FUJINON XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Lens
Product Summary
- Model name: FUJINON XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Mounts: Fuji X
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Overview
Built for the X Mount Fuji cameras the FUJINON XF18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS lens comes with optical image stabilization. This lens is particularly great and works like charm with the Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens camera like Fujifilm XE-1. Thanks to the state of the art contrast detection feature and the responsive linear motor, the XE-1 pairs nicely with the XF18-55mm to lock on focus very fast (in fact in only 0.1 seconds).
This extremely high quality all glass lens is designed with 14 lens elements arranged in 10 groups including 3 aspherical elements and 1 extra low dispersion element. The FUJINON XF18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS has a focal length range of 18-55mm which when converted to 35mm format equivalent becomes 27-84mm. It offers an angle of view of 79.1˚-28.4˚. The widest aperture of the lens is f/2.8 at 18mm (27mm at 35mm format equivalent) and f/4 at 55mm (84mm at 35mm format equivalent). The lens can stop down to f/22.
The FUJINON XF18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS features linear motor driven auto-focusing mechanism that allows fast and precise auto-focus. The lens features OIS technology from Fuji which ensures that when hand held it is possible to use a shutter speed up to four stops slower.
The weight of the lens is 310 grams and it takes a filter of size 58mm. Fuji ships all their lenses with a lens hood. For a lens such as this a lens hood is a great idea specially when shooting wide open and in bright sunlight.
Sample Images by FUJINON XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R OIS on Flickr
Product Images
FUJINON XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Specifications
| Type | XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R LM OIS |
|---|---|
| Construction | 14 elements in 10groups (includes 3 aspherical and 1 extra low dispersion elements) |
| Focal length (35mm format equivalent) |
f=18 – 55 mm (27-84 mm) |
| Angle of view | 79.1° – 28.4° |
| Maximum aperture | F2.8 – F4 |
| Minimum aperture | F22 |
| Aperture control |
|
| Focus range |
|
| Maximum magnification | 0.08 – 0.15x |
| Dimensions | ø65.0mm x 70.4mm(Wide)/97.9mm(Telephoto) |
| Wt (excluding caps and hoods) |
Approx. 310g |
| Filter size | ø58mm |
More Info
Purchase options
FUJINON XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
FUJINON XF 35mm f/1.4 R Lens
Product Summary
- Model name: FUJINON XF 35mm f/1.4 R
- Release date:
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Mounts: Fuji X
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Overview
The FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R lens s designed in 8 elements including 1 glass molded aspherical element (5th element) arranged in 6 lens groups. The focal length of the lens is 35mm which when considered together with the crop factor of the 1.52x of X-Pro 1 has an effective focal length range very similar to a 50mm lens mounted on a 35mm DSLR. The angle of view of the lens is 44.2˚.
The lens has a fast f/1.4 aperture which is due to the 7 rounded blades that make up the lens diaphragm. The lens is fast, focuses very well, is very bright and creates a beautiful bokeh (soft out of focus effect when shooting portraiture of other shots). The shallow depth of field created as a result is very nice with the focus being fixed on the subject. At the minimum end the lens can stop down to f/16.
Performance wise vignetting or light fall-off is very well suppressed in the lens and is virtually nil even when shot at f/1.4. There is a manual focusing ring on the lens however the performance of the same is less than desired. However auto-focusing and manual focusing can be done via the camera and they perform very well.
The lens has a very close focusing distance of 0.9’ or 0.28 meters and creates a maximum magnification of ratio 1:5.9. The external specifications of the lens are 2.56″ diameter x 2.16″ and it weighs a nice 187 grams. The filter size specification is 52mm.
Sample Images by FUJINON XF 35mm f/1.4 R on Flickr
Product Images
FUJINON XF 35mm f/1.4 R Len Specifications
| Type | XF35mmF1.4 R |
|---|---|
| Construction | 8 elements in 6 groups (includes 1 aspherical element) |
| Focal length (35mm format equivalent) |
f=35mm (53mm) |
| Angle of view | 44.2° |
| Maximum aperture | F1.4 |
| Minimum aperture | F16 |
| Aperture control |
|
| Focus range | Approx. 28cm – ∞ |
| Maximum magnification | 0.17x |
| Dimensions | ø65.0mm x 54.9mm |
| Wt (excluding caps and hoods) |
Approx. 187g |
| Filter size | ø52mm |
More Info
Purchase options
FUJINON XF 35mm f/1.4 R Lens available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
FUJINON XF 14mm f/2.8 R Lens
Product Summary
- Model name: FUJINON XF 14mm f/2.8 R
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Mounts: Fuji X
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Overview
Made mostly of anodized aluminum the FUJINON XF14mmF2.8 R lens is designed for the Fuji X mount and pairs well with the Fujifilm XE-1 and the X-Pro 1. With both the cameras this X mount lens offers great sharpness across the frame. The reasonably wide f-stop means the lens offers good soft background and or foreground when focusing on something (bokeh). This makes it suitable as a portrait lens as well. Vignetting is greatly suppressed even when the lens is used to shoot at full wide f-stop.
It has a wide f-stop of f/2.8 while it can stop down all the way to f/22. Additionally the focusing distance is only 0.6’ or 7”. The lens is designed using 10 elements arranged in 7 groups including 2 aspherical and 3 extra low dispersion elements. The focal length of the lens is 14mm which when converted to 35mm format equivalent is 21mm. The wide focal length ensures this lens is a great companion for landscape, group and architectural shots.
The XF14mm is a great camera for the purpose of street photography as well. At f/2.8 it has good low light performance which makes it suitable for the purpose of tricky lighting conditions. The FUJINON XF14mmF2.8 R lens has an angle of view of 89˚. 7 rounded blades make up the lens diaphragm. The overall dimensions of the lens are 65mm x 58.4mm and it weighs 215 grams. The lens takes a filter of specifications 58mm. It comes with a free metal hood with plastic bayonet.
Sample Images by FUJINON XF 14mm f/2.8 R on Flickr
Product Images
FUJINON XF 14mm f/2.8 R Specifications
| Type | XF14mmF2.8 R |
|---|---|
| Lens construction | 10 elements in 7 groups (includes 2 aspherical and 3 extra low dispersion elements) |
| Focal length (35mm format equivalent) |
f=14mm (21mm) |
| Angle of view | 89° |
| Max. aperture | F2.8 |
| Min. aperture | F22 |
| Aperture control |
|
| Focus range | Approx. 18cm – ∞ |
| Max. magnification | 0.12x |
| External dimensions | ø65mm x 58.4mm |
| Filter size | ø58mm |
More Info
@ Fujifilm
Purchase options
FUJINON XF 14mm f/2.8 R available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
FUJINON XF 18mm f/2 R Lens
Product Summary
- Model name: FUJINON XF 18mm f/2 R
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Mounts: Fuji X
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Overview
The FUJINON XF18mmF2 R has a very wide focal length of 18mm which when converted to 35mm equivalent gives a still wide field of view as a 27mm lens. It has an angle of view of 76.5˚. The maximum aperture of the lens is f/2 while it can stop down all the way to f/16.
Fuji has used glass-mold aspherical lenses in the 5th and the 7th elements which has the effect of increasing the aperture of the lens (due to the 5th element) and reducing the thickness of the lens (due to the 7th element). One of the major reason why a lens has problems of vignetting and color is the angle of incidence of the light that hits the sensor. The smaller the angle of light the more suppressed the problems are. This is why Fuji has ensured that the last element of the lens is positioned as close to the sensor as possible. It also helps overcome the problem of vignetting at the corners.
The FUJINON XF18mmF2 R lens has a very close focusing distance of 0.6’ (0.18 meters) which gives it a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.14x. Most of Fujinon lenses come with a lens hood which spares you from buying one separately.
