The latest issue of Photography News is now available and it’s a big one. Packed in its 64 pages, you’ll find our usual combination of the latest news, insightful tests, informative guides, image-making inspiration, and essential advice, plus we’ve also got all the winners from the 2022 PN Awards. See which products and services you voted as the best in their fields. We’ve picked out some highlights below, but make sure you grab a copy to get the full picture - it’s available in-store or online for free!
ISSUE 104 18 Feb-13 Mar 2023 photographynews.co.uk
Pg21 PN Awards / The votes are in! Check out our full list of winners
Pg34 Big test: X-T5 / Is Fujifilm’s new mirrorless too good to be true?
Pg41 Making movies / Part two of our intro to video essentials
More mirrorless options come to Canon line-up
World’s lightest full-frame model is among a raft of products aimed at the enthusiast end of the market
“The EOS R8 and R50 are hybrids, both promising impressive stills and video”
video at up to 4K/60p and creates slow-motion effects in Full HD at 180p; it also offers in-camera tools, such as Canon Log 3 colour grading – which has a wider dynamic range for more polished results. The EOS R50 is an entry-level camera, ideal for those eager to switch from smartphone photography or videography to
It features the same Dual Pixel CMOS AF II autofocusing system that impresses on the R6 Mark II, and can record images at up to 40fps, though the battery life is somewhat shorter, there’s only one SD card slot and the EVF is smaller compared to its stablemate. As well as promising fantastic stills, the R8 has a useful range of moviemaking functions. It captures
The EOS R8 is the lightest full-frame camera on the market, weighing 461g with battery and card. While it has the same 24.2-megapixel sensor and Digic X processor as the recent R6 Mark II, it sits below that model in the range. Many specs are the same as its bigger brother, with a few absences, too. Most notable are a lack of in-body image stabilisation and mechanical shutter.
CANON JUST ANNOUNCED its newest mirrorless cameras – part of the EOS R line – plus two RF mount lenses. The EOS R8 and R50 are hybrids, promising impressive stills and video, accurate autofocus, remote connectivity and more. The lenses – a 24-50mm and 55-210mm – sit towards the budget end of the spectrum, lending affordable ways to boost creative options.
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Low-cost lenses for RF mount
it has been his photographs that have been the most comforting. They have made us laugh, cry and – most importantly – remember. Family holidays, Christmases, day trips, sunny days out in the garden – he has kept slides or prints of them all. It has been a stark reminder of the importance of image making. And at times like this, the seemingly mundane family snap has equal and perhaps even greater value than the carefully considered composition. This has been a salutary lesson for me. I often bring a camera to family events, but never take the lens cap off. From hereon out, that will change – I’ve become acutely aware of the importance of a photographic legacy. To the issue, which is something of a belter even if I say so myself. We’ve got the much-anticipated announcement of the winners in the Photography News 2022 Awards. Thanks to everyone who took the time to vote, and congratulations to all the manufacturers, services and companies who received a gong. Elsewhere, there’s our usual mix of tests, guides, news and inspiration – something for everyone, I hope. Enjoy the issue.
EDITOR’S LETTER ROGER PAYNE
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something a bit more professional. It’s meant for active, on-the-go creators who prioritise a compact device that can handle their needs. It features Canon’s 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF II autofocusing, can shoot at up to 15fps and has a vari-angle screen. 6K video is oversampled to deliver 4K/30p or FHD at 120p, plus there’s digital image stabilisation and vertical shooting for social media fans. Both cameras have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, pairing with a smartphone to instantly share content or activate remote shooting. They can also double as webcams for enhanced image quality during conferences, lectures and other events. No camera is complete without its lens, and Canon has delivered two RF mount options aimed at the more cash-conscious creative. The RF 24- 50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and RF-S 55- 210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM cover key focal ranges and give plenty of versatility. Both optics are relatively small and lightweight, ideal for everyday use or carrying in a kitbag. The 24-50mm suits street and travel photography
Some personal news. Less than two weeks into the new year, my dad died. As anyone who has been in my position will know, it’s the worst of times. But I don’t mention this for an outpouring of sympathy, more because it’s really brought home the value of photography. Allow me to explain. The reason you’re reading this column is because of my dad. He was the one who said to me: ‘Why don’t you try photography?’ when I was in my mid-teens wondering what on earth I was going to do with my life. Dad leant me his camera (a Kodak Retinette) to get started, helped me set up a darkroom, even became a sitter for me when I went through that initial stage of photographing everything. I have so much to thank him for. But he was also a photographer himself. Not prolific by modern standards, but very capable, and as my family starts the tricky task of going through all his belongings, Roger Payne
