Images and Specs of Canon EOS-M6 Mirrorless Camera and EVF

Humpback whale breaching in Maui, Hawaii

Still on my Humpback whale photo shoot in Maui. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Images of the soon to be announced Canon EOS-M6 mirrorless camera and EVF have been leaked. I am waiting for their full frame, mirrorless camera with EF mount to be announced before buying a mirrorless model. 

EOS-M6 mirrorless camera specs :

• 24.2 MP Sensor
• DIGIC 7 Processor
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology
• 49 AF points
• Burst rate - 7 frames / sec (AF fixed: - 9 frames / sec)
• ISO 100 to 25600
• Shutter speed 1/4000-30
• Sync Speed 1/200 second
• Full HD, HD, VGA video
• 3.0 inch LCD tilt and touch panel
• Size - 112.0 × 68.0 × 44.5 mm
• Weight - 390 gram (0.86 lb)
• SD / SDHC / SDXC card slot
• Battery - LP-E17
• Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• Comes in Black and Silver
• Kit Lens – EF-M 15-45mm and EF-M 18-150mm
• List price - 729 Pound Sterling in the UK

Canon Cameras & Lenses Dominate at Super Bowl

Humpback whale breaching in front of Lanai, Hawaii

Still on my Humpback whale photo shoot in Maui. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Sounds like a broken record, but most professional and serious sports and wildlife photographers use Canon cameras and Super Telephoto lenses for their needs.


MELVILLE, N.Y., February 7, 2017 – On February 5th, top sports photographers from across the country gathered in Houston to cover the Big Game between the teams from New England and Atlanta. With an estimated 75 percent* of the photographers in the Houston 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. In addition to the EOS DSLR cameras and EF lenses on the sidelines, Canon’s line of HD broadcast lenses were also used extensively to help deliver the game to more than 110 million television viewers.

“It’s an honor to see yet another major sporting event where the country’s most talented and acclaimed sports photographers captured exciting moments with Canon equipment. These images will be seen by millions of people around the world and will forever be etched in sports history. We understand there are many equipment options for professional photographers and Canon is honored to serve these professionals and provide assurances that both our products and support live up to the requirements and expectations of our devoted customers,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

A full complement of friendly and knowledgeable staff from the Canon Professional Services (CPS) team, a fixture at major sporting events throughout the year, were on site at the stadium for most of the week leading up to game day providing comprehensive equipment maintenance, extensive equipment loans and expert technical support to the major photo agencies and individual professional (or media) photographers covering the game.

For veteran sports photographer and Canon Explorer of Light Damian Strohmeyer, this was his 30th time covering the big game as a professional, and he was well stocked with Canon cameras and lenses. “Leading up to the game, I always make sure to meet with the Canon Professional Services team to run through my settings and firmware, and ensure that my gear is as ready for the big game as the players are,” Strohmeyer said. “During the game, there’s so much action that you can’t be worried about how your equipment will perform. Depending on where the play is, I need to stay prepared for anything that may happen, with no time to switch lenses.

For this reason, I used three EOS-1D X Mark II cameras, equipped with EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, and EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lenses. After the game, I switched to an EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM wide angle lens for post-game reaction shots. Everything performed fabulously, and my images came out looking great!”

Canon Professional Services will be proudly attending to professional photographers at over 30 events this year including major sporting, auto racing, Hollywood, and political events throughout the year.

Tamron Announces 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens

'Moby Dick' - Humpback whale breaching in Maui waters

I am still on my Humpback whale photo shoot in Maui. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com


February 6, 2017, Commack, NY – Tamron, a leading manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, announces the launch of SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (Model A025), a new telephoto zoom lens product for full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras. Model A025 was developed by substantially enhancing the features of its predecessor.

Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD lens

These include a thorough review of the optical, mechanical and electronic designs to increase autofocus speed and precision, reinforce VC (Vibration Compensation) functions and to shorten the MOD. New features include eBAND Coating, Moisture-Proof and Dust-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating and compatibility with teleconverters.

