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.   

Nikon D5 Photos Leaked. Canon EOS-1DX Mark II Next?

The long awaited Nikon D5 camera photos have leaked. You can see them in my earlier post. The camera will probably be announced during the upcoming CES 2016 in Las Vegas in January.

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera will soon follow. I am in Central California on a short wildlife photo shoot to test out my Canon EOS-5Ds. My readers know I have recently retired my venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III and replaced it with the new 50 megapixel camera.

It is quite an impressive DSLR. I am most intrigue by the fact one can shoot 1.3x and 1.6x cropped images inside the camera without losing one stop. Don't really have time to look at the photos on the laptop but thought I might share a few images with you. I will take the EOS-5Ds on longer real world photo shoots after the New Year starting in the Southern Ocean and write a comprehensive review on it. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Elephant seal pup minutes after birth

Don't worry, Honey. I've your back

Happiness is Mothering

Canon Developed Material Appearance Image-Processing Technology

TOKYO, September 8, 2015 - Canon Inc. announced today that it has developed material appearance image-processing technology that, through the acquisition of material appearance information using digital cameras, enables printing that faithfully recreates such material appearance characteristics as gloss, plasticity and transparency, qualities that change in appearance depending on the orientation of lighting or the angle from which an object is viewed.

Material appearance characteristics are those qualities that determine an object’s look and feel, such as gloss, plasticity, surface contours and transparency. The acquisition of this information, such as surface contours and reflectance, in addition to color data, is essential for reproducing an object’s texture in photographs and other forms of printout.

Canon’s newly developed material appearance image-processing technology makes use of multiple Canon digital cameras, which are used to capture images of the target object, facilitating the digitization of such material appearance information as subtle surface contours and gloss. The digitized material appearance information is then used to faithfully reproduce the material appearance properties of the original object using a (UV-curable*) printing technology that is optimally controlled in accordance with its print characteristics.

Capitalizing on Canon’s expertise in image input and output devices, material appearance image-processing technology makes possible not only the high-definition representation of color characteristics, but also the printing of various material appearance qualities, such as those of metal, cloth and other materials. Additionally, as the technology is capable of faithfully recreating the material appearance characteristics of the original target object, it can be used to reproduce historically significant oil paintings and other valuable cultural properties. The creation of such reproductions could allow viewers to experience new ways of art appreciation by feeling the reproduced artwork, while enabling the original artwork to be preserved under optimal storage conditions.

In addition to the high-resolution photo printing technologies the Company has cultivated to date, Canon will further strengthen the development of this technology with the aim of expanding its application in such areas as wallpaper and other interior-use materials, advertising signage and product packaging.

• An inkjet printing technology that uses UV-curable inks, which instantly dry and adhere to surfaces when exposed to ultraviolet light. UV-curable inks have a hard finish and are highly resistant to water and direct sunlight.

Canon Developing High Sensitivity Network Camera

TOKYO, September 2, 2015 - Canon Inc. announced today that the Company is developing a high-sensitivity network camera equipped with a fast high-magnification lens capable of long-range color image capture even at night, making possible the viewing of subjects that the naked eye would have trouble discerning.

Amid ever-increasing safety and security concerns, a growing need for advances in surveillance systems has fueled demand for high-performance network cameras capable of clearly recording visual data night and day for such applications as urban surveillance and the monitoring of important infrastructure facilities.

Canon is developing a compact high-sensitivity network camera that will make possible the clear viewing in color of distant subjects even under conditions that would prove challenging to the naked eye, such as at night with few ambient light sources. The camera’s imaging capabilities will make it ideally suited for such surveillance applications as crime prevention and the monitoring of natural disaster sites, enabling the viewing of scenes during either night or day.

