefully. Ask to see the EXIF data and the frames before and after the actual photo. Those who have spent years out in the wild waiting for the right moment know, a perfect photo is very rare. 

Canon Raised Profit Outlook For Full Year 2017




Having been a Canon user for over a quarter of a century and an observer of the company for years, this comes as no surprise since Canon is a well diversified firm and heads-and-shoulders over its other photographic competitors, including Sony and Nikon.


Japan's Canon Inc on Wednesday lifted its full-year operating profit forecast after reporting strong first-quarter results on the back of earnings from a medical equipment unit it bought from Toshiba Corp last year.

The camera and printer maker forecast profit of 270 billion yen ($2.43 billion), up from 255 billion yen estimated in January. It reported profit of 228.9 billion in the previous twelve months.

The upbeat outlook suggests Canon's strategy to diversify has begun to reward the company after the $5.8 billion acquisition of the Toshiba unit and the $2.8 billion takeover of Swedish video-surveillance firm Axis AB.

Canon also said the two existing businesses that have long dragged its earnings - laser printers and cameras - are also showing signs of bottoming out.

A recovery in the Chinese and other emerging economies is pushing up demand for laser printers, while continued popularity of so-called mirrorless cameras is driving camera sales, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Toshizo Tanaka said at an earnings briefing.

For the January-March quarter, Canon said operating profit jumped 88.8 percent to 75.67 billion yen from 40.09 billion yen a year earlier.

That was above a consensus estimate of 58.80 billion yen from six analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

Tanaka also said the company is not in a situation to consider joining the bidding for Toshiba's prized flash memory unit.

Toshiba wants to sell most or all of the unit, the world's second-largest NAND chip maker behind Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. It has narrowed bidders to SK Hynix Inc, Western Digital Corp, Broadcom Ltd and Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd (Foxconn), people familiar with the process have told Reuters.

To keep the technology in Japan, however, the government is calling for domestic companies to join the bidding and team up with state-backed funds, sources have said.

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Canon EOS-77D APS-C DSLR Camera Review


Canon EOS-77D APS-C DSLR camera













Canon announced the Rebel T7i, EOS-800D and the EOS-77D all at once in February, 2017. The EOS-77D camera is situated somewhere between the Rebel T7i and EOS-80D. The list price difference between the models is about 150 to 200 U.S. dollars either way.

The EOS-77D is a good camera. It is a departure from the previous Rebel models and has features and layout similar to the EOS-XXD models. However, I am not sure why Canon needs to bring out the Rebel T7i for $150 less in list price and strip out some of the capabilities. Why add another name plate to the already crowded low end lineup? Just call the EOS-77D camera the new and improved Rebel T7i and really make that claim meaningful this time, instead of the old, tired cliche.  You can download a copy of the Owner Manual for your perusal and decide if you want to upgrade to this camera.

Many serious photographers are willing to pay $150 more than the Rebel T7i once they have seen the EOS-77D specs and have decided to upgrade from their Rebel T4i to T6i bodies. For these photographers to move up to the EOS-80D will require an additional $350 more than the Rebel T7i so paying an extra $150 and getting all the additional features of the EOS-77D make sense.

As The Wildlife Ho-tographer, the primarily cameras for my work are the EOS-1D X Mark IIEOS-1D Mark IV, EOS-5Ds and EOS-7D Mark II. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

EOS-77D Main Camera Specs :

  • 24.2 megapixel Canon APS-C CMOS imaging sensor
  • New 45-point all cross-type AF system. AF with f/8 aperture lens combinations
  • Top LCD Panel, Rear Control Dial, Multi-function Lock Switch and Auto Off Sensor
  • DIGIC 7 image processor
  • Built-in WiFi, NFC and Bluetooth
  • ISO 100-25600 (expandable to 51200)
  • 6 fps burst mode
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF 
  • Servo AF in Live View with continuous shooting at 4.5 fps
  • 1080/60p Full HD video in MP4 format
  • Vari-angle Touch Screen 3.0-inch, 1 million dot, Clear View LCD II monitor
  • EOS scene analysis system and new color tone detection
  • Light flicker detection and Anti-flicker shutter timing
  • Movie Electronic Image Stabilization
  • Intelligent viewfinder with liquid crystal overlay
  • Creative filters mode on the dial
  • Group Photo Special Scene Mode

Monday, April 24, 2017

30 Year History Of Canon EOS Camera System Video






Thirty years of Canon EOS camera history in a short video clip. My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer. I have been using Canon equipment for over a quarter of a century. Over the years, I have migrated from film to digital cameras but still kept my EOS-1 V, the state-of-the-art Canon film camera announced back in 2000.

The above video is a trip down memory lane for Canon owners. Through the decades, I have owned many Canon cameras. My first pro body was the EOS-1 in 1989. Then I bought the first Canon digital camera, the D30 in 2000 and the first 'affordable' full frame digital camera, the EOS-5D in 2005.

Currently, my main bodies are the EOS-1D X Mark IIEOS-1D Mark IV, EOS-5Ds and EOS-7D Mark II. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Friday, April 21, 2017

Sony Alpha A9 May Persuade Canon To Announce Their Own Full Frame Mirrorless Camera


Sony Alpha A9 full frame mirrorless camera


Size Comparison - Canon EOS-1D X Mark II vs Sony Alpha A9


My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer. I have been using Canon equipment for over a quarter of a century. Over the years, I have migrated from film to digital cameras but still kept my EOS-1 V, the state-of-the-art Canon film camera announced back in 2000.

