Sony rolls out four new DSLRs

With the introduction of four new models today (see separate post for the SLT A33 and SLT A55), Sony's year-old A550 and A500 models have been replaced by the A580 and A560 (see below for the press release).

Press Release

 

London, 24TH August 2010

 

Sony introduces high performance DSLR cameras with Full HD video

Fully-featured α580 with newly developed 16.2M Exmor APS HD CMOS censor, up to 7fps shooting, and Auto HDR

•    DSLR-A580 (16.2 megapixels) and DSLR-A560 (14.2 megapixels)
•    Fast, responsive shooting up to 7fps
•    New 15-point phase-detection autofocus system for rapid, accurate AF tracking
•    Full HD Movie shooting
•    Advanced imaging functions including 3D Sweep Panorama, Auto HDR and Multi Frame Noise Reduction

Appealing to photographers ready to explore sophisticated new creative possibilities, the DSLR-A580 and DSLR-A560 from Sony offer unparalleled levels of imaging refinement.

At the heart of both cameras is a new-generation Exmor™ APS HD CMOS Sensor processor. Together with the latest iteration of Sony’s powerful BIONZ imaging processor, it supports high-speed continuous shooting plus a sophisticated range of digital image compositing and processing functions. This gives even greater artistic possibilities to beginners and photo enthusiasts alike.

The A580 and A560 can freeze fleeting photo opportunities at up to 7fps in Speed Priority Continuous Advance mode *. What’s more, Sony’s popular Quick AF Live View system is now more effective than ever. The benefits of live image preview are maximised by a newly developed 15-point phase-detection autofocus system that keeps even moving subjects in pin-sharp focus.

The A580 and A560 are compatible with the full α range of over 30 A-mount interchangeable lenses of Sony and Carl Zeiss already available and offer SteadyShot INSIDE. This in-body sensor shift image stabilisation system provides up to 4 exposure steps of anti-shake correction when shooting handheld.

Full HD movie shooting
Both the A580 and A560 offer Full HD video shooting. Just touch the dedicated Movie button and record detail-packed HD videos and crisp stereo sound in a choice of AVCHD 1080i or web-friendly MP4 formats. Thanks to the large, high-resolution Exmor™ APS HD CMOS Sensor, it’s possible to capture stunning HD movie clips with beautiful background defocus (‘bokeh’) effects.

Effortless composition and image viewing
The A580 and A560 enable exciting new possibilities for framing and viewing the highest-quality still images and video.

* Autofocus and Auto Exposure locked at first frame for entire burst
Articulating up or down for comfortable framing in any shooting position, the bright 7.5 cm (3.0") Xtra Fine LCD offers a bright, high contrast view with superb detail and colours.

As an additional refinement, new Focus Check Live View mode simplifies critical assessment of the finest image details. A real-time ‘feed’ from the main sensor can be viewed on the LCD monitor, with switchable magnification allowing close-up confirmation of delicate manual focus adjustments. Contrast AF method is selectable in focus check Live View mode.

DSLR enthusiasts will also welcome the bright, high contrast optical viewfinder with 95% frame coverage that provides a supremely detailed view while composing still images. Depth of field preview is now available at the touch of a button.

Both cameras feature 3D Sweep Panorama, allowing photographers to capture detail-packed extra-wide panoramas with a huge field of view. 3D panoramas can be enjoyed on any compatible 3D HD television.

Auto HDR is now refined further compared with previous-generation α models. Data from a burst of three frames at bracketed exposure values is automatically combined, creating a single image with extended highlight and shadow detail. Multi-frame Noise Reduction ‘stacks’ a high-speed burst of six frames, creating a single low-noise exposure that boosts effective sensitivity as high as ISO 25600.

The new cameras accept both Memory Stick PRO Duo™ (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX 30MB per second transfer rate offers the best performance during cameras' continuous shooting mode or when transferring the data to another media.

The new DSLR-A580 and DSLR-A560 digital SLR cameras from Sony will be available from October 2010.

 

Sony's current range of DSLRs (and NEX 3 and 5 models) includes, from left to right: A900, A850, A580, A560, A55, A33, A390 and finally the A290.

PictoColor rolls out iCorrect Portrait 2.0

PictoColor Releases Windows Version of iCorrect Portrait 2.0 Color Correction Plug-in for Photoshop CS5 Including Full 64-Bit Compatibility

New plug-in featuring award-winning skin tone color correction now includes PictoColor’s noise reduction and sharpening technology for optimum image quality

Burnsville, MN (PRWEB) August 20, 2010
PictoColor Software, a leading developer of innovative, timesaving solutions for professional and advanced amateur photographers, has released iCorrect Portrait 2.0 Plug-in for Adobe Photoshop CS5. The newest version of the highly acclaimed point-and-click color correction software now offers full compatibility with the Adobe Photoshop CS5 in both 32 and 64-bit Windows environments. iCorrect Portrait 2.0 seamlessly integrates noise removal and sharpening technology with PictoColor’s Skin Tone Technology for optimum color workflow. Applying noise removal, color correction, and sharpening in the proper order is critical to achieving optimum image quality. iCorrect Portrait 2.0 automatically applies these corrections in a single step thus avoiding mistakes and saving time.
Based on PictoColor’s point-and-click color correction technology, iCorrect Portrait 2.0 offers professional portrait, wedding, school, sport, and event photographers a fast and easy way to color correct their digital photos.
iCorrect Portrait features PictoColor’s award-winning skin tone correction technology that adds vibrancy to every image with just a click of the mouse. It’s simple single-panel interface provides all the tools for setting tonal range, improving color balance, adjusting brightness and contrast, and correcting skin tones and other user-defined colors like backgrounds, or team colors, etc.
Additional controls allow users to modify settings and optimize their workflow for maximum productivity. All color correction settings can be saved and applied to multiple images with similar characteristics. For extra large jobs, iCorrect Portrait can be recorded into a Photoshop action for batch processing.
iCorrect Portrait 2.0 includes both 32 and 64 bit versions of the plug-in and may be installed on two computers.
Compatibility
Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7
Photoshop CS2, CS3, CS4, and CS5 (32 bit and 64 bit)
*Photoshop Elements 4.0 – 8.0 for Windows
iCorrect Portrait 2.0 may be purchased at PictoColor’s secure on-line store at www.pictocolor.com for $124.95 as a software download. A free downloadable demo version is available at www.pictocolor.com.

No APS-C format sensor for Canon G12?

Is this the new Canon G12? Well, Photo Rumors believes so. And, if true there's no APS-C size sensor for the G12, which we all kind of thought (or hoped, perhaps) may happen. Seems like if Canon are going to enter the market with a so-called mirrorless camera, it's still a way off.

Ricoh out CX4

Ricoh has announced the 10-megapixel CX4, with back-illuminated CMOS sensor and 10.7x optical zoom. There's no word on price, as yet.

