Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Sunrise From Mt. Pilchuck by Jim Dockery

• Nature & Wildlife:
Katmai Bears; Aug23 by DivineFocus

• People Photography:
Red Dress Series by friscoron

This Sigma lens, designed for FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras, offers a versatile 150-600mm equivalent focal length range. It features advanced optics, including FLD and SLD elements to reduce chromatic aberrations.

While it was originally made for full-frame cameras, the electronics and mount were actually tweaked to fit Fuji X-mount APS-C cameras. This makes it a more affordable, compact, and lighter option compared to the FUJIFILM XF 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6 R lens, with a weight difference of 1375g versus 1135g.

Optical image stabilization compensates for camera shake, and quick, quiet autofocus is powered by a stepping motor. Close-up shooting is possible with a minimum focusing distance of 3.7' at 100mm and 5.2' at 400mm (0.24x magnification), with smooth and pleasing background blur even stopped down thanks to a 9-blade diaphragm.

Customizable buttons and a focus limiter switch enhance shooting convenience. The lens is built with a durable brass bayonet, is dust- and splash-resistant, and offers tripod compatibility with an optional socket and protective cover.

Now in stock at B&H Photo ($949)


Main Specs:

1. Focal Length 100 to 400mm
   
2. Maximum Aperture f/5 to 6.3
   
3. Lens Mount FUJIFILM X
   
4. Filter Size 67 mm
   
5. Angle of View 24.4° to 6.2°
   
6. Minimum Focus Distance 3.61' / 1.1 m
   
7. Maximum Magnification 0.24x
   
8. Optical Design 22 Elements in 16 Groups
   
9. Diaphragm Blades 9, Rounded
   
10. Focus Type Autofocus
    
11. Image Stabilization Yes
    
12. Tripod Collar Removable and Rotating (Optional)
    
13. Dimensions (ø x L) 3.39 x 7.76" / 86 x 197.2 mm
    
14. Length at Maximum Extension 10.92" / 277.3 mm
    
15. Weight 2.5 lb / 1135 g

Crafted for contemporary content creators, the Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera provides top-notch full-frame image quality and the capability for UHD 4K video recording, all encased in a stylishly retro-designed camera body. It excels in capturing stunning images in low-light conditions, boasts rapid and precise autofocus, incorporates an advanced 8-stop 5-axis vibration reduction system, utilizes high-resolution pixel-shift shooting technology, and features a spacious 3.2" vari-angle touchscreen. This advanced camera is tailored to meet all your photography and video requirements.

Pre-order from B&H Photo:

Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera

Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera with 24-70mm f/4 Lens

Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera with 40mm Lens

Nikon MH-34 Battery Charger

B&H Photo Article about the new Nikon Zf


Main Specifications:

1. Full-frame 24.5-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor paired with the new EXPEED 7 Processing engine for exceptional fidelity and image quality, plus impressive processing power.
   
2. Outstanding AF tracking capabilities, including 3D-tracking mode for photographers and dedicated Subject-tracking AF in video mode.
   
3. Expanded Auto-area AF with up to 299 focus points for improved focus acquisition, especially with distant or moving subjects.
   
4. First full-frame Z-series mirrorless camera with a versatile vari-angle touchscreen.
   
5. Starlight view mode enhances display brightness for composition in extremely dark scenes, achieving sharp focus even down to -10 EV.
   
6. Video capabilities include 4K UHD at 30fps (oversampled from 6K), 4K UHD at 60fps (DX-mode), and 1080p at 120fps, with recording times up to 125 minutes.
   
7. Shutter-priority auto mode for video recording, allowing manual selection of shutter speed while the camera manages aperture and ISO.
   
8. In-camera 10-bit H.265 recording for high-quality video without the need for an external recorder.
   
9. Introduction of Touch Fn for adjusting camera settings while framing pictures through the viewfinder, including moving the focus point via the LCD screen.
   
