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Review: XTAR VN2 4-In-1 Intelligent Visible Camera Battery Charger



Overview : VN2 has a design of removable charger head and plates. Simply by replacing charger plates, it becomes compatible with many camera batteries. VN2 currently has four replaceable plates (to be purchased separately) and allows charging four types of camera batteries: Canon LP-E6/E6N/E6NH, Canon LP-E17, Canon LP-E8 and Sony NP-FW50.

Features :
  • A smart 4-in-1 LCD display charger
  • Removable charging plates for 4 battery types:
    • Canon LP-E6/E6N/E6NH
    • Canon LP-E17
    • Canon LP-E8
    • Sony NP-FW50
  • 2-bay charger, 2x0.5A, 1x 1A
  • Digital display shows real charging status
  • USB Type-C port, with maximum input 5V 2.1A
  • Automatically cut-off after fully charged
  • 0V activation function revives your camera battery
  • Multi-protection for over-charge, over-discharge, over-temperature and soft start
  • Compact size, easy to carry out.


Press Release: Hollyland LARK 150 - Clip-On Wireless Microphone System



SHENZHEN, China, Dec. 3, 2020 -- Hollyland Technology has been doing pretty well with their series of budget wireless video transmission and wireless intercom systems. But with their alleged purpose to better serve the filmmaking industry, they are stepping into the professional audio world with their very first wireless microphone system - LARK 150. At this point, some may have doubt since Hollyland has got their expertise in wireless video transmitters, and moving towards the audio industry is a big step. Does Hollyland have the talent and ability to create what the customers need? The answer is, of course, YES.

Hollyland has been long involved in the audio industry with their wireless video transmission and wireless intercom systems. All their wireless video transmitters transmit both video and audio, while wireless intercoms are all about audio. So, it is actually not so surprising to see them coming up with a wireless microphone system.

Now, let's take a closer look at this newly released ultra-compact clip-on wireless microphone.

The LARK 150 is the first 2.4GHz digital wireless microphone system in the Hollyland microphone product line. It's equipped with highly-sensitive omnidirectional microphones for the best audio performance. The DSP method ensures a noise-free audio transmission by filtering low-frequency environmental noises. It reduces post-stage noise cancellation processing and improves the efficiency of content output. The tiny and super-light transmitter is well designed so it can easily be clipped-on to your collar or used with the included lavalier microphone, basically anywhere you'd like to attach it to. The charging case provides portability and convenience to this microphone system. Besides that, it charges the whole system about 2.5 times in addition to the 4.5 hour battery life on the transmitter and 7.5 hour life on the receiver. It auto pairs the transmitters and the receiver, serves as the storage box and the platform to upgrade the whole system. It has 100m transmission, two-way mute, safety track audio mode, real-time audio monitoring, and so many more user-friendly features make the system a perfect wireless microphone solution for different types of content creation.


Review: Meike MK-EFTR-A Lens Mount Adapter



Overview : This Meike Lens Mount Adapter allows a Canon EF/EF-S-mount lens to be used on a Canon RF-mount mirrorless camera. Electronic communication between an attached camera and lens is supported, enabling autofocus as well as auto exposure features. If an attached lens is capable of generating Exif metadata, this adapter is designed to transfer that information so that it can be saved with image files generated by a compatible lens and Canon-RF mount camera. Constructed with aluminum alloy, this adapter is durable while remaining lightweight.

Features :
  • Allows a Canon EF or EF-S-mount lens to be used on a Canon RF-mount camera
  • Supports electronic communication to enable autofocus as well as auto exposure features
  • Can transfer EXIF data from lens to camera, saving aperture, speed, and time of capture information to image or video files
  • Aluminum alloy mounting ring provides a lightweight and durable camera-to-lens connection


Kickstarter: X-Tra Camera Battery Re-Invented



 **UPDATE** - THIS IS A SCAM!!! SORRY. WE'VE ALL BEEN DUPED :(. 

A new product has popped up on Kickstarter that will probably benefit many photographers. One of the many concerns is battery life especially with the new Canon R5 and this new product, X-tra, may compliment it perfectly.

