Archive for category Brand: Canon
Canon EOS 700D – It Just Got Better
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on May 21, 2013
Road-testing the new Canon EOS 700D kit (with EF S18-55 IS STM)
But that’s where the similarities end. A big difference with the EOS 700D is the inclusion of Live View mode. With it, users can preview their image with seven different creative filters straight after shooting. This is a particularly useful application for photographers who like to apply the effects of post-processing filters on their photos.
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/250 | F5.0 | ISO 400
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/640 | F/5.6 | ISO 400
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/800 | F5.0 | ISO 400
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/800 | F4.0 | ISO 400
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/1000 | F4.0 | ISO 400
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/200 | F5.0 | ISO 400
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/200 | F5.6 | ISO 400
I took the EOS 700D for a walk at Marina Bay on an overcast day. As you can see from the above, the photos were unaffected by the pale lighting. The EF-S 18- 55mm F/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens works really well with the EOS 700D, producing sharp images with good contrasts. The lens focuses fast and quietly, behaving like a compact and light baby L-series (Canon’s high performance) lens. This combination of camera and lens is great for new DSLR buyers and photography enthusiast seeking a more powerful camera to shoot with.
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/800 | F7.1 | ISO 400
Photo created using the in-camera miniature mode
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/800 | F7.1 | ISO 400
Creative blur effect using the in-camera creative filter
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/320 | F7.1 | ISO 400
I did a little “high speed” experimentation in continuous shooting with AI Servo and I am pleased with the results. I fired a total of nine shots and they all turned out pretty clear.
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/250 | F7.1 | ISO 400
As Canon’s kit lenses always have a good magnification ratio, I used it to focus on an interesting little pink object off the riverbank that caught my curiosity. From a distance, the zoom-in shot has a nice 50% crop factor from the initial photo taken.
EOS 700D & EF-S 18-55mm IS STM | 1/200 | F7.1 | ISO 400
Overall, I am impressed with the camera’s results. The shooting modes are aplenty and the easy operation and usability place it ahead of the competition. The EOS 700D is clearly a worthy performer and contender to the other DSLR cameras offered at the same price range.
Curio-City with EOS Professional Allan Lee
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Articles & Videos, Photography Courses & Events, Uncategorized on May 7, 2013
Originally Posted at http://eosworld.canon.com.sg/site/event_details/27649
Singapore is a dynamic city brimming with unbridled energy, and a harmonious blend of attractions, culture, people and architecture. In collaboration with Shutter Journey Singapore, join our featured professional Allan Lee as he takes us on a walkabout in the city to re-discover scenes likely missed in the midst of our busy schedule. Follow your curiosity and uncover symmetrical shapes, patterns and unique sights along the city streets and buildings!
File Photo by Wong Renhao.
Date: 18 May 2013 (Sat)
Time: 3.00pm – 6.00pm
Location: Maxwell Food Market to City Hall
Fee: Free, limited to the first 30 EOS World members who RSVP
Please bring your Canon EOS camera and equipment.
Not an EOS World member? Click here to sign-up now for your chance to RSVP for this members-only event!
Editor Allan LEE Featured on EOS World
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Featured Photographers, Photography Articles & Videos, Photography Magazine, Uncategorized on April 30, 2013
Original Featured Article here: http://eosworld.canon.com.sg/site/articles/eos-professional-allan-lee
30th April 2013, Singapore – I was lucky to be selected by Canon’s EOS World portal to be featured under their EOS Professional Series.
EOS World is a portal for Canon users and those who are interested to know more about Canon’s systems and
equipments. The site features a really nice Gallery with photos properly categorized under the type of
equipment that was used to shoot the respective photos. There are also lots of events & contests posted
- a truly friendly portal and with nice articles and profiling paras – check out all at – Canon’s EOS World.
Visit: http://eosworld.canon.com.sg now!
2013 Sigma 120-300m F2.8 DG OS HSM (S) – Part 1
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Brand: Sigma, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on April 27, 2013
Photo: Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 & me | Photo Courtesy of Hayden Teo
26th April 2013, Singapore – 2013 Sigma 120-300m F2.8 DG OS HSM (S)
Sigma’s long-awaited “S” (SPORTS) Lens was (finally) announced earlier this month. And with its expected delivery to reaching the stores in May 2013, a demo unit was quietly shipped to Sigma Singapore for a hands-on preview.
I was excited to be the first reviewer in Singapore to be issued with this lens.
Photo: Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 & me | Photo Courtesy of Hayden Teo
Those familiar with Sigma’s Super Telephoto Zoom lenses will point out that this 120-300mm is the 3rd incarnation since the first appearance of the EX DG series. But the new 120-300mm is not just a cosmetic upgrade – this lens is redesigned from scratch, spotting high quality TSC (thermally stable composite) material for its lens barrel, sensible layout of control buttons, a new grip material for the zoom & focusing rings, this ultra bright (F2.8) super telelphoto zoom lens now sits at the top of the “S” line being the first “Sports” lens being launched under the new “Sigma Global Vision” directive.
Photo: The first Sigma lens to carry the “S Line” emblem | Photo Courtesy of Hayden Teo
There are more goodies. The new 120-300mm comes with the company’s signature super multi-layer coating and the blazing fast HSM for that spot-on focusing at incredible speed. At 3kg+, this lens is not exactly light, it has 23 elements in 18 group (that is a lot of glass!!!), 9 round aperture blades and best of all, it has 02 FLD Glass & 1 SLD Glass! Sigma’s FLD had always been a threat to Canon’s Fluorite as they are essentially identical with similar properties – so Sigma made this lens a “double-up” with 2 excellent FLD elements so you can imagine what this lens is capable of.
Photo: (Left) Sensible Layout. (Right) 120-300mm Mounted on Canon 7D | Photo Courtesy of Hayden Teo
On the design, I feel that Sigma had matured in many ways. The company works it’s lens design based on useability (ease of use), practicality (sensible design) and most importantly, it is designed for professional photographers. My previous reviews on the new Art series & Contemporary series lenses had seen Leica-like & Carl Zeiss-like quality, the new 120-300mm is no exception. When I handled the lens, it feels like one of those “$10K” lenses which is out of reach for many hobbyists & enthusiasts. But when I found out the humble asking price for this lens, it put a smile on my face. Now Sigma fans will have an affordable and professional level lens within their reach.
Photo: Another view of Sigma 120-300mm Mounted on Canon 7D | Photo Courtesy of Hayden Teo
Enough talk, let’s take a look at the photos that I had managed to shoot using this lens. As I am not a big fan of nature, please pardon my bad compositions instead, pay attention to the details captured. 
I decided to test this lens at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves.
Amazed? Well, let’s try more things. I decided to shoot my Behind-the-scenes photographer with his wife Adela Teo
while they are having some fun during the break. At the 2 extreme end of focal lengths.
Photo: Shot the couple at 120mm | Allan Lee
Photo: Shot the couple at 300mm | Allan Lee
Here’s another excellent example on the lens’ sharpness.