The FUJINON XF18mmF2 R has a total of 8 lens elements including 2 aspherical elements arranged in 7 groups. 7 rounded blades make up the diaphragm of the lens. The weight of the lens is 116 grams and it takes a filter of 52mm.
Sample Images by FUJINON XF 18mm f/2 R on Flickr
Product Images
FUJINON XF 18mm f/2 R Lens Specifications
| Type | XF18mmF2 R |
|---|---|
| Construction | 8 elements in 7 groups (includes 2 aspherical elements) |
| Focal length (35mm format equivalent) |
f=18mm (27mm) |
| Angle of view | 76.5° |
| Maximum aperture | F2.0 |
| Minimum aperture | F16 |
| Aperture control |
|
| Focus range | Approx. 18cm – ∞ |
| Max. magnification | 0.14x |
| External dimensions | ø64.5mm x 40.6mm |
| Wt (excluding caps and hoods) |
Approx. 116g |
| Filter size | ø52mm |
More Info
@ Fujifilm
Purchase options
FUJINON XF 18mm F2 R available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Fujifilm Finepix X100
Product Summary
- Model name: Finepix X100
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Key features
- 12.3 megapixels APS-C CMOS sensor
- New EXR Processor at the heart of the image processing system
- Retro rangefinder camera looks
- Hybrid viewfinder
- Compact fixed lens body design with analogue dials for aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation adjustments and a electronically coupled manual focusing ring.
- Built in flash
- 2.8” LCD screen with 460,000 dots resolution
- 720p video recording
Overview
The FinePix X100 created quite a buzz when it launched back in 2010. In fact it brought back the memories of a retro range-finder looks combined well in a compact fixed lens body packing the refinements of optical and technological progress the camera world has seen in the last few decades. It is most definitely a collector’s camera, serving only the needs of a connoisseur looking for retro-looks and the functionalities of an excellent hybrid viewfinder in a fixed lens body. Let’s delve into the specifications of the X100 and it performance in real world to learn more about it.
Features explained
The sensor and the image processing system
Fuji has bundled the X100’s APS-C sensor with a new EXR Processor and their proprietary HR (High Resolution technology), DR (Wide Dynamic Range Technology) and SN (High sensitivity & low noise) technologies. The result is a much improved sharp performance, better low light performance and wider dynamic range in the photos (at least as Fuji claims it to be). In real life the low light performance is quite good.
The hybrid viewfinder
When launched the X100 featured the world’s first hybrid viewfinder which interpolated an optical viewfinder and an electronic one on top of each other. There is a small level at the front which controls whether you want to see the optical or the electronic view finder. The optical viewfinder can switch to a electronic mode for giving you the playback option. Select that option and once you have taken a picture the playback option shows you what you have captured. The electronic viewfinder has a 1,440,000 dot resolution and offers 100% coverage. Since the corresponding viewfinder range of the OVF is 90% there is always a visual jerk when the viewfinder switches from optical to manual as more of the frame is covered.
The LCD screen
The smallish 2.8” LCD monitor has a resolution of 460,000 dots and 100% frame coverage.
Continuous shooting speed
The X100 shoots at a continuous high of 5 fps. Additionally one set it to continuous low and it would shoot at 3 fps. The main advantage of using the X100 is its fast auto-focusing capability that makes it possible to keep shooting without having to wait for the camera to do its post processing or waiting for the buffer to write on the card. However please note that the experience has been entirely shooting on JPEG. RAW formats do take a considerable amount of time to process.
Videos & stills
The X100 shoots both RAW (RAF formats) and JPEG and can also be used to shoot both simultaneously. At 3:2 resolution it shoots 4288 x 2848 pixels resolution. It also shoots 720p HD videos in H.264 MOV format while recording stereo sound via the built-in stereo mic.
Auto-focusing
The impressive feature of the X100 is its auto-focusing (single). It is by far one of the best compact cameras with such great AF-S performance. This is particularly effective when it comes to shooting fast moving subjects, kids, pets, cars and anything which is mobile. The X100 unlike a rangefinder and a DSLR is not plagued by focus-shift problems. The information is fed to the system via the sensor and as such the whole system is simple, quick and accurate. However the AF-C feature of the camera is not that great. Just as its more illustrious brother the X-Pro 1 the X100 does not perform very well when it comes to motion tracking in AF-C mode. There is a manual focusing ring on the X100 as well but it is very slow to respond, making it almost unusable in real life situations.
Storage
The X100 comes with a built-in memory of about 20MB. Impractical for any type of shooting one have to depend on its compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards in order to shoot and store images.
ISO
The X100 is sensitive from ISO 200 through 6400. However it can be bumped to 100-12800 on expanded mode. The large f/2 built-in lens does help the fact that it can take decent shots in low light conditions.
Pop-up flash
The built-in flash of the X100 has a guide number of 4.5 (m, ISO 100). It has an effective range of 50 cm – 9 m. The best thing about the flash is it ability to fill in the shadows even in the trickiest of lighting conditions. While in direct sunlight it does a great job, it is also quite good when used in ambient light.
What are missing / wish list
The X100 is not something if you want a fast continuous auto-focusing. If you love shooting videos, then the lack of the quick continuous AF will most definitely ruin your video experience. Also it does not shoot full HD, only 720p HD. The X100 also does not have the near life like color reproduction. As such when shooting flowers, landscape you will always be left wanting that the camera does not create the same color accuracy. Additionally there are no options to shoot compressed RAW. Only 19 megabytes bulky RAF files are possible to be shot.
Similar products
The X100 is in fact a range-finder styled fixed-lens compact camera. It is the first camera that featured a hybrid viewfinder. It definitely can be compared with a Leica, especially with a Leica M9. However when we compare the prices of the two the X100 costs almost ten times less than the Leica M. Another Leica model the X1 can be looked into by discerning buyers. It is also a great camera retailing at $2000 or thereabouts.
Should I buy it?
If you need great controls over your photographs, sharp images and vibrant colors, a DSLR such as a Canon EOS M or a Nikon D3200 can be a better choice. The interface of the X100 can be quite confusing for amateur and even professional photographers. Being a fixed lens of f/2 wide aperture, the X100 definitely is less tweaking and more to do with point and shooting. If you’re definitely interested in a light weight point and shoot at around $1200 then this is something that you can definitely look into. But if you’re not afraid to carry a bulkier camera then a DSLR is a better buy for sharp vibrant images and full HD videos.
Sample Images by Finepix X100 on Flickr
Product Images
Finepix X100 Specifications
| Model | FinePix X100 |
|---|---|
| Effective pixels |
12.3 million pixels |
| Image sensor | 23.6mm x 15.8mm (APS-C) CMOS with primary color filter |
| Storage media |
|
| File format |
|
| Recorded pixels |
|
| Lens |
|
| Aperture | F2-F16 1/3EV step (controlled with 9-blade aperture diaphragm) |
| Focus distance (from lens surface) |
|
| Sensitivity | Equivalent to ISO 200 – 6400 (Standard Output Sensitivity) Extended output sensitivity equivalent ISO 100 or 12800 ISO AUTO Control available |
| Exposure control | TTL 256-zones metering, Multi / Spot / Average |
| Exposure mode | Programmed AE, Shutter priority AE, Aperture priority AE, Manual exposure |
| Exposure compensation | -2.0EV – +2.0EV 1/3EV step |
| Shutter speed (with mechanical shutter) |
(P mode) 1/4 sec. to 1/4000* sec., (All other modes) 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec. Bulb (max.60min.)
