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Digital SLR Cameras

Panasonic Launches the new LUMIX GH5S at CABSAT 2018

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Panasonic has introduced the new Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera LUMIX GH5S with expanded video recording capability and enhanced image quality in low light during CABSAT 2018. Designed and developed for professional filmmakers, the LUMIX GH5S achieves the highest-ever sensitivity and image quality in the history of LUMIX cameras.

The new 10.2-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor with Dual Native ISO Technology and Venus Engine faithfully reproduce even dark parts of the image, allowing a maximum ISO 51200 high sensitivity recording. This sensor is a multi-aspect type with a sufficient margin for realizing the same angle of view at the same focal length in 4:3, 17:9, 16:9 and 3:2 aspect ratios. The sensor also supports photo shooting in 14-bit RAW format, providing higher flexibility for professional RAW development workflows.

Hitesh Ojha, Deputy General Manager, AVD, Panasonic, said, “The launch of the LUMIX GH5S is a testament to our commitment of offering future-proof products and solutions that our customers will truly appreciate.  We are proud to be at the forefront of innovation and technology, especially with the growing digital revolution currently taking place in the industry.  We are optimistic that this cutting-edge camera model will strengthen will the company’s position as the leading consumer electronics brand in the region and exceed the expectations of the customers across UAE.”

Its predecessor, the LUMIX GH5 achieved 4K 60p / 50p video recording for the first time in the world as a digital mirrorless camera, and now the new LUMIX GH5S again establishes a milestone by achieving the world’s first 4K 60p / 50p video recording in Cinema 4K (4096×2160). It is also capable of internal 4:2:2 10-bit video recording, which is a color subsampling commonly used in filmmaking, for faithful color reproduction.

The LUMIX GH5S also records 4:2:2 10-bit 400-Mbps All-Intra in Cinema 4K 24p and 4K 30p/25p/24p and 200-Mbps All-Intra in Full-HD. There is no time limit for both Full-HD and 4K video recording. The LUMIX GH5S complies with 4K HDR video with Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) mode in Photo Style. A low-bit-rate recording mode 4K HEVC for HLG is also available, which enables playback on AV equipment compatible with the HEVC compression format, such as Panasonic 4K HDR TVs.

The VFR (Variable Frame Rate) lets users record overcranked / undercranked video in C4K/4K (60 fps, maximum 2.5x slower in 24p) and FHD (240 fps, maximum 10x slower in 24p). A V-LogL is pre-installed in the camera, so users do not need to purchase a Software Upgrade Key separately. And the LUMIX GH5S is compatible with Time Code IN/OUT. By setting up time code synchronization through the flash synchro terminal and bundled BNC converter cable with a BNC cable, it is easy to carry out non-linear timeline editing of footage shot with multiple cameras. LINE input is also supported by a 3.5mm microphone jack.

DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology and ultra high-speed digital signal processing achieve fast auto focusing of approximately 0.07 sec and 12 (AFS) / 8 (AFC) fps in 12-bit RAW and 11 (AFS) / 7 (AFC) fps in 14-bit RAW high-speed burst shooting. A total of 225 focus areas, Tracking AF, 1-area AF and Pinpoint AF are available for precise focusing. The 4K PHOTO enables 60 fps high-speed capture in approximately 8-megapixel equivalent resolution.

As a camera that excels in low-light shooting, the LUMIX GH5S boasts -5EV luminance detection performance with Low Light AF thanks to the higher sensitivity and optimized tuning of the sensor. Live View Boost is another practical feature that makes it possible to check the composition even in total darkness by boosting the sensitivity just for live view. Night Mode displays menu interface in red, which is gentle to the eyes in dark situations. The magnification ratio in MF assist is increased from the conventional 10x to 20x, which is convenient especially for astronomical photography.

In order to make the GH5S tough enough to withstand even heavy field use, it is composed of a magnesium alloy full die-cast front/rear frame and is not only splashproof and dustproof but also freezeproof down to -10 degrees. The GH5S is equipped with a double SD Memory Card slot, compatible with the high-speed, high-capacity UHS-II and Video Speed Class 60. Users can flexibly choose the recording method from Relay Recording, Backup Recording or Allocation Recording. The HDMI Type A terminal is provided.

