Nikon adds new mirrorless camera system to range

After months rumours and denials, Nikon has added a new mirrorless system to the range. The two bodies, the J1 and V1 (pictured above) adopt an 10-megapixel CMOS with a 2.7x 'crop factor', when compared with a full-frame 35mm sensor. This new format, dubbed CX by Nikon is smaller in size than the Olympus/Panasonic mFT cameras (with their 2x crop factor format), allowing for smaller lenses and bodies but this will ineveitably be the expense of image quality at high ISOs for a given resolution. I'm sure it's  reasonable at 10MP but what sort of product cycle will this have? It's got to be yearly in this segment and that doesn't bode well.

Four new lenses have also been introduced, the 10mm (27mm equivalent) f/2.8 'pancake' shown above, plus three VR enabled zooms : 10-30mm, 30-110mm and 10-100mm PD (power-driven zoom). An F-mount converter, FT1 allowing AF with Nikon F mount (AF-S and AF-I) lenses has also been announced.

Pre-order from Adorama V1 c/w 10-30mm & 30-110mm kit zooms $1149.95, V1 c/w 10mm pancake & 10-30mm zoom $1149.95, or V1 c/w 10-30mm kit zoom $899.95


UK readers can pre-order from Warehouse Express here.


Press release:
Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 21st September 2011: Photography will never be the same again. Nikon today introduces a revolutionary new digital camera system, Nikon 1, with the launch of two new cameras, the Nikon 1 J1 and the Nikon 1 V1. This next generation pioneers amazing photography features such as pre-post capture technology that starts before you – enabling groundbreaking new shooting modes that mean you’ll never miss a moment again. Moving subjects like children are captured with ease, and photos become ‘living’ images.
"This is Nikon's most significant announcement since we introduced the digital camera 14 years ago" said Takami Tsuchida, President, Nikon Europe, "With the launch of Nikon 1, we're unveiling two groundbreaking interchangeable lens cameras that are packed with revolutionary technology."
Jordi Brinkman, Product Manager, Nikon Europe, said: "Our engineers have managed to house an incredibly powerful processor and sensor in a sleek, minimalist Nikon 1 body design: people will be able to take shots they didn't believe were possible. These are not only the world's fastest cameras - they have features that have never been seen before: shooting modes like Motion Snapshot and Smart Photo Selector are going to let people capture images in ways they could never have imagined, and the 1 NIKKOR lenses are unique in the way they've been designed with portability and movie making in mind."
Nikon’s market-changing Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens (A-CIL) has been specially designed to help photographers perfectly capture a moment in time, by combining images and movies. With the development of Nikon’s cutting edge technology, you’ll never miss a thing.


* Nikon 1 J1 is the world's smallest camera among competing interchangeable lens digital cameras equipped with image sensors larger than 1 inch. Nikon 1 V1 is the world's smallest and lightest camera among competing interchangeable lens digital cameras with an integral EVF. The world's shortest shooting time lag (as determined by Nikon performance tests). Measured when using the single-point AF mode and the shortest focal length of a standard zoom lens (1 NIKKOR 10-30mm). All details as of August 5, 2011.

Adobe release Photoshop Elements 10, Premiere Elements 10, bundle

Adobe has today announced Photoshop Elements 10 and Adobe Premiere Elements 10 for Windows and Mac. Both are available immediately priced at £79 inc VAT each, while the bundle is priced at £119.

For more information please see the press release for the bundle below:

Press release
 
Adobe Releases Photoshop Elements 10 & Adobe Premiere Elements 10 Bundle

Bringing Intelligent Photo - and Video-Editing with Intuitive Organising Power to Windows and Mac Customers
London, UK — Sept. 20, 2011 — Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 10 & Adobe Premiere® Elements 10 bundle for Windows® and Mac, the newest version of Adobe’s award-winning, Number. 1 selling consumer photo- and video-editing software*. This milestone release celebrates 10 years of bringing powerful, easy-to-use technology to consumers. Available as standalone products (see separate press releases) or as a single retail package, the Photoshop Elements 10 & Adobe Premiere Elements 10 bundle offers two complete solutions that redefine what it means to bring photos and videos to life.

“The Photoshop Elements 10 & Adobe Premiere Elements 10 bundle brings together all the functionality people need to easily create, perfect and share both photo and video memories,” said Winston Hendrickson, vice president of Digital Imaging Products, Adobe. “The new features expand the creative possibilities with photos and videos. And now, more than ever, people who capture photos are experimenting with video, so we’re offering new tools and technology that bring video editing to photographers in a way that is natural and easy for them.”

Make Every Photo Pop
Celebrating a milestone release and 10-year award-winning legacy, Photoshop Elements 10 features enhanced content-intelligent tools powered by the same engine that fuels Adobe Photoshop software, the industry standard for digital imaging. New Guided Edits, like Depth of Field and Picture Stack, provide step-by-step guidance to create awe-inspiring photos. Also, Facebook enthusiasts will now enjoy the ability to tag photos based on their Friends List, making the tagging and sharing process seamless.†

Photoshop Elements 10 also adds more ways to work with photos creatively, like the ability to add text that automatically follows the outline of a subject or a custom path and crop guides for the best compositions. Also, users can now apply 30 new Smart Brush effects by simply brushing over an area of the photo.

Create Amazing Videos with Ease
Adobe Premiere Elements 10 includes amazing new tools that take the work out of video editing and let users focus on making incredible home movies. From one-click tools that easily correct and enhance visual clarity for perfect colour throughout the movie, to new InstantMovie themes that intelligently build movies in seconds, turning great videos into lasting memories is now as much fun as watching them with Adobe Premiere Elements 10.
Enhanced pan and zoom capability adds drama to a story and automated options take the work out of finding faces with the pan and zoom process. Sharing finished projects is easy with options to upload directly to Facebook and YouTube® as well as export in AVCHD format allowing users to burn high quality HD movies. And for the first time, Adobe Premiere Elements offers enhanced performance for 64-bit Windows 7 users.

Quickly Organise All of Your Media
Uniting the power in Photoshop Elements 10 and Adobe Premiere Elements 10, the Organiser offers the ability to easily organise and manage files with precision so users spend less time searching for what they want. The new Object Search makes finding photos based on what is in them as easy as drawing a box around the object – from a landmark to a pet. Also, to keep an entire collection of photos organised and clutter free, the new ability to search for duplicate photos helps users quickly group and delete photos they don’t need.

Photoshop Elements 10 and Adobe Premiere Elements 10 users can purchase Adobe’s integrated online services Elements Plus, which includes 20GB of storage for automatic online backup and sharing (up to 15,000 photos or four hours of DVD-quality video), as well as access to an extensive library of how-to's, artwork, templates, movie themes and effects.‡

Connecting to a Mobile World
Photoshop Elements 10 and Adobe Premiere Elements 10 offer users a comprehensive set of sharing capabilities for today’s social and mobile worlds. Whether a social networking site or sharing service like Facebook, Flickr®, YouTube, Photoshop.com or a personal website, users can share creations directly from within the Elements Organiser and view them from virtually anywhere on the go.§ Photoshop Elements 10 also enables developers to create tablet and mobile applications that interact with the software via the included API, opening the possibilities for interactivity between touch devices and Photoshop Elements.

