Nikon releases firmware update for Z 6 and Z 7 cameras

By Ellis Vener
5.17.2019 Tech

Nikon announced a major firmware update centered around autofocus performance in Nikon Z 6 and Z 7 cameras. The firmware adds eye-tracking autofocus for still photography, improved low-light autofocus capability for still and video photography, and enables auto-exposure subject tracking in the continuous high-speed (extended) frame rate mode.Eye tracking in still photographyWith a Z 6 or Z 7 in auto-area AF mode and photographing in either AF-S or AF-C mode, the camera now can automatically... Continue Reading >

Quick look: Virtual reality camera

May 2019 issue Tech

180 and 360 degrees© Courtesy Human EyesThe Vuze XR from HumanEyes is a dual 2D 360 and 3D 180 virtual reality camera. Its dual lens design can capture 2D 360-degree views as well as stereoscopic 3D VR180 video. Still captures are 18 megapixels, and video capture is 5.7K 30fps.You can make captures with the camera that allow clients to literally look around and see what it’s like to be in your studio or on location during a shoot. Wearing 3D goggles or glasses (or even inexpensive... Continue Reading >

Camera review: The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is more of a good thing

By Theano Nikitas
April 2019 issue Tech

Full-frame mirrorless cameras are trending, but that hasn’t stopped Olympus from making waves with a new mirrorless Micro Four Thirds professional model—the 20 megapixel OM-D E-M1X. Olympus can claim a number of innovations in the photo industry, including Live View and a built-in dust reduction system. With the OM-D E-M1X, Olympus has improved its exceptional 5-axis image stabilization and added a handheld multi-shot high-resolution option, dual processors, and more.© Courtesy... Continue Reading >

Camera review: Nikon Z 6 System

By Stan Sholik
March 2019 issue Tech

Having had a Nikon Z 6 on loan for an extended period, I’m reluctant to return it. While no single camera is the perfect answer for every photographer in every situation, this one addresses many of my needs, and, I think, would probably address many of yours.I was sorely tempted to purchase a Nikon D5 as my next upgrade, but its weight, cost,  somewhat undersized 20.8-megapixel sensor, and sound level deterred me. The Nikon Z 6 solves these issues while providing nearly all the benefits of... Continue Reading >

Review: Canon EOS R mirrorless camera

By Ellis Vener
February 2019 issue Tech

Change is not always a gradual evolution. Sometimes it’s more like an earthquake. For photographers, the seismic shift to full-frame mirrorless digital camera systems began in 2013. That was after Sony acquired Minolta’s photography division and built the first-generation Alpha 7 around the Exmor CMOS sensor. Now Canon, with its EOS R system, and Nikon, with its Z system, have stepped in. These cameras mark a turning point for professional photographers. Not only are they smaller and... Continue Reading >

Pocket cinema: A look at the DJI Osmo Pocket Camera

February 2019 issue Tech

Beyond the novelty of being a petite stabilized video camera, the DJI Osmo Pocket offers a string of surprisingly nifty functions. DJI makes the most of the Osmo’s three-axis stabilizer with features like Active Track that follows the subject of your choice, Face Track to keep a face in the center of the frame as you shoot, and FPV mode, which uses the gimbal’s position to follow your point of view.© Courtesy DJIOther creative options: Shoot 3x3 or 180-degree panoramas, make... Continue Reading >

Zeiss ZX1 mirrorless camera promises intuitive action

January 2019 issue Tech

Zeiss intends its ZX1 to become a seamless extension of your creative mind, from shooting to editing to sharing. Start with the ergonomics of the body and a high-performance 35mm Zeiss Distagon lens. Add a quiet leaf shutter in a mirrorless system and a full-frame 37.4-megapixel CMOS sensor.Zeiss promises you won’t get mired in complex menus with its intuitive navigation system that appears on a 4.3-inch display. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom CC is integrated into the camera, allowing you to... Continue Reading >

Nikon announces new full-frame mirrorless cameras, new lens line

by Ellis Vener
8.23.2018 Tech

Nikon has introduced two full-frame mirrorless cameras: the 24.5-megapixel Z 6, a body optimized for high speed and low light performance, and the high-resolution 45.7-megapixel Z 7. Both bodies are nearly identical in appearance, slightly smaller in width than a full-size speedlight is tall and only slightly taller than the same speedlight is wide. What's remarkable is how thin the body is except for the grip. The bodies are dominated on the front by the new 55mm diameter Z- bayonet lens mount... Continue Reading >

Straightforward: Sigma SD Quattro H Review

By Stan Sholik
April 2018 issue Tech

At a time when major manufacturers seem to be packing every conceivable function into their camera bodies, it’s refreshing that one company is producing a camera with extremely high resolution, simple operation, and a competitive price. The company is Sigma, and the camera is the Sigma sd Quattro H. What it does, it does extremely well, and what it does not do, you may not need. Indeed, its simplicity and ease of use remind me of the days of shooting with 35mm film.UNCONVENTIONAL... Continue Reading >