BEST $500 Camera - DSLR vs Mirrorless vs SuperZoom in 2019

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The Best $500 Camera in 2019

Table of Contents
DSLRS - Nikon D5300 vs Canon T6 01:30
Why buy a DSLR 02:15
Mirrorless Cameras - Canon M100 vs Panasonic G7 8:20
Point & Shoot Canon SX70HS vs Fuji XF10 21:25
Conclusions 33:18

Purchase Cameras from B&H Photo and support our work.

Fuji XF10: https://bhpho.to/2HOmGkt
Nikon D3500: https://bhpho.to/2HTyphu
Canon PS SX70HS: https://bhpho.to/2HSlcWb
Panasonic Lumix G7: https://bhpho.to/2HSlvjN
Canon EOS M100: https://bhpho.to/2Jh6gzy
Canon Rebel T6: https://bhpho.to/2HRinVr



Sony a9 Firmware Version 5.0 Released

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SCROLL DOWN FOR HANDS-ON VIDEO Sony a9 Gains Powerful New Autofocus Capabilities and More Through Software Version 5.0 Update
Sony’s industry-leading a9 camera has received a significant software update that brings AI-driven autofocus capabilities to its award-winning autofocus (AF) system, improves image quality, and introduces a range of customer-requested workflow improvements. Autofocus advanced firmware version 5.0 for the Sony a9 adds Sony’s newly-developed, AI-driven Real-time Tracking mode for precise and robust subject tracking. Real-time Tracking uses Sony’s latest AF algorithm—which includes Artificial Intelligence-based object recognition—to detect and follow subjects with unprecedented accuracy. Real-time Tracking AF works in conjunction with Real-time Eye AF, also added with Firmware version 5.0. The latest iteration of Sony’s best-in-class Eye AF technology, Real-time Eye AF also uses AI-based object recognition, resulting in an unprecedented level of speed and performance for locking on and holding focus on a subject’s eyes. Additionally, with Real-time Eye AF, users can now activate eye detection via a half-press of the shutter release, and can enjoy focus tracking accuracy even if a subject’s eyes are temporarily obscured during shooting. Also added with firmware 5.0 is Fast Hybrid AF for video, which now provides smoother, more accurate focus during video shooting, even if/when objects move in front of the subject.
Image Quality
Firmware version 5.0 offers notably improved image processing, which maximizes the capabilities of the full-frame sensor. The camera now more accurately reproduces subtle changes in light for smoother, more natural tonal gradations and improved auto white balance results.
Improved Usability And Workflow
With Firmware version 5.0, the Sony a9 adds several customer-requested features:New My Dial menuRevised Custom Key menuImproved touchpad capability,Enhanced dual-card functionalityEnhanced tagging
Imaging Edge
Sony is also announcing the release of Imaging Edge™ mobile applications, plus updates to the ‘Remote,’ ‘Viewer’ and ‘Edit’ desktop applications that brings exciting new features to all Sony imaging customers. For professional photographers, Sony is also releasing a new mobile application ‘Transfer & Tagging add-on’ that supports instant delivery workflow by allowing users to transfer content to their mobile devices via the camera’s FTP background transfer functionality. It also enables voice input for text captioning to streamline overall workflow between photographers and other team members.


Sony a9 Fimware Pagehttps://www.sony.com/electronics/support/e-mount-body-ilce-9-series/ilce-9/articles/00220555
Direct Download Links ILCE-9 Update file (for Windows)              
File name : Update_ILCEV500.exehttp://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/download/NEX/gAduGQ8ZJz/Update_ILCE9V500.exe?fm=am

ILCE-9 Update file (for Mac)              
File name : Update_ILCE9V500.dmghttp://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/download/NEX/gAduGQ8ZJz/Update_ILCE9V500.dmg?fm=am



Sony 135mm F1.8 G Master

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Sony Announces New Full-frame 135mm F1.8 GM; Prime Lens with Stunning Resolution and Bokeh, Excellent AF Performance

Press Headline Above - Press Release Below our Hands-on Video


Preorder Sony FE 135 f/1.8 GM from B&H Photo - $1,798.00

SAN DIEGO — Feb. 26, 2019 —Sony Electronics Inc today introduced a highly anticipated addition to their acclaimed G Master series of full-frame E-mount interchangeable lenses – a 135mm F1.8 full-frame,large-aperture telephoto prime lens (model SEL135F18GM).

Equipped with Sony’s most advanced optical technologies, the new lens is built to meet the extremely high standards of Sony’s G Master series. The new FE 135mm F1.8 GM offers exceptionally high resolution and exquisite bokeh, two qualities that are signature attributes of Sony’s flagship G Master brand.  The new lens combines rapid autofocus (AF) acquisition with a lightweight, portable design and a variety of professional functions, making it a versatile, high-performance tool for professional portrait photographers, wedding photographers, sports photographers and a wide variety of imaging enthusiasts.    

“Sony’s commitment to growing our lensline up remains stronger than ever,” said Neal Manowitz, vice president of imaging solutions at Sony Electronics.  “Our 31st native full-frame FE lens and 49th overall E-mount lens, the highly anticipated 135mm prime brings the acclaimed G Master quality to another popular focal length for both professionals and enthusiasts to enjoy. We will continue to drive market-leading innovation in all aspects of our imaging business, giving our customers the opportunity to capture and create like they never have before.”