Photo: Photo at 100% | Allan Lee
Photo: Selected an area to crop | Allan Lee
Photo: Photo after cropping | Allan Lee
As we can see from the photos produced by this lens above, it is clearly targeted at Sports Photographers, Wildlife Photographers & event Portrait Photographers. Personally I will recommend the use of a monopod or tripod with this lens. This is an excellent piece of glass and a professional one too. Given its asking price and image quality, the new 120-300mm is for anyone who wish venture into the above mentioned genre, wants quality images and smart enough to save a huge amount of money.
As mentioned on the title, this is Part 1. Our sub-editors are working on Part 2 as you read, they are working the new Sigma 120-300mm on sports events right now. Do stay tuned to us.
Before I end the review, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to those who had recently shared my article links to dpreview, photography-on-the-net, DXO, Clubsnap, etc. This encourages me to work harder and to return with more quality reviews. Like some had mentioned, the reviews are not technical – and yes, I confirmed that. From day 1 when I decided to review photography equipments, I had always wanted to give my readers a real world perspective of the equipment that I am reviewing instead of bombarding the readers with numbers & specifications which they can easily find elsewhere online. So to be exact, this site is not for gear freaks, but for those who wish to know what their (potential) equipments are capable of. If you like what I am doing, keep coming back. If you don’t, too bad, well just too bad, this is my style, you are most welcome to visit other sites.
Some behind-the scenes shots by Hayden Teo.
Photo: Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 & me | Photo Courtesy of Hayden Teo
For more information on this lens, please visit here.
For other articles & reviews of Sigma Lenses, please visit here.
Special Thanks to Sigma Marketing (Singapore) for the lens!
I Love it!
IMPORTANT NOTE:
** Sigma had re-organized their whole lens line into 3 category.
They are “C” Lens, “A” Lens & “S” Lens.
C Lens = Contemporary Lens Line
Featuring the very latest technology, and combining optical performance with compactness, Sigma’s high-performance Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. Lenses in this category are Standard zoom lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, high-magnification zoom lenses.
A Lens = Art Lens Line
Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, Sigma’s Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. Lenses in this category are Large-aperture prime lenses, wide-angle lenses, ultra-wide-angle lenses, macro lenses, fisheye lenses.
S Lens – Sports Lens Line
While offering sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness, Sigma Sports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get exactly the shots they want. Lenses in this category are Telephoto lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, super telephoto lenses, super telephoto zoom lenses.
Sigma Marketing Singapore Pte Ltd. is a subsidiary of Sigma Japan Corporation.
For more information, please visit http://www.sigma-global.com
Photography Seminar with National Geographic Photographer Joe Riis
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Articles & Videos, Photography Courses & Events, Uncategorized on April 3, 2013
Join National Geographic photographer, Joe Riis at LaSalle College of Arts on 7 Apr 2013 and learn more about nature and wildlife photography! This seminar is exclusively for young and aspiring photographers from 13-25 years old.
Joe Riis is a wildlife photojournalist from South Dakota. A recipient of the Knight-Risser award, Joe’s work has been shaped by science and conservation, believing that photographs can connect our culture to critical issues threatening natural habitats and wildlife today. Since his first feature photographing the rarest bear in the world in Mongolia at the age of 26, he has won an Emmy in 2011 for his pronghorn cinematography on the National Geographic “Great Migrations” series.
Find out how he approaches photography as he shares his perspective from a trained biologist and core conservationist.
Date: 7 Apr 2013 (Sun)
Time: 10.00am – 12.00pm
Location: LaSalle College of Arts
Fee: Free, limited to the first 30 EOS World members (age 13-25 years old) who RSVP
Canon EOS World – Have You Joined?
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on February 27, 2013
My Lowepro Diary (Part 1)
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Brand: Sigma, Featured Photography Merchants, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on January 17, 2013
my new companion in photography, the Lowepro Pro Roller X300.
Photo: The Lowepro Pro Roller X300 arrives at my home.
(Pardon the Photo Quality as this photo was shot with iPhone)
As a photography instructor & commercial photographer, there are many times when I am faced with a situation like “one-bag-cannot-fit all” or when I am moving bulk of equipments and I simply have to split my equipments into many carriers and bags. The problem is, I only have a pair of hands. And with all my equipments in many bags, there is also the possibility of losing a bag or 2 in the process of transportation.
Apart from my studio bags which carries my strobes and light stands, the other biggest bag that I have for my camera & lenses is the ThinkTank AirPort Addict. And I have since “outgrown” that capacity in my line of work. And within a year with frequent uses, the ThinkTank has started to show signs of heavy wear & tear. That prompted me to get a bigger and better equipment bag that can out-carry, outlast & even outlives the ThinkTank that can safely transport my equipments and more equipments at the same time.
As usual, I went to my favorite photography store – Cathay Photo. They are probably the best “Photography Problem Solvers” as far as I can remember when I first stepped into Cathay Photo in year 2001. When I presented my need for a bigger capacity bag, I was answered promptly by one of the sales specialists to go for the ultimate carrier – the Lowepro Pro Roller X300. This is the largest flagship roller bag by Lowepro.
Needless to say, instantly I fell in love with it and the next minute, I was already driving home with the stylish looking X300. I shall refrain blasting about the specs here as you can check it out yourself over at http://www.lowepro.com.sg/ instead, I have this idea of showing everyone on how to maximize the carrying capacity, the configurations, the various uses and the special features via this series of articles which I had named it – “My Lowepro Diary”.
An immediate task on hand, I have a booking for a Portraiture shoot & a Macro Class this weekend and I will not be returning home for the next few days. This calls for a “heavy packing” and the Pro Roller X300 comes in really handy this time. Instead of packing my portrait gears into a bag and have all the macro gears into another bag, this time, all the gears that I need for the weekend are all packed nicely into the X300. That means, I only have the X300 & the Strobe bag, how neat is that?
Gears to be packed:
01 x Canon EOS 1D MarkIV
01 x Canon EOS 5D MarkII
01 x Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM
01 x Sigma 70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro
01 x Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro
01 x Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM APO Macro
01 x Sigma 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM APO Macro
01 x Canon 580EXII
01 x Canon MT-24EX
40 x AA Rechargeable Batteries
04 x spare batteries for (2 for 5D2 & 2 for 1D4)
+ other little knick knacks like blower, lenspens, cleaning cloth etc.
Pic: Large cameras like the Canon 1D MarkIV & 5D MarkII are Dwarves in the X300.
(Picture by Yu Ling)
This is how I had configured the paddings/ dividers to fit all the gears in.
*Some items are stacked thus visible due to the incredible depth of X300.
*Note how thick the paddings is. (Now look at those inside your ThinkTank.)
Pic: Super Large Lenses like the Sigma 180mm Macro, the 150mm Macro looks small here.
(Picture by Yu Ling)
Neat isn’t it? I specifically like the customizable & thick paddings which I am sure that in the event of a fall, these paddings will do wonders in protecting my equipments from shock and knocks. I shall be back again with more varying configurations and more features of the Lowepro X300 once I discover them – myself.
Meantime, should you be interested to know more about my other Lowepro bags (see below list), how I use them and for what purposes, please feel free to drop me a note at media_world@live.com , I will be glad to share with you as well as to advice you how to pack your gears correctly and using all available space at the same time.
Apart from this new Pro Roller X300, the other Lowepro bags that I own:
- Adventura 140
- Nova 200 AW
- Rezo 180 AW
- Stealth Reporter D650 AW
- Toploader Pro 70 AW
- Pro Runner x450 AW
+ many flash pouches & lens pouches which is too many to name.
