Canon Cameras and Gear

Well this is just plain stupid. Canon has forced the site "Canon Filmmakers" to close down using legal action. How mentioning the name "Canon" in a site name is an infringement on that company is a mystery to anyone who can think.

The site was all about techniques for shooting video with Canon's oddly excellent DSLR products. Oddly, because while the technology is great, the suits seems to have no brains when it comes to public relations.

Alas, CanonFilmmakers.com is going the way of film as have others that have dared to align themselves with Canon.

Read more about it at their farewell blog post: http://canonfilmmakers.com/blog/2011/06/01/all-good-things-must-come-to-an-end/

This makes me happy I shoot Pentax.

Owners of Canon's EOS-1D Mark IV, EOS 5D Mark II and EOS 7D cameras now have the option of transmitting their shots immediately via wireless network connection using one of three new devices designed specifically for these models.

The WFT-E2 II A, WFT-E4 II A and WFT-E5A transmitters provide "professional photographers with a range of innovative wireless connectivity options for all photographic disciplines".

Additionally the units can link more than one camera, allowing for simultaneous synchronized shots from different angles.

The "E4" and "E5A" are available immediately for $699.99 while the "E2" is slated for first quarter 2010 and the price is not yet set. [MORE]

This is not a joke, but a real auction on ebay for a Canon 5200mm (LONG) f14 prime lens.

This is a very rare Canon 5200mm photographic lens. THE largest & most powerful prime lens ever created for dedicated SLR photographic use. Made in Japan. It is my understanding that a customized SLR/DSLR/EF mount can be created/included by the team of optical engineers who presently look after the lens. Due to its large size, it may be better suited to astronomy applications & others... It takes two strong people to lift the lens. It could also be mounted on a customized truck or SUV. A large geared or motorized support head would be needed to get the most out it. The magnification of this lens is truly staggering. If mounted to a Canon HD XL series video camera for example, a reach of 1000x optical (at least) would be possible (approx 37,500mm). The lens could also be mounted to HD & cine cameras. Manual focus & drop-in filters can be used. With so few ever built Canon spent a tonne on the R&D, not to mention the manufacturer of this lens. The Canon factory picture shows the lens mounted to an SLR camera (circled in red) – this will further give you an idea of its size. As the lens is so rare & so unique, it's fair to say that it's a collectors item & attraction in itself. For Canon collectors & owners of the Canon EF 1200mm F5.6 lens - quite simply your Canon collection is incomplete with out it.

Starting bid is $45,000. See photos and details at: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180438980987

Canon has announced the development of a new hybrid image stabilization technique that addresses blur from not only the shift of the camera, but angle adjustments as well. The new technology is expected to be on their new DSLR lenses before the end of 2009. [MORE]

Canon USA has opened their annual Photography in the Parks competition for submissions starting today. The fourth edition theme is "Inspirational Nature Images" and entries are accepted until September 30, 2009.

Two division, teens (ages 13-17) and adults (18+) are a new feature of this year's contest. Photos should be taken at any USA park or monument.

Read on for full details. [MORE]

Canon is hoping their new Live Learning program will be the catalyst that "inspires Attendees to Develop Their Personal Creative Vision." The program targets those with either currently use Canon EOS cameras or are considering such.

Their "EOS Essentials" classes will be held throughout 2009 in eight US cities including: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, Atlanta, and Dallas.

“Through the Canon Live Learning program we are hoping to empower and inspire our customers to further enhance their skills and passion for the art of imaging,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “Canon Live Learning adds value to the experience of owning and using Canon photographic products.” [MORE]