Pureraw5, the latest version of the AI-driven image processing suite from French software company, DXO Labs, will be released in mid-April 2025.
DXO Pureraw5 coming in April
Category: Latest news
Mental health charity launches photography initiative
The Mental Health Foundation is holding a photography competition for the launch of the new ‘Community’ category in its Positive Mental Health Image Library.
The Video and Photography Show goes to London for 2025
After ten years, the big annual UK photography event, the Photography and Video Show, is moving from the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre to London Excel, starting on Saturday, 8th March and running until Tuesday, 11th. But don’t worry if you prefer the Midlands venue, the plan is to alternate between London and Birmingham in future years.
If you aren’t familiar with the Photography and Video Show, it’s not just a camera show where you can touch and try the latest gear, though over 250 brands are represented in one way or another. There are also seminars and talks, with more than 25 guest photographers and filmmakers lined up at the time of writing. There are also special creativity areas as a part of the Creator Con, including talks and presentations by leading content creators.
A flavour of the Photography and Video Show
The usual big brands, like Canon, Sony, Nikon, OM System, Adobe, Pentax, Tamron, Sigma, Fujifilm, Epson, and so on, will be there, along with many other large and small firms showing their accessories and services.
The show takes place just after the big CP+ trade show in Japan, so lots of new cameras, lenses and other exciting new products unveiled there will be shown in London during the event, for the first time.
Many of the publishers of photography magazines will be there, hopefully with some great subscription deals. We also hope the big gear retailers, including Camera World, LCE, and WEX, will be battling each other on great show-price deals.
If you are sure of going, it’s best to purchase your tickets online and book any seminars or talks in advance.
For more about the show, check out the official Photography and Video Show website.
Tamron adds optical image stabilisation to Sony E-Mount 70-180mm f/2.8
This autumn, Tamron will start shipping a VC G2 version of its popular Sony E-Mount tele-zoom, the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD. The updated lens is called the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2. The big news is that the new lens now has in-lens ‘VC vibration compensation’, or Optical Image Stabilisation, missing from the current lens.
Tamron’s 70-180mm f/2.8 is an interesting design, which has been around for three years. It’s not a legacy DSLR lens; it’s mirrorless through and through. It’s an attractive a zoom range and even more attractive for its f/2.8 constant maximum aperture. It’s also relatively small and light, and more affordable than some alternative lenses with a similar optical specification.
From an industry viewpoint, the 70-180 is also interesting because, earlier this year, Nikon announced an own-branded version of the lens, the Nikon Z 70-180mm f2.8. Nikon is remaining silent, but there is no denial that Tamron makes the Nikon version, for Nikon.
The new G2 version has a number of improvements, besides the addition of VC, including:
- Closer minimum focusing from 0.85m to 0.3m
- Revamped optical design (though no specific details were provided)
- Compatibility with Tamron’s Lens Utility software apps
Firm pricing and availability are to be confirmed.
Official press release:
Development Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 for Sony E-mount
Press release 2023-08-07 12:00
The Transcontinenta UK Ltd., distributor for Tamron UK and Ireland, announces the development of the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065), a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras.
The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 marks the further evolution of the first-generation model that earned high acclaim in the marketplace and incorporates several enhancements. Leading the list of improvements of the new G2 lens is the incorporation of Tamron’s proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism. The lens maintains the maneuverability of class-leading compact size and weight while enabling shooting with greater stability.
The optical design has been revamped from the first-generation 70-180mm F/2.8 and achieves uncompromising high image quality across the entire zoom range. Tamron also shortened the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) at the wide end to 0.3m compared to the first-generation 0.85m, enabling users to enjoy unique photographic expressions distinctive to the lens.
Additionally, the new 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 zoom features Tamron’s renowned VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism enabling high-speed, high-precision auto-focusing that performs well whether shooting stills or video. The new 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 zoom also supports the dedicated Tamron Lens Utility™ and Tamron Lens Utility Mobile™ apps that were developed in-house by Tamron. The software can be used to customize functions based on various shooting styles for still photography and video. The new lens design improves operability and provides scratch resistance. This single lens combines profound maneuverability and practicality that is worthy of the second-generation G2 badge and will deliver shooting experiences that make a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens even more enjoyable.
