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Updates for DPP, EOS Utility and Picture Style Editor

Canon has introduced updates for three of its software applications. These applications are on the CD supplied with EOS cameras. Digital Photo Professional (DPP) DPP version 3.12.52 includes the following changes: 1. Supports images taken with EOS 6D. 2. Supports new lens (EF 24-70mm f4L IS USM). 3. Supports read-in of Picture Style files (.pf3) created in Picture Style Editor 1.12.2 and later. 4. Corrects shooting date error in other manufacturer`s image files when sent to Easy-PhotoPrintEX from Digital Photo Professional via plug-in print. 5. Corrects cases of software freeze caused by handling folders containing 2000 images in Mac OS X v10.8. EOS Utility EOS Utility version 2.12.3 includes the following changes: 1. Supports EOS 6D. 2. Supports read-in of Picture Style files (.pf3) created in Picture Style Editor 1.12.2 and later. Picture Style Editor Picture Style Editor version 1.12.2 includes the following changes: 1. Supports EOS 6D and EOS M. 2. Applied Noise Redu

Firmware update resolves EOS 6D video issue

Firmware Version 1.1.2 for the EOS 6D fixes a phenomenon which prevents movie files shot using Canon EOS 6D Digital SLR cameras from being played back on YouTube. You can download firmware version1.1.2 at http://software.canon-europe.com/ However, firmware version 1.1.2 may present some Video Snapshot limitations, as follows: 1. EOS 6D running Firmware Version 1.0.9: If a video snapshot captured when the camera was running firmware 1.0.9 is combined with a video snapshot created by a camera which was running firmware 1.1.2, the resulting video snapshot album will be corrupted. 2. EOS 6D running Firmware Version 1.1.2: If you try to add a video snapshot from a camera running firmware 1.1.2 to the video snapshot album created when the camera was running firmware 1.0.9, a warning message "Cannot select this movie" will appear and the video snapshot cannot be added to the album. The following workaround addresses the two scenarios described above: 1) Shoot a

EOS-1D X and the f8 issue

Auto-focusing may not function at f8 on some EOS-1D X cameras with firmware version 1.1.1. This version enabled the centre AF point to autofocus when the camera is used with lens/extender combinations, whose combined maximum aperture is f8. On some of the cameras with firmware version 1.1.1, auto-focusing does not function at f8. This is not an issue with the firmware itself, but with its installation at the factory. The problem can be overcome by overwriting the firmware. This phenomenon does not occur with a camera whose firmware has been updated by a user, or by a Canon service center. Cameras with 4 or 5 as the sixth digit from the left in the serial number are affected. Even when the sixth digit from the left in theserial number is 4 or 5, cameras with a white dot in the battery compartment are not affected. To overwrite the installed firmware and activate the auto-focusing at f8, simply re-install firmware version 1.1.1. There is no change to the firmware ve

EOS 6D available early December

The EOS 6D will be available in stores from the beginning of December 2012. It has an RRP of £1799.99 (body only), £1959.99 with EF 40mm f2.8 STM lens or £2519.99 with EF 24-105mm f4L IS USM lens. For more information about this camera, select 'EOS 6D' from the category list to the right.

Canon renews sponsorship agreement of World Press Photo

Yesterday, at the opening of the World Press Photo exhibition in London, Canon signed a three-year renewal of its worldwide partnership with the World Press Photo Foundation. The new contract also marks the 20th anniversary for the two organizations working together to empower photographers to tell a story.   World Press Photo, an independent, non-profit organization, was founded in 1955 and is universally recognized as the world's leading international contest for photojournalists, setting the standard for the profession. Attracting thousands of professional photographers, the competition offers a unique and often icon-setting view into global issues and events.   Canon has been a worldwide partner of World Press Photo since 1992 and while the market in which visual journalists show their stories continues to evolve, the power of image is as important and influential now as it has always been. www.worldpressphoto.org/ 

EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM and EF 35mm f/2 IS USM

Canon has introduced two new lenses to its range: •  EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM •  EF 35mm f/2 IS USM EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM •  high image quality 24-70mm lens with f/4 aperture •  lightweight design •  built-in IS •  macro function •  dust / moisture resistant This lens combines an essential everyday focal range with a premium quality L-series construction. A new macro function optimises the placement of lens groups during close-up photography, allowing shooting at a maximum magnification of 0.7x. The optical system includes two aspherical elements alongside two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) lenses, each with optimised Super Spectra Coatings to minimise chromatic aberration, colour blurring and flare. A nine-blade circular iris delivers beautiful out-of-focus highlights (bokeh). The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM also features a newly designed IS system. The advanced optical IS offers a 4-stop light advantage, while Hybrid IS effectively compensates for angular and shift shake duri

Half-price accessories with a new EOS

Canon has an attractive offer for Christmas. Buy a new EOS 7D, 60D or 60Da by 27 January 2013 and you can purchase selected accessories at half-price. The accessories includes battery grips, batteries, remote switches and remote timers. Full details are at www.canon.co.uk/eosaccessories

EOS M available in UK

The EOS M is now available at a range of retailers across the UK. It has an RRP of £769.99 including the 18-55mm standard lens and Speedlite 90EX flash gun.

