I have just got back from the trade show. There were fewer exhibitors than in previous years and space was given over to displaying photographs where formerly there would have been stands. Most of the major manufacturers who usually attend turned up, although one notable absentee was Epson which has always been there previously.
From my perspective the show was useful as I got to look at at the latest Fuji cameras which might be on my shopping list once prices drop a bit. Unfortiunately, I discovered that what I really want is the X-T2 functionaility in the X-Pro2 body as I prefer the form factor. I also got my hands on the new Hasselblad X1D. In some ways it took me back to my first DSLR, a Canon 300D. The similarity? Both cameras take 2-3 seconds to turn on. That was not really OK in 2004, let alone 2017. Still, I suppose most users of the Hasselblad will not be using it in situations where quick reactions are necessary. Another interesting camera was the new Olympus E-M1 Mk II, which certainly impresses. One quirk remains, which seems consistent across the Olympus range. Despite being just about the most configurable camera on the market, it is not possible to reverse the direction of the rear control dial when it is set to adjust exposure compensation.
I also had a strange conversation with Sigma, where their representative was unaware of some the company's recent announcements. He expressed surprise when I asked about the latest SD cameras now having the capability to write Raw files in the DNG format as well as the native Sigma X3F one. Apparently that is still supposed to be a secret despite a Sigma press release last month. It leads on to a more technical question as to how it allows Raw files from the cameras to be compatible with Lightroom and Photoshop, which is not the case currently. Matey could not tell me. Not because he did not know. Oh, dear me no, it is proprietary information. Allegedly. DNG is an open standard.
Nul pointes, Sigma.
I bumped briefly into Glyn Dewis, who I know of old and is presenting at the show. We had a brief chat about buying gear, or rather not buying it. We agreed that there is a vast difference between want and need, the solution being to keep one's wallet firmly closed. Glyn is another pro who is considering a change after becoming fed up with the weight and bulk of DSLR gear. In his case, though, he seems to be eyeing some of the new wallet busting medium format cameras.
Overall, it was an enjoyable outing even if there was not quite so much there on this occasion. And, for once, I came away without having bought anything. Success!
