Our Product Showcase is a signature feature of all our convention coverage. Included in DIR’s special coverage of WPPI 2019 is our Wedding Photography Product Showcase, presenting the latest as well as noteworthy photo-imaging equipment on view at WPPI.
WPPI 2019 Wedding Photography Product Showcase
Nikon Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit
For content creators and filmmakers looking to fully utilize the full-frame Nikon Z 6’s advanced video capabilities, Nikon created a filmmaker’s kit that incorporates an array of essential video capture accessories. The kit includes: a Nikon Z 6 mirrorless camera, a Nikkor Z 24–70mm f/4 S lens, the Mount Adapter FTZ, an Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR 5″ monitor recorder, a Rode VideoMic Pro+, a MOZA Air 2 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer, an additional EN-EL15b battery and a coiled HDMI cable. It also comes with a 12-month Vimeo Pro membership and The Art of Making Music Videos Nikon School online course featuring Nikon Ambassador Chris Hershman.
With the Z 6 Filmmaker’s Kit, users can access the camera’s advanced video features, like 10-bit HDMI output and N-Log video recording. The kit provides filmmakers, vloggers and YouTubers with all the equipment needed to capture 4K footage. $3,999.95.
Sigma 105mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Sigma’s unique, ultrahigh-speed medium telephoto lens is optimized for portraiture, low-light shooting and enhanced depth-of-field control. Like the other lenses in the acclaimed Art line, it delivers an impressive combination of high resolution, high contrast, rounded natural rendition and beautiful bokeh.
Moreover, to achieve outstanding image quality, the lens incorporates three FLD (fluorite equivalent) elements, two special low dispersion (SLD) elements and one aspheric element. Its hypersonic AF motor (HSM) provides fast, decisive autofocus. In addition, a rounded 9-blade diaphragm enhances artistic bokeh. The lens also features weather-sealed construction and a special protective coating on its front surface to facilitate shooting under adverse conditions.
It’s furnished with a robust Arca-type tripod foot that’s easily removable for handheld shooting. The Sigma 105mm f/1.4 Art is available in Sony’s full-frame E mount as well as Nikon, Canon and Sigma mounts. $1,599.
Fujifilm Frontier-S DX100
For photo retailers as well as event photographers, Fujifilm’s DX100 inkjet printer offers flexibility. It combines the benefits of a dye-sub printer’s portability and ease of use with the vivid, accurate color reproduction and deep blacks of an inkjet printer. The Frontier-S DX100 produces high-quality prints from 3.5×5 up to 8×39 inches in about 45 seconds.
The compact printer allows for a wide color gamut, fine grain, smooth gradations and improved skin tones. The DX100 uses six-color Vividia inks for beautiful reproduction. With a footprint of only 2.13 feet, it can run as a stand-alone event printer or with multiple printers for minilab or kiosk applications. Max resolution is 1,440×720 dpi and it has a single-roll paper capability. Its easy operator interface requires minimal involvement and training, with simple replacement of ink cartridges, an ink waste tank and waste paper disposal. $3,495.
Olympus FL-700WR
When Olympus launched the OM-D E-M1X mirrorless camera, it also announced various optional accessories for pro photographers.
The FL-700WR ($399.99) is a wireless radiowave-shooting compatible electronic flash. During wireless shooting, it functions as a commander or flash with a built-in receiver. The portable unit delivers high intensity at a maximum guide number of 42 (ISO 100/m). Its dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (14°F) construction complements the rugged OM-D E-M1X body. Moreover, full flash intensity is possible with a 1.5-sec charging time. This permits sequential flash photography at 10 fps.
In addition, the FC-WR ($349.99) wireless radiowave flash commander and FR-WR ($229.99) wireless radiowave flash receiver control multiple flash units remotely from the camera. They are also dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (14°F). The commander can connect to three groups and an unlimited number of flash units. Users may also select which group to fire and not fire and configure the flash intensity.
Panasonic Lumix S1
Employing a 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor (35.6mm x 23.8mm), Panasonic‘s S1 is based on the Leica L mount with a large inner diameter and compact dimensions for a flange focus to realize optimum performance as a mirrorless system. Its Multipixel Luminance Generation and Intelligent Detail Processing technologies provide natural, high-res expression while suppressing moiré. The sensor provides a wide dynamic range and high sensitivities, minimizing noise even at max ISO 51,200.
Moreover, this camera supports professional videography. It records 4K 60p video with full-pixel readout in 4K 30p/25p. Its crop factor of 1.0x in 4K 30p/25p/24p means users can record in the lens’s original viewing angle. The S1 also complies with 4:2:2 10-bit 4K 30p/25p internal video recording and 4K 60p HDMI output, plus V-Log (optional software upgrade). It records video compatible with ITU-R BT.2100, and Hybrid Log Gamma is available.
