ColourCofindence announce monitor calibration webinar

Join Color Confidence as we present a FREE interactive webinar on Thursday 22nd July between 10.00am - 11.00am, on the importance of accurately calibrating your monitor, meaning you can watch and learn from the comfort of your own desk!

Are you frustrated by the images that you see on-screen not colour matching your actual shots?
Are you serious about improving the colour accuracy of your digital workflow?
Are you unsure how to calibrate and which solution may be right for you?
If the answer is yes, this webinar is definitely for you!

We explain why you should calibrate your monitor, show you how you do it and and take a look at a range of calibration solutions for every budget.

We discuss the importance of accurate monitor calibration
We demonstrate how you undertake monitor calibration using a range of industry leading soultions
We answer your questions in an interactive question and answer summary session
Attendees can take advantgae of some very special offers on the key calibration solutions
So register for this FREE webinar now!

But hurry, delegate space is limited, so book now to avoid disappointment.

ColourConfidence break out PChOOD range

Launched earlier in the year Birmingham-based colour management specialist, ColourConfidence, has announced the PChOOD range of monitor hoods are available now.

The PChOOD monitor hood range proves to be more than just a shade better, following its Spring launch

Birmingham, UK, 15th July 2010 - Europe's leading value added distributor into the colour management and digital imaging channels, Color Confidence, hail the launch of the PChOOD range of monitor hoods in Spring 2010, as one of their most successful product launches yet, with unprecedented post-launch customer interest, together with exceptional and growing sales through their expanding network of resellers and ColorStores. To learn more, visit: www.ColorConfidence.com/pchood

Photographers, designers and anyone interested in producing outstanding images are increasingly aware of the importance of accurate colour management, from capture through monitor to print. To ensure that the monitor stage of that workflow is as accurate as it possibly can be, the PChOOD range is an ideal solution, creating an optimum working environment for accurately viewing colours.

“The PChOOD range offers a definitive selection of monitor hoods which reduce glare and shield unwanted light from any monitor display and so improves on-screen colour accuracy” Comments Simon Prais, Technical Director Color Confidence “In addition, the PChOOD range offers numerous additional benefits including energy saving through reduced energy consumption .”

The complete PChOOD range offers a selection of monitor hood solutions in a variety of sizes and designs for both PC and Macintosh, including:

PChOOD Pro - A universal monitor hood, suitable for all LCD & CRT displays 15" - 26"
PC Laptop Hood - Portable flat-pack hoods in black, for laptops in various sizes (PC and Mac)
Mac Laptop Hood - Contemporary design, portable flat-pack, in matt silver effect to compliment Macintosh Laptops. In various sizes

The PChOOD range offers numerous benefits and features including:

Shield light from your monitor display, to provide optimum conditions for a colour accurate working environment
Allows you to set your display brightness lower and subsequently saves up to 40% of power consumption, which extends monitor life (and laptop power) and is great for the environment
Can help to reduce eye strain
Specially designed black velvet inner layer absorbs light and eliminates reflections
Removable access cover, for using a monitor calibrator such as ColorMunki, without removing the hood (on applicable models)

The PChOOD range is now in stock now and is available direct from www.ColourConfidence.com and our dealer network. dealer network.

Mamiya announce affordable pricing on DM22, 28 and 33 MFD systems

In a bid to rival that of studio-level DSLRs, Mamiya Digital Imaging have announced that the DM22, 28 and 33 MFD systems will be available at more affordable prices. The 22-megapixel DM22, for example is now listed at $9995/€6995.

Press release

Tokyo, New York, and Tel Aviv (PRWEB) July 14, 2010
Mamiya Digital Imaging today announced the first step in a global campaign to offer up-and-coming photographers creative freedom beyond their DSLR cameras. Following successful test marketing in the United States, Mamiya has announced that three of its popular medium format camera systems -- the Mamiya DM 22, DM28 and DM33 -- are now available worldwide at affordable prices.

Systems are based on a “Team Phase One” approach, which consists of technologies developed from Leaf, Mamiya and Phase One – companies that have decided to work together to offer the widest selection of choice to professional photographers. This approach achieves synergies in procurement, production, development, and service/support that help reduce costs and facilitate offering more affordable high quality digital camera solutions to customers.

The Mamiya DM 22 digital camera, for example, is available at a retail price as low as $9995/€6995. All systems feature the Mamiya 645DF camera body, proven digital back technology from Leaf Imaging, and Phase One Capture One software, the powerfully precise and flexible raw processing and image editing application. These camera systems are known for producing exceptional image quality, clarity and detail under many different conditions, and for offering a truly “eye-opening” shooting experience.
Mamiya customers also enjoy a wide range of lens choice -- more than 15 different lenses, including lightweight focal plane lenses and the new leaf shutter lenses designed in Germany by Schneider Kreuznach, which offer flash synchronization of up to 1/1,600 per second.

“We want to introduce the medium format ‘WOW’ sensation to more photographers, which is why we are offering equipment that’s affordable for up-and-coming pro shooters and passionate amateurs,” said Ziv Argov, marketing director for Mamiya. “Instead of purchasing a second DSLR, their new gear can introduce them to a new visual language that helps them realize an even more creative portfolio.”

“We offer proven, reliable technology, that’s designed and manufactured so that our customers are free to focus on capturing their visions,” said Mamiya president Toshio Midorikawa. “It’s not our cameras that take great pictures, it’s our customers who do."
“We are very enthused about the success of Mamiya DM systems in the United States,” said Jan Lederman, president of Mamiya America. “It is exciting that photographers worldwide now will have the opportunity to own such powerful digital camera systems at such affordable prices.”

Technical highlights include superior performance data, such as high resolution, richly detailed files up to 190MB 16bit TIFF per image. Each system features the largest medium format touch screen display (6x7cm) available for simple handling. The 645DF camera is designed to be the most reliable and durable medium format camera on the market.
Pricing and Availability The Mamiya DM 22, 28 and 33 medium format digital camera systems are available now. For detailed product specifications and where to buy, please visit http://www.mamiya.com About Mamiya Digital Imaging For almost 70 years, Mamiya has been a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in professional photographic cameras and lenses. Mamiya Digital Imaging is dedicated to the professional and advanced amateur markets.

Mamiya continues to be a pioneer by continually improving and refining the finest professional photographic products with state-of-art advancements such as superior apochromatic lens technology and practical, ergonomic camera design and function. For Mamiya it’s always been about one thing: the love of photography. A passion shared by enthusiastic owners of Mamiya cameras all over the world.

For more information visit www.mamiya.com.

