Canon and Nikon News for 2011/10 Report News & Deals

Use coupon code Loyalty15 and this link to get the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens for only $459.05 shipped at Abe's of Maine. Discounts show in cart.

I have added a focal length and aperture comparison to the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review. You will find it near the end of this review.

I have added an aperture comparison to the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review. You will find it near the beginning of this review.

Save $50-$200 when you buy an eligible EOS Rebel T3 Kit/Lens combination between now and November 23, 2011. Download the .pdf flyer for complete details.
 
Get your Rebel T3 at B&H.

From CP+:
 
We are pleased to announce that CP+ 2012 (Camera & Photo Imaging Show in Yokohama) will be held at Pacifico Yokohama, Japan during the period from February 9th (Thu) to 12th (Sun), 2012.
 
CP+ is the premiere source of photo imaging information from Japan, the epicenter of the camera and photo imaging industries, for consumers and businesses all over the world, featuring following events and seminars with English translator.
 
1. Keynote speech by the president of CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association based in Japan) representing camera manufacturing industry
 
2. Technological panel discussion for future trend by senior engineers
 
3. Latest technology seminar by 9 manufacturers, technology academy, etc
 
4. Delivery forecast of digital camera for 2012 essential for the digital camera industry
 
There will be executives from Overseas Friendship Partners, photokina, PMA and Salon de la photo.
 
For professional users, there will be symposiums to discuss about the capability of HD movies by single lens cameras as well as seminars to learn how to take movies with the latest information.
 
Last year CP+ 2011 was quite successful with approx. 50,000 visitors which was 20% increase against previous year. Journalists from various countries reported the world premiere information from among 45 World Premier Products from Yokohama to the world via a wide variety of media. CP+ is now taking its important role to transmit the latest information from Japan to the world.
 
Please come to join us at CP+ 2012 and meet the World Premiere Products waiting for you there. For details, please visit our web site below.
 
http://www.cpplus.jp/en/index.html

Think Tank photo has announced updates to their Modular Rotation System and Modular Rotation System Skin Components:
 
Think Tank Photo Releases Completely Redesigned Modular Rotation System
 
Santa Rosa, Calif. -- In response to customer feedback, Think Tank Photo’s has completely redesigned its Modular Rotation System to provide additional features and benefits, including easier photography gear retrieval, better equipment fit, and an updated/inclusive style. The Modular Rotation System consists of three product groupings: Lens Cases, Gear Pouches, and the Modular Component Set V2.0. The new items will be available for sale in December at www.thinktankphoto.com.
 
The Modular Rotation System is part of Think Tank Photo’s integrated modular belt carrying solution, which also includes its Skin™ components. The Lens Cases and Gear Pouches feature padded components and the Skin components features unpadded pouches.
 
The new Modular Component Set V2.0 includes the Lens Changer 50 V2.0, LC 75 Pop Down V2.0, Strobe Stuff, Speed Changer V2.0. All can be transported in the breathable Large Travel Pouch. All of the elements can be carried as a set or as individual items on Think Tank Photo’s Pro Speed Belt V2.0, Steroid Speed Belt V2.0, or Skin Belt V2.0. The new Keep It Up™ Shoulder Strap provides vertical support to any Think Tank Photo belt and includes a memory card holder.
 
The Lens Cases’ new features are:
 
• Wide mouth opening allows for smoother lens retrieval and replacement.
 
• One-hand drawstring closure with the auto-locking mechanism: only one hand is needed to securely close the pouch.
 
• Zippered bottom pocket includes seam-sealed rain cover.
 
• Top handle allows for easy gathering of multiple pouches.
 
• Smooth back reduces wear on clothing and helps components slide easily around the belt.
 
• Padding under lens cover protects lenses from bumps and bruises.
 
• Improved front pocket material for increased durability and elasticity.
 
The Lens Cases consist of the Lens Changer™ 15 V2.0 (accommodates tele-converters and small primes with hood in shooting position), Lens Changer™ 25 V2.0 (small telephotos with hood in shooting position), Lens Changer™ 35 V2.0 (24-70 2.8 with hood in shooting position), Lens Changer™ 50 V2.0 (wide angle lens—16-35, 17-40—with hood in shooting position), LC 75 Pop Down™ V2.0 (70-200 with hood reversed or in position), and the Lens Drop™ (standard telephoto zoom lens).
 
The Gear Pouches include the same new features as the Lens Cases, as well as:
 
• Secure front pocket with increased hook and loop.
 
• Improved rip-stop nylon for increased durability and discrete styling.
 
The Gear Pouches consist of the Strobe Stuff™ (pro-size flash with some lens modifiers attached), Slim Changer™ (standard-size body, lens not attached), Speed Changer™ V2.0 (pro-sized body, lens not attached, and small telephotos and pro-size batteries), Stuff It !™ (accessory pouch for all your stuff: CF cards, batteries, filters or pocket wizards), Little Stuff It !™ (accommodates most point and shoot cameras, including Canon G12 & Nikon P7000), Hubba Hubba Hiney™ (70-200 2.8 lying down or two to three smaller telephotos; includes shoulder strap), and the R U Hot ?™ (for water bottle, hat, gloves).
 
Both the Lens Cases and Gear Pouches come with Think Tank Photo’s unique Rotate and Lock design feature so that components slide along the belt or fasten in a specific position on the belt.
 
 
Think Tank Photo to Release Completely Upgraded Modular Rotation System Skin™ Components
 
Santa Rosa, Calif. – For those photographers who want no padding separating them from the gear on their belt system, Think Tank Photo has completely redesigned its Modular Rotation System Skin™ Components to provide additional features and benefits. These include easier photography gear retrieval, better equipment fit, and an updated/inclusive style. The new items will be available for sale in December at www.thinktankphoto.com.
 
The Skin components are part of Think Tank Photo’s integrated Modular Rotation System belt carrying solution. The Skin Components feature unpadded pouches and the Lens Changers and Gear Pouches feature padded components.
 
The new Modular Skin Set V2.0 includes the Skin 50 V2.0, Skin 75 Pop Down V2.0, Skin Strobe V2.0, and the Skin Body Bag. All can be transported in the breathable Large Travel Pouch. All of the elements can be carried as a set or as individual items on Think Tank Photo’s Skin Belt V2.0, Pro Speedbelt V2.0, and Steroid Speed Belt V2.0. The new Keep It Up™ Shoulder Strap provides vertical support to any Think Tank Photo belt and includes a memory card holder.
 
The new features are:
 
• Wide mouth opening allows for smoother lens retrieval and replacement.
 
• One-hand drawstring closure with the auto-locking mechanism: only one hand is needed to securely close the pouch.
 
• Zippered bottom pocket includes seam-sealed rain cover.
 
• Top handle allows for easy gathering of multiple pouches.
 
• Smooth back reduces wear on clothing and helps components slide easily around the belt.
 
• Secure front pocket with increased hook and loop.
 
• Improved rip-stop nylon for increased durability and discrete styling.
 
All Skin components come with Think Tank Photo’s unique Rotate and Lock design feature that allows components to slide along the belt or fasten in a specific position on the belt. They also feature the Skin system’s “sound silencer” functionality that silences hook and loop noise.
 
 
Learn more about these new cases at Think Tank Photo's web site.

Here are a couple of X-Rite press releases:
 
X-Rite Announces Eizo Monitor Support for its i1Display Pro
 
X-Rite and NEC Announce Partnership to offer i1Display technology to SpectraView Customers

Kenko Tokina has introduced the PRO ND100000 Filter (Google translation).
 
No, I didn't hold the "0" key too long. These filters are made for solar observation and solar eclipse photography.

Canon's PhotoPlus 2011 Press Release for your review.

Canon Europe has posted a new article: Inside the PIXMA PRO-1 printer.

The Zeiss 25mm f/2.0 Distagon T* ZE and ZF.2 Lenses were announced yesterday.
 
I had the pleasure of using the Zeiss 25mm f/2.0 Distagon T* ZE Lens at PhotoPlus Expo in New York City yesterday.
 
The build quality of this lens is on par with the other Zeiss ZE lenses - which is to say that this is an incredibly-well built lens. Zeiss ZF.2 Nikon mount lenses are built similarly to the ZE Canon mount counterparts. This lens is rather small (does not take up much space in a bag), but solid feeling (if you fill all the space in your bag with similar Zeiss lenses, your back may regret you having done so).
 
Image quality from this lens is expected to be on the level of the great Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 ZE Distagon Lens' image quality.

Apple Aperture 3.2.1 has been released.
 
This update addresses the following issues in Aperture 3.2:
 
Resolves an issue that could cause Aperture to quit unexpectedly at launch on Macs with Core Solo or Core Duo processors.
 
Addresses issues that could cause the Crop tool to switch to the incorrect orientation or resize incorrectly.
 
Resolves rendering issues when cropping images with Onscreen Proofing enabled.
 
Location menus are now displayed correctly on the map in the Places view when Photos is selected in the Library Inspector.
 
iPhoto 9.2.1 has been released.
 
What's New in iPhoto 9.2.1:
 
Addresses an issue that could cause iPhoto to quit unexpectedly on Macs with the 3ivxVideoCodec plug-in installed

Tamron has released Q3 2011 Financial Results (PDF).

Amazon.com has the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens in stock (Samy's and 17th Street are both reliable).

B&H let me know that the following are in stock or available for preorder (in stock very soon):
 
Nikon 85mm f/1.4G AF-S Lens
 
Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens
 
Canon EOS 1D Mark IV
 
Canon PIXMA PRO-1 Printer
 
New Apple MacBook Pro

Just announced: Lowepro Pro Messenger AW Series (press release)

Just announced: Lowepro Pro Roller Lite AW Series (press release)

Canon USA has now announced the Canon PIXMA PRO-1 Flagship Printer.

