Hot on the heels of the newly leaked Sony NEX-3n photos are the Sony A58 photos, which for those unfamiliar with Sony’s camera lineup, the A58 is expected to be part of Sony’s SLT range and will target the more professional photographer. Either way this is not the first time we’ve heard of the A58 as there have been rumors in the past about the existence of this device, and hopefully these photos will be able to prove that it does exist. It’s either that or these are some pretty convincing looking fakes. The official specifications the A58 have yet to be revealed, although supposedly Sony will be revealing them on the 20th of February at a press conference, but for now photographers interested in the A58, here’s what you guys can expect.
For starters the rumors are saying the A58 will sport a 20MP sensor capable of shooting 8fps and supposedly will have a much improved dynamic range compared to older models. The side of the A58 is also expected to be around the size of the A57, its predecessor, a brand new focusing system said to be “very cool” according to Sony Alpha Rumors’ source, the ability to control the camera via a computer and last but not least, it should be seeing a price tag of around $599 for the body-only. We’ll take this with a grain of salt, but feel free to discuss the probability in the comments below and check back with us on the 20th of February for the details!
The other day we spotted a photo of the upcoming Sony NEX-3n digital camera, and if you’re hankering for more photos of the device, the folks at Digicaminfo have gotten their hands on more photos of the camera, this time posing in white and in rather official looking photos. The specs have not been confirmed yet, but if you have been following the Sony NEX-3n rumors, word has it that the NEX-3n will be successor to the NEX-3. The mirrorless camera system will also sport a 16MP sensor currently available on the Sony NEX-F3, a zoom control button that will allow photographers to electronically control the 16-50mm PZ lens, as well as an additional 18-200mm PZ lens that you can attach to it. Sony is expected to hold an event on the 20th of February where the rumors are saying that’s when new cameras will be announced. However at the same time the 20th of February date has also been reserved by Sony for a PlayStation event, so we’re not sure if Sony will be killing two birds with one stone, or if they will actually be holding separate events. Either way check back with us then for the details!
When you’re starting out in photography, with your shiny new DSLR, the world of lenses can be complex and scary place: prime this, wide angle that, and what the hell is focal length anyway? Don’t worry! This video should have you covered. More »
We’ve already seen hints that Sony wants to rejuvenate its entry-level interchangeable lens cameras. Purported press images snagged by Digicam Info, however, support talk what could be an evolutionary yet meaningful refresh. The Alpha A58 you see above appears to only have minor ergonomic tweaks, but introduces a truly standard hot shoe and a new 18-55mm, f/3.5-5.6 II kit lens. The sighting backs earlier Sony Alpha Rumors claims, which also had the A58 carrying a roughly 20-megapixel sensor. A second set of pictures from DI (an example of which is after the break) also validates a previous live leak of the NEX-3N mirrorless cam, whose centerpiece is still its motorized zoom control. Neither Sony camera has a leaked release date, although the increasing flow of details suggests there isn’t much more of a wait.
There was some uproar about the possibility of using unarmed drones over US soil to locate that cop turned killer fugitive, but maybe that’s because drones have a bad rap because of all of the bombs they’ve been known to drop. Now, engineers at FliteTest are trying to make a kinder, gentler drone, the kind that captures artsy images.
The Lomo-Copter is a remote-controlled tricopter, outfitted with a medium-format Diana F+ Lomography camera with an instant back and remote-triggering mechanism. This brings fuzzy, light-leaky, and vignette stylized imagery to secret spy footage.
The Lomo-Copter also has another camera mounted to the Lomo-cam’s viewfinder, which transmits real-time footage to the operator’s stylish goggles for first-person-view operation of the drone, so they can snap pictures remotely with the old-school analog camera. Here’s a comparison of the FPV goggles and a Lomo print:
So if you’re worried about drones flying over your neighborhood, don’t be because some of them are actually pretty nice, and they might just Instagram you some photos of your garden gnomes.
A new patent filing uncovered by AppleInsider today shows that the company is still thinking about ways to upgrade the smartphone camera experience and deliver the best possible pictures you can get on a mobile phone. The invention would make it so that as soon as you open up the camera app on your iPhone, iPod touch or iPad, the device starts grabbing full-resolution pics and storing them to a memory buffer, meaning when you finally push the shutter you’ll have a wealth of different images to choose from.
