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RØDE Announces the Wireless PRO, The Most Powerful Wireless Microphone Ever – Press Release

RØDE ANNOUNCES THE WIRELESS PRO

THE MOST POWERFUL WIRELESS MICROPHONE EVER

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: Tuesday, August 22, 2023

RØDE has today announced a groundbreaking new wireless microphone system for filmmakers and content creators, the Wireless PRO. Fresh off the back of releasing the Wireless ME, the perfect grab-and-go mic for creators, RØDE has now unleashed the most powerful compact wireless system ever with the Wireless PRO. Boasting an unprecedented feature set not found in any microphone – let alone a compact wireless system – the Wireless PRO delivers next-level audio quality and unmatched versatility for today’s demanding creators and filmmakers. Taking the legacy of the legendary Wireless GO series to new heights, this is the ultimate wireless microphone.

KEY FEATURES OF THE WIRELESS PRO:

Compact dual-channel wireless microphone system.
RØDE’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption for crystal-clear, incredibly stable audio at up to 260m (850 ft) line of sight.
Universal compatibility with cameras, smartphones and computers.
32-bit float on-board recording with 32GB internal memory for clip-free audio in any recording application.
Advanced timecode capability for quick-and-easy audio sync in post-production.
Intelligent GainAssist technology, flexible output gain control and safety channel for ensuring pristine audio when recording direct to camera.
Locking 3.5mm lavalier connectors for complete security.
Headphone output with on-board level control.
TRRS input for headset or other “narrator” microphone on receiver for recording up to three audio channels simultaneously.
Plug-in power detect for extended battery life.
Complete accessory kit, including smart charge case, two Lavalier II microphones, cables, MagClip GO magnetic mounting clip and accessory case.
Easy configuration on a computer or smartphone via RØDE Central.
Designed and made in RØDE’s precision facilities in Sydney, Australia.

“In 2019, the Wireless GO was the first truly wireless microphone to enter the market,” says RØDE CEO Damien Wilson. “RØDE was the first company to create a compact and easy to use workflow that forever changed the way creators capture audio for their content. The Wireless GO II took this even further, adding incredible new features and setting a new standard for compact wireless audio. Today, we take this iconic microphone a step further once again with the Wireless PRO. We’ve left no stone unturned when it comes to features in this new system, packing incredibly powerful and useful features like 32-bit float on-board recording and advanced timecode capability into the same compact, easy-to-use form factor that thousands of creators around the world use every day.”

ULTRA-COMPACT PROFESSIONAL WIRELESS

Despite its vast feature set, the Wireless PRO features the same pocket-sized form factor as the rest of RØDE’s compact wireless range, with a sleek new black-on-black aesthetic for extra discretion. It comes in a dual-channel set with two transmitters and a receiver and utilises RØDE’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission and proprietary near-zero latency codec with 128-bit encryption to deliver crystal-clear, incredibly stable audio at distances up to 260m (850 ft) line of sight. Integrated clips and broadcast-quality in-built omnidirectional microphones on the transmitters make getting set up a breeze, and it is universally compatible with cameras, smartphones and tablets, computers, and other audio devices via its analog 3.5mm TRS and digital USB-C outputs.

PERFECT AUDIO IN ANY SCENARIO

The Wireless PRO offers an array of powerful features for ensuring creators can capture flawless audio every single time. 32-bit float on-board recording capabilities allow users to record directly to the transmitters with no chance of the audio clipping. This groundbreaking feature ensures users will always have a clean backup of their session – even in extremely dynamic scenarios – and eliminates the need to set gain levels prior to recording, making the creative workflow more streamlined than ever before. 32GB of internal memory offers over 40 hours of on-board recording, with dedicated buttons on the transmitters making triggering recordings super easy.

For users that want to record audio directly into their camera, the Wireless PRO provides a plethora of features for capturing pristine audio. This includes RØDE’s innovative GainAssist technology – first introduced with the Wireless ME – which utilises intelligent algorithms to automatically control audio levels on the fly, ensuring the output is smooth and balanced and minimising the risk of clipping. It also features a flexible output control with a huge 30dB gain range available, allowing users to precisely tailor the mic’s output to their camera, as well as pre-configured camera presets for quick-and-easy setup. For added peace of mind, the Wireless PRO also offers a safety channel feature, which outputs a second channel of audio 10dB lower than the primary channel in case the signal is too hot and clips the camera input.

These features combined make recording pristine audio incredibly easy. No matter their preferred workflow, users can set their Wireless PRO up to deliver perfect audio in almost any environment or scenario, taking the guesswork out of recording and unlocking more creative freedom.

