Canon and Sony News for Nov 2013 (Page 5)

by Mathieu Lindquist

"To date this has been my most challenging shot. It is a photograph of a real Tesla coil in action for Nimbus Theatre, a company located in Minneapolis.

For each show they have a photo call where the actors run through the show and the director selects scenes for which they need photos for publicity and archival purposes as well as for the actors' portfolios. This photo came from a show called 'Tesla,' a company produced work about the life of Nikola Tesla. This was a shot that everyone really wanted to get and presented a few major technical challenges.

The theatre group had high expectations for the show's imagery. This was a real Tesla coil and produced lightning, lots of noise, and would even power the T-12 fluorescent lamps the actor was holding. During the show the coil is used twice to amazing effect; the cast and crew really wanted to capture its brilliance in a photograph.

The first major hurdle was that Tesla coils can damage nearby electronic devices (like digital cameras). This limited how close I could reasonably get to the stage.

Another problem was theatre lighting - which is usually dim and color gelled for special effects. For this scene, the theatre lighting was especially dim since the designer wanted the coil-generated lightning to stand out. I wanted to respect the lighting designer's color choices and had to account for that in my shooting. Although there was no audience for the photo call, we had to run through a two hour show in three hours and capture almost 90 specific shots along the way. Therefore, I only had a few minutes to capture this particular shot.

Another problem was that the theatre was very small. In order to be far enough away from the Tesla coil (to eliminate risk to my equipment) I had to position myself in the lobby and shoot through the theatre's double doors. This severely limited my point of view choices.

And to make matters worse, we could only fire the coil once or it would overheat during the performance, so no pressure there!

In the end, I set my Canon 7D and 24-105L on a tripod in the lobby, framed the shot at 32mm to shoot down the center aisle but not catch the handrails on the risers, preset the exposure (.5s, f/5.6, ISO 1600), and practiced the shot with the actors. When we were all ready we counted down and I took the picture.

I was happy with the result and we got what we wanted on the first and only take possible. I then adjusted levels and such in Lightroom. To date this has been my most challenging shot, combining significant danger to my equipment, a dark scene, actors, time constraints and meeting high expectations. The director was very pleased with the result as was I."

Thank you Mathieu for sharing your Most Challenging Shot with us! If you'd like to share your Most Challenging Shot, email us at info@the-digital-picture.com with "My Most Challenging Shot" as the subject.

Canon Professional Network has published part four of its five part "Inside Lightroom 5" series.

From Canon Professional Network:

"In Part 4 of this series Richard Curtis looks at all of the local adjustment options in Lightroom and, in a special video, he reveals how to edit elements of your pictures using local adjustments."

Adorama carries Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 5.

From Canon USA:

Canon's 30-Inch 10-Bit IPS LCD Display Features a 16:10 Aspect Ratio, 4096 x 2560 Resolution Full RGB-Array Scanning, and a Backlit Panel to Deliver Precision Color and DCI Standards Compatibility

MELVILLE, N.Y., November 6, 2013 – As motion picture, television and commercial production continues to transition to ever-higher resolution digital video and CGI (computer graphic imaging) formats, color-grading and postproduction professionals increasingly rely on reference displays with exceptional detail, color and gradation accuracy. Developed in response to this trend is the new DP-V3010 4K Reference Display from Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions. The Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display measures 30 inches wide diagonally by 7.4 inches deep to help minimize space requirements and provides a 2000:1 DCI-compliant contrast ratio, uniform brightness, very wide viewing angles in all four directions, internal color calibration and additional advanced features. Designed for use in color-grading, digital intermediate (DI), CGI/animation/visual effects (VFX), and editing/finishing suites, as well as digital imaging technician (DIT) workstations on production stages and on-location "video villages," the Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display provides full-screen 4096 x 2560 resolution with extremely high levels of color accuracy and fidelity.

"We are proud to continue the Canon tradition of providing our customers with complete solution technologies, providing them the option to work within a Canon ecosystem from input through output, and maintain the quality and reliability of our brand," noted Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. "These displays are the result of the enthusiastic response we received to the Canon Cinema EOS System of cameras and lenses, and we look forward to continuing to demonstrate our commitment to these markets with outstanding technology, quality and reliability to help creative professionals deliver and tell the stories as they envision them."

