Sony a1 Full Press Release

Groundbreaking Sony Alpha 1 Camera Marks a New Era in Professional Imaging

The Alpha 1 Delivers an Unprecedented Combination of Resolution, Speed and Video Performance, Empowering Professionals with a New High-Resolution 50.1-megapixel Full-frame Image Sensor, High-speed Shooting at up to 30 Frames per Second, 8K 30p Video and More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sony Contacts: | Cheryl Goodman, Corporate Communications | selpr@sony.com | 858.942.4079

Caroline Mizuki, Imaging Products & Solutions Americas | caroline.mizuki@sony.com | 858.951.6271

• New 50.1-megapixel (approx., effective) full-frame stacked Exmor RS™ CMOS image sensor in combination with an upgraded BIONZ XR™ imaging processing engine with eight times more processing power[i]

• Blackout- free continuous shooting at up to 30 frames per second[ii]

• Fast sensor readout enables up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second[iii], double the speed of the Alpha 9 II, even during 30fps continuous shooting

• Bright and large 0.64-type 9.44 million-dot (approx.) OLED Quad-XGA electronic viewfinder with the world’s first[iv]refresh rate of 240 fps

• Silent, vibration-free electronic shutter

• World’s first[v] anti-flicker shooting with both mechanical and electronic shutter

• Electronic shutter flash sync[vi] up to 1/200 sec. for the first time in the Alpha™ series

• World’s fastestv mechanical shutter flash sync up to 1/400 sec.

• 8K 30p[vii] 10-bit 4:2:0 XAVC HS video recording with 8.6K oversampling for extraordinary detail and resolution, in addition to 4K 120p[viii] 10-bit 4:2:2 movie shooting capabilities

• Wide dynamic range of 15 stops for stills[ix] and 15+ stops for video[x]

• Improved Real-time Eye AF (autofocus) for humans and animals, and new Real-time Eye AF for birds[xi], as well as Real-time Tracking that automatically maintains accurate focus

• 5-axis optical in-body image stabilization for a 5.5-step[xii] shutter speed advantage

• S-Cinetone color matrix as seen in FX9 and FX6 to deliver expressive cinematic look

• Professional workflow support with the industry’s fastest[xiii] built-in Wi-Fi, SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps, 1000BASE-T Ethernet and more

SAN DIEGO, CA – January 26, 2021 – Sony Electronics, a global leader in imaging sensor technology and digital imaging, has announced the arrival of the groundbreaking new full-frame mirrorless Alpha 1 camera – asserting their commitment to leading the industry with a stunning combination of innovative new features. 

The most technologically advanced, innovative camera that Sony has ever released, the Alpha 1 combines high-resolution and high-speed performance at a level that has never been accomplished in the world of digital cameras.  With a brand new 50.1-megapixel full-frame stacked Exmor RS™ image sensor, up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second, 8K 30p 10-bit 4:2:0 video and much more, the Alpha 1 will allow creators to capture what they’ve never been able to before. 

"We are always listening to our customers, challenging the industry to bring new innovation to the market that goes far beyond their expectations.” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president for Imaging Products and Solutions Americas at Sony Electronics. “Alpha 1 breaks through all existing boundaries, setting a new bar for what creators can accomplish with a single camera. What excites us the most – more than the extensive product feature – is Alpha 1's ability to capture that which has never been captured before. This camera unlocks a new world of creative possibilities, making the previously impossible now possible.”

The newly developed image sensor is built with integral memory and paired with an upgraded BIONZ XR imaging processing engine, making it capable of shooting 50.1-megapixel images continuously at an astounding 30fps with up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second. The Alpha 1’s shooting capabilities are further enhanced by a 9.44 million dot OLED Quad-XGA electronic viewfinder, with a refresh rate of up to 240 fps[xiv], ensuring no black out.  Additionally, for the first time in an Alpha series camera, 8K 30p 10-bit 4:2:0 video is available. The Alpha 1 is also capable of 4K 120p / 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 recording and includes S-Cinetone color. The Alpha 1 is also packed with features that support field professionals with faster workflow, including 3.5 times faster wireless FTP transfer speed[xv] and more.

