Phase One Announces the IQ3 100MP Trichromatic Digital Back, XF System Feature Update 4

In a pair of announcements today, Phase One has introduced a new medium format digital back and a feature update to the XF camera system. The IQ3 100MP Trichromatic incorporates new color technology for authentic reproduction combined with 101 megapixels of fine, high-resolution detail. Feature Update 4 for the XF camera system focuses on focus control and accuracy, as well as new tools for new possibilities.

IQ3 100MP Trichromatic Digital Back

In a collaboration with Sony, Phase One has created a digital medium format back that excels at color quality and definition, allowing for what the company claims are renditions more authentic than ever.

The Trichromatic back features all the same specifications as the current IQ3 100MP with a couple exceptions. First, the Trichromatic has a base ISO of just 35, a new low for medium format CMOS sensors. Second, it incorporates new Bayer filter color technology aided by its working relationship with Sony.

We are looking forward to getting our hands on the Trichromatic to test it against the current IQ3 100MP for further analysis. Stay tuned for that in the coming time.

The IQ3 100MP Trichromatic digital back has a retail price of $44,990. Combined with the XF camera body, a free choice of any Schneider Kreuznach Blue Ring lens, and a five-year warranty, the price is $49,990. You can learn more on the Phase One Trichromatic webpage.

XF Feature Update 4

In the ongoing quest to continually improve their XF camera system, Phase One has released a new feature update (also compatible with the newly announced Trichromatic digital back). Here’s what’s new:

Autofocus and Recompose - The Autofocus and Recompose mode enables the photographer to focus on a subject and recompose the frame while retaining the desired focus point.

Zoom to Focus - In connection with the new Autofocus and Recompose mode, Zoom to Focus allows photographers to verify the focus by providing a dynamic image preview option in the IQ Digital Back, automatically enlarging captured images to the point of focus.

Focus Trim Tool - This automated calibration tool provides a built-in analysis of the focus trim calibration conditions, paired with a dedicated focus chart, ensuring Auto Focus trimming is done with complete confidence.

Focus Nudge - Any dial on the XF can be assigned to accurately step lens focus to minute degrees. Used together with Live View, this new feature provides an incredible degree of precision for control.

Automatic Focus Stack Calculator - This tool complements the existing Focus Stacking feature by evaluating focusing distances, sensor resolution, and aperture, then automatically suggesting the optimal number of frames that should be captured. This ensures superior image quality in the results.

Profoto Remote Trigger - In addition to the existing wireless control of Profoto lights from the XF Camera System, it has now been made possible to shoot the XF Camera System using the Profoto Air Remote as a wireless remote trigger.

Vibration Analysis - This visual feedback feature shows the user a display if any vibrations incurred during the capture process.

Infinite Vibration Delay - An expansion of the XF Camera System’s built-in ability to wait for optimal conditions before releasing the shutter, Infinite Vibration Delay now allows the camera to continue waiting indefinitely in a state of hibernation for calm, stable, and vibration-free conditions.

Additional features and improvements include control for visual displays with Capture Analysis Popup control as well as the ability to trigger the Electronic Shutter using an external shutter release, and several other system improvements.

Software feature updates are free for XF system owners. More details can be found on the Feature Update 4 webpage.

There’s also an optional hardware upgrade that Phase One is offering for XF cameras that switches out the Honeybee Autofocus Platform (HAP) to a new HAP-2. HAP-2 improves autofocus abilities in low light and low-contrast environments. Phase One also says that HAP-2 will provide a “ready platform for future growth.” Hopefully that means you won’t be needing more physical upgrades every couple years to stay current. The hardware update costs $890 and should be arranged with your local Phase One dealer.