Canon News, Nikon News and What's New at The-Digital-Picture.com (Excluding Deals)

First Looks at Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS STM Lens Image Quality

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:13:09 CDT

ISO 12233 chart image quality samples and vignetting test results are now available on the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens review page.

Compare this modestly upgraded lens to its predecessor, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens.

Update: 18-55mm STM Lens Distortion test results are also now available.

Yahoo! to Acquire Tumblr for $1.1 Billion

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:07:04 CDT

From Yahoo:

SUNNYVALE, Calif. & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Yahoo! Inc. (NASDAQ: YHOO) and Tumblr announced today that they have reached a definitive agreement for Yahoo! to acquire Tumblr.

Per the agreement and our promise not to screw it up, Tumblr will be independently operated as a separate business. David Karp will remain CEO. The product, service and brand will continue to be defined and developed separately with the same Tumblr irreverence, wit, and commitment to empower creators.

With more than 300 million monthly unique visitors and 120,000 signups every day, Tumblr is one of the fastest-growing media networks in the world. Tumblr sees 900 posts per second (!) and 24 billion minutes spent on site each month. On mobile, more than half of Tumblr's users are using the mobile app and do an average of 7 sessions per day. Its tremendous popularity and engagement among creators, curators and audiences of all ages brings a significant new community of users to the Yahoo! network. The combination of Tumblr+Yahoo! is expected to grow Yahoo!'s audience by 50 percent to more than a billion monthly visitors, and to grow traffic by approximately 20 percent.

The deal offers unique opportunities for both companies. Tumblr can deploy Yahoo!'s personalization technology and search infrastructure to help its users discover creators, bloggers, and content they'll love. In turn, Tumblr brings 50 billion blog posts (and 75 million more arriving each day) to Yahoo!'s media network and search experiences. The two companies will also work together to create advertising opportunities that are seamless and enhance the user experience.

Total consideration is approximately $1.1 billion, substantially all of which is payable in cash.

"Tumblr is redefining creative expression online," said Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer. "On many levels, Tumblr and Yahoo! couldn't be more different, but, at the same time, they couldn't be more complementary. Yahoo is the Internet's original media network. Tumblr is the Internet's fastest-growing media frenzy. Both companies are homes for brands - established and emerging. And, fundamentally, Tumblr and Yahoo! are both all about users, design, and finding surprise and inspiration amidst the everyday."

"I've long held the view that in all things art and design, you can feel the spirit and demeanor of the creator. That's why it was no surprise to me that David Karp is one of the nicest, most empathetic people I've ever met. He's also one of the most perceptive, capable entrepreneurs I've ever worked with," continued Mayer. "David's respect for Tumblr's community of creators is awesome. I'm absolutely delighted to have him join our team."

David Karp, CEO of Tumblr, addressed the Tumblr community, "Our team isn't changing. Our roadmap isn't changing. And our mission — to empower creators to make their best work and get it in front of the audience they deserve — certainly isn't changing. But we're elated to have the support of Yahoo! and their team who share our dream to make the Internet the ultimate creative canvas. Tumblr gets better faster with more resources to draw from."

The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the second half of the year.

Weekend Recap for May 12 - 18, 2013

Sun, 19 May 2013 13:50:36 CDT

"This is The-Digital-Picture.com's Weekend Recap for the week ending May 18th, 2013

In the news...

On Tuesday, Nikon announced their fastest mirrorless lens yet – the 1 Nikkor 32mm f/1.2. The new lens features a silent wave motor (SWM) and a manual focus ring, a first for 1-series mirrorless lens. The lens is scheduled to be available in June.

Also on Tuesday, Canon announced the development of a new picture style called “Video Camera X-series Look.” The new picture style is aimed at video shooters and captures video with lower contrast for easier color grading in post.

And to wrap up Tuesday’s news, Canon officially announced the long-awaited Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens with built-in 1.4x Extender. When the lens hits the shelves later this month, it will carry an MSRP of $11,799.00. We have one on pre-order and are anxious to see how it performs.

On Thursday, Think Tank Photo announced the Logistics Manager 30 rolling camera bag. The Logistics Manager 30 features over 3,500 cubic inches of storage, robust carry handles, and lockable security zippers. And, if you’re interested in one of Think Tank Photo’s high-quality camera bags (including the Logistics Manager 30), use the links on our site to receive a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more.

In site news and reviews...

On Monday, Bryan posted his review of the Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens. The publication of this review was significantly delayed because of the difficulties involved in obtaining an optimal copy of the lens. However, once a good copy was obtained, the lens produced results with impressive image quality. As the Tamron 24-70mm VC is unique in this focal range with built-in stabilization, it will certainly prove useful to those who are successful in obtaining the best of what Tamron has to offer.

Also this week, we’ve added drop-down menus to the site’s menu bar to allow for faster access to the site’s most popular content. We hope you enjoy the small change.

And, for our deal of the week…

On Saturday, we posted a deal from DigitalRev where you could get a Canon EF 70-300mm IS USM Lens for $379.00. That’s more than a 40% savings off the normal retail price.

This has been the The-Digital-Picture.com’s Weekend Recap. Thanks for listening, and as always, happy shooting!"

LensRentals Illustrates How to Remove Dust From Your Lens

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:35:16 CDT

Roger Cicala from Lens Rentals has published a how-to guide for removing dust from the following lenses:

Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 AF-S (Many Nikon “D” primes)
Canon 17-55 f/2.8 IS (Canon 24-105, 24-70 f/4 IS, 24-70 f/2.8 II)
Canon 85mm f/1.2 L
Canon 85mm f/1.8 (Canon 100m f/2)
Canon 70-200 f/2.8 NON IS (Canon 70-200 f/2.8 IS I and II)
Canon 100-400 IS L (Canon 28-300 IS L)

From LensRentals Blog:

"I [Roger] get asked about 15 times a week, 'How can I get the dust out of my lens?' The right answer is you don’t. All lenses have dust in them and it doesn’t affect the images at all 99% of the time. Even if you clean it all out, it will be back after you use the lens a few times.

There are occasionally times that large dust specs very near the rear element are visible in an image, though. There also is the very real issue of resale value; a dusty lens tends to bring a lower price than one without much dust. The right answer in these cases is “send it in for factory service, they’ll disassemble it and clean it.” Doing it yourself is risky.

After I give all of those answers, a lot of people tell me they have an old lens no longer under warranty, not worth the cost of sending it in for factory cleaning, and they are really handy and want to do it themselves. For those people, we’ve put up this post showing how to get dust out of some fairly easy to reach locations."

See Roger's full guide for cleaning your lens. Be sure to read all the warnings carefully before trying this yourself.

Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate for Photoshop CS6 Now Available

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:13:55 CDT

From Adobe:

Camera Raw 8.1 and DNG Converter 8.1 Release Candidates are now available. This release includes support for HiDPI capable displays, bug fixes, new camera support, and new lens profiles.

Photoshop CS6 customers traditionally have received camera updates through Camera Raw 7.x releases. This is the first time that we are providing camera support through a version of the camera raw plug-in that is a whole version number greater than the version of Camera Raw that shipped with a specific version of Photoshop. (Photoshop CS6 shipped with ACR7 and now we’re providing support to CS6 with ACR8.) As mentioned here, this change allows us to be consistent with our past policy of providing raw support for currently shipping products. However, when ACR8 is hosted by Photoshop CS6, it will not offer any of the new features described in Photoshop CC marketing materials for ACR8.

New Camera Support in the Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate

Hasselblad H5D-60
Olympus PEN E-P5
Olympus PEN E-PL6
Phase One IQ260*
Pentax Ricoh GR
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G6
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LF1

* denotes preliminary support

New Lens Profile Support in the Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate

Lens Name	Lens Mount
Canon PowerShot G1 X	Canon
Canon PowerShot G15	Canon
Hasselblad HCD 4.8/24	Hasselblad
Nikon Coolpix A	Nikon
Nikon Coolpix P330	Nikon
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 80-400 mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR	Nikon
HD Pentax-D FA645 Macro 90mm F2.8ED AW SR	Pentax
HD Pentax-DA 560mm F5.6ED AW	Pentax
Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A013	Canon, Sigma
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C013	Nikon
Sigma 19mm F2.8 DN A013	Olympus, Sony
Sigma 30mm F2.8 DN A013	Olympus, Sony
Zeiss Apo Sonna T* 2/135 ZE	Canon
Zeiss Apo Sonnar T* 2/135 ZF.2	Nikon
Zeiss Touit 1.8/32	Sony
Zeiss Touit 2.8/12	Sony

Release Notes

Camera Raw 8.1 RC includes support for HiDPI capable displays.

Getting Started

Download the Camera Raw 8.1 and/or DNG Converter 8.1 release candidates
Quit out of Photoshop CS6 and Adobe Bridge.
Open the download file and follow the on-screen instructions.
Ask questions or share your feedback in the Camera Raw forum

Download

Camera Raw 8.1 Release Candidate - Windows | Macintosh
DNG Converter 8.1 Release Candidate - Windows | Macintosh

B&H carries Adobe Photoshop CS6.

