GuraGear unwraps Kiboko 22L+

GuraGura has announced the Kiboko 22L+, a smaller version of their hugely popular Kiboko (30L). It can carry a 500mm f/4 (or 200-400mm f/4, as shown below), as well as a couple of DSLR bodies, four other lenses (up to what looks like 24-70mm or equivalents) as well as a 15-inch laptop. The new pack is available now at $379 with free shipping in Continental US (international shipping is also offered).

 

Introducing the Kiboko 22L+
The versatile new camera backpack that you helped design.

The Kiboko 22L+ was designed from the blueprints that customers like you provided over the last couple of years after using the Kiboko 30. Much like its more mature sibling, the Kiboko 22L+ is lightweight and durable, but this bag has a thing or two to teach big brother; like how to carry up to a 15" laptop computer. Sized to fit the most stringent of international carry on requirements without sacrificing carrying capacity; this gem can carry up to a 500mm f4.0 lens in style. The Kiboko 22L+ was made to travel, with a beefed up harness system that features memory-foam shoulder straps, a vented and padded back panel, a removable waistbelt, and shoulder straps that can tuck away when not needed. 

While remaining true to the Kiboko DNA, the 22L+ features a unique butterfly flap access system which allows you to easily get to multiple bodies, lenses, and all your photo accessories without exposing all your prized gear. Kiboko backpacks are made of high-tech materials designed to balance weight and durability.

We use our products every day. We just finished traveling through Rwanda and Kenya working exclusively from the Kiboko 22L+ and are proud to finally be able to share this bag with you.

For more information please see www.guragear.com/

Please help support the DJP by visiting our affiliates; Jessops, Warehouse Express, Adorama Camera and Amazon. Note; sales through these links may benefit this site.

Leica rolls out D-Lux 5 Titanium

Leica announces Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium ‘Special Edition’
 
Versatile digital compact camera in titanium styling with luxury leather case
 
18 October 2011: Leica Camera AG has today announced a special edition of its successful D-Lux 5 digital camera: the Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium. This elegantly-designed compact camera, with its sophisticated, anodised silver-grey finish, comes presented in a special set with a premium grey leather case with shoulder strap, and is sure to be on every discerning photographer’s list of ‘objects of desire’ this Christmas.
 
Equipped with the same high-performance technical specifications as the standard Leica D-Lux 5 model, the Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium includes a fast 5.1 - 19.2mm f/2 - 3.3 ASPH. zoom lens with a focal length range from 24 to 90 mm (35 mm equivalent), suitable for a wide variety of situations including wide-angle landscape and macro photography.
 
The camera’s 1/1.63” CCD image sensor, with a resolution of 10.1 megapixels, is unusually large for a compact model, and is perfectly attuned to the Leica lens together with the electronics and software, producing images with outstandingly natural colour rendition, superb sharpness and high contrast.  The exceptionally fast maximum aperture makes it an ideal camera for ‘available light’ photography.
 
With clearly laid-out menus and straightforward operation of its comprehensive range of features and manual settings, the versatile Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium offers intuitive handling in all photographic situations, from creative image design to spontaneous reportage-style shots, as well as when using the camera’s 1,280 x 720 pixel HD movie recording feature.
 
The camera delivers images in 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 formats as well as 1:1, a particularly interesting format for creative composition. Furthermore, the 3” LCD screen, with its wide viewing angle and 460,000 pixel resolution, enables accurate framing and composition, as well as high quality, detailed image review.
The Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium comes with (as a download) Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 3, professional processing software that allows photographers to develop RAW image files and maintain complete control over the development process applied to their images. The high quality, complementary grey calf leather case is included in the set.

Pricing and availability
 
The Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium special edition set is scheduled to be available in the UK at the end of October 2011 at an SRP of £855 including VAT from authorised Leica dealers including the Leica Store Mayfair: www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk, tel: 020 7629 1351. A full list of authorised UK Leica dealers is available at www.leica-camera.co.uk.
 
Further optional accessories are available, priced as follows (SRP including VAT):
 
Leica D-Lux 5 handgrip (black) - £63
Leica D-Lux 5 EVF1 electronic viewfinder (black) - £275
Leica CF 22 flash unit (black) - £230
 
Leica warranty and added value services
 
The Leica D-Lux 5 Titanium comes with a two-year warranty and a one-year Leica UK ‘Passport’ (complimentary accidental damage cover). UK customers are also welcome to visit the Leica Store and Akademie in Mayfair, London, for a complimentary demonstration or training session on the features of the camera. Technical support by telephone is available via Leica’s London-based Client Care department.

