Canon & Nikon News and What's New (Excluding Deals) (Page 10) Report News & Deals

From Nikon:
 
Nikon's Newest Advanced Performance COOLPIX Cameras Provide Incredible Quality and Control for Those Serious About Capturing Stunning Images
 
World Renowned Optics and a Host of Innovative Technologies, Including the Use of a DX-Format Image Sensor, Provide Users with Premier Compacts for Shooting and Sharing
 
MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. announced two new advanced performance COOLPIX cameras, built for the customer seeking the best image quality possible with the convenience and ease-of-use of a compact camera. The Nikon COOLPIX A is the first COOLPIX to incorporate a DX-format sensor, similar to those found in many of Nikon’s coveted D-SLRs, which provides the highest image quality possible from a compact point-and-shoot. Additionally, the small yet powerful COOLPIX P330 fits comfortably into a shirt pocket, yet gives users the confidence to capture beautiful imagery through amazing optics, low-light capabilities and creative control.
 
“The introduction of the COOLPIX A, as Nikon’s flagship COOLPIX camera, provides uncompromised image quality and incredibly sharp detail in a compact point-and-shoot camera. As the first COOLPIX to use a DX-format sensor, the COOLPIX A will exceed expectations for its unsurpassed performance,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “The COOLPIX A, along with the COOLPIX P330, demonstrates the forward-looking direction of the Advanced Performance COOLPIX line, and packs all of the benefits of Nikon’s optical heritage and imaging experience into a compact, yet powerful package.”
 
Advanced Performance COOLPIX Cameras with Wi-Fi® Connectivity
For those who never settle for second best, this new duo presents the optimal choice to consistently capture high-quality images and HD video with outstanding clarity and detail. Thanks to their exceptional CMOS imaging sensors and world-class NIKKOR lenses, these cameras deliver brilliant photos amidst the action, even in low-light conditions. With compact designs and advanced feature sets that allow users to easily grow and improve their image or video shooting skills, these new COOLPIX cameras provide creative control and connectivity options for the photographer in everyone. These new cameras also join the ultra-zoom COOLPIX P520 and performance powerhouse COOLPIX P7700 in Nikon’s series of COOLPIX Advanced Performance cameras.
 
Once a still or video has been captured, both cameras let users share images instantly with family and friends when connected using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter1. This accessory pairs with the free downloadable Wireless Mobile Utility application1, which enables users to transfer their images and videos to compatible smart devices and tablets for easy sharing and viewing with others.
 
The COOLPIX A: Nikon’s First DX-Format COOLPIX Camera
Unlike any other COOLPIX camera, the new COOLPIX A is equipped with a DX-format CMOS sensor that enables users to achieve superior image quality previously only possible with a Nikon D-SLR. The combination of this 16.2-megapixel DX-format sensor and ultra-sharp prime NIKKOR lens firmly positions the COOLPIX A as the reigning flagship camera in the COOLPIX line.
 
The all-glass 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) prime lens has an f/2.8 aperture, allowing users to shoot with a shallow depth of field to blur backgrounds for professional-looking photos. Even when the sun goes down, the lens offers the ability to turn a fleeting glance into a flattering moonlit portrait with just a press of the shutter. Always ready for the spontaneous moment, the camera’s quick AF performance and 4 frames-per-second (fps) burst help users to consistently capture any moment with outstanding image quality.
 
For those who want to push their photography skills, the versatile COOLPIX A also offers advanced settings to allow shooters to have complete creative control to master nearly any shooting situation. With multiple Scene Modes, a familiar manual focus ring, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M), and the ability to shoot RAW/NEF image files, even a simple snapshot can be transformed into artistic expression.
 
Additionally, the COOLPIX A offers a variety of accessories to enhance the shooting experience, including the DF-CP1 Optical Viewfinder, the UR-E24 Adapter Ring for attaching lens hoods and filters, and the HN-CP18 metal Lens Hood, which helps protect the surface of the lens and restricts light from passing through without negatively influencing images. The camera also has a full size hot shoe port that makes the camera compatible with various accessories such as Nikon Speedlights.
 
The COOLPIX P330: Big Performance from a Tiny Camera
The COOLPIX P330 offers a useful 5x wide angle to telephoto (24mm-120mm, 35mm equivalent) zoom and cutting-edge features in a sleek, portable design for exceptional images and HD video. The P330 has a 1/1.7-inch, 12.2-megapixel backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor that offers users the ability to confidently capture vibrant photos with low noise. Additionally, the super-sharp f/1.8 lens is the fastest in the COOLPIX line, rendering photos and Full HD 1080p video with striking clarity in a variety of lighting conditions. The lens also includes Vibration Reduction image stabilization to further reduce the effects of image blur when shooting handheld. Designed for the user who wants a sophisticated camera with the option of an advanced feature set, the COOLPIX P330 includes manual controls (P,S,A,M) and can now capture NRW/RAW images.
 
