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Can the Godox V1 Flash for Canon Be the Budget-Friendly Alternative for Dental Photography?

Can the Godox V1 Flash for Canon Be the Budget-Friendly Alternative for Dental Photography?

If you’re into dental photography—whether capturing dental intraoral photography or perfecting your dental digital photography techniques—you know how critical good lighting is. But does investing in a high-end flash system like Canon’s always make sense? At $229 (compared to $1099 for the Canon Speedlite EL-1), the Godox V1 Flash offers a compelling and cost-effective alternative. Curious about Canon’s latest flash system? Check out our article about theirrumored hybrid Speedlite and its potential to revolutionize dental photography.

How Does the Godox V1 Flash Compare to Canon’s Flash Systems?

When it comes to professional dental photography, Canon flash systems are often considered the gold standard. However, their premium price can make them inaccessible for some users. The Godox V1 Flash provides comparable features—such as high-speed sync, excellent light quality, and advanced wireless connectivity—at a fraction of the cost.

Does this mean you’re sacrificing quality for affordability? Let’s explore.

What Value Does the Godox V1 Flash Offer to Dental Photographers?

  • Cost Efficiency Without Compromising Quality

    At $229, the Godox V1 Flash is significantly more affordable than many Canon flashes. This makes it an excellent option for dental professionals seeking a cost-effective yet high-performing lighting solution.

  • Precision and Versatility

    The round flash head delivers soft, even light. Its ability to tilt, rotate, and zoom ensures flexibility for capturing professional-grade images, whether you’re photographing close-ups of dental work or portraits of patients. It’s also perfect for dual-flash setups with modifiers, ideal for advanced intraoral and portraiture work.

  • Battery Power That Keeps You Going

    With 480 full-power flashes per charge, the Godox V1 ensures you can get through even the busiest day without worrying about running out of power. This reliability is especially valuable for lengthy dental photo sessions.

 

Is the Godox V1 Flash Right for You?

Consider these questions:

  • Are you searching for a professional-grade flash that fits within your budget?
  • Do you require soft, even lighting to achieve precision and clarity in your dental photography, including intraoral and portrait shots?
  • Would a rechargeable, reliable flash with long battery life make your workflow more efficient?

If your answer is “yes” to any of these, the Godox V1 Flash could be the ideal solution. Combining performance, flexibility, and affordability, it’s a fantastic choice for dental professionals and enthusiasts looking to elevate their dental photography results without overspending.

Ready to Elevate Your Skills?

Want to master your flash system and take your dental photography to the next level? Start with our expert tutorials, including free guides and resources, to help you refine your skills.

For even more resources, register for free on our website to access selected video content and explore our Equipment Section, packed with valuable insights. While many of our premium lessons offer advanced tips and techniques, we also provide free content to get you started.

👉 Register now and stay updated with the latest in dental photography, including new articles, reviews, and industry updates. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to enhance your expertise, you’ll find tools and inspiration to support your journey!

Could Canon’s Rumored Hybrid Speedlite Revolutionize Dental Photography?

Could Canon’s Rumored Hybrid Speedlite Revolutionize Dental Photography?

New Canon’s Hybrid Speedlite?

Canon’s journey with Speedlites has been exciting, but recently it hit a turning point with the discontinuation of the flagship Speedlite EL-1. This left a noticeable gap in their lineup, and while Profoto is often considered a top alternative for high-end lighting, many dental photographers still prefer to use Canon-branded gear to maintain full compatibility within their system.

There are rumors that Canon may soon announce a new Hybrid Speedlite, which could potentially take the position of the new flagship model. However, this information hasn’t been confirmed. If the rumors are true, this new Speedlite might include both traditional flash functionality and a video light, which would make it a versatile tool for both still photography and video documentation.

Canon’s Hybrid Speedlite Features for Dental Photographers

The addition of a video light is more than just a novelty. For dental photographers, this could offer significant benefits, especially when working in environments that require both still images and videos. Imagine shooting clinical photos and quickly transitioning to record video demonstrations using the same light source—no need to switch setups. This hybrid system would streamline workflows for those involved in intraoral photography and dental portfolio shoots.

One of the most anticipated features of this rumored Speedlite is the control over shallow depth of field (DOF), allowing dental professionals to create more artistic and dynamic images. The continuous lighting mode could be particularly useful for crafting soft, diffused backgrounds while keeping the subject, such as a dental restoration or smile design, in sharp focus. This combination of precise lighting and DOF control is invaluable for those aiming to elevate their dental photography into the realm of artistic presentation.

Canon hasn’t confirmed the specifics yet, but we’ve been told to expect new Speedlite features beyond the hybrid lighting. What exactly those features will be remains unclear. The official announcement could come as early as November, though delays in the EOS R era have been common, especially with products like Speedlites, which can take longer to reach the market.

It’s also worth noting that there has been a recall on the Speedlite EL-5, so it’s clear Canon is working to refine its lighting solutions. While there is no confirmed flagship model in the current lineup, we don’t expect Canon to leave this gap unfilled for long.

For now, dental photographers should keep an eye on the developments, as this new Hybrid Speedlite could represent a major leap forward for those who need to capture both photos and videos with professional lighting.

Check out Dental Photography Flashes Online Lesson!

Canon EOS R6 Mark III Rumors: What Dental Photographers Can Expect in 2025

Canon EOS R6 Mark III Rumors: What Dental Photographers Can Expect in 2025

Canon EOS R6 Mark III Rumors

If you’re a dental photographer looking to upgrade your gear for intraoral photography or even detailed dental portfolio shots, the rumored release of the Canon EOS R6 Mark III should definitely be on your radar. Canon’s R6 line has been a favorite among professionals for its versatility, performance, and excellent price-to-quality ratio, making it one of the most popular full-frame mirrorless cameras, especially for us, working in the dental photography world.

Originally, many speculated that the EOS R6 Mark III would drop by the end of 2024, but the latest whispers point toward a release in the first quarter of 2025. An image of what’s believed to be the new model has surfaced, and while the number isn’t visible, there are noticeable differences compared to the EOS R6 Mark II. As we can see, there’s a new button on top — but its function remains a mystery.

EOS R6 Mark III: First specs

While the final specs are still up in the air, it’s expected that the EOS R6 Mark III will stick with the 24MP sensor, which is more than enough for the high-quality intraoral and portrait shots dental professionals need. Some rumors suggest it might even feature the advanced sensor from the EOS R3, which would significantly boost image quality, especially in low-light situations, such as when capturing precise details in dental photography.

Another exciting possibility for dental photographers is the dual card slot setup — one CFe and one SD — similar to what we see in the EOS R5 Mark II. This can be a huge advantage when shooting large amounts of data, like high-res dental photos or video content for dental photography courses, ensuring you have enough storage space for extended sessions.

Canon is known for using the EOS R6 series to introduce new features, and we’re expecting no less from the Mark III. The R6 Mark II introduced the “precapture” feature, allowing photographers to capture key moments more easily — a tool that could be invaluable for those working on intricate intraoral shots or dental portfolio photography. The Mark III is likely to continue this trend, adding more video capabilities and other features to streamline the workflow for dental photographers.

So, while we wait for the official details, dental photographers can look forward to some exciting advancements in the Canon EOS R6 Mark III, making it an excellent option for upgrading your dental photography setup. Stay tuned for more updates — we’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more!

Check out our Professional Studio Photography Online Course!

Is the Possibility of Third-Party RF Mount Lenses Becoming a Reality in 2024?

Is the Possibility of Third-Party RF Mount Lenses Becoming a Reality in 2024?

Canon is well aware of the requests to see third-party lenses that are equipped with autofocus, like those made by Sigma or Tamron, on its mirrorless RF mount. And it looks like the company is taking these requests seriously!

Third-Party Manufacturers Will Finally Offer RF Mount Lenses?

Interestingly, in 2022 Canon was very strict about taking this option under consideration and it was a firm “no”.

Canon believes that these products infringe their patent and design rights and has therefore requested the company to stop all activities that infringe Canon’s intellectual property rights,” the company said in September of 2022.

But time flies and today Canon remains the only major camera manufacturer to not allow third-party lens makers to produce fully supported lenses for its mirrorless cameras. There is a slight change from last year” says Go Tokura, Senior Managing Executive Officer and Deputy Head of the Imaging Group at Canon. “[Since we have] launched more than 40 lenses and our product lineup has become more versatile and based on that, our communication with the third party has been seeing more progress from last year.”

Even if we can’t call this statement a confirmation, it looks way better than the previous opinions and we’re really looking forward to this breakthrough. We’re pretty sure you’re waiting for it as much as we do and we’ll keep you posted!

Check out our Dental Photography Lenses Online Course!

Does Sensor Size Matter in Dental Photography?

Does Sensor Size Matter in Dental Photography?

The sensor is one of the most essential elements in every camera. Camera sensor size is something to consider when purchasing a camera for Dental Photography.

Let’s start with some basics. What is a camera sensor?

A camera sensor is a piece of hardware inside the camera that captures light and converts it into signals that result in an image. Sensors consist of millions of photosites, or light-sensitive spots, that record what is being seen through the lens. The size of the camera’s sensor determines how much of this light is used to create the image.
A camera’s sensor dictates the quality of the images it can produce—the larger the sensor, the higher the image quality. Bigger image sensors have bigger pixels, which means better low-light performance, reduced noise, good dynamic range, and the ability to obtain more information.

What does it mean in practice? Take a look at the graphics below.

If you put a 21-megapixel full-frame sensor next to a 21-megapixel APS-C sensor, both are going to have the same amount of photoreceptors or pixels, but because the full-frame sensor is larger, the pixels are going to be larger.

Keep in mind that camera sensor formats are not standardized across the different brands or models. Dimensions may vary slightly from the figures.

Different brands of camera bodies have different crop factors. For instance, Canon has a 1.6x crop sensor, while Nikon, Sony, Sigma, and Pentax have a multiplier of 1.5x, and Panasonic and Olympus are 2x.

Now, having that explained, let’s move on to our online lesson and topics we’d like to explore!

  • Where did the digital sensor come from?
  • Camera sensor’s main functions
  • Praktyczna demonstarcja Comparison of two Canon cameras with different sensor sizes
  • Does full-frame give better quality?
  • How does sensor size affect your shot?

Register and watch the first episode now for free! DENTAL PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS: DIGITAL SENSOR SIZE 

Canon EOS R5 with two replacements in 2023?

Canon EOS R5 with two replacements in 2023?

Dental photographers, hold your breath. The latest sources are suggesting that we will see Canon EOS R5 Mark II in 2023, potentially alongside a new high-megapixel version of the EOS R5.

The next version of the famous EOS R5 has been rumored for a while now. These rumors became even stronger when Canon released a huge update to the existing EOS R5, adding 400MP images and a raft of other quality-of-life updates for the camera earlier this year.

And, as multiple sources confirm, Canon is indeed preparing to launch the EOS R5 Mark II by the end of the year, and it will appear before the long-awaited Canon EOS R1 camera.

And there’s more. Sources claim that R5 Mark II would stick with a sensor size of around 45MP. Canon is saving its truly groundbreaking technology for the release of the much awaited EOS R1.  What’s the concern? The high-megapixel version of the Canon EOS R5 can be a stills photography-focused camera and could have up to a native 80-megapixel sensor, but make sacrifices on its video skills. Fortunately, that’s not bad for our area: digital dental photography!

Check out our eLAB online course. How to match the shades perfectly?

The new Godox Ringflash, designed for close-up photography. Perfect for dental photographers?

The new Godox Ringflash, designed for close-up photography. Perfect for dental photographers?

As we all know, macro ringflash is indispensable in dental photographer’s work and we’re using it everyday in digital and intraoral dental photography.

Check out more on dental photography flashes!

Godox MF-R76S TTL Macro Ringflash

So, it cheers us up that it looks like the Godox MF-R76S TTL lights up miniature worlds for Canon, Nikon & Sony shooters! The newest addition is great when you need even lighting that the ring-shaped lens-mounted flash tubes provide.

The MF-R76S TTL will be available in three different versions to ensure TTL compatibility with Sony, Canon and Nikon system cameras. It has TTL metering and wireless control if using the Godox 2.4GHz X system. By using two tubes it is possible to light one side of the subject more than the other for better modeling, and control of shadows.

The units also offer advanced flash features such as second-curtain sync and high-speed sync (HSS). What does it mean in practice? Intraoral photography will be possible with shorter times and macro photos will be sharp even when there’s no image stabilization.

The new flash is selling for $289 and it’s about to hit the stores, although you might need to wait a bit longer for all versions.

How to start with Dental Photography? Here comes the cheapest EOS from Canon!

How to start with Dental Photography? Here comes the cheapest EOS from Canon!

Canon EOS R100: The Cheapest One So Far

Pouring your money into the best available equipment is easy, but is it necessary? If you’re a beginner in the dental photography industry, no. The cheapest Canon EOS will do for start. Even though it has some limits.
Most importantly, the camera has automatic subject detection function and eye detection function, which are crucial when it comes to dental portrait photography. It won’t detect animals or other objects, but who cares?

Viewfinder? Same as in the R50, but there’s no touch screen nor matrix stabilization. The SD slot works only with the slower UHS-I cards, you should keep that in mind if fast pace is something you really care about. There’s no secondary screen on the main panel, but the knob with shooting modes should be enough and comfortable.

Of course, if you’re switching to a mirrorless from your smartphone, you’ll be happy to use the automatic settings. But let us tell you: the semi automatic or manual settings are the best way to squeeze as much as possible out of such a simple mirrorless camera.

If you’re still working with your smartphone, switching to EOS R100 will be a huge step in your dental intraoral and digital photography. Not to mention the comfort!

EOS R100 Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Built-in Flash
  • Normal fixed LCD screen, not a flippy thing
  • People, Face and Eye detection.
  • 1/250 flash sync speed.
  • Programmable buttons
  • Wi-Fi.
  • Bluetooth
  • 100% U.S.A. and EU -based high-quality technical support
  • Affordable yet capable
  • Great image quality
  • Easy to learn and use

Cons

  • No touchscreen
  • Limited ISO sensitivity
  • Very basic camera missing many features most of us have come to take for granted
  • No ultrasonic sensor cleaner, and Canon’s specifications say “Manual cleaning (by hand) not supported.”
  • No USB charging
  • No in-camera Image Stabilization
  • No universal preset C1, C2 or C3 memory modes to recall entire sets of camera settings in one click
  • LCD doesn’t flip or til
  • Traditional hot shoe; has no direct-digital connections for modern microphones and some of Canon’s newest flashes
  • Flash doesn’t work with the electronic shutter
  • Control Ring on the control ring EF to RF Adapter doesn’t work (EF to RF Adapter otherwise works great).
  • No second card slot
  • No advance mode lever
  • No shutter speed dial
  • No ISO dial
  • No battery percentage meter, just an icon

Check out other dental photography cameras!

Nikon Z8’s leak: first specs and pics of the upcoming camera!

Nikon Z8’s leak: first specs and pics of the upcoming camera!

Let’s be clear about it: we’re talking about rumors and leaks and we can’t be sure what will be confirmed and how it will affect dental photography. Nevertheless, we’d like to take a closer look at the first Z8 probable specs and pictures!

