My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer. I have been using Canon equipment for almost three decades. Through the years, I have owned and used almost all of Canon professional and consumer grade gear and have tested many of them on global wildlife photo tours.
As you know, I have picked the EOS-7D as the best APS-C camera on the market for action and wildlife photography fours years in a row after it was announced in 2009. The Mark II model came out in 2014 followed by the Nikon D500 in January, 2016.
I will be going on another wildlife photography tour very soon. In September, I was in the high Arctic and this time I will be photographing Tigers and Asiatic Lions, plus other fauna in India. There are only about 500 of these magnificent animals left in the wild.
Although the Mark II camera is a dramatic improvement over the earlier model, the Nikon D500 gave the Canon camera a real challenge and of course, the EOS-7D Mark III is just 'around the corner'. The test cameras are already out of the labs and into the wild for beta testing.
There are crazy rumors flying around saying the new camera will have a 30MP sensor and burst rate of 12+ fps, etc. Frankly, that is a lot of photography noise so early in the guessing game. I do not expect the Mark III to be announced earlier than late Q1, 2018 but the trend in the past few years has been to speed up the replacement cycle of higher end cameras.
Since the EOS-7D has always been the leader in Canon's APS-C camera lineup, it is very logical the Mark III will again come with a new generation of APS-C sensor. Many photographers are clamoring for everything under the sun and a list price of $1,499. One has to be more realistic about the business of manufacturing photography equipment.
My personal opinion is the Mark II is already a very good camera but a few improvements will make it an even better prosumer DSLR body. There is talk about an announcement some time in March 2018. Since the EOS-7D Mark III will have 4K video and possibly C-Log, a release date just before the big NAB Show in April in Las Vegas makes a lot of sense. Keep checking back as I receive the latest information.
Here are some possible specs for the EOS-7D Mark III :
A slight increase in megapixels, low to mid 20s for the sensor.
10 fps is adequate but if technologically feasible, 12 fps is welcomed.
4K video and C-Log is unnecessary for me but it's de rigueur for any prosumer camera
Since 4K video will be included, a tilting or variable LCD screen is expected
Additional AF points to below 100
Increase in high ISO and Dynamic Range performance is critical
London, UK, 21 November 2017 - Canon Europe, world leader in imaging solutions, today announces the launch of the ME20F-SHN, a low light network camera with remarkable performance. As a sister product to the ME20F-SH, the ME20F-SHN which now features network capability, further enhances Canon’s Multiple Purpose camera line-up with a solid proposition in producing full colour and Full HD resolution images in limited light scenarios. Perfect for critical surveillance operations, the ME20F-SHN packs incredible low light performance, network capability and built-in video analytics into a lightweight and compact body.
Incredible low-light performance
Equipped with a 2.26MP Full Frame 35mm CMOS sensor and DIGIC DV 4 processor, the ME20F-SHN delivers sharp, low noise, Full HD colour video in extreme low light conditions. The sensor’s pixels and readout circuitry use Canon’s proprietary technologies to achieve both reduced noise and exceptionally high sensitivity. With a maximum ISO in excess of 4 million (+75db), which delivers amazing low-light sensitivity, the ME20F-SHN can capture subjects illuminated with less than 0.0005 lux. Even greater detail can be captured in low-light environments by removing the IR cut filter when shooting in infrared mode.
Much like Canon’s Cinema EOS range, this network camera offers Canon Log and Wide DR from the Custom Picture menu, which enables a wide dynamic range of up to 12 Stops (800%), delivering high-quality images across a range of lighting scenarios. The Custom Picture menu has been upgraded, with the addition of the Crisp Img function, which obtains sharp images in well-lit environments and low noise image under low light conditions. These features are invaluable for users needing to capture clear and accurate images.
Enhanced network capability for surveillance applications
Featuring Ethernet, 3G/HD-SDI and HDMI ports, the ME20F-SHN caters for a plethora of video outputs based on users’ application requirements. For local monitoring, the ME20F-SHN has 3G/HD-SDI and HDMI ports; while an Ethernet connection enables remote operation of camera settings, monitoring and recording via web browsers, mobile devices or other video management software. The microSD card slot supports record and playback directly from a microSD card. For unmanned and cost-efficient surveillance, the 6 built-in video analytics functions and Alarm I/O interface enables automated recording and output to external devices triggered by video motion detection and alarm input.
With the Area-specific Data Size Reduction (ADSR) function, the ME20F-SHN enables users to capture absolute detail in selected areas of interest while reducing bit-rates in the other areas of the image to save network bandwidth. For ease of integration into existing video surveillance systems, the ME20F-SHN supports a wide range of video management software through Canon WebView and ONVIF protocols.
Flexible installation capabilities
Operators can select the ideal lens for each shooting and equipment scenario, taking aspects such as angle of view and level of brightness into account. Featuring an EF mount with Cinema Lock, the ME20F-SHN is compatible with a broad range of lenses across the Canon line-up, including zooms, primes and selected Cine Servo lenses for greater control. With PoE+ support, the data transmission via Ethernet and power supply are provided with a single LAN cable, which facilitates simple and rapid installation of the camera. The compact body and lightweight design are invaluable for users needing both a fixed and portable camera.