Unprecedented Resolution and Speed

Continuous Shooting at Up to 30 Frames Per Second

The Alpha 1 captures moments that would otherwise be lost thanks to its high-speed performance, providing any photographer the speed they require to capture fast-moving objects. High speed readout from the 50.1-megapixel image sensor and a large buffer memory make it possible to shoot up to 155 full-frame compressed RAW images[xvi] or 165 full-frame JPEG images[xvii] at up to 30 frames per second with the electronic shutter while maintaining full AF and AE tracking performance[xviii].

At an astonishing calculation speed of up to 120 AF/AE per second, the Alpha 1 can maintain focus with high accuracy even for fast moving subjects. It can automatically adjust exposure, even with sudden changes in brightness, with an AE response latency as low as 0.033 secondsii.

Advanced Electronic Viewfinder with the World’s Firstiv Refresh Rate of 240 fps

Complimenting the camera’s ability to capture images at an unprecedented speed, the Alpha 1 viewfinder features the world’s firstiv 240 fps refresh ratexiv, for a super-smooth display. The viewfinder does not black out when an exposure is made to offer an uninterrupted view and allow for seamless framing and tracking, even during continuous shooting. The 9.44 million-dot (approx.), 0.64 type Quad-XGA high-definition OLED display and refined optics deliver the highest resolution in its classiv. It also offers 0.90x[xix] viewfinder magnification, a 41° diagonal FOV, and a 25mm-high eyepoint for clear, low distortion viewing from corner to corner. 

Advanced Autofocus

Sony continues to push the boundaries of autofocus technology with the introduction of the Alpha 1, which can easily track complex, fast-moving subjects with high precision. The camera features 759 phase detection points in a high-density focal plane phase-detection AF system cover approximately 92% of the image area – ensuring accuracy and unfailing focus in environments where focusing might otherwise be difficult. 

Sony’s advanced Real-time Eye AF improves detection performance by 30% over the previous systemi, thanks to the powerful image processing engine, BIONZ XR. It ensures accurate, reliable detection, even when the subject’s face looks away. In addition to improved Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals, the Alpha 1 employs high-level subject recognition technology to provide Real-time Eye AF for birdsxi, a first in an Alpha series camera. Optimized algorithms ensure that tracking is maintained even if a sitting bird suddenly takes flight, or the framing suddenly changes[xx].

The Alpha 1 also features AI-based Real-time Tracking that automatically maintains accurate focus. A subject recognition algorithm uses color, pattern (brightness), and subject distance (depth) data to process spatial information in real time at high speed. 

Silent, Vibration-free Electronic Shutter

High-speed readout from the new image sensor has made it possible to reduce rolling shutter by up to 1.5 times when shooting stills, compared to the Alpha 9 II. It also offers silent anti-flicker continuous shooting with an electronic shutter for the first timevin the world. The electronic shutter[xxi] operates silently, without mechanical noise, and is vibration-free. Stress-free continuous shooting is now possible even when shooting in challenging lighting situations with florescent or other flicker-prone types of artificial lighting. And for the first time in an Alpha camera, electronic shutter flash sync up to 1/200 sec[xxii] is possible. The advantages of the electronic shutter advantages can now come to life even when using flash for broadly expanded shooting versatility.

Dual Driven Shutter System for 1/400 Flash Sync

The Alpha 1 boasts the world’s fastest flash sync speedv of 1/400 sec. with mechanical shutter, making it even easier to capture dynamic action. In addition to a carbon fiber shutter curtain, the Alpha 1 features the newly developed dual driven shutter system utilizing spring and electromagnetic drive actuator, offering high durability and lightness at the same time.

High Resolution Shooting Enhancements

Even with this sensor’s high pixel count, the Alpha 1 offers high sensitivity with low noise, plus 15+ stops of dynamic range for video and 15 stops for stills, for smooth, natural gradations from shadows to highlights thanks to its cutting-edge processing system, throughout a wide ISO sensitivity range of 100-32,000 (expandable to 50-102,400, when shooting stills).

Additionally, the new camera features an evolved Pixel Shift Multi Shooting mode that composites up to 16 full-resolution images. In this mode, the camera precisely shifts the sensor in one pixel or half-pixel increments to capture 16 separate pixel-shifted images containing a total of 796.2 million pixels of data, which are then composited into a 199 million pixel (17,280 x 11,520 pixels) image using Sony’s Imaging Edge™ desktop application. With a flash sync of up to 1/200 sec. in this mode, it is ideal for photographing architecture, art or any other still life subject with a level of detail and color accuracy that is simply stunning.  

