Sony unveil three A-mount lenses for Alpha DSLRs

SONY EXPANDS A-MOUNT LENS LINE-UP FOR DSLR CAMERAS WITH THREE NEW LENSES

Sony expands its already strong line-up of over 30 A-mount lenses with new models that will appeal to seasoned photographers and those new to DSLR cameras alike

· The Distagon T* 24mm F2 ZA SSM (SAL24F20Z) features the acclaimed Carl Zeiss Distagon design and rounds out the existing Planar (SAL85F14Z) and Sonnar (SAL135F18Z) models also developed in conjunction with Carl Zeiss. It is intended to appeal to experienced photographers looking for a large-aperture wide-angle lens of real distinction.

· The DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) adds the important 35mm focal length to the ‘Easy Choice’ series. ‘Easy Choice’ is intended to provide great value, compact and lightweight lenses that are attractive to entry-level and advanced photographers alike. Each lens in the series is selected for a specific purpose, for example portraiture or macro.

· The 85mm F2.8 SAM (SAL85F28) is another ‘Easy Choice’ lens, this time offering the 85mm focal length considered the standard for portraiture because of the natural perspective it provides. True to type it is extremely compact and light, weighing just 175g.

The lenses will be available from September 2010.

Distagon T* 24mm F2 SSM (SAL24F20Z)
The Distagon T* 24mm F2 SSM (SAL24F20Z) functions as a wide-angle 24mm lens on full-frame cameras with 35mm sensors, or as a 36mm equivalent lens ideal for general use on cameras with APS-C sensors. Jointly developed with Carl Zeiss, it features the highly-regarded Carl Zeiss Distagon retro-focus lens configuration designed for wide-angle lenses.

This lens is distinguished by its fast response focus and extremely quiet, very smooth operation thanks to its built-in SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor).

It offers a wide and therefore highly versatile focal range from 0.19m to infinity, and features a nine-blade circular aperture that along with the large F2 maximum aperture contributes to smooth, natural bokeh effects.

In keeping with traditional Carl Zeiss design, the all-metal lens barrel has been finished to a very high standard resulting in a visibly high-quality appearance.

DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (SAL35F18)
Part of the ‘Easy Choice’ series, offering photographers at all levels great value, compact and lightweight lenses, the DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) weighs just 170g. It can be added to a lens kit system and carried without noticeably increasing the weight of the bag.

With an approximately 50mm (35mm equivalent) focal length on an APS-C sensor, this lens is ideal for snapshots and portraits under a wide range of shooting conditions. The high-speed F1.8 maximum aperture is particularly advantageous for hand held shooting in low light.

At just 0.23 metres, the DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) has the shortest minimum focus in its class, making it an excellent choice for dramatic close-ups too. Whatever the shot, the internal Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) drives the focussing group directly and ensures responsive and fluid autofocus operation.

85mm F2.8 SAM (SAL85F28)
This is the first full-frame lens in the ‘Easy Choice’ range, so its launch represents an important development of the line-up as a whole. The 85mm focal length is a standard for portraiture because of the natural perspective that it provides. On an APS-C sensor camera the 85mm F2.8 SAM (SAL85F28) functions as a 127.5mm (35mm equivalent) telephoto lens – and features a Sonnar-type optical design that is considered ideal for mid-range telephoto lenses.

The lens is sharp center to corner, and features smooth defocusing thanks to its large F2.8 maximum aperture and circular aperture design. At 0.6 metres, the minimum focusing distance is the shortest in its class, and SAM motor technology ensures smooth autofocus operation.

The quality optical and mechanical features of the lens mean it is suitable for serious photography and should more than satisfy intermediate to advanced users.

Canon announces firmware update for EOS 7D

Firmware changes

Firmware Version 1.2.2 incorporates the following fixes.

