Ever since Sony released their first full-frame mirrorless camera in 2013, I have been wanting to make the switch from DSLR to mirrorless. But I did not want to switch to Sony, for a handful of reasons. Some of which are: The camera is built on the Minolta system, which to me is a turnoff. (Here come the hater comments). You see, I used to work at a large camera warranty company and could see first hand how poorly made Minolta cameras were, how poorly made Sony cameras were. Yes, Sony has evolved over the years, and they’re much (much) … [Read more...] about My move to mirrorless
mirrorless
Nikon Z6 first impressions
Before picking up the Nikon Z6, I had some doubts about the new Z system Nikon created. First and foremost is the elephant so obviously in the room. The single card slot that only accepts an XQD card, and soon a CFexpress card. Fortunately, CFexpress will make memory cards less expensive for the Z system. The new camera bodies also have a new lens mount to go with it. Which means you cannot use Nikon’s classic lens collection on the new bodies natively. Sure, they’ll work. But you have to use the Nikon FTZ adapter. That converts the F mount … [Read more...] about Nikon Z6 first impressions
2019 WPPI trade show interview: Fujifilm
https://youtu.be/01rTHDT8550?rel=0 The Photofocus team attended the 2019 WPPI Conference and had a chance to walk the trade show floor, attend classes and join in on photowalks. During a break, I met up with Fujifilm representative Michael Bulbenko and Hollywood photographer Mike Kubeisy to talk about how the super quiet mirrorless cameras are used on a production set. … [Read more...] about 2019 WPPI trade show interview: Fujifilm
LUMIX releases specs of full-frame S series cameras
Last fall, LUMIX announced its new full frame cameras, the S1 and S1R, which will feature a new L-Mount lens collaboration between LUMIX, Leica and Sigma. Early this morning, LUMIX came out with more information about both cameras. Let me give you the big details up front, and you can read the entire release below. S1R, 47.3 megapixels Boasting a full 36x24mm sensor, the S1R offers the highest resolution of any full-frame mirrorless camera on the market. Plus, the high-resolution mode — which combines multiple frames into a single raw file — … [Read more...] about LUMIX releases specs of full-frame S series cameras
Electronic vs. optical: The viewfinder showdown
When the Olympus OM-D E-M1X was announced, the argument over electronic viewfinder (EVF) vs. optical viewfinders (OVF) came up in a lot of my conversations. Those of us who have been mirrorless users for a while have surely gotten used to our EVF, but it's one of the biggest concerns I hear from those photographers who have a DSLR system, which employs an OVF. And I hear those concerns. As a person who ditched the world of full-frame DSLRs nearly two years ago for a mirrorless, micro four-thirds sensor, I had the same worries. It took me a bit … [Read more...] about Electronic vs. optical: The viewfinder showdown
An in-depth look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1X
Early this morning, Olympus revealed its new flagship camera — the OM-D E-M1X. There’s quite a bit of hype over what this camera can do, and I was lucky enough to have a pre-release copy that I used for about five weeks. Being that several camera manufacturers introduced mirrorless cameras last year, many expected Olympus to embrace the full-frame mirrorless market. But as I discussed with them at the PhotoPlus Expo back in October, Olympus is 100% committed to the micro four-thirds mirrorless realm. The E-M1X shows how Olympus has invested … [Read more...] about An in-depth look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1X
Olympus announces E-M1X, flash, super telephoto lens and more
Click here to read my in-depth review on the new OM-D E-M1X. Olympus has announced the E-M1X, the latest in its line of OM-D cameras. Sporting a built-in vertical grip and features like Handheld High Res Shot and Live ND mode, Olympus is clearly gearing this camera toward working professionals. The E-M1X is seen as a parallel offering to the E-M1 Mark II, Olympus’ flagship camera for the last few years. It features the same 20.4MP micro four-thirds sensor and has a very familiar look and feel, with the added benefit of a vertical … [Read more...] about Olympus announces E-M1X, flash, super telephoto lens and more
