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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
All articles from Digital Photography Review

Dodging, burning... microwaving? A look inside Ansel Adams' darkroom
9 Jul 2016 at 12:00pm

In a recent interview with Marc Silber of Advancing Your Photography, Ansel Adams' son Michael gives a tour of his father's darkroom.

The basics are all there, but by and large, they were designed by Adams for the space he was in. Sure, the dodge-and-burn stick is literally a stick with some cardboard taped to it, but the enlarger and wall mount are both on a custom-built track, and can be moved independently toward or away from each other depending on Adams' needs. The light source in the enlarger is actually 30 individual light sources, each with its own switch for the utmost control over a negative's illumination.

My favorite part? When Michael details how his father tested exposures with a new image. It's pretty standard up until the end, when he says that Adams would routinely microwave the test print ? it would dry faster that way, and the best way to ascertain the correct exposure is with a dry print. The more you know!

It's a fascinating look back into the world of film and physical prints, and a reminder that creativity and control don't necessarily require the fanciest equipment money can buy. 


Phottix launches Spartan multi-purpose beauty dish/softbox
8 Jul 2016 at 6:02pm

Lighting and accessories manufacturer Phottix has launched a new light modifier for studio heads and hotshoe guns that can be used as a beauty dish as well as an octa softbox. The Spartan is collapsible, uses flexible rods for its assembly and comes in 20" and 28" sizes. The central metal diffuser of the beauty dish configuration can be removed and users just have to attach the front diffuser panel to switch it to a softbox. A set of clasps along the rod housings allow a second diffuser to be attached directly in front of the light source, to create an extra diffused effect.

To make the light from the softbox more directional Phottix supplies its standard egg-crate grid that attaches to the inner circumference of the dish just in front of the forward diffuser.

The Spartan comes with a Bowens S-Type mount which fits the Phottix Indra heads, but speed rings are available for most other studio heads. The company?s Cerberus hotshoe flash mount is also compatible with the Spartan, so standard hotshoe speedlights can be mounted to the back of the modifier.

The Phottix Spartan is available now and costs $120 for the 20in model and $145 for the 28in model. For more information visit the Phottix website.


Manufacturer information:

Meet the Phottix Spartan Beauty Dish

Introducing the Phottix Spartan Beauty Dish. The perfect on-location light modifier, the Phottix Spartan assembles easily using flexible rods, a huge benefit over the time-consuming setup of traditional octa softboxes.

The Phottix Spartan collapsible beauty dish is made from high-grade materials. The white interior produces softer, more even light. Included in the kit are a metal beauty dish ?disk?, baffle, front diffuser and fabric grid.

The Phottix Spartan is more than just a beauty dish?it quickly transforms into a traditional octa softbox by replacing the metal diffuser with the internal baffle. Add the outer diffuser for even more softness and the grid to make the light directional. All with the speed and ease that will make Phottix Spartan your first choice in light modifiers.

The Phottix Spartan comes in two popular sizes ? 50cm / 20 inches and 70cm / 28 inches ? perfect for single subjects and couples. Use with the award-winning Phottix Indra series of studio lights or mount to the Phottix Cerberus Hot Shoe Flash Mount.


Samsung launches first removable UFS memory cards
8 Jul 2016 at 5:51pm

Samsung has announced that it intends to produce the first removable versions of a new format of memory cards designed, it says, to replace the microSD card in portable electronic devices such as cameras, drones and phones.

The Universal Flash Storage cards are as small as microSD cards but boast enhanced read/write speeds, with the company claiming that 5GB can be read in just 10 seconds at a rate of 530MB/s. The write speeds a less impressive however, with a quoted maximum of 170MB/s, but Samsung says that is still almost twice the speed of a top end microSD card. The company says its cards will write at 170MB/s, which compares well to the 100MB/s rate quoted by SanDisk for its Extreme Pro UHS-II cards. The same SanDisk card reads at 275MB/s.

Although the format was announced in a white paper (pdf) in 2013, and Samsung announced its plans in February, this is the first time the cards appeared to become a reality with compliance with the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council (JEDEC) standards.

The company expects to introduce capacities of 32, 64,128 and 256GB, but hasn?t said when or whether there will be devices to take them.

Press release:

Samsung Introduces World?s First Universal Flash Storage (UFS) Removable Memory Card Line-up, Offering up to 256-Gigabyte (GB) Capacity


Samsung Electronics, the world leader in advanced memory technology, today unveiled the industry?s first removable memory cards based on the JEDEC Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 1.0 Card Extension Standard*, for use in high-resolution mobile shooting devices such as DSLRs, 3D VR cameras, action cams and drones. Coming in a wide range of storage capacities including 256, 128, 64 and 32 gigabyte (GB), Samsung?s UFS cards are expected to bring a significant performance boost to the external memory storage market, allowing much more satisfying multimedia experiences.

?Our new 256GB UFS card will provide an ideal user experience for digitally-minded consumers and lead the industry in establishing the most competitive memory card solution,? said Jung-bae Lee, senior vice president, Memory Product Planning & Application Engineering, Samsung Electronics ?By launching our new high-capacity, high-performance UFS card line-up, we are changing the growth paradigm of the memory card market to prioritize performance and user convenience above all.?

Samsung?s new 256GB UFS removable memory card ? simply referred to as the UFS card will provide greatly improved user experiences, especially in high-resolution 3D gaming and high-resolution movie playback. It provides more than five times faster sequential read performance compared to that of a typical microSD card, reading sequentially at 530 megabytes per second (MB/s) which is similar to the sequential read speed of the most widely used SATA SSDs. With this UFS card, consumers have the ability to read a 5GB, Full-HD movie in approximately 10 seconds, compared to a typical UHS-1 microSD card, which would take over 50 seconds with 95MB/s of sequential reading speed. Also, at a random read rate of 40,000 IOPS, the 256GB card delivers more than 20 times higher random read performance compared to a typical microSD, which offers approximately 1,800 IOPS.