Will be back!
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About Lowepro
Our trek started in a small Colorado garage over 40 years ago. Since then, we’ve been traveling the world on the backs and shoulders of the best photographers on the planet. We’ve learned. We’ve innovated. We’ve become a leader.
For over 40 years, we’ve worked to develop and perfect camera carrying systems – maybe to the point of obsession. But we’ve never stopped at just innovating and improving products. We strongly believe that we owe it to ourselves, and to our industry, to do whatever we possibly can to protect and save the environment. We take as much pride in this aspect of our business as in the work we put into the products you’ll see.
Most of our bags were inspired by helpful advice from you and your peers. We greatly appreciate your artistry and input. We’ve listened carefully to your suggestions, and we’re sure you’ll find something in these pages that’s exactly right for you. Because wherever you go on your next assignment, we want to be right there with you.
Visit www.lowepro.com.sg for more details.
———————————————————
About Cathay Photo Store Pte Ltd
Established in 1959, Cathay Photo since its very beginning has been driven by the objectives of providing the best photographic equipment, pricing and service to our customers. These objectives have ensured its continued growth from just two humble showcases occupying a quarter of a shop-front to its present five retail outlets, an administrative / distribution office and a warehouse.
It is constantly on the lookout for the latest gadgets and solutions to add to its line-up of over 60 internationally renowned brands, and recognizing the growing presence and popularity of HD video, due largely to the introduction of DSLR cameras with HD video capabilities, it made its foray into the Pro Video market, expanding its offering to products from brands such as Steadicam, Zacuto, Kessler Crane and Genus to name a few.
Having served the photography industry for over 50 years, and backed by its proud heritage, Cathay Photo is without doubt the preferred photographic retailer in Singapore today.
Visit www.cathayphoto.com.sg for more details.
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The NEW Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM – Test Shots
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Brand: Sigma, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on December 21, 2012
I was lucky enough to get the review unit for the latest Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM (EF Mount) from the local
distributor (Sigma Marketing Singapore) for a test run and a review. This is like the biggest thing now as every other
photographer – from amateurs to professionals – are all talking about this latest wonder from Sigma.
First impressions – the lens does not feel or even look like a Sigma lens! The new metal coating on the lens body
simply reminds me of those Leica lenses and the focusing rings are nice to the hand’s touch. The Sigma 35mm F1.4
DG HSM has a very solid feel and the layout of the lens are purposeful for ease of use and the lens is
considered quite compact and light (665g) too. This is not just a “Love at First Sight” DSLR lens, the specs are
amazing too.
Featuring Aspherical glass on the 1st and last element, FLD glass (Low Dispersion Glass) on
the 2nd element, SLD Glass on 6th, 8th, 10th & 11th element, this lens is like a “Leica-Spec + Carl Zeiss-build”
combination. Everything about this lens just seems so well sorted and thought of.
So does this lens really deserves the rave? I took it out on a short walk and tried it out. My wife took
my Canon 5D MarkII for the weekend so I decided to have it mounted on my Canon EOS 1D MarkIV.
So with the given crop factor of x1.3 on this Canon APS-H sensor, effectively I get a very useable 45.5mm
for a walkabout. I will now let the photos do the talking, commentaries after the jump.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/500, F4, ISO 320 EV -3.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/100, F2.8, ISO 400 EV +1.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/80, F1.4, ISO 400 EV -1.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/125, F2, ISO 400 EV -2.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/100, F2, ISO 400 EV0.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/80, F1.4, ISO 400 EV +1.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/80, F1.4, ISO 400 EV +1.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM at 1/60, F5.6, ISO 400 EV +3.
From the above photos, I see amazing colors, sharpness and beautiful bokeh, all from the new Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM. All the above photos are not edited except straightening and cropping with the camera set to standard for every settings. To certain extent, I feel this lens is just as good as the “other 35mm F1.4″ lenses by manufacturers but asking
price is much lower. This is welcoming to those whose wants a quality lens but do not wish to spend too much on it.
On overall, this lens is certainly worth buying if you had not own a 35mm range lens. And trust me, this
is no longer the same Sigma lens that you might expect, this is something totally new, totally refreshing and
totally make sense if you ever got a chance to lay your hands on one of this lens. As the Flagship Sigma lens,
the 35mm F1.4 DG HSM had set a new & high standard for the future updates of it’s lenses product line.
We will be watching Sigma’s development closely.
Some quick specs:
- 35mm Focal Length (52.5mm on Nikon, Sony, Pentax APS-C bodies, 45.5mm on Canon APS-H/ 56mm on Canon APS-C bodies)
- Aperture F1.4-F16.
- Minimum Focusing Distance 30cm
- Filter Size 67mm
- Retail Box includes the Lens, Hood, caps, Manuel & Pouch.
- Sigma A Lens* (See Below)
For more information or specifications on this lens click here.
Thank You Sigma Marketing Singapore for making this review possible & not to forget our Project Photographer Julian Tan.
-Editor.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
** Sigma had re-organized their whole lens line into 3 category.
They are “C” Lens, “A” Lens & “S” Lens.
C Lens = Contemporary Lens Line
Featuring the very latest technology, and combining optical performance with compactness, Sigma’s high-performance Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. Lenses in this category are Standard zoom lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, high-magnification zoom lenses.
A Lens = Art Lens Line
Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, Sigma’s Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. Lenses in this category are Large-aperture prime lenses, wide-angle lenses, ultra-wide-angle lenses, macro lenses, fisheye lenses.
S Lens – Sports Lens Line
While offering sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness, Sigma Sports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get exactly the shots they want. Lenses in this category are Telephoto lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, super telephoto lenses, super telephoto zoom lenses.
Sigma Marketing Singapore Pte Ltd. is a subsidiary of Sigma Japan Corporation.
For more information, please visit http://www.sigma-global.com
The New Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Brand: Sigma, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on December 18, 2012
Comparisons were never (really) fair when it comes to photography gears. But when it comes to updating
old models, manufacturers will always release another “better” version of the previous version, isn’t that
all sounds too familiar to you? Earlier this year, Sigma Corporation released an updated version of its
180mm F3.5 Macro and had it replaced with a totally brand new 180mm F2.8 Macro. I was given a weekend
to “play” with this lens by the local distributor APDS and I totally love it. Why?
First Impressions – This is lens is huge. When I brought it out for a class, my students were thinking I was trying
to shoot birds. With the hood in position, the 180mm is Goliath by any standards. I was issued with a Canon-EF Mount version so I brought it out with my Canon EOS 1D MarkIV. The Lens + the body, it is heavy. I will recommend the use of
of monopod or tripod with this set up. The lens exterior had been given a major rework, it’s a like a lens built from
scratch and nothing resembles the previous F3.5 version. The new coating on the lens body feels very much like
something out of a Carl Zeiss box, sleek & elegant and the focusing is smooth as cream.