The Z8’s about to have similar specs to the famous Z9, but its form factor is much closer to the shape of the Nikon Z7 II, rather than the Z9. Will it be considered a good idea for your dental photography equipment?

What do we know so far?

  • Nikon Z8 will weigh under 1kg and measure 144x118x83mm (5.6×4.6×3.2in) and will have a 3.2-inch tilting LCD rear screen, and either a 3MP or 9MP electronic viewfinder
  • Nikon Z8 is rumored to feature a 45.7 megapixel stacked sensor, capable of 20 frames per second when shooting in RAW or 120 frames per second when shooting JPEG only, with a maximum shutter speed of 1/32000
  • Reportedly, it can record in 10-bit HEIF image files, HEIF images have a better compression algorithm than JPEGS
  • Its sensor is reportedly capable of ISO 64-25,600, although we suspect that this number will be a lot higher when you take into account manually increased speeds
  • Nikon Z8 looks set to include one CFExpress card slot and one regular SD slot.

The camera is already called a “mini Z9”, and the Z8 will also have a pro-level price, apparently costing around $5000/£4800. The Nikon Z8 should also be with us very soon, with Nikon reportedly gearing up for a big marketing campaign.

We’ll keep you posted on the subject and, as usual, we’ll check if the camera is suited for dental digital and intraoral photography!

Check out our Cameras Online Training!

Sigma and Tamron are knocking Sony and Nikon out of the top 3 in the lens market!

Sigma and Tamron are knocking Sony and Nikon out of the top 3 in the lens market!

If you’re looking for a dental photography lens to make your portrait and intraoral photos even better, it’s time to take some new players under consideration. Warning: you might be shocked!

For the longest time, Canon, Nikon and Sony were the kings of lenses and we, dental photographers, couldn’t imagine working in our dental offices without them. But things change! In the last few years Sigma and Tamron have not only released some seriously shout-worthy lenses, but they’re often a lot more affordable than first-party equivalents.

And while Canon stays on top of the sales rank, the second and third place are pretty surprising.

Have you seen our Online Course: Lenses?

From the latest Japanese data there is just 3.3% separating the top 5 market shareholders in the interchangeable lens market, with Canon in first place (17.1%), Sigma in second (16%), Tamron coming in third (15.1%) followed by Sony in fourth (14.2%) and finally Nikon in fifth (13.8%).

The results show that the interchangeable lens market is booming, that the popular manufacturers aren’t as powerful as they used to be and that a famous name doesn’t mean an obvious success.

And, what’s more, cameras with interchangeable lenses are gaining in popularity and this is living proof of the fact that smartphones aren’t enough. Especially in dental digital photography.

Check out what the Sigma’s CEO said about their new products!

Dental Photography Lens with best magnification ever?! Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO

Dental Photography Lens with best magnification ever?! Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO

Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO

If you’re using the Olympus system in your dental photography practice, this one’s for you!

The Micro 4/3 macro lens users finally can choose the long-focus lens.

The lens offers the highest ever magnification which will be helpful especially in intraoral photography. Shooting a single tooth won’t be an issue! What’s more, the lens allows creativity and it’s not so usual with other, regular macro lenses. We’re pretty sure you’ll be happy with it if macro photography is your hobby in general, apart from the dental photography industry.

The automatic stacking system lets the lens work smoothly with all the OM system cameras. Sharp pictures are guaranteed! The 2x macro combined with the Micro 4/3 gives the 4x magnification for the 35 mm format and when we’re talking stabilization, we mean perfection. You won’t need a tripod for intraoral photography and we know how big a difference it makes. Leaving a tripod at the dental office door means easier work and less inconveniences. 

Now, let’s move on to the technical data.

The 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO is an autofocus lens that delivers up to 2x macro (or 4x with a 2x teleconverter). Its stabilization system is compatible with the Sync IS system, allowing it to work in conjunction with in-body stabilization of Olympus/OM System cameras.

The lens is constructed from 18 elements, arranged in 13 groups. Its design has two focus groups that act in conjunction, allowing very close focus when the focus limit switch is in the ‘Macro’ position. The lens also has a focus ring that can be snapped back to reveal a focus distance scale and (on Olympus or OM System cameras) engage manual focus.

Of course, its macro possibilities are only one of many features and it will cope with a dental portrait and creating a dental portfolio as well. 

KEY FEATURES

  • High resolution macro lens
  • Exceptional Magnification–Delivers 4x equivalent shooting when paired with the MC-20 2x teleconverter
  • Autofocus without limits–High speed, high precision AF
  • High performance 5-axis image stabilization
  • Built to enable split-second macro shooting capabilities
  • IP534 splash proof and dustproof performance
  • Freezeproof down to 14°F
  • Fluorine coating
  • Weight: approx. 453 g5 (lens only)

The OM System 90mm F3.5 macro IS pro’s price tag is $1,499.99.

Check out our Online Training: Lenses course!

Canon confirms it once again: DSLRs aren’t dead!

Canon confirms it once again: DSLRs aren’t dead!

DSLRs are dead!

You may expect it year after year but hold your horses. If we weren’t sure until now, now we are, because Canon says it without any doubt: DLSRs are alive and they’re fine and you can work with them as a dental photographer. 

Canon still accounts for a third of the entire camera market, with as many as 1.8 million digital SLRs being sold last year! And of course, Canon sells more than anyone else.

Why would anyone think that this is the end of the DSLR era? Well, there were no new models shown during the last CP+ event. But there’s an easy explanation to that.

“CP+ is a place to present new products, and that’s why you won’t see many DSLRs this year. All companies are of course focusing on hybrids. But SLRs still represent 30% of global sales. That means there’s always demand for this range – and most DSLRs sold globally are made by Canon.

“There is also a high volume of lenses that are still intended for the DSLR ecosystem. We do not envisage a sudden end to SLRs, nor an instant switch to hybrids. Sure, there will likely be a gradual decline, but the demand is still there. – says Go Tokura, general manager of Canon’s Imaging Division.

Interestingly, as we can see, Canon distinguishes three camera types at the moment: mirrorless, hybrid and DSLRs. And the latter is still hanging in there.

Are you a DSLR or mirrorless fan in your dental office?

Check out our dental cameras online course!

If you enjoyed this article, you might be interested in Mirrorless vs DSLR in Dental Photography Register Now and Watch for Free the First Episode.

Eye-controlled AF coming to more EOS R. But not so soon

Eye-controlled AF coming to more EOS R. But not so soon

It’s our mission as a camera manufacturer to figure out ways to make any camera system easier and more comfortable to operate. So, in terms of the eye control system, or eye-controlled focus, we intend to deploy this to various other models as well. At the same time, we’d like to improve the performance and usability. – says Canon management at the CP+ Expo in Japan.

This means we can expect the eye-controlled AF in the next EOS Rs!

For us, dental photographers, it can be a groundbreaking feature. Taking intraoral photos means adjusting the focus more and more precisely. To be honest, it takes years of practice to master such conditions. With the eye-controlled AF digital dental photography and intraoral photography will become easier and more approachable.

The feature is already available in the R3, but for a dental digital camera, it’s quite expensive. We’re really happy to hear that every dental photographer, regardless of their cameras’ price, will be able to use this feature.

We’re just hoping it will be possible sooner rather than later!

As usual, we’ll keep you posted. Stay with us for more dental photography news!

It’s official. The EOS R1 will be Canon’s “most premium model”

It’s official. The EOS R1 will be Canon’s “most premium model”

Canon has officially confirmed that the Canon EOS R1 is in development – and that it “will be our most premium model.”

As you may remember, the first rumors about the new model’s development were out in November 2021. Today Canon has confirmed, for the first time, that the model is actually in process!

The statement was made by Go Tokura, general manager of Canon’s Imaging Division, during an interview with Photo Trend.

If you look at our portfolio, obviously our highest-end case is the EOS R3. I think we can say that it is our flagship product. (…)

So, of course, the EOS R3 could already claim the flagship title, but there’s a reason we named it ‘3’… And you can expect there to be a ‘1’, which is currently being worked on and will be our most premium model. So that’s the kind of interpretation you can do (laughs). I had never mentioned it so clearly before, so that’s probably how you can interpret it!”

Just a quick reminder of what we should expect. Will it be suited for dental photography?

  • We’re pretty sure that EOS R1 will be similar to Sony A1 or Nikon Z9. What does it mean? We’ll expect a high resolution sensor, high processing power and impressive speed, allowing us to work in a dynamic environment. On the other hand, the cameras are more and more advanced, so we’d like to see a totally new feature in EOS R1. This can be the best chance to set the new development direction and make dental photography and photography in general more intuitive.
  • The camera is said to not have any one specialty but will rather excel at all specialties, much like what Canon’s 5D series of DSLRs aimed to do by being accessible enough for amateurs yet powerful enough for professionals.
  • The camera will undoubtedly boast more features than the 5D line to work for professionals in ways 5D cameras were never designed to.
  • Other features and specs being mentioned include 45+ or even 85+ megapixels, 40 fps burst mode, 9 megapixels electronic viewfinder and 10 bit touch screen. Our source mentions a 100 megapixels sensor, global shutter and putting emphasis on the 8K quality. And then there’s also the new, patented in 2019 Quad Pixel AF system that has been mentioned for a while now.
  • And a price somewhere north of the R3’s $5,999.

Will the EOS R1 meet the dental photographers’ expectations? That’s for sure! Moreover, its features can be ever too much. It looks like the new Canon will be suited for dental photography lovers with a large budget. They’ll have to keep in mind the camera’s heavy weight, though.

When can we expect the Canon’s top model? All signs point to an early 2024 announcement, with a launch in time for the 2024 Olympic Games. More details should emerge into the light pretty soon and we’ll keep you posted!

The Canon Speedlite EL-5 release date postponed due to production issues

The Canon Speedlite EL-5 release date postponed due to production issues

Canon’s new speedlite – awaited also by dental photographers – has some problems on its way

Canon’ statement says: Regarding the “Speedlite EL-2022”, which was announced on November 11, 2 and scheduled to be released in March 2023, due to production reasons, we have decided to postpone the release to around the summer of 2023 because we cannot prepare a sufficient supply for the release.

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. 

(Before change) Scheduled to be released in March 2023

(After change) Scheduled to be released around summer 2023

The Speedlite EL-5 is to be Canon’s first to take advantage of the multi-function hotshoe found on its latest EOS R series mirrorless cameras.
It seems to be a potential, new dental photography equipment to choose.

Canon Speedlite EL-5 Specs

  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Radio Transmission
  • Guide Number: 197′ at ISO 100 and 200mm
  • Runs on LP-EL Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Modeling Lamp; Multi-Function Shoe
  • Zoom Range: 24-200mm (14mm with Panel)
  • Recycle Time: 0.1-1.2 Seconds
  • Extended Control from 1/1 to 1/1024
  • Joystick, Dial, and High-Definition LCD
  • Remote Control with Camera Connect App
  • Dust and Moisture-Resistant Construction
  • It will cost $399

Check out our online Dental Photography Flashes course!

Low Budget Dental Photography Lens for only $190! Is it worth buying?

Low Budget Dental Photography Lens for only $190! Is it worth buying?

Meike’s new APS-C mirrorless cameras 60mm f/2.8 Macro Lens has just been announced.

New, affordable lens for intraoral and portrait photography? Check out our cameras online lesson and Macro Lens guide – it will help you with the right choice for your dental photography set! If you’re looking for a low budget APS-C mirrorless camera lens, this one can be one of your options: new Meike’s 60mm f/2.8 Macro Lens.

The lens will be available in various mounts, including Sony E, Fujifilm X, Nikon Z, Canon EF-M and RF, and Micro Four Thirds.

Its price, $190, seems very reasonable as a dental photography accessory. The effective focal length depends on the mount, but on APS-C cameras, it will be roughly a 90mm equivalent macro lens, while on Micro Four Thirds, it’ll be a 120mm macro prime.

Looks like an affordable offer for dental photographers, always looking for the best macro shoots possible.

Meike’s 60mm f/2.8 Macro Lens Specs:

  • a nine-bladed aperture diaphragm
  • 1:1 magnification at its minimum focus distance of 6.9 inches (17.5 centimeters)
  • a manual aperture control ring with a ridged grip surface
  • weighs just over 10.5 ounces (300 grams)
  • price: $190

The lens is compatible with:

E mount : Sony E mount A7III A9 NEX 3 3N 5 NEX 5T NEX 5R NEX 6 7 A5000 A5100 A6000 A6100 A6300 A6500 .etc

X mount: Fuji X-Pro2 X-E3 X-T1 X-T2 X-T10 X-T20 X-A2 X-E2 X-E2s X-E1 X30 X70 X-M1 X-A1 XPro X-T5,etc DSLR Cameras

Z mount : Nikon Z Mount Cameras Z50, Z5, Z6, Z7 Z30 .etc Under APS-C Mode

EFM mount: Canon EFM-mount Cameras, such as: EOS M M2 M3 M5 .etc

RF mount: All Canon RF mount Cameras EOSR5 EOSR6 EOS-R EOS-RP .etc

M43 mount: For Olympus mirrorless camera E-P1 E-PL1 E-P2 E-PL2 E-P3 E-PL3 E-PL5 E-PM1 E-PM2 OM-D E-M5 E-P5 OM-D E-M1 OMD-EM10 and other Olympus Micro 4/3 cameras .etc

Panasonic Lumix G9 G1 G2 G3 G5 GF1 GF2 GF3 GF5 GF6 GF7 GH1 GH2 GH3 GH5 G6 GX1 GX7 GX8 GH4 GM1 GM5 -D E-M5 E-P5 OM-D E-M1 OMD-EM10 and other Panasonic Lumix Micro M4/3 MFT cameras .etc

Our review:

When it comes to practicality, please note that the shutter ring is placed on the front of the lens and it’s quite easy to change it accidentally while setting the focus. This is a thing to remember!

For the price, the lens’ work looks very decent. We need to lower our expectations, though. There’s no AF or any other automation, so setting the focus needs more focus 😉 Low budget comes with its price and that’s something to always keep in mind.

To sum up: please consider this device only if you’re not able to afford a better and more expensive one. Otherwise, don’t bother.

And if you’re still struggling with choosing the right Macro Lens, take our free advice!

The Nikon Z9’s Selectable Shutter Sounds are Real!

The Nikon Z9’s Selectable Shutter Sounds are Real!

You’d like to customize your shutter sounds when working with a patient? The Nikon’s Z9 will give it to you!
Nikon shared the selectable shutter sound during a live stream that it published to YouTube which was spotted by Nikon Rumors. There will be three sounds available: the standard Z9 click, a more DSLR-like click, and finally a shutter sound that is more akin to what has been heard from a Nikon film camera. The shutter sound volume can be adjusted between one and five — one being quiet, and five being the loudest.

Will the patient appreciate the real sound during a shoot? We’ll see. Rumor has it Nikon will consider adding other sounds, including fun ones such as the cat’s meow. If that doesn’t make your patient laugh, we don’t know what else will!

Canon EOS R50: Compact, light and accessible for dental photographers?

Canon EOS R50: Compact, light and accessible for dental photographers?

