The Nikon Zf is now available in even more colors. Photo: Nikon

The Nikon Zf is known for its retro design, but now there's even more ways to get one that looks like a camera of yore. Nikon has announced a silver edition, which features – no points for guessing – a silver top and bottom plate instead of a black one.

Nikon designed the Zf silver edition to resemble the chrome plating on cameras like the Nikon F. The true retro-nod comes in the silver and black model, which offers the same textured black leatherette found on the existing all-black version.

If you prefer something a little flashier, you can get the silver finish version wrapped in some of the existing colors from the black version, including Moss Green, Stone Gray and Sepia Brown. The silver also ushers in three new "premium" color options, which will also be available for the black-bodied version of the Zf as well. The Cognac Brown is a lighter brown than the existing Sepia option. Similarly, the Teal Blue is a brighter, more colorful blue than the existing Indigo. Finally, Mauve Pink is a lighter red.

The colored leatherette extends to the top of the cameras as well. Photo: Nikon

The total number of Zf color variations will vary by region. For example, the black Zf has been available in four colors in the US, but seven in the UK.

Taking the retro-viber further, Nikon also announced an upcoming firmware update for the Zf that will add a Film Grain feature. As the name implies, the feature will allow users to add grain to photos and videos. It's a customizable option, with three grain size options and six grain strength levels. The feature can be combined with presets created by Nikon and creators and Picture Control color modes. Nikon didn't provide a specific date for the firmware update, but said it will be out sometime in 2025.

The Nikon Zf Silver Edition will be available in late September for $2200. The three premium colors – Cognac Brown, Teal Blue and Muave Pink – will cost $2300.

The previously reported 7Artisans AF 35mm f/1.8 full frame lens for Sony E-mount is now officially announced and available for pre-order:

7artisans | AliExpress | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE | Amazon CA | Amazon FR | Amazon ES | Amazon IT

Additional information on the new lens:

• Cinematic Video & Tracking – Fast, silent, and precise autofocus for smooth subject tracking
• Golden Humanist Perspective – 35mm focal length for natural, lifelike compositions
• F1.8 Bokeh – Soft, creamy background blur elevates portraits, food, and stills, sharp even in low light
• Perfect for Tight Spaces – Compact design for balanced compositions in confined environments
• Versatile Across Scenes – Ideal for portraits, street, video, food, and night photography
• Elevate your photography and videography with the AF 35mm F1.8 E-Mount — fast, silent, and precise autofocus that keeps every creative story in focus
• Frame: Full Frame
• Mounts: E mount
• Focus Range: 0.4m – ∞
• Filter Size: φ62mm
• Weight: ≈426g(E)
• Price: $299

The post 7Artisans AF 35mm f/1.8 full frame lens for Sony E-mount officially announced appeared first on Photo Rumors.

What’s coming this year to Luminar Neo – in addition to ecosystem features, Luminar Neo users will receive three powerful upgrades (see also this post):

• Restoration: Bring old or damaged photos back to life in a single click. Perfect for reviving family memories or vintage prints with deep scratches or faded color.
• AI Assistant: Our new intelligent guide that analyzes photos and recommends optimal edits. Ideal for beginners and pros alike, it makes powerful tools like Develop Raw, Curves, and Color Harmony easier to use than ever.
• Volume – free for all users: Instantly add depth and dimensionality by enhancing light and shadow. A one-click solution to elevate contrast and visual impact — no manual Dodge & Burn needed.

