Targus 15” Newport Backpack – Stylish, Compact and Practical Backpack 

First and foremost, you might think, heh that’s a very stylish backpack, it looks kind of small in size though, can it really fit all my daily stuff that I bring out to my office, school or my daily lifestyle? 

Don’t worry at all, look at how I placed my daily items such as a 1.1L water bottle, Apple MacBook Air, Apple iPad Air, notebook, pencil case and other personal items into the Targus 15” Newport Backpack. You can place your Targus 15” Newport Backpack on top of your luggage handle when you are traveling out for business trips or for a leisure holiday. 

The Targus 15” Newport Backpack is ideal for working professionals who are on the move, stylish, compact and practical backpack. 

What’s the story behind Hpility SG with two Targus Newport Collection backpacks?

Hpility SG has a Targus Newport collection backpack too! He chose the Newport Convertible Tote/Backpack, an interesting hybrid design between a tote bag and backpack. I reckon this design would appeal to those who likes to use it a tote bag for different occasions and converting it into a backpack when the need arises. 

There are a total of 6 new range of Targus Newport collection products including backpacks, sleeves and tote bags. There is something for you to choose from, whether you are a working professional or you are using it for your own personal daily use bag.

Do visit Targus website and check out the full range of Targus Newport Collection! 

The Targus Newport starts from SGD$69 and they are available at the following fine retailers:

Retail: Harvey Norman, Popular Bookstore, Challenger, Tangs Vivo

Online: Krisshop, Shopee, Lazada, Zalora, Hachi Tech 

The post Targus 15” Newport Backpack – Stylish, Compact and Practical Backpack appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photo credit: Isaac Ong

While we were taking photographs of the local wildlife, a moth was flying around me and landed on my Canon EOS RP and EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM II lens! I was pleasantly surprised that a moth would choose to land on me! I quickly asked Isaac to help me photograph this priceless moment, the moth flew away and landed on my ThinkTank lens pouch before it flew away from us.

Photo credit: Isaac Ong 

The last time a moth had such an impact on me was on the eve of my paternal grandmother’s death anniversary in November 2019. Our extended family gathered in the living room of my Uncle’s home, we were relaxing, chatting with each other and catching up. A moth flew into the room, landed on the wall, above the family altar. My auntie said, “That’s your grandmother returning to visit us!” 

For some people, the significance of a moth appearing has different meanings and views. I came across this article, “Moth Meaning and Symbolism: The Mysterious Spirit Messenger” by Crystal Clear Intuition. This article gave quite comprehensive insights into the meaning of moth, symbolism and what it means when it lands on us. 

Personally, when this moth landed on me, is both a blessing and omen for me. For those who missed out on what really happened to me during the past few weeks, I was not in a very good shape at all, both mentally and emotionally. That was during Phase 2 Heightened Alert, I wrote about my Reflection, Thoughts and Feelings, along with my poetic visual storytelling on fate, time, ikigai and personal struggles. On top of that, I had a few very personal situations/matters that overwhelmed me into a tipping point that I almost spiral downwards. If it wasn’t for a few friends (Chef Keith, old primary school classmates Michael and Wendy, photographers Ryan and Isaac and a special mention to my cousin-in-law Tiffany for lending me her listening ear) who pulled me out from the rut, the situation might be worse for me. 

As I climbed my way out from the bottom, slowly clearing my mind, thoughts, emotions and hurt. The battles are still ongoing in the aspect of running and managing my photography business. I was constantly reminded, “Survival first, followed by love yourself and take care of yourself first. The rest can come later.”

Taking small steps, through nature and forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku 森林浴) with my photography therapy in the following two weeks after 7th June, I slowly climbed my way out from the bottom. I prioritised the battles to take on and fight. First and foremost, survival. Meeting people to discuss business, partnerships and collaborations over different days when Phase 3 Heightened Alert with 2 pax dining started, there were small changes and good things coming to me in small ways in one way or another. 

Photo credit: Isaac Ong

As I was trekking through MacRitchie Reservoir Park/Central Catchment Nature Reserve, I looked up above the rainforest canopy, the light shining upon me from above through the leaves, this is Komorebi (木漏れ日) that I have been seeking. 