Through the decades, I have owned many Canon cameras. My first pro body was the EOS-1 in 1989. Then I bought the first Canon digital camera, the D30 in 2000 and the first 'affordable' full frame digital camera, the EOS-5D in 2005.

Currently, my main bodies are the EOS-1D X Mark II, EOS-1D Mark IV, EOS-5Ds and EOS-7D Mark II. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

I have been an observer of Canon for many years now. It is a conservative company and rarely aims to be the first in introducing new technology. Instead, they concentrate on being the brand with the most reliable and state-of-the-art performance equipment.

One area Canon has been lagging behind its competitors is in the mirrorless camera space. It is no secret Sony has been pulling ahead of every competitor. Their highly successful A7 series has now been followed by the introduction of the new Alpha A9 model.

Sony Alpha A9 camera major specs

  • 24.2MP Full-Frame Stacked CMOS Sensor
  • BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI
  • 693-Point AF System & 20 fps Shooting
  • Blackout-Free Quad-VGA 3.7m-Dot OLED EVF
  • Internal UHD 4K Video Recording
  • 5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization
  • 3.0" 1.44m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • ISO 204,800, Silent Electronic Shutter
  • Built-In Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, Dual SD Slots
  • Integrated LAN and PC Sync Terminals

On paper, the Sony Alpha A9 camera specs look impressive. Of course many of these 'jaw dropping' features are written by marketing folks and are designed to grab the attention of readers. Although, the majority of professional sports and wildlife photographers will not dream of using a mirrorless camera for their work (including yours truly), there is a case for owning a high-end pro mirrorless body for various reasons, as far as I am concerned.

Canon already has a few variants of high-end, full frame mirrorless cameras in their labs and is deciding when to release the final version. Perhaps, the announcement of the Sony Alpha A9 should concentrate Canon's mind and persuade them to finally pull the trigger some time next year.

I know Canon's management has a lot on their plates. They have made it a priority to upgrade their Super Telephoto line of lens and introduce more Diffrative Optics lens models in time for the World's Cup in 2018, Rugby's World Cup in 2019 and Summer Olympics in 2020, both events will be held in Japan.

They are a big enough company to juggle multiple projects at one time and their high-end mirrorless camera project should be one that takes high priority along with the other tasks. I will be very interested in buying their pro model with the EF mount once it is announced.  

Canon Announced Free Firmware Upgrades For Three 4K Pro Display Models




MELVILLE, N.Y., April 20, 2017 – Demonstrating Canon’s continued commitment to supporting the digital cinema and television broadcasting industries, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan Inc., will make available free firmware upgrades for three of its professional 4K displays—the DP-V1710, DP-V2410 and DP-V2420 in June 2017.


Just before 2017 NAB Show, the new features include : 


Enhanced connectivity with Canon digital cinema cameras

The new firmware updates permit 4K RAW video captured using the EOS C700 or the EOS C700 GS PL (scheduled to be released July 2017) to be viewed directly on the display using only a 3G-SDI cable, without the need for an external transitional device. The firmware also makes possible the acquisition of all image data from video captured using the EOS C700, EOS C700 GS PL as well as the EOS C300 Mark II, enabling the display of image setting values from the connected camera and metadata.

Furthermore, these updates enable the display of the cinema aspect ratio 2.39:1 for specialized shooting using a digital cinema camera equipped with an anamorphic lens. The addition of these new features delivers enhanced user convenience when confirming images during shooting

Improved connectivity with ARRI digital cinema cameras
Thanks to these new firmware updates, users can simply connect an ARRI digital cinema camera to the DP-V1710, DP-V2410 or DP-V2420 4K Professional Display Models and view LOG C video in HDR. It is also no longer necessary to add an LUT to confirm video, for improved ease of use.

Expanded shooting-assist functions for HDR video

The new updates make possible the display of 4K video in both HDR and SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) simultaneously, using a vertical split-screen mode. What’s more, the updates make possible the downscaling and parallel display of 4K video as two separate images, enabling side-by-side comparisons of HDR and SDR images or HDR images and images with HDR shooting-assist functions applied.

Additionally, colors can now be overlaid on HDR video, with the color depending on the actual luminance of the video area, allowing for the visual confirmation of luminance distribution. 

Thursday, April 20, 2017

Canon Announced Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens






MELVILLE, N.Y., April 20, 2017 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce today the new COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens (model name CN-E 70-200mm T4.4 L IS KAS S), a compact and lightweight 4K lens constructed for users that demand versatility and portability. A bridge between traditional Canon EF lenses and CN-E cinema lenses, the COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm can be ideal for filmmakers and documentary shooters who want the control and quality of cinema optics with the lightweight, compact design and features of Canon’s EF lenses.

The second in a new class of Canon lenses, the COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens is a cinema-style lens that includes a servo drive unit as a standard feature. Additionally, the lens incorporates Image Stabilization, Autofocus, and Auto Iris functionality*, three extremely useful features not commonly found in cinema lenses, but are popular in EF lenses. The lens also provides high image quality that supports 4K image productions and was designed to be utilized in a variety of shooting styles including, hand-held, shoulder mounted, and tripod mounted.

“Canon prides itself on turning the ideas and thoughts from filmmakers about equipment into reality,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “We are very excited to expand our line of COMPACT-SERVO lenses, providing a variety of creators with an extremely versatile and affordable lens that features the outstanding build-quality and excellent optical performance that professionals have come to expect from Canon. We are excited to continue to build the COMPACT-SERVO line of lenses, and can’t wait to see what the imaging community creates.”