Realizing consistently high resolution across the entire frame, even at F1.8, the FE 135mm F1.8GM boasts an innovative optical design that places XA (extreme aspherical) and Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements in the front group to effectively suppress all common telephoto lens aberrations. Additionally, the Super ED element plus one ED glass element are strategically positioned to compensate for axial chromatic aberration, minimize color fringing and maximize overall resolution, ensuring outstanding image quality. For impressive clarity, Sony’s unique Nano AR Coating is applied to reduce flare and ghosting that can occur when shooting backlit portraits.  

The new telephoto prime lens utilizes its XA element, refined with Sony’s latest bokeh simulation technologies during the design and manufacturing stages, to control spherical aberration and achieve exquisite bokeh. In addition, an 11-bladed circular aperture mechanism contributes towards achieving extremely natural and beautiful background defocus. The exciting new model also features dual-autofocus groups in a floating focus arrangement for improved close-up capability, allowing a minimum focus distance of just 0.7 meters and a maximum magnification of 0.25x.  

To ensure that this lens can keep up with fast-moving portrait or sports subjects, the FE 135mm F1.8 GM has been equipped with a total of four of Sony’s proprietary XD linear motors—two for each group—that achieve rapid, reliable and speedy AF tracking and performance. There is also a control algorithm that helps to maximize control response and ensure quiet, low-vibration AF. All of this exceptional performance is packaged in a compact, lightweight body weighing in at 33.6 oz.  

The FE 135mm F1.8 GM includes a number of professional controls that enhance ease of operation for both stills and movie shooting. These include an aperture ring that allows direct, intuitive aperture control and a focus ring that features Linear Response MF for fine, responsive manual focus control. There is also a focus range limiter switch,  two customizable focus hold buttons, and a focus-mode switch that makes it possible to quickly select auto or manual focus to match changing shooting conditions.

New Circular Polarizing Filters

In addition to the new FE 135mm F1.8 GM Lens, Sony has also announced a new lineup of Circular Polarizing Filters. The new filters, including models for lens diameters 49mm, 55mm, 62mm, 67mm, 72mm, 77mm and 82mm, preserve image quality and resolution about twice[i]as effectively as  Sony’s existing circular PL filter lineup, making them a perfect partner for Sony’s flagship G Master series lens. They also feature a ZEISS® T* Coating to minimize flare and a slim filter design to prevent image vignetting and maximize overall performance.  

Pricing and Availability

The FE 135mm F1.8 GM will ship in late April 2019 for approximately $1,900 US and $2,600 CA. The lens will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America.

The new circular polarizer filters will ship in May2019, with approximate pricing outlined below:

  • 49mm (model VF49CPAM2) - $100 US / $130 CA

  • 55mm (model VF55CPAM2) - $110 US / $150 CA

  • 62mm (model VF62CPAM2) - $140 US / $190 CA

  • 67mm (model VF67CPAM2) - $155 US / $200 CA

  • 72mm (model VF72CPAM2) - $165 US / $220 CA

  • 77mm (model VF77CPAM2) - $180 US / $240 CA

  • 82mm (model VF82CPAM2) - $230 US / $300 CA

Canon Announces the EOS RP

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZP5-V64vJwgBrand New Full Frame Mirrorless at an Extremely Reasonable PriceCanon has just announced the EOS RP - the second camera in their new, full frame, mirrorless line.  Two impressive facts about this camera  - A new full frame camera being offered at $1299* and the body size and weight is smaller/less than the Canon Rebel DSLR line.*And that $1299 price includes EOS R adapter to fit EF lenses and a small colored grip too.Full Spec List

  • 26.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor

  • 4K at 25fps at 120Mb/s 8-bit internal

  • DIGIC 8 Image Processor

  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF

  • 2.36m-Dot Electronic Viewfinder

  • 3" Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD

  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity

I liked the Canon EOS R but felt that at $2399 it wasn't a great value - mostly an AF system that just wasn't as fast as I would like and beaten solidly by the Sony a7iii in AF performance and 4K video. But this RP at $1000 less in a smaller lighter package becomes very compelling. The RP is still going to have the those Continuous AF issues and the crop when shooting 4k is annoying but again, at this price point I can forgive those issues - no other full frame camera is offered at this price point.Canon EOS RP Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) $1299- includes EOS R Adapter- Includes EG-E1 Extension GripCanon EOS RP with 24-105 RF $2199 (Excellent Value)- includes EOS R Adapter- Includes EG-E1 Extension Grip

View this post on Instagram

It’s official and I am impressed - The CANON EOS RP - A tiny full frame mirrorless camera from Canon. The headline here is the price (which includes an EF Adapter and colored grip) and the small lightweight size. Just $1299 for a new Full Frame Mirrorless Camera with Canon’s user friendly menu system and full articulated touch screen Just $2199 with the excellent 24-105 RF Lens - a great combination. Preorder now - Shipping near the end of the month. Learn more including my concerns at the link in my bio. Or visit photorec.tv/EOSRP #canon #EOSGear #CanonUSA #canongear #EOSR #ESORP

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on Feb 13, 2019 at 9:44pm PST

We also have word that by the end of 2019 Canon will release 6 more RF lensesThe details of the new Canon RF lenses under development are as follows:The RF 85mm F1.2 L USM is a large aperture mid-telephoto prime lens. It offers excellent performance for advanced and professional portrait photographers and is a widely popular focal length and aperture speed combination for users.The RF 85mm F1.2 L USM DS, with Defocus Smoothing lens technology, is a uniquely designed lens that offers a combination of beautifully smooth defocused bokeh. Featuring a super-fast F1.2 aperture, the lens will help produce breathtaking portraits that will surely stand out from the crowd.The RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM is a high-performance, standard zoom lens for professionals and photo enthusiasts alike – ideal for shooting portraits, landscapes, documentaries or weddings.The RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM, offering a wide angle and fast aperture in a single package is ideal for a variety of shooting applications including architecture, interiors or landscapes.The RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM is a must-have for any professional photographer, especially for those shooting weddings, sports or wildlife. This lens is a great all-around, high-speed, medium telephoto zoom lens and does well to round out any camera bag.The RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM is the ideal lens for amateurs and advanced amateurs who love to travel, no matter the destination. The versatile, all-purpose lens offers a range of focal lengths for capturing extraordinary shots in a form factor that is both compact and lightweight.

