Congratulations to JCDoss for winning MA 228, based on the theme: In My Refrigerator.

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

Voting is now open for the MA 229 winners.
Cast your vote!

Monthly Assignment 230 just started with theme: "On the Floor"
Deadline: July 1st noon - Participate!

Congratulations to Danpbphoto for winning WA 1076, based on the theme: Road Less Traveled.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1077 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1078 just started with theme: "Pattern"
Deadline: June 7th noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Sydney NSW - Seascapes and waterfalls by dakel

• Nature & Wildlife:
Warblers, Lesser Yellowlegs, Kingfisher, GBH, Swallows by jaylee73

• People Photography:
Mystery Malibu Model… [male!] by jacquesvroom

The Leica Q3 was announced today, bringing its uniquely powerful features and timeless design to photography enthusiasts worldwide.

The Leica Q3 is a powerful and portable camera that combines classic design with modern features. It features a 60MP full-frame sensor, allowing for high-resolution and detailed images. The camera also introduces Triple Resolution Technology, enabling photographers to choose between 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP output with rich colors and a wide dynamic range.

The Q3 comes with the Summilux 28mm f/1.7 lens, providing a wide-angle view and fast performance. It incorporates a hybrid autofocus system, combining phase-detection and contrast-detection for improved speed and accuracy, along with intelligent subject tracking. The camera also excels in video recording, supporting DCI 8K recording, 4K recording with high color depth, and ProRes 422 HQ recording for professional-quality videos.

The Q3 features an updated electronic viewfinder with high resolution and a fast refresh rate, as well as a new tilting touchscreen LCD that enhances shooting flexibility. Its compact and weather-sealed design makes it suitable for everyday use in various environments. The camera is equipped with a high-capacity battery, a USB-C port for fast data transfer and charging, and a micro-HDMI port for external monitoring.

In terms of connectivity, the Q3 offers improved wireless capabilities with faster transfer speeds through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The Leica FOTOS app allows for easy wireless transfer and the addition of Leica Looks to enhance your images. Moreover, with the optional HG-DC1 Wireless Charging Handgrip, the Q3 supports wireless battery charging via Qi-compatible charging mats.

Overall, the Leica Q3 is a versatile and high-performance camera that merges classic design with advanced technologies, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts seeking both still and video capabilities in a portable package.


Pre-order today: ($5,995)

B&H Photo | Adorama

The Leica Q3 at a glance:

• 60 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology
• 14 stops of dynamic range and ISO range from 50 – 100,000
• Built-in 28mm Summilux f/1.7 ASPH lens with digital zoom up to 90mm
• 3-inch vertically-tilting touchscreen with 76% more resolution
• High-res 5.76 MP OLED EVF
• Wireless charging via accessory hand grip
• USB-C port for charging and tethering
• New battery with 18% more capacity
• Maestro IV Processor with 8GB of buffer memory
• Contrast and Phase Detection autofocus with eye, face, body and animal tracking
• 8K video resolution output and ProRes video support
• HDMI port for connecting external recorders and for playback on TV's
• Weather Sealed with IP52 certification
• Threaded shutter release button
• Handmade in Germany


New Features:

• Introduction of a new 60-megapixel Back Illuminated CMOS Sensor for enhanced image quality.
• Inclusion of USB-C and Mini HDMI connectors for improved connectivity options.
• Implementation of PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus) for quicker and more accurate focusing.
• Addition of a tilting LCD screen for increased versatility in capturing angles.
• Upgraded Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities for enhanced wireless connectivity.
• Provision of multiple file size options (small, medium, and full) for both DNG and/or JPG files, with resolutions of 60.3, 36.5, and 18.6 megapixels.
• Integration of reliable geotagging features in conjunction with Leica Fotos.
• Rear button layout modification for improved ergonomics and user experience.
• Support for long exposures, allowing flexibility in adjusting ISO and shutter speed settings. Long Exposure Noise Reduction can be disabled.
• Addition of one extra function button for increased customization options.
• USB-C charging capability for convenient and fast charging.
• Optional grip accessory enabling WiFi charging functionality.
• Enhanced resolution in the electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 5,760,000 dots and a magnification of 0.79.
• Improved resolution in the display with a 3-inch screen and 1,843,200 dots.
• Digital zoom now includes framelines for 28, 35, 50, 75, and 90mm focal lengths, providing a wider range of composition options.


Leica Q3 Accessories:

At B&H Photo | Explora Q3 Review

The FUJIFILM XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR Lens offers an ultra-wide-angle perspective with minimal distortion, perfect for capturing detailed subjects and backgrounds. With its lightweight design, improved focusing speeds, and weather-resistant build, this lens is versatile for both photography and videography.

