Category: New Product

FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Kenji Sukeno) has announced that it will release the “FUJINON GF250mmF4 R LM OIS WR” lens and accompanying “FUJINON Teleconverter GF1.4X TC WR in May 2018, the seventh and eighth lenses in the GF lens series.

The lens and teleconverter will join the lineup of exchangeable GF lenses available for GFX Series medium format mirrorless digital cameras with large sensors (43.8×32.9mm). Thanks to the launch of these new lenses, the shooting range of the GFX exchangeable lens system will greatly expand in the telephoto range. In addition, Fujifilm will also simultaneously launch the macro extension tubes “MCEX-18G” and “MCEX-45G”, to expand the range of macro photography. Users can look forward to using GFX Series products with a new, expanded shooting range, offering more opportunities for photography.

GF Lenses are Fujifilm’s highest-grade lenses, utilizing Fujifilm’s superior optical design technology and production technology realizing high precision lens surface accuracy in order to achieve high-resolution and rich tone reproduction. The GF250mmF4 lens realizes the highest image quality in combination with medium format sized sensors, that have an area approximately 1.7 times larger than 35mm format and with Fujifilm’s unique color reproduction technology.

Fujifilm has already released the “FUJIFILM GFX 50S” (hereinafter “GFX 50S”), the first camera in the “GFX Series,” as well as six “GF Lenses”. All of which have proved popular among professional photographers and photo enthusiasts, who praise the system for its ability to capture high levels of detail, giving the atmosphere a three-dimensional feel, and its compact, lightweight body for easy operation.

The GF250mmF4 R LM OIS WR is a telephoto lens that achieves approximately 198mm in 35mm format equivalent, bringing together Fujifilm’s proprietary optical design technology: it offers high resolving power for supporting further enhancement of image resolution in the future. The lens is capable of capturing the atmosphere of any scene through a combination of high-resolution performance and rich bokeh effect. Attaching the “GF1.4X TC WR”, a 1.4x teleconverter provides coverage for telephoto shooting up to approximately 277mm in 35mm format equivalent, without any image quality deterioration. The lens is also equipped with the new focus pre-set function, which allows the photographer to instantly activate focus settings previously saved in the lens memory. The use of a magnesium alloy lens barrel reduces the product’s weight, and the dust and weather resistant specifications, which also provide the ability to operate in temperatures down to -10°C, ensure that this new lens will serve as a trusted partner for professional photographers.

In addition, the macro extension tubes “MCEX-18G” and “MCEX-45”, which are being released simultaneously, can be connected to any GF lens, expanding the macro photographic range.

1. Main Features

• Ultra-High Image Quality
  The lens is composed of 16 lenses in 10 groups including one super ED lens and two ED lenses, reducing chromatic aberration and achieving excellent image quality. Especially, super ED lens is used to reduces the fluctuations in chromatic aberration depend on the shooting distance. It enables to shoot minimum 1.4m close focus, maximum 0.22 x magnification ratio, and tele-macro shots with large bokeh effects.
• Strong Image Stabilization
  The lens is equipped with a powerful five-stop image stabilization function (CIPA guidelines). This allows photographers to make maximum performance of the GFX’s high image resolution even when taking telephoto shots where image shake might be obvious.
• Various Functions
  The lens’ functionality includes a focus limiter to enable faster autofocus speed by restricting focus range, focus pre-set for memorize focus settings previously set into the lens, and 4 focus control buttons located at the lens front enable to operate focus lock or autofocus.
• Silent and High-Speed Autofocus
  The linear motor to drive the focus lenses achieves high-precision, silent, and fast autofocus operation. In addition, the lens also now includes a new mechanism for fixing the linear motor position when turning the power off or playback, allowing the focus lens to be fixed.
• Robust Design Appropriate for Various Tough Shooting Environments
  The lens barrel is made with a magnesium alloy, ensuring both robust structural integrity and a light weight. Sealing has been applied to the lens in 18 different locations for dust and weather resistance and the ability to operate at temperatures of down to -10°C. A fluorine coating is also applied to the front lens element to repel water and dirt under tough outdoor situations.
• 1.4x teleconverter
  Fujifilm is simultaneously launching the 1.4x teleconverter (GF1.4X TC WR) which allows for telephoto shooting at a focal length of 350mm (approximately 277mm in 35mm format equivalent) while maintaining superior image quality. The maximum aperture is reduced by one F stop. As both the lens and the teleconverter are high quality, there’s hardly any deterioration in MTF when the teleconverter is attached.
• Macro Extension Tube
  Fujifilm has developed 18mm and 45mm macro extension tubes (MCEX-18G WR, MCEX-45G WR), expanding the range of macro photography. Connecting the macro extension tubes to any GF lens allows macro photographs to be taken at a higher magnification ratio. Depending on the magnification ratio required, the photographer can select either the 18mm or 45mm tube.

