Wildlife Photography - Out In Africa

I am off to East Africa on a photo shoot. Will be visiting a Black Rhino sanctuary and an Elephant orphanage in addition to going on many safaris. Looking forward to finding out how these magnificent animals are fighting to avoid the relentless slaughter from poachers and smugglers. I will be unable to keep in touch because there are no Internet access in the bush and plains. Have to wait till I return in September to reconnect. In the meantime, visit my website and Blog to see photos and read stories from my previous trips. Wish me luck on my sightings and encounters. My last two photo shoots are just average. I need a break to get some spectacular images.   

MichaelDanielHo.com 

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Review

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM 1.4x lens and EOS-1D X camera

Canon started the development of the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x lens over two years ago. When the official announcement came on May 14, 2013, I immediately put my order in even though the weight and price are higher than I have expected. The lens finally arrived and this hands-on review will not have charts, graphs and technical details. You can read that in Canon's announcement above. It assumes the reader already has a familiarity with Canon cameras and super telephoto lenses. All observations and opinions are my own and from the standpoint of a wildlife photographer out in the field.

I am a wildlife photographer and have been using Canon equipment for almost twenty five years. My subjects range from tiny Hummingbirds to Blue Whales, the largest animal on Planet Earth, ever. Over the decades, I have used and owned many L series prime, zoom and Super telephoto lenses. When the Series II versions of the Super Telephoto lenses came out in 2011, I refrained from upgrading until I have a chance to use the EF 200-400mm lens. Generally I am not overly excited with any new piece of Canon equipment, the EOS-1D X camera (see my review) was the last exception but this new lens carries all the promise of a zoom lens with a built-in extender, all packed into a Super Telephoto lens barrel.

The debate between prime and zoom lens is over for me long time ago. The image quality of the current generation 'L' zoom lens are comparable to their prime cousins. I cannot emphasis the flexibility of having a top quality super telephoto zoom lens. For years, I have suffered through missed opportunity when using prime super telephoto lens on wildlife. Once the animal comes too close, there is a mad scramble to back up or try and grab another camera with a shorter focal length. Invariably, I would end up missing crucial shots.

The most annoying thing about Canon's Super Telephoto lenses is their factory lens cap and the EF 200-400mm is no exception. I immediately substituted it with the Don Zack lens cap. The DZ lens caps are on all my Super Telephoto lenses and I highly recommend it. My first impression of the EF 200-400mm is a rock solid, semi-large and heavy (7.98 pounds) but manageable lens. It measures 5 inch in diameter and 14.4 inch in length without the lens hood. The lens hood is interchangeable with the EF 400mm f/4 IS DO lens. Most of the controls are located at the rear of the lens - extender control lever, IS modes, focus modes, focus limiter and focus preset control. The lens takes 52mm drop-in filters, which are inserted in the rear of the lens via the included drop-in filter holder. Rubberized zoom and focus rings are on the lens barrel, the textured playback ring, and the front-most grip ring that incorporates four AF Stop Buttons. I have examined in detail the area where the extender control lever is located because this is a place where dirt may accumulate and moisture can seep into the lens out in the field. However, after taking the lens to the high Arctic and Alaska, I am comfortable the lever will stand up to field use provided regular cleaning is maintained.

The front and rear lenses elements are fluorine-coated to repel water, dust and dirt. When used with the Canon EOS-1D X and Mk IV cameras, the package is weather-sealed and make cleaning easier on photo shoots. The built-in 1.4x extender (see bulge in photo below) is specifically designed for the lens and there are three IS modes, like all the other Series II Super Telephoto lenses. Mode 1 is for stationary subjects. Mode 2 is for panning subjects, like bird in flight. Mode 3 is only available on Series II super telephoto lenses. In Mode 3, IS sound can be detected when the shutter release is half-pressed, but the image is not stabilized until the precise moment when the shot is taken. When I use a Canon IS equipped lens, I always leave the IS on and set to Mode 1. To be honest, most of the time, I find there is a difference without a distinction between Mode 1,  2 and 3. After handholding and panning for so many fast moving wildlife shots over the years, I have developed a rather good technique for myself already.

Up to now, no Canon Super Telephoto lens comes in a zoom. Adding a built-in 1.4x extender and a fixed f/4 aperture over the entire zoom range is a game changer for me. By the way, the minimum focusing distance over the entire zoom range is only 6.6 feet. This means I can get closeup to the wildlife action. Although this lens is revolutionary for a 'L' design, Canon actually experimented with the FDn 1200mm f/5.6 lens with a built-in 1.4x extender back in 1984 during the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

To say the EF 200-400mm lens' zoom range is flexible is an understatement. In addition to the built-in 1.4x extender, the lens also accepts the EF 1.4x and 2.0x III extenders. This means the lens can have a possible zoom range of 200mm to 1,792mm, when used with a combination of full frame, APS-H and APS-C cameras. EOS-5D Mk III and the EOS-1 bodies will allow AF down to f/8. Auto-focusing with apertures smaller than f/8 is not possible but this lens is well designed for that with FTM (full time manual) focusing built-in. I am not a big fan of the 2.0x extender but the 1.4x is another matter. With the EOS-1D X or Mk IV cameras plus the EF 1.4x extender mounted on the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS, my focal length starts out at 280mm and ends at a little over 1,000mm. This immense focal length range encourages creativity and open up endless possibilities for my long lens photography.

