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Friday, August 31, 2018

Canon EOS-R Camera and Lenses Announcement For September 5, 2018




Keep checking back often as the EOS-R camera specs begin to appear. I am still waiting for more news on the professional model.

Monday, August 27, 2018

Canon May Announce Full Frame Mirrorless Camera First Week Of September



There is a better than even chance Canon will announce a full frame mirrorless camera the first week of September, much earlier than the Photokina Show in Germany in late September.

If accurate, it may not be the professional, full frame mirrorless camera many pro photographers (including myself) have been waiting for to challenge the Sony A7 and A9 plus the recently announced Nikon Z6 and Z7 full frame cameras.

Stay tune and keep checking back often. In the next few days, we should get some credible leaks if this is turning out to be true. The following specs may have some credence to them.

  • Mid 20+MP full frame sensor
  • Dual Pixel Auto Focus
  • IBIS (In Body Image Stabilisation)
  • 10fps shooting
  • 4k@30fps
  • 1080p@60fps
  • Just below $2,000 in the US
  • New mirrorless to be called EOS-R
  • New RF mount. May be able to accept EF lens as well. Check out video below.


Thursday, August 23, 2018

Nikon Announced Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras and New S Line of Lenses
















MELVILLE, NY – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the full-frame (Nikon FX–format) Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6 mirrorless cameras, as well as NIKKOR Z lenses, featuring a new, larger-diameter mount to enable the next generation of ultimate optical performance. 

Mirrorless Reinvented 

The new Nikon Z mount system is comprised of mirrorless cameras and compatible NIKKOR Z lenses and accessories. This system has been realized through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance. It has inherited Nikon’s tradition of quality, superior imaging technology, intuitive operability and high reliability, all innovated from its digital SLR cameras. 

At the heart of the Z mount system is the new, larger-diameter mount, which unlocks further possibilities of lens design. The Z mount system will offer a variety of high-performance lenses, including the fastest lens in Nikon history, with f/0.951. Additionally, the new mount adapter will enable compatibility with NIKKOR F mount lenses, adding to the range of choices for photographers. 

The letter “Z” represents the culmination of Nikon’s relentless pursuit of ultimate optical performance, and a bridge to a new chapter. It is about redefining possibilities to provide image makers with tools to pursue greater creativity. 

Nikon will expand the value of mirrorless cameras through the pursuit of a new dimension in optical performance, and by upholding Nikon’s tradition of quality while responding to the evolution of imaging technology. By providing image makers with stimulating new products, Nikon will continue to lead imaging culture. 

Z 7 and Z 6 Product Overview 

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with built-in focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 6. 

The high-resolution Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports a standard sensitivity range of ISO 64–25600. In combination with NIKKOR Z lenses, the camera achieves an outstanding level of sharpness and detail, all the way to the edges of the image. 

The versatile Z 6 is an all-purpose FX-format camera with 24.5 effective megapixels, and supports the wide sensitivity range of ISO 100–51200. With superior performance at high ISO sensitivities and full-frame 4K UHD video capture with full pixel readout, the Z 6 responds to a variety of needs, such as shooting in dimly lit environments and high-quality movie recording. 

These two models combine legendary Nikon reliability and a familiar interface with the benefits of a mirrorless, including rapid FPS, hybrid AF, silent shooting and advanced multimedia capabilities. 

