New Sigma 30mm Lens For Canon Mount Announced At CP+

New Sigma 30mm

Sigma announced new lenses at CP+, only one for Canon mounts: the newly designed 30mm F1.4 DC HSM, part of its “A” (Art) line-up:

SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM”, the large-aperture standard lens with an angle of view equivalent to 45mm on a 35mm camera, is a superb go-to lens for artistic photography on an APS-C format digital SLR. Offering the bright F1.4 aperture and an angle of view extremely close to that of human vision, this lens is ideal for many different types of photographic expression.

Featuring an advanced design and the latest manufacturing technologies, SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM, the large-aperture APS-C format standard lens delivers the highest level of image quality worthy of the Art line. The photographer can leverage the shallow depth of field that creates beautiful bokeh for snap shots, portraits, landscapes, and many different styles of photography.

The SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM can be preordered at B&H (click here)

Sigma’s product description:

1. Our Art line delivers high-level artistic quality
Sigma is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines; Contemporary, Art and Sports. Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, our Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. Developed with the maximum emphasis on artistic touch, they are designed to meet the expectations of users who value a creative, dramatic outcome above compactness and multifunction. Along with landscapes, portraits, still-life, close-up and casual snaps, they are perfect for the kind of photography that unleashes the inner artist. Ideal for studio photography, they offer just as much expressive scope when capturing architecture, starry skies, underwater shots and many other scenes.
2. A large aperture F1.4 standard lens
Sigma pioneered the large-aperture APS-C format standard lens category with its 30mm F1.4 lens in 2005. Now that we have reorganized all our lenses into three product lines, we are proud to introduce the fully updated “SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM”. Offering the shallow depth of field of F1.4 and an angle of view extremely close to that of human vision, this lens stimulates the desire to create and is ideal for many different types of photographic expression. The bright viewfinder also aids focusing and composition of images.
3. Outstanding image quality for enhanced photographic expression
Convenient angle of view of a standard lens challenges photographers’ expression. The SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM has outstanding optical performance in order to fully perform its best expressive quality at all shooting distances. Optimized power distribution minimizes field curvature thereby preventing a loss of image quality at the edges of photographs. The use of a double aspheric lens minimizes spherical distortion, astigmatism and coma. Coma of point light sources is minimized near the edge of the image, and an attractive round bokeh effect is produced at large-aperture settings.
4. Incorporating a Rear Focus system
The lens incorporates a rear focus system that prevents focus-dependent variation in aberration, making high-level image quality possible throughout the entire image. With their unchanging barrel length, these lenses also enhance balance and stability for the photographer. Furthermore, since the front of the lens does not rotate, polarizing filters can be used with extra convenience.
5.Flare and ghosting conscious design
From an early stage, flare and ghosting are thoroughly measured to establish the design which is resistant to strong incident light such as backlight. Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting, and provides sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions.
[Other Features]
  • Minimum focusing distance of 30cm
The maximum magnification is 1:6.8, making it excellent for close-up photography.
  • Hyper Sonic Motor
The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function. Optimizing AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved. It also enables full-time manual focusing capability which allows sensible focus adjustment by simply rotating the focus ring.
  • Incorporating Rounded diaphragm
The 9 blade rounded diaphragm creates an attractive round bokeh at large-aperture settings.
  • Design concept
The new product lines incorporate rubber for the attachment part of the provided lens hood. For better usability, the designs of the lens cap and AF/MF changeover switch have been improved. In order to ensure high accuracy of the product, all metallic parts and the new compound material, TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a high affinity to metal parts, are housed internally.
  • Brass made bayonet mount
This lens incorporates a brass made bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and durability. A special treatment to reinforce its strength is applied to the surface giving it greater strength and making it highly resistant to long-term use.
  • Newly developed “USB DOCK” exclusively for new product lines
Attaching the lens to an optional USB DOCK (planned to be available in 2013) plugged to your computer and using dedicated software “SIGMA Optimization Pro”, you can update the lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus.
  • Evaluation with Sigma’s own MTF measuring system “A1”
We used to measure lens performance with MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we’ve now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using Foveon 46-megapixel direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. The SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM will all be checked using this “A1” before they are shipped.
  • “Made in Japan”
All Sigma’s manufacturing right down to molds and parts is carried out under an integrated production system. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely “made in Japan”. We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of Sigma products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world, because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.
[Specification] For Sigma
Lens Construction: 8 elements in 9 groups | Minimum aperture: F16 | Filter size: ø62mm | Angle of view (SD1): 50.7° | Minimum focusing distance: 30cm/11.8in. | Dimensions (Diameter x Length): ø74.2mm x 63.3mm/2.9in. x 3.5in. | Number of diaphragm blades: 9 (Rounded diaphragm) | Maximum magnification ratio: 1:6.8 | Weight: 435g/15.3oz.