Lens flare test results have been added to the following review pages:
 
Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro Lens Review
Tamron 180mm f/3.5 Di Macro Lens Review
Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di Macro Lens Review
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di Lens Review
Tokina 17-35mm f/4 AT-X Pro FX Lens Review

PDN Press Release:
 
PHOTOPLUS EXPO PROVIDES EXTENDED SHOW COVERAGE WITH PPE TV INTERNET BROADCAST
 
Video Interviews with Exhibitors, Photographers, and Other Newsmakers at PhotoPlus Expo Provides Highlights of Show via Internet Video Streams
 
Oct 25, 2011 - New York, NY: PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo announced it will broadcast interviews with exhibitors, photographers, and other newsmakers at PhotoPlus Expo and WPPI NYC through PPE TV, a video streaming broadcast channel to highlight each day's events for trade show attendees and those unable to attend this year's show. PPE TV can be accessed via the Internet at www.photoplusexpo.com on Thursday and Friday, October 27th and 28th. Interviews will be conducted inside the PPE TV broadcast booth located on the WPPI NYC trade show floor in the North Hall of the Javits Convention Center as well as from exhibitor’s booths.
 
This year PhotoPlus Expo and WPPI NYC includes more than 300 exhibitors and 115 seminars and special events. PPE TV provides attendees, and those unable to attend the show, unprecedented access to all the latest news, exhibitor interviews, and seminar speakers. The Nielsen Photo Group will lead a team of broadcast professionals including Adorama TV and RETV to provide video interviews with keynote speakers and on-site product reviews with leading manufacturers that can be seen online, at the viewer's convenience. Through PPE TV, PhotoPlus Expo gives attendees an opportunity to see everything they may have missed and also provides a great way for non-attendees to see the latest products, services, and trends in the photo industry.
 
"We realize that attendees may not have an opportunity to see everything they have on their wish list and created PPE TV as a way to capture many of the highlights at this year's show for viewing at their leisure," explains Jeff McQuilkin, Director – PDN PhotoPlus International Conference & Expo. "For those unable to be in New York this week, we hope that PPE TV gives them a good sense of the excitement at the show and a good look at the products and trends going on in the photo industry. With Adorama TV and RETV as our broadcast partners, we know that PPE TV will be a quality resource for photographers long after the show ends on Saturday."
 
The PPE TV broadcast team will be posting, tweeting and blogging their way through the showroom floor and conducting interviews from the PPE TV broadcast booth and around the expo. Attendees are encouraged to stop by the broadcast booth to see interviews as they happen.

It is back - but won't last long: The Canon Store just received the refurbished Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens into stock - Only $1,999.20.

Just posted: Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review
 
Note that I'm looking for your hands-on experience feedback regarding this lens' AI Servo AF accuracy.

B&H has a limited quantity of Nikon D3S Bodies in stock (take advantage of the up-to-$400 Nikon lens rebates with this body purchase).
 
B&H has a limited quantity of Nikon 1 V1 Cameras in stock.

Phase One Press Release:
 
Improves performance of leading professional photographer’s digital visual assets manager
 
COPENHAGEN, October 25, 2011 — Phase One, the photographic image-quality leader today released Media Pro 1.1. Media Pro is a professional digital visual assets manager that supports rapid browsing, cataloging, searching, annotating, retrieval and sharing no matter where digital files are stored (such as shared folders, CDs, hard drives, DVDs or on other media). This new release features German and French localization and significant performance improvements.
 
Media Pro supports photo and video files from more than 100 different cameras and is well suited to managing large photo libraries. Images within Media Pro catalogs (more than 128,000 files may be saved per catalog) may be non-destructively edited with Capture One and with other image editing applications. Assets may also be converted into other file formats as required, and all catalogs may be archived, backed up, published via slide shows, web galleries, and distributed via email, contact sheets, prints, and other custom options.
 
What’s new in Media Pro 1.1
 
-- Faster importing and media rendering
 
Now Media Pro customers can choose between Capture One rendering and Apple/WIC rendering according to image quality requirements, rendering of Capture One adjustments and speed. For new customers, the factory default is set to Apple/WIC rendering. For best image quality and rendering of Capture One adjustments, the Capture One renderer is recommended.
 
-- Improved Capture One Integration with Media Pro
 
Used together, Phase One’s Capture One Pro for image editing and Media Pro for photo management, these programs comprise an optimal photography software toolset for photographers who need to manage very large, high quality image files and collections in a fast and efficient workflow.
 
Now Media Pro keeps Capture One adjustments when renaming and transferring files to other folders in Media Pro; and users can drop files onto the Media Pro application icon to have those rebuilt, selected and revealed in the front catalog;
 
-- Added support for the following camera RAW formats when using the Capture One renderer:
 
Olympus E-P3 and E-PL3
Sony NEX-7, NEX-5N, SLT-A77, SLT-A65 (all preliminary)
Sony DSLR-A580, NEX-C3
Panasonic DMC-G3, DMC-F3
 
Bugfixes on Mac
 
• Fixed a bug that could cause rebuilding or the importer to hang.
 
• Fixed some issues where missing items in the catalog could halt the thumbnail and
 
• preview generation.
 
• Fixed an issue preventing some RAW image formats from being imported.
 
• Fixed an issue causing panning in Media View to break after using the Light Table.
 
• Fixed a saving issue related to large catalogs.
 
• Fixed a launching issue related to QuickLook.
 
• Fixed some UI glitches with the Recent Catalogs menu, Custom Fields and the Organize panel.
 
• Made it possible to delete files on volumes with no trash e.g. servers.
 
• Made rebuilding items preserve existing orientation.
 
• CSS files are now accepted in catalogs.
 
• Fixed a number of issues relating to Notes files (.ivn)
 
Bugfixes on Windows
 
• Fixed an issue causing a license server connection error to appear whenever launching without being connected to the internet.
 
• Fixed an issue causing panning in Media View to break after using the Light Table. Fixed a saving issue related to large catalogs.
 
• Fixed some color management issues.
 
• Added warning if about to overwrite existing Web Contact Sheet.
 
• Fixed an issue where make and model metadata would be lost for converted images.
 
• Fixed broken preset saving functionality for Convert Image, Sound and Movie Files.
 
• Made the cursor automatically move to the next field when entering license keys.
 
• Fixed an issue that would make Custom Fields clear unintentionally.
 
• Made it possible to save new Media Pro catalog in the same location as an existing Expression Media 2 catalog.
 
• Made rebuilding items preserve existing orientation. In addition a number of minor bugs have been fixed on Mac and Windows
 
Availability and Pricing
 
Media Pro is available now via download for 199 USD and 139 EUR through Phase One’s Online Store and through leading professional photography dealers worldwide.
 
Media Pro 1.1 is available as a free upgrade to existing Media Pro customers.
 
B&H carries Media Pro.

Canon has posted financial results for the third quarter of 2011.
 
The presentation materials are a better read for most.

Lens specifications and distortion test results have been added to the following review placeholder pages:
 
Tokina 16-28mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro FX Lens Review
Samyang 14mm f/2.8 IF ED UMC Lens Review
Samyang 35mm f/1.4 US UMC Lens Review
Samyang 85mm f/1.4 Lens Review

Jill-e Designs press release:
 
Introducing Three New Jack™ Bags for Men from Jill-e® Designs
 
Compact System Camera Bag Leads Trio of Affordable, Eye-Catching, Casual Day Cases
 
ORLANDO, October 18, 2011 – Jill-e Designs, the leading maker of stylish camera and carry bags for today’s technology-rich, on-the-go lifestyle, once again has expanded its popular Jack Collection for men with three casual day bags that blend protection with eye-catching good looks – including the Jack CSC Camera Bag made specifically for today’s new Compact System Camera equipment.
 
Jill-e Designs also has introduced a lean Jack Swing DSLR Camera / Carry Bag, built to transport a complete DSLR system or other personal electronic devices safely, as well as a matching lens bag. All three of these new bags are currently available at photo retailers worldwide, and on the Jill-e Designs web site – www.jill-e.com.
 
“Today’s technology-rich, on-the-go lifestyle is lived by men as well as women – which is why we now have an option for the popular new compact systems, plus two terrific lifestyle bags for traditional DSLR systems,” said Gail Backal, president and co-founder of Jill-e Designs. “We’re giving men bags that protect their gear with style and help them look their best while they do their best. We’ve found that the Jack styling is also popular with women.”
 
The new Jack CSC Bag
 
The Jack CSC Bag offers several safe carrying options – including a convertible cross-body or shoulder
 
strap and utility loops that secure the bag to the user’s belt. It easily holds a compact system camera body and one or two small interchangeable system lenses. Or load it with any popular point-and-shoot camera plus a variety of smaller personal items including wallet, keys, cell phone and more.
 
The new Jack CSC Bag features:
 
• Stylish, weather-resistant brown ballistic nylon exterior
• Durable, top-grain leather trim
• Protective padded interior with adjustable dividers
• Double zip top opening for easy access to gear
• Convenient loops to carry on belt
• Convertible strap to carry cross-body or on shoulder
• Interior zipper pocket to safeguard small valuables
• Outside pocket for easy access to keys, smart phone, etc.
• Dimensions: (LxWxH) 9.5” x 3.25” x 7.0”
• Weight: 1.0 lbs.
• Suggested price: $79.99
 
Jack Swing DSLR Camera / Carry Bag
 
Fully padded and able to perform in close quarters, Jill-e Designs’ lean new Swing Camera / Carry Bag has room for today’s DSLR cameras, loads of accessories and personal belongings – even an iPad. With a profile of less than four inches and adjustable padded shoulder strap, this bag keeps gear close and secure in a crowd, in the elements, anywhere your lifestyle takes you.
 
In addition to a tablet device and an array of photo accessories and personal items, the Jack Swing Bag can hold a DSLR or SLR camera body and one-to-two medium sized lenses, or a DSLR or SLR camera body and a telephoto lens.
 
The new Jack Swing Camera / Carry Bag features:
 
• High-quality, weather-resistant ballistic nylon exterior
• Padded exterior walls and configurable Velcro dividers protect your gear
• Zippered bag-wide top opening ensures easy access to your belongings
• Adjustable shoulder strap provides better control, comfortable fit
• Protective wide pocket is perfect for tablet, netbook, e-reader or similar device
• Wipes clean with a damp cloth
• Dimensions: (LxWxH) 10.0" x 4.25" x 13.0"
• Weight: 1.1 lbs.
• Suggested price: $89.99
 
Jack Essential Lens Bag
 
The Jack Essential Lens Bag, a perfect match to the Jack Swing Camera / Carry Bag, is just right when you want to bring along a few more lenses or personal belongings. It can hold a 12” telephoto lens or two-to-three medium-sized lenses, plus a flash unit, extra batteries, memory cards and accessories and personal items. It’s crafted with the quality and features found in the Swing bag, to keep your gear safe and you looking stylish.
 
