Photography Photography

Warm Colors on a Frigid Afternoon

On a frigid day when it is so cold that when you step out of the car it feels like your nose is going fo freeze and fall off, your fingers and toes become numb in seconds. It is no fun untill you see some golden light from the setting sun on the last day of 2017.  Now the frezing cold is forgotten - the image is all that matters.  The colors contrased against the ice, the patterns in the water and the terraces in the ice had to be captured.This was shot with the Panasonic Lumix G9, the Leica 12-60 mm lens at 44 mm. Exposure triad: f/6.3, 1/250 sec at ISO 200.

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Photography Photography

Panasonic Lumix G9 Continuous Auto Focus Test

First - Wishing all my readers a Very Happy New Year.This past weekend my wife and I spent two days in Franconia, New Hampshire.  The temperatures were in the -10 to -13 Degrees in the evenings and -7 to -10 during the day.  We were hoping to photograph some ice climbers but the winds were too strong and we did not find any.  In any case, these frigid conditions were ideal for testing out how the new G9 would perform.  the camera is rated to work at temperatures below freezing down to 14 Degrees F.  This morning it was -7. I did not want to risk doing an extended time-lapse sequence but did want to test out the continuous autofocus.Canon mountain has some decent ski slopes and there were a few skiers on the slopes.  A skier coming downhill and then swinging across to the right was the layout.  I set the camera to AFC (Auto Focus Continuous), drive mode was set to high, Manual exposure - f/5, 1/1000 sec, ISO 200.  The lens was the Leica 12-60 at mm.  I set the capture to RAW + Jpeg (large) with RAW to Card 1 and Jpeg to Card 2.  The cards were not the fastest - SanDisk V30 SDXC, 95 MB/s.Waiting for a skier to come into view, I depressed the shutter and followed him as he came down the slope.  The sequence was 9 seconds for a total 66 images.  I was very pleased to see that the autofocus continuous mode worked really well. I believe that all 66 images in the sequence are in acceptable focus and very usable.  I would like to try a similar test with a longer lens but given the way the camera performed, despite the cold, I am extremely happy.The entire jpeg sequence is below. The only adjustments made to the images was a small correction in white balance, sharpening and noise reduction were both zeroed out in Lightroom. The images were then exported for this display with a 1024 pixel horizontal setting. If you are interested in a folder of these jpeg images or any of the RAW files for further validation please let me know and I will be happy to get them to you. [ngg_images source="galleries" container_ids="120" display_type="photocrati-nextgen_pro_horizontal_filmstrip" image_crop="0" image_pan="1" show_playback_controls="1" show_captions="0" caption_class="caption_overlay_bottom" caption_height="70" aspect_ratio="1.333" width="150" width_unit="%" transition="fade" transition_speed="1" slideshow_speed="5" border_size="0" border_color="#ffffff" override_thumbnail_settings="1" thumbnail_width="120" thumbnail_height="90" thumbnail_crop="1" ngg_triggers_display="always" order_by="sortorder" order_direction="ASC" returns="included" maximum_entity_count="500"]

