Nikon D810 Teaser…Shooting Milky Way!

Ok…we are excited. Are you?!

Is this is ultimate astronomy camera?!

Nikon has just released a video using the D850 to shoot the milky way…the results look AMAZING!

The highly-anticipated Nikon D850 is coming soon.

Redefine full frame.

Experience the best of both worlds – exceptional image and video quality in the Nikon D850. Whether your interest lies in the fields of fashion, nature, sports or wedding photography and videography, this versatile, FX-format DSLR will have the best combination of superb resolution and high speed to achieve detailed and vivid images.

Below is the official press release from Nikon on the development of the D850:

Development of Digital SLR Camera Nikon D850

MELVILLE, NY – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the development of the next generation full-frame, high-resolution, high-speed digital SLR cameras with the upcoming release of the highly-anticipated Nikon D850. This announcement coincides with Nikon’s 100th anniversary of its establishment, which is celebrated today.

The D850 will be a formidable tool for creators who will not compromise on exceptional image quality and versatility, including both aspiring and professional photographers as well as hobbyists who capture landscapes, weddings, sports, fashion, commercial imagery and multimedia content creators.

The D850 is the successor to the D810, which has been highly praised by its users for offering extremely sharp and clear rendering, with rich tone characteristics. This powerful new FX-format digital SLR camera is engineered with a range of new technologies, features and performance enhancements that are a direct result of feedback from users, who demand the very best from their camera equipment. The D850 will exceed the expectations of the vast range of photographers that seek the high resolution and high-speed capabilities that only a Nikon of this caliber complemented by NIKKOR lenses can offer.

Winners of the 2017 Magnum and LensCulture Photography Awards Announced

Magnum and LensCulture officially announced the winners of their 2017 Photography Awards, doling out prizes in six categories: Documentary, Fine Art, Open, Photojournalism, Portrait and Street.

Surely elephant feet are of no use to anyone but the elephant itself. These elephant feet were seized by Border Patrol USA and are currently stored at the National Wildlife Repository Denver, Colorado, USA. Together with their partners in the USA and internationally, Border Patrol is determined to stop the illegal movement of endangered species and their body parts. Britta Jaschinski has been documenting illegally traded wildlife products since August 2016 at borders and airport across the globe.
Refugees in the queue for the checkpoint Idomeni,Greece , March 6 , 2016

Each of the ‘Single Image’ award winners (Magnum and LensCulture also gave out awards for best Series) walks away with US$1,500 in prize money and the serious bragging rights that come with having won an award administered by one of the most prestigious names in photography.

Additionally, all of the winners, finalists and juror’s pics will be screened at various photo festivals worldwide throughout the year.

WINNERS OF THE MAGNUM AND LENSCULTURE PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS ANNOUNCED

Twelve international photographers have been announced as the winners of the 2017 Magnum and LensCulture Photography Awards. The legendary photography agency, Magnum Photos, and LensCulture have joined forces for the second time to produce this opportunity to recognize, reward and support photographic talent. Each photographer will be awarded a cash prize and will also receive international exposure through Magnum Photos and LensCulture’s combined audience of over 6.5 million. The winning projects will be shown in a digital exhibition at The Photographers’ Gallery in London later this year and exhibited at photography festivals worldwide. Furthermore, the laureates will be awarded access to expert guidance from Magnum and LensCulture.

The twelve winners of the prestigious award hail from all over the world and deal with a diversity of subjects. Nick Hannes, the Documentary series winner, pursued a project featuring the culture of the elite in Dubai, while Lissa Rivera’s striking portraits of her non-binary partner explore contemporary notions of gender and its narratives in today’s society. All told, the series and single image awards include six categories: Street, Portrait, Photojournalism, Open, Fine Art and Documentary.

