Digital Photography Review Newsletter: Tuesday, 23 December 2014

	Digital Photography Review Newsletter Tuesday, 23 December 2014 The most popular weekly photography newsletter, with over 300,000 subscribers
Welcome to the 541st Digital Photography Review newsletter. So the year is almost at an end, and we're finally winding down a little, taking a few days off before 2015 starts in earnest. Our break will be short-lived. I fly out to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas on the 4th of January and a few weeks later we'll be covering CP+ in Japan. We're sure to see new cameras launched, and we'll be right there with in-depth content if and when we do. Here's what we've been up to for the past few days. Gold Standard: Nikon D750 Review The D750 is Nikon's newest FX-format camera, offering a number of features from the D810 in combination with a 24MP sensor. It also boasts a faster frame rate than any non-professional full-frame Nikon DSLR since the D700. Aimed squarely at enthusiasts and full-frame upgraders the D750 boasts a comprehensive video and still photography specification - see how it performed in the field and in our extensive studio tests. Read our full review of the Nikon D750 Have your say in our 2014 Readers' Polls 2014 was an impressive year for camera and lens launches. We've shared our thoughts on many of them, from high-quality high-end DSLRs to some very enticing enthusiast compacts. Now it's your turn - our 2014 Readers' Polls are open! Cast your vote in four categories: Best High-end ILC, Best Lens, Best Consumer ILC and Best High-end Compact Camera. Voting will run through Jan 20th so cast your vote now! Have your say about the standout products of 2014 in our end of year readers' polls What to Buy and Why: 2014 Buying Guides Updated! We've been devoting a lot of time over the past few weeks to updating our various roundups and buying guides ahead of the busy holiday season. We've published major updates to our existing 2013 content, to bring everything up to date. You can see our complete portfolio of buying guide content by following the links below. We hope you find it useful. Read our in-depth buying guide content - updated for 2014 . Real-world Test: Shooting Fashion with the Fujifilm X-T1 The X-T1 is Fujifilm's first weather-resistant interchangeable X-series camera. It is built around a 16.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor housed in a die-cast magnesium body. Offering a traditional design with five physical top plate dials, two command dials, and six programmable function buttons the X-T1 also has a high resolution OLED viewfinder. In the latest in our series of real-world video tests, we took the X-T1 to a local studio, to see how it would perform in the hands of a professional fashion and portrait photographer. Click here to watch our video Shooting for the moon: Photo tips from a NASA astronaut Many of us have dabbled in astrophotography, but it's a fair bet that none of us have captured star trails quite like Don Pettit has. A NASA astronaut and photographer, part of his job aboard the International Space Station has included photographing Earth from space, capturing aurora and vast glowing cities. Want to learn how to shoot like an astronaut? Read his eight tips for shooting in space. Click here to read an astronaut's tips for great photography in space (and on earth) What's coming up? A short break! We'll be back in 2015 with reviews, in-depth previews, studio work, news, comment, video features and more. 2014 felt like a year of firsts, in many ways, but it's been a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to next year, and I hope you are too. Thanks (as always) for reading and happy holidays, wherever you are in the world. Barney
News updates Studio update: Cameras added to our comparison tool that you may have missed Published on Monday, December 22, 2014 4:30:00 PM GMT It's been a busy few weeks around the DPReview office. Alongside full-length reviews, we've been busy making sure our camera roundups are up to date as well as preparing seasonal content like our holiday gift guides. We know you've been busy too, and you might have missed some of the most recent additions to our studio test scene. Read more Read full story → Starstruck: Adam Woodworth's nighttime photography Published on Sunday, December 21, 2014 1:00:00 PM GMT Photographer Adam Woodworth has been taking photos in one way or another for as long as he can remember. Over the past few years one of his many areas of focus has been landscape astrophotography, specifically imagery that captures perfect alignments of the galactic center of our Milky Way Galaxy over haunting New England locations. Take a look at his work and read our Q&A. See gallery Read full story → National Geographic Photo Contest 2014 winners announced Published on Saturday, December 20, 2014 1:00:00 PM GMT Winners of the National Geographic's 2014 Photo Contest have been announced, with first place winners in three categories bringing in cash prizes. The overall Grand Prize winning photo (above) has earned a total of $10,000 and a trip to National Geographic headquarters. Take a look at some of the winning images. See gallery Read full story → Gold Standard: Nikon D750 review posted Published on Saturday, December 20, 2014 3:45:10 AM GMT The D750 is Nikon's newest FX-format camera, offering a number of features from the D810 in combination with a 24MP sensor. It also boasts a faster frame rate than any non-professional full-frame Nikon DSLR since the D700. Aimed squarely at enthusiasts and full-frame upgraders the D750 boasts a comprehensive video and still photography specification - see how it performed in the field and in our extensive studio tests. Read review Read full story → Flickr Wall Art removes Creative Commons