Category: Video / Photo

  • DJI Announces Osmo Action 6 Release Date for November Event

    DJI Announces Osmo Action 6 Release Date for November Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI is hosting a global launch event on November 5 to showcase the Osmo Mobile 8, following its earlier release in China.
    2. Another event is scheduled for November 18 at 12:00 UTC, likely focusing on a new photography or videography device.
    3. The tagline for the November 18 event is ‘Square Up, Nail the Move’, hinting at the device’s capabilities.
    4. The teaser suggests that the upcoming product may be the Osmo Action 6, a successor to previous Osmo Action models.
    5. The Osmo Action 6 is rumored to feature a variable aperture lens and a 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensor with 8K/30 FPS recording capability.


    DJI has lined up a global launch event for this month. To summarize, the company hinted that fans should be ‘in tune with every move’ on November 5. From what we understand, DJI plans to showcase the Osmo Mobile 8 worldwide during this event, following its earlier introduction of the same smartphone gimbal in China a few weeks ago.

    New Event Announcement

    Even with the next event just around the corner, DJI has revealed plans for another one. As seen in the teaser above and the accompanying video, something new is set to be announced on November 18 at 12:00 UTC. For now, the company has suggested that the upcoming device will center around photography or videography, hinted at by the tagline ‘Square Up, Nail the Move’.

    Teaser Insights

    The teaser video also showcases what seems to be a variable aperture camera lens. Aside from this, DJI has left fans guessing about what could be revealed on November 18. However, recent leaks have already disclosed some information ahead of time.

    At present, the teaser appears to connect to the Osmo Action 6, which is thought to be a successor to both the Osmo Action 4 and Osmo Action 5 Pro (currently priced at $349 on Amazon) and is expected to launch for around $329. Accordingly, DJI’s website indicates that the Osmo Action 6 will be available in the US. Additionally, it is rumored that the Osmo Action 6 will feature an f/2.0-f/4.0 variable aperture lens and a 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensor capable of recording video at 8K/30 FPS. It’s likely that more information about DJI’s upcoming action camera will surface before its official debut as well.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Asanuma Launches 8MP King Keychain Camera for Easy Photography

    Asanuma Launches 8MP King Keychain Camera for Easy Photography

    Key Takeaways

    1. The King keychain camera (KLIKKA-BK) is compact and lightweight, measuring 45 x 28 x 20 mm and weighing 16 g.
    2. It features a 0.96-inch LCD screen, allowing users to view 3,760 x 2,121 pixel JPG photos and 1,080p videos at 30 fps.
    3. The camera includes a built-in flash and supports microSD cards up to 32 GB for photo and video storage.
    4. It has a battery life of about 100 minutes, powered by a rechargeable 180 mAh lithium polymer battery via USB-C.
    5. Available in black, white, and pink, the camera is priced at 3,300 yen (approximately $25) and can also be found on Amazon US for international customers.


    Asanuma & Co., Ltd. has introduced their tiny 8 MP King keychain camera (KLIKKA-BK) in Japan, made for easy everyday carry (EDC). The camera is compact, measuring 45 x 28 x 20 mm (1.77 x 1.10 x 0.79 in.) and weighs just 16 g (0.56 oz.).

    Features and Specs

    This King camera features a 0.96-inch LCD screen that allows users to view their captured JPG photos at a resolution of 3,760 x 2,121 pixels and 1,080p videos at 30 fps in AVI format. It also includes a built-in flash, which is helpful for taking pictures in dim lighting conditions. Users can save their videos and photos on a microSD card, with support for cards up to 32 GB.

    Asanuma states that the camera is crafted to evoke nostalgia, producing images with less detail compared to today’s smartphones, similar to digital cameras from earlier years.

    Battery Life and Accessories

    The device is powered by a 180 mAh lithium polymer battery, which the company claims lasts for about 100 minutes. The battery can be recharged using an external USB-C power supply. Included with the keychain camera are a strap, keychain, USB cable, and a manual for instructions.

    Customers can purchase the 8 MP King keychain camera in three colors: black, white, and pink, with a suggested retail price of 3,300 yen (roughly $25) available on the company’s website. For those located outside of Japan, there is a similar 8 MP keychain camera option available on Amazon US.

