Source Confirms Canon Rebates Will Not Be Extended
A large retailer informed us yesterday that the current Canon rebates will not be extended – they will end on Feb 2nd. While we have no other information available to substantiate this, the source is usually reliable.
If there is a lens you are interested in that has a rebate currently available, now is the time to make that purchase. Here is the list of currently available Canon rebates.
January 31, 2013 - Nikon today released its second movie, "The DAY", telling the story of the Nikon brand (http://nikonimaging.tumblr.com). This is the second series following "Tears," released on September last year, which captured the human's ultimate emotion, "Tears."
"The DAY" will be presented at the Nikon booth at the CP+ 2013 Camera & Photo Imaging Show (to be held January 31–February 3 at the Pacifico Yokohama Japan, and sponsored by the Camera & Imaging Products Association).
"The DAY" is based on the concept of capture the light of imagination. This is a story of "a day" full of discoveries and the day shows the many special moments that touch people's hearts.
It expresses the fun of manipulating light with Nikon digital cameras and NIKKOR lenses, which have always led the times. It incorporates various scenes, such as a grand landscape created by the morning sun, a vibrant flower found while out on a walk, the natural smile of a child, wonderful photographs that can be captured by simply changing composition and angle, and dreamlike expressions that can be created by utilizing diffused reflections of light and back light.
Regardless of the age, Nikon is constantly striving to use its optical technologies to expand shooting possibilities to enable capture of scenes and subjects that were previously impossible. This year, Nikon celebrates the 80th anniversary of its NIKKOR lenses, which represent the culmination of these optical technologies. The optical technologies Nikon has developed and cultivated over its long history have always formed the foundation for NIKKOR lenses. With each age, however, NIKKOR lenses are developed to maximize the innovative features and characteristics of the latest cameras, always enabling capture of scenes and subjects that could never be captured before and supporting capture of the special moments.
New and extremely useful accessories for Metz flash units are now available in stores. Amateur and professional photographers alike benefit from the extensive range of additional products offered by Metz for flash units. New products include the mecabounce diffuser attachments MBM-01, MBM-02, MBC-10 and MBC-11 for the corresponding compact flash units from Metz and Canon. The mecabounce diffuser attachment is ideal for photographers who set great store by soft and natural light, particularly for portraits.
mecabounce diffuser attachments
mecabounce diffuser attachments are ideal for challenging portrait photog-raphy. The white mecabounce diffuser attachments produce a particularly soft and natural light, which is also suitable for shots with wide-angle illumi-nation. They are easy and practical to attach to the corresponding flash re-flector head. The range comprises the mecabounce diffusor MBM-01 (for the Metz flash units 58 AF-2, -1, 50 AF-1 and 48 AF-1), the MBM-02 (for the Metz flash units 52 AF-1 and 44 AF-1), the MBC-10 (for the Canon flash units 580 EX II and 580 EX) and the MBC-11 (for the Canon flash units 430 EX II and 430 EX). As a special feature on mecabounce diffuser attachments MBM-01 and MBM-02 for Metz flash units, the integrated wide-angle diffuser can be pushed backwards using two pins mounted inside the diffuser attachments. As a result, the zoom position produces an optimum illumination for a focal length of 16mm.
Metz mecablitz – technology “made in Germany”
Metz flash units represent high performance technology and reliable quality. We have been manufacturing in Germany for over 60 years. As such we hold a unique position – Metz is the only manufacturer of camera flash devices to develop and manufacture products in Europe.
mecabounce diffuser MBM-01: For Metz flash units 58 AF-2, -1, 50 AF-1 and 48 AF-1 mecabounce diffuser MBM-02: For Metz flash units 52 AF-1 and 44 AF-1 mecabounce diffuser MBC-10: For Canon flash units 580 EX II and 580 EX mecabounce diffuser MBC-11: For Canon flash units 430 EX II and 430 EX
Canon EOS 1D X DSLR Camera - $5,907.82 (Compare at $6,799.00)
eBay (via BigValueInc) has the Canon EOS 1D X DSLR Camera available for $5,907.82 with free shipping. Compare at $6,799.00.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.1%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
Canon 35mm f/2 IS Lens Compared to the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Lens
Comparing the Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens with the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Lens - which to choose:
If you need the f/1.4 aperture, for the shallow depth of field or for the faster shutter speeds it makes available (key to stopping action in low light), your decision is made. You need the Sigma 35 f/1.4.
If you need Image Stabilization, the Canon 35 f/2 IS is of course the right choice.
If f/2 is wide enough for you and you don't need IS, the decision becomes a bit more complicated. Here are some comparisons to help with that decision process.
The Sigma of course rules all comparisons at f/1.4 - and turns in remarkable performance at f/1.4 compared to other f/1.4 lenses.
The Canon joins the comparison at f/2. At f/2, you can expect the Sigma to be noticeably sharper in the center of the image and the Canon to have a slight sharpness edge closer to the corners - where the Canon shows more vignetting. The sharpness comparison at f/2.8 has these lenses performing more similarly in the center (both excellent). The Sigma retains a slight center advantage and the Canon holds the peripheral edge. Beyond f/2.8, both lenses are razor sharp with the Canon retaining slightly better full frame corner sharpness.
The Sigma has about 1/2 as much vignetting at comparable apertures until stopped down to about f/4 where the Canon trails the Sigma by a very small amount through f/16. The Sigma has slightly less flare until the aperture narrows to f/8. The Canon then has noticeably less flare through f/16. Neither lens has significant distortion. These two lenses deliver similar (good) bokeh at comparable apertures.
The Canon weighs 1/2 as much, is smaller and focuses closer with a higher MM (0.24x vs. 0.19x). The Canon is modestly less expensive at this time.
Japan's Canon reports Q4 operating profit down 17.9 percent TOKYO - Japan's Canon Inc posted a 17.9 percent drop in quarterly operating profit on Wednesday, hurt by a strong yen and weaker demand for compact cameras as consumers switched to smartphones.
Canon says sales in China down more than 30 percent in 2012 TOKYO - Canon Inc said on Wednesday that its sales in China fell more than 30 percent in the year to December 2012, more than it had expected, due to a slowdown in that country and a territorial dispute between Tokyo and Beijing.
Canon forecasts 7.1 pct drop in 2013 compact camera sales TOKYO, Jan 30 - Japan's Canon Inc said on Wednesday it expected to sell 17 million compact cameras in the current business year ending in December, versus 18.3 million in 2012.
Canon Announces Development of 25p Recording for EOS 1D C DSLR Cinema Camera
From Canon UK:
Canon develops feature upgrade for the world’s first 4K DSLR, the EOS-1D C
United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 30 January 2013 – Canon today announces the development of a new feature upgrade for the ground-breaking EOS-1D C. The upgrade has been developed taking into account feedback from the European professional video community, and adds support for 25p recording at the camera’s maximum 4K resolution.
Designed for the motion picture, television and high-resolution production industries, the EOS-1D C is the world’s first DSLR to support 4K video capture. It offers a unique, highly portable package optimised for ultra-high quality recording, delivering exceptional low light performance and film-like dynamic range from a highly-compact body that can be used in a wide-range of shooting situations.
The EOS 1D-C captures 4K (4,096 x 2,160) video using 8-bit motion JPEG compression, with the ability to simultaneously output an uncompressed Full HD (1920x1080) YCbCr 4:2:2 signal to an external recorder via its HDMI terminal. Full HD video can also be recorded direct to CF cards at frame rates of up to 1080/60p, whilst Canon Log Gamma ensures video is rich in exposure latitude and dynamic range – offering outstanding freedom for video professionals during shooting, and for colourists in post-production.
The new feature upgrade will be available free of charge from April 2013.
Canon EOS 1D X firmware v1.2.1 is now available for download.
Firmware Version 1.2.1 incorporates the following improvements and fixes.
The function to disable the Image size selection button has been added. * Please see the instruction manual "EOS-1D X Firmware Version 1.2.x Additional Function" (PDF file) included in the downloaded firmware 1.2.1 folder for information on how to intentionally disable this button, after the firmware update 1.2.1 has been installed in the camera.
Fixes a phenomenon in which Err 70 and Err 80 may occur during certain shooting conditions.
With the proper API becoming available, The-Digital-Picture.com's news feed is now feeding into the site's Google+ Page. If you are a Google+ user, you are welcome to follow us there. The Google+ icon now joins the other social networking icons on the menu bar.
While on the social networking topic, we greatly appreciate your "Likes", "+1s", "Tweets" and other links to the site - especially for the site's home page. These actions bring more visitors to the site (including through search engines), which makes it easier to keep the site going. Simply use the buttons on the top-right of every page to do this.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.1%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
DateTime: 1/29/2013 12:27:06 PM CT Posted By: Sean
Nikon Announces Winner of 'The Full Story' Photo Contest
From Nikon:
Grand-Prize Winner to Go on Assignment to Galápagos with National Geographic Traveler Magazine’s Digital Nomad, Andrew Evans
MELVILLE, N.Y. – Nikon Inc., in partnership with National Geographic, today announced Brian Forbes Powell of Tucson, Ariz., as the grand-prize winner of “The Full Story” photo contest. Powell’s submission, “Test of Resiliency: Land and Ranchers in Arizona's Borderland Region,” was shot with the new FX-format Nikon D600 D-SLR camera and was chosen from among five first-prize winners. As the grand-prize winner, Powell will accompany National Geographic Traveler magazine’s Andrew Evans, also known as the Digital Nomad, on a National Geographic Expeditions trip to the Galápagos Islands next month.
“The Full Story” contest was created by Nikon to inspire budding photojournalists to convey their stories through imagery with the use of the Nikon D600 D-SLR camera. Nikon has a heritage of providing photojournalists with the tools they need to tell compelling stories through images and video, and with this contest Nikon is excited to support the next generation of storytellers.
Powell’s winning submission was composed of 19 still images with descriptive captions, a short essay, and an additional video slideshow. The winning story was chosen by a panel of qualified Nikon representatives for the compelling nature of its visual story, its creativity and its photographic quality.
“This is a story about land, the family ranchers who make their living from that land and whether the resiliency of each is sufficient to withstand the numerous challenges — both old and new — that threaten the environmental and cultural fabric of this rural landscape,” Powell wrote in his submission.
DateTime: 1/29/2013 10:55:40 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Nikon D4 Firmware A:1.04 / B:1.02 Available for Download
From Nikon:
Modifications enabled with this upgrade of firmware, release date January 29, 2013
Subject tracking performance in AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) autofocus mode with framing using the viewfinder has been improved.
Basic Upgrade instructions*
IMPORTANT - The firmware cannot be upgraded when Network> Network connection in the setup menu is set to ON. Be sure to set Network connection to OFF before attempting to upgrade the firmware.
Create a new folder with an appropriate name on your computer.
Choose the correct download below for the computer system you are using, and save the download to the folder created in step 1.
Run the downloaded file to create the folder titled D4Update, containing the following file: D4_0104.bin
Format an approved memory card in the camera, then remove .
Copy the D4_0104.bin file to the top level of the memory card using a memory card reader or similar device, do not copy the file into any folder on the memory card.
Insert memory card into the cameras memory card slot, and switch on.
Select Firmware Version from the setup menu and follow the instructions displayed to upgrade the camera's firmware.
DO NOT switch off the camera at any time during the update, doing so may result in the need for service.
After the upgrade is complete, trun the camera off and remove the memory card.
Check the cameras firmware version to be sure it completed.
Format memory card in camera for use.
* - Firmware updates can be performed for you at authorized Nikon service centers.
Download the complete firmware update instructions here.
Download the Nikon D4 A:1.04 / B:1.02 firmware: Windows | Macintosh
DateTime: 1/29/2013 10:35:04 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Sigma Announces SIGMA 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Lens
From Sigma:
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM, the large-aperture APS-C standard lens.
“SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM”, the large-aperture standard lens with an angle of view equivalent to 45mm on a 35mm camera, is a superb go-to lens for artistic photography on an APS-C format digital SLR. Offering the bright f/1.4 aperture and an angle of view extremely close to that of human vision, this lens is ideal for many different types of photographic expression.
Featuring an advanced design and the latest manufacturing technologies, SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC HSM, the large-aperture APS-C format standard lens delivers the highest level of image quality worthy of the Art line. The photographer can leverage the shallow depth of field that creates beautiful bokeh for snap shots, portraits, landscapes, and many different styles of photography.
Sigma pioneered the large-aperture, APS-C format, standard lens category with its 30mm f/1.4 lens in 2005. With new optical configurations of nine elements in eight groups, as well as rounded aperture blades, this updated lens delivers pleasing sharpness and a beautiful bokeh background. Its minimum focusing distance is 11.8 inches and its maximum magnification ratio is 1:6.8. The lens’ optimized power distribution helps to minimize field curvature, prevent a loss of image quality at the edges of photographs and produce outstanding image quality. Its double-aspheric lens minimizes spherical distortion, astigmatism and coma, and its rear focus system prevents focus-dependent variation in aberration. Together, the new optimized auto focus (AF) algorithm and rear focusing system ensure smooth and accurate focusing. The new 30mm f/1.4 is also compatible with Sigma’s new USB Dock, which will enable firmware updates and focusing adjustments, is expected to be available in coming months.
Canon Announces PowerShot ELPH 330 HS, ELPH 115 IS, and A2500 Digital Cameras
From Canon:
CANON U.S.A. INTRODUCES THREE NEW STYLISH POWERSHOT DIGITAL CAMERAS PROVIDING WIDE-ANGLE AND LONG TELEPHOTO LENSES IN COMPACT DESIGNS
New Lineup Includes the Wireless-Enabled PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Digital Camera With a Powerful 10x Optical Zoom Lens
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 28, 2013 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the addition of three stylish, feature-packed PowerShot Digital Cameras: the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS, ELPH 115 IS and A2500. These new models are ideal for photography enthusiasts of all levels looking for great photo quality and excellent video performance in compact, powerful point-and-shoot designs.
The new PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera provides advanced wireless connectivity for easy sharing. Providing great performance in dimly lit situations, the ELPH 330 HS digital camera includes the Company’s HS SYSTEM that delivers clear images with minimal noise and maximum detail even when shooting in low-light. The new cameras offer great features such as Canon’s Smart AUTO, enabling even novice users to get optimal camera performance automatically, so whether photographing a running child or a solo recital on stage the cameras deliver spectacular images with ease. Smart AUTO allows the cameras to detect up to 58 scenes for the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera and up to 32 scenes for the PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera and PowerShot A2500 digital camera. All three models also feature ECO Mode, an advanced new method that manages power consumption and extends battery life by approximately 30 percent, when enabled, allowing you to shoot more photos for a longer amount of time.
“With the introduction of these sleek, new models to our family of PowerShot digital cameras, we are able to provide our customers with a range of imaging options including more models with wireless connectivity to upload and share their amazing creative images,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.
PowerShot ELPH 330 HS Digital Camera
Photography today is as much about image quality as it is about sharing, whether through prints or online communities. With this in mind, the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera builds upon the success of the PowerShot line with built-in advanced wireless capabilities to easily share high-quality images captured with an impressive 10x optical zoom lens and 12.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor. After an initial one-time set-up, the camera can connect to both iOS® or AndroidTM smartphones and tabletsi for quick and easy sharing. Users launch Canon’s free CameraWindow application [i]i, available on both the iOS® and AndroidTM operating systemsi, to wirelessly transfer photos and videos from the camera to their device. Frequently used devices and accounts are conveniently stored in the camera’s wireless history menu for quick one-touch access.
With these enhanced wireless capabilities, users now have the ability to comment on their uploaded photos directly from the camera – so being part of conversations taking place on social networking sites is easy and convenient. In addition, individuals can control the destination of Facebook uploads – choosing to share content with everyone, or post photos only to selected Facebook groups. Users can also instantly upload images wirelessly from the camera to Canon iMAGE GATEWAYiii, and automatically upload them to a computer remotely. Photos can also be printed wirelessly using Wireless PictBridgeiv on select Canon wireless inkjet printers, including the new PIXMA MG6320 Photo All-In-One printer, so special moments can be preserved and cherished.
A fantastic multipurpose lens: the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera provides a 10x optical zoom lens taking images from 24mm wide, up to 240mm at the telephoto end, able to capture that group shot, or zoom in for a dynamic close-up. Great even in low light, the camera’s 12.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor combine and deliver on Canon’s HS SYSTEM helping ensure detail is captured even in dark or shadowed areas at a maximum ISO speed of up to 6400. For capturing memorable moments on video, at the touch of a dedicated movie-record button, the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera shoots beautiful 1080p Full HD video and includes a built-in stereo microphone for great sound. Helping document vacations with your own personal highlight reel, the camera’s new Hybrid AUTO mode utilizes a combination of Smart AUTO and Intelligent IS to create a beautiful and steady HD video clip (up to approximately 4 seconds) in Movie Digest mode every time you shoot a still image. Helping ensure you don’t miss those magic moments, the camera features both High Speed AF for fast focusing speed and High-Speed Burst for continuous capture at up to 6.2 frames per second while maintaining superb image quality. The combination of features, including wireless connectivity, Canon’s Intelligent IS system and ECO Mode, help make the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera a great imaging companion for vacations, all-day sporting events, or family parties.
Expected to hit store shelves in March, the PowerShot ELPH 330 HS digital camera will be available in three modern colors: black, silver and pink for an estimated retail price of $229.99.
PowerShot ELPH 115 IS Digital Camera
The new pocket-able PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera features an 8x optical zoom lens (28-224mm), which provides a focal range to capture most any situation. The PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera includes a 16-megapixel image sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor for exceptional image quality. For those photographers who “shoot it all” and seamlessly move from scene to scene, the PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera provides Canon’s Smart AUTO mode that intelligently selects the proper camera settings based on up to 32 predefined shooting situations for capturing spectacular images in a variety of settings with ease. For creative video capture, users can record HD video with a built-in microphone for great sound. The PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera also includes Canon’s unique Intelligent IS system technology, matching the lens movement with one of six stabilization modes for smooth video and sharp still images. The camera also includes Canon’s new ECO Mode allowing you to shoot more photos for a longer amount of time.
With anticipated in-store availability in March, the PowerShot ELPH 115 IS digital camera will be available in four sleek colors: blue, silver, black and pink at an estimated retail price of $169.99.
PowerShot A2500 Digital Camera
Rounding out Canon’s new PowerShot lineup is the PowerShot A2500 digital camera, which includes a 16-megapixel image sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor, as well as a 28mm wide-angle lens with 5x optical zoom that can extend out to 140mm at the telephoto end. The camera also features Canon’s Smart AUTO mode that analyzes each scene to intelligently select camera settings based on 32 predefined shooting scenarios to help capture stunning images with ease. The PowerShot A2500 digital camera can also capture great video, recording HD through a dedicated movie button. Helping ensure crisp images, Canon’s Digital IS reduces the effect of camera shake and subject movement. For travelers and those on the go, Canon’s new ECO Mode conserves battery life, allowing you to shoot more photos over a longer period of time. For those photographers looking to be a little more creative, the camera also features various Scene Modes such as Fisheye Effect, Toy Camera Effect and Monochrome to help provide additional creative freedom when capturing your photos. And for those just learning the art of photography, a Help Button will provide simple explanations of camera settings and functions.
Expected for sale in April, the PowerShot A2500 digital camera will be available in silver, red and black for an estimated retail price of $129.99.
Nikon Announces COOLPIX P520, L820, S9500, and S6500 Digital Cameras
From Nikon:
With Incredible Zoom Ranges, Nikon's New S9500, P520 and L820 COOLPIX Cameras Make Capturing Action at a Distance Easy
Combining Connectivity with High Quality NIKKOR Lenses, Nikon’s New COOLPIX Cameras are Designed for Every Shooting Occasion
MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. introduced three new COOLPIX digital cameras with high-power zoom lenses, enabling consumers to capture beautiful images and videos at a wide range of distances. The COOLPIX P520 sports a 42x zoom lens and the versatility needed for advanced performance, while the 22x zoom COOLPIX S9500 combines impressive range with an ultra-slim, pocketable package. Both feature Wi-Fi® connectivity1 that allows users to send images and videos from their camera directly to a compatible smart device through the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1, ideal for sharing content with others as well as for posting to social networking sites. The compact COOLPIX L820 offers a 30x zoom and an ergonomic design, making it simple and fun to comfortably capture images and videos at various distances. Great for anyone from the weekend jetsetter to the everyday memory maker, the zoom lenses and user-friendly features of the newest COOLPIX cameras make them ideal to have on-hand for any occasion.
“Nikon’s new long zoom COOLPIX cameras provide consumers with the chance to capture a diverse range of subjects and scenes, whether near the subject or at a distance,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “Designed for the frequent traveler, the instant sharer, and the family memory keeper, these new COOLPIX cameras offer trusted Nikon technology, high image quality, Full HD video and a variety of other features that meet photographers’ needs.”
The Nikon COOLPIX P520: The Advanced Performance Ultra Zoom Camera
For those looking to capture a beautiful and sharp image up close or at a distance, the new COOLPIX P520 boasts a 42x optical zoom-NIKKOR glass lens with an impressive zoom range from a wide 24mm to a whopping 1000mm (35mm equivalent), for users that require the very best in performance and versatility. Lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) alongside the new Active Mode assist in capturing blur-free images and video, while full manual controls give users the power to realize their creative potential when shooting. The P520 also features an 18.1-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor and high ISO sensitivity to ensure quality images even in low-light conditions.
Additionally, the COOLPIX P520 allows users to not only shoot images from a distance, but also at unique angles thanks to a versatile 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD monitor. Additionally, Full HD (1080p) video recording with stereo sound is possible with the simple touch of the dedicated movie record button. This ultra-zoom camera comes with built-in GPS capabilities as well, allowing photographers to log their journey with an easy-to-use display.
To share images and videos instantly with family and friends, the P520 is compatible with the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter2. This optional accessory paired along with the downloadable Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1 allows users to transfer their images and videos to compatible smart devices and tablets for easy sharing and viewing with others.