The new COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens is a 4K lens and features autofocus and optical image stabilization (with compatible camera models*), resulting in high-resolution imagery, with the ability to assist filmmakers in capturing the shot they envisioned. Compatible with EF-mount Super 35mm large-format cameras, the lens maintains brightness across the entire focal range at T4.4 (equal to f/4.0). The lens is also compatible with both the Canon EF 1.4x III (expanded focal range of 98-280mm) and EF 2x III (expanded focal range of 140mm-400mm) external extenders, expanding the focal range of the lens for additional versatility when the shooting situation calls for it.

For added convenience, cinematographers can control many of the features of the lens in a variety of ways through the EF-mount communication, including Dual Pixel CMOS AF, push auto iris, record start and stop and remote lens control via the camera with an optional remote control, compensation for chromatic aberration** and peripheral illumination, metadata acquisition, and selection of T-number display**.

The COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens features a nine-blade iris aperture diaphragm to help give footage a truly artistic and beautiful look and feel, providing the much desired “bokeh” effect in the out-of-focus areas.

The lens comes equipped with a Servo Drive Unit, which provides seamless switching between servo and manual modes, allowing videographers motorized control of focus, zoom, and iris settings. The Servo Drive Unit is compatible with broadcast style industry-standard lens controllers including Canon’s ZSD-300D zoom demand and FPD-400D focus demand. Like the Canon COMPACT-SERVO 18-80mm Zoom Lens, the ZSG-C10 accessory grip will be compatible with the new COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom lens, further enhancing ease-of-use for ENG and “run-and-gun” style shooters.

The grip connects to the lens through a 20-pin cable, allowing a variety of lens functions to be controlled from the grip, including zooming via a rocker switch, one-shot AF and the starting and stopping of a recording. When the lens and grip are being used with the EOS C100 Mark II, EOS C300 Mark II and EOS C700 Cinema Cameras, users will also have the ability to control the zoom and iris from the camera’s grip unit.

The Canon COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Zoom Lens is scheduled to be available later in 2017***. In addition, the ZSG-C10 accessory grip is currently available for an estimated retail price of $499. For more information please visit usa.canon.com/compactservo

Canon Announced Canon Log Feature Upgrade To EOS-5D Mark IV Camera











MELVILLE, N.Y., April 20, 2017 – In a move to help meet the demands of professional filmmakers, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the availability of a feature upgrade for the EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR camera that will add the ability to record with Canon Log. With this upgrade, the EOS 5D Mark IV can achieve a cinematic look similar to what can be achieved using Cinema EOS cameras, allowing it to serve as a second camera on a Cinema EOS shoot or to stand alone as a cinema camera.

Current EOS 5D Mark IV camera owners can have the Canon Log feature upgrade installed for $99 at any of the Canon service centers across the U.S. starting in July. The camera will also be available for sale (body only) with the feature upgrade pre-installed starting in July, with an estimated retail price of $3,599.00*.

Canon Log uses the image sensor’s characteristics in a way that allows for a wide dynamic range, minimal loss of detail in shadows and highlight areas and an increased range of choices when color grading. Color grading options available with Canon Log include optimized color saturation, accurate colors with minor color bias, visual continuity and accurate skin tones.

Canon Log also works with and complements several EOS 5D Mark IV camera features including 4K shooting, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, high speed 119.9p shooting in HD and 59.94p shooting in Full HD. Additional features include Movie Servo AF allowing the camera to focus on a subject even when the shutter button is not used, the ability to register custom shooting modes in Canon Log and movie shooting in Canon Log on a compatible iOS® or Android™ device using the free Canon Camera Connect app1.

To learn more about the feature upgrade and how to get it installed, please visit usa.canon.com/canonlog5d4

The EOS 5D Mark IV camera with Canon Log will be shown at the NAB show in Las Vegas, NV, April 24-27, in the Canon U.S.A., Inc. Booth #C4325 in the Central Hall of the LVCC. Follow Canon throughout the show on Instagram at @CanonUSA and Twitter at @CanonUSApro.

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Canon Dedicates Website To Total Solar Eclipse Photography




MELVILLE, N.Y., April 18, 2017 – On August 21, 2017, the Moon will pass between the Sun and the Earth, fully blocking the Sun from view for over two minutes to a large portion of the country. This natural phenomenon is called a total solar eclipse; this is the first one to race across the entire country in 99 years. The last one viewed in the United States occurred in 1979. Serving as a resource for all photographers interested in documenting these once-in-a-lifetime moments, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the launch of the Canon Eclipse Blog, “A Total Guide to Totality” (usa.canon.com/eclipse); a vital resource for anyone looking to capture what is likely to be the most photographed total solar eclipse to date.

The blog, co-authored by Canon Explorer of Light Ken Sklute and photographer Dave Henry, will feature a series of ongoing posts with helpful guidelines, images and videos that teach photographers of all skill levels how to capture the total solar eclipse including tips that may help protect your eyes and camera’s lenses and sensor. In addition to the blog, consumers can also learn and practice their photography skills in-person through specialized Canon Live Learning workshops at Canon facilities around the country.

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV, EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II, XC15 Win TIPA Awards



Canon EOS-5D Mark IV full frame camera


My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer. I have used Canon equipment for over a quarter of a century. Although the EOS-5D Mark IV is an excellent camera, I have not bought it because I use the EOS-1D X Mark II, EOS-1D Mark IV and EOS-5Ds as main bodies for my work.

