Category: Rumors

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Rumors

Leica M9

Leica M9

It is rumored that the Leica M9 will be using the same sensor as that on the Canon EOS–5D Mark II. Reportedly, profiles for the M9 are showing up in certains versions of some RAW conversion software, suggesting that the new Leica is almost here. However, it would be quite strange if Canon indeed lends the 5D CMOS sensor to Leica as they’re not known to produce sensors for other camera makers. But then again, we know that Leica sells cameras with a huge premium which may just allow them to offer a good price for the 5D’s imaging sensor. And since the the M9 will be nowhere near the 5D Mark II’s price, there’s little chance it would hurt Canon’s market.

If Leica announces the M9 with a 21–megapixel CMOS sensor, it’s probably from Canon.

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Rumors

Rumor: Panasonic Lumix GF1

panasonic-gf1

Rumors have been circulating about Panasonic’s supposedly to–be–announced new camera called the “Panasonic Lumix GF1” that is in many ways comparable to the new Olympus E–P1. Utilizing the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) sensor format, such a camera would make perfect sense as there is a growing interest in compact rangefinder–styled cameras with interchangeable lenses. And with Panasonic’s stake at Leica, everyone’s waiting at just what Leica lenses will be offered for the GF1.

There is also a second leaked image supposedly with the details on the Panasonic Lumix GF1:

panasonic-gf1-details

Everything seems sensible to me. Now if indeed this camera is real, will Panasonic end the LX line with the LX3 or still continue producing successors to their popular model? After all, the LX3 is still selling well almost a year after it was released. More serious users can finally graduate to the GF1 while those just into good point–and–shoots can go with the LX3 or its successors.

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Bodies Rumors

The Nikon D300s leaked

Nikon D300s

Electronista reports that images of the soon–to–be–released Nikon D300s have now been making the rounds in photogaphy blogs and forums. The update to the D300 will now have HD 720p video recording just like the Nikon D90. Also expected in an SD slot for storage and maybe an increase in continuous shooting to 8 frames per second. Of course all these are pretty much just rumors for now.

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Lenses Rumors

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 10-18mm f/4 G ED N: A fake?

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 10-18mm f/4 G ED N

Have you encountered the rumored Nikon AF-S Nikkor 10-18mm f/4 G ED N? It would’ve been a good addition to Nikon’s lens lineup except that now, they’re telling us it is a fake.

Do you think it’s a fake?

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Bodies Rumors

Nikon D65 rumors

Nikon D65

Nikon just wouldn’t stop making great new products even if they’re already shipping more digital SLRs than everyone else, so now we here about a rumored Nikon D65! Here’s how this new product shaping up to be:

  • 12 megapixel CMOS sensor
  • 3fps
  • 9 AF-points CAM 850, 1 Cross type
  • 720p video
  • Live view
  • Dust reduction
  • To be released in PMA 2009

This is quite a sensible list of details so this should be a true camera. And with these features, Canon better start drawing up something better, preferably something that also has HD video just to go pound–for–pound with Nikon.

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Bodies News Rumors

Nikon D3X leaked?

nikon-d3x

News of a Nikon D3X, an update to the class–leading Nikon D3, has been making the rounds in photography forums the past few days. Ken Rockwell tells us about this with a photo of a cloaked Nikon camera which may be the new D3X. Most likely, the camera in the photo is a D3 but the D3X rumor should be true nonetheless.

Here’s the rumored specifications of the new camera:

  • 24.5 MP FX.
  • ISO 50 ~ 6,400.
  • Live View.
  • 5 FPS (7 FPS in DX crop).
  • Announce date: 01 December 2008.
  • Ship: Early 2009 (est.).
  • Price: $5,500 (est., USA).

Overall, it is basically the same solid Nikon D3 but with a 24 megapixel imaging sensor, putting it at par with Canon’s full–frame digital SLRs. It’s December 1 now here in the Philippines and we should be hearing more about this in the next few hours — if the rumors are true.