    Asanuma & Co., Ltd.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Ulanzi VF-01 Clip-On Viewfinder for Retro Camera Vibe

    Ulanzi VF-01 Clip-On Viewfinder for Retro Camera Vibe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ulanzi VF-01 is an optical viewfinder that attaches to the camera’s hot shoe for easy framing of shots.
    2. It features a mirror and three lenses for 28mm, 35mm, and 50mm focal lengths, but lacks parallax correction for close subjects.
    3. Compatible with modern compact cameras and interchangeable lens cameras with the right focal length, ideal for subjects at least five meters away.
    4. The viewfinder has a foldable design with a magnetic closure for portability, measuring 45.2 × 38.2 × 44.2 mm and weighing 63 grams.
    5. Priced at $47.59, the Ulanzi VF-01 is available in silver and black, but does not include a carrying case.


    The Ulanzi VF-01 is a handy optical viewfinder that you can attach to your camera’s hot shoe. It lets you look straight down at your camera to frame your shots. This device includes a mirror and three lenses that show the field of view for a 28mm lens, but it also has frame lines that show you the views for 35mm and 50mm lenses.

    Compatibility with Various Cameras

    This viewfinder works well with many modern compact cameras that have fixed focal lengths, like the Fujifilm X100 VI, Leica Q3, and Ricoh GR IV. It’s also good for cameras that use interchangeable lenses, as long as you use a lens with the right focal length. Ulanzi suggests that it’s best for photographing subjects that are at least five meters away. However, keep in mind that since it doesn’t have parallax correction, if your subject is much nearer, the frame lines might not line up perfectly with what you see.

    Design and Portability

    One useful feature is that the viewfinder can be folded down, which helps protect the lenses and makes it smaller for easier carrying. It has a magnetic closure on the top that keeps it securely shut, and you can open it with just one hand. The dimensions of the viewfinder are 45.2 × 38.2 × 44.2 millimeters, and it weighs 63 grams. However, it’s worth noting that Ulanzi does not provide a carrying case with it.

    The Ulanzi VF-01 viewfinder is currently priced at $47.59 and can be purchased from the Ulanzi online store, available in both silver and black.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • October’s Stunning Red Spider Nebula Image Selected as Picture of the Month

    October’s Stunning Red Spider Nebula Image Selected as Picture of the Month

    Key Takeaways

    1. Planetary nebulae form when stars like the Sun exhaust their fuel, expand into red giants, and eject outer layers, revealing a hot core that emits ultraviolet radiation.
    2. The latest image of the Red Spider Nebula shows the hot central star more clearly and highlights surrounding dust, indicating it orbits in a disk-like formation.
    3. The hourglass shape of the Red Spider Nebula suggests the possible presence of a hidden companion star, similar to the Butterfly Nebula.
    4. The extended lobes of the Red Spider Nebula, visible for the first time, are shaped by gas streaming away from the star for thousands of years.
    5. Interactions between fast-moving gas from the central star and older gas create a rippling effect, forming the nebula’s distinct structures.


    Planetary nebulae come into existence when a star, similar to our Sun, reaches the final stages of its life. As the star exhausts its fuel, it expands into a red giant and ejects its outer layers into the cosmos. This process reveals the star’s extremely hot core, which then emits ultraviolet radiation. This radiation ionizes the gas that was ejected, resulting in the striking red glow that can be seen in images.

    New Insights from the Red Spider Nebula

    In a prior image of the Red Spider Nebula, the central star was faint and bluish. However, this latest image illustrates just how hot that core actually is. This remarkable view was captured using Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam), which provides a distinct perspective of the central star and highlights the surrounding hot dust. Scientists think that this hot dust orbits the central star in a disk-like formation.

    The Mystery of Companion Stars

    In this image, only a single star can be seen at the center of the Red Spider. However, the hourglass shape of the nebula hints at the potential existence of a companion star that remains hidden. The Butterfly Nebula showcases a similar hourglass shape, adding to the intrigue.

    This Webb image also shows, for the first time, the full range of the Red Spider’s extended lobes. These lobes appear in blue and reach out approximately three light-years away. They have been shaped by gas that has been streaming away from the star for thousands of years, creating a magnificent structure.

