Camera
Sigma announces a 28-105mm F2.8 Art lens for E and L mounts
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| Image: Sigma |
Sigma has announced the full-frame 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN Art lens for L-mount and Sony E-Mount cameras. The company says the lens is meant to cover “several popular focal lengths,” such as 28mm, 50mm, and 85mm while providing a constant aperture.
The lens is constructed from 18 elements in 13 groups, with two fluorite-like ‘F’ low dispersion (FLD) elements, one super low dispersion (SLD) element and five aspherical lenses. The front element has a water and oil-repellant coating, and Sigma claims the lens is dust and splash-resistant.
The company is pitching this as a lens for both photographers and videographers. To woo the latter, it says that the ‘High-response Linear Actuator’ autofocus motor will provide ‘noise-free video capability’ and emphasizes its ‘minimal’ focus breathing.
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This lens includes a variety of switches and buttons.
Image: Sigma |
The L-mount version of this lens weighs 995g (35.1oz), which makes it approximately 34% heavier than Sigma’s comparable 24-70 F2.8 for L-mount, which weighs 745g (26.3oz). Whether that’ll be worth it to you will likely depend on how often you find yourself wishing for just a little more reach (or how often you shoot at your lens’ widest setting).
While shooting a sample gallery for the lens, which you can see below, we found the relatively unusual 28-105mm focal length to be highly versatile for everyday shooting, though we wouldn’t be surprised if some shooters were left wanting a bit more on the wide end, given the popularity of the 24mm focal length.
We also appreciated the tactility of the lens. It has an aperture ring, a switch to change that ring between click and clickless mode, and a lockout to keep it in or out of the auto setting. There’s also a zoom lock, autofocus/manual focus switch and a pair of AFL buttons.
Sigma claims the lens is “surprisingly compact,” at a length of 157.9mm (6.2″), but you can expect it to extend by around 38mm (1.5″) when you zoom with it. It’s also worth noting that the lens has a 40cm (15.8″) minimum focusing distance, which is relatively distant compared to many brands’ 24-70 F2.8 lenses. The lens has an 82mm filter size.
The 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN Art will sell for $1,499 when it launches in ‘late September.’
Sigma 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN sample gallery:
Please do not reproduce any of these images on a website or any newsletter/magazine without prior permission (see our copyright page). We make the originals available for private users to download to their own machines for personal examination or printing (in conjunction with this review); we do so in good faith, so please don’t abuse it.
Sample gallery
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Press Release:
SIGMA announces 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art lens, a new fast-aperture zoom with extended reach
Ronkonkoma, NY – September 5, 2024 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless camera systems. Spanning many popular focal lengths in a single fast-aperture zoom, this is an exciting addition to the product line.
The SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art is a surprisingly compact, full-frame, wide-angle to telephoto zoom lens with a fast constant aperture. Available for Sony E-mount and L-Mount, this lens covers several popular focal lengths from 28mm to 105mm, including the very popular 85mm focal length for portraiture, remaining at F2.8 through the entire range.
Featuring HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) autofocus, and optical performance that lives up to the standard of Art line lenses, the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art joins SIGMA’s selection of fast-aperture zoom lenses in the Art line, offering photographers and videographers a variety of premium standard zoom options depending on their personal style. Like the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art and the 28-45mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, the new 28-105mm F2.8 includes a lockable aperture ring with click/declick function, as well as two AFL buttons and a zoom lock switch. Additionally, the dust- and splash-resistant design and water-and oil-repellant coating on the front element makes it suitable for shooting both stills and video in inclement weather.
A minimum focusing distance of 15.8 inches (40cm) at all focal lengths, and maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 at the telephoto end add to the versatility of this new zoom lens. This lens also features a rounded twelve-blade diaphragm, which helps to keep the large-aperture unit as small as possible.
Measures have been taken to minimize changes in optical performance due to differences in zoom and focus positions, including the use of a difficult-to-process large-diameter FLD glass in the first group to suppress aberrations in each group. In addition, the use of 5 aspherical lens elements has enabled the lens to achieve both a wide zoom range of 28mm to 105mm and a large-aperture of F2.8, while reducing its overall size.
By thoroughly reducing the weight of each part, the lens is kept under 2 pounds while achieving both a wide zoom range and an F2.8 aperture. The lens barrel near the mount is made of magnesium rather than aluminum, ensuring rigidity while reducing the weight of these parts alone by two-thirds. The lens will retail for $1,499 and will be available in late September 2024.
Learn more at: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/28-105mm-f2-8-dg-dn-a
Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras
A | Art
SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art
Beyond Standard.