Fixes a phenomenon in which the set aperture moves when shooting movies in manual exposure mode using some Canon lenses (such as macro lenses).
Fixes the AF point-selection behavior of the C.Fn III-7 (Manual AF pt. selec. pattern) custom function when set to [1].
Fixes the AF point display for the viewfinder electronic level when shooting in the vertical position.
Corrects misspellings in the Spanish and Thai menus for applicable products.
The Version 1.2.2 firmware is for cameras with firmware up to Version 1.2.1. If the camera's firmware is already Version 1.2.2, it is not necessary to update the firmware. Note that cameras with the Version 1.2.2 firmware (and also Versions 1.2.0, 1.2.1) cannot be downgraded to a previous firmware version (such as Version 1.1.0). Version 1.1.0

For more information, and to download the update please see here.

Panasonic unleashes new DMC-LX5 replacing regarded LX3

After leaks appeared on certain sites around the internet last week, Panasonic has today officially announced the Lumix LX5, replacing the highly-regarded LX3.

Press release:

DMC-LX5: Capturing Creativity with the New Panasonic DMC-LX5 Compact Digital Camera,
With New High Sensitivity CCD and F2.0 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON LENS

 

Panasonic is pleased to announce the long-awaited DMC-LX5 - a successor to the DMC-LX3, acclaimed worldwide by photography enthusiasts. The premium compact camera is fully re-designed in the lens from its predecessor with changes in the CCD and the image processing engine, and with further improvements and upgrades to the camera, ensuring the new LX5 produces high picture quality and creative images.

The DMC-LX5 packages an f/2.0 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with 24mm wide-angle and 3.8x optical zoom. This low-distortion, high-resolution lens lets you capture truly dynamic 24mm wide-angle images while rendering the tiniest nuances clearly, from corner to corner. The fully open f/2.0-3.3 aperture and iris diaphragm also work together to produce stunning scenes with gentle soft focusing. The 24mm wide-angle lens captures approx. 213% larger viewing space compared to a normal 35mm lens.
The DMC-LX5 features a large 1/1.63-inch, 10.1-megapixel ultra-sensitive CCD. It achieves high resolution, noise-less pictures even in high sensitivity recording and richly reproduced gradation in highly contrasted situations with the exquisitely wide dynamic range. In addition, the CCD in DMC-LX5 can reproduce images shot with the lens set from 24mm to 90mm in any of three aspect ratios; 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9, so you can always capture dynamic, richly expressive shots with a wide perspective.
With the Intelligent Resolution technology, 3 areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation areas – are automatically detected. Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, this technology precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel in the most effective way according to the area. As a result, images are clear and crisp in both photos and movies. The Intelligent Zoom extends the zoom ratio by approx. 1.3x maintaining the image quality even combining a digital zoom. A 3.8x optical can virtually extend to 5x equivalent.
The DMC-LX5 can record HD movie in AVCHD Lite with high sound quality of Dolby Digital Creator. Motion JPEG format is also available (1,280 x 720 pixels). Just press the Motion Picture Button, and shooting begins. In the Creative Movie Mode, the shutter speed and aperture can be adjusted. The iA Mode can also be activated in motion picture recording. When the DMC-LX5 is connected to a Panasonic VIERA via an optional mini HDMI cable, the TV's remote control unit can be used to enjoy playing back with greater convenience.
The excellent manual controllability is the advantage of DMC-LX5. The jog dial enhances the operability together with the focus switch relocated on the lens barrel. The My Color Mode and Film Mode make it easy to customize color effects to match your favor. The DMC-LX5 also features a 3.0-inch LCD with 460,000-dot high resolution and a wide range of optional accessories to choose from to match your shooting situations and style, including view finders, filters and external flashes.

More information can be found here.

 

OWC roll-out slim eSATA card for MBP

OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter Adds Plug & Play High Speed Flush Fitting eSATA Port To Mac And PC Notebooks

$39.99 hot swappable slim design card fits flush inside ExpressCard slot for Plug and Play driverless solution for connecting high speed external storage for faster data backups and archiving

July 20, 2010, Woodstock, IL -- Other World Computing (OWC®) http://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac® and PC technology company, today announced the OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter, a $39.99 MSRP solution for adding a high speed 3.0Gb/s data transfer rate eSATA port to Mac and PC notebooks via a standard ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 slot. Featuring a flush fitting design, the OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter fits completely inside an ExpressCard slot and is and is AHCI compliant for Plug and Play no driver installation required ease of use.

