New Entaniya HAL 200 6mm Fisheye

By Louis Ferreira | Published: April 19, 2023


Entaniya has some very interesting wide fisheye lenses, and B&H Photo is now distributing them.

Shoot super-wide, 200° accent shots with the HAL 200 6mm Fisheye Lens for Sony E Mount from Entaniya. Even when you crop your image with a 16:9 aspect ratio, you’ll still be left with a 180° vertical angle of view.

Instead of an iris ring that controls diaphragm blades, this lens uses a set of aperture rings which must be manually swapped with an included tool. Exposure can also be adjusted with the two included ND filters.

Note: This lens uses a set of aperture rings, not adjustable diaphragm blades.

Angle of View
This lens boasts a super-wide 200° when using the entirety of your full-frame sensor. Many shooters select a 16:9 aspect ratio, which makes the image appear wider by cropping the top and bottom. This reduces the vertical angle of view to 180°, flattening the top and bottom edges. Horizontally, you’ll still get vignetting at the rim of the 200° AoV.

Aperture Rings
The process of changing the aperture is more complicated than turning an iris ring, requiring you to remove the lens from the camera, open the rear of the lens with an included hand tool, then swap one aperture ring for another. From an engineering perspective, the complex mechanism of the diaphragm blades is drastically simplified with these aperture ring components, but that comes at the cost of the shooter’s time. The time investment of swapping aperture rings yields a valuable reward; you’ll achieve bokeh with perfectly rounded highlights. Two ND filters are included to limit the frequency of aperture ring swaps.

Extra-Low Dispersion Elements
Four of the 17 elements of the lens are made with extra-low dispersion glass. This preserves the image’s finer details while reducing chromatic aberration and color fringing.

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Sony Airpeak S1 Drone Battery Accessory Announced

By Louis Ferreira | Published: April 18, 2023

Sony Releases new Enhanced Battery, Real Time Kinematic Kit, and a new Advanced Lightweight Gimbal for Airpeak S1

Sony Airpeak S1: B&H Photo / Adorama

Sony Electronics Announces the Launch of New Accessories and Advancements for its Professional Airpeak S1 Drone
Sony releases new Enhanced Battery, Real Time Kinematic Kit, and a new Advanced Lightweight Gimbal for Airpeak S1

SAN DIEGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Electronics Inc. announced today new upgrades for their Airpeak S1 drone, aimed at enhancing the precision, performance, and reliability of the drone for a wide range of applications1. The new upgrades include an RTK Kit, a new advanced and lightweight gimbal, and an enhanced battery2, providing industrial users with the tools necessary to capture high-quality aerial footage and data. These exciting developments promise to take the capabilities of the S1 to new heights, by offering a significant boost to efficiency, productivity and overall functionality.

The Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Kit
The Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Kit for Sony’s Airpeak S1 is an exciting development that further enhances the capabilities of drones for industrial applications. With the RTK system, the Airpeak S1 can achieve highly precise positioning and navigation without lag, enabling it to maintain a stable flight path and gather precise data to geotag images for inspections and other applications.

The RTK system uses a base station that receives satellite signals from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and an Airpeak mounted receiver that uses these signals to determine its position, making for stable flight even in environments with strong magnetic field interference. By comparing the signals from multiple GNSS satellites, the system can calculate Airpeak’s precise location, velocity, and orientation, providing centimeter-level accuracy in positioning and reproducible flight. This provides centimeter-level accuracy in positioning, allowing the S1 to maintain a stable flight path and gather precise data for inspections and other applications. Alternatively, to the use of the base station, the RTK system can be connected to the internet and make use of a GNSS correction data service to achieve centimeter-level accuracy supporting various work environments.

Looking ahead, the networking port currently available with the RTK Kit for Airpeak S1 could open additional use cases, further enhancing the value of drones for a variety of industries. The geotagging feature has the ability to sync image and mapping data which is key for any user. Overall, the RTK Kit for Sony’s Airpeak S1 is an exciting development that promises to take the capabilities of drones for industrial applications to new heights.

Gremsy Gimbal, PX1 for Airpeak
The Gremsy Gimbal, PX1 for Airpeak, is a state-of-the-art, lightweight gimbal that has been designed specifically to be used with Sony’s Airpeak drone and provides an extensive range of advanced features to capture high-quality aerial footage and data. The PX1 is particularly useful for industries that require superior image quality and accuracy, such as those involved in inspecting wind turbines or surveying urban developments. The PX1 can achieve all of this while being over 40% lighter than the Gremsy Gimbal T3 for Airpeak saving valuable weight to improve flight time.