prints Published on Friday, December 19, 2014 8:54:29 PM GMT Flickr has apologized to users upset over its Creative Commons-licensed print options. Effective immediately, all CC images have been removed from its Wall Art printing service. Users are still able to order prints of their own images, photos provided by Flickr’s own licensed artists and photographers who have requested their images be included. Read more Read full story → Leica issues T (Typ 701) firmware update Published on Thursday, December 18, 2014 10:26:55 PM GMT Leica has released firmware version 1.3 for its T mirrorless camera (Typ 701). The latest update promises a collection of performance improvements for the unit's startup time and image quality, along with general bug fixes. Learn more Read full story → Fujifilm announces macro tubes, tethering software and X-series firmware availability Published on Thursday, December 18, 2014 6:46:00 PM GMT Update: Firmware updates are now available - click through for a download link. Fujifilm has unveiled two macro extension tubes for its X-series interchangeable lens cameras, as well as a launch date for the previously-promised Fujifilm X-T1 firmware. More firmware updates are also announced for the X-E2, X-E1, X-Pro1 and X-30, as well as the introduction of tethering software for PC. Read more Read full story → Motorola Moto X (2014) camera review Published on Thursday, December 18, 2014 5:54:04 PM GMT Despite using the same name as its predecessor, the new Moto X is a very different device. Its 5.2-inch 1080p OLED screen, thin bezels and aluminum body give it a premium feel. In the camera department it offers a 13MP sensor and F2.25 aperture, 4K-video and a dual-LED ring flash. We put it through our comprehensive testing - see if the 2014 edition is a better choice for mobile photographers than the original Moto X. Read review Read full story → Think Tank launches Airport Helipak for Phantom Quadcopter Published on Thursday, December 18, 2014 1:30:00 AM GMT Camera bag manufacturer Think Tank Photo has announced a backpack designed specifically for photographers using Phantom Quadcopters paired with GoPro cameras. The Airport Helipak is said to accommodate DJI Phantom 2, Phantom 2 Vision or similar quadcopters with their accessories, along with a 15-inch laptop, small cameras such as GoPros, and personal effects. Read more Read full story → 2014 Holiday Gift Guides Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 11:32:00 PM GMT Stumped for a gift for your favorite photographer? Or maybe you came in under budget on your holiday shopping and you have just enough left over for a little something for yourself? Either way, we've got some suggestions. Our holiday gift guides cover gifts in three price categories - $25-100, $100-500, $500 and up - to help you find the right present at the right price. Click through for links to all three guides Read full story → Canon updates Digital Photo Professional to version 4.1.50 Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 11:02:00 PM GMT Canon has updated its Digital Photo Professional 4 (DPP) software to version 4.1.50. The update brings support for a couple of new lenses and several camera models, improvements to multiple functions, and compatibility with 64-bit native environments, among other things. The newest version, says Canon, incorporates feedback from both APS-C and older full-frame owners eager for 'the very latest Raw workflow solution'. Read more Read full story → 2014 Holiday Gift Guide: $25-100 Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 9:03:07 PM GMT Photographers are a hard lot to shop for. While it's tempting to pick up a gift card from your local camera shop and call it a day, we've done some digging and come up with photo-related gift ideas for photographers of all skill and aspiration levels. If you're looking for something stocking-sized (and priced) our guide will put a smile on the face of your favorite photographer.  Read full story → 2014 Holiday Gift Guide: $500 and up Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 9:03:00 PM GMT If the photographer in your life is the kind that already has everything, it might be time to pull out all of the stops. From neat new gadgets to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the gifts in this guide will wow any photographer. Read full story → 2014 Holiday Gift Guide: $100-500 Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 9:03:00 PM GMT If you're looking for something special but you don't want to empty your bank account, these gifts for photographers will do the trick. While a wireless hard drive or a film scanner lacks the wow factor that an African safari can provide, these gifts will bring plenty of joy to any photographer's holiday. Read full story → Real-world Test: Shooting Fashion with the Fujifilm X-T1 Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 7:03:03 PM GMT The X-T1 is Fujifilm's first weather-resistant interchangeable X-series camera. It is built around a 16.