Photography News 102 - Newsletter

It’s our final issue of 2022 and we’re going out with a bang, with a bumper magazine packed full of all the things you love. Our news section is the details of all the latest launches, plus we’re kicking off our annual awards, tempting you with Christmas gifts and helping you make better buying decisions with informative tests. We’ve picked out some feature highlights below, but for the complete picture, be sure to pick up a copy or read it online - for free! Have a great Christmas and New Year, we’ll see you again in 2023.

ISSUE 102 22 Nov-16 Jan 2023 photographynews.co.uk

Pg18 Amazing images /

Pg27 PN 2022 Awards /

Pg46 Fujifilm X-H2 / Highest-res APS-C model tested and rated

Now’s the time to vote for your favourite kit New cameras for all! Bumper slab of tasty tech unveiled by manufacturers, some featuring AI systems to deliver greater accuracy Competition winners sure to inspire you

THIS YEAR IS finishing with a bang, as a raft of camera brands announced exciting upgrades to existing mirrorless models. Full-frame fanatics will no doubt welcome the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and Sony A7R V, but while the two are united by a 35mm sensor, their individual modus operandi couldn’t be more different. The R6 Mark II is focused around speed, with its 24.2-megapixel sensor and Digic X processor capable of shooting at 40fps. The Sony, meanwhile, shoots at a more leisurely 10fps, but has a 61-megapixel sensor allied to the new Bionz XR processor. Perhaps the most interesting development in both models, however, is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to help deliver more robust autofocus performance. AI processing and deep learning are used to improve subject recognition for sharper shots. Fujifilm has stuck to its biennial upgrade of the X-T series with the unveiling of the X-T5. Like the Canon and Sony, the latest model also includes AI – here enhancing both autofocus and white-balance accuracy. Plus, it employs the same 40.2-megapixel sensor and X-Processor 5 image engine as the X-H2. The X-T5 also offers improved IBIS, yet is smaller and lighter than its predecessor. Finally, the OM System OM-5 follows a similar diminutive path, aimed at image makers who enjoy taking pictures as part of another outdoor hobby. It’s small and light, but still packs impressive IBIS and class-leading weather resistance. “A raft of camera brands announced exciting upgrades”

Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Sony A7R V

Fujifilm X-T5

OM System OM-5

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PN 2022 Awards: Time to vote! Get in on the action – pick your favourite products in our annual accolades

of a beautiful building rather than demolishing it and starting again. News, tests and inspiring images will all remain. The word search is still here, too – I didn’t want a mutiny on my hands. One thing we have started to do is post news almost daily on the website: photographynews.co.uk. As a printed title, it’s impossible to compete with online, so we won’t try. Instead, expect details about major launches in the magazine, with shorter articles on the site. I’d also like to hear more from camera clubs. Get in touch to tell us your news, competition results and upcoming events. Engaging with clubs is one of the key reasons this magazine was launched, so do be sure to email clubnews@ photographynews.co.uk if you’ve got something to share. Finally, I want PN to talk more to hybrid image makers who shoot both stills and video. Every camera launched these days boasts video functionality that can offer a new outlet for your endeavours. There won’t be swathes of video-related content, we remain rooted in stills, but it’s an expanding area of the industry – one no photographer should turn their back on. So that’s the plan – I hope you’re on board. Enjoy the issue!

EDITOR’S LETTER ROGER PAYNE

3 OCTOBER 1990 is a day I’ll never forget. On that day, I filled up my red Peugeot 205 – paying £1.65 a gallon, kids – and drove from Nottingham to Peterborough to start my first day as a writer on Photo Answers magazine. Among the people I met was a certain Will Cheung, then editor of Practical Photography , and he’s been omnipresent in my career ever since. We’ve worked together on numerous magazines with multiple publishers and I have a lot to thank him for. Therefore, it’s with a degree of trepidation that I step into his sizeable shoes as the new editor of Photography News . Will has not left the magazine altogether. He will continue as a contributor reviewing the latest kit, so we’ll all continue to enjoy his insight and viewpoints. What does this mean for PN ? Rest assured, I have no intention of making sweeping changes to a winning recipe. I hope you’ll see my tenure more as a redecoration Roger Payne

THIS ISSUE SEES the launch of the Photography News 2022 Awards and we need your votes! We’ve spent the last few weeks creating a shortlist of the best products across a broad range of categories – now it’s over to you to tell us which ones should win. Our yearly awards have become a mainstay of the photo industry. All the companies with nominated products know the PN readership is made up of discerning image makers, so they truly value your judgement. Many past winners proudly display

trophies at their respective HQs, underlining the lustre victory holds. Voting is simple. See all the nominated products in our feature starting on page 27, then head to our website – photographynews.co.uk – and follow the link. You’ll be guided to a survey, where you can cast your

vote in each class. If you don’t want to vote on every category that’s fine, just skip to those you do. Voting closes 4 January 2023, so you can consider your choices while you’re eating Christmas dinner! The full list of winners will be announced in issue 104, available 14 February.

“Consider your choices while you’re eating Christmas dinner!”

@photonewsPN @photonewsPN

@photonewsPN

What’s inside 03 News It’s been a bumper few weeks for new products. Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, OM Digital Solutions and Nikon have all unveiled cameras, plus we’ve had lenses and accessories, too! Read all about them in our jam-packed news section

39 Christmas gift guide Presents any photographer would ho-ho-hope to get under the tree on Christmas Day 46 Big test: Fujifilm X-H2 We wait all this time for a new X-H camera, then two come along in a matter of months! Will Cheung takes a look at Fujifilm’s latest model, with the highest-resolution APS-C sensor yet

17 Samsung word search and Vanguard competition A 256GB Samsung Pro Plus microSD card and Vanguard VEO accessory kit are up for grabs this issue. Get involved!

