Canon and Sony News for Oct 2015 (Page 2)

When I left for my Alaska trip, I was packing on the end of a 90+ hour work week and was still actively fighting against a DDOS attack on the site as I was going out the door. With major distractions, I left without a key piece of kit that I expected to need on this trip – my Think Tank Photo Hydrophobia 300-600 v2.0 rain cover. When I remembered what I had forgotten, it was too late to recover from my mistake.

As it turned out, I was shooting with my Canon 600mm f/4L IS II Lens on a Canon EOS 5Ds R in light rain about 50% of the time I was in Katmai National Park. While this lens and lens combo is weather sealed, I don't like to test the limits of this sealing.

What saved me? Minimally, from anxiety? A simple garbage bag. Having needed to use this backup plan before, I knew what to do. Place the makeshift rain cover (I usually carry at least two in my larger cases) over the camera and lens. Then tear a small hole in the bag, with the opening just large enough to tightly stretch over the lens hood. The plastic stretched around the hole holds the bag tightly to the lens hood, providing a seal between the gear and the makeshift rain cover.

A hole can also be made for the viewfinder, but I often use the bag's normal opening when shooting. My ball hat brim provides some protection for the exposed back of the camera and I pull the bag completely over the camera when not actively shooting.

This solution is not nearly as elegant as the TTP rain cover. The one problem with this setup is that wind can swiftly blow the bag off of the camera, generally turning it inside out and into a flag blowing from the snug-fitting tear/cut hole hold holding onto the lens. Wrapping some tape (carry a small, perhaps self-made, roll of gaffer tape) around the back of the lens can be enough. Other securing options abound, including the use of ball bungies.

Forget your garbage bags? Garbage bags are ubiquitous; they can be found at most household supply, grocery and camp stores. Your hotel can likely give you one if there isn’t a good one to be found in your room. If your hotel happens to provide shower caps, that is another rain cover option.

Garbage bags have many uses beyond camera and lens rain protection. Use them as a drop cloth/ground matt to keep you and/or your gear clean and dry. You can even put your camera case/backpack in a bag. Use a garbage bag as a makeshift raincoat for yourself (important: allow for fresh air to prevent suffocation). You can of course use the bags for their namesake purpose. Carry a load of trash out of the location you are shooting in.

Choose your bag size and its duty-level based on your need. While a super telephoto lens works great with a full-size garbage bag, smaller lenses work better with a kitchen-sized garbage bag or smaller. When used as a ground cloth, my preference is for very heavyweight contractor bags, though I find lighter weight garbage bags easier to work with as a camera rain cover. I often have various size and material weight selections at my "disposal."

While it is your choice, I highly recommend "unscented" bags. :)

Garbage bag are cheap, readily available and incredibly useful. Put some garbage bags in all of your camera bags now, before you forget. And, add this useful accessory to your packing lists.

From Canon USA:

"The Rusted" is a Psychological Thriller Inspired by a College Student's Trailer Submission for the Project Imagination Contest

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 23, 2015 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, debuts a new Hollywood short film, "The Rusted," as part of Canon's Project Imagination: The Trailer, a consumer contest helmed by Ron Howard who has championed Canon's Project Imagination creative experiment since 2011. Ron Howard and Josh Hutcherson ("The Hunger Games") chose one winning trailer created by Mark Mukherjee, a college student in Florida, as the inspirational foundation for "The Rusted," a psychological thriller written and directed by Kat Candler ("Hellion") starring Josh Hutcherson and Jena Malone ("The Hunger Games").

"The Rusted" is a film about a brother and sister's attempt to renovate their childhood home into a recording studio, but strange happenings force them to deal with memories from their past. The global premiere of the film took place via a livestream with AOL BUILD, giving consumers everywhere a chance to experience the film, and will now be available at imagination.usa.canon.com.

"I'm honored to continue this journey with Canon, seeking inspiration from those around us and urging everyone to tap into their creative souls and bring stories to life," said Ron Howard. "It's truly been a delight to collaborate with Josh Hutcherson who challenged himself to star in a role that was unlike any he has done to date."

"Working with Canon, Ron and Kat have given me a great creative outlet to flex my filmmaking muscles," said Josh Hutcherson. "I feel so fortunate to bring the vision of Mark's trailer to life and work alongside Jena to create this beautiful film. I'm excited for everyone to see it."

Francesca Silvestri and Kevin Chinoy of Freestyle Picture Company as well as Josh Hutcherson and Michelle Hutcherson produced the film.