When the EF 1.4x extender is attached and the EF 200-400mm internal extender set to 1x, any AF points can be selected with the joystick. When the internal extender is set to 1.4x, only the center AF point works. When the EF 2.0x extender is attached and the internal extender is set to 1x, AF slows down and only the center AF point works. If the internal extender is set to 1.4x, manual focusing will be required. This works well for me since I like to add the 1.4x extender sometimes and work mostly with the center AF point anyway. It took me a little while to get used to the fact I can actually zoom in and out with this Super Telephoto lens and finding the extender lever by touch without having to take my eye off the viewfinder. After that, it was rather instinctual in changing the zoom range, AF points, landscape to portrait mode, ISO setting and exposure control, all in quick succession, without ever taking my eye off the subject

I have taken some bird photos in my usual hot spots and went on a few photo shoots. So far, I am quite pleased with the initial results. Look at the image quality of the 100% crop Chimpanzee and Victoria Crowned Crane photos. They were taken from about 100 and 40 feet away, handheld. The IQ of the Bird-in-flight shots are equally impressive. All photos taken with the EOS-1D X, 400mm @ f/4, IS Mode 1, AI Servo. Will be taking the lens and the EOS-1 cameras out to get acclimated to its functions and shooting techniques in the next few months. Hand-holding my camera and traveling light on photo shoots are my preferences. Despite the weight of this lens and the EOS-1 camera (about 11 pounds), I am able to hand-hold (with proper technique) the combo for a short while even though I am of average height and build. When I do use support, my pick is the SLIK PRO 824 CF carbon fiber tripod and the SLIK SBH 550 ball head. SLIK equipment is the best value in my opinion and highly underrated. The combination weighs about 5 pounds and can support the EF 200-400mm f/4L lens plus the EOS-1 camera with ease. Visit the equipment page on my website to see all the gear I use on photo shoots.

Small Is Beautiful

Testing The Arctic Waters

Dracula - My scariest Halloween costume

Will Charge For Food 

My next few wildlife photo shoots start in August and last through Autumn. I have taken the lens and the EOS-1D X to Svalbard in the high Arctic to photograph Polar Bears and Alaska for the Brown bears and other wildlife.

You can follow my travels on Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr and visit my website MichaelDanielHo.com to see wildlife photos from my previous shoots around the world. Keep checking back for additional photos and addendum to my hands-on review of the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x lens as I return from more photo shoots.

Canon PowerShot G16 Announced

The Canon Power Shot G16 Point-and-Shoot Camera is a compact, advanced point-and-shoot camera featuring a 12.1 megapixel 1/1.7″ high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor to produce high quality still imagery and full HD 1080p video with notable low-light quality and sensitivity to ISO 12800. The sensor and processor work together to form the Canon HS SYSTEM, which helps to improve the image quality of dimly-lit shots by reducing noise and enhancing the overall clarity. Additionally, the processor offers a range of speed-related assets throughout the camera, including a maximum sustained full-resolution continuous shooting rate of 9.3 fps for over 500 shots as well as a High Speed AF system for maintained sharpness in a variety of shooting conditions.

The built-in Canon 5x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 28-140mm, covering wide-angle to telephoto length perspectives. A maximum aperture of f/1.8-2.8 contributes to working in low lighting, regardless of focal length, and also helps to isolate subject matter for shallow depth of field images. Benefitting this lens’ coverage is Intelligent IS image stabilization, which automatically employs one of six distinct stabilization modes to help minimize the appearance of camera shake depending on the shooting situation. Also helping to stabilize the camera while shooting is a built-in optical viewfinder that provides an additional point of contact between one and the camera. This finder is also an ideal alternative to the rear LCD monitor when working in bright conditions or for tracking quickly moving subjects. For live view monitoring, image playback, and menu navigation, the 3.0″ 922k-dot LCD monitor is available and provides a bright, clear means for image composition and review.

For instant sharing and transferring of photos and movies, built-in wireless connectivity is available and helps to expedite sending imagery directly to an Android or iOS mobile device through the use of the free Canon CameraWindow app. Also helpful is the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, which serves as an intuitive interface for uploading images directly to social networking and cloud sites from the G16.

12.1MP High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 6 Image Processor

The 12.1 megapixel 1/1.7″ CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor work in concert to produce high resolution still imagery and full HD video recording with notable low-light sensitivity and quality. The combination of these two technologies creates the Canon HS SYSTEM, which provides a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12800 with minimal noise and enhanced clarity to truly benefit impressive image making in dimly-lit situations. The processor also contributes to overall speed throughout the camera, including High Speed AF, Manual Focus Peaking, and a top continuous shooting rate of 12.2 fps for the first six images with a sustained shooting rate of 9.3 fps for over 500 consecutive images, as well as 1080p video recording at 60 fps.

Canon 5x Optical Zoom Lens

The built-in Canon 5x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 28-140mm, covering wide-angle to telephoto perspectives to suit working in a wide array of situations. The f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture benefits working in low lighting at both ends of the zoom range and also contributes to producing shallow depth of field and selective focus imagery. The lens’ performance is further enhanced through the inclusion of Intelligent IS image stabilization, which helps to minimize the appearance of camera shake by automatically selecting from six different optimized stabilization modes depending on the specific shooting conditions. The Normal setting corrects for a wide range of movements and is ideal for still photography; the Panning setting detects when panning shots are being made and does not compensate for lateral shake; the Macro (Hybrid) setting specifically corrects for shift-type shake that is common when working with close-up subject matter; the Dynamic mode is highly effective for video work and wide-angle settings and helps to minimize common shake that occurs while walking or moving with the camera; the Powered setting is suited for shooting at the telephoto end of the zoom range when hand shake is most prevalent; and Tripod mode simply turns off the IS since it is no longer needed.

Full HD Video Recording

Full HD 1080p video recording is supported with a frame rate up to 60 fps for high resolution, fluid rendering of subjects. Direct playback is possible on an HDTV via the integrated HDMI port, with HDMI-CEC support, and 60 fps movies are saved in the Internet-friendly MP4 format for expedited online sharing and editing. When recording at 30 fps, the DIGIC 6 processor and Fine Movie Detail Processing work together to enhance noise reduction and overall clarity.

Built-In Wireless Connectivity

Built-in Wi-Fi allows direct, wireless transferring of photos and videos to mobile devices and PCs for instant online sharing to social networking sites and cloud-based storage sites. The CANON iMAGE GATEWAY helps to expedite this process through an intuitive workflow, and the free Canon CameraWindow app, available for iOS and Android devices, enables efficient transferring control and also permits GPS tagging to images. An enhanced Wi-Fi set-up also works to streamline connecting to wireless hot spots, too, as WEP Key input is no longer needed and wireless preferences can easily be modified through a web browser. Additionally, Automatic Switching via the Image Sync function works to automatically sync images with any discovered and linked PC within a designated network or, alternatively, images are temporarily sent to the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY for later transferring.