Press release:

August 19, 2010—TOKYO, Japan—Ricoh Co., Ltd. (helmed by president and CEO Shiro Kondo) today announced the release of the new CX4 compact digital camera. This new design offers high-power (10.7×), wide-angle 28–300 mm optical zoom and improved image-sensor-shift image stabilization in a workmanlike yet stylish package.

The new CX4’s evolved image-sensor-shift image stabilization reduces blur on average by the equivalent of about 3.7 EV—3.7 shutter-speed stops—for improved performance under dim indoor lighting and at high zoom ratios.

The camera also offers a new “subject-tracking AF” autofocus system that automatically tracks your subject, ensuring that photographs are in focus and correctly exposed whenever you choose to release the shutter. You’ll find this feature indispensable for moving subjects and close-ups.

In addition, Ricoh has further developed features designed to enhance the photographic experience, including a “night landscape multi-shot mode” that combines four exposures into a single photograph for reduced image noise, and a “creative shooting mode” that brings out the artist in everyone with soft focus, cross process, and toy camera effects. With portability enhanced by a newly-designed body featuring molded curves that make it easier to slip the camera into your pocket, the CX4 compact digital camera represents another advance in Ricoh’s philosophy of designing “A tool you will want to use every day.”

<Principal Features of the New CX4 Compact Digital Camera>

1. High sensitivity, low noise photography using improved blur reduction and high-performance noise reduction for clear, high-quality results at high zoom ratios and under low light
•    The CX4 offers completely reworked image-sensor-shift image stabilization, which reduces blur caused by camera movement—a phenomenon that is particularly likely to occur in close ups, at high zoom ratios, and in other similar situations. The effect is equivalent to increasing shutter speed by an average of about 3.7 stops.
•    The camera’s noise reduction algorithm processes the image signal as it is output from the CMOS image sensor, reducing noise without affecting resolution, tone, or color. Setting noise reduction to “MAX” enables variance-estimation noise reduction that analyzes the distribution of noise in the data captured by the image sensor and optimizes processing for individual areas of the image.
•    The back-illuminated, 10-megapixel CMOS image sensor offers improved low-light performance.

2. A portable, easy-to-use design featuring 10.7× optical zoom (28–300 mm)
•    Ricoh’s unique retracting lens system allows a wide-angle, high-power (10.7×) zoom lens to be incorporated into a compact camera body only 29.4 mm thick.
•    With picture angles that range from 28 mm (wide angle) to 300 mm (telephoto), this high-power zoom lens is adapted to almost any situation. Choose wide angles for landscapes or cramped interiors that limit the distance between camera and subject, or zoom in for compelling telephoto shots.

3. An autofocus system that automatically tracks the subject (subject-tracking AF)
•    Subject-tracking AF automatically tracks the subject selected when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, ensuring that photographs are in focus and correctly exposed whenever you choose to release the shutter. This feature is ideal for shots of active children and pets, as well as for photographs of flowers and other subjects that demand careful composition.

4. A “creative shooting mode” that offers a choice of six artistic effects
•    Choose “soft focus mode” for an effect similar to that produced by soft-focus lenses. The strength of the effect can be selected from “weak” and “strong.”
•    Select “cross-process mode” for colors that differ markedly from those in normal photographs. Choose a color scheme from “basic,” “magenta,” and “yellow.”
•    “Toy camera mode” replicates the sharp contrast and saturated colours associated with toy cameras, together with their characteristic distortion and vignetting.
•    The CX4 also offers the “dynamic range double shot,” “miniaturize,” and “high-contrast B&W” modes made popular by the CX3.

5. High-quality results over a wide tone range
•    An output pixel interpolation algorithm with dedicated Smooth Imaging Engine IV logic circuits reduces loss of detail in highlights to faithfully recreate beautiful high-contrast scenes exactly as they appear to the naked eye.
•    Multi-pattern auto white balance produces colors close to those seen by the human eye in portraits shot in a mixture of sunlight and shade or with both the flash and natural light. High-contrast scenes like these often prove challenging for other, less advanced white-balance algorithms.

6. Eleven scene modes that make it easy to adjust settings to suit your subject
•    The CX4 features a new “night landscape multi-shot” mode that creates clear, beautiful photos of night scenes by automatically and precisely combining a series of exposures shot at high sensitivities to reduce the blur and noise normally associated with pictures taken under low light, allowing photographers to taste the joys of hand-held, tripod-free night photography.
•    The eleven scene modes that were so well-received by users of the CX3—including “pets mode” for portraits of your favorite pet cat—are also included in the CX4.

7. A 920,000-dot, 3.0-inch high-definition VGA monitor
•    The large, high-resolution LCD monitor boasts high contrast and a wide viewing angle. A fluorine coating keeps the monitor free of stains, while a hard coating and anti-reflection coating prevent scratches and ensure that the display in the monitor is clearly visible even outdoors in bright sunlight.
•    Wide-gamut color reproduction (100% of sRGB) ensures that colors are displayed vividly and with high fidelity.

8. Many other features that reflect Ricoh’s design philosophy: “A tool you will want to use every day”
•    The CX4 offers high burst rates of about 5 frames per second (fps) during continuous shooting.
•    Macro mode can be used to take photos at distances as close as 1 cm when the camera is zoomed out to a focal length equivalent to 31 mm in 35 mm format, or at distances as close as 28 cm when the camera is zoomed all the way in.
•    “Scene auto mode” offers the ultimate in “point-and-shoot” photography: just point the CX4 at your subject and let the camera optimize settings for best results.
•    The camera can record HD movies with a frame size of 1,280 × 720 pixels.

*    All focal lengths in this news release have been converted to 35 mm format.
*    All instances of “MP files” refer to “Extended MP files” in a format that conforms to the CIPA “multi-picture format” standard (extension “.MPO”). The CX4 can extract selected frames from MP files and save them in JPEG format.

<CX4 Principal Specifications>

No. of Effective Pixels (Camera):
Approximately 10.00 million pixels

Image Sensor:
1/2.3-inch CMOS (total pixels: approx. 10.60 million pixels)

Lens:
Focal length: f=4.9–52.5 mm
(Equivalent to 28–300 mm for 35 mm film cameras. With Step Zoom set, focal lengths can be fixed at eight steps: 28 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm, 85 mm, 105 mm, 135 mm, 200 mm, and 300 mm)
F-aperture: F3.5 (Wide)–F5.6 (Telephoto)
Shooting Distance: Normal shooting: Approx. 30 cm–infinity (Wide), approx. 1.5 m–infinity (Telephoto) (from the front of the lens)
Macro: Approx. 1 cm–infinity (Wide), approx. 28 cm–infinity (Telephoto), approx. 1 cm–infinity (Zoom Macro) (from the front of the lens)
Lens Construction: 10 elements in 7 groups (aspheric lens: 4 elements and 5 surfaces)

Zoom Magnification:
Optical: 10.7x zoom (equivalent to 28-300 mm focal length for 35 mm cameras)
Digital: 4.8x up to 51.4x (equivalent to 1440 mm) when used with optical zoom
Auto Resize: 5.7x*1 up to 61.0x*1 (equivalent to 1710 mm) when used with optical zoom

Focus Modes:
Multi AF / Spot AF / Face-priority Multi AF (Contrast AF method with AF Auxiliary Light), Subject-tracking AF / Multi-target AF (Contrast AF method), MF / Snap / ∞(fixed focus)

Motion Blur Reduction:
Image sensor shift method image stabilizer

Shutter Speed: *2
Still image: 8, 4, 2, 1–1/2000 sec. / Movie: 1/30–1/2000 sec.

