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Press Release: Canon Announces Canon EOS M Mirrorless System and Accessories



It's OFFICIAL! Canon has officially unveiled their first ever mirrorless camera with their 18 MP Canon EOS M Mirrorless Camera. It is designed to target novices and enthusiasts who wants to dSLR performance in a compact-camera body without the complexity of a dSLR. The Canon mirrorless is expected to be released in October. The price with the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens bundle will be $799.

The EOS-M shares a lot of commonalities with the Canon Rebel T4i dSLR:
  • 18.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
  • Digic 5 processor
  • 3-inch 1.04MP capacitive touchscreen
  • Hybrid CMOS AF system that combines phase-detect and contrast detect AF
The last one is important because it should the Hybrid CMOS AF not only allows auto-focus in video mode, but it should help the traditional Canon dSLR phase-detect lenses to focus faster.

The camera will be coming in three colors – Black, White and Red.


Design
Overall design reflects that of a compact-camera, with clean simple lines and minimal design elements. On the front side, we see a release shutter button at the 3 0'clock position and a vertical window that houses the IR remote receiver and AF illuminator.


On the back side, by the thumb-grip, there is the movie record button. Below it, there are the menu and playback buttons, and below that is a four-way cluster with the SET button in the center and the dial ring around it. The SET button in the middle also brings up a Quick Menu. During shooting, the delete key can be programmed for either AF to center, Depth-of-field preview, ISO, Flash exposure compensation, or LCD brightness.

As expected, the camera operation will be more touchscreen-menu driven. There is full manual support, however, through this touchscreen. It is at least capacitive, making it easier to use compared to resistive touchscreen, and also allows multi-finger gestures such as pinch-to-zoom. Access to Av, Tv, P, and M modes are also done on the touchscreen.


Over to the top of the camera, you can see that there is no built-in-flash. Instead, there is a stereo microphone, followed by a hot shoe, a power button, and a shutter button surrounded by a Mode collar. This collar allows you to switch between Intelligent Auto, Camera, and Video.


One thing to note, the camera strap connector is non-standard. It is made so that the camera can hang and rotate freely, so that if heavier lenses are used, the camera will hang with the lenses pointing down.

The EF-M lens mount and lenses
The mirrorless format allows the lenses to be mounted closer to the sensor. The flange distance, which is the distance from the rear lens element to the sensor, is only 18mm. It uses an electronic first curtain shutter and a mechanical second curtain shutter, which helps with shutter sound and lag. Surprisingly, however, the shutter FPS is only 4.3fps.

Both of the new lenses, the Canon EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM lens utilizes the STM motor, which allows for smooth and silent focusing when paired with Hybrid CMOS AF, as well as autofocusing during video recording. According to DPReview, the 18-55mm is about the same size as Sony’s E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 lens for the NEX system, and the 22mm is about the same size as Panasonic’s 20mm f/1.7 pancake lens for the mu4/3 system. The 18-55mm has a full frame equivalent of 29-88mm, while the 22mm equals to 35mm. The zoom kit lens also has the added benefit of IS, and according to DPReview, it has the faster focus speed performance between the two.


Accessories
There will be a Canon EF-EOS M Mount adapter that will be available at the time of release. The adapter itself does have a built-in tripod mount, at least, so you won’t have to worry about damaging the EOS M’s mount.


You can certainly attach any of the Canon EF and EF-S lenses on the EOS M, but small size of the camera and the lack of a good grip means that you end up looking very unbalanced like this:


The EOS M kit will also include the Canon Speedlite 90EX Flash. It has a guide number of 9m at ISO100, covers an angle of 18mm (28mm full frame equivalent), and runs off 2 AAA batteries. It is also a wireless commander for the other Canon speedlites.


Canon's Official Sample Images
More Canon EOS M Sample images

Here is a first hand look at the Canon EOS M:


You can now Preorder the Canon EOS M. The Canon EOS M system will begin shipping in October 2012.

Canon EOS M w/22 f/2 STM Black $799 at B&H | Amazon | Adorama
Canon EOS M w/22 f/2 STM White $799 at B&H | Amazon | Adorama
Canon Speedlite EX90 $149 at B&H | Amazon | Adorama
Canon EF Adaptor for EOS M $199 at B&H | Amazon
Canon 18-55 IS for EOS M $299 at B&H | Amazon | Adorama
Canon LP-E12 Battery for EOS M $74.95 at B&H

Continue reading for full press release and additional images.

