Sigma Lens Price Increase Coming For Europe

Sigma has been putting out rather good lenses for the last few years. In particular, their Art line of prime and short zoom glass are very good value for the money.

They have also gotten into Cine High Speed zoom lens and Super Zoom lens as well. As my readers know, Sigma and Tamron are third party lens manufacturers. They 'reverse engineer' Canon and Nikon cameras and manufacture after market lens that fit these models. However, sometimes there can be minor hiccups and Canon and Nikon keep trying to outsmart the 'imitators'.

For those who want to save some money and perhaps get a lens that has different focal length from what Canon and Nikon offer, Sigma and Tamron may be a good alternative. For those into wildlife photography, there is a good deal on eBay for the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 lens.

Many Sigma lenses sold in Europe will go up in price rather substantially at the beginning of 2017. The list above shows the old and new dealer prices for some lenses. Check the latest EU prices on Amazon.de or Amazon.fr. Price increase for Tamron lenses will not be far behind either. If you are planning to buy one, better hurry up.

New Canon Patent - Curved Image Sensor

* * *  Another new patent from Canon - Electronic Curved Sensor  * * *

The Japanese photography blog, Egami, reports that Canon is developing and patenting curved sensor designs. The research is to understand better how light falls off the sides of the image sensors. They can learn a bit from Samsung as well, which has pioneered curved monitors and HDTVs for a few years now.

Patent Publication No. 2016-197663 (Google Translated)

• Published 2016.11.24
• Filing date 2015.4.3
• The central portion of the light falloff is not noticeable to the flat shape
• The periphery light falloff is noticeable a curved shape

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera User Guidebook

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II with EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens

The EOS-1D X Mark II camera was announced in February 2016. My readers know I have picked the EOS-1D X as the best full frame camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. I have owned the Mark II model for about seven months now and have taken it on photo shoots from the high Arctic to Southern Africa and many places in between.

The new camera has won many great reviews, including yours truly and now Canon has produced a handy downloadable AF Setting Guidebook for smartphone and tablets :

The 148-page guidebook explains in detail the technical elements of the AF system and highlights other key functionalities that photographers need to know and understand in order to get the very best from Canon’s pro-series flagship, such as Movie Servo AF, using Auto ISO and much more.

In the guidebook are detailed overviews and explanations of the new AF algorithm and AI Servo AF III+ along with a list of the AF Configuration Tool and Presets, with comprehensive explanations on how each Case Setting works and when to choose them.

The guidebook is divided into six parts, consisting of two chapters on the AF Configuration Tool (Presets and Parameters), as well as chapters on AF area selection modes, 61-point reticular AF cross-type points, release property settings and anti-flicker shooting plus utilising the AF and Movie Servo AF and other useful functions.

EOS-1D X AF Setting Guidebook : Smartphone & Tablet version

It’s a fascinating read for anyone wanting to get under the skin of their EOS-1D X Mark II and will appeal to professionals who want a handy guide which can be stored on phone or tablet. Included in the book is a lens guide which lists every major EF lens and the number and placement of cross-type points that can be used with them.

There are many useful shortcuts explained in the guide, such as using the M-Fn button to assign shooting functions and various other customisable options. As you read through the guide, it becomes very clear that this camera can be set up precisely as you need it.

To download the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II AF Setting Guidebook for smartphones and tablets just click here.

Canon Firmware Updates Correct EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II Lens Error

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II lens

Canon released firmware updates for their recently announced EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II lens. The firmware is available for almost every DSLR camera released before 2015.

The firmware update corrects the following :

A phenomenon in which when using the camera with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM or EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM lens, even if lens aberration correction is set to “”Enable””, correction will not be applied.

Download the firmware update for Canon USA here, by choosing your DSLR model, and follow the instructions.

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV Firmware Version 1.0.3

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV with EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II lens

Firmware Version 1.0.3 incorporates the following fixes and improvements : 

• Corrects a phenomenon in which the color of images varies depending on the metering mode selected during flash shooting.
• Improves the reliability of communication when using the EF1.4X III or EF2X III extender.
• Corrects the level display when the camera is held in the vertical orientation with the hand grip pointing downward.
• Improves the reliability of communication via USB cable when using the Lens Data Registration function with EOS Utility 3.

Firmware Version 1.0.3 is for cameras with firmware Version 1.0.2 or earlier. If your camera's firmware is already Version 1.0.3, it is not necessary to update the firmware. When updating the firmware of your camera, please review the instructions thoroughly before you update the firmware. The firmware update takes approximately 4 minutes.

Download : Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Firmware Version 1.0.3

If you are determined to get this latest Canon full frame model, there is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mark IV camera for $2,899 including free shipping. The list price is $3,499. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

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

Canon EOS-M5 Mirrorless Camera Hands-On Review

As reported earlier in September, Canon has officially announced the EOS-M5 mirrorless camera. You can download a copy of the Owner Manual at Canon USA. The EOS-M5 is available for pre-order at your favorite camera retailers now. 

I have never been a fan of mirrorless camera but for those who want a small, light weight camera that pack a punch above the point-n-shoot models, this may be worth a look. 

