Canon and Sony News for Dec 2012 (Page 2)

From Adobe:

December 19, 2012 For convenience and reliability, we highly recommend that you apply this update directly from within Photoshop. To do so, choose Help > Updates in Photoshop CS6 and apply all of the updates listed under Adobe Photoshop CS6 in the Adobe Application Manager.

The Adobe Photoshop 13.0.3 update enables support for new HiDPI displays on the Macintosh platform for a dramatic improvement in image fidelity and resolution. This update applies to all languages of Adobe Photoshop CS6.

You can download the update here.

Installation instructions:

1. Disable all virus protection software.
2. Ensure that the folder on your hard drive containing Photoshop is named "Adobe Photoshop CS6."
3. Double-click the "AdobePatchInstaller" application. If the updater reports that it cannot find the application to update, uninstall Photoshop CS6, and then reinstall the application (using the default folder name "Adobe Photoshop CS6"). To uninstall Photoshop, navigate to the "Applications/Utilites/Adobe Installers" folder and run "Uninstall Adobe Photoshop CS6" to remove the original installation of Photoshop. Once the removal is complete, reinstall Photoshop, and then run the updater.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

GlacierWorks has a captivating gigapixel image of the Khumbu glacier taken from the Pumori viewpoint near Mount Everest by photographer David Breashears. (thanks Lars)

From PocketWizard:

PocketWizard Photo Products Announces ControlTL Firmware Update for Canon 5D Mark III

Update provides compatibility for Canon version MiniTT1® and FlexTT5® radios with the Canon 5D Mark III digital SLR camera

So. Burlington, VT – December 19, 2012 – LPA Design, manufacturers of PocketWizard Photo Products, the world leader in wireless control of cameras, flash lighting and light meters, announces today a new update to its ControlTL firmware for Canon versions of its MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 radios. Available now, firmware version 6.200 for Canon includes compatibility with the Canon 5D Mark III digital SLR camera. Any current owner of the ControlTL system can easily install this version via USB connection and update for free using the PocketWizard Utility. PocketWizard Utility version 1.54 or later is required before installing this update.

“This latest release of ControlTL firmware further strengthens PocketWizard’s compatibility with the Canon brand of digital cameras and flashes,” said Dave Schmidt, Vice President of Marketing at LPA Design, the company that manufacturers PocketWizard Photo Products. “Our engineers worked tirelessly to make this update available to our customers that use the Canon 5D Mark III camera. Our goal is to provide photographers with frequent important upgrades such as this because it allows owners of PocketWizard radios to stay current as new cameras and flash units are introduced.”

Compatibility for the Canon EOS-1D X is not available at this time but firmware for this camera should be available in the near future. Learn more about our firmware development plan here.

For more information on how to update PocketWizard products via USB connection and the PocketWizard Utility 1.55 visit:
http://www.pocketwizard.com/support/downloads/

Resources:
Firmware version 6.200 release notes, click here.
Canon Quick Guide, click here
Full Canon Wiki Manual, click here.

From Nikon:

This software is for upgrading the COOLPIX S800c firmware from v1.0 or v1.1 to v1.2. Verify your camera’s firmware version using the instructions below. If this latest version is already installed in your camera, you need not update the firmware.

Be sure that you have read and understand the terms of the license agreement before initiating download of this software from the links at the bottom of this page.

Modifications enabled in this version

• The position information the GPS function attached to images was sometimes incorrect. This issue has been resolved.
• If images were captured before the playback mode icon is displayed, the date and time recorded was incorrect. This issue has been resolved.

How to verify your cameras current firmware version

If the latest firmware version is already installed on your S800c you need not proceed with download or installation of this Firmware Upgrade. The current firmware version can be verified from the Firmware version item in the camera's setup menu.

1. Turn on the camera.
2. Press the MENU button is shooting or playback mode, and tap Setup.
3. Drag the screen down until Firmware version is displayed, and then tap Firmware Version.
4. The camera's firmware version will be displayed.
5. Turn off the camera.

Quick Install Guide

This is the quick install guide.

Power the camera from AC adapter unit or use a fully charged battery.