The design would use continuous image capture to try to improve quality, and to compensate for what are currently essential failings in the way mobile photography works. For instance, Apple’s patent describes how when taking a photo, the camera’s virtual “viewfinder” shows a partial resolution version of what’s being captured, and then when the shutter is pressed there’s a delay as it switches to full resolution mode to actually take the pic, which means what you see is not often what you get. If camera software begins immediately snapping high-res photos and storing them to a temporary cache, it should be able to match the proper frame with the moment a user intended to capture.
Apple’s system would select from the buffer of photos based on timing, but also on quality. It would score images automatically based on factors like contrast, resolution, dynamic range, exposure time and more to try to logically derive which is the best, most in-focus shot. The device will then purge the memory buffer after a certain amount of time, or when it hits a pre-set threshold to clear room for future captures. In one of the embodiments, the user is given a full resolution preview to approve or deny immediately after the photo is taken, and then presumably presented with other options.
It’s a technology that could easily be integrated into iOS without much outward change, but it would likely merit some fanfare from Apple if it were already in use, especially now that Android and other OEMs are beginning to compete more aggressively for consumer attention with advancements to onboard mobile camera tech. And others in the industry are already using similar technology to accomplish different things: BlackBerry 10′s face selection for Z10 camera pics is one example, and Nokia uses much the same technology in its own Windows Phone 8 devices, after it acquired the company that created the system in the first place.
Picking the best of multiple exposures is one way to improve on mobile camera tech, but it’s not the only means. There are plenty of other improvements which could make considerable differences, including Lytro, which is clearly interested in licensing its selective focus tech to OEMs once it’s ready. But the camera is an area where iterating quickly can have a big impression on consumers with each successive hardware generation; improving things on either the hardware or software side is imperative if Apple wants to keep ahead of the game, and this patent (filed in October of 2012) indicates it’s actively working to make sure that happens.
You know what they say – when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Well, what happens when you want to get a closer look at how a waddle of penguins interact with one another? Dressing up in a penguin suit is a bird brained idea, so a BBC documentary team decided to release 50 spycams into such penguin colonies, where among them include cameras which functioned as eyes for robotic penguins, helping capture some really stunning close-up footage of the awkward looking flightless birds.
I do wonder, however, will some of the penguins actually attempt to mate with these robotic automatons? Nearly a year’s worth of footage capture through 50 different spycams will be used in the documentary, where some of them were disguised as chunks of snow or small boulders, although the most adorable ones would resemble those of robotic penguins. Of course, this leads one to think about how robotic insects (such as a robot bee) could eventually see action to further study the intricacies of a bee colony, no? One thing’s for sure though, such cameras were specially developed to be able to withstand extreme environments and temperatures without breaking down.
One of the most terrifying prospects we’ve heard in the past few years surrounding a gaming console – or a computer of any type, for that matter, has been re-addressed this week with the Xbox 720. This machine has not yet been confirmed as even being in development by Microsoft as of yet, but another bag of tips has been revealed with specifications and features included with the device that may set your hair on end. The first and perhaps most important of these is the idea that the included Kinect camera need to be plugged in to the machine at all times – and that it’ll be watching you constantly.
The Xbox 720 has been tipped as currently being distributed to developers under code-name Durango. Under that code-name we’ve seen a collection of information leaks large and small over the past year or so, with quite a few more than usual stacking up over the past few months. Today a source is speaking with Kotaku about this developer unit complete with a note that the features included on this unit will, for the most part, be included on the final Xbox build as well.
One element in play on this device appears to be a requirement for the new and improved Kinect camera sensor to be plugged in and active whenever you’re operating your Xbox. That’s all well and good, right? No harm in having a piece of the device plugged in as long as it’s not recording me playing Halo with uncombed hair, yes? Not if it has any implementation of Patent 20120278904 it’s not.