Put Your Creativity Into Motion With The New EOS M Digital Camera
The Newest Camera in Canon’s Lineup Delivers Exceptional EOS Full HD Video Quality with Continuous Autofocus and an Expansive Selection of Lenses

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., July 23, 2012 – Combining the perfect blend of advanced video features and excellent still image quality in a convenient size, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the EOS M Digital Camera. Canon has made significant advancements in the realm of professional-quality HD video capture, from advanced CMOS sensor technology to smooth, quiet continuous autofocus. Inspired by EOS technology, the EOS M leverages these core technologies and distills them down to provide outstanding video capture capabilities while retaining high-quality still image capture. When shooting still images, the EOS M camera’s 18-megapixel APS-C-sized CMOS image sensor provides a shallow depth of field, incredible low-light image quality and a wide dynamic range to capture rich gradation and detail.

This new addition to the EOS family offers a great solution to videographers and photographers of all levels, with two new lenses designed specifically for Canon’s new camera format – the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens and the optional EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens– and the ability to use the full line of Canon EF and EF-S lenses through the optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS M.

“The EOS M includes a unique feature set making it an ideal movie-making tool while offering incredible still image quality on its APS-C-sized CMOS sensor. The camera’s size, image quality, advanced video capabilities and the versatility of Canon’s full lineup of lenses make the EOS M another great option to help our customers record and capture their creative vision,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

Product Specifications and Features:
  • EOS Full HD Movie mode with Movie Servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects also includes:
  • Manual exposure control
  • Multiple resolution frame rates
  • Built-in stereo microphone
  • Manual audio level adjustment
  • Video Snapshot mode with touch-screen editing
  • 18.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
  • ISO 100–6400 (expandable to 12800 in H mode) for video recording, ISO 100 – 12800 (expandable to 25600 in H mode) for still image shooting from bright to dim light and high performance Powerful DIGIC 5 Image Processor for exceptional image quality video and photos
  • Hybrid CMOS AF delivers fast autofocus speed for video and photos
  • Touch Screen 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor II (approximately 1,040,000 dots) with smudge-resistant coating features multi-touch operation allowing photographers to use familiar gestures such as “pinch-to-zoom” and “swiping” to scroll between pictures and Touch AF for an easy and intuitive video capture experience
  • Scene Intelligent Auto mode delivers expertly optimized photos and scene detection for amazing results even when shooting at night
  • Advanced imaging features like Handheld Night Scene mode, HDR Backlight Control mode, and seven Creative Filters provide added versatility
  • Multi-shot Noise Reduction helps preserve precious detail in photos at high ISO speeds
  • Compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, including new Ultra High Speed (UHS-I) cards
  • Compatible with all Canon Speedlite accessories including the new Speedlite 600EX and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT
  • Compatible with Canon’s GPS Receiver GP-E2
An Advanced Video Capture Device
The EOS M utilizes Canon’s Hybrid CMOS AF system to deliver fast autofocus speed for both video and photos. The Hybrid CMOS AF system truly shines when shooting video with EOS Full HD Movie mode including Movie Servo AF for continuous autofocus and tracking of moving subjects. The Hybrid CMOS AF system is located on the CMOS sensor itself and combines phase-difference AF and contrast AF to achieve operational stability, speed and precision. The Movie Servo AF function on the EOS M is enabled by default which keeps images on the rear screen in constant focus, even before the shutter is pressed. This continual focus makes for sharp video capture in a snap or to help reduce shutter lag due to focusing when still images want to be shot. The camera employs three AF methods for video and photos, Face Detection & Tracking AF, Multi-Point AF for automatics selection and Single-Point AF, where users select one of 31 AF points. Through the camera’s touch-panel operation, subject recognition and tracking is engaged at the touch of a finger, allowing users to track subjects accurately and focus on intended subjects with ease. In addition to subject tracking, the touch-panel LCD allows for simple, intuitive operation, menu navigation and touch features making it easy to shoot video and photos.

Thanks to Canon’s new Stepping Motor (STM) technology, when using either of the newly announced M-series lenses – the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens or the optional EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens – the AF system remains silent, helping ensure users only capture the sound of the scene being recorded. The EOS M also features manual audio level control to 64 levels, a built-in stereo microphone, which includes a wind filter and an attenuator function to reduce audio distortion in extra loud situations. The EOS M records MPEG-4 AVC H.264 video as an .MOV file in a range of NTSC and PAL professional frame rates, including 1080p Full HD video at 30p (29.97), 24p (23.976) and 25p, 720p HD video at 60p (59.94) or 50p and Standard Definition video at 30p (29.97) or 25p.

In addition to the creativity afforded by over 70 compatible lenses, the EOS M also includes Picture Style settings – including custom Picture Styles – when shooting video, allowing users to adjust color settings the same as when shooting still images. The camera also includes Canon’s Video Snapshot mode for an easy way to record and create a fun highlight reel that can be easily shared. Video Snapshot mode combines a series of short video clips into a single file, all in-camera. Through the camera’s touch-screen controls users can delete, cut or re-order the clips in-camera for quick and easy editing.