Canon EOS R50: Small and Cheap. What else?

Dental photographers can choose a new addition from the Canon’s family! Will one of the smallest and cheapest cameras be enough for a dental photographer?

The EOS R50 effectively replaces the EOS M50 II and marks the transition of the series to RF. The camera is said to replace the M50 Mark II, due to the use of the company’s now-standard RF mount lenses.

The camera has a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, advanced subject detection technology known from the Canon R6 Mark II and the new Canon R8, and uses the company’s newer DIGIC X processor. There’s no in-body image stabilization in the R50, but thanks to its light weight keeping the balance shouldn’t be an issue.

Impressive burst shooting 

The R50 is surprisingly adept at burst shooting for such a small camera!Itcan grab clips at up to 12 frames per second using its electronic/mechanical shutter mode, or 15 frames per second in fully electronic mode (with the risk of moving subjects appearing distorted if there’s too much lateral movement).

Battery

The EOS R50 uses the same LP-E17 battery as Canon’s other small ILCs. It’s a 7.5Wh battery which isn’t a lot to power a mirrorless camera. It’ll do well for snapping occasional photos as you go about your day, but if you devote any length of time to photos, always keep a spare battery while shooting your patient in a dental office with you to avoid unpleasant surprises. There’s nothing more stressful than your battery with your patient waiting on the chair!

Wi-Fi

Canon has also gone a long way to make connecting a camera to a phone or laptop as simple as possible, with several different methods of wirelessly transferring files.

Our verdict

Writing as a keen dental photographer, though, it’s hard to wholeheartedly recommend this camera. In my opinion, it can be the right choice for a beginner in the dental photography industry; due to its lightweight, you won’t be tired too quickly.

What about the lack of stabilization? Well, we’d recommend purchasing the right lens to ensure your intraoral photos will be spotless. Choosing the more expensive one will be smart, as you can always resell it and go to the next level.

You’ll need to keep in mind that changing settings – with no C1, C2 or C3 modes – will take more time than usual, and switching from portrait to intraoral photos is tricky and can cause a mistake. Searching for the right setting in the menu takes additional time and with your patient waiting it’s easy to choose the wrong option.

Definitely, this is a low-budget camera for beginners, so if you’re able to pay more, take the R10 or R8 under consideration.

If you’re a vlogger, this camera will be suited for you. Streaming your webinars online won’t be a problem!

EOS R50 Specs & Price:

  • OLED viewfinder with 2.36 million dots and a .96x magnification
  • LCD screen is a TFT color liquid crystal display with 1.62 million dots and is touch-control capable
  • electronic front curtain shutter and an electronic shutter (no full mechanical shutter in the R50)
  • JPEG and HEIF in addition to RAW and C-RAW recording
  • It can connect to smartphones wirelessly or via a USB cable for transmission. WiFi is the older 802.11b/g/n, and Bluetooth 4.2 LE
  • single SD card slot
  • Lens Mount RF (natively supporting RF and RF-S lenses) EF and EF-S lenses can be attached using Mount Adapter EF-EOS R, EF-EOS R Control Ring Mount Adapter, Drop-in Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R EF-M lenses are not compatible
  • ISO Sensitivity Auto 100-32000 (in 1/3-stop or whole-stop increments) ISO can be expanded to H: 51200
  • Built-in Flash GN (ISO 100, meters) 6

The camera costs $680, or, the RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM lenses, is available for $1,029.

You’re a beginner in dental photography? No worries! Check out our online Dental Photography Fundamentals online course!

Canon EOS R8: first reviews, specs and opinions. Good quality & friendly price?

Canon EOS R8: first reviews, specs and opinions. Good quality & friendly price?

How to describe it in one sentence? This is EOS R6 II tech in a smaller, compact body. But there’s more to know.

Canon says this full-frame mirrorless camera is for amateur photographers, but we’re always curious if the new “baby” can work in dental or intraoral photography. 24-megapixel sensor, Dual Pixel AF, the DIGIC X processor, AI-driven subject recognition – we know them already from EOS R6 II, but thanks to the lighter body the EOS R8’s price is much more friendly. And we must say, the sensor and processor are quite impressive for the price.

Canon EOS R8 main features

The camera weighs just over a pound (461 grams) with a battery, SD card, and no battery cap. It measures 5.22 x 3.39 x 2.76 inches (132.5 x 86.1 x 70.0 millimeters). There’s also a responsive and comfortable vari-angle touchscreen. The camera’s weight can be a big advantage for those of you who get easily tired with heavy dental cameras, we’re pretty sure female dental photographers will also appreciate this feature. On the other hand, heavy lenses and light bodies won’t provide proper balance, so, if you’re strong enough, we’d recommend choosing a more massive camera.

One SD card slot isn’t a huge issue, but something you’ll need to get used to. Changing the card won’t take long, after all!

The HDR feature is always important for dental photographers: it’s helpful when it comes to spot the details on a dental photo.

The control layout is simplified in this smaller body. You don’t get a joystick, there’s a simple D-pad rather than a rear wheel, and there are less buttons to customize. Some of the functions are harder to find, if you like to have them all at hand, take this under consideration

Dual Pixel CMOS II AF with tracking AF available for all modes will be useful while taking intraoral photos. But there’s more: Flexible AF can be paired with Eye Tracking and this feature is not to be underestimated when it comes to portrait shooting.

The camera uses a smaller battery which is also found on the Canon R50. Canon did not provide CIPA ratings for the battery in the R8, though in PetaPixel’s testing, the battery ran out before a full day of mixed video and still shooting.

Usual connection options are available: a multi-function shoe for compatibility with a range of accessories including external flash, 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 4.2, and MFI for direct connection with an Apple device, in addition to Android devices.

We’re not professional video makers, but let’s notice the possibility of recording 4K UHD at 60p for up to 30 minutes.

The camera doesn’t have in-body image stabilization (IBIS) which can cause a difficulty while macro shooting – a heavy 180 mm lens can upset the balance. If you’re taking photos under continuous light, the lack of IBIS can be even more noticeable.

Canon EOS R8: our verdict & price

  • good idea if you’re a lighter dental cameras fan
  • good idea if you’re aiming for the R6 photos quality, but don’t want to spend as much money; please remember that shooting and camera control will be more difficult
  • honestly, dental photographers, it’s up to you! Combining a lighter camera with a heavy lens can influence the balance and it can be less stable to hold. Our work requires long hours standing up or in an uncomfortable position; the R6 will be more expensive, but will also provide comfort.

Body alone, the R8 will cost $1,500. The kit with the R8 and 24-50mm are set to be priced at $1,700.

Key specifications:

  • 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Up to 40fps continuous shooting with e-shutter (6fps with mechanical)
  • 30fps Raw Burst mode with 1/2-second pre-buffering
  • Full-width 4K video from 6K capture at up to 60p
  • 10-bit C-Log3 or HDR PQ video capture
  • 10-bit HDR HEIF option
  • 2.36M dot OLED viewfinder (0.7x magnification)
  • Fully-articulated rear screen
  • 4-channel audio with optional XLR adapter

Check out our cameras online course!

Dental Photography Equipment: Firmware v1.1.1 for the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is now available

Dental Photography Equipment: Firmware v1.1.1 for the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is now available

Hello, dental photographers and Canon users!

The manufacturer has just released new firmware for its Canon EOS R6 Mark II. The new firmware adds support for the Speedlight EL-5 and a few bug fixes.

Here are the available fixes and changes:

  • support for the Speedlite EL-5
  • shortened startup time when Bluetooth is enabled
  • fixed a bug that FTP/FTPS/FTTP transfer could not be performed in IPv6
  • fixed minor bugs

The firmware can be downloaded here.

Dental Photography Post Production: Digital Workflow

Dental Photography Post Production: Digital Workflow

Consistency is the key to success! Your post production is your signature.

What is a digital workflow in dental photography? We’re working with hundreds of photos everyday and proper documentation is the best way to keep them in order. We don’t even want to think what can happen with photos kept in a digital mess! But your order has also influenced your clinic-Lab communication: finding the right file will take a blink of an eye.

Do you need more advantages to get started? Let’s mention faster clinical protocols, lower cost materials for your clinic or repeatability of work (you can always re-print a model).

You’re not sure if you’re interested? These are some of the topics explored in this lesson:

  • Workflow: setting your camera and importing your photos to your computer
  • File transfer: types of ports, cables, cards. Transfer speeds according to USB connector type.
  • File Storage & Backup: Archiving your items, Backup devices, Tips: how to provide a solid backup of your files?
  • Organizing Images: Various ways of organizing your photos, according to date/event/type.

There are so many reasons to watch this lesson– whether you’re in it for outcomes, efficiency, patient experience, the planet, or increasing the value of your practice. Choose one of them and watch our course!

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

Nikon’s leaving the DSLR market? Not so fast

Nikon’s leaving the DSLR market? Not so fast

Is Nikon dropping the DSLR in favor of the mirrorless sector?

The DSLR cameras have gained recognition around the world and among photographers in various industries. Dental photography included! Everyone knows some of the immortal models, like Nikon D750, working flawlessly for many, many years. Even though the camera itself was often passed from hand to hand. 

Recent Nikon rumors made us think: will dental photographers be forced to change their habits and start using mirrorless cameras? Or is it only a premature panic?

Even though the company’s focusing on the mirrorless cameras, Nikon isn’t planning to exit the DSLR branch yet. “It is true that we are concentrating development resources on mirrorless cameras,” but “We have not decided to end or withdraw from development. to produce, sell, and support single-lens reflex cameras” says Mr. Tokunari, Nikon’s Senior Managing Exec Officer/CFO.

 

This confirms Nikon’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Tokusei Yoshiaki announcement at the financial results briefing for the April-June 2022 period: “Nikon will continue to operate the single-lens reflex camera business. We have not decided to withdraw from development.

It looks like dental photographers can still use Nikon’s DLSRs and we shouldn’t be worried. Yet.

 

We’ll keep you posted as usual!

 

Don’t forget to watch our DSLR vs Mirrorless cameras online training with the first episode for FREE!

 

Canon EOS R8 ready? New camera to come in February!

Canon EOS R8 ready? New camera to come in February!

It seems like Canon has big news to announce!

The long-rumored Canon EOS R8 should finally see its debut in February, along with the new Canon RF-S 11-22mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM, a reimagining of the EF-M version for the manufacturer’s latest mirrorless mount.

What will the R8 be like and will it be useful in dental intraoral photography? That’s yet to be determined, but as an “8” it should be placed between the EOS R7 and EOS R10.  It is expected to share the same 24-megapixel APS-C sensor as the R10.

Not much is yet known about other features that will separate the EOS R8 from the other models, but according to Canon Rumors it will use a brand new type of ‘flippy screen’. Now they’ve got us curious!

What’s more, the new Canon RF-S 11-22mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM lens is supposed to be coming in the first half of 2023. It would likely be an update of the existing Canon EF-M 11-22mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens, which is a compact, wide-angle and versatile lens for Canon’s likely soon to be extinct EOS M camera range.

Not much is yet known about other EOS8’s features, but according to Canon Rumors it will use a brand new type of ‘flippy screen’.

The Canon EOS R8 is expected to be revealed at the CP+ show – the industry’s biggest camera and photography expo, taking place in Japan from February 23-26. We’ll keep you posted as usual!

The EOS R10 currently retails for just under $1,000 / £900 / AU$1,500 while the EOS R7 comes in at $1,500 / £1,350 / AU2,300. The EOS8 should be positioned between these two price tags.

 

Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D / EOS Kiss X10)

Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D / EOS Kiss X10)

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D in most regions) is an ultra-compact digital SLR that features a 24MP APS-C-sized CMOS sensor, DIGIC 8 processor and Dual Pixel autofocus system.

The main differences between the SL3 and SL2 is the addition of Eye AF during live view, an even smaller and lighter body, and 4K video.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

– 24MP APS-C-sized CMOS sensor
– Dual Pixel autofocus system
– DIGIC 8 processor
– fully articulating 3″ touchscreen display
– connectivity options include Wi-Fi (with NFC) and Bluetooth.

DENTAL PHOTOGRAPHY HIGHLIGHTS

Comfortable size

One of the smallest and lightest DSLR cameras

Built-in Wireless

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to transfer your photos quicker

Where to buy

Professional Studio Photography: Online Ultimate Course!

Professional Studio Photography: Online Ultimate Course!

How to use professional lights in dental digital photography? Take a look at our ready-to-use sets! Each lesson will show you various light set-ups that should be used in various needs. We’re not showing you the photo studio arrangement – we’re taking a step forward to give you pro tips and professional advice from the top photographer.

Follow our steps and prepare yourself and your dental photography business for an upgrade! We recommend this online course to all medium and advanced dental photography users.

Professional Studio Photography in practice

But first, why? Why should you sacrifice your time and money for professional pictures? Here are some examples:

    1. Use your dental intraoral photography skills to improve your company’s image
    2. Be able to stand out in social media
    3. You wouldn’t like to be left behind in the business, right?
    4. Completing the story of a case is professional and helps with the best possible diagnosis
    5. You can easily consult your work with other specialists or show it to the public!

We’re giving you 18 (!) episodes covering all the questions you may have about Professional Studio Photography.

  • Episode 1 – Introduction
  • Episode 2 – Backgrounds
  • Episode 3 – Collapsible Backgrounds
  • Episode 4 – Seamless Background Paper
  • Episode 5 – Type of light & Power of lighting
  • Episode 6 – Speedlight Flash System & Light Modifiers
  • Episode 7 – Monolights, Light Modifiers Part 1
  • Episode 8 – Monolights, Light Modifiers Part 2
  • Episode 9 – Parabolic Umbrella
  • Episode 10 – Softboxes
  • Episode 11 – Light Modifiers: Reflectors
  • Episode 12 – Compact Monolight Flashes
  • Episode 13 – Studio Light in Practice: Beauty Dish
  • Episode 14 – Studio Light in Practice: One Softbox
  • Episode 15 – Studio Light in Practice: Two Softboxes
  • Episode 16 – Studio Light in Practice: Octabox
  • Episode 17 – Studio Light in Practice: Octabox Part 2
  • Episode 18 – Studio Light in Practice: Parabolic Umbrella

Amazing studio, professional equipment and a pro – our new lessons are just perfect. Check out how to use modern equipment to get the most beautiful photographs! Take your time to learn and invest in your career.

Remember to register for free!

The New Laowa PeriProbe Lens With a Rotating Front Optic: Good for Dental Photography?

The New Laowa PeriProbe Lens With a Rotating Front Optic: Good for Dental Photography?

Laowa PeriProbe Lens: Can it be used in Dental Photography?

Venus Optics has just unveiled a new unique macro lens: the Laowa 24mm T14 2x PeriProbe. With the same features as the previous Laowa probe lens, it also provides a surprise: a 90-degree rotating periscope tip at the end!

 

Thanks to its long, narrow tube, the PeriProbe can reach deep inside tiny holes or can be helpful in dental intraoral photography. Its periscope can “dive” into the mouth with a 360-degree rotation while keeping the majority of the camera out of the way. Can you imagine that?

