Topaz Labs announced Bloom - a new powerful creative tool for upscaling AI-generated images:
Upscale AI images up to 8x (64MP max output), intelligently add detail, and get 4 variations—complete with optional influence prompting.
Choose from five creativity modes that add minor details to original inputs or transform entire structures at higher levels.
Developed and fine-tuned to upscale AI images, where our other best-in-class upscaling models are trained and designed for photographs and similar images.
Unlimited renders for paid accounts, which include free trials as well as access to our other Web App image tools.
Powerful Creative Upscaling for AI Generated Images
Bloom is the most powerful creative upscaler on the market, and it is built from the ground-up for enhancing AI generated images, and for creators using AI content in their creative workflows.
Using cutting-edge AI models developed in-house by our team of PhD researchers, Bloom offers “creative upscaling” that not only upscales images up to 8x but intelligently adds greater detail and texture that is relevant to the prompt.
You don’t need creative upscaling for most photos - but the results are absolutely unbelievable on AI generated images:
Maybe you’re curious about creative upscaling though in general? Let’s talk about it!
What images work best on Bloom?
Bloom is built for upscaling and adding detail to AI generated images, and you’re going to get the best results using Bloom for this use case.
In a typical creative workflow, Bloom is primarily used as a post-processing and enhancement tool. Its application is most effective after the initial creation or generation of an image.
The types of images that benefit most from Bloom’s creative upscaling include a diverse range of digital art styles:
Images generated by AI models: Content produced by text-to-image generators and other AI art platforms. Works great on images from ChatGPT, Midjourney, Flux, and more.
Digital paintings and illustrations: Artwork created using digital painting software.
Concept art: Visual development pieces for games, films, and other media.
Character designs: Detailed representations of characters in various artistic styles.
Abstract digital art: Non-representational digital creations.
Currently, Bloom is compatible with PNG and JPG file formats.
Above: Not the best upscale, done using a traditional upscaling model. Notice the unrealistic textures and lack of detail. See the limitation?
The original image is lacking the true detail density required to get a great result. Creative Upscaling is a technique that gives our AI models creative license to add more detail and texture back into the image, increasing detail density to get a great result – which looks much more realistic:
Above: Creative upscale using Bloom. Look at the vastly improved texture and details on the clothes here. A few extra buttons too, which probably should have been there.
Meet the Godox V480: a sleek GN 50 on camera flash that brings studio quality light wherever you shoot. Powered by a high capacity Li-ion battery delivering up to 650 fullpower flashes with a rapid 1.7 s recycle, it offers both a responsive touchscreen and tactile buttons for intuitive control. With High speed sync up to 1/8 000 s, an integrated 2.4 GHz X wireless system, and a 10 level LED modeling lamp, the V480 is the compact lighting solution for any creative pursuit.
1. Intuitive Touchscreen & Buttons
The V480’s 2.0″ color touchscreen and tactile buttons work seamlessly together to deliver fast, precise adjustments. Tap, swipe, or press buttons to navigate menus effortlessly, allowing you to change settings quickly without interrupting your workflow.
2. Smart Distance Readout
Say goodbye to exposure guesswork. The V480’s display shows real-time effective flash range, so you’ll know instantly if your subject is within optimal reach—ideal for tight spaces, bounce applications, or fast-paced events.
3. Sender & Receiver Functionality
The built-in Godox 2.4 GHz X wireless system lets the V480 act as both sender and receiver across 32 channels up to 100 m away. Control multiple flashes directly from the unit—no external triggers required.
4. Pro-Level Flash Modes
V480 gives you full creative control with TTL, Manual, Multi mode, and High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000 s. Fine-tune your lighting with Flash Exposure Compensation, and choose between Front/Rear-Curtain Sync for dynamic motion effects. A versatile tool built for professional results.
*1/80000s with Sony cameras equipped with global shutter.
5. Lightweight Portability
Weighing just 282 g (361 g with battery), the V480 fits comfortably in your hand and slips into any camera bag. Stay lightweight on location while enjoying powerful flash performance.
