Sony Won 6 TIPA 2018 Awards

Sony clinch six awards for the Best Photography Gear at the prestigious TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) World Awards 2018. The award universally recognises the highest quality cameras, lenses, accessories and imaging products of the year, and is a mark of quality. See our award-winning cameras and lenses below!

 

 

Sigma announces 9 full-frame E-mount Art primes

SIGMA launches seven interchangeable Art prime lenses for Sony E-mount cameras with full-frame sensors

SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of interchangeable lenses for the Sony E-mount digital camera series with full-frame image sensors. SIGMA will gradually introduce the lenses as members of the Art line, which offers photographers the highest level of optical performance.

While offering the same high-performance optical design as other lenses in the Art line, the new Sony E-mount models will feature a newly developed control algorithm that optimizes the autofocus drive and maximizes the data transmission speed. In addition, these lenses will be compatible with Sony’s Continuous AF (AF-C) and high-speed autofocus, which are not addressed by SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11. Like the converter MC-11, the lenses will be compatible with in-camera image stabilization and in-camera lens aberration correction, which includes corrections for peripheral illumination, chromatic aberrations, and distortion.

The lineup will include the Art line set of seven prime lenses covering 14mm to 135mm. It will also include two models that SIGMA will be exhibiting at CP+ 2018: 70mm F2.8 DG MACRO | Art and 105mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art (launch date TBD). Further, SIGMA plans to introduce additional Sony E-mount models in the Art line going forward.

Note: This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.

Key features

1. Autofocus tuned for each lens
Thanks to an autofocus drive control program tuned for each lens and high-speed data transmission, the lenses will offer high-speed autofocus at the same performance level as that of a lens designed exclusively for mirrorless cameras. In particular, in E-mount cameras offering Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF, AF-C mode will deliver exceptional subject following performance. Moreover, autofocus will remain extremely precise even in those E-mount cameras offering only contrast AF.

2. Compatible with in-camera image stabilization
The lenses will be compatible with in-camera image stabilization. The Sony E-mount camera senses the focal length of the lens and automatically optimizes image stabilization performance.

3. Data loaded for compatibility with in-camera aberration correction The lenses will be fully compatible with in-camera aberration correction, which includes corrections for peripheral illumination, chromatic aberrations, and distortion. By matching corrections to the optical characteristics of the lens, this function takes image quality to an even higher level.

4. Native mount for a more rigid and stable feel Making the mount native to the lens makes possible a more rigid and stable feel to the lens. Featuring a special surface treatment to enhance strength, the brass bayonet mount offers a high-precision fit and exceptional durability. The mount connection area incorporates rubber sealing for dust- and splash-proof construction.

5. Available Mount Conversion Service This service converts the mount of SIGMA lenses to that of a different camera body, allowing photographers to continue using their favorite lenses over the long term regardless of camera system.

Note 1: The Mount Conversion Service is different from a normal repair. In order to apply for the service, please contact your nearest authorized SIGMA subsidiary or distributor. https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/world-network/

Note 2: This service is performed exclusively by SIGMA.

Product lineup

SIGMA 14mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case

SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case

SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case and hood

SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case and hood

SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case and hood

SIGMA 70mm F2.8DG MACRO | Art (CP+ 2018 exhibit)
Launch date: TBD. Includes case and hood

SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case and hood

SIGMA 105mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art (CP+ 2018 exhibit)
Launch date: TBD. Include case, hood, and tripod socket

SIGMA 135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art
Launch date: TBD. Includes case and hood

Sony 1+1 Year Additional Warranty Promo (15th Jan – 28th Feb 2018)

Sony Malaysia is giving out 1+1 Year additional warranty for their selected digital camera during this Chinese New Year festive season, from 15th Jan till 28th Feb 2018.

The models with additional warranty are:

  • Sony FDR-X3000R0
  • Sony FDR-AS300R
  • Sony HDR-AS50R
  • Sony RX100 V
  • Sony A7R II
  • Sony A7R II
  • Sony A7S II

To be eligible for the additional warranty, you must register your Sony camera at:

There are also free gifts and cash rebate from Sony as below. The cash rebate normally is discounted directly from dealers. Since the cash rebate has been carried on since Dec 2017, so you won’t see any price changes from dealers for the cameras.

