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Jeff Bridges’ WideluxX panoramic film camera prototype revealed

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


Here are the latest updates on Jeff Bridges’ WideluxX camera and pictures of the first prototype camera (check the original Widelux camera on eBay):

Handscrafted WideluxX™ prototype 0001, ©SilverBridges GmbH

WideluxX™ prototype 0001, presented by Charys Schuler, ©SilverBridges GmbH

Charys Schuler and Marwan El Mozayen with WideluxX™ prototype 0001 and Widelux F8, ©SilverBridges GmbH

  • Introduction to the WideluxX™ Prototype: The WideluxX™ is a revived panoramic film camera developed by SilverBridges, a new company co-founded by SilvergrainClassics’ Editor-in-Chief Marwan El Mozayen, Developmental Editor Charys Schuler, and Jeff and Susan Bridges. It represents a significant milestone for analog photography as the first new handmade film camera designed to last generations.
  • Historical Context: The original Widelux factory burned down 20 years ago, nearly ending production of the iconic Panon Widelux F8. This revival project aims to preserve its legacy, bridging the history and future of panoramic analog photography.
  • Prototype Details: Prototype 0001 is a one-of-a-kind, handmade item built in Germany near Wetzlar. It retains the core DNA of the Panon Widelux F8 but includes numerous small improvements; however, it does not reflect the final production model’s appearance.
  • Development Process and Challenges: The project involved intense effort (“blood, sweat, and tears”) and old-school craftsmanship. An engineer hand-built the prototype, emphasizing artisanal manufacturing over mass production.
  • Unveiling and Presentation: The prototype was revealed via a special video at the International Association for Panoramic Photography convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The video features Jeff and Susan Bridges, with editing by Ethan Boehme and 16mm footage by Marwan El Mozayen.
  • Key Quotes:
    • Jeff & Susan Bridges: “Twenty years ago, the Widelux factory burned down, so we decided that rather than letting our favorite camera die, we’d bring her back to life. We’re keeping it old school; it’s a film camera handmade in Germany, built to last generations.”
    • Marwan El Mozayen and Charys Schuler: “There will be many small improvements, but its DNA is still the [Panon Widelux] F8. We see ourselves as a bridge between the history and the future of analog photography. It’s about the art and craft of camera manufacturing, and about giving a new generation of film photographers the tools to create with.”

Previous coverage of the WideluxX panoramic film camera:

WideluxX panoramic film camera update

Jeff Bridges is developing a new Widelux(X) panoramic film camera

Via Silvergrainclassics

The post Jeff Bridges’ WideluxX panoramic film camera prototype revealed appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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The latest updates on the Sigma Foveon X3 sensor with 1:1:1 technology

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin

Matt Granger published a new video interview with Sigma’s CEO Kazuto Yamaki – here are the latest updates on the Sigma Foveon X3 sensor with 1:1:1 technology:

Short recap

  • Sigma is “still working on the development of the sensor” [17:00].
  • Current status: The project is still in the “technology development” stage [17:11]. They have not yet started the design of the actual, final sensor [17:11].
  • Focus: The team is currently working on the “design of the pixel architecture” [17:20].
  • Delays: The project has been “a little bit delayed” [17:30] because as they test prototype wafers, they encounter “technical issues” [17:53].
  • Development team: The sensor development is now being handled primarily by the Sigma Japan engineering team [18:02].
  • Path forward: Mr. Yamaki mentions that the technical problems “have been narrowing down” [18:12]. Once the team is confident that the technology is ready, they will start the final sensor design and move toward production [18:23].

Long recap

Current Development Stage:

  • Sigma is still in the pixel architecture design phase and has not yet begun fabricating the full sensor prototype. This involves second-round test-wafer runs to evaluate small-scale prototypes with reduced pixel counts.
  • Yamaki emphasizes that Sigma has “never designed a sensor by ourselves before,” highlighting the in-house challenges since acquiring Foveon in 2008. Previous Foveon sensors were co-developed, but this full-frame version is a from-scratch effort.

Technical Innovations and Improvements:

  • The new sensor aims for a full-frame (35mm) format with a stacked back-side illuminated (BSI) structure and on-chip phase-detect autofocus—features absent in older Foveon designs like the SD1 Merrill (2011) or Quattro series (2014-2016).
  • It retains the X3 1:1:1 layered architecture (equal pixel counts per RGB layer, unlike the 1:1:4 ratio in Quattro sensors), promising better dynamic range, color fidelity, and resolution (potentially 60MP effective).
  • Yamaki discusses crosstalk between RGB layers as a unique strength, enabling “distinct color gradation” that outperforms Bayer sensors in studio, landscape, and portrait work.

Challenges and Delays:

  • Development, first teased in 2018, has faced repeated setbacks, including ending a partnership with a sensor manufacturer, requiring a restart. As of October 2025, it’s “almost at the final stage of technology development” but not ready for mass production.
  • Key hurdles include power consumption, heat dissipation (due to three analog-to-digital converters), and achieving “perfect” pixel performance. Yamaki states they won’t proceed to production until issues are fully resolved: “The Foveon chip will appear when the pixel is perfect.”
  • No video capabilities are mentioned for the initial release, as early Foveon sensors struggled with even low-res video (e.g., 480p on DP series).