Continuous Shooting:
Continuous shooting speed: *3 approx. 5 frames/sec. (10M 4:3F shooting time; shooting speed after 12 pictures is approx. 3 frames/sec.)
Continuous shooting capacity: 999 pictures

Exposure Control:
Exposure Metering Mode: Multi Light Metering (256 segments) / Center-weighted Light Metering / Spot Metering
Exposure Mode: Program AE
Exposure Compensation: Manual Exposure Compensation +/−2.0EV (1/3EV Steps), Auto Bracket Function (−0.5EV, ±0, +0.5EV)

ISO Sensitivity (Standard Output Sensitivity):
AUTO, ISO100 / ISO200 / ISO400 / ISO800 / ISO1600 / ISO3200

White Balance Mode:
Auto / Multi-pattern Auto / Outdoors / Cloudy / Incandescent 1 / Incandescent 2 / Fluorescent / Manual, White balance bracket function

Flash:
Flash Mode: Auto flash (fires automatically in low-light conditions and when the subject is backlit) / Anti Red-eye / Flash On / Flash Synchro. / Flash Off
Built-in flash range: Approx. 20 cm–4.0 m (Wide), approx. 28 cm–3.0 m (Telephoto) (auto ISO with a maximum of ISO 1600, measured from the front of the lens)
Flash compensation: +/−2.0EV (1/3EV Steps)

Monitor:
3.0-inch Transparent LCD (approx. 920,000 dots)

Shooting Mode:
Auto shooting mode / Movie mode / Scene auto mode / Scene mode (Portrait / Discreet Mode / Night. Port. / Night Landscape Multi-shot / Sports / Landscape / Zoom Macro / Pets / Skew Correct Mode / High Sens / Text Mode) / My settings mode / Continuous mode / Creative Shooting Mode (Dynamic Range / Miniaturize / High Contrast B&W / Soft Focus / Cross Process / Toy Camera)

Picture Quality Mode: *4
F(Fine) / N(Normal)
No. of Pixels Recorded:
Still image/multi-picture: 3648×2736, 3648×2432, 2736×2736, 3648×2048, 2592×1944, 2048×1536, 1728×1296 (multi-picture only), 1280×960, 640×480
Movie: 1280 x 720, 640 x 480, 320 x 240
Text: 3648 x 2736, 2048 x 1536

Recording Media:
SD memory card, SDHC memory card (up to 32 GB), Internal memory (approx. 86 MB)

Storage Capacity (Pictures/Time): *5 (internal memory approx. 86 MB):
Still image/multi-picture: 3648×2736 (F: 22, N: 37), 3648×2432 (F: 24), 2736×2736 (F: 29),
3648×2048 (F: 29), 2592×1944 (F: 34), 2048×1536 (F: 53), 1728×1296 (N: 127) (M-Cont Plus), 1280×960 (F: 96), 640×480 (F: 394), 640×480 (N: 691)(Speed Cont)
Movie:*6 1280×720 (16 sec.), 640×480 (49 sec.), 320×240 (1 min. 59sec.)

Recording File Format:
Still Image: JPEG (Exif ver. 2.21) *7
Multi-picture: CIPA DC-007-2009 Multi-Picture Format
Movie: AVI (Open DML Motion JPEG Format compliant)
Compression method: JPEG Baseline method compliant

Other Major Shooting Functions:
Continuous, Self-Timer (operation time: approx. 10 sec. / approx. 2 sec. / custom self-timer), Interval Timer (Shooting interval: 5 sec.–1 hour, 5 sec. steps), Color Bracket function, Focus Bracket function, AE/AF Target Shift, Histogram, Grid Guide, Electronic Level

Other Major Playback Functions:
Grid View, Enlarged Display (maximum 16×), Resize, Level Compensation, White Balance Compensation, Trim, Flag, Slideshow, DPOF Setting

Interface:
USB 2.0 (High-Speed USB) Mini-B, Mass storage compatible*8 / AV Out 1.0Vp-p (75Ω)

Video Signal Format:
NTSC, PAL switchable

Power Supply:
Rechargeable Battery: DB-100×1

Battery Consumption: *9
Based on CIPA Standard: Using the DB-100, approx. 330 pictures (when LCD Dim is on) *10

External Dimensions (W × H × D):
101.5 mm × 58.6 mm × 29.4 (24.4 mm at thinnest part) (according to CIPA guidelines)

Weight:
Approx. 205 g (including the supplied battery and SD memory card)
Approx. 184 g (body only)

Operating Temperature Range:
0ºC–40ºC

*1. VGA image size
*2. Shutter speed upper and lower limits vary depending on Shooting Mode and Flash Mode.
*3. Values measured under Ricoh measurement conditions using a Panasonic PRO HIGH SPEED 8GB SDHC memory card. The continuous shooting speed and number of pictures will vary depending on the shooting conditions, the type of recording media used, the condition of the recording media, etc.
*4. The picture quality modes which can be set vary depending on the image size.
*5. All figures are approximate.
*6. Individual movies can be up to 4 GB in size. Approximate maximum length is 12 minutes for movies with a frame size of 1280×720 and 29 minutes for movies with a frame size of 640×480 or 320×240.
*7. Compatible with DCF and DPOF. DCF is the abbreviation of the JEITA standard “Design rule for Camera File system.” (Full compatibility with other devices is not guaranteed.)
*8. Mass storage driver is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Mac OSX 10.1.2–10.6.3
*9. Shooting capacity was measured using CIPA-standard parameters. This is only an estimate, and performance may vary according to usage conditions.
*10. When LCD Auto Dim is off: approx. 310 pictures

 

Windows is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S.A. and other countries. Mac OS is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries.

 

 

Nikon unveils new D3100 entry-level DSLR

Replacing the D3000, the new D3100 boasts the same 14.2-megapixel CMOS sensor seen in recent rival offerings from Sony (Nikon's sensor supplier). Supplied with 18-55mm VR starter lens the D3100 will be available from the end of September at a retail price of $700 / £579 / 687 Euros.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 19 August 2010 – Nikon introduces the D3100, the most easy-to-use D-SLR, with full High Definition (HD) video, to date. Jordi Brinkman, Product Manager for Nikon Europe, says: “The D3100 is the successor to Europe’s best selling D-SLR , the D3000, offering 14.2 megapixels, full HD movie, Live View with new AF modes and improved ergonomics. It also has the popular Guide Mode as seen on the D3000, which now shows you sample images of what you can achieve with certain settings, for example if you change the shutter speed or aperture. This is the ideal camera for families who want to capture all the important moments in perfect quality, without worrying about settings.”