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Bodies Rumors

Canon EOS-50D rumored specifications

Canon EOS-50D

It’s rumor time once again! Photography forums are abuzz with what is rumored to be a replacement for the Canon EOS-40D, named the Canon EOS-50D. Of course rumors like this should be taken with a grain of salt, especially when originating from popular forums known with a wide range of users. But here’s the specs anyway:

  • 12.2 Megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Single Digic III Processor
  • ISO 100-3200 (High 6400)
  • 6-8 fps depending on grip
  • 3″ High Resolution OLED LCD
  • Will accept EF and EF-S Lenses
  • 11 point AF
  • 35 Zone metering
  • Viewfinder: 100 percent coverage .95 magnification
  • Pop up flash
  • New Lithium Ion Battery
  • Weather sealing slightly better than 40D

With these rumored details, I don’t think it’s as exciting as it deserves to be. When considering the 40D and similarly–positioned cameras from Nikon like the D300 (and maybe the D700), this news bit better be false or Canon will continue losing market share.

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Bodies News Rumors

Canon EOS-5D Mark II Rumors

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Speculations are alive about the reported replacement for the overdue Canon EOS–5D, expectedly marked as the Canon EOS–5D Mark II. Not necessarily revolutionary, the leaked specs still suggest a modest upgrade from the first generation full–frame digital SLR. As said in the DP Review forums:

The new 5D II will not be released at Photokina, but instead will be a surprise announcement on April 22, according to a source I am unwilling to disclose. The specs of the new camera are as follows (final name unavailable):

  • 15.3 MP full frame CMOS sensor (vastly improved light-gathering capacity per pixel: improved micro lenses; miniaturized micro circuitry; enhanced signal/noise ratio)
  • Weather sealing same as 1Ds Mark III
  • Dual Digic III with all-new “CXR” NR system reported to best 3rd party NR software. Available as a C.F with 4 levels of customizable parameters.
  • 14 bit A/D conversion
  • ISO 12800 (C.F. up to 25600)
  • Reported 1 2/3 stop sensitivity improvement
  • All-new 29-point TTL CMOS sensor with 12 cross-type for F/2.8 or faster lens (35% faster than 40D)
  • Micro lens fine adjustment for up to 14 lenses
  • 300,000 exposure shutter durability
  • 6.0 / 3.0 fps
  • 3.0″ LCD, 922,000 pixels
  • EOS Integrated Cleaning System
  • Live View (improved from 450D; latest generation)
  • 6/3 fps continuous shooting for up to 68 frames
  • MSRP $3499, available June 2

With this long list of realistic enough details, it seems the leaked info may prove to be true. What I’m not too happy about though is the ~$3500 USD price tag, putting it much higher than the first 5D. Quite unusual since Canon’s digital SLR line has a history of decreasing prices for newer and better models. $2500 USD would’ve been more right and puts it in a reasonale range compared to offerings from other DSLR makers.

But wait, is this really the Canon EOS–5D Mark II?

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Bodies Rumors

Nikon D40 & D40x: Good Enough?

Nikon D40

We’ve seen Nikon’s entry level offerings reviewed several weeks ago: the D40 and the D40x, all done by DPReview. Seeing that almost all reviews of both cameras proudly proclaim their strengths, are they really today’s best entry level digital SLRs?

Thom Hogan reviewed both cameras to compare and contrast their common strengths while identifying what may be better in one model, compared to the other. If I were to start in DSLR photography all over again, I’d go with the 6–megapixel D40 and invest my remaining money in good lenses. Getting a D40x means just more pesos (dollars?) spent with the same limitations from its cheaper sibling. And spending more would only be justified if one were to get a D80, or a D200. Thom specifically mentioned how Nikon has been able to maximize their not–too–new 6-megapixel CCD sensor:

First, the image quality is excellent. Nikon has proven once again that they know how to suck every last little bit of quality out of the 6mp sensors they’ve been using for more than four years. And amazingly, the included kit lens doesn’t let the sensor down. For those that aren’t trying to shoot wall murals and are satisfied with the size prints you’d get off, say, a really good desktop inkjet, there’s nothing to complain about in image quality until you get to ISO 3200, and even then some will find it usable at smaller print sizes.

So if you’re just starting to play with DSLRs now, you know the advantages of getting a D40, or a D40x.

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Bodies Links News Product Announcements Rumors

Is this the Nikon D40?

Nikon D40

Just a few days ago, several photos were leaked on the web on what is supposed to be Nikon’s latest digital SLR, the Nikon D40. This new camera is positioned to take the place of the budget D50, the lowest model on Nikon’s DSLR lineup. Price is expected at around $499 for the body only, with the kit going for $599. The kit will include the G-II version of the 18-55mm which was featured in the D50.