Performance Upgrade Made Plug And Play Simple
Adding performance upgrades to a computer often requires a time-consuming internal installation. The OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter is Plug and Play easy to use…no drivers are required and the “hot swappable” card can be inserted at any time into a standard ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 slot. Because the card features a flush-fitting, slim design, it recesses completely into an ExpressCard slot and can be left in the slot to protect both the card and connection port during mobile notebook use.

Adds Fastest Data Interface To Notebooks Cost Effectively
Available immediately and at a special introductory price of $32.99, the OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter is a highly cost-effective solution for connecting to and taking advantage of high-speed eSATA interface equipped external drives with high RPM hard drives and even faster Solid State Drives (SSD). With data transfer rates up to 3.0Gb/s, the OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter enables Mac and PC notebook users to experience the fastest possible data backup and archiving performance. For more information on the OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard, or to order, visit:
http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/EXP34SATA2F1/

“Any notebook user can benefit from adding the fastest data transfer interface to their machine,” said Larry O’Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing. “With its slim, lightweight, Plug and Play design, the OWC Slim eSATA ExpressCard can be left in a notebook ExpressCard slot so a user can always be ready to take advantage of the enhanced compatibility and high speed performance eSATA offers.”

High Performance eSATA Drives & Docks Available
In addition to its new Slim eSATA ExpressCard Adapter, OWC carries a full line of eSATA equipped external storage solutions up to 8TB. The Mercury Elite-AL Pro mini bus powered portable storage solution is a natural compliment for the mobile notebook user with models up to 1.0TB (1000GB) from $107.99. The Voyager hard drive dock priced from $27.99 provides the speed of eSATA with the unmatched convenience of swapping and accessing bare drives at will. For more information on all of OWC’s external storage options, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/firewire/ For more information on over 300 other eSATA high performance products OWC offers, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/search

Black Rapid add women's RS-W1 strap to UK range

Press release:

Black Rapid RS-W1 Women’s strap

After many requests Black Rapid has designed a strap specifically for women, which provides comfort and speed of the R-Strap whilst adding a bit of elegance to help blend with dress apparel during formal events. The design team adjusted the R-Strap’s solid design pattern and developed a curved pattern specifically for the female form.


We are pleased to announce the release of Black Rapid’s RS-W1 as the world’s first camera strap designed specifically with the female in mind. It provides comfort, speed and durability along with graceful styling.
The RS-W 1 retails at $66 and in the UK for £65 (inc VAT).
More information can be found here.
Read our review of the Black Rapid RS-5 here.

Robert White announces FREE Mark Cleghorn portable lighting seminar

Press release:

In this seminar Mark Cleghorn demonstrates the power of "off-camera" flash! He will be using speedlites with accessories like the Honl grids, the RayFlash ringflash adapter and Quantum Qflash & Turbo batteries.

Each of the different set-ups demonstrated will show you how he mixes ambient and flash to create dynamic portraits whether for an editorial style or a portrait commission.

25th August 2010
Two identical 2 hour sessions in the studio.
AM session 10.00 to 12.00
PM session 13.00 to 15.00
Discussion time in-between and after.
THIS EVENT IS TOTALLY FREE OF CHARGE
PLEASE CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR SPACE

For more information please visit http://www.robertwhite.co.uk/news.asp

Yogile unwraps new photo sharing site

Press release

At Yogile we have developed a new photo sharing service that makes it incredibly easy to share images privately and within groups.

While established photo sharing sites already exist, Yogile is different because it lets multiple people contribute with ease. Once you create an album, you get a customizable URL and e-mail address to share with anyone who wants to add photos, either as e-mail attachments or uploads through the site. There's no need for these users to register, keeping the process simple and hassle-free.

Take a wedding, for example. Dozens of attendees take their own photos, all from different cameras and angles. While you might try asking everyone for their shots afterward, Yogile offers a smart alternative.