Picture: The Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM on a Canon EOS 1D Mark IV
Remembering the previous Sigma 180mm F3.5 Macro, this lens is not just a replacement, it is a brand
new lens by itself. Reading up, the lens elements is now arranged in a different configuration, 3 FLD glass
(FLD which stands for SIGMA’s new proprietary “F” Low Dispersion, and has the same optical performance
as Fluorite glass – commonly found in Canon L-Series lenses) along with the various floating lens group
that gives super fast focusing (HSM) and tack sharp photos as this lens also comes with the company’s
Super Multi-Layer Coating on the lens elements.
It has a closer focusing distance of 47cm, the latest version of Sigma’s optical stabilizer (OS) that promises a 4 stop slower shooting speed and the 9 blades aperture gives smooth bokehs. I shall not bore you further with the technical
specifications and let’s look at the photos from this 180mm Macro.
Well, I love the colors and the sharpness of this lens. A few of my students asked me how I feel about using
this 180mm F2.8 Macro as compare to the Canon’s EF-180,mmF3.5L USM and my answer is simple -
it’s a different lens now.
Previously when the public compared the older Sigma 180mm F3.5 with Canon’s
equivalent, Sigma’s version was unfairly noted as a “quick-put-together” to lure consumers away from
Canon’s version with it’s almost similar specifications and with a lower price tag.
But the new Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is a new breed, so it will be unfair again to
compare to other lenses of this range. Everything else about this lens from its solid exterior construction
to its inner elements just simply announce “This is the NEW Generation of Sigma Optics”.
Like every gear I reviewed, it cannot be a 100% buy for me. As a “Closet Gear Head” myself, i have touched
hundreds of Lenses and the “Feel” is very important to me. Although I like this lens very much, I do have
complaints, the weight can really tires a person out – that was why earlier I recommend the use of a tripod
or monopod with this lens. And hey, apart from the weight issue, everything about this lens just screams
“Buy”!
Some Quick Specs here:
- Focal Range 180mm (270mm on Nikon, Sony-Minolta, APS-C bodies & 288mm on Canon APS-C bodies)
- Filter Size 86mm
- Inside the retail box, you get the Lens, a nicely cushioned pouch, instructions, hood, tripod ring & warranty papers.
- Aperture F2.8 to F22
- Magnification 1:1
- Minimum focusing distance 47cm.
For the full specifications and more information on this wonder-macro lens, click here.
For Purchase information and local enquiries, please click here. (Singapore & Malaysia)
Special Thanks to Sigma Marketing Singapore for allowing this review to happen.
Sigma Marketing Singapore Pte Ltd. is a subsidiary of Sigma Japan Corporation.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
** Sigma had re-organized their whole lens line into 3 category.
They are “C” Lens, “A” Lens & “S” Lens.
C Lens = Contemporary Lens Line
Featuring the very latest technology, and combining optical performance with compactness, Sigma’s high-performance Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. Lenses in this category are Standard zoom lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, high-magnification zoom lenses.
A Lens = Art Lens Line
Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, Sigma’s Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. Lenses in this category are Large-aperture prime lenses, wide-angle lenses, ultra-wide-angle lenses, macro lenses, fisheye lenses.
S Lens – Sports Lens Line
While offering sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness, Sigma Sports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get exactly the shots they want. Lenses in this category are Telephoto lenses, telephoto zoom lenses, super telephoto lenses, super telephoto zoom lenses.
Sigma Marketing Singapore Pte Ltd. is a subsidiary of Sigma Japan Corporation.
For more information, please visit http://www.sigma-global.com
Light (Photo) Contest by EOS World
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Contests, Uncategorized on December 12, 2012
Christmas lights are beautiful to behold and even prettier to photograph. Although there are challenges with shooting in low light, it also offers tremendous creative opportunities. Capture the magical atmosphere created by the light installations during this festive season and let the colours and splendour get you in the Christmas mood.
Submit 1-3 photos that best captures “lights” accompanied with a caption that tells us what is happening in the photo/where it was taken (maximum 30 words).
The most well composed, interesting or exciting photo will stand the chance to win an EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens worth $159!
It’s really simple to participate, just follow the Photo Submission Steps below.
Photo Submission Steps:
Step 1: Register as member of EOS World http://www.canon.com.sg/eosworld/user/register (if you are already a registered EOS World user, please skip down to Step 3)
Step 2: Activate your account from your email
Step 3: Create a Lightbox (Gallery) and upload the photos (Maximum 3 Photos) - Name your Lightbox as “Light Photo Contest” - Give your photo/s a title - All entries to be accompanied by description (maximum 30 words)
Step 4: Go back to the contest page and click “Submit Entry”
Step 5: Select the photos from your LightBox and click “Submit” Minimum File size: 1MB (per image) Maximum File size: 8MB (per image)
Good luck!
For more information, please visit www.canon.com.sg/eosworld.
Apple iPhone with Carl Zeiss 17.5mm F1.5 Pancake (APSC Sensor)
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Brand: Nikon, Brand: Olympus, Brand: Others (Cosina, Carl Zeiss, Leica, Mamiya, Samyang, Vivitar, Zenitar,etc), Brand: Pentax, Brand: Sigma, Brand: Sony, Brand: Tamron, Brand: Tokina, Group Test & Reviews, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on December 4, 2012
Picture: Apple iPhone with Carl Zeiss 175/1.5 Pancake (Taken From Internet, Source Unknown).
Ever wonder what would have been the result had Apple decides to work more seriously with Camera Manufacturers?
Can You imagine the next iPhone that probably comes with a Carl Zeiss 17.5mm (26mm equivalent in 35mm format) with a super bright aperture of F1.5? And the Zeiss lens even comes in a Pancake!
Here’s an imagined specifications which I think might be possible: -
iPhone Carl Zeiss Edition.
- APS-C type CMOS Sensor (23.5 x 15.7mm)
- 21.6 Megapixel
- RGB (Primary) color filter array
- Apple Lens Mount (Ai-Mount)
- Sound Waves Sensor Cleaning
- Aspect Ratio in 3:2, 16:9 & 1:1
- Recording in Raw, Raw + Jpeg & the regular Jpeg Fine, Jpeg Medium & Jpeg Small.
- Full HD 1080 Video Recording.
- Built in Body Image Stabilizer.
- Exposure Mode (Via Carl Zeiss Apps from iTunes) Program, Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority & Automatic.
- ISO Sensitive 100-6400 (expandable to ISO50- 12,800)
- Metering via its newly developed 149 zones vary-light meter allowing spot metering or wide area metering.
- Exposure compensation can now adjusted in 1/2 & 1/3 steps, this iphone allows 1/5 & 1/8 adjustments. (via apps)
- White Balance modes comes in Auto (AWB), Sunlight, Low Light, No Light, Weird Light.
- Drive Modes available are Single, Continuous High (18fps), Continuous Low (7fps), Timer (2-30 seconds), Bulb.
- PictBridge & GPS Compliant (via Apps)
Picture: The New Ai-Mount lens mount showing the low pass filter.
Picture: 12 contact points between the lens and the iphone to related distance information,
metering processes, AF confirmation and focusing, AI-Servo algorithms and Image Stabilizer Sensories.
Amazed? Before you leave this page to Amazon or eBay to search for this, Please don’t.
I would like to clarify again that the above is imagined and it is not real. I am just talking about the possibilities.
All specs above are stolen from a variety of camera’s specifications ranging from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax, Olympus & Samsung.