Pure and simple D-SLR for the family

The D3100 is designed for newcomers to D-SLR photography, especially young families who want to take beautiful pictures without worrying about complicated functionality. A range of automatic settings means the camera is doing all the hard work much like on a compact camera: Live View with Scene Auto Selector selects the mode that matches your shooting situation; Scene Recognition delivers sharply defined images by analyzing the scene and optimizing the camera settings immediately before the shutter is released; and Guide Mode will take you step-by-step through the process of how to get the picture you want.
The 11-point autofocus system will make sure everything is in focus and ensures tack-sharp images to capture even the most fleeting of expressions or movements. Additionally, the bright viewfinder means you can see and focus precisely on the image you want to capture, quickly and easily. Live View with Scene Auto Selector is an intuitive and familiar way of taking pictures, useful for those who have only used a compact camera, and makes it easy to compose images using the LCD monitor. Scene Auto Selector will select the best mode for the scene and subject you want to capture, and Fulltime servo AF (AF-F) mode keeps subjects in focus without the need to press the shutter release button. Live View will also recognise as many as 35 faces at a time and even if people in the frame move, the camera will continue tracking and focusing on them.

Stunning pictures in every situation

The 14.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor, new powerful EXPEED 2 processing engine and a wide range of NIKKOR lenses deliver excellent pictures with amazing detail wherever you are and whatever you are doing. It has ISO 100-3200 sensitivity, with the versatility of effectively boosting ISO up to 12800. This significantly reduces the risk of blurred images when taking pictures of the most energetic children or an evening barbeque with all the family.

Full HD movies for all the family

Using the easy-access movie record button you can instantly switch to video mode on the D3100, and the D-Movie function allows you to record stunning HD movie clips with sound. The camera’s large image sensor and high ISO sensitivity offers exceptional image quality, and the wide variety of NIKKOR lenses can be used to create cinematic effects. You can also make simple edits of your clips in-camera by deleting scenes or save specific frames as still images – nothing will be missed for the family photo album. The D3100 is also HDMI compatible so you can connect your camera to an HD television to view your movies in full HD from your sofa.

The Guide to great photos

For the newcomer to D-SLRs, the intelligent, improved Guide Mode, as seen on the D3000, gives you step-by-step instructions of how to change the camera settings. This means you not only get the picture you want but it helps you to understand how it was achieved so you can develop your photography skills. You can even view sample images of what you can expect from each setting, for example if you change the aperture or shutter speed settings.

Don’t miss a moment

The D3100 is the essential item for every family event or day out. The camera’s comprehensive technologies and tough exterior will keep up with any outing, whatever you’re doing. Its compact size and lightweight body make the D3100 easy to pack and carry around for all those unmissable moments.i

Nikon unwraps AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR

Nikon has announced an updated version of the FX format 24-120mm boasting a new optical and exterior design along with a fixed f/4 aperture. It's the equivalent of a 36-180mm on a DX format body, and will be on sale from 22nd September at a retail price of $1299 / £1049 / 1243 Euros.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 19 August 2010 – Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, a brand new 5x zoom lens for FX format D-SLR photographers. The 24-120mm focal length continues to be a unique proposition in the NIKKOR lens range and the new version features a fixed f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. It incorporates Nano Crystal coat and Nikon’s second generation VRII system.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens offers excellent value and performance in a compact package for adventurous photographers everywhere. It is the second f/4 aperture VR zoom lens introduced this year that broadens the options for Nikon photographers.”


The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR covers a NIKKOR exclusive zoom range of 24mm to 120mm, ideal for events and travel photography. The fixed f/4 aperture enables the photographer to manage the depth of field effectively throughout the zoom range. Whatever the subject, from expansive landscapes to isolating portraits, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR does it with ease.

Hold Still

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR is equipped with Nikon’s second generation Vibration Reduction system (VR II) that offers compensation equivalent to a shutter speed of approximately four stops faster and couples well with the f/4 fixed aperture under low light conditions. The system incorporates two modes: Normal for general handheld shooting and Active to compensate for the mechanical vibration frequencies caused by planes and moving vehicles.

Brilliant quality across the zoom range

The complex optical design uses Nano Crystal coat, two ED glass elements and no less than three aspherical lens elements to maintain bright, high contrast images under a wide variety of light conditions. Ghosting, flare and aberrations are minimised whilst the nine bladed diaphragm generates subtle bokeh effect in out of focus areas.

Smooth performer

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) was specifically developed for the unique characteristics of this lens. It offers very discreet autofocus performance with instant Manual override possible in M/A mode. The zoom gearing and switch placement has been carefully designed for intuitive (blind) operation when looking through the viewfinder. The lens balances well with D-SLRs like the D700 and the barrel features a subtle indentation to assist grip when in use.

Built to move

The large zoom range is achieved in a very compact and tough construction, ideal for the adventure and travel photographer. Through extensive use of magnesium and Super Engineering Plastic components the lens is built to handle the knocks of everyday use, and rubber sealing around switches and lens mount mean moist or dusty conditions are not a problem.
The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR takes the ‘standard zoom’ concept to another level to meet the demands of today’s high resolution FX format D-SLRs while maintaining excellent price/performance ratio.
The lens is supplied with a dedicated hood HB-53 and a soft pouch.nd

Nikon adds AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR to range

This new budget lens for the DX user will be available from the 2nd September at a retail price of $399 / £369 / 438 Euros.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 19 August 2010 – Nikon Europe today announces a new super telephoto zoom lens – the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. With a focal length ranging from 55mm to 300mm (equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm on DX format D-SLRs) it enables the user to really get up close and personal with distant subjects.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe BV, says: “The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a really useful and economical second lens alongside today’s standard 18-55mm kit lenses, enabling coverage of all subjects both near and far. The compact dimensions and lightweight construction make it an ideal choice for the compact D-SLR customer.”

Go further for less

The 5.5 times zoom ratio offers flexibility by drastically extending the telephoto reach. With 300mm (450mm on DX format cameras) at the telephoto end, this lens leads the way in affordable and portable telephoto photography, ideal for family sport events and holidays.

Hold Steady

Incorporating the latest VR II (second generation Vibration Reduction) technology, the lens delivers sharper images when the camera is hand-held. This is especially useful when using slower shutter speeds at longer focal lengths, or when shooting in low light.

