The instant print game is pretty much owned by Fuji with the Instax line of printers.
That is not an opinion, it a fact.
As an Instax enthusiast forever, I love the instant gratification of the print in hand, and while I enjoy all the phone filters I can use to digitally share photos, there is something about a physical thing in your hand.

Have a look at this vid for a great walk through at this new addition:

This printer has been designed to work primarily with your smartphone, and of course, it’s so much more than just a simple printer.

First of all, once you download the app, and it is super easy to connect to your phone, and start to explore the options.

You can infinitely adjust the photo with color filters, and on this shot, I also added a heart, which is in the app.

You can also write on the photo with a selection of virtual brushes, or add different frames, as you can see here. You can see by the NEW labels , they are always updating!

Also you can collage the images, and one of the most fun is the match test.

Admittedly, when I saw this feature, I wasn’t quite sure how it worked or when you may use it.

You can take a photo of 2 people, or get 2 photos of people from your phone and get started.
There is a test that asks you to answer questions, another that just analyzes the images, and determines a % of compatibility
I was sitting with some family, and the mother and daughter couldn’t wait to try it!
They did the questions, was a tone of fun, and the Mini Instax printed out a souvenir for them with the analyses.
The evidence in the hand was worth everything~

Another interesting app feature is the QR code for video. This is from my rooftop, and you can scan the QR code, but you will need to have the app on your phone to see and hear the vid.

 

Now, you have to shoot the video on the phone, within the app, but imagine singing happy birthday on a smartphone vid, printing a still frame, and having a QR code on the print, and the birthday person can scan the code, and hear everyone singing.
Yes, you can forward a video, but I’m telling you, to have the hard print in hand is such a great physical gift.
Heck, last I looked birthday cards are still available and sent all the time.

The app needs a little tweaking to make it easier fro the recipient to see. You can see it in within the app.

So cool.

And of course there is more!

You can add spray paint, bubbles, an icon or an image onto a photo.
The printer itself also has an accelerometer in it to adjust the zoom feature on the screen by just moving the printer.
Cool tech, just didn’t find it useful. Oh well.

For me, having a printer in my bag to immediately give away a gift, and share a moment, is key.

I will say that as this printer is made for fun with a group.

So many great options to make a creation on the spot and share.
Truth be told, on my coffee table I have a bunch of instax photos , and because they are the physical print it causes me to pick them up now and again, and remember the time.

I could be scrolling though my phone at the thousand of images on there, but having a select set of hard copy photos mean a whole lot to me.

For the cons, the only thing I would say is, like all printers, is the cost per print. At about .70 per print, it can add up.
And I would suggest playing with the unit to gauge how you like images to look when printed.
Personally, I go a hair darker and a little more contrast. Now I’m all set.

The link I have for you is indeed from amazon, and for about $110 USD you get the printer, 20 shots,  and a case. Not bad!

As I said, built for fun and interaction, this compact printer should be at your next gathering!

NB: I do still like the Fuji Wide Printer, that allows me to add a QR code on the image to send people to a specific website, like my photo website.
Another tool in the bag, perfect for a giveaway.

Yeah, I’m on board with Fuji Instax!

Living in A Powder Keg and Giving Off Sparks!

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Sure, the recent airline snafus, and gas prices have been putting a massive damper on the whole travel process.
But we’re getting out there, and maybe, just maybe, some solid tech can make it a better experience. And in this post, there will be a surprise bit of kit at the end, that you may want to use at home as well!
Yes, I know many of you have already been on the road.
I’ve seen you at many trade events, and art fairs, so we’ve all seen the shift closer to full normal!
Let’s get at it!

A good set of noise cancelling headphones! In-ear headphones/airpods really don’t cut with your seat neighbors. There is always sound spill, and you should be be kind to those around you.
My fave choice for these is the over ear Sony WH-1000XM4, https://amzn.to/3Ong7Vp which of course has now JUST introduced a latest version!On-ear, and has a great mic built in, solid battery life, excellent sound quality.

And when on the plane, you have to have this:
Twelve South AirFly Pro which is the way to connect your favorite headset to the plane entertainment system via Bluetooth! No more wires!

Just plug it into the headphone jack on the seat, turn it on, and you are good to go. I’d pair these before boarding, just to confirm connections. I still recco over-ear headphones, but this illustration shows you the options. Basically any blue tooth audio device can be connected to this, and not just on the plane.

And make sure it’s charged!