53 Mini test: Sony FX30 It’s a hybrid camera, but not as you know it. Sony’s fresh offering is cine-centric, which could appeal if you want to create videos

18 Prize-winning inspiration Make 2023 the year you enter a photo contest. We display victors from the world’s premier comps to motivate you 27 The Photography News 2022 Awards Time to vote for your favourite photo and video equipment in our annual extravaganza. You’ve got until 4 January 2023 – start picking!

first and stills second 57 First tests l Datacolor Spyder Checkr Photo l Nikon Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S l Fujifilm XF56mm f/1.2 R WR l Vanguard VEO BIB range

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News Canon’s triple whammy

A new EOS mirrorless body, impressive RF telephoto lens and high-speed flash mark a bumper month for Canon

from the EOS R3, which uses HDR technology to give a display like that of a DSLR. The high-res, 3.69m dot EVF, meanwhile, refreshes at 120fps. Battery life has also been improved, even though the camera houses the same LP-E6 battery as the previous model. Shooting times have been extended by around 50% when using the LCD. It’s the only camera in its class that captures 4K/60p UHD with simultaneous Dual Pixel CMOS AF II focusing. All 4K footage is created by oversampling the sensor’s 6K output. For filmmakers demanding higher performance, there’s 6K Raw output via the HDMI port. The Mark II also produces slow-motion footage with AF support, recording Full HD at up to 180fps. Existing EOS and EOS R System users will be on familiar turf, with similar navigation and user-friendly ergonomics. If you tend to shoot outdoors and in adverse climates, fear not! The EOS R6 Mark II comes with a sturdy body featuring a weather-resistant build. The new Canon goes on sale at the end of this month, priced at £2779 body only, £3129 with the 24-105mm STM lens, or £3999 with the 24- 105mm f/4 lens. canon.co.uk

NEW FROM CANON, the EOS R6 Mark II is claimed to be the fastest full-frame camera released to date. Featuring a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, it includes the same Digic X processor as its predecessor, but has a faster readout speed, meaning it can now shoot at up to 40 frames per second. The autofocus system, taken from the range-topping R3, operates in light levels down to -6.5EV and now includes more tracking options. It employs AI-based deep-learning technology to deliver more accurate performance. Cats, dogs, aircraft, trains and horses (including, Canon was keen to add, zebras) have been added to subject detection options, and it can pick up subjects that leave and re-enter the frame. That headline 40fps figure is with the electronic shutter, but does also include AF and AE on every frame. Using the mechanical shutter reduces the rate to 12fps. A Raw burst mode offers a half-second pre-shooting feature, rolling continuously at 30fps for as many as 191 frames. Up to eight stops of image stabilisation delivers shake-free results, while the extended ISO range goes to 204,800. The native range is 100-102,400. The Mark II has inherited the optical viewfinder assist feature

LIGHTNING FAST Canon claims the R6 II is the fastest full-frame camera yet “The R6 II is the only camera in its class that shoots 4K/60p with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II focusing”

Coming soon… Canon also confirmed a new fast- aperture telephoto and on-camera flash, set to arrive in December and February respectively. The RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM is ideal for shooting low-light portraits, thanks to its f/1.8 aperture and a built-in optical image stabiliser good for up to 5.5 stops of compensation. It features a weather-resistant design and nine- blade aperture which, in combination with its 135mm focal length, makes for impressive bokeh – and has two customisable function buttons. Canon claims this new lens offers a better optical performance than the L-series 135mm f/1.2 optic. You’ll have to pay £2449 to find out if that’s true. The Speedlite EL-5 is based on the EL-1 and slots into the range between that and the 430EX. With a GN of 60 and fast recycling time, it covers focal lengths from 24-200mm, features an LED modelling lamp and has a weather-sealed design. It uses Canon’s multi-function shoe, so doesn’t fit to all bodies, but works wirelessly with some units – and will retail for £499.

SHOT IN THE DARK The RF 135mm f/1.8L (left) and Speedlite EL-5 (above) are exciting arrivals

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Fujifilm puts photography first with launch of X-T5 After the video-focused X-H2S and hybrid X-H2 took the pro market by storm, the latest X Series addition aims to be a hit for stills photographers

“The X-T5 bucks the trend, with the camera being physically smaller and 50g lighter than its predecessor” users looking to upgrade, as well as potential converts to the system. These include a seven-stop in-body image stabilisation system, 19 Film Simulation modes, 160-megapixel Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode and three-axis, tiltable three-inch LCD screen with 1.84 million dots. Further improvements over the X-T4 include a higher magnification on the EVF (up from 0.77x to 0.8x), a fastest top electronic shutter speed of 1/180,000sec and video resolution up to 6.2K/30p. The 8K functionality from the same sensor and processor on the X-H2 isn’t possible on the X-T5 due to its lack of heat dissipation. Battery performance has also been improved, with 740 frames now possible from the NP-W235 cell in economy mode; that’s 140 more than the X-T4. Interestingly, Fujifilm confirmed there won’t be a compatible vertical battery grip, which improves handling in portrait orientation and accepts extra batteries to extend shooting. Instead, a metal handgrip will be available.