New Canon Patent - Powershot 3.8-380mm f/2.3-7 Lens

Egami, the Japanese Photography blog, has discovered a new Canon patent for a 3.8-380mm f/2.3-7 lens design to fit a PowerShot camera.  This essentially makes it a 100x zoom lens.

The current Canon SX60 has a 60x zoom but other manufacturers have already exceeded that so it's no surprise Canon plans to retake the crown soon but the one-upmanship continues. Kind of silly, in my opinion.

Published 2016.11.10 (Google Translated)

• Filing date 2015.3.31
• Optimization of the aperture flare cut
• To mitigate the amount of peripheral light change
• To move independently in the zooming
• Vibration control

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV Camera - $2,899 with Free Shipping

My readers know I use the EOS-1D X Mark II full frame camera as the main body for my work. My venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III was replaced by the EOS-5Ds, another full frame, 61-point AF, 50 megapixel camera. My EOS-5Ds is also used for nature, travel and wildlife photography. The resolution of its impressive sensor,  the ability to crop the image to 1.3x and 1.6x right inside the camera are great advantages for me when it comes to wildlife photography, offsetting its main disadvantage - the slow 5 fps burst rate.

The Canon EOS-5D Mark IV was announced back in August. It is a very good, full frame 30MP DSLR camera that is taking the role of 'little brother' to the EOS-1D X Mark II. Not every photographer needs and wants the latest and greatest gear and the EOS-5D Mark III is a great value for nature, and wedding photographers.

Last week, I reported there is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mark III camera for $1,799 including free shipping. The list price is $2,499. I have written posts comparing the EOS-5D Mark III to the EOS-5Ds, EOS-7D Mark II and the Nikon D810 for those thinking of upgrading to this body or buying the other cameras. You can see my recommendation for the best Canon cameras.

But for those who are determined to get the latest Canon full frame model, there is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mark IV camera for $2,899 including free shipping. The list price is $3,499. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

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

Apple iPhone 7 Plus Camera Hands-on Review

It is probably the worst kept secret to anyone following the photographic industry but camera manufacturers have been experiencing declining sales for the last few years. The main reason is due to changing customer preference and the advancement in many smartphone cameras.

Canon, the largest photographic equipment manufacturer in the world has experienced drops in profits in the last few quarters. They are hardly alone and based on the most recent data published by CIPA, the Japan-based Camera & Imaging Products Association, sales have not improved much so far this year.

It seems mirrorless cameras offered the industry a bright spot for about two years but now sales are leveling off and the increase in sales may have been at the expense of the traditional DSLR market.
There is no question smartphones have taken away some sales from the low end point-and-shoot and DSLR camera segment, but the best way to keep a photographic company relevant is to come out with the state of the art product to convince serious photographers why it is still the traditional DSLR camera that takes the best photos. What is more important than the number of DSLR sold is the mix of the sales, since low end cameras like the Rebel and SL series bring considerably less profit than the higher end models like the EOS-5 and EOS-1 bodies.

My readers know, I am the Wildlife Ho-tographer using Canon equipment for over 25 years. Through the decades, I have used almost all of Canon's cropped and full frame, film and digital cameras and lenses. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com. On my recently concluded Polar bear photo shoot in the Canadian sub Arctic, I have used both my smartphone and DSLR cameras to take photos and find the two types of photography perfectly compatible with each other.  I use the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5Ds cameras as main bodies for my work.

The following video is a hands-on demo of what the Apple iPhone 7 Plus can do. It has a great walk around camera but I know no serious photographer specializing in landscape or wildlife photography use it for their main line of work. You can read my earlier post on how much the camera components in an Apple iPhone 7 costs.

Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Lens On Sale

Polar bear sow and cubs napping on the tundra in Hudson Bay

Recently, I came back from my Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay, Canada. It was quite a successful trip even though the weather was 'mild' by sub Arctic standard and the bears were not able to find sea ice to hunt seals even in mid November. Came across sows with cubs, sub adult and full grown males with reasonably healthy looking weight, this time of the year.

In past years, they would have been able to start heading out to the bay and try and replenish their weight by actively hunting seals. I came across the BBC2 film crew filming and broadcasting the Arctic Live series on the tundra.

You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com. For those who are into wildlife photography, Tamron and Sigma make some good long zoom lens at an affordable price, like the 150-600mm. I am not recommending these manufacturers but like the focal length of these design. Canon is expected to announce their Super Zoom - EF 200-600mm f/4.5-5.6 IS some time in 2017 as well.

There is a large, online camera retailer in New York City selling the Sigma 150-600mm lens (Contemporary and Sport model) with a free USB Dock and a $140 promo saving, till Friday, November 27 (Saving Code is LENSFRIDAY). There are other Sigma lenses on sale as well.

You will not find a link to this retailer because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not solicit your email address for future spamming. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this company on Google yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag, upcoming wildlife photo tours and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Canon Australia is proud to announce that Season One of the brand’s locally conceived and produced photography adventure series, Tales by Light will be available to the global Netflix audience from 11 November.

