Sony A6300 and three new GM FE lenses announced!

Preorders:
A6300 body at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
A6300 with kit lens at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
24-70mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
85mm f/1.4 GM FE at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
70-200mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto.
Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter at BHphoto.
Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter BHphoto.

A6300 Key specs:
new 24MP sensor
11fps
4D focus
4K video (no pixel binnning 14 stops dynamic range, 100MPS)
world’s fastest af 0,05 sec
425 phase detect AF points
silent shooting
Ships in March for $1000 (body only)
Full press text here on SAR.
A6300 page at Sony.net.

diag1 frontsensor top tilting rear





Sony new GM lens line:
SSM focus, scaled up from smaller lenses for F2.8 glass
Three lenses announced:
24-70mm f/2.8 for $2200
70-200mm f/2.8  ships in may (Price to be determinated)
85mm f/1.4 for $1800 ships in March
Two teleconverters 1.4x, 2x will be available for the 70-200.
New 24-70mm vs old by Tony Northup.
Images samples by David from Imaging-resource!

FE_GM85mm

FE_GM2470

FE_GM70200



Sony press notes:
Sony A6000 has been the number one selling camera ever
40% growth in lens sales on yearly basis
Here’s the 85mm F1.4 circular aperture in action (Dpreview tweet).
Here’s what the 24-70 F2.8 looks like all chopped up (Dpreview tweet).
Live tweets by Hugh Brownstone.

Full video of the Sony press event via Imaging Resource:

Interview with Kenta Honjo from Sony

Kenta Honjo got interviewed by BH. Check it out!

Preorders:
A6300 body at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
A6300 with kit lens at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
24-70mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
85mm f/1.4 GM FE at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
70-200mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto.
Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter at BHphoto.
Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter BHphoto.

Sony announces the G Master lens line! Announces the 24-70mm 70-200mm f/2.8 GM and the 85mm f/1.4 GM

These are the first three new Sony G Master lenses:

24-70mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto (preorders on Feb 10)
70-200mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto (preorders on Feb 10)
85mm f/1.4 GM FE at BHphoto (preorders on Feb 10)

Bildschirmfoto 2016-02-03 um 16.17.32

Bildschirmfoto 2016-02-03 um 16.16.50

Sony new GM lens line:
SSM focus, scaled up from smaller lenses for F2.8 glass
Three lenses announced:
24-70mm f/2.8 for $2200
70-200mm f/2.8  ships in may (Price to be determinated)
85mm f/1.4 for $1800 ships in March
Two teleconverters 1.4x, 2x will be available for the 70-200.
New 24-70mm vs old by Tony Northup.

FE_GM85mm

FE_GM2470

FE_GM70200



The full 85mm f/1.4 GM FE lens specs and images!

FE_GM85mm

Preorders:
A6300 at BHphoto. 24-70mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto. 70-200mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto. 85mm f/1.4 GM FE at BHphoto. Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter at BHphoto. Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter BHphoto.

This is the long awaited 85mm f/1.4 Fe lens! A very first bokeh test image has been shared by Jordan:

Many images have been posted by David from Imaging-resource!

And here is the official Sony 85mm f/1.4 press text:

A prized focal length for portraiture, the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM from Sony is a fast, short-telephoto lens designed for E-mount mirrorless digital cameras. Characterized by its flattering perspective and fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, this lens is adept at isolation focus for shallow depth of field effects, as well as performing in low-light conditions. The optical design incorporates three extra-low dispersion elements to reduce chromatic aberrations and one XA (extreme aspherical) element, which significantly controls spherical aberrations for a high degree of image sharpness and clarity. Additionally, a Nano AR coating has been applied to limit ghosting and lens flare for increased contrast and color fidelity when working in strong lighting conditions. Pairing a bright f/1.4 aperture with a short-telephoto focal length, this 85mm lens is ideally suited for portraiture and other situations where focus control is paramount.

Complementing the optical assets, this lens is also notable for its inclusion of an 11-blade circular diaphragm to produce smooth, soft-edged bokeh with selective focus imagery. For controlling focus, a linear SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor) is employed that is quick and quiet, and also lends more responsive control for manual focus operation. The lens also sports a dust- and moisture-sealed design to support shooting in inclement conditions and a dedicated focus hold button, AF/MF switch, and manual aperture ring lend further control while shooting.

