Stunning Photographs Taken By Blind Man

Photography is of course a very visual art and for that most of us are blessed with two exceptional human lenses. Imagine though, for a moment that you couldn't see but you still wanted to take photographs - sounds like some kind of mental torture. Not though for one unique man, Pete Eckert. Pete Eckert only took up photography after he became blind, he says 'I am only a tourist in the sighted world. I 'see' each shot very clearly, only I use sound, touch and memory'.
Take a look at this video that explains how Pete takes the images. Also, don't miss looking at some of his remarkable images below.


To find out more about Pete Eckert - go here

New iPhoneography Competition - Pixels: The Art of iPhone

In December of 2009, Knox Bronson approached Rae Douglass at the Giorgi Gallery in Berkeley, California with the idea of presenting the first ever gallery exhibit of iPhone photography. Rae said yes, and within days, Knox had created a website and had put out a call for submissions through iphontography bloggers and flickr groups.

Pictures flooded in from all over the world. Amazing pictures, all done on iPhones. No editing on a computer was allowed, and suspect images were checked and removed if found to have been edited elsewhere.

Well, now Pixels: The Art of iPhone has just posted a call for entries for an iPhone Photography exhibition at the Orange County Center For Contemporary Art in Santa Ana, CA. The exhibition runs March 31-April 30, 2011.

All photos MUST be shot with and processed using an Apple iPhone.  No computer-based processing allowed.  Any model of the iPhone may be used. Any image found to be taken with another device or processed on a computer or iPad will result in entrant being disqualified and forfeiture of entry fee.

Winning entries will be printed and exhibited in the month-long exhibition. There will be a program printed with all works, which will be available for sale.

The Entry Fee is  $30.00 for five entries. Deadline for entries is February 27, 2011.

The exhibition runs March 31 – April 30, 2011 at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art. The Opening Night Celebration is Saturday, April 2, 2011, 6 PM-10 PM

Click here for much more information and entry submission on the Pixels: The Art of the iPhone website.

10+1 Stunning Sports iPhoneography Images

Mashable like us have embraced iPhoneography, there are some superb camera apps available and with the skill of so many with an iPhone, spectular images are captured and most importantly, shared.

Mashable have taken a look at sport and have selected their top 10 shots, to view the complete article from Mashable go here. We have posted the images below for your enjoyment.

Image by Alexander Kesselaar

Image by Jamie Ferreyros

Image by Matthew Lacroix

Image by Menno de Ruiter

Image by Adam Lorber

Image by T.S. Elliott

Image by Jamie Pachomski

Image by Dave Weekes

Image by Juan Calderon

Image by Hans de Kort

The Basketball I

Image by Alexander Kesselaar

Fujifilm X100 - Final Specs Announced

Fujifilm have offically announced the X100, you may be forgiven for thinking this was announced at last years Photokina or in the numerous and subsequent posts since then. Well, today, Fujifilm are officially announcing the full spec of this amazingly popular camera, we have the details below.

You may or may not be surprised to know that this camera costs $1199.95. That’s twice as much as some very capable DSLRs, and more than similarly compact micro four-thirds cameras like the Olympus E-PL2 and Panasonic’s G-series. Is it worth it? Well as soon as we get our hands on it in March and give it a thorough testing, we'll let you know.

The true enjoyment of photography begins with "the pleasure of seeing the world through a viewfinder". The new Hybrid Viewfinder has been developed to reintroduce users to this essential camera experience. It combines the window-type “bright frame” optical viewfinder found in rangefinder-type film cameras such as the classic 135-size or medium-format cameras, and the electronic viewfinder system incorporated in fixed single lens or mirror-less digital cameras. 

By integrating a prism for the 1,440,000 dot LCD panel image on the viewing screen in the reverse-Galilean optical finder, the Hybrid Viewfinder can show both the shooting frame and a variety of shooting data. Of course, it can also be used as a high-quality electronic viewfinder to compose or playback shots. With this ability to instantly switch between optical and electronic viewfinder images with simple “one touch” control, the new Hybrid Viewfinder offers users expanded freedom in the composition and enjoyment of photography in a wide range of challenging shooting conditions.

The reverse Galilean optical finder with a 0.5x magnification features all-glass elements made from high-refractive index glass and demonstrates low chromatic aberration and distortion.