The P330 also enables users to enhance their photography with the inclusion of various Scene Modes, as well as Nikon’s Easy Auto Mode for capturing beautiful imagery during scenic vacations, celebrations or everyday moments, all with the convenience of a small, portable size. Additionally, the camera incorporates Full HD Video with stereo sound, engaged with just a simple press of the dedicated video record button.
 
This high-performance camera also comes with built-in GPS capabilities so photographers can easily log even their most exotic travels by pinpointing the exact latitude and longitude where the image was captured.
 
Pricing and Availability
The COOLPIX A will be available in March 2013 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $1099.95* and will be offered in Black and Silver. The DF-CP1 Optical Viewfinder will be available for a suggested retail price of $449.96*, and the UR-E24 Adapter Ring and HN-CP18 Lens Hood will be sold together for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $129.96*; accessories will be available in March 2013. The COOLPIX P330 will also be available in March 2013 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $379.95* and will be offered in Black and White.
 
Preorder Opportunities:
 
Nikon COOLPIX A: B&H | Adorama
Nikon COOLPIX P3300: B&H | Adorama

 
Sigma has just released this stylized video highlighting their global vision and showing lenses from each of Sigma's new product categories.
 
Throughout the video (filmed entirely with Sigma lenses), various components used to create Sigma's new lenses can be seen.
 
Some featured lenses:

• Art - 35mm F1.4 DG HSM
• Contemporary - 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM
• Sports - 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM

B&H carries Sigma Lenses.

 
From Satechi:
 
SAN DIEGO – Feb. 27, 2013 – The Satechi BT Smart Trigger, available now, is the ideal “appccessory” for prosumer photographers, allowing them to easily manage their DSLR camera directly from an iOS device. The compact and lightweight wireless timer remote fits easily into any camera bag and features Bluetooth 4.0 technology with a range of 50 feet and a battery life of up to 10 years. The BT Smart Trigger is compatible with a wide range of cameras including the latest Canon EOS 5D Mark III, ESO 6D, Rebel T4i and EOS 60D. The Smart Trigger app is compatible with iPhone 5, iPad Mini and iPad.
 
The BT Smart Trigger app features multiple shooting modes giving photographers the freedom to easily capture the perfect shot during travels, outdoor adventures or everyday events.

• Regular Shot – This mode allows the iOS device to act as a wireless shutter. Touch the shutter control button to capture an image – ideal for a group shot where the photographer no longer needs to be left out.
• Manual Shot – Manual Shot mode gives photographers the ability to take long exposures while in bulb mode. This mode includes a switch to lock the shutter open to capture photographic techniques such as star trails, capturing fireworks or light painting.
• Timed Shot – For advanced photography tasks such as time-lapses, Time Shot mode turns the iOS device into an intervalometer to capture and stitch together images of cool videos of traffic, weather or blooming flowers.

The Satechi BT Smart Trigger is available for an introductory price of $44.99 at Amazon.com. The BT Smart Trigger app is available for free at the Apple App Store.
 
Compatibility with Android devices such as the Galaxy SIII and Galaxy Note 2 will be available March 2013.
 
Amazon carries the Satechi BT Smart Trigger.

From Tether Tools:
 
Feb. 25, 2013 (Scottsdale, Ariz.) - Tether Tools introduces the Go Vu and Local Vu monitor mount brackets, designed for the creative professional who needs to easily and securely mount small- to medium-sized monitors on tripods and stands. Both the Go Vu and Local Vu streamline the workspace thanks to their integrated VESA-compliant mounting interfaces, which allow for ultimate studio or on-location versatility.
 
The lightweight and durable aerospace aluminum Go Vu (#GOVU, $149.95) offers a maximum weight capacity of 35 lbs (15.88kg). It also features two different ways to mount monitors – using the 1/4”-20 tripod mount as well as the Arca-style quick release tripod attachment.
 
Likewise, the lightweight and durable aerospace aluminum Local Vu (#LOVU, $159.95) offers a maximum weight capacity of 35 lbs (15.88kg). It also features four different mount options for monitors – the 1/4”-20 tripod/ballhead mount, 3/8 tripod mount, 5/8” (16mm) baby junior stud (found on most studio stands, rollers, arms, and clamps), and the Arca-style quick release attachment.
 
The Go Vu and Local Vu can be used in many situations, but are recommended for location tethering, event and wedding slideshows, client presentations and photo booths. Both of these products are made in the United States and come with the Tether Tools Lifetime Warranty.
 
B&H carries Tether Tools products.