Fore more information, please point your browser at http://www.yogile.com

ColourCofindence announce monitor calibration webinar

Join Color Confidence as we present a FREE interactive webinar on Thursday 22nd July between 10.00am - 11.00am, on the importance of accurately calibrating your monitor, meaning you can watch and learn from the comfort of your own desk!

Are you frustrated by the images that you see on-screen not colour matching your actual shots?
Are you serious about improving the colour accuracy of your digital workflow?
Are you unsure how to calibrate and which solution may be right for you?
If the answer is yes, this webinar is definitely for you!

We explain why you should calibrate your monitor, show you how you do it and and take a look at a range of calibration solutions for every budget.

We discuss the importance of accurate monitor calibration
We demonstrate how you undertake monitor calibration using a range of industry leading soultions
We answer your questions in an interactive question and answer summary session
Attendees can take advantgae of some very special offers on the key calibration solutions
So register for this FREE webinar now!

But hurry, delegate space is limited, so book now to avoid disappointment.

ColourConfidence break out PChOOD range

Launched earlier in the year Birmingham-based colour management specialist, ColourConfidence, has announced the PChOOD range of monitor hoods are available now.

The PChOOD monitor hood range proves to be more than just a shade better, following its Spring launch

Birmingham, UK, 15th July 2010 - Europe's leading value added distributor into the colour management and digital imaging channels, Color Confidence, hail the launch of the PChOOD range of monitor hoods in Spring 2010, as one of their most successful product launches yet, with unprecedented post-launch customer interest, together with exceptional and growing sales through their expanding network of resellers and ColorStores. To learn more, visit: www.ColorConfidence.com/pchood

Photographers, designers and anyone interested in producing outstanding images are increasingly aware of the importance of accurate colour management, from capture through monitor to print. To ensure that the monitor stage of that workflow is as accurate as it possibly can be, the PChOOD range is an ideal solution, creating an optimum working environment for accurately viewing colours.

“The PChOOD range offers a definitive selection of monitor hoods which reduce glare and shield unwanted light from any monitor display and so improves on-screen colour accuracy” Comments Simon Prais, Technical Director Color Confidence “In addition, the PChOOD range offers numerous additional benefits including energy saving through reduced energy consumption .”

The complete PChOOD range offers a selection of monitor hood solutions in a variety of sizes and designs for both PC and Macintosh, including:

PChOOD Pro - A universal monitor hood, suitable for all LCD & CRT displays 15" - 26"
PC Laptop Hood - Portable flat-pack hoods in black, for laptops in various sizes (PC and Mac)
Mac Laptop Hood - Contemporary design, portable flat-pack, in matt silver effect to compliment Macintosh Laptops. In various sizes

The PChOOD range offers numerous benefits and features including:

Shield light from your monitor display, to provide optimum conditions for a colour accurate working environment
Allows you to set your display brightness lower and subsequently saves up to 40% of power consumption, which extends monitor life (and laptop power) and is great for the environment
Can help to reduce eye strain
Specially designed black velvet inner layer absorbs light and eliminates reflections
Removable access cover, for using a monitor calibrator such as ColorMunki, without removing the hood (on applicable models)

The PChOOD range is now in stock now and is available direct from www.ColourConfidence.com and our dealer network. dealer network.

Mamiya announce affordable pricing on DM22, 28 and 33 MFD systems

In a bid to rival that of studio-level DSLRs, Mamiya Digital Imaging have announced that the DM22, 28 and 33 MFD systems will be available at more affordable prices. The 22-megapixel DM22, for example is now listed at $9995/€6995.

Press release

Tokyo, New York, and Tel Aviv (PRWEB) July 14, 2010
Mamiya Digital Imaging today announced the first step in a global campaign to offer up-and-coming photographers creative freedom beyond their DSLR cameras. Following successful test marketing in the United States, Mamiya has announced that three of its popular medium format camera systems -- the Mamiya DM 22, DM28 and DM33 -- are now available worldwide at affordable prices.

Systems are based on a “Team Phase One” approach, which consists of technologies developed from Leaf, Mamiya and Phase One – companies that have decided to work together to offer the widest selection of choice to professional photographers. This approach achieves synergies in procurement, production, development, and service/support that help reduce costs and facilitate offering more affordable high quality digital camera solutions to customers.