- Constant F2.8 aperture across a versatile 28-105mm zoom
- Superb portability thanks to a weight of less than 1kg
- Professional features, fast AF and excellent build quality
Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH878-07, FRONT CAP LCF-82 III, REAR CAP LCR II
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
Launch date: September 26, 2024
* Product appearance and specifications are subject to change.
* This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
#SIGMA #SIGMA28105mmF28Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtZoom #SIGMADGDN
Harness the power of this versatile and portable F2.8 optic with an extended 28-105mm focal range – a standard zoom that goes well beyond standard.
The SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art is not just another standard zoom lens. With a powerful wide-angle to medium telephoto focal length and a bright F2.8 aperture throughout, this full-frame mirrorless zoom combines outstanding optical performance, superb build quality and a range of pro-grade features to make it one of the most versatile optics on the market for mirrorless systems.
The lens is built to tackle a huge range of subjects and situations, from expansive low-light landscapes to portraits with big, beautiful bokeh, and thanks to SIGMA’s latest optical technology and the use of large diameter elements including FLD, SLD and five aspherical elements, it is able to do so with superb clarity and sharpness. This allows the lens to deliver exceptional versatility without compromising on optical quality. The lens also includes high-speed AF with HLA technology, a rugged dust- and splash-resistant structure, and various functions such as an aperture ring, all packed into a compact and lightweight body weighing less than 1kg, making it an exceptional all-round choice for both stills and video.
[Key Features]
1. Constant F2.8 aperture across a versatile 28-105mm zoom
Many conventional zoom lenses which have a reach up to 105mm do not offer a constant F2.8 aperture, usually dropping to F4 at the long end. But the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art delivers the same impressive light-gathering and depth-of-field benefits across the whole focal range. The lens offers all of this along with extremely high optical performance thanks to the thorough suppression of optical aberrations within each lens group. And with its outstanding close-focusing capability when zoomed in, macro-style results are also possible.
A versatile F2.8 aperture perfect for portraits and low light
With its fast aperture across the whole focal range, the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art is a true workhorse lens that can be used for almost any type of photography. Scenic photographers can shoot wide-angle landscapes, using the F2.8 aperture for low-light scenes and twilight urban views, while the middle focal lengths tackle dimly lit documentary and street subjects, allowing shutter speeds one stop faster than comparable lenses. At the long end, popular portrait focal lengths from 85mm and 105mm, combined with the F2.8 maximum aperture, produce a shallow depth-of-field that will isolate a subject impressively against large and beautiful bokeh.
Fill the frame with superb close-up performance
Achieving a minimum focus distance of just 40cm across its entire zoom range, the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art can get you closer to your subject, filling the frame with detail and texture. At its 105mm setting, this creates a very useful maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 for powerful macro-style results.
Superior optical performance across the full zoom and focus range
The SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art operates without compromise, suppressing aberrations very effectively within each lens group, and throughout the entire zoom and focal range. This ensures the lens has a consistent performance even with such a long zoom range. This is thanks to the lens’s premium optical design, which includes two FLD, one SLD and five aspherical elements, the first grouping of which uses a large-diameter 66.4mm element that is extremely difficult to produce and only available thanks to SIGMA’s advanced manufacturing technology at its sole production base in Aizu, Japan.
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Using advanced simulation technology, flare and ghosting have been largely eliminated, ensuring that the lens renders rich, high-contrast results in all conditions. In addition, SIGMA’s Nano Porous Coating and Super Multi-Layer Coating have been applied to further suppress flare and ghosting.
Minimal focus breathing
Vital for filmmakers who demand consistent framing, the lens has been designed to keep focus breathing to a minimum. This ensures that any changes to the angle-of-view due to focus shift are minimized across the entire zoom range, ensuring natural-looking focus pulls when recording video, and easier image alignment when focus stacking.
2. Superb portability thanks to a weight of less than 1kg
Standard zooms should be small and light enough for all-day hand-held shooting, so the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art has been designed with portability in mind. It combines five aspherical elements effectively in place to shorten the overall length, and a magnesium-alloy construction around the mount, keeping the weight of the lens to less than 1kg. This ensures the lens has superb portability similar to shorter standard zoom lenses, while providing a wider zoom range.
Excellent optical performance in a streamlined body
By using five aspherical elements in its optical construction, SIGMA has succeeded in significantly shortening the lens’s total length without any compromise to sharpness and image quality. This advanced configuration was only made possible by continuous technological innovation and cutting-edge manufacturing processes at SIGMA’s sole production base in Aizu, Japan.
