After may rumors and speculation circulated around the virtual photography water coolers, FujiFilm announced at 9:00 a.m. that they have released a new medium format camera.
Already on the market is their GFXS, and released today is the GFXR. Both are a staggering 51.4 million pixels.
We wanted to look at the notable differences and the biggest thing we noted was the price. Coming in at $4,499.95, she is less expensive than her sister the
GFXS who is priced currently at B&H for $5,849.00
Additionally, the GFXR also has Bluetooth compatibility, so that the photographer can pair with their smartphone or tablet to transfer images. This is different from the wifi capabilities of the other FujiFilm models.
Other notable differences is a lighter and thinner body.
If you’re in the market for a medium format camera, this just might be the option for you!
In just 5 days the photographic world will flock to Cologne, Germany for Photokina 2018. Having attended Photokina in the past, we can tell you that it is an overwhelming experience of photographic fuel to fill your mind.
This has been a huge year in the industry where the “traditional” camera brands, Nikon and Canon entered into the mirrorless market. In addition, mirrorless veteran, FujiFilm just announced their new flagship piece the X-T3.
We are anticipating and watching to see if Fujifilm will release a speculated new GFX camera that is more compact and less expensive than the GFX50S.
Rumor also has it that Panasonic could break away from their Micro Four Thirds systems and enter into the full frame market with a brand new camera. Exciting news for Panasonic lovers!
The most surprising rumor that we heard was that Zeiss may announce a mirrorless system. We would be shocked to see them enter the camera body market, but with their name, why not. Anything could happen… They may be releasing a 100mm 1.4 lens and a 40mm f/2 CF FE lens.
We are however anxious to see the surprises that come from the show and are released to the public.
Historically the show has been held in the fall every other year, but starting in May of 2019 the show will be held annually for four days.
Until the show starts we will all sit and anticipate the fun new gear that’s coming our way!
New X-T3 introduces all-new back-illuminated 26MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 processor; World’s first APS-C mirrorless camera capable of 4K/60P 10bit recording
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Valhalla, N.Y., September 6, 2018 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today unveiled the new FUJIFILM X-T3, launching the X Series mirrorless digital cameras into its fourth generation. Introducing an all-new back-illuminated 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 processor, the X-T3 delivers superb image quality, dramatically improved AF performance, exceptional tracking performance of fast-moving subjects and blackout-free burst shooting. The X-T3 is also the first APS-C mirrorless camera capable of 4K/60P 10bit recording to meet the needs of professional videographers.
“We are proud to introduce the new X-T3 to market as not only the latest addition to our X Series mirrorless lineup of digital cameras, but as an introduction to fourth generation technologies that feature substantial performance enhancements over previous models, delivering high AF performance, superb color reproduction and outstanding image quality to  photographers and videographers alike,“ said Yuji Igarashi, General Manager of the Electronic Imaging Division and Optical Devices Division of FUJIFILM North America Corporation.
Fourth Generation X-Trans CMOS 4 and X-Processor 4 for Improved Resolving Performance, Color Reproducibility, and Faster Processing
Featuring the latest, fourth generation 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 APS-C sensor with no optical low-pass filter, the FUJIFILM X-T3 boasts the highest performance in the history of X Series. Utilizing the unique color filter array of X-Trans CMOS sensors to control moiré and false colors, it is the first APS-C back-illuminated structure sensor with phase detection pixels distributed across the surface to improve image resolution without compromising signal to noise ratio. With the X-T3, ISO160 is now part of the standard ISO range, previously this was only available as extended ISO, perfect for use in bright scenes or when trying to shoot wide open with a fast, large-aperture lens.
The new X-T3 debuts the X-Processor 4 processor which features a Quad Core CPU to achieve a processing speed 3 times faster than current X Series models. Providing incredible AF accuracy and speed, the processor is also the first to deliver 4K/60P 10bit output, fulfilling the performance needs of professional videographers. It is also capable of implementing complex image processing tasks in an instant, such as the unique FUJIFILM Color Chrome Effect or Monochrome Adjustment function.