Shot in stunning 4K resolution, Tales by Light Season One is a six-part series that follows five extraordinary photographers as they push the limits of their craft in little-known, little-covered and little-understood corners of the Earth.
“Having Tales by Light Season One available on Netflix is a wonderful acclamation of the quality and broad appeal of our Australian-made photography series and we are excited that it will now entertain millions of subscribers around the world,” says Canon Australia Director of Consumer Imaging and Executive Producer of the series Jason McLean. “This series is unique and started from our simple aim of celebrating the amazing visual storytellers who push the creative boundaries and it’s great that this concept resonates so well across regional divides.”

Prior to joining the Netflix documentary content line-up, Tales by Light Season One screened initially on the National Geographic Channel subscription network in Australia and New Zealand. Uniting exploration, photography and the natural world, Tales by LightSeason One was produced locally in 2015 and offers a rare glimpse into the eyes and minds of some of Australia and the world’s best photographic storytellers.

WHERE TO VIEW

Click here to watch Season One.

For additional content visit www.canon.com.au/talesbylight

Future Camera Batteries May Charge In Seconds

My readers know I am the Wildlife Ho-tographer embarking on wildlife photo tours around the globe. One of the most critical components to any successful trip when one is far away from home or a power source is, ample supply of batteries.

Modern cameras, lenses, cell phones and laptops, all consume a prodigious amount of battery power. It will be great if the batteries we have in our equipment and equipment bag can last
longer. There are simple ways to keep the battery life slightly longer by turning off Image Stabilization, GPS, WiFi and other features, when not needed.

However, a new technology in its early R&D stage may revolutionize the way batteries work in the future. Below is an excerpt from UCF's article :


A team of UCF scientists has developed a new process for creating flexible supercapacitors that can store more energy and be recharged more than 30,000 times without degrading.

The novel method from the University of Central Florida’s NanoScience Technology Center could eventually revolutionize technology as varied as mobile phones and electric vehicles.

“If they were to replace the batteries with these supercapacitors, you could charge your mobile phone in a few seconds and you wouldn’t need to charge it again for over a week,” said Nitin Choudhary, a postdoctoral associate who conducted much of the research published recently in the academic journal ACS Nano.

Anyone with a smartphone knows the problem: After 18 months or so, it holds a charge for less and less time as the battery begins to degrade.

Scientists have been studying the use of nanomaterials to improve supercapacitors that could enhance or even replace batteries in electronic devices. It’s a stubborn problem, because a supercapacitor that held as much energy as a lithium-ion battery would have to be much, much larger.

The team at UCF has experimented with applying newly discovered two-dimensional materials only a few atoms thick to supercapacitors. Other researchers have also tried formulations with graphene and other two-dimensional materials, but with limited success.

“There have been problems in the way people incorporate these two-dimensional materials into the existing systems – that’s been a bottleneck in the field. We developed a simple chemical synthesis approach so we can very nicely integrate the existing materials with the two-dimensional materials,” said principal investigator Yeonwoong “Eric” Jung, an assistant professor with joint appointments to the NanoScience Technology Center and the Materials Science & Engineering Department.

Jung’s team has developed supercapacitors composed of millions of nanometer-thick wires coated with shells of two-dimensional materials. A highly conductive core facilitates fast electron transfer for fast charging and discharging. And uniformly coated shells of two-dimensional materials yield high energy and power densities.

Scientists already knew two-dimensional materials held great promise for energy storage applications. But until the UCF-developed process for integrating those materials, there was no way to realize that potential, Jung said.

“For small electronic devices, our materials are surpassing the conventional ones worldwide in terms of energy density, power density and cyclic stability,” Choudhary said.

Cyclic stability defines how many times it can be charged, drained and recharged before beginning to degrade. For example, a lithium-ion battery can be recharged fewer than 1,500 times without significant failure. Recent formulations of supercapacitors with two-dimensional materials can be recharged a few thousand times.

By comparison, the new process created at UCF yields a supercapacitor that doesn’t degrade even after it’s been recharged 30,000 times.

Jung is working with UCF’s Office of Technology Transfer to patent the new process.

Supercapacitors that use the new materials could be used in phones and other electronic gadgets, and electric vehicles that could benefit from sudden bursts of power and speed. And because they’re flexible, it could mean a significant advancement in wearable tech, as well.

“It’s not ready for commercialization,” Jung said. “But this is a proof-of-concept demonstration, and our studies show there are very high impacts for many technologies.”

In addition to Choudhary and Jung, the research team included Chao Li, Julian Moore and Associate Professor Jayan Thomas, all of the UCF NanoScience Technology Center; and Hee-Suk Chung of Korea Basic Science Institute in Jeonju, South Korea.

Canon DSLRs, Powershots, Mirrorless Cameras and Lenses Coming 2017

Canon EOS Cinema, DSLR, mirrorless cameras and EF lens lineup  

2016 is drawing to an end soon and it has been a busy year for Canon new product announcements. The top-of-the-line EOS-1D X Mark II camera has now been delivered. I have taken it on the Upper Amazon and Peruvian Andes, Southern Africa and sub Arctic wildlife photo tours in the last few months. The EOS-5D Mark IV was also announced recently, together with the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II and EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III lens.

However, 2017 will be another announcement packed year for new products. Below is a recap of what to expect for next year and beyond. You can  read my Canon lens recommendation, see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

What to expect from Canon in 2017 and beyond. More to come.