The Nikon COOLPIX L820: A Comfortable Long Zoom Camera Fit to Preserve Precious Family Memories
Designed to capture stunning images at various distances, the compact COOLPIX L820 sports a high-power 30x zoom, a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, and Vibration Reduction (VR) technology to help keep shots steady. With its super wide-angle lens, covering from wide-angle 22.5mm to super-telephoto 675mm, users have the versatility to capture crisp, vivid images, whether up-close or at a distance. The camera’s 3-inch monitor, ergonomic design, along with the convenience of AA-size batteries and a dedicated video button make it easy and fun for users to shoot comfortably. Thanks to a simple and intuitive interface, users can easily access a wide range of features, including Easy Auto Mode and Smart Portrait System, which enable them to enhance their photos with options like Red Eye Fix and Face-Priority AF. Other special effects include Glamour Retouch, Filter Effects and Skin Softening for optimal portrait enhancements.
The Nikon COOLPIX S9500: New Ultra-Slim Zoom Offering Shares World Travels With Ease
The slim COOLPIX S9500 sports a 22x optical zoom (25-550mm) and is the perfect companion for anyone that wants to capture and share high-quality images and HD videos with a sleek and stylish package. Small enough to keep close in a shirt pocket or purse, the S9500 features an 18.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, ideal for capturing low-light images with clarity and sharpness. It also sports a legendary NIKKOR lens with Vibration Reduction (VR) to minimize the effects of blur and camera shake. For those who want to capture their journey through video, this camera also offers Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound. Additionally, a bright 3-inch OLED monitor assists users to clearly compose or view their recorded movies or captured images, even when in bright conditions. The COOLPIX S9500 also offers various shooting effects to enhance memories, including an upgraded Glamour Retouch function, Skin Softening and Quick Effects.
To enhance the user’s sharing capabilities when away from family and friends, the S9500 offers a built-in GPS function to provide the user the ability to log their travels and share where they have been. In addition, the camera offers built-in Wi-Fi®1 connectivity so images and videos can be shared while on the go by transferring them to a compatible smart device equipped with the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1. It also enables users to remotely take photos with the camera from a compatible smartphone or tablet.
The COOLPIX S6500: Compact Camera that Packs a Powerful 12x Zoom
Announced earlier this month, the COOLPIX S6500 is designed for those looking for an easy-to-carry camera that takes and shares great photos, easily. The camera features a 12x optical zoom lens, a 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a variety of user-friendly features, including five new Glamour Retouch effects, all packed into a slim, stylish camera body. In addition to an extensive feature set, the S6500 offers built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity1 that allows users to transfer images and HD movies from their camera directly to a compatible smart device.
Price and Availability:
The COOLPIX P520 will be available for a suggested retail price of $449.95* in Black, Red, and Dark Grey in February 2013. The COOLPIX L820 will be available for a suggested retail price of $279.95* in Black and Red, while the COOLPIX S9500 will be available for a suggested retail price of $349.95* in Black, Silver, and Red. Both will be available in February 2013. Additionally, the previously announced COOLPIX S6500 will be available in early February for a suggested retail price of $219.95* in Silver, Black, Red and Orange.
In order to give consumers a more effective way to understand the benefits of each COOLPIX camera and to help users determine the best camera to fit their lifestyle, Nikon has segmented the COOLPIX series into five categories: Advanced Performance, Fun & Innovative, Ultra-Slim Zoom, Comfort Long Zoom and Budget Friendly. For more information about these and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
Nikon Announces COOLPIX S31 and AW110 Digital Cameras
From Nikon:
The New Family-Friendly Nikon COOLPIX S31 and the Action-Oriented COOLPIX AW110 Are Ready to Take on Life's Adventures
MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. introduced both the COOLPIX AW110 and COOLPIX S31, two innovative yet durable compact cameras for those who want to preserve every fun and action-packed moment as well as share them with friends and family. Waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof1, the rugged AW110 is built to handle the elements, whether hiking up a mountain, hitting the slopes or riding the surf. Nikon’s newest tough camera also offers built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity2 for sharing, Full HD 1080p video capabilities and a slew of advanced features that adventurers covet, including GPS and underwater shooting modes. The COOLPIX S313 provides the reliability that allows every member of the family to preserve their own special memories. Complete with fun shooting modes and a simple yet intuitive user interface, the resilient S31 is a family camera that can be confidently carried to the pool or around the jungle gym.
“The COOLPIX AW110 and COOLPIX S31 are exciting new additions to the COOLPIX camera lineup; both are uniquely designed to complement the needs of different consumers. The COOLPIX AW110 is designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts who need a camera that can keep up with their active lifestyle, while the COOLPIX S31’s easy-to-use interface is great for family members young and old who seek to capture lasting memories,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “Whether conquering your desire for exploration while snorkeling or simply capturing a family day at the park, Nikon’s newest cameras offer the performance, features and image quality users have come to expect from the COOLPIX line.”
The Nikon COOLPIX AW110: Durable Performance for the Outdoor Adventurer
The COOLPIX AW110 is the ultimate point-and-shoot camera for the outdoor enthusiast that demands exceptional image quality and sharp, clear HD video from a compact body. Ready for the toughest conditions, this rugged camera sports a fun and innovative feature set designed to capture, preserve and share every moment of a user’s active lifestyle. Waterproof (up to 59 feet), shockproof (up to 6.7 feet) and freezeproof (down to 14° F), the AW110 is a versatile and feature-rich companion, above and below sea level. GPS technology is also enabled, allowing a traveler to track his or her adventure from beginning to end, down to the exact longitude and latitude where an image or video is captured. The COOLPIX AW110 also features built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity2, allowing the image data transfer of any outdoor adventure to compatible smart devices for upload to social networking services or sharing with friends and family through the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility2 application. Wireless remote camera control is also possible using a compatible smartphone or tablet when using the application.
Beneath its rugged exterior, the AW110 features a 16-megapixel backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor that helps create sharp, beautiful images and HD video even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera also has a NIKKOR 5x optical zoom lens with lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) that allows the photographer to get close up to a subject from a distance, as well as the ability to record Full HD (1080p) movies with stereo sound. The COOLPIX AW110 features a 3-inch, OLED display for easy menu access and precise image preview, alongside an intuitive graphic user interface (GUI) that makes it easy to navigate several fun and intelligent shooting modes, including Easy Auto Mode and the Smart Portrait System, while Special Effects can be easily applied to still images and HD video.
The Nikon COOLPIX S31: Every Family Member Can Capture Beautiful Images, Worry Free
Ready for every precious family moment, the 10.1-megapixel COOLPIX S31 allows every family member young and old to capture beautiful photos with ease, whether on vacation or at the pool. Housed in a compact, durable body that is waterproof (up to 16.5 feet), shockproof (up to 3.6 feet) and dustproof1, this point-and-shoot takes the worry out of photography regardless of the setting or situation. Clear and precise images or HD video are made possible with the help of a 3x optical zoom (29-87mm equivalent) NIKKOR lens, and a dedicated video record button creates an effortless transition from stills to video.
A 2.7-inch LCD display supports an enhanced easy and intuitive graphic user interface (GUI) that allows for simple navigation and several shooting and playback modes designed to make photography simple and fun when using the S31. The camera allows the user to instantly show off his or her favorite family moments using unique playback options including in-camera slide shows and photo albums. Image editing and playback filter effects can also be applied to both stills and video, offering the opportunity to add a personal touch to every family memory. The COOLPIX S31 features functions that make shooting simpler than ever before.
Pricing and Availability:
The COOLPIX AW110 will be available in Orange, Black, Camouflage and Blue in February 2013 for a suggested retail price of $349.95*. The COOLPIX S31 will be available in White, Blue, Pink, Brown and Yellow, also in February 2013, for a suggested retail price of $119.95*.
In order to give consumers a more effective way to understand the benefits of each COOLPIX camera and to help users determine the best camera to fit their lifestyle, Nikon has segmented the COOLPIX series into five categories: Advanced Performance, Fun & Innovative, Ultra-Slim Zoom, Comfort Long Zoom and Budget Friendly. For more information about these and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
Nikon Announces COOLPIX S5200 and L28 Digital Cameras
From Nikon:
The Latest Additions to the Nikon COOLPIX Line Offer an Easy and Fun Shooting Experience for Consumers Seeking a Value
The New COOLPIX S5200 and COOLPIX L28 Capture Gorgeous Stills and HD Video with Ease
MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. introduced two budget friendly additions to its COOLPIX line that offer a compact, intuitive design for value-seeking consumers who want to capture high quality stills and HD video. With an emphasis on simplicity, alongside helpful in-camera editing and shooting controls, the new COOLPIX S5200 and COOLPIX L28 are ideal for capturing life’s everyday moments, anytime, anywhere.
“Nikon’s newest COOLPIX cameras combine Nikon’s renowned image quality and superior technology in conveniently slim bodies for those who love to share their memories,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience. “These new COOLPIX cameras are affordable, yet offer classic user-friendly features like Best Smile Selector and Easy Auto Mode, ideal for customers looking to capture high-quality images with ease.”
The Nikon COOLPIX S5200: The Camera for Staying Connected
The COOLPIX S5200 is a versatile camera with a 16.0-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor that captures high-quality images and video, even in low-light conditions. Featuring a wide-angle 6x (26mm to 156mm) optical zoom-NIKKOR glass lens, the compact and slim S5200 ensures crisp, detailed images in a pocketable body. Images and videos can be uploaded and shared instantly using the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® capabilities1, allowing users to share images and videos with compatible smart devices via the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1.
While sharing photos is fun, the COOLPIX S5200 makes creating flattering photos easy. Users have access to simple editing and shooting features including Best Smile Selector, a tool that automatically helps select the shot that best compliments the subject. In addition, an upgraded version of Glamour Retouch lets the user brighten faces using a variety of retouch effects. All shooting features, including Quick Effects and Target Finding AF, are accessible using the camera’s simple yet intuitive 3-inch TFT LCD monitor.
The Nikon COOLPIX L28: A Compact Camera for Everyday Life
The 20.1-megapixel COOLPIX L28 features easy-to-use shooting functions and streamlined operation that allow users to capture unique and expressive photos and videos effortlessly. Equipped with a 5x optical zoom (26mm to 130mm) and simple shooting functions such as Easy Auto Mode, this new COOLPIX camera allows the user to capture pristine still images and HD video at the touch of a button. The COOLPIX L28’s Smart Portrait Mode has six functions including Face-priority AF, Skin Softening, Smile Timer, Blink Proof and In-Camera Red-Eye Fix that allow users to take their creativity to new heights. For comfortable operation, the L28 also sports a 3-inch TFT LCD screen and an easy-to-hold grip and button layout that fits in a user’s hand comfortably. The COOLPIX L28 uses widely available AA-size alkaline batteries, so users can conveniently keep their cameras powered.
Pricing and Availability:
The COOLPIX S5200 will be available in February 2013 for a suggested retail price of $179.95* in Plum, Red, Blue and Black. The COOLPIX L28 will be available in February 2013 for a suggested retail price of $119.95* in Red, Black and Silver.
In order to give consumers a more effective way to understand the benefits of each COOLPIX camera and to help users determine the best camera to fit their lifestyle, Nikon has segmented the COOLPIX series into five categories: Advanced Performance, Fun & Innovative, Ultra-Slim Zoom, Comfort Long Zoom and Budget Friendly. For more information about these and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
Nikon Announces AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED and AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR Lenses
From Nikon:
Exacting Precision From Near or Afar: Nikon's Newest NIKKOR Lenses Offer Optical Brilliance and Versatility for FX-Format Shooters
Nikon Continues to Expand Upon the NIKKOR Lens Lineup with the New AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR Super-Telephoto Lens and AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Wide-Angle Lens
MELVILLE, N.Y. – Today, Nikon Inc. introduced the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR super-telephoto lens and AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED ultra-wide-angle zoom lens, designed to assist FX-format photographers in capturing their subjects with clarity and precision. Specifically engineered for sports, wildlife and photojournalists, the 800mm f/5.6 offers the longest focal length of any NIKKOR autofocus (AF) lens, affording photographers the opportunity to get closer to their subject with extreme telephoto capability. Additionally, the compact and lightweight 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5 is an ultra-wide-angle lens option with a 1.9x zoom range is an ideal focal length for landscape photography and other wide-angle applications.
“The addition of the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR super-telephoto lens and AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED wide-angle zoom lens to the FX-format NIKKOR lens lineup reaffirms Nikon’s commitment to the optical excellence and versatility that professional and enthusiast photographers have come to expect from Nikon,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “Whether shooting on the sidelines under stadium lights or composing a landscape in the early morning sun, the newest additions to the NIKKOR line of lenses provide the ability to shoot stunning still images or HD video with amazing sharpness and clarity.”
The Elusive and Iconic Image is Never Out of Reach
The new AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR super-telephoto lens provides professional photographers the opportunity to get close to a subject with the longest fixed focal length lens in the NIKKOR family. Designed for the needs of sports, wildlife and news photographers, the 800mm features a maximum aperture of f/5.6 and gives FX-format photographers the chance to capture intense detail and textures that fill the frame from a distance. Included with the new lens is the matched AF-S Teleconverter TC800-1.25E ED which has been developed exclusively for the 800mm f/5.6 lens. This is the first Nikon teleconverter to employ an ED glass element, and extends the maximum focal length 1.25x to 1000mm (1500mm when used with a DX-format camera) and maximum aperture to f/7.1 while maintaining full AF performance on D4, D800 series and D600 FX-format D-SLR cameras.
Originally trialed and tested under the demanding conditions of the 2012 summer games, the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR maintains the handling, optical performance, vivid color reproduction and exceptional clarity that professional photographers rely on. This is the first Nikon lens constructed with two fluorite glass elements, combined with two ED glass elements and a Nano Crystal Coat, to help ensure outstanding performance with minimal chromatic aberration and flaring, all within a durable lens body. The addition of fluorite elements allows for consistently excellent optical characteristics while keeping the lens balanced and lightweight. The lens is comprised of 20 elements in 13 groups, and is one of few Nikon lenses to utilize an electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism that enables seamless mechanical control and enhanced stability in auto exposure control during continuous shooting. Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization is also implemented, with the equivalent of approximately four stops faster1 shutter speed correction.
An Ultra Wide-Angle Wonder for FX-Format Photographers
Nikon’s newest ultra-wide-angle NIKKOR offering, the AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED, features a useful wide-angle focal length of 18-35mm (1.9x zoom equivalent). This FX-format lens is ideal for large group shots, architecture and photographing or shooting HD video in tight interiors. Performance is optimized for ultra-high-pixel-count D-SLR cameras including the Nikon D800 series and D600, while providing close focus up to .92 feet (approx. 11 inches). The 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5 presents a new, lightweight wide-angle option for FX-format D-SLR shooters.
The AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED packs NIKKOR quality and performance within an extremely compact and lightweight 0.85 lb. (385g) body, making it easy to carry while on location or on-the-go. Constructed with 12 elements in 8 groups, Nikon’s newest wide-angle lens features a seven-blade diaphragm that allows for beautiful and precise image blur, ED glass to help ensure outstanding performance with minimal chromatic aberration while Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating (SIC) reduces ghosting even in backlit situations. Two focus modes are available including M/A (AF with manual override) and M (Manual) in addition to a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that enables quiet AF operation.
Price and Availability
The AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR, supplied with the AF-S Teleconverter TC800-1.25E ED, will be available in April 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $17,899.95*. The AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED will be available in March 2013 for the SRP of $749.95*. For more information on these and other NIKKOR lenses as well as other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
DateTime: 1/28/2013 12:17:03 PM CT Posted By: Sean
Datacolor Announces Free Winter 2013 Color Management Webinars
From Datacolor:
Datacolor Webinars Offer Step-by-Step Techniques to Produce High Quality Images
Lawrenceville, NJ – January 28, 2013 – Datacolor® (www.datacolor.com), a global leader in color management solutions, announced today its winter 2013 line-up of free color management webinars. Continuing its popular series, Datacolor is offering introductory and advanced webinars on a variety of topics to demonstrate new techniques for photographers to enhance their skills. Additionally, Datacolor is partnering with other notable photography related companies for an even more dynamic webinar series. Co-sponsors, including Lensbaby and SLR Lounge, will offer product giveaways and promotions.
The bi-monthly webinars, hosted by David Tobie, global product technology manager for Datacolor, and David Saffir, Datacolor expert, noted landscape and fine art photographer, and author of “Master Digital Color,” focus on managing color using tools in both capture and processing stages. Webinars include step-by-step demonstrations using Datacolor’s line of Spyder color calibration devices, and in-depth discussion to provide photographers with new methods to produce high quality results with their own images.
“As technology changes so do workflow methods,” said David Tobie. “Datacolor is known for our thought leaders and we want to be a resource to photographers and provide them with both the tools and techniques they need to produce high quality images. We are excited to bring in new partners, topics and trends to support photographers from the novice to the pro to further develop their skills and take their photography to the next level.”
Upcoming topics for the Datacolor color management webinar series to include:
January 30, 2013 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. EST: Valentine’s Photography: Photographing Loved Ones, Couples and More
February 13, 2013 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. EST: Advanced Workflow Using Lightroom 4 and Photoshop CS6 (Co-sponsor: SLR Lounge)
February 27, 2013 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. EST: Tips and Techniques for Floral Photography (Co-sponsor: Lensbaby)
March 6, 2013 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. EST: Artistic Techniques in Phone Photography
March 28, 2013 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. EST: What’s in Your Camera Bag?
Those interested in attending can register in advance for the free webinars. Attendees will be automatically entered to win a Datacolor Spyder product coinciding with the webinar topic. Guests will also have the ability to interact with the speakers in a Q&A format, and get first-hand input on applying color management effectively in their workflow.
DateTime: 1/28/2013 11:56:58 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens Autofocus Teardown Findings
Friend of the site Bo Zhang recently sent us his findings regarding autofocus problems he was experiencing with his Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM lens. After his teardown and testing process, Zhang surmised that paint loss on a specific rotor resulted in metal shavings that jammed the autofocus motor.
From Bo Zhang:
"Now the result is clear: The HSM needed this layer of spray paint to work properly. The paint provided scortch free friction interface. I now have to order new HSM parts to get my lens fixed. But how long can a new layer of paint last?"
Download Bo Zhang's complete teardown findings here (PDF).
DateTime: 1/28/2013 10:13:38 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Nikon Image Space is Now Live
Nikon Image Space, Nikon's overhauled "Picturetown," is now live. There are two types of free accounts - the regular free account provides users with 2GBs of storage while Nikon camera owners receive 20GBs of storage.
The current Canon rebate program is scheduled to end this Saturday, February 2nd. While the rebate has been extended multiple times, there is no guarantee it will happen again.
If you're on the fence about purchasing a Canon DSLR camera or lens, just look at the rebate amount and ask yourself if you'd like to risk having to spend that much more for your item.
January 28, 2013 - TOKYO - Nikon Corporation celebrates the 80th anniversary of the launch of its NIKKOR photographic lenses this year
In commemoration of NIKKOR's 80th anniversary, Nikon hopes to strengthen and increase awareness of the historic and reliable NIKKOR brand with various promotions in 2013. The first step toward achieving this objective is the creation of a NIKKOR 80th anniversary logo that will be used in Nikon product brochures, advertisements, and various other forms of communication. The anniversary logo will embody NIKKOR's image of taking the lead in every age based on optical technologies developed over its long history.
NIKKOR's history began in 1932 with Nikon's (then Nippon Kogaku K.K.) registration of the NIKKOR trademark, soon followed in 1933 with the first shipment of Aero-Nikkor aerial photographic lenses. Since then, Nikon has continued to develop lenses for both film and digital cameras. Always loaded with cutting edge optical technologies of the times, NIKKOR has grown to be a brand known for high-performance lenses.
In 1959, Nikon (then Nippon Kogaku K.K.) released its first SLR camera, the Nikon F as well as its first lens for Nikon SLR cameras, the NIKKOR-S Auto 5cm f/2. The Nikon F mount, adopted for the Nikon F, continues to be the mount used in the latest Nikon digital-SLR cameras. In addition, with the release of the new Nikon 1 series of advanced cameras with interchangeable lenses incorporating the new 1 mount, Nikon has steadily released dedicated 1 mount lenses developed with optical technologies cultivated over the years, advanced technologies, and offering the superior image quality users have come to expect since 2011. As a result, total production of NIKKOR lenses for cameras with interchangeable lenses reached 75 million in November 2012.
NIKKOR lenses are not limited to use by cameras with interchangeable lenses but are also integrated into Nikon's COOLPIX series of compact digital cameras. Thus, NIKKOR lenses have been well received by a broad range of users, from entry-level to professional photographers. Nikon's lineup of lenses for cameras with interchangeable lenses currently consists of more than 80 types of lenses, including fisheye lenses, ultra wide-angle lenses, super-telephoto lenses, zoom lenses, micro lenses, PC-E lenses, and 1 NIKKOR lenses for advanced cameras with interchangeable lenses. Nikon will continue to develop high-quality NIKKOR lenses that attract a wide variety of photographers.
DateTime: 1/27/2013 10:38:50 AM CT Posted By: Sean
New Canon Body Bags
Camera body bags I mean. Just got a camera back from Canon service and it arrived in a microfiber bag that I have not seen before. Sporting the "White Glove" look, this bag will protect against dust and minor scratches. Little impact protection is provided.
I have to give Canon CPS Gold Service kudos for the fast turnaround on this repair. I shipped the camera on Tuesday, it arrived at Canon's Jamestown service facility on Wednesday, it was repaired and shipped on Thursday - and in my hands on Friday morning. With a free body bag. I couldn't ask for more.
DateTime: 1/27/2013 8:01:42 AM CT Posted By: Bryan
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens - $739.99 Shipped (Compare at $1,049.00 New)
eBay (via BigValueInc) has the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens for $739.99 with free shipping. Compare at $1,049.00 new - which is still a very good value for this great lens.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.1%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
Transcend Introduces Premium and Ultimate Series Memory Cards
From Transcend:
Transcend Offers a Complete Lineup of Ultra-High Speed Memory Cards to Boost the Performance of Your Device
January 24, 2013 - Transcend Information, Inc. (Transcend®), a worldwide leader in storage and multimedia products, is pleased to offer a comprehensive lineup of memory cards featuring the next-generation Ultra-High Speed Class 1 specification (UHS-I, U1). Thanks to the use of this cutting-edge technology, Transcend UHS-I memory cards not only elevate the performance of SDHC-equipped mobile devices, but also provide quick and seamless file transfers between card and computer.