FUJIFILM HAS UNVEILED the X-T5, the fifth iteration of its ever- popular X-T line. With the recently announced X-H models catering more for professionals, the company hopes the X-T5 will find favour with enthusiasts, who will appreciate its traditional, dial-based design. Available now, the new model houses the same 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor from the X-H2 with the X-Processor 5 imaging engine, but doesn’t quite match the performance of its more expensive stablemate (see comparison panel). However, the new model does offer a welcome range of features, sure to make it a hit both with existing

Bolstering its close-focusing lens range, Fujifilm has released the XF30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro. At under 70mm and less than 200g, this optic is the lightest of the company’s three macro XF lenses. It joins the XF60mm f/2.4 R Macro and XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro. With a 46mm focal length equivalent, the XF30mm doesn’t feature optical image stabilisation but offers 1:1 life-size macro and focuses down to 10cm – 1cm from the front lens element. Featuring a design in keeping with the f/2 compact prime line- up, it has a rapid AF system with a near-silent linear motor and inner focusing, plus nine-bladed aperture for smooth bokeh. The XF30mm is available now for £599. XF30mm becomes third XF macro lens

STEADY ON There’s new IBIS and a 160-megapixel pixel shift shooting mode

and tilting rear screen. Its weather- resistant body also remains and the longevity of the shutter has been improved to 500,000 actuations. The X-T5 is available body only or in a kit with the XF18-55mm or XF16- 80mm lenses. Prices are £1699, £2049 and £2149 respectively. fujifilm-x.com

Updated every two years, the X-T range had steadily gained size and weight from the original model launched in 2014. The X-T5 bucks this trend, with the camera being physically smaller and 50g lighter than its predecessor – impressive when you consider the extra bulk typically created by an IBIS system

LIGHT TOUCH The X-T5 packs more features into a smaller, lighter body

HOW DOES THE X-T5 COMPARE?

X-T5

X-H2

X-T4

SENSOR

X-Trans CMOS 5 HR

X-Trans CMOS 4

PROCESSOR

X-Processor 5

X-Processor 4

RESOLUTION

40.2 megapixels

26.1 megapixels

MAX SHUTTER SPEED

1/180,000sec

1/32,000sec

NUMBER OF CONTINUOUS FRAMES

119 JPEG, 19 Raw

1000+ JPEG, 400 Raw

110 JPEG, 35 Raw

IBIS

7 stops

6.5 stops

EVF

0.8x, 3.69m dots, 100fps

0.8x, 5.76m dots, 120fps

0.75x, 3.69m dots, 100fps

LCD

3-inch, 1.84m dots, 3-axis tiltable

3-inch, 1.62m dots, vari-angle

BATTERY LIFE

740 frames

680 frames

600 frames

MEDIA

2x UHS-II

1x CFexpress, 1x UHS-II

2x UHS-II

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Featherweight OM-5 has lift-off OM System targets photographers and videographers on the move with diminutive body weighing just 366g

OM DIGITAL SOLUTIONS has introduced the OM-5, a compact, lightweight Micro Four Thirds model for photographers and videographers keen to document all their outdoor adventures. The release marks one year of OM System, which celebrated its birthday on 27 October. Made for the minimalist traveller, the camera features a five-axis image stabilisation system, offering up to 7.5 steps of compensation (with a Sync- IS lens), to provide more freedom in low light. Standard resolution from the Live MOS sensor is 20 megapixels, but can be increased to 50 megapixels working handheld or 80 megapixels on a tripod, thanks to the high res shot options. The greatly improved TruePic IX processor offers added functionality, including LiveND, which slows shutter speeds by up to four stops, negating the need to carry neutral- density filters. The OM-5 comes with improved AF tracking and enhanced face and eye detection. Also added is the new Starry Sky AF option, which makes focusing on the night sky easier, plus live composite and live bulb modes allow you to watch while your long exposures come to life. Access to the B mode is easier as it has been added to the top-plate command dial. The Pro Capture option, meanwhile, continuously buffers Raw files at up to 30fps, retaining the previous 14

TRAVELLING LIGHT With its diminutive body and excellent stabilisation, the OM-5 is perfect for the great outdoors

“Pro Capture continuously buffers Raw files at up to 30fps, allowing you to pick the perfect shot”

frames when the shutter is pressed. These can be recalled and scrolled through to pick the perfect shot. Meant for any condition, the OM-5’s IP53 weather-resistant build is claimed to be class-leading and promises to keep you creating, being splash, dust and freeze proof. A supersonic wave filter (SSWF) instantly shakes dust from the sensor for cleaner images. The OM-5 can shoot video in 4K/30p and at up to 120p in Full HD. Recording time is unlimited, plus the

camera has an OM-Log400 mode, using a flat profile that provides more versatility for grading in post. It can also shoot social-media-ready vertical video, doubles as a webcam, and supports USB-C charging.