SERIES WINNERS

Street: Argus Paul Estabrook, South Korea — “Losing Face”

Portrait: Lissa Rivera, United States — “Beautiful Boy”

Photojournalism: Jason Florio, United Kingdom — “Destination Europe”

Open: Medina Dugger, Nigeria — “Chroma: An Ode to J.D. Okhai Ojeikere”

Fine Art: Daniel Shipp, Australia — “Botanical Inquiry”

Documentary: Nick Hannes, Belgium — “Bread and Circuses”

SINGLE WINNERS

Street: Hakim Boulouiz, Switzerland — “Choral”

Portrait: Artur Zdral, Poland — “Kasia”

Photojournalism: Szymon Barylski – “Fleeing Death”

Open: Britta Jaschinski, United Kingdom — “Confiscated”

Fine Art: Ellie Davis, United Kingdom — “Stars”

Documentary: Retam Kumar Shaw, India – “Street Wrestling”

In addition, twenty-one finalists have also been selected, and each juror has chosen one photographer as a “Juror’s Pick.”

Jurors’ Picks

Edgar Martins, United Kingdom — “Siloquies and Soliloquies on Death, Life and Other Interludes.” Selected by Yumi Goto, independent photography curator, editor, researcher, consultant, and publisher.

Shahria Sharmin, Bangladesh — “Call Me Heena.” Selected by Susan Meiselas, Magnum photographer and MacArthur Fellow.

Christian Werner, Germany — “Road to Ruin.” Selected by Sarah Leen, Director of Photography at National Geographic Magazine.
Sonja Hamad, Germany — “Jin—Jiyan—Azadi: Women, Life, Freedom.” Selected by Lesley Martin, creative director at the Aperture Foundation and publisher of The PhotoBook Review.
Antonio Gibotta, Italy — “Enfarinats.” Selected by Jim Casper, editor-in-chief of LensCulture.

MD Tanveer Rohan, Bangladesh — “Fun Bath.” Selected by David Hurn, Magnum photographer.

Terje Abusdal, Norway — “Slash and Burn.” Selected by Alec Soth, Magnum photographer.

Mirko Saviane, Italy – “B-Uranus.” Selected by Azu Nwagbogu, Founder and Director of LagosPhoto Festival and the African Artists’ Foundation.

Finalists

Zhang KeChun, China — “Between the Mountains and Water”

Thomas Alleman, United States — “The Nature of the Beast: Living On The Land In Los Angeles”

Thom Pierce, South Africa – “The Horsemen of Semonkong”

Sasha Maslov, United States — “Veterans: Faces of World War II”

Roei Greenberg, Israel — “Along the Break”

Paul D’Haese, Belgium — “Building an Imaginary City”

Panos Kefalos, Greece — “Saints”

Jonathan Bachman, United States — “Unrest in Baton Rouge”

Jens Juul, Denmark — “Biotope”

Gregg Segel, United States — “Daily Bread”

Gabriel Romero, United States — “Liberation and Longing”

Emilien Urbano, France — “War of a Forgotten Nation”

Ash Shinya Kawaoto, Japan — “Scrap and Build”

Antonio Faccilongo, Italy — “Habibi”

Ramona Deckers, Netherlands — “Goran in Bed”

Matthew Sowa, United States — “Grandmother’s Room”

Karen Pulfer Focht, United States — “Busiest Brain Surgery Unit”

Farida Lemeatrag, Belgium — “Milo”

Ana Carolina Fernandes, Brazil — “Burning Bus”

Amos Nachoum, United States — “Seal and Penguin”

A.M. Ahad, Bangladesh — “Childhood Covered with Metal Dust”

Sigma MC-11 Firmware Update 1.08

Sigma releases MC-11 Firmware Update 1.08.

Update Date 2017.07.20

It corrects the phenomenon that AF does not operate properly when some lenses that are not compatible with the MC-11 are attached.
※ Before updating the MC-11 firmware, please ensure SIGMA Optimization Pro has been updated to ver. 1.4.1 or later for Windows, and ver. 1.4.0 or later for Macintosh.

Download at:

https://www.sigma-global.com/en/download/lenses/firmware/

 

Fujifilm Malaysia Cash Back Offer (1st July – 31st August)

Fujifilm Malaysia is offering CASH Back Offer to the selected lenses in their line up!