The Mamiya DM 22 digital camera, for example, is available at a retail price as low as $9995/€6995. All systems feature the Mamiya 645DF camera body, proven digital back technology from Leaf Imaging, and Phase One Capture One software, the powerfully precise and flexible raw processing and image editing application. These camera systems are known for producing exceptional image quality, clarity and detail under many different conditions, and for offering a truly “eye-opening” shooting experience.
Mamiya customers also enjoy a wide range of lens choice -- more than 15 different lenses, including lightweight focal plane lenses and the new leaf shutter lenses designed in Germany by Schneider Kreuznach, which offer flash synchronization of up to 1/1,600 per second.

“We want to introduce the medium format ‘WOW’ sensation to more photographers, which is why we are offering equipment that’s affordable for up-and-coming pro shooters and passionate amateurs,” said Ziv Argov, marketing director for Mamiya. “Instead of purchasing a second DSLR, their new gear can introduce them to a new visual language that helps them realize an even more creative portfolio.”

“We offer proven, reliable technology, that’s designed and manufactured so that our customers are free to focus on capturing their visions,” said Mamiya president Toshio Midorikawa. “It’s not our cameras that take great pictures, it’s our customers who do."
“We are very enthused about the success of Mamiya DM systems in the United States,” said Jan Lederman, president of Mamiya America. “It is exciting that photographers worldwide now will have the opportunity to own such powerful digital camera systems at such affordable prices.”

Technical highlights include superior performance data, such as high resolution, richly detailed files up to 190MB 16bit TIFF per image. Each system features the largest medium format touch screen display (6x7cm) available for simple handling. The 645DF camera is designed to be the most reliable and durable medium format camera on the market.
Pricing and Availability The Mamiya DM 22, 28 and 33 medium format digital camera systems are available now. For detailed product specifications and where to buy, please visit http://www.mamiya.com About Mamiya Digital Imaging For almost 70 years, Mamiya has been a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in professional photographic cameras and lenses. Mamiya Digital Imaging is dedicated to the professional and advanced amateur markets.

Mamiya continues to be a pioneer by continually improving and refining the finest professional photographic products with state-of-art advancements such as superior apochromatic lens technology and practical, ergonomic camera design and function. For Mamiya it’s always been about one thing: the love of photography. A passion shared by enthusiastic owners of Mamiya cameras all over the world.

For more information visit www.mamiya.com.

Corel call for entries in Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge

Corel Corp, best known for its CorelDRAW, PaintShop Pro, and Corel Painter utilities, is calling for entries to its Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge. Corel is looking to showcase work made with its software and the contest is open in the US, UK, Canada and Germany. Deadline for participation is 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on August 31, 2010. Prizes valued at more than $25,000 are up fro grabs. For more information please see the press release below.
Press release

Ottawa, ON (Vocus) July 14, 2010
Corel’s Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge is looking to discover and showcase some of the extraordinary and inspiring work made in Corel software every day. Whether you’re someone who makes a living from your creations or you create art for the love of it, you’re invited to enter your best work created using Corel software! If you simply want to enjoy what others have created, just visit the site and vote on your favorites for a chance to win.
“With Corel’s Quest for the Best Creativity Challenge, we’re looking to discover and celebrate some of the extraordinary individuals who use Corel software in unique and inspiring ways,” said Nick Davies, Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing at Corel. “As we celebrate our 25th birthday, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the talent and skills of our community as we thank them for their loyalty and longstanding support.”
Enter for Your Chance to Win!
You are invited to participate in one of two ways:
1) Design your creation in one of Corel’s products and upload your entry to www.corelquestforthebest.com to have a chance to win one of the great prizes being awarded for the top 25 entries.
2) Visit www.corelquestforthebest.com to pick your favorite submissions. Just register and vote to enter the contest sweepstakes and have a chance to win one of 10 HP® Mini Netbooks drawn at random.
Don't delay! The contest is open in the US, UK, Canada and Germany. Deadline for participation is 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on August 31, 2010.
Exciting Prizes Valued at More than $25,000!
Corel’s Quest for the Best prizes include: an HP® Pavilion Elite 390t desktop computer, Wacom® tablets, Nikon® D700™ Digital SLR camera and Nikkor® lens, Nikon® COOLPIX® cameras, Apple® iPad™, Flip UltraHD™ Camcorder, HP® Mini Netbooks and Corel software packages, including CorelDRAW® Graphics Suite X5, Corel® Painter™ 11, Corel® PaintShop Photo® Pro X3 and Corel® VideoStudio® Pro X3.
To mark our 25th birthday and thank all of the customers who have supported us through the years, Corel will be launching a series of special promotions and activities through the remainder of 2010. Please stay tuned to www.corel.com/25 for more detail or follow us @corelsoftware on Twitter.
Contest participants can find free trial versions of the latest Corel creative products including CorelDRAW® Graphics Suite X5, Corel® Painter™ 11 and Corel® PaintShop Photo® Pro X3 at www.corel.com/freetrials.
For full contest details, please visit www.corelquestforthebest.com.