Think Tank Photo Releases Logistics Manager 30 Rolling Camera Bag

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:07:40 CDT

From Think Tank Photo:

We just released a new version of our popular large capacity rolling camera bag, the Logistics Manager 30. The rolling case’s endless interior layout options adapt to numerous equipment combinations and help manage all of the logistics of transporting and using a lot of gear while on location.

Its roomy internal dimensions of 13.75”W x 27.5”H x 8.25 – 10”D (35 x 70 x 21 – 25.5cm) allow it to hold multiple combinations of cameras and lenses, lighting gear such as strobes and reflectors, and accessories of all kinds.

Key Features

Holds and transports all types of gear on location.
Organizer side pocket for various equipment.
Interior pockets for extra organization.
Two clear accessory bags included for miscellaneous items.
Quickly deployable roller handle.
Large front organizer pocket.
Expandable front pocket for large items.
TSA-approved main zipper lock for added security.
Tripod cup, strap, and rain cover included.

The Logistics Manager 30 answers a question often asked by working photographers: ‘How can I transport all of my gear into the field, have quick access to it, and secure it from loss or theft? We took the design and engineering principles we pioneered in our line-up of award-winning rolling camera bags and applied them to this very roomy pro photographer logistics solution.

Specifications

Internal Dimensions: 13.75”W x 27.5”H x 8.25 – 10”D (35 x 70 x 21 – 25.5cm)
External Dimensions: 15.75”W x 30”H x 11.5”D (40 x 76 x 29cm)
Weight: 16 – 20 lbs (7.3 – 9.1 kg) (depending on accessories used)

Note: Use the links from this site to get a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Think Tank Photo!

Metz Announces Soft Box Accessories

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:36:28 CDT

From Metz:

The extensive range of Metz accessories has just been expanded with the addition of new extremely useful components. Both amateur and professional photographers alike can benefit from the versatile soft boxes which are now available in stores. The Metz soft boxes are perfect for product, portrait and passport photographs. They swathe the subject in soft and even mood lighting. The practical soft boxes can be folded up and stowed in a carry bag which is included as standard – making transportation easy. The following models are available: Easy soft boxes ESB 60-60 and ESB 40-40, Mini soft boxes SB 30-20, SB 22-16 and SB 18-15 as well as Mini Octagon soft boxes SB 34-34, SB 20-20 and SB 15-15. The flash unit holder FGH 40-60 is perfect for attach-ing Easy soft boxes to flash units and for achieving the optimal positioning of the air-cushioned lighting tripods LS-247 and LS-200.

Soft mood lighting with Easy soft boxes and accessories

Easy soft boxes ESB 60-60 and ESB 40-40, which can rotate by 360°, are perfect for smaller product and portrait photographs. They ensure soft, even mood lighting and can easily be attached to a compact flash unit using the flash unit holder FGH 40-60. The flash unit holder can in turn be attached to the air-cushioned lighting tripods LS-247 and LS-200 for optimal positioning with respect to the photo subject. For even more precise lighting control, a front and rear diffuser is also included with the Easy soft boxes as standard. Thanks to the supplied adapter, both Easy soft boxes can also easily be connected to all studio flash units with a Bowens-compatible bayonet. After the photo shoot the Easy soft boxes can be folded up conveniently by the user and stowed in the supplied carry bag.

Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes for soft light

The Mini soft boxes SB 30-20, SB 22-16 and SB 18-15 as well as the Mini Octagon soft boxes SB 34-34, SB 20-20 and SB 15-15 are all ideal for smaller product, passport and portrait photographs. Photographers can use the folding Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes to swathe their subjects in soft and harmonic lighting. The Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes can very easily be attached to any compact flash unit using a Velcro strap. The integrated rear diffusers within the Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes allow for even more creative light diffusion. After the photo session, the Mini and Mini Octagon soft boxes can be stowed and transported in their practical accompanying bags.

Quality by Metz

Metz develops products which satisfy the standards of tomorrow, today. The use of advanced technology in conjunction with innovative functions ensures that Metz products can always be relied upon. Our know-how and experience also guarantee technical perfection for the future.

Technical specifications for Easy soft boxes with accessories

Easy soft box ESB 60-60

Dimensions: 60 × 60 cm
Includes front and rear diffuser and carry bag

Easy soft box ESB 40-40

Dimensions: 40 × 40 cm
Includes front and rear diffuser and carry bag

Flash unit holder FGH 40-60

Adapter between compact flash units and Easy soft boxes
Adjustable flash shoe height
Can be attached to Metz lighting tripods LS-247 and LS-200

Lighting tripod LS-247

Maximum height: 247 cm / load: 3 kg
With air cushioning

Lighting tripod LS-200

Maximum height: 200 cm / load: 2.5 kg
With air cushioning

Technical specifications for Mini soft boxes

Mini soft box SB 30-20

Colour: white
Dimensions: 30 × 20 cm
Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini soft box SB 22-16

Colour: white
Dimensions: 22 × 16 cm
Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini soft box SB 18-15

Colour: white
Dimensions: 18 × 15 cm
Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Technical specifications for Mini Octagon soft boxes

Mini Octagon soft box SB 34-34

Colour: white
Dimensions: Ø 34 cm
Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini Octagon soft box SB 20-20

Colour: white
Dimensions: Ø 20 cm
Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

Mini Octagon soft box SB 15-15

Colour: white
Dimensions: Ø 15 cm
Includes rear diffuser and carry bag

B&H carries Metz products.

Updated: Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Preview

Wed, 15 May 2013 11:37:08 CDT

The Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Review page has been updated to incorporate the newly-available information about this lens.

Links to the USA and UK press releases, the development announcements and also to some early user reports are provided.

I am very optimistic about the image quality that this lens is going to deliver and excited about what this lens will do for me.

Canon 5D Mark III RAW vs BlackMagic Cinema Camera RAW Video Comparison

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:00:48 CDT

Lately there has been a lot of buzz about Magic Lantern's latest breakthrough - the ability to capture RAW video with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. While this is certainly intriguing news, the Magic Lantern Alpha Firmware is not ready for the masses just yet.

However, videos like these make us just a little bit excited to see what's in store for the future.

"Smith Rock" Video Shot with 5D Mark III Raw Video

For more information, check out EOSHD's Hands on with CONTINUOUS RAW recording on Canon 5D Mark III.

DxO Optics Pro v8.1.6 Now Available

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:03:24 CDT

From DxO:

Support for the Canon EOS 700D/REBEL T5i, the Leica M, the Nikon Coolpix A, the Nikon Coolpix P330, the Pentax MX-1, and the Sony NEX-3N

May 15, 2013 – DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v8.1.6 for Mac and Windows, the new version of its image processing software of reference for all demanding photographers. With this update, DxO Optics Pro 8 now supports the Leica M (Elite edition only) and the Canon EOS 700D/REBEL T5i. Four other cameras complete the list of cameras supported by this updated version: the Nikon Coolpix A, the Nikon Coolpix P330, the Pentax MX-1, and the Sony NEX-3N.

Based on DxO Labs’ exclusive prior calibration process conducted in its laboratories, DxO Optics Pro offers many powerful and automatic tools for processing RAW and JPEG images, including the best tool for automatically adjusting contrast and light, and precise color management.

12,000 DxO Optics Modules available

DxO Optics Pro v8.1.6 benefits from the continuous addition of DxO Optics Modules. Since the last version, 267 new camera/lens combinations have been added to the library, providing support for even more [Canon, Leica, Nikkor, Olympusn Panasonic, Pentax, Sigma, Sony, Tamron, Tokina and Zeiss] lenses for [Canon, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony] cameras.

DxO Optics Pro now offers more than 12,000 DxO Optics Modules, each of which contains tens of thousands of data points about the intrinsic characteristics and flaws of its camera/lens combination. The DxO Optics Modules database, unique in the entire world, allows DxO Optics Pro to automatically correct all the optical flaws in RAW and JPEG images – distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, lens softness – with an unrivaled level of quality.

This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for photographers who purchased a DxO Optics Pro 7 license on or after September 1, 2012.

B&H carries DxO Optics Pro.

Canon USA Joins EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Announcement

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:19:12 CDT

Canon USA has issued their EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens Press Release.

Preorders. Get in line for this amazing lens: B&H | Adorama | Amazon

Just announced: Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:43:31 CDT

The Canon 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens development announcement was made on February 7, 2011. Today, well over two years later, the offical announcement has finally been made.

Here is the Canon UK 200-400 IS Lens Press Release.

Click on the specifications link on that page to get more details about this lens - including its abilitiy to accept not-built-in extenders in addition to the built-in 1.4x. Adding a 2x III makes this a 560-1120mm f/11 IS lens. Image quality at these focal lengths remains an unknown of course.

Preorders

My guess is that this lens will be in short supply with heavy demand - even at this healthy price.