Drawing on a range of optical technologies Canon has cultivated over many years, the network camera being developed will feature a large-aperture ultra-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length of more than 600 mm (35 mm film equivalent) that achieves a bright F-value of 2.4 to allow large amounts of light to enter. The lens will incorporate aspherical and UD (Ultra Low Dispersion) lens elements that suppress the incidence of chromatic aberrations, which become more prevalent as a lens’s aperture size increases, while making possible a compact lens unit. The combination of the large-aperture lens with a high-sensitivity sensor and high-performance image processor will enable the color recognition of a subject’s face at a distance of 100 meters even in dark environments with a mere 0.08 lux of illumination, roughly equivalent to the illuminance of moonlight. By comparison, conventional nighttime surveillance to date has only been possible within a limited range with the aid of infrared illumination, or by using a night mode that only captures images in black and white.

Through the combination of an electric-drive pan/tilt function that control’s the camera’s orientation with the ultra-telephoto zoom lens, the network camera will be able to fulfill a wide range of surveillance requirements. In addition to the monitoring of natural disasters involving rivers or bays, for example, the camera will be well-suited for such applications as urban surveillance from the rooftops of buildings and for identifying automobile license plate numbers on roads, not only during the day, but also in settings in which nighttime surveillance is required.

Canon aims to commercialize the new network camera in 2016. Through the enhancement of the Company’s network camera lineup, Canon will respond to society’s ever-expanding monitoring and surveillance needs.

Canon Patent - Electronic Tilt-Shift Adapter for Any EF Lens

Canon has patented an ingenious electronic Tilt-Shift Adapter that can be used with any EF lens.

The patent application explains the process :

"    . . . . . the camera CPU 302 generates a signal to reduce an image pickup area of the image sensor 301 so as to make available the tilt-shift by the tilt-shift unit, when the image size of the interchangeable lens 100 is equal to the sensor size of the image sensor 301.

    [0071] In S007, the camera CPU 302 changes the image recording range for the obtained image to the range in which the light is not shielded by the tilt-shift operation. The changed range for the obtained image may be automatically selected by the camera side or the changed range may be set by the user."

For those who perform architectural photography for a living, a real tilt shift lens is a must but for the occasional tilt shift lens user, this small adapter can be very attractive. The patent reveals the adapter can also be used with lenses that have built-in Image Stabilization

The patent application explains the process :

"The camera CPU 302 calculates the shift difference amount based on the tilt-shift amount and tilt-shift direction in S107. In S108, the camera CPU 302 calculates the correction value of the driving amount of the image stabilizing lens 104 to correct the shift difference amount, and sends the correction value to the interchangeable lens 100 so as to drive the image stabilizing lens 104 by the correction value."

In addition to IS lenses, the patent also discusses the possibility of using sensor shift image stabilization in a similar manner. However, the adapter may not be able to operate on some older cameras.

 "This embodiment drives the image sensor 301 instead of driving the image stabilizing lens 104.

    [0080] The camera body 300 has an image sensor driver 309 configured to move the image sensor 301 in the Y c and Zc directions orthogonal to the center axis X. This configuration provides an image stabilizer configured to stabilize an image. The other entire structure is similar to that in the third embodiment . . . . "

For a look at the complete Canon Tilt Shift Adapter patent application, click here to download a copy.

Canon Announced New PIXMA Wireless Printers

MELVILLE, N.Y., August, 18, 2015 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced enhanced printers for its PIXMA printer line: the PIXMA MG7720, the PIXMA MG6800 series and the MG5700 series of Wireless1 Inkjet All-in-One (AIO) printers. Ideal for high-quality photo and document printing and creative applications, each model can connect to wireless networks easier than in the past for quick printing from the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY2 application with compatible mobile and tablet devices. Catering to the wants and needs of the everyday user, each model can also be used to create additional copies and scan important documents for archiving purposes as well. All of the printers utilize new genuine Canon inks, which provide deeper blacks and more vivid reds in photos for easy printing at home, and provide more visual impact for printing documents on plain paper than previous models.