Canon announces 50 million EOS, 70 million EF lens production milestones

Canon has announced sales of 50 million EOS cameras and 70 million EF lenses, with close to half that figure of 30 million lenses in just the past two years. Canon announced sales of 40 million lenses, over a 25 year period, back in April, 2009

Press release:

Canon celebrates 50 million EOS-series SLR camera and 70 million EF lens production milestones

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 18th October 2011 – Canon today announced the achievement of its latest camera-manufacturing milestone, following the production of the company’s 50-millionth EOS-series SLR camera. Underlining the huge popularity of Canon’s leading EOS System, the announcement coincides with another significant manufacturing milestone, with production of Canon’s EF lenses due to pass 70 million units by the end of October 2011.

“These latest manufacturing milestones showcase the unprecedented popularity of the EOS system,” said Rainer Fuehres, Chief of Consumer Imaging, Canon Europe. “Throughout the development of the EOS System we’ve always been focused on providing leading levels of performance for our customers, and the consistently high demand for EOS cameras and EF lenses offers a powerful testament to the quality our products offer to photographers of all levels.”

EOS cameras – leading quality
The EOS series, which stands for “Electro Optical System” and also carries the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn, began production in 1987 at Canon Inc.’s Fukushima Plant with the launch of the iconic EOS 650, an SLR that featured the world’s first electronic mount system. Over the past 25 years, Canon has invested in the development of the EOS System to guarantee it provides the most advanced technologies and exceptional image quality for photographers of all skill levels – from beginners through to professionals.

Just two years after launching the EOS Series in 1989, Canon launched its most professional EOS SLR, the EOS-1, and on the 10th anniversary of the EOS series in 1997, production reached 10 million units. Production propelled to 20 million units in 2003, largely due to the release of the lightweight and compact EOS 500 in 1993 and EOS D30 in 2000, which spearheaded the rapid growth of digital SLR cameras across the globe.

Over the past 25 years, Canon’s technological advancements has seen the company launch the industry leading high-performance DIGIC digital image processor, as well as proprietary CMOS sensors that deliver unrivaled image quality. Developments such as these saw Canon reach the 30 million-unit landmark during the series’ 20-year anniversary in December 2007, and the 40 million mark shortly after, in May 2010. The current 50 million-unit production milestone was achieved in September 2011, and has been reached after a period of just one year and four months – by some distance the fastest-ever production period in the history of the EOS range.

Today, Canon marks this historic production landmark with the launch of the Canon EOS-1D X – a revolutionary, next-generation professional DSLR offering an unparalleled combination of speed, resolution and image quality ideal for all types of professional photographers.

EF lenses – precision technology, creative flexibility
Production of Canon’s prestigious interchangeable EF lens series for EOS SLR cameras commenced in 1987 at the company’s Utsunomiya Plant, alongside the development of the first EOS Series SLR camera.  Designed to provide EOS SLR photographers with unrivaled flexibility in all shooting scenarios, the diverse EF lens range now includes over 60 different lenses, which are produced in a total of four production facilities to meet the huge demand.

Since production began in 1987, the EF lens range has expanded to include a number of innovative technologies, including the development of the world’s first Ultrasonic Motor-powered lens (USM) (among interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras) and Image Stabilizer (IS) technology. Innovations such as these provided new and advanced levels of performance, and prompted the rapid growth of EF lenses that saw production pass 10 million units in 1995, and subsequently reach 20 million in 2001.

Production then reached 30 million units in 2006 – quickly followed just two years later by the 40-million-unit mark in April 2008. Owing to the surging popularity of the EOS series, production was increased and the 50 million-unit landmark was achieved in December 2009, before Canon reached the 60 million-unit mark in January of this year.  By October 2011 Canon will pass its next 10 million-unit cycle in just nine months to achieve the 70 million-unit milestone, spurred by cutting edge products such as the new EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM – the world’s first fisheye zoom lens (among interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras) that captures circular and rectangular images with a 180° view.

In line with its position at the forefront of the imaging industry, Canon will continue to refine its various imaging technologies in the years to come. By using optical technologies as a core, Canon strives to produce exceptional cameras and lenses that cater for the needs of photographers, from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals, enabling users of all levels to experience and enjoy the power of image.

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Canon rolls out new cinema EF lens range
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Canon unwraps EOS 1Dx

UPDATE 11/1/11.

Although billed as the replacement for the EOS-1D Mk IV and EOS-1Ds Mk III, this is obviously the replacement for the former rather than the latter. Think of it as the EOS-1D Mk V. I'll admit I'm surprised after I wrote this piece, but it seems Canon has ended the EOS1Ds line in favour of the EOS 5D Mk II and its successors or, perhaps, we'll see an new camera altogether. Nothing is carved in stone, manufacturers constantly evaluate product ranges based on sales, rather than technical specifications or capabilities.

This is clearly following Nikon and their D3s camera in particular - and is something of u-turn for Canon. I'm really not sure why Canon is following Nikon here, the APS-H format was well liked, but ask any professional sports shooter and they'll say it's all really down to pixel density. Although the pixel count is up on this camera, the pixel density is lower than the current EOS 1D MkIV.

