#medium format sensor

[notsogoodphotographer]

Posting about another lens that i have adapted! Today’s post is about the Tamron 45mm f1.8.

Where do i even start, this is a fantastic lens that feels like it was made for the GFX system. This lens completely covers the sensor with little to no vignette. The out of focus bits are so soft and pleasant, and the colors this lens renders are beautiful!! With the GFX’s 0.79x crop you get about a 36mm (35.55mm) equivalent with the depth equivalent of F1.4. Please note that this is the depth equivalent, not total light transmission!!

This lens is razor sharp wide open and somehow gets even sharper stopped down. A really cool and helpful feature of this lens is the built-in stabilization, which works wonderfully on the GFX50R (no ibis)! Also it’s weather sealed!! THEN ON TOP OF ALL OF THAT you can find these for about $200 or so online!!

NOW, i do need to speak about the cons, there’s not much but i do need to speak on this. The autofocus is definitely on the slower side. Not as slow as other lenses i’ve tested but still slower than the Canon 40 or the Sigma 50! It’s also a bit hit or miss, i usually get a keeper rate of 7/10 with this lens. I feel like sometimes the lens just doesn’t like to play well with either the fringer adapter or doesn’t work well with the 50R’s contrast based AF. I KNOW I KNOW the fringer was designed for the bodies that have phase detect, but i can’t justify dropping that much on a 100 series camera. not yet.

This is a fantastic offering, and a SHARP 35mm equivalent for the GFX that produces some of the most beautiful images i’ve ever created. The slower AF is a pain but it definitely helps you to slow down which helps you stay more involved with the photos you’re taken. You gotta remember that this is “medium format” so you can’t really spray and prey like you can with smaller formats.

This will be a lens that i will always recommend to people try when they’re wanting to adapt non native lenses to their gfx bodies!

[sirfrogsworth]

Please correct me if I'm wrong, but what I believe OP is referencing that in Fine Arts and other similar 2D drawn/painted/etc arts, the general goal of taking photos is to keep the light as flat as possible so that the photo itself has no change in values aside from the actual ink/paint/etc. I.e. in taking a picture of the Mona Lisa, you generally don't see a cast shadow from, say, a tree branch (ignoring that it's in a museum, of course with minimal lighting for preservation reasons). You don't want to see shadows from where an artist may have pushed down the pencil too hard on the paper, or the crags in oil paintings (typically). It's why scanners got pretty encouraged for high res/no shadows/etc in early online art communities.

However, I would also like OP to check out art from the 60s and 70s I believe, where a lot of artists did play with the reflection of light and shadow in their works, and while a good lot of them are 3D or Installation artists, there are others that working more 2D, and also more contemporary artists that specifically use light and shadow play in their work (I forget the artist's name, but there's one who uses lights to create window glows in his ink and pencil drawings), and how shadow puppetry with flat, hinged cut outs was a very early style in animated films.

So please, play with shadows and light in your flat/drawn artworks if it makes you happy! Art is made to play, and there are some extremely unique ways to incorporate your surroundings into that work. And who knows, you could be the one to start another movement. That flat lighting has its place in college portfolios, but not every piece of art can be so neatly packaged.

Art preservation has two main ways to document fine art. Scanning or photographing.

The standard photographic way is typically to use a very high resolution medium format camera (Usually a Phase One) with a lens with minimal distortion. Two lights are placed on either side of the painting angled at 45 degrees toward the center. And this creates a very evenly lit photograph with minimal shadows. Color charts are placed near the painting in the same light so the photo can be calibrated later on.

For museum quality documentation, this process may be done in a stitched panorama to increase the overall resolution. But there are also pixel shift technologies where the camera can offset the physical sensor by one pixel in any direction to allow capturing maximum detail. A 100 megapixel camera essentially becomes 400 megapixels. It's a very finicky process requiring concrete floors and sturdy mounts (any microscopic movement will ruin the process), but it produces amazing results when captured by an experienced professional.

Scanning is best if the form factor of the artwork allows for it. There are high end "touchless" scanners that run the art through on a conveyor belt system. This also results in a pretty flat looking representation.

One technique that is becoming popular is 3D microscopy. This allows them to capture the fine texture of the painting. They can also put the painting in any lighting environment after the fact. So you can do shadowless, even lighting or you can do a side light that rakes across the texture, allowing you to see paint cracks and brush strokes more defined.

Here is the Girl with the Pearl Earring's eye catchlight, which apparently is a bit of a glob.

There is a video on this process including a huge 3D print where people can physically experience the texture of the painting.

And you can check out the 3D scan of the Girl with a Pearl Earring here.

With VR headsets growing in popularity, I imagine these professional tools for creating 3D representations will become more accessible. And people will be able to scan their own art in a similar fashion. Canon is already developing a dual lens system that might be applicable.

[howlsofbloodhounds]

Because I had headcanon that Color is Autistic and has developed special interests in things such as photography, travel, maybe even things like social advocacy.

Maybe even philosophy and psychology. For now, in this posts, I’ll focus on the big two: photography and traveling. (I will also touch on how Color’s physical disability, chronic fatigue, his autism, and perhaps his ptsd/ separation anxiety from Killer also effect his ability to engage in his interests in another post.)

I think he’d develop some decent if not above average technical knowledge, such as camera types and functions. Detailed understanding of different types of cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, medium format, etc.) and their specific functions.

Knowledge about various lenses (prime, zoom, wide-angle, telephoto, macro) and their applications. Mastery of camera settings like ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and how to manipulate them for different lighting conditions and artistic effects.

In-depth understanding of how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO interact to create a properly exposed photograph. Proficiency in using software like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or other photo editing tools for post-processing and enhancing images.

He’d learn about artistic elements such as composition techniques, lighten and color theory. Develop a familiarity with compositional rules like the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, symmetry, and how to creatively break these rules.

Knowledge about natural and artificial lighting, how to use light to create mood and depth, and techniques like backlighting, side lighting, and using reflectors. Understanding of how colors interact, complementary colors, and how to use color to convey emotion and direct viewer attention.

Awareness of different photography styles (portrait, landscape, macro, street, documentary, astrophotography, etc.) and genres, and what makes each unique.

Knowledge about influential photographers and their work, such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Annie Leibovitz, and contemporary photographers.

Understanding the evolution of photography, from daguerreotypes to digital photography, and significant milestones in the field. Awareness of current trends in photography, popular styles, and emerging technologies.

And, of course, he’d develop and grow practical experiences and hands on practice. Experience with on-location shoots, managing different weather conditions, and adapting to various shooting environments.

Knowledge about how to properly maintain and clean camera equipment to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Skills in troubleshooting common issues like lens flare, sensor dust, or focus problems.

He’d have a deep enthusiasm for specific techniques or subjects he enjoys photographing, whichever or whatever you all think those could be exactly.

Likely to have personal photography projects, well-organized portfolios, and possibly an online presence showcasing their work. Extensive collection of books, articles, videos, and tutorials related to photography.

A special interest in traveling, in addition to photography, would manifest in the character in several ways, showcasing their passion and extensive knowledge about various aspects of travel. Here are some specific aspects:

For his interest in travel, he’d be very well versed in the planning and research process. Color might create comprehensive travel itineraries, meticulously planning each day's activities, routes, and schedules.

He might gradually develop an extensive knowledge about various travel destinations, including historical sites, natural landmarks, cultural attractions, and lesser-known gems.

He’d display a proficiency in booking flights, accommodations, and transportation, as well as understanding visa requirements, travel insurance, and local regulations.

An expertise in packing efficiently, knowing what to bring for different climates and activities, and how to pack photography gear safely for travel. Color is likely to show a very deep and profound appreciation for different cultures, learning basic phrases or even fluency in multiple languages to better communicate while traveling.

He’d definitely show a deep interest in trying and understanding local cuisines, knowing popular dishes, and even recipes from various regions. He’d have at least some knowledge about local customs, traditions, festivals, and etiquette to respect and immerse themselves in different cultures.

He’d certainly develop some geographical and historical knowledge, with a detailed understanding of world geography, maps, and the ability to navigate using traditional maps as well as digital tools.

Knowledge about the history of the places he visits, including significant events, historical figures, and the cultural evolution of the region.

He might maintain detailed travel logs or journals documenting his experiences, including photos, notes, and personal reflections. He’d definitely collect souvenirs, postcards, or other memorabilia from his travels; often gifting them to beloved friends.

He’d probably engage with travel communities, forums, and social media groups to share experiences and gain insights.

This special interest would possibly lead to him gaining a lot of practical skills, such as in budget management. Expertise in budgeting for travel, finding deals, and managing expenses effectively.

