I'm not a tech guy but can someone tell me why the new P1 backs (and backs from other manufacturers) don't have a video output of some sort (like hdmi) for external viewing monitors? Ok,
Live view issue still not fixed (at least not to the level to call it a versatile/ solved problem live view solution), hmm.. It's unfortunate and sad when you think about the direction in which this market is evolving. Absolutely no doubts about that- it's target are wealthy amateurs and for anyone trying to make a buck out of photography, this is bad news. Sure, some pro guys will buy this, probably some will buy it even tough they can't justify the expense.
another thought- new P1 products make me think what would make a digital back a REVOLUTIONARY product. Not just another step forward, but something ground shaking..something REALLY useful.
- change the sensor size to 6x7 so that every MF shooter is happy (6x4.5, 6x7, 6x6)
- focus stacking (another thing which hasn't been announced.. if there's a focus confirmation, why can't there be a focus stacking option?)
- live view, which is obvious
- built in touchscreen which makes it possible to point the area / object which should be in focus (maybe it is impossible to realize it with current camera body- oh wait I forgot there is no real-deal pro camera up to current MFDB specs and demands in Mamiya / P1 lineup)
- aforementioned video port
- LONG exposure capability (huh, it wouldn't even be revolutionary since there is a P45+ back, actually current specs in this department are a step backwards..)
- high ISO capability is even more obvious (to the extent it souldn't even be mentioned here..)
Is all of this really, FOR REAL an impossible list of features to implement?
People can tell me that there are no perfect solutions and it aaall depends on what one needs. Well, yeah, that's because what that messed up MFDB market made us believe and be aware of..It's a neverending mantra of trade-offs, impossible to deal with obstacles, hourses for courses etc etc. I wonder if there are many motion shooters which would have big reasons to moan about Red Epic.. And it's all about listening to your customers, establishing a dialogue and confronting the matters. Sad truth is that pro shooters are not the customers to listen to and MFDB developers real customers can't tell what they need except the fact that the gear they will buy for kazillion $ should 'be the best on the market'.
All of this is frustrating and seriously makes me think about selling all this MF crap and going for a Canikon. It's not about the new iteration, but the development direction which is not likely to change any time soon- I guess there won't be times in foreseeable future when you can shoot your MF gear without thinking about it's limits, drawbacks and all that crap. And yes, I'm tired of being limited and of waiting for a SOLUTION.