Terms & Conditions

Customers are allow to purchase more than ONE (1) model of lens per invoice but limited to only ONE (1) piece per lens model.
FUJIFILM (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd reserved the right to amend Terms & Conditions this campaign without prior notice. Any decision made by the management of FUJIFILM (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd shall be final and no correspondence will be entertained.

Questions?

If you have any questions regarding this promotion, you may contact us at:

FUJIFILM Malaysia
Tel : +603 – 7966 0799
Email : fmal.digital@fujifilm.com

Canon Malaysia Announced EOS 200D Digital SLR Camera

The Canon EOS 200D (also called Rebel SL2 in USA) is an ultra-compact digital SLR that features a 24MP APS-C-sized CMOS sensor, DIGIC 7 processor and Dual Pixel autofocus system. While its Dual Pixel AF system promises very good live view and video performance, the through-the-viewfinder AF system is aging. This svelte camera has a fully articulating 3″ touchscreen display with an easy-to-use interface, 1080/60p video capture and a burst rate of up to 5 fps. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi (with NFC) and Bluetooth.

Canon Malaysia set the official retail price at RM2,999.00 (incl. GST), but expect the street price to be lower as usual. The camera comes only in kit set paired with EF-S 18-55mm STM Lens, and bundled with free gifts 16GB SD Card + Bag RL CL-02M CLASSIC MII.

Below are the official announcement from Canon Malaysia.






Photographer Went Broke After Long Copyright Battle

The infamous photo, captured when the monkey pressed the shutter, has become the subject of a years-long copyright dispute that has left Slater broke. Photo: David Slater

Freelance photographer David Slater, once one of the most talked-about photographers in the world because of his serendipitous ‘monkey selfies,’ is now considering dog walking… or giving tennis lessons. According to The Guardian, the selfsame selfie that made Slater famous has left him broke after years of legal disputes between Slater and both Wikimedia and PETA.

In case you’ve not been following this strangest of copyright battles, the details are as follows. In 2011, Slater traveled to Sulawesi, Indonesia where, by his account, he managed to coax some macaques to start playing with his camera gear. Slater did this on purpose, he says, because he was having trouble getting a close up wide-angle shot of the monkeys with their eyes open.

His gambit worked. One of the macaques took a few ‘selfies’ that immediately went viral, earning Slater a few thousand pounds… then the legal troubles started.

Wikimedia refused to take down the photo at Slater’s request, claiming that he wasn’t the copyright holder since he didn’t press the shutter. Then the US Copyright Office ruled that animals cannot own copyrights, leaving the photo ostensibly author-less. And finally, since Slater continues to claim copyright, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) sued him on behalf of the macaque in 2015.

That pretty much brings us to yesterday’s article in The Guardian, in which Slater admits that years of legal battles have left him broke and ready to ‘pack it all in.’ He couldn’t even afford the airfare to attend his own trial in San Francisco this week—instead, he watched a livestream of the trial from his home in the UK.

Slater’s current predicament isn’t just a cautionary tale for photographers who dream of going viral, it offers fascinating insights into the archaic laws surrounding authorship and copyright. Of course, the idea that this case might prevent future photographers from going through something similar is probably small consolation for Slater at this junction.

Source: https://www.dpreview.com/news/7323283771/photographer-behind-famous-monkey-selfie-broke-after-years-long-copyright-battle

Leica M10 1.9.4.0 Firmware Updates and Bug Fix

Leica has released firmware 1.9.4.0 for the M10, correcting a bug from firmware 1.7.4.0 that produces black images in some cases during short exposures. The company has also advised M10 owners on how to handle SD cards issues that may arise in some circumstances, stating that cards with speeds of at least 80MB/s should be used.

The latest firmware can be downloaded here.

The full M10 firmware v. 1.9.4.0 change-log reads:

  • With the previous firmware 1.7.4.0, a larger selection of SD cards were made compatible with the Leica M10. Unfortunately we discovered, that in certain cases, the firmware 1.7.4.0 could produce black images when using short exposure times. This bug has now been fixed with firmware 1.9.4.0.
  • All improvements from previous firmware versions are included in firmware 1.9.4.0. We apologize for any inconveniences this may have caused.