Smarter design means lower weight
Constant F2.8 zoom lenses can be heavy, but by optimizing the design and materials of each part of the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, SIGMA has achieved a remarkably light weight of less than 1kg. The use of magnesium-alloy rather than aluminum for the lens barrel around the mount has reduced the weight of these parts alone by two-thirds, while ensuring rigidity.
3. Professional features, fast AF and excellent build quality
In addition to high-speed AF delivered by its linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator), the SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art packs in a range of features that help deliver the best possible results in every shooting situation. These include a dust- and splash-resistant structure and water- and oil-repellent coating, as well as a zoom lock switch, a de-clickable aperture ring, AFL buttons and the focus ring for easier handling including shooting with MF.
A linear motor HLA for rapid and accurate AF
The lens incorporates a linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) that delivers a maximum drive speed, ensuring responsive, precise and smooth AF. With its high level of quietness, the motor also provides noise-free video capability.
An aperture ring for improved ergonomics
For quick changes to exposure, or a more traditional way of shooting, the lens is equipped with a dedicated aperture ring, allowing the user to change aperture via the lens if preferred. An aperture ring click switch is a useful tool for film-makers, and a lock switch helps ensure the aperture ring is not knocked out of its setting accidentally.
Two AFL buttons* for added customization
Located on the side and on top of the barrel, two customizable AFL buttons can easily be reached in either horizontal or vertical shooting positions, ensuring more ergonomic handling.
* Assignment of functions is limited to supported cameras and assignable functions vary depending on the camera.
Zoom lock switch to keep the zoom ring secure
The lens is equipped with a zoom lock switch that holds the zoom mechanism in place at its wide end, preventing it from extending unintentionally under its own weight when carried. The lock can be released by the switch, or by turning the zoom ring for a faster and more flexible workflow.
Weather-resistant structure for challenging conditions
The lens has a dust- and splash-resistant structure* that keeps it free of contaminants in harsh outdoor environments. The front element also features a water- and oil-repellent coating that helps keep it clean in adverse shooting conditions.
* The structure is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.
Petal-type hood
A dedicated petal-shaped hood is supplied. A locking mechanism is provided for secure attachment.
[ Additional Features ]
- Lens construction: 18 elements in 13 groups (2 FLD, 1 SLD, 5 aspherical elements)
- Inner focus system
- Compatible with high-speed autofocus
- HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)
- Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction
* Only cameras that are compatible with the function are allowed to use this function. Also, the items that can be corrected may vary depending on the camera, or automatic correction may be performed.
* On a camera that allows selecting ON/OFF for lens aberration correction, set the various aberration corrections to ON (AUTO) from the camera menu. - Supports DMF and AF+MF
- Compatible with AF assist (for Sony E-mount only)
- Nano Porous Coating
- Super Multi-Layer Coating
- Water- and Oil-Repellent Coating (front element)
- Aperture ring
- Aperture ring click switch
- Aperture ring lock switch
- AFL button (2 locations)
* Assignment of functions is limited to supported cameras and assignable functions vary depending on the camera. - Focus Mode switch
- Zoom Lock switch (Locks at wide end)
- Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only)
* Only cameras that are compatible with the system are allowed to use the system. - Dust- and Splash-Resistant Structure
* The structure is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable. - Petal-type hood with lock LH878-07
- Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
- Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
- Every single lens undergoes SIGMA’s proprietary MTF measuring system
- 12-blade rounded diaphragm
- High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
- Mount Conversion Service available
- “Made in Aizu, Japan” craftsmanship
Sigma 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN specifications:
| Principal specifications | |
|---|---|
| Lens type | Zoom lens |
| Max Format size | 35mm FF |
| Focal length | 28–105 mm |
| Lens mount | L-Mount, Sony E |
| Aperture | |
| Maximum aperture | F2.8 |
| Minimum aperture | F22 |
| Aperture ring | Yes |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 12 |
| Aperture notes | Aperture ring click switch Aperture ring lock switch |
| Optics | |
| Elements | 18 |
| Groups | 13 |
| Special elements / coatings | 2 FLD, 1 SLD, 5 aspherical elements |
| Focus | |
| Minimum focus | 0.40 m (15.75″) |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Motor type | Linear Motor |
| Distance scale | No |
| DoF scale | No |
| Physical | |
| Weight | 995 g (2.19 lb) |
| Diameter | 88 mm (3.46″) |
| Length | 158 mm (6.22″) |
| Materials | Magnesium |
| Sealing | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Zoom method | Rotary (extending) |
| Power zoom | No |
| Zoom lock | Yes |
| Filter thread | 82 mm |
| Hood supplied | Yes |
| Hood product code | LH878-07 |
| Tripod collar | No |
Continue Reading
| Images: Dua Lipa, Three Legged Thing, Bandai Namco |
It’s the weekend, so that means we’re once again rounding up all the little accessories and gadgets that we heard about throughout the week. But first, let’s see what’s on sale this week…
Full Frame Gold
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The Sony a7R V.