The DP-V3010 4K Reference Display features a 16:10 aspect ratio for the display of video signal information essential to VFX creation. With a tightly packed "pixel pitch" of 157.5æm, the Canon DP-V3010 4K Display provides high-accuracy tonal gradations between darkest and brightest areas, with 1024 shades in each color channel. The technology enabling such performance is a new and proprietary display engine developed by Canon that helps maximize color accuracy and brightness uniformity. The actual panel employed by the DP-V3010 4K Display is an IPS (in-plane switching) LCD with full array RGB LED scanning backlight technology that delivers excellent color accuracy, and crisp video imagery without the perception of motion blurring between frames. By featuring an IPS LCD panel with polarizing and filtering film layers to prevent changes in color and contrast, the DP-V3010 4K Reference Display enables image viewing within a wide viewing angle, top to bottom and left to right.

Industry Compatibility
The Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display is compatible with the five major color gamut standards - SMPTE-C, EBU, ITU-R BT.709, DCI, and AdobeRGB - as well as conforming to DCI standards for 4K display. These DCI standards include a 2000:1 contrast ratio, which the DP-V3010 4K Reference Display evidences in its faithful reproduction of detail in the shadows and accurate highlights. This high contrast accuracy is essential for critical assessment and mastering of high dynamic range cinematic imagery.

Also supported by the Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display is the ASC CDL (American Society of Cinematographers Color Decision List) format. The display controller provided with the DP-V3010 4K Display includes a dedicated CDL button. Color settings made at the shooting location can be stored on a USB flash drive and imported into the user's color-grading system, which can then relay color correction parameters directly to the DP-V3010 4K Display in the ASC CDL format using slope, offset, power, and saturation parameter adjustments to the overall RGB image and/or separately to the individual R, G, and B channels.

The importation of LUT (Look Up Table) data created by third-party color-grading systems is also supported by the DP-V3010 4K Reference Display. The Display allows both 1D and 3D LUTs to be easily imported by operating the menus of the unit itself. This enables accurate color matching between displays and the ability to import customized "looks" created in third-party applications. In this way, the unique colors and gradations intended by producers can be easily reproduced.

Ready to support the wide dynamic range of Canon Log gamma video data recorded by the popular Canon EOS C500 and EOS C300 Cinema cameras, the Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display also comes pre-installed with the Cinema EOS Canon Log viewing LUT allowing those cameras to be integrated with the DP-V3010 4K Display for linear conversion and display in real time. Furthermore, using 1D/3D-LUT data, the display will be able to provide support for ACESproxy output from Canon's EOS C500 digital cinema camera.

A wide variety of the full HD video production format resolutions, typically used for TV dramas, commercials and other TV content, can also easily be displayed by the new Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display. To accommodate HD formats, the DP-V3010 Display offers upscaling modes offering smooth and accurate rendering up to 4K resolution of DCI 4K (in up to 12 bit 4:4:4 color), 2K, 1080p, 1080i and 720p. Inputs include 3G-SDI, HD-SDI and DisplayPort connectors for compatibility within many different production, post and VFX workflow environments.

Calibration and Convenience
Each Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display undergoes high-precision calibration before shipment to help ensure high color uniformity between all units. Color accuracy is further improved by the Canon DP-V3010 4K Display's control system, which continuously monitors internal conditions of the display which might affect color, uniformity and performance accuracy, like heat or aging of internal components and make corrections to help ensure long-term image stability and exceptional color consistency.

External calibration of the Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display can be performed without the need for a dedicated PC application through the use of a third-party spectroradiometer. Use of such an external sensor allows users of the DP-V3010 Display to maintain factory calibration settings as well as help adjustment for specific display applications or account for variations in ambient lighting.

The DP-V3010 Display features an easy-to-navigate on-screen display that can be controlled using the included display controller. Built-in carrying handles allow the display to be easily transported and positioned on top of a desk or a counter, or attached to a VESA-compliant bracket for easy wall or rack mounting. The accompanying display controller is designed to be used as both a desktop control device or to be rack-mounted for easy integration into suites, control rooms or mobile vehicle applications, such as HD sports production trucks.

Markers, time code display and test patterns are provided within the Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display. A variety of markers (aspect, safety zone, grid, and center) and test patterns (pluge, grayscale [20%], white, five-step, ramp, color bars, and black) are also built into the DP-V3010 Display.