10. Support for merging NEF (RAW) images shot with pixel shift shooting to create highly detailed 96-megapixel images.
    
11. High-speed shooting capabilities, with burst rates of up to 14 fps and High-Speed Frame Capture+ (C30) for continuous shooting at up to 30 fps. Pre-Release Capture is also available.
    
12. Portrait-oriented features such as skin softening, portrait impression balance, and Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control for capturing subject complexion details.
    
13. Dual memory card slots, one compatible with widely available UHS II SD cards and the other with Micro SD cards.
    
14. Robust construction with magnesium alloy on the front and top covers, high dust- and drip-resistance, effective sealing on exterior cover joints, shutter-release button, and vari-angle mechanism. Additionally, it includes an electro-conductive coat to prevent dust buildup and a fluorine coat for easier cleaning.
    
15. Approx. Dimensions (Width x Height x Depth): 5.7 in. (144 mm) x 4.1 in. (103 mm) x 2 in. (49 mm)
    
16. Approx. Weight: 22.29 oz. (630 g)

Congratulations to Danpbphoto for winning WA 1092, based on the theme: Noodles.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1093 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1094 just started with theme: "Arches"
Deadline: September 27th noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Autumn in El Chalten Argentina by hpfish10

• Nature & Wildlife:
Two Loon Species by bcd80

• People Photography:
Triple Scoop by gmccroskery

Today, Blackmagic Design introduced the Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K, featuring upgraded internal components, a full-frame 6K sensor, a dynamic range of 13 stops, an L-Mount lens mount, and dual native ISO capabilities up to 25,600 for exceptional low-light performance. It records footage onto CFexpress cards. This new model boasts a spacious 24 x 36mm 6K sensor, providing cinema-quality images in a compact and lightweight body.

The Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K also uses an L-Mount, which is compatible with a wide selection of both modern and vintage lenses, giving filmmakers a broader range of creative options.

You can purchase the Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K right away from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide for $2,595.

Pre-order it for $2,595:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1787634-REG/blackmagic_design_cinema_camera_6k.html


Here are the main specifications:

1. Full-Frame 6K HDR Sensor
   
2. Up to 6K 36 fps Open Gate/4K Anamorphic
   
3. Active Leica L Mount, OLPF Filter
   
4. 13 Stops Dynamic Range
   
5. Dual 400/3200 Native ISOs
   
6. Focus & Iris Control for Select Lenses
   
7. 5″ Tilting LCD Touchscreen
   
8. CFexpress Type-B Card Recording
   
9. 3D LUT & L-Mount Metadata Support
   
10. HDMI, USB-C, 2 x Mini-XLR Audio Ports

Congratulations to statu for winning WA 1091, based on the theme: Wildlife.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1092 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1093 just started with theme: "Church"
Deadline: September 20th noon - Participate!

Just announced from Fujifilm:

Fujifilm just revealed the new GFX 100 II Medium Format camera and several new lenses today.

You can find all five of these new Fujifilm releases on this webpage.


Here are the individual items for pre-order today:

FUJIFILM GFX 100 II Medium Format Mirrorless Camera
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1784860-REG/fujifilm_600023590_gfx_100_ii_medium.html


FUJIFILM GF 110mm f/5.6 T/S Macro Lens
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1785586-REG/fujifilm_600023620_fujinon_gf_110mm_f_5_6.html


FUJIFILM GF 30mm f/5.6 T/S Lens
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1785585-REG/fujifilm_600023617_fujinon_gf_30mm_f_5_6.html


FUJIFILM GF 55mm f/1.7R WR Lens
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1784861-REG/fujifilm_600023613_gf_55mm_f_1_7r_wr.html


FUJIFILM VG-GFX100 II Vertical Battery Grip
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1784862-REG/fujifilm_16805490_vg_gfx100_vertical_battery_grip.html

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Far North by Gregg B.

• Nature & Wildlife:
Readin The Daily Rag by Danpbphoto

• People Photography:
Three Lovelies by charley5

@yukosteel just posted the first review on the Voigtlander 35mm F0.9 Nokton Aspherical Fuji X mount lens!