Photographing advertising with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the final article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Click here to read my previous article, discussing the use of the camera for portraiture. In addition to corporate events, I also shoot some corporate promotional — also known as advertising — photography. These images are used on a wide array of mediums, including websites, brochures, mailers, billboards and more. Corporate advertising That's right — I said billboards. Despite having a 20-megapixel sensor, my photographs have ended up on … [Read more...] about Photographing advertising with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Photographing portraits with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the third article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Click here to read my previous article, discussing the use of the camera for landscapes. In my final article, I'll discuss using the camera for advertising. I photograph a lot of different types of portraits. Just a few weeks ago, I was hired to photograph the downtown tree lighting, which involved me taking photographs of Santa, Mrs. Claus and guests at a rapid pace. But I've also shot several corporate portraits, and a few family portraits as … [Read more...] about Photographing portraits with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Photographing landscapes with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the second article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Click here to read my first article, discussing the use of the camera for events. In future articles, I'll discuss using the camera for portraiture and advertising. While my bread and butter might be event photography, in my spare time I photograph landscapes and travel imagery. Everything from long exposures to walking the streets, I love to photograph it. Landscapes (and some cityscapes) When I started out doing nighttime long exposures with my … [Read more...] about Photographing landscapes with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Photographing events with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
This is the first article in a four-part series discussing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. In future articles, I'll discuss using the camera for landscapes, portraiture and advertising. Earlier this year, I was lucky enough to win an Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, and I've since made it my camera of choice. After photographing exclusively with it for nine months, I feel like I've got a good grasp of the capabilities of the camera. I couldn't be happier with my Olympus system. I now have a second body for backup purposes, plus a plethora of … [Read more...] about Photographing events with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Early Black Friday savings from Olympus
Cyber Monday Specials from B&H. Click this link to go shopping! Olympus is offering some great deals on its cameras, lenses and various accessories! In addition to the deals below, Olympus is offering 2x rewards on purchases made through Dec. 19, 2018, on getolympus.com, as well as free 2-day shipping on orders over $50. To learn more and see all the Olympus Black Friday deals, visit getolympus.com. Note that freebies mentioned are only guaranteed to be available through getolympus.com, but pricing will be honored by other authorized … [Read more...] about Early Black Friday savings from Olympus
Early Black Friday savings from Panasonic Lumix
Cyber Monday Specials from B&H. Click here for the deals! Black Friday Specials from B&H. Click this link to go shopping! Panasonic has started to offer some amazing deals on its cameras, lenses and accessories. Below is just a sampling of the deals being offered through Dec. 1, 2018; click here to see more. Cameras and bundles GH5S Body only: $200 off; now $2299.99 GH5 Body only: $500 off; now $1499.99 GH5 with Leica 12-60mm lens: $200 off; now $2399.99 G9 Body only: $400 off; now $1299.99 G9 with Leica 12-60mm … [Read more...] about Early Black Friday savings from Panasonic Lumix
Ten reasons why I love my Fuji X-T3
My new Fuji X-T3 just arrived. I am so excited. The camera was only just released last week. I have barely used it and I am already "in love." Of course I am a tried and true Fuji fan, having walked away from my Nikon D800 a few years back. So I am probably biased. Time will tell if the camera truly lives up to its hype. 1. A newly developed fourth generation sensor — the X-Trans CMOS 4 I am clueless what the upgrade to the sensor actually means in technical terms. The sensor is now back-illuminated — I read that a back-illuminated sensor … [Read more...] about Ten reasons why I love my Fuji X-T3
Huge news from Lumix: New cameras, new lenses, new system
Panasonic has announced a new line of full-frame mirrorless cameras, a new lens mount, a new lens for micro four-thirds and the new Lumix Pro Services. Let's take a look at the new tools and the impact they could have. S1 and S1R, 24 megapixels and 47 megapixels The S1 and S1R area completely new, but they are the next evolution in mirrorless cameras from Lumix. Lumix has been building mirrorless cameras for 10 years and these cameras promise to build on that legacy. They are already refined and have the features photographers and … [Read more...] about Huge news from Lumix: New cameras, new lenses, new system
Canon EOS R pre-orders are live!