Your Best Photo of 2018

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 Make sure you are a subscriber to be notified when the slideshow is posted.  Click to subscribe and be notified. I am collecting your ONE best/favorite photo from 2018 for the 5th annual slide show. Read ALL Directions and Disclaimers.Directions:

  • Search your library for your favorite image you captured in 2018.

  • 16:9 horizontal crop is preferred but not required. - This fits the video nicely but portrait or vertical orientation is acceptable.

  • You may watermark your image with a small watermark in the lower left or right corner.

  • Export as a JPEG - longest side at least 4,000 pixels - If it is not at least 4,000 pixels on a side it will NOT be included in the show.

  • Name the file your firstname_lastname and drop into the folder found at the link below. - If your image is not properly named it will not be used.

  • Submit by MIDNIGHT PST December 20th.

NOTE: iOS devices ignore your file name when you upload and all I get is a IMAGE.JPEG filename. IF THE FILE IS NOT PROPERLY NAMED your firstname_lastname I will not use.   Please upload from desktop or laptop to avoid this.Disclaimers:

  • By submitting your image here you authorize photorec.tv to share your image in a slideshow on Youtube. Your image will not be used for anything else without your express permission.

  • I will not return images - make sure you don't give me the ONLY one.

  • I am not responsible for copyright violations that occur on Youtube.

  • I cannot guarantee that I will use your image - many images will be submitted, some will not be selected

 >> Submit here >>

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT ONE PHOTO

The slideshow for 2017

Cyber Monday Deals - 2018

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B&H Deal ZoneNew Deals on B&H hourly

Just Updated the Sony Lens Savings Page

TODAY ONLY

Slim, portable USB battery with unique magnet mount  - charge your phone or camera. Just $14.99. Great gift! Buy from B&H Photo.

The fun and very giftable FujiFilm Instax Camera with film pack included for the lowest price ever - just $59
DSLR photographers - Focal Pro is the easiest way to ensure ALL your lenses and bodies are correctly calibrated for maximum sharpness. Today's B&H Deal offers Focal Pro for just $89! See my video on this software.

Deals ending soon

Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body and Flash KitThe fantastic Sony a9 $1000 off plus the excellent Godox flash unit & TWO SD Cards- The most powerful Sony mirrorless with 20fps, 4k video, and amazing battery life plus the excellent Godox flash provide a system capable of indoor and outdoor photography. Buy at B&H Photo

 Canon T6 - Solid starter DSLR for new photographers or photographers looking to upgrade from a P&S camera. Just $449 limited time provides a DSLR and TWO lenses plus a bag and SD card. Everything you need to get started. Buy at B&H Photo

 

Moment Lenses - Best Lenses for Smartphones

SD Card Deals

Two 128GB Lexar fast enough for 4K Just $99Two 64GB Cards for $49

Good Budget OptionFast enough for most use128GB for just $39!

Manufacturer Wide Deals

Canon Deals are live now and include significant savings on bodies and include accessories and bodies include 13 months of accidental damage protection. This is HUGE!See all current Canon Deals for Cyber Monday 2018

Sony has just dropped the price on several models and bundled with awesome accessories like a 5TB hard drive. The awesome Sony a9 is $1000 off with an instant rebate. No messing with mail in rebates - just instant savings!See all current Sony Deals for Cyber Monday 2018

Flashpoint Adorama Sale

Amazon is running Cyber Monday deals ALL WEEK! They have a photo/video category of deals that include popular cameras and lenses along with tons of little accessories - many junky but some useful. The list changes hourly - check back often.Amazon Camera/Photo Holiday Shopping DealsFollow me on Kit for more Camera Deals/Lens and Accessories.https://kit.com/photorectoby/black-friday-2018

Better than a new camera/lens...

Gear comes and goes but the experiences you gain during a trip/adventure truly last a lifetime!  This is your opportunity to get a discount on a future McKay Photography Tour. EXTREMELY LIMITED AVAILABILITY!

GREAT GIFT - GREAT DISCOUNT - GREAT IDEAfor the photographer in your life (which might be you!)

Plans for All Budget Levels

This holiday season invest in yourself. Make 2019 the year you grow as a photographer!  Photo Enthusiast Network is the BEST photography education community on this planet! Buy now to lock in the discounted rate of just 8/mo for access to hundreds of tutorial videos (new ones added each week), weekly articles and community access that will support you and answer the questions you need answered to improve your photography!

The Best Camera Bags/Backpacks

Our friends at Think Tank Photo just announced their Black Friday specials.  It will put its popular Airport Advantage Plus rolling camera bag on sale at 50% over Black Friday weekend. In addition, several of its most popular camera bags will be on sale at 40% starting on Black Friday and through December 2nd.  And don’t forget, by using my special Web link when ordering, you will receive a free gift and free shipping on top of the discounts!

