News
Sony raises standard with new 50mm
Autofocus is said to be 1.9x faster than conventional lenses, thanks to the use of the company’s high-thrust XD linear motors and an advanced control algorithm. Weather proofing, including a fluorine-coated front element, completes the picture. Available now, the lens costs £1500. sony.co.uk
Sony added a fast-aperture 50mm standard lens to its G Master range. The FE 50mm f/1.4 GM is claimed to deliver ‘captivating quality and naturally rendered bokeh’, making it a perfect partner for the latest Sony cameras. The full-frame optic has an 11-blade diaphragm, with two XA and one ED glass element in its construction.
Fujifilm X Series users now have a lighter telephoto option in Samyang’s AF 75mm f/1.8 X telephoto. Offering the 35mm equivalent to a 112.5mm optic, the 75mm weighs just 257g and is only 69.3mm in length, making it a contender for photographers and videographers wanting compact glass. Optical performance is claimed to be strong thanks to two high-refractive (HR) and three extra- low dispersion (ED) elements in its construction. These ensure contrast is high with resolution consistent across the frame, while advanced coatings help deliver impressive sharpness. A nine- bladed diaphragm and the f/1.8 maximum aperture combine for smooth bokeh, plus the lens is sealed in five places to repel dust and moisture. AF is claimed to be fast, accurate and quiet, making the lens suitable for both stills and video use. Additional functionality is also provided via a two-position custom mode switch. These include a preset aperture control, allowing users to adjust depth-of-field more smoothly when recording video. The lens is primed for release next month for £474. Samyang has also introduced a manual focus adapter for its V-AF series lenses. The £438 V-AF Manual Focus Adapter fits on the front of the lens, granting a focus throw of up to 300° (depending on the lens it’s attached to) and offering precise control. samyanglens.com Samyang launches featherweight X Series telephoto Prime 75mm provides Fujifilm users with compact alternative
OPTIMAL PRIME The new G Master 50mm prime provides incredible performance in a lightweight and compact profile
Club news
On 24 February, North Fylde Photographic Society (NFPS) delivered an honorary membership to Ritchie McCulloch, one of the club’s co-founders. At 101, Ritchie is North Fylde’s oldest member, credited with merging the club’s two predecessors and helping to shape North Fylde into its current form. Paul King (chairman) and Neil Pascoe (external competition secretary) paid Ritchie a surprise visit to award his certificate. “He was in fine form,” said Neil. “It was a great pleasure for us.” northfylde-ps.co.uk 101 and counting
Get your images in the running at Cheltenham
Cheltenham Camera Club invites entries to its 11th Cheltenham International Salon of Photography (CISP 2023). There are five sections, with 141 awards up for grabs. Entries should be made online by 9 April 2023. Judging will be from 21-23 April, with an awards evening on 7 September. cheltenhamcamera club.uk
HONOURED Ritchie McCulloch (left) and Paul King (right)
Issue 105 | Photography News 7
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