Canon and Nikon News for 2011/03 Report News & Deals

Newegg.com has the Seagate FreeAgent GoFlex 1.5TB USB 3.0 External 2.5" Hard Drive STAA1500100 on sale for $109.99 shipped (regularly $149.99).
 
Create a new Newegg.com account (registering a new email address) and qualify for the $25 off $100 promocode: NEWGEEK25
 
Use the $25/$100 for the Seagate drive - or anything else you want.
 
These deals are limited times and limited quantities. Don't wait if you intend to make a purchase.

Update on Epson's Response to Tohoku Area Earthquake
 
– TOKYO, Japan, March 31, 2011 –
 
Epson today issued an update on the situation surrounding its employees and businesses in the aftermath of the earthquake that struck the Tohoku area of Japan on March 11. A Disaster Headquarters led by President Minoru Usui has confirmed the following:
 
1. Epson employees
 
The company confirmed that although no casualties had been reported among Epson staff as of release time, it was still unable to make contact with one employee. Epson is continuing to make every effort to confirm the employee's safety.
 
2. Major Epson facilities affected
 
Epson has a network of more than 40 manufacturing sites located all around the world. Of these, the four plants listed below were affected by the earthquake with all other sites remaining fully operational. Recovery work is underway at the affected plants with the exception of the Epson Toyocom Corporation Fukushima Plant, which is within the 20-km compulsory evacuation zone around the Tokyo Electric Power Company's Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power station.
 
(1) Epson Atmix Corporation
(Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture: manufacture of powdered metals, components manufactured with metal injection molding, and artificial quartz)
Epson plans to resume production of components manufactured with metal injection molding and artificial quartz from the start of April. Production facilities and equipment for powdered metals was affected by water in the tsunami, and we plan to resume production at the end of April.
 
(2) Akita Epson Corporation
(Yuzawa, Akita Prefecture: manufacture of printer components, crystal devices, and ultra-precision components)
We resumed production of all product lines on March 22. We will continue production while constantly assessing the power and fuel supply situation.
 
(3) Seiko Epson Corporation Sakata Plant and Tohoku Epson Corporation
(Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture: manufacture of inkjet printer components and semiconductors)
We resumed production of inkjet printer components and partial production of semiconductors on March 28. We will continue production while constantly assessing the power and materials procurement situation.
 
(4) Epson Toyocom Corporation Fukushima Plant
(Minami-Soma, Fukushima Prefecture: manufacture of crystal devices)
This plant has been closed indefinitely.
 
3. Impact on other businesses
 
Production may be affected by issues relating to procuring certain components. Epson is now looking to minimize the impact by procuring alternative components and making technical adjustments.
 
4. Impact on business results
 
Epson is presently assessing the impact of damage caused by the earthquake and the subsequent effect on the full-year consolidated financial results (year ending March 31, 2011). The company will issue a timely disclosure release as and when it becomes necessary.

3rd Notice on the impact by the Major Earthquake in Northeastern Japan
 
March 31, 2011
 
The Nikon Group would express our deepest condolences to the victims of the earthquake and extend our profound sympathy and heartfelt concern to those individuals and families suffering from the disaster.
 
The following is an update regarding Nikon Corporation and its group manufacturing facilities.
 

1. Safety of the employees
   As have previously informed, to our deepest regret, death of one employee of Sendai Nikon Corporation has been confirmed and safety of three employees is not yet confirmed in the area of Natori City, Miyagi Prefecture.
    
   
2. Reopen of operation at the manufacturing facilities and outlook on the future production
   One of our own plants and seven of our manufacturing subsidiaries are located in the disastrous region of Miyagi Prefecture, Tochigi Prefecture and Ibaraki Prefecture *. All of these facilities have resumed their operation now with reopen by yesterday, March 30 of Sendai Nikon Corporation and Miyagi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd.
    
   It has been becoming clearer that we will be able to secure parts/components including their replacements through our investigation of the current conditions and possible measures to secure the procurement in our collaboration with our business partners. However, we have a concern that the situation may continue where our production cannot fully satisfy our customers’ requirement due to inability of full swing production worsened by the planned blackouts of electricity. While we will do our utmost effort to overcome such expected difficulties, we will be most grateful if our customers could understand such circumstances.
3. Forecast of effect by the damage to our business performances
   We are continuing our endeavor to evaluate how the immediate damage by the disaster and planned blackouts of electricity will result in our group companies and business performances. We will announce our findings immediately when it is judged that there will be important change in our forecast.
    
   

* Locations of each plant and manufacturing subsidiaries
 
• Mito Plant, Nikon Corporation : Mito, Ibaraki Pref.
• Sendai Nikon Corporation : Natori, Miyagi Pref.
• Miyagi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd. : Zao-machi, Katta-gun, Miyagi Pref.
• Zao factory, Nikon-Trimble Co., Ltd. : Zao-machi, Katta-gun, Miyagi Pref.
• Tochigi Nikon Corporation : Otawara, Tochigi Pref.
• Tochigi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd. : Otawara, Tochigi Pref.
• Kurobane Nikon Co., Ltd. : Otawara, Tochigi Pref.
• Nasu Nikon Co., Ltd. : Nasukarasuyama, Tochigi Pref.
 
Note:
Nikon-Trimble Co., Ltd. is an equity-method company.
Nasu Nikon Co., Ltd. is a subsidiary of Nikon-Essilor Co., Ltd. which is an equity-method company.

Tenba Launches New Skooba Harmony Women's Bag Collection
Tenba launches the latest new bags from Skooba. Skooba Design has added a collection of products designed exclusively for woman to its award-winning line of laptop bags and tech/travel accessories. The bags in the new "Harmony" collection blend the look, fashion and quality of a high-end tote or handbag with the capacity and protection of a laptop bag.
 
Tenba Launches New, Ultra Lightweight Discovery Collection
Discovery is the lightest weight collection of professional-level bags that Tenba has ever created, and is built to our legendary "Crafted Without Compromise" standard. Discovery bags are the perfect carrying solution for photographers who want to walk, bike, hike or climb with their gear - activities which truly require the lightest bags availble.
 

 

 
Get more information about these collections in the Tenba press release. Product images are available here.

46 new lens / camera combinations have been added to the DxO Optics Modules library, providing supports for Canon, Nikkor, Sigma, Tamron, Tokina, Zeiss, and Sony lenses, for numerous Canon, Nikon, Fuji, and Sony cameras.
 
Supported or planned combinations (click on second tab)
 
DxO Optics Pro is available at B&H.

Recently introduced were the Westcott Spiderlite TD6 and the Westcott 7' Parabolic Umbrella.
 
I have a Westcott Spiderlite TD5 (B&H) and like it a lot. The umbrella looks awesome.
 
B&H carries the Westcott Spiderlite TD6 and the Westcott 7' Parabolic Umbrella.

