Image: Aura

Digital picture frame brand Aura has announced a new take on its frames with the Aura Ink. The new digital frame opts for a low-power e-paper display, enabling a cord-free design that isn't stuck to locations near outlets. Aura says the Ink will look more like a print and less like a screen and claims this is the thinnest e-paper frame available.

Those familiar with e-readers or tablets that use e-paper may be scratching their heads and questioning the display's quality for photographs. The Aura Ink, though, differs from e-readers in that it uses E Ink Spectra 6, which is not currently found in any e-readers. It is, however, found in other digital photo (and poster) frames, such as the InkPoster, so Aura isn't the only company using the tech to show off more detailed imagery.

The Aura Ink can be mounted to the wall or placed on a tabletop. Image: Aura

E Ink Spectra 6 uses six ink colors (white, black, red, yellow, green and blue). Aura says it added a proprietary dithering algorithm that expands the appearance of its six-color system into millions of tones. As a result, Aura claims it gives the illusion of a full-color photograph. "We hold color accuracy, brightness, and overall photo reproduction to a higher standard—even while working within the unique characteristics of e-paper, such as its narrower palette, more muted tones, refresh process, and pixel structure," explained Eric Jensen, Aura’s Chief Technology Officer and co-founder.

The 13.3-inch Aura Ink display also features a built-in, automatically adjusting front light to boost contrast and vibrancy without glowing like a traditional screen. Like Aura's other frames, it uses paper-textured matting and a glossy finish to look like a traditionally framed print.

A zoomed-in crop of the display. Images: Aura

Aura says the frame refreshes overnight to show a different photo each day, using a gradual, 30-second imprinting process that reconfigures each pixel's physical color. You can change the schedule to show more pictures throughout the day, but the single photo per day provides a more traditional print experience.

One of the benefits of the e-paper design is lower power usage compared to an LCD. "A top request has been a truly wireless frame with minimal charging, and e-paper is the only technology today that can deliver that," said Jensen. Aura says it provides up to three months of battery life on a single charge, meaning users can place the frame anywhere without considering outlet location. The cordless design also makes it more attractive when hanging on the wall and more feasible to integrate into traditional gallery walls.

The testing process. Photo: Aura

The Aura Ink is also quite slim, even for traditional picture frames, measuring just 15.24mm (0.6"). Like Aura's LCDs, it offers unlimited photo sharing without a subscription and allows friends and family to contribute photos from anywhere. The frame features hidden buttons to allow for manual changes, or users can control what's on display via the Aura app.

The Aura Ink is now available for $499.

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Buy now:

Buy at Aura

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The previoulsy reported Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 lens for Sony E-mount is now officially announced:

• Pre-order: B&H Photo
• Additional information
• Press release
• Product page
• Development announcement:

Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 G2 8x zoom full-frame lens development announced

The post Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 lens for Sony E-mount officially announced appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Image: Tamron

Tamron has announced the 25-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 full-frame lens for Sony mirrorless cameras. The G2 is a successor to the existing 28-200mm F2.8-5.6, updated to go significantly wider at the wide end of its zoom.

The 8x range means that, even with the expansion at the wide end, it doesn't count as a superzoom, but combined with a relatively bright F2.8-5.6 maximum aperture range it gives a very flexible lens.

The extra coverage at the wide end of things should boost its usefulness by more than the modest 3mm reduction might imply, especially as it comes with approximately half macro (1:1.9) magnification at the 25mm position.

It moves to using a VXD voice-coil linear motor, rather than the rotary stepper motor used in the previous version. The company says this makes it "perfect for captuing sports and action, such as children and pets in motion."

Its 76mm (3") diameter is a fraction wider than the previous version and its 122mm (4.78" ) length is 5mm longer, but the G2 version is 1g lighter, at 575g (20.3oz). Both versions feature 18 elements arranged in 14 groups. It maintains the same 67mm filter thread.

The new, wider version of what Tamron calls its "all-in-one" zoom, will retail for around $899, around 23% more in money terms than the original launched in June 2020.

Tamron 25-200m F2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 specifications

Several of the previously reported Chinese lenses are now officially announced:

• Viltrox AF 85mm f/2 EVO FE
• Venus Optics Laowa AF 200mm f/2 AF FF
• Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.4 Pro
• 7Artisans AF 35mm f/1.8
• TTartisan AF 75mm f/2 (silver)
• Brightin Star 35mm f/0.95

Here is an updated list of the latest/upcoming/rumored Chinese lenses:

New AstrHori AF lens coming on October 22nd (check the official website for updates).

Light Lens Lab will soon release a new LLL 35mm f/1.4 Aspherical “11873” lens for M-mount.

Light Lens Lab is working on a new 300mm f/1.9 lens with an APO design.

 

New Yongnuo YN 33mm f/1.4 R DA DSM lens with a lock button.

New Yongnuo 18mm f/2.8 full-frame autofocus lens.

New Yongnuo YN 56mm f/1.4 R DA DSM lens.

New Lee Works 28mm/2.8 lens for Leica M mount is coming (minimum focusing distance less than 0.4m).

ZY Optics is expected to announce a new autofocus full-frame lens in the second half of the year.