In optical viewfinder (OVF) mode, the brightness of both the “bright frame” and text data is automatically adjusted according to the brightness of scene area, ensuring that shooting information is always easily and clearly viewable. Also, the displayed shooting data is constantly updated according to changes in shutter speed, exposure, sensitivity and other settings, so that the user's eye never has to leave the viewfinder.

In electronic viewfinder (EVF) mode, the photographer can preview the picture or playback the result with the “through the sensor” image review and high-resolution 1,440,000-dot quality. With a flick of the one-touch lever, the user can switch to EVF to preview and confirm exposure settings, depth-of-field, and white balance – an especially useful capability when shooting macro shots and other scenes that are hard to confirm with only an optical viewfinder.

23mm (135 equivalent: 35mm) F2 lens. 8 elements in 6 groups. One aspherical glass moulded lens.

The adoption of the non-collapsible lens structure with minimized lens length not only contributes to the compact size but also eliminates telescoping of the lens when the power is on. It’s ready to start shooting the moment the user turns it on.

Exploiting the merits of a fixed focal length lens, this lens delivers sharp resolution of the total image from the centre to the corners. In addition, the lens features not only the large F2 aperture value, but also an optical architecture that maintains a high degree of resolution even when closed by 1 to 2 stops.

The adoption of a 9-blade aperture diaphragm combined with the large F2 aperture and high-quality optics lets users take photos with a beautiful circular soft out-of-focus (bokeh) effect.

Macro shooting as close as 10 cm lets users explore the fun and fascination of close-up photography.

The built-in ND filter (equivalent f-stop reduction of 3) can be switched ON/OFF via simple in-camera settings.

lThe FinePix X100 features a custom CMOS high-performance sensor, internally optimised and developed exclusively for this model.

Optimisation of the angle-of-incidence in conjunction with the specially developed lens maximises light gathering efficiency extending to the perimeter of the sensor for a sharper image with exceptional clarity.

When shooting HD movies, the combination of the large-sized sensor and the large aperture F2 lens, lets users shoot a soft out-of-focus touch (bokeh) — a capability not available in conventional compact cameras.

The ideal combination of a fixed focal length lens, high-sensitivity sensor (approx. 10 times the sensitivity of a conventional compact*) and a high-performance image processor captures exceptionally high-quality images over the entire sensitivity range, from ISO200 to ISO6400 (expandable to include ISO100 and 12800).

 *Compared with other FinePix compact camera models.

The newly developed EXR Processor takes EXR processing to new heights. Combined with the high-sensitivity sensor, the EXR Processor achieves the highest resolution, sensitivity and dynamic range ever produced by a FinePix camera for the ultimate in image quality every single shot.

The high-speed CMOS sensor read-out and the EXR Processor’s enhanced focusing system contributes to the high-speed AF performance, while the combination of the optical viewfinder and extremely low shutter time lag enhance the pleasure of every shot.

Beautiful, high-quality design inspired by the classic beauty and feel of traditional film cameras.

The top cover of the upper control deck and the bottom surface have been die-cast from magnesium alloy (semi-solid metal casting), contributing to a high-precision camera body.
All dials and rings are precision milled from metal. Adoption of traditional ‘manual’ dials lets the user confirm the position of the settings without turning on the power. The ergonomics of the design offer the perfect balance between compact convenience and user-friendly functionality.

The camera controls have been carefully thought out to give the photographer simple and speedy access to aperture, shutter speed, ISO etc, allowing maximum creative expression with minimum hassle and enabling you to view settings even when the camera is powered off. Custom modes can also be used for a one-touch change in settings. Premium quality is obvious in every detail. The chassis has been finished with high-quality leather-like accents and is a delight to use and a pleasure to hold.

In addition to Fujifilm's original Film Simulation Modes that give photos the distinctive look of Velvia, PROVIA and ASTIA colour reversal film emulsions, the X100 expands the scope of photo expression with Monochrome Mode that can be fine-tuned with R/Ye/G filter settings.
Separate adjustment of shadow tones and highlight tones lets users reproduce the rich tonality of high-contrast subjects.

Capturing the scene in RAW format is easy just at the press of the RAW Button on the back of the camera. Then whilst on the way to the next shooting location, users can use the built-in RAW Development function to "develop" the RAW data in-camera, and enjoy Fujifilm's original "image creation" according to the camera's image quality settings.  