Improvements of SD card compatibility

  • With the Firmware 1.7.4.0 a larger choice of SD cards is compatible with the Leica M10.
  • With the last Firmware, certain SD cards were not recognized, or the complete write speed could not be used with the camera.
  • The Leica M10 supports SDHC/SDXC cards from 1GB up to 512 GB. We recommend to use cards with write speed 80 MB/s or higher in order not to restrict the cameras performance. In single cases it can occur that the speed, stated by the cards manufacturers, differs from the effective read or write speed in the Leica M10.
  • Use UHS I cards instead of UHS II. The M10 is compatible with UHS II cards, but does not use the full UHS II speed. Leica performs ongoing compatibility tests of the latest cards available in the market. We ask for your understanding that due to changes in production and software, Leica cannot guarantee a 100% compatibility of the recommended cards.

Google Ai to Harvest Landscape Photos from Street View Imagery

Google is in possession of vast amounts of Earth imagery via its Street View product, and now it is testing machine learning as a way to harvest ‘professional-level photographs’ from that imagery. As detailed in a newly-published study, Google researchers created an experimental deep-learning system that trawls Street View landscapes in search of high-quality compositions.

Machine learning, while capable at tasks that involve ‘well defined goals,’ struggles in the face of subjective concepts such as determining whether a photograph has high aesthetic value. Google developed this latest deep-learning system as a way to explore how artificial intelligence can learn subjective concepts such as photography—training the system using professional photographs taken by humans.

Compositions identified by the AI from the Street View imagery were then automatically improved using an editing tool called ‘dramatic mask’ that enhances an image’s lighting.

Below are some examples from the Google Research Blog:

“Using our system, we mimic the workflow of a landscape photographer,” the researchers explain. “From framing for the best composition to carrying out various post-processing operations.”

To test the quality of its AI-generated photos, Google asked professional photographers to blindly rate a collection of photos from various sources, including its Street View photos. The team’s conclusion from those ratings is that, “a portion of our robot’s creation can be confused with professional work.”

Nikon Firmware Update for D5, D500, B700, Camera Control Pro 2, and ViewNX-i

Nikon is on a happy mood…so they announced not 1, not 2 but 5 updates to their cameras and software below.

The updates are available via the following links:

D5 Firmware Version 1.10 to 1.20:

  • Added two new AF-area modes: group-area AF (HL) and group-area AF (VL). The user selects a row (HL) or column (VL) of focus points; when AF-C is selected for focus mode, the camera will give priority to the point in the selected row or column containing the subject closest to the camera.
  • Updated the photo info display to show the color temperature for photos taken with Auto selected for white balance.
  • Added an Exif tag listing the difference between the local time zone and UTC, part of the Exif 2.31 specification.
  • Added the support for the following features of AF-P lenses:
    • If the standby timer expires after the camera has focused, the focus position will not change when the timer is reactivated.
    • In manual focus mode, the focus indicator in the viewfinder (or in live view, the focus point selected in the monitor) will flash to show that infinity or the minimum focus distance has been reached by rotating the focus ring.
  • Changed the checks performed when Clean image sensor > Clean now is selected in the SETUP MENU. We recommend that you perform image sensor cleaning after updating the firmware.

Fixed the following issues:

  • The higher the amount of Active D Lighting selected when optional flash units were used with auto aperture (AA), non-TTL auto (A), or distance-priority manual (GN) flash mode, the more the resulting images would be underexposed.
  • Changes to exposure (including exposure compensation) would not be reflected in the photo live view exposure preview while the display was zoomed in.
  • Photo live view display WB could not be selected in the i-button menu while the exposure preview was displayed in photo live view.
  • Taking long bursts of photos with On selected for Network > Options > Auto send would sometimes drastically slow the recording of data to the memory card.
  • Reduced the amount of time needed to connect to hidden SSIDs when WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK is selected for Authentication.
  • Updated some help text.