“All four are available for pre-order and will be in stores 30 April” £1699, or with the RF 24-50mm for £1899, the R50 will be £789 body only or £899 with RF 18-45mm, while the RF 24-50mm and RF-S 55-210mm will be £379.99 and £429.99 respectively. canon.co.uk
– situations that may require up to 2x optical zoom – as well as portraits, given its seven-blade aperture. The 55- 210mm better suits sports and wildlife photography. Both reportedly create beautiful bokeh for a stark contrast between subject and background. The lenses promise quiet autofocus with minimal breathing thanks to a stepper motor. Users can switch between auto and manual focus using the lens control ring. Additionally, the RF lenses support image stabilisation with 4.5 stops, so users can work more confidently in low-light situations. All four products are available for pre-order and will be in stores 30 April. The R8 will be available body only for
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OUT OF FOCUS Both optics create stunning bokeh for lovely contrast
What’s inside
11 Prize-winning inspiration A fantastic selection of victorious images from some of the biggest photography competitions 19 Show preview The Societies trade show is around the corner. Here’s why you should go and what to expect! 21 Photography News 2022 Awards – the winners! The votes have been counted and here are your champions. All hail the best products, services and companies in the photo world! 34 Big test: Fujifilm X-T5 With a new sensor and processor on board, is this incarnation of the X-T series the best yet? 41 NEW SERIES! Making movies Our new, easy-to-follow guide will help you make a start in creating great movies without
needing to invest in a bagful of accessories. Just yet, at least 45 Buyers’ guide: used and hiring Make your pennies stretch further by renting the kit when you need it, or buying used. We round up the best options to help you choose
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53 B uyers’ guide:
continuous lighting LED is a viable alternative to flash for both stills and video work. We uncover some of the key products that can give you consistent light on demand 59 First tests An affordable Photoshop alternative, a powerful telephoto lens and a well-priced portable flash set-up are all tried and tested this month
03 News Canon’s mirrorless EOS R series keeps growing, and news of an ‘ultimate’ lens from OM System – plus all other recent releases 09 Samsung word search and Photo 24 Find the missing word and you could win yourself a Samsung memory card! Also, we have more details on this year’s Photo 24
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49 Video test: Panasonic S5 II Panasonic’s latest Lumix is pored over by our expert. Is it the answer to your hybrid needs?
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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,
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News
‘Ultimate’ 90mm added to OM System Macro optic offers 2x magnification as standard and up to 4x with optional teleconverter
OM DIGITAL SOLUTIONS is giving Micro Four Thirds users the chance to get closer than ever with its latest optical announcement. The M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm f/3.5 Macro IS Pro, which will be available from the end of this month, offers more magnification than any lens made by the company, realising twice-life-size magnification as standard as well as four times alongside the optional MC-20 teleconverter. Such levels of magnification give ultra-close-up shooting capabilities, putting almost microscopic details within reach. In addition, it’s claimed that this optic also doubles up as a high-quality telephoto lens, with no drop off in quality between the close focusing range and more conventional subject distances. Dubbed ‘the ultimate field macro lens for the seasoned professional and macro-curious alike’, the 90mm also benefits from an in- lens stabilisation system and IP53 weatherproofing capabilities. Optically, the lens comprises 18 elements in 13 groups, including two Super ED, four ED, one HR and one Super HR element. These combine to suppress chromatic aberrations. The 90mm also uses Zero (Zuiko Extra-
Along with IP53 weatherproofing, providing splash-, dust- and freeze- proofing to -10°C, the 90mm macro also features a focus limit switch, manual focus clutch for speedy switching between AF and manual, plus a single lens function button. Tipping the scales at 453g and measuring 136mm in length, the M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm f/3.5 Macro IS Pro will retail for £1299. om-digitalsolutions.com “Available at the end of the month, it provides more magnification than any optic the company has ever made”
low Reflection Optical) coatings in order to reduce ghosting and flare, and has a fluorine coating on the front element only for easy dust and dirt removal. Owners of the existing 60mm macro will know that autofocusing performance could be improved. OM Digital Solutions claims to have done that here with an AF system that’s both fast and precise at all focusing distances. This is achieved by a floating inner focusing system with two lens groups that work independently of one another. The OM System’s focus stacking functionality is also available, with compatible models. Image sharpness is boosted by the five-axis image stabilisation system, which works in tandem with an in-body system to offer up to seven stops of compensation. The optic also features an acceleration sensor designed to detect motion blur, something that’s prevalent with macro photography.
