Metabones Firmware Update For Canon EF Adapter for Better Performance with Sony a7S

Metabones has released an update (V0.32) for the MARK IV Canon EF Adapter which can be done by the user by following the instructions on the download page. It will improve the performance of the Metabones adapter when working with the a7S. I've already done the update and it doesn't seem to improve focus performance as far as I can tell, but will probably prevent the adapter to lose contact with the a7S.

Adobe's New Creative Cloud 2014

Adobe Creative Cloud 2014

Adobe revealed its latest update to Creative Cloud with 14 new versions of CC desktop applications, four new mobile apps and the official launch of the company's stylus and ruler set for iPad.

"We’ve been hard at work the last two years to address four key areas of the Creative Cloud you told us to focus on: performance boosts, workflow efficiencies, support for new hardware and standards, and of course innovative features, which we call the Adobe “magic.” If you’ve been hanging on to your old CS disks, waiting for the right time to join the Creative Cloud community, that moment is here. The latest version—available today (B&H 1-Year Subscription)—is packed with new, truly inventive features that will make it easier to do your work from anywhere, help you do it faster, and let you bring all of those great creative ideas in your imagination, to life."

Vinten Vision Blue Tripod

The Vinten Vision Bue Tripod

<< UPDATE: Review and Video are now online. Click here to read it >>

Thanks to Peter Harman, Vinten's Product Manager, I will be able to review the Vinten Vision Blue tripod soon. I'm really looking forward to this, because I think this will be a great tripod for the Sony NEX-FS100. The Vision Blue head incorporates adjustable continuously variable counterbalance which enables you to dial in the exact amount of counter balance needed for your camera. It's also equipped with the Vinten lubricated friction (LF) technology, which provides smooth movement of the camera. The Vision Blue is completely designed with today's lightweight camcorders and DSLRs in mind and it is able to manage payloads between 4.6-11 lb (2.1-5 kg) with a low center of gravity of around 2.2” (55 mm).

Glidecam HD-2000 Review and Videos!

Glidecam HD-2000 and the Glidecam forearm support brace

About two weeks ago I received a package with the Glidecam HD-2000 inside to 'test drive' and review. Now a few days later, I'm already addicted to this stabilizer!

Balance and setup
Setting up the Glidecam HD-2000 for the first time was an absolute breeze. The first thing I did, was mounting the camera (Sony NEX-FS100 with the 16mm f2.8 pancake lens and ultra wide converter and a smaller NP-F770 battery, without the side handle attached to the camera) on a Manfrotto (MN-357) Sliding Plate Adapter. Then I tried to find the center of gravity and marked the spot underneath the sliding plate. This spot should roughly be placed on top the central post. You do this by attaching your camera (or in my case with sliding plate adapter attached) to the quick release plate of the HD-2000. After that, you can start the balance process. I started out with the side handle attached to the camera and used 3 counter weight plates on each side of the Glidecam. By telescoping the base platform in and out I got the right drop time and was able to fly the camera within minutes after unboxing everything.

Glidecam HD-2000 Camera Stabilizer

Unboxing the Glidecam HD-2000 camera stabilizer and Glidecam Forearm Support Brace

Today I received a package from A.F. Marcotec with something really cool inside. It's a camera stabilizing system: the Glidecam HD-2000 with the Glidecam Forearm Support Brace. Thanks to Thomas Howie, Vice President of Sales & Marketing from Glidecam and René Shoukier from A.F. Marcotec, I'm able to 'test drive' this camera stabilizer for a couple of days!

Details Firmware Update NEX-FS100 (Early 2012)

Information about the first firmware update for the Sony NEX-FS100.
Looks very promising and I'm especially looking forward to the additional 4x and 8x Expanded Focus magnification (with selectable focus area) and that the camera will work on both 50 and 60hz systems!

Scheduled for early 2012. No cost. You will download package from FS100 webpage, connect PC to camera via USB and run user installable update.