News

Canon Europe have announced the launch of two new affordable full frame RF lenses, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM and RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM. The RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM is a lightweight, bright f/1.8 prime lens featuring a 24mm focal length, and the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM is an ultra-wide angle zoom lens covering a range of focal lengths from 15-30mm. Continuing the expansion of the RF series of lenses, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM and RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM feature the same advanced optical technology and superior handling for sharp, high-quality imagery, even when shooting on the go. Versatile lenses, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM and RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM are suited to a variety of genres of photography and vlogging, enabling users to unleash their creativity and instinctively capture each shot.

RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM

The RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM is a compact and versatile wide-angle 24mm prime lens, made possible by the intelligent design of Canon’s RF mount. A fast, bright, image stabilised lens, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM excels in low light scenarios with a f/1.8 maximum aperture and circular, 9-blade design. This also creates a beautifully soft background, that makes the subject stand out sharply in the image. When used with an APS-C sensor camera, this lens also gives an effective focal length similar to 35mm.

Weighing just 270g and featuring a gear type STM motor which enables fast and quiet focusing in a small form factor, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM is perfect for travel and landscape photographers wanting to shoot on the go. With a minimum focusing distance of 14cm (0.5x magnification), this lens offers huge creative potential, enabling photographers and vloggers to focus extremely close to their subject, while still being able to capture the wider environment around it.

The RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM offers superb optical performance and enhanced operation. Equipped with a customisable Lens Control Ring, photographers can easily fine tune ISO, aperture and switch between AF methods. With a dedicated focus ring, this model also gives greater control during manual focusing. When used with compatible cameras, the lens information is displayed to offer even greater focusing assistance with the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM. With 11 elements in 9 groups, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM employs super spectra coating to prevent ghosting and flare, for high-quality images every time. Offering super smooth and steady stills and videos, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM employs a 5-stop Optical Image Stabilizer which increases to 6.5-stops of IS when used alongside an EOS R series body featuring In Body Image Stabilizer.

Ultra-wide RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM

Providing the flexibility of a range of popular focal lengths, the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM boasts an incredible 15 – 30mm focal range which is perfect for capturing travel, landscapes or vlogs. This ultra-wide-angle lens means photographers and vloggers can get more into each shot, to capture the full context and scale of subjects such as buildings and stunning natural landscapes. The RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM has a 5.5-stop Optical Image Stabilizer which allows longer shutter speeds for hand-held shooting and slick video. When used with an EOS R System body featuring In Body Image Stabilizer, users can obtain up to an incredible 7 stops for steady, shake free stills and video. Perfect for shooting on the go, the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM weighs just 390g and offers a compact, robust design. Featuring a leadscrew-type STM focusing motor, the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM can quickly focus on fast moving subjects. This exceptionally quiet STM motor is also well suited for capturing video, giving vloggers and content creators the tools to film like a pro.

A versatile lens, the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM also has fantastic macro capabilities. Photographers can experiment with the manual focus to discover the world up close and in incredible detail, thanks to the 0.52x magnification of this lensi. The new optical design of the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM features aspherical and precision moulded elements and lens coatings, to capture every detail. A combined Focus and Lens Control Ring allows users to manipulate settings without ever taking their eye off the scene or subject.

Advanced technology for more creative freedom

Building on the RF series’ sophisticated design, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM and RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM feature advanced lens technology in a lightweight and easily portable size, to capture exceptionally sharp images anywhere. With its wide-angle and fast aperture, that lets photographers shoot high quality stills and video, even in low light, the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM is the perfect choice for those wanting to explore the world around them through the quality of a fixed focal length lens. For those wanting more creative freedom, the ultra-wide zoom range and close focusing capabilities of the RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM mean users can turn their lens to everything from vast landscapes to tiny details. Compatible with the EOS R, EOS RP and EOS R6, these lenses will also be a great addition to Canon’s new APS-C models, the EOS R7 and EOS R10, thanks to the wide-angle focal lengths.

To find out more about the RF 24mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM and RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM please go to:
https://www.canon.co.uk/lenses/rf-24mm-f1-8-macro-is-stm/
https://www.canon.co.uk/lenses/rf-15-30mm-f4-5-6-3-is-stm/

Canon has announced RF100–400mm F5.6–8 IS USM priced at £699.99, providing users with a versatile and popular zoom range that brings subjects closer with ease. It’s an affordable and easily hand-holdable entry into the world of super-telephoto, full-frame photography and video. Offering superb performance and sharpness, the 100–400mm focal length provides a versatile range for all types of telephoto opportunities — be it portraits and documenting events, to sports, birding and wildlife. And, for the first time in a non-L-series lens, the RF100–400mm will accept optional Canon RF 1.4x and 2x tele extenders, offering even more telephoto potential in a lightweight package. Yes, the Canon RF100–400mm is an excellent gateway into the world of wildlife, nature, and sports photography. However, this lens and its super-telephoto abilities can also be leveraged for the video content creator or vlogger when compiling b-roll type footage or for subjects who are at a distance.