Are all these blessing and omens the turning point for me? Is there light at the end of the tunnel for me and for the world, as we are all battling this global pandemic situation that has caused such massive impacts to our economy and daily living? Was the appearance of this moth landing on me not just a coincidence, it’s also carrying a message of both blessing and omen for me, to remind and encourage me to keep on striving forward and grab hold of the opportunities with both hands when they appear? 

I am still hurting inside, there is something that cannot be said, leaving it to fate and time. My life and business journey continues, the constant battles continue in the wake of this ongoing global pandemic as well.

That moth has probably sent me some messages for me to decipher, discover and embrace the blessings and omens from above. However, I still have to work very hard to fulfil them and make them come true for me. 

Photo credit: Isaac Ong

Let’s keep on striving and moving forward in this very difficult and trying times.      

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Sourdough Toast

First and foremost on their menu, they are the “Basics”, the bread, sourdough toast and pancakes. I heard about sourdough bread previously, I haven’t tried it before as my usual choice of bread would be white or wholemeal bread. 

As I had my first taste of sourdough toast, I was also enlightened on the health benefits of eating sourdough too. It’s baked fresh daily, the aroma, fragrance and fresh hot from the oven, you would probably become a sourdough bread convert like me too.

“Heart Attack” French Toast! With Berries

This is not your traditional French Toast, it looks very different. When I tasted this unique “Heart Attack” French Toast, I was very impressed and I absolutely loved this! Crispy and crunchy on the outside, not too oily, soft and tender on the inside. 

A sourdough brioche soaked with eggs and cream batter, fried and finished with cinnamon sugar on the plate and maple flavoured syrup on top of it, along with side of plain yoghurt. 

When you visit The Fabulous Baker Boy, you have to try this, I reckon you would like this “Heart Attack” French Toast as much as I did!

FAB Duck Confit 

Their Duck Confit is not just another Duck Confit, it’s a FAB Duck Confit. This is a slow-cooked whole leg of a duck, observe the skin, it’s crispy and deliciously torched without overdoing it! The duck leg meat is soft and tender, cooked to perfection! 

The FAB Duck Confit is served on mash, with apricot and cranberry chutney. I would make sure that my duck leg meat is mixed with the mash and apricot and cranberry chutney before it goes into my mouth and tummy. This was so delicious that I didn’t leave a drop behind.

Cakes Galore at The Fabulous Baker Boy! 

For cake lovers, you would definitely be spoiled for choices when you are dining at The Fabulous Baker Boy, i have a feeling you might have a huge dilemma on which cakes should you choose to enjoy!

Remember to get a cuppa of coffee with your choice of cake! Now, it’s time to enjoy your desserts after a hearty, fabulous and delicious main course meal!

More than just Fabulous Food at The Fabulous Baker Boy

The Fabulous Baker Boy serves more than just delicious, fabulous food and drinks. They are a cosy and spacious cafe, family-oriented and friendly that the whole family would be able to enjoy, relax and have a good family bonding time over delicious food.

It was also an honour to meet Chef Juwanda in person, we had a very good chat and I learnt more about his journeys in his cooking and baking. He has a very high level of enthusiasm, passion and love for food, cooking and baking. All those can be felt through the heart, mind, soul and of course inside the cuisine that he serves at The Fabulous Baker Boy. 

We also had a deeper conversation on the topics such as different cuisines and the food industry. I have met a few very passionate food business owners who takes huge pride and love for their food, Chef Juwanda is one of them. A follow up foodie chat/sharing article with Chef Junwada is on the cards for me! 

Back to the topic of fabulous food at The Fabulous Baker Boy, there are still many more choices on their menu for me to visit again and try the other delicious food on offer. I would love to “conquer” all of Chef Juwanda’s extensive list of cakes on his menu and his cakes do deserve celebrity status not just for some of its unique creations and names.  

For more information on The Fabulous Baker Boy, you can check them out below:

Website: https://www.thefabulousbakerboy.com/ 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Thefabbakerboy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabulousbakerboy/ 

I would like to thank The Fabulous Baker Boy and Empower Marketing Asia for the invitation and warmest hospitality in hosting this food visit session.

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The story behind Sebati

A husband and wife team with a vision to spread goodness and empowerment through their delicious cooking/baking, bringing love, joy and celebrations to your home through their fresh and wholesome Shepherd’s Pies and other sweet delights. When you get to taste their bakes and cooking, you can feel their love and passion inside the pies and bakes that they serve.

