Category Archives: news

Sony launches ZV-E10 vlogging camera with 24.2-megapixel sensor

Sony has recently launched the Sony ZV-E10 mirrorless camera in India. It is the second camera of the ZV-series after the Sony ZV-1, which was launched in 2020. This series camera is targeted towards video content creators, and by launching the Sony ZV-E10, the company has pumped up the concept of vlogging to next level. This is because the Sony AV-E10 displays various vlog-specific features. While some of the features have been acquired from Sony ZV-1, such as the Bokeh Switch button and Product Showcase setting, there are some new features as well enclosed in the Sony ZV-E10.


Unlike the ZV-1, this vlogging camera comes with interchangeable lens options. Now consumers can attach the company’s E-mount prime lens, telephoto lens, zoom lens, macro lens, ultra-wide lens, or fish-eye lens to the camera.


Sony ZV-E10 features a 3-inch side flip-out touchscreen LCD panel. It is armored with a 24.2-megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor. It can shoot 4K videos at 30fps, and Full HD videos up to 120fps. It comes with an 11fps continuous shooting supported by the camera. The real-time eye tracking feature works for both – animals and humans – while shooting images.


Sony ZV-E10 has a dedicated button to change between Slow and Quick mode, Photo and Video mode. This allows users to easily shoot slow motion videos without going into settings manually. A standard and active mode image stabilization is present in the camera for taking firm video footages.


One of the highlights of the latest vlogging camera is that users can livestream without any hassle. Users can livestream directly through the camera using the USB-C cable attached to their desktop, or a laptop. The camera also has headphone and microphone ports.


The camera comes in two colour variants – black and white. The white colour option is new and looks beautiful. The camera body is priced at Rs. 59,490 for body only and Rs. 69,990 with Sony E 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ OSS lens.


Fujifilm India appoints Koji Wada as the new MD

Koji Wada stepped into the role of Managing Director for Fujifilm India, the imaging technology company, as of June 29, 2021. He has taken over from his predecessor, Haruto Iwata, who will now lead the operations in the Asia-Pacific region of Singapore as Managing Director. In his new role, Wada will spearhead Fujifilm’s operations and business strategy in India focusing on organizational growth and profitability with an integrated approach towards sales, marketing, and business policies.


Wada has been contributing to the businesses across corporate offices in Japan, Myanmar, Thailand and India. He brings a vast experience of over 20 years. Before taking over his role as managing director, he was responsible for leading the medical business of the company in India as a general manager.


‘I had joined Fujifilm in 2001 and it has truly been an incredible journey for me,’ Wada said. ‘During my tenure at the company, I have had the opportunity to work with an excellent team of skilled and motivated professionals. As I transition into the new role, I am looking forward to collaborating with the teams across various divisions to take the company to newer heights. With India as a market thriving with opportunities, we will continue with our endeavor of “Never Stop” adding value to the lives of consumers and stakeholders.’


This is Wada’s second stint in India. He was marketing manager of PI, EI, RM for Fujifilm India in 2007. Post that Wada was appointed as the secretary to Global CEO Shigetaka Komori.


Later, Wada was made the general manager for Fujifilm Thailand in 2014 and then managing director for Fujifilm Myanmar in 2017. In 2019, he was appointed as the senior manager of ME and director of FFIN.

Canon Announces New Firmware Updates For Cinema EOS Cameras, EF- EOS R 0.71x Adapter and Compact-Servo Lenses

Canon recently announced the launch of new firmware updates for three Cinema EOS Cameras, EF – EOS R 0.71x adapter and two Cinema lenses. The EOS C500 Mark II, EOS C300 Mark III, EOS C70 cameras, EF – EOS R 0.71x adapter for the EOS C70 and Canon Compact Servo lenses will receive highly requested updates with the new firmware arriving in the coming July.