New Luminar Neo offers for September:

New users can buy:

• Luminar Neo Cross-device Perpetual license (Luminar Neo + Luminar Mobile) for $159
• Luminar Neo Max Perpetual license (Luminar Neo + Luminar Mobile + Creative library) for $179

Existing Luminar Neo owners can buy:

• Ecosystem Pass (Generative tools + New tools + Luminar Mobile + Web Galleries + Cross-device editing mobile to desktop) for $79
• 2025/26 Upgrade Pass (Generative tools + New tools) for $59

ON1 announced Photo RAW 2026:

• Masking overhaul: Mask Layers, one‑click Subject/Background masks, cleaner AI edges.
• Effects upgrades: Favorites & search in Add Filter, Starting Point presets, + four new creative filters.
• Resize AI 2026 built in: Next‑gen super resolution and noise handling, no separate app or plugin.
• Extras: Negative Mode for film scans, grayscale support, improved perspective tools, flexible UI.

DxO Labs released several updates ot their products:

• DxO PhotoLab 9 released
• DxO PureRAW 5.3 released
• A new version of DxO FilmPack is coming on September 30:
  • A brand-new integration with Adobe Photoshop
  • A powerful tool for photographers who scan film and slides
  • An entirely new way to explore the DxO TimeMachine
• New cameras and lenses support added:
  • Canon PowerShot VI
  • DJI Mavic 4 Pro
  • Fuji GFX
  • Nikon Coolpix P1100
  • Panasonic S1
  • Panasonic S1 IIE
  • OM System OM 5
  • Canon PowerShot Vl Lens
  • Canon RF 20mm F1.4 L VCM
  • DJI Mavic 4 Pro lens
  • Fuji GFX 100RF Lens
  • Panasonic Lumix S 24-60mm F2.8
  • Samyang AF 14-24mm F2.8 FE (Sony FE)
  • Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN A (Sony FE)
  • Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN A (L-mount)
  • Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN A (Sony FE)
  • Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 C OSS
  • Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS With SEL TC1.4x
  • Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS with SEL TC2x
• The new DxO Modules can be found in the following DxO software:
  • DxO PhotoLab
  • DxO PureRAW
  • DxO FilmPack
  • DxO ViewPoint
  • DxO NikCollection

The post The latest updates from Luminar, ON1, and DxO appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Images: Nikon, C2PA

Last week, Nikon released firmware v2.0 for the Z6III, which brought support for C2PA Content Credentials alongside several other features. Theoretically, the cryptographic signature should prove that an image was authentically captured with the camera, and that it hasn't been tampered with since its creation. However, DPReview forum user Horshack has found a way to get the camera to sign an image that it didn't actually take.

You should check out the thread for Horshack's (well-written, as per usual) explanation of how he did it. The summary is that it works by using the Z6III's Multiple Exposure feature. Nikon lets you select a photo as your base, and then stack multiple exposures on top of it. Horshack selected a Raw image taken by another Z6III without the content credentials feature enabled.

This image, created inauthentically, has Content Credentials that claim it was taken with a Z6III. Because it was... but only kind of. Image: Horshack

He then took a multiple exposure picture with the lens cap closed. The result: the previously unsigned image, now with a Content Credential attached. If you put the JPEG into Adobe's Content Credential Inspect tool, it appears to be a perfectly normal image, signed as authentic by the Z6III.

Horshack theorizes this trick would work even with a Z6III Raw file that had been modified to include, say, an AI-generated image. Stuffing another image into a Raw file isn't necessarily something you can do with standard software, but Horshack believes it could be done, thereby removing the need to take an authentic image in order to get a signed file.

The capture details section doesn't contain any information that the image was created by taking multiple exposures.

The trick isn't completely bulletproof. The image's EXIF data reports that it was created using multiple exposures, though Horshack also discovered that you may be able to edit an image's metadata fields without invalidating the content credential. A few fields, such as the camera's serial number, are stored within the credential itself, but most are not.

We attempted to edit a few metadata fields using exiftool, but each test we did resulted in Adobe's Content Credentials Inspect tool showing that it no longer had credentials.

I assumed Nikon wouldn't sign images taken with the feature

Horshack says he discovered the issue after trying to come up with ways the Content Credentials feature might fail. "When I thought of it I assumed Nikon wouldn't sign images taken with the feature, to prevent the outcome I achieved," he said.