Sebati Shepherd’s Pie

What do they have? Customers can choose from these four options below:

1) Classic (Fillings: choice of beef or chicken)

2) Black Pepper (Fillings: choice of beef or chicken)

3) All Vege

4) Monthly Special

There are two sizes to choose from, personal and party. For personal size, it’s a 7 x 3 inch aluminium tray, serves 1-2 people, while the party size, it’s a 7 x 7 inch aluminium tray, serves 4-5 people.

What did we order?

After looking through the choices, I decided to go for the All Vege and July Special: Satay Shepherd’s Pie with chicken filling. While I am more familiar with the old school square shaped Shepherd’s Pie, the world of Shepherd’s Pie can come in various shapes and sizes, from round, to square or rectangular in shape.

Sebati Shepherd’s Pie, their crust/topping of mashed potato are really very nicely baked. The softness of the mashed potato is just nice without being too mushy or too dry. The All Vege has broccoli, cheddar and mozzarella cheese and aromatic mirepoix. You can feel and taste the fresh vegetables baked inside this All Vege Shepherd’s Pie, filling and delicious.

As for their July Special Satay Shepherd’s Pie, this combination is very interesting and intriguing, a fusion of local Southeast Asian and Western food, a combination that is not that easy to merge  two different cuisines together. Our satay cuisine in Southeast Asia can have a strong body flavour taste on the meats and not to mention the satay gravy. Sebati July Special Satay Shepherd’s Pie manages to blend them with a good amount of satay flavour taste without overpowering the Shepherd’s Pie.

More than Shepherd’s Pie, they have sweet stuff

Do check out their other selections on their website, they have sweet delights such as double chocolate pie bar, chocoflakes and snowflakes, they look very delicious and it’s tempting me very badly.

Support local food business!

Running my own sole proprietorship photography business, I know how challenging and tough it can be running a small business. I have been supporting food businesses operated by my friends and I try my best to help them in whatever way possible, from tasting, review, social media sharing, food photography projects etc.

Do visit Sebati website and instagram below, check out their menu and order away!

Sebati

Website: https://www.sebati.sg/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sebati.sg/

I would like to thank SEBATI for this food tasting opportunity and thanks to fellow techie/photographer/Liverpool FC supporter friend Hisham for introducing me to Sebati.

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First and foremost, let me share with you more information on the Canon PIXMA TS6370 printer.

“The latest stylish additions to the PIXMA printer family takes home printing to a whole new level,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore. “With a multitude of

new features at their fingertips, users are able to perform a variety of tasks and discover new and creative ways to print from the comfort of their homes. We hope to empower every home user with high-quality printing and provide them with the imaging solutions they need.”

Product Specifications PIXMA TS6370

Now, let me bring you into my printing experiences with the Canon PIXMA TS6370 printer

Print

As a photographer doing a printer review, printed A3 photography prints and published my own photo book, this segment gets the most attention, detail and scrutiny from me. Having previously reviewed the Canon PRO-10 printer before purchasing my own Canon PRO-10 printer for my own photography printing, I might have higher expectations and demands on photography prints.

Printing photographs on the PIXMA TS6370

The PIXMA TS6370 can print up to A4 size photo paper, the printing speed was pretty fast for a home all-in-one printer. I printed different photos on the Canon PP-208 4 X 6” Photo Paper Plus Glossy II that were provided for my review.

For my colour prints, I like the prints output, colours were accurate. While for the black and white photo prints, it didn’t meet my requirements. Although I have to side track and highlight that black and white printing is “a big and independent segment of printing world”. For those who are keen on black and white photo printing, the Canon PRO-10, PRO-1 and ImagePROGRAF PRO-500 (a printer that I am considering to upgrade from my PRO-10) are the printers for you to look at!

Creative Printing

Since the birth of digital photography and smartphone photography, there was a period whereby the art and love for printing were lost when users were glued to their smartphones, tablets, laptops and monitors. However, as technology progresses along with users getting jaded with just viewing, there was a resurgence in printing, from small pocket sized prints to the large prints.

Canon had a full suite of creative printing opportunities, from the new ways to print: Iron-On Transfer Media and Double-Sided Matte Papers, along with other creative print media options such as Canon magnetic photo paper, photo stickers. This full suite of creative printing media along with the PIXMA TS6370 printer, opens up family fun, artistic, creative and bonding time with their children.