    Understanding Nebula Structures

    The fast-moving gas that escapes from the central star interacts with older gas, leading to collisions. These collisions cause the outflowing gas to bend, forming the purple S-shaped structure visible in the nebula’s center. This interaction is what creates the rippling look of the nebula.

    The image was generated using observations from Webb GO program #4571. Studies like this could provide valuable insights into how jets and outflows from dying stars influence the shape of bipolar planetary nebulae.

     

    Source:
    Link


     

  • DJI Osmo Action 6 Launch Date Announced: 1.1-Inch Camera Specs

    DJI Osmo Action 6 Launch Date Announced: 1.1-Inch Camera Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched its first robot vacuum, the Romo series, on a global scale.
    2. The Osmo Mobile 8 is set for worldwide release after its initial launch in China.
    3. Rumors suggest the Neo 2 drone will launch globally in under two weeks.
    4. The Osmo Action 6 is expected to be unveiled on November 19, following the Neo 2’s debut.
    5. The Osmo Action 6 may feature a 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensor, variable aperture lens, and support for 8K video recording at 30 FPS, starting at $329.


    DJI has just introduced its first robot vacuum on a global scale through the Romo series. Additionally, it looks like the Osmo Mobile 8 will soon be available worldwide after its initial release in China at the end of last month. In other news, there are new rumors suggesting that the Neo 2 drone will officially launch globally in under two weeks.

    Upcoming Osmo Action 6 Release

    A recent report indicates that the follow-up to the Osmo Action 4 and Osmo Action 5 Pro (currently priced at $349 on Amazon) could be launched soon. Specifically, The New Camera has reported that DJI is aiming to unveil the Osmo Action 6 on November 19. This date is significant as it is just a few days after the anticipated global debut of the DJI Neo 2.

    At this moment, The New Camera hasn’t provided any proof to back up this information. Instead, the site referenced an email from a DJI ‘brand insider’ that was shared with YouTuber PhotoRabz, which mentioned the November 19 launch. It seems that DJI intended to announce the Osmo Action 6 on October 24 instead of November 10, though other sources haven’t confirmed this supposed original release date.

    Expectations for the Osmo Action 6

    Regardless of the situation, we anticipate that DJI will release an official teaser by November 12 at the latest. The new Osmo Action 6 is expected to feature a 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensor paired with a f/2.0-f/4.0 variable aperture lens, setting it apart from its competitors. It is rumored to support 8K video recording at 30 FPS, all starting at a price of $329.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • DIY Engineer Creates Solar-Powered Drone That Doesn’t Need Batteries

    DIY Engineer Creates Solar-Powered Drone That Doesn’t Need Batteries

    Key Takeaways

    1. Luke Maximo Bell and his father Mike Bell shared a new YouTube video focusing on a solar-powered drone after a recent world record attempt.
    2. The drone features a lightweight and strong design made from carbon fiber, with 27 small solar panels providing direct power.
    3. Test flights showed the drone’s ability to fly using solar energy, despite some instability in mild winds.
    4. Future plans include an upgraded version of the drone with more solar panels, GPS, and autonomous flight software.
    5. The ultimate goal is to break the Guinness World Record for the longest flying drone.


    Just six days after trying to regain the Guinness World Record for the fastest drone, Luke Maximo Bell, alongside his father Mike Bell, has shared a new YouTube video. This video highlights a different drone and unveils plans for yet another world record attempt. The innovative drone operates entirely on solar energy, without relying on batteries or other storage devices.

    A Unique Design

    In creating this drone, Luke chose a frame and propellers crafted from carbon fiber. This choice helps in maintaining both the strength and light weight of the drone. For its power, he designed a panel composed of 27 small solar panels, connecting it directly to the drone, completely eliminating the need for a battery.

    Test Flights and Future Goals

    After conducting several test flights and making adjustments, Luke successfully flew the drone. Although it displayed some instability and wobbled in mild winds, it demonstrated the ability to fly using solar energy as its direct power source, exceeding the project’s initial goals.

    He also mentioned future plans for an upgraded version that will feature additional solar panels, a GPS unit, and software for autonomous flights. The objective of this next drone is to break the Guinness World Record for the longest flying drone.