The new PIXMA MG7720, PIXMA MG6820, PIXMA MG6821, PIXMA MG6822, PIXMA MG5720, PIXMA MG5721, and PIXMA MG5722 Wireless1 Inkjet All-In-One (AIO) printers now support Apple AirPrint™ wireless technology, allowing consumers and home office professionals alike to seamlessly print photos, emails, web pages and documents wirelessly from iPhone®, iPad®and iPod touch® devices2, without downloading or installing any device drivers.

In addition to each of the new models, other recent PIXMA printer models that are now compatible with AirPrint wireless technology include the following:

    PIXMA MG3620 Wireless1 Inkjet All-In-One Printer
    PIXMA MX922 Wireless Office All-In-One Printer
    PIXMA MX532 Wireless Office All-In-One Printer
    PIXMA MX492 Wireless Office All-In-One Printer
    PIXMA iX6820 Wireless Inkjet Business Printer
    PIXMA iP8720 Crafting Printer

For a full list of all the printers from the Canon PIXMA lineup that support AirPrint wireless technology, please visit www.usa.canon.com/AirPrint.

To further expand upon the usability and effectiveness of the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY application and PIXMA Cloud Link3, new features include the ability to print images directly from any Instagram4 feed, so special moments can live beyond the screen. In addition, Canon Easy-PhotoPrint+5 and Creative Park web applications can be accessed from compatible smartphones and tablets to share and edit individual photos using cloud technology as well. Also, documents can be printed from SlideShare and users can send scanned documents directly to OneNote®6.

Improving upon initial setup time as compared to predecessors, users can install the printer drivers approximately 30 percent faster with the PIXMA MG7720 printer. All seven models also have an improved wireless printing experience for compatible smartphone and tablet users through the updated Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY application, and can easily print and scan images and documents to several of the most popular online social platforms and services, such as Facebook®, Twitter®, Flickr®, Photobucket®, Dropbox®, Evernote®, Creative Park, Google Drive™ and Microsoft® OneDrive™. In addition, these models support Google Cloud Print™, for printing from Gmail™ and Google Docs™ on a compatible mobile device, and from the Google Chrome™ browser for Mac®, Windows®, Linux® and Chrome OS™ operating systems.

“We are excited to announce these new PIXMA printer models, including a new flagship model, that are ideal for anyone looking for a multi-purpose printer with simple, direct wireless capabilities for easy printing of photos and documents,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “With an improved start-up process, new ink cartridges, and an increase in compatible applications available making the printing experience more seamless, these printers cater to those that want to create high quality prints at home or on the go.”

The PIXMA MG7720 printer, which also includes the PIXMA Touch & Print feature that allows direct printing from compatible Android devices, along with the PIXMA MG6800 printer series, are the perfect creative tools for students who need to print on the go from just about anywhere using Canon Creative Park projects. Rounding out the new lineup, the PIXMA MG5700 printer series is the economical choice for printing homework assignments or other important documents at home while still providing creative features and quality photos. Each printer features Auto Power On/Off functionality, Auto Two-sided Print and PictBridge7 printing via wireless LAN for a direct connection to select Canon Digital Cameras.

All of the models also come with My Image Garden8 software to offer a variety of features designed to inspire and enhance creativity while empowering the sharing of images. My Image Garden also features Full HD Movie Print9 software to help users produce clear images of frames from videos captured on select Canon EOS Digital SLRs, PowerShot Digital Cameras, and VIXIA Camcorders.
PIXMA MG7720

In addition to the aforementioned features, the PIXMA MG7720 printer comes equipped with the Intelligent Touch System user interface and a 3.5-inch touch screen to easily navigate through various menus. This model also features six individual ink tanks to produce photo lab quality photos at home and professional looking documents. The PIXMA MG7720 printer will be available in black, white, gold and red and has an estimated retail price of $199.9910.
PIXMA MG6800 series