RECORD AND SYNC

To perfectly complement its 32-bit float on-board recording feature, the Wireless PRO offers advanced timecode sync capabilities, making synchronising audio to video in post-production extremely easy. Eschewing the need for complex and expensive external timecode systems, the Wireless PRO features an internal timecode generator that is easy to use and seamlessly synchronises audio with any camera. This can be easily set up on a computer or smartphone via RØDE Central, with flexible configuration options to suit any recording setup.

MORE FEATURES, MORE FLEXIBILITY

In addition to its powerful on-board recording and advanced timecode capabilities, the Wireless PRO offers an abundance of other professional features that make it uniquely flexible. Both transmitters feature locking lavalier connectors for complete security when using an external lavalier or other microphone with a locking connector. Plug-in power detect on the receiver – which automatically powers the unit on and off in sync with a connected camera – extends battery life in the field. The 3.5mm output on the receiver also functions as a headphone output for audio monitoring (complete with flexible output level control) as well as an audio input for a headset or other TRRS “narrator” microphone, such as a lavalier. Merged and split recording modes, marker dropping and customisable buttons are just a few other features that make the Wireless PRO the most powerful wireless microphone system available. The Wireless PRO can also be easily configured on a computer or on the go with a smartphone using the RØDE Central companion app, allowing users to set it up exactly as they need anywhere.

COMPLETE PRO ACCESSORY KIT

The Wireless PRO comes with a complete pro accessory kit, giving users everything they need to get recording right away. This includes a smart charge case, which not only protects the transmitters and receiver when in transit, but also ensures they are always fully charged and facilitates ultra-fast data transfer for quickly exporting on-board recordings to a computer in the studio or in the field. Two Lavalier II microphones deliver broadcast-grade audio capture and the MagClip GO magnetic clips allow for flexible mounting of the transmitters on talent or the receiver on a recording device. It also comes with three high-quality furry windshields for recording in windy conditions, all necessary cables for connecting to cameras, phones and other devices, and a handy case for keeping these accessories safe. The Wireless PRO is designed and made in RØDE’s precision manufacturing facilities in Sydney, Australia, and is built using the highest quality components.

The Wireless PRO sets a lofty new standard for compact wireless audio. No other microphone offers such a wide range of powerful features or guarantees perfect audio in any recording application like the Wireless PRO does, affirming RØDE as the leader in innovative audio solutions for today’s creators.

Videos

RØDE – The Most Powerful Wireless Mic Ever: Features and Specs of the Wireless PRO – “In this video, Ryan introduces the RØDE Wireless PRO, the most powerful wireless mic ever, packed full of cutting-edge features like 32-bit float, timecode and GainAssist that offer incredible flexibility for recording pristine audio for your content.” – video

Images

RØDE Wireless PRO. Image courtesy of RØDE.

Files

RØDE – Wireless PRO – PDF

Comments

We’ve been waiting for just this moment and exactly this professional-quality wireless microphones system with all of these specifications.

Looks like Australia’s RØDE Microphones has hit a colossal home run.

Fujifilm Launches Mirrorless Digital Camera “FUJIFILM X-S20” – Press Release

Fujifilm Launches Mirrorless Digital Camera “FUJIFILM X-S20”

-An all-in-one compact and lightweight model incorporating a high-capacity battery, high-performance AF and video-recording functions
-Capable of shooting approximately 800 frames per charge, i.e. more than double the previous model, to accommodate all-day shooting during travel

May 24, 2023

TOKYO, May 24, 2023 – FUJIFILM Corporation (President and CEO, Representative Director: Teiichi Goto) announce the launch of the mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-S20” (X-S20) on June 29, 2023. It is a new addition to the X Series of mirrorless digital cameras known for their compact and lightweight body and superior image quality based on the company’s proprietary color reproduction technology. In its compact and lightweight body that has been well-received in previous model*1, the X-S20 features AI-based subject-detection AF and capability to record 6.2K/30P video. The X-S20 can take approximately 800 frames*2 per charge with the use of the newly-adopted high-capacity battery and keeps operating for an extended duration of time, making it an ideal travel camera.

The X-S20 offers premium image quality and advanced portability, catering to a variety of shooting styles ranging from casual self-portraits to fully-fledged photography and videography.

The X-S20 is equipped with the back-illuminated 26.1MP sensor “X-Trans™ CMOS 4”^*3 and the high-speed image processing engine “X-Processor 5” to produce high-quality images. It features X-S Series’ signature large grip for hand-holding stability. The use of the new high-capacity battery has more than doubled the number of frames per charge to approximately 800 compared to that of the previous model. The compact and light body, weighing just 491g^*4 makes it comfortable to use even in long-hour shootings. The camera also features the five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) mechanism that offers up to 7.0-stop advantage^*5. The AI-based subject-detection AF, capable of detecting animals and cars, adds to its AF performance, equivalent to the fifth-generation X Series camera, FUJIFILM X-T5, for added mobility.