Apple updates software for EOS M

Apple Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 4.01 supports the EOS M (among other camera) for Aperture 3 and iPhoto '11. System requirements are Mac OS 10.7.5 or later or 10.8.2 or later. See http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1604 for more details.

EOS 5D Mark III firmware update next April

A firmware upgrade for the EOS 5D Mark III will add features for both still and video shooting. The new firmware offers improved AF performance and enhanced HDMI output. When the camera is fitted with a lens and extender, resulting in a maximum f/8 aperture, the new firmware enables the camera to use the EOS 5D Mark III’s central dual cross-type focal points, currently only available up to an f/5.6 aperture. Following feedback from cinema and TV production professionals, the new firmware includes ‘clean’ HDMI output, enhancing overall video editing and monitoring procedures. Videographers will be able to output high-definition uncompressed video data (YCbCr 4:2:2, 8 bit) without any embedded icons or symbols from the EOS 5D Mark III to an external recorder using the camera’s HDMI terminal. This will enable easier editing of data with minimal image degradation for greater on-site workflow efficiency during production, as well as the option to record to the internal memory card

DPP and EOS Utility updates

Canon Digital Photo Professional (DPP) and EOS Utility have been updated to support the EOS M camera. DPP is at version 3.12.40 for Windows and version 3.12.41 for Mac OS. The software also supports the EF-M 18-55mm and EF-M 22mm lenses. The latest version of EOS Utility is 2.12.0 (Windows and Mac OS). You can download the software at http://software.canon-europe.com/

Canon winter cashback offers

Canon has launched its Winter Cashback offer giving you up to £160 cashback on selected purchases. If you purchase two Canon products included in this offer, you’ll receive an extra £25 cash back bonus. The two products must be bought from the same retailer at the same time to be eligible. The Winter Cashback offer delivers savings across a range of EOS cameras, EF and EF-S lenses, Extenders, Speedlites, a GPS unit, PIXMA multifunction printers and LEGRIA digital camcorders. The cashback offer is claimed by downloading and completing a claim form and returning it to Canon along with the original receipt by 28th February 2013. Visit www.canon.co.uk/wintercashback for full details

Autofocus at f8 for EOS-1D X

Firmware update v1.1.1 has been released for the EOS-1D X. It improves the scope and performance of the AF function and provides minor fixes. New features •  The centre AF point (one cross-type with four supporting points) can now be used to autofocus at a maximum aperture of f8. This means that L-series telephoto zoom lenses will autofocus when used with an Extender (f5.6 lenses will only maintain autofocus with the Extender EF 1.4x I, II or III). •  During AI Servo AF shooting in low light, viewfinder information is now illuminated. The AF points blink intermittently in red, allowing them to be easily confirmed whilst shooting without affecting the metering of the scene. Corrections •  Corrects a phenomenon where the metering value of the AE sensor becomes abnormal, affecting the final image •  Corrects a phenomenon where Error 70 may occur during AEB shooting •  Corrects a phenomenon where the firmware of the lenses cannot be updated normally •  Minor corrections to Ara

EOS Utility 2.12.0 updater for Mac OS

According to Canon, the main change for EOS Utility 2.12.0 is that it supports the EOS M. However, a problem with the earlier EOS Utility 2.11.4 when used with Mac 10.7.x (Lion) or 10.8.x (Mountain Lion) was an incompatibility with the EOS 5D Mark III. This appears to have been resolved by the latest update. If you are using a Mac OS earlier than 10.6.8, Canon recommends that you use EOS Utility 2.10.2. Also, EOS Utility cannot be used with WFT on computers running Mac OS X 10.8.0 to 10.8.1 (it can be used on Mac OS X 10.8.2. Supported cameras are the: EOS 1D X, 1D Mark IV, 1D Mark III, 1Ds Mark III, 5D Mark III, 5D Mark II, 7D, 60D, 60Da, 50D, 40D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 450D, 1100D, 1000D, EOS M. >>more information and download

LCE Lincoln Photo & Optics Show

The 'LCE Lincoln Photo and Optics Show 2012' takes place between 1 and 7pm on Wednesday 14 November. This annual event moves to a new venue: The Drill Hall, Free School Lane, Lincoln. Entry is free. The show brings together big name manufacturers such a Canon, Nikon and Sony along with a host of photo brands covering everything from tripods to monitor calibration. Attractions include hands-on demonstrations areas giving visitors the chance to get to grips with the latest products such as the Canon EOS 6D, Nikon D600 and Sony Alpha 99. Expert advice is on hand if required. There is a used camera marketplace featuring over 30 stalls of vintage, classic and modern equipment, with dealers looking to buy and sell all kinds of vintage, retro and traditional camera gear. LCE is also offering some great part-exchange deals on new equipment. For further details visit www.lincolnphotoshow.com or call LCE Lincoln on 01522 514131.