Primary Features of the Z 7 and Z 6  
  • Equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels
  • The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a new backside illumination, Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 6. The Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels and supports ISO 64–25600 range of standard sensitivities (reduction to the equivalent of ISO 32 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 102400 is also possible). The Z 6 has an effective pixel count of 24.5 megapixels, and supports a broad range of standard sensitivities, from ISO 100–51200 (additional reduction to the equivalent of ISO 50 and expansion to the equivalent of ISO 204800).
  • A fast and accurate hybrid AF system with focus points covering approximately 90% of the imaging area
  • The Z 7 has 493 focus points2 and the Z 6 has 273 focus points2, enabling broad coverage of approximately 90% of the imaging area both horizontally and vertically. This hybrid AF system uses an algorithm optimized for the FX-format sensor, to automatically switches between focal-plane phase-detection AF and contrast-detect AF when focusing to achieve focus. Newly-designed NIKKOR Z lenses take full advantage of this system, providing faster, quieter and with increased AF accuracy than previously possible for both still images and videos.
  • The new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine for sharp and clear imaging, and new functions that support creativity
  • The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with the new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine. Employing the superior resolving power of NIKKOR Z and NIKKOR F mount lenses, subjects are rendered more sharply than ever before. Noise is also effectively reduced. Additionally, a mid-range sharpening option has been added to Picture Control sharpness parameters. This option, along with existing sharpening and clarity parameters, allows users to make various textures within the screen sharper or softer, for both still images and video3. The cameras also offer 20 options of Creative Picture Control, supporting creative imaging expression. The effect level is adjustable from 0 to 100.
  • An electronic viewfinder that utilizes Nikon's superior optical and image-processing technologies to offer a clear and natural view
  • The electronic viewfinder adopted for the Z 7 and Z 6 is comfortable and easy to use, comparable to optical viewfinders. Both cameras are equipped with an electronic viewfinder for which an approximately 3690k-dot OLED panel has been adopted. The electronic viewfinder has frame coverage and magnification of approximately 100% and 0.8×, respectively, as well as an approximately 37.0° diagonal viewing angle. It draws on Nikon's superior optical technologies and image-processing technologies, ensuring a clear and comfortable view, with reduced aberration and minimum eyestrain, even during extended shoots. Furthermore, a fluorine coat that effectively repels dirt has been applied to the eyepiece protection window. In addition, the menu can be displayed in the electronic viewfinder, allowing users to quickly view and adjust a variety of shooting settings, including ISO sensitivity, AF-area mode, and Picture Control, all while looking through the viewfinder.
  • An ergonomic design unique to Nikon that enables intuitive and familiar operation
  • The Z 7 and Z 6 have inherited the superior operability that Nikon has cultivated over the years through its development of cameras. The bodies are compact, while boasting a firm grip that is easy to hold, and the sub-selector and buttons such as AF-ON, ISO, and exposure compensation are all placed so that they can be operated swiftly and easily. Additionally, a display panel has been placed on the top plate of the camera, where information about settings can be displayed, similar to high-end digital SLR camera models.
  • Video functions such as 10-bit N-Log that enables wide dynamic range, and timecoding that respond to professional needs
  • The Z 7 and Z 6 support recording of not only full-frame 4K UHD (3840 × 2160)/30p movies using the FX-based video format, but also Full-HD/120p movies. Sharper 4K UHD movies are made possible, using the full-pixel readout4. Additionally, Active D-Lighting, electronic vibration reduction, and focus peaking can be used with 4K UHD and Full-HD movie recording. Nikon’s original N-Log color profile can also be used with 10-bit5 HDMI output. The N-Log setting utilizes extensive color depth and twelve-stop, 1,300% dynamic range to record a wealth of tone information from highlights and shadows for more effective color grading. Timecode support makes synchronizing video and sound from multiple devices easier. Additionally, the control ring built into NIKKOR Z lenses can be used to quietly and smoothly adjust settings such as aperture and exposure compensation.
  • Nikon's first6 in-camera vibration reduction with approx. 5.0-stop7 effectiveness
  • The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with in-camera vibration reduction (VR). The VR unit provides compensation for movement along five axes. The effects of vibration reduction are equivalent to a shutter speed up to approximately 5.0 stops6. This function can also be used effectively with NIKKOR F lenses, including those not equipped with a VR function, with the Mount Adapter FTZ (sold separately)8.


Other features
  • Same level of strength and durability, as well as dust- and drip- resistance, as the Nikon D850, offered in a compact body
  • A 3.2-in., approximately 2100k-dot touch-sensitive LCD monitor, with a tilting mechanism
  • Silent photography function eliminates shake and noise caused by shutter release,
  • Peaking stack image function9 enables confirmation of the area in focus after shooting using focus shift, which is convenient for focus stacking10
  • High-speed continuous shooting (extended)11 at approximately 9 fps (Z 7) and 12 fps (Z 6) captures fast motion
  • Interval timer photography that makes 8K (Z 7) time-lapse movie creation10 possible
  • An extended low-light metering range12 allows users to easily capture scenes such as the transition from sunset to starry night sky, using aperture-priority auto exposure
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for direct connection to a smart device using SnapBridge
  • Built-in Wi-Fi makes the transfer of images and movies to a computer possible
  • Support for existing digital SLR camera accessories such as the EN-EL15/a/b batteries, WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (available separately) for transferring images and movies at high speed over a wired or wireless LAN, and radio-controlled/optical controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting, which makes flexible multi-flash photography possible


Development of the MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack 

The MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack that is currently in development will hold two EN-EL15b, effectively increasing the number of shots possible and/or movie recording time by approximately 1.8×. It will provide the same level of dust and drip resistance as the Z 7 and Z 6, and will support USB charging using the EH-7P Charging AC Adapter. Information regarding the release of this product will be announced at a later date. 

