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Interview: Aki Murata of OMDS (Olympus) – ‘we’re more flexible now’

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Interview: Aki Murata of OMDS (Olympus) – ‘we’re more flexible now’
Aki Murata, Chief Operating Officer of OM Digital Solutions (OMDS), formerly Olympus.

In the latest in our series of socially distanced interviews with senior executives across the consumer digital imaging industry, we sat down (virtually) with Aki Murata, Chief Operating Officer of OM Digital Solutions (OMDS). In a wide-ranging interview, Mr Murata updated us on the transition from Olympus to OMDS, the future of the Olympus brand, and why he believes that Four Thirds still has advantages over other sensor formats.


What would you say is the biggest challenge faced by OM Digital Solutions (OMDS) in 2021, and how do you plan to address it?

We announced the carving out of the camera division from Olympus last June, and I think a lot of people were worried that it meant Olympus cameras would be different in the future, or our R&D philosophy or our product roadmap would change. I would like to state, once again, that we decided to split off from Olympus, which is a big medical company, in order to better manage our business and do what’s best for our camera customers. In this new company, OMDS, we have senior leaders in place who will bring fresh perspectives to company challenges, and this is a perfect start for a new chapter in the 85-year history of Olympus cameras.

The challenge is proving it. I can say whatever I like, but people need to be able to believe it. Not only existing Olympus users, but non-Olympus and non-Micro Four Thirds photographers. We need to make those users realize that they can invest in our system with confidence. The best way to do that is by introducing innovative products, and I can confirm that will be an exciting product announcement from OMDS later in 2021. I think that will put a lot of people’s minds at rest.

Our Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Setsuya Kataoka gave an interview in February where he mentioned new products, and today I can confirm that the announcement will be this year.

Can you provide any more details about the nature of that announcement?

I can’t, I’m sorry, but I can say that our focus will continue to be on Micro Four Thirds, and on mid to high-end products.

The Olympus Tough range of compact cameras has consistently sold well, even in the context of broad declines in the compact camera market following the mass-adoption of smartphones.

What do you see as the single biggest unaddressed need right now in the consumer DI market?

In the compact camera space, there is a need for features that differentiate those products from currently available smartphones. The types of cameras suitable for specialized purposes, such as action cameras and cameras for 360-degree imaging is increasing. Our Tough series offers durability, with very strong water resistance, and very good macro shooting modes. That range is appreciated very much by divers, casual beach photographers and nature macro shooters. We believe that by listening carefully to the needs of users who are working in highly specialized fields, we have the opportunity to meet those needs, and we’ll continue to do this.

So there will continue to be a place in your lineup for the Tough compact range?

Yes absolutely. If they were just waterproof cameras, I don’t think there would necessarily be a market for them. There are already waterproof smartphones, so what would be the difference? But as I said, we developed the Tough cameras to cater for certain types of users, with specific needs. And as long as we continue to develop upon that, there is always a market there.

Is there potential for OMDS to expand into other market segments, like 360-degree imaging as you just mentioned?

I cannot really talk about this in any detail, but I can say that we’re more flexible now, compared to when we were a part of Olympus. So we look at users, and we look at our technologies, and then when we see them crossing over, that’s a market we know we should be in. So we’re always looking at what customers are asking for.

In your opinion, what can dedicated camera manufacturers do to compete with smartphones?

That’s a question that we ask a lot, and discuss frequently, internally. We don’t really see a need to compete with smartphones, because smartphones are different devices, with different characteristics. And one of the important differentiators of interchangeable lens cameras is lenses. A wide variety of lenses with high optical quality, that make it possible to capture the best moments in various shooting situations. This is the reason why interchangeable lens cameras exist. A smartphone will never be able to capture a fast-moving bird, for example, from a great distance.

In other words, if a manufacturer can’t offer camera products with features that clearly differentiate them from smartphones, they’d be in trouble. We will continue to develop a system necessary to allow photographers to best capture moments, with maximum portability, with our Micro Four Thirds lineup. And we’ll focus on the areas where smartphones can’t compete, and can’t provide a benefit for photographers.

The size of the Four Thirds sensor offers the possibility of fast readout speeds, which makes this format ideal for computational imaging

We believe that it’s important to maximize the power of image sensors, and processors and image stabilization, but at the same time in order to maximize the power of those devices we have to use computational photography technologies like AI and other computational imaging technologies to expand the possibilities for capturing the moment. I think that combination will make our cameras more attractive.