The PX1 operates smoothly with compatible with full-size mirrorless interchangeable lens α cameras such as Sony’s A7R V, A7R IV, or the A7R IVA cameras, and it supports various lenses such as the Zeiss 35mm F2.8, the 24mm F2.8G, 40mm F2.5 G, or the 50 F2.5 G. When combined with the RTK Kit, via Hot Shoe Cable, it can even more precisely record positioning and log orientation to capture vital data. The powerful motors and advanced control algorithms allow the S1 to handle its payload more effectively, even in challenging conditions.

The PX1 also pairs with Airpeak and the Flight app via the remote controller,3 allowing users to control the gimbal’s movements and adjust camera settings with precise tuning. Settings can be changed and adjusted according to the situation without touching the camera, enabling streamlined operation during capturing. In addition, it supports touch-operated focus area setting and selection of focus position. The focus position can be flexibly changed on the mobile app, enabling more accurate capturing.

It’s easy to use with only 2 mounting points and the ability to swap out cards and batteries without having to remove the camera from the gimbal. The PX1 is an essential tool for businesses that demand high-quality footage, data, and reliable performance.

Enhanced Battery:
Sony’s new LBP-HM1 Battery is specifically designed to provide longer flight times2. Combined with the previously announced LBP-H1 Battery Station, increased efficiency for Airpeak S1 drone is realized. In the case of industrial applications such as inspections and surveying2  where longer flights and less downtime to cover more ground and perform more tasks are required, these two products provide increased productivity.

The LBP-HM1 battery has a higher capacity than the previous generation, which allows for longer flight times and less need for battery changes, minimizing the risk of accidents and need for battery swaps. The Airpeak S1 can now fly for up to 30 minutes without a payload and when combined with the new RTK Kit, PX1 gimbal, an A7RIV, and the Zeiss 35mm F2.8, users can expect flight times up to 20 minutes2. A configuration with the T3 gimbal for Airpeak, A7S III and a 24mm F1.4 G-Master lens can realize up to 17 minutes.

The LBP-HM1 battery is tailored to deliver superior performance and seamless integration with the advanced capabilities of the Airpeak S1. With its intelligent battery management system, users can access real-time information about the battery’s status through the Airpeak Flight App3, enabling them to optimize its performance2. Additionally, the battery boasts four LEDs that provide clear feedback on its charge level and charging progress, enhancing its ease of use and accessibility. In sum, the Airpeak S1 and LBP-HM1 battery are poised to offer a significant boost to efficiency, productivity and overall functionality.

Pricing and Availability
RTK Kit w/ Base Station (RTK-1)
RTK GNSS system for Airpeak S1 with high-precision positioning capability
MSRP: $3,999.99 USD
Customer Delivery Date: June 9, 2023

Gremsy Gimbal PX1 for Airpeak (GBL-PX1)
Lightweight, easy-to-use gimbal for the enterprise
Price: $3.999.99 USD
Customer Delivery Date: May 19, 2023

3,938mAh Enhanced Battery for Airpeak S1 (LBP-HM1)
High-capacity battery for extended flight time
Price: $399.99 USD
Customer Delivery Date: June 23, 2023

New System Firmware Updates
As part the new product releases, Sony is also updating the Airpeak system software to version 2.0.0 for the aircraft and controller.  This new software provides support for the newly released products, gimbal camera shake correction in combination with the FX3 camera (for video only), and the addition of display and notification functions to improve usability during shooting among other enhancements. The ongoing system software updates made to the Airpeak since introduction are part of Sony’s commitment to enhance the Airpeak system.

To learn more about this recent update, please visit:
https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/other-products-drones/ars-s1#downloads

For more information about Airpeak, please visit: https://electronics.sony.com/airpeak

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, 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:

  1. Operating a drone in the United States is subject to federal law and regulations. State and local ordinances may also apply to certain operations. When operating an aircraft, it is the remote pilot/operator’s responsibility to always comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.
  2. Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, storage, and usage. Batteries are consumable products, and their capacity degrades over time as they age. Sony does not guarantee the life span of the battery.
  3. All apps require network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted, or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration, and credit card information.
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Meike 85mm f/1.4 First Look

By Louis Ferreira | Published: April 17, 2023

Meike will launch an 85mm f/1.4 AF lenses soon for E-mount. The lens first appeared at the NAB show and should be released soon. The lens will have a MF/AF switch and a custom button and come to E-mount and more. Meike lenses can be found on the Meike Amazon Store.