Notice

Users of the software listed below will need to update to the following versions to support the changes in this firmware update:

    • Camera Control Pro 2 version 2.25.1 or later
    • ViewNX-i version 1.2.8 or later

Coolpix B700 Firmware 1.2 to 1.3

  • Fixed an issue that prevented the camera charging when connected to an AC charging adapter with Off selected for Charge by computer.

Nikon D500 Firmware 1.12 to 1.13

  • Fixed an issue that interfered with pairing or resulted in unreliable connections when the camera was used with the Android edition of the SnapBridge app.

Camera Control Pro 2.25.0 to 2.25.1

  • Added support for D5 “C” firmware version 1.20.
  • Added Group-area AF (HL) and Group-area AF (VL) options to AF-area mode (D5 “C” firmware version 1.20).

ViewNX-i 1.2.7 to 1.2.8

  • Added support for D5 “C” firmware version 1.20. Users can now:
    • View focus points for images taken using group-area AF (HL) and group-area AF (VL)
    • Use File and Camera Information to view the color temperature for photos taken using auto white balance

Nikon D750 Shutter Recall, Again.

Is your Nikon D750 affected by the recall? There is no official list of serial number published by Nikon, but you can do a simple checking at:

https://nikon.tfaforms.net/215

UPDATED NIKON D750 SERVICE ADVISORY AS OF JULY 12, 2017.

Technical Service Advisory for users of the Nikon D750 digital SLR camera

Thank you for choosing Nikon for your photographic needs.

In February of 2016, we announced in an update that the shutter in some Nikon D750 digital SLR cameras manufactured between October 2014 through June 2015 may not function normally, sometimes resulting in a shading of a portion of images. Since that time, we have learned that the same issue may affect D750 cameras manufactured from July 2014 through September 2014 and from July 2015 through September 2016.

For those who have already purchased a D750 and would like to have their camera serviced for this issue, free of charge, Nikon service centers will service cameras as indicated below. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this issue may have caused.

Identifying affected D750 cameras

To check whether or not your camera may be one of those affected by this issue, click the Check Your Serial Number link below and enter your D750’s serial number as instructed.

If your D750 camera is one of those that may be affected, instructions for obtaining service will be displayed. If your D750 camera is not one of those to which this issue may apply, rest assured that service to your D750 camera as to this issue is not necessary and you may continue using your D750 camera without concern for this issue.

Check Your Serial Number

The camera’s serial number is the 7-digit number indicated by the red frame in the image above.

Resolution

If your D750 camera may be affected, as confirmed with the serial number check above, you will be provided with the necessary information to obtain service for this issue free of charge. Once your D750 camera is received by Nikon, your D750 camera’s shutter will be examined and replaced, and your D750 camera returned to you free of charge, even if your D750 camera warranty has expired.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this matter may have caused you.

Nikon will continue to take all possible measures to further improve product quality. Therefore, we hope that you will continue to choose Nikon for your photographic needs.

Nikon New AF-P NIKKOR 70-300MM F/4.5-5.6E ED VR Lens

NIKON INTRODUCES NEW FULL-FRAME TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS: THE AF-P NIKKOR 70-300MM F/4.5-5.6E ED VR

MELVILLE, NY (July 11, 2017 at 12:01 A.M. EDT) – Today, Nikon announced the new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR, modernizing this popular zoom lens with a myriad of the latest Nikon technologies. The new lens features enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization capability and integrates a stepping motor for fast and quiet AF performance, making it Nikon’s first full-frame AF-P lens. This new NIKKOR lens is a versatile, compact telephoto option for intermediate FX and DX-format photographers looking to capture sports, wildlife, candids, travel and other subjects at long distances, all with stunning clarity.

“This latest lens reaffirms Nikon’s commitment to giving FX-format shooters of all levels the unparalleled quality of NIKKOR glass, with the benefits of our latest optical technologies,” said Kosuke Kawaura, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.