Professional Video Quality

8K High-resolution Movie Shooting

For the first time in an Alpha camera, the Alpha 1 offers 8K 30p 10-bit 4:2:0 XAVC HS recording with 8.6K oversampling for extraordinary resolution. Combined with Sony’s acclaimed autofocus technology, gradation and color reproduction performance, the Alpha 1 will help the user realize their creative vision with the finest detail. It’s 8K footage can also be used for flexible 4K editing during post-production. 

Supporting Various Video Formats for Professionals 

The Alpha 1 offers in-camera 4K recording at up to 120 frames per secondviii which allows the user to shoot up to 5X slow-motion video[xxiii]. In addition to supporting 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, this feature can be used with efficient Long GOP inter-frame compression or high-quality Intra (All-I) intra-frame compression. 

The Alpha 1 features S-Cinetone, the same color matrix that produces the highly regarded FX9 and FX6 color and skin tones. It delivers natural mid-tones, plus soft colors and gorgeous highlights to meet a growing need for more expressive depth. The S-Log3 gamma curve makes it possible to achieve 15+ stops of dynamic range, while the S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3.Cine color gamut settings make it easy to match Alpha 1 footage with video shot on VENICE cinema camera, FX9 and other professional cinema cameras. 

Heat-dissipating Structure

A unique heat dissipating structure keeps image sensor and image processing engine temperatures within their normal operating range, preventing overheating while maintaining compact body dimensions. This makes it possible to record 8K/30p video continuously for approximately 30 minutes[xxiv].

Supporting Hand-held Shooting

A high-precision stabilization unit and gyro sensors, plus optimized image stabilization algorithms, achieve up to a 5.5-step shutter speed advantage, maximizing the quality of the high-resolution images derived from the camera’s 50.1-megapixel sensor. The Alpha 1 also features an Active Mode[xxv] that offers outstanding stabilization for handheld movie shooting. When using Sony’s desktop applications Catalyst Browse or Catalyst Prepare[xxvi] for post-production, an accurate image stabilization function is available which utilizes metadata generated by camera's built-in gyro.

Other features that the Alpha 1 offers include; 16-bit RAW output[xxvii] to an external recorder[xxviii] via HDMI for maximum post-production flexibility, a digital audio interface has been added to the camera’s Multi Interface (MI) Shoe for clearer audio recordings from a compatible Sony external microphone, 5.8K oversampled full pixel readout without pixel binning for high-resolution 4K movies in Super 35mm mode and more.

Enhanced Workflow with Network Technologies including Connectivity to 5G Compatible Devices

The Alpha 1 has been designed and configured to support photo and video journalists and sports shooters who need to deliver stills or movies as quickly as possible with advanced connectivity options. It offers several features for fast, reliable file transfers. Industry’s fastestxiii built-in wireless LAN allows communication on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz[xxix] bands with dual antennas to ensure reliable communications. 5 GHz includes 2x2 MIMO support (IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac) offering 3.5 times faster wireless FTP transfer speed than the Alpha 9 II - a notable advantage for news and sports shooters who need to deliver with reliable speed. There is also a provided USB Type-C® connector to support fast data transfer when connected to a 5G mmWave compatible device such as Sony’s Xperia PRO and makes high-speed PC Remote (tethered) data transfer available for smooth handling of large image files. The Alpha 1 also has a built-in 1000BASE-T LAN connector for high-speed, stable data transfers, including remote shooting. FTPS (File Transfer over SSL/TLS) is supported, allowing SSL or TLS encryption for increased data security. 

In addition to compressed and uncompressed RAW, the Alpha 1 includes efficient lossless compression with no quality degradation, Lossless Compressed RAW. There is also a new “Light” JPEG/HEIF image quality setting that results in smaller files than the “Standard” setting, allowing faster deliver for news and sports photographers who depend on speed. Along with a versatile range of RAW and JPEG formats, the Alpha 1 includes the HEIF (High Efficiency Image File) format for smooth 10-bit gradations that provide more realistic reproduction of skies and portrait subjects where subtle, natural gradation is essential. Images shot on the Alpha 1 can be trimmed in-camera to a desired aspect ratio, size, or position for versatile usage.