Laowa_Periprobe_Cine_Lens_EF_6_ Laowa_Periprobe_Cine_Lens_EF_5

Laowa_Periprobe_Cine_Lens_EF_4 Laowa_Periprobe_Cine_Lens_EF_1

 

The PeriProbe lens comes with a 1/2-20-inch thread towards the end for attaching magic arms and extra lighting in order to illuminate tiny objects in the macro range.

The Venus Optics Laowa 24mm T14 2x PeriProbe lens is already available and it costs $2,299.

Is this the future of dental intraoral photography? It sure looks interesting, but will it be possible to use in our dental photography industry? As we all know, intraoral photography can be tricky with its narrow photo object!

In our opinion, the lens can be an interesting addition to your dental photography kit.

 

Looking for an honest online training? Check out our lessons about flashes in dental photography!

 

Canon EOS R7 and Canon EOS R10, the EOS 7D Mark II and EOS 90D replacement?

Canon EOS R7 and Canon EOS R10, the EOS 7D Mark II and EOS 90D replacement?

Canon EOS R7 and EOS R10

As we predict – thanks to many trade rumors – Canon is about to announce the Canon EOS R7 and Canon EOS R10, two mirrorless models with APS-C sensors.

But there’s more. Various sources say that these new models could be direct replacement for the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and Canon EOS 90D. That’s all according to news site CanonWatch, who think we could have an official announcement as soon as 24 May! The EOS R7 was thought to be a replacement for the Canon EOS 7D line, as Canon has been focusing on its EOS R line-up for some time, and a mirrorless version of the EOS 7D II could definitely attract dental photographers who want the reach of an APS-C sensor (and a more affordable body).

Will the new EOS R7 and EOS R10 be the right choice for dental photographers?

EOS R7: Specs

What do the rumors say?  EOS R7’s technical specs include a 32.5-MP APS-C sensor with Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus, a 15-30fps continuous shooting speed, 4K video recording at 60/50fps (NTSC/PAL), 1080p recording at 120/100fps, and In-Body Image Stabilization.

We can be sure: such specs seem really enough for a dental photographer.

EOS R10: Is it happening at all?

We’re still not sure whether the EOS R10 is a real thing. None of these reports have been officially commented on by Canon itself.

But – if it is true – Canon Rumors has listed a few possible specs for the EOS R10, which if true, could make the EOS M camera line seem redundant. These include a 24.2MP sensor, 15-23fps (using the mechanical/electronic shutter), and 1x UHS-II SD card slot. These are more modest than the EOS R7, and suggest that the EOS R10 could be pitched as the entry-level RF Mount camera with an APS-C image sensor.

If CanonWatch has a good source, we only need to wait a few days and everything should be clear! Stay tuned, we’ll keep you posted.

And if you want to know more about the mirrorless cameras, feel free to register and watch our DSLR vs Mirrorless online course. It won’t cost you a thing! 

Canon or Nikon Flash Replacement: Godox MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash

Canon or Nikon Flash Replacement: Godox MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash

If you’re looking for your Canon or Nikon flashes replacement for Dental Photography, here’s a new option:  Godox MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash.

Compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, Fuji, and Pentax DSLR cameras with a hot shoe, the MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash from Godox illuminates your subject with a soft and even light, which is ideal for revealing small, close-up details – an indispensable skill when it comes to intraoral photography.

 

godox-mf-r76-macro-ring-flash-5      godox-mf-r76-macro-ring-flash-6

 

godox-mf-r76-macro-ring-flash-3 2         godox-mf-r76-macro-ring-flash-7

Godox says that “with a ring shape design and a flash head allowed to be directly attached on the front of a lens, it provides illumination without getting in the way or casting harsh shadows, which is deemed an ideal option for photographers to shoot the close-up images both on location and in the studio”. These features do look perfect for us, dental photographers!

The ring light consists of two components: a controller that slips into your camera’s hot shoe, and the ring flash, which mounts on your lens. Godox includes 49, 52, 55, 58, 62, 67, 72, and 77mm adapter rings to ensure wide compatibility with most lenses. The control unit powers the system via a long-lasting rechargeable lithium battery, which can provide up to 660 full-power flashes. The manual unit regulates light intensity in 1/3 EV increments from 1/1 full power to 1/128, and a large LCD panel conveniently displays flash settings for easy navigation and control.

godox-mf-r76-macro-ring-flash-1

Godox MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash is now available for $279.

Looking for an honest online training? Check out our lessons about flashes in dental photography!

Venus Optics: The Smallest 2x Macro for Any Full Frame Camera is now available!

Venus Optics: The Smallest 2x Macro for Any Full Frame Camera is now available!

Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro for L-Mount Available for Any Full Frame

What a news from Venus Optics! The Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO it launched last year for Nikon Z, Canon RF, Sony E, and Leica M mounts is being released for Leica L-Mount. This means we can purchase the Smallest 2x Macro for Any Full Frame Camera!

Laova

Please read more about the lens itself here!

Just a quick reminder: Venus Optics says that the lens can focus from infinity to 2x magnification and features a minimum focusing distance of 6.31-inches. At 2x magnification, small objects that are normally difficult to see are captured with considerable detail. Moreover, the lens is small and light which means that it is more flexible and easier to use in a variety of shooting situations. For us, dental photographers, this lens will be comfortable while shooting intraoral pictures, with high quality of details guaranteed.

The lens features three extra-low dispersion elements that eliminate color fringing at both in-focus and out-of-focus areas, which it claims allows the lens to render magnified photos with no chromatic aberration. The front element does not extend outwards when focus is changed which avoids collision with subjects and prevents dust from entering the lens.

laowalmount001-1

The Smallest 2x Macro for Any Full Frame Camera Price

The Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is, according to Venus Optics, the smallest 2x macro lens available for full-frame cameras. It weighs 259 grams and is 3.18-inches long by 2.08-inches wide.

The new L-mount option for the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is available for $450.

kiva_8556_4-534x800 Stewartwood_8556_1-533x800

Jimmychan_8556_4-800x533 Emanuelebiggi_8556_22-800x532

 

New Smallest 2x Macro for Full Frame from Venus Optics: 85mm f/5.6 APO

New Smallest 2x Macro for Full Frame from Venus Optics: 85mm f/5.6 APO

What a news for dental photography industry!

Venus Optics has just announced the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO. It is claimed to be the smallest 2x macro for any full-frame camera.

It works with Nikon Z, Canon RF, Sony E and Leica M mounts.

laowa-85mm-on-a-nikon-z7-2048x1070 laowa-85mm-on-a-canon-r6-2048x906laowa-85mm-f5.6-apo-2x-macro-lens-2048x918

Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO details:

  • specially designed for Full Frame mirrorless cameras
  • the most compact 2x macro lens on the market
  • 259 grams (9.12 ounces), 3.18-inches long by 2.08-inches wide
  • the APO design allows the lens to produce photos with minimal chromatic aberration
  • made to cast aside the normal bulky and heavy macro lenses that are available without sacrificing image quality
  • the lens can focus from infinity to 2x magnification and features a minimum focusing distance of 6.31-inches
  • a seven-bladed aperture diaphragm, an angle of view of 28.55-degrees, and a front filter thread size of 46mm

 

This light lens is perfect for light mirrorless cameras used in dental digital photography, especially if you’re not a fan of heavy equipment. What’s more, with its 2x magnification will be comfortable to use in various dental photography circumstances. We’re pretty sure it will prove itself in many situations, e.g. preparing your dental portfolio or extracting very small details, so important in our practice.

Check out some photos made with the new lens:

Stewartwood_8556_2-1200x800-1 NickyBay_8556_12-1200x800-1 Jimmychan_8556_4c Emanuelebiggi_8556_22-x Don-Komarechka_8556_3 Alberto_8556_16 Alberto_8556_14 Alberto_8556_3-1200x800-1

The Venus Optics Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is available for $499.

Check out our Online Training: Lenses!

 

Canon EOS R1 in Development: First Rumors & Details

Canon EOS R1 in Development: First Rumors & Details

Canon EOS R1: What should we expect?

Various online sources confirm: Canon EOS R1 has indeed been in development. The camera will presumably be the company’s flagship body just as the EOS 1D line was in Canon’s DSLR stable.

So, what do we know?

  • The camera is said to not have any one specialty but will rather excel at all specialties, much like what Canon’s 5D series of DSLRs aimed to do by being accessible enough for amateurs yet powerful enough for professionals.
  • The camera will undoubtedly boast more features than the 5D line to work for professionals in ways 5D cameras were never designed to.
  • other features and specs being mentioned include 45+ megapixels, 8K video recording at various framerates, and a price somewhere north of the R3’s $5,999.

As Canon Rumors say, Canon will continue its recent process of refining in-development cameras based on feedback from photographers.

A source tells Canon Rumors that the R1 will be a “jack of all trades, and a master of none. Except that it will be a master of everything.” That’s a bold statement, right?

It looks like the end of 2021 is full of interesting novelties, like Nikon z9. We will keep you posted!

 

Mirrors in Dental Photography: Tips and Training

Mirrors in Dental Photography: Tips and Training

Mirrors in Dental Digital Photography

How can we divide the mirrors used in photographic documentation in dentistry?

Two primary divisions take into account the shape of the mirror and the material from which the light-reflecting coating is made.

The shape of the mirror allows it to be applied and placed in a specific area of ​​the mouth. Individual shapes may additionally differ in size, which allows for the comfort of work and individual adjustment of tools for a given patient. Oh, when choosing mirrors, do not forget about the handles for them. This will make it easier for you to keep the mirror in the optimal position while taking pictures.

What about coatings? Chromium, rhodium, titanium, and dielectric – these are the main and most common types. Why is it important? Each of them has the same purpose – to reflect light. However, these coatings have a different percentage of light reflectance from their surfaces. This affects the brightness of the image that we see while composing a picture in the mirror.

But caring for these mirrors can, of course, be difficult. Our expert will share with you tips on how to clean mirrors … or rather, how not to clean them, but how to keep them clean. You will also learn how to protect the mirror against fogging.

And finally, prices: what to look for when choosing mirrors?

Thanks to our experience, we can explain it in an easy way.

Visit our Online Training now!

Nikon confirms an Unusual Rear LCD in Z9

Nikon confirms an Unusual Rear LCD in Z9

New Nikon Z9’s teaser

Since releasing Z9’s specification in March, we’ve been waiting for more details of this awaited Full-Frame. And there they are!

Nikon has published a 30-second spot with a preview of the rear LCD. And we know already: it won’t be like every other on the market.

As we can see, the LCD can be tilted up and down — up for shooting at low angles and down for when shooting with the camera above the head. But we’ve known this already from Sony. The real icing on the cake is the final scene of the video: it shows that the LCD can also tilt inwards. We must say: we didn’t see that coming!

We’re still waiting for the Z9’s full release.

You can find more about Dental Photography cameras here!

 

Retractors in Dental Photography: Tips and Training

Retractors in Dental Photography: Tips and Training

Retractors in Dental Digital Photography

We bet you know retractors from different applications in dental procedures. However, you will surely need them in your dental office for dental photo documentation. Without them, taking retracted intraoral pictures can be a difficult and time-consuming process.

The purpose of using retractors is always the same, but different shapes, sizes, and construction can help or disturb a comfortable photo session for both parties – patient and dental staff. In our Online Training, you will see how to place a retractor in the patient’s mouth in a comfortable way – our expert has some tips you can use here – because this comfort is crucial.

Retractors’ sizes and materials are also discussed. In various photoshoots, you can choose or prefer to use plastic or metal retractor. And, going further, depending on the type of photographs you take, you will need a single-sided or classic self-retracting retractor.

Also, you can expect some additional tips and tricks about retractors from our expert.

Visit our Online Training section now!  👉Accessories for Dental Photography: Retractors

 

Canon EOS R3: All Details Revealed!

Canon EOS R3: All Details Revealed!

Canon EOS R3: What to expect?

Canon has finally revealed the full details of its latest professional camera, the awaited EOS R3.

So, just to start, the camera features a backside-illuminated stacked 24.1-megapixel sensor, up to 30 frames per second blackout-free shooting, and 6K RAW video capture. Let’s have a look:

  • A new, fast sensor: a brand-new Canon-developed back-illuminated stacked CMOS 24.1-megapixel sensor, powered by Canon’s DIGIC X processor. Canon says that the photos taken with the R3 are better quality than its higher-resolution precursors despite fewer megapixels! If we’re to believe Canon, the fantastic readout speed of the sensor causes minimum rolling electronic shutter distortion. The EOS R3 can support flash sync with its electronic shutter at up to 1/180 second at up to 15 frames per second and is able to perform autofocus calculations and tracking at up to 60 frames per second during continuous shooting with the electronic shutter.  This means it doubles the speed at which the camera is able to capture images. HR_EOS_R3_1_CL
  • ISO: The camera also has higher sensitivity with a native ISO range of 100 to 102.400 that is expandable up to 204,800 for still shooting purposes. The EOS R3 uses Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 1,053 autofocus points and tracking performance that is accurate even as low as EV -7.5 (this is 0.5 lower than the original estimation of -7 seen in a previous development announcement).
  • Autofocus tracking: the system is able to acquire a subject simply by getting close to it. Although it sounds difficult to explain, Canon showed the way it works: how a tracking point that was set to one corner of the screen came close to a face and indicated that even though the face was outside the tracking area, it recognized it as a trackable object and gave the photographer the ability to jump to the face and immediately track it.HR_EOS_R3_4_CL
  • A new electronic viewfinder: an integrated Eye-Control Autofocus into the EOS R3’s viewfinder for the first time in an EOS digital camera, extremely accurate and intuitive to use. Canon says that it features a new 5.76-million-dot, 120 frames-per-second OLED that was designed and developed by Canon.
  • Design: the EOS R3 uses a one-piece magnesium alloy design that integrates the body with a vertical grip section. The camera body is weather and dust-resistant.HR_EOS_R3_7_CLHR_EOS_R3_5_CL
  • Memory & Wireless: It supports wired LAN, 5gHz WiFi, USB, and Bluetooth. It has two memory card slots, one that supports CFexpress and one for UHS0II SD cards. The rear display is a vari-angle 3.2-inch 4.3-million dot LCD that integrates touch, similar to what is found on the other EOS R series cameras. HR_EOS_R3_9_CL HR_EOS_R3_8_CL
  • Video performance: the ability to shoot in 6K RAW quality

Although the EOS R3 is rumored to be a “photojournalists'” camera, we hope it will work smoothly in our dental photography industry as well.

The EOS R3 price? $5.999.

Still not sure what should you choose: DSLR or Mirrorless? We’ve got it covered in our Online Training!

 

Canon EOS R3: New Specs and Details Revealed!

Canon EOS R3: New Specs and Details Revealed!

Canon EOS R3: Features, Photos and Availability

We’ve just informed you about the new EOS R3, top new class camera, and now we can show you even more!

While Canon still has not revealed pricing or availability for the camera, it has published new information on how the camera can be expected to function. Moreover, the company published a set of images of the camera with and without RF lenses attached: what do you think about it?

But what is important to us? Of course, its features that can be useful in dental photography. Let’s take a look.