For many photographers, power is a major struggle. If you're shooting video or working in live-view, a battery charge never seems to last, so you're stuck carrying 3 or 4 batteries in your kit. X-tra battery is here to solve that problem and simplify your kit with one revolutionary accessory.

Think it’s hard to get excited about a battery? For most gear heads, power solutions and batteries have generally been the least sexy accessories there are, until now. The X-tra battery solves multiple photography headaches and even offers some solutions you didn't know you needed but soon won't be able to live without.

For starters, in terms of power capacity, the X-tra holds 3,700 mAh, which is two times the charge of Canon’s LP-E6. Previously the only option for a double capacity battery was to use two separate batteries within a battery grip, so lots of photographers will potentially be able to eliminate an additional piece of bulky equipment. The X-tra is a full-size camera battery, similar in size to the battery found in the Canon 1DX. The physical profile of the X-tra extends just beyond the bottom of the battery compartment on compatible camera models, providing a solid grip for larger hands and a comfortable, extra secure feel.

The X-tra was designed with that common issue in mind and features a charge level indicator to help avoid dead battery headaches. Unlike other batteries that you have to load in the camera to test, the X-tra will show you just how much juice you have left quickly and easily. With the press and hold of a button, you’ll be able to see just how much charge the X-tra still has with up to four illuminated indicators, saving you time and irritation.

For the times when you need to have your camera in constant operation beyond the life of a single battery, no matter how big its capacity, you can plug the X-tra into another source of external power via USB-C connection. Planning on shooting a 12-hour time-lapse? The X-tra has you covered with direct charging, no battery swaps necessary. Whether you plug into a wall outlet, a car charger, or another larger battery, you have the flexibility to keep shooting for long periods of time.

Another cool feature is the option to plug peripheral gear and accessories into the X-tra battery even while it’s in use by your camera. Using a cold-shoe LED light that requires an external power source? Plug it into the X-tra via the USB-C port and you’ll be able to power both your camera and light simultaneously. This will be a great space saver for photographers and videographers alike. Whether you’re using a powered gimbal, a microphone, or other peripheral gear, you’ll be able to provide power seamlessly as you work.

The X-tra comes with a special fast-charging case which serves two purposes. First, it allows you to charge your X-tra battery surprisingly quickly via USB-C. Second, the X-tra battery can be used as a power bank for any device when mounted in the charging case, so you can even recharge your phone on the fly.

The X-tra is currently compatible with the following cameras by Canon, Sony, and Blackmagic with planned Nikon availability coming soon:

- Canon: eos R, eos R5, eos R6, 5D IV, 5D III, 5D II, 5Ds R, 5Ds, 6D, 6D II, 7D, 7D II, 90D, 80D, 70D, 60D
- Sony: α7 III, α7R III, α7R IV, α7S III, α6600
- Nikon: z6, z6 II, z7, z7II, Z50, D500, D600, D610, D750, D780, D7000, D7100, D7200, D7500, D800, D800E, D810, D810A, D850, P520, P530, V1
- Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K/6K


Review: Hollyland MARS 400S Pro HDMI/SDI Wireless Video Transmitter



Overview : Add up to 1080p60 wireless video transmission to your gimbal, mirrorless, or DSLR camera rig using the lightweight Mars 400S PRO SDI/HDMI Wireless Video Transmission System from Hollyland. The transmitter provides HDMI and SDI inputs and the receiver offers SDI and HDMI outputs. It features extremely low 0.08s latency with line-of-sight transmission up to 400' to the receiver and up to 300' to the Hollyview Wi-Fi app. For a strong line-of-sight signal, the system includes two external antennas on the transmitter and two on the receiver, and one is included as a spare.

The 400S PRO transmitter and receiver are compact in size, feature a bright OLED display for configuration, and an integrated shoe adapter with a 1/4"-20 mounting thread for different mounting options. Each unit can be powered using a USB Type-C source, the included locking DC power adapter, or by using a separately available L-series type battery using the integrated battery plate.