Leica looks to boost SL lens set Two new compact and lightweight lenses have been added to the Leica SL system. The Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH and 50mm f/2 ASPH are designed for travel and day-to-day use by both stills and video creatives. A linear direct drive mechanism in both optics is claimed to offer a fast, quiet AF performance, while aspherical elements are used to ensure high- quality results. The 35mm and 50mm can be bought individually, for £1950 and £1700 respectively, or as part of a kit with the SL2 camera body for £5500 and £5300. uk.leica-camera.com
CLOSER THAN EVER The 90mm macro offers twice-life-size magnification as standard, with the optional MC-20 teleconverter doubling that again
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Club news
London Salon of Photography’s exhibition
will be a touring exhibition, allowing people to see a selection of prints chosen by the 43 invited members of the London Salon. Key dates are as follows: • Online exhibition entry 1 March to 15 April, results announced 6 May • Smethwick PS Exhibition Centre 17 June to 15 July • Creek Gallery, Faversham 25 July to 6 August • Patchings Gallery, Nottingham 26 August to 1 October The exhibition will also be displayed at Wilkinson Cameras in Liverpool and Carlisle, during October and November. thelondonsalon.org
The London Salon of Photography’s annual exhibition is back for the first time since 2019, and prints will be open for consideration from 1 March. Once results are announced, there
Paul Norris and Rod Giddins saw success in Isle of Thanet PS’s third quarterly PDI competition. Paul’s Woodland Waterfall triumphed in the advanced group, while Rod’s Steam Express won in intermediate. More talks and competitions are planned for the rest of the season, including the Food Isle of Thanet PS reveals quarterly winners Sigma sets new standard with 50mm prime and Drink competition on 2 March, judged by former chair Laura Drury LRPS. Meetings are on Thursdays at 7.30pm at the Portland Centre, Broadstairs. Annual adult membership for the remainder of the season is £17.50, or the weekly fee is £4. isleofthanetphotographicsociety.com Hundreds of photos at RTPS exhibition
From portraiture to landscape, and everything in-between, Richmond and Twickenham Photographic Society’s annual exhibition celebrates the diversity of photography. It’s taking place at the Landmark Arts Centre in Teddington, Surrey, from 7 to 16 April alongside the Royal Photographic Society Visual Art Group’s 2023 exhibition. There will also be four workshops, including a demonstration on the cyanotype printing process. The charge is £5 per session, but this gives you free entry to the exhibition. The exhibition will be open daily from 10am to 4pm, including during the Easter bank holidays. Admission is £3 (children go free). The club meets every Thursday at 8pm at S Luke’s Kew Community Centre, with midweek meetings for special interest groups. New members are warmly welcomed. rtps.org.uk
response linear actuator (HLA) motor, which is designed to deliver speedy, accurate and near- silent autofocusing. The weight of the focus motor has been reduced to slim down the lens barrel, resulting in a light, compact optic that weighs 670g and is 109.5mm in length. Weather resistance and water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element also feature. The manual aperture ring features a click switch that allows users to swap between stepped third-stop increments or a smooth, click-free action more suited to videography. It can also be locked off. A customisable AFL button provides further versatility, while the supplied petal lens hood features a rubberised grip for easier attachment and removal. sigma-imaging-uk.com “This design is purported to deliver sharper results right across the frame”
Sigma has added a 50mm f/1.4 lens to its DG DN Art range of primes. The £850 optic, which will be available from late February in L-Mount and E-mount fittings, is claimed to offer a number of significant improvements over the current 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM, including better optics and faster, more precise autofocus. The lens features 14 elements in 11 groups, with one special low dispersion and three aspherical elements to deliver improved performance. This design is purported to deliver sharper results right across the frame, particularly at the edges, with tighter control of sagittal coma flare. It also features 11 diaphragm blades for smoother bokeh. The 50mm is the first DG DN lens in the Art line-up to incorporate Sigma’s new high-
Tell us your news! Whether you’re looking for new members, want to tell the world about successes or promote talks, exhibitions and events, please send your club news to: rogerpayne@bright.uk.com
HOODED HERO The new prime includes a highly adjustable aperture ring and petal lens hood
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Event of the year! Don’t miss out on this year’s Photo and Video 24. New location, new activities, same great fun
A Samsung memory card! WIN!