The lens design features a metal-based barrel for improved handling and ease-of-use. The result of this dramatic evolution is Model A025, a high-speed telephoto lens that widens the scope of expression for photography in a broad range of genres, such as portraits, landscapes, sports and photojournalism. The lens is expected to be available in the U.S. in March at $1299.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

Outstanding resolution and contrast reproduction performance, beautiful bokeh and full compatibility with Tamron teleconverters

Based on the current model (A009), the optical design has been revised and improved. Both the resolution and contrast reproduction performance far exceed the present levels. Bokeh has been enhanced and expanded to deliver outstanding background effects across the entire zoom range. Use of a circular diaphragm with nine blades further improves bokeh. The optical design of the new A025 consists of 23 elements in 17 groups.

Optimum deployment of XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements thoroughly eliminate chromatic aberrations, which tend to become particularly prominent in high-speed telephoto lenses, across the entire zoom range, while ensuring uniform, high-level image quality even on the periphery of the image plane.

The new lens is also fully compatible with the TELECONVERTER 1.4x (Model TC-X14) and TELECONVERTER 2.0x (Model TC-X20)1, which increase the focal length of the lens to 1.4 times and 2 times the original, respectively. Both teleconverters are carefully designed and constructed to provide outstanding high quality.

Improved VC system provides highest Vibration Compensation ability in its class3 (5 stops using CIPA standard compliant) and offers three situation-specific VC modes

Utilizing Tamron’s original VC (Vibration Compensation) system, which uses a moving coil mechanism, further reinforcement of the drive system power and control performance has now achieved the highest VC level in its class, with an image stabilization performance of 5 stops according to the CIPA standard (using VC Mode 3).

Also, the VC system of Model A025 offers three VC modes, including one mode exclusively for panning. Photographers can freely choose between the different VC modes according to their shooting conditions. Even when telephoto shooting in low light, which tends to be severely affected by camera shake, photographers can now enjoy jitter-free handheld shooting with much greater flexibility.

VC MODE 1 is the standard mode that strikes a great balance between the stability of the viewfinder image and the stabilization effects.

VC MODE 2 is exclusively used for panning.

VC MODE 3 prioritizes the stabilization of the captured images and forgoes the stabilization of the viewfinder image.

With the optional accessory TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, you can customize the configuration of VC MODE 1. Choose the viewfinder view of either standard or image priority.

Demonstratively improved autofocus speed and responsiveness

Model A025 is equipped with a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ring-type ultrasonic motor, whose outstanding responsiveness and control ensures accurate high-speed focusing. Incorporating two advanced, high-performance microcomputers and optimizing the algorithm has improved both the focusing speed and accuracy compared with SP 70-200mm (Model A009). Additionally, thanks to the Full-time Manual Focus override mechanism, photographers shooting with AF can instantaneously make fine focusing adjustments using MF without wasting time by switching the AF-MF mode back and forth.

Focuses closer (shorter Minimum Object Distance, or MOD) for greater versatility
Improvements made to the focus cam and zoom cam inside the lens barrel have reduced the MOD from 50.7 inches in the older Model A009 to 37.4 inches for Model A025, which has a maximum magnification ratio of 1:6.1. The shorter MOD, coupled with the excellent optical performance of the SP 70-200mm (Model A025), allows photographers to further broaden their range of expression.

Optimized and exclusively designed eBAND Coating

The new A025 features Tamron’s original eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating, a technology that combines a nano-structured layer with an extremely low refractive index with the conventional multiple-layer coatings. Optimized and exclusively designed for this new zoom, the eBAND Coating provides superior anti-reflection performance, effectively reducing any flare and ghosting. Even when taking backlit portraits, the new lens delivers flawless, crystal clear images.

Moisture-Proof and Dust-Resistant Construction

Ideal for use in outdoor photography, the new 70-200mm telephoto zoom has moisture-resistant construction because special sealants that are dust-resistant and moisture-resistant are used at every joint and seam. The sealant material helps to prevent the intrusion of any dirt, dust or water droplets, compared to conventional Moisture-Resistant Construction.

Fluorine Coating for greater protection

The front surface of the lens element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that is water- and oil-repellant. The lens surface is easier to wipe clean and less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, dust, moisture and fingerprints.

Electromagnetic diaphragm system now used also for Nikon-mount lenses

An electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now available for Nikon-mount lenses4. More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by the motor through electronic pulse signals.
Lightweight and easy-to-hold tripod mount is compatible with Arca-Swiss style quick release plates
A new textured grip and Arca-Swiss style tripod interface enhances both speed and utility. Because the tripod mount is made of lightweight magnesium, it is much easier to carry.