1. Create a new folder with an appropriate name on your computer's hard drive.
2. Download the Windows (.EXE) or Macintosh (.DMG) file from the links at the bottom of this page to the folder created in step 1.
3. Run the downloaded file to create a folder called S800CUpdate which contains the firmware folder.
4. Use a card reader or similar device to copy the firmware folder to the root directory of a formatted SD memory card.
5. Insert the memory card into the camera's memory card slot and turn on the camera.
6. Tap Firmware version in the camera's setup menu and follow instructions displayed to upgrade the firmware.
7. After the upgrade is complete, turn the camera off and remove the memory card.
8. Access the Firmware version item in the camera's setup menu to confirm that the firmware has been upgraded.

Download the Firmware Update 1.2: Windows | Macintosh

From RedRock Micro:

DSLR, Digital Cinema and Video Camera Rigs Get Softer Pad, Tool-less Counterweights, Other Improvements

Hollywood, CA and Dallas, TX - Redrock Micro, the recognized leader in affordable professional-grade cinema accessories, announced today the immediate availability of enhanced camera support rigs that improve performance, comfort and reliability for camera operators. Among these upgrades are the microShoulderPad with FieldTech™, tool-less microBalance QR counterweights, and improved hand grips. The new improvements now come standard on all Redrock rigs, and are available as upgrades to existing customers.

New microShoulderPad with FieldTech Molds to Shape of Shoulder

The completely redesigned camera shoulder pad improves comfort and balance, critical requirements for long shooting days. The new microShoulderPad uses super-tough Cordura® and breathable 3D mesh, and is filled with soft free-forming microPoly beads that actively adapt to each shoulder's shape and slope. The microShoulderPad promotes proper alignment and better stability with this uniquely balanced pressure distribution, and ensures a new level of comfort and support.

microBalance QR Delivers Tool-Less Counterweights and Battery Mount

Building on the success of Redrock's microBalance weights, the newly designed microBalance QR rig counterweight speeds rig balance and stability with one-of-a-kind features.

Weights can be added or removed just by pushing a button, and without any tools. Multiple weights can be added or removed at once. Battery mounting patterns on each weight enable brick batteries (such as Anton Bauer, Switronix, Sony, etc.) to be attached directly to the microBalance QR, making the battery mount quick release as well.

microBalance QR can be set up horizontally or vertically, and can be adjusted for left-right balance in the vertical setup, a capability unique to Redrock. These features result in the fastest, full-featured camera counterbalance system available today.

Enhanced Handgrips Improve Grip, Add Features

Redrock's rig hand grips have also been updated with improved design and features. The new diamond pattern reduces potential for moisture build-up while the soft rubber surface keeps things comfortable. The added double-lock on each grip end offers an additional option for adding mounting points or rig extensions. A popular use of this feature is attaching the microRemote fingerwheel to the grip when grips are inverted, such as on the ManCam rig.

Pricing and Availability

The new components are shipping now and are available on all Redrock Micro rigs at no additional cost. Redrock also offers components individually so customers can update their existing Redrock rigs to the latest features. All upgrades are available standalone or in upgrade bundles. As with all Redrock products, customers can purchase direct from Redrock Micro's website at redrockmicro.com, or from any Redrock worldwide authorized reseller.

B&H carries Redrock Micro products.

From Toshiba:

TOKYO—Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO: 6502) today announced that it will launch a new line of high performance CompactFlash^®1 (CF) memory cards, the EXCERIA PRO™² series, expressly targeting the digital single lens reflex camera market. The initial line-up of 16GB, 32GB, 64GB cards will come to market in spring of 2013 and offer the world's highest level³ read and write speeds. EXCERIA PRO™ will position Toshiba to meet the demands of the high-end DSLR market, including high resolution image capture, sustained continuous shooting, HD video recording and high speed data transfers to other devices.

The EXCERIA PRO™ CF cards integrate Toshiba's high performance NAND flash memory and specially developed dedicated firmware. They achieve a read speed of 160MB/s and write speed of 150MB/s⁴, the highest level yet reported.

The new cards are compliant with the CompactFlash Association (CFA) standard CompactFlash^® Specification Revision 6.0 and compatible with the UDMA7 high speed interface, ensuring they can support high performance DSLRs to the full. The cards are also compatible with the latest Video Performance Guarantee standard, VPG-20. VPG-20 secures Full HD video capture streams at a minimum write speed of 20MB/s for compatible host devices and recording media. VPG-20 enables high quality Full HD video capture at high frame rates with no dropped frames.

The market for DSLR is expected to grow by some 50% in the period 2012 to 2015 and demand for CF cards will grow with it. Toshiba aims to capture a 30% market share by 2015 by developing high performance memory cards.