DSLR, Powershot, and Mirrorless Cameras

• Rebel T7 APS-C camera. Around #CES or CP+Show
• EOS-5Ds Mark II full frame camera
• EOS-6D Mark II full frame camera
• A higher end, APS-C mirrorless camera
• Full frame, 'pro' model with EF mount coming 2017 - 2018
• Powershot G5X Mark II

EF, EF-S and EF-M Lenses

• EF 85mm f/1.4L IS 
• EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III 
• EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens 
• EF 50mm - replacement to EF 50mm f/1.4 and EF 50mm f/1.2L
• New EF-M prime and Zoom lenses

Super Telephoto Lenses

• EF 200-600mm f/4-5.6 IS
• EF 600mm f/4 DO BR
• EF 400mm f/2.8L IS + 1.4x and 1.7x Extender

Canon REALiS 4K 600STZ Pro AV Laser LCOS Projector

Canon REALiS 4K 600STZ Pro AV Laser LCOS Projector

MELVILLE, N.Y., November 22, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today unveiled the latest of its innovative technology with the debut of the REALiS 4K 600STZ Pro AV Laser LCOS Projector. At only 57.3 pounds, the REALiS 4K 600STZ is among the world’s smallest and lightest native 4K laser projectors, making it ideal for a wide range of markets and applications including simulation, museums, art galleries, planetariums, higher education, medical education and training.

The REALiS 4K600STZ projector reproduces exceptionally detailed images with outstanding color accuracy thanks to a combination of core technologies and features including:

Native 4K Resolution of 4096 x 2400 which is larger than both QFHD and DCI-resolution, the 4K standards for TV and digital cinema respectively. The expanded vertical resolution (2400) is particularly important for those applications, like simulation and training and design/engineering, which may require larger vertical display areas.

Laser Phosphor Light Source which offers an extended operation time up to 20,000 hours or more1, quick start-up2, omnidirectional projector placement, and a wide range of colors – all helping to greatly enhance the user experience, installation process and reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO).

6000 lumens with up to 10,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio3 helps ensure content appears bright with deep black and brilliant white levels, as well as excellent gradation.

Canon’s renowned LCOS Technology with AISYS-enhancement and advanced Color Management System for producing content with exceptional detail and color accuracy – ideal for those industries/applications like museums and galleries with the highest image quality requirements.
Genuine Canon 4K Lens for consistent clarity and color throughout entire projected area; the lens also includes a special Marginal Focus function which can be used to help ensure content projected on the peripheral portions of domed surfaces remains in focus – a benefit especially important to those in the simulation, training and educational fields. The 4K600STZ projector is also able to deliver a virtually consistent level of brightness throughout its zoom range, thus helping to provide even greater placement flexibility.

Powerful Dual Image Processing Engines for uncompressed 4K 60p playback, and optimal upscaling of 2K video and other non-native 4K resolution content.

Canon EOS-5D Mark III Camera - $1,799 with Free Shipping

Canon EOS-5D Mark III full frame camera

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

Although Canon has announced the EOS-5D Mark IV in August, not every photographer needs and wants the latest and greatest gear and the EOS-5D Mark III is a great value for nature, and wedding photographers.

Since I use the EOS-1D X Mark II as my main full frame camera body, I chose to replace my venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III with the EOS-5Ds, another full frame, 61-point AF, 50 megapixel camera. My EOS-5Ds is be used for nature, travel and wildlife photography. The resolution of its impressive sensor,  the ability to crop the image to 1.3x and 1.6x right inside the camera are great advantages for me when it comes to wildlife photography, offsetting its main disadvantage - the slow 5 fps burst rate.

There is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mark III camera for $1,799 including free shipping. The list price is $2,499. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

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

Abobe Photoshop Video Highlights Common Mistakes To Avoid

Adobe put out the tutorial video below to highlight common mistakes to avoid in Photoshop. Also check out my earlier posts on tips and tricks for Photoshop CC and Lightroom.

Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L and Other Lenses Coming in 2017

Canon is expected to announce quite a few new lenses in 2017. Among them are the EF 200-600mm f/4.5-5.6 Super Zoom, EF 600mm f/4 DO BR and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III.

Now you can add another possibility to the list - EF 85mm f/1.4L. Although this new glass is slightly 'slower' than the current EF 85mm f/.12L II lens, if I were a betting person, I'd say this will be a replacement for the current model. The present EF 85mm Series II lens was announced back in 2006.

In addition, Canon has another Super Telephoto lens with built-in extenders patented - EF 400mm f/2.8L IS 1.4x + 1.7x Extender USM. You can see how Canon manufactures its EF and Super Telephoto lenses by clicking on their video links.

Of course, with estimated product delivery timetables, nothing is set in stone. Delays and changes in production plans may alter the announcement dates but it's safe to say, 2017 will be an exciting year for new lens introduction. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Patent - EF 400mm f/2.8L IS with Built-in 1.4x + 1.7x Extender

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS 1.4x Extender lens

The Japanese photography blog Egami uncovered a new Canon patent for an EF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM Extender Lens. It appears the new patent describes a lens with a selectable 1.4x and 1.7x extender, built-in, giving the lens a maximum aperture of f/4 and perhaps f/5 and focal lengths of 560mm and 680mm, with extenders deployed, respectively.