|
| Continuous shooting | Up to 10 /JPEG Up to 8 /RAW or RAW+JPEG 5 / 3 fps selectable |
| Auto bracketing | AE Bracketing (±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV) Film Simulation Bracketing (PROVIA / STANDARD, Velvia / VIVID, ASTIA / SOFT) Dynamic Range Bracketing (100%, 200%, 400%) ISO sensitivity Bracketing (±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV) |
| Focus |
|
| White balance | Automatic scene recognition
|
| Self-timer | Approx. 10sec. / 2sec. Delay |
| Flash | Auto flash (super intelligent flash) Effective range : (ISO 1600) approx. 50cm – 9m / 1.6ft. – 29.5.ft. |
| Flash modes | Red-eye removal OFF : Auto, Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Slow Synchro. Red-eye removal ON : Red-eye Reduction Auto, Red-eye Reduction & Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Red-eye Reduction & Slow Synchro. |
| Hot shoe | Yes (dedicated TTL Flash compatible) |
| Viewfinder |
|
| LCD | 2.8-inch, approx. 460,000dots, TFT color LCD monitor (Approx. 100% coverage) |
| Movie recording | 1280 x 720 pixels (24frames / sec.) with stereo sound |
| Photography functions | Select custom setting, Motion panorama, Color space, Film simulation, Auto red-eye removal, Framing guideline, Frame No. memory, Histogram display, Preview depth of focus, Focus check, Electronic level, One-touch RAW |
| Playback functions | RAW conversing, Image rotate, Photobook assist, Erase selected frames, image search, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Slide show, Mark for upload, Protect, Crop, Resize, Panorama, Favorites |
| Other functions | PictBridge, Exif Print, 35 languages selection, Time difference, Quick start mode, OVF power save mode, Silent mode, Shutter sound select |
| Terminal |
|
| Power | NP-95 Li-ion battery (included) |
| Physical Dimensions | 126.5(W) x 74.4(H) x 53.9(D) mm / 5.0(W) x 2.9(H) x 2.1(D) in. (Minimum thickness : 31.0mm / 1.2in.) |
| Wt | Approx. 445g / 15.7oz. (including battery and memory card) Approx. 405g / 14.3oz. (excluding accessories, battery and memory card) |
| Operating Temp | 0°C – 40°C |
| Operating Environment | 10% – 80% (no condensation) |
| Guide to the number of available frames for battery operation | Approx. 300frames |
| Starting up period | Approx. 2.2sec. ( Approx 0.7sec at QUICK START mode)*4 |
| Included Accessories | Li-ion battery NP-95 Battery charger BC-65N Sholder strap USB cable for the FinePix X100 Lens cap Metal strap clip Protective cover Clip attaching tool CD-ROM (Viewer software, Raw File Converter etc. *5) Owner’s manual |
| Optional accessories | Li-ion battery NP-95 Battery charger BC-65S / BC-65N Leather case LC-X100 Lens hood LH-X100 Adapter ring AR-X100 Shoe mount flash EF-X20 / EF-20 / EF-42 |
More Info
Purchase options
Finepix X100 available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Fujifilm X10
Product Summary
- Model name: Fujifilm X10
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Key features
- 12 megapixels 1/2.3” EXR CMOS sensor
- Focal length range of 28-112mm (on a 35mm format equivalent)
- 2.8” LCD monitor with 460,000 dots resolution
- Continuous burst rate of 7 fps in full resolution
- Ability to shoot RAW and process them in camera
Features explained
The Fujifilm X10 is a Compact Point & Shoot digital camera from Fujifilm. It has a smaller 1/2.3” sensor and a fixed 28-112 (in 35mm format equivalent) lens.
The sensor and the image processing system
The X10 is powered by a 12 megapixels 1/2.3” EXR CMOS sensor. For a small sensor of this size, there are always going to be issues about its low light performance.
The viewfinder and the LCD screen
The X10 has a small tunnel-type optical viewfinder with no graticule superimposed LCD. Those who have tested the X100 will immediately put the X10 down if the comparison is only on the basis of the viewfinder. In fact so disappointing the 85% coverage of this small tunnel is that it can be a big negative point if you were genuinely interested in buying it. Additionally the X10 also has a fixed 2.8” LCD screen which boasts a 460,000 dots resolution display. Nothing out of the ordinary if you compare the more standard 3” LCD monitors with 920,000 dots resolution that are abound these days.
The lens
The X10 has a built-in Fujinon Aspherical lens with 7.1-28.4mm (28-112mm on a 35mm format equivalent) focal length range (optical zoom of 4x). The lens has a wide f/2 maximum aperture and stops down to f/2.8 when fully zoomed in. The X10 lens comes with Fuji’s optical image stabilization technology for steadier shots when hand-held.
Continuous shooting speed
The X10 has a continuous shooting speed of 10 fps.
Videos & stills
The X10 shoots large JPEGs at 4000 x 3000 pixels. It can also shoot RAW (RAF formats). It also shoots full HD videos in 30 fps. Movie format is encoded in H.264 while stereo sound is recorded using the built-in mic.
Film simulation modes
The X10 is certainly a fun camera to shoot with. As we will see time and again, it is not what one would normally associate with a serious photographer, but one with a snap-happy enthusiast. It comes with 8 film simulation modes including Velvia, Monochrome +R, Monochrome +G, Astia, Monochrome +Y, Sepia, B & W and Standard. One can really show a lot of creativity while shooting and also during post production (as these filters are available in in-camera post-production as well).
Storage
The X10 is compliant with SD/SDHC/ SDXC memory cards.
ISO
The normal ISO range of the camera is 100-3200. It can also shoot at up to 12800 when expanded.
Pop-up flash
The X10 comes with a built-in flash which has a range of 9 meters. For those needing a bit more light than the pop-up flash a hot-shoe is available on the X10 for using an external flashgun.
What are missing / wish list
The very small and dark optical viewfinder is not exactly going to light too many fires when it comes to passionate admirers. Photographers looking for a genuine optical viewfinder will find the 85% coverage of this tunnel-type VF to be more than just disappointing. The X100 to which the X10 has been sometimes compared to is miles ahead with its bright hybrid viewfinder. This is a major USP of the X100 and something that the X10 could have really done with.
Additionally if you want to turn on the camera you will be surprised to notice that there is no power button! You will have to either rotate the zoom ring or press the play button in order to wake up the X10 from its slumber.
Similar products
The Canon PowerShot S110 is a good camera that one can look into. It has a similar 12.1 megapixels CMOS sensor, albeit a slightly bigger one at 1/1.7”, a slightly better zoom range at 24-120mm (5x) and the latest DIGIC 5 image processing system which is better in terms of noise reduction. Apart from the slightly bigger sensor there is an on-chip noise cancellation system as well plus the presence of microlenses over the sensor area that assists in the overall amount of light gathered by the camera. Needless to say more light means better picture.
Should I buy it?
Retailing at $600 this is certainly a pricy compact. It does not have many of the benefits that the more illustrious X100 has and as such comparisons between the two may sometime appear futile. If you have the budget of $600 then certainly you can look into a few entry level DSLRs with bigger APS-C sensors with much better manual controls and definitely better image quality. If not and you’re looking for a more compact model then definitely look at the X100 as a far better option. If one can spare a bit more than the Fujifilm XE-1 is one camera that should look into.