Specifications

Notes:
1. CompactFlash® card is a memory card standardized by CompactFlash Association. VPG logo and CF+ are trademarks of CompactFlash Association. CompactFlash® is a registered trademark of CompactFlash Association.
2. EXCERIA PRO is a trademark of Toshiba Corporation.
3. As of December 2012, Toshiba.
4. 16GB cards will have 95MB/s maximum write speed. Read/Write speed was internally tested based on UDMA mode 7 16bit (LBA48). Read and write speed may vary, depending on user specifications such as devices used and file size read or written. (Transfer speed of 1MB/s calculated as 1,000,000 bytes/s)

Just posted: Canon EOS 6D DSLR Camera Review

From DxO:

DxO Optics Pro v8.1.1 supports four new cameras

300 new DxO Optics Modules available

December 17, 2012 - DxO Labs, announces the immediate availability DxO Optics Pro v8.1.1 for Mac and Windows, the latest version of its image processing software of reference for all serious photographers. This upgrade allows DxO Optics Pro 8 to support the Sony SLT-A99, the Pentax K-5 II and K-5 IIs, and the Canon EOS M.

DxO Optics Pro v8.1.1 also benefits from the continuous addition of DxO Optics Modules. Nearly 300 new camera/lens combinations have been added to the library, thus providing support for additional Canon, Panasonic, Samyang and Sigma lenses for Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, and Sony cameras.

B&H carries DxO products.

From Kickstarter:

The new Swivl is a multipurpose motion and tracking platform for imaging, teleconferencing and more. No more single purpose devices for one use. The new Swivl works iPads, iPhones, DSLRs and Android devices. It has a smooth, highly adjustable pan and tilt motion system in one sleek form. It automatically follows you for self captured video. It can make your iPad your remote control for your DSLR. It enables engaging telepresence controls with another mobile equipped Swivl. This is a new era of moving images.

For DSLR, the Swivl is a sophisticated motion controlled tripod head. It can only be compared to expensive solutions used by professional photographers for wild life and action shots. It also makes your iPad a wireless command and control center for all your still and video needs. With our Swivl DSLR control app you can set up multi-view shots with remote preview, frame the shot, adjust settings (ISO, exposure, etc) and fire the trigger. You can also use it for panorama or moving timelapse, or just to stabilize your camera for long exposure shots.

Canon Europe has published a great technical guide explaining how the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT flash and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT operate with EOS cameras. The guide details which features are compatible with all EOS camera and which features are only available with newer (post-2012) DSLRs.

From Nikon:

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce that the Nikon D4 digital - SLR camera and the Nikon 1 system, which includes cameras, dedicated lenses, a dedicated Speedlight, a dedicated GPS unit, - have been awarded the "iF design award 2013: iF product design award. The iF design award is globally prestigious award sponsored by International Forum Design GmbH of Hanover Germany.

The iF design award has been sponsored by International Forum Design GmbH of Hanover Germany since 1953. Each year, recipients of these prestigious awards are selected from worldwide industrial products exhibiting superior design. The awards include the product design award, communication design award and packaging award, etc. This year, 4,352 products from 51 countries were evaluated and the awards are presented to 1,410 products. In selecting recipients, product aspects including quality of design, functionality, degree of innovation, universal design and brand value+branding are considered for the product design award.

Recipients of the iF Product Design Award

The Nikon D4

The Nikon D4 is Nikon's latest flagship digital-SLR camera. It is equipped with a new Nikon FX-format CMOS image sensor (imaging size of 36.0 x 23.9 mm) and EXPEED 3, Nikon's latest image-processing engine. Together, these features enable superior image quality rich in detail along with excellent high-speed performance. The D4 responds to a number of demands from professional photographers working in the field with highly advanced functions and the ultimate in performance.

Nikon 1 system

Last year, Nikon released a new digital camera system that offers new forms of imaging expression. The cameras included in this system are described by Nikon as "Advanced Cameras with Interchangeable Lenses".

Award-winning products from Nikon 1 system:

• Nikon 1 J1
• Nikon 1 J2
• Nikon 1 V1
• 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8
• 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6
• 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6
• 1 NIKKOR 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6
• 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 PD-ZOOM
• Speedlight SB-N5
• GPS Unit GP-N100
• Mount Adapter FT1

B&H carries the Nikon D4 DSLR Camera and Nikon 1 products.