Please don’t come after me for whatsoever reasons. This post is meant to be a joke.
Happy Shooting!
Lensbaby Ignites Creativity with Spark™
- a Fun & Affordable Selective Focus Lens
Lensbaby Spark is a perfect entry point into the Lensbaby system for photo enthusiasts who want a fun way to break out of the box
Portland, OR – Lensbaby will announce at Photokina the release of Spark, a fun and affordable addition to the Lensbaby lens family. If you are visiting Photokina, stop by to see Spark first-hand at the Lensbaby booth: Hall 5.2, Booth D31.
Spark is geared towards young photo enthusiasts who are looking for a creative spark to help break out of the box of traditional photography.
Spark lets photographers capture creative images in-camera that have a sweet spot of focus surrounded by beautiful artistic blur. It is a manual focus lens that provides a fun, tactile shooting experience. Photographers squeeze to focus, and tilt to move the “sweet spot” of focus around the image.
“Spark sprouted from Lensbaby’s fun and creative roots,” said Craig Strong, Lensbaby Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder. “We crafted Spark for photographers who look to go beyond their predictable kit lens and experiment with visual spontaneity in-camera.”
This new Lensbaby speaks to youthful, adventurous photographers looking for fun, creative tools to help tell their unique story. Indomitable photographers who harness energy and inspiration by capturing the magic of fleeting moments through their camera lenses will find a kindred spirit in Spark. Whether documenting their experiences on vacation, or their daily escapades in their own hometown, Spark is designed to help young, creative photographers express themselves.
Spark is a lightweight lens with a unique 50mm selective focus multi-coated glass doublet optic. The optic features an f/5.6 fixed aperture providing ease of use for new Lensbaby enthusiasts.
Lensbaby Spark Product Specifications:
- Focal Length: 50mm
- Aperture: Fixed f/5.6
- Optic: Multi-Coated Glass Doublet
- Focus Type: Manual Sweet Spot, Selective Focus Lens (creates a sweet spot of focus surrounded by gradually increasing blur)
- Available for Canon and Nikon Mount DSLRs
- Focusing Range: Approximately 13″ (33cm) to Infinity
- Compatible with Lensbaby Optic Swap System and all Lensbaby 37mm Threaded Accessory Lenses
Singapore Distributor for Lensbaby
Cathay Photo Store (Pte) Ltd
Tel: +65 6338 1176
For Sale: Canon EOS 300 35mm SLR
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Buy & Sell, Uncategorized on June 17, 2012
Name of Item: Canon EOS 300 35mm SLR
Quantity: 01 Unit.
Type: 35mm Film SLR
Condition: 9.5 (1 being bad to 10 being Mint.)
Warrranty: No.
Other: Body + Cap + Strap + Original Canon Grip.
Your asking price: SGD $165.00 – not negotiable ($140 without Grip)
Your Email: media_world@live.com
Additional Description:
1 of the best semi Pro SLR in those days. This unit is in Excellent Condition and well kept & maintained. Shutter sound very strong and viewfinder is clean. One of the best SLR during its time. One of the best back up body to your digital full frame DSLRs.
Take all Canon EF Mount Lenses..
Note:
Nil
For Sale: Canon EOS 500n 35mm SLR
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Buy & Sell, Uncategorized on June 17, 2012
Name of Item: Canon EOS 500n 35mm SLR
Quantity: 01 Unit.
Type: 35mm Film SLR
Condition: 8.5 (1 being bad to 10 being Mint.)
Warrranty: No.
Other: Body + Cap + Strap + Original Canon Grip.
Your asking price: SGD $145.00 – not negotiable ($120 without Grip)
Your Email: media_world@live.com
Additional Description:
Excellent Condition and well kept & maintained. Shutter sound very strong and viewfinder is clean. One of the best SLR during its time. You wun find a better condition unit than this – if you do, full refund + no question asked. One of the best back up body to your digital full frame DSLRs. Take all Canon EF Mount Lenses..
Note:
Nil
For Sale: Canon EOS 88 35mm SLR
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Buy & Sell, Uncategorized on June 17, 2012
Updated: 22nd June 2012
Name of Item: Canon EOS 88 35mm SLR
Quantity: 01 Unit.
Type: 35mm Film SLR
Condition: 9 (1 being bad to 10 being Mint.)
Warrranty: No.
Other: Body + Cap + Strap + Original Canon Grip.
Your asking price: SGD $135.00 – not negotiable ($110 without Grip)
Your Email: media_world@live.com
Additional Description:
Excellent Condition and well kept & maintained. Shutter sound very strong and viewfinder is clean. One of the best SLR during its time. You wun find a better condition unit than this – if you do, full refund + no question asked. Takes ALL Canon EEF Mount Lenses.
Note:
Nil
Canon brings touch to the DSLR with the EOS 650D
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on June 9, 2012
Touch panel, Continuous AF Servo and the DIGIC 5 image processor come together to redefine user experience and bring amateur photography to a new level!
Singapore, 8 June 2012 – Canon Singapore today introduced the next step in the evolution of DSLRs with the launch of the EOS 650D, the first DSLR in the world featuring a touch screen interface*. Driven by an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor and the powerful DIGIC 5 imaging processor, the new Vari-angle Touch Screen Interface brings an intuitive user experience to the table with the use of familiar touch gestures like pinching, zooming and swiping.
“Canon has always focused on enriching user experiences. Touch screen technology has changed the way we use our devices and made them more accessible, which is why we have introduced it to the EOS 650D,” said Andrew Koh, Senior Director and General Manager of the Consumer Imaging and Information Products Group, Canon Singapore. “Along with the new Hybrid CMOS AF system and the DIGIC 5 image processor, we are confident that the EOS 650D will be a compelling choice for amateurs looking to bring their photography to the next level.”
Intuitive touch panel: a world-first for DSLRs
The introduction of touch promises to bring a whole new user experience to DSLR photography. The 3-inch 3:2 ratio Vari-angle Clear View LCD II capacitive touch screen allows familiar touch gestures such as pinching, zooming and swiping. Commonly used EOS controls have also been integrated into the touch panel experience, allowing users to conveniently change settings like shutter speed or aperture value easily via the touch screen. The touch screen also features anti-smudge coating and reduced reflective glare when taking pictures under bright conditions.
Composing images with peace of mind
The EOS 650D empowers both amateur and professional photographers with a host of improved functions and new creative imaging features. A wider ISO range from 100 to 12800 (expandable to 25600) gives users more freedom to capture sharp images in a wide variety of lighting conditions.
The Multi Shot Noise Reduction function allows users to take four consecutive shots which the camera will automatically merge and align to compensate for noise while improving detail and definition. Night photography is also more convenient with the new Handheld Night Scene mode, which lets photographers capture dark scenes without the need for a tripod. This is achieved by capturing four shots consecutively at a fast shutter speed, then automatically merging them internally to form a single sharp image. The EOS 650D also offers HDR Backlight Control, where it shoots 3 images at different exposures to combine into a single, perfectly expose image, preserving details from both bright and dark areas.