The Canon DP-V3010 4K Reference Display is scheduled to be available in the first quarter of 2014 for a suggested list price of $40,000.

For more information about this update, please visit the Canon U.S.A. website at
http://usa.canon.com/cusa/professional/products/reference_displays/dp_v3010.

From Tamron:

Cutting-edge eBAND Coating and three LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements deliver superior imaging performance, while the latest built-in VC (Vibration Compensation) system broadens users' horizons in achieving sharper handheld photographs.

November 7, 2013, Saitama, Japan - Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono), a leading manufacturer of precision optics, has announced the development of an innovative ultra-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length range of 150mm to 600mm for full-frame and APS-C format DSLR cameras. The lens sample will be on display in showcase at the Tamron booth at the Salon de la Photo 2013 which will be held from November 7 to 11 in Paris, France.

Tamron's previously announced 200-500mm (Model A08), still currently available, is a popular, compact, easy-to-use ultra-telephoto zoom lens, but customers have shown great interest in having a lens that provide an even greater focal length range.

This all-new ultra-telephoto zoom lens features VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization, speedy, precise USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive)*3, state-of-the-art eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating, which significantly reduces the unwanted light reflections that cause flare and ghosting, and, in addition a sophisticated and stylish new external finish.

Its 4x ultra-telephoto zoom capabilities, with a focal length range from 150mm to 600mm, enhance the creative potential of telephoto photography, a captivating feature for all photographers, particularly nature, wildlife, and sports shooters.

Product Highlights

• 4x ultra-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length range of 150mm to 600mm
  The focal length range of this lens was extended by 50mm on the wide-angle side and 100mm on the telephoto side compared to the existing model (Model A08), making it possible to take even more striking photographs of birds, wildlife, sports, and other distant subjects. Mounted on APS-C DSLR cameras, it has a stunning equivalent focal length range of 233mm to 930mm, almost to 1000mm.
• World class image quality
  Employing 20 elements in 13 groups and boasting an advanced optical design, it delivers a superior balance of resolution and contrast for sharp, clear images. The front group contains three LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements (two in the first group, one in the third) for enhanced optical correction effectiveness, enabling the lens to thoroughly compensate for on-axis aberrations at the telephoto end.
  The lens also adopts eBAND Coating, developed from state-of-the-art coating technologies, and conventional BBAR(Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating to greatly suppress ghosting and flare even when shooting under adverse lighting conditions.
• Achieves a 600mm focal length in a compact easy-to-handle package
  Ingenious optical design features minimize the movement of lens groups within the lens when zooming. This reduces the amount of barrel extension needed to cover the complete focusing range, making the entire lens more compact.
• Beautiful background blur effects
  Adopting a 9 blade circular diaphragm enables users to create beautiful background blur effects (bokeh), which provide even greater potential for creative expression. This circular diaphragm retains a nearly circular shape even at two stops down from its maximum aperture.
• VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism creates greater opportunities for sharper handheld photography
  Tamron's proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization system uses a three-coil system, delivering significantly sharper images and creating greater opportunities for handheld ultra-telephoto photography.
• Comfortable autofocus
  Tamron's new SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD features a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ultrasonic motor drive for swift and accurate AF response, it delivers high torque, very fast response times, and very low noise. The full-time manual focus mechanism allows users to make fine manual focus adjustments at any time even when AF is engaged.
• New elegant, high-class external finish
  Tamron has upgraded the cosmetic design and finish of this lens to create a more sophisticated, high-end look in keeping with the demands of discerning full-frame DSLR users.
  Employing a sophisticated linear pattern rubber grip on the zoom and focus rings and an attractive and stylish tungsten silver name-brand ring, this newly designed model accentuates its visceral presence with understated elegance and class.
• Easy-to-use tripod mount
  The tripod mount has been completely redesigned to provide superior stability, durability, ease of use, and portability.
• Comes with "SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron", RAW image development processing software for Tamron's SP lenses

Canon USA just released the following software updates (thanks Marco):

• EOS Digital Solutions Disk Software 28.2A
• Digital Photo Professional 3.13.45
• EOS Utility 2.13.24
• ImageBrowser EX 1.1.0a
• PhotoStitch 3.1.23
• Picture Style Editor 1.12.2
• ZoomBrowser EX 6.9.0a

EOS Digital Solutions Disk Software 28.2A

Changes from EOS Digital Solution Disk Software 28.1A for Windows are as follows:

• Includes most recent software updates

Digital Photo Professional 3.13.45

Changes from Digital Photo Professional 3.13.0 Updater for Windows:

• Supports images taken with EOS 70D, EOS Kiss X7 / EOS Rebel SL1 / EOS 100D, PowerShot G16, PowerShot S120.
• Supports new lens (EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X, EF-M 11-22mm f4-5.6 IS STM).
• The accuracy of the white balance in M-RAW and S-RAW images has been improved.