The new Jack Essential Lens Bag features:
 
• High-quality, weather-resistant ballistic nylon exterior
• Padded walls and adjustable interior dividers keep lenses secure
• Zippered top opening ensures easy access
• Adjustable shoulder strap provides better control, comfortable fit
• Matches the Jack Swing Camera / Carry Bag perfectly
• Wipes clean with a damp cloth
• Dimensions: (LxWxH) 5.0" x 4.0" x 13.0"
• Weight: 1.0 lbs.
• Suggested price: $39.99
 
B&H carries Jill-E Designs bags.

Canon Europe has announced the Canon PIXMA PRO-1 Flagship Printer.

The Canon 2011 Fall Lens and Flash Rebate Form is now available for download. This form is not needed for the rebates - they are instant (anyone in any country can take advantage of these USA retailer rebates).
 
See the Canon 2011 Fall Lens and Flash Rebate List for direct links to these rebated items.

The Canon Fall 2011 lens and flash rebates are now loaded onto the site. As I always say, the best time to buy a Canon lens or flash is when a rebate is available for it. Here is the new list:
 

Model	Rebate Amount
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens	$65.00
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens	$80.00
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens	$100.00
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM Lens	$100.00
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM Lens	$90.00
Canon EF 14mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens	$160.00
Canon TS-E 17mm f/4 L Tilt-Shift Lens	$170.00
Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5 L II Tilt-Shift Lens	$150.00
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Lens	$10.00
Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens	$40.00
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 L II USM Lens	$150.00
Canon EF 100mm f/2.0 USM Lens	$35.00
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens	$40.00
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens	$70.00
Canon EF 135mm f/2.0 L USM Lens	$75.00
Canon EF 180mm f/3.5 L USM Macro Lens	$110.00
Canon Speedlite 580EX II Flash	$30.00
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash	$20.00
Canon Speedlite 320EX Flash	$15.00
Canon Speedlite 270EX II Flash	$10.00
Canon Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX Flash	$40.00
Canon Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX Flash	$30.00

 
One more rebate note: If you take advantage of the new Canon EOS 60D rebate, take advantage of the $400 PIXMA PRO9000 Mark II Printer Combo rebate as well.

I'll add details later, but Canon USA has a new lens instant program in effect starting today. Through Nov 23rd, 2011, save up to $170 instantly on about 15 different Canon Lenses.
 
B&H has the rebates in place - look for the "Instant Savings:" on the right side of the page - or search the page for that text.

Through Nov 23rd, 2011, save between $100 and $300 instantly on the Canon EOS 60D DSLR.
 
The savings breakdown is:
 
$100 for the 60D body or body and kit lens.
 
$250 for the 60D body or body and kit lens plus the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II Lens.
 
$300 for the 60D body or body and kit lens plus the Canon EF-S 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens.
 
The rebate poster is available for download.
 
Get the Canon EOS 60D at: B&H, Adorama or Amazon.com.

In case you did not pick up on this fact from the Canon-published 1D X AF information, the new Canon EOS 1D X, unlike previous 1-Series DSLRs, will not autofocus when using lenses or lens combinations with an f/8 max aperture.
 
Chuck Westfall, through Arthur Morris, confirms this:
 
"AF is unavailable on the EOS-1D X if the maximum aperture reported to the camera through the electronic lens mount is smaller than f/5.6. This is a lower specification than previous EOS-1 series DSLRs. On the plus side, consider the fact that with most f/4 lenses including the 400 DO, 500/4L IS and IS II, and 600/4L IS and IS II, you now have 41 cross-type AF points plus color and face detection, whereas you had no cross-type points and no color or face detection during AF with previous EOS-1 series DSLRs using the same lenses, not to mention a significantly wider AF coverage area from left to right."
 
This is of course disappointing to many extender users. Canon does not currently have a bare lens with an f/8 max aperture, but adding a 1.4x extender to an f/5.6 max aperture lens results in an f/8 max aperture lens. And, adding a 2x extender to an f/4 max aperture lens results in an f/8 max aperture lens.
 
The largest group of photographers affected by this change are, probably, bird photographers (such as Arthur Morris) - who have been dealt a double blow with the 1D X. Bird photography typically needs the most reach possible - through both lens focal length and sensor density. Increasing focal length via extenders has now been limited (for autofocus to function) and the 1D X has a less-dense sensor than either of the previous 1-Series models.
 
There are still some Canon EOS 1D Mark IV bodies available.

From Canon Professional Services USA:
 
Canon Professional Services Program Announces New Points Qualification System and Website to Enhance Membership Opportunities For Emerging Professionals
 
Canon Hosts CPS Lounge at PhotoPlus Expo 2011 with a Full Roster of Membership Benefit Activities
 
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 20, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced an enhancement to the Canon Professional Services (CPS) program with a new qualification system for membership acceptance. The new CPS professional points system allows an expanded roster of equipment to qualify prospective members into the program. The new points system will help many professionals who were unable to join based on the previous membership requirements.
 
In April of 2010, Canon extended its CPS membership to qualifying videographers, cinematographers and filmmakers and the overwhelming response received from these professional clients has prompted the need for a third CPS support center. Under the new points system, professional image makers can now qualify with ownership of a broader range of professional products including DSLR camera bodies, professional camcorders, lenses and accessories (speedlites and wireless transmitters, etc). The CPS program is designed to extend Canon's support assistance to imaging professionals with fast service, equipment evaluation loans, and a range of other benefits. For details and additional information on the new CPS points system and to see a comprehensive list of all eligible pro DSLR and Video equipment, please visit the CPS web page at: www.usa.canon.com/cps
 
Canon will once again host the CPS Lounge during PhotoPlus Expo 2011 at the Jacob Javits Center, October 26th-29th. The CPS Lounge will be open to the public on October 26th at noon, the day before PhotoPlus Expo opens and will be located in rooms 2D02/03 and 2D04/05. In addition to answering questions and providing Clean and Check services throughout PhotoPlus Expo, Canon Professional Services will also host a number of great opportunities for CPS members to enjoy additional membership benefits:
 
Print Signings
 
On October 27, 2011, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. legendary Rock & Roll photographer and CPS member, Bob Gruen will be signing copies of one of his iconic images for the first 100 Gold and Platinum CPS members to visit the lounge. These limited edition prints will be produced on the latest professional Canon printer.
 
On October 28th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the CPS Lounge, Canon Explorer of Light, Vincent Isola will be signing prints for Gold and Platinum members. Images will be printed on the latest professional Canon printer.
 
Free Large Format Print Sample Member Images
 
CPS Gold and Platinum members are encouraged to bring with them their favorite image file to receive a free large format sample print of their image, courtesy of Canon Professional Services. Throughout PhotoPlus Expo Canon will station an imagePROGRAF iPF6350 large format printer in the CPS Lounge where Gold and Platinum members will be able to receive a sample print of their own image, limited to one print per member.
 
Free Clean & Check
 
Gold and Platinum members will be able to take advantage of free on-site Clean & Check services for up to two Canon professional DSLR or lens models. All equipment must be dropped off before 5 p.m. on October 28th in order to guarantee turnaround before the show ends. The lounge will not be accepting any equipment as of October 29th.
 
On-Site Registration Promotion
 
As a bonus for new or upgrading members, any person who signs-up, upgrades, or renews for a Gold or Platinum membership in the CPS Lounge will receive an additional free Clean & Check coupon. A registration kiosk will be available in the CPS Lounge to new and existing members throughout the show.
 
CPS Lounge Hours during PhotoPlus Expo 2011:
 
10/26 noon – 5 p.m. (Pre-show hours available)
10/27 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
10/28 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
10/29 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (equipment pick-up only)

Canon has made a video about the new EOS 1D X available:
 

From Nikon:
 
2nd Notice on the damage from the flood in Thailand
 
This is to advise you, following our first notice of October 11, of the latest situations of submersion at Nikon (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a consolidated manufacturing subsidiary of Nikon Corporation in the Rojana Industrial Park in Ayutthaya Province located in Central Thailand.
 
1. Damages
 
The 1st floor of all buildings at the premises are presently submerged and the water level is as high as around 2 meters and there arose no remarkable change since October 12. Operation of the factory has been suspended since October 6. It is reported that there is no human damage.
 
2. Estimated impact to our business performance
 
We still have difficulty to grasp the overall damages of our equipment and facility since access to the premises continues to be prohibited. We are now continuing our utmost to estimate the impact of the flood to our group companies and business performance. We assure you to immediately advise our findings once it is judged there will be an important change in our forecast.
 
3. Recovery
 
We are unable to define how soon operation will be resumed. It will take a certain time before the situation normalizes including completion of water pumping out from the Rojana Industrial Park. We have set up support system under the Emergency Headquarters for Disaster Control headed by the president and will endeavor to restart the operation as early as possible. Every possible measure is now under preparation to resume production by means as purchase of new manufacturing equipment, review of production assignment among whole Nikon group companies. As for drainage from the industrial park, we are requesting its acceleration to the Thai government, together with the Rojana Industrial Park authority, other companies in the Park and Japan External Trade Organization.
 
We deeply apologize you for any inconvenience caused by the disaster such as short supply of our products.

Nikon launches the free my Picturetown Pad application for iPads and iPhones.

Westcott has announced new Apollo Orb and Strip Light Modifiers (Westcott product page) for use with Speedlites.
 
Get your Westcott Apollo Orb and Strip Light Modifiers at B&H

In my Dec 23, 2010 What I Want From Canon for Christmas post, I requested a 1Ds Mark IV with "... the latest DSLR features (horizon level, better LCD, HD video ...) to be added to it. Increase the resolution and frame rate too."
 
As the dust settles on the big Canon EOS 1D X announcement, I am getting asked the question "Are you excited about the new Canon EOS 1D X?" The ONLY reason I am being asked is because the 1D X has fewer pixels than the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III it replaces.
 
I have personally chosen the 1Ds III over the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV as my primary camera because of the full frame sensor format and higher resolution. Otherwise, I consider the 1D IV a better camera overall.
 