The GH5S has a large LVF (Live View Finder) with a stunningly high magnification ratio of approximately 1.52x/0.76x (35mm camera equivalent) providing smooth display at 120 fps. A high-precision, high-speed OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) display features 3,680K-dot resolution and 100% field of view. In addition to dual dials, an omni-directional joystick enables more intuitive and flexible operation.

The GH5S includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. Compatibility with Bluetooth 4.2 (called BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy) enables constant connection with a smartphone/tablet with minimum power consumption. For Wi-Fi, 5GHz (IEEE802.11ac) can be selected in addition to the conventional 2.4GHz (IEEE 802.11b/g/n) for an even more secure and stable connection.

For extended battery life and a more stable hold, the Battery Grip DMW-BGGH5 (sold separately) is available. The XLR Microphone Adaptor DMW-XLR1 (sold separately) allows high-res sound recording with an external XLR microphone. The new LUMIX GH5S brings further innovation to creative workflows with new heights in recording low-light, high-quality images that greatly expand the possibilities for video creators.

Digital Cameras

Canon Adds New Cinema RAW Light Recording Formats to EOS C500 Mark II Via Firmware Update

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Canon Europe has announced the release of a new free-of-charge firmware update for the EOS C500 Mark II, further enhancing the camera’s professional functionality. The firmware update adds 12-bit Cinema RAW Light formats: LT (Light), ST (Standard) and HQ (High Quality), improving workflow flexibility and providing more options post-production. Previously made available for the EOS R5 C and EOS C70, this highly requested feature allows users to select a scalable range of internal RAW recording data rates that either further enhance the fidelity of the sensor output or reduce file sizes – all while maintaining the high-quality 12-bit colour information.

The EOS C500 Mark II features a 5.9K full-frame sensor, internal RAW recording, interchangeable lens mount and highly configurable modular design. The camera is a popular choice for television and cinematic productions due to its impressive image quality, extensive connectivity, and compact body. 

Aron Randhawa, Senior Product Specialist at Canon Europe, said, “Cinema RAW Light is continually evolving and has a clear advantage over heavily compressed formats, especially for colour grading and VFX pipelines. All three scalable new formats are 12-bit, even at higher frame rates, with no chroma subsampling, enabling cinematographers to unleash the full capability of their production camera.”

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Digital SLR Cameras

Sony Launches FE 24-50mm F2.8 G, a Compact, Large Aperture F2.8 G Lens with High-Performance Optics

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Sony Middle East and Africa has announced the release of its new compact 35mm full-frame compatible α (Alpha) E-mount lens, FE 24-50mm F2.8 G (product name SEL2450G) standard zoom with F2.8 maximum aperture over the entire zoom range. Despite its small and lightweight body, it achieves the high-resolution performance and beautiful bokeh that can be expected from a large aperture G Lens with F2.8. It covers a focal length of 24 mm to 50 mm, allowing you to capture everything from still images such as everyday snapshots, and portraits to video shooting, all in high quality but with a design that will easily fit in the smallest of kit bags.

With the latest optical and mechanical design, the dimensions have been kept compact with a filter diameter of φ67 mm, maximum diameter of 74.8 mm, length of 92.3 mm, and weight of approximately 440 g. Sharp and detailed images at all focal lengths are achieved thanks to the arrangement of four aspherical lenses and two pieces of ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, so that aberrations such as chromatic aberration, are reduced, achieving high-resolution performance from the centre to the corner. FE 24-50mm F2.8 G uses an 11-blade circular aperture which together with the optimisation of spherical aberration provides the beautiful, soft and smooth bokeh that is characteristic of the G Lens series. It has a minimum shooting distance of 0.19 m (AF) at the wide end and a maximum magnification of 0.30 x (AF) offering high-quality close-up shooting.