When Nikon announced the Content Credentials feature for the Z6III, it classified it as a beta, so there were bound to be bugs. (In fact, Horshack also seems to have figured out why some users had to wait several hours before their cameras started signing images.) However, being able to use it to sign images taken under different conditions is a pretty big issue, one we hope that Nikon will iron out as soon as possible.

We've reached out to Nikon for comment, and will update this story if we get a response.

The latest issue of Nikkei Financial Quarterly Report published camera shipments data by manufacturer from 2021 to 2024:

Mirrorless camera shipments data (2021-2024)

2024

1. Canon: 2.05 million units
2. Sony: 1.63 million units
3. Nikon: 760,000 units
4. Fujifilm: 490,000 units
5. Panasonic: 160,000 units
6. OM Digital: 130,000 units

2023

1. Canon: 1.96 million units
2. Sony: 1.53 million units
3. Nikon: 630,000 units
4. Fujifilm: 380,000 units
5. Panasonic: 140,000 units
6. OM Digital: 120,000 units

2022

1. Canon: 1.54 million units
2. Sony: 1.25 million units
3. Nikon: 530,000 units
4. Fujifilm: 360,000 units
5. Panasonic: 140,000 units
5. OM Digital: 140,000 units

2021

1. Sony: 1.4 million units
2. Canon: 1.17 million units
3. Fujifilm: 400,000 units
4. Nikon: 290,000 units
5. OM Digital: 200,000 units
6. Panasonic: 180,000 units

DSLR camera unit sales trends (2021-2024)

2024

1. Canon: 790,000 units
2. Nikon: 70,000 units
3. Pentax: 10,000 units

2023

1. Canon: 920,000 units
2. Nikon: 130,000 units
3. Pentax: 10,000 units

2022

1. Canon: 1.32 million units
2. Nikon: 200,000 units
3. Pentax: 10,000 units

2021

1. Canon: 1.57 million units
2. Nikon: 440,000 units
3. Pentax: 10,000 units

Compact digital camera shipments (2023-2024)

2024

1. Sony: 470,000 units (→)
2. Canon: 430,000 units (↓)
3. Fujifilm: 130,000 units (↑)
4. Ricoh: 60,000 units (↑)

2023

1. Sony: 470,000 units
2. Canon: 460,000 units
3. Fujifilm: 50,000 units
4. Ricoh: 50,000 units

Nikkei published mirrorless camera shipments data (2021-2024): Nikon up 100,000+ units per year

Ricoh/Pentax global camera shipments units for 2024: SLR cameras remained flat, while compact cameras are on the rise

Nikkei published DSLR camera units shipments data by manufacturer (2021-2024): Pentax flatlined

Via dc.life, NikonRumors

The post Mirrorless, DSLR, and compact camera shipments data (2021-2024) appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Rollei has a new “We are back” teaser on social media:

We’re back with big plans, new projects, and plenty of analog inspiration.

As of 2015, the Rollei and Rolleiflex brand names are owned by RCP Technik Verwaltungs GmbH, which reorganized into Rollei GmbH & Co. KG on January 1, 2015 (based in Hamburg, Germany).

We have recently seen new lenses and cameras under the Rollei brand – most of them (all?) are probably just licensing deals (see also the Amazon Rollei store and the B&H listings):

New Rollei Powerflex X8 dual lens camera released with a main lens on the front and a selfie lens on the back

Rollei 85mm f/1.8 AF full-frame lens for Nikon Z and Sony E cameras

The new Rollei 35AF film camera is now available for pre-order

The post Rollei: new “We are back” teaser appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Photo: boonchai wedmakawand / Moment via Getty Images

As photographers, one of our worst fears is discovering a failed hard drive or dead computer, resulting in losing countless photographs. Unfortunately, backing up images is an afterthought for many, putting those files at risk. If you fall in that camp, it may be time to consider how to revamp your backup process to protect your images.