Premium Series microSDHC and SDHC UHS-I Cards Designed to enhance the smartphone and tablet user experience, Transcend’s microSDHC UHS-I memory cards guarantee the best possible performance when running memory-intensive mobile apps and games, as well as Full HD video recording and playback. Taking full advantage of the UHS-I interface, Transcend’s SDHC UHS-I memory cards help digital camera users capture and store photos faster and more reliably than ever before.
To improve post-production efficiency, Transcend's ‘Premium’ series microSDHC and SDHC memory cards can achieve impressive transfer rates of up to 45MB/s (300X), significantly reducing the time it takes to copy files to a computer. Available in a range of capacities (8GB to 32GB), the microSDHC and SDHC Class 10 UHS-I cards provide vast storage space to store a massive amount of personal media files.
Ultimate Series SDHC/SDXC UHS-I Cards Aimed at professional photographers, reporters and enthusiasts, Transcend’s ‘Ultimate’ series SDHC/SDXC UHS-I memory cards help realize the full high-resolution recording capabilities of today’s latest DSLR and hybrid cameras, and camcorders. When paired with UHS-I enabled devices, these cards raise the bar with blazing fast transfer speeds of up to 90MB/s (600X), which makes them the perfect choice for capturing expert-quality images and smooth Full HD 1080p, 3D and even 4K Ultra HD video.
Featuring storage capacities ranging from 8GB to an enormous 64GB, Transcend SDHC/SDXC UHS-I cards provide plenty of space for professional-quality photos and videos. The 64GB SDXC card, for instance, can store a full 16 hours of 1080p High-Definition footage (1920x1080 9Mbps H.264 AVC compression) or over 4000 RAW images (based on 14MB file size), ideal for situations that demand continuous burst-mode shooting and non-stop video recording.
For added value, each Transcend UHS-I memory card includes a free download of Transcend’s own RecoveRx™ software - an extraordinarily effective tool for bringing back accidentally deleted or lost files. All Transcend memory cards are fully tested for compatibility and reliability, and carry Transcend’s renowned Lifetime Warranty.
I was not satisfied that the right side of my Tamron 24-70 VC lens-captured images was softer than the left. Since the right side is displayed in the site's ISO 12233 chart tool, I decided that Tamron should be given the chance to make the lens perform as I expected (some of you also requested this). Unfortunately, the lens performed better before I sent it to Tamron for tuning.
The first Tamron 24-70 VC I purchased performed so poorly that Tamron asked to have the lens returned to them. The second (retail-purchased) lens, while good, still had an issue (likely decentering). Now, after an attempt to correct the issue, the second lens performs slightly worse than it initially performed.
What to do now? I'll probably send the lens back to Tamron for a second repair attempt. I wouldn't be happy using it and wouldn't want anyone else to buy it on the used market. I will likely re-test the lens after the second repair. This testing process is very time consuming and therefore, very costly. This experience makes it hard to recommend buying this potentially very good lens to anyone.
DateTime: 1/25/2013 8:53:13 AM CT Posted By: Bryan
Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Flare Results
Clear skies have been in very short supply for us lately, but I was able to squeeze in a flare test recently. Flare test results are now included on the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Review page.
As with the other similar zoom lenses, you will want to keep very bright lights out of the frame when shooting with the Canon 24-70 f/4 L IS Lens.
DateTime: 1/25/2013 10:43:27 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Datacolor Hosts Valentine's Photography Webinar
From Datacolor:
Join us for a webinar on Valentine’s Photography
Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate and express love. Photography is a great tool to use when capturing those special moments. It can be a busy time for photographing couples, families, friends, kids, etc. There are many elements to consider in your capture to output workflow. This webinar will explore posing, attire, lighting, editing and printing of Valentine’s Day photography.
Join us, Wednesday, January 30th from 3PM-4PM EST, as Datacolor Experts David Saffir and C. David Tobie share their love of photography with you and some tips and tricks to use for this special holiday.
An interactive Q&A will take place throughout the webinar to answer any questions you may have.
Two lucky webinar guests will win free SpyderCUBES
Title: Valentine’s Photography: Photographing Loved Ones, Couples and More Date: Wednesday, January 30th, 2013 Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
CPN Presents Ángel Martínez on Shooting Sports with the Canon EOS 1D X
Canon Explorer Ángel Martínez, the official photographer for one of the world's biggest soccer teams - Real Madrid - discusses using Canon's latest flagship camera to capture fast action sports.
DateTime: 1/25/2013 10:03:53 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Save 40% Off the First Year of Adobe Creative Cloud
Adobe is offering 40% off the first year of Creative Cloud for existing Creative Suite users - that means you can get one year of Creative Cloud for only $29.99 per month after the 40% off ($20.00) discount.
There is also a 40% offacademic discount for qualifying students and teachers.
The Book of GIMP: A Complete Guide to Nearly Everything
For many photographers, Adobe Photoshop is a must-have in their digital post-processing workflow. Unfortunately, Photoshop is not cheap. For those photographers who are finding Photoshop's price tag to be a significant barrier, there is a free alternative - GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program).
"GIMP is an acronym for GNU Image Manipulation Program. It is a freely distributed program for such tasks as photo retouching, image composition and image authoring.
It has many capabilities. It can be used as a simple paint program, an expert quality photo retouching program, an online batch processing system, a mass production image renderer, an image format converter, etc.
GIMP is expandable and extensible. It is designed to be augmented with plug-ins and extensions to do just about anything. The advanced scripting interface allows everything from the simplest task to the most complex image manipulation procedures to be easily scripted."
While GIMP does not offer the latest features found in Adobe's Photoshop, it is a very powerful and capable image editing program. Unfortunately, GIMP's interface is not as user-friendly as Photshop's. For someone who is used to working in Photoshop, GIMP can be especially cumbersome.
Thankfully, there is a book that may be able to help:
GIMP is a free alternative to Adobe Photoshop with tons of professional-grade features. But with so many powerful tools and menu options, GIMP can be difficult to master. Whether you're struggling to get started or trying to master some of GIMP's more complex features, you'll find the answers you're looking for in The Book of GIMP.
The tutorials in the first half of the book walk you through essential GIMP skills, like resizing and cropping images, touching up spots and scratches, and customizing your work area. Illustrated, step-by-step instructions show you how to:
Improve the lighting and composition of images
Remove distortions and noise to make old and damaged photos look like new
Create stunning panoramas and digital collages using a series of photos
Make, edit, and export custom textures, logos, and animated GIFs
Work with selections, channels, and masks to edit images like a pro
Create colorful digital art, layer by layer
The book's second half offers a comprehensive reference to GIMP's many features, including color balancing, masks, filters, and plug-ins. You'll find tools described in unparalleled detail, with coverage of nearly every option and parameter.With illustrated tutorials and detailed references, The Book of GIMP is sure to become your one-stop guide to just about everything GIMP.
The black Spider Arca-Swiss Clamp from Spider Camera Holster is compatible with any Arca-type plate or bracket. Complete with two anti-twist pins to prevent slippage, this plate allows you to attach your camera to any Arca-style tripod mount or bracket. This plate works with other manufacturer's equipment such as Wimberley, Really Right Stuff and Kirk.
Compatible with Wimberley, Really Right Stuff, Kirk
Twist the pressure screw allowing the Spider Arca-Swiss Clamp's sliding jaws to release and become free to connect the camera to a tripod
Includes two anti-twist pins to prevent unthreading
Some New York Restaurants Banning Food Photography
A recent New York Times article explains why some of New York City's finest eating establishments are banning food photography.
"There are the foreign tourists who, despite their big cameras, tend to be very discreet. There are those who use a flash and annoy everyone around them. There are those who come equipped with gorillapods — those small, flexible tripods to use on their tables.
There are even those who stand on their chairs to shoot their plates from above. ...
Moe Issa, the owner of Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare, said he banned photography several months after opening when it became too much of a distraction to the other diners at his 18-seat restaurant."
01/23/2013 - Version 1.1.1 of DxO ViewPoint, the software solution entirely dedicated to correcting keystoning as well as deformations caused by the use of wide-angle lenses, fixes various minor problems caused by extreme perspective corrections.
Based on DxO Labs’ advanced geometrical corrections, DxO ViewPoint corrects the distortion of the subjects on the edges of images — known as “volume anamorphosis” — due to the use of short focal lengths (as with wide-angle lenses). DxO ViewPoint also lets users correct the most complex kinds of perspective problems, including keystoning, without having to resort to costly shift lenses. Each of these features includes advanced fine-tuning controls to achieve the highest correction precision.
DxO ViewPoint can be used as a standalone application for Mac and Windows, and as a plugin for Adobe® Photoshop® CS3, CS4, CS5, CS6, and Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 3 and 4.
This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO ViewPoint v1.0.
DateTime: 1/23/2013 10:17:37 AM CT Posted By: Sean
DxO FilmPack v3.2.3 Update Available
From DxO:
DxO FilmPack v3.2.3 expands its compatibility to include Adobe Photoshop Elements 11 and supports Windows 8
Five free new DxO FilmPack Expert Edition renderings created by Andrea Bagnasco
January 23, 2013 - DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO FilmPack v3.2.3 its vintage film simulation and creative rendering software for Mac and Windows. This update allows DxO FilmPack to expand its compatibility to include Adobe Photoshop Elements 11 and to officially support Windows 8.
Based on the advanced calibration technologies of DxO Labs, DxO FilmPack perfectly restores the authentic characteristics of color, contrast, saturation, and grain of several dozen legendary films. Twenty-five additional creative renderings and numerous processing tools allow photographers to explore endless creative possibilities.
Expanded compatibility
DxO FilmPack v3.2.3 functions in 32 and 64 bits as a standalone application. As a plugin, the software is compatible with:
Adobe Photoshop Elements 9, 10, 11 (32 et 64 bits)
Apple Aperture 3 (32 et 64 bits)
Now compatible with Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 11, DxO FilmPack v3.2.3 addresses an even wider number of people in love with photography.
Sharing emotions with the best photographers
DxO FilmPack's Export renderings feature allows photographers to save the parameters of their custom renderings and to easily share them with other users. It is also possible to use a style created by another user by downloading it from the renderings library.
DxO FilmPack has become a major element in the creative process for professional photographers. By integrating DxO FilmPack in their post-processing steps, photographers such as NyghtFalcon and Andrea Bagnasco ? both DxO Image Masters ? can express all their creativity and give their images a unique atmosphere. They are willing to share the emotional impact of their work by making their creative renderings exclusively available to the DxO FilmPack user community. To download these free original Expert Edition renderings, go to the dxo.com website.
Availability and prices
DxO FilmPack v3.2.3 for Mac and Windows comes in two editions - Essential and Expert - which differ in terms of the number of film renderings and features available. Both editions are available in the DxO Labs online store (shop.dxo.com) and at photo resellers at a discount through January 31, 2013:
USD:
DxO FilmPack 3 Essential Edition: : $49 instead of $79
DxO FilmPack 3 Expert Edition:: $99 instead of $129
EUR:
DxO FilmPack Essential Edition: : 49€ instead of 79€
DxO FilmPack Expert Edition:: 99€ instead of 129€
(Suggested retail prices, including VAT)
GBP:
DxO FilmPack 3 Essential Edition: : £39 instead of £59
DxO FilmPack 3 Expert Edition:: £79 instead of £99
(Suggested retail prices, including VAT)
This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO FilmPack 3.
Nikon Publishes Capture NX / Nik Color Efex Pro Compatibility Advisory
From Nikon Europe:
Nik Color Efex Pro for Capture NX 2
Shortly after the acquisition of NikSoftware by Google in September 2012, Nik ended sales of the Color Efex Pro plug-in for Nikon Capture software.
From the end of January 2013, Nikon Europe no longer distribute Nik Color Efex Pro for Capture NX 2 and it is no longer available from our online sales site. However, should you be a current user of Color Efex Pro, you can of course continue to use the plug-in with Capture NX 2. Please refer to the table below for version compatibility.
If you previously purchased Color Efex Pro for Capture NX 2 from Nikon and require further assistance or technical support, please contact us.
Nikon Software version
Nik Color Efex Pro version
Nikon software is not compatible
nik Color Efex Pro 4.0
Capture NX 2.3.0 or later
nik Color Efex Pro 3.0 64 Bit version for Capture NX2
DateTime: 1/22/2013 11:52:55 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Iridient Upgrades RAW Image Processor for Mac
From Iridient:
Iridient Developer is a powerful RAW image conversion application designed and optimized specifically for Mac OS X. Iridient Developer gives advanced photographers total control over every aspect of their digital camera's output, yet still provides easy drag and drop batch conversion and access to basic adjustments for the casual user. Thanks in part to Dave Coffin's work on the open source RAW decoding program dcraw, RAW developer is able to support files from over 400 RAW capable digital camera models!! Note that although we do use portions of dcraw for decoding RAW image files, essentially the entire image processing pipeline is completely unique to RAW Developer this includes the demosaicing algorithms used for all cameras based on RGB color filters (which is nearly all of them), all color management operations, all other processing adjustments, sharpening, noise reduction and final file format conversion.
Iridient Developer 2.0 changes:
New Features:
Support for lens corrections including embedded lens metadata from some cameras (Olympus) and RAW formats (DNG), lens profiles (LCP files), automatic and manual chromatic aberration correction and manual distortion correction.
Newly designed image thumbnail browser with support for live updates.
Support for star ratings.
Support for IPTC, XMP and EXIF v2.3 metadata pass through.
Support for most all standard, non-RAW, image formats including JPEG, TIFF, PNG and more.
Support for high dynamic range (HDR) image formats including OpenEXR and Radiance.
Optimized graphics, user interface controls and image rendering for high resolution Retina displays.
Enhanced full screen support including support for new full screen window controls introduced in 10.7 (Lion).
Code signed for support of Apple's Gatekeeper security introduced in 10.8 (Mountain Lion).
Support for touch gestures for zooming and scrolling preview.
Support added for the Canon 6D, Rebel T4i (650D, Kiss X6i), EOS-M, S110, G15 and SX50 HS.
Support added for the Nikon D5200, D600, P7700, 1 V2 and 1 J2.
Support added for the Sony NEX-6, NEX-5R, SLT-A99 and DSC-RX1.
Support added for the Olympus E-PL5, E-PM2 and XZ-2 iHS.
Support added for the Sigma DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill.
Support added for the Panasonic DMC-GH3, DMC-G5, DMC-LX7 and DMC-FZ200.
Support added for the Pentax K-5 II, K-5 IIs, K-30 and Q10.
Support added for the Samsung NX20, NX210, NX1000 and EX2F.
Support added for the Leica New S (S3), D-Lux 6 and V-Lux 4.
Support added for the Fuji F800EXR and XF1.
Improvements:
Improved preview display quality including support for deep color dithering on 10.7 (Lion) and later.
The LAB curves keyboard adjustment increments were made adjusted again now offering both smaller and larger increments through the option and shift+option key combos.
Improved processing of lens color shift metadata for Sigma SD1 and new DP1/2 Merrill models.
Refined default ICC color profiles for many camera models.
Numerous performance enhancements including incorporation of Apple's Grand Central Dispatch technology for better utilization of the latest multi-core Intel processors.
Improved parsing of various lens distance and lens metadata fields.
Added additional name information for some new lens models.
Bug Fixes:
Fixed an issue which would cause a crash when loading Fuji X-Pro1 images which had been converted to DNG format. This camera is not currently supported in either native RAF or DNG format.
Download the free demo of Iridient Developer 2.0 here.
DateTime: 1/22/2013 10:34:07 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Epson Announces Volume Production of New EVFs
From Epson:
New Epson Ultimicron Brings Benefits for Camera Enthusiasts
- Epson begins volume production of panel for electronic viewfinders -
- TOKYO, Japan, January 22, 2013 -
Seiko Epson Corporation ("Epson," TSE: 6724) today announced that it has begun volume production of its latest Ultimicron panel. These high-temperature polysilicon (HTPS) TFT color panels bring to life the electronic viewfinders used in mid- to high-end digital interchangeable lens system cameras. The new panel will be exhibited at Epson's booth at CP+ 2013 in Yokohama, Japan, from January 31 to February 3.
Measuring just 0.48 of an inch diagonally, the latest in the Ultimicron series offers XGA (1024 x 768) resolution in red, green and blue for a total of 2.36 megapixels. The new panel is equal in size to a 0.47-inch SVGA panel, but offers higher resolution. In addition, Epson has increased the surface luminance to 520 cd/m2, allowing photographers sufficient visibility in any environment, from the brightest sunlight to the darkness of evening.
The Ultimicron series is positioned to meet growing demand among camera enthusiasts of all levels and abilities for superb quality electronic viewfinders.
Advantages and features
Compact Small 0.48-inch diagonal screen contributes to compact, thin cameras
High resolution High pixel density with XGA resolution (1024 x RGB x 768, 2.36 megapixels)
No color breakup Use of a color filter ensures that it is not affected by the color breakup that can occur with fast-moving subjects and panning shots when using a field-sequential color system.
Bright Achieves brightness of 520 cd/m2
New panel specifications
Name
L3F04X-80300C
LCD type
TN mode, organic alignment layer
Color display system
Color filter (RGB stripe)
Effective pixels
1024 x RGB x 768 (XGA)
Panel size (diagonal)
0.48 inch (1.2 cm)
Pixel pitch
9.6 μm (3.2 x RGB) x 9.6 μm
Color space
92% of sRGB
Backlight
Yes
Surface luminance
520 cd/m2
Displayable colors
Approx. 16.77 million colors
Electronic viewfinders and Epson's Ultimicron
Electronic viewfinders are employed mainly as the finders - the small windows used to view the subject of a photo - in digital single-lens reflex cameras and camcorders using LCD screens. Epson's Ultimicron electronic viewfinders have the advantages of both high resolution and of being highly compact. This makes it easy for manufacturers to make the camera compact, and for users to focus the camera when taking pictures.
Camera using an Epson Ultimicron electronic viewfinder.
Nikon Image Sharing Service Rebranded as "Nikon Image Space"
From Nikon:
TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the January 28 launch of "NIKON IMAGE SPACE ", a new image sharing and storage space.
"NIKON IMAGE SPACE" top page
"NIKON IMAGE SPACE" is a free online service for sharing images open not only to users of Nikon digital cameras, but anyone who enjoys taking photos or recording movies.
This service makes it easy for camera enthusiasts to upload, view, organize, and share their photos and movies of once-in-a-lifetime moments with greater convenience through sequential operation, which is achieved by high speed operation of the system, an intuitive user interface (UI), a clear window layout, and a simple operation flow.
Nikon has offered its image sharing and storage service, my Picturetown, since August 2007. my Picturetown has been used by a great many people in the world either for free of charge or for a fee with some special privileges. However, with a complete overhaul of the service, we are taking this opportunity to change the name from my Picturetown to "NIKON IMAGE SPACE."*
*my Picturetown user account information and images will be automatically transferred to "NIKON IMAGE SPACE".
Nikon will continue to offer users ways to enjoy their digital images through "NIKON IMAGE SPACE".
"NIKON IMAGE SPACE": http://nikonimagespace.com
*The site will be available on January 28, 2013 at 20:00 Japan time.Further information on "NIKON IMAGE SPACE" will be presented at the Nikon Imaging Japan booth at the CP+ 2013 camera and photo imaging show to be held January 31–February 3, 2013 at the Pacifico Yokohama (Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan).
"NIKON IMAGE SPACE" primary features
Two types of free accounts "NIKON IMAGE SPACE" offers users a choice between two types of free accounts. Basic accounts are available to anyone. Users of Nikon digital cameras have the additional option of upgrading to a Special account, using a dedicated application to verify Nikon digital cameras. While both types of accounts are free of charge, the maximum storage space is 2 GB for Basic accounts and 20 GB for Special accounts. Special accounts also offer more advanced functions, including the ability to apply a password when sharing images, and a function that restricts image download.
Improved usability Significant changes in window design make sequential image operations, from upload to viewing to organizing to sharing, smoother. In addition, a relaxing background color has been adopted for a more pleasing image display, and image layout has been adjusted for ease of use.
Greater performance as a Web system Operation has been improved with faster system processing capabilities. "NIKON IMAGE SPACE" offers smoother, more natural operation with faster image upload and download, as well as faster response when images are manipulated.
Greater collaboration with social networking sites Greater collaboration with social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter expands the possibilities for sharing photos of your own special moments, and posting images from "NIKON IMAGE SPACE" is easier than ever.
*Facebook® is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc. *Products, brand names and service names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Flickr user "RawSniper1" has figured out an ingenious way to keep up with his lens cap when it isn't on his camera - he simply snaps it to his camera strap using two pieces of Legos.
I'm not sure how durable this solution is, but it is certainly one of the cheapest solutions I've seen!
The National Geographic Society, founded on January 13, 1888, is celebrating its 125th anniversary. Since its first issue in October of that year, National Geographic has played a pivotal role in supporting contemporary adventurers, explorers, and conservationalists - and inspiring countless more.
Some of the world's most recognizable photographs came from the pages of National Geographic. Its impact on the world of photography, as well as its contributions, are immeasurable.
Based in Sweden, the Creative Light company launched in 2009 with the aim of providing moderately priced light modifiers as well as lighting education to professional photographers.
Site off-line The Creative Light is now closed since January 8th 2013 and the brand is discontinued. We would like to thank our clients and followers for all their support. /Creative Light.
Below is an educational video from the company's launch:
$200 Instant Rebate on the Nikon D800 and D800E DSLR Cameras
The Nikon D800 DSLR Camera is available for $2,796.95 after $200.00 instant rebate at B&H, Adorama and Amazon with all retailers offering free shipping 2% Rewards.
The same rebate applies to the Nikon D800E DSLR Camera which is available for $3,096.95 at B&H, Adorama and Amazon with all retailers offering free shipping and 2% Rewards.
According to Canon, the EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens is not compatible with extenders. Not fully compatible is correct, but ... extenders can indeed be used with this lens as proven by the 420mm and 600mm ISO 12233 chart results in this review.