EOS Scene Detection technology has also undergone significant improvements. Users can directly apply one of seven effects (Grainy/Black & White, Soft Focus, Toy Camera, Miniature, Art Bold, Water Painting, & Fish-eye) to their pictures without additional post-processing on the computer. A new Night Scene assesses point light sources or ambient light to automatically adjust exposure settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO), based on whether a tripod is currently used or not, ensuring that the user always captures the best possible night scene. The improved Scene Detection system also comes with new icons displayed on the Live View screen to help users easily identify and toggle between modes.
Improved focus for stills and videos with new Hybrid CMOS AF System
With the new Hybrid CMOS AF system, the EOS 650D is able to engage both contrast AF and phase-difference AF in both Live View and video recording modes to perform full-time continuous autofocusing. With a 31-zone, multi-point AF and a new Subject Tracking AF system, four different methods of AF are possible during Live View.
The Face + Tracking method detects a face, focuses on it and tracks it by switching AF points. Users can also set the target focus area by touching it on the LCD monitor, and it will automatically be tracked by the camera. The FlexiZone Multi AF mode divides the scene into 31 AF zones prioritising the centre and subject in the foreground; while the FlexiZone Single AF and Quick modes allow users to move a focal point with a touch of the LCD screen. The Quick mode functions like the conventional Quick mode by temporarily shutting off Live View to perform focusing via the optical viewfinder, but allows users to select the AF point via touch.
Other new features in the Hybrid CMOS AF System include Continuous (Pre) AF, where the EOS 650D continuously focuses on an object before the shutter button is pressed, and Touch Shutter Release, where the image is captured immediately after the user touches the screen to focus on the subject. Movie Servo AF mode also brings continuous autofocusing during video to the EOS 650D with all EF and EF-S lenses.
Creating videos with convenience
With the EOS 650D, the easy-to-use Video Snapshot editor, a feature previously found only in Canon LEGRIA camcorders, allows users to capture quick video snapshots in 2, 4 or 8-second durations. The in-camera editor can then be used to reorder or delete the clips without the need of a PC.
A new generation of quality EF lenses
Along with the EOS 650D, Canon also launched 2 new lenses, the EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the EF40mm f/2.8 STM.
The EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM features reduced chromatic aberration with the inclusion of one UD lens element and one PMo aspherical lens element. When used with the EOS 650D’s Movie Servo AF, it also offers smooth, speedy and quiet focusing while recording. This is achieved with the development of a new six-group zoom system, and the adoption of a stepping motor and focus mechanism. Along with it, the Dynamic IS system features an expanded correction range, with image stabilization equivalent to 4 stops of light, which proves very useful when shooting subjects on the move.
The EF40mm f/2.8 STM comes in an ultra-compact and lightweight design, with a diameter of 68.2mm, a thickness of 22.8mm and weighing 130g making it the slimmest and lightest EF lens produced. A fast f/2.8 aperture, 7-blade circular aperture and aspherical lens elements let the lens achieve a high level of image quality from centre to corner.
Editor’s Note:
The KISS (Keep It Silent & Simple) or Rebel Series or the 3 digit series of the EOS Range of DSLRs is into its 8th incarnations right now with the EOS650D. Targeted at upgraders and consumers’ market, cameras in this range are exceptionally popular due to its humble asking price, the light weight but solid build and it’s ability to acheive high quality photos makes every EOS in this product line a joy to use. I shall not comment further until I get my hands on a review unit – stay tuned.
-Editor.
* First DSLR with Touchscreen technology as of 8 June 2012
Price & Availability
The EOS 650D will be available from the respectively stated dates at all Canon authorized dealers, in the following kits at the following recommended retail prices:
Body only S$1,149, end-June
Kit I (with EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II) S$1,299, end-June
Kit II (with EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM) S$1,699, mid-July
Pricing and availability of the EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and EF40mm f/2.8 STM lenses will be advised at a later date.
About Canon Singapore Pte Ltd
Canon is a global leader in photographic and digital imaging solutions. Canon Singapore Pte Ltd is the headquarters for South & Southeast Asia driving sales, marketing and service strategies. Besides handling the domestic market, the company leads 18 other countries including subsidiaries in India, Malaysia, Thailand and a representative office in Vietnam. The parent company Canon Inc has a global network of close to 300 companies and employs close to 200,000 people worldwide. It is dedicated to the advancement in technology and innovation and commits about 10% of its total revenue each year to R&D. Canon is consistently one of the top few companies to earn the most number of patents over the last 19 years. As a Fortune Global 500 company, Canon is guided by its kyosei philosophy that focuses on living and working together for the common good. More information is available at www.canon.com.sg.
Canon EF-S Lenses – Are They Any Good? (Featuring Kelly Yuen)
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Featured Photographers, Featured Photography Merchants, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on April 25, 2012
You bought an entry-level or prosumer Canon EOS DSLR. It came with a kit lens in the box. Every other photographer whom you know tells you to forget about that lens and get a “better” lens. Is that lens really that bad? Read on.
In Canon’s EOS World of DSLR cameras & lenses, everyone is familiar with EF lenses which stands for “Electro-Focus”. In 2003, Canon introduced the EF-S line of lenses for exclusive use with APS-C Sensors (Smaller Sensor found in Canon’s entry-level & prosumer DSLRs) The “S” in EF-S stands for “short back focus” (not “Standard” which many had thought so), which means that the rear element of the lens is closer to the image sensor than on regular full frame (35mm DSLR). As of 2012, no EF-S lens was given the ‘L” designation or with built with Diffractive optics and strangely only one EF-S prime lens was built for this line of lenses.
(*Only Canon cameras with the APS-C sized sensor released after 2003 support the EF-S mount.)
So back to the question, are these lenses any good? Well, the professionals and serious hobbyists swear by their L Lenses, but that does not means the non “L” lenses will not get you good photographs. Although 80% of EF-S lenses feels “plasticky” and not really made for harsh conditions, the lens build is consumer friendly and durable. It is also priced very much lower than it’s bigger EF & EF(L) brothers, EF-S is good too – if you know what you are doing. If you do not intend to invest upwards to a professional body or a full frame body in the future, EF-S lenses saves you tons of money to start with. They are cheap to replace too – this is a bonus.
Thanks to Canon Singapore, I was given the opportunity to take a few of the EF-S lenses out for a weekend. (*Except EF-S 17-55m F2.8 IS USM, EF-S 15-85mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM, EF-S 10-22mm F3.5-4.5 USM & EF-S 60mm F2.8 Macro USM) Strangely, all the slightly more expensive EF-S “front-liners” were all out on road show display leaving behind this few lenses that are usually shunned by Professionals and “Professionals”. Well, I just took the lot and left Canon Singapore with NO Plans and NO ideas on how to do this article. I feel strange at first to leave behind my Canon arsenal (Canon EOS 1Ds MarkIII, 1D MarkIV & 5D MarkII with the 14 EF & EF-L-lenses) at home for a weekend, but certainly, I feel relaxed with the lighter gear in my bag and a chance to do a leisure walkabout to take a break from assignments.
So which lenses did Canon Singapore passed me?
From Left to Right: EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS, (Left Top) EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II, EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 IS, EF-S 17-85mm F4-5.6 IS USM & EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS.
I took to the streets. Since it’s a weekend, I met up with one of my photography student, Kelly Yuen. I decided that for this time, I will let Kelly do the shooting with the lot of EF-S lenses and I shall just take my weekend walk with him and let him do whatever he wants with the lenses.