He might display an ability to adapt to different environments, handle unexpected situations, and problem-solve while on the go.

Although it’d probably be harder for him than most, particularly if he has a harder time handling and dealing with change—especially if the change is unexpected and unplanned.

Knowledge about staying healthy while traveling, such as understanding local healthcare options, vaccinations, and travel safety tips.

He’d like combine both interests by using his photography skills to capture stunning images of the places he visits, creating travel blogs or photo albums to document his journeys.

He might create photo essays or visual stories that capture the essence of the cultures and places he explores. Share his travel experiences and recommendations with others, possibly through writing travel guides, blogs, or social media content.

All this is to say that Killer would definitely encourage Color to come with him to explore abandoned places and ghost towns, and Color’s going to be so overjoyed he starts hand flapping. He’s going to take so many pictures, he’s going to remember it forever.

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

Third League Royals: A Guide to Building Standardized nuSLDF BattleMechs

"Third League Royal" is a term coined for refitted and modernized BattleMechs deployed by the Star League Defense Force (SLDF) of the Third Star League from 3151 onward, in the Touchdown AU.

These upgraded designs follow strict formatting guidelines to ensure interoperability, survivability, and networked warfare efficiency in the modern battlefield.

This guide outlines how to construct a Third League Royal using MegaMekLab (MML), with a focus on out-of-universe implementation.

Core Features of a Third League Royal:

1. Mixed Clan Techbase (Unofficial Rules Enabled):

All Third League Royals must use the Mixed Clan techbase.

The Unofficial Tech Level must be enabled in MML to permit these configurations.

Furthermore, under the Tech Progression tab in Options, you must enable "ignore intro/extinct years for Unofficial Tech Level units"

2. Nova CEWS or Equivalent EW Suite:

All standard Third League Royals mount the Nova Combined Electronic Warfare Suite. Usually placed in the head slot, unless:

a) The 'Mech has a traditional head-mounted system that takes priority.

and/or

b) A Small Command Console cockpit is in use.

Exceptions:

Recon or command-focused 'Mechs may instead mount:

a) Clan ECM Suite (fluffed as "Archangel ECM").

and/or

b) Clan Active Probe (fluffed as "Wolfhound Active Probe").

3. Small Cockpits & Command Consoles:

All units use Small Cockpit technology.

Command variants use the Small Command Console Cockpit.

Ensure the cockpit is armored via the Assign Criticals tab in MML.

4. Armored Cowl Equipment:

All designs must mount an Armored Cowl in the head.

Must be armored via the Assign Criticals tab.

5. Clan-Tech Modernization of Legacy Loadouts:

Loadouts should (but do not have to) resemble previous variants of the 'Mech.

Upgrade to Clan equipment wherever appropriate:

IS Medium Lasers → Clan ER Medium Lasers.

IS Gauss Rifle → Clan Gauss Rifle or HAG.

LRM/SRM systems → Clan ATM or Streak launchers.

6. IS Composite Structure:

Must be selected under Structure.

7. Clan Double Heat Sinks:

Exclusively use Clan Double Heat Sinks.

Install as many as the design allows to minimize heat buildup (see below for Quirks that will effect the final number).

8. Supercharger Optimization:

Optional but recommended for weight efficiency:

Downgrade engine rating by one step.

Add a Supercharger to restore original speed.

Example: 300-rated engine → 285-rated + Supercharger.

9. Quirks:

a) Add the following universal Quirks (in addition to any original ones):

Battle Computer (replaces Command Mek Quirk if present on base model)

Combat Computer (+4 sunk per turn on top of normal heat sinks - not shown in MML UI, total heat/heat sunk must be manually calculated)

Cowl

Easy to Pilot

Extended Torso Twist

Improved Communications

Improved Sensors

Multi-Trac

Variable Range Targeting

b) If Jump Jets are present, add:

Reinforced Legs

c) Weapon and AMS Quirks:

i) All weapons (energy, ballistic, missile) must have:

Accurate Weapon

Improved Cooling Jacket (reduces individual weapon heat by one - not shown in MML UI, total heat/heat sunk must be manually calculated)

ii) All AMS types must have:

Directional Torso Mounted Weapon

d) Negative Quirks of the original design should be removed unless given a compelling lore reason.

10) Additional Design Notes:

a) Armor Allocation: Prioritize maximum armor where weight allows, using Clan Ferro-Fibrous or Ferro-Lamellor if possible.

b) CASE II: Highly recommended for Clan ammo-fed weaponry.

c) Head Slot Limitations: If both Nova CEWS and Command Console are needed, prioritize the Command Console and shift Nova to an alternate location.

The Third League Royal format creates a high-performance, standardized set of BattleMechs optimized for 32nd-century mixed-technology, survival-focused, network-centric warfare. By following this guide in MegaMekLab, players can build compliant 'Mechs that reflect the Third Star League's vision of a modern, networked military. Whether deploying a reimagined Atlas or a revitalized Shadow Hawk, your 'Mech will carry the legacy of the Star League forward—into the next era of warfare.

[navcommrelay]

Wrath

/////Transmission Start///// CFRI OPSCOM N. LINDSBORG TO ALL OPERATION TOUCHDOWN SLDF AND ALLIED ELEMENTS: At 1526 hours local standard time, CFRI Angel Squadron performed an escort operation alongside a DropShip from @seafoxmathias delivering 'Mechs to in-field forces of @harwood-pmc-official. During this operation, COMSCAN detected a spike in ambient heat bearing southwest of the operational zone, and directed Angel Squadron on a pass-by course to check the area... Captain Molly Sanders was the wing lead of Angel Squadron. Had been for the better part of a decade, now- ever since Captain Raiken had that unfortunate engine failure. Captain Sanders was confident, assured, and in control- especially in the cockpit of her Sparrow, Angel-1.

Right now, though, she was none of those things.

The cockpit was alive with panic alarms- proximity warning for incoming Long Range Missiles, radar lock warnings, damage control warnings, and- most notably- the piercing whistle signifying her canopy had been breached by whatever the hell had taken potshots at Angel Squadron as they breached the horizon over the main road. Cursing wildly, she peered through the spiderwebbed ferroglass in front, trying desperately to assess whether her flight path was stable. The damage was impact- no molten airframe, no scorching heat filtering in through the damaged cockpit meant whatever had hit her wasn't an energy weapon. A world-shaking BOOM rocked the Sparrow in midair, sending the craft arcing through the sky away from the rest of the formation as Angel-6's bomb load detonated midair. The cloud of smoke and ash provided a reference point, and as she frantically righted the crippled aircraft, a blurry and fractured silhouette was visible below. Angel-4, unable to avoid both the debris from the bomber and the incoming autocannon fire, started coming apart piecemeal, blasts tearing great rents through the light armor of the fighter before it simply broke in two. A momentary flash of light, heat- not only visible but tactile even at this distance- lit the world like a thousand fireworks as an impossibly bright beam lanced up from below and simply erased Angel-2 and Angel-3. No explosion, no flame, just a streak of light and two puffs of smoke. Careening towards the ground, Molly frantically grabbed for the canopy breakaway lever, hauling with all her might, before the seals gave and the wind tore the structure from her aircraft. Blinking against afterimages, she banked, ejecting chaff, flares, and her reserve fuel tanks, desperate to outrun the incoming missiles. A last-minute ping from her craft's sensors sent a brief, surface-level analysis of the strange structures below that had turned her squad into a memory, before she joined them in oblivion. PAN PAN PAN EMERGENCY BROADCAST ANGEL-1 TAC ASSESSMENT: Manufacturer: Unknown Production Year: Unknown Model ID Beacon: JHA-000 Jericho Class: Superheavy 'Mech Type: Word of Blake Drone Hex-Mech Error: 'Mech size exceeds integer bounding parameters. Override. Mass: 250 Tons Chassis: Reinforced Structure Armor: Improved Ferro-Lamellor Engine: UNKNOWN Heat Sinks: UNKNOWN Speed: UNKNOWN Armament: 1x Experimental Extra-Light Naval Subcapital Laser 2x Gauss Rifle 2x Extended-Range LRM-20 6x LBX Autocannon-10 6x Ultra Autocannon-2 12x Micro Pulse Laser 6x Variable-Speed Medium Pulse Laser 6x Laser Anti-Missile System Improved C3 Computer Beagle Active Probe ARCHANGEL Advanced ECM Suite WARNING: Multiple units detected. WARNING: Accompanying elements detected. Error: Transmission offline. Get ready, everyone. /////END TRANSMISSION/////

[jsdominates]

LensCraft Mastery: Elevate Your Photography Skills to the Next Level

Photography is more than just pressing a button; it’s an art, a science, and a means of storytelling. LensCraft Mastery is a comprehensive guide designed to help photographers—whether beginners or seasoned professionals—unlock their full creative potential. This tutorial series delves into the intricate aspects of photography, from mastering the fundamentals of exposure and composition to exploring advanced techniques in lighting, post-processing, and storytelling through imagery.