Sample Images by Fujifilm X10 on Flickr
Product Images
Fujifilm X10 Specifications
| Model | FUJIFILM X10 |
|---|---|
| Effective pixels |
12.0 million pixels |
| Image sensor Type | 2/3-inch EXR CMOS with primary color filter |
| Storage media |
|
| File format |
|
| Recorded pixels | L : (4:3) 4000 x 3000 / (3:2) 4000 x 2664 / (16:9) 4000 x 2248 / (1:1) 2992 x 2992 M : (4:3) 2816 x 2112 / (3:2) 2816 x 1864 / (16:9) 2816 x 1584 / (1:1) 2112 x 2112 S : (4:3) 2048 x 1536 / (3:2) 2048 x 1360 / (16:9) 1920 x 1080 / (1:1) 1536 x 1536<Motion Panorama> 360° Vertical 11520 x 1624 Horizontal 11520 x 1080 180° Vertical 5760 x 1624 Horizontal 5760 x 1080 120° Vertical 3840 x 1624 Horizontal 3840 x 1080 |
| Lens |
|
| Digital zoom | Intelligent digital zoom approx. 2x (up to 8 x when combined with optical zoom) |
| Aperture | F2.0-F11(Wide) F2.8-F11(Telephoto) 1/3EV step (controlled 7-blade aperture diaphragm) |
| Focus distance (from lens surface) |
|
| Sensitivity | Auto / Equivalent to ISO 100 / 200 / 250 / 320 / 400 / 500 / 640 / 800 / 1000 / 1250 / 1600 / 2000 / 2500 / 3200 / 4000* / 5000* / 6400* / 12800* (Standard Output Sensitivity)
|
| Exposure control | TTL 256-zones metering, Multi / Spot / Average |
| Exposure mode | Programmed AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE, Manual |
| Shooting modes |
|
| Image stabilizer | Lens shift type |
| Face detection | Yes |
| Exposure compensation | -2.0EV – +2.0EV 1/3EV step |
| Shutter speed | (Auto mode) 1/4 sec. to 1/4000* sec., (All other modes) 30 sec. to 1/4000* sec. * 1/4000 sec. at small aperture, 1/1000 sec. at full aperture |
| Continuous shooting |
|
| Auto bracketing | AE Bracketing : ±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV Film Simulation Bracketing : PROVIA / STANDARD, Velvia / VIVID, ASTIA / SOFT Dynamic Range Bracketing : 100%, 200%, 400% ISO Sensitivity Bracketing : ±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV |
| Focus |
|
| White balance | Automatic scene recognition Preset : Fine, Shade, Fluorescent light (Daylight), Fluorescent light (Warm White), Fluorescent light (Cool White), Incandescent light, Underwater, Custom, Color temperature selection |
| Self-timer | 10 sec. / 2 sec. delay |
| Flash | Auto flash (super intelligent flash) Effective range : (ISO AUTO (800)) Wide : Approx. 30 cm – 7.0 m / 0.9 ft. – 22.9 ft. Telephoto : Approx. 50 cm – 5.0 m / 1.6 ft. – 16.4 ft. |
| Flash modes | Red-eye removal OFF : Auto, Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Slow Synchro. Red-eye removal ON : Red-eye Reduction Auto, Red-eye Reduction & Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Red-eye Reduction & Slow Synchro. |
| Hot shoe | Yes |
| Viewfinder | Optical zoom viewfinder Approx. 85% coverage Diopter adjustment : -3.5 – +1.5 m-1(dpt) |
| LCD monitor | 2.8-inch, approx. 460,000 dots, TFT color LCD monitor, approx. 100% coverage |
| Movie recording | 1920 x 1080 pixels / 1280 x 720 pixels / 640 x 480 pixels (30 frames / sec.) with stereo sound Optical zoom (manual) can be used. |
| Photography functions | EXR mode (EXR Auto / Resolution priority / High ISO & Low noise priority / Dynamic range priority), Face recognition, Face Detection, Auto red-eye removal, Film simulation, Framing guideline, Frame No. memory, Histogram display, Best frame capture, Advanced mode (Advanced filter*, Motion panorama360, Pro focus, Pro low light), High Speed Movie (70 / 120 / 200 frames/sec.), Electronic level, Advanced Anti Blur, Color Space
|
| Playback functions | Face Detection, Auto red-eye removal, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Protect, Crop, Resize, Slide show, Image rotate, Voice memo, Histogram display, Exposure warning, Photobook assist, Image search, Favorites, Mark for upload, Panorama, Erase selected frames, RAW conversing |
| Other functions | PictBridge, Exif Print, 35 Languages, Time difference, Silent mode |
| Terminal |
|
| Power | NP-50 Li-ion battery (included) CP-50 with AC power adapter AC-5VX (sold separately) |
| Dimensions | 117.0(W) x 69.6(H) x 56.8(D) mm / 4.6(W) x 2.7(H) x 2.2(D) in. |
| Weight | Approx. 350 g / 12.3 oz. (including battery and memory card) Approx. 330 g / 11.6 oz. (excluding battery and memory card) |
| Operating Temp | 0°C – 40°C |
| Operating Humidity | 10% – 80% (no condensation) |
| Guide to the number of available frames for battery operation | approx. 270 frames (LCD : ON, AUTO mode) CIPA standard approx. 640 frames (LCD : OFF, AUTO mode)*
|
| Included Accessories | Li-ion battery NP-50 Battery charger BC-45W Shoulder strap Lens cap USB cable CD-ROM Owner’s manual |
| Optional accessories | Li-ion battery NP-50 Battery charger BC-45W A / V cable AV-C1 Lens hood LH-X10 Leather case LC-X10 Shoe Mount Flash EF-X20 / EF-42 / EF-20 AC power adapter AC-5VX DC coupler CP-50 |
More Info
Purchase options
Fujifilm X10 available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Zeiss Distagon T* 2,8/15 and Apo Sonnar T* 2/135 lenses delivery from December 2012
Industry customers benefit from exceptional image quality with the Distagon T* 2.8/15 and the Apo Sonnar T* 2/135
OBERKOCHEN, GERMANY – 6 November 2012Carl Zeiss has two new lenses in its line: the new Distagon T* 2,8/15 super-wide angle lens is already on the market, and the Apo Sonnar T* 2/135 will be delivered from December onwards. Both lenses are available with F mount (ZF.2), EF mount (ZE) and M42 mount (Z-M42-I) and are designed for use in creative photography as well as industrial applications.
The Distagon T* 2,8/15 features an extra large field angle of 110° and speed of 1:2.8. Through its extremely large field angle, the lens allows either foreground or background emphasis. Because the super wide angle also enables focusing on details close in, the exaggerated graduation of proportions results in additional impression of depth with outstanding definition throughout the picture – from close-in to infinity. With other super-wide angle lenses, aberrations such as distortion can easily occur. The Distagon T* 2,8/15 balances these out and delivers naturally proportioned pictures. “With the high-speed Distagon T* 2,8/15, Carl Zeiss sets the standard in super wide-angle photography,” says Dr. Michael Pollmann, Consumer Lenses Program Manager in the Camera Lens Division of Carl Zeiss AG.
With its 135 millimeter focal length, the Apo Sonnar T* 2/135 is the longest tele lens in the SLR lens range. Anyone who wishes to capture detailed images from long distances is on the right track with the Apo Sonnar T* 2/135. At any aperture, it delivers impressive results – brilliant detail, high contrast and maximum definition. A special, variable arrangement of the lens elements ensures excellent image quality across the entire focusing range from 0.8 m to infinity. As it is an apochromatic lens, chromatic aberrations are corrected by lens elements made of special types of glass with exceptional partial dispersion. Therefore, the chromatic aberrations are far below the limits otherwise defined.
Applications in Photogrammetry
The robust all-metal body of both the Distagon T* 2,8/15 and the Apo Sonnar T* 2/135 is designed for extra-long service life. Thus, both are optimally suitable for industry customers. The German Aerospace Center (DLR), among others, uses an SLR lens from Carl Zeiss in an airborne system for the monitoring of traffic and potential hazards. This allows razor sharp images to be conveyed almost in real-time – in the case of a major event, for example – which benefits security forces and other groups. Due to its resistance and performance, the ZEISS lens also withstands adverse weather conditions. “Carl Zeiss enjoys a very good reputation in the area of photogrammetry. We were well-advised. If we set the lenses to infinity, they focus on infinity. This is exactly what we wanted,” says Project Manager Dr. Frank Kurz from the Remote Sensing Technology Institute at the DLR.
