REVIEW: Think Tank Photo TurnStyle™ Sling Bags (SPECIAL OFFER)

These bags are extremely lightweight and hold a surprising amount of gear plus a tablet!

A while back I did a product announcement about the release of these cool new sling bags by Think Tank Photo, and my inbox filled up quickly with people asking to learn more about these bags. I shot a quick email to TTP and before I knew it I had the TurnStyle™ 10 & 20 at my doorstep ready to review.

Over the last few weeks I’ve been living with these bags to see if they were any good. My prior experience with sling bags from all brands has been terrible. Generally the bags didn’t protect my gear well and/or they hurt the hell out of my shoulder after a typical outing. TTP’s, previous attempt at a sling bag, the Sling-O-Matic, was very well done but still not something that won me over.

TurnStyle 20 Inside Look (Photo: ThinkTankPhoto.com)

In real-world use, I found myself wishing that the TurnStyle™ 10 would work, but it was too small for my gear. If I had a X-Pro1 or X-E1, then I’d definitely use the 10, but I don’t so I kept reaching for the TurnStyle™ 20. It’s super lightweight and easily fit my DSLR with a standard telephoto zoom, flash and extra zoom lens. I also loved that I could carry along a tablet and other goodies.

Photos can’t really capture the inside of these bags very well so check out the videos to learn more. If you only watch one, watch the TurnStyle™ 20 video review at the bottom of this article.

Video Reviews

Please note that these videos were filmed with a Canon 70D that was reviewing using the EF-S 55-250mm STM lens and the new FlexZone AF feature. My apologies for the occasional focus misses.

TurnStyle 10 or Click here to view on YouTube

TurnStyle 20 or Click here to view on YouTube

Conclusion

I’ve reviewed a lot of Think Tank Photo bags, so I have so many that I literally have a closet dedicated to them. I’ve gotten aggressive about not collecting any bags that I won’t realistically use, so if I only had to pick one I’d pick the TurnStyle™ 20. I’d really use it to, which is more than I can say for the Sling-O-Matic which lost favor after about a month due to its large size & weight. I might hang on to the TurnStyle™ 10 for when I eventually bite the bullet and pick up a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses, but I’d never use it for my DSLR.

Personally I found the 10 to be too cramped for a DSLR, unless you are using a 50mm, or you put it on its side as shown in the photo at the top of this article (shown with a 70-200mm lens attached). That configuration works fine with the 5D Mark III, but I find it less useful as it means you can either bring an extra lens or flash – but not both. I always have both.

I would love to see the interior dividers include fold down flaps to more easy accommodate the lens down configuration I show in the video.

The TurnStyle™ 20 is my winner of this comparison for DSLR owners, and it’s a bag that I’ll definitely be putting into service for short run usage. I highly recommend the TurnStyle™ 20.

Where to order

Click here to learn more and get FREE SHIPPING plus a FREE GIFT when you place your order!

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these:

• Learn more about Think Tank Photo Special Offer Details and read my other reviews
  
• BlackRapid SnapR Camera Bag + Sling Strap – better for compact cameras like the x100s, x20, etc… if you prefer a sling, else see below
  
• Think Tank Photo Mirrorless Mover

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this. I was also provide with these bags to evaluate by Think Tank Photo under no obligation.

REVIEW: Canon 70D First Look with Real World Sample Photos

Canon EOS 70D DSLR Camera

The Canon 40D holds a special place in my heart because I have long considered it to be the best xxD series camera that Canon has ever released – until now.

For years I’ve been telling 40D owners to ignore the new camera bodies and focus on getting great lenses because the 50D, 60D and even 7D sensor failed to impress me enough to recommend that my readers toss out an excellent camera for one that offered little extra.

Will my advice changes as I hold in my hand a possible replacement for the 40D, 50D, and 60D? This camera has all of the charm of the 40D, with all of the technological advancements that have accumulated in its predecessors over the years. What’s more, even cool things like the flip out touch screen from the Rebel T5i have arrived. Read on to see if this camera ends up being “the one” as well as a worthy competitor to the mighty Nikon D7100.

Real World Sample Images

These are taken from in-camera JPEG’s with zero modifications taken during everyday life events. Nearly all were taken in Aperture Priority (Av) mode unless otherwise noted, and all were handheld. The goal of these samples is to show you exactly what you’d expect to get if you were taking your own real world shots.