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Photography Photography

The G-Hold Micro-Suction Disk

The G-Hold is a unique micro suction disk with a levered slide disk that works as the support mechanism between your fingers. You attach this removable, reusable micro suction disk to the back of your iPad, tablet, e-reader, large smart phone, or, as I have, a wireless Wacom Tablet.  Any portable electronic device that has a smooth flat surface can be comfortably hand-held at any angle.  Unlike stick-on pads that have uncomfortable velcro straps, the G-Hold is flat and strain-free.The device is made of a plastic 4 inch disk with a multitude of micro-suction cups.  On the reverse side is a smaller disk attached via a fold away sliding mechanism. This slips between your index and middle finger or your middle and ring finger (based on your personal comfort level). The large disk and the hand grip disk are coupled via a circular lip allowing for a 360 degree rotation.  This allows you to support your tablet, etc. comfortably in any position.  The micro-suction cups are designed to be attached to smooth surfaces.  However, if the back of your tablet has texture or a pebbled surface, the G-Hold package includes a “Compatibility Sticker” that you need to attach to your device before affixing the G-Hold. The included sticker does not leave any residue and does not cause any discoloration.  Attaching the G-Hold to your tablet is easy. First clean the surface you are going to attach the G-Hold to. Use a damp cloth and let the surface dry.  Next, peel off the backing from the micro-suction cups’ disk and press the G-Hold firmly onto the back of your tablet applying even pressure over the entire surface. Now you can slide your fingers between the two disks and position the tablet for best viewing or use.The physical dimensions are: Diameter: 4.0" / 10.2 cm and Height: 0.5" / 1.25 cm.  The height is with the clip folded down.  As such, the unit is slim enough that you can still insert your tablet easily into a case. However, you may not be able set your tablet or iPad on your desk and use it comfortably as it is no longer stable on a flat surface.  Careful mounting on the high side of a Wacom Tablet will allow for a stable yet an angled position. To solve for stability, it is best to remove the G-Hold.  This is easily done using a thin plastic card or a length of dental floss slipped between the tablet and the G-Hold. As it is best to maintain a clean surface on both the G-Hold and the tablet a carrying case for the G-Hold would be a nice addition/accessory.In the event you want to move the G-Hold to another device or wish to reposition it, remember to wipe the micro-suction cup surface with a damp cloth before affixing it.The packaging has some interesting warnings that you need to be aware of:“Be careful, though, it'll lose its grip if you get dirt, grease or finger marks on them, and your tablet could end up on the floor. Wipe the micro suction gently with a damp cloth, then dry before each use.”and“It's made of pretty  tough stuff but try not to hit the central disc side-on against the edge of hard surfaces. However, rest assured, if you do drive over it with  a steamroller, that the entire top section of the G-Hold can be screwed out and the clip replaced. Just line up the inner and outer notches, insert something like a paperclip, and turn until the top part slips out.New parts are available from our website, www.g-hold.com" The G-Hold can be ordered from B&H Photo 

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Photography Photography

4V Italian Leather Camera Straps

If you are looking for a great camera strap for yourself or as a gift this holiday season, you know there are lots to choose from.  Now, if you want a premium leather neck or hand strap, there is a manufacturer that you may not have heard of, 4V Design from Italy.  4V straps have a number of styles and sizes to select from and some awesome color combinations too.4V straps are hand crafted from premium Italian leather and are truly a high end strap.  The leather is vegetable tanned that is not only soft and supple but hols its shape extremely well. If you are particular about the use of chemicals in the processing and tanning of leather, there are no chemicals employed in the production of these straps.I bought my first 4V strap, the Lusso (shown above) about 6 months ago and absolutely fell in love with the shape, comfort and the elegant look of the strap.  I have since added many more to my collection and now have one on each camera body I own.  The straps are not cheap, however for the holidays Hunt's Photo is doing an incredible deal of with 70% and more off the price.CLICK HERE for a link to some of the models.  Many more are at the store and if you want to get a great leather strap - the 4V straps are the best.  These straps are not just well made they are well designed and and the color combinations are aesthetically pleasing.  Every element of the 4V strives for perfection, from the stitching, adjustable lengths, choice of connection kits and non slip padding.

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Photography Photography

ICELAND - March 2018 Photo Tour and Workshop

_S5A7897-EditThe 2018 March Iceland photo tour and workshop is finalized.  Ben Grunow a fellow Panasonic Luminary will be co-leading the Photo Tour and Workshop.From the western peninsulas of Snæfellsnes and Reykjanes to the exquisite south coast including the exquisite black sand beaches and icebergs in Jökulsárlón and surrounding areas this trip is designed for all levels of photographers.  This trip is limited to a maximum 12 participants.All Iceland winter photo tours and workshops for the past 6 years were fully subscribed within a few days so please register as soon as possible.CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

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Photography Photography

Think Tank Photo & MindShift Gear Holiday Specials

BIG SAVINGS! FREE GEAR WITH YOUR ORDERS!  FREE SHIPPING!This holiday, Think Tank Photo, the leading camera bag design firm for serious photographers, and MindShift Gear, the top bag designers for outdoor photography, are offering a big selection of their camera/video bags, laptop bags, and accessories for savings of up to 50% off! By using my special links below, not only do you get these big savings, you get free gear and free shipping on all Think Tank and MindShift Gear you order. Order now while supplies last.THINK TANK PHOTOMINDSHIFT GEAR