Product Highlights
• Even with VC image stabilization, the lens is just 156.5mm long and weighs only 855g
• Revamped optical design delivers truly superb performance at all focal lengths
• VXD provides high-speed and high-precision AF with vastly improved subject tracking
• Equipped with Tamron’s proprietary VC mechanism
• Achieves MOD of 0.3m at 70mm and 0.85m at 180mm
• Proprietary software tool Tamron Lens Utility for lens function customization
• Additional features for greater convenience
• User-friendly features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)
• Compatible with many camera-specific features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF
• 67mm filter size, same as most other Tamron lenses for mirrorless cameras
Availability and price
The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065), for Sony-E mount full frame cameras will be available from Tamron dealers in the UK and Ireland in the fall 2023. The exact date and recommended retail price will be announced in due course.
About Tamron Co., Ltd
Tamron offers a wide range of original optical products, from interchangeable lenses for digital cameras to various optical devices for consumers and OEMs. They produce optical products that contribute to a variety of industries, and will continue to apply their rich creativity and leading technical capabilities to various industrial fields. Furthermore, Tamron is fully aware of its responsibility to the environment and strives to contribute to the preservation of the natural environment in all of its business activities.
Optical Product Line-up
Interchangeable lenses for mirrorless and DSLR cameras, surveillance camera lenses, FA and machine vision lenses, videoconferencing lenses, camera modules, automotive lenses, digital still camera lenses, camcorder lenses, drone lenses and medical lenses.
Topics: Photo • Video
Tamron website: https://www.tamron.eu
Benro previews its Cyanbird travel tripod
The DPNow quick summary:
Benro’s latest Cyanbird hybrid carbon fibre and alloy travel tripod only weighs a smidgen above a kilo, goes up to 1.55m in height , and folds down to just 46cm in length and 6cm in width. It also has an Arca-Swiss compatible head. Here’s the press release with more details:
PRESS RELEASE
Welcome to Benro’s newest and most visually stunning compact tripod!
Easy on the eye, easy to carry, engineered to deliver a robust performance.
Wolverhampton 1st August – Benro announces the arrival of the Cyanbird Tripod. Legend has it that a Cyan Bird was strong and dexterous whilst transforming into a stunning auspicious creature – need we say more about this latest tripod design!
Compact, lightweight, sturdy and striking – the Benro Cyanbird is a travel-friendly tripod kit that will be the perfect companion for your photographic adventures and content creation.
The Cyanbird boasts ocean blue anodised castings with satin aluminium lever leg locks, while arch-profile shaped legs wrap around the centre column giving the Cyanbird a folded diameter of just 6cm. The legs are made up of carbon top tubes and aluminium lower leg sections – carbon fibre for the top section because it saves weight and, well, it looks amazing!
There is a weight hook at the bottom of the centre column, while the upper section of the centre column contains three ¼” accessory mounts. The centre column can also be split so that the tripod can be used at a minimum height of just 17cm.
The kit includes the Arca-compatible N00P ball head with a single-action lock knob for fast and easy operation, while the quick-release platform can be panned independently of the main ball lock for precise camera positioning.
Don’t be fooled by the Cyanbird’s looks, it’s a serious tripod that weighs just 1.05kg, will support up to 4kg, and can reach 155cm high while being able to fold down to just 46cm, making it easy to store in your backpack or camera bag. Perfect for the photographer that travels or the traveller who photographs!
The Cyanbird includes a ‘roll-up’ padded carry case, providing easy access to your tripod and any other gear you store inside.
Don’t settle for less than the best. Upgrade to the beautiful Benro Cyanbird Tripod TCBH15N00P tripod kit today!
Key Features
- Compact and easy to carry – weighs just 1.05kg and folds down to just 46cm
- Maximum operating height 155cm, minimum height 17cm
- Narrow profile when folded – just 6cm diameter
- Aluminium flip-leg locks are quick to use and strong.
- Two section splittable centre column
- Hybrid carbon fibre & aluminium leg construction able to support up to 4kg
- Single action, Arca-compatible ball head with panning quick-release platform.
- New ocean blue finish
Stock will be available in UK and Ireland photographic retailers from 1st September 2023.
Please visit https://uk.benroeu.com/ for stockist information and details of the full Benro support range.
Price SRP Inc VAT £235.00
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Megadap adds ETZ21 Pro Sony E lens to Nikon Z mount adapter with AF functionality
Megadap, which previously produced a motorised adapter enabling Leica M lenses to be mounted and autofocused on Nikon Z bodies, had produced a Sony E-mount lens to Nikon Z-mount adapter.
