Category: Video / Photo

March 11, 2025
OM System Develops New M43 Compact Camera as PEN Series Successor
Key Takeaways
1. OM System is actively developing an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera, indicating its importance in their product lineup.
2. The new Pen camera will likely continue to utilize the Micro Four Thirds system.
3. OM System aims to appeal to a wide audience, particularly those new to standalone cameras who may currently prefer smartphones.
4. The upcoming Pen camera will compete with compact models like the Canon PowerShot V1, PowerShot V3, and Sony ZV-E10 II, targeting social media users.
5. Potential features may include simpler controls to attract smartphone users, similar to existing models like the Fujifilm X-T50.
Olympus, now known as OM System, has fans of the Micro Four Thirds community eagerly awaiting an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera. This camera was a pioneer in the compact Micro Four Thirds category. When OM System revealed the OM System OM-3, a compact interchangeable-lens M43 camera with retro design, many believed it would take the place of the Pen F.
Updates on the Pen Camera
However, Kazuhiro Togashi, the Vice President of Brand Planning and Product Strategy at OM System, stated (through PetaPixel) that the company is looking into ways to create an updated Pen camera. PetaPixel also mentioned in the comments section that OM System has confirmed the Pen camera is “in active development.” While this doesn’t clarify a specific release date, it’s certainly positive news for those who appreciate the Pen series.
Togashi shared, “We think the Pen series is a key part of our lineup. We’re examining how successful the Pen series has been, but the OM-3 is not a replacement for the Pen. The Pen series continues to be vital to our offerings, and we are actively thinking about what new Pen model we can provide as OM System.”
Future Directions for the Pen Series
This indicates that any upcoming compact Pen camera will likely still utilize the Micro Four Thirds system. Additional comments from the same interview imply that OM System plans to appeal to a broad audience with the next Pen camera.
“We want to ensure that photographers find joy in using the camera. We’re really looking into what kind of product may be more appealing for new users. Some might still prefer their smartphones, but might have a budding interest in standalone cameras.”
OM System will then be going head-to-head with products like the Canon PowerShot V1, the recently revealed PowerShot V3, and the Sony ZV-E10 II (currently priced at $998 on Amazon). These models target a demographic that focuses on compact cameras for their social media needs. Although it’s still quite early in the process, any camera aimed at this audience will probably need to be priced reasonably — somewhere between $900 and $1,500 — to resonate with most buyers.
Potential Features and Controls
OM System’s remarks about attracting smartphone users hint that they may choose to have simpler controls, similar to the film simulation dial on the Fujifilm X-T50 (currently available for $1,399 at Best Buy).
Source:
Link
Tags: Micro Four Thirds, Olympus Pen-F, OM System
March 10, 2025
Leica Lux Grip: Elevate Your iPhone Photography Skills
Key Takeaways
1. Enhanced Grip: The Lux Grip offers a secure hold for iPhones, mimicking the feel of a real Leica camera while ensuring stability in both portrait and landscape modes.
2. Long-lasting Battery: The grip’s internal battery supports up to 1,000 shots and recharges in two hours, making it ideal for on-the-go photographers.
3. Temperature Resilience: The Lux Grip operates effectively in a wide temperature range, from -10° C to 60° C (14° F to 140° F), suitable for various environments.
4. Exclusive App Access: Buyers receive 12 months of access to the Pro features of the Leica Lux App, enhancing photo editing with classic Leica aesthetics.
5. Pricing and Availability: The Leica Lux Grip is priced at €300/$329 and is available through Leica and authorized sellers.
Leica has introduced the Lux Grip designed for MagSafe Apple iPhones. This grip features an aluminum frame that brings a genuine Leica camera vibe to smartphones, while also offering added mechanical controls for a more hands-on photography experience.
Enhanced Grip for Better Control
Smartphones are usually made of glass, making them hard to hold securely. Although phone cases can improve grip, they don’t match the solid feeling of holding a real Leica camera. The Lux Grip guarantees a firm hold, whether you’re using the iPhone in vertical (portrait) or horizontal (landscape) mode, and it weighs just 130 grams (4.59 oz.). Photographers can trust the robust MagSafe connection to prevent accidental drops.
