News
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Mamiya DM33 review
An edited version of this review originally featured over a decade ago in HotShoe International magazine. With the closure of Franke and Heidecke*, the medium format market has been dominated by just two players: Hasselblad and Phase One. Hasselblad has since chosen a closed system on their H4D series, preventing third-party backs from being fitted, while digital back-maker Phase One hastily became the majority shareholder of Mamiya. Phase One also deftly acquired the assets of back-maker Leaf from Kodak recently, giving the company a second line. Leaf’s higher-end backs are still marketed using their brand-name, but the three so-called “entry-level” 22/28/33-megapixel Aptus II models are being re-branded as the…
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From the past: Hasselblad H4D 60 review
An edited version of this review was published over a decade ago in F2 Freelance magazine. The last couple of decades have been turbulent for medium-format camera manufacturers, but now, after several well-known names have withdrawn, the market looks reasonably healthy. Two new unexpected entrants, Leica and Pentax, have added to the dynamic at opposing ends of the pricing scale, forcing the two established system players to compete fiercely in their traditional, rarefied role as well as in the “entry-level.” Partnering with both Leaf and Mamiya, Phase One has developed a trio of “entry-level” Mamiya DM models starting at under $14k/ £9k while continuing to offer a wide range…
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Fujifilm Fujinon GF30mm F5.6 T/S specs
Technical Data Manufacturer Fujifilm Model Fujinon GF30mm F5.6 T/S Web www.fujifilm-X.com Elements/construction 16 elements in 11 groups (1x Super ED, 3x ED) Angle of view 84.7° (diagonal) 24mm equivalent Tilt/Shift +/- 8.5° Tilt, +/- 15 mm Shift Max aperture F5.6 (9-blades, rounded) Min aperture F32 Min focus distance 0.3 m (11.9 in) Mount GF mount Filter size 105mm (with adapter ring), 72mm front cap* Length 135.8mm (5.5 in.) Diameter 87.1mm (3.4 in.) Weight 1340g (2.95 lb) Price £3,899 inc VAT ($3,999) The Fujinon GF30mm F5.6 T/S will be sold with an RRP of £3899 inc VAT. User manual at: www.fujifilm-x.com Additional coverage/press release. Pre-order: WEX UK | Amazon | Park…
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Canon has announced the RF mount EOS C50 cinema camera
Here are five key takeaways you need to know about the Canon EOS C50 cinema camera: Compact and Lightweight Design: The EOS C50 is Canon’s smallest and lightest cinema camera, weighing approximately 680 g (1.5 lbs), making it ideal for handheld and verité shooting in various settings. Advanced Imaging Capabilities: It features a new 7K full-frame CMOS sensor, dual base ISO 800 / 6400, open gate 3:2 mode for anamorphic and multi-format capture, capable of 7K 60P internal RAW recording and oversampled 4K up to 120p. It also has 32-megapixel still photo capture, positioning it as a true hybrid camera suitable for both video and photography. Versatile Recording Options: The…
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Five Key Takeaways from the Nikon ZR Full-Frame Cinema Camera specs
Nikon has announced the first Nikon-branded Cinema Camera after the acquisition of RED, the highly respected US-based cinema camera company. It’s a true hybrid in the sense that it adopts IP from both companies; the main components of the mirrorless Z6 III, including the sensor and Expeed 7 processor, and RED’s colour processing technology. As expected, the ZR features a rectangular box-shaped body, typical of entry-level cinema cameras. Here are the Five Key takeaways of the Nikon ZR Full-Frame Cinema Camera announcement: Camera Specifications and Features: The Nikon ZR features a 6K full-frame sensor capable of recording up to 6K/60p. It includes a Dual Base ISO of 800/6400, maintaining a…
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Sigma announces new 35mm F1.2 and 135mm F1.4 lenses for full-frame Sony and Leica cameras
Sigma has announced a new 35mm F1.2 DG Art series prime for Sony E-mount and Leica SL-mount cameras. This new DG II model is a completely new design and replaces the previous version. Being around 30% lighter and 20% shorter, it boasts a significant decrease in size and weight. The redesigned lens features one SLD element, four asphericals and an undisclosed number of elements made from high anomalous dispersion glass. It also features a floating element design by virtue of two High-response linear actuators, one each for the two focusing groups. When changing focus, the dedicated AF acutator in combination with the adoption of the aspherical elements “significantly suppresses focus-breathing,”…
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Lexar CFexpress 4.0 Type B 1TB limited time deal at Amazon
Amazon UK has a limited-time deal on Lexar CFexpress 4.0 Type B 1TB [affiliate link*] at just £259.99 instead of the usual £300+ price (inc VAT). As a new Gen 4.0 card, the 1TB Type B Lexar has 3600/3000MB/s read/write speeds and, more importantly perhaps, a sustained (max) 2600MB/s write speed. I have one myself, and it’s both super fast and reliable. While most cameras benefit from those higher sustained write speeds, a suitable TB4 card reader is necessary to get the best out of it in workflow terms. *As an Amazon associate, I may earn commission on sales via these links. It does not affect the price you pay.
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Key takeaways from the new Hasselblad X2D II 100C announcement
Here are the key takeaways from the announcement of the Hasselblad X2D II 100C camera: Advanced Autofocus System: The X2D II 100C introduces AF-C continuous autofocus with enhanced phase detection, expanding coverage from 294 to 425 zones. This system, powered by deep learning algorithms, improves tracking of moving subjects and includes a new AF illuminator for better performance in low light. True End-to-End HDR: This camera is the first medium format model to support true end-to-end high dynamic range (HDR) imaging. The Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS HDR) enhances colour accuracy and tonal depth, allowing for richly detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. Has a bright 1400 nit OLED…
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Five key takeaways from the new Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm F2.8 S II lens announcement
Here are the five key takeaways from the new Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens, announced today: Innovative Design: The lens features an internal zoom mechanism, making it the world’s first professional 24-70mm F2.8 lens with this design. This allows for consistent handling and balance while zooming, enhancing usability for both photographers and videographers. Lightweight and Durable: Weighing only 675 grams, it is the lightest lens in its class. The lens is also built with pro-grade weather sealing, making it more robust and suitable for outdoor use. Enhanced Autofocus Performance: Equipped with Nikon’s Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor, the lens offers 5x faster autofocus that is 50% quieter…
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Sigma 200mm F2 DG OS Sports and Canon EF 200mm F2L IS USM specs compared
Key Features of the Sigma 200mm F2 DG OS | Sports Lens World’s First 200mm F2 Full-Frame Mirrorless Lens: This lens is specifically designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras, offering exceptional optical performance. Exceptional Optical Performance: With a construction of 19 elements in 14 groups, including 2 FLD and 2 SLD glass elements, it delivers high resolution and contrast, even at maximum aperture. High-Speed Autofocus and Optical Stabilisation: Equipped with HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) for fast and accurate autofocus, along with a 6.5-stop optical stabilisation system for enhanced image stability. Durability and Weather Resistance: Features a dust- and splash-resistant structure, thermal insulation paint, and robust design, making it reliable in various shooting…