Thanks to the deeper flange/back distance afforded by Sony E-mount lenses, there is enough space for an adapter to fit between the back of a Sony E-Mount lens and the flange of a Nikon Z body lens mount., and retain focusing to infinity. Megadap has incorporate the necessary electronics to enable E-Mount lenses to communicate with the host Nikon Z body, enabling auto-focusing of the lens by the camera.
Compatibility with both APS-C and Full Frame NIkon Z bodies is provided by Megadap. The company says that the adapter works with most E-mount lenses, but warns Viltrox and Yongnuo brand lenses may not work.
The adapter, called a ETZ21 Pro, is available now, with free international shipping, priced US$249
For more details, see the Megadap product page for the ETZ21 Pro
Tamron to release Nikon Z 35-150 f/2-2.8 Di III VXD
DPNow quick summary:
Tamron will release a Nikon Z-mount 35-150mm f/2-2.8 zoom this Autumn.
35 to 150mm is a very unusual focal length range for a modern zoom lens.Tamron produced a Sony E-mount version of this lens three years ago. One does wonder who Tamron’s target customer is. Maybe their new Nikon Z-mount version of this lens offers a clue in its, also unusual, f/2-2/8 maximum aperture. So, what we have is a bright/fast moderate wide angle to moderate telephoto zoom.
Tamron says their new 35-150 f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is suitable for portrait photography, and with the classic portraiture focal length being around 80-100mm, we’d agree with that. They also suggest that the lens is aimed at travel photography. That statement is less convincing with the severe limitation of 35mm at the wide end. The lens also weighs over a kilo. Meanwhile, Tamron makes the curious claim that 35-150 f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is the ‘world’s first F2-2.8 fast aperture zoom lens’; Samyang beat Tamron to it when they launched their own 35-150 f/2-2.8 back in April, though that was for a Sony mount version.
No optical image stabilisation is offered with the Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD.
Press release:
Development of the Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD for Nikon Z-mount
Press release 2023-07-25 13:00
The Transcontinenta UK Ltd., distributor for Tamron UK and Ireland, announces the development of the Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD A058z for the Nikon Z-mount.
The 35-150mm F2-2.8 covers wide-angle to telephoto and is ideal for both travel and portrait photography. It is the first1 zoom lens for Nikon Z-mount cameras to offer a maximum wide-open aperture of F2, allowing you to capture magnificent vistas and tall buildings at 35mm and dynamic close-ups at 150mm.
With its high level of performance in a wide range of shooting conditions, this fast lens is ideal for trips to create photographic works. In addition, by incorporating the VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focusing mechanism, the lens offers very fast and high-precision autofocus for a fast lens. It also incorporates a new design for improved operability and ergonomic comfort.
Incorporating the most commonly used focal lengths, from wide angle and standard to medium and telephoto, in a single lens allows seamless shooting without the need to change lenses. This is particularly useful for portraiture, where a sense of rhythm is essential, and allows the user to capture outstanding shots without losing the model’s fleeting expression.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- The world’s first F2-2.8 fast-aperture zoom lens
- Versatile zoom range provides seamless shooting from wide-angle 35mm to telephoto 150mm
- Outstanding optical performance throughout the zoom range
- Fast, quiet VXD linear motor mechanism for high-speed and high-precision autofocus
- Expanded versatility with excellent close-range shooting performance
- TAMRON Lens UtilityTM software and Android app expands the possibilities of photo and video shooting
- Moisture-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating, and Hood Locking Mechanism for greater convenience
Availability and price
The Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD A058z for Nikon Z-mount cameras will be available from Tamron dealers in the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands in the fall 2023. The exact date and recommended retail price will be announced in due course.
About Tamron Co., Ltd.
Tamron offers a wide range of original optical products, from interchangeable lenses for digital cameras to various optical devices for consumers and OEMs. We produce optical products that contribute to a variety of industries, and we will continue to apply our rich creativity and leading technical capabilities to various industrial fields. Furthermore, Tamron is fully aware of its responsibility to the environment and strives to contribute to the preservation of the natural environment in all of its business activities.
Optical Product Line-up:
Interchangeable lenses for mirrorless and DSLR cameras, surveillance camera lenses, FA and machine vision lenses, videoconferencing lenses, camera modules, automotive lenses, digital still camera lenses, camcorder lenses, drone lenses and medical lenses.