t
ZQSCORCAMQR T J F E D I T I N G E N M U I N I M U L A H UNSNNGCLGRP GFQPONNUYZA HUWEMSOMYPR S J A R I R I I Z H G A I S U N E T X O O O L F O T A H A I T T T F I F R T P R E O O O P L T E I A I X H B H I MWPORPPPOP XSAANGSOEOG ADROSONSLKW P R E H S E I U E Q W RAEALDORTXB O W L F I I N E D K G GANOQVZONER 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 13 March 2023 and the winner will be drawn at random from all the correct entries received. Only entries from UK residents will be accepted. The missing word from the word search in issue 103 was ‘continuous’. samsung.com/uk/memory-cards
“We’re expanding the event beyond stills to include videography”
PREPARATIONS CONTINUE BEHIND the scenes for what promises to be the imaging event of the year. Our annual 24-hour festival of creativity is back, and it’s going to be a very special two days. Taking place in Cambridge on 3 and 4 June, Photo and Video 24 gives Photography News readers the opportunity to get snapping in one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. This year, we’re expanding the remit beyond stills, with a programme of events and activities also including videography, enabling you to make the most of the hybrid functionality on your cameras. As with previous years, anyone wanting to feature at the event will need to register; the dates and details of how will follow in the next issue. Places will be strictly limited, so be sure to get your name down once registration opens if you want the chance to get involved in the proceedings. We’re delighted to have MPB on board as headline sponsors, and can now reveal our base for the 24-hour period will be the
Graduate hotel, Granta Place, Cambridge (graduatehotels.com). The perfectly central location, the Graduate puts you in easy reach of Cambridge’s most picturesque sights, so you’ll never be far from a creative opportunity. As mentioned last month, we recognise Cambridge is not as large as London, which is why we will be arranging a comprehensive range of activities – both free and paid-for – to keep you all busy. We’ll update with more details next issue, but for now, keep your diary clear on 3 and 4 June – you won’t want to miss this! photographynews.co.uk
Editorial team Editorial director Roger Payne rogerpayne@bright.uk.com Deputy chief sub editor Matthew Winney Sub editor Ben Gawne Junior sub editor Lori Hodson Contributing writers Will Cheung, Adam Duckworth, Matty Graham, Samara Husbands, Katie Kasperson, Kingsley Singleton Advertising team Sales director Sam Scott-Smith 01223 499457 samscott-smith@bright.uk.com Senior sales executive Claire Cornish 01223 499462 clairecornish@bright.uk.com
Design team Design director Andy Jennings Design & ad production Hedzlynn Kamaruzzaman, Emma Di’Iuorio and Man-Wai Wong Distribution Distribution and subscription manager Phil Gray philipgray@bright.uk.com Publishing team Managing directors Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck As well as your local camera club, you can pick up Photography News in-store from: Cameraworld, Castle Cameras, Jessops, London Camera Exchange, Park Cameras, Wex Photo Video, Wilkinson Cameras
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Competitions
GET READY FOR a massive dollop of inspiration! A number of international photography competitions have announced their 2022 winners in recent weeks, with each one showcasing some absolutely outstanding imagery. We have selected three of our favourite contests, covering macro photography, the great outdoors and – of course – dogs. The intention? To get you out with your camera – and fully motivated. Study these images, consider what Prize-winning inspiration “We’ve selected three of our favourite contests, covering macro photography, the great outdoors and – of course – dogs” makes them successful and then try having a go yourself. As a bonus, we’ve also supplied the contact details and entry information for all three of the competitions. That way, if you fancy your chances this year, you can begin preparations for making a submission next time around. Good luck! Give your photography a creative boost with these sumptuous successes from recent contests WORDS BY KATIE KASPERSON
Close-up Photographer of the Year
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Winners from 2022 include Frequency from the Intimate Landscape category (above) and Ice Encrusted Comatricha from Fungi (right)
Samantha Stephens took the honours in the Close-up Photographer of the Year with her awe-inspiring image of a carnivorous pitcher plant consuming two salamanders. The photo, which she made in the Algonquin Provincial Park in Canada, earns her a £2500 cash prize, the CUPOTY trophy, and her work publicly displayed in the competition’s online gallery. Stephens explained that while northern pitcher plants generally feast on insects, spotted salamanders are also on their menu. “While following researchers on their daily surveys, I saw a pitcher with two salamanders floating in its fluid, both at the same
HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date TBA › 2022 entry costs £11 (single image), £16 (up to three images) › Website cupoty.com
stage of decay. I knew it was a special and fleeting moment,” she said. This year, CUPOTY attracted over 9000 submissions from 54 countries, with entries across 11 categories.
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Competitions
International Garden Photographer of the Year
International Garden Photographer of the Year (IGPOTY) picked winners in nine categories, with Tony North crowned the overall victor for his image Blue Tajinaste. Taken atop a mountain on La Palma, Blue Tajinaste captures the echium thyrsiflorum native to the Canary Islands. Using a star tracker and multiple exposures to create his final image, North earned first prize in the Breathing Spaces category, alongside the grand title. According to North, it required ‘an enormous amount of effort’ to be in the right place (‘on top of the caldera in La Palma’) at the right time (’in the middle of the last night of May’). North will receive a £5000 cash prize, the Threatened Plants Photographic Award (in association with Botanic Gardens Conservation International), and his photo will take centre stage in the IGPOTY exhibition at Kew Gardens from 4 February to 5 March 2023.
HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date TBA › 2022 entry costs
Under 18: £5 (up to four images); Adult: £15 (up to four images); £30 (portfolio – six images) › Website igpoty.com
GARDEN VARIETY Categories include Beautiful Gardens, Abstract Views, Breathing Spaces, The World of Fungi and many more!
