Nikon Manual Viewer app available to download

Not news exactly, but no less interesting for that, Nikon Corporation has an app for iOS devices allowing users to download Nikon digital camera manuals for viewing offline. Most photographers I know download manuals in pdf and import them via iTunes or Dropbox, but hopefully Nikon will address the relative shortage of camera manuals available and eventually include those for accessories (such as the MC-36) and lenses (especially PC-E, teleconverters, and extension tubes - even though the latter haven't been updated since the 80s).

In the meantime, you can download the app from here.

Think Tank Photo announces four accessory wallets

Think Tank Photo are pre-announcing four new photo accessory wallets for DSLR batteries, SD cards, and gels (correction filters). The four wallets will be available in May, with prices starting from $9.50 up to $16.60.

Think Tank Photo to Release DSLR Battery Holders

Santa Rosa, Calif. – The number one sin in photography is running out of power. To help prevent that from happening, in May, Think Tank Photo will release the DSLR Battery Holder 2 and the DSLR Battery Holder 4. These slim, collapsible, compact designs secure two or four standard size camera batteries.
Features include:
•    Compact carrier for two or four standard DSLR batteries.
•    Compress flat when not in use, easily stored.
•    Hook and loop closure with top fold design.

 

Specifications

DSLR Battery Holder 2
External Dimensions: 3.9” W x 3” H x 0.4” D (10 x 7.5 x 1 cm)
Weight: 0.02lbs (0.01kg)

For more information, please follow the link here.

DSLR Battery Holder 4
External Dimensions: 7.1” W x 3” H x 0.4” D (18 x 7.5 x 1 cm)
Weight: 0.04lbs (0.02kg)

For more information, please follow the link here.

Think Tank Photo to Release SD Pixel Pocket Rocket

Santa Rosa, Calif. – In May, with the release of Think Tank Photo’s SD Pixel Pocket Rocket, photographers will be able to keep their most important photography storage device, their SD cards, secure and organized. The SD Pixel Pocket Rocket keeps those very small but invaluable SD cards safely stored in one place. No more lost SD cards, and no more found SD cards in the bottom of the washing machine.
Additionally, it can be tethered to bags, clothing, briefcases, and backpacks for additional security.

Features include:
•    Compact carrier for nine SD cards.
•    Clear pockets make identification easy.
•    Folds flat when not in use, easily stored.
•    Business card slot.
•    Hook and loop closure with fold-up design.
•    Tether with clips to for security attachment.

Specifications
External Dimensions: 4.5” L x 2.5” W x .5” H (11.5 x 6.5 x 1.5 cm)
Weight: 0.1lbs (0.04kg)

For more information, please follow the link here.

Think Tank Photo to Release Strobe Gel Wallets

Santa Rosa, Calif. – For all the Strobists out there, Think Tank Photo announces that in May it will release the Strobe Gel Wallet. This wallet stores photography gels in a neat and organized manner and keeps them protected.
The wallet minimizes clutter by folding up and stashing away in photographer bags, cases, or backpacks. The five pockets have a large capacity. This enhances the ability to store and locate gels easily instead of having them mound into one big stack.
Features include:
•    Compact five-pocket carrier for Rosco Strobist™ filters.
•    Clear pockets for gels make identification easy.
•    Folds flat when not in use.
•    Business card slot.
•    Can be tethered to any Think Tank product, clothing, or belt.
•    Hook and loop closure with fold-up design.
•    Includes tether with clips for security attachment.

Specifications
External Dimensions: 4.5” L x 2.5” W x .5” H (11.5 x 6.5 x 1.5 cm)
Weight: 0.1lbs (0.04kg)

For more information, please follow the link here.

Canon announces EOS 60Da DSLR for astrophotography

Canon has announced a new DSLR aimed at astrophotography. The new EOS 60Da features a new modified IR blocking filter that offers three times more Há light through to the sensor than the standard EOS 60D, on which it's based. The EOS 60Da is available from June 2012, priced at $1,499 / £1,174.99 / EUR 1,399.00 RRP incl. VAT.

The Canon EOS 60Da is avialble to pre-order from Adorama at $1,499.

Press Release

Looking at the stars – Canon unveils the EOS 60Da

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 3rd April 2012 – Canon today expands the EOS series with the launch of the EOS 60Da – a high resolution Digital SLR (DSLR) designed for astrophotography. Based on the specifications of the EOS 60D and succeeding the EOS 20Da, the EOS 60Da is designed to capture rich red colours produced by emission nebulae, with a modified low pass filter that makes it more sensitive to hydrogen-alpha (Há) wavelengths of light.

The EOS 60Da is ideal for shooting astronomical phenomena such as diffuse nebulae – a favourite among astrophotographers due to the distinct red colour caused by the ionisation of hydrogen. In a standard DSLR, an infrared (IR) filter limits the amount of Há light that passes through to the camera sensor, reducing the transmission of red signals to prevent unwanted colour artefacts in the final image. However the EOS 60Da features a new modified filter that offers three times more transparency for Há light than the EOS 60D, combined with an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processing and a high ISO range to capture crisp, clear images of red-coloured emission nebulae.

