Canon Announced EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Firmware Version 1.1.3

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR camera

My readers know I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best DSLR for wildlife photography four years in a row. Now with the EOS-1D X Mark II camera has taken over this coveted spot.

I have owned the Mark II for about a year now and has taken it on global photo shoots from the high Arctic to the Amazon jungles and Southern Ocean. Canon just came out with the latest firmware upgrade for this incredible camera.

Firmware Version 1.1.3 incorporates the following improvements to enhance functions :

• Corrects a phenomenon in which the drive mode icon is not correctly displayed when using custom shooting modes (C1/C2/C3).
• Changes the maximum number of "Release cycles" displayed from 1,000,000 cycles to 9,999,000 cycles. This value can be checked under the "Camera system information" menu.
• Improves the reliability of communication via USB cable when using the Lens Data Registration function within EOS Utility 3 software.

Download the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Firmware Version 1.1.3 here

Canon EOS-1D C Camera - $3,899 with Free Shipping

Canon Cinema EOS-1D C full frame camera 

My readers are aware that I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best full frame professional camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. Since earlier this year, I have moved on to the EOS-1D X Mark II but the original Series I body is still a very good camera.

For those devoted photographers and cinematographers who are determined to get a fine EOS-1D body with many advanced features and save a little money, you can consider the EOS-1D C, Canon's hybrid DSLR with 4K motion imaging and full HD 1080p recording at 60 fps on CF cards. It also shoots up to 14 fps as a still camera and comes in a rugged, magnesium alloy body. It uses the EF-mount lenses and opens up new still and cinematic opportunities for photographers and videographers.

There is a highly-rated company selling the Canon EOS-1D C camera for $3,999 with free expedited shipping. The regular price is $7,999. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

You will not find a link to this 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 Google yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag, upcoming wildlife photo tours and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II at Super Bowl 50

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera

* * *  Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera dynamic range test  * * *

Canon announced the EOS-1D X Mark II camera on February 2. The new camera made its first public debut at Super Bowl 50. You can see high resolution sample photos and 4K videos shot with the camera from Canon by clicking on the above link.

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. There is every reason to believe the new camera will continue this tradition.


Feb 9, 2016 – MELVILLE, N.Y. – On February 7th, the top sports photographers from across the country gathered in the San Francisco Bay Area to cover the Big Game between the teams from Carolina and Denver. With more than 70 percent of the photographers in the San Francisco stadium using Canon EOS DSLR cameras and EF lenses, Canon’s iconic white lenses filled the sidelines from the opening kickoff to the final whistle.

“Seeing such a large number of the country’s most talented sports photographers choosing Canon equipment to photograph the country’s biggest sporting event of the year is always such a humbling honor for Canon. Their iconic images of the game will be seen by millions of people around the world for years to come, and this drives Canon to ensure both our products and support live up to the requirements and expectations of our loyal customers,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Veteran sports photographers and Canon Explorers of Light Peter Read Miller and Damian Strohmeyer were on the sidelines using the brand-new EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR Camera, the first public use of the camera in the U.S. since being announced to the public on February 1. "The EOS-1D X Mark II is a marked improvement in file quality, and the performance was huge at higher ISO," said Strohmeyer. "This camera is a big step up!"

A full complement of friendly and knowledgeable staff from Canon Professional Services (CPS), a fixture at major sporting events throughout the year, were on site at the stadium for the entire weekend providing comprehensive equipment maintenance, extensive equipment loans and expert technical support to the major photo agencies and individual photographers covering the game. "The equipment loan from CPS really gave us some opportunities for our coverage we wouldn't have otherwise," said Carlos Avila Gonzalez, photo/video journalist for the San Francisco Chronicle. "When an event as large and globally renowned as this is in your area, you have to step up to deliver the kind of work that keeps readers and viewers engaged and constantly seeing your publication as the go-to source for visual content. Canon's help with equipment allowed us to provide that kind of coverage."

Canon Professional Services will be proudly attending to photographers at over 32 events this year including major sporting, auto racing, Hollywood, and political events throughout the year.

In addition to the lenses on the sideline, Canon’s line of HD broadcast lenses were also used extensively to help deliver the game to more than 110 million television viewers.

