How can I take more control of my photos?

Great pictures are simple to take with your PowerShot or IXUS using Smart Auto. But have you tried the easy to use SCN Modes that set up your camera for specific situations? Here are just a few of the many possibilities.



Smart Shutter
Smart Shutter makes sure that you are in the photo but lets you choose when it is taken. There   are three ways to control it:


Smile mode lets the camera capture the image as soon as a smile is detected.

Wink Self-Timer fires the shutter on your camera automatically about 2 seconds after it detects a                wink.

Face Self-Timer will take a photo approximately 2 seconds after the camera detects a face                          entering the scene for a self-portrait or a new face joins a group in a group shot.

Colors, © Alfonso Romano 2011

Handheld Night Scene
Handheld Night Scene lets you shoot great nightscape photos without the need to put your camera on a surface or tripod. Your camera takes a series of shots and then combines them into                    a single image for minimum noise and blur.


High-speed Burst HQ
High-speed Burst HQ lets you capture just the right moment. It allows a short sequence of full resolution images to be captured, shooting at up to 14 shots per second*.

                   Portrait
Portrait Mode brings your subject into focus while beautifully blurring the background. Smooth Skin Mode is also available which automatically recognizes skin tones and selectively applies smoothness to them.

Southend firescape, © Gaz Barker 2012

Fireworks

Fireworks Mode helps you to capture the vivid colour of fireworks. For best effect, it is recommended that your camera is placed on a firm surface or tripod and the IS Mode is                                switched to "Off".

To learn about more of the SCN modes on your camera, check your User Guide. You can download it here.

* Total images captured and continuous shooting speed in High-speed Burst HQ varies depending on model.

Canon’s EOS-1D C: first ever HD Tier 1 DSLR

Canon today announces that the EOS-1D C, a unique and ground-breaking DSLR designed principally for motion picture capture, has been independently tested in accordance with European Broadcasting Union (EBU) standards for HD content acquisition1.  The tests found that the EOS-1D C is the first DSLR ever to provide an image of high enough quality for use as a broadcast production tool.
Results indicated that the EOS-1D C provides ‘exceptional’ HD resolution from a 4K source with ‘very low’ aliasing, and ‘good’ colour performance and motion portrayal. The test results also confirm that the EOS-1D C camera system and its imaging performance comply with the recommended specification for inclusion in HD Tier 1   for HD production2.

 “The EOS-1D C has received a tremendous response since it launched, and we’re delighted the test results were so positive,” said Kieran Magee, Director of Professional Marketing at Canon Europe Ltd. “We’ve created a truly unique product that offers exceptional creative scope for videographers. The feedback we’ve received from the professional video community has been excellent, so it’s great that the product has been awarded the industry accreditation it deserves.”

An innovative model that pushes DSLR video into new and exciting territories, the EOS-1D C delivers outstanding video quality, advanced low light performance and film-like dynamic range. It’s based on the same compact and lightweight design as Canon’s EOS-1D X, only with a specification that is designed for video-supporting in-camera 4K (4,096 x 2,160) video recording with 4:2:2 colour sampling, offering greater creative freedom for video professionals.

Its unique design and 4K shooting ability offers videographers a unique and highly portable package that’s optimised for high-quality video recording. Advanced creative flexibility is provided with support for a range of resolutions and variable frame rates, with 4K video recorded using 8-bit Motion JPEG compression at 23.98P or 25P, and Full HD (1920 x 1080) video capture available at frame rates up to 1080/60p for smooth motion.

As part of the wider EOS System, the EOS-1D C is compatible with Canon’s unrivalled selection of over 75 EF Lenses – providing videographers with an incredible range of creative options.

More information about the EOS-1D C can be found here:
http://cpn.canon europe.com/content/product/cinema_eos/eos_1d_c.do

EOS-1D C Key features:
• Internal 4K movie recording
• 1080p at 50/60fps; Canon Log Gamma
• Uncompressed HDMI output
• 18 MP Full Frame CMOS
• Up to 12fps stills; 14fps mode
• 61 point AF system
• ISO range 100-25600
• Dual DIGIC 5+ processors
• Clear View II 8.1cm (3.2”) LCD
• EF lens compatible

Special offer on the EOS 6D, 7D and EOS 5D mk III!

Now accepting pre-orders for the all-new EOS 70D!

Yes, that's right, we are now accepting orders for the EOS 70D!  We are expecting the first lot of EOS 70D bodies with wifi to arrive in Malta mid to end October, subject to Canon's availability.

The price for the EOS 70D body with wifi is 1,050 Euros VAT inlcluded.