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor housed in a die-cast magnesium body. Offering a traditional design with five physical top plate dials, two command dials, and six programmable function buttons the X-T1 also has a high resolution OLED viewfinder. In the latest in our series of real-world video tests, we took the X-T1 to a local studio, to see how it would perform in the hands of a professional fashion and portrait photographer. Click through to watch the video Read full story → Phase One and Alpa release official details and pricing of A-Series medium format cameras Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 12:00:00 PM GMT Phase One has announced official details of its new A-Series medium format cameras after information about the new pairing of the company's digital backs with an Alpa body and lenses was leaked in November. As was reported at the time, the series will comprise Phase One 50MP, 60MP and 80MP backs, combined with the Alpa 12 TC body and a choice of three lenses – the Alpagon 5.6/23mm, Alpar 4.0/35mm and the Alpagon 5.6/70mm. Read more Read full story → Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera Roundup (2014) Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 10:01:00 AM GMT What point-and-shootable mirrorless camera should I buy? Read full story → Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera Roundup (2014) Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 10:00:00 AM GMT Entry-level mirrorless cameras provide a nice middle ground between fixed-lens point-and-shoots and lower-end DSLRs. It's an ever-growing category with options for photographers of varying skill level and intentions. The common factors in this class are the huge step up in image quality over most compacts and smartphone cameras and the friendly interfaces. In this roundup, we'll talk you through the current crop of entry-level mirrorless cameras. Click through to read more Read full story → ProGearX announces new line of GoPro accessories Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 10:27:55 PM GMT ProGearX has announced the availability of several new accessories for mounting GoPro action cameras to a variety of surfaces. Among the new accessories is an extendable pole, body mounts, and a kit for mounting the action cam on different sports boards. The accessories are available now, and ProGearX will be showcasing them during CES 2015 next month. Read more Read full story → Enthusiast compact camera roundup (2014) Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:47:00 PM GMT Which capable compact, with plenty of control, should I buy? Read full story → Mid-range Mirrorless camera roundup (2014) Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:38:00 PM GMT A roundup of 2014's mid-range mirrorless digital cameras. Read full story → Enthusiast DSLR camera roundup (2014) Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:35:00 PM GMT As a keen, enthusiast photographer, what camera should I buy? Read full story → Huawei Honor 6 Plus offers three 8MP cameras Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 6:04:00 PM GMT Huawei has announced the Honor 6 Plus with not one, not two, but three 8MP cameras. One serves as a selfie-capture unit at the front while the other two are lined up side-by-side on the rear of the device. As on the HTC One M8 the dual lens setup allows for refocusing of already captured images. Read more Read full story → Have your say: Best High-end Compact Camera of 2014 Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 8:59:00 AM GMT This year saw a number of new cameras released in the high-end compact category, and as well as updated versions of earlier cameras, we also saw brand new products, and - increasingly - a shift to larger sensors as a major differentiator. 2014 was the year that Canon moved to the 1-inch sensor format, and Panasonic even managed to fit a Micro Four Thirds sensor into its LX100. Click through for a reminder of the high-end compacts released in 2014, and a chance to cast your vote for the best.  Read full story →
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Digital Photography Review Newsletter: Wednesday, 17 December 2014

	Digital Photography Review Newsletter Wednesday, 17 December 2014 The most popular weekly photography newsletter, with over 300,000 subscribers
Welcome to the 540th Digital Photography Review newsletter. As December wears on (and at this point in the year 'wears' feels like an apposite term) we're tying up loose ends here, still working on reviews and on a handful more updates to our seasonal gift and buying guide content. 2015 is just around the corner, and with it the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next month, followed quickly by CP+ in Japan, in February. But that's the future - let's take a look at some recently published content. Take two: Canon EOS 7D Mark II Review Canon's EOS 7D Mark II was a long time coming. It arrived in time for Photokina 2014, combining a pro-grade AF module with a 20MP APS-C CMOS sensor using Dual-Pixel AF. The 7D II also provides 10 fps continuous shooting, a 150,000 RGB +IR pixel metering sensor and 1080/60p video recording. Our full review takes an in-depth look at its performance. Read our full review of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II Have your say in our 2014 Readers' Polls 2014 was an impressive year for camera and lens launches. We've shared our thoughts on many of them, from high-quality high-end DSLRs to some very enticing enthusiast compacts. Now it's your turn - our 2014 Readers' Polls are open! Cast your vote in four categories: Best High-end ILC, Best Lens, Best Consumer ILC and Best High-end Compact Camera. Have your say about the standout products of 2014 in our end of year readers' polls Seattle PI.com showcases its 'pictures of the year' Seattle PI.com, formerly the Seattle Post Intelligencer, was the first major metropolitan newspaper in the USA to go online-only. Since then, the website has gained a reputation for high-quality photojournalism, covering events in Seattle and throughout Washington State. Remarkably, the PI only employs two full-time staff photographers, who between them in 2014 covered everything from the Superbowl to the tragic shooting at the Marysville-Pilchuck High School. Click here to view a selection of the Seattle PI's images of 2014 Lytro software update introduces Focus Spread feature Lytro's processing software just received a significant update. Lytro Desktop 4.1 provides some additional features for users of the Illum light field camera, including Focus Spread, which allows photographers to pick beginning and ending points for depth of focus. Click here to read more about Lytro's new Focus Spread feature What's coming up? We're finishing up reviews of the Nikon D750 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and we're also hoping to publish more on the Samsung NX1 before the end of the year. We also have another real-world video review on the way - this time featuring the Fujifilm X-T1. Keep an eye on our homepage! Barney