Project Imagination: The Trailer contest launched in February 2015 and was open for submissions through April 29th. Based on the concept that anything in life can be a movie, and every movie starts with a trailer, Canon invited all consumers - even those who have never picked up a camera before - to turn everyday photos and video footage into a creative movie trailer with titles, Hollywood style voice-overs and epic soundtracks. Consumers of all skill levels were encouraged to create and submit trailers of their everyday moments using Canon's Trailer Editor tool. One winning trailer was then selected by Ron Howard and Josh Hutcherson.

From BlackRapid:

TRIPOD PLATES 50/70

Replace an existing arca-compatible plate with the Tripod Plate 50 or 70. This product allows you to switch from your tripod to your R-strap effortlessly, without having to unscrew the plate. Comes with our FastenR Tripod screw and fits all 1/4-20 sockets. It is available in two sizes 50 and 70mm.

Technical Specifications

Plate:

• High grade aluminum alloy
• Lengths: 50mm | 70mm
• Width: 40mm
• Weight: 31g | 40g

FastenR Tripod (FR-T1):

• Stainless steel
• Length: 1.4cm
• Length of screw: 0.8cm
• Width of handle: 2.5cm
• Width of screw cap: 1.5cm
• Net Weight: 14g

LOCKING BERT EXTENDER

BlackRapid’s Locking Bert extender is a great solution to lengthen your R-Strap. This option lets you add an extra 15 inches (38cm) on your sling to ensure the best fit. Comes in a locking version and a Non-locking (original) version for Curves and Doubles without the locking buckle on the back.

Technical Specifications

• Black: 2.5cm (1”) Nylon Webbing
• Orange: 2.5cm (1”) Polypropane Webbing
• Length: 38cm (15”)
• Net Weight: 23g

B&H has the BlackRapid Arca-Style Tripod Plates and Locking Buckle Bert Camera Strap Extension available for preorder.

If you already have an Arca-style L-bracket on your camera, you can use this method to make it compatible with a BlackRapid strap. [Sean]

From Think Tank Photo:

10/22/2015 – Two of the photo industry’s most tenured women, Lily Fisher, a senior camera bag designer, and Deanne Fitzmaurice, a Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, collaborated to create the ideal camera bags for female photographers. After a decade interviewing female professional photographers and a year-and-a-half developing the bag, the result is the Lily Deanne shoulder bag line from Think Tank Photo — the perfect marriage of function and style.

Make no mistake, Lily Deanne bags are serious camera bags designed for quick access to pro-size camera bodies and lenses through the oversized zipper opening. The rare-earth magnetic closures on the main flap and front pockets allow for silent access while protecting delicate clothing. The adjustable non-slip shoulder pad is cushioned for all day comfort.

The Lily Deanne Lucido holds one standard size DSLR with one to three lenses and accessories, or a complete Mirrorless camera system with three to four lenses and accessories. An 8” tablet fits inside a dedicated compartment. The Lily Deanne Mezzo holds one standard-size DSLR with mid-range zoom attached, plus two to three additional lenses and 10” tablet or 11” laptop inside a dedicated compartment. The Lily Deanne Tutto holds one gripped DSLR with mid-range zoom lens attached and two to five additional lenses and 2 flashes, or one standard-size DSLR with 70-200mm f/2.8 attached and two to five lenses in its main compartment and 2 flashes, and a 15” laptop inside a dedicated compartment.

Lily Deanne bags come in two colorsChestnut Brown and Black Licoriceand in three sizes: Lucido (sleek); Mezzo (middle); and, Tutto (everything). A professional photographer can now look stylish with the full-grain Dakota Leather flap and accents, metal hardware with chrome finish, and the Robin’s Egg blue liner.

Lily Deanne bags are ideal for wedding and event photography, portraiture, editorial, corporate and commercial photography.

Materials

Exterior: All fabric exterior treated with durable water resistant coating while fabric underside is coated with polyurethane for superior water resistance, full-grain Dakota leather, chrome plated metal hardware, neodymium (rare-earth) magnets, highest quality YKK RC-Fuse zippers, 420D velocity nylon, 420 high-density nylon, nylon seatbelt webbing, 320g airmesh, silicone non-slip screenprint, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Interior: 210D turquoise-toned RC stripe nylon lining, polyurethane-backed Velex liner and dividers, closed-cell foam and reinforced PE board dividers, 2x polyurethane coated nylon 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, nylon binding, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Product Dimensions and Weight