Tamron Europe’s website
Mitakon 200mm f/4 Macro unveiled by Shenyang Zhongyi Optical
DPNow quick summary:
Designed for full-frame cameras and available in Sony FE, Canon RF, Canon EF, Nikon Z, Nikon F, Fuljifilm G, Leica L, and Hasselblad XCD mounts, this latest release from Shenyang Zhongyi Optical is a 200mm f/4 is a (manual) close-focusing (0.48m, or working distabce of 25.6cm) medium telephoto lens, with an integrated Arca Swiss compatible tripod mount foot. It weighs 1.3kg. Price is $499.
Press Release
To Be Released on 21st July 2023
Introducing Mitakon 200mm f/4 Macro Lens: Zoom In from Afar – The Power of a Unique Focal Length
Shenyang China, 21st July 2023 – Zhongyi Optics (ZY Optics), the leading Chinese manufacturer of camera lenses, proudly unveils the Mitakon 200mm F/4 Macro Lens, poised to redefine the realm of macro photography with its exemplary features and exceptional capabilities.
Explore the beauty of the macro world with the Mitakon 200mm F/4 Macro Lens! This manual focus lens exhibits an exceptional working distance, boasting a reproduction ratio of 1:1. Prepare to delve into the intricate details, capturing life-size reproduction of subjects on the camera’s image sensor.
Behind the lens lies a meticulously crafted assembly of 11 elements organized into seven groups. Among them, three Extraordinary Dispersion (ED) lenses, three ultra-high index elements, and a single extra-high transmission lens. Together they work in unison to eliminate chromatic aberration, delivering true-to-life colors and impeccable image quality. The refined nine-bladed aperture diaphragm ensures smooth bokeh, adding a touch of magic to your every shot.
Key Features
A Unique Focal Length Providing Unmatched Telephoto Capabilities
The Mitakon 200mm F/4 transcends the boundaries of macro photography, transforming into a potent 200mm telephoto lens that breathes life into distant subjects. Witness breathtaking clarity and remarkable background separation as your compositions come alive.
Exceptional Working Distance
The Mitakon 200mm F/4 was designed to offer an exceptional working distance of 25.6cm (10.08 inches), providing photographers with the freedom to explore new perspectives. From stealthy wildlife shots to exquisite close-ups of delicate insects, our lens offers the unique ability to capture subjects in frame magnificently from a distance, ensuring minimal disturbance.
Every Detail Matters
The 1x magnification captures small objects in intricate details with precision and allows for life-size reproduction of subjects on the camera’s image sensor. The Mitakon 200mm F/4 ensures that no detail goes unnoticed.
Advanced Apochromatic (APO) Technology
The Mitakon 200mm F/4 lens is equipped with advanced apochromatic (APO) technology which easily eliminates the dreaded chromatic aberration, or in other words, purple fringing. Experience true-to-life colors and pristine image quality!
Arca Swiss Lens Support
With the Arca Swiss Lens Support, photographers can achieve superior stability and secure mounting of the Mitakon 200mm F/4 lens. The support system is designed to seamlessly integrate with Arca Swiss-compatible tripod heads and quick-release plates, ensuring a firm and reliable connection between the lens and the camera setup.
Pricing and Availability
The Mitakon 200mm f/4 Macro Lens is available at an exceptional price of just USD 499, making precision macro photography accessible to all. It will be available for purchase through Zhong Yi Optics’ official webstore as well as authorized resellers. Customers can place their orders immediately, as the product is ready to ship. (https://zyoptics.net/)
Specifications
| Name | Mitakon 200mm F/4 1x APO |
| Sensor Size | Full Frame |
| Aperture | F/4-F/32 |
| Elements/Groups | 11 Elements in 7 Groups |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Angle of View | 12.5° |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 1’7” (0.48m) |
| Maximum Magnification | 1x |
| Filter Thread | 67mm |
| Size (Diameter* Height) | ~ Φ3” x 7” ( Φ75mm*186mm ) |
| Weight | ~2.86lbs (1300g) |
| Mount | F, EF, FE, RF, Z, GFX, L, XCD |
| Focus Mode | Manual |
About Zhongyi Optics (ZY Optics)
Shenyang Zhongyi Optical and Electronic Company (ZY Optics) is a leading Chinese camera lens & adapters manufacturer. We currently manufacture and distribute lenses and lens turbo adapters under the brand name of ‘Mitakon’ & ‘Zhongyi’.
Introduction Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdcF_28ZeD4
Product Page:
https://zyoptics.net/product/mitakon-200mm-f-4-1x-macro-lens/
For more information about ZY Optics and our product information, visit