As for the EOS R3’s features, here is all we know:

  • the R3 will offer what Canon is describing as “enhanced autofocus performance” and tracking capabilities that are bolstered by Deep Learning technology – this new feature will make it ideal for photographers who are attempting to photograph fast-moving motorsports: that sounds interesting!
  • the camera will be able to operate its autofocus in extremely low lighting conditions down to EV -7: we like it because of intraoral photography! Taking intraoral photos with flashlights, but without model light, was really hard; that is why we always recommended manual AF. It seems like  this new feature will change a lot!
  • the camera also will have up to eight stops of image stabilization through a combination of on-sensor stabilization and optical stabilization with RF lenses that feature optical image stabilization: perfect for dental photographers working with continous light! Thanks to this feature they won’t be limited with short shutter speed and they won’t need to worry about blurred photos. Using lights with lower power will be more comfortable for patients and will consume less electricity – and we do like caring about environment!petapixel_R3_frontSlant_RF24-70-F2.8 petapixel_R3_frontSlant_RF70-200 petapixel_R3_frontSlant_RF600-F4
  • it will be able to shoot oversampled 4K video with Canon Log 3 support as well as record RAW video internally
  • the R3 will come outfitted with one CFexpress card slot and one SD card slot: useful for those of you who will change DSLR to R3 – you can still use your CF cards
  • it will be powered by the same LP-E19 battery that currently operates the 1DX Mark III, which means photographers who already own the company’s flagship DSLR will be easily able to swap to the R3: this battery is really long-lasting, no more everyday charging
  • the vari-angle touchscreen is making its way to a full-size, integrated vertical grip camera for the first time in Canon’s history on the R3
  • the Canon R3 will be the first digital mirrorless camera to feature Canon’s Eye-Control AF

Having said all this, Canon is still silent about the R3’s release date and/or price. We will keep you posted!

And if you’re looking for a professional, honest online dental photography course, you can’t miss our Studio Light in Dental Office lessons!

ImagenAI: Artificial Intelligence Will Edit Your Photos

ImagenAI: Artificial Intelligence Will Edit Your Photos

ImagenAI New Editing App

ImagenAI has announced its AI-powered photo editing desktop app for Adobe Lightroom workflows.

Its artificial intelligence’s aim is to learn your personalized editing style. In your AI profile the app analyzes each image and predicts how you will edit and apply it in a matter of seconds.

How should it be used? First, you need to teach the app your particular editing style. ImagenAI asks for 5,000 or more of your previously edited photos in a Lightroom catalog, necessary to learn your editing style. Remember: the larger the sample size provided, the more accurate a profile it can generate. The system training will take a few days, and it will inform you via e-mail about the next steps to take. Thanks to using only artificial intelligence, the app promises to work much faster than any other tool that needs the human element.

Watch this video:

The application works on both PC and Mac and is free to try for your first 1000 images. After this limit, you can choose to cancel or to sign up for the service on a $7 monthly subscription plus a “pay-per-use” fee that scales down in cost the more images you send through per month.

Will this app help dental photographers in their everyday work? As soon as we can check this, we’ll let you know!

The emergence of artificial intelligence has made itself more significant over the last few years: Adobe, Skylum and Canon have their own tools and it seems like there will be more.

Check out our online course on postproduction!

Canon EOS R5 with IBIS Bug?

Canon EOS R5 with IBIS Bug?

Canon EOS R5 produces blurry photos?

Well, that’s unexpected!

A Canon EOS R5 user has reported a replicable glitch that appears to be caused by using the camera’s in-body image stabilization which results in blurry photographs.

The problem occured while shooting in a mode where in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is set to “always on.” What happened?

Straight from the horse’s mouth: while shooting, the first picture produced in the sequence is significantly more blurry than any pictures thereafter. However, if the shutter continues to be half-pressed, while in single or continuous autofocus, photographs produced come out just fine.

This stands in the opposite of Canon’s introducing EOS R5 and R6 cameras as the “first Canon cameras with 5-axis in-body” IBIS, which can “deliver an industry-leading 8-stops of IS when the cameras are paired with certain lenses“.

Canon responded that its technical team is currently investigating the issue.

We’re waiting for the next steps of this issue and will keep you posted.

Check out more details on the R5 here!

Canon Unveils RF100mm f/2.8 L Macro: For Dental Photographers, Finally!

Canon Unveils RF100mm f/2.8 L Macro: For Dental Photographers, Finally!

New Canon RF100mm f/2.8 L Macro: Details

This is huge! Welcome the “world’s first medium telephoto macro lens” for mirrorless that is designed for a wide range of photographers and that offers a unique new feature: a Spherical Aberration (SA) Control Ring. What does it mean for digital dental photography?

Thanks to the bokeh effect dental photos can be not only technical, but artistic as well. And this brings our work to a whole new level.

The new RF-mount lens is designed specifically for macro photography and features a maximum magnification of 1.4x. That new SA control ring allows users to change the character and appearance of the bokeh to obtain a softer focus effect.

Just look at Canon’s official movies:

Let’s sum it up:

  • the world’s first medium telephoto AF Macro lens with a maximum magnification of 1.4x (as of 4/14/21).
  • this lens is perfect for portraits and intraoral photography, and has an SA (Spherical Aberration) Control Ring that lets you change the look and style of the foreground and background blur.
  • built-in optical stabilization with up to five stops of “Shake Correction” and when combined with a camera’s In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS) can achieve up to eight stops of shake correction through coordinated operation between the two features.

 

 

  • nine-bladed aperture and a range of f/2.8 to f/32 with a minimum focusing distance of 10.2 inches (0.26 meters).

The Canon RF100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM is set to go on sale in July for $1,400.

And while we’re talking about Canon’s news, we need to mention the new EOS R3 – check out some details!

Canon EOS R3: First Details of a “New Class of Camera”

Canon EOS R3: First Details of a “New Class of Camera”

What do we know about the new Canon EOS R3?

Canon has just announced the development of what will be the highest-spec RF-mount camera yet, the EOS R3. It will sit between the R5 and the 1DX series. The few details that have been released point towards a very interesting camera. Canon hasn’t given away a lot away in this announcement, but it’s provided enough lines for us to read between them.

What does the body say us? It looks like it will feature a brand-new, single-piece camera body with an integrated vertical grip section, weather and dust resistance. And, as Canon promises, the camera is designed to provide “reliability and durability demands of professionals even when working in challenging conditions”. And although the R3 looks a bit like the 1DX, we’re almost sure that Canon will keep it smaller and lighter. If it will, then this camera will be a great choice for dental photographers.

What are the main features known for today?

SENSOR

  • the EOS R3 will feature Canon’s first-ever full-frame backside-illuminated sensor that it designed in-house and that the company promises will provide substantially faster readout speeds during still-imaging recording.
  • Maybe the EOS R3 will be balanced and reasonable while the monstrous 85-MegaPixel R1 is planned to surprise us with its craziness. But we’re just guessing, after all.

AF

  • the R3 will use the autofocus technologies found in both the R5 and R6, including Canon’s body and eye-detection, but boosted to work even better during action-type shooting thanks to Deep Learning technology.
  • the electronic viewfinder (EVF) will feature the ability to select the initial area for AF tracking simply by looking at the viewfinder.
  • two super-telephoto lenses also announced today for the RF mount: the RF400mm f/2.8 L IS USM and RF600mm f/4 L IS USM

R3: the predecessor of R1?

Probably we will also get the possibility of flash and electronic shutter synchronization, just as in SONY A1. We’ve also heard about the Quad Pixel AF system and the burst mode of 40 fps, but it seems like the EOS R3 won’t have these features.

Maybe the EOS R3 will be balanced and reasonable while the monstrous 85-MegaPixel R1 is planned to surprise us with its craziness. But we’re just guessing, after all.

The price and exact time of the premiere of this new, life-changing are yet to be announced. Will the EOS R3 be a good equipment for digital dental photography? We will keep you posted!

And while we’re waiting here, check out this news about:

Canon DSLR’s lenses – is it true that they will be unavailable soon?

Is It The Last Chance to Buy Canon’s DSLR Lens?

Is It The Last Chance to Buy Canon’s DSLR Lens?

Are Canon’s DSLR lenses over?

We’ve got some news for dental photographers who are planning to buy Canon DSLR lens: you might need to hurry up!

Rumors say, five popular lenses have been marked as “no longer available” at some retailers including popular optics like the 85mm f/1.2L USM II and the 70-200mm f/4L IS USM II. Luckily for us, working in dental photography industry, only the 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM will be withdrawn.

But what’s happening here? Back in 2020, as we reported, Canon stated that it would be ignoring its EF lineup to focus entirely on RF announcements. And as we couldn’t believe it then, it seems pretty official now.

The company reportedly started discontinuing lenses in February with the EF 40mm f/2.8 STM. That list has been growing at a surprising pace, with the 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM, 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM II, 85mm f/1.2L USM II, and 200mm f/2L I USM all joining inside the last two months.

Some of the lenses are still available, but only until they’re in stock. And will it influence us, dental photographers? We will keep you posted!

Dental Photography: How To Recover Accidentally Removed Data?

Dental Photography: How To Recover Accidentally Removed Data?

How to Recover Deleted Data?

In dental digital photography we take thousands of pictures and each one can be “the one”, right?

Do you know this horrible feeling, when your work, data and files are regularly lost or accidentally deleted by formatting a memory card before saving files? We wouldn’t wish it on our worst enemy, but, unfortunately, these things happen. And it’s better to be prepared.

New Tools for Dental Photographers

That is why we all should know a new data recovery tool, Data Recovery Wizard, that is also available for free. It is provided by EaseUS. This tool allows you to recover a vast range of files, whether it is audios, videos, photographs, emails, documents, or any other types of files that you have lost.

The free version will allow you to recover the same files with 2GB limit. You can also choose the paid version ($89.95 for MAC and $69.95 for WINDOWS to get unlimited data recovery, remote assistance and other features). The tool is available on both Mac and Windows devices. The way it works is that you download the stand-alone software. Then you have an option to pick a device, connected to your laptop or computer, to begin scanning. If it’s a memory card, you simply connect or plug it in as you normally would. After selecting your chosen device, a scan is performed and any available files are retrieved.

Check out our Postproduction in Dental Photography Online Course!

But this is not the only tool that can help. SanDisk RescuePRO® will also help dental photographers, as it can recover a variety of file types including images, video, documents, music, and hundreds of other popular file types.

Well, this cheers us up a bit – although we’re not planning to delete any files, it’s good to know we’ve got a backup!

Digital Workflow? Learn all about it thanks to our Online Course!

Nikon News: Z9 Development in Progress!

Nikon News: Z9 Development in Progress!

Nikon’s Full-Frame Flagship Camera with New Features

Nikon has officially announced the development of the Z9.

The new Z9 will:

  • use a newly developed stacked CMOS sensor and processing engine

    support 8K video

  • have various other, new video specifications

The image accompanying the announcement shows a camera larger than the Z6/Z7 II, with what appears to be an integrated vertical grip.

The company is saying that it promises the Z9 will bring together Nikon’s set of “groundbreaking technologies” to deliver “the best still and video performance in Nikon history“.

The Z9 embodies ultimate usability as a tool,” Nikon writes. “Offering users an unprecedented imaging experience from capture to workflow exceeding that of previous digital-SLR and mirrorless cameras.”

The rumor also stated that the camera was tested with a range of different megapixel sensors from 45-megapixels to a 60-megapixel version. Other features rumored include 20 frames per second through a blackout-free EVF (like the Sony Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 series), a 16-bit RAW option, a new user interface, and improved noise levels and better dynamic range.

Nikon Rumors claims the camera is expected to be released in the fall of 2021. Its price is rumoured to be something around $6,000 – $7,000.

Photography Fundamentals: Lens

Photography Fundamentals: Lens

Lens in Dental Intraoral and Portrait Photography

It’s time to watch a professional dental photography course from Dental Photo Master!

Photography Fundamentals: our dental photography course is dedicated to everyone who starts an adventure with Dental Photography or Photography in general.

What lenses are the best for Intraoral Photography?

These are some of the topics explored in our dental digital photography course:

  • The Lens: how is it built? Elements, types and construction
  • Focal Length: the most important parameter
  • Macro Lenses: dedicated for dental photography
  • Marking at the top of a lens: what do they mean?
  • Threads of a lens: what do they do?
  • Focus distance window: the mechanism
  • Focusing distance range selection switch: how to use in practice?
  • Shutter release button: pressing it half-way or all the way down: differences

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

Photography Fundamentals: Exposure & Aperture

Photography Fundamentals: Exposure & Aperture

Exposure in Dental Photography

It’s time to watch a professional lesson from Dental Photo Master!

Photography Fundamentals: our course is dedicated to everyone who starts an adventure with Dental Photography or Photography in general.

What is the main problem of an exposure in dental digital photography? We’re all dealing with it: photo turns out too dark or too bright. We need to strike a balance here, and our online course will  help!

These are some of the topics explored in this dental photography course:

  • Exposure: what is it?
  • Why mastering the exposure is similar to mastering riding a bike?
  • How to recognize a perfect exposure?
  • What variables influence a good exposure?

Aperture in Dental Photography

Aperture influences the exposure. Did you know that out of focus effect of some teeth on your photo can be caused by the improper use of an aperture? We know how to prevent this in dental digital photography.

These are some of the topics explored in this dental photography course:

  • What is an aperture?
  • How to control it?
  • How do we present an aperture in professional photography?

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

The Nikon D5, D850, and D500 With CFexpress Compatibility

The Nikon D5, D850, and D500 With CFexpress Compatibility

Nikons with CFexpress Compatibility

Almost two years after the original announcement from Nikon, the day has come: D5 firmware version 1.4, D850 firmware version 1.20, and D500 firmware version 1.3 are all available now and enable use of CFexpress Type B memory cards as well as XQD cards in the Nikon DSLRs.

CFexpress in dental photography: advantages!

What should you expect? Rather than a speed boost, the main advantage here is compatibility, and, for example, if you own both a D500 and a Z6 II, you can now share memory cards between them.

Though the memory cards themselves are capable of faster read and write speeds, the internals of the DSLRs would need to be designed to take advantage of an additional lane of PCIe offered in CFe.  XQD cards are also less common now and will eventually be phased out and replaced with CFe.

Photography Fundamentals: Camera – watch our online course!

The firmware also addresses other issues Nikon discovered with the three cameras: for example, the D5 shooters can now choose the band (2.4 or 5 GHz) for the host SSID when connecting to wireless networks via a WT-6 or Wt-5 wireless transmitter connected to the camera. Nikon also fixed an issue that prevented normal shutter release and caused an error to be displayed during a very specific set of circumstances.

CFexpress: What Is It?

CFexpress is a standard for removable media cards proposed by the CompactFlash Association (CFA). The standard uses PCIe 3.0 interface with 1 to 4 lanes where 1 GB/s data can be provided per lane.

Check out our Digital Workflow online training!

Profoto Pro Flashes for Android Smartphones

Profoto Pro Flashes for Android Smartphones

Profoto Pro Flashes for Android Smartphones

Profoto continues to push its support for smartphones with the launch of AirX Smart-TTL support in the Profoto Camera Android app. The new app allows you to use select Profoto lights in combination with your Android smartphone. Is this a new chapter for mobile dental photography?