Pricing and Availability

The PowerShot G16 digital camera will be available in October 2013 on the Canon Direct online store for $549.99. For more information, and a full list of product specifications, visit  www.usa.canon.com.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Announced

The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Telephoto Zoom Lens is a long-reaching zoom lens that provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 88-400mm, covering portrait-length to telephoto perspectives to suit working with distant subject matter. Greatly benefitting this lens’ reach is the incorporation of image stabilization, which works to minimize the appearance of camera shake by up to 3.5 shutter speed steps to support handheld use in low-light conditions.

An STM stepping focus motor is also integrated into the lens’ design to provide smooth, quiet, and fast focusing performance that is ideally-suited to video applications as well as tracking moving subjects. The rear focusing system, high-speed CPU, and an enhanced AF algorithm also contribute to quickened overall AF speeds. Full-time manual focus is also supported to permit fine-tuning of focus even while working in AF modes. Additionally, the front lens section does not rotate during focusing to better facilitate the use of polarizing filters.

The optical construction of the lens employs one ultra-low dispersion glass element to help reduce chromatic aberrations and distortion throughout the zoom range while also enhancing contrast and clarity. Optimized lens coatings have also been applied to ensure color fidelity by countering the effects of lens flare and ghosting.

• Long-reaching zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length of 88-400mm, covering portrait-length to telephoto perspectives.
• Optical image stabilization helps to minimize the appearance of camera shake by up to 3.5 shutter speed steps to benefit shooting handheld in dim lighting and with greater zoom magnifications.
• The STM stepping focus motor produces near-silent, smooth, and quick autofocus performance that is well-suited to video applications.
• One ultra-low dispersion element helps to reduce chromatic aberrations and distortion while also contributing to greater image sharpness, contrast, and clarity.
• Enhanced lens coatings minimize flare and ghosting in order to produce true colors with maintained contrast.
• A minimum focusing distance of 2.8′ throughout the zoom range and a maximum magnification of 0.29x at the telephoto end enables working with close-up subject matter.
• A seven-blade circular aperture helps to produce an aesthetic out-of-focus quality to benefit selective focus and shallow depth of field imagery.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon PowerShot SX510 Camera Announced

The Canon Power Shot SX510 HS Point-and-Shoot Camera is a compact point-and-shoot camera featuring a 12.1 megapixel 1/2.3″ high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor to produce high resolution still imagery and full HD 1080p video with notable low-light sensitivity and quality. The sensor and processor work together to enable the Canon HS SYSTEM, which helps to reduce noise levels and gain greater clarity for enhanced low-light imagery. The processor also affords speed throughout the entire camera system, including High Speed AF and Zoom Framing Assist, which help to assure sharp and maintained focus on fast-moving subjects.

The built-in Canon 30x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 24-720mm, covering wide-angle to super telephoto lengths for working in nearly any situation. The reach of this lens is enhanced by the optical image stabilization system that works to reduce the appearance of camera shake. Six distinct settings of Intelligent IS image stabilization are also available, and can be automatically applied to suit the type of shooting and subject matter.

For image composition, playback, and menu navigation, a large, bright 3.0″ 461k-dot LCD monitor is available and facilitates access for utilizing the SX510 HS’ built-in wireless capabilities. The Wi-Fi connectivity helps to expedite sending imagery from the camera directly to an Android or iOS mobile device through the use of the free Canon CameraWindow app. Also helpful is the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, which serves as an intuitive interface for uploading images directly to social networking and cloud sites.

For refining the look of imagery and helping to ensure precise exposure settings, Smart AUTO modes can be utilized to allow the camera to select all camera settings based on the interpreted scene at hand. Thirty-two different pre-defined shooting situations are available to cover working in a wide variety of conditions.

12.1MP High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor

The 12.1 megapixel 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor work in concert to produce high resolution still imagery and full HD 1080p video recording with notable low-light sensitivity and quality. The combination of these two technologies creates the Canon HS SYSTEM, which provides a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12800 with minimal noise and enhanced clarity to truly benefit impressive image making in dimly-lit situations. The processor also contributes to overall speed throughout the camera, including High Speed AF and Zoom Framing Assist for accurately following subjects and ensuring sharpness.

Canon 30x Optical Zoom Lens

The built-in Canon 30x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 24-720mm, covering wide-angle to super telephoto perspectives to suit working in nearly any situation. Benefitting this extensive zoom range is the integration of optical image stabilization, which helps to minimize the appearance of camera shake. Furthermore, Intelligent IS image stabilization is also available and works to counter the effects of camera shake by automatically choosing from one of six different modes to optimize settings based on the type of shooting conditions. The Normal setting corrects for a wide range of movements and is ideal for still photography; the Panning setting detects when panning shots are being made and does not compensate for lateral shake; the Macro (Hybrid) setting specifically corrects for shift-type shake that is common when working with close-up subject matter; the Dynamic mode is highly effective for video work and wide-angle settings and helps to minimize common shake that occurs while walking or moving with the camera; the Powered setting is suited for shooting at the telephoto end of the zoom range when hand shake is most prevalent; and Tripod mode simply turns off the IS since it is no longer needed.

Built-In Wireless Connectivity

Built-in Wi-Fi allows direct, wireless transferring of photos and videos to mobile devices and PCs for instant online sharing to social networking sites and cloud-based storage sites. The CANON iMAGE GATEWAY helps to expedite this process through an intuitive workflow and the free Canon CameraWindow app, available for iOS and Android devices, enables efficient transferring control and also permits GPS tagging to images. An enhanced Wi-Fi set-up also works to streamline connecting to wireless hot spots, too, as WEP Key input is no longer needed and wireless preferences can easily be modified through a web browser. Additionally, Automatic Switching via the Image Sync function works to automatically sync images with any discovered and linked PC within a designated network or, alternatively, images are temporarily sent to the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY for later transferring.

Pricing and Availability

The PowerShot SX510 digital camera will be available in October 2013 on the Canon Direct online store for $249.99. For more information, and a full list of product specifications, visit  www.usa.canon.com.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon PowerShot S120 Camera Announced

The Canon Power Shot S120 Point-and-Shoot Camera is a compact point-and-shoot camera featuring a 12.1 megapixel 1/1.7″ high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor to produce high quality still imagery and full HD 1080p video with notable low-light quality and sensitivity from ISO 80-12800. The sensor and processor work together to form the Canon HS SYSTEM, which helps to improve the image quality of dimly-lit shots by reducing noise and enhancing the overall clarity. Additionally, the processor offers a range of speed-related assets throughout the camera, including a maximum sustained full-resolution continuous shooting rate of 9.4 fps for over 600 shots as well as a High Speed AF system for maintained sharpness in a variety of shooting conditions.