Features :
  • Transmits up to 1080p60 SDI or HDMI video
  • 400' line-of-sight transmission to receiver, 300' to App
  • Bright OLED display
  • Real-time app monitoring and live streaming via the HollyView app
  • Simultaneously transmit to one receiver and two apps, or to four apps
  • HDMI and SDI inputs on transmitter and HDMI and SDI outputs on receiver
  • Two antennas on transmitter and two antennas on receiver
  • Power via L-series battery, DC adapter, or USB Type-C input
  • Integrated shoe adapter with 1/4"-20 mounting thread
  • Install optional channel scan firmware via the HollyView app to find the strongest signal
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Deal: Peak Design Black Friday Sale 2020



2020 may suck this year but Peak Design is having its biggest and longest Black Friday Sale that has hosted. Beginning Monday, 11/16/2020 at 12am PST to Monday, 11/30/2020 at 11:59pm PST, everything on their site (and in their Flagship Store) will be on sale.

Deals aside, it's business as usual: fast global shipping, 30-day returns, and a lifetime guarantee on everything.

SUPER MASSIVE BLACK FRIDAY SALE
  • 20% off all Everyday Bags
  • 20% off all Travel Bags
  • $60 off Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod ($35 off Aluminum)
  • 20% off all Bag Organizers & Packing Cubes
  • 10% off all Camera Straps & Clips
Don't forget to check out our EXCLUSIVE: Discount Coupon Codes and Deals.

10% OFF Peak Design Coupon Code $5 OFF $10 Amazon App Referral Trekpak Custom SLR Free Think Tank Photo GoodHangups
$5 OFF $10 Amazon App Referral 10% OFF Peak Design Coupon Code Trekpak Custom SLR GoodHangups Free Think Tank Photo


Review: Vemico Canon LP-E6 2100mAh Dual Slot Type-C Battery Charger



Overview : As a photography lover, keep your Canon camera always has power is very important, you need get enough power to shot more photos and longer video. Vemico LP-E6 battery and charger provide enough power: Two additional spare batteries and two charging slots ensure a you'll have a fully charged battery.

The Vemico replacement battery kit complies with the specifications of the Canon LP-E6 battery. With the Vemico set, you can also charge your OEM Canon batteries with a USB wall adapter, car charger or power bank.

Features :
  • Replacement battery for Canon compatible cameras (see list below)
  • 2100mAh high-quality rechargeable lithium ion battery with premium cells for longer battery life with no memory effect; when traveling and provides a reliable power supply for your digital camera / digital video camera.
  • The 5V-2A Dual USB charger can charge two batteries simultaneously with LCD display Real-time monitoring of charging status.
  • Fast charging, automatic low-charging system, Effectively preventing battery overcharge, over-voltage and other problems, 100% safety.
Compatible with the following models :
  • EOS 5D Mark II / 5D Mark III / 5D Mark IV
  • EOS 5DS
  • EOS 5DS R
  • EOS 6D / 6D Mark II
  • EOS 7D / 7D Mark II
  • EOS 60D / 60Da
  • EOS 70D
  • EOS 80D
  • EOS 90D
  • EOS R
  • EOS R5
  • EOS R6
  • XC10


Hollyland MARS 400S Pro Wireless Video Transmitter Announced



Hollyland just released the new MARS 400S PRO Wireless Video System that features a new form factor with a latency of 0.08 seconds with a range of 400 feet (122 m). The MARS 400S Pro HDMI and SDI in- and outputs and multiple power inputs makes this the ideal go-to for video monitoring along with eight channels to use on set to avoid interference and to ensure a stable wireless connection.

Features:
  • Transmits up to 1080p60 SDI or HDMI video
  • 400' line-of-sight transmission to receiver, 300' to App
  • Bright OLED display
  • Real-time app monitoring and live streaming via the HollyView app
  • Simultaneously transmit to one receiver and two apps, or to four apps
  • HDMI and SDI inputs on transmitter and HDMI and SDI outputs on receiver
  • Two antennas on transmitter and two antennas on receiver
  • Power via L-series battery, DC adapter, or USB Type-C input
  • Integrated shoe adapter with 1/4"-20 mounting thread
  • Install optional channel scan firmware via the HollyView app to find the strongest signal
They have incorporated a silent mode for the built-in cooling fan. You have the option to turn the fan completely Off, switch it to Low Speed, or Auto to let the system decide whether it needs to be cooled down, for different applications and better shooting experiences. When it is on Off, they may get a little bit hot, but as long as the temperature doesn’t bother you, it won’t affect the performance of the system according to Hollyland’s test results.