^{*An upgrade to the GFX50S firmware is required to operate the focus pre-set function and focus control buttons. This functionality is included in the new version of the GFX50S firmware that will be released at the same time.}

In particular, connecting the GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro (half-macro) and the MCEX-45G makes it possible to take photographs with life size 1:1 macro.

https://www.connscameras.ie/p/fujifilm-teleconverter-gf14x-tc-wr/4547410370157

Combining a robust, durable body with superior image quality and easy operation, the FUJIFILM X-H1 is the first camera in the series to include 5-axis 5.5 stops (*1)in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and the new Eterna Film Simulation feature, for outstanding video reproduction.

FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Kenji Sukeno) is delighted to announce the launch of the FUJIFILM X-H1 camera, the highest performance camera in the X Series range of mirrorless cameras, known for its superior image quality created using FUJIFILM’s proprietary color reproduction technology.

The X-H1, with a newly-designed robust and durable body, incorporates a range of extremely useful features that support shooting in various scenarios demanded by professional photographers, videographers. The X-H1 is the first X Series model to include the latest 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which has a maximum of 5.5 stops ^(*1) as well as a flicker reduction mode which enhances the quality of indoor sports photography.

In combination with the existing FUJINON XF lens range,  the camera allows the use of the 5-axis image stabilization in excess of 5-stops, with the exception of some lenses ^(*2).

The camera is also compatible with a range of other interchangeable lenses due for release later this year.  These include the MKX18-55mmT2.9 and MKX50-135mm T2.9 professional cinema lenses which incorporate the X mount (scheduled for release in May 2018), the XF200mmF2 R LM OIS WR, a wide aperture single-focus telephoto lens, and XF8-16mmF 2.8 R WR, designed to meet the needs of scenery or landscape photographers, both of which are scheduled for release by the end of 2018. The new camera and lens combinations will provide outstanding image production and will be ideal for fast action sports photography.

^{*1 With XF 35mmF1.4 lens attached
*2 XF10-24mmF4 R OIS, XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R LM OIS, XF55-200mmF3.5-4.8 R LM OIS}

Standout features

5.5 stops ^(*1) in-body image stabilization (IBIS), a new feature expanding the high-quality photographic range of the X Series.

The first internal in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system to feature in an X Series camera, harnesses three axial accelerometers, three axial Gyro sensors, and a specially developed dual-processor.  Combined, this achieves the high speed of approximately 10,000 calculations per second.  When unified with compensating mechanisms, results in uncompromising image quality and precision with performance as described below.

• 5-axis image stabilization is possible with all XF and XC lenses.
• Up to a maximum of 5.5 stops image stabilization, is possible when the camera is used with all XF lenses that do not include optical image stabilization technology.

The following technical breakthroughs have been developed to support this high precision performance:

• A laser measurement device is used during the process of manufacturing the image stabilization unit, controlling component flatness and position with twice the precision of standard components.
• The assembly process also includes inspection and adjustment of each individual camera to ensure that even when image stabilization is used, the parallel position of the sensor is achieved with micro-order accuracy equivalent to previous models.
• In addition, a new spring mechanism has been included to reduce micro-vibrations caused by operation of the mechanical shutter.
• The photographer may also choose to use the electronic front curtain shutter or the electronic shutter, virtually eliminating the effect of vibrations to maximize the benefits of image stabilization.