Canon printer and scanner drivers for Mac OS X

Apple has released Canon Printer Drivers v2.10 for Mac OS X. The update installs the latest software for Canon printers and scanners. The update required Mac OS X 10.6.1 or later, including Lion and Mountain Lion. The file size is 322MB! For more information go to: http://support.apple.com/kb/DL899

Southampton equipment shows

The London Camera Exchange has two equipment shows planned for the beginning of December. A Canon Pro In-store day is on Saturday 1 December 2012 at 11 Civic Centre Road, Southampton. >>more details The LCE Digital Photo & Optics Show takes place on Sunday 2 December 2012, from 11am to 5pm at The Novotel Hotel, 1 West Quay Road, Southampton SO15 1RA. >>more details

Lightroom 4.2 adds more support for Canon EOS

Lightroom 4.2 adds support for the EOS 650D and EOS M. It also adds tethered captured support for several recent EOS models, plus new lens profile support for recent lenses, including the three new STM lenses. You can read more about the changes and download a Windows or Mac update at: http://blogs.adobe.com/lightroomjournal/2012/10/lightroom-4-2-now-available.html

'Understanding lenses' eBooks

Andrew Gibson, former Technical Editor of EOS magazine, has published part II of his 'Understanding Lenses' eBook. Part I covered Canon wide-angle and kit lenses for EOS cameras. Part II looks at standard and telephoto lenses. Details of these and other eBooks by Andrew are available at: http://www.eos-magazine.com/ebooks/

Calumet autumn open days

Calumet’s Open Day events are back at stores from Edinburgh to Bristol and Belfast to London. Expert representatives from leading brands, including Canon, will be on hand to demonstrate latest products and help with photographers’ workflow challenges. There will be a variety of special ‘on the day’ offers at each venue and FREE sensor cleaning Canon bodies (photographers must have cameras with fully charged batteries). E vent calendar at Calumet stores: Wednesday 3 October - Bristol (10am to 4pm) Wednesday 10 October - Birmingham (10am to 4pm) Wednesday 17 October - Belfast (10am to 4pm) Tuesday 23 October - Edinburgh (10am to 4pm) Wednesday 24 October - Glasgow (10am to 4pm) Wednesday 31 October - London, Drummond St. (10am to 6pm) Wednesday 7 November - Manchester (10am to 5pm) *Not all brands will be present at all venues. Photographers should check with their local Calumet store. For more information visit:    http://www.calumetphoto.co.uk/eng/pag

Canon unveils its smallest and lightest full-frame DSLR

EOS 6D - key features •  Full-frame 20.2 Megapixel sensor •  Tough, lightweight construction •  Maximum ISO 25,600 (expandable to ISO 102,400) •  11-point AF sensitive down to -3EV •  GPS records your location •  Wi-Fi file transfer and remote control •  Full-HD video Canon has unveiled its latest EOS DSLR for serious photography enthusiasts. A similar size and weight to the EOS 60D, the EOS 6D is the world’s lightest DSLR (at 17 September 2012) to feature a full-frame CMOS sensor. The model creates a new entry point into Canon’s full-frame line-up. The EOS 6D combines full-frame imaging and low-light performance with a compact, robust and lightweight design. For the first time in any EOS model, Wi-Fi and GPS connectivity are included, empowering photographers to capture images on the move, tag them with location information and wirelessly transfer them to a computer, the cloud, or smartphones. Full frame sensor The EOS 6D features a newly-designed 20.2 megapixel full-f

EOS 7D firmware updated to version 2.0.3

Hot on the heels of firmware version 2 for the EOS 7D comes version 2.0.3. This incorporates the following fixes. 1. Fixes a phenomenon in which the camera stops working when the auto power off setting takes effect. 2. Fixes a phenomenon in which the maximum number of images that can be captured in a burst may be less than the actual number displayed in the viewfinder. 3. Corrects some errors in the message displayed on the LCD screen when saving RAW images developed in the camera (these errors do not appear in the Japanese and Korean language displays). The fixes listed above are corrections for the phenomena experienced with firmware version 2.0.0. These phenomena will not occur in firmware version 1.2.5 or before. Updating the camera’s firmware to version 2.0.0 / 2.0.3 from version 1.2.5 or before will incorporate many new functions into the camera. For the details of these new functions, see: firmware version 2 features. >> more information and download f