Pricing and Availability
Adobe Photoshop Elements 10 & Adobe Premiere Elements 10 software for Windows and Mac is available now at www.adobe.co.uk, and will soon be available at retail outlets such as Amazon.com, Dell, and Staples. The bundle is available for a suggested retail price of £119 (including VAT). New upgrade pricing allows past Photoshop Elements & Premiere Element bundle users of any version of the Photoshop Elements & Adobe Premiere Elements bundle to purchase Photoshop Elements 10 & Adobe Premiere Elements 10 for £98 (including VAT).

Information about other language versions, as well as pricing, upgrade and support policies is available at www.adobe.com/go/psepre_bundle. For free training videos on Photoshop Elements and Adobe Premiere Elements, visit Adobe TV at http://tv.adobe.com.

Education pricing for students, faculty and staff in K-12 and higher education is available from Adobe Authorised Education Resellers and the Adobe Education Store at www.adobe.co.uk/education/purchasing/education_pricing.html. Visit www.adobe.co.uk/aboutadobe/volumelicensing/education for more information about education volume licensing for higher education and K-12 institutions.

For more information, visit www.adobe.co.uk. To buy from Amazon please click here (available shortly)

Canon out ultra-high sensitivity CMOS sensor

Canon develop ultra-large-scale, ultra-high-sensitivity CMOS sensor, which makes possible wide field-of-view video recording of meteors with equivalent apparent magnitude of 10.  

Canon Inc have announced an ultra-large-scale, ultra-high-sensitivity CMOS sensor which has been developed to enable the video recording across a wide 3.3° x 3.3° field of view with an equivalent apparent magnitude of 10.

The sensor has a chip size measuring 202 x 205 mm, and is the world's largest* surface area for a CMOS sensor.  It has been installed in the Schmidt telescope at the University of Tokyo's Kiso Observatory in Japan.

For more details please see here: www.canon.com/

Five Photographers shortlisted for Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2011

Press release:

SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED - TAYLOR WESSING PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT PRIZE 2011
 
For the first time ever, five photographers have been shortlisted for the £12,000 Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize, the major international photography award. Firmly established as the leading showcase for new talent in portrait photography, the prize is sponsored by international law firm Taylor Wessing.
 
The Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2011 will showcase the work of some of the most talented emerging young photographers, alongside that of established professionals, photography students and gifted amateurs. Selected anonymously from an open competition, the diversity of styles reflects the international mix of entrants as well as the range of approaches to the portrait genre, encompassing editorial, advertising and fine art images. The judges have selected 60 portraits for the exhibition from over 6,000 submissions entered by 2,506 photographers. The exhibition will run from 10 November 2011 until 12 February 2012 at the National Portrait Gallery, London.
 
As well as the first-prize winner and four runners-up, the exhibition will feature the ELLE Commission. For the third year running, ELLE magazine will commission a photographer selected for the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize exhibition to shoot a feature story. The ELLE Commission was judged by the fashion magazine’s creative director, Marissa Bourke, together with the art director, Tom Meredith, and picture editor, Flora Bathurst.
 
With its substantial prize fund and high-profile exhibition and tour, the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize continues the Gallery’s long tradition of championing the very best contemporary portrait photography. The following five photographers have been shortlisted for the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2011:

Jasper Clarke for Wen

Born in the UK in 1978, Jasper Clarke studied at Edinburgh’s Napier University before moving to London to assist many high profile photographers including Nadav Kander and Liz Collins. His shortlisted portrait taken in Hackney is of Wen Wu, a Chinese artist and is from a personal project depicting artists, musicians and other creatives who live in their work spaces. Clarke says, ‘the portraits are not intended to elicit sympathy for the cash-strapped artist; they are more a celebration of people’s dedication in following a path no matter what the obstacles’. Leaving school without qualifications in 1991, Clarke began taking pictures with a camera given to him by his father. After his photographs initially being published in bike magazines he has gone on to shoot fashion campaigns for Paul Smith, Converse and Umbro.

David Knight for Andie

David Knight was born in Oxford in 1971 and currently lives in Australia with his wife and twin boys. His portrait of 15-year-old Andie Poetschka was commissioned by Loud for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance to raise awareness of the condition throughout Australia. He says ‘I wanted the portraits to be positive and to convey the kids in an uplifting way. You don’t immediately notice Andie is in a wheelchair; you just see a beautiful young woman. The image doesn’t demand you look at it, but gently draws you in.’ This is the third year running that Knight’s work has been included in the exhibition and this is his first time on the shortlist. He began his career assisting advertising photographers in London and Oxford before working in Dubai on a broad range of assignments across the region, including for Saatchi & Saatchi. He currently works in Sydney for advertising clients but manages to devote time also to portraiture and people-orientated assignments.

Dona Schwartz for Christina and Mark, 14 months from the series On the Nest

Born in the US in 1955, Dona Schwartz is an Associate Professor specializing in Visual Communication at the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota. Her shortlisted portrait is of Christina and Mark Bigelow from Minnesota in their son’s vacated bedroom. The image is from her current series, On the Nest, documenting moments of change in parents’ lives, and this photograph explores the emotions experienced by parents as their children leave home. She says, ’the transition to life as an empty nester lacks formal ritual observance. In this case there is no finite gestation period and the new beginning it heralds may be more sobering.’ Last year, Schwartz’s portrait depicting expectant parents Andrea and Brad, 16 days was chosen for the exhibition. Since earning her PhD at the University of Pennsylvania Schwartz’s work has been the subject of five solo exhibitions, numerous international group shows and is held in several collections including Musée de l'Elysée, Switzerland and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
 
Jooney Woodward for Harriet and Gentleman Jack

Born in London in 1979, Woodward grew up in Dorset and returned to the capital to study Graphic Design at Camberwell College of Arts, specialising in photography in her final year. Her shortlisted portrait is of 13 year old Harriet Power, a steward at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, photographed in the guinea pig judging enclosure. Woodward says, ‘I found her image immediately striking with her long red hair and white stewarding coat. She is holding her own guinea pig called Gentleman Jack, named after the Jack Daniel’s whisky box in which he was given to her. Using natural light from a skylight above, I took just three frames and this image was the first. There is something unsettling about the austere background and the scratch on her hand.’ After graduation, Woodward worked in the Vogue Photographic Archive of Conde Nast Publications before pursuing a career as a freelance photographer from 2009. Her series Unhidden: Documentary Photographs of Contemporary Wales was exhibited at MOMA Wales, in 2010.