Updated with the Latest NIKKOR Lens Technologies
Whether capturing a baseball game from the bleachers or the sights of a scenic vacation, the new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR is a versatile lens that helps users capture sharp images and video, even in challenging light. The new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm is lighter than its predecessor, despite packing new technologies that help those shooting photos and video achieve stellar results. Enhancements to the lens include:

  • Improved Vibration Reduction (VR) System: The new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm lens provides users with up to 4.5 stops* of VR stabilization, to help create sharp photos and smooth video, even in low light or while handheld. Users can choose from either Normal or Sport VR Modes for added stability when shooting from a non-stationary location.
  • Lightweight with Stepping Motor Technology: This AF-P lens uses a stepping motor for fast and quiet autofocus, which reduces the sound of lens operation while recording HD or 4K UHD video. This new technology also contributes to the lens’ reduced weight, making it easy to carry on all-day excursions.
  • Electronic Diaphragm: This lens takes advantage of the fast burst speed of Nikon DSLR cameras, as the Electronic Diaphragm not only provides smooth exposure transitions during video capture, but also helps maintain consistent exposure during high-speed shooting, such as when photographing sports.
  • Get Close: The AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm lens features a minimum focus distance of only 3.94 ft. (1.2 meters) and a reproduction ratio of 0.25x, letting users get even closer to capture the most extravagant details, even at 300mm.
  • Lens Construction: The lens features dust and drip resistance, along with a metal lens mount for durability. It features a 9-blade diaphragm for a natural, circular bokeh. The lens also features an ED element to significantly reduce instances of chromatic aberration.

Price and Availability
The Nikon AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR lens will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95**, and availability will be announced at a later date. For more information on this new NIKKOR lens as well as the latest Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

*Based on CIPA Standard. This value is achieved when FX-format compatible lenses are attached to a FX-format digital SLR camera and zoom lenses are set at the maximum telephoto position.

**SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time. Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm F4.5-5.6E ED VR specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 70–300 mm
Image stabilization Yes (4.5 stops)
Lens mount Nikon F (FX)
Aperture
Maximum aperture F4.5–32
Minimum aperture F5.6–40
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 18
Groups 14
Special elements / coatings 1 ED element
Focus
Minimum focus 1.25 m (49.21)
Maximum magnification 0.25×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Focus distance limiter No
Physical
Weight 680 g (1.50 lb)
Diameter 81 mm (3.17)
Length 146 mm (5.75)
Sealing No
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Filter thread 67.0 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Hood product code HB-82
Tripod collar No

Leica Announced New TL2 Mirrorless Camera (24MP, APS-C Sensor, 20fps, 4K/30p Video)

LEICA CAMERA PRESENTS THE LEICA TL2: PERFECTED FEATURES AND PERSUASIVE PERFORMANCE MEET UNIQUE DESIGN

Based on the Leica TL-System, which has been continuously advanced in terms of speed, ease of handling and flexibility since its market launch, the new Leica TL2 embraces all the perfected features and leads the innovative camera concept into a new generation with additional innovations and new design aspects. The particular hallmark of the Leica TL2 is the unusual design of its compact body. Each camera body is precisely machined from a single block of aluminium in the Leica factory. The use of premium materials and their engineering in an elaborate manufacturing process are unique in the history of camera construction and lend the Leica TL2 an unmistakeable look, feel and solidity.

Brilliant still pictures and video footage

The Leica TL2 is equipped with a newly developed, 24-megapixel CMOS sensor in APS-C format that, in combination with an equally new, Maestro II series high-performance image processor, guarantees outstanding picture quality with impressive dynamic range, excellent contrast and colour rendition, exceptional sharpness and finest resolution of details. However, the Leica TL2 impresses not only with its still picture performance, but also with its video capabilities. The camera’s various video recording modes, such as 4K (3840 x 2160p at 30 frames per second), full HD (1920 x 1080p at 60 frames per second), HD (1280 x 720p at 60 frames per second or slow motion [SLOMO] captured at 120 frames per second), leave absolutely nothing to be desired.

Fast and almost silent

One of the highlights of the Leica TL2 is its enormously improved AF speed and precision. For instance, the camera focuses sharply on subjects in around only 165 milliseconds (CIPA standard; Leica standard zoom lens at its wide-angle setting), and thus focuses up to three times faster than the previous model. The new Leica Maestro II series image processor not only plays a significant role in its faster autofocus, but also to the considerably shorter start-up time. Another new development is an electronically controlled shutter that enables silent exposures at shutter speeds up to 1/40,000 s and an increase in the continuous shooting rate from 7 to a maximum of 20 frames per second.