Not quite tech, but vey important: Hydration! you have to be hydrated, when traveling. Forget the carbonated drinks on the plane, btw.
Make sure you bring along a Swell bottle! Lot’s of imitators, but I trust the original.
I like the Swell for the hot or cold capability in case you want a coffee at some point.

Sure, you have to go through security with it empty, but there are plenty of water filling stations in the terminal. Or buy a bottle and transfer to this.
For the specific hydration I do like an Electorlit Zero (zero sugar, zero calories) before the flight.

Or after a long day of meetings. Or after a long night of “entertainment”
The product that I recco is the Hydration with ACV . Easy to pack packets, and just add to your Swell bottle of water. Pack a bunch! Sugar free, and ACV!

In the room, you’ll need to charge all of your goodies, like your watch, airpods, and phone. To be honest I always uses a Mophie Juice pack as the extra battery for my phone, and charge that in the part of the dock i would charge airpods. (yes, I have an iPhone 12!)
I bring one triple threat wireless charger made by Mophie. A little more expensive that some of the others, but I can depend on it. That security on the road is important to me. Your choice. My watch has a bracelet band, and does not lie flat so this is a great choice. BTW, I have seen his on sale, on their site for 40% off!

The one thing I always pack a tech pouch by Peak Design, and it holds cables, small SSDs a multi-USB charger for batteries, and whatever else. I do shoot on the road and need to be fully charged when leaving the hotel.

And this great new slim line dock for your laptop: the VisionTek VT400. Super slim, has the outlets you need, and has the USB -C cable tucked into it’s side. It has an HDMI port, which if you have ever been in a hotel meeting room were you had to plug in your laptop to present, this doc has it!
It fits perfectly in your tech pouch, or in your jacket pocket.

Now, I’ve also reviewed the OWC version of this which is a a square block, although adds a SD card reader. al depends on your preference and needs

Here is a new item i discovered:

You’ve been in meetings, writing a brief for the next day, and you really don’t need/want a cocktail to get you to have a great restful night of sleep.
This is the Morphee, (sounds like Mophie, right? from France. A beautiful, sleep aid that has a cool, analog look and feel, and have sooooo many choices on how to lull you into sleep.

Choose your language, the mode, the time, and you will be taken to a new relaxing space and be able to fall asleep no matter how much stress your day gifted you with.
Yes, there are apps, but this one is so much more, plus gets you away from your phone.
This thing looks analog, works digitally, and is honestly a super product.
I’ll be honest, when I first saw this I was skeptical, but now love it!

Now hit the road, enjoy the travel, and may you have safe, uneventful trips!

Don’t worry! there are so many great improvements on this camera that your stills will also be thankful!
Honestly, it’s blending of the still and motion requirements you need today, into a solid new body.

Let’s dive in:

So we’ve (me!) have been waiting for this for years! I love the X-H1 and it’s always with me on a gig.
What’s new? I’ll tell you – (and official press release is below)

For a change, I’m just gonna list the highlights for me:
*Now we get a vastly improved processor : X-Processor 5 X-TransTM CMOS 5 HS imaging sensor, a stacked, back-side illuminated imaging sensor with a signal reading speed up to four times faster than Fujifilm’s previous X-TransTM CMOS 41.
*7 stops of IBIS
*4k @ 120 FPS and 6.2 k capable all due to that new processor ( I know, I placed the 4K first. Still works for most projects I do, but 120 FPS and 4K is huge!)
*3.5mm mic/headphone jacks ! Yay, no longer looking for the USB C adaptor

*More specific focus tracking, subject dependant

*AND you can use the same batteries as your X-T4 if you are in that deal.

*Fully Articulated LCD Screen

OK, a slightly deeper dive:

The main deal is the video capabilities: record 6.2K  vid AND a long record time.
Need to go longer?
We know what kind of heat that’ll cause on a camera. So they are offering a fan as an accessory. Here it is attached to the body. Supposed to cost about $200.

Yep, you heard right. And here is another view with the fan on, from the bottom

This camera is so multi use, stills & video, that vid specific add ons have been designed.
I will say that I used my X-T4 for vid shot in Flog for use in a feature film,
This does up the ante quite a bit.
Speaking of Flog, this new unit will record in Flog2: X-H2S is the first X Series digital camera to contain F-Log2, which provides a dynamic range of up to 14+ stops, allowing for more creative possibilities both in production and post-production workflows

I know a lot of folks will be upset about the PSAM knob up top. I know. Don’t worry about it. Keep it on M and you’ll be fine. And make sure you get your custom settings worked out. Unlike the X-T4 that had the Movie mode switch a quick click, you just rotate that top knob (yes, it’s a film camera icon) on top, and your in.