Features
RF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
Aperture Range: f/5.6 to f/45
One UD Element, One Aspherical Element
Super Spectra Coating
Nano USM AF Motor
Maximum Magnification: 0.41x at 400mm
Optical Image Stabilizer
Customizable Control Ring
Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm

Canon Europe announces the EOS R5 C, a powerful, hybrid cinema camera which combines the professional filmmaking features of the Cinema EOS range with the EOS R System’s photo capabilities. Underpinned by a high-resolution, full frame CMOS sensor, DIGIC X processor and the RF Mount, these three elements enable high fidelity 8K capture, and 45 megapixel still photo capture at burst speeds up to 20 frames per second, all in a single body. Building on the ground-breaking impact the EOS 5D Mark II had on the filmmaking industry, the EOS R5 C’s compact, yet versatile body supports the needs of a new generation of content creators and solo shooters. Further enhancing the Cinema EOS line-up, Canon is also announcing a significant upgrade to the renowned EOS C70 via a firmware update. This will improve on the already outstanding Cinema EOS capabilities with the addition of 12-bit Cinema RAW Light recording, amongst other features.

EOS R5 C key features:

Full Frame Sensor with 8K/30p 12-bit RAW recording or 8K/60p when using an external power source
45 megapixel images up to 20 fps
Precise Eye AF via Dual Pixel CMOS AF and intelligent face/ head tracking via EOS iTR AF X
Extensive professional recording formats including three new flavours of Cinema RAW Light
Active cooling for long-form recording
Timecode Terminal
RF Mount with Advanced Combination IS
Advanced connectivity and Multi-Function Accessory Shoe

Offering a wide angle and aperture, the RF 16mm F2.8 STM is a versatile lens that is well suited to vlogging as well as a number of genres of photography, such as group photos, environmental portraits and architecture. The first ultra-wide angle prime lens in the EOS R System, the RF 16mm F2.8 STM offers a 16mm focal length which produces an extra-wide field of view and exaggerated sense of depth.

With a wide aperture of f/2.8 this lens is great when shooting in low light such as astrophotography and for high shutter speed photography. For vloggers, these features enable them to capture higher quality footage in low light and create a shallow depth of field even at wide angles, so that subjects pop against a softened background. As a lightweight prime lens, it’s a fantastic companion for vlogging on the go. When looking for a narrower angle when shooting video, users can pair the RF 16mm F2.8 STM with EOS R cameras to shoot in APS-C crop mode to effectively turn the lens into a 25.6mm lens. Employing Canon’s STM focusing motor, the RF 16mm F2.8 STM allows for smooth, near silent focusing during video recording. Offering a minimum focusing distance of 0.13m, photographers and content creators alike can capture sharp images even when shooting from close range.

RF 16MM F2.8 STM features:
Ultra wide-angle prime lens with 16mm focal length
Wide, bright F2.8 aperture
Smooth quiet STM focusing motor
Weighs only 165g
0.13m minimum focusing distance 0.13m
Maximum magnification of 0.26x

In the box:
RF 16mm F2.8 STM
EF-43 Lens Cap
Lens Dust Cap RF

Canon have announced the EOS R3 featuring a new back illuminated stacked CMOS sensor, DIGIC X imaging processor, 30fps burst shooting with AF/AE tracking, an integrated grip design with weather-proofing, Canon’s most advanced autofocusing system ever, an innovative new autofocus Eye Control Function, and compatibility with Canon’s Mobile File Transfer smartphone app.

With the news of three new innovative RF lens and a new file sharing app, Canon Inc. announces the development of EOS R3 – its latest high-speed and ultra-responsive professional mirrorless camera. With its ground-breaking design, the camera will empower professional sports and news photographers to meet challenging demands – to outpace and outperform. Boasting qualities seen in Canon’s DSLR and mirrorless bodies, the EOS R3 truly is a hybrid, next generation camera for the sports and news photographers of today and tomorrow.

The EOS R3 features a new Canon-developed BSI stacked CMOS sensor, a powerful DIGIC X imaging processor, shooting capabilities of 30fps with AF/AE tracking, eye, head and body detection and a pioneering new autofocus Eye Control Function. It is the ideal camera for action photographers looking for quality images, both still and moving, of objects travelling at intense speeds.

Built on the revolutionary EOS R System, with its unparalleled RF Mount and paired with one of Canon’s innovative RF lenses, the camera offers capabilities unseen in any other camera/lens duo. With lenses like the today launched RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM and RF 600mm F4L IS USM, professionals can achieve unrivalled optical excellence and performance.

High quality, at high speed
The EOS R3 is the first EOS series camera to feature an entirely new 35mm back illuminated stacked CMOS sensor – developed by Canon. Combined with the power of its DIGIC X imaging processor, professionals using EOS R3 will achieve next-level, high-speed photography and filmmaking. Using the camera, they can enjoy 30fps with AF/AE tracking with minimal image distortion when using the electronic shutter – perfect for the likes of professional sports photographers challenged with capturing action within a fraction of a second.