So, the 1D X retains the full frame sensor I strongly want but gives up 3mp of resolution. And yes, I will probably be able to notice that difference. Here is an example (use the mouseover feature) of what this difference is going to look like - though the 1D X should be considerably sharper than the 60D. But the reality is, that at this resolution, 3mp is not a great amount. And the quality of the pixels matter. With the promise of impressive pixel-level image quality, the trade-off may be even less than it first appears. Again, reference the difference in pixel-level image quality between the 1Ds III and the 60D in the example provided.
 
So, even if I don't gain resolution by upgrading to the 1D X, I do not expect to lose anything of significance in this regard. Looking at the additional features I gain makes it easy to say that March will be a long wait for me and that at least one 1D X will definitely become part of my kit.
 
I am simply drooling over the 12fps frame rate. Better LCD, incredibly high ISO settings, improved self-cleaning sensor, new AF system, built-in level, better auto white balance, HD video ... the entire list of feature improvements is huge. The significanly-lower-than-the-1Ds-III's-market-entry-price-tag is also greatly appreciated (the 1Ds III was $8,000).
 
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
 
Perhaps the 5D Mark III will get the megapixels? My expectation for the 1Ds III replacement to precede the Canon EOS 5D Mark III appears to be coming true. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is an incredible camera for the price and continues to be great seller. My expectation [a guess] is for Canon to continue the 5D product line in some form and an EOS 5D Mark III, based on history, could very well be their 5D model line upgrade choice. I could see Canon making this camera an ultra-high resolution model. Perhaps with an articulating LCD?
 
When will a Canon EOS 5D Mark III or equivalent be announced? I have no idea. Canon does not share this information without an NDA - and I am not currently under such an NDA for this product, so please don't ask. :) Basing purchase decisions on rumors can mean a VERY long wait for a product to become available - if it ever becomes available at all.
 
Buy your gear when you need/want it is the advice I usually give.
 
Canon EOS 1D X Preorders
 
My guess is that the Canon EOS 1D X will be hard to get for months after it first hits the shelves. Preordering will be the best option for getting one of these cameras early.
 
At this time, I have not found any preorder opportunities for the 1D X. Perhaps the "estimated retail price" [Canon USA press release] and long delivery time may be holding retailers back from committing to deliver this camera for a specific price (some were burned on price in the last rounds of super telephoto lens preorders).
 
Continue to follow this news page to be notified of Canon EOS 1D X preorder opportunities.

The Canon Store just received the refurbished Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens into stock - Only $1,999.20.

The HOYA PRO1 Digital ND32 and ND64 Neutral Density Filters (press release) have been announced.

Check out the updated Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Camera Review placeholder page for more 1D X images, charts and links to other online information.
 
From Canon Europe: Canon Ambassador Frits van Eldik's first impressions of the EOS-1D X (thanks John):
 

CPN has posted The EOS-1D X Explained.
 
This article digs deeper into the Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Camera's features than the press releases.

Canon UK has published a worth-reading 8-page paper entitled Canon EOS 1D X Technologies Explained.
 
Again, a link to this page is now included at the bottom of the Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Camera Review placeholder page.

The Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Camera UK Press Release reveals more information about the new 1D X - a link to this release is now included at the bottom of the Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Camera Review placeholder page.

Replacing the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV and the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III is the just-announced Canon EOS 1D X DSLR.
 
Some pics are available on the Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Camera Review placeholder page. I plan to add more information to the review page later today.

Canon press release:
 
CANON U.S.A. LAUNCHES THREE PIXMA ALL-IN-ONE PHOTO PRINTERS WITH HIGH-END PRINTING FEATURES AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE
 
Featuring the new FastFront System and Software Upgrades to Easy-PhotoPrint EX and Full HD Movie Print
 
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 18, 2011 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced three new PIXMA printers – the MG4120 Wireless1 Photo All-In-One, MG3120 Wireless1 Photo All-In-One and the MG2120 Photo All-In-One (AIO) printers. Combining function, reliability and creativity, these new models offer users the opportunity to print high-quality images to share with friends and family. The new MG4120 is also compatible with the PIXMA Cloud Link2 for easy printing of photos and templates directly through the printer without the use of a computer on the 2.4 inch color LCD screen.
 
Print with ease with the new FastFront system
 
With the new FastFront system, the ink storage and paper tray are conveniently located in the front of the machine, allowing access for users to easily load ink or paper. All three printers feature the ChromaLife 100 ink system3, which utilizes a two cartridge system, one black and one color. The new ink system on-board this year helps deliver the high quality photos you can expect from PIXMA printers while providing brilliant colors particularly in yellow and red areas, especially on plain paper. To help optimize user workflow and print with ease, Auto Duplex printing is also available for the first time in this class on both the MG4120 and MG3120 printer, helping to reduce paper usage by up to 50 percent. As an added bonus, when using these new printers consumers will be provided with exclusive printable content through CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM4. The content on this site includes postcards, albums and many more projects including paintings by artists such as Norman Rockwell.
 
“It is an exciting time in the printing industry with new technologies and features helping users print in new and creative ways,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “The launch of these impressive models is a prime opportunity to showcase Canon’s renowned efficiency and ease-of-use in overall printing.”
 
Personalize your prints with new creative features
 
Full HD Movie Print5 software has been enhanced as well to produce clearer images of frames from videos captured on compatible HD Canon EOS and PowerShot Digital Cameras. Users can easily tell the story of videos from memorable events, frame by frame in a more unique way than before by merging multiple images into one final shot, capturing nearly every portion of the action. Consumers can explore their photographic creativity when customizing images with the recently enhanced Easy-PhotoPrint EX software. This updated software from Canon allows users to artistically alter images to create fun new looks using Fun-Filter Effects such as Fish-Eye, Miniature, Toy Camera, Soft Focus and Blur Background.
 
Accessibility at its finest
 
With the capabilities of mobile and wireless devices continuously advancing, the PIXMA MG4120 and MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO printers can print from nearly any computer or mobile device. Compatible Android and Apple smart phones and tablets enjoy enhanced accessibility through the updated Easy-PhotoPrint mobile app6. Users can now scan documents on the printer to be sent directly to a compatible mobile device. These PDF’s can now be printed on a compatible PIXMA printer for convenient on-the-go access.
 
The PIXMA MG4120 and MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO printers are 802.11n Wi-Fi certified, allowing for a fast network transfer rate. Setting up either printer to a wireless network can be done with the press of one button when using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). In addition, Canon offers its award-winning service and support online at www.usa.canon.com/wirelesshelp, where customers have access to manuals and video tutorials to assist them in setting up a wireless PIXMA device.
 
Increasing its wireless versatility, the PIXMA MG4120 Wireless Photo AIO printer supports the new PIXMA Cloud Link, which allows registered users of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY or Google’s Picasa Web Albums to wirelessly access their photo albums stored in those services directly on the printerwithout the use of a computer6. Additionally, users of the MG4120 will also have access to exclusive printing templates including stationery, envelopes, memos, calendars.
 
Canon PIXMA MG4120 Wireless, MG3120 Wireless and MG2120 Photo AIO printer
 
Delivering superb color at affordable prices, the PIXMA MG4120 Wireless Photo AIO, MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO and the MG2120 Photo AIO each deliver a maximum color resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi7. The PIXMA MG4120 Wireless Photo AIO printer can output at approximately 9.9 ipm for black-and-white documents and approximately 5.7 ipm for color8. The PIXMA MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO printer delivers output at approximately 9.2 ipm for black-and-white documents and approximately 5.0 ipm for color8. The PIXMA MG2120 Photo AIO printer provides output at approximately 8.4 ipm for black-and-white documents and approximately 4.8 ipm for color8. All three printers can produce a 4” x 6” borderless10 photo in approximately 44 seconds9.
 
The PIXMA MG4120 Wireless, MG3120 Wireless and MG2120 Photo All-in-One Printers will have an estimated selling price of $129.99, $79.99 and $69.99 respectively11.
 
CANON iMAGE GATEWAY
 
CANON iMAGE GATEWAY is an exclusive online photography resource and service for owners of registered qualified Canon products. Camera owners who have registered a qualifying Canon camera via their Canon Account can upload and share up to 2GB of photos with friends and family. Members also gain access to informative photography-related articles on topics such as macro shooting, portrait photography, printing tips and print projects to get the most out of their photos. Owners of registered qualifying printers can use their photos to create greeting cards, calendars and much more with Print Projects! Printer members are provided with a wide array of helpful articles to enhance their experience with their Canon printer and to help them create inspiring projects.
 
†Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
 
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
 
1 Wireless printing requires a working network with wireless 802.11b/g or 802.11n capability. Wireless performance may vary based on terrain and distance between the printer and wireless network clients.
 
2 Subject to the Terms and Conditions of use of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY or Picasa Web Albums, depending on the service the consumer is using.
 
3 Canon cannot guarantee the longevity of prints; results may vary depending on printed image, drying time, display/storage conditions and environmental factors. See www.usa.canon.com/chromalife100 for additional details.
 
4 To access CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM from a qualifying printer, all of the software and the full set of Genuine Canon Inks that came with the printer must be properly installed.
 
5 Full HD Movie Print allows printing from HD or Full HD "MOV" movie files created by Canon EOS Digital SLR or PowerShot digital cameras. From PC, or Mac with Intel® processor. Print quality is determined by video resolution. Function does not upscale video resolution. Requires Canon ZoomBrowser EX 6.5 or later, or Canon ImageBrowser 6.5 or later.
 
6 Requires Canon Easy-PhotoPrint for iPhone app, available for free on the App Store, or Canon Easy-PhotoPrint for Android app for free in the Android Market. Compatible with iPhone 3G, 3Gs and 4; iPod touch; and Android devices running Android OS 1.6 or later.
 
7 Resolution may vary based on printer driver setting. Color ink droplets can be placed with a horizontal pitch of 1/4800 at minimum.
 
8 ISO/IEC 24734define the default print speed measurement methods. Print speeds are the averages of ESAT in Office Category Test for the default simplex mode, ISO/IEC 24734, excluding time to print the first set. See www.usa.canon.com/ipm for additional details.
 
9 Photo print speeds are based on the standard mode driver setting using photo test pattern(s) and select Canon Photo Paper. Print speed is measured as soon as the first page begins to feed into the printer and will vary depending on system configuration, interface, software, document complexity, print mode, types of paper used and page coverage. See www.usa.canon.com/printspeed for additional information.
 