High resolution, high sensitivity and low noise
The EOS 60Da provides astrophotographers with high performance and creative flexibility. Its 18 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor is ideal for capturing rich detail in star clusters, and advanced performance at high ISO speeds up to ISO 6,400 (expandable to ISO 12,800) ensures images are low in noise, reducing the need for longer exposures and star tracker mounts. Working alongside powerful 14-bit DIGIC 4 processing, the sensor also provides excellent signal-to-noise ratio in final output data, producing pictures that are rich in natural colour with smooth tonal gradations – ideal for capturing the subtle colour transitions of interstellar gas clouds, for example.

Easy control
Utilising the advanced ergonomics of the EOS 60D, the EOS 60Da has been designed to be comfortable to hold and highly customisable. A curved shape features an easy-to-reach button layout, with frequent controls grouped together for easy access. Controls can be easily adjusted and reassigned to suit each user’s individual requirements, and a top LCD screen with backlight illumination provides additional flexibility to monitor and adjust image parameters mid-shoot. A dedicated Quick Control button also provides instant and convenient access to the full range of camera settings during shooting.

The EOS 60Da also features a 7.7cm (3.0”) Vari-angle wide LCD screen and Live View support – ideal for composing shots using a tripod. The screen’s Vari-angle hinge provides flexibility, while Live View mode provides convenient, precision control, allowing photographers to finely adjust composition and camera settings. The LCD’s fine 1,040k-dot resolution also provides exceptional levels of on-screen detail during and after shooting, allowing astrophotographers to compose and review their shots with confidence.

 

For more flexible shooting, the EOS 60Da is compatible with the optional
Timer Remote Controller TC-80N3 (Connected via the supplied Remote Controller Adapter RA-E3) – a programmable remote shutter control that allows the adjustment of settings without disturbing the camera’s position. The TC-80N3 provides the flexibility to remotely capture images at custom-selected intervals or shoot exposures over long periods, making it ideal for shooting time lapse movies of the night skies. A supplied ACK-E6 AC Adaptor allows continued shooting using mains power – ideal for long exposures – and EOS Utility software allows users to control settings, or view the framed image from a PC or Mac connected via USB mid-shoot.

As part of the EOS System the EOS 60Da is also compatible with the world’s most comprehensive selection of interchangeable lenses, ranging from the 8mm to 800mm – providing both power and exceptional creative choice for astrophotographers.

EOS 60Da - key features:
Enhanced sensitivity to IR light
18 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
Vari-angle 7.7cm (3.0”) 3:2 Clear View LCD screen
ISO 100-6,400 (expandable to ISO 12,800)
Time-lapse shooting with EOS Utility or optional Timer Remote Controller TC-80N3

Pricing and Availability

The EOS 60Da is available from June 2012, priced at £1,174.99/EUR 1,399.00 RRP incl. VAT.

For more information, please visit www.canon.com, www.canon.co.uk.

Related Posts

Fujifilm IS Pro UV-IR DSLR review

Nikon D800 in stock at Play.com, Amazon.de

UPDATE: That didn't last long, when adding to the basket it says they're 'no longer available'.

Guernsey based dealer play.com has the eagerly-awaited Nikon D800 in stock at £2,599.99 (including free delivery). Please click any of the preceding links to buy or click here to buy (you'll have to follow the links, as there's no direct buy button from the Nikon D800 page).

Download the D800 instruction manual, here.

Related Posts

Nikon D800 in stock at Play.com, Amazon.de

Leica 35mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH in stock

Adorama has the 35mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH in stock at $3,195. Please click here to buy. Looks like some stock is beginning to trickle in from Germany, now the price increases have taken effect.

Related Posts

Leica M8.2 review (inc 35mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH samples)

Sigma announces price and availability of new 50-150mm f/2.8 DC OS HSM

Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd has announced the suggested retail price of the new (updated) 50-150mm f2.8 DC OS HSM is £949.99 and will be available in the UK in mid April for Canon fit and mid May for Nikon and Sigma fit. The new re-designed lens adapts image stabilisation and is designed for APS-C cameras, providing a field of view equivalent to 75-225mm f/2.8.

Press release:

50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC APO OS HSM
Large aperture telephoto zoom lens designed specifically for digital SLRs

Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd is pleased to announce that the suggested retail price of the new 50-150mm f2.8 DC OS HSM is £949.99. This new lens will be available in the UK in mid April for Canon fit and mid May for Nikon and Sigma fit.

Sigma’s proprietary OS (Optical Stabiliser) system enables hand held tele-photography by allowing the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible.

Six SLD glass elements compensate for chromatic aberrations and provide high image quality throughout the zoom range. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and ensures sharp and high contrast images even at the maximum apertures.

The lens design adopts an inner focusing and inner zooming system to provide convenient handling and the HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures quiet and high speed autofocus while allowing full-time manual focus override.

This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 80cm (31.5”) and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:6.3. The rounded 9 blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out of focus areas of the image. The addition of Sigma’s TELE CONVERTER 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO produces a 70-210 F4 AF telephoto zoom lens or 100-300 F5.6 AF telephoto zoom respectively.

For more information, please visit: www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

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

Nikon D800 in stock at Amazon Germany

UPDATE: Amazon.de is back to pre-orders.