If the 28-300 L is zoomed out to 50mm or longer, the rear element retracts into the lens far enough for the Canon 1.4x and 2x extenders to physically mount onto the lens. Once installed, zooming in to 50mm will result in physical contact between the front of the extender (likely the rubber ring surrounding the glass lens element) and the rear element of the lens. You obviously want to avoid this.
You will also likely want to avoid the image quality that the Canon EF 2x III Extender combo delivers at 600mm. The results are not pretty. At 600mm, this is an f/11 max aperture lens that will not AF even on a 1-Series body (tried it - AF didn't work). Better, but still not impressive are the results with the Canon EF 1.4x III Extender at 420mm where this is an f/8 max aperture lens. Autofocusing with the 1.4x attached is very, very slow and very frequently fails completely on the EOS 1Ds III being used for testing.
The extender and lens combo's focal length reported properly in EXIF, but the aperture did not.
Jessops, with many stores and a long heritage had a strong impact in promoting photography to the general public. Although they were a major competitor of Calumet, the fact that they enabled many photographers to handle products within a showroom environment across so many cities in the UK contributed to the incredible increase in the popularity and use of digital SLR cameras in recent years. We of course have the greatest sympathy and respect for the staff, and wish them well in the future. For Jessops’ customers who have been left with unfulfilled orders or issues with manufacturers’ warranty repairs we also sympathise.
With regard to the latter, we would like to offer any Jessops customer who needs to return a product to a manufacturer under warranty for repair the opportunity to use one of our eight nationwide showrooms. The store will handle the dispatch and return along with the necessary paperwork. Please contact your closest store if you wish to discuss taking advantage of this service. We guarantee not to charge any administration fee for this facility.
Official Presidential Portrait Taken with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III
In 2009, official White House photographer Pete Souza made history when he created the first presidential portrait ever created with a digital camera (a Canon EOS 5D Mark II).
i1 Professional product owners automatically benefit from i1Profiler v1.4 improvements including new scanner profiling
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., (January 15, 2013) – X-Rite, Incorporated, the world leader in color management, measurement and communication technologies, announces the latest enhancements to i1Profiler, the next generation professional color management software. i1Profiler offers an unprecedented level of flexibility and features a number of unique color management capabilities. And now with the version 1.4 update, i1Profiler includes scanner profiling, the latest OS support, and several other improvements. Current i1Profiler users will receive this software update for free.
“These new i1Profiler software improvements bring even more functionality and workflow improvements for X-Rite’s professional i1 color management products,” said Thomas Kunz, X-Rite’s Market Manager, Imaging. “Current i1 professional product owners will benefit from an automatic free software update and new i1 professional customers can be sure they will receive the most up-to-date profiling software that now includes easy scanner profiling.”
The latest release of i1Profiler software features basic and advanced modes for professionally calibrated and profiled monitors (including presets for video production workflows), projectors, scanners and printers. Scanner functionality is now available in i1Photo Pro 2, i1Publish Pro 2, i1Publish and all upgrade packages.
Key i1Profiler v1.4 improvements include:
Scanner Profiling Users simply scan the target to generate a high quality custom ICC profile. The software will automatically detect and crop the target. It supports the following targets:
ColorChecker Classic
ColorChecker Digital SG
Reflective IT 8.7/2
Transmissive 4x5 and 35mm IT 8.7/1
OS Support Update i1Profiler 1.4 now supports the following Operating Systems:
MacOS X 10.6.x, 10.7.x and 10.8x (with the latest updates installed)
Microsoft Windows®: XP® 32 bit, Vista® 32 or 64 bit, Windows 7 32 or 64 bit, Windows 8® 32 or 64 bit (with latest service pack installed)
In addition to the above improvements, i1Profiler 1.4 also includes additional CGATS and other minor workflow improvements, plus several maintenance fixes.
Availability i1Profiler 1.4 is available for immediate download from xrite.com and xritephoto.com websites. If a current owner has auto update activated, they will automatically receive the update next time they launch the software.
Nikon Professional Services has just published "Following the Call of the Wild," an article featuring professional nature photographer Florian Schulz. Schulz's images have appeared in publications such as National Geographic, BBC Wildlife, and GEO.
Schulz enumerates the challenges of shooting in varied climates and recounts his experiences with the Nikon D600 DSLR camera. Be sure to check out the video (located in the the gallery section) where Schulz describes shooting polar bears for National Geographic.
Debuting with an MSRP of $2,099.00, the Canon EOS 6D DSLR Camera is now consistently available for under $2,000.00. See below for special bundle deals. The going rate for an EOS 6D Kit has also dropped and is aided by a $200.00 instant rebate from Canon that's good through Feb 2.
DateTime: 1/17/2013 12:00:20 PM CT Posted By: Sean
Transcend Announces Copy Protected Memory Cards
From Transcend:
Safeguard Your Files Against Unauthorized Copying with Transcend’s Copy Protected Memory Cards
Transcend Information, Inc. (Transcend®), a worldwide leader in storage and multimedia products, today announced the launch of its SD/microSD memory card copy protection solutions. Partially-protected and partially-free areas, read-only CD emulation, customized device security, excellent compatibility and high capacity are some of the features that make Transcend’s Copy Protection SD/microSD cards ideal for use in OEM applications and distributing multimedia files.
Protect Pre-loaded Multimedia Files For publishers of audio or video files, or educational institutions looking to distribute course material to students, SD and microSD memory cards present a portable and cost effective way to deliver digital content. Transcend’s Copy Protection SD/microSD cards ensure the safety of valuable intellectual property by allowing access to media while preventing end users from making unauthorized copies. For added value, any space not utilized by pre-loaded data can be freely used as a normal SD card. When the protected data is deleted, the previously occupied capacity will be released as free space. Another available option is to make the entire SD/microSD card read-only so that end users cannot write to, modify or delete any part of the card capacity; only executing pre-loaded content is allowed in this optional configuration.
Custom Card Reader to Control Access In view of data protection, Transcend’s SD/microSD cards are available in a bundle pack with Transcend’s USB 3.0 RDF5 card reader that acts as the only key able to unlock the card, and therefore eliminate any potential threat should the data fall into the wrong hands. Data can only be accessed when the SD/microSD card is inserted into the customized RDF5 card reader and connected to a computer. For an extra layer of security, SD/microSD cards can be pre-loaded with copy protected media and combined with the custom RDF5 card reader. As a result, individuals, schools, banks, the government, military and police personnel, software developers, etc. can rest assured that their sensitive data is fully protected against illegal duplication.
Host Device Authentication The compact dimensions and multi-platform compatibility of SD and microSD memory cards provide manufacturers of small form-factor devices with greater design flexibility and cost savings. Perfect for use in OEM applications such as portable multimedia devices and GPS navigation systems, Transcend’s Copy Protection SD/microSD cards can be customized with a card ID that is locked to a vendor’s specific host device. This will restrict use of the card to only the device to which the card is locked.
I selected a batch of images captured on my Florida photography trip to share with you. This gallery is mostly water and birds, two subjects that Florida is well known for:
DateTime: 1/16/2013 11:13:04 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Adobe Photoshop 13.0.4 (Macintosh) Update for CS6 Available
From Adobe:
January 15, 2013 For convenience and reliability, we highly recommend that you apply this update directly from within Photoshop. To do so, choose Help > Updates in Photoshop CS6 and apply all of the updates listed under Adobe Photoshop CS6 in the Adobe Application Manager.
The Adobe Photoshop 13.0.4 update enables support for new HiDPI displays on the Macintosh platform for a dramatic improvement in image fidelity and resolution. This update applies to all languages of Adobe Photoshop CS6.
Ensure that the folder on your hard drive containing Photoshop is named "Adobe Photoshop CS6."
Double-click the "AdobePatchInstaller" application. If the updater reports that it cannot find the application to update, uninstall Photoshop CS6, and then reinstall the application (using the default folder name "Adobe Photoshop CS6"). To uninstall Photoshop, navigate to the "Applications/Utilites/Adobe Installers" folder and run "Uninstall Adobe Photoshop CS6" to remove the original installation of Photoshop. Once the removal is complete, reinstall Photoshop, and then run the updater.
DateTime: 1/16/2013 10:16:07 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Samyang Sponsors Aurora Expedition
From Samyang:
January 17th begins a photographic and scientific expedition through the Arctic Circle organized by Polish Association of Amateur Astronomers and astronomy forum AstroCD. The point of the expedition is to observe, photograph and study aurora borealis in the area of Tromso in Norway. Equipment sponsorship is provided by Samyang's european lenses distributor.
Research project Samyang Aurora Expedition will take place between January 17 - 21. The expedition team of ten astronomers and photographers from the Polish Association of Amateur Astronomers of Katowice will conduct intensive studies of Earth's magnetosphere and aurora borealis appearance.
Direct report of the trip and photographs will be available on Samyang Aurora Expedition blog: www.aurora.samyang.pl
DxO Optics Pro v8.1.2 supports three new cameras and surpasses the milestone of 10,000 available DxO Optics Modules
Supports the Canon EOS 6D, the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX1, and the Nikon 1 V2
January 16, 2013 - DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v8.1.2 for Mac and Windows, the new version of its image processing software of reference for all demanding photographers. This update allows DxO Optics Pro 8 to support the Canon EOS 6D and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX1 full-format cameras (Elite Edition only), as well as the Nikon 1 V2.
Based on a unique approach of prior calibration in the laboratories of DxO Labs, DxO Optics Pro 8 includes numerous powerful and automatic RAW and JPEG image-processing tools. DxO Optics Pro 8 offers the most advanced optical corrections on the market, the best tool for automatically adjusting contrast and light, and precise color management. Its unrivaled performance and its intuitive interface provide a smooth and fast workflow.
10,000 DxO Optics Modules available for exceptional optical corrections
DxO Optics Pro v8.1.2 benefits from the continuous addition of DxO Optics Modules. More than a hundred new camera/lens combinations have been added to the library, supporting additional Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Sony, Tamron and Tokina lenses for Canon, Nikon and Sony cameras.
DxO Optics Pro achieved the goal it set in early 2012 to have 10,000 DxO Optics Modules available by the end of 2012. Developed in the laboratory using an exclusive calibration process, DxO Optics Modules contain tens of thousands of data points about the intrinsic characteristics and flaws of each camera and lens. This database, unique in the entire world, allows DxO Optics Pro to automatically correct all the optical flaws in RAW and JPEG images – distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, and lens softness – with an unrivaled level of quality. Discover our laboratory!
The opening of a new lab in Seattle in fall 2012 has strengthened DxO Labs capacity in terms of calibrations and measurements. Now with six laboratories located in Europe and the United States, DxO Labs is looking to double its production rate of DxO Optics Modules in 2013.
This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for photographers who purchased a DxO Optics Pro 7 license on or after September 1, 2012. Other users can take advantage of a special discount on this upgrade through January 31, 2013 by going directly through their customer account.
Caveat Emptor: While this deal has been listed by eBay as a "Daily Deal," and the seller's feedback rating is high (99.7%), it is worth noting that they only have 900+ feedback. The item is also shipped from Hong Kong - meaning this is probably a grey market item and may not qualify for USA warranty repairs through Canon.
Nikon D600 DSLR Camera - $1,769.00 (Compare at $1,996.95)
eBay (via qd_us) has the Nikon D600 DSLR Camera available for $1,769.00 with free shipping. Compare at $1,996.95.
Caveat Emptor: While this deal has been listed by eBay as a "Daily Deal," and the seller's feedback rating is high (99.7%), it is worth noting that they only have 900+ feedback. The item is also shipped from Hong Kong - meaning this is probably a grey market item and may not qualify for USA warranty repairs through Canon.
Canon U.S.A. To Sponsor the 2013 Sundance Film Festival
From Canon:
PARK CITY, UT, January 15, 2013 - Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today that they will support the Sundance Institute as a Sustaining Sponsor of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. Held in Park City, Utah from January 17-27, 2013, the Sundance Film Festival is the premier showcase of independent film with a slate of 200 feature films, documentaries, shorts, New Frontier films, installations, performances, panel discussions and music events attended by an estimated 50,000 people.
Among the slate at this year's Sundance Film Festival are Lucy Walker's documentary The Crash Reel and Sean Fine's film Life According to Sam, both shot with the Cinema EOS C300. Additionally, a few of the other projects to be screened at the Festival that were shot using Canon products include A River Changes Course, Blood Brother, Catnip: Egress to Oblivion, Dirty Wars, The Roper, and Who Is Dayani Crystal?
As a Sustaining Sponsor of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, Canon will offer filmmakers the opportunity to touch and try a lineup of its Cinema EOS professional products, including the Cinema EOS C500 4K Digital Cinema Camera, Cinema EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera, Cinema EOS C100 Digital Video Camera, EOS-1D C4K DSLR Cinema Camera, as well as the EOS 5D Mark III DSLR Camera and select Canon lenses, including the brand new CN-E14mm T3.1 L F and CN-E135mm T2.2 L F lenses. These products–designed to offer storytellers a new set of tools for capturing compelling visuals and emotional reality on screen–will be on display from Thursday, January 17 - Saturday, January 19, 2013 outside of the Film Office at Festival Headquarters located at the Park City Marriott (1895 Sidewinder Dr).
Canon will also host the "Canon Celebrates Cinematography" cocktail event on Sunday, January 20, 2013 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at 614 Main St. Hosted by cinematographer Russell Carpenter, ASC (Jobs) and director/producer R.J. Cutler (The World According to Dick Cheney), the event will bring together established and emerging filmmakers, producers, and talent to honor and recognize the work of the cinematographers of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. The event will also feature a special partnership between Variety and Canon to recognize Festival cinematographers through the capture of cinematographer portraits to be shared on Variety.com.
Lastly, Canon will present a special presentation "Canon Spotlights Cinematography" at the New Frontier Microcinema at The Yard (1251 Kearns Blvd) on Monday, January 21 from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This event is free and open to Festival Credential holders and the public as space allows. The afternoon will feature a special screening of shorts created with groundbreaking Cinema EOS Technology, including:
Bart - Directed by Richard Landes and cinematography by Peter Simonite The big screen premiere of the narrative short shot on the new Cinema EOS C100
The Nightshift Belongs to The Stars - Directed by Edoardo Ponti and cinematography by Ferran Paredes A short film based on an original story by Erri De Luca and shot on the Cinema EOS C300
Man & Beast - Directed by Dante Ariola and cinematography by Jeff Cronenweth Inspired by true life events, the short was filmed in 4K resolution with a Cinema EOS C500
Immediately following the screening, Canon Film and Television Production Advisor Tim Smith will moderate an in depth discussion with Peter Simonite and Edoardo Ponti, as well as cinematographers Andre Lascaris (Ron & Bryce Dallas Howard's when you find me) and Alex Buono (Saturday Night Live) about their filmmaking process and how Cinema EOS products helped to bring their stories to life.
DateTime: 1/15/2013 9:36:03 AM CT Posted By: Bryan
Canon Canada Opens ‘Image Square,’ the Canon Experience Centre in Calgary, Alberta
From Canon:
First centre of its kind showcases the best of Canon photography and print imaging technology in a hands-on, experiential environment
CALGARY, Alberta, January 15, 2013 - Canon Canada Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions celebrating its 40th Anniversary, today announced the opening of Image Square, the Canon Experience Centre - a unique destination where visitors can interact with the latest Canon technology and benefit from the expertise of photography and business consultants.
Located at Eighth Avenue Place in downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canon Image Square is a ground-breaking, innovative and technologically-advanced space specifically designed to encourage exploration and discovery. Visitors will learn how Canon products and solutions can help them capture their experiences, enhance their memories, and increase their productivity, at home, at work, and at play.
Canon Image Square is open to the public beginning today at 12:00pm.
“Canon Image Square represents a true first for Canada, and it sets the standard for how our industry interacts with customers by offering an opportunity to experience first-hand our state-of-the-art products and technology,” said Kevin Ogawa, President and CEO of Canon Canada. “We are committed to providing our customers and prospective customers with the best experience with our products, and that includes allowing them to touch and try our products before they purchase.”
As part of the Canon Image Square vision, expert staff will direct visitors to purchase through authorized local dealers or direct from Canon.
Canon Image Square features dynamic displays and demonstrations that give visitors a true look at how Canon products work. This innovative approach to the consumer experience includes:
Expert staff dedicated to answering questions, sharing tips, and finding information for visitors.
Full-motion thematic settings and sculptural exhibits where visitors can test point-and-shoot and digital SLR cameras, a range of lenses and accessories, and a selection of printers.
A touch screen media wall where visitors can post and interact with their own images.
Interactive discovery tables where visitors can select an image, learn about its features, and find directions to the related product station.
A fully-operational showroom exhibiting a range of Canon print production devices and solutions for business needs.
A photo studio outfitted with professional Canon digital SLR cameras, Speedlight flashes, and photo production software.
A classroom-style learning space where expert staff will conduct seminars, projector demos, presentations, and Canon College photography classes.
Photo gallery curated by 500px, featuring the works of Alberta-based photographers who use Canon equipment to bring remarkable images to life.
Canon Image Square occupies approximately 6,600 square feet on the ground floor of Eighth Avenue Place, a pre-certified LEED Platinum building. Canon Image Square is accessible off 8th Avenue as well as through the building’s main concourse.
Nikon D800 DSLR Camera - $2,668.81 Shipped (Compare at $2,996.95)
eBay (via BigValueInc) has the Nikon D800 DSLR Camera available for $2,668.81 with free shipping. Compare at $2,996.95.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.2%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
Canon U.S.A. Raises Awareness About Counterfeit Accessories For Digital Cameras and Camcorders
From Canon:
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 15, 2013 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, has rolled out a consumer-safety initiative that will promote awareness of a consumer electronics industry-wide issue: the risks of using counterfeit accessories for digital cameras and camcorders, especially batteries and chargers. Counterfeit products are fake replicas of the real products, designed to take advantage of the superior value of the real product. These fake accessories are produced in a manner that is increasingly more difficult for average consumers to identify. Purchase of these products can lead to potentially dangerous results. Unlike genuine Canon products, counterfeit accessories may not meet government and industry safety standards and may overheat, smoke, melt, ignite and may cause bodily injury and property damage.
In support of this initiative, a digital campaign, with the tagline, "Play it safe. Power your Canon with Canon Power" was launched on January 8, advising consumers to avoid counterfeits by purchasing products through established retail channels. In addition, the Canon USA Website has been enlisted to educate consumers on the Canon batteries and chargers most frequently counterfeited and to provide helpful tips to spot them.
"Canon takes safety seriously and, as good corporate citizens, we want to inform and educate so that consumers are aware of the risks counterfeit products pose," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. "We will be rolling out an initiative over the next few months, encouraging consumers to help play it safe with genuine Canon power when making an investment in a camera or camcorder and its accessories, so that they may continue to enjoy the quality experience they expect from us."
Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions
Support for the D5200, and Nikon 1 models J3 and S1 has been added.
The following issues with movies recorded using the Nikon 1 V2 with White Balance set to Underwater have been resolved.
Thumbnails for movies transferred with Nikon Transfer 2 using a card reader are not displayed in the thumbnail list area.
When Metadata is selected from the Edit palette, information other than that in File Info 1 is displayed.
Modifications enabled with Ver. 2.7.0 (included):
Modifications that apply to both the Windows and Macintosh versions
Support for the Nikon 1 V2 has been added.
The AF Noise Reduction function, which reduces noise produced by auto focusing during movie recording and picked by the built-in microphone, has been added.
The AF Noise Reduction function is available only for the following devices:
Camera: The D3200 (released in May 2012) and later digital-SLR cameras.
Lens:
AF-S NIKKOR and AF-I NIKKOR lenses
AF-S/AF-I teleconverters (AF-S/AF-I lenses are required)
When white balance of RAW images captured with the P7700 was adjusted using Use Gray Point, specified point did not turn gray. This issue has been resolved.
Additional modifications to the Windows version
Support for the 64bit- and 32bit- versions of Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro and Windows 8 Enterprise has been added.
When a large number of images were transferred with Nikon Transfer 2 using a card reader, Nikon Transfer 2 quit unexpectedly on rare occasions. This issue has been resolved.
Additional modifications to the Macintosh version
Support for IEEE 1394 connection for the D1, D1H, and D1X has been eliminated.
The following issues with combined use of Mac OS X version 10.6 and Nikon Transfer 2 have been resolved.
When the camera and computer are connected and the camera is turned off after Nikon Transfer 2 is launched, Nikon Transfer 2 quits unexpectedly on rare occasions.
When a large number of images on a memory card are transferred using a card reader, the transfer is terminated unexpectedly on rare occasions.
First Looks at Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Image Quality
ISO 12233 resolution chart, distortion and vignetting test results, along with specs and measurements, have been added to the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Review page.
Here are some of my initial comparative thoughts based on multiple copies tested:
You will see very low distortion from the 24-70 f/4 L IS relative to similar zoom lenses. Noticeably less than from the 24-105 f/4 L IS - significantly less at 24mm. Landscape photographers shooting over a flat horizon (such as water) will especially appreciate the difference at 24mm, though the 24-70 f/4 L IS still has some barrel distortion.
The 24-70 f/4 L IS is nearly void of CA (Chromatic Aberration) until the longer end of the focal length range where mild CA becomes apparent at 70mm. The 24-70 f/4 L IS has noticeably less CA than the 24-105 f/4 L IS at the wide end, but more at 70mm.
The 24-70 f/4 L IS is similar to the 24-70 f/2.8 L II in regards to both CA and distortion.
The 24-70 f/4 L IS has less vignetting than the 24-105 f/4 L IS at the wide end at f/4, but more at the long end. By f/5.6, the two lenses are close in this regard. The 24-70 f/2.8 L II, with its 1-stop wider aperture, has the comparable-aperture vignetting advantage until about f/8 where the two are nearly equal.
If you are shooting at f/11, the 24-70 f/4 L IS, 24-105 f/4 L IS and 24-70 f/2.8 L II lenses produce essentially equal sharpness. The 24-105 has the longest focal length range to its advantage in this comparison. The 24-70 f/2.8 L II lacks IS.