PhotoVoice add training workshops

PhotoVoice, the UK charity providing training for socially excluded groups, has announced a number of dates for workshops in September and November. For more details and to book your place, please see the press release below.

Press release

BOOKING NOW FOR PHOTOVOICE TRAINING WORKSHOPS, SEPTEMBER AND NOVEMBER 2010

Designing and running participatory photography projects

3 days: September 14, 15 & 17 (PVWT 006)
3 days: November 17, 18 & 19 (PVWT 009)

These three day workshops provides an overview of participatory photography methods and the key elements of designing, running and
facilitating a participatory photography project. It is aimed at those who want to gain a solid understanding of the processes involved in
working with participatory photography and is ideal for practitioners and professionals looking to embark on their own projects. Participants
will learn about the key aspects of participatory photography, considerations for designing projects, what is involved in running projects and
facilitation techniques. We focus on the key things you need to consider to design and deliver a participatory photography project, and
provide resources to games and activities that can be used in workshops.

Introduction to participatory photography methods
No photographic experience required
1 Day: September 22 2010 (PVWT 007)

This one day workshop provides an introduction to participatory photography for social change practitioners. It is aimed at those who do not
ordinarily work with photography and digital media and are keen to gain an overview of the processes, principles and key elements of
participatory photography methodology.

Introduction to participatory photography for photographers and visual practitioners

1 Day: November 10 2010 (PVTW008)

This one day workshop provides an introduction to participatory photography. It is aimed at those with visual backgrounds who already have
an understanding of working with photography and are keen to gain an overview of the processes, principles and key elements of
participatory photography methodology, with a focus on participation and facilitation.

Please visit the website for full details and to book your place.

Westcott announces new distribution partner JP Distribution in UK and Ireland

Well known in the USA for their affordable lighting modifiers and studio equipment, Westcott are now being distributed in the UK by Johnsons Photopia Limited (JP Distribution). For users who may not be aware, JP Distribution are the official distributor in the UK for Mamiya, Pocket Wizard and Billingham bags amongst others including, until only recently, rival Lastolite, so the addition of Westcott seems timely.

Westcott announces new distribution partner JP Distribution in UK and Ireland

TOLEDO, Oh. – June 15 2010 – The F.J. Westcott Company (Westcott) is proud to announce a new distribution partner in the UK and Ireland, Johnsons Photopia Limited (JP Distribution). Westcott believes with JP Distribution’s current product range, excellent customer service, aggressive marketing outreach and vast dealer base, they were a perfect fit for bringing both the core product line and new consumer based product line to the UK market.
JP Distribution will be carrying the full Westcott and Photo Basics product lines, giving dealers and customers in the UK and Ireland the ability to view, showcase and purchase the wide range of Westcott branded products. “We are looking forward to an exciting future with this new relationship,” said Kelly Mondora, Vice President at Westcott.

For more information, please visit www.johnsons-photopia.co.uk.