Sony Announced E-mount 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens for APS-C bodies

Sony Adds High Magnification, High Quality 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 APS-C Zoom Lens to E-mount Lens Lineup

New Compact, Lightweight E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS Features Outstanding Sharpness and Fast, Precise, Quiet AF for a wide variety of still and video applications

SAN DIEGO, Jan 4, 2018 – Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer, has today announced its 48th E-mount lens. This new APS-C lens features a versatile 18-135mm focal length, aperture range of F3.5-F5.6 and Optical SteadyShot™ stabilization.

The new lens (model SEL18135) features a compact, lightweight design measuring only 2.75 x 3.5 inches and weighing in at a mere 11.5 oz, as well as a high magnification 7.5x optical zoom that covers the wide-ranging focal length of 18-135mm on APS-C or 27-202.5mm in 35mm equivalent focal length. The lens is an ideal fit for Sony’s popular APS-C sensor cameras including α6500, α6300 and α6000, and is an extremely useful tool for a wide range of shooting situations ranging from daily life to portraiture, landscape, nature and travel photography.

The E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS produces outstanding corner-to-corner sharpness throughout the entire zoom range thanks to its advanced design featuring one aspherical lens and two extra-low dispersion glass elements that minimize aberrations. This lens also allows photographers to produce close-up images with pleasing ‘bokeh’ or background defocus as a result of its maximum magnification ratio of 0.29x and minimum focus distance of 1.48ft. It also offers built-in optical image stabilization to support handheld shooting.

Additionally, the 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS Zoom Lens offers fast, precise, quiet AF performance thanks to a linear motor, making it a perfect complement to the high-speed shooting and impressive video capabilities of many of Sony’s mirrorless cameras.

Pricing and Availability

The new E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS APS-C Zoom Lens will ship next month and will be sold for about $600 US and $780 CA.

Sony E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size APS-C / DX
Focal length 18–1325 mm
Image stabilization Yes
Lens mount Sony E
Aperture
Maximum aperture F3.5–5.6
Minimum aperture F22–36
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Optics
Elements 16
Groups 12
Special elements / coatings 1 aspherical + 2 ED elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.45 m (17.72)
Maximum magnification 0.29×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Linear Motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 325 g (0.72 lb)
Diameter 67 mm (2.64)
Length 88 mm (3.46)
Sealing No
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock No
Filter thread 55 mm
Hood supplied No
Tripod collar No

Sony RX100 Series Comparison

Sony high end compact cameras, the RX100 series has been a great success in history.

Should you go for the latest Mark V version? Oris the still available Mark III is good enough?