Kelly Yuen (http://www.facebook.com/yuenmxk)
We started walking towards Bugis Village, a haven of some sort for street photography with a complete messed up scene filled with people from all walks of life. Kelly fitted the EF-S18-200mm to his Canon EOS 400D and he started shooting.
Using the wide zoom range to his advantage, he shot expressions of people like the street paddlers below.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/40 F5.6 ISO 400.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/125 F5.6 ISO 800.
And he took shots of people & objects in the vicinity too.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/100 F5.6 ISO 400.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/60 F5.6 ISO 400.
As the sky threatens to pour, we left Bugis & headed towards Bras Basah. Kelly switched the EF-S 18-200 IS with the EF-S 18-135mm IS at this point. We went to the higher floors in search of films when Kelly decided to shoot from top down.
EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/250 F7.1 ISO 800.
(I did a little processing to make this photo more interesting. lol )
After the above shot, Kelly decided to change the EF-S 18-135mm IS to the new EF-S 18-55mm IS II and shot the church across the road.
EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II, 1/200 F7.1 ISO 400.
I half suspect Kelly could be getting tired and decided to switch to this EF-S18-55mm IS II to lighten the camera. After getting what we were looking for, we decided to walk towards town. The Vanguard building caught Kelly’s attention and he took a shot of the building at the junction.
EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II, 1/160 F7.1 ISO 800.
After this, the rain came and we headed home.
The next day, a Sunday, I picked up Kelly and decides to visit his school in the west of Singapore. His school offers a wide range of floral & fauna and I suggested to Kelly that perhaps, we can try doing some macro since some of the EF-S lenses have great magnification capability. When we reached, Kelly fitted the EF-S18-55mm IS II and took the below shots.
EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II, 1/160 F7.1 ISO 800.
EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II, 1/125 F7.1 ISO 400.
Very impressive close up shots I would say. Since it’s still very early, Kelly suggested visiting Chinese Garden as we are just a stone throw away. In just minutes, we are at the garden entrance. A rising sun greeted us.
EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II, 1/800 F7.1 ISO 100.
I saw Kelly changing the lens to the EF-S18-135mm IS as we walked into the garden.
We came to a bridge that caught our attention. Seeing the peaceful lake with a nicely balance reflection of the bridge, Kelly shot the scene.
EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/160 F11 ISO 200.
A group of elderly was practising a fan dance, we got curious and got closer. Eventually, Kelly was right in front of the group and took this shot below.
EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/500 F5.6 ISO 800.
Great timing, great capture. Kelly’s decisiveness in photography always gets him natural shots of people and their activities. We left the group and ventured nearer to the water banks. Here, Kelly took this shot.
EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/500 F7.1 ISO 200.
Nice shot. He then switched the lens to the EF-S18-200mm IS and he took a few more shots below.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/160 F7.1 ISO 200.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/200 F5.6 ISO 400.
We were too engrossed in shooting and did not realised the sky had (again!!) turn dark & gloomy again. As we made our way to the exit, Kelly shot the clouds.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/1600 F5.6 ISO 800.
We managed to get to the car in time and headed towards Kelly’s home which also happened to be at the west and within minutes’ drive from Chinese Garden.
At home, safe from the storm outside, Kelly decides to shoot the little indulgence we were having with the EF-S17-85mm IS USM.
EF-S 17-85mm F4-5.6 IS USM, 1/80 F5.6 ISO640.
Yummy shot isn’t it? After that, we spent our time together and went through all the photos that Kelly took and cleaned all the lenses together. Time really flies, before we knew it, it’s Sunday evening and the storm had stopped. Kelly decided that we should capture the sun set and round the EF-S Lens shoot with a nice “parting shot”. We went to a park nearby his house and Kelly took the EF-S18-200mm IS and shot this.
EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS, 1/200 F5.6 ISO 400.
After that we parted for the weekend.
That night, while sorting out the photos for this article, I realised Kelly did not touched the EF-S 55-250mm at all. So I took it out 2 days later at a photography event and used the EF-S55-250mm IS to shoot the below shots with a Canon EOS 40D.
EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 IS, 180 seconds F22 ISO 100.
EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 IS, 1/50 F6.3 ISO 400.
With the above 2 shots, I have completed my “round” with the EF-S lenses. It’s a pity that I did not have the chance (due to availability) to test out the “higher end” EF-S lenses like the popular EF-S 17-55m F2.8 IS USM, the travel-to-portrait-master EF-S 15-85mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM, the landscape-must-have EF-S 10-22mm F3.5-4.5 USM & famous EF-S 60mm F2.8 Macro USM. But having said that, well, we had fun with what we were given and Kelly produced good photos with the EF-S lenses. I had fun too using these lenses doing long exposure & tried shooting the moon. Looking at this batch of photos, I am convinced that it’s not about what camera or lenses we have or use, it’s the person behind these equipments that makes the difference. So if you are using EF-S Lenses and complaining about the bad photos, look into the mirror, that’s the person to blame.
~
For more details on Canon’s EF-S & EF lenses, visit www.canon.com.sg
—————————————————————————————————–
Quick Information:
EF-S Lens Lineup today & Focal Range Chart. (As of March 2012)
Canon EF-S 10-22mm F3.5-4.5 USM
(16-35.2mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 16-35mm F2.8L II USM.
Canon EF-S 15-85mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM
(24-136mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 24-105mm F4L IS USM.
Canon EF-S 17-55mm F2.8 IS USM
(27.2-88mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 24-70mm F2.8L II USM.
Canon EF-S 17-85mm F4-5.6 IS USM
(27.2-136mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 28-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM.
Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS II
(28.8-88mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)/ 7 versions
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 24-70mm F2.8L II USM.
(* Remember the older EF 28-90mm kit lens that came with film SLRs?)
Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS.
(28.8-216mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 24-105mm F4L IS USM.
Canon EF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 IS.
(28.8-320mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 28-300mm F3.5-5.6L IS USM.
Canon EF-S 55-250mm
(88-400mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 100-400mm F4.5-5.6L IS USM.
Canon EF-S 60mm F2.8 Macro USM
(96mm on Full Frame/ 35mm equivalent)
EF Closest Equivalent : Canon EF 100mm F2.8 Macro USM or
Canon EF 100mm F2.8L IS USM.
New Canon EOS 60Da DSLR Camera For Astronomy Enthusiasts
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on April 4, 2012
Captures The True Colors Of The Cosmos
April 3, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today introduced the EOS 60Da Digital SLR Camera, a long-awaited successor to the EOS 20Da that is optimized for astrophotography. This DSLR caters to astronomers and hobbyists who enjoy capturing the beauty of the night sky by offering a modified infrared filter and a low-noise sensor with heightened hydrogen-alpha sensitivity. These modifications allow the camera to capture magnificent photographs of “red hydrogen emission” nebulae and other cosmic phenomena.
“The EOS 60Da is a testament to the constant desire to meet the needs of every customer, including those in specialized fields,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A., “This new camera enables an accurate depiction of a part of our solar system which is hard to achieve with conventional cameras but should be enjoyed and celebrated.”