Compatible with TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, an optional accessory product

The optional TAP-in Console provides a USB connection to a personal computer, enabling users to easily update the lens firmware as well as customize features, including fine adjustments to the AF and VC.

Based on the rigorous quality standards worthy of the SP series, this new lens is manufactured with a thorough attention to details

For the SP series products in particular, Tamron has established rigorous design and quality standards. These standards apply to the optical design, mechanical design and the cosmetic appearance, as well as to such wide-ranging areas as the product’s robustness and improvements in the various individual functions. Tamron thoroughly reviews all of the design and manufacturing processes in order to offer products to customers with even-higher levels of precision and quality.

For the SP 70-200mm G2 (Model A025), the optical design was refreshed, mechanical parts were improved and a new exterior design was adopted. To maximize the optical performance intrinsic to this product, Tamron improved the accuracy of the component parts and increased the precision of the overall zooming mechanism.

• 1. For more detailed information about teleconverters, please refer to the Tamron website.
• 2. Subjects with low contrast and/or luminosity values can sometimes result in out-of-focus images.
• 3. Among 70-200mm F/2.8 interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras (as of January, 2017; Tamron)
• 4. Available only with cameras compatible with the electromagnetic diaphragm (D3100, D3200, D3300, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7000, D7100, D7200, D300, D300s, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800E, D810, D810A, D3x, D3s, D4, D4s, Df, D500, D5). (As of January, 2017; Tamron)

Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera Coming Soon

Good morning USA. Maui, I love you THIS much

Still on my Humpback whale photo shoot in Maui. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

As reported earlier, Canon is expected to announce two new EOS Rebel cameras just before CP+ Show in Yokohama, Japan later this month.

Canon EOS 77D (T6s replacement)

• Body · 18-55mm kit · 18-135mm IS USM kit
• SKU: 1892C001

Canon EOS Rebel T7i (T6i replacement)

• Body · 18-55mm kit · 18-135mm IS STM kit
• SKU: 1894C001

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM

• SKU: 1620C001

Canon BR-E1

• SKU: 2140C001
• Remote controller

Tamron To Announce 70-300mm f/4-5.6 & 70-200mm f/2.8 Di Vc Lenses Soon

I am on a Humpback whale photo shoot in Maui. You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Humpback whale calf breaching in Maui, Hawaii

Just a quick note to my readers to inform you Tamron is about to announce their 70-300mm f/4-5.6 and 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD lens for Canon and Nikon cameras.

Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC USD lens

The announcement should coincide with the CP+ show in Yokohama, Japan later this month. The new lenses boast improved AF capabilities and reduce camera vibration. 

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 - Photo Safari in Alaska

I am off on a photo shoot in Alaska. This state is big and wild, the last frontier of the United States - over 663,000 square miles. It is about twice the size of Texas, over three times the size of California and about seven times the size of the United Kingdom.

Although Alaska is home to lots of glaciers and snow, the summer months can be pleasantly 'warm', by Alaskan standards, of course. Protected by the Chugach Mountains and the Alaska Range and warmed by Pacific Ocean currents, Anchorage, the largest city in the state, has a temperate maritime climate. Summer temperatures can reach into the high 70s. Low humidity also contributes to Anchorage's comfortable climate. However, temperatures can vary greatly depending on the region one may visit.

Every year, Pacific salmon by the millions return to the rivers and streams on the west coast of many parts of North America to spawn. Alaska gets its share of returning salmon along with all the riches a healthy rain forest ecosystem provides.

South East Alaska has the largest temperate rain forest in the world. Its waters are rich in salmon, krill (shrimp-like organisms), herring and small baitfish. Humpback whales return to Alaska every summer to feed on this abundance and they can consume about a ton of food per day, per whale. Brown and Black bears, Sea-lions, Bald eagles, Orcas and other predators, all share in this summer harvest.

I really need to catch a break and get some spectacular wildlife photos. My last two trips to the high Arctic and India in recent months have produced only mediocre images due to the lack of exciting encounters. Wish me luck on this trip. In the meantime, you can follow my travel on Facebook and Twitter and visit my website MichaelDanielHo.com to see photos from my previous trips.