New Dulens lens coming soon.

The post New AstrHori AF lens to be announced on October 22nd appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Ricoh announced the development of two new Ricoh GR IV camera models:

Ricoh GR IV HDF camera

• Technical specifications
• Expected to be release in late 2025 or ealry 2026
• 25.7 MP sensor
• 18mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent)
• HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter)
• ISO: 100 to 204800

Ricoh GR IV HDF camera development announced

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome camera

• Technical specifications
• Expected to be release in late 2025 or ealry 2026
• 25.7 MP sensor
• 18mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent)
• Monochrome sensor
• ISO: 160 to 409600

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome camera development announced

The post Ricoh announced the development of two new GR camera models: Ricoh GR IV HDF & Ricoh GR IV Monochrome appeared first on Photo Rumors.

The new 2025 5DayDeal photography bundle sale is ending tomorrow. As with previous years, you will get a package of different photography tools drastically reduced ($1,000+ worth of pro-level courses, tools, resources and creative assets for as little as $98). Several different bundles are available, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to charities:

The post The 2025 5DayDeal Photography Bundle sale is ending tomorrow appeared first on Photo Rumors.

The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome appears to have a white light ring around the power button, rather than the green one found on standard GR IV – that's attention to detail. Image: Ricoh

Ricoh has announced that it's developing two new variants of its GR IV photographer's compact: a monochrome edition that's a first for the series and a version that swaps the original's built-in ND filter for a highlight diffusion filter (HDF).

The two editions will be based on the original GR IV; that means they'll be in the same pocketable body with great controls and use a 18.3mm F2.8 (28mm, F4 equiv) lens*. The HDF version will use the same 26MP APS-C sensor with a bayer color filter, and the monochrome one has the same resolution and size, but drops the color filter.

From the front, the GR IV HDF is indistinguishable from the original GR IV and the Monochrome. Image: Ricoh

We enjoyed the original GR IV, which launched last month, so it's exciting to see Ricoh following it up so quickly. Neither version is especially surprising – Ricoh hinted at a monochrome GR when we interviewed its executives at CP+ last year, and there was an HDF model of the GR III – but both are interesting additions. There are a lot of fans of the soft, diffuse look that an HDF filter provides, and monochrome sensors have typically come with a 1EV noise improvement compared to their color counterparts.

Ricoh says the monochrome GR IV will have "Image Control options specialized for black and white photography," likely building on the already popular black and white modes on the original GR IV.

Sadly the GR mono doesn't share the beautiful 'Monochrome' lettering from the Pentax K-3 III Monochrome, Ricoh's first mono camera. Image: Ricoh

The company didn't provide exact release dates for either model, and says pricing is to be determined. However, its press releases say we can expect the HDF model in "winter 2025 or later," with the Monochrome one coming in "spring 2026."

* Those hoping for an 'x' variant with a 40mm equiv. lens will have to keep waiting, it seems.

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome press release

Ricoh GR IV HDF press release

Read our Ricoh GR IV review

The previously reported Viltrox AF 85mm f/2 EVO FE full-frame lens is now officially announced:

• B&H Photo
• Viltrox store

Additional information:

• 10 Elements in 8 Groups (2 ED & 2 HRI)
• 0.74m Minimum Object Distance
• 0.13× Maximum Magnification
• 340g Lightweight
• 69mm x 76mm Compact Size
• Accurate AF with STM Motor
• Customizable Fn Button, Click/De-Click Aperture Ring & AF/MF Switch
• Bright F2.0 Aperture
• Fast, Accurate STM Autofocus for Photo and Video
• Durable Build with Dust and Moisture Protection
• 58 mm Filter Thread and USB-C Firmware Upgrade Port

The post Viltrox AF 85mm f/2 EVO FE full-frame lens officially announced appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Photo: Viltrox

Viltrox has announced the first offering in a new lens lineup, the AF 85mm F2.0 Evo FE. The third-party lens maker is promising edge-to-edge clarity, fast autofocus, and a compact design from its latest prime lens for Sony full-frame cameras. All of that comes at a very budget-friendly price, too.

The AF 85mm F2.0 Evo features 10 elements in 8 groups. The lens design includes two HR and two ED lenses, which Viltrox says results in sharp edges and minimal chromatic aberration. It also says the lens will be sharp even wide open, but the best clarity is at F4 and F5.6. It offers a nine-blade aperture diaphragm.

Viltrox's latest lens can focus as close as 0.74m (2.43'). The autofocus system is powered by an STM motor, which Viltrox says is smooth and silent enough for video applications. It also supports eye and face detection.

Photo: Viltrox

There are useful on-body controls, including an aperture ring, AF/MF switch and customizable Fn button. The aperture ring can be clicked or de-clicked. Viltrox says it is its lightest 85mm lens yet, weighing 340g (11.99oz) and measuring 76mm long (2.99") with a diameter of 69mm (2.71"). It uses a 58mm filter thread. The company also built the lens with a rubber-sealed lens mount for added durability, and a USB-C port allows users to update firmware.

The company says the Evo Series is focused on the "Evolution of Essentials" and offers "finely tuned control, exceptional image quality, and effortless portability for professional use." It sits between the Air and Lab series, with upgraded optics and build compared to the Air lenses, though at a more affordable price than the Lab series.