Pre-order from B&H Photo: ($799)

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1765971-REG/fujifilm_16797760_xf_8mm_f_3_5_r.html

FUJIFILM XF 8mm F/3.5 Specs:

Focal Length 8mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 12mm)
Maximum Aperture f/3.5
Lens Mount FUJIFILM X
Lens Format Coverage APS-C
Angle of View 120°
Focus Type Autofocus
Filter Size 62 mm (Front)
Weight 7.6 oz / 215 g

The new FUJIFILM X-S20 Mirrorless Camera offers exceptional performance and versatility in a compact body. It combines a 26.1-megapixel X Trans CMOS 4 sensor, X-Processor 5 imaging engine, and five-axis in-body image stabilization to deliver high-speed image and video processing, improved autofocus, and impressive color science. With its lightweight design and comfortable grip, it's ideal for low-light photography and handheld videography.

The camera also features 19 Film Simulation modes for creative color options, Vlog mode for professional-quality footage, and various video recording options, including 4K and 6.2K streaming. Additionally, it offers improved battery life, making it accessible for extended content creation.

Pre-order at B&H Photo: ($1,299)
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?q=fuji%20s20

Main specs:

- 26.1MP X-Trans 4 BSI APS-C CMOS sensor
- X-Processor 5
- Sturdy and durable housing in magnesium alloy
- Built-in image stabilization that compensates up to 7 stops
- 3-inch tiltable LCD screen with 1.84 MP resolution and touch function
- Electronic OLED viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36MP resolution
- Continuous shooting of up to 20 images/s
- Filming in up to 6.2K 30p 4:2:2 10-bit 360Mbps
- Slow motion function with up to 240 fps in full HD resolution
- UVC/UAC, use as webcam without other software
- Live stream up to 4K 60p
- Integrated WiFi with bluetooth support for file transfer and remote control with smartphone/tablet and dedicated app

Congratulations to Danpbphoto for winning WA 1075, based on the theme: Dancing.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1076 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1077 just started with theme: "Turquoise"
Deadline: May 31st noon - Participate!

@yukosteel has recently released a comprehensive guide on disassembling and repairing the TTArtisan 35mm F0.95 lens specifically designed for the Fuji X mount. This informative article not only provides step-by-step instructions for partial disassembly of the TTArtisan 35mm F0.95 lens but also includes a detailed procedure for calibrating the infinity focus.

On a personal note, I have to say that the TTArtisan 35/0.95 lens has become one of my top choices for the Fuji X-Pro3. I absolutely love the distinct rendering it produces on the APS-C sensor. Using this lens feels like having a fast normal lens with a classic rendering, which may not be flawless but that's precisely what makes it so unique. It's reminiscent of shooting with a Leica 50/1.4 "pre-asph" lens on a full-frame camera.

To read the entire article, click here.

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At B&H Photo, you can find this lens in various mounts, including the Fuji X mount and others.

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Fitz Roy, Finally by Jeffrey

• Nature & Wildlife:
The challenge of the Kingfishers... by louie champan

• People Photography:
The Last Dance by chad hites

Congratulations to voltaire for winning WA 1074, based on the theme: Round.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1075 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1076 just started with theme: "Road Less Traveled"
Deadline: May 24th noon - Participate!

Update: Pre-orders for June delivery:

https://shop.cameraquest.com/index.php?p=catalog&mode=search&search_in=all&search_str=27mm

The new ULTRON 27mm F2 X Mount is now listed at Cosina's website.


Main Features:

- Designed exclusively for FUJIFILM X mount, optimized for FUJIFILM X system cameras, reducing distortion, light reduction, and color casts.
- Electronic contacts enable reliable communication with the camera body, supporting features like Exif information, focus check, shooting distance-linked display, in-body image stabilization, and parallax correction.
- Manual focus with high precision and smooth operation, thanks to all-metal helicoid unit and quality lubricants.
- 10-blade aperture for beautiful bokeh effect, rendering out-of-focus areas naturally and creating a soft, rounded bokeh. Additionally, the lens has a directly operated mechanical aperture ring and a focus ring with a lever for easy control and approximate focus point determination.

The lens is scheduled for release in June, but the price in the US has not been announced. In Japan, the official price is 73,000 yen (excluding tax), so the estimated street prices will likely be around 60,000 to 70,000 yen (including tax).

Pre-orders should open soon at Adorama and B&H Photo.

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
New Series from Patagonia by Gregg B.

• Nature & Wildlife:
~~"Wrapped Up in Blue"~~ by Ted ellis

• People Photography:
Kaia - Model Portraits by DanielScott

The recently announced Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 DI III-A RXD lens is now available for pre-order at B&H Photo:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1752899-REG/tamron_b060_11_20mm_f_2_8_di_iii_a.html

About the lens:

The Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 DI III-A RXD lens ((35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 16.5 to 30mm)) is designed for FUJIFILM X-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. It has a compact and lightweight design, making it suitable for landscape, astrophotography, and architectural photography. The lens features a constant f/2.8 aperture for consistent brightness and better depth of field control. It includes advanced elements to reduce chromatic aberrations and distortion, resulting in improved clarity and color accuracy.