News updates ProGearX announces new line of GoPro accessories Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 10:27:55 PM GMT ProGearX has announced the availability of several new accessories for mounting GoPro action cameras to a variety of surfaces. Among the new accessories is an extendable pole, body mounts, and a kit for mounting the action cam on different sports boards. The accessories are available now, and ProGearX will be showcasing them during CES 2015 next month. Read more Read full story → Enthusiast compact camera roundup (2014) Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:47:00 PM GMT Which capable compact, with plenty of control, should I buy? Read full story → Mid-range Mirrorless camera roundup (2014) Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:38:00 PM GMT A roundup of 2014's mid-range mirrorless digital cameras. Read full story → Enthusiast DSLR camera roundup (2014) Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:35:00 PM GMT As a keen, enthusiast photographer, what camera should I buy? Read full story → Huawei Honor 6 Plus offers three 8MP cameras Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 6:04:00 PM GMT Huawei has announced the Honor 6 Plus with not one, not two, but three 8MP cameras. One serves as a selfie-capture unit at the front while the other two are lined up side-by-side on the rear of the device. As on the HTC One M8 the dual lens setup allows for refocusing of already captured images. Read more Read full story → Have your say: Best High-end Compact Camera of 2014 Published on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 8:59:00 AM GMT This year saw a number of new cameras released in the high-end compact category, and as well as updated versions of earlier cameras, we also saw brand new products, and - increasingly - a shift to larger sensors as a major differentiator. 2014 was the year that Canon moved to the 1-inch sensor format, and Panasonic even managed to fit a Micro Four Thirds sensor into its LX100. Click through for a reminder of the high-end compacts released in 2014, and a chance to cast your vote for the best.  Read full story → BPG image format aims to replace JPEGs Published on Monday, December 15, 2014 10:47:00 PM GMT There's no doubt that JPEG is the web's go-to image format, offering both widespread compatibility and small file sizes, but it's far from perfect. Alternative image formats have been developed that provide higher-quality compression, but nothing yet has come close to toppling JPEG thanks to its ubiquity. BPG is the latest new format to challenge it. Read more Read full story → Have your say in our 2014 Readers' Polls Published on Monday, December 15, 2014 7:00:00 PM GMT 2014 was an impressive year for camera and lens launches. We've shared our thoughts on many of them, from high-quality high-end DSLRs to some very enticing enthusiast compacts. Now it's your turn - our 2014 Readers' Polls are open! Cast your vote in four categories: Best High-end ILC, Best Lens, Best Consumer ILC and Best High-end Compact Camera. Read more Read full story → Have your say: Best High-end ILC of 2014 Published on Monday, December 15, 2014 6:35:00 PM GMT 2014 was a good year for enthusiast photographers, and saw a range of extremely high-quality DSLRs and mirrorless cameras released from all of the major manufacturers. As well as iterative upgrades to existing cameras, we also saw brand new products from Fujifilm and Samsung, and 4K video made its first appearance in this product class. Click through for a reminder of what was released this year, and cast your vote for the best high-end ILCs of 2014. Read full story → Have your say: Best Lens of 2014 Published on Monday, December 15, 2014 6:35:00 PM GMT A lot more lenses are released every year than cameras, and while we can't use all of them, we know that you - our readers - are avid lens buyers, and have your own opinions about which of the many models released every year are the best. For this poll, we've selected what we think are the standout lenses of 2014 for enthusiast DSLR and mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. Click through for a chance to vote for your choice of best lens released in 2014. Read full story → Have your say: Best Consumer ILC of 2014 Published on Monday, December 15, 2014 6:35:00 PM GMT Plenty of cameras were released in 2014, among them some very attractive consumer-level interchangeable lens cameras. Among the mirrorless and DSLR models in this class released in 2014 were a new Panasonic GM - the almost impossibly-small DMC-GM5, the very highly-specc'd Nikon D3300 and the awfully flashy (literally) Pentax K-S1. Click through for a reminder of what was released in this class this year, and for a chance to cast your vote for your favorite products.  