Corel call for entries in Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge

Corel Corp, best known for its CorelDRAW, PaintShop Pro, and Corel Painter utilities, is calling for entries to its Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge. Corel is looking to showcase work made with its software and the contest is open in the US, UK, Canada and Germany. Deadline for participation is 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on August 31, 2010. Prizes valued at more than $25,000 are up fro grabs. For more information please see the press release below.
Press release

Ottawa, ON (Vocus) July 14, 2010
Corel’s Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge is looking to discover and showcase some of the extraordinary and inspiring work made in Corel software every day. Whether you’re someone who makes a living from your creations or you create art for the love of it, you’re invited to enter your best work created using Corel software! If you simply want to enjoy what others have created, just visit the site and vote on your favorites for a chance to win.
“With Corel’s Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge, we’re looking to discover and celebrate some of the extraordinary individuals who use Corel software in unique and inspiring ways,” said Nick Davies, Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing at Corel. “As we celebrate our 25th birthday, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the talent and skills of our community as we thank them for their loyalty and longstanding support.”
Enter for Your Chance to Win!
You are invited to participate in one of two ways:
1) Design your creation in one of Corel’s products and upload your entry to www.corelquestforthebest.com to have a chance to win one of the great prizes being awarded for the top 25 entries.
2) Visit www.corelquestforthebest.com to pick your favorite submissions. Just register and vote to enter the contest sweepstakes and have a chance to win one of 10 HP® Mini Netbooks drawn at random.
Don't delay! The contest is open in the US, UK, Canada and Germany. Deadline for participation is 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on August 31, 2010.
Exciting Prizes Valued at More than $25,000!
Corel’s Quest for the Best prizes include: an HP® Pavilion Elite 390t desktop computer, Wacom® tablets, Nikon® D700™ Digital SLR camera and Nikkor® lens, Nikon® COOLPIX® cameras, Apple® iPad™, Flip UltraHD™ Camcorder, HP® Mini Netbooks and Corel software packages, including CorelDRAW® Graphics Suite X5, Corel® Painter™ 11, Corel® PaintShop Photo® Pro X3 and Corel® VideoStudio® Pro X3.
To mark our 25th birthday and thank all of the customers who have supported us through the years, Corel will be launching a series of special promotions and activities through the remainder of 2010. Please stay tuned to www.corel.com/25 for more detail or follow us @corelsoftware on Twitter.
Contest participants can find free trial versions of the latest Corel creative products including CorelDRAW® Graphics Suite X5, Corel® Painter™ 11 and Corel® PaintShop Photo® Pro X3 at www.corel.com/freetrials.
For full contest details, please visit www.corelquestforthebest.com.

PhotoVoice add training workshops

PhotoVoice, the UK charity providing training for socially excluded groups, has announced a number of dates for workshops in September and November. For more details and to book your place, please see the press release below.

Press release

BOOKING NOW FOR PHOTOVOICE TRAINING WORKSHOPS, SEPTEMBER AND NOVEMBER 2010

Designing and running participatory photography projects

3 days: September 14, 15 & 17 (PVWT 006)
3 days: November 17, 18 & 19 (PVWT 009)

These three day workshops provides an overview of participatory photography methods and the key elements of designing, running and
facilitating a participatory photography project. It is aimed at those who want to gain a solid understanding of the processes involved in
working with participatory photography and is ideal for practitioners and professionals looking to embark on their own projects. Participants
will learn about the key aspects of participatory photography, considerations for designing projects, what is involved in running projects and
facilitation techniques. We focus on the key things you need to consider to design and deliver a participatory photography project, and
provide resources to games and activities that can be used in workshops.

Introduction to participatory photography methods
No photographic experience required
1 Day: September 22 2010 (PVWT 007)

This one day workshop provides an introduction to participatory photography for social change practitioners. It is aimed at those who do not
ordinarily work with photography and digital media and are keen to gain an overview of the processes, principles and key elements of
participatory photography methodology.

Introduction to participatory photography for photographers and visual practitioners

1 Day: November 10 2010 (PVTW008)

This one day workshop provides an introduction to participatory photography. It is aimed at those with visual backgrounds who already have
an understanding of working with photography and are keen to gain an overview of the processes, principles and key elements of
participatory photography methodology, with a focus on participation and facilitation.

Please visit the website for full details and to book your place.

Westcott announces new distribution partner JP Distribution in UK and Ireland

Well known in the USA for their affordable lighting modifiers and studio equipment, Westcott are now being distributed in the UK by Johnsons Photopia Limited (JP Distribution). For users who may not be aware, JP Distribution are the official distributor in the UK for Mamiya, Pocket Wizard and Billingham bags amongst others including, until only recently, rival Lastolite, so the addition of Westcott seems timely.

Westcott announces new distribution partner JP Distribution in UK and Ireland

TOLEDO, Oh. – June 15 2010 – The F.J. Westcott Company (Westcott) is proud to announce a new distribution partner in the UK and Ireland, Johnsons Photopia Limited (JP Distribution). Westcott believes with JP Distribution’s current product range, excellent customer service, aggressive marketing outreach and vast dealer base, they were a perfect fit for bringing both the core product line and new consumer based product line to the UK market.
JP Distribution will be carrying the full Westcott and Photo Basics product lines, giving dealers and customers in the UK and Ireland the ability to view, showcase and purchase the wide range of Westcott branded products. “We are looking forward to an exciting future with this new relationship,” said Kelly Mondora, Vice President at Westcott.

For more information, please visit www.johnsons-photopia.co.uk.

 

 

Digital Photographer magazine calls for entries in DPOTY 2010 competition

Digital Photographer magazine is calling for entries in its annual DPOTY (Digital Photographer of the Year) competition. From today, entrants can submit images in as many as six different categories, with the overall winner receiving a Samsung NX10 hybrid, three lenses and a flashgun kit. The winners of each of the six categories will receive a Samsung EX1 high-end digital compact camera. For more information please see the press release and link below.

 

The hugely popular Digital Photographer of the Year Awards returns for 2010 – this time with backing from photography giant, Samsung

Imagine Publishing and Samsung are joining forces to launch the fourth annual Digital Photography of the Year awards, with better prizes and categories than ever before. Fresh from celebrating over one million copy sales earlier this year, Digital Photographer magazine anticipates record a number of submissions for the competition in 2010, with the overall winner receiving a Samsung NX10, three lenses and a flashgun kit. Six category winners will each receive a Samsung EX1 camera.

Rosie Tanner, Editor of Digital Photographer, is brimming with expectation for DPOTY ’10: “The DPOTY awards offer digital photographers a fantastic platform to showcase their work across a wide range of categories. It’s an amazing opportunity for fresh talent to emerge and we can’t wait to celebrate new and undiscovered digital photographers. The fact that such a prestigious camera company like Samsung is supporting the awards is a huge compliment. Its support means the competition and prizes will be better than ever before.”

