Indholdsfortegnelse for December 2024 i Smart Photography

As we enter the last month of 2024, let us review the major trends that emerged during this period. In the beginning of 2024, it was assumed that both DSLRs and Compact cameras were either dying or dead. Whilst DSLRs are sinking rapidly, compact cameras have staged a smart revival following the launch of the Fujifilm X 100 VI. Suddenly, other camera manufacturers have restarted development work on compact cameras. This shows that it only needed an outstanding product to kickstart what was considered a dying market. The mirrorless market continues to be strong and companies like Fujifilm, Nikon and Sony have produced impressive sales and profits. Nikon estimates the world market for mirrorless cameras at around 6100000 units. Tamron, in particular and Sigma have seen success manufacturing lenses for…

Speculation surrounding Sony’s next addition to the A7S series suggests that the A7S IV may feature a revolutionary dual-layer sensor. This technology could significantly enhance low-light performance, a hallmark of the series, but without an emphasis on 8K video recording. Industry chatter implies that Sony may prioritise refined video quality and dynamic range over the resolution arms race, aligning with the preferences of professional videographers and content creators. The rumoured camera is also expected to retain the series’ user-friendly features while potentially introducing faster autofocus and improved stabilisation. Sony enthusiasts eagerly await confirmation, with the A7S IV poised to cater to a growing demand for high-performance cameras tailored for video professionals.…

Leica has introduced elegant glossy black editions of its M11 camera and the Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH. lens, celebrating the brand’s timeless craftsmanship and heritage. The M11, known for its cutting-edge technology, now features a brass top plate with a glossy black paint finish, engraved Leica branding, and retro-inspired details like a silver chromed shutter button. The design intentionally omits Leica’s iconic red dot, offering understated sophistication. Accompanying the camera is the Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH., also in a glossy black finish. Renowned for its sharpness and smooth bokeh, this version includes matching accessories like a painted round lens hood and lens caps. Priced at €8,950 for the camera and €7,900 for the lens, these new editions are available globally through Leica stores, their online platform, and authorised retailers.…

The 2024 Photography Industry Trends report from Aftershoot reveals key insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of professional photography. With technological advancements and shifting client expectations, the industry is expected to continue adapting to a digital-first world. The survey, based on over 500 professional photographers, highlights the following key trends: • Popular Genres: Wedding, portrait, and event photography are the leading genres among professionals. • High-Volume Workflows: Nearly 47% of photographers shoot between 1,000-3,000 images per session. • Delivery Time: Only 13.4% deliver images within a week. • Tech Adoption: AI and automation are now integral tools for enhancing creativity and consistency. • Investment: A cautious approach to gear spending, with many investing in specialized equipment. • Online Presence: Mastery of social media and SEO is essential for client acquisition.…

Nikon has officially announced the Z50 II, a compact and powerful mirrorless camera that combines advanced technology with creative versatility. Featuring the same EXPEED 7 processor as the flagship Z9, the Z50 II offers professional-level autofocus, video capabilities, and colour customisation in a portable APS-C/DX format body. Key Features • Enhanced Imaging Performance: A 20.9MP APS-C sensor ensures high-quality photos and videos with excellent low-light performance. • Pro-Level Autofocus: Advanced subject detection and 3D tracking lock onto eyes, pets, vehicles, and more with precision, even in motion. • Creative Flexibility: The new Picture Control button gives instant access to 31 colour presets and allows custom “Imaging Recipes” via the Nikon Imaging Cloud. • Video Excellence: The Z50 II records oversampled 4K footage from 5.6K resolution, with features like N-LOG, a…

October is a highly anticipated month for photography enthusiasts, eagerly awaiting Adobe’s annual updates to its image processing applications. So, did Adobe deliver this year as usual? Absolutely. But what new features did they bring? And did these updates improve the workflow of photographers, save time, and enhance ease of use? Keep reading to find out. While there were updates to many apps, we will confine ourselves to the new or improved features in ACR (Adobe Camera Raw) and Photoshop, in this article, starting with the former. The new version of ACR is called the 17.0 Release and brings three important features, viz, 1. Adaptive Profiles. 2. Improved Enhance (Denoise and Super Resolution). 3. Generative Expand. Let us look at each of these in detail. Readers may recall that Adobe…

SONY FE 85 mm f 1.4 GM II ₹180,990 In the Box ✓ Lens✓ Front cap (ALC-F77S)✓ Rear cap (ALC-R1EM) ✓ Lens hood (ALC-SH180)✓ Soft case The 85 mm focal length is a favourite for portraiture and every manufacturer has a 85 mm lens in their armour. At the budget end, the 85 mm f 1.8 is a favourite. Hovever, there is a growing demand for portrait lenses with a bigger aperture resulting in better bokeh. Sony had a 85 mm f 1.4 in its collection for the last seven years; it was now time to update and Sony has launched version 2 of this lens. Sony claims significant improvements in focussing speeds and increased sharpness in its new offering. SP checks this out. Design & Build Quality The main…