EOS-1D X firmware update v.1.0.6

Firmware version 1.0.6 for the EOS-1D X incorporates the following: 1. fixes a phenomenon in which the AF Microadjustment cannot be correctly carried out; 2. fixes a phenomenon such that when using the camera with combinations of the EF 70-200mm f2.8L IS II USM or EF 200mm f2L IS USM and the Extender EF 1.4x III or Extender EF 2x III the images captured become back-focused; 3. fixes a phenomenon in which, when the camera is powered on in very dark environments (including instances when the lens cap or the body cap is attached), an Error 80 appears on the camera; 4. fixes a phenomenon, where if two CF cards are inserted into the camera and the 'Standard' or 'Auto switch card' setting is selected for the recording method [Record func+card/folder sel] and then one of the CF cards is removed and reinserted into the card slot, the card selected for recording and playing back images may be switched to the other CF Card; 5. fixes a phenomenon in which the AF mic

EF 40mm f2.8 STM lens firmware update

Firmware version 1.2.0 for the EF 40mm f2.8 STM lens addresses the phenomenon where, if pressure is applied to the lens barrel while the lens is mounted to the camera (or if the lens is placed and carried around in a bag with the lens cap attached), the autofocusing function of the lens may stop working. Without the firmware upgrade the issue can be resolved by removing and reattaching the lens. Firmware version 1.2.0 is for lenses with firmware version 1.1.0. The lenses with the following serial numbers were supplied with firmware version 1.1.0 installed: - the third digit in the serial number is either 0, 1, or 2 (xx0xxxxxxx、xx1xxxxxxx、xx2xxxxxxx). Lenses with serial numbers other than those listed above already have firmware version 1.2.0 installed. The lens firmware is updated by attaching the lens to an EOS-1D X, 5D Mark III or 650D. The downloaded firmware file is copied to a CF or SD card which is inserted into the camera before running the update procedure. A de

Cashback on EOS 7D and 60D cameras

Purchase an EOS 7D or 60D between 23 August and 31 October 2012 and receive a cashback of £80 (on EOS 7D) or £40 (on EOS 60D). The camera must be purchased within the UK or ROI and must have been supplied and distributed to retailers by Canon UK Ltd or Canon group companies located in the European Economic Area. >>more information and claim form

Cashback on Canon Pro printers

Purchase a PIXMA Pro 1 or Pro 9500 Mark II and receive £100 cashback. There is £50 cashback on the PIXMA Pro 9000 Mark II). The purchase must be made between 23 August and 31 October 2012. The printer must be purchased within the UK or ROI and must have been supplied and distributed to retailers by Canon UK Ltd or Canon group companies located in the European Economic Area. >>more information and claim form

80 million EF lenses

Canon has now manufactured 80 million EF lenses. This new milestone comes just over nine months after the company announced the production of the 70-millionth lens in October 2011 and coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Canon EOS System. Production of Canon’s EF lens series began in March 1987 alongside the introduction of Canon’s first EOS SLR camera system. In addition to EF and EF-S lenses designed for EOS digital SLRs, the range now includes an expanding selection of 4K-resolution EF Cinema Lenses. In July 2012, Canon also announced a new line of EF-M lenses developed specifically for the company’s EOS M compact system camera, which combine Canon’s signature image quality with compact, lightweight designs.

EISA award for EOS 5D Mark III

The EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR has been awarded ‘European Advanced SLR Camera 2012-2013’ by the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA). The EISA awards are voted by panels of editors representing 50 prominent magazines across 18 countries. Commenting on the camera, the EISA judging panel said: “The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is an extremely versatile still camera as well as being an easy-to-use, professional quality, DSLR movie camera. While the specification seems similar to its predecessor, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a substantial improvement in real life photography as well as in performance. Its 22-million-pixel CMOS sensor yields great results under normal and low light conditions, and the camera gets its advanced 61-point AF system from Canon’s new professional models. Additionally, this new EOS 5D generation has significantly improved weather resistance and 6fps continuous shooting speeds.” Canon also received awards for the PowerShot G1 X (‘European Compact Camera 20

Autofocusing issue with EF 40mm lens

Canon has confimed an autofocusing problem with the new EF 40mm f2.8 STM lens. If pressure is applied to the lens barrel while the lens is mounted to the camera the autofocusing function of the lens may stop working. Attaching the lens cap or carrying the camera with the lens attached in a bag can cause the error. The problem does not occur during normal shooting and does not result in a malfunction of the lens. To restore autofocus, detach and reattach the lens, or remove and reinsert the camera battery. Tests suggest that not every EF 40mm lens is affected. Firmware to address this phenomenon will be available for download in late August, 2012.