Resolutions up to 1920×1080 60fps can be transmitted with an optimized monitoring data rate which is improved from 8 Mb/s to 12 Mb/s for better image quality. One transmitter can either send a signal to up to 2 receivers or you can also monitor the image with the HollyView App on up to 4 smartphones or tablets. You can also mix-and-match with one transmitter sending to 1 receiver and 2 smart devices at the same time.

Similar to the MARS 300 PRO, an integrated Sony L-Series (NP-F) battery plate are on both the receiver and transmitter. Hollyland has also added the 5~12V Type-C wide voltage charging option and DC-Input in form of a barrel connector.

The Hollyland Mars 400S PRO is available and will cost $649 which is around $100 more than the previous MARS 400S model. You can purchase from Amazon and B&H Photo.


Kickstarter: Mobile by Peak Design



Our good friends over at Peak Design has just launched their 10th Kickstarter campaign. Peak Design has dipped their feet into the smartphone accessory market with their new Mobile line.

It starts with SlimLink, a square mounting plate that relies on magnets and a ceramic insert. Peak Design has made an Everyday Case for the iPhone 11, iPhone 12 and Samsung Galaxy S20 that has a SlimLink built right in. But don't worry if you don't have any of the phones listed. Peak Design has you covered with their Universal Adapter. Its a SlimLink with 3M VHB sticker on the back side that lets you attach it to the back of your favorite case. Peak Design also plans to support more smartphone models with Everyday Cases in the future. Peak Design is also looking to make their products be compatible with Apple's new MagSafe feature.

With the SlimLink, your handset can quickly attack to a number of Mobile-branded accessories. Peak Design has products such as mobile tripod, a wallet that doubles as a kickstand, wall mount, car, bicycle, motorbike and mounts. There's even wireless chargers too.

Here is a list of items and pricing
  • Everyday Case - $39.95 (MSRP) / $32 (KS Presale price)
  • Universal Adapter - $19.95 (MSRP) / $16 (KS Presale price)
  • Out-Front Bike Mount - $59.95 (MSRP) / $50 (KS Presale price)
  • Universal Bike Mount - $49.95 (MSRP) / $40 (KS Presale price)
  • Mobile Tripod - $54.95 (MSRP) / $45 (KS Presale price)
  • Car Mount - $39.95 (MSRP) / $32 (KS Presale price)
  • Kickstand Wallet - $49.95 (MSRP) / $40 (KS Presale price)
  • Mobile Creator Kit - $39.95 (MSRP) / $32 (KS Presale price)
  • Wall Mount (2pack) - $29.95 (MSRP) / $16 (KS Presale price)
  • Charging Car Mount - $69.95 (MSRP) / $58 (KS Presale price)
  • Motorcycle Bar Mount - $69.95 (MSRP) / $58 (KS Presale price)
  • Motorcycle Stem Mount - $69.95 (MSRP) / $58 (KS Presale price)
  • Wireless Charging Stand - $89.95 (MSRP) / $72 (KS Presale price)
In the mean time, take a look at our unboxing and quick overview video of some of the products that was sent to us. This product line has great potential. I know most people would be turned off slightly due to the lack of available case phone support. But people have to remember this is the first step and there are so many phones on the market that they have to choose which is the most popular phones that has a larger market share. There is the Universal Adapter for the time being.

I'm an Android user myself (Google Pixel 2XL) and I will be using the Universal Adapter. I am also in the market to upgrade our phones.



Review: Vemico Sony NP-F980/F970 Lithium Ion Battery Pack



Overview : The Vemico replacement battery was built exactly to the specifications of the NP-F970, NP-F960, NP-F530, NP-F550,NP-F570, NP-F730, NP-F750, NP-F770, NP-F930 and NP-F950. Larger capacity of 7800mAh. Just like the original, the Vemico replacement battery can be charged in the camera with the original charger. The Vemico NP-F970 battery is made up of high-quality premium cells to provide stable power supply and longer battery life.