Feel the need for speed? The X-H2S will give you AF /AE at 40 FPS., and you can shoot up to 1000 frames at a clip in that mode. high-speed burst shooting mode set to 30 frames per second (JPEG) or 20 frames per second (RAW

Another major improvement is the focus tracking. Joining some of the other manufacturers, it now claims to be able to track more subjects and has also been expanded from the human face and eyes to now include animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes and trains. X-H2S keeps targeted subjects consistently in focus, allowing users to concentrate on framing and critical image-making opportunities. One we have one in our hands, we’ll check this out.

OK, here is a one of the major diffs to really take advantage of all this new power:
There is an SD slot and a CFExpress slot. So you’ll need to invest in some new cards. If you shoot 4k vid or more, you’ll need it. It’s science.

 

Here are the overall specs:

And all of this will cost you $2500, MSRP

But wait…there’s more!!
Another version of the XH2 will be introduced, and rumored to have 40MP, and will cost less??
My hot take on that is that it will more designed for the still shooter and maybe not have all the video bells and whistles.

We’ll see. I can’t wait to hear the news, and will of course share it here!

And now, the official word:

 FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of its next flagship X Series mirrorless digital camera, FUJIFILM X-H2S (X-H2S). The most advanced X Series mirrorless camera yet, X-H2S includes advanced features for both still photography and video. It is also the first APS-C digital camera of its kind to feature Fujifilm’s 26.16MP X-TransTM CMOS 5 HS imaging sensor, a stacked, back-side illuminated imaging sensor with a signal reading speed up to four times faster than Fujifilm’s previous X-TransTM CMOS 41. 

X-Trans™ CMOS 5, combined with the newly minted X-Processor 5 (which doubles the camera’s processing power compared to X-Processor 4), greatly enhances overall image fidelity at lower ISOs and reduces noise at higher ISOs. Subject-detection AF, which maximizes the tracking speed and accuracy of moving subjects is now made possible through the incorporation of an AI processor. 

For video, X-Processor 5 enables the recording of 10-bit 4:2:2 video in resolutions up to 6.2K/30P and frame rates as fast as 4K/120P and FHD/240p. Support for professional codecs, like Apple ProRes HQ/ Pro Res 422/ Pro Res LT, provide incredible flexibility within post-production workflows, while also minimizing power consumption, thereby extending the camera’s maximum video recording time up to 240 minutes. 

“The universal reaction to X-H2S has been, ‘This is exactly what I’ve been waiting for!’ The overwhelmingly enthusiastic response reinforces my belief that X-H2S will be the versatile, hybrid digital camera that can meet the diverse needs of photographers and motion production professionals,” said Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “It’s fun to see so much enthusiasm for this camera, especially since the features it has aren’t normally found at a price point of only $2499.95.” 

With these sensor and processor updates, X-H2S achieves substantial performance improvement over other digital camera models on the market, including: 

● Major boost to burst mode capability: X-H2S can apply AF / AE tracking in blackout-free continuous shooting conditions of up to 40 frames per second*2, and can create over 1,000 frames continuously with the high-speed burst shooting mode set to 30 frames per second (JPEG) or 20 frames per second (RAW)*3 

1 In comparison with the X-TransTM CMOS4, carried in the current camera model 

2 Applies to high-speed continuous shooting conditions without viewfinder black-out (i.e., with photographer still able to view the subject). AF / AE tracking in these conditions is only available when using the electronic shutter. 

3 Performance based on a cold start, when using the electronic shutter. 

● Dramatically evolved autofocus (AF) performance: X-H2S’s high number of AF calculations performed per second improves overall AF accuracy and facilitates subject-detection AF. Developed with Deep Learning technology, subject-detection AF implements an advanced prediction algorithm to enhance the performance of Zone AF, by refining the camera’s ability to track moving subjects in low-contrast environments. Subject detection and tracking has also been expanded from the human face and eyes to now include animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes and trains. X-H2S keeps targeted subjects consistently in focus, allowing users to concentrate on framing and critical image-making opportunities. 