Canon announced the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS 1.4x Extender lens back in 2014. This is one of the favorite Super Telephoto lens in my equipment bag. You can read my review by clicking on the above link and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com. If Canon decides to release this new lens, I may be interested if it does not weigh more than the current EF 200-400mm glass (just below 8 pounds) but the two lens I am most eager to acquire are the EF 200-600mm f/4.5-5.6 IS Super Zoom and EF 600mm f/4 DO BR, showcased in the Canon Expo Show in 2015.

Patent Publication No. 2016-191761

• Published 2016.11.10
• Filing date 2015.3.31
• The main lens
• Focal length 392.57
• F-number 2.90
• Angle of view 3.15
• Image height 21.64
• Overall length 371.15
• BF 44.00
• Example 1
• The first stage magnification 1.40
• The second stage magnification 1.70

Canon Selects Guinnevere Shuster for 'Rebel with a Cause' Campaign

MELVILLE, N.Y., November 17, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, has been showcasing modern day rebels through the Rebel With A Cause campaign in honor of the 25th anniversary of the first EOS Rebel SLR camera. To celebrate the culmination of the project, Canon hosted a contest to find a real life rebel and is excited to announce that animal shelter advocate and photographer Guinnevere Shuster was selected as an individual that showcases that there truly is a “rebel in all of us.” To build awareness of the overcrowding within shelters and the 3,000 animals euthanized each year*, Guinnevere captured a “dog’s best day” with shelter dog, Willa. The full #WillasBestDay film, shot entirely on Canon EOS Rebel T6i DSLR cameras, can be seen here: http://Canon.us/6whg with a call to action for families to adopt.

“Four years ago, I started photographing shelter dogs. With millions of animals still in shelters looking for their forever home, I wanted to try and make a difference and do my part to change people’s opinions of animal shelters and their residents,” said Shuster. “It’s been amazing working with Canon to change the portrayal of shelter animals by showcasing how to use photography to capture dogs in their natural state, having fun, rather than the stereotypical pictures that show shelter animals behind ‘bars.’”

By the way, Canon is planning to announce the replacement to the Rebel T6 model early next year.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III Lens Coming in 2017

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II lens

Back from my Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay, Canada. It was quite a successful trip even though the weather was 'mild' by sub Arctic standard and the bears were not able to find sea ice to hunt seals even in mid November. Came across sows with cubs, sub adult and full grown males with reasonably healthy looking weight, this time of the year.

In past years, they would have been able to start heading out to the bay and try and replenish their weight by actively hunting seals. I came across the BBC2 film crew filming and broadcasting the Arctic Live series on the tundra.

Now back to my daily routine of photo processing and blog writing until the next wildlife photo tour. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter.

Nikon recently announced the latest version of their 70-200mm f/2.8E FL VD ER lens in October. The 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is one of my favorite focal length and a staple for many photographers in wildlife photography shoots.

My sources informed me Canon is also planning to replace their current EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II lens. It was announced over seven years ago and in light of the recent Nikon's recent release of their latest generation short to medium zoom lens, they may have to 'speed up' the replacement cycle by a bit to meet the demands of professional photographers.

The new lens will be slightly lighter due to advanced optics and comes with the latest coatings and a new Image Stabilization system, with the addition of IS Mode 3. It will be priced higher than the current model and of course, with any future plans, the delivery timetable can change due to unexpected events.

You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com. Keep checking back for the latest information.   

See How Canon EF Lens Are Manufactured

My readers know I am the Wildlife Ho-tographer and Canon user, traversing the globe on wildlife photography shoots. Ever wondered how Canon manufactures their EF and Super Telephoto lenses?
Click on the link and find out.

Just back from my Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay, Canada. It was quite a successful trip even though the weather was 'mild' by sub Arctic standard and the bears were not able to find sea ice to hunt seals even in mid November. Came across sows with cubs, sub adult and full grown males with reasonably healthy looking weight, this time of the year.

In past years, they would have been able to start heading out to the bay and try and replenish their weight by actively hunting seals. I came across the BBC2 film crew filming and broadcasting the Arctic Live series on the tundra.

Now back to my daily routine of photo processing and blog writing until the next wildlife photo tour. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter , see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com.

Canon Cinema C300 Mark II Camera Lens Mount Update

Egami discovered another new Canon patent for a mount replacement camera system. The upcoming Cinema C700 will feature such a setup and the current Cinema C300 Mark II camera already offers this as an option.

Patent Publication No. 2016-192701 (Google Translated)

• Published 2016.11.10
• Filing date 2015.3.31
• Mount exchange possible
• Change the menu content depending on the mount

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

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

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

HOW TO ARRANGE A LENS MOUNT REPLACEMENT OR PURCHASE SPARE PARTS

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

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

Mount Replacement Service

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

Mount Replacement Service & Mount

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

Mount Replacement Service & Mount & Shim Kit

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

Details of the correct RCC to contact, depending on where you are located, are listed below :

Canon RCC France

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

Canon RCC Germany

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

Canon RCC Italy

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

Canon RCC Sweden

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

Canon RCC UK

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

EOS C300 Mark II White Papers available for download

You can read and download my earlier posts on the EOS C300 Mark II white papers and the latest firmware updates available for the C300 and C300 Mark II cameras. 