The Alpha 1 is also compatible with a variety of apps, add-ons and tools. With Imaging Edge Mobile and Imaging Edge Desktop[xxx], professionals can easily transfer RAW files and files that use lossless compression and remotely control Touch Tracking and Touch Focus for convenient AF operation. The Transfer & Tagging add-on (Ver. 1.3 or later) can automatically covert voice memos attached to image files to text captions or transfer the files to an FTP server from a mobile device. Desktop applications Catalyst Browse/Catalyst Preparexxvi allow professionals to browse and manage video clips shot by Sony’s camera. In addition, the Remote Camera Tool[xxxi] can remotely change camera settings and shoot from a computer connected via LAN cable and feature a number of refinements for the Alpha 1: faster transfer, touch response, dual slot and HEIF support, and more.

Reliable and Easy Operability

Professional users need more than just refined features and performance. They also need the reliability and durability demanded of any professional tool. The Alpha 1 has two media slots that both support UHS-I and UHS-II SDXC/SDHC cards, as well as new CFexpress Type A cards for higher overall capacity and faster read/write speeds. It also features a durable magnesium alloy chassis, long battery life with the Z-battery which can be extended using the optional VG-C4EM Vertical Grip (sold separately), an improved dust removal feature, shutter close function on power-off to protect image sensor, plus dust and moisture resistance[xxxii] that maximizes reliability in challenging environments. It includes a durable, reliable HDMI Type-A connector, and USB PD (Power Delivery) support, allowing higher power to be supplied from an external source so that users can record for extended periods with minimal internal battery usage.

A revised menu structure provides easier navigation, and touch-responsive menu operation offers fast, more intuitive control with Touch Focus and Touch Tracking on its 3.0 type 1.44 million-dot (approx.) LCD monitor. For easy customization, a subset of the camera’s shooting settings now changes according to the selected shooting mode, making it easier than ever to use different aperture, shutter speed and other settings for shooting stills and movies. 

Pricing and Availability

The Alpha 1 Full-frame Interchangeable-Lens Camera will be available in March 2021 for approximately $6,500 USD and $8,500 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new camera and Sony's other imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony α - Alpha brand cameras.

For detailed coverage on the new product on Alpha Universe, please visit this LINK.

The new content will also be posted directly at the Sony Photo Gallery.

For detailed product information, please visit:

• (US) – ILCE-1

• (CA) – ILCE-1

Additionally, a product launch video focused on the Alpha 1 can be found at this LINK.

###

About Sony Electronics Inc.

Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Corporation (Japan), one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

Notes:

[i] Compared to the BIONZ X imaging processing engine.

[ii] “Hi+” continuous shooting mode. In focus modes other than AF-C, effective at 1/125 sec. or higher shutter speed. In AF-C mode, effective at 1/250 sec. or higher shutter speed, and the maximum continuous frame rate will depend on the shooting mode and lens used. 20 fps max. when shooting Uncompressed or Lossless compressed RAW.

[iii] At shutter speeds of 1/125 sec. or higher. The number of AF calculations will depend on the lens used.

[iv] As of January 2021, Sony survey. Among full-frame mirrorless cameras.

[v] As of January 2021, Sony survey. Among full-frame interchangeable-lens digital still cameras.

[vi] Up to 1/200 sec. Synchronization via the sync terminal is not available for electronic shutter.

[vii] [APS-C S35 Shooting] is fixed [Off] when shooting 4K 120p and 8K movies.

[viii] 10% image crop.

[ix] Sony internal tests.

[x] When recording with S-Log3. Sony internal tests.

[xi] Still images only.

[xii] CIPA standards. Pitch/yaw shake only. Planar T* FE 50mm F1.4 ZA lens. Long exposure NR off.

[xiii] As of January 2021, Sony survey. Among interchangeable-lens digital still cameras.

[xiv] Field of view is fixed at 33° and resolution is UXGA when selecting frame rate at 240 fps.

[xv] 3.5 times faster when compared against the Alpha 9 II.

[xvi] “Hi+” continuous shooting mode, compressed RAW, CFexpress Type A memory card. Sony tests.

[xvii] “Hi+” continuous shooting mode, CFexpress Type A memory card. Sony tests.