The new FUJIFILM X-T3 features the Color Chrome Effect, previously limited to the FUJIFILM GFX 50S medium format mirrorless digital camera, which produces enhanced color gradation in highly saturated colors such as vivid-colored flowers with shadows, a notoriously difficult subject to reproduce. With the high-speed processing power of the X-Processor 4, this effect can be applied not only to a single shot but also during continuous shooting.
Exceptional Autofocus and Viewfinder Performance
With the X-T3, AF performance receives a dramatic improvement from previous X Series products, increasing the phase detection AF area to the entire frame with 2.16M phase detection pixels providing fast and accurate phase detection AF. The low-light phase detection AF limit has been increased over the X-T2 by 2 stops, from -1EV to -3EV, making it possible for photographers to accurately focus in low light conditions, perfect for night photography.
Furthermore, the X-Processor 4’s high processing speed and excellent phase detection algorithm means the camera refocuses (AF) and meters (AE) 1.5 times more frequently than the X-T2, enabling accurate autofocus even when photographing subjects that change speed and move erratically across the frame, such as sports photography. The performance of Face Detection AF has also been improved. Eye Detection AF now supports the AF-C mode to maintain accurate focus tracking. Face and Eye Detection AF is also available during video recording to achieve smooth filming of subjects.
The X-T3 offers photographers incredible viewfinder performance, with the ability to now track a moving subject in the 3.69-million-dot high resolution EVF with a magnification ratio of 0.75x. Further the X-T3, allows continuous shooting of 11fps with the mechanical shutter without the optional vertical battery grip, enabling fast continuous shooting while maintaining a low weight.
Additional enhancements to the X-T3 include a display time lag of just 0.005 seconds and a EVF refresh rate of 100fps for smooth display of moving subject or when panning the camera. A new sports finder mode for enhanced capture of moving subjects is especially useful for sports and wildlife photography, and a new pre-shoot function, which allows photographers to start shooting as soon as the shutter button is half-pressed to ensure the moment is never missed.
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Enhanced Video Performance to Meet the Needs of Professionals
The X-T3 is the first mirrorless digital camera capable of internal SD card 4K/60P 4:2:0 10bit recording and the first mirrorless digital camera with APS-C or larger sensor that is capable of 4K/60P 4:2:2 10bit HDMI output. Supported video formats include the widely-used H.264/MPEG-4 AVC as well as H.265/HEVC for greater data compression, which enables internal recording of 4K/60P 4:2:0 10bit at200Mbps bitrate as well as simultaneous HDMI output. The X-T3 sensor’s read speed has been increased from that of the X-T2, enabling17msec reading in 4K/60P video, reducing rolling shutter distortion for smooth recording of fast-moving subjects. 10bit color depth for video boosts the amount of color information 64 times compared to 8bit, and is combined with approximately. 12 stops dynamic range to enable capture of subjects with rich gradation of color.
Also introduced in the X-T3 is a new noise reduction algorithm and 4K inter-frame noise reduction, the minimum sensitivity for shooting F-Log footage has been lowered from ISO800 to ISO640, further enhancing the camera’s performance to meet the needs of videographers.
Designed for Ultimate Operability
Inheriting the popular design of the X-T2, dials are positioned on the top panel, and the camera features a central viewfinder and excellent grip design for stability and comfort. The X-T3 also incorporates enhancements to its design, including a lockable EVF diopter adjustment to prevent unintended adjustments while carrying the camera, and a touchscreen panel with higher contrast, wider viewing angles and better functionality for more intuitive operation. In addition, the X-T3 offers larger top-panel dials than the X-T2, and larger rear-panel buttons and a more pronounced press function of the front and rear command dials, as found on the X-H1.
X-T3 Vertical Battery Grip
The Vertical Battery Grip VG-XT3 is designed to be dust-resistant, weather-resistant and capable of operating at temperatures as low as -10°C/14° F, and holds two additional batteries to increase the maximum number of shots to 1,100 (in normal mode). The grip features a shutter release button, focus lever, AE-L button, AF-L button, front and rear command dials, Q button and Fn button to provide the same level of excellent operability with vertical shooting as with horizontal.