Long-lasting Battery Life
The internal battery of the grip allows for 1,000 shots before it needs a two-hour recharge with any USB-C power source. This feature is particularly reassuring for bloggers and vloggers, as the grip functions well in temperatures ranging from -10° C to 60° C (14° F to 140° F) around the globe.
Exclusive App Benefits
Purchasing the Leica Lux Grip gives customers a 12-month access to the Pro features of the Leica Lux App. All buyers of the grip can also use the Lux App for free. This app enables users to create the classic Leica aesthetic in their images, offering various color modes (Leica Classic, Contemporary, Black & White, Vivid, or Leica I Model A), complete manual control, and emulation of traditional Leica lens qualities like the Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 (available on Amazon).
The Leica Lux Grip is priced at €300/$329 and can be obtained from Leica and its authorized sellers.
Source:
Link
Tags: iPhone Photography, Leica Lux Grip, MagSafe
March 8, 2025
HaoHan FireFly Drone: Tilt Rotors, Airplane Design, 56-Mile Range
Key Takeaways
1. The HaoHan FireFly features a unique airplane-like design with tilting rotors, allowing for vertical takeoff and landing.
2. The drone can travel up to 56 miles on a single charge with an optional larger battery, maintaining a speed of around 35 mph.
3. Weighing between 3.3 to 4 lbs, the FireFly is aimed at a more professional audience.
4. The remote control has a range of up to 9.3 miles under ideal conditions.
5. The FireFly does not come with built-in cameras but has a mount for action cameras and can accommodate additional camera modules.
The majority of drones on the market today utilize a quadcopter design, characterized by four separate rotors. These rotors are responsible for steering the drone, eliminating the need for extra rudders. In contrast, the new HaoHan FireFly is designed more like a small airplane with rotors that can tilt.
Unique Design Features
This unique design enables the FireFly to take off and land vertically, much like a typical quadcopter. After it has taken off, the rotors can be tilted forward, which, according to the manufacturer, leads to decreased energy usage while flying. When equipped with an optional larger battery, this drone is said to travel up to 56 miles on a single charge, provided it maintains a maximum speed of around 35 miles per hour.
Heavyweight Performance
Not surprisingly, the drone has a significant weight, ranging from 3.3 to 4 lbs depending on its setup, indicating that HaoHan is targeting a more professional audience. In ideal conditions, the remote control can reach as far as 9.3 miles.
Camera Options
Unlike DJI drones, the HaoHan FireFly does not come with built-in cameras. Instead, it features a mount designed for action cameras, and various additional camera modules can be added to the front. However, these camera options are not currently available. The dimensions of the drone are 42.5 x 27.2 x 14.8 inches, and it can be taken apart to fit into a case of about 23 x 18 x 10 inches.
Source:
Link
Tags: action camera mount, HaoHan FireFly, tilt rotors
March 8, 2025
New Canon EOS RV Leaks: Compact Hybrid Camera with APS-C Sensor
Key Takeaways
1. Canon is set to launch more compact cameras, including the recently leaked PowerShot V3 and the EOS RV with interchangeable lenses.
2. The Canon EOS RV may compete with the Sony ZV-E10 II and is expected to feature a 24 MP sensor similar to the EOS M50 II.
3. The EOS RV will include ergonomic and video features, such as multiple ports, a front microphone button, and various tactile controls.
4. Despite its compact size, the EOS RV will have a significant hand grip and a side-mounted 1/4-inch thread for accessories, but no electronic viewfinder (EVF) is expected.
5. The design aims to balance enthusiast-level video capabilities with user-friendly features, making it suitable for travel and street photography.
Canon seems to be sticking to its word about launching more compact cameras in the near future. We’ve already observed the Canon PowerShot V1, and just recently, there’s been a leak about the PowerShot V3, which serves as a power-zoom option. Now, it looks like we might finally see the “new form factor” that earlier leaks hinted at.