Canon EOS-1D X – key features

    •    18.1 MP full frame CMOS sensor
    •    Up to 12fps and 14fps shooting
    •    100-51200 ISO, up to H:204800
    •    61 point AF system
    •    100,000 pixel RGB AE metering with DIGIC 4
    •    Full HD 1080p EOS movie
    •    Dual “DIGIC 5+” processors
    •    Clear View II 8.11 cm (3.2”) 1040K-dot LCD
    •    Ethernet port

Jessops in the UK are accepting pre-orders at £5,299.95 inc VAT, but the camera isn't expected to be available till the end of March.

Canon Press release:

EMBARGO: 18th October 2011, 06:00 (BST)

Performance redefined – Canon unlocks new possibilities for professional photographers with the EOS-1D X

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 18th October 2011 – Canon today announces the arrival of the EOS-1D X – its next generation professional Digital SLR (DSLR). Offering an unparalleled combination of speed, resolution and image quality, the EOS-1D X is the ultimate camera for capturing stunning images and Full HD movies. Whether shooting in the studio, the sports field, or anywhere in between, this model is ideal for virtually any professional photographer. The new model launches as the flagship in Canon’s DSLR line up – marking the 10th generation of Canon’s professional system with the most advanced EOS model ever produced.

The culmination of 40 years’ experience in developing professional cameras, the EOS-1D X represents a new era for the EOS system and supersedes both the
EOS-1D Mark IV and the EOS-1Ds Mark III. Combining a new 18.1MP full-frame sensor, a redesigned autofocus (AF) system and powerful new metering technology with new dual “DIGIC 5+” processors, this camera has been designed to offer unparalleled usability and image quality – ensuring any scene is captured with greater accuracy and speed than ever before.

“The EOS-1D X is the ultimate camera for all types of photographer” said Kieran Magee, Professional Marketing Director, Canon Europe. “Professionals often shoot in fast-paced, high pressure situations, and the EOS-1D X provides the features and performance they need. We’ve carefully listened to the needs of professionals and created a versatile, powerful camera that will meet the requirements of more photographers than ever before.”

Setting new standards
The EOS-1D X offers a comprehensively-upgraded specification that’s packed with new technologies. A newly-developed full-frame 18.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor offers exceptional flexibility, allowing photographers to shoot a wider range of scenes and subjects in high resolution. Redesigned architecture offers an incredible ISO range of 100-51200, expandable up to 204800, while dual “DIGIC 5+” processors offer a 2-stop improvement in noise performance – making it easier to capture outstanding quality, low noise images, even in extreme low-light conditions.

The new 61-point wide-area autofocus system offers even greater sensitivity, delivering increased precision and speed. With 41 cross-type points, including five dual cross-type points, the camera’s AF system offers unsurpassed accuracy across the frame, while new AF pre-sets are specifically designed for shooting common challenging subjects – providing exceptional reliability in notoriously difficult shooting situations.

The EOS-1D X also features a newly-designed RGB metering system, providing incredible levels of accuracy. A 100,000 pixel RGB metering sensor is linked to the AF system and powered by its own dedicated DIGIC 4 processor, detecting faces and colour to ensure correct exposure levels and improved AF tracking, even when shooting the most challenging of scenes.

 

Extreme power
Powered by next-generation processing technology, the EOS-1D X is the first-ever camera to feature dual “DIGIC 5+” processors. Offering performance up to three times faster than standard DIGIC 5, each processor is designed to manage huge levels of image data while simultaneously reducing image noise. In combination with the sensor’s 16-channel read-out, the dual processors enable full-resolution continuous shooting up to 12fps with 14-bit A/D conversion and full camera operation – the fastest of any DSLR currently available (according to Canon research, correct as of September 2011).  A super high-speed mode extends the shooting speed to 14fps (JPEG format only), while a new shutter and mirror mechanism reduces shutter lag and mirror bounce, delivering consistently high performance when shooting at high speed.

The film-maker’s DSLR
The EOS-1D X is ideal for all professionals who want to exploit the EOS system’s extensive selection of lenses and accessories – whether shooting stills or HD movies. Users can record Full HD (1920x1080p) movies from the full-frame sensor with a full range of manual settings to control exposure, focus and frame rate (1920 x 1080: 30 (29.97), 25, 24 (23.976) frames per second, 1280 x 720: 60 (59.94), 50 fps, 640 x 480: 30 (29.97), 25 fps), while sound levels can also be displayed and adjusted on the LCD screen, ensuring complete control over every aspect of a shoot.

Thanks to the power provided by the dual “DIGIC 5+” processors moiré artefacts are also reduced, while EOS Movie now offers longer recording options, automatically creating a new file once the 4GB file limit has been reached. A new intra frame video codec also maintains the highest possible video quality, limiting compression of image data so users retain increased levels of information for post-production editing.