The X100 offers users the choice between the 49-point auto EVF focus area or the 25-point OVF auto focus area as well as the selection of 5 different focus area sizes in EVF mode. Dependent on the needs of each scene, the X100 offers easy “focusing by design”.

HD Movie lets users capture the action in 720p high-definition detail. Just like shooting still photos, users can shoot movies with aperture-priority AE and enjoy a soft, defocused background effect. Also, the built-in HDMI port allows users to easily and directly connect the X100 to high-definition TVs to display stills and movies with plug-and-play ease.

With a built-in Motion Panorama function, it is easy to capture 180° and 120° panoramic photos. Later, users can print the results as pin-sharp A3-size enlargements and share the enjoyment of high-quality panoramic photography.

The X100 also features 4 types of bracketing functions: AE, ISO, Dynamic Range and Film Simulation. With just one click of the shutter, you capture 3 bracketed images of the scene so the moment never escapes you!   

CASE
To perfectly complement the look and premium quality feel of the X100 camera body, a retro leather "quick shot" case with matching strap has been designed to fit the X100 like a glove. Made out of luxurious leather it has been thought out with uncompromising attention to detail, ensuring the ultimate ease of use and practicality .

LENS HOOD and ADAPTER RING
Precision milled from metal, the lens hood and adapter ring will be available as a set. The adapter ring is also compatible with commercially sold 49mm filters.

TTL FLASH
EF-20 (Guide Number:20) and EF-42 (Guide Number:42) will be newly added to the TTL flash line-up.


Pre-order at Amazon US.

Capture every moment of your adventure with the new Canon EOS 600D

Canon today announces the launch of the EOS 600D – a compact, lightweight Digital SLR (DSLR) that makes capturing exciting, fun and creative images easier than ever. The perfect choice for aspiring photographers looking for a combination of outstanding image quality and ease-of-use, the EOS 600D sits at the top of Canon’s entry-level EOS line-up, above the existing EOS 550D and the new EOS 1100D.

Capturing stunning images and Full HD video has never been easier, thanks to a range of automatic shooting modes that beginners can use to instantly express their creativity. A Feature Guide has been added to the user interface to help you learn about the camera as you use it, helping to develop your photography skills. With an unrivalled range of EF lenses, Speedlites and other accessories to enhance your shooting, the EOS system holds the key to the perfect shot – wherever your journey takes you, and whatever the scene before you.

First-class image quality

The EOS 600D provides all the tools to capture beautiful stills and HD movies. Amazing picture detail is provided by a high-resolution 18 Megapixel (MP) APS-C CMOS sensor, which combines with 14-bit DIGIC 4 processing so you can capture the wonder of a beautiful blue sky and enjoy exceptionally smooth gradients between colours. The camera’s low light shooting capability enables you to achieve clear, natural images in darker conditions, with an ISO range of 100-6400 that can be further expanded to 12800.

Great for shooting pets, children or wildlife, the EOS 600D allows high-speed shooting at 3.7 frames per second (fps), enabling you to capture fast-moving action. Each shot will be captured in sharp detail thanks to the 9-point Auto Focus system, which can track subjects using the auto focus points across the frame. Even more accurate focusing is providing by an extra-sensitive central AF Sensor, while the iFCL Metering system from the semi-professional EOS 7D features a 63-zone Dual-layer metering sensor, helping you to ensure your shot is correctly exposed, even in difficult lighting conditions.

Easy shooting, amazing results

New fully-automatic Scene Intelligent Auto mode makes it easy for you to capture outstanding quality shots with almost no effort. Allowing you to focus exclusively on framing your picture, Scene Intelligent Auto analyses the scene for you and automatically picks the best settings to capture it. Your images will look better than ever thanks to a new ‘Auto’ Picture Style, which automatically makes fine adjustments to colours while you focus on capturing the scene you want.

The EOS 600D also makes it easy for you to instantly add creativity to your pictures. Change the atmosphere of a scene with Basic +, which allows you to pick the mood you want to achieve from one of eight options, including ‘Warm’, ‘Cool’ or ‘Intense’. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or close-up macro shots, Basic + makes it easy to capture the perfect image.