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via FIP

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7Artisans 15mm f/4 Now Available

By Louis Ferreira | Published: April 16, 2023


The new 7Artisans 15mm f/4 is now available on Amazon

  • 9 groups of 13 elements
  • 10 aperture blades
  • the closest focusing distance is 0.4m
  • stepped aperture design
  • all metal material
  • 77mm filter interface
  • detachable design hood
  • weighs about 550g
  • 1699 for sale

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VILTROX AF 16mm f/1.8 FL and AF 75mm f/1.2 Details Leaked

By Louis Ferreira | Published: April 15, 2023


The Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8 FL that was first reported here should become available in May according to Viltrox’s new teaser from weibo

  • Eye-popping wide-angle large-aperture lens
  • Suggested retail price: xxxx yuan
  • Release date: May x

Below is the first image of the Viltrx AF 75mm f/1.2 along with some specs.

  • angle of view as a full frame 115mm
  • 16 elements in 11 groups
  • 11 aperture blades
  • 0.88m-∞ focus range
  • inner focus system
  • body size 87×101mm
  • weight approx. 669g
  • Compatible with 77mm filter

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VILTROX 85mm f/1.8 II: B&H Photo / Amazon
VILTROX 56mm f/1.4: B&H Photo / Amazon
VILTROX 33mm f/1.4: B&H Photo / Amazon
VILTROX 23mm f/1.4: B&H Photo / Amazon
VILTROX 13mm f/1.4: B&H Photo / Amazon

Viltrox 50mm f/1.8: B&H Photo / Amazon
Viltrox 35mm f/1.8: B&H Photo / Amazon
Viltrox 24mm f/1.8: B&H Photo / Amazon

via asobinet

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TIPA 2023 Award Winners Announced

By Louis Ferreira | Published: April 14, 2023


The 2023 TIPA Awards have been announced, and Sony did quite well.

BEST FULL FRAME PROFESSIONAL CAMERA Sony Alpha 7R V
TIPA editors were unanimous in their choice of the Alpha 7R V as a highly impressive, responsive, and flexible camera that raises the bar on features and functions for working pro photographers. It offers a 61MP full frame sensor, 8K video recording, and an 8-stop image stabilization system, plus it offers unprecedented accuracy and speed in tracking and predicting a host of subject’s movement with its advanced AI-powered autofocus system. Thanks to its Exmor R BSI and BIONZ XR Processor, the Alpha 7R V features a remarkable 15-stop dynamic range and expanded low-light capability. When the action is fast and split moment shots are crucial, photographers can make good use of the ability to capture 10 fps at full resolution for up to 583 consecutive compressed RAW frames – with full-time AE/AF – and, in JPEG capture, an incredible 1000 consecutive frames in a single burst.

BEST PROFESSIONAL CONTENT CREATOR CAMERA Sony ZV-E1
Designed for demanding content creators who want to record both on the go and fixed setup content without the need of a crew or post processing, the compact and full-frame ZV-E1 offers new Al functions for tracking moving subjects, can handle multiple subject interactions, and can be set up for visual effects and moods via numerous cinematic vlog settings. Control options are easily accessed via the on-camera touchscreen and remotely via smartphones. Its Dynamic Active Mode provides increased stabilization for newfound freedom when shooting handheld while the AI chip intelligently crop in the image in order to keep your subject always at the centre of attention. Numerous connectivity options include livestreaming via a USB connection. An onboard 3-capsule mic covers directionality shifts and can be set or manually or on auto detection. A bonus is access to the Sony Creators’ Cloud ecosystem that allows for cloud-based editing and media sharing.

BEST WIDE-ANGLE PRIME LENS SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG DN | Art
Poll serious photographers about their favorite street, architecture, and even landscape prime lens and the 24mm focal length is sure to be a top choice. This fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, 11-bladed diaphragm lens also delivers ideal specs for nighttime and low-light capture, including astrophotography, featuring 2 FLD and 1 SLD glass elements and 4 aspherical elements that eliminate distortion and significantly suppress coma flare. The facility of the lens is enhanced by 2 filter holders, a front 72mm filter thread for ND and polarizer filters plus a rear filter holder that accommodates sheet-type filters, used by night sky photographers for special effects. The lens delivers both edge-to-edge sharpness and advanced optical and mechanical design, critical in this focal length class.