Impressive tracking of fast-moving action
Professionals can push creative boundaries with pin-sharp accurate tracking and focus on fast-moving action. The EOS R3’s next generation Dual Pixel CMOS AF can track subjects’ eyes, heads and bodies travelling at speed – excellent for capturing even the finest of details in a split second. What’s more, Canon reveals it will add a new subject (yet to be disclosed) to the camera’s AF tracking.

AF control – with your eye!
The EOS R3 will feature new and improved technology first seen in Canon’s EOS 5. It is the first EOS digital camera to provide a new generation of photographers with ground-breaking Eye Control Function, which enables users to simply select and move the AF point using their eye via the viewfinder. This instinctive feature offers professionals natural and speedy control over AF. Reducing the time to focus, which is usually done with a multi-controller/button, this feature is again perfect for photographers looking to capture the most important subject for their frame at speed – whether that’s during a news conference or photographing a team sport.

Professional build
Inspired by the EOS-1D series, the EOS R3 body allows for ultra-intuitive control in the most demanding professional situations. Professionals can expect the same durability and dust and water resistance as provided in Canon’s legendary EOS-1 series bodies. The camera also has the integrated grip that EOS-1D series users love and trust. With EOS R3, professionals have the confidence to keep on shooting – whatever the conditions – whether they are pitch side or poolside, inside or outside, in snow or sunshine.

Fast connection – introducing Canon’s new Mobile File Transfer
The EOS R3 will be fully compatible with Canon’s Mobile File Transfer smartphone app. This provides a new way to transfer images and speed up workflow whilst on the move, using mobile network services and without the need for wired LAN equipment.

Canon is launching Version 1.2 of its Mobile File Transfer for iOS via the Apple App Store in June, which is compatible with Canon’s EOS-1D X Mark III, EOS R5 and EOS R6. Android support will be added in the future.

Key Features
Initial EOS R3 key features announced (14th April 2021) are:

New Canon-developed stacked BSI CMOS sensor
30fps with AF/AE tracking
Eye Control Function
Subject eye and head detection
Dual Pixel CMOS AF
1D series weather resistance

Canon Europe (www.Canon-Europe.com) has announced four new RF lenses and two RF extenders. The new lenses bring telephoto capabilities to the innovative RF line-up as well as additional portrait and macro photography creative possibilities for professionals and enthusiasts.

Highlighting Canon’s ongoing commitment to the EOS R System and the RF Mount, today’s additions, alike the rest of the RF line-up, take advantage of the System – enabling photographers to experience new levels of quality, performance and creativity. “Canon’s innovative solutions are future facing and designed to give users of the equipment greater flexibility.” declares Amine Djouahra, Sales and Marketing Director at Canon Central and North Africa.

Joining the RF line-up is:

The RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM – a compact and versatile L-series telephoto zoom lens with a large focal length range, incredible image quality, 5-stop IS, fast Dual Nano USMs, weather sealling and a Lens Control Ring for enhanced operation.

The RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM – the world’s lightest autofocus lenses including a focal length of 600mm [1] and 800mm [2] respectively. With super-telephoto focal lengths, full auto focus [3] and image stabilisation capabilities, enthusiasts can take incredibly sharp and beautiful imagery from afar. Paired with the new RF extenders – the EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2x – the lenses can reach an incredible 1200mm (RF 600mm F11 IS STM) and an extreme 1600mm (RF 800mm F11 IS STM) optical focal length. This provides enthusiasts even greater flexibility and creative possibilities whilst retaining AF. Such features makes them an ideal choice for a range of image capture – from wildlife to aviation and even moon photography.

The RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM – a must have lens for enthusiasts entering the world of the EOS R System and looking to capture stunning portraits and fine detail up-close. Celebrating the benefits of the System, this wide-aperture portrait lens offers 5-stop Image Stabilization (IS) (or 8-stops when using EOS R5/EOS R6) and macro capabilities – two unique and stand-out features not seen in competitor lenses of this type on the market.

The EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2x – two high-performance and durable extenders with redesigned optics, created to expand the capabilities of the today launched RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM, RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM. Both extenders allow professionals to push focal length capabilities of compatible lenses, while maintaining the image quality and speed benefits of the RF Mount.

RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM – a compact and versatile telephoto zoom

Leading the range of L-series RF telephoto zoom lenses, the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM is ideal for enthusiasts and professionals capturing sport, wildlife and aviation, who require a reliable, durable and compact lens. For those that want to go beyond a 100-500mm focal length range, the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM is compatible with the new EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2x – giving photographers even more scope and creative freedom.

With one Super UD lens and six UD lenses, the lens effectively suppresses chromatic aberration and ghosting/flare across the entire zoom range for high-resolution, high-contrast image quality from maximum aperture. In addition to this, featuring 5-stop IS, or 6-stops when used with EOS R5 and EOS R6 [4], the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM achieves improved and shake free images – for shooting handheld at long focal lengths or using slower shutter speeds.