The Nikon D40 has a 2.5 inch LCD that has been very common for all recent cameras. It will have the same 6.1 megapixel CCD from the D50 and an ISO range of 200 to 3200. Despite having just 3 AF points and lesser dedicated controls at the back of the camera, this should be a bestseller especially if it pops up at the rumored price. 500 dollars for a digital SLR body — times are good for us digital enthusiasts!

Compatibility with older Nikkor lenses (those not designated AF-S) is one of the D40’s downsides, though this wouldn’t be much of a limitation for first–time DSLR users, the target market of this camera. For the casual shooter just toying with the DSLR idea, the Nikon D40 should be a good match. But for those with a more serious plan and looking forward to more options in terms of accessories and lenses, the Nikon D80 should be of better value.

For a more thorough analysis of this new Nikon offering, Ken Rockwell’s article on the Nikon D40 should prove to be very helpful. By the way, have you noticed that Nikon seems to be producing better cameras for the past few months? Somehow it feels like my Canon EOS D60 wants to pair up with a Nikon D80. ;) Though seriously, a two–system approach to camera gear is almost impossible unless you’re a seasoned pro with a fat paycheck. And even professionals at the highest level rarely do a Canon + Nikon gear lineup. Just not possible, financially and especially emotionally. ;)

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Bodies Lenses News Product Announcements Rumors

New Canon products confirmed!

Canon EOS 400D with the 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Yesterday’s news of new Canon products are almost officially confirmed as of this hour. We now have a live link for the Canon EOS 400D we mentioned yesterday at the Canon Australia website. They also have a running story on their new products which also includes the Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM and the Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM. Rob Galbraith also have coverage on the new consumer body and the new L lenses.

With these new leads, I’m definitely sure these three products are good as real. The next question is: Does Canon have a few more surprises?

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Lenses News Product Announcements Rumors

Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM

Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM

On the list of Canon products set for announcement, the new Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM is one special lens. This will be the first 50mm in years to be designated an “L” after the discontinued 50mm f/1.0L, Canon’s mark of excellence for its lenses. The f/1.4 and f/1.8 version of the 50mm has long been available but neither has been perfect, so the clamor for a 50mm L never died.

This new lens will have a ring–type USM providing accurate and silent autofocus performance, and at the same time allowing for full–time manual focus override, negating the need for toggling an AF/MF switch when the need for manual focus suddenly arises.

One possible drawback for this lens could be price. If you recall the recently new 85mm f/1.2L USM MkII, what used to be a 1500 USD lens crossed the 2000 USD barrier after being revised. We could see the 50L above the 1000 USD point, making it not too affordable for everyone. If they sell it at slightly above twice the price of the 50mm f/1.4, it will still be in the 750-900 USD range — fairly affordable. They should sell it at that price and see it fly like hotcakes, like the 17-40 f/4L which happens to be in the same price range.

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Lenses News Product Announcements Rumors

Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Along with the recent news leak revealing the Canon EOS 400D, there will be a new lens to be announced with the new body, the Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM.

The original 70-200mm f/4L USM is one of Canon’s best–selling lenses, it being one the most affordable while delivering excellent performance for a variety of uses. A good percentage of the Canon shooting population have long dreamt of an image–stabilized version of the lens which makes it a worthy alternative to the 70–200mm f/2.8L USM without the weight burden. Now, the dream walkaround telephoto zoom is here for real. Since this is based on the non-IS original, sharpness and details should be just as good.

The addition of IS will allow for hand–holding at slow shutter speeds, which makes me think that this lens is aimed more towards the amateurs toting 350D and soon 400D bodies. A good percentage of people shooting with these bodies are typical weekend hobbyists, the type that do not prefer to carry bags of gear and almost always do not have a tripod while shooting.

Right now, no price details are available but this lens expected around the 900 USD range. Any higher and it eats into the 70-200mm f/2.8L (non–IS) territory, cannibalizing sales of that great lens. Significantly lower will also put it in direct competition with the original 70-200 f/4L (non–IS), unless they decide to discontinue the old f4L and give us a cheap IS–powered telephoto zoom! At any rate, this will still be a very good lens.

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Bodies News Product Announcements Rumors

The new Canon EOS 400D

Canon EOS 400D.

News just broke out at the fredmiranda.com forums pointing to a thread in a Chinese photography forum revealing what will likely be tomorrow’s announcement of Canon’s newest products. Of significant importance is the supposed replacement for the entry–level 350D, the Canon EOS 400D. This new body will also be known as the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTI for selected markets like North America.