The Viltrox AF 85mm F2.0 Evo FE is available as of today for $275.

Here is the first leaked picture of the rumored/upcoming Leica M EV1 camera:

The Leica M EV1 camera will be announced on October 23rd:

Leica M EV1 camera announcement next week (October 23)

⇒ Join the new Leica M EV1 Facebook Group ⇐

Additional information on the Leica M EV1 camera can be found here:

What’s next for Leica? (updated rumors recap: SL3 Reporter, Q3 Monochrom, M EV1, and more)

Leica M EV1 camera updates: 45g lighter, customizable FN button (frame selection lever)

The post First leaked picture of the rumored Leica M EV1 camera appeared first on Photo Rumors.

The previously reported Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens will be officially announced on October 23rd.

The official teaser is already out:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by FUJIFILM UK and Ireland (@fujifilmuk)

Fujifilm X-T30 III and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 Teaser – Coming October 23 at 1AM EST

Here is what to expect:

The latest Fuji rumors: Fujifilm X-T30 III & Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 coming In October

Fujifilm rumored to announce a new XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens

Yes, the Fujifilm X-T30 II camera is discontinued and it will be replaced in October with a new X-T30 III model

The Fujifilm X-T30II camera is rumored to be replaced in 2025

The post The Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens will be officially announced on October 23rd appeared first on Photo Rumors.

LightPix Labs announced a new FlashQ FM2 retro-inspired wireless TTL / manual camera flash. Pre-orders are now open at B&H Photo and Amazon.

Additional informataion:

• Available in black and silver
• Distinct boxy form factor of FM2 is inspired by the classic Contax TLA200.
• Housed in a premium aluminum alloy enclosure.
• Two different models are available:
  • FlashQ FM2 Manual Flash
  • FlashQ FM2 TTL Flash for Fujifilm
• FM2 Technical Specifications
• Guide Number 20m (at ISO 100)
• Focal length coverage: 32mm (on 35mm format)
• Manual flash power ratio control from 1/1 to 1/64
• (further supports 1/3 EV steps setting from 1/1 to 1/16)
• 2.4GHz low-power digital radio, 10 meters wireless operating range
• Other functions: S1 / S2 optical slave
• Two AA-size alkaline / rechargeable Ni-MH batteries
• Recycling time (1/1 full power output) : 4 sec. by Ni-MH batteries /
• 5 sec. by fresh alkaline batteries
• Number of flashes : 100 – 2000 flashes
• Flash color temperature : 5600K±200K (same as daylight)
• Dimensions : 60(W) x 52(H) x 50.5(D) mm
• Weight : 101g (without battery)
• Price: $79-$99

New LightPix Labs FlashQ FM2 TTL

The post LightPix Labs released a new FlashQ FM2 retro-inspired wireless TTL / manual camera flash appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Here is the latest Nikon news:

New Nikon rebates started in the US

Nikon now has eight DX (APS-C) Nikkor Z mirrorless lenses

Nikon products receive the 2025 Good Design Award

The Nikon ZR camera is now shipping, currently in stock in Canada

Interview with Nikon at the 2025 Salon de la Photo show in Paris

Nikon NX Tether version 2.4.0 released

New versions of NX Studio and Wireless Transmitter Utility released

Weekly Nikon news flash #857

2025 Nikon Small World competition winners announced

The post The latest Nikon news appeared first on Photo Rumors.

A huge silverback mountain gorilla weighing over 200kg (441lbs). Looking at it eye-to-eye, you simply can't deny we're related. Mgahinga National Park, Uganda. Canon EOS 5D IV + Canon 16–35mm F2.8 | F2.8 | 1/200 sec. | ISO 6400 Photo: Erez Marom

I've been passionate about primates ever since I started shooting wildlife. I think it's mainly because of how similar they are to us humans – and so different at the same time. If you've ever looked a gorilla in the eye, I'm sure you'd agree.

Primates are very diverse: from the pygmy mouse lemur weighing 30g (1oz) to gorillas weighing over 200kg (441lbs). From solitary male orangutans patrolling their jungle territories to 800-strong Gelada baboon troops. And from the millions of extremely adaptable Rhesus macaques to some extremely rare, critically endangered primates, which are the subject of this article.

A tiny mouse lemur, one of the smallest primates on Earth. Kirindy, Madagascar. Canon EOS R7 + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 | F7.1 | 1/500 sec. | ISO 1600

The Gelada baboons have the largest groups among all primates (excluding humans) – up to 800 strong. Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. Canon EOS 5D IV + Canon 70–300mm F4–5.6 | F5.6 | 1/2000 sec. | ISO 400 Photos: Erez Marom

Vietnam is home to some of the rarest primate species in the world. Primates whose habitats have been quietly destroyed by human expansion and whose numbers have been ravaged by hunting have, in recent decades, finally gotten formal government protection programs, and are slowly making a comeback from the brink of extinction.

Some species, such as the Cat Ba langur, had fewer than 50 individuals in the year 2000, which makes scientists doubtful whether they could ever form a viable population again. Cat Ba langurs currently number around 91 (mid-2025 estimate), which is an improvement but still not even close to anything resembling a healthy population.