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II vs Nikon D5 Camera Comparison

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and Nikon D5 cameras 

* * *  My review of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera  * * *

* * *  On a photo shoot in Alaska / Canada with the EOS-1D X Mark II  * * *

Nikon announced their long awaited D5 camera just in time for the CES 2016. Almost 4 years to the day when they announced the D4 back in CES 2012. Canon released their EOS-1D X Mark II camera on February 1, 2016. Below is a brief comparison of the main specs between the two cameras. The EOS-1D X camera was announced back in October 2011 and my readers know I have picked it as the best DSLR for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row.

Nikon D5 main specifications :

• Two D5 bodies - D5 XQD and D5 CF
• New 20.82 MP CMOS sensor
• EXPEED 5.4K processing engine
• 153 AF points, 99-point cross sensor, f/8 corresponding 15 points
• Continuous shooting (continuous shooting up to 200 frames in 14bit lossless compression RAW) -12 fps in the AF / AE tracking
• Continuous shooting speed with mirror lockup, 14 fps (AE / AF fixed)
• 4K UHD video at 30fps
• ISO 100-102400. Extended to 3280000
• 3.2-inch 2.36 million dots LCD touchscreen
• Memory card slots - dual XQD or CF slots
• Shutter speed - 30 seconds to 1/8,000 sec
• Finder coverage - 100% (FX), magnification: 0.72x
• SuperSpeed - (USB 3.0 Micro-B terminal)
• Battery - EN-EL18a
• Weight (battery and cards) - XQD : 1405g. CF : 1415g
• List price - $6,500 in the U.S.A.
• Shipping starts in March, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II specifications :

• New 20.2 MP Canon sensor 
• ISO 100-51200. Expanded to 409600 
• New sensor technology subdividing high and low sensitivity pixels
• One slot for each card - CFast and CF memory slots 
• New, 61 point AF system 
• Dual DIGIC 6+ processors
• 15 stops of dynamic range
• Maximum burst rate 16 fps (14 fps w/o mirror lockup)
• 4K UHD video at 60fps
• 3.3 inch Super high resolution LCD
• USB 3.0 Micro-B terminal
• Finder coverage - 100%, magnification : 0.72x
• GPS and Intervalometer
• New LP-E19 battery
• Unmatched weather sealing and ergonomics
• List price - $5999
• Announcement date : February 2016
• Shipping date : April 2016 

The Nikon D5 camera specs look good at first glance. The burst rate of 12 fps and 14 fps with mirror lockup and matches the Canon EOS-1D X but the Mark II exceeds with 14 fps and 16 fps respectively. 

Shooting at ISO 3280000 is playing the marketing numbers game but suffice to say the camera should have excellent ISO performance and both cameras are evenly matched at high ISO. Being a wildlife photographer, I hardly ever use ISO higher than 6400 out in the field. The noise level is simply unacceptable beyond that. Check out the the two cameras' ISO performance comparison.  

The Nikon D5's 153 AF points is just another big number designed to grab attention. The dedicated processor for AF is good and the 15 AF points usable @ f/8 is a more meaningful number. All of the EOS-1D X Mark II's 61 AF points are accessible @ f/8.  

Offering a QXD or CF memory card version is a good idea because not many photographers shoot enough 4K video to justify buying a collection of new and expensive memory cards, but the downside is having two separate cameras. Sadly, the Nikon D5's 4K video capability is another marketing also-ran. Canon offers one slot each for CFast and CF memory card in the same camera and its 4K video capabilities are at least worth having.

The Nikon D5's list price of $6,500 is slightly over-priced. I still remember paying $8,000 for the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III back in 2008 and now the EOS-5D Mark III, with a list price of $2,499, beats the old champ's performance in so many ways. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II's list price of $5,999 is simply a 'bargain'.

You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com. I will be getting my EOS-1D X Mark II very soon and taking it around the globe for real world wildlife photo shoots to test the camera. Keep checking back for the latest photos and review of the new body. More to come . . . . . .

Why Do Canon EOS-1D Cameras Cost More?

* * *  See how Nikon D5 compares to the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II  * * *

Ever wondered why professional grade cameras like the Canon EOS-1D and Super Telephoto lenses cost more? The reason is they are made to take on some of the toughest environment a piece of gear might encounter. Although not water proof, they are water resistant and weather-sealed, can take punishing temperatures and still perform their functions. Some of the newer Canon cameras like the EOS-7D Mark II, EOS-5D Mark III and EOS-5Ds are also built solidly.