Iron-On Transfer Media

The DF-101 Dark Fabric Iron-On Transfer Media were provided for my review. This was a segment that I was quite excited and curious about, how would the Iron-On Transfer Media turn out? I chose photographs from my collection as well as photographs provided by my nieces, we printed them out and ironed them onto the cotton fabric t-shirts and tote bags.

For a special type such as the Iron-On Transfer Media, it would not be fair to compare them directly with the normal photography prints. Overall, the Iron-On Transfer Media prints from the PIXMA TS6370 printer were sharp, you might see and feel that the colours is a bit different, probably due to the different type of medium and material.

There are a number of different methods to utilise Iron-On Transfer Media, from printing a full A4 size and iron onto the fabric, or using the Creative Park app templates. This would also be a good family activity time, printing and creating your own Iron-On photos/designs t-shirt or tote bags.

Insider Tips on using Iron-On Transfer Media:

• Follow the instructions closely on how to prepare and iron-on the media to the fabric
• Follow the washing tips and precautions for fabrics with the Iron-On Transfer Media
• Remember to peel the back of the Iron-On Transfer Media before using the iron on them

Printing a Photo Zine with PIXMA TS6370

I had been planning to publish my own photo zine for some years, it took me a while after some procrastination and distractions, that I finally published and printed my own trial/pre-launch photo zine with the PIXMA TS6370 printer.  For fellow photographers and creatives, who like to DIY and print your own zine, the PIXMA TS6370 is more than capable with its duplex printing capabilities and print output quality.

I printed directly from my MacBook Pro, my photo zine was saved as a pdf file, I chose booklet option setting, printed my zine out, duplex printing before putting them together with staples, a very personal fulfilling DIY photography project brought to life with the PIXMA TS6370 printer.

Scan

Although most smartphones can scan with their smartphone camera and smartphone app, don’t underestimate the quality and accessibility of a scanner, like the all-in-one PIXMA TS6370, just put your document on the scanner and let them do the job for you, instead of positioning your document and taking photo with the smartphone.

It’s pretty fast, easy to use and you can check it on the Canon printing apps before saving it to your camera roll on your smartphone or tablet.

Copy

This compact all-in-one PIXMA TS6370 is suitable for your home or small office, when you need to copy and print documents, it’s easy to use and pretty fast too.

Connectivity and Setup

The PIXMA TS6370 printer is a modern printer that allows users with numerous ways to connect and print. They are equipped with a Wireless Connect button that aids in Wi-Fi setup, wireless direct technology that allow direct connection to mobile devices without a wireless router.

They also have the latest feature to be added, compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, which enables voice activated printing. This was something that I didn’t get to try using when I had the printer for review.

While my experience in setting up the printer connection wasn’t that smooth, once it was connected and properly setup with the Wi-Fi network, printing from the Canon apps on my iPhone XR, iPad Air 3 and MacBook Pro was smooth sailing and easy to use.

Through the Canon Print App, you can check on the ink levels of the PIXMA TS6370 printer, making it easier for you to know the time when you need to replace the inks cartridges.

Pricing and Availability

The retail recommended price is S$239 in Navy Blue Colour is available at all Canon authorised dealers.

Summary of Thoughts and Views on the PIXMA TS6370

• A value for money compact sized multi-purpose and connectivity printer, for home, small office, fun and creative usage.
• Pretty good quality photo printer for home and leisure use
• Fast printing and scanning
• Fun and creative printer for family fun, activities, journaling, creative art works
• 1.44” OLED screen is a bit too small for my liking, keys and buttons, user-interface are not to my liking as well.
• The Canon apps Creative Park and Print apps make it easy for users to use the PIXMA TS6370 for print, scan, copy and creative fun.

If you are looking for a home use or small office all-in-one printer, you can consider the PIXMA TS6370. I reckon this is a value for money multi-purpose all-in-one printer ideal for both home, small office and family bonding time for creative, artistic and fun prints.

• I would like to thank Canon Singapore and Ogilvy for the opportunity to review the Canon PIXMA TS6370 printer. *

The Canon PIXMA TS6370 review was shot with the Canon EOS RP, a TGH Photography x Canon EOS RP Explorer Series Production.