Interchangeable Lens Development
A fresh batch of leaks suggests that Canon is working on a compact camera with interchangeable lenses under the EOS line, rather than the newly updated PowerShot V series. These leaks are regarding the Canon EOS RV (possibly standing for EOS R Video?), which might be Canon’s attempt to go head-to-head with the Sony ZV-E10 II.
Sources of Information
Currently, two main sources are shedding light on the Canon EOS RV: CanonRumors and The New Camera. The latter claims to have a preliminary spec sheet for the EOS RV, although the authenticity of this information is uncertain, considering how early in the leak process we are. Nevertheless, the leaked specs indicate that the Canon EOS RV will come equipped with a 24 MP sensor, resembling that of the Canon EOS M50 II, which is available for $994.95 on Amazon. The leaked images show the sensor positioned behind a lens mount, but it’s not clear whether it’s an EF-M mount or the larger RF mount.
Ergonomics and Features
The EOS RV appears to be loaded with ergonomic and video features, boasting numerous ports, a front-mounted microphone button, and plenty of tactile controls. On the top, there seems to be a hot shoe for accessories, large openings for a built-in microphone system, and several dials. The shutter is integrated into what seems like a zoom lever, positioned in front of two dials—one being a mode dial and the other an unlabelled programmable option.
Compact Size and Grip
Despite its compact design, the EOS RV also looks like it will have a sizeable hand grip, addressing a common gripe among compact camera users. Additionally, there appears to be a side-mounted 1/4-inch thread for tripods, grips, and other accessories. However, it seems that there won’t be an EVF included.
From what we can infer from these specifications and the leaked images, the Canon EOS RV seems poised to strike a balance between enthusiast-level video capabilities and a form factor that would attract general users, making it suitable for high-quality travel or street photography.
Source:
Link
Tags: Canon EOS RV, compact camera, PowerShot V3
March 8, 2025
Quirky Escura InstantSnap Camera: Instant Photos with Open Frame Viewfinder
Key Takeaways
1. Escura Camera introduced the InstantSnap, a lightweight digital camera with a 1.3 MP sensor, at Japan’s CP+ 2025 camera show.
2. The camera lacks an LCD screen and uses a framing cutout instead, adding a playful challenge to composing shots.
3. It features a shutter button and a switch for a questionable video mode, along with options for effects and frames.
4. A special ‘Showa Model’ variant offers retro designs and unique effects, appealing to nostalgic users.
5. The InstantSnap will launch in May for 7,000 yen (~$47), but users may find better value in practical options like toy instant cameras.
Escura Camera, known for its instant film back for Hasselblad cameras, has introduced a unique digital camera that resembles an instant photo. The Escura InstantSnap was revealed at Japan’s CP+ 2025 camera show and features a lightweight design, weighing only 28 grams, with a basic 1.3 MP camera inside.
Framing Your Shot
This camera doesn’t come with an LCD screen. Instead, it has a cutout in its credit-card sized body, which you must align with your subject to get the perfect frame. While getting the framing right may be a challenge at first, this unpredictability adds to the fun of using a toy camera such as this one.
Features and Drawbacks
Besides the shutter button, the InstantSnap includes a small switch that lets you toggle between a (somewhat questionable) video mode or apply effects and frames to your photos. However, don’t expect too much from the tiny 1.3 MP sensor with a fixed shutter speed, and what looks like a 3.2mm f/2.8 lens, as mentioned by PetaPixel.
Retro Vibes
Additionally, there’s a ‘Showa Model’ that features some cool retro designs on its otherwise plain body, along with special frames and effects.
The Escura InstantSnap is set to launch in May for 7,000 yen, approximately $47. While it’s an adorable and eye-catching gadget, you might find better value in something a bit more practical, like a toy instant camera aimed at kids. For just a little more, you could also opt for the Kodak Printomatic instant camera.