Keep Quiet

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR incorporates Nikon’s SWM (Silent Wave Motor). This ensures that the autofocus is fast and quiet so you don’t miss that crucial moment, nor draw attention to yourself in more private settings.
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR incorporates high quality ED and new HRI (High Refractive Index) glass elements to help deliver crisp images, even under harsh lighting conditions. The lens has a weather sealed mount, which means you can take it anywhere, without having to worry about moisture and dust infiltrating the lens or camera sensor.
Ready for adventure, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is an affordable and compact lens that will be a welcome addition to any camera bag. The lens is supplied with HB-57 lens hood to prevent flare in strong light and a lens pouch for safe storage and transportation. The lens will also be available in zoom kits with Nikon’s popular D-SLR range.l

Nikon announces AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

This new FX format zoom featuring an almost 11x zoom range, is the full-frame equivalent of Nikon's most popular zoom, the DX 18-200mm. It will be available from 2nd September at the retail price of $1049 / £869 / 1030 Euros.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 19 August 2010 – Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR with a totally new zoom range to the NIKKOR line-up. Featuring almost 11x zoom ratio from 28mm to 300mm this versatile optic brings new levels of flexibility to FX format DSLR users.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories and Software, Nikon Europe says: “We are really excited about this new, all-round lens in the NIKKOR range. The DX format 18-200mm proved to be a massive success, and we are happy to introduce FX format customers to the same advantages this lens can offer.


Extended 10.7x Zoom Ratio

The AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR’s huge 10.7 zoom ratio makes it the ultimate ‘walkabout’ lens. With an impressive 28-300mm focal range it is set to become a very popular all-rounder for those seeking ultimate coverage from a single lens, useful when travelling light, or working from a fixed position. The flexible aperture range keeps the lens size and weight to a minimum while still providing attractive depth of field effects at the telephoto end.

Advanced Vibration Reduction system

Nikon’s exclusive second generation Vibration Reduction system (VRII) enables steady hand-held shooting at all focal lengths with two modes: Normal and Active. The optical VR system also stabilises the viewfinder image, enabling more accurate autofocus acquisition and framing, especially at the longer focal lengths of the 300mm zoom range, where lighter weight lenses can increase the risk of unwanted camera shake.

State of the art optical construction

Despite the high zoom ratio, the lens features two ED and three aspherical elements to effectively manage the risk of aberrations that can occur with super-zoom lenses. The lens can focus as close as 50cm at all focal lengths for added flexibility.

Fast Handling

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) was designed specifically to deliver quiet and accurate AF operation across the extended zoom range with intuitive manual override. A zoom lock switch prevents ‘zoom creep’ (the lens moving under its own weight when tilted during transportation) and maintains compact dimensions when not in use. The lens construction features extensive use of magnesium for durability and provides well-balanced handling.

Complete with dedicated HB-50 hood and soft pouch, the AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR weighs in at an economical 800g.

Nikon outs new AF-S 85mm f/1.4G Nikkor

Rumoured for ages, Nikon has finally answered requests for an update to the AF-D 85mm f/1.4. But there's no VR and Nikon didn't use the opportunity to match rival Canon and offer an f/1.2 maximum aperture. The new lens will be available from the 2nd September at a retail price of $1699 / £1499.99 / 1776 Euros.

Press release:

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 19 August 2010 – Nikon Europe today announces a new fast aperture medium-telephoto lens – the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G. This lens supersedes the highly acclaimed AF NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4D IF with a totally new optical design, Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and Nano Crystal Coat, making it the essential choice for today’s portrait and fashion photographer. This lens continues the rich legacy of NIKKOR 85mm optics and reflects Nikon’s continuing dedication to optical innovation.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The new AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G takes portraiture to another level. Lenses like this encapsulate what the NIKKOR brand stands for: amazing contrast and resolution, with unique bokeh qualities.” He added: “We think it will set a new benchmark for stills photographers as well as the growing army of videographers using D-SLRs like the D3S.”

Bokeh Master

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G is designed to be the ultimate optic for professional portraiture. The fast f/1.4 aperture provides excellent subject-background separation, whilst the rounded nine-blade diaphragm renders stunning bokeh with smooth out of focus areas.

Leading Light

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G features a newly-developed optical system with 10 elements in 9 groups and incorporates Nikon’s exclusive anti-reflection Nano Crystal coat, drastically reducing ghosting and flare to deliver rich, high contrast images even under the most testing lighting conditions.

Smooth Operator

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G features a dedicated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to ensure quiet and accurate focusing. The gearing mechanism has been refined to offer extremely smooth operation when using Manual focus.

Tough Customer

As you would expect, the lens has the tough NIKKOR magnesium body and sealing against moisture and dust to continue working in the toughest of shooting conditions. Weighing in at 595g, it balances well on Nikon’s advanced and professional D-SLRs like the D700 and D3 series cameras.

The lens is supplied with a hood HB-55 and a soft pouch.

 

Sample images

Nikon D3x, 85mm at f/1.4, ISO640 courtesy of Nikon

Crop of same. Note the smooth areas of differential focus, or, what's becoming a more frequently used term, 'bokeh'. I reckon there's a hint of CA, too.

Lens construction

MTF

Herman Leonard, jazz photographer, dies aged 87

Pasadena, CA (PRWEB) August 16, 2010
Herman Leonard, a celebrated photographer whose iconic images of Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and Frank Sinatra documented one of the most creative eras of jazz from the late 1940’s through the 1960’s, has died. He was 87.

Leonard died August 14, 2010 at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.

Leonard was best known for his smoky, backlit portraits of jazz artists in New York, Paris and London. His images graced the covers of numerous albums and helped to form the visual archetype of the jazz musician.

Born and raised in Allentown, PA in 1923, at age 9, Herman Leonard witnessed an image being developed in his brother’s darkroom and became enthralled with the magic of photography. When it came time for college, Leonard chose Ohio University in Athens, the only university at the time to offer a degree in Photography. His college studies were interrupted from 1943-1945 as Leonard served with the United States Army in Burma with the 13th Mountain Medical Battalion as an anesthetist. Leonard returned to college and graduated in 1947 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree.

Leonard started his photography career in 1947 as an apprentice with master portrait photographer, Yousuf Karsh. After one year with Karsh, photographing Albert Einstein, Martha Graham and other cultural icons, Karsh encouraged Leonard to break out on his own, telling him “ I know you have it in you to be a great photographer. Go out and conquer.” Upon leaving, Karsh imparted the words “Always tell the truth, but in terms of beauty.”, a credo which Leonard lived by through his photography.

In 1948 Leonard moved to New York and became involved with the jazz scene there, making agreements with club owners to photograph rehearsals in exchange for photographs for their marquees. Leonard has said his aim was “to create a visual diary of what I heard, to make people see the way the music sounded”. Leonard formed relationships with many of the musicians he photographed and remained lifelong friends with Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones and Tony Bennett.

In 1956 Leonard was chosen to be Marlon Brando's personal photographer for an extensive research trip to the Far East. In the late 1950's Leonard moved to Paris and continued to photograph the prolific jazz scene, while working in fashion, advertising, travel and editorial photography.