Amazon Germany is showing the Nikon D800 in stock at EUR 2,899 (£2,399, straight conversion), including VAT. Please click here to buy. Amazon France are showing the D800 shipping in 1 to 3 weeks, but at EUR 3,399 inc VAT.

I do not know if it can be shipped to the UK, but if anyone orders one and is not prevented in doing so at the time, please let me know so I can pass it on.

Nikon UK announces cashback on D7000

From the press release:

NIKON’S NEW BUMPER CASHBACK OFFER
 
London, UK: Nikon UK launches a new bumper D-SLR promotion offering up to £100 cashback on selected Nikon D-SLR cameras until 30th May 2012 inclusive.
 
Cashback is available on the Nikon D3100, D5100 and D7000; full cashback amounts can be found below.

All claims must be received by the 30th June 2012 in order to qualify.  For more information on the promotion, and how to submit your claim, please visit: www.nikon.co.uk/cashback.

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

Related Posts

Nikon D7000 review

Canon Europe announces cashback scheme

Press release:

Canon announces its latest Cashback scheme: Power to celebrate

Canon has launched their latest Cashback with offers on selected DSLRs, lenses, accessories, compact cameras and inkjet printers.

The Cashback will run from Thursday 29th March until Tuesday 5th June 2012.  
The last claim date for the promotion will be 31st July 2012.

EOS
EOS 600D body only and with lens kit                £50 / euro 60 cash back value
EOS 550D + Kits body only and with lens kit         £30 / euro 35 cash back value

EF Zoom - Standard                
EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM                        £25 / euro 30 cash back value
EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM                                £60 / euro 70 cash back value
EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM                                £90 / euro 100 cash back value
EF Zoom - Telephoto                
EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS                                £45 / euro 50 cash back value
EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM                        £45 / euro 50 cash back value
EF 70-200mm f/4L USM                                £45 / euro 50 cash back value
EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM                                £90 / euro 100 cash back value
EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM                                 £90 / euro 100 cash back value
EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM                        £90 / euro 100 cash back value
EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM                        £90 / euro 100 cash back value
EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM                        £175 / euro 200 cash back value

EF Zoom - Wide                
EF 17-40mm f/4L USM                                £60 / euro 70 cash back value
EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM                        £60 / euro 70 cash back value
EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM                        £60 / euro 70 cash back value
EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM                                £90 / euro 100 cash back value

Macro                
EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM                                £25 / euro 30 cash back value
EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM                                £45 / euro 50 cash back value
EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM                        £60 / euro 70 cash back value

Accessories
Speedlite 270EX II                                        £25 / euro 30 cash back value
Speedlite 320EX                                        £25 / euro 30 cash back value
Speedlite 430EX II                                        £25 / euro 30 cash back value
Extender EF 2.0x III                                        £25 / euro 30 cash back value
Extender EF 1.4x III                                        £25 / euro 30 cash back value

PIXMA                
PIXMA  MG5350                                        £30 /  euro 35 cash back value
PIXMA  MG6250                                        £30 / euro 35 cash back value

PowerShot                
PowerShot SX220 HS                                        £30 / euro 35 cash back value
PwerShot  SX230 HS                                        £30 / euro 35 cash back value
PowerShot SX240 HS                                        £30 / euro 35 cash back value
PowerShot SX260 HS                                        £30 / euro 35 cash back value

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

Sigma UK confirm availibility of 19mm, 30mm EX DN lenses

Sigma UK has announced the new 19mm and 30mm f/2.8 lenses for Sony and Micro Four Thirds cameras are to carry a SRP of £169.99 inc. VAT and will be available immediately.

That's interesting not only for their intended market but also because it has been suggested that these two lenses (or perhaps a slight variation) are to be adopted on the forthcoming (and hugely anticipated) 46MP DP1 and DP2 Merrill compacts. However, a spokesperson for Sigma told the DJP that the company was still some time off having working cameras (prototypes), so we're unlikely to see an announcement confirming the price or availability anytime soon.

Press Release:

19mm F2.8 EX DN and 30mm F2.8 EX DN now available in the UK

Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd is pleased to announce that the new Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN and 30mm F2.8 EX DN are now available in the UK in both Sony E-mount and Micro Four Thirds fittings.

Both lenses have a UK SRP of £169.99 including VAT and are designed exclusively for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

Glass mold aspherical lenses provide excellent correction for distortion, colour aberration and field curvature. The inner focusing system corrects the fluctuation of aberration to maintain image quality regardless of the focus distance. Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp and high contrast images even at the maximum aperture. The superior telecentric optical design improves image quality throughout the frame. Both lenses benefit from a newly developed linear AF motor which moves the lens elements directly without the need for gears or the drive of other mechanical parts. This system ensures accurate and quiet autofocusing, making the lenses suitable for video recording as well as still photos.

For more information please visit www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

Canon USA announces 20pc off refurbs

Canon USA are offerring up to 20-percent off refurbished products, including 15-per-cent off DSLRs and EF lenses. Unfortunately, it looks as if all the those reduced Canon EOS 5D Mk IIs have gone already. Pity.

Please click here to buy.

Nikon issues statement over D800, D4 price hike

NIKON UK Press Statement 26-March-2012

Nikon UK can confirm a correction to the originally published recommended retail prices (RRP) on the D800, D800E and D4 products.
 