I have taken the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II lens on a few wildlife photo tours and am very pleased with it. You can You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


TOKYO, April 19, 2017 - Two Canon cameras and one Canon lens have been recognized with “Best Photo and Imaging Product” awards by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA), representing 30 photo and imaging magazines from 15 countries across five continents. The three award winners are: the EOS 5D Mark IV digital SLR (DSLR) camera for advanced-amateur users, EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM standard zoom lens for advanced-amateur users and the XC15 professional 4K video camcorder. These Canon products were highly rated for meeting the diverse still shooting and video production needs of professional and advanced-amateur users.

Best Full-Frame DSLR Expert - Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Selected for this year’s “Best Full-Frame DSLR Expert” award, Canon’s EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR offers impressive specifications. Equipped with an approximately 30.4 megapixel 35 mm full-frame Canon CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6+ image processor, the camera achieves a standard ISO sensitivity range of 100-32000 (expandable to ISO50-102400 equivalent), 7 frames-per-second (fps) continuous shooting of still images and 4K video capture at 30 fps, as well as full-HD video capture at 60 fps and HD 120 fps capture suitable for slow-motion video. Thanks to Dual Pixel CMOS AF, the camera achieves superlative high-speed AF tracking when shooting video and stills in live-view mode.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is equipped with 61 point high-density reticular AF II, achieving an expanded longitudinal focus area, with a maximum of 41 cross-type focus points of the total 61. Additionally, it features an approximately 150,000 pixel RGB+IR metering sensor. The camera also features a 4K frame capture function, which users can extract selected frames from recorded 4K video as approximately 8.8-megapixel JPEG still images, as well as built-in Wi-Fi, NFC and GPS functionality.

Best DSLR Standard Zoom Lens - Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM

Named “Best DSLR Standard Zoom Lens,” the EF 24-105 f/4L IS II USM employs a new optical design that incorporates 17 elements in 12 groups, including four glass-molded aspherical elements—one of which features two aspherical surfaces. This standard zoom lens achieves improved peripheral light intake to achieve high image quality across the entire image field.

The lens features image stabilization to the effect of 4 shutter speed stops and a circular 10-blade aperture that produces exquisite circular bokeh. Equipped with such features as inner focusing, a Ring USM (Ultrasonic Motor) and a high-speed CPU, and sporting an optimized AF algorithm, the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM achieves highly responsive autofocusing. The lens also employs a special Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which reduces the occurrences of flaring and ghosting.

Best Camcorder - Canon XC15

Crowned “Best Camcorder,” the XC15 features a compact, lightweight body design and makes possible cost-effective 4K UHD and HD shooting, making it ideal for on-location journalism and video production. The camera facilitates shooting in confined spaces and environments that demand mobility and features the same selection of visual-expression “Look” modes as the EOS C300 Mark II, making it ideal for use as a sub-camera. The XC15 is equipped with a high-sensitivity 1-inch CMOS sensor with individual pixels that feature large light-capturing areas, a touch panel that enables intuitive controls, and a 10x optical zoom lens—27.3 mm at the wide end to 273 mm at the telephoto end when shooting video.

The camera features faster autofocus through an orientation-determination algorithm, and enables excellent anti-shake performance afforded by an optical IS system and an electronic IS system with 3 modes to choose from. What’s more, the camera’s separate focus and zoom rings offer a high level operability.

Held every year since 1991, the TIPA Awards recognize the best photo and imaging products announced during the previous 12 months based on such criteria as innovativeness, use of leading-edge technologies, design and ease-of-use. In 1992, Canon took home its first TIPA accolade for the EOS 100 SLR camera and, over 25 separate occasions since then, has been honored with TIPA awards for a total of 81 products and technologies*.

*Includes the EOS D2000, jointly developed with Eastman Kodak, winner of the 1998-1999 TIPA Best Pro Digital Camera award.

Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Apple iPhone 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S8 - Who Is Ahead?





Apple iPhone 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S8 - Major Specs Comparison

iPhone 8 - Rumored Specs
  • Three new models including two minor "S" upgrades plus an all-new iPhone 8
  • Display : 4.7, 5.5 and 5.8in  2436x1125 Curved OLED 
  • Storage : 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB
  • CPU and RAM : A11 processor, 3-4GB RAM
  • Front Camera : 8MP
  • Rear Camera : 12MP dual-lens, dual-OIS, 4K video recording
  • Extras : Iris scanner, Wireless charging, Fingerprint reader, Bluetooth 5.0
  • Curved, edge-to-edge OLED display with True Tone technology and/or Ion-X glass
  • Virtual home button with integrated Touch ID
  • Touch ID alternative via iris scanning and/or facial recognition 
  • "Wireless" charging (inductive/magnetic charging, as with the Apple Watch)
  • Dual-lens camera, possibly in a vertical configuration
  • AR capabilities featuring rear-facing 3D laser for enhanced depth perception 
  • Support for the Apple Pencil
  • Stainless steel and glass body
  • Four or more colors including a reflective, mirror-like option
  • Upgraded storage and memory, possibly starting at 64GB and 3GB of RAM
  • Intel or Qualcomm modem
  • iOS 11 (preview)
  • Superfast charging via USB-C connection
  • Enhanced water resistance or waterproofing
  • Higher quality earpiece for louder, clearer audio
  • Apple's next-generation processor (the A10X or A11)
  • List price around $1,000 to $1,200

Samsung Galaxy S8 - Announced
  • Display : 5.8 and 6.2in  2960x1440 Super AMOLED Display
  • Storage : 64GB internal, 256GB expandable
  • CPU and RAM : Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 / Exynos 8895 Processor, 4GB RAM
  • Front Camera : 8MP with autofocus
  • Rear Camera : 12MP, 4K video recording, optical image stabilization.
  • Extras : Iris scanner, Wireless charging, Fingerprint reader, Bluetooth 5.0

CPU and Memory

Apple's iPhone 8 is rumored to be powered by the new A11 processor and M11 motion-coprocessor. How does that compare to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 or Samsung Exynos 8895 processor in the Galaxy S8?