Source:
Link
Tags: CP+ 2025, Escura InstantSnap, toy camera
March 7, 2025
Fujifilm GFX 100 RF Leaked Photos Ahead of March 20 Announcement
Key Takeaways
1. The Fujifilm GFX 100 RF is a compact medium format camera with a sensor size 67% larger than full-frame sensors.
2. It features a simple black exterior, an electronic viewfinder, and dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, along with a new aspect ratio dial and a crop lever for digital zoom.
3. The official announcement is set for March 20 during the Fujifilm X Summit in Prague, with a launch price expected around $5,000.
4. The camera will include a 100 MP medium format sensor paired with a 35 mm f/4 lens, equivalent to a 28 mm f/3.2 lens in 35 mm format.
5. The lens is likely not interchangeable, which may limit its performance in low-light conditions compared to competitors like the Leica Q3.
After many details leaked about the Fujifilm GFX 100 RF last December, Andrea Pizzini and FujiRumors have now shared the first two images thought to show the compact medium format camera. It is said that the camera will be just a little bigger than the Fujifilm X-Pro 3 or Leica Q3, even though its sensor size is 43.9 x 32.9 mm (~1.7 x 1.3 in), which is 67% larger than a full-frame sensor.
Design and Features
Fujifilm has chosen a fairly simple, black exterior that showcases the typical Fuji style, managing to include an electronic viewfinder within the camera’s small form factor. The camera features specific dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation. A notable new addition is a dial on the back that allows users to choose the aspect ratio when taking pictures. There’s also an interesting “crop lever” that enables users to activate digital zoom.
Official Announcement
In the teaser video shared below, Fujifilm has all but confirmed that the GFX 100 RF will be officially revealed on March 20 during the Fujifilm X Summit in Prague. The expected launch price is around $5,000, and it will come with a 100 MP medium format sensor paired with a 35 mm f/4 lens, which is equivalent to a 28 mm f/3.2 lens in 35 mm format.
Should the rumors hold true, such a slow lens could undermine the advantages of having a larger sensor. For example, the Leica Q3 utilizes a full-frame sensor and a 28 mm f/1.7 lens to produce low-noise images in dim lighting and create a shallow depth of field. The lens on the Fujifilm GFX 100 RF is likely not interchangeable, or at least there doesn’t appear to be a button for that.
Source:
Link
Tags: Fujifilm GFX 100 RF, Medium-format Camera, photography gear
March 5, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Leaks Reveal Camera Upgrades Over Mavic 3 Pro
Key Takeaways
1. DJI is preparing to launch a new consumer drone, the Mavic 4 Pro, following recent product releases like the Osmo Mobile 7.
2. High-quality photos of the Mavic 4 Pro’s exterior have been leaked, but official specifications are not expected soon.
3. The Mavic 4 Pro will feature a camera housing that can rotate 180 degrees, enhancing its versatility.
4. The drone will offer multiple zoom levels: 1.4x, 2.5x, and 6x.
5. The tilt capability of the Mavic 4 Pro will be improved to 70 degrees, up from 35 degrees in the Mavic 3 series.
It appears that DJI is getting ready to launch a new consumer drone. This year, the company has been busy working on other products like the Osmo Mobile 7 and Osmo Mobile 7P, which currently costs $149 on Amazon. Although DJI has not officially announced any new products yet, leaks have surfaced with exciting information about the upcoming Mavic 4 Pro, expected to be the next drone from DJI.
New Details Emerge
Recently, Quadro News shared some high-quality photos of the drone’s exterior, which can be seen below. The leaker mentioned that we likely won’t be seeing any official specs soon, which makes us wonder when the Mavic 4 Pro will actually hit the market.
Exciting Camera Features
In other news, Jasper Ellens disclosed that the upcoming Mavic drone will feature a camera housing that can rotate 180 degrees, offering zoom levels of 1.4x, 2.5x, and 6x. Ellens highlighted that this 180-degree rotation would allow the Mavic 4 Pro to capture images vertically, either above or below it while flying. Additionally, it will have a tilt capability of up to 70 degrees, a significant improvement over the 35 degrees available in the Mavic 3 series.