When it comes to writing, the new 256GB UFS card processes 35,000 random IOPS, which is 350 times higher than the 100 IOPs of a typical microSD card, and attains a 170MB/s sequential write speed, almost doubling the top-end microSD card speed. With these substantial performance improvements, the new 256GB UFS card significantly reduces multimedia data downloading time, photo thumbnail loading time and buffer clearing time in burst shooting mode, which, collectively, can be particularly beneficial to DSLR camera users. To shoot 24 large/extra fine JPEG photographs (1,120 megabyte (MB)-equivalent) continuously with a high-end DSLR camera, the 256GB UFS card takes less than seven seconds, compared to a UHS-1 microSD card which typically takes about 32 seconds, at 35MB/s.

To achieve the highest performance and most power-efficient data transport, the UFS card supports multiple commands with command queuing features and enables simultaneous reading and writing through the use of separately dedicated paths, doubling throughput.

As the leading memory storage provider, Samsung has been aggressive in preparing UFS solutions for the marketplace, while contributing to JEDEC standardization of the Universal Flash Storage 2.0 specification in September 2013 and the Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 1.0 Card Extension standard in March 2016. Following its introduction of the industry-first 128GB embedded UFS chip in January 2015, the company successfully launched a 256GB embedded UFS memory for high-end mobile devices in February of this year. As of earlier this month, Samsung also completed the Universal Flash Storage Association** (UFSA)?s certification program that evaluates electrical and functional specifications for compatibility of a UFS card, and Samsung?s new UFS card products were approved as UFSA-certified UFS cards with the right to use the official UFS logo for the first time in the industry.


3rd annual International Drone Photography Contest winners announced
8 Jul 2016 at 12:00pm
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Dronestagram has announced the winners of its third annual International Drone Photography Contest. Three winners were selected in each of the following categories: ?Travel,? ?Sports Adventure,? and ?Nature Wildlife.? According to National Geographic, which was one of the contest?s sponsors, Dronestagram received 5900 entries from photographers across 28 countries.

The Dronestagram contest seeks out the best photographs taken with a drone, and deliberately looks for images that couldn?t have been taken any other way. According to Dronestagram marketing and development head Guillaume Jarret who spoke with Nat Geo, 'A great drone picture is a picture that you immediately identify as a drone photo. It is taken at a low altitude, near the target of the picture.'

The winners are:

Travel category: 

1st place: Francesco Cattuto?s "Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi in Umbria, Italy" 2nd place: Todd Kennedy?s "Cable Beach" 3rd place: Karolis Janulis? "Summer camp of Gran Canaria"

Sports Adventure category:

1st place: maxseigal's "Moab Rock Climbing" 2nd place: losmanesdeldrone's "Complejo Acu�tico Norte de Santander" 3rd place: High Angle Shot's "Chugach Mountain Range, Alaska"

Nature Wildlife category:

1st place: mbernholdt's "Kalbyris forest Denmark" 2nd place: Szabolcs Ignacz?s "Swarm of sheep" 3rd place: Jonathan Payet's "Piton de la fournaise, Volcano"

Via: Dronestagram


FLM CP-Travel tripod aims for ultimate in portability and versatility
7 Jul 2016 at 11:04pm
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German photo accessory manufacturer FLM is launching a new travel tripod on indiegogo. The CP-Travel will be made of ten layers of carbon fiber and will be able to support up to 10kg/22lb of gear. When fully collapsed, the tripod will fit in a carry-on suitcase, with a maximum height of 142cm/55.9in when completely extended.

The CP-Travel offers interchangeable rubber and spiked feet, using a revamped changing system that the company calls more secure and better able to dampen vibrations. Seeking funding to send the CP-Travel tripod into production, FLM is offering early bird discounts to its first backers. The company anticipates a final $635 MSRP when it becomes available in October.


Light raises $30M and provides update on L16 multi-lens camera
7 Jul 2016 at 5:55pm

Light, the startup that is developing the L16 multi-lens computational camera, has raised $30M in venture capital in a series C round of funding led by GV (formerly Google Ventures). The company says it will use the additional funds to scale its global supply chain in order to deal with customer demand.

The company has also announced some changes to the L16's specification after listening to feedback from its pre-order customers. Many voiced a preference for a wider angle of view at the short end of the zoom range, and the L16 will now provide a 28-150mm optical zoom equivalent instead of the initially announced 35-150mm.

Additionally, the camera will ship with 256GB of built-in memory instead of the 128GB listed in the original specifications. You can see the fully updated L16 specifications here and watch the video below to see how the prototype cameras are being manufactured.

 


Under pressure: Canon vs. Nikon in a hydraulic press
7 Jul 2016 at 3:15pm

It's a question photographers have been asking since time immemorial ? or since the 1970s, at any rate: which is best? Canon or Nikon? The brave souls over at the Hydraulic Press Channel are committed to finding out. And they're going to do so in the only way they know how - by using a hydraulic press. In the yellow corner: a Nikon FA. In the red corner: a Canon AE-1. 

We don't want to ruin the outcome of this unconventional two-way test before you've watched the video (apart from anything else, we're far from clear on the criteria of the contest) but we dare you to only watch it once.


Elevating X-Trans? Fujifilm X-T2 First Impressions Review
7 Jul 2016 at 5:00am

The Fujifilm X-T2 is an updated version of the company's top-level DSLR-shaped APS-C camera. It's built around the same 24MP X-Trans sensor as the X-Pro2 but ends up being much more than an X-T1 with more pixels. Instead, the X-T2 is a camera that does much to address the X-System's remaining weaknesses, which can only broaden its already considerable appeal.