Read full story → Seattle PI.com showcases its 'pictures of the year' Published on Sunday, December 14, 2014 1:10:00 PM GMT Seattle PI.com, formerly the Seattle Post Intelligencer, was the first major metropolitan newspaper in the USA to go online-only. Since then, the website has gained a reputation for high-quality photojournalism, covering events in Seattle and throughout Washington State. Remarkably, the PI only employs two full-time staff photographers, who between them in 2014 covered everything from the Superbowl to the tragic shooting at the Marysville-Pilchuck High School. Click through for a small selection of the PI's 'pictures of the year' Read full story → Sony World Photography Awards 2015: Standout submissions Published on Sunday, December 14, 2014 1:00:00 PM GMT Submissions are still being accepted for the Sony World Photographer Awards, but with competition deadlines fast approaching the organization has just released a selection of preliminary 'submission highlights' for a little inspiration. See gallery Read full story → Sony Alpha 77 II firmware update improves AF speed Published on Saturday, December 13, 2014 1:51:43 AM GMT Sony has released a firmware update for the SLT-a77 II, its 24MP semi-pro APS-C camera. Firmware 2.00 claims improved autofocus speed in all light conditions, but notably a 2.5x improvement in low light. Support for XAVC-S full HD video recording is also added. Read more Read full story → Adobe to acquire Fotolia for $800 million cash Published on Friday, December 12, 2014 11:14:18 PM GMT Adobe has announced plans to acquire stock photography service Fotolia. Once the acquisition is complete, Fotolia will be offered to Adobe users as a 'single Creative Cloud marketplace experience', as well as a standalone service to others. Read more Read full story → Camera FV-5 update brings DNG Raw capture to Android Published on Friday, December 12, 2014 7:11:00 PM GMT The latest update for Camera FV-5, a third-party camera app, makes Android the second mobile OS to allow capture of Raw image files. The app has been rewritten to take advantage of the improved camera support under the latest Android version, 5.0 Lollipop, now offering an option to save a DNG file with your JPEG image. Read more Read full story → Adobe releases Camera Raw 8.7.1 with Sony a7 II support Published on Thursday, December 11, 2014 10:40:34 PM GMT Adobe Camera Raw and DNG Converter 8.7.1 final releases are now available, adding support for the Sony Alpha 7 II and a handful of lens profiles. A bug related to chromatic aberration with the Samsung NX1 has also been addressed in this update. Read more Read full story → Take two: Canon EOS 7D Mark II Review Published on Thursday, December 11, 2014 8:42:00 PM GMT Canon's EOS 7D Mark II was a long time coming. It arrived in time for Photokina 2014, combining a pro-grade AF module with a 20MP APS-C CMOS sensor using Dual-Pixel AF. The 7D II also provides 10 fps continuous shooting, a 150,000 RGB +IR pixel metering sensor and 1080/60p video recording. Our full review takes an in-depth look at its performance. Read review Read full story → Peter Lik's 'Phantom' photograph breaks world record with $6.5 million sale Published on Thursday, December 11, 2014 7:43:35 PM GMT The world's most expensive photograph has sold for $6.5 million to a private collector. The photograph 'Phantom' was taken by fine art photographer Peter Lik, and was joined by sales of his "Eternal Moods" for $1.1 million and "Illusion" for $2.4 million for a total of $10 million. Read more Read full story → ShareGrid offers peer-to-peer gear rental Published on Thursday, December 11, 2014 7:35:00 PM GMT Renting gear from professional camera rental services has served as a vital resource for many photographers borrowing expensive or niche equipment for a shoot. Now, a new challenger has arrived, and the Los Angeles startup aims to create a peer-to-peer alternative to online rental services – enter, ShareGrid. Read more Read full story → ACDSee Ultimate 8 introduces layer-based editing Published on Thursday, December 11, 2014 1:00:00 PM GMT ACD Systems has announced ACDSee Ultimate 8, bringing for the first time layer-based editing to its Digital Asset Management and image manipulation software. It offers the same image adjustment capabilities provided by ACDSee Pro 8 with the added ability to create and manipulate layers, as well as support for 32-bit and 64-bit transparency. Read more Read full story → Lytro software update introduces Focus Spread feature Published on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 11:21:00 PM GMT Lytro's processing software just received a significant update. Lytro Desktop 4.1 provides some additional features for users of the Illum light field camera, including Focus Spread, which allows photographers to pick beginning and ending points for depth of focus. Learn more Read full story → Alien Skin offers Exposure 7 with Raw support Published on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 8:42:59 PM GMT Alien Skin software has announced Exposure 7, a new version of its flagship film emulation software. This iteration introduces non-destructive Raw editing, supporting files from a number of Canon and Nikon cameras as well as a handful of mirrorless models from Fujifilm, Olympus and Sony. Read more Read full story → Sony World Photography Awards judges revealed as deadline for entries nears Published on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 8:18:48 PM GMT The World Photography Organization has announced its judges for the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards. Photo editors from major publications around the world make up the judging committee. The competition is open to youth, amateurs and pros alike and is accepting entries until early January. The organization has also released a selection of standout submissions. Read more Read full story → Relio is a powerful LED light in your pocket Published on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 6:54:30 PM GMT It seems ultra-portable LED-based external light sources are the flavor of the season. Last month brought the Lume Cube, and today there is Relio. Relio is a 35mm small aluminum cube that uses a USB connection as power source for its LED light. It can be mounted on tripods and other camera supports using a 1/4-inch