Tokina 11-18mm f/2.8 ATX-M Announced

By Louis Ferreira | Published: September 14, 2022



Tokina 11-18mm f/2.8 ATX-M: B&H Photo / Adorama / Amazon

Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd. is proud to announce the sales release of the Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E for Sony E (APS-C) camera mount.

Sales will commence on September 16, 2022.

Overview
The Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E is the first super wide angle zoom lens in Tokina’s product line-up designed exclusively for mirrorless cameras. It features a fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range, and a 11-18mm (17-27mm in 35mm equivalent) zoom stored in a compact and lightweight body for hybrid users who shoot stills and video.

The atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E performs impressive resolution from the wide to tele end of the zoom. This lens boasts high contrast and low distortion, and quick and precise AF response in still and video modes. It is fully compatible with Sony camera functions, including Image Stabilization, Direct Manual Focus, MF Assist and optical corrections.

With its compact design, versatile focal length and optical quality, the Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E is the perfect gear for shooting landscape, group photos, environmental portraits, architecture, automobile photography, street snaps, documentary videos and vlogging.

Highlighted Features

  • 11-18mm super wide angle zoom for dynamic landscape and architecture.
  • Fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range for shallower depth-of-field, and 9 blades rounded diaphragm for soft bokeh background.
  • Compact and lightweight design to carry while travelling, or attaching to gimbals.
  • 2 aspherical and 2 super low-dispersion glass elements suppress chromatic aberrations.
  • Superb optical design performs rich color reproduction, low distortion and low light fall-off.
  • Short minimum focusing distance to create unique wide-angle macro images with perspective effect.
  • Silent ST-M motor unit for fast and precise auto focusing operations in still and video modes.
  • Full compatibility with Sony E cameras, including Image Stabilization, Direct Manual Focus, MF Assist mode, Eye AF and optical corrections.
  • Micro USB port (Type B) for firmware updates.

Lens overview:

  • The Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E is the first super wide angle zoom lens in Tokina’s product line-up designed exclusively for mirrorless cameras. It features a fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range, and a 11-18mm (17-27mm in 35mm equivalent) zoom stored in a compact and lightweight body for hybrid users who shoot stills and video.
  • The atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E performs impressive resolution from the wide to tele end of the zoom. This lens boasts high contrast and low distortion, and quick and precise AF response in still and video modes. It is fully compatible with Sony camera functions, including Image Stabilization, Direct Manual Focus, MF Assist and optical corrections.
  • With its compact design, versatile focal length and optical quality, the Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F2.8 E is the perfect gear for shooting landscape, group photos, environmental portraits, architecture, astrophotography, automobile photography, street snaps, documentary videos and vlogging.
  • MSRP: 699 USD / 799 EURO

Lens featrures:

  • 11-18mm super wide angle zoom for dynamic landscape, architecture and astrophotography
  • Fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range for shallower depth-of-field, and 9 blades rounded diaphragm for soft bokeh background
  • Compact and lightweight design to carry while travelling, or attaching to gimbals
  • 2 aspherical and 2 super low-dispersion glass elements suppress chromatic aberrations
  • Superb optical design performs rich color reproduction, low distortion and low light fall-off
  • Short minimum focusing distance to create unique wide-angle macro images with perspective effect
  • Silent ST-M motor unit for fast and precise auto focusing operations in still and video modes
  • Full compatibility with Sony E cameras, including Image Stabilization, Direct Manual Focus, MF Assist mode, Eye AF and optical corrections
  • Micro USB port (Type B) for firmware updates

Lens design and MTF charts:

via Photorumors

Posted in 3rd Party Lens| Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Sigma 15-24mm f/1.8, 16-28mm f/1.8, and 18-30mm f/1.8 Patents Found

By Louis Ferreira | Published: September 13, 2022


Digicame-info found some interesting wide-angle Sigma zoom lens patents that are f/1.8. The Sigma 15-24mm f/1.8, 16-28mm f/1.8, and 18-30mm f/1.8 could all be useful zooms, but they will likely be very expensive given their fast apeture.

･IP Force

  • Applicant: Sigma Co., Ltd.
    Publication number: P2022126058
    Application number: P 2021023909
    Publication date: 2022-08-30Title
    of invention: Zoom lens
  • A large aperture wide-angle zoom lens capable of high-speed AF control, suppressing aberration fluctuations during focusing, and compatible with a large format camera is provided with a compact optical system.
  • The zoom lens described in Patent Document 1 achieves weight reduction of the focus group. However, it is difficult to apply to a large-aperture zoom lens because of its dark open F-number and insufficient correction of various aberrations such as longitudinal chromatic aberration and curvature of field.
  • The zoom lens described in Patent Document 2 achieves weight reduction of the focus group and improves longitudinal chromatic aberration and curvature of field as compared with Patent Document 1. However, since the total length of the optical system is long, it is not realistic to make the optical system extremely large if it is to be used with a large-aperture camera or a large-format camera with a large maximum image height.
  • According to the present invention, the optical system is made compact by shortening the overall length and reducing the outer diameter. The focus lens group is light, and high-speed AF control is possible. It is possible to provide a large-aperture, wide-angle zoom lens that can be used with any camera and has high optical performance.