Adorama has some good deals that I want to pass on to you:
 
The Canon Refurbished inventory at Adorama has been modestly increased. Before buying one of these like-new items, be sure to compare the price to both new price and the price at the Canon store to make sure you are getting a good deal.
 
The Tokina 16.5-135mm f/3.5-5.6 DX Lens (Canon) and (Nikon) is on sale for $349 shipped - $100 off regular price.
 
Get a pack of 3 Lexar 16GB, 200x Platinum II High Speed Series, Compact Flash Memory Cards & Memory Card Wallet for only $99.99 shipped.
 
Think Tank Photo Urban Disguise 10, 20 and 30 are on sale for $59, $89 and $99 shipped - $10, $10 and $30 off regular price.
 
The Lowepro Orion AW All Weather Convertible Beltpack / Backpack Camera Bag (Black) is on sale for $69.95 shipped - regularly $139.95.
 
Lots of other good deals are available - use one of the above links, click on the "Specials" link near the top-left of the page and then narrow your selection using the options on the right. Select brand "westcott" for example.

Canon U.S.A. has posted Canon EOS 60D Firmware 1.0.9.
 
Firmware Version 1.0.9 incorporates the following fixes and changes.
 
1. Changes the name of the feature called "Art Filters" to "Creative Filters" (which is used in markets other than Japan) in the Japanese version to make the terms consistent. (This change only applies to the Japanese version and does not apply to other language versions.)
 
2. Fixes a phenomenon where the camera may operate abnormally when it is set to Quick Mode AF during Live View shooting immediately after capturing an image with the C.Fn II-1 Long exposure noise reduction setting set to [2: On] and a shutter speed setting of 5 seconds or more.
 
3. Fixes a phenomenon where the camera may operate abnormally when after Live View shooting, the remote switch on the EOS Utility screen is pressed to immediately start movie-shooting. This phenomenon only occurs when the camera is connected to a compatible personal computer and the Remote Live View function of EOS Utility software is being used.

B&H has the HP / Hewlett-Packard Pavilion dv7-4180us Entertainment 17.3" Notebook Computer (Aluminum Argento Stream Design) for only $749.00 shipped after $50 MIR. This is a great deal - the price for this laptop is $1,099.99 at Amazon.com and Newegg.com.
 
Act fast if you want one - I'm told that supplies are limited and that the price can change. Add a select printer and save another $40.
 
Product Highlights: 2.53GHz Intel Core i5-460M, 4GB (2x2GB) RAM, 640GB 5400rpm Hard Drive, Blu-ray ROM with SuperMulti DVD Burning, ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 1GB GPU, 17.3" LED Backlit Widescreen Display, Integrated Webcam and Microphone, 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit), 6.9 lb

The Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Digital SLR Camera Review has been posted to the site.

From Bibble Labs:
 
Adding Support for Canon's sRAW and mRAW formats, two additional Sony cameras, and Nikon's D1x
 
Austin, Tx, March 29th, 2011: Bibble 5.2.2 is new available for download now, and provides broader RAW file support, improved stability, and resolves minor issues found in previous releases of Bibble 5. Bibble 5.2.2 add support for Canon's sRAW and mRAW formats, Nikon's D1x, and Sony's a290 and a390 cameras. This update is free for all current Bibble 5 customers.
 
Bibble 5.2.2 also improves interaction with plugins that change the size of your photo, like zFrame and zShadow, and seen in the screenshot below. These plugins allow you to add creative frames and drop shadows to your images - directly within Bibble 5. Output images will look exactly like the preview in Bibble, ready to publish and share. You can create Presets with your favorite zFrame and zShadow settings to quickly add your finishing touch to every image in Bibble.
 
Bibble 5.2.2 is our third free update so far in 2011, and shows our continued commitment to constantly improving Bibble 5, adding not only newer cameras like we did in 5.2.1, but also older, popular cameras, creating one workflow tool for all your digital photography needs.
 
Availability, Upgrades, and Pricing
 
Bibble 5.2.2 Pro and Bibble 5.2.2 Lite are available immediately for Windows, Mac, and Linux computers for $199.95 and $99.95, respectively, from http://bibblelabs.com. Bibble Labs customers who purchased Bibble 4 since September, 2006 are eligible for a free upgrade to Bibble 5. Bibble 5.2 is a free upgrade for all current Bibble 5 customers.

Nikon camera plus lens rebates are available through April 30th - the D7000 is included and in stock. B&H has the rebate details.

B&H has a Canon EF 50mm f/1.0 USM Lens in stock. One day I'm going to get one of these rule-the-night exotics for review. :)
 
B&H has a decent Canon used lens inventory right now - including some refurbished items. (thanks Jakub)

B&H has the HP / Hewlett-Packard LaserJet P2055dn 35ppm B/W Laser Printer on sale for only $194.95 shipped after "$195.00 instant savings" (regular web price is more like $250.00). Offer ends 04/02/2011.

Canon Japan has posted a notice indicating that the release of three of the new lenses you and I are anxiously awaiting has been postponed.
 
Here is the Google translation:
 
Apology for postponing EOS series lenses for sale
 
East of the great earthquake recently, everyone was affected, to those families and I would like to sincerely sympathy.
 
Well, EF is also damage plants ranging Utsunomiya our production base of the lens. Therefore, to guide and Orimashita released in March 2011 "EOS series lenses," For, I guide it to postpone the release date now as follows. We are currently promoting recovery measures in manufacturing facilities. For a concrete release date, as it becomes clear again I guide.
 
Release date Summary of Changes
 

Product Name	Expected Release Date (before)	Be released (after)
EF300mm F2.8L IS II USM	March 2011	Undecided
EF400mm F2.8L IS II USM	March 2011	Undecided
Fish EF8-15mm F4L USM	March 2011	Undecided

 
Customers will have a great inconvenience, it will continue to make every effort for the sale, thank you so continue to support the continued patronage.

B&H is now selling Canon Lens Mugs and bracelets! (thanks Jeff)

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., March 24, 2011 - We continue to monitor and analyze the recovery and rebuilding efforts in the areas impacted by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. We are carefully assessing the situation, and its impact on production and operations.
 
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) has announced that it is carefully monitoring and assessing the potential for radiological contamination. It is using several types of radiation detection equipment in air and sea ports, mail facilities, and elsewhere to scan cargo. CPB notes that it uses radiation equipment and operational protocols to resolve any safety risks. More information is available at http://www.usa.gov/Japan2011.shtml.
 
We will post updates regarding safety, recovery and rebuilding efforts, as necessary.
 
We thank everyone for their continued concern and support.
 
- Canon U.S.A. Press Release

Want to make your images huge? Project them with one of the five new portable LCD projectors Canon has announced.

ExpoImaging has introduced the Rogue Grid (press release) - a 3-in-1 stacking honeycomb flash grid.
 
ExpoImaging's Rogue products are available at B&H - the Rogue Grid is available for preorder.

March 23, 2011 - DxO Labs is pleased to announce the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v6.5.6 for Mac and Windows that adds RAW support for Canon 600D/Rebel T3i, Canon 1100D/Rebel T3, and Olympus Pen E-PL1 in both its Standard and Elite editions.
 