That patent application goes by the name Content Distribution Regulation by Viewing User. This application is for a “content presentation system and method” (the Xbox with Kinect, in this case) allowing content providers (Microsoft or whatever video company is participating) to “regulate the presentation of content on a per-user-view basis.” With this system Microsoft describes how “the users consuming the content on a display device are monitored so that if the number of user-views licensed is exceeded, remedial action may be taken.”
We must assume that this means the video being watched will throw up a warning sign, and now that the Xbox will explode into flame, of course. The same source as mentioned above has provided the image you see above this paragraph, this image coming from a specifications manual provided to developers (or so they say) here in the pre-release calm before the storm. This new Xbox 720 system will be able to not only see more “skeletons” than before (6 in one room!) it’ll have additional contact points – thumbs and all.
Have a peek at the timeline below to see more insights on what the Xbox 720 might bring later this year. And don’t forget – the Xbox 720 isn’t actually confirmed to in existence in any capacity by Microsoft as yet. We’ll hear from them soon – we hope!
This week the folks behind F5 Robotics have revealed DiveBot, also known as the “world’s first ready-to-use underwater HD ROV under $1300.” That’s quite the feat, making such a device at such a price, and it’s coming in a way that’s no small challenge for the public as well – it’ll be crowd-funded on its way to reality. Through the crowd-funding platform indegogo, users will be able to put down an amount of cash that will gain them early access to a final product, knowledge that they helped fun the project, or just a friendly letter saying “thanks!”
With this ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) you’ll be able to dive on deep into the sea with a collection of parts that are at once easy to construct and inexpensive to purchase. This project includes no less than some of the brand new F5 Robotics XStream Brushless Thrusters, a rather successful set of robot-friendly parts that are selling like wild right this minute. DiveBot uses at least two of these thrusters as a set of its most important components.
With DiveBot, users will have the option to choose from one of several different kits. First there’s a DIY Development Platform that users can purchase to create whatever final vision they’ve got for their version of DiveBot at home. This set comes with the chassis and the thrusters so you’ll be able to create your own model.
Next there’s the Standard Version which will be wired with a high definition camera and a 50-foot tether complete with controls as well as video-out so you can hook up your own display onboard your ship, whatever that may be. The price of the DIY kit is currently projected to be between $600 and $700 USD while the Standard Version will be closer to $1200, then there’s one final version – the Deluxe Version.
The Deluxe Version is so exclusive that there’s not even a price for it yet – it’s so wild and crazy that you’ll not even be able to handle it! It includes the same hardware you get with the Standard Version but in this case you’ve got a 150-foot tether, a Waterproof Pelican case to carry everything in on the go, and a lovely daylight-viewable 7-inch LCD display (for all your viewing needs.) This and each other version coming soon will be available with optional “upgrades” to 500 feet of tether and AUX lighting – go big!
The action camera known as the HD Ghost is one that Drift innovation delivers as their premiere top-of-the-line on-the-go media collector for the next mobile-friendly generation. With it, you’re going to be able to collect 1080p HD Video, 11 megapixel photos, and up to a massive 120fps video (in VGA mode). The basics for a top-tier action camera are all here – now it’s all about making sure we’ve got the connections we need to compete with the the other big guns in the industry.
Hardware
Here with this hardcore amalgamation of metal, soft-touch plastic, and real-deal Gorilla Glass protection, you’ve got a camera that’s ready to be tossed around. Of course you’re going to want to treat this several hundred dollars worth of electronics with the care that such a price describes, but you should take rest in the fact that this device was indeed built to take a hit or two. The Drift HD Ghost is water proof to 3m (9.84ft) right out of the box, too – mind that correction in the hands-on video here:
The Drift HD Ghost works with what Drift notes is an “Enhanced 7 Element Lens Design”. In this case they note that with seven separate unique elements right up front, you’ll be able to capture high clarity video with “stunning” color no matter where you’re filming. You’ll be able to judge that for yourself in the set of images and video we’ve got below, should you care to take a look. This unit’s lens works at 170 degrees (or just 130 degrees at 60fps) and is fully rotate-friendly – and it’s so tightly connected you’ll never turn when you don’t want to!