Book yours today!

Magic Malta's competition in collaboration with Canon and Avantech

From Magic to Mars.....

Avantech renting the EOS 5D III

Happy World Photography Day!!

Happy World Photo Day from all the Avantech staff folks!

May we remind you that our World Photography Day competition is still open, applications and submissions are open until Thursday 5th September.

For more info please visit out website:
http://www.avantech.com.mt/world-photography-day-competition-2013/

Tip time: EOS 5D Mark III: Multi-function lock

If you find yourself regularly changing settings on the camera accidentally while moving around, then making use of the multi-function lock can avoid issues when you come to shoot in a fast-paced environment. The lock switch below the quick command dial can be used to lock the main dial, the multi-controller or the quick control dial – simply select which you would like to lock through the custom function in Group 2 Disp./Operation. When you come to change a setting, you may see L displayed in the viewfinder and on the top LCD panel. If this happens, you will be unable to change the setting because the multi-function lock is set. Simply flick the switch and the camera will return to normal.

EOS 100D wins DPreview gold award

The Canon EOS Rebel SL1 / 100D is an ideal camera for consumer users looking for better image quality, with improved live view and movie-mode autofocus in a small body. Its touchscreen interface offers a modern set of digital controls in a camera that will still feel familiar to more traditional SLR users.

With everything a family photographer is likely to want and little left over to intimidate, the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 may be Canon's best-targeted digital Rebel to date. As the top end of the Rebel line - currently the T5i - added more and more enthusiast features, the camera got bigger and more complex, and the SL1/100D stands as a suitable alternative without much compromise where it matters. Indeed, it currently stands as the better alternative for those who want to shoot in live view mode, and for anyone who thinks they'll want to shoot a movie now and then, thanks to Hybrid AF II. Image quality is also uncompromised, as we've come to expect from the Rebel line.

Its smaller size and lighter weight make it easier to pack and carry, meaning the Canon SL1 is more likely to be used, and its fuller feature set helps it stand out for those dissatisfied with their smartphone shots. The good news is the SL1 is a real pleasure to shoot, with ergonomics good enough for small to medium-size hands, and snappy performance, both when shooting and reviewing photos. The touchscreen makes menus and playback work like a cell phone, making it familiar to more users than would normally be the case. The only element missing to help it compete in the smartphone-dominated market is Wi-Fi, which can be added via an Eye-Fi card, which is supported in the SL1's menu.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canon-eos-100d-rebel-sl1

We will be closed Friday 16th August!

We think we deserve it!! ;-)

What we have all been waiting for - here is Canon's new baby!

We Are Extending The "Communicating with Photography" Competition!

Following the exceptional response received to our competition, we have decided to expand the scope to allow for more time and more participants in both DSLR and Compact categories.
The theme of “Communicating with Photography” remains unchanged.

There is now no limitation on the number of participants in both categories and the closing date has been extended to the 5th September 2013. Final judging will take place on 26th September - details can be found online on our updated Terms & Conditions page.

To all those who have already applied, we would like to offer you the option of changing your entry - please contact us on wpd@avantech.com.mt if you would like to do this before the closing date. 

To all those who have applied after subsciptions closed; we are assuming that you would still like to be a part of the WPD competition.  If you would like to opt out and unsubscribe please contact us on wpd@avantech.com.mt.  Should we not receive any email from your end we will assume you are competing.

We have extended the number of prize winners and prizes will now also be given to those placing 4th and 5th in each category.

For more information or to apply please visit:
http://www.avantech.com.mt/world-photography-day-competition-2013/

Good luck!

No more applications accepted for our DSLR category!

We are overwhelmed with the response we have had with the WPD competition! The DSLR category has been oversubscribed and unfortunately we are limited to accept the first 30 entries. 

Our compact camera category is still open and we are still accepting entries however.

Good luck! 

World Photography Day competition 2013!

It's that time of the year again; and this time around it's bigger and better.  We are giving the opportunity to 60 people, be it enthusiasts, professionals, compact camera users or DLSR; to have their photo exhibited for our WPD celebration and final at Avantech.

Spaces are limited, so please hurry!

Applications are open online today: http://www.avantech.com.mt/world-photography-day-competition-2013/

Please make sure to read the terms & conditions found on our website - any entrants not adhering to the rules can be disqualified!

Only one photo per entrant please!

Good luck everyone!

EOS 70D: Dual Pixel CMOS AF explained

The EOS 70D has been designed for photographers who are keen to explore and expand their shooting possibilities. It is equipped with a range of Canon technologies that make it possible to capture a wide variety of scenes and subjects in outstanding quality. Central to this ability is world-first, Canon-engineered Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. Please click on the image above for a short film explaining the technology and benefits and read on for a detailed account of how this system works...