Jill Wooster for Of Lili

Born in1977 in New Haven, Connecticut, Jill Wooster has lived in New York, San Francisco and currently lives in London. Her portrait is of her friend, Lili Ledbetter and was taken at Wooster’s flat in Peckham. She says ‘Lili is a complicated character. I like the way her androgyny makes her appearance seem both guarded and relaxed at the same time, capturing both her confidence and vulnerability.' The portrait is part of a series portraying women in their forties and fifties at pivotal stages of their lives, ‘some are dealing with serious life-changing issues while others are just dealing with the the process of grower older.’ Wooster studied as an artist at Bard College, New York, and supplemented her post-college painting career by working as a photographic retoucher. She currently works as a freelance photographer specialising in highly stylised and manipulated fashion portraits. However, in her shortlisted portrait the only retouching was some selective blemish removal.

The prizes for the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2011 and the winner of the ELLE Commission 2011 will be announced at the awards ceremony on Tuesday 8 November 2011 at 7pm. The Press View for the exhibition will be Wednesday 9 November from 10am until 12pm. The exhibition opens to the public on Thursday 10 November, and will be on display at the National Portrait Gallery, London until 12 February 2012.
 
The competition was judged from original prints by: Monica Allende, Picture Editor, The Sunday Times Magazine; Michael Bracewell, Writer and Novelist; Venetia Dearden, Photographer; Clare Ferguson, Consultant, Taylor Wessing; Sandy Nairne, Director, National Portrait Gallery, London (Chair), and Terence Pepper, Curator of Photographs, National Portrait Gallery, London.
 
Sandy Nairne, Director of the National Portrait Gallery, London, says: ‘Five great portraits emerged from closely argued discussion amongst the judges, and from another outstanding international submission for the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize. This is the competition that rightly produces much creative debate about what makes an exceptional portrait today.’
Tim Eyles, Managing Partner of international law firm Taylor Wessing says: ‘The outstanding talent and vision of this year’s entrants is as inspiring as ever and encapsulates a fascinating diversity of experience from around the globe.'

PUBLICATION
A fully illustrated book including photographs from this year’s exhibition features an essay by Michael Bracewell, Writer and Novelist, and interviews with the prize winners by Richard McClure. Price £15, 72 pages paperback. (Available from 10 November 2011).

Click here to pre-order from Amazon.
 
Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2011
From 10 November 2011 until 12 February 2012
Porter Gallery
Admission £2
Supported by Taylor Wessing

X-Rite announce rebate on i1 Publish upgrade

X-Rite Announces �/85£ Rebate Promotion for i1Publish Upgrade
 
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Sept. 15, 2011 – X-Rite, Incorporated (NASDAQ: XRIT), the world leader in color management, measurement and communication technologies, and its wholly owned subsidiary Pantone, the global authority on color and provider of professional color standards for the design industries, today announced a �/85£ cash back promotion for X-Rite customers who want to upgrade their i1Match, ProfileMaker or MonacoPROFILER software to i1Publish which contains the next generation i1Profiler color management software.  i1Profiler delivers an entirely new, flexible user defined experience to generate the highest quality ICC profiles for unrivaled color accuracy.
 
Fully supporting the new Mac OS X 10.7 Lion operating system, the latest version of i1Publish is a fully-featured ICC profiling solution that includes i1Profiler software, ColorChecker Camera Calibration software, PANTONE Color Manager software and two ColorChecker targets – ColorChecker Classic and ColorChecker Proof. i1Publish quickly and easily creates custom profiles for cameras, monitors, digital projectors, and RGB, CMYK and CMYK+4 printers, ensuring color accuracy from capture to output. It also features new assurance validation and verification functions using digital standards. 
 
Users of i1Match, ProfileMaker and MonacoPROFILER users will see improved color quality thanks to a new engine that creates highly accurate profiles for the truest color all the way from capture to output. A new user interface features both basic and advanced modes to give users the flexibility they need. It’s easily customized and enables users to save and share workflows or workflow components.
 
The following enhancements are what users who upgrade to the new i1Publish can expect:
·        Improved color quality - new color engine creates highly accurate profiles for the truest color from capture to output
·        New user interface – basic and advanced modes provide the ultimate flexibility; easily customize, save and share workflows or workflow components
·        Accurately capture colors every time with included ColorChecker Camera Calibration software and target
·        Accurately view colors every time on your monitors and projectors
·        Accurately print colors every time on RGB, CMYK and CMYK+ printers
·        New Quality Assurance Tools
·        Fully compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 Lion operating system
 
Through October. 31, 2011, X-Rite is offering customers a �/85£ cash back rebate on the i1Publish Upgrade A or Upgrade B for European customers who have i1XTreme, i1Proof, i1XT, i1Pro OEM, i1Photo Pro, i1Photo LT, i1Photo, i1Photo SG, i1Design LT, i1Basic, i1 Basic Pro, ProfileMaker 5, MonacoPROFILER 4.
 
For more information about the i1Publish upgrade and rebate, please visit www.xrite.com.

ThinkTank Photo announce Modular, Skin system sale

ThinkTank Photo has announced a 20-percent discount currently on Modular and Skin system pouches. The US based pro gear bag maker will also throw in a free item at checkout, either Pixel Pocket Rocket, Cable Management 10, or Security tag. However, for a limited period you can also select a LARGE Lens Drop In, RU Thirsty, Whip it Out, Skin 50, Skin 75 Pop Down, Skin Double Wide, Skin Strobe, or a Skin Chimp Cage. The sale starts immediately, but it's not clear when the sale ends.

For more information, or to buy, please visit our affiliate shop* here or the site at www.thinktankphoto.com.

(* It won't cost you extra, and it will help fund the running of the site)

Tokina roll out AT-X 17-35mm f/4 Pro FX for home market

Tokina Japan has added a 'compact' AT-X 17-35mm f/4 Pro FX model to its line up. It's the second AT-X Pro FX (full-frame) lens in its range after the press-orientated 16-28mm f/2.8 released earlier in the year. It will be available in Canon mount first, with Nikon (unusually) to follow later this month. Although it's said to be compact, the lens takes unusually large (82mm diameter) filters to prevent vignetting presumably, but it still weighs 600g and measures 94.5x89mm. There's no word on price or availability from European or American distributors at the time of posting.

The second and tenth elements are aspherical (precision moulded), while the eighth and eleventh are SD (low-dispersion). The rear-most also appears to be aspherical.

These MTF charts show the 17-35mm to be a good performer., especially centrally at 17mm, though the edges drop dramatically. Better overall (average) performance can be achieved at 35mm.

Panasonic expands and updates HD lens line up

Panasonic has announced today the expansion of the HD range of lenses - those that are capable of tracking focus and operating with low noise levels during HD video capture - akin to the MSC designation of certain Olympus' PEN lenses. Seven lenses have been added retrospectively to the HD range, while four (the first four in the list below), we're assuming, require a firmware update to meet this standard (we're currently awaiting confirmation from Panasonic on this). In addition to the reduction in noise levels, Panasonic say the v 1.1 firmware update also improves OIS performance during video capture. It's also good to see Panasonic letting go of the nonsensical naming convention in favour of the tradtional method using focal length and maximum aperture.