Earlier this year, Profoto launched its Profoto Camera App on iOS which allowed some of its lights to work in tandem with the iPhone. While still in beta, Profoto says that just like with the iOS Profoto Camera app, the AirX technology in its strobes allows flash tube sync with Android devices via the app.

Check out our Studio Light in Dental Office online course!

AirX Smart-TTL has two creative controls:

  • Flash Contrast Effect with three preferences: natural, balanced, and dramatic. Natural will create a slight fill light effect, balanced will mix flash with ambient light, and dramatic will push the flash to be the dominant source of light in a photo
  • Flash Warmth Effect, calculated the camera’s white balance to make images look cold, neutral, or warm depending on preference

Because smartphones have limited control over how they capture an image, these settings allow Profoto to adjust its strobes automatically to how the smartphone camera is metering. Profoto has a patent pending on the AirX Smart-TTL technology that takes advantage of a smartphone’s computational photography methods and balances those with power from its lights.

The Android Profoto Camera app is available for free from the Google Play store.

Does it mean a revolution? Will smartphones replace DSLR and Mirrorless in dental photography? In our opinion it is still too soon for that, but who knows? Mobile dental photography becomes more and more advanced, as we can see!

One thing we know for sure: the Profoto Camera app is now available for any smartphone user, as it was ready for iOS since July 2020.

Profoto is a Swedish company that develops photographic flashes and other light shaping tools for professional photographers and was founded in Stockholm, 1968, by Conny Dufgran, photography equipment retailer, and Eckhard Heine, photographer and engineer.

Nikon Plans for 2021: What’s new for Dental Photographers?

Nikon Plans for 2021: What’s new for Dental Photographers?

Nikon to Release Two New DSLRs and Several F-Mount Lenses in 2021

Nikon Rumors is reporting that the company plans to release two new DSLRs in 2021 along with “several” F-mount lenses.

It looks like the company has to offer dental photographers a lot this year. After all, dental digital photography requires a good equipment!

What are the specific plans for 2021 that Nikon users will benefit?

  • Nikon is still focused on the development of DSLRs, as the company is not quite ready to give up on the F-mount.  But the majority of research and development funds are still focused on mirrorless.
  • The Z 7II started shipping in December 2020. The second shipment to dealers will be in the middle of January
  • There are two new DSLR bodies to be released in 2021.
  • DSLR bodies are still outselling the Z-mount Mirrorless bodies but they expect within 60 days that mirrorless will outsell F-mount.
  • There are 8 new Z mount lens released by 12/31/2021. The total will be 24 Z mount lenses.
  • Confirmed: Nikon to release several new F mount lenses in 2021.
  • Two new macro lenses: 60mm and 105mm.
  • The new Webcam Utility is free and is an excellent AP. Easy to use for connecting families digitally.
  • The Z mount bodies will continue to receive firmware updates and the plan is to implement significant upgrades, not just minor fixes.

We will keep you posted on any new releases perfect for dental and intraoral photography!

Check out our comparison in Dental Photography Course: DSLR vs Mirrorless!

 

 

 

How to Keep Your Camera and Lens Clean?

How to Keep Your Camera and Lens Clean?

How to Keep Your Camera and Lens Clean?

Have you ever wondered what causes those mysterious spots that appear in your photos? For photographers, particularly those who use interchangeable lens cameras, this is a common problem. But there’s a way to solve it.

These mysterious spots are caused by dust or dirt on your sensor, which is completely normal and virtually unavoidable. To combat this problem, most camera makers have included a sensor cleaning function in newer camera models. However, sometimes this handy little feature just isn’t enough, which is why cleaning the camera sensor is a chore that every photographer has to deal with every so often.

What is Sensor Dust?

The term “sensor dust” is used to describe the particles or elements that enter a camera and stick to its sensor. This usually happens when the camera user exposes the sensor by removing the body cap or switching lenses. Camera sensors are dust magnets, prone to dust.  If you’re not careful enough, you’ll inevitably have to clean your camera’s sensor quite often.

How Does Dust Get into Camera Sensor in Mirrorless and DSLR cameras?

It’s rather easy to sustain sensor dust on a mirrorless camera, such as Sony Alpha A7 III, Nikon Z7, or Canon EOS R as the sensor becomes exposed during any lens changes. With regular DSLR cameras, the mirror provides some form of protection, though you can still end up getting dust on the sensor. However, one of the main causes of dust is actually the camera itself, which explains why photographers who rarely change their lenses still struggle with dust getting on the sensor.

Apart from getting dust and other dirt from the surrounding environment blown onto your sensor during lens changes, there are two other significant ways that dust may be generated:

  1. Every time that you take a photo, the shutter fires. When it does, the friction between the components of the shutter can create dust.
  2. The other way that dust is generated is during the moments that you attach or remove the plastic body cap. When you do so, friction between the metal mounts and the plastic cap may generate dust. This is also true for when you change your lens.

Let’s summarise some facts:

  • Dirty optics and dirty sensors can and will affect your image quality.
  • There are correct methods and tools to clean lens and filter optics.
  • There are incorrect methods and tools to clean lens and filter optics.
  • There’s a great deal of information available on the topic of lens cleaning—some of it conflicting.

So, let’s try to keep things simple, and find the best and safest way to get your lenses and sensors clean so that you can spend more time making photographs, and less time on cleaning.

So what will you learn while watching our lesson?

  • What equipment should you use to clean your camera and lens successfully?
  • A blower and a loupe are necessary?
  • Cleaning by yourself or leaving it to professionals?
  • Cleaning your flash and lens: steps
  • How to use a liquid and a cloth while cleaning the surface of your lens?
  • Cleaning your camera: steps
  • Cleaning your sensor: how to take care of this fragile part?

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro: Available in Pentax K and Stepless on Canon EF

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro: Available in Pentax K and Stepless on Canon EF

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro with New Mounts

Venus Optics has announced that the 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro lens, originally announced in 2018, is now available for Canon EF with a stepless aperture ring and finally on Pentax K.
The news comes months after giving the lens the Nikon Z and Canon RF’s mounts.

This announcement makes for two different versions of the optic available for Canon EF.

Laowa says that the 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO in Pentax-K mount is assembled with the automatic aperture coupling lever, which allows aperture control via the body of the camera. You can either use the manual aperture ring or park the focusing ring at the “A” symbol and adjust the aperture via the camera. Exif data would be stored in the metadata as well.

Venus Optics had previously launched an EF version of the lens with automatic aperture control via the camera, but this iteration brings a stepless aperture ring for users. “Stepless aperture control is one of the most advantageous and essential features for videography. It allows a smooth transition between each aperture level,” Venus writes in the press release.

New! Studio Light in Dental Office Lessons!

The Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro is available for $449 in some iteration on seven mounts.

Sample images:

 

Nikon Z6 II Available Now!

Nikon Z6 II Available Now!

Nikon Z6 II: Where to buy it?

Nikon has confirmed that stocks of the new camera have arrived and that it is ready for despatch! This means you can purchase your brand new Nikon now.  Nikon USA informed customers that the Nikon Z6 II will be shipping, as well as Amazon in UK.

And if you haven’t place your order yet, maybe it’s time to do so now: the Z6 II is one of the bodies on offer in the early Nikon Black Friday deals in the US, where the Nikon Z6 II and FTZ adapter are already reduced by $200.

And what is the Z6 II? Basically, the new cameras are very similar to the old ones. Apart from some important features like dual card slots, 4K/60p video capture, and improved autofocus performance, we get the same product as two years ago. But it doesn’t mean it’s wrong. This results in a number of performance improvements, notably in its continuous shooting speed. The Z6 II can shoot up to 14fps (up from 12fps), which it can maintain for 124 12-bit RAW files or 200 JPEGs.

Check out our new online lessons: Studio Light in Dental Office!

There is no update on when the Nikon Z7 II will start shipping, but stay tuned!

Professional Studio in Your Dental Office: It’s Easier Than You Think!

Professional Studio in Your Dental Office: It’s Easier Than You Think!

Studio Light in Dental Office: New Online Training

Professional portrait in your dental office? Yes, it’s possible and achievable and Dental Photo Master is here to help you. Our new course consists of 12 episodes to show you the best equipment, set-ups and possibilities you should use to become a dental portrait master.

And there is a bonus, too: register today and watch 2 episodes for free!

And what will you find in our guide? Here are the main topics of each lesson:

  • Episode 1 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Introduction
  • Episode 2 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Why do we need different light sources?
  • Episode 3 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Speedlight Commander
  • Episode 4 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Light Stands
  • Episode 5 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Speedlight Light Modifiers
  • Episode 6 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Power Supplies and Batteries
  • Episode 7 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Rail System, Part 1
  • Episode 8 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Rail System, Part 2
  • Episode 9 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Practical Demonstration Portrait Photography
  • Episode 10 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Intraoral Shots in Practice
  • Episode 11 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Different Source of Light Results Compared
  • Episode 12 – Studio Light in Dental Office: Summary

Being a professional dental photographer doesn’t mean you need a professional studio. It means you need a professional online course, your dental office and some equipment. Use our professional course, and the rest will be a piece of cake!

Remember: only registering today gives you a free access to first 2 lessons!

New Oval-Shaped Flash With Built-In Modeling Light from Yongnuo

New Oval-Shaped Flash With Built-In Modeling Light from Yongnuo

Yongnuo YN650EX-RF, the Oval-Shaped Flash

Yongnuo has announced a new flash – the YN650EX-RF –  that includes a built-in ring of LED lights around the main flash unit that can act as a modeling lamp. It is also in an unusual ovular shape.

Yongnuo says that the YN650EX-RF is equipped with 24 LED lamp “beads” that it says will add “charming eye light” to photos. The LEDs are also dimmable at 100 different levels, which makes it more than just a simple modeling light but one that is specifically designed to create images on its own. In addition to the LEDs, the flash itself has an integrated 2.4G radio transceiver that is fully compatible with Yongnuo’s 16-channel RF radio system and includes TTL, Manual, Multi, or multi-group mixed mode flash options.

Its price is yet to be announced.

 The YN650EX-RF Specifications:

  • GN 60 (Iso-100, at 200mm zoom)
  • Oval-shaped flash head
  • 28–105mm zoom
  • 24 LEDs, brightness adjustable from 1–100%
  • 2-second recycle time with fresh AA batteries. (Faster with external battery pack)
  • Canon E-TTL and high-speed sync up to 1/8000 second
  • Built-in Yongnuo 2.4GHz RF transceiver, with 16 channels and wireless TTL
  • Supports Canon EX optical transmission system (commander and remote)

Looking for an honest online training? Check out our lessons about flashes in dental photography!

 

 

 

 

Price Drop Alert: Nikon D850 $500 Cheaper!

Price Drop Alert: Nikon D850 $500 Cheaper!

Nikon D850: New Price!

The Nikon D850 just received a $500 price cut: its price is just $2,500! This makes it more affordable than it’s ever been since it was released in 2017. This is an incredible offer for the full-frame DSLRs lovers.

We bet you’re happy now, as the D850 is one of the most popular cameras in dental photography. If you’ve been thinking about purchasing it – it looks like now is the best time!

The price drop, originally spotted by Nikon Rumors. If you don’t need szybkiego video autofocus, and you’ve not been wooed by the latest and greatest mirrorless options, this is a deal you’ll want to look at very closely.

According to NR, the price cut comes a sale before the new release, as there is a follow-up to the D850 coming in “early 2021.” That camera could be one of Nikon’s last full-frame DSLRs before shifting all of its attention to the mirrorless Z-series.

And if you’re more a mirrorless person and you’re thinking about the new Z5, you can try it – for free!

 

 

 

You can Try the Full-Frame Nikon Z5 for 30 Days!

You can Try the Full-Frame Nikon Z5 for 30 Days!

Nikon Z5 Trial: You Can Try It For Free!

If you’re thinking about purchasing the Nikon Z 5 there’s a good idea for you! Nikon has reintroduced its Yellow Program, which allows US-based consumers to order the Z5 and, if not satisfied before a month is out, return the camera for their money back.

As Nikon announces:

We’re so sure you’ll be thrilled with the performance you’ll get with your new full frame mirrorless Z 5 camera that we’ll let you try one at home for 30 days. If you aren’t totally impressed with the Z 5 (we’d be surprised), send it back to us for a full refund.

The return offer even includes a prepaid shipping label, so this trial is 100% free.

If you do decide to check the Nikon Yellow Program, note that your Z 5 will be inspected if returned (it must be sent back in “like-new condition”). Also note that all Nikon Yellow customers will need to pay in advance.

You can choose from these three options, and you can also grab the FTZ adapter for a few extra dollars.

  • The Nikon Z 5 body only (for $1399.95 USD)
  • The Nikon Z 5 with a 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens (for $2,199.95 USD)
  • The Nikon Z 5 with a 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens (for $1699.95 USD)

Make a decision soon: the offer ends on November 30th.

Do you like this idea? We think it’s a really honest way to test a camera – which is not the smallest expense, let’s face it. Any producers dare to follow Nikon?

Want to know more about the Z5? Check out our review!

 

 

Canon Announces EOS M50 Mark II: Details

Canon Announces EOS M50 Mark II: Details

Canon EOS M50 Mark II Specs & Price

We’ve got same releases these days! Nikons announces Z6 II and Z7 II and Canon comes with its successor to the “#1 selling mirrorless camera in the United States,” the EOS M50 Mark II mirrorless camera.

What’s new? Well, the M50 Mark II shares the same 24MP APS-C sensor with its predecessor, and the same Digic 8 image processor. But there are some improvements, too. The Dual Pixel autofocus system has been updated to allow eye tracking in both stills and video. You can also shoot a vertical video and stream it to YouTube Live over a smartphone internet connection.

According to Canon, the EOS M50 Mark II includes “many of the beloved features of its predecessor” while adding a few more to enhance its usability.

 

 

What do you think of EOS M50 Mark II’s main features?

  • Improved autofocus including eye autofocus in video
  • Vertical video shooting support
  • LCD adds tap video record button and movie self-timer for better vlogging experience
  • High-quality webcam capability, when used with compatible services, with the free EOS Webcam Utility software or Clean HDMI output
  • Wireless YouTube Live streaming capability
  • The ability to tap the screen to autofocus on your subject while looking through the EVF

We’re pretty sure it can be the ne favourite camera among dental photography beginners. The only thing missing is the custom shooting mode: it allows you to register current camera settings, such as the shooting mode, menu functions, and Custom Function settings, as Custom shooting modes under the Mode Dial’s <C1> and <C2> positions. This would be useful.

The EOS M50 Mark II will be available in late November 2020 for $599 USD body-only, $699 USD as a kit with the 15-45mm F3.5-6.3, and $929 USD as a kit with the 15-45mm and 55-200mm F4.5-6.3 lenses.

If you want to know more about cameras in dental photography, check out our lesson!

Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II Unveiled!

Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II Unveiled!

Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II details

Nikon has officially unveiled the new and improved Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z7 II full-frame mirrorless cameras! And, basically, the new cameras are very similar to the old ones. Apart from some important features like dual card slots, 4K/60p video capture, and improved autofocus performance, we get the same product as two years ago. But it doesn’t mean it’s wrong.