EOS 7D firmware update

EOS 7D firmware v2 is now available (see news item 28 June 20122). It offers greater control of image settings and functionality, including a higher maximum RAW burst rate, now up to 25 RAW files or 130 JPEGs. A new range of in-camera editing functions includes processing of RAW files, as well as easier adjustment of white balance, sharpness and Picture Style.  Enhanced control over Auto ISO levels during both still and movie shooting now allows users to limit ISO speeds to within the native ISO 400-6,400 range. Videographers will benefit from new manual control of audio levels, with the ability to choose from 64 different sound levels. New compatibility with Canon’s high-performance GPS unit, the GP-E2, enables photographers to track the locations of their images using longitude, latitude and altitude geo-tagging. EOS 7D firmware v2 new features: Improved maximum burst for RAW images (up to 25) In-camera RAW image editing In-camera Image Rating In-camera JPEG resizing Maxim

Free firmware update for super-telephoto lenses

Canon has released firmware update version 1.1.1 for the EF 300mm f2.8L IS II USM, EF 400mm f2.8L IS II USM, EF 500mm f4L IS II USM and EF 600mm f4L IS II USM lenses. This firmware update will be carried out free of charge from 6 August 2012 by Canon Service Centers. Version 1.1.1 changes the control algorithm of the focus drive and enhances the drive’s responsiveness for more precise focus adjustments. In particular, the new firmware enhances the AI servo AF capability of the lenses to track objects that move irregularly in sports events, such as soccer or rugby. The new firmware is for lenses which currently have firmware version 1.0.0. The serial numbers (10 digits) of the lenses equipped with firmware version 1.0.0 are as follows: EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM / EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM The third digit in the serial number is either 0, 1, 2, or 3 (xx0xxxxxxx、xx1xxxxxxx、xx2xxxxxxx、xx3xxxxxxx). EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM / EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM The third digit in the

EOS Utility and Mountain Lion

Canon has reported that EOS Utility will not start when used with Mountain Lion, Apple's latest operating system (OS X 10.8). An update to EOS Utility will be issued later in the year to fix this issue.

Canon enters mirrorless market with EOS M

 Key features 18MP APS-C Hybrid CMOS sensor The quality of a digital SLR in a compact body Scene Intelligent Auto Be versatile with interchangeable lenses Create out-of-focus backgrounds for high impact Easy-to-use touch-screen Atmospheric photos in low light Full-HD video with Video Snapshot Mode Canon's first compact system camera Canon  expands its EOS range with the launch of the EOS M. This is the company’s first compact system camera (CSC). It offers DSLR-quality imaging, creative features and Full HD movie creation in a compact and easy-to-use model. Canon says that the EOS M is for enthusiasts who chronicle their lives through images without necessarily considering themselves to be photographers. The EOS M features an 18 megapixel APS-C hybrid CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 5 processor. A super-fast shutter allows you to capture split-second action. The atmosphere of evening shoots and  night-time scenes can be captured by the ISO range of 100-12,800 (extend

Canon launches Facebook app and PIXMA software for printing photos

Canon is introducing new photo printing software solutions. Print Your Days A new Facebook application, 'Print Your Days' makes it easier to enhance and print photos directly from the site without the need for any additional software. The app, available online via Facebook, includes tools which allow you to automatically adjust photo layouts and create unique collage prints with up to five photos printed on a page. It also provides a range of style and editing options, including borders, cropping and the ability to add captions as well as colourful photo effects, such as sepia tone for a popular vintage look. A selection of 24 colourful backdrops can be chosen to decorate the background of a collage, ranging from fun spots or stripes to more natural effects such as grass or cork. 'Print Your Days' also makes it possible to print photos uploaded to Facebook by friends (providing friends on Facebook have given permission to access their photos), so photos of holiday

Problems with some EOS 650D cameras

Canon Europe has posted two notices about issues with the new EOS 650D camera. Camera model name Canon has indentified a phenomenon in which the camera model name embedded in the EXIF data of captured images incorrectly shows 'EOS Kiss X6i'. This is the model name for the EOS 650D in the Japanese market. Even if this occurs, the image taken is still captured correctly. Some units with '3' as the second digit of the serial number are affected. Click here for further information. Details of Canon Service Centres are provided if the camera needs to be returned for repair. A free repair service begins on 17 July 2012. Front rubber grips The front rubber grips of some EOS 650D units produced between 31 May and 15 June 2012 may turn white after a short period of time. After investigation and analysis with the rubber manufacturer, Canon has determined that zinc bis (N,N’-dimethyldithiocarbamate) is the substance that causes the problem. The amount of this su

Canon adds new features to the EOS 7D

Canon has updated the EOS 7D with firmware v2, adding a range of new features. These include a higher maximum RAW burst rate, in-camera editing functions, user-definable Auto ISO and support for Canons latest GPS Receiver. Enhanced raw performance The  RAW buffer is now extended to a maximum of 25 RAW files or 130 JPEGs (was 15 RAW or 126 JPEG). In-camera editing Photographers can now process their RAW files and correct artefacts such as peripheral illumination, distortion and chromatic aberration in-camera. Additionally, adjustments to white balance, sharpness and Picture Style, as well as a host of other parameters, can  be made immediately after shooting, with the results saved as new JPEG files. JPEGs can be  resized without the need for a PC or Mac. Image rating Photographers can now filter large volumes of pictures on their way back from a shoot using an image rating facility. Image rating data is stored in each files metadata, which can be read by a range of editing applica