Simple, flexible, artistic

Ideal for beginners, a Feature Guide has been added to the EOS 600D’s menu system, offering a brief description of each key setting and its effect, helping you learn more about the camera as you use it.

You can also shoot overhead, at ground level or around corners with the EOS 600D’s Vari-angle 7.7cm (3”) 3:2 ratio ClearView LCD. Rich on-screen detail is provided in 1.04 million-dot resolution, and the side-mounted hinge allows users to comfortably and creatively shoot from a range of unusual angles, or when using a tripod. A smudge-resistant fluorine coating and three anti-reflection coatings also ensure you can see the LCD in clear detail, wherever you are.

Allowing you to apply your own stamp to your shots, the EOS 600D is perfect for experimenting with different Creative Filters. Fish-eye-Effect creates a barrel-shaped distortion similar to a fish-eye lens, and you can instantly turn a scene into a small-scale model with Miniature Effect. Toy Camera Effect, Grainy B/W and Soft Focus offer additional options, allowing you to experiment with your images in a number of different ways.

 

EOS 600D – key features

•        18-megapixel CMOS sensor
•        Scene Intelligent Auto mode
•        Full-HD EOS Movie
•        On-screen Feature Guide
•        3.7fps continuous shooting
•        Wide-area 9-point AF
•        1,040k-dot vari-angle 7.7cm (3.0”) screen
•        Basic+ and Creative Filters  
•        Built-in wireless flash control

Pricing and Availability

•        The EOS 600D (body only) is available from early April 2011, priced at £679.00/�.00 RRP incl. VAT.
•        The EOS 600D EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II is available from early April 2011, priced at £769.00/�.00 RRP incl. VAT.
•        The EOS 600D EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is available from early April 2011, priced at £949.00/𔚹,149.00 RRP incl. VAT.

Canon Celebrates Production Of 60 Million EF Lenses

Production of interchangeable EF lenses for Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) single-lens reflex cameras began in 1987 at the Company's Utsunomiya Plant, and has since expanded to a total of four production facilities including Canon Inc., Taiwan; Canon Opto (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.; and Oita Canon Inc. in Japan. EF lenses reached the 10-million-unit milestone after approximately eight and a half years in production, followed by the 40-million-unit mark in April of 2008. Due to the popularity of the EOS Digital series, production then increased and EF lenses achieved the 50-million-unit mark in December of 2009. Canon has since produced 10 million units just in 13 months and reached the 60-million-unit milestone in January of 2011.

First introduced in March 1987, along with Canon's EOS SLR camera system, the EF lens system has over the years featured a range of innovative proprietary technologies to lead the industry. These include such world's firstsi as the Ultrasonic Motor-powered lens (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS) to compensate for the effects of camera shake, Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) anti-reflection technology, and a super-telephoto lens that employs a diffractive optical element. Last year, Canon successfully launched the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, featuring outstanding optical performance and Image Stabilization.

Canon's current EF lens lineup is comprised of 65 models ranging from super-wide-angle lenses to super-telephoto zoom lenses, catering to the varying needs of photographers from first-time users to advanced-amateurs and professionals. The Company's diverse selection of lenses offers several features including a number of zoom options ranging from standard to super-telephoto, Image Stabilizer-equipped lenses, large-diameter lenses, macro lenses and TS-E lenses featuring a special tilt-shift mechanism allowing manipulation of image perspective and distortion. In addition, the EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM, the world's firstii fisheye zoom lens, is planned for market release in March of 2011.

Canon will continue to proactively introduce innovative technologies, striving to provide superlative image quality and reliability in lens production.

Canon to add 200-400mm f/4L to range

Canon has announced the development of a 200-400mm f/4L zoom to rival the hugely popular Nikon version, only this new lens features a built-in 1.4x teleconverter. With the converter applied (it has a locking mechanism from the picture below) the focal length alters to become a 280-560mm f/5.6 (we're assuming a one-stop light-loss). It's designed primarily for wildlife photographers (and especially the so-called safari crowd) but will also find favor with sports shooters. The small bulge on the side of barrel, with a lockable lever above, allows for the extender optics to be moved in and out of the optical train. The reasoning behind this? Well, Canon will have matched the converter to the lens, much like Nikon use to do with its speciailsed lenses; the 300mm f2.0 for one, but rather than supply it together (and run the risk of it being mismatched with the Mk II and Mk III converters) obviously decided the small penalty in weight and ergonomics was worth it. We shall see.