The size of the Four Thirds sensor offers the possibility of fast readout speeds, which makes this format ideal for computational imaging. Conventionally, the evolution of hardware is an important factor for all cameras, but we believe that by utilizing the right hardware, and the right software together, via computational photography technologies, this will make the system more attractive to consumers and deliver shooting experiences that would otherwise not be possible, with hardware developments alone.

The handheld high-res shot mode in the E-M1 Mark III is one example, but we’re really going to continue to try to use these technologies to provide something new in the market.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is the biggest and most expensive M43 stills camera, but it’s still less than a third of the cost of a professional DSLR or mirrorless equivalents like the Sony a1.

How have your users responded to the computational photography features that you’ve included in your cameras so far?

We just talked about the handheld high res shot mode, which allows users to take pictures in higher resolution with less noise, without a tripod. During our customer research, we found that many of our E-M1 Mark III users were interested in that camera specifically because of these features. New users, coming into our system because of those features.

We believe that people are beginning to understand the value of Micro Four Thirds cameras for their ability to deliver similar image quality to larger sensors, but in a smaller, lighter system. We’re constantly looking for new areas where we can combine our hardware with computational technologies and I really believe that we can show further development in the near future.

Do you think that computational technologies could be employed in the development of video features, in future, as well as stills?

Yes. I cannot say exactly where, but we are looking a lot of different aspects and possibilities. I’m sure we’ll be able to introduce many more interesting features.

Do technologies like Stacked CMOS, which we’re increasingly seeing implemented in full-frame sensors, undermine the theoretical small sensor advantage, or could such technologies also be utilized in 4/3?

While we cannot provide information on specific plans for the future, it is possible for us to consider technologies like Stacked CMOS. We are always looking to maximize the potential of the Micro Four Thirds standard by developing and utilizing the latest technology. With our compact and lightweight systems, we will do what it takes to expand capabilities and provide the best imaging experience for the customer.

The Stacked CMOS sensor in the Sony a1 allows for ultra-fast shooting and high-resolution, nullifying some of the traditional ‘small sensor’ advantage. But it does so at a considerable cost. It’s interesting to imagine the features that might be made possible if Sony were to introduce stacked CMOS technology into its next-generation of 4/3 sensors.

Is there a practical limit to resolution in the 4/3 sensor format? At what stage do more pixels stop being useful?

The Micro Four Thirds system is not limited to 20 Megapixels. Our Pro lenses have excellent resolution and performance, enough to work well even with a 100 Megapixel sensor. However, increasing number of megapixels significantly impacts processing speeds and high ISO image quality. There is also a risk of function and feature limitations. Therefore, we carefully consider the best balance of resolution, image quality, performance and price, always with the best interests of the customer in mind.

Olympus is still seen as a fairly stills photography-focused company, what is your video strategy in general?

Still imagery is very important for us, but we’re not disregarding video. I can’t give you any specifics about the development of future video technologies but I believe that while it’s embraced by a lot of users, there are still some barriers to high-quality video recording with interchangeable lens cameras.

I’d like to address those barriers. One of them is image stabilization. Many casual video shooters don’t have gimbals, for example, and they need an all in one system package that allows them to shoot high quality video straight out of the box. That’s something we’d really want to achieve, and that’s a bit different to some other manufacturers. For example Panasonic, they have very good video-specific products, but we really want to create that all-in-one package. We believe that we can contribute to improving video capture by offering a portable system with strong image stabilization and a video-dedicated AF system. For more advanced users we’d like to provide solutions to improve workflow, such as our recent announcement of Apple ProRes Raw recording compatibility with the Atomos Ninja.

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC 1.25x IS PRO is designed for sports and wildlife photographers, and provides the ability to shoot at 1,000mm (equiv.) without a tripod. It’s proven a hit with M43 fans, to the extent that OMDS is struggling to catch up with backorders.

Do you have a target date for general availability of the 150-400mm F4.5 TC 1.25x IS PRO?

I couldn’t believe the number of preorders we received for the 150-400mm. It exceeded our expectations by far, globally. Usually for lenses of that kind, initial demand is very high, and then it drops in the months afterward, but looking at demand for this lens, it hasn’t stopped. That’s good, and we’re very happy, but we’re sorry for our users who have to wait. This lens is built in Japan and we’re very careful to make sure that the quality is very good.