TSMC is reportedly making Apple’s 10-nanometer chipset. Production is rumored to start this spring. The new chipset Apple and may boast a 20% speed gain and 40% power reduction compared to the older 16-nanometer technology.

Both phones are expected to be evenly matched when it comes to RAM - 4GB each. The iPhone 8 is expected to have more internal RAM (256GB) but the S8, with its built-in 64GB RAM can match and even exceed the iPhone 8, once external memory is included because it can support up to a 256GB mini SD card.

Display

The new iPhone 8's screen may come in three sizes - 4.7, 5.5, and 5.8 inches. However, only the high end model may have the curved OLED screen, like the current Samsung S7 Edge but the new S8 and S8 Plus have the curved, Super AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2960 x 1440.

Camera

Both Apple iPhone 8 and Samsung S8 models will have a 8MP front camera but the S8 has autofocus. The rear camera will have a 12MP resolution but the iPhone 8 is rumored to have the 12MP dual lens. Apple is planning to take the crown in the area of smartphone photography.

Extra Features

The iPhone 8 is expected to have an iris scanner, fingerprint reader and wireless charging but the S8, with its own iris scanner, plans to take biometrics to an even higher level.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

With the acquisition of Viv Labs and the original creators of Siri under Samsung's umbrella, the S8's will come with the new AI Digital Assistant, Bixby.

Bixby will soon be introudced into all of Samsung's HDTVs, watches, tablets, etc. It is Samsung’s answer to Siri, Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa.

Who will have the Lead?

With the debacle of the Galaxy Note 7 in the rear view mirror, Samsung is determined to reverse its fortune with the S8 and S8 Plus. With its impressive phone shipping this month, they will have an approximate 6 months lead ahead of Apple.

The Apple iPhone 8's announcement may be delayed due to challenges around its 3-D sensing technology, difficulties with embedding the fingerprint reader on the front of the phone and shortage of OLED screens but still in time for the all important Christmas holidays. In the meantime, Apple is relying on the iPhone 7S and iPhone 7S Plus to keep customers from switching to Samsung.

Samsung is salivating about converting some of the current Apple iPhone 7 users to their new phone. When the iPhone 8 debuts some time in Q4, Samsung will already have the new Galaxy Note 8 (debut August 23) to challenge Apple again.


Samsung Galaxy Note 8 with dual cameras

Samsung Galaxy Note 8 possible specs

  • IP68 water and dust certification, like all recent premium Galaxy smartphones
  • Massive 6.3-inch ‘SuperAMOLED’ Infinity Display with minimal bezels
  • New 18.5:9 aspect ratio with 1440 x 2960 (2K) native resolution
  • Design will be more “squared off” (incl. display corners) compared to Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus
  • Device dimensions of 162.5mm x 74.6mm x 8.5mm
  • Globally it ships with the Exynos 8895 chipset with exception of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 in the US
  • 6GB RAM as standard versus 4GB in Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus (some limited 6GB editions were Asia-only exclusives)
  • 64GB of internal storage
  • MicroSD expansion slot retained
  • Rear dual cameras: 12 megapixel, f/1.7 aperture, dual pixel and 12 megapixel, f/2.4 aperture with 2x optical zoom. Optical image stabilisation on both modules
  • Front camera - 8 megapixel, f1.7 aperture
  • 3300mAh battery
  • Quick Charging and Wireless Charging via USB Type-C
  • Midnight Black, Maple Gold, Orchid Grey and Deep Sea Blue color options
  • European pricing around €1,000. About $1,000+ in the U.S.

Some observers say with the advent of ever smarter phones and their built-in cameras, they may even threaten the survival of point-n-shoot and DSLR cameras. Take a look at the video above to see some of the best smartphone cameras on the market now. Read my earlier post on this thought.

Monday, April 17, 2017

Canon To Announce CN-E 70-200mm Cinema Lens At NAB 2017


Canon Cinema CN-E 70-200mm lens


As reported earlier, Canon is expected to announce a major firmware upgrade to the EOS-5D Mark IV camera this week and the Cinema CN-E 70-200mm lens just before the NAB Show on April 22 in Las Vegas.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV Firmware Version 1.0.4 Released




As reported in my earlier post, Canon has released firmware version 1.0.4 for the EOS 5D Mark IV camera but this is not the major upgrade version with C-Log. That one will come soon.

Firmware Version 1.0.4 incorporates the following fixes and improvements :

  • Fixes a phenomenon in which a red-colored area may appear at the bottom-center of a captured image when shooting in bulb mode or during a long exposure.
  • Fixes a phenomenon in which the autofocus may not respond when the autofocus is initiated via pressing the shutter button, the AF-ON button or the AE lock button when configured in the custom control menu.
  • Enhances the reliability of communications between the camera and SD card.
  • Fixes incorrect wording on the Finnish language menu screen.