EOS C500 Mark II and EOS C300 Mark III feature updates

Both the EOS C500 Mark II and EOS C300 Mark III will receive updates that will optimize on-set workflow and overall usability. To further enhance monitoring and external recording flexibility, the 12G-SDI output will support FullHD and 2K resolutions with the new update. Simultaneous MON.Out and HDMI outputs will also be supported, allowing for increased video outputs on set. Canon’s new “XC Protocol” that supports remote camera control usage with Canon’s RC-IP100 controller will also be added. 1.8x Anamorphic de-squeeze option will also be added to existing ratios, increasing support for Anamorphic lenses.


EOS C500 Mark II New Anamorphic Recording Modes

In addition, the C500 Mark II will gain two additional Anamorphic recording resolutions: 4192 x 3140 (4:3) and 3768 x 3140 (6:5). These resolutions will be available during Full Frame Sensor Mode in Cinema RAW light recording, broadening its abilities for 4K anamorphic recordings.


EOS C70 firmware update

The recently launched EOS C70 will also receive feature improvements in response to user feedback. The HDMI Out will be updated to support View Assistance for external monitoring. Seven EF lenses will also receive full Dual Pixel CMOS AF and metadata support when used with the EF – EOS R 0.71x adapter. This update will also allow users to turn off the AF Frame when the adapter is used and the camera is not in AF mode. Lastly, a 2x option is added to Magnification, allowing for flexibility during frame magnification.


EF- EOS R 0.71x Adapter updated with support for Seven Additional EF lenses

Accompanying the EOS C70’s update is the new firmware for the EF – EOS R 0.71x adapter. This new update will add support for seven new EF lenses. New models supported are:


EF16-35mm F4L IS USM

EF16-35mm F2.8L II USM

EF24-105mm F4L USM

EF70-200mm F2.8L IS II USM

EF70-200mm F2.8L IS III USM

EF70-200mm F4L IS USM

EF70-200mm F4L IS II USM


The firmware updates allow the camera to recognize and support the new seven lenses fully. This includes accurate conversion of F-number values, metadata, Auto Exposure and Auto Iris functions as well as Dual Pixel CMOS AF operation across large areas of the frame. Lastly, the firmware also allows for peripheral illumination correction function to be utilized.


CN-E18-80mm T4.4L IS KAS S and CN-E70-200mm T4.4L IS KAS S support for EOS R5

Rounding up the firmware updates will be a new firmware to improve usability on the CN-E18-80mm T4.4L IS KAS S and CN-E70-200mm T4.4L IS KAS S compact servo lenses. The new firmware update will allow both lenses to communicate with Canon’s EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera, a combination that has been widely requested by many users. This will result in functions such as metadata, optical correction, autofocus, auto exposure and image stabilisation functions being supported, allowing the capabilities of the lens to be used with the EOS R5. All firmware updates except for CN-E18-80mm T4.4L IS KAS S and CN-E70-200 T4.4L IS KAS S are expected to be available in July.

Canon Celebrates 50th Anniversary of its First Interchangeable Lens for SLR Cameras to employ an Aspherical Lens Element

Canon recently announced that 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the release in 1971 of the FD55mm f/1.2AL, the company’s first lens for interchangeable-lens SLR cameras that employs an aspherical lens element. Aspherical lens elements are not only used in the company’s interchangeable-lens SLR cameras, but also broadcast lenses, semiconductor lithography systems, telescope mirrors and a wide variety of optical products.


Aspherical lenses possess a curvature that are ideal for gathering light at a single point. From the f/2.8L IS USM zoom lens series for professional and enthusiast users—the RF15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM (released in September 2019), RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM (released in September 2019) and RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM (released in November 2019)—to the RF28-70mm f/2L USM (released in December 2018) which realizes a fast f/2 aperture across the entire zoom range, Canon’s aspherical lenses help reduce various types of aberration and achieve high image quality.


The inherent characteristics of spherical lenses result in the lens being unable to focus parallel rays of light in their complete form at a single common point. Due to the lens’ spherical-shaped surface, blurring of captured images—known as spherical aberration—and other optical aberrations tend to occur in the captured image. In order to correct spherical aberration, multiple spherical lenses must be used and placed in a specific configuration. However, thanks to their unique properties, the same results can be achieved using only a single aspherical lens. In 1963, Canon embarked upon a program of sophisticated lens research and development in order to develop this “dream lens” that could focus all incident light on a single point and create a faithful, clear image.