Get on a preorder line: B&H | Adorama | Amazon

Overview from Canon

Designed to satisfy the discriminating needs of sports and wildlife photographers, the EF 200–400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X is a high-performance super telephoto zoom lens with an optically matched built-in 1.4x extender for maximum versatility. With a simple flick of a switch, the zoom range can be quickly increased to 280–560mm (f/5.6). This capability is extremely useful in applications where it is not possible to change lenses quickly, while also protecting delicate equipment such as a digital SLR camera’s image sensor in environments with dust and high humidity. The EF 200–400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X incorporates one fluorite and four UD lens elements, which provide excellent correction of chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range for professional quality images with high resolution, contrast and color fidelity, while a 9-blade circular aperture helps deliver beautiful, soft backgrounds. It utilizes inner focusing, ring USM, a high-speed CPU and optimized AF algorithms for fast and accurate autofocusing. And, with Power Focus mode, focus shifts are quiet and smooth, which is essential for filmmaking. Image stabilization is effective up to four shutter speed steps, with three image stabilization modes (standard, panning, and during exposure only) providing excellent results for a wide range of subjects. Optimized lens placement and coatings deliver outstanding color balance, while helping to minimize ghosting and flare. The lens is highly resistant to dust and water, enabling shooting even in harsh conditions. A fluorine coating on front and rear lens surfaces repels dust particles and makes the lens easier to clean.

I expect to have even more information available later today.

B&H Accepting Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Preorders

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:16:41 CDT

The official Canon press release is not available yet, but much information about the new Canon 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens is now available at B&H.

Preorder now to get this long-awaited lens early in its street life!

Canon Develops New Picture Style for EOS DSLRs

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:03:39 CDT

From Canon UK:

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 14 May 2013 - Canon today announces the release of a new in-camera Picture Style pre-set for its range of EOS DSLRs. Created following direct feedback from video enthusiasts, the new Picture Style, called Video Camera X–series-look, enables users to capture EOS Movie footage with lower contrast levels, allowing for easier colour grading during post production processes.

Similar to that available in Canon’s range of X-series camcorders, the new Picture Style works by lowering colour saturation levels and contrast during filming. This makes it ideal for videographers during post production grading processes, especially if complementing with pre-existing footage shot with Canon’s X-series models, or alternatively for those who instantly want to add atmosphere to Full HD movies. In addition, the new Picture Style can also be applied to still images captured in RAW or JPEG formats.

The new Picture Style can be downloaded now from:
http://web.canon.jp/imaging/picturestyle/index.html (thanks Henri)

Nikon Announces 1 NIKKOR 32mm f/1.2 Lens

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:01:15 CDT

From Nikon:

A fast, mid-telephoto, fixed focal length lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.2, high-performance Nikon 1 lens that offers both superior resolution and large, smooth blur characteristics

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the 1 NIKKOR 32mm f/1.2, a new lens that will expand the lineup of 1 NIKKOR lenses for Nikon 1, Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lenses. Development of this product was announced on October 24, 2012.

The 1 NIKKOR 32mm f/1.2, with its fixed focal length of 32mm (picture angle equivalent to that of an 86mm fixed focal length lens in 35mm [135] format), is a fast, mid-telephoto, fixed focal length lens that offers a maximum aperture of f/1.2, the fastest in the 1 NIKKOR series. It enables excellent resolution with extremely precise rendering of fine textures, such as those of hair and around the eyes including individual eyelashes, as well as blur characteristics that achieve smooth edges around the primary subject and large, beautifully round blur in the background and foreground. The lens expands users' creative expression with rendering of blur and textures similar to that expected of an SLR camera for portraits, snapshots, and landscapes in which the primary subject is clearly emphasized with blurring of the background.

It is the first 1 NIKKOR to utilizes Nano Crystal Coat for effective reduction of ghost and flare . In addition, the lens is equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that utilizes the close-range correction system for focus drive for superior rendering with high-resolution, realistic textures, and very little aberration, even with close-up shooting. This lens is also the first 1 NIKKOR lens to be equipped with a number of features and functions, including M/A (autofocus with manual override) mode, which enables manual focusing by rotating the focus ring for intuitive fine adjustment of focus while autofocus is operating. The lens is available in black and silver. Special attention was paid to its design, which has an elegant look and feel that can be attributed to its fine metal finish, and offers a firm and natural hold with shooting.

1 NIKKOR 32mm f/1.2 Primary Features

A fast, mid-telephoto fixed focal length lens compatible with the CX format offering a focal length of 32mm (picture angle equivalent to that of an 86mm fixed focal length lens in 35mm [135] format), and a maximum aperture of f/1.2, the fastest in the 1 NIKKOR series. Users can enjoy the unique expression possible with superior resolution and smooth, natural blur characteristics.
Utilizes Nano Crystal Coat. This effectively reduces the flare and ghost that often occurs with shooting in backlit situations.
The first 1 NIKKOR lens to be equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) utilizing the close-range correction system for focus drive for superior rendering with high-resolution, realistic textures, and very little aberration, even with close-up shooting.
The first 1 NIKKOR lens equipped with M/A (autofocus with manual override) mode, which enables manual focusing by rotating the focus ring for intuitive fine adjustment of focus while autofocus is operating. This enables smooth recording of movies.
Quieter shooting with reduction of AF drive sound.
Designed with a fine metal finish for an elegant look and appearance and better hold when mounted on a camera.
Available in black or silver for better coordination with camera colors.

The current 1 NIKKOR lineup consists of eight lenses; the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 3x normal zoom lens; the 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 compact telephoto zoom lens; the 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 slim wide-angle fixed focal length lens; the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 PD-ZOOM lens equipped with a power drive mechanism and recommended for movie recording; the 1 NIKKOR 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 2.5x normal zoom lens; the 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 fixed focal length lens with fast maximum aperture; the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6 10x zoom lens; and the 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 ultra wide-angle zoom lens with a 100° angle of view. The addition of this new 1 NIKKOR 35mm f/1.2 lens brings the total 1 NIKKOR lineup to nine lenses.

Nikon will continue to expand the 1 NIKKOR lineup with lenses that make the most of the capabilities and performance offered by Nikon 1, Advanced Cameras with Interchangeable Lenses, which propose new forms of imaging expression.

Preorder Opportunities:

Nikon 1 NIKKOR 32mm f/1.2 Lens - B&H | Adorama | Amazon

Just Posted: Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens Review

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:50:50 CDT

The full Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens Review is now available.

I'll be adding this lens to the Canon general purpose lens recommendations page. I had trouble getting a good copy, but the lens I now have lens delivers excellent image quality.

Redrock Micro One Man Crew Motorized Parabolic Slider Available for Preorder

Mon, 13 May 2013 12:03:08 CDT

B&H has the Redrock Micro One Man Crew Motorized Parabolic Slider available for preorder.

Below is the video Red Rock Micro published with the announcement of the One Man Crew.

Vello BG-C8 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 6D In Stock

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:52:46 CDT

B&H has the Vello BG-C8 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 6D in stock.

AdoramaTV Presents How-To Video for Seamless White Background Portraiture

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:51:47 CDT

From AdoramaTV:

How do you prevent a white background from showing up grey when you light it for portrait photography? Mark Wallace explains.

In this episode of Exploring Photography, shot exclusively for AdoramaTV, Mark Wallace answers one of his most popular questions: How do I get a white background? Mark demonstrates how to get that crisp, shadowless background with speedlights, as well as with only one light. The key to this technique is understanding the Inverse Square Law and where to position both the light and your subject.

Gear Used:

If you're on a budget, you may want to consider a few alternatives:

B&H Upcoming Holiday Closing Notice

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:00:46 CDT

From B&H:

Our SuperStore and Offices will be closing early on Tuesday, May 14th at 2:00PM EDT and remain closed on Wednesday & Thursday, May 15th & 16th. We will reopen on Friday, May 17th at 9:00AM EDT.

To ship your package before we close :

Standard/Super Saver Shipping - Place your order by Monday, May 13th at Midnight.
UPS Ground & Rush Orders - Place your order by Tuesday, May 14th by 12:00 Noon EDT

All orders after these times will be processed after we reopen on Friday, May 17th. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patronage.

Weekend Recap for May 5 - May 11, 2013

Sun, 12 May 2013 08:06:07 CDT

"This is The-Digital-Picture.com's Weekend Recap for the week ending May 11th, 2013

In the news...

On Wednesday, Canon made their EOS Solutions Disk available for download. The Solutions Disk download contains Canon’s Digital Photo Professional, EOS Utility, and Picture Style Editor. The software, which comes packaged with Canon digital SLR cameras, should prove useful for those who need to reinstall their software but have managed to misplace their original OEM disk.

On Thursday, we posted a link to a LensRentals Blog post where Roger warns photographers to leave their camera gear at home when attending Color Run races. The powered dye thrown at such races can severely damage even weather-sealed DSLR lenses.

On Friday, Think Tank Photo released their Mirrorless Mover camera bags. The new collection was designed specifically for mirrorless cameras and includes the Mirrorless Mover 5, 10, 20, and 30i. Use the links from our site and receive a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more.

Throughout the week, though, Adobe made the biggest headlines with its various Creative Cloud announcements. In particular, Adobe announced new Photoshop CC goodies such as Camera Shake Reduction, Smart sharpen with reduced noise and halos, intelligent upsampling, and Camera Raw 8.

However, Adobe’s focus on Creative Cloud, and its shift away from perpetual licensing, has left many photographers concerned about the future of their software editing. It should be interesting to see if, and how, Adobe addresses those concerns.

In site news and reviews...

On Monday, Bryan posted the image quality test results for the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM lens. Bryan noted that while the build quality has significantly improved compared to its predecessor, image quality remains relatively unchanged.