In 1980, Leonard moved from Paris to the island of Ibiza, where he remained until 1987. During that time Leonard rediscovered his jazz negatives and in 1985 released his first book, The Eye of Jazz, published by Hachette/Filipachi Publications. In 1988, the first exhibition of Leonard’s jazz photographs was held at the Special Photographers Company in London. The exhibit was hugely successful and over 10,000 visitors came to view the first retrospective of Leonard’s work. Leonard’s first US show premiered in 1989 and toured nationally.

In 1992, Leonard moved to New Orleans and immersed himself in the city’s lively jazz scene and exhibited his work around the world in numerous solo shows. In 1995, Leonard released his second book, Jazz Memories, published by Editions Filipacchi and in that same year was awarded an Honorary Masters of Science in Photography from The Brooks Institute of Photography. Other awards include the “Milt Hinton Award for Excellence in Jazz Photography," from Jazz Photographer’s Association in 1999, the "Excellence in Photography Award” from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2000 and a "Lifetime Achievement Award” from Downbeat Magazine in 2004. In 1997 Leonard was the subject of the Louisiana Public Broadcasting Company documentary “Frame After Frame” narrated by Tony Bennett.

In 2005, Leonard’s home and studio in New Orleans were severely damaged in Hurricane Katrina and his archive of over 8,000 prints were lost in the flood. Fortunately, his negatives were saved and housed at The Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Leonard then relocated to Los Angeles and rebuilt his life and business there. In 2006, he was the subject of the BBC/Sundance documentary “Saving Jazz”, which follows a then 82-year-old Leonard on his painful return home and his efforts to rebuild his life’s work. In 2008, Leonard was the first photographer to be granted a Grammy Foundation Grant for Preservation and Archiving, enabling him to digitize, catalogue and preserve his collection of nearly 60,000 jazz negatives.

In 2008, Leonard was presented with the Lucie Award for Outstanding Achievement in Portraiture at the International Photography Awards. In 2009, he was Commencement Speaker and was granted an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from his alma mater, Ohio University. Also in 2009, Leonard was the official photographer for the Montreal Jazz Festival, photographing legends such as Tony Bennett and Dave Brubeck as well as newcomers such as Melody Gardot. In June 2010, The Montreal Jazz Festival awarded Leonard the Bruce Lundvall Award. In January 2010, Leonard was a guest of Lenny Kravitz in the Bahamas, where he photographed the musician in the studio working on his latest album. Leonard remained active throughout his life, photographing, printing and working on exhibition, documentary and book projects.

Leonard has five publications to his name, including the recently released The Jazz Image: Seeing Music through Herman Leonard’s Photography, published by University Press of Mississippi, the first scholarly book to examine Leonard’s work, and Jazz published by Grove Atlantic (UK) and Bloomsbury (US) due to be released in November 2010, which contains Leonard’s well known photography as well as many newly discovered images.

Leonard’s photographs have been exhibited worldwide and are in the permanent collections of many major institutions, including the Smithsonian Institution. His body of work is a historical treasure and stunning document of the evolution of modern Jazz.

Quotes
"In his long career, Herman captured it all beautifully and powerfully; however the importance of Herman’s jazz images transcends their visual appeal. They are documents of historic significance, cataloguing the development of one of the greatest art forms in American history. One cannot emphasize enough the value of Herman’s archive to our country’s musical legacy. When people think of Jazz, their mental picture is likely one of Herman’s” - Quincy Jones

“Herman is my favorite artist of any technique, he’s a painter with his camera, and he makes it look so effortless. His timing is as great as any Charlie Parker solo or Lester Young or Count Basie beat. Herman’s work will live on and in 50 years from now, when the revolution is realized, jazz will be recognized for the truly great American art form it is” - Tony Bennett

"Herman is an extraordinary talent, the greatest jazz photographer in history”
President Bill Clinton

“To speak of Herman Leonard's genius in the art of photography would be the obvious. His real gift was his execution of getting the most out of his life experience. The images that lived in his heart and mind outweighed his printed images. Herman's quench for life was insatiable right up to the very end. He lived every moment to its fullest. I was blessed to have shared beautiful moments with Herman that will be among the highlights of my life. I will continue to love you my friend.” – Lenny Kravitz –

More information can be found here.

Prep to Page enlight photo launches their first micro- documentary

MEDIA RELEASE
Auckland, New Zealand,
from Prep to Page    enlight photo launches their first micro- documentary, following the exploits of
adventure photographer Graeme Murray

Photo imaging innovators enlight photo launch their first micro-documentary this week. Follow Red Bull accredited adventure sports photographer Graeme Murray deep into the New Zealand rainforest on a real shoot for mountain bike magazine SPOKE.

Graeme has been shooting adventure photography and mountain biking for seven years. In 2006 he curated the world’s first international mountain bike photo exhibition. The film “from Prep to Page” gives unique behind-the-scenes insights for photographers interested in outdoor location photography and seeing how published work gets made.

The film features a cameo from Carena West, orbisTM muse and FHM Australia’s ‘Ultimate Girl Next Door’. Carena has also starred in various TV shows including Celebrity Treasure Island and the high octane Girl Racers reality TV series.

enlight photo have produced several short videos for online release, which include instructional lighting tutorials, behind-the-scenes photo shoots and TV news features.

enlight photo are the creators of the award winning orbisTM ring flash, which makes an appearance in the film, bringing portable studio lighting to the heart of the forest. The team are hard at work preparing the launch of their third exciting product, the frioTM; see www.friocoldshoe.com for updates.

Orbis maker to release world's first universal hotshoe mount

We've few real details other than a teaser from New Zealand based enlight photo, makers of the orbis ringflash, that they're about to release a universal hotshoe mount, "designed from the gound up for off-camera flash and HD SLR acessories'. Photokina is not far away now...

See here for updates.

Canon reveals tactics for Visa Pour L'Image festival

Canon's CPN newsletter teaser reveals their plans for this years international photo festival at Perpignan

CANON REVEALS EXCITING PLANS FOR VISA POUR L'IMAGE FESTIVAL

Latest pro products on show and special presentations planned

Canon has announced plans for an expanded CPS area and a new programme of presentations for the professional week of the Visa pour l'Image 2010 international festival of photojournalism in Perpignan, France, from 30 August until 5 September 2010.

The 'Canon Space' will showcase the latest range of Canon professional photographic products - EOS DSLRs, EF lenses, accessories, and G-series compacts - plus the XF305 and XF300 pro HD camcorders. At the expanded Canon Professional Services (CPS) area EOS DSLR bodies, lenses and accessories can be borrowed, and accredited Canon photographers can have equipment checked and cleaned.

From 1-3 September at Visa pour l'Image 2010 Canon will hold a special 'presentation programme' which will include Canon Ambassadors Michael Nichols, Paolo Pellegrin, Brent Stirton and Ziv Koren talking about their work, plus presentations on Canon PIXMA printers, Apple and Adobe editing packages, and shooting and editing EOS Movies.