 

Designed for professionals
The EOS-1D X offers a carefully revised version of the classic EOS-1 series design, with larger, more tactile buttons that make it easier for users to control settings – even in extreme conditions where gloves are required. Two multi-controllers and a touch-sensitive control wheel, for use in movie mode, make it easier to change settings, while a range of customisable function buttons allow users to set-up the camera to suit their individual needs by allowing shortcuts to the features and pre-sets they use most.

A 100% viewfinder makes framing each scene easy, while intelligent viewfinder functionality instantly adds a grid display when required. A large, 8.11cm (3.2”) Clear View II LCD screen offers a 1040K-dot resolution, and the anti-reflective structure prevents light reflections or glare when viewing images in bright conditions. A hardened glass cover also provides resistance to knocks and scratches commonly picked up while shooting on the move.

The menu system also features a comprehensively redesigned user interface, incorporating Help functions to make camera operation faster, clearer and easier. Additionally, a new dedicated AF tab allows photographers to access and customise AF pre-sets for common shooting situations or subjects, allowing users to concentrate on capturing the moment without the need to constantly adjust camera settings.

Built to last
The EOS-1D X offers a highly durable body constructed from high-grade magnesium alloy that provides protection against both the elements and the knocks of everyday use. The latest implementation of Canon’s EOS Integrated Cleaning System also uses technology adopted from Canon lenses, using wave-based vibrations similar to that of Ultrasonic Motors to shake dust and dirt from the sensor even more effectively.

An enhanced shutter mechanism also provides extended durability, providing 400K shutter cycles so photographers can rely on their camera to meet the challenge of repeated, demanding shoots. The EOS-1D X also features Canon’s protective sealing around the controls and cover seams, making the camera dust and water-resistant when combined with Canon’s range of weather-resistant EF lenses – perfect for shooting in a range of weather conditions.

Enhanced connectivity also ensures photographers can send images to picture desks or studios quickly and securely. An integrated gigabit ethernet port provides a fast, reliable way to transfer images from on-location events or in a studio, without the need for an adaptor.

 

The EOS System – unrestricted creativity
As part of the award-winning EOS System, the EOS-1D X is compatible with the world’s largest selection of lenses, Speedlite EX flash units and an extensive range of accessories. The ideal upgrade for existing EOS-1D Mark IV and EOS-1Ds Mark III users, it’s also compatible with numerous EOS accessories, allowing the new body to seamlessly join any existing EOS-1 series kitbag.

In addition, launching alongside the EOS-1D X is the new WFT-E6 – a new, compact WiFi transmitter designed for transferring images when a wired connection isn’t available. Supporting the 802.11n WiFi standard and offering Bluetooth support for connectivity to external GPS devices, the WFT-E6 offers secure transfer of images and video to an FTP server, or the ability to display content on a compatible screen over a DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) connection.

The EOS-1D X will also be compatible with a new GPS receiver – the GP-E1. Enabling users to add location information to EXIF data and geographically track the progress of travelling shoot, the GP-E1 is particularly useful for wildlife or location-based photographers who may need to record the location of a scene for future reference.

Canon EOS-1D X – key features
    •    18.1 MP full frame CMOS sensor
    •    Up to 12fps and 14fps shooting
    •    100-51200 ISO, up to H:204800
    •    61 point AF system
    •    100,000 pixel RGB AE metering with DIGIC 4
    •    Full HD 1080p EOS movie
    •    Dual “DIGIC 5+” processors
    •    Clear View II 8.11 cm (3.2”) 1040K-dot LCD
    •    Ethernet port

Sales

Pre-order the Canon EOS 1DX from Jessops here at £5,299.95 (inc VAT)

Contact

www.canon.com, www.canon.co.uk, CPN Europe.

Related Posts

Canon Japan openly discuss EOS-1D X design choices

Nikon announces production of 65 millionth Nikkor lens

Nikon has announced production of Nikkor lenses has reached sixty-five million at the beginning of the month (October). In March 2011, production reached sixty million the company added in a press release today, meaning Nikon has sold more than five million lenses in just six months. Two new lenses for their FX and DX format DSLRSs have been released this year, the FX (full-frame) AF-S 50mm f/1.8 G and the AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G. In September Nikon announced the CX format Nikon 1 using Nikkor branded lenses with a new lens mount, but it's not the first new mount from the camera maker as some mistakenly reported. Based loosely on the Nikon F4, the Nikon QV-1000c from the late 80's was an analog electronic stills camera using Nikkor branded lenses but adopted a smaller three-claw bayonet to the similar F mount.

New pro Canon DSLR to be launched Tuesday?

I don't usually report on rumors but according to the Canonrumours site*, Canon is to release a new pro-level DSLR Tuesday, October 18, and I'm not that comfortable with some of the (obviously) unverified specifications. The rumor is that the EOS APS-H 1D and full-frame (35mm) EOS 1Ds line are to be amalgamated, with the new camera featuring a full frame 18-megapixel full-frame sensor, continuous shooting at 12fps and boast a 61-point AF system.