The 3-2-1 rule has become the gold standard for photo backup, offering a safe method for keeping your work safe. Here's what you need to know about this method of backup.

What is the 3-2-1 rule?

Photographer Peter Krogh is typically attributed with coming up with the 3-2-1 rule nearly two decades ago. He wrote about his method in his 2009 book The DAM Book: Digital Asset Management for Photographers. While digital storage has changed drastically since then, the general principle remains relevant.

The backup method explains that you should have three copies of your files. Files should be stored on two different types of media, and one copy should be kept offsite. Following that process helps to protect your files from hardware failure and physical disasters like fire or theft.

Components of the 3-2-1 rule

Each number of the 3-2-1 rule refers to a separate component in the backup process. Here are the different parts you should be aware of.

Three copies

You should have three copies of your files for the utmost protection, though they shouldn't all be on the same media type. Photo: Mitchell Clark

The first number of the rule says that you should have three copies of your data. It's important to have three copies so that if something happens to your main storage, you have additional backups. While it isn't likely that two backup sources are damaged, it is possible, and a third gives you an extra layer of protection.

Your primary computer can count as one copy, which may work when you first start out. However, you will likely eventually have far too much to store on a computer, so you'll need another backup option at some point.

Two types of media

Of your three copies, you should use at least two different types of media instead of two separate devices of the same kind. Using different media diversifies the risk, thus lowering the chances of failure for both options.

There are many different types of media at our disposal these days. You could opt for one copy on hard drives and one in the cloud, or you could opt for a Network Attached Storage (NAS) system and portable SSDs. The important thing is to have two distinct systems that you keep updated.

One offsite

Image: Andriy Onufriyenko / Moment via Getty Images

Finally, one copy of your files should be stored offsite. Storing a backup of your work in a different location from your other two helps protect against risks like theft or natural disasters. After all, if all of your backups are stored in your home and a fire comes through, all of your work will be gone, no matter how many physical copies you have on hand.

When thinking about an offsite version, it's useful to understand the difference between an offsite copy and an offsite backup. A proper backup is a structured, versioned process that allows for data recovery of the original files. It protects against loss, corruption, accidental deletion and more and allows you to essentially go back in time. DPReview editor Mitchell Clark once had his extensive library of photos saved because he had them all backed up to Backblaze, a cloud backup service he often recommends to friends and family.

"A proper backup is a structured, versioned process that allows for data recovery."

On the other hand, a copy is simply a duplicate saved elsewhere that lacks a version history. Cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox aren't considered proper backups because they only sync files rather than providing a robust, versioned archive. Those platforms are still vulnerable to ransomware, accidental file deletion or overwriting with the wrong versions. They are fine in a pinch and as a temporary solution, but be aware that they are not intended to serve as true backups.

You may also be tempted to use a hard drive kept at a separate location as your offsite copy. This could work as a limited short-term solution, but shouldn't be used long-term. It's very common to plug a hard drive in only to find that it's dead, as I learned the hard way years ago. There are optical media options, such as M-Disc, which are designed to last a really long time and can hold up to 100GB each, but standard hard disk drives are not considered safe for long-term backup.

Protect your files

Photo: Mitchell Clark

The 3-2-1 rule certainly sounds simple on paper, but implementing a robust backup system can be time-consuming and overwhelming. However, the earlier you put this method into practice, the easier it will be, and the less you'll have to worry about losing your hard work. And if you can find ways to automate it to reduce the risk of human error, all the better.

 
Owlkrown is a new US-based company that produces various accessories for cameras. Founded just last year, they already offer a large array of products. Their signature Owlkrown straps can now also be ordered with the new Hasselblad clip.

You can now get 10% off any order at Owlkrown with code LEICARUMORS10.

Owlkrown products are also sold at B&H Photo.