 

 

Digital Photographer magazine calls for entries in DPOTY 2010 competition

Digital Photographer magazine is calling for entries in its annual DPOTY (Digital Photographer of the Year) competition. From today, entrants can submit images in as many as six different categories, with the overall winner receiving a Samsung NX10 hybrid, three lenses and a flashgun kit. The winners of each of the six categories will receive a Samsung EX1 high-end digital compact camera. For more information please see the press release and link below.

 

The hugely popular Digital Photographer of the Year Awards returns for 2010 – this time with backing from photography giant, Samsung

Imagine Publishing and Samsung are joining forces to launch the fourth annual Digital Photography of the Year awards, with better prizes and categories than ever before. Fresh from celebrating over one million copy sales earlier this year, Digital Photographer magazine anticipates record a number of submissions for the competition in 2010, with the overall winner receiving a Samsung NX10, three lenses and a flashgun kit. Six category winners will each receive a Samsung EX1 camera.

Rosie Tanner, Editor of Digital Photographer, is brimming with expectation for DPOTY ’10: “The DPOTY awards offer digital photographers a fantastic platform to showcase their work across a wide range of categories. It’s an amazing opportunity for fresh talent to emerge and we can’t wait to celebrate new and undiscovered digital photographers. The fact that such a prestigious camera company like Samsung is supporting the awards is a huge compliment. Its support means the competition and prizes will be better than ever before.”

Since its launch back in 2007, the DPOTY awards has seen year-on-year success and is now widely recognised by the photography industry as one of the top photographic competitions of its kind. The judging panel for the 2010 awards features some of the country’s top photographic professionals including big names such as Guardian Picture Editor, Eamonn McCabe and pro photographer, William Cheung FRPS.

The call for entries opens on the 15 July, which coincides with the on-sale date of Digital Photographer issue 98. In contrast to previous years, the format of the awards for 2010 will see a brand new competition category launched in each issue of the magazine. There will be six photographic categories in total – each designed to push the creativity of photographers. The categories are:

The Big Picture – Landscapes

Strike a Pose – Portraits

Wild at Heart – Wildlife/nature

Location, Location – Travel

Capture the Action – Motion/action

Get Creative – Creative/image editing/HDR

Rosie Tanner added, “The categories we’ve picked this year are reflective of the creative capabilities of Samsung’s fantastic NX10 and EX1 cameras. There is definitely a category to suit every photographic taste, so we look forward to seeing a broad range of subject matter.”

Steve Mitchell, General Manager Marketing, Samsung Digital Imaging said: “Samsung is proud to be part of Digital Photographer of the Year 2010. We have a longstanding relationship with Digital Photographer magazine and we are particularly pleased to have been chosen by the team to be the main sponsor of DPOTY.

The Digital Photographer of the Year competition showcases some of the most exciting photographs every year and with the creative possibilities offered by the Samsung camera range it is a perfect partnership which will inspire any photographer. We are looking forward to judging and awarding the very best photography in this year’s competition.”

For all the details on how to enter, look out for Digital Photographer issue 98 on sale 15 July 2010 or head online to www.DPhotographer.co.uk.

Canon to sponsor The Times Young Photographer of the Year 2010 competition

Canon has announced today that it will sponsor The Times Young Photographer of the Year competition for second consecutive year.

UK and Ireland, 15th July 2010. Canon UK today announced that for the second consecutive year it is to sponsor The Times newspaper’s search for The Times Young Photographer of the Year.

Now in its 9th year, the competition seeks to find the country’s best young photographer. The eventual winner will secure a 6 month placement with The Times newspaper where they will be trained in the skills of a photojournalist. In addition to the placement the winner will also receive an award-winning EOS 5D Mark II camera body, EF 24-70 f/2.8 lens, EF 70-200 f/2.8 IS lens and a Canon 580EX II Speedlite flash. Each of the six finalists will also receive a year’s membership to the British Press Photographer’s Association.

Last year the competition was won by Matthew Lloyd who says of his experience at the newspaper “Working for The Times has been a fantastic experience. I’ve been allowed the freedom to do the job and shoot creatively whilst gaining invaluable support and feedback from the team there. My top tip for entrants this year is ask others to take a look at the photos you are thinking of entering and get as much experience as you can and try to understand the industry.”