Here are a couple passages:

"First impression out of the box - the lens is surprisingly not too large as for ultra fast F0.9 aperture and knowing that some electronics is packed inside. I'd say the size is very similar to Fujinon XF 23mm F1.4 autofocus lens. The weight is 17oz which is about 480g, it feels very well balanced on Fuji X-T5 camera thanks to great weight centering."

"Cosina site mentioned FLE (Floating Lens Element) involved into optical design, so I've checked that. The rear optical module is moving in much shorter range of about 5-6mm, which is clearly indicating FLE movement, which is slightly modifying optical formula of lens while focusing and should improve IQ overall on whole focusing range. That is more complex to make mechanics observable in premium Leica M glass optics, which adds to the lens price but also to its optical performance."

To read the entire review, click here.

----

Pre-order the Voigtlander Nokton 35mm f/0.9 Lens at B&H Photo:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1781158-REG/voigtlander_ba377a_nokton_35mm_f_0_9_x_mount.html

Lens Specifications:

1. Maximum Aperture f/0.9
   
2. Lens Mount FUJIFILM X
   
3. Lens Format Coverage APS-C
   
4. Angle of View 43.8°
   
5. Minimum Focus Distance 1.1' / 35 cm
   
6. Maximum Magnification 0.14x
   
7. Macro Reproduction Ratio 1:7.1
   
8. Optical Design 10 Elements in 8 Groups
   
9. Diaphragm Blades 12
   
10. Focus Type Manual Focus
    
11. Filter Size 62 mm (Front)
    
12. Dimensions (ø x L) 2.9 x 2.6" / 72.7 x 64.9 mm
    
13. Length at Maximum Extension 2.6" / 64.9 mm
    
14. Weight 1.1 lb / 492 g

Congratulations to statu for winning WA 1090, based on the theme: Knife.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1091 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1092 just started with theme: "Noodles"
Deadline: September 13th noon - Participate!

B&H is excited to introduce the first-ever Bild Expo, a unique event that celebrates creativity in photography, videography, and audio. The word "Bild" comes from Yiddish and means 'image,' symbolizing B&H's dedication to visual and auditory art for the past 50 years. At Bild Expo, you'll be inspired by expert speakers, learning opportunities, a fantastic brand expo, exciting contests, and plenty of ideas to fuel your creative growth.

Here is a link showing all specials related to photography:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bild-expo/deals

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
White Pocket Milky Way by rji2goleez

• Nature & Wildlife:
~~20 Ruby Throated Hummingbirds~~ by Ted ellis

• People Photography:
Right Shoulder Arm! by Danpbphoto

Congratulations to Dragonfire for winning MA 231, based on the theme: Your Favorite Dessert.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the MA 232 winners.
Cast your vote!

Monthly Assignment 233 just started with theme: "Balloons"
Deadline: October 1st noon - Participate!

Sigma has announced that they are introducing two new lenses, the 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS and the 23mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary, for Fujifilm X-mount. This addition increases the total number of Sigma lenses available for this format to six.

Among these lenses, the 100-400mm f/5.6-6.3 is the second zoom lens that Sigma has made for Fujifilm X-mount. It joins the 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN lens in this category. On the other hand, the 23mm f/1.4 DC DN joins the group of fast prime lenses available for the mount, including the 16mm f/1.4, 30mm f/1.4, and 56mm f/1.4 options.

Sigma's 100-400mm lens, initially designed for full-frame cameras and released in 2020 for Sony E and Leica L mounts, now arrives for X-mount. Adapted with care for this format, Sigma has tailored a control algorithm for Fujifilm's APS-C cameras. This algorithm enhances autofocus drive, communication speed, and supports continuous autofocus (AF-C) along with in-camera aberration correction. The lens's side switches have been optimized for X-mount usage. The "AF Function Setting Switch" empowers photographers to select functions while pressing the AF Function Button on the lens.

Sigma is fulfilling its commitment to introduce the 23mm f/1.4 DC DN to Fujifilm X-mount. This APS-C lens is currently accessible for Sony E and Leica L mounts, and its upcoming availability for Fujifilm X was announced in April.