Cat Ba langurs have astounding parkour abilities, which they use to traverse their near-vertical rocky home in Cat Ba Island. Seeing them jump is a fantastic experience. Note how I put an emphasis on showing the animal in its natural environment, partly because this environment is so unique and challenging. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F6.3 | 1/640 sec. | ISO 3200

Great care is needed to avoid falling. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F6.3 | 1/250 sec. | ISO 800

Like all langur species, Cat Ba langurs are highly social. They hug each other when meeting and keep in tight-knit family groups. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F6.3 | 1/1600 sec. | ISO 1600 Photos: Erez Marom

My love for primates, together with Vietnam's amazing biodiversity, has made me visit the country several times in the last decade for primate photography. My first love was perhaps the most easily-loved primate in Vietnam: the red-shanked douc, a species many would crown the most beautiful primate in the world. With its seven-colored body and sometimes comical behavior, one can easily understand why it's considered a national treasure.

Yes, this is a real animal, not a muppet. Son Tra Peninsula, Central Vietnam. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F8 | 1/400 sec. | ISO 640

The doucs often hang out close to their favorite foods, such as this fig tree. Son Tra Peninsula, Central Vietnam. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F5.6 | 1/400 sec. | ISO 1600

Doucs are a type of langur and are thus arboreal. They possess the ability to jump very long distances between tree branches. Son Tra Peninsula, Central Vietnam. Canon EOS R5 II + Canon RF 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 | F8 | 1/1600 sec. | ISO 3200

Chomp chomp! Son Tra Peninsula, Central Vietnam. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F8 | 1/400 sec. | ISO 640 Photos: Erez Marom

Then came other species. I especially enjoyed shooting the yellow-cheeked gibbons in the south of Vietnam, and the Delacour's langur and aforementioned Cat Ba langurs, close to Hanoi in the north. After shooting the species on my own, I guided a primate photography workshop earlier this year, which is where the real story begins.

The workshop was fun and productive. With wildlife, it's very common that you get better results with some species and worse with others, and luckily, I got better results with the species I didn't have great shots of, and lesser results with the species I already have good shots of in my portfolio.

The yellow-cheeked gibbons really played along this time. Gibbons are notoriously hard to shoot since they dwell high up in the trees, but this time we were fortunate to have them enveloped in beautiful foliage and huddled together in larger groups, which naturally made for nicer images. I intentionally overexposed some of the images to create a high-key look. Something about the very bright foliage encompasses the beauty of Asia in my eyes.

Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F10 | 1/250 sec. | ISO 3200

Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 | F7.1 | 1/320 sec. | ISO 800

Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 | F7.1 | 1/320 sec. | ISO 800

Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 | F7.1 | 1/320 sec. | ISO 800 Photos: Erez Marom

We then flew all the way up to Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, and drove to Van Long National Park to shoot the elusive Delacour's langur. With only several hundred individuals left in the entire species, this langur is extremely endangered and thus highly monitored and protected. It's also notoriously shy and skittish, making it tough to photograph. But miraculously, we got some (relatively) close-up action, and got to photograph the langur parkouring in its sharp, rocky habitat.

By the way, this langur has the longest tail of any langur species, pretty amazing. Oh, and how about those fancy pants?

A beautiful Delacour's langur perched high up on he cliffs of Van Long. Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F9 | 1/400 sec. | ISO 3200

Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F9 | 1/320 sec. | ISO 3200

Delacour's langur babies are surprisingly colored bright orange. As they grow, they gradually lose this coloration in favor of the monochrome-fancypants characterizing adults. Canon EOS 5D IV + Sigma 150–600mm F5–6.3 | F6.3 | 1/500 sec. | ISO 800 Photos: Erez Marom

Upon finishing the workshop, I said goodbye to the group and welcomed a friend who came for the experience that was about to follow. Ever since I shot my first Vietnamese primates, I was drawn to one very special species that eluded me again and again due to random constraints and problems. This time, I finally got the opportunity and did a week's trek to Khau Ca, a national park hidden deep in the forests of northern Vietnam, to shoot the ultra-rare Tonkin snub-nosed monkey.

One of only five snub-nosed monkey species in the world, the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey is the rarest and most definitely the hardest to see and photograph. It has black and white fur, a pink nose and lips, and blue patches around the eyes. It is found at elevations from 200 to 1,200 meters (700 to 3,900 feet) on fragmentary patches of forest on craggy limestone areas, which is one of the reasons it's so hard to find.

"The Tonkin snub-nosed monkey is the rarest and most definitely the hardest to see and photograph."

First described in 1912, the monkey was rediscovered in 1989. In 2008, fewer than 250 individuals were thought to exist. The species is the subject of very intense conservation efforts by Vietnamese authorities and international groups such as Fauna & Flora International, which has been focused on making an impact on the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey population, and has been working with local communities to spread awareness about the species and monitor its habitat.

Tucked away deep in the jungle and as shy as they come, this species requires a special photography permit and a very uncomfortable trek to be able to shoot it. Getting to base camp was a 2.5-hour climb, and from there it was the beginning of a week-long routine. Every day we hiked in a very challenging forest environment to a starting point from which we'd wait for word from the trackers, and if they got sight of the monkey, the real hiking would begin.