6. 650 Full-Power Flashes
A 7.2 V/2200 mAh rechargeable battery delivers up to 650 full-power flashes and recycles in just 1.7 s. USB-C charging lets you top up between sessions so you can keep shooting all day.
7. 10-Level Modeling Lamp
Preview exactly how your flash will shape shadows and highlights with a built-in LED lamp offering ten brightness levels. Ideal for pre-visualizing light direction and intensity, it lets you fine-tune your setup before firing the main flash.
8. Flexible Bounce Head
Tilt from –7° to 120° and swivel a full 330° for precise bounce angles. Use walls, ceilings, or floors to craft soft, natural fill or striking side light, adapting instantly to any shooting environment.
9. Creative Light Shapers
Slide in the catchlight panel for crisp, sparkling eyes or snap on the wide-angle diffuser to soften and broaden coverage for groups or environmental portraits. These built-in tools let you shape your light instantly—no extra attachments required.
10. Extensive Accessory Compatibility
Expand your creative toolkit with ease: add Bowens-mount softboxes, reflectors, and more using the S2 bracket. One flash, endless possibilities.
What’s in the Box
Flash Body×1
Storage Bag×1
Diffuser×1
Adapter×1
Mini Stand×1
Lithium Battery×1
USB-C Charging Cable×1
Tech Specs
Model
V480C
V480S
V480N
V480 F
V480 O
Global Shutter Sync Shooting
/
Provided
/
/
/
Radio Wireless Global Shutter Sync
/
Provided
/
/
/
Guide Number(1/1 step, 105mm focal length)
Approx. GN50 (ISO 100, in meters)
Flash Coverage
Auto zoom (flash coverage is set automatically to match the lens focal length and image size)
Manual zoom(24-105mm)
Flash Head Angle
Swinging/tilting flash head (bounce flash): 0 to 330° horizontally and -7° to 120° vertically
Flash Duration (t0.1)
1/600s-1/20000s
Exposure Control
Exposure Control System
TTL auto flash and manual flash
Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC)
±3 steps with 1/3 increment each step
Sync Mode
High-speed sync (up to 1/8000 seconds,or 1/80000 seconds with Sony cameras equipped with global shutter), first-curtain sync,and second-curtain sync
Multi Flash
Provided (up to 100 times, 100Hz)
Wireless Flash (Radio 2.4G Transmission)
Wireless Function
Sender, Receiver
Sender Groups
A, B, C, D, E (V480C)
M, A, B, C, D (V480 S/ V480 N/ V480 F/ V480 O)
Receiver Groups
A, B, C, D, E
Transmission Range (approx.)
100m
Channels
32: 01~32
ID
OFF/01~99
LED Modeling Lamp
Power
2W
Color Temperature
5300K±300K
Power Supply
Lithium Battery
7.2V/2200mAh
Recycle Time
Approx. 1.7 seconds. LED indicator will light up when the flash is ready.
New DxO Modules enhance the latest gear from Canon, Nikon, Leica, Sigma, and Zeiss.
With this update, DxO offers image quality improvements for more than 104,000 camera and lens combinations.
DxO is proud to announce immediate support for the newest cameras and lenses from many of the industry’s leading manufacturers. DxO Modules are now available for Canon’s latest vlogging camera, the EOS R50 V, and Nikon’s newest full-frame mirrorless camera, the Z5 II.
In addition, a host of lenses are now included, covering new optics from Canon, Leica, Nikon, Sigma, and Zeiss. Highlights include Canon’s affordable wide-angle zoom for APS-C cameras, the RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3, and Nikon’s new fast prime, the Nikkor Z 35mm F1.2 S.
The update also includes five lenses from Sigma — four for Canon RF-S mount and one for L-mount — and Leica’s much-anticipated refresh of the Summilux-M 50mm F1.4. Rounding off the list is the Zeiss Otus 50mm F1.4 for both Canon RF and Nikon Z mounts.
Each DxO Module is developed in DxO’s exclusive laboratory as a custom mathematical profile for a specific camera and lens. By precisely analyzing every focal length, focus distance, and aperture setting, DxO extracts the full potential of each setup to deliver exceptional image quality.