The post Here is a nice new Owlkrown strap for your Hasselblad camera (with the new Hasselblad clip) appeared first on Photo Rumors.

The latest issue of Nikkei Financial Quarterly Report reported that OM System continues to be in the red in 2024, with sales of 36.6 billion yen and a negative operating profit of -1.2 billion yen:

OM System financial results 2024

• Sales: 36.6 billion yen
• Operating profit: -1.2 billion yen
• Mirrorless cameras: 130,000 units
• Compact cameras: 50,000 units

OM System financial results 2021-2023

• 2023: Sales ¥29.2 billion | Operating profit -¥210 million
• 2022: Sales ¥28.2 billion yen | Operating profit -¥640 million yen
• 2021: Sales: ¥21.9 billion yen | Operating profit: -¥1.8 billion yen

Via dc.life, 43addict

The post OM System continues to be in the red in 2024 with a negative operating profit of -¥1.2 billion yen appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Sigma announced changes in sales method and pricing of the 14mm f/1.4 DG DN | Art lens for L-mount and E-mount (B&H Photo | WEX Photo | Foto Erhardt):

Sigma Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) announces changes to the sales method for the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art, due to the significant delays in delivery times. This is to continue meeting diverse customer needs and ensure stable product supply. Additionally, we will be changing the product name, refreshing the exterior design and packaging, and adjusting the price accordingly.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience these changes may cause and kindly ask for your understanding as we strive to continue providing high-quality products and services.

Changes in sales method

Currently, we have no stock of this product except for what is currently available in stores. As a result, we are experiencing significant delays in shipping newly ordered products, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our customers.
Going forward, we will transition to a made-to-order system as follows.

• Previously: Regular sales
• Going forward: Made-to-order sales (orders will be accepted for a limited time and shipped at a later, scheduled date)

Schedule

• Order acceptance period (2025): September 4 to October 31
• Shipment of the product: from March 2026

We will provide further details regarding the order acceptance period and schedule for next year and beyond at a later date.

Changes of product name, exterior, and packaging

Starting with products shipped from next year, the name will be changed as follows.

• Previously: SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art
• Going forward: Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG | Art

This change is in line with our new visual identity (VI) announced in February 2025, and we will also refresh the engravings on the exterior of our products and accessories, as well as packaging.
Please note that there will be no changes to the optical quality. We will continue to deliver the same imaging performance as before with a new look.

Price adjustment

In light of recent external factors such as rising raw material costs and manufacturing and logistics costs, we have decided to revise our price.

Additional informtion on the Sigma 14mm f/1.4 lens:

• Sample photos (more available here and here)
• Press release
• Product page
• World’s fastest full-frame 14mm lens
• Optimized for astrophotography
• Key features and related videos:
• 14mm focal length
• f1.4 maximum aperture
• Made for full-frame, also compatible with crop sensor
• Manual focus lock switch
• Rear filter holder
• Thorough aberration correction
• Aperture ring with click and declick Options
• Quick and quiet autofocus
• 1170g / 2.58lbs
• 19 elements in 15 groups

Sigma 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art lens for Sony E and Leica L mount officially announced

The post Sigma changes sales method and pricing of the 14mm f/1.4 DG DN | Art lens (E/L) appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Viltrox added two new lenses to their roadmap:

• Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8 Air E/Z (APS-C)
• Viltrox AF 14mm f/4 Air E (full-frame)

Since Viltrox is now part of the L-Mount Alliance, I expect them to release their top-selling full-frame lenses also for L-mount.