The built-in Canon 5x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 24-120mm, covering wide-angle to telephoto length perspectives. A maximum f/1.8-5.7 aperture contributes to working in low-light conditions and also benefits shallow depth of field and selective focus shooting techniques. Also aiding working in dim conditions is the inclusion of Intelligent IS image stabilization, which automatically utilizes one of six different distinct modes to help minimize the appearance of camera shake depending on shooting conditions.

For live view monitoring, image review, and menu navigation, a large 3.0″ 922k-dot touchscreen LCD monitor is integrated into the S120′s design and facilitates intuitive navigation along with clear viewing. The touchscreen interface gives way to Touch AF along with other touch-specific camera controls that are ideally-suited to use when recording video. The efficiency of the touchscreen also supports use of the built-in wireless capabilities for instantly sharing imagery from the camera to mobile devices. By using the free Canon CameraWindow app, available for Android and iOS devices, photos and videos can be sent to the device for direct sharing online through the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY.

12.1MP High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 6 Image Processor

The 12.1 megapixel 1/1.7″ CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor work in concert to produce high resolution still imagery and full HD video recording with notable low-light sensitivity and quality. The combination of these two technologies creates the Canon HS SYSTEM, which provides a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12800 with minimal noise and enhanced clarity to truly benefit impressive image making in dimly-lit situations. The processor also contributes to overall speed throughout the camera, including High Speed AF, Manual Focus Peaking, and a top full-resolution continuous shooting rate of 12.1 fps for the first six images with a sustained shooting rate of 9.4 fps for over 600 consecutive images, as well as 1080p video recording at 60 fps.

Canon 5x Optical Zoom Lens

The built-in Canon 5x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 24-120mm, covering wide-angle to telephoto perspectives to suit working in a wide array of situations. A maximum f/1.8-5.7 aperture benefits working in low-lit conditions and also supports the creation of selective focus and shallow depth of field imagery. The lens’ performance is further enhanced through the inclusion of Intelligent IS image stabilization, which helps to minimize the appearance of camera shake by automatically selecting from six different optimized stabilization modes depending on the specific shooting conditions. The Normal setting corrects for a wide range of movements and is ideal for still photography; the Panning setting detects when panning shots are being made and does not compensate for lateral shake; the Macro (Hybrid) setting specifically corrects for shift-type shake that is common when working with close-up subject matter; the Dynamic mode is highly effective for video work and wide-angle settings and helps to minimize common shake that occurs while walking or moving with the camera; the Powered setting is suited for shooting at the telephoto end of the zoom range when hand shake is most prevalent; and Tripod mode simply turns off the IS since it is no longer needed.

Full HD Video Recording

Full HD 1080p video recording is supported with a frame rate up to 60 fps for high resolution, fluid rendering of subjects with integrated stereo sound recording. Touch AF control provides an intuitive means for modifying the focus point as well as zoom and in-camera playback. Direct playback is also possible on an HDTV via the integrated HDMI port and 60 fps movies are saved in the Internet-friendly MP4 format for expedited online sharing and editing. When recording at 30 fps, the DIGIC 6 processor and Fine Movie Detail Processing work together to enhance noise reduction and overall clarity.

Built-In Wireless Connectivity

Built-in Wi-Fi allows direct, wireless transferring of photos and videos to mobile devices and PCs for instant online sharing to social networking sites and cloud-based storage sites. The CANON iMAGE GATEWAY helps to expedite this process through an intuitive workflow and the free Canon CameraWindow app, available for iOS and Android devices, enables efficient transferring control and also permits GPS tagging to images. An enhanced Wi-Fi set-up also works to streamline connecting to wireless hot spots, too, as WEP Key input is no longer needed and wireless preferences can easily be modified through a web browser. Additionally, Automatic Switching via the Image Sync function works to automatically sync images with any discovered and linked PC within a designated network or, alternatively, images are temporarily sent to the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY for later transferring.

3.0″ Touchscreen LCD Monitor

A large, bright 3.0″ 922k-dot touchscreen LCD monitor is integrated into the camera’s design and supports highly efficient camera control as well as live view monitoring and image playback. Familiar touchscreen controls, such as Touch Shutter, Touch AF, pinching, and swiping, help to make this system of navigation both practical and intuitive.

Pricing and Availability

The PowerShot S120 digital camera will be available in October 2013 on the Canon Direct online store for $449.99. For more information, and a full list of product specifications, visit  www.usa.canon.com.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Announces the Facebook PowerShot N Camera

Melville, N.Y., August 22, 2013 – To address the popular trend of instantly sharing photos and videos with family and friends, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced a new version of its uniquely designed PowerShot N digital camera – the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera. A Canon Direct exclusive, the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera features a convenient Facebook Connect Button that supports instant sharing of crisp, clear images and videos to users’ Facebook accounts.

Helping people’s creativity shine through, the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera’s Creative Shot mode automatically creates a series of five artistic photos along with the original for an array of options that are ready to impress. With the convenient Facebook Connect Button and Wi-Fi® technology, the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera connects the camera directly to users’ Facebook accounts, so they can upload, comment and share their most creative, detailed images while on-the-go.

In addition to offering powerful artistic and connectivity functions, the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera features a 2.8-inch capacitive, tilt-touch panel LCD, allowing users to capture creative images at unique angles. With a shutter and zoom ring, both located around the lens, images can be snapped easily from the top or bottom of the ring so the perfect shot is always within reach.

The PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera offers an 8x optical zoom and a 28mm wide-angle lens, packaged with a 12.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor. Users can also record high-quality 1080p Full HD video with a dedicated movie button. With Hybrid Auto users can automatically create a composite video of brief clips that are recorded while taking photos to give a creative overview of a day’s activities. The PowerShot N Facebook ready’s Face ID system allows for the camera to automatically recognize and focus on familiar faces. In addition, Canon’s Intelligent IS System allows the camera to automatically select the optimal image stabilization settings according to the shooting conditions, taking the guesswork out of identifying the ideal setting for each unique shot.