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At the Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends, an exhibition held at National Gallery Singapore from 6th December 2019 to 28th June 2020. There are close to 100 photographic works alongside archival materials, displaying the history and development of photography in Singapore, an area that is traditionally overlooked. Mr Chua Soo Bin photography works, tells more than just complex stories of his subjects. His portraiture artworks displayed great trust, close relationship and being up close and personal with the subjects and surroundings, through the Legends Series Photographs.

“Spotlighting the works of Singapore artists and educating the public of their artistic practices continue to be a priority for the Gallery. While photography has traditionally been under-researched in Singapore, it has played a significant role in our art history. The iconic works of Chua Soo Bin are excellent examples of the potential of photography as an art form. It has been exactly three decades since Legends was completed. We hope that this retrospective will raise awareness of Chua’s significant contributions to Singapore’s art scene as a photographer, a gallerist, art dealer and art patron. At the same time, visitors will be inspired to learn more about Singapore’s very own photographers and reflect on the changing role of photography,” said Dr Eugene Tan, Director of National Gallery Singapore.

Now, let me bring you a short walk through into this amazing artistic photography world of Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends

First Section: The Legends Series Photographs

The portraits of 14 ink masters, showcasing their portraitures, life, intimate moments and insights to a global audience through the eyes of Singaporean master photographer Chua Soo Bin.    

Second Section: Candid and informal portraits of Wu Guanzhong

A collection of photography artworks, candid and informal portraits of modern Chinese ink artist Wu Guanzhong over two decades. The trust and rapport between artist and photographer is more than just special, beyond amazing, reflected through this collection of photographs.

Third Section: The life and journey of Master Photographer Chua Soo Bin

In this final third section, we learnt a lot more about Master Photographer Chua Soo Bin life, career and his commercial photography works.

A short Q&A session with Master Photographer Chua Soo Bin

During the preview session of Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends, we had the honour of meeting the legend himself, master photographer Chua Soo Bin, who shared some insights of the photographs that were on display inside the gallery while we were on a short preview tour.

After that, we had a short Q&A session too, listening to his years of experience, not just in photography, the stories behind those portraitures and insights into the different eras of photography from film to digital.

My personal thoughts and feelings as a photographer

For all photographers out there, whether you are from the old school of film photography or a young person learning photography in today’s digital world, I strongly encourage you to visit Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends photography exhibition at National Gallery Singapore.

As the saying goes, a picture speaks a thousand words, when you visit this photography exhibition, you are not just walking into a master photographer’s eyes, works, and relationship with the person/people/environment. The portraits/photographs “speak to you” too, as you view the photography exhibition, a connection that bridge the photographer, subjects/people and their artworks across to you.

Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends, is a very inspiring photography exhibition, personally for me as a photographer. Having started my photography with film photography more than three decades back, viewing the photography prints shot on film cameras brought me back in time when it was just 36 frames in a roll of film and you had to print the photographs, versus the modern digital photography of today, instant gratification and sharing on social media.

I can continue writing and sharing, I feel that I would really like you to visit this truly special photography exhibition at National Gallery Singapore. I would just leave you with this quote below by the Master Photographer himself, that strikes a deep chord with me and my photography.

I would like to thank National Gallery Singapore and Tate Anzur for the invitation to the preview of Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends.

Information on Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends

Date: 6th December 2019 to 28th June 2020

Location: City Hall Wing, Level 4, Wu Guanzhong Gallery

Ticketing

General admission ticket required (Free for Singaporeans and PRs)

Chua Soo Bin: Truths & Legends is curated by Charmaine Toh from National Gallery Singapore. A series of complementary programmes through the course of the exhibition will also reflect the changing role of photography in today’s digital culture.

For more information, visit https://www.nationalgallery.sg/exhibitions/chua-soo-bin-truths-and-legends

* Information courtesy of National Gallery Singapore and Tate Anzur *

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A few months back in July 2019, I published an article titled, “Telling my stories with Canon RF35mm f/1.8”, a prelude to my Canon RF35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens review. Due to photography business, other work commitments and content creation on my technology and business portal/blog, the review article had been delayed till now.

The Canon RF35mm f/1.8 does not belong to the Canon’s legendary L lenses family, yet this lens would not lose out to them in terms of output/photo quality. It does not have weather sealing against dust and moisture, this is something that photographers would have to take note. Yet, when you touch and feel this lens, it gives you a solid and rugged feel.

