We’re not getting the feeling that an announcement for the EOS-1D X Mark II is imminent, details for the new DSLR are still very scarce.</p>
<p>We are told that the frame rate is going to be 14fps in full RAW mode. That frame rate with the rumored brand new 24mp sensor will be quite the accomplishment.</p>
<p>We’re also hearing that the LCD on the camera will get an “upgrade” over the current EOS-1D X, though nothing specific was shared with us.</p>

<em>High-performance lens features VC image stabilization, improved AF and weighs just 400g (14.1 oz.)</em></p>
<p><strong>August 6th, 2015, Saitama City, Japan</strong> – Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono), a leading manufacturer of precision optics, today announces the introduction of a new high-performance lens that zooms from 18 to 200mm for APS-C DSLR cameras.</p>
<p>The new 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC (Model B018) is the successor to AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di II LD Aspherical [IF] MACRO (Model A14), which has been one of Tamron’s best-selling lenses since its introduction 10 years ago. The new 18-200mm VC uses the most modern optical and mechanical design to achieve compactness and high performance.</p>
<p>Incorporating image stabilization, the 18-200mm VC delivers superior image quality and is the lightest zoom in its class. Tamron made full use of its long experience and expertise as a pioneering force in high-power zoom lenses to create an optimal all-in-one™ lens that opens up new photographic possibilities to all DSLR camera users.</p>
<p><!--more--></p>
<p>* Among 18-200mm interchangeable lenses for APS-C DSLR cameras with O.I.S. (As of June, 2015. Source: Tamron)</p>
<p>Product name: 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC (Model B018） For Canon/ Nikon/ Sony*1</p>
<p>Date of Launch: August 24, 2015</p>
<p>The Canon and Nikon mount models will be first simultaneously launched. The launch date of the Sony mount model will be announced at a later date.</p>
<ol>
<li>No need to change lenses—shoot in a wide variety of settings, from true wideangle to telephoto, with a single lens

A zoom range of 18 to 200mm (35mm equivalent: 28-310mm) means there is no need to change lenses even when switching from wideangle shots in tight places to long telephoto shots of distant objects. Ideal for everything from large groups photos, family pictures, portraits, scenery, animals and school events—even for close-up shots (less than 0,5m) of food.</li>
<li>Greater portability at a weight of just 400g—the lightest lens in its class

Covers the focal length range of 18 to 200mm and features Tamron’s VC (Vibration Compensation)*2, but weighs a mere 400g. Tamron designed the 18-200mm VC to be as user-friendly as possible by emphasizing portability and convenience. Users will appreciate the incredible balance and comfortable feel of this lens—even when used with the newest APS-C DSLR cameras.</li>
<li>Features VC and AF, providing valuable support for DSLR camera novices

Camera vibration is magnified in telephoto shots and when a slow shutter speed is used because of dim lighting. Even beginners can take great photos at long distances, at night, and indoors—and avoid camera shake—thanks to Tamron’s acclaimed VC mechanism. By incorporating a newly designed autofocus drive module with optimal DC motor-gear train integration, the 18-200mm VC also focuses much more quickly and quietly than models with conventional DC motors.</li>
<li>Delivers enhanced imaging performance in a lightweight package

Featuring 16 elements in 14 groups, the 18-200mm VC uses an LD (Low Dispersion) lens element to minimize chromatic aberrations. Although light and compact with VC, Tamron’s new offering also delivers amazing overall optical performance for an all-purpose lens. A circular, seven-blade aperture diaphragm maintains an almost perfectly round shape even at two stops down from its maximum aperture, providing desirable and beautiful bokeh with point light sources blurring into naturally rounded shapes.</li>
<li>Works great as an easy-to-use lens for day-to-day use

For added dependability and longer life, Tamron’s new lens features moisture-resistant construction that helps prevent damage caused by accidental exposure to wetness. The lens also comes with a Zoom Lock feature to prevent unwanted barrel extension when users carry their lens and camera body combinations with the lens pointed toward the ground.</li>
</ol>
<p>*1 The Sony mount version does not include VC because Sony DSLR bodies incorporate built-in image stabilization. The name of the Sony mount model is “18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II” without the VC designation.