Visit http://photos.ronmartblog.com/canon/70D for a full gallery and click the images to see the full-size originals. All images are copyright Ron Martinsen – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. You may view them, but you may not store, edit, print, distribute or otherwise reuse any images without written consent.

Great detail and nice bokeh
f/2.8 @ 41 mm, 1/80, ISO 500, No Flash (24-70mm f/2.8L II)

ISO 5000? No problem
f/9 @ 70 mm, 1/80, ISO 5000, No Flash

Gorgeous color even at ISO 1600
f/4 @ 67 mm, 1/60, ISO 1600, No Flash

Impressive Evaluative Metering
f/2.8 @ 28 mm, 1/60, ISO 1250, No Flash

f/4 @ 33 mm, 1/80, ISO 2000, No Flash

I remember having to use spot metering on my 1D Mark III to get this shot,
but the 70D had no trouble using Evaluative metering mode
f/2.8 @ 50 mm, 1/60, ISO 1600, No Flash

Plenty details in this long exposure shot
f/11 @ 24 mm, 5s, ISO 100, No Flash

Not shabby for ISO 12,800!
f/5.6 @ 24 mm,1/50, ISO 12800, No Flash

Noisy, but usable at ISO 10,000
f/5.6 @ 30 mm, 1/60, ISO 10000, No Flash

Tough backlit scenario turned out okay even though I accidentally
had forgotten my camera in Shade White Balance mode
f/2.8 @ 70 mm, 1/60, ISO 5000, No Flash

ISO 10,000 is okay, but nothing spectacular
f/2.8 @ 70 mm, 1/80, ISO 10000, No Flash

f/2.8 @ 30 mm, 1/200, ISO 100, No Flash, –2 EV

All of the images shown above were captured using my Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II lens.

Conclusion

Click here for Part II, more photos and my conclusion

Where to order

Click here to order the Canon 70D on the B&H web site. Adorama has it available to order as well.

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these:

• Canon 5D Mark III First Look (For Parents Version)
• Canon 6D (vs Canon 5DM3 & D600)
• Canon Rebel T5i/700D
• Canon EOS M
• Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM Pancake Lens
• Canon 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye Zoom
• Canon 24-70 f/2.8L II (vs 24-70 f/4L IS Comparison)
• Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM First Look
• Canon 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS vs 70-300 f/4.5-5.6 DO
• Canon 200-400mm f/4L IS with 1.4X Extender
• Nikon D7100
• Which camera should I buy?
• Things You Need AFTER You Buy Your New Camera - Must Have Photography Accessories

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this.

B&H did loan this camera to me so that I can review it for you.

Long-Term Report: Canon PIXMA PRO-1 (Review Part II)

Canon PIXMA PRO-1 Photo Printer (Adorama, Amazon, and B&H)

Today is the 1 year anniversary date that I’ve been using my Canon PIXMA PRO-1 printer, so I thought I’d follow up with a long-term report about how I’ve enjoyed this printer over the last year. Here’s the first two articles I’ve done about this printer in case you’d like to catch up on the prior articles before reading this sequel:

• REVIEW: Canon PIXMA PRO-1–Part I
• Which Printer Should I Buy? Epson or Canon?

New Firmware & Drivers

If you’ve are a PRO-1 owner and haven’t upgraded your firmware yet, now is the time to do so. Readers in the United States can update here:

http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/standard_display/PRO-1_firmware_upgrade

This update adds better default color, increased printable area (5mm closer to the paper edge), Canvas media setting, and improve messaging about the ink levels.

After your firmware is updated, nice links are included to get all of your drivers and software up to date as well.

Living with the PRO-1

While this isn’t the speediest printer in the world, I enjoyed using this printer. It’s been reliable with no clogged print heads which even included a long-term endurance test where I did not run the printer for 6 months (due to testing of other products). I was able to fire the printer up, replace a few inks that were low, print a test pattern (which came clean) and print without any problems. I can’t go a week without massive head clogs in my Epson 4900, so this is a really big deal!

It’s Ink Thirsty

The ink consumption never improved on the second set of inks, so I’d classify this as a thirsty printer when it comes to ink. It’s small cartridges mean that you are going to go through one to two boxes of ink each year in what I’d call light duty usage. The inks don’t deplete evenly either, so you’ll want a box of all inks handy at all times. This makes this a rather expensive printer to operate compared to models with larger ink tanks.