Connectivity with and without a cable

Thanks to the integrated Wi-Fi module of the Leica TL2 and the function for setting up a mobile hotspot, pictures and video can be conveniently transferred by wireless to smartphones, tablets and desktop PCs from anywhere and then, for example, be shared by email, on Facebook, Instagram or other social media. Data can also be transferred lightning fast by cable with the camera’s integrated HDMI and USB 3.0 ports. The USB port also enables recharging of the Leica TL2 without a battery charger – for example from a laptop computer or an external power bank.

With the TL App available for both iOS and Android devices, smartphones or tablets are transformed into electronic viewfinders and offer remote control of various exposure-relevant parameters such as the shutter speed and aperture. The TL App also makes it much easier to capture photos and video from unusual angles, with a self-timer or with longer shutter speeds.

Modern, intuitive and versatile

By grouping menu items according to related functions, the menu of the Leica TL2 is now more clearly and logically structured and makes camera handling easier and even more intuitive than before. With the MyCamera menu, the user interface can be further personalised to meet the photographer’s preferences or particular needs. This means that the photographer always has fast access to all frequently used features and presets. Thanks to significantly increased reactivity and up to eight times faster response when using the touchscreen, camera handling is now even more efficient and intuitive. At the heart of this is a bright and clearly laid-out 3.7″ LCD touchscreen display that enables both composition and reliable and convenient assessment of subjects before and after exposure. The only other controls are four ergonomically positioned haptic control elements that are intuitive in their operation. This ensures that camera users can concentrate fully on composing their pictures – without any unnecessary distractions.

The best in its class

The comprehensive portfolio of lenses in the Leica TL-System offers an ideal range of focal lengths for all situations and types of photography. The system currently comprises six lenses – three prime lenses and three zooms – that meet the needs of every photographic situation. The two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23 mm f/2 ASPH. and the Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH., are classic focal lengths for reportage photography, and the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. complements them ideally as a lens for finely detailed close-up photography. The three compact zoom lenses, the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11–23 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56 mm f/3.5–5.6 ASPH. and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55–135 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., cover an entire range of focal lengths equivalent to 17 to 200 mm (equiv. in 35 mm format) and deliver exposures with rich contrast from corner to corner of each frame.

All Leica TL-Lenses impress with exceptional imaging performance at all distances from closest focusing distance to infinity and deliver pictures with the inimitable ‘Leica look’ and unique bokeh. Developed by optical design specialists in Wetzlar (Germany), they offer the exceptional imaging performance for which Leica lenses are famed. The combination of optical and precision engineering expertise and the use of finest materials in their construction ensures their constant quality and reliability in use.

Sustainability guaranteed by cross-system compatibility

Thanks to the L-Bayonet mount shared by the Leica TL and SL cameras, SL-Lenses can also be used without an adapter on the Leica TL2. With this, Leica once again carries forward its fundamental principles of cross-system compatibility and sustainability, which is now also reflected in a uniform product designation. Dedicated adapters are available for using Leica M and R lenses on TL-Cameras – the Leica M-Adapter is available in a choice of black or silver finish.

New design in two colour options

The Leica TL2 will be offered in a choice of two different colours from the start. The design of both the silver and black versions of the camera has been slightly revised in comparison with its predecessor. In addition to chamfered edges the body also features redesigned control elements that have been modified not only in visual style, but also provide a new haptic experience.

Functional camera accessories, such as high-quality protectors in Nappa leather, which can stay on the camera when changing the battery, and colour-coordinated carrying straps in stone-grey, black, red, yellow and cemento, are ideal complements to the TL system portfolio.