standard thread. Read more Read full story → Leica M9 users report sensor corrosion issue Published on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 6:10:00 PM GMT Update: Leica has issued an official statement addressing the reports of sensor corrosion. A growing number of Leica users are reporting white spots appearing on images taken with M9, M9-P, M Monochrom and M-E cameras. The common element in all of these models is their 18MP full frame Kodak CCD sensor which is protected by a piece of Schott S8612 glass. Read more Read full story → Adorama launches exclusive Aries Blackbird X10 quadcopter Published on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 12:53:55 AM GMT Adorama has announced the Aries Blackbird X10 quadcopter. The Blackbird X10 features an integrated 16MP camera with 1/2.3-inch type sensor able to record up to 1080p video at 30fps. Feature-wise the drone is decidedly mid-tier, falling between the lower-end Parrot AR.Drone 2.0 and the higher-end DJI Inspire 1 drones, for example, while retaining a moderate $799 price. Read more Read full story →
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Digital Photography Review Newsletter: Tuesday, 9 December 2014

	Digital Photography Review Newsletter Tuesday, 9 December 2014 The most popular weekly photography newsletter, with over 300,000 subscribers
Welcome to the 539th Digital Photography Review newsletter. December is proving just as busy as November here at DPReview, as we work to finish the last of our 2014 reviews, and prepare for the new year. The Consumer Electronics Show is just around the corner, in early January, followed by CP+, the Japanese photo show, a month later in Yokohama. We're expecting new products at both shows, so keep an eye on our homepage. Heavy Hitters: 2014 High-end Full-Frame Camera Roundup Full-frame sensors have made their way into more and more cameras, and are no longer reserved for DSLRs only. Whether you are a pro, an enthusiast, or simply looking to upgrade to a body that offers the most firepower possible, we've got you covered in our high-end full frame camera roundup. Read our roundup of high-end full-frame cameras Rock-solid? Real-world samples from the Sony Alpha a7II A production-ready Sony Alpha 7 II just landed in our office and we wasted no time getting together some real-world samples. Sony's follow-up to the a7 comes with a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor with 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization. Its Hybrid AF system claims to be 30% faster and 1.5x better at tracking compared to its predecessor, and boasts a number of design refinements. View our gallery of sample images from the Sony Alpha a7II Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 review-in-progress posted The Lumix DMC-GM5 is the newest minuscule ILC from Panasonic. It joins its sibling (the Lumix GM1) by offering nearly all of the same imaging features, including a 16MP Four Thirds sensor, while adding enthusiast-friendly features like an EVF and additional controls. We've been looking at how it handles in the field compared to its predecessor. Take a look at our review-in-progress, complete with studio analysis and shooting experience. Read our review-in-progress of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 . Tamron 16-300mm Di II VC PZD real-world samples The Tamron 16-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD is a general purpose 'carry everywhere' zoom for users of APS-C format DSLRs. Covering an equivalent focal length range of 24-450mm, this lens should be a perfect camera for travel and day-to-day use, allowing you to frame a huge variety of different subjects without changing lenses. We've been using one for a while and we've prepared a gallery of samples. Click here to view our gallery of samples from the Tamron 16-300mm Di II VC PZD Medium well done: Two takes on the Pentax 645Z The Pentax 645Z is a highly sought-after camera, offering 50MP resolution from its medium-format CMOS sensor, and a range of features closer to those of a 35mm DSLR than a traditional digital MF camera. We've been working with the 645Z for a little while, running it though our studio tests to see what it's capable of. As part of this process we handed the camera off to David Wentworth, a local Seattle studio photographer, for his opinion. Our very own Sam Spencer - DPReview studio manager - provides another perspective. Click here to read our article 'Medium well done: Two takes on the Pentax 645Z' What's coming up? Our full review of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is very close to being ready, and we're also aiming to finish full reviews of the Nikon D810 hopefully also Samsung's new NX1 before the end of the year. I'm also preparing another set of end of year readers' polls, so that you can have your say in which products were your favorites of 2014. Hopefully those will be going live next week. Barney