At 24mm with a wide open aperture, the 24-70 f/4 L IS bests the 24-105 L IS in sharpness by a modest amount. The 24-70 f/4 L IS gets softer (especially in the mid and peripheral image circle) by 50mm f/4 where the lens performs its worst.
That this lens performs its worst at a mid-focal length vs. an extremity focal length is unusual. Since most people shoot their highest percentage of images at the focal length range extremes of a lens, the 24-70 L IS weakness is perhaps well placed. Roger at LensRentals.com has confirmed the 50mm weakness in his vast stock of this lens.
The 24-105 L delivers a sharper image at 50mm f/4. Sharpness improvement at 70mm brings the 24-70 f/4 L IS back up to near equality with the 24-105 L. These two lenses perform more similarly at f/5.6 and at f/8, results from these two lenses are nearly comparable. Again, the results are similar at f/11.
Overall, the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM Lens appears to be a great lens, but ... perhaps overpriced with the bargain-priced Canon EF 24-105 f/4 L IS Lens remaining available.
Jessops customers who bought cameras before the chain went under last week have been told they will not receive their orders, or a refund.
On Friday, the chain closed all remaining 187 shops with the loss of 1,370 jobs as the 78-year-old business ceased trading, just days after falling into administration.
Five of the 192 shops that were trading at the end of 2012, closed after Christmas.
A further '150' people are expected to be made jobless at the company's head office in Leicester, according to accountants PwC who are acting as administrators.
A statement posted on the Jessops website warns: ‘Customers who have ordered and paid for all or part of their stock – either in store or online – will not receive their stock purchase.
‘Customers who have paid using credit cards should contact their credit card company to try and seek resolution to this matter.'
Customers who are owed money by Jessops – such as in the form of unredeemed gift cards and vouchers, or courses paid for in advance – will also lose out.
They have been told to register as an 'unsecured creditor' with the administrators, using the PwC website at www.pwc.co.uk/jessops
Administrators have set up a Jessops Group Limited helpline which can be reached on 0113 289 4422.
Meanwhile, Nikon has moved to reassure customers that it is ‘actively working with administrators and plans to undertake all outstanding repairs as quickly as possible'.
In a statement, the firm added: ‘Nikon UK can confirm that we will also be honouring any repairs under Jessops' Photo + extended warranty scheme.' For details call 0330 123 0928.
To read the administrators' advice to Jessops customers click HERE.
DateTime: 1/14/2013 11:17:21 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Capture One Pro 7.0.2 Service Release Available for Download
From Phase One:
Improves Stability, Adds Support for New Cameras
COPENHAGEN, January 14, 2013 — Phase One has released Capture One Pro 7.0.2 for immediate download. This service release has focused on solving bugs reported by customers, strengthening overall stability, and adding support for new models of Canon, Olympus, Fujifilm and Sony cameras, and includes new tethered support for Canon EOS 6D and Canon EOS M cameras.
New preliminary camera support includes:
Fujifilm X-Pro1
Fujifilm XE-1
Fujifilm XF1
Canon EOS 6D
Canon EOS M
Sony SLT-A57
Sony NEX-5R
Olympus XZ-2 iHS
Canon EOS-1D X and EOS 5D Mark III (sRAW and mRAW)
Numerous bug fixes have improved stability, including support for Canon tethering on Apple OS X 10.8, and improved support for pen tablets on Windows 8.
Other changes in Capture One Pro 7.0.2 include aligning the use of image counts in the library tool: no counts for smart albums on Mac and no image counts shown for Groups and Projects on Windows.
Capture One Pro 7 is a raw converter and workflow software which enables photographers to reduce the time and effort required to deliver stunning ready-to-use images with excellent color and detail. Capture One Pro 7.0.2 is available as a free download for Capture One Pro 7 customers.
DateTime: 1/14/2013 10:22:40 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Mastering The Illusion of Perfection (with Photoshop) Webinar
From Photoshelter:
Mastering The Illusion of Perfection with Photo Retoucher Amy Dresser
Amy Dresser is one of the industry's leading photo retouchers and illustrators. Her clients have ranged from editorial (TIME, Allure) to advertising (Barbie, Pepsi, Target) to individual photographers (Jill Greenberg, Jeremy Cowart).
In this live webinar on Tuesday, January 15th at 4pm EDT Amy will take us behind the Photoshop layered curtain of her work, and discuss her thought process, technique, and end result.
Note: Only the first 1,000 registrants will be able to attend this live webinar. After that, registration will close. We will post a video recording on The PhotoShelter Blog, but sign up if you want to attend on January 15th.
In 2009, when Kodak announced that production of Kodachrome film would be coming to an end, legendary photographer Steve McCurry saw an opportunity, and asked if the company would give him the final roll. Given his reputation and the many famed photographs he’s taken on Kodachrome, it’s no surprise Kodak said yes.
As a tribute to this final roll, a crew from National Geographic decided to follow McCurry and document the momentous last 36 frames that would ever be shot on that film — the video above is the result.
The video is much more than just a chronicling of how McCurry spent that last roll of film. As with any great artist, when the NatGeo crew put McCurry on camera he inevitably managed to spout some phenomenal advice. It really makes you appreciate digital (or perhaps miss film) to see McCurry being so careful with his shots, making sure that each one did the Kodachrome roll justice.
In reality, the days already came and went when that roll was shot and developed; the last lab to process Kodachrome stopped at the end of 2010 and you can see the gallery of those final shots on McCurry’s website. But this documentary acts as yet another farewell to a film so loved there are plans for a movie about its demise.
DateTime: 1/13/2013 11:54:46 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Canon EOS 1D X DSLR Camera - $5,936.02 Shipped ($6,728.99)
eBay (via BigValueInc) has the Canon EOS 1D X DSLR Camera available for $5,936.02 with free shipping. Compare at $6,728.99.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.2%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
Join us for a webinar on Exploring Photographic Composition
Photographic composition is a key element of photography. To master composition, one must learn the ability to see compositions as shapes, lines, forms, masses, etc., and not just as recognizable objects. You must be able to visualize how objects function as forms in space under light, and how they will relate to a two dimensional composition. This webinar gives an overview of the use of photographic composition in landscape and still life photography, drawing examples from the work of masters of photography, as well as our own Datacolor master photographers.
Join us, Tuesday, January 15th from 3PM-4PM EST, as Datacolor Experts David Saffir and C. David Tobie guide you through the key elements of photographic composition and how they interact to make a unified whole.
An interactive Q&A will take place throughout the webinar to answer any questions you may have.
One lucky webinar guest will win a free Spyder4PRO
Title: Exploring Photographic Composition: Landscape and Still Life Date: Tuesday, January 15, 2013 Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
Nikon Makes Limited Repair Parts Available for Purchase
Early last year, Nikon published a letter directed at all unauthorized repair facilities stating that "...Nikon has decided that it will no longer make repair parts available for purchase by repair facilities that have not been authorized by Nikon Inc. to perform camera repairs."
A backlash enused as once cheap and simple repairs became much more costly for consumers who were forced to ship their cameras to one of Nikon's limited number of authorized repair facilities.
Nikon has since made some consessions - and is now selling a limited number of repair parts directly to the general public.
Parts available for puchase include (but vary depending on camera model):
DateTime: 1/11/2013 12:36:00 PM CT Posted By: Sean
Canon Receives 2012 Technology & Engineering Emmy Award
From Canon:
Mr. Masaya Maeda, Chief Executive, Image Communication Products Operation, Canon Inc., is proud to have Canon acknowledged along with peers, Sony, Red, and Arri in receiving a Technical Emmy award for advancements in CMOS sensor technology for film and television production.
DateTime: 1/11/2013 12:16:10 PM CT Posted By: Sean
Canon Awarded 3,174 U.S. Patents in 2012
From Canon:
Canon tops among Japanese companies in U.S. patent rankings for eighth consecutive year
TOKYO, January 11, 2013 — Canon Inc. ranked first among Japanese companies and third overall for the number of U.S. patents awarded in 2012, according to the latest ranking of preliminary patent results issued by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services on January 10, 2013.
Canon actively promotes the globalization of its business and places great value on obtaining patents overseas, carefully adhering to a patent-filing strategy that pursues patents in essential countries and regions while taking into consideration the business strategies and technology and product trends unique to each location. Among these, the United States, with its many high-tech companies and large market scale, represents a particularly important region in terms of business expansion and technology alliances.
Canon U.S. patent ranking among Japanese companies 2005 - 2012
Year
Ranking*
No. of patents
2012
1st (3rd)
3,174
2011
1st (3rd)
2,813
2010
1st (4th)
2,551
2009
1st (4th)
2,200
2008
1st (3rd)
2,107
2007
1st (3rd)
1,983
2006
1st (3rd)
2,367
2005
1st (2nd)
1,828
* Number in parenthesis represents Canon’s ranking among all companies
Canon prizes its corporate DNA of placing a high priority on technology. And with regard to research and development results, the company actively promotes the acquisition of patent rights in accordance with the management direction of the Canon Group and technology trends while conducting thorough pre-application searches to raise the quality of applications. Through close cooperation between Canon’s technology and intellectual property divisions, the company aims to improve its technological capabilities while further enhancing its intellectual property rights.
Giottos Introduces Silk Road YTL Series Tripods with Y-Tubing
From Giottos:
Giotto’s launches patented brand new design for its core tripod range
Just when you think you’ve seen it all in the world of tripods – Giotto’s has launched a brand new range of tripods featuring a totally unique, patented design – enabling a 30% space saving while maintaining full strength, stability and weight capacity.
The NEW Giotto’s Silk Road YTL Series replaces the entire range of Giotto’s MTL tripods and features a new Y-shaped centre column, meaning a super slim 30% space saving when the tripod is packed down.
This uniquely shaped centre column brings a totally new dimension to tripod design – allowing legs to be stowed in a much more compact way, without the ‘bulk’ of tripods using traditional design.
Giotto’s is continually challenging the dimensions of photographic tripods – following on from the huge success of its award winning Vitruvian range – which adopted a space saving inverted design when the tripod is folded down.
The new Silk Road range is named after the historical network of interlinking trade routes covering East, South & Western Asia, parts of North & east Africa and Europe. New technologies were often traded along this route too – hence the inspiration for the Giotto’s Silk Road series.
The new Y-Tube column allows a 30% space saving vs the MTL range – while maintaining full strength, stability and weight capacity. The Silk Road Series includes a range of tripods, which support up to 5kg, 8kg and 10kg of camera equipment.
The unique Y-shaped column allows tripod legs to be stowed in a much more compact configuration.
Within the range there are 12 models with options including a 2 way column and a super versatile 3 way centre column, ideal for very low level shooting. The 3D column tripods have an included low-angle adaptor.
The range also includes models with 3-section and 4-section tripod legs – for additional height and compact stowage. The adjustable tripod legs have 3 ‘footprint’ settings – full height, mid height where the legs are slightly wider and an ultra wide setting for low level photography.
The new range also features graduated leg markings and new, patented Quick Easy Leg (QEL) Lock adjustments for fast, accurate adjustment without taking your eye off the subject.
On the models with 2 way centre column, there’s also a bubble spirit level built in and all models feature a swappable tripod thread – so you can easily change between 3/8” and 1/4” – meaning the Giotto’s Silk Road YTL range is compatible with any Giotto’s head and models from other manufacturers too.
For the ultimate grip in wet or uneven conditions, spiked feet are now available as an optional extra. The range is available in both aluminium and carbon fibre made from the finest quality components. Carbon fibre models are manufactured from the highest quality 8x multi layer carbon fibre to increase strength and reduce weight.
Key Features:
Brand new patented ‘Y-Tube’ centre column – enabling a 30% space saving
12 models including finest quality aluminium and carbon fibre
3 or 4 section tripod legs
Brand new Quick Easy Leg Lock (QEL) and graduated leg markings
Fully compatible tripod thread – works with any Giotto’s head or other standard thread tripod heads
Range of height settings – and optional extras including short centre column and spiked tripod feet
Guide retail pricing: from £100 for aluminium models and £220 for carbon fibre models. The Giotto’s Silk Road Series will launch at the SWPP Trade Show (11th – 13th January 2013) and ‘first look’ of the entire range will be on show at Focus on Imaging (3rd - 6th March 2013)
Product will be available in store & online from mid-January.
DateTime: 1/10/2013 11:29:25 AM CT Posted By: Sean
Nikon D600 DSLR Camera - $1,685.99 Shipped (Compare at $1,996.95)
eBay (via BigValueInc) has the Nikon D600 DSLR Camera available for $1,685.99 with free shipping. Compare at $1,996.95.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.1%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
Canon Introduces the CN-E14mm T3.1 L F and CN-E135mm T2.2 L F Cinema Lenses
From Canon:
CANON U.S.A. INTRODUCES TWO NEW CINEMA PRIME LENSES, EXPANDING THE CINEMA EOS PRIME LENS PRODUCT LINE TO FIVE MODELS
Designed for Film-Style Operation, Canon Cinema Prime Lenses Deliver Exceptional 4K Performance
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 10, 2013 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announces the new CN-E14mm T3.1 L F and CN-E135mm T2.2 L F single-focal-length lenses for large-format single-sensor cameras employing Super 35mm or full frame 35mm imagers. These two new lenses join with Canon’s CN-E24mm T1.5 L F, CN-E50mm T1.3 L F, and CN-E85mm T1.3 L F primes to provide a broad line of five precision-matched, competitively priced EF-mount Cinema prime lenses that provide high optical performance levels and a choice of versatile focal lengths for a wide range of creative shooting choices. All five Canon Cinema prime lenses are part of the Canon Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography products, which include the EOS C500 4K/2K Digital Cinema Camera, EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera, EOS C100 Digital Video Camera and EOS-1D C 4K DSLR Cinema Camera, and four Canon Cinema zoom lenses.
“Since our introduction to the film and television production industry back in November 2011, we have brought to market five Cinema prime lenses, two top-end Cinema zoom lenses, two compact Cinema zoom lenses, and four professional digital cinematography cameras all within 18 months,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “This is a testament to the Company’s dedication to the needs of the growing and diverse universe of professionals creating 4K, 2K, and HD moving-image content for theatrical, television, and other high-resolution digital production markets. We look forward to continuing to serve these professionals with Canon Cinema EOS products designed to help them achieve their creative imperatives and commercial aspirations.”
All Canon Cinema EOS lenses integrate advanced materials and coatings to meet high optical performance levels, including 4K (4096 x 2160) production standards. Each Canon Cinema lens is equipped with an odd-numbered 11-blade aperture diaphragm, which is ideally suited to achieve creative depth-of-field manipulation and pleasing “bokeh” effects of cinematographic quality. The Canon line of five Cinema prime lenses is precision-matched for consistent and solid optical performance that minimizes focus-induced changes in the angle of view. All feature a full-frame image circle in a lightweight, compact design, and they incorporate proven Canon lens elements designed to fulfill contemporary 4K production standards. All five primes also deliver color tone and balance that matches Canon’s top-end Cinema zooms and compact Cinema zooms. Canon Cinema prime lenses are also water-resistant for severe shooting conditions and deliver the operation and reliability required in professional film-style shooting environments.
All five Canon Cinema primes feature mechanical attributes specifically designed for motion-picture production, as opposed to still photography. These strategically integrated film-style characteristics include 300 degree rotation on the focus ring for precision focus control as well as large, highly visible engraved focus scales for convenient operation. These markings appear on the angled surfaces on both sides of the barrel, making them easy to both read and to adjust the stepless focus and/or aperture settings of the lenses from behind – or from either side – of the camera. Focus markings can be switched from standard labeling to metric, and control rings are engineered to maintain the proper amount of resistance with consistent operating torque and familiar tactile “feedback” for satisfying manual control. All Canon Cinema prime lenses also share the same uniform gear positions, diameters, and rotation angles, as well as front-lens diameters, making them compatible with matte boxes, follow focus gear, marking disks, and other third-party film-industry-standard accessories. Film crews can quickly change lenses without the need for accessory gear-position adjustments or other changes to the rig setup.
The new Canon CN-E14mm T3.1 and CN-E135mm T2.2 Cinema prime lenses – as well as the Canon CN-E24mm T1.5, CN-E50mm T1.3, and CN-E85mm T1.3 primes – are fully compatible with the Canon EOS C500, EOS C300, EOS C100 and EOS-1D C digital cinema cameras. The EF-mount design of all five Canon Cinema prime lenses provides communication with these cameras for such handy features as display of the f number in the electronic viewfinder, recording of focus/zoom position and f number, and Peripheral Light Compensation for more pleasing effects shots.
The versatility of image-capture options using Canon EOS digital cinema cameras can be further extended with Canon’s Super35mm top-end Cinema zoom lenses (the CN-E14.5-60mm T2.6 wide-angle and the CN-E30-300mm T2.95-3.7 telephoto) and compact Cinema zooms (the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 wide-angle and CN-E30-105mm T2.8 telephoto). All four are available in both EF- and PL-mount versions, as are the EOS C500 and EOS C300 cameras. Almost all of Canon’s EF Series photographic lenses can also be used with these Cinema EOS cameras, including Image Stabilized zooms, tilt-shift models, and macro lenses. All of these products are designed to contribute to the continued advancement of tools for visual storytelling and all express Canon’s continuing commitment to cinematic culture.
Pricing and Availability The CN-E14mm T3.1 L F single-focal-length lens is expected to be available in April 2013 for an estimated retail price of $5,500. The CN-E135mm T2.2 L F single-focal-length lens is expected to be available in May 2013 for an estimated retail price of $5,200.
Have you ever needed an additional photographer for an event but couldn't find one on short notice? Have you ever needed to film yourself but there was no one around to help you out?
Zenfolio enables photographers to sell their work online.
Wall décor e-retailer Art.com Inc. has acquired Zenfolio Inc., which provides photographers the technology to upload, share and sell their work, Art.com announced today.
“Bringing Zenfolio into the Art.com family was very natural because of the synergy between the two companies in the wall decor space,” said Geoffroy Martin, CEO of Art.com. “Zenfolio provides a solution for photographers looking to sell their work online, and will allow us to capture an even larger portion of our customers’ ‘wall share.’“
Art.com did not disclose the financial terms of the deal, but says Art.com and Zenfolio.com will continue to operate as separate entities. The management team at Zenfolio will remain in place, and the company will continue to operate from its current location in Menlo Park, CA, for the foreseeable future, says an Art.com spokesperson.
Founded in 2006, Zenfolio is a subscription-based, customizable e-commerce platform service that allows amateur and professional photographers to launch and maintain their own e-commerce sites. “We are looking forward to the opportunity to leverage Art.com’s resources to accelerate our growth and expand our product offering,” says Alex Peyzner, founder and CEO of Zenfolio.
Art.com is No. 117 in the Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide.
The toughened glass used in many smartphones and tablets is about to get tougher
IDG News Service - Corning has developed a new version of its Gorilla Glass for smartphones and tablets that it says will result in 40% fewer scratches and appear in devices later this year.
Corning makes the glass used in devices from Apple, Samsung and other top-tier vendors. It introduced Gorilla Glass 2 at the International CES in Las Vegas last year, and it's back again in 2013 with another update.
It's virtually impossibly to make glass completely scratch-proof, but Gorilla Glass 3 can stand three times as much force before it develops the kind of deep scratches, or trenches, that are visible to the eye, said David Velasquez, Corning's director of marketing for Gorilla Glass.
That extra strength should result in 40% fewer scratches, he said. And if the glass cracks, it retains more of its strength than it did previously, meaning it's less likely to shatter if it gets another knock. Corning delivered samples of the new glass last year and it will be in volume production in the next few months.
Troubled High Street camera retailer Jessops has gone into administration, with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) appointed as the administrator.
In recent years, it has been hit by increasing competition from supermarkets and internet retailers.
Jessops, which was founded in Leicester in 1935, has 192 stores in the UK and employs about 2,000 staff.
The administrators said that it was "inevitable" that some stores would have to close.
PwC said that while Jessops was a well-known brand with a strong reputation for service, its core marketplace had seen a significant decline in 2012, which was forecast to continue in 2013.
Despite additional funding being made available, Jessops had not generated the profits it had planned, PwC added.
In 2009, Jessops managed to avoid administration by agreeing a debt for equity swap with its lender HSBC.
'Yet another blow'
Rob Hunt, joint administrator and partner at PwC, said: "Our most pressing task is to review the company's financial position and hold discussions with its principal stakeholders to see if the business can be preserved.
"Trading in the stores is hoped to continue today but is critically dependent on these ongoing discussions. However, in the current economic climate it is inevitable that there will be store closures."
PwC added that at present Jessops would not honour customer vouchers or accept returned goods.
Julie Palmer, a partner at business recovery group Begbies Traynor, said Jessops' administration was "yet another blow" for the UK High Street and showed that January was a high risk month for retailers.
"With substantial cash outflows on the 25 December quarterly rent day combining with fierce pricing competition during the January sales, it puts significant pressure on finances.
"The administration of such a household name can only serve to damage consumer confidence further in the months ahead." (thanks Dean)
130 new lens / camera combinations have been added to the DxO Optics Modules library, providing supports for Canon, Nikkor, Olympus, Sigma and Tokina lenses, for Canon, Fuji, Nikon, Panasonic and Sony cameras.
Manfrotto has Announced the 290 Series Foldable Three-Way Tripod Head
From Manfrotto:
MANFROTTO DEBUTS NEW 290 SERIES FOLDABLE THREE-WAY HEAD AT CES
Demos of Full 290 Series Carbon Fiber Lineup Round out Lineup
Las Vegas, N.V. (January 7, 2013) – At the Consumer Electronics Show, Manfrotto Distribution, world leader in the equipment and accessories industry for photography and imaging, has announced the new 290 Foldable Three-Way Head. It is also featuring its full lineup of Carbon Fiber tripod models and panoramic heads.
“We are thrilled to debut innovative photography solutions that deliver on our brand’s reputation for excellent quality and versatility,” said Jodi Palm, category manager, photo supports. “Our new 290 foldable three-way head is durable and light-weight, while delivering easy and precise framing capability. Additionally, we’re excited to showcase the full 290 series carbon fiber lineup.”