Featuring Dual Nano USM AF motor technology, the telephoto zoom lens boasts accurate and high-speed autofocus quietly – for capturing wildlife and uninterrupted filming. What’s more, Canon’s innovative floating focusing system allows for improved close focusing down to 0.9m.

As standard with the RF lenses, the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM features a programmable Lens Control Ring on the barrel, allowing photographers to change settings without taking their eye off the viewfinder. The adjustable torque zoom ring enables the zoom action to be made tighter or looser to suit the photogrpaher’s needs – perfect for those on the move. Being a L-series lens, it also features Canon’s renowned weather sealing enabling the lens to be used in all conditions.

RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM – impressively lightweight super-telephoto lenses

A great affordable and lightweight choice for enthusiast photographers, the RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM are new concept lenses offering super-telephoto focal lengths – allowing photographers to capture far away subjects in stunning detail. With a minimum focusing distance of 4.5m (RF 600mm F11 IS STM) and 6m (RF 800mm F11 IS STM) enthusiasts can get close to subjects while maintaining great focus. The lenses capability to capture the action from afar with AF and IS capabilities is extended when used with the EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2x. With such extenders, a number of impressive focal lengths can be achieved [5] – the longest being 1600m when the RF 800mm F11 IS STM is used with the EXTENDER RF 2x.

Both lenses are equipped with an optical Image Stabilizer [6] and also support Dual Pixel CMOS AF when paired with a Canon EOS R System mirrorless camera. This combination of features allows these super-telephoto lenses to deliver pin-sharp images – even when shooting without a tripod or monopod – as motion blur caused by camera shake is drastically reduced.

Lightweight [7] and compact, the lenses are shining examples of the possibilities of Canon’s RF Mount. Using Diffractive Optics, combined with the RF Mount and a fixed f/11 aperture, both lenses highlight Canon’s excellence in optical technology innovation. Having been completely re-thought and redesigned, both lenses are significantly smaller and lighter compared to existing EF super telephoto lenses. Equipped with a retractable barrel structure, the lenses are extended in use and easily retracted to be stored neatly [8] – ideal for travelling photographers who have minimal kitbag space.

Boasting STM technology, both lenses offer extremely quiet and perfectly smooth focusing – excellent for video recording, as the lens operation noise is kept at a minimum. Adding to its ease of use, the Lens Control Ring on both the RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM gives enthusiasts direct and speedy control over Tv/exposure compensation/ISO/AF operation [10] settings. The lens’ fixed aperture also provides a perfectly circular bokeh and their large focal length enables photographers to blur the background suffiently when photographing subjects in the distance – an excellent charcteristic for animal portraits as subjects stand out more.

RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM – picture perfect portraits

For enthusiast portraiture photographers, with its 85mm focal length, the lightweight [9] RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM is ideal for capturing stunning shots with an attractive perspective and soft background. Coupling an f/2 aperture with full frame provides shallow depth of field for excellent results – even in low-light conditions.

The RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM offers 5-stop IS (or 8-stops when using EOS R5/EOS R6) and enables enthusiasts to capture subjects at an impressive 50% life-size with its 1:2 macro shooting capability. Both features, not found in other competitor models, offer enthusiasts incredible stills and video quality and supreme versatility. Thanks to STM Autofocus, the RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM also achieves quick and smooth focus both in stills and video – making it the ideal choice for enthusiasts entering the world of mirrorless and hoping to capture quality video as well as take stunning images.

EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2x – uncompromised images that go further

The EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2x are for press, nature and sport photographers looking to capture subjects at great distance. Reliable and durable, these extenders match the performance of Canon’s RF lenses and, when used with compatible lenses, deliver images of uncompromised quality.

Both extenders use the advanced high-refraction, low-dispersion glass to control curvature of field and chromatic aberration of magnification for the highest possible image quality. They also feature an optimised lens coating and a three-layer combined lens to reduce ghosting. Further enabling superior optical excellence, the extenders boast a heat shield coating to prevent performance deterioration in high temperatures and offer weather sealing when used with a compatible L-series RF lens. In addition to this, when used with the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, zoom range is limited to 300 to 500mm when the extender is connected to prevent the lens’s rear elements from hitting those of the extender.

RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM Key Features:

100-500mm zoom range

One Super UD lens and six UD lenses

5-stops IS (CIPA standard)

Dual Nano USM

Assignable Len Control Ring

L-series weather sealing

Compatible with EXTENDER RF 1.4x / EXTENDER RF 2x (usable focal lengths, from 300 to 500mm)

RF 600mm F11 IS STM and RF 800mm F11 IS STM Key Features:

600mm (RF 600mm F11 IS STM) and 800mm (RF 800mm F11 IS STM) focal length

Image Stabilization (IS) up to (RF 600mm F11 IS STM: 5-stops, RF 800mm F11 IS STM: 4-stops)

STM Autofocus Technology

Lightweight (RF 600mm F11 IS STM: approx. 930g and RF 800mm F11 IS STM: approx. 1,260g)

Compact – equipped with barrel structure that extends in use and retracts when stored

Lens Control Ring – giving direct control over Tv/Exposure compensation/ISO settings

F11 aperture lens with IS with full AF when paired with a Canon EOS R camera

RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM Key Features:

85mm focal length

f/2 maximum aperture

Lightweight at 500g

STM Autofocus technology

Up to 5-stops IS (CIPA standard)

1:2 macro capabilities

EXTENDER RF 1.4x and EXTENDER RF 2.0x Key Features:

Advanced high-refraction low-dispersion glass

Lens coatings and a three-layer combined lens to reduce ghosting

Heat shield coating

Vibrational shock resistance, dust and water resistance

The Ring Indoor Cam is Ring’s most inexpensive camera so far, £49 in the UK.