From Canon:
 
TOKYO, March 4, 2013—Canon Inc. announced today that the company has successfully developed a high-sensitivity 35 mm full-frame CMOS sensor exclusively for video recording. Delivering high-sensitivity, low-noise imaging performance, the new Canon 35 mm CMOS sensor*1 enables the capture of Full HD video even in exceptionally low-light environments.
 
The newly developed CMOS sensor features pixels measuring 19 microns square in size, which is more than 7.5-times the surface area of the pixels on the CMOS sensor incorporated in Canon's top-of-the-line EOS-1D X and other digital SLR cameras. In addition, the sensor's pixels and readout circuitry employ new technologies that reduce noise, which tends to increase as pixel size increases. Thanks to these technologies, the sensor facilitates the shooting of clearly visible video images even in dimly lit environments with as little as 0.03 lux of illumination, or approximately the brightness of a crescent moon—a level of brightness in which it is difficult for the naked eye to perceive objects. When recording video of astral bodies, while an electron-multiplying CCD,*2 which realizes approximately the same level of perception as the naked eye, can capture magnitude-6 stars, Canon's newly developed CMOS sensor is capable of recording faint stars with a magnitude of 8.5 and above.*3
 
Using a prototype camera employing the newly developed sensor, Canon successfully captured a wide range of test video,*4 such as footage recorded in a room illuminated only by the light from burning incense sticks (approximately 0.05–0.01 lux) and video of the Geminid meteor shower. The company is looking to such future applications for the new sensor as astronomical and natural observation, support for medical research, and use in surveillance and security equipment. Through the further development of innovative CMOS sensors, Canon aims to expand the world of new imaging expression.
 
Canon Marketing Japan Inc. will be exhibiting a prototype camera that incorporates the newly developed 35 mm full-frame CMOS sensor and sample footage captured with the camera at SECURITY SHOW 2013 (www.shopbiz.jp/en/ss/), which will be held from Tuesday, March 5, to Friday, March 8, at the Tokyo International Exhibition Center in Tokyo, Japan.
 
*1 An imaging element (aspect ratio: 16:9) that supports the largest image circle size possible when shooting with a Canon EF lens.
*2 A CCD sensor with a readout mechanism that multiplies electrons after being converted from light. Applications include nighttime surveillance and the capture of astral bodies and nighttime nature scenes.
*3 The brightness of a star decreases 2.5-times with each 1 magnitude increase.
*4 Recording of test video footage was made possible through cooperation from ZERO Corporation.
 
See a video using the newly devloped sensor here (bottom of page).

 

This is The-Digital-Picture.com's Weekend Recap for the week ending March 2nd, 2013
 
In the news...
 
On Sunday, the Canon Store once again ran a 20-30% off sale on select refurbished DSLR cameras and lenses. Unfortunately, the selection of in stock gear was more sparse than usual and the inventory did not get replenished before the sale ended on Wednesday.
 
On Monday, we reported that Canon’s new center-pinch lens caps were starting to appear in stock in various sizes. Long-time Canon shooters will appreciate the new design which makes removing the lens cap with the hood in place significantly easier.
 
On Wednesday, Zeiss announced plans to expand its production site in Cambridge, England. Zeiss noted that increased international demand for its products led to the need for expansion.
 
Also on Wednesday, Adobe announced its Photoshop Touch App would now be available on smartphones. Photoshop Touch is an advanced photo editing app that features layers, selection tools, filters, color and tonal adjustments. Until this announcement, Photoshop Touch was only available on tablet devices.
 
On Friday, Think Tank Photo announced two new accessories – the Low Rider Strap and the Pro DSLR Battery Holder, as well as a new, Limited Edition Pixel Pocket Rocket CF card holder. The Low Rider Strap allows you to secure your camera bag to a rolling suitcase for convenient travel, while the Pro DSLR Battery Holder is a soft, compact case for carrying two pro-size camera batteries.
 
Also on Friday, PocketWizard announced the PlusX Transceiver. Retailing for only $99.00, the PlusX is PocketWizard’s budget-level radio triggering device. The PlusX is not as full-featured as the Plus III, yet takes many design cues from its more expensive big brother – like rugged build quality and an internal antenna. The PlusX features 10 channels, a back-lit channel dial, auto-relay mode, and superior range.
 
And, for our deal of the week…
 
On Wednesday, we published a deal from Adorama where you could get a Crumpler 5 Million Dollar Home Shoulder Bag for half off – only $49.95 with free shipping. The bag even came with a free Crumpler camera strap.
 
This has been the The-Digital-Picture.com’s Weekend Recap. Thanks for listening, and as always, happy shooting!

From CPN Europe:
 
Capturing still frames from video that are equal in quality to conventionally taken photographs has long been the Holy Grail for many photographers. Has the 4K Canon EOS-1D C DSLR finally made this a reality? CPN writer Ian Farrell investigate and discusses the EOS 1D C with award-winning cinematographer Abraham Joffe.
 