Specification Sony RX100 I
DISCONTINUED
Sony RX100 II
DISCONTINUED
Sony RX100 III Sony RX100 IV Sony RX100 V
Announcement Date 06/06/2012 06/27/2013 05/28/2014 06/10/2015 10/06/2016
Sensor Type CMOS BSI CMOS BSI CMOS Stacked CMOS Stacked CMOS
Sensor Resolution 20.2 MP 20.2 MP 20.1 MP 20.1 MP 20.1 MP
Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8mm (1″) 13.2 x 8.8mm (1″) 13.2 x 8.8mm (1″) 13.2 x 8.8mm (1″) 13.2 x 8.8mm (1″)
Native ISO Range 125-6400 160-12,800 125-12,800 125-12,800 125-12,800
Image Processor Bionz Bionz Bionz X Bionz X Bionz X
Phase Detection Autofocus No No No No Yes
Phase Detection Autofocus Points N/A N/A N/A N/A 315 AF Points
Lens Focal Length 10.4-37.1mm 10.4-37.1mm 8.8-25.7mm 8.8-25.7mm 8.8-25.7mm
Focal Length in 35mm Equiv 28-100mm 28-100mm 24-70mm 24-70mm 24-70mm
Lens Aperture f/1.8-f/4.9 f/1.8-f/4.9 f/1.8-f/2.8 f/1.8-f/2.8 f/1.8-f/2.8
Integrated ND Filter No No Yes Yes Yes
Maximum Shutter Speed 1/2000 sec 1/2000 sec 1/2000 sec 1/32000 sec 1/32000 sec
Startup Time 2.8 sec 2.8 sec 2.0 sec 2.0 sec 2.0 sec
Anti Distortion Shutter No No No Yes Yes
Auto ISO Min Shutter Speed No No No Yes Yes
EVF N/A Optional 1.44 Million Dot EVF 2.36 Million Dot EVF 2.36 Million Dot EVF
Flash Hotshoe No Yes No No No
Built-in Flash Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Continuous Shooting Speed 10 fps 10 fps 10 fps 16 fps 24 fps
Buffer Size 13 JPEG / 13 RAW 13 JPEG / 13 RAW 48 JPEG / 26 RAW 48 JPEG / 26 RAW 150 JPEG + RAW
LCD Screen 3.0″ Fixed 3.0″ Tilting, +90°/-40° 3.0″ Tilting, +180°/-45° 3.0″ Tilting, +180°/-45° 3.0″ Tilting, +180°/-45°
Video Recording 1080p, up to 50 fps 1080p, up to 60 fps 1080p, up to 60 fps 4K, up to 30 fps 4K, up to 30 fps
S-Log2/S-Gamut No No No No Yes
Slow Motion Video N/A N/A Yes, Up to 120 fps Yes, Up to 960 fps Yes, Up to 960 fps
Slow Motion Video Duration N/A N/A 29 min 4 sec 8 sec
Built-in WiFi No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Battery Life (CIPA) 330 shots 350 shots 320 shots 280 shots 220 shots
Weight 240g 281g 290g 298g 299g
Size 102×58×36mm 102×58×38mm 102×58×41mm 102x58x41mm 102x58x41mm

Sony Announces New Cyber-shot RX10 IV

Sony’s New RX10 IV Combines Lightning Fast AF and 24 fps Continuous Shooting with Versatile 24-600mm F2.4-F4 Zoom Lens

  • World’s Fastest1 AF Speed, 24 fps2 Continuous Shooting with full AF/AE tracking
  • 315 focal-plane phase-detection AF points covering approx. 65% of the frame
  • ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-600mm3 F2.4-F4 Large Aperture, High Magnification Zoom Lens
  • 4K4 Movie Recording with full pixel readout without pixel binning

NEW YORK, Sept. 12, 2017 – Sony – a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer – has today announced the new flagship model in its acclaimed Cyber-shot® RX10 series, the RX10 IV(model DSC-RX10M4).

Featuring the world’s fastest1 AF acquisition time of 0.03 seconds5 and up to 24 fps continuous shooting2 with full AF/AE tracking, 315 phase-detection AF points that rivals those the fastest professional interchangeable lens cameras and an exceptionally versatile 24-600mm3 F2.4-F4 ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* lens, the new RX10 IV model delivers an unmatched combination of mobility and speed for imaging enthusiasts and professionals looking for the ultimate ‘all-in-one’ solution.

The impressive RX10 IV camera is equipped with a latest 1.0-type 20.1 MP6 Exmor RS CMOS stacked image sensor with DRAM chip along with a powerful BIONZ X™ image processor and front-end LSI. These key components all work together to maximize overall speed of operation and performance, ultimately ensuring the highest possible image and video quality throughout the entire range of the 24-600mm3lens.

“Our customers have been asking for an RX10 series camera with Sony’s latest innovations in AF performance, and we’ve delivered with the RX10 IV model,” said Neal Manowitz, Vice President of Digital Imaging at Sony Electronics. “With its unmatched combination of AF speed and tracking, continuous shooting performance, extensive range of up to 600mm and outstanding video quality, the RX10 IV delivers more flexibility in a singular package than anything else in market. It is perhaps the most versatile ‘all in one’ camera that Sony has ever created, offering a seemingly endless amount of creative possibilities for photographers and videographers.”