Source:
Link
Tags: DJI, Mavic 4 Pro, Osmo Mobile 7
March 4, 2025
Panasonic Set to Launch Compact Camera to Compete with Canon V1
Key Takeaways
1. Compact, fixed-lens cameras are gaining popularity again, with models like Fujifilm X100 series and Ricoh GR III leading the trend on social media.
2. Panasonic is developing a new versatile fixed-lens camera, likely an LX100 III, with a Micro Four Thirds sensor, responding to market demand.
3. The company aims to focus its next fixed-lens camera on general use, moving beyond specialized models for wildlife photography.
4. Competitive pricing will be crucial for Panasonic’s LX100 III, especially against rivals like Canon PowerShot V1 and Sony ZV-E10 II.
5. The demand for compact cameras remains strong, as seen by the continued higher prices for older models like the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II.
Compact, fixed-lens cameras seems to be coming back in style, partly due to the growing popularity of models like the Fujifilm X100 series and Ricoh GR III on social media platforms. Recently, Canon has re-entered the market with the Canon PowerShot V1, and it appears Panasonic is preparing to follow suit with a new fixed-lens camera that is nearly confirmed.
Panasonic’s New Development
During a recent discussion with Fegniao at CP+ 2025, Panasonic’s leaders stated that they are currently working on a versatile fixed-lens camera, although the exact release date remains uncertain. This development closely resembles the Panasonic Lumix LX100 series, and it would make the most sense to expect an LX100 III featuring a Micro Four Thirds sensor, especially considering the rise of APS-C cameras and Canon’s new 1.4-inch sensor embedded in the PowerShot V1 and the anticipated PowerShot V3.
Market Trends
Panasonic is well aware of the recovering demand in the fixed-lens camera sector. In light of this shift in consumer interest, the company is enthusiastic about the fixed-lens market and is actively planning to introduce new models. While the specific launch timing for these products isn’t yet clear, it’s evident that Panasonic is undertaking thorough consideration and strategy in this domain. -Fegniao (machine translation)
The executive team from Panasonic particularly highlights the achievements of the ZS99 and FZ80D, which are bridge cameras primarily designed for amateur bird and wildlife photography due to their impressive zoom capabilities. However, they also mention that the next fixed-lens camera will focus more on general use. Panasonic makes comparisons between smartphone photography and dedicated cameras, promoting the superior image quality and performance that dedicated cameras can offer over the more convenient smartphone alternatives.
Competitive Pricing Needed
Should Panasonic release an upgraded LX100 III, it will have to be very competitive in terms of pricing, considering the current market demand and its rivals. Besides the previously mentioned Canon PowerShot V1, which is expected to be priced between $900 and $1,000 in Western markets, Sony’s ZV-E10 II meets many similar needs at a cost of $1,098, complete with a 16–50 mm F3.5–5.6 kit lens.
Even though it launched back in 2018 with a retail price of $999, the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II is still found on platforms like Amazon for as much as $1,199 in used condition, clearly indicating that there is still a strong demand for compact cameras with a good-sized sensor.
Source:
Link
Tags: Canon PowerShot V1, Fujifilm X100, Panasonic Lumix LX100 III
March 4, 2025
Viltrox Launches 25mm F1.7 Lens for Travel and Street Photography
Key Takeaways
1. Lightweight Design: The Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air weighs only 170g, making it highly portable and ideal for photographers on the go.
2. Versatile Focal Length: It offers an effective focal length of 38mm, striking a balance between standard and wide-angle perspectives, suitable for various photography styles.
3. Excellent Low-Light Performance: The F1.7 aperture allows for great performance in low-light conditions and produces beautiful bokeh with its nine-blade diaphragm.
4. Advanced Autofocus Features: The lens includes a stepping motor for smooth and quiet autofocus, with eye and face detection, making it great for portraits and videos.