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X-T3 Metal Hand Grip
The MHG-XT3 Metal Hand Grip makes it substantially more comfortable to hold the camera when it is mounted with a large-aperture lens, in order to reduce camera shake. The battery or SD cards can be replaced without having to remove the hand grip, and the base can be used as a quick release shoe when using a dovetail mount on a tripod.
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FUJIFILM X-T3 Key Features:
o   Capable of 4K/60P and 10bit output
o   Features 4 CPU units
o   Startup time of 0.3 seconds
o   Shutter time lag of 0.045 seconds
o   Viewfinder magnification of 0.75x
o   Wide viewing angle (diagonal 38º and horizontal 30º)
o   Display time lag of just 0.005 seconds, refresh rate of approx. 100fps
o   Approx. 30fps [Only electronic shutter, 1.25 x Crop ] (JPEG： 60 frames Lossless compression RAW： 35 frames Uncompressed RAW： 33 frames)
o   Approx. 11fps (JPEG: 145 frames Lossless compression RAW: 42 frames Uncompressed RAW: 36 frames)
o   Approx. 5.7fps (JPEG: endless Lossless Compression RAW: 62 frames Uncompressed RAW: 43 frames)
o   Pre-shot: Approx. 30fps [Only electronic shutter, 1.25 x Crop ] (max. 20 frames while half press, max. 20 frames after full press, total max. 40 frames)
o   File format
o   Movie compression
o   File size/ Frame Rate/ Recording Time
o   3.0 inch, aspect ratio 3:2, approx. 1.04 million dots touch screen color LCD monitor (approx. 100% coverage)
o   PROVIA/Standard, Velvia/Vivid, ASTIA/Soft, Classic Chrome, PRO Neg. Hi, PRO Neg. Std, Black & White, Black & White +Ye Filter, Black & White +R Filter, Black & White +G Filter, Sepia, ACROS, ACROS +Ye Filter, ACROS+R Filter, ACROS+G Filter, ETERNA/Cinema), B & W Adjustment: -9~+9
o   Li-ion battery NP-W126S
o   Battery charger BC-W126S
o   Shoe-mount flash unit EF-X8
o   Shoulder strap
o   Body cap
o   Strap clip
o   Protective cover
o   Clip attaching tool
o   Hot shoe cover
o   Vertical battery grip connector cover
o   Connector cover (detachable)
o   Sync terminal cover
o   Cable protector
o   Owner’s manual
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FUJIFILM X-T3 Accessories:
o   Weather-resistant design fits two additional batteries
o   Enhanced ergonomic design for horizontal shooting
o   Genuine premium leather
o   Sync terminal cover
o   Hot shoe cover
o   Connector cover
o   Vertical battery grip connector cover, black
o   Vertical battery grip connector cover, silver
Availability and Pricing
The X-T3 will be available on September 20, 2018 in the U.S. and Canada. The X-T3 Body will be available in black and silver for USD $1,499.95 and CAD $1,899.99. The X-T3 Body with XF18-55mm Lens Kit will be available in black and silver for USD $1,899.95 and CAD $2,399.99.
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Intelligent camera assistant wirelessly controls DSLR and Mirrorless cameras from a smartphone, uses machine learning to find optimal settings in any conditions.
BOZEMAN, MT—May 23, 2017— Arsenal, a camera technology startup, today announced the world’s first intelligent camera assistant powered by machine learning. The new hardware and software product, launched on Kickstarter, enables photographers to wirelessly control their cameras and quickly perform advanced techniques.
Arsenal’s artificial intelligence (AI) is powered by a series of machine learning algorithms trained on a database of millions of photographs and their metadata. By comparing new scenes with its database and adjusting based on environmental variables, Arsenal enables photographers to get the perfect shot every time.
“Today’s cameras have amazing optics, but they do very little to actually help you take a good photo,†said Ryan Stout, Arsenal’s founder and CEO. “You can go spend a thousand dollars and out-of-the-box it will take worse photos than your smartphone. Arsenal changes that by making your existing camera smarter.â€
Arsenal will serve the growing market for Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) and Mirrorless cameras. Its initial product will be compatible with dozens of popular models made by Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fuji.
