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Fresh firmware for Tamron Seven of the manufacturer’s most popular optics now offer enhanced compatibility, autofocus and bug fixes
receive the same improvement to their AF algorithms. Fujifilm X Series owners with the 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 VC VXD can add a live stabilisation option when their camera is in continuous AF. Tamron says this is ideal for those that employ subject tracking while using back-button or half-press AF, as stabilisation remains active while the button is down. This functionality is also available to X Mount owners of the 17-70mm f/2.8 VC RXD. In both cases, firmware may be upgraded via a formatted memory card. Finally, users of the 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 VC HLD in Canon EF will get a bug fix if they update to firmware v3.0. This resolves the issue for EOS R7 and EOS R10 users who could find AF communication cut when turning the camera on and off. Further details of all upgrades – and how to apply them – are available on the website. Tamron’s UK distributor, Transcontinenta UK Ltd, announced that it’s now the exclusive distributor for Broncolor lighting in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Read more about Broncolor in our lighting guide on page 35 of this issue. tamron.eu broncolor.com
Tamron has released a raft of firmware upgrades to enhance functionality of some of its most popular lenses. Key improvements, which can be applied by the user, include compatibility with the recently announced Tamron Lens Utility Mobile app for Android and what are claimed to be ‘huge’ AF gains. Select Sony E, Fujifilm X and Canon EF mount lenses are those with firmware available. Owners of 20-40mm f/2.8 VXD, 50- 400mm f/4.5-6.3 VC VXD, 28-75mm f/2.8 VXD G2 and 35-150mm f/2-2.8 VXD optics in E-mount can use the USB-C port on their respective glass – and Tamron Lens Utility software on a computer – to add compatibility with the Android version of the Lens Utility Mobile app. This allows users to customise function and focusing characteristics to their own needs. Those that wield the E-mount 50- 400mm, however, may also boost the optic’s AF acquisition and tracking algorithms. Furthermore, the update also improves the accuracy of Sony’s eye tracking AF and adds an AF assist function to video recording for more precise control. Owners of the E-mount 150-500 f/5-6.7 VC VXD, meanwhile, can
Nikon’s line-up of Z series optics is set to welcome two new additions in the coming months, following confirmation from the company that a telephoto and wide-angle prime are in development. No timescale has been given for availability of the lenses – an 85mm mid-telephoto and 26mm wide-angle – but similar announcements have seen products officially launched in a matter of months. The Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.2 S looks set to be a hit with wedding, portrait and fashion photographers, thanks to its fast maximum aperture offering tight control over depth-of-field – and what is likely to be impressively smooth bokeh. It’ll be another addition to Nikon’s rapidly growing S-Line of optics, designed to deliver outstanding results with the latest optical technologies as well as offering cutting-edge features. The Nikkor Z 26mm f/2.8, meanwhile, could be less of a strain on the wallet. A slimline design suggests it will be one for travel and lifestyle photographers looking to find a lightweight option that doesn’t compromise image quality. Nikon’s own press information alluded to its budget-friendly aspirations by saying it would be Nikon confirms two prime lenses for its mirrorless system are currently in development Duo of Nikkor Z series lenses arriving soon
Sound investment Rode’s Videomicro II delivers pro-grade sound quality and a sleek design
Rode has released the Videomicro II, the follow-up to its best-selling on-camera shotgun microphone. The Videomicro II is a professional- grade condenser microphone that promises high sound quality. Thanks to a supercardioid polar pattern and Rode’s annular line tube technology, the mic captures audio in every
direction in order to help achieve full-bodied sound. The Videomicro II comes with a Helix shock mount that protects it from knocks, bumps and handling noise. Made from thermoplastic, the mount minimises vibrations while keeping the mic stable on-camera. Also included are Rode’s foam pop filter and furry windshields for improved noise reduction. With plug-and-play functionality as well as no batteries required, the Videomicro II is suited to beginners and experienced creators alike. The unit connects to either a camera or smartphone via 3.5mm TRS or TRRS, and even comes with a patch cable and splitter. It is compact and lightweight, with an all-metal body that weighs 39g, measuring 80mm long and 22mm in diameter. Rode’s Videomicro II is shipping worldwide at £83 (including VAT). rode.com
‘ideal for amateur photographers looking to take their cameras with them on the go. The prime lens is the perfect photography companion; ensuring shooters never miss an opportunity to capture beautiful imagery’. Pricing information is not yet available for either lens. Nikon also announced a new YouTube series entitled Nikon Sessions. Season 1 comprises six episodes featuring a range of Nikon photographers, educators and staff. Topics range from music, urban and street photography to news and portraiture, as well as the practical art of editing. Episodes release fortnightly – search for ‘Nikon Sessions’ on YouTube. nikon.co.uk
Issue 103 | Photography News 5
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