Panasonic Announces the Expansion of HD Lens* Line-up and the Firmware Update Program for the Interchangeable Lenses of LUMIX G Micro System

 

Panasonic has set a new standard for the camera’s performance of auto focus and its silence performance for users to fully enjoy HD video recording. The following seven lenses clear this standard to be introduced as the HD Lenses.

*HD Lens is a high performance interchangeable lens that realises high quality video recording. The lens excels in the performance of tracking focus in video recording while offering silent auto focus and exposure control.

HD Lenses of LUMIX G Micro System

(1)LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH. (H-H014)
(2)LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS014042)
(3)LUMIX G FISHEYE 8mm / F3.5 (H-F008)
(4)LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS100300)
(5)LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm / F4.0 ASPH. (H-F007014)
(6)LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS014045)
(7)LUMIX G VARIO 45-200mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS045200)

The lens (1)-(4) offers more comfortable HD video recording by improving the video recording performance with the firmware update.

 

Firmware Update Program Version 1.1
-Enhanced stability of O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabiliser) in video recording.
-Reduced sound of auto focusing in video recording

The firmware programs is available at http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/

Gura Gear out Chobe 19-24L

Earlier this month, and under our radar, Gura Gear announced the Chobe 19-24L shoulder bag. After the success of the Kiboko (30L) back-pack, this new bag promises to be a versatile addition to the range. As well as accommodating a 15-inch laptop, a couple of pro DSLR bodies and lenses the Chobe can be expanded to include an over-night change of clothes. The bag is constructed of lightweight but tough Sailcloth (a kind of heavy-duty ripstop), features a removable padded inner and has a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects. It's available for pre-order now at $349 plus shipping.

For more information please visit: www.guragear.com

Editorial comment:

While the Kiboko was outstanding (I reviewed one for BJP) this is a much tougher segment to crack, as there are very strong rivals in the form of ThinkTank Photo's Urban Disguise 60 and LowePro's Pro Roller Attache, to name but two (also reviewed). The Chobe promises to be light in weight though (well under 4 lbs with the insert) and it's able to accommodate pro DSLR bodies width-ways, something the Urban Disguise 60 and reserve shoulder bag of the Attache x50 can't.

I'm also looking forward to the Kiboko 22L. There are far fewer credible small backpacks out there. This* is one of the most compelling pro-level packs I've seen on the net, but, unfortunately, I've not seen it in the flesh. If the Kiboko 22L is similar (and it should be if it's a Kiboko) it should be equally outstanding.

*UPDATE 19/9/11: After sports photographer Dan Carr made comment about the WRP MP-5, it made look back to check and sure enough I'd made a mistake. It was this pack, the MP-7, I was referring to.

I forgot to mention the ThinkTank Photo Glass Taxi, seen above with the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II, complete with hood. This is another often over-looked back-pack as it's most likely used as a shoulder-bag (it has a built-in harness but also ships with a padded shoulder strap). The bright green grass comes courtesy of the JPEG engine of the Leica X1.

Here's another shot of the same bag, this time holding a D3x or D3s, I can't recall, but also the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200mm f/2G ED VR II (albeit without the hood) and AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G, with room to spare...

Gura Gear Chobe 19-24L additional images

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Carl Zeiss to offer UV and Polarizer filters in 77mm

Carl Zeiss is to add 77mm diameter circular polarizer and UV filters to their existing range. The company will also add 52 mm, 55 mm and 62 mm sizes in September with 43 mm and 46 mm as UV filters and 95mm in both types in January 2012. There are no prices available at the time of posting.

UPDATE: Like the maker's range of lenses for DSLRs these filters are made for Carl Zeiss, but they're not made by Cosina in this instance (or was it even likely), but by a well-known filter maker with "years of experience", according to my contact at Zeiss? That'll be either B+W or perhaps Heliopan, though the filters won't simply be re-branded but made to CZ's standards. One particularly attractive feature for many potential purchasers will be the T* coating, as it's known as being the best in the business.

Buy from Adorama Camera (they're only showing UV filters presently).

For more information please visit; www.zeiss.de.

Is there a need for Sony DSLRs now there's the NEX-7?

I wrote a while back that the then new NEX-3 and NEX-5 'missed the mark', slightly. And I'm still of that opinion as they use the APS-C format sensor - the same used in their DSLRs. While it gives Sony a better ROI I can't see the advantage over a DSLR to the end user. Why run two systems with different mounts? The majority of the lenses are going to have to be the same size. While it's true they can avoid the larger retro-focus designs for shorter focal lengths, Sony seems intent on producing new cameras, with barely any thought to lenses. What's needed are more primes, more pancake designs, and now that they've introduced the NEX-7 (shown above) with a built-in finder, as I suggested they ought to do (I'm not taking any credit), they could really start to appeal to professional users. Indeed, there's no real reason why Sony couldn't drop the Alpha range entirely, providing the EVF was good enough, especially as the NEX mount looks large enough to accommodate a full frame sensor...

TheAppWhisperer Now Writing For DPReview

Lots of things have been going on behind the scenes of our sister site theappwhisperer.com and finally we can reveal one of the many exciting ventures. TheAppWhisperer is also writing for DPReview.com, all about photography apps, whether that's on iOS or Android platforms.

This exicting new project will help ensure theappwhisperer.com gains the maximum exposure possible, DPReview receives over 8 million unique visitors per month and all our articles will carry a link back to theappwhisperer.com us as well as a bio and soon, even more.

Don't miss our latest article that's just gone live at DPReview - it's quite a definitive article as an overview of the photography app market. Just click here to be redirected.

Fuji roll out X10

Fuji are sure to steal a large slice of the high-end compact market with this new addition, if looks are anything to go by. Uncharacteristically, we've not heard from the UK PR firm handling this announcement, so we've no word as yet on price or availability, though this US press release mentions November 2011.

It looks like Fuji has adopted the same rear layout as the X100 - the rotary dial on the rear requires absolute finger-tip precision, and there's still no direct control of ISO. I would of preferred to see the EV compensation dial as an ISO dial but, hey, that's just me. It's hard to say if the second 'command dial' on the rear is a proper dial or just a rocker switch - it looks like the latter, and I would imagine it's programmable so you will most likely be able to select ISO from here, a la Ricoh GXR et al.

Press release:

FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES THE NEW PREMIUM COMPACT FUJIFILM X10 DIGITAL CAMERA: LARGE SENSOR, BRIGHT LENS AND WIDE OPTICAL VIEW FINDER IN A RETRO BLACKOUT DESIGN

FUJIFILM X10 Features a 2/3" EXR CMOS Sensor with a Maximum F2.0 Aperture

Valhalla, N.Y., September 1, 2011 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the all new premium compact FUJIFILM X10 digital camera, featuring a new larger 2/3” 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor and a bright, high-definition FUJINON1 F2.0 wide-angle to F2.8 telephoto, 4x manual zoom lens (28-112mm)2 with a proprietary Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) that produces superb image quality from edge to edge. 