The Canon EOS 60Da camera packs a powerful 18-megapixel CMOS sensor (APS-C) that produces sharp and high-contrast images of astronomical objects, a major enhancement over the EOS 20Da model’s 8.2-megapixel sensor. The improved infrared-blocking filter is a modification suited specifically toward astronomy enthusiasts to achieve a hydrogen-alpha light sensitivity that is approximately three times higher than that of a normal Canon DSLR camera. This produces a 20-percent higher transmittance of Hydrogen Alpha line, or H α wavelength, allowing astronomers to capture crisp, clear images of reddish, diffuse nebulae.
Crisp images of the stars and planets can be viewed on the EOS 60Da’s improved 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen with 1,040,000 dots for detailed focusing. The flip-out Vari-angle screen allows photographers to adjust the screen for easy viewing without straining even while the camera is mounted to a telescope via a third-party T-ring adapter. Optimized for stargazing with friends or in an educational setting, astronomy enthusiasts can connect the camera to a TV with the provided AVC-DC400ST Stereo AV Video Cable and display the night sky on a TV monitor using the camera’s Live View mode. Moreover, the EOS 60Da’s Live View mode is equipped with a Silent Shooting feature that eliminates shutter-induced vibration for maximum camera stability when the camera is mounted to a telescope or super-telephoto EF lens.
Enhanced noise reduction on the EOS 60Da sensor offers photographers the ability to experiment with the wide array of ISO settings and increased ISO speeds up to 6400 expandable to 12800. Other features include an intelligent nine-point autofocus system, full manual controls, and RAW, JPEG, and RAW+JPEG image recording capabilities.
The EOS 60Da helps capture the wonders of the night sky with its use of Canon’s award-winning EF and EF-S lenses along with other EOS accessories. Additionally, the EOS 60Da is packaged with Canon’s RA-E3 Remote Controller Adapter, providing the ability to connect a Canon Timer Remote Control such as the TC-80N3 (optional accessory). The TC-80N3 is ideal for controlling time exposures longer than 30 seconds as well as capturing a series of consecutive time exposures that can be composited during post-processing for improved image quality. This is especially useful when the camera body is connected to a telescopei or an EF super telephoto lens.
Canon has also included an AC adapter kit with the EOS 60Da, allowing the camera to be powered through an AC wall outlet or a battery-powered inverter, ideal for long exposure image or video capture at home or in the field.
As a specialized product, the EOS 60Da is only available to order from select authorized dealers. The estimated retail price is $1,499.00 and it is expected to be available this month.
*Not Available to Singapore.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $45.6 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2011† and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2012. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
i Independent third-party accessories are required to connect the EOS 60Da DSLR or any Canon EOS camera to a telescope.
Through Green Lenses: A Semakau Mini-documentary/Film Making Contest 2012
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Brand: Others (Cosina, Carl Zeiss, Leica, Mamiya, Samyang, Vivitar, Zenitar,etc), Photography Contests on March 27, 2012
The National Environment Agency and The Nature Society (Singapore), with the support of National Geographic Channel, have organized a mini-documentary/film making contest titled Through Green Lenses: A Semakau Mini-documentary/Film Making Contest 2012.
The contest aims to promote awareness of the rich biodiversity on Semakau (Singapore’s unique offshore landfill), and gives budding documentary and film makers the rare chance to capture Semakau’s natural beauty and win great prizes! Winners will also get to meet National Geographic Explorer Zeb Hogan, host of highly-rated documentary ‘Monster Fish’.
Through Green Lenses is a mini-documentary/ film making contest where you have the chance to capture and showcase the unique co-existence of waste management and rich biodiversity on Semakau. Semakau is a unique offshore landfill located south of the main island of Singapore, and also co-functions as a recreational destination for nature lovers. It boasts of scenic landscaping and vibrant biodiversity, making it the perfect stage for you to show your appreciation of nature and exhibit your documentary/ film making talents.
Here’s your chance to go to Semakau to film its interesting flora and fauna and win attractive prizes.
1st prize: Legria HF R 26 and cash worth $1500
2nd prize: Legria FS 46 and cash worth $1000
3rd prize: Legria FS 406 worth $500
Theme: Unique Co-existence of Waste Management and Rich Biodiversity
Duration of mini-documentary/film: 3 minutes or less
Important dates:
22 Apr 2012 (2:00pm – 3:30pm)
Video skills workshop by professional film maker cum briefing session at Environment Building auditorium (along Scotts Road)
28 Apr 2012
Filming on Semakau
- You will have to provide your own video cameras.
- Lunch and afternoon tea will be provided.
- You will be loaned binoculars to enhance your nature viewing experience.
To register, download Entry Form.
Participation details:
- This competition is open to all Singaporeans and PRs above 12 years old.
- Participants can register either individually or in pairs.
- A registration fee of $10 per team applies.
- Registration is restricted to the first 45 teams that submit their Entry Forms and full registration fees to us.
- For enquiries, please email teryang@nss.org.sg.
Canon EOS system celebrates 25th anniversary
Posted by Singapore Media Owners in Brand: Canon, Photography Articles & Videos, Uncategorized on March 16, 2012
TOKYO, March 2012—Canon Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan Inc. announced today the celebration this month of the 25th anniversary of the launch of Canon’s EOS system, which includes the EOS series of single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras and a diverse range of accessories for the system beginning with the company’s rich lineup of interchangeable EF lenses.
Canon’s EOS system made its debut in March 1987 with the launch of the EOS 650 SLR camera and three interchangeable EF lenses, including the EF35-70mm f/3.5-4.5. This month, the system will commemorate its long, rich history with the celebration of its 25th anniversary.
Standing for “Electro Optical System” while also carrying the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn, the EOS series saw first light in 1987 as the world’s first fully electronic mount system, representing a new generation of AF SLR cameras. During the film-camera era, EOS SLR cameras garnered high acclaim from a wide range of users for their innovative technologies and designs focused on Canon’s key concepts of high speed and ease of use. During this period, the company launched the top-of-the-line professional-model EOS-1 in 1989 and, with the introduction of the compact, lightweight EOS Kiss (EOS Rebel XS and EOS 500 in other regions) in 1993, succeeded in expanding its user base.
Following the introduction of the EOS D30 in 2000, when the popularization of digital SLR cameras was in full swing, Canon developed such advanced technologies as its proprietary CMOS sensors and high-performance DIGIC digital image processors in an effort to offer products that fulfilled the company’s new key concepts of high speed, ease of use and high image quality.
With the flagship EOS-1D X at the apex and the newly introduced EOS 5D Mark III, boasting excellent image quality and video functionality, Canon’s rich digital SLR camera lineup serves the needs of all levels of users, from professional photographers to entry-level photo enthusiasts.
Additionally, Canon’s interchangeable EF lens series, introduced together with the EOS SLR camera system, has come to lead the industry. With Canon’s optical technologies at its core, EF lenses incorporate such innovative technologies as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilization (IS), Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) anti-reflection technology, and multi-layered diffractive optical (DO) elements. The current EF-lens lineup comprises over 60 models, making possible a diverse range of imaging-expression possibilities.
Furthermore, with the recent launch of the Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography products, Canon’s EOS system now supports motion picture production and other high-end video capture applications.
Canon will continue to refine it diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable cameras and lenses that cater to the varying needs of users while contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.