What is Dual Pixel CMOS AF?

A Canon breakthrough sees twice the amount of photodiodes on the sensor, allowing phase-detection AF on the imaging sensor’s surface for the first time.

Dual Pixel CMOS AF is a sensor-based, phase detection Auto Focus (AF) technology designed to provide smooth, high-performance focus tracking in movies and fast autofocus acquisition when shooting still photos in Live View mode.

It is a unique, Canon-developed technology, ideal for creating professional-looking pull-focus effects and keeping a subject moving towards the user in sharp focus while maintaining a blurred background – a defining characteristic of EOS Movies.

Thanks to this groundbreaking advance, capturing a subject and retaining sharp focus, even when moving, has never been easier.

Why was Dual Pixel CMOS AF developed?

Featuring a flip-out 3-inch LCD screen with 1040k dots for very high-resolution viewing of your images and movies, the EOS 70D is a very versatile tool for Live View and HD movie shooting.

With the ability to make a subject stand out with a limited depth-of-field, comes a requirement to keep control over focus, if the main subject moves or the point of focus changes. Dual Pixel CMOS AF was developed so that control of focus during movie making is made easier and smoother – removing the perceived notions that a DSLR’s movie mode is usable only to a professional. Additionally, Dual Pixel CMOS AF was developed to enhance the usability of shooting with Live View – moving even closer towards the same performance encountered when using the viewfinder.

The EOS 70D includes a high resolution Vari-Angle LCD that can be used to shoot a range of subjects from unusual and creative angles. A phase-detection auto focus system supports photographers and expands the range of subjects that can be captured.

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF array covers 80% of the total image sensor area so even off-centre subjects can be tracked with higher speed and greater accuracy.

How it works

The EOS 70D features a newly-designed Canon APS-C CMOS sensor with 20.2 million pixels. All effective pixels on the surface of the EOS 70D’s sensor consist of two individual photodiodes, which are read separately for phase-detection autofocus and together for imaging. Dual Pixel CMOS AF is possible over 80% of the width and height of the Live View frame and is highly accurate without compromising on image quality.

Unlike other methods of sensor-based autofocus, which allocate either autofocus or imaging functions to pixels on the sensor, the pixels on the EOS 70D’s CMOS sensor can be used as imaging pixels and phase detection AF pixels. As a result, no additional imaging processing is required around pixels dedicated for AF, which ensures both quick acquisition of focus and maximum image quality.

To perform phase detection on the image plane the EOS 70D reads left and right photodiodes independently and then calculates the phase-difference of the two parallax images.

All of Canon’s current range of EF and EF-S lenses are compatible with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system.

By using this phase-difference AF technique the EOS 70D predicts the position the lens is in focus and moves it. By contrast, the more conventionally used contrast AF method looks for the focal position while moving the lens back and forth, so AF speed ends up being slower and not as smooth.

With face and object tracking engaged, Movie Servo AF follows a chosen subject as it moves, or when you recompose a shot. Alternatively, just select different focus areas by simply by tapping the touch-screen when recording.

At launch, Dual Pixel CMOS AF is compatible with 103 current EF lenses, spanning EF and EF-S, fixed focal length, wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The system marks a significant advancement in autofocus performance with greatly improved AF speeds.

EOS 70D launches with brand new AF technology

Canon has unveiled the 20.2 Megapixel EOS 70D APS-C format DSLR – the first ever camera to incorporate Canon’s new Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, which offers stunningly fast autofocus capabilities when using Live View and smooth focus tracking when recording Full HD movies.

The other key features of the EOS 70D include up to 7 frames per second (fps) shooting, a wide 19-point, all cross-type, AF system and a Vari-angle Clear View II LCD Touch screen that makes it easy to capture and review images and movie footage in stunning detail.

GROUNDBREAKING DUAL PIXEL CMOS AF SYSTEM

Canon’s brand new Dual Pixel CMOS AF system in the EOS 70D is breakthrough technology, incorporating two photodiodes per pixel to achieve phase-detection autofocus on the imaging sensor. This improves one-shot AF operation and offers a Live View mode that provides faster and more accurate focusing than ever before and smooth focus tracking when recording Full HD movies.

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology covers approximately 80% of the width and height of the Live View frame so that even off-centre subjects can be tracked in movies with high speed and accuracy for faster, smoother autofocus capability.