In addition to being able to capture audio right from the built-in microphone on the device, you’ve also got a 3.5mm microphone connector coming out the back. This port is accessible with one of several in-box backs you can attach to the device, each of them with their own unique purpose. The back we’ve got on the device here also allows you to connect directly to your computer through the device’s mini-USB port. Under the back you’ve also got a mini-HDMI port (Type c) so you can play videos and videos you’ve captured straight through an HDTV!
Inside the box you’ve also got a goggle mount, curved and flat surface mounts, a universal camera clip, and a velcro strap. The battery you get with this camera is 1700mAh strong and has lasted us over a week at a time with regular use – it’s almost magical. And if you need more time away from civilization, Drift sells individual batteries you can swap in and out. Also in the box is a miniUSB cable, 3.5mm microphone extension cable, accessory travel case, and a simple guide (if you happen to need it).
Software
This device uses its own unique user interface and software as you’ll see plainly in the hands-on video above. It also connects easily with your iPhone right out of the box using wifi. All you’ll need to do is click in to the settings on the camera, turn on wifi, and connect to the camera as you would on your iPhone to any other wifi network – the HD Ghost is the projector of said wifi signal rather than the receiver. Control works then through your iPhone with the free Drift App straight from the iTunes app store – it’s just called “Drift App”.
This device also connects to an included two-way remote that works with a couple of buttons that make operating extremely simple. Turn it on, connect, and you’ll have only to press record from there. This “Drift Active Status Two-Way Remote” allows you to capture media from up to 30 feet (10 meters) away wirelessly in each of the device’s main capture modes: Video, Photo, Timelapse, and Photoburst.
In short – the software is surprisingly simple to use given the four-button control you’ll be using on the camera itself. Connecting remotely is even simpler than the basic on-device experience, too – anyone can do it. This control panel interface also works in 15 languages so the whole universe can have a try.
Video and Photos Examples
This device is able to capture 11 megapixel photos, but more than likely you’ll be working mainly with video capture at 1080p at 30fps. Our first example of video is captured from a shopping cart exiting a department store in the evening on an otherwise snow-covered clear day. Note that this capture was done with the straight out-of-box camera experience, no attachments or audio enhancements made – standard mic, that is.
The camera has thus far proven itself to be a generally generous video capturer, though not one we’d use outside of hardcore situations that require such protection for the unit itself. In other words, if we’re heading to a birthday party and where a gift opening needs to be filmed, it makes a bit more sense to simply use a smartphone. If we’re jumping off a cliff with a parachute, it’s time for the Drift HD Ghost. Below you’ll see a collection of photos captured with the device as well. Note that the wide-view angle is one of the stronger points of excellence on this device.
Wrap-up
The Drift HD Ghost is a strong device in its ability to attach to a variety of equipment and capture video and photos on-the-fly. It’s extremely easy to use, and outputs media that you’ll be more than pleased you captured. Drift Innovation is the sort of company you know will continue to support this device, also, into the future – so official accessories and replacement parts will be available to you for some time to come – they’re already several cameras deep!
Right this minute you’ll be able to pick up the Drift HD Ghost action camera for around $399.99 brand new. Again, it’s the highest-end solution offered by Drift and it’s a real contender in this space!
Have a peek at the Looxcie HD Explore as well as the ContourROAM reviews we’ve done in the past to see what else is available out there for you, and note that GoPro Hero series is also available to you as one of the high-end solutions in this space. Mobile connections are hot, hardcore action is a must, and right this minute the Drift HD Ghost is one of the top pacesetters for this type of device, without a doubt!
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Hot on the heels of the newly leaked Sony NEX-3n photos are the Sony A58 photos, which for those unfamiliar with Sony’s camera lineup, the A58 is expected to be part of Sony’s SLT range and will target the more professional photographer. Either way this is not the first time we’ve heard of the A58 as there have been rumors in the past about the existence of this device, and hopefully these photos will be able to prove that it does exist. It’s either that or these are some pretty convincing looking fakes. The official specifications the A58 have yet to be revealed, although supposedly Sony will be revealing them on the 20th of February at a press conference, but for now photographers interested in the A58, here’s what you guys can expect.
The other day we spotted a photo of the upcoming 