In order to mass-produce aspherical lenses, Canon needed processing technology that was precise to within less than 0.1 micrometers1, as well as high-precision measuring devices that could measure to within 0.01 micrometers. Through repeated cycles of design and processing methods, the company finally succeeded in creating the technology needed to mass-produce aspherical lenses. In March 1971, Canon’s first interchangeable-lens SLR camera employing an aspherical lens was released—the FD55mm f/1.2AL.


Then, in 1973, Canon further enhanced the precision of its lens processing technology with the development of the ALG-Z nanometer2level ultra-high-precision aspherical lens grinder. The next leap forward happened in 1985, when the company successfully implemented the large-diameter glass mold (GMo) aspherical lens element into the New FD35-105mm f/3.5-4.5 (released in December 1985), the world’s first interchangeable lens for SLR cameras to include a GMo aspherical lens.


Ever since, the technologies used to form and measure aspherical lenses have played a vital part in Canon’s efforts to realize high-performance lenses.


Going forward, Canon will continue to polish its optical technologies in order to create products and technologies that help meet our customers’ wide-ranging needs.

Canon announced the launch of Three RF Mount Lenses and in progress is the New EOS R3 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera

Canon India recently announced that Canon is currently developing the new EOS R3 full-frame mirrorless camera, which will feature a newly developed 35mm full-frame, backlit, stacked CMOS sensor and a DIGIC X image processor. The new camera is designed to provide high-level basic functionality required to meet the needs of professional and enthusiast users.


Canon also announced the launch of three brand new RF lenses: the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM, RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM & RF600mm f/4L IS USM. The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM is the world’s first 1, medium telephoto macro lens with a maximum shooting magnification of 1.4x. The RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM super telephoto lenses are native to the RF mount and provide professional and advanced amateurs with extra reach that comes with a high level of image quality, reliability and durability.


The currently-in-development EOS R3 is based on the concept of high speed, high sensitivity and high reliability. The EOS R3 will be introduced into Canon’s line-up of professional and enthusiast cameras that includes the EOS-1D X Mark III flagship DSLR camera (released in February 2020) and the EOS 5 series, including the EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera (released in July 2020). The EOS R3 aims to provide professional-level quality for both stills and video capture, even for moving subjects.


The EOS R3 is the first EOS series camera to be equipped with Canon’s newly developed 35mm full- frame backlit stacked CMOS sensor that makes possible high-speed readout. The camera also features a DIGIC X image processor for high-speed image processing that realises high-speed continuous shooting of up to 30 frames-per-second 1 (FPS) with AF/AE tracking when using the electronic shutter. In addition, the camera significantly reduces image warping, a common challenge with electronic shutters, and is also capable of capturing moving subjects with reduced noise in such low-light environments as indoor areas or night time scenes.


Alongside Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology by which each pixel on the image sensor possesses both image capture and phase-detect AF functionality, thus enabling high-speed, high-accuracy and wide- range AF—the EOS R3 uses an algorithm that employs deep learning technology that enables improved head and eye detection for human subjects as well as a new capability to detect subject torsos. Thanks to this enhanced performance, the cameras autofocus system provides high performance subject tracking, even during portrait photography and in scenarios with frequent subject movement such as sports. Development is also underway to enable detection of additional subject types.


In addition, the EOS R3 is Canon’s first digital camera to feature Eye Control AF 2 functionality. When shooting still images and looking through the viewfinder, this new feature enables the AF frame to adjust according to detected movement of the user’s eye, making possible smoother shooting with quick focus when transitioning between subjects. The EOS R3 answers the sophisticated needs of professionals by providing dust and water resistance developed with each iteration of the EOS-1 series, body design with integrated vertical hand-grip, reliability and ease of use, as well as compatibility with Canon’s Mobile File Transfer 3, announced alongside the EOS R3, which supports high-speed workflows.