That zoom lens covers up to 1000mm in 35mm terms, but with high resolution and high performance in a compact body. That’s the reason why we’ve seen such a high demand. The biggest selling point is handheld shooting. That’s the most appealing thing for birding and wildlife shooters, they can work handheld without sacrificing image quality. So the lens was highly anticipated by pro photographers all over the world, and sales have exceeded all our expectations.

It takes a lot of time just to make one lens, so unfortunately I can’t say right now when the lens will be available more generally. Our production facilities are working at full capacity to catch up with demand.

The 150-400mm is aimed at high-end and professional users, and you’ve specifically mentioned wildlife photographers – is that your most important customer demographic at the moment?

We prefer not to differentiate photographers by their level of experience. We offer a lineup of products from entry-level to high-end, but we don’t develop products only for specific types of customers. Our system offers a clear advantage in terms of size and weight, and we believe that our I.S. system is one of the best on the market, so any photographers who value size and portability are our ideal customers. We don’t differentiate. We’ll continue to invest in products that provide quality and portability. So for any photographer who’s going out with a lot of equipment will enjoy the benefits of our system.

How much longer do you think there will be a market for entry-level ILCs like the OM-D E-M10 IV?

I think that the entry-level line will always exist, unless people lose interest in photography, and I don’t think that will happen. The only questions are how entry-level is defined, and what features do people expect to see in those cameras? The more that smartphones camera features evolve, the smaller the gap will become between phones and current entry-level cameras will become. And when that happens, our definition of entry-level in the camera market may need to change.

In the past, the term ‘entry-level’ was used to describe any easy to use camera which delivered good picture quality but the pictures from smartphones aren’t bad, if you just want something for casual and everyday use. And if the smartphone takes over that role, then they’ll become the entry-point to the world of photography. The hallmark for all camera manufacturers, not just us, is to understand the needs of customers and introduce products that encourage more people to take up photography as a hobby.

Mr. Murata claims that he doesn’t differentiate customers by their ability-level, which helps explain why even ‘entry-level’ cameras like the OM-D E-M10 IV are packed with features and menu options which might go over the heads of a lot of beginners. In the future, Mr. Murata believes, as smartphones become the default ‘first camera’ for a lot of photographers, low-end and entry-level ILCs may become more costly, and even more advanced.

So do you think that what we currently call the ‘entry-level’ class will evolve to become more advanced, and more expensive?

Yes, that’s definitely one possibility.

When you’re thinking about future product development, which areas are you most focused on improving or developing?

I’m thinking about how I can give you a meaningful answer without giving you details! I can confirm that we want to exploit the full potential of the Four Thirds sensor format, and we believe that having a smaller sensor is an advantage for us. People still believe that it’s a disadvantage, but this is simply not true. Technology will develop, and the physical disadvantages of smaller sensors will be eliminated in future. Once this happens, the last variables will be the size and weight of the hardware. And that’s where we have a big advantage with the Micro Four Thirds system. We’ll continue to develop products and technologies that will change the perception of smaller sensors. I can’t wait to hear people one day saying ‘I thought having a small sensor was a disadvantage’.

Of the projects that you’re working on, to what extent are you working from customer demand, versus the potential of the technologies available to you?

It’s hard to provide a very clear answer to that question, but we’re always looking at both customer demands and the development of our technologies. Which one comes first depends on the feature. It’s hard for customers to express needs for features when perhaps those features, and the technology, don’t currently exist in the market. But on the other hand, just because we have the technology, we cannot develop a new feature without thinking about the needs of the customer. For us, the solution is to develop features that cater to the experiences and needs of our customers, and expand their shooting opportunities.

The past 12 months has spanned a global pandemic and the sale of the Olympus camera division. How has your team been affected, and how have you had to adjust?

We didn’t have a lot of supply chain issues, but as a result of COVID-19 we’ve seen a lot of travel restrictions and delays, and that has impacted the entire camera market quite a bit. We’ve been controlling our supply very carefully, and monitoring market conditions, but the good news is that our team adapted quickly using a lot of creativity. We’ve created new initiatives like ‘Home with Olympus’ and using Facebook Live instead of in-person events. We believe that market conditions are beginning to improve and we’re developing new products to meet customer demands as the market recovers after COVID-19.