Further, 50 new DxO Optics Modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, covering numerous Canon, Nikon and Fuji cameras.
 
To see supported and planned combinations, click on the link below then select the second tab.
 
All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since June 1st, 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.5.6.
 
Supported or planned combinations
 
DxO Optics Pro is available at B&H.

B&H has the new Lexar 128GB Professional SDXC Memory Card in stock.

Apple has released Aperture 3.1.2 Update:
 
This update improves overall stability and performance, and also includes the following specific fixes.
 
iPhoto Compatibility
 
• Resolves an issue that could cause Aperture to quit unexpectedly when importing large iPhoto libraries.
 
• Aperture now correctly handles albums contained in folders when importing iPhoto 9.1.1 libraries.
 
• Improves reliability when importing iPhoto 9 libraries that include slideshows containing text slides.
 
• RAW images imported from iPhoto 9 libraries no longer show the Reprocess brick in Adjustments.
 
Import
 
• Addresses an issue that could cause Aperture to stop responding when attempting to process damaged images.
 
• Olympus E-5 images with a 3:4 aspect ratio now import with the correct rotation.
 
Library
 
• Addresses an issue that could prevent referenced images from being reconnected.
 
• Resolves an issue that could cause Aperture to quit unexpectedly when switching libraries.
 
Adjustments
 
• Resolves an issue that could cause your Mac to become unresponsive when using brushes.
 
• Resolves an issue that could cause Aperture to quit unexpectedly when using Retouch.
 
• Addresses an issue that could cause the white balance value for certain RAW images to be displayed incorrectly.
 
Other
 
• Fixes an issue that could cause Aperture to quit unexpectedly when panning a zoomed image.
 
• Addresses compatibility of exported XMP Sidecar files with third-party applications.
 
• Resolves an issue that could cause Aperture to quit unexpectedly when using Align to Beats in a slideshow.
 
 
For more information, check the release notes. The update is available for download or can be loaded using the software's update function.

Canon has announced that it is extending its offer of a free two-year warranty for the EOS-1D Mark IV to include all cameras that are purchased before 30 June 2012.
 
This two-year warranty is a one-year extension on top of the standard Canon one-year European warranty that’s offered on all products, and it will be operating under identical terms and conditions. This gives photographers a total warranty period of two years from the date of purchase of their new product.
 
Canon is not only providing this extended two-year warranty on new EOS-1D Mark IV purchases, but it is also making it available to all existing owners of EOS-1D Mark IV bodies.
 
The extended warranty is available on EOS-1D Mark IV purchases that are made, or have been made, in specific countries in Europe. The countries where the two-year warranty is available are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
 
To be eligible for the extended warranty customers must provide a valid proof of purchase. For full terms and conditions please click here or download the 'Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Two-Year Warranty: terms & conditions' pdf from the 'Downloads' box on the right hand side of this page. Please note that within the Download pdf terms and conditions are available in all languages relevant to the participating countries, as mentioned above, where the warranty is available.
 
Information about Canon's standard terms and conditions of warranty will also be found in the two-year warranty leaflet that will be available in each EOS-1D Mark IV DSLR box from mid-April 2011.
 
To make the most of the warranty services purchasers of the EOS-1D Mark IV should register their product online - just click here to do so.

Nikon USA has posted ViewNX 2.1.2 (Windows).
 
Nikon Europe has posted ViewNX 2.1.2 (Windows).
 
This post will be updated should a Mac version become available.

2nd Notice on the impact by the Major Earthquake in Northeastern Japan
 
March 22, 2011
 
The Nikon Group would express our deepest condolences to the victims of the earthquake and extend our profound sympathy and heartfelt concern to those individuals and families suffering from the disaster.
 
We have set up the Emergency Headquarters for Disaster Control headed by the President on March 11 immediately after the earthquake, and have been gathering safety information of our employees, examining damage to the manufacturing equipment and continuing every effort to resume operation at the earliest possible. The following is an update regarding the impact of the earthquake on the Nikon Group and outlook on the future production.
 
1. Safety of the employees
 
To our deepest regret, death of one employee of Sendai Nikon Corporation has been confirmed. Safety of three employees is not yet confirmed in the area of Natori City, Miyagi Prefecture.
 
2. Damage to the manufacturing equipment and outlook on the future production
 
One of our own plants and seven of our manufacturing subsidiaries are located in Miyagi Prefecture, Tochigi Prefecture and Ibaraki Prefecture in the disastrous region*. Operation has been suspended at all of them after the earthquake.
 
At Tochigi Nikon Corporation, operation has started from Friday, March 18.
 
At Sendai Nikon Corporation and Miyagi Nikon Precision Co., both of which have been severely damaged, operation is expected to resume by the end of this March. Operation at the remaining facilities will start tomorrow on March 23.
 
Even after operation resumes, we have a concern that the situation may happen where our production cannot fully satisfy our customers’ requirement due to inability of full swing production caused by problems such as the planned blackouts of electricity and procurement of components from our business partners. While we will do our utmost effort to overcome such expected difficulties, we will be most grateful if our customers could understand such circumstances.
 
We assure to extend our best support for restoration of the facilities hit by the disaster to our customers of Precision Equipment and Instruments business, and repair/servicing to our customers of Imaging business suffering from the disaster.
 
3. Forecast of effect by the damage to our business performances
 
We are continuing our endeavor to evaluate how the immediate damage by the disaster and planned blackouts of electricity will result in our group companies and business performances. We will announce our findings immediately when it is judged that there will be important change in our forecast.
 
* Locations of each plant and manufacturing subsidiaries
• Mito Plant, Nikon Corporation : Mito,Ibaraki Pref.
• Sendai Nikon Corporation : Natori, Miyagi Pref.
• Miyagi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd. : Zao-machi, Katta-gun, Miyagi Pref.
• Zao factory, Nikon-Trimble Co., Ltd. : Zao-machi, Katta-gun, Miyagi Pref.
• Tochigi Nikon Corporation : Otawara, Tochigi Pref.
• Tochigi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd. : Otawara, Tochigi Pref.
• Kurobane Nikon Co., Ltd. : Otawara, Tochigi Pref.
• Nasu Nikon Co., Ltd. : Nasukarasuyama, Tochigi Pref.
Note: Nikon-Trimble Co., Ltd. is an equity-method company.
 
Nasu Nikon Co., Ltd. is a subsidiary of Nikon-Essilor Co., Ltd. which is an equity-method company.

This is *probably a typo*, but the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark IV is included on the "products in this tutorial" listed beside the Chris Bray video tutorial at http://www.canon.com.au/worldofeos/learn/get-creative/low-light-photography-1.aspx?cid=emmycanon110309.
 
Here is the screen capture:
 

 
Probably more informational is the video itself:
 

 
(thanks Alex)

Canon U.S.A. has announced its expansion into the production photographic print market with the introduction of the Canon DreamLabo 5000 (press release).
 