The X-H1 uses the APS-C size X-Trans™ CMOS III ^(*3) sensor (24.30 million pixels, without low-pass filter) and the high-speed image processing engine X-Processor Pro. This proprietary FUJIFILM technology was first seen in the X-Pro2 and then X-T2 cameras, receiving many awards globally. When used in combination with the extremely high-quality FUJINON lens, as well as the unique color reproduction technology developed by FUJIFILM more than 8 decades ago, the X-H1 produces outstanding, unrivaled quality images recording the finest details of the subject including its texture, three-dimensional structure and even the atmosphere and vibe of a particular scene.

^{*3 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM. The X-Trans CMOS III sensor uses a unique non-periodic filter array to reduce the appearance of moire patterns and false colors even without an optical low-pass filter.}

2. Highly robust, durable body and easy operability results in comfortable shooting across a wide range of environments

• In addition to the camera’s dust-resistant, water-resistant properties, and the ability to operate in temperatures down to -10°C, the camera also uses a 25% thicker magnesium alloy compared to the X-T2. FUJIFILM has also modified the structure for attaching the mount, resulting in a more compact size and lighter weight body that maintains high precision and strong resistance to impact shock torsion and other sources of deformation.
  Increased particle size on the camera’s external surface provides a high-quality scratch-resistant coating with a surface hardness equivalent to 8H.

• The viewfinder is a high-magnification, high-precision electronic viewfinder. The magnification ratio of 0.75 times and the 3.69 million resolution leads the class for mirrorless cameras. The viewfinder display is extraordinarily smooth, with a display time lag of just 0.005 seconds and a frame rate of 100 frames per second, allowing the photographer to instantly confirm the movement of the subject and position of the focus with great precision.
  The rear LCD monitor is a 3-direction tilt, 3-inch, 1.04 million dot electrostatic touch-panel LCD which can be intuitively set to the desired angle. In addition, the 1.28 inch sub-LCD on the top of the camera, a current feature of the medium format FUJIFILM GFX 50S, allows for instant confirmation of shooting information.

• Improved operability with a total of 19 modifications based on feedback from professional photographers
  • The camera uses a large-grip design with the new shape and a leaf-spring switch for the shutter-release button to achieve a stable feel when holding the camera and easy operation of the shutter-release button to ensure no opportunities are missed.
  • The camera has the quietest shutter sound of all cameras in the X Series, making it an ideal tool for environments where quietness is required such as when shooting animals in the wild, quiet performances or at weddings.
  • A new AF-ON button has been added to the back of the camera. This makes it easier to operate the autofocus with the thumb, allowing the photographer to focus on using their index finger to operate the shutter-release button. In addition, other modifications have been made to improve operability, including the enlargement of the buttons on the rear of the camera and improvements to the grip of the front and rear command dials.
  • The X-H1 also features focus lever that facilitates rapid, accurate movement to the desired focus point.

3. Comprehensive range of video features to support movie production requirements

The X-H1 is the first camera in the X Series to include ETERNA, a new film simulation ideal for shooting movies. This mode simulates cinematic film, creating understated colors and rich shadow tones, greatly enhancing creative freedom during post-processing. The camera’s video image quality has been improved through the new ability to record a high bit rate of 200 Mbps. The camera includes a total of 20 functional and performance improvements including the 1080/120P high-speed video mode (1/2, 1/4 and 1/5 speed slow motion) for recording spectacular slow-motion footage, F-log^(*4) SD card recording which aids smooth workflow, a DCI 4K shooting mode (4096×2160), a 400% dynamic range setting (approximately 12 stops), 200 Mbps high bit rate recording, a high-sound quality internal microphone (24 bit/48 kHz) and verbal time codes.

^{*4 The color space is defined according to ITU-R BT.2020.}

4. The first flicker reduction mode on an X Series camera and improved AF algorithms enhance shooting toughness

Flicker reduction modes are essential for indoor sport photography, and the X-H1 achieves this using a mirrorless camera, allowing for stable exposure during burst shots even under fluorescent and mercury lighting.