On Wednesday, Bryan posted the image quality results for the highly-anticipated Samyang 24mm f/3.5 ED AS UMC Tilt-Shift lens. In short, the significantly cheaper lens doesn’t compete with the sharpness delivered by the venerable Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5 L II Tilt Shift lens. However, at half the price, it performs well enough at narrow apertures to garner consideration.

And, for our deal of the week…

On Tuesday, we posted a deal from B&H where you could get a Canon PIXMA PRO-100 with free photo paper for $89.00 after a $300.00 mail-in rebate. The rebate offer ends soon, so if you need a high-quality printer, don’t wait to take advantage of this exceptional deal.

This has been the The-Digital-Picture.com’s Weekend Recap. Thanks for listening, and as always, happy shooting!"

Think Tank Photo Announces Mirrorless Mover Camera Bags

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:17:09 CDT

From Think Tank Photo:

Think Tank Photo’s New Mirrorless Mover™ Camera Bag Collection Features Highest Quality Design and Materials

Santa Rosa, Calif. – Think Tank Photo has just released a new camera bag collection scaled to fit today’s smaller mirrorless cameras, the Mirrorless Mover™. The Mirrorless Mover collection offers photographers the same top quality materials and craftsmanship for which Think Tank is renowned.

Four sizes of bags offer a wide choice to consumers; from the smallest case, the Mirrorless Mover 5, designed for one mirrorless camera, on up to the largest, the Mirrorless Mover 30i, which will accommodate a camera, lenses, accessories and an iPad.

“Unlike many other bags in this class, our Mirrorless Mover collection does not cut corners in materials or craftsmanship,” said Doug Murdoch, Think Tank Photo’s president and lead designer. “We utilize metal hardware instead of plastic buckles, high quality fabrics, YKK zippers and a new, magnetic closure. The Mirrorless Movers offer photographers quality in their camera bags worthy of their investment in these sophisticated, expensive camera systems.”

Gear Profiles

The Mirrorless Mover 5 fits one small size mirrorless body with a small telephoto or pancake lens attached. It is sized for the Canon EOS–M, Leica D–Lux, Nikon 1 series, Olympus E–PM2, E–PL5, EP–3, Panasonic GF3, Sony NEX–C3, or similar sized bodies.
The Mirrorless Mover 10 fits one medium size mirrorless body plus one to two lenses and additional accessories. It is sized for the Leica V–Lux, Olympus OM–D E–M5, Panasonic G3, GF5, GH2, Samsung NX5, NX11, NX210, Sony NEX–5, NEX–6, NEX–7, or similar sized/smaller bodies.
The Mirrorless Mover 20 fits one medium size mirrorless body plus two to three lenses and additional accessories. It is sized for the Leica V–Lux, Olympus OM–D E–M5, Panasonic G3, GF5, GH2, Samsung NX5, NX11, NX210, Sony NEX–5, NEX–6, NEX–7, or similar sized/smaller bodies.
The Mirrorless Mover 30i fits one medium to large size mirrorless body plus two to four lenses, iPad, and additional accessories or a small–size DSLR and one to three small telephoto lenses or primes. It is sized for the Fuji X–Pro 1, Leica M8, Panasonic GH3 or similar sized/smaller bodies. Small DSLRs: Canon Rebel, Nikon D3200/D5200, Sony SLT–A55/A37 or similar sized bodies.

Key Features

Designed specifically for mirrorless equipment.
High quality YKK zippers and metal hardware.
Multipurpose divider with smart phone slot and two SD card slots (excluding smallest size).
Dedicated iPad pocket (Mirrorless Mover 30i).
Easily accessible front organizer pocket.
Stretchable side pockets fit accessories.
Padded non-slip flexible shoulder strap (Mirrorless Mover 30i).
Poly–ballistic fabric ensures durability.
Seam–sealed rain cover included in front pocket.
Internal mesh pocket on lid for batteries or other accessories.

Materials

Exterior: All fabric exterior treated with a DWR coating while fabric underside is coated with PU for superior water resistance, YKK® RC zippers, 1680D ballistic polyester, 600D brushed polyester, Ultra-stretch pocket, antique nickel plated metal hardware, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Interior: removable closed cell foam dividers, 200D polyester, laminated non-woven backed nylex liner, polyester 190T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Specifications

Mirrorless Mover 5

Internal Dimensions: 3.5” W x 4.7” H x 3.1” D (9 x 12 x 8 cm)
External Dimensions: 4.7” W x 5.9” H x 3.9” D (12 x 15 x 10 cm)
Weight (with all accessories): 0.4 lbs (0.2kg)

Mirrorless Mover 10

Internal Dimensions: 4.9” W x 5.3” H x 3.7” D (12.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 cm)
External Dimensions: 5.3” W x 6.1” H x 4.5” D (13.5 x 15.5 x 11.5 cm)
Smart Phone Slot: 2.8” W x 4.8” H x 0.6” D (7 x 12.3 x 1.6 cm)
Weight (with all accessories): 0.5 lbs (0.2 kg)

Mirrorless Mover 20

Internal Dimensions: 8.5” W x 5.3” H x 3.7” D (21.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 cm)
External Dimensions: 8.9” W x 6.1” H x 4.5” D (22.5 x 15.5 x 11.5 cm)
Smart Phone Slot: 2.8” W x 4.8” H x 0.6” D (7 x 12.3 x 1.6 cm)
Weight (with all accessories): 0.7 lbs (0.3 kg)

Mirrorless Mover 30i

Internal Dimensions: 10.6” W x 8” H x 3.9” D (27 x 20.5 x 10 cm)
External Dimensions: 11” W x 8.9” H x 5.7” D (28 x 22.5 x 14.5 cm)
Smart Phone Slot: 2.8” W x 5” H x 0.6” D (7 x 12.7 x 1.6 cm)
iPad pocket: 9.8”W x 8.1”H x 0.9” D (25 x 20.5 x 2.3 cm)
Weight (with all accessories): 1.0 lbs (0.5 kg)

Note: Use the links from this site to get a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Think Tank Photo!

Key Features / Technologies Explained from Canon CN-E14mm T3.1L F & CN-E135mm T2.2L F Cinema Lenses

Fri, 10 May 2013 09:12:09 CDT

Canon Professional Network has recently published two reference guides illustrating the key features and technologies from the Canon CN-E14mm T3.1L F & CN-E135mm T2.2L F cinema lenses.

B&H has the Canon CN-E14mm T3.1L F Cinema Lens in stock and the CN-E135mm T2.2L F Cinema Lens available for preorder.

CPN Presents Gary Schmid on the EOS-1D X and the EF14mm f/2.8L II USM

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:22:46 CDT

From Canon Professional Network:

"Canon Explorer Gary Schmid is one of the world’s leading commercial photographers and he has recently been working from his base in Dubai, as well as on location in Russia, with the 18.1 Megapixel EOS-1D X DSLR and the EF14mm f/2.8L II lens. In an exclusive article for CPN he reveals his thoughts on the performance of the camera and how the super wide-angle lens has helped his interior shoots..."

See the article here.

B&H carries the Canon EOS 1D X DSLR Camera and EF 14mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens.

How to Ruin Your Gear in 5 Minutes (Without Water)

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:45:08 CDT

Roger Cicala at LensRentals has created an insightful blog post regarding the dangers of photographing Color Run 5ks.

If you're planning on attending one of these events with your camera equipment, be sure to read this cautionary tale first.

X-Rite Announces Four Free May Webinars

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:25:08 CDT

From X-Rite:

Online educational tutorials provide photographers with basic information, insights, and tips to achieve color control, consistency and creativity in their digital imaging and video workflow

North White Plains, NY – May 7, 2013 – X-Rite Photo Marketing announces its schedule of free May 2013 Webinars that have been developed to address specific color management topics and are designed to appeal to both professional and serious amateur photographers and videographers.

This month X-Rite offers four free webinars to help photographers and videographers gain new confidence and to learn quick, easy and powerful ways to enhance their color workflow. Webinar attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions to the live trainers.

“X-Rite remains committed to teaching photographers and videographers how to take control of their color management and digital imaging workflow,” said Joshua Fischer, vice president, X-Rite Photo Marketing. “This month’s webinar schedule includes four helpful topics that focus on photography, travel and presentation tips, post-production workflow and professional level monitor calibration for still-imaging and video applications.”

One of this month’s webinars is co-sponsored with Gura Gear and it focuses on the work of travel and landscape photographer Scott MacQuarrie. In a webinar co-sponsored by PhotoShelter, noted photographer and educator Eduardo Angel will offer insight and advice about editing a portfolio, developing a vision and utilizing digital workflow techniques. Two other webinars, taught by X-Rite’s own Brenda Hipsher feature tips for color workflow, the first of which focuses on Professional Monitor calibration. The second, co-sponsored by The Hallmark Institute of Photography, discusses and demonstrates overall color management, from camera to monitor to projector to prints.

These informative webinars are designed to be informational as well as inspirational by offering photographers practical ways to improve their photography.