Laowa has introduced the 15mm f/5 Cookie FF lens, a compact and lightweight ultra-wide-angle option for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Weighing as little as 104g and measuring just 25mm in length for Leica M mounts, this pancake-style lens offers a 110° field of view, ideal for landscapes, street photography, and everyday use. The lens is available for Sony E, Nikon Z, Canon RF, Leica M, and L-Mount systems. While Sony and Nikon versions include electronic contacts for auto-aperture control and EXIF data recording, other mounts retain fully manual operation. Notable features include a 12cm close focusing distance for intricate shots, a 39mm built-in filter thread for creative effects, and a unique 10-point aperture for striking sunstar effects. Stylish black and silver finishes are available to suit different camera styles. Now available…

Fujifilm is rumoured to expand its iconic X100 series with the X100R, expected to feature a 40MP APS-C sensor. This sensor upgrade could deliver sharper image quality and cater to photographers seeking high-resolution output in a portable format. Adding in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) would further elevate the camera, making it a game-changer for handheld shooting and low-light scenarios. Leaked details also hint at improved autofocus and enhanced customisation options, maintaining the X100 series’ reputation for blending retro aesthetics with modern functionality. If true, these features could make the X100R a standout compact option for street photographers and creatives alike.…

Panasonic has unveiled the LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3, the world’s smallest and lightest full-frame zoom lens, weighing just 155g. Part of the L-Mount system, this lens is a versatile addition to the LUMIX S Series, offering a focal range from ultra-wide 18mm to standard 40mm. Its closest focusing distance of 0.15m enables detailed close-ups, making it ideal for capturing landscapes, portraits, and everyday moments. Designed to pair seamlessly with the LUMIX S9 camera, the lens also supports a Hybrid Zoom function, extending its range to 18-120mm. Built for hybrid creators, it delivers high-resolution performance for photos and videos, with smooth bokeh and advanced focus breathing suppression for seamless transitions during video recording. The lens is built to withstand tough conditions, featuring dust, splash, and freeze-resistant construction with a durable fluorine…

Sony has unveiled the Alpha 1 II, its latest flagship full-frame mirrorless camera, combining high resolution, speed, and cutting-edge AI technology. Aimed at professionals across photojournalism, wildlife, sports, and commercial photography, the Alpha 1 II builds on its predecessor with significant advancements. The camera features a 50.1 MP Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor, enabling up to 30 fps blackout-free shooting with advanced autofocus and auto exposure tracking. An AI processing unit powers subject recognition for animals, birds, and vehicles, along with human pose estimation, enhancing performance in dynamic scenarios. Video capabilities include 8K 30p and 4K 120p recording with 10-bit 4:2:2 colour depth, advanced stabilisation, and tools like Breathing Compensation and Auto Framing. The ergonomic redesign incorporates a multi-angle LCD monitor, improved grip, and customisable controls, providing comfort during extended…

Vimal Parmar An independent marketing consultant and digital print evangelist with over 40 years of experience in the imaging industry. @vimalparmar Create Lasting Memories: Start an Annual Family Photobook Tradition Dear Readers, As we enter the year’s final month, I have a meaningful suggestion: consider starting an annual tradition of creating a family photobook. This beautiful practice allows you to relive the significant milestones and the small, everyday moments of the past year—captured in a tangible, lasting way. The process is straightforward. Begin by creating a folder to collect all photos you and your family took throughout the year. Then, review these images carefully, deleting those that are low-quality, repetitive, or simply do not resonate. This curation process helps you distil your year into 150-200 meaningful images that truly reflect…

Sigma 28-105 mm F/2.8 DG DN Art Lens ₹144,700 In the Box ✓ Lens✓ Lens hood✓ Front/Rear caps✓ Case As Chinese lens manufacturers improve their quality and introduce a wider range of prime lenses, independent lens manufacturers from Japan have not been sitting idle. New zoom lenses with wider ranges and bigger apertures are being introduced. Sigma is the first off the block with its new 28 – 105 mm f 2.8 DG DN ART lens. Currently, the lens is one of a kind and is available for Sony E mount and Panasonic L mount users. Like all Sigma lenses, this lens is also made in Japan. Design & Build Quality The Sigma 28 – 105 mm f 2.8 is superbly finished and boasts solid build quality. Magnesium alloy has…

Oppo Find X8 ₹69,999/- onwards Inside the Box ✓ Handset✓ Charger✓ USB Data Cable✓ Sim Ejector Tool✓ Quick Guide✓ Safety Guide✓ Protective Case We reviewed the latest phone from Oppo, the Find X8, Space Black unit (Dual Physical SIM, 16GB RAM & 512GB). The Find X8 boasts a minimalist design with flat sides and contoured edges, making it comfortable to hold. It’s slim at 7.85mm and light at 193g, featuring a refined Cosmos Ring design to minimize the camera bump. The 6.59-inch AMOLED display is immersive, with ultra-slim 1.45mm bezels and brightness up to 4500 nits, supporting Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Its compact size makes it suitable for both one-handed use and immersive viewing. I found it comfortable to hold and perform most phone functions easily. In the front, the OPPO…