They also have image stabiliser (IS), this would be very handy and useful for photographers. This lens uses the STM drive system, not the USM drive system. Personally, I would prefer the USM drive system, faster and less noise. There are times whereby the RF35mm f/1.8 is a bit slow on focusing, it took me some time to adapt to the character of the RF35mm f/1.8 lens.

Bokeh at f/1.8, personally for me, I really like it and I would use it creatively when the opportunity arises depending on the photography genre and situations. While some may want to compare it to a f/1.4 or f/1.2 lens, it would not be fair to the RF35mm f/1.8 lens.

As for the Macro function, the maximum magnification is 0.5x, as compared to the EF100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM lens magnification is 1x, do take note. The RF35mm f/1.8 has a minimum focusing distance of 0.17m, a very short distance to work on for your Macro photography. During the course of my review of this lens, I brought the RF35mm f/1.8 lens as close as possible to the subjects that I am shooting, there were some pretty nice photographs that I really liked.

While I was doing some technical specifications comparisons on the RF35mm f/1.8 lens with other Canon lenses, I saw that it has 9 Diaphragm blades, same number in some of the other Canon EF and RF L lenses. From the photographs that I shot using the RF35mm f/1.8 with Canon EOS RP, I am able to view the sharpness and quality of this lens.   

Thoughts and Views

A small lens, not too heavy at 305g, the classic 35mm focal length is probably one of the photographers favourite lens to work with/use, whether for street, wedding or travel. This lens is something that I like, a versatile lens for street, travel and wedding photography. Moreover, this lens has the Macro function, if and when you need to do Macro photography shoot.

I would consider getting this RF35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens, it’s really versatile and the bokeh at f/1.8 is pretty bokehlicious. With this lens on my Canon EOS RP, a lightweight combination for street and travel photography. At a retail price of SGD829, it’s quite a value for money lens given its versatility and sharp output quality.

More photographs of the Canon RF35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM review can be viewed here inside this Flickr photo album. If you are keen to own this lens, do visit Canon Singapore website!

There are currently more RF lenses available in the market, do follow my photography and travel portal/blog on Canon news, updates and reviews! I hope to get more opportunities to do more RF lenses review and share my photographs, views and thoughts on the lenses with my readers.

I would like to thank Canon Singapore and Ogilvy for the opportunity to review the Canon RF35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens.

The post Canon RF35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM Review appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

The 70-200mm focal length range is one of the most popular lens used by both professionals and leisure photographers around the world. It’s versatile and can be used in a number of photography genres including landscape photography. From events, portraiture, sports and wildlife photography, the 70-200mm lens is a “staple” lens for many photographers. For commercial photography work, the f/2.8 does make a difference, one of the reasons that made me changed from my EF70-200mm f/4 L USM to EF70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM a few years back.

The Canon 70-200mm L series lenses are really good, excellent quality and optics, for both the f/4 and f/2.8 series. One of my favourite lenses, the EF70-200mm f/4 was actually my second L lens and I used it for 10 years before upgrading to EF70-200mm f/2.8 for my commercial photography work. Canon has many years of professional experience and manufacturing quality in the L lenses, I am confident that this new RF70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM telephoto lens would continue on Canon’s 70-200mm L lenses legacy. 

With the announcement of the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, I would have options to add this to my Canon EOS RP setup or continue using my EF70-200mm f/2.8L lens with the adaptor. How I would want to build my Canon EOS RP and RF lenses setup, it’s still a work in progress (and a lot to strategise and plan) since I have my existing Canon EOS-1DX Mark II DSLR inside my setup.

For those who have just started/concentrating on the Canon EOS R and RF lenses system, you have less headache and can start to welcome the new RF lenses being announced and arriving into the market. The new RF L lenses announcements showed Canon’s commitment to the Canon EOS R and RF lenses lineup, I am looking forward to more lenses on their RF lenses roadmap!

Let me share with you more information and details on the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM telephoto lens:

“The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM completes Canon’s Zoom Trinity Lenses, the other two lenses  being the RF15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore. “The shooting range of the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is incredibly diverse with its ability to shoot from still portraits to fast-moving sporting activities. Together with its lightweight and compact body, the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM truly makes for an ideal partner in producing high quality images.”

Reduction in Overall Length and Weight

Compared to the well-established EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens (the existing EF mount model), the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is approximately 27% shorter and 28% lighter. In shooting situations, the lens and camera body combination is about 30% lighter compared to the existing EF lens and DSLR body combination. This would significantly help to lighten the load for shooting over a long period of time.