Price and Availability 

The Nikon Z 7 will be available September 27 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $3399.95* for the body-only configuration, or for $3999.95 SRP as a kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-70 f/4 S lens. The Nikon Z 6 will be available in late November for the $1995.95 SRP for the body only configuration, or for the $2,599.95 SRP with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens kit. 





NIKKOR Z 24 - 70 mm f / 4 S
  • Representation performance renewing the image of the previous open f / 4 zoom lens
  • Achieve the shortest shooting distance of 0.3 m across the zoom range
  • Approximately 500 g
  • Suggested retail price: 136,500 yen + tax
  • Scheduled release date: late September, 2018




NIKKOR Z 35 mm f / 1.8 S
  • Representation performance renewing image of 35 mm open f / 1.8 lens so far
  • Quiet, high-speed, high-precision AF control realized with a newly adopted multifocus system
  • About 370 g
  • Suggested retail price: 114,000 yen + tax
  • Scheduled release date: late September, 2018




NIKKOR Z 50 mm f / 1.8 S
  • Representation performance renewing image of 50 mm open f / 1.8 lens so far
  • On-axis chromatic aberration is thoroughly corrected, and from the opening of the diaphragm, the texture of the subject is also depicted in the peripheral portion of the image
  • Approximately 415 g
  • Suggested retail price: 83,500 yen + tax
  • Scheduled release date: late October 2018




AF-S NIKKOR 500 mm f / 5.6 E PF ED VR
  • A compact and lightweight body with a maximum diameter of about 106 mm, a length of about 237 mm, and a mass of about 1,460 g is realized
  • VR mechanism of image stabilization effect 4.0 level (CIPA standard compliant) mounted
  • Suggested retail price: 506,000 yen + tax
  • Expected release date: September 14, 2018

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Nikon Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Images Leaked



Nikon is expected to announce their full frame mirrorless cameras the last week of August. There may be two models. One is for the professional market and the other for the prosumer segment.

  • Both models with new sensors : 20+MP and 40+MP
  • Both models equipped with BSI sensors 
  • 5-axis in-body stabilization
  • 9 fps burst rate
  • Dual memory card slots : XQD and CF Express. Pro model with CF Express card slot
  • EVF resolution : 3.6MP 
  • State of the art video AF features.
  • AF tracking ability of the pro version comparable to A7 and A9 models.
  • Hundreds of AF points (Marketing gimmick in my book) 
  • Tiltable LCD screen similar to D850
  • Advanced 4K video

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III and EF 600mm f/4L IS III Coming Around Photokina Show 2018




Canon is expected to announce a high end, full frame mirrorless camera soon, perhaps just before the 2018 Photokina Show since Nikon is also expected to announce their full frame mirrorless camera around the last week of August 2018 but they may also just make a development announcement and wait till Q1, 2019 to officially bring out their high end, full frame mirrorless body.

The EOS-90D and EOS-7D Mark III cameras may be announced in Q1 of 2019. In addition, a couple of Super Telephoto and one EF-M lenses are also expected, perhaps around the time of the 2018 Photokina Show in September in Germany as well.

My hope is one of the Big White lenses will be the EF 600mm f/4DO BR. Canon showcased this lens in their Expo back in September 2015 in New York City. Currently, the EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II is my favorite DO lens and accompanies me on all my wildlife photography tours but sometimes I can use a bit more focal length.

However, I suspect the Super Telephoto lenses to be announced will be the Series III version of the following : EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II and EF 600mm f/4L IS II. The EF 500mm f/4L IS II and EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II replacement will probably come in 2019. These lenses are already Very good and any meaningful improvement will be at best marginally. A weight reduction will be most welcome. Some of the Series II lenses reduced about 1 1/2 pound weight from their predecessors.

The mirrorless lens expected is probably the EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM and will give the mirrorless line a fast lens for extra flexibility in different types of photography.

Saturday, August 4, 2018

Canon Announced Zoemini - The Lightest Portable Photo Printer




United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Thursday 2nd August 2018 – Canon Europe has today unveiled the Canon Zoemini, a lightweight, pocket size and portable photo printer, featuring ZINK (zero ink) technology. The Canon Zoemini connects seamlessly to the Canon Mini Print app via Bluetooth for instant printing of photos and social media snaps in a matter of seconds. The Canon Zoemini prints out personalised 2x3 inch (5 x 7.6cm) photos, straight from a mobile phone, tablet or social media apps.