10 Supported paper types for borderless printing are as follows: Photo Paper Pro Platinum, Photo Paper Plus Glossy II, Photo Paper Plus Semi-gloss, Photo Paper Glossy and Matte Photo Paper.
 
11 Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

Canon press release:
 
TOKYO, October 18, 2011—Canon Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan Inc. announced today the achievement of two major manufacturing milestones: combined production of film and digital EOS-series single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras surpassed the 50-million mark in September this year, and the EF series of interchangeable lenses is expected to reach the 70-million-unit milestone later this month.
 
50 million EOS digital SLR cameras
 
Production of Canon EOS SLR cameras first started in 1987 at Canon Inc.'s Fukushima Plant (now Fukushima Canon Inc.), and later moved to Oita Canon Inc. and Canon Inc., Taiwan; and most recently Nagasaki Canon Inc. in 2010. In 1997, the EOS series celebrated its 10-year anniversary in addition to the 10-millionth unit produced, and in 2003 passed the 20-million mark. Following the rapid spread of digital SLR cameras, Canon went on to reach 30-million units produced during the series' 20-year anniversary in 2007, followed by the 40-million mark in May 2010. After a short one year and four months, the EOS series has now come to celebrate its 50-millionth camera produced.
 
The EOS series, which stands for "Electro Optical System" and also carries the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn, was first introduced in March 1987 as a new generation of AF SLR cameras that incorporate the world's first electronic mount system, achieving complete electronic control not only between the lens and body but throughout the entire camera system.
 
With the key concepts of high speed and ease of use, EOS-series cameras, including the top-of-the-line EOS-1 professional model released in 1989 and the popular compact, lightweight EOS Kiss (EOS Rebel XS or EOS 500 in other regions) introduced in 1993, actively incorporate innovative technologies and have gained acceptance from a wide range of users. Following the introduction of the EOS D30 in 2000, when the spread of digital SLR cameras was in full swing, Canon developed such advanced technologies as its proprietary CMOS sensors and high-performance DIGIC digital image processors, as well as an extensive lineup of EF lenses in an effort to fulfill the company's new key concepts of high speed, ease-of-use, and high image quality.
 
Currently, the company offers a broad product lineup that serves the needs of all levels of users, from entry-level enthusiasts to advanced amateurs and professionals. This lineup has further expanded with the addition of the new high-performance EOS-1D X, Canon's new flagship digital SLR camera, scheduled to go on sale in late March 2012.
 
70 million EF lenses
 
Production of interchangeable EF lenses for Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) film cameras first began in 1987 at the company's Utsunomiya Plant, and has since expanded to a total of four manufacturing centers, including Canon Inc., Taiwan; Canon Opto (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.; and Oita Canon Inc. in southern Japan. Production of EF lenses surpassed the 10-million mark in 1995, doubling to 20-million units in 2001. After reaching the 30-million-unit milestone in 2006, Canon celebrated the production of its 40-millionth lens in April 2008. Owing to the rapid spread of the EOS Digital series of digital SLR cameras, production for Canon's EF lenses then gained momentum to reach the 50-million-unit milestone in 2009, followed by the 60-million mark in January this year. And just nine months later, the EF series is expected to reach the 70-million mark in late October.
 
Canon's EF lens series was first introduced together with the EOS SLR camera system in March 1987, and has over the years led the industry through the incorporation of a number of innovative technologies, including such world's firsts*1 as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM) for use in lenses, Image Stabilizer (IS), Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) anti-reflection technology, and a multi-layered diffractive optical (DO) element.
 
Canon's current EF-lens lineup, comprising 66 models,*2 ranges from super-wide-angle lenses to super-telephoto zoom lenses. The diverse lens selection includes an array of zoom lenses, Image Stabilizer-equipped lenses, large-diameter lenses, macro-lenses and TS-E lenses incorporating a special tilt-shift mechanism allowing manipulation of image perspective and distortion. This year, Canon released such EF lenses as the EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM—the world's first*1 full fisheye zoom lens with angle-of-view coverage from 180-degree circular fisheye to 180-degree diagonal fisheye—and the EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM and EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto lenses.
 
Canon will continue to refine its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable lenses and cameras that cater to the varying needs of photographers—from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals—while contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.
 
*1 Among interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras
 
*2 Including two EF lens extenders and models available outside of Japan

Adobe press release:
 
Photoshop “Unblur” Technology Stuns Crowd at Recent Adobe MAX Event
 
Adobe MAX 2011
 
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today posted videos of the technology “sneak peeks” that were showcased recently at the company’s annual MAX user conference in Los Angeles. Included in the videos is the image deblurring technology, demonstrated in an on-stage demo by Adobe senior research scientist Jue Wang, which has become an Internet sensation.
 
“Adobe's technology leadership is ensuring that designers and developers have the tools they need to help shape the future of digital media.”
 
"We sneaked some early-stage technology from our labs during the recent Adobe MAX conference that exemplify the kind of technology innovation that is thriving across Adobe," said Kevin Lynch, chief technology officer, Adobe. "Adobe's technology leadership is ensuring that designers and developers have the tools they need to help shape the future of digital media."
 
The sneaks are intended to give MAX attendees a look at future technologies. These technologies may, or may not, make it into future versions of Adobe products. The demos are currently being hosted on AdobeTV, and include:
 
• Image Deblurring – removing blurriness from digital photos caused by camera shake while the pictures were being taken;
 
• Local Layer Ordering – a new way for graphic designers to create layered compositions that better reflect the way real world objects act;
 
• InDesign Liquid Layout – using InDesign to create high quality magazines that automatically adapt layouts across devices and screen orientation;
 
• Near Field Communications in Adobe AIR – using Adobe AIR to create applications that communicate with the physical world;
 
• Automatic Synchronization of Crowd Sourced Videos – synchronizing video clips taken with different cameras and from different vantage points into a single immersive video;
 
• Reverse Debugging in Flash Builder – the ability to step backwards in time while debugging a Flash application to better find the root cause of bugs;
 
• RubbaDub – automatically replacing the dialog of a video clip with separately recorded audio with perfect synchronization;
 
• Pixel Nuggets – searching through a large library of images by identifying images that contain the same people, backgrounds, landmarks, etc.;
 
• Monocle – a new visual tool to help developers find and fix performance problems in Flash applications;
 
• Video Meshes – an entirely new way to edit videos, including the ability to create 3D fly-throughs of 2D videos and change focus and depth of field;
 
• GPU Parallelism – using a device’s graphic processing unit (GPU) to accelerate performance of general purpose computing.
 
About Adobe Systems Incorporated
 
Adobe is changing the world through digital experiences. For more information, visit www.adobe.com.
 
© 2011 Adobe Systems Incorporated. All rights reserved. Adobe and the Adobe logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Through Oct 29th, 2011, Save $100 - $400 on select Nikon DSLR plus lens combinations.
 
Included DSLRs are the Nikon D3000, D3100, D5100, D90, D7000, D300S, D700, D3S and D3X.

SLIK has announced the Carbon pod 392FL, 382FL and 372FL (translated press release) carbon fiber monopods.

Nikon press release:
 
Steady sales of NIKKOR lenses continue
 
Total Production of NIKKOR Lenses for Nikon SLR Cameras Reaches Sixty-Five Million
 
October 17, 2011
 
TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce that total production of NIKKOR interchangeable lenses for Nikon SLR cameras reached sixty-five million at the beginning of October 2011.
 
In 1959, Nikon (then Nippon Kogaku K.K.) released its first SLR camera, the Nikon F. At the same time, Nikon also released its first NIKKOR interchangeable lenses for Nikon SLR cameras, among them the Nikkor-S Auto 5cm f/2. In the half century since, NIKKOR lenses have become the favorite lenses of a wide variety of users, and have been extremely well received by a great number of photo enthusiasts and professional photographers.
 
In March 2011, total production of NIKKOR lenses reached sixty million. Since then, Nikon has continued to expand the product lineup by releasing two new NIKKOR lenses for FX- and DX-format SLR cameras. The fact that NIKKOR continues to satisfy a wide variety of photographers is evidenced by production of an additional five million lenses in just half a year, bringing total production to sixty-five million.
 
NIKKOR lenses released since March 2011
 
• AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G (released June 2011)
A fast, standard fixed focal length (prime) lens that produces bright images and offers beautiful blur characteristics and superior rendering performance with a focal length of 50 mm and fast maximum aperture of f/1.8. This lens is compatible with the FX format.
 
• AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G (released August 2011)
A standard Micro-NIKKOR lens with a focal length of 40 mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. This lens enables extremely close-up shooting with a minimum focus distance of just 0.163 m and offers beautiful blur characteristics. It also offers a unique style when shooting portraits, landscapes and more. This lens is compatible with the DX format.
 
Announced worldwide on September 21, the Nikon 1 J1 and the Nikon 1 V1 are the first and second cameras in the Nikon 1, Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lenses, that utilize the new Nikon 1 lens mount system. The F-Mount NIKKOR lenses, with over half a century of history, can also be attached to the Nikon 1 J1 and the Nikon 1 V1 using the dedicated Mount Adapter FT1*. This enables users to enjoy tremendous variety in their imaging expression with the ability to select a lens best suited to the scene, subject, or their own creative intent from a broad lineup of standard and special-purpose NIKKOR lenses. Nikon will continue to expand its lineup of NIKKOR lenses utilizing optical technologies accumulated over its long history to offer increased convenience to users of Nikon cameras.
 
* Autofocus may not perform as expected in some situations or with some lenses. Restrictions apply to mounting and functionality with some lenses.
 
The NIKKOR brand
 
As the brand name for Nikon lenses, NIKKOR has become synonymous with high-performance, high-quality SLR lenses. The NIKKOR name comes from adding "R"—a common practice in the naming of photographic lenses at the time the name was established—to "Nikko", the Romanized abbreviation for Nippon Kogaku K.K. In 1933, the large-format lens for aerial photography was released with the name Aero-Nikkor.
 
NIKKOR has always been ahead of the times. The OP Fisheye-Nikkor 10mm f/5.6 fisheye lens for SLR cameras, released in 1968, was the world's first lens to incorporate aspherical lens elements. What's more, NIKKOR lenses for the latest SLR cameras utilize a number of Nikon's own cutting-edge technologies, including Nano Crystal Coat, which virtually eliminates internal lens element reflections across a wide range of wavelengths.
 