The X-S20 is equipped with high-performance video recording functions such as 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit video onto an SD card inserted in the camera. By installing the cooling fan FAN-001^*6, the users can shoot 6.2K/30P video for up to 78 minutes^*7. Also, with the adoption of a φ3.5mm microphone / earphone jack, the users can shoot fully-fledged video using external accessories. Furthermore, the new Vlog Mode makes it easy to produce a Vlog when the camera is combined with the tripod grip, “TG-BT1.”^*6

Fujifilm will support users enjoy photography and videography in comfort by continuing to offer the X Series of mirrorless cameras with APS-C sensors, an extensive lineup of premium-quality lenses including the FUJINON Lens XF8mmF3.5 R WR, also released today, and the dedicated app, FUJIFILM XApp.

*1 Mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-S10”
*2 When in the economy mode
*3 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.
*4 Including the supplied battery and a memory card
*5 Compliant with CIPA in pitch / yaw directions, with the FUJINON Lens XF35mmF1.4 R mounted
*6 External accessory
*7 At the time of a cold start in the operating environment at 25℃, with the Auto Power Off Temperature set for “High,” H.265 4:2:0, Bitrate setting at 50Mbps. The recording time depends on the remaining level of battery charge and the type / capacity of memory card used. Note that the camera may automatically stop recording video when the body temperature rises beyond the threshold.

1. Product features

(1) Achieving high image quality and high-performance AF with the 26.1MP image sensor and the latest high-speed image processing engine

The X-S20 is equipped with the back-illuminated 26.1MP sensor “X-Trans™ CMOS 4” and the latest high-speed image processing engine “X-Processor 5” to produce high-quality images while keeping power consumption lower than the previous model.
The camera features the subject-detection AF, developed with deep learning technology, in addition to the existing Face and Eye AF. AI is used to add the ability to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects and drones*8. The AF system automatically tracks an intended subject while keeping it in focus, allowing users to concentrate on a shutter opportunity and framing. The evolved AF prediction algorithm enables stable focusing even in the AF-C mode*9.

The AUTO mode, which automatically selects optimum settings according to scenes, is complemented with the new AUTO Subject Detection function. It automatically detects a subject and tracks it while keeping it in focus, making it easy to produce high-quality stills and videos.

The X-S20 comes with 19 Film Simulation modes including “Nostalgic Neg.,” characterized by high saturation and soft tonality. Users can use Film Simulation presets to suit individual subject types and scenes, as if they are choosing photographic films.

*8 Set the Subject Detection Setting to “BIRD” when you want to detect insects and to “AIRPLANE” when you want to detect drones.
*9 This function maintains focus on a subject in the focusing area when the shutter button is half-pressed.

(2) Incorporating high-capacity battery and high-performance IBIS mechanism into the compact and lightweight body for ease and comfort

The X-S20 features X-S Series’ signature large grip for hand-holding stability, while keeping the body compact and light, weighing just 491g.

The use of the new high-capacity battery, NP-W235, has more than doubled the number of frames per charge to approximately 800 compared to that of the previous model. Extended battery life means users can enjoy shooting without worrying about the remaining charge level, making the camera the perfect choice for extended all-day shooting or during travel.

The camera is equipped with the five-axis IBIS mechanism that offers up to 7.0-stop advantage. It makes it easy to shoot at night or in low-light conditions hand-held.
The X-S20 is equipped with a 2.36-million-dot EVF with 0.62x magnification as well as a 1.84-million-dot rear LCD monitor with the vari-angle structure, which can be positioned in a range of angles, making self-portraits easy. The camera can be combined with the tripod grip, TG-BT1, for Vlog production.

(3) 6.2K/30P video recording and other extensive video functions

The X-S20 can record 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit video onto an SD card inserted in the camera, and also supports extensive video functions including 4K/60P and 1080/240P capability.
The camera features F-Log2 for recording video in the expanded 13+ stop dynamic range for enriched tonality, providing creative freedom in post-production.

Up to 6.2K/30P 12-bit RAW video output is supported via HDMI. Use the ATMOS monitor “NINJA V+”*10 to record Apple ProRes RAW*11 and the Blackmagic Design monitor “Video Assist 12G”*12 to record Blackmagic RAW.

The camera has a 3.5mm microphone / earphone jack for high expandability despite its compact and lightweight body. Furthermore, the new Vlog Mode has been introduced for Vlog production. Set the mode dial on the top panel to “Vlog” to change camera settings with a touch of a button for self-portraits.

Use a USB-Type C cable to connect the camera to a computer to use it as a webcam*13 without having to use software such as FUJIFILM X Webcam. Film Simulation modes are available for live streaming or online meetings. Shooting settings can be adjusted even while the camera is connected to a computer.

*10 A product of ATMOS integrating a monitor and a recorder
*11 Apple ProRes is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the United States and other countries.
*12 A product of Blackmagic Design integrating a monitor and a recorder
*13 4K output requires a 4K-compatible monitor, a USB-C cable of USB 3.0 or greater, and supported software.