By using an extending zoom type design, coupled with the large diameter mount, short back focus and effective use of aspherical lenses, there is a significant reduction in the total length of the lens when it is at its shortest.

With a length of approximately 170.2mm when stored with its lens and dust cap, the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM can be easily stored in a camera backpack, leaving room for other lenses or equipment.

New Optical Design with Electronic Floating Focus System

With the large diameter and short back focus of the new EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera system, this significantly increases the degree of freedom in lens design compared to conventional EF lenses, while maintaining high image quality.

The new optical design of the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM consists of 17 elements in 13 groups, with two aspherical lenses, four UD lenses and one super UD lens. For the very first time, Canon is using an electronic float focus control in the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM that drives the two lens groups individually. This feature makes the lens more compact and reduces the minimum focusing distance from 1.2m to 0.7m. With electronic floating focus control, ‘breathing’ due to focus movement can also be reduced so movies can be shot with a stable composition.

The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is designed with Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC), a special coating that enables excellent anti-reflectivity. This coating effectively suppresses reflections in situations where the light source appears on the screen, reducing flaring and ghosting.

High Speed and Smooth AF for Still and Movie Shooting with Two Nano USMs

For the very first time on a Canon lens, two thumb sized ultrasonic motors known as Nano USM are included in the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM and used for the floating focus control. By using two Nano USMs for lens driving, a high degree of quietness, power saving, and high-speed operation are achieved while retaining the compact size. This also achieves high-speed, high-precision still image AF and smooth movie AF in combination with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF in the EOS R series cameras.

The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is equipped with an IS (lens-based image stabiliser) with a CIPA standard of five stops for still images. There are also three IS modes which are optimised for subject movement – IS mode 1 for still subjects, IS mode 2 for panning and IS mode 3 for irregular movement such as sports. 

Durable and Built to Last

As an L-series lens designed for professional use, the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM adopts unique extendable design that allows air to pass through but not dust and moisture. This ensures water and dust resistance which makes it an ideal companion even during unfavourable weather conditions.

The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is the first RF lens designed with a white heat shield coating, which suppresses the rise in temperature, especially when it is used during hot weather. A lens

hood in the same colour as the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is also included, with a sliding window for easy operation of polarising filters with the hood attached.

Canon has also newly developed a compact tripod mount that can be easily removed with a simple operation. The easy-to-read index allows users to quickly change the vertical and horizontal framing when using a tripod.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing and availability will be advised at a later date.

* Information and pictures courtesy of Canon Singapore and Ogilvy *

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For photographers who specialise in the portraiture photography genre, the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS lens would definitely be of interest to you! The 85mm focal length is one of the popular focal length choices used by portraiture photographers. Having tried out the EF85mm f/1.2L and EF85mm f/1.4L lenses, and having reviewed the EF85mm f/1.4L previously, I personally prefer using the f/1.4 focal length.

I would be keen to test and review the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS lens, some time down the road when the opportunity arises. Using my previous knowledge and experience using the EF85mm f/1.2L and f/1.4L lenses, the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS lens would be able to continue on Canon’s 85mm L lenses legacy.

With the announcement of the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS lens, I now have an option to choose from both EF and RF lenses, the 85mm portraiture lens that I have been considering to add on to my setup. How I would want to build my Canon EOS RP and RF lenses setup, it’s still a work in progress (and a lot to strategise and plan) since I have my existing Canon EOS-1DX Mark II DSLR inside my setup.

For those who have just started/concentrating on the Canon EOS R and RF lenses system, you have less headache and can start to welcome the new RF lenses being announced and arriving into the market. The new RF L lenses announcements showed Canon’s commitment to the Canon EOS R and RF lenses lineup, I am looking forward to more lenses on their RF lenses roadmap!

Let me share with you more information and details on the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS lens:

“We are proud to introduce the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS, a powerful lens that achieves the highest optical performance among Canon’s interchangeable lenses with 85mm focal length,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore. “Equipped with Canon’s  original DS coating and f/1.2 maximum aperture, the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS makes significant and smooth ‘bokeh expression’ possible to achieve.”