The current lineup of more than sixty NIKKOR lenses for Nikon SLR cameras offers a rich variety of lenses, including fisheye lenses, super wide-angle to super telephoto lenses, micro lenses and PC-E lenses.

Shane Hurlbut and Letus have teamed up to offer the Shane Hurlbut Master Cinema Series HDSLR rig.

From the forums: Cameras, Humidity and Condensation by Tony Drew.

The Canon EOS Rebel T2i has taken on the just-expired Canon EOS Rebel T3i rebate program. Through Oct 29, 2011, Save $50-$200 via instant rebate.
 
More details are available at B&H, or download the rebate flyer from Canon USA.

An inventory update at the Canon Store has made many refurbished Canon Cameras (including the 5D II - $1,999.00) and Canon Lenses available.

CPN (Canon Professional Network) has introduced a new homepage design and has made German, Spanish, French and Italian translations of the site available.

Ralf in Germany has informed me that there have been a rash of thefts from photography gear rental companies in the Netherlands and Germany.
 
"The 10th case happened here in Karlsruhe one week ago." PPL (Pro Photo Logistik - www.ppl.de, ppl@ppl.de) was the latest victim.
 
Here is the gear list from the PPL heist along with serial numbers. It is not likely that the theives plan to use this gear themselves, so please be vigilant in checking any used gear you are considering the purchase of.
 
1 Canon EOS 5D Mark II Body 230112319
2 Canon LP-E6
3 Canon BG-E6
4 Canon EOS 5D Mark II Set EF 24-105 230112536/1594738
5 Canon EF 17-40mm / 4,0 L USM
6 Canon Speedlite 320 EX
6 Canon EOS-1 Ds Mk II
8 Canon EF 16-35mm / 2,8L II USM 814171
9 Canon EF 24-70mm / 2,8 L USM 283051
10 Canon EF 24-70mm / 2,8 L USM 188604
11 Canon EF 70-200mm / 2,8 L IS II USM 161498
12 Canon EF 100mm / 2,8 Macro L IS USM 1703130
13 Canon EF 100-400mm/4,5-5,6 L IS USM 497300
14 Canon EF 28-300mm 3,5-5,6 L IS USM 20920
15 Canon EF 50mm / 1,2 L USM 713383
16 Canon EF 85 mm / 1,2 II L USM 45790
17 Canon EF 400mm / 4,0 DO IS USM 3769
18 Canon Eztender EF 1,4x III 7300002257
19 Canon Eztender EF 2x III
20 Canon TS-E 17mm/4 L Tilt/Shift 32527
21 Canon TS-E 24mm/3.5 L II Tilt/Shift 12323
22 Canon TS-E 45mm/2,8 12009
23 Canon EF-S 17-85mm /4,0-5,6 IS USM 32122728
24 Canon EF 70-200mm / 4,0 L USM 372050
25 Canon Speedlite 580EX II
26 Schneider PC-TS 4,5/90mm - Canon EOS 1064382
27 Nikon D700 2291901
28 Nikon MB-D10
29 Nikon SB-900
30 Nikon AF-S 14-24mm/2.8G ED 261349
31 Nikon AF-S 24-70mm/2.8G ED 457473
32 Nikon AF-S 24-70mm/2.8G ED 402412
33 Nikon AF-S 70-200mm/2,8 G ED VR II 20004955
34 Nikon AF-S 300mm/2,8 G VR II D IF-ED 200557
35 Nikon PC-E 85mm/2,8 D ED 202450
36 Carl Zeiss ZF Distagon T* 2.8/21mm 15736005
37 Carl Zeiss ZF.2 Planar T* 1.4/85mm 15777013
38 Carl Zeiss ZE Planar T* 1.4/50mm 15853446
39 Carl Zeiss ZE Makro-Planar T* 2.0/100mm 15837502
40 Hasselblad HCD 4-5.6/35-90 mm 7MSE10816
41 Hasselblad HC 3.5-4.5/50-110 mm 7GSx 16519
42 Hasselblad HCD 4/28 mm 7LSE13273
43 Hasselblad HC 3.5/35 mm 7AST13987
44 Hasselblad HC 2.8/80 mm 7CSU21614
45 Hasselblad HC 4.0/120mm Macro II 7EVV20240
46 Hasselblad HC 3.2/150 mm 7FSI11964
47 Hasselblad HC 4/210 mm 7HSP10098
48 Hasselblad HC 4.5/300 mm 7+VS11505
49 Hasselblad onXerter H 1.7 7ISE10774
50 Sekonic Dualmaster L 558 Cine
51 Hasselblad 555 ELD Body, Sucher,A12 12SV11072
52 Maga in A12
53 Planar Tp 2,8/80mm 8862962
54 Tessar CB 4,8/160mm 8164808
55 Hasselblad H1 Maga in 16/32
56 Hasselblad H2 Body, Sucher, Maga in 70SP10499
57 Sony HDx F HDTV Camcorder 1241078-9
58 Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III Body
59 Canon EOS-1 Ds Mk II Body

Late last night, while preparing to backup my work from the day, I inadvertently deleted file folders from the source drive instead of the destination drive. Make no mistake - this was a stupid move - done in a tired state of mind. But stupid happens. :)
 
I had a backup from the previous night, but ... restoring from that backup would would mean that a long day of work was completely lost. As thoughts of the movie "Groundhog Day" were going through my mind, I turned to Piriform Recuva File Recovery software (for Windows).
 
I loaded the free version of Recuva, selected my undelete-from drive, created a filename filter (*.jpg|*.cr2 in this case) and the software went to work. I was presented a list of the filter-matching files able to be restored. I selected the files I wanted restored (click on the first, shift-click on the last and press the space bar), selected the restore-to drive (never the same as the undelete-from drive) and Recuva restored 100% of my just-deleted files. As I had not written any more files to this drive, Recuva was able to completely restore my day's work.
 
File recovery software should be part of any serious photographer's kit. Piriform Recuva is one such application. SanDisk and Lexar typically ship photo-specific recovery software with their pro-grade memory cards. And I know that many more options are available - with some being more feature-filled than others.
 
The free version of Recuva includes a filename filter feature that was important to me for this recovery as I needed recover about 1,100 files out of the 106,000 files able to be restored from the drive. I keep the Recuva setup program and the Lexar and SanDisk equivalents on my always-with-me external drive for installation whenever needed.

Sample pictures have been added to the Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM Fisheye Lens Review.
 
Be sure to read the comments under each picture for more information.

The Tokina 17-35mm f/4 AT-X Pro FX Lens was formally announced today via a press release.
 
Adorama has had the Tokina 17-35mm f/4 AT-X Pro FX Lens in stock for over a week.

J&R has the Kingston 16GB SDHC Class 10 Memory Card for only $19.99. "Price Reflects $10 Instant Rebate thru 10/16/11".

Jill-e Designs press release:
 
Go Anywhere, Do Anything with Jill-e Designs Everywear Gadget Bag
 
ORLANDO, October 5, 2011
 
Newest Addition to Classic Collection 'Looks Like a Purse, But It’s So Much More'
 
Jill-e Designs, the leading maker of sturdy, stylish camera and carry bags for today’s technology-rich, on-the-go lifestyle, has come up with something entirely new: The Everywear Gadget Bag – a sassy blend of purse-like features and camera bag capabilities that’s the newest addition to the company’s quality Classic Collection.
 
The Everywear Gadget Bag has the dimensions of a typical purse – 12.0"L x 7.0"W x 10.0"H – and is equipped with dual 9.5” drop leather carrying handles. But inside it features pro-quality padding and dividers, with room for a DSLR camera body, two lenses and a flash unit – plus photo accessories and personal items. There’s also a protective sleeve pocket to secure a tablet, e-reader or similar device.
 
“Our new Everywear Gadget Bag looks like a purse, but it’s so much more – and that’s the idea,” said Gail Backal, president and co-founder of Jill-e Designs. “Wherever you go, whatever you do, no matter what you want to take with you, you can do it all with the Everywear Gadget Bag.”
 
Available in stylish nougat or black microfiber with rich leather handles and trim, the Everywear Gadget Bag features multiple pockets, pouches and compartments to securely hold all your lifestyle essentials from a pen and a pair of glasses, to an iPad and a complete DSLR camera set-up. Its quality design is strong on convenience, easy access, and head-turning good looks.
 
The New Everywear Gadget Bag features:
 
• Stylish, high-quality, weather-resistant nylon exterior
 
• Durable top-grain leather accent trim
 
• Dual 9.5” drop leather carrying handles for great control, comfortable grip
 
• Quality top zipper guards entry, makes access to your belongings easy
 
• Padded exterior walls and internal dividers organize and protect your gear
 
• Protective sleeve pocket is perfect for iPad, e-reader or similar device
 
• Multiple internal and external pockets for all your lifestyle essentials Task-specific and hideaway pouches for pens, glasses, personal items
 
• Exterior wipes clean with a damp cloth
 
• Maximum weight capacity: 15.0 lbs.
 
• Dimensions: (LxWxH) 12.0" x 7.0" x 10.0"
 
• Weight: 1 lb., 5 oz.
 
• Suggested price: $99.99
 
The Everywear Gadget Bag is currently available for purchase worldwide on the Jill-e Designs web site and at popular retailers, photo specialty shops and online stores.
 
B&H carries the Jill-e Designs Everywear Gadget Bag.

Nikon USA is apparently going to enforce MAP pricing on Oct 16th. B&H, closed for the holiday, already has the new prices in effect.
 
If there is a Nikon lens on your to-get list, order it now from Adorama or Amazon.com to beat the price increase.

Adorama has a couple of special price deals on the 5D Mark II.
 
Get the Canon EOS-5D Mark II Digital SLR Camera / Lens Kit with Canon EF 24-105L IS Lens, with 8GB CF Memory Card, Spare Canon LP-E6 Battery, Slinger Camera Bag, Flashpoint Pro Battery Grip, Adorama Digital Remote Release and Red Giant Magic Bullet PhotoLooks V1.5 Software ("$199.00 Retail Value") for only $2,991.70 shipped.
 