Fujifilm X-T2 Key Features: 24MP X-Trans CMOS III sensor 325 AF points (169 of which offer phase detection) AF point selection joystick 2.36M-dot OLED EVF with 0.005 sec refresh time (60 fps or 100 fps in boost mode) 3" 1.04M-dot articulating LCD 4K UHD video at up to 30 fps for up to 10 min (30 min with booster grip) F-Log flat profile and 4K out over HDMI 8 fps continuous shooting with AF (11 fps with booster grip) 5 fps continuous shooting with live view updates between capture Dual SD card slots (UHS-II compatible) USB 3.0 socket

The X-Pro2 represented a good step forward for image quality within the system and the X-T2 gains all of that improvement, but there are also some considerable changes in terms of autofocus, video and flash control, suggesting Fujifilm wants its the X-T2 to be an all-round more capable camera than its predecessor, rather than just building on its existing strengths.

The body seems broadly unchanged at first glance but there's a clever doubly-hinged flip-out screen that seems to offer many of the flexibility advantages of a fully articulated monitor while retaining the more compact form of a tilting screen.

There's also a Performance Boost mode that speeds up several aspects of the camera's behavior (at the expense of some battery life), but that really comes into its own when the optional 'Power Boost Vertical Grip' is added. None of these additions comes for free, though: at $1599, body only, the X-T2's launch price has jumped $300, compared to its predecessors'.

Autofocus

Part and parcel of that 24MP sensor are the 169 phase-detection points that we saw in a large central square region of the sensor on the X-Pro2. Beyond this, the X-T2 now gains an extra two columns of 13 contrast-detection AF points down each side of the frame, widening its AF area and bringing it to a total of 325 AF points in total.

Fujifilm also promises a more powerful processor and revised algorithms, along with faster sensor read-out, to improve the camera's speed, regardless of whether it's using a combination of phase detection and contrast detection (Hybrid AF), or simply the latter alone.

To get the best-possible performance out of the newly refined AF system, the X-T2 introduces a use case-based AF-C setup system. Much like the one we've seen on high-end Canon DSLRs, this lets you specify the types of movement you're expecting from your subject, so that the camera can try to respond appropriately.

Video

The X-T2 makes a bigger leap forward into video than we were expecting. There was much chatter around the time of the X-Pro2's launch that the camera's hardware was, theoretically, capable of 4K capture, but that the company hadn't pursued its development for such a stills-orientated model. Well, it has now.

The X-T2's movie capabilities are a big step forward for the system.

But Fujifilm has done more than just do enough to be able to emblazon the phrase '4K capable' on the box: the camera also gains a mic socket and on-screen audio monitoring with the ability to assign mic volume to a Fn button. There's also an 'F-Log' flat profile to give flexibility while color grading.

The good news is that our first shots of our test scene suggest the camera's 4K footage is much more impressive than the 1080p that the first X-Trans cameras could muster. Fujifilm says its taken from an area 1.8x larger than the 4K UHD region, which suggests oversampling in each dimension. Combine this with 4K output over HDMI and the X-T2 looks like the first X-Trans camera that might appeal to shooters interested in shooting both stills and video.

Flash control

One of the missing pieces of an increasingly well fleshed-out XF mount system has been the lack of advanced flash control - something that the X-T2 is looking to address. Up until now, users have had to turn to third-party makers if they wanted to communicate TTL flash information to remote flash units.

The newly introduced EF-X500 flash allows high speed flash sync and remote TTL flash control for the first time, making it significantly easier to use the X-T2 with strobes.

Optional 'Power Booster Grip'

Along with the X-T2, Fujifilm has introduced the VPB-XT2, a vertical battery grip that holds two extra batteries. As well as significantly extending the camera's battery life, the grip also extends the camera's 'Boost' mode. With the grip attached, this is able to draw power from multiple batteries, increasing the camera's maximum continuous shooting rate, as well as extending its video recording time to 30 minutes.

The entertainingly-named 'Vertical Power Booster Grip' can house two addition batteries (without displacing the camera's internal unit), helping increase capacity to around 1000 frames between charges. It also adds a headphone socket and a 'Boost' switch that improves responsiveness and ups the frame rate to 11 fps.

This grip features the same level of environmental sealing as the camera body and also plays host to a headphone socket for audio monitoring while shooting video.

Review History Review History 6 July 2016 First Impressions, Studio Scene and Beta Gallery published,
based on pre-production camera running f/w 1.34
Faster flagship: Hands-on with the Fujifilm X-T2
7 Jul 2016 at 5:00am
Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

When the X-Pro2 was announced earlier this year, it seemed only a matter of time before Fujifilm unveiled a replacement to its 'other' flagship, the X-T1. The just-announced X-T2 boasts the company's newest 24MP sensor, an AF joystick and a significant speed boost.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

Externally, the X-T2 looks virtually identical to the older X-T1, which is no bad thing. Fujifilm got a lot right in the X-T1, and its replacement doesn't change the basic recipe. The new camera is about 70g heavier, but side-by-side, you'd be hard pushed to tell it apart from its predecessor.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

The traditional Fujifilm top-plate, with its array of dials. From left: ISO > Shutter speed > exposure compensation.

One of the very few ergonomic differences between the X-T2 and its predecessor is the omission of a movie recording button from the upper-right of the top plate. This is made up for (sort of) by the addition of a movie recording position on the main exposure mode dial, but we're not sure why Fujifilm would remove this button completely. 