Compare Nikon Z6, and Nikon Z7 with Nikon Z6II, and Nikon Z7II versions side-by-side and you might not see a difference:

 

Nikon has said before that the most important thing in its newest products is taking users’ opinions under consideration. Therefore, the new “Zs” are improved versions of their older brothers, and this seems fine and fair. You can see it yourself: the new bodies are almost identical to the older ones, apart from a slightly changed grip. No reason to cry here!

Z7II_24-70_4_fronttop Z6II_NikonZ6II&Z7II_front34l NikonZ6II&Z7IIslots NikonZ6II&Z7II5

But if you’re looking for novelties, both cameras have been updated with Dual EXPEED 6 image processors, which enables to capture 4K/60p video (coming to the Z6 II via firmware in February 2021), ups the continuous shooting speed to 14fps (Z6 II) and 10fps (Z7 II), increases the size of the buffer, and promises improved autofocus performance, including expanded eye-detect and animal-detect (which now work in Wide-Area AF (L)) and better low-light autofocus.

Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II Price

The Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z7 II are both expected to start shipping before the end of the year. The Z6 II will be available in November for $2,000 body-only or $2,600 in a kit with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens; while the Z7 II will be available one month later, in December, for $3,000 body-only or $3,600 in a kit with the aforementioned 24-70. The MB-N11 battery grip will be available in November for $400.

Nikon is consistent with its Z series: any new version looks almost the same and that makes working with it comfortable for us, used to the Z’s interface users. And we really do like the Nikon’s strategy based on creating low-budget models with the best available quality.

And have you already seen our online lesson in studio photography?

Nikon Z9 Specs Leaked And We’re Impressed!

Nikon Z9 Specs Leaked And We’re Impressed!

Nikon Z9 First Specs

The first set of rumored specs of the Nikon Z9 has leaked! The flagship-level full-frame mirrorless camera will allegedly feature a 45MP sensor, 20fps continuous shooting, 8K video capability and more.

The specs were published by Nikon Rumors. The so-called – we’re still not sure whether this name will stay –  “Nikon Z9” will be something of a mix of a Nikon D6 style body (possibly with a built-in grip), Canon EOS R5-level imaging capabilities, and Sony a9II-level autofocus.

The release of the Z9 will be in Fall 2021 and its price is rumoured to be something around $6,000 – $7,000.

But there are more details already. The camera will reportedly feature a 46MP sensor,  a brand new EXPEED processor that are capable of shooting up to 20fps at full speed and capturing 8K/30p video, an improved AF with object detection, a high-res blackout-free EVF, dual XQD/CFExpress card slots, Gigabit LAN, and a “new user interface,” although there are no further details shared on that last point.

One year before the release we can’t be sure of anything and things may change, of course. But with these specs it’s clear that Nikon wants to create an epic camera for professionals.

Disappointingly, though, the rumored ISO range is no better than that of the Nikon Z7. While ISO64-25,600, expandable to 51,200-102,400, is still very capable, it’s below par for a professional camera primarily used by working sports, wildlife and news photographers. The D6, for example, has a sensitivity range of ISO100-102,400, famously expandable to ISO3.28 million.

No doubt Nikon is aiming for prototypes of the Z9 to be ready for testing at the 2021 Olympics (as Canon is planning for the rumored Canon EOS R1), with availability by the end of 2021. Here are the full leaked specs, courtesy of Nikon Rumors:

NIKON Z9 Specs

  • to be expected in the fall of 2021
    • No official plans for Nikon Z8
    • Prototype Z9 cameras may be tested at the Tokyo Olympics next year
    • A D6 body combined with Canon EOS R5 imaging, α9II AF, and blackout-free EVF
    • 46MP sensor
    • 20 fps
    • 8k30p, 4k120/60/30p
    • New EXPEED processor designed for 8k
    • Improved AF (Object detection AF)
    • Two XQD/CFX type B memory card slots
    • ISO 64 – 25,600, Hi1, Hi2
    • High resolution, blackout-free EVF
    • New user interface (no second LCD screen on the back like he D6)
    • New battery: Nikon EN-EL18x
    • Gbit LAN, USB-C, WiFi, GPS
    • Price: $6,000 – $7,000

And what do you think about the Z6II and Z7II that are to arrive in October?!

The Olympus brand name will continue! But what about the Micro Four Thirds?

The Olympus brand name will continue! But what about the Micro Four Thirds?

What’s next for Olympus?

The Olympus brand name will continue following the sale to new owner Japan Industrial Partners (JIP), the manufacturer has confirmed. But the real question is: what is the future of the Micro Four Thirds format?

The company asked itself directly on its website: “What is the future of Micro Four Thirds?” And the answer it chose to give was a bit disappointing, “We are not able to comment on future product development at this time.”

It has always been taken as red that the company was committed to Micro Four Thirds. Will this be the next end of an era?

 

It’s Official: The Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II are Coming in October!

It’s Official: The Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II are Coming in October!

Z6 II and Z7 II Release Date

Nikon has officially confirmed the existence of the long-rumored full-frame mirrorless Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II in a countdown page on its website. The official release time is October 14th at 12:00am ET! Nikon calls this event “The Next Chapter”.

The first rumors of a Nikon “Z6s and Z7s” popped up back in summer, since the company registered new cameras.

What will they be? According to their latest report, these will be “incremental updates” with the same image sensors, same overall body shape, and the same resolution EVFs as the current Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7.

As far as we know today, the Z6 II and Z7 II will have:

  • Dual Card Slots (one CFexpress and one SD)
  • Improved AF for face, eye and animal detection
  • Dual EXPEED processors
  • A faster max frame rate
  • A larger buffer
  • 4K/60p video capability
  • The ability to take a proper battery grip with buttons for vertical shooting

We will keep the lights on and inform you about every new detail of the new Z6 and Z7 models.

Accessories for Dental Photography: Retractors

Accessories for Dental Photography: Retractors

Accessories for Dental Photography: Retractors

Time to deal with dental photography accessories, our everyday helpers. First up: retractors!

You’re not sure if you’re interested? These are some of the topics explored  in this lesson:

  • Why do retractors help dental photographers?
  • How does a self-retractor work?
  • Sizes and construction of the retractors
  • Comparing plastic and metal retractors
  • Comparing self-retracting and single-sided retractors
  • How do we place a single-sided retractor and should we use it?
  • Hints & Tips in using retractors: how many should we have in our office and why the retractor should be wet?

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

90 MP Canon EOS RS is Ready?

90 MP Canon EOS RS is Ready?

Canon EOS RS: The Highest Resolution Ever

The highest resolution Canon cameras ever released are still the 5Ds and 5DsR DSLRs, but that may change pretty soon now. The Canon EOS RS – the manufacturer’s long rumored, highly anticipated and high resolution member of the growing R system family – is making headlines again. According to reports, the “finished product” is now being field tested – and it possesses a sensor in the 90MP region.

As we can read in Canon Rumors, “a small group of photographers have the high-megapixel body in their hands as it’s going through the first phase of testing as a finished product.” This same source tells CR that the camera is “around 90MP”.

The higher resolution and larger EVF would be nods towards the EOS RS’ likely applications for product and other studio work – which means it can be perfect for us, dental photographers.

And as we’re waiting for more leaks, we can focus on the EOS R6. Have you seen it already?

Color Transfer: Tools & Accessories

Color Transfer: Tools & Accessories

Color Transfer in Dental Photography

Matching the color by a dental technician in the mouth of the patient is not often possible. How can we measure this color and transfer it to the lab successfully?

Luckily, we’ve prepared our online training!

These are some of the topics explored  in this lesson:

  • What camera accessories are necessary for well done color transfer?
  • Why a ring flash is not the best option here?
  • Shade guides: the crucial tool in adjusting the color by you and your dental technician
  • Retractors: customized and not customized. What is the difference?
  • Contrastors: what type should we use to achieve transparency?
  • Why should you use filters in color matching?
  • Filter for fluorescent light photography: checking different light conditions

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

The new Laowa Lens is the First World’s First 2x Ultra Macro Lens for MFT

The new Laowa Lens is the First World’s First 2x Ultra Macro Lens for MFT

MFT System Fans, We Have Good News!

Venus Optics has now officially announced their new Laowa 50mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO lens designed specifically for the Micro Four Thirds system. And, as says the manufacturer, this is the first lens in the MFT system with the 2:1 zoom. Now, is it one good reason to stay in the smaller matrix’ world?

We know that a lot of us, dental photographers, are fans of the MFT system and we totally understand it. This Laowa lens with record 2x magnification ratio and focal length can be used as a portrait lens as well, as it can focus to infinity.

Laowa 2x Macro Lens for MFT: Specs

Construction consists of 14 elements isn 10 groups, with three consisting of extra low dispersion glass. Aperture is controlled by the camera body with all lens data being recorded as EXIF information. An apochromatic optical design apparently eliminates both lateral chromatic aberration and longitudinal CA.

It is also compact, weighing in at 8.5oz (240g) and a length of 3.1” 979mm). Focus is internal so there is no change in length during operation.

Remember: this is a manual-focus lens, which is usually more useful in dental photography. And, as we can read in various opinions, the working distance is about 44.45mm from the tip of the lens.

Pros

  • Wide focusing range from 2x to infinity
  • Small size and lightweight
  • Decent working distance
  • Great image quality
  • Aperture coupling

Cons

  • No autofocus
  • Lower resolution compared to full-frame setups

 

The lens is priced at US$399 excluding taxes with shipping starting at the end of August.

 

What is the Micro Four Thirds System?

The size of the sensor is significantly smaller than for most DSLRs. This implies that lenses, especially telephoto lenses, can also be smaller. The crop factor here is around 2x, so a 300mm telephoto lens becomes an ultra 600mm.

This four-thirds system is used exclusively by Olympus and Panasonic, with a sensor size of 17.3 mm x 13 mm. The sensor’s area is about 30–40% smaller than APS-C sensors used in most other DSLRs.
The name comes from the sensors’ aspect ratio of 4:3, where APS-C would be 3:2. They chose this number as it better reflects the printing size of 8×10 better than the 3:2 ratio does.

 

Professional Studio Photography: Backgrounds

Professional Studio Photography: Backgrounds

How To Choose a Background?

Dr Kris Chmielewski has prepared a special lesson for you. Professional Studio Photography is a very wide topic, and we want to explore it thouroghly!

These are some of the topics explored by Kris in this lesson:

  • Types of backgrounds used in Studio Photography
  • Cyclorama – what is it? Why it works with light in a special way?
  • Who should use Cyclorama and when?
  • Dental Photography in Studio

Collapsible Backgrounds in Studio Photography

And it’s time to cut to the chase in this next lesson.

Kris will tell you more about collapsible backgrounds. You’re not sure if you’re interested? These are some of the topics explored by Kris in this lesson:

  • Who should and can use collapsible backgrounds and why?
  • What are the sizes and colours of collapsible backgrounds?
  • Which colours of collapsible backgrounds are best for dental photography and in what cases?
  • How to hang collapsible background?

We’re pretty sure you would like to watch it now and don’t hesitate any longer!

Lab Work Photography – with Carlos Ayala Paz

Lab Work Photography – with Carlos Ayala Paz

In Dental Photo Master we believe that the best quality comes from the best knowledge. That is why we are happy to invite worldwide known experts! One of them is Carlos Ayala Paz, who doesn’t even need to be introduced to our community.

Carlos Ayala Paz on Lab Photography

In this lesson, Carlos has shared his knowledge about Lab Photography of small dental objects like e.g. crowns. Macro photography has no secrets to Carlos!

If you’re still not sure if this lesson can give you benefits, let us tell you a little bit about our video.

Carlos Ayala shows his ways to achieve the best possible light in a darkroom – as he says, ambient light is not a good idea when it comes to macro. He also has his opinion on the distance from the object and the type of a tripod that should be used.

But the key factor in taking perfect macro photography is managing the shadows. They appear after moving your flash even for a millimeter or if you replace your standard, big flash with a little LED one. Once the great picture is done, with nice colours and good background, it’s time to play with it. How about showing some transparency or focusing on the texture of the teeth? Carlos knows really good tricks to make it happen.

The cheapest, but still professional way to diffuse the light

And if we are talking about the tricks, this one you will love. Illuminating the scene, positioning flashes – these are the game changers and Carlos knows how to use them. But obtaining some soft, diffused light with a sheet of paper is basically it. There are of course some loopholes and Carlos will show you how to avoid them, especially when it comes to the power of your flashes.

And most importantly, Carlos will leave you with specific information about the best brands and models of flashes he uses. You’ll be surprised with their price: in a good way, we mean.

If this doesn’t encourage you to watch this lesson, we guess you already know it all. But if Lab Photography is one of the parts of your dental photography practice, you shouldn’t skip our video!

 

 

Nikon Registers New Camera. Is it the Z7s?

Nikon Registers New Camera. Is it the Z7s?

Are These Nikon Z7s Specs?

Nikon has just registered a new camera overseas that could be the Nikon Z7S or Nikon Z6S, the refreshed versions of the existing Z7 and Z6 cameras. The new camera has some upgrades, including dual memory card slots, dual processors and 4K 60p video.

Rumors about the Nikon Z7S and Nikon Z6S are dating back to early July, when we first learned about the Nikon Z5.

And now, just a few days ago, the Japanese super sleuth Nokishita spotted an FCC certification for an unreleased Nikon camera with the product number N1932.

Check out how does the Z7 work in Dental Photography here!

The tweet says: “Nikon’s unpublished digital camera “N1932” has passed FCC certification. Equipped with Wi-Fi (11a/b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth 4.2. If the orientation of the antenna is the same as Z7 etc., the width of the main body is around 140.6 mm, the height is 68.5 mm or more (EVF part etc. are not included), the thickness is 36.6 mm or more (grip part and lens part etc. are included).

Those dimensions are similar to those of the Z6 and Z7. Does it mean that we will be getting a Z7s pretty soon? Time will tell.

Is Canon 5D DSLR Line Over?

Is Canon 5D DSLR Line Over?

Canon Rumors: Is The 5D Line Dead?

This might be a difficult news for the lovers of the Canon 5D Mark IV: rumor has it that it will not have a successor. Canon has reportedly decided to discontinue its popular and pioneering 5D line of cameras.

This is shocking, especially with the recent news about preparing the Canon 5D V that was supposed to be announced by the end of 2020. But as Canon Rumors reports, the COVID-19 and its economical repercussions made Canon change its plans.

“I have been told that the EOS 5D series is going the way of the EOS 7D series,” Craig Blair of Canon Rumors writes. “The source claims that the EOS 5D Mark V development wa

s stopped ‘some time ago’ […]”.

The ‘rumor‘ word is the key in that case. The 5D series has a huge fan base and loyal photographers. Would Canon abandon them with this risky decision? We doubt that.

About Canon 5D

The original Canon 5D was announced in 2005 and was the first full-frame DSLR with a standard DSLR size. In 2008, Canon announced the Canon 5D Mark II, which made a huge splash as the first Canon EOS camera to offer video recording capabilities.