Lily Deanne Lucido
Internal Dimensions: 10" W x 8.5" H x 4.5" D (25.5 x 21.5 x 11.5 cm)
Exterior Dimensions: 11.4" W x 8.9" H x 5.3" D (29 x 22.5 x 13.5 cm)
8” tablet compartment: 9.3” W x 7.7” H x 0.6” D (23.5 x 19.5 x 1.5 cm)
Weight: 1.9 lbs (0.8 kg)

Lily Deanne Mezzo
Internal Dimensions: 12.2" W x 9.4" H x 5.3" D (31 x 24 x 13.5 cm)
Exterior Dimensions: 13.8" W x 9.8" H x 6.1" D (35 x 25 x 15.5 cm)
Laptop/tablet compartment: 11.8” W x 8.9” H x 0.8” D (30 x 22.5 x 2 cm)
Weight: 2.3 lbs (1.0 kg)

Lily Deanne Tutto
Internal Dimensions: 15.4” W x 10.2” H x 6.7” D (39 x 28 x 17 cm)
Exterior Dimensions: 16.9” W x 11.4” H x 8.3” D (43 x 29 x 21 cm)
Laptop compartment: 15” W x 10.4” H x 0.9” D (38 x 26.5 x 2.3 cm)
Weight: 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg)

Think Tank Photo has the Lily Deanne shoulder bags available for preorder.

It seems I missed these updates when they hit Canon USA last week. (thanks for the heads up, Peter!)

Digital Photo Professional 3.15.0

Changes:

• Supports EF35mm f/1.4L II USM, EF50mm f/1.8 STM, EF-M15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM.

Digital Photo Professional 4.3.31

Changes:

• Newly supported EOS M10, PowerShot G9 X, PowerShot G5 X, EOS Kiss X6i / EOS REBEL T4i / EOS 650D, EOS Kiss X5 / EOS REBEL T3i / EOS 600D, EOS Kiss X50 / EOS REBEL T3 / EOS 1100D, and PowerShot SX60 HS.
• Supports EF35mm f/1.4L II USM, EF50mm f/1.8 STM, EF-M15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM.
• Adds a function that enables playing back movie files on EOS MOVIE Utility (Ver. 1.4 or later).
• Fixes a malfunction that occurs rarely when "Distortion" is ticked off during the editing of RAW images shot with EOS 8000D / EOS REBEL T6s / EOS 760D or EOS Kiss X8i / EOS REBEL T6i / EOS 750D.

EOS Utility 2.14.20a

Changes:

• Supports EF35mm f/1.4L II USM, EF50mm f/1.8 STM.

EOS Utility 3.3.0

Changes:

• Supports EOS M10.

Picture Style Editor 1.15.30

Changes:

• Supports EOS M10.

EOS MOVIE Utility 1.4

Changes:

• Adds a function that displays saved images on Digital Photo Professional (Ver. 4.3.20 or later).
• Supports vertical image playback for vertical movies.

Download: Software Updates at Canon USA

From PocketWizard:

New Auto-Sensing Transceiver allows photographers to combine on-camera TTL flash with remote manual flash.

So. Burlington, VT – October 21, 2015 – LPA Design, manufacturers of PocketWizard Photo Products, the world leader in reliable wireless control of cameras, flash lighting and light meters, announces the new PocketWizard Plus IV Transceiver. The new Plus IV includes all the features and reliability of the Plus III and adds key new functionality. When used as a transmitter, its top shoe provides on-camera TTL compatibility with most Canon, Nikon and Panasonic cameras and flashes. And although testing is not complete, we are optimistic it will work with some Fuji, and Olympus gear. When used as a receiver, you can easily mount and trigger virtually any speedlight in the shoe, set to a manual power level.

“Photographers love the Plus III, but they’ve expressed their desire for a Plus III with a top shoe. So we designed one. We took it a step further and added TTL pass-through for an on-camera flash, and a metal foot. It’s like a Plus III on its side, with the most-requested features added in,” comments Heather Ambrose, PocketWizard Marketing Manager. “The Plus IV is by no means a replacement for the Plus III. They complement each other. An ideal set-up might be a Plus IV for on-camera flash in TTL mode, another Plus IV with a speedlight mounted in manual mode and two Plus IIIs connected to studio lights. The Plus IV features the same Quad-Zone Triggering as the Plus III so you can easily turn any one of those remote flashes on or off directly from the camera, and either create different looks or work in different areas.”

The Plus IV has the performance enhancing features of the Plus III including Long Range and Repeater Modes to help photographers tackle the most challenging shooting environments, opening the door for never-attempted image ideas. All features, channels and zones can be easily set using the soft-touch keypad and are clearly displayed on the backlit LCD display.