Download firmware v1.0.4 for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

Canon Explains Dual Pixel Autofocus (DPAF) Technology


Whether you’re an amateur still photographer or a one-person video production crew, focus is critical to a successful shoot. Autofocus systems in previous generations did a passable job overall, but increased demands and more sophisticated technologies called for a more comprehensive solution.

That’s why, in 2013, Canon introduced Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus. We believe it’s a game changer for both video and still shooters. The benefits of Dual Pixel Autofocus (or DPAF) for shooters of all experience levels are vast and diverse. This article will explain the capabilities of DPAF, as well as outline several real-world examples of just how groundbreaking this new technology can be for your photographic projects.

What is DPAF?

Dual Pixel AutoFocus first appeared in the EOS 70D. Its successor, the EOS 80D, is a DSLR model that sits comfortably in between the professional and intermediate areas of the Canon line. Dual Pixel Auto Focus was later introduced to the Cinema EOS line in the C100 and C300 cameras, as well as on the 7D Mark II and several other more recent models including the EOS M5 and M6.




Put simply, DPAF takes autofocus to the next level. It provides both smooth and consistent focus for a wide range of photo and video applications. Each pixel on the CMOS imaging sensor has two separate, light-sensitive photodiodes, which convert light into an electronic signal.  Independently, each half of a pixel detects light through separate micro lenses, atop each pixel.  During AF detection, the two halves of each pixel -- the two photodiodes -- send separate signals, which are analyzed for focus information.  Then, an instant later when an actual image or video frame is recorded, the two separate signals from each pixel are combined into one single one, for image capturing purposes. This greatly improves AF speed over the majority of the area on which you’re focusing. The result is phase-detection autofocus, which surveys the scene and recognizes not only whether a subject is in focus or not, but in which direction (near or far), and by how much.

On current models, approximately 80% of the viewfinder’s shooting area - both horizontally and vertically - is covered by DPAF, so as long as the subject remains in that sweet spot, the result will be razor-sharp, continuous autofocus. DPAF also excels in tracking a moving subject in both video and still modes, rarely suffering that super-frustrating moment where your camera starts hunting for a new focal point. With many competitive systems reading autofocus from the imaging sensor, scattered, individual pixels are used exclusively for phase-detection AF (and often, these are not used at all for image capture).  With Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF, a huge difference is EVERY pixel on the sensor can provide AF information, and then be capable of capturing actual image data an instant later.  Figuratively speaking, instead of hundreds of potential "focus points," DPAF is a system with millions of focus detection points.




Do it all Yourself with DPAF

Many DSLR video users — such as vloggers, documentary or short filmmakers — are pretty much a crew of one. They don’t have the luxury of a ton of equipment, and most likely don’t have the budget to bring along an old-school focus puller/first AC, solely dedicated to handling the task of keeping the subject sharp.

However, with a camera featuring DPAF, such as the EOS 7D Mark II, for example, a whole world of shot opportunities open up to a single video shooter. It allows subject tracking across great distances, hardly ever losing focus when another object briefly passes in front of the subject. In most cases, whether you’re moving, or the subject is moving, or both, you can rest assured that you’ll get a super-sharp image. Even unwanted subjects that are much closer to the camera than the primary subject will be largely ignored by the DPAF system, until they completely obscure or convincingly overtake the frame.

You’ve Got the Touch / Lock it up

DPAF can be utilized in several ways depending on the camera model and mode selected. On the EOS-1D X Mark II, for instance, the high-resolution touch panel monitor display lets the user acquire focus on a specific area of the frame. For the EOS 70D, a simple tap on the touchscreen will switch the focus point from one section to another. The EOS 7D Mark II makes use of a joystick to move the autofocus point.

Using AF Lock allows you to halt continuous DPAF at any time, re-compose your shot, and shoot or record video with focus locked at that distance. No matter what model you have or mode you’ve chosen, options in the camera settings allow you to take further advantage of DPAF capabilities.

Into the Wild

For photographers and videographers who primarily capture fast-moving subjects — sports, wildlife, and/or children — DPAF can be a lifesaver. Get your subject in that 80% of the viewfinder, and let DPAF do the rest. Once you’ve indicated your preferred focal point — that speedy wide receiver sprinting down the field, that majestic eagle soaring above, your 5-year-old daughter performing her favorite dance routine — DPAF will track the motion and capture a crystal-clear still shot or video.

But what if someone or something gets in the way of your intended subject? With some higher-end EOS cameras with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, you have excellent in-camera control of how AF will act in these situations.  When set to video recording and with Movie Servo AF enabled, Movie Servo AF Tracking Sensitivity can be adjusted change how quickly the AF will try to re-focus on a sudden new subject.  Changing the sensitivity toward the Locked on direction means it will tend to resist unwanted changes.  And moving in the Responsive direction will make the Movie Servo AF respond more quickly to new subjects -- such as when quickly panning from one subject to a completely different one.  You'll find this in cameras like the EOS 80D, 7D Mark II, and EOS 5D Mark IV.

Go Live

Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Live View shooting for still pictures go together like peanut butter and jelly.  Any time you're working on a tripod, or any situation where it's not easy to look into the eye-level viewfinder, Live View can make life a lot easier.  And DPAF completely changes the Live View shooting experience.  It's fast, responsive and positive.

Cameras with touchscreen LCD monitors, like the EOS 80D and 5D Mark IV, make it possible to simply tap your subject on the screen, and DPAF can immediately focus upon it.  Tap on a different part of the scene, and it re-focuses again, smoothly and positively.  The combination of Live View and DPAF may have you looking for opportunities to use a tripod, once you've experienced it.  And cameras with swiveling Vari-angle LCD monitors, like the EOS 80D and 77D, underscore this -- making it easy to shoot at high and low angles, even when hand-holding.