Canon just released its EOS R cameras, lenses and accessories for pre-order. You can learn more about Canon's entry into the full-frame mirrorless camera world here. Below are links to order through B&H: Camera Canon EOS R Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) Canon EOS R Mirrorless Digital Camera with 24-105mm Lens RF Mount Lenses Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM Lens Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM Lens Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens RF Mount Adapters Mount Adapter EF-RF … [Read more...] about Canon EOS R pre-orders are live!
Canon announces full-frame mirrorless EOS R camera
Fresh off the heels of Nikon announcing its full-frame Z series camera lineup, Canon has announced its first full-frame mirrorless camera system — the EOS R. What are your thoughts on the new Canon EOS R? Sound off in the comments below! The new mirrorless system features a 54mm RF mount, allowing for a shorter back focus distance. This lets the lens sit closer to the sensor, allowing for fast, sharp and more compact lenses. The RF mount features a high-speed 12-pin communication system and is designed for full compatibility with existing … [Read more...] about Canon announces full-frame mirrorless EOS R camera
Seven tips for killer hunting pictures
As a new hunter, I've been devouring so much information available out there about hunting and I realized that I can contribute back by sharing some simple ideas to help hunters make better pictures. There are so many traditions and beautiful landscapes surrounding hunting that you should really take advantage of the opportunity to make pictures and record memories. These tips will help you do it more effectively and more creatively, and they'll actually serve you well anytime you're traveling with others. Get ready You're likely hunting … [Read more...] about Seven tips for killer hunting pictures
Nikon Z Event streaming live Friday, August 24, 2018
Nikon is doing a live event today at noon on their new mirrorless cameras. Watch the live stream here. … [Read more...] about Nikon Z Event streaming live Friday, August 24, 2018
First Look: The new Nikon Z 7 mirrorless camera
Now that the cat is out of the bag and I've had a chance to reflect on Nikon's mirrorless system announcement, here a few initial thoughts. It is still roughly a month away from the Z 7 being released, which Nikon is putting up against Sony's flagship A7R III. Has Nikon come up with a complete game-changer? Or is the Z 7 just another mirrorless camera in the market? Here's an initial closer look... Key specs The Z 7 is a 45.7-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera. It's capable of shooting up to 9 fps stills and 4K video at 30p. The Z 7 has … [Read more...] about First Look: The new Nikon Z 7 mirrorless camera
Breaking: Nikon announces entry into mirrorless with Z 6, Z 7 cameras
It's official — Nikon has announced its entry into mirrorless cameras with the Z 6 and Z 7 camera bodies. The Z 6 packs a 24.5-megapixel sensor, while the Z 7 has 45.7 megapixels. While the cameras are virtually the same on the exterior (minus the Z 6 and Z 7 branding), the internals feature some important distinctions. Nikon's new mount, the Z-mount, is Nikon's first new lens mount since 1959 when it introduced the F-series lenses that are still current on their DSLR cameras. It promises to deliver better reliability and higher performance, … [Read more...] about Breaking: Nikon announces entry into mirrorless with Z 6, Z 7 cameras
Nikon to announce mirrorless system tonight
Update: Nikon has revealed the Z 6 and Z 7 camera bodies, as well as various lenses and accessories. Click here to read more. Nikon is set to reveal its two rumored mirrorless cameras — the Z 6 and Z 7 — tonight, at 9 p.m. PT. The Z 6 is rumored to be a 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera, while the Z 7 clocks in at 45 megapixels. The new cameras are said to use a new mount — the Z-mount — marking the first new mount developed by Nikon since the 1959 F-mount. In addition to the cameras, Nikon is also said to introduce a 35mm, … [Read more...] about Nikon to announce mirrorless system tonight
What does a “professional” camera really mean?
Last week, Tony and Chelsea Northrup posted a controversial video on YouTube that tried to define what a professional camera was. It centers around sales for all of the camera manufacturers. It makes some good points about how higher-end cameras can enhance a photograph. That being said, for the most part making a great photograph is not about the camera — it's about the photographer. While there are certainly cameras geared more towards professionals, including features that pros tend to take more advantage of, it doesn't mean that you … [Read more...] about What does a “professional” camera really mean?