The sleek X10 is a sophisticated compact digital camera that follows in the footsteps of the multi-award winning FUJIFILM X100, and it now combines a trim and refined blackout design, an easy-to-use manual barrel zoom lens and a traditional optical viewfinder with a wide 20° field of view for exceptional image composition.

The X10’s stunning body is built from lightweight, yet ultra strong, die-cast magnesium alloy and has an upper control deck with mode dials and an aluminum milled, textured finish lens ring. The 4x manual zoom lens ring doubles as an on/off power switch, ensuring fast start times to capture even the most fleeting shooting scenario.

“Fujifilm is dedicated to elevating the art of digital photography, and the X10 premium compact underscores that commitment by offering first-class image quality, beautiful styling and the innovative technology that exceeds consumers’ expectations,” said Go Miyazaki, division president, Imaging and Electronic Imaging Divisions, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “The X10’s thoughtfully laid out design, large EXR CMOS sensor, bright lens and manual zoom make it an outstanding choice when image quality simply cannot be compromised.”    
                                                                                      
Exceptional Image Quality
The X10 features a newly-developed, larger 2/3" 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor that combines Fujifilm's proprietary EXR technology with CMOS technology to provide bright, sharp images in all shooting conditions. The intelligent EXR CMOS sensor automatically selects the optimum shooting mode from a total of 99 different variations to capture every type of scene perfectly, even in the most difficult photography situations.
The X10’s EXR CMOS sensor selects the optimum shooting mode for any lighting situation:
• SN (Signal to Noise) High Sensitivity and Low Noise – produces clear and sharp high-sensitivity images while keeping noise levels low, which is ideal for capturing night scenes or indoor situations with poor lighting.
• DR (Dynamic Range) Wide Dynamic Range – delivers an increased dynamic range (up to 1600%) to deliver rich gradations and detail in both shadows and highlights.
• HR (High Resolution) – takes full advantage of the 12 megapixel resolution to reproduce the finest details in landscape and portrait scenes, perfect for use on bright clear days.
The X10’s fast EXR processor also delivers high-speed continuous shooting –
up to 7 frames per second – at the full 12 megapixel resolution (L size), and 10 frames per second at the reduced resolution M size.

Bright Optical System
The X10 features a newly-developed high-definition FUJINON 4x manual zoom lens (28-112mm) with a Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) that achieves superb image clarity from edge to edge. By treating all of the lens elements with the multilayer Super EBC, the X10 expertly reduces ghosting and lens flare and delivers an impeccably sharp image.
The lens consists of 11 glass lens elements in 9 groups, including 3 aspherical glass lens elements (6 sides) and 2 extra-low dispersion lens elements. Together with its wide-angle maximum aperture of F2.0 to a maximum telephoto aperture of F2.8, the X10 delivers beautiful, bright images with outstanding clarity.
In its spacious glass optical viewfinder, the X10 uses an arrangement of 3 aspherical lenses plus a special 2 glass prism configuration to give the photographer a composition experience that is marked by superior brightness and superb field of view with its extra wide 20° viewing angle.

X10 Premium Shooting Experience
In less than one second, photographers can be ready to shoot in almost any situation thanks to the X10’s power switch that has been aptly integrated into the manual zoom barrel. This smart and simple design feature allows faster photography response times and helps to avoid missed photo opportunities.
Once ready to shoot, the X10’s all-metal lens barrel and smooth zoom rotation helps you compose photos quickly and easily, and its remarkably quick shutter-release lag time of approximately 0.01 seconds lets you capture even the most momentary of photography scenarios.

The X10 also features a newly developed Optical Image Stabilization mechanism that all but eliminates motion blur by maximizing sensor performance, and its 49-point matrix contrast auto focus provides high-speed and high-precision focusing thanks to the fast CMOS capabilities and the advanced EXR Processor system.
The X10’s lens is capable of taking super-macro shots as close up as 1cm, and combined with its 7-blade aperture, the X10 generates a stunning soft-focus “bokeh” effect that makes it the ideal choice for shooting perfect portraits.
The X10 is proudly manufactured in Japan, and as a mark of true quality, it prominently features the words “made in Japan” along the rear of the chassis near the viewfinder.

X10 Key Features:
• 4x manual optical zoom featuring Fujifilm’s new Intelligent Digital Zoom technology that doubles telephoto capabilities and provides up to 8x zoom
• Fast power start-up; the X10 is fully ready to shoot in approximately 0.8 seconds using the on/off power switch built into the lens ring (must be in Quick Start mode)
• High-contrast and wide viewing-angle 2.8" 460K dot high contrast LCD screen that provides excellent viewing even outdoors and in bright sunlight
• Diverse manual shooting modes that can be selected according to scene type (Program / Aperture Priority / Shutter Speed Priority / Manual)
• Four diverse auto bracketing functions for exposure, ISO sensitivity, dynamic range and film simulation
• RAW shooting and in-camera RAW processing (SilkyPix RAW conversion software supplied in-box)
• Best-in-class3 1080p Full HD movie recording capabilities
• Film Simulation Modes (eight setting are available, including Velvia / PROVIA / ASTIA)
• Manual pop-up flash with a range of 7 meters (approximately 23 feet)
• Electronic horizon leveling gauge to ensure that the camera is being held level, and histogram display to check image gradation
• Motion Panorama 360° for seamless 360-degree panoramic shooting
Premium Accessories
To perfectly complement the look and first-class feel of the X10 camera body, the following premium accessories will be available:
• Case – a retro-style "quick shot" case with matching strap made from luxurious leather (LC-X10)
• Lens Hood – precision milled from metal, the lens hood with adapter ring is also compatible with commercially sold 52mm filters and lens caps (LH-X10)
• TTL Flash – Fujifilm External Automatic Flashes EF-20 (Guide Number:20) and EF-42 (Guide Number:42) are compatible with the X10
The X10 will be available in early November 2011.
1 High quality FUJINON lenses are used widely in the broadcasting industry worldwide. For more
    information please visit: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/fujinon/
2 35mm equivalent
3 Digital cameras equipped with a 2/3" image sensor

More information can be found here.

Samsung to add NX200 to the range

Press release:

 

Premium Style Meets Professional Performance
Capture memorable images in the best picture quality with the Samsung NX200

London, UK - September 1, 2011 – Today at IFA 2011, Samsung Electronics, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, announces the launch of the new NX200, a new compact system camera that delivers professional standard photography. The NX200 guarantees an easy experience that lets you unleash your creativity to its full. It features premium functions such as a 20.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, high speed capture (including 100ms Advanced Auto Focus), wide range ISO (100-12800), HD movie recording, and Samsung’s unique i-Function lens. With high-performance features built into a compact premium metallic design, with the NX200 you no longer have to choose between style and quality images.
 