“At Canon, we are continually working to improve the way users share their photos and videos,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “The new PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera, with the Facebook Connect Button, opens up a new dimension of photographic sharing and expression to help people showcase their personal style and creative flair with powerful innovative Canon technologies.

Wi-Fi Connectivity for Easy Sharing To make sure users can instantly share photos and videos with family and friends, the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera now features a convenient Facebook Connect Button. After an initial one-time set-up, pressing the new Facebook Connect Button links the camera to the users’ Facebook account for quick and easy sharing. Users can also control the destination of their Facebook uploads by choosing to share content with everyone, or to select Facebook groups.

The PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera is also equipped with built-in Wi-Fi® technology, so high-quality images can be shared with friends and family even while on-the-go. Users now have the ability to comment on their uploaded photos directly from the camera – so starting a conversation on social networking sites is easy and convenient. Users can also instantly upload images wirelessly from the camera to CANON iMAGE GATEWAYi, and upload them to a computer remotely. Photos can also be printed wirelessly using Wireless PictBridgeii on select printers, including the Canon PIXMA MG7120 or PIXMA MG5520 Wireless Photo All-In-One printers.

The Ultimate Tool to Capture Creativity

Creative Shot, available on the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera, is an easy, yet powerful tool to add artistic effects to photos. In Creative Shot mode, users compose their shot and let the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera automatically create a series of five artistic photos along with the original to deliver creative new perspectives using different color modes, crops and styles.  In addition, the new PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera offers 58 scenes of Smart AUTO and provides an 8x optical zoom to help users capture the ultimate creative shot.

A first-ever for the PowerShot line-up, the camera’s zoom lens and shutter are both operated on the camera’s dual-ring lens. By moving the dual-ring left or right users can control the camera’s zoom, and by pressing on the other ring users control the shutter, which can be released from the top or bottom of the ring, so managing the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera is easy and effortless.

The PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera features a touch shutter, enabling users to start tracking a subject simply by pressing the intuitive touch panel LCD, and then capture the image by lifting their finger off the screen. For added flexibility, the image on the screen rotates with the camera – so people can capture even the most unique shot.

Sleek, Small and Designed for Portability

With a sleek and unique design, the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera is ideal for quick on-the-go shooting. This camera features a 2.8-inch capacitive, tilt touch panel LCD, which offers 90 degrees of tilt, encouraging users to capture images from a wide array of angles and positions effectively in virtually any location. The top-mounted hinge keeps the PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera compact for convenient on-the-go shooting and easy, one-handed operation. The PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera uses a Micro SD card to store images, and the camera can be easily charged with a USB cable while on-the-go, ensuring the creative process is never interrupted. In addition, the USB cable provides a quick and easy way to download videos as an alternative to the innovative Wi-Fi® options.

Pricing and Availability

The PowerShot N Facebook ready digital camera will be available in white in September 2013 on the Canon Direct online store for $299.99. For more information, and a full list of product specifications, visit  www.usa.canon.com.

MichaelDanielHo.com

New Canon PowerShots and EF-S 55-250mm IS Upgrade

Nothing too exciting to report, but Canon is ready to announce a few PowerShot cameras and an upgrade to the mediocre EF-S 55-250mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens by making it a STM capable glass with some minor modifications.

The PowerShot line will now have the G16 to lead the charge. The new cameras will be powered by the DIGIC 6 processor and have built-in WiFi. A couple more PowerShots are also coming, the S120 and SX510. All cameras will have basically the same upgrade - higher resolution 3 inch LCD monitor and 1080p with 60 fps video capability.

These are not the announcements many photo enthusiasts are waiting for. This is Canon's attempt to stop the sales decline of their lower end models to higher performing cameras and features in many upscale smart phones. They need to hurry up and make up their minds on the final specifications of the EOS-7D Mk II, the EF 100-400mm f/4-5.6L IS II lens and the megapixel replacement to the EOS-1Ds Mk III. The upcoming announcements on these products will be eagerly received.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-70D Cameras Are Here

Canon is doing a good job in meeting the surge in demand from pre-orders of this exciting camera. My sources in Asia informed me the camera stores there are already selling the EOS-70D. The camera with the lens kit are arriving first. The rest of SE Asia, countries like Singapore and Australia are getting their shipments now. North American camera dealers should get their shipment by the end of August and early September.

You can download the EOS-70D User Manual here and read about the new Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology and see some test videos shot with the camera.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-70D AF Tests and Sample Video

Another sample video and autofocus test with the recently announced EOS-70D camera, equipped with the new Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. This new camera has received rave reviews. You can preview the User Manual here and shipping is expected to start in late September. Pre-orders are available at many camera stores and I will give this new DSLR a review once it is available and as time permits.

MichaelDanielHo.com  

New Canon EOS-M Cameras Coming

Canon is apparently scheduled to release a new EOS-M camera some time this winter. Although this camera is not as successful as the Canon Rebel, EOS-5D and EOS-6D line of full frame cameras, Canon has not given up hope yet. Management realized the weakness of the EOS-M and is trying to remedy the situation, revive the entire line and give it another go.

Although the mirrorless camera market is doing quite well in Asia, especially in Japan where it is very popular with women, Canon is paying the price of playing catch up with their competitors in this segment. Being the only major manufacturer without a mirrorless camera, they rushed out a product last year to fill the gap and now realized the limitations of their hardware design.

The next generation of EOS-M, should fix the problem once and for all, but at a higher price point. There may be two models. One is a basic model and the other one is a higher end product, complete with a viewfinder and new AF system. Canon will also announce a few new STM lenses, including a 18-135mm compact, a longer zoom and maybe a prime lens as well. For some unexplained reason, Canon is not releasing their recently introduced EF-M 11-22mm f/4-5.6 lens in the United States.

MichaelDanielHo.com

More Talk On Canon's Medium Format Camera

More on my recent post discussing Canon's interest in Medium Format cameras and photography. They are a deliberative company and will take all the time they need to come to a consensus decision before acting. Canon's recent success with their EOS Cinema series of bodies and lenses have given them valuable experience and confidence in trying to deliver a complete Medium Format solution, i.e. ground breaking body and new type of lenses.