With the goal of expanding the possibilities of imaging for users, the EOS R system will continue to expand its line-up of impressive cameras and RF lenses.

GoPro launches The Remote and announces new firmware update for Hero9 Black

HERO9 Black’s new v1.5 firmware includes:


  • Up to 30% faster wireless transfer of content from the action camera to the GoPro app

  • Developed HyperSmooth 3.0 performance in cold temperatures

  • A slo-mo shortcut slider button

  • Better GPS accuracy

  • Support for live streaming with the Max Lens Mod, bringing Max HyperSmooth and SuperView plus in-camera horizon-lock to live streaming

  • Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter support for users who want to use external mics in the Media Mod for HERO9 Black

Firmware updates are also available for HERO8 Black and GoPro MAX that increase wireless transfer speeds by up to 15% and 20%, respectively, and provide compatibility with GoPro’s new The Remote.


The Remote is a smartwatch-size accessory that can be fixed on anything from a user’s wrist to a gear strap, handlebar or rollbar. It is rugged and waterproof to 16 feet, features a large status display and glove-friendly buttons. The Remote enables convenient control of the most used camera functions, including powering on and off, mode changing and shutter button control.


The Remote can control up to five GoPro cameras simultaneously from 200 feet away. And it uses Bluetooth Low Energy for maximum battery life and easy pairing with your GoPro.


The Remote is compatible with HERO9 Black, HERO8 Black and MAX and is available on GoPro.com for $79.99, or at a 30% discount for GoPro Subscribers. It is currently available in North America only with a worldwide release coming in February 2021.


The HERO9 Black, HERO8 Black and MAX firmware updates are available on GoPro.com and via the GoPro app.

Fujifilm’s #NeverStop Attitude during tough times



The year 2020 has been challenging for the industry to say the least. But while things are starting to look up, every brand is doing their bit to bounce back to normalcy. Undoubtedly, these difficult times require an undying attitude and an appetite to look beyond the usual. Fujifilm believes that they have cracked this code as Haruto Iwata, Managing Director, Fujifilm India spoke to Bhavya Desai about their never stop attitude and more. Excerpts: 


2020 has been a challenging year to say the least. How has Fuji as a company and its people coped with the pandemic? 


The Covid-19 outbreak has an enormous impact on brands across all industries. From a decrease in the consumer confidence, restricted mobility and loss of jobs, it has caused a recession like situation with subsiding consumerism. At Fujifilm, we aim to create meaningful advancements for our customers and communities by enhancing the quality of life of people worldwide with top priority to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our employees and communities. 


To function in the new normal, we have enforced work from home, restriction/limitations on travel, complete sanitization of our offices, hygiene protocols and social distancing norms across our offices in India. Apart from these lucrative steps, we have been continuously initiating health check-ups across cities in India, especially in remote areas and associations with hospitals to drive awareness around the early detection of breast cancer amidst lockdown. 


At the community level, we have also introduced various online workshops to help our customers utilise their time and give our business a chance to forge an instant connection with them. While we are embracing a never seen before and lasting impact of Covid-19, it is important for all of us to stay positive and strong for each other. 


What has been the overall impact on the business this year and how have you mitigated this challenge? 


The occurrence of Covid-19 has changed the face of many industries and led to a stressful time. As we continue to navigate through the global pandemic, our business strategy continues to resonate with our customers as they manage through these unprecedented times.

While the first half of the year was challenging for individuals and businesses alike, we’ve witnessed a swift recovery in our business and a favourable consumer sentiment in the second half. 


With rising numbers of customers on the digital bandwagon, the key task at hand for us was to revisit our approach and make them more tech-savvy. We introduced various online workshops for camera enthusiasts with Zack Arias, Daboo Ratnani and Valentina Vee. We even conducted interactive sessions like INSTAX Doodle Art Contest to help our customers utilise their time and give our business a chance to forge an instant connection with them. 


At Fujifilm, we have always aimed at creating meaningful advancements and in the last few months, we have taken several measures to ensure safety both internally and externally.  In line with our philosophy of ‘Value from Innovation’ and our ‘Never Stop’ attitude, we will continue to showcase our unwavering commitment and never stop building on our innovations and expertise.