See the full CPN article here.

 
From PocketWizard:
 
Simplest PocketWizard ever is ideal entry into the PocketWizard wireless system of products
 
So. Burlington, VT – March 1, 2013 – LPA Design, manufacturers of PocketWizard Photo Products, the world leader in wireless control of cameras, flash lighting and light meters, today announces the immediate availability of its new PlusX Auto-Sensing Transceiver.
 
The high-quality PocketWizard PlusX is the perfect entry into the PocketWizard Wireless System with the same range and reliability of its renowned Plus line of radios. Whether new to off-camera flash or remote camera triggering, or a seasoned professional looking to expand their PocketWizard wireless triggering system, the PlusX is the perfect choice. And as the user’s technical needs grow, the versatile PlusX will continue to work with any other PocketWizard radios that a photographer adds to their gear box.
 
The 10 Channel PlusX uses PocketWizard’s patented “Auto-Sensing Transceiver Technology” which means it will automatically switch between transmit and receive as needed. Users just turn it on, connect it to the flash or camera and set the channel using its simple, rotary-dial. The PlusX automatically figures out what it needs to do to trigger remote flashes or cameras. Using the same side-profile design of the PocketWizard Plus III radio, the PlusX has an internal antenna to minimize obstruction and increase durability.
 
“The new PlusX transceiver adds to the legendary Plus reliability that so many photographers have come to trust on all their photographic assignments,” said Dave Schmidt, Vice President of Marketing at LPA Design, the company that manufacturers PocketWizard Photo Products. “Working on a budget should not mean sacrificing performance or reliability.”
 
The PlusX is compatible with all PocketWizard transmitters and receivers including PocketWizard-enabled photo gear from Profoto, Dynalite, Norman, Photogenic and Sekonic light meters. The PocketWizard Wireless System allows for total flexibility with whatever lights or cameras a photographer may be working with.
 
PlusX Features include:
 
10 Channels
With the PlusX’s 10 digitally coded Standard Channels, users can claim their own channel for exclusive triggering when working with other photographers at crowded events. Photographers can use different channels for different setups and select them simply and intuitively with the turn of a dial. And these 10 channels are compatible with every PocketWizard ever made1 set to Standard Channels 1 – 10. (1radios of the same frequency; in the United States, the PocketWizard PlusX operates on an FCC-approved frequency of 344MHz. In other markets it operates on a CE-approved frequency of 433MHz)
 
Backlit Channel Dial
Setting channels is as easy as turning a dial. The backlit channel dial clearly displays the channel and because the backlight consumes so little power it stays on all the time for convenience.
 
Internal Antenna
The PlusX features a durable, side profile design with an unobtrusive, internal antenna minimizing visual obstruction between the photographer and their subject. By utilizing an internal antenna, there’s no chance to kink or break it when on location. The total height of the transceiver and antenna is 4.2 inches, and it weighs less than 4 ounces, including batteries.
 
Easily Connected / Cable Port
On the user’s camera, the PlusX slides into the hot shoe with no cables required. For remotes, it features one do-it-all miniphone (3.5mm or 1/8”) sync port. The miniphone connector is much more reliable than a PC connection and every PlusX comes complete with a miniphone-to-miniphone cable, a miniphone-to-phono (1/4" or 6.3mm) adapter for triggering the majority of modern flashes, and a miniphone to locking PC cable for triggering some remote speedlights or for using a PlusX on-camera when the user can’t put it in a hot shoe. Other miniphone connector cables are available for major brands of lighting equipment in a variety of lengths. Dedicated remote camera triggering cables are also available for popular camera systems.
 
Auto-Sensing Transceiver
With PocketWizard’s patented Auto-Sensing Transceiver technology, the PlusX Transceiver will instantly and intelligently switch between transmitter and receiver modes keeping setup as simple as possible. The PlusX may be set to transmit (Tx) only, when desired.
 
Auto-Relay Mode
PocketWizard’s Auto-Sensing Transceiver technology lets users trigger a remote camera in sync with remote flashes using only three PocketWizard radios: the one in their hands, a PlusX cabled to a remote camera, and the one connected to a remote flash. The PlusX cabled to a remote camera will receive a radio signal and trigger the camera’s motor drive, then switch to transmit mode and trigger PocketWizard-connected remote flashes, all automatically. The sequence can be started by simply pressing the TEST button of any PocketWizard Transmitter. Remote cameras require remote shutter release cables.
 