Due to a local internal systems error, the incorrect RRPs on the D800, D800E and D4 products were communicated in the UK and Irish markets at the time of announcement. The correct RRPs for the products should have been D4: £5289.99, D800: £2,599.99 and D800E: £2,899.99. We would like to apologise sincerely to our customers for this unfortunate mistake, which has been corrected with immediate effect. We know that there has been strong consumer interest in these products and a high level of pre-orders placed with retailers; Nikon will be honouring the original prices to retailers on all customer pre-orders placed before March 24th 2012.
 

Related Posts

Nikon UK unexpectedly raises price on D4, D800 UPDATED

Lens choice for the Nikon D800, D800E

Research Station, 2,8/21 Distagon T* 1/200sec at f/5.6.

I recently had the opportunity to review the Carl Zeiss 2.8/21 Distagon T* for a well-known UK photo magazine, and I hope to be able to post a in-depth review here in the future. In the meantime, however, with all the interest in finding lenses to pair with the 36MP D800 and D800E, this lens (which is also available in Canon mount) is the finest retrofocus wide-angle lens money can buy. It has high resolving power even at maximum aperture, outstanding colour purity, superb micro contrast and an attractive drawing style that's typical of Carl Zeiss. If there's a slight downside it exhibits slight complex (moustache) shaped distortion, like its Contax mount predecessor. It is very slight though.

Buy the Zeiss 2,8/21 from;

Amazon UK (£1,337.24)
Amazon US ($1,843)
Adorama ($1,843)

Related Posts

Zeiss announces new Distagon T* 2,8/15

Carl Zeiss unwraps new Distagon T* 25mm f/2

Carl Zeiss to offer UV and Polarizer filters in 77mm

Carl Zeiss to expand HDSLR lens range, end Pentax ZK

Carl Zeiss roll out two Compact Primes

Zeiss launch 35mm f/1.4 for Nikon and Canon

Nikon UK unexpectedly raises price on D4, D800 UPDATED

UPDATE (26th March): Nikon has today issued a statement confirming the price increases. However, Nikon add they will be honouring the original prices to retailers on all customer pre-orders placed before March 24th 2012.
UPDATE (24th March): Jessops are now showing the increase on the Nikon D800 (£2599) and Nikon D800E (£2899).
UPDATE: Jessops are now showing the price of the D4 at £5,289, Wex still at £4,799. The prices of the D800 (£2,399) and D800E (£2,689) remain unchanged at the time of posting. Amazon UK have the Nikon D800 at £2,399 but have not shown the Nikon D4 available for pre-order, unlike other dealers. Interestingly, Jersey-based Play.com has the D800 listed at just £2,099.99 - though it's not clear if that price includes VAT. They have a 'Pre-Order Price Promise', but it's based on the price dropping (so you pay the lower price), not on it increasing.

According to a contributor* to the Pixiq site, John Walshe, General Manager, Nikon UK has emailed dealers this evening to inform them that due to a "systems error" the RRP (recommended retail price) of the D4 is to be increased by £500 ($800 USD), while the RRP of the D800 is to be raised £200 ($320 USD). Back ordered cameras won't escape the the price hike, it's claimed. We expect a press release from Nikon UK on Monday confirming the story.
At the time of posting, Wex and Jessops are still showing prices of the D4 at £4,799, though that could change as soon as tomorrow morning.
* Pixiq contributor Simon Stafford is the technical editor of Nikon Owner magazine, a publication of the highly-regarded Nikon only UK retailer, Grays of Westminster.
via Pixiq

Leica product launch May 10

It has ben reported on various sites and intent communities that invites have gone out to publishers for an event in Berlin on May 10th for a range of new products. Rumors are circulating about an M9 variant with a black and white sensor (no color filter array), which I think is plausible though I was expecting that announcement at this year's Photokina. The date is significant. May 10th is too good an opportunity to pass up for the introduction of a new M10, I really can't believe Leica would miss this date to launch a new X2 and a mirrorless solution. I expect to see all three, maybe even a new S3 (which is due a refresh) with the M10 B&W announced at Photokina.

Rare Interview With Henri Cartier-Bresson - 'The Father of Modern Photojournalism'

Don't miss this very rare hour long interview with one of the pioneers of photojournalism. Cartier-Bresson helped developed the 'street photography' style that has influenced generations of photographers and mobile photographers who have followed...

via Eric Kim

Pentax confirms availability of smc DA 25mm f4AL [IF] lens for 645D

Pentax has today confirmed the previously announced smc DA645 25mm f/4 AW will be available from mid-April 2012, at the RRP of £3999.99 (GBP) or $4,999 (USD). The lens is the equivalent to 20mm in full-frame 35mm terms and boasts several interesting features/benefits including a built-in pull-out filter holder (supplied with a 40.5mm polarizer filter), new Aero Bright (nano - tech) coating to reduce flare and weatherproofing.

Pre-order from B&H Photo ($4,999.95).

 

Press release:

smc PENTAX-DA645 25mm F4AL [IF] SDM AW
 
A high-performance, unifocal lens, exclusively designed for the PENTAX 645D to produce breathtaking ultra-wide-angle images

PENTAX RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX-DA645 25mm F4AL [IF] SDM AW.