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology operates with 103 Canon lenses to deliver the next generation of AF capabilities. When shooting through the viewfinder, the EOS 70D’s advanced AF System – featuring 19 high-performance, cross-type points that are spread across the frame to help to deliver greater focusing speed and accuracy – ensures photographers can always keep subjects in focus, even when they are moving quickly. A dedicated AF button allows photographers to take creative control of focusing thanks to three different AF area modes.

OUTSTANDING RESOLUTION & LOW LIGHT PERFORMANCE

The EOS 70D incorporates a Canon designed and manufactured 20.2 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5+ image processor, which combine to deliver outstanding levels of resolution, producing images that are consistently rich in detail and colour.

Offering up to 7fps full resolution continuous shooting, the EOS 70D is ideal for capturing a range of subjects, from fast-paced action to stunning skylines, or beautiful portraits. With a standard ISO range of 100-12,800 (expandable up to ISO 25,600) the EOS 70D is capable of catching remarkable levels of detail, even when shooting in extreme low light conditions.

OPERATION & CONTROLS

The top plate of the EOS 70D features a lockable, rotating Mode Dial for swift and easy access to the camera’s various shooting modes.

The top plate of the EOS 70D features a lockable, rotating Mode Dial for swift and easy access to the camera’s various shooting modes. An intuitive 7.7cm (3.0”) Vari-angle Clear View LCD II Touch screen makes it easy for users to adjust settings, such as manual AF point selection – for single point AF Zone AF and 19-point AF – as well as to frame, shoot and review images or movie footage from a variety of angles. A dedicated AF button makes this process even easier when shooting through the viewfinder.

With 98% field-of-view, the viewfinder offers superbly clear viewing of the chosen AF area and the active AF points while the subject is being captured or tracked and includes a new electronic level icon for checking level horizons. As well as standard viewfinder information such as shutter speed, ISO value and aperture, the EOS 70D offers additional shooting information and warnings such as AE lock, exposure level/compensation, spot metering circle, exposure warning, Auto-exposure bracketing, plus flash settings information and a useful composition grid.

The EOS 70D features a range of easy-to-use shooting modes and creative shooting options, including in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) shooting mode, a multiple-exposure function for creating composite images and exposure bracketing for up to seven frames. Creative Filters make it simple for photographers to start with creative pre-sets and then explore their creativity. Creative Filters, including Fisheye and Miniature Effect, can now be previewed during image capture – allowing photographers to view and select the most suitable effect for a specific shot before pressing the shutter button.

Photographers can also learn how to adjust their images with an enhanced Creative Auto Mode. The Scene Intelligent Auto mode automatically detects the scene being shot and selects the best combination of exposure settings for the scene so that users can simply focus on image composition.

WIFI CAPABILITIES

Using the EOS Remote app you can also control the EOS 70D remotely when you don’t want to disturb your subject. The EOS Remote app allows you to change camera settings, adjust the focus on the Live View screen and release the shutter to capture the shot. Photographers can also use EOS Remote to review and rate the images shot on the EOS 70D on a bigger screen, post them to popular social networking sites and other cloud services.

EXTENSIVE EOS MOVIE SHOOTING OPTIONS

With the EOS 70D’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, filmmakers have a highly advanced creative tool for shooting EOS Movies in Full HD (1920x1080p) resolution and movie related features include an external mic port, stereo microphone, timecode, selectable frame rates, and a range of compression options. A Video Snapshot mode makes it easy to capture and edit short video clips (two, four or eight seconds) to bring exciting events, such as weddings and holidays, to life.

EOS 70D – KEY FEATURES

• 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor with ISO 100-12,800 sensitivity, expandable to ISO 25,600.
• 7fps full resolution continuous shooting rate.
• Swift and accurate focus in Live View and Full HD movies with Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
• 19-point wide area, all cross-type AF points.
• DIGIC 5+ image processor - 14-bit processing for high quality images.
• Large 7.7cm (3.0”) capacitive touch panel Vari-angle Clear View II LCD 1040k dot, 3:2 ratio.
• Intelligent viewfinder with 98% frame coverage.
• Full HD movies with external mic port, stereo microphone, timecode, selectable frame rates, and a range of compression options.
• Built-in WiFi capability for instant sharing and remote control.
• In-camera HDR mode, Multiple exposure function.
• iFCL metering system with 63-zone Dual-Layer sensor.
• Electronic level, exposure compensation +/- 5 stops.
• Integrated Speedlite Transmitter.

EOS-1D X firmware Version 1.2.4 available for download

Canon has announced that a new firmware update – Version 1.2.4 – for its flagship EOS-1D X DSLR is now available for download. Details of the exact firmware fixes and improvements are shown below...

