Canon announces development of Free Viewpoint Video System virtual camera system for immersive viewing experience

Various types of video production are employed at sporting events to convey a passion for sports and the thrill of competition. With the development of its Free Viewpoint Video System—which creates an immersive experience that gives the user a sense that they are really there—Canon has achieved a video experience that can be viewed from various angles and viewpoints, expanding the boundaries of visual expression and contributing to the development of video culture.

Canon press release:

MELVILLE, N.Y., September 21, 2017 – Canon Inc. announced today the development of the Free Viewpoint Video System, a new visual solution that incorporates the optical and sensor technologies cultivated by the Company over many years. Using this technology, Canon aims to provide a high-value-added imaging solution for a wide range of applications including sporting events.

Various types of video production are employed at sporting events to convey a passion for sports and the thrill of competition. With the development of its Free Viewpoint Video System—which creates a realistic, immersive experience that gives the user a sense that they are really there—Canon has achieved a video experience that can be viewed from various angles and viewpoints, expanding the boundaries of visual expression and contributing to the development of video culture.
The system comprises several high-resolution cameras set up around the stadium, which are connected to a network and controlled via software to simultaneously capture the game from multiple viewpoints. Afterward, image processing technology renders the videos as high-resolution 3-D spatial data where users can freely move a virtual camera around the 3-D space, resulting in video that can be viewed from various different angles and viewpoints.
The Free Viewpoint Video System offers a completely new, totally immersive visual experience that enables viewers to operate a virtual camera in 3-D space to move freely around the stadium and even experience the simulated physical sensation of being among players on the field during a game. Along with providing a new way to enjoy sporting events, Canon plans to explore such potential applications for this system as training teams and athletes.
Sample video
J League Match: November 3, 2016
Kawasaki Frontale vs. Gamba Osaka
at Kawasaki Todoroki Stadium, Kanagawa Prefecture
Canon strives to promote sports and culture by using its cutting-edge products and technologies to develop innovative ways to enjoy visual content.
Additional information 
Canon will showcase the Free Viewpoint Video System at the Canon booth during
Inter BEE 2017, held from November 15 to 17 at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.
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Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta sponsored by Canon

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
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Canon press release:

Canon U.S.A. Renews Sponsorship of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Canon Will Continue to Engage and Educate Visitors at One of the World’s Most Photographed Events Through 2020

MELVILLE, N.Y., September 21, 2017 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce a renewal of its partnership with world-renowned event, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, taking its role as presenting sponsor of the event through 2020. This renewed sponsorship marks Canon’s commitment to the Albuquerque community, an area where Canon calls home to one of the two U.S. support centers that service the Company’s customers. To mark this momentous three-year sponsorship renewal, Canon has and will continue to sponsor the opening Mass Ascension and closing Night Magic™ Glow events.

“It’s been a true honor to serve as the presenting sponsor of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta since 2015,” said Eliott Peck, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “It is a place to let your imagination run wild and is truly awe-inspiring as colorful balloons fill the sky – making it the ideal setting for photographers and videographers to capture spectacular images.”

As one of the most photographed events in the world, the balloon fiesta offers many photo opportunities to create memories of a lifetime. This year’s 46th annual event will take place Oct. 7-15, 2017 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, featuring over 500 hot air and gas balloons, of which the Fiesta anticipates almost 100 of those to be special shaped balloons.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Canon as the Fiesta’s Presenting Sponsor for the next three years,” said Balloon Fiesta board president, Mike Rice. “This event is a crux of the Albuquerque community and Canon’s support over the years has helped our guests create lasting memories.”

With this renewal, Canon will continue to host hands-on activities, allowing attendees to try its wide array of products to bring their experience to life. Attendees will have the opportunity to borrow the latest Canon equipment* from the Main Street booth where they can also sign up for photo walks and use Canon’s interactive photo booth. Canon imaging experts will also be on site to provide educational experiences to help attendees capture once-in-a- lifetime photos and videos.

About Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an annual festival of hot air balloons that takes place every October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. It is the largest gathering of balloons and balloonists in the world. For details on events, schedule, entertainment and photographs visit our website www.balloonfiesta.com and follow us on Twitter @BalloonFiesta and Facebook.

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Techart announces Canon EF to Fujifilm GFX Smart Adapter

Techart

Techart EF-GFX adapter at a glance:

  • Support Autofocus for most Canon EF & Sigma EF lenses
  • Support Automatic Aperture control from Fujifilm GFX body
  • Support Lens Image Stabilisation (IS)
  • Transfer EXIF data to camera
  • Firmware upgradable via Micro USB plug
  • Aluminium finishing, brass bayonets and streamline design.
  • Powered by camera body

The Techart EF-GFX adapter can be pre-ordered, delivery is expected to start mid October, 2017.

Techart unveils the Canon EF lens to Fujifilm GFX 50S adapter with Autofocus & Aperture control

Guangzhou China, Sep 20, 2017 – The innovative adapter developer, Techart, who has previously launched the first autofocus adapter for manual lenses, has unveiled the world’s first Autofocus adapter for Canon EF lenses & Fujifilm GFX 50S camera. The Techart EF-GFX adapter provides autofocus function as well as in-body aperture control for using Canon /Sigma EF-mount lenses on the Fujifilm GFX body.