Viltrox announced new camera lens cleaning travel kit for $13

The post Two new Air lenses added to the Viltrox roadmap: 9mm f/2.8 & 14mm f/4 appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Here is what else is new:

Nikon shares jump 21% as Essilor Luxottica weighs boosting stake

Second Nikon USA price increase as a result of the Trump tariff is here + significantly limited rebates for September

Nikon released firmware update version 1.11 for the Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens

New: Oberwerth camera bag Albert for Leica D-Lux 8 cameras (coupon code included)

OM System continues to be in the red in 2024: operating profit expected to be -¥1.2 billion yen

Ricoh/Pentax global camera shipments units for 2024: SLR cameras remained flat, while compact cameras are on the rise

Fujifilm GFX100SII Firmware 1.20 Released

The post What else is new? appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Image: MirageC / Moment via Getty Images

Last week marked the second edition of our 'Question of the week' forum series. Our first question centered around what to consider when buying a new camera, and lenses came up quite frequently. So this time around, we wondered what five questions you should ask yourself when choosing a new lens.

Can I afford it?

First and foremost, just about everyone mentioned cost considerations. Most of you had some variation of "can I afford it" or "how much does it cost?" For some of you, lens cost was the only question you brought up, showcasing the importance of price when choosing a lens.

JohnSil even went further and asked, "If I don't buy this lens today, will it cost more tomorrow?" Given that US customers have been facing repeat price increases across many brands, it's a worthwhile consideration.

Is it a need?

The other most common question we saw related to determining whether you truly need the lens. Again, that was the only question that mattered to some of you. There were some that added provisions for simply wanting a lens, but many of you focused on need rather than want.

Similarly, many of you suggested asking if the lens fills a specific need that your current lens(es) do not. For example, Robin Dr24 said, "Will the new lens fill a gap? The gap could be an uncovered (range of) focal lengths or a wider aperture or alternate physical attribute(s) (smaller size, lighter weight, less focus breathing, tilt/shift capability)." If you're buying a lens that is very similar to something you already have, that may not be a worthy use of money.

We also really liked Jaime100's advice to ask yourself repeatedly over the course of a few weeks if you need the new lens. They added that "if you can hold off on this purchase for 3 weeks, one will be surprised on how much 'you do not need' nor find yourself wanting."

Size considerations

Lens size was also a common refrain. While some pointed out a balance between lens size and features like maximum aperture, others prioritized size and weight above all else. CmB2024 made a great point, asking, "Will I bother to carry it or, due to size and weight, will it get left at home?" If the new lens is large enough that you don't want to use it regularly, there's probably not much point in spending money on it.

Does it have the features I want?

Lens features are another important consideration. There are different preferred features, of course, but reflecting on what type of features matter most is a great suggestion when choosing a new lens. For example, Fabian Joya suggested asking yourself, "Does this lens have the features/ergonomics that I need, e.g. focusing speed, control ring, etc."

Some lenses are very basic in terms of on-lens controls, so asking yourself what features you need on the lens is very useful in making sure you purchase one you'll be happy with in the long run. Additionally, if the new lens adds features you don't have on other lenses, it's worth thinking about whether it might change how you use lenses you already own. To that end, GeoffRG suggests asking, "Will it mean that I use other lenses less?"

Image quality

Finally, but certainly not least, image quality was a common mention. Jefenator posed one such question: "Will the sharpness be sufficient in the appropriate areas at the appropriate settings?" Given that lenses significantly impact overall image quality, it makes sense that this should be a top question to consider when buying a new lens.

The thread is still open if you haven't had a chance to participate yet and would like to. Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts and insight!

Click here to answer the Question of the week

Sigma's 14mm F1.4 DG Art lens is a superb option for astrophotography. In 2023, it earned Dale Baskin's Gear of the Year pick. Photo: Dale Baskin

The Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art lens has been a popular offering since its launch in 2023, so much so that it's been challenging to purchase. In a recent statement, Sigma acknowledged it has had "significant delays in delivery times" for the ultrawide prime and said it will be changing how users purchase the lens as a result.

Sigma explained that it currently doesn't have any stock of the 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art lens, other than what is available in stores. To address this, the company says it is switching to a "made-to-order" system. Users will be able to place orders for a limited time, and the lens will then ship at a later date.