From Think Tank Photo:

Are you having a difficult time deciding what gift to buy for the Holidays? You're in luck! We're happy to announce our limited edition Custom Pixel Pocket Rocket memory card holders made with special fabrics selected by our Design Board members. They come in a range of prints and materials from purple corduroy to sushi print and even faux fur! They make great stocking stuffers for your friends, family and even for yourself! Each wallet holds up to 8 CF or SD cards.

We've also just received new shipments of Think Tank Photo's newest bags including the Airport 4-Sight, Airport Navigator, CityWalker and Retrospective shoulder bags. With free domestic ground shipping for the holidays, most orders placed by 1pm PST Monday through Friday will ship the same day.

Free Shipping and Holiday Deadlines
Need your gift to arrive by December 25th? Simply place your order by Friday, December 14th and with our free shipping option your gift will arrive on time, anywhere within the US. We are offering free FedEx Ground shipping for US shipping addresses and free USPS Priority shipping for PO Box, APO, or FPO addresses through December.

Need an order expedited? Give us a call and we can provide you with an up to date estimate for delivery times specific to your location. Email us at cs@thinktankphoto.com or give us a call at (866)558-4465. We're all experienced photographers with a vast knowledge of camera support solutions and we don't work on commission.

Airport 4-Sight Price Reduction
Our new four wheeled rolling camera bag, the Airport 4-Sight, is now available at a temporary $50 price reduction to $249.75 in limited quantities throughout the month of December.

We invite you to explore the bag that has created an entirely new segment of camera carrying solutions. With four swiveling wheels, you are free to move about the airplane cabin like never before. Unlike traditional two wheeled rolling bags, the 4-Sight can be rolled along side you on all four wheels, reducing fatigue while hauling gear around town or through crowded airports.

Want to capture those Christmas memories like the opening of presents, the holiday feast, and maybe a snowball fight, but don't have the right gear for the job?

Or do you want devote some of your time off to shooting birds or wildlife, but your longest lens just isn't long enough?

Use promition code HOLIDAYS at LensRentals to get 7 days rental for the price of 4. Need it longer than 7 days - then take 25% off the whole rental.

Details:

• Select any arrival date between 12/19 - 12/28
• Put the code HOLIDAYS in the special instructions box during checkout
• Get 7 days for the price of 4 or 25% off your rental!

To support this site, click on the appropriate product review and then click the button beside a camera/lens that will help you capture holiday memories.

From Tamron:

Tamron adds the SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009) for Canon mount and the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F004) for Canon mount to the line-up of lenses with lens profile for aberration correction in Adobe® Photoshop® CS6, Camera Raw (a Photoshop® plug-in), and Photoshop Lightroom® 4

December 13, 2012, Saitama, Japan - Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono / Headquarters: Saitama City), a leading manufacturer of optical equipment, announced the addition of the SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009) for Canon mount and the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F004) for Canon mount to the lens profile for aberration correction offered for Adobe ® Photoshop ® CS6, Photoshop's raw image plug-in Camera Raw, and the photo management software Photoshop Lightroom ® 4, all developed and offered by Adobe Systems Incorporated.

The lens profile will be bundled with the Camera Raw 7.3 Update and Photoshop Lightroom ® 4.3. With the new profile, customers who own Tamron's SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009) for Canon mount and SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F004) for Canon mount will be able to utilize the above software for easy correction of lens distortion, chromatic aberrations and peripheral light fall-off based on design data.*1

By installing the latest version of the Adobe DNG converter, customers who use Photoshop CS5/Lightroom 3 will also be able to use the lens profile for the SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Model A009) for Canon mount and the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD (Model F004) for Canon mount.

From Adobe:

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.3

The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.3 update includes these enhancements:

• HiDPI support within the Library and Develop Modules. HiDPI provides support for Retina-enabled Macs.
• Additional raw file support for 20 cameras including the Canon EOS 6D, Nikon D600 and Olympus PEN E-PL5
• Corrections and bug fixes for issues introduced in previous versions of Lightroom.

Download: Windows | Macintosh

Adobe DNG Converter 7.3

This new version of the DNG Converter supports over 20 new cameras including the including the Canon EOS 6D, Nikon D5200, and Sony DSC-RX1. Visit the Camera Raw page for a complete list of supported cameras.

Support for the following cameras has been added:

Canon

• Canon EOS 6D
• Canon PowerShot G15
• Canon PowerShot SX50 HS
• Canon PowerShot S110

Nikon

• Nikon 1 V2
• Nikon D5200
• Nikon D600

Download: Windows | Macintosh