Viltrox will officially announce the previously reported Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro lens or Sony E-mount next week on June 16th for the 2025 Bild Expo (other mounts will be released later). Here are the details:
15 elements in 11 groups, including 3 ED, 9 high-refractive elements
The Luminar Neo summer sale, where you can get up to 75% off, will end in 72 hours. Here’s the offer breakdown:
Cross-device Subscription (desktop & mobile) – only $99
Includes Luminar Neo desktop + Luminar Mobile + 100 creative add-ons for free + Neo video course worth $79
Luminar Neo Lifetime (desktop only) – only $119
Includes 100 creative add-ons + Neo video course worth $79 + 1 year of Generative AI tools for free
Cross-device Lifetime (desktop & mobile) – only $159
Includes Luminar Neo desktop + Luminar Mobile + 100 creative add-ons + Neo video course worth $79 + 1 year of Generative AI tools for free
Luminar Neo + Luminar Mobile in one pack – the perfect creative toolkit!
Now available on Android, too – reach out to me if you’d like access.
The previously rumored Fujifilm X-E5 camera and Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 WR pancake lens, and kits with both the camera and lens, are now officially announced and available to preorder:
The X-E5 is fitted with a 40 MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor, the latest X-Processor 5, and marks the first X-E series camera to feature in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) with up to 7 stops of compensation. It also offers advanced autofocus performance for both stills and video, a base ISO of 125, and impressive video capabilities up to 6.2K/30p, all backed by an improved IBIS algorithm. On top of this Fujifilm has also added a film simulation dial and a new Surround View function for the viewfinder.
The new Rollei lens appears to be a rebadged Chinese lens. Viltrox, 7arrtisans, and I am sure a few other brands have a similar lens already. The new Rollei 85mm f/1.8 appears to be very similar to the 7artisans 85mm f/1.8 lens. DJ Optical designs all Chinese lenses, they just use different branding for marketing purposes. DJ Optical is a huge state-owned enterprise in China with a very strong optical technology design department and appropriate production lines. They also have military contracts.
Additional information:
Light intensity:
F/1.8
Close-up:
0.85 m
Full format:
Yes
Autofocus:
Yes
Compatible cameras:
Sony E-Systems
Connection:
Sony E-Mount
Filter thread:
62 mm
EXIF data:
Yes
Connections:
USB-C for firmware updates
Lenses (group/lenses):
7/10
Smallest aperture:
16
Aperture blades:
11
Mass:
9.6 x 8 x 8 cm
Weight:
477 g
Translated press release:
Rollei ushers in a new era with its first proprietary lens: the Rollei AF 85 mm F/1.8 for Sony FE and Nikon Z. With the new VAF (Full-Frame Autofocus) series, the long-established manufacturer is expanding its portfolio to include proprietary lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The series launches with an 85-millimeter portrait lens . It boasts an impressive F/1.8 aperture, precise STM autofocus , and a robust all-metal housing —developed for discerning photographers and videographers who expect the highest image quality at an attractive price.
Norderstedt, June 11, 2025. Rollei is writing a new chapter in its rich history and presenting its first proprietary lens: the Rollei AF 85 mm F/1.8 , available for Sony FE and Nikon Z mounts . With the introduction of the VAF (Full-Frame Autofocus) series, the company is expanding its product portfolio with its first proprietary lenses specifically developed for modern mirrorless full-frame cameras . The 85-millimeter portrait lens combines proven Rollei quality with state-of-the-art technology and sets new standards in image quality and user-friendliness.
The 85-millimeter focal length is ideal for portrait photography , delivering natural proportions without distortion. The Rollei AF 85 mm F/1.8 makes optimal use of this classic focal length and, thanks to its F/1.8 aperture, delivers razor-sharp results even at wide open aperture . The 11 aperture blades create a creamy, perfectly round bokeh that elegantly separates the main subject from the background and enables professional portraits with impressive depth of field.