Since its launch back in 2007, the DPOTY awards has seen year-on-year success and is now widely recognised by the photography industry as one of the top photographic competitions of its kind. The judging panel for the 2010 awards features some of the country’s top photographic professionals including big names such as Guardian Picture Editor, Eamonn McCabe and pro photographer, William Cheung FRPS.

The call for entries opens on the 15 July, which coincides with the on-sale date of Digital Photographer issue 98. In contrast to previous years, the format of the awards for 2010 will see a brand new competition category launched in each issue of the magazine. There will be six photographic categories in total – each designed to push the creativity of photographers. The categories are:

The Big Picture – Landscapes

Strike a Pose – Portraits

Wild at Heart – Wildlife/nature

Location, Location – Travel

Capture the Action – Motion/action

Get Creative – Creative/image editing/HDR

Rosie Tanner added, “The categories we’ve picked this year are reflective of the creative capabilities of Samsung’s fantastic NX10 and EX1 cameras. There is definitely a category to suit every photographic taste, so we look forward to seeing a broad range of subject matter.”

Steve Mitchell, General Manager Marketing, Samsung Digital Imaging said: “Samsung is proud to be part of Digital Photographer of the Year 2010. We have a longstanding relationship with Digital Photographer magazine and we are particularly pleased to have been chosen by the team to be the main sponsor of DPOTY.

The Digital Photographer of the Year competition showcases some of the most exciting photographs every year and with the creative possibilities offered by the Samsung camera range it is a perfect partnership which will inspire any photographer. We are looking forward to judging and awarding the very best photography in this year’s competition.”

For all the details on how to enter, look out for Digital Photographer issue 98 on sale 15 July 2010 or head online to www.DPhotographer.co.uk.

Canon to sponsor The Times Young Photographer of the Year 2010 competition

Canon has announced today that it will sponsor The Times Young Photographer of the Year competition for second consecutive year.

UK and Ireland, 15th July 2010. Canon UK today announced that for the second consecutive year it is to sponsor The Times newspaper’s search for The Times Young Photographer of the Year.

Now in its 9th year, the competition seeks to find the country’s best young photographer. The eventual winner will secure a 6 month placement with The Times newspaper where they will be trained in the skills of a photojournalist. In addition to the placement the winner will also receive an award-winning EOS 5D Mark II camera body, EF 24-70 f/2.8 lens, EF 70-200 f/2.8 IS lens and a Canon 580EX II Speedlite flash. Each of the six finalists will also receive a year’s membership to the British Press Photographer’s Association.

Last year the competition was won by Matthew Lloyd who says of his experience at the newspaper “Working for The Times has been a fantastic experience. I’ve been allowed the freedom to do the job and shoot creatively whilst gaining invaluable support and feedback from the team there. My top tip for entrants this year is ask others to take a look at the photos you are thinking of entering and get as much experience as you can and try to understand the industry.”

The competition will be launched in The Times on 16th July and will run until 31st August 2010. During September, judging will commences and 6 finalists will be selected and set an assignment by Paul Sanders, Picture Editor of The Times.

The finalists will have their work displayed at Canon’s Pro Photo Solutions exhibition at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London on 26 and 27th October. The winner will be unveiled there in a reception hosted by the Editor of The Times, James Harding.

The judging panel will be co-chaired by Paul Sanders and Nick Millen from Canon Professional Imaging.

Paul Sanders, Picture Editor of The Times says: “Winning this competition has become one of the most prestigious prizes for young photographers; it has a proven pedigree of placing young talent in a position to fulfill their dreams. Each of the previous winners has gone on to launch very successful careers in news photography. With the continued support of Canon we are able to offer even greater support to the winner to establish themselves as professional photographers”.

Lee Bonniface, Country Director Canon Consumer Imaging, UK and Ireland said. “We were extremely impressed with the calibre of last year’s finalists and by the talent shown by the overall winner Matthew Lloyd. Canon UK is very proud to again be supporting the competition and helping to give a talented young photographer a solid start to their career”

For further details about the competition please visit:
www.timesonline.co.uk/youngphotographer

Sony unveils NEX-system camcorder with interchangeable lenses

Sony has announced the NEX-VG10E, the world's first consumer-orientated camcorder with APS-C size sensor and interchangeable lenses. The lens mount is the same as that of the company's NEX mirrorless cameras and is fully compatible with the three lenses launched with those models. It will be available at the end of September and, while the price has not been confirmed, it's expected to be in the region of €2000 / $2000 c/w the NEX 28-300mm f3.5/6.3 (35mm equivalent) zoom lens.
Press release:

SONY UNVEILS WORLD’S FIRST CONSUMER INTERCHANGEABLE LENS HD CAMCORDER

Handycam® NEX-VG10E captures cinematic Full HD movie and stereo sound

· 14.2 effective megapixel ExmorTM APS HD CMOS sensor (19.5 times larger than conventional camcorder) for stunning HD movies with beautiful background defocus
· Accepts E-mount and A-mount interchangeable lenses (using adaptor)
· High quality audio with Quad Capsule Spatial Array Stereo Microphone and external mic input
· 7.5cm (3 inch-type) Xtra Fine LCD and electronic viewfinder

Building on 25 years of continuous Handycam innovation, Sony introduces the NEX-VG10E – the world’s first consumer HD camcorder with interchangeable lenses. It’s also the first Handycam to feature an extra-large Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, allowing the creation of cinematic background defocus effects.

Targeting video enthusiasts and photographers, the NEX-VG10E opens up unprecedented artistic possibilities not achievable with conventional consumer video cameras.

Compatible with a choice of high quality E-mount lenses, it’s the first consumer camcorder that offers the same breadth of creative expression enjoyed by DSLR photographers. Alongside the three currently available E-mount lenses, users of the NEX-VG10E can experience a wide variety of A-mount DSLR optics used on α cameras by using the optional LA-EA1 mount adaptor. Picking from a choice of award-winning Sony G lenses, fixed-focal length Carl Zeiss portrait lenses and other models from macro to super-telephoto, videographers will have unprecedented freedom to explore an exciting world in movie creation.

At the heart of the NEX-VG10E is a 14.2 effective megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor that’s teamed with Sony’s powerful BIONZTM processor to capture very high resolution video and still images. Approximately 19.5 times bigger than the standard sensor found in other consumer camcorders, the APS-C sized imager also enables an extremely shallow depth of field. This allows videographers to achieve ‘cinematic’ results with beautiful background defocus (bokeh). In addition, the ability to capture DSLR-quality still images gives videographers extra shooting flexibility on assignment with less to carry.

