Sony Tidbits…


BTS Sony a7iii review

Sony A7 III vs Panasonic GH4 – Epic Battle Of Price (Peter Gregg).
Variable ND Filters: What are you Paying For? (Explora).
SONY 85mm E-Mount Shootout: Sigma Art 1.4 , GMaster 1.4 , Zeiss Batis 1.8 (TheHunterReport).
Sigma E-Mount Art Series für Sony at foto-zumstein.ch.
Sony 24-105mm F4 G Lens Digitally Digested Review (theDigitalDigest).
Instagram reaches 1 billion active users (Dpreview).

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USA press text: Sony Releases Tweaked RX100 VA with Boosted Performance

Sony US launched the new RX100VA in the USA:

Preorders: RX100VA at Bhphoto, BuyDig.

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Press text via Explora:

Tweaking an already stellar pocket-sized camera, the Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VA Digital Camera from Sony improves the existing RX100 V by increasing the buffer size to 233 images, reducing display lag time in the electronic viewfinder, and adding several small features over other aspects of the camera. With the 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor, the RX100 VA can output detailed images at sensitivities up to ISO 12800. The Fast Hybrid AF system has 315 focal-plane phase-detection points that cover 65% of the image area of the sensor and can achieve focus in as little as 0.05 seconds. That autofocus system is also capable of tracking subjects across the frame, even while shooting at high speeds. Sony’s BIONZ X processor enables continuous shooting up to 24 fps with the aforementioned buffer size of 233 JPEG images and improved High Frame Rate recording times.

Like the RX100 V, the RX100 VA can shoot HD video at 960 fps in High Frame Rate Mode and UHD 4K video at 30/24 fps. But a new feature of the RX100 VA is dual video recording, where the camera simultaneously records two video files at once. Also carried over from the RX100 V is Gamma Display Assist, which provides a more contrasty image while using a flat S-Log2 gamma, and the Photo Capture mode for pulling 8.29MP stills from your movies.

The RX100 VA keeps the same physical design as the RX100 V to keep compatibility with all accessories. A Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens still graces the front of the camera with an equivalent zoom range of 24-70mm and a fast f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture that provides incredible flexibility in a wide range of shooting scenarios. A pop-up 0.39″ 2.36m-dot OLED Tru-Finder EVF and 3.0″ 1.23m-dot tilting LCD give you crystal clear previews of what you’re shooting. The RX100 VA also keeps the same lens control ring, built-in ND filter, and customizable buttons as its predecessor. It also has Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities for connecting to a smartphone.

20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS CMOS Sensor & BIONZ X Image Processor
The 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS CMOS sensor of the RX100 VA can deliver outstanding image quality at up to ISO 12800 with incredibly fast performance. This sensor stacks the pixel area, a high-speed signal processing circuit, and memory to increase data throughput by over five times and deliver features such as 40x super slow motion, an Anti-Distortion shutter, UHD 4K video, and more. The sensor also has focal-plane phase-detection AF points for faster, more precise focusing in as little as 0.05 seconds.

This sensor is paired with the BIONZ X image processor and front-end LSI that improves the speed and throughput of the entire imaging system, enabling continuous shooting with AF/AE at up to 24 fps. An expanded buffer makes continuous shooting possible for longer bursts, up to 233 JPEGs. The front-end LSI is also able to improve overall quality of the images, especially at higher sensitivities.

Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens
With a 24-70mm equivalent zoom range, the integrated Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens lends itself to a wide variety of shooting situations. The wide angle to short telephoto range is a favorite among photographers and it is further befitted by the bright aperture range of f/1.8-2.8. This enables solid low-light performance and excellent control over depth of field.Two aspherical lens elements are incorporated into the lens design, minimizing chromatic aberrations and ensuring clear images. Zeiss’ premium multi-layered T* coating also reduces ghosts and flare caused by light reflecting.
Fast Hybrid AF System with 315 Phase-Detection Points
The RX100 VA is equipped with an on-sensor phase-detection AF system that provides increased autofocus speed for both stills and video. The camera uses a hybrid system with 315 phase-detection points that covers 65% of the frame along with a contrast-detection system to provide fast, accurate focusing in a range of situations. The RX100 VA also benefits from reduced blackout for easier tracking when using the EVF or LCD.
UHD 4K Video Recording
The RX100 VA is a video powerhouse, delivering up to 5-minute UHD 4K movies with exceptional clarity. By using a full pixel readout without binning, the camera collects about 1.7x the information needed for 4K output. Oversampling helps to increase clarity while reducing the effect of moire and jaggies. Fast Hybrid AF is available during movie shooting for ensuring accurate, fast tracking using phase-detection AF points. The camera also offers Sony’s advanced XAVC S format for recording a high bit rates up to 100 Mbps.