  • 実施例1（17-28mm F1.8）ズーム比
    1.54焦点距離
    17.55 21.66 27.10
    Fナンバー 1.86 1.86 1.86
    全画角 105.33 89.54 74.48像高
    21.63 21.63 21.63
    レンズ全長 158.61 150.53 144.72バックフォーカス
    24.7396 27.5879 30.5018

  • 実施例4（18-30mm F1.8）ズーム
    比 1.57
    焦点距離 18.50 23.38 29.10
    Fナンバー 1.86 1.86 1.86
    全画角 102.72 85.20 70.59像高
    21.63 21.63 21.63
    レンズ全長 161.98 154.83 150.90バックフォーカス
    24.8386 27.2225 29.4450

  • Example 5 (15-24mm F1.8)
    Zoom ratio 1.51
    Focus distance 15.97 23.30
    F Number 1.86 1.86 1.86
    Full angle 113.73 83.73 83.24
    Image height 21.63 21.63 21.63
    Lens total length 159.50 15.020 1510 104.76
    Back FOCSHOFOC FOKSD1020101010101010 154

  • Example 7 (16-28mm F1.8)
    Zoom ratio 1.64
    Focusing distance 16.50 21.11 27.10
    F Number 1.86 1.86 1.86
    Full angle 109.30 91.25 74.48
    Image height 21.63 21.63 21.63
    Lens length 161.94 157.76
    Back Focus 24.76 Back Focus 246.76 Back Focus 246.76 Back Focus 246.76 Buck Focus 246.76 Buck Focus 246.76 Buck Focus 24.76 Buckfork 16

via digicame-info

Posted in 3rd Party Lens, Patents| Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Additional Laowa FFII 58mm f/2.8 CA-Dreamer 2x Magnification APO Macro Information

By Louis Ferreira | Published: September 12, 2022


The Laowa FFII 58mm f/2.8 CA-Dreamer 2x Magnification APO Macro hasn’t been officially announced yet, but there is what appears to be a press article on weixin giving us some additional details and images captured by the lens.

You can buy Laowa lenses and accessories directly from Venus Optics, or Amazon / B&H Photo.


  • Full frame standard focal length, mirrorless design
  • APO Apochromatic Technology
  • For Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z, and Leica L mounts
  • Maximum magnification: 2x
  • Lens design: 13 elements in 11 groups, 3 ED lenses 3, high refractive index lenses
  • Aperture blades: 13
  • Minimum focusing distance: 18.3cm
  • Shortest working distance: 5.8cm
  • Filter diameter: φ67mm
  • Dimensions: 74mm x 117mm
  • Weight: 548g
  • Additional pictures:

via Photorumors

Posted in 3rd Party Lens| Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Samyang V-AF First Look Video

By Louis Ferreira | Published: September 11, 2022

Samyang V-AF lenses were first announced here, and they look like a great option for videographers looking for compact light auto-focus cine lenses. The lenses were at the IBC 2022 Samyang booth. It’s interesting that Samyang is making all the lenses the same size and weight so that you can quickly swap them without having to recalibrate your gimbal.

Release Dates
75mm T1.9 was released 2 days ago
24/35mm Q4 2022
45mm Q2 2023
20mm Q4 2023

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Sony Electronics Announces New VENICE Extension System 2 and VENICE 2 Version 2.00 Firmware Update

By Louis Ferreira | Published: September 10, 2022

 


Sony Rialto Camera Extension System 2 for Sony VENICE/VENICE 2:
B&H Photo

Explora

Sony Electronics Announces New VENICE Extension System 2 and VENICE 2 Version 2.00 Firmware Update with Powerful New Features and Capabilities
BY: SONYCINE TEAM

LOS ANGELES, September 8, 2022 – Sony Electronics Inc. is announcing new updates and developments for the VENICE 2 motion picture camera system, including the release of the VENICE Extension System 21 for expanded flexibility and version 2.00 firmware update.

“The VENICE 2 was born from the voice and feedback of the cinema community,” said Theresa Alesso, President of Imaging Products and Solutions Americas, Sony Electronics Inc. “Thanks to the continued feedback of our customers, we have been able to fuel the ongoing development of this powerful full-frame cinema camera with the mission to enable more creative freedom.”

VENICE Extension System 2
The VENICE Extension System 2 is an updated version of the original VENICE Extension System and will be showcased for the first time at IBC 2022 in Amsterdam from September 9th to 12th in the Sony booth. The Extension System 2 is a tethered extension system that allows the camera body to detach from the actual image sensor block with no degradation in image quality.

The VENICE Extension System 2 adds important enhancements over the original, including compatibility with both the VENICE and the VENICE 22 and can transmit wide bandwidth sensor data over longer distances. In addition, the Extension System 2 offers greater mobility and compatibility with either a 3-meter or a 12-meter cable – without the need for a repeater.