Full-frame (35mm) cameras are now firmly seen as pro-territory, courtesy of the Nikon D3s (and Canon's own 1Ds and 5D models) and the only real advantage to retaining the APS-H format is the framing rate. Ask any press photographer or photojournalist which they would rather have for a given fps, more megapixels on a full-frame camera or slightly less on APS-H, and, it would be the former every time. It gives them more options. You can simply crop in to achieve the same effect while also allowing the lens' original field of view.

However, Canon is very conservative when it comes to the EOS 1D models, it's not a product segment to take risks with. I don't need to tell anyone that the full-frame EOS 1Ds Mk III is overdue for replacement. And, if there's a camera that should be updated it's this model. In this instance, though, the rumored specification doesn't fit as an appropriate upgrade for either EOS 1D or the 1Ds.

If it is accurate, that means Canon are going to have to persuade current 1Ds Mk III owners to drop from 21-megapixels to 18-megapixels. And, that's just not going to happen. Without doubt certain features will appeal, but the rumored 12fps of the new model is not going to be of interest to the typical 1Ds demographic.

While the 5D Mk II damaged sales of the 1Ds, Canon will effectively be asking 1Ds shooters to switch to that model. It's a great camera, but it's not a 1Ds. Few would argue that it needs upgrading in terms in AF and build and I've not even mentioned video. Canon are going to want to expand that on the 5D MK III rather than make that model appeal to studio users and the features don't complement each other.

So what's going to be announced on Tuesday? Well let's say the amalgamation rumor is true, in which case the new camera will have to appeal to both types of user. As I've already mentioned, the rumored spec would be at odds with users expectations at this level. So could the specification be inaccurate or only part of the full spec?

I think that maybe Canon is about to launch a camera with a full-frame 36-megapixel resolution sensor shooting at 5fps with an option, perhaps, to drop to 18-megapixel resolution and 10/12fps continuous shooting rates. That would be something, but I'm only guessing. And I've not mentioned what Nikon is rumored to be launching later in the month. But it would fit, we'll just have to wait and see.

*Source.

UPDATE 18 October. Canon has announced the EOS-1Dx.

Nikon APS-C DSLR plant closed

Nikon has reported that it has suspended operations at the company's sole consumer DSLR and lens plant, situated in Thailand, due to flooding. Nikon makes all their APS-C (DX) format DSLRs in Thailand from the D3100 through to the D7000 and D300s (the new Nikon 1 series are made in China). Supplies are likely to be affected (like other Japanese companies Nikon works to the 'just-in-time' manufacturing practice), helping keep inventory low across a wide-product range.

Nikon's pro DSLR factory in Japan (Sendai) was closed earlier in the year after the triple tragedy of March. That factory made the D3s/D3x and D700 (FX) models. Although production from Sendai will likely have been moved to other facilities in Japan, it looks like the availability of all FX/DX DSLR models will be restricted in the run-up to Christmas.

Notice on the damage from the flood in Thailand

October 11, 2011

Nikon (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a consolidated subsidiary of Nikon Corporation in the Rojana Industrial Park in Ayutthaya Province located in Central Thailand, is submerged by the flood caused by torrential rainfall since last July.
The latest situations at Nikon (Thailand) Co., Ltd. are as follows:

    1.    Damages The 1st floor of all buildings at the premises are presently submerged. Details of the damages are now under investigation. As for the employees, the human damage has not been reported so far. The factory is suspending its operation since October 6.

    2.    Estimated impact to our business performance We are now doing our utmost to estimate the impact of the flood to our group companies and business performance. We assure you to immediately advise the findings once it is judged there will be an important change in our forecast.

    3.    Recovery We are continuing to investigate details of the damage, but are unable to predict how soon operation will be resumed. We will set up our recovery support system and endeavor to restart its operation as early as possible. We are now requesting drainage of the industrial park to the Thai government, together with the Rojana Industrial Park authority, other companies in the Park and Japan External Trade Organization.

Arca Swiss announce L-bracket, finder shoe for Sony NEX

Arca Swiss has announced a new L-bracket for the NEX 3 and 5 models as is fully compatible with the monoball®Fix and monoball®Classic quick release systems. The bracket comes complete with a finder shoe and is priced at 159 Euros ($217 / £139), but it's not clear when it will be available.

 

PRESS RELEASE

Arca-Swiss presents the ‘Nex Kit’ for Nex 3 and Nex 5 Sony cameras.
The kit consists of an L-bracket and a viewfinder shoe for an optical finder.

Previously Arca-Swiss has released the Mini L-bracket for compact cameras such as the Olympus E-PL1, E-PL2, Panasonic Lumix GF and LX3, Samsung NX-100, Canon G10, The new smallest DSLR offerings from Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax and Sony.