This new Canon body boasts of several improvements over the recent Digital Rebel. Among them, most notable are:

  • A brand–new 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, producing a maximum image dimension of 3,888 x 2,592 pixels.
  • Dust Removal System. A first for Canon SLR bodies, this aims to take away some of the supposed advantages of other entry–level DSLRs like the Sony Alpha A100.
  • 9-point wide area autofocus system inherited from the Canon EOS 30D. Yes, this body shares the same high performance AF system from its more expensive sibling, one that is even better than the 20D.
  • 2.5 inch wide angle of view LCD which is now almost standard among cameras released this year, though this one is said to be brighter by as much as 40% over that of the #0D and the 5D.
  • Just like recent Canon bodies, the EOS 400D will have “Picture Styles,” adding more creative options that allows for mimicking various “photographic looks” that we’re made famous during the days of film SLRs.

Many shooters from the forum were speculating that this camera would eat into the 30D sales, though from a consumer’s point of view, that could only be a very good thing. If this camera retails below the 1000 USD range, and it should, Canon probably has another winner in their hands. Looking at the success of the 350D and Canon’s aggressive price reductions the past weeks, the EOS 400D should be fairly affordable and appears destined to be another bestseller.

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Bodies News Product Announcements Rumors

The new Canon EOS 3D

Canon EOS 3D

Pictured above is said to be Canon’s upcoming EOS 3D, but really, is it? The same picture has circled the various photography sites and forums, and many have already ignored it as a hoax. However, a recent thread on the Fref Miranda forums appears to contain convincingly genuine details regarding a “Canon EOS 3D“, said to be launched in around three weeks.

Rumored features appear very exciting and if true, this camera will indeed be a worthy competitor to the Nikon D200. Some of the highlights:

  • High performance AF system with 27 AF points, 11 of which are cross–type sensors up to f/4, with the center point cross–type up to f/5.6 and capable of AF up to f11. This performance is comparable or even better than the 1D series.
  • ECF: Eye–controlled focus. A unique feature carried over from the Elan 7NE.
  • 13.3 megapixel APS-H (1.3x) sensor with DIGIC III, capable of ISO 50 and 3200 plus ISO 25 and 6400 as expanded options.
  • 6 frames per second continuous shooting speed, up to 40 JPGs or 18 RAW files.

If this rumoured camera is indeed real, this should push down the prices of other models significantly. Maybe we can have a full–frame Canon EOS 5D breaking the 2000 dollar barrier along with a Canon EOS 30D for less than a grand. Good times are coming if this is true.

The text of the “supposedly leaked” Canon document is provided below:

Introducing the revolutionary EOS 3D.

Built from the ground up to represent the new face of digital imaging the EOS 3D will represent a breakthrough in high performance yet affordable photography. Featuring an elegant yet supremely functional design it takes the best of Canon’s previous designs and enhances the experience even further. A high performance AF system featuring 27pt of which 11 are x-type down to f/4 while and the centre point is cross-type to f/5.6 and allows AF down to f/11. The AI servo performance has been significantly improved too, exceeding that of the 1D Mk II.

Also Canon proudly brings ECF to the digital era and is greatly enhanced in performance over that found in the Elan 7NE.

However, the true revolution lies in the heart of the camera. Packing an amazing 13.3MP into an APS-H sized sensor the images are processed by a new DIGIC III engine. The next generation DIGIC III Image Processor builds on the legendary abilities of the digic II with double the processing power necessary to deliver unprecedented levels of resolution, speed and dynamic range. Despite the EOS 3D having smaller pixels than the EOS 5D, the DIGIC III provides even greater DR, more accurate colour rendition improved WB and lower noise. ISO 50 and 3200 are now part of the standard ISO settings and ISO 25 and 6400 are now included as an expanded option. Also it further reduces power consumption allowing class leading battery performance.

Thanks to DIGIC III the EOS 3D also boasts an impressive burst rate of 6fps for 18 shots in RAW and 40 in jpg.

In addition the body adds several sealing gaskets to the all magnesium shell allowing for operation in more extreme environments. A new evaluative algorithm allows more accurate metering in extreme lighting and can even correctly expose subjects like snow. Also a 2.4% spot meter allows for precise metering of any part of the scene. The viewfinder shows an impressive 98% of the scene both horizontally and vertically. Also for the first time Canon will be employing 2.75″ OLED display screen, offering superior resolution, brightness and power consumption to LCD screens and having markedly better performance in bright daylight.

Visit this site for more updates on this new product.