Features :
  • Compatible with DCR-VX2100, DSR-PD150, DSR-PD170, FDR-AX1, HDR-AX2000, HDR-FX1, HDR-FX7, HDR-FX1000, HVL-LBPB, HVR-HD1000U, HVR-V1U, HVR-Z1P, HVR-Z1U, HXR-MC2000U, MVC-FDR1, NEX-EA50UH, NEX-FS100U, NEX-FS700U Handy cam Camcorder.
  • 7800 mAh high-quality rechargeable lithium ion battery with premium cells for longer battery life with no memory effect; 2 replacement batteries provide enough power for your digital camera. No more afraid with no battery no shoots.
  • Upgraded high-quality rechargeable lithium ion battery with premium cells, ultra-high capacity replacement battery for NP-F970, NP-F930, NP-F950, NP-F960, NP-F770, NP-F750, NP-F570, NP-F550, NP-F530.
  • 4 LED indicator lights shows battery level,you can check the remaining capacity, shutter count and recharge performance on the cameras power source info screen. Enjoy shooting and replace the battery in time.
  • PACKAGE INCLUDED: 2 x NP-F970/F980 Batteries, 1 x USB Charging Cable.


Press Release: Breakthrough Photography Announces New EF to RF Drop-In Filter Adapter



Back in August, we posted about Breakthrough Filters newly announced drop-in filter for the Canon R series cameras. Today, Breakthrough Filters introduced an all-new EF to RF filter adapter, making it the first non-Canon EF to RF drop-in filter adapter. The new EF to RF Drop-In Filter Adapter will start shipping on November 16th and is available for pre-order.

The all-new EF to RF Drop-In Filter Adapter delivers a number of hardware improvements including all-metal construction, dust and water-resistant weather-sealing and a detachable tripod foot for mounting to ballheads, arca plates and other mounts. Autofocus, Image Stabilization and EXIF are supported.

Breakthrough Filters is selling the new drop-in filter adapter for $199, and the first 500 units ordered will receive an X4 Clear for free.

Breakthrough Filters is also doing a buyback for the standard Canon EF to RF adapter ($69) as well as the Canon Drop-In filter adapter ($149). Get the program details on their website.

For more information visit: www.dropinfilters.com

Don't forget to take a look at our full list of EF to RF Lens Mount Adapter list that is constantly being updated with new adapters as they become available from 3rd party manufacturers.


Review: JJC EF-RF Lens Mount Adapter



Overview : The JJC CA-EF_RF Lens Mount Adapter allows you to attach any Canon EF/EF-S mount lens to the Canon RF mount camera body. It gives you the ability to use your primary lens and saves you the cost of purchasing new lenses. This Lens Mount Adapter retains full autofocus and image stabilization capabilities and contains no optical components, thus maintaining the original optical quality of the mounted lens. Its durable aluminum alloy construction provides a secure and solid camera-to-lens connection. The non-glare matte finish on the inside prevents reflections. Moreover, the tripod foot is removable and it comes with a 1/4"-20 tripod socket at the bottom.

Features :
  • For attaching any Canon EF/EF-S mount lens to the Canon RF mount camera body
  • Contains no optical components
  • Maintains the original optical quality of the mounted lens
  • Retains full autofocus and image stabilization capabilities
  • Made of durable aluminum alloy and premium brass
  • Non-glare matte finish on the inside prevents reflections
  • Removable tripod foot comes with a 1/4"-20 tripod socket at the bottom


Breakthrough Filters Launches ‘Breakthrough R’ Drop-In Filters for Canon EOS R System



Breakthrough Filters recently unveiled a new filter system called “Breakthrough R”, comprising of 27 filters designed specifically for the Canon EOS R system, such as the Canon R5 and R6. Every filter type manufactured by Breakthrough Filters is now available as a “R” drop-in filter, including a number of all-new filters such as the world's first Variable ND which covers 2 to 11-stops, without an "X Pattern", Black & White Polarizers and Infrared.

These filters work with Canon’s EF-EOS R Drop-In Filter Mount Adapter [Amazon | B&H Photo | Adorama].


Deals: Neewer Adjustable Carbon Fiber Camera Tripod/Monopod w/Ball Head



iTekLife via Amazon has Neewer Adjustable Carbon Fiber Camera Tripod / Monopod w/ Ball Head on sale for $119.99 - $40.80 w/promotion code NWTRI820 = $79.19. Shipping is free.