The innovative HFT-X (High Fidelity Transfer) coating significantly reduces ghosting and flare while preserving natural contrast. Combined with the high-quality glass selection of 10 elements in 7 groups, including two ED and two HR lenses , the lens ensures high edge sharpness and minimizes chromatic aberrations for brilliant image quality right to the corners .
The precise STM (stepping motor) autofocus operates quickly and virtually silently , which is particularly beneficial for video recording. Face and eye tracking are fully supported , making the lens an ideal choice for both photography and videography. The minimum focusing distance of 0.85 meters at a maximum magnification of 0.12× also enables detailed close-up shots.
Despite its weight, the Rollei AF 85 mm F/1.8 weighs just 477 grams and sits perfectly balanced in the hand. Intuitive operation is ensured by a high-quality metal aperture ring (Sony FE version only), an AF/MF switch , and a freely assignable FN button . The linear aperture ring on the Sony version enables smooth, silent aperture adjustments for professional video recordings.
Both lenses feature a precise metal mount (E-mount and Z-mount, respectively) with full EXIF data transfer and a USB-C firmware port for fast updates in just 30 seconds. The 62mm filter thread is compatible with all common filters from the company.
The Rollei AF 85 mm F/1.8 for Sony FE and Nikon Z is now available for pre-order for €299 (RRP €349) at Foto Erhardt.
Manfrotto announced a new ONE all-in-one hybrid tripod system. The new model has an intuitive and seamless modular design with practical features such as its Q90 rotating column, levelling mechanism, sliding column, and Xchange quickly swap system. Pre-orders are now open at:
TTartisan announced a new M01 on-camera film canister flash and J01 wireless flash trigger priced at $29+$10 ($39 for both). Orders are now open at Amazon and TTartisan's website.
The new flash works with most DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and compact cameras:
The Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens is remarkably compact. This portable design makes it one of the smallest and lightest full-frame fisheye zoom lenses with a constant f/2.8 aperture, ideal for travel, adventure, and handheld shooting. Perfect for landscape photographers, vloggers, and drone-based creators, this lens delivers bold fisheye visuals without the bulk, enhancing mobility and convenience for on-the-go content creation.
Dual Fisheye Effect
The Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens delivers a versatile dual fisheye effect, seamlessly transitioning between two distinct visual styles on full-frame cameras. At the 8mm end, the lens produces a circular fisheye effect, capturing a 180° field of view. At the 15mm end, it transitions to a full-frame rectangular fisheye effect, filling the entire sensor with the characteristic fisheye distortion. The zoom capability allows creators to switch between these effects without changing lenses, enhancing flexibility for photography and videography applications.
Max. 180° circular fisheye
The Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens offers an extra-wide view, delivering a sweeping 180° angle of view at its 8mm focal length on full-frame cameras. This expansive perspective captures vast scenes in a single frame, producing a dramatic circular fisheye effect with pronounced curvature, ideal for creative effects, astrophotography, and 360° panoramas.
Diagonal fisheye
As the lens zooms to 15mm, the angle of view narrows slightly, filling the full-frame sensor with a diagonal fisheye image that retains a wide, distorted perspective. Ideal for immersive landscapes, astrophotography,
Constant Fast Aperture
The Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens boasts a constant T2.9 aperture throughout its zoom range, ensuring consistent exposure and depth of field control. This fast aperture excels in low-light situations, delivering outstanding performance for nighttime shoots or dimly lit environments, while also providing beautiful bokeh for creative flexibility in crafting immersive fisheye visuals.
Close Focusing Distance
The Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens features a minimum focusing distance of 16cm (6.3”), enabling photographers and videographers to capture subjects at close range with striking visual impact. This close focusing capability enhances the lens’s fisheye distortion, delivering an exaggerated point of view (POV). Additionally, the close focus mimics a bugeye effect, creating a playful, almost cartoonish distortion where subjects appear disproportionately large, adding a unique and bold aesthetic to images and videos.
Full Frame Coverage
The Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens offers full-frame coverage, unlocking the full potential of high-resolution cameras. It delivers a true 180° circular fisheye effect at 8mm and a rectangular fisheye at 15mm, ensuring edge-to-edge clarity and maximum angle of view without cropping.