Full HD 1920x1080 video images are captured in AVCHDTM format at up to the maximum 24 Mbps bit rate for superlative detail and clarity. Unlike many digital still cameras including DSLR that support HD video, there’s virtually no restriction on continuous shooting time. Just slip in your choice of either Memory Stick PRO DuoTM or SD media cards and capture Full HD video and JPEG still images for easy transfer into your existing PC storage and editing environment.

The NEX-VG10E comes supplied as standard with an image-stabilised E18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens that offers a powerful 11x optical zoom range. Because of its optimised design for video shooting, this high-quality E-mount lens offers smooth, ultra low noise autofocus and iris control. In-built Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation assures clearer video images when you’re shooting handheld. At wide angle settings, Active Mode enhances anti-shake performance even further, steadying jittery images even while walking. The lens also features a circular aperture for the creation of beautiful bokeh effects whether you’re shooting video or stills.

Reflecting the demands of serious videographers, sound quality matches the phenomenal imaging performance of the NEX-VG10E. The Quad Capsule Spatial Array Stereo Microphone uses advanced processing algorithms to combine signals from four separate omnidirectional microphone capsules. The result is exceptionally clear stereo audio with a highly directional response: this allows videographers to capture more sound from the subject they’re shooting, and fewer distracting sounds around them. There’s also a jack for adding an optional external stereo mic, plus a headphone jack for audio monitoring.

With a photo-realistic 921k dot resolution, the 7.5cm/3 inch-type Xtra Fine LCD features TruBlackTM technology for an exceptionally detailed, high contrast view of images and menu settings. The LCD is supplemented by a high-resolution (1152k dot) electronic viewfinder that assists easy framing and monitoring. The viewfinder helps the operator capture clear images in bright daylight and its angle can be easily adjusted for comfortable operation.

Despite its groundbreaking creative possibilities, the NEX-VG10E is compact, beautifully balanced and easy to handle, even for novice videographers. An intuitive jog dial and hotkeys make it easy to navigate camera menus and adjust shooting parameters. Videographers can also enjoy precise manual control over Iris, Shutter Speed, Gain and White Balance for professional results.

A range of official accessories includes the ECM-CG50 Shotgun Microphone that attaches to the camcorder’s accessory shoe. There’s also a choice of rechargeable battery options, including the NP-FV100 that provides power for up to 330 minutes of continuous HD shooting. A dedicated soft carrying case the LCS-VCD, is also available as an option.

Offered to customers as a free download, Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum 10 video editing software includes everything you need to produce spectacular HD movies. Powerful tools for video compositing, colour correction and sound mixing make it easy to achieve cinema-quality results in your own home studio. You can also upload movies to web, burn them to Blu-ray Disc™ or author DVDs with custom menus and graphics.

The Handycam NEX-VG10E interchangeable lenses Full HD camcorder will be available at the end of September 2010.

Nikon to launch mirror-less camera at Photokina?

According to this report from Bloomberg, Nikon is preparing a new mirror-less camera. If it's going to happen, expect to see it announced at this year's Photokina in Cologne in a couple of months time.

Can't take decent snaps without an expensive camera - think again

To prove it's all about the light, not how much the camera or lens costs, professional photographer Lee Morris over at Fstoppers.com has produced a rather slick video of how he conducted a photo-shoot using an Apple iPhone 3Gs in his studio. And, before detractors point out the lighting gear Morris has at his disposal, it's really not a valid argument. Besides, it's a great opportunity to see how a professional photographer lights his subject, even if does have to use hot lights instead of the more usual strobe.

For more information, including hi-res images from the photo shoot, head over to Fstoppers.

Mamiya offers $1000 trade-in for RZ33 MFDC

Photographers who purchase a new Mamiya RZ33 camera kit between July 2010 and the end of September 2010 can trade-in their existing RZ67 or RB67 and qualify for a $1000 credit towards the new camera.

Elmsford, NY (PRWEB) July 8, 2010 -- Mamiya announces today a new trade-in program created to make its new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit even more affordable. Designed specifically for existing owners of Mamiya RB67 and RZ67 film-based camera systems, this new trade-in program allows photographers to update their equipment to the latest digital version of the legendary Mamiya RZ system at an exceptionally reasonable price.

 

Mamiya Announces $1,000 Trade-in Program for the New RZ33 Medium Format Digital Camera
From July 2010 until September 30, 2010, photographers who purchase a new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit can trade in their existing RZ67 or RB67 camera body for a credit of $1,000 towards the purchase of their new Mamiya RZ33. There is a limit of one trade-in per RZ33 purchased.
“The positive response to the announcement of the new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit has been overwhelming among existing Mamiya RB and RZ owners,” says Mamiya Product Marketing Manager Mike Edwards. “Photographers are eager to update their equipment to the new digital RZ33, but still want to make good use of their previous RB or RZ67 camera body. Our new trade-in program gives these photographers the perfect way to do this, and makes transitioning to the new Mamiya RZ digital system even more affordable.”

About the Mamiya RZ33
The Mamiya RZ33 is a new large-sensor digital camera kit featuring a high performance 33 megapixel CCD sensor. This new camera advances the long adored Mamiya RZ line to a new level, bringing the famous ease-of-use and versatility of the Mamiya RZ camera system to the large-sensor digital arena. With no cables necessary, RZ33 users simply add their favorite razor sharp RZ lens and a CF card, and they are ready to produce large, detailed, and gorgeous images. The RZ33 leverages the large availability of lenses and accessories from the previous generations of the Mamiya RZ67 family, allowing photographers to utilize premium-level equipment they already own.

Pricing and Availability
The new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit, including Capture One and Leaf Capture software, will be available in the U.S. this month for $17,990. Photographers taking advantage of the $1,000 trade-in program will simply coordinate the trade-in with their authorized Mamiya Digital Dealer at the time of the new RZ33 transaction.

For more information visit http://www.mamiya.com.

NEC unwraps new 27-inch display for imaging pros

NEC Display Solutions has announced a new high-end monitor for color critical work using 10--bit P-IPS panel capable of exceeding the gamut of Adobe RGB. For more info including piece and availability, please see the press release below.

NEC Display Solutions defines the benchmark in the new 27” class of colour-critical desktop displays

New NEC SpectraView® Reference 271

London, 8 July 2010 – With the SpectraView® Reference 271, NEC Display Solutions is proud to unveil its first 27” wide-format LCD in its next generation line of Professional Colour Management Displays. The hardware-calibratable display features a state of the art 10-bit P-IPS* Panel able to reproduce 1.07 billion colours and 107% of Adobe RGB colour space for class leading colour accuracy. In addition, the impressive resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels makes it perfect for stringent pre-press and soft-proofing applications as well as demanding photographic image reproduction and video editing. The display comes with a 6 months pixel failure warranty starting from the date of purchase.