Don't look for one of these in my studio anytime soon. Of course, with availability expected to be early 2012, don't look for one of these anywhere other than a trade show for awhile.

Check out the 5000fps capture of a DSLR's aperture and shutter in action:
 

Date: 18 March 2011
General Announcement
Type: Announcement
Subject: OTHERS
 
Description: Notion VTec Berhad - Article in The Edge Financial Daily dated today on page 8 with heading "Japan Earthquake affects Notion VTec's camera business"
 
Announcement Details/Table Section: With regard to the article in The Edge Financial Daily dated today on page 8 with heading "Japan Earthquake affects Notion VTec's camera business," the management would like to provide additional information for clarity on the effects of the earthquake/tsunami in Northern Japan on 11 March 2011:
 
1. Nikon is a major customer in Notion's camera business. Nikon has made an announcement dated 14 March 2011, stating damage to some plant, equipment and buildings in 4 factories situated in the affected area. They have suspended operations there and will continue to evaluate details of the damage. Nikon has also formed Business Continuity Teams to normalize business as soon as possible. Details of the said announcement can be found at link: http://www.nikon.com/about/news/2011/0314_01.htm
 
2. Nikon's SLR camera and Interchangeable Lens main production and assembly operations are based in Nikon Thailand plant in Ayuthaya but supply of components are from both in-house as well as external approved vendors. Notion Thailand, Ayuthaya and Notion Venture Sdn Bhd, Klang ("Notion" or "Notion, Klang") are both supplying cam barrels and other camera parts to Nikon Thailand.
 
3. Amongst Nikon's in-house supply vendor will be Sendai Nikon Corporation, Natori, Miyagi and this plant is affected by the event and it manufactures the high end SLR camera body as well as body and lens mount. The body and lens mount are metallic mating surfaces for the lens to be attached to the camera body and are high volume parts typically in the hundreds of thousand per month.
 
4. As a contingency plan, Notion, Klang will be supplied with raw materials from Nikon for the production of the body mount with immediate effect. Notion is preparing jigs & fixtures and utilizing existing CNC machines to produce these precision components. Hard chrome surface treatment will be out sourced to a surface treatment company. The finished body mount components will be trucked to the customer's plant in Thailand for assembly. We expect this new business to contribute between RM36 million to RM60 million in sales per year.
 
5. There will be no additional capital expenditure for this new production.
 
6. The understanding is that this relocation will be long term.
 
7. Cam barrel in FY2010 recorded RM98 million in sales representing about 44% of the Notion VTec Group's revenue of RM223 million and Nikon was the major contributor besides Sony and Canon as well.
 
8. The management's internal revenue target for FY2011 is RM280 million with camera sales forming 50% or about RM140 million in sales. This has not factored in the new sub assembly of lens business in Notion Thailand which starts from the month of April 2011 and will contribute significantly to Notion's top and bottom line. The new body mount business is also not factored in.
 
9. Management thinks that due to the extreme nature of the crisis in Japan, its possible prolonged recovery process and the uncertainty of the total supply chain, it is likely that Notion's cam barrel sales will be affected by the likely slow down in SLR camera/Interchangeable lens.
 
10. There is no immediate cancellation of orders in the camera business thus far from any of our existing customers in the camera space.
 
11. Management thinks that on an overall basis, the contribution from the new business both in the body mount and sub-assembly of lens will more than compensate for the expected reduction in orders for cam barrels due to the disruption and possible slow down.
 
Management of the Notion VTec Group also wishes to express our sympathies and heartfelt concern to the victims and their families and pray that the suffering will be short lived.
 
Note: The management targets mentioned above are strictly management's expectations for growth based on our internal budgeting targets. The quoted statements are not intended to refer to any financial estimate, forecast or projection of our Group, and have not been reviewed by the external auditors.
 
 
Notion VTec is located in Malaysia. Nikon has made an investment in this company.

Tamron Co., Ltd.
Announcement of March 16, 2011
 
Influence on Operations by 3.11 Earthquake That Hit Pacific Coastal Regions of Northeastern Japan
 
We wish to extend our deepest condolences and prayers to those who suffered from loss of life and casualties among families and relatives by the Tohoku/Off-Pacific Coast Earthquake Disaster that hit the area on March 11, 2011.
 
In this regard, may we inform you of the current status of the company operations as follows as an initial briefing:
 
1. Scope of Damage and/or Destruction
 
(1) Bodily damage to employees
It has been confirmed that no employee sustained any physical damage fortunately.
 
(2) Status of production facilities
Likewise, no notable damage has been identified in terms of our three production facilities in Aomori Prefecture, including Hirosaki Plant [Hirosaki city], Namioka Plant [Namioka town] and Ohwani [Ohwani town, Minami-Tsugaru county].
 
Nevertheless, it is anticipated that certain disruption shall become unavoidable in terms of production activities, logistics flow and customer service, including our plant in China [Tamron Optical (Foshan) Co., Ltd.] as a result of damaged transportation network and systems.
 
(3) Distribution of finished goods
It is also anticipated that certain delay would be caused in delivery of finished goods to customers because of the disrupted production coupled with the slowdown in logistics.
 
Evidently, it is premature to assess the extent and the scope of the negative impact, please be assured that the entire group companies of Tamron are determined to work collectively and intensively to minimize the damage to our business operations.
 
2. Potential Influence on Company Performance
 
While the situation is rather unsettled to make an intelligent assessment of potential influence on our company performance associated with the grossly huge disaster, we will be prepared to make a timely announcement

From Samyang:
 
17th March, 2011
 
Temporary shortage of Samyang lenses between April and May
 
Delta Company, the sole representative and distributor of Samyang products for Europe announces there may be some temporary shortage of Samyang lenses between April and May. This is due to suspension in deliveries of optical lenses produced in Japan by factories located on the area destroyed by the Tsunami wave which hit Japanese shores on 11th of March 2011. We will be informing our customers about any changes concerning availability of our products.

Safe to say is that you are visiting this site because you have an interest in photography - and most likely a strong interest in Canon or Nikon cameras and lenses. Both of these brands call Japan home, and we all know the tragic devastation being experienced by this country.
 
Canon and Nikon have both issued general statements indicating that they are experiencing production disruption. Canon has had damage to their Utsunomiya factory - We know that Canon's lenses are made in this plant (the U in the Canon date code represents Utsunomiya, Japan). We also know that Nikon's pro DSLR plant is located in the hard-hit city of Sendai, Japan.
 
Even if building repairs are able to be made quickly, electricity supply remains in question (rolling blackouts are currently occurring). Transportation is an issue. Raw material and parts supplies may or may not be impacted.
 
Neither Nikon or Canon (I've asked) are making predictions on forthcoming supply constraints, and they probably do not yet have a full understanding of what the future holds.
 
