Even in the midst of a pandemic, photo gear manufacturers and software companies have managed to consistently announce new releases. Many of theses unveilings centered around “the smallest and most compact” lenses and medium-format cameras to hybrid models and long-awaited, video-focused full frames. The following are a few announcements to take note of from earlier this week—the Canon EOS C70 game-changer, Profoto’s A10 speedlight with built-in AirX Bluetooth-enabled sync technology, and Portrait AI from ON1.

Canon’s EOS C70 Cinema Camera is a Game-Changer

It’s been nine years since Canon introduced the EOS C300, the company’s first EOS cinema camera. Now Canon has now taken the next step with the compact EOS C70. This 4K digital cinema camera is the first EOS cinema camera utilizing an RF lens mount and is built around the next-generation 4K super 35mm dual gain output sensor. The latter promises 16-plus stops of total dynamic range as well as low noise. There’s also a built-in 10-stop ND filter and the camera features Canon’s Dual Pixel AF.

Despite the C70’s relatively small size—it weighs just 2.6 pounds and measures approximately 5.1 x 6.2 x 4.5 inches—the camera offers a long list of features and options. Capable of shooting 4K DCI and UHD, the C70 can also capture 2K DCI and FHD, all at 12-120fps. Dual card slots support UHS-II SD cards, proxy recording and a sub-recording mode that can capture two different codecs at the same time.

Highly customizable, the C70 is equipped with 13 assignable buttons on the body and two multi-function control dials. The 3.5-inch touchscreen provides additional convenience with direct touch access to everything from sensor mode, frame rate, vectorscope, Zebras and codecs to ISO, white balance and more.

At the same time, Canon announced the EF-EOS R 0.71x mount adapter for full-frame EF-lens compatibility. The camera is scheduled to ship in November for $5,499; the adapter should be available in December for $600. For full specs, visit the website.

Profoto A10 Speedlight Unveiled

Profoto just added a new model to its on-camera flash line (which includes the Profoto A1 and the Profoto A1X). With the Profoto A10 you get almost identical features that make up the A1X: it has the same round flash head design, a big display for easily changing settings, 76Ws of max power with 9 stops of control, a recycle time between 0.05s and 1s, HSS support, TTL support, and a rechargeable battery that promises up to 450 full power flashes per charge.

The big news for the A10—and what sets it apart from the A1X—is its built- in AirX Bluetooth-enabled sync technology. With the free Profoto app, users get the same user interface as the A10 on their smart device and can adjust settings remotely. This includes changing channels, groups and even zooming the A10’s head. Using the app is an easy way to update firmware as well.

As expected, A10 users have access to a modeling light and snap on magnetic modifiers. The included rechargeable lithium ion battery provides up to 450 full-power flashes. And the A10 recycles as fast as one second at full power. A clear and intuitive user interface makes it easy to use this flash right out of the box. Available for Canon, Nikon, Fuji and Sony, the A10 costs $1,095 ($1,195 for the off-camera kits). For more info, check out Profoto’s website.

ON1 Portrait AI Released

On the software front, there’s a ton of news from ON1, including the release of Portrait AI. Available as a standalone, plug-in or part of ON1 Photo RAW 2021, Portrait AI automatically identifies faces and makes short work of retouching portraits. Loads of upgrades are coming in ON1 Photo RAW 2021 late October, including a Smart Organize mode, a new non-destructive healing brush, camera based presets and much more. In addition to both programs’ current plug-in compatibility (Affinity Photo, to name one), ON1 plans to add Capture One to the list.

For mobile devices, check out ON1 Photo RAW Mobile with its new masking features and long list of effects and filters. The app is free with in-app purchases available for ON1 360.

Free trial downloads are available. Pricing starts at $80 for ON1 Portrait AI (standalone and plug-in), with various pre-order, upgrade and bundle options for ON1 Photo RAW. For detailed information, go to the website.