The high-end LCD possesses all the well established professional features and qualities common to the SpectraView® Reference series, including a 3D LUT** for separate colour space emulations, a 14-bit LUT to achieve an accurate colour calibration via gamma correction and the NEC Lab ‘Profiler’ software to create the 16-bit ICC profile as part of the colour workflow.

A large size desktop image, coming with a light protection hood, and the high resolution additionally make the NEC SpectraView® Reference 271 of particular interest for professional photographers, media designers and graphic designers. Effective features such as the picture-in-picture function for the simple, simultaneous display of numerous program windows, or the programmable USB for controlling multiple PC platforms makes content-rich and diverse working a breeze, boosting the user’s productivity. The Backlight Ageing Correction helps to ensure stable picture quality, constant white point and brightness over the display’s entire lifetime. The stand, which is height-adjustable by up to 150 mm, as well as the stunning P-IPS image quality guarantees comfortable working – even for extended periods. Users also benefit from the flexible connectivity options, which include the future-proof DisplayPort connection as well as two DVI-D ports.

“The SpectraView Reference 271 is a particular exciting development in format, technology, and design,” says Christopher Parker, Product Line Manager for Professional Displays at NEC Display Solutions. “We are convinced that our customers will be utterly won over through the combination of high-performance P-IPS image reproduction, powered by the NEC chassis electronics and visible with the amazing new high resolution format.”

*P-IPS = performance in-plane switching, **LUT = lookup table

Availability, price and warranty

The NEC SpectraView® Reference 271 is available as from now in black, at a price of £1,549.00 (inc. VAT). The package includes NEC’s SpectraView® Profiler 4.1 software on CD, light protection hood, an individual SpectraView® certification report, providing proof of the individual performance of each screen, a power cable, DisplayPort and DVI-D cable, comprehensive manual for the monitor and software, and CD containing the installation software and drivers. NEC Display Solutions Europe offers a three-year warranty including backlights (as well as a 5 years optional warranty) and a 6 months warranty against pixel failure from the date of purchase.

More information can be found here.

To buy from a respected UK retailer (ColourConfidence), please follow the link here.

For US purchases, please use the B&H link on the site, or follow the link here.

If you're a UK-based Mac user and intend to connect the display to your Mini-DisplayPort, you'll require a reliable adaptor. Please follow the link here.

Ricoh announces GXR and S10 unit available in kit

Previously only available separately, the Ricoh GXR body and S10 lens module are now available as a kit. The price will be 599 Euros (£496 equivalent, potentially saving £244 buying separately) but the UK price is still be to confirmed. The kit will be available from July 16th.

Ricoh announces the GXR＋S10 KIT

A camera kit that includes the GXR and RICOH LENS S10 24-72 mm F2.5-4.4 VC

 

Tokyo, Japan, July 6, 2010—Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announced the release of the new GXR+S10 KIT, a camera kit that combines the GXR body and the “RICOH LENS S10 24-72 mm F2.5-4.4 VC”* GXR camera unit featuring a high-performance 3x wide-angle zoom lens.

*The “VC” designation indicates that this unit has the Vibration Correction function developed independently by Ricoh.

*The GXR+S10 KIT includes both the GXR body and RICOH LENS S10 24-72 mm F2.5-4.4 VC in a single package.

The GXR+S10 KIT is the second GXR and camera unit kit product, following the popular GXR+P10 KIT, which is already on sale. As GXR basic kits, these two kits can be used immediately upon purchase so they make it easier for a wider range of customers to buy and use the GXR.

For Full Information, please see:
URL: http://www.ricoh.com/r_dc/gxr/

 

Travel photographer Rick Sammon shares view on Lexar memory cards

Lexar Elite photographer Rick Sammon has produced a short video explaining why Lexar compact-flash cards work for him.

Nikon rolls out 33rd NPCI

Nikon has announced their prestigious NPCI (Nikon Photo Contest - International) for 2010-2011, with the Grand Prize including a D3s, AF-S 24mm f/1.4G and 24-70mm f/2.8G for the overall winner. For more information including submission details and online entry, please see here.

Olympus announces cash-back on E-PL1

Olympus UK has announced a £75 cashback offer on the purchase on either a E-PL1 body or kit from authorized stockists. The offer will run in the UK and Ireland and is valid on purchases made up to 31st August 2010.

More details on the offer and how to claim are available at www.olympus.co.uk/promotion

Kata rolls out the Beetle

Stills and video camera bag specialist, Kata, has wheeled out the new Beetle backpack, which they claim conforms to most airlines carry-on restrictions. The Pro Light Beetle-282 is capable of carrying a 17-inch laptop, a couple of camera bodies and a lens up to 300mm. For a shade under £270 inc VAT, the pack is also compatible with the Kata Insertrolley option, making it a breeze when navigating the busy check-in. For more information, please see the press release below.

Press release:

Carry On Convenience for both DSLR and HVD with the new Kata Beetle!

29 June 2010
Kata has done it again with another brand new feature-packed backpack – the Pro Light Beetle-282 – yet another super-light and protective camera bag from the Kata stable, which offers unrivaled protection for your camera gear.

Perfect for travel, this new backpack manufactured in the latest lightweight ripstop fabric, is suitable carry on for most airlines* and can hold an impressive array of kit.

The Beetle 282 can house up to 2 or 3 DSLR bodies with a further four to six lenses (right up to 300mm), plus additional room for a laptop (up to 17”) and all the necessary accessories.

Alternatively – with totally adjustable inner dividers - the bag is also suitable for HD Video cameras or a combination of both video and stills equipment – the choice is yours!

This brand new backpack incorporates Kata’s brand new Gecko harness system for ultimate comfort on the go. The Gecko EVA foam harness straps provide extra cushioning where it counts, micro hatch texture ensures straps say put, and the harness moulds to fit your own individual shape without any pinching. The adjustable hip belt is designed to transfer the weight of your gear from your back to your hips and a sternum strap adjusts to various heights to ensure individual comfort. There’s also a clever camera attachment device which enables you to take the weight of the camera on the harness, rather than around your neck.

The Beetle also boasts Kata’s new Aerifoam dividers – which while still providing 100% of the protection are 25% lighter, together with a new foam encased spring-steel Spine Guard feature, which gives the Beetle the ultimate in structural protection.

And as you’d expect from a Kata backpack, there’s two different ways to attach a tripod (on the front and on the side), together with Kata’s unique Elements Cover for added protection in even the harshest environments. The Elements Cover, which folds away neatly into its own pouch, is black on one side and silver the other – great for reflecting heat away or providing additional protection from the weather.