Fast Focusing, Fast Shooting

A first for Sony’s RX10 series of cameras, the new RX10 IV model features a Fast Hybrid AF system that combines the respective advantages of 315 phase-detection AF points covering approximately 65% of the sensor and contrast-detection AF to ultimately enable the camera to lock focus in as little as 0.03 seconds5. This high speed focusing complements the extensive 24-600mm3 range of the lens, ensuring all subjects can be captured with precise detail and clarity.

Additionally, for the first time in a Cyber-shot camera, the RX10 IV model employs High-density Tracking AF technology. This advanced technology, which had only been previously available in a select few of Sony’s acclaimed line of α interchangeable lens cameras, concentrates AF points around a subject to improve tracking and focus accuracy, allowing even the most unpredictable subjects including fast-moving athletes and birds in flight to be captured with ease.

Other AF improvements in the new RX10 IV camera include an enhanced version of the popular Eye AF, Touch Focus and Focus Range Limiter7. AF-ON setting is also assignable, as well as multiple AF modes including AF-S, AF-C and AF-A, which can be easily adjusted based on user preferences and shooting situations.

An ideal complement to the AF system, the RX10 IV offers continuous high-speed shooting at up to 24 fps2 with full AF/AE tracking, with an impressive buffer limit of up to 249 images8. With the significant improvements in processing power for the new camera, EVF display lag during continuous shooting has been substantially reduced, allowing shooters to capture the decisive moment with ultimate confidence. Also, for convenience during image playback, continuously shot images can be displayed in groups instead of individual shots.

The RX10 IV also has a high speed Anti-Distortion Shutter (maximum shutter speed of up to 1/32000 second) that reduces the “rolling shutter” effect commonly experienced with fast moving subjects, and can shoot completely silently in all modes, including continuous high speed shooting, when electronic shutter is engaged. A mechanical shutter mode is also available as well if required by the user.

ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-600mm F2.4-F4 Lens

The 24-600mm3 ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* lens on the Cyber-shot RX10 IV camera features a large maximum aperture of F2.4-F4.0, helping it achieve outstanding image quality throughout the entire zoom range, all the way up to ultra-telephoto. It includes a super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass element and ED aspherical lenses to minimize chromatic aberration, and ZEISS® T* Coating to minimize flare and ghosting.

The lens also has built-in Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization that helps to reduce camera shake and image blur. When the feature is activated, it is equivalent to an approximate 4.5 steps shutter speed improvement.

Additionally, with a minimum focusing distance of 72 cm (2.36 ft) and 0.49x maximum magnification at a fully extended 600mm, the lens is capable of producing amazingly detailed tele-macro images.

Professional Video Capture

The new RX10 IV model becomes the latest Cyber-shot RX camera to offer the advantages of 4K (QFHD 3840 x 2160) movie recording, with its Fast Hybrid AF system realizing about 2x faster focusing speed compared to the RX10 III.

In 4K mode, the new RX10 IV utilizes full pixel readout without pixel binning, capturing approximately 1.7x more information than is required for 4K movie output to ensure that all the finest details are captured accurately. The camera utilizes the XAVC S™9 codec, recording video at a high data rate of up to 100 Mbps depending on shooting mode. Users have the option of shooting at either 24p or 30p in 4K mode (100 Mbps), or in frame rates of up to 120p in Full HD mode.

The new camera also has a variety of other professional caliber video features including Picture Profile, S-Log3/S-Gamut3, Gamma Display Assist, Proxy recording, Time Code / User Bit and more, as well as input for external microphone and output for headphone monitoring.

Super slow motion10 video recording is also available, with an extended duration of about 4 seconds (in quality priority mode) and 7 seconds (in shoot time priority). This unique feature gives users the ability to choose among 960fps, 480fps and 240 fps frame rates and among 60p, 30p and 24p playback formats11.