What is the future roadmap of the country given the current scenario of the industry? 


The pandemic has reshaped the way we live, breathe and conduct business. It has brought the global economy to a complete standstill causing challenges to businesses across sectors. Till a vaccine is found, industries are looking at solutions that can help them bounce back and we have noticed that the role of technology is absolutely critical in making this happen.


For most businesses, the key challenges are travel, fewer staff at offices and factories and lack of face to face communication. Looking at the current scenario, Industry 4.0 technologies can play an important role in the return to normalcy. 


How has been the response for Fuji products this year? Can you share the market share across the product segments (eg. mirrorless, medium format, instant cameras)? 


The Covid-19 has led to a paradigm shift in consumer behaviour. The way we work, shop and communicate with people has changed more than any other disruption; including technological ones in the recent past. While, it may not be business as usual, but our customers still depend on our products and services at large. 


Building onto our customer experience, we virtually launched our flagship camera, the X-T4 in May 2020. Thus, being the first ones in the industry to modify our product launch strategy keeping in mind our community-first approach, especially during these times. We believe that it is all about adapting your product offerings, marketing language and availability according to the business environment. The new additions, have been well received and gave a boost to our festive season sale this year.


Do you feel the strategies (eg. marketing, retail, online) adopted during these times are only isolated to the current scenario or they might get absorbed into regular business?


There is no denying that these are stressful times and the pandemic has changed the face of many industries. With most of the consumers now at home practicing social distancing, their online presence has increased as social media platforms have become the primary means of communication with others. We at Fujifilm are following a similar approach and are using social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube to disseminate valuable messages to our consumers. 


As the community moves beyond the survival mode, we believe that the digital-adoption momentum is likely to carry forward and become permanent. This inflection point is primarily shaped by two major shifts in customer behaviour i.e. the reluctance to mingle in crowded public places and higher propensity for digital adoption. 

Marketers across industries are redesigning their business models and the imaging solutions industry is no exception. Consumers are likely to opt for online shopping even after the outbreak ends and this change is being witnessed in the imaging industry as well.




What is the expectation with the new launch of the X-S10? 


With the newly launched FUJIFILM X-S10, we wanted to deliver a lightweight mirrorless camera body equipped with state-of-the-art technology to exhibit the best for our photographer community. We will be committed to our endeavours with our motto, NEVER STOP innovating to create new game-changers and contribute to the needs of our customers and partners.

  

For the X-S10 camera, we will be targetting photography journalists, semi-professionals, and expert photographers. We expect it to be a hit amongst the wedding photographers as well. Given a lot of buzz around the X-S10 camera, we’re confident that this new launch too, will replicate the success of our flagship X-T4 camera, and will garner the desired results for us. 


An empty National Park is not Good for Wildlife – Ami Vitale

Image by David Doubilet



Apart from being one of the leading Wildlife Photographers globally, over the years Ami Vitale has also taken monumental steps towards wildlife conservation. And with 2020 turning for the worst, she along with her friend Eileen Mignoni decided to start a new initiative ‘Prints for Nature’ to help those who are pushing boundaries in the frontline of the pandemic to help conservation. Bhavya Desai spoke to her to learn more. Excerpts:



Photo by Ami Vitale


What is the ‘Prints for Nature’ initiative and what was the objective behind it?


‘Prints for Natureis a fine art photographic print sale, offering collectors the chance to own work from some of the most impactful names in the photography industry and contribute to conservation. This is an independent initiative that includes over 85 renowned Fine Art and Nature Photographers who have generously donated prints for this cause. All of the net proceeds will go directly to support Conservation International’s core initiatives. I saw the need to support communities protecting wild lands and our most vulnerable species, at a time of critical need. The Covid-19 pandemic is devastating conservation efforts globally as tourism and economies have collapsed creating increasing pressure on nature. Driven by this desperation, poaching and deforestation is on the rise,I believed that by coming together, we could make an immediate impact.