Status Indicator/Battery Life Indicator
The PlusX features a tri-color LED status indicator that serves two functions. When the PlusX sends or receives a triggering signal, the LED will glow red. During normal operation, the indicator will blink a single green blink meaning it is operating normally and the battery life is above 50%. It will blink a double amber blink when the battery is below 50% but above 25% and it will blink three red blinks when the battery life is below 25% and it’s crucial to replace the batteries.
 
Transmit Only Mode
There are times when a photographer only wants their radio to transmit, usually when two or more photographers are sharing a set of lights. By enabling transmit only mode, users can disable the receive mode and auto relay functions to make sure their radio is just transmitting.
 
Range and Reliability
PocketWizard Plus radios are known for their range and reliability. Although the PlusX costs less than other PocketWizard radios, users will still get the range and reliability they expect from a PocketWizard product.
 
Sync Speed
Ultra-fast microprocessors allow for reliable sync speeds of 1/250 seond for focal plane shutters and 1/500 second for leaf shutters.
 
B&H has the PocketWizard PlusX Transceiver in stock.

B&H and Adorama have the Nikon WR 1 Wireless Remote Control Transceiver available for preorder.

Update: B&H and Adorama also have the Nikon WR-R10 Wireless Remote Controller Transceiver and the Nikon WR-T10 Wireless Remote Controller Transmitter available for preorder.

From Think Tank Photo:
 
Low Rider Strap Split Pad Design Slips Over Rolling Luggage Handles
 
There is one bond that unites most professional photographers: the burden of having to carry multiple bags and heavy loads from one shoot to the next. To aid you in this task we've released the Low Rider Strap. With the Low Rider Strap you simply slip the split pad design over the handle of your rolling luggage and tighten the side straps. Once having done so you are now able to haul two bags with a far lower and stable center of gravity. This approach is easier than stacking one bag on top of another. This counterbalanced, low-set load keeps bags balanced and prevents sloshing and sliding. This strap can be attached to any bag with D-rings, such as Think Tank Photo's Urban Disguise shoulder bags.
 
Features:

• Hang your shoulder bag off most pieces of 2-wheeled rolling luggage
• Comfortable shoulder strap adapts to any shoulder bag with d-rings or shoulder strap attachment points (Urban Disguise, Speed Convertibles)
• Included tri-glides to prohibit shoulder strap from slipping over time
• Non-slip material keeps strap on your shoulder and easily adjustable on either side

Specifications:
 
Strap Length: 19 - 70.5”, 0.9” Thick at Cushioned Pad x 3” Tall (48.2 - 179.1 x 2.3 x 7.6cm)
Weight: 0.5lbs (0.2kg)
 
Pro DSLR Battery Holder
 
The Pro DSLR Battery Holder is a soft, compact case for carrying two pro-size camera batteries for either Canon or Nikon bodies. It joins our line-up of photography battery, SD-card, CF-card, and photography filter accessory holders and wallets. It holds two pro-size camera batteries and its slim, compact design folds in half for easy storage.
 
Features:

• Slim, compact design folds in half for easy and safe battery storage
• Individual pockets for each battery
• Flattens when empty

Gear Profile:

• Holds two pro-size batteries for Canon 1D and Nikon D3/D4 series cameras

Specifications:
 
Exterior Dimensions: 5.5” W x 4” H x 0.4” D (14 x 10.1 x 1 cm)
Weight: 0.02lbs (0.01kg)
 
Also check out the Limited Edition Pixel Pocket Rocket
 
Get them while they're hot! The Limited Edition Pixel Pocket Rocket CF card carrier was manufactured in a one-time production run and will be discontinued once inventory runs out. It truly is a one-time limited edition. Made of attractive two-tone rip-stop nylon, it holds Compact Flash or XQD memory cards while keeping them safe and organized.
 
Note: Use the links from this site to get a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Think Tank Photo!

B&H has the Nikon MB-D15 Multi Power Battery Pack (for D7100) available for preorder.

From Canon:
 
Firmware Version 1.0.2.0 incorporates the following fix:
Fixes a phenomenon in which the focal length may not change when the control ring's function is to control the step zoom, and the control ring is turned slowly, click-by-click. (In AUTO, SCN, or Movie mode, the default function for the control ring is to control the step zoom.)
 
* Please note that this phenomenon does not always occur with every affected product.
 
Firmware Version 1.0.2.0 is for cameras with firmware Version 1.0.1.0 or Version 1.0.0.0. If the camera's firmware is already Version 1.0.2.0, it is not necessary to update the firmware.
Please note that, once the camera is updated to the latest version, it cannot be restored to a previous version.
 
How to Identify Cameras eligible for the Firmware Update:
All PowerShot S100 Digital Compact Cameras are eligible for this firmware update.
 
Download:
 
Canon PowerShot S100 Firmware v1.0.2.0: Windows | Macintosh
 
B&H carries the Canon PowerShot S100 Digital Camera.