2. Optional accessories

Cooling fan “FAN-001”*14 (already released)

This cooling fan can be attached to the rear panel of the camera body without a cable, supporting long hour shooting and video recording in a high-temperature condition. The power can be supplied to the fan from the camera body.

Tripod grip “TG-BT1”*15 (already released)

This grip enhances mobility and camera’s hold while adding tripod functionality. Users can comfortably take self-portraits and low angle shots, where it is normally difficult to hold the camera in position. As a tripod, the TG-BT1 can be used for a wide range of applications from group shots to tabletop still.

*14 Compatible models are FUJIFILM X-S20, FUJIFILM X-H2S and FUJIFILM X-H2.

*15 Compatible models are FUJIFILM X-H2S (Ver.3.00 or later), FUJIFILM X-H2 (Ver.1.2 or later), FUJIFILM X-T5 (Ver.1.00 or later), FUJIFILM X-T4 (Ver.1.70 or later), FUJIFILM X-T3 (Ver.4.50 or later), FUJIFILM X-S10 (Ver.2.60 or later), FUJIFILM X-T30 II(Ver.1.20 or later) and FUJIFILM X-T30 (Ver.1.50 or later).

Images

Fujifilm X-S20 with Fujinon XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ. Image courtesy of B&H.

Fujifilm X-S20 showing Fujifilm NP-W235 Lithium-Ion Battery (7.2V, 2200mAh). Image courtesy of B&H.

Fujifilm X-S20 with Fujifilm FAN-001 Cooling Fan. Image courtesy of B&H.

Fujifilm X-S20 with Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS. Image courtesy of B&H.

We’re Taking a Break to Continue Our Research on the Late, Great Australian Director of Photography & Cinematographer Robert Krasker, BSC

With NAB just over and May’s Fujifilm Summit coming soon there is plenty of subject matter to keep us going with hardware and software-based articles and items relating to documentary photography and video.

But we’ve had to make the decision to take a break from all that for a little while in order to do some serious work on The Robert Krasker Project.

We’ve reached the limit of what we can find out for free about Robert Krasker and his many achievements in feature film cinematography during his brilliant career that extended from the early 1930s until his premature retirement due to ill health in the mid-1960s.

He, his life and his work were remarkable and all of us in the screen industries should be proud of him and know his name and achievements, but we seem to have acquired a national amnesia about him.

Robert Krasker is one of many remarkable creative Australians we’ve forgotten in this way.

We’re seeking to help change that for the better.

Australian feature film cinematographer and Director of Photography Robert Krasker, BSC. Original image courtesy of Dr Falk Schwarz then improved by Karin Gottschalk.

We’ve been coming up against what amounts to paywalls that are in the way of further, deeper research, so now we’re working out how to obtain funds and thus access to more information.

Even without breaching those paywalls there are a number of useful things that we could be doing but again they cost money in time and resources and the means of production.

If you wish to assist us in this effort, please consider donating via our PayPal account that’s linked to at top right of each page under the heading of Please Donate.

We’ll still be attending the Fujifilm House of Photography’s free workshop events in Sydney and will be documenting them and photographing them in our usual way.

We’ll also be producing some of our more usual articles if they warrant drawing time and attention away from The Robert Krasker Project.

Fujifilm X-Pro3 With 3-Way Tilting LCD Monitor Screen? This Is What The X-Pro3 Should Have Had In The First Place – Updated

When Patrick DiVino of Fuji Rumors shared the image of a Fujifilm X-Pro3 with a three-way tilting LCD screen instead of the camera’s hidden LCD screen with its reportedly fragile ribbon cable I wondered if somebody at Fujifilm Switzerland had gone off the reservation.

We chose not to invest in an X-Pro3 after trying one out and being less than thrilled with some of the design and manufacturing decisions made by Fujifilm in its quest to make the third X-Pro model into a camera for “pure photography” by “street photographers”.

Fujifilm would have been better advised to choose another word than “pure” given purity’s connotations in eugenics, religion and politics and we hope that the X-Pro4 will return to being a solid, reliable, innovative and versatile precision instrument for professionals, documentary photographers and photojournalists as well as enthusiasts seeking a unique optical viewfinder experience not possible with SLR-style cameras.

A Fujifilm X-Pro3 with 3-way tilting LCD screen?

optimized_screenshot_fujifilm_fujifilm-schweiz_x-pro3_tilt-lcd-screen_01_2048px — Screenshot, Fujifilm X-Pro3 with non-standard 3-way tilting LCD monitor screen, Fujifilm Switzerland.

optimized_fujifilm_fujifilm-schweiz_x-pro3_tilt-lcd-screen_01_1024px — Fujifilm X-Pro3 with non-standard 3-way tilting LCD monitor screen, Fujifilm Switzerland. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Switzerland.

optimized_screenshot_fujifilm_fujifilm-schweiz_x-pro3_non-tilt-lcd-screen_01_2048px — Screenshot, Fujifilm X-Pro3 with hidden LCD screen in place of previous non-standard 3-way tilting LCD monitor, Fujifilm Switzerland.