Canon announces development of a new telephoto zoom lens with an integrated extender

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 7th February 2011 – Canon today announces the development of a telephoto zoom lens featuring an integrated focal length extender – the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM EXTENDER 1.4×. The lens will be displayed for the first time during CP+, held in Yokohama, Japan.

Designed for Canon’s leading range of EOS Digital SLR cameras, the new lens will be an ideal addition for sports and wildlife photographers, offering exceptional flexibility with a built-in 1.4× extender that creates an increased focal range of 280 – 560mm. Perfect for photographers who require high performance, fast aperture and a flexible telephoto range, the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM EXTENDER 1.4× will enable photographers to shoot a greater breadth of subjects using a single lens, delivering the best possible image quality at all focal lengths.

Developed as a new addition to Canon’s acclaimed L-series of professional lenses, the new lens will offer an unsurpassed combination of versatility, first-class optical performance and an enhanced weather-proof construction. The model will be released as part of Canon’s continued development of its EF lens line-up, offering enhanced performance and improved functions that cater for the needs of photographers from beginners through to professionals.

Canon to exhibit new EF 200-400mm F4 L Zoom at CP+

Source: AkiharbaraNews


Still under development but here you are the first official shot AkihabaraNews took during today’s Canon press conference of the company upcoming EF 200-400mm F4 L Lens.

Canon introduce two new EF F4 L IS II USM Lenses at CP+ in Japan

Looking for a 500mm or 600mm Zoom lens for your 7D or 5D MK II? Well it seems that you are in luck, Canon has introduced today two new Zoom lens with the EF 500mm F4 L IS II USM and EF 600mm F4 L IS II USM. With the first model schedule to be available in Japan in May while you will have to wait until June for the 600mm.
Source: AkihabaraNews

"These lenses were made to be used under the harsh and challenging conditions faced by professionals in the fields of photojournalism, sports and nature photography. Utilizing valuable customer feedback, we have re-designed these lenses to create a powerful telephoto lens lineup for working professionals," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM Lens for Wildlife and Photojournalism

The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM is the successor to the current EF 600mm IS lens first introduced in 1999. This new lens has been engineered for outstanding optical performance and durability and includes two new fluorite lens elements for improved quality and reduced chromatic aberration. Helping photographers in the field, Canon has reduced the overall weight of the lens by a substantial 27 percent from 189.1 oz to 138.3 oz. The Image Stabilizer provides an equivalent of approximately four full shutter speed steps of shake compensation and has been enhanced through the incorporation of a rolling-ball-friction system in place of sliding parts in the compensation optics barrel for a minimum-friction structure. The overall durability of the lens has also been enhanced through increased usage of magnesium alloy and titanium for lens barrel components, together with weather sealing for all exterior joints and switches and a new fluorine anti-smear coating is applied to the front and rear elements.

The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens is expected to be available in June for an approximate retail price of $11,999.00.

Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM Lens for Sports and Nature Photography

The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM offers professional photographers a lighter weight option for those situations that require a long focal length with improved image quality and enhanced durability over its predecessor. Great for a wide range of applications, the EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens is ideal for professional photojournalism, sports photography and nature and wildlife photography. The optical formula of the new lens has been enhanced to include two fluorite lens elements for improved image quality and reduced chromatic aberration. Helping to reduce photographer fatigue and make the lens more portable, Canon has reduced the overall weight of the lens by 18 percent from 136.5 oz to 112.5 oz. 


The Image Stabilizer provides an equivalent of approximately four full shutter speed steps of shake compensation and has been enhanced through the incorporation of a rolling-ball-friction system in place of sliding parts in the compensation optics barrel for a minimum-friction structure. The overall durability of the lens has also been enhanced through increased usage of magnesium alloy and titanium for lens barrel components, together with weather sealing for all exterior joints and switches and a new fluorine anti-smear coating applied to the front and rear elements.

The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens is expected to be available in May for an approximate retail price of $9,499.00.

Canon engineers succeeded not only in reducing the overall weight of these lenses but improving on their optical performance as well. The optical formula of each new lens was re-designed to include two fluorite elements instead of one fluorite and two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) glass elements. The new lens element configuration weighs less yet performs better. Other factors contributing to the overall weight reduction include increased use of magnesium alloy, use of titanium and a smaller and lighter Image Stabilizer mechanism.