 

Canon’s 2012 Financial Results

Canon's 2012 Financial Results

Canon released the financial results for 2012 (pdf file here). A graphical summary can be viewed here (pdf).

Quoting Reuters (source: The Digital Picture)

Japan’s Canon reports Q4 operating profit down 17.9 percent

TOKYO – Japan’s Canon Inc posted a 17.9 percent drop in quarterly operating profit on Wednesday, hurt by a strong yen and weaker demand for compact cameras as consumers switched to smartphones.

Canon says sales in China down more than 30 percent in 2012

TOKYO – Canon Inc said on Wednesday that its sales in China fell more than 30 percent in the year to December 2012, more than it had expected, due to a slowdown in that country and a territorial dispute between Tokyo and Beijing.

Canon forecasts 7.1 pct drop in 2013 compact camera sales

TOKYO, Jan 30 – Japan’s Canon Inc said on Wednesday it expected to sell 17 million compact cameras in the current business year ending in December, versus 18.3 million in 2012.

 

[via The Digital Picture]

 

Canon EOS-1D C 25p/4k Firmware Update Delayed

Canon EOS-1D C Firmware Update

Thanks to our reader Heinz.

The Canon EOS-1D C firmware update that was announced earlier will be available in April 2013. Canon Germany released a press communication (machine translated here). The update derives from feedback by European professional video community. The update will make the EOS-1D C able to shot 25p video footage at 4k resolution.

Canon EOS-1D C core specs:

  • 18.1Mp CMOS Sensor
  • 4K Cinematic Quality Video
  • 1920 x 1080 Full HD Video
  • Dual DIGIC 5+ Image Processors
  • 3.2″ LCD Screen
  • Eye-Level Pentaprism Viewfinder
  • Dual CF Card Recording Media
  • Canon EF Lens Mount
  • Magnesium Alloy Body
  • 61-Point High Density Auto Focus

The Canon EOS-1D C can be ordered at the following shops: B&H (click here) and Adorama (click here).

Canon EOS-1D C price check for your country: [shopcountry 4119]

Canon EOS-1D X Firmware 1.2.1 Available For Download

[shoplink 4119]New Canon EOS-1D X Firmware Released[/shoplink]

Canon made the firmware update for its [shoplink 4119]Canon EOS-1D X (price & specs)[/shoplink] available for download (click here). Select “Drivers and Software”, then you operating system, and then download the firmware.

Changes in firmware 1.2.1:

Firmware Version 1.2.1 incorporates the following improvements and fixes.

1. The function to disable the Image size selection button has been added. * Please see the instruction manual “EOS-1D X Firmware Version 1.2.x Additional Function” (PDF file) included in the downloaded firmware 1.2.1 folder for information on how to intentionally disable this button, after the firmware update 1.2.1 has been installed in the camera.

2. Fixes a phenomenon in which Err 70 and Err 80 may occur during certain shooting conditions. Firmware Version 1.2.1 is for cameras with firmware up to Version 1.1.1. If the camera’s firmware is already Version 1.2.1, it is not necessary to update the firmware.

The firmware update takes approximately seven minutes.