As for the term “street photographers”, we may photographically document life in the streets every so often and even produce what might be described as “street photographs”, though there’s more to be seen in them than a street or, for that matter, a lone figure flitting between between sharply defined shafts of sunlight and shadow.

Like most photographers our interests extent beyond one genre, one subject, one style or even one strictly-defined set of design and content rules and regulations.

The thing we like the least about our beloved Fujifilm X-Pro2

Whatever our subject or approach, one of the things we like least about our X-Pro2 is its old-style fixed LCD screen and we would have preferred a fully-articulated or even a tilting screen instead.

When we needed good quality video for volunteer work at a human rights charity, we invested in Panasonic cameras with their fully articulated screens and found how useful they are for stills photography when working in tight spaces and needing to be discreet in potentially risky situations.

Since DxO added DeepPRIME XD to its support for Fujifilm X-Trans raw files in DxO PhotoLab Elite and related software we’ve been carrying our X-Pro2 almost every day instead of our Panasonic Lumix GX8 and we miss the latter’s fully-articulating LCD.

Then there’s our Lumix GX8 & DxO’s amazing software

When we absolutely must have the GX8’s tilting EVF and fully articulating LCD then of course that becomes our daily carry for the duration, or we attach the tiny Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspheric Mega OIS lens instead of its default Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro and carry it in our waist-pack alongside our X-Pro2.

DxO’s recently added support for Fujifilm X-Trans now means we can now process Bayer and X-Trans raw files from different cameras with the same film simulation or camera sensor profile and it is next to impossible to tell which camera shot what image.

We can choose from DxO’s Fujifilm-specific film simulations in the Color Rendering/Digital Films collection or from a vast range of other analog film and sensor simulations derived from DxO’s years of testing every piece of hardware and film stock upon which they can collectively lay their hands.

We can make our images look like they’ve been shot with, for example, an oldie-but-goodie Minolta 7D or a long list of other new and old digital cameras, or an almost as long list of colour transparency, colour print, black-and-white or cross-processed colour films and movie grading effects.

Our default choice continues to be DxO’s Fujifilm Astia film simulation for its excellent rendering of skin tones and colour transparency look and feel, at least for the time being.

Then depending on the specific look and feel a given project demands we may choose from amongst some of our favourite colour negative film simulations such as Fujifilm Superia in its several different versions or Kodak Portra 400 or 160VC.

We’ve been waiting for all this for so long and we’re ecstatic it’s now possible and that it works so well.

The real Fujifilm X-Pro3 with hidden flip-down LCD screen

Fujifilm X-Pro3 with MHG-XPRO3 grip and Fujinon XF 35mm f/2.0 R WR prime lens.

optimized_fujifilm_x-pro3_flip-hidden-lcd-screen_01_1024px

Fujifilm X-Pro3 with hidden flip-down LCD monitor screen. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Australia.

optimized_fujifilm_x-pro3_flip-hidden-lcd-screen_02_1024px

Fujifilm X-Pro3 with hidden flip-down LCD monitor screen. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Australia.

fujfilm_fujinon_xf_18mm_f1.4_r_lm_wr_08_1920px

Fujifilm Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR on Fujifilm X-Pro3. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Australia.

fujfilm_fujinon_xf_18mm_f1.4_r_lm_wr_09_1024px

Fujifilm Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR with Fujifilm LH-XF18 Lens Hood on Fujifilm X-Pro3. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Australia.

live-from-tokyo-x-summit-shibuya-2019--fujifilm-01185515_gigapixel

The tilting LCD monitor on the Fujifilm X-Pro3 digital rangefinder camera. Still frame from live streaming video of Fujifilm X-Pro3 from Fujifilm X Summit on 20th September 2019.

What we’d like to see in the X-Pro4

In-body image stabilization aka IBIS.
40 megapixel sensor.
Larger, brighter optical viewfinder aka OVF.
Dual magnification OVF.
OVF bright lines for 18mm through to 56mm: longer than that, switch over to the EVF.
OLED electronic viewfinder aka EVF instead of X-Pro2’s TFT EVF.
Durable fully-articulating or tilting LCD monitor for working discretely in difficult situations and no failure-prone ribbon cable.
Up to Cinema 4K recording on par with X-T5 – we prefer C4K’s 17:9 cinematic aspect ratio to television’s 16:9.
Top-class autofocus.
Larger battery than X-Pro2 so we don’t have to carry two spares for day-long documentary projects.
Better, deeper built-in grip.
Optional accessory hand grip for even more security in holding it.
Dual SD card slots with UHS-II compatibility.
D-pad for fast programmable access to functions instead of over-reliance on touchscreen gestures.
HEIF – 4:2:2 10-bit.
5:4 and 4:3 aspect ratios for magazine and portrait photography and other commissioned work.
Pixel-shift multi-shot images.
Less reflective, darker and more durable black coating – I have no use for fingerprint-magnet Duratect coatings and colours.
Monochrome live view option for the EVF enabling focus peaking to better be seen regardless of film simulation – on Panasonic Lumix cameras I use red focus peaking in monochrome live view and it’s very effective.