Since we're looking at the hot shoe, it's worth mentioning that the camera can sync with flashes at 1/250 sec. The overall shutter speed range on the X-T2 is 30 - 1/8000 sec with the mechanical shutter, with a top speed of 1/32000 when you switch to the e-Shutter.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

Keen eyes will spot the new movie recording position on the mode dial (upper left in this image). The X-T2 offers by far the most advanced movie recording specification of any Fujifilm camera, including 4K (3840 x 2160) video, which to be honest, was a major surprise when we first saw the camera's spec sheet.

Traditionally a major weak point of Fujifilm's X-series it seems like the company is really stepping up its efforts when it comes to video.

The X-T2's electronic viewfinder hardware appears to be unchanged from the excellent 2.36 million-dot, 0.5" OLED found in the original X-T1, but the refresh rate jumps from 55fps to 60 or 100fps, depending on the camera's mode.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

A predictable - but very welcome - addition to the X-T2 is a dedicated AF joystick (shown here just beneath the 'Q' button). Inherited from the X-Pro2, this joystick makes placing the AF point extremely fast and easy - something that could definitely not be said of previous X-series cameras (and many mirrorless cameras in general). 

A less obvious change to the X-T2's rear controls is a slightly longer travel and more positive tactile response from the buttons surrounding 'Menu/OK'. These controls on the X-T1 were disconcertingly mushy. On the X-T2, when you push a button, you know it.

Speaking of autofocus, the Hybrid AF system on the X-T2 has 325 points in total, 169 of which are phase-detect. Fujifilm says that the data readout speed has been doubled compared to previous (undisclosed) models and that all focus points are sensitive to -3EV.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

Speaking of tactile feedback, we were really hoping that the X-T2 would feature a touchscreen, like its baby brother the X70. No such luck. But at least it's partially articulating - unlike the X-Pro2's LCD. 

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

As well as tilting straight out, the rear screen can also be folded out to 45 degrees....

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

...and hinged sideways!

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

The major benefit of this kind of articulation is that it makes waist-level shooting easy even in the vertical orientation. 

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

Twin card slots can be found under a sprung door located on the X-T2's grip. A rubber gasket seals the slots against dust and moisture incursion. 

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

The X-T2's NP-W126S battery can be found nestled inside the grip, accessible from a door on the base of the camera. According to Fujifilm, a single battery should be expected to last for approximately 340 images. Not great, but typical for a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera.

You can't quite see in this shot, but one deceptively major change in the X-T2 compared to its predecessor is that the tripod socket on the camera's base has been centered to the lens axis, meaning that on most tripods, you won't need to unscrew the camera from the tripod plate before you can access the battery compartment - a point of occasional frustration with the X-T1. 

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

If you need greater endurance (or you just have big hands) you might be interested in the optional VPB-XT2 grip. This grip takes two additional batteries, making three in total, extending the camera's total battery life to more than 1000 shots.

There's a 'boost mode' on the camera which uses the grip, increasing burst shooting from 8 to 11 fps (with the mechanical shutter), reducing shutter lag and blackout times and permitting up to 30 minutes of 4K video capture. Do note that if you want live view between shots, you'll need to drop the frame rate down to 5 fps.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

The two additional batteries slot into a neat little tray which fits into the grip like so. Here you can also see a plug that accepts a 9V power adapter, so the grip can be charged separate from the camera.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

Any self-respecting battery grip offers duplicated vertical controls, and the VPB-XT2 is no different. Here you can see the duplicated shutter button, rear control dial (there's another one on the front) and secondary AF positioning joystick. 

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

The X-T2 ships with a dedicated compact flashgun, the EF-X8. This can be used to command a group of external flashguns wirelessly - always a welcome feature on high-end cameras.

A new high-end flash ? the EF-X500 ? will also be available when the X-T2 launches. It has a guide number of 50m at ISO 100, supports high speed sync, includes a video lamp and covers a range of 24-105mm (or down to 20mm with the included wide panel). It'll be priced at $449 when it ships in September.

Faster flagship: Hands-on with Fujifilm X-T2

The Fujifilm X-T2 will retail for $1599 body-only or with an 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 lens for $1899, and will be available in September. We're headed to New York soon to interview senior Fujifilm executives - what should we ask them? Let us know in the comments. 


Now with 4K: Fujifilm X-T2 offers 24MP, improved AF and video specs
7 Jul 2016 at 5:00am
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Fujifilm has updated its premium SLR-style X-series lineup with the X-T2, bringing 4K video capture to its lineup for the first time.

The camera uses the 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor first seen in the X-Pro2 and also includes an upgraded hybrid AF system with more focus points, as well as an AF-point selection joystick a la the X-Pro2. There's also a faster top mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000 sec (1/32,000 sec with the electronic electronic), an improved AF-C algorithm and an overall boost in response times when using the camera. Like the X-T1, this camera is weather-sealed.

The X-T2 offers an unchanged 2.36 million-dot OLED EVF carried over from its predecessor, but the 1.04 million-dot 3" LCD has an additional hinge for waist-level portrait-orientation shooting. An optional 'Vertical Power Booster Grip' is offered. The grip houses two batteries and lives up to its name by 'boosting' mechanical shutter burst shooting to 11 fps (from 8 fps), reducing shutter lag and blackout time slightly and allowing for 30 minutes of 4K capture (as opposed to 10). 

An EF-X500 hot shoe flash is also introduced for the system, offering a guide number of 50 with a tilting flash head.

The Fujifilm X-T2 will be available in September for $1,599.95 body-only, or bundled with the XF18-55mm for $1,899.95. The EF-XF500 flash will also be available in September for $449.99.