Like with all other SLR lenses of the ZE and ZF.2 series, the Carl Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating and the advanced treatment of the lens edges with special dark black lacquers ensure resistance to reflections and stray light.
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Transcend Announced Wi-Fi SD Memory Card
Set Your Photos Free with Transcend’s Wi-Fi SD Memory Card
Transcend Information, Inc. (Transcend®), a worldwide leader in storage and multimedia products, today proudly announced the release of its exciting new Wi-Fi SD memory card that instantly adds wireless capability to an SDHC-compatible digital camera. With the Wi-Fi SD card and the exclusive Wi-Fi SD App, users can take advantage of the high resolution of their digital camera and the versatility of their smartphone or tablet to easily share beautifully shot photos to the world as soon as they are taken.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Wi-Fi SD card operates in two modes: Direct Share or Internet Mode. Ideal for use on outdoor photo shoots and vacations, Direct Share Mode is automatically activated as soon as the camera is powered on, allowing peer-to-peer connections between camera and mobile device in any location. Thanks to the convenient Wi-Fi SD App, users can quickly switch to Internet Mode, which allows the Wi-Fi SD card to connect to a nearby Internet hotspot or even use the personal hotspot feature of smartphones and tablets. When connected via Internet Mode, users can browse and download photos from the Wi-Fi SD card and instantly email to friends or upload to their social network profile.
Free Wi-Fi SD App
Developed specifically for iOS (iPhone/iPad/iPod touch) and Android devices, the free-to-download Wi-Fi SD App automatically organizes Wi-Fi SD card data into intuitive categories. The convenient, easy-to-use design of the App allows users to effortlessly browse photos, watch videos, download content, and share via Facebook or email. Besides smartphones and tablets, Wi-Fi-enabled desktop computers and notebooks can access media with a similarly user-friendly interface by using a web browser.
Instant Shoot & View
The Wi-Fi SD App’s Shoot & View feature takes advantage of the advanced capabilities of digital cameras and the large screen of mobile devices for a more efficient post-production process. First, simply capture a stunningly detailed picture using a high-megapixel camera, which then appears immediately on the smartphone or tablet. Next, download the image to local memory and manipulate in creative ways using today’s sophisticated photo editing apps before sharing with friends and family.
Superior Speed & Capacity
Featuring the SDHC Class 10 speed rating, Transcend Wi-Fi SD cards provide higher transfer speeds and greater stability than currently available Class 6 cards. Combining excellent performance with a generous 16GB (US$69) or 32GB (US$99) capacity, each Wi-Fi SD card provides plenty of space and support for extremely high-resolution digital masterpieces.
Adobe Lightroom 4.3 RC and Camera Raw 7.3 RC Announced
This release of Lightroom 4.3 is prerelease software and is designed for evaluation purposes only. The software contained within the installer is not final; but many portions of the technology are fully implemented and ready for you to try and discuss.
Bugs Corrected in the Lightroom 4.3 Release Candidate
- Unable to upload a large panorama to Adobe Revel via the Revel Publish Plugin
- Unable to add a second photo to a page layout in a Book. This only occurred when the “Show Unused Photos” filter is selected in the filmstrip.
- A photo can be flagged as both a “Pick” and “Reject” at the same time when using the Toolbar to apply flags
- Using multiple fonts within the same text cell inside a Book can sometimes cause Lightroom to crash
- Exposure becomes the active adjustment slider in the Basic panel (within Develop) when moving from image to image
- Customers using Photoshop Elements 11 were unable to upgrade their catalogs in Lightroom 4
- Custom Cell padding options in the Book Module reset in between Lightroom sessions
- 1080p video files shot on iPhone 4S flicker on replay
- Leaving the Book Module after using multiple text colors in the same text cell can sometimes cause the book to be lost.
New Camera Support in Lightroom 4.3 Release Candidates
- Canon PowerShot S110
- Canon PowerShot G15
- Canon PowerShot SX50 HS
- Casio Exilim EX-ZR1000
- Casio Exilim EX-FC300S
- Nikon D600
- Olympus PEN E-PL5
- Olympus PEN E-PM2
- Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 iHS
- Panasonic DMC-GH3
- Pentax K-5 II
- Pentax K-5 IIs
- Pentax Q10
New Camera Support in the Camera Raw 7.3 Release Candidate
- Canon PowerShot S110
- Canon PowerShot G15
- Canon PowerShot SX50 HS
- Casio Exilim EX-ZR1000
- Casio Exilim EX-FC300S
- Nikon D600
- Olympus PEN E-PL5
- Olympus PEN E-PM2
- Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 iHS
- Panasonic DMC-GH3
- Pentax K-5 II
- Pentax K-5 IIs
- Pentax Q10
New Lens Profile Support in the Camera Raw 7.2 Release Candidate
- Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
- LEICA APO-ELMARIT-R 180 mm f/2.8
- LEICA APO-MACRO-ELMARIT-R 100 mm f/2.8
- LEICA APO-SUMMICRON-R 90 mm f/2 ASPH
- LEICA APO-SUMMICRON-R 180 mm f/2
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 280 mm f/2.8
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 280 mm f/4
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 400 mm f/2.8
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 400 mm f/4
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 560 mm f/4
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 560 mm f/5.6
- LEICA APO-TELYT-R 800 mm f/5.6
- LEICA ELMARIT-R 19 mm f/2.8
- LEICA ELMARIT-R 28 mm f/2.8
- LEICA MACRO-ELMARIT-R 60 mm f/2.8
- LEICA SUMMICRON-R 35 mm f/2
- LEICA SUMMICRON-R 50 mm f/2
- LEICA SUMMILUX-R 35 mm f/1.4
- LEICA SUMMILUX-R 50 mm f/1.4
- LEICA SUMMILUX-R 80 mm f/1.4
- Leica VARIO-ELMARIT-R 28-90 mm f/2,8-4,5 ASPH
- Leica VARIO-ELMAR-R 80-200 mm f/4
- Leica VARIO-ELMAR-R 35-70 mm f/4
- Leica VARIO-ELMAR-R 21-35 mm f/3,5-4 ASPH
- Leica VARIO-APO-ELMARIT-R 70-180 mm f/2.8
- PENTAX 06 Telephoto Zoom
These items have been FIXED in Camera Raw 7.3 Release Candidate:
- The Windows taskbar appeared on top of the ACR window when operating in Full Screen mode. (Windows 8 only)
- Unable to open TIFF files in Photoshop from Bridge. Browsing TIFF images caused Bridge to crash.
Download Here: Lightroom 4.3 Release Candidate | Camera Raw 7.3 Release Candidate
Tamron Lens Users to get Free RAW Processing Software – SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0
TAMRON PROVIDES FREE SOFTWARE WITH RAW IMAGE DEVELOPMENT PROCESSING FOR TAMRON’S SP LENSES
“SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 for Tamron” produced by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory
November 6, 2012, Saitama, Japan – Tamron Co., Ltd., a leading manufacturer of optical equipment, will start providing software free of charge for Tamron’s SP series lenses that have been on the market since 2012. The software is based on the RAW image development processing software “SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0,” produced by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory.
Features of SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 for Tamron
The SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 software can develop high-quality images from RAW data, incorporating taste adjustments such as white balance, color, sharpness and tone curve recorded by digital cameras.
The SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 for Tamron provides a range of functions, in addition to the basic adjustment capabilities, such as correcting aberrations (chromatic aberrations of magnification, distortion, peripheral light fall-off), based on the optical data. Used in tandem with Tamron’s SP series lenses – renowned for their high-depiction capability – this advanced technology efficiently produces images that meet photographers’ most exacting demands.
Lens compatibility
Compatible with the SP70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009) and the SP90mm F/2.8 Di Macro1:1 VC USD (Model F004), which is scheduled to be on the market on November 30. Lens data for the SP series to be marketed in the future will be released eventually. The product is also compatible with the SP24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A007), which was released in April this year. SP lenses marketed before March 2012 are not compatible with this software.
Languages – Available in 10 languages
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 for Tamron can operate in the following languages: Japanese, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Chinese (traditional Chinese/simplified Chinese) and Korean.
OS Compatibility
Windows 8/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS X 10.5-10.8 /PowerPC not supported.
Software Distribution
Software distribution will start on November 30 at this Download Site(http://www.tamron.com/en/download/silkypix/)
Inquiries
Please note: For inquiries concerning SILKYPIX software, contact Ichikawa Soft Laboratory athttp://www.silkypix.com Upgrades in SILKYPIX for new cameras will be carried out according to Ichikawa Soft Laboratory’s schedule.
Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens
Product summary
- Model name: Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM
- Release date: November 5, 2012
- Availability: Dec 2012
- Price: $849.99
- Available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
EF 35mm f/2 IS USM key features:
- Fixed prime 35mm wide angle lens
- 4 stop Image Stabilizer
- Fast f/2 minimum aperture
- Compact size and design
- Circular aperture
Features
The new EF 35mm f/2 IS USM is designed to deliver outstanding flexibility, allowing photographers to create an image even broader range of scenes and subjects in wide-angle. This is the Canon’s first-ever 35mm prime to have optical Image Stabilizer technology in a compact and lightweight body to offer outstanding performance. The 35mm focal length also provides the ability to capture everything from close-up portraits to wide-angle landscapes, making it an ideal companion for travel or general reportage photography.
Its advanced specification provides photographers a great flexibility to shoot a wider-range of scenes and subjects. It’s bright, fixed f/2 aperture also permits photographers to add a shallow depth of field, and IS offers a 4-stop light advantage to capture of blur-free images in low light situations when shooting handheld. Canon also added Intelligent detection of panning motion, with Panning IS mode automatically selected to enable photographers to capture movement with greater accuracy.
To deliver exceptional image quality, the EF 35mm f/2 IS USM also features an aspherical glass-moulded (GMo) element positioned at the rear of the optical path to combat aberration for the entire optical system. Additionally, each individual element features optimised Super Spectra coatings to minimize ghosting and flare. This ensures excellent colour balance with minimal use for post processing. This lens also incorporates a ring-type USM and high performance CPU to provide rapid AF performance, with full-time manual focus to retain maximum control.
Sample images on flickr
Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS Specifications
| Angle of view | H:63°, V:38°, D:54° |
| Construction (elements/groups) | 10/8 |
| No. of diaphragm blades | 8 |
| Min aperture | 22 |
| Closest focussing distance (m) | 0.24 |
| Max magnification (x) | 0.24 |
| Distance Information | Provided |
| Image stabilizer | 4 stops |
| AF Motor | Ring USM¹ |
| Filter Size (mm) | 67 |
| Max. diameter x length (mm) | 77.9x 62.6 |
| Weight (g) | 335 |
| Lens Cap | E-67 II |
| Lens hood | EW-72 |
| Lens case/pouch | LP1116 |
| Magnification Extension Tube EF12 II | 0.60-0.36 |
| Magnification Extension Tube EF25 II | 1.04-0.79 |
| Extender Compatiblity | Not compatible |
Additional Info
Additional Images
Purchase options
EF 35mm f/2 IS USM available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens
Product Summary
- Model name: Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM
- Release Date: November 5, 2012
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : Full Frame
- Mounts: Canon EF
- Color: Black
- Availability: Dec 2012
- Price: $1,499.00
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Key features:
- High image quality 24-70mm lens with f/4 aperture
- Light weight design
- Built in IS
- Macro function
- Dust / moisture resistant
Overview
The new Professional EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is a high performance, high flexibility, Hybrid IS Lens. The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is the latest addition to Canon’s L-series lens line. With this lens Canon expanded the range of standard zoom EF lenses available for both professional and amateur photographers. Intended for reportage and wedding photography, it blends a very popular focal range with a high quality L-series lens design, ensures consistently sharp, professional quality stills in different situations. In addition, a new macro function, allowing it to shoot at a maximum magnification of 0.7x, that enables photographers not to carry a dedicated macro lens.
Its optical design incorporates two aspherical elements alongside two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) lenses, each with optimised Super Spectra Coatings to reduce chromatic aberration, colour blurring and flare. Addition of constant f/4 aperture capability throughout the zoom range benefits photographers with exceptional creative control, achieving blurring of the background of a scene at all focal lengths. A nine-blade circular iris also helps photographers to make their main subjects stand out, delivering beautiful out of focus bokeh effects in the background blur to add artistic environment to a shot.
The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM also features a newly designed IS system to deliver blur-free images throughout the zoom range. This new optical IS offers a 4-stop light advantage. It’s Hybrid IS effectively manages angular and shift shake during macro photography for stable close ups.
Ultra fast AF is achieved by a small, ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM). In combination with a high-performance CPU and advanced AF algorithms, USM technology enables precise silent and super responsive autofocusing. Full-time manual focusing also provides manual adjustments can be made even when AF is engaged.
The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens incorporates top grade, usability-focused construction, both inside and out. The exterior surface has a high quality leather-texture coating, a revised shape helps ease of use, and the focusing and zoom rings have been optimized for optimal operation. In addition, a dust and drip-proof design is resistant to dust and moisture. A built in lock function prevents lenses from knocks when travelling. The fluorine coating minimises the degree of dust, dirt and fingerprints that adhere to the front and rear lenses to maintain superior image quality. Also check EF 24-70 f/2.8L II.
Sample Images on Flick
EF 24-70mm f/4L IS Specifications
| Angle of view | H:74° – 29°.V: 53° – 19°30′, D:84° – 34° |
| Construction (elements/groups) | 15/12 |
| No. of diaphragm blades | 9 |
| Aperture | 4-22 |
| Closest focussing distance (m) | 0.38(Macro) |
| Max magnification (x) | 0.7(at macro) |
| Distance Information | Provided |
| Image stabilizer | 4 stops |
| AF actuator | Ring USM |
| Dust/moisture resistance* | Yes |
| Filter diameter (mm) | 77 |
| Max. diameter x length (mm) | 83.4 x 93 |
| Weight (g) | 600 |
| Lens Cap | E-77 II |
| Lens hood | EW-83L |
| Lens case/pouch | LP1219 |
| Magnification Extension Tube EF12 II | 0.44-0.18 |
| Magnification Extension Tube EF25 II | 0.72-0.40 |
| Extender Compatiblity | No |
Additional Info
Purchase options
Tamron SP 24-70mm Di VC USD Lens
Product Summary
- Model name: Tamron SP 24-70mm Di VC USD
- Release Date: February 6th, 2012
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : Full Frame / APS-C / Crop Sensor
- Mounts: Canon | Nikon | Fuji | Sony
- Color: Black
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Key Features
- A full-size, high-speed standard zoom with built-in VC ( Vibration Compensation). Even when shooting in low-light conditions with a slow shutter speed to render sharpness, Tamron’s acclaimed VC allows for stable handheld camera work, to more fully enjoy the benefits of this high-speed zoom lens.