Why LensCraft Mastery?

The name LensCraft Mastery symbolizes the fusion of technical expertise (Lens) with artistic craftsmanship (Craft). Photography is both a technical discipline and an expressive medium, requiring a balance between understanding camera mechanics and developing an artistic vision. This tutorial series aims to bridge that gap by offering structured, easy-to-follow lessons that cater to all levels of experience.

1. Mastering the Basics of Photography

For those new to photography, LensCraft Mastery begins with the fundamental concepts that form the backbone of great photography:

Exposure Triangle: The Key to Perfectly Lit Photos

Aperture: Understanding how f-stops affect depth of field and light intake.

Shutter Speed: Capturing motion creatively, from freezing action to long exposures.

ISO: Controlling sensor sensitivity for optimal brightness without excessive noise.

Composition Techniques: Crafting Visually Stunning Images

Rule of Thirds: Placing subjects strategically for balanced compositions.

Leading Lines: Drawing the viewer’s eye to the subject.

Framing & Negative Space: Enhancing depth and focus in a photograph.

2. Advanced Photography Techniques

Once the basics are mastered, LensCraft Mastery delves into techniques that can take your photography to a professional level.

Understanding Light & Shadows

The role of natural light vs. artificial lighting in photography.

How to use soft light for flattering portraits and harsh light for dramatic effects.

Mastering golden hour and blue hour photography.

Camera Settings & Manual Mode

How to use manual focus for precision.

Customizing white balance for accurate color reproduction.

Shooting in RAW vs. JPEG and when to use each format.

3. Specialized Photography Genres

Photography is a vast field, and LensCraft Mastery explores different genres, allowing photographers to find their niche.

Portrait Photography

How to pose subjects naturally for candid and professional shots.

Best lenses for portrait photography (prime vs. zoom).

Background blur (bokeh) techniques for dreamy aesthetics.

Landscape Photography

Composition techniques for breathtaking vistas.

Use of ND (neutral density) filters for long exposures.

How to capture the perfect sunrise and sunset.

Street Photography

Capturing the essence of everyday life.

Ethical considerations in photographing strangers.

How to blend into the scene for natural compositions.

Wildlife & Macro Photography

Tips for photographing animals in motion.

Choosing the best gear for close-up macro shots.

Patience and planning for capturing rare moments.

4. The Power of Post-Processing

A great photo doesn’t always end with the camera—post-processing is essential for refining images. LensCraft Mastery provides in-depth tutorials on:

Adobe Lightroom & Photoshop Editing

Adjusting exposure, contrast, and white balance for balanced images.

Retouching techniques for portraits and landscapes.

Removing unwanted elements and enhancing details.

Mobile Editing for On-the-Go Photography

Best apps for editing (Snapseed, VSCO, Lightroom Mobile).

Color grading techniques for a unique aesthetic.

Quick retouching methods for social media-ready images.

5. Developing a Photographer’s Mindset

Photography is more than just technical skill—it requires creativity, patience, and an eye for detail. LensCraft Mastery helps photographers develop a storytelling approach, teaching how to:

Capture emotions and narratives within a single frame.

Use minimalism and abstract photography to create intriguing images.

Experiment with angles and perspectives to bring a fresh outlook to everyday scenes.

6. Monetizing Your Photography Skills

For those looking to turn their passion into a profession, LensCraft Mastery includes insights on:

How to start a photography business and build a portfolio.

Selling photos online (stock photography, prints, NFTs).

Social media strategies to grow an audience and attract clients.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your craft, LensCraft Mastery offers a structured, engaging, and practical way to enhance your photography skills. By blending technical knowledge, artistic creativity, and real-world applications, this tutorial series is designed to empower photographers at every stage of their journey.

Start mastering your craft today and turn your vision into reality—one frame at a time. 📸✨

[seeyatellite]

Art doesn’t require the best equipment, I know… and many wonderful artists start with nothing. I was lucky to find a beautiful, video-capable camera to expand on and play with my pre-existing understanding of photo and video arts.

I love Nikii. She’s a beautiful camera with such potential I could only ever dream of fully harnessing.

I always imagined a Sony for me… and Sony’s E mount system does fill me with envy at times. This Z6ii is a full-frame goddess equipped with everything I could ever hope for to taste the mirrorless world from my prior film and consumer digital camera experience.

Besides, the Z system has lenses hailed as the most crisp and beautiful glass on the market.

…also, yes… I will be buying a cropped sensor Sony for everyday experimentation with much cheaper lenses. The Sony a1 line and FX line are my dream cams after all… full-frame anyway.

We won’t talk about medium format today.

This return to form required letting go of other people’s expectations, imposed values and even getting rid of some unwanted things I let people convince me to invest in; a drum kit for one. My only comfortable instruments were always my voice, my heart, a pencil, qwerty keyboard and a camera… so I now have mics and cameras with pencils and qwerty keyboards as support.

It sucks to lose your heart in self-sacrifice believing it’s for a common community goal.

Now, with therapy and introspection I find again my roots of self-expression. Nikii sets that beautiful road before me and I’m forever grateful for her presence in my life. Promise I’ll focus on a Z8 line upgrade before I cheat with Sony.

Okay… well maybe I’m polycamera-ous.

[michaelwriston]

Hey Micheal what camera would you reccomend to some one starting out taking photos & what’s your set up?

Hey!

I'm a firm believer in buying an inexpensive DSLR or mirrorless setup with interchangeable lenses. You don't have to break the bank on a starter setup — just focus on buying a camera with a robust selection of first- and third-party lenses.

My usual advice is to start simple and only upgrade gear once you run into a physical or technical limitation that stops you from realizing your vision. For example, if you're not getting the shallow depth of field you want with your current lens and body, then maybe it's time to consider buying a lens with a larger maximum aperture (e.g., f/1.8 or f/1.4).

I started out with a Nikon D50 and a Nikkor 50mm f/1.8. That served me well for nearly five years, before I started running into technical limitations with the sensor that made shooting night photos difficult. That's when I switched to shooting medium format film for a spell, before ultimately settling on a full-frame Canon digital body. All-in-all, that experimentation period took about 17 years (I'm still not done).

That said, shop used for your first camera. Places like KEH or MPB have a great selection of tested and used gear. I personally shop from MPB. Here are a few great beginner full-frame camera bodies. I'll break out lenses later on in this post.

Why full frame? I think you get superior image quality, better depth of field, better image resolution for printing, and phenomenal dynamic range.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III ($714)

Nikon D750 ($774)

Canon 6D Mark II ($884)

Nikon D810 ($819)

Anyone of these are going to get the job done and then some.

The world of lenses is complicated and varied. You'll have “prime purists” that will tell you to eschew zoom lenses and only shoot prime (a lens with no zoom capabilities). You'll have people that say longer telephotos are all you need. The truth is, you'll find your niche the more you shoot. I prefer prime lenses for their simplicity (and the less I have to think about, the better).

I'll break these out by purpose.

Portraiture

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 ($259)

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 ($134)

Nikkor 85mm f/1.8 ($184)

Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 ($78)

Landscapes

Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS ($294)

Nikkor AF 24mm f/2.8 ($134)

Multipurpose

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-f/5.6 IS STM ($54)

Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ($73)

I could go on and on, but this is enough to get you a start in the right direction.

If I were to put together a beginner kit with the above options, I would snatch up the Canon 5D Mark III with the Canon 50mm f/1.8 and the Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS. Total cost before taxes and shipping would be $1,142. You would have an incredibly flexible kit that lends itself to portraiture, landscapes, and street work, all for the same price as a new “prosumer” kit with only one lens from Amazon or other big box stores. If you don't know which direction you want to go, or you want to save on cost, there's nothing wrong with swapping out the two primes and grabbing the 18-55mm kit lens for next to nothing. That will at least let you dabble with different focal lengths and see what suits you.

I'm happy to answer any other questions here!

P.S. I shoot with a Canon EOS 6D Mark I and usually have a Sigma 35mm f/1.4 lens mounted on it for street portrait/street landscape work. My other carry-around camera is a Ricoh GR III.