Press release:

Fujifilm Unveils the New X-T2, the Ultimate Mirrorless Camera with New Autofocus System and 4K Video Shooting

X-T2 gives users cutting-edge performance that delivers premium imaging quality in a classic design that is a joy to use; New FUJIFILM EF-X500 flash arrives

Valhalla, N.Y., July 7, 2016 ? As a leader in advanced digital camera technology and outstanding image quality, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJIFILM X-T2, a splash-resistant premium interchangeable lens camera with a large OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF). The X-T2 houses the latest generation 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III with an APS-C sensor with no low-pass filter, boasting the highest performance in the history of X Series. The new X-T2 produces crisp image resolution comparable to that of cameras equipped with larger sensors and higher pixel counts, all in a more compact and classically-designed body.

And for the first time, the new FUJIFILM X-T2 now supports 4K video recording that can use each available Film Simulation mode, including ACROS, to easily produce premium-quality footage that is as unique as the photographer behind the viewfinder.

Dramatic improvement to auto focus system The FUJIFILM X-T2 receives a dramatically improved auto focus system (AF) that increases the overall single AF points to 325, and the number of Zone focusing points to 91 (expanded from 49 in previous models). Approximately 40% of the imaging area (center area containing 49 focusing points) is covered with phase detection auto focus pixels to form a fast and precise phase detection auto focus area that can be used in a variety of scenes.

With the high-speed X-Processor Pro and the use of improved algorithms, the X-T2 now refocuses more frequently, enabling predictive AF of advanced accuracy.

The X-T2 also has an enhanced ability to autofocus on small points of light, low-contrast objects and subjects with fine and delicate textures such as bird feathers and animal fur.

The X-T2?s performance of contrast detection AF, enabled for approximately 65% of the imaging area, has also been improved. The data read speed has been doubled compared to previous models to achieve AF performance of higher speed and precision. Photographers will enjoy accurate focusing is all shooting situations, even in low light with a -3EV.

Another area of improvement is the AF-C algorithm that has been significantly enhanced for even higher accuracy when focus-tracking moving subjects in the AF-C mode. According to the type of movement, users can choose individual settings for Subject Retention Characteristic, Acceleration / Deceleration Tracking Characteristic and Focus Zone Characteristic, or select one of five presets or customize specific settings for these three elements.

Image Quality
Fujifilm?s commitment to superior image quality remains a guiding principle, and the FUJIFILM X-T2 is the latest effort to deliver outstanding picture resolution, all from a compact and sophisticated body that is both weather-sealed and easy to travel with in any location. With Fujifilm?s proprietary image design technology, produced through the development of photographic films, the X-T2 reproduces warm skin tones, bright blue skies and rich green foliage in beautiful colors, just as you remember seeing in real life. The X-T2 includes the ACROS Film Simulation for smooth gradation, deep blacks and beautiful textures to create monochrome images that far outperform even the most demanding expectations.

The X-T2 also has the Grain Effect function for reproducing distinctive graininess seen in photographs taken with film cameras. The function is available in Strong and Weak options, and can be combined with any of the Film Simulation modes. You can easily obtain the effect of film-based photos, notable especially when the image is printed out.

Speedy throughout
Basic response specifications, such as startup time, shooting interval and shutter release time lag, have all been improved to the extreme in pursuit of a camera that operates exactly as the photographer demands. The high-speed processing power and the use of improved algorithms have significantly improved the basic autofocus performance, and X-T2 now gives users AF-C Custom Settings for even higher accuracy in focus-tracking moving subjects.

The X-T2?s electronic viewfinder, which is used to continuously track a moving subject, is capable of displaying up to 100 frames per second, while also maintaining the magnification ratio of 0.77x and the display time lag of 0.005 seconds. The duration of the viewfinder blackout, in which the evf blacks out temporarily while the camera reads picture data, has been reduced by more than half, enabling continuous shooting to ensure tracking subject movements.

Body and grip offer ultimate stability
The X-T2?s body is fully made of magnesium alloy making it not only compact and lightweight, but also solid and highly durable. The X-T2 body has weather-proofing at 63 points to achieve a high level of resistance to dust and moisture, and coupled with its ability to operate in temperatures down to 14�F, is ready for full-fledged field photography. Similar ruggedness is applied to the new Vertical Power Booster Grip.

The Vertical Power Booster Grip (optional VPB-XT2) is a dust-resistant grip, rugged and capable of operating at temperatures as low as 14�F that maximizes the performance of the X-T2 beyond expectations. It fits two batteries, bringing the total number of batteries the X-T2 can use to three, including the one in-camera, to increase the maximum number of frames that can be taken per charge to approximately 1,000 (Normal mode). In the Boost mode, multiple batteries can operate at the same time to give a boost to camera performance in continuous shooting, shooting interval, shutter release time lag and blackout time, while also extending the duration of 4K video recording to approximately 30 minutes.

The Vertical Power Booster Grip also features a shutter release button, focus thumbstick, AE-L button, AF-L button, command dials, Q button and Fn button and headphone jack to enable audio monitoring during video recording to provide the same level of excellent operability in vertical shooting as you get in horizontal operation. The grip itself has battery-charging functionality where by using the AC adapter supplied (AC-9VS), users can fully charge two batteries at the same time in about two hours.

FUJIFILM EF-X500 Flash
The new high-end multi-function external FUJIFILM EF-X500 Flash is now official for the lineup of accessories for the X Series of digital cameras. The EF-X500 is a hot-shoe mount flash with a maximum guide number of approximately 50, and includes support for the FP mode (high-speed flash sync) so that the flash can be fired at any shutter speed. Photographers can now concentrate on shooting when a faster shutter speed is required, for example, in order to use a near-maximum aperture to produce beautiful bokeh.

The EF-X500 also supports multi-flash lighting. Users can set up multiple flashes to freely control light on a subject and background for a creative result. Through-the-lens (TTL) lighting control is available with single flash and also in the multi-flash setup, so that users can start shooting without having to make cumbersome adjustments to light output.