Features:
  • UPGRADED DESIGN: The unique design of 2 sections center column,which enables the maximum height of the tripod and monopod to be higher,and the inverted centre column can also realize low angles and macro shooting; 4-section legs with quick release twist-locks allow you to adjust the working height from 24.2-78.7 inches/ 61.5-200 centimeter in seconds
  • PRACTICAL AND ADJUSTABLE: The tripod can be folded to 18.5inch/47cm compact size and 3.3 pounds/ 1.5 kilogram net weight for easy carrying with bag; 3-position leg angle adjustment can help you take photos flexible for different scenarios and photography conditions
  • TRANSFORM INTO MONOPOD: One of the tripod leg tube can be quickly disassembled and connect with the central column to transform into a monopod, providing an alternative way of shooting; The height of the monopod is adjustable from 19.7-81 inches/ 50-206 centimeter
  • 360 DEGREES PANORAMA BALL HEAD: The specially designed 36mm metal ball head can rotate 360 degrees which will allow you to get the perfect shooting angle to create panoramic photography. It has 2 independent control knobs to facilitate the adjustment of each precise angle
  • ULTRA-STABLE: Made of finely crafted Carbon Fiber; Max. load weight is 26.5 pounds/ 12 kilogram for optimal performance; The bubble level indicator on ball head help to achieve accurate horizontal alignment and provide photographic stability. Center column is designed with a hook for sandbag to increase stability (Sandbag Not Included)


SOLD OUT: 3D Printed Canon Eyecup Eg Eyepiece Extender for 7D 5D 1D Cameras


Canon Eyecup Eyepiece Extender 7D 5D 1D

One of the most popular/visited reviews on our site is the JJC EC-6 Eyepiece Eg Extender. If you're not familiar with the eyepiece extender, it extends the eyecup 5/8" (15mm) from the camera body. This is useful for eyeglass wearers and others to keep the tip of the nose from touching the camera screen. Canon does make their own EP-EX15 and EP-EX15 II eyepiece extender but they don't fit any of the more recent EOS cameras.

We have been getting emails on where the aftermarket eyepiece extender can be purchased from. Unfortunately, they are discontinued and no longer being made even though the Canon eyecup (Eg) is still being used on current and new Canon cameras.

There are soft eyecup extenders available Amazon US, Amazon CA and Amazon UK.

But to help other photographers out who are searching for this extender, we created a CAD file of the eyepiece extender which will allow us to print a 3D model of it. The 3D printed version is almost an exact duplicate of JJC version but with some slight improved modifications:
  • Aftermarket : The 3rd party extender came with its own eyecup with a flat back which is slightly different from the Eg eyecup that comes with your camera.
  • 3D Printed : Grooves were cut out so that the OEM (Eg) eyecup that came with the camera can be used without have to buy new ones. If you lost or need replacements, you can purchase from Amazon US, Amazon CA, Amazon UKB&H PhotoAdorama and eBay.
  • Aftermarket : The 3rd party extender came with a cheap plastic lens to "help" magnify your view.
  • 3D Printed : Sole purpose of this is to extend the eyecup so that your face is not near or touching the screen. Also, the plastic lens only made your view even more distorted.
One thing that will still be the same is that some of the corners may be cut off when looking through the viewfinder because your view is now further away. Also, the viewfinder and OEM eyecup is rectangular while the extenders opening is a square. So this will require you to make slight adjustments to the positioning of your head when looking through the viewfinder.

 COMPATIBILITY

The eyepiece extender fits the following Canon EOS cameras that uses Eg eyecups:
If you're looking for an extender and your camera is not listed above, take a look at our DIY: Nikon/Canon DSLR Camera DK-17M Magnifiying Eyecup/Eyepiece Mod for a list of other Canon compatible extenders.


Kickstarter: Meet the REVORING from H&Y - A Variable Step Ring for your Camera Lens Filters



H&Y Announce The REVORING: A Revolutionary Adapter with a Twist
Imaging innovation campaign now live on Kickstarter

H&Y Digital Company Limited has announced the launch of a brand new Kickstarter campaign for the innovative step ring adapter, the H&Y REVORING and REVORING with Variable Neutral Density ND3-1000 & Circular Polariser combined filter, for use with DSLR, mirrorless and video camera lenses.