The Ring Indoor Cam has all the features people have come to expect from Ring: simple DIY installation, two-way talk, motion-activated alerts, Live View, and easy access through the Ring app. The Indoor Cam can be placed just about anywhere around the house – on a flat surface or mounted to a wall.

Jamie Siminoff, Founder and Chief Inventor of Ring, said: “We’re excited to bring customers our most affordable camera yet and provide even more security options with Ring Indoor Cam and the all new Ring Stick Up Cam. As a team of inventors, we are constantly pushing ourselves to identify innovative, cost effective and easy-to-use security products that make our neighbourhoods safer. With our growing line-up of both indoor and outdoor cams, varying in size and functionality, our customers have choices when determining how best to secure their homes.”

Video: https://youtu.be/3T19d0AUE6Y

Canon has introduced, the RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM standard zoom lens.

“Since the introduction of the EOS R system in late 2018, our goal has always been to develop full-frame mirrorless cameras and lenses to match every skill level of photographers, from entry-level to advanced professionals,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Having a firm grasp on the needs of our customers looking for an impressive compact, lightweight lens at an affordable price point, the RF 24-105mm lens is the quintessential lens to have in any creator’s camera bag.”

Cementing Canon’s vision for the EOS R line to become as widely popular as its celebrated lineup of EOS DSLR line, the new RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM lens pairs quality output with an affordable price. The lens is compact enough to carry every day, at 3.5in (88.8mm) in length and weighing in at 13.9oz (395g) and has a long zoom range starting 24mm wide within compact and lightweight body. The new lens also possesses Optical Image Stabilization Technology, which helps steady camera shake up to five stops¹, reducing image blur. The lens also includes Movie Servo AF using STM (stepping-motor) technology that contributes to both fast auto focus for still images as well as smooth, quiet auto focus for video in conjunction with camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF on compatible Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Features include:
Control Ring for Direct Setting Changes
12-pin Communication System
Maximum Magnification of 0.4x at 105mm
Minimum focus distance of .13m (0.43ft) using Center Focus Macro

Review: https://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_rf_24_105mm_f4_7_1_is_stm_review

Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation has announced the PENTAX K-1 Mark II 35mm full-frame digital SLR (DSLR) camera. Developed as the successor to the PENTAX K-1 full-frame DSLR camera launched in April 2016, the compact, rugged and weather-resistant PENTAX K-1 Mark II now becomes the flagship camera in the acclaimed PENTAX K-series lineup. The camera incorporates new technologies that allow it to deliver outstanding image quality and improved operability in a broader range of shooting conditions.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II uses the same full-frame Anti-aliasing (AA)-filterless CMOS sensor with 36.4 effective megapixels as its predecessor model. However, Ricoh has added a new accelerator unit to the PENTAX K-1 Mark II that—along with the camera’s PRIME IV image processor—enables it to produce high-resolution images with minimal noise in even in the most challenging low-light conditions, up to ISO 819200. This makes the new camera ideal for low-light photography where higher shutter speeds are required.

The camera also incorporates Pixel Shift Resolution System II. This new, PENTAX-developed technology uses the same in-camera shake-reduction (SR) mechanism and sensor-shift capabilities as the original Pixel Shift Resolution System found in the PENTAX K-1, which captures four images of the same scene, and then synthesizes them into a single, super-high-resolution composite image. With the Pixel Shift Resolution System II, the camera also obtains RGB color data, resulting in images with significantly finer details and truer colors than those produced by typical full-frame sensors.

A new feature in the Pixel Shift Resolution System II is Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode. This mode allows photographers to produce crisp, ultra-high pixel shift resolution images without the need of a tripod, extending the camera’s use to a wider variety of subjects and scenes.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II also comes equipped with many unique features and functions designed to facilitate creativity and ensure operational comfort that have become the hallmark of PENTAX cameras. These include a sturdy magnesium-alloy body with dustproof, weather-resistant construction; an optical viewfinder with a nearly 100-percent field of view for real-time subject confirmation; Astro Tracer, which simplifies the tracing and photographing of celestial bodies by coupling GPS data with the camera’s sophisticated SRII mechanism; and a flexible tilt-type LCD monitor to accommodate various shooting angles.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II camera body will be available in April 2018 for a suggested list price of $1,999.95. The camera body plus HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR zoom lens will also be available for a suggested list price of $2,399.95. Both can be purchased at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com as well as at Ricoh Imaging-authorized retail outlets throughout North America.

