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On July 23, 2012, Canon finally entered the world of mirrorless systems.

I won’t go into the details of its features; there are plenty of websites that take care of this aspect. I’ll just provide comments and analysis and the possible impact it will have to the rest of the field.

For a while, the rumors were indicating a 4/3 size sensor would be used—as in Canon’s G1X. But they chose to go with the APS-C size. Many are rejoicing at this ...

I really like the look of the image in the video clip below. This is my second copy of this lens and it hasn’t disappointed on either occasion. The lens yields outstanding resolution, color and contrast. The price paid is the weight and bulk. Not just from the lens itself, but also from the tripod required to enable a smooth and stabilized capture. And then there’s the intangible consequence: our motivation to go out with this configuration. We all tread ...

MirrorlessRumors has published a post about Pentax and the possibility of a full frame mirrorless; you can view here: http://www.mirrorlessrumors.com/lets-dream-pentax-24-megapixel-full-frame-camera-coming-in-march-2013/

Pentax would do well to release a full frame mirrorless system–especially if it’s “the most compact ever made.” But I would settle with a slight reduction of the Leica’s M9 size. The overall system should be small enough to justify leaving the existing full frame reflex systems.

The aficionados of photography will immediately recognize the value. But it’s not enough to just ...

The last time Sharon (my wife) and I visited Niagara Falls, I packed the Canon 5DMKII and the Tamron 24-135mm—this time I decided to pack less—a lot less. Aside from the weight and size, the next big advantage was how well I blended with the rest of the visitors—they see a small camera and they don’t take notice. Operating under the radar allows greater focus on the task at hand: taking pictures.

Now keep in mind that the full-frame package brought ...

The m4/3 camp is turning up the heat with a stream of announcements squarely aimed at the upper end of the market. For me the Olympus E-M5 has been another leg in my journey to explore the possibility of using m4/3 when I’m shooting for dough. I say another leg because I’ve been using the Panasonic GH1 & GH2 for my video work.

Earlier in the month of May, I was commissioned to cover a three day event. The E-M5, along with ...

The state of mirrorless systems is ripe for the picking! Who has the right stuff?

Canon could seize the opportunity, and deliver a flagship level mirrorless system, but this is not likely to happen. Instead, they will likely move according to their market share–and as long as no erosion is taking place, no need to act. Canon has the means, but not the desire. Oh well.

The m4/3 camp is finally coming around to the market that they should have targeted at ...

The rumour mill is milling the imminent release of Canon’s new mirrorless system. The last of the hold-outs. What will their first attempt look like? What sensor format will they use? Will it be a top-down approach—will it contain Canon’s leading edge technologies or will it be just an entry level? Are they dipping their toe or plunging in?

I’m sure Canon has come to conclude that mirrorless is the future. The question that remains is are they prepared cannibalize their ...

I purchased this lens mostly for covering events using flash. Up until recently, I covered these events exclusively with full-frame. The biggest problem with this strategy is the size and weight of the equipment–as this image below demonstrates.

Now there are events like weddings, where I wouldn’t think of using the E-M5—at least not for portraits. But as a candid camera, the E-M5 and the 25mm f1.4 make a light, small and unimposing system. It enables people shots that are more natural. ...

Before I begin with this blog, let me qualify that I’ve owned an E-10, E-20, E-510, and E-30 system from Olympus—and that I currently own the E-1 and the E-500.

In the m4/3 format I own a GH1, G2, GH2. And now the Olympus E-M5. In the APS-C I own the NEX-5N and NEX-7. In the full-frame I own the Canon and 5DMKII—and have owned a 20D, 40D and 7D.

Although I have not done extensive testing, so far, I like the ...

As much as the Nikor 55mm is an awesome combination with the NEX-7, the focal length of the Nikor is a tad long for the captures I like to target. The Pentax 35mm f2 opens up greater possibilities. The 35mm focal length  yields taller panoramic images—at f5.6, the lens provides highly detailed images with excellent contrast and color.

But the big surprise of this little gem is its macro capabilities—it is sharp wide open!  At its closest focusing—at f2—it yields a ...