In the early days of the pandemic, we were hearing heart-warming stories. It seemed that wildlife was getting a much needed break from humans and that they were thriving in the era of lockdowns. Finally, they were able to roam freely in cities and national parks! Unfortunately, the reality was much different. Tourism has been what has funded major conservation projects around the world, helping to protect wildlife, restore habitats and create awareness. When tourism crashed, so did the much needed protection for the animals and ecosystems. Contrary to popular belief, an empty national park is not a good thing for wildlife. Tourists fund conservation and they also keep poachers away.



Image by Anand Varma


How is this initiative different from your previous efforts?


In the past, I have worked on fundraising efforts on a smaller scale,but this is the first time I’ve organised a group collaborative effort with so many incredibly talented photographers. It’s been a beautiful labour of love. My dear friend and colleague Eileen Mignoni and I have been doing everything from getting sponsorships to reaching out to the photographers, curating the gallery, building the website, working out the kinks, handling customer service, answering all questions that come in and media outreach. I chose Paper and Ink Studio to do all the printing because of the impeccable quality of their work.


How important is wildlife conservation for nature and for you personally as well?


Planet Earth is the only home we have and together we have poked some holes in our shared little life raft. I want everyone to experience and benefit from the diversity of habitat and life we have today in all of its forms – from glaciers to deserts, elephants to the tiniest of ants that inhabit the earth. We must not condemn future generations to a world bereft of these experiences.What happens next is in all of our hands. Nature is resilient if we give it a chance – if we give it our time. We all have the capacity to get engaged and use our voices to make a difference. The messenger matters just as much as the message itself. Each of us will be a much more powerful voice when speaking to the people in our lives.



Image by Charlie Hamilton James


Apart from being such an inspiration to many, you’ve been constantly pushing the conservation boundaries. Where does that innate drive come from?


I believe we must first fall in love with the world around us. Love gives us the courage to make a difference. But I know it’s not just about loving this planet. Infact, that’s not going to save us. What’s going to save us is believing in the wonder of this world. Wonder allows us to go beyond the routine ways of thinking and to reimagine our future together, to reimagine a world graced by all the species that are on the edge of extinction right now.


Wonder shows us how deeply connected we are to one another and that our choices are profound in their impact. We all need to do all we can to care for the plants and critters that inhabit the earth. They are fellow travellers, and our only friends, in this cold dark universe. Our future happiness depends on them. Once you take that brave first step and allow yourself to fall in love, you open yourself to the experience of wonder. It is inexplicable and it changes everything.




Image by Sudhir Shivaram


Do you feel we are doing enough in this direction or there is still a long road ahead?


Nature sent us a strong message with this pandemic and reminded us of just how small and deeply interconnected our world is. It is a powerful moment to reimagine our relationship to nature and to one another. We need to reduce human encroachment on wildlife. If we do, we can minimise the opportunity for viruses to cross from one species to another; from animals to humans.


Today, nearly 1 million species are in danger of extinction. Our own health and destiny are intricately connected to the natural world and impacted by the loss of species. My hope is that this pandemic inspires every human being to understand this important connection.



Image by Tony Wu


What is your lasting message to all the people who read this?


I think what people need to understand is that tourism is what keeps wildlife alive in many places. When people begin travelling again, we should be travelling responsibly, to destinations that act to sustain wildlife areas, and choosing companies that put money back and are not wholly extractive.


Personally, I believe the pandemic has forced us to see how interconnected we are. While this revelation has been devastating, it’s also shown us how we are able to unite and act as individuals for the collective good. This is a moment when we can look outside ourselves and take individual action for the good of the planet. I am personally thinking about a different approach to my own work and my travel.


Travel is important, but I know that we must change how we travel. We can alleviate some of the environmental stress of travel simply by keeping more of our adventures local. If you do go abroad, rather than trying to see it all, slow down and engage with one place at a time. Instead of travelling to many countries, think about spending time in one place in that same time frame. When we take the time to slow down and truly build real relationships with people and places, an authentic connection is created.