The PIXMA MG6800 printer series features an easy-to-use, 3.0-inch TFT touch screen for easy navigation and a five color individual ink set. It is also equipped with a dual purpose paper tray for plain paper in addition to photo paper where a beautiful 4 x 6 inch borderless photo can be printed in approximately 41 seconds11. The PIXMA MG6820 printer will be available in white and black while the MG6821 is available in black/silver and the MG6822 is available in white/silver. Each model has an estimated retail price of $149.9910.
PIXMA MG5700 series

The PIXMA MG5700 printer series includes the same five individual ink tank system as the PIXMA MG6800 series printer models where four of the inks are designed for use when printing a color document or image in addition to a dedicated ink tank for printing black and white text documents. These models are also capable of automatically printing a two-sided document to conserve paper. The PIXMA MG5720 printer will be available in white and black, while the MG5721 is available in black/silver and the MG5722 is available in white/silver. Each model has an estimated retail price of $99.9910.

For more information and the full list of product specifications, visit : http://printinginnovations.cusa.canon.com/pixma and see why sometimes it is best to print out photos.

Canon EXPO 2015 In New York City and Paris

Canon invited me to their EXPO 2015 in New York City but I will be away on a wildlife photo shoot. This once every 5 year, by invitation only, technology demonstration takes place in New York City on September 10-11, 2015, at the Javits Convention Center.

Bringing together Canon's most powerful products, cutting-edge innovations and inspirational ideas for one incredible exhibition. It will be a showcase of the ways Canon strives to improve the lives of all who interact with their brand. From homes to universities, businesses to hospitals, stadiums to movie sets, Canon EXPO 2015 New York is your rare chance to see the impossible, for yourself.

The EOS-5D Mk IV and EOS-1D X Mk II will most probably be mentioned at the show, together with some interesting development projects. Contact me on my website MichaelDanielHo.com if you want to attend in my place.

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

Canon Japan Announced C5 Mini Projector

Canon C5 Mini Projector

Canon Japan announced the Mini Projector C-5 in Japan, a pocket-sized mobile projector . Shipment is expected early August 2015 but there is no indication of price or whether it is available outside of Japan at this time. Silver and Blue are the color options. A tripod is included with the price.

The Canon C-5 is a small and lightweight projector, it measures 124×71×20mm and weights 169g. The C-5 features a miniHDM terminal, MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) standard is supported. MHL allows you to feed the projector with data from your PC, smartphone, or tablet. The LED light sources are stated to last 10,000 hours. The C-5 has a resolution of 640×480 pixels, a brightness of 50 Lumen, and a contrast rate of 800:1.

Specifications (machine translated) :

• Product name                         C-5 (Deep Blue / Silver of 2 models)
• Image element (number) One DLP ×
• Number of pixels                 640 × 480 (VGA)
• Real input resolution/aspect VGA / 4: 3
• Zoom                                 Fixation
• Focus                                 Manual
• Light source                         LED light source (life guideline 10,000 hours)
• Brightness                              50lm
• Contrast ratio                        800: 1
• Keystone correction         None
• Video input                        Mini HDMI × 1 (MHL compatible)
• Audio output                         Stereo mini Jack × 1
• Built-in speaker                  1W (monaural)
• Battery drive                       Up to three hours
• Dimensions                         124 (width) × 71 (depth) × 20 (height) mm
• Weight                                169g

More Talk About Canon EOS-1D X Mk II Camera

Canon EOS-1D X Mk II full frame camera

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

The Canon EOS-1D X camera was announced in October 2011 and delivery started in the second half of 2012. I have owned this DSLR from day one for about 3 years now and 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. 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 since Canon still has to 'catch up' with the dynamic range of Sony's best sensor, for those who chase the numbers.

An unparalleled high ISO performance and new AF system will be most welcomed. The upcoming Nikon D5 is rumored to have 173 AF points. Canon will offer a brand new AF system on the new camera, with many additional AF points and more importantly, unmatched number of double cross type points. A new viewfinder may accompany the new AF system. Canon has experimented with OLED displays on their test cameras and it may be considered for the Mk II as well. 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.     