New 290 Series Foldable Three-Way Head and Full 290 Carbon Fiber Lineup Manfrotto is announcing a new addition to the 290 Series lineup: a foldable three-way head. The head has three new kits built around it. It is designed to be precise and accurate, yet compact and lightweight.
Key features include:
Easily packs and leaves space for more equipment, due to addition of foldable handles
Lightweight and durable, made from high quality polymer, ADAPTO
Allows for precise framing, meaning less time spent in post-production
The three-way head comes in four models: MH293D3-Q2 3-way photo head with compact foldable handles MK293A3-D3Q2 Kit: 290 aluminum tripod (3S) + 3-way head with foldable handles MK293A4-D3Q2 Kit: 293 aluminum tripod (4S) + 3-way head with foldable handles MK293C4-D3Q2 Kit: 293 carbon tripod (4S) + 3-way head with foldable handles
Designed to help amateur photographers move to the next level, the carbon tripods are lighter, and more durable than previous models. They also have interchangeable heads and can be adapted for shooting a variety of genres.
Key 290 series features include:
Carbon tubing, adjustable leg levers, interchangeable heads
Transportable, without any sacrifice in stability
Durable and built for heavy-duty use, without any reduction in strength or performance over time
RØDE Announces the iXY Microphone and Rec App for iPhone and iPad
From RØDE:
RØDE is proud to announce the iXY, a stereo microphone for iPhone and iPad with 30-pin connector that allows high quality recording at sampling rates up to 24-bit/96kHz, the only microphone on the market to do so
Appearing at the International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas for the first time, the company has unveiled the innovative device to an expected audience of over 150,000 visitors.
At the heart of the iXY is a matched pair of ½” cardioid condenser capsules, fixed in a perfect 90 degree ‘near-coincident’ alignment resulting in immersive and true-to-life stereo recordings, captured in incredibly high detail. The iXY uses its own high-fidelity analogue to digital conversion ensuring all recordings are rich, smooth and accurate.
The iXY’s small form factor and incredibly detailed performance makes it the perfect microphone for recording live music, meetings, lectures, reporting, dictation and sound design, and also is ideal for use on-camera as a dual-system recorder for DSLR.
A foam windshield is provided for outdoor recordings, as well as a rugged zip pocket to ensure the mic is always around when you need it.
“I’m more excited about iXY than any other product in RØDE’s twenty year history,” commented Peter Freedman, RØDE’s Founder and President. “The audio quality of the iXY is breathtaking and reallyaffirms RØDE’s commitment to providing the very best audio products available at a price that’s accessible to the general public.”
Released in conjunction with the iXY is RØDE Rec, an app for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch designed to be the ultimate companion to RØDE’s new microphone. When used together the iXY and RØDE Rec transform an iOS device into a fully featured field recorder.
RØDE Rec allows for complete control of the iXY’s continuously adjustable input levels for recording in loud and quiet environments, as well as the high pass filter to cut out low frequency rumbling such as air conditioning or outdoor traffic noises.
The RØDE Rec App is available for purchase from the App Store on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore. The app provides a full suite of features including multiple sampling rates up to 96kHz, equalization effects (compressor/expander, high-pass filter, low pass filter, parametric EQ), non-linear editing, geo and photo tagging, and one-touch publishing to SoundCloud, Dropbox, email, FTP and iTunes.
RØDE has also announced a feature-limited free version of the app, simply titled RØDE Rec LE.
The RØDE iXY is shipping this month. Visit ixymic.com for more information.
Shoulder bag, chest pack, or belt pack, it does all three successfully.
Santa Rosa, Calif. – In February, Think Tank Photo will release a completely updated version of its popular Change-Up multi-function camera bag. The Change-Up V2.0 has updated sizing and new features. This bag, a chameleon of sorts, can change from belt pack to shoulder bag to chest pack via the harness system. In addition, many Think Tank Modular and Skin Components can attach to the waist belt straps.
The included compression straps provide for a custom fit. The result of all this flexibility is a bag that can serve many uses: one day it serves as a lens changer, another day it’s a conventional shoulder camera bag, and another day it becomes a chest pack. It is this flexibility that makes this bag special and explains why novices to pros love it.
With the ability to carry a standard-size DSLR and a 70-200 2.8, (detached), it has a significant amount of capacity in a lightweight, body conforming shape. Alternately, it holds a standard-size DSLR with 24-70 2.8 attached, plus one to three additional lenses.
“While many camera bags convert from one thing to another, they generally are not great at any one thing,” said Doug Murdoch, Think Tank’s lead designer and president. “The Change-Up V2.0 camera bag is an exception to the rule; it converts from one great storage solution to another.”
Its essential features include:
Can be worn either as a shoulder camera bag, belt pack, or chest pack
Tall design accommodates DSLR equipment easily
Soft, lightweight materials contour to the body
Compression straps to adjust fit
Attachment rail for modular components (6” width)
One-handed zipper opens wide and provides quick access to gear
Easily accessible front organizer pocket
Stretchable side mesh pockets for water bottle or strobe
Durability that you’ve come to expect from the Think Tank brand
Highest quality YKK zippers
Seam-sealed rain cover included
Change-Up V2.0 enhancements include:
Increased height to fit all 70-200 2.8 lenses
Increased depth of top of bag to fit standard-size bodies
Added compression straps
Increased padding of back panel for added comfort
Belt strap tuck-away function improved by creating two separate pockets
Decreased weight and increased flexibility
Removed rear zippered pocket to allow fit for body while keeping bag slim
Change zipper application to “clam-shell” one handed application (one slider)
Rain cover moved to new zippered pocket on the bottom edge of the front panel
Change-Up V2.0’s all fabric exterior is treated with Durable Water Resistant coating while its fabric underside is coated with Polyurethane for superior water resistance. It uses YKK® RC Fuse (abrasion resistant) zippers, brushed 600D polyester, 250D shadow ripstop nylon, 100D ripstop nylon, 420HD nylon, Ultra-Stretch mesh pockets, 3D air mesh, antique nickel plated metal hardware, rock-lockster buckles, high-density foam shoulder strap, nylon webbing, 3-ply bonded nylon thread. Its interior features removable closed cell foam dividers, 210D silver-toned nylon, PU backed velex liner, 2x PU coated nylon 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
Specifications: External Dimensions: 11.5” W x 10.5” H x 6” D (29.2 × 26.7 × 15.2cm) Internal Dimensions: 11.2” W x 10” H x 5.8” (28.4 × 25.4 × 14.7cm) Weight: 1.5-2.2 lbs (0.7-1.0 kg)
The Change-Up V2.0 will be available soon at Think Tank Photo - click through our website and receive a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more.
Click here to be notified when Think Tank Photo has the Change-Up V2.0 in stock.
Santa Rosa, Calif. – Think Tank Photo announced that in February it will release a new concept in premium quality camera shoulder bags, the Sub Urban Disguise. The Sub Urban Disguises are designed for the professional photographer seeking smaller capacity camera bags and amateur photographers upgrading their bodies or using one to two lenses along with their new body.
The Sub Urban Disguise Series will be available in four sizes: the Sub Urban Disguise 5, Sub Urban Disguise 10, Sub Urban Disguise 20, and Sub Urban Disguise 30. Their features include a flip-top lid that folds away from the body to provide quick and unencumbered access to gear. The series meets the high-quality design standards of the original Think Tank Urban Disguise series, but for smaller gear or photographers who want to travel light.
Gear Profiles
The Sub Urban Disguise 5 holds a regular size DSLRs with one to two small telephotos or primes, or a D700 with a 18-200 attached. It also accommodates Micro 4/3rds, Leica and Sony NEX systems. Great for Strobists as it fits two to three pro-size flashes.
The Sub Urban Disguise 10 holds a regular size DSLRs with two to three small telephotos or primes, or a D700 with a 18-200 attached. It also fits three pro-size flashes.
The Sub Urban Disguise 20 holds regular size DSLRs with three to four small telephotos or primes or a D700 with a 18-200 attached. It fits four to five pro-size flashes.
The Sub Urban Disguise 30 fits a regular size DSLR and two to four standard telephoto lenses, or a D700 with a 24-70 2.8 attached. It can also hold an iPad or similarly-sized tablet.
Key features include:
Flip top lid opens away from your body, providing easy access to gear
Cleanly styled design, does not look like a traditional camera bag
Highest quality materials
Designed to easily fit DSLR equipment
Large padded front pocket
Easily accessible front organizer pocket
Stretchable side pockets fit a water bottle
Padded zippered pocket to accommodate an iPad or similarly-sized tablet (Suburban 30 only)
Padded non-slip flexible shoulder strap
Poly-ballistic fabric ensures durability
High quality YKK zippers
Seam-sealed rain cover included in front pocket
Business card slot
Materials:
Sub Urban Disguises’ all fabric exterior is treated with a Durable Water Resistant coating while the fabric underside is coated with Polyurethane for superior water resistance. It also uses YKK® RC Fuse zippers, 1680D ballistic polyester, 600D brushed polyester, 420D high-density nylon, Ultra-stretch pockets, antique nickel plated metal hardware, 3-ply bonded nylon thread. The interior features removable closed cell foam dividers, 200D polyester, PU backed velex liner, 2x PU coated nylon 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
Specifications:
Sub Urban Disguise 5
Internal Dimensions: 6.6” x 7.4” x 5” (16.8 x 18.8 x 12.7 cm) (W x H x D)
External Dimensions: 8” x 8.5” x 6.4” (20.3 x 21.6 x 16.3 cm) (W x H x D)
Maximum weight (with all accessories): 1.1lbs (0.5kg); Minimum weight: 1.0lb (0.4kg)
Sub Urban Disguise 10
Internal Dimensions: 8.8” x 7.4” x 5” (22.4 x 18.8 x 12.7 cm) (W x H x D)
External Dimensions: 10.5” x 8.5” x 7” (26.7 x 21.6 x 17.8 cm) (W x H x D)
Maximum weight (with all accessories): 1.4lb (0.6kg); Minimum weight: 1.2lb (0.5kg)
Sub Urban Disguise 20
Internal Dimensions: 11” x 7.4” x 5” (27.9 x 18.8 x 12.7 cm) (W x H x D)
External Dimensions: 12” x 8.5” x 7” (30.5 x 21.6 x 17.8 cm) (W x H x D)
Maximum weight (with all accessories): 1.6lbs (0.7kg); Minimum weight: 1.3lb (0.6kg)
Sub Urban Disguise 30
Internal Dimensions: 11” x 9.5” x 5” (27.9 x 22.9 x 12.7 cm) (W x H x D)
External Dimensions: 11.5” x 10” x 7.3” (29.2 x 25.4 x 18.5 cm) (W x H x D)
iPad pocket: 10.7” x 8.5” x .8” (27.2 x 21.6 x 2 cm) (W x H x D)
Maximum weight (with all accessories): 1.5lb (1.0kg) ; Minimum weight: 2.3lb (0.7kg)
The Sub Urban Disguises will be available soon at Think Tank Photo - click through our website and receive a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more.
Click here to be notified when Think Tank Photo has the Sub Urban Series in stock.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.1%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."
The Artists' Modern Muse: The Nikon D5200 Inspires Users to Capture Creatively
Soon to be Available in the U.S., The Nikon D5200 Blends D-SLR Performance and Imaginative Features That Make it Simple to Create and Share Amazing Images and Full HD Video
LAS VEGAS, CES BOOTH #8643 – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the U.S. availability of the Nikon D5200, a camera that provides the imaginative features and D-SLR versatility needed to fulfill any creative vision through stunning imagery and Full HD video. Whether new to D-SLR shooting, or for those simply ready to step-up to a higher level of photography, the 24.1-megapixel D5200 will inspire new ways to capture with an easy-to-use interface, in-camera Special Effects and creative modes, plus the ability to share wirelessly in an instant. The Nikon D5200 will be available in late January for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $899.95* with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens.
“The Nikon D5200 is intended for the customer who wants to capture and share their life, their experiences and their adventures in new and original ways”, said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “The D5200 features Nikon’s latest innovative technologies along with an easy-to-use feature set that enables users to unleash their creativity, and truly test the boundaries of a photographer’s imagination.”
Imaginative Features Inspire Creativity The Nikon D5200 is designed to foster creative possibilities, allowing users to easily document their lives with a compact and lightweight D-SLR camera body. Loaded with features for making amazing images and HD video, the D5200 is a must-have camera for a well-planned excursion or spontaneous adventure. Photographers have the ability to tell stories with artistic flair, thanks to the assistance of features that include:
Vari-Angle LCD - The high-resolution, 921,000-dot 3-inch LCD screen swivels and rotates at a variety of angles, and is viewable at 170 degrees. This makes it easy to capture images and HD video from creative angles such as above the crowd or down low from a toddler’s perspective. Users can even swivel the LCD screen for creative and fun self-portraits.
In-Camera Special Effects for video and still images - By selecting the Effects option on the Mode Dial, users can apply a wide range of creative filters and effects for both photos and HD video. Modes include Selective Color to visually highlight up to three selected colors within a monochrome scene; Color Sketch to create a vivid drawing from a scene; Miniature effect to make a scene appear as a miniature model and Night Vision to enable images and video in very low-light by increasing the camera’s sensitivity. Users can also enable modes to emphasize silhouettes or create color effects with high-key and low-key images and video. These effects can be applied prior to shooting the photo or video, or can be applied post-capture for photos through the retouch menu.
Creativity has never been easier - The D5200 features an enhanced graphical user interface (GUI) that makes it easy to visualize camera settings for optimal results. Additionally, users can enable other visual effects including High Dynamic Range (HDR) and six settings of Nikon’s Picture Controls to creatively and automatically manipulate tone and color for striking images and HD video.
Creativity Without Boundaries The D5200 takes advantage of Nikon’s new 24.1-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor to deliver amazing image quality and beautiful HD video that bursts with vivid color, broad dynamic range and gorgeous tones, even in challenging light. Users are now able to realize the full potential and the performance benefits of D-SLR photography including rapid camera response, interchangeable lenses and amazing image quality. Whether shooting a family outing or action sports, the camera is packed with features that let users create amazing content:
Wide ISO range (from 100-6400) - For shooting in even the most challenging lighting conditions, the D5200 covers a wide ISO range and is expandable to as high as ISO 25,600. Shooting at high ISO sensitivity enables users to shoot at faster shutter speeds and reduce the effects of image blur caused by camera shake even in low-light situations or when shooting a moving subject, delivering clean and sharp images with minimal noise.
EXPEED 3 image processing - Nikon’s most recent image processing engine, dubbed EXPEED 3, drives the rapid response and swift performance of the camera, while maximizing energy efficiency, reducing image noise and delivering true-to-life colors.
Scene Recognition System - Information from the 2,016 pixel RGB sensor is used to instantly analyze and recognize the scene prior to capture, resulting in adjustments to exposure, AF and white balance for the best possible image quality. The result is brilliant landscapes, flattering portraits and fast-moving action captured with split-second precision.
39-point AF system with wide area coverage - The D5200 features Nikon’s quick and accurate 39-point AF system to help users create tack-sharp images for a wide variety of subjects. The Multi-CAM 4800 DX AF sensor works in tandem with the Scene Recognition System to accurately acquire and track subjects throughout the frame. Users can lock-on to fast moving subjects throughout the frame using 3D tracking to create sharp images of fast action, or use one of the other modes including single point AF, Dynamic AF and Auto-Area AF. When in Live View or recording video, contrast detect AF quickly acquires, and can even track focus through the frame.
Speed and performance - Whether upgrading from a compact point-and-shoot or exploring the benefits of D-SLR photography, users will appreciate the speed to capture fast action and fleeting moments at the press of a button. The D5200 can shoot full-resolution images at up to five frames-per-second to help freeze fast moving subjects, and quickly acquires focus thanks to the intelligent AF system. The D5200 delivers amazing performance with lightning fast start-up time and nearly imperceptible shutter lag, the time when the shutter button is pressed to when the beautiful image is captured.
The Easy Way to Share Great Pictures While the Nikon D5200 is capable of capturing amazing images and HD video, it also enables the user to simply and quickly share stunning imagery with friends and family. By utilizing the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, the connected user can easily share photos taken on the D5200 to a supported smartphone or tablet.2 The Nikon Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application is available free of charge on Google Play™ for Android™1 devices or from the App Store™ for the iPhone or iPad.3 When using the application, photographers can wirelessly transfer images from the camera to a mobile device, and even remotely control the camera from up to 49 feet.
Realize a Vision in HD Video For those wanting to expand their creative vision with video, the D5200 D-Movie HD video mode is capable of capturing Full HD 1080p, with the option to apply Nikon’s Creative Effects. This feature lets users take advantage of modes like Selective Color or Color Sketch to create truly customized movies. By simply pressing the dedicated video record button, movies are recorded at 1080/30p, or at 60i for optimal playback on many HDTVs when connected to the HDMI output. For the first time in a Nikon HD-SLR, users have the ability to record stereo sound through the internal microphone or attach an optional external microphone, such as Nikon’s ME-1, through the dedicated microphone terminal.
The Vari-Angle LCD provides the opportunity to gain a unique perspective for video, while full-time autofocus helps users maintain sharp focus that is critical for HD video. While recording, the contrast detect AF system has the ability to use normal or wide area AF, track a subject through the frame, or use face priority AF to make sure faces are always in focus.
NIKKOR, Speedlight and System Compatibility The creative potential for the D5200 is unlimited when combined with the versatility of Nikon’s legendary NIKKOR optics and powerful system accessories. Compatible with Nikon’s dedicated DX-format lenses and more than 50 FX-format lenses as well as Nikon’s Speedlight System, the Nikon D5200 puts the ability to create stunning images and HD video at the user’s fingertips.
New optional WR-R10 and WR-T10 Wireless Remote Controllers The D5200 is also compatible with a new wireless radio frequency remote accessory, the WR-R10 and WR-T10 Wireless Remote Controllers. When using these devices, the camera can be triggered remotely, making it ideal for group shots, remote applications, or to reduce shake when the camera is mounted on a tripod. This new wireless remote system operates from a radio signal rather than infrared light, dramatically increasing functionality and range. Now the camera can be triggered from up to 20 meters (66 feet) away, and a direct line of sight is not necessary. The remotes also enable the bulb function for long shutter applications, as well as functions of the camera that are affected by a half-press of the shutter, including the engagement of the AF system or starting and stopping video capture. The WR-R10 transceiver can be connected to the accessory terminal of many Nikon D-SLR cameras including the new D5200, D3200 and D600. For those cameras that feature a 10-pin terminal, the optional WR-A10 adapter can be fastened to allow use of the wireless remote controllers.
Price and Availability The Nikon D5200 will be available in three colors (Black, Red and Bronze), starting in late January 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $899.95* with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens. The WU-1a is available for the SRP of $59.95*. The WR-T10 Wireless Remote Controller will be available at the end of January for a SRP of $94.96*, WR-R10 Wireless Remote Transceiver for an SRP of $126.96*, the WR-A10 Wireless Remote Adapter for a SRP of $74.96* and the WR-10 Wireless Remote Controller Set will be available for a SRP of $277.96*. For more information on the new Nikon D5200 and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
Nikon Expands the Nikon 1 System with the Announcement of the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 as well as the New 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6 Lenses
New Nikon 1 System Cameras and Lenses Demonstrate Nikon’s Commitment to Providing Shooters with New Ways to be Creative, Expressive and Connected through Images and Video
LAS VEGAS, CES BOOTH #8643 – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the new Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1, the latest additions to the ever growing Nikon 1 Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens System. Designed for consumers looking for a camera that offers the compact size and portability of a point-and-shoot camera along with advanced controls and features found in high-end digital cameras, the new J3 and S1 cameras offer enhanced speed and performance, high image quality and new easy-to-use creative shooting modes. Furthermore, users will be able to easily share and transfer images to smart devices instantly when connected to the optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter1.
Nikon also announced new accessories for the Nikon 1 System, including two new additions to the 1 NIKKOR lenses lineup, the VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and the VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6, ideal lenses for capturing amazing images and HD video with incredible detail. The 6.7-13mm is the first 1 NIKKOR lens to offer a wide, 100-degree angle of view, and the compact and lightweight 10-100mm is a 10x zoom lens that is ultra-portable, perfect for taking on any type of trip or excursion. Nikon has also announced the new WP-N2 underwater case, specifically designed for the adventurous user looking to take their photography on water-based excursions like snorkeling or surfing without the fear of water damaging their camera.
“With today’s announcement of the Nikon 1 J3, Nikon 1 S1, 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm lens and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm lens, Nikon continues to demonstrate our commitment to developing and expanding the Nikon 1 System for creative shooters looking to step up from their compact digital cameras," said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “Similar to previous Nikon 1 System cameras, the compact yet powerful J3 and S1 offer stunning image quality, quick performance, incredibly fast shooting speeds, user-friendly modes and controls, as well as the ability to wirelessly share and transfer images when paired with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter.”
Built to Capture and Deliver Stunning Results: The New Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 Though new additions to the Nikon 1 System, both the J3 and S1 feature many proven and trusted Nikon technologies commonly found in other Nikon camera models. The Nikon 1 J3 features a 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor, while the Nikon 1 S1 sports a 10.1-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor. Paired together with Nikon’s powerful EXPEED 3A image processing engine, these CMOS sensors deliver stunning high-quality images and HD video even in challenging lighting situations with rich detail. For complete shooting versatility, both cameras feature a wide ISO range, from 160 to 6400 in the J3 and 100 to 6400 in the S1, allowing users even more freedom and capabilities when capturing content in low-light situations. Both cameras offer wide and bright 3-inch LCD screens as well as a new integrated flash that can be setup to go off automatically or can be manually popped up based on a shooter’s desired results.
Additionally, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 offer Nikon’s Advanced Hybrid Autofocus (AF) system, which is lightning fast and highly responsive, ideal for capturing life’s split second moments. With this rapid AF system, users can take advantage of incredibly fast shooting speeds, allowing them to capture fast action that is sharp and in clear focus. The cameras also feature a 73-point AF array that helps ensure accuracy and super precise focus even when capturing fast moving subjects throughout the frame. Further, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 include the world’s shortest release time at approximately 80 milliseconds*, and the world’s fastest high-speed continuous shooting** at 15 frames-per-second with continuous AF.