EOS 60D/60Da firmware version 1.1.1

 Firmware Version 1.1.1 for the EOS 60D and 60Da incorporates the following fixes. 1. Fixes a phenomenon where the camera's serial number displayed in the shooting information of the image does not display the correct serial number. If the camera's serial number is 2147483648 or higher and the camera firmware is Version 1.1.0 or earlier, the images captured with the camera will be affected. This phenomenon only affects the EOS 60D; it does not affect the EOS 60Da. Both of these cameras are equipped with the same firmware. To obtain the serial number correctly in the shooting information of images that are already captured using the old firmware, Canon is preparing updates for Digital Photo Professional and ZoomBrowser EX / ImageBrowser applications. 2. Corrects errors in the Greek, Italian, and Portuguese menu screens. The firmware upgrade can be installed by the user. Full instructions and downloads are available at the >> Canon Download Centre

EOS 5D Mark III firmware version 1.1.3

Firmware Version 1.1.3 for the EOS 5D Mark III incorporates the following improvements and fixes. 1. Supports the single focal length EF 40mm f2.8 STM lens that is to be released at the end of June 2012. 2. Fixes a phenomenon in which an image may become underexposed when using the Auto Lighting Optimizer for continuous Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) shooting. 3. Fixes a phenomenon in which the backlight of the LCD monitor may not turn off depending on the camera settings and timing. 4. Fixes a phenomenon in which the camera's power may not turn on when a super-telephoto lens is mounted to the camera with an extender (EF 300mm F2.8L IS II USM / EF 400mm F2.8L IS II USM;  Extender EF 1.4X III / Extender EF 2X III) 5. Corrects mistakes in the Dutch, Italian, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, and Swedish menu screens. The firmware upgrade can be installed by the user. Full instructions and downloads are available at the >> Canon Download Centre

Canon unveils the EOS 650D

Key features • 18 MP APS-C  Hybrid CMOS sensor • Full-HD movies with manual controls and continuous AF • 5fps continuous shooting • Vari-angle Clear View LCD II Touch screen • ISO 100-12,800 sensitivity, extendable to ISO 25,600 • 9-point wide-area AF • Integrated Speedlite Transmitter Canon has launched the EOS 650D – a camera that offers high image quality and simple touch-screen operation. Ideal for newcomers to the system, the EOS 650D combines intelligent automatic shooting modes with a range of advanced features – making it easy-to-use today, with a full range of manual modes to explore tomorrow. The EOS 650D is the first-ever EOS to feature a dual AF system, which ensures exceptional detail in stills and continuous autofocus tracking when shooting movies. At the camera’s heart is an 18 megapixel (MP) Hybrid CMOS sensor and powerful DIGIC 5 processing, enabling the capture of sharp, full resolution images at up to 5 frames per second (fps). A Vari-angle capacitive to

EF-S 18-135mm and EF 40mm lenses

EF-S 18-135mm f3.5-5.6 IS STM • Versatile 18-135mm zoom range – perfect for travel • Smooth, quiet STM focusing when shooting movies on compatible cameras • Dynamic Image Stabilizer for smooth movie footage • Fast autofocus with full-time manual override • Minimum focusing distance of 0.39m EF 40mm f2.8 STM • Portable pancake design • Smooth, quiet STM focusing when shooting movies on compatible cameras • Fast f2.8 maximum aperture for low-light shooting • Close focus to 0.3m • Fast, quiet AF for pin-sharp results • Great image quality right across the frame  Two new compact, lightweight lenses - the EF-S 18-135mm f3.5-5.6 IS STM and EF 40mm f2.8 STM have been introduced. Both offer a number of new features, including continuous autofocus in Movie mode. Fast, accurate autofocus for film-makers and photographers As well as offering full-time manual focus controls when shooting stills, the EF-S 18-135mm f3.5-5.6 IS STM and EF 40mm f2.8 STM are also ideal for aspir

Adobe Lightroom 4.1 update

The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.1 update  is available and includes these enhancements: • The ability to process HDR TIFF files. (16, 24 or 32-bit TIFF files) • Additional Color Fringing corrections to help address chromatic aberration. • Save photobooks created in the Book Module to JPEG • Publishing photos to Adobe Revel is now accessible via a Publish plugin • Additional camera support for several new cameras including the Canon EOS 5D Mark III • Corrections for issues introduced in previous versions of Lightroom