● Exceptional video performance: X-H2S digital camera supports internal recording of 4:2:2, 10-bit Apple ProRes HQ/ ProRes 422/ ProRes LT and ProRes 422 Proxy at resolutions of up to 6.2K/30P and 4:2:2, 10-bit h.265 video in frame rates as fast as 4K/120P and FHD/ 240p. The sensor’s readout speed of 1/180 seconds when recording video further assists in minimizing rolling shutter effects on moving subjects, or when the camera itself is moving. A heat-dissipating design brings the 4K/60P continuous video recording time to approximately 240 minutes, while the optional FAN-001 cooling fan accessory assists with maintaining similar levels of performance in high-temperature conditions. 

● Significant flexibility for external recording: X-H2S is the first X Series digital camera to contain F-Log2, which provides a dynamic range of up to 14+ stops, allowing for more creative possibilities both in production and post-production workflows. 

Additional Product Features: 

Best subject tracking in X Series history 

● X-H2S controls phase-detection pixels independently from image display when in burst mode. This triples the number of calculations in phase detection from the acclaimed FUJIFILM X-T4 and enables high-speed focusing even during high-speed continuous shooting. 

● X-H2S’s electronic viewfinder uses a high-resolution, 5.76-million-dot panel with a magnification of 0.8x. With a frame rate of approximately 120fps, the smooth viewfinder offers stellar visibility as a result of strong suppression of parallax and distortion (which commonly occurs when an eye position becomes displaced while using the viewfinder), thereby enabling accurate subject tracking. 

Thoughtful design to enhance users’ content creation experience 

● The camera features an all-new five-axis, in-body image stabilization mechanism, which offers up to 7.0-stops of image stabilization4. Users can comfortably choose to operate the camera handheld in active environments (e.g., sports) or in low-light conditions (e.g., nightscape). 

4 When mounted with the FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R lens 

● X-H2S incorporates the popular design features of Fujifilm’s previous X-H1 model, such as a large grip that works well with large lenses, an LCD display on the top panel for users to check settings at any time, and a highly-robust body that withstands heavy professional use. Many additional improvements have also been included in the design and construction of X-H2S: 

● The shutter button’s overall feel has been adjusted to improve its operability when it is half-pressed. This allows users to release the shutter exactly when intended. 

● A standalone video recording button has been added to make the experience of recording video with the 1.62-million-dot, vari-angle LCD monitor a seamless experience. 

● From the fit and finish of the buttons and materials used in the construction of X-H2S to being able to map specific functions to the AF ON button, image-makers will find the experience of using X-H2S intuitive and familiar. Shutter durability has been optimized, withstanding 500,000 actuations during quality and performance testing. 

● The camera features dual memory card slots supporting one CFexpressTM Type B and one SD card5. Users can draw out the full potential of X-H2S’s fast, continuous image-making and video performance with the high-speed data processing performance of CFexpressTM Type B memory cards. 

5 See the Fujifilm website for a list of verified compatible cards. 

X-H2S Accessories 

Several new accessories are also being introduced to complement the launch of X-H2S. These optional accessories include: 

Vertical battery grip (VG-XH) 

● Dust- and moisture–resistant and is designed to operate at temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius). It fits two FUJIFILM NP-W235 high-capacity batteries. 

● The grip’s button layout is designed to provide equal operability whether holding the camera vertically or horizontally. 

File transmitter (FT-XH) 

● Features wired LAN connectivity and high-speed wireless communications capability, essential for in-studio tethered content creation or for creating sports/media content. It can also be used as a vertical grip using two FUJIFILM NP-W325 high-capacity batteries. 

● It can be combined with X-H2S to support the following communication specifications: 

● FTP transfer by wired LAN / wireless LAN / USB Smartphone tethering 

● Tethered shooting by wired LAN / wireless LAN 

● Remote recording function by wired LAN / wireless LAN; capable of controlling up to four X-H2S cameras from a browser at the same time 

Cooling fan (FAN-001) 

● Specifically designed for the X-H2S to facilitate extended image creation and video recording in high temperatures. 

● The fan can be fitted to the rear of the camera body without a cable, supplying power, extending continuous video recording time at high temperature, and eliminating concerns of heat-related camera shutdown. 

Cover kit (CVR-XH) 

● Protects various terminals on the camera. Items contained in this kit: 

● 1x Sync terminal cover 

● 1x Hot shoe cover 

● 1x File transmitter / vertical battery grip terminal cover 

● 1x Cooling fan terminal cover 

● 1x Memory card slot cover 

Pricing and Availability: 

FUJIFILM X-2HS mirrorless digital camera is expected to be available in early July 2022 at the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $2,499 USD and $3,200 CAD. 