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Competitions
Dog Photography Awards
This year’s competition received around 1400 submissions from 50 countries. The criteria for a winning image were the dog’s body language, camera settings, composition, artistic choices and post-processing. The 2022 jury consisted of six photographers, including Dog Photography Awards creator Audrey Bellot.
The Dog Photography Awards is an annual, open-to-all competition dedicated to canine lovers. Entrants choose from four categories – portrait and landscape, action, studio or dogs and people – with each awarding a €500 prize. The 2022 winners were Dalia Fichmann (The Avalanche Rescue Dog), Francesco Junior Mura (She Is Bagheera), Su Kaye (Things Are Looking Up) and Sabrina Theden (Unconditional Love), respectively. For The Avalanche Rescue Dog, Fichmann buried herself under snow and waited for search dogs to find her – a daunting prospect, but worth it for the image. Mura captured She Is Bagheera at an agility competition in Italy, Kaye took the unique Things Are Looking Up in her studio and Theden photographed Unconditional Love at a railway museum.
HAVE A GO! › Open to All levels › 2023 closing date TBA › 2022 entry costs €15 per photograph (no limit to entries/categories) › Website dogphotographyawards.com
WE HAVE LIFT-OFF Last year’s contest ran from 13 July to 30 November 2022, with the finalists announced in late December and prizes awarded in January 2023
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MPB
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Once again, MPB has triumphed in the PN Awards, scooping up the coveted best used specialist retailer gong. One trip to the site and you’ll understand why Used to success
want to spend thousands? MPB is the place to go for these reasons, and so many more. Whether you wish to buy, sell or trade, MPB makes the process simple and stress-free. If you’re selling equipment, just type in what you’ve got – including the condition – and for the vast majority of items, MPB will give you a price on the spot. In some cases, you may have to wait for a costing, but that will be a matter of hours, not days. You can be confident that the price quoted isn’t arrived at by guesswork. MPB has its own dynamic pricing engine, which uses supply and demand data to provide the right price for your kit. Factors including age, popularity, brand and condition are all considered, saving you the need to ‘shop around’ for a better deal. Happy with the price you’ve been offered? Accept the quote and you’ll be sent suitable packaging to post the item off to MPB for checking. Once it’s received, MPB staff will cast their expert eye over your kit, confirming that all is well so you can get your cash. What’s more, if you’ve underestimated the condition of the kit, you could receive even more! If you’re purchasing or trading in kit to buy something else on the site, the process is equally hassle-free. The items you see listed on the site are the actual products on sale, not a stock photograph. That means you can closely check condition before deciding. You also have the added peace of mind that all items sold from MPB, regardless of condition, have a six-month guarantee. MPB has enjoyed multiple wins in this hotly contested category of the “Newly released products will appear on the platform within three months”
WHEN IT COMES to buying and selling used equipment, Photography News readers agree with the wider creative community – MPB is the destination of choice. The online platform has been voted the best used specialist retailer in the PN 2022 Awards and paying a visit to mpb.com will soon confirm why. Put simply, the company offers the largest global platform to buy, sell and trade used photo and video equipment. Other online options are out there, but it’s important to recognise that MPB is not a marketplace where anyone can sell. Every item on the site is carefully scrutinised by MPB’s experts, so you can buy in complete confidence. Products are added to the site daily, with over 3000 items typically posted each week and 400,000 items recirculated on an annual basis. Naturally, this means you’ll have a huge range to choose from, but as well as cameras and lenses, you can also buy a range of accessories, including tripods, flash units, filters and bags – or find something a bit different to open up a new range of creative opportunities. Want to try close-up photography, but don’t want to splash out on a new macro lens? Fancy taking up video, but don’t
EXPERT EYE All items sold on MPB have been checked over by staff – and come with a six-month guarantee
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MPB
CRUNCHING NUMBERS Over 400,000 items go through MPB each year
PN Awards – and that’s down to the excellent service our readers receive. The company is rightly proud of its reputation for delivering first-class service – it is rated ‘excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 19,000 reviews from satisfied customers. Buying used may not be the first choice for everyone, but it’s becoming increasingly relevant in modern society. The cost of living is increasing for us all, so choosing used will make your money go further – typical prices on products bought from MPB are a third less than new. And don’t think that the platform is populated with aged cameras dug out from the back of a cupboard. With a few exceptions, MPB only stocks digital cameras, plus you’ll often find the very latest models – on average, newly released products will appear on the platform within three months. There’s also an environmental consideration – selling equipment is a far more planet-friendly approach than sending it to landfill. Plus MPB’s own business is on track to be net zero carbon by 2035. In addition, all the packaging used is 100% plastic- free, while the platform itself runs on 100% renewable electricity. Navigating your way around the site is simple. Home page links allow you to quickly get access to recently added kit, plus you can compare and filter listings to find exactly what you need. If you need help, live chat is available, plus there’s a handy FAQ section – or you can message MPB directly for a fast response. As we gear up for another year of photo and video making, you’re sure to have a few items on your wish list. Make MPB your first port of call whether buying or selling – you could well end up bagging a bargain.