Great Profile Availability

Even more so than most other printers, you’ll want to always use printer profiles for your papers rather than choosing “Printer Manages Color”. I felt the printer managed color was too green and not to my liking.

One area where Epson rules is the availability of great paper profiles for nearly every paper on the planet, but Canon has done a phenomenal job of working with paper distributors to have great printer profiles readily available. In fact, during my year of testing there wasn’t a single case where I had to generate my own paper profile for third party papers. This was a pleasant surprise for a printer that hasn’t been on the market all that long.

Photoshop CC

Using the latest firmware, I had no problems printing from my Windows 7 system using both the XPS and standard OS driver in the latest version of Photoshop CC (14.1.1 x64) at the time this article was written. I had printed using my Macbook Pro with Snow Leopard with the previous driver and had no problems, but I didn’t test on the Mac with the latest firmware simply because the Mac is not part of my standard print workflow.

My preference was for the standard OS driver and most often I was pleased with Perceptual as the rendering intent (whereas on my Epson’s I use Relative Colormetric most often). I saw no obvious advantage to the XPS driver.

Lightroom 5 Support

Using the latest firmware, I had no problems printing from my Windows 7 system using both the XPS and standard OS driver in the latest version of Lightroom (5.2) at the time this article was written. I had printed using my Macbook Pro with Snow Leopard with the previous driver and had no problems, but I didn’t test on the Mac with the latest firmware simply because the Mac is not part of my standard print workflow.

4x6 Prints

One area where the cheapo small printers shine and larger printers tend to fail is in handling small 4x6” prints. I’m pleased to say the PRO-1 makes printing this size paper fairly hassle free. Here’s an article that shows you how to do it:

• Getting Great 4x6 Prints Without Any Hassle–Part I of II

Conclusion

Overall I’ve been happy with my Canon PIIXMA PRO-1 printer. It’s been reliable and produces great results on the papers using the sizes that I care about.

It’s a very large printer so I’ve had to put it on the floor of my studio instead of a more ideal desktop location. This seems to translate into great build quality though as this printer is built like a tank.

The absence of a front panel LCD really bugs me when I’m changing inks, but the rest of the time the software tools for alerting me to matters that need my attention have been fine. I still wish Canon would add a small and cheap display, plus throw in wireless to make it as easy to use as the Canon consumer multifunction printers.

As a print master with both Epson and Canon printer experience, I’ve been very satisfied with both the color and B&W prints made with this printer. They are every bit as good as what I get with my Epson and large format Canon printers.

My future feedback for Canon would be to make this printer have a smaller footprint, weigh less, add wireless networking and large capacity print tanks. With these issued addressed, I think this could be a compelling choice for people retiring their older Epson printers.

Where to order

Please support this blog by buying your Canon PRO-1 Photo Printer at Adorama, Amazon, or B&H using links from this blog. NOTE: Your cart must be empty before clicking the links for me to get credit. Thanks for your support!

You can also now purchase the PIXMA PRO-1 direct from Canon and get FREE shipping when you use the coupon code SHIP75 and order more than $75 USD worth of products. Click the image below and search for PRO-1 to learn more:

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these:

• Choosing the right Canon printer
• REVIEW: Canon PIXMA PRO-1–Part I
• Canon PRO-10 Review
• Which Printer Should I Buy? Epson or Canon?
• Getting Great 4x6 Prints Without Any Hassle–Part I of II
• Printing Series 
• Lucia EX Ink Rain Test
• Canon Fine Art Bright White 330gsm Review
• Canon Premium RC Luster Photographic Glossy Paper Review & Tutorial
• Canon 1D Mark IV New Users Guide / Shoppers Guide
• Canon 1D X (Real World Usage)
• Canon 5D Mark III First Look (For Parents Version)
• Canon 6D (vs Canon 5DM3 & D600)
• Canon EOS M
• Canon 600EX-RT Flash First Look (ST-E3 RT)
• Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM Pancake Lens
• Canon 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye Zoom
• Canon 24-70 f/2.8L II (vs 24-70 f/4L IS Comparison)
• Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM First Look
• Canon 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS vs 70-300 f/4.5-5.6 DO
• Canon 200-400mm f/4L IS with 1.4X Extender
• Canon G1X vs G12 vs Fujifilm X10
• Canon G15 vs s110 vs G12
• Canon Rebel T5i/700D
• Canon iPF6400/6450 vs iPF6300/6350 Comparison
• Canon SX-80 Pro Photography Projector

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this.