Canon Announces Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash

Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT flash

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 8, 2015 - Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the new Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT external flash unit featuring - for the first time in the Canon 430EX series - radio-controlled wireless flash shooting capabilities1 designed to make creative light control more manageable and versatile for photographers of all levels. This third generation Speedlite is a perfect primary flash unit for amateur and advanced amateur photographers looking to create beautiful portraits with Canon digital cameras such as the EOS Rebel T6i, as well as professional photographers looking for a small and lightweight secondary flash.

"Canon is proud to offer outstanding photographic accessories that help enhance a photographer's overall creative experience when shooting with our EOS DSLR cameras," said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. "The new Speedlite 430EX III-RT provides photographers with a very responsive flash unit having new wireless capabilities that enable users to create more professional lighting effects than if they were to rely on their camera's pop-up flash alone."

Featuring enhanced functionality and operability over its predecessor (the Canon Speedlite 430EX II), the new Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT features wireless flash shooting via optical or radio transmission (similar to the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT but slave function only), now with shorter recycling time and quicker firing. This multi-functional flash unit makes more advanced flash shooting easy for any photographer with its intuitive, user-friendly operation, abundant bounce and swivel shooting functions and advanced features including a maximum Guide Number of 43/141 at ISO 100 in meters/feet, auto zooming from 24-105mm, Hi-Speed Sync and Second-curtain Sync. In addition, the Speedlite 430EX III-RT has been reduced in size and weight compared to its predecessor.

Featuring another first for the 430EX series of flash units, the Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT also includes an SCF-E2 Color Filter which helps balance color temperature when shooting in incandescent lighting, an SBA-E2 Bounce Adapter that helps soften light while helping suppress shadows, a built-in Catchlight panel, illuminated dot-matrix LCD, new control dial, light distribution options, multi-camera sync shooting, and remote shutter release. Enhanced functions include broader bounce angle range and flash exposure compensation via the new control dial. Also included are two cases - one for the flash and one for the filter and adapter.

Pricing and Availability

The new Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT flash is scheduled to be available in September 2015 for an estimated retail price of $299.99.

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.     

Canon Developing High-magnification 4K Field Zoom Lens

TOKYO, April 2, 2015 - Canon Inc. announced today the company is currently developing a high-zoom-ratio, long-focal-length field zoom lens that realizes exceptional imaging performance for use with 4K-capable broadcast cameras employing 2/3-inch sensors. Canon will exhibit a prototype of the 4K field zoom lens at the 2015 NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) Show, to be held from April 13 to 16 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A.

As 4K-resolution content, which traces its beginnings to the movie-production industry, continues to gain ground in the broadcasting industry, initiatives are currently underway to implement 4K broadcasting in countries around the world with an increasing number of professionals making use of equipment supporting 4K production.

The new 4K field zoom lens is being developed as a new model in Canon’s DIGISUPER series of studio and field broadcasting lenses, which have garnered high acclaim from professionals in the industry. In addition to realizing a high level of imaging performance supporting the capture of 4K-resolution video, the new lens will feature specifications and a body size that ensure a high level of operability and ease of use that are on a par with Canon’s HD broadcast lens models, making it ideal for a wide range of applications, including sports and live concert telecasts.

Although details regarding product specifications and pricing are yet to be decided, Canon is aiming to commercialize the 4K field zoom lens in late 2015, positioning it as the first model in the Company’s new UHD-DIGISUPER series of lenses that brings together Canon’s latest optical technologies for use with 4K-capable and other next-generation broadcast cameras. In this way, Canon will continue responding to the needs of a wide range of users by further strengthening its broadcast lens lineup.

Canon PowerShot G17 Coming Before June?

Canon announced the PowerShot G1 X II  last year and the PowerShot G16 was released in 2013. The G1X II is my favorite PowerShot camera in the lineup and now Canon may be ready to release the PowerShot G17 camera, after the 2015 NAB Show in April and perhaps before mid year.