The versatile new PocketWizard Plus IV is compatible with all other PocketWizard radios and virtually every popular flash and professional digital SLR camera system. The standard ISO compatible hot shoe can accommodate almost any speedlight for simple manual triggering, including newer Sony models. It also communicates with all PocketWizard-enabled photo gear including select Profoto, Dynalite, Norman and Photogenic flash systems and Sekonic light meters.

The new Plus IV will be demonstrated at the PocketWizard Booth (#663) at PhotoPlus 2015 in New York City, NY, October 22 – 24, 2015. The product is expected to be available at retail in January 2016.

From Canon USA:

Program to Include Influencers from Emerging Imaging Markets

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 21, 2015 – In celebration of the 20th anniversary of its Explorers of Light Program, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced it is welcoming new members into the program, including: Lindsay Adler, David Bergman, Jimmy Chin, Charles Glatzer, Joel Grimes, Peter Hurley, and Roberto Valenzuela. These new members add to the already impressive ranks of Canon's program, expanding to align with a wide range of talented personalities that impact imaging culture and influence the way their audiences see the world. Many of these new Explorers of Light will be on hand at the Canon Booth (#121) at PhotoPlus Expo 2015, October 22-24 at the Javits Center in New York City. For a full schedule of events in the Canon booth, please visit pro.usa.canon.com/photoplus2015.

The new ambassadors for the Explorers of Light Program go beyond the boundaries of still photography by sharing their work through gallery prints, the silver screen, Facebook, Instagram and more. These influential talents are constantly advancing their craft and helping to create new ways in which our world is visually captured and shared. The program brings these creative individuals together to offer their knowledge, photographic passion, and technical expertise while also acting as a conduit of two-way communication between Canon and various developing imaging markets.

"Our world is constantly changing, and Canon prides itself on being at the forefront of change. For 20 years the Explorers of Light program has enabled us to align with amazing professional photographers that educate and inspire, and now these new luminaries will help us to engage in meaningful two-way communication with exciting and emerging imaging markets," said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Since the creation of the program in 1995, Canon's Explorers of Light have been leaders in their respective fields, garnering awards and accolades for their work. These individuals work with Canon extensively as representatives, ambassadors, educators, and role models for aspiring creative artists. They participate in workshops, seminars, gallery showings and personal appearances throughout the United States.

For more information about the Explorers of Light program, visit: http://www.learn.usa.canon.com/explorers_of_light/eol_home.shtml

From Canon USA:

New Advanced Amateur and Professional Imaging Products Demonstrate Canon's Complete Input to Output Capabilities for those Obsessed with Image Quality

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 21, 2015 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, will be showcasing its latest in high-quality imaging products for photographers of all skill levels in addition to hosting educational seminars and professional photographer print signings at PhotoPlus Expo 2015 in the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City, October, 22 - 24, 2015, in booth #121.

On display, and announced just today, will be Canon's new imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Professional Inkjet Printer. This new printer complements Canon's professional line of EOS DSLR cameras and lenses for an ideal pairing that will produce high-detail, high-quality prints on a variety of media. This 17-inch, large format solution packs significant technological advancements, including a new print head, new ink and a new image processing engine. Canon will be hosting one free limited edition print signing each day of the show, where the first 100 attendees will be able to take home a beautiful signed image, printed on the imagePROGRAF PRO- 1000, from a Canon Explorer of Light (EOL). Signings will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday (Ken Sklute) and Friday (Joel Grimes), and at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday (Lindsay Adler).

On display will be Canon's brand new digital cameras and lenses including:

• EOS M10 Digital Camera: Outfitted with a new, retractable EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens, the EOS M10 is a compact and stylish digital camera that helps photographers expand their creativity. The camera is equipped with Wi-Fi and NFC capability, making it easy to share high-quality photos and videos on- the-go via most current Android1 and iOS2 devices.
• PowerShot G5 X and PowerShot G9 X Digital Cameras: These two new large sensor digital camera models are ideal for advanced amateur photographers looking for a highly portable, advanced point-and-shoot camera. Both models are equipped with a one-inch, 20.2 Megapixel3 High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and feature Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities, allowing users to easily print or share images and videos. The PowerShot G5 X camera is housed in a classic black body and is equipped with a built-in, high-resolution electronic viewfinder. The slim, lightweight PowerShot G9 X camera is easy to carry anywhere, and in addition to being available in classic black, also comes in a retro-style, silver-gray body with brown-stitched leather accents.