NEC Adds Quick Print Emulation to MultiProfiler 1.2+

NEC has updated its MultiProfiler software (available at no charge for both Mac and PC for P & PA series displays). The latest version makes the previously obscure task of setting a paper profile to one of your Picture Modes to a ICC profile (for soft proofing) and makes it much easier now thanks to the Quick Print Emulation Wizard.

The following is an example run through of how it works on both Mac and Windows systems.

It starts off with an optional page that tells you about how to get the best results.

You are then asked for the output profile you want to emulate. In this case, I’m using a paper profile for my Canon PRO-1 printer. The profiles loaded are whatever you have installed on your system, so yes your printer is supported. You can also select profiles from alternate locations.

You can then choose the rendering intent you plan to use when you print your image, and I always check the simulate checkbox.

In this step you are asked what existing preset you wish to replace with this new setting, and a name is suggested based on your profile name. I accepted the default here, but normally I’d suggest a better name.

In the final step, notice how the previously Untitled Picture Mode now becomes the name you set on the previous page (Canon PRO 1 GL) with settings that simulate the profile you selected during the wizard.

This is cool because it helps you to better match what you see on the screen with what should come out of your printer (assuming you use the same print settings, and your printer is operating properly). It should be noted that if you use this feature you should NOT use any additional soft proofing in Lightroom, Photoshop, etc… as you’ll end up with double soft proofing which leads to inaccurate results.

It should be noted that this feature works best on wide color gamut NEC monitor models like the PA series. Less expensive models (P series, and others) effectively render a near sRGB color space so this feature will not work with those models.

Once you have this picture mode set up you can use it at any time without re-running the wizard, and you can replace it by running the wizard again.

Conclusion

While Photoshop’s soft proofing can be very good, it’s only as good as your monitor calibration. If you don’t have a properly calibrated display and have been struggling with soft proofing, this might be a great solution to help you better understand what your print will look to others before you hit print. It’s certainly handy when editing an image for a specific output type.

Once you have things set in place the Shortcuts feature of MultiProfiler can be used so you can quickly switch between picture modes without using this software directly.

North American users can get the update from http://www.necdisplay.com/support-and-services/multi-profiler/downloads.

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these:

• NEC PA Series Monitors (30" Display Review)
• New PA242W Backlit Display
• NEC SoundBar Pro Display Speakers
• NEC SpectraSensor Pro (powered by X-Rite)
• Printing Series
• Choosing The Right Display Calibration Device
• Which Printer Should I Buy? Epson or Canon?

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this.

Think Tank Photo Large Lens & Mindshift Gear Special Offers

Think Tank Photo Glass Taxi

Using a long lens for sideline shooting or birding this fall?  My friends at Think Tank Photo just announced a special offer on their two long lens backpacks, the Glass Taxi and the Glass Limo.  Should you order one of these backpacks between now and September 30^th, you can select to receive for free from among the following lens cases and pouches:  a Slim Changer, Lens Changer 25 V2.0, Lens Changer 50 V2.0, Lens Changer 75 Pop Down V2.0, or a Strobe Stuff.  When you place your order, a popup will show the Free Gift options.

The Glass Taxi holds up to a 500mm f/4 lens, 300mm f/2.8 lens with DSLR attached, or a DSLR with 70-200 attached with hood in position. I was one of my first and long time favorite bags until I got my Streetwalker Pro.

Think Tank Photo Glass Limo for up to 800mm f/5.6

The Glass Limo carries up to an 800 f/5.6, 600 f/4.0 unattached or a  500 f/4 with Pro body attached,  or an 800 5.6 with aftermarket neoprene lens cap , or a 200 - 400 f/4 with Pro body attached, or a standard pro kit with pro DSLR and 5-8 lenses.

I recently stuffed a 200-400mm into my Streetwalker HardDrive bag, but I think this bag might offers another choice for big lens shooters.  

Both backpacks are designed to hold these heaviest of lenses with stability and comfort. I can attest to this too because I’ve carried as much as 40 lbs in my Glass Taxi all day at a Formula One race, but it was comfortable (as 40lbs of gear can be <g>) and held up great.