May 2013 Webinar Schedule

Date: May 14th
Time: 4:00 pm EDT
Title: Editing a Portfolio and Developing your Vision
Presenter: Eduardo Angel
Registration Link
*Co-sponsored by PhotoShelter

Date: May 22nd
Time: 6:00 pm EDT
Title: Travel and Landscape Photography: Working in the Field with Scott MacQuarrie
Presenter: Scott MacQuarrie
Registration Link
*Co-sponsored by Gura Gear

Date: May 30th
Time: 12:00 pm EDT
Title: Professional Monitor Calibration for Still & Video
Presenter: Brenda Hipsher
Registration Link

Date: May 30th
Time: 3:00 pm EDT
Title: Simply Amazing Color. Take control of your monitor, projector, printer and camera!
Presenter: Brenda Hipsher
Registration Link
*Co-sponosored by Hallmark Institute of Photography

For more information on the webinars, visit X-Rite's webinars page.

B&H carries X-Rite Color Management Products.

30% Off Photo Books at AdoramaPix

Thu, 09 May 2013 08:09:00 CDT

Use coupon code PXPHOTO30 (or PXPHOTO30L for leather) at AdoramaPix to get 30% off custom Photo Books.

Nikon Posts Financial Results for Year Ending March 31, 2013

Thu, 09 May 2013 07:31:17 CDT

Nikon has posted their financial results for the year ending March 31, 2013.

Financial Results (PDF:897KB)

Financial and Business Data (PDF:88KB)

Presentation Material (PDF:633KB)

Financial Results for the Year Ended March 31, 2013 (PDF:377KB)
Estimation for the Year Ending March 31, 2014 (PDF:313KB)
Reference Data (PDF:187KB)

Adobe Camera Raw 8 Support for Photoshop CC and Photoshop CS6

Thu, 09 May 2013 06:54:35 CDT

From Adobe Lightroom Journal:

May 6, 2013 - Today’s Photoshop CC announcement requires a modest change in our camera raw support policy. Because Adobe is still selling Photoshop CS6, those customers will continue to receive updated camera raw file format compatibility via Adobe Camera Raw 8. When we update ACR8 with new camera support, Photoshop CS6 customers can work with the new version of the Camera Raw plug-in. No new features or functionality will be available in ACR to Photoshop CS6 customers as part of those updates. (No Upright, advanced healing brush or radial filter, etc.) I don’t have a timeline for how long this camera raw support will continue for Photoshop CS6 but I want to be consistent with our past policy of providing raw support for currently shipping products.

How does the Samyang 24mm Tilt-Shift Lens Compare to the Canon 24mm L II Tilt-Shift Lens?

Wed, 08 May 2013 07:26:41 CDT

With the highly-anticipated Samyang Tilt Shift Lens now in hand, it is time to see what it can do. This lens is currently going through our full range of lab tests, but the image quality results from the ISO 12233 resolution chart are now available on the Samyang 24mm f/3.5 ED AS UMC Tilt-Shift Lens Review page. Shifted test results are additionally available.

Also, with a clear morning on Saturday, I spent some time shooting outdoor comparisons between this lens and the 2x more expensive Canon TS-E 24mm L II Tilt-Shift Lens. I am sharing one of these comparisons on the Samyang review page.

Update: Vignetting and distortion results are now also available.

60% Off Creative Cloud for Students and Teachers

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:49:13 CDT

Through June 25, Adobe is offering Creative Cloud for students and teachers for 60% off, or $19.99 per month with an annual subscription.

Through July 31, customers of CS3 or higher can upgrade to Creative Cloud for 40% off, or $29.99 per month with an annual subscription.

EOS Digital Solution Disk Software Now Availalbe for Download

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:06:59 CDT

Canon USA has the complete EOS Digital Solution Disk Software Disk available for download.

Note: You need to enter the serial number for your camera in order to download the software. Be sure to enter any leading zeros – else your serial number will not be recognized.

From Canon:

"EOS Digital Solution Disk Software" is a software suite containing the applications "Digital Photo Professional", "EOS Utility" and "Picture Style Editor", dedicated for users who cannot use the bundled CD to install the suite to the PC.

Digital Photo Professional: This software is recommended for users who mainly shoot RAW images. You can quickly view, edit, process and print RAW images. You can also edit JPEG images while retaining the original images.

EOS Utility: With the camera connected to a computer, EOS Utility enables you to transfer still photos and movies shot with the camera to the computer. You can also use this software to set various camera settings and shoot remotely with the computer connected to the camera.

Picture Style Editor: You can edit Picture Styles and create and save original Picture Style files.

This package contains the following version applications:

Digital Photo Professional 3.13.10
EOS Utility 2.13.10
Picture Style Editor 1.13.10

Download:

EOS Digital Solution Disk Software Disk v28.1A

Adobe Delivers “Sneak Peeks” of Creative Innovation

Wed, 08 May 2013 07:30:25 CDT

From Adobe:Top technology explorations spotlighted, including “Perspective Warp” in Photoshop and “Video Color Grading” in After Effects

SAN JOSE, Calif. — May 7, 2013 — Adobe (Nasdaq:ADBE) today presented a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge design and interactive technologies at Adobe MAX, The Creativity Conference. Focused on creativity and expressiveness, MAX brings together over 5,000 creative industry leaders, visionaries and professionals to exchange ideas and inspiration and explore how creativity is changing the world.

MAX Sneak Peeks offer a unique opportunity to see inside Adobe’s engineering labs and to preview breakthrough applications and features during their early stage of development. For example, the new Camera Shake Reduction tool, that analyzes and corrects blur from camera movement, which was unveiled as part of Adobe® Photoshop® CC yesterday, was actually first shown publicly at MAX Sneak Peeks in October 2011.

Videos of the technology explorations spotlighted during the MAX Sneak Peeks, hosted by Rainn Wilson and special guest Mary Lynn Rajskub, with Ben Forta, director of Evangelism, Adobe, will soon be available on YouTube. Photos will be posted in the Adobe MAX online press room. Projects shown may, or may not, make it into future versions of Adobe products and services.

“The Sneaks embody the spirit and passion for technology innovation that thrives at Adobe,” said David Wadhwani, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Media Business, Adobe. “The presentations are always a sensation at Adobe MAX; the energy and enthusiasm from the audience is electric and demonstrate that our creative customers are always ready to embrace the new.”

Adobe MAX Sneak Peeks

Drawing Tools Revisited: The opening keynote introduced a hardware project named “Mighty” (and a related short ruler project named “Napoleon”) which aims to marry traditional drawing tools with the mobility and flexibility of tablet devices. Innovative next generation hardware like these need new yet familiar software.
Responsive Design with Edge Code (Edge Code): Edge Reflow is the perfect tool for creatives who want to build modern, responsive websites. But what about developers whose workflow is highly code based? Here’s an Edge Reflow-inspired experience available right inside of Edge Code.
Creative Cloud™ as a Service (Photoshop): As mentioned in the opening keynote, Creative Cloud makes it possible to host that "Adobe magic" as a service to power all sorts of apps and more. This sneak is an example of just that, a Photoshop feature running in the crowd, and made better over time thanks to crowdsourcing.
Playing with Lighting (After Effects® & Photoshop): Photographers will often tell you that “It’s all about the lighting.” This sneak lets you experiment and play with lighting after the fact. Tweak image lighting based on a selected sample and turn your home movies into blockbuster hits (or at least make them look the part) by adjusting lighting modeled on any movie you choose.
Code Free Website Special Effects (Muse™): Muse is a proven platform for building powerful and great looking websites without having to write any code, and we’re just getting started. Next up, code-free color transformations, 3D motion, and more!
Navigating and Debugging Asynchronous JavaScript in Brackets (Edge Code): Developers, never again find yourself asking "What code runs when I click this button," "What code caused this callback to be called," or "Why didn't this code ever run?" This Edge Code plugin reveals all.
“Painting with Bob”: Create a masterpiece painting without, well, painting! These special brushes allow you to paint by copying a picture using a variety of special strokes and textures.
Digital Publication Special Effects (DPS): Digital publications shouldn’t merely be copies of their print counterparts. After all, tablets and devices can do so much more. This sneak will wow you with just how easy it can be to add animation, special effects and even accelerometer-based movement to your digital publications.
Liquid Search: Stop searching using words to describe what you want. Instead, use a silhouette, then draw it, resize it, drag it, reshape it … and Liquid Search will do the rest.
PSD Lens (Edge Code): Most websites start off as Photoshop comps which designers then turn into Web pages (which is why Photoshop includes features that assist creative professionals in quickly and easily converting their creations for Web use). But what about developers who are more comfortable in code and use a very different workflow? This sneak allows Edge Code users to open PSD files right inside their editor, exposing all that Photoshop goodness in real-time as they type.
Audio Layers: Separating desired audio from background noise is a painful process. Or rather, it was. Use a visual editor to paint the sounds you want while identifying those you don’t, and this tool will do the rest.
Perspective Warp (Photoshop): Ever wished you had gotten closer to take a picture? Perhaps you were not right in front of your subject or took the picture from too high or low? This Photoshop sneak lets you adjust the perspective for parts of your shot while still keeping the rest of the image intact.

B&H carries Adobe software products.

Adobe Demonstrates Project Mighty and Napoleon Input Devices

Tue, 07 May 2013 13:48:16 CDT

From Adobe Systems YouTube channel:

"Our XD team revealed a few projects they're working on at Adobe MAX 2013. The team has been exploring how new form factor displays, new interactions (like touch and gesture), cloud connections and even new hardware might change how you all create and in turn how it might impact what software we need to build. Watch the video to get the full overview."