Future Outlook and Commitment:

  • Sigma remains dedicated, viewing Foveon as a “niche but valuable” technology for enthusiasts seeking ultimate image quality over high-volume sales. It could integrate into future Sigma fp mirrorless cameras (e.g., a “fp X3” variant).
  • Yamaki expresses optimism: “Technical problems have been narrowing down,” and once confident, they’ll move to full sensor design and production. However, no timeline is given—explicitly not in 2025, and possibly 2026 or later.
  • The video touches on broader philosophy: Sigma’s “beautiful foolishness” in pursuing innovative, non-mainstream tech like Foveon, despite market trends favoring Sony/ Canon sensors.

Sigma still committed to Foveon, they are now almost at the final stage of technology development

Sigma CEO: the Foveon X3 full-frame mirrorless camera will not be coming this year (2025)

The post The latest updates on the Sigma Foveon X3 sensor with 1:1:1 technology appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Act fast: you can now pre-order the Ricoh GR IV camera at Amazon

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


It seems that Amazon is getting another shipment of Ricoh GR IV cameras because they just opened their orders (act fast, they sold out quickly last time):


The expected shipping is November 12 – December 6. If you cannot wait that long, the Ricoh GR IV camera is now in stock in Canada at Camera Canada, and you can order one from the US without paying any taxes and with minimal import duties:

The new Ricoh GR IV camera is in stock in Canada and you can order one from the US

Check also availability at:


Via PentaxRumors

The post Act fast: you can now pre-order the Ricoh GR IV camera at Amazon appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Canon’s RF/EF lens production exceeds 170 million units

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


Canon celebrates another milestone – the RF/EF lens production exceeds 170 million units:

Canon’s RF/EF lens production exceeds 170 million units, extending its world record in interchangeable lens production

TOKYO, October 22, 2025—Canon Inc. announced today that, in October 2025, Canon reached a historic milestone of producing a cumulative total of 170 million RF and EF interchangeable lenses for its EOS series, extending its world record1 for the highest number of interchangeable camera lenses ever produced.

The EF lens was introduced in 1987 as the dedicated lens system for Canon’s EOS autofocus single-lens reflex film camera, debuting simultaneously with the EOS system itself. Since their inception, EF lenses have led the industry by incorporating a series of world-first2 technologies, including the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, and a multilayered Diffractive Optical (DO) element, and have undergone numerous evolutions.

In 2018, Canon launched the RF lens series, designed for the EOS R mirrorless camera system, which features a large aperture, short back focus, and high-speed communication system to deliver even higher image quality. The RF and EF lens series lineup now includes a total of 108 models3, covering a wide range of focal lengths4 from ultra-wide 10mm to super-telephoto 1200mm. The series also includes the world’s first VR lens5, lenses with built-in power zoom suited for video shooting, and even those compatible with power zoom adapters—expanding the scope of creative expression and meeting the diverse needs of users for both still photography and video.

EF lens production began at Canon’s Utsunomiya Plant in 1987. Since then, both EF and RF lenses have gained strong support from a wide range of users—from beginners to professionals—leading to steady growth in production volume. Today, Canon manufactures lenses at five sites: Utsunomiya Plant; Canon Inc., Taiwan; Canon Opto (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.; Oita Canon Inc.; and Miyazaki Canon Inc. Milestones include 10 million units produced by 1995 and 50 million by 2009. Then in 2014, Canon became the first company in the world to reach 100 million interchangeable camera lenses produced. In October 2025, the company reached 170 million units, leading to the achievement of this world record. The 170 millionth lens produced was the RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z.

Canon has maintained the No.16 global market share for digital interchangeable-lens cameras for 22 consecutive years since 2003. Moving forward, Canon will continue to refine its proprietary imaging technologies and further strengthen and expand its lens lineup, pioneering new imaging possibilities and contributing to the continued evolution of photographic and video culture.

  • 1

    Includes EF, EF-S, EF-M, EF Cinema, RF, RF-S, and RF Cinema lenses and extenders. As of October 21, 2025 (according to a survey by Canon)

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    Among SLR cameras (according to a survey by Canon)

  • 3

    Number of products sold as of October 22, 2025 (including extenders). The number of lens models for sale is different according to market figures.