Canon EOS-1D X price check: [shopcountry 4119]

Three New Trendy PowerShot Camera Announced By Canon (ELPH 330HS, ELPH 115 IS, A5200)

Canon announced three new stylish compact camera: the WiFi-enabled ELPH 330 HS with 10x zoom, the ELPH 115 IS ad the A2500. All are available in black, silver and pink, the ELPH 115 IS also in blue. All feature ECO mode to save batter power. The ELPH 330 HS can shot with over 6fps. For more details and description of the cams see the press release below, after the pre-order links.

Ready to get pre-ordered at B&H, see below for the preorder links:

  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Black for $229 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Pink for $229 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Silver for $229 (click here)
  • ELPH 330 HS specifications:
    • 12.1MP CMOS Sensor
    • Canon 10x Optical Zoom Lens
    • 35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 24-240mm
    • 3.0″ LCD Monitor
    • Continuous Shooting Rate of 6.2fps
    • Full HD 1920 x 1080 Video
    • Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity
    • DIGIC 5 Image Processor
    • Intelligent IS Image Stabilization
    • Canon HS SYSTEM

     

  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 115 IS Black for $169 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 115 IS Blue for $169 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 115 IS Pink for $169 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 115 IS Silver for $169 (click here)
  • ELPH 115 IS specifications:
    • 16.0MP Image Sensor
    • DIGIC 4 Image Processor
    • Canon 8x Optical Zoom Lens
    • 35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 28-224mm
    • 2.7″ LCD Monitor
    • HD 1280 x 720p Video
    • Smart AUTO Modes
    • Intelligent IS Image Stabilization
    • Power Saving ECO Mode

     

  • Canon PowerShot A2500 Black for $129 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot A2500 Silver for $129 (click here)
  • Canon PowerShot A2500 Red for $129 (click here)
  • A2500 specifications:
    • 16.0MP Image Sensor
    • Canon 5x Optical Zoom Lens
    • 35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 28-140mm
    • 2.7″ LCD Monitor
    • HD 1280 x 720p Video
    • Digital IS Image Stabilization
    • Smart AUTO Modes
    • Scene Modes and Help Button
    • Power Saving ECO Mode
    • DIGIC 4 Image Processor

     

Canon's press release:

Canon U.S.A. Introduces Three New Stylish PowerShot Digital Cameras Providing Wide-Angle And Long Telephoto Lenses In Compact Designs

New Lineup Includes the Wireless-Enabled PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Digital Camera With a Powerful 10x Optical Zoom Lens

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 28, 2013 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the addition of three stylish, feature-packed PowerShot Digital Cameras: the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS, ELPH 115 IS and A2500. These new models are ideal for photography enthusiasts of all levels looking for great photo quality and excellent video performance in compact, powerful point-and-shoot designs.

 

The new PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera provides advanced wireless connectivity for easy sharing. Providing great performance in dimly lit situations, the ELPH 330 HS digital camera includes the Company's HS SYSTEM that delivers clear images with minimal noise and maximum detail even when shooting in low-light. The new cameras offer great features such as Canon's Smart AUTO, enabling even novice users to get optimal camera performance automatically, so whether photographing a running child or a solo recital on stage the cameras deliver spectacular images with ease. Smart AUTO allows the cameras to detect up to 58 scenes for the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera and up to 32 scenes for the PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera and PowerShot A2500 digital camera. All three models also feature ECO Mode, an advanced new method that manages power consumption and extends battery life by approximately 30 percent, when enabled, allowing you to shoot more photos for a longer amount of time.

“With the introduction of these sleek, new models to our family of PowerShot digital cameras, we are able to provide our customers with a range of imaging options including more models with wireless connectivity to upload and share their amazing creative images,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Digital Camera

Photography today is as much about image quality as it is about sharing, whether through prints or online communities. With this in mind, the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera builds upon the success of the PowerShot line with built-in advanced wireless capabilities to easily share high-quality images captured with an impressive 10x optical zoom lens and 12.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor. After an initial one-time set-up, the camera can connect to both iOS® or Android smartphones and tabletsi for quick and easy sharing. Users launch Canon's free CameraWindow applicationii, available on both the iOS® and Android operating systemsi, to wirelessly transfer photos and videos from the camera to their device. Frequently used devices and accounts are conveniently stored in the camera's wireless history menu for quick one-touch access.