We’d like to see Fujifilm become the second hybrid mirrorless camera maker to adopt the EL Zone System formulated by Edward Lachman, ASC, after Sigma added it to the firmware of its Sigma fp and fp L 35mm sensor cameras.

Panasonic was first cinema camera maker to add EL Zone System to the firmware of its VariCam cinema cameras and a growing list of other companies making hardware and software for video production and post-production have already done so or are in the process.

Any hybrid mirrorless camera would benefit from the EL Zone System for accurate exposure and wouldn’t need traditional video exposure aids like scopes and waveforms.

Fujicron compact prime lenses for X-Pro4, new, improved & all rated for 40 megapixels

Fujifilm’s current Fujicron prime lenses are well-suited for use with X-Pro series digital rangefinder cameras due to their narrow front ends that minimize intrusion into the lower right of their optical viewfinders.

Haoge’s front tapering lens hoods help reduce the sometimes annoying OVF intrusion by longer plastic hoods while being more protective of the lens’ front element due to their aluminium construction that better protects than plastic.

optimized_fujifilm_fujinon_xf-30mm-f2.8-r-lm-wr-macro_03_1024px — Fujifilm Fujinon XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro prime lens with bundled lens hood. Image courtesy of B&H.

fujinon_xf50mmf2.0rwr_haoge_lh-x50n_comp_01_1024px — Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50mm f/2.0 R WR with Haoge LH-X50N metal bayonet-mounted lens hood. Objects are not to exact scale. Image objects courtesy of B&H and Haoge.

The recently-released Fujinon XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro lens is spot on with its aperture ring lock and we like its fast autofocusing via linear motor so we’d like to see one or both added to revisions of current Fujicron lenses.

We’d also like to see Fujifilm round out its Fujicron compact lens collection and consider filling the gap between the currently unreleased 9mm and a possible new 14mm lens to replace the current non-compact 14mm.

XF 9mm f/3.5 – Yet to be released at time of writing but would be useful for architecture and landscape photography.
XF 14mm f/2.8 R WR – Current version is sized more like a Fujilux fast aperture lens and has manual clutch focus, which I love, but a smaller Fujicron version would complete this set.
XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR II – I’d almost forgotten this one altogether as it’s far from my favourite focal length but current version needs an aperture ring lock.
XF 18mm f/2.0 R WR – Previous pancake version was optically and mechanically compromised and the f/1.4 Fujilux version is not a replacement but an alternative better suited to larger cameras.
XF 23mm f/2.0 R WR II – Current version has optical shortcomings close-up and needs aperture ring lock.
XF 27mm f/2.8 (f/2.0) R WR III – Version II pancake lens suffers from same propensity as version I of its focusing mechanism to fail requiring costly repairs that may fail yet again: needs redesigning as a Fujicron lens with sturdy lens barrel and focusing mechanism as well as aperture ring lock, and should be upgraded to f/2.0 maximum aperture.
XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR – First in the series to gain aperture ring lock and so far it looks promising as a 45mm-equivalent perfect normal lens slightly longer than 27mm (40.5 equivalent) perfect normal.
XF 35mm f/2.0 R WR II – Needs aperture ring lock.
XF 50mm f/2.0 R WR II – Needs aperture ring lock.
XF 70mm f/2.0 R WR – Classic 105mm equivalent for portraiture, documentary and photojournalism but not as large and heavy as an f/1.4 Fujilux version would be: if f/2.0 maximum aperture leads to oversized lens then f/2.8 may be acceptable.

The compact size and affordability of these lenses also makes them attractive for owners of the Fujifilm X-T5 and other more affordable non-flagship cameras as well as older, smaller Fujifilm cameras.

DxO: DxO PureRAW 3, the groundbreaking RAW photo enhancement software, gives photographers incredible image quality thanks to DeepPRIME XD – Commentary

DxO PureRAW 3, the groundbreaking RAW photo enhancement software, gives photographers incredible image quality thanks to DeepPRIME XD

March 15, 2023

Together with innovative DeepPRIME XD — eXtreme Detail — denoising technology, this major new version of DxO’s award-winning RAW processing software delivers greater control without reducing the ‘one-click’ functionality that users love. It also features pivotal upgrades to the user interface, making workflow even smoother.