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Photography Photography

Fun With The Tiny Lumix ZS70 - P&S Camera

This was the first day of events at Crane Festival in Bosque del Apache.  All my gear was still in the holding area so I decided to try out the ZS70.  This is a tiny point and shoot that fits perfectly in any pocket.  Its hybrid image stabilization coupled with a 30X 720mm optical zoom is ideal for birders who want a decent record shot of the birds they see.These are a sampling of the images I got in the early morning at the first pond on Rt1 before you get to the visitor center. Files converted from RAW to JPG with minimum processing in Lightroom. Images cropped for composition.   As I am here in Bosque at the Festival of Cranes showing photographers and birders what the Lumix camera and lens lineup can do for them, Gary Farber form Hunts Photo & Video is on had with all this great gear for sale at some super prices.  If you need a Lumix Camera or Lens just email Gary at digitalguygary@wbhunt.com and he will surely take care of you.

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Photography Photography

ON1 Photo RAW 2018 now available

The last year was a big transition year at ON1, moving from individual plug-ins to an all-in-one, non-destructive RAW processor/photo editor standalone app. Like all things great, this transition didn't happen without its challenges. With the release of ON1 Photo RAW 2018,  ON1 is in a position to deliver exactly what the photography community wants - a single all-in-one photo editing app, without monthly fees and built completely based on community feedback.ON1 Photo RAW 2018 Available today November 9th  CLICK HERE to order

  • New update includes HDR module, Pano module, tons of updates in masking (Luminosity mask, luminosity zone masks, global mask adjustments, color range masks and more)
  • Versions or virtual copies
  • New user interface
  • New color brushes
  • ON1 Photo for Mobile
  • A viable Lightroom® alternative available today

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Lens, Mirrorless, News, Panasonic, Photography Lens, Mirrorless, News, Panasonic, Photography

Panasonic Leica DG Elmarit 200mm f/2.8 Prime Lens and Teleconverters Announced

Press release:The New Compact, Lightweight Ultra Telephoto Lens with POWER O.I.S. For Handheld 400mm Equivalent Ultra-Telephoto ShootingNovember 8, 2017 (Newark, NJ) – Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is proud to introduce a new telephoto single focal length lens, the LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. (35 mm camera equivalent: 400 mm). The LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. is the first large-diameter ultra-telephoto fixed focal length lens with a name of LEICA DG. It boasts sharpest-ever image quality from corner to corner in the history of LUMIX digital interchangeable lenses. Featuring high mobility in a compact, lightweight design, it also realizes handheld ultra-telephoto shooting.With its 400mm ultra telephoto focal length and stunning descriptive performance, the LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. is suitable for wildlife or sports photography. The 1.4x Teleconverter (DMW-TC14) is bundled*1 to extend the focusing distance to 560mm (35mm camera equivalent) for close-up shots.The fast F2.8 aperture lets you capture fast-moving subjects while the POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) effectively compensates for hand-shake movement, making it easy to shoot even without a tripod or in low-lit situations. The lens works with Dual I.S.*2 (Image Stabilizer) and Dual I.S. 2.0*3 system when mounted on the compliant Panasonic LUMIX DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless) cameras for more powerful hand-shake suppression.Clearing the stringent quality standard of LEICA, the lens is comprised of 15 elements in 13 groups, featuring two UED (Ultra Extra-low Dispersion) lenses. The use of UED lenses and Panasonic cutting-edge optical technology achieve high resolution, high contrast image from corner to corner while suppressing distortion and chromatic aberration.Incorporating a triple linear motor system and max.240 fps sensor drive, the new LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. achieves high-speed, high-precision contrast AF system for both photo and video recording. This stunning AF performance is excellent to record 4K video, where precise focusing is required. In addition, the micro-step drive system in the aperture control section helps the camera smoothly catch up to brightness changes when panning.It boasts a rugged, dust/splash-proof design and are even freeze-proof down to -10℃ (14 degrees F) to withstand professional use under harsh conditions. Offered in sharp, metallic black color, it stylishly matches the LUMIX G Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) cameras.The LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S. can also be used with the 2.0x Teleconverter DMW-TC20 (sold separately), which extends the focusing distance to 800mm (35mm camera equivalent) to capture subjects at a greater distane.*1 The 1.4x Teleconverter (DMW-TC14) is also sold separately as an optional accessory.*2 Dual I.S. is available on GX8, GX80/85*3 Dual I.S. 2.0 is available on GH5, G9, G80/81/85•Some functions of H-ES200 cannot be used with DC-GH5. The firmware for DC-GH5 to fully comply with H-ES200 is scheduled to be released by the end of March, 2018.•Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.•LEICA is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.•ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.The new ELMARIT 200mm lens and accessories will be available in early January 2018. The lens with the 1.4x teleconverter MSRP will be $2,999.99 and the optional 2x teleconverter is $599.99.