The camera is available from late November for £1199 body only or £1499 in a kit with the 12-45mm f/4 Pro lens. Order before 30 November for a free five-year extended warranty. omsystem.com

WHATEVER THE WEATHER The OM-5 has an IP53 weather-resistant build

Leica brings back M6 – and updates SL2 With analogue photography back in vogue, Leica has re-

aramid fibre coating, which increases grip. The all-metal body is coated in a scratch-resistant dark green paint. The SL2-S Reporter is also available now for £4700. leica-camera.com

released the M6, which was taken off sale in 2002. The 2022 M6 features a rangefinder with 0.72x magnification, battery warning indicator and light meter showing correct exposure with a red dot – the original used two arrows. Its body is made from solid brass and all optical surfaces are coated, making the M6 tougher and less sensitive to stray light. Almost all features, including rewind crank and red Leitz logo, are preserved. Stefan Daniel, Leica’s executive VP technology and operations, said: “Since 1984, countless iconic pictures have been taken with the M6; it was part of the product range for over 18 years and a fascinating camera with a high utility value.” The M6 is available now for £4500. Also new is the SL2-S Reporter, designed for photo and video journalists thanks to its robust design. It uses a 24-megapixel CMOS-BSI sensor, the latest Maestro III processor and has a shock-, dust- and water-resistant

EXTRA, EXTRA The SL2-S Reporter is designed specifically for working photo journalists

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Sony raises its full-frame game The latest in its full-frame mirrorless line, the new Alpha 7R V features innovative AI tech and a new processor

Billingham adds new colour combination

also come in sage and black, should you choose to match. The three- layer fibrenyte material and genuine tanned leather are weather resistant. All camera bags are padded for the ultimate protection. billingham.co.uk

Billingham has unveiled a new colour mix – sage fibrenyte and black leather – for its camera bag collection. Ten bags, including the Hadley, Eventer and Avea, will offer the fresh colour; prices remain the same. End pockets are optional, but

Elinchrom Five is alive! Swiss company Elinchrom has released a new battery-powered Active Cooling, the units learn users’ typical shooting speeds and adjust accordingly to avoid overheating. For those who’ve used the

500Ws monolight – the Five. Designed with an unconcealed flash tube and compatible with all Elinchrom accessories, the Five delivers a large, even light spread – both in the studio and on location. The light supports active charging, letting users top up the battery with a USB-C cable while shooting. When unplugged and fully charged, the Five can take 450 full-power flashes, plus it features a 26W LED modelling light with an output of 4000 lumens and adjustable colour temperature from 2700 to 6500K. With Smart Pro-

OUTGOING The A7R V features improved moisture resistance

Elinchrom ELC 125/500, the Five has a familiar interface. Its intuitive menu encourages the simplest studio session, while its comfort grip makes for smooth directional changes. It has built-in Bluetooth, allowing users to control settings via the Elinchrom Studio app. The Elinchrom Five is available now for £1619 for a single-head kit, or £3219 for a dual kit with case. theflashcentre.com

SONY HAS ANNOUNCED the Alpha 7R V, a brand-new full-frame E-mount mirrorless camera. It’s the first of the 7R series to feature the latest Bionz XR image processor, eight-step image stabilisation and a four-axis multi-angle monitor – as well as autofocusing with AI. The back-side illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor offers 61-megapixel stills – in JPEG, HEIF or Raw format – as well as 8K video capture and up to 10fps continuous shooting, with AF and AE tracking. The Bionz XR processor also provides native ISO settings from 100 to 32,000 for both stills and video, plus 15 stops of dynamic range for stills. Improved image stabilisation and the multi-angle LCD monitor give users flexibility while shooting, especially when recording video. The stabilisation system has been re-engineered to optimise results and, in addition to its eight steps of compensation, uses algorithms to preserve image quality down to the single-pixel level. Pixel Shift Multi Shooting is also available, with the A7R V compositing 16 images to create 240.8-megapixel files. The camera’s autofocus incorporates Sony’s innovative AI technology, improving accuracy with human pose estimation and

iterative learning. Subject recognition now extends to various non-human subjects, including both vehicles and insects. As with many other Sony models, the A7R V is heavy with video spec – 8K capture is offered at a cinematic 24/25p, while 4K is oversampled from 6.2K without any binning, and 10-bit 4:2:2 recording is on top. The A7R V boasts a strong, sustainable build. Heat dissipation and dust and moisture resistance have all been improved to allow for long sessions in inclement conditions, and PCK-LG3 Screen Protect Glass Sheet compatibility ensures even more protection. Its chassis is made from a magnesium alloy, but is manufactured in part from recyclable plastics. The A7R V is available to order now for £4000. sony.co.uk

SMART CAM State-of-the-art image processing uses AI for great results

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News Tamron adds Sony and Fujifilm optics Standard and telezoom options give more choice to mirrorless users

“A 65° zoom arc, along with Tamron’s VXD, allows for seamless switching between moving subjects while staying quiet”

TAMRON HAS RELEASED the 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD, an ultra-telephoto zoom for Fujifilm’s X Mount. The lens features an equivalent focal length range of 225-750mm, Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus and VC (Vibration Compensation), along with a close focusing distance of 0.6m. The 150-500mm f/5-6.7 suits close- and long-range shooting alike, and provides a number of other benefits. It’s convenient to carry, boasting a compact length of 209.9mm at 150mm zoom and 284.9mm when fully extended, with a maximum diameter of 93mm. The 0.6m close focusing distance at the 150mm end and 1.8m at the 500mm end both allow for close encounters, while the VXD linear motor reduces noise and avoids disruption in quiet environments. Tamron claims the lens offers fast, precise focusing to keep up with moving subjects, plus VC reduces blur and offers three modes: standard, panning and framing priority. The optic includes 25 elements in 16 groups, including extra-low and low-dispersion elements for aberration control. It’s now on sale for £1399.99.