As a result of the pandemic we’ve seen more people enjoying what we call ‘local adventures’ with their cameras, for example macro lenses are more popular than ever, likewise sales of tele lenses like 75-300mm and 100-400mm are continuously increasing. And of course more people have been using their cameras for meetings and virtual gatherings, like happy hours. We recently released the beta version of our webcam software to meet this demand

As Olympus / OMDS, we’ve had an interesting year with the pandemic and the sale of the camera division, and I’m very proud of how the team has adjusted during a difficult time. Some of the advisers that we’ve worked with during the process of the transition to OMDS have told us that this is one of the smoothest transitions they’ve ever seen, and I think the team has done a great job making that happen. The reason is that we had trust in the brand and the company. Just like our customers, when we first heard about the planned sale, we had some worries early on about what would happen, but very quickly we realized that we weren’t talking about a change of company, just a change of ownership. And this is a change which will bring better results for our users, and it’s good for us and good for them.

I’d also like to express my appreciation to all the frontline workers for their acts of bravery and selflessness during the pandemic. It’s been a very difficult time and we’ve really learned how meaningful pictures can be over the past year.

What does the Olympus brand stand for today, in your opinion?

I believe that Olympus as a camera brand represents tradition and excellent quality. Olympus also has a history of leading innovations and development, and introducing many ‘world’s first’ features. Our job is to continue to develop innovative and market-leading products with the spirit of a startup, but backed up with our history and our positive reputation, and our brand heritage. That’s something we tell the team internally, as well. We are excited to continue to build the brand.

Has your product development roadmap changed as a result of the transition to OMDS?

No, our development plan has not been affected at all. We’ll continue to deliver new products to our customers as planned. No change.


Editor’s note: Barnaby Britton

For all of the doom and gloom in comments and even some editorial coverage (not, I hasten to add, on DPReview) it seems that the team at OM Digital Solutions is going into 2021 with a marked sense of confidence, both in their leadership, and in the strength of the Olympus brand. Mr. Murata embodies this confidence, but I’ve heard similar statements from several current OMDS employees this year who have made the transition from Olympus.

‘No change’ is the message, and, with new products confirmed to be on the way in the coming months, everything looks to be going to plan. The most immediate problem facing Mr. Murata and his team appears to be the difficulty in fulfilling orders for the 150-400mm tele-zoom, which has been backordered almost since the day it was announced. Arguably that’s a good problem to have, but I get the impression that so early in its corporate existence, it’s also a slightly embarrassing one for OMDS.

While Mr. Murata prefers not to differentiate customers by their expertise level, he tells us that his team’s focus will continue to be on mid-range and high-end products. In past interviews, he has specifically identified sports and wildlife photographers as an important constituency of customers, and one that benefits from what he sees as the unique value proposition offered by Micro Four Thirds. It’s these kinds of photographers to whom the 150-400mm is aimed, alongside cameras like the OM-D E-M1 Mark III and the flagship E-M1X.

So what is the unique value proposition of Micro Four Thirds? Representatives of Olympus and Panasonic have been saying the same thing for years: high performance (especially when it comes to speed) in a small, affordable and lightweight package. The downsides of the smaller sensor format compared to APS-C and full-frame chiefly relate to image quality, but Mr. Murata is confident that technology will be developed to reduce the size of that gap to the point where it will no longer be a major determinant factor for photographers.

The question is whether advances in full-frame sensor technology, like Stacked CMOS, will in the meantime nullify the technical advantages of M43 in terms of speed. With cameras like Sony’s a1 (and potentially Nikon’s forthcoming Z9) offering a lot more pixels, a lot more dynamic range, and usefully fast maximum capture rates, the ‘small sensor speed advantage’ is becoming less clear,

Arguably, we’re already at this point, at least from a technical perspective: The 20MP E-M1X can shoot at up to 18 fps with AF tracking, which is really fast, but it’s slower than the 50MP Sony a1, which tops out at 30 fps. The elephant in the room, of course, is cost. For the price of one Sony a1, you could buy three E-M1X bodies, and still have a few hundred dollars left over. A Stacked CMOS 4/3 sensor might be capable of extraordinary speeds, but until or unless such a thing is developed, it’s impossible to know what it might look like (or how much it might affect the final cost to photographers).

For now though, Mr. Murata has faith in computational photography technologies (and it’s a justified faith, looking at its success in smartphones), and in the value and potential of the Olympus brand. Mr. Murata’s talk of being ‘more agile’ following the move away from the parent company is revealing, and very encouraging, coming alongside his obvious excitement about technology and his mention of the company operating with ‘the spirit of a startup’. Olympus might be among the oldest brands in photography, but it’s also consistently one of the most innovative, and it’s good to see that this approach is continuing.