[woodyallen2]

Pentax 645Z Review

Medium-format cameras offer truly spectacular resolution, but until now, it's always come best camera alongside a difficult compromise. With the Pentax 645Z, that changes. Building on 2010's 645D, the Pentax 645Z offers features that are rare or in some cases unique in a medium-format camera. Pick up its weather-sealed body, and you'll find both live view and video capture on offer, not to mention an extremely wide sensitivity range, 27-point phase-detect autofocus system -- and compared to rivals, very swift performance too! And of course, you'll get the incredible detail-gathering capability of medium-format, plus a really big, bright viewfinder. Is it time you considered moving up from full-frame? Read on and find out!

Pros Phenomenal resolution and detail; Great high ISO performance; Rugged, weather-sealed body; Huge, bright viewfinder; Fast autofocus works well in low light; Swift performance for a medium-format camera; Good battery life; Shoots Full HD video

Cons Quite bulky compared to an APS-C or full-frame DSLR; Autofocus points clustered near center of frame; Most lenses aren't weather-sealed or optimized for digital; Prone to aliasing artifacts (but so are most high-end cameras these days); Attracts a lot of attention from passers-by

Price and availability Available since June 2014, the Pentax 645Z is priced at US$8,500 body-only.

Back in early 2010, Pentax launched the 645D, a medium-format digital SLR that it had been developing for the previous five years. It might have been a long time coming, but it was nonetheless exciting for it. The 645D leapfrogged rivals Canon, Nikon and Sony with two-thirds greater sensor area than a full-frame sensor, yielding a unique look and shallower depth of field. At the same time, it was vastly more affordable than offerings from medium-format makers like Hasselblad and Phase One, yet rugged enough to be used in the field.

Pentax 645Z Review -- Front view with lens The reason Pentax -- since taken over by Ricoh -- could offer its camera at a more attractive price-point than other medium-format products was pretty simple. Much of the design work for the 645D could be shared with the company's mass market, APS-C DSLRs, where Hasselblad and Phase One -- neither of which sells consumer SLRs -- had to bear the entire cost of development solely with their medium format products.

While Pentax lacked (and indeed, still lacks) a full-frame DSLR, the 645D served both as an aspirational model for the enthusiasts to look up to, and as something genuinely different to attract pros for whom that resolution and medium-format look was more important than high-speed capture. And boy, did it ever offer a lot of resolution by 2010 standards. (In fact, it's only recently that we've started to see cameras with smaller sensors catching up.) When we first put the 645D in our lab, we were amazed to find that it picked up details we'd never even noticed in our test scenes -- details that we couldn't even see with our own eyes, until we pulled out a magnifying glass to confirm them.

Pentax 645Z Review -- Weather seals Just like the medium-format film cameras in whose footsteps it followed, the 645D was never going to be a mass-market camera. Medium-format is an even smaller niche than it was in the film days, but the 645D was nonetheless a very important camera for the company, and its followup -- the Pentax 645Z -- is no less important.

Just like its predecessor, the Pentax 645Z shares much with Ricoh's flagship APS-C DSLRs -- and with four years of development having taken place on the APS-C front since the 645D was launched, there was no shortage of new features for it to inherit. But the most important feature of them all is at its very heart, a brand-new, Sony-sourced 51-megapixel CMOS image sensor. It's coupled to a PRIME III image processor, as first seen in the K-3, and the 645Z also inherits that camera's 27-point SAFOX 11 autofocus and 86,000 pixel RGB metering systems.

The 645Z's new image sensor allows a spectacularly wide sensitivity range, especially by medium-format camera standards, covering everything up to ISO 204,800 equivalent. It also provides both live view and Full HD movie capture capabilities, neither of which its predecessor was capable of. And performance has taken a big step forwards, at least compared to other medium-format cameras. This still isn't a sports shooter, but it'll shoot at almost triple the speed of the 645D. You'll also be able to review photos post-capture in less than half the time.

[notsogoodphotographer]

Canon 40mm f2.8 Adapted to my GFX50R

This is a match made in heaven, i believe that this is currently (as of February 18th 2025) the smallest digital medium format combo out there. This set up is close to perfection for me!

With the 40mm adapted to GFX you get the focal equivalent of 32mm (31.6mm with the .79x crop) with the depth of field equivalent of F2.2. Please note that even though the DoF equiv. is f2.2 that doesn’t mean that you’ll be letting in the same amount of light as a lens with a f2.2 aperture.

Corner sharpness is fantastic! F2.8 can get smeary sometimes but when stopped down the IQ is sharp corner to corner. This lens handles the 4:3 sensor excellently! As of lately i haven’t been someone who cares too much about IQ and pixel peeping (which is why im totally fine with adapting these older lenses) but this lens is so incredibly sharp paired with this system that i’m always blown away that you can get this level of detail with a $100 lens.

There are a couple cons with this lens. first one being wide open at f2.8 IQ suffers a bit, i find center sharpness is more than usable but in some situations it can get pretty soft looking. I personally don’t like the out of focus bits on this lens so i usually shoot it stopped down. There’s no weather sealing so you do need to be careful, fortunately the Fringer adapter is weather sealed but i still don’t want to risk frying these electronics. Autofocus is pretty decent considering i’m adapting this to a Contrast based system, it’s definitely on the faster side for adapted lenses and it’s pretty accurate but it’s still very slow compared to modern tech. i feel like this shouldn’t be in the cons sections as it’s more of dig towards the older GFX50R af system but i still wanted to bring it up for those who are curious.

This is a lens that i highly recommend every GFX user who is looking for a cheap, lightweight lens that’s not a native GF lens! If you’re use the older 50 series AF system then you’ll know how to work with this lens. I feel like this combo is something truly special though, you don’t usually see digital medium format cameras this size. This is the closest you can get to a medium format x100, well until fuji drops the GFX100RF.

[leclercskiesahead]

https://formu1a.uno/ferrari-con-altezze-piu-aggressive-a-causa-della-configurazione-aero-red-bull-e-mclaren-le-piu-conservative/

It was not debunked that they chose random, there was a especulation made by autosport that is not random but this is not the same as "debunked", it's a piece of opinion

In this news I'm sharing they believe to be random

And about the impact of the strategy, as you can see in this report the biggest wear happened in the beginning of the race

In austria they almost went over limit as well and he wasn't under a bad strategy like in this one.

They also believe carlos might be with the same issue, since they had a similar setup and carlos wasn't under a one stop strategy

In the end it was mostly caused by the nature of the sprint weekend that doesn't allow them to test more and the bumps on the track.

The Race also mentioned using sensor data for selection. Autosport isn’t the only one. Also like, what are the odds that a purely random draw manages to pull out all 3 podium finishers and the pole sitter.

Yes the sprint format also hampered Charles where his team has less time to fine tune his set up. If his floor had even been half mm higher, it could have swung his test from fail to pass, since he only failed by some tenths of mm.

See I do think that Carlos being on the two-stop *could* have helped him keep under the limit, if the scrutineers did decide to call his car back, as he had more robust tyres on average across the race duration so the car can push more efficiently. Which means even if he has a lot of wear at the start, he may not have accrued enough from the remaining laps to fail.

Also if based on the race start alone, his first stint was different from Charles, because once he overtook Ham, he was holding position and just trying not to lose the place back. So for a while Charles is chasing Lando and Carlos is just holding behind. Different situation -> different pressure on the car -> different wear. Maybe that is enough to just keep under the limit. Again, even like half an mm saving by Carlos could have swung it from fail to pass.

Interestingly he did say he wore out his first set of mediums too quickly, so he could have accrued more wear at the start than Charles. So maybe he would still fail. Or maybe his set up had the plank *just* slightly higher. Or rode a few less curbs.

Even if he would fail, isn’t it good for Ferrari that they didn’t choose to call his car up? They could have potentially lost all their points but they only lose half. They also lost less points than merc. Dodge the bullet, take the points, move on to the next race.

[digitaldreamworlds]

Sony Mavica FD-7 (1997)

This is the Sony Digital Mavica FD-7, released in 1997!

Sony is probably more well known now for their line of professional mirrorless cameras, but back in the heyday of digital photography, Sony was doing some strange, strange things.

The history of Sony's ventures into digital photography has been covered extensively on the internet, so I won't go into it much, other than the quick facts. In 1981, the first product of theirs to bear the Mavica name was a prototype Still Video Camera from 1981. Still Video Cameras are a whole other can of worms as well (and one I really really want to get into when I inevitably come into possession of one). Mavica stood for MAgnetic VIdeo CAmera. The photos, which were just still frames taken from video were stored on these:

VFDs, or Video Floppy Disks. Again, this is a whole other beast when it comes to the history of digital photography. Sony manufactured a few of these Still Video Cameras under the Mavica line in the 1980s. Eventually this product line was discontinued, but Sony resurrected the Mavica name for a long-running series of floppy disk (and later CD) based cameras in the mid 1990s and 2000s.