Designed for exclusive use with the PENTAX 645D, this unifocal, ultra-wide-angle lens features PENTAX-original optics optimized for high-quality digital photography to ensure exceptional high resolution images. The sturdy construction of the lens, which is dustproof and weather-resistant, makes it ideal for outdoors photography.

Major Features
1. Unifocal, ultra-wide-angle lens
When mounted on the PENTAX 645D medium-format digital SLR camera body, this ultra-wide-angle lens offers a focal length of approximately 19.5mm in the 35mm format, providing the widest perspective of all the lenses compatible with the PENTAX 645D. Creating visual effects unique to ultra-wide-angle lenses, such as exaggerated perspective and extra-wide depth of field, it can be effectively used for a wide range of subjects and situations, including spectacular landscapes and indoor shooting within a confined space. This lens gives the PENTAX 645D greater photographic freedom and flexibility.
 
2. State-of-the-art optics
Incorporating two high-performance a-spherical optical elements within its optics, this ultra-wide-angle lens provides exceptional image-resolving power with outstanding brightness levels even at the edges, whilst keeping any aberrations to a minimum. All lens characteristics are optimized for digital photography, for instance - exclusive lens coatings are applied to optical elements, while anti-reflection materials are applied to the interior of the lens barrel. The result is a lens that brings out the full potential of the PENTAX 645D medium-format digital SLR camera.

3. Aero Bright Coating to dramatically improve transmittance
This lens is treated with a PENTAX-original Aero Bright Coating, which ensures outstanding anti-reflection performance over a broader wavelength range to deliver images that are brighter and of higher quality. Created using PENTAX’s advanced nanotechnology, this exclusive coating reduces lens reflections and greatly improves light transmittance by forming a silica aerogel layer with uniform pores on the surface of the optical elements.

4. Dependable dustproof, weather-resistant construction
As the newest model of the dependable AW (All Weather) series, the lens comes in a highly dependable dustproof, weather-resistant construction with 11 special seals to effectively prevent the intrusion of dust and water into the lens interior. By coupling this lens with the PENTAX 645D camera body, the user is assured of a durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly in demanding outdoor settings — even in rain and mist, or locations prone to water splashes or spray.

5. Mountable circular polarizing filter
The lens features a built-in, pull-out-type filter holder in its barrel. By placing the C-PL (circular polarizing) filter (40.5mm in diameter; included as an exclusive accessory) on this holder, the user can easily rotate the filter to obtain the desired polarizing effect.

6. Smooth, quiet SDM autofocus operation
The advanced SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor) autofocus mechanism has a supersonic motor installed inside the lens barrel which ensures a smooth, quiet autofocus operation.

7. Other features
・  High-quality machined aluminum parts, including the lens barrel, hood and cap
・  The built-in lens hood is optimally shaped for the angle of view when the lens is mounted on the PENTAX 645D camera body
・  Quick-Shift Focus system for instant switching to manual-focus operation, after the subject is captured in focus by the AF system
・  Rounded diaphragm to produce a smooth, beautiful “bokeh” (out-of-focus rendition), while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources
・  SP (Special Protect) coating applied to the front surface of the lens to effectively repel dust, water and grease
 

Related Posts

Pentax announces 25mm f/4 AL[IF] SDM AW for 645D

Pentax 645D review

Canon EOS 5D Mk III in stock at B&H Photo

We've had the Canon EOS 5D Mk III c/w 24-105mm f/4L parfocal in stock here in the UK for a week or so, but B&H Photo has just received their first deliveries - but they won't last long.

Buy at B&H Photo $4,299

Petrol Bags to announce new models at NAB show

Press release:

Petrol Bags Intros Audio, DSLR, Monitor bags and more at 2012 NAB Show

Tel Aviv, Israel: March 22, 2012 – Petrol Bags, part of Vitec Videocom, a Vitec Group company, announces a diverse range of new camera and audio equipment bags to be introduced at 2012 NAB Show, April 16–19 at the LVCC in booth #C6034.

New for Audio
Petrol Bags premieres four new products for audio. The Deca Audio Bag (PS614) is an ultra-lightweight carrier designed to securely transport sound equipment and keep it safe, organized, and accessible while working. It accommodates a Zaxcom Nomad or Sound Devices SD 788 mixer with a CL8 controller and offers easy access to the SD522 mixer’s SD card slot. Users will also appreciate the new Portable Digital Recorder Pouch to hold the Zoom H4N, Tascam DR-100 and DR-40 or similar size portable digital recorders. Its top flap is constructed of Transparent Polyurethane (TPU) for maximum visibility while shielding the recorder’s front panel and top external microphones. The lightweight yet rugged Deca Wireless Case employs an internal honeycomb frame for extra strength and extreme protection when transporting wireless system devices and other equipment. The upgraded Deca Sound Man Rain Poncho comfortably covers and protects a user carrying a mixer and fully loaded Petrol Eargonizer bag. It now features black ripstop nylon and TPU coating for greater elasticity and water protection in addition to keeping the user cooler and more comfortable.