I fully expect both of these companies to return to 100% production at some time in the future - either at the current locations or alternative locations. But the bottom line is that, due to the disruption caused by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, I'm concerned about the short-term availability of some Canon and Nikon DSLRs and lenses.
 
Without knowing Canon and Nikon's inventory levels throughout the supply chain, my advice is: If you know you want or are going to need a camera or lens in the next months (3, 6, 9?), I suggest that you buy it now to insure you have it when you need or want it.
 
Of course, the concern over camera and lens supply pales in comparison with the concern for the people of Japan. I think I speak for all of us when I say "Japan, stay strong - our prayers are with you."

Many new flare test results have been added to the site's Lens Flare Comparison Tool. Nearly all Nikon lenses are now represented and a handful of Sigma and Tamron lenses were also added. The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens represents the lone Canon addition with the balance of the current Canon lenses being already included.

128GB and 64GB SDXC Cards Enable Capture of High-Resolution Images and HD Video on Compatible Devices
 
Fremont, CA, March 15, 2011 – Lexar Media, a leading global provider of memory products for digital media, today announced it is now shipping the Lexar® Professional Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) 133x memory card in capacities of 128GB, an industry first, and 64GB. The Lexar Professional SDXC cards are available in B&H Photo and Video [coming soon], and Adorama Camera [preorders taken] stores across the U.S, as well as on www.lexar.com.
 
These large capacities make Lexar Professional 133x SDXC cards an excellent choice for shooting continuous, rapid-fire images and extended lengths of 1080p high-definition (HD) video on a single, high-performance solution. Also, the Professional SDXC cards offer a Class 10 speed rating with a minimum guaranteed speed of 133x, or 20MB per second, and accelerate professional workflow by quickly transferring high-resolution images and HD video from the memory card to the computer when paired with an SDXC-enabled card reader, such as the Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader.
 
“We saw a demand for a professional card that would allow photographers to not only capture more high-resolution images and HD video, but to also take advantage of the full capabilities of their high-performance digital SLRs and camcorders,” said Pachi Chen-Wong, senior product marketing manager, Lexar Media. “With the new Lexar Professional SDXC cards, we developed a product that will enhance the professional photography workflow. With capacities of 64GB and 128GB, photographers can capture, store and transfer more images and HD video in one place than ever before.”
 
The Lexar Professional 133x SDXC memory cards include the latest version of award-winning Image Rescue® software to help recover lost or deleted photo and video files. All Lexar product designs are tested in the Lexar Quality Labs, a group of facilities where all Lexar product designs undergo extensive testing to ensure performance, quality, compatibility, and reliability with more than 800 intended digital devices.
 
The Lexar Professional SDXC cards include a limited lifetime warranty and free, dedicated professional technical support. The 64GB and 128GB Lexar Professional SDXC memory cards are available now at B&H Photo and Video [coming soon], Adorama Camera [preorders taken] and on Lexar.com, with MSRPs of $199.99 and $329.99 respectively.

B&H has the PNY Technologies 16GB Class 10 SDHC Card (20MB/S) for only $27.99 shipped.
 
Prefer Transcend brand? They also have a lifetime warranty and cost only $1 more.

Canon currently has a strong selection of refurbished Canon Cameras and lenses in stock.
 
Some items are significantly less than at Adorama while some are more expensive.

Canon U.S.A. is proud to announce the continuation of its exclusive on-site educational experience, Canon Live Learning, which has been designed to help advanced amateur imaging enthusiasts and budding professionals improve their skills with the support of professional photographers and industry experts. Back this year by popular demand are the EOS Immersion Seminars and Workshops and the EOS Destination Workshops, each with updated and improved content. Appearing for the first time will be a new workshop series called “Deconstructing the Story: Light, Sound, Motion & EOS HD,” aimed at professional videographers and transitioning still photographers, and led by instructors from the industry-leading stillmotion™ team.
 
EOS Immersion Seminars and Workshops
 
Canon EOS Immersion Saturday Seminars are full-day events consisting of individual presentations on Creative Essentials, Speedlite Creativity & Techniques, HD Video Basics, andTravel & Landscape Photography. Canon Live Learning instructors Jeff Greene and Sharon Levy Freed deliver inspiring multimedia presentations and perform live demos on stage for up to 200 attendees.
 
Offered separately, EOS Immersion Sunday Workshops provide a full-day hands-on educational experience for up to 16 attendees. From the top-of-the-line EOS-1D Mark IV to the advanced EOS 5D Mark II and EOS 7D, students can use and learn with the camera body that best fits their needs while also experiencing Canon’s award-winning EF and EF-S lens lineup and other EOS System accessories. This year, students can choose workshops on EOS HD Video Techniques or Creative Lighting with Canon Speedlites. Ten EOS Immersion weekends are scheduled to date in 2011.Tickets for the Saturday seminar and each Sunday workshop are sold separately.
 
The next set of EOS Immersion Seminars and Workshops is scheduled on March 26-27, 2011 in Dallas. It will be followed by stops in other major cities such as Columbus, St. Louis, Nashville, Los Angeles, Denver, San Francisco, New York City and Washington, DC.
 
EOS Destination Workshops
 
Building off the success of last year’s programs, the EOS Destination Workshops are back helping photographers not only to develop their portfolios but also to enhance their photographic skill sets through hands-on shooting sessions with a wide range of Canon photo equipment. These two-day workshops will take place in scenic locations such as Death Valley National Park, Acadia National Park, and the New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, among others. EOS Destination Workshops allow participants the chance of a lifetime to receive personal instruction from Canon Explorers of Light photographers including Jennifer Wu, Tyler Stableford and Ken Sklute, as well as other industry leading professionals, while enjoying scenic views and capturing outstanding images. Reservations for EOS Destination Workshops can be booked in advance on Canon’s web site: www.usa.canon.com/canonlivelearning.
 
The next EOS Destination Workshop is scheduled for April 9-10, 2011 in Utah’s Arches National Park with Canon Explorer of Light Tyler Stableford as the instructor, followed by workshops in Nevada, Arizona, New Jersey, Maine, and Colorado.
 
Deconstructing the Story: Light, Sound, Motion & EOS HD
 
The introduction of Full HD video into Canon EOS DSLR cameras has completely changed the art of videography. Working with stillmotion, a team of leading innovators in the use of EOS HD video products, this three day workshop series is designed to help educate aspiring videographers on the creative and technical essentials of storytelling with a focus on camera handling, audio, lighting, movement, composition, storyboarding and editing.
 
The first session of ‘Deconstructing the Story’ is slated for May 24-26, 2011 in Orlando, Florida followed by workshops in Cincinnati, New York City, Austin, and Seattle.
 
For more information and a complete listing of the 2011 Canon Live Learning workshops and seminars, please visit www.usa.canon.com/canonlivelearning.

Apple has released Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 3.6.
 
About Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 3.6
 
This update adds RAW image compatibility for the following cameras to Aperture 3 and iPhoto '11:
Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D / Kiss X50
Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D / Kiss X5
Olympus E-5
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100
Pentax K-r
Pentax K-5
 
It also addresses processing issues for the following cameras:
Nikon D7000
Nikon COOLPIX P7000
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2
 
For more information on supported RAW formats, see http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3825.