From Canon:
 
Firmware Version 1.0.2.0 incorporates the following fixes and improvements:
1. Fixes a phenomenon in which the focal length may not change when the control ring's function is to control the step zoom, and the control ring is turned slowly, click-by-click. (In AUTO, SCN, or Movie mode, the default function for the control ring is to control the step zoom.)
 
* Please note that this phenomenon does not always occur with every affected product.
 
2. Changes the camera's specification in accordance with the specification of iOS 5/6 so that the Wi-Fi connection between the camera and an iOS device will not disconnect after one minute, when the PowerShot S110 is set as an Access Point and an iOS device is connected to that Access Point.
 
The latest version of Canon Camera Window iOS App (1.2.0 or later) is available for download from Apple's App Store. Please perform this update. Sharing images on social media sites may not be possible with Canon CameraWindow. However, sharing images on social media sites is possible through the application installed in the iOS device, at this time.
 
Firmware Version 1.0.2.0 is for cameras with firmware Version 1.0.1.0 or Version 1.0.0.0. If the camera's firmware is already Version 1.0.2.0, it is not necessary to update the firmware.
Please note that, once the camera is updated to the latest version, it cannot be restored to a previous version.
 
How to Identify Cameras eligible for the Firmware Update:
Please check the serial number on the bottom of the camera. This firmware update is for products with the following serial numbers.

• Products whose sixth digit from the left is "4" or less [*****4******]

Products with eligible serial numbers that contain a blue marking inside the battery cover near the hinge have had this firmware update already applied.
 
Download:
 
Canon PowerShot S110 Firmware v1.0.2.0: Windows | Macintosh
 
B&H carries the Canon PowerShot S110 Digital Camera.

B&H has the 52mm Canon Mark II Center-Pinch Lens Cap in stock.
 
Canon Mark II Center-Pinch Lens Caps In Stock:

• Canon E-52 II 52mm Lens Cap
• Canon E-58 II 58mm Lens Cap

From DxO:
 
02/27/2013
 
129 new lens / camera combinations have been added to the DxO Optics Modules library, providing support for Canon, Nikkor, Sigma and Konica lenses for Canon, Nikon, Fuji and Sony cameras.
 
To see supported and planned combinations, click on the link below then select the second tab.
 
Supported or planned combinations
 
New DxO Optics Modules:
 
Canon | Fujifilm | Nikon | Sony
 
B&H carries DxO Optics Pro.

From Adobe:
 
SAN JOSE, CALIF. — Feb. 27, 2013 — Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced the immediate availability of a new version of Adobe Photoshop Touch, optimized for iPhone, iPod touch, and Android smart phones. Inspired by the highly successful Photoshop Touch for tablets, the phone app brings core features of Photoshop desktop software to mobile devices and offers similar intuitive, touch-based gestures and features.
 
“Mobile phones are increasingly becoming the primary tool for people to take and edit photos," said Winston Hendrickson, vice president products, Creative Media Solutions, Adobe. “Adobe is dedicated to serving our customers’ evolving creative workflow and we heard, loud and clear, that Photoshop fans wanted some core Adobe imaging magic on their smartphones.”
 
Adobe Photoshop Touch for phone offers powerful new capabilities for smartphone users

• Enhance images using popular Photoshop features such as layers, selection tools, filters, tonal and color adjustments
• Apply effects and add graphical text for endless creative possibilities
• Edit images as large as 12 megapixels with layers
• Combine images together quickly using the Scribble Selection feature, and easily refine your selection with the Refine Edge tool
• Automatically sync images to Adobe Creative Cloud™ with free 2GB of storage

"Photoshop Touch is a great way to work on an image on my mobile phone. The 400 percent touch zoom and organized interface in Photoshop Touch for phone made enhancing my images fun and easy,” said Brian Yap, creative director, Boxing Clever. “Working with curve adjustments and filters that use slider controls is especially intuitive."
 
“Adobe Photoshop Touch for phone offers great depth and value with layering and blending features,” said Richard Gray, mobile photographer, educator and blogger, iphoggy.com. “I’ll be using Photoshop Touch for phone in class with my students this year as we look at the more artistic end of the creative process with dreamscapes and surreal images.”
 
“The depth of selection tool options offered in Adobe Photoshop Touch for phone is unique to the photo compositing app market,” said Dan Marcolina, Marcolina Design & MarcolinaSlate LLC, author of iPhone Obsessed. “Now I, and other iPhonegraphers, can do even more exacting edge editing on the device where the image originated—our mobile phones.”
 
Adobe Create Cloud Workflow Integration
Photoshop Touch for phone is integrated with Adobe Creative Cloud and includes access to 2GB of Creative Cloud storage with a free account. Users can sync photos and projects to Creative Cloud, and then continue working with the files from a tablet or Photoshop desktop software. Creative Cloud is a radical rethinking of the entire creative process and an industry-defining shift in creative expression and inspiration, where members can explore, create, publish and share their work across devices, the desktop and the Web. Visit Adobe Creative Cloud for more information.
 