  • ZHRC Z105: Budget-Friendly Beginner Drone with Display Remote $60

    ZHRC Z105: Budget-Friendly Beginner Drone with Display Remote $60

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable drones are expanding in range, with models like the Z105 priced at $60.
    2. The Z105 includes a remote control with a 4.3-inch screen but has limited range and video feed time.
    3. The drone is most suitable for beginners or children wanting basic drone experience.
    4. Flight time for the Z105 is approximately 12 minutes per charge.
    5. The drone features obstacle sensing but offers low video quality at 480p resolution.


    The range of affordable drones is expanding, despite these models typically having fewer features and specifications compared to more premium options like the DJI Mini 4K. The Z105 from ZHRC is currently on sale at Banggood for $60, not including shipping and possible import charges. This price covers the drone itself along with one battery. However, buyers should note that delivery could take a few weeks, and making warranty claims might be difficult.

    Remote Control Features

    One of the standout features is the remote control, which comes with a built-in 4.3-inch screen that displays the footage captured by the drone. However, the effectiveness of this feature is somewhat limited since the remote has a maximum range of 150 meters (492 feet) and can provide a video feed for only 12 minutes. Because of this, the Z105 is likely best suited for novices or kids who are looking to get some practical experience with drones, or maybe just want to see what the old house behind the large tree looks like.

    Flight Performance

    In addition to its other features, the drone can manage a flight time of about 12 minutes per charge. It seems to have the capability to sense obstacles and maneuver around specific objects or a house to capture videos or images. It’s important to mention that even though the camera is on a gimbal, the video quality is relatively low at 480p resolution.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Apple iPhone 17 Pro Features 200mm Telephoto with Sandmarc Lens

    Apple iPhone 17 Pro Features 200mm Telephoto with Sandmarc Lens

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feature a 48MP periscope telephoto camera with 4x optical zoom and a 100mm focal length.
    2. Sandmarc has launched a telephoto converter that doubles the focal length to 200mm, enhancing zoom capabilities.
    3. Apple’s in-sensor zoom allows for 16x zoom at 24MP, compatible with iPhone 16 Pro (Max) and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
    4. The Sandmarc lens is not compatible with iPhones lacking a telephoto camera; an older 58mm lens is available for base models.
    5. The Sandmarc Telephoto Tetraprism Lens costs $269.99 (plus $19.95 shipping) and includes two attachment options and a filter adapter.


    The Apple iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max come with a 48-megapixel f/2.8 periscope telephoto camera, which offers a 35mm equivalent focal length of 100mm, providing about 4x optical zoom. Recently, Sandmarc has launched a new telephoto converter that successfully doubles the focal length to 200mm.

    Enhanced Zoom Capabilities

    With Apple’s in-sensor zoom feature, users can take pictures with a 16x zoom capability at a resolution of 24 MP. This lens is also compatible with the iPhone 16 Pro (Max) and iPhone 15 Pro Max, increasing these smartphones’ 12-megapixel telephoto camera focal length to 240mm, which gives an effective 10x optical zoom.

    Compatibility Limitations

    It’s important to note that this lens cannot be used with iPhones that don’t have a telephoto camera. For users who own the base model, Sandmarc still provides the older 58mm lens, which at least enhances the main camera into a telephoto camera with 4x zoom.

    Product Details

    The lens measures 5.7 cm in length and weighs 143 g. It can be directly screwed onto the iPhone using the protective cover included or attached via a clip – both options come with the bundle when purchased. Additionally, a filter adapter allows users to utilize standard 43mm ND, polarizing, or effect filters with the lens.

    The Sandmarc Telephoto Tetraprism Lens is now available for purchase through the manufacturer’s online store, priced at $269.99, plus a shipping fee of $19.95.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • DJI Neo 2 Launches with LiDAR and 4K/60 FPS Video Upgrades

    DJI Neo 2 Launches with LiDAR and 4K/60 FPS Video Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Neo 2 drone in China, following the trend of releasing new products in the region first.

    2. The Neo 2 is larger and heavier than the original Neo, measuring 147 x 171 x 41 mm and weighing between 151 g to 160 g with attachments.

    3. Key upgrades include increased built-in storage of 49 GB and an improved battery capacity of 1,606 mAh.

    4. The camera features a wider field of view, improved light sensitivity, and supports higher video resolutions of 4K/60 or 4K/100 FPS.