Mindshift Gear Giveaway Kit (my review)

My friends at Think Tank Photo also just alerted me to a fun promotion their sister company, outdoor backpack company MindShift Gear, just announced.  MindShift is sponsoring free, on-fire random drawing called “Pack It In” where one lucky winner scores a rotation180° Professional Deluxe backpack loaded with cool covetable stuff, such as a Wimberley Head, an REI gift card, a Camelbak hydration bladder, and more. Here's your chance to score this mega-prize package valued in excess of $1,100!

Click here to enter the giveaway contest!

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these reviews:

• ThinkTankPhoto Bag Reviews Index & Special Offers
• MindShift Gear Rotation 180° - Hiking Camera Backpack
• Tripod Recommendations
• Canon 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS vs 70-300 f/4.5-5.6 DO
• Canon 200-400mm f/4L IS with 1.4X Extender

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this.

PRE-ORDER: Fujifilm X-A1, 16-50mm and 50-230mm lens released

Fujifilm X-A1 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens

FUJIFILM LAUNCHES THE X-A1, AN ENTRY-LEVEL CSC FEATURING

A 16.3 MP APS-C CMOS SENSOR AND POWERFUL EXR PROCESSOR II

New X-A1 offers entry into the premium X-Series while delivering outstanding image quality, modern design, sharp 3” tilting LCD screen and wireless image transfer

Valhalla, N.Y., September 17, 2013 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJIFILM X-A1 compact system camera (CSC), the fourth interchangeable lens system camera introduced within the award-winning FUJIFILM X-Series. The ultra-light

X-A1 gives consumers an affordable entry point into the X-Series line of digital cameras and delivers outstanding image quality using its large 16.3 Megapixel APS-C  CMOS sensor, easy operation and wireless image transfer for quick photo sharing.

Fujifilm X-A1 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens (Indigo Blue)

The FUJIFILM X-A1 kit will ship with the FUJINON XC16-50mm (24-76mm)*¹ F3.5-5.6 OIS zoom lens. The XC16-50mm is a versatile lens that is ideal for a wide range of photographic subjects, including clear low-light scenes, beautiful portraits and vivid landscapes. The lens consists of 12 all glass elements in 10 groups including 3 aspherical elements and 1 ED element. The lens features seven round-edged aperture blades, which offer 17 stops in 1/3 EV increments for precise aperture control.

“The lightweight X-A1 and versatile XC16-50mm lens combination gives consumers extraordinary value and the opportunity to experience the outstanding image quality that the X-Series is known for,” said Manny Almeida, senior vice president and general manager, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “Together with a high definition tilting screen and wireless image transfer, consumers of all skill levels can capture truly memorable images that can also be shared on Facebook and Twitter quickly and easily.”  

Large 16.3 Megapixel APS-C sensor and EXR Processor II

The FUJIFILM X-A1 uses an APS-C sensor and powerful EXR Processor II that captures rich tones, breath-taking dynamic range and stunning low-light images using its extended ISO range of up to 25600. With the X-A1, users can set the sensor sensitivity from ISO200 to as high as ISO6400 in 1/3 step increments, to obtain remarkably clear images even when shooting indoors and at night.

Together with the EXR Processor II, the X-A1 also gives customers fantastic speed with a start-up time of 0.5 seconds*², a shutter time lag of 0.05 seconds and a maximum burst speed of 5.6 frames per second (max. 30 frames*³). 

Compact performance and advanced features

The X-A1 CSC combines advanced features in a go-anywhere design. The X-A1 weighs just 11.6oz*⁴ and is about a third of the size of a traditional DSLR body. With a slim profile of 1.3” at its trimmest point, the X-A1 is easily carried anywhere.

The X-A1 also features a 3” tilting high resolution LCD screen with 920,000 dots for easy image viewing and framing at various angles. The 3” LCD monitor tilts at variable vertical angles, facilitating both low-angle and high-angle shots whether on or off a tripod. 

The X-A1 uses a built-in high precision flash, with the guide number 7*⁵, and Super Intelligent Flash technology that uses scene recognition and automatically controls flash strength to reduce highlight clipping.

Easy Image Transfer with WiFi^® button

The X-A1 includes a WiFi button that lets users transfer high quality photos and movies*6  to social media sites for easy sharing from the camera to smartphones, tablets and computers. 

To connect the X-A1 to a smartphone or tablet, users can download the free dedicated “FUJIFILM Camera Application” to their iPhone™ / iPad™ or Android™ smartphone or tablet device to transfer up to 30 pictures at a time from the X-A1. The app also lets users download movies, expanding the range of options available for enjoying pictures taken with the camera.

