Manual focusing with the X-Pro1, focus peaking and Leica M lenses | MirrorLessons – The Best Mirrorless Camera Reviews 2013

On Monday the 23rd, Fujifilm released the firmware 3.00 for the X-Pro1 / X-E1 models. A couple of days later, they withdrew the firmware because it had been causing malfunctions in the movie mode. They restored it soon after, and the new version 3.01 works like a charm.
There are several interesting updates, not least of which is the enhanced autofocus, but the feature that interests me the most is the new focus peaking function for manual focusing. A feature seen only on the X100s and X20 so far, Fujifilm is now implementing it on the X-Pro1 and X-E1 as well. It is a really great update and others brands should take note. Fujifilm has always been generous with firmware updates and this is probably the best example.

Manual focusing with the X-Pro1, focus peaking and Leica M lenses | MirrorLessons – The Best Mirrorless Camera Reviews 2013

OneWheelDrive.Net » 2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Touring – Touring Mode and Returning Rider Therapy

The Multistrada 1200 S Touring sublimely tips into a series of corners for another strafing run of the camera.  I’ve been on the road a week, scheduling in rides as part of my recovery from a broken collarbone, and the Ducati has been a brilliant physical therapist – egging me on to push a little more with every corner.  Shockingly easy to ride for one returning to the sport, the mode selector has been ratcheted up to touring; offering a softer 150hp LOW setting, suspension set to a rider plus luggage and long distance comfortable, ABS intervention in full nanny mode, and the traction control pushed to midrange.
The Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) is a treat.  Push the bike harder through the turns and the semi-active suspension firms up under the computers ministrations, edging towards the Multistrada’s sport mode.  Turns become a more taunt, the Multistrada more responsive and tipping in more easily and lightly.  Ease off and loaf along the highways, in so much as a 150hp bike encourages you to loaf, and the suspension plushes out to soak up bumps and imperfections.

OneWheelDrive.Net » 2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Touring – Touring Mode and Returning Rider Therapy

Ideas & Images | Dave Kai Piper Photography

Fuji X-Pro mount plate 01

Ever since the early days of being a photographer I have liked having my camera on a tripod.   Shooting Landscapes or portraits I have always found that having a stable camera is just of great advantage.
Portraits:
When shooting with people, getting the camera steady and stable can give you chance to get your lighting settings sorted. Keeping a fixed position lets your model work with defined limits and know how the frame is going to look.  Shooting close up beauty or macro it is near essential to have a stable camera.  Most times, mid way though a shoot, once I have got a rhythm going, I can break loose from the tripod and crank up the creative factor.

Ideas & Images | Dave Kai Piper Photography