EOS Utility 2.13.24

Changes from EOS Utility 2.13.21 Updater for Windows:

• Support for EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM with lens optical correction.

ImageBrowser EX 1.1.0a

Changes in the ImageBrowser EX 1.1.0a for Windows:

• Supports Windows 8.1.

PhotoStitch 3.1.23

Changes to PhotoStitch 3.1.23 Updater for Windows

• Supports Windows 8.1.

Picture Style Editor 1.12.2

Changes for Picture Style Editor 1.12.2 Updater for Windows:

• Supports EOS 6D, EOS M.
• Applied Noise Reduction processing to when displaying images.
• Added support for the new Picture Style file (.pf3).
• Changed the user interface of the Tool Palette.
• Added the Tone curve (RGB) function.
• Added the Six Color-Axes adjustment function.

ZoomBrowser EX 6.9.0aChanges in ZoomBrowser EX 6.9.0a:

• Fixed a phenomenon where the camera's serial number that is displayed in the shooting information of the image is not displayed correctly for some of the EOS 60D.

Download the Canon Software updates here.

We've all gotten shots we're proud of – that's why we're driven to click the shutter. But what's the most challenging shot you've ever captured?

What's the story behind your most challenging image? What was the end result?

Send us your story and the image you captured (640px on the long edge) to info@the-digital-picture.com with "My Most Challenging Shot" as the subject.

We're going to share the best stories and their pictures on our news feed over the next few days. We look forward to seeing your submissions!

Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G AF-S VR Lens image quality (ISO 12233 resolution chart) results are now available.

Preorder this significantly improved lens from Adorama or in stock at Amazon.

From DxO:

More than 15,000 DxO Optics Modules now available

November 6, 2013 - DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v9.0.1 for Mac and Windows, the new version of its image-processing software of reference for all demanding photographers. This upgrade means that DxO Optics Pro 9 now supports the latest full-format DSLR from Nikon, the D610, as well as Nikon's COOLPIX P7800 compact camera.

Based on DxO Labs exclusive approach of prior calibration of equipment in its laboratories, DxO Optics Pro 9 includes unique tools for processing RAW and JPEG images: the revolutionary new PRIME denoising technology, DxO Smart Lighting's intelligent optimization of exposure and contrast, powerful optical and geometrical corrections, and preservation of colors and details.

New DxO Optics Modules
DxO Optics Pro v9.0.1 benefits from the addition of new DxO Optics Modules. 250 new camera/lens combinations augment the library, which now counts nearly 15,400 available DxO Optics Modules.

DxO Optics Modules contain copious information about the characteristics of each camera and lens. This database allows DxO Optics Pro 9 to automatically correct distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, and lens softness with an unrivaled level of quality.

Availability and special offer
The Standard and Elite editions of DxO Optics Pro v9.0.1 for Mac and Windows are now available at photo resellers at a special discount price through November 20, 2013.

Adorama carries DxO Optics Pro 9.

From C-Plates Kickstarter Page:

Overview
Camera plate with true anti-twist for sling strap / holster. Choose Arca-Swiss style or Manfrotto RC2 series quick release type.

Inspiration
After seeing many camera plates, such as the Fusion plate and M-plate, our marketing director Greg was inspired to make a better camera plate. Once he had formulated a good project, he told our lead engineer Matt about this opportunity. Greg and Matt then reviewed existing plates and discovered that they could make significant improvements. We took this project by the horns and decided to start designing a camera plate that would far exceed the current plates in the market.