In addition, improvements to the AF algorithm have achieved the following performance enhancements:

• The low-light limit for phase detection autofocus has been improved by approximately 1.5 stops from 0.5EV to -1.0EV, raising the precision and speed of autofocus in low-light environments.
• The range at minimum aperture has been expanded from F8 to F11. For example, even when using the XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR with the teleconverter XF2X TC WR, phase detection autofocus can now be used.
• Major improvements have been made to the AF-C performance while operating the zoom, which provides major benefits when shooting sports and other scenarios in which the subjects moves unpredictably.
• Subjects where results with phase detection autofocus were previously poor, such as finely-detailed surface textures; wild birds and wild animals, can now be captured at high speed and with high precision.

5. Separate accessories

• Vertical power boost grip VPB-XH1 *Exclusive for the X-H1
  • 1. Dust-resistant and water-resistant operates at temperatures of down to -10°C. Two batteries may be attached, with a third battery in the body of the camera increasing the maximum number of available shots in normal mode to approximately 900. In boost mode, multiple batteries can be used simultaneously, improving performance for burst shots and reducing the interval between shots, shutter time lag, and the blackout period.
    In addition, the accessory also increases the maximum period for shooting movies in 4K to about 30 minutes, making the VPB-XH1 an essential accessory for maximizing the performance of the X-H1.
  • 2. Controls include the shutter-release button, focus lever, AE-L button, AF-ON button, command dial, Q button, and Fn button, providing the same easy operation when using the camera in both the vertical and horizontal positions.
  • 3. The VPB-XH1 is equipped with a headphone socket, allowing the operator to monitor sound while recording video.
  • 4. The grip also includes recharging capability. The included AC adapter (AC-9VS) can be used to recharge two batteries simultaneously over approximately 2 hours.
• Wide-eye cup EC-XH-W *Common for X Series and GFX cameras
  The wide cup covers a broad area around the eye, greatly reducing light interference and enhancing concentration during long shoots.
  The eye cup can also be rotated in 90° increments, making it adaptable for either the left eye or the right eye and for shooting in either vertical or horizontal position. The cup also includes antistatic coating, reducing the adherence of dust.

Order your camera from https://www.connscameras.ie/p/fujifilm-x-h1/p-4547410365658

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 26th February 2018 – Canon today launches the EOS M50, the latest addition to the EOS M series and Canon’s most intuitive and technologically advanced mirrorless camera yet. Designed for today’s modern adventurers, the EOS M50 is Canon’s first mirrorless camera to feature 4K movie capability, a Vari-Angle touchscreen and Canon’s latest DIGIC 8 image processor.

Coupled with Bluetooth®¹ and Wi-Fi² for seamless connectivity, an APS-C sized 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor for beautiful soft backgrounds and sharp, high-resolution images in low-light situations, and 10 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting for capturing the most fleeting moment in rich defined detail.

The Canon EOS M50 is the perfect choice for confident smartphone and compact camera photographers seeking to enhance their photography capabilities, with a lightweight and highly portable interchangeable lens camera for storytelling to be proud of.

Packed with the latest technology, the Canon EOS M50 distils DSLR quality into a compact body, sleek enough to be taken on any adventure. For a super-fast and responsive autofocus system, the camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF speed enables photographers to capture crisp, high-resolution images and Full HD videos with beautiful depth of field control for sharp subjects and soft backgrounds. The cinematic look and feel achieved by the 24.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor reaches new heights with the addition of 4K movie capture, for enriched detail with four times the resolution of Full HD.

The EOS M50 features Canon’s latest DIGIC 8 image processor, a first for any Canon camera. The new processor powers many of the cameras functions, including: 4K movie recording, 4K time-lapse and 4K frame grabs from 4K movies; fast continuous shooting speed and a standard maximum ISO of 25,600, which allows for low light shooting whilst still obtaining sharp images. The DIGIC 8 image processor also supports a wide range of improvements in autofocus, Auto Lighting Optimiser, Digital Lens Optimiser and Highlight Tone Priority, for superb high-quality images ready to share straight from the camera.