New for Lighting
Petrol Bags will introduce the Liteporter professional carrier especially designed to transport and protect a Litepanels 1x1 LED light fixture. Liteporter has room to comfortably hold a Litepanels 1x1 LED fixture or similar size light, detachable mounting yoke, AC power supply with cord, power cable, an Anton/Bauer battery, and color/conversion diffusion gels. Constructed of rugged, water-resistant black 900D polyester and nylon, this lightweight, semi-hard case features an internal one-piece ABS honeycomb frame for extra strength and protection.

New for Video-enabled DSLRs
The new Rolling DigiSuite DSLR Camera Case is a carry-on size roll-away camera bag designed especially for the DSLR shooter on the go. It glides smoothly and effortlessly on a built-in wheel and tote assembly, and its front lid unzips quickly to reveal a central compartment contoured to comfortably fit up to two DSLR cameras with lens attached. Detachable internal dividers help secure contents and create pockets for storing spare lenses, a mattebox, camera base plate, follow focus, camera light, viewfinder, cables and more.

New LCD Monitor Bags
Petrol Bags will showcase two new LCD monitor bags. The Deca 5” Monitor Bag is uniquely designed to safely transport auxiliary LCD camera monitors up to 5” in size. The bag’s top flap opens envelope-style into a sturdy four-sided hood to ease viewing. The Deca 21.5” LCD Monitor Bag is custom designed for a Flanders Scientific LM-2140W or similar size LCD monitor. Both Monitor Bags offer multiple working benefits on location.

Vitec Group Live Event Area
The Vitec Group will host some of the most renowned figures in the broadcast and filmmaking industry in its dedicated Live Event Area at this year’s 2012 NAB Show on April 16–19. For example director and Pulitzer Prize winning photographer, Vincent Laforet, will discuss “Emerging Technology and Digital Storytelling” on Monday April 16. The complete event itinerary can be found at www.vitecliveevent.com.

 

 

Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT in stock

Canon's new top of the range Speedlite, the 600EX-RT (wireless version), which was unveiled alongside the Canon EOS 5D MkIII, is now in stock at the following retailers:

Jessops £679.95

Wex Photographic £679

Please note, buying through these links won't cost you anything extra and may benefit this site.

Adobe announces Photoshop CS6 beta

Adobe has today announced Photoshop CS6 beta, which is available as a free download from Adobe Labs. Although you can download the beta, it's hoped you'll provide feedback to the product team.
 
Photoshop CS6 beta is available for the Mac OS and Microsoft Windows platforms. The final release is expected in the first half of 2012.

Press release

Photoshop CS6 Beta Now Available on Adobe Labs
First Major Release since April 2010 Packed with New Features and Huge Performance Enhancements

LONDON, UK. — March 22, 2012 — Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced Adobe® Photoshop® CS6 beta, a preview of what’s to come in the next release of the industry standard in digital imaging, is available as a free download from Adobe Labs. Customers can download the beta, try out the experience and provide feedback to the product team. Packed with groundbreaking new innovations, features and incredible performance enhancements, Photoshop CS6 beta is available for the Mac OS and Microsoft® Windows® platforms. The final release is expected in the first half of 2012.

“Photoshop CS6 will be a milestone release that pushes the boundaries of imaging innovation with incredible speed and performance,” said Winston Hendrickson, vice president products, Creative Media Solutions, Adobe. “We couldn’t wait to share this beta of Photoshop CS6 with our customers and are looking forward to hearing from them and seeing the ways they are incorporating the beta into their daily creative workflows.”

New Features in Photoshop CS6 Beta
Photoshop CS6 beta demonstrates Adobe’s focus on huge performance enhancements, imaging magic and creativity tools that offer customers a new experience in digital imaging. Key features include new additions to the Content-Aware tools: Content-Aware Patch allows greater control by letting users select and duplicate an area of an image to fill in or “patch” another, and Content-Aware Move lets users select and magically move an object to a new place in the image.
Customers will experience incredible performance, powered by the new Adobe Mercury Graphics Engine*, enabling near-instant results from popular editing tools including Liquify, Puppet Warp, Transform and Lighting Effects; and a refined, modern interface featuring dark UI options to make images pop. New and re-engineered design tools make creating designs faster and more efficient. Vector layers allow users to apply dashed lines and gradient strokes, searchable layers quickly zero in on any layer, and new type styles let designers swiftly apply type treatments to their designs.
 
In addition, the Photoshop CS6 beta offers all the features of Adobe Photoshop CS6 and Adobe Photoshop CS6 Extended, such as new 3D editing features and quantitative imaging analysis capabilities. These features will be included in the shipping version of Photoshop CS6 Extended when it becomes available.

Pricing and Availability
The Photoshop CS6 beta is available immediately as a free download in English and Japanese. At installation, users will be required to provide an Adobe ID to complete a one-time login and online product activation. For information on how to install Photoshop CS6 beta, visit www.adobe.com/go/photoshopcs6. Customers can submit feedback via the Photoshop CS6 beta forum. Users can also connect with the Photoshop team via the community-powered site; on Facebook; YouTube; Photoshop.com blog; or via Twitter

Adorama special on Tokina 16-28mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro

Adorama has a special currently on the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX zoom. The regular price is $849 but the sale price is $699 after the retailer's discount and $50 mail-in rebate (from Tokina).