- Uses special high-grade glass in the three LD elements, three glass molded aspherical lenses, one hybrid aspherical lens and two XR (Extra Refractive Index) glasses, delivering top-of-the-class quality images suited to this high-grade lens. Using a rounded diaphragm, the lens achieves gorgeous blur effects. This rounded diaphragm retains a nearly circular shape even when taken two stops down from its fully open state.
- Features Tamron proprietary USD ( Ultrasonic Silent Drive) to power a speedy AF drive together with a continuous manual mechanism.
- This high-speed standard zoom lens has a wide-end focal length of 24mm that expands the photographic area.
- The lens adopts the new technology including the latest optical design, VC ( Vibration Compensation) image stabilization and USD ( Ultrasonic Silent Drive), all in a lighter and more compact package.
- Moisture-resistant construction helps prevent water from penetrating the lens.
Overview
Designed for the larger full frame sensors (Tamron uses the acronym Di for lenses which are designed for full frame sensor cameras and can also be used for the smaller APS-C sensor based cameras) the Tamron SP 24-70mm Di VC USD lens is one that has a fast f/2.8 constant aperture across its focal length range of 24-70mm. The 24-70mm is such a wonderful range. It offers a wider reach over both the wide angle and the short tele-range. The Tamron SP 24-70mm offers one of the faster apertures for such an intermediate lens along with their VC (Vibration Control) or image stabilization systems for steady shots. This lens is an everyday go to lens offering enough to capture pets, kids, landscape, group shots, wedding and other moments with élan. If you need one single lens for all your shooting needs, this is something that you can look into.
The lens is from the top of the line SP range from Tamron and the acronym is reserved for the very best from their line-up. It features a ring-type USD (ultra-sonic drive) for silent and quick auto-focusing.
The lens has a total of 9 rounded blades constituting the lens diaphragm. Apart from a wide f/2.8 aperture the lens can go all the way down to f/22. The lens has an angle of view of 84°04’ – 34°21’. The lens has a total of 17 elements arranged in 12 groups. The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 15” which means the lens with a magnification ratio of 1:5. This means though you can do a bit of close-up photography, this is not a macro lens in the true sense of the word.
Details Features
VC ( Vibration Compensation)
VC ( Vibration Compensation) is Tamron’s proprietary image stabilization system. Tamron’s VC is a three-coil system, whereby three driving coils activate the shake-compensating VC lens group electromagnetically via three steel balls. The VC lens elements are held in place only by contact with the steel balls, achieving smooth movement with little friction. This provides a stable viewfinder image with excellent tracking performance. And as the VC lens may be moved in parallel using only the motorized control, the mechanical structure has been simplified, enabling the creation of a more compact lens.
New VC system (moving coil method)
Tamron’s original VC image stabilization mechanism utilized a moving magnet system whereby a heavy magnet was positioned near the moving VC lens element. In the new VC unit the positions of the magnet and the coil are reversed, because of this the VC optical lens element is attached to the coil. The new VC mechanism employs a moving coil mechanism with a lightweight coil, and the lighter coil reduces the load on the drive system. Thus, the lighter, more compact new VC unit contributes to the lens’s overall light weight and compact size.
Because the 24-70 mm F/2.8 Di VC USD is a high-speed zoom lens with maximum aperture of F/2.8, its VC system must drive a lens that is larger and heavier than other zooms. Therefore, the shape, size and layout of the drive coils are all designed to obtain sufficient thrust. The result is a full-size, high-speed zoom that provides the same high level of compensation effect.
About the ultrasonic motor
In the ultrasonic motor, a piezoelectric element arranged in a ring formation generates ultrasonic vibrations in a metallic ring stator, and the vibration energy is used to rotate a metallic ring rotor that is attached to the stator. The rotation energy is in turn transferred from the metallic ring rotor to operate the focus lens.
Images by Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 VC on Flickr
Product Images
Tamron SP 24-70mm Di VC USD Specifications
| Lens Construction | 12 Groups/ 17 Elements |
| Angle of view | 84°04′ -34°21′ (for full frame 35mm format cameras) 60°20′ -22°33′ (for APS-C format cameras) |
| Max Aperture | F/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | F/22 |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 0.38m (15.0 in) |
| Max Magnification | 1:5 (at f=70mm: MFD 0.38m) |
| No. of Diaphragm Blades | 9 (rounded diaphragm) |
| Filter Size | 82mm |
| Dimensions (L x D) | 4.3″ x 3.5″ (108.5 x 88.2mm) |
| Wt | 29.1 ox / 825g |
Additional Info
Purchase options
Tamron SP 24-70mm Di VC USD Lens available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Nikon D5200
Product Summary
- Model name: Nikon D5200
- Release Date: November 6, 2012
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Format : APS-C
- Mounts: Nikon F
- Purchase options: Adorama | Amazon | B&H
What are the new?
The following are the main features of the D5200
- Newly developed 24.1 megapixels APS-C CMOS sensor
- 39-point AF system, that has been taken straight out of the D7000
- EXPEED 3 image processing engine
- ISO sensitivity of 100-6400, further expandable to 12,800
- Built-in HDR mode that uses two images taken at different exposure values and then combined together to create one image with perfect exposure
- Active D-Lighting: Retains details in highlights and shadows for well-balanced images, even if the subject is moving
- D-Movie: Full (1080p) HD movies with smooth (up to 60i/50i) recording and a built-in stereo microphone
- D-Movie AF modes: Live View autofocus works when shooting movie clips, keeping subjects in sharp focus
- In-built stereo-microphone for improved sound quality
- Updated new generation GUI Design
- 16 Scene modes: Automatically adjusts camera settings, including Picture Controls and Active D-Lighting, for optimal results.
- Effects mode – seven effects including Selective Colour and Miniature, which can be applied in pre-shoot, for more creative movies and stills
- Compatible with WR-R10 Wireless Remote transceiver and WR-T10 Wireless Remote transmitter that let you control key camera functions from a distance
- GPS compatible: Records the exact location of the camera when a picture is taken by using the optional GP-1 unit
- NIKKOR lenses: take advantage of Nikon’s legendary NIKKOR lenses and make the most of the camera’s 24-megapixel resolution. Capture photos with vivid colour and striking contrast. Shoot movies with crisp detail or experiment with cinematic effectsAvailable in three colours: black, red and bronze
- Lightweight body (505g)
Detailed Features
Successor to the very popular entry level DX format Nikon DSLR D5100, the D5200 is the fusion between the prosumer model D7000 and the older version that it replaces. It retains many of the features of the older D5100 while gaining quite a few from the D7000. At the price that it has been introduced the D5200 is the direct rival of Canon’s T5i or the EOS 700D.
Nikon D5200 is the latest addition to its mid-range DX-format line-up, designed to bring out your creative expression. Capable of taking beautiful still photos to smooth Full HD movies, this camera let you capture your own unique view of the world. The inspiring Nikon D5200 is ideal for those who have passion for photography and want to explore with the camera’s superior features. The users also can unlock their creative potential with its impressive image and movie quality alongside a versatile vari-angle LCD monitor.
Exceptional image quality Following the D5000 and the D5100, the Nikon D5200, this is the third camera in its series, offers a huge improvement in image-quality. Addition of the 24.1 megapixel DX format CMOS sensor ensures finely detailed images. The new EXPEED 3 image processor efficiently executes high speed operation and colour reproduction, as well as enhanced movie recording. It’s high ISO sensitivity (100-6400 which is extendable to 25600) captures brilliant shots in dark or poorly lit environments as well as producing clear images of fast action photography.
The Nikon D5200 shares the same AF system, metering sensor and scene recognition with the Nikon D7000 series cameras, empowering this camera with high level of performance and enhanced image quality. The highly precise 39-point AF system and nine cross-type sensors delivers razor sharp images by focusing accurately on the subject. With the help of 2,016-pixel RGB metering sensor camera’s Scene Recognition System optimizes exposure, autofocus and white balance quicly before the shutter is released.