Balancing on sharp rocks and on fallen tree trunks, this hike was no picnic, especially if you're not too quick or agile, like me. Add to that the fact that the camp offered absolutely zero comfort (I'm talking no chairs, no tables, sleep on the floor type of camp), and we end up with the hardest trekking I've done in decades.

Sleeping arrangements at camp were so-so, but what a view!

The cabin in which we ate our meals. While uncomfortable for Westerners, the crew made us feel welcome and at home. A home without chairs, but still.

The A-Team of Tonkin snub-nosed monkey tracking. They are mostly local hunters who used to hunt the tonkin monkey, but were convinced to turn to conservation instead. They were good people, dedicated to their work and to preserving this beautiful, delicate species. Photos: Erez Marom

But then, while hiking for the fourth time, I noticed an increasing sense of excitement from our team. My guide triumphantly declared that they had sight of the monkeys. We started hiking again, climbing on steep rocks while trying to ignore the dangers, as our team jumped on the rocks like they were trampolines in an amusement park. With their kind help, I finally got to a viewpoint from where the group of monkeys could be seen.

A small group of 20-30 individuals, including adults, juveniles and tiny babies, emerged and began interacting and jumping between the trees. They were far away, and getting any closer to them would be far beyond my climbing and balancing abilities. I had to use the farthest telephoto setting I had: the Canon 100-500mm plus a 1.4x teleconverter.

Over about half an hour or so, I managed to get several family shots, a few nice action shots, some with multiple monkeys, mothers carrying babies and even an alpha male threatening us by exposing his teeth.

The shooting was extremely hard as I had to balance myself on sharp rocks throughout its duration. If I fell, the best result would be a broken leg, but the team took incredible care of me and kept me safe when jumping between the steep ledges. This was an adventure I will not be repeating anytime soon!

Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F10 | 1/640 sec. | ISO 800

Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys have incredible eyesight. While I found it hard even to spot them without my telephoto, they were fully aware of our presence and made sure we knew that they knew. Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F10 | 1/1250 sec. | ISO 1600

Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys have very furry tails in the colder season, which can be seen in this shot. Unfortunately, the background was not as good as I'd hoped, and going higher to get a better background was impossible due to the rough terrain. Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F10 | 1/1250 sec. | ISO 1600

One of the very last shots I took, when the group was racing to its next destination. Much better background here. Canon EOS R5 II + Canon 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 + 1.4× TC | F10 | 1/640 sec. | ISO 1600 Photos: Erez Marom

If you're very adventurous and have a good sense of balance, I recommend this experience. Shooting the Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys makes you part of a very exclusive club, as very few people venture there. That said, I must admit that there are trips that offer far better result/effort ratios: all of the other species mentioned above are far easier to get to and to shoot, and I highly recommend visiting Vietnam and witnessing their beauty for yourself.

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Erez Marom is a professional nature photographer, guide and traveller. You can follow Erez's work on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to his mailing list for updates.

Erez has recently published his first e-book, "Solving the Puzzle", thoroughly explaining his views about composition in landscape photography and beyond.

If you'd like to experience and shoot some of the world's most fascinating landscapes and wildlife with Erez as your guide, take a look at his unique photography workshops in Zambia, Greenland, Ethiopia, Colombia, Vietnam, Madagascar and more.

Selected Articles by Erez Marom:

• Lava Frenzy: Shooting Fagradalsfjall Volcano
• Behind the Shot: Tambora Sandwich
• Parallelism in Landscape Photography
• Black Hole Sun: Shooting the Total Solar Eclipse in Argentina
• Winds of Change: Shooting Changing landscapes
• Demon of the Deep: Shooting Kawah Ijen Volcano
• Shooting Kīlauea Volcano, Part 1: How to Melt a Drone
• Whatever It Doesn't Take

The 2024-2025 Nikon Film and Photo Contest winners have been announced, marking the 40th edition of the competition. This year's contest was based around the theme "Inspire" and drew submissions from 180 countries and regions around the world.

The contest features just four categories: Super-short Film, 5-Minute Film, Single Photo and Photo Story. There are Grand Prizes, Excellence Awards and Special Encouragement Awards for each category. Sarah Leen, Founder/Editor Visual Thinking Collective and Director of Photography Emerita of National Geographic Partners, was the lead judge this year, with separate judging panels for the photo and video sections of the contest.

The winning images and videos will be presented at various exhibitions and screenings at Nikon facilities in Kyobashi, Tokyo, and in several other cities worldwide. That includes an October 12-27 exhibition as part of the T3 Photo Festival Tokyo 2025 at Tokyo Square Garden, which feature a space inspired by the contest theme, "Inspire."

While this wasn't the first time the contest accepted video entries, the competition was rebranded this year to include a reference to video in the name. Nikon said the name change was "in response to the changing times, such as the diversification of media and the rise of personal video streaming devices." You can learn more about the contest and see more of the award winners at the Nikon Film and Photo Contest website. You can also see videos highlighting the judging process on the contest's YouTube channel.