The FD-7 was part of the first run of Sony's Digital Mavicas, along with the FD-5, pictured below, which was the lower end model with a fixed focus lens.

The FD-7 was the higher end model with a much larger lens, a 4.2-42mm f1.8, and has a 10x optical zoom. Both stored their images, as shown above, onto floppy disks.

You could store about 40 or so images in the camera's Standard mode, and about 20 in Fine mode, which for the time and the storage medium was pretty respectable. Floppy disks were everywhere at the time, so there really wouldn't have been any issue in terms of running out of storage.

One other quirk of these cameras I'd like to address are the Field/Frame modes. The Mavicas are actually doing something sort of clever here. The image sensor inside is still one used for video.

If you look at this image I've taken, you can see there's an after-image left behind on it. This is a result of the camera's sensor. The Field/Frame option does...something...that I think reduces the effect (Honestly Clint from LGR's video on this is where you should go for the technical details https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Nu6C-Ci7_Q)

ANYWAY. With all of that out of the way, here are some of the shots I've taken! (As with a LOT of digital cameras from around this time, the FD-7 shoots in 640x480 resolution, with quality modes delineating the amount of compression the image is given. All of these shots were taken in Fine mode.)

(This camera has a very good macro mode, btw!)

And there you have it! Honestly, I may just forego the rating portion of these after the first one. I want my concluding thoughts to be more interesting than a bunch of numbers.

If you like the challenges shooting with a low resolution and on a non-standard memory format, pick one of these up! USB floppy drives can be found for really cheap, and you can just drag and drop them from the disks right on to your computer, no fiddling required. I will say though, as a warning, that this stuff is nearing 30 years old. I actually have two of the FD-7s because my first one failed and refuses to focus in any way. Floppy disks can also be a problem, as I've had certain ones fail to record images due to bad sectors.

Other than that, these cameras feel surprisingly good in the hands, despite their boxiness, and are generally just really fun cameras to use. I have some of the later Mavicas, and while their image quality is better, (with the caveat that you can store much less images per disk) the original has this charm to it. It was the first of a series of really odd cameras that feel alien compared to today's camera market. And just for that, I think it's so cool.

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

SLDF - Operation PERSUASION

New Derry Outskirts

Caph III

December 22, 3151

The air above Caph's northern continent of Brunell shimmered with humid heat as Highlander 'Mechs pressed forward. The 1st Kearny Highlanders, veterans of countless campaigns, moved with precision and discipline, their ranks anchored by Colonel Cadha Jaffray’s imposing Atlas. The towering machine strode at the center of the formation, its autocannon swiveling to track distant movement as its pilot issued commands.

"Captain Street, report!" Jaffray’s voice cut through the comms, sharp and commanding.

"Engaged with Capellan skirmishers near the old research outpost, Colonel," Street replied, his Shadow Hawk trading shots with a pair of CCAF Vindicator 'Mechs. "They’re pulling back, but they���ve got reinforcements closing fast."

Jaffray frowned, her brow furrowing beneath her neurohelmet. The Capellans had proven tenacious on Caph, their forces holding key supply routes and fortified positions despite repeated assaults. The Highlanders’ mission—to disrupt Capellan operations and gather intelligence for Duke Hansen—had been straightforward on paper, but the reality had become far more complicated.

"Hold your ground, Street," Jaffray ordered. "We’ll push up and reinforce. Highlanders, advance by lance and keep an eye on your flanks. The Capellans love their ambushes."

The column surged forward, the rhythmic thud of 'Mech footfalls echoing across the landscape. Above them, contrails streaked through the sky as aerospace fighters dueled for dominance, their engines roaring like thunder. Highlander artillery in the rear fired sporadic salvos, their shells arcing overhead to detonate amidst Capellan defensive lines.

The Capellans, true to their reputation, fought with cunning and brutality. Minefields and sniper positions had delayed the Highlanders’ advance. Still, the Highlanders pressed on.

Near the remains of the old research outpost, Captain Street’s lance dug in, using the rocky terrain for cover. His Shadow Hawk, now pockmarked with laser burns, stood alongside a pair of Centurions and a Rifleman, their weapons trained on the ridge ahead.

"Colonel," Street’s voice crackled over the comms. "We’ve got movement—multiple signatures. It’s not Capellans."

Jaffray’s Atlas crested a hill, its sensors sweeping the horizon. The readouts confirmed Street’s report: a new force was entering the battlefield from the west, their signals unfamiliar but unmistakably Clan. She keyed the open channel.

"Highlanders, tighten up and prepare to engage. We’ve got incoming—Clanners."

The first 'Mechs appeared moments later, their sleek designs and emerald-hued paint schemes glinting in the harsh sunlight.

Jade Falcons.

One of the Highlander 'Mechs opened fire, scoring hits on a Falcon Stormcrow.

A Summoner, leading the Clan vanguard, fired a precise gauss rifle shot that slammed into a Highlander Centurion, sending the medium 'Mech stumbling backward.

"Contact!" Street shouted, his Shadow Hawk’s autocannon roaring to life. The Highlanders opened fire, their weapons blazing as the Falcons advanced. Pulse lasers and PPCs crisscrossed the battlefield, carving glowing trails through the dust-filled air.

Colonel Jaffray gritted her teeth as her Atlas fired its LB 10-X autocannon, the cluster rounds hammering a Falcon Nova and forcing it to retreat. The Highlanders fought fiercely, but the Falcons’ precision and coordination were undeniable. The enemy warriors moved with the deadly grace of predators, their every action deliberate and efficient.

As the battle raged, a second Falcon formation appeared on the Highlanders’ flank, led by a Turkina B. The massive assault 'Mech paused atop a ridge, its weapons silent as the pilot opened a channel.

"All Jade Falcons, stand down. Highlanders," a female voice rang out, calm yet imperious. "This is Khan Stephanie Chistu. Please, cease fire. We are not your enemy. The Capellans are the true threat here."

Jaffray hesitated, her finger hovering over the trigger. The Falcons’ arrival had thrown the battlefield into chaos, and now their leader was calling for an end to hostilities. She glanced at her tactical display, which showed Capellan reinforcements closing in from the east. The Highlanders were caught between two powerful foes.

"Colonel," Captain Street’s voice came over the comms, low and urgent. "What do we do?"

Jaffray took a deep breath, her mind racing. The Highlanders’ creed demanded they never yield, but this was no ordinary fight. If the Falcons were sincere, their combined strength could turn the tide against the Capellans. If not...

"All units, hold your fire," she ordered, her voice firm. "Let’s see what they have to say."

The battlefield fell eerily quiet, the only sounds the crackle of burning wreckage and the distant rumble of artillery. Jaffray’s Atlas stepped forward, its shadow falling over the Falcon line as she addressed the Jade Falcon Khan.

"Khan Chistu," Jaffray began, her tone measured. "You’ll forgive me if I’m skeptical of your intentions. Why should we trust you?"

Chistu’s Turkina moved closer, its weapons lowered. "Because we share a common enemy, Colonel Jaffray. The Capellans have no regard for honor or tradition. They are a blight on this world, and together we can purge them. Your mission and ours are compatible."

Jaffray studied the Turkina through her viewscreen, weighing the Khan’s words. The Highlanders had faced impossible odds before, but this alliance—if it could be called that—might be their best chance to survive and complete their mission.

"Very well," Jaffray said at last. "We’ll fight alongside you—but know this: the Highlanders bow to no one."

Chistu inclined her 'Mech’s torso in a simulated nod. "Nor would I ask you to. Let us show these Capellans the price of their arrogance."

Jaffray's Atlas turned and strode forward. Beside her marched Chistu’s Turkina, the towering assault 'Mech exuding an air of dominance.

"Captain Street, report," Jaffray barked over the comms, her voice cutting through the din of battle.

"Engaged with Capellan skirmishers, Colonel," Street replied. His Shadow Hawk traded fire with a squad of Vindicators, their PPCs carving molten scars into the hillside. "They’re pulling back, but we’ve got heavier units moving in from the east. Looks like reinforcements."

Jaffray frowned, her brow furrowing beneath her neurohelmet. "Hold your position, Street. Highlanders, form up—brace for another push. Falcons, I trust your warriors are ready?"

"They are always ready, Colonel," Chistu replied, her voice calm and commanding. "The Capellans will break beneath us, as they always do."