 Intuitive design and easy operation

The X-A1 has its key operation buttons and dials positioned on the right side of the camera’s rear panel for easy use and quick picture taking. The Mode Dial for selecting the optimum setting for each scene gives access to the Advanced SR Auto function, which automatically recognizes each scene and selects the best settings for sharp and clear images.

The Advanced Filter function and Film Simulation modes give users a range of creative filters and film effects to apply and achieve unique and artistic looks.  

FUJINON XC50-230mm (76-350mm) F4.5-6.7 OIS

Fujifilm XC 50-230mm f/4.5-6.7 OIS Lens

The all new FUJINON XC50-230mm (76-350mm) F4.5-6.7 OIS lens adds even more versatility to the X-Series line of compact system cameras by offering an expanded zoom range that delivers consistently outstanding optical performance throughout. The XC50-230mm uses optical image stabilization to ensure superb performance and effectively reduces blur when shooting at longer focal lengths and in low light.

FUJIFILM X-A1 key features list:

• 16.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• EXR Processor II
  • Start-up time of 0.5
  • Shutter lag time of 0.05
  • Shooting interval time of 0.7
• 3” (920K dot) tilting high resolution LCD screen
• Full range of ISO100 – ISO25600
• Wireless image transfer
• Q Menu shortcut button
• In-camera RAW processing
• Film Simulation modes (Velvia, ASTIA, PROVIA, Sepia, and Black & White)
• 8 Advanced Filters (Toy Camera, Miniature, Dynamic Tone, Pop Color, Soft Focus, High Key, Low Key and Partial Color)
• Multiple Exposure mode to superimpose a second exposure on the first exposure
• Full HD movie 1080P\30fps and built-in stereo microphone

Available accessories include: Leather Case, Hand Grip, and Clip-on Flash 

FUJINON XC16-50mm (24-76mm) F3.5-5.6 OIS

·       24-76mm equivalent F3.5-5.6 lens

·       Fully compatible with FUJIFILM X-Mount

·       12 all glass elements in 10 groups including 3 aspherical elements and 1 ED element

·       Seven round-edged aperture blades, which offer 17 stops in 1/3 EV steps 

FUJINON XC50-230mm (76-350mm) F4.5-6.7 OIS

·       76-350mm equivalent F4.5-6.7 lens

·       Fully compatible with FUJIFILM X-Mount

·       13 all glass elements in 10 groups including 1 aspherical lens and 1 ED element

·       Optical image stabilization that minimizes blur at longer focal lengths and in low light

·       A precision stepping motor for  high-speed autofocusing

·       Available in black and silver 

The FUJIFILM X-A1 and XC16-50mm (24-76mm) F3.5-5.6 OIS lens (kit) will be available in September 2013 for $599.95 in black and indigo blue.

The FUJINON XC50-230mm (76-350mm) F4.5-6.7 OIS lens will be available in November 2013 for $399.95. 

The FUJIFILM X-A1 uses the same FUJIFILM X-Mount as the X-Pro1, X-E1 and X-M1, and all FUJIFILM XF and XC lenses will work with all X-Series interchangeable lens cameras.

The current Fujifilm lens family includes the following FUJINON XF and XC lenses:

• XF 14mm F2.8
• XF 18mm F2.0
• XF 23mm F1.4
• XF 27mm F2.8
• XF 35mm F1.4
• XF 60mm F2.4
• XF 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 OIS
• XF 55-200mm F3.5-4.8 OIS
• XC 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OIS

*1 35mm format equivalent

*2 Quick Start mode

*3 Maximum number of frames can be shot in JPEG setting, using a “Class 10” or higher SD card

*4 Including the battery and memory card, excluding the lens

*5 ISO200・m; When shooting at ISO200, the light reaches a subject up to (7/F number) meters away

*6 FUJIFILM Camera Application for iOS can save movie files up to 1280 x 720

About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings America Corporation consists of four operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division provides consumer and commercial photographic products and services, including: photographic paper; digital printing equipment, along with service and support; personalized photo products; film; and one-time-use cameras; and also markets motion picture archival film and on-set color management solutions to the motion picture, broadcast and production industries. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the graphic printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides optical lenses for the broadcast, cinematography, closed circuit television, videography and industrial markets, and also markets binoculars. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. sells and markets a range of Fujifilm products and services in Canada. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmusa.com/northamerica, go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter, or go to www.facebook.com/FujifilmNorthAmerica to Like Fujifilm on Facebook. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss.

FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Tokyo, Japan, brings continuous innovation and leading-edge products to a broad spectrum of industries, including electronic imaging, digital printing equipment, medical systems, life sciences, graphic arts, flat panel display materials, and office products, based on a vast portfolio of digital, optical, fine chemical and thin film coating technologies. The company was among the top 10 companies around the world granted U.S. patents in 2012, and in the year ended March 31, 2013, had global revenues of $26.7 billion*. Fujifilm is committed to environmental stewardship and good corporate citizenship. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmholdings.com.

* At an exchange rate of 83 yen to the dollar.

Conclusion

I’m pretty jazzed about the indigo color and the new mega zoom, but I’m starting to get confused by all of the Fujifilm offerings. This camera does not have the X-Trans Sensor which seems to be the big differentiating factor between this and the X-M1. This helps to keep the price down by $200 USD, so perhaps this is a good entry level camera for those who want to get into the X mount system. With the wide variety of lens offerings, I think this is quickly becoming a very compelling system to invest in, but personally I’m holding out for the X-E1 and X-Pro1 replacements based on the incredible performance I saw with the x100s.

Where to order

Click the following links to order:

• Fujifilm X-A1 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens
• Fujifilm X-A1 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens (Indigo Blue)
• Fujifilm XC 50-230mm f/4.5-6.7 OIS Lens

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these:

• Fujifilm X20 (My personal P&S camera)
• Fujifilm X100s
• Fujifilm X-E1
• Fujifilm X-M1 Preview
• Fujifilm XPro-1
• Fujifilm X-S1
• COMPARISON: Fujifilm X-E1, X100s, X20 & X10
• Olympus OM-D E-M5 (with 2 lenses)
• Sony NEX-7
• Sony DSC-RX1 (Full Frame Compact Camera)
• Sony DSC-RX100 II vs RX100 I

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this.

REVIEW: Understanding Exposure 3rd Edition (UPDATED: Sept 16, 2013)

Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson is one of those books that when you first start to read it you say to yourself "I already know that", but if you can stay focused and actually read all of the words of this book (i.e., no skimming) then you'll discover many little nuggets of info that will help you to be more creative in your photography.

NOTE: This review has been updated for the 3nd Edition but some parts of my original review remain.

The exercises and stories Bryan talks about cause me to have numerous "ah ha" moments where I feel like my mind and view of the world changes and my photography will get better in the process. For example, before reading Bryan's books I never would have taken photos like these of my kids (in 2007):

Another thing I like about Bryan's books is that he shares his stock photo shots that have been successful and tells you how much money he has made on them. I find this valuable because I look at certain shots, like his cover picture, and say "wow that's nice" but I wouldn't expect it to be a $40,000 stock photo (in the 90's). His shots remind me that you can have a simple basic shot that is well taken and exposed and still make some good money with it. While the current stock photography market is exponentially harder now, and I don't think you are going to see $40k photos anymore, it does remind me that you don't need to travel to a national park or exotic location to make good money with a photo.

Section by Section Walkthrough (3rd Edition)

Here’s my thoughts on the major sections of this book:

Defining Exposure

In this section Bryan define what people mean when they say exposure in simple terms that anyone can understand. He also goes into detail about how ISO has an impact on exposure (complete with one of his many great hand-on exercises). More importantly, he discuss how your camera exposes an image by measuring the available light and how you can have many properly exposed images, but how only one might represent your artistic intent. This is a key concept that I see people fail to recognize all of the time. Every beginner (and some who think they are intermediate to advanced) should read this section.

Aperture

This is a great discussion on why we use different aperture. As Bryan puts it, they are “Storytelling Apertures”, so he provides plenty of examples of how an aperture adjustment can make a huge difference on the story a given image can convey. He even goes into the impact aperture can have on macro photography as well as how & why the rules change a bit when you use a small sensor (i.e., a point and shoot).

Shutter Speed

This section discusses why you should care about shutter speeds and the impact adjusting it will have on a photo. More importantly, he shows examples as to what you can accomplish by having accurately exposed photos at shutter speeds you might not think to consider (i.e., sometimes blur is good). More importantly, there’s a good discussion on how you can imply motion by shutter speed adjustments (including a brief discussion on panning). He finishes up with a cool trick on how you can combine a slower shutter speed with a lens zoom (while shooting) to create a cool effect, and my favorite – how to photograph rain properly.