*2 VC (Vibration Compensation) is Tamron’s proprietary image stabilization mechanism.</p>

Joey Miller, a longtime employee of LensRentals.com has completed his brief review of the upcoming Sony A7R II. I have a lot of respect for Joey, he’s a great shooter and shoots a lot of different cameras and mediums. If you want the opinion of a working photographer, his is worthwhile.</p>
<p>From Joey:</p>
<blockquote><p>I really think Sony nailed it with this one. Maybe I wouldn’t shoot roller derby with it yet, but for pretty much everything else, I think this is going to be my go to camera, especially once the lens line up is filled out more. I absolutely love the Sony FE 28mm. The Sony FE 90mm macro is nice, but it’s slow. I had good luck with M mount lenses, though, with the Leica 90mm APO-Cron and Leica 21mm Lux really knocking it out of the park on this high res sensor. If you’ve been waiting for a better alternative to your big, bulky DSLR, this might finally fit the bill. I’ve been hesitant to say that for the a7S, a7R, and the a7 II, even though I love those cameras, but the a7R II, I think this is the one. Try it out ASAP! <a href="http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2015/08/sony-a7r-ii-a-brief-review" target="_blank">Read the full review</a></p></blockquote>
<p><strong>Sony A7R II Body $3198: <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1159878-REG/sony_a7r_mark_ii_digital.html/BI/2466/KBID/3296/DFF/d10-v21-t1-x647086" target="_blank">B&H Photo</a> | <a href="http://www.adorama.com/ISOA7R2.html?kbid=64393" target="_blank">Adorama</a> | <a href="http://amzn.to/1LhKh5l" target="_blank">Amazon</a></strong></p>

A new patent showing a EF 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6 IS has appeared and we suspect this could be related to the EF 24-105 f/3.5-5.6 IS.</p>
<p>Patent Publication No. 2015-132637</p>
<ul>
<li>Published 2015.7.23</li>
<li>Filing date 2014.1.9</li>
</ul>
<p>Example 4</p>
<ul>
<li>Zoom ratio 4.76</li>
<li>Focal length 24.73 55.13 117.60</li>
<li>Fno. 3.60 4.91 5.83</li>
<li>Half angle of 41.18 21.43 10.42</li>
<li>Image height 21.64</li>
<li>Lens length 149.01 170.43 200.01</li>
<li>BF 38.67 61.21 74.86</li>
</ul>
<p>Canon patents</p>
<ul>
<li>Anti-vibration (Group 6)</li>
</ul>

Apparently Leica will introduce a new camera system in 2015, along with a line of autofocus lenses. It’s speculated that this could be a new M mount camera with AF, EVF and an ability to use the current manual focus M mount lenses.</p>
<p>Leica Rumors breaks down what they’ve heard:</p>
<ul>
<li class="amzn_view_checked amzn-taggable-text">Full fame camera with autofocus</li>
<li class="amzn_view_checked amzn-taggable-text">New line of AF lenses</li>
<li class="amzn_view_checked amzn-taggable-text">Very good high ISO performance – probably the best in the industry</li>
<li class="amzn_view_checked amzn-taggable-text">Will be available in stores before Christmas</li>
</ul>
<p>This could turn out to be a very interesting product, one I would definitely be interested in. I currently shoot with a Leica M-P and I love it.</p>
<p> </p>

<p>Amateur Photographer has a great article about aerial photographers that use the EOS-1D X and EOS-1D C to look for physical trouble on the UK’s rail system.</p>
<blockquote><p>Many photography enthusiasts would jump at the chance to combine a hobby with their day job. Aviation photography fan Sean Leahy is lucky enough to do just that. He twins his passion outside work with a full-time job shooting photographs from a helicopter high in the skies over southern England. <a href="http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk/latest/photo-news/meet-the-aerial-photographers-who-fly-around-britain-keeping-our-railway-tracks-out-of-danger-58325#9fGIrRShRxdqOYAQ.99" target="_blank">Read the full story…</a></p></blockquote>
<p><em>Photo Credit // Chris Cheeseman</em></p>