The Canon Zoemini is the perfect accessory for people who enjoy printing and sharing special moments with family and friends, wherever the mood takes them. The Canon Zoemini will inspire people to unleash their creativity, thanks to an abundance of on-trend filters, frames and AR effects through the Canon Mini Print app, free to download from the App Store and Google Play from 5th September 2018.

Whether it’s a special family occasion, holiday or simply meeting up with friends, the Canon Zoemini encourages creativity, with easy to print, peel-and-stick photos that can be used to personalise everyday items such as laptops, mobile covers, bags, mirrors or bedroom walls. School bags can also be decorated with a photo collage of friends, families, pets or even a carefully crafted selfie.

Fitting comfortably in the palm of a hand, handbag or pocket, the compact and sleek device comes in a choice of three enticing and distinctive colours: Rose Gold/White, White/Silver and Black/Slate Grey.

The Canon Zoemini features ZINK technology, meaning zero ink is required. The rechargeable battery-powered portable printer comes with a starter pack of 10 x Canon ZINK photo paper (peel-and-stick back, smudge-free, water and tear resistant), with additional paper available for purchase in packs of 20 or 50.

The Canon Mini Print app also features a tiling function, enabling the creation of larger posters or images made up of four or nine prints, as well as over ten unique collage templates that prints a 2x3 inch photo. From retro selfies to playful animal face filters, the Canon Zoemini provides the ability to customise and quickly print off memories. In addition to Instagram and Facebook, the Canon Mini Print app lets users connect with Google Photos and Dropbox, so they can print their physical copies of their most treasured memories while out and about.

Weighing just 160g and with dimensions of 118mm x 82mm x 19mm, the Canon Zoemini will be available to purchase from 5th September 2018.

Key benefits: 

  • Compact, slim and lightweight, can fit in pockets or small bags
  • Inspires creativity with on-trend filters, frames and AR
  • Prints tear-proof 2x3 inch (5 x 7.6cm) photos with innovative ink free ZINK technology
  • Prints sticky-sided pictures to decorate walls, laptops and mirrors
  • Connects effortlessly via Bluetooth to the Canon Mini Print app (iOS & Android)


What’s in the box: 

  • The Canon Zoemini Photo Printer* (Rose Gold/White, White/Silver and Black/Slate Grey)
  • One pack of Canon ZINK Photo Paper (10 sheets of Photo Paper and 1 SMART SHEET)
  • Micro USB charging cable (USB A to Micro)
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Regulation Sheet


About Canon Mini Print App 

A mobile device must be connected to the Canon Zoemini Photo Printer via Bluetooth and the Canon Mini Print App, available for free on the App Store and at Google Play. Compatible with mobile devices running iOS 9.0 or later, and Android devices running Android 4.4 or later.

The Canon Zoemini will be available in Rose Gold, White and Black from September 2018 with an RRP of £119.99/€139.99.

Thursday, August 2, 2018

The Latest News On Canon and Nikon Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras



Nikon is expected to announce their full frame mirrorless cameras the last week of August. There may be two models. One is for the professional market and the other for the prosumer segment.

  • Both models with new sensors : 20+MP and 40+MP
  • Both models equipped with BSI sensors 
  • 5-axis in-body stabilization
  • 9 fps burst rate
  • Dual memory card slots : XQD and CF Express. Pro model with CF Express card slot
  • EVF resolution : 3.6MP 
  • State of the art video AF features.
  • AF tracking ability of the pro version comparable to A7 and A9 models.
  • Hundreds of AF points (Marketing gimmick in my book) 
  • Tiltable LCD screen similar to D850
  • Advanced 4K video

Canon is also expected to announce their full frame mirrorless camera some time in September. I expect two models as well, each with its own new sensor. The prosumer version (20+MP sensor) may come with a modified adapter to accept EF and EF-M lenses but the pro model (30+MP sensor) may have the native EF mount.

If true, then I will be acquiring the pro version as soon as it is available. My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer. I have been using Canon equipment for over three decades. Follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter, see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

I have been holding back on buying a mirrorless camera because the current models do not fill my needs. While I welcome the reduction in weight in mirrorless bodies, the other features like AF, ergonomics and functionalities do not impress me enough to add it to my equipment bag.

If Canon does decide to announce their full frame mirrorless cameras in time for the Photokina Show in September, we should be getting additional leaks soon. Check back often to get the latest development and details.