This is the only way Canon will announced their own branded MF camera. Unless the sales of DSLR cameras and lenses, especially the higher end models pick up with the upcoming winter quarter, there will be little movement other than feverish research and development inside their labs. Photokina 2014 is a little over one year away. This will be one event Canon may want to showcase their new MF camera but an announcement as 'revolutionary' as this for Canon may also deserve a stand alone, invitation only press event.

My own feeling is they will probably not come out with a Medium Format camera anytime soon but may go for some joint venture or partial ownership of an existing Medium Format manufacturer. All this will not happen until Canon has announced the replacement to their venerable EOS-1Ds Mk III with another EOS-1 mega pixel camera some time late this year or early next year. Keep checking back for the latest information and leaks.  

MichaelDanielHo.com

DigiPod Converts Film Into DSLR Camera

The DigiPod is a digital cartridge that fits inside an old film SLR camera, and if could be groundbreaking if it ever makes it to the consumer market. It was designed by UK developer and former photographer James Jackson, who has spent the last 5 years perfecting his design for this Digital Film Pod that could put his old Nikons, Canons and Leicas back in the game.

The prototype model comes with a 2/3-inch sensor, but with more funding and backing, bigger sensors can be included in the future. Jackson needs 1,000 backers to reach his current goal. If the backers reach 2,000, the sensor size increases to 1-inch. And if they hit 5,000, they’ll go even bigger and put a 4/3-inch sensor inside. Visit this website if you have interest in backing the project.

"As a 58 year old ex-professional photographer I have for years been looking at a number of old analogue or as I call them wet film (refers to the developing process) SLR camera bodies that I used as a young professional, all of which are precision mechanical instruments, they all hold great memories and have taken some great images."

"Some are completely mechanical others have batteries to power meters, there are Nikons, Canons and a couple of Leicas’, in my eyes they are all works of art and I have taken some wonderful images with them, but they have not taken pictures for a number of years and that’s a sin. So for the last five years been looking for a way to make a digital film pod to replace the 35mm film for these cameras, there has been a number of prototypes and a very steep learning curve for me."

"I wanted the Digipod to be as versatile as possible in the space available, so there is no hard memory, everything is saved to a micro SD card, plus it has a mini USB for direct connection to a computer and a built in battery. Others have tried, notably “Silicon” back in 2000, but they failed due to technical problems. Having researched their attempt, I came to the conclusion that it was an overcomplicated project which made it too expensive and the hardware was just too big, given that the smallest memory cards in 1999 were the thin smart media cards and a maximum of 128 MB memory (about 24, pictures at that time) so it’s no surprise that they fell by the wayside!"

"Well the world has moved on since then and I have done a great deal of work on the problem. I am glad to say that with the advances in technology I have developed a digital film pod that will fit most, if not all 35mm SLR cameras and some of the mechanical non-SLR viewfinder 35mm cameras (like Leica, Olympus trip and Rolli, ones I have to hand and have tested). I have known that the hardware required to capture images has reduced in size, you only have to look at some of the “spy” cameras available now on the internet.
The issue as I saw it was getting the hardware to fit the space available in a package that would be affordable, and have it interact with 35mm wet film cameras simply."

"It has been a “back to school” experience for me, with calculations of sensor size and focal plane, which is just one of the issues I came up against, combined with the difference in positioning of shutters in SLR cameras which I have overcome in the design of the Digipod case. The sensor in the Digipod will be a CMOS, it has a predicted 24 to 3200 ASA which can be set manually before the Digipod is put in the camera, there is a battery save mode you can set and the Digipod can be reactivated without removing it from the camera in one simply action if it has gone to battery save mode."

"It does hark back to another era of photography for many in one sense, it does not have a view screen so like those photographers of old you will have to wait a little to see the results, but at least you don’t have to develop them! I have followed many projects on crowd funding sites, many of them struggle to deliver on time or at all. I know how frustrating this is for the backers, so I made a decision to launch only after I had worked through the challenges most likely to cause delays."

For me, it meant securing and building relationships with suppliers, finalizing the product design and securing proof that contractors had good delivery history. Should Digipod really touch a photographic nerve, it could introduce some delays in delivery for the later backers and that’s only due to production limitations of the manufacturer, but we would be keeping everyone updated and the up side would be bigger sensors all round! The factory has assured us that they are equipped to handle large order sizes into the 2,000+a month range quickly and efficiently."

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-7D Mk II Camera Update

There is a bit more news about the long awaited, long overdue, Canon EOS-7D Mk II camera. Just a recap first. The current EOS-7D is almost four years old and has been my pick as the best DSLR camera value on the market for years. You can read my review here but the camera's technology is getting old and its Achilles' heel is its mediocre high ISO performance.

There are different prototypes of the EOS-7D Mk II out there and they have been spotted again. This is nothing unusual and Canon have not finalized on which model to produce, including the exact specifications and the MP of the sensor. The EOS-7D Mk II will be the leader of the pack for Canon's APS-C lineup. It will borrow technologies from the unparalleled EOS-1D X, EOS-6D and the recently introduced EOS-70D cameras.

Possible specifications of the EOS-7D Mk II :

• 20 MP (EOS-70D) or 24 MP APS-C Sensor ( Too many, if true. I prefer 20 MP )
• Dual DIGIC 5+ processors ( Excellent for speed processing )
• 10 fps ( Most welcomed ) 
• Dual Memory Card Slots ( One CF and one SD. I prefer 2 CF slots )
• 61 AF Points ( Perhaps the same as the EOS-1D X )
• 3.2″ LCD monitor ( Excellent for reviewing images )
• Similar quality as the EOS-5D Mk III with much better weather proofing
• GPS and WiFi ( Similar to EOS-6D. Not necessary, in my opinion ) 
• ISO Performance may equal EOS-5D Mk III ( Most welcomed )
• Plenty of latest video features borrowed from the latest Canon models
• Selling price between $1,999 to $2,199. Not finalized yet

The new camera apparently will not be introduced till early next year. Canon is trying to ramp up production and meet the demands of the brand new EOS-70D camera first, which has garnered rave reviews and many pre-orders. The current EOS-7D is my favorite wildlife camera when the action is far away but its modest high ISO performance limits the use to good lighting conditions. When the Mk II model arrives and has similar ISO and AF performance to the EOS-5D Mk III and the EOS-1D X, it will really make me a satisfied photographer. If the new camera sells in the low $2,000s or less and comes with most of the features mentioned above, it will again prove to be the best value in APS-C DSLR camera on the market. Visit my website MichaelDanielHo.com to see many wildlife photos taken with the EOS-7D from around the world. 