XIT Professional LCD Viewfinder Loupe Mini Review

Tue, 07 May 2013 08:19:02 CDT

By Sean Setters

I recently picked up an XIT Professional LCD Viewfinder Loupe from B&H. I generally shoot outdoors under bright, sunny skies and thought I might find a viewfinder loupe to be advantageous. As it turns out, "advantageous" is an understatement – I consider a loupe to be an essential tool now that I have used one.

Benefits of using a loupe:

A loupe allows you to easily review the images on your LCD by eliminating the sun's glare from the screen. The image is displayed in a dark environment, so a constant brightness can be used on the LCD screen. This consistency allows you to get a better idea of what your images will look like without necessarily having to check the histogram for a questionably exposed image (although that's always a good idea).
Some loupes (like the XIT) show a magnified view of your LCD. This allows you to more easily check for critical focus.
A viewfinder loupe is great for DSLR video. The loupe not only helps you with focus, but it also helps you gain another point of contact with the camera aiding in stabilization.

Drawbacks of using a loupe:

Generally, a viewfinder loupe is either affixed to the camera (via a strap or bracket) or is simply worn by the photographer and placed over the LCD screen when needed (like the well-known Hoodman's HoodLoupes). Many people find it difficult to position the loupe perfectly over the LCD and hold it there for optimal viewing. When using semi-permanently affixed loupe for still photography, you either have to use Live View for shooting or you must remove the loupe until you're ready to review the images. Neither of the scenerios seem ideal to me.
The optics can become scratched without careful storage.

The XIT Professional LCD Viewfinder Loupe solves the complexity of positioning, attaching and releasing the loupe by using a thin magnetic mounting plate glued to your camera that allows you to quickly and conveniently attach and release the loupe.

That said, neither Bryan nor I like the idea of gluing something to our cameras – it makes us both cringe just a bit. Bryan doesn't even like to use screen protectors. However, I like having something on my screen to protect it from scratches. That's why I already had a GGS 3rd Generation Optical Glass Screen Protector on my 5D Mark II. The GGS screen protector isn't glued to your screen. Instead, it fits over the eyepiece and extends downward to cover both the eyepiece and the LCD screen. The fit and finish are so good that it looks like a part of the camera; I rarely notice that it's there.

So why is the screen protector important? It allows you to attach the XIT Viewfinder Loup's mounting plate to the screen protector instead of the camera, thus keeping your camera glue-free.

The only downside I have experienced with using the screen protector + mounting plate combo is that if you inadvertently pull on the loupe while it's attached, stray light can get under the screen protector when viewing the LCD. Applying a small amount of pressure (pushing the loupe toward the camera) easily solves this problem.

I love having a loupe when shooting under the bright sun. The inexpensive XIT Professional 3" LCD Viewfinder Loupe has earned a permanent place in my camera bag. I don't have any experience with other viewfinder loupes, but there are others you may want to consider (like the Hoodman Hoodloupe). Keep in mind you'll need to find a viewfinder loupe that is the appropriate size for your camera's LCD screen.

Nikon Releases Capture NX 2.4.2 and ViewNX 2.7.5 Software Updates

Tue, 07 May 2013 06:29:29 CDT

Nikon has released Capture NX 2.4.2 and ViewNX 2.7.5 software updates – both were updated with the modification listed below.

From Nikon:

Modifications enabled with version

When RAW images captured with a D600 running C firmware Ver. 1.01 at an Image area setting of DX (24×16) 1.5x and any Active D-Lighting setting other than Off were opened in Capture NX 2, a bright (whitish) diagonal line was visible. This issue has been resolved.

Downloads

Capture NX 2.4.2 - Windows | Macintosh
ViewNX 2.7.5 - Windows (64bit / 32bit) | Macintosh

B&H carries Nikon Capture NX 2 photo editing software.

First Looks at Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Lens Image Quality

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:41:52 CDT

Standard test results (ISO 12233 resolution chart/image quality, flare, distortion, vignetting, specs & measurements) have been added to the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Lens review page.

The new Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Lens, the "| A" version, is a significant upgrade from the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM Lens, the "EX" version, in terms of build quality. Unfortunately, the image quality has not been so upgraded.

Powerful New Adobe Photoshop CC Debuts at MAX

Mon, 06 May 2013 16:11:20 CDT

From Adobe:Milestone Version of The Industry Standard in Digital Imaging Anchors Major Update to Adobe Creative Cloud

LOS, ANGELES — May 6, 2013 — At Adobe MAX, The Creativity Conference, Adobe (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced Adobe® Photoshop® CC as part of a major update to Adobe Creative Cloud™ (see separate press release). Photoshop CC pushes the boundaries of possibility, offering a powerful new creative process, legendary imaging magic, and greater creative freedom with new tools and workflows. Adobe Photoshop CC will be available, exclusively to Creative Cloud members, in June.

Adobe’s desktop apps, including Photoshop, were previously known as Creative Suite® (CS), and will now be branded CC to reflect that they are an integral part of Creative Cloud and have been reinvented to support a more intuitive, connected way of creating. Photoshop CC includes a wide range of innovative enhancements, including new image deblurring and sharpening features to improve design workflows, and new Camera Raw capabilities. This update combines Photoshop standard and Photoshop Extended features to deliver greater accessibility to 3D tools and image analysis, while Creative Cloud integration offers flexible collaboration and sharing capabilities.

“With the ability to quickly deliver new innovations, we’re empowering photographers and creatives to push the boundaries in digital imaging and design,” said Winston Hendrickson, vice president of products, Creative Media Solutions, Adobe. “Our customers will no longer have to wait 18 to 24 months to access new Photoshop innovation. When a new Photoshop feature is ready – whether it’s the next Healing Brush or something as mind-blowing as Content Aware Fill – we’ll deliver it via Creative Cloud.”

New Features in Photoshop CC

Photoshop CC brings a wide range of new features and enhancements designed to unleash creativity and boost efficiency whether perfecting photographs, designing for online and offline media, creating 3D artwork or shooting video.

A fleet of new tools introduce the most advanced deblurring and sharpening technologies to date. The new Camera Shake Reduction tool analyzes and corrects for blur from camera movement to produce a better image. The all-new Smart Sharpen tool uses adaptive sharpening algorithms to minimize noise and halo effects while producing high-quality results. With intelligent upsampling users can increase the size of an image – large enough for a billboard – without pixelating the image.
Adobe Camera Raw 8 brings three new photo-editing capabilities to Photoshop CC. The Advanced Healing brush allows photographers to “heal” or “patch” images with a brush stroke instead of a circular area. The new Radial Gradient offers powerful controls to draw attention to the focus of an image without applying a standard vignette, and the Upright tool automatically straightens horizons and applies perspective corrections without distorting the image. Camera Raw edits can also be made to any layer or file within Photoshop CC.
For designers, improvements to rounded rectangles add the ability to adjust corner radii at any time. Users can also now select multiple paths, shapes and vectors at once, providing a faster, easier workflow for working with multiple objects.
In previous releases, Adobe Photoshop Extended was released as a separate application comprising all Photoshop features as well as 3D and image analysis capabilities. Beginning with Photoshop CC, all Photoshop Extended features will be integrated within one application, providing all users with advanced capabilities for 3D image editing and image analysis.
Photoshop CC is the first Adobe desktop app to include the ability to post files directly to Behance from within the application, showcasing work immediately and integrating peer feedback into the creative process. Behance is the world’s leading online creative community, with over 1.4 million members.
Photoshop CC includes all the Photoshop feature innovation delivered exclusively to Creative Cloud members over the last year, including: Smart Object support for Blur Gallery and Liquify effects, Conditional Actions, and CSS support for faster web design.
Adobe is also previewing a new workflow from Photoshop CC to Edge Reflow CC that will enable creatives to build web designs in Photoshop that can easily be turned into responsive websites, viewable across devices. Adobe expects to update Photoshop CC with this new capability this summer, underscoring the constant steam of innovation delivered to Creative Cloud members.

"I capture thousands of images for my 'Day to Night' projects and am always looking to improve my creative process," said Stephen Wilkes, an award-winning photographer, whose work has appeared in Vanity Fair, Sports Illustrated, Time, Life Magazine, and The New York Times Magazine. "With Photoshop as part of Adobe's Creative Cloud, I don't have to wait every year for a new set of tools and features, like Smart Sharpen and the new upsampling capabilities, to help achieve my vision. I'm also excited about the integration with Behance. As a photographer, the ability to connect to a global community of artists, art directors, and designers is very inspiring."

To find out more about Photoshop CC, users can connect with the Photoshop team on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Photoshop; YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/photoshop; Photoshop.com blog: http://blogs.adobe.com/photoshopdotcom/; or via Twitter: http://twitter.com/photoshop.

Membership Plans and Availability

By signing up for Creative Cloud today, creatives will be set up to immediately download and use these latest cloud-enabled innovations from Adobe, when they are available next month. Creative Cloud membership for individuals is US$49.99 per month based on annual membership; existing customers who own CS3 to CS5.5 get their first year of Creative Cloud at the discounted rate of US $29.99 per month. Students and teachers can get Creative Cloud for $29.99 per month.