Grand Prize: Single Photo Category

Title: Jonas

Photographer: Tiina Itkonen

Story: I photographed Jonas, an Inughuit boy, in Savissivik in North West Greenland. Savissivik is one of the most remote settlements in Greenland, over thousand kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. This far north the polar night lasts four months and midnight sun shines for four months as well.

Inughuit of northwestern Greenland are the northernmost indigenous people. Melting sea ice is challenging Inughuit's traditional way of life. In North West Greenland where farming is not possible, the hunting of seal, walrus and other Arctic animals has been a vital part of life and a main source of food for many households. In recent years hunting out on the sea ice has become more dangerous as ice is getting thinner and thinner. It’s possible this way of life will be lost forever.

Comment: I am honoured to receive Nikon award with the image I photographed in North West Greenland. Exactly thirty years ago I travelled to Greenland for the first time and since then I have travelled regularly there to photograph the polar landscape and its people. When visiting Savissivik I wanted to take time to get to know people. I spent 95 percent of my time socialising with the people and only 5 percent taking photographs. I am grateful for the hospitality of these people. I have been allowed to take part in their everyday life and always feel very much at home in this place.

Grand Prize: Photo Story Category

Title: Farewell-able

Photographer: Lei Yang

Story: We sometimes say "leave" or "farewell" when moving, reflecting our ties to people and places. Before leaving China, I photographed my hometown to understand what, for me, is farewell-able.

Comment: This series was made before I came to Japan. At that time, I parted with people, places, and versions of myself. I realized that some separations are simple, while others are filled with sorrow — those are "farewells." Farewell-able explores the emotional scale of goodbye through what I found hardest to release.
I’m deeply grateful to Nikon for selecting this work. It has allowed a personal farewell to be seen by more people.

Photo Competition: General Public Award

Title: I am Unstoppable!

Photographer: Liew Hong Hooi

Story: This spirit medium jumped through the blazing fire hoops as a demonstration of faith to inspire fellow devotees to follow suit as a form of ritual cleansing during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival.

Comment: I am very grateful and greatly honored that this photo has been chosen for this award. This photo is very meaningful to me as it inspired me to believe in myself and be bold to make the move forward as a photographer. Seeing that even surging fire is not an obstacle to some as long as one is willing to try, was the inspiration and reason I decided to take part in this prestigious award. Again, I want to thank Nikon for recognizing my photo and awarding it.

Grand Prize: Super-Short Film Category

Title: The small red, big blue

Artist: Hamed Nobari

Story: This work addresses environmental issues and marine life from a global perspective. Children love fish and the sea. I want to cherish those feelings and always remember to respect nature.

Comment: This award is definitely one of the most important awards for my filmmaking in my twenty years of artistic career. I am grateful to the Nikon Film and Photo Contest for this award and the opportunity it gave me.

"The Small Red, Big Blue" is one of my most important films, which addresses the issue of the environment and marine life with a global concept. I am very happy that my film has won an award at the Nikon Film and Photo Contest, and this is a great honor for me. I hope this film has a positive impact, among different cultures, to respect the environment.

Grand Prize: 5-Minute Film Category

Title: Finding Serenity

Artist: Ademola Falomo

Story: Finding Serenity was born during COVID lockdown when Yimika’s poem (Yimika is a producer and music artist from Lagos, Nigeria) moved me deeply. Inspired, I teamed up with friends to bring it to life, exploring peace in chaos and beauty in uncertainty.

Comment: I am deeply grateful for the acknowledgment of this small dream that has grown into something seen around the world. Created in Lagos, Nigeria, during troubling and uncertain times, this film is a celebration for me, a testament to turning a poem into a visual artifact. What once lived only in my mind now lives on screen, and that is a gift I will always cherish.

Excellence Award: Super-Short Film Category

Title: A trace in the wind

Artist: Soheil Masoumi

Story: The lonely old woman weaves her songs and lullabies layer by layer and turns them into a beautiful carpet.

Comment: Women in eastern Khorasan are vital keepers of ancient Iranian culture. Many old songs and lullabies are created while weaving carpets. Preserving and sharing this timeless heritage — belonging to all humanity — has always been my passion. Khāseh Borna is one such woman who, through her voice and the carpets she weaves, has kept this tradition alive for many years.

Excellence Award: Super-Short Film Category

Title: Shiuli - the one who still knows

Artist: Anindya Sundar Basu

Story:

Dawn climber, the Shiuli ascends.
His hands speak what ancestors knew.
While the village sleeps, sap flows.
From tree to sweet gold, dignity rises with each climb.

Comment: We’re honoured that "Shiuli" resonated with the jury. This story of a Shiuli’s quiet labour in rural Bengal is our tribute to unseen hands that rise before the sun, carrying the wisdom of the land. If it inspires even one person to see everyday lives with deeper respect, we’ve done justice to the theme.

This film is the result of long travel, early mornings, and the shared vision of a passionate team. Grateful to all who helped bring it to life.