Optical Diversity: New M-Series Lenses and Accessories
Along with the EOS M, Canon is also introducing two new M-series lenses – with new EOS M mounts –that include STM technology allowing for smooth and silent focusing when paired with Hybrid CMOS AF.

The EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens is ideal for shooting video and still images. The fixed focal length lens has a great capacity for gathering light with an incredible aperture of f/2 and when combined with the camera’s APS-C image sensor, provide beautiful bright images and background blur for both video and stills. For more focal range versatility, Canon is also introducing the new EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, which provides videographers and photographers with a variable zoom range for general use with video recording or photographing. Both lenses are designed specifically for use with the EOS M digital camera.

In addition to the two lenses, any of Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses can be used with the EOS M with the optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS M. The EOS M camera’s strong magnesium and stainless steel frame provide the durability and rigidity to support the full line of EF and EF-S Lenses in a lightweight convenient design. Using the adapter allows the camera to be fully integrated into the EOS ecosystem of lenses, adding creative options and versatility to this powerful camera.

Ideal for use with the EOS M, Canon is also announcing a new compact and lightweight flash unit, the Speedlite 90EX, designed for the photographer on the go. The Speedlite 90EX is capable of coverage for 24mm wide angle lenses (35mm equivalent) with maximum guide numbers of 30 feet (9 meters) at ISO 100. The flash unit can be controlled wirelessly for creative multiple flash shoots and uses the standard Canon EOS hot shoe mount for compatibility with all EOS DSLR cameras and PowerShot digital cameras that include a hot shoe.

Availability
The EOS M Digital Camera bundled with the new EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens will be available in October for an estimated retail price of $799.99. Also a white version of the EOS M Digital Camera bundled with the new EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens will be exclusively available through the Canon Online store, shop.usa.canon.com.

The new EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, Mount Adapter EF-EOS M and Speedlite 90EX will all be available in October at an estimated retail price of $299.99, $199.99 and $149.99 respectively.

Additional Images
Canon EOS M with EOS-M Adapter
Canon EOS M with 70-200mm
Canon EF-M 18-55mm IS STM
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2.0
[Source: SLRLounge]


New Pictures of Canon EF-M 18-55 IS Lens and Flash for Canon EOS M Mirrorless Camera


With our news of the leaked pictures of Canon's mirrorless EOS M, there are now pictures of a EF-M 18-55 lens and flash.

Canon EF-M 18-55 IS

Canon EOS M External Flash


Leaked Pictures of Mirrorless Canon EOS M with EF-M Mount Lens



There have been rumors of Canon entering the mirrorless market. With new leaks of pictures, it seems to be true. Specs and information are coming in bits and pieces but this is what we know so far. The folks at DigiCame Info posted what appears to be the first image of the new Canon EOS M mirrorless camera. The Canon EOS M will have an APS-C sensor instead of the smaller 1.85x crop sensor from the Canon G1 X and that Canon did not want to give Sony the sensor size advantage. Mounted on the camera is the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM pancake lens (36mm full frame equivalent). The new mount type is said to be designated as EF-M ("M" for "mirrorless"?). From the looks of it, it's going to be a point-and-shoot style camera with very few direct access controls, no EVF, and probably a touchscreen-driven system.

There will be a more advanced Canon mirrorless within a few months. Hopefully that will have EVF and more direct access controls.

We'll be updating this post once we find out more information. Canon will be holding an even on July 23rd. Maybe they'll announce the Canon EOS M along with price and release date?

For now, Canon Rumors has some leaked (blurry) pictures of the Canon EOS M and EF-M lens.

Canon EOS M Sensor

Canon EOS M Rear

EF-M 22mm f/2 STM
UPDATE:
Here are some clear photos of the EOS M.



Think Tank Photo: Sling-O-Matic Test Drive Program



Our friends at Think Tank Photo have just announced that they are launching one of their popular Test Drive programs. This one is for their revolutionary Sling-O-Matic sling bags. 

With Think Tank Photo’s Sling-O-Matic line-up of bags you have the photo industry's first sling bag that can be easily switched back and forth to either shoulder. The Sling-O-Matic's adjustable, fully padded shoulder strap "automatically" slides along a set of rails to change which shoulder the bag can be worn on.

You can try a Sling-O-Matic for free for 30 days! If you don't want to keep it, ship it back to Think Tank, no problem. If it meets your needs, on the 30th day your credit card will be charged. (Offer limited to U.S. addresses.) Check out the product video.

