NEWS
Nikon has released a free firmware update for the ZR, which delivers a set of improvements for long-form and multicamera production. The headline upgrade extends maximum continuous recording time from 125 minutes to 360 minutes, which makes the ZR more suitable for documentaries. The update also adds timecode input via the external mic/line jack, while a Red-style file- naming system improves organisation on multicam shoots with Red cameras. Usability advances include expanded LUT import capacity (now up to 50), new exposure warning lines for Log recording and an energy-saving lamp option. nikon.co.uk LONGER TAKES FOR NIKON ZR
FOUR-MIDABLE DETAIL FROM MACRO LAOWA
Venus Optics has expanded its macro line-up with the release of the Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO in Micro Four Thirds mount, bringing one of its most specialised optics to MFT shooters for the first time. Previously available for full- frame mirrorless systems, the optic now combines its native 2x life-size magnification with the MFT sensor’s 2x crop factor, ultimately delivering a 4x full- frame-equivalent magnification without sacrificing resolution. The lens features a complex optical construction made of 13 elements in ten groups and uses an apochromatic (APO) design to suppress both longitudinal and lateral chromatic aberration, which ensures clean edges and high contrast even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. A nine-blade aperture also lets the lens double as a short-telephoto option for smooth background blur and a compressed 180mm-equivalent field of view for portraits. Optimised for modern MFT bodies, the lens includes electronic contacts for in-camera aperture control, EXIF data and improved stabilisation support. Internal focusing maintains a constant length at the 205mm minimum working distance, making it well suited to field macro work. It weighs around 540g and costs $449. No UK price has been revealed yet. venuslens.net
UK CREATIVES LOBBY FOR AI
A pressure group headed by the Association of Photographers (AOP) and four other creator-led organisations have lobbied policy- makers on generative AI’s impact on the UK’s creative industries. Acting via the Creators’ Rights Alliance, the groups launched a report titled Brave New World? Justice for Creators in the Age of Generative AI, calling for urgent legal protections for professional creators. Representing over 80,000 creators across photography, film, music, writing and performance, it argues that GenAI systems trained on copyrighted work without permission threaten visibility, livelihoods and sustainability. Data from the AOP shows sharp income declines, with less licensed and commissioned images year- on-year. Filmmakers face similar pressures as GenAI enters markets without clear regulation. AOP CEO Isabelle Doran says GenAI ‘mimics human originality’ while eroding creative identity and income. creatorsrightsalliance.org
MARSHALL AMPS UP RANGE
Marshall Electronics has expanded its IP camera line-up with the CV420-27X, a compact UHD model designed for IP-first, hybrid production environments. Built around an 8.5-megapixel sensor, the camera captures 3840x2160 UHD video at 60p, while also supporting a wide range of HD formats for simple integration into existing systems. The camera’s 27x optical zoom lens and strong low-light performance make it suitable for variable lighting conditions, from studios to live venues. Connectivity is firmly IP-centric, with HEVC encoding and secure SRT streaming over Ethernet. HDMI output with embedded stereo audio enables local monitoring alongside network distribution. Power, control and audio can all be delivered via
a single PoE connection, reducing cabling and simplifying installation. The CV420-27X is made to seamlessly slot into corporate AV, broadcast, live production and streaming workflows. The price hasn’t been revealed. marshall-usa.com
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