[xviii] At 20 frames per second, users can shoot up to 238 full-frame compressed RAW images or 400 full-frame JPEG images.

[xix] 50mm lens, infinity, -1m-1 diopter.

[xx] Accurate focus may not be achieved with certain subjects in certain situations.

[xxi] Shutter speed slower than 0.5 sec. cannot be set while continuous shooting. Tracking performance and max. aperture differs by settings and lenses.

[xxii] Up to 1/200 sec. Synchronization via the sync terminal is not available for electronic shutter.

[xxiii] Post-production editing and S&Q mode recording required. Data must be recorded to a CFexpress Type A memory card when the frame rate is 120 (100) fps or higher.

[xxiv] Sony internal tests with [Auto Power OFF Temp.] set to [High].

[xxv] Active Mode is not available for 8K recording.

[xxvi] Catalyst Browse™ version 2020.1 or later, Catalyst Prepare version 2020.1 or later are required.

[xxvii] 8K is not applicable. 

[xxviii] Compatible recorders to be announced.

[xxix] 5 GHz communication may be restricted in some countries and regions.

[xxx] The Imaging Edge (Remote/Viewer/Edit) desktop application Ver. 3.1 or later is required for compositing.  

[xxxi] Remote Camera Tool version 2.3 or later is required.

[xxxii] Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and water resistant.

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How to Sell Your Photo Gear

The article below was written for the Photo Enthusiast Network. Each week members of PEN receive a new video, a new article and they always have access to the private FB community and community forum for getting 24/7 help in all things photography. This includes access to professional photographers ready to provide support and Join PEN for just $0.47 a week for your first year. That’s less than two quarters a week and you get access to hundreds of videos covering Photoshop, Lightroom, portrait photography, landscape photography and so much more!

How to Sell Your Photo Gear

If you are a PEN member it’s likely you have found yourself with a camera, lens, or other bits of photo gear that you no longer need. In today’s tip I want to share some options for letting gear go to a new home, and getting a few dollars too - you know, so you can buy some other piece of gear.   I have these in order from most work with the most dollars for your gear to less work but less money for your gear. 

Selling Locally - Avoid fees and shipping costs by selling locally - options for selling locally include your local camera club and camera club message boards, local Facebook Photo Gear Group,  Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and even eBay can be included in this list - though there will be some fees with the last three and you open yourself up to potential scammers when using FB Marketplace, Craigslist and eBay.

By selling within your local camera club or Facebook Photo Group you have the benefit of working with other people genuinely interested in photography and you are much less likely to run into scammers. 

Clean up the gear you are selling and take nice, well-lit photos of the gear, with lenses be sure to capture a clear look at the front glass element - showing any issues. And, be ready to share the shutter count for cameras. There are different ways to find the shutter count depending on your camera make and model. The best advice I can give you is to google “shutter count for [[Your Camera]]” and you will be pointed in the right direction. 

Selling locally means you can avoid shipping costs but that means you will need to meet the person- you might find some people are reluctant to meet during a pandemic so for the foreseeable future this will limit your potential selling audience.  If you do meet, be smart about the location. Many police precincts offer a spot to meet where everyone should feel safe. Inside a Starbucks or other fast food restaurant works too. Again the pandemic might limit your options. 

How to price your gear?  Search eBay for completed listings, look to see what B&H Used is offering, and cross-reference with used sales on Amazon.  That should provide a pretty solid starting point. 

If you have a local camera store you may check with them, they sometimes will buy used gear and resell it. You won’t get nearly as much as you would if you sold it yourself but it is an easy way to get some money for your gear.

Selling Online. Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Amazon open up a much larger audience to you but it also opens you up to a world of scammers.  Take some time to familiarize yourself with scams and the settings in each selling platform that will minimize your risk. If you are selling from the United States I strongly advise that you limit your sale to inside the US. Several very effective scams take advantage of issues with international shipping.  I know of photographers that have great success selling on these platforms but the last few items I sold I had several scammers message for each real person that was interested. These days if I don’t sell locally I just use the next options.  