This innovation is the solution to the problem inherent with sling bags: they are designed to be to worn over one shoulder only. With one smooth motion, the Sling-O-Matic can be quickly switched to the opposite shoulder without losing the characteristics that have made sling bags popular among photographers.

The Sling-O-Matic series offers three unique bags to choose from, depending on the photo gear you carry. The Sling-O-Matic 10 can carry a standard-size DSLR and three to four lenses, including a 70-200 f2.8. The Sling-O-Matic 20 and Sling-O-Matic 30 can each carry a standard-size DSLR and four to six lenses, including a 70-200 f2.8. The Sling-O-Matic 30 also features a separate laptop compartment for carrying a 15.4" laptop.

Key Features:
  • Industry's first sling bag that can be easily switched back and forth to either shoulder.
  • Each bag fits a standard-size DSLR with up to a 70-200 f2.8 lens with lens hood in position.
  • All bags are flexible to fit pro size DSLRs with a lens attached.
  • Discreetly stylized to avoid obviously appearing like a camera bag.
  • Long side pocket for carrying a tripod, large water bottle, or other accessories.
  • Large handles on three sides.
  • Wide zippered pockets on front, back, and side.
  • Business card pocket for identification.
  • Removable/adjustable straps and waist belt for additional stability.
  • Small storage pocket for storing removable straps.
  • Fully padded compartments for protection.
  • Seam-sealed rain cover included.
I'm sure some or most of you are wondering what is the Think Tank Test Drive program. Here are some questions about the program:

What is the Test Drive program and why are we doing this?
We depend on photographers to give us ongoing product feedback. By offering this program, it allows our products to be thoroughly tested in the field by photographers in the widest variety of circumstances and environmental conditions.

When is the Sign Up Period?
Until August 31, 2012 or when all 200 have been ordered.

What are the requirements for the Test Drive program?
  1. After you test the product, you must send us a detailed evaluation of what worked and what didn't.
  2. You are allowed to use the product for two weeks at no charge – if you don’t like it, you can return it. If we don’t receive the product back within four weeks from the day it was shipped, your credit card will be charged.


Review: The Spider Black Widow Holster Kit


Review: The Spider Holster Black Widow Kit

Overview : The Spider Holster Black Widow Holster includes everything you need for the most comfortable Black Widow Holster experience. The Black Widow camera holster is perfect for any lightweight DSLR, Micro 4/3rds, Mirrorless camera, compact video camera or point and shoot camera. Slip on your Black Widow and carry your camera comfortably at your hip all day long without any cumbersome camera straps getting in your way. Light-weight and compact, the Black Widow is perfect for the vacationing photographer, or any activity where you simply want your camera easily accessible but out of the way.

Features :
  • For Small/Mid-Size 4 lb DSLRs
  • Works With Tripod Quick Release Plate
  • Camera Releases/Replaces Quickly
  • Use With Any DSLR/Tripod Quick Release
  • Leaves Hands, Upper Body Free
  • Fits Over or Under a Coat
  • Discrete When Worn
  • Lightweight, Secure, Durable
  • Camera Pivots as Your Body Moves
Spider Holster Black Widow Includes:
  • Black Widow Holster
  • Black Widow Pin for Camera
  • Black Widow Pad (only in Kit)
  • Black Widow Belt (only in Kit)


Deal: Canon Refurbs: 20% Off Cameras



Canon takes 20% off all factory-refurbished Canon EOS cameras via coupon code "SLR712". Plus get free shipping on orders $100+ with stackable code "SHIP712". Sales tax is added where applicable. Coupon expires July 31. A 90-day Canon warranty applies.

Coupon code excludes the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Body, EOS Camera Bundles, and Clearance EOS DSLRs but still works on other models.

The pictured refurbished Canon EOS 60D 18.0MP DSLR Camera is $800 - 20% off code + $0 shipping code = $640 with free shipping.


Deal: Canon Refurbs: 20% Off Lenses



Canon takes 20% off all factory-refurbished Canon lenses via coupon code "D2B712". Sales tax is added where applicable. Coupon expires July 11. A 90-day Canon warranty applies.

A best bet is the the factory-refurbished Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens (pictured), model no. 2514A002, for $100.79 before the above coupon, $80.63 after with $11.99 for shipping. This lens weighs 4.6 oz. and is intended for use with Canon EF-mount SLR cameras.


Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8L II Delayed Until Mid-September



The long awaited replacement of the Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8L will have to wait a little longer. Canon has delayed the release of the EF 24-70 f/2.8L II until mid-September 2012. The reason for the delay is said to be for “final adjustments in production”.

If you haven't placed your order yet, you can purchase from B&H or Adorama. It retails for $2,299.00.


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