About our Plates

• Completely designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA! (Patent pending)
• The last camera plate you will ever buy! Our plates will work with any DSLR camera, allowing you to use the same plate, even when you upgrade to your next camera.
• Safety First – You can trust our plate with your camera. The main reason why the camera screw loosens over time is because of the camera twisting. Our plates use specially designed camera anti-twist arms. Once your camera is attached, the arms prevent the camera from twisting. This feature sets us apart from other plates, giving you peace-of-mind.
• Always have the assembly tool available – the allen wrench is stored within the camera plate.
• Battery door remains accessible when plate is installed.
• Our plate sits flat and never requires you to take your shoulder strap or holster pin off the plate. We accomplished this by off-setting the connection point; which allows the plates to work on all quick releases and provides plenty of clearance under the lens to comfortably use the zoom.
• Built-in hand strap attachment point (included, not an additional part for an extra cost).

Other Deatails

• Camera screw: Captive ¼”-20 screw (uses allen wrench stored within the C-Plate).
• Main plate: Aluminum, tumbled, and hard anodized (type III).
• Anti-twist arms: Aluminum, tumbled, and anodized (type II).
• Anti-twist arms available in colors: black, green, or red. Green and red are only available on Kickstarter (update coming soon with pictures). The arms are adjustable with allen wrench stored within the C-Plate.
• Anti-twist posts are machined from Delrin acetal plastic to prevent any scratching of the camera body.

See the C-Plates Kickstarter Page for more information.

From Canon:

New EOS C100 Camera Feature Upgrade Offers Outstanding Continuous AF Performance for Documentary, Electronic News Gathering, and Small-Crew Productions

MELVILLE, N.Y., November 5, 2013 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today that the Company will offer an optional feature upgrade for the EOS C100 Digital Video camera which will support innovative Dual Pixel CMOS AF autofocus technology, enabling continuous autofocusing with Canon’s entire EF lens lineup. This optional upgrade is expected to be available in February 2014 for a cost of $500.00 and will require the EOS C100 camera body to be shipped to a Canon service center.

The Canon feature upgrade will provide the EOS C100 camera (first introduced in November 2012) with greatly improved autofocus (AF) functionality made possible through Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. First employed in the EOS 70D digital SLR camera launched in August 2013, the innovative new AF technology helps facilitate greater shooting efficiency across a variety of shooting situations. For users that work with moving subjects, this optional Dual Pixel CMOS AF upgrade for the EOS C100 camera will allow for a smoother, more natural autofocus that can be particularly useful for video markets like documentary, sports, event and wildlife.

Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF makes use of the Company’s proprietary CMOS sensor technology with a new structure that both captures light and performs phase-difference detection autofocus. While focusing on the EOS C100 camera is primarily performed manually, the feature upgrade will enable smooth continuous AF, a capability that can be particularly beneficial when operating with a small production crew, electronic news gathering, or run-and-gun documentary-style shoots.

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF functionality offered through the feature upgrade supports continuous AF with all compatible Canon EF lenses for subjects positioned in the center of the imaging area. The complementary use of the contrast signal achieves advanced AF stability that helps reduce the occurrence of image blur. Also, the inclusion of an AF Lock function contributes to expanded shooting flexibility through focus preset, which allows users to set a desired focus distance in advance, and the ability to alter the photographing range or composition after establishing focus.

This optional feature upgrade increases the speed of the EOS C100 camera’s One-Shot AF function by approximately two-times, which enables users to focus on a subject located at the center of the screen with the push of a button, a feature that is currently supported on 104 Canon EF lens models.

This feature upgrade service will be made available to users through Canon’s product maintenance centers. For more information about this update, please visit the Canon U.S.A. website at http://usa.canon.com/cusa/professional/standard_display/eos_c100_feature_upgrade.

Adorama carries the Canon C100 Cinema Camera.

From Profoto:

Four years ago, Swedish lighting manufacturer Profoto challenged themselves to create the most easy to use yet powerful and versatile off-camera flash ever released. Today, the B1 is set for launch, together with a new TTL remote for Canon E-TTL II cameras.

“The B1 concept was born from a simple idea,” says Göran Marén, Product Manager at Profoto. “We wanted to make it as easy as possible to use an off-camera flash, but we wanted to do so without compromising the quality and versatility that photographers have come to expect from us. All the features of the B1 and the Air Remote TTL can be traced back to this single idea.”

