We are back from Passover break and ready to get back into the swing of things with this week’s roundup. Sony released a new versatile 50-150mm lens wedding photographers are sure to love. Insta360 upped the ante with the X5 360° 8K camera. Profoto introduced the Spot Small, a new projection lens with wide compatibility for accurate light shaping.
Sony Extends the G Master Series
Sony has added another lens to their G Master zoom series: the FE 50-150mm f/2 GM Lens. This lens wraps all of the most versatile focal lengths into a single package optimized for hybrid shooting. Any event shooter looking to streamline their kit will find the 50-150mm a useful tool for both photo and video capture.
The lens features a constant f/2 maximum aperture for an extra full stop of light over comparable zooms. Sharp imagery is practically guaranteed thanks to the host of ZA, Super ED, aspherical, and ED elements. Floating focus mechanisms maintain high image quality throughout the focus range and an 11-blade iris creates a smooth bokeh.
Four extreme dynamic linear motors make for a responsive AF system that is both quiet and smooth even when continuously shooting photos at 120 fps or video at 240 fps. A Breathing Compensation function avoids shifting when moving throughout the zoom range. Internal focusing means the lens stays a consistent length during use and allows it to be mounted to gimbals or tripods without fear of disrupting the center of gravity.
Insta360 Updates Their Flagship 360° Camera
The X5 is the newest iteration of Insta360’s 360° camera lineup, with marked improvements to recording time and water resistance while maintaining its familiar 8K resolution and stabilization protocols. Single- and dual-lens modes allow you to use the X5 as both a 360° camera and a wide-angle action camera. Record up to 8K30 360° video in dual-lens mode and 4K60 video with a 170° FOV in single-lens mode.
Process 72MP photos using AI PureShot, utilize creative video modes like Bullet Time, Me Mode, and TimeShift, and access advanced 360° editing modes within the Insta360 companion app and desktop studio software. The X5 features FlowState stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock to ensure your footage remains balanced.
The new model features enhanced durability, allowing it to be submerged underwater up to 49’ without a case, which is 16’ deeper than its predecessor. The battery has an expanded capability of 2400mAh, allowing you to record 5.3K30 360° video for up to 135 minutes. Using Endurance mode this extends to 185 minutes and when recording in 8K30 it can run for up to 88 minutes.
Focus Your Lighting Design with Profoto
Profoto’s newest release is a projection lens sure to improve the quality of your studio lighting design. The Spot Small is a light-shaping tool with 115mm lens capable of creating crisp light beams with pinpoint accuracy. Highlight details in your portrait, commercial, or art photography while maintaining dramatic shadows and projection patterns.
The lens is compatible with flat and protruding flash heads for versatility across many different types of studio equipment. Adjustable metal leaves create precise light beams and integrated iris and gobo holders give you creative control over more theatrical effects. The fixture also has a front magnetic mount for attaching separately available Protofo Clic light shaping tools to your setup.
That’s all for this week! Check back next week for exciting news, releases, and product announcements.