The Airport Advantage Plus rolling camera bag is designed specifically for traveling photographers. By it complying with international carry-on size and weight requirements, you can keep your most valuable gear safe and near you when flying.On sale at 40% through December 2nd are Think Tank’s Spectral shoulder bags, UltraLight backpacks, Signature shoulder bags, Sidepath backpack, and Multi-Mount holsters. The UltraLight backpacks are the lightest weight photo backpacks on the market. The Signature shoulder series are designed for wedding and other event photographers who seek a more elegant and discreet shoulder bag.My Favorite pro filter system is just $124 which includes a high-quality circular polarizer filter. More about the Nisi System

50% OFF the FANTASTIC filter holder

My Favorite Travel Laptop

My Favorite widows travel laptop is getting a rare and brief discount. The Huawei 13.9" MateBook X Pro is available for just $1349! This is a fantastic machine with touch screen and internal specs that are perfect for photo editing. Highly recommend if you are looking for a portable and stylish machine that can handle your editing needs while traveling. Huawei 13.9" MateBook X Pro Multi-Touch Notebook

Pixel 3 Review and Camera Review - Nightshot mode!!

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Mobile Photography Gear: https://kit.com/photorectoby/mobile-photography-gear

I am an android user I bought into the pixel line because it offered one of the most affordable flagship phones with a fantastic camera. Now with the launch of the Pixel 3 do I still feel the same?

It wasn’t just the camera that appeals to me about the pixel line - as an Android user the pure Google experiences, the frequent updates, knowing that at least for the next year or so you will get a phone that stays current.

Now I have the pixel 3 XL - provided by google - I wasn’t actually planning on upgrading - my Pixel 2 was still good enough - or I should say almost good enough - My biggest issue was the screen brightness - outside for photos or as a screen when flying the drone - it was not as bright as I would like and as good as the camera is - I do wish it had a more manual friendly control -

Let’s talk about my favorite features of this phone and then spend a little time looking at the camera in detail.

The screen - this is a beautiful screen on the 3 - it’s vibrant, bright I enjoy using it outside in bright sunlight and it feels color accurate, not overly saturated.

The clean google experience. I can uninstall every app on this phone, there is no annoying skin on top of the Android experience 

Call Screening - this is so cool. I have a call, not sure who it is - hit the screen call button and the assistant picks up with a recorded message - the callers' message will then be transcribed in real time letting me decide if I want to answer it.

Battery Life - just good solid performance and the addition of wireless charging is nice. This brings the pixel 3 in line with other flagship phones. 

It's not all good…

I do worry about future-proofing. With just 4GB of RAM in the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL when most are now offering 6 or in the next year or so 8. But at this time this phone is very snappy and I see no issues.

I did have some speaker crackling in the first few days and that has settled down and as other reviewers have mentioned - at higher volumes the back of the phone vibrates but I don’t really use the speakers at that level so it hasn’t bothererd me.

I do seem to fight the portrait vs horizontal rotation more often than I want which is annoying and then sometimes it seems to need a smack to know I have set it back upright/

The camera is fantastic!

It’s just really good. Consistently excellent results with fantastic dynamic range. And that new Night shot mode that is coming is stunningly good. It’s some kind of voodoo magic good - THAT GOOD.

NightshotvsPixel3.jpg

Pixel 3 on the left Sony a7RIII on the right!

Portrait mode where Google uses the algorithm to determine the subject and artificially blurs the background has noticeably improved and gives me good, consistent results. And even though this is called portrait mode you can use it on anything at all.

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You can now easily switch the camera to capture RAW and what I found on the pixel 2 - Capturing RAW photos wasn't worth it - the dedicated image processor inside deals with noise and detail better than any post-processing software you can throw the image into but the RAWs from the Pixel 3 are a different story - these are RAWs that look great and respond well to editing.  But I still find that the JPEG processed by Google is fantastic and I rarely want to edit the images.

The camera continues to impress me the only areas it is lacking - close focusing is limited compared to some other flagship phones BUT if you use the super zoom feature you can get some stunning results. With any system, if you want awesome macro with this phone consider picking up the Moment lens macro.

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Basic Controls - the camera app is clean and streamlined but I do wish you could switch to a more manual friendly control - I find that useful for focusing and playing with slightly longer exposures - the Huawei Mate 10 pro I reviewed earlier this year allows 30 second exposures, The Note 9 from Samsung allows 10 seconds in pro mode. The Pixel 3 is limited to 1/4 second and you have to use a 3rd party app it's not a deal breaker but having that control greatly improves the flexibility and versatility of this camera. Still - an all-around impressive camera at a price that I find a bit more reasonable than many of the competitors. If image quality is an important factor in your purchase of a phone - the Pixel 3 will make you happy.

https://kit.com/photorectoby/mobile-photography-gear

Mobile Photography Gear

Sigma 14mm FE vs Venus Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero D - AF vs MF, $1600 vs $900

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Two wide angles with similar field of view and max aperture but that is where the similarities end! The Sigma 14mm f/1.8 ART FE Wide Angle Lens vs the Venus Laowa 15mm Zero-D f/2.0 FE Lens with manual focus. Which wide angle is better for the Sony Alpha System (FE Mount Wide Angle Lens Battle)



Buy the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 ART $1598 [Buy from B&H Photo]

Buy the Venus Laowa 15mm f/2.0 Zero-D $849 [Buy from B&H Photo]

RAW FILES FOR DOWNLOAD

Access the RAW Files  from the Sigma and Venus Lenses

Additional Wide Angle Reviews



Wide Angles for Every Budget!