The REVORING is a true first in the image-making world. Its revolutionary design overcomes the need for multiple filters and step-up rings, saving photographers and filmmakers both time and money.

REVORING: The last word in filter adapters
The REVORING arrives as a completely new type of filter adapter. With its patent pending variable and tough retractable blade technology, it can fit any lens with filter thread sizes between 37 - 49mm, 46mm - 62mm or 67mm - 82mm, accommodating either 52mm, 67mm or 82mm screw-in filters for the sizes available at launch. This versatility negates any need for photographers, cinematographers and content creators to carry multiple step-up rings, which can make for messy kit bags and adding unnecessary extra weight.



Press Release: New Faster Luminar 4.3 with Canon 1D X Mark III and Sony A9II Support



Skulym launched the new 4.3 version of Luminar (save $10 using our checkout code "1KIND").
Luminar brings search, user experience improvements, 500px integration in the latest update
Luminar 4.3 adds a new crop interface, faster Looks experience, photo search, sharing through 500px, and performance improvements.

NEW YORK, NY – July 14, 2020 — Today, Skylum released the latest update for Luminar, version 4.3, focusing on enhancing the overall experience for creatives through several refinements and performance improvements.

“With its vast AI-centric features, Luminar 4 has become a state-of-the-art program for photographers and other creatives,” said Dima Sytnik, Co-Founder and CTO of Skylum. “With Luminar 4.3, we continue to optimize the user experience and focus on performance. We know that, with this update, post-processing workflows will become faster and will help photographers be able to get started quicker and easier than ever before.”

Available as a free update for all current Luminar 4 users, the latest update adds the ability to search photos, a user experience improvement to Looks, 500px integration, a new crop interface, and several performance improvements. It also brings a new space shuttle object, along with several improvements, for the AI Augmented Sky tool.
Luminar 3 users will also see the search function added in the program’s next update.

Photo search
With the new Search tool, photographers can find images in their library with ease. Search lets photographers find photos by name, folder, date, or extension, allowing for quick management of photos.

500px integration
Photographers can now share their photos with other creatives across the world on the 500px photo sharing platform.

Stability and performance improvements
Skylum continues its work on boosting performance in Luminar. With the 4.3 update, RAW files now open faster than ever before in Luminar, meaning photographers can start working on their images more quickly.

With the 4.3 update, Luminar tools also use less of the computer’s memory, resulting in quicker and more responsive sliders. What results is a smoother and snappier experience for creatives.

Those using older or less powerful computers should also see speed boosts to help them enhance their editing and management workflows.

Faster Looks experience
While Looks are a powerful part of the Luminar system, they can certainly add up as photographers bring in more packs and create their own Looks. Looks create a lot of data — everything from textures to AI content-aware tools which adapt to each image. Coupled with the amount of data within RAW files, there can be a slight delay in going through each Look.

Luminar 4.3 solves this issue, allowing photographers the ability to preview looks in an instant, just by hovering over them. In our demos and testing with photographers, the ability to preview Looks allowed photographers to browse them easier and make the decision on whether to go with the selected look much quicker.

Improvements to cropping
Crop & Rotate have seen a big update with Luminar 4.3, being moved to the right panel underneath Lens & Geometry. Photographers can open the tool and crop with ease and quicker than ever before. Windows users should also see a significant performance boost, letting photographers seamlessly crop their images.

AI Augmented Sky improvements
The AI Augmented Sky feature has taken creativity to new heights, enabling photographers to create composites that they never thought were possible. In Luminar 4.3, a new space shuttle object has been added to select from.

The AI Augmented Sky experience has also received several improvements. Photographers can easily flip objects and quickly position them, making it easy to perfect your piece of art! A marketplace section on the Luminar website has also been added, featuring objects for use with AI Augmented Sky.

Custom skies and sky objectsIn the AI Sky Replacement and AI Augmented Sky tools, photographers can now comfortably access a custom folder of locally stored skies and sky objects. It’s also now easy to copy and paste multiple skies in the sky folder in just a few clicks, for convenient editing.