Perfect for the demanding pro or keen enthusiast photographer, the Beetle-282 is also compatible with Kata’s Insertrolly, so can easily be transformed into a rolling bag for when four wheel drive is an option!

To find out where you can get your hands on one of these hi-tech new backpacks visit www.kata-bags.com or call 01293 583300

*Always check with the specific airline you are traveling with as regulations often change.

SRP for the Kate Beetle-282 PL is £269.95 inc VAT .

Leica Tweet for Charity

Fundraising on Twitter for Leica enthusiasts’ charity initiative

29 June 2010

Starting on 30 June 2010, Leica Camera AG will donate € 0.50 (0.50 Euros) to the UK-based Association for International Cancer Research (AICR) for every new follower of Leica’s Twitter account http://www.twitter.com/leica_camera (@leica_camera). Leica will donate an additional € 1,000 to the AICR upon reaching 10,000 followers by 9 July 2010.

The charity project for the benefit of international cancer research is part of an initiative that was launched by Leica enthusiast photographers who met on the independent International Leica User Forum (http://www.l-camera-forum/leica-forum/).

At the cornerstone of the project is the Leica User Forum Charity Book 2010, which is available through online publishing company, Blurb: http://www.tinyurl.com/LUFBOOK2010. The book is 172 pages long and includes a broad variety of images taken by 101 Leica Forum members. A significant donation from the participating photographers, as well as € 6 from the € 95 price of the book, will benefit the AICR. More than € 9,000 has already been raised.

Leica Forum member, Bill Palmer, who came up with the idea of the photo book, said, “We simply wanted to showcase the talent of the photographers on the forum, whilst simultaneously raising money for a good cause. The response was overwhelming, both in the number and the quality of images submitted from contributors worldwide.”

Norman Barrett, AICR’s chief executive said, “This impressive work will provide essential income to help us assist scientists across the globe in their efforts to understand and answer some of the most complicated questions in their field.”

Leica Camera chief executive, Rudolf Spiller, also commented, “I am delighted that we can contribute to an initiative that perfectly illustrates the spirit of the Leica user community. The project combines social responsibility, creative excellence and dedication to Leica cameras and lenses. Our customers are the best!”

Detailed information on the fund raising campaign and the photo book, including news, interviews and photos will be posted on the Leica Camera Blog at: http//blog.leica-camera.com and the Leica web site at http://www.leica-camera.com. Details will also be posted on Twitter and Facebook at: http://www.twitter.com/leica_camera and http://www.facebook.com/Lei

DxO Labs add lens testing to DxOMark

Earlier in the week DxO Labs, the software company behind DxO Optics Pro Raw workflow utility and latterly the DxOMark database of camera sensor performance measurements, has added lens testing to assess image-quality of specific lens-camera combinations. The listings aren't at this time exhaustive, being mainly Nikon and Canon models to start, but that will surely change over time.

DxOMark 2010 introduces comprehensive lens measurements and score system to assess optics and cameras image quality

DxOMark’s unique RAW-based measurements now available for each specific lens-camera combination

June 22, 2010 – DxO Labs today unveiled DxOMark 2010, the new version of its successful dxomark.com website, adding objective RAW-based lens performance measurements to its existing database of camera sensor measurements. DxOMark 2010 also proposes fifteen different DxOMark Scores to assess the various aspects of image quality and to help rank and compare lenses and cameras.

Freely accessible, DxOMark is designed to serve the entire imaging community, particularly serious and demanding photographers along with photography experts and journalists.

About the new DxOMark 2010 Measurement Database

Initially covering about 540 cameras-lens combinations, with dozens to follow each month, DxOMark measurement database is the ultimate source of objective, independent metrics on camera image quality. In order to guarantee the accuracy and consistency of its database, DxO Labs, an industry leader in Image Quality Evaluation, performs all measurements in its own labs, never relying on any manufacturer data. DxO Labs uses state-of-the-art equipment and open measurement protocols compliant with international and industry standards.

DxOMark measurements are performed on RAW images and are specific to each lens-camera combination. “We found that the same lens can produce big differences in image quality performance when coupled with different camera bodies, which is why DxO Labs has taken the time and trouble to evaluate lens-camera combinations instead of testing lenses and bodies on their own,” said Nicolas Touchard, Vice President of Marketing, DxO Labs Image Quality Evaluation.

About the new DxOMark 2010 Scores

To complement the lens and camera sensor Measurement Database, DxOMark also proposes fifteen Scores to help users to quickly assess and compare the intrinsic RAW performance of lenses and cameras. These Scores are based either on photographic Use Cases such as Travel, Portrait, Landscape, etc., or key optical metrics such as resolution, distortion, etc., allowing fair and objective comparisons of photographic equipment within the context of specific needs.

About DxOMark

Sponsored by DxO Labs, DxOMark is the reliable, objective, manufacturer-independent source of information about camera and lens image quality that demanding photographers can trust.

There are many valuable resources available through traditional and web media to help assess the image quality of digital cameras, but only DxOMark consistently uses RAW data. DxOMark thus makes it possible for photographers who shoot in RAW to assess the intrinsic quality of their lenses and cameras before the impact of any RAW conversion.

DxOMark measurements rely on DxO Analyzer, the world’s leading turn-key laboratory solution for image quality evaluation. Thanks to its accuracy, completeness, and reliability, DxO Analyzer has become the reference tool for numerous leading imaging industry players, photography magazines, and websites

OWC announce conversion kit for second drive in Apple MacBook and MacBook Pro computers

US-based retailer Other World Computing (OWC) has announced a $79.99 conversion bracket kit to replace the internal optical drive of Apple MacBook and MacBook Pro laptops. The bracket, aimed at pro-shooters and retouchers, accommodates a second hard drive or Solid State Drive (SSD) for up to 640GB additional capacity, or RAID array.

For more information, please read the press release below:

Press release:

June 24, 2010, Woodstock, IL -- Other World Computing (OWC®) http://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac® and PC technology company, today announced the OWC Data Doubler™, an optical bay mounting solution for MacBook or MacBook Pro notebook computers that enables users to add a second hard drive or SSD for up to an additional 640GB of internal drive capacity, internal RAID, or other user customized internal data storage configurations.