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Show preview
Showing the way The Societies of Photographers 2023 Photo Convention and Trade Show is just around the corner. Attending could revolutionise your shooting WHEREVER YOU ARE on your photographic journey, The Societies of Photographers Photo Convention and Trade Show has something for you. Whether it’s honing your craft, catching some new kit, enhancing your skill set or transforming your business, you’ll find the answers – and a whole lot more – at this fabulous four-day event. Held at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith from 15-18 March, the event is split into two distinct sections: the convention and the trade show. First up, the convention offers four days of opportunities to learn from huge industry players. While the trade show, which runs from 16-18 March, is a chance to get hands-on with the latest gear and speak to reps from key manufacturers. Both will place your finger firmly on the pulse of the UK imaging scene, helping you buy new kit, attract customers or perfect your technique. If it’s advice and inspiration you’re after, the convention is the place to start. The Societies have amassed a world- class programme of photographers, industry experts and marketing pros to help fine-tune your approach. Workshops, masterclasses and seminars are spread throughout the four days, meaning you’re free to attend multiple sessions and maximise the scope for learning. Once you’ve filled your head with photo ideas, head to the trade show and pore over the kit that will help turn your vision into reality. Major camera brands like Canon, Fujifilm and Sony will be joined by companies from all corners of the photographic universe, such as Epson, Atomos, Light Blue and Graphistudio. The trade show is the perfect time to get burning questions answered before buying, so you can know you’re making the right choices. But that’s not all! On Friday 17 March, there’s a glitzy awards night, celebrating the finest photographic talent and products from all over the world. Plus, the winners from the annual 20x16in print competition will be announced following the public judging session on 15 and 16 March. And if you’re already a member of one of the Societies, why not submit a selection of images to be judged for a Licentiateship, Associateship or Fellowship accreditation? Again, judging is public, so you’ll be able to learn why your work makes the grade – or why not! Pick and choose which parts of the event you attend. To simply visit the trade show on one day, entry is £10 (or free if you register before 28 February). Or, go the whole hog and bag a Super Big Deal Ticket for £550, covering entry to masterclasses on all four days, two superclasses of your choice, the awards evening and a ticket to the trade show. Whatever you choose, it promises to be an event to remember – and one which could change the way you photograph. Find details on speakers, seminars and exhibitors at thesocieties.net/convention “The Societies have amassed a world-class programme of experts to help hone your approach”
THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE From maternity photography to disaster-proofing your business, there’s something for everyone in the talks and seminars
SEEING IS BELIEVING Get hands-on with your next camera – and hear about the ins and outs from a certified expert
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Awards
THE PHOTOGRAPHY NEWS 2022 AWARDS
You, dear readers, voted in your thousands – and now they have all been counted! Here are the worthy award winners in their entirety
WORDS BY WILL CHEUNG AND ROGER PAYNE
FIRST, THANK YOU. This year’s awards saw a huge number or people complete our online voting form, to have their say on the best imaging products and services available over the last 12 months. As always, there are one or two surprises, but you have certainly proven yourself a very knowledgeable and discerning audience. We wouldn’t expect anything less. To the winners – congratulations. The products and services you offer continue to excite and invigorate this wonderful hobby of ours. May your R&D departments, stores and websites continue to overflow with fantastic fresh ideas! But let’s cut to the chase – you came here for the winners, so that’s what we’re going to deliver. Drum roll, please…
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Awards
Cameras
BEST ENTHUSIAST MICRO FOUR THIRDS CAMERA WINNER Panasonic Lumix DC-G9
BEST ENTHUSIAST APS-C MIRRORLESS CAMERA WINNER Fujifilm X-E4
BEST DSLR CAMERA WINNER Nikon D850
BEST TOP-END FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERA WINNER Nikon Z 9
The X-E4 may be Fujifilm’s smallest X Mount camera, but it’s big when it comes to performance – and a deserving winner of this competitive category. It’s a rangefinder-styled machine based around a 26-megapixel Fujifilm X-Trans CMOS sensor which is optical low-pass filter-free to enable the finest details of scene to be recorded – and it’s brilliant with video as well as stills. In video, it can record DCI 4K/30p video at 8-bit internally and in 10-bit through HDMI. In stills, it can race through shots at 20fps with the electronic shutter. Small is beautiful as far as the award-winning X-E4 is concerned.