The Samsung NX200 is the perfect combination of design and professional performance, delivering DSLRquality imaging in a camera that is compact and easy to use. The camera incorporates a 20.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor developed in-house by Samsung, ensuring a high quality image, which shows every detail and puts high performance at the fingertips of all photographers. To allow for high speedcapture, the NX200 achieves 100ms Advanced AF speed and thanks to its Fast Boot and seven frames per second continuous shooting it’s the perfect way to capture that split-second action in an instant. So that you never miss a moment you can even move from shot to shot in only 400ms.
 
In addition, the camera’s wide range ISO (100-12800, covering seven steps) gives life-like colour and sharp details, even in dark environments or when capturing still images of moving objects. To capture movement on video, the NX200 also features 1920x1080/30p (H.264) HD movie recording and Stereo Sound for exciting and vivid video. All this is incorporated into a compact and sleek body with a premium metal design, light enough to be carried anywhere in a jacket pocket and stylish enough for a camera to be proud of.
 
The NX200 also enables state of the art usability through Samsung’s i-Function 2.0 lenses, which allow the user to control a range of parameters from the lens without having to take their eye off the shot. The NX200 is fully compatible with the wide range of nine different i-Function lenses, which enable toggling between shutter speed, aperture, EV, WB, and ISO quickly, and easily through the button and ring on the lens. With the upgraded i-Function 2.0 on the NX200, users can also control six different Smart Filters and the intelli-Zoom function from the lens whilst in Lens Priority Mode. New lenses for the i-Function system include 18-200mm, 16mm, 60mm and 85mm focal lengths.  
 
Nick White, Head of Digital Imaging, Samsung UK comments: “With the NX range we have pioneered the compact system camera that allows any user to get the results that they’ve always wanted from their pictures without having to manage complicated controls or carry heavy, clunky equipment. The NX200 is the next step in providing the ambitious amateur with first-class picture quality through the combination of professional standard features such as a 20.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, high speed capture, wide-range ISO and HD movie capabilities. With technology like this built into a stylish and compact body, the NX200 is the ultimate camera forachieving professional quality in a compact camera.”
 
He continued: “The NX200 represents Samsung’s continued commitment to leading the way in making cutting-edge technology fit the needs and knowledge of the consumer, providing technology does not need to be complicated to deliver great results, every time.”  

Olympus adds teleconverter to XZ-1 range

Olympus has announced a 1.7x tele-conversion lens for the excellent XZ-1 compact. The TCON-17X (above) must be attached using the CLA-12 adapter (shown below) and will turn the 28-112mm f/1.8-2.5 of the XZ-1 into the equivalent of a 48-190mm with no loss of lens speed. It's too early to say if the adapter can be used to add filters (without using the teleconverter) but it looks too short given the lens' extension.

Update: Olympus claim ithe adapter can be used with 55mm filters (a polariser, for example, or even a square filter system such as those from Cokin or LEE).

The TCON-17X tele conversion lens is available for £149.99 and the CLA-12 adapter for £39.99, both from September 2011.

Press release:

Game-changing Olympus XZ-1 gets tele conversion lens
 
Accessories boost high-quality magnification by 1.7x

Olympus’ multi award-winning XZ-1 compact camera just got even better, with the launch of a powerful and bright new tele conversion lens and adapter. The TCON-17X adds outstanding magnification and flexibility to the flagship digital compact’s already impressive optical talents, with no loss of lens speed.

The TCON-17X tele conversion lens is available for £149.99 and the CLA-12 adapter for £39.99, both from September 2011.

With the XZ-1 set to maximum telephoto, the new TCON-17X tele conversion lens lets you get 1.7 times closer, with a 1:2.5 F-number. Unlike with lesser lenses, it doesn’t affect the trademark luminance of the i.ZUIKO DIGITAL lens that comes with the XZ-1. The required CLA-12 adapter also makes it possible to attach a 55mm filter.

The XZ-1 comes in a matt black or white lacquered body with a large 3-inch OLED screen and costs £399.99.

TCON-17X main features:

Outstanding 1.7x magnification
Weight: approx. 280g
Length: approx. 77.5mm
Maximum diameter: 80.9mm
Focal length (with XZ-1): 190mm*
F-number: 1:2.5 at maximum telephoto
Minimum focusing distance: 3m
Attachable to XZ-1 using CLA-12 adapter

CLA-12 main features:

Weight: approx. 50g
Length: approx. 41.45mm
Maximum diameter: 58mm
Attachment dimension: 46.5mm
Filter size: 55mm
Attaches TCON-17X to XZ-1
Also attaches 55mm filter to XZ-1

Hasselblad announce firmware update for the H4D 40 and 50

This is timely. I've just come back from Hasselblad UK after reviewing the H4D 60 with the new firmware for Hotshoe International magazine, and can say the update is well worth installing. The update allows full use of the screen's resolution (originally 230K dot up to 460K dot) making the one click focus check feature all the more relevant, while the bi-directional spirit level (visible on the rear screen and in the viewfinder, albeit uni-directional in the finder) and the option to use the back on view cameras using FireWire 800 to tether and power, could be very welcome features. The Live View option is similarly useful but the image is in mono and refreshes very slowly (about once a second or so) - it's a far cry from modern video-enabled DSLRs but will certainly be of use for product photography.

The new firmware for the H4D 40/50 will be free and available to download from December 1, 2011.

Press Release

Copenhagen, August 31 st 2011

Hasselblad announces free firmware update that brings the H4D-60’s hottest new features to the H4D-40 and H4D-50

A recent firmware update for the H4D-60 brought Hasselblad’s flagship camera to a new level of sophistication with added features and functionality. Now, H4D-40 and H4D-50 users can benefit from the same advancements thanks to the free user-installable firmware.

Hasselblad is supporting this exciting news with a campaign that sends photographers an extraordinary message:

“You’ve got a brand new camera (You just don’t know it yet)”. So let’s take a quick look at some of the advanced features that turn existing H4D-40, H4D-50, H4D-50MS and H4D-200MS into a brand new camera and make them even more valuable to professional photographers:

- One click focus check that zooms into 100% and takes advantage of the camera’s updated ability to utilize every pixel of the monitor’s resolution.

- A bi-directional spirit level that puts an end to skewed horizons.

- Quick access to a new rear info screen to display top panel information on the rear display.

- Live video view mode via Phocus when working with the camera connected to a computer.

- Schneider and Rollei electronic shutters are supported by H4D-40, H4D-50 and H4D-60 for accurate work on technical cameras.

Providing this update to the listed members of the H4D family is part of Hasselblad’s commitment to ensure that its customers have access to leading edge technology without any additional investment.

The free and user-installable firmware updates will be available beginning December 1, 2011.

Photographers can get more information and a sneak peek at the additional features before downloading at: www.hasselblad.com/upgrade

Panasonic announces firmware upgrade of Lumix DMC-LX5

The LX5 goes from strength-to-strength as one of the best compacts for serious use (remote operation with Eye-Fi cards, quick movie capture etc).