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Ulanzi’s 52mm MagFilter Magnetic Filters offers interchangeable filters for smartphones

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Ulanzi’s 52mm MagFilter Magnetic Filters offers interchangeable filters for smartphones


Image: Ulanzi

Lens filters for smartphones are not a new concept. Designed to give photographers more creative and technical control over their images, there are several types on the market today that can control how much light comes into the camera, reduce reflections and flare or add more vibrancy to your images with different color tones.

Up until a few years ago, photographers wanting to add a physical filter to a smartphone would need to attach a clamped filter that sits at the top of the phone’s camera lenses or use a third-party smartphone lens with filters.

Although useful, clamps tend to be bulky and aren’t always the easiest to align with your camera. Third party lenses offer more accuracy, but good-quality options can cost in excess of $100, without the inclusion of filters.

Ulanzi aims to be different by offering a lightweight foldable adapter ring that snaps on to the center of your MagSafe compatible device or case, which the manufacture says leads to a quicker workflow and more accurate alignment of the filter to the camera lens on the back of the phone. On an iPhone 14 or 15 it works by magnetically attaching to the rear using Apple’s MagSafe attachment system.

For users without an iPhone, there are workarounds through the use of third-party smartphone cases with magnetic ring plates that emulating MagSafe. WIth such a case, you can attach Ulanzi’s adapter to the ring plate and use the filters as normal.

As we reported last week, the concept isn’t new. Tiffen recently released a similar product with its MagSafe 58mm Filter Mount. Both products approach a solution to adding filters in a similar manner but differ in design. The Ulanzi opts for compactness with a foldable design.

The Tiffen comes with one polarizing filter (you can buy other filters separately) at around $40. In contrast, the Ulanzi’s version comes as a kit for $219 with an ND filter, a polarizing filter, one soft focus filter and a selection of color effect filters. There’s a storage case as well. Having multiple filters packed in may be enticing to users seeking to experiment with different filters and want the simplicity of having them all packaged together.


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Tamron announces 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z mount

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Tamron announces 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z mount


Image: Tamron

Tamron has announced it will release its popular 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 fast standard zoom for Nikon’s Z-mount.

Nikon already sells a 28-75mm F2.8 with an optical formula and calculated MTF charts that are a match for Tamron’s original, stepper-motor driven 28-75mm F2.8 Di III RXD. The newer, linear-motor-driven G2 model features improved optical performance.


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The G2 uses a more complex 17 element / 15 group design and has a fractionally shorter minimum focus distance (18cm/7.1″ vs 19cm/7.5″) to deliver very slightly increased maximum magnification. The G2 is also a fraction lighter than the Nikon-branded 28-75mm, weighing 550g (19.4oz), rather than 565g (19.9oz). On the E-mount versions, Tamron claimed the VXD linear motor design was twice as fast as the RXD version.

The focal length range makes the 28-75mm a wide to short-telephoto lens for Nikon’s full-frame Z-mount cameras but could, in principle, be used as a 42-113mm equivalent on DX APS-C bodies, if you wished.

Click here to see the Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 G2 gallery shot on Sony E-mount

The announcement adds a more affordable option for Nikon’s Z-mount users, but the hope has to be that, letting Tamron compete against its own-brand lenses, might also indicate some relaxation of Nikon’s restrictions around the mount. As the footnotes make clear, this lens is “developed, manufactured and sold under the license agreement with Nikon Corporation.”

The Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD will be available from April 18th at an MSRP of $999. This is $100 more than the E-mount version and a match for the current price of the Nikkor Z 28-75mm F2.8. It’s $200 below Nikon’s launch price for the Nikkor version.

TAMRON announces the launch of fast-aperture standard zoom lens for “Nikon Z mount system”

28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063) for Nikon Z mount

March 27, 2024, 11pm ET / 8PM PT, Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063), a fast-aperture standard zoom lens, for Nikon Z mount full-frame mirrorless cameras1. The lens will be available April 18, 2024, at $999 USD / $1399 CAD.

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 is compact and easy to use yet has excellent optical performance and is compatible with the latest digital cameras with increasingly high pixel resolution. The AF drive uses a linear motor focus mechanism VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) that is fast, highly accurate and quiet. The lens also excels at close-up shooting, achieving an MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 7.1” (0.18m) at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7. Additionally, the lens design takes operability into consideration by including a coating with excellent scratch resistance on the barrel of the lens and a rubber focusing ring for a comfortable, secure grip among other features.

