WPPI, the big wedding/pro photographer trade show, met this week in Las Vegas and while the focus was more on marketing a pro photography business, networking with peers and suppliers, and improving one’s photographic skills, there were a handful of new product announcements and first-time sightings of intriguing, recently-announced items. Heres a quick look at the best of WPPI 2014.
Hasselblad H5D-50C, World’s First 50MP CMOS Sensor Camera, Makes U.S. Debut
Hold onto your bank account: For the price of a hybrid sedan, you can be the proud owner of the Hasselblad H5D-50C, the world’s first medium-format camera built around a 50MP CMOS sensor, which made its US debut at WPPI. An upgrade over the H5D-50, the 50C is said to have a faster capture rate (1.5 fps), longer shutter speed (up to 12 minutes) capacity, a 14-stop dynamic range, and a top ISO of 6400 with clean results. As part of Hasselblad’s partnership with Sony, the CMOS sensor is made by Sony. The Hasselblad H5D-50C will be on sale soon for a mere $27,500.
Pentax 60-250mm First Public Appearance
Announced earlier this year, the Pentax 60-250mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM telephoto zoom lens made its first appearance. The lens, which just became available at Adorama, has a constant f/4 wide aperture, is expected to be embraced by sports shooters looking for a faster tele zoom. It is designed for use with Pentax APS-sensor cameras.
New Version of Pentax 645D Is Teased
Ricoh/Pentax teased a new version of its 645D camera with a mock-up model behind glass. All we know at this point is that it, too, will feature the same Sony 50MP CMOS sensor that’s in the Hasselblad HD-50C as well as the Phase One IQ250 back.
Westcott Zeppelin Deep Parabolic Softboxes Announced
Westcott announced the Zeppelin series of deep parabolic softboxes, which feature highly reflective silver interiors, inner and outer diffusion panels. (The inner diffusion panel has a 1/2-stop dot and 1 stop in the center), a removable cover for improved ventilation, 16 heat-resistant support rods, and, as indicated by the name, deep parabolic construction. They come with a travel case and are available now at Adorama in 35-inch ($399.90), 47-inch ($499.90), and 59-inch ($699.90) widths. Speedrings and brackets are available for Profoto, Bowens, Balcar, and Elinchrom heads for $199.90-249.90, depending on model.
Gary Fong Adapts Lightsphere to Modify Continuous Light
Gary Fong has turned his attention to continuous light sources, and has created an adapter to use his Lightsphere flash modifier with a regular lightbulb (although he recommends an 11-watt Phillip cool white dimmable blub), creating the same kind of natural surround-light effect for video or continuous light still photography that you can accomplish with the Lightsphere on a flash. The Gary Fong Lightbulb Adapter Kit can be pre-ordered now from Adorama for $49.95.
Gary Fong also announced the LightBlade flash diffuser, available now at Adorama for $34.95, which bounces part of the light towards the subject while the rest bounces of the ceiling. It works in both landscape and portrait modes, and is claimed to attach securely to the flash. This is available now.
New ThinkTank Bags Show Creative Thinking
ThinkTank has built a reputation for innovative bags and holders, and has just announced several new products. First up is the Filter Hive, a belt-mountable case designed for quick access to round, square and rectangular camera lens filters, with each padded compartment separating and protecting up to six fragile optics up to 4×6 inches (100x150mm). Next are the belt-mountable Pixel Pocket Rocket, which holds 6 CF and 3 SD cards, and the Ultralight Camera Cover, which ThinkTank says is the lightest, most compact camera cover for outdoor photography. This cover has water-resistant rip-stop nylon material to protect your DSLR during outdoor adventure photography.
Epson Metallic Photo Papers Go For More Subtle Look
Epson announced a new lineup of metallic papers, but rather than going ultra-shiny, these are more subtle luster and photo glossy. Luster is said to have a more brushed-metal look that may be attractive to wedding, portrait and event photographers. It will be available in 11×14 through 17×22-inch sheets, and up to 36 inch by 100-foot rolls.
Bowens/Pocket Wizard/Sekonic technology alliance announced
So, if you have Bowens lights, Pocket Wizard flash transceivers, and Sekonic light meters, you’ll be happy to know that these guys will be able to play nicer together. The three companies have announced a “technology alliance”. To celebrate, PocketWizard announced a yellow version of its Plus III. Thats Bowens’ color.