Creativity Unleashed: User-Friendly Shooting Modes and Controls Designed to take creative freedom to new heights, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 offer user-friendly shooting modes and controls that photographers can take advantage of whether capturing a family portrait or recording a video of the big hit at a ballgame. For easier control and quick access to camera features, the J3 utilizes improved menu navigation while the S1 features a graphic user interface (GUI) based mode selection, both designed to be easy-to-use and make menu navigation effortless and direct.
The new Nikon 1 System cameras both feature unique shooting modes like Auto Mode, Creative Mode, Advanced Movie, Motion Snapshot and Best Moment Capture, all of which are easily accessible and applied. When in Auto Mode, both cameras will automatically select the optimal settings for the scene, so that the shooter can concentrate on framing the photo. When in Creative Mode, shooters can utilize full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) as well as Selective Color, Miniature, Soft, Night Landscape, Backlighting and Night Portrait modes to help achieve the desired results that they seek. The Nikon 1 J3 also provides access to Easy Panorama Mode to provide a wide perspective for vast landscapes or interiors.
The Advanced Movie Mode is integrated into both new cameras to bolster video capabilities. When in Advanced Movie Mode, the simultaneous shooting of Full HD video and high-resolution stills of a subject or scene is achievable. Furthermore, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) can be used and slow motion movies at both 400 fps and 1200 fps can also be captured when in this mode. Both cameras share the Enhanced Motion Snapshot Mode to provide users with the option of capturing a quick passing moment with a short, slow-motion movie sequence in addition to a single defining still image. When using Motion Snapshot, in-camera electronic Vibration Reduction (eVR) can be applied to assist in removing blur from images.
With Best Moment Capture Mode, Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 shooters can explore the benefits of two dynamic features, Slow View and Smart Photo Selector. In Slow View, the pressing of the shutter button halfway down once focus is achieved will allow users to capture live action (approx. 1.33 seconds), while the view of the subject is displayed at five times slower than normal speed (approx. 6.66 seconds) on the camera’s LCD screen. Furthermore, the slowed-down view is looped over and over until a full-press of the shutter is made. By viewing action slowed down, users have more opportunities to capture the perfect moment. When Smart Photo Selector is used, shooters can capture up to 20 shots with the J3 and 15 shots with the S1 with one press of the shutter button. The cameras will then automatically identify the five best images to keep based on exposure, focus and facial recognition factors.
Instantly and Easily Share Creative Content: Nikon 1 System Connectivity Like the Nikon 1 V2, the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 were designed to work with Nikon’s optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter. When the WU-1b is connected to the J3 or S1, users have the ability to capture high-quality images and can then easily transfer them wirelessly to a smart device. Once transferred, images can be shared with family and friends or posted to status pages on social media networks. If using the free Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android™2 platform smart devices as well as iPhone® and iPad®3 mobile digital devices, J3 and S1 users will have the ability to remotely take photos with the camera from a smartphone or tablet.
Expansion of the 1 NIKKOR Lens Lineup: The New 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm and VR 10-100mm Lenses Alongside the new Nikon 1 System cameras, Nikon also announced the addition of two new 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and 10-100mm f/4-5.6. With these two lenses, Nikon 1 shooters have even more options when building a camera system that fits their shooting needs and creativity. The new compact, ultra wide-angle zoom 6.7-13mm lens (equivalent to a focal length of 18mm to 35mm in FX/35mm format) will provide photographers with new avenues to explore their creativity and expressivity in photos and videos. The lens includes Vibration Reduction (VR) and has a wide 100-degree angle of view, which makes it ideal for capturing photos and HD video of landscapes, cityscapes, interiors, and architecture. Photographers looking for some more range with their Nikon 1 System cameras will enjoy the new 10-100mm telephoto zoom lens (equivalent to a focal length of 27mm to 270mm in FX/35mm format), which also incorporates Vibration Reduction (VR). The compact and lightweight telephoto lens is portable and convenient enough to take everywhere, while providing a long focal range perfect for various types of photography including group shots and action sports.
Capturing Images Underwater: The New WP-N2 Underwater Case Perfectly paired with the new Underwater White Balance setting found in both the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1, Nikon has introduced the new WP-N2 underwater case. This new underwater case can house either the J3 or the S1 in addition to the 1 NIKKOR 10-30mm lens. Moreover, the WP-N2 underwater case will allow users to zoom in and out when using the 10-30mm lens. Designed to complement the versatility of the Nikon 1 System cameras, the WP-N2 gives shooters the creative freedom to capture images and videos at the beach, the lake or during aquatic adventures such as snorkeling. The underwater case is submergible and waterproof up to approximately 131 feet (40 meters). Additionally, the new J3 and S1 feature an Underwater White Balance setting which makes adjusting white balance easy when capturing photos underwater.
Price and Availability The Nikon 1 J3 camera with the 10-30mm lens will be available in February 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $599.95***. Additionally, the Nikon 1 S1 camera with the 11-27.5mm lens will be available in February 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $499.95***. To match consumers' personalities and creativity, the J3 will come in a variety of stylish colors including White, Black, Silver, Burgundy and Beige, while the S1 will come in White, Black, Red, Pink and Khaki.
The two 1 NIKKOR lenses, the 1 NIKKOR VR 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4-5.6, will have suggested retail prices (SRP) of $499.95*** and $549.95***, respectively. The new WP-N2, the underwater case for either the Nikon 1 J3 or the Nikon 1 S1, will be available in February 2013 and will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.95***.
Nikon Announces COOLPIX S6500 & S2700 Digital Cameras
From Nikon:
TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of two new COOLPIX S-series models that incorporate advanced functions in a stylish design.
The S6500 is a wide-angle, high-power zoom model equipped with a backside illumination CMOS image sensor with an effective pixel count of 16.0-million pixels, a 12x optical zoom NIKKOR lens that covers a broad range of angles of view from the wide-angle 25 mm to 300 mm (both equivalent in 35-mm [135] format), all in a slim and stylish body. With Wi-Fi® compatibility, users can transfer high-quality still images captured and movies recorded with the camera to a smart device for direct upload to social networking sites. The new S6500 also features five new Glamour Retouch effects, including Brighten Faces, which brightens skin tones, and Whiten Teeth, which makes teeth appear whiter. In addition to expanding Nikon's latest proposal for new ways to enjoy connecting with digital cameras, the S6500 offers extensive features that allow users to further enjoy their photos after they have been taken.
The slim S2700 features not only a 6x optical zoom NIKKOR lens, whose wide-angle and zoom capabilities allow it to cover a wide variety of scenes, but also an extensive selection of automatic shooting functions including six types of Scene Auto Selector modes. The camera is also equipped with a wide variety of image editing functions such as Special Effects and Filter Effects, as well as advanced basic functions such as Motion Detection and Subject Tracking. The S2700 is a model that enables even first-time digital camera users to safely enjoy shooting and editing still images through simple operations. In addition, the S2700 has met the needs of users wanting a unique camera by offering Decorative Pink and Decorative Purple designs with flower motifs on the front surface of the body.
S6500 Primary Features
A 12x optical zoom NIKKOR lens that covers a broad range of angles of view from the wide-angle 25 mm to 300 mm (equivalent in 35-mm [135] format) Equipped with a backside illumination CMOS image sensor with an effective pixel count of 16.0-million pixels and a high-performance, high-power zoom NIKKOR lens with lens-shift vibration reduction (VR) function, all in a stylish and slim body. The S6500 can easily be taken anywhere to enjoy capturing a wide variety of scenes, from wide-angle landscape shots to close-ups of people's expressions using the zoom or macro close-up shooting up to about 8 cm from the front of the lens.
Wi-Fi® compatibility to expand the enjoyment of connecting through easy communications with smart devices With built-in Wi-Fi®, users can easily transfer images and movies to smart devices such as smartphones and tablets.* Users can share high-quality still images captured and movies recorded and saved using the S6500 with friends and family by easily uploading them to social networking sites. Users can also use smart devices to remotely shoot pictures, convenient for group photos. The date information data on smart devices can be linked with the camera.
*The Wireless Mobile Utility app must first be installed on the smart device.
A total of eight Glamour Retouch effects, including five new effects In addition to the previously available Glamour Retouch effects (Skin Softening, Small Face and Big Eyes), the following five effects are now also available. Brighten Faces, which lightens skin tones, Hide Eye Bags, which reduces the effects of bags and darkening under the eyes, Whiten Eyes makes the whites of eyes appear whiter, Whiten Teeth makes teeth appear whiter, and Redden Cheeks applies a blush effect to the cheeks for a lively cute look (orange, red, blue-pink and yellow-pink colors can be selected). With an extensive eight types of effects, users can adjust images to match their shooting intent and create memorable portraits that bring out the expressions of the subjects.
A wide variety of shooting functions for capturing decisive moments The S6500 features Smile Timer with Continuous, where the camera captures up to five images continuously and saves them all, and BSS, which captures up to five images continuously and saves the one that best captured the smile. The camera also comes equipped with the superior basic performance of previous models, including Target Finding AF, where the camera will automatically focus on the most suitable subject just by pointing the camera at it, Scene Auto Selector, which automatically sets the optimal scene mode, and Face Priority AF that automatically detects and focuses on human faces. The S6500 features an extensive array of functions to ensure that the user will be able to capture definitive moments.
Recording of high-quality full-HD movies with stereo sound with the press of a button Full-HD 1920 x 1080 / 30 fps movies with stereo sound and superior picture quality can be recorded with the simple press of a button on the back. The S6500 also features a function that allows for pausing movie recording. By saving multiple scenes recorded intermittently to eliminate unwanted portions as a single file, users can enjoy playing back one continuous movie. Users can also edit movies to trim selected scenes from the footage.
S2700 Primary Features
Equipped with a 6x optical NIKKOR lens for wide-angle to zoom shooting with a single lens, in a slim body The S2700 features a 6x optical zoom NIKKOR lens for coverage of a broad range of angles of view from the wide-angle 26 mm to 156 mm (equivalent in 35-mm [135] format) in a stylish and slim body. This allows for shooting not only a variety of everyday scenes with simple operations, but also close-ups of people up to about 5 cm from the front of the lens.
Extensive automatic shooting features that enable simple shooting even by first-time users The camera features the Scene Auto Selector mode where the camera automatically selects the optimal scene mode for the subject or scene. By simply pointing the camera at the desired object, the camera will determine the optimal scene out of the available six (Portrait, Night portrait, Landscape, Night landscape, Backlighting , Close-up), eliminating the hassle of changing settings and capturing beautiful images of a wide variety of subjects. This feature allows users to easily and assuredly take pictures, even if it is their first digital camera.
A wide variety of image editing functions to further enjoy captured images Images with the desired color and tone adjustment can be captured with specification from the Special Effects menu prior to shooting, and in-camera editing for simple image adjustment and enhancement without using a computer is possible with Filter Effects.
Superior basic performance With superior basic performance, users can take sharper images with less blur, without worrying about missing photo opportunities, using features such as Motion detection, which automatically increases shutter speeds by detecting camera shake and the movement and even the speed of the subject, and Target Finding AF that automatically selects and focuses on the AF area according to subject movement.
A wide range of color variations and a unique design In addition to the five body colors of silver, black, red, purple and blue, there are also the Decorative Pink and Decorative Purple models that feature flower motifs on the front surface. Users can select from a total of seven variations to choose a model that fits their style.
Kingston Announces DataTraveler HyperX Predator 1TB USB Flash Drive
From Kingston:
Kingston Digital Ships Its Fastest, World’s Largest-Capacity USB 3.0 Flash Drive
DataTraveler HyperX Predator 3.0 will be Available Up to 1TB
Data Transfer Speeds up to 240MB/s Read, 160MB/s Write
Certified SuperSpeed USB 3.0
2013 International CES Las Vegas, NV and Fountain Valley, CA -- January 7, 2013 -- Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the DataTraveler® HyperX® Predator 3.0 USB Flash drive. DataTraveler HyperX Predator 3.0 is the world's largest-capacity USB 3.0 Flash drive as it will be available in a 1TB capacity later in Q1. It is shipping now in 512GB capacity. DT HyperX Predator 3.0 is the fastest USB 3.0 Flash drive in the Kingston® family, with speeds of up to 240MB/s read and 160MB/s write. It has also achieved SuperSpeed USB 3.0 certification.
"Our new DataTraveler HyperX Predator 3.0 allows users to store their entire digital world on a portable USB 3.0 Flash drive," said Andrew Ewing, Flash memory business manager, Kingston. "The large capacity and fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds allow users to save time as they can access, edit and transfer applications or files such as HD movies directly from the drive without any performance lag."
DataTraveler HyperX Predator 3.0 is compliant with next-generation USB 3.0 specifications and is optimized for newer PCs with USB 3.0 ports. Users who work with large video or graphics files, or gamers who like to travel with their entire library will appreciate the drive's speed and capacity. The casing is made of zinc alloy metal for superior quality, shock resistance and high-end design. DataTraveler HyperX Predator 3.0 ships with a custom Kingston key ring and a HyperX valet keychain. It is also backwards compatible with USB 2.0 for efficient data transfer rates.
DataTraveler HyperX Predator 3.0 USB Flash drive is part of the HyperX Predator family, which represents the highest-performance products offered from Kingston HyperX. The drive is backed by a five-year warranty, free technical support and legendary Kingston reliability.
From a single memory product and two employees 25 years ago to 2,000 products and more than 4,000 employees today, Kingston has evolved into the most trusted name in memory and Flash products in 125 countries around the world. Kingston’s unwavering commitment to quality and reliability continues as we celebrate the 25-year milestone and the partnerships that have contributed to the company’s success.
Note: You must search the site using the product code, 9320A009. The included battery (a $44.95 value!) is compatible with the Canon EOS Rebel XS, XSi and T1i digital cameras.
The components in this kit sell for over $100.00 individually. Not a bad deal to say the least!
Lexar High-Performance 600x UHS-I Memory Card Offers High Performance to Dramatically Accelerate Workflow
New 256GB SDXC UHS-I Card Captures, Stores, and Transfers High-Quality Photos and Extended Lengths of Full-HD Video
Fremont, CA, January 7, 2013 – Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory products, today announced the 256GB Lexar® Professional 600x SDXC™ UHS-I card. The Class 10 card offers a 90MB* per second minimum guaranteed read transfer speed to give photographers and videographers the ability to capture extended lengths of 1080p HD and 3D video and high-quality images. When paired with a compatible card reader, such as the Lexar® Professional USB 3.0 Dual-Slot Reader, the Professional 600x SDXC card helps photographers zip through post-production with high-speed card-to-computer file transfer, improving workflow and enabling them to shoot longer.
“With the growing demands of HD and 3D video capabilities, today’s professional photographers and videographers need to be equipped with a high-performance and high-capacity memory card to meet the needs of their clients,” said Manisha Sharma, director of product marketing, Lexar. “By using the 256GB Lexar Professional SDXC UHS-I card, professionals can leverage all the latest camera features available for capturing high-quality video and images, without having to worry about time spent changing cards or transferring content to the computer. We want our customers to make the most of their time out on the field.”
“Small capacity cards are not efficient for shooting a lot of HD and 3D video. Constantly having to change cards eats away at time spent behind the camera, and also means I’ll have to spend more time transferring the content from each card to my computer,” said Lexar Elite Photographer David Honl. “Lexar cards help improve my workflow by giving me the mix of capacity and performance that allows me to shoot longer and spend less time transferring my videos and images.”
The Lexar Professional 600x 256GB SDXC UHS-I card includes the latest downloadable version of Image Rescue® 4 software to help recover lost or deleted photo and video files, even if they’ve been erased or the card has been corrupted.** All Lexar memory card designs are tested in the Lexar Quality Labs to ensure performance, quality, compatibility, and reliability with more than 800 digital cameras and memory card devices. The Professional 600x SDXC UHS-I card comes with a limited lifetime warranty and free dedicated professional technical support.
The 256GB Lexar Professional 600x SDXC UHS-I card will be available in January for purchase with an MSRP of $999.99 from Lexar.com and leading retail and e-tail outlets worldwide. For additional information about Lexar Professional products, visit www.lexar.com.
NEW POWERSHOT N DIGITAL CAMERA OPENS NEW DIMENSIONS OF PHOTOGRAPHIC EXPRESSION
Camera Features New Shooting Styles and Easy Wireless Connectivity
Lake Success, N.Y., January 7, 2013 - To inspire creative exploration and encourage instant sharing of life’s every day moments, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today unveiled the new PowerShot N digital camera as part of its PowerShot lineup. With an innovative Creative Shot mode that enhances artistic expression and a variety of new connectivity features that support instant sharing, Canon’s PowerShot N is the ultimate storytelling tool.
Helping people’s creativity bubble to the surface, the PowerShot N offers Creative Shot, a new imaging mode that intuitively analyzes an image and automatically creates a series of five artistic photos of the original with varying composition, lighting and color for an array of options that are ready to impress. In addition, the new PowerShot is equipped with enhanced wireless capabilities that connect the camera to a variety of mobile devices instantly, so users can upload and comment on their images while on-the-go.
In addition to offering powerful artistic and connectivity functions, the PowerShot N features a 2.8-inch capacitive, tilt-touch panel LCD, allowing users to capture creative images at unique angles. With a shutter and zoom ring, both located on the top and bottom of the lens, images can be snapped from virtually any position so the perfect shot is always within reach.
The PowerShot N offers an 8x optical zoom and a 28mm wide-angle lens, packaged with a 12.1- megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor, so your moments can be captured and preserved in stunning quality. Users can also record beautiful 1080p Full HD video with a dedicated movie button, so life’s moving moments are not missed. With the built-in Hybrid Auto and Face ID systems, pin-sharp focus can be achieved quickly and easily while the camera automatically recognizes and focuses on familiar faces. For the ultimate in shooting convenience, Canon’s Intelligent IS System allows the camera to automatically select the optimal image stabilization settings according to the shooting conditions, taking the guesswork out of identifying the ideal setting for each unique shot.
“An ever-increasing number of internet users continue to post their own photos and videos online,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “The new PowerShot N opens up a new dimension of photographic expression, helping people express their personal style and creative flair with powerful innovative Canon technologies.”
Easy Connectivity Options for Convenient Sharing The PowerShot N is equipped with enhanced wireless capabilities, so high-quality images can be shared with friends and family even while on-the-go. After an initial one-time set-up, the new Mobile Device Connect Button connects the camera to a variety of mobile devices for quick and easy sharing. Users simply press the Mobile Device Connect Button and launch Canon’s free CameraWindow application , available on both the iOS and Android operating systems , to wirelessly transfer photos and videos to their device. Frequently used devices and accounts are conveniently stored in the camera’s wireless history menu for quick one-touch access.
With these enhanced wireless capabilities, users now have the ability to comment on their uploaded photos directly from the camera – so being part of conversations taking place on social networking sites is easy and convenient. In addition, individuals can control the destination of Facebook uploads – choosing to share content with everyone, or post photos only to selected Facebook groups. Users can also instantly upload images wirelessly from the camera to Canon iMAGE GATEWAYiii, and automatically upload them to a computer remotely. Photos can also be printed wirelessly using Wireless PictBridgeiv on select Canon printers, including the new PIXMA MG6320 or PIXMA MX922 Wireless Photo All-In-One printers, so special moments can be preserved and cherished.
The Ultimate Tool to Capture Creativity Creative Shot, available on the PowerShot N, is an easy, yet powerful tool to add artistic effects to your photos. In Creative Shot mode, users compose their shot and let the PowerShot N analyze the photo to apply a series of artistic elements by varying composition, lighting and color. After an image is captured, Creative Shot will render five different variations of the shot in different color modes, crops, and styles, delivering creative new perspectives automatically while still maintaining the original image.
In addition, the new PowerShot N offers 58 scenes of Smart AUTO and provides an 8x Optical Zoom to help users capture the ultimate creative shot. A first-ever for the PowerShot line-up, the camera’s shutter and zoom buttons are located on top and bottom of the lens so high and low-angle shots can be easily captured. The PowerShot N features Smart Shutter, enabling users to start tracking a subject simply by pressing the intuitive touch panel LCD, and then capture the image by lifting their finger off the screen. For added flexibility, the image on the screen rotates with the camera – so people can capture even the most unique shot.
Sleek, Small and Designed for Portability With a sleek and distinct design, the PowerShot N measures 3.09 x 2.37 x 1.15 inches, making it ideal for quick on-the-go shooting. This camera features a 2.8-inch capacitive tilt touch panel LCD, which offers 90 degrees of tilt, encourages users to capture images from a wide array of angles and positions effectively in virtually any location. The top-mounted hinge keeps the PowerShot N compact for convenient on-the-go shooting and easy, one handed operation.
The camera’s 28mm wide-angle 8x optical zoom lens and shutter are both operated on the camera’s dual-ring lens. The outer ring controls the shutter, which can be released from any point on the ring, and the inner ring controls the zoom, so managing the PowerShot N is easy and effortless. With these innovative new design features, users now have the ability to shoot diagonally, horizontally and from low or high angles so even the most out-of-reach image can be captured with ease.
In addition, the PowerShot N offers a new ECO Mode, a feature that provides approximately 30 percent longer battery life when enabled, by dimming the screen and eventually shutting off the display after the device has been idle for 10 seconds, allowing users to shoot more and for longer. Adding to its portability and convenience, the camera features USB charging through a computer or traditional charging by the AC adaptor, allowing users to power-up from virtually anywhere.
Pricing and Availability The PowerShot N is expected to be available in April 2013 for an estimated retail price of $299.99, in white or black.
Canon Announces PowerShot ELPH 130 IS, A2600, & A1400 Digital Cameras
NEW CANON POWERSHOT CAMERAS HELP CAPTURE HIGH-QUALITY IMAGES WITH SIMPLICITY
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 7, 2013 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS, A2600, and the A1400 digital cameras to capture emotions and memories to share in stunning quality. To give consumers a simple, yet enhanced image sharing experience, Canon’s built-in wireless1 functionality has evolved with new options that help make posting on social networking sites easy. Also for users who are constantly on the move, each of the new camera models are outfitted with ECO Mode, a new feature that provides approximately 30 percent longer battery life when enabled, allowing them to shoot more photos for a longer amount of time.