Special Encouragement Award: Super-Short Film Category

Title: Beautiful struggle

Artist: Yutaka Maeomichi

Story: This film overlays the dynamic movements of tricking with the ephemeral beauty of flowers blooming amidst the cycle of nature. The fleeting brilliance shared by the momentary beauty in the execution of tricking techniques and the fragile life of flowers that endure harsh winters, take root, and bloom only briefly in spring before fading away is expressed through the medium of film.

Comment: Thank you very much for selecting my film for this prestigious award.

Based on the theme of the contest, "Inspire," I discovered a common brilliance between two distinct presences: the dynamic "tricking" born from the physical capabilities of human beings, and the "flowers" that live their lives to the fullest in the midst of silence.

The ephemeral beauty of techniques that are executed after rigorous training, and the fleeting lives of flowers that bloom only briefly after enduring a long winter — the creation of this film was inspired by the concentrated, momentary brilliance shared by both of these things.

I hope that through this work, viewers will notice the fleeting yet powerful moments hidden within daily life and find the inspiration to take a new step forward in their lives.

Special Encouragement Award: Super-Short Film Category

Title: 奔腾不息 (Keep on going)

Artist: Deshan Zhang

Story: In the bitter winter of minus 40 degrees, the herdsman mounts his Mongolian horse. They sweep across the land like the wind. When spring returns to the earth, the horses leap into icy rivers, sending sprays of water into the sky. They gallop on, never stopping - Inspiring every soul that dares to dream, driving ever forward. On this ancient land, they carve a legend into time.

Comment: I'm deeply grateful for the recognition from the competition organizers. This honor belongs to the vast grasslands, to the relentlessly galloping Mongolian horses, and to the tenacious horse herders. What I sought to capture with my camera was the unwavering vitality that endures amidst the wind and sand and the clatter of horse hooves, the spiritual backbone forged by humans and horses across the world. Photography is a record, but it's also a tribute. Thank you for allowing this touching moment to be seen by the world. In the future, I will continue to strive to live up to expectations and meet new challenges with even greater achievements, just as the competition theme, "Inspiration," inspires me to move forward.

Special Encouragement Award: Super-Short Film Category

Title: Desert Hours

Artist: Tracey Taylor

Overview: The Empty Quarter’s endless sands defy time. Wind carves its flow, light marks its stillness. This film unveils a desert vast and ancient, where time shifts with each gust across a boundless expanse.

Comment: The Empty Quarter offered an incredible backdrop to explore the relationship between time, space, and light. It’s a place that asks you to listen and I tried to translate that to film. I’m incredibly grateful to Nikon for recognizing a story told not through dialogue, but through presence. I’m so grateful it resonated.

Excellence Award: 5-Minute Film Category

Title: Sweet Little Girl

Artist: Lorenzo Morandi

Overview: During a piano practice session, Kazuyo Kotaka talks about her relationship with the audience, not only during concerts but also in everyday life.

Comment: I'm truly honored to receive this award for a project born from a profound harmony with its protagonist. Kazuyo opened up with sincerity and grace. My intention was to remove anything superfluous, so that her authentic, unfiltered emotions could quietly take center stage.

Excellence Award: 5-Minute Film Category

Title: Awaiting the Lightning Bolt

Artist: Marco Russo

Story: Renato, an eccentric Renaissance inventor, dares the impossible: capturing a lightning bolt in a jar! Amid storms and ambition, he chases the power of nature and love.

Comment: I made this film because I was chasing my personal lightning bolt, a journey that evolved into a reflection on loss and the lengths one would go to save a loved one. From that Renato was born: a stubborn inventor fighting nature and ignorance to protect those he loves. "Awaiting the Lightning Bolt" is a deeply personal story, yet one I hope will touch hearts universally.

Special Encouragement Award: 5-Minute Film Category

Title: Fluffy Ball

Artist: Ning Qian

Story: Little blue pieces of fluff fall off from a fuzzy sweater. A girl cannot get rid of them, they’re spreading across her body like an epidemic. Metaphorical story from the age of Covid.

Comment: Although the pandemic has gradually passed, some traces still remain on our bodies — like insects clinging to the skin. This short film captures a certain state of mind from that time. Looking at it now, it feels organic — an emotional state that can no longer be revisited.

Thank you to Nikon for recognizing this work. I look forward to creating more vibrant, life-filled films with Nikon in the future.

Special Encouragement Award: 5-Minute Film Category

Title: Whisper

Artist: John Donica

Story: A short conceptual/experimental film about a mother who lost her son. The red light is the only guide for her in her journey.

Comment: I'm delighted to be a winner of the Nikon Film and Photo Contest 2024-2025. I want to thank Eiji Mitsuta, an amazing composer who invited me to collaborate on this project.

And of course, heartfelt thanks to Shuna Iijima, the main character and a truly talented actress.

Special Encouragement Award: 5-Minute Film Category

Title: I Know Who I Am

Artist: Tyler Hicks

Story: This story follows a man’s attempt to reconnect upon finding himself lost – seeking guidance from nature and his human instincts.

Comment: Thank you so much for recognizing "I Know Who I Am." Creating this story was a testament to the power of self expression. Through this process we learned that sharing your story invites other people to connect, relate to it and, see themselves in it.