Pricing and Availability
Adobe Photoshop Touch for phone is immediately available in the Apple App Store and Google Play for US$4.99. For iOS devices, the app requires iOS 5, iPhone 4S and iPod touch 5th generation; Android phones must run Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) or later.
 
Adobe Create Cloud Workflow Integration
Photoshop Touch for phone is integrated with Adobe Creative Cloud and includes access to 2GB of Creative Cloud storage with a free account. Users can sync photos and projects to Creative Cloud, and then continue working with the files from a tablet or Photoshop desktop software. Creative Cloud is a radical rethinking of the entire creative process and an industry-defining shift in creative expression and inspiration, where members can explore, create, publish and share their work across devices, the desktop and the Web. Visit Adobe Creative Cloud for more information.

From Zeiss:
 
New application laboratories, sales and service offices and customer facilities
 
CAMBRIDGE/UK, 27.02.2013. - The UK manufacturing and sales divisions of Carl Zeiss have cemented their roots in Cambridge with an expansion of their existing production site and the construction of new application laboratories, sales and service offices and customer facilities.
 
Coldhams Lane in Cambridge has been home to Carl Zeiss Microscopy Ltd for some years. Due to the sustained growth in international orders, the business has acquired neighbouring premises in order to increase production of their scanning electron microscopes, including EVO, ΣIGMA and process specific tools. This provided opportune timing for the UK Sales and Service business, Carl Zeiss Ltd, to relocate from Welwyn Garden City to Cambridge where one larger ZEISS campus could be formed. The new building, located at 509 Coldhams Lane, has taken on Head Office status for both Carl Zeiss Microscopy Ltd and Carl Zeiss Ltd. The new facilities include five application laboratories for electron and light microscopes as well as demonstration and training facilities for surgical microscopes, medical diagnostic equipment, camera lenses, binoculars and scopes.
 
The first recorded sale in the UK for the German-owned company stems back to 1851. Furthermore, as Cambridge Scientific Instruments, the company designed and developed the world’s first commercial scanning electron microscope in 1965. It is clear from today’s modern business that its long history has paved the way for its success as an international leader in the field of optics and opto-electronics. Paul Adderley, Managing Director for Carl Zeiss Ltd, commented “Customers from several of the Carl Zeiss business groups, including Microscopy, Medical Technology, Camera Lenses and Sports Optics, will be able to visit us in Cambridge, the hub for innovative technology, for product demonstrations and expert applications support in our new facilities.”
 
The Cambridge site is one of 20 ZEISS construction projects currently underway around the world. The end goal is to achieve a modern working environment for all employees with a consistent corporate design and welcoming environment for customers.
 
B&H carries Zeiss lenses.

Nikon now has the following COOLPIX User's Manuals availalbe for download (PDF):

• Nikon COOLPIX L28 - English | Spanish
• Nikon COOLPIX S31 - English | Spanish
• Nikon COOLPIX S5200 - English | Spanish
• Nikon COOLPIX S6500 - English | Spanish
• Nikon COOLPIX S9400/S9500 - English | Spanish
• Nikon COOLPIX P520 - English | Spanish

B&H carries Nikon COOLPIX cameras.

In addition to the official sample pictures found on Nikon's website, Nikon France has published a set of D7100 sample pictures on flickr.

The Nikon 1 J3 User's Manual is now available for download.
 
Download:
Nikon 1 J3 User's Manual (PDF) - English | Spanish

From AdNews:

"Canon marketing boss Darren Ryan, who steered the brand's acclaimed 'World of EOS' campaigns, has resigned his post after seven years.
 
Ryan will finish on 26 April as general manager of marketing – Canon Consumer Imaging. A search for a replacement is already “well underway” according to Canon."

Read the entire article here.

From Nikon:
 
The WU-1a and WU-1b are USB wireless adapters that can establish a two way wireless connection between specific cameras and iOS and Android smart devices and tablets. The USB connections on the WU-1a and WU-1b are different so it is important that the correct adapter is used for the specific camera.
 
The table below confirms which cameras are compatible with each adapter.

	WU-1a	WU-1b
D-SLR	D5300, D3200	D600
Nikon 1		J3, S1, V2
COOLPIX	P520

The Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility (“app”) is used in combination with the WU-1a and WU-1b to download pictures from the camera and to release the camera shutter remotely. Click here for further information regarding operating system and mobile device compatibility.