Please follow the links to buy:

Canon fit
Nikon fit

Related Posts

Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX review

SanDisk reposition pricing in the UK

After the price reductions of SanDisk and Lexar memory cards in the US, SanDisk has repositioned their SD range in the UK (expect Lexar to follow suit shortly). The fastest currently available are the 95MB/s* (633x speed rated equivalent) cards under the Extreme Pro branding (note there are some slower variants around, but this maybe older stock.) These cards are UHS-1 (class 1) UDMA-6 compatible but use a different controller - the same as the CF Exteme Pro series. Previously available at £79, the 16GB card, for instance, can now be had from Amazon UK at just £43.50.

UPDATE

Wex are retailing the 16GB Extreme Pro card at £59

Jessops are still retailing the same card at £71.96 (was £90).

Related Posts

SanDisk and Adorama start Extreme promotion

Fujifilm X-Pro1 in stock at Jessops

UK dealer, Jessops, has the eagerly awaited Fujifilm X-Pro1 in stock at £1,429.95 body only. We'll update this page with links to the lenses as soon as we have the details.

UPDATE: Jessops are now displaying the lenses in stock:

XF 18mm f/2R at £549.95
XF 35mm f/1.4R at £549.95
XF 60mm f/2.4R Macro at £599.95

Related Posts

Fuji announces X-Pro 1
Fuji X10 review
Fuji X100 review

Rare Finds on eBay

UPDATE: The lens has been, inexplicably, removed from sale.

One of Nikon's most esoteric and desireable lenses, the 13mm f/5.6, can be found on eBay currently. Designed by Ikuo Mori and boasting an angle of view of 118-degrees it was, at the time of introduction (1976), the widest rectilinear lens made for 35mm camera and an ideal lens for architecture. It was also one of Nikon's most expensive lenses, built to order only less than 400 were made in total. The lens for sale looks like the first version which has been factory modified for the AI mount. The second version starting at 175501 was made with a AI mount and the third version from serial number 175901 was modified for AIS.

Nikon D4 in stock at retailers

UPDATE: The links are back to pre-orders only.

Nikon's eagerly awaited top-of-the-range Nikon D4 is in stock in several UK retailers. Please follow the links to buy (not pre-order!)

Jessops £4,799.95 (with free EN-EL8 battery worth £130)

Wex Photographic £4,799

Amazon UK are not showing the D4 in stock, but we'll update this post as soon as it is.

Amazon US are still showing pre-orders (at USD $5,999).

Canon EOS 5D Mk III in stock at UK retailers Jessops, Wex

Warehouse Express have the Canon EOS 5D Mk III in stock at £3689 (with the 24-105mm f4L - not body only). Please click here to buy.

As we reported Thursday, Jessops has the 5D Mk III and 24-105mm lens in stock at £3690. Please click here to buy.

Please note, buying through links may benefit this site.

Canon EOS-1 DX available to pre-order at Amazon

Amazon US has started pre-orders on the EOS 1-DX at $6,799. Please follow the link below:

Canon EOS-1D X 18.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera

Thank you for buying through this site's links.

Related Posts

Canon EOS-1 DX available to pre-order at B&H Photo (and Adorama)

Phase One lowers price of Capture One, launches new site

Phase One Makes Superior Image Quality More Accessible

Company Launches New Web Site; Lowers Price of Capture One and Increases Its Trial Period to 60 days

COPENHAGEN, March 17, 2012 — Phase One, the world’s leading pro photography equipment provider, today launched a new web site dedicated to the user experience of its customers and new visitors. The site’s greatly improved usability offers easier access to information and tools to help professionals and other discerning photographers achieve the highest image quality results.

As part of this new user-experience focus, Phase One has extended the trial period for its Capture One 6 raw converter and photo editing software from 30 to 60 days and reduced its price. This gives more people the opportunity to experience the distinctive image quality available only with Capture One -- including its renowned raw rendering engine that produces photographs with the feel of film, superior control, true skin tones and robust support for very large files.

Capture One comes in three versions. Capture One Pro supports virtually every professional DSLR and most popular camera models and includes powerful tools to enhance the capture and editing processes. Capture One Express features the same high quality processing engine as Capture One Pro, but is without some of the more advanced tools. Capture One DB ships with all Phase One medium format camera systems, including the powerful IQ180 systems.

Capture One Pro supports the Capture Pilot iPad app that allows an iOS device to remotely view, zoom, rate, tag, and pan high resolution images during a shoot. An available 'Camera Control' in-app  purchase adds a virtual camera display to an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch to remotely fire your camera and control the most important capture settings.

Availability and pricing
Capture One Pro is available for USD299 and EUR229; Capture One Express is now priced at USD99 and EUR69. The software is available for purchase at: http://www.phaseone.com/store. The software is available for download at: www.phaseone.com/downloads. More information is available at: http://www.phaseone.com/capture-one

NPG, BT announce BT Road to 2012: Aiming High

Beth Tweddle b.1985 Beth Tweddle (third from left), Hannah Whelan (left), Jenni Pinches (second left) Rebecca Tunney (right). Photographed by Anderson & Low, 17th November 2011, Liverpool. © Anderson & Low - National Portrait Gallery/BT Road to 2012 project

Press release:

The National Portrait Gallery in collaboration with BT, a premier partner of London 2012, is proud to present BT Road to 2012: Aiming High, a major summer exhibition of London Olympic photographs. 