Picture profiles and image controls are also available, including the S-Log2 gamma that can help expand the dynamic range by recording a flat image. Gamma Display Assist helps users view a more natural image when shooting with S-Log2. Other options such as timecode, zebras, peaking, and more are present for making shooting and editing easier. When recording internally, users will record video with a 4:2:0 sampling at 8-bit, but the RX100 VA can output via HDMI to an external recorder. This allows users to capture 4:2:2 uncompressed video and save in an edit-ready format.The camera also has a Photo Capture function, which allows shooters to quickly save an 8.29MP still from their UHD 4K movies. Additionally, the camera is NTSC/PAL switchable, making it usable around the world.

High Frame Rate and Slow Motion Shooting
Speed is a huge advantage of the RX100 VA, and in video users will benefit from advanced High Frame Rate shooting and super slow motion. In Full HD, shooters will have access to a standard 120 fps setting that will enable outstanding slow motion when placed in an editing software. In addition to this, the camera also offers a dedicated HFR mode which will boost the cameras frame rate to up to 960 fps. Videographers will have the option of recording in Quality Priority and Shoot Time Priority modes, depending on preference. The camera will output a Full HD file from slightly lower resolutions to produce high quality images at all frame rates. Additionally, an end trigger mode enables users to record 4 or 6 seconds before the record button is pressed so the perfect moment isn’t missed.
Body Design and Wi-Fi Connectivity
  • Pop-up 0.39″ XGA OLED electronic viewfinder offers a resolution of 2.36m dots for crisp, clear imagery. The EVF also uses a Zeiss T* coating to ensure clarity from corner to corner.
  • The rear 3.0″ Xtra Fine LCD screen can tilt upwards 180° and downwards 45° for shooting at different angles or for composing the perfect selfie. The screen sports a resolution of about 1.23m dots and WhiteMagic technology has been applied to the LCD’s design to increase effective brightness for easier viewing in bright lighting.
  • A manual control ring surrounds the lens and features a smooth, click-less design for quick and quiet changing of settings. The ring can be assigned to control a variety of features, at different values, such as zoom, aperture, and Picture Effects.
  • Custom button and other programmable buttons can be set to one of over 40 functions for quick access to commonly used settings.
  • A built-in 3-stop neutral density (ND) filter is available to enable working in bright light with wider aperture settings.
  • Pop-up flash will help illuminate subjects in dimly-lit scenes.
  • A redesigned menu makes flipping through settings easier.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables instant transferring of imagery to mobile devices for direct sharing online to social networking, via email, and to cloud storage sites. NFC (Near Field Communication) is also supported, which allows for one-touch connection between the camera and compatible mobile devices, with no complex set-up required. Once connected, the linked mobile device can also display a live view image on its screen and, using Smart Remote Control, remotely control the camera’s shutter release. Additionally, the RX100 VA can now connect to a smartphone using a QR code for faster access.
Other Camera Features
  • Anti-Distortion electronic shutter can enable completely silent shooting as well as the ability to work at shutter speeds as fast as 1/32000 second. This shutter also keeps rolling shutter effects to an absolute minimum and enables photographers to work in bright light with wider apertures.
  • Step Zoom lets you quickly change between five common focal lengths (24, 28, 35, 50, or 70mm) by rotating the control ring.
  • Clear Image Zoom allows users to enlarge the center of the still or movie frame being shot by up to 5.8x equivalent when using optical zoom as well.
  • Eye AF in AF-C mode will lock on and tack a subject’s eye, even as the face moves.
  • Users can set a minimum shutter speed when using ISO AUTO to help minimize shutter blur.
  • Creative Style settings: Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Clear, Deep, Light, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, Night Scene, Autumn Leaves, Black & White, and Sepia (all with +/- 3 step contrast, saturation, and sharpness adjustment).
  • Picture Effect modes: Posterization (Color, B&W), Pop Color, Retro Photo, Partial Color (R/G/B/Y), High Contrast Monochrome, Toy Camera, Soft High-Key, Soft Focus, HDR Painting, Rich-Tone Monochrome, Miniature, Watercolor, and Illustration.
  • Adjustable Picture Profile parameters: Black level, Gamma (Movie, Still, Cine1-2, ITU709, ITU709 [800%], S-Log2), Black Gamma, Knee, Color Mode (Movie, Still, Cinema, Pro, ITU709 Matrix, White & Black, S-Gamut), Saturation, Color Phase, Color Depth, Detail, Copy, and Reset.