The lens has a responsive autofocus motor, a minimum focusing distance of 5.9 inches for wide-angle macro shooting, and moisture-resistant construction with a fluorine coating for protection against dust and smearing. Overall, it offers versatility and performance for various photographic applications.

Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 DI III-A Specs

- Focal Length: 11 to 20mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 16.5 to 30mm)
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Minimum Aperture: f/16
- Lens Mount: FUJIFILM X
- Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
- Angle of View: 105° 20' to 71° 35'
- Minimum Focus Distance: 5.9" / 15 cm
- Maximum Magnification: 0.25x
- Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:4
- Optical Design: 12 Elements in 10 Groups
- Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Image Stabilization: No
- Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
- Dimensions (ψ x L): 2.9 x 3.4" / 73 x 86.2 mm
- Weight: 11.8 oz / 335 g

Nikon has just unveiled the Z8, a premium mid-sized full-frame mirrorless camera that inherits the remarkable sensor and processor from the flagship Z9 sports camera. Despite its compact form factor, the Z8 provides a vast array of features akin to its larger counterpart.

Key Features:

• 45.7MP Stacked CMOS sensor
• Up to 20fps with Raw, 30fps full-sized JPEG
• Pre-burst capture in JPEG modes (up to 120fps for 11MP crops)
• Subject recognition AF and 3D Tracking
• Synchro VR combining in-body and in-lens stabilization, rated at up to 6EV
• 8K/60p video in N-Raw, 4.1K in ProRes Raw
• 8K/30p or up to 4K/60p from 8K
• Choice of ProRes 422 HQ, H265, H.264
• N-Log or HLG capture
• 3.68M dot EVF with dedicated low-lag sensor feed
• 2.1M dot screen on two-way hinge
• One CFexpress Type B, One UHS II SD slot
• Dual USB-C ports

The Nikon Z8 will be available from late May with a recommended price of $3999.

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Pre-order from B&H Photo:

Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Camera

Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Camera with 24-120mm f/4 Lens

Nikon MB-N12 Power Battery Pack

Nikon EH-8P AC Adapter

B&H Explora Review

Congratulations to birdied for winning WA 1073, based on the theme: Beauty.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1074 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1075 just started with theme: "Dancing"
Deadline: May 17th noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Autumn in Argentina by Gregg B.

• Nature & Wildlife:
Winter Cubs and Momma Edit: and now Papa bear too! by lighthound

• People Photography:
Fisherman of Karachi, Pakistan by ketang

Congratulations to Danpbphoto for winning WA 1072, based on the theme: Someone Who Inspires You.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1073 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1074 just started with theme: "Round"
Deadline: May 10th noon - Participate!

Congratulations to DCJ50 for winning MA 227, based on the theme: Loud.

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

Voting is now open for the MA 228 winners.
Cast your vote!

Monthly Assignment 229 just started with theme: "Collection"
Deadline: June 1st noon - Participate!

@yukosteel's close-up modification article has been released, which enables the reissued Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim to have a closer focusing distance of around 0.76m.

The Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue (11301) lens has a minimal focus distance (MFD) of 3ft or ~0.9m. This article discusses an experimental modification of the lens focusing mechanics to increase the closer focusing range to approximately 0.76m.
The modification requires precise and accurate grinding of five separate parts, including the MFD focus stopping bar of the outer RF helicoid ring and the elevated area of the inner RF helicoid ring. The modification can be completed by anyone who only needs the lens to focus closer while using Live View or adapting it to another mirrorless system camera.

However, if the lens is to be used with a Leica M rangefinder patch at closer focus, the lens RF couple cylinder must also be modified.

Read the Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 Steel Rim reissue close-up mod article and initial tear-down.

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Prince William Sound, AK by DivineFocus

• Nature & Wildlife:
Dusky Grouse, Mountain Bluebirds, etc.. by G.E. Smith

• People Photography:
Lisa by LarryBeemer

Leica has released two new watches, the Leica ZM 1 Monochrom Edition and the Leica ZM 2 Monochrom Edition, inspired by their latest camera, the Leica M11 Monochrom. The watches are designed with a minimalist aesthetic, removing all color and silver tones, except for the red dot. The black rhodium-plated, diamond-cut, sandblasted indices and hands are beneath an anti-reflective and strongly curved sapphire crystal, and the dial is milled from a solid block of high-strength aluminum to reinforce its shock-resistance.