As part of Sony’s esteemed G Master series, this lens is designed to achieve notably high resolution and sharpness through the correction of a wide variety of spherical and chromatic aberrations. Additionally, these lenses feature robust and intuitive-to-handle physical designs to benefit both photography and cine applications.
A portrait-length prime designed for full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras, this 85mm f/1.4 is also compatible with APS-C models where it will provide a 127.5mm equivalent focal length.
Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture benefits working in difficult lighting conditions and also offers a wealth of control over focus position when using shallow depth of field techniques.
One XA element is incorporated into the optical design, which features superior surface precision for effective control over astigmatism, field curvature, coma, and other spherical aberrations.
Three extra-low dispersion elements are featured in the lens design and help to reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing for improved clarity and color neutrality.
A Nano AR Coating has been applied to reduce surface reflections, flare, and ghosting for increased contrast and color rendering in strong lighting conditions.
Rounded 11-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality when employing selective focus techniques.
A linear SSM system and internal focus mechanism provides quick, quiet, and precise autofocus performance and also contributes to more natural, intuitive manual focus control.
Dust- and moisture-sealed design better permits working in inclement conditions and rubberized control rings benefit handling in colder temperatures.
Manual aperture ring can be de-clicked for smooth, silent aperture switching to benefit video applications.

Product Highlights

  • E-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
  • Aperture Range: f/1.4 to f/16
  • One XA Element and Three ED Elements
  • Nano AR Coating
  • Linear SSM Focus System
  • Internal Focus Design
  • Focus Hold Button, AF/MF Switch
  • Manual Aperture Ring
  • Dust and Moisture-Resistant Construction
  • Eleven-Blade Circular Diaphragm

Full Sony A6300 press text

diag1

Preorders:
A6300 body at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
A6300 with kit lens at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
24-70mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
85mm f/1.4 GM FE at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy. Calumetphoto.de. WexUK.
70-200mm f/2.8 GM FE at BHphoto.
Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter at BHphoto.
Sony FE 2.0x Teleconverter BHphoto.

NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2016 – Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer, has today introduced the latest addition to their award winning lineup of mirrorless cameras, the α6300 model.

The camera boasts an unrivaled 4D FOCUS™ system that can lock focus on a subject in as little as 0.05 seconds, the world’s fastest AF acquisition time1.  Additionally, the α6300 has an incredible 425 phase detection AF points that are densely positioned over the entire image area – the world’s highest number of AF points on any interchangeable lens camera2, and can shoot images at up to 11 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking,

The impressive new mirrorless model also has the ability to support full live-view continuous shooting on the Tru-finder or LCD screen at up to 8 frames per second, ultimately producing a real-time shooting experience that combines all the benefits of an electronic viewfinder with the immediacy of a through-the-lens optical viewfinder.

The versatile α6300 is equipped with a newly developed 24.2 MP (approx.. effective) APS-C sized Exmor CMOS sensor that works together with a BIONZ X image processing engine to produce outstanding image quality throughout the entire ISO sensitivity range ISO 100 – 51200 3.  It can also shoot and record high resolution 4K video with full pixel readout and no pixel binning in the popular Super 35mm format.

“The α6300 is yet another example of the dominant innovation that Sony continues to bring to the industry, especially from the mirrorless space,” said Neal Manowitz, Vice President of Digital Imaging at Sony Electronics.  “With this new model, we’ve combined the world’s fastest and most extensive AF system with a superb image sensor and many of our most advanced imaging and video technologies, creating a package that can far exceed the performance of any DSLR in its class.   This camera connects you with the action like never before.”

Unrivaled AF Performance

Sony’s new α6300 camera builds upon the acclaimed 4D FOCUS performance of the α6000 model, utilizing a Fast Hybrid AF system that combines high-speed phase detection AF with extremely accurate contrast AF and allows it to capture and lock on to moving subjects in as little as 0.05 seconds1.  The camera’s High-density Tracking AF technology positions 425 phase detection AF points over nearly the entire field of view, allowing it  to accurately focus throughout a wide area – even on small, fast objects that other cameras would fail to recognize.