Sony Tidbits…


Metabones SPEEDBOOSTER which is right for you?

Review: Sony FE 100 f/2.8 STF GM OSS Lens (Phillipreeve).
Colour Ratios, White Balance, and How to Use Them to Improve your Photography (Jpegmini).
What is the Best Camera for Beginners? (Explora).
Share your best pictures on our new Instagram SonyAlphaGallery.
VENICE overview: Part 1 with RedShark’s Jody Eldred
Shooting HFR: Q&A – Sony Pro Show Ep 3 (Sony Youtube).

Personal photos and tests from SAR Admin Andrea on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and 500px.

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https://www.instagram.com/p/BjxAhoogyxN/

Venus Optics 10-18mm FE lens preorders could open in September only

Venus Optics told me that preorders for the new 10-18mm FE lens are scheduled to start in September (if all goes by plan).

This is the press text of the two FE lenses that we still cannot preorder yet:

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Laowa 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 FE Zoom
This lens is currently the widest zoom lens available for Sony full frame E-mount cameras. Designed primarily for travel photography, Venus optics have managed to compress the size to smallest in its class, less than 10 inch (<10cm) and only 1.1 pounds (<500g). The 102° (18mm) to 130° (10mm) angle of view provides flexibility for photographers to compose landscape or architecture photos with ease. The lens houses with 14 elements in 10 groups with 2 aspherical elements & 1 extra-low dispersion element to deliver exceptional performance. It can focus as close as 15cm for some mini-macro shooting. A rear filter slot is included to fit with 37mm filter. Click/clickless aperture can be toggled by the switch on the lens barrel.

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO
Followed by the success of the Laowa 60mm f/2.8 2:1 Macro, the 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Macro is the 2nd member of Laowa 2:1 macro line-up. This new 100mm lens can cover full frame sensor size and focus from 2:1 magnification to infinity. The wide magnification range allows macro photographers to capture subject at any sizes. This 100mm portrait lens also features an apochromatic (APO) characteristic that no chromatic aberration can be found. The 12 elements in 10 groups optics design delivers a crystal sharpness image in both macro and tele distances. Canon EF / Nikon AI / Pentax K / Sony FE mounts are available.

All lenses will be available for trial at Venus Optics’ booth (T225) in Beijing P&E Imaging fair during 3rd-6th May 2019. They are expected to be shipped in mid/late 2018. Exact shipping date and pricing are to be confirmed.

Sony Tidbits…


Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master: First Look | 4K

Comparing the Best Ultra Wide Zoom Lenses from Canon, Nikon, Sony & Sigma (Lensrentals).
How Maroon 5’s “Girls Like You” Came To Life (Alphauniverse).
Cat & Philip’s Wedding Film shot on Sony a7RIII a7R II a6500 (Jason Vong).
Turn It Up Over 1:1 with Ultra Macro Lenses (Explora).
German Samyang 35mm f/1.4 FE review at Wimair.at
Adobe introduces Project Rush a cross-device video editing app (Newsshooter).

ersonal photos and tests from SAR Admin Andrea on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and 500px.

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Sony Artisan Marc Galer:

Just thought you may be interested posting a link to this feature-length masterclass movie. http://www.markgaler.com/sony-alpha-focus-masterclass

FOCUS MASTERCLASS

This movie seminar covers everything you wanted to know about using the Autofocus settings and Manual Focus settings on your Sony Alpha camera.