Photo: Richard Butler |
The Sony a7RV, which has earned both a place on our best high-end cameras buyers guide and a gold award, is currently on sale for $500 off MSRP. It features a stabilized 61MP sensor, as well as Sony’s excellent autofocus system.
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The Nikon Z5.
Photo: Dan Bracaglia |
For those looking to spend a little less, the DPReview Gold-winning Nikon Z5 is also $400 off MSRP, which makes it just under $1,000 body only. It features a 24MP sensor, and while its autofocus and video are far from class-leading, its ergonomics and battery life help make up for those downsides – especially at this price.
Buy now:
You get a SmallRig, and YOU get a SmallRig
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The EOS R5 II is going into its cage, and it’s feeling just fine.
Image: SmallRig |
SmallRig has come out with a few new kits this week. The company has started selling versions of its ‘HawkLock’ quick-release cage and ‘Black Mamba’ ergonomic cage for the Canon EOS R5 Mark II now that the camera is starting to make its way to consumers. The company is also releasing a traditional basic cage for the EOS R5 II.
HawkLock cage kit for EOS R5 II:
Black Mamba cage kit for EOS R5 II:
The company has also released ‘Colorful Editions’ for the HawkLock cages for the Sony FX3 / FX30 and A7R V / A7 IV / A7S III. Similar to its last color event, it’s only selling a limited number of each, though there are fewer colors to choose from; you can only get the cages in red or orange this time around. They also come at a $5 price premium over their black counterparts.
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| Image: SmallRig |
On the other end of the photography/videography spectrum, SmallRig has also released a new kit for people serious about shooting video with their phones. Its ‘All-In-One Mobile Video Kit’ is a collaboration with YouTuber and filmmaker Brandon Li. It includes a cage, which you can attach to your phone using Apple’s Magsafe or a more traditional clamp, as well as a pair of handles, a 67mm filter plate, and a USB hub.
The handles have a few tricks beyond just giving you a place to grip your phone. One includes an m.2 SSD enclosure, which can be used for external ProRes recording on the iPhone 15 Pro. It also has an integrated Bluetooth remote, which acts as a wireless shutter and zoom control for Android phones and iPhones.
SmallRig is offering several different bundles of the video kit, and you can buy several of the components separately.
Buy now:
An always-with you card reader
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| Image: Anker |
If your phone is less of your main camera and more of an accessory to your photography, Anker’s latest MagSafe offering may be for you. It’s a puck that adds an SD and TF card reader to the back of your phone, so you can offload pictures from a dedicated camera to share on social media or upload to the cloud.
The MagGo USB-C Adapter has an integrated USB-C cable, which plugs into your phone to enable data transfer. It also has a USB-C port on the side, which allows it to also act as a pass-through charger if you connect it to a power adapter or battery bank. According to Anker it can output up to 42.5W, and supports data speeds up to 312MB/s (though the iPhone 15’s USB-C port is limited to much slower USB 2.0 speeds).
Of course, you can also connect the MagGo’s cable to a computer, which will let it act as a USB-C hub and card reader dongle.
Buy now:
The Desk Arm
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This could be an incredibly easy way to mount a camera and ring light to your desk.
Image: Three Legged Thing |
Three Legged Thing has announced a series of accessories called the ‘Camera Desk Mount System.’ At its heart is an extending pole that you can clamp to a table or desk with a ball head and 1/4″-20 thread on top. Also available is an accessory arm that clamps to the pole and that can be purchased in straight or articulating varieties.
The company is marketing the system towards content creators making videos for TikTok, Reels, and Twitch, but it could also be handy for photographers who often find themselves needing to get top-down shots of their desk (or for people who want a place to mount their extra-fancy webcam). It can hold items up to 1kg (2.2lbs).
The upright mount costs $35 on its own, and you can get a kit with a single accessory arm for $50 or the articulating arm for $60. You can also get the arms a la carte for $23 and $30, respectively.