“Our new PowerShot models have advanced features that give photographers an enhanced high-quality imaging experience allowing them to fulfill their day-to-day photography needs, express their vision and tell their story with ease, at a great value,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communication Group, Canon U.S.A.”
PowerShot ELPH 130 IS Digital Camera The wireless functionality built into the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera is easy and intuitive and provides users with more connectivity options. With the download of the free Canon CameraWindow app2 from an Android™ or iOS® app store, users can connect to both iOS or AndroidTM smartphones and tablets3 to wirelessly transfer photos and videos from their camera to their device. This camera also has the ability to connect directly to social networking sites using Canon’s iMAGE GATEWAY4, making photos easily accessible and ready to share. In addition, the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera has the ability to connect to computers and select PowerShot cameras with wireless functionality, making it possible for images to be available in various locations. And for even more connectivity options, photos can be printed using PictBridge5 on select Canon printers, including the new PIXMA MG6320 or PIXMA MX922 Wireless Photo All-In-One printers.
To make connecting easy, a new wireless history menu lists the last three connections used for uploading and sharing images. For users who want to share their images with friends and family, the advanced wireless functionality with social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube lets users comment directly from the camera. In addition, users can share images and directly comment to Facebook groups, so the effort of first sending the images to a smartphone, and then posting to Facebook is no longer necessary.
Additionally, with features such as an ECO Mode to help conserve battery life, an 8x-Optical Zoom with 28mm wide-angle lens, and 16-megapixel sensor with a DIGIC 4 Processor, the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera is a stylish, versatile and easy-to-use camera with advanced technologies for a great shot any time. Adding to its appeal, the camera also features Smart AUTO, which provides an effortless way to get great images in many situations. The 3-inch LCD screen and Intelligent IS also makes photographing easy, with a compact and sleek design. The PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera will be available in a variety of stylish colors: red, grey and silver and is scheduled to be available in February for an estimated retail price of $199.99.
PowerShot A2600 Digital Camera The PowerShot A2600 digital camera is an ideal user-friendly camera that creates high-quality images. It features a 16-megapixel sensor and 5x-Optical Zoom 28mm wide-angle lens to capture memories that last a lifetime. To make shooting simple, Smart AUTO automatically recognizes and chooses the best settings for 32 common shooting scenarios. 720p HD video is also available with a dedicated movie button to make memories come alive in vivid, lifelike detail. For users that are accustomed to the hustle and bustle of daily life, but looking to treasure those busy moments, the PowerShot A2600 digital camera also comes equipped with a new ECO mode that assists with battery conservation by turning off the 3.0 inch LCD screen when idle. In addition, Digital IS reduces the effect of camera shake and subject movement to help produce crisp, clear images. The PowerShot A2600 digital camera is scheduled to be available in February in five color options: black, silver, red, blue and pink, for an estimated retail price of $149.99.
PowerShot A1400 Digital Camera With an optical viewfinder, 16-megapixel sensor with a DIGIC 4 Processor, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera gives even the novice photographer the ability to capture spectacular images with ease. The 28mm wide-angle lens with 5x optical zoom aids in capturing great shots from a distance. The PowerShot A1400 digital camera is also equipped with HD Video, and ECO Mode that gives users a camera that is full of features, yet easy to use and economical, allowing for a high-quality imaging experience at a great value. In addition, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera is powered by two AA batteries, allowing for easy replacement whether you are away on an overseas vacation or spending the weekend camping. To make it possible to capture the most cherished moments, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera features Digital IS to help reduce the effects of camera shake and subject movement and a help button that gives users answers to common questions they may have about the camera’s many high-quality functions. For even more imaging options, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera includes scene modes such as fisheye effect, toy camera effect and monochrome that give users creative freedom. The PowerShot A1400 digital camera is scheduled to be available in February for an estimated retail price of $109.99.
Preorder Opportunities: PowerShot ELPH 130 IS Digital Camera: B&H | Adorama PowerShot A2600 Digital Camera: B&H | Adorama PowerShot A1400 Digital Camera: B&H | AdoramaNEW CANON POWERSHOT CAMERAS HELP CAPTURE HIGH-QUALITY IMAGES WITH SIMPLICITY
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 7, 2013 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS, A2600, and the A1400 digital cameras to capture emotions and memories to share in stunning quality. To give consumers a simple, yet enhanced image sharing experience, Canon’s built-in wireless1 functionality has evolved with new options that help make posting on social networking sites easy. Also for users who are constantly on the move, each of the new camera models are outfitted with ECO Mode, a new feature that provides approximately 30 percent longer battery life when enabled, allowing them to shoot more photos for a longer amount of time.
“Our new PowerShot models have advanced features that give photographers an enhanced high-quality imaging experience allowing them to fulfill their day-to-day photography needs, express their vision and tell their story with ease, at a great value,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communication Group, Canon U.S.A.”
PowerShot ELPH 130 IS Digital Camera The wireless functionality built into the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera is easy and intuitive and provides users with more connectivity options. With the download of the free Canon CameraWindow app2 from an Android™ or iOS® app store, users can connect to both iOS or AndroidTM smartphones and tablets3 to wirelessly transfer photos and videos from their camera to their device. This camera also has the ability to connect directly to social networking sites using Canon’s iMAGE GATEWAY4, making photos easily accessible and ready to share. In addition, the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera has the ability to connect to computers and select PowerShot cameras with wireless functionality, making it possible for images to be available in various locations. And for even more connectivity options, photos can be printed using PictBridge5 on select Canon printers, including the new PIXMA MG6320 or PIXMA MX922 Wireless Photo All-In-One printers.
To make connecting easy, a new wireless history menu lists the last three connections used for uploading and sharing images. For users who want to share their images with friends and family, the advanced wireless functionality with social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube lets users comment directly from the camera. In addition, users can share images and directly comment to Facebook groups, so the effort of first sending the images to a smartphone, and then posting to Facebook is no longer necessary.
Additionally, with features such as an ECO Mode to help conserve battery life, an 8x-Optical Zoom with 28mm wide-angle lens, and 16-megapixel sensor with a DIGIC 4 Processor, the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera is a stylish, versatile and easy-to-use camera with advanced technologies for a great shot any time. Adding to its appeal, the camera also features Smart AUTO, which provides an effortless way to get great images in many situations. The 3-inch LCD screen and Intelligent IS also makes photographing easy, with a compact and sleek design. The PowerShot ELPH 130 IS digital camera will be available in a variety of stylish colors: red, grey and silver and is scheduled to be available in February for an estimated retail price of $199.99.
PowerShot A2600 Digital Camera The PowerShot A2600 digital camera is an ideal user-friendly camera that creates high-quality images. It features a 16-megapixel sensor and 5x-Optical Zoom 28mm wide-angle lens to capture memories that last a lifetime. To make shooting simple, Smart AUTO automatically recognizes and chooses the best settings for 32 common shooting scenarios. 720p HD video is also available with a dedicated movie button to make memories come alive in vivid, lifelike detail. For users that are accustomed to the hustle and bustle of daily life, but looking to treasure those busy moments, the PowerShot A2600 digital camera also comes equipped with a new ECO mode that assists with battery conservation by turning off the 3.0 inch LCD screen when idle. In addition, Digital IS reduces the effect of camera shake and subject movement to help produce crisp, clear images. The PowerShot A2600 digital camera is scheduled to be available in February in five color options: black, silver, red, blue and pink, for an estimated retail price of $149.99.
PowerShot A1400 Digital Camera With an optical viewfinder, 16-megapixel sensor with a DIGIC 4 Processor, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera gives even the novice photographer the ability to capture spectacular images with ease. The 28mm wide-angle lens with 5x optical zoom aids in capturing great shots from a distance. The PowerShot A1400 digital camera is also equipped with HD Video, and ECO Mode that gives users a camera that is full of features, yet easy to use and economical, allowing for a high-quality imaging experience at a great value. In addition, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera is powered by two AA batteries, allowing for easy replacement whether you are away on an overseas vacation or spending the weekend camping. To make it possible to capture the most cherished moments, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera features Digital IS to help reduce the effects of camera shake and subject movement and a help button that gives users answers to common questions they may have about the camera’s many high-quality functions. For even more imaging options, the PowerShot A1400 digital camera includes scene modes such as fisheye effect, toy camera effect and monochrome that give users creative freedom. The PowerShot A1400 digital camera is scheduled to be available in February for an estimated retail price of $109.99.
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the new SIGMA USB DOCK, the accessory dedicated for Contemporary, Art, and Sports product lines that enables you to operate lens firmware update as well as customization including the focus setting.
By connecting the USB cable to a computer, SIGMA USB DOCK enables photographers to update the lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus. The adjustment is processed with special software (SIGMA Optimization Pro). The AF speed, focus limiter and OS function are also customizable for Sports lenses.
Sigma Announces Release of 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM / DC Macro HSM Lens
From Sigma:
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the new SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM / DC MACRO HSM, the large-aperture APS-C standard zoom lens with a focal range that covers all your everyday needs along with macro functionality.
The most important features for a standard zoom lens for digital single lens reflex camera is to achieve high image quality, to meet the needs in various occasions and to be handy and compact.
The SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM will clear away all the general concerns, such as a short minimum focusing distance, not a long enough focal length for telephoto shooting and a small aperture value. Mainly used for general-purpose photography, this everyday lens covers a range equivalent to 25.5-105mm on a 35mm camera. It’s surprisingly compact in size for a large-aperture lens that opens up to F2.8. Great for treasured snapshots of travel or family occasions, it also handles shots that are a little bit more creative. Designed to be the kind of lens you carry around with you all the time, it delivers simplicity and is so user-friendly it’s sure to satisfy even the most demanding of users.
Special Features:
Contemporary line can handle all sorts of photo opportunities Sigma is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines; Contemporary, Art and Sports. Featuring the very latest technology, and combining optical performance with compactness, the Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. Incorporating the very latest technology in these lenses, Sigma has solved the difficult problem of keeping size and weight low without compromising optical performance. The SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM is the first product from the Contemporary line. Featuring a wide zoom range, the lens has a focal range equivalent to 25.5-105mm on a 35mm lens.
Excellent for macro photography This lens’ minimum focusing distance is 22cm and the maximum magnification ratio is 1:2.8. At 70mm, the working distance becomes 5.52cm. When it comes to telephoto, it can shoot pictures with a similar sensation to a macro lens. Also, without the need to change the lens, it enables photographers to take a close up pictures of subjects such as jewelry and flowers. In order to secure a clear field of view, the design of this lens is very thorough, even down to the precise position of the engraved letters on the lens.
30% Smaller Than Conventional Models For a which is used lens used in everyday situations, the small size makes a big difference. By incorporating a smaller OS unit and optimizing the structure and power distribution of optical elements, the lens barrel has now become more compact. In order to ensure high accuracy of the product, the new compound material TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has high affinity to metal parts, is introduced for the lens barrel. It results in better durability of the parts and smaller zoom rings and scale rings. The dimension of this lens is 30% smaller than our conventional models.
Superior Image Quality Throughout The Entire Zoom Range This lens incorporates 2 FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite, 1 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element and 3 aspherical glass lenses including double sided aspherical lens. By optimizing the power alignment of the lens, both chromatic aberration of magnification and axial chromatic aberration have been corrected. From infinity to macro, it achieves superior image quality through entire zoom range. This lens offers extraordinary expressive power and is capable of surpassing the requirement of the rigorous checking process of our new MTF measuring system “A1”.
Large maximum aperture of F2.8 The aperture value is F2.8 at the wide end (17mm), and is F4 at the telephoto end (70mm). The bright viewfinder aids focusing and composition of images. The fast apertures also offer useful functions such as fast shutter speeds to prevent an object from being blurred and ensuring a smooth bokeh in the background.
Other Features:
Optical Stabilizer - Sigma’s own unique OS (Optical Stabilizer) function is incorporated. It offers effective correction of approximately 4 stops, which makes it possible to compensate for camera shake even in macro range photography where a small blur can be easily identified.
*1. The closer the lens is to the object, the less effective the OS function is. *2. For Sony and Pentax, OS function is not incorporated.
Flare and ghosting conscious design - In order to achieve high rendering on this flagship lens, flare and ghosting were thoroughly measured from an early stage to establish an optical design which is resistant to strong incident light such as backlight. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions.
Incorporating Rounded Diaphragm - The 7 blade-rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image.
Hyper Sonic Motor - The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures high speed and quiet AF as well as full-time manual focus override by rotation of the focus ring. With the enhanced AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved.
Brass made bayonet mount This lens incorporates a brass made bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and durability. A special treatment to reinforce its strength is applied to the surface giving it greater strength and making it highly resistant to long-term use.
Ease of use - The new product lines incorporate rubber for the attachment part of the provided lens hood. For better usability, the design of the lens cap and AF / MF changeover switch has been improved.
Newly developed “USB DOCK” exclusively for new product lines - Based on these new lines, we have developed special software (SIGMA Optimization Pro) that can update the lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus.
Evaluation with Sigma’s own MTF measuring system “A1” - We used to measure lens performance with MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we’ve now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. The SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM will all be checked using this “A1” before they are shipped.
“Made in Japan” - All Sigma's manufacturing – right down to molds and parts – is carried out under an integrated production system, entirely in Japan. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely "made in Japan". We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of Sigma products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world, because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.
Sigma Announces Release of 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Lens
From Sigma:
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the new SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM, the telephoto zoom lens that achieves superior performance redesigned to meet photographers' needs.
Conventionally, large aperture lenses for 300mm F2.8 have been loved by professional users due to their brilliant capability of depiction and bright aperture value. It has established a solid standpoint in the world of photography. Based on the concept that turning a 300mm F2.8 lens into zoom lens would enable photographers to expand the scope of shooting, we have developed 120-300mm F2.8 lenses and released them into the market. It is not simple to decide on a composition with a 300mm lens. Especially for sports and theatrical shows, shooting positions are almost always fixed and changing lenses could lead to missed photographs. By adding a zoom function with the large aperture 300mm F2.8 lens, it no longer requires other interchangeable lenses and rotation of the zoom ring will offer excellent framing. In other words, when conditions are difficult, this high-performance lens gives you more scope to express yourself in the shots you take.
Special Features:
Sports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance Sigma is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines; Contemporary, Art and Sports. While offering sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness, our Sports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get exactly the shots they want. With their high-level optical performance and expressive power, these lenses can capture fast-moving subjects, even at distance. This high-performance line also offers a variety of functions to aid the photographer in challenging conditions and scenarios. The SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM is the first product from the “Sports” line. Besides sports photography, the lenses are also perfect for nature shots featuring birds, wild animals and other wildlife, and for capture of aircraft, trains, racing cars and more. Another major feature of our Sports line lenses is their wide range of customization functions: using the software provided, all sorts of settings can be tailored to the personal preferences of the photographer.
Dust-proof and splash-proof construction For professional purposes, we have achieved excellent durability by incorporating dust-proof and splash-proof parts for joint parts, such as mount attachment, manual ring, zoom-ring, switches for customization and external switch panels. It prevents dust and dirt from entering the lens. Also, the usage of the zoom ring and focus ring is well positioned for shooting situations.
High image quality close to fixed focal length lens. This lens incorporates 2 FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite, 1 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element, and compensate for the color aberration at the utmost. The design also compensates for sagittal coma flare and minimizes the blurring of a point light source in peripheral areas. It offers very high image quality, close to fixed focal length lens.
Incorporation of focus limiter Excellent usability is achieved by incorporating inner focusing and zooming that requires no change in the length of the lens for focus and zoom. It is possible to use with a rounded filter, such as a Circular Polarizer, as the front part of the lens is fixed. Due to the focus limiter offering adjustable range of auto focusing, this lens can provide fast focus setting. The USB dock enables users to change the range of the auto focusing at the discretion of users' creativity.
Newly developed “USB DOCK” exclusively for new product lines Based on these new lines, we have developed special software (SIGMA Optimization Pro) that can update the lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus. In addition, the lenses from our Sports line have customizable AF speed, focus limiter and OS function. The “Custom Mode Switch” is the device for further customization on the dedicated lenses.
Ease of use Many parts of this lens have been designed for comfortable usage. For example, the design of the zoom ring is concerned with a texture when you hold it, the position of printed letters and the 4 control switches with integration-considered shape of the screws. Included accessories such as the removable lens hood and the newly designed tripod collar with strap ensure added ease of use.
Other Features:
Flare and ghosting conscious design - SIGMA’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. It provides sharp and high contrast images throughout the entire zoom range.
Excellent in handheld photography for telephoto shooting - This lens incorporates the OS system which offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible, ensuring the excellent use in handheld photography for telephoto shooting. The OS system has two modes - OS mode 1 is suitable for general photography, and OS mode 2 is best for panning shots of subjects such as planes or racing cars. It is possible to adjust the OS using the optional USB DOCK.
* This lens cannot be used with film SLR cameras with the exception of the Nikon F6, Canon EOS-1v.
Quiet and Fast AF - The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures high speed and quiet AF as well as full-time manual focus override by rotation of the focus ring. With the enhanced AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved. The full time manual, which offers further adjustment after focusing with AF mode, is possible. By using USB Dock, you can change and adjust the AF speed at your convenience.
Incorporating Rounded Diaphragm - The 9 blade-rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image.
APO Tele-Converter (Optional) - The addition of Sigma's 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO TELE CONVERTER produces a 168-420mm F4 AF telephoto zoom lens or a 240-600mm F5.6 AF telephoto zoom lens respectively.
Brass made bayonet mount - This lens incorporates a brass made bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and durability. A special treatment to reinforce its strength is applied to the surface giving it greater strength and making it highly resistant to long-term use.
Evaluation with Sigma’s own MTF measuring system “A1” - We used to measure lens performance with an MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we’ve now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. The SIGMA 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM will all be checked using this “A1” before they are shipped.
“Made in Japan” - All Sigma's manufacturing – right down to the molds and parts – is carried out under an integrated production system, entirely in Japan. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely "made in Japan". We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of Sigma products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world, because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.
The Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens results are remarkably better than the results from the replaced Canon EF 35mm f/2 Lens in the mid and peripheral (corner) areas of the image circle. Results in the center appear slightly better in the IS lens, but the differences are very slight - not surprising as the old lens was very sharp in the center.
Capture, Connect, and Share with Canon at 2013 CES
From Canon:
CAPTURE, CONNECT AND SHARE WITH THE LATEST CANON PRODUCTS AT THE 2013 CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW
Company Brings to Life “Image Incredible” through Interactive Experiences and Inspired End-User Photographs
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 4, 2013 - At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, January 8th, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, unveils the vision behind its 2013 lineup of connected digital cameras, camcorders and printers. Visitors to Canon’s booth (#13304) will be invited to explore “Image Incredible” with product demonstrations and on-site experiences designed to unlock creative potential and inspire users to express their individuality using the Company’s exceptional imaging technology products.
Upon entering the Canon booth, attendees will experience “Image Incredible” through inspiring visual displays, celebrity photographer guest speakers, staged performance showcases, interactive product demonstrations and social media activities. Canon’s mission to inspire creativity in customers of all levels will be seen throughout the show as end-user inspired images submitted to the “Project Imaginat10n” program will decorate the Company’s booth as well as adorn on-site advertising and signage as examples of how imaging inspires creativity in us all.
“Consumers are looking for higher performing and functioning products that work exceptionally on their own, as well as together, to push the boundaries of imagination and creativity,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A., “This year, we have created a space where this truly comes to life in unique and exciting ways, just like our products.”
Through interactive on-stage presentations, attendees will be immersed in the true meaning of “Image Incredible” as a series of end-user scenarios play out illustrating the various creative possibilities and wireless connectivity of Canon EOS cameras, PowerShot digital cameras, VIXIA camcorders and PIXMA printer products. Also on the Canon stage will be industry renowned photographers and cinematographers. Canon Explorers of Light (EOL) members, Jack Reznicki, Bruce Dorn, Vincent Laforet and Rick Sammon will be conducting presentations on various filmmaking and photographic techniques throughout the week. To further showcase the Canon booth theme, there will be a special gallery showcasing the works of various members of the EOL program.
Adding to the overall booth experience, attendees can touch-and-try a range of Canon high-performance optics and cameras by entering an in-booth tower that features 15 different EF lenses and DSLR cameras. Throughout the show, the Canon HD Theater will be showing a highlight reel of spectacular footage shot and captured on EOS and Cinema EOS equipment as the Company looks to enable both consumers and professionals to tell their story through video as well as still images.
To help bring the show experience to Canon fans, there will be a dedicated social media counter that will display Canon-related social media engagement through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and the Canon Forum. Please visit the following Canon U.S.A. social media sites:
Note: Reviews suggest the Flashpoint LP-E6 Replacement Batteries do not perform as well as the OEM batteries. However, considering the price, it might be worth purchasing the batteries to keep for emergency backup purposes.
Most of the retailers offer 2% Rewards and free shipping with purchase of the above lenses. One differentiating factor is that Adorama provides an extended warranty with membership in their VIP program after a small annual fee.
Here is the complete list of Canon Lens and Speedlight Rebates that are scheduled to end January 5:
Photography has been a benevolent tool for artists from Thomas Eakins and Edgar Degas to David Hockney. And to illustrators, always on the lookout for better ways to meet deadlines, the camera has long been a natural ally. But the thousands of photographs Norman Rockwell created as studies for his iconic images are a case apart. A natural storyteller, Rockwell envisioned his narrative scenarios down to the smallest detail. Yet at the easel he was an absolute literalist who rarely painted directly from his imagination.
Instead, he first brought his ideas to life in studio sessions, staging photographs that are fully realized works of art in their own right. Selecting props and locations, choosing and directing his models, he carefully orchestrated each element of his design for the camera before beginning to paint. Meticulously composed and richly detailed, Norman Rockwell’s study photographs mirror his masterworks in a tangible parallel universe. Photography opened a door to the keenly observed authenticity that defines Norman Rockwell’s art. And for us today it is a revelation to discover that so many of his most memorable characters were, in fact, real people.
Caveat Emptor: BigValueInc's positive feedback rating has dropped a bit recently - now at 98.1%. However, eBay seems to trust them enough to continue listing their auctions as "Daily Deals."