Possible Specifications :

•     24-168mm
•     7x Zoom
•     f/1.2-2.0 Lens
•     DIGIC 6+ processor
•     Larger 1 inch sensor
•     3.2 inch LCD screen
•     WiFi and GPS
•     All magnesium body

The new camera may be slightly bigger and heavier than the G16 and the faster lens and larger sensor will be a welcome improvement in the PowerShot lineup.

Canon EOS-5Ds vs Nikon D810 Comparison

Canon EOS-5Ds vs Nikon D810 camera comparison

In the last few years, Nikon dominated the world of 'megapixel' full frame photography with their D800 and D810 cameras. Ever since the EOS-1Ds Mk III was discontinued by Canon and followed by the EOS-5D Mk III in 2012, equipped with a 22MP full frame sensor, many photographers are wondering when Canon will respond to the challenge.

Now Canon has announced the EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R 50MP full frame cameras with a delivery date of late June. On the face of it, Canon has retaken the MegaPixel crown so let us take a quick comparison of the two DSLR's main features from the stand point of a wildlife photographer.

Canon EOS-5Ds vs. Nikon D810

Sensor :   The EOS-5Ds has a 50MP sensor with a low-pass filter. D810 comes with a 36MP sensor and lacks the filter.

ISO :   EOS-5Ds has a native ISO range of 100 - 6400 while the D810 is capable of  64 - 12,800

AF Points :   61 points with 41 cross-type vs. 51 points with 15 cross-type

Speed :   5 fps vs. 5 fps and 7 fps with MB-D12 grip in crop mode

List price :   $3,699 vs. $3,000


My readers know I am not a fan of chasing megapixels. Anything over a low to mid 20MP sensor on a full frame camera is an overkill for me in wildlife photography. Shooting speed is more important for a wildlife photographer like myself. The 5fps and maximum 14 RAW file buffer on the Canon EOS-5Ds is too slow for me, even in 1.3x and 1.6x mode. The Nikon D810's speed improves to 7 fps in crop mode and maxes out with a 23 RAW file buffer, due to its lower pixel count sensor.

Lighting fast AF is crucial in capturing wildlife action. The EOS-5Ds has a newer, more robust 61 points system, with 41 more accurate cross-type points but only 1 center f/8 cross-type point. By comparison, the D810 offers less total and cross-type points, 51 and 15, but 7 more f/8 cross-type points. This comes in handy when using long lens and extenders to bring the action closer.

Low light performance is another crucial consideration in wildlife photography. Canon's EOS-5Ds comes with 1/3 increment adjustment from ISO 100 to 6400. Nikon's D810 offers better native ISO range, from 64 to 12,800, expandable to 32 - 51,200.  

The EOS-5Ds offers a more advanced metering system with a 150,000 pixel RGB/IR sensor while the D810 has a 91,000 pixel RGB system.

Battery life is another factor out in the field and the Nikon D810 has the edge here with a rated 1,200 shots in between charge while the Canon EOS-5Ds is rated at only 700 shots. The former comes with a built-in, pop up flash while the latter lacks one.

Both cameras are made of magnesium alloy, weather sealed and professional grade. The EOS-5Ds is slightly lighter at 29.8 oz and has a LCD screen with fewer pixels (1040K) while the D810 boasts a 1229K resolution LCD screen and weighs 31.1 oz.

The two cameras are pretty much evenly matched. The EOS-5Ds has the edge in AF, resolution and metering while the D810 wins in the high ISO and speed contest. Both cameras fall short compared to the Canon EOS-1D X and EOS-7D Mk II when it comes to wildlife photography. I will not be buying the EOS-5Ds but will wait for the EOS-5D Mk IV and the EOS-1D X Mk II later this year.