The 'Canon Space' will also feature a superb exhibition of large prints of photographs shot by the Canon Ambassadors.

* To find out more about all of Canon's activity at Visa pour l'Image 2010 please click here.

Domke to open store in UK

NEW DOMKE PRO-PRESS CENTRE TO BE ROLLED OUT IN LONDON!

In a move designed to provide ready support for the Capital's vibrant band of professional, press and enthusiast photographers, renowned outfit bag and accessory manufacturer Domke has announced the imminent opening of a new dedicated Domke Pro-Press Centre at the Oval, London.
The premises will have on permanent display the full range of Domke bags in the various materials and colourways, with at its centre-piece, the much vaunted flagship Ruggedwear collection, now numbering 15 bags.
The selection will also cover off harder to find, but no less important accessories from the extensive Domke range, including film and dri-safes, lens cases, pouches and photo jackets.
Integral to the Domke Pro-Press Centre experience, visitors will be able to take advantage of the self-service configuration to handle items and will therefore be positively encouraged to bring in their own photo equipment with them to ensure they match exactly the right bag to their own individual system.
A further incentive to visit the Domke Pro-Press Centre is provided by a a range of special monthly promotions and discount offers, training and seminars, plus an upcoming loyalty scheme which will give members other benefits and exclusive deals.
Personal invitations for the grand opening can be obtained by visiting the web site www.domkebags.co.uk
The Domke Pro-Centre is part of a dedicated centre of excellence which will also provide open-house access to the multi-award winning Tiffen filters and software, Lowel lighting and pro-am models from the Steadicam camera stabilizing system range.
The Domke Pro-Press Centre will be located at LFC/Domke, Canterbury Court, 1-3 Brixton Road, Kennington Park, London, SW9 6DE, which is a few minutes walk from the Oval Northern Line Tube Station and other transport links.
Opening hours will be 9.30 am - 5 pm Mon - Fri and the Domke Pro-Press Centre can be contacted by telephone on 0870 1001220, e-mail: info at domkebags.co.uk web site: www.domkebags.co.uk

Hard to find Domke items such as the F-2 Original Bag in Limited Edition Gray finish will be on display at The Domke Pro-Press Centre.

Sony announces release date for E18-200mm F3.8-6.3 OSS

Sony has announced the E18-200mm f/3.8-6.3 OSS zoom for the NEX mirrorless cameras will now be available from September 10th, instead of the previously reported October 5th release date.

Update, 6th October: A spokesperson for Sony has told me the E18-200mm would now be available in the UK from early October (again).

For more information please see the Sony Japan site.

Trust rolls out new graphics tablets

Press release:

 

Trust gives space to creativity

Are you artistic? Then Trust has got something for you. Thanks to the introduction of two new graphic tablets, you can let your creativity run wild.

Dordrecht, August 2010 – Creative people are well looked after by Trust with the introduction of two new graphic tablets. With the graphic possibilities which the new tablets offer, you are only limited by how far your fantasy takes you.

Trust has the Flex Design Tablet for those who wish to combine creativity with style and appearance. The extremely flexible design makes it possible to take and use this tablet anywhere. Lightweight, paper-thin and energy-saving: the Flex Design Tablet is ideal for mobile users. The flexible tablet’s design makes it an attractive addition to any desk and the anti-slip underside always ensures a comfortable and ergonomic position, wherever the tablet is used. Free-draw or edit diagrams on the 155 x 119 mm work surface with the ergonomic, 3-button pen with 1024-step pressure sensitivity. The Flex Design Tablet comes with advanced software for drawing and editing diagrams.

Trust has the Canvas Widescreen Tablet for those who are looking for a versatile, professional tablet. This extra large tablet has a work surface measuring 250 x 150 mm, which is perfect for all graphical editing and graphical applications. The Canvas Widescreen Tablet is extremely accurate and comes with a wireless pen that works without batteries. The ergonomic pen with tilt sensitivity and 1024-step pressure sensitivity is the ideal weight and comes with a separate holder for storing the pen. There are dual touch pads in the top corners, which provide easy scrolling, zooming and volume control. The Canvas Widescreen Tablet also has a handy transfer sheet: place photographs under the sheet to make tracing, retouching and other graphical refinements easy.

The tablets will be available soon. For more information about the Flex Design Tablet, see www.trust.com/16937. For more information about the Canvas Widescreen Tablet, see www.trust.com/16938.

Recommended retail price, including VAT
Trust Flex Design Tablet - £ 24.99
Trust Canvas Widescreen Tablet – £ 149.99

 

Update: the 16938 – Trust Canvas Widescreen Tablet (above) has support for Mac OS 10.4 and higher.

Adobe announces Lightroom 3.2 and ACR 6.2 release candidates

Adobe has posted release candidates (a kind of advanced stage beta) for Lightroom 3.2 and the Camera RAW (ACR) version 6.2 plug-in for Photoshop CS5. This updates provides RAW file compatibility with new camera models. Most notable are the Panasonic Lumix LX5, Pentax 645D, Samsung NX10 and TL500 (EX1) compact, as well as the two Sony NEX models. The uber high end Leica S2 also sees an update for colour and noise profiles, ann interesting addition as the camera ships with Lightroom for processing RAW (DNG), after moving from Phase One's Capture One for earlier Leica models.

Lightroom 3.2 sees an enormous number of new lens profiles added, including a raft for the Pentax 645D model, suggesting perhaps that LR3 has been chosen by Pentax for supporting the new camera, instead of the usual SilkyPix utility. This would be an important consideration for professional photographers.

Adobe Posts Lightroom 3.2 and Camera Raw 6.2 Release Candidates on Adobe Labs

 

Adobe today announced the Lightroom 3.2 and Camera Raw 6.2 Release Candidates, available for immediate download on Adobe Labs. The updates extend raw file support to 12 new popular camera models, improve on several of the lens correction profiles introduced as part of the Lightroom 3 and Camera Raw 6.1 releases, and add over 50 new lens profiles to help photographers automatically correct for undesirable distortion and aberration effects.

In addition, the Lightroom 3.2 Release Candidate now allows Lightroom 3 customers the ability to publish their photos directly to Facebook from within the application, and addresses issues reported by customers on the Lightroom 3.0 release. Adobe continues to encourage the community to provide feedback on the updates so it can ensure the highest quality experience for customers working on a variety of hardware and software configurations.

Lightroom is the essential digital photography workflow solution, helping serious amateur and professional photographers quickly import, manage, enhance and showcase all their images from one application. The Photoshop Camera Raw plug-in provides fast and easy access within Photoshop to the raw image formats produced by many leading digital cameras.