ME20F-SHN key features :
Sharp, low noise colour video in extreme low light
Network capable remote configuration and monitoring
Supports a wide range of surveillance applications
Canon EOS-5D Mark IV camera with EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II lens
Their is a top rated merchant on the Internet selling the new Canon EOS-5D Mark IV camera bundle for $2,849 after mail in rebates and includes free shipping. There are two other bundles to choose from including lens. Hurry, it won't last. This is a very good deal. I bought the EOS-5Ds camera before the Mark IV model was announced and have taken it on many global photo tours.
You will not find a link to this merchant because I am not endorsing or receiving any compensation from the company. I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find the item by Googling it yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body Bundle $2,849 (After $350 mail-in rebate)
Canon PIXMA Pro-100 Printer
Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip for EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon SG-201 Photo Paper Plus Semi-Gloss (13 x 19″, 50 Sheets)
My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer. I have been using Canon equipment for almost three decades. Through the years, I have owned and used almost all of Canon professional and consumer grade gear and have tested many of them on global wildlife photo tours.
As you know, I have picked the EOS-7D as the best APS-C camera on the market for action and wildlife photography fours years in a row after it was announced in 2009. The Mark II model came out in 2014 followed by the Nikon D500 in January, 2016.
Although the Mark II camera is a dramatic improvement over the earlier model, the Nikon D500 gave the Canon camera a real challenge and of course, the EOS-7D Mark III is just 'around the corner'. The test cameras are already out of the labs and into the wild for beta testing.
There are crazy rumors flying around saying the new camera will have a 30MP sensor and burst rate of 12+ fps, etc. Frankly, that is a lot of photography noise so early in the guessing game. The trend in the past few years has been to speed up the replacement cycle of higher end cameras.
Since the EOS-7D has always been the leader in Canon's APS-C camera lineup, it is very logical the Mark III will again come with a new generation of APS-C sensor. Many photographers are clamoring for everything under the sun and a list price of $1,499. One has to be more realistic about the business of manufacturing photography equipment.
Canon is a conservative and deliberative company. They rarely try to be the first in new features but there are some tried and true functions like illuminated buttons that have appeared on other manufacturers' cameras for years. A recent patent from Canon shows they have finally made that 'leap'. My personal opinion is the Mark II is already a very good camera but a few improvements will make it an even better prosumer DSLR body. I expect the Mark III model to arrive some time by the middle of 2018. keep checking back for the latest information as I get them
Here is my wish list for the EOS-7D Mark III :
A slight increase in megapixels, low to mid 20s for the sensor.
10 fps is adequate but if technologically feasible, 12 fps is welcome
4K video is unnecessary for my needs but its de rigueur these days for any camera
GPS and WiFi are also unnecessary for my needs but probably will be included
Additional AF points to below 100 is critical
Increase in high ISO and Dynamic Range performance is critical
Addition of illuminated buttons on the back panel is welcome
Canon has patented two new EF lens design. They both appear to be Super Zoom design, one for the full frame body, EF 28-550mm f/3.5-6.3 and the other for the cropped frame EF-S 15-300mm f/3.5-6.3.
The EF 28-550mm f/3.5-6.3 will be quite a welcome move for me to replace my present EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS lens, but it will weigh quite a bit more, I am afraid. The current lens is about 3.70 pounds already. I hope it will come in the 'L' version. Canon is expected to announce a Super Zoom lens some time in 2018 but it may not be a 'L' lens.
Their is a top rated merchant on eBay selling the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera for $5,000 including free shipping. Hurry, it won't last. This is a very good deal. I bought this camera when it first came out and have taken it on many global photo tours.
You will not find a link to this item because I am not receiving any compensation from this company. I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find the item by Googling it yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest.
Canon Japan has announced their new official photography merchandise just in time for the shopping season. All these items are scheduled to be released on December 14, 2017. They can be purchased directly from the Canon Online Store or on websites like eBay. They make great Christmas gifts for any photographer.
The Canon collection of mugs, cups and coasters :
Premium Gift Box MC-MUG SET
Lens Mug MC-MG001
Lens Mug MC-MG002
Miniature USB F-1 16GB
Thermal Bottle MC-TB001
Lunch Bag MC-LB001
Picnic Mat MC-PM 001 (My wife would love a picnic with a mat like this)
Tracking and panning a camera to video a speeding bullet or flying tank shell seems impossible given the projectile can travel at almost 5,000 feet a second. Below is a video from Curious Droid that explains how ultra high speed cameras work.
The secret behind the system is based on mirrors. Mechanical systems moves a mirror at the same speed as the projectile. The angle of reflection allows the camera to film the shell at high speed.
Systems like this have been used for many years to film incredibly short-lived events, such as the first moments of a nuclear explosion.