Simple and Easy Way To Test Alkaline Batteries

Almost all cameras these days use some sort of Lithium-ion battery, but chances are there are equipment and gear at home or in your workshop that use Alkaline batteries. The above video shows a simple and easy way to find out if a battery is good or bad.

This test will only work for Alkaline batteries, not Lithium-ion rechargeable ones. Drop the battery (with the flat, negative end down) from a couple of inches up. If the battery is charged, it will make a solid thud and most likely stay standing. If, however, the battery is dead, it will bounce and fall over immediately.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Wins Three EISA Awards

The 2013 - 2014 EISA Awards have been announced and Canon has won three accolades.

European Professional Lens Award - Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x

European DSLR Camera Award - Canon EOS-100D/SL1

European Advanced DSLR Camera Award - Canon EOS-6D

MichaelDanielHo.com

Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Lens Coming

Sigma has been on a roll lately. Their recently introduced lens, like the 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM lens and Mount Conversion Service have received favorable comments and reviews. Now word is they are ready to make a splash at the Photokina Show in 2014 with more lens announcement and may introduce the 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM lens some time late this year but most probably next year before the Show.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Tamron Announces 3 Day Repair Service

August 14, 2013, Commack, N.Y. - Tamron USA announced that the company now offers 3-business day repair service turnaround for photographic lenses. This achievement works to alleviate customer concerns that when they send in a product for repair service, they may be left without that product for some time. Now, all lenses received in our system by noon EST are estimated the same day and moved onto the next stage. Lenses under warranty (Tamron USA offers a 6-year limited warranty on its photographic lenses) are repaired and shipped back to the customer within three business days. Out of warranty lenses are repaired and shipped back within three business days of the customer’s approval of the repair estimate.

“We are thrilled here at Tamron USA to supply our customers with a 3-business day turnaround time,” stated Pat Simonetti, Director Technical & Customer Service/Distribution. “With the support of our parent company, we were able to take the necessary action to build upon our staff and make this dream a reality. This accomplishment was and continues to be a real team endeavor. I truly appreciate the efforts from all of those involved in this project,” said Simonetti.

The Background

Customers may anguish about sending a lens in for repair, expecting that they could be without their favorite or workhorse lens for some time. Tamron Co., Ltd. recognized this and challenged its subsidiaries to reach a standard 3-business day turnaround service to make customers feel more confident that, in the unlikely event their lens requires service, they would not be long without it. “By speeding up the repair turnaround time, we can alleviate our customers’ anxiety about repairs and thereby increase their satisfaction of and confidence in Tamron products,” stated Tak Inoue, President and CEO of Tamron USA. Tamron USA took dramatic steps over the past year to increase the number of repair technicians that work on photographic lenses as well as customer service staff. Internal systems were changed to accommodate the inspection of lenses received by noon of each day and route the lenses to the proper technician for expert repair. Repaired lenses are then given top priority in the distribution center to ensure the product is on its way back to the customer within the established guidelines.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Magic Lantern Arkanoid On Canon EOS-7D

For those young enough to remember, Arkanoid is an old arcade game developed in 1986 similar to Atari’s Breakout game from the 1970s. The game is quite simple. The player is equipped with a paddle and one has to keep a ball from falling off the screen by bouncing it up and destroying the blocks in one's way. Once your path is cleared, you advance to the next level. Now Magic Lantern’s pravdomil has developed the ability to play a stripped down version of this old 1980s brick breaker-style game on the Canon EOS-7D camera.

When the 'blocks' are destroyed, they explode into a number or figure that falls down and disappears. Maneuvering the paddle is done with the camera's joystick, and the game begins when the LCD monitor stops being black. For some unknown reason, the developer of the game pravdomil deleted the Arkanoid game from his repository a few days ago. This unique 'game on a camera' may eventually make its way onto an upcoming Magic Lantern release for the EOS-7D together with continuous RAW video.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon showcases largest-ever product line-up at IBC 2013

Canon has announced the details of its biggest-ever presence at IBC, the leading global trade show for media and broadcast professionals to be held at the RAI exhibition and convention center in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, from 13-17 September 2013.

Canon has been an exhibitor at IBC for more than 30 years, and 2013 will see the company’s largest stand to date. Covering a full 432m square, the stand will be a clear demonstration of the company’s ongoing and expanding commitment to the broadcast industry and will display Canon’s complete range of world-class products, including more than 75 lenses, as well as Full HD and 4K camera solutions.

4K workflow solutions

Reflecting current industry interest in acquiring content at higher resolutions, this year will combine ‘Touch and Try’ opportunities with a greater focus on how 4K production can be brought to life, including a live 4K acquisition demonstration using Canon’s latest products.

Technical demonstrations

Canon’s Cinema EOS System, XF and XA cameras will all be available to touch and try on the stand, along with a complete range of Canon television and cinematography lenses. Showcasing Canon’s heritage as a manufacturer of optics, visitors will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the huge range of options on offer. Technical demonstrations will showcase other unique capabilities of Canon’s line-up, including the incredible low light performance of Cinema EOS cameras.

Ken Koyama, Deputy Head of Professional Imaging Group, Canon Europe, said: “Last year’s IBC was our chance to introduce Canon’s expansion into 4K to the European market. This year we’re focusing even more on fully demonstrating not only the capabilities of new 4K technology, but how the breadth of Canon’s overall range enables production of first class content at all levels.”

Koyama added: “We’ve been listening to a huge range of voices from the industry, which have been telling us that content creators are looking for tools that allow them to really express their creative visions, so we have continued to add features to our products that enable them to be more expressive. We’ll be at IBC to demonstrate the full range of Canon’s products and help visitors to identify and take their next creative step through the latest innovations in broadcast technology.”