Unique DS Coating for Smooth Bokeh

With Canon’s proprietary vapour-deposited coating technology, the DS coating has the effect of gradually decreasing the transmittance of light from the centre to the periphery of the lens. This produces a smooth gradient bokeh that provides that beautiful expression as soft blurring can be achieved all around the outline of the bokeh. To optimise the effect, DS coating is used on the front and rear surface of the lens, allowing users to achieve high optical performance when shooting. The optical performance of the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS, together with the previously released RF85mm f/1.2L USM lens, even surpasses that of the renowned EF85mm f/1.2L USM lens.

With the large aperture of f/1.2, the soft and smooth gradient bokeh effect of the DS coating is maximised. The unique DS feature of the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS adds a special touch to images in various settings, ranging from weddings and portraits, fashion or lifestyle scenarios.

A Large Aperture Lens with Superior Resolution

When it comes to large aperture lenses, the 85mm focal length has been the ideal choice for portrait photographers, allowing them to create natural-looking portraits with beautiful bokeh in the background. The RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS has an optical design of 13 elements in 9 groups, including Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics (BR) optical element, 1 UD and 1 ground aspherical lens element. The BR and UD lenses help to greatly suppress chromatic aberration, resulting in excellent rendering performance.

The lens also features Canon’s proprietary Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to reduce lens flare and ghosting caused by reflections, as well as enhance image clarity and contrast when shooting back-lit subjects.

Thanks to its bright aperture of f/1.2 and 9-blade circular aperture, the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS delivers beautiful and soft background blur. The large aperture also allows users to capture sharp and crisp images in low light environments with a higher shutter speed.

The lens achieves a minimum focusing distance of 0.85m and 0.12x maximum magnification, expanding the shooting area from close-ups of people to shooting small objects.

A Brand New Shooting Experience

The RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS also features a new “control ring” found in new RF lens series, allowing users to assign settings that include aperture value, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity and exposure compensation. The tactile control ring gives the user precise control allowing accurate adjustment without looking away from the subject.

When the control ring is operated alongside the main dial and quick control dial on the EOS R camera, user will have three dials to set the aperture, shutter speed and ISO sensitivity respectively, simplifying the complex operations that initially required several steps to achieve.

For flexible adaption to changes in the environment, users can assign exposure compensation to the control ring during portrait shooting. In the case when there is a sudden change in lighting conditions, the user can use one hand to operate the control ring and adjust exposure compensation while simultaneously using the shutter button with the other hand.

Being an L-lens for professionals, the RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS’s weatherproof construction also makes it dust and water-resistant, making it the perfect choice of lens for photographers who enjoy outdoor photography.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing and availability will be advised at a later date.

* Information and pictures courtesy of Canon Singapore and Ogilvy *

The post Canon Announced RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS lens appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Canon has announced that a new firmware update for the EOS R and EOS RP is now available for download. As part of the effort to continuously improve on the user’s experience every step of the way, the new firmware update improves on both cameras’ auto-focus capabilities and ensures that users never miss out on a shot.

This new firmware version offers the following key areas of improvement, enhanced for a seamless experience with the EOS R (v1.4.0) & EOS RP (v1.3.0):

1. Enhances eye detection Auto Focus (AF) for improved face and eye recognition at greater distances.
2. Improved Auto Focus (AF) performance helps the camera to focus on smaller subjects.
3. Reduced lag time between the actual Auto Focus (AF) and the AF frame display for images in the viewfinder or on the LCD.

With this firmware update, Canon delivers on its promise of “Delighting You Always”, ensuring that users have more control over their craft and are empowered to capture the shots they want.

The firmware update is available for download via the following links:

EOS R: https://asia.canon/support/EOS%20R/model

EOS RP: https://asia.canon/support/EOS%20RP/model

If you are a Canon EOS R or EOS RP owner, remember to update your camera firmware! Do Pay It Forward and Pass It On, share this firmware update to your fellow Canon EOS R and EOS RP camera owners to update their firmware!

Check out my Canon EOS R articles that I published earlier: Key links and information on Canon EOS R versus Canon EOS RP

Canon EOS R versus EOS RP

The Canon Mirrorless Journey from Canon EOS M to EOS R

Canon EOS RP review article

Canon EOS RP review photos on Flickr

Canon EOS R review article

Canon EOS R review photos on Flickr

* Information courtesy of Canon Singapore and Ogilvy *

The post New Firmware Update for EOS R & EOS RP Improves AF appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.