Buy now:
Tiny Nikons
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| Image: Bandai Namco |
This next pick isn’t an accessory for your camera but rather a camera-shaped accessory for your desk, keychain, or bookshelf. Nikon has partnered with Bandai Namco to create miniature versions of the Nikon F, Z Fc, SP, and Z9, which will be sold through capsule vending machines known as gashapons.
Each plastic figurine comes with a specific ‘lens,’ though they are removable, so you might be able to mix and match them if you had multiple models. According to The Verge, they’re only available in Japan. Those of us elsewhere will have to be happy just knowing these exist in the world.
Radical optimism about film
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| Image: Dua Lipa |
The final piece of gear doesn’t come from a camera retailer but from a pop star’s merch shop. Dua Lipa, the artist behind hits like ‘New Rules’ and ‘Don’t Start Now,’ is now selling a ‘reusable 35mm underwater camera’ on her merch store (via Kosmo Foto). It has a 28mm F9 ‘focus free’ lens, according to the very colorful box.
The camera’s branded with the name of her latest album ‘Radical Optimism,’ and includes a lanyard and waterproof shell that’ll work down to 3m (approx. 10ft). However, the package doesn’t include any film, which is a bit of a bummer given its $40 price tag – you can currently get a 27-shot waterproof disposable for around $13, which is unfortunately cheaper than most rolls of color ISO 800 film these days. It’s also worth noting that Fujifilm and Kodak’s one-time-use waterproofs are rated to go over twice as deep as Dua’s.
However, it’s probably worth looking at this camera with some… optimism, for lack of a better word. If a Dua Lipa fan sees it, buys it, and has fun with it, that’s one more person keeping film alive. How’s that for Future Nostalgia?
| Image: DJI |
DJI has announced a new drone called the Neo. It costs $199, weighs a mere 135g (4.76oz), can shoot 4K video, and can fly for up to 18 minutes. The company says it’s designed as “a vlogging tool ideal for capturing everyday life, leisure activities, family moments, and pets.”
In essence, it’s a flying selfie camera, similar to the HoverAir X1 or Snap Pixy. It comes with removable propeller guards that allow it to be used safely indoors, though using them will slightly reduce its flight time.
The Neo can capture 12MP images using a Type 1/2 (6.4 x 4.8) sensor with a 14mm full-frame equivalent F2.8 lens. It can shoot in 4K/30 or 1080 at up to 60p. If you aren’t using electronic image stabilization, the video will be 4:3; turn on the ‘RockSteady’ or ‘HorizonBalancing’ mode, and it’ll drop down to 16:9. The drone also has a physical single-axis (up/down) gimbal to help keep footage steady, even if it’s moderately windy.
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The DJI Neo can do ‘Palm Takeoff’ and automatically follow you around.
Image: DJI |
The drone’s controls align with its beginner and casual photographer-friendly nature. A button on the top lets you select what mode you want the drone to use; by default, it will follow you, using ‘AI algorithms’ to keep you in frame, even if you’re moving quickly on a skateboard or bicycle.
From there, you can hold it out in your hand and it will automatically take off and start recording after detecting you as a subject. How you get it to land will depend on what mode it’s in, but it can fly back and land in your palm as well.
The drone also has a feature known as ‘QuickShots,’ where it will automatically perform a specific movement such as circling around you or zooming straight up into the sky while keeping you in the center of the frame. You can select a QuickShot mode using the button, or the drone’s app.
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You can essentially control the DJI Neo with one button, though the company says you should set up the app in case you need to take control of it while it’s in flight.
Image: DJI |
The app also lets you control the drone with your voice or with virtual joysticks on the screen. It’s also how you preview the footage it’s taking and export it to social media, and it even supports recording audio with your phone’s microphone.
You can buy an optional controller for the Neo, but physical controls alone won’t make it a suitable replacement for serious video drones like the DJI Mavic or even DJI Mini. Those drones have larger cameras, more sophisticated gimbals and ranges measured in kilometers, where the Neo can only be used up to 50m (164ft) away.
Of course, that’s not what the Neo is designed for. As its product page says, it’s made to ‘capture cinematic footage with YOU in focus,’ and to do that task with as little fuss as possible. And at that $199 price point, it seems likely it’ll be a hit with consumers who want to spice up their social media feeds without really having to learn how to use a drone.
The Neo is for people who want drone shots without having to learn how to use a drone
With that said, there are potential dark skies in DJIs future that any Americans considering the Neo should be aware of. Congress is currently considering passing the ‘Countering CCP Drones Act,’ which could act as a de facto ban on the company’s drones. If passed, “telecommunications and video surveillance equipment or services” made by DJI would be placed on a list of products that ‘pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security,’ according to the bill’s summary. The company has published a document responding to ‘inaccuracies lodged against DJI in the public domain,’ but it remains unclear whether its products will be allowed in the United States in the future.