In addition to its AI capabilities, Arsenal gives photographers control over their camera from up to 100 feet away. Users can adjust settings, watch a live preview, and trigger the shutter remotely from their smartphone.
Arsenal also simplifies several advanced photographic techniques. Arsenal will perform photo stacking (the process of combining multiple photos for more dynamic range or sharper focus), long exposures, and timelapses. In each case, the resulting RAW files are saved directly on the camera.
The Arsenal app also includes powerful photo review capabilities. Users can wirelessly browse the photos on their camera’s card and view individual RAW files in full resolution. Photos can then be shared directly to Instagram, Snap, and Facebook.
The Arsenal system, which is currently being tested in the field, consists of two parts: an ultralight hardware device that sits on top of a user’s camera, and an iOS/Android mobile app. The app wirelessly communicates with the device via wifi or Bluetooth, which in turn controls the camera via a micro-USB connection.
Melville, NY – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the development of a next-generation full-frame (Nikon FX-format) mirrorless camera and NIKKOR lenses featuring a new mount.
Check out the promo video 👆ðŸ»
The new mirrorless camera and NIKKOR lenses that are in development will enable a new dimension in optical performance with the adoption of a new mount. The system is the result of Nikon’s unsurpassed optical and manufacturing capabilities gained through more than a century of imaging expertise. Proven reliability and trusted performance are core traits of Nikon Digital-SLRs, and decades of feedback from professional creators around the world has further contributed to the development of this system.
Through the development of this new mirrorless camera, Nikon reaffirms our commitment to providing photographers with the ability to capture images that are richer and more vivid than ever before.
Additionally, an F-Mount adapter is being developed that will enable the use of a wide variety of F-Mount NIKKOR lenses with the new camera.
Nikon will continue to lead imaging innovation with the launch of the new mirrorless camera and the continued development of Nikon Digital-SLR cameras as well as the impressive NIKKOR lens lineup. Soon, Nikon users will have two industry-leading camera systems to choose from, giving consumers the choice to enjoy the unique values that each system offers.
Content relating to this product is available for viewing at the following URL: http://www.nikonusa.com/mirrorlessiscoming. Please stay tuned for more information.
Details, including the release date and suggested retail prices, will be shared at a later date.
Y’all! Nik is back!!  DxO, the company that purchased Nik from Google in 2017 announced just a couple of days ago that they have re-released the beloved software.
The best news of all, is that the entire suite is now fully compatible with Lightroom and Photoshop.
The Nik Collection 2018 by DxO is now fully functional and compatible with all 64-bit Windows and Mac platforms, as well as with Adobe Lightroom Classic CC, Photoshop CC 2018, and Photoshop Elements 2017/2018. In addition, DxO now provides support in four languages on its website (http://nikcollection.dxo.com/), which will soon include exclusive tutorials. The software suite update, including the seven plugins, is now available in 13 languages, and includes a free 30-day trial period.
The Nik Collection 2018 by DxO is available for download on the DxO website (http://shop.dxo.com/us/photo-software/dxo-nikcollection) for $49.99 /
Sony has unveiled an OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) display with a resolution of 5.6 million dots and a record 6.3 micrometer dot pitch. That’s a significant boost over the 3.69 million dot EVF on its flagship A9 and A7R III mirrorless cameras. It also boasts a refresh rate of 240 fps, double that of the previous model. Once it starts shipping later this year, you can expect to see mirrorless cameras with much sharper and more responsive displays, further closing the gap on DSLRs with optical viewfinders.
The displays, which have 1.6 times the resolution of the last model, will be used on “high-end cameras that demand extremely high image quality,” Sony said. You can also expect to see them on augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) headsets. The high refresh rate should be particularly helpful when shooting 4K video on mirrorless cameras, and will also reduce motion sickness and image artifacts in VR.
Sony-manufactured EVFs are used on most other mirrorless cameras, including models from Fujifilm, Panasonic and others. So, the arrival of a crucial new component clearly designed for flagship cameras will no doubt set off speculation as to which models will get it and when.