This revolutionary C4 camera system was developed in the UK by British scientists after World War II. It consisted of a rotating mirror weighing over two tons. It held the speed record at the time of photographing 7,000,000 frames a second.
Canon has submitted a new mirrorless camera for Bluetooth certification. It may be called EOS Kiss M / EOS-M50 depending on which part of the globe the camera is marketed.
“Kiss” has traditionally been the name reserved for DSLRs sold in Japan. Is this be the first EOS-M camera with an EF mount? The camera may be announced by CES in Las Vegas around January 2018.
What do you think? Can this be Canon's first attempt at a mirrorless camera with the EF mount? Stay tuned. More information to come.
Bokeh Market is a new website that enables users to determine the current market value of a used camera or lens. They claim the information is real-time value of used equipment.
Users enter their requests into a Search Bar, much like all other search engines. The results will be displayed in a Product Page. It will feature the products specs, a price chart for trusted and individual sellers, plus listings for the product's price as listed in popular sites like Amazon, eBay, Adorama, B&H, Fred Miranda, etc.
Registered Users get more functionality, like price alerts and current value of one's camera equipment inventory or future purchases. The site wants to be the Kelley Blue Book of photographic equipment gear. The service is free but the website has affiliate links and any purchases through Bokeh Market generates commission for the company.
I have just returned from a Wildlife Photo shoot in Hudson Bay, Canada. The action was very good, with encounters of Polar bear sows and cubs, Arctic and Silver foxes, Snowy Owls and Arctic hares.
Once I have time to catch up with my daily routine, I will post some of the latest photos. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter and see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com
Canon filed a patent for the EF 200-600mm f/4.5-5.6 IS super zoom lens in 2016. The market for a consumer grade long zoom lens is dominated by Sigma and Tamron 150-600mm models right now but Canon is interested in this space and may announce their EF 200-600mm lens some time in the second half of 2018.
Unless, the new lens comes in the professional 'L' grade model, the price point (presumably just slightly higher than or equal to the competing third party models) will not make economical sense for Canon to make the lens a great weather-sealed performer. I am not impressed by the current 'super zoom' models on the market. Adding the Canon name to another consumer model will not make it any better, albeit perhaps a solid performer for its price. There may even be a custom extender as an option to add on the new glass.
The current EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II is a great performer. Even with a 1.4x extender added, the image is still quite acceptable. I hope Canon will release the EF 200-600mm in the 'L' grade and the EF 600mm f/4 DO BR some time next year. I will be a buyer of both glass.
MELVILLE, N.Y., November 1, 2017 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today two new portable 4K UHD broadcast lenses for use with broadcast cameras featuring 2/3-inch sensors: the Canon CJ45ex9.7B 4K UHD Portable Zoom Lens provides users with the highest zoom ratio in its class1, and the Canon CJ45ex13.6B 4K UHD Portable Zoom Lens features both the highest zoom ratio and longest focal length in its class1.
The Canon CJ45ex9.7B and CJ45ex13.6B lenses both feature a broad 45x zoom ratio and wide-angle focal length of 9.7 mm to 437 mm and 13.6 mm to 612 mm, respectively. Both telephoto zoom lenses are ideal pieces of equipment for Electronic Field Production (EFP) broadcast applications including wildlife/nature, sports, live events, documentaries, and helicopter/aerial. Additionally, both lenses are well suited for mid-size broadcast vans and surveillance applications.
“As the demand for more 4K UHD broadcasting continues to grow, Canon is constantly developing high-quality products to provide producers and broadcasters with outstanding optical performance,”said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A. “The CJ45ex9.7B and CJ45ex13.6B both support a variety of broadcast applications, enabling users to capture breathtaking 4K UHD image quality in a form factor that is both lightweight and compact.”
The CJ45ex9.7B and CJ45ex13.6B both employ Canon proprietary optical design technology that features optimal lens positioning using both fluorite and Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) glass. The use of these lens elements enable users to capture high-quality 4K UHD imagery from the center of the imaging field to the periphery and across the entire zoom range, making them ideal for a variety of shooting situations—from close-up shots all the way to wide shots such as panoramic views of large venues.
The form factor and operational controls of the lenses will be very familiar to users who have previously operated one of Canon’s award-winning HD lenses. The lenses are designed to meet the demands of the on-the-go broadcast shooter where lightweight and compact are key advantages, comparable to HD super telephoto lenses. Both lenses feature three 20-pin connectors for zoom control, focus control and access to the virtual terminal, even in full servo setup with focus and zoom controllers connected. Futhermore, a 16-bit absolute value encoder in the digital drive unit helps eliminate the need for any initialization, enabling users to simply turn on the camera and begin shooting.
Availability
The CJ45ex9.7B 4K UHD Portable Zoom Lens is scheduled to be available in April 2018*, while the CJ45ex13.6B will be available in May 2018*. For full product specifications and more information on these lenses and the full-line of Canon 4K Broadcast Lenses please visit, https://www.usa.canon.com/bctv-lenses.