The $79.99 MSRP OWC Data Doubler comes complete with all required hardware, a detailed step-by-step Mac notebook model specific installation guide, available online OWC installation videos, and is immediately available for the following notebook computers:

MacBook 13" “Late 2008” ‘Unibody’ and later models
MacBook 13" “Late 2009” ‘White Unibody’ and later models
MacBook Pro 13" "Mid 2009" ‘Unibody’ and later models
MacBook Pro 15" "Late 2008” ‘Unibody’ and later models
MacBook Pro 17" "Early 2009” ‘Unibody’ and later models
For more information on the OWC Data Doubler kit, compatibility guide, or to order, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/DDAMBS0GB/

Provides Custom Configuration of Notebooks
The custom engineered, black anodized aluminum OWC Data Doubler gives MacBook and MacBook Pro users the flexibility to uniquely configure their notebook computer’s internal drive array. Any SATA 2.5" hard drive or SSD of up to 9.5mm (Super Slim) height can be mounted onto the bracket with the entire assembly then installing into the notebook’s 5.25" optical drive bay. 9.5mm SATA 2.5" drives, currently available in capacities of up to 640GB, are fully ‘Plug and Play’ recognized via the Apple Disk Utility program with standard configuration options just like any typical drive including, but not limited to:
Creating an individual volume with its own desktop icon.
Combining a new drive with the existing internal drive for one larger volume (SPAN).
Combining a new matching drive with existing internal for high-performance RAID-0 Stripe volume.
Configuring a new drive as a Time Machine™ backup drive.
Formatting one drive for the Mac OS and the other dedicated for Windows.
“Since 1988, OWC has focused on products and services that enhance the Macintosh user experience,” said Larry O’Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing. “The OWC Data Doubler kit is a cost effective and well documented solution for MacBook and MacBook Pro owners to attain more capacity, performance, and/or redundancy - all right within their existing laptop with nothing additional to carry.”

High Performance Hard Drives & SSDs Available
In addition to the Data Doubler optical bay drive solution, OWC carries a full line of 2.5" notebook drives up to 1TB with 500GB hard drives from $74.99 and Solid State Drives (SSD) from $129.99. For the fastest and most reliable drive available on the market, OWC also offers its own award-winning Mercury Extreme Pro SSD line in capacities from 50GB to 480GB starting at $199.99. For more information on OWC’s internal storage options for notebook computers, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/hard-drives/2.5-Notebook/es/2.5-Notebook/

Lexar unveils new 24-in-1 USB card reader

Lexar Media has announced a new 24-in-1 USB multi-card reader. With a RRP of £29.99, the reader is compatible with multiple SD, CF, mobile, Memory Stick and xD card form factors.

In the following video clip, Lexar’s director of marketing Jeff Cable demonstrates how to use the Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader with the new Apple iPad and 600x speed CF cards.

Press release

Lexar Media Introduces Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader For Easy and Reliable File Transfer

All-in-One Solution Enables Concurrent Downloads and Card-to-Card Transfer of Multimedia Files

Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader Key Messages:
Allows for quick and easy download of photo, video, music, and other files
Includes five slots and supports 24 memory card formats
Enables concurrent downloads to a host computer and card-to-card file transfer
Pop-up design protects card slots when not in use

Fremont, CA, June 24, 2010 – Lexar Media, a leading global provider of memory products for digital media, today introduced the Lexar® Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader. Featuring five slots and supporting 24 popular memory card formats, the newest reader is an all-in-one solution enabling concurrent downloads and card-to-card file transfer. The highly versatile card reader was developed with a unique pop-up design, which allows the card slots to be protected when not in use, and comes equipped with a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 cable. The reader makes it easy to quickly download photo, video, music, and other files from nearly any memory card to a host computer. For additional information about the Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader, visit www.lexar.com.

“From cameras and camcorders to mobile phones and GPS units, so many of today’s devices rely on memory cards, and not all of them use the same format. Managing these various cards can be cumbersome and confusing for consumers, causing them to mistakenly think they need to purchase multiple card readers,” said Jim Chan, product marketing manager, Lexar Media. “The Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader simplifies this process, eliminating the need for different readers and providing the ability to transfer important files and memories from nearly any memory card format.”

The Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader supports the following memory cards formats:
CompactFlash slot: CompactFlash® Type I and Type II
Secure Digital slot: SD™, SDHC™, miniSD™, miniSDHC™, MMC™, MMCplus™, and RS-MMC™
Mobile slot: microSD™, microSDHC™, and M2™
Memory Stick slot: Memory Stick™, Memory Stick (with MagicGate™), Memory Stick PRO™, Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Memory Stick Duo (with MagicGate), Memory Stick PRO Duo Mark 2, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™, and Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo “HX”
xD-Picture Card slot: xD-Picture Card™, xD-Picture Card Type-M, xD-Picture Card Type-M+, and xD-Picture Card Type-H

In addition to ease-of-use and reliable performance, the Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader provides consumers with the reliability they have come to expect from Lexar Media. All Lexar memory card and card reader designs are tested in the Lexar Quality Labs, facilities with more than 800 digital cameras and memory card devices, to ensure performance, quality, compatibility, and reliability. Lexar performs this extensive testing in an effort to provide customers with the highest level of confidence.

The Lexar Multi-Card 24-in-1 USB Reader includes a one-year limited warranty..

Chase Jarvis shares workflow secrets

US-based commercial photographer and videographer, Chase Jarvis, has released an eye-opening video of his workflow from capture, through to post (in Aperture), storage and on to delivery to the client.

Transcend outs class 10 64GB SDXC card

Transcend, makers of memory cards and storage devices, have unwrapped their new class 10 64GB SDXC cards capable, it's claimed, of transfer rates up to 25MB/s. There is no word on price or availability at this time.

Transcend Unveils 64GB Class 10 SDXC Card

June 22, 2010

Transcend Information, Inc. (Transcend), a worldwide leader in memory and storage products, today announced the company's first 64GB Class 10 SDXC memory cards. Featuring an unprecedented amount of storage capacity and ultra fast transfer rates up to 25 MB/s, Transcend's new Ultimate SDXC cards are perfect for consumers in need of extended HD video recording time and improved camera performance for high-resolution digital photography.

SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) is the next-generation standard for SD cards established by the Secure Digital Association (SDA). With supported capacities ranging from 32GB up to 2TB, SDXC offers vastly greater storage potential compared to the SDHC standard, which only supports capacities up to 32GB. A 64GB SDXC card is capable of storing a maximum of 26208 pictures (based on 5 megapixel JPEG compression format), 352 hours of standard quality video (MPEG-4 video at 384 Kbps), or 640 minutes of 1920x1080 videos. Thanks to its use of the exFAT file system that supports files larger than 4GB, Transcend's SDXC cards feature astonishingly high storage capacity, making them the ideal complement to today's high-end SDXC-compatible DSLR cameras and HD camcorders.

Fully Class 10 compliant, Transcend Ultimate SDXC cards boast read speeds up to 25 MB/s. This exceptional data transfer performance not only prevents lag when recording 1920x1080 Full HD videos, but also enables high-speed consecutive shooting at sporting or other fast-motion events. As more and more consumer electronic products such as HDTVs, Blu-ray players, mobile phones and GPS are expected to support SDXC in the near future, widespread adoption of SDXC is just around the corner.