The most notable of these features is the B1’s groundbreaking TTL function. This is a new, patent- pending invention from Profoto that integrates flash and camera. It works like this: you attach the Air Remote TTL unit to your camera’s hot shoe, you point and shoot with your camera, and the B1 automatically adjusts its output to provide you with a perfect exposure. Photographers who prefer adjusting the light themselves can switch to manual control by a simple button-press.

The Air Remote TTL is a small, hot shoe-mounted device that acts like a wireless link between camera and flash, supporting manual and TTL control of B1 lights in up to 3 individual groups. The remote is sold separately, so that photographers may choose the right remote for their camera. The Air Remote TTL-C for Canon cameras with E-TTL II support is launched together with the B1. The Air Remote TTL-N for Nikon cameras with i-TTL support will be available in 2014.

Another interesting feature is the fact that the B1 is completely cordless. Powered by an exchangeable battery and wirelessly synced and controlled with the Air system, it allows the photographer to bring the B1 anywhere and place it without regard to cable length. The battery will provide up to 220 full-power flashes, while the Air system has an operating range up to 300m (1,000ft).

The B1 is notably powerful for its compact size. Packed with 500Ws of light, it is about ten times as powerful as the average speedlight. This is enough to overpower the sun on a sunny day, or to light up larger sets or groups of people. The light output can be controlled in 1/10 f-stop steps over the entire 9 f-stop power range. The B1 is also equipped with a high-efficient LED modeling light, powerful enough to be used as a portable video light.

The speed of B1 is also worth noting, much thanks to the innovative Quick Burst. Quick Burst is a fully automatic feature built-into the B1, allowing the photographer to shoot up to 20 flashes per second at lower power setting. At full power, the B1 will recharge in less than two seconds.

As any other Profoto flash, the B1 is compatible with a wide assortment of Light Shaping Tools. More than 120 tools are available, each with its own distinct effect on light characteristics, distribution and output.

The B1 is officially released today, along with a range of accessories, such as the tailor-made BackPack M, a Quick Charger and a Car Charger.

Distribution has already started and the first products can be expected in stores during December this year.

Adorama carries Profoto gear.

North White Plains, NY – November 4, 2013 – X-Rite Photo Marketing announces its schedule of free November 2013 webinars that have been developed to address specific photography and color management topics and are designed to appeal to both professional and serious amateur photographers. During the month of November, X-Rite is offering 7 free webinars to help photographers gain new confidence and to learn quick, easy and powerful ways to enhance their photography and manage their workflow. The November webinars are designed to be informational as well as inspirational by offering photographers practical ways to improve their images. Webinar attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions to the live trainers.

“Highlighting the X-Rite webinars schedule in November are sessions hosted by two X-Rite Coloratti members – Mark Wallace and Sally Wiener Grotta. These free webinars are special presentations in support of National Calibration Month by X-Rite,” said Joshua Fischer, Product Marketing Manager, X-Rite Photo Marketing.

November 2013 Webinar Schedule

Date: Thursday, November 7th
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 pm EST
Title: Producing Your Own Magazine Style Book
Presenter: Sally Wiener Grotta

American Hands is Coloratti Sally Wiener Grotta's ongoing narrative visual celebration of those individuals who are keeping alive the traditional trades that built our country's diverse culture. In this webinar Sally shares the workflow for creating a gorgeous glossy magazine-like journal for her American Hands project. From choosing the photographs, to preparing them, controlling the color with X-Rite solutions, and preparing the final layout for printing. Attendees will receive special webinar offers.

To register for the free 1:00 pm EST (11/7) webinar, visit:
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/772229162

Date: Thursday, November 14th
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 pm EST
Title: Getting the Shot: A Conversation with Nature Photography Icons Marc Muench, Rick Sammon and AndyWilliams
Presenter: Joe Brady

In this live streaming webinar hosted by Joe Brady, three nature photography icons will discuss their techniques to be sure they come home with those "once in a lifetime" shots. Marc Muench, Rick Sammon, and Andy Williams travel the globe capturing breathtaking shots. They will share some of their tips and techniques with webinar attendees in a relaxed conversational format.

Here's just some of what they will discuss:

• "Know" where you're planning to go
• Anticipate the opportunity
• Stay focused on the image
• Control your color workflow
• Take advantage of serendipity

These nature photography greats will also take questions live. Join us for this rare opportunity to experience these three friends up close and personal as you learn how to get the shot. Attendees will receive special webinar offers.