BEST STANDARD PRIME LENS Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM
Offering a super-fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, this prime lens is ideal for low light and candid shooting. With an 11-blade diaphragm and 40.6cm close focusing capability, this G Master lens is ideal as a general purpose lens that can deliver startlingly smooth backgrounds and rich bokeh. TIPA editors were impressed by the incorporation of new design and control features that make it as ideal for video as it is for still photography, including two focus hold buttons and a Linear Response manual focus ring for fine focus control. Dust and moisture-resistant construction pays special attention to seams, buttons and switches while a fluorine front element coating further protects it from challenging conditions. Like all Sony G Master lenses, special elements minimise aberrations and distortion while providing outstanding resolution, sharpness and enhanced clarity and colour accuracy.

BEST MACRO LENS AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe
From ultra-wide to super telephoto to fisheyes, special-purpose lenses allow for unique exploration of the world around us. This “probe” optic with a maximum magnification ratio of 2:1 offers an aperture range of f/13 through to f/40 with a working distance from the front element of just 0.3 inches (8mm). Both the focusing and aperture rings use M.O.D. gears for connecting to follow focus systems. An integrated LED array on the front lens, with 10 intensity levels, draws power from a separate USB-C port. The light and probe can also be submerged up to 9.8 inches (25cm) for underwater macro capture. Available in numerous camera mounts, it’s one of the most unique lenses TIPA members have seen.

BEST STANDARD ZOOM LENS Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
Modern lenses must meet the needs of video, including vlogging, as well as those of still photographers. The Sony FE 20-70mm hits both marks plus serves as an excellent wide to normal lens that extends the universal 24-70mm zoom to a very useful 20mm at the short end. For videographers, when zoomed wide it offers an extensive field of view for selfies, landscape and event photography with excellent edge to edge sharpness, while the “portrait” 70mm length is perfect for POV, interview, and detail work, with a 9-bladed diaphragm for soft bokeh effects. Two XD motors provide smooth and silent AF performance, while an updated design eliminates focus breathing, focus shift, and axial shift, with active mode image stabilization adding even quality to its video capabilities.

BEST TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS TAMRON 50-400mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD
The Tamron 50-400mm lens is an ideal choice for a wide range of photographic applications, thanks to its close focusing distance of 25cm (9.9 inches) at the 50mm setting. Whether you’re shooting sports events, wildlife, or landscapes, this lens is compact and easy to transport, with an overall length of only 183.4mm (7.2 inches). To ensure sharp and stable shots, the lens features a VXD linear focusing mechanism and a vibration compensation system (VC) that helps reduce camera shake in low light or when shooting at slower shutter speeds. This allows you to take advantage of a wider range of shooting opportunities, even in challenging lighting conditions. In addition to its still photography capabilities, the Tamron 50-400mm lens can also be used for movie shooting when combined with the Tamron Lens Utility.

BEST SUPERZOOM LENS SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports
This 10X zoom lens is designed as an essential tool for aerial, sports and wildlife photographers. From a close-focusing range of 45cm (17.8in.) at the wide end to its super-tele range, pinpoint focusing is assured via its newly designed HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motor that delivers high focus-following performance. In use, its dual action zoom is a great aid in the field by allowing both rotary and straight zooming. Its zoom lock control at all marked focal distances, and three easy access AFL buttons also contribute to an excellent usability. To assure steady shots even in challenging conditions the lens incorporates SIGMA’s new OS2 optical stabilizer algorithm that delivers a startling 7 stops at the wide end and 6 stops at the telephoto end.

BEST CONTENT CREATOR LENS TAMRON 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD
The Tamron 20mm F/2.8 lens is a compact and versatile option for mirrorless camera systems, with an ergonomic design that works well with gimbals or camera rigs. It’s a great choice for vloggers and content creators, particularly when used with the Tamron Lens Utility software. The lens’s wide field of view is ideal for selfies, while the 40mm focal length is well-suited for close-ups and scene-setting. The lens is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for on-the-go photography, including landscapes, travel, street, and family events. It’s designed for use with Sony E-mount cameras and features a VXD linear motor focusing mechanism that provides accurate autofocus. It also supports Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF functions on select cameras.

via TIPA

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