Get the Canon EOS-5D Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body Kit, Sandisk 16GB Extreme Pro CF Memory Card, Slinger Camera Bag, Additional Canon LP-E6 Battery for only $2,404.95 shipped. (backorders being accepted)

iPhoto 9.2 supports compatibility with iCloud and iOS 5. This update also addresses minor stability, performance and compatibility issues, including:
 
• Left and right swipe gestures can now be used to navigate between photos in Magnify (1-up) view
 
• Previously imported photos are now displayed in a separate section of the Import window
 
• Book/calendar themes and card categories can now be selected using a pop-up menu in the carousel view
 
• Resolves an issue that could cause some pages of books to print incorrectly
 
• Rebuilding a library now correctly preserves saved slideshows and books
 
The update is recommended for all users of iPhoto '11.

Aperture 3.2 supports compatibility with iCloud and iOS 5. This update also addresses minor stability, performance and compatibility issues, including:
 
• Aperture now automatically relaunches into Full Screen mode if the application was in Full Screen mode when last quit
 
• Pinch-to-zoom gesture now automatically activates Zoom mode in the Viewer
 
• Left and right swipe gestures can now be used to navigate between photos in the Viewer
 
• Microsoft Outlook can now be chosen in Preferences as the application used by Aperture for emailing photos
 
• Fixes a problem that could cause Aperture, running on OS X Lion, to quit unexpectedly when using brushes to apply adjustments
 
• Loupe now correctly displays magnification levels between 50-100%.
 
• Fixes an issue that could cause Aperture, running on OS X Lion, to display the incorrect color profile on externally edited images
 
• Import window now includes an option to delete photos from iPhone and iPad after they have been imported into Aperture
 
• The Lift & Stamp tool now displays the correct cursor icons when being used in Split View and Viewer only modes
 
The update is recommended for all users of Aperture 3.
 
For detailed information on this update, please visit this website: http://support.apple.com/kb/TS2518

Amazon.com has the Canon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR Body for only $399.95 shipped (via 3rd parties).

A Bloomberg Businessweek article discusses the effect of the flooding on Nikon's ability to deliver DSLR cameras.
 
"Nikon’s inventory of SLR cameras will probably last for about a month and the effect on earnings would be negligible should the company resume the plant’s operation within a month, Hisashi Moriyama, a JPMorgan analyst in Tokyo, said in a report dated yesterday."
 
"Suspensions lasting two months could cut Nikon’s revenue by 30 billion yen and operating profit by 5 billion yen to 10 billion yen, he said."
 
Not mentioned was the disruption to Canon production. At this point, I'm only aware that Canon's inkjet production has been affected.

Location to Serve as Western Hub for Education, Service & Training Operations
 
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 12, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the opening of the Canon Hollywood Professional Technology and Support Center to better serve its film and television production clients. The office, located on the historic Sunset Gower Studio lot at 6060 Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, will provide a local site to foster support, research, service and training for Hollywood’s thriving entertainment industry.
 
“We want to offer a one-stop shop where our clients can come to ask questions and explore our various products with the help of our highly qualified technical and engineering staff members. The Canon Hollywood Professional Technology and Support Center provides a well-equipped venue for working with professionals in a range of imaging industries, from film and television production to still imaging and professional output,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.
 
Comprehensive product repair services for Canon professional products will be available in the new Hollywood facility starting in late 2011. On-site repair operations will include two state-of-the-art camera body and lens adjustment rooms, Canon’s most advanced adjustment and calibration equipment, local spare parts inventory, and an experienced professional repair staff that will look to quickly return Canon’s professional products to their original factory condition and operation.
 
The Canon Hollywood Professional Technology and Support Center will also serve as a field extension of Canon’s Research and Solution Engineering Department, dedicated to ensuring that current and future products meet or exceed the demands of our clientele. As a local research and development center, staff will assess market demands and expectations for new professional imaging technology and look to build them into future product generations and customer support provisions. This represents only one of many initiatives and investments that Canon has planned to solidify its commitment to the film and television production community.
 
The facility will also support business opportunities by offering 1:1 meetings with major clients (studios, production houses, television networks, rental facilities, and others) to further build relationships and assess their needs. The new facility and local Canon staff will also offer hands-on education to current and potential clients on the latest Canon professional products. Courtesy visits by both existing and potential clients in the industry can be arranged to explore opportunities and assess Canon’s full capabilities. Guilds, unions or organizations affiliated with film and television production are encouraged to inquire about hosting seminars, events and industry gatherings at Canon’s Hollywood center as well.
 
The Canon Hollywood Professional Technology and Support Center will also host Canon Live Learning (CLL) workshops – fee-based seminars for professionals and enthusiasts looking to further their imaging education. In addition, the Hollywood center will offer other industry-related events covering a wide range of technical and creative topics within the professional production segment.
 
In addition to the business and Hollywood industry support mentioned above, the service and support facility located in the Canon’s new Hollywood center will also be part of Canon’s industry-leading nationwide customer service and support network. Canon’s customer service and support network includes Factory Service Centers in Irvine (Calif.), Jamesburg (N.J.) and Newport News (Va.) as well as five broadcast lens service centers located strategically throughout the United States. Canon service centers’ reputation for excellence is based on industry-leading repair turnaround times, high-quality repair services, personalized service and 100 percent US-based call center support operations, all based on Canon factory standards and processes and designed to provide complete customer satisfaction.

Ready for some bird photography? Next up in the forum-sourced photography tips: Backyard Bird Photography Setup Tips by Joel Eade.

B&H has updated their current Canon Rebates and Nikon Rebates pages.

Here are some deals currently available at Adorama:
 
 
Bescor LED-25 25W LED On-Camera Light for Camcorders and DSLRs
 
Save 49%, Regular Price $39, Sale Price $19.95, FREE SHIPPING
 
 
Lexar 16GB, 200x Platinum II High Speed Series, Compact Flash Memory Card - PACK OF 3 & Adorama Tri-fold Memory Card Wallet
 
Sale Price $79.95, Reg one for 59.95, now 3 @ 99.95, FREE SHIPPING
 
 
Lexar 16GB 100x Platinum II Series, Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card - Pack of 3 & Memory Card Wallet
 
Sale Price $29.95, Reg one for 29.95 now 3 @ 59.95, FREE SHIPPING
 
 
Lexar 32GB, 100x Platinum II Series, Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card Pack of 2 Cards - Bundle - with Memory Card Holder
 
Sale Price $79.95, Reg 59.95 now two for 79.95, FREE SHIPPING
 
 
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera/ Lens Kit, with EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens, 8GB SD Memory Card, Slinger Camera Bag,Spare LP-E8 Lithium-Ion Rehargeable Battery, USB 2.0 SD Card Reader
 
Save 14%, Regular Price $1169.16, Sale Price $999.95, FREE SHIPPING
 
 
Sigma 18mm - 200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS (Optical Stabilizer) HSM Autofocus Aspherical Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras - USA Warranty
 
Save 13%, Regular Price $399, Sale Price $349, FREE SHIPPING
 
 
Nikon D7000 Digital SLR Camera Body Kit - U.S.A. Warranty - with 8GB SD Memory Card, Camera System Bag, Mack 3 Year Extended Warranty, USB 2.0 SD Card Reader - FREE: Red Giant Magic Bullet PhotoLooks V1.5 Software, for Mac & Windows a $199.00 Retail V
 
Save 21%, Regular Price $1,525.80, Sale Price $1,199.95, Expires 10/15/11, FREE SHIPPING

Get 10% off of 14 "Select Sigma Lenses" at Abe's of Maine. Try using coupon code LOYALTY15 for a possible additional $15 off.
 
Also at Abe's, use coupon code LOYALTY15 and this link to get the Tamron 18-270mm Di II VC PZD Lens for only $529.95 shipped after rebate.

ISO 12233 test results showing Tokina 16-28mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro FX Lens image quality have been added to the site.

Nikon press release:
 
Notice on the damage from the flood in Thailand
 
October 11, 2011
 
Nikon (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a consolidated subsidiary of Nikon Corporation in the Rojana Industrial Park in Ayutthaya Province located in Central Thailand, is submerged by the flood caused by torrential rainfall since last July.
 
The latest situations at Nikon (Thailand) Co., Ltd. are as follows:
 
1. Damages
 
The 1st floor of all buildings at the premises are presently submerged. Details of the damages are now under investigation. As for the employees, the human damage has not been reported so far. The factory is suspending its operation since October 6.
 
2. Estimated impact to our business performance
 
We are now doing our utmost to estimate the impact of the flood to our group companies and business performance. We assure you to immediately advise the findings once it is judged there will be an important change in our forecast.
 
3. Recovery
 
We are continuing to investigate details of the damage, but are unable to predict how soon operation will be resumed. We will set up our recovery support system and endeavor to restart its operation as early as possible. We are now requesting drainage of the industrial park to the Thai government, together with the Rojana Industrial Park authority, other companies in the Park and Japan External Trade Organization.

Today only - Get 50% off Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 at Adobe.com.
 
Important: This deal does not show on the landing page. Simply click on the Lightroom deal on that page to get to the 50% off price.

Save up to $310.95 on the following six "imported" Nikon lenses on sale at B&H through Wed 10am EST (EDT?) - or while limited supply lasts:
 
Nikon 20mm f/2.8D AF Lens
Nikon 300mm f/4D AF-S Lens
Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G AF-S Lens
Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Lens
Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G AF-S DX VR Lens
Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G AF-S VR Lens

Based on feedback from so many of you, the site index will now, by default, show at the bottom of each page (home page excluded).
 
If this is not your preference, simply click on the button in the bottom navigation bar to toggle this display.
 
Thanks!

ISO 12233 test results showing Samyang 35mm f/1.4 US UMC Lens image quality have been added to the site.
 
Again, this is a full manual lens - including manual aperture with stopped-down metering.

ISO 12233 test results showing Samyang 85mm f/1.4 Lens (Rokinon/Bower) image quality have been added to the site.
 
These results are not bad at all for such a cheap lens. Remember that this is a full manual lens - including manual aperture with stopped-down metering.

From B&H:
 
The B&H SuperStore and Offices will close Wednesday, October 12, at 1:00PM EDT through Sunday, October 23 at 10:00AM EDT.
 
