News
Owners of Nikon’s popular Z 50 mirrorless have received a welcome boost to autofocus performance thanks to the release of a firmware upgrade. Made available at the end of January, firmware version 2.40 is the latest in a wide range of updates that have been released for the camera since it was launched in October 2019. Users installing the new firmware will find eye detection AF is now available through video recording and that Auto-Area AF now has improved eye detection performance. Additionally, there’s an improved refresh rate for the focus points displayed in live view during subject tracking and face/eye detection AF. Available for download through the Nikon website, firmware version 2.40 can easily be installed by owners. Simply copy the file to a card that has been formatted in the camera, switch the camera on, then select firmware version in the set-up menu before following the on-screen instructions. This update will also add previous upgrades if you’re behind, which include bug fixes, additional lens compatibility and improved subject tracking. nikon.co.uk Nikon Z 50 firmware upgrade boosts AF
Sony adds standard zoom – and teases fast telephoto FE 20-70mm f/4 G offers discerning photographers extra width, while ‘long-awaited’ 300mm broadens range of pro-spec telephotos
Canon UK & Ireland is seeking creative shorts made by filmmakers between the ages of 18 and 25. In partnership with CVP, Stories in Motion winners will pick up Canon cinema kit and the opportunity to shadow an award-winning filmmaker. Three categories make up the contest – music video, documentary and scripted short – and participants can submit three films (one for each group). Entries will be judged by a panel of experts. Assessed on originality, creativity, cinematography and post-production, five entries will be shortlisted per category, with one winner for each. One overall prize winner will then be chosen, scooping an EOS C70 and RF 24-70mm F2.8L lens, plus the opportunity to shadow the judge of their choice for a day. All shortlisted entries will win a £200 voucher to spend at CVP, and each category winner will win an additional £500 CVP voucher. The competition closes for entry on 31 March 2023. Shortlists will be announced 6 April 2023. canon.co.uk Canon joins forces with CVP for film competition
both of which are revered by sports and wildlife photographers, the FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS is set to broaden the range of fast telephotos and is highly anticipated by both the enthusiast and professional communities. We’ll pass on more details when we get them! sony.co.uk the lens grants pleasing bokeh at all focal lengths” “With a minimum focusing distance of 0.25m and a nine- bladed aperture,
while XD Linear Motors are said to reduce both noise and breathing. Additionally, for photographers who prefer manual controls, the zoom, focus and aperture rings allow for direct, immediate adjustments, which could prove especially useful while shooting video. Several features are said to enhance user customisation and control. Two focus hold buttons – plus an auto-to-manual mode switch – could prove handy when adapting to dynamic conditions, while an iris lock prevents accidental changes. The lens is also dust, moisture and smudge resistant to increase protection against external elements. The FE 20-70mm f/4 G will be available this month for £1400. Additionally, Sony has announced the development of a 300mm f/2.8 telephoto full-frame E-mount lens, which is set for launch in early 2024. Sitting alongside the FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS and the FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS,
SONY HAS ANNOUNCED its latest standard zoom, and claims it has redefined the popular lens category in the process. The FE 20-70mm f/4 G, which offers a constant f/4 aperture throughout the range, stretches from an ultra-wide 20mm setting through to a more usual 70mm option. As part of the company’s G series, it promises high image quality, efficient autofocus and user-friendly handling in a compact body, ensuring appeal for stills shooters, videographers and vloggers alike. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.25m and a nine-bladed aperture, the lens reportedly grants pleasing bokeh at all focal lengths. Optical construction comprises seven elements – two AA (advanced aspherical), one aspherical, three ELD (extra-low dispersion) and one ELD aspherical – with flare and ghost resistance. Sony also claims the 20-70mm improves upon previous models by offering faster, quieter and more consistent autofocus,
4 Photography News | Issue 104
photographynews.co.uk
Powered by FlippingBook