After years of ignoring full-frame mirrorless cameras, Canon finally unveiled the EOS R in 2018. Since then, it has turned most of its attention toward winning the mirrorless market — Canon focused all of its lens efforts on RF instead of EF in 2019, and the company even said in January 2020 that it wa

s done developing new EF lenses unless the market demanded more.

In just 15 years and 4 generations, the 5D line has already made a huge mark on the history and evolution of camera. Will this be it?

Check out our online lessons about cameras!

Postproduction: How to Remove or Improve the Black Background

Postproduction: How to Remove or Improve the Black Background

New series Essence Collection: How to Remove or Improve the Black Background

Clear, sharp black background is one of the elements of a professional dental photo. But instead of removing any dust one by one, there is an easier and quicker way to obtain it. Dr Kris Chmielewski will show you how!

These are some of the topics explored by Kris:

  • How to use the auto exposure to see the dust
  • Why Photoshop is an essential tool in dental photography
  • Why duplicating the layers can be useful
  • Why using the quick selection tool in Photoshop is a good idea
  • Why adding feather is important
  • How to create and edit a new layer
  • How to merge the layers with a shortcut

Our new Essence Collection gives you seven lessons. Each of them is focused on an important step of postproduction, like importing your photos, using the presets, preparing photos for media publication or presentation. This way we want to give you a full, professional step-by-step guide to Postproduction in Dental Photography. 

If you want to see it all and become a Postproduction ninja, don’t hesitate any longer to visit our online training Postproduction Essence Collection.

We’re still preparing new lessons. Stay tuned!

It’s Official: Olympus Exits the Camera Business

It’s Official: Olympus Exits the Camera Business

Goodbye, Olympus!

Olympus is exiting the camera business after an 84-year run! This means we can finally confirm the ongoing rumors and say ‘goodbye’ to one of the world’s most recognizable brands in the industry.

As we can read in th press release, Olympus has signed a memorandum of understanding to sell its camera division to Japan Industrial Partners (JIP), the same investment firm that acquired Sony’s VAIO PC business back in 2014.

Olympus and JIP are aiming to sign a legally binding deal by September 30th.

After three years of losses Olympus says it needs a more ‘compact, efficient and agile’ corporate structure and claims having a new company run the camera business is the only way to make it survive and grow.

We must wait to see if this happens.

Postproduction: How to Edit Your Photos and Prepare Them to Export?

Postproduction: How to Edit Your Photos and Prepare Them to Export?

New series Essence Collection: How to Edit Your Photos and Prepare Them to Export?

Our expert, dentist Kris Chmielewski, has prepared a quick course about editing, cleaning and preparing your photos to export.

Make your photographs spotless and professional!

These are some of the topics explored by Kris:

  • How to improve the exposure of your photo?
  • Why choosing the auto exposure settings is not a good idea?
  • Removing dust and spots from the photo
  • How to copy pixels to remove spots?
  • How to remove larger elements in segments?
  • The best and quick way to crop your photo

Our new Essence Collection gives you seven lessons. Each of them is focused on an important step of postproduction, like importing your photos, using the presets, preparing photos for media publication or presentation. This way we want to give you a full, professional step-by-step guide to Postproduction in Dental Photography. 

If you want to see it all and become a Postproduction ninja, don’t hesitate any longer to visit our online training Postproduction Essence Collection.

We’re still preparing new lessons. Stay tuned!

Canon EOS R5 Price: Prepare Yourself Before You Read It!

Canon EOS R5 Price: Prepare Yourself Before You Read It!

We hoped for a nice surprise, but it seems like Canon has other plans.

The EOS R5, also known as a highly anticipated 2020 premiere, won’t be cheap. An Australian retailer has listed the as-yet-unreleased Canon EOS R5 on its online storefront. We’re not sure if it was accidental or a deliberate action to make some buzz, but the price is… well, see it yourself.

The page on the Camera Warehouse website claims Canon’s upcoming mirrorless marvel will cost an eye-watering AU$10,499. That translates to about $6,800/£5,550.

The price is not official yet, but taking all the camera’s features into consideration, there might be a grain of truth to this.

Either way, we’re still waiting for an equipment that looks like one of the best full-frame mirrorless cameras ever!

Free Software from Canon to Use Your Camera as a Webcam!

Free Software from Canon to Use Your Camera as a Webcam!

Canon makes it easier: you don’t need other software or the Cam Link to use your Canon camera as a webcam. This new, free software will take care of it!

This is a great move in these difficult, pandemic times.  Thanks to the EOS Webcam Utility you don’t need to buy a new webcam to improve the quality of your videoconferences. The only thing to do is to download the software from Canon’s website, plug your camera into your computer with a USB and set the exposure parameters.

At the moment the app is compatible with 25 cameras with wireless connectivity

  • EOS-1D X Mark II
  • EOS-1D X Mark III
  • EOS 5D Mark IV
  • EOS 5DS
  • EOS 5DS R
  • EOS 6D Mark II
  • EOS 7D Mark II
  • EOS 77D
  • EOS 80D
  • EOS 90D
  • EOS Rebel SL2
  • EOS Rebel SL3
  • EOS Rebel T6
  • EOS Rebel T6i
  • EOS Rebel T7
  • EOS Rebel T7i
  • EOS Rebel T100
  • EOS M6 Mark II
  • EOS M50
  • EOS M200
  • EOS R
  • EOS RP
  • PowerShot G5X Mark II
  • PowerShot G7X Mark III
  • PowerShot SX70 HS

How to Get the EOS Webcam Utility?

The software is for course free, but available only for Windows 10 – at least now. One must remember it is still the BETA version, so minor mistakes will appear; on the other hand, this gives the app bigger opportunities to develop.

More info: usa.canon.com

2 Months of Free Creative Cloud from Adobe: Is It True?

2 Months of Free Creative Cloud from Adobe: Is It True?

Among all the news regarding changes due to the Coronavirus pandemic, you may also see the one about a new, free option for Adobe Creavite Cloud users. Is it true?

As you may read in various places, Adobe quickly responds to widespread school closures amid coronavirus pandemic by offering students free access to its Creative Cloud.

The company hasn’t announced this promotion anywhere, and this seems to be a problem.

It is rumoured that the Adobe’s goal is to keep the subscribers from leaving the company’s serivces.

Unfortunately, it is not clear who is able to benefit from this special offer. Adobe’s algorithm is a secret and the only way to check it is to go through the steps below.

How to get 2 months of Free Creative Cloud from Adobe?

1. Log in to your Adobe Creative Cloud Account by clicking here
2. Start to “cancel” your creative cloud plan. Don’t worry though, you’re not actually going to cancel


  • Click the Cancel Plan link on your account overview page
  • Start making your way through the cancellation steps. Once you’ve clicked Cancel, you’ll have to go through some verification steps and questions to confirm that you really want to cancel. Don’t worry, these won’t actually cancel your account on you. cancellation.
    Confirm your reasons for wanting to cancel to get to the next step
  • Next you’ll be presented with an offer, which you definitely want to accept! Adobe, like any business, never wants to see you go, so on this step you _should_ be shown the offer shown below to get the next 2 months of your subscription for free! Simply click the Accept Offer link. of your plan for free. Click “Accept Offer”.

  • Don’t worry, there’s another step where you’ll be presented the offer for 2 months free!
    Once you’re shown the offers screen, select the Accept Offer to get the next 2 months credited on your account.
  • And that’s it! You’ve just saved yourself a little bit of financial stress in these trying times and landed 2 months of your Creative Cloud Subscription for free thanks to Adobe! The following screen should now show you that you’ve been given a free credit for the next 60 days (showing your savings).
  • Let us know if you were able to launch the free plan.

    Dental Photo Master with Special Offer!

    We’ve prepared a special offer for you! Now you can subscribe and watch our lessons with a special price!

Canon Announces Delays and Closures Due to The Coronavirus

Canon Announces Delays and Closures Due to The Coronavirus

Canon EOS R5 delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic

Canon Rumors reports that Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6 are currently “both running at less than 1/4 of Canon’s manufacturing capacity.”  Due to the Coronavirus Canon closed down some of its factories, so the previously planned production is unreachable.

The camera was supposed to make its public debut at this year’s The Photography Show in Birmingham. The show however has been postponed for September, so this is not possible.

What are the options for Canon? It is rumoured that the company takes two of them under consideration. The first is to launch the cameras as planned in June and July, but in limited quantities. Another option is to postpone the launch until fall, most likely October 2020, and release both cameras in sufficient quantity to meet the customers’ demand.

But this is not the only problem that Canon is facing at the moment.

Canon closes repair centres in the USA

Only a few days after the Nikon’s announcement about the repair suspension, Canon follows the competitor’s steps. The official statement says about shutting down its service centres in New Jersey, California, Illinois and Hawaii “until further notice.”

“Due to the ‘stay at home’ directives from authorities in California, New Jersey, Illinois, and Hawaii, as well as local ‘Shelter in Place’ orders, our Canon service facilities in those states are temporarily closed until further notice,” reads the announcement. “Products needing repair can be directed to our Factory Service Center in Newport News, Virginia.”

Walk-in service is not available, even at the Virginia location, so if you need to set up a repair, you should do so online using the button “Request Product Repair”.

“Again, we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state authorities,” says Canon. “The health and well-being of our customers, clients, and employees remain our top priority during this difficult time.”

The Coronavirus has also influenced our activity. Check out how Dental Photo Maser is coping with the COVID-19 pandemic.

3 Months of the Lightroom Alternative for Free Due to The Coronavirus Pandemic

3 Months of the Lightroom Alternative for Free Due to The Coronavirus Pandemic

3 months of free access to Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher are available now. This tool is a new opportunity and alternative to the well known, Adobe Lightroom.

After the 90-day free trial, you can buy the access to this new postproduction tool with a special discount.

“The introduction of the 90-day free trial and deeply discounted pricing is done in the hope that this will make life a little easier for people who rely on creative software to make a living, but maybe stuck at home without their usual tools,” writes Serif. “Or for students who might not have access to their Affinity apps on their personal devices.”

Serif offers three major initiatives in the hopes of helping students and freelancers cope with the problems presented during the COVID-19 pandemic:

  • A new 90-day free trial of the Mac and Windows versions of the whole Affinity suite
  • A 50% discount for those who would rather buy and keep the apps on Mac, Windows PC, and iPad
  • A pledge to engage more than 100 freelance creatives for work, spending the equivalent of our annual commissioning budget in the next three months (more details of this will be announced soon).

The Affinity Photo has quickly claimed a spot as one of the Adobe substitutes in the photography industry. For those who were considering working with a non-Adobe editor, this is a great opportunity.

Dental Photo Master has also prepared a special initiative due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

 

 

Nikon USA Suspends Repair Services Due to The Coronavirus

Nikon USA Suspends Repair Services Due to The Coronavirus

The Coronavirus influences Nikon repair services

Nikon USA has suspended repairs at its service facilities and is no longer accepting equipment, due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

For those that have already sent cameras or lenses to Nikon USA for servicing or repair, it is unclear how long it will be before the suspension is lifted or when your kit may be returned to you.

Please read the official statement (shared by Nikon Rumors) from Nikon president and CEO, Bo Kajiwara:

Dear Valued Customers, Partners, and Friends,

We are all experiencing unprecedented circumstances around the world as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the virus. Nikon’s top priority is the health and safety of our customers, employees and the communities we serve.

I am proud of the dedication of our Nikon team who are working remotely, and remain focused on providing the highest level of support possible at this difficult time. We are closely monitoring the situation and following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and federal/state/local health authorities.

Nikon Inc. has taken steps to ensure the safety of its employees by instituting office closings and remote work strategies in line with state and federal government mandates. These include the temporary closure of our repair service centers to prioritize the safety of our workforce and help limit the spread of the virus.

For information about our repair service center change or to get in touch with a remote support representative, please visit: https://nikonusa.com/support

In the interim, Nikon online resources for education are available on the Nikonusa website: https://www.nikonusa.com/learnandexplore.

We encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and to support their communities during this difficult time. We look forward to overcoming this global issue with great resolve and unity.

Dental Photo Master serivces are also changed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Sigma CEO Confirms: Most New Products Exclusively for Mirrorless Cameras

Sigma CEO Confirms: Most New Products Exclusively for Mirrorless Cameras

Sigma will focus on mirrorless cameras

In a tweet published on March 10, Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki shared a bit of information that hints at what products we should most be expecting to see from Sigma in the foreseeable future.

In response to a question from a Twitter user the CEO wrote: “Most new products in the future will be the DN series designed exclusively for mirrorless cameras,” reads the machine-translated tweet. “The DG DN series for full-size mirrorless, which is frequently requested, will be the center, but we believe that we need to expand the DC DN for APS-C (+ MFT), which is currently popular.”

Sigma Corporation is – as the company describes itself –  “the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world,” producing over 50 lenses for a variety of camera systems and brands.

This is bad news for DSLR photographers but also a little confirmation of the fact that mirrorless cameras might be the future of photography.

The news comes shortly after the announcement from Canon about focusing on RF, not EF lenses.

Nikon Z6, Z7 and Z50 Firmware 3.0 Upgrade Available: Report

Nikon Z6, Z7 and Z50 Firmware 3.0 Upgrade Available: Report

Nikon takes care of the mirrorless full-frame cameras users!

After last year’s patch with Eye AF for the Z6 and Z7 bodies, the newest Firmware 3.0 update provides us with ProGrade and Lexar CFexpress (type B) cards support.

But the biggest change regarding this patch is the one about the AF mode, which was a bit defective.

What’s new? Switching the autofocus modes is much easier now, as it can be done with F1 and F2 buttons on a body or lens tube (if you’re using a compatible lens with the Z mount). This means that the focus tracking operation in AF-C mode is improved and similar to the 3D tracking we know from Nikon’s DSLRs. It can be easily toggled on and off by simply pressing the shutter-release button halfway or holding down the AF-ON button while shooting stills in AF-C mode.

Release either button and the focus point returns to its previous setting. Moreover, switching from the AF screen with Auto-Area mode to subject tracking can be assigned to an Fn button. This is a step towards personalization.

Other corrections have been made in areas like the viewfinder brightness, the iOS Bluetooth connection and the rare phenomenon with horizontal lines on some photos.

The newest upgrade can be downloaded from the official Nikon website.

Cheap Batteries for DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras from Duracell!

Cheap Batteries for DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras from Duracell!

Duracell’s Batteries: A Nice Offer for DSLR and Mirrorless!

We bet you still remember the Duracell bunny: sweet, fast and tireless. But do you know that the same bunny can be a great helper for your work in dental photography?

Just check here: there you’ll find batteries available for most major brands, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm. If you find your camera listed, then Duracell has a compatible battery for you.

And what’s important, the prices are way better than the ones you can find at the camera’s manufacturers!

Duracell claims that you’ll get the same performance as original brand batteries, and you can trust them. And if something goes wrong, the brand is offering a warranty to back up that claim.

“Whatever your power needs, it will last longer with Duracell. Duracell camera and camcorder batteries deliver equivalent performance to the manufacturers original and are supplied with a 3 year limited warranty.”

And we must say: this bunny has never let us down before!

Have you seen our new Postproduction online training already? Check it out!