Press release:

Panasonic updates firmware of DMC-LX5 to enhance its performance with a significant upgrades and improvements
 
A new firmware will be released for the LUMIX premium compact digital camera DMC-LX5. The firmware version 2.0 improves the camera’s performance and upgrades various functions while enhancing the usability.
 
Some of these improvements include:
 
The redesigned algorithm makes it possible to speed up the AF time by reducing it by approx. 23% at the wide-end, which is the fastest level of speed in class. The High ISO NR (Noise Reduction) mode is newly added to offer noise reduction specifically to the images shot at high ISO 1600/3200 sensitivity. The performance of auto white balance adjustment is improved in low light situations.

Digital Journal of Photography: Panasonic roll out two power-zoom lenses for Lumix...

Digital Journal of Photography: Panasonic roll out two power-zoom lenses for Lumix...: Press release: Panasonic Launches World-First High Performance Interchangeable Power Zoom ...

Panasonic roll out two power-zoom lenses for Lumix G

Press release:

Panasonic Launches World-First High Performance Interchangeable Power Zoom Lenses for Lumix G Cameras
 
LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm and
LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm
 
26th August 2011 – Panasonic today announced the arrival of two new high performance interchangeable lenses for their Lumix G System cameras; the Lumix G X H-PS14042 and X H-PS45175. The new ultra compact electronic power zoom lenses are the first from the premium lens brand, ‘X’ for LUMIX G. Lumix G X lenses are a new breed of the highest quality zoom lenses, based on the Micro Four Thirds System standard. Their focal lengths complement each other perfectly for quality wide angle, portrait and landscape imagery,
 
The new LUMIX premium ‘X’ brand is at the forefront of the next generation of camera lenses; utilising the best in advanced optical performance. The new lenses feature Panasonic’s unique nano surface coating technology, optical image stabilisation (POWER O.I.S.) and aspherical and ED glass elements to achieve superb image quality while maintaining compact and light design.  
 
Stunning, precise images and silent zooming
Both lenses utilise Panasonic’s nano surface coating to significantly minimise the reflection at entire visual light range. The results are incredibly clear pictures and a dramatic reduction in ghosting and lens flare. The zoom lever on the lens barrel, an industry-first for interchangeable lenses, provides the user with fast, precise and silent zooming especially when shooting HD video recording. Manual focusing is also available, with the manual focus lever for users requiring a more precise control.
 
Clear and sharp imagery
The new POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilisation) which is newly integrated in both the LUMIX G X lenses makes it easy to take images with great clarity even in low-light conditions. With the improved sensitivity of the gyro sensor, the new POWER O.I.S. dramatically improves the hand-shake correction power - resulting in visibly improved sharpness.
 

Small in your pocket, big in performance - The new 14-42mm X Zoom lens
Specifically, the new LUMIX G X H-PS14042 lens offers a versatile zoom range that extends from 14mm to 42mm (35mm equivalent: 28-84 mm) making it suitable for a wide range of scenes, from dynamic landscape shots to impressive portrait images. The collapsible power zoom lens is ultra-compact when not in use, and expands to a 3x zoom lens when switched on. It is approximately the same size as a 20mm pancake lens but with the added features that a zoom brings. The two ED lenses and four aspherical lenses correct a variety of aberrations to deliver excellent optical performance whilst minimising distortion levels and chromatic aberration even at the 28mm wide-end.

In comparison to the Lumix G Standard 14-42mm kit lens, these new lenses provide significant improved optical performance yet achieve a 58% reduction in size (when turned off) and a 48% reduction in weight.
 
So close but yet so far – The new 45-175mm X zoom lens
The new LUMIX GX H-PS45175 tele-zoom lens has a versatile focal range from 45mm to 175mm (35 mm equivalent: 90-350 mm). It features notably high contrast and resolution for images shot at its wider-end, which makes it great for taking portrait shots; meaning it complements the LUMIX G X H-PS14042 lens perfectly. In an industry-first, the adoption of its fast motorised Multi-Actuator Floating Inner Focus System*** ensures that air and dust isn’t sucked into the lens during zooming or focussing, and downsizing in both size and weight is achieved while improving image quality.
 
The LUMIX G X VARIO lenses are available in the highly stylish and sophisticated colour options of black and silver, a perfect complement to the LUMIX G and LUMIX GF3 cameras. The GF3X kit containing the GF3 body and the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. will be available throughout Europe.

For more information please visit: www.panasonic.co.uk

Sonnet roll out ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt adapter Echo

Sonnet Technologies has announced a new ExpressCard/34 adapter based on Thunderbolt, the new connection standard (with transfer speeds quoted up to 10Gb/s) and adopted by the current range of Apple computers. The new adapter supports 5Gb/s PCIe based SDXC/CF, eSATA even USB3.0 ExpressCard/34 adapters, hence the name Echo. It is expected to ship at the end of October at a suggested retail price of $149.95, however, a Thunderbolt cable is required at extra cost (available at the Apple Store).

Sonnet Adapter Expands the Capabilities of
Thunderbolt™ Technology-Enabled Computers

 

Sonnet's Echo™ ExpressCard®/34 Thunderbolt™ Adapter Enables
ExpressCard/34 Cards to Connect With Computers Via Thunderbolt Ports

 

IRVINE, CA—August 25, 2011—Sonnet Technologies today announced the Echo™ ExpressCard®/34 Thunderbolt™ Adapter, which enables the use of many Sonnet ExpressCard/34 adapters with computers equipped with a Thunderbolt port, including the latest Apple® iMac®, Mac® mini, MacBook® Air, and MacBook Pro models. ExpressCard/34 adapters, originally intended for use with notebook computers, offer users additional connectivity and functionality beyond what’s available through their computers’ stock configuration. This Sonnet adapter supports most PCIe-based Sonnet professional ExpressCard/34 adapters, and specialty adapters from other manufacturers. Sonnet expects other manufacturer’s ExpressCard/34 products to become compatible as their drivers are updated to be Thunderbolt technology-aware.

Developed by Intel® and brought to market with technical collaboration from Apple, Thunderbolt technology supports high-performance data services and high-resolution displays through a single, compact port. The Echo ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt Adapter supports PCI Express® 2.0 technology with 5 Gbps throughput in both directions. The Sonnet adapter connects directly to a computer, or at the end of a Thunderbolt device chain with a Thunderbolt cable (available at the Apple Store).

“The Echo ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt Adapter gives users tremendous flexibility to connect a wide range of peripheral devices through the Thunderbolt port on their computers. In a single Thunderbolt Adapter they gain the potential to add connectivity to their computer, whether increasing the number of ports, incorporating new interfaces, or simply using devices they couldn’t have otherwise been able to connect through a Thunderbolt port” said Robert Farnsworth, CEO of Sonnet Technologies. “Support for hot plugging and swapping of ExpressCard/34 cards gives them the flexibility to change interfaces and devices when needed.”