Today we present a new mini L-bracket. Light and small, it is specifically designed to mate specifically with the Nex 3 and Nex 5 cameras from Sony.

The Nex L-bracket is fully adaptable with our monoball®Fix and monoball®Classic quick release systems. It takes into account the compact design of the Sony Nex cameras allowing a fast change from landscape to portrait format and vise-versa. Secure handling of the cameras when hand holding is improved due to the L-bracket as well.

The design further allows free access to cable ports allowing unhindered connection to the computer without having to remove or shift the bracket.

The kit includes a shoe allowing easy attachment of an optical finder. An optical finder is a great accessory allowing the photographer to see better, yielding faster, more accurate composing and shooting in low light conditions.
ARCA-SWISS is committed to the constant evolution and innovation of its products!
price : 159 € (Taxe free)

Nikon to introduce an AF 800mm f/5.6 telephoto with VR?

According to this patent diagram* shown above, Nikon could be readying an autofocus 800mm f/5.6, presumably to be called the AF-S Nikkor 800mm f/5.6G ED VR. It comprises of no less than 16 elements in 14 groups, the last element (on the extreme right) being a drop in filter and part of the optical construction. This design doesn't show a meniscus front filter, but that could be added easily enough.

The construction shows internal focusing (IF) at G2 and VR compensating optics at G3, the latter accounting for the high number of elements in telephotos these days. It's also safe to assume that this lens will also feature a SWM and Nano Crystal coat. If we're to guess, the lens was designed with the intention of being produced in time for the 2012 Olympics, though after the events of March there might only be a handful ready by then.

The Olympics would be too good an opportunity to miss using this with the new mirrorless V1. Used together ( it would also need the announced FT1 F-mount adaptor) with the camera's 2.7x crop factor the lens would be the equivalent to a 2160mm (in AoV), and would be able to shoot at 10fps complete with AF (central AF area only). Just imagine the possibilities (and where you read it first). For stationary subjects the V1 will shoot at 60fps (it loses AF) but will only capture 30 frames (that's just half a second of shooting) before the buffer is full. Oh well.

Nikon's last 800mm f/5.6 was a manual focus AI-S lens, with 8 elements in 6 groups. The Nikkor 800mm f/5.6 IFED, shown below weighed 5450g and was produced in batches between 1986 and as late as 2005, though I can't actually believe that they made any after 2000. The AI-S 200mm f/2 IFED was shown in brochures and on Nikon websites for years after it had been removed from production.

Rival Canon pioneered the 800mm f/5.6 producing an L-series FD breachlock lens for the F1 system back in the late 70's. That particular lens was designed for tripod use only, as was the later Nikon version. However the new EF 800mm f/5.6 L for the EOS 1 series was designed to be handheld, and is around the same size and weight of the current EF 600mm f/4L (though the new version is slightly lighter and smaller still).

*Source: Egami.

Nikon's first and only manual focus AIS 800mm f/5.6 IFED model (above).

Optical construction of the rival EF 800mm f/5.6L, neatly showing the IS optics and focusing group.

Steve Jobs, 1955-2011

If you haven't heard already Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc passed away today. I recommend watching this: 'How to Live before you die', The 2005 Stanford Commencement Address.

Fuji X10 available in November

Fuji's latest addition to the range, the recently announced X10 high-end compact is expected to be available now in early November, slightly later than expected according to a spokesperson for Fuji. Indeed, Amazon UK are quoting 11 November and have revised the (pre-order) price from the original retail of £549 to £499.99 (both including VAT).

Jessops pre-order at £529 (with interest free credit).

Warehouseexpress pre-order also at £529.

Adorama in the US are taking pre-orders here at $599.95 (equivalent to £450 inc VAT).

UPDATE (October 30); most of the above stores are showing stock.

Are Smartphones Changing Digital Photography?

Our sister site, Theappwhisperer.com has written an intriguing article on DPreview.com about this very subject - don't miss it - clear here to read it in full.

B&H special on Adobe Lightroom 3

B&H Photo in New York has a special offer of 50-percent off the regular price of $299.99, valid for the next 24 hours. Please click here to buy (it won't cost you anything extra).

Canon looks for best beginner in Europe

Canon announced yesterday the EOS Adventure competition. Along with a chance to win a spectacular adventure in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve with wildlife photography experts, Jonathan and Angela Scott, ‘The Big Cat People’, participants can learn tips and tricks from a number of Canon professionals.

For more information please read the press release below.

Canon searches for best beginner photographer in Europe

Once in a lifetime photography adventure prize on offer Canon links up with photography experts to create specialist photography tutorials

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland – Budding photographers from across Europe could win a once in a lifetime photography adventure at the same time as learning more about DSLR photography this Autumn, thanks to the photography experts at Canon.