The company says that orders will be open from September 4 through October 31. However, the lens won't ship until March 2026, so users who pick one up during the limited order period will have to wait a while to actually get the lens in their hands.

Photo: Dale Baskin

In addition to adjusting how customers order the lens, Sigma increased the price to $1839 for US customers. This is the second price increase for the lens, as it was bumped from its $1599 original MSRP to $1759 when Sigma increased its prices in the US because of tariffs. Sigma explained the new price is a result of "rising raw material costs and manufacturing and logistics."

Finally, the Sigma said it is updating the external design of the lens, the product name and packaging to fit the company's new visual identity announced this spring. The new name (Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG | Art) ditches the DN, which used to indicate the lens was designed for mirrorless cameras. Given that Sigma is no longer designing new lenses for DSLRs, it makes sense that it wouldn't need that designation anymore.

Image: Viltrox

On the heels of announcing it had joined the L-Mount Alliance, Viltrox has unveiled a new lens, though not for L-mount cameras. The AF 56mm F1.2 Pro promises "professional-grade" optical design and attractive bokeh for E and X mount APS-C cameras at a budget-friendly price.

The Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 lens sits in the company's Pro lineup, offering a fast maximum aperture with advanced autofocus. It's designed for APS-C cameras, providing a 84mm equivalent focal length. With the fast F1.2 aperture, it should be an excellent portrait prime lens for APS-C users.

Image: Viltrox

The lens uses Viltrox's HyperVCM motor, which it says is smooth and silent with minimal focus breathing, making it an ideal choice for photo and video. It can focus as close as 0.5m (1.6'). The optical design comprises 13 elements in 8 groups, including three high-refractive index elements, one extra-low dispersion element and one ultra-large precision aspherical lens. Viltrox says the lens is sharp and clear across the frame and promises limited chromatic aberration.

The 56mm lens features an aperture ring that can be clicked or de-clicked, a dedicated Fn button and an AF/MF switch. Viltrox also made the lens to be a durable offering. The aluminum alloy body is weather-sealed, promising to keep out dust and moisture. It is compatible with 67mm filters and features a USB-C port for firmware updates.

The Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro is available pre-order for E and X mount for an MSRP of $580.

PhotoLab 9 features AI Masks to make retouching faster and easier. Image: DxO

French software company DxO has announced PhotoLab 9, its latest Raw editing platform. DxO says this is its most powerful Raw editor yet, offering improved masking capabilities, newly added batch renaming and support for iPhone HEIF and ProRaw files.

It's no surprise that AI features are at the forefront of the software announcement. DxO added AI Masks tools that use AI to create "pixel-precise selections in an instant." The tool is very similar to Lightroom's AI Masking option, which automatically creates masks of common and prominent subjects for users to select from.

Within PhotoLab 9, users can create these in three ways. They can hover and click on different parts of the photo or draw a box around an area that contains the object. DxO also added Subject Types, a list of predefined objects users can select from, including sky, people, faces and hair. The Subject Type option can also be "intelligently copied and pasted between images" or saved as a preset. When used as a preset, the mask is contextually aware of the selection, so it will automatically adjust for each image. It promises to make retouching much faster.

The AI Masks aren't the only way to make selections, either. DxO's U Point Technology was the predecessor to AI, allowing for intelligent masks based on image content using color and contrast information. DxO combined the new AI Masks with its U Point Technology, allowing for more control over selections.

Local adjustments allow users to adjust noise in only select areas. Image: DxO

With the help of the new masking and selection tools, PhotoLab 9 gains the ability to make local adjustments for noise reduction (using DeepPrime) and lens sharpness (with DxO's Lens Sharpening Optimization). With local adjustments, users can selectively reduce noise in heavy shadow areas or only sharpen key subjects, for example.