Most camera brands are focusing their creative energies on the mirrorless kit rather than DSLRs, but this camera type is already fully developed. There’s no model that illustrates this better than Nikon’s hugely respected D850. It won this award last year, so it was no surprise that once again it hit the jackpot. With its full-frame 45.4-megapixel sensor, 7fps continuous shooting and great handling, the D850 remains a massive player in Nikon’s portfolio.
The pressure was on the Z 9 to deliver – well, it did. Recent firmware updates have honed its AF skills even further. Hybrid phase/contrast detection gives superfast, responsive performance. An advanced algorithm can tell between cats, dogs and birds, as well as planes, trains and motorbikes. This deep-bodied, 45.7-megapixel machine is notable on many fronts. It’s electronic shutter only, shoots Raws at 20fps, full-size JPEGs at 30fps and cropped JPEGs at 120fps. Among PN readers at least, the brand is back with a vengeance. Congratulations, Nikon.
The Lumix DC-G9 sits at the top of Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds. As you’d expect from a flagship, it’s a high-performing stills and video camera with speed a key selling point. With mechanical shutter, it can blaze away at 9fps with AF tracking using DFD tech for over 600 frames. Switching to the electronic shutter ups the shooting speed to 20fps with AF tracking, which the DC-G9 can maintain for 50 shots. If ultimate stills are your aim, the DC-G9 delivers 80-megapixel shots with its high-resolution mode. Add weather-resistant sealing, 6.5EV image stabiliser, dual SD card slots and video features, there’s no doubt the DC-G9 is a worthy winner.
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon EOS R10 Fujifilm X-S10
ALSO NOMINATED:
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III Nikon D6 Nikon D780
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon EOS R3 Canon EOS R5 Leica M10-R Leica M11 Nikon Z 7II
Nikon Z fc Nikon Z 50
Pentax K-1 Mark II Pentax K-3 Mark III
ALSO NOMINATED: Olympus PEN E-P7
BEST TOP-END APS-C MIRRORLESS CAMERA WINNER Canon EOS R7
BEST ENTHUSIAST FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERA WINNER Sony A7R III
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Panasonic Lumix DC-G100
Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R Sony A7R Mark IV Sony A1 Sony A7 IV
BEST TOP-END MICRO FOUR THIRDS CAMERA WINNER OM System OM-1
BEST BRIDGE/COMPACT CAMERA WINNER Leica Q2
Canon introduced its first two APS-C format cameras with the RF mount in 2022, the EOS R10 and EOS R7, both competitively priced and feature-rich. Of the two, the EOS R7 captured the imagination. With the benefit of the 1.6x crop factor, it had nature photographers clamouring for the camera to reach the shops. The EOS R7’s 32.5 megapixels is a key attraction, but there’s plenty more such as continuous shooting at 30fps with the electronic shutter, 7EV IBIS and an AF system with deep-learning AI and subject recognition cascaded down from the EOS R3. With such impressive features, you might expect the EOS R7 to be weighed down with a hefty price tag, but the reasonable cost has obviously enhanced its appeal.
Sony’s series of high-resolution, full-frame R cameras have gained many fans. While the A7R III is getting on in digital camera terms, it remains a great machine with an impressive skill set. Resolution from the Exmor R CMOS sensor is a very useful 42.4 megapixels and, partnered with the Bionz X image processor, superb imaging performance is assured with low levels of digital noise and the ability to deal with up to 15EV dynamic range. Despite such high resolution, this camera can shoot continuously at 10fps, and you get that with AE/AF tracking, too. The A7R III is a capable, versatile machine and thoroughly deserves its success.
Leica, the premium brand recognised by its red dot, has emerged the winner here with its stunning Q2. The brand has been quietly expanding its portfolio merging innovation with performance and elegance – and the outcome is a formidable product line-up that will appeal to photographers of all levels. Superbly engineered and dust- and splash-proof, this 47.3-megapixel camera is fronted by the fixed 28mm f/1.7 Summilux, pin-sharp across its aperture range. With its high-res OLED viewfinder, sensitive touchscreen and Leica aesthetics, the Q2 is a marvel.
The OM-1 is the first unit from OM Digital Solutions, which bought Olympus, and the last with its branding. Whatever its pedigree, there is no denying the OM-1 is probably the best Micro Four Thirds camera we’ve seen to date. Its rugged, yet compact body is home to state-of-the-art AF, an 8EV image stabiliser and stacked, back-side illuminated 20.4-megapixel sensor. Such speed gives the ability to shoot Raws at 50fps with focus tracking and 120fps with single shot AF. If you need higher-resolution files, handheld HR mode gives 50-megapixel files. Make no mistake, the OM-1 is a landmark camera pushing the format to new heights.