The Canon EOS Adventure is a pan-European campaign created to both educate and inspire DSLR beginners to take their photography to the next level.  Keen snappers will be able to visit the EOS Adventure page on Yahoo! - Essentials of Photography - to find photography tips and tricks that will improve their photography skills.  These exclusive tutorial videos and advice put together by Canon’s professional experts include brand photographer Adam Swords, wildlife photographer Jamie Crawford, creator of popular German photo magazine KWERFELDEIN Martin Gommel and botanical photographer Rachel Warne.

Amateur photographers will be able to use the content to learn about techniques that will really improve their shooting quickly and easily.  These include basics such as aperture and depth of field, lighting and exposure. The site also gives people the opportunity to put what they’ve learnt to the test and showcase their own best results to the public via galleries on Yahoo! and Flickr.

The very best examples will be entered into a competition to win a once in a lifetime prize – the ultimate EOS Adventure.  One lucky winner will be whisked off to a Kenya, where they’ll enjoy an exclusive photography adventure with Canon’s wildlife photography experts, Jonathan and Angela Scott, ‘The Big Cat People’. The winner will  have the chance to put their new photography skills to the test and capture the sights of their safari adventure whilst touring around Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve from their base in the Governor’s Camp.

All entries will be assessed by the Canon judging panel featuring professional photographers, with a selection of smaller prizes also on offer in each category.

The Canon EOS Adventure competition is open for entries from Monday 26th September 2011 until Sunday 20th November 2011.

Visit http://www.uk.news.yahoonet/essentials-of-photography or www.canon.co.uk/eosadventure for more information.

Nik Software rolls out Color Efex 4

Announced a few days ago on the 7th September, Nik Software has today launched Color Efex Pro 4, the latest version of the popular filter effects plug-in for Photoshop, Lightroom and Aperture. The full version with 55 filters is available now for 199.95 Euros, or Select version with 26 filters is available for 99.95 Euros.

The upgrade from version 2.0 or 3.0 costs 99.95 Euros (unless you bought v3.0 after the 7th August then it's free to upgrade).

Sample Images

Bleach Bypass, copyright Martin Grahame-Dunn.

More information can be found here. You can download the demo here, or buy from here.

US readers preferring to buy from a reseller can buy from our affiliate retailer Adorama here.

Hasselblad Masters 2012 finalists' images showcased

Press release:

Hundreds of photographers, assistants, students and imaging creatives descended on Hasselblad’s London photo-studio last week as the prestigious international Hasselblad Masters Finalists Program 2012 was launched.

A selection of shortlisted images adorned the studio walls as Hasselblad Masters from previous years awards mingled with some of the 2012 competition finalists during ten hours of Open Day events - including ‘how to’ studio shoots with live models and an exclusive social evening where aspirational photographers joined internationally renowned experts to discuss their ambitions and the future of the industry.

Chris Russell-Fish, Hasselblad UK MD and global sales and marketing director said: “The Masters is a celebrated and highly influential photographic competition. It can change lives and careers. Claudio Napolitano, who became a Hasselblad Master in the portrait category two years ago, described his win as a ‘life changing moment – like winning a Nobel Prize’. There is no doubt that to win at this level means you have proved yourself to be a very talented, very special photographer.”

He added: “The 2012 finalists’ event was launched here in London but the international tour of finalists’ images will also visit Los Angeles, New York and Berlin this autumn.”

Sports and portraits specialist Dirk Rees, who won his Masters Award in 2009, is now also a finalist in the latest competition program.

“The fortune cookies have been with me, I guess” he said. “I just think it is very healthy to enter prestigious awards like this. Hasselblad is a huge brand name and has always had massive credibility with its groundbreaking high-quality products.”

“This awards program is right up there with the very best in the world. And of course it’s not just about winning over twenty one judges on a panel – the public gets to vote too.”

He added: “When it comes to photography I believe a single image can represent everything. It is the most powerful and most memorable rendering of movement precisely stopped in its time.”

Paul Waterworth, Hasselblad’s global photographer relations manager commented: “For these people photography is far more than a job, it is a lifestyle. Our competition, which continues to grow with entries coming in from across the globe, now runs biennially to coincide with photokina, the world’s largest imaging trade fair – at which winners’ photographs will be showcased.”

This year’s 110 finalists across eleven categories were selected from over 2,500 applications. Entries from all finalists are online and the public is encouraged to vote for their favourite images.

Voting is open until (and including) the last day of October 2011 at www.hasselblad.com/masters/masters-finalists.aspx.

Winners, whose images will be published in the next Hasselblad Masters Book, will be announced in January 2012.

Related posts

Hasselblad H4D-60 review
Hasselblad Europe offer half-price lens deal
Hasselblad announces H4x

Lowepro announce DSLR Video Fastpack AW Series

Lowepro has introduced a new series of backpacks aimed at multimedia journalists. As well as space for a laptop and camera equipment, the new Video Fastpack AW series has a second, dedicated compartment for audio equipment including headphones, field recorder and microphone. Available in three sizes, the Fastpack series are available now starting at $64.95, increasing to $124.95.

