Nikon will soon release a Nikon Z firmware update to add Eye AF, Raw video and CFexpress support

Press text:

The Nikon Z Series: Upcoming Firmware on Display

The Nikon Z series will continue to adapt to changing user needs through the development and roll-out of firmware updates to meet and exceed creative expectations. Taking into account feedback from photographers and creators, Nikon will display three feature updates under development that open creative opportunities for the Z 6 and Z 7. Displays will include:

  • CFexpress – Coming soon to the Z 6 and Z 7 cameras is support for CFexpress, which is compatible with the XQD memory card form-factor.
  • Eye AF – Under development is an Eye AF function, which will automatically detect the subject’s eyes to make attaining critical focus on the eyes easier. It will allow users to capture photos in which focus has been clearly acquired on the subject’s eye, which is useful for portrait, event and street photography scenarios.
  • RAW Video Support – Nikon is currently developing a feature that works with the ATOMOS Ninja V to output video in RAW format, using the ProRes RAW codec.

Details, including the release date of new firmware updates, will be shared at a later date.

via Dpreview

Panasonic S1-S1R will ship in late March and feature High Resolution mode and HLG shooting

Panasonic has a CES event and talked a lot about the new S1-S1R cameras. But they still did nto share the full specs and pricing. Those are “rumored” to be unveield in late January. The new info we got today has been summarized by L-rumors.com:

1) They will be able to shoot in High Resolution mode. It takes 8 photos and merges them for better resolution in varying lighting conditions.
2) They will capture HLG photos
3) The cameras will start shipping out in late March

UPDATE: Here is the official press text:

Panasonic Announces Additional Key Functions for the New Full-frame Mirrorless Camera at CES 2019

Las Vegas, NV (January 7, 2019) – Following an announcement at Photokina 2018, Panasonic will unveil additional key features of the new LUMIX S full-frame mirrorless cameras at CES 2019. The LUMIX S full-frame mirrorless cameras and lenses will be available at the end of March 2019.*

A Whole New Style of Photo Expression

High Dynamic Range Still Photo – HLG Photo Mode

HLG Photo allows images to be shot with a wider dynamic range. By reproducing both glaring lights and dark shadows that are likely to be overexposed or underexposed, the Lumix S achieves rich, precise color expression as close as possible to visual memory. 43rumors

HLG Photos are produced as an HSP file. The user can play back these vibrant images on the latest Panasonic HLG-compliant 4KTV via HDMI cable connection or other HLG- compliant devices. It is also ideal for photographers’ photo presentations.

Stunning Details with a Realistic Sensation

High Resolution Mode

Taking advantage of the Body Image Stabilizer. (I.S.) mechanism, eight consecutive images are automatically shot while shifting the sensor. These eight images are synthesized into a single image by the new Venus Engine, which boasts high-speed signal processing. Precise details are faithfully reproduced to be saved as a beautiful, highly realistic image. This mode is ideal for shooting natural landscapes or fine art objects with delicate details.

Considering situations where moving subjects are included in the scene, sub options are available to suppress motion blur, so photographers can use this mode the same as shooting in a normal photo shooting mode.

*Availability date may vary depending on the sales area •Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Venus Optics announces the widest lens for DJI X7 cameras & Inspire 2 drones, Laowa 9mm f/2.8 DL Zero-D

Press text:

Venus Optics announce the widest lens for DJI X7 cameras & Inspire 2 drones, Laowa 9mm f/2.8 DL Zero-D
Featuring a 113° field of view, close-to-zero distortion & affordable pricing, Laowa 9mm f/2.8 DL Zero-D is a dream lens for DJI Inspire 2 pilots.

Anhui China, 3 Jan 2019 – Venus Optics, the camera lenses manufacturer who had previously launched a number of unique Laowa camera lenses, is proud to introduce the widest lens currently available for the DJI X7 cameras on Inspire 2 drones, Laowa 9mm f/2.8 Zero-D DL.
The new DL mount has the same specifications and optical performance as the existing Fuji X, Sony E and Canon EF-M mounts launched in 2018. All of them feature an ultra-wide 113° angle, cover Super35-sized sensor and have a close-to-zero distortion. The Laowa 9mm is significantly wider than the currently widest DL lens (i.e. 80°) in the market, allowing aerial cinematographers to capture more in limited distances. The ultra-fast f/2.8 lens also provide more flexibility to do night time aerial videography.
The lens is carefully designed to reduce the optical distortion to a close-to-zero level. It allows straight lines to be perfectly retained and saves videographers tremendous time in post-processing. Venus Optics is reputable in producing distortion-free lenses for multiple systems including the widest f/2 lens for full frame E-mount cameras (i.e. Laowa 15mm f/2 FE Zero-D).
The size and weight of the lens have also been compressed to the minimal in its class. It weighs only 210g (0.46 lbs) and 60mm (2.36 in) long. This compact and lightweight lens comprises of 15 elements in 10 groups with 2 pcs of aspherical elements and 3 pcs of Extra- low dispersion elements. This optical design successfully minimizes the distortion and chromatic aberrations to its lowest but at the same time, delivers a superb optical performance. A 49mm filter thread is also included for cinematographers to use with ND filters.

Pricing & Availability
The retail selling price of the Laowa 9mm f/2.8 Zero-D DL mount in US is USD 499/pc (ex- VAT). Pricing may vary in different countries.
The lens is now available to order from Venus Optics authorized resellers and official website (http://www.venuslens.net/) . The lens is now available to ship immediately.

Optical Structure

Supplementary Information
Sample Footage
https://youtu.be/juIW_cCGXM0
https://youtu.be/xcrx9CALWHY
https://youtu.be/Qmuh2i95erA
https://youtu.be/45rKL0yWRDU
https://youtu.be/d0omCiYLyEA

Angle of view comparison (vs DJI 16mm DL)
https://youtu.be/q6bMTnQjxSY

Product Shots / Sample Footage / Sample Images
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1y4U28KCdYv1WsHYryhmEdWzze0jvRkxV

Samsung plans to surpass the Sony sensor production

I don’t think Samsung will make APS-C and FF sensors any time soon. But what they are for sure is try to beat Sony in the overall sensor business. Digitimes reports:

With use of CMOS image sensors (CIS) extending from smartphone cameras to automotive cameras, Samsung has planned to expand its CIS production capacity to surpass Sony to become the globally largest supplier.

Thanks Barry!