For further peace of mind, the new SDXC cards are comprehensively tested for compatibility and reliability, and carry Transcend's renowned Lifetime Warranty. In addition to the 64GB Class 10 SDXC Cards, Transcend also offers a complete line of Ultimate series Class 10 SDHC Cards, which deliver transfer speeds of up to 20MB/s and are available in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB and 32GB capacities

Nikon sponsors The Open Championship

Nikon continues its association with the The Open Championship, the camera company announced today. Nikon first sponsored the event 17 years ago in 1993.

NIKON SPONSORS THE 150TH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Nikon today announces its continued sponsorship of The Open Championship, the world’s oldest golf tournament, which is celebrating its 150th year. Nikon will be sponsoring The Championship, which is taking place between 15-18 July, at St Andrews, Scotland, for the 17th consecutive year, and has lined up some exciting activities and promotions to reflect this special anniversary for the tournament.

Nikon will be hosting an experiential area at St Andrews where members of the public will be able to view their golf swing as they hit balls into a net, using the COOLPIX P100, Nikon’s high performance COOLPIX camera that features full HD Movie Mode. Visitors will then have the chance to spend time with a professional golfer, who will analyse their swing, help to iron out any flaws and make improvements to their swing. The COOLPIX P100 will then be used to capture this improved swing which will be available for visitors to take away with them on a memory stick for future reference.

Nikon will also be setting up a retail unit displaying all of the latest Nikon DSLR and COOLPIX cameras, with expert advisors on hand to help people looking for a camera to capture the stunning scenery and important moments of what promises to be a memorable Championship. There will also be a gallery showing some of the iconic images captured by leading Nikon professional sports photographer, David Ashdown, which have characterised Open Championships through the years.

As with previous years, Nikon will be providing a dedicated photography service depot on site for the army of professional photographers that will be present at St Andrews from all over the world, where they can loan equipment or check their equipment in for cleaning or repair services.

The Open Golf Championship is one of Nikon’s most significant worldwide sponsorships, having been a patron of the event since 1993. The company is committed to continuing its patronage until 2012 and beyond, ensuring a prominent brand presence at what remains one of the biggest events in the sporting calendar.

Commenting on Nikon’s ongoing sponsorship of The Open Championship, Birgitta Olson, General Manager of Marketing Communications at Nikon Europe, said: “Golf has provided sport with some of its most inspiring images and therefore we see our sponsorship of the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament in the world as a very natural fit. We understand the unique challenges involved in shooting high quality golfing images in what are often testing conditions, and therefore we are continuing to provide photographers with the very best equipment and technical support they need.”

Lexar demos 600x speed card in use

Lexar’s Jeff Cable ably demonstrates how quickly the new pro-level x600 cards clear the buffer when shooting with a UDMA enabled Canon EOS 7D.

 

Sales

Buy Lexar 600x CF cards from the following retailers:

Warehouse Express (UK)

Adorama (US)

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Lexar launches 256GB CompactFlash card

BlackRapid RS-5 camera strap review

By Kevin Carter

I was sent the BlackRapid RS-5 camera sling for review, and my first thoughts on opening the package were how is this going to work? - it's an unusual design for a camera strap, to say the least. Fo the uninitiated, the camera is held, not by the usual two eyelets on the body, but by the tripod socket underneath. Now I wasn't immediately thinking of the benefits to this, indeed I was a little taken aback to be honest.

There's no doubt it feels strange to secure the camera by just one point, instead of two, but the RS-5 sling has a fastener and D-ring made from solid steel and a high-quality rubber compression washer (pictured above) - assuring a rock-sold attachment point to your camera. While the D-ring allows you to apply a precise amount of torque and the compression of the rubber holds the fastener without fear of it coming undone, the camera hangs up-side down. That's the concerning point. But as I mentioned earlier there are several important benefits to this.

 

If you've ever walked around with a heavy pro-camera fitted with a 70-200mm f/2.8 you'll know that a) it's uncomfortable, b) prone to getting in the way and often getting knocked, and c) not advised by the camera makers for excessive strain on the mount. As you would attach the fastener to the tripod socket of the lens (and not the camera), that avoids that problem, and, somewhat surprisingly I admit, after the strap is correctly adjusted so the camera and lens sits in the small of your back, it's very comfortable. And it works just as well when fastened to the camera body when using smaller lenses, without a tripod collar. It falls naturally close to the body and doesn't swing about either. If you prefer you can position it to the side of your body, over your kidney, with the body pointed forward. That position allows you to grab the camera quickly and pull it to your eye, and it really is quicker than a conventional strap.

On the underside, the RS-5 has a breathable mesh and, while not thickly padded, it's comfortable enough for said pro-camera and 70-200mm. It's very well-made and there are several nice extras over the standard slings, the RS-4 and RS-7, including a magneticly secured padded pouch for a cell phone (it fits the iPhone even with a case attached to the rear), and there's a zipped mesh pocket for change, keys or some memory cards. Interestingly, the pocket is held by another magnet, rather than noisy velcro. And, finally, there is a flat, zipped pocket for notes or tickets. If you like to feel free and unencumbered while shooting - I don't like keys, phones or change in my trousers (or shorts) when I'm photographing - then the RS-5 takes care of that.

In order to get the most from the $65/£60 RS-5, and the other slings in the range, you must use it as the maker suggests. Odd, I know, but that's just how it is. The sling must be placed over your head, and not just over a shoulder. And there's a buckle that seems to serve no purpose, but is intended to keep the pad, or camera, from slipping backwards. Even so, when the pad is correctly positioned, if you pull the camera up vertically, the sling swivels and the pad will fall behind you (especially when loaded with a phone and change) and that is bothersome. If, however, you pull the camera up in an arc, the pressure keeps the pad in place on your shoulder and then it works as it was intended.

Did I find anything I didn't like? Well, no, after I followed the maker's suggestions, it worked like a dream. Would I recommend it? Absolutely, and especially so, if you walk around with a 70-200mm f/2.8, or similar, permanently attached, then I can think of no better solution. But even if you're not a sports shooter or don't shoot birds in-flight, then anyone looking for a well-made and comfortable camera strap should take a closer look at the BlackRapid range.

Update 26/6/10:

Take a look at this video of Tyler from BlackRapid, giving the RS-5 a once-over.

BLACKRAPID RS-5 Basic Setup & Features from BLACKRAPID on Vimeo.

Shop for the RS-5 at the following retailers

Amazon (all countries)
Adorama US (free shipping in the US)
Warehouseexpress.com (£54.95)
Jessops (£69.95)