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II vs. Yongnuo Clone

DigitalRev compared the Chinese Yongnuo clone to the original Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens. While both lenses are made in China, the Canon model uses higher quality material and has superior design and quality control. There is more hilarity than surprise in this video clip but what's not mentioned frequently enough is, even if the clones work and may appear to be a 'good' value in the short run, they will turn out to be a bad choice in the long run, since their lack of reliability will inevitably come through with a little bit of time, perhaps right when you need the equipment to work properly.

I came back from a photo shoot in India earlier this month and my Indian friend commented to me some of the Canon models sold there are made in China and he was surprised to find the difference in the quality compared to the ones made in Japan. Moral of the story is, buy quality equipment, take care of them and they will do yoeman's work for you and retain its value when the time comes to sell them.  

Canon Tops For 12th Straight Year In ILC Market

TOKYO, March 26, 2015 - Canon Inc. announced today that the Company's interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLR and compact-system cameras) have maintained the No.1 share worldwide in terms of volume within the interchangeable-lens digital camera market for the 12-year period spanning 2003 to 2014.1

Canon develops the key components, namely the CMOS image sensors, image processors and interchangeable lenses, employed in its interchangeable-lens cameras. The most advanced of these technologies are incorporated across the Company's entire product lineup, spanning from professional-use flagship cameras to entry-level models, enabling the Company to maintain the top global share by offering a robust product lineup that effectively responds to the needs of a wide range of users.

In 2003, the dawn of digital SLR cameras, Canon introduced its breakthrough EOS Kiss Digital (EOS Digital Rebel or EOS 300D Digital in other regions). This groundbreaking camera, which featured a compact, lightweight design and was offered at a competitive price, set the stage for growth in the digital SLR market and enabled the Company to capture the top share of the global market. Since that time, Canon has continued to launch epoch-making new products, including the EOS-1D series of digital SLR cameras targeting professional users, and the EOS 5D series, which paved the way for digital SLR video recording thanks to its full-frame sensor employing a video-capture function.

In October 2014, targeting advanced-amateur users, Canon launched the EOS 7D Mark II, which has garnered high acclaim from the market for its fast continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second and superior autofocus performance. It is thanks to Canon's impressive camera lineup, including the EOS 7D Mark II, that the Company has maintained the No. 1 share in the market for 12 years running. Furthermore, in April 2014, Canon celebrated an impressive lens-manufacturing milestone with the production of its 100 millionth EF-series interchangeable lens for EOS cameras. The Company's extensive EF lens-series lineup, which currently comprises a total of 97 models,2 is one of Canon's biggest strengths, helping the EOS series to realize a wide spectrum of imaging possibilities and rich visual expression.

Aiming to further strengthen its wide product lineup, Canon introduced five new camera models in February of this year. The new lineup comprises the EOS 5DS and 5DS R, which achieve the world's highest pixel count among 35 mm full-frame sensor digital SLR cameras,3 the EOS 8000D (EOS Rebel T6s or 760D) and EOS Kiss X8i (EOS Rebel T6i or 750D in other regions) entry-level digital SLR cameras, and the EOS M3 digital compact-system camera, which achieves greatly enhanced AF performance.

Mirrorless Cameras Becoming Mainstream Like DSLR?

Canon announced the EOS-M3 mirrorless camera on February 6. This is their third attempt to make this line of mirrorless camera popular outside Asia. Although the EOS-M is selling well in Asia, it never caught on with the photography crowd in Europe and North America. Like the EOS-M2, the camera is not scheduled to be exported to North America but one can easily buy it through Amazon in the United Kingdom and Germany or DigitalRev in Hong Kong. Click here to see sample images taken in Japan with the pre-production camera. The Canon EOS-M3 will be available in Japan on March 26.

Canon USA - How To Make Photo Candles

Canon Grand Presentation 2015 In Osaka

The Canon Grand Presentation 2015 show is taking place in Osaka, Japan right now. The recently announced EOS-5Ds, EOS-5Ds R and EOS-M3 cameras are featured along with other Rebel DSLR models.