Optically, both lenses will outperform their predecessors through the use of two fluorite elements over the previous one fluorite and two UD glass elements. More fluorite results in better image quality as it reduces chromatic aberration to a greater degree than UD glass. The reduction of chromatic aberration contributes to superior resolution, contrast, and color fidelity; this is especially evident when used in conjunction with Canon's Type III EF Extenders. In addition to the fluorite lens elements, the new super-telephoto lenses also include a nine-blade circular diaphragm for a smoother appearance in areas outside the depth of field of the main subject. In addition, Canon's SWC (Subwavelength Structure Coating) is applied to four internal groups in each lens to improve resistance to flare and ghosting.


A convenient and useful feature when shooting in the often adverse conditions professionals find themselves in, these new lenses are treated with Canon's new fluorine anti-smear lens coating. The fluorine layer is highly oil- and water-repellent so that any oil smears or water droplets on the lens can be wiped off quickly and easily, without the aid of solvents, using a soft dry cloth.


The new Series II EF super-telephoto lenses can correct camera shake up to four full shutter speed steps, compared with two shutter speed steps with their predecessors. This improvement is made possible by a new low-friction stabilizer mechanism that is not only more efficient than the previous design but also smaller and lighter. Other enhancements to the IS systems of both new super-telephoto lenses have enabled quieter operation; ideal for use during video capture.


Canon has developed a third Image Stabilization mode option for its super-telephoto EF lenses. First introduced in late 2010 with the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM, and EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lenses, and now available on the new EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM and EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lenses, IS mode 3 is designed to provide professional sports and wildlife photographers with greater tracking flexibility. When mode 3 is selected on the lens, the Image Stabilization effect will not occur until the shutter is pressed, making the viewfinder image more natural in appearance while tracking a subject. In mode 3 when the shutter button is pressed halfway, the lens will begin detecting camera or lens movement and only during exposure, when the shutter is fully depressed, will the Image Stabilization engage.


Helping filmmakers achieve smoother and more appealing focus shifts when filming on EOS DSLR cameras, Canon has included a new Power Focus (PF) mode on the Company's new super telephoto lensesi. This mode allows manual rack focusing to be operated smoothly by turning a playback ring that is normally used for the focus preset function. Both low-speed and high-speed focus shifting are available.
Additionally, a new security slot attachment has been included on both of the new super-telephoto lenses to allow a wire-type security lock to be easily affixed, a great safety feature for professionals shooting from high vantage points above arenas and crowds.

The  EF 500mm F/4L IS II USM can be pre-ordered at Adorama here, and is currently $10,499, while the EF 600mm F/4L IS II USM, can be pre-ordered here at just $12,999.

Schneider Kreuznach joins Micro Four Thirds system group

Schneider Kreuznach, the german optical company behind many high performance lenses for medium and large format cameras, as well the popular B+W range of filters, has announced its intention to make lenses for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The optical company has officially joined the MFT System group; a consortium made up of not only Olympus and Panasonic, but also Kodak, Fujifilm and more recently Cosina, the latter recently introducing the Voigtlander 25mm f/0.95 Nokton.

- Press Release -
SCHNEIDER KREUZNACH now a member of the “Micro Four Thirds System Standard Group”

BAD KREUZNACH, 4 February 2011. Schneider-Kreuznach has joined the “Micro Four Thirds System Standard Group” – a consortium of companies with the objective of improving the possibilities and quality of compact digital cameras. Developed by Olympus and Panasonic, “Micro Four Thirds” is a standard for lens mounts that is tailored to digital system cameras. “This standard has great potential. It simplifies and improves the options for compact digital cameras and offers an excellent opportunity for the industry as a whole, as well as for us as a lens manufacturer. We are working intensively on a corresponding series of lenses,” says Dr. Josef Staub, CEO of the Schneider Group.

The standard defines the sensor size, the lens mount together with the communication protocol, the aspect ratio and the flange back distance, as well as the optical requirements for production and construction. The industry standard has been developed deliberately without taking into account conventional lenses, cameras or sensor sizes. In this way, compatibility problems with older components are avoided as is the need to compromise when designing new components.
The forum standard policy means that any member company can make and distribute accessories for the system that meet the standard. It is therefore possible to combine components from different manufacturers.