Before Jaffray could respond, her tactical display lit up with new contacts—west of their position, the same direction the Falcons had come from. Sensors struggled to resolve the signatures, but the IFF codes were unmistakable. They read: Star League Defense Force.

"New contacts incoming!" Captain Street’s voice crackled. "IFF reads... Star League? What in God’s name is going on here?"

Jaffray’s hands tightened on her controls, her eyes narrowing at the display. The SLDF? It was impossible. The Star League had been gone for centuries, reduced to little more than myth and legend. And yet, here the computers said they were, advancing on the Highlanders' position.

"Khan Chistu," Jaffray growled, turning her Atlas toward the incoming forces. "What game are you playing? First, you march in like saviors, and now the Star League? Explain yourself!"

Chistu’s Turkina turned slightly to face Jaffray’s Atlas. "This is no game, Colonel," Chistu replied evenly. "The Star League Defense Force has risen anew, united under First Lord Alaric Ward. They are our allies, and they fight for the same purpose as we do: to drive the Capellans from this world and secure peace."

Before Jaffray could respond, a new voice cut through the comms, calm and resolute. "Colonel Jaffray, this is Commanding General Melissa Hazen of the Star League Defense Force."

Jaffray’s tactical display flickered to life, revealing the image of Commanding General Hazen. The sight was almost surreal—an immense, avian figure with emerald feathers and piercing golden eyes, clad in a green cooling suit, bearing the Cameron star of the SLDF. Even through the hologram, Hazen’s presence radiated authority, her demeanor calm but unyielding.

"Colonel," Hazen continued, "I understand your skepticism. But this is no deception. The Star League has returned, and we are here to ensure the survival and unity of the Inner Sphere."

Jaffray’s jaw clenched as she studied the hologram. The rumors had reached even the Highlanders—Alaric Ward’s conquest of Terra, whispers of the Clans forging a new Star League. But seeing it firsthand, standing side by side with the Falcons... it felt impossible.

"You expect me to believe that the Clans, the very people who shattered the Inner Sphere, are now the saviors of humanity?" Jaffray asked, her voice sharp with doubt. "That the Star League fights alongside them?"

Hazen inclined her head slightly. "The Star League is the Clans, Colonel Jaffray. But you are right to question us. The Clans have a bloody history, but under First Lord Ward’s leadership, we have chosen a new path—one of unity, not conquest. We fight for a future where humanity stands together, free from tyranny. Today, that means standing with you against the Capellans."

Jaffray’s display pinged a warning. The Capellan reinforcements were closing in fast, their heavy units forming a spearhead that threatened to shatter the Highlander line. She glanced at the Jade Falcons, then at the SLDF units advancing to reinforce their position. Her Highlanders couldn’t win this battle alone.

"Khan Chistu, General Hazen," Jaffray said at last, her voice steely, "if this is some kind of ruse, you’ll find the Highlanders do not forgive betrayal. But if you’re here to fight, then prove it."

Chistu’s Turkina shifted slightly, its weapons coming to bear on the approaching Capellans. "You will find the Falcons do not betray their word, Colonel. Let us end this together."

Jaffray switched to the Highlander command channel. "Highlanders, hold fire on all Falcon and SLDF units. Target the Capellans only. Let’s see if these allies are as honorable as they claim."

The battlefield erupted in chaos as the Capellans met the combined assault. Falcon pulse lasers and Highlander autocannons carved into the enemy’s vanguard, while Highlander artillery thundered in support. The Capellan line wavered under the relentless onslaught, their forces buckling as the alliance pressed forward.

Jaffray’s Atlas loosed a salvo from its autocannon, the rounds slamming into a Cataphract and sending it crashing to the ground. She couldn’t shake the unease that lingered in her chest. The Star League reborn, and formed by the Clans? It defied everything she had known. For now, survival took precedence. But when the battle ended, Jaffray would demand answers.

The combined might of the Highlanders and Jade Falcons slammed into the Capellan reinforcements with relentless force. The ground shook under the titanic weight of stomping BattleMechs. The land was now a hellscape of burning wreckage, craters, and shattered trees.

Colonel Jaffray’s Atlas trudged forward at the forefront of the Highlander line, its LB 10-X autocannon spewing a storm of cluster rounds into the Capellan front. A Marauder in House Liao's livery staggered as the barrage shredded its left arm and cockpit armor. Before the Capellan pilot could regain control, a jade blur streaked past on towering plumes of fusion fire—Khan Chistu’s Turkina unleashed a withering salvo of pulse and extended-range lasers, carving through the Marauder’s chest in a deadly crossfire. The machine collapsed, a charred ruin, as Chistu's 'Mech slammed back onto the ground.

"Highlanders, press the attack!" Jaffray commanded over the comms. "Hold tight to your lines. Don’t let the Capellans isolate us!"

"Understood, Colonel," Captain Street replied. His Shadow Hawk darted from cover to cover, firing bursts from its autocannon at a Capellan Raven that scurried across the ridge. A Highlander Rifleman alongside him loosed PPC bolts that slammed into the Raven’s rear, sending it toppling in flames.

To the west, the first of the SLDF’s units made themselves known. The 2nd Royal BattleMech Regiment—the former Silver Keshik of Clan Wolf, now flying the banner of the reborn Star League—was a whirlwind of deadly precision. Their paint scheme—the striking old SLDF green accented with red and gold lines, and the insignia of the red canine head of Clan Wolf over a golden Clan daggerstar—gleamed even through the haze of battle. A Nova piloted by a 2nd Royal MechWarrior darted across the field, its arm-mounted pulse lasers scything through a Capellan Cataphract’s armor. Behind it, a pair of Warhammer IICs opened fire, their PPCs connecting in a stunning display of coordination that sent the Cataphract crashing to the dirt.

At the heart of the SLDF line stood Galaxy Commander Ranna Kell, her custom Regent a towering figure of dominance and command. The Light AC/20 in the right torso unleashed a twin burst, each a storm of caseless explosive armor-piercing slugs, tearing through the thick armor of a Capellan Awesome. The Mech staggered, and Kell’s arm-mounted Snub-Nose PPC fired a thunderous bolt that punched through its exposed reactor. The resulting explosion lit up the battlefield.

"Second Royals, maintain cohesion," Kell’s voice carried across the shared comm channel, calm and authoritative. "No quarter to Capellan forces—crush their formation."

Kell pivoted her Regent, its ER large lasers slicing through the cockpit of a Trebuchet attempting to flee. The Capellan ‘Mech collapsed in a heap, ammunition detonating in a fiery plume. Her Regent’s Wolfhound Active Probe, Archangel ECM Suite, and Neutron Star CEWS worked in tandem, coordinating the battlefield network between Highlander and Falcon forces. The SLDF's precision and efficiency were unmatched.

"Khan Chistu," Jaffray called out, "I see your warriors are keeping up."

Chistu’s Turkina turned smoothly to intercept a charging Grasshopper. The Clan leader’s voice carried a hint of dry amusement as her machine fired a blistering combination of ER Large Lasers and Medium Pulse Lasers, vaporizing the Grasshopper’s leg and torso. "Did you expect otherwise, Colonel? Clan Jade Falcon was bred for this. And it seems the Wolves have remembered their purpose as well."

The Highlanders were holding their own against the Capellan assault, but the sheer volume of enemy reinforcements continued to press against their combined line. A Capellan Zeus broke through the Highlander left flank, charging toward the rear artillery units. Before Jaffray could react, a pair of Timber Wolves from the 2nd Royals intercepted it, their combined fire shredding the Zeus’s legs and toppling it like a felled tree.

"Nice shooting," Street muttered, his Shadow Hawk trading shots with a Capellan Griffin that refused to back down. The Griffin leapt to a higher vantage point, only for a Falcon Summoner to swat it out of the air with a Gauss slug that tore through its center torso. The wrecked 'Mech crashed to the ground, a plume of smoke and dust rising in its wake.

"Colonel," Captain Street called out urgently, "we’ve got more movement on the eastern ridge. Looks like another Capellan lance moving to outflank us!"

Jaffray checked her tactical display. The Capellan forces had deployed reserves, medium and heavy 'Mechs advancing to envelop the Highlanders’ right flank. She cursed under her breath. The Capellans were determined to grind them down.

"Second Royals," she barked, "we need reinforcements on the right flank. Now!"

Kell’s Regent turned sharply, its advanced sensors locking onto the eastern ridge. "Understood, Colonel Jaffray. Royals, shift to intercept. Anchor the line and hold fast."