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon EOS R6 Leica SL2-S Nikon Z 5 Nikon Z 6II
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Fujifilm X100V Nikon Coolpix P950 Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II Ricoh GR IIIx Sony RX100 VII Sony ZV-1
ALSO NOMINATED: Fujifilm X-H2 Fujifilm X-H2S Fujifilm X-T4 Leica CL Sony A6600
ALSO NOMINATED:
Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 Sigma fp L
Olympus OM-D E-M1X Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 II Panasonic Lumix DC-GH6
Sony A7C Zeiss ZX1
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Awards
Cameras continued BEST MEDIUM FORMAT CAMERA WINNER Fujifilm GFX 100S
Lenses
BEST WIDE-ANGLE LENS WINNER Samyang AF 14mm f/2.8
BEST STANDARD LENS WINNER Zeiss Otus 55mm f/1.4
BEST MACRO LENS
WINNER Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro
Photographers seeking ultimate image quality are spoilt for choice here. For the second year in a row, Fujifilm GFX 100S wins out. With a sensor boasting 102 megapixels, this is the star act in a classy bunch.
Leading independent lens brand Sigma nabs the award in this category. A member of Sigma’s flagship Art collection, the 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro packs a considerable punch. It’s not only capable of life-size magnification, but it’s also weather resistant, has a focus limiter and Sigma’s renowned HSM focus motor guarantees fast AF. As you’d expect, its no-compromise construction of 17 elements in 12 groups delivers outstanding optical performance, and it’s a deserving victor of our macro lens accolade. ALSO NOMINATED: Canon RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Fujifilm XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro Irix 150mm f/2.8 Macro 1:1 Laowa 58mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Tokina FíRIN 100mm f/2.8 FE Macro
Emerging victorious from our long shortlist shows how highly this lens is regarded among PN readers.
Serial PN Awards winner, Zeiss’ fast-aperture 55mm f/1.4 standard lens is an exceptionally capable optic – and one to which many discerning photographers aspire. This apochromat belong to Zeiss’ outstanding Otus collection, so you are guaranteed stunning performance with seriously low levels of chromatic aberration, thanks to a sophisticated optical formula that includes an aspherical element and several low-dispersion lenses. It’s superb to use, with a silky smooth manual focus mechanism. There’s no denying that this Zeiss optic is a standout.
ALSO NOMINATED: Fujifilm GFX 50S II
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM Fujifilm GF20-35mm f/4 R WR Irix 21mm f/1.4 Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8 Panasonic Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM Art
Hasselblad 907X 50C Hasselblad X2D 100C Pentax 645Z
BEST VIDEO-FOCUSED CAMERA WINNER Canon EOS R5 C
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Fujifilm XF16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR Laowa Argus 35mm f/0.95 FF Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 OM System M.Zuiko 20mm f/1.4 Pro
Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG DN Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Voigtlander 29mm f/0.8 MFT Super Nokton BEST SUPERZOOM LENS WINNER Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD
Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE II Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DG DN
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF
Editor’s Choice: Voigtländer 110mm f/2.5 Macro APO-Lanthar
Editor’s Choice: Irix 45mm f/1.4 Dragonfly
With the ability to record 45-megapixel stills and 8K video, the compact EOS R5 C is a laudable winner.
ALSO NOMINATED:
Blackmagic PCC 6K G2 Canon EOS C70 Kinefinity Mavo Edge 6K Red Komodo 6K Sony FX30 Z Cam E2-F6
BEST INSTANT CAMERA WINNER Polaroid Now
Our winner came from leading independent brand, Tamron. This APS-C format lens has an incredible 22.2x zoom range, meaning you truly get wide-angle to extreme telephoto coverage – and in a portable package. Plus, it’s moisture-resistant and focuses closely enough to give a magnification ratio of 1:2.9 for near-macro shots.
With its metal barrel, smooth manual focus ring and traditional
aperture setting, the 110mm f/2.5 Macro APO-Lanthar provides a lot of pleasure in use. But that's not to say it’s lacking in modern features. Focus peaking is fully supported, the lens has all the electrical contacts required for EXIF information to be recorded, and it has a distance encoder, so it works with any Sony Alpha camera with five-axis image stabilisation.” Roger Payne – Editor
A winner a couple of years ago, this optic still has much to offer.
ALSO NOMINATED: Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
Polaroid is forever linked with instant photography. The Now does a fabulous job of keeping the legions of instant analogue image makers inspired.
It’s well-made, weather sealed and delivers impressive results. Its manual-focus-only construction demands you slow down and make more considered, thoughtful images, which is a good thing in my book.” Roger Payne – Editor
Fujifilm XF18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 12-60mm f/2.8-4 ASPH Power OIS
ALSO NOMINATED: instax mini Evo Lomo’instant
Nikon Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 Nikon Z 24-200mm f4-6.3 VR
Canon Zoemini S2 Kodak Mini Shot 3
Olympus M.Zuiko ED 12-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD
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