Its AF system with DFD technology has a body IS (5 axis) that combines with the OIS (2-axis) in S lenses, for a 5.5-stop slower shutter speed advantage. Also, Low Light AF provides 6 EV luminance performance. Other features: a high-resolution mode that reproduces image details saved as 96MP-equivalent RAW files; HLG photo mode that also produces HSP files with compressed high-brightness signals in full resolution for playback on HLG-compliant 4K TVs; a 5,760K-dot viewfinder; a triaxial tilt monitor; a status LCD; a 400,000-cycle shutter unit; Wi-Fi/Bluetooth 4.2; splash/freeze resistance; and SD/XQD slots. $2,499.99.
Tamron 28–75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD
Introduced last fall as a Sony full-frame E-mount version for mirrorless cameras, this high-performance wide-to-moderate telephoto zoom provides a wide f/2.8 aperture over its zoom range. Striking a balance between image quality, superb bokeh, compact size and light weight, it delivers outstanding imaging performance thanks to an advanced optical design. It incorporates one eXtra-low dispersion (XLD) and one LD element, as well as three aspheric elements, including a molded glass element.
Tamron’s high-transmission BBAR (broadband antireflection) and protective fluorine coatings are also employed. Moreover, its exclusive RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping drive) AF motor delivers fast, precise, quiet AF. A rounded 9-blade diaphragm enhances artistic bokeh, and moisture-resistant construction facilitates use in adverse conditions. Built with mirrorless in mind, its minimum focusing distance of 7.5 inches (1:2.9 at 75mm) enables compelling close-ups. In addition, the E-mount version is compatible with Sony’s direct manual focus and other Sony-based functions. In Sony E mount, $799.
Canon Vixia HF G50
The HF G50 is the first Canon Vixia G-series camcorder to offer 4K 30p video recording. For wedding videographers and advanced amateur filmmakers, it employs a genuine Canon wide-angle, 20x (29.3–601mm) optical zoom lens. It records 4K UHD/30p (4:2:0 8 bit) and 1080p Full HD (4:2:2 10 bit via SDI/HDMI output) in the MP4 format. With dual SD card slots, it also offers dual and relay recording. And it records in slow and fast motion intervals from 0.4x to 1200x for creative possibilities.
The G50 utilizes oversample HD processing with information obtained from its 4K 1/2.3″ sensor and Digic DV 6 processor. It also incorporates an intelligent optical image stabilization five-axis system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF. The system provides IS via a dynamic mode, which reduces distortion even when shooting while walking. And by adopting an 8-blade circular aperture and EF lens technology, the camcorder produces natural bokeh. Other features: an ergonomic design, a 3″ touch-panel LCD; and a tilting, high-res EVF. It ships in April. $1,099.
Sirui USA SR Professional Tripods
Sirui SR professional tripods support 55+ pounds and reach heights of 80+ inches with the optional SR-66CC carbon fiber center column. They feature twist leg-lock systems that deploy with a half turn; flat top plates with a 3/8″ mounting screw; and removable top plates that convert them into video tripods with an integrated 75mm bowl. A three-position leg angle mechanism enables upright and ground-level shooting. Other features: a multifunction hook with an adjustment tool; a 1/4″ socket in the spider; a bubble level; and anti-slip leg warmers. Each photo/video tripod kit includes rubber and stainless steel spiked feet; a tool kit; a manual; a case; and six-year warranty.
SR-3203 is a three-section carbon fiber tripod with a 5.5″ minimum height and a 59″ max height. It retracts to 25.5″. Weight: 4.4 pounds. $870.99. SR-3204 is a four-section carbon fiber tripod with a 4.7″ minimum height that extends to 59″ and retracts to 21.4″. Weight: 4.4 pounds. $1,013.99. SR-3004 is an aluminum tripod with the same specs as the SR-3204, however, it weighs 5.5 pounds. $584.99.
Primera Technology’s Impressa IP60
Primera is displaying its Impressa IP60 color photo printer. Weighing 8 pounds, the pro-grade inkjet printer is built for heavy-duty use in retail photofinishing, photo booths and event venues. It can be used by photo studios, cruise ships, tourist attractions and amusement parks, etc.
The IP60 prints a 4×6 photo in 7 sec. A 2″x6″ photo strip prints in 3.5 sec. And Primera claims a 4×6, including ink and paper, has an average cost of $0.12. It prints at 1,200×4,800 dpi and works with gloss, luster, linen, repositionable adhesive paper and postcard substrates. Operators can print any length up to 24 inches without changing out supplies. Print sizes also include 6×6, 6×8 and 6×12 inches.
To load ink, operators remove the all-in-one printhead with integrated ink tanks and snap in a new one. Built in the U.S., the printer uses dye or pigment inks. Dye ink offers vibrant colors for photo booth/retail applications. Pigment inks provide more accurate renditions and archival grade for wedding and portrait photos. $899.99.
Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM
This new Sony G Master (GM) glass is a fast, medium telephoto lens for full-frame or APS-C-format E-mount mirrorless cameras. The lens helps deliver a shallow depth of field for portraiture, enhanced low-light performance and high image quality. The portrait lens employs three extra-low dispersion glass elements to control chromatic aberration as well as one XA (extreme aspheric) element that is designed to minimize spherical aberrations and increase sharpness.
In addition, Sony’s Nano AR coating reduces flare and ghosting. The G Master lens also features an 11-blade circular diaphragm to enhance its natural bokeh. Moreover, its aperture ring can be de-clicked for smooth, silent aperture switching to benefit video applications. Other features: a linear SSM (supersonic wave motor) for swift, quiet, responsive autofocus; a dedicated focus hold button; a manual aperture ring; and dust- and moisture-sealed construction. $1,799.99.
3 Legged Thing Zelda L Bracket
British tripod manufacturer 3 Legged Thing introduced its first camera-specific L bracket. The Zelda precisely fits Nikon’s Z-series mirrorless cameras. “It’s a testament to how far we have come as a company that we were contacted by Nikon in August, a few hours after the announcement of the Z-series cameras, to develop and manufacture a camera-specific L bracket,” said Danny Lenihan, 3 Legged Thing’s founder/ CEO.
Precision milled from a block of aircraft-grade magnesium alloy, Zelda fits both the Z 6 and Z 7. It allows full access to the battery door, card slot and side ports. The Arca-Swiss compatible L bracket is shaped with indents so users can easily access and tilt the camera’s LCD and lens release button.
Zelda features a 1⁄4″-20 thread on the vertical aspect, enabling the attachment of accessories. The bracket attaches to the camera using a 1⁄4″-20 stainless steel Stagsden bolt; an included locator pin fits into the camera’s base. Security screws add extra security when mounted on a tripod. The bracket’s base also integrates a 1⁄4″-20 screw thread. $99.99.
ProGrade Digital Recovery Pro
ProGrade Digital’s Recovery Pro is a professional-grade software that assists with recovery of photo and video files lost, accidentally deleted or corrupted. The software is for imaging professionals who produce still, video and cinema-grade 4K–6K, UHD or 360º file types. The software recognizes most file types produced by DSLR, mirrorless, cinema and video cameras, including those from Canon, DJI, GoPro, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic and Fujifilm. 
Key features include the ability to recover motion file formats, including: MOV, AVI, ASF, MOD, WMV and MP4. Moreover, it restores photo file formats, including: TIFF, CRW, CR2, DNG, NEF, ORF, SRF, PEF, JPEG, BMP, GIF, PNG and RAW. It can recover 90+ audio file formats, including companion audio embedded within video. The software is compatible with CFast, SDXC, microSDHC/XC and CF memory cards.
ProGrade Digital’s recovery software supports Windows 10 and higher and Mac OS X. The company is offering a free “try before you buy” evaluation copy. The full software download is $49.99 for a 12-month subscription.
Profoto A1 Air TTL
Aimed at professional photographers and sophisticated enthusiasts, Profoto’s unique high-spec studio flash features a 2.75″ round, tilting head that puts out natural-looking light with soft, gradual falloff. The override-able auto-zoom head covers focal lengths from 32–105mm, and the included wide-angle diffuser covers 14–24mm.
Other key features include: a large, high-res LCD; high-speed sync; an LED modeling light; nine-stop power range with 76Ws output; and optional wireless TTL that works with its built-in Air remote (six groups, eight channels).
The unit is powered by a Li-ion battery and includes a 100–240v AC charger. In addition, its built-in transceiver can be used with compatible monolights. The Profoto A1 kit comes with a bounce card, a dome diffuser, a flash stand for off-camera use, a USB cable, a bag and a robust shoulder strap. Nikon i-TTL and Canon E-TTL/E-TTL II, $995.
Lensbaby Sol 45
Lensbaby’s Sol 45 is true to its roots of manual, in-camera creative effects. It is a fixed f/3.5 aperture, 45mm tilt lens that creates a sharp circular area of focus surrounded by blur and smooth bokeh. To achieve this selective focus look, users identify a subject in frame; bend the lens toward it; rotate the focus ring to bring the subject into focus; and shoot.
The lens features two bokeh blades to lend more control over the in-the-moment creative experience. Situated on hinged arms that hide at the edges of the lens, the blades add subtle lines and texture to the bokeh. Moreover, the lightweight Sol’s tilt mechanism always keeps the area of focus within the frame. The lens also has a center-locking ability. Other features include a minimum focusing distance of 14 inches and 46mm filter threads. For Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, Sony E and Fujifilm X mounts, $169.95. The Sol 22 is a 22mm version for Micro Four Thirds cameras. $169.95.