To showcase the vivid, realistic imagery that Canon products can create there will be a 20 billion pixel at 200 dpi panorama of Yankee Stadium taken by EOL David Bergman, created with the 50.6 megapixel EOS 5DS R camera. At over 20-feet long, the image consists of 825 separate photographs stitched together.

Programming

The main stage in the booth will feature presentations from Canon EOLs (schedule subject to change), including several new members of the program who will make their debut at PhotoPlus Expo. The booth will also feature a gallery of selected photographs from various EOLs, showcasing the skill and talent that earned them a place in this elite program.

Canon Professional Services will once again host the CPS Lounge where Gold, Platinum, Enterprise, and Cinema CPS members can have their Canon equipment (up-to-two current Professional DSLR bodies or lenses4) cleaned and checked during Expo hours starting Thursday, Oct. 22 through Saturday, Oct. 24 in Room 2D12.

The hours of operation for the CPS Lounge are:

Thursday, Oct. 22: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Equipment pickup only)

Canon will also feature factory trained technicians directly in the Canon booth, performing Canon Maintenance Service for CPS customers. This area will highlight Canon's commitment to providing world class service and support for professionals. For more information on CPS, visit cps.usa.canon.com. For more information on Canon Maintenance Service, including a list of eligible products, visit usa.canon.com/maintenance. Follow Canon throughout the PhotoPlus Expo show @CanonUSApro. To see the full details of Canon's presence at PhotoPlus Expo, please visit: pro.usa.canon.com/photoplus2015.

B&H has the Canon ME20F-SH Multi-Purpose Camera – with up to 4 Million ISO & 12 Stops dynamic range – available for preorder.

Product Highlights

• Up to 4 Million ISO & 12 Stops DR
• Full Frame 35mm CMOS Sensor
• Canon DIGIC DV 4
• Full HD up to 60p
• HD/3G-SDI & HDMI Connectors
• Canon Locking Cinema EF Lens Mount

From Canon USA:

New 17-inch Large Format Printer Can Produce Sharp Images and Astounding Image Clarity for Pro Photographers and Design Professionals

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 21, 2015 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Professional Inkjet Printer, a 17-inch, large format solution packed with significant technological advancements, such as a new print head, new ink set and a new image processing engine, resulting in stunning image quality designed for photographers who are "equally obsessed" with the printed image.

This is the first in a new series of imagePROGRAF printers that are marked by the distinctive Canon red line across the body of the printer, echoing the same red line on Canon's EF L-Series lenses. This feature-rich professional printer complements Canon's professional line of DSLR cameras and lenses for an ideal pairing that can produce high-detail, high-quality images when printed on a variety of media, creating images that look as accurate printed as when they were captured.

"We designed a printer to give our customers incredible large-format image reproduction in a size that fits almost any home, studio, design and production departments, or in a classroom of photography students," said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. "Knowing how important fine details and precise colors are to professional users, this printer is designed so that the final output is exactly what they envisioned. The launch of the first printer in the new imagePROGRAF PRO Series of printers further illustrates the commitment Canon has to providing the imaging community with solutions that help deliver superb output true to a photographer's obsession."

New Print Head
Improving upon the specifications of the Canon PIXMA PRO-1 printer, the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 printer features a 50 percent larger print head, which also expands the total number of nozzles to 18,432 for each of the 12 channels. The increased size of the print head helps produce faster print speeds†† while still maintaining high-resolution prints. This new print head design utilizes a sophisticated real-time ink ejection system which helps to maintain a consistent print head temperature allowing for consistent ink droplets to help limit clogs and reduce cleaning cycles and wasted ink. The new print head helps to further reduce the amount of wasted ink through anti-clogging technologies where ink ejection conditions are precisely checked with sensors, and if a clog is detected, another nozzle automatically provides backup.

New Inks
The new LUCIA PRO 11-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system was designed specifically to meet the demands of the most critical photographer. An optimized resin-coating of each pigment allows for denser droplets to be applied to the media, resulting in an increased color gamut of up to 19 percent over the PIXMA PRO-1 printer. This dense ink-configuration also brings gloss uniformity for viewing conditions and image clarity that helps achieve anti-bronzing. The LUCIA PRO ink system also introduces an improved level of black density not only achieving deep, rich blacks but also helping to bring out incredibly fine shadow detail in the darker areas, creating works of art on fine art media. The imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 printer is designed to work seamlessly when changing media types, Photo Black and Matte Black inks have their own dedicated nozzles so no switching is necessary. Users can print on glossy media then fine art media with no worries, no changes, and no waste. The new ink system includes matte black, photo black, gray, photo gray, red, blue, magenta, photo magenta, cyan, photo cyan, yellow and Chroma Optimizer. The size of the ink tanks is 80ml per tank, allowing for less frequent refills and reduced cost per print.