The current Canon DSLR and Lens instant rebates expire on Saturday (Mar 19th). If you are interested in one of the included cameras and lenses, be sure to take advantage of these deals.
 

Model	Rebate Amount
Canon EOS 7D	$200.00
Canon EOS 60D	$100.00
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens	$120.00/$240.00
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens	$100.00/$200.00
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens	$200.00/$400.00
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM Lens	$100.00/$100.00
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens	$80.00/$160.00

 
These lens rebate amounts are doubled with the purchase of one of the following Canon EOS DSLR Cameras:
 
Canon EOS 1D Mark IV
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Canon EOS 7D
Canon EOS 60D
 
Canon DSLR plus printer rebates are currently in effect. Buy a Canon EOS 5D Mark II, 7D, 60D, T2i or T1i and receive a $500 Mail-in-Rebate when purchased together with Canon PIXMA Pro9500 Mk II printer or $400 Mail-in-Rebate when purchased together with Canon PIXMA Pro9000 Mk II printer. These printers are definitely worth the $49 net cost after rebate - the ink alone is worth a lot more than that. The printer rebate offer ends 03/31/2011.
 
The other deal you should be aware of is the $100 off Adobe Lightroom when purchased with a DSLR. See B&H's site for more details.

Canon launches recovery measures following major earthquake in Japan
 
TOKYO, March 14, 2011—In response to the damage sustained by the Canon Group due to the major earthquake that struck Japan on March 11, Canon Inc. has established an Earthquake Disaster Recovery Task Force (Task Force Chief: Chairman & CEO Fujio Mitarai; Task Force Assistant Chief: President & COO Tsuneji Uchida; Executive Director: Executive Vice President and CFO Toshizo Tanaka) and begun taking related measures.
 
The Task Force today issued the following instructions toward the promotion of swift response measures.
 
1. The prompt review and drafting of comprehensive recovery plans, spanning development, production and sales operations, for relevant operating sites, primarily by persons in charge of each business (chief executives/group executives). The Company’s headquarter divisions will provide full support for this effort.
 
2. With regard to Canon Inc. operation sites and Canon Group companies for which production operations may be suspended for one month or more, the Company will also consider making use of alternate sites that were not damaged by the earthquake as a means of continuing production.
 
Below is an overview of the latest impact of the earthquake on Canon operations in Japan as of 15:00 JST on Monday, March 14, 2011.
 
While the level of damage differs at each Canon Inc. operation site and Canon Group company located in northern Honshu (the area hardest hit by the earthquake), beginning today, the Company is earnestly taking action to realize the earliest possible start of operations. At this time, however, concrete schedules for when production may resume have yet to be determined.
 
As for Canon plants and Group companies in the western half of Honshu, while operations resumed as usual today (Monday, March 14), the Company is now working to ascertain whether or not there will be any impact on production at each location.
 
With regard to the Japanese government’s requests for cooperation in conserving electricity, in addition to the energy-saving measures Canon promotes as a matter of course, the Company has also called on its employees to make every effort to conserve electricity in their homes.

March 14, 2011
 
Notice of temporal office close for two consecutive days: March 14 & 15
 
Dear Customers & Partners,
 
Please be advised that our offices will be temporarily closed for two days, including today (14th ) and tomorrow (15th) due to the situation caused by the earthquake and the tsunami last week, and will let you know by the close of business day tomorrow regarding the operations on the following days.
 
As you are well aware, Japan was hit by a major earthquake and a subsequent tsunami last Friday. Although a scope of destruction was relatively mild in Tokyo metroplex area (albeit some losses in life and casualties), that is not the case in northern territories alongside the Pacific coastal line as has been televised and webcasted over the past weekend. The whole magnitude of the devastation is still yet to be revealed indeed.
 
Unfortunately, significant damage has been done to the infrastructure, including electric power, transportation, communications and fuel services. Some airports were dysfunctional and road network are destructed here and there. In addition, a scheduled black-out has been officially implemented to secure continued supply of electricity in the entire regions from Tokyo metroplex (where our headquarters are located) to entire northern areas of mainland Japan. As you can imagine, this will inevitably disrupt our entire computer system network ranging from BOM management to transfer of goods as well as mail servers. Railways are only partially operated by the shortage of electricity, which inhibits many of our employees coming to the offices.
 
We would very much appreciate your understanding of the situation we are up against, and will definitely keep you abreast regarding the operations for rest of the week.
 
Last but not least, we sincerely appreciate your kind support and encouragement received right after the news hit the world. We will overcome this difficult time working together.
 
Cordially
 
Morio Ono
President & CEO
 
 
March 14, 2011
 
Notice - Anticipated Effects of Tokyo Electric Power Rolling Blackout Plan to Tamron Corporate Website
 
The Tokyo Electric Power Company has announced the implementation of a rolling blackout power rationing plan in response to the aftereffects of the Tohoku Pacific Earthquake. As a result, disruption of general Internet connectivity is anticipated. Difficulty in connecting to the Tamron corporate website is thus also anticipated.
 
Tamron will, to the best extent possible, maintain the provision of information and services on its website; however, conditions may cause impaired connectivity or a delay in responses. Tamron is grateful for your understanding and patience in light of these extraordinary circumstances.

Notice on the damage hit by Major Earthquake in Northern Japan (Japan's Tohoku region)
 
March 14, 2011
 
The Nikon Group would like to express its profound sympathy and condolences to the victims of earthquake in Major Earthquake in Northern Japan (Japan's Tohoku region) on March 11. The effects to our group companies are as follows.
 
1. Measures to cope with the situations
 
We have set up the Emergency Headquarters for Disaster Control headed by the President on March 11 immediately after the earthquake, and are taking the necessary steps. We are currently endeavoring to normalize our business as early as possible through our BCM (Business Continuity Management) teams established in each in-house company.
 
2. Damage to our group companies
 
2-1. Damage to equipment and buildings
 
Our group companies, including Sendai Nikon Corporation, Natori, Miyagi Pref., Miyagi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd., Zao-machi, Katta-gun, Miyagi Pref., Tochigi Nikon Corporation, Otawara, Tochigi Pref., Tochigi Nikon Precision Co., Ltd., Otawara, Tochigi Pref., and other subsidiaries as well as our Plants suffered damage to some part of the equipment and buildings. We are suspending operations there and continuing to evaluate further details of the damage. We are unable to announce how soon the operation will resume due to the regional interruption of life-lines although endeavor for restoration are under the way by some of our maintenance personnel.
 
For the list of our group companies
For the list of our plants
 
2-2. Damage to personnel
 
Injury is reported to some of our group employees. We are currently continuing to gather safety information of our personnel and its family members.
 