Sony’s A7S III video-centric camera is due to arrive soon, and given the ship date, reinforces rumors that it will first be shown at Photokina in Cologne, Germany this September. Nikon has also said that it’s making a full-frame mirrorless camera that could use the EVF, and it could also be unveiled at the same show. Other models from Fujifilm and Leica might come out around the same time, so it could be one of the most interesting Photokina shows in years.
One of the best original iPhone photography apps is about to make a comeback.
Camera+ was one of our favorite camera apps in the early days of the iPhone thanks to its streamlined UI and unique features. Now the developers behind have given it a complete overhaul in time for the summer.
Camera+2 is a complete rewrite of the original, making it better, faster and stronger than ever to take advantage of the iPhone X’s new camera features. Best of all, the developers are doing away with in-app purchases. Now you get everything you need to make your photos look amazing for just $1.99.
So, what’s changed from the original? Pretty much everything. All of the camera features like Slow Shutter and manual shooting controls are still there. You get support for Portrait Mode now and can choose between using the wide or tele lens if your iPhone has a dual-lens camera.
On the editing side everything has been streamlined. Camera+2 integrates your Photo Library with the Lightbox now so that you don’t have to import and export photos you want to edit. They’ve also added RAW photo capture and editing so you can push each pixel to the limit.
Camera+2 is a universal app too so you get all the same features on your iPad too. It is set to launch on May 29th at $2.99, but you can pre-order it now for just $1.99 on the App Store.
Via:Â Cult of Mac
Fujifilm has unveiled the X-T100, an interesting mirrorless camera that’s quite similar, spec-wise, to the entry-level X-A5, but looks more like the X-T20. It’s one of the few inexpensive mirrorless cameras out there with an electronic viewfinder, great for serious photographers on a budget. Unfortunately, it’s not as great for video, as Fujifilm crippled the 4K by limiting it to 15 fps.
While X-T100 looks much like the X-T20, it lacks the front dial and a few other features from that model. Still, you get four dials for tactile control, along with the classic good looks and compact body you’d expect from Fujifilm (it comes in dark silver, black and a surprisingly nice-looking champagne gold, above). Unlike the X-A5, it has a 3-way articulating screen that you can flip around for selfies or vlogging.
Other specs, which Fujifilm accidentally leaked all over the internet last week, look pretty nice. It’s got a 24.2-megapixel CMOS (not X-Trans) APS-C sensor that provides a wide field of view and works with Fujifilm’s lovely X mount Fujinon lenses. You also get 6 fps shooting for up to 26 frames, double the capacity of the X-A5. Most importantly, it comes with a 2.36-million dot resolution OLED EVF, a very nice feature to have on a relatively inexpensive camera.
While you do get 1080p video at 60 fps, 4K (3,840 x 2,160) is limited to 15 fps, making me wonder why Fujifilm even bothered. You could use it to capture video at high speed to use for photos (à la Panasonic’s 4K Photofeature), or speed up the video to get an old-timey early-1900s look, I suppose.
If you’re okay without 4K video, the X-T100 is a solid mirrorless camera for the price, slotting in between the X-A5 and X-trans sensor-equipped X-T20. It will arrive in the US and Europe on June 18th for $600, or $700 with a Fujinon XC15-45 F/3.5-5.6 kit lens. If you decide to order one, just don’t confuse it with Fujifilm’s very similarly-named X-100T compact APS-C model.
Via: Steve Dent @ EngadgetÂ
Y’all. I’m not kidding. This never happens. The coveted, and very pricy American owned tripod company is hosting a huge moving sale. They are relocating from California to Utah and as a result consumers are the winners in this case! They are offering 30% off some products. Apparently because they want less to move! For the Rolls Royce of tripods to go on sale is a big deal. If you were on the fence about any of the products that they have listed for sale, now is the time!
FROM RRS:
We are excited to announce the start of The Big Move Sale. From now until June 20, 2018 11:59PM PST, select gear is available at 30% off with promo code BIGMOVESALE30. Visit The Big Move Salesection for a complete list of sale items.Â
Note: As of June 11, 2018 – Please send all returns and repairs to the new RRS office at 720 S 850 East Lehi, Utah 84043, USA.