EF-X500 Flash key features: 

Maximum guide number of approximately 50 (ISO100?m) / 164 (ISO100�ft) ? Zooming the illumination angle for the focal lengths of 24mm - 105mm, and covering the illumination angle of approximately 20mm when the wide panel is used Flash head that can be tilted up by 90� degrees, down by 10� degrees, to the left by 135� degrees and to the right by 180� degrees for bouncing light Equipped with LED video light that can also be used as AF assist light and catch light Registers up to ten combinations of various setting to suit specific shooting conditions in advance for quick activation when needed

FUJIFILM X-T2 key features:

24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III Sensor Dust and moisture-resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance to 14�F X-Processor Pro
- Fast AF of 0.06 seconds
- Startup time of 0.3 seconds
- Shutter time lag of 0.045 seconds
- Shooting interval of 0.17 seconds
- Phase detection AF and motion predictive AF for continuous shooting up to 8 frames per second (fps)
- Up to 11fps using Booster Grip High-precision 0.48-inch, 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder
- Viewfinder magnification for digital cameras of 0.77x
- Wide viewing angle (diagonal 38� and horizontal 31�)
- Ultra-fast Real Time Viewfinder with a lag-time of 0.005sec (less than 1/10 of existing models)
- Automatic Brightness Adjustment function
- EVF refreshes at a rate of 60fps, or as high as 100fps in the Boost mode
- Continuous shooting of 5fps in Live View Full 4K 3840x2160 30P/25P/24P shooting (Using a card with the UHS Speed Class 3 or higher)
- Continuous recording: up to approximately 10 minutes
- Full HD 1920x1080 60P/50P/30P/25P/24P, Continuous recording: up to approximately 15 minutes
- HD 1280x720 60P/50P/30P/25P/24P, Continuous recording: up to approximately 29 minutes Four different display modes: Full, Normal, Dual and Vertical
- Full mode: Displays shooting information at the top and bottom of the screen to avoid obstruction of the view
- Dual mode: Adds a small second screen for checking focus point with Focus Peak Highlight or Digital Split Image
- Normal mode: Lets you concentrate on framing the shot in Auto Focus mode while keeping you aware of how the shooting conditions are changing, making it the perfect setting for sports and action photography
- Portrait mode: When in Full or Normal modes, it rotates the shooting information interface when the camera is turned vertically Tempered glass 1.04 million dot high-precision 3? tilting LCD monitor Digital Split Image and Focus Highlight Peaking Wi-Fi and remote camera operation ISO200 - 6400, extended ISO 100, 12800, 25600, Auto(maximum ISO setting from ISO 400 ? ISO6400 available) with High ISO 51200 setting Lens Modulation Optimizer technology maximizes each lens? performance In-camera RAW converter Die-cast magnesium body provides a sturdy and durable, while compact and lightweight design Two command dials and six Function buttons for instant control and customization Interval timer shooting for Time Lapse photography is available with intervals of 1 second to 24 hours and up to ??? frames Advanced filters and Film Simulations, including ACROS

FUJIFILM X-T2 Accessories:

Vertical Power Booster Grip (optional VPB-XT2) New X-T2 Metal Hand Grip (MHG-XT2) New X-T2 Bottom Leather Case (BLC-XT2) New X-T2 Cover Kit (CVR-XT2) New NP-W126S Rechargeable Battery New Five dedicated flash models to choose from depending on requirements (EF-X500 New, EF-X8, EF-X20, EF-20, EF-42) Battery Pack EF-BP1, compatible with EF-X500 New Protective Filters (PRF-39, PRF-52, PRF-58, PRF-62 and PRF-72) M Mount Adapter for additional lens compatibility Remote Release (RR-90) Stereo Microphone (MIC-ST1)

Availability and Pricing
The new FUJIFILM X-T2 (body only) will be available in September 2016 in the U.S. for USD $1,599.95. The X-T2 and XF18-55mm (27-84mm) kit will be available in September 2016 in the U.S. for USD $1,899.95.

The FUJIFILM EF-X500 Flash will be available in September 2016 in the U.S. for USD $449.99.

Fujifilm X-T2 specifications PriceMSRP$1599 (body only), $1899 (w/18-55mm)Body typeBody typeSLR-style mirrorlessBody materialMagnesium alloySensorMax resolution6000 x 4000Other resolutions3:2 (4240 x 2832, 3008 x 2000), 16:9 (6000 x 3376, 4240 x 2384, 3008 x 1688), 1:1 (4000 x 4000, 2832 x 2832, 2000 x 2000)Image ratio w:h1:1, 3:2, 16:9Effective pixels24 megapixelsSensor sizeAPS-C (23.6 x 15.6 mm)Sensor typeCMOSProcessorX-Processor Pro2Color spacesRGB, Adobe RGBColor filter arrayX-TransImageISOAuto, 200 -12800 (expands to 100-51200)Boosted ISO (minimum)100Boosted ISO (maximum)51200White balance presets7Custom white balanceYes (3 slots)Image stabilizationNoImage stabilization notesLens onlyUncompressed formatRAWJPEG quality levelsFine, normalFile format JPEG (Exif v2.3)Raw (Fujifilm RAF, 14-bit) Optics & FocusAutofocus Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View Autofocus assist lampYesManual focusYesNumber of focus points325Lens mountFujifilm XFocal length multiplier1.5×Screen / viewfinderArticulated LCDTiltingScreen size3Screen dots104,000Touch screenNoLive viewYesViewfinder typeElectronicViewfinder coverage100%Viewfinder magnification0.77×Viewfinder resolution2,360,000Photography featuresMinimum shutter speed30 secMaximum shutter speed1/8000 secMaximum shutter speed (electronic)1/32000 secExposure modes ProgramShutter priorityAperture priorityManual Built-in flashNo (Small external flash included)External flashYesFlash modesAuto, standard, slow sync, manual, commanderFlash X sync speed1/250 secContinuous drive14.0 fpsSelf-timerYes (2 or 10 secs)Metering modes MultiCenter-weightedSpot Exposure compensation±5 (at 1/3 EV steps)AE Bracketing±2 (3 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps)WB BracketingYesVideography featuresResolutions3840 x 2160 (29.97p, 25p, 24p, 23.98p), 1920 x 1080 (59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 24p, 23.98p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p)FormatMPEG-4, H.264MicrophoneStereoSpeakerMonoStorageStorage typesDual SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS IIConnectivityUSB USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)HDMIYes (micro-HDMI)Microphone portYesHeadphone portNoWirelessBuilt-InWireless notes802.11b/g/nRemote controlYes (via smartphone or wired remote)PhysicalEnvironmentally sealedYesBatteryBattery PackBattery descriptionNP-W126S lithium-ion battery & chargerBattery Life (CIPA)340Weight (inc. batteries)507 g (1.12 lb / 17.88 oz)Dimensions133 x 92 x 49 mm (5.24 x 3.62 x 1.93)Other featuresOrientation sensorYesTimelapse recordingYesGPSNone
Fujifilm to update X-Pro2 firmware, releases new lens roadmap
7 Jul 2016 at 5:00am