Camera support
Luminar 4.3 brings new camera support to recently released cameras. Now Luminar supports the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III (uncompressed only), FUJIFILM X100V, FUJIFILM X-T200, FUJIFILM X-T4, Leica SL2, Nikon Coolpix P950, Nikon D780, Nikon Z50, Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, Olympus E-PL10, Panasonic DC-S1H, and the Sony A9 Mark II.

New masking brush workflow
The masking tool is now extremely easy to use, as masked areas are visible mid-process thanks to a transparent red mask. Enjoy viewing the instant effect of the tool for pleasant and fast editing.

Improvements to localization
Luminar 4.3 includes improvements to translations for all supported languages, and understands German, Japanese, Korean, Italian, French, and Spanish better than ever!

How to update
Luminar 4.3 is a free update to current Luminar 4 users. On a Mac, click in the Top Menu Bar and choose Luminar 4 > Check for updates. If you purchased via the Mac App Store, simply open the App Store and go to the Updates tab. On Windows, in the Top Menu Bar choose Help > Check for updates.

If you are running Luminar as a plugin with Photoshop, Lightroom Classic or Photoshop Elements, it’s also recommended you rerun the plugin installer.

An expanded user manual is also now available, making it easier than ever for users to search and find answers to questions they might have about the software.

Get your copy of Luminar 4 today!
Luminar 4 is available at a retail price of $89. Be sure to visit skylum.com to learn more and check out special offers throughout the summer.


Deals: Peak Design HUGE Sale - Weird Times. Weird Sales.



Our good friends over at Peak Design is having a HUGE sale right now. Despite what is going on around the world.
These are weird times.

As the economy slows in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic affecting all corners of the globe, our sales at Peak Design have ground to a halt. This doesn’t just affect our 40-person core team; it is devastating to our thousands of partners in manufacturing, customer service, logistics, and retail, all around the world.

We realize many folks are not in a position to be spending right now. But if you’re in the market for brilliant gear that’s guaranteed for life, we’re making it a little easier for you to buy it. In doing so, we hope to gas up the economic engine that we and our many partners depend on. Use our dealer locater to find a shop near you, and give them a call.
For one, they're launching the Travel Tripod globally on April 7th and donating 100% of tripod profits to coronavirus relief and climate change.

From now until then, they're having a big ass sale. Through April 6th, get 20-40% off almost every PD product at peakdesign.com or at participating local retailers such as AmazonB&H Photo and Adorama. And it wouldn't be a promotion without terms & conditions.

Details:
  • 20% off all products except Travel Tripod + tripod accessories
  • 40% off all V1 Everyday Bags (while supplies last)
  • Other discounts/coupons, including bundle discounts, will not be valid during this site-wide sale
  • Sale prices do not apply to IPP/EPP members
  • Discount not valid on previous purchases
  • Discount applies to product prices only, and not tax/shipping
  • Sale runs 3/31 through 4/6 midnight PT
Be sure to check out our affiliate/discounts for additional discounts codes and offers from other affiliates.

Thank you for your support. Be safe and healthy.


Kickstarter: Platypod Platyball Ergo and Elite Tripod Heads



Our good friends over at Platypod just launched their latest product on Kickstarter called Platyball. The Platyball is an inverted ball head with some really interesting design choices and features such as replacing knobs with buttons and bubble levels with a much more modern LED-based leveling system.

The Platyball Ergo's inverted design is made up of three elements: a stainless steel-reinforced 3/8-inch tripod socket, an Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release clamp with a twist-locking collar and safety button, a built-in panning turntable with a locking wheel and 360° markings/indicator arrows, supports payload of up to 22lbs (10kg), and (of course) a bottom-mounted ball-head that uses “progressive variable tension locking and unlocking buttons” instead of your typical knobs that are found on conventional ball heads.

With the Elite version, you also get “a patented and incredibly accurate LED-based leveling indicator that makes it stand out from other ball heads on the market.” The level uses a standard A23 alkaline battery for power, works in any orientation, and features three brightness levels so you can use it in a variety of lighting conditions.

The Platyball is currently available on Kickstarter for $199 for the Ergo model or $249 for the Elite with the LED level with shipments going out March 2021. For an extra $20 (Ergo - $219 or Elite - $269), you can get your Platyball December 2020.



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