Top 10 Latest Photography Apps To Hit The iOS Store

There are some great new photography apps available for your iOS device(s). From PDN's new PhotoServe app that includes a visual database with information such as portfolios to client and award lists. The app is free and is definitely worth downloading. PhotoStudio also looks good and allows you to capture some great images on your iPhone. Take a look at this list and download a few of these apps, we're sure you will be pleased you did.

PhotoServe

PDN's PhotoServe is one of the most respected resources for finding great photography talent, industry information and the newest photo trends from around the world. This visual, searchable database includes over 1,100 updated portfolios, contact information, bios, client and award lists and social networking features. PhotoServe is designed for efficiency, with easy contact between creatives and photographers directly. Visitors build collections of favorite images
that can be e-mailed to prospective clients for fast decision making. It is a visual database of the world's best photography that continues to grow and provides free access to the latest news, trends, advertising campaigns and topical features in the industry. Art Buyers, photo editors and creatives can find the newest imagery and talent on a daily or even hourly basis.

Free/Download

PhotoStudio

PhotoStudio allows you to quickly edit images right on your phone. Adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance using an intuitive interface. You can also change the style of the image to black & white, softened, cartooned or sepia toned. Images can be quickly edited and then immediately saved to the camera roll for uploading or emailing.

$0.99/Download

PhotoLinks

PhotoLinks is a new kind of photograph organizer, by linking one picture to another. Prepare (or take) one picture, and put a marker on wherever you like. Then take a next picture. That's all you need to link pictures. It will help the problems like "I took so many photos, but I can't recognize where I took these. I wonder from which way I took them either".

$1.99/Download

muggum

How symmetrical is your face? Muggum can show you! Need a creative profile pic? Muggum can help you! This easy-to-use photography app takes images directly from the camera in your iPhone or iPod Touch and instantly creates two side-by-side symmetrical portraits, which you can fine tune using a bi-directional guide. Instantly upload to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and Flickr – or, save to Photo Album or Email. Take fun and hilarious pictures of yourself, your friends, your kids, your pets, or even celebrities in magazines! Great for profile pics and online avatars!

$0.99/Download

Photo Backup App

Photo Backup App will safely, simply, and securely backup your camera roll photos.

Most people don't realize that the photos they take with their iPhone camera (or iPod Touch 4g) are NOT synced or automatically backed up. We are used to our contacts, appointments, emails, and bookmarks being synced and/or backed up via MobileMe (or some other service), and many apps backup or sync their own data, but not your device's Camera Roll

$1.99/download

ePhotoPanel

Make some photos to one panel ePhotoPanel
ePhotoPanel makes some photos to one panel.
Just choose favorite photos from camera roll, you will make great work.
ePhotoPanel arranges photos automatically.
It’s very useful to make one panel from some snap shots of your vacation when send emails or share it.
Easy to make photo catalogs.
Check your pitching style with line sequence photos up.
Easy to record a plant observations.
Before and after the diet or go around the hair salon.
ePhotoPanel arranges so beautifully, you can easily compare photos.
The usage is various, depends on you.

$0.99/download

Feather retouch

Seamless cloning tool allows you to retouch skin defects, patch unwanted reflected light spots and duplicate image parts preserving their texture and make them looks naturally inside of paste context. You can make free shape selection just using your finger then drag and drop the selected part of the image wherever you want inside your image with both presented clone tools. You can also change the drag and drop direction to replace selected area with the content of other part of your image. Application also supports undo action. Edited images can be saved directly into your photo library so you can manage them and share with your friends as usual.

$0.99/download

Geo Album

Browse your photos on standard map or satellite map without drift issue!

★ Browser photos on maps. (support standard map and satellite map).
★ Photos taken in China can be displayed correctly on China map.
★ View GPS EXIF information.
★ Locate photo in the map.
★ Common current location drift issue in China region also can be fixed using Geo Album.

Free/Download

Photography Templates & Inspiration

This app gives you a lot of photograph templates that you can try to reproduce with your camera, allowing you understand the role of form and light in your photographs.

$0.99/Download

Crop Photo

Crop photos with no loss in image quality!

Rotate or flip your photos!

Handles extra large photos other crop apps can't!

Free/Download