Pricing and expected availability for X-2HS accessories are as follows: 

VG-XH Vertical Battery Grip: Available early July 2022 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $399 USD and $515 CAD. 

FT-XH File Transmitter: Available in September 2022 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $999 USD and $1,280 CAD. 

FAN-001 Cooling Fan: Available early July 2022 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $199 USD and $260 CAD. 

CVR-XH Cover Kit: Available early July 2022 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $19.99 USD and $26 CAD. 

 

 

After a hiatus for in person, AIPAD, also know as The Photography Show is back in NYC for 2022!
I think there will be a lot of events getting that opening line!

This year’s show has brought back so many of the best galleries in the world for a 2 floor showing of some of the best of the photographic arts. Here is a link to all of the exhibitors, and their sites.

From the old school opulence of the Park Ave Armory, to the cavernous open space of the Piers, this space is a more intimate way to view the images up for sale. Plus you are back in the middle of the city for all you need after the visit: food, drink, shopping, transportation.

There is a good mix of the classic, iconic photographs, coupled with some of the new artists in the realm.

With photographs from the very beginning of photography, with this image form a glass negative, circa 1856 at the Hans P. Kraus gallery

to mid-century classics, like this Avedon image of Dovima with the elephants, at Staley-Wise galley

with a decent sprinkling of au current offerings, it is a show that can be covered with an attention to detail, without an overwhelming space to intimidate or cause you to breeze through. Below is a photo by Ansel Adams. Did you know he made portraits?

Yes, it feels like there is a layout that allows for a more detailed look at the work, and as a collector, prompted me to note images to purchase, instead of simply appreciating on the galleries wall. Some good buys to be had, for sure!

On the first floor is a very intense exhibit of Joel Peter-Witkin work, which include not only finished images, but contact sheets as well, showing his process of selection. If you are familiar with his work, you will see a collection of some of his most iconic photographs. Not for the faint of heart, these images will stay with you.

Moving through the galleries, you are greeted with incredible world press images, detailing a world you may only see in the media, elevated to a proper size and import, being singular in the messaging.

As a bit of an old school aficionado, I was pleased to see some of the classic images from the likes of Avedon, Erwitt, Sid Avery, Max Yavno, and Steichen.

 

More current favorites, like Julie Blackmon, a great storyteller were on display at the Robert Mann booth. Portraiture imagery was liberally sprinkled throughout as well.

Overall, I’d say the show captured vintage classics, portraits, and fashion, for the majority of the show. The newer artists were in shorter supply, although the entire show felt just right for size and content,

One thing that was not here this year, was the massive book section of the show, where if you wanted to purchase a bound version of an artist’s work, new or old, instead of a print purchase, or even as a precursor to a print purchase, you were hard pressed to find a good selection.

Instead, AIPAD/The Photography Show partnered with ICP with a book fest on Saturday, to see a huge range of photobooks. Admission is only $5. or use your receipt for the AIPAD event to get in for free!

There are some book signings on site at The Photography Show this weekend, so you will have an opportunity to get some new treasures. Galleries did have some books on their tables, but few.

Perhaps that was meant to have you concentrate on the prints, maybe it was a bit of a shlep to ship quantities of books.
Or simply that in these past 2 years, not many new books were created.
2 books that I was drawn to was the Power of Photography, a collection of important images in photography, treated with respect in a beautifully printed, and single image, single page format. Created by gallerist, collector, lover of photography, Peter Fetterman, this is one you should pick up for sure.

Another was a very unique collection of Daido polaroid images, produced as actual sized stickers, with a cloth bound photo album allowing you to place the photos as you wish in the album.

On the opening night, Jeffery Rosenheim, curator of photography at the Metropolitan Museum. received The AIPAD Award. It recognizes and celebrates visionaries who have spent their lives at the forefront of the field of photography.

I first met him at the Diane Arbus exhibit at the Met. This guy has a massive passion for photography, that spills over to anyone who meets him! Never a knowledge snob, quite the opposite, as he will engage almost anyone will to talk photography! No, not gear, but the language of the medium.

Overall, this is a show you have to attend. for a rich photographic gathering, with a great variety of work, we have missed this, and you won’t be disappointed.