3. Forecast of effect by the damage to our business performances
 
We are concentrated in evaluating how the immediate damage by the disaster and controlled interruption of electricity started from March 14 will result in our group companies and business performances. We will advise our findings immediately when it is revealed that the damage would further expand.

March 13, 2011
Canon Inc.
 
Damage Report for Canon Inc. Operations and Canon Companies following Major Earthquake in Japan
 
The following is a summary overview of damage reported at Canon Inc. operating sites and Canon Group companies in Japan as of 15:00 JST on Sunday, March 13, 2011.
 
The Company continues working to ascertain damages and determine when operations can resume.
 
With regard to Canon offices, plants and Canon Group companies in Japan, there have been reports from several sites of power outages, damage to buildings and stoppages in production equipment.
 
Below is an overview highlighting damage, production outlooks, etc., for sites in northern Honshu (the area hardest hit by the earthquake).
 
The earthquake had the greatest impact on the following three Canon Inc. operation sites and five Canon Group companies
 
Damage was significant at Canon Inc.’s Utsunomiya Office and Fukushima Canon Inc.
 

Canon Inc. Operation Site	Location	Injuries, etc.	Operations on March 14	Operations from March 15 onward
Utsunomiya Office · Utsunomiya Plant · Utsunomiya Optical Products Plant · Optics R&D Center	Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture	Injuries: 15	Suspended	TBD However, time will likely be needed before operations resume
Toride Plant	Toride, Ibaraki Prefecture	None	Suspended	TBD
Ami Plant	Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture	None	Suspended	TBD
Canon Inc. Operation Site	Location	Injuries, etc.	Operations on March 14	Operations from March 15 onward
Canon Precision Inc.	Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture	None	Suspended	TBD
Canon Optron, Inc.	Yuki, Ibaraki Prefecture	None	Suspended	TBD
Canon Chemicals Inc. · Iwama Plant	Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture Iwama Plant: Kasama, Ibaraki Prefecture	None	Suspended Tsukuba HQ will operate as usual	TBD
Fukushima Canon Inc.	Fukushima, Fukushima Prefecture	None	Suspended	However, time will likely be needed before operations resume
Canon Mold Co., Ltd.	Kasama, Ibaraki Prefecture	None	Suspended	TBD

 
While the earthquake had a slight impact on Canon offices, plants and Group companies in the western half of Honshu, there have been no injuries and no significant damage to buildings or equipment. Accordingly, operations are scheduled to resume as usual beginning Monday, March 14. Additionally, the Company is now working to determine potential impacts in the future.
 
In the event that production operations may be suspended for one month or more, the Company will consider making use of alternate sites that were not damaged by the earthquake as a means of continuing production.
 
(Thanks Mike, Martin and David)

Canon Japan has issued a press release regarding earthquake damage. Unfortunately, I do not read Japanese and am at this point relying on Google's very rough translation of this page (as shared below). If you understand Japanese, I welcome you to email me a better translation for sharing here.
 
March 13, 2011
Canon Inc.
 
About us and our group's damage by large earthquakes East
 
Our Group's major damage due to our massive earthquake and the East, March 13, 2011 (Sun) 3:00 pm today is as follows.
 
We conducted a survey of verification and restoration potential for damage to continually.
 
Canon Group companies establishments are offices in several power outages, damaged buildings, and we have reported stopping the production facilities.
 
Kantou north ¦ (damaged areas) in major damage / production plans, etc.
 
that is greatly affected by the earthquake, three sites in northern Kantou / 5 group
 
- Utsunomiya Plant for Fukushima Canon has a large degree of damage
 

Office	Location	Human suffering	Operations on March 14	After the scheduled March 15
Institute of Optics optical instruments business establishments Utsunomiya Utsunomiya Plant	Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture	No	Holiday	But yet, expected to take days to recover
Toride Plant	Toride, Ibaraki	No	Holiday	Undecided
Ami Plant	Inashiki District, Ibaraki	No	Holiday	Undecided
Group	Location	Human suffering	Operations on March 14	After the scheduled March 15
Canon Precision	Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture	No	Holiday	Undecided
Canon Optron	Yuki City, Ibaraki Prefecture	No	Holiday	Undecided
Iwama Canon Chemicals Plant	Iwama, Ibaraki Prefecture Tsukuba Plant Kasama	No	Holiday	Undecided
Fukushima Canon	Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture	No	Holiday	But yet, expected to take days to recover
Kiyanonmorudo	Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture	No	Holiday	Undecided

 
Group companies in the west office Kantou ¦ The impact of the earthquake, but some are in human suffering, but major damage to buildings and equipment, March 14 (Monday) will operate as usual from It is. The effect that will occur at the moment is under investigation.
 
If the shutdown continues as one ¦ or more months, as the alternative site locations are not affected, we are also planning to continue production.

Canon USA has announced a $50 Instant rebate on the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and SD4500 IS. The rebates are available from March 13 through March 26, 2011.
 
B&H has the instant rebates in place.

Sample pictures have been added to the Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM Lens Review.

AmateurPhotography.co.uk is reporting that Nikon's Sendai staff are safe and that the manufacturing infrastructure has not be significantly impacted. Good news from an otherwise tragic event.

Hit your favorite world news site for more information on this tragic event. Of photography-specific importance is that Nikon has an SLR plant in Sendai.
 
Rob Galbraith has a Nikon Sendai tour page on his site.

From Think Tank Photo:
 
We just released solutions for carrying those smaller items that tend to rattle around and get lost in your bags and pockets. These include Credential Holder, an AA Battery Holder, a Passport Holder, and Large and Small Travel Pouches.
 
Credential Holder
Our new Credential Holder features a clear window that always keeps credentials of various sizes in view, an adjustable neck strap, a zippered business card pocket on the front flap, a roomy interior pocket that fits a smart phone, and a back side that has two pen pockets and a pocket that fits a reporter's pad or small note pad. Exterior dimensions: 5.7" W x 7" H x 0.3" D (14.5 x 17.8 x 0.8cm). Weight: 0.1lbs (0.05kg).
 
AA Battery Holder
Small AA batteries are one of those accessories that tend to fall to the bottom of whatever bag you're using. With the new AA Battery Holder, you can store eight AA batteries in a soft, compact case that folds in half and is easy to find. Exterior Dimensions: 3" W x 3" H x 0.5" D (7.6 x 7.6 x 1.3cm). Weight: 0.05lbs (0.02kg).
 
Passport Holder
If you travel a lot, especially in humid or inclement weather, you know how beaten up your passport gets. With our new Passport Holder you can carry one passport, airline ticket, credit cards and other identification in a sleek leather case. It features a front pocket for airline ticket stubs and three small pockets for additional identification, coffee gift cards, frequent flyer membership cards, and the like. External dimensions: 3.8" W x 5.5" H x 0.5" D (9.7 x 14 x 1.3cm). Weight: 0.1lbs (0.05kg).
 