Sigma 23mm f/1.4 DC DN to Fujifilm X-mount Specifications

Pre-order it at B&H Photo ($549)

Maximum Aperture f/1.4
Minimum Aperture f/16
Lens Mount FUJIFILM X
Lens Format Coverage APS-C
Minimum Focus Distance 9.8" / 25 cm
Macro Reproduction Ratio 1:7.3
Optical Design 13 Elements in 10 Groups
Diaphragm Blades 9
Focus Type Autofocus
Image Stabilization No
Filter Size 52 mm (Front)
Dimensions (ø x L) 2.6 x 3" / 65.8 x 76.9 mm
Weight 12 oz / 340 g


Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS to Fujifilm X-mount Specifications

Pre-order it at B&H Photo ($949)

Maximum Aperture f/5 to 6.3
Minimum Aperture f/22 to 29
Lens Mount FUJIFILM X
Lens Format Coverage Full-Frame
Angle of View 24.4° to 6.2°
Minimum Focus Distance 3.61' / 1.1 m
Maximum Magnification 0.24x
Optical Design 22 Elements in 16 Groups
Diaphragm Blades 9, Rounded
Focus Type Autofocus
Image Stabilization Yes
Tripod Collar Removable and Rotating (Optional)
Filter Size 67 mm (Front)
Dimensions (ø x L) 3.39 x 7.76" / 86 x 197.2 mm
Length at Maximum Extension 10.92" / 277.3 mm
Weight 2.5 lb / 1135 g

Congratulations to statu for winning WA 1089, based on the theme: Reflection.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1090 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1091 just started with theme: "Wildlife"
Deadline: September 6th noon - Participate!

Sony just announced the highly anticipated A7C II (33MP), A7CR (60MP) cameras and the FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II lens.
The new a7C II has a design similar to its previous version. It uses the excellent 33MP BSI sensor found in the bigger Sony a7 IV. It also comes with impressive abilities for taking photos and shooting videos. On the other hand, the Sony a7CR is a new and compact full-frame mirrorless camera with very high resolution. It takes many of the great features of the a7R V and puts them into a smaller body, all at a noticeably lower price.

View the Explora article and video from B&H Photo.

Official Specifications:

Sony A7C II: ($2,498)

Pre-order at B&H Photo

1. 33MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI Sensor
   
2. Bionz XR processor and dedicated 'AI Processing Engine'
   
3. AF tracking with subject recognition
   
4. Shooting Up to 10 fps, ISO 50-204800
   
5. 10-Bit Full-Frame 4K30p Video (from 7K)
   
6. S-Log3, S-Gamut3, S-Cinetone, User LUTs
   
7. 7 Stops of In-Body Image Stabilization
   
8. 759-Point Phase Detection, 94% Coverage
   
9. 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder with 0.7x magnification
   
10. 3" 1.03m-Dot Vari-Angle LCD Touchscreen
    
11. No mechanical first curtain shutter
    
12. 1/4000s Mechanical shutter, 1/8000 Electronic shutter
    
13. Single UHS-II SD card slot
    
14. Weight: 515g

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Double Rainbow over Shiprock by rji2goleez

• Nature & Wildlife:
Svalbard exposure 78° North. by kdacharya

• People Photography:
Ballet Dance in Charlotte by mholdef

Congratulations to Danpbphoto for winning WA 1088, based on the theme: Triangle.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1089 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1090 just started with theme: "Knife"
Deadline: August 30th noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Photos from Banff by hpfish10

• Nature & Wildlife:
Kenya....it didn't disappoint by eyelaser

• People Photography:
Dancer Portrait by LinuxHack3r

The Voigtlander 28mm f/2.8 Color-Skopar VM is in stock:

B&H Photo | CameraQuest


Review quick links:

1. About the lens
   
2. Infinity Performance compared to Voigtlander 28mm f/2 Ultron II
   
3. Infinity Performance compared to Leica 28mm f/1.4 Summilux
   
4. Infinity Performance compared to Leica 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit (v2)
   
5. Infinity Performance when adapted to Sony A7R IV
   
6. Infinity Performance compared to Brightin Star 28mm f/2.8 pancake
   
7. Distortion
   
8. Lens performance at 0.5m (Minimum Focus Distance)
   
9. Chromatic aberration control: Axial CA
   
10. Chromatic aberration control: Lateral CA
    
11. Sunstar rendering and Flare resistance
    
12. Rendering compared to Leica 28mm f/2.8 Elmarit-M ASPH
    
13. Final Thoughts
    
    
14. Samples (Low Light)
    
15. Samples (High Contrast Light)
    
16. Samples (Portraits)
    
17. Samples (Golden hour, backlit)

_____________

Voigtlander 28mm f/2.8 Color-Skopar VM - Intro:

A Worthy Complement to the Voigtlander 28mm f/2 Ultron II

With much excitement and surprise, Voigtlander unveils the new Voigtlander 28mm f/2.8 Color-Skopar VM lens. This unexpected release has caught many of us off guard, and we were fortunate enough to get our hands on a review copy for testing. This lens doesn't seek to replace the Voigtlander 28mm f/2 Ultron II; rather, it offers a fresh approach, prioritizing portability while maintaining comparable performance and aberration correction when compared to the Ultron. It's an appealing choice for photographers seeking an ultra-compact wide-angle option.

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
A few from this summer! by Jeff

• Nature & Wildlife:
Kenya baker's dozen teaser by eyelaser

• People Photography:
Boys trip to Kauai by J. Pow

Congratulations to Tom Harpstead for winning WA 1086, based on the theme: Mushrooms.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1087 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1088 just started with theme: "Triangle"
Deadline: August 16th noon - Participate!

@yukosteel has recently published a new article detailing a close-up modification for the Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 v2 Canada lens. This modification specifically enhances the lens's minimum focus distance, allowing the Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 v2 Canada lens to focus closer. One of the most appealing aspects of this modification is that it can be reversed if needed.

Similar to the recently reintroduced Steel Rim version, the Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 v2 Canada lens originally has a minimum focus distance (MFD) of 3 feet or approximately 0.9 meters. This article explores an experimental adjustment of the lens's focusing mechanics, aiming to extend the close focusing range to around 0.78 meters.

According to Yukosteel, the modification to achieve a closer focus for the Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M lens v2 is not overly complex. In his own words:

"The most challenging aspect involves accurately unscrewing and screwing in the optical core. Creating a new brass stopper is a straightforward task, as is the removal of the default focusing blocking bar. With the right skills, this modification could take less than an hour to complete. You might even consider consulting a nearby lens repair technician to perform this simple modification for a fee."

Read full article at yukosteel.com:
https://www.yukosteel.com/2023/08/mod-closer-focus-of-078m-leica-35mm-f14.html

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Lion's Head Nebula Sh2-132 by Leah Hallett

• Nature & Wildlife:
Baby Golden Mantled Ground Squirrels (Kits) by G.E. Smith

• People Photography:
Some recent street images by airfrogusmc

Congratulations to M_Wales for winning WA 1085, based on the theme: What I Wore.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1086 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1087 just started with theme: "Wish"
Deadline: August 9th noon - Participate!

Congratulations to wcastleman for winning MA 230, based on the theme: On the Floor.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the MA 231 winners.
Cast your vote!

Monthly Assignment 232 just started with theme: "Bridge"
Deadline: September 1st noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Sunrise at Two Jack Lake by hpfish10

• Nature & Wildlife:
Kestrel Family by Pius Sullivan

• People Photography:
A Rebel In Ruins by DanielScott

Congratulations to statu for winning WA 1084, based on the theme: Locks.

The top five photos displayed below, will also be showcased on our Winners Gallery.

Voting is now open for the WA 1085 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1086 just started with theme: "Mushrooms"
Deadline: August 2nd noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Evening in the Dolomites by Jeffrey

• Nature & Wildlife:
Black bear Mom and cubs by johnohio

• People Photography:
Kenzie on the train tracks (My dog) by RobAmy