My readers know I have used the Canon EOS-1D series on wildlife photography since 1989. Over the decades, I have taken them from the high Arctic to the Southern Ocean and places in between. They have been subjected to extreme cold, heat, humidity, dust, sand and water and came through with flying colors. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

In 2012, Swiss photographer Alessandro Della Bella was involved in the One Day On Earth project. Over the course of a few days and nights, he shot about 10,000 photos and a time-lapse video of the night sky on Mount Piz Corvatsch and Piz Nair. During the night, the temperature went down to about -10+ degrees Fahrenheit (-23+ Celcius). He used five Canon DSLRs, including the EOS-1Ds Mark III and EOS-1D X.

When I was in the Canadian sub Arctic in November, the temperature was actually below that and my EOS-1D X, EOS-7D Mark II, EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II and EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II all performed quite well. Those who have gone on photos shoots in very cold places know two of the biggest challenges while photographing are the lens freezing up and the batteries draining fast. Extra replacement of both and keeping the equipment covered until the very moment of use are essential.

Latest Info on Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera?

* * *  See the EOS-1D X Mark II vs Nikon D5 comparison  * * *

* * *  Nikon has officially announced their top-of-the-line D5 camera  * * *

The current EOS-1D X camera has been my pick as the best full frame DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photography over three years in a row. According to the latest information I have received, the long awaited EOS-1D X Mark II model will be equipped with 4K video. That indicates to me Canon feels Nikon will definitely include 4K video in their soon to be announced top-of-the-line D5 camera. They also want to make sure Sony, Leica and Nikon are not the only companies with a full frame camera capable of 4K video.

In order to support 4K video and other improved features and function, Canon will probably break its usual habit and equip the new camera with their latest processor - DIGIC 7. Up to now, Canon has always introduced their newest processors on the lower end models like the Powershot cameras first. The DIGIC 6 was a case in point. On top of that, the Mark II model will probably come with dual CFast card slots to handle the added processing power and vast amount of data. This means for many owners of the new DSLR, especially those who plan to use the 4K video feature a lot, they will have to buy a whole new supply of more expensive CFast memory cards.

My readers know I am a wildlife photographer. After resisting for many months, I have finally and reluctantly replaced my faithful full frame Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III camera with the EOS-5Ds. The main reason is the super high resolution 50MP sensor and the flexibility of the EOS-5Ds to take photos in the 1.3x and 1.6x crop mode. These advantages offset the disadvantage of its slow 5 fps burst rate. My main 'complaint' of the EOS-1D X is its relative modest 18 MP sensor does not offer too many pixels for post processing cropping and I am not a big fan of extenders. Still keeping my eyes open for the upcoming EOS-5D Mark IV. Should be announced after the EOS-1D X Mark II.

A combination of the EOS-5Ds, EOS-7D Mark II and the upcoming EOS-1D X Mark II cameras will be the main bodies in my equipment bag. I have many global photo shoots coming up in 2016 and will put the EOS-5Ds and EOS-1D X Mark II through many real world testing and write a comprehensive report on these cameras in the next few months.

Below are the best information I have for the upcoming EOS-1D X Mark II camera. Keep checking back for the latest development. More to come . . . . You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Possible specs for Canon EOS-1D X Mark II : 

• New 22 to 24 megapixel full frame Canon sensor 
• May utilize column parallel sensing technology similar to Sony's EXMOR sensor
• New sensor technology subdividing high and low sensitivity pixels
• New, state of the art AF system
• Dual DIGIC 7 processors
• 15 stops of dynamic range
• Maximum burst rate 15 fps (13 fps w/o mirror lockup)
• 4K video (maximum 30 fps)
• Dual CFast or CF memory card slots
• 3.3 inch Super high resolution LCD
• Unmatched weather sealing and ergonomics
• List price - below $7,000 in the U.S.A.
• Expected announcement date : Q1 of 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Camera $3,899 Including Shipping

Canon EOS-1D X full frame DSLR camera

* * *  Read the latest post on the EOS-1D X Mark II camera  * * *

There is a top-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-1D X camera for $3,899 including free shipping. This is an excellent deal and my readers know I have picked this camera as the best full frame DSLR body three years in a row for sports and wildlife photography. This camera is on its way to have a 4 year replacement cycle and the Mark II should be out by early 2016. You can read the latest post on the new camera here.