News updates Tamron 16-300mm Di II VC PZD real-world samples Published on Monday, December 8, 2014 8:01:00 AM GMT The Tamron 16-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD is a general purpose 'carry everywhere' zoom for users of APS-C format DSLRs. Covering an equivalent focal length range of 24-450mm, this lens should be a perfect camera for travel and day-to-day use, allowing you to frame a huge variety of different subjects without changing lenses. We've been using one for a while and we've prepared a gallery of samples. Click through to take a look Read full story → Heavy Hitters: 2014 High-end Full-Frame Camera Roundup Published on Monday, December 8, 2014 3:41:05 AM GMT Full-frame sensors have made their way into more and more cameras, and are no longer reserved for DSLRs only. Whether you are a pro, an enthusiast, or simply looking to upgrade to a body that offers the most firepower possible, we've got you covered in our high-end full frame camera roundup. Read more Read full story → High-end full frame roundup (2014) Published on Sunday, December 7, 2014 4:03:00 PM GMT Which high-end full-frame camera should I buy? This roundup contains the majority of current full-frame camera offerings available. Full-frame cameras have image sensors as large as a frame of 35mm film, and for good reason: larger sensors offer the potential for better image quality, low light performance, and dynamic range. If you want a drastic upgrade to the image quality of your phone, or portraits with superior subject to background separation, it’s hard to beat what full-frame offers.  Read full story → Behind the Shot: Dali's Dream Published on Sunday, December 7, 2014 8:54:00 AM GMT Nature photographer Erez Marom shares the story of his image 'Dali's Dream', taken in the Namibian ghost town of Kolmanskop. As usual, in this article he will cover preparation for the shoot, a walkthrough of the gear used to get the picture, and a detailed description of the post-processing work required to achieve the final shot. Click through to read more Read full story → All-in-one: ONA Capri bag review Published on Saturday, December 6, 2014 6:00:00 PM GMT ONA is known for high-end camera bags and accessories that go big on style - and price. The Capri leather tote is no exception - it's an attractive bag with padded storage for photo gear that could easily double as a high-end purse. Can it replace a camera bag and a purse, and is it worth the price? Read our review Read full story → Weird and wonderful: International science photography competition open for entries Published on Saturday, December 6, 2014 5:00:00 PM GMT Organizers of a worldwide competition for scientific photography are calling for entries for the International Images for Science competition. Photographers are encouraged to submit visually exciting and revealing pictures of objects and concepts relating to all areas of science. The competition, which is run by the Royal Photographic Society (RPS), is free to enter, and this year will be accepting work from members and non-members alike for the first time. Read more Read full story → CamsFormer is a programmable smartphone trigger for DSLRs Published on Saturday, December 6, 2014 12:11:45 AM GMT The feature-rich CamsFormer, currently looking for funding through Kickstarter, is a device that plugs into your camera or flash and is controlled wirelessly from a smartphone or tablet. It can trigger up to two cameras and allows you to remotely view and change a range of shooting parameters on your camera. Read more Read full story → Luminous Endowment announces first round of grant winners Published on Friday, December 5, 2014 11:44:00 PM GMT The Luminous Endowment, a charitable fund headed by Michael Reichmann, has announced its first round of grant recipients. Reichmann is the founder of Luminous Landscape, a website dedicated to fine art photography. His focus has shifted recently to the creation of the endowment, which awards merit-based grants to photographers seeking to start or complete projects, books or exhibitions. Read more Read full story → Phase One's new photo contest rewards winner with IQ250 loan Published on Friday, December 5, 2014 8:46:49 PM GMT Phase One has announced a new photo contest offering photographers a chance to win the use of a Phase One IQ250 medium format camera system for a month. The contest seeks submissions demonstrating the contest's theme "What the world's best __ is made of", and will run through the rest of the month. Learn more Read full story → Rumored Olympus OM-D E-M5 successor may offer resolution-boosting 'sensor shift' Published on Thursday, December 4, 2014 10:29:00 PM GMT Rumors are circulating about a possible successor to the Olympus OM-D E-M5. According to rumor site 43rumors.com, the camera is likely to be called the Olympus E-M5II or the Olympus E-M5 Mark II and is said to feature a 16MP sensor but with a sensor shift function allowing users to boost resolution up to an equivalent 40MP. Read more (albeit not all that much more) Read full story → DxO OpticsPro update adds Canon 7D II, GoPro Hero4 Black Edition support Published on Thursday, December 4, 2014 10:12:31 PM GMT DxO's latest update to its Optics Pro software, version 10.1, brings compatibility with several new camera models including the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, PowerShot G7 X and GoPro Hero4. The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are also included, and this update also makes OpticsPro 10 compatible with star rating systems used by Lightroom and other programs using XMP data. Read more Read full story → Sony Alpha 7 II real-world sample gallery posted Published on Thursday, December 4, 2014 9:25:00 PM GMT A production-ready Sony Alpha 7 II just landed in our office and we wasted no time getting together some real-world samples. Sony's follow-up to the a7 comes with a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor with 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization. Its Hybrid AF system claims to be 30% faster and 1.5x better at tracking compared to its predecessor, and boasts a number of design refinements. See gallery Read full story → Casio launches EX-MR1 selfie camera with lens behind a mirror Published on Thursday, December 4, 2014 7:01:08 PM GMT Casio has taken the selfie camera a logical step forward with a new design. The Casio Exilim EX-MR1 uses a lens behind a large mirror so that shooters can check their appearance as they take a picture. The camera, which the company seems to be targeting at women, is a 14MP compact camera with an extra wide angle 4x zoom that starts at 21mm equivalent - a focal length Casio