No pre-registration is necessary for this free webinar. Simply click on the following link at 1:00 pm EST (11/14) and follow the on-screen instructions:
http://xritephoto.com/ph_learning.aspx?action=webinars&eventid=1608&eventdateid=5644

Adorama carries X-Rite products.

After no less than six teaser videos, Nikon has finally announced the camera it's been hinting at...

From Nikon:

Photo Pros and Enthusiasts Alike Will Embrace the Lightweight FX-Format Df D-SLR, Which Strikes the Ideal Balance of Classic Iconic Style and Advanced Imaging Technology

MELVILLE, N.Y. – The new Nikon Df is a modern classic designed for those who have felt a connection to their camera, who revel in the idea of going out to photograph an unfamiliar location, and who know the effort and ultimate satisfaction that is part of getting the shot. Announced today, the Nikon Df is a unique, advanced-level D-SLR that harmonizes Nikon heritage and modern performance in a lightweight and very capable FX-format camera. The new Df pays homage to the enduring style and controls of Nikon’s distinguished “F” series of 35mm film cameras, yet features technology similar to Nikon’s professional flagship D4 D-SLR. Released alongside the similarly styled AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition lens, Nikon’s newest FX-format D-SLR presents a versatile and reliable option to help passionate photographers truly achieve their creative vision.

“Nikon cameras have played an important role in documenting world history for the better part of 50 years, and have earned their position as a reliable tool that pros and enthusiasts can count on. The Nikon Df represents much more than a storied legacy of cameras; it’s more about giving the user a chance to truly enjoy the experience of taking amazing images,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “The design is unwavering, and the features are the latest in Nikon imaging technology. The Df brings together the best of yesterday and today for advanced full frame photographers.”

A Classically Styled, Thoroughly Modern Masterpiece
From a robust feel, to mechanical dials and finely detailed craftsmanship, the Df embodies the very best of Nikon’s photographic legacy. The classically styled camera recalls design cues such as a recognizable pentaprism and top cover, which is now constructed of durable, lightweight magnesium alloy. The top of the camera features elegant yet sophisticated mechanical controls for settings, letting users feel the tactile reassurance of adjustments, such as a familiar click stop for shutter speed adjustment. Additional dedicated dials also control ISO, exposure compensation, release mode and exposure mode, while modern controls are also easily accessible. The intuitive control layout allows for quick and confident setting adjustment, yet retains a solid operational experience that “feels like a Nikon camera.”

The Df has been designed with an emphasis on familiar intricate details made famous from previous generations, including the leather-textured top and grip, along with the body mounted shutter button with a threaded release port. The design also recalls the slenderness of the previous generation’s cameras, making this the smallest and lightest FX-format camera in Nikon’s lineup.

It isn’t all about good looks though, as this enduring design is coupled with legendary performance to create a very capable and extremely appealing FX-format offering for professionals and enthusiasts. The 16.2-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor of the Df is inherited from Nikon’s professional flagship D-SLR, the D4. The large 36 x 23.9mm CMOS sensor is praised for its ability to produce amazing image quality in a wide variety of lighting conditions. Whether shooting landscapes, wildlife or weddings, the frames captured with the Df exhibit amazing clarity, accurate color and a broad dynamic range. In addition, Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED 3 image processing engine helps propel image quality, yielding images with a natural color and depth, all while enhancing subtle and nuanced tones.

Additionally, like the professional Nikon D4, the Df performs well in a wide variety of challenging lighting conditions with an exceptionally wide ISO range from 100 to 12,800, expandable to a staggering ISO 204,800. The combination of low noise and wide range make this an appealing camera to take on the challenges faced by photojournalists and event photographers, as well as those who enjoy the pursuit of extracting otherwise impossible images using natural light.

A Feature Set for Passionate Photographers
The Nikon Df is engineered to enhance the experience of taking photos and represents a culmination of decades of experience and feedback from photographers in the field, the studio and the sidelines. From its proven AF system to modern connectivity and legacy lens compatibility, the Df contains the century’s best photographic features for an enjoyable all-day shooting experience.