New Processing Engine & Printer Architecture
Demonstrating a rich understanding of optimum balance stemming from its expertise in camera technology, Canon offers precise placement of ink droplets ideal for vivid print results. The new processing engine, L-COA PRO, controls the balance of inks and the precise placement of ink droplets, carefully calculating best results for each print mode and media using various factors including color reproduction, tonal gradations, black density, graininess, glossiness, anti-bronzing and elimination of metamerism, all of which contribute to creating an amazing printed image. L-COA PRO, combined with an internal 1GB of memory, enables high-speed processing of massive volumes of image data for demanding workflows. To bring further accuracy to ink ejection and limitation of color unevenness, the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 printer offers a two-way vacuum paper feeder, which keeps media flat and even, helping with accuracy of ink ejection. The imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 printer also has a built-in calibration function to help prevent variability of color output by aging changes or printer differences. This feature allows for a consistency in colors from PRO-1000 to PRO-1000 of under a Delta E of 2†††. Reliability and quality are further maintained by the enhanced rigidity in the printer chassis allowing for even more improved dot placement, helping to produce sharper prints, including stunning borderless images.

New Software*
Enhancing the user experience with imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 printer is the intuitive software solution of Print Studio Pro v 2.0. With a focus on quality and ease of use, Print Studio Pro is a plugin for Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom and Canon Digital Photo Professional software that easily exports files directly to the printer.1 With 16-bit processing capabilities, fine details are dramatically improved, gradations are smooth and a highly accurate reproduction of the original captured image can be reproduced. Also set to be included is the Media Configuration Tool (MCT)*, enabling customization of the media in both the driver and printer. Additionally, MCT can make adjustments such as print head height and vacuum strength for each media, offering the flexibility needed in order to help achieve optimal quality across a broad range of media options. Accounting Manager* is set to be included for those looking to keep track of consumable costs such as ink and media, allowing users to manually enter in their costs in order to help determine their overall printing expenses. Whether it is an individual printing in their studio, or an administrator looking to centrally manage a number of users in a multi-unit networked environment, this tool can help you keep track of printing expenses. Device Management Console* is an administrative tool which provides users with the means to manage multiple PRO-1000 printers by helping users monitor activity such as error messages and printer information such as the execution status of calibrations.

Availability and Pricing
The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is scheduled to be available end of October 2015 for a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $1,299.99. MSRP of each color ink is $59.99 and Chroma Optimizer is $54.99.

* Certain software and utilities to be released post launch: Device Management Console for PC estimated to be available December 2015, for MAC 3rd Quarter 2016,Media Configuration Tool for MAC estimated to be available 1st quarter 2016 and Accounting Manager for MAC and PC estimated to be available for 1st Quarter of 2016.

B&H has the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 17" Professional Photographic Inkjet Printer available for preorder.

From Western Digital:

• New platform creates greater scale and ability to deliver extensive portfolio of innovative products and technology
• Combined business well-positioned to capture growth and opportunities created by rapidly evolving storage industry
• JV with Toshiba provides stable NAND supply at scale through a time-tested business model and extends across NVM technologies such as 3D NAND

IRVINE, Calif. and MILPITAS, Calif. — Oct. 21, 2015 — Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ: WDC) and SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Western Digital will acquire all of the outstanding shares of SanDisk for a combination of cash and stock. The offer values SanDisk common stock at $86.50 per share or a total equity value of approximately $19 billion, using a five-day volume weighted average price ending on October 20, 2015 of $79.60 per share of Western Digital common stock. If the previously announced investment in Western Digital by Unisplendour Corporation Limited closes prior to this acquisition, Western Digital will pay $85.10 per share in cash and 0.0176 shares of Western Digital common stock per share of SanDisk common stock; and if the Unisplendour transaction has not closed or has been terminated, $67.50 in cash and 0.2387 shares of Western Digital common stock per share of SanDisk common stock. The transaction has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies.

The combination is the next step in the transformation of Western Digital into a storage solutions company with global scale, extensive product and technology assets, and deep expertise in non-volatile memory (NVM). With this transaction, Western Digital will double its addressable market and expand its participation in higher-growth segments. SanDisk brings a 27-year history of innovation and expertise in NVM, systems solutions and manufacturing. The combination also enables Western Digital to vertically integrate into NAND, securing long-term access to solid state technology at lower cost.