  • 4

    Focal length is 5.2mm to 1200mm when including VR lenses

  • 5

    An interchangeable digital camera lens that enables VR footage with a single camera. Among interchangeable lens digital cameras released as of October 5, 2021 (according to a survey by Canon)

  • 6

    Refers to unit share (according to a survey by Canon)

The post Canon’s RF/EF lens production exceeds 170 million units appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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The rumored Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens are now officially announced

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


The previously rumored Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens are now officially announced:

The Fujifilm X-T30 III keeps the compact and stylish design we love from this series, but packs it full of upgrades over its predecessor. This version features Fujifilm’s X-Processor 5, boosting speed and AF performance, and this is accompanied by a new dedicated Film Simulation dial letting you switch between Fujifilm’s iconic colour profiles. Add in 6.2K video and AI subject detection, and this iteration is faster and smarter than ever.
  • 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4
  • Fujifilm’s X-Processor 5
  • Dedicated Film Simulation dial
  • 6.2K/29.97p with AI subject detection
  • Tactile dials & touchscreen LCD
  • Enhanced FUJIFILM XApp compatibility
The Fujifilm XC 13-33mm f3.5-6.3 OIS offers a compact and lightweight profile with a 20-50mm full-frame equivalent range for travel and everyday photography. With a unique retractable structure, it features an advanced optical construction of 10 elements in 9 groups and up to 4 stops of Optical Image Stabilisation for steady handheld shots. With a 20cm minimum focus distance, it captures detailed close-ups while maintaining sharpness across the frame.

The post The rumored Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens are now officially announced appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens leak ahead of the official announcement

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin

The previously rumored Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens leak ahead of the official announcement – here are the basic specifications:

  • Price: £799
  • Fourth-generation sensor (26 MP)
  • Fifth-generation image processor
  • Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 OIS lens:
    • Optical structure: 9 groups 10 elements (including 4 aspherical surfaces, 3ED)
    • Aperture blades: 9
    • Closest focusing distance: 20 cm
    • Filter diameter: ø49mm
    • Optical image stabilization: 4 stops
    • Size: Φ61.9mm x 37.5mm
    • Weight: 125g

Update – officially announced now:

The rumored Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens are now officially announced

The post Fujifilm X-T30 III camera and Fujinon XC 13-33mm f/3.5-6.3 lens leak ahead of the official announcement appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Leica M EV1 camera with EVF announcement confirmed for tomorrow

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


The previously rumored Leica M EV1 camera with EVF is confirmed to be announed tomorrow, October 23rd.

Here are the latest M EV1 leaks and rumors:


 
 

  • New Built-in EVF
    • 0.5 inch & 5.76 MP
    • 0.76x Magnification
    • Focus aids
    • Diopter compensation
  • New FN-Button
    • Frame selection lever with dual FN functionality for the viewfinder
  • Puristic Design
    • Clean front without a rangefinder window
    • Diamond pattern leatherette
  • Leica Content Credentials
    • Ensure authenticity of digital images
  • 60/36/18 Megapixel
    • Full-frame BSI image sensor with triple resolution technology
  • Maestro III Image Processor
    • 64GB Internal memory
    • Made in Germany
  • Price
    • It should be cheaper than the Leica M11
    • Price in EU incl VAT: €7,950 (around $9,300)
    • Price in Hong Kong: $75,000 HKD (around $9,600)
    • With the new Trump tariffs, the price in the US could be over $10k
  • Other
    • Not sure if it will be available in silver
    • The Leica M EV1 is rumored to be officially announced on October 23rd 2025 (±1 day)
    • Shipping will start in November
    • The camera is already in production

⇒ Join the new Leica M EV1 Facebook Group ⇐

Via LeicaRumors

The post Leica M EV1 camera with EVF announcement confirmed for tomorrow appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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The new Ricoh GR IV camera is in stock in Canada and you can order one from the US

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin

The new Ricoh GR IV camera is now in stock in Canada at Camera Canada, and you can order one from the US without paying any taxes and with minimal import duties.


The price of the GR IV in Canada is $1,899 CAD (≈ $1,386 USD). In the US, the GR IV is priced at $1,496.95. The general duty rate on imports from Canada is 0% to 3.5%. Essentially, the savings from the currency exchange rate should cover the import duties.

Check also GR IV availability at:

Previous Ricoh GR IV coverage can be found here.

Ricoh GR IV camera accessories

Via PentaxRumors

The post The new Ricoh GR IV camera is in stock in Canada and you can order one from the US appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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ON1 Photo RAW 2026 now available

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


The new ON1 Photo RAW 2026 is now available with smarter AI tools, faster workflows, and powerful new features (see pricing). Here is what’s new:

  • Smarter, faster AI masking and selection tools
  • Enhanced raw processing for breathtaking image quality
  • Powerful new effects and workflow optimizations
  • A beautifully refined interface that makes editing intuitive and fun
  • The brand-new Double Exposure filter makes it easier than ever to craft stunning, layered looks in just seconds
  • Stunning Effects & Portrait AI
  • Built-in Resize AI 2026 for razor-sharp enlargements
  • Works standalone or as a plug-in for Lightroom & Photoshop
  • 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
  • Extras: Negative Mode for film scans, grayscale support, improved perspective tools, flexible UI

The post ON1 Photo RAW 2026 now available appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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New AstrHori AF lens to be announced on October 22nd

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin

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

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.

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

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.

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

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


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.

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The 2025 5DayDeal Photography Bundle sale is ending today

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


The new 2025 5DayDeal photography bundle sale is ending today. 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 today appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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