TAMRON pioneered the category of compact fast-aperture standard zoom lenses for mirrorless models. Now the 28-75mm F2.8 G2 will be available for Nikon Z mount as the ideal everyday lens for Nikon full-frame mirrorless camera users.

Product highlights

1. Best image quality in the standard zoom lens class

The new zoom leverages the latest design expertise and comprises an optical construction with 17 elements in 15 groups. Two optimally arranged LD (Low Dispersion) and GM (Glass Molded Aspherical) lens elements control optical aberrations to the highest degree. The lens provides high-resolution performance from edge-to-edge and corner-to-corner over the entire zoom range, even at wide open aperture. In addition, the soft, beautiful, round bokeh that can be achieved with a fast-aperture lens adds a distinctive dimension, especially to portraits. The overall compact size and high performance can be used advantageously with top-class, ultra-high-resolution mirrorless cameras.

2. Fast, quiet VXD linear motor for high-speed and high precision autofocus

The AF drive system employs TAMRON’s VXD linear motor focus mechanism. The high-speed, high-precision AF is exceedingly responsive and provides dependable and accurate focusing performance from MOD to infinity, despite the fast F2.8 aperture. The lens delivers excellent focus tracking of moving objects, so you are always ready for fast action. Additionally, the focus motor is quiet, so it’s ideal for shooting both still images and video in situations that demand low noise.

3. Lightweight and compact

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 is a fast-aperture standard zoom lens with a remarkably compact and lightweight design, just 4.7” (119.8mm) long. The maximum diameter is 75.8mm and it weighs only 19.4 oz. (550g). Filter size is 67mm. With a size that’s easy to carry and a light weight that’s well-suited for handheld shooting for extended periods, the 28-75mm F2.8 G2 will surely become your favorite zoom for travel, street shooting, everyday carry, and spontaneous photo opportunities.

4. MOD of 7.1” (0.18m) at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7 for creative close-ups

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 features an MOD of 7.1” (0.18m) at the wide end. The working distance shrinks to around 1.7” (4.4cm) when used at MOD. Because the maximum magnification ratio is 1:2.7, you can get close to your subject for wide macro photography, enabling powerful visual impact with the subject positioned large in the frame while keeping a wide view of the background.

5. TAMRON Lens Utility™ expands the possibilities of still photography and video shooting

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 is compatible with the dedicated TAMRON Lens Utility software developed in-house by TAMRON that empowers users to easily update the lens to the latest firmware without going through the camera2 and includes functions to support focusing operations and other actions when shooting still images or video. By utilizing a wide range of functions3, users can expand the breadth of expression in still images and video. For example, A-B Focus allows users to limit focusing to two pre-selected focus points, shifting focus from one subject to the other with just a click of the Focus Set Button. Users can also choose between Linear and Non-Linear, which affects how the focus shifts during manual focusing.

6. Enhanced overall lens design for user-friendly operation

Every individual part of the lens has been carefully scrutinized, right down to the fine details, resulting in an enhanced design that optimizes both operability and ergonomics. The surface of the lens exterior is glossy black. Improved abrasion resistance makes the lens barrel harder to scratch and resists fingerprints. Additionally, the grip performance has been improved. The smoothly curved, elegant surface of the brand ring creates a dignified appearance with a design that signifies functional beauty and high quality.

7. Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating provide extra protection

1. The lens for Sony E-mount previously launched on October 28, 2021.

2. To connect your PC and lens, use the TAMRON Connection Cable (USB Type-A to Type-C/ Model CC-150, or USB Type-C to Type-C/ Model CC-350) sold separately. To connect your smartphone and lens, use the TAMRON Connection Cable (USB Type-C to Type-C/ Model CC-350) sold separately. Lens firmware updates are not supported with the Mobile version. Performing firmware updates requires the TAMRON Lens Utility for PC and a computer.

3. The ring function (Focus/Aperture) is not supported for Nikon Z mount.

Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 specifications

(Length and weight refer to E-mount version)



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Sony announces major firmware upgrades for a1, a9 III, a7S III and a7 IV

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Sony announces major firmware upgrades for a1, a9 III, a7S III and a7 IV


Photo: Dan Bracaglia

Sony has announced major firmware updates for four of its current full-frame range, bringing many features and behaviors up to its latest standards and adding C2PA authenticity verification capabilities.