The EOS M50’s bold and contemporary design offers a modern take on a traditional shooting experience, with its large centrally mounted electronic viewfinder. Users can also explore creative shooting angles, take great selfies, and easily record vlogs using the 7.5cm Vari-Angle touchscreen, enabling multiple perspectives for improved story capture. Evolved touchscreen capabilities enable Touch and Drag AF, allowing for instinctive and seamless autofocus point adjustment without taking your eye away from the viewfinder.

Connectivity and control with Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
The Canon EOS M50 integrates effortlessly with smart devices, using the free Canon Camera Connect app for iOS and Android. A constant low energy Bluetooth connection allows a smart device to ‘wake up’ the camera, perform remote triggering, and facilitates a simple switch to Wi-Fi for remote Live View shooting and transferring images.

Photos and videos can be transferred from the camera to smart devices³ automatically for easy sharing on social media sites, making the step from capturing to sharing with the world seamless. In addition, content can be cloud stored to Canon Irista or synced automatically and wirelessly to PCs and Macs with Canon’s Image Transfer Utility 2 installed.

For group shots, vlogs, and interesting creative angles, users can take control of their EOS M50 with Remote Live View shooting via the Canon Camera Connect app, changing settings and previewing shots on a smart device.

Inspiring technologies for stories to be proud of
The Canon EOS M50 automatically captures photos and movies packed with detail, thanks to a host of in-camera optimising technologies enabled by the DIGIC 8 image processor. Memories can be transformed into cinematic epics with the rich detail of 4K movie and the realism of Canon colour.

Up to 120 frames per second HD movie capture enables smooth action sequences and expands options for slow motion playback. Superb action shots can also be captured with fast 10 fps continuous shooting, the first time this has been achieved in a Canon mirrorless camera, and 7.1 fps with continuous AF is also possible.

More images, more storytelling. The EOS M50 is the first camera to feature the new CR3 14-bit RAW file format, as well as a new C-RAW option that creates full resolution RAW files whilst saving approximately 30 to 40% on the file size of standard RAW files – increasing the number of images that can be stored on a memory card yet retaining the flexibility of RAW images.

A lens for every occasion
The EOS M50 is compatible with Canon’s range of compact and high-quality EF-M lenses, allowing users to create their ideal compact system. For ultimate storytelling choice and flexibility, EOS M50 is compatible with over 80 renowned EF and EF-S interchangeable lenses via the Mount Adapter EF-EOS M. This extends to the exploration of flash photography, thanks to a hot shoe that allows simple connection of Canon’s Speedlite flashes, and high-quality audio with a 3.5mm mic input for connecting a dedicated microphone such as Canon’s Directional Stereo Microphone DM-E1.

Canon has produced its most intuitive and powerful mirrorless camera to date, delivering the latest in photographic technology and capabilities. The combination of image processing power, 4K movie capability and the latest in sensor technology, empowers the world’s modern adventurers to start doing their stories justice.

Pricing and availability
The EOS M50 is available to pre-order from Canon’s online store and official Canon dealers from 26th February 2018.

The EOS M50 will be available to purchase from Conns Cameras from March 2018 with the following RSPs:

• EOS M50 body only – €629.99

• EOS M50 + EF-M 15-45mm lens – €759.99

https://www.connscameras.ie/p/canon-eos-m50/eosm50d

Key benefits:

• Modern, hassle free shooting for superb results
• Compact, sleek and intuitive shooting experience
• Clever connectivity and control with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
• Inspiring technologies for stories users will be proud of
• Creative freedom to capture every story

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 26 February 2018 – Canon today launches the world’s first flash equipped with AI Bounce – a new Auto Intelligent (AI) function that takes the fuss and uncertainty out of flash photography. This revolutionary new technology intelligently calculates and maneuvers the flash head position automatically to create optimum lighting for outstanding images. From photo enthusiasts learning how to use flash, to professionals looking for straightforward shooting, the Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI is a must-have for photographers.

Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI

Accomplished portrait, lifestyle and wedding photographer Jo Thorne used the flash whilst it was in development. Commenting on her experience, “Having used the Speedlite 470EX-AI on a few different shoots recently, the results are exceptional – far exceeding my expectations. The Speedlite 470EX-AI’s set-up efficiency means I’m able to capture more in-action moments, which cuts down my post-production time and gives me an abundance of more images to choose from. Using this flash has reignited my love of light, something that can add immense value to an image.”

Revolutionary flash innovation – AI Bounce
The AI Bounce function automates bounce photography within the flash. This never-before-seen innovation uses a test flash to calculate the perfect angle for natural, flattering illumination, whilst automatically moving the motorised flash head into the optimum position for perfect lighting. The full-auto modeⁱ carefully manipulates the flash head for every new shot, eliminating unwanted shooting complications. It also removes the time needed to evaluate the shot and reposition the flash head manually. As a result, photographers of all levels can confidently and quickly use the flash, reassured that the Speedlite 470EX-AI can help deliver consistently beautiful images.

For those with greater experience in flash photography, the semi-auto mode allows the user to set the bounce flash angle for different shooting scenarios. The Speedlite 470EX-AI then automatically adjusts the flash head for different camera orientations. This pioneering technology enhances the opportunity for photographers to be creative with their lighting, whilst achieving consistency in every shot. This is crucial for portrait photographers who regularly alternate between landscape and portrait.

Powerful and reliable
The Speedlite 470EX-AI harnesses the power and reliability of Canon’s flash technology to deliver incredible illumination for diverse lighting scenarios. The revolutionary flash has a Guide No of 47mⁱⁱ to create robust lighting over broader distances; great for shooting in large venues or in complex shooting scenarios, where all subjects need to beautifully lit. The impressive wide lens coverage – from 24mm to 105mm – and 14mm possible with the built-in adaptor, provides a flash distribution extensive enough to illuminate shots captured with a wide-angle lens. This is a particularly beneficial feature for wedding photographers who need to capture group shots.

Even the most spontaneous moments can be captured with natural looking lighting, as the Speedlite 470EX-AI recharges rapidly and silently in 5.5 seconds to full power with 4 AA/LR6 batteries, or 3.5 seconds with rechargeable NiMH batteries. This is first-class when swiftly capturing consecutive shots, such as during weddings or parties. The Speedlite 470EX-AI features a high-speed sync function, which enables the flash to be fired several times in rapid succession and thus uses a higher shutter speed than normally possible. This is particularly useful for action shots, or to create a darkened or blurred background for stand-out images.

Satisfy your creativity, extend your control
By rotating the flash head 180 degrees left and right, plus 120 degrees upwards, the AI Bounce flash function enables photographers to adapt to different environments and remove unwanted shadows. The bounce adaptor can be clipped onto the Speedlite 470EX-AI to deliver softer illumination, allowing for much more radiant portrait shots. With this level of control over the flash, photographers can focus on capturing high-quality, well-lit imagery that consistently delivers unrivaled results.

With 19 custom functions, the Speedlite 470EX-AI offers complete creative control as the photographer can personalise the settings in pursuance of capturing beautiful and unique shots. The wireless optical receiver function allows the flash to be used at distances of up to 10m away from the camera. With a built in Speedlite transmitter function or Speedlite with Optical transmitter, further creative capturing is enabled via experimenting with varying lighting scenarios. This is perfect for photographers aiming to develop and create their own lighting style. The dot-matrix LCD panel provides an intuitive interface, guiding photographers to easily navigate the flash settings and select how diffused or concentrated the light is via priority settings. To achieve maximum flash output, shortcut buttons and a control wheel provide fast access to settings, delivering a creative fall-off effect and an even distribution of light across the whole image.

Pricing and availability
The Speedlite 470EX-AI will be available to purchase from Conns Cameras from April 2018 with a RSP of €599.

https://www.connscameras.ie/p/canon-speedlite-470ex-ai/4549292084658

Key Features

• AI Bounce with Full-Auto and Semi-Auto modes
• Guide Number 47 (m, ISO 100)
• Wide flash coverage 24 to 105mm
• Wireless Optical Receiver
• Large LCD and intuitive user interface