Although the Mark II is scheduled to come out in a few short months, not everyone needs or wants to upgrade to the latest and greatest. The current model is a fine camera and at almost half the price of the new body, it is really a bargain. I expect the EOS-1D X Mark II to list for just below $7,000.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not recommend any particular company. I am completely unbiased in my reporting and have no conflict of interest. You can easily find the listing on eBay yourself. See travel and wildlife photos taken with this camera on my worldwide photo shoots on MichaelDanielHo.com

More Info On Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera

* * *  Nikon D5 camera photos leaked  * * *

* * *  Canon EOS-1D X Mark II officially announced  * * *

* * *  I'm off on a Polar Bear Photo Tour. Will connect if possible  * * *

The current EOS-1D X camera has been my pick as the best full frame DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photography three years in a row. According to the latest information I have received, the long awaited EOS-1D X Mark II model will MOST probably be equipped with 4K video. That indicates to me Canon feels Nikon will definitely include 4K video in their soon to be announced D5 camera.

If Canon decides to include this feature, I feel it may be a mistake because it can distract from the raison d'etre of the camera, namely to be the best DSLR camera on the market for still photography. Canon should not be pressured to add this feature just because Nikon feels it must match the Sony A7R II's features.

Canon already experimented with the EOS-1D C camera, basically an EOS-1D X body, combined with enhanced video capabilities. The camera met with very limited success, especially when there are camcorders like the CinemaEOS C300 Mk II that can do a much better job at shooting videos. Canon marked down the price of the EOS-1D C and I expect them to discontinue this model some time in 2016.

You know the time for the replacement camera is near. I have seen new EOS-1D X selling for just a little over $4,000 on eBay and rumored specs are coming out of the wood works. The Autumn Silly Season has begun. Some even claim the new camera will come with WiFi and GPS, 61 AF points with all crosstype and f/8, plus even touch screen LCD.

One should pay little attention to wish lists and wild guesses. Canon is doing a great job plugging most of the leaks for this eagerly awaited camera. It will be almost 4 years since the EOS-1D X was announced. My best estimate is the EOS-1D X Mark II will come with a new sensor in the low 20MP range, powered by new Digic 6+ processors and additional processor(s) for metering and other functions. A new AF system and frame rates matching the current model but perhaps without mirror lockup and a state of the art LCD monitor. Oh yes, 'sadly and most probably', with 4K video capability.

My expectation is for Nikon to release their D5 camera first, followed by Canon. The announcement may come in Q1 2016, with delivery commencing late Q1 to Q2 of 2016. If Canon keeps to this time frame for the EOS-1D X II announcement, I would expect the EOS-5D Mk IV release to be a Q2 to Q3, 2016 event. Keep checking back for the latest news and developments.  

More Canon EOS-1D X Mk II Specs Surfaced

Canon EOS-1D X Mk II camera

Last week, I returned from my South Africa Wildlife Photo Tour. It was quite a successful trip and there are many close encounters with the Big Five plus other animals and birds. I have been posting some new pics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and will add new photos to my website once I have more time. Keep checking back for the latest images and you can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The current EOS-1D X camera has been my pick as the best full frame DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photography three years in a row. The long awaited EOS-1D X Mk II model may come with 4K video. If Canon decides to include this feature, I feel it will be a mistake because it can distract from the raison d'etre of the camera, namely to be the best DSLR camera on the market for still photography.

Canon already experimented with the EOS-1D C camera, basically an EOS-1D X body, combined with enhanced video capabilities. The camera met with very limited success, especially when there are camcorders like the CinemaEOS C300 Mk II that can do a much better job at shooting videos. Canon marked down the price of the EOS-1D C and I expect them to discontinue this model some time in 2016.

You know the time for the replacement camera is near. I have seen new EOS-1D X selling for just a little over $4,000 on eBay and rumored specs are coming out of the wood works. The Autumn Silly Season has begun. Some even claim the new camera will come with WiFi and GPS, 61 AF points with all crosstype and f/8, plus even touch screen LCD.