Paris (France): DxO Labs, the company which kick-started modern RAW processing and lens correction, today announces the immediate availability of DxO PureRAW 3, its revolutionary RAW enhancement software. PureRAW 3 optimizes the quality of any RAW image by eliminating noise, improving color, enhancing detail and correcting lens flaws.

DxO PureRAW 3 now features DxO’s latest artificial intelligence technology, DeepPRIME XD, delivering industry-leading noise reduction and RAW image enhancement; greater control over which corrections are applied through DxO’s renowned Optics Modules; and user interface modifications that offer improved integration with every photographer’s workflow.

DxO DeepPRIME technology gets even better — and for Fujifilm photographers, too!

DxO PureRAW set the standard for noise reduction and image improvements – but the introduction of DeepPRIME XD pushes performance even further. By using a larger neural network than regular DeepPRIME, DeepPRIME XD delivers greater levels of detail, improved color accuracy, and smoother, noise-free bokeh when shooting at even the highest ISO levels.

With DeepPRIME XD, photographers report improvements of more than 2.5 stops in noise performance. For example, images shot at ISO 4000 more closely resemble those captured at ISO 500 in terms of noise, color, and clarity.

Because noise reduction is performed as part of the RAW conversion process, DeepPRIME XD can also improve the dynamic range of an image, giving photographers greater flexibility when shooting in challenging situations where light is limited. The original DeepPRIME mode remains part of DxO PureRAW 3 for images that demand less enhancement or where faster performance is required.

“DeepPRIME almost surprised us when we first saw the results,” explains DxO’s VP of Marketing and Product Strategy, Jean-Marc Alexia. “We quickly realized that a larger neural network could boost performance, and that’s what we’ve delivered with DeepPRIME XD. This technology pushes the boundaries even further, and DxO PureRAW 3 will revolutionize any photographer’s images — and without disrupting their existing workflow.”

Until today, DeepPRIME XD did not process RAW files from cameras with an X-Trans sensor. However, with DxO PureRAW 3, Fujifilm X Series photographers will be delighted to learn that their cameras are supported, a development reflected in DxO PhotoLab 6.4, also released today. As a result, X-Trans images can undergo incredible noise reduction, remarkable detail enhancement, and the restoration of accurate colors, especially when shooting at high ISO levels.

Power is nothing without control

As well as greater performance, DxO PureRAW 3 gives photographers a new level of control. The software’s updated interface now offers options for levels of lens softness correction, as well as the ability to toggle vignetting and chromatic aberration corrections. Furthermore, photographers can access the whole image area captured by the sensor, avoiding the crop enforced by other software when correcting deformations.

Interface improvements for a smoother workflow

DxO PureRAW 3 also introduces a number of improvements when it comes to workflow. Users can create multiple queues when batch processing large numbers of files, with the option to edit, re-order, and prioritize both images and queue lists while processing is underway. In addition, photographers can now choose to export files in TIFF format, alongside the existing JPEG and Linear DNG options.

Finally, the user interface has been revamped, bringing it closer in line with other DxO software.

About DxO PureRAW

DxO PureRAW is the only software of its kind, making unprecedented enhancements to RAW files at the beginning of a photographer’s existing workflow and therefore giving them the best possible foundations on which to edit.

Breaking with convention, the software uses convolutional neural networks to perform the demosaicing and denoising processes of RAW image conversion simultaneously. Having been trained using billions of image samples, the network is able to produce results that far exceed those made by human-designed algorithms, giving users Linear DNG files that have all of the flexibility of the original RAW file, but with the best possible image quality in terms of color, noise, and fine detail.

In addition, DxO PureRAW uses DxO’s highly regarded Optics Modules, a database of well over 80,000 lens and camera body combinations that provide the highest levels of corrections to lens softness, geometric distortions, vignetting, and aberrations. Updates in March 2023 bring support for a number of cameras and lenses including two popular Nikon Z zoom lenses, an RF prime from Canon, and a selection of cameras from Panasonic.

About DxO

For over 20 years, DxO has blazed a pioneering trail in the fields of photographic science and digital image processing. Built on principles of technical rigor and ceaseless innovation, we were at the forefront of bringing RAW development to photographers, and continue to build the most powerful and versatile software on the market, all designed to offer the greatest image quality and creative freedom. Along with its exacting Optics Modules, available in all our products, we publish DxO PhotoLab, which won the EISA 2020-2021 award for Best Photo Software and the TIPA award for Best Imaging Software in 2020, 2021, and 2022; the award-winning RAW preprocessing and noise reduction software, DxO PureRAW; and Nik Collection, the renowned suite of creative plug-ins for Adobe Photoshop®, Lightroom Classic®, and DxO PhotoLab.