For those outside the US or who are willing to roll the dice, however, the Neo could turn out to be an extremely fun toy. If you get one, just be sure to be very aware of the rules around using a drone wherever you are. It may be small and light enough to take anywhere, but that doesn’t mean it should be used everywhere.
Buy now:
Press Release
DJI Makes Everyday Life Recording Fun and Easy with New Personal, Palm-Sized Videographer
New DJI Neo is light, compact, and makes capturing cinematic photos and videos effortless
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announces the DJI Neo, a new personal lightweight and compact aerial videographer for taking cinematic footage of day-to-day adventures or having fun with friends. Weighing less than 5 ounces (135g), Neo can take off and land from the palm of the hand1. It can be flown indoors or outside for a flight time of up to 18 minutes1 and takes 4K ultra-stabilized videos via QuickShots. The propellers are fully enclosed to ensure the safety of users and their surroundings.
“At DJI we are always studying everyday camera use so that we can help people capture their videos and photos in the most convenient way possible. The DJI Neo strives to give people the latest tech in the smallest form factor so that they can capture their daily lives, saved as treasured memories, safely and with ease,” said Ferdinand Wolf, Creative Director at DJI.
Into the Air at the Press of a Button
By simply pressing the mode button and selecting the desired shooting mode, Neo will automatically snap 12MP stills with its 1/2-inch image sensor or produce 4K UHD stabilized videos at 4K/30fps1 using DJI’s powerful stabilization algorithms. Upon completion, Neo will return to the user’s palm.
Tell Your Story with QuickShots
Neo’s AI algorithms have been created to keep the subject within frame. Whether cycling, skateboarding or hiking, captivating shots can be created with ease. Additional creativity can be achieved by taking advantage of Neo’s QuickShots, which has six intelligent shooting modes1, offering a range of different recording angles.
Expanse: Videographer flies backward and ascends, with the camera locked on the subject, and records a video.
Circle: Videographer circles around the subject.
Rocket: Videographer ascends with the camera pointing downward.
Spotlight: Videographer rotates while keeping the object of interest within the frame
Helix: Videographer ascends and spirals around the subject.
Boomerang: Videographer flies around the subject in an oval path, ascending as it flies away from its starting point and descending as it flies back. Its starting point forms one end of the oval’s long axis, while the other end is at the subject’s opposite side from the starting point.
Control It Your Way
Neo has been designed to fly with style and capture hassle-free photos and videos. It can be piloted using one-button QuickShots or voice control1 which is enabled with the “Hey Fly” command. With a Wi-Fi connection, Neo can also be controlled using the DJI Fly app’s virtual joysticks on the app’s interface with a control range of up to 50 meters1. Within the app, the perspective and distance can be set, giving extra freedom to shoot from afar or up close.
Stabilization as Standard
Neo is equipped with a single-axis mechanical gimbal and is capable of handling high-speeds or flights with lots of maneuvers. When combined with RockSteady or HorizonBalancing stabilization, overall image shake is significantly reduced and horizon tilt is corrected within ±45°1, for smooth and stable footage that maintains clarity in both highlight and shadow areas. Using an infrared and monocular vision positioning system, Neo can hover steadily in the air, maintaining stability even in Level 4 wind conditions. It also supports automatic Return to Home (RTH) for convenient, worry-free operation.
Transfer Content and Record Sound Wirelessly
Using the DJI Fly app, phones and videos captured with Neo can be transferred instantly via high-speed QuickTransfer. This wireless transfer makes post production and sharing smoother. The DJI Fly app offers a vast selection of templates, sound effects, and image effects, for quick and easy editing.
Audio can also easily be recorded wirelessly with the simple tap of a button on the DJI Fly app, either through the smartphone’s built-in microphone or DJI Mic 2 via Bluetooth for even higher audio quality. The app automatically eliminates propeller noise and merges the audio track with the footage, ensuring a clear sound even when shooting low-angle vlogs.
For convenient charging, connect Neo directly to a power source using a Type-C data cable. Additionally, the Two-Way Charging Hub can charge three batteries simultaneously1, increasing both charging speed and efficiency.
Price and Availability
The DJI Neo is available for pre-order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, in the following configurations:
DJI Neo: 199 USD
DJI Neo Combo: 289 USD
Neo Debuts at IFA, 6-10 September, 2024
Be among the first to experience the groundbreaking DJI Neo at this year’s IFA, Germany. Visitors can try it out at DJI’s booth (Hall 17-110) from 6th-10th September.