One should pay little attention to wish lists and wild guesses. My best estimate is the EOS-1D X Mk II will come with a new sensor in the low 20MP range, powered by new Digic 6+ processors and additional processor(s) for metering and other functions. A new AF system and frame rates matching the current model but perhaps without mirror lockup and a state of the art LCD monitor.

My expectation is for Nikon to release their D5 camera first, followed by Canon. The announcement may come in Q4 of 2015 with delivery commencing Q1 of 2016. Keep checking back for the latest news and developments.  

Wildlife Photography - Wildlife Photo Tour in South Africa, Day 9

Day 9 of my Photo Tour in South Africa. Wildlife sightings are quiet good. Came across 4 big male lions and their giraffe kill, a male leopard and its warthog kill, numerous Elephant, Rhinos, Cape Buffaloes and their calves plus an assortment of other animals and birds.  

No time to keep up with what's happening with the myriad of photography news but want to pass on the 'news' the long awaited Canon EOS-5D Mk IV may be announced just before the big WPPI Show in March of 2016. This show is geared towards wedding photographers, who are a big constituent of the current EOS-5D Mk III. However, I expect Canon to announce the EOS-1D X Mk II before the EOS-5D Mk IV but after Nikon announces their top-of-the-line D5 camera.

My Canon equipment is working reasonably well. There was a last minute substitute for me and I brought the EOS-1D Mk IV instead of the EOS-1D X and the EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS instead of the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens. It was a good move since most wildlife encounters are fairly close and with the Mk IV plus the 28-300mm, I am getting the rough equivalent of a 40 to 400mm focal length camera/lens combo, all in one package.

Call of the Wild - Male Leopard in Sabi Sand

2 month old White Rhino calf

The 3 Amigos - 3 of 4 male lions in a coalition pride 

 

The most endangered large carnivore in Africa - Wild Dog

Male Bull African Elephant traversing a water hole

Wildlife Photography - Photo Safari Tour in South Africa

* * *  Read the latest post on my South Africa Wildlife Photo Tour  * * *

I am off on a wildlife photography tour in South Africa. My readers know I was scheduled to go on this trip about 3 weeks ago but was prevented from boarding the plane at the airport due to some obscure South African Immigration rule requiring a certain number of blank passport pages. Right now is the high season for wildlife safaris down there. It took me a long time and additional expenses to sort things out with the lodges, airlines and U.S. Passport Office. With the help of my travel planner, I am finally able to re-book the trip.

My journey takes me to Kruger National Park and several neighboring game reserves. Kruger is one of the largest national parks in Africa, with an area of about 7,600 square miles. That is larger than a few states in the New England region of the U.S. The reserves adjacent to Kruger National Park, Timbavati and especially Sabi Sand and Mala Mala are famous for its populations of Leopards and Cheetahs.

The park and surrounding reserves are excellent places to capture 'Big Five' images of Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos and Cape Buffaloes plus Giraffes, Zebras, Cheetahs, Hippos and many more. There are also hundreds of species of birds to marvel and photograph for the ornithologist in many of us.

The reserves are characterized as ‘savanna bushveld’ with 6 different landscape types : acacia woodland, open woodland, mopane woodland, combretum woodland, mixed combretum woodland and mixed veld. The critically endangered African wild dog is also a regular visitor to these areas. The larger and rarer antelopes such as Roan, Eland and Tsessebe may also be seen but their numbers are still critically low.

Today is World Rhino Day. South Africa is the epicenter for the fight against poaching of endangered Rhinos. They have the most number of Rhinos left in the wild so poachers are flocking to Kruger National Park from neighboring Mozambique. The park rangers are doing a valiant job trying to stop the carnage but it is an arduous battle since their limited resources are over-whelmed by the poachers' increasing savagery and sophistication.

In the last few years, I have been keeping things simple and down sizing the equipment I bring on wildlife photo shoots. My safari equipment bag will have the EOS-7D Mk II , EOS-1D X , EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II , EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II , EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II , EF 1.4x III Extender and the usual accessories of filters, spare memory cards and batteries.

I will try and make a few blog posts and keep you abreast of any breaking photography news. time and energy permitting. In the meantime, you can visit my website MichaelDanielHo.com to see more wildlife photos from my previous trips.

