Sony launches mirrorless full-frame camera in Cebu

Cebuano photography hobbyists and pros trooped to the Cebu Trade Hall 2 of SM City Cebu on May 12 for the Cebu launch of Sony’s a7III mirrorless full-frame camera.

Announced globally in February this year, the camera is known for setting new full-frame camera specifications and standards, combining capability and versatility.

At the Cebu launch was Sony Philippines Inc. sales director Sunao Sakata, together with professional photographers Jerome Ascano and Pilar Trigo Bonnin. Ascano, who specializes in sports photography, headed a basic workshop on the hurdles of shooting sporting events. Bonnin, who specializes in portrait and events photography, also led a workshop on basic techniques with studio lights.

Both photographers shared their opinions on the a7III, saying that it works very well with their respective shooting styles and that its functional features are a boon for any photographer, professional or amateur.

The a7III is the successor to the 2014-announced a7II. It shares many features with the a7II, a7R III and a9 models, and is positioned as an “all around shooter” for practically any occasion. More information on the camera is hosted on Sony’s official online channels

Yahoo’s “Squirrel”

Last week, Yahoo began testing a messaging-oriented application that’s aimed at organizing and engaging in private group chats with friends, workmates and family members.

Named “Squirrel,” the application is bannered by a “Main Room” section from where members of a group can “meet up” and have group conversations. Members can also initiate one-on-one chat sessions with other members, and have the option to communicate using photos, documents and/or website links.

Available in versions for Android and iOS, the application currently runs by invite-only – which means that one can only use the app if he/she gets an invite to join a group by someone he/she knows who already has the app. More information on the app is available on Yahoo’s official online channels.

Google’s “Lookout”

Google recently unveiled a new application that’s intended to help the visually impaired.

Named “Lookout,” the app helps people with visual disabilities by issuing audio cues about their surroundings – for example: if it “detects” an exit sign in a room or if there’s a person or an object nearby. The cues are based on advanced image-identifying software and camera-anchored tech.

The app can be configured to help its users do various tasks as well, like if it were set for “chores,” it can inform a user where the kitchen sink or where the dishwasher is.

Google has yet not given a specific launch date for the app, but plans to make it available later this year.