Thanks to its small size and light weight, filmmakers have greater creative freedom with the ability to shoot in tight spaces, go handheld or mount the Extension System 2 on gimbals and cranes.

“The original VENICE Rialto System has been such a great resource to give me added flexibility for feature films. On Top Gun: Maverick, the small form factor of three VENICE Extension System, paired with three cameras, allowed us to place 6 VENICE cameras, in the cockpit of an F-18 fighter jet to capture the excitement of flying in-camera. The extension system has given me the flexibility to be as creative as I want to be,” said Oscar award-winning3 cinematographer Claudio Miranda ASC.

Academy-award-winning cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt4 has been shooting with the VENICE 2 Extension System on an upcoming project. He offered this feedback, “The VENICE 2 Rialto has been a huge asset for me. It frees us to use the sensor we already love in ways we never could without it.”

In addition, the Extension System 2 is nearly the same size of the original system, measuring 158 x 147 x 126 mm, and weighing around 2.1 kg5. For added capabilities, such as when shooting for Visual FX, the Extension System 2 is equipped with a tilt/roll sensor6 on the camera head that detects motion. It records this information in the metadata and outputs the data through the camera’s SDI.

For added functionality, the Extension System 2 also has four assignable buttons7 – making it perfect for handheld configurations. This feature allows buttons to be assigned for functions, such as changing ND filters, REC Start/Stop, etc.


Pricing and Availability
The new VENICE Extension System 2 will be available in early 2023 for approximately $18,999.99 USD and $24,399.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

A product video on the new VENICE Extension System 2 can be viewed HERE.

VENICE 2 Version 2.00 Firmware Update
VENICE 2 Version 2.00 adds new features and capabilities specifically requested by production professionals, including new imager modes, higher recording speeds, and sync functions for working with LED walls and volumes.

Added imager modes and recording speeds, include:

Full Frame88.6K 17:9Up to 48 fps
 8.2K 2.39:1Up to 72 fps
 8.1K 16:9Up to 48 fps
Super 35 Anamorphic95.8K 4:3Up to 60 fps
Super 355.5K 2.39:1Up to 120 fps

Version 2.00 will also allow users to embed LUT (Look Up Table) and CDL (Color Decision Lists) data in clips. It also offers new monitor-out functions such as zoom to fit for anamorphic lenses and the ability to change the position of the recording status indicator and playback status indicator up to eight positions to the center of the screen – a needed function when in zoom to fit anamorphic modes.

Additionally, the VENICE 2 Version 2.00 firmware update comes with added functionality to assist with focus. Version 2.00 allows one of nine positions on the viewfinder to be magnified to assist with focus and shooting. New functions also allow users to output the same image as the viewfinder with settings, such as peaking and zebra10, from monitor-out. Playback functions have also been improved. Playback position in the clip is now displayed and allows frame-by-frame playback. Now, EI metadata is also applied during playback.

New functionality has also been added for virtual production. Version 2.00 firmware update adds sync functions, including phase shifting of Genlock, which enables you to shift on-camera artifacts until they minimized. Additionally, Genlock is now available when shooting at high frame rates.11

VENICE 2 Version 2.00 will be released in early 2023.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new VENICE Extension System 2 and VENICE 2 as well as Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.sonycine.com a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony Cinema Line.

For more information visit sony.com/VENICE.

1 To use the VENICE Extension System 2, VENICE2 firmware Ver2.00 and VENICE firmware 6.3 are necessary and will be available in early 2023.
2 Compatible with the VENICE 2 6K and the VENICE 2 8K
3 Claudio Miranda won an Academy award in 2013 for Best Cinematography for “Life of Pi”
4 2021 Academy Award for Best Cinematography for “Mank”
5 With a PL mount adapter when used with the VENICE 2 8K sensor block excluding a cable
6 As of Sept 2022, the Tilt/Roll and recording to metadata function only works with the VENICE 2. VENICE doesn’t support tilt/roll sensor or recording to metadata and output through SDI.
7 As of Sept 2022, only assignable button 3 is available for VENICE
8 Full Frame license required
9 Anamorphic license needed
10 Other functions can also be included
11 Genlock is now available when the frame rate (fps) is N-fold* of the Genlock frequency *N must be 2 or above. When N is 1, Genlock is not available.

Posted in Video| Tagged , | 2 Comments

MonsterAdapter LA-VE2: Minolta V-Mount to Sony E-Mount AF adapter

By Louis Ferreira | Published: September 9, 2022


MonsterAdapter started a campaign for the updated LA-VE2: Minolta V-Mount to Sony E-Mount AF adapter and the MonsterAdapter Minolta Vectis – Sony E-mount adapter LA-VE2 (autofocus version as attached photo) will be crowdfunded on Indiegogo soon. The retail price will be $249, but the first 50 backers will only spend $179 and the next 150 will pay $199 with the rest paying $219. The campaign will start at 10am on September 10, 2022 (GMT+8) and end on October 10.

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Posted in 3rd Party Lens, Accessories| Tagged , | 2 Comments