Main Features

1. Newly incorporated accelerator unit delivers high-quality images and excellent super-high-sensitivity imaging performance

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II features a 35mm-format full-frame CMOS image sensor with an AA (anti-aliasing) filter–free design to produce high-resolution images with approximately 36.4 effective megapixels. It also features a new accelerator unit, which optimizes the image data obtained by the full-frame image sensor before delivering it to the high-performance PRIME IV imaging engine. As a result, the camera is capable of producing high-quality images with minimal noise, while retaining excellent resolution at all sensitivity levels, from normal to super-high sensitivities. PENTAX has also updated all image-processing parameters to ensure colors are true to life, with special emphasis on deep blues and lively greens. PENTAX has also dramatically improved the camera’s noise-reduction performance at a high-sensitivity range — up to ISO 819200 — to expand creative possibilities in super low-light shooting.

2. Pixel Shift Resolution System II produces super-resolution images and enables handheld shooting

Building upon the original PENTAX-developed Pixel Shift Resolution System — the super-resolution technology that uses the camera’s in-body shake-reduction mechanism to capture four images of the same scene by shifting the image sensor by a single pixel for each image, and then synthesizes them into a single composite image — is the Pixel Shift Resolution System II,* making its debut in the PENTAX K-1 II. This new system obtains RGB color data for each pixel, resulting in super-high-resolution images with finer details and more realistic colors than those produced by cameras with ordinary full-frame sensors. The Motion Correction functions provides ON/OFF switching, which detects moving elements of the continuously captured images to minimize the effect of subject movement during the image synthesizing process.***The new Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode,** which can be used during handheld shooting, works together with the camera’s shake-reduction mechanism, by synthesizing the composite images while detecting the slight fluctuations of the subject’s position during the capture process.

This technology comes from the reverse thinking of pixel shift technology to utilize the minute camera shake itself to product the composite images. Therefore, by detecting the camera shake in three dimensions, the continuously captured four images are analyzed based on the detected camera shake information and combined into a single file to produce one super high resolution image.

* When using this system, the user is advised to stabilize the camera firmly on a tripod. Even if a moving subject is captured in the camera’s image field, the image may not be reproduced clearly, partially or in total.

** The captured images may not be properly synthesized with certain subjects or under certain conditions. By capturing images in the RAW or RAW+ format, the user can process the images unsuitable for the synthesizing process as normal RAW-format images within the camera body.

The images may not be properly synthesized in a composite image

*** The movement may not be sufficiently corrected when the object is moving in a certain direction and/or pattern. This function does not guarantee that the movement is properly corrected with all subjects.

3. High-performance five-axis, five-step SR II system

(1) In-body SR mechanism delivers optimal shake-reduction performance with all compatible lenses

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II comes equipped with the PENTAX-developed SR II (Shake Reduction II) five-axis mechanism, which provides accurate control of the large full-frame image sensor with all compatible PENTAX interchangeable lenses.* In addition to camera shake caused by pitch and yaw, this advanced system also compensates for camera shake caused by horizontal and vertical shift (often generated in macro photography) and camera shake caused by roll, which is difficult for lens-installed shake-reduction mechanisms to handle. It has a compensation range up to five steps (measured in conformity with CIPA standards, using the HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5, 6ED DC WR at a 105mm focal length). When taking a panning shot, this system automatically detects the direction of the camera’s movement, and efficiently controls the SR unit to produce the best image possible without requiring any mode switching operation.

(2) Innovative AA filter simulator to minimize moiré and inaccurate color rendition

By applying microscopic vibrations to the image sensor unit at the sub-pixel level during image exposure, the camera’s anti-aliasing (AA) filter simulator** provides the same level of moiré reduction as an optical AA filter. Unlike an optical filter, which always creates the identical result, this innovative simulator not only lets the user switch the AA filter effect on and off, but also adjust the level of the effect. This means that the ideal effect can be set for a particular scene or subject based on given photographic conditions.

(3) Additional shooting functions enabled by the SR II system

Since the camera’s SR unit has a flexible design that tilts the image sensor unit in all directions, additional shooting functions are enabled, including auto level compensation, image-composition fine-adjustment, and Astro Tracer, a feature that works along with the built-in GPS, to produce super-sharp images of the night sky.

* Lenses compatible with this mechanism: K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2-, KAF3- and K AF4-mount lenses; screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.

** This function works most effectively with a shutter speed of 1/1000 second or slower. This function may not be combined with some shooting modes, including the Pixel Shift Resolution system.