Images

optimized_dxo_dxo-pureraw-3_header_02_2048px — DxO PureRAW 3.

optimized_dxo_dxo-pureraw-3_header_03_2048px — DxO PureRAW 3.

optimized_dxo_dxo-pureraw-3_header_04_2048px — DxO PureRAW 3.

Commentary

At last, versions of DxO PhotoLab and DxO PureRAW that support Fujifilm X-Trans raw image files as well as Fujifilm Bayer raw image files, and a myriad of Bayer raw files by many other camera makers too.

We’re looking forward to putting DxO PhotoLab Elite 6.4 and DxO PureRAW 3 to the test with some newly-made photographs in the coming days.

Colour us very, very excited.

What Do We Know About Fujifilm’s Native integration for Frame.io Camera to Cloud with X-H2S & X-H2 So Far?

Some time in the northern hemisphere’s spring 2023 Frame.io Camera to Cloud with Fujifilm’s X-H2S and X-H2 will be launched and we’ll learn more about it then.

But what information is currently available about it?

I asked myself exactly that when researching for an article about Fujifilm Australia’s free Discover Fujifilm Video workshop to be held in Sydney on Saturday March 25, 2023 and below is what I’ve discovered so far.

Fujifilm USA: Understanding Fujifilm X-H2S and Adobe Frame.IO

“Fujifilm and Adobe jointly announced that X-H2S, with the FT-HG attached, will be the first stills camera to directly incorporate Camera to Cloud file uploads into Frame.IO collaboration. Find out what that means for you.”

Fujifilm X-H2, X-H2S, Fujinon cinema lenses & accessories & File Transmitter FT-XH

Fujifilm X-H2. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Global.

Fujifilm X-H2S. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Global.

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Fujifilm FT-XH File Transmitter Grip. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Global.

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Fujinon XF 18-120mm f/4.0 LM PZ WR stills + video zoom lens with lens hood. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Global.

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Fujifilm Fujinon MKX 18-55mm T2.9 cinema zoom lens. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Global.

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Fujifilm Fujinon MKX 50-135mm T2.9 cinema zoom lens. Image courtesy of Fujifilm Global.

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Tascam CA-XLR2d-F XLR Microphone Adapter for Fujifilm cameras. Image courtesy of Tascam.

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Fujifilm USA: Frame.io Camera to Cloud Integration.

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Fujifilm USA: Frame.io Camera to Cloud Integration.

Links

B&H Affiliate Link – click here to research and purchase or pre-order your choice of cameras, lenses and accessories for stills photography and video production whatever your genre and subject matter.
B&H Affiliate Link – Fujifilm – X-H2 – X-H2S
B&H Affiliate Link – Fujifilm – X Series Lenses – Primes
B&H Affiliate Link – Fujifilm – X Series Lenses – Zooms – XF 18-120mm f/4.0 LM PZ WR
B&H Affiliate Link – Fujifilm – Cinema Lenses – MKX18-55mm T2.9 Lens (Fuji X-Mount) – MKX50-135mm T2.9 Lens (Fuji X-Mount)
B&H Affiliate Link – Fujifilm Accessories – Fujifilm VG-XH Vertical Battery Grip – Fujifilm FT-XH File Transmitter Grip – Fujifilm FAN-001 Cooling Fan – Fujifilm NP-W235 Lithium-Ion Battery (7.2V, 2200mAh) – FUJIFILM TG-BT1 Tripod Grip with Bluetooth
Frame.io – website
Fujifilm X USA – File transmitter FT-XH – Contains File Transmitter FT-XH Tutorial movies.
Fujifilm X USA – Join the Cloud Revolution this Spring – “The World’s First Native Digital Stills Camera Integration for Frame.io Camera to Cloud Is Coming to FUJIFILM X Series. Native integration for Frame.io Camera to Cloud with X-H2S and X-H2 is planned for release in early spring 2023*. It will be available as a firmware update developed to enable automatic delivery of stills or video directly from the camera to the cloud.” – Sign up for updates.
Fujifilm X USA – Take the Work Out of Workflow – “The world of workflow is changing. In October 2022, Fujifilm announced a development collaboration for native Camera to Cloud (C2C) integration with Adobe via Frame.io – a world-first for stills cameras. Initially, a direct connection to Frame.io via Adobe C2C was only possible with FUJIFILM X-H2S and FT-XH File Transmitter, but it has now been confirmed that a spring 2023 firmware upgrade will see FUJIFILM X-H2 added to the list of compatible models.”
Fujifilm X USA – Understanding FUJIFILM X-H2S and Adobe Frame.IO – video
Imagen.ai – website
Skylum – website
SmugMug – website
Unititled.Net – CineD: Our Recap of the FUJIFILM Day at the ASC Clubhouse – Commentary

Leitz Auction: Leica Vario-Elmar-M 3.5-5.6/28-75mm Aspheric Prototype – Commentary