Buy from Adorama here (with free shipping). Adorama has a special on the smaller 150 AW version here at just $49.95, with free shipping.

Press release:

New from Lowepro – DSLR Video Fastpack AW Series          October 2011

A flexible, purpose-built backpack designed to help multimedia photographers protect and carry a wide range of camera, video and laptop equipment as they capture rich content.

Lowepro, the leading brand of protective gear for photography equipment and portable electronic devices, expands its top-selling and award-winning Fastpack series with the release of the DSLR Video Fastpack AW series. This flexible, dual-compartment backpack is expressly designed for fast-moving multimedia photographers who rely on a diverse set-up of equipment to help them capture and deliver rich content.

Tim Sadler, Category Manager for Lowepro said “We chose one of our most popular designs as the inspiration for the new DSLR Video Fastpack AW series. It’s built to meet the needs of today’s multimedia photographers who shoot stills and video, plus capture sound for their clients.”

The series consists of three models that fit a wide-ranging capacity of pro-sized gear, plus a laptop and accessories. Each delivers an identical and full set of premium features and provides flexible ways to customize equipment.

The lower compartment of each pack protects a pro-sized DSLR or HD video-enabled DSLR within padded and adjustable compartments. A fast-access, side-entry pocket allows the photographers to quickly get to his or her gear by rotating the pack to the front and unzipping the camera compartment.

Pro shooters and enthusiasts who carry sound accessories will appreciate the upper compartment with its storage space for headphones, a microphone, transmitter/receiver set  and other audio gear. This compartment comes outfitted with Lowepro’s removable Custom Audio Utility Pouch to aid in the neat and organized management of smaller audio accessories and cables.

A separate and padded laptop compartment keeps the multimedia photographer’s workstation within easy reach—ideal for uploading stills, video or when posting a new blog entry and keeping in touch with colleagues and clients while on a shoot or traveling to one.

Additional pro-focused features include: a Hideaway Tripod Mount™ to help secure a tripod or DSLR video rig to the side via a foldout holder and strap; hidden ID pocket for quick access to ID or business cards; patented, built-in All Weather AW Cover™ to help protect gear from the elements; stretch-mesh side pocket; grab handle; stow-away waist-belt; and durable, water-resistant outer materials.

The series is available in three sizes in black: DSLR Video Fastpack 350 AW, DSLR Video Fastpack 250 AW and DSLR Video Fastpack 150 AW. For more information on this series and other products, please contact DayMen or visit www.lowepro.com

1.      Design Highlights
• Adventure-pack construction with ultra-lightweight, resilient and high-performance technical fabrics for durability.
• Patent-pending Ultra-Cinch Camera Chamber™ protects gear in a padded and secure compartment and helps prevent bouncing during extreme activity.
• Side-access pocket allows user to quickly rotate pack to front, unzip and un-cinch to access camera.
• Dedicated hydration pocket on 200 AW model provides storage for and easy access to liquid when user is on the move (hydration reservoir not included).
• Patented, built-in All Weather AW Cover™ protects camera gear and personal items from the elements.
 
2.      Dimensions and Fit
DSLR Video Fastpack 150 AW
Interior Camera Compartment: 20.5 x 12.5 x 23 cm
FITS: Pro DSLR (without grip) with attached lens (up to 17-55mm f/2.8; 1 lens; 1 flash or LED light; headphones; microphone; audio transmitter/receiver set; voice recorder; sound mixer; up to a 13” laptop; tripod or DSLR video rig.
DSLR Video Fastpack 250 AW
Interior Camera Compartment: 26 x 14 x 24.5 cm
FITS: Pro DSLR (without grip) with attached lens (up to 24-70mm f/2.8); 2 lenses; pro flash or LED light; headphones; microphone; audio transmitter/receiver set; voice recorder; sound mixer; up to a 15” laptop; tripod or DSLR video rig.
DSLR Video Fastpack 350 AW
Interior Camera Compartment: 26 x 17 x 24.5 cm
FITS: Pro DSLR with attached lens (up to 70-200mm f/2.8); 2 lenses; pro flash or LED light; headphones; microphone; audio transmitter/receiver set; voice recorder; sound mixer; up to a 17” laptop; tripod or DSLR
video rig.
 

LensCoat for $120k Canon lens

I always like to see how products are made, it helps me appreciate their value. Take a look at this video shot for LensCoat as they prepare a cover for one of the most esoteric of lenses, the Canon 1200mm f/5.6. The lens is no longer made, but I'm sure if you want to order one, Canon may reconsider. Alternatively, B&H will sell you one, pre-owned for $120K (now sold).

The making of a LensCoat for the Canon Ef 1200mm f5.6 L USM Lens from LensCoat on Vimeo.

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