Adobe Camera Raw 7.1 available

Camera Raw 7.1 is now available at http://www.adobe.com/downloads/ and through the update mechanism in Adobe Photoshop CS6. Support for the EOS 1D X, 5D Mark III and 60Da has been added. Camera Raw 7.1 adds new Defringe controls to help address chromatic aberration. Defringe is available as part of the Lens Correction panel. Camera Raw can also now read 16-bit, 24-bit, and 32-bit HDR files. Supported HDR formats are TIFF and DNG. Photoshop CS6 customers can upgrade to Camera Raw 7.1. Customers of previous versions of Photoshop can utilize DNG Converter 7.1 for raw file support for newly added cameras. The DNG Converter 7.1 is also available for download from http://www.adobe.com/downloads/

Apple Digital Camera RAW compatibility update 3.13

This update adds RAW image compatibility for the EOS 1D X to Aperture 3 and iPhoto '11. If you have not updated though the Mac Software Update system, you can downoad at: http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1535   System requirements are Mac OS X 10.6.8 or OS X Lion 10.7 or later

Canon plans robot production

Canon plans to fully automate its lens and camera manufacturing, according to a report from The Associated Press. Although some aspects of production have been automated since the manufacture of the Canon AE-1 camera back in 1976, the new plans are a move to machine-only production. The first robot-constructed cameras could appear as soon as 2015. The decision should mean a cost-saving for Canon and allow manufacturing to continue in Japan, rather than being outsourced to other countries. There is also potential for high quality control, as machine are not distracted by other machines. A Canon spokesperson says that no jobs will be lost - existing staff will be moved to other types of work.

Award for EF 8-15mm Fisheye lens

Canon's EF 8-15mm f4L Fisheye USM lens has received the Camera Grand Prix 2012 'Lens of the Year' award. The Camera Grand Prix is organised by the Japanese Camera Journal Press Club, made up of journalists from major photography and camera magazines.

EOS 5D Mark III quality issue announcement

When the LCD panel of some EOS 5D Mark III cameras illuminates in extremely dark environments, the displayed exposure value may change. The affected cameras are those where the sixth digit in the serial number is 1 or 2. For example, 'xxxxx1xxxxxx' or 'xxxxx2xxxxxx' (x represents any optional number) If you feel that the problem might affect your photography, you can have your camera inspected and repaired free of charge after 10 May 2012. Contact an authorised Canon Service Centre for details. >>Find Canon Authorised Service Centres

EOS 5D Mark III firmware version 1.1.2

Firmware Version 1.1.2 for the EOS 5D Mark III incorporates the following improvements and fixes. 1. Supports a new accessory, GPS receiver GP-E2. 2. Fixes a phenomenon where a pink cast may develop over the image when the shutter is completely pressed with the camera's power turned off (by the auto power off setting). 3. Fixes a phenomenon where the camera operation stops after one shot when shooting in High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode. 4. Fixes a phenomenon where the Shooting Date/Time in the EXIF data of the image shows a later time than the actual shooting time. 5. Fixes the time zone for the Samoa Islands. 6. Corrects errors in the Finnish menu screen. (Products for the Japanese market do not display the Finnish menu.) The firmware upgrade can be installed by the user. Full instructions and downloads are available at the >> Canon Download Centre

Canon wins six honours at the 2012 TIPA Awards

Canon has been awarded six separate honours by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) – Europe’s leading photo imaging and press association. Designed to recognise the best products launched in the preceding year, the TIPA Awards are considered the most coveted imaging honours worldwide. Comprising editors from leading photography titles worldwide, the TIPA panel meets annually to discuss the latest products, taking everything from innovation to design and overall product quality into account. The panel selects and acknowledges the outstanding imaging products from the previous 12 month period, and this year awarded accolades to the following Canon products: Best DSLR Professional: Canon EOS-1D X Best Expert Compact Camera: Canon PowerShot G1 X Best Professional DSLR Lens: Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L USM fisheye Best Multifunction Photo Printer: Canon PIXMA MG8250 Best Video DSLR: Canon EOS 5D Mark III Best Professional Videocamera: Canon EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera For mo

EOS 5D Mark III exposure issue in low light

Canon has confirmed that, in extremely dark environments, if the LCD panel of the EOS 5D Mark III illuminates, the displayed exposure value may change as a result of the AE sensor’s detection of light from the LCD panel. The company is investigating the problem.

Revised on sale dates for EOS-1D X and EF 24-70mm lens

Canon has revised its revised on sales dates for the  EOS-1D X and EF 24-70mm F2.8L II USM lens. This is due to a delay to the start of mass production. The EOS-1D X will now be available to buy from mid-June 2012. The EF 24-70mm F2.8L II USM lens will be available to buy from early July 2012.