Between now and 8 January 2023, Tamron is offering savings of up to £100 on seven of its lenses for Sony FE, Canon EF, Nikon F and Fujifilm X Mount cameras. With focal lengths ranging from 17mm to 600mm, the lenses include wide, standard, telephoto and ultra-telephoto zooms, as well as two superzooms. Get £80 off the 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD (Sony FE, Fujifilm X), 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD (Sony FE, Fujifilm X) and 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (Sony FE); or £100 off the 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Sony FE), 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD (Sony FE), 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD (Sony FE) and 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Canon EF, Nikon F). Simply make a purchase at participating dealers and the discount will be applied. tamron.eu

Also released is the 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD, an ultra-wide to standard zoom lens for Sony E-mount. Compact and lightweight, at 86.5mm long and weighing 365g, its size and portability make it ideal for everyday use, whether photography or videography. With a close focusing distance of only 17cm, it’s well-suited to vlogging, portraiture and nature photography. As an ultra-wide lens, it’s also ideal for landscape, travel and street shooting. The 20-40mm features 12 elements – including four low-dispersion, two glass-moulded aspherical, and one hybrid aspherical – in 11 groups. The f/2.8 aperture produces soft yet pronounced bokeh, while a 65° zoom arc combined with Tamron’s VXD allows for seamless switching between moving subjects while staying quiet. It’s on sale now, for £879.99.

First X Mount zoom for Sigma Sigma has launched the 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN C lens, its first zoom compatible with Fujifilm’s X Mount cameras. The lens has a compact, portable design, measuring just under 77mm in length and weighing 285g – the lightest in its class. Good for photographers on the go, the 18-50mm has a close-focusing distance of 12.1cm with an equivalent focal range of 27 to 75mm, making it suitable for close-ups and wide-angle shots. The 18-50mm is the fourth Sigma optic for the X Series, joining the 16mm, 30mm and 56mm primes. It’s claimed to offer high-speed autofocusing, while the constant aperture of f/2.8 is a clear benefit when shooting handheld in low light. It uses an aluminium internal structure, with a thermally stable composite (TSC) outer – the two materials have a similar thermal expansion rate, helping the lens to deliver consistent results as temperatures change. The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN C lens will be available from 2 December 2022 for £429.99. sigma-imaging-uk.com

HARD WORKER A zoom lens with macro capability, you could easily keep this on your camera

FAR REACHING The 150-500mm is ideal for sport or wildlife shooting (above)

Nikon goes long with Z 600mm Nikon has released the Nikkor Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S, a super-telephoto prime for its Z mount mirrorless cameras. Designed for professional sports and wildlife photographers, the lens contains a built-in 1.4x teleconverter and Nikon’s Silky Swift autofocus system. customisable, allowing users to assign functions to the Fn, focus and silent control rings. Shortcuts can be created by saving focus distances to the memory-set buttons.

Even in inclement conditions, you can be confident this lens will hold up, as a weather-resistant design and fluorine coating on the front and rear elements repel both dust and moisture. The Z 600mm costs £15,499 and is on sale now. nikon.co.uk

Vibration reduction helps stifle shake with up to five stops of compensation. When mounted on a Z series camera and used with Synchro VR, this increases to 5.5 stops. Plus, it’s

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Sleek new Black Edition for retro Nikon Z fc

British photography finds a new home The Centre for British Photography will open in January 2023 to showcase the diversity of image making in the country

FM2-inspired mirrorless model with classy black coat joined by vintage 40mm prime

TWO PRODUCTS HAVE been added to Nikon’s mirrorless line-up: the Z fc Black Edition camera and Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 (SE) lens. Inspired by the iconic FM2 film camera, the Black Edition takes on board customer feedback – and is available exclusively on the Nikon Store. The Z fc retains Nikon’s retro features; the top-plate control dials, classic Nikon logo on the pentaprism and circular viewfinder all mimic that of the company’s SLRs in the eighties – plus the shutter release actually clicks during use. Internally, however, it’s a thoroughly modern camera with a 20.9-megapixel DX-format sensor, video capture at up to 4K/30p, advanced AF

OLD SCHOOL

Classic style meets some newfangled features

settings via buttons in the MC-N10. It covers functionality normally controlled by the camera’s rear buttons and settings assigned to the camera dials or Fn buttons. For versatility, an Arri standard rosette fitting allows for quick changes in position, and the grip’s click-free dials keep things quiet on-set. The lightweight body weighs 310g with two AA batteries inserted, while extended shoots are possible with 12-hour operation time. The grip retails for £439. nikon.co.uk “The Z fc retains retro features of the company’s eighties SLRs – however, it’s a thoroughly modern camera”

with face detection and a vari-angle touchscreen monitor. The ideal pairing with the Black Edition is the Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 (SE). Its maximum aperture of f/2 allows you to make the most of available light and creates full-bodied bokeh for pleasing results. Its 40mm focal length – increasing to 60mm on DX-format cameras – is perfect for general use and offers a close-focusing distance of just 0.29m. According to Nikon, the 40mm focuses silently, rapidly and with minimal breathing to support video recording. The Nikon Z fc Black Edition is available now for £899 (body only) as well as being bundled with a variety of lenses in kit form. The Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 (SE) costs £309 and starts shipping in January 2023. Also new from Nikon is the MC-N10 Remote Grip, which gives videographers more control over their mirrorless cameras. The latest accessory suits a variety of set- ups and operates at the heart of a video rig. It’s compatible with the Z 9, Z 7II and Z 6II. Whether recording solo or as part of a crew, users can control all main video