Come Face to Face with True Face Detection

Face detection is a feature that has been offered on professional and consumer cameras for many years, but has often been hampered by the limitations of the existing technology. With previous AF systems using fixed locations for AF points, photographers had to pick the closest point overlying the detected face. That could lead to some uncomfortable shifting of either photographer or subject.

However, with Dual Pixel AutoFocus, face detection has very few limitations. If the face you’re looking to lock in on is within the aforementioned 80% of the viewfinder, the DPAF system will locate it, place a focal point on it, and hold focus on the face throughout a wide range of motion. You’ll be able to capture a friendly face without worrying if that face has strayed too far from an AF point, since you’ve conveniently created one right on top of it.

Get in Close

Macro photographers can take full advantage of DPAF as well. Still life shots set up on a tripod will be sharp every single time. You can select a single orange in that bowl of fruit you’re shooting, and that’ll be the orange that shines the brightest.

And if you’re interested in adding a higher degree of difficulty — depending on what you’re working with gear-wise — you can track that same orange if the camera is shifted, or even if someone literally picks up the orange and moves it somewhere else (provided it’s within that 80% range on the viewfinder, of course).

Your Lenses Will Love DPAF

The DPAF system is compatible with more than 100 Canon EF and EF-S lenses, including prime, wide-angle, telephoto and super telephoto lenses. That means your camera bag likely contains a lens or two that will work in lockstep with DPAF.

And if your lens arsenal includes Canon's STM lenses, or those with Nano USM — specially designed to be near-silent when in operation — you can deploy DPAF to capture breathtaking video footage while also maintaining high-quality in-camera audio.

No matter what your specialty or shooting preferences are, the Dual Pixel AutoFocus system has something great to offer. It took a total reimagining of a camera’s autofocus capabilities, and has resulted in an outright dismissal of a lot of assumptions about DSLR photography. No longer should the optical viewfinder be seen as the “right way” to take photos, nor should Live View be deemed an inferior function. DPAF also opens up a wide range of options in DSLR movie mode that were previously beyond the skill set of an amateur or intermediate videographer. In short, DPAF changes what is possible for photographers and videographers of all skill levels, and creates new and exciting forms of photographic expression.

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV Camera - $2,750 With Free Shipping


Canon EOS-5D Mark IV full frame 30MP camera

Summary specs for Canon EOS-5D Mark IV camera

  • 30.4MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
  • DIGIC 6+ Image Processor
  • 3.2″ 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor
  • DCI 4K Video at 30 fps; 8.8MP Still Grab
  • 61-Point High Density Reticular AF
  • Native ISO 32000, Expanded to ISO 102400
  • Dual Pixel RAW; AF Area Select Button
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Movie Servo AF
  • 7 fps Shooting; CF & SD Card Slots
  • Built-In GPS and Wi-Fi with NFC

There is a top-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mark IV camera for $2,750 including free shipping. Hurry, it won't last. This is a very good deal. Read my post and view Canon plus other videos of the camera by clicking on the tab above. By the way, the EOS-5D Mark IV is scheduled to receive a major firmware upgrade very soon to add C-Log and other features.

You will not find a link to this item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find it on eBay yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can see travel and wildlife photos taken with this camera's more robust cousin, the EOS-5Ds (50MP sensor) on my worldwide photo tours on MichaelDanielHo.com

What Is Your Favorite Canon Camera & Lens Combo and Why


Golden-hooded Tanager in Costa Rica

I am back from my Costa Rica Wildlife Photo Tour. It was quite a good trip and I got some very good Hummer photos. Now comes the tough part of processing the pics and getting back to the rhythm of things and writing my blog again.

On that score, I have decided to add a discussion forum on this blog as an experiment and connect further with my readers. Any feedback and comments are welcome.

My readers know I am The Wildlife Ho-tographer and have used Canon equipment for over a quarter of a century. Over the years, I have found some equipment to be more versatile than others and they always seem to find their way into my equipment bag every time I am on a wildlife photo tour anywhere in the world.

I am sure you have the same experience as well. So, the first topic of discussion in our new forum is, your favorite equipment. Please tell us.

What is your favorite Canon camera & lens combo and why

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Adobe Released Lightroom CC 2015.10 & Camera Raw 9.10 Updates




Adobe released Lightroom CC 2015.10 and Camera Raw 9.10 updates for iOS and Android. The goal of this release is to provide additional camera raw support, lens profile support and address bugs that were introduced in previous releases of Lightroom.

New Camera Support in Lightroom CC 2015.10 / 6.10 :

  • Canon EOS M6
  • Canon EOS Digital Rebel T7i (EOS 800D, EOS Kiss X9i)
  • Canon EOS 77D (EOS 9000D)
  • Support for other new Canon lenses was also added

Installation Instructions 

Camera Raw 9.10 – Please select Help>Updates to use the update mechanism in the Creative Cloud app.

Please note – If you have trouble updating to the latest Camera Raw update via the Creative Cloud application, please refer to the following plugin installation :

DNG Converter 9.10 download links: Win | macOS 

Monday, April 10, 2017

What To Expect From Canon For NAB and Beyond


Silver-throated Tanager in Costa Rica

I am back from my Costa Rica Wildlife Photo Tour. It was quite a good tour and I got some very good Hummer photos. Now comes the tough part of processing the pics and getting back to the rhythm of things and writing my blog again.