Selling Online - Third Party.  B&H Photo, MPB.com, and KEH.com all offer to buy your gear.  You won’t make as much as you would if selling directly to someone but this is the no-hassle approach. I have personally sold to B&H Photo and MPB and found the process very straight forward.   They provide a portal to enter the details on your gear and the quality and then provide an instant quote.  It’s worth using, sometimes the quote is close to what you were hoping to get when selling.  If you agree to the price a couple more clicks and you have shipping labels and instructions for sending.  In my experience the quotes were accurate and I received my payouts not long after the gear arrives.    In some instances, you can receive a slight increase in the payout if you opt to take store credit.   Be sure to check all three - I have found that MPB often provides the most $$$ for your gear. Once the company receives and evaluates your gear, if your description was inaccurate they will let you know the updated quote and give you the option to decline, shipping your gear back. 

Donating. If you don’t need the funds from selling your gear or the amount you would get for the work makes it impractical, consider donating.  Reach out to your local high school to see if they have a photography program. Many schools do have programs and are always looking for the gear they can loan to students.  You could also ask your local Boys and Girls club as they often provide education programs.   

I hope this article helps you Marie Kando a few pieces of photo gear that no longer sparks joy.

All the best,

Toby

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Stop Doing This to Improve Your Photography

I am usually a pretty positive guy but today I am coming to you with a short and sweet list of DONT’S that can save you frustrations and improve your photography. 

STOP Adjusting your tripod without loosening the knobs.  What!? Yes, I see it more often than I like. Here’s the scenario -you set up for a shot on your tripod and realize that the composition would improve if you shifted your angle a few degrees. Just give the camera a little muscle - it will move. This creates a serious issue- something has to give to allow you to move the camera and it usually results in the tripod plate becoming loose or the head of the tripod becoming loose. The end result is the same - your tripod is no longer providing a stable platform and eventually, your camera can just fall off. I have seen it happen more than once.  

DO - when you need to adjust your camera take a couple of seconds to loosen the appropriate knob, position the camera and tighten the knob.   If you are frustrated with your current tripod head consider upgrading just the head. I personally like the models with just one or two knobs Oben makes an affordable option and Really Right stuff has an expensive head but it will likely last you a lifetime.  Both of these heads have different sized or shaped knobs which makes it easy to know which one you need to turn without even looking.  I have one tripod head with three knobs - one for panning, one to loosen the ball head, and one for setting the tension on the ball head. After finding the perfect tension I place a piece of tape over the tension knob so that I don’t accidentally use that one in the future. 

STOP Automatically setting up your tripod at your eye level.  I know, it’s easy and comfortable to stand upright and not crouch over but too often you are missing impactful compositions if you just default to what is easiest for you.  

DO - When you walk up to a scene take a moment to hold your camera near ground level and slowly raise it watching how the composition changes - where is it most impactful?  Setup the tripod for that height.   

STOP taking a photo as soon as you bring the camera up to your eye.  The common scenario I see, and it happens to me too- something catches your eye, you bring your camera up - focused on that subject and snap a photo before moving on.  Later when you review the photo you realize that there is lots of other stuff going on that you missed - stuff that can potentially distract your viewers from immediately recognizing your subject and just presenting them with a busy scene.  

DO - When bringing that camera to your eye take a moment to take in the whole scene, not just fixate on what caught your eye. And now arrange your composition to avoid distractions and use elements in the scene to lead your viewer to the subject - this might include but is not limited to framing and the use of leading lines.  If you want to take this one step at a time - first just focus on removing distractions from the scene. Several years ago I became much more conscious of this and saw a noticeable improvement in the quality of my photos.  Distractions could include something poking into the frame, a bright spot of light or different color, or something awkwardly intersecting with your subject.   Move your feet, change your focal length or aperture to reduce and remove these distractions. 

NOTE -If you see a fleeting moment absolutely capture as soon as the camera is up to your eye - this is the safety shot and that was the subject of a tip back in 2019. 


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Lightroom's Color Grading Tool Explained

Lightroom released a recent update that introduced an entirely new panel to the editing window. I share two ways you might want to use this powerful new feature in Lightroom.

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EOS R5 Review Vs Sony a7Riii and Differences vs R6 - Worth all the $$$?