The Monochrom Edition watch strap is made of black calf leather, identical to the texture of the M11 Monochrom camera, and crafted using a cut-edge construction with hand-stitching. Both models have a mechanical, hand-wound movement developed and produced in-house, with the Leica ZM 2 having an additional feature as a GMT-watch. The Leica ZM Monochrom Edition will be available from selected Leica stores worldwide starting in late May, with a recommended retail price starting at €11,550.00 for the Leica ZM 1 Monochrom and €15,450.00 for the Leica ZM 2 Monochrom, including VAT.

https://leica-camera.com/en-US/World-of-Leica/Leica-Watch#monochrom

Congratulations to mark1958 for winning WA 1071, based on the theme: Hard Work.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1072 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1073 just started with theme: "Beauty"
Deadline: May 3rd noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
A Few Shots from Namibia by Abuttolph

• Nature & Wildlife:
Baby Hummingbirds in the nest... by louie champan

• People Photography:
Charlie and Emma by Whisle

Congratulations to bnfotografie for winning WA 1070, based on the theme: Ice Cream.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1071 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1072 just started with theme: "Someone Who Inspires You"
Deadline: April 26th noon - Participate!

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
Laguna Peho - Patagonia by Scott Stoness

• Nature & Wildlife:
Golden Mantled Squirrel Kits by G.E. Smith

• People Photography:
Xavier by DanielScott

Congratulations to Ted ellis for winning WA 1069, based on the theme: Wild.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1070 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1071 just started with theme: "Hard Work"
Deadline: April 19th noon - Participate!

Update: Pre-order the new Leica M11M and Leica Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH lens (2023) at B&H Photo:

Leica 50/1.4 Lux (2023) | Leica M11-M

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According to Leicarumors, Leica is preparing to unveil a fresh iteration of their Leica Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH lens and a Leica M11 Monochrome camera.

The upcoming Leica M11 Monochrom camera will come with 256GB internal memory and will be available in black chrome without a red dot. It will also have an ISO range of 125,000-200,000 and the highest dynamic range among all Leica cameras to date, boasting 15 stops.
The camera will be priced at $9,200.

The new Leica Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH lens will have 11 aperture blades, a reduced minimum focusing distance of 45cm compared to the previous version's 70cm, and improved optical performance for high-resolution M cameras. It will feature a built-in lens hood and have a design similar to the new Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH lens.

The lens will come in black and silver/chrome, with the former priced at $4,500 and the latter at $4,800, the same as the previous version. The official announcement is expected to be on or around April 13-14, depending on your timezone.

Here are the Feature Thread Winners based on your votes:

• Landscape Photographer:
The Great Aurora of 2023 by rji2goleez

• Nature & Wildlife:
Kenya 2023 - visiting my birth country after 58 years by kdacharya

• People Photography:
M and A by dawnkyung

Congratulations to LarryBeemer for winning WA 1068, based on the theme: Cards.

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

Voting is now open for the WA 1069 winners.
Cast your vote!

Weekly Assignment 1070 just started with theme: "Ice Cream"
Deadline: April 12th noon - Participate!

The Sigma 17mm f/4 DG DN, 50mm f/2 DG DN, and 23mm f/1.4 DC DN C lenses, which were previously just rumors, have now been officially announced and are currently available for pre-order.

B&H Overview page

B&H Photo | Adorama

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Sigma 17mm F/4 DG DN Contemporary Specs
Focal Length 17mm
Maximum Aperture f/4
Minimum Aperture f/22
Lens Mount Sony E, Leica L
Lens Format Coverage Full-Frame
Angle of View 103.7°
Minimum Focus Distance 4.7" / 12 cm
Maximum Magnification 0.28x
Macro Reproduction Ratio 1:3.6
Optical Design 9 Elements in 8 Groups
Diaphragm Blades 7, Rounded
Focus Type Autofocus
Image Stabilization No
Filter Size 55 mm (Front)
Dimensions (ψ x L) 2.5 x 2" / 64 x 50.8 mm
Weight 7.8 oz / 220 g


Sigma 50mm F/2 DG DN Contemporary Specs
Focal Length 50mm
Maximum Aperture f/2
Minimum Aperture f/22
Lens Mount Sony E, Leica L
Lens Format Coverage Full-Frame
Minimum Focus Distance 17.7" / 45 cm
Macro Reproduction Ratio 1:6.9
Optical Design 11 Elements in 9 Groups
Diaphragm Blades 9, Rounded
Focus Type Autofocus
Filter Size 58 mm (Front)
Dimensions (ψ x L) 2.8 x 2.8" / 70 x 70 mm
Weight 12.2 oz / 345 g


Sigma 23mm F/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Specs
Focal Length 23mm
Maximum Aperture f/1.4
Minimum Aperture f/16
Lens Mount Sony E, Leica L and FUJIFILM X mount
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 (ψ x L) 2.6 x 3.1" / 65.8 x 79.2 mm
Weight 11.6 oz / 330 g