Single application membership plans for customers, who require only Photoshop CC, are available for $19.99 per month. Special promotional pricing is available for some customers, including CS6 users.

A team version of Creative Cloud includes everything individual members receive plus 100GB of storage and centralized deployment and administration capabilities. Creative Cloud for teams is priced at US $69.99 per month per seat. Existing customers, who own a volume license of CS3 or later, get their first year of Creative Cloud for teams at the discounted rate of US $39.99 per month per seat if they sign up before the end of August 2013.

For more details, visit: https://creative.adobe.com/plans.

Adobe Unveils Major Update to Creative Cloud

Mon, 06 May 2013 16:03:16 CDT

From Adobe:

Includes Next Generation of “CC” Desktop Applications and Delivers Fully Integrated Cross-Device Collaboration, Community and Publishing Capabilities

LOS, ANGELES — May 6, 2013 — At Adobe MAX, The Creativity Conference, Adobe (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced a significant update to Adobe® Creative Cloud™, the company’s flagship offering for creatives. Available in June and packed with new features, Creative Cloud reimagines the creative process through a stunning set of “CC” desktop applications and sophisticated cross-device collaboration and publishing capabilities. Creative files can be stored, synced and shared, via Creative Cloud, on Mac OS, Windows, iOS and Android; and Behance, the world’s leading online creative community, is now integrated with Creative Cloud, so customers can showcase work, get feedback on projects and gain global exposure. With Creative Cloud publishing finished work has never been easier, with enhanced services that build and power websites, mobile apps, tablet publications, online portfolios, and content for virtually any medium and device.

By signing up for Creative Cloud today, creatives will be set up to download and use these latest cloud-enabled innovations from Adobe, when they are available next month.

“Creative Cloud brings together everything you need to create your best work. We’re delivering incredible new versions of our desktop tools, services that take publishing content to the next level and we’re making it easier than ever for creatives to collaborate and share their work worldwide,” said David Wadhwani, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Media, Adobe. “Creative Cloud is a destination that champions inspiring work and builds lasting connections within a vibrant global creative community.”

Adobe Creative Cloud Powers Frictionless Creative Workflows

This milestone update to Creative Cloud simplifies the entire creative process. Core features include:

Desktop, Web and Mobile Access. Creative Cloud allows users to stay connected with workgroups and the creativecommunity via their desktop, website, or mobile device. With Creative Cloud, your entire creative world gets its own centralized hub whereideas, files, fonts, settings, notifications, and team members are connected and organized. Join group folders to work collaboratively; track updates and comments to shared files; stay connected to work on Behance; get notified when app updates are available and download the latest updates; and access favorite colors, fonts and settings, wherever you are.
Integration With The World’s Leading Creative Community. With Behance now integrated with Creative Cloud, members will be able to publish their own portfolios, follow other creatives, publish work-in-progress from within a growing number of CC apps and solicit feedback from the worldwide creative community. Over 1.4 million creatives globally are part of the Behance network.
Synchronize, Store, Share and Collaborate. All files and assets will be automatically synchronized between the desktop, cloud and mobile devices. A designer can take a photo on their iPad, use Photoshop® Touch to refine the photo while on the go, then access that file, via the cloud, and use Photoshop CC on their Mac or Windows PC to further enhance the image. Designers can designate shared folders and invite others to collaborate on files. Edits are stored with version history so users can share their files with confidence. Individual members receive 20GB of storage.
Seamless Publishing. Creative Cloud members have access to the services necessary to publish highly personalized portfolio websites using Behance ProSite, high-impact digital magazines for iPad using Digital Publishing Suite (DPS) Single Edition, and PhoneGap™ Build to create and publish mobile apps for any device. Adobe Typekit features an unmatched library of old-classic to new-favorite fonts for use on websites – and, with this update, creatives can use many of these same fonts directly in their desktop applications.

New Family of CC Desktop Applications Available Exclusively to Creative Cloud MembersThis update to Creative Cloud includes the next generation of Adobe desktop applications -- including Adobe Photoshop CC, InDesign® CC, Illustrator® CC, Dreamweaver® CC and Premiere® Pro CC. Adobe’s desktop tools, previously known as Creative Suite® (CS), are now branded CC to reflect that they are an integral part of Creative Cloud and have been reinvented to support a more intuitive, connected way of creating. Adobe Creative Cloud includes more than 30 tools and services that enable professional-grade content creation and delivery across print, web, mobile apps, video and photography.

Hundreds of new features are included in these latest versions of Adobe’s industry-defining desktop tools. Innovations include:

Photoshop CC will ship with new sharpening technologies and designer workflow enhancements. Camera Shake Reduction deblurs images that would have otherwise been lost due tocamera movement. All-newSmart Sharpen makes texture and detail pop, and Adobe Camera Raw 8 adds even more powerful photographic controls to straighten and perfect images. Photoshop CC is the first Adobe desktop application to include the ability to post files directly to Behance fromwithin the application, showcasing work immediately and integrating peer feedback into the creative process.
For designers, the Touch Type tool in Illustrator CC offers a new level of creativity with type. Move, scale, and rotate text characters knowing that it remains editable. This feature works with a mouse, stylus or multi-touch device. Illustrator also enables painting with a brush made from a photo. Art, Pattern, and Scatter brushes can contain raster images, so designers can create complex organic designs quickly, with simple brush strokes. A new, modern architecture for InDesign CC turbocharges performance, and in-browser editing in Adobe Muse™ CC -- a tool for designers to create and publish HTML websites without writing code -- allows clients to make edits to a published website, which can then be reviewed, approved, and updated by the designer.
For video customers Adobe Premiere Pro CCincludes dramatic new editing features, customizations and improvements to help editors work efficiently. Premiere Pro CC integrates powerful color workflows, with the addition of the Lumetri™ Deep Color Engine to easily apply rich color grading looks. A high-impact version of Adobe After Effects® CC brings motion graphics and visual effects artists more creative possibilities and allows them to work more easily in 3D with the new Live 3D Pipeline with Maxon Cinema4D integration. There are also all-new versions of Adobe SpeedGrade CC, Audition® CC, Prelude™ CC and Adobe Story CC Plus.
Web designers and developers can look forward to significant advances in Adobe’s family of Edge tools and services. The latest Edge Animate CC lets web designers create animated and interactive content with amazing ease and precision, using native HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Adobe is also previewing a new workflow from Photoshop CC to Edge Reflow CC that will enable creatives to build web designs in Photoshop that can easily be turned into responsive web sites. Dreamweaver users can look forward to the most up-to-date CSS and properties via the intuitive visual editing tool, CSS Designer. And Adobe Flash® Pro CC features a modern, modular 64-bit architecture rebuilt from the ground up to be fast and reliable.

Membership Plans and Availability

This major update to Creative Cloud is available in June. By signing up for Creative Cloud today, creatives will be set up to download and use these latest cloud-enabled innovations from Adobe, when they are available next month. Creative Cloud membership for individuals is US$49.99 per month based on annual membership; existing customers who own CS3 to CS5.5 get their first year of Creative Cloud at the discounted rate of US $29.99 per month. Students and teachers can get Creative Cloud for $29.99 per month. Promotional pricing is available for some customers, including CS6 users.

A team version of Creative Cloud includes everything individual members receive plus 100GB of storage and centralized deployment and administration capabilities. Creative Cloud for teams is priced at US $69.99 per month per seat. Existing customers, who own a volume license of CS3 or later, get their first year of Creative Cloud for teams at the discounted rate of US $39.99 per month per seat if they sign up before the end of August 2013.

Adobe also announced Creative Cloud for enterprise today and special licensing programs for educational institutions and government. For more details, visit: https://creative.adobe.com/plans.

Tenba Introduces New Roadie Executive Backpack

Mon, 06 May 2013 15:43:01 CDT

From Tenba:

Designed to be the ultimate business backpack

North White Plains, NY, May 06, 2013 - Leading the way in carrying solutions for over 30 years, Tenba announces that it has introduced a new bag to their popular Roadie collection. The Roadie Executive Backpack was designed to be the ultimate briefcase backpack for the traveling professional. It features a handsome and distinctive exterior design that matches the rest of the Roadie collection. It is built with three cascading storage sections: first for laptop, iPad and documents; second for tech accessories; and third for core business tools like pens and business cards. The cascading sections nest together when zipped shut, so the bag always maintains a slim profile.

Unique to the Roadie Executive is a dual-pocket computer compartment that will hold both an iPad and a laptop up to 15 inches. The left side of the bag has a stretchy mesh pocket for a beverage or other items for quick access. On the right side there is one of Tenba's signature zippered side pockets that can be accessed even while wearing both sides of the harness; it fits a wallet and passport for easy retrieval.

“From photographers and filmmakers to our own marketing and sales representatives, we work with many people who spend a large amount of their life traveling,” said Jan Lederman, President of MAC Group. “The new Roadie Executive Backpack was built for the person who occasionally spends days on the road, and the only bag they will have with them most days is their briefcase backpack. You need space for everything, pockets to be organized, and it all needs to fit under the seat of an airplane.”

