What’s Up?
Since I began swimming again after my recent head cold, I’ve been getting into the pool after my morning photo session and before my intermittent fasting brunch (aka breakfast). That lets me swim on an empty stomach and increases the length of my fast.
This morning — Tuesday 18 AUGUST 2020 — was supposed to be mostly cloudy but soon turned crystal clear and sunny. I worked a crane a bit and then did some flowers.
Tomorrow’s big blog post will discuss everything that you wanted to know about the two new Canon Mirrorless bodies and the RF super-telephoto lenses but were afraid to ask.
Bird Photography Tips Part II Webinar with Alan Murphy
If you ever photographer birds at feeder set-ups, you do not want to miss this. To register for Alan’s August 18th webinar, click here or on the image above. Alan’s ability to create surreally perfect set-ups and attract birds into photographic range is remarkable … I will be there and am looking forward to it with anticipation as I am in the process of turning my living room into a bird photography blind! (Note: you can register now and then have two weeks to view the webinar online. But being there is more fun!
Those who register are requested to enter “BAA Blog” in the How did you hear about this webinar? box.
SONY a7r iv Firmware Update
From the SONY e-Guide:
Firmware Updates
To update your camera’s firmware (always recommended) go here. Search for your camera model and click on Downloads. Then download the latest firmware for your camera. Then double-click on the downloaded item, double-click on the Update Setting Tool, and follow the directions carefully. Note: you will need to connect your camera to your computer. The directions are complex and often confusing … But I have faith in you!
The ILCE-7RM4 System Software (Firmware) Update to version 1.20 was released on 5 AUGUST 2020. Be sure to specify Windows or Mac.
From the manufacturer:
The following benefits and improvements are also included in this update.
Enables use of “My Menu” to save or load custom camera settings.
Adds the “External Flash Set” function which allows you to configure the settings of an attached flash or wireless radio commander (both sold separately) directly from the camera.
Compatible Flash models: HVL-F60RM (with flash firmware version 2.00 or later), HVL-F45RM (with flash firmware version 2.00, or later), and Compatible wireless radio commander: FA-WRC1M (with firmware version 3.00 or later).
Improves the overall stability of the camera.
But for the last item, the above should not get too many bird photographers excited. But we still recommend doing all firmware updates.
The potential good news is that Homer IPT veteran Mukesh Patel e-mailed stating the AF performance with the a7r iv and the 200-600G lens was noticeably improved by the firmware update above … My 74 iv is updated but there is not any dependable flight photography here at ILE so it will be a while until I get a chance to check it out.
Totally interested in what you have to say about Canon. Can’t afford to ditch what I have invested in lens and such. Holding out to see what Canon can bring to the table.
See the next post and don’t forget to use the links!
with love, artie
Hey Artie,
I look forward to your appraisal of the Canon 5R and 6R.
I never made the jump to Sony or mirror-less, but might get lured by these new Canons, although there are some negative comments online about the heat buildup.
Haven’t been shooting lately, so my interest is academic at this point. But it’s nice to have a wish-list.
Best,
Tony Z
Only for extended video shooting. See the next post đŸ™‚
with love, artie
Good morning Guru. Hope you’re doing fine.
In my opinion, spending time on Canon or Nikon mirrorless systems might not be worthwhile! They are miles behind Sony in this field.
My humble request is; rather brief us more about latest and upcoming Sony gears. Fujifilm and Panasonic might also be able to turn out good equipment, few of those are already applauded.
Old laggards like me unwilling to part with DSLRs might find Pentax as a willing partner. They have decided to stick to DSLRs.
Best regards.
As far as Canon mirrorless, I disagree. I know zero about Fujiflm, Panasonic, and Pentax and have no desire to learn.
with love, artie