Check out the sales page here:Â RRS BIG MOVE SALE
Los Angeles, CA—Fans of the iconic DJI Phantom drone can look forward to the release of its latest variation—the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 (P4P V2.0).
Packed with the features of the P4P, the P4P V2.0 uses DJI’s OcuSync transmission technology, which was developed for high-resolution, low-latency digital video transmission. Moreover, the technology improves the flight experience by reducing propeller noise by up to 60%.
In addition, drone pilots who utilize the first-person-view experience for work or for play can now directly connect the P4P V2.0 with their DJI Goggles for a more immersive FPV flying experience.
Specs state the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 drone provides 30 minutes of flight time with a nearly 4.5-mile transmission range. In addition, the drone features a five-directional obstacle sensing system. The drone also retains the line’s iconic white airframe. Moreover, its 1-inch CMOS image sensor provides 4K 60p video recording capabilities.
As a result, the P4P V2.0 is being marketed for “prosumers and professionals who need a reliable and powerful imaging solution that can cater to diverse filming needs and mapping operations.â€
In addition, DJI is also offering the P4P V2.0 drone as a Phantom 4 Pro+ V2.0 version. The Pro+ is bundled with a 5.5-inch, 1080p resolution screen built into the remote controller. The screen is targeted at operators who fly outdoors under direct sunlight.
The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is now available for purchase. It has suggested retail price of $1,499. Bundled with the aircraft is a battery, a remote controller, four pairs of propellers, a battery charger, a power cable, a gimbal clamp, a Micro USB cable, a microSD memory card and also a carrying case.
The Phantom 4 Pro+ V2.0 has a retail price of $1,799. It includes all the P4P V2.0 drone accessories, along with a 5.5-inch monitor built into the remote controller.
VIA:Â Digital Imaging Reporter
We’re told that Canon will finally unveil their new 70-200mm lenses with an early June announcement. Yes, that’s plural.
We can 100% confirm that one of the new lenses will be an EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II.
We can also 95% confirm that the second lens will be a EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III. All of the tips we’ve seen point to this lens coming, but we haven’t actually seen the “f/2.8L IS III†in writing.
We do not know pricing or when these new 70-200mm lenses will begin shipping.
Please keep in mind that lens announcement dates can change, even at the last minute.
VIA:Â Canon Rumors
The Nikon D750 is one of our favorite cameras at Fstoppers for good reason: it’s an excellent all-around full frame camera that will excel in almost any situation you put it in. Here are its specs:
Right now, B&H is offering the D750Â for $500 off, and you’ll also get a battery grip, extra battery, memory card, and shoulder bag for free. If you’re looking to get into full frame without breaking the bank, this is a great way to do it and get some extra accessories in the process.
Credit: Alex Cooke for Fstoppers
A Nikon representative confirmed that their new mirrorless system will be coming by spring of 2019 (video here). We’ll assume this new mirrorless system is going to be full frame, and perhaps an APS-C little brother as well.
So what about Canon?
We know there are various bodies in testing and at various stages of development, though we’re pretty confident that a hard date for an announcement has not been determined as of yet. It’s speculated around the web that both Nikon and Canon will make some kind of announcement for a full frame mirrorless camera at Photokina in September.
If Nikon is saying their new system will be coming some time in early 2019, I don’t think they’ll be doing an official product announcement at Photokina, and it’s more likely we’ll get some kind of a “development†announcement. I think there’s a high probability Canon does a similar thing at Photokina. I will say however, we’e never been told about a “development announcement†before they happen. People don’t like announcements and then having to wait 6 months to buy the product, we’ve seen that in the past with Canon and it’s not good for anyone.
I don’t think it matters to Canon or Nikon who is first out of the gate with a full frame mirrorless camera. Both companies obviously have a very loyal customer base and both will be going right at Sony. If both companies make comparable products to Sony feature-set wise, they’ll both easily take a large chunk full frame mirrorless marketshare rather quickly. The one caveat to that will be how F and EF mount lenses fit into the picture.