Fujifilm has announced new firmware for its X-Pro2 mirrorless camera which, most notably, updates the autofocus algorithm to be in-line with the just-announced X-T2. The company promises better AF speed and accuracy, but notes that the use case-based system on the X-T2 will not be available on the X-Pro2.

The firmware update also improves parallax correction when using the OVF and adds support for the new EF-X500 external flash. 

X-Pro2 owners will be able to get their hands on the new firmware this October.

Along with the new firmware, Fuji has also refreshed its X-mount lens roadmap (shown below), adding three new XF lenses: 23mm F2 R WR, 50mm F2 R WR and 80mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro. The 23mm will be shipping this year, while the other two will arrive in 2017.

One lens that was removed is the 120mm F2.8 R Macro, which has been replaced with the aforementioned 80mm Macro. Fuji states that this is 'to meet the market demand for compact and lightweight lenses.'

Press release:

FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES NEW FIRMWARE UPDATE FOR THE X-PRO2 AND UPDATED XF LENS ROADMAP

Valhalla, N.Y., July 7, 2016 ? As a leader in advanced digital camera technology and outstanding image quality, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced a new Firmware Update Version 2.0 for the FUJIFILM X-Pro2 that includes improvements to the autofocus system, compatibility with the new FUJIFILM EF-X500 flash, new power management options and a more accurate and easier-to-use Optical Viewfinder.

Firmware Update V.2.0 Key Features:

The new autofocus algorithm* (found in the new FUJIFILM X-T2) produces faster and more accurate autofocus.
* Excludes the new AF-C Custom Settings functions. Compatibility with the new hot-shoe mount FUJIFILM EF-X500 flash. The camera will now support high-speed flash sync and multi-flash lighting. AUTO POWER OFF will now have 15 second, 30 second, and 1 minute options, allowing more customizable power management. The parallax correction function will be improved to provide a more accurate and easier-to-use Optical Viewfinder.

Availability

The new firmware will be available for download in October 2016. 

Updated XF Lens Roadmap

Also announced is an updated roadmap for developing interchangeable lenses for the X Series line of mirrorless digital cameras. The latest roadmap adds three new lenses: the compact, lightweight and stylish semi-wide angle lens XF23mmF2 R WR, the compact mid-telephoto lens XF50mmF2 R WR and the mid-telephoto 1:1 macro lens XF80mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro. The expanded 25-lens lineup covers extensive angles of view from ultra-wide angle to ultra-telephoto, and will now expand the macro category to further enhance photographic versatility.

Changes from the previous roadmap released in February 2015

The XF120mmF2.8 R Macro lens, listed in the previous roadmap, has been replaced with the XF80mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR to meet the market demand for compact and lightweight lenses. To support our customers who were expecting a telephoto macro lens, this new lens is compatible with the existing teleconverters to extend its reach into the telephoto range.


All about the details: Hasselblad X1D pre-production samples
6 Jul 2016 at 7:52pm

At a recent Hasselblad event in London I got some time with the new 50MP Hasselblad X1D mirrorless camera. The bodies are still very much at the pre-production stage, and many of the proposed features that will be available when the camera goes on sale have still to be implemented.

The unit I used didn?t have touch AF activated, so focusing had to be done with the central AF point or manually, and the Nikon-based flash system was not installed. Hasselblad also made it very clear that the AF speed experienced with this camera did not represent what the production models would manage, and that the image quality is still far from finished. The company has however agreed to let us publish some sample shots to allow readers to get an idea of the sort of resolution and colors the camera can achieve.

I shot Raw and JPEG files and processed them through both Adobe Camera Raw and Hasselblad?s own Phocus software. The difference in color, brightness and general quality is quite different between the two applications, and the JPEGs shown here are from Raw files processed in Phocus. The images have been approved by Hasselblad for publication, but they stress that the minor faults found will not be present in images from the production models. Of the twelve images I sent for approval only one was rejected.

As focusing on off-center subjects meant using the central AF point, locking the focus and recomposing, you?ll note that some images have the focus on the farther eye rather than the closer, but I?ve left these in as they still demonstrate other elements of the image quality. In other shots I focused manually and found that the 2.36-million-dot EVF is of excellent assistance and makes finding focus quite easy.