    5. The Neo 2 includes enhanced navigation systems, better image stability with a dual-axis gimbal, and a starting price of CNY 1,499 (~$211) in China.


    DJI has launched a new small drone in China. As anticipated, the Neo 2 is revealed in China first, following the trend of the company’s latest products, like the Osmo Mobile 8 and the Romo vacuum cleaner. Recently, there have been hints that the original DJI Neo may only have a couple of weeks left before it is replaced worldwide (currently priced at $159 on Amazon).

    Size and Weight Changes

    To summarize, the Neo 2 is noticeably bigger and heavier than the Neo from last year. Specifically, DJI’s new drone measures 147 x 171 x 41 mm, and when the Digital Video Transmission Module is added, it expands to 167 x 171 x 54 mm. The take-off weight for the Neo 2 ranges from 151 g to 160 g, depending on if the video transmission module is attached. In comparison, the original Neo is 130 x 157 x 48.5 mm and weighs about 135 g. Still, in most situations, the Neo 2 maintains similar flight speeds, distance, and duration as its predecessor.

    Upgraded Features

    DJI has also increased the built-in storage to 49 GB and upgraded the battery from 1,435 mAh (10.5 Wh) to 1,606 mAh (11.5 Wh). Interestingly, the Neo 2 continues to use a 1/2-inch camera sensor, but it now offers a wider 119.8° field of view (FoV), a 16.5 mm equivalent focal length, a larger f/2.2 aperture, and options for 4K/60 or 4K/100 FPS video. The camera’s light sensitivity has improved from 100-6,400 ISO to 100-12,800 ISO.

    Enhanced Video and Navigation

    Additionally, the maximum video bitrate has risen from 75 Mbps to 80 Mbps, and the drone now supports BeiDou, Galileo, and GPS satellite navigation. DJI has included a dual-axis gimbal for better image stability, along with gesture control features and a complete obstacle avoidance system utilizing a front-facing LiDAR sensor. The starting price for the DJI Neo 2 in China is CNY 1,499 (~$211), which is a CNY 200 (~$211) increase compared to last year’s Neo. For those interested, the new drone can also be purchased for CNY 1,999 (~$281) with batteries and a charging case, CNY 2,499 (~$351) with an RC-N3 controller, or CNY 3,699 (~$520) with the Goggles N3 and Motion 3 controller.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Moment Launches Sequence 23L Backpack and Exposure 10L Vest for Photographers

    Moment Launches Sequence 23L Backpack and Exposure 10L Vest for Photographers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Moment Sequence 23L camera backpack features padded sections with adjustable Velcro dividers for customizable camera and lens storage.
    2. The backpack can transform into a standard bag by collapsing the dividers and offers top or full-zip access, plus a padded compartment for a 16-inch laptop.
    3. The new Exposure 10L camera vest is designed for quick access to gear and includes multiple pockets, inspired by running vests.
    4. The vest has a larger back pocket for a water reservoir or a 14-inch laptop.
    5. The Sequence 23L backpack is priced at $230 and the Exposure 10L vest at $120, both available for preorder with initial shipments expected in late December.


    At first sight, the Moment Sequence 23L camera backpack appears to be just like any ordinary backpack. However, it is equipped with padded sections that have adjustable dividers secured with Velcro, allowing for storage of various cameras and lenses.

    Versatile Design

    The dividers can be collapsed, transforming the Sequence 23L into a standard backpack. For easy access, users can either unzip it completely or open it from the top. Additionally, there is a padded compartment designed for a 16-inch laptop. The backpack weighs approximately 2.2 lbs and is designed to keep camera equipment safe from rain.

    New Camera Vest

    Moment has also introduced the Exposure 10L camera vest, which is crafted to be worn over a shirt and includes multiple small pockets. This vest draws inspiration from running vests and enables quick access to gear like small tripods, compact cameras, batteries, or flashes. There’s a larger pocket in the back that can accommodate either a water reservoir with a drinking tube or a 14-inch laptop.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Moment Exposure 10L camera vest is priced at $120 and is currently available on Moment’s official website, while the Sequence 23L camera backpack is offered at $230. Both items are available for preorder, and the initial 100 units are expected to ship by late December. Please note that the listed prices do not include shipping costs or any potential import taxes.

    Source:
    Link