says is optimal for taking self-portraits. Read more Read full story → New photo filters added to Twitter iOS and Android apps Published on Thursday, December 4, 2014 12:07:45 AM GMT Twitter has launched an update to its mobile apps for iOS and Android bringing a range of new photo filters. In addition to new filter options, filter strength can now be adjusted via a slider, providing more control over the final result. Read more Read full story → F-Stop Gear's Kashmir camera bag is designed for women Published on Thursday, December 4, 2014 12:06:41 AM GMT F-Stop Gear has introduced Kashmir, a camera backpack designed specifically for women. Kashmir is billed as an ultra-light camera pack with a harness system and torso height adjusted to complement a woman's body, something accomplished through the use of an Ultra Lite EVA-padded hip belt and what the maker says are 'female specific S-shoulder straps'. The bag is being funded through Kickstarter. Read more Read full story → Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 review-in-progress posted Published on Wednesday, December 3, 2014 10:22:00 PM GMT The Lumix DMC-GM5 is the newest minuscule ILC from Panasonic. It joins its sibling (the Lumix GM1) by offering nearly all of the same imaging features, including a 16MP Four Thirds sensor, while adding enthusiast-friendly features like an EVF and additional controls. We've been looking at how it handles in the field compared to its predecessor. Take a look at our review-in-progress, complete with studio analysis and shooting experience. Read more Read full story → Real-world test: Nikon D750 at the Museum of Flight Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 10:28:00 PM GMT The D750 is Nikon's enthusiast-oriented full-frame DSLR, featuring a 24MP sensor and a raft of high-end features borrowed from the D810 and D4S. These include a tweaked version of their highly capable 51-point AF system and a very solid HD video specification. We're working on a full review of the D750 right now, and as part of that process we made a short video, highlighting some of the camera's key features in real-world use. Click through to watch. Read full story → Documentary photographer turns to video for 'The Long Night' Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 6:30:00 PM GMT A multimedia journalist by trade, Tim Matsui's still photography projects have taken him from native Alaskan villages to Brazilian Air Force training facilities. Matsui shares with us his journey in creating his latest documentary work, from its beginnings in still photography to the adaptations he made to turn it into a video production. Learn more about his work on 'The Long Night,' a documentary debuting this week that looks into human trafficking in Seattle. Read our Q&A Read full story → creativeLIVE presents 'The Art of Wildlife Photography' with Tom Mangelsen Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 4:45:00 PM GMT creativeLIVE is hosting a two day live workshop with nature photographer Tom Mangelsen. The class will be broadcast live from 9am today, December 2nd (Pacific time) and will cover everything from gear and location scouting advice to wildlife etiquette. It also includes a critique and portfolio review of viewers' images. The class is free to watch live and costs $99 for the rebroadcast. Click through for a link Read full story → DPReview Recommends: Best Compact Cameras for Enthusiasts Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 12:07:00 AM GMT There's a long tradition of high-quality compact cameras and today there are some incredibly capable compact cameras on the market. Top-notch lenses, great sensors and plenty of control are the hallmarks of every one of our top five recommended compact cameras for enthusiasts. Read full story → DPReview Recommends: Best Cameras for Beginners Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 12:06:00 AM GMT Choosing a first camera is extremely important. You want to make sure that the beginner has room to grow as they learn more, but you don't want to put them off with a lot of options that they might not understand. We've prepared some recommendations for you. Read full story → DPReview Recommends: Best Compact Cameras for Travel Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 12:06:00 AM GMT There's a big world out there, just waiting for you to explore it. In our opinion, a camera is one of the best traveling companions you can have. Here are our top five recommendations. Read full story → DPReview Recommends: Best Cameras for Social Photography Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 12:06:00 AM GMT Social photography didn't always mean snapshot selfies taken on a smartphone. For this list we've selected five of our top recommendations for cameras that you should consider taking out socially, to informal or special occasions. Read full story → DPReview Recommends: Best Interchangeable Lens Cameras for Under $1000 Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 12:06:00 AM GMT A few years ago, the idea of a DSLR under $1000 was just a distant dream, but these days the financial bar to entry is much lower than it was in the past. Here's our list of the top five interchangeable lens cameras that we'd currently recommend for under $1000 - including a kit zoom lens. Read full story → DPReview Recommends: Best Waterproof Cameras Published on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 12:06:00 AM GMT Most cameras are delicate objects, and the last thing you want to do is drop them or subject them to wet or freezing conditions. But there are cameras which are specifically designed to handle rough treatment. In this list, we've chosen our top five recommendations for waterproof cameras. Read full story →
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