Travel Pouch-Large
When forced to mix photo gear and clothing in a roller or backpack, your clothing often gets wedged into a corner. The new Travel Pouch-Large is designed to hold your clothing and other items you want to protect in a lightweight and soft pouch. It folds easily when empty and the mesh front keeps the enclosed items visible. It features a webbing carrying handle. External dimensions: 11.5" W x 15.5" H x 3" D (29.2 x 39.4 x 7.6cm). Weight: 0.3lbs (0.1kg).
 
Travel Pouch-Small
Here's a smaller pouch for organizing your non-photo gear, such as toiletries and socks. The Travel Pouch-Small is lightweight and soft, and folds easily when empty. The mesh front keeps enclosed items visible. It features a webbing carrying handle. External dimensions: 6.7" W x 10" H x 2.5" D (17 x 25.4 x 6.4cm). Weight: 0.2lbs (0.1kg).
 
Think Tank Photo is also having a 20% off sale on the Speed Freak, Speed Demon and the Speed Racer.

Adobe Labs has made Lightroom 3.4 and Camera Raw 6.4 available as release candidates.
 
Included in these version is support for the Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D DSLR and Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D DSLR along with additional Lens Profiles and bug fixes.
 
For more details, visit Lightroom Journal.

Check out my friend Roger's new promo video - captured with four Canon EOS 5D Mark II DSLRs and a Canon EOS 7D DSLR.
 
Full version (5:47):
 

 
Short version (1:56):
 

 
Lenses used include:
Canon EF 70-200mm L IS II USM Lens (version not specified)
Canon EF 135mm f/2 L USM Lens
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 L II USM Lens (version not specified)
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens (version not specified)
Canon EF 14mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens
 
Also used were a Steadicam Pilot (B&H) and a Cinevate Atlas 30 Slider (B&H).

B&H has the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G Wide-Angle Lens in stock. Order fast if you want one.

Vitec, the international provider of products and services for the broadcast, photographic, and MAG (military, aerospace and government) markets, announces that it has acquired the entire share capital of Henry Holdings Limited ("HHL"), for a cash consideration of up to £9.75 million (the "Acquisition"). HHL is the owner of Lastolite Limited in the UK ("Lastolite").
 
Based in Coalville, Leicestershire, Lastolite employs approximately 80 people and is a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of lighting control accessories and backgrounds for the photo, video and cinema industry. Established in 1986, Lastolite produces highly innovative products for the keen amateur and professional photographer. It is also the owner of the Colorama brand of paper backgrounds.
 
The Acquisition will complement Vitec's existing range of Manfrotto lighting supports and LED lights with lighting control accessories, thereby strengthening the Company's position in this part of the accessories market.
 
Lastolite will operate as a standalone business within Vitec's Imaging and Staging Division. Lastolite's existing senior management, including the Managing Director, Sean Henry, will be retained by the business reporting to the Divisional Chief Executive, Francesco Bernardi.
 
For the financial year ended 31 December 2010, Lastolite generated audited sales of £8.0 million (of which £1.5 million were to Vitec Group entities) and adjusted profit before tax of £1.4 million. As at 31 December 2010, Lastolite had gross assets of £3.5 million.
 
Under the terms of the Acquisition, an initial consideration of £8.75 million was paid on completion and is subject to post-completion adjustments for changes in net assets. Up to a further £1.0 million is payable in 2012 based on operating profit for the year ending 31 December 2011. At completion, Lastolite had net cash balances (net of liabilities assumed by Vitec) of £0.3m. Consideration has been paid in cash, financed out of Vitec's existing revolving credit facilities. The Board expects the Acquisition to be earnings enhancing (on an adjusted basis) in the year ending 31 December 2011 (see note 1).
 
Stephen Bird, Vitec's Group Chief Executive, commented on the acquisition:
 
"We are delighted to announce the acquisition of Lastolite, which is in line with our strategy of broadening our lighting offering within the photographic market. The Lastolite business and its management are well known to us and we look forward to the Lastolite and Manfrotto teams working together, sharing distribution and sales opportunities."

An image quality comparison with many other Canon EOS DSLRs has been added to the Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Digital SLR Camera Review page.
 
This is the standard color block and fabric examples I've been using in the Canon EOS DSLR camera reviews. I don't see any surprises though my T3i is delivering slightly brighter images than my T2i.

Focus and zoom ring rotation values have been added to the Lens Specifications and Measurements Tool. Videographers especially have been asking for the focus ring rotation values. Many of the lenses included in this tool have these specs now and the rest of the current lenses will get them in the future.

The Canon ZoomBrowser EX v6.7.2 Updater is now available for download. Select your OS from the EOS 60D Drivers and Software page. The option to download Canon ZoomBrowser EX v6.7.2 Updater will then appear.

In a press release issued today, the final version of the Samyang 35mm f/1.4 AS UMC Lens has been announced.

B&H has updated the approximate arrival dates of the Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM Fisheye Lens and the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens to May.
 
The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens remains listed as "New item - No arrival date known".

Manfrotto has announced the Lino Apparel and Bag Collection. After shooting in 18° temperatures this morning, those gloves look especially nice.
 
The Manfrotto Stile Bag Collection has also been formally announced.

The Canon Refurbished inventory at Adorama has just been updated.
 
Expect like new gear at reduced prices - with some gear prices reduced more than others. Both Extender IIs are in stock.
 
Adorama also has the Canon EOS Rebel T3i in stock (B&H has sold out).

Sample pictures have been added to the Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM Lens review.

March 2, 2011 - DxO Labs is pleased to announce the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v6.5.5 for Mac and Windows, adding RAW support for the Sony SLT A33 and for the Nikon Coolpix P7000 in both its Standard and Elite editions.
 
Further, 51 new DxO Optics Modules have been added to the 114 DxO Modules made available to DxO Optics Pro users since Feb 10th, covering numerous Fuji, Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras, and bringing the total number of available DxO Optics Modules to over 3,000.
 
To see supported and planned combinations, click on the link below then select the second tab.
 
Supported or planned combinations
 
DxO Optics Pro is available at B&H.

Canon USA has announced a PowerShot Instant rebate program.
 
Save up to $70 on six models. The rebates are available from February 27, 2011 through March 12, 2011.
 
B&H has the instant rebates in place. Note that the Canon SD1300 IS is again only $109.99 shipped after the $70 rebate. Might be a good option for the young kids.

Lensbaby has introduced the Sweet 35 Optic.
 
"The Sweet 35 Optic, compatible with the Composer, Muse, Control Freak and Scout lens bodies, produces a sweet spot of focus surrounded by a smooth, gradual blur. The Sweet 35 Optic provides photographers with even more creative freedom to capture their vision in camera by dialing in the sweet spot quickly and seamlessly, in the moment. Its wide 35mm focal length is perfect for landscape, event and environmental portrait photography."
 
Being able to adjust the built-in aperture by turning the ring on the Sweet 35 Optic is a very nice feature - advancing the Lensbaby line.

For the month of March, get a free 8x10 or $50 off any size canvas at Canvas People - just pay shipping.