Guest speakers

In addition to Canon’s on-stand experts, a selection of independent industry professionals will also be on-hand to present on an exciting array of topics, sharing their experiences of using Canon products and answering visitors’ questions. Among the speakers, Canon Ambassador Richard Walch will be demonstrating the EOS-1D C 4K DSLR while highly-experienced location director and cameraman Phil Coates will be talking about cameras for broadcast.

Canon’s extensive stand at IBC 2013 will be in Hall 11, Stand E50. The IBC exhibition is open from 10.30am to 6pm on Friday 13 September; from 9.30am to 6pm on Saturday 14, Sunday 15 and Monday 16 September; and from 9.30am to 4pm on Tuesday 17 September.

For more information, please visit Canon Europe’s special IBC microsite here.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Getting Into Medium Format Cameras

There are rumors recently that Canon Inc. is working on a Medium Format camera. Just as quickly, another 'source' claims that is not true. Fact of the matter is, Canon is experimenting on Medium Format technology, just as they are experimenting on super mega pixel sensors. Like I said in my previous post, Canon has projects on their shelves that will make your head spin.

Having said that, Canon Inc. is an investor driven, blue chip company in Japan. They have stockholders to answer to and the company is facing a cloudy outlook in the foreseeable future, even with the depreciated Yen. Management is looking to go upmarket on their future sales in order to increase profits. This is the correct strategy in my book. I have argued in my previous posts that Canon has under priced their EOS-5D Mk III cameras in order to increase sales. They should be aiming for the premium segment of the market to compensate for the loss of sales and profits in the lower end due to the increased competition from smart phones. Their premium pricing of the EOS-1D C and the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x lens are good examples on how to sell high end, unique products and maximize profits.

Like any big company, they are also looking at other camera manufacturers (medium format included) for possible joint ventures and acquisitions as well. Everything can be on and off the table, depending on sales forecast and business opportunities, as they present themselves. This is how a huge, multi-trillion Yen, multi-national corporation is being run and Canon is no different. Only time will tell whether they have decided to go ahead with it or not. My own feeling is they will probably not come out with a Medium Format camera anytime soon but may go for some joint venture or partial ownership of an existing Medium Format manufacturer. All this will probably not happen until Canon has announced the replacement to their venerable EOS-1Ds Mk III with another EOS-1 mega pixel camera some time late this year or early next year.    

MichaelDanielHo.com

Wildlife Photography - Reflections On South East Alaska

Brown Bear fishing for salmon on Admiralty Island, South East Alaska

Stikine River Delta, South East Alaska

Synchronized Diving - Humpback mother and Calf diving in unison

I am back from my South East Alaskan photo shoot. This is one of my favorite spots for wildlife photography. This time, the weather is the best in more years than I can remember. In fact, some days it was a bit too warm for the animals. The water level in the streams and creeks I have visited are lower than usual and some salmon are dying prematurely before they have a chance to reach their spawning ground. The bear sightings are lower as well and the Humpback whale encounters are unexciting because they are mostly feeding. I have too many tail and back shots already.

All in all, it is just an average trip with little really exciting moments since a lot of the bears are quite far away. No spectacular photos are expected from this trip but I have little time to go through my shots because my next trip is just round the corner. Leaving for an African safari photo shoot next week and already I have received bad news. The national park I am scheduled to go on a night safari has been closed indefinitely after dusk because a Black Rhino has been killed by poachers yesterday. This is very stressful news for me because Black Rhinos are highly endangered and must be saved and preserved as a species in the wild for future generations.

Visit my website MichaelDanielHo.com to see photos from my recent trips as I post them regularly. 

Canon EOS-6D and EOS-5D Mk II Dual ISO Mode

Magic Lantern has now brought the same capability of shooting in Dual ISO mode (an increase of dynamic range up to 14 stops) to the Canon EOS-5D Mk II and EOS-6D cameras. The above video shows the remarkable difference. Last month, the ML team announced they have cracked the Canon firmware code and the EOS-5D Mk III became the first camera to deliver this spectacular video capability. Read my earlier post on this topic.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Tips And Tricks from CPN

Canon photographers, filmmakers and technical experts bring you invaluable weekly tips to ensure you maximize your use of Canon cameras, camcorders, and their range of accompanying accessories.

EOS-1D X : Maximum Frame Rate

All EOS cameras quote a maximum frame rate and in the case of the EOS-1D X, this is 12fps in normal shooting. When a situation requires you to achieve the very maximum frame rate possible, there are some steps to take in order to ensure the best possible performance: keep the ISO speed below 25,600, use a shutter speed of 1/1000sec or faster and use the maximum aperture of your lens. Additionally, if you have an IS lens, turn the IS off and also make sure AF is set to One Shot.

Click here to access the Canon Professional Network's website to read more technical articles.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Wildlife Photography - Bears and Whales in Alaska, Day Ten

A powerful Bear Run on Admiralty Island

Admiralty Island, in SE Alaska, has the highest density of Brown bears in the world. The island is about 1,650 square miles and was named by the famous explorer Captain George Vancouver after the Admiralty of the Royal Navy. The island has two small native population of about 400 people and 3,000 Brown bears. There are no Black bears or Moose on the island.

However, this is not to say it is easy to find Brown bears. Depending on the salmon run, temperature and time of the year, sightings can vary a lot. Their primary food source is salmon, supplemented by clams and mussels, plus grass and different vegetation, since bears are omnivorous.

A big male Brown bear can weigh over 1,000 pounds and the female is about 400 to 600 pounds, depending on time of year and the supply of food. I am off for more bear photography. Visit my website for more Brown bear photos.

MichaelDanielHo.com

Wildlife Photography - Bears and Whales in Alaska, Day Nine (afternoon)

Synchronized Diving - Humpback Calf and mother diving in unison

The answer my friend, is blowing in the wind.

Tails, you win!

The Humpbacks and I are having a whale of a time. The weather is simply gorgeous. It's sunny and warm. The whales are feeding feverishly and I even caught one doing a single breach. I followed a small pod of about 6 adults and one calf for over an hour. They put on a good show although the angles are not the greatest but we all get an A for effort and enthusiasm. A small group of Dall's porpoises came by our boat and Bald eagles do their fly by with grace and regularity. 

MichaelDanielHo.com