The Sony NEX-5n is a very popular camera, and now Sony has followed up with the NEX-5R. I tried the NEX-5n, but didn't like the lack of buttons and dials, so I instead settled with the Sony NEX-7. Now the NEX-5R has borrowed some of the feature sets from the higher end Sony NEX-7 which is good, but probably the most interesting new feature is the ability to download apps to enhance the NEX-5R. One application example mentioned in the video was Remote Live view and remote control through your smart phone. Pre-orders opened up today in a variety of kits and colors via B&H (Click Here).
Personally I think Canon did a great job on the 5D Mark III to really dominate their own personal DSLR Video market, but the new 1DX will still be their flagship camera for high speed sports photographers. The 1DX sports a 61-Point High Density Auto Focus, dual compact flash media recording, Gigabit Ethernet Port, and up to 14fps burst mode. And obviously if you still plan on doing HD Video, it has all the features of the 5D Mark III and more, but beware of that $6,800 dollar price tag. If you were waiting on one these cameras, more of the EOS-1DX has arrived in stock today over at EOS-1DX full product page B&H.
Karl writes in and shares a new video camera slider from Gini Rigs. It's a double rail system that looks like it runs on linear motion bearings, and comes with a stop clamp so you don't overrun your slide. [Thanks Karl]
Of all the current slider systems on the market, i'm not really impressed with this design, or the almost $500 dollar price tag. I sort of feel Gini has lost focus on what made the rigs popular with DSLR Video and is now mainly focusing more on Red Scarlet and Epic cages with high prices. If you care to see more about the slider or the other products in the lineup, you can check it out at the Gini eBay store (click here).
Sorry for the long wait, but here is the official announcement about the new MagFilter System . This is the Polarizer i've been using with my Sony RX100 cameras. I was able to help with some ideas on this fast and simple filter solution that can be used with many of today's high end compact cameras, while leaving the camera virtually unaltered.
The MagFilter System uses strong magnets within the Aluminum filter body, and attaches to the front area of high end compact cameras systems with a very thin metal ring that adheres to the camera.
Using high quality coated glass optics from Japan, the Polarizer is the first MagFilters that will be available this week. There are two different sizes that can support a variety of cameras. The 42mm MagFilter works on cameras like the Sony HX9V, HX10V, HX20V, HX30V, and of course the new Sony RX100.
The smaller 36mm MagFilter works on cameras like the Canon S95 and Canon S100. I've been testing the Polarizer for a few weeks, and it works to cut glare from reflective surfaces such as water, glass, leaves, and even helps retain information in the sky.
One thing I noticed is that the Sony RX100 seems to retain more details in the shadows when using the polarizer, possibly because it cuts down on those specular highlights in the scenery. With very bright highlights, the Sony RX100 will try to retain this by slightly underexposing. With the highlights being controlled in the scene, it seems like you can get a more balanced exposure - at least that's what i've experienced in some of my tests.
Pretty insane deal going for a Canon 5D Mark III Body via eBay's Deals. Says brand new factory sealed with USA warranty at a price that's about $800 dollars off retail price. Check it out via eBay (Click Here).
The latest HDSLRNOW Quck Tip runs through a few different versions of the Linco Flora Fluorescent Light Kits. These are excellent lighting kits that throw soft diffused light, but they'll run a bit higher on price for the build quality and convenience they offer. The Linco lights offer quick setup portable softboxes and more robust head units that will hold up better for travel. For more quick tips, follow HDSLRNOW via Twitter.
Reader Zygimantis writes in and shares a link to the Fotga DP500II Follow Focus which is an updated version of the DP500. Like the DP500 it sports the marking disc, two adjustable hard stops, and reversible gear. The new DP500II (version 2) sports an improved gearbox with which they say has very minimal baclash, and an adjustment button for different levels of tension. [Thanks Zygimantis]
You can find more images and information about the Fotga DP500II Following the link via eBay (Click Here).
15mm rails, clamps, and handles can be found just about anywhere. For cheap dslr rig shoulder pads, there's not a huge variety yet. Here's a Dual Purpose shoulder pad that can be used on a set of 15mm rails to throw your rig over the shoulder, or for smaller Target Shooter style setups the pad can be repositioned into more of a Gun Stock.