In addition to the extensive AF coverage, the α6300 debuts a new High-density tracking AF technology that significantly improves subject detection and tracking performance. This new technology can quickly activate a large number of AF points surrounding a subject – approximately 7.5 times more density than the α6000 – and intelligently adjust them in accordance with the subject’s motion.  This is a particularly powerful feature when used with high-speed 11 fps continuous shooting or the new 8 fps continuous live-view mode, which provides 100% accurate framing for fast moving subjects on the LCD screen or viewfinder.

Of note is the fact that the camera’s 425 phase detection AF points, enhanced tracking and focus accuracy are all available on the α6300 when using A-mount lenses4 with a mount adaptor like the Sony LA-EA3.  This is a first for Sony E-mount interchangeable lens cameras with an APS-C sized sensor, as the only other cameras to feature this capability are the full-frame α7R II and α7 II models.

Other enhancements to the α6300 include silent shooting functionality the ability to use AF in focus magnifier mode, expanded flexible spot AF, Eye AF in AF-C mode and more.

Powerful 24.2 MP Exmor CMOS Sensor and BIONZ X Processor

In order to maximize efficiency and overall camera performance, the α6300 features a new 24.2 MP sensor that is an ideal match for its BIONZ X image processing engine.

The new image sensor employs copper wiring in its structure, which improves light collection efficiency and significantly accelerates readout speed. The BIONZ X processor features an upgraded image processing algorithm designed to maximize the sensor’s overall capabilities. Together, the two key components work together to produce images with low noise and exceptional resolution in sensitivity settings up to ISO512003, in particular in the mid-to-high sensitivity range.

Ultimate 4K Resolution and Other Professional Video Capabilities

In another first for non-full-frame Sony interchangeable lens camera, the new α6300 offers internal 4K movie recording in Super 35mm format. When shooting in 4K, the camera uses full pixel readout without pixel binning to collect 20 megapixels of information – approximately 2.4x5 (6K equivalent) as many pixels as 4K UHD and then oversamples the information to produce high quality  footage with exceptional detail and depth.

The camera utilizes the XAVC S codec6 during video shooting, which records at a high bit rate of 100 Mbps7 during 4K recording and 50 Mbps during standard Full HD shooting, ensuring maximum detail and clarity in both video formats.  Additionally, the camera will focus approximately twice as fast as its predecessor during movie shooting thanks to its new and improved AF system.  AF speed and AF tracking sensitivity are also adjustable for expanded creativity.

Other professional caliber video features include the ability to record Full HD at 120 fps at 100 Mbps7, another first for α interchangeable lens cameras with APS-C sized sensors.  This mode allows footage to be reviewed and eventually edited into 4x or 5x slow motion video files in Full HD8 (24p or 30p) resolution with AF tracking.  The new α6300 also offers S-Log gamma recording9 for wide dynamic range shooting – approximately 14-stop latitude in S-Log3 gamma setting – and supports S-Gamut for a wider color space.  Both options allow for greater creativity for processing video post-production.

Also included on the new camera is a microphone line input that accepts external microphones and also supports XLR input with Sony’s XLR adapter kit, as well as Gamma Display Assist, a new function that allows users to monitor images or check focus when recording S-Log movies. The new model has enhanced Zebra functionality for greater exposure control. Picture profile settings are available, as well as Time Code / User Bit and much more.

Enhanced Operability and Ergonomics

The α6300 camera is equipped with a high contrast, high-resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder with approximately 2.4 million dots that offers exceptional corner-to-corner visibility. There is also a new mode available for the viewfinder that allows display of images at 120 fps, ensuring that action is displayed smoothly with very few afterimages, making subject tracking through the Tru-finder easier than ever.

Aesthetically, the new α6300 camera features an extremely solid feel in hand thanks to its robust, magnesium alloy design. It can be customized to fit nearly any shooting style or preferences, with 9 customizable buttons that one of 64 different functions can be assigned to.  The camera adds a digital level gauge as well as upgraded dust and moisture resistance10, a reinforced lens mount structure and a new shutter release button and mode dial with improved operability and grip.