BT Road to 2012: Aiming High is the extraordinary final culmination of a three year exhibition project, National Portrait Gallery/BT Road to 2012. 

As part of a major gallery commission of over 100 works, around forty new portraits by the highly acclaimed and newly commissioned photographers were announced today: Anderson & Low, Nadav Kander and Jillian Edelstein. The new photographs will go on show at the National Portrait Gallery on 19 July.

The first three portraits, released today, are of champion gymnast Beth Tweddle by Anderson & Low, rising track and field star Jodie Williams by Nadav Kander and Jan Matthews, the lady responsible for the world's largest peacetime catering operation, by Jillian Edelstein. New sitters are to be confirmed and released in due course.

These new portraits will be shown alongside the key works from the previous two exhibitions by photographers Brian Griffin, Bettina von Zwehl, Finlay McKay and Emma Hardy. These could include some well known faces such as Seb Coe, Stella McCartney, Danny Boyle, Philips Idowu and Pippa Funnell, amongst others.

In addition, thanks to BT funding, highlights from the previous two exhibitions, Setting Out (2010) and Changing Pace (2011) as well as a selection of the new photographs, will go on a free regional outdoor UK tour. Launching in Cardiff on 30 March, moving to Edinburgh on 1 June and on to Birmingham on 13 July.

ROAD TO 2012: AIMING HIGH
19 July - 23 September 2012, National Portrait Gallery www.npg.org.uk/roadto2012
- Made possible by BT, Premier Partner of the London 2012 Festival
- Part of the London 2012 Festival

Jan Matthews b.1961 Photographed by Jillian Edelstein, 8th November 2011, Smithfield Market, London. © Jillian Edelstein - National Portrait Gallery/BT Road to 2012 Project

Jodie Williams b.1993 Photographed by Nadav Kander, 15th December 2011, London. © Nadav Kander - National Portrait Gallery/BT Road to 2012 project

Photojournalist, light mod maker David Honl to host UK seminars

David Honl, the photojournalist behind the popular light modifiers of the same name will be in the UK appearing at several events to talk about his work as a photographer and demonstrate his unique range of light-shaping products for portable, battery operated flash units or speedlites.

Schedule of events:

Thursday 29 March:  Calumet Drummond Street 

Friday 30 March:  special event for Nikon Owners Club members in Kensington, contact Mike Eleftheriades of the NOC 

Tuesday 3 April:  meet 11 am at The Flash Centre London 

Wednesday 4 April:  Phototraining 4 U Cardiff,  or email news@phototraining4u.com

Thursday 5 April:  Robert White Photographic  Poole, or email info@robertwhite.co.uk
 

Sales

Buy Honl Photo gear from Amazon (USA), or Amazon UK. Please note, buying through these links may benefit this site.

Zeiss announces new Distagon T* 2,8/15

As expected, Carl Zeiss has today announced the new Distagon T* 2,8/15 or in more common parlance, a 15mm f/2.8 ultra-wide lens with a 110 degree angle of view. The lens features anomalous partial dispersion glass (to reduce chromatic aberration) and is the first in the Zeiss range to feature aspherical lens surfaces. The new manual focus lens will be available in May in both Nikon and Canon mounts and will have a retail price of US$2,948 or 2,148 euros, £1786 (excluding VAT)*

Pre-order from:

B&H Photo ($2,950)
Adorama ($2,950)

Press release

Carl Zeiss presents the new Distagon T* 2,8/15 super wide angle lens

Carl Zeiss brings out a new super wide angle lens in May 2012. The super wide angle Distagon T* 2,8/15 will be available with an EF (ZE) or F bayonet (ZF.2). With an extra-large angle of view of 110  degrees in combination with a fast f/2.8 aperture, the lens enables the features for dramatic perspectives and performance demanded by the most ambitious landscape and architectural photographers. With a unique ability to capture events in a natural and extraordinary manner, it is also an ideal companion for advertising, journalism and commercial photography.

For more information, please visit www.zeiss.com, or visit the Zeiss US blog.

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

Canon EOS 5D Mk III arriving tomorrow say Jessops

UK retailer, Jessops, are saying on their site that the first stock of the new Canon EOS 5D Mk III (complete with 24-105mm L lens) is arriving tomorrow (March 16). That's almost a week ahead of the March 22 the retailer quoted earlier. However, they're still saying to pre-order to secure.

Please follow the link here to buy.

Canon EOS-1 DX available to pre-order at B&H Photo

Although the EOS-1 DX has been available to pre-order in the UK, that's not been the case in the US as dealers have had to wait for the pricing. However, the delay is over at least for customers of B&H Photo. Adorama and Amazon are sure to follow, and we'll update this post when that happens.

Pre-order the EOS 1DX body at B&H Photo ($6,799.00)

UPDATE: Adorama has been taking pre-orders for the EOS-1 DX from before Christmas, so they tell me (thanks, Helen). Please follow the link here ($6,799).