The age of the mirrorless camera starts now
Full-frame 35mm cameras. Medium-format cameras. Micro four-thirds cameras. These are formats. There are only two types of digital cameras themselves — Single Lens Reflex and Mirrorless. The evolution of cameras has evolved over the past 100 years, and we're about to enter a new generation, with Nikon and Canon both getting ready to reveal full-frame mirrorless camera systems. While the mirrorless system has been around for 14 years, it has only recently started taking off. The first mirrorless camera was made by a company which is more … [Read more...] about The age of the mirrorless camera starts now
Quick Tip: Sunny Day? Mirrorless Shooters, Review the Photo in Your Viewfinder
One of the best advantages to mirrorless cameras is its electronic viewfinder. This not only gives you an accurate preview of your shot before you click the shutter button — it also allows you to preview your images through the viewfinder, not just the screen on the back. This is great for sunny days, allowing you to check exposure and focus without the need for a loupe. … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Sunny Day? Mirrorless Shooters, Review the Photo in Your Viewfinder
It’s Not About the Camera — It’s About Evolving as an Artist
When I first ventured into photography, I started out with a Nikon D5100. From there I upgraded to a D800 (thanks to winning a Photofocus contest on Twitter) and later a D750. Last year I made the tough decision to go mirrorless, ultimately purchasing a Panasonic Lumix GH5 and eventually, a G9. Now I've made another switch. And it's not because I was dissatisfied with my Lumix gear — quite the contrary, in fact. My Lumix system was awesome, and one of the best decisions I've made to switch to them. But after a week of tough thinking, I've … [Read more...] about It’s Not About the Camera — It’s About Evolving as an Artist
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Take Advantage Of Silent Shutter
Many DSLR's have a Quiet Mode. One way this is done is by separating the sound of the shutter from the slap of the mirror. When you press the shutter button the mirror flips up and the shutter is fired, exposing the image. But then the mirror doesn't flip down until you remove your finger from the shutter button. This works surprisingly well to make your camera not sound like a camera and it's far less distracting in quiet situations--I've even photographed live ballet performances this way without ruining the show. Silent Mode Trumps Quiet … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Take Advantage Of Silent Shutter
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: The Wrong ( Or Right) Reason to Buy Mirrorless
I was out making pictures with three other photographers, yesterday--just a random assortment of friends--and all of us were using mirrorless cameras and that's the first time I've been out with a group and no one had a DSLR. We took a short hike to a waterfall and as we walked everyone remarked once that they loved how much lighter their mirrorless systems are, which is always a big selling point. But I think getting into mirrorless because it's lighter would be a mistake. It's Not About Weight We're photographers, not adventure racers … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: The Wrong ( Or Right) Reason to Buy Mirrorless
Stories from the Set-How Jamie MacDonald uses Olympus Technology
Vanelli travels across the country, talking to some of the top photographers in the field as they share their experiences while shooting on set. You'll soon learn that even season professionals encounter roadblocks during photo shoots. By staying calm under pressure, they rely on their skills to overcome these obstacles to capture an amazing shot. Sit back, relax and enjoy a Story from the Set. Olympus Visionary and educator Jamie MacDonald shares a story on how the newest technology from Olympus has influenced his photography. In this … [Read more...] about Stories from the Set-How Jamie MacDonald uses Olympus Technology
Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Shoot Black and White
Possibly the greatest feature of mirrorless cameras is that they can show you exactly how your picture will appear before you press the shutter (see this column). You should leverage this unique ability to truly see the world in black and white. Set the camera to Monochrome mode, choose the right settings, and you'll be amazed at what you can learn. Choose Monochrome + Filters Go to your camera's picture style settings, often in a quick menu, and you'll see an option for monochrome. You can use this, but you'll just get gray pictures. … [Read more...] about Mirrorless Camera Maniac: Shoot Black and White