Sigma 14-24 f/2.8 ART




Canon EOS R - Announced

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The Canon EOS R  - Canon Reimagining the Future! Be the RevolutionStressing that you should ADD this to your kit. It is NOT replacing the current EOS system.

  • FULLY COMPATIBLE with CURRENT EF and EF-S lenses! No compromising when you use adapters. (my experience is a slight, very slight compromise)

    • Three adapters maintaining all current lens systems

      • Standard (small compact adapter)

      • Standard with customizable control ring (also found on the new RF mount lenses) - Control ring can be assigned a variety of functions from ISO to Exposure Compensation

      • Adapter with drop-in CPL or ND filter lens. This lets you use small rear filters with ANY lens.

      • Same diameter lens mounts with a decreased distance to the sensor.

      • Decreased distance means the front element can be smaller and more compact.

      • Enhanced overall optical performance. Easier to offer f/1.2 lenses

      • 12 electronics contacts offer the fastest communication of any Canon mount system and enhanced IS in future

New Multifunction slide control - Customizable with swipe and left or right tap actions. After using this feature for a few days I am not a fan. Learn more in this video.Very customizable in general - even the mode dial can be assigned a different function and customizability extend to different functions for buttons when you are in photo andvideo modes.New Flexible Priority(FV) AE mode - A slightly more automatic manual mode - You choose what to adjust and rest of settings will follow suit. A faster way to switch which setting you want.That fully articulating touchscreen experience that so many love that Canon provides very well. The touchscreen can also function as a touchpad (when you are using the EVF)EVF is big, bright and beautiful. Good display of info inside that is customizable with the level of info.Low light focusing capable to -6 EV with a f/1.2 lens VERY IMPRESSIVE. Also offers Eye AF or Face detect but I found Eye AF to be finicky and Eye AF does not work in Continuous AF mode.The BadOne Card Slot (this make the camera less exciting for many professionals)Eye AF does not work but face detection works very well.AF is good but not fast and burst rate with continuous AF falls to just 3 fps.No built-in intervalometer but there is time-lapse movie mode.Strength - Canon shooter with existing lenses looking for the future of the Canon system - this is a solid start. I think we will see a more pro level version within the next year if not sooner.The Canon EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available in October 2018 for an estimated retail price of $2299  for the body only. It will also be sold as a body-and-lens kit with the new RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens for $3399.SPECS - 

  • MP: 30MP Full Frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8

  • File Format: JPEG, RAW (14 bit), C-RAW w/ Dual pixel RAW support

  • EVF: OLED 0.71x Magnification

  • Low Light Focusing: EV –6

  • AF - Dual Pixel CMOS AF wurg 565 manually selectable AF points

  • ISO sensitivity: 100 to 40000 (extended ISO: 50, 51200, 102400)

  • Shutter speed: 1/8000 to 30 seconds (Bulb)

  • Flash Sync: 1/200 second

  • Continuous shooting performance: 8 fps w/ servo AF 5 fps

  • Video: 4K at 30p, 1080p FullHD at 60p, 720p at 120p Canon Log and 10bit 4:2:2 HDMI output

  • LCD Screen: 3.15" 3.69M dots full touchscreen

  • Recording Media: 1 SD / SDHC / SDXC card slot

  • Battery: LP-E6N / LP-E6 battery ~ 450 shots per charge - USB charging inside the camera with LP-E6N

  • Advanced Control (swipe bar)

  • Advanced Durability

  • Size: 135.8 x 98.3 x 84.4 mm

  • Weight: 660 g (including battery / memory card) · 580 g (body only)

Availability and Pricing

The Canon EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available in October 2018 for an estimated retail price of $2299  for the body only. It will also be sold as a body-and-lens kit with the new RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens for $3399.

Four new R-mount lenses

  • RF 24-105 f/4 Canon Nano USM focus motor (evolution)

  • RF 28-70 f/2 Zoom (world's first zoom lens at f/2 for full frame) Expected to be sharper //Revolution than most primes

  • RF 50mm f/1.2 L

  • RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro - Street shooting and 1/2 macro size lens

Sony 1.4x and 2x Teleconverters. How Good Are They?

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I use the Sony 1.4x and 2.0x Teleconverters with the Sony 100-400GM Lens and share results on image quality, focus speed and focus performance while searching the Arctic for polar bears. Tested with the Sony a7RIII and Sony 100-400 GM paired with the 1.4x Tele and 2.0x Tele.https://youtu.be/A6Seehp2imkI found the optical performance of the 1.4x and 2x teleconverters when matched with the Sony 100-400 GM to be absolutely fantastic. Colors, contrast, and clarity all remain excellent. But there are drawbacks - watch the video above for the full story.Buy Links (Your use of these links supports reviews like this)Sony a7RIII: https://bhpho.to/2i7Z3F8Sony 100-400 FE f/4.5-5.6 GM: https://bhpho.to/2JIxM7FSony 70-200 f/2.8 GM: https://bhpho.to/2LfkuoTSony 1.4x FE Tele: https://bhpho.to/2JGWntMSony 2.0x FE Tele: https://bhpho.to/2Lev1APDownload RAW Photos to evaluate (For your personal use only)[gallery td_select_gallery_slide="slide" td_gallery_title_input="Sont Teleconverter Samples" ids="18611,18613,18612"]

Sony 1.4x & 2.0x Teleconverter Photos from the Arctic

[gallery ids="18615,18616,18617,18618,18619,18620"]

Want to see more from my arctic expedition?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xyi9zkr30O0

Canon EOS m50 Review - Crippled Camera? Worthless 4k Video?