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News, Photography, Product Reviews News, Photography, Product Reviews

Panasonic Lumix G9 - Announced

 This announcement is not a review of the G9 but having had the opportunity to briefly use and test this camera, I can say, it is as good as the specs and performs exceptionally well.Panasonic's new Lumix DC-G9 is a camera tailored for pro and advanced stills photographers.  The camera uses the same 20.3 MP sensor as the GH5 but has processing enhancements for better image quality and can be pixel shifted to produce 80MP RAW files.  This sensor ship is ideal for architecture, still life and product photography where high resolutions are demanded. The new High Resolution mode produces an 80-megapixel equivalent (10368 x 7776) image combining 8 consecutively shot images while shifting the sensor. This combined image can not only be set for JPEG but also RAW (in camera).The body has a new control and dial layout and adds a LCD display on the right side of the view finder. The power on and off switch is conveniently located around the shutter release. The mode dial and drive mode dial are concentric and lockable. Drive modes include: Single, Continuous I and II, 6K Photo, Post Focus, Self timer and Time-lapse.  The body is slimmer than the GH5 and has a deeper and very comfortable grip.The joystick is similar to the one found on the GH5. What is new is the OLED electronic viewfinder.  It has a magnification factor of 0.83 x equivalent and a resolution of 3.68 million dots, it is truly impressive. A 3" fully articulating touchscreen LCD is basically the same as the GH5. However you now have the ability to keep the LCD closed and use the top LCD display to read your camera settings, exposure etc. The body supports two SD card slots, both are UHS-II capable. Ports are similar to the GH5 and include HDMI, microphone, headphone, flash sync, USB 3.0 (Micro B) and remote control. The body is weather sealed and will operate at temperatures as low as -10C.The G9 image stabilization is as good if not marginally better than the GH5, offering 6.5 stops of image shake reduction. With a majority of the newer lenses the system will use the proven combined lens and bod Dual I.S. 2 stabilization.Another major improvement is in the focusing system.  The Depth from Defocus system has been significantly refined and now has 225 selectable focus points. This system is not only faster but offers superb tracking that uses a “Deep Learning” technology that detects a human body in addition to the conventional face and eye detection. In addition a new “AF Point Scope” magnifies distant subjects allowing for precise focus and capture.As for speed, the G9 will shoot bursts of 20 fps in continuous autofocus mode using the electronic shutter.  In mechanical shutter mode the speed drops to 9 fps. The buffer capacity is 50 RAW files in a single burst.  However with single AF engaged the G9 can shoot at a blazing fast 60 fps (electronic) and 12 fps (mechanical).  In my brief testing there was no blackout at all using the electronic shutter.The minimum shutter speed is 60 sec. and maximum is 1/8000 sec using the mechanical shutter and 1/32000 sec. using the electronic shutter.  The flash sync speed remains at 1/250 sec.Though the G9 is targeted at stills photographer, it is no video slouch. It will shoot 4K video at up to 60 fps, with a maximum bitrate of 150Mbps. For slo motion capture it will shoot 60 fps in 4K and 180 fps if you select Full HD video.The 4K and 6K photo modes are fully supported as they are in the GH5. There is an optional battery grip available.  The camera comes with a new charger.The G9 and accessories will ship in January 2018 for $1699 body only. The DMW-BGG9 grip for $349.Extracted from the press release:Optional Accessories Specially Designed for LUMIX G9

  • Battery Grip DMW-BGG9 - includes joystick and one additional battery.
  • Eye Cup DMW-EC4 for enhanced viewing and comfort.
  • Battery Charger DMW-BTC13 - enables rapid charging.
  • Shoulder Strap DMW-SSTG9 - length-adjustable and can be detached easily.
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Photography Photography

LUMINAR 2018

Luminar 2018 offers everything a modern photographer needs for photo editing, including new filters powered by artificial intelligence, major speed improvements, a dedicated RAW develop module and a forthcoming in 2018; digital asset management platform.