Upgraded Operation and Customization

The new RX10 IV features Sony’s latest 3.0-type 1.44M dot tiltable LCD screen with Touch Focus and Touch Pad function – another first for Cyber-shot RX series – for quick and smooth focusing operation, and WhiteMagic™ technology, ensuring that LCD viewing is bright and clear in even the harshest outdoor lighting conditions. Additionally, it is equipped with an approx. 2.35M dot high-contrast XGA OLED Tru-Finder™, ensuring true-to-life image preview and playback functionality. Triple lens rings for aperture, zoom and focus are also available, with a completely quiet, smooth option for the aperture ring that is ideal for video shooters.

To enhance customization, “My Menu” functionality has been added, allowing up to 30 frequently used menu items to be custom registered. Menus are color coded for easier recognition and navigation, and a new Movie Settings menu has been introduced to improve the overall video shooting experience.

The RX10 IV is also dust and moisture resistant12, and Wi-Fi®, NFC™ and Bluetooth® compatible.

Pricing and Availability

The new Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV camera will ship in October for about $1,700 US and $2,200 CA.

The new cameras and all compatible accessories will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America. More product information can be found HERE.

A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new RX10 IV cameras and other high-end Sony imaging products can also be found at www.alphauniverse.com , Sony’s community site built to educate, inspire and showcase all fans and customers of Sony imaging products. A full gallery of images from the camera can also be found HERE.

  1. Among fixed lens digital cameras with 1.0-type sensor. As of September 2017 press release, based on Sony research.
  2. With “Continuous shooting mode: Hi”.
  3. 35mm equivalent
  4. 3,840 x 2,160 pixels
  5. CIPA standard, internal measurement, at f=8.8mm (wide-end), EV6.8, Program Auto, Focus mode: AF-A, AF area: Center
  6. Approx. effective MP
  7. Only when 35mm-equivalent focal length is within 150-600mm range
  8. With “Continuous shooting mode: Hi” and “Image quality: Fine
  9. A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required to record movies in the XAVC S format. UHS-I (U3) SDHC/SDXC card is required for 100Mbps.
  10. Sound cannot be recorded. A class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required.
  11. In NSTC mode. Switch between NTSC and PAL using the menu.
  12. Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV specifications

Price
MSRP $1699
Body type
Body type SLR-like (bridge)
Body material Magnesium alloy, composite
Sensor
Max resolution 5472 x 3648
Other resolutions 4864 x 3648, 5472 x 3080, 3648 x 3648, 3648 x 2736, 3648 x 2592, 3648 x 2056, 2544 x 2544, 2736 x 1824, 2592 x 1944, 2720 x 1528, 1920 x 1920, 640 x 480
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 20 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 21 megapixels
Sensor size 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm)
Sensor size notes Stacked CMOS sensor
Sensor type BSI-CMOS
Processor Bionz X
Color space sRGB, AdobeRGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100 – 12800 (expands to 64-25600)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 64
Boosted ISO (maximum) 25600
White balance presets 9
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Optical
Image stabilization notes 4.5 stops correction
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Extra fine, standard, fine
File format
  • JPEG (EXIF v2.3)
  • Raw (Sony ARW 2.3)
Optics & Focus
Focal length (equiv.) 24–600 mm
Optical zoom 25×
Maximum aperture F2.4–4
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Digital zoom Yes (4X)
Manual focus Yes
Normal focus range 3 cm (1.18)
Macro focus range 3 cm (1.18)
Number of focus points 315
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3
Screen dots 1,440,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.7×
Viewfinder resolution 2,359,296
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/2000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/32000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Auto
  • Program auto
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Portrait
  • Sports Action
  • Macro
  • Landscape
  • Sunset
  • Night Scene
  • Handheld Twilight
  • Night Portrait
  • Anti Motion Blur
Built-in flash Yes
Flash range 10.80 m (at Auto ISO)
External flash Yes (Multi-interface shoe)
Flash modes Auto, fill-flash, slow sync, rear sync, off
Drive modes
  • Single
  • Continuous (Hi/Med/Lo)
  • Self-timer (single/cont.)
  • AE bracketing
  • WB bracketing
  • DRO bracketing
Continuous drive 24.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 10 sec, continuous)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format AVCHD, XAVC S
Videography notes High speed modes at 240, 480, 960 fps
Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 25 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n with NFC
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery and charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 400
Weight (inc. batteries) 1095 g (2.41 lb / 38.62 oz)
Dimensions 133 x 94 x 145 mm (5.24 x 3.7 x 5.71)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording No
GPS None

