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Sigma updates 24-70mm f/2.8

making it suitable for video recording with consistent focus transitions. The lens’ AF is driven by Sigma’s High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) motor, which, according to Sigma, increases AF speed by more than three times when compared to the previous model. The 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II is smaller and lighter than its predecessor, weighing 745g, and features a dust- and splash-resistant structure, along with a water- and oil- repellent coating on the front element. The lens is now available to buy, priced at £1179. sigmauk.com

Sigma has updated its 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art lens, compatible with L-Mount and Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. It said this new version includes enhanced optical performance, faster AF and better usability for photographers and filmmakers with mirrorless systems. The lens features six FLD glass, two SLD glass and five aspherical lens elements. The constant f/2.8 aperture creates soft bokeh and pleasing background separation. A close focusing distance of 17cm achieves a maximum magnification of 1:2.7. Sigma told us the optical design also minimises focus breathing,

The EOS R1 is coming in 2024 Canon has officially announced the development of the EOS R1 – the first flagship model in the EOS R System – designed for sports, news and video production pros. We don’t have many details about the new camera, just that it’s a significant step up from the EOS R3. Central to the EOS R1’s advancements is the integration of a newly developed processor, the Digic Accelerator, with the existing Digic X processor. Canon said this combination will work in partnership with a new sensor to deliver rapid processing of large volumes of data, and will be perfectly complemented by improvements to AI-powered AF. This will be interesting for sports shooters since, aside from fast and accurate tracking, Canon claims it can identify and focus on players performing actions like shooting a ball to ensure critical focus on key moments. Canon is currently testing the EOS R1 in the field and, while no exact date has been set, the company told us the camera will be released at some point in 2024. Keep an eye on our website and socials for more news and product tests. canon.co.uk

Shoot Leica on iPhone Leica has introduced Leica Lux, a

Leica Classic, Leica Contemporary and Leica Black-and-White. There are automatic, manual and aperture-priority modes for users to manually adjust settings like exposure compensation, shutter speed and aperture (f/1.4 to f/8). The app is currently available for iPhone only under a freemium model. The free version gives access to the Automatic Photo Mode, Aperture Mode, an emulation of the Leica Summilux-M 28mm f/1.4 ASPH and five Leica Looks. At £6.99 per month, Leica Lux Pro gives more manual controls, Leica Looks and lens emulations. leica-camera.com

photography app for iPhone offering the ‘Leica look’ without the Leica price tag. The app employs Leica’s image processing engine – based on machine learning and computational photography – to reproduce specific lens qualities like distinctive bokeh effects. It also includes a feature called the Leica Lens Look, allowing users to simulate the characteristics of various Leica lenses, including the Summilux-M 28mm f/1.4 ASPH and the Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH. Plus, the app offers several gradations and film presets to replicate the brand’s cameras. These include Leica Standard,

Panasonic has announced the Lumix S9 – the smallest and lightest camera in the Lumix S series – weighing approximately 403g. A quick glance at its features reveals it has its targets fixed squarely at the content creator market. The camera boasts a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor – equivalent to the one used in the Lumix S5 II – combined with Panasonic’s latest image processing engine. This powers phase detection AF and image stabilisation, which Panasonic said offer excellent subject tracking and 6.5 stops of benefit. A standout feature of the Lumix S9 is its Real Time LUT function, accessible via a dedicated button on the camera body. This enables users to apply various colour styles directly in-camera and is complemented by the new Lumix Lab app, which allows users to create unique LUT profiles on their phone and transfer them onto the camera as custom settings. Video creators will appreciate the MP4 Lite recording format, optimised for smartphone. This format supports open gate recording in 4:2:0 10-bit at 30p/25p, and is intended to facilitate high-quality video capture. Its compact body and free-angle LCD add further appeal for video creators. Available in four colours: Jet Black, Crimson Red, Dark Olive and Classical Blue, the Lumix S9 is priced at £1499 (body only). panasonic.com Light entertainment from the Lumix S9

6 Photography News | Issue 116

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