The quality is evident through the AF (auto focus) whereby, equipped with two linear motors, it achieves high speed, high precision, high tracking, and quiet focusing. It also supports high-speed continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking of up to 120 frames per second for the full-frame mirrorless camera Alpha 9 III. For those wanting a solid video performance, AF tracking is available for high frame rate 4K 120p or FHD 240p movie recording where critical focus control is required, plus it supports in-body Active Mode image stabilisation for steady shooting while walking. It is also compatible with the focus breathing compensation on camera bodies, allowing for high-quality video expression.

Intuitive manual focus is achieved thanks to the adoption of linear response MF which allows smooth and superior image expression. FE 24-50mm F2.8 G is equipped with user-friendly functions such as a customisable focus hold button, aperture ring, aperture click ON/OFF switch, and focus mode switch, offering high operability and comprehensive control. Plus, for further ease of use, they are designed to be dust and moisture-proof with a fluorine coating which prevents dirt from sticking to the front surface of the lens.

 The new FE 24-50mm F2.8 G will be available in the region from Q2 2024.

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Digital Cameras

Sony MEA Launches the Alpha 9 III

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Sony Middle East and Africa has introduced the new Alpha 9 III camera equipped with the world’s first full-frame global shutter image sensor.  The new global shutter full-frame image sensor enables the camera to shoot at burst speeds of up to 120 fps with no distortion or camera blackout.  By combining this innovative sensor with Sony’s most advanced AF system to date – boasting AI autofocus with up to 120 times AF/AE focus calculations per second – as well as the ability to sync flash at all shooting speeds, the Alpha 9 III opens up a new world of possibilities for professional photographers to capture that decisive moment.

The new Alpha 9 III is equipped with a newly developed world’s first global shutter full-frame stacked CMOS image sensor with approximately 24.6 effective megapixels and built-in memory, combined with the latest image processing engine BIONZ XR. It achieves blackout-free Continuous Shooting Speed with AF/AE tracking of up to approximately 120 frames per second. The new Alpha 9 III is equipped with high-density focal plane phase-detection AF. A Designated AI processing unit uses Real-time Recognition AF (autofocus) to recognise a wide variety of subjects with high precision.

By combining the high-speed performance of up to 120 frames per second with highly accurate subject recognition performance, it is possible to easily photograph decisive scenes and moments that cannot be captured with the naked eye.  The AI processing unit in the Alpha 9 III supports movies as well as stills with accurate subject form and movement recognition, providing a significant improvement in human eye recognition performance with Real-time Recognition AF and Real-time Tracking automatically recognising, tracking, and focusing on the eyes of a specified subject. The Alpha 9 III is equipped with 8.0 stops of optical 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, allowing for high-quality image rendering.

Shutter speed is freed from the limitations of conventional mechanical shutter image sensors and achieves a maximum shutter speed of 1/80000 second (1/16000 second during continuous shooting), making it possible to capture at high speed without any distortion. When a compatible Sony flash is attached, such as the HVL-F60RM2 and HVL-F46RM (sold separately), it is possible to synchronise the flash and take pictures at all shutter speeds up to 1/80000 second.

Previously, if the user released the shutter at a speed faster than the flash’s synchronisation speed, the amount of light would drop sharply, but with the full-speed flash synchronisation function, it’s now possible to photograph scenes that could not be easily captured with conventional technology. Also, when shooting stills or movies under LED lighting, the Hi Frequency Flicker function can significantly reduce high-frequency flicker problems by allowing the shutter speed to be finely adjusted to match the flicker frequency while viewing the monitor.

The Alpha 9 III features selectable release lag modes which allows the user to prioritise release lag or viewfinder/monitor display. The newly installed Pre-Capture function allows the user to go back up to 1 second and record the moment before pressing the shutter, a Continuous Shooting Speed Boost change during shooting, and enhanced burst stamina ensure that important moments are reliably captured due to a large buffer memory and increased overall system speed allow up to approximately 390 Fine JPEG images to be captured in one continuous 30 fps burst.