Stationed at 49 Jermyn Street in London (SW1Y 6LX), the Centre for British Photography will build on the world-renowned Hyman Collection and work of the Hyman Foundation. Spanning three floors, exhibitions will display the diversity of British photography. Looking to inspire, the centre is free to visit all year round and will offer events, talks, a shop, an archive and a library alongside the main attractions. James and Claire Hyman began the collection in 1996, with works from British photographers and immigrants taken from 1900 to the present day, all epitomising life in the UK. Self-generated shows and those led by independent curators will appear throughout the year. The Hyman Collection – now a registered charity – includes over 3000 significant works by more than 100 artists. Until now, it was only an online resource, but now regional museums, galleries and photography collectives will be invited to use the new space. James Hyman, founding director, promises to give British photography more exposure and support with ‘a hub that increases national and international status’, while deputy director Tracy Marshall-Grant spotlights the inclusivity at the heart of the foundation. The collection finds balance in the number of works it holds by men and women. ‘Through commissions, grants, exhibitions, acquisitions and sales’, she explains, the centre will support British photographers. Two major events will open the centre – a self- portrait show co-curated by the campaign group Fast Forward : Women in Photography, and The English at Home , a collection of over 150 images illustrating the domestic interiors of the UK. Four ‘In Focus’ displays will spotlight specific bodies of work, while two commissions by the Hyman Foundation will appear. Want to get involved? A print sale is running until 19 December with funds going towards the centre and the Hyman Foundation’s support efforts. You can follow the Centre for British Photography on Instagram at @centre_for_british_photography. britishphotography.org

GET A GRIP The Nikon MC-N10 Remote Grip grants greater command over your mirrorless Nanlite announces

bicolour FS-60B

Nanlite has launched the bicolour FS-60B – a compact yet powerful LED studio light. Suitable for both beginners and more advanced users, the FS-60B offers features from more advanced products at an entry-level price. A simple design – just two knobs that adjust colour temperature (from 2700-6500K) and brightness – encourages users to sample different looks. It includes 12 built-in effects and two output modes: maximum and constant. Measuring just 247x134x87mm and weighing 0.85kg, the FS-60B is ideal for shooting in tight spaces. While it requires an AC outlet, it’s easy to use – once plugged in, just power on and get started. nanlite.co.uk

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WhiteWall

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Think outside the box Immortalise your

memories with four fabulous gifts from WhiteWall

PUT A PERSONAL touch on a Christmas present and share your favourite photos with family and friends. WhiteWall lets you display images in inventive and stylish ways – on walls, desks, countertops or coffee tables. The ArtBox Gift Edition and Acrylic Photo Block give your photos a dynamic, three-dimensional feel, while the Coffee Table Book lets you display your best work all at once. A multi- year TIPA best photo lab winner with over 100 other accolades, WhiteWall is an obvious nominee for this year’s Photography News Awards. In addition to the range shown here, WhiteWall offers even more gift ideas! For example, you can have your work made into a metal, canvas, or giclée print, get a direct print on wood and forex, or create a multi- piece picture. The company provides exceptional service, providing advice over the phone or in-store. All photo products are shipped in secure packaging to prevent damage; WhiteWall’s satisfaction guarantee and five-year warranty additionally ensure you’re left feeling happy .

Coffee Table Book | from £37.95 Create your own photo book for yourself or someone special. Tell a story, print their portfolio – the options are endless and incredibly customisable. Choose from five formats, including portrait, landscape or square, and inkjet or photographic printing on six types of paper. Decide how to upload images, whether directly on your browser, by downloading software or submitting a PDF. WhiteWall also offers a sample set, so you can see how the Coffee Table Book looks before purchasing the final product. With no logos or barcodes, your book will look elegant and professionally made.

WhiteWall Acrylic Photo Block in premium quality | from £22.95 The exceptionally strong Acrylic Photo Block gives images maximum attention, simply and everywhere. Glossy acrylic ensures spectacular colours, enhancing the depth effect of the motif. Laminated behind 25mm-thick acrylic, images are printed on premium paper – and thanks to crystal-clear polished edges, a charming mirror optic is created. As a design object, it stands securely and all by itself without additional support. The WhiteWall Acrylic Photo Block can be ordered in various sizes in an exclusive anthracite-coloured gift box, including greeting card.

WhiteWall Vouchers from £25

Can’t decide what to buy, or scrambling at the last minute? Go with a WhiteWall gift certificate – eligible on all products. Order by post and give in person or send in an instant via email. Let your loved ones pick and choose between prints, books, calendars and more; WhiteWall gift certificates are guaranteed to please.

Love what WhiteWall has to offer? Vote for it in the 2022 Photography News Awards. For more information, visit whitewall.com

WhiteWall ArtBox Gift Edition | from £29.95 Framing your images with solid wood, WhiteWall’s ArtBox Gift Edition offers either glossy or matte finish, covered by acrylic glass. It’s available in six colours and two shapes (square or rectangular) to complement any photo. The ArtBox stands and hangs, so you can decorate any room in the house. Plus, it comes in an elegant gift box, making wrapping that much easier, and includes a complimentary greeting card.

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News

A Samsung memory card! WIN!