The 2nd Royals reacted instantly, their disciplined maneuvers a testament to their Clan training. A Mad Dog dashed toward the Highlanders' right, its paired LRM racks launching a devastating salvo that broke up the advancing Capellan formation. Behind it, a Dire Wolf unleashed a torrent of firepower, obliterating a Capellan Orion in a single, overwhelming strike.

Jaffray’s Atlas pivoted, firing its autocannon into the thick of the enemy formation. A quick glance at her display showed the tide slowly turning. The combined forces were holding, but it was a grueling battle of attrition. For every Capellan 'Mech destroyed, more seemed to pour onto the battlefield.

Kell’s Regent stalked forward, its LAC/20 and lasers unleashing havoc on a huddled group of Capellan 'Mechs attempting to regroup. A Quickdraw reeled as its legs were obliterated by pinpoint Gauss fire, while a PPC bolt from Kell’s Snub-Nose reduced a Blackjack to molten slag.

"Khan Chistu," Jaffray said over the comms, "any sign of additional reinforcements? This fight’s far from over."

Chistu’s voice carried a note of grim determination. "The Falcons and the Second Royals will not falter, Colonel. If we die here, we die as warriors. But this world will not fall to the Capellans."

The battle raged on, the combined might of the Highlanders, Jade Falcons, and the SLDF Second Royals holding firm against the relentless waves of Capellan reinforcements. Fires raged across the battlefield as shattered BattleMechs lay strewn in smoldering heaps, the ground beneath them churned to dust and ash by artillery and energy weapons. Despite their coordinated efforts, the defenders were beginning to feel the strain.

"Colonel," Captain Street called over the comms, his Shadow Hawk weaving between rocks as it traded fire with a Capellan Vindicator. "These Capellans just keep coming. We can’t keep this up forever!"

Jaffray’s Atlas fired its autocannon, shredding a Cataphract that had ventured too close to the Highlander line. She could feel the tension rising among her forces, the weight of the battle pressing down on her shoulders. "Hold your ground, Captain," she ordered sharply. "The Highlanders don’t break. Not now, not ever!"

But even as she said it, her gaze flicked to her tactical display, noting another surge of Capellan reinforcements pushing from the eastern ridge. The Falcon and SLDF lines adjusted, pivoting to meet the threat, but the sheer number of enemies was taking its toll.

And then, over the comms, a hauntingly familiar sound broke through the chaos. A lone set of bagpipes played, their mournful wail piercing the din of battle and rolling across the battlefield like a thunderclap, invading allied and enemy communications alike.

"Bagpipes?" Captain Street’s voice was tinged with surprise. "Are those… Highlander reinforcements?"

Jaffray’s heart skipped a beat. The sound of bagpipes had long been a rallying cry for the Highlanders in battle, a herald of reinforcements or a call to arms. She activated her comms, switching channels to the Highlander command network. "Do we have reinforcements incoming?" she demanded.

"Negative, Colonel," came the reply from the artillery commander in the rear. "We’ve got nothing on the roster for reinforcements. Whatever that is… it’s not from us."

Confusion rippled through the Highlander ranks as the sound of the pipes grew louder, joined now by the roar of descending DropShips. The bagpipes were soon joined by a martial drumbeat, the kind that had once sent Highlander troops marching into battle centuries ago. The players were skilled, the notes both inspiring and haunting, and the ancient melody of "Alba an Àigh" carried the weight of centuries of warfare and sacrifice.

Jaffray frowned, scanning the skies. Her sensors picked up the incoming DropShips, their IFF signals identifying them as SLDF. The DropShips descended through the clouds, and as they broke through the thick gray layer, their cargo doors opened. From each vessel, BattleMechs dropped in a formation that stunned even the battle-hardened Highlanders. Painted in SLDF green, their surfaces bore intricate bands of blue, green, and black tartan along their arms, torsos, and legs. Each machine was marked with the insignia of the legendary Black Watch, the Star League's most elite and storied regiment.

Captain Street gasped as his sensors locked onto the serial number of the lead 'Mech: HGN732B-BW12681. He felt his heart skip a beat. "Colonel," he said, his voice hushed with disbelief. "That Highlander… that’s Elizabeth Hazen’s 'Mech!"

Jaffray’s brow furrowed. "Impossible," she muttered. "How could it be here? That 'Mech was lost when the Star League fell."

There was no time for questions, as the Black Watch opened fire mid-drop, their weapons raining devastation down on the Capellan forces below. Gauss rifles, PPCs, lasers, and autocannons carved through the enemy lines with terrifying precision. As they landed, the bagpipes reached a triumphant crescendo, the speakers mounted on the 'Mechs blaring at maximum volume.

Leading the charge was Melissa Hazen herself. As she landed, her 'Mech executed a flawless Highlander Burial, the crushing blow of her 'Mech’s legs obliterating a Capellan medium 'Mech below her - whatever it had been, no one could tell now.

The Highlanders, stunned by the sudden arrival and the display of martial prowess, rallied as the Black Watch tore into the Capellan ranks. Jaffray’s comms erupted with chatter, her troops trying to make sense of what they were seeing.

"This can’t be real," one MechWarrior muttered. "The Black Watch… they’re supposed to be gone."

"Real or not," Jaffray snapped, "they’re fighting for us. Highlanders, regroup and press the attack! Let’s show the Capellans what happens when they challenge us!"

Melissa Hazen’s voice came over the open channel, calm but resolute. "Colonel Jaffray, the Black Watch stands with you. Let us finish this fight together."

Jaffray hesitated only a moment before replying. "Understood, General. Highlanders, give them hell!"

The battlefield was transformed. The combined firepower of the Highlanders, Jade Falcons, Second Royals, and the Black Watch crushed the Capellan forces. The enemy line broke under the relentless assault, their remaining Mechs retreating in disarray.

As the dust settled, Jaffray’s Atlas approached Hazen’s Highlander, her curiosity overcoming her disbelief. The tartan-clad 'Mech turned to face her, its weapons lowered, and for a moment, the two stood in silent acknowledgment of each other.

"You have some explaining to do, General," Jaffray said at last, her tone a mix of suspicion and awe.

Hazen’s voice came over the comms, steady and unwavering. "In time, Colonel. For now, let the legend of the Black Watch remind the Inner Sphere that some things are eternal."

Jaffray nodded slowly. The battlefield was eerily quiet in the aftermath of the Black Watch's devastating arrival. Smoke rose in thick columns from the broken hulks of Capellan BattleMechs, their forces routed and scattered. The bagpipes had faded, leaving only the crackling of fires and the distant rumble of aerospace engines as SLDF and Highlander aerospace fighters secured the skies.

Jaffray’s comm crackled to life, interrupting her thoughts. "Colonel," Captain Street’s voice came through, still tinged with disbelief. "I’m picking up a Highlander IFF in the Falcon ranks… what the hell?"

Jaffray froze, her brow furrowing. "Another Highlander? Impossi—" She cut herself off as her sensors confirmed the signal. The 'Mech was striding toward them from the Jade Falcon lines, its green-and-gold paint accented with Clan markings but bearing the unmistakable design of the Highlander - a IIC.

As the machine approached, Jaffray’s gut twisted. The Highlander IIC moved with familiarity, its gait and bearing unmistakable to a seasoned Highlander like herself. But it wasn’t just the machine—it was the name now appearing on her tactical display.

Tara Campbell.

Jaffray’s comms opened automatically, her voice sharp with disbelief and anger. "Tara?! What in God’s name are you doing here? How—how can you be with them? You—" She faltered, her voice cracking with emotion. "You swore an oath to fight to the last. To protect the Highlanders. And now you stand with the Falcons?"

The Highlander IIC came to a halt, its torso twisting slightly to face Jaffray’s Atlas. A calm, familiar voice came through the comms. "I have not forgotten my oaths, Cadha," Tara Campbell said, her tone steady but filled with a quiet sadness. "I never will."

Jaffray’s anger boiled over. "You abandoned us! You surrendered to Alaric Ward on Terra! How can you possibly justify this?"

Before Tara could respond, a new voice interjected—smooth, commanding, and unmistakably Clan. "Colonel Jaffray," Khan Stephanie Chistu’s voice came through, her tone measured. "You misunderstand the circumstances of Tara Campbell’s capture. She did not abandon your people. She sacrificed herself to ensure your survival."

"Spare me your Clan justifications," Jaffray snapped, her anger undimmed. "She should have fought to the last, as all Highlanders are sworn to do!"

"Tara did fight," Chistu countered firmly. "She fought with honor and bravery until it became clear that further resistance would mean the complete destruction of the Highlanders on Terra. Alaric Ward gave her a choice—her life in exchange for safe passage for your people. She accepted because she valued the lives of her people over her own pride."