Leica TL2 specifications

Price
MSRP $1950 (body only)
Body type
Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Body material Aluminum
Sensor
Max resolution 6016 x 4014
Other resolutions 6000 x 4000, 4272 x 2856, 3024 x 2016
Image ratio w:h 3:2
Effective pixels 24 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 25 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (23.6 x 15.7 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-50000
White balance presets 5
Custom white balance Yes (2 slots)
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Superfine, fine
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (DNG)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 49
Lens mount Leica L
Focal length multiplier 1.5×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fixed
Screen size 3.7
Screen dots 1,230,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic (optional)
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/40000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • sport
  • portrait
  • landscape
  • night portrait
  • snow/beach
  • fireworks
  • candlelight
  • sunset
  • digiscoping
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes
Flash X sync speed 1/180 sec
Continuous drive 7.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±3 (3 frames at 1/3 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 120p, MP4, H.264, AAC
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types Internal + SD/SDHC/SDXC card
Storage included 32GB
Connectivity
USB USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
HDMI Yes
Microphone port No
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description BP-DC13 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 250
Weight (inc. batteries) 399 g (0.88 lb / 14.07 oz)
Dimensions 134 x 69 x 33 mm (5.28 x 2.72 x 1.3)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS Optional
GPS notes requires EVF

Nikon Limited Edition Eamera Posters for 100th Anniversary

Celebrate Nikon’s 100 year history of helping to tell the stories that matter. These ten designs, each of an iconic Nikon camera and limited to just 100 first edition prints, will be printed on archival fine art paper, hand-numbered, embossed with a special seal and beautifully framed to your liking by Level Frames. Beautiful enough to adorn a home, office or studio, these 19.5″ x 19.5″ limited edition posters (framed and matted to 23.5″ x 23.5″) are the perfect gift for yourself or anyone passionate about photography and the simple, functional, classic design of these historic Nikon cameras. Nikon has teamed up with portfolio and printing company Level.Press to create a series of limited edition camera posters.

The print sells with frame and price between US$127 and US$173 (RM550-750). Which one you like most?

 

Billions of Hotlinked Images Broken, by Photobucket

Since 2003, the popular photo hosting service Photobucket has been letting users upload and host images for free on their servers. They have over 10 billion images stored by 100 million registered users. But now they’re going to start charging, and that means billions of images around the Web are now broken.

If you’re an avid Photobucket user, you woke up to a nasty surprise this past week: the photo storage and hosting service changed their terms, breaking billions of images online in one fell swoop, without so much as a courtesy notice.

Photobucket has been allowing free users to host and link to images on its servers since 2003. If you wanted to host your photos on Photobucket and display them on some 3rd party site (also known as hotlinking) you could do that without being a paying member. This is an extremely useful—not to mention bandwidth-intensive—service to offer, and it’s one of the reasons Photobucket has managed to amass over 10 billion photos uploaded to its servers by over 100 million users.

But starting last week, the company changed its terms and membership structure, and what once was free will now cost users a whopping US$400 (RM1850) per year. Suddenly, billions of images Photobucket users had hotlinked online no longer showed up. Entire forum threads, like this one found the photo blog by PetaPixel, are now devoid of images.

Instead, you have this graphic on display… over and over:

Hotlinking (AKA inline linking) is when someone takes an image file hosted on a server and embeds it on a different webpage elsewhere. Since the new webpage continuously requests the file from the original source server, it saps the server owner’s bandwidth (and storage space).

Photobucket allowed hotlinking photos uploaded to and stored on its servers for a long time. This was their business model, and they made money from ads on their own site, which users would be exposed to when they went to upload content.

Unfortunately for Photobucket users, things are about to change in a big way as of June 26th. Now the service is rolling out a $399 per year subscription fee for those who want to hotlink images from Photobucket’s servers to display elsewhere. That means that billions of images across the Web now display an error message instead of the image in question.

Just look at this forum thread to see how Photobucket users are reacting to this change. The move has sparked fury from users, who have relied on the service for years and now feel “blackmailed” into paying the subscription fee.

It’s not a huge surprise to see a decision like this. Advertising revenues are declining for publishers, and the costs of servers to host 10 billion images are surely incredibly high (especially when requests are made for them from all over the Web). While other free services remain, it seems fairly likely that others will follow suit and start charging for hosting files too.