Lots more to come…
Originally Posted: Canon Rumors
L.L. Bean’s outdoor gear — including its signature Bean Boots prized by campers is no longer guaranteed for life.
In a letter to customers Friday morning, the company said it has updated its return policy to give customers one year to return purchases, with a receipt. The previous lifetime guarantee, which enabled customers to return products years — or even decades — after purchase, has long been a selling point for the company.
“Increasingly, a small, but growing number of customers has been interpreting our guarantee well beyond its original intent. Some view it as a lifetime product replacement program, expecting refunds for heavily worn products used over many years. Others seek refunds for products that have been purchased through third parties, such as at yard sales.”‘
L.L. Bean says the policy update will affect only a “small percentage” of returns and pledged to keep its mission of selling “high quality products that inspire and enable people to enjoy the outdoors.” The company says if a product is defective, it will “work with our customers to reach a fair solution” even after a year.
The return policy on the site now reads:
“If you are not 100% satisfied with one of our products, you may return it within one year of purchase for a refund. After one year, we will consider any items for return that are defective due to materials or craftsmanship.”
A Business Insider reporter put the policy to the test last year by returning four-year-old shoes with broken stitching. He recounts that the cashier immediately accepted the return and asked for no proof about when he purchased the shoes. “Two days later, the brand-new shoes were waiting on my doorstep,” Business Insider writes.
At the time, an L.L. Bean spokesperson told the site that the return policy was taken advantage of less than might be expected.
“Our guarantee is not a liability, but rather a customer service asset — an unacknowledged agreement between us and the customer, that always puts the customer first and relies on the goodwill of our customers to honor the original intent of the guarantee,” spokesperson Mac McKeever told Business Insider.
The company traces its origins to 1911, when a Maine outdoorsman developed a hunting shoe with leather uppers and rubber bottoms. Its rugged products were designed with hunting and fishing in mind.
In recent years the company has taken steps to appeal to a hipper, less outdoorsy clientele. As Maine Public Radio reported, L.L. Bean has been “looking to really create a new updated fit and style.”
Post Credit:Â NPR: L.L. Bean Scraps Legendary Lifetime Return Policy
A couple years ago I attended Photo Plus Expo in New York City and had the chance to meet Jim Malcolm from Human Eyes, a company that is in the business of augmented reality. At that time in 2016 our conversation was casual as we discussed the technology and the potential future of AR in the photography industry.
Vuze+ VR Camera and Kit by Human Eyes
In 2017 at the same trade show, I saw him again and his excitement was visible. He said “this is going to be the year”.  A few months later, he emailed me again asking if I would be at the Consumer Electronic Show, because AR is starting to take off.
Since that email, the industry blogs I follow have been blowing up with news and chatter about Augmented Realty and Virtual Reality.
Overall spending on AR/VR is forecasted by the IDC to reach $17.8 billion globally in 2018. This is an increase of nearly 95% over the 2017 numbers. The International Data Corporation is predicting that spending in America alone, will reach $6.4 billion.
So how does this affect us as nature photographers and what do we need to be looking for? At the heart of what we do, we are storytellers. AR/VR will become a new tool that we’ll be able to utilize to tell the story of our adventures, our photographs and our journey. As the industry is looking more towards influencer marketing and grassroots to tell their own story, AR/VR will be the next big wave for those who want to build their platform and have brand sponsorship.
Be prepared for a hefty price tag. The Vuze + (created and distributed by Human Eyes) runs at $1,1,95 for the bundle. Before you run out and grab your 360 degree camera and VR/AR headset, it’s going to become important to learn about the production of this new technology. As Mr. Malcolm advised me, there’s a right way to record VR and a wrong way. However, the possibilities are endless for those who take the first steps into this exciting new territory.
Nikon D850
It is perhaps no surprise to any of us that the top spot for sales with full frame cameras went to Nikon and their newly released D850. When they rolled out the D810 in July of 2014 the industry was filled with talk about the impressive ability to capture a dynamic range that had previously been unattainable, with the only hope of achieving such range with the medium format cameras.
With the newly released D850, sales were backlogged and still being filled. At the time of this blog post, Amazon is just now shipping orders placed before Christmas.