EOS-1D X Firmware Version 1.2.4

Firmware Version 1.2.4 incorporates the following functional improvements and fixes:

1. Improves the speed of the camera’s acquisition of focus when using a Canon Speedlite’s AF-assist beam.
2. Reduces the time it takes to display the metering result on the LCD or Viewfinder when the meter has been activated.
3. Fixes a phenomenon in which a ‘Caution 02’ message is unnecessarily recorded in the camera status log.
4. Fixes a phenomenon in which continuous shooting pauses when using a Canon Speedlite.
5. Fixes a phenomenon*, when the GP-E1 is attached, which causes the GPS device settings to be reset to default when the camera has been powered off.

Note:

* This phenomenon occurs only with firmware Version 1.2.1.

* After changing the GPS device settings, please be sure to power off the camera before removing the battery. This will ensure that the camera's GPS device settings will be saved.

EOS-1D X Firmware Version 1.2.4 is available to download – please click www.avantech.com.mt, then enter your country and camera details and select the firmware option to download the firmware. Firmware Version 1.2.4 is for cameras with firmware version 1.2.1 or earlier. If your camera’s firmware is already Version 1.2.4, it is not necessary to update the firmware. Please remember to read all of the instructions carefully before downloading the firmware.

Photographer ‘Shops His Baby Daughter Into Strange Situations

When Emil Nyström‘s daughter Signhild grows up, she’ll have a number of baby photos showing how adventurous she was as an infant. Since Signhild was less than 1, Nyström has been creating whimsical conceptual photos of the girl in strange situations.

The Umeå, Sweden-based photographer uses clever photography and careful Photoshop work to create the images, which show Signhild doing everything from painting a room in their house to chopping flying fruit as the Fruit Ninja.


Nyström tells us that his ideas come from places at different times. For example, the painting photo above came about when the family decided to have one of their rooms repainted. Shooting the photo involved holding Signhild up and then digitally removing the supporting arms:

The photographs in the series were shot using a Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 16-35mm f/2.8, and Sigma 50mm f/1.4.
Here’s what he tells us about shooting the actual photographs:

When shooting a baby like mine, I have to prepare a lot before I shoot, since she is usually not very keen on long working hours. If I get 15 engaged minutes, I’ve had it good. So lights, settings, scenery have to all be in place. Once the baby is on scene, I have to try getting the right facial expression and all the right poses as quickly as possible. Usually I get help from my wife with it. Sometimes when it’s more elaborate we have to have even more people helping. Other then that, there is usually not many problems with these types of shots.

Canon EOS 650D: tips for using your EOS camera

So you think you know how to use your Canon 650D? Like many of us, you may have a DSLR or compact system camera but tend to use only a handful of your its features.

In our ongoing review of some of the more popular current and ‘out of date’ Canon cameras, we want to help you better harness the creative potential of your camera.

Call them camera tips, or call it a user’s guide to your favourite Canon camera. The advice below comes from experts who have used the Canon 650D and know this DSLR inside and out.

If you have your own Canon 650D tips you’d like to share, post them in the comments below. What we want to build is an ever-growing user’s guide for the Canon 650D that comes not from a press release or a lab test, but from the photographers who shoot with this DSLR.

We want to inspire you to twist the mode dial and move beyond your favorite settings and functions and get more out of your Canon 650D starting today!

1 Nose adjustments
If you’ve activated the touchscreen on the ‘Q’ menus, the viewfinder sensor won’t switch off the LCD when you hold the camera to your eye, and this means you can change settings accidentally with your nose! So switch off the LCD by pressing INFO.

2 Better audio
The 650D offers continuous focus for shooting movies, but the noise made by the focusing system’s motor as it makes adjustments can be picked up by the on-
board stereo microphones. For audio that matches the quality of the pictures, use an external mic.

3 Picture Style Auto
Like the 600D, the 650D has an Auto setting for Picture Style. This has a tendency to create a more vibrant image, so if you’re looking for a more subtle colour palette, choose the Faithful or Neutral Picture Style (if you shoot Raw you can change styles in DPP).

4 Movie Servo AF
The autofocus is set to Continuous by default when you enter Movie mode. As well as tapping the icon on screen to switch this feature off if you want to focus manually, you can disable the setting in the Live View shooting menu (the fourth red menu).

5 Auto ISO
If you select the Auto ISO option, the camera won’t select an ISO higher than ISO6400, in order to ensure the best possible image quality. If you want a higher sensitivity, to enable you to use a faster shutter speed or narrower aperture, you’ll have to set it manually.