4. Flexible, tilting LCD monitor facilitates shooting in the dark

On its back panel, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II features a flexible, tilting LCD monitor, which can be adjusted to the desired angle horizontally, vertically or diagonally with a single adjustment, without deviating from the lens’s optical axis. The user can not only tilt it approximately 35 degrees horizontally and approximately 44 degrees vertically, but also pull it out from its base to view the on-screen image from above for waist-level photography. This large, 3.2-inch LCD monitor has approximately 1,037,000 dots and a 3:2 aspect ratio, and provides a protective tempered-glass front panel for added durability. In addition to its wide-view design, it also features a unique air-gapless construction, in which the air space between LCD layers is eliminated to effectively reduce the reflection and dispersion of light for improved visibility during outdoor shooting. Its outdoor monitor function, which allows instant adjustment of the monitor’s brightness to the desired level, has also been improved to provide greater visibility in dark locations. Its red-lit monitor display function facilitates monitor viewing when the photographer’s eyes have become accustomed to a dark location during nighttime photography.

5. SAFOX 12 with 33 sensor points and full-frame-proportioned AF frame

Using a SAFOX 12 AF sensor module with 33 AF sensors (25 cross-type sensors positioned in the middle), the PENTAX K-1 Mark II optimizes the autofocus process, and assures high-speed autofocus operation in the AF.S (AF Single) mode. The center sensor and two sensors located just above and below it are designed to detect the light flux of an F2.8 lens, making it easy to obtain pinpoint focus on a subject when using a large-aperture lens. Its AF Tracking algorithm has also been revised to improve tracking accuracy of fast-moving subjects in the AF.C (AF Continuous) mode.

6. PENTAX Real-Time Scene-Analysis System, developed using artificial intelligence technology

By combining an approximately 86,000-pixel RGB metering sensor with the high-performance PRIME IV imaging engine, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II’s advanced PENTAX Real-Time Scene Analysis System performs real-time analysis of the brightness distribution over the image field and the subject’s colors and movement. Based on this data, it then measures the subject’s lighting conditions with great accuracy and optimizes the exposure. By adopting a breakthrough artificial intelligence technology, deep learning, to its algorithm,* it assesses each individual scene more accurately, and optimizes the exposure settings for a given scene or composition.

* Effective when the AUTO exposure mode is set to Scene Analyze Auto and the Custom Image mode is set to Auto Select.

7. Easy-to-focus optical viewfinder with nearly 100-percent field of view

Optimized for a 35mm full-frame digital SLR design, the camera’s optical viewfinder provides a nearly 100-percent field of view and an approximately 0.7-times magnification. Using a combination of a condenser lens and aspherical lens, it provides a wide field of view and a clear, undistorted image of the subject. It comes with a Natural Bright Matte III focusing screen, acclaimed for ease of focusing during manual-focus operation, and true-to-life rendition of defocused areas in the viewfinder image. In addition, its transparent viewfinder display makes it possible to superimpose a wide range of photographic data over the viewfinder image.

8. High-speed continuous shooting

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II allows continuous recording of as many as 17 images in the RAW format (or a maximum of 70 images in the JPEG Best format) in a single sequence, at a top speed of approximately 4.4 images per second. This is made possible by the combination of advanced mechanisms including a damper mechanism that effectively minimizes mirror shock; high-speed, high-precision control of the shutter and mirror units; and a high-speed data transmission system incorporated in the PRIME IV imaging engine. In the APS-C Crop mode, the drive speed can be boosted to as high as approximately 6.4 images per second, and as many as 50 images in a single sequence in the RAW format (or 100 images in the JPEG Best format) to assure quick response to fast-moving subjects.

9. Supportive shooting functions to improve picture-taking efficiency and operational comfort

?Operation-assist light function, which sets LED lights at four different spots around the camera body — above the lens mount, behind the LCD monitor, at the memory card slot, and at the cable switch terminal — to facilitate lens and memory card changes, attachment and removal of the cable switch, and control button operation at night and in poorly lit settings.

?Key lock function, which prevents erroneous operation of the four-way controller and other exposure-related control buttons.

?Smart Function, which allows the user to swiftly choose and set desired functions using just the function dial and the set dial on the camera’s upper panel, without referring to the menu screen on the LCD monitor.

?Control panel customize function, which allows the user to change a listing and/or position of the on-screen menu.

10. Compact, rugged body with dustproof, weather-resistant construction

The camera’s bottom panel and front and back frames are all made of sturdy yet lightweight magnesium alloy. Although the camera features a dependable, durable shutter unit that can withstand 300,000 shutter releases (measured under actual shooting conditions) for professional use, its body has been downsized to the minimum possible, thanks to the incorporation of a unique floating mirror structure. With the inclusion of 87 sealing parts in the body, the camera also boasts a dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant construction, assuring solid operation at temperatures as low as -10°C. All these features make the PENTAX K-1 Mark II a dependable, all-purpose performer, even under demanding shooting conditions.

11. Full HD movie recording with an array of creative tools

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II captures Full HD movie clips (1920 x 1080 pixels; 60i/30p frame rate) in the H.264 recording format, and comes equipped with a stereo mic terminal for external microphone connection, and a headphone terminal. The user can also adjust the audio recording level manually, monitor sound pressure levels during microphone recording, and cut down wind noise using a new wind-noise reduction mode. In addition to a host of distinctive visual effects for movie recording,* the camera also provides the interval movie mode, which captures a series of 4K-resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) movie clips at a fixed interval.