Sony a1 f/w v2.00

Firmware v2.00 for the Sony a1 is perhaps the most extensive, adding features that have appeared in other models in the three-and-a-bit years since it was launched, such as the lens breathing compensation function. It also adds a handful of new features and modifications of behavior, including an option to ensure the EVF remains on, regardless of the LCD position, and relay playback of images across multiple media. Among the extensive list of additions an updates are features such as Timecode Sync, previously only available in Sony’s Cinema Line cameras.

A series of FTP options, including SFTP support are also added.

The firmware doesn’t activate the C2PA function – which not only authenticates the camera and date/time but also that the photo is of a 3D subject, not a photo of a photo – but instead adds the capability to the camera. Once installed, users need to activate a separate license via the Creators’ App to use the function.

Sony a7S III f/w v3.00

Firmware v3.00 brings many of the updates seen in the a1, including Timecode Sync, breathing compensation and relay playback. It also adds the ability to close the mechanical shutter when the camera is turned off, to mitigate dust ingress, and the ability to transfer Raw files to smartphones.

In addition to the C2PA capability, firmware v3.00 includes the ability to add DCI 4K 24p shooting. Again a license needs to be downloaded to a camera running the new firmware to actually activate the function.

Sony a7 IV f/w v3.00

As one of the most recently updated cameras on this list, the a7 IV gains fewer features than the other cameras here. But in addition to C2PA capability, it adds network streaming, direct cloud upload support and an expansion of the features accessible via software development kit (SDK).

Sony a9 III f/w v2.00 [Expected April 9th]

As the newest of the cameras here, the a9 III receives fewer additions and updates than the a1 and a7S III, as in many instances they are gaining the features that the latest a9 introduced. However, in addition to details such as outputting lens names in video file metadata, the a9 III gains the promised ability to use the camera’s full shutter speed range when continuous shooting. But beyond this, the a9 III gains a small array of feature expansions and refinements being added across the four cameras, including the ability to extract stills from video capture, to take advantage of its lack of rolling shutter.

{PressRelease}

Sony Electronics Delivers Firmware Updates including C2PA Compliancy as a Next Step to Ensure Authenticity of Images

SAN DIEGO, March 27, 2024 – Today, Sony Electronics delivers the highly anticipated firmware updates for the Alpha 1 (Ver. 2.00), Alpha 7S III (Ver. 3.00), Alpha 7 IV (Ver. 3.00), and after April 2024, the Alpha 9 III (Ver.2.00). The update contains some of Sony’s most impactful technology, including Camera Authenticity Solution, the proprietary in-camera digital signature and C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity) format support1. Together, these tools will make it possible for news agencies to ensure the authenticity of images, contributing to industry efforts to protect creators, and society from fake imagery.

Additionally, the firmware updates include many requested features to improve everyday use. The update evolves shooting functions and post-shooting workflow and brings advanced movie features like breathing compensation. It also includes new remote-control capabilities, new features for professional applications, and expanded access to cloud services applications.

“There is nothing more core to our mission than listening to the voices of the photographers, videographers, and filmmakers who shoot with Sony Alpha cameras. We know this community has been asking for these updates, and we’re happy to deliver. Each of these updates are designed to promote ease of use for our creators and allow them to maximize the strengths of their cameras,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We’re especially pleased to deliver C2PA compliancy with this update. This compliancy paired with our unique digital signature technology, allows us to offer the most secure and comprehensive solution to protect professional photographers, news agencies, and society from manipulated imagery.”

Camera Authenticity Solution

Last year, Sony announced its commitment to developing technology in its cameras to aid in the fight against manipulated imagery and AI-generated fakes. The severity of this issue is only increasing and it’s a complex problem that requires the focus and attention of our entire industry.

One critical part of the solution is making more Sony cameras C2PA compliant. C2PA is a Joint Development Foundation project, where Sony is a steering committee member. C2PA aims to develop an end-to-end open technical standard to provide publishers, creators and consumers with opt-in, flexible ways to understand the authenticity, and provenance of different types of media. The C2PA is a standards-setting body that will develop technical specifications on content provenance and authentication by certifying the source and history of media content. With this firmware update, the authenticity information embedded on images from Alpha 1, Alpha 9 III, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 7 IV can be maintained from capture through publication. This provides professional photographers with the ability to preserve their digital signature from the camera, while tracking the editing history throughout revisions.