Read the press release from Nikon below:
MELVILLE, NY – Imaging leader Nikon attained the #1 position for both market share and revenue for December 2017, in the full frame digital camera with interchangeable lens (DCIL) category in the U.S.1The overwhelming success of the powerful new Nikon D850 DSLR as well as the acclaimed D750 DSLR helped contribute to the brand’s strong growth within the full frame camera segment for December 2017. According to The NPD Group, Nikon achieved double-digit unit and dollar sales growth within the full frame camera segment in December 2017 vs. December 2016.2This market category comprises all full frame digital cameras with interchangeable lenses (DCIL), including DSLR and mirrorless cameras. December is a significant month for sales because of the large volume of units sold during the holidays; industry-wide, DCIL full frame unit sales for the month of December 2017 were almost equal to unit sales from January through March of 2017, according to The NPD Group.3
“Nikon has returned to an emphasis on high-end products for advanced and professional users. These users appreciate Nikon’s full frame offerings because of their amazing image quality, reliability, low-light capability and high-speed performance,†said Bo Kajiwara, President and CEO, Nikon Inc. “Nikon is an innovative, diversified company with a clear, long-term strategy to thrive into 2018 and beyond.â€
Since the beginning of 2017, the camera industry has seen strong growth in the full frame segment, with consumers gravitating toward Nikon’s innovative offerings for advanced and professional photographers. The month of December alone saw an overall increase of 69% in units and 59% in dollars compared to the same period in 2016.2 Nikon specifically experienced an 81% increase in units, and 88% growth in dollars for this segment.2
For the month of December, the top two selling DSLR cameras in this segment were the Nikon D750 and the Nikon D850.4Â There has been exceptional demand for the extremely versatile, highly acclaimed D850, which is the ultimate combination of speed and resolution. This 45.7-megapixel full frame DSLR is a tool for serious photographers with robust construction, unparalleled imaged quality and proven reliability. Both the D850 and the D750 have won a myriad of industry and consumer accolades, and both are perfectly complemented by the vast NIKKOR lens system, which offers the best in optical excellence.
“Premium segments are leading the imaging market, as consumer demand for features like full frame are on the rise,†said Ben Arnold, executive director, industry analyst for The NPD Group.
Kajiwara also added, “We want to sincerely thank our customers and our fans for making this achievement possible.â€
Portland, OR - Lensbaby—makers ofÂ
Capture minute details with creative flare while making unique close-up shots of botanicals, tiny life forms, delicious dishes and more with this set of +1, +2 and +4 close-up filters.Â
This offering comes on the heels of the 46mm Filter Kit (which includes an 8-point Star Filter, 3-stop Neutral Density Filter and Circular Polarizer) that debuted in October 2017.
Lensbaby is broadening their product line to ensure photographers have the tools they need to keep pushing the limits of their creative freedom.
“Photographers see the world differently through Lensbaby lenses, in ways that open up a big world of creative possibilities,†said Lensbaby Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder Craig Strong. “Our macro filter kit lets you experience this freedom in a new, up close and personal way.â€Â  Â
The 46mm Macro Filter Kit is multi-coated to deliver the highest possible contrast and is compatible with the Sweet 35, Sweet 50, Sweet 80, Edge 50, Edge 80, Twist 60 and Creative Bokeh Optics. Simply screw the filter onto the front of your favorite Lensbaby for creativity on a tiny scale. To get even closer to your subject, stack two or three macro filters or combine with Lensbaby Macro Converters. Â
Users can purchase the 46mm Macro Filter Kit for $49.95 at lensbaby.com or select Lensbaby-authorized retailers.Â
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About LensbabyÂ
For over a decade Portland, Oregon-based Lensbaby has inspired and challenged photographers on their journey to finding their unique, visual voice.Â
 Lensbaby makes award-winning, one-of-a-kind lenses, optics and accessories for risk-taking photographers who believe that photography is an expression of their soul.Â
 Lensbaby provides instructional content through their educational hub, Lensbaby University and sells its products worldwide. For more information, visit www.
*All wording & images are provided by Lensbaby