From Adobe:
 
Welcome to the Adobe® Photoshop® Camera Raw 7.4 plug-in release candidate on Adobe Labs. A "release candidate" label indicates that this update is well tested but would benefit from additional community testing before it is distributed automatically to all of our customers. The Camera Raw 7.4 update includes support for many new cameras and lens profiles.
 
The Camera Raw plug-in provides easy access within Adobe Photoshop CS6 to the raw image formats produced by many leading professional and midrange digital cameras. For more information on the Camera Raw plug-in please visit the Camera Raw pages on Adobe.com.
 
The Camera Raw team would like the community to help verify the quality of the plug-in through normal usage as this will ensure that the plug-in is tested on a diversity of hardware and software configurations not available internally at Adobe. If you do experience an issue with this release candidate please report it within the Camera Raw discussion forum.
 
Features:
 
Camera Raw 7.4 Release Candidate includes a correction to the demosaic algorithms for Fujifilm cameras with the X-Trans sensor. This specifically impacts the following cameras:

• Fujifilm X-Pro1
• Fujifilm X-E1
• Fujifilm X100S
• Fujifilm X20

New Camera Support
 
The following new cameras are now supported:

• Canon EOS 1D C
• Casio Exilim EX-ZR700
• Fujifilm X100s
• Fujifilm X20
• Hasselblad Lunar
• Leica M
• Nikon 1 V3
• Nikon 1 S1
• Pentax MX-1

New Lens Profile Support:

Lens Name	Lens Mount
Canon 24-70 f/4L IS	Canon
Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM	Sony, Pentax
Sigma APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM	Sony
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012	Canon, Sigma, Nikon
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013	Canon, Sigma

Fixed Issues:
 
The following issues have been fixed in Camera Raw 7.4 release candidate:

• The grayscale visualization associated with Noise Reduction Luminance was visible after mouse release. This occurred when positive Clarity was present.
• The command/control + A “select all” keyboard shortcut did not select all photos.
• Modifying the brush size using the Right-click + Drag method did not increase or decrease the brush size by the desired amount.
• The crop overlay tool resized incorrectly when used in conjunction with the “Constrain to Crop” checkbox in the Lens Correction panel.
• Hovering the mouse over a local adjustment pin would turn off the desired mask.
• Horizontal artifacts occasionally appeared in DNG files.
• Improved interactive performance at intermediate zoom levels (e.g., 33% and 66%)

Downloads:
 
Adobe Camera Raw 7.4 Release Candidate: Windows | Macintosh
DNG Converter 7.4 Release Candidate: Windows | Macintosh

From Adobe:
 
Welcome to the Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4.4 release candidate on Adobe Labs. A "release candidate" label indicates that this update is well tested but would benefit from additional community testing before it is distributed automatically to all of our customers. The Lightroom 4.4 update includes support for many new cameras and lens profiles.
 
The Lightroom team would like the community to help verify the quality of this update through normal usage as this will ensure that the application is tested on a diversity of hardware and software configurations not available internally at Adobe.
 
If you experience an issue with this release candidate, please submit a bug report. For more information on Lightroom 4, please visit the Lightroom product page on Adobe.com.
 
Features:
 
Lightroom 4.4 Release Candidate includes a correction to the demosaic algorithms for Fujifilm cameras with the X-Trans sensor. This specifically impacts the following cameras:

• Fujifilm X-Pro1
• Fujifilm X-E1
• Fujifilm X100S
• Fujifilm X20

New Camera Support
 
The following new cameras are now supported:

• Canon EOS 1D C
• Casio Exilim EX-ZR700
• Fujifilm X100s
• Fujifilm X20
• Hasselblad Lunar
• Leica M
• Nikon 1 V3
• Nikon 1 S1
• Pentax MX-1

New Lens Profile Support:

Lens Name	Lens Mount
Canon 24-70 f/4L IS	Canon
Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM	Sony, Pentax
Sigma APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM	Sony
Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012	Canon, Sigma, Nikon
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013	Canon, Sigma

Fixed Issues:
 
The following issues have been fixed in Lightroom 4.4 release candidate:

• The crop overlay tool resized incorrectly when used in conjunction with the “Constrain to Crop” checkbox in the Lens Correction panel
• Background graphics were not correctly rendered within the Book Module
• The supplied lens profile for the Sony RX-1 did not contain vignette information
• Previews of photos in portrait orientation were blurry when viewed in the filmstrip in the Develop module. (Mac only)
• Stack badges displayed the wrong count when creating new stack that included a preexisting stack.
• The Filter scrollbar within the Library module was not rendering properly.

Download:
 
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.4 Release Candidate: Windows | Macintosh
 
B&H carries Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.

The Canon Camera Museum has published a technical report on the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM & EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lenes.
 
Purchase opportunities:
Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens: B&H | Adorama | Amazon | BuyDig
Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens: B&H | Adorama | Amazon