Techart has tested extensively on the modern Canon / Sigma EF-mount lenses in the market and found the autofocus performance on the GFX is satisfactory. Aperture of the lenses can also be adjusted on the camera by simply turning the command dial. The EF- GFX adapter currently supports AF-S mode for shooting and supports the lens Image Stabilization function (if applicable). Focal length and aperture data will also be saved into the adapter.

Techart is also working to unlock the AF-C and video-shooting feature. It is expected to be seen in future firmware release. The firmware of the adapter is user-upgradable and can be done by simply plugging the adapter into a computer via the Micro USB cable and running the update program.

The short flange distance of Fujifilm GFX 50S provides a perfect platform for adapting different mount lenses. Although not every one of the full frame EF-mount lenses has a big enough image circle to cover the GFX sensor, Techart EF-GFX adapter still opens up a wide range of lenses options for GFX users to consider.
Pricing and Availability

The Techart Canon EF – Fujifilm GFX Autofocus Adapter is currently available for pre- order at our official website (http://www.techartpro.com). The recommended retail price is USD 499/pc. Free shipping will be provided during the promotion period. Delivery will commence from mid Oct onwards. 1-year warranty is included.

[via Fuji Rumors]

Canon Rebel SL2 review (DPReview)

Rebel SL2 SL3 minecraft server
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Canon Rebel SL2: [shopcountry 46189]

Rebel SL2 at a glance:

  • 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • DIGIC 7 Image Processor
  • 3″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD
  • Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps
  • 9-Point AF System; Dual Pixel CMOS AF
  • Native ISO 25600, Extended to ISO 51200
  • Up to 5 fps Continuous Shooting
  • Feature Assistant; Microphone Input
  • Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC and Bluetooth

DPReview reviewed  the world’s smallest DSLR, the new Canon Rebel SL2 (EOS 200D in Europe)

From the conclusion:

Despite the SL2’s small body, Canon hasn’t compromised usability. The grip is comfortable given the size of the camera, though those with large hands might wish for something more substantial. The camera’s sole control dial is exactly where it needs to be. The body is made of composite materials, though it doesn’t feel cheap. The SL2 has a small but usable optical viewfinder as well as a very nice fully articulating touch-enabled LCD. Naturally there’s a Selfie mode, which can blur the background for you by adjusting the aperture.

[…] the photos produced by the SL2 are what we expect to see from a Canon camera. That means pleasing color and good (but not great) detail capture and high ISO noise performance. Looking at Raw images tells us that the SL2 would retain more fine detail if its JPEG sharpening and noise reduction systems were a bit smarter. While the SL2’s Raw files don’t have as much dynamic range as the best APS-C cameras, it’s competitive with the models in its class, as are noise levels.

Read the review at DPReview

Canon Rebel SL2 world-wide order: [shoplist 46189]

Canon’s modular camera system MM100-WS is on display at IBC 2017

MM100-WS
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We reported a few days ago about Canon’s modular Multi-Purpose Camera MM100-WS.

The MM100-WS is a modular system. That means you will be able to attach batteries, screens, and probably some more stuff. Some of the pics below (click to see larger) give a good idea about the modularity. Moreover, Canon will make the API (application programming interface) available upon request (and disclosed under NDA), so all sort of customisation will be possible for a variety of applications. Cool gear. Looks similar to an action camera, and it looks sturdy too. Canon is not new to multipurpose cameras.

The MM100-WS also has also some impressive low-light capabilities, Canon states:

The Canon MM100-WS Multi-Purpose Camera features a compact body size of approximately 1.57 in (w) x 1.57 in (h) x .85 in (d). The multi-purpose module camera has a highly customizable body designed to accommodate various module solutions and features a high-level of dust and moisture resistance and durability needed for a wide range of applications. In addition, the camera is capable of capturing images in low-light environments with as little as 1 lux of illumination

Thanks to our friends at COSYSPEED we have some images of the MM100-WS on display at IBC 2017 in Amsterdam.

The cool folks at COSYSPEED make smart and functional camera bags, designed for mirrorless systems, but a small DSLR with lens will also fit. I’m a happy owner of Streetomatic, and of  one of the first bags they made.

Canon will release a compact beamer that can be used without a computer and connects to select Canon cameras

M-i1
Image © Canon Marketing Japan
Canon Japan is about to release a small projector (105 x 105 x 22mm, 235g) with Android as operating system. The Mini Projector M-i1 can be used without being connected to a PC and has projection range from 0,5 to 3m with a full HD (1080p) resolution. The Mini Projector M-i1 will be available at Canon’s online store for approx. $273 (taxes excluded).

Update:

The Canon Mini Projector can be used over WiFi, not just using a smartphone or tablet, but also Canon cameras that have WiFi connectivity. Canon Japan lists the EOS M6, EOS M100, EOS 6D Mark II, Powershot SX 730 HS among the cameras that support a direct WiFi connection to the projector.

Canon Marketing Japan Inc will release the “Mini Projector M-i1,” which can project video without using a personal computer, Sept 7, 2017.

The company expects that the projector will be used for making a presentation outside, having a conference in open space, projecting images at a construction site, etc.

The projector can project video by reading out data stored in the embedded memory or a USB memory stick by operating the touch pad. With a built-in battery, it can be used for up to two hours, and it can be used as a mobile battery for charging a smartphone, etc.

Read more at Nikkei Technology…