With these enhanced wireless capabilities, users now have the ability to comment on their uploaded photos directly from the camera – so being part of conversations taking place on social networking sites is easy and convenient. In addition, individuals can control the destination of Facebook uploads – choosing to share content with everyone, or post photos only to selected Facebook groups. Users can also instantly upload images wirelessly from the camera to Canon iMAGE GATEWAYiii, and automatically upload them to a computer remotely. Photos can also be printed wirelessly using Wireless PictBridgeiv on select Canon wireless inkjet printers, including the new PIXMA MG6320 Photo All-In-One printer, so special moments can be preserved and cherished.

A fantastic multipurpose lens: the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera provides a 10x optical zoom lens taking images from 24mm wide, up to 240mm at the telephoto end, able to capture that group shot, or zoom in for a dynamic close-up. Great even in low light, the camera's 12.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor combine and deliver on Canon's HS SYSTEM helping ensure detail is captured even in dark or shadowed areas at a maximum ISO speed of up to 6400. For capturing memorable moments on video, at the touch of a dedicated movie-record button, the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera shoots beautiful 1080p Full HD video and includes a built-in stereo microphone for great sound. Helping document vacations with your own personal highlight reel, the camera's new Hybrid AUTO mode utilizes a combination of Smart AUTO and Intelligent IS to create a beautiful and steady HD video clip (up to approximately 4 seconds) in Movie Digest mode every time you shoot a still image. Helping ensure you don't miss those magic moments, the camera features both High Speed AF for fast focusing speed and High-Speed Burst for continuous capture at up to 6.2 frames per second while maintaining superb image quality. The combination of features, including wireless connectivity, Canon's Intelligent IS system and ECO Mode, help make the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera a great imaging companion for vacations, all-day sporting events, or family parties.

Expected to hit store shelves in March, the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera will be available in three modern colors: black, silver and pink for an estimated retail price of $229.99.

PowerShot ELPH 115 IS Digital Camera

The new pocket-able PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera features an 8x optical zoom lens (28-224mm), which provides a focal range to capture most any situation. The PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera includes a 16-megapixel image sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor for exceptional image quality. For those photographers who “shoot it all” and seamlessly move from scene to scene, the PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera provides Canon's Smart AUTO mode that intelligently selects the proper camera settings based on up to 32 predefined shooting situations for capturing spectacular images in a variety of settings with ease. For creative video capture, users can record HD video with a built-in microphone for great sound. The PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera also includes Canon's unique Intelligent IS system technology, matching the lens movement with one of six stabilization modes for smooth video and sharp still images. The camera also includes Canon's new ECO Mode allowing you to shoot more photos for a longer amount of time.

With anticipated in-store availability in March, the PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera will available in four sleek colors: blue, silver, black and pink at an estimated retail price of $169.99.

PowerShot A2500 Digital Camera

Rounding out Canon's new PowerShot lineup is the PowerShot A2500 digital camera, which includes a 16-megapixel image sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor, as well as a 28mm wide-angle lens with 5x optical zoom that can extend out to 140mm at the telephoto end. The camera also features Canon's Smart AUTO mode that analyzes each scene to intelligently select camera settings based on 32 predefined shooting scenarios to help capture stunning images with ease. The PowerShot A2500 digital camera can also capture great video, recording HD through a dedicated movie button. Helping ensure crisp images, Canon's Digital IS reduces the effect of camera shake and subject movement. For travelers and those on the go, Canon's new ECO Mode conserves battery life, allowing you to shoot more photos over a longer period of time. For those photographers looking to be a little more creative, the camera also features various Scene Modes such as Fisheye Effect, Toy Camera Effect and Monochrome to help provide additional creative freedom when capturing your photos. And for those just learning the art of photography, a Help Button will provide simple explanations of camera settings and functions.

Expected for sale in April, the PowerShot A2500 digital camera will be available in silver, red and black for an estimated retail price of $129.99.