This 90-minute presentation covers the following Autofocus Settings 

• Focus Mode
• Focus Area
• Lock-on AF
• Priority Settings
• Track Sensitivity
• Back-Button AF

Also covered is Hyperfocal Distance, Focus Peaking, Magnify View DMF, Eye-AF, CDAF, PDAF and ways to customise the camera to recall groups of Focus settings with the press of a single Custom Key.

http://www.markgaler.com/sony-alpha-focus-masterclass

Skylum releases free Luminar 1.3.0 update (now fully supports Sony A7 III)

Skylum released the new 1.3.0 free update. If you plan to buy Luminar use the coupon code “SAR” you will get $10 off. The new update fully supports the new Sony A7III.

Mac New & Improved Features:

  • IMPROVED Raw Develop. The Raw Develop filter has improved handling of the Lens and Transform effects. Effects are not shown on the left side (Before) when using the Compare option. The effects are also not blended with original when using the Filters Amount slider.
  • IMPROVED Sharpening. The Sharpening filter is more responsive and accurate. As you adjust the controls all changes are visible in high resolution with real-time feedback.
  • IMPROVED Batch Processing. You can now export to several file formats including new options for PDF and JPEG-2000.
  • IMPROVED LUT Mapping. You can now easily scroll through your LUTs in the LUT Mapping filter. Just hover your mouse over a LUT and it updates in real-time.
  • IMPROVED Language Support. Luminar offers eight Improved localizations: Chinese, Chinese Simplified, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish.
  • IMPROVED Image History. It is now possible to use the “Save History” option when saving a file with the “Windows Compatible” option. Additionally, White Balance presets are now displayed in an image’s history with the preset name when using the RAW Develop and Develop filters.
  • NEW Plugin Support. The following third-party plugins can now be used via the Plugins menu: Imagenomic Noiseware 5, Imagenomic Portraiture 3, Imagenomic Realgrain 2, and DxO FilmPack 5.
  • IMPROVED Filter Controls. To save you time, all filter checkboxes can be enabled or disabled by clicking on the control name or the checkbox. Additionally, be sure to try scrubbable number sliders. Just mouse over the value for a filter and then click and drag left or right to move the slider.
  • IMPROVED JPEG Controls. Take precise control over JPEG and JPEG-2000 compression. You can see a numeric value for the Quality slider. You can also click on the number and enter a precise value.

Windows New & Improved Features:

  • NEW Faster opening of RAW-files. You can now open raw files much faster thanks to improvements in our RAW engine.
  • NEW White Balance Tool. A new White Balance functionality and eyedropper tool have been added to the Raw Develop, Develop, and Color Temperature filters.
  • NEW Image History. It is now possible to use the “Save History” option when saving a file. Additionally, White Balance presets are now displayed in an image’s history with the preset name when using the RAW Develop, Develop and Color Temperature filters.
  • NEW Layer Renaming. For all new layers, you add to a document (except for the original image) you can choose to assign a custom name. Just double-click on a layer’s name to edit it. This is a great way to organize adjustment and image overlay layers in your project.
  • IMPROVED Filter Performance. You can now add or subtract filters more quickly to an image.
  • IMPROVED Blending Modes. When you choose a blending mode for an Adjustment or Image Layer, the experience is even easier. Just hover your mouse over a blending mode and it updates in real-time. This is an easy way to simply mouse-over the list to find the perfect blending mode.
  • IMPROVED LUT Mapping. You can now easily scroll through your LUTs in the LUT Mapping filter.
  • IMPROVED Language Support. Luminar offers seven improved localizations: Chinese, Chinese Simplified, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish.
  • NEW Canvas Color. You can now set the Canvas background color to White. Choose View > Background > White to set the working Canvas to White or choose from other shades of gray or black.
  • IMPROVED Sharpening. The Sharpening filter is more responsive and accurate. As you adjust the controls all changes are visible in high resolution with real-time feedback.
  • NEW DNG Camera Profiles (DCP). Are you looking for truly professional control over your raw files? Then give DNG Camera Profiles a try. Luminar recognizes the industry standard DCP files that you may already have on your computer (or have bought from third parties).
  • IMPROVED Batch Processing. Windows users gain the useful Batch Processing improvements. These include the ability to “Replace or Skip Files” when saving the file with the same name when Batch Processing. Additional options include the ability to create JPEG and TIFF files as well as improved reliability when renaming and numbering files on export.

Here are the instruction how to get it:

The next time you launch Luminar, it should prompt you to update the software. You can also manually check for the update.

  • Mac – Please choose Luminar 2018 > Check for updates.
  • Windows – Please choose Help > Check for updates.