Wildlife Photography - Photo Tour Shock, Going To South Africa

Leaving on a jet plane. Almost

* * *  Off on my rescheduled South African Photo Tour, finally  * * *

The most unpleasant and unbelievable thing happened to me in all my years of globe trotting. While embarking on my photo tour to South Africa, I was denied boarding on the British Airways plane because of an obscure SA immigration regulation that says, " ... all non South African nationals' passports must contain at least 1 unused visa page for entry/departure endorsements by South African Immigration Service. This does not include the page reserved for "Observations" or "Amendments and Endorsements" 

Due to my frequent foreign travels, I have a half unused visa page left but can still accommodate an entry and exit stamp, plus 2 blank Endorsement pages on my passport. Immigration officials in other countries routinely put their stamps on these pages. Despite my pleas, the BA staff refused to let me on the plane due to an abundance of caution because they said the Immigration Officer at the port of entry can deny me admittance for the above technicality. I could have taken my chances but decided it was not worth the risk, in case the immigration officer got out of the wrong side of bed that morning.

As many of you know, this is a long holiday weekend in the U.S. The earliest I can have an appointment with the US Passport Office is Tuesday, in order to get additional passport pages. Right now is the peak season for South African safaris. All my travel and lodge arrangements are fixed and cannot be changed. By the time I get the additional passport pages and arrive in South Africa, my safari reservations will be almost over and the extra costs I have to incur to get there late will only add insult to injury. So I ended up back home and the whole trip is a complete loss.

Next week, I am going into the Passport Office and getting a new book with 52 pages. Hopefully, this will last me a while because there are still many foreign trips on my schedule coming up. I have this piece of advice to all my readers, get the passport with the most pages when you apply for one. One has to be philosophical about these things. Looking on the bright side, this will give me a little more time (unexpected) to go over images from my past trips. I am so far behind on processing my pics from years past. You can see my wildlife photos from previous tours, including South Africa, on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Planning To Add WiFi To Pro DSLR Bodies?

To date, the only prosumer Canon DSLR that has WiFi is the EOS-6D full frame camera. Apparently, Canon has problem adding WiFi to other higher end models like the EOS-1D X, EOS-5D Mk III, EOS-7D Mk II because of the interference created by their magnesium bodies.

Now a discovery in one of Canon's patents may shed some light on this topic. Has Canon finally worked out the difficulties in adding connectivity to their higher end cameras? Will we see WiFi added to the upcoming EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV DSLRs?

US Patent US 9,113,062 B2

“Conventionally, there has been proposed a configuration of an imaging apparatus in which a wireless communication unit is arranged on the top side of a pentaprism in a finder section (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2008-244735). However, an accessory shoe for providing communication by being connected to an external device such as a strobe is provided on the visible face of an imaging apparatus.

Therefore, the metal section of the accessory shoe disturbs a radio wave to be emitted from or received by the antenna section of the wireless communication unit upon wireless communication, so that stable communication state cannot be obtained. In addition, the clearance between the wireless communication unit and the accessory shoe needs to be ensured, resulting in an undesirable increase in size in the height direction of the imaging apparatus.

Accordingly, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-75381 discloses a configuration in which the wireless communication unit is arranged on the inclined surface (Dach surface) of the pentaprism such that the accessory shoe does not disturb a radio wave upon wireless communication.”

Canon EOS-1D X Firmware 2.0.8 Coming

* * *  Canon has released Firmware Version 2.0.8 for the EOS-1D X camera  * * *

* * *  Read the latest post on the Canon EOS-1D X Mk II camera  * * *

Canon returned my camera equipment after servicing a few days ago. Among them is my EOS-1D X camera. Except now it has Firmware Version 2.0.8 loaded on it. This is nothing unusual. The Service Department routinely installs the latest firmware available to them. I doubt this version will have anything major. Probably mostly minor fixes to a model awaiting upgrade. Canon should make the new firmware available to the general public soon.

With the announcement of the EOS-1D X Mk II expected in Q4 of 2015, the time for any major software upgrade has been exhausted already. After all, Canon released their last major firmware upgrade on May 2014. That version was the Firmware 2.0.3

More Canon EOS-1D X Mk II Camera Talk

Canon EOS-1D X Mk II camera?

