Our reader Bruce (thanks!) discovered a newly published patent from Viltrox for a tilt-shift lens featuring electronic contacts—possibly for autofocus or just EXIF data recording. The patent clearly shows it’s designed for the E-mount system, likely full-frame. According to Bruce, it typically takes around 6 to 12 months for a product to be officially announced after a patent is granted.
Based on the design I created this realistic AI image:
Camera Intelligence Launches Caira, the World’s First AI-Native Mirrorless Camera with Onboard Generative AI, on Kickstarter (Click here). This is NOT an E-mount camera abut a curious project that might give us a glimpse into the future of photography?
The third generation of DxO’s pioneering technology, DeepPRIME 3, delivers unprecedented image quality — free of noise and with exceptional color rendering — for images captured at high ISO levels.
DeepPRIME XD technology is designed for the most demanding files captured in challenging conditions. It not only removes noise but also extracts outstanding detail from RAW files. Introduced in DxO PureRAW 5, DeepPRIME XD3 for X-Trans brings DxO’s most advanced denoising to Fujifilm users.
Exclusive to DxO software and backed by over 20 years of research, DxO Modules automatically optimize lens sharpness and correct distortion, vignetting, and chromatic aberration for more than 100,000 camera and lens combinations.
New in DxO PureRAW 5.5, integration with Photoshop’s Smart Filters gives users complete control, allowing them to revisit DxO PureRAW settings at any time.
Re-organizable masks with improved labelling — With this update, users gain even greater control over their local adjustments. Masks and sub-masks can now be freely reordered, making it easier to keep complex edits organized and intuitive. When a mask is duplicated, the software automatically labels the new version with a sequential number, saving time and avoiding confusion. These refinements streamline workflows and help photographers stay focused on the creative process.
New PhotoLibrary filters — File management and image curation become even more efficient in DxO PhotoLab 9.2 thanks to three new filters designed to speed up how photographers locate their work. Alongside existing options, users can now instantly display only Unedited Images, quickly isolate Edited Images, or focus specifically on Edited Images featuring Local corrections. These filters simplify navigation and editing across large photo libraries.
Improved History panel for Windows — Already available on macOS, the History panel now remembers every step of an edit even after the software is closed and reopened. Windows users can step back to any point in their workflow across multiple sessions, ensuring complete editing continuity.
Nik Collection 8 -> 15% off with our code “Rumors15”
30 authentic paper surfaces — Inspired by traditional photographic, artistic, and antique papers, the new textures add grain, depth, and character to images.
Fine control — Adjust intensity, blend modes, and tonal integration to achieve everything from subtle mood to striking artistic impact.
Effortless workflow — Nik Collection 8 integrates seamlessly with Adobe Photoshop and works efficiently alongside DxO PhotoLab, Adobe Lightroom Classic, and Affinity Photo.
The massive Sony holiday savings started today and you can find them on those pages at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama. And the additional $50 cashback has been extended to January 1st!
A source (Thanks!) just sent me this image with the following text:
SIRUI is Coming up with Astra Series Full Frame Anamorphic Lenses WITH Autofocus. As far as I know L-Mount, E-Mount and Z-Mount. First 50, 75 and 100mm T1.8, 1.33x later more. First look optically seems pretty good so far. No Info about Price.
Xlaserlab has launched the new E3 UV engraver on Kickstarter (Click here). And it’s selling hot!
This compact, industrial-grade ultrafast UV laser engraver isn’t just for makers and tinkerers—it’s a precision powerhouse that can engrave on virtually any surface, including glass, wood, metal, acrylic, leather, and even stone. For photographers, that opens up some exciting possibilities:
Custom prints on wood, leather, or metal — a tactile, premium alternative to paper
Personalized branding on photo albums, boxes, or USB drives
Etched signature logos on camera gear, packaging, or promotional gifts
One-of-a-kind client keepsakes, like engraved portraits or wedding dates on slate or acrylic
Thanks to its ultrafast femtosecond laser technology, the XLaserlab E3 produces incredibly sharp, detailed engravings without burning, melting, or damaging delicate materials. It supports vector and raster files, has ultra-high 8000 DPI precision, and runs quietly from a sleek desktop enclosure.
For photographers who want to stand out — whether in portraiture, wedding, fine art, or commercial work — this tool offers a new way to bring physical storytelling to life.
The E3 is currently live on Kickstarter with early-bird pricing. It’s worth checking out if you’re ready to take your creative output beyond the image itself.