* When special image processing is required, the frame rate may vary depending on the selected special-effect mode.

12. Built-in GPS module

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II provides a variety of advanced GPS functions, including the recording of location, latitude, longitude, altitude and UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) and direction at the time of shooting. The user can easily access images containing GPS data using a computer, to browse them, check on shooting locations and position data on the screen, or save them.

The camera also provides a set of other unique tools, including: Electronic Compass, which displays the camera’s direction on its LCD monitor; GPS log, which keeps track of the photographer’s movement; and Astro Tracer, which simplifies the tracing and photographing of celestial bodies by coupling GPS data with the camera’s SR mechanism.

13. Other features

?High-grade DRII (Dust Removal II) mechanism for effective elimination of dust on the image sensor using ultrasonic vibration

?Crop mode with a choice of image area from AUTO, FF (Full Frame), APS-C and 1:1

?Wireless LAN connection to support the operation with smartphones and table computers, the transfer of captured images, and remote shooting operations

?HDR (High Dynamic Range) shooting mode with RAW-format data filing, usable in handheld shooting

?The PENTAX-invented hyper operating system for quick, accurate response to the photographer’s creative intentions

?Dual SD card slots for memory card flexibility (compatible with SDXC UHS-1 speed class in SDR104 bus speed mode)

?Compensation of various parameters: lens distortion, lateral chromatic aberration, diffraction, and brightness level at image-field edges. Fringe effect compensation is also available in RAW-format processing.

?Bulb Timer function to improve operability in bulb shooting

?Compatibility with PENTAX Image Transmitter 2 tethering software (software update required from RICOH IMAGING official website)

?Digital Camera Utility 5 software (latest version) included

More information: https://www.ricoh-imaging.co.uk/en/digital-slr/description/group/6/PENTAX-K-1-mark-II.html

RICOH have announced the HD PENTAX-DA 18-50mm F4-5.6 DC WR RE, designed for use with PENTAX K-mount lens-interchangeable digital cameras. This standard zoom lens features a newly developed retractable mechanism for easy storage and outstanding portability, as well as a weather-resistant construction for dependable operation under all conditions.

This standard zoom lens has been developed as a compact, easy-to-use everyday lens that meets user demand for a downsized, high-resolution digital SLR imaging system. Thanks to its retractable mechanism — employed for the first time in the PENTAX K-mount lens system — it provides the world’s shortest length in the stored position: just 41mm.* Despite its ultra-compact design which ensures outstanding portability, it also features the PENTAX-original HD Coating, super-low dispersion glass elements and aspherical elements to effectively compensate various aberrations for sharp, high-contrast, well-balanced images. Its built-in DC motor assures smooth, quiet autofocus operation, while its weather-resistant body makes it extremely dependable and durable in demanding outdoor conditions.

Features:
1. The world’s shortest standard zoom lens: This standard zoom lens offers a zoom ratio of approximately 2.8 times to cover wide-angle to standard ranges (for focal lengths equivalent to 27.5mm to 76.5mm in the 35mm format), which are the most frequently used ranges in general photography. Thanks to its new retractable mechanism, it measures a mere 41mm in length in the stored position — the world’s shortest for a standard zoom lens — to ensure outstanding portability when combined with today’s downsized digital SLR camera body.

2. Dependable weather-resistant construction: This lens features a dependable weather-resistant construction with nine special seals to effectively prevent the intrusion of water into the interior. By pairing it with a weather-resistant PENTAX digital SLR camera body, the user is guaranteed a durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly in demanding shooting settings — even in the rain or mist, or at locations prone to water splashes or spray.

3. Exceptional image rendition to accommodate latest digital SLR cameras: Incorporating super-low dispersion glass elements and aspherical elements in its 11-element/eight-group optics, this lens effectively compensates various aberrations for high-contrast, high-resolution, fine-detailed images with minimal colour bleeding.

4. HD Coating to improve image description: This lens is treated with a high-grade, multi-layer HD Coating.* Compared with conventional multi-layer coatings, this PENTAX-original coating ensures less reflection and higher light transmittance, to deliver bright, high-contrast images free of flare and ghost images, even under demanding lighting conditions such as backlight.

* HD stands for High Definition

5. Quick-Shift Focus System: This lens is equipped with the PENTAX-developed Quick-Shift Focus System, which allows the user to instantly switch to manual-focus operation, even when the camera’s AF system is in operation.

6. Other features:

SP (Super Protect) Coating applied to the front surface of the lens to effectively repel water and grease
Smooth, quiet autofocus operation, driven by the built-in DC motor
Rounded diaphragm to produce a smooth, beautiful bokeh effect, while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources
Low-profile lens hood (included),designed for easy carrying without the need to remove it from the lens for storage

DPReview has published reviews and specs of most Pentax cameras launched since 2000 including the recently announced Pentax KP. The list includes DSLR’s and compact’s.

More info: https://www.dpreview.com/products/pentax/cameras?subcategoryId=cameras