The DeepPrime XD3 engine is now out of beta. Image: DxO

PhotoLab 9 also adds support for Apple iPhone HEIC/HEIF and ProRAW file formats. Photographers who use their iPhone will now be able to keep their editing in one platform if they are DxO users. Additionally, DxO said that its DeepPrime XD3 engine for intense processing on demanding files is out of beta and compatible with all X-Trans cameras.

Finally, DxO added some workflow functionality as well, including batch renaming. Files can now be batch renamed, including an automatic setting for names using image metadata, EXIF information or custom text.

DxO PhotoLab 9 is available now. A new license costs $240 while an upgrade costs $120.

Image: Canon

Canon UK has posted a teaser on its Instagram account, saying that "something new is coming" and encouraging people to set a reminder to watch a YouTube livestream on September 9th at 3PM CEST (6AM PT / 9AM ET).

The teaser image is surprisingly revealing, showing what looks like a video-focused camera with a boxy design and potentially 1/4-20" mounting points on the top plate. It also clearly shows a red Record button in place of a shutter and a front-facing tally light.

The design is reminiscent of the EOS R50 V, an APS-C vlogging camera the company released earlier this year which featured a gimbal-friendly form-factor. However, given the several control points shown in the image and what looks to be a red-ring lens attached, it won't be surprising if this is a higher-end offering.

It's also worth noting that the announcement is set right before the start of the IBC (International Broadcasting Convention) trade show, where we typically get a look at company's video-focused offerings.

Whatever Canon has planned, it sounds like we won't have to wait that long to get more details.

Sigma has a new teaser for their upcoming lenses (click for a larger view – the labels are just a guess):

• Sigma 135mm f/1.4 Art DG
• Sigma 20-200mm f/3.5-6.3
• Sigma 35mm f/1.2 Art DG DN II

It seems that the small lenses on the teaser have already been released (Sigma 12mm f/1.4 DC DN lens and Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art?)

Here are the details on the three new lenses for Sony E and Leica L-mount  (announcement on September 9):

Sigma 135mm f/1.4

• Full-frame
• 105mm filter thread
• Weight: 1320g
• Classic black finish
• Removable tripod collar
• No focus breathing

Sigma 20-200mm f/3.5-6.3

• Full-frame
• 72mm filter thread
• Weight under 600g

Sigma 35mm f/1.2 II

• Full-frame
• About 25% shorter and lighter than version I

Sigma to announce a new 135mm f/1.4 full-frame lens on September 9th during the “Master of Optics” event

Additional information on the upcoming Sigma 135mm f/1.4 DG Art full-frame lens

The post Another teaser for the upcoming Sigma lenses appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Here is some additional information on the upcoming Sigma 135mm f/1.4 DG Art full-frame lens that is expected to be announced on September 9th during Sigma’s “Master of Optics” event:

• Full-frame autofocus lens
• 105mm filter thread
• Weight: 1320g
• Classic black finish
• Removable tripod collar
• Available for Sony E and Leica L-mount
• New product launch live broadcast: Time: September 9, 2025
• “Master of Optics” special exhibition: September 10-11, 2025
• Pictures of the Sigma 135mm f/1.4 (via photar)

Here are some weight comparisons with other similar lenses:

• Sony FE 135mm F/1.8 G-Master: 950 grams
• Nikkor Z 135mm F/1.8 S Plena: 995 grams
• Sigma 135mm F/1.8 DG HSM Art: 1200 grams (Sony E version)
• Canon RF 135mm F/1.8L IS USM: 935 grams (with stabilization)

Sigma to announce a new 135mm f/1.4 full-frame lens on September 9th during the “Master of Optics” event

The post Additional information on the upcoming Sigma 135mm f/1.4 DG Art full-frame lens appeared first on Photo Rumors.

As I already reported, today Viltrox became the 10th member of the L-Mount Alliance.

Currently, Viltrox has only cinema lenses and adapters for L-mount:

Additional information can be found here:

Viltrox joins the L-Mount Alliance

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