Create images from any angle Intelligently designed lightweight Nikon D5200 has a versatile 3 inch (7.5cm) vari-angle LCD provides the ultimate flexibility and freedom to take beautiful shots and movies from virtually any angle. Users can flip, tilt or turn the swivel LCD to get really creative with their angles. In addition, with clear menus and superior ergonomics, making it a pleasure to maneuver and shoot with.
Wireless connectivity By using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, you will be able to Wirelessly transmit images from your camera to an Apple™ or Android™ smart device. It is also possible to control your camera from your smart device remotely to help you take beautiful shots without disturbing your subjects. As a result, for instant reactions you can share images with friends via social networks and email.
HD movies This camera at the flick of a switch, lets you effortlessly alternate between capturing stills and Full HD movies with smooth (up to 60i/50i) recording. With full time servo AF (AF-F) and camera’s three dimensional subject tracking of moving objects, ensures focus of moving objects throughout filming. Adding to that, it also features in-movie editing and the camera’s built-in stereo microphone.
Effect and Scene modes With the Nikon D5200 Effects mode, be even more original. Seven special effects: Selective Colour, Miniature, High and Low Key, Silhouette, Colour Sketch and Night Vision can be applied in real time to images and movies through Live View.As a result you can see what your final creation will look like before you shoot. It’ in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) and D-lighting features helps you to capture detailed images of high-contrast scenes with increasing creative possibilities. Users can also select from 16 different Scene modes, these modes optimize the camera settings, such as shutter speed, ISO and aperture values – to the situation they are shooting. It is a great features for a candit shooters or learners.
The good
The D5200 inherits the 39-point AF system from D7000. Compared to the 11-point AF system of the D5100 this is a big jump. In photographic sense however 11 point should be more than enough as Canon’s trusted 9-point AF system maintained even in the prosumer 60D and the higher end model 6D will tell you.
The D5200 comes with the next generation EXPEED 3 image processing engine. What it means is faster image processing and better low light performance.
The newly designed 24.1 megapixels sensor of the D5200 retains a phenomenal amount of details. You can crop your pictures really tight and yet get nearly the same quality.
A 3” vari-angle LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots and a viewing angle of 170˚.
The Bad
Just like any other cheaper entry level DSLRs from Nikon the D5200 is not blessed with an internal Auto-Focusing motor. What it means is that older lenses (which do not come with a focusing motor) will not work properly. Not properly means the focusing mechanism has to be manually operated. So if you intend to use an old lens be prepared to focus it manually.
The body is light; it can be disconcerting for someone who is used to a heavier prosumer or even a professional model. For some users though, specially the ones who are migrating from a compact Point & Shoot, the weight is perfect, not too light and not too heavy.
Similar Products
Canon rebel T5i/700D with touch screen is the direct competitor of D5200. Although the D7000 is a much advanced DX format DSLR also from Nikon, it is currently available for roughly the same price as the D5200. As such price-wise it is a competitor for the D5200.
Should I buy it?
The D5200 currently retails at the same price that you would get a new D7000. Needless to say if you value your photography and is looking for a great DSLR then D7000 is a better buy, even though it is about a generation older. However the D7000 could be an intimidating tool in the wrong hands and if you prefer a GUI to a set of buttons then pick the D5200 and you will not regret the decision. If you already own an entry level DSLR then the D5200 is not for you. Available at Adorama | Amazon | B&H
Sample images by Nikon D5200 on Flickr
Nikon D5200 specifications
| Body type | Compact SLR |
|---|---|
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
| Other resolutions | 4496 x 3000, 2992 x 2000 |
| Image ratio w:h | 3:2 |
| Effective pixels | 24.1 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 24.7 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Processor | Expeed 3 |
| Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, 100 – 6400 (25600 with boost) |
| White balance presets | 12 |
| Custom white balance | Yes (5) |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Fine, Normal, Basic |
| Optics & Focus | |
| Autofocus |
|
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Digital zoom | No |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 39 |
| Lens mount | Nikon F mount |
| Focal length multiplier | 1.5× |
| Screen / viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Fully articulated |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 921,000 |
| Touch screen | No |
| Screen type | TFT LCD monitor |
| Live view | Yes (With contrast-detect AF, face detection and subject tracking) |
| Viewfinder type | Optical (pentamirror) |
| Viewfinder coverage | 95 % |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.78× |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Exposure modes |
|
| Scene modes |
|
| Built-in flash | Yes (Pop-up) |
| Flash range | 12 m (at ISO 100) |
| External flash | Yes (Hot-shoe) |
| Flash modes | Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow sync, Rear curtain |
| Flash X sync speed | 1/200 sec |
| Drive modes |
|
| Continuous drive | Yes (3, 5 fps) |
| Self-timer | Yes (2, 5, 10 or 20 sec) |
| Metering modes |
|
| Exposure compensation | ±5 EV (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±2 (3 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes (3 frames in either blue/amber or magenta/green axis) |
| Videography features | |
| Format |
|
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (60, 50, 30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50 fps), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps) |
| Videography notes | 1920 x 1080, 60i (59.94 fields/s)/ 50i (50 fields/s), high/normal 1920 x 1080, 30 p (progressive)/25p/24p, high/normal |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Connectivity | |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| HDMI | Yes (Mini Type C) |
| Wireless | Optional |
| Remote control | Yes (Optional ML-L3 or WR-R10) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | No |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | Lithium-Ion EN-EL14 rechargeable battery & charger |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 555 g (1.22 lb / 19.58 oz) |
| Dimensions | 129 x 98 x 78 mm (5.08 x 3.86 x 3.07″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | Yes |
| GPS | Optional |
| GPS notes | GP-1 |
Product Images
Additional Info
Purchase options
Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM Lens
Product Summary
- Name: Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM
- Release Date: August 26, 2010
- Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
- Format : Full Frame
- Mounts: Canon EF
- Color: Black
- Availability: January of 2011
- Price: $1,400
- Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H
Overview
This lens is for filmmakers and photographers who want to explore the creative possibilities with extreme wide angle and fisheye photography. The new Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM is a world-class choice for its unique zoom range. EF 8-15mm f/4L USM is the world’s widest fisheye zoom currently available.
This lens is capable of delivering 180° diagonal angle of view for all Canon EOS SLR cameras ranging from full-frame to APS-C, and provides 180° circular fisheye images for full-frame EOS models.
It features UD glass to suppress chromatic aberration, a Subwavelength coating to minimize ghosting. To keep soiling, smears and fingerprints to a minimum Canon used a newly developed Fluorine coating. Other features includes a full-time manual focus for instant switching from AF to Manual operation.
This lens is built to the standards of the amazing Canon L-series of lenses, means the finest image quality, the best construction and the best professional performance available to deliver stunning images every time. Available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H.
Sample Photo taken by Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM Lens on Flickr
Product Photo
Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L Specifications
| Focal Length & Max Aperture | 8-15mm f/ 4.0 |
| Lens Construction | 14 elements in 11 groups |
| Diagonal Angle of View | 180° |
| Focus Adjustment | Lens extension via inner focusing and focus cam plus floating mechanism |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 0.16m / 6.2 in. |
| Filter Size | Rear Gel Holder (accepts up to 3 pre-cut gel filters) |
| Max. Diameter x Length | 3.1 x 3.7 in / 78.5 x 83.0mm |
| Wt | 540g / 19.047 oz |
| other | UD glass for suppression of chromatic aberration Subwavelength coating for reduced ghosting Fluorine coating Full-time manual focus |
| special feature | Fixed petal-type hood Gelatin filter holder at the rear |
Purchase options
EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H