* * *  Read the latest post on Canon EOS-1D X Mk II camera  * * *

I am still on my Alaskan wildlife photography tour. Going through some of the photography news and rumors from the last 2 weeks, I have noticed a few postings on the upcoming Canon EOS-1D X Mk II camera. The rumors are all over the map, ranging from 24MP sensor to the DIGIC 7 processors.

My previous posts cast doubt on the possibility of the DIGIC 7 processor. Most probably it will be powered by a dual DIGIC 6+ and an additional DIGIC 5+ processor for metering. The 24MP sounds about right and a new AF system is expected as well. You can follow my tour on Facebook and Twitter and see more of my photos on MichaelDanielHo.com

Wildlife Photography - Alaskan Photo Tour, Day 10

* * *  Off to another wildlife photo shoot on a continent far, far away  * * *

I am still on my wildlife photo tour of Alaska. Arrived in South east Alaska a few days ago for more wildlife photography. The Brown bear encounters were quite good in Round 1 of my tour. Now in Round 2, the whales sightings are OK and I have taken a few decent photos.

Those who are familiar with SE Alaska will know the weather is, as usual, gray and wet. I was lucky to have witnessed a pod of Killer whales hunting a Stellar Sealion. The pod took about two hours to finish the job, taking their time to teach the young and inexperienced members the art of the hunt. It was exciting and sobering to watch at the same time.

This year I did not witness any bubble net feeding by the Humpback whales but they did come very close to my small boat and performed a few full breaches. Just posting a few shots of whales after a quick look at the photos. Heading to another part of South east Alaska tomorrow for Round 3 of more wildlife photography. Visit my website MichaelDanielHo.com to see more wildlife photos of my previous trips to Alaska.

Killer whale hunting Stellar sealion in SE Alaska

Killer whales cruising SE Alaskan waters

Humpback whale making a full breach in South east Alaska

Wildlife Photography - Alaskan Photo Tour, Day 8

* * *  Read the latest post on my Alaskan Wildlife Photo Tour  * * *

I am on a wildlife photo tour of Alaska. Just made it out of the Katmai side of the Cook Inlet after 6 days and arrived in south east Alaska for more wildlife photography. While I was on the Katmai side, there was a 6.2 magnitude earthquake one day but the shaking was not as bad as I feared. The Brown bear encounters were quite good and I have taken quite a few photos.

Those who are familiar with SE Alaska will know the weather is, as usual, gray and wet. This is the first time I have Internet access and am looking through a few of the images. Going through my emails, I have received an invitation to attend the Canon Expo 2015 in New York City in early September. This exclusive event is held once every 5 years to highlight the latest innovation and products from Canon and for attendees to meet the 'movers and shakers' of the company. Unfortunately, I will be out of the country on another photo shoot at that time. If anyone is interested in attending this event as my 'representative', contact me via my website MichaelDanielHo.com and I will see if Canon will permit a substitute in my place.

I am enclosing a few photos (cell phone and camera) from my trip so far, as I am going through the lot at a quick glance. Too tired to really look closely at all those unprocessed images. The processed photos will have to wait till I return home.    

Flying into Alaska

Flying into Katmai side of Cook Inlet

Walk, don't run

Dueling (baby) Canines

Please don't eat my flowers

Wildlife Photography - Tales By Light Trailer

Interesting trailer for the new TV program, Tales by Light, follows 5 wildlife photographers as they travel the world and share their photographs with us. You can see my wildlife photography on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Europe Launches City Guide Series

Bodiam Castle, East Sussex, England

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 6th May 2015 – Today Canon announces the launch of a series of downloadable and app based city guides that offer fresh and unique perspectives of six cities across Europe – London, Paris, Madrid, Berlin, Milan and Amsterdam. The curated guides invite consumers to explore the world around, look deeper and seek out the fascinating and beautiful stories that unfold everyday.

The introduction of the city guides is part of Canon’s continuing ‘Come and See’ brand campaign, the latest iteration of which features two freeclimbers who explore cities around the world from unique perspectives and breathtaking vantage points. The city guide series offer a more everyday look at cities, inviting people to take a fresh look at familiar landscapes and encouraging the discovery of hidden locations from unexpected angles.

