This week was packed with exciting news from a wide array of categories. Sigma released two 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lenses for both Leica L and Sony E mounts. GoPro dropped the new HERO 13 Black action camera along with the ultracompact HERO 4K action cam. And finally, DJI announced the Neo, the newest (and smallest) addition to the legendary drone-maker’s extensive catalog.
Sigma Covers a Wide Range of Focal Lengths
If you’re looking for an all-in-one lens for your Sony or Leica mirrorless camera, Sigma has you covered with its latest release. The 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens allows you to go from portraiture to awe-inducing landscapes using a single lens. The lens is available for both Sony E and Leica L mounts.
The new lens maintains a minimum focusing distance of 15.8” throughout the entire zoom range to ensure detailed close-ups of your subjects. Autofocusing is driven by an HLA motor for quiet and precise operation. A 12-blade diaphragm provides a round bokeh. Additional optical design elements include two F Low Dispersion elements and one Special Low Dispersion element that work to reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing. Five aspherical elements increase sharpness and render accurate imagery.
In terms of accessibility and operation, the new lens features integrated controls for easy, intuitive operation of its wide focal length range. Two AF-L buttons can be customized based on your needs. Lock the zoom mechanism to prevent your lens from extending accidentally and get the shot. The aperture ring can also be locked and features a click/de-click function for smooth adjustments.
Considering the large focal length range, HLA autofocus, and durable construction, this lens could really make a difference for outdoorsmen shooting wildlife or run-and-gun photographers needing to adapt quickly to various shooting scenarios.
GoPro Rolls Out the Newest HERO Models
You might still be able to squeeze some summer activities into the remaining warm days of the year, and what better motivation to do so than not one, but two new GoPro models. First, we have the HERO13 Black, which offers the same 5.3K60 high-resolution performance of its predecessor, but goes several steps further with the addition of new interchangeable HB-series lenses and a higher-capacity battery.
The HB-series digital lenses come in three different iterations: Macro, Ultrawide, and Anamorphic. Once the lens is secured to your HERO13, the camera will automatically detect the lens and switch to the corresponding Mod mode. The HB lenses launch alongside new ND filters, which enable additional customization options for your video and photos without sacrificing light quality.
A new Enduro battery increases capacity to 1900mAh for recording 1080p30 video for 2.5 hours and 5.3K30 video for 1.5 hours. Just like its predecessor, the battery is designed to withstand extreme cold.
Along with its new enhancements, the HERO13 continues all of the beloved features of its predecessor, including like dual touchscreens, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, HDR support, horizon leveling, live streaming capabilities, and more. A slew of compatible accessories launched alongside the HERO13, offering users the option to kit out their camera further.
GoPro also announced the HERO, an ultracompact camera that GoPro touts as its smallest 4K camera ever. In addition to 4K30 video, the HERO features an intuitive rear touchscreen that allows you to easily toggle between settings like HyperSmooth stabilization, 2.7K60 slow-motion, and 12MP photos. Despite its diminutive design, the HERO’s body is rugged and waterproof to 16’ without a housing. If you’re looking for something super compact and portable, but still capable of high-quality video, this might be the HERO for you.
DJI Takes off with AI-Powered Video
DJI introduced its smallest drone ever, the powerful, palm-sized Neo. The Neo is designed for beginners and boasts a compact, lightweight design. A 1/2” image sensor captures up to 12MP photos and 4K30 video. Its 4.8 oz size allows you to deploy it from virtually anywhere, including the palm of your hand. The Neo has additional familiar features like RockSteady and Horizon Balancing to maintain stabilized imagery to mitigate new pilot anxiety.
AI-based subject tracking follows a selected subject as they move, so all you have to do is focus on not crashing into a tree. Toggle between Smart Tracking, which follows a selected subject, or DirectionTrack, which positions the drone in the front of your subject and flies it backwards as the subject walks towards the drone.
Six different QuickShot modes add automation to the Neo’s interface. Pre-programmed flight paths keep the subject in frame and give your aerial video a more dynamic flair. Choose between Dronie, Circle, Rocket, Spotlight, Helix, and Boomerang maneuvers. On top of all these visual features, the Neo offers flight narration and voice control using the DJI Fly app from up to 164’ away.
The Neo is available as a standalone flyer and as part of the Fly More Combo, which includes additional parts and accessories. Comprehensive safety features, from propeller guards to wind resistance engineering, make the Neo approachable for any drone-curious gearhead. If you’ve been curious about taking flight with your video, the Neo’s price point and thoughtful features are a good place to start.
In other news…
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DJI expanded its DL-mount lens line for Zenmuse X9-8K and X9-8K Air gimbal cameras with a 75mm f/1.8 Telephoto Lens.
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RED introduced the DENZ Premium Optics Upgrade, which improves the diopter range and optical quality of compatible EVF viewfinders.
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OBSBOT has released the AI-powered Meet 2 4K Webcam to ensure remote meetings in your home office go smoothly.
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Designed for streamers and gamers, the Shure MV6 is a cardioid USB-C microphone with Voice Isolation technology for superior vocal delivery to your audience or squad members.
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HARMON released a new color version of its Phoenix 200 film, which boasts an ISO of 200 with vivid color reproduction.
Now that was an exciting week full of products to chat about. Check back next week to see more of the latest news and releases.