5. Affordable Pricing: The Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air is priced at $176 / €189 / £165, offering good value for both hobbyists and content creators.
Viltrox has introduced the AF 25mm F1.7 Air, a lightweight and compact prime lens made specifically for APS-C cameras. This lens comes in mounts for Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Nikon Z, offering a great mix of portability, performance, and cost, appealing to both hobbyist photographers and content creators alike.
Specifications of the Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air
Viltrox is really pushing the idea of “lightweight without sacrifice.” Weighing in at a mere 170g, the AF 25mm F1.7 Air is almost as light as a smartphone, making it perfect for photographers on the move. The design eliminates unnecessary weight while keeping a robust metal mount, giving it a solid but travel-friendly feel. By not including an aperture ring, the lens keeps things simple, with settings adjusted directly through the camera.
Focal Length and Performance
With an effective focal length of 38mm in full-frame terms, this lens finds a nice balance between standard and wide-angle perspectives. The generous F1.7 aperture excels in low-light situations and produces lovely bokeh, thanks to its nine-blade diaphragm. Internally, it boasts a 12-element, 10-group layout, which features extra-low dispersion and high-refractive index elements to minimize chromatic aberrations while ensuring crisp, high-contrast images.
Autofocus and Video Capabilities
Viltrox has included a stepping motor (STM) in the AF 25mm F1.7 Air that provides smooth, quiet, and precise autofocus. It supports both eye and face detection autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for street photography, portraits, and vlogs. The autofocus system is quick on compatible camera bodies, easily tracking subjects in both photo and video modes.
For videographers, the minimal focus breathing is a significant advantage, as it avoids distracting changes in framing during focus adjustments. When paired with in-body stabilization from compatible cameras, this lens delivers smooth, handheld shooting without too much shake. The nearly silent autofocus also helps in capturing clear audio while recording.
Pricing and Availability
The Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air is now on the market with a price tag of $176 / €189 / £165.
Tags: APS-C cameras, lightweight lens, Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air
March 4, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Launching This Spring with LiDAR Technology
Key Takeaways
1. The Mavic 4 series will include a Mavic 4 Pro and a Cine version, rather than a standard Mavic 4 model.
2. The Mavic 4 Pro is expected to feature a LiDAR sensor for the first time.
3. The Mavic 4 Pro may offer flight times of approximately 50 minutes with its new Intelligent Flight Battery.
4. Accessories such as Cellular and RC Pro options, along with a 240 W desktop charger, are anticipated for the Mavic 4 series.
5. The official launch of the Mavic 4 series could occur as early as April 20.
New info about the Mavic 4 series has come out online, marking over four years since DJI introduced the Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Cine. Until not long ago, it looked like DJI was going to replace both models directly. However, recent months have suggested that the company is working on a successor for the Mavic 3 Pro, which is still less than two years old and is currently priced at $2,199 on Amazon.
Launch Speculations
According to fresh rumors, the Mavic 4 Pro will not debut with a less expensive Mavic 4. Instead, it seems that the standard Mavic 4 Pro will be accompanied by a Cine version. Furthermore, the Mavic 4 Pro Cine will likely come with the Mavic 4 Intelligent Flight Battery, which will probably support the Mavic 4 at some point as well. An image shared on X by @Quadro_News also points to the upcoming release of Cellular and RC Pro accessories, along with a 240 W desktop charger.
New Design Features
In the meantime, YueYue has posted what DroneXL calls a ‘final product image’ of DJI’s upcoming high-end consumer drone. Although the overall design of the Mavic 4 Pro was already familiar, this new image seems to indicate the inclusion of a LiDAR sensor for the first time. DroneXL reports that the Mavic 4 Pro is expected to offer around 50-minute flight times from its Intelligent Flight Battery and may officially launch as early as April 20.
Conclusion
With these exciting developments, the anticipation for the Mavic 4 series continues to grow among drone enthusiasts. As more details emerge, it will be interesting to see how DJI positions these new models in the market.
Source:
Link

Tags: DJI, LiDAR sensor, Mavic 4 Pro