Canon to expand EF Cinema Lens series with four compact, lighter, low-cost 4k models

Canon is developing four new digital cinematography zoom lenses, as the company expands its EF Cinema Lens range to provide greater creative options for video professionals. Joining the seven high-end lenses announced in 2011, the new models support 4K (4,096 x 2,160) resolutions and will be smaller, lighter and more compact – offering outstanding mobility and quality. Available with both EF and PL mounts, the lenses will also be available at competitive prices, offering premium performance to a wider range of users. The expanded EF Cinema Lens series will include two wide-angle cinema zoom lenses, the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S (EF mount) and CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L SP (PL mount), alongside two telephoto cinema zoom lenses, the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S (EF) and CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L SP (PL). Ideal for use with next-generation 4K cinema cameras, the new lenses will join Canon’s existing line-up of high-end EF Cinema Lenses in forming the core of the Cinema EOS system, which spans lens, digital c

Canon announces development of digital cinema camera supporting 4K video capture

Canon is developing a new digital cinema camera capable of recording 4K-resolution (4,096 x 2,160 pixels) video. Targeting both the motion picture and high resolution digital production industries, the EOS C500 will offer 4K RAW output and will be available with Canon’s EF mount and the industry-standard PL mount. In November 2011 Canon announced the EOS C300 – the first camera in the Cinema EOS System, marking the company’s entry into the motion-picture and digital production market. Highly acclaimed by video professionals since launch, the EOS C300 offers exceptional video quality performance, outstanding mobility, durability and expandability, thanks to its modular design and its compatibility with Canon’s range of EF and EF Cinema Lenses. The EOS C500/EOS C500 PL will be based on the same advanced platform, adding support for 4K RAW video capture, and 4:4:4 sampling during 2K capture. Supporting next-generation 4K-resolution video capture and RAW data output, the EOS C500/EOS C

Canon expands Cinema EOS System with new EOS-1D C

Canon has announced the introduction of the new EOS-1D C, a digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera targeting the motion picture, television and high-resolution production industries. Delivering outstanding video quality, advanced low light performance and film-like dynamic range, the compact and lightweight EOS-1D C supports in-camera 4K (4,096 x 2,160) video recording with 4:2:2 colour sampling, offering greater creative freedom for video professionals. The first SLR camera of its kind, the EOS-1D C offers a unique and highly portable package optimised for high-quality video recording. Advanced creative flexibility is provided with support for a range of resolutions and variable frame rates. 4K video is recorded using 8-bit Motion JPEG compression at 24p, and Full HD (1920 x 1080) video capture is available at frame rates up to 1080/60p. The camera supports internal recording to CF cards at all resolutions up to and including 4K, offering enhanced mobility. Video can also be output

Digital Photo Professional 3.11.26

Digital Photo Professional 3.11.26 is  available. - Supports images taken with EOS 5D Mark III, EOS-1D X. - Mac OS X 10.5 is no longer supported. - The digital lens optimizer function has been added. - The multiple image composition and HDR tools have been added. - Fixed a phenomenon that occurred when processing RAW images, the original image characteristics could not be obtained. - Fixes a malfunction that occurs when using the quick check tool to check a large volume of images. - Now supports the following new lenses. EF 24mm F2.8 IS USM EF 28mm F2.8 IS USM EF 24-70mm F2.8L II USM EF 500mm F4L IS II USM EF 600mm F4L IS II USM >> Canon Download Centre

Abnormal noise with EOS 5D Mark III and some lenses

When the EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera is used with the EF 200mm f/2L IS USM and some units of the EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM lenses, with the Image Stabilizer switch on the lenses set to 'on', an abnormal noise may occur. This noise does not affect captured images. Canon is investigating the cause and examining countermeasures to correct this phenomenon.

EOS 5D Mark III and DPP v. 3.11.10

Canon has identified an issue that prevents users of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III from processing their RAW format images when using Digital Photo Professional Version 3.11.10, the RAW image development software that is bundled with the EOS 5D Mark III. Ther company will shortly release an update for Digital Photo Professional which will address this issue. The update will be released in mid-April.

Star gazing with the EOS 60Da

Canon has expanded the EOS series with the launch of the EOS 60Da – a high resolution digital SLR designed for astrophotography.  Based on the specifications of the EOS 60D and succeeding the EOS 20Da, the EOS 60Da is designed to capture rich red colours produced by emission nebulae, with a modified low pass filter that makes it more sensitive to hydrogen-alpha (Há) wavelengths of light. The EOS 60Da is ideal for shooting astronomical phenomena such as diffuse nebulae – a favourite among astrophotographers due to the distinct red colour caused by the ionisation of hydrogen. In a standard DSLR, an infrared (IR) filter limits the amount of Há light that passes through to the camera sensor, reducing the transmission of red signals to prevent unwanted colour artefacts in the final image. However the EOS 60Da features a new modified filter that offers three times more transparency for Há light than the EOS 60D, combined with an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processing and a high ISO r