Sony a6500 Release V1.04 Firmware Update

Sony has released a new firmware 1.04 for their A6500 on 22nd August 2017.

What Does This Do?

This utility updates the camera firmware to version 1.04 and provides the following benefits:

Improvements over version 1.03

Improves image stabilization performance in movie mode

Download at:

Sony Bags 7 Categories in 2017 EISA Awards

Sony has been recognised by the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) for delivering inspiring products to its customers that are redefining the boundaries of what is possible in the imaging and home theatre markets. This year, Sony was honoured with a record seven awards, more than any other manufacturer and more than Sony has ever won in a single year.

EISA Camera of the Year 2017-2018: Sony α9

The Sony α9 is a groundbreaking mirrorless camera that in many ways surpasses traditional DSLR rivals. Thanks to an innovative design, the 24.2 million pixel full-frame image sensor captures up to 20 frames per second in full resolution with no EVF blackout and offers completely silent, vibration-free shooting at up to 1/32,000th second. The new super-fast autofocus system, with 693 phase detection AF points covering 93% of the image area, ensures that even fast-moving subjects are in focus. The 5-axis image stabilisation allows a 5-step slower shutter speed. The oversampling process and full-frame pixel read-out result in excellent 4K movie quality.

EISA Prosumer Compact System Camera: Sony α6500

The α6500 is a very small compact system camera offering professional performance. Whether you are a 4K video or stills photographer, the α6500 offers excellent image quality with its 24.2 million pixel Exmor CMOS APS-C sized sensor, high speed and great choice of lenses. The 5-axis image stabilisation works with Sony E-mount lenses as well as A-mount lenses with adapters. The 425 phase detection AF points cover almost the whole picture frame, while the 3in tiltable touch screen lets you choose focus points with your finger. The camera supports up to 11 frames per second shooting with continuous AF and metering with a buffer that supports up to 269 pictures in one sequence.

EISA Compact Camera 2017-2018: Sony RX100 V

The Sony RX100 V is a high-tech masterpiece in a very compact body. Like its predecessor, it offers a 1.0-type sensor and an excellent retractable OLED electronic viewfinder. The new 20.1 million pixel Exmor RS CMOS image sensor, in conjunction with the fast BIONZ X image processor and a new front-end LSI, made it possible for Sony to shorten autofocus response time to 0.05sec and speed-up continuous shooting to 24 frames per second – with AF/AE tracking so that in a series of a moving subject, every picture stays in focus with the correct exposure. Besides the ability to shoot 4K videos, the RX100 V offers super slow motion up to 1000 frames per second, silent shooting and a multi-function control ring for personalised use.

EISA Superzoom Camera 2017-2018: Sony RX10 III

At just 1095g, the Sony RX10 III is the perfect camera for sports, nature and wildlife photographers looking for an easy to carry all-in-one solution. The stunning ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24-600mm lens provides a 25x zoom range with a fast f/2.4-4 maximum aperture, while the Exmor RS 1.0-type sensor, super-fast autofocus and Optical SteadyShot ensure sharp images free from camera shake. In addition to its incredible focal range, the RX10 III can shoot macro from as close as 3cm from the lens, while the silent shutter means you won’t disturb sensitive nature subjects. The RX10 III isn’t just great for stills – it also shoots 4K video and there is also the option to shoot at 1000 frames per second for a dramatic 40x slow motion effect.