DJI Care Refresh
DJI Care Refresh, the comprehensive protection plan for DJI products, is now available for DJI Neo. The replacement service covers accidental damage, including flyaway, collisions and water damage. For a small additional charge, you can have your damaged product replaced if an accident occurs.
DJI Care Refresh (1-Year Plan) includes up to two replacements in one year. DJI Care Refresh (2-Year Plan) includes up to four replacements in two years. Other services of DJI Care Refresh include official Warranty and free shipping. For a full list of details, please visit: https://www.dji.com/support/service/djicare-refresh.
1All data was measured using a production model of DJI Neo in a controlled environment.
1For more information, please refer to https://www.dji.com/neo.
| Image: DJI |
DJI has announced a new drone called the Neo. It costs $199, weighs a mere 135g (4.76oz), can shoot 4K video, and can fly for up to 18 minutes. The company says it’s designed as “a vlogging tool ideal for capturing everyday life, leisure activities, family moments, and pets.”
In essence, it’s a flying selfie camera, similar to the HoverAir X1 or Snap Pixy. It comes with removable propeller guards that allow it to be used safely indoors, though using them will slightly reduce its flight time.
The Neo can capture 12MP images using a Type 1/2 (6.4 x 4.8) sensor with a 14mm full-frame equivalent F2.8 lens. It can shoot in 4K/30 or 1080 at up to 60p. If you aren’t using electronic image stabilization, the video will be 4:3; turn on the ‘RockSteady’ or ‘HorizonBalancing’ mode, and it’ll drop down to 16:9. The drone also has a physical single-axis (up/down) gimbal to help keep footage steady, even if it’s moderately windy.
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The DJI Neo can do ‘Palm Takeoff’ and automatically follow you around.
Image: DJI |
The drone’s controls align with its beginner and casual photographer-friendly nature. A button on the top lets you select what mode you want the drone to use; by default, it will follow you, using ‘AI algorithms’ to keep you in frame, even if you’re moving quickly on a skateboard or bicycle.
From there, you can hold it out in your hand and it will automatically take off and start recording after detecting you as a subject. How you get it to land will depend on what mode it’s in, but it can fly back and land in your palm as well.
The drone also has a feature known as ‘QuickShots,’ where it will automatically perform a specific movement such as circling around you or zooming straight up into the sky while keeping you in the center of the frame. You can select a QuickShot mode using the button, or the drone’s app.
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You can essentially control the DJI Neo with one button, though the company says you should set up the app in case you need to take control of it while it’s in flight.
Image: DJI |
The app also lets you control the drone with your voice or with virtual joysticks on the screen. It’s also how you preview the footage it’s taking and export it to social media, and it even supports recording audio with your phone’s microphone.
You can buy an optional controller for the Neo, but physical controls alone won’t make it a suitable replacement for serious video drones like the DJI Mavic or even DJI Mini. Those drones have larger cameras, more sophisticated gimbals and ranges measured in kilometers, where the Neo can only be used up to 50m (164ft) away.
Of course, that’s not what the Neo is designed for. As its product page says, it’s made to ‘capture cinematic footage with YOU in focus,’ and to do that task with as little fuss as possible. And at that $199 price point, it seems likely it’ll be a hit with consumers who want to spice up their social media feeds without really having to learn how to use a drone.
The Neo is for people who want drone shots without having to learn how to use a drone
With that said, there are potential dark skies in DJIs future that any Americans considering the Neo should be aware of. Congress is currently considering passing the ‘Countering CCP Drones Act,’ which could act as a de facto ban on the company’s drones. If passed, “telecommunications and video surveillance equipment or services” made by DJI would be placed on a list of products that ‘pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security,’ according to the bill’s summary. The company has published a document responding to ‘inaccuracies lodged against DJI in the public domain,’ but it remains unclear whether its products will be allowed in the United States in the future.
For those outside the US or who are willing to roll the dice, however, the Neo could turn out to be an extremely fun toy. If you get one, just be sure to be very aware of the rules around using a drone wherever you are. It may be small and light enough to take anywhere, but that doesn’t mean it should be used everywhere.
Buy now:
Press Release
DJI Makes Everyday Life Recording Fun and Easy with New Personal, Palm-Sized Videographer
New DJI Neo is light, compact, and makes capturing cinematic photos and videos effortless
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announces the DJI Neo, a new personal lightweight and compact aerial videographer for taking cinematic footage of day-to-day adventures or having fun with friends. Weighing less than 5 ounces (135g), Neo can take off and land from the palm of the hand1. It can be flown indoors or outside for a flight time of up to 18 minutes1 and takes 4K ultra-stabilized videos via QuickShots. The propellers are fully enclosed to ensure the safety of users and their surroundings.