Jaffray’s jaw clenched, but before she could respond, Melissa Hazen’s voice broke through. "Colonel, I have known Tara for years - since the days of the Republic. Her bravery during the defense of Terra is the stuff of legend, as well you know. If I had been in her place, I would have made the same choice. And if you trust me enough to stand beside me in battle, you can trust me on this—she has not betrayed the Highlanders. Not now, not ever."

Jaffray’s anger began to waver, though her voice was still tight with emotion. "And how do you explain her… joining the Falcons? How can she stand among the same warriors who destroyed Terra?"

Tara’s voice came back, softer now but filled with conviction. "Because they are not the same Falcons who followed Malvina Hazen. These warriors are rebuilding—rediscovering their honor, after cutting out the cancer that was the Mongol Doctrine. Khan Chistu brought me here as her bondsman, but she gave me more than a new place. She gave me a chance to teach these Falcons what it means to fight like Highlanders. To fight with discipline, courage, and honor."

Khan Chistu’s voice returned, this time with a surprising warmth. "Colonel Jaffray, Tara is not just my bondsman. She is my teacher and my equal in many ways. She has taught my Clan to remember the old ways, to fight with the honor that Malvina discarded. And I will not deny it—Tara is far more than a warrior to me. She is my partner, my confidant. My lover."

The battlefield seemed to go silent at Chistu’s admission. Jaffray stared at the Highlander IIC, the weight of her emotions threatening to overwhelm her. "You’re… happy with them?" she finally asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I am," Tara said, her tone soft but resolute. "And I believe I am doing more good here than I ever could have imagined. The Falcons needed to remember what honor looks like, and I have helped them find it again. But that does not mean I have forgotten who I am, or where I come from. I am still a Highlander, Cadha. I always will be."

Jaffray’s hands trembled on her controls, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. Finally, she let out a long, shaky breath. "I don’t understand it. But if the General and… and the Khan both vouch for you, I’ll accept it. For now." Her voice hardened. "But if you betray us, Tara—if you betray the Highlanders—I will end you myself. Do you understand me?"

Tara’s voice was calm, unwavering. "I would not expect anything less from a fellow daughter of Northwind."

Jaffray nodded slowly. "Then let’s finish this fight. Together."

As the Highlanders, Jade Falcons, SLDF, and Black Watch prepared to advance once more, Jaffray couldn’t help but glance back at Tara’s Highlander IIC. The sight of her former leader standing proudly among the Clans was a bitter pill to swallow, but for now... there was a battle to win.

[knowledgeatbargainprices]

Must.... Reduce... Focus...

I got a piece of equipment I've been wanting for a while: The Mamiya 645 to Sony Focal Reducer. My Ebay alert told me that Kipon was having a HUGE sale, and even though it was still pricey, I decided to bite the bullet.

What this adapter does is squeeze the lens' 645 image projection closer to the full frame sensor size, so instead of the crop factor being 1, it is 0.7. Which means my 80mm lens is 56mm, and my f/1.9 is an f/1.3.

When I got it, I was super excited. After all, shooting medium format digital was something I'd heard all the hype about and was excited for, having shot a lot of medium format film as well as digital.

One thing that was unexpected for me though was how many bad shots I ended up with.

Yes, you heard that correctly. Bad.

But doesn't shallow DOF cure all? Isn't that the cheat code all the "real photographers" chastise beginners for over-relying on?

Well, it turns out, no. Or at least, not for me.

Take this shot , for instance. I was excited for this shot. I think it's a neat composition. framing the angel with the hedges. Foreground has a distance to the angel too, so I can really lean on that DOF to hopefully de-emphasize the white truck in the foreground.

But it just doesn't work. I kinda hate this shot. The out of focus parts are more distracting than they are helpful.

So in conclusion, this focal reducer is not a magic bullet. In fact, I think composing with super shallow DOF is more difficult than composing without it. It can sure do some cool things, but it's another lens I'm going to have to learn.

[avaantares]

"But things need to be upgraded to HD because old films look blurry on modern TVs!"

It's almost always the transfer that looks bad, not the film itself. If you go back to the days before home video, when films were shot specifically to be shown on theatre screens rather than compressed down to VHS or DVD (and boy howdy is there a photography difference between the two eras, because once studios started making money on video releases, they stopped making use of the full theatre screen), the first-generation film prints themselves are actually remarkably crisp! What people are used to seeing is bad scans of prints of those films, because when they were converted into home video they were scanned at a lower resolution than actual 35mm (or anamorphic 70mm).

Watching a 35mm print of a classic film like Casablanca on a 33' theatre screen, I was able to spot individual hairs and threads on the actors' costumes. Watching that film on DVD that was digitized from a VHS scan of a second-generation film print, on the other hand, is like looking through a blob of Vaseline. This is why optically remastered film releases were so important -- because they went back to the original film masters, rather than prints of prints of prints, to do the video transfer. (Whereas "digitally remastered" often means "we didn't bother with the masters, we just ran it through a sharpness filter so we can charge you more.")

It's worth noting that the films were that crisp and sharp, but still have atmospheric film grain. Film was an incredibly sensitive medium, and it wasn't until around 2010 that digital camera sensors caught up to the fineness of film (which is why large-format advertising photography continued to be shot on film for years after everything else shifted to digital, because film photos could be enlarged many times more without losing sharpness, while a digital photo would turn into pixels). On properly-transferred film, you get the same vintage vibe without it being a blurry mess.

I am in love w the way pre 2000s films have that hazy feel to them. hd honestly kills the vibe

[rohan9794]

Sticker Labelling Machine: The Complete Guide to Smart Product Labeling

What is a Sticker Labelling Machine?

A sticker labelling machine is a device that applies pre-printed or blank self-adhesive labels (commonly called "stickers") onto various products like bottles, jars, boxes, and containers. These machines offer precision, speed, and customization for diverse packaging requirements.

They eliminate the inefficiencies of manual labeling and ensure that labels are applied straight, bubble-free, and uniformly across thousands of items daily.

Types of Sticker Labelling Machines

1. Manual Sticker Labelling Machines

Best for small-scale production

Cost-effective and simple to operate

Ideal for startups and cottage industries

2. Semi-Automatic Sticker Labelling Machines

Operator loads the product manually; machine applies the label

Perfect for medium-volume operations

Common in the food, personal care, and small pharmaceutical sectors

3. Automatic Sticker Labelling Machines

Fully automated with conveyor belt integration

High-speed labeling with minimal human intervention

Used for mass production and industrial packaging lines

4. Double Side Sticker Labelling Machines

Labels both the front and back sides of containers simultaneously

Excellent for cosmetics, shampoos, and cleaning products

5. Wrap Around Sticker Labelling Machines

Designed for cylindrical bottles and jars

Applies a full 360° label

6. Top and Bottom Labelling Machines

Apply stickers to top and/or bottom surfaces of flat objects like boxes, trays, and pouches

Industrial Applications of Sticker Labelling Machines

Pharmaceutical Industry

Applies labels with dosage, expiry date, QR codes

Ensures regulatory compliance and barcode readability

Food and Beverage

Bottle and jar labeling for soft drinks, sauces, honey, and oils

Labels withstand refrigeration and moisture exposure

Cosmetic Industry

High-end product labeling for creams, serums, and perfumes

Requires elegant, smudge-free, and durable finishes

Chemical and Pesticide Industry

Labels resistant to harsh chemicals, UV, and abrasion

Logistics and Warehousing

Barcode labels, shipping tags, inventory stickers

Key Features of a Modern Sticker Labelling Machine

1. High-Speed Operation

Capable of labeling 100 to 400 units per minute, depending on model

2. Advanced Sensor Systems

Detects product presence and label gaps for precise placement

3. Touchscreen HMI and PLC Controls

Easy configuration, error detection, and real-time production monitoring

4. Adjustable for Multiple Products

Handles various diameters, shapes, and label sizes

5. Coding and Printing Integration

Supports batch coding, barcodes, QR codes, manufacturing/expiry dates

6. Stainless Steel Construction

Food and pharma-grade SS304/SS316 material ensures hygiene and durability

Advantages of Using Sticker Labelling Machines

Professional Finish: Ensures brand consistency across all units

Enhanced Productivity: Reduces labeling time drastically

Cost Efficiency: Cuts down on labor and label waste

Minimal Downtime: Easy to maintain and calibrate

Customizable: Adapts to various products and packaging formats

Regulatory Compliance: Meets FDA, FSSAI, ISO standards for packaging