For a deeper discussion of Shutter Speed, I highly recommend his book Understanding Shutter Speed.

Light 100

Everything you do as a Photographer will involve making adjustments (and many times compromises) to the light you have at your disposal to create a combination of a properly exposed image and an interesting composition. This section should be mandatory reading for anyone who owns a camera (any type of camera).

In this section Bryan discusses the importance of light and how you can “explore” it to get a great exposure. He goes into detail about different types of light and how the position of that light will impact your photographs. This will inspire beginners to look at light differently and understand how to get more creative images by understanding light in ways that they may have never noticed.

The last half of this section gets a little more technical, but it is described in a way that most people will easily be able to follow (which is Bryan’s gift). While it may seem a bit intimidating at first when he jumps into Exposure Meters and Gray Cards, if you hang in there you’ll get to the crown jewels of this whole book – the “Sky Brothers” and “Mr. Green Jeans” topics. I encourage you to read those topics as many times as necessary to understand them fully as they will help your photography tremendously. Here’s a tip though, to use them effectively you’ll need to understand how Auto Exposure Lock (AE-L button on Nikon and perplexingly the asterisk (*) button on Canon) works on your camera. Please take the time to do this and understand these as they are the key to making great exposures in camera for the conditions discussed.

This section finishes up with the all important subject of Night and Low-Light Photography and why you’ll need a tripod if you decide to shoot these types of shots. If you’ve read my Which Books Should I Read? article and picked up the outstanding book Light: Science and Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting, but found it to be way too geeky and dry for you then this section is a good “Cliff Notes” on some of the more important concepts. I still highly recommend Light: Science and Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting but I recognize it might not be for everybody.

Filters, Special Techniques & Flash

This is a useful section for the beginner that can be skipped by more advanced photographers. It provides a short and simple discussion on how you can “break the rules” with exposure to create various effects (some of which might not be possible with your camera and therefore only doable via Photoshop). It also is great overview of various filters and why you might need them as well as images that show the before and after impact of a various popular filters (i.e., Polarizer, Neutral Density, Graduated Neutral Density and more).

The subject of HDR is a little light and only focuses on Photomatix, but if you have never heard of HDR before you might find this useful.

The flash sections just touch on what’s possible, but don’t really have any depth.

Conclusion

I highly recommend getting this book. For those who think they know all of this stuff, I suggest that you keep reading and pay close attention. Don't let your mind wander and start skimming pages, because you will miss nuggets of useful information that will help make you a better photographer.

If you own this book then you may definitely want to consider some of his others listed below in recommended order.

Skill Level: Any

Value: Worth every penny

Recommendation: This is a MUST read for any photographer who isn’t generating an income off of Photography already. You may think you know everything there is to know, or you might be fooled into thinking that your $8000 camera is so good you don’t need to read this – but you’d be dead wrong. This book covers essential topics that billions of photos on Flickr prove that people simply don’t understand they way they should.

It is hard to go wrong with Bryan's books and this is no different. This was his first book that got it all started and he's got a winning formula for writing fantastic books. I used to say that Learning to See Creatively should be read first because composition is critical, but this is a great book that shouldn’t be missed either.

Here’s more Bryan Peterson book reviews on this blog (in recommended order):

1. Learning to See Creatively
2. Exposure Solutions (really a tie with below)
3. Understanding Composition Field Guide: How to See and Photograph Images with Impact (REVIEW COMING SOON – HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
4. Beyond Portraiture
5. Understanding Shutter Speed

Where to order

Click here to order on Amazon. A Kindle edition is also available.

Other articles you may enjoy

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy these:

• Which books should I read?
• Which camera should I buy?
• Which lens should I buy?
• Things You Need AFTER You Buy Your New Camera - Must Have Photography Accessories
• Which Printer Should I Buy? Epson or Canon?
• On-Camera Flash Techniques
• Bryan Peterson Workshops Review
• The Perfect Picture School of Photography (PPSOP) by Bryan Peterson
• Kelby Training - best video training on the web
• Photoshop Elements User - (Discount) Tutorials and more
• Zenfolio – The best place to store your photos online

Disclosure

If you make a purchase using links found in this article, I may make a commission. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it does help to support future articles like this.