The NAB Show starts April 22 in Las Vegas. This show features the latest in video and broadcasting equipment and technologies. Canon is expected to announce a new Cinema zoom lens for their camcorders plus a less expensive version of the C300 Mark II camera will be introduced later this year. A new EF 85mm f/1.4L IS lens is also coming.

Also the major firmware update to the EOS-5D Mark IV will be announced around the Show as well. For what to expect from Canon for the remaining of this year and beyond, read my earlier post on this subject.

Sunday, April 9, 2017

Understanding Camera Basics - What Is Aperture?


Deep Purple in Tree

I am back from my Costa Rica Wildlife Photo Tour. It was quite a good tour and I got some very good Hummer photos. Now comes the tough part of processing the pics and getting back to the rhythm of things and writing my blog again.

 You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The first thing that I want to post is a refresher for those who want to know more about aperture. Of course, aperture, shutter speed and ISO are all integrally related in order to get the optimal exposure and desired effect of a photo.


Thursday, April 6, 2017

Canon Announced PowerShot SX730 HS Camera





MELVILLE, N.Y., April 6, 2017 – Ideal for families on vacation or parents at their kids’ sporting event looking for a convenient, easy-to- carry compact digital camera capable of producing high quality photos and videos at long distances, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, introduced today the new PowerShot SX730 HS digital camera. This new digital camera boasts a 20.3 Megapixel* CMOS imaging sensor and a powerful 40x Optical Zoom lens (equivalent to 24-960mm) in a form factor that easily fits in a pocket, making it an outstanding camera for budding photographers to capture gorgeous imagery no matter where they are.

With new features such as a convenient Self-Portrait and Smooth Skin mode, 3.0-inch LCD screen that rotates up 180 degrees and built-in connectivity capabilities like Wi-Fi®1, NFC2 and Bluetooth®3 technology, it’s now easier and more convenient than ever to use Canon digital cameras to share images and videos on the go, making the PowerShot SX730 HS digital camera a great transitional camera for those looking to use something other or move from a smartphone.

“We live in a very connected world and want to give people the power to zoom in from far away to capture amazing scenes from a distance, while also being able to share those images in real time,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “The new Canon PowerShot SX730 HS digital camera will help photographers effortlessly capture memories, even from great distances and conveniently share their fun with friends and family.”

As the successor to Canon’s PowerShot SX720 HS digital compact camera, the PowerShot SX730 HS digital camera also features:

  • Powerful 40x Optical Zoom with Zoom Framing Assist
  • Sleek, Lightweight and Pocket-size Design
  • Built-in Wi-Fi®1, NFC2 and Bluetooth®3 technology
  • 3 Megapixel* CMOS sensor
  • DIGIC 6 Image Processor
  • 0-inch Tilt-type (180° up) LCD
  • 1080p Full HD Video at 60p
  • Self Portrait Mode
  • Story Highlights
  • Geotag4 ; Date Stamp Options

Canon’s PowerShot SX730 HS digital camera is scheduled to be available in June 2017 for an estimated retail price of $399.99.

Canon Announced EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM Lens






MELVILLE, N.Y., April 6, 2017 – Compact and lightweight, the new Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM, announced today by Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is the widest-angle Macro offering in Canon’s popular EF-S lens series. The new lens is designed to help both entry-level and advanced amateur DSLR photographers discover the incredible possibilities of macro photography. Capable of capturing close-up subjects with incredible detail, Canon’s new EF-S macro lens is also the first in the series to feature built-in Macro Lites that allow users to control lighting with ease.

“Macro lenses are an amazing way to explore the worlds that exist all around us, and the new Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM lens is the ideal starting point for amateur photographers eager to capture incredible, up-close details on the go,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Whether capturing a delectable dessert or the subtleties of a backyard flower, users will be challenged to find new colors and shapes that turn everyday moments into art.”

The new Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM captures stunning images and is a terrific companion lens for entry-level users eager to expand beyond their existing Canon EOS DSLR kit lens. Capable of shooting as close as 30mm from the end of the lens to the subject, aspiring photographers can get up close to a fruit or flower for an entirely new perspective, while capturing high-quality images with beautiful background blur.

Additional technologies built into the new Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM lens include:

  • Popular 35mm focal length (56mm equivalent) and wide f/2.8 aperture
  • Hybrid IS system offers up to four stops* of shake correction
  • Smooth Movie Servo AF with Lead Screw-type STM ensures quiet AF operation
  • Full-time Manual Focus

In a first for the EF-S lens series, the new Canon EF-S 35mm lens sports built-in Macro Lites that allow photographers to carefully arrange macro lighting without using special equipment. With built-in LED lights on each side of the lens, users can create compelling shadows on either side of a subject or adjust intensity to give images a sense of dimension. Once the scene is set, the lens uses superb rendering performance to capture high contrast, sharp images.

While specialized for high magnification photography, the Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM is still a versatile option for day-to-day use, easily capable of capturing portraits, landscapes or snapshots. As the latest addition to the lineup of EF-S lenses, Canon continues its commitment to providing a wide-range of affordable lens options for photographers of all levels.

The Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in June 2017 for an estimated retail price of $349.99.

Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM Lens & PowerShot SX730 Camera


Happiness is Motherhood

I am still on my Wildlife Photo Tour in Costa Rica. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM lens image has leaked. It will be announced this week. The PowerShot SX 730 has also leaked and it has a 40x zoom lens, roughly equivalent to 1000mm