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I took the Canon EOS m50 to Joshua Tree NP for a week of astrophotography. I have some thoughts on this camera and most of them are not good - but there are a few gems in this overhyped 4k camera.https://youtu.be/V5Y2L6sF0RUBuy Canon EOS m50Buy Panasonic G85Panasonic G85 Review (Probably a better value for most)Sample Photos - Canon EOS m50

4k Video footage - coming soonACCESS FULL RAW IMAGES FROM CANON EOS m50

Gearing Up for Summer Photography With Clients

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Gearing Up for Summer Photography with Clients | http://www.roseclearfield.com Summer is an ideal time for outdoor photography sessions with clients. With long daylight hours and numerous options for beautiful settings, the possibilities to create stunning photography are endless. However, without careful planning, you may find yourself or your clients crabby and overheated in stifling shooting conditions. Take the extra time to brush up on gearing up for summer photography with clients and prepare appropriately for your client sessions to beat the heat and make beautiful images.

Choose locations and session times to minimize exposure to sun and heat

Landscape often impacts temperature significantly, particularly during the warmer months of the year. When you’re preparing for outdoor photography sessions, consider locations to create cool backdrops, such as low lying and wooded areas. When clients request hotter locations, such as the top of a hill or on a rooftop patio, plan your timing carefully to keep everyone comfortable. Book summer sessions earlier in the day or later in the evening to avoid the hottest hours of the day and take advantage of optimal lighting. When the timing it out of your control, such as during a wedding, limit the wedding party’s exposure to direct sunlight, so no one overheats.

Expand your session location offerings

There are so many fun activities and events in the summer that lend themselves naturally to creative photography shoots. Offer to meet a family or engaged couple at the local fair, outdoor concert venue, art festival, or circus for a quick session. You’ll have one of a kind backdrops and props right at your fingertips. Use the new location to highlight a couple or family’s favorite summer activity, creating memories and photos they’ll cherish for years to come.

Keep water bottles and cool treats on hand

Staying hydrated is critical for optimal health and well-being during the summer. On warm days, always have a few water bottles on hand and give clients frequent water breaks during longer shoots. When you’ll be on location for a while or you’re working with young children, consider bringing some cool treats, such as Popsicles, as well. The clients will appreciate the refreshing snack, and you may get a few cute photos out of the treat break.

Bring battery-powered fans and other supplies for quick comfort

Battery-powered fans and water misters are inexpensive and go a long way toward providing relief during steamy summer photography sessions. Cold, wet towels are another great option. Store them in a small cooler or large Ziploc bag to avoid getting your car wet. If you’re bringing a cooler, store your water bottles in it for increased comfort. In addition to drinking the water, give clients periodic opportunities to wet down their wrists with water to stay cool.

Provide essential summer items

While you’re stocking your car and photography bag for summer sessions with clients, grab a few extra summer essentials. At a minimum, bring sunscreen and bug spray, especially when you’re photographing clients on the beach or in the woods. Select varieties that are not greasy and do not have strong scents. Think about storing a basic first aid kit in the car and keeping a few perfumes and deodorants in your bag as well.

Don’t forget about your own comfort

It’s easy to get so caught up in planning for your clients that you’re not thinking about yourself and how you’ll stay comfortable during summer sessions. Build a small collection of outfits for client sessions that look professional and keep you cool. If you have long hair, stash a few hairbands in your bag. Keeping some spare clothes in your car for quick changes in between sessions or on exceptionally hot days isn’t a bad idea either.

Put together a style guide for your clients

Planning what to wear to a photo shoot is stressful for many couples and families. Your clients want to look their best while staying cool and feeling like themselves. Creating a style guide with outfit planning tips, such as sticking to coordinating neutrals, and other recommendations to help a photo shoot go smoothly, such as getting your hair and makeup done professionally, takes a lot of the guesswork out for clients. Don’t forget about the little details as well, such as urging women and girls who want to wear flip-flops or open-toed shoes to get a pedicure that week. They’ll feel more confident about their appearances when they arrive, ensuring they’re relaxed and ready for a great session.Encourage clients to bring their own warm weather supplies and photo shoot essentials as well. While it’s always great to be prepared and have extras on hand for clients, many people feel most comfortable using a familiar hairspray or sunscreen.

Reassure your clients that you’ll keep them cool

When you meet or speak with clients prior to a session, give them every assurance that you are experienced shooting in the heat and will take steps to keep them comfortable during their session. Reviewing the precautions that you’ll take, such as bringing cold water bottles and taking frequent breaks in the shade, will put them at ease.

Do you have any tips for gearing up for summer photography with clients?

We’d love to hear your input!

 

Photography Spring Cleaning Tips

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Photography Spring Cleaning Tips | http://photorec.tvSpring is an ideal time to do a little photography spring cleaning. Spending time with your gear, organizing your images, and establishing some new habits ensures you’re ready for a fabulous season of shooting ahead. The following photography spring cleaning tips will walk you through the essential steps to take for a thorough cleaning.

Clean all of your camera bodies, lenses, and filters

First, use a rocket air blaster to clean visible dust and debris off the outside of your camera bodies and lenses, taking care to clean every crevice. Please don’t use canned air, as the chemicals it emits damages lens coatings and other elements of photography gear. Second, with the lens caps on, apply a keyboard cleaning product to the outside of your camera body and lenses to get in the tiny cracks in your gear an air blower can’t access. Finally, finish your gear cleaning by taking a microfiber lens cleaning cloth, lens pen, or moistened lens cleaning wipes to clean lens glass, lens caps, filters, and camera body LCD screens.