The exterior of the new Roadie Executive Backpack is made from water-repellant 1680 denier black ballistic nylon, and includes matte black YKK zippers with molded zipper pulls. There is a padded and ventilated shoulder harness at the rear, along with a built-in trolley strap to slide over the extending handle of rolling luggage, and a padded, reinforced handle at the top that is comfortable to carry even when the bag is fully loaded. The interior is made with ripstop nylon, with zippered window mesh pockets to carry loose items, and neoprene pockets for gadgets and larger accessories. Finally, the bag includes the same abrasion and water-resistant tarpaulin bottom panel that is used on other Tenba Roadie, Messenger and Discovery bags.

The slim design of this bag allows it to slide effortlessly beneath the seat on any airplane, and its quick access side pockets put a beverage (on the left) and your passport (in the right pocket) within easy reach.

The Roadie Executive Backpack is available immediately at a suggested retail price of $169.95. To find more information about Roadies, and to see a full video demonstration of all Tenba products, visit http://www.tenba.com.

Adorama carries the Tenba Roadie Executive Backpack.

Samyang 24mm f/3.5 ED AS UMC Tilt-Shift Lens for Canon In Stock

Mon, 06 May 2013 11:06:21 CDT

B&H and Adorama have the Samyang 24mm f/3.5 ED AS UMC Tilt-Shift Lens for Canon in stock.

Get 0% Financing for 24 Months with Select Canon EOS Cinema Products

Mon, 06 May 2013 07:37:42 CDT

Adorama has 0% financing for 24 months on select Canon EOS Cinema Cameras/Lenses. If you're ready to start your feature film, now would be a good time to invest in filming equipment.

Canon EOS Rebel SL1 DSLR Camera (Body Only) In Stock

Mon, 06 May 2013 06:52:34 CDT

B&H, Adorama and Amazon now have the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 DSLR (Body Only) in stock.

Weekend Recap for April 28 - May 4, 2013

Sun, 05 May 2013 17:15:12 CDT

This is The-Digital-Picture.com's Weekend Recap for the week ending May 4th, 2013

In the news...

On Tuesday, Canon released a long anticipated firmware update for the Canon 5D Mark III. Along with various bug fixes, firmware version 1.2.1 enables uncompressed HDMI output and center-point autofocus with lens + extender combinations with an f/8 maximum aperture.

On Friday, Adorama began shipping the 24mm Tilt-Shift lens from Samyang. We have one headed our way and will be running it through our standardized testing in the not-so-distant future – so, stay tuned.

Also on Friday, we posted a news article about photographer William Bennett’s step-by-step guide for creating an inexpensive wireless tethering solution for the Canon 1D X. If you already own an external power source like William, you can enable wireless tethering for substantially less than $100.00. Also check out our tip for possibly avoiding the costly external power source.

In site news and reviews...

Bryan posted a pair of 70-200mm f/2.8 lens reviews this week.

On Monday, Bryan posted his review of the Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 SP Di VC USD Lens. Bryan praised the Tamron for having overall great image quality at a moderate price.

On Wednesday, Bryan posted his review of the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Lens. Bryan was less enthusiastic about the Sigma’s image quality – especially at f/2.8 – where it trails the Canon and Tamron lenses in sharpness and contrast.

Check Bryan’s reviews for full details on these lenses.

And, for our deal of the week…

On Monday, we posted a deal on from Adorama where you could get a Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens for $439.00 with free shipping and 6% rewards. That’s a $140.00 savings compared to the normal going rate.

This has been the The-Digital-Picture.com’s Weekend Recap. Thanks for listening, and as always, happy shooting!

PocketWizard Updates Beta Firmwares for MiniTT1, FlexTT5, PowerST4 & PowerMC2 Radio Triggers

Sat, 04 May 2013 14:22:10 CDT

From PocketWizard:

MiniTT1 & FlexTT5 for CANON - with 6D, T4i and 1D X Support

Latest Beta Release: May 3, 2013
The current BETA firmware for the MiniTT1 & FlexTT5 for Canon is 6.210. Click here for the release notes for MiniTT1/FlexTT5 Canon beta firmware version 6.210. The current OFFICIAL firmware release for MiniTT1 & FlexTT5 for Canon is 6.200 and instructions for downloading the firmware can be found here. Click here for Canon 6.200 release notes.

MiniTT1 & FlexTT5 for NIKON - with 600D and 3200D Support

Latest Beta Release: May 3, 2013
The current BETA firmware for the MiniTT1 & FlexTT5 for Nikon is 3.172. Click here for the release notes for MiniTT1/FlexTT5 Nikon beta firmware version 3.172. The current OFFICIAL firmware release for MiniTT1 & FlexTT5 for Nikon is 3.150 and instructions for downloading the firmware can be found here. Click here for Nikon 3.150 release notes.

PowerST4 for Elinchrom

Latest Beta Release: May 3, 2013
The current BETA firmware for the PowerST4 is 5.117. Click here for the release notes for the PowerST4 beta firmware version 5.117. Click here to learn more about PowerST4 Official Firmware Upgrade version 5.100.

PowerMC2 for Einstein E640 Flash

Latest Beta Release: May 3, 2013
The current BETA firmware for the PowerMC2 is 2.218. Click here for the release notes for the PowerMC2 beta firmware version 2.218. Click here to learn more about PowerMC2 Official Firmware Upgrade version 2.200

B&H carries the PocketWizard MiniTT1, FlexTT5 and PowerST4 radio triggering units.

Wireless Tethering for your 1D X for Less Than $100.00

Fri, 03 May 2013 13:47:16 CDT

The Canon WFT-E6A & WFT-E7A Wireless Transmitters allow for wireless tethering with compatible cameras such as the EOS 1D X and 1D C. Unfortunately, neither is an inexpensive accessory. However, photographer William Bennett has posted a guide for enabling wireless tethering on a Canon EOS 1D X DSLR Camera for a lot less - well under $100.00 if you already own a portable power source.

Check out William Bennett's step-by-step directions on his blog.

Tools Used in the Guide:

Netgear WNCE2001 Universal WiFi Internet Adapter or comparable device
Li-On Battery Pack rated for your adapter (already owned by author)
Computer/Laptop with Canon EOS Utility Software

We haven't tested it, but a battery-powered wireless router may make the costly external power supply unnecessary. [Sean]

Tamron Announces Special Mother's Day Rebates

Fri, 03 May 2013 10:46:05 CDT

Through May 13, Tamron has special Mother's Day rebates on select zoom lenses:

Tamron Mother's Day Rebates:

Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II Lens - $30.00 rebate
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens - $50.00 rebate

Tamron also has several other lenses eligible for rebates right now.

Updating the Site's Most Popular Cameras & Lenses List

Fri, 03 May 2013 09:35:50 CDT

With the recent home page update came a new feature on the site - the Site's Most Popular Cameras & Lenses list. I intend to update this list around the first of the month and now have April's list in place. While some positions have changed slightly, the names remain the same.

Lowepro Announces Photo Sport Pro 30L AW Camera Bag

Fri, 03 May 2013 07:49:11 CDT

From Lowepro:

The Photo Sport Pro 30L AW is a lightweight technical photo backpack for the active adventure photographer. Carry your pro-sized gear in the new larger addition to our award-winning Photo Sport family.

Get to your camera fast
Never miss the shot with a side access pocket allowing you to quickly grab your camera without ever having to take off the pack.

Removable camera compartment
Ultra-Cinch Camera Chamber™ secures gear while in motion preventing bouncing and jostling. Remove the camera compartment completely to turn the bag into a traditional daypack.

Zippered lid pocket
Get convenient access to personal items such as a phone, keys or snacks.

Adjustable shoulder straps
Get a custom, personalized, and comfortable fit by utilizing the adjustable shoulder straps. The high performance straps accommodates 16 to 19 in. (40 to 48 cm) torso lengths, measured from the C4 vertebrae to the top of the iliac crest.

Breathable suspension system
Trampoline-style, air-flow suspension system utilizes a high performance breathable mesh that provides cooling comfort to photographers carrying a heavy load.

Toploading design
Get quick and convenient access to your personal gear such as maps, food and clothing.

Technical fabrics
Lightweight, resilient and high-performance fabrics constructed of 210D triple-ripstop nylon with PU coating for improved durability.

Hydration ready
Stay hydrated while on the go with the 2L hydration-ready pocket. (hydration bladder not included)

Trekking pole (or ice axe) attachments points
Expand your carrying options with an easy and secure attachment system that will easily carry accessories such as trekking poles or ice axes.

All Weather AW Cover
Pull out the patented, built-in All Weather AW Cover™ to protect your gear from rain, snow, dust and sand in a pinch. It discreetly tucks away while not in use.

Fits:

Pro DSLR with grip, with attached 70-200mm f/2.8 lens
Battery charger, filters, flash and other accessories
2 liter hydration reservoir (not included)
Trekking poles
Personal items such as a hat, light jacket, snack, cell phone, keys, etc.

B&H has the Lowepro Photo Sport Pro 30L AW Camera Bag in stock.

Adorama Now Shipping Samyang 24mm f/3.5 ED AS UMC Tilt-Shift Lens

Fri, 03 May 2013 07:16:45 CDT

Adorama is now shipping the Samyang 24mm f/3.5 ED AS UMC Tilt-Shift Lens for Canon.