The camera has a large grip but it feels very secure in the hand, and the whole system is comfortable to hold and to use either to the eye or at arm?s length using the live view screen. The operating system will take a while for DSLR owners to get used to, but it matches the system used on the H6D so current Hasselblad customers will feel at home straight away.

I used the Hassleblad XCD 90mm F3.2 lens that delivers an angle of view we?d associate with a 71mm on a 35mm camera system. Shots taken at ISO 200 were lit with broncolor flash heads, and the ISO 400 and 1600 images were exposed with window light and a little tungsten fill.


Editor's Note: Images have been sharpened to taste in Phocus software. That said, the fact that such high levels of sharpness can be attained with very little image noise cost is a testament to the light-gathering capability of larger, particularly Medium Format, sensors. 


Camera Lift-Strap eases camera weight by clipping to a backpack handle
6 Jul 2016 at 6:37pm

A unique camera strap from PONTE Leather Co. called Camera Lift-Strap has surfaced on crowdfunding website Kickstarter, and it aims to ease the discomfort of carrying heavy cameras around the neck. Camera-Lift Strap features a clasp that is positioned behind the wearer?s neck. When a photographer is also wearing a backpack, the camera strap can be clasped to the backpack's handle, moving the camera's weight off the wearer's neck and distributing it onto his or her shoulders.

The Camera Lift-Strap is presented in two varieties: the Canvas Camera Strap, which is made of weather-treated nylon, and the Leather Camera Strap, which is made from ?top grain leather,? according to PONTE Leather Co. The strap?s metal components are made of brass with an oxide finish. The company plans to offer two attachment types, as well as a custom steel ring for securing all types of cameras to the strap. 

PONTE Leather Co. is currently seeking funding for the product on Kickstarter where remaining pledge options include a canvas Camera Lift-Strap for $26, an early bird leather Camera Lift-Strap for $35, and various multi-strap bundle options at higher price points. The company anticipates shipping the straps to backers in November 2016.

Via: Kickstarter


Hands On: RNI All Films 4.0, analog presets for Lightroom and ACR
6 Jul 2016 at 3:00pm
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All images in the gallery above were processed using presets from RNI All Films 4.0 - Pro (the duplicate is the un-edited version for comparison). Click through for larger previews and more info on which presets were used.

Really Nice Images has announced RNI All Films 4.0, the latest version of its film simulation presets for Lightroom and Adobe Camera Raw. It will be sold in two versions, Pro and Lite. 

In the full 'Pro' version, 58 film stocks are organized into 5 categories including Negative, Slide, Instant, Black & White, and Vintage. And because most film stocks have several versions, in total RNI 4.0 offers more than 300 presets, 170 of which are brand new from the previous release.

Processed using the new 'Fuji Natura 1600 - 01' preset.

RNI specifically highlights Fuji Natura 1600, Fuji Velvia 2.0 and Fuji Pro 400H among its new film stocks, but many more have also been added. Furthermore, according to RNI, the vast majority of presets included from previous releases have been fine-tuned or completely reworked for more accurate skin tones and more realistic grain.

RNI?s film simulations are created from analyzing actual film stocks, so if you are an analog purist, this may be the easiest way to dial in the look of some of your favorite films. RNI 4.0 also now features customized camera profiles, with support for most modern digital cameras.

The software also includes RNI 4 Toolkit, a set of presets that allows users to quickly adjust parameters like grain and softness. They?re useful if you are going for a 'very analog' look. Though I personally found the Toolkit presets made my images look over-processed. And when working with film presets, there is a fine line between good processing and over-processing.

Once installed, RNI presets will show up in the left-most Lightroom panel. Hovering over a preset will show a quick display in the thumbnail (upper left) of what it will look like once applied.

Of course, there are quite a few companies marketing realistic film emulations and presets. Two of the most popular are VSCO Film and DxO Filmpack. VSCO Film, like RNI All FIlm, is a set of analog-like presets for Lightroom and ACR. However, unlike RNI All Film, VSCO Film is packaged into 8 different packs of presets, sold separately. Each pack goes for $59 and includes around 20 film stocks (each film stock has multiple variations, some have up to 10). 

DxO Filmpack 5 on the other hand is both a plugin for LR and ACR and a stand-alone program. It is sold in two editions: the Elite edition is $99, the Essential Edition is $49. The former includes 120 different 'styles,' 80 of which are based off of film. 

RNI All Film 4.0 also comes in two flavors, Pro and Lite. Pro will run you $122. The Lite version, which is stripped down and includes a curated selection of presets from the Pro version will cost you $59, the same as one VSCO pack. Of course, if you?re upgrading from a previous RNI Pro version, the price is cut in half, same goes if you?re upgrading from a previous RNI Lite version to RNI Lite 4.0.

Processed using the ?Fuji Fortia SP? preset. 

I?ve long been a user of VSCO?s film presets, but in just briefly trying out RNI 4.0, I?m eager to keep using it in the future for processing. Most of the actual film stocks (not Toolkit presets) are well-judged and there are plenty to experiment with. Not to mention, RNI 4.0 offers quite a few film stocks not available from the competition.

 You can download All Films 4.0 directly from RNI here.


Wanted: Homepage content tips and freelance writers!
6 Jul 2016 at 11:00am

We're on the lookout for freelance writers to contribute news and short feature content for our homepage. If you're an experienced writer with great editorial instincts who loves ferreting out interesting and unusual photo-related content, we want to hear from you. 

If you're interested in contributing to dpreview.com, click here and tell us about yourself - preferably with links to published work. If we like the cut of your jib, we'll be in touch.

If you're not interested in writing for DPReview, but you've found an interesting story that you think we should write about, you can submit suggestions here.