Assess the condition of your sensors

Many photographers are afraid to clean their own camera sensors because there are so many warnings from camera manufacturers and local camera shops. If you’re new to the process of sensor cleaning, take your camera to the local shop, so you can watch how it’s done right. Once you know how to clean a camera sensor, you can complete the process at home. Make sure to get the right size sensor cleaning kit from Visible Dust or VSGO, which will include a cleaning substance and specially sized swabs.

Check your metadata and copyright data

If you live in an area that follows daylight savings time, update the time in your camera after daylight savings time. Don’t forget to update your copyright data once a year as well. You can update your copyright data in camera or in Lightroom.

Do a photography gear inventory check

Take all of your photography gear off the shelves and out of your camera bag. If there are spare items lying around your house, such as memory cards and chargers, round them up as well. Make a master list of your photography gear, so you know exactly what you have and can avoid buying duplicates or searching for items you don’t remember if you own.Once you’ve inventoried your gear, consider selling gear that you no longer need or use. While it’s nice to have a spare camera body and an extra lens or two, keeping a lot of extra gear on hand that you never use doesn’t make sense. If you’re in the market for new gear, selling older items will help fund those purchases. If there isn’t anything you want to sell right away, start taking note of how often you use each piece of gear. When spring cleaning rolls around next year, and there’s gear you haven’t touched since the last cleaning, it may be time to let it go.

Organize your hard drive and external drive(s)

Creating and sticking to a hard drive photo organization system ensures you can find images when you need them quickly and easily. For most people, the simplest way to organize photos is by date. Create a folder for each year and then within it, a folder for each month. File all of your photos in their corresponding month folders with clear titles, such as “3.29.18 Alex’s Birthday Party” or “Grand Canyon Vacation May 2018.” Once you’ve organized your hard drive, take a look at your external drives as well, cleaning them up as needed.

Implement an image backup system

The best photo backup system is the rule of three, which is as follows: three copies of anything you care about, two different formats, and one off-site backup. I know that many people are reluctant to pay for off-site backup. However, it’s well worth every penny and will save your butt if anything happens to your computer, or worse, your home. Personally, I think that the easiest way to follow this backup system is to use a hard drive, external drive, and automatic cloud backup service, such as Carbonite. When you’ve finished editing images, save them to your hard drive and external drive. The cloud backup service will pick up these images automatically.

Clean up your Lightroom catalog

Opening up Lightroom and seeing a messy catalog every time is stressful and overwhelming. Start by clearing out folders you’ve finished editing and no longer need in Lightroom. Then assess the remaining folders. Organize anything that isn’t well labeled. Work through your Lightroom folders one at a time, culling the images you want to edit and deleting files you won’t ever touch for various reasons (i.e. blurry, too dark, poorly framed, etc.).

Don’t forget about the photos on your phone, too!

When I think about cleaning up my photos, I always think about my DSLR photos. However, like many people, even though I own a DSLR camera, I shoot quite a bit with my phone, too. I recommend periodically downloading all of your phone photos onto your computer, deleting the ones you don’t need, and organizing the ones that you do need. If you use an automatic phone photo backup service (which is a good idea if you take pictures on your phone you wouldn’t want to lose), such as Google Photos, go ahead and delete all of the original images off your phone. Then clean up your Google Photos account instead.

Do you have any additional photography spring cleaning tips?

Feel free to share them in the comments!

Get 2x more zoom with ANY LENS with the Sony a7RIII

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Super Zoom Video with the Sony a7RIII

https://youtu.be/1-slnohI_csWhen shooting video with the Sony a7RIII you have two modes you can make use of to more than double your zoom.

  • I have on the 100-400 and at 400 I can turn on aps-c crop which gives me an additional 1.5x crop 400 x 1.5 = 600mm

  • Turn on Clear Image Zoom and you can zoom in an additional 1.5x for a 900mm reach.

There is no quality loss - this is still beautiful 4k footage! 

I mentioned this in my review of the lens - if you have the 1.4x teleconverter you can get some ridiculous reach while still shooting beautiful 4k footage. (1260mm!) Your noise does start to increase and stabilizing your camera at these longer distances can be difficult.What I really like about the a7Riii - you can assign custom buttons for each mode of the camera (stills, video, playback) During video I have assigned C4 to turn on APS-C mode and the AEL button to turn on clear zoom.  Once clear zoom is active you can adjust the amount of zoom with the joystick or the control wheel. There are two modes of clear zoom - stay away from the Digital zoom THAT WILL degrade quality.

Buy Sony a7RIII: B&H | Amazon

Sony 100-400 Review: B&H | AmazonSony 1.4x TeleConverter: B&H | AmazonMeFoto Tripod: B&H | Amazon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tw2l6sd-3oI

Mish Mash Highlights: 4/11/2018

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Photography news

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on

This week's photography news and more with the Mish Mash Highlights. Want to mount an iPhone to a 70-200? It might sound crazy but that's an option this week with a new adapter.Toby's back this week with the live show as well. It's the same material you get here, but straight from the man himself while you can talk to the PEN community in a group chat. If that sounds good sign up to PEN today at photoenthusiastnetwork.com. The live show is just a bonus to a ton of great content.