You will also benefit from the new intelligent Sun Rays filter, LUT support, and real-time noise removal.

With workspaces that match different styles of editing, Luminar adapts to deliver a complete experience that avoids clutter and complexity.

Luminar 2018 has been re-built from the ground up for dramatic performance boosts. Existing filters deliver richer colors and depth in less time. A brand new streamlined user interface speeds up working with presets, filters, and masks. With full support of pro options like layers, masks, and blending modes, complex repairs and photo composites can be easily accomplished.

Offer Availability:

Luminar 2018 will be availabe for pre-order November 1-15, and released on November 16.

Pre-Order Pricing:

  • Current users of Luminar may upgrade at a special pre-order price of $39 ($49 MSRP)
  • New users can purchase Luminar 2018 at a special pre-order price of $59 ($69 MSRP)
  • A collection of bonuses will also be included with every purchase.
  • Beta testers are eligible to receive and additional $10 discount

Pre-Order Bonuses:

  • A Pack of signature presets and textures fro pro photography Nicolesy
  • An Exclusive pack of LUTs
  • 1-year Power plan from SmugMug ($72 value). For new accounts only
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Black & White, Blur, GH5, Lens, Mirrorless, Panasonic, Photographs, Photography, Workshops Black & White, Blur, GH5, Lens, Mirrorless, Panasonic, Photographs, Photography, Workshops

Out of Acadia

This is a late post but never the less the Out of Acadia conference was spectacular.  Over a hundred participants and multiple instructors made the event a great success.  Between leading excursions and doing classes there was not much time to do a lot of photography but this was photographed on the last day at Little Hunters Beach.  Given the shape of the cove and the direction of the sunrise, one has to wait for the light to hit is peninsula.I used my new Leica 12 - 60 mm with the GH5 that I am loving more and more - particularly with Version 2.1 of the firmware update.  Exposure triad: ISO 200, f/7.1, 6 sec at 12mm (24mm equivalent). Benro filter holder with a polarizer and 4 stop ND and a grad.The image below is the same converted to B&W using Capture One 10.

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Photography Photography

Aurora HDR 2018 pre-order

Aurora HDR is not just a tool for merging bracketed images, it also provides numerous tools and countless options to create perfect HDR photos for every taste - from one-click presets and advanced tone-mapping, to layers, noise reduction and powerful luminosity masking controls.
 
Offer Availability:
Aurora HDR 2018 will be availabe for pre-order TODAY, and released on September 28th.
 
Pre-Order Pricing:
  • Current users of Aurora HDR may upgrade at a special pre-order price of $49 ($59 MSRP)
  • New users can purchase Aurora HDR 2018 at a special pre-order price of $89 ($99 MSRP)
  • A collection of bonuses will also be included with every purchase.
 
Pre-Order Bonuses:
 
  • Trey Ratcliff Deep Dive video (HDR Training by Trey Ratcliff)
  • Travel Photography Tutorials by Matt Granger (2 hours of tips, tricks and techniques to capture the best travel photos)
  • Source Brackets (5 sets of HDR brackets)
  • 3-month Zenfolio Pro website, including a complementary design consultation. $60 value.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER

 

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Accessories, Mirrorless, Photography Accessories, Mirrorless, Photography

The New Spectrals

Think Tank Photo have just announced a new line of shoulder bags for DSLR and mirrorless systems.  The new Spectral shoulder bags feature a Fidlock clasp that enables one-handed access to gear and then locks automatically when closing the flap. An additional zippered closure gives peace of mind while traveling and can be tucked away when actively shooting. Constructed with durable yet stylish materials, the Spectral Shoulder Bag offers Think Tank quality and ingenuity at a reasonable price. The Spectral 8 is under $100.  And don’t forget that when you use my URL you will receive free gear and free shipping with your order of all Think Tank gear, including the Spectrals.CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THESE GREAT NEW BAGS

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