“At DJI we are always studying everyday camera use so that we can help people capture their videos and photos in the most convenient way possible. The DJI Neo strives to give people the latest tech in the smallest form factor so that they can capture their daily lives, saved as treasured memories, safely and with ease,” said Ferdinand Wolf, Creative Director at DJI.
Into the Air at the Press of a Button
By simply pressing the mode button and selecting the desired shooting mode, Neo will automatically snap 12MP stills with its 1/2-inch image sensor or produce 4K UHD stabilized videos at 4K/30fps1 using DJI’s powerful stabilization algorithms. Upon completion, Neo will return to the user’s palm.
Tell Your Story with QuickShots
Neo’s AI algorithms have been created to keep the subject within frame. Whether cycling, skateboarding or hiking, captivating shots can be created with ease. Additional creativity can be achieved by taking advantage of Neo’s QuickShots, which has six intelligent shooting modes1, offering a range of different recording angles.
Expanse: Videographer flies backward and ascends, with the camera locked on the subject, and records a video.
Circle: Videographer circles around the subject.
Rocket: Videographer ascends with the camera pointing downward.
Spotlight: Videographer rotates while keeping the object of interest within the frame
Helix: Videographer ascends and spirals around the subject.
Boomerang: Videographer flies around the subject in an oval path, ascending as it flies away from its starting point and descending as it flies back. Its starting point forms one end of the oval’s long axis, while the other end is at the subject’s opposite side from the starting point.
Control It Your Way
Neo has been designed to fly with style and capture hassle-free photos and videos. It can be piloted using one-button QuickShots or voice control1 which is enabled with the “Hey Fly” command. With a Wi-Fi connection, Neo can also be controlled using the DJI Fly app’s virtual joysticks on the app’s interface with a control range of up to 50 meters1. Within the app, the perspective and distance can be set, giving extra freedom to shoot from afar or up close.
Stabilization as Standard
Neo is equipped with a single-axis mechanical gimbal and is capable of handling high-speeds or flights with lots of maneuvers. When combined with RockSteady or HorizonBalancing stabilization, overall image shake is significantly reduced and horizon tilt is corrected within ±45°1, for smooth and stable footage that maintains clarity in both highlight and shadow areas. Using an infrared and monocular vision positioning system, Neo can hover steadily in the air, maintaining stability even in Level 4 wind conditions. It also supports automatic Return to Home (RTH) for convenient, worry-free operation.
Transfer Content and Record Sound Wirelessly
Using the DJI Fly app, phones and videos captured with Neo can be transferred instantly via high-speed QuickTransfer. This wireless transfer makes post production and sharing smoother. The DJI Fly app offers a vast selection of templates, sound effects, and image effects, for quick and easy editing.
Audio can also easily be recorded wirelessly with the simple tap of a button on the DJI Fly app, either through the smartphone’s built-in microphone or DJI Mic 2 via Bluetooth for even higher audio quality. The app automatically eliminates propeller noise and merges the audio track with the footage, ensuring a clear sound even when shooting low-angle vlogs.
For convenient charging, connect Neo directly to a power source using a Type-C data cable. Additionally, the Two-Way Charging Hub can charge three batteries simultaneously1, increasing both charging speed and efficiency.
Price and Availability
The DJI Neo is available for pre-order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, in the following configurations:
DJI Neo: 199 USD
DJI Neo Combo: 289 USD
Neo Debuts at IFA, 6-10 September, 2024
Be among the first to experience the groundbreaking DJI Neo at this year’s IFA, Germany. Visitors can try it out at DJI’s booth (Hall 17-110) from 6th-10th September.
DJI Care Refresh
DJI Care Refresh, the comprehensive protection plan for DJI products, is now available for DJI Neo. The replacement service covers accidental damage, including flyaway, collisions and water damage. For a small additional charge, you can have your damaged product replaced if an accident occurs.
DJI Care Refresh (1-Year Plan) includes up to two replacements in one year. DJI Care Refresh (2-Year Plan) includes up to four replacements in two years. Other services of DJI Care Refresh include official Warranty and free shipping. For a full list of details, please visit: https://www.dji.com/support/service/djicare-refresh.
1All data was measured using a production model of DJI Neo in a controlled environment.
1For more information, please refer to https://www.dji.com/neo.
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