• AF System: The convenience and precision of Nikon’s 39-point AF system is proof-positive of the benefits of modern technology. With 39 selectable AF points throughout the frame for precise focus, the Df also features nine cross-type sensors, and seven AF points capable of working down to f/8. Users can also choose from a variety of AF area modes to match their shooting style: 9-point, 21-point, 39-point, 39-point with 3D Tracking and Auto Area AF.
• Get the shot with 2016-Pixel 3D Matrix Metering and Scene Recognition System: This Nikon system analyzes each shooting scenario and determines proper camera settings, resulting in even exposures, accurate white balance and precise AF. To capture action sports, wildlife and other fast moving subjects, the Df has a continuous burst shooting rate of up to 5.5 frames-per-second (fps).
• Compose with a 3.2-inch LCD Display and Glass Pentaprism Viewfinder: Users can easily compose through the high-resolution LCD screen or the bright optical viewfinder. The LCD screen has 921K-dot resolution, making it easy for users to adjust additional settings, review images or compose using Live View. Using the glass optical viewfinder, users will enjoy 100 percent accuracy and a bright field of view. What’s more, the shooting data presented through the viewfinder has also been updated and digitized.
• Connect and Share Instantly: Another modern touch allows users to connect and share their images instantly using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter*(1). By connecting to a mobile device, users can download and share images or remotely fire the camera.
• Features for Creativity: Photographing dramatic monochrome or vivid landscapes is easier with Nikon’s Picture Controls, which allow for the customization of color, saturation and tone. The Df also features built-in High Dynamic Range (HDR) to combine multiple shots with enhanced tonal range, and two to five-frame auto-bracketing. For maximum control, images can also be captured in JPEG, TIFF or RAW file formats.
• Support for a Storied NIKKOR Legacy: In addition to being compatible with all current AF, AF-S, DX and AF-D NIKKOR lenses, the Df is also compatible with classic Ai and non-Ai NIKKOR glass. Thanks to a new metering coupling lever located on the bayonet, the user has the ability to once again enjoy their lens collections with renewed functionality. Full-aperture metering is also supported.
• Accessory System Support: The Df is compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS), letting users take advantage of i-TTL exposure or fire multiple units remotely using a Speedlight commander. To remotely trigger the shutter, the camera also supports the new WR remote system, as well as the threaded AR-3 cable release, which screws in to the shutter button in the traditional style.

A Classic FX-Format Special Edition NIKKOR Prime
The new AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition lens is the result of classic NIKKOR styling combined with today’s optics to create the ideal focal length companion lens for the Df. The design honors original NIKKOR Ai lenses, with colors, texture, and an aluminum mounting ring that is mated to the style of the Df. This lens is ideal for everyday portraiture, landscapes and casual photography, but offers a wide aperture and seven-blade diaphragm for natural image blur and a dramatic depth of field. Despite the timeless design, the 50mm f/1.8G is created with modern AF-S design benefits to give photographers rapid response, quiet operation and excellent sharpness and clarity throughout the frame.

Preorder Opportunities
Nikon Df DSLR Camera Body - Adorama | Amazon
Nikon Df with 50mm f/1.8G Lens - Adorama | Amazon
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G SE Lens - Adorama | Amazon

Check out Adorama's first look at the camera.

See the Nikon Df sample pictures.

From Spencer Boerup (creator) and the MagMod Kickstarter Page:

MagMod is the simplest, easiest, strongest, and fastest speedlite modifier system for Canon + Nikon hot-shoe flashes, period.

Over the past 8 years of my photographic career I’ve seen my share of bulky, awkward, and cheap flash modifiers. Each has their own unique problems and flaws.

• Velcro isn’t very strong and, quite frankly, is ugly and annoying.
• Straps, bands, brackets and knobs can easily get lost and each additional component adds complexity to your system.
• Flimsy gels are awkward to attach and are practically disposable.
• Some products are even designed to only fit a specific flash!
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None of this is an exaggeration, and if you're a working photographer you're probably nodding your head because you've experienced this too!

Don’t you think it’s time we have something better?

That's why I decided to make the best flash modifier system ever, and this is MagMod.

MagMod is a magical flash modifier system that frees your speedlite flashes from velcro, straps, and adhesives by geniously incorporating the invisible powers of magnetism. Each modifier is a single molded piece of high-quality silicone rubber that is sleek, compact, easy to use, and dead simple.

Get more information on the MagMod Kickstarter Page.

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Link to 5 Quick Questions