Customisable focus areas have been expanded to include from XS to XL instead of the previous S, M, and L sizes. The Preset Focus/Zoom function allows preset focus and zoom settings to be memorised in the camera for quick recall when needed. In addition to the existing custom white balance frame size, the user can now select other sizes as needed which allows for fine white balance adjustment after an image has been composed. The Alpha 9 III has upgraded features such as the latest AF algorithms to achieve high AF precision down to light levels as low as EV-5 in AF-S mode (ISO 100 equivalent, F2.0 lens), AF tracking for continuous shooting at F22 and a composite RAW shooting function that gives the ability to combine multiple consecutive images into a high-quality composite.

The global shutter image sensor provides distortion-free image expression for videos as well as still images. For example, the user can shoot images of nearby scenery from a fast-moving vehicle such as a car or fast-moving subjects with ease. This camera is the first in the Alpha series to be able to record 4K 120p high-frame-rate video without cropping, allowing the user to shoot at the angle of view intended. It is also possible to shoot high-resolution 4K 60p videos with 6K oversampling.

The Alpha 9 III has the image creation process S-Cinetone, created through the development of the VENICE digital cinema camera for video production, making human skin and subjects stand out beautifully, creating natural highlights. The Alpha 9 III is equipped with the latest video performance including rich gradation performance and S-Log3, and when in Log shooting mode, it can reflect and display the user’s favorite imported LUT. Alpha 9 III is compatible with the mobile app “Monitor & Control” for video creators.

Sony has listened to the voices of professional photographers and created operability and reliability that supports professional image makers. The shape of the grip is improved and ergonomically designed so that it can be easily held in the palm of the user’s hand to avoid straining the user even when wearing a telephoto lens or using it for long periods of time. The VG-C5 vertical grip (sold separately), provides the same operability and versatility as when shooting horizontally; the user can comfortably support long shooting sessions.

The grip and shutter button area share the same design as the main body, allowing image capture without feeling uncomfortable, with the same operability as the camera. The Alpha 9 III is equipped with a 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor that can be operated by touch, allowing for intuitive operation using the latest touch menu. The electronic viewfinder uses a 9.44 million-dot Quad XGA OLED and achieves high visibility with the same brightness as the α7R V and a magnification of approximately 0.90x. Also, a custom button is placed on the front of the camera, and the continuous shooting speed can be changed by operating the custom button assigned with Continuous Shooting Speed Boost with the finger holding the grip, allowing for highly immediate operations. It supports professional photographers when shooting in all environments.

New features for the Alpha 9 III include a playback image filter that allows the user to efficiently select a large number of images using high-speed continuous shooting and a function menu that can be used even during image playback, strongly supporting professional workflows from shooting to delivery. A function menu can now be used during playback so the user can efficiently select a huge number of images using high-speed continuous shooting.

The “Playback Function Menu” can be assigned in advance, so the user can perform protection, smartphone transfer, FTP transfer, etc. during image playback. The user can select images narrowed down with a playback filter and play them from the function menu, allowing for quick delivery of specific images. The camera is equipped with a dedicated microphone for voice memos on the back, and the built-in microphone located near the mouth allows clear recording of audio even in noisy environments. The recorded audio data can be transferred via FTP along with the images. The camera allows the user to set up to 20 presets from the International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC), an international consultative body in which news organisations from various countries participate.

The Alpha 9 III can transfer data up to twice as fast as the Alpha 9 II. 5 GHz communication offers maximum speed and stability for news and sports shooters who need to deliver immediately via FTP, as well as for studio environments. The Alpha 9 III allows stills and movies to be recorded to memory media in numerous ways including the two media slots that support CFexpress Type A cards as well as UHS-I and UHS-II SD cards.

It is compatible with the professional mobile application “Transfer & Tagging” which speeds up the image delivery workflow, and the application “Remote Camera Tool” which allows remote shooting of PCs using wired LAN. In addition, the Alpha 9 III is scheduled to support functional enhancements such as FTP operability, relay playback, and C2PA  format support through a camera software update. Sony says it will continue to expand functions such as breathing correction, relay playback, and C2PA format support for the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III in the future to meet the needs of professionals along with the Alpha 9 III.

The Alpha 9 III camera will be available in the UAE from Q1 2024 (calendar year). The VG-C5 vertical grip will be available in the UAE from Q1 2024 (calendar year).

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