EBYNOSZOGMX VPCDLTWTVWY I H G R C R O O P I S TOVOHULHTLD STYNROFPJDR E O W E I L K E S L A FBLDSORLS I W FOYZTCOEEFA EOOYMMWTL EW NKMRALGRRMF O C S O S I N E O Q D HAYSJFOPRXO P N S S F I K U R P R O O T E L J N S I E C RNECAUAZMMA CNMCSFYEYEM I TOAHUPRLZZ MHJPRESENTS With the need for superfast, high-capacity memory greater than ever, the Samsung 256GB Pro Plus microSD card could be just the ticket – and here’s your chance to win one. Boasting up to 160MB/s read and 120MB/s write speeds, the card is ideal for expanded mobile device storage and capturing quality photos or 4K UHD video. Complete the word search below, and you’ll find one word in the list that’s not in the grid. Email us on puzzle@photographynews.co.uk with that word in the subject box by 16 January 2023 and the winner will be drawn at random from all the correct entries received. Only entries from UK residents will be accepted. Linda Kirkhope is our winner from PN issue 101. She correctly identified the missing word as ‘picnic’. samsung.com/uk/memory-cards

WORTH £200!

LOOK, NO HANDS! Enjoy hands-free use of your phone with this holder

Win a Vanguard VEO CP-65 accessory kit Release your inner vlogger with this high-quality accessory set – perfect for recording as you shoot

that rotates through 360° and a coldshoe to fit an accessory, such as a microphone or small LED light. Its Arca-compatible base fits directly on to suitable tripods. We have a Vanguard kit to give away to one lucky Photography News reader. For a chance to win, go to our site – photographynews.co.uk – and follow the link on the home page. We need your details and the answer to the following: What does the VEO CP-65 clamp weigh? A) 1.6g B) 160g C) 1.6kg Close date for entries is 17 January 2023. The winner will be announced in issue 104 of Photography News . Good luck! vanguardworld.co.uk

TURN YOUR TRIPOD into a mobile recording studio with a Vanguard VEO CP-65 accessory kit. Made of CNC-machined solid aluminium, the solution comprises a 65mm clamp, tripod support arm and smartphone holder, making it simple to set up and control your favourite app, or talk to camera while you’re taking photos. The VEO CP-65 clamp fits to any object up to 65mm in diameter and has a moulded rubber inner grip for secure hold. With three threaded holes to attach the tripod support arms, it has a maximum load capacity of 2.5kg, yet weighs only 160g. The arm features a serrated steel elbow joint and ball joints at either end for maximum flexibility, folding from 167mm out to 290mm. Smartphones are held in place with the VEO SPH smartphone holder, which accepts any device up to 90mm wide. It features a ball joint

A wealth of winners The following readers struck gold in recent PN comps

PN 100 Mega Giveaway Rode VideoMic GO II – Andy Kemp Datacolor SpyderX colour profiling device – John McKinnon Kase Double Graduated 100mm filters – Mike Steward Polaroid Go white camera – Sandra Bushell Epson EcoTank ET-2850 printer – Patrick Duriez Sennheiser MKE 400 mic – Clive Handscombe Karl Taylor Education one-year subscription – John Collier Benro Induro Hydra 2 waterproof tripod – Tony Byram Tenba DNA 13 DSLR Messenger Bag – Steve McKie Nanlite FS-300 AC LED Monolight – Marie Oldham

Shimoda Explore V2 25 Starter Kit – Zoe Spinner Atomos Ninja V monitor-recorder – Leigh Maher Samyang AF 24-70mm f/2.8 FE zoom lens – Sophie Newnham Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 zoom lens – Tony Jones

ACCESSORY AWARDS CANON CHRISTMAS COLOUR

DRONE FESTIVE FLASH FUJIFILM MACRO

MICROPHONE MIRRORLESS OM SYSTEM PANORAMA PHOTO BOOK

PRESENTS SONY SUPER TELEPHOTO WILDLIFE WORKFLOW

PN 100 Vanguard £200 vouchers Paul Norris Shane Hutchings

Lisa Heywood Victoria Collins Susanne Wilward

PN 101 Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S tripod Gaynor Banks

If you do not want to receive any marketing information from Bright Publishing or our partners, please type NO INFO in your email entry.

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Competitions

Prize-winning inspiration a pro camera to participate, although a keen compositional eye and passion for photography remain paramount. Put off by entry fees? Some other benefits, including recognition from renowned organisations.

Winners for the year’s biggest photography contests have been unveiled. Get inspired – and get involved in 2023! Words by Katie Kasperson and Samara Husbands

THIS YEAR, WE’VE witnessed some stunning successful images from the Landscape, Wildlife, Weather and Bird Photographer of the Year, the World Sports Photography Awards, and the Epson International Pano Awards. Winners come from all ages, stages and locations across the world. The inclusion of mobile categories shows that you don’t need

Judges are generally looking for two things: photographic skill and powerful storytelling. Make 2023 your year to enter one of the major competitions – what’s the worst that could happen? In the meantime, check out this selection of victorious images from 2022.

contests are free, while others start at just £6. Getting stuck in gives you the chance to pit your skills against fellow photographers and share your work on a global platform. Winners receive a prize (usually cash), plus

Landscape Photographer of the Year

In its 15th year, LPOTY has produced incredible visuals of our nation’s great vistas. With entries from up and down the country, the contest inspires engagement with the British landscape through photography. The winner takes home a cool £10k prize.

HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date TBA

› 2022 entry costs Under 19: free Adult: £9.99 (single image) up to

£34.99 (20 images) › Website lpoty.co.uk

GREEN AND PLEASANT Submitted photos must have been taken in the UK in the last five years. Categories include urban life, coast, black & white, landscapes at night, historic Britain and more – all with separately judged youth categories

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Competitions

Bird Photographer of the Year

With over 20,000 images submitted from the world over, the BPOTY competition brings in the very best images of our feathery friends. While the winner takes home a £5k grand prize, engagement and conservation sits at its heart, with multiple youth categories and funding going out to wildlife projects.

HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date 11 December 2022 › 2022 entry costs Under 18: free Adult: £6 (single image) up to £60 (50 images) › Website birdpoty.com

BIRDS OF A FEATHER This global competition is open to photographers of all ages, with categories now including video and portfolio submissions

World Sports Photography Awards

As the only global award for sports photography, competition is fierce. Welcoming submissions from all nations, images tell stories of emotion, passion, athleticism and sacrifice at the heart of the sporting world, transcending linguistic, cultural and physical borders.

HAVE A GO! › Open to Professionals and semi-professionals › 2023 closing date TBA › 2022 entry costs Under 18: free Adult: £30 up to £35 from 1 December › Website worldsports photographyawards.com

BE A GOOD SPORT The World Sports Photography Awards accept entries from both professional and semi-professional photographers, with categories covering a range of disciplines

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Competitions Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Developed by the Natural History Museum, the Wildlife POTY features visual marvels from our planet’s diverse climates. As thousands of submissions flood in throughout the year with varying styles, subject matters, stories and compositions, judges have a mammoth task on their hands for the 59th instalment. HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date 8 December 2022 › 2022 entry costs Under 18: free Adult: £30 (£35 from 1 December) › Website nhm.ac.uk/wpy

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE The competition is judged by a panel of expert wildlife photographers

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Zoner Photo Studio

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Get in the Zoner! Just updated, Zoner Photo Studio is a great way to organise, edit and share images

WORKFLOW – EVERY PHOTOGRAPHER has one. From how you get the images out of your camera, to what you do with them when you’ve finished editing, we all have subtly different, personalised methods of working. Often, this will involve a combination of processes, perhaps using multiple applications. Yet, just imagine if all this could be done with a single piece of software. Well, dream no more – that’s Zoner Photo Studio’s USP. You’d be forgiven for not being familiar with Zoner, but while there are better-known photo editing solutions out there, bigger doesn’t always mean better. Zoner has been busy creating elegant workflow solutions for photographers for nearly two decades. And the latest iteration of its software – Zoner Photo Studio X – is the company’s best yet! The complete solution The real appeal of the software lies in the fact that it covers every step of the image editing process – from taking images off the memory card, through to creating prints or uploading to a web gallery. This September, Zoner Photo Studio X received a major update, which introduced a new method of processing Raw files, eliminating the need to install third-party add-ons for dozens of newly supported cameras. A complete compatibility list is available on the Zoner website, but rest assured it extends to all major brands. Further enhancements included the addition of a Browser mode in the Develop module to quickly switch between images, the ability to customise folder settings and a range of improvements to Zonerama – the free, online photo and video gallery. Core functionality of Photo Studio remains, however, which means each stage of the workflow can be completed before seamlessly switching to the next. That process starts as soon as you transfer files. Photo Studio X automatically sorts images into folders, naming them and creating backups if you wish. Once downloaded, the organising can begin! Photo Studio X goes far

ALL WRAPPED UP Zoner Photo Studio X will simplify your photography workflow, allowing for an all-inclusive process

a selection of precision tools for localised edits and layer masks. For many, the image editing window is where the workflow journey comes to an end – but not with Photo Studio X. We all know that images look better when shared or printed, so once you’re happy with the way your shots look, you can easily order calendars, photo books and prints within the program. The software also boasts full integration with cloud storage services, including Dropbox, Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive, so it’s easy to back up your shots. You can even share to social media platforms

or upload to Zonerama for complete end-to-end compatibility. Take a test drive (it’s free!) If you want to try Photo Studio X for yourself, a free 30-day download is available for the PC-only application, after which you pay a very reasonable subscription fee monthly or annually. There’s no obligation, so if you decide it’s not for you after that time, it’s fine. But if you like what you see, be sure to vote for the software in the best image editing software category of the PN Awards 2022, and join the growing number of creatives across the world who have made the switch.

beyond offering just folders, you can also add keywords, browse by date and location – even add star ratings and coloured tags for more efficient filing. When you’ve got your files in order, it’s time to switch over to the comprehensive range of editing features, which are non-destructive and include a broad range of filters,

“Zoner has been busy creating elegant workflow solutions for photographers for two decades”

zoner.com

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Competitions

Weather Photographer of the Year

Hosted by the Royal Meteorological Society, the Weather POTY enters its seventh year. It seeks to capture the best images of ever-changing patterns around the world, with around 9000 entries this year. Free to enter for all ages, the judges look for storytelling, and are especially interested in the impact of climate change from a personal perspective.

HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date TBA › 2022 entry costs Free › Website rmets.org/weather- photographer-year-2022

UNDER THE WEATHER Submissions are put to a mixed panel of meteorologists and photographers, with the public voting on the audience favourite award

The Pano Awards The Epson International Pano Awards is the largest contest for panoramic photography. In its 13th year, it received 4129 entries from 1197 photographers in 98 countries – competing to take home the prize money and some Epson goodies.

HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date 17 July 2023 › 2022 entry costs From $20 (single image) › Website thepanoawards.com

PICTURE THE SCENE Keeping up with the times, the Pano Awards now has a 360°/VR category. Traditional images must meet the format requirements of at least a 2:1 ratio, with image stitching allowed but not a requirement

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