“Sonnet’s ExpressCard Thunderbolt adapter delivers great performance and flexibility”, says Jason Ziller, Intel’s director of Thunderbolt Marketing, “End-users will now be able to extend the capabilities of their computers like never before.”
The Echo ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt Adapter supports Sonnet ExpressCard adapters ranging from CompactFlash™ and SDXC™ UHS-I Card readers to FireWire® 800, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, and select eSATA adapters. It also supports ExpressCard adapters supplied with specialty devices like Sonnet’s new line of Qio™ professional media readers, and the AJA® io Express.

The Echo ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt Adapter (part number ECHO-E34) is compatible with all Apple computers with Thunderbolt ports running Mac OS® X. It is expected to be available at the end of October at a suggested retail price of $149.95.

More information on the Transposer is available at Sonnet’s Website; www.sonnettech.com

Bowmore, National Geographic announce 2011 International Photography Contest

Bowmore, the distillery producing the first Islay Single Malt whisky, is partnering with National Geographic UK for the second year to launch the 2011 International Photography Contest. The contest invites readers to submit their best photographs of the outdoors for a chance to feature in a future issue of National Geographic magazine and win a truly unforgettable trip for two to the magical island of Islay, the home of Bowmore.

 The contest runs from 1st August – 31st October 2011.  Readers can enter at www.ipcuk2011.nationalgeographic.com

Capture What’s Great About The Great Outdoors With Bowmore National Geographic International Photography Contest

 

This August, Bowmore, the first Islay Single Malt whisky, is delighted to partner with National Geographic UK for the second year to launch the 2011 International Photography Contest. Continuing its passion for photography, Bowmoreis inviting readers to submit their best photographs of the outdoors for a chance to feature in a future issue of National Geographic magazine and win a truly unforgettable trip for two to the magical island of Islay, the home of Bowmore.
 
The contest, which runs from 1st August – 31st October 2011, will ask readers to capture what’s great about the great outdoors. Inspired by the key elements that come together to create the warm and smoky character of Bowmore, the categories for entries are fittingly: People, Places and Nature. Readers can enter at www.ipcuk2011.nationalgeographic.com
 
The competition is easy to enter and is open to everyone, from SLR enthusiasts to those with a camera phone. Readers can submit their favourite shots via the website or upload mobile moments directly from their phones. The judges will be looking for original photos that grab their attention, with interesting light, mood or patterns incorporated into the composition.
 
For those who want to fine tune their outdoor photography skills, Bowmore is collaborating with renowned landscape photographer Colin Prior to host a series of photography workshops with whisky specialists The Whisky Shop across the UK this autumn.
 
Islay, the home of Bowmore, presents many views to a photographer; from the Atlantic waves lapping against the legendary Bowmore No. 1 Vaults where the whiskies spend their long lives, to the island’s peaty land, the same peat that fires the malt-drying kiln. The light and even the landscape seem to change from moment to moment; it is this environment that shapes the character of Bowmore's perfectly balanced Single Malt whisky. With nature at its core, Bowmore invites readers to capture moments at their finest.
 
Good luck, or in Scot's Gaelic - g'un rob h math agad!
 
To learn more about Bowmore, and its ‘A Taste of Islay’ experiences at this year’s best outdoor events including Southampton Boat Show (16-25 September) and Kendal Mountain Festival (17-20 November), visit www.bowmore.com or www.facebook.com/bowmore

Olympus UK confirms Pen Mini price

Olympus UK has today announced the price of the Pen Mini (aka E-PM1) will start at £449.99 (inc. VAT) for a standard kit including an M.Zuiko 14-42mm II R lens.

Press release:

PRESS INFORMATION

SLR quality without the complexity

Meet the gorgeous Olympus PEN Mini

The new PEN Mini is a tiny powerhouse of a system camera with interchangeable lenses. It’s also a beautiful camera that takes even more beautiful images and it couldn’t be any easier to use. The Mini is ideal for anyone who wants a fuss-free camera that fits in at a party as well as it fits in their pocket.

Just like a point-and-shoot, it comes in six colours but the Mini is really an SLR-quality camera hiding behind the simplicity and looks of a genuine compact. It makes high-class photography and movie-making wonderfully easy. Olympus’ Live Guide gives beginners intuitive control of key parameters like aperture and depth of field, without them needing to know how they work.

Six Art Filters add fun creative effects to both Full HD movies or stills and if you don’t know what a setting in the menu is for, a window pops up to tell you.

With the world’s fastest* autofocus systems, great low light performance plus a superb choice of high-grade Olympus lenses and stylish accessories, it’s tough to see just what the PEN Mini can’t do. Also known as the PEN E-PM1, it’s available from early autumn in silver, black, white, silver-rose, purple and brown. Pricing will start at £449.99 for a standard kit including an M.Zuiko 14-42mm II R lens.

 

For further information on the PEN Mini please see attached press release or visit www.olympus.co.uk/pen

Nikon UK offer free 750GB portable hard drive with D300s

Nikon UK has teamed up with Transcend to offer a free ruggedised 750Gb portable hard drive when buying a D300s from UK authorised dealers between 25th August 2011 to 31st October 2011. For more details, including how to claim, please see the press release below.

BUY A NIKON D300S AND GET A FREE 750GB PORTABLE HARD DRIVE
 
 
Nikon UK, August 25th 2011: Nikon UK today announces a new D300S and free portable hard drive promotion. All customers purchasing the D300S, either as a body or part of a kit, are entitled to claim a free Transcend StoreJet 25M 750Gb portable hard drive £99.99.

The offer is available from 25th August 2011 to 31st October 2011 (inclusive), and all claims must be received by 30th November 2011.
 
Niki Needham, Product Manager for professional products at Nikon UK, says: “Not only will customers purchasing the D300S benefit from the camera’s outstanding features, but will also gain the added advantage of this high-speed, shock-proof portable hard drive. For photographers shooting on location or out in the field, a reliable back-up storage device is an essential part of their kit and this quality, portable hard drive offers a practical solution for photographers”.
 
For terms and conditions and information on how to claim your free portable hard drive visit: www.nikon.co.uk/D300Soffer.
 
The D300S is a compact, DX format, professional DSLR which provides photographers with creative flexibility. The D300S incorporates D-movie with in-camera editing functions into a discrete body, which allows you to switch quickly between capturing stills or movie clips. It boasts a highly sensitive 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor and supports a phenomenal 7fps continuous shooting. CF and SD card slots provide shooting flexibility, enabling you to capture stills on one card and movies on another, making it easier to capture more as you go.
 
The Transcend StoreJet 25M 750Gb Portable Hard Drive is a compact, portable and easy to carry storage device which features anti-slip rubber case, a reinforced hard casing, and an internal hard drive suspension damper to protect against  data loss or damage from accidental slips or falls. Powered via the USB port, so no external power or battery is needed; the StoreJet is an essential backup device for any photographer on the go.
 
 
For more information about the D300S please visit www.nikon.co.uk.