EISA Compact System Lens 2017-2018: Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS

This 100mm telephoto prime lens offers the outstanding resolution of the G Master series, combined with STF (Smooth Trans Focus) optics for breathtaking bokeh. This lens has been designed to produce extraordinarily smooth, natural bokeh without vignetting. It also features fast, precise, and quiet DDSSM autofocus, and is capable of shooting 0.25x magnification close ups. Built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation minimises any blur caused by camera movements during long shutter times. The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS upholds the premium G Master concept in all respects.

EISA Professional Compact System Lens 2017-2018: Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS is an impressive lens covering the most popular angles for sports and action photography. Sharpness is extremely high and evenly distributed with almost no visible fall-off towards the edges. Sharpness is retained across the zoom range, even with tele-converters. It features a floating focusing system, implemented in an α zoom lens for the first time, that contributes to an impressive minimum focusing distance of merely 0.96m. The 11 rounded aperture blades ensure a beautiful bokeh, while the autofocus speed is super quick, in particular with the very fast Sony α9. Finally, the FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS is built for heavy use under all weather conditions.

EISA Home Theatre TV 2017-2018: Sony KD-65ZD9

Sony’s 4K flagship delivers an outstanding viewing experience, with excellent colour reproduction and best-in-class contrast, plus support of all major HDR formats (including a scheduled upgrade for Dolby Vision). Key to its stunning picture from Ultra HD Blu-ray and 4K HDR streaming contents– even in a bright room – is Sony’s 4K HDR Processor, X1 Extreme, and the direct full-array LED local dimming technology, Backlight Master Drive, that deliver superb picture quality. The KD-65ZD9 is a premium home theatre display with the performance power to match and realizes the ultimate 4K HDR visual experience with extraordinary brightness, contrast, and vibrant colour.

A Third Autofocus Lens from Samyang – AF 35mm F2.8 FE

Samyang Introduces third autofocus lens – AF 35mm F2.8 FE

June 5th, 2017, Seoul, Korea – Global optics brand Samyang Optics, is pleased to announce the release of Samyang’s third autofocus lens: the AF 35mm F2.8 FE. A tiny lens with a mighty performance, it is ideal for daily photography as well as travel photography. This new compact and lightweight lens, together with the existing AF 14mm F2.8 FE and AF 50mm F1.4 FE lenses, now expands Samyang’s autofocus lens line-up to three.

Tiny and Mighty
The AF 35mm F2.8 FE weighs just 85g and measures 3.3cm in length, without the hood and rear cap, it is roughly the equivalent in weight of a bar of soap and smaller than a name card in size. Thanks to Samyang’s exceptional optical technology, its compact size is packed with features for outstanding image quality. Featuring seven elements in six groups, two aspherical lenses and one high refractive lens plus Ultra Multi Coating to minimise aberration and unnecessary light dispersion, the lens delivers high resolution from the centre to the corners of the image.

Perfect Partner for Everyday Photographers
This new lens is specifically designed to work in harmony with full frame mirrorless cameras in Sony E mount. For full frame sensors, the focal length resembles the human eye the most. For APS-C types for Sony alpha 6000 and 5000 series users the lens is equivalent to approximately 52mm, which is also one of the most popular focal lengths among photographers.

Portability with mighty performance and a 35mm focal length makes this lens the best choice for daily photographers who want to capture every memory as a high quality image. The autofocus is fast and accurate and is ideal for the capture of outdoor events such as hiking, sports events and landscape photography. It also has a minimum focusing distance of 0.35m and is ideal for street, portrait and close focus photography.

Available from July 2017
This tiny and mighty Samyang 35mm F2.8 FE lens will be available from July, and will carry a suggested retail price of £279.99 inc VAT.

Samyang AF 35mm F2.8 FE specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 35 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Optics
Elements 7
Groups 6
Special elements / coatings Two aspherical + one high-refractive element + Ultra Multi Coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.35 m (13.78)
Maximum magnification 0.12×
Autofocus Yes
Full time manual No
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 85 g (0.19 lb)
Diameter 62 mm (2.44)
Length 33 mm (1.3)
Sealing No
Colour Black
Filter thread 49.0 mm
Tripod collar No