The B&H SuperStore and offices will close in observance of the Succos Holiday on Wednesday, October 12, at 1:00PM EDT, and will reopen on Sunday, October 23 at 10:00AM EDT.
 
All orders placed before Wednesday, October 12, at 7:00AM EDT will be processed normally.
 
Orders placed after the above times will be processed when we reopen.
 
Online ordering will be unavailable from Wednesday, October 12, at 6:15PM EDT through Saturday, October 15, at 7:30PM EDT and from Wednesday, October 19, at 6:00PM EDT through Saturday, October 22, at 7:15PM EDT.
 
Again, to have your order shipped before Succos, place your order before Wednesday, October 12, at 7:00AM EDT

Tamron USA is offering a $75 rebate on the Tamron 18-270mm Di II VC PZD Lens through Oct 19th, 2011.

Newegg.com has Adobe Photoshop CS5 Full for Windows on sale for only $449.99 shipped! This is a "Shell Shocker" deall - while supplies last. PS CS5 is regularly $699.99 (thanks Jack).

Bob Williams has been lining up some reference forum posts for the site's Photography Tips section.
 
First up is Bob's own Hummingbird Photography Tips.

They are back, and once again, the rebate amounts are significant.
 
Buy a Canon PIXMA PRO9000 or PRO94500 Mark II Printer and get a $200 or $300 rebate.
 
Buy a Canon PIXMA PRO9000 or PRO94500 Mark II Printer along with a Canon EOS 5D II, 60D, T3i, T2i or T3 DSLR camera and get a $400 or $500 rebate.
 
Rebates are in the form of an American Express Reward Card.

B&H has dropped the price of the EOS 60D to $904.95 shipped and the T3i Kit to $789.95 shipped after the instant rebate. Find them here.

Results from the Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon T* ZE Lens have been added to the Flare Tool.

Results from the Samyang 14mm f/2.8 IF ED UMC Lens have been added to the ISO 12233 Chart Tool.

From X-Rite:
 
X-Rite extends a sincere thank you for your continued patience as we prepare to deliver our Apple OS X Lion compatible i1Profiler D2LionEdition software for your use with either an i1Display LT or i1Display 2 device.
 
We have news to share to get you up and running on Lion with your X-Rite solution:
 
FREE UPDATE
 
This software will now be available FREE of charge to ALL registered owners, not just to those that purchased in 2011. Please note that i1Profiler D2LionEdition is only compatible with Apple OSX 10.7.
 
PUBLIC BETA NOW AVAILABLE
 
We have been engaged in beta testing over the last several weeks and are confident we are well on our way to delivering a high quality software solution. During the beta test, however, our engineers uncovered some unforeseen issues that are affecting a very small population of our testers. We would like to take some additional time to fix these so we can deliver the professional solution you expect from X-Rite. But, we also understand that you are anxious to use your i1Display device with Lion. Therefore, we are providing a public beta version that you can download and immediately begin using with your i1Display LT or i1Display 2 device.
 
http://www.xrite.com/custom_page.aspx?PageID=284
 
Note: This link contains the software download link and information on known issues and correlated work around.
 
The beta version contains an Auto Update, so when the final release version becomes available, your system will automatically be updated.
 
We welcome any feedback regarding your beta experience. Please send emails to: D2LionEditionBeta@xrite.com.
 
We thank you for your continued support of X-Rite solutions.
 
Learn more about the X-Rite i1Display models at B&H.

The Nikon 85mm f/1.4G AF-S Lens is in stock - supply is limited.
 
The Nikon V1 is available for preorder.
 
Voigtlander lenses for Canon & Nikon mounts are now in stock.
 
And a deal: The SanDisk 16GB Extreme Pro SDHC UHS-I Memory Card is $49.95 shipped.

The Canon Store just received a large selection of refurbished Canon lenses. Lot of great models available - expect like-new gear at very nice prices. Many cameras are also available.

Tenba press release:
 
Tenba Expands Popular Discovery Collection
 
New Top Load and Messenger bags are lightweight and built for all-day carrying comfort
 
Elmsford NY – October 3, 2011 – Leading the way in carrying solutions for over 30 years, Tenba announces another expansion of its popular Discovery collection of lightweight professional-level camera bags. Tenba has added the new Top Load and Photo/Laptop Messenger bags to further broaden a product line that has been designed with active outdoor photographers in mind. The Discovery Top Load is a clean and simple carrying solution for a single DSLR camera body with a mid-size zoom lens, while the Discovery Messenger fits a larger multi-lens camera system plus a tablet or laptop computer up to 13 inches.
 
“In search of comfort and convenience, photographers are carrying less equipment now than in previous years,” said Jan Lederman, President of MAC Group. “All-In-One zoom lenses, tablets and ultra-portable laptops are allowing people to significantly decrease the size and weight of the gear that hangs off their shoulders, and the Discovery Top Load and Messenger bags are designed to carry those smaller systems.”
 
The Discovery Top Load enables photographers to securely carry their bare essentials camera kit – perfect for day trips and quick photo shoots. The bag weighs only 16 ounces, yet it will fit a professional-size DSLR camera body up to the size of a Canon 5D or Nikon D700, plus a zoom lens up to five inches long (e.g. 24-70mm f/2.8), and then still offer room for extra batteries, memory cards and other important items.
 
For those photographers who need a slightly larger camera system, but still want comfort and less weight, the Discovery Messenger is ideal. The bag fits a DSLR camera body with 2-3 lenses and accessories, plus a tablet or laptop up to 13 inches. In addition, it has all the hallmarks of a great Messenger bag – lots of pockets, body-hugging design, and a removable photo insert so that the bag can be converted for non-photo, general-purpose use.
 
As with all Discovery bags, the Top Load and Messenger have a waterproof bottom panel for protection when the bag has to be put down on a wet surface, and they include Tenba’s exclusive WeatherWrap™ fast-deploying all-weather cover.
 
The new Discovery Top Load and Messenger bags are available now at suggested retail prices of $69.95 to $109.95 respectively. To find more information about these bags, and to see a full video demonstration of all Tenba products, visit www.tenba.com.
 
B&H carries the Tenba Discovery line.

Epson is offering a $1,000.00 instant rebate on the Epson Stylus Pro 7900 and Epson Stylus Pro 9900 Printers.

Adorama has the new Tokina 17-35mm f/4 AT-X Pro FX Lens (Canon mount) | (Nikon mount) in stock (thanks Alexandre).

The Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 II DC OS Lens (press release) has been announced.

Lowepro has introduced the DSLR Video Fastpack AW Series Backpacks (Lowepro product page).
 
B&H has the Lowepro DSLR Video Fastpack AW Series Backpacks in stock.

Save $50 - $200 on your Canon EOS Rebel T3i or T3 DSLR Camera kit combinations (click the "Buy Together & Save" links to get the extra-lens savings). The T3i rebate expires Oct 15, 2011, the T3 rebate expires Oct 29, 2011.
 
Here is the Canon rebate form.

Adobe has announced Creative Cloud (press release)
 
Other Adobe announcements made today:
 
Adobe Touch Apps Redefine Creative
 
Adobe Announces Agreement to Acquire Nitobi, Creator of PhoneGap
 
Adobe Acquires Web Typography Innovator Typekit
 
Adobe Digital Publishing Suite, Single Edition Democratizes Tablet Publishing
 
Adobe and WoodWing Accelerate Publishing on Tablets With Adobe's Industry-Leading Digital Publishing Suite
 
Adobe Advances Entertainment Apps for TVs

B&H has Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 for 50% off plus free shipping (thanks Scott)! This is a 24 hour only deal.

The refurbished Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens just arrived in stock at the Canon Store - $1,119.20.
 
Paul suggested that I let you know that Adorama has the refurbished Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x Macro Lens in stock for only $789.95 (thanks Paul). Click here to find the other "Item on Special" Canon refurbished items at Adorama.

When I scheduled my photo trip to Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks nearly a year in advance, my plan was to shoot both landscape and wildlife images. With Canon's Canon EF 500mm f/4 L IS II USM Lens and Canon EF 600mm f/4 L IS II USM Lens scheduled to arrive before my trip, I planned to take one of these long lenses with me.
 
The arrival of these lenses was of course delayed by the tragedy in Japan, so I decided to take both the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens and the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens with me - along with both Canon Extender IIIs. Carrying these large lenses along with a full landscape kit including three Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III bodies (and a smaller telephoto zoom lens) onto an RJA (Regional Jet Aircraft) is of course a challenge.
 
To meet this challenge, I packed the two super telephoto lenses into my Lowepro Pro Trekker 400 AW Camera Backpack using a creative padded divider layout. I squeezed two 1Ds III bodies into the pack along with a variety of other supplies including 5 spare batteries, filters, memory cards ... This pack was my "carry-on" - and I know from previous trips that it fits under the aisle seat of an RJA.
 
This meant that my "personal item" was going to have to carry many lenses and the 3rd camera body. Think Tank Photo provided me with what they thought was their largest available "personal item" -qualifying bag - the Think Tank Photo Urban Disguise 60 V2.0.
 
The Urban Disguise 60 V2.0 proved to be the right choice. I loaded my laptop, 3 mid-sized lenses, a 70-300 L, an EOS 1Ds III and many other items including a pair of portable backup drives into it. It tightly fit into the RJA overhead compartment. Note that filling the middle section of this bag and adding bodies in the front pouch makes this bag too large to fit into the overhead compartment of the RJA I was on (4 seats wide).
 
I packed some additional (backup) lenses into my checked luggage along with a pair of tripods (you can sometimes nearly double the take-home from a great sunrise or sunset with two cameras ready) and a monopod. I was carrying about 70 lbs through the airport (yes, I belive that was over the weight limit). Carrying 70 lbs through airports is of course not fun - especially when I had to run 89 gates to catch a connection in Denver. But, these bags worked out very well.
 
In hindsight, I would have left the 300 II and 400 II at home. The targets I found for these lenses were not within reasonable carrying distance - most were 4-5 miles up into the trails. I carried the 70-300 L along with my 24-105 L on separate bodies until my own body could not take the weight of both bodies any longer. The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens on a 1Ds III once again proved to be my go-to combination. Yes, there were times when I could have used wider and longer lenses, but with nearly 50 miles of hiking up into mountains on my schedule, panoramas and cropping were the options I elected for much of this trip.