Another critical component of the solution is Sony’s in-camera digital signature technology2 that signs images in real-time. This new feature certifies the authenticity of an image at the point of capture and creates a ‘digital birth certificate’ that is retained throughout revisions. The signature contains metadata including 3D-depth information captured through the proprietary technology in the image sensor developed by Sony. This depth information can show if the image captured was of an actual 3D object, vs a photograph of an image or video, providing an extra level of protection and even more assurance of the content’s authenticity, and making Sony’s solution especially unique for photojournalists and news agencies.

Sony’s solution also helps protect the authenticity of content by including an Image Validation Site, which verifies the image even after edits have been made by C2PA-compliant editing software. This service confirms the authenticity of the photo was taken by a specific camera and that the object of the photo is 3D. This service will initially be offered to select news media agencies, expanding to other agencies at a later date.

Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution overview diagram
Example image of 3D Image verification

Shooting and Playback Updates

The firmware updates include over 10 new features, as well as improvements to existing features, designed to improve the user’s overall shooting experience. These improved capabilities showcase Sony’s commitment to continuing to evolve the functionality of Sony’s existing camera models. A few highlights of the firmware update functions include:

  • Relay Playback: Enables seamless sequential playback from one memory card slot to another on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 9 III.
  • Playback Filter Condition: Lets users categorize image playback based on select criteria including date, folder, file format, and more on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III
  • Breathing Compensation: The highly requested Breathing Compensation function3 is now available on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Upgrade DCI 4K / 24.00p Upgrade License on Alpha 7S III: via a free downloadable license through Creators’ Cloud4.
  • Sync Release function: Enables simultaneous shutter release with two or more multiple cameras connected to the main camera5 on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 III.
  • Focus frame display: Focus frame will be displayed on the Remote Camera Tool screeniii on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 III.
  • Enhanced image stabilization: The camera body and lens effectively work together to correct larger blurs6 on the Alpha 1.
  • Increased upper limit of recordable images in a folder from 4,000 to 9,999 on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, A7 IV, and Alpha 9 III.
  • Matching the time code with other devices is now possible with a dedicated adapter cable (sold separately)7 on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Up to 20 IPTC presets can be on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Custom Grid Line is available as a paid license basis for some models8.

File Transfer and Network Connectivity

Additional updates aimed to optimize the post-production workflow efficiency include improvements to International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC) preset and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) transfer operability. To streamline processes for users, expanded cloud upload and application services will be available. Key updates include:

  • Cloud upload (camera direct) function allows users to upload images directly to the Sony’s Creators’ Cloud9. Key additional features include simplified camera software updates, direct camera registration to the Creators’ Cloud, and a flexible system for uploading, storing, and sharing content. Additionally, the capability to manage video and LUT files via mobile apps, along with the transfer of RAW files to smartphones, optimizes the creative process in fast-paced environments.
  • FTP Transfer Improvements: A “Protected Images Only” option for the Auto FTP Transfer and a “Protect Image in FTP Transfer” option for the FTP transfer function have been added. Available on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 9 III.
  • Support for USB streaming10 on the Alpha 1.
  • Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) has been added to secure protocol on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 9 III and WPA3-SAE is now supported for wireless LAN on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Network streaming enables direct live streaming from the Alpha 7 IV to a streaming sitevii.
  • Expansion of app support with Creators’ App and Monitor & Control app now supported with the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.

Many of these updates are applicable to multiple cameras, however for a list of each body’s specific update please check the Sony website.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with Sony’s imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony α – Alpha brand.

1. This feature is available to some news organizations at the press release timing.
2. Both Sony’s in-camera digital signature technology and C2PA compliancy are currently available through a separate upgrade license.
3. For compatible lens information, please refer to the support page (https://www.sony.net/dics/breathing/)
4. For regional app/service availability, check here. To use this service, it is necessary to download and install the upgrade license.
5. Remote Camera Tool Version 4.1.0 is required to activate the function.
6. For compatible lens information, please refer to the support page (https://www.sony.net/dics/func1002/)
7. A dedicated adapter cable, which is sold separately, is required to connect to the timecode source equipment.
8. Availability varies depending on country and region. Available through the Upgrade and License Management Suite at https://ulms.sony.net.
9. For regional app/service availability, check here. Creators’ App Ver.2.3.1 or later is necessary. Settings must be made in the Creators’ App in advance. For more information, please visit the Creators’ App support website (https://www.sony.net/ca/help/opr/)

10. When connecting to a device with a USB Type-C port, please use a commercially available USB cable or a conversion adapter.

{/PressRelease}



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