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby?We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

New for PEN, join today at Photorec.tv/PEN

  • Tuesday Tips -The F Stops Here! - Getting started with controlling aperture

WPPI Panasonic Booth - Quick look at GX9 and G9 from PanasonicToby spends a few moments with the Panasonic Gx9 and G9. Talking briefly about the Canon M50 and the Panasonic Gx9

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.This Adapter Lets You Mount Any Giant Lens On Your Tiny SmartphoneWhile manual only, including aperture, check out this neat adapter that lets you shoot with a smartphone. Essentially digiscoping, shooting through a scope, you can use a large variety of lenses (Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony E). It's a neat idea if a niche item, hit the link for a video for more!Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is a different beastA smaller micro four-thirds design almost in line with the GH5 with 4K at 60 fps. At $1200 it's an interesting choice and a bit of competition for Panasonic.Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_pets3

It’s been a furry week with some nice photos! Glad to see some silly shots this week with the cold weather up here in Michigan. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_architecture3A focus on buildings this week, try to focus on shapes and lines as a lot of it will be drawing the eye to your subject.

Toby’s Features:
Instagram ChallengeLove the crop!
I agree and the taller dog’s gaze at the camera is perfect!
Instagram ChallengeJust a simple tight portrait! lovely!
Roy’s Features:
I love that yawn! It's a cute shot and a really unique angle.
Instagram ChallengeThe pet for this challenge doesn't have to be yours, using a fast aperture works great to seperate your subject.
A bit of aww, going for that morning light

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

Sunrise crashes an aurora party

"Sunrise crashes an aurora party over the southern hemisphere," said astronaut Ricky Arnold (@astro_ricky) of the image he snapped from the International Space Station. Auroras are one of the many Earthly phenomena the crew of the space station observe from their perch high above the planet. The dancing lights of auroras provide spectacular views, but also capture the imagination of scientists who study incoming energy and particles from our Sun. Auroras are one effect of such energetic particles, which can speed out from the Sun both in a steady stream called the solar wind or from giant eruptions known as coronal mass ejections or CMEs. After a trip toward Earth that can last three days, the solar particles and magnetic fields cause the release of particles already trapped near Earth, which in turn trigger reactions in the upper atmosphere in which oxygen and nitrogen molecules release photons of light. The result: the Northern and Southern lights. #earth #aurora #night #day #nasa #international #space #station

A post shared by International Space Station (@iss) on

Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going!
Upcoming live show schedule for PEN - No show on April 18th

Mish Mash Highlights: 4/4/2018

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Photography news

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on

This week's photography news and more with the Mish Mash Highlights. This week Lightroom got a big update, if you haven't noticed yet go check it out. We've also got a bunch of gear in for reviews so that'll be coming out soon!Toby's back this week with the live show as well. It's the same material you get here, but straight from the man himself while you can talk to the PEN community in a group chat. If that sounds good sign up to PEN today at photoenthusiastnetwork.com. The live show is just a bonus to a ton of great content.

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby?We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

New for PEN, join today at Photorec.tv/PEN

  • Tuesday Tips - Need Inspiration? Steal it!
  • The Making of a Black and White Series
  • PEN PPA Level Photo Critique - March

Articles Out this week!

Lightroom Classic CC v7.3 | April 2018 UPDATESFor those that want to get a bit more advanced with their editing Lightroom Classic now has a new color profile system and creative profiles. A big boost to editing and we should be seeing some really neat presets in the future. Along with the update there's been a few UI changes and items moved for better workflow, hopefully to get you out shooting again faster.

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.

As one of those viral stories, you can't stop this Canon G12 that managed to survive under water for two years! Al beit, thanks to an underwater housing, but with the power of social media they managed to find the owners within a couple days. This little Canon got swept 155 miles away from where it was lost in Japan to end up in Taiwan and fortunately found by school kids.

[embed]https://www.facebook.com/park.lee.10/posts/1976030532434236[/embed]

 Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_dark2

Starting out I think a lot of photographers wait for that bluebird sky to take photos. So this week we flipped the script going for darker shots whether you got a bit creative or just waited for that light to fall. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_pets3Time to let the fur fly with a pets challenge next! Go get some cute shots or your pets, or someone elses, for a nice shot this week.

Toby’s Features:
Instagram Top Pick
Instagram Top Pick
Roy’s Features:
Instagram Top Pick
Instagram Top Pick
Instagram Top Pick

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

Check out theis neat shot of Java, Bali, and Lombok. It almost looks like someone photoshopped a line of islands into a shot :)

From space, the sprawling Indonesian islands of Java, Bali and Lombok appear perfectly arranged. In this majestic view, captured from 250 miles above courtesy of astronaut Ricky Arnold (@Astro_Ricky) aboard the International Space Station (@iss), the impeccably aligned islands are disconnected only by tiny passages of water called straits. The Lombok Strait, which separates Bali and Lombok, is a slice of an invisible boundary called the Wallace Line. The margin, which runs between Asia and Australia, was created by British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace in 1859 and was drawn to separate the wildlife of Australia from the wildlife of Southeast Asia. This study of the geographical distribution of species and ecosystems is called biogeography and was formed from the work of Wallace and other biologist and explorers. There are currently six people living on the space station. While living aboard humanity’s only permanently occupied microgravity laboratory, they will work on hundreds of experiments in biology, biotechnology, physical science and Earth science. Credit: NASA/@Astro_Ricky #nasa #space #spacestation #crew #astronaut #spacecraft #orbit #earth #research #science #picoftheday #indonesia #bali #archipelago #java #lombok #islands

A post shared by NASA (@nasa) on

Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going!
Upcoming live show schedule for PEN - No show on April 18th