Pricing and Availability
The Lightroom 3.2 Release Candidate is available as a free download for Lightroom 3 customers, and the Photoshop Camera Raw 6.2 Release Candidate is available as a free download for Photoshop CS5 customers. For more information and to test out the updates visit http://labs.adobe.com/. Feedback can be provided on the Adobe User to User forum at http://forums.adobe.com.

*Please visit the Lightroom Journal for more information on these Release Candidates and a full list of the improved and newly added lens profiles: http://blogs.adobe.com/lightroomjournal

Newly Supported Camera Models
Panasonic DMC-FZ100,
Panasonic DMC-FZ40 (FZ45),
Panasonic DMC-LX5,
Pentax 645D,
Samsung NX10,
Samsung TL500 (EX1),
Sony A290,
Sony A390,
Sony Alpha NEX-3,
Sony Alpha NEX-5

Also, this update improves the colour and noise profiles for the following cameras that utilise the DNG raw file format already supported in previous versions of Lightroom and Camera Raw: Casio EXILIM EX-FH100 (DNG) and Leica S2

Epson announce three new Artisan all-in-ones

Today, Epson introduced three new premium photo all-in-ones – the Artisan® 835, Artisan® 725 and an all-white Artisan® 725 Arctic Edition – designed to deliver quality, reliability and superior performance for today’s active digital families. The three all-in-ones deliver an array of unique features, including the world’s fastest 4”x6” photo print speeds, built-in Wi-Fi® n, wireless printing from an Apple® iPhone, a variety of creative applications, and image quality preferred by consumers 3-to-1 over the competition.

The Artisan 835 and 725 offer full-featured scanning/copying, automatic two-sided printing, and superior image enhancing tools. The flagship Artisan 835 also features a built-in fax, 7.8-inch smart touch panel, and a 30-page Automatic Document Feeder. In addition, the sleek, all-white Artisan 725 Arctic Edition gives consumers more options in matching the décor and computer equipment in their home.

Epson’s New Artisan All-in-One Printers Offer Superior Performance,
Image Quality, Convenience, and an Eye-Catching Design

Artisan 835 and Artisan 725 Deliver Unbeatable Features and Fit the Décor of any Room

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Aug. 4, 2010 – Epson America, Inc., a leading provider of superior performing desktop printing solutions, today introduced its new line of Artisan® all-in-ones – the Artisan 835 and Artisan 725. With image quality preferred by consumers 3-to-1 over the competition1 and a host of unique features, the new Artisan all-in-ones are a perfect match for today’s active, digital families that require one solution for various printing needs.

“These latest Artisan all-in-ones continue to redefine the standard for image quality, print speed and unique creative capabilities,” said Julie Ernest, product manager, Consumer Ink Jet Printers, Epson America, Inc. “From family photos and creative projects to school work and household documents, these versatile all-in-ones deliver the quality, reliability and performance consumers have come to expect from the Artisan line.”

The flagship Artisan 835 boasts a 7.8-inch smart touch panel, a 3.5-inch color LCD, built-in fax, and a 30-page Automatic Document Feeder to quickly copy and fax documents. The Artisan 725 features an enhanced touch panel for easier navigation. Both feature 2.5 times faster wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi n2, wireless printing from an Apple® iPhone3 and the world’s fastest 4”x6” photo print speeds4. In addition, the Artisan 725 and Artisan 835 deliver vibrant colors and crisp, clear text with Epson’s six-color Ultra Hi-Definition Claria® ink.

Additional Features of the Artisan Series:
· Delivers fast ISO print speeds of 9.5 ISO ppm black and 9 ISO ppm color5
· Offers built-in wireless and Ethernet networking
· Saves up to 50 percent of paper supply with automatic two-sided printing
· Creates personalized greeting cards, coloring book pages, elegant stationery, and note paper
· Creates professional-looking discs by printing images and text directly onto ink jet printable CDs/DVDs with easy-to-use Epson Print CD software
· Features built-in Auto Photo Correction to automatically evaluate and correct images and red eye
· Prints applications wirelessly from an iPhone, including PDF files, photos, photo calendars, business documents, and more, through applications available on the iTunes App Store
· Prints images directly from digital cameras, mobile phones and USB Flash drives with PictBridge®
· Accommodates various printing needs with individual ink cartridges at affordable prices (standard and high-capacity sizes)6
· Delivers vivid, true-to-life photos with Epson’s exclusive MicroPiezo® print head with DX5™ technology
· Offers a range of eco features and environmental qualifications including, ENERGY STAR® and RoHS compliance, and is designed to be recycled7

Pricing and Availability
The Artisan 725 ($199.99*) and Artisan 835 ($299.99*) will be available in mid-August through major computer, office and electronic superstores, a variety of retail stores nationwide and Epson’s retail site, www.epsonstore.com. An all-white “Arctic Edition” Artisan 725 ($199.99*) will also be available in mid-September exclusively through Best Buy to allow consumers more options to match the décor of their home and computer equipment. All models come with a one-year limited warranty and free lifetime phone support8 with quick and convenient product exchange. For more information, please see the Artisan 725, Artisan 835 and Artisan 725 Arctic Edition fact sheets.

Apple updates camera RAW compatibility v3.3

Apple has released Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 3.3
This update extends RAW image format compatibility to Aperture 3 and iPhoto '09 for the following cameras:

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
Olympus E-PL1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10
Samsung NX10
Sony Alpha DSLR-A390
Sony Alpha NEX-3
Sony Alpha NEX-5

The new update is available from the Software Update...option, and is also available directly from Apple's site here.

For more information on supported RAW formats, see http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3825le.com/kb/HT3825

Need To Transfer Images From Your Eye-Fi SD Card To Your iPad? There's A Great App For That

Yes, it's true, ditch your Apple iPad Camera Connection kit right now, with ShutterSnitch you can send the images from your Eye-Fi card directly to either your iPhone or iPad.

This app will bring relief to many, I have been constantly asked whether it is possible to wirelessly transfer images to your iPad from your Eye-Fi card and despite it being quite a challenge, I rose to the occasion and scoured the App Store until I found Shuttersnitch. You'll need to use a router or MiFi as obviously your iPad cannot create its own Wi-Fi network.

Then, once you have captured all of your images to the EyeFi card you will be able to beam your photos straight onto your iPad, or iPhone - there is also the facility to set up custom visual and audible alerts to let you know the shutter speed, ISO, aperture, focal length with more options penned for the future.

This app will appeal to many photographers and for $7.99 is an absolute bargain. Download here.

 

The Equipment Behind The 70-Gigapixel Budapest Photograph

I'm sure you've seen or heard about the incredible 70 gigapixel Budapest Photograph. I thought you'd like to see the equipment behind it two Sony A900s with 400mm Minolta lenses attached. Combined, these guys took 20,000 images to create the world's largest photo, to date.

Two Sony A900s With 400 mm Minolta Lenses

The Image

This 70 gigapixel shot of Budapest is so massive, you can zoom right into the windows of those apartments on the horizon.

See more, including the final image and a movie made on the day, here.