Canon EOS-M5 Mirrorless Camera Owner Manual Available For Download

Just back from my Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay, Canada. It was quite a successful trip even though the weather was 'mild' by sub Arctic standard and the bears were not able to find sea ice to hunt seals even in mid November. Came across sows with cubs, sub adult and full grown males with reasonably healthy looking weight, this time of the year.

In past years, they would have been able to start heading out to the bay and try and replenish their weight by actively hunting seals. I came across the BBC2 film crew filming and broadcasting the Arctic Live series on the tundra.

Now back to my daily routine of photo processing and blog writing until the next wildlife photo tour. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com.

As reported earlier in September, Canon has officially announced the EOS-M5 mirrorless camera. You can download a copy of the Owner Manual at Canon USA. The EOS-M5 is available for pre-order at your favorite camera retailers now. See the specs and videos on the new body below.

MELVILLE, N.Y., September 15, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the latest additions to its EOS M series system – the new Canon EOS M5 Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera and compact EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens. The EOS M5 camera features a 24.2 Megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, DIGIC 7 Image Processor and the fastest AF speed in the EOS M-seriesi, enabling photographers to capture clear, sharp, high-resolution images and Full HD videos. It is also the first in the EOS camera line to include the low energy Bluetooth® Smartii feature that can maintain a constant connectioniii with your compatible smartphone or tablet when you use the Canon camera connect application and both applications are active. The versatile EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens is compatible with all Canon EOS M series digital cameras, and is a great option for photographers looking to capture scenic landscapes while traveling to close-up shots from afar.

“The new capabilities found in the Canon EOS M5 Camera and EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens set a new standard for our EOS M series of cameras and lenses, showing that Canon is constantly incorporating performance enhancements desired by our customers,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “When paired together, the new EOS M5 camera and EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens provide image-makers of all levels with powerful tools that enable them to capture a variety of remarkable images and videos.”

In addition, advanced photographers will appreciate the improved operability of the EOS M5 camera. It has a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) and Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF for capturing stills and shooting video with smooth and precise autofocus. This allows for Touch and Drag AF so users can easily switch the subject of their focus by dragging the AF frame directly on the LCD panel, even while looking through the camera’s EVF. Focus peaking allows users to highlight the area of the image that is in focus from within the EVF or LCD monitor. In addition to its touchscreen operability, the EOS M5 camera also has easily accessible dials that allow you to quickly adjust your settings on-the-go.

Key Features of the Canon EOS M5 Camera Include :

• 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, ISO 100–25600.
• Fast and smooth Dual Pixel CMOS AF helps you capture stills and shoot video with quick and precise autofocus.
• High-speed continuous shooting at up to 7.0 fps (up to 9.0 fps with AF Lock) and new DIGIC 7 Image Processor with improved AF tracking performance.
• Full HD 60p helps capture fast-moving subjects and brilliant results in MP4 format.
• Digital IS with 5-axis image stabilizationivwhen shooting movies plus increased image stabilization with both lens optical IS and in-camera digital IS when shooting with an IS lens.
• Built-in high-resolution EVF (approx. 2,360,000 dots) with new Touch and Drag AF lets you manually move the AF frame displayed for more precise focusing in different shooting situations.
• Intuitive touch screen 3.2 tilt-type (85° up/180° down) LCD monitor (approx. 1,620,000 dots) enables flexible positioning and clear viewing.
• Easily customize functions while shooting using the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial, Dial Function Button and Exposure Compensation Dial.
• Built-in Wi-Fi®v and NFCvi allows for easy sharing and transferring of images and videos.
• Equipped with Bluetooth®iii Smart for smooth pairing with a compatible smartphone by powering on both devices for easy photo sharing and remote control possibilities.
• Shorter camera startup timevii and interval time between each image capture for a more efficient shooting experience.
• Compatible with EF-M lenses as well as the full line of EFviii and EF-Sviii lenses and Speedlites for expanded creativity.

The Canon EOS M5 also features Combination IS with in-camera 5-axis image stabilization, while capturing video, a first in the Canon EOS series. With a compatible lens attachediv, Combination IS leverages optical IS and in-camera digital IS to help create tremendously smooth videos. The DIGIC 7 Image Processor makes the 5-axis IS possible even with lenses that do not contain IS, because the in-camera image stabilization functions independently to help reduce camera shake when shooting videos.

Additionally, the EOS M5 camera shoots impressive time-lapse videos. The EOS M5 camera also allows for easy panning by setting the optimal shutter speed after analyzing the camera’s panning speed and how fast the subject is moving.

The new Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens offers a high-zoom ratio, expanding the range of photographic possibilities for EOS M digital cameras. Its image stabilizer helps with reducing image blur and making image and video shooting easier at longer focal lengths. Along with the enhanced performance, the EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens is compact and lightweight, making it a versatile and convenient lens to carry.

Key Features of the Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Include :

• Canon’s first EF-M high-zoom power lens covering a broad range of shooting scenes with a high-zoom ratio of up to 8.3x (29–240mm equivalent).
• Compact and lightweight design allows for easy portability.
• Optical design helps provide excellent image quality across a broad zoom range comparable to the EF-S 18–135mm f/3.5–5.6 IS USM lens.
• Maximum magnification of 0.31x at focal length 150mm.
• Image Stabilizer effect at up to 4 stops of shake correction helps capture sharp images.