I spent a month shooting with the Canon EOS R6 (my full review) and the EOS R5. The R6 review was easy - at its current price, the R6 is a fantastic all-around camera that is suitable for photographers and even videographers (with the latest FW update camera is less likely to overheat). The R5 at $3900 is significantly more money and outside the USA the cost is even higher. In this review, I help you determine the value of this new camera or save you $1900 - Watch

This review is brought to you by Squarespace. I run Photorec.tv and my own personal portfolio on Squarespace - I love just how easy it was to set up, and how easy it is to add content. And, I know that it is going to look beautiful on any device. Give Squarespace a try at squarespace.com/photorectv to save 10% off your first purchase.

R5 Raw and Sony a7Riii RAW files shared in video- http://photorec.tv/r5raw

Buy Links:
Canon R5: https://bhpho.to/3kmYDsz
ProGrade Digital 128GB CFexpress 2.0 https://bhpho.to/35qCdCx
Spare R5 Battery: https://bhpho.to/3lnEnZ3 (Can charge in camera)
Affordable PD charger for Canon EOS R5&R6: https://amzn.to/3lDtiD4

Cheaper Sony a7Riii: https://bhpho.to/2Iqp6YL

Tamron 28-75 lens for sony: https://bhpho.to/2UoGcc5

Which Drone Is Best for You? Drone Guide 2020

Your Drone Choices in 2020

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Dji Mavic Mini - Released Oct 2019 - Price $399 Buy from B&H Photo | Buy from Amazon
DJI Mini 2 - Release Nov 2020 - Price $449 Buy from B&H Photo | Buy from Amazon (SOON!)
DJI Mavic Air 2 - Released Apr 2020 - $799 Buy from B&H Photo | Buy from Amazon
DJI Mavic 2 Pro - Released Aug 2018 - $1599 Buy from B&H Photo | Buy from Amazon
Skydio 2 - Releasing Dec 2020 - $999 (best drone for tracking)
Autel Evo II 8k or 6K Released Apr 2020 $1495 - $2095 Buy from B&H Photo | Buy from Amazon | Buy from Adorama

Don’t want to spend time reading or watching this video? Ok! Buy the Mavic Air 2. The Air 2 offers a fantastic feature set, great quality, and is robust enough/fast enough to be used without worrying that it will blow away.

The Affordable DJI Mavic Mini (Original Review from Alaska - Dec 2019)

$399 for the Mavic Mini is the most affordable way to get a modern DJI drone that offers easy to fly with reliable GPS hold - This means that when you let go of the controls the drone will hold it’s position very well. There are cheaper non-DJI drones on the market but they do not do this as well making it more likely you will crash. 2.7K video, JPEG photos only, no active tracking and WiFi connection are drawbacks but this small and lightweight drone provide good enough quality for beginners or travelers looking for the most compact package. Note: you do not need WiFi to fly the drone, it makes it’s own connection between controller and drone but based on your area you might find WiFi interference bad enough that you can’t fly the drone more than a few hundred feet away. In the wilds of Alaska I was able to easily control the drone over a mile away.


Releasing soon - The DJI Mini 2

The price will be around $500 for drone only and the main upgrades are 4k, Occusync 2.0 for drone to controller connection and using the new, larger style remote that comes with the Mavic Air 2. The Occusync upgrade is huge - this provide rock solid connections and a clear feed from miles away - rated up to 6 miles! So even those living in WiFi congested areas will be able to easily control and see the video feed.
UPDATES - since releasing video it has been confirmed that the Mini 2 will shoot RAW/DNG photos and will provide a follow mode that allows the drone to follow the controller - this is kind of like active track but very limited since it will only be using position of controller- not trying to keep the subject in the camera necessarily.

The Mavic Mini will remain on the market as a low priced option to get started with DJI. The Mini 2 will be positioned closer to the Air 2

With the higher price the Mini 2 sits closer to the Mavic Air 2. The Air 2 provides a faster drone with a larger sensor and excellent tracking capabilities along with smoother video. If you are looking for great quality photo/video with tracking and all packaged in a fairly portable body- the Air 2 is an excellent choice. Because of the price, size and feature set this is the drone to buy in 2020.

The Mavic 2 Pro offers a larger sensor and higher bit rate video files which will translate into more detail and better dynamic range but in my testing I saw very little difference in most real world shooting. At almost 2x the cost of the Air you will really need the absolute best or plan to often fly in lower light to make the case for the Pro.

More added soon.

Mavic Air 2 - This is the drone *MOST* of you are looking for

Watch the video for my full review…