To curate each exclusive guide, Canon has collaborated with six sets of influencers, local to each selected city. Each personality brings their passion, creative flair and area of expertise to offer their unique perspective on the tour stops mapped out :

    UK, London – Professional Parkour athlete and photographer, Scott Bass
    Spain, Madrid – Fashion and street style blogging duo, Mike & Gabriel of Cup of Couple
    Netherlands, Amsterdam – Professional photographers, Andres & Joyce of On a Hazy Morning
    Germany, Berlin – Graphic designer and blogger, Nina of Smaracuja
    Italy, Milan – Visual street artist, Alice Pasquini
    France, Paris – Photographer, Saúl Aguilar

Nigel Taylor, Consumer Imaging Marketing Communications Director, Canon Europe, commented, “In a world full of fascinating stories, breath-taking views and hidden gems, it’s natural that in the hustle and bustle of life we overlook and at times take our surroundings for granted. At Canon, we want to help consumers enjoy cities across Europe in all their unique glory. We hope that people will relish the opportunity to seek out new perspectives and in turn capture that beauty on camera or video to cherish forever”.

Downloadable City Guides

All six city guides will be available for download via Canon’s dedicated ‘Come and See’ website from May 1st 2015, inviting consumers to discover European cities as they’ve never experienced them before. In addition, the website provides consumers with insight into the ‘Come and See’ campaign, including videos featuring the influencers, as well as technology stories and product information.

City Guides via Canon Companion Apps

Each city guide will also be featured as part of Canon’s new EOS 760D & EOS 750D, and EOS M3 Companion apps, compatible with iOS and Android, consumers can download and use the app regardless of whether they own the product or not. Users will be able to navigate their way through guides and city maps and gain handy photography tips and advice to inspire and support them in their journey of exploration around each city¹.

Share your travel story with us!

City guide users are encouraged to share their favourite travel photos and experiences with the hashtag #comeandsee.

Canon EOS-1D X Mk II Coming With New Sensor

Canon EOS-1D X Mk II full frame camera?

* * *  Read the latest post on the Canon EOS-1D X Mk II camera  * * *

Canon announced the EOS-1D X camera in October 2011 and delivery started in the second half of 2012. This means the camera has been on the market for about 3 years now. I bought one of the earliest production models and have made it my main wildlife camera body since. My readers know I have picked this to be the best full frame DSLR for sports and wildlife photography. The camera received a major firmware upgrade in January 2014. When the action is a bit further away, I use the EOS-1D Mk IV and the EOS-7D Mk II, since I am not a big fan of extenders.

As a wildlife photographer using Canon equipment for 25 years and the EOS-1D series since 1989, I have followed the line with keen interest for many years. My biggest 'complaint' about the camera is the 18MP sensor does not offer enough pixels when it comes time to crop the photos. Since the EOS-1D X camera went into production, a few technological advancement have been introduced, including new processors, sensors and Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, etc. Canon plans to introduce the EOS-1D X Mk II some time late 2015 or early 2016.

Pre-production models are already in limited circulation among photographers who signed non-disclosure agreements. The Mk II camera will employ a new, higher pixel sensor, perhaps in the low to mid 20MP, with an unparalleled AF system and improved ergonomics. The rumors that Canon may employ Sony sensors are wildly exaggerated and the chances of them using a non-Canon sensor on their top-of-the-line model is nil to none. I hope the frame rate will stay at 12 fps. Frankly, I find the 14 fps (with mirror lockup) on the current EOS-1D X a bit of a gimmick. How many photographers are really using that speed?

Rumored to be slighter larger in size but perhaps maintaining roughly the same weight due to improvement in material and a new battery. The main processor may be either the souped-up, dual DIGIC 6+ or even the DIGIC 7 with additional processor(s) for an advanced metering system. Dynamic range is rumored to surpass any DSLR on the market although I don't see that as being the most sought after quality in the new camera. An unparalleled high ISO performance and new AF system will be better welcomed in my opinion.

My own view is Canon rarely introduces a brand new processor on their flag ship models. Instead, they put it on their lower end products first and let the kinks work itself out before putting it in their top-of-the-line cameras. Every new Digic processor in the last few years has been introduced that way and I doubt the DIGIC 7 will be any different.

The new camera will be an evolutionary step up from the Series I model. Canon is known as a conservative company and occasionally breaks their mold but I am always prepared to be surprised. Keep checking back for the latest information as I receive them.