Squarehood offers several different lens hood solutions for Fuji, Leica, Nikon, and Ricoh cameras and lenses. Visit their website for more information and a list of products. Here are some of the Fuji lens hoods:

Next are a few examples of the Leica and Ricoh lens hoods:

New: Nikon Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 lens hoods by Squarehood

Leica camera and lens hoods by Squarehood

Ricoh GR lens hoods by Squarehood

The post Squarehood lens hood solutions for Fuji, Leica, Ricoh, and Nikon cameras and lenses appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Several of the previously reported Chinese lenses are now officially announced:

• Venus Optics Laowa AF 200mm f/2 AF FF
• Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.4 Pro
• 7Artisans AF 35mm f/1.8
• TTartisan AF 75mm f/2 (silver)
• Brightin Star 35mm f/0.95

Here is an updated list of the latest/upcoming/rumored Chinese lenses:

Viltrox AF 85mm f/2 EVO (part of the new EVO series of full-frame lenses) is coming on October 20th. Viltrox also has a new adapter with AI autofocus support called Nexus Focus (no release date yet).

Light Lens Lab will soon release a new LLL 35mm f/1.4 Aspherical “11873” lens for M-mount.

Light Lens Lab is working on a new 300mm f/1.9 lens with an APO design.

New Yongnuo 18mm f/2.8 full-frame autofocus lens.

New Yongnuo YN 33mm f/1.4 R DA DSM lens with a lock button.

New Yongnuo YN 56mm f/1.4 R DA DSM lens.

New Lee Works 28mm/2.8 lens for Leica M mount is coming (minimum focusing distance less than 0.4m).

ZY Optics is expected to announce a new autofocus full-frame lens in the second half of the year.

New Dulens lens coming soon.

The post Updated list of latest/upcoming/rumored Chinese lenses appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Blackmagic Design is rumored to announce a new URSA Cine 6K LF camera, featuring a 16-stop dynamic range RGBW sensor. The new model will utilize the same body as the URSA Cine 12K LF, simply replacing the RGBW sensor resolution with 6K and marketing it as a high frame rate variant. It will achieve 320fps in 6K Open Gate mode, 576fps in 4K Open Gate mode, and 896fps in 4K full-width 2.4:1 mode. The launch of the new Blackmagic Design URSA Cine 6K LF camera is rumored for April 2026. The upcoming URSA Cine 6K LF will not be a budget version of the current URSA Cine 12K LF.

The post Blackmagic Design is rumored to announce a new URSA Cine 6K LF camera appeared first on Photo Rumors.

Image: Honor

Chinese technology startup Honor has unveiled a CGI video teaser showcasing a concept smartphone with a gimbal-mounted camera. Honor has dubbed it the "Robot Phone" and says it will share additional details at Mobile World Congress in 2026.

Honor says the Robot Phone combines the mobility of a smartphone with the intelligence of an AI-driven robotic camera. As of now, the company has only revealed the CGI video, with no information on real hardware. It could simply represent conceptual exploration; however, it shows that Honor is thinking about novel solutions for smartphone photography and videography.

It's not the first phone to feature a pop-up camera, but it certainly is taking a different approach. Existing renditions of the idea, such as the OnePlus 7 Pro and Oppo Reno 2Z, feature a tiny pop-up selfie camera to do away with the notch on the display. The Robot Phone, however, is a much larger-looking camera mounted to a gimbal. It is drawing comparisons to the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, though integrated into a smartphone instead of functioning as a standalone device. Indeed, it looks remarkably similar to the popular vlogging camera and could be an interesting option for vloggers.

The teaser video also brings to mind characters like Wall-E. The video features Disney-like music and brings the camera to life, with the device poking out of a person's pocket while they walk around. The Robot Phone also screams while skydiving, nods when helping someone pick out an outfit and plays peekaboo to cheer up a baby.

Image: Honor

Although the phone doesn't exist yet, the concept video created by Honor illustrates its potential if engineering challenges don't crash into reality. The real challenge lies in fitting a 360-degree multi-axis rotating gimbal within the limited space of a camera bulge in the back of a compact mobile phone while still accommodating everything else.

Fitting this technology into a smartphone remains a tight squeeze considering motherboards, circuitry, and a battery large enough to last the day, as people have come to expect. However, if Honor succeeds, it could prove a useful device for content creators.

While the phone may not possess the Wall-E-like personality depicted in the video, it hints at exciting possibilities. We should know more soon since Honor aims to showcase something at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona next spring.

Until then, interested users can sign up for progress updates and even participate in early testing and evaluation on the Honor website.

Here is what else is new:

Additional information on the Realme and Ricoh GR partnership

The Ricoh GR IV camera wins the 2025 Good Design Award

The Yongnuo YN433 Micro Four Thirds video camera is now only $329

Leica Camera USA offers a change of leather service for Leica M, SL, Q, or CL cameras

New: weather-sealed Leica M-mount metal body caps available in 3 colors (*UPDATED*)

Fujifilm vs Nikon: Fujifilm Manager Interview – Fujifilm Wants To Usurp Nikon

“instax WIDE Evo” named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025

Fujifilm Announces the Next Generation of its instax mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera Series

FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 Video Production Camera Selected for Good Design Best 100

Sony Viewfinder Eye-Gaze AF Patent

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