The new α6300 camera is Wi-Fi® and NFC compatible and fully functional with Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile™ application available for Android and iOS platforms, as well as Sony’s growing range of PlayMemories Camera Apps™, which add a variety of creative capabilities to the camera.  It also supports QR code for easy connection to non-NFC smart phones.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony α6300 interchangeable lens camera will be available in March for about $1,000 for the camera body or for about $1,150 paired with a 16-50mm F3.5 – F5.6 kit lens (model SELP1650). Prices for the Canadian market will be about $1,350 CA for the body and about $1,500 CA for the camera kit.  It will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout each region.

The α6300 is compatible with Sony’s growing lineup of α lenses including the new premium G Master™ lenses also announced today.

A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new α6300 camera and other Sony α products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com , Sony’s new community site built to educate, inspire and showcase all fans and customers of the Sony α brand.

The new content will also be posted directly at the global Sony Photo Gallery and the Sony Camera Channel on YouTube.

Phottix Odin II TTL Flash Trigger for Sony announced (ships in April)

Phottix

Phottiz announced the new Odin II TTL Flash Trigger. The Sony version will be available in April (Now only Canon/Nikon versions are available for preorder). Here is the full press text:

Introducing the Phottix Odin II TTL Flash Trigger

Phottix adds cutting edge functionality and features to its flagship trigger
Eagerly anticipated by thousands of Odin customers, the Odin II is the result of requests from Professional Photographers demanding more from their TTL flash systems.  Phottix is delivering on its promises to provide the very best system available today.
Unrivalled Control and Streamlined User Interface
The Odin II allows more control than ever before.  The controls are logical, simple to use, and allow extremely fast adjustments.
With five groups, A, B, C, D and E, the dedicated quick access buttons allow changes to be made by simply turning the new thumb wheel which is perfectly placed below the improved large LCD screen to adjust the compensation.  The backlit LCD panel shows the settings at a glance.  Now you can control five channels or groups of lights at the touch of a button, in TTL Mode or in a combination of full manual mode and TTL – the choice is yours.  When switching a group off, its display line disappears from the screen, showing just the groups remaining active.

Backward Compatibility
The Odin II system is compatible with the original Odin system, Phottix Mitros+ Speedlights, the award-winning Indra360 and Indra500 TTL Studio lights, Strato and Strato II receivers, and Atlas II in receiver mode.  Using channels 1 to 4 you can work with the kit you already own with the Phottix Odin II.

More Channels and Digital ID
To take advantage of the Phottix Odin II, a total of 32 channels can be used, channels 5 to 32 use the full functionality of the Odin II receiver, including a user-set digital ID for the ultimate in secure triggering.  Users can remotely control Speedlight zoom settings, providing the perfect coverage from a wide angle to a spot light.  When shooting with the Phottix Indra360/500 series, the Odin II transmitter also offers remote modelling light control and full light ratio controls.

High Speed Sync and Overdrive Sync
High Speed Sync with TTL flashes and Overdrive Sync with manual enable flash photography at up to 1/8000 second for creative photographers.  The newly added AF assist light makes autofocus a breeze in dimly lit locations.  An additional ten custom functions allow users to customise the Odin II, including switching on/off the audible beep, screen brightness, an AF Illuminator function and the ODS system control functionality, as well as a full factory reset should you need it.

Firmware Updates
Firmware upgrades for the Phottix Mitros+ and Phottix Indra360/500 will soon be available to take advantage of the new features of the Odin II – these will be announced shortly via the Phottix Journal and on the Phottix.com website.

Major Features 

  • 5 groups A, B, C, D and E
  • 32 channels with user-set Digital ID on channels 5 to 32
  • Group buttons and thumbwheel control for fast operation
  • TTL Power Control +/- 3EV
  • Manual Power Control 1/1 to 1/128th
  • High Speed Sync – up to 1/8000s on compatible cameras
  • Second Curtain Sync (Nikon and Sony only)
  • AF Assist Light
  • Flash zoom control
  • Modelling Light Control with Indra500/360
  • 2.4 GHz, Range up to 100 metres
  • Compatible with Indra500/360 TTL, Mitros+, Odin, Strato, Strato II and Atlas II
  • Always up to date via the latest Firmware.

Odin II for Nikon and Canon will be available from all Platinum Dealers week commencing 15th of February 2016, the Sony Odin II is expected to arrive in late April.