Pricing and Availability

The new Canon EOS M5 camera is scheduled to be available through authorized Canon dealers or through the Canon Online store at http://shop.usa.canon.com/ in November 2016, for an estimated retail price of $979.99 for the body only. It will also be sold as part of body-and-lens kits with EF-M 15-45mm/F3.5-6.3 IS STM zoom kit lens (estimated retail price of $1,099.00, scheduled to be available early November 2016x), and with the new EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens for an (estimated retail price of $1,479.00x, scheduled to be available early December 2016x)

In addition, the new Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens, available in graphite and silver colors, is scheduled to be available in December 2016 for an estimated retail price of $499.99x.

Additional optional EOS accessories include a Body Jacket (EM-E2) and Neck Strap (EH29-CJ) that come in black or brown.

For more information please visit : http://mseriescameras.usa.canon.com

Canon Australia's 'Tales By Night' Wildlife Series Debuts on Netflix

Polar bear sow and cubs napping on the tundra in Hudson Bay

Just back from my Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay, Canada. It was quite a successful trip even though the weather was 'mild' by sub Arctic standard and the bears were not able to find sea ice to hunt seals even in mid November. Came across sows with cubs, sub adult and full grown males with reasonably healthy looking weight, this time of the year.

In past years, they would have been able to start heading out to the bay and try and replenish their weight by actively hunting seals. I came across the BBC2 film crew filming and broadcasting the Arctic Live series on the tundra.

Now back to my daily routine of photo processing and blog writing until the next wildlife photo tour. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com.


Canon Australia is proud to announce that Season One of the brand’s locally conceived and produced photography adventure series, Tales by Light will be available to the global Netflix audience from 11 November.

Shot in stunning 4K resolution, Tales by Light Season One is a six-part series that follows five extraordinary photographers as they push the limits of their craft in little-known, little-covered and little-understood corners of the Earth.
“Having Tales by Light Season One available on Netflix is a wonderful acclamation of the quality and broad appeal of our Australian-made photography series and we are excited that it will now entertain millions of subscribers around the world,” says Canon Australia Director of Consumer Imaging and Executive Producer of the series Jason McLean. “This series is unique and started from our simple aim of celebrating the amazing visual storytellers who push the creative boundaries and it’s great that this concept resonates so well across regional divides.”

Prior to joining the Netflix documentary content line-up, Tales by Light Season One screened initially on the National Geographic Channel subscription network in Australia and New Zealand. Uniting exploration, photography and the natural world, Tales by LightSeason One was produced locally in 2015 and offers a rare glimpse into the eyes and minds of some of Australia and the world’s best photographic storytellers.

WHERE TO VIEW

Click here to watch Season One.

For additional content visit www.canon.com.au/talesbylight

Canon Announced New Firmware Updates For Cinema EOS C300 and C300 Mk II Camcorders

Sealed with a kiss - Polar bears on the tundra in Hudson Bay, Canada

* * *  'Before The Flood' documentary shot with Canon C300 Mark II camera  * * *

Just back from my Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay, Canada. It was quite a successful trip even though the weather was 'mild' by sub Arctic standard and the bears were not able to find sea ice to hunt seals even in mid November. Came across sows with cubs, sub adult and full grown males with reasonably healthy looking weight, this time of the year.

In past years, they would have been able to start heading out to the bay and try and replenish their weight by actively hunting seals. I came across the BBC2 film crew filming and broadcasting the Arctic Live series on the tundra.

Now back to my daily routine of photo processing and blog writing until the next wildlife photo tour. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com.


MELVILLE, N.Y., November 9, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced firmware updates for both the Canon EOS C300 and EOS C300 Mark II Digital Cinema Cameras being showcased at NAB Show New York 2016, November 9 and 10 at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. These firmware updates support a number of feature updates for users including improvement of accessory support, ease of use, Dual Pixel CMOS AF (DAF) and creative flexibility.

Firmware updates are as follows :

The EOS C300 Mark II Digital Cinema Camera (EF-Mount) updates will allow various functions such as support for the Canon EVF-V70 OLED Electronic Viewfinder, WFT-E8 Wireless File Transmitter, Shutter Angle Priority, support for Zebra range at 65 percent or below, 2K Crop Audio Recording, Built-In Mic Audio off, and Peripheral Illumination Correction when using the new EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens.

The EOS C300 Mark II Digital Cinema Camera (PL-Mount) updates will allow various functions such as support for the Canon EVF-V70 OLED Electronic Viewfinder, WFT-E8 Wireless File Transmitter, Shutter Angle Priority, support for Zebra range at 65 percent or below, 2K Crop Audio Recording, and Built-In Mic Audio off.

The EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera (EF-Mount) updates will allow various functions such as support for the WFT-E8 Wireless File Transmitter, Shutter Angle Priority, Grip Zoom Function when using CINE-SERVO 17-120mm EF-mount, CINE-SERVO 50-1000mm EF-Mount and COMPACT SERVO 18-80mm lenses, Auto Iris and Push Iris when using CINE-SERVO 17-120mm EF-mount, CINE-SERVO 50-1000mm EF-Mount and COMPACT SERVO 18-80mm lenses and Peripheral Illumination Correction when using the new EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens.

The EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera DAF (EF-Mount) updates will allow various functions such as support for the WFT-E8 Wireless File Transmitter, Shutter Angle Priority, Dual Pixel CMOS AF (DAF) when using CINE-SERVO 17-120mm EF-Mount and COMPACT SERVO 18-80mm lenses, Grip Zoom Function when using CINE-SERVO 17-120mm EF-mount, CINE-SERVO 50-1000mm EF-Mount and COMPACT SERVO 18-80mm lenses, Auto Iris and Push Iris when using CINE-SERVO 17-120mm EF-mount, CINE-SERVO 50-1000mm EF-Mount and COMPACT SERVO 18-80mm lenses and Peripheral Illumination Correction when using the new EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens.

The EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera (PL-Mount) updates will allow various functions such as support for the WFT-E8 Wireless File Transmitter and Shutter Angle Priority.
To learn more about the firmware updates, please visit usa.canon.com/nabny2016firmware.

These firmware updates are scheduled to be available on December 13, 2016. To see these products with the firmware updates mentioned above at NAB Show New York 2016, visit Canon U.S.A., Inc. at Booth #1133. Follow Canon throughout the show on Instagram at @CanonUSA and Twitter at @CanonUSApro.

Canon Rebel T7i and T7s APS-C Cameras Coming Q1 2017

Last month I reported Canon Inc, registered camera and lens equipment with authorities in Russia and Singapore. At the time, I mentioned the DSLR will most probably be the Rebel T6's replacement.

My latest information suggests the new cameras will be the Rebel T7 model and may be announced by CES in January 2017 or CP+ in February 2017. It will come with a new version of the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens. More info will be available as soon as I receive them.

Adobe Video on Photoshop CC 2017 Tips and Tricks

Adobe offers a video on tricks and tips of the new Photoshop CC 2017 to help improve productivity and workflow. Topics include enhancements to Export As, Artboards, Properties panel, Copy As SVG, SVG plus many more other features and functions.

New Canon Patent - Variable Optical Low Pass Filter

Egami has discovered a new Canon patented for a variable optical low-pass filter (OLPF). It utilizes the autoexposure sensor to change the low-pass effect up or down.

I am on a Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay with the EOS-5Ds and EOS-1D X Mark II cameras now. You can follow my travel on Facebook and Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Patent Publication No. 2016-173437 (Google Translated)

• Published 2016.9.29
• Filing date 2015.3.17
• Performing object recognition using an image sensor AE sensor
• Using a variable OLPF for false color reduction
• Image quality decreases when focus deviation occurs is generated by the temperature, is detected object recognition is erroneous
• It suppresses the effect of the variable OLPF according to the temperature, suppressing the influence of the deterioration in image quality

Canon EOS-6D Mark II Camera Coming Q2 2017?

Canon EOS-6D Mark II full frame DSLR?

As reported earlier in September and earlier, Canon is expected to announce the EOS-6D Mark II camera some time in 2017. Originally there was talk perhaps around the CP+ Show in February next year but the most recent information I have received indicates it is more likely to be in Q2 of 2017. The new camera will have a new sensor of mid 20 MP, an articulating screen, dual memory card slots (one CF and one SD) and video capability better than HD but not quite 4K video. 

There are cameras out in the wild for testing already. New material and ergonomics will make the Mark II body handle better and lighter. Expect the price to be slightly higher than the Mark I model.
I am on a Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay. You can follow my travel on Facebook and Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Announces EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R New Firmware V 1.1.0

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R full frame 50MP cameras

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following enhancement :

Support for the Wi-Fi Adapter W-E1 has been added.

When updating the firmware of your camera, please review the instructions thoroughly before you update the firmware. The firmware update takes approximately 6 minutes. Please note that the firmware for EOS 5DS R and EOS 5DS is different.

Notes :

• The firmware cannot be updated when the Wi-Fi Adapter W-E1 is inserted into the camera.
• Once the camera is updated to Version 1.1.0, it cannot be restored to a previous firmware version (Version 1.0.1).
• EOS 5DS R cameras with Firmware Version 1.1.0 require the latest version of EOS Utility and Camera Connect.
• EOS Utility Version 3.5.0 or later can be downloaded from our Web site.
• Camera Connect 1.3.10 or later can be downloaded from App Store or Google Play.
• Versions of application software that support Firmware Version 1.1.0 of the camera
• EOS Utility Version 3.5.0 or later
• Camera Connect 1.3.10 or later
• * EOS Utility is supported on the following OSes:
• Windows 10 / 8.1 / 7 SP1, Mac OS X v10.9 / 10.10 / 10.11
• * Camera Connect is supported on the following OSes:
• iOS 8.4 / 9.3, Android 4.1-4.4 / 5.0-5.1 / 6.0

I am on a Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay with the EOS-5Ds and EOS-1D X Mark II cameras now. You can follow my travel on Facebook and Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Download the latest version of the Instruction Manual which contains information regarding the enhancements provided in this firmware update.

Canon 5Ds Firmware v1.1.0
Canon 5Ds R Firmware v1.1.0