The proposed combination creates significant value for both SanDisk and Western Digital shareholders. Western Digital brings a successful track record of M&A with a number of acquisitions over the last several years helping to fuel innovation, create value and strongly position the company to capture higher-growth opportunities. In addition, Western Digital's operational excellence, coupled with the recently announced decision by China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) allowing Western Digital to integrate substantial portions of its WD and HGST businesses, is expected to generate additional cost synergies.

"This transformational acquisition aligns with our long-term strategy to be an innovative leader in the storage industry by providing compelling, high-quality products with leading technology," said Steve Milligan, chief executive officer, Western Digital. "The combined company will be ideally positioned to capture the growth opportunities created by the rapidly evolving storage industry. I'm excited to welcome the SanDisk team as we look to create additional value for all of our stakeholders, including our customers, shareholders and employees."

"Western Digital is globally recognized as a leading provider of storage solutions and has a 45-year legacy of developing and manufacturing cutting-edge solutions, making the company the ideal strategic partner for SanDisk," said Sanjay Mehrotra, president and chief executive officer, SanDisk. "Importantly, this combination also creates an even stronger partner for our customers. Joining forces with Western Digital will enable the combined company to offer the broadest portfolio of industry-leading, innovative storage solutions to customers across a wide range of markets and applications."

Western Digital and SanDisk's complementary product lines, including hard disk drives ("HDDs"), solid-state drives ("SSDs"), cloud datacenter storage solutions and flash storage solutions, will provide the foundation for a broader set of products and technologies from consumer to datacenter. Both companies have strong R&D and engineering capabilities and a rich base of fundamental technologies with over 15,000 combined patents issued or pending worldwide.

Toshiba has been a long-term strategic partner to SanDisk for 15 years. The joint venture (JV) with Toshiba will be ongoing, enabling vertical integration through a technology partnership driven by deep collaboration across design and process capabilities. The JV provides stable NAND supply at scale through a time-tested business model and extends across NVM technologies such as 3D NAND.

Steve Milligan will continue to serve as chief executive officer of the combined company, and the company will remain headquartered in Irvine, California. Upon closing, Sanjay Mehrotra is expected to join the Western Digital Board of Directors.

Led by a seasoned management team, Western Digital has a strong track record of integrating acquisitions to create value. The company expects to achieve full annual run-rate synergies of $500 million within 18 months post-closing. The transaction is expected to be EPS accretive on a non-GAAP basis within 12 months of the transaction close. Pending the closing of the transaction, Western Digital expects to continue paying its quarterly dividend and plans to suspend its share buyback program.

The transaction will be financed by a mix of cash, new debt financing and Western Digital stock. In connection with the transaction, Western Digital expects to enter into new debt facilities totaling $18.4 billion, including a $1.0 billion revolving credit facility. The proceeds from the new debt facilities are expected to be used to pay part of the purchase price, refinance existing debt of Western Digital and SanDisk and pay transaction related fees and expenses. If SanDisk's cash balance falls below certain thresholds at the time of transaction close, the merger agreement provides for an adjustment to the mix of cash and stock consideration.

The transaction is subject to approval by SanDisk shareholders and, in the event that the Unisplendor transaction does not close, Western Digital shareholders, receipt of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The transaction is expected to close in the third calendar quarter of 2016.

BofA Merrill Lynch and J.P. Morgan are acting as lead financial advisors to Western Digital and will provide committed financing for the transaction. Also, Credit Suisse is acting as a financial advisor and providing committed financing, and RBC Capital Markets is providing committed financing. Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP and Baker & McKenzie are acting as legal advisors to Western Digital.

Goldman Sachs is acting as the exclusive financial advisor to SanDisk. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is acting as the exclusive legal advisor to SanDisk.

B&H carries Sandisk memory cards.

From Lensbaby:

Latest product in Lensbaby’s Optic Swap System offers high-quality, versatile 50mm tilt lens

Portland, OR and New York, New York (PhotoPlus Expo 2015)—October 21, 2015 – Lensbaby, providing creative effects lenses to photographers that ignite their creativity and expand their unique visions of the world, today announced the new Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic, adding another powerful and creative tool to their Optic Swap System. The product will make its public debut during PhotoPlus Expo 2015, being held October 21-24 at the Javits Convention Center, New York City. Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic is designed for shooters ranging from avid enthusiasts and serious hobbyists to semiprofessional DSLR and mirrorless photographers.

Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic is a high-quality, 50mm f/3.2 upgraded metal-bodied tilt lens that lets you control depth of field in-camera for an authentic, immersive shooting experience. Photographers can use the lens to create images with a sharp slice of focus bordered by silky, smooth blur. The lens body swivels and tilts on a smooth metal ball and socket design, providing a fast and intuitive way to switch between traditional straight lens photos and tilt photography. Using selective focus, shooters can lead the viewers’ eyes on a unique journey through landscapes, close-ups, miniature effects, street photography and food photos.

Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic provides a gateway to an endless supply of creativity tools. Compatible with the Lensbaby Optic Swap System, it provides limitless options for photographers to swap optics in an out of the Composer Pro II lens body to change effect and focal length.

Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic specs:

• Focal Length: 50mm
• Aperture range: f/3.2 through f/22
• 9-blade internal aperture
• Flat field optic (creates a slice of sharp focus)
• Minimum focusing distance: 8” from the front of the lens
• Maximum focusing distance: Infinity
• Focus Type: Manual
• Size/Weight: 3.25” (8.25 cm) high x 2.5” (6.35cm) wide / 10 oz (283.49 g)
• Tilt: up to 15 degrees
• Compatible with the Lensbaby Optic Swap System
• 8 multi-coated glass elements in 6 groups
• 46mm filter threads

Availability

Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic retails for $424.95 and is available for Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony Alpha A, Pentax K, Fuji X, Sony Alpha E, Micro 4/3rds, and Samsung NX. Lensbaby products are available at lensbaby.com, B&H, Adorama, and from select specialty photo stores worldwide.

Note - Edge 80 Optic, Sweet 35 and Sweet 50 are currently available with the original Composer Pro only.

B&H carries the Lensbaby Composer Pro II with Edge 50 Optic.

From Photoshelter:

Ready to take your food photography to the next level?

From foodies to top chefs, the culinary culture is a trend that's here to stay. And, riding on its tails has been a massive opportunity for professional photographers. Unlike ever before, magazines, restaurants, bars, bloggers, artisanal producers, and recipe sites are craving top notch food imagery from skilled creatives.

That’s why it’s time to set yourself apart from the snap-happy diners once and for all. In The Professional’s Guide to Food Photography, a partnership with the International Association of Culinary Professionals, you’ll learn how to hone your talent and find new business opportunities in all things gastronomic.

Inside, get in-depth interviews from established food photographers succeeding in their endeavors, including their tips to:

• Break into the industry and attract the clients you want
• Lock in editorial clients
• Think outside the box for creative food projects
• Shoot in-house for a publication like Bon Appétit

Also learn tips for shooting great food photos, the benefits of entering contests, plus how to build a portfolio to showcase your unique style and appeal to an audience.

Download the free guide today!

B&H's Deal Zone has been active since this past holiday season. Ever since its introduction I've been continuously amazed at just how great the daily deals can be.

Case in point: I purchased a Lensbaby Spark 50mm f/2 Special Edition Lens with Creative Aperture Set (seen above) for $59.95 in late July via a Deal Zone Daily Deal. The deal was great; the fixed f/5.6 version of the Lensbaby Spark (featured as yesterday's Deal Zone Deal) normally goes for $89.95, is 3-stops slower and is incompatible with the creative aperture kit. The Special Edition lens originally sold for $129.95.

The Lensbaby Spark Special Edition Lens was released in the holiday season of 2014 and B&H used its Deal Zone to clear out unsold inventory as the lens was out of production. The deal sold out relatively quickly.

So why would I want to purchase a lens that's been discontinued? Because the Deal Zone price made the Lensbaby Spark Special Edition purchase infinitely more attractive. At less than $60.00, it's not something I necessarily had to budget for and it looked like a fun item to try out.

The results? The Lensbaby Spark is not the easiest lens to work with. You focus the lens by physically squeezing the lens toward the camera with your fingers and then you have to hold your fingers in place through the shutter's release. It's definitely challenging. But thankfully, the lens even more fun than it is challenging to use. A couple of my favorite shots over the past two months have been captured using the Lensbaby Spark, undoubtedly the cheapest lens I have ever purchased.

By checking our News Feed each morning, you can ensure that you don't miss a great deal before it gets sold out (or expires). And by clicking on the links from the News Feed, you'll be helping to support the site while you take advantage of the savings. I think that's a win-win. [Sean]