The competition will be launched in The Times on 16th July and will run until 31st August 2010. During September, judging will commences and 6 finalists will be selected and set an assignment by Paul Sanders, Picture Editor of The Times.

The finalists will have their work displayed at Canon’s Pro Photo Solutions exhibition at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London on 26 and 27th October. The winner will be unveiled there in a reception hosted by the Editor of The Times, James Harding.

The judging panel will be co-chaired by Paul Sanders and Nick Millen from Canon Professional Imaging.

Paul Sanders, Picture Editor of The Times says: “Winning this competition has become one of the most prestigious prizes for young photographers; it has a proven pedigree of placing young talent in a position to fulfill their dreams. Each of the previous winners has gone on to launch very successful careers in news photography. With the continued support of Canon we are able to offer even greater support to the winner to establish themselves as professional photographers”.

Lee Bonniface, Country Director Canon Consumer Imaging, UK and Ireland said. “We were extremely impressed with the calibre of last year’s finalists and by the talent shown by the overall winner Matthew Lloyd. Canon UK is very proud to again be supporting the competition and helping to give a talented young photographer a solid start to their career”

For further details about the competition please visit:
www.timesonline.co.uk/youngphotographer

Sony unveils NEX-system camcorder with interchangeable lenses

Sony has announced the NEX-VG10E, the world's first consumer-orientated camcorder with APS-C size sensor and interchangeable lenses. The lens mount is the same as that of the company's NEX mirrorless cameras and is fully compatible with the three lenses launched with those models. It will be available at the end of September and, while the price has not been confirmed, it's expected to be in the region of €2000 / $2000 c/w the NEX 28-300mm f3.5/6.3 (35mm equivalent) zoom lens.
Press release:

SONY UNVEILS WORLD’S FIRST CONSUMER INTERCHANGEABLE LENS HD CAMCORDER

Handycam® NEX-VG10E captures cinematic Full HD movie and stereo sound

· 14.2 effective megapixel ExmorTM APS HD CMOS sensor (19.5 times larger than conventional camcorder) for stunning HD movies with beautiful background defocus
· Accepts E-mount and A-mount interchangeable lenses (using adaptor)
· High quality audio with Quad Capsule Spatial Array Stereo Microphone and external mic input
· 7.5cm (3 inch-type) Xtra Fine LCD and electronic viewfinder

Building on 25 years of continuous Handycam innovation, Sony introduces the NEX-VG10E – the world’s first consumer HD camcorder with interchangeable lenses. It’s also the first Handycam to feature an extra-large Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, allowing the creation of cinematic background defocus effects.

Targeting video enthusiasts and photographers, the NEX-VG10E opens up unprecedented artistic possibilities not achievable with conventional consumer video cameras.

Compatible with a choice of high quality E-mount lenses, it’s the first consumer camcorder that offers the same breadth of creative expression enjoyed by DSLR photographers. Alongside the three currently available E-mount lenses, users of the NEX-VG10E can experience a wide variety of A-mount DSLR optics used on α cameras by using the optional LA-EA1 mount adaptor. Picking from a choice of award-winning Sony G lenses, fixed-focal length Carl Zeiss portrait lenses and other models from macro to super-telephoto, videographers will have unprecedented freedom to explore an exciting world in movie creation.

At the heart of the NEX-VG10E is a 14.2 effective megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor that’s teamed with Sony’s powerful BIONZTM processor to capture very high resolution video and still images. Approximately 19.5 times bigger than the standard sensor found in other consumer camcorders, the APS-C sized imager also enables an extremely shallow depth of field. This allows videographers to achieve ‘cinematic’ results with beautiful background defocus (bokeh). In addition, the ability to capture DSLR-quality still images gives videographers extra shooting flexibility on assignment with less to carry.

Full HD 1920x1080 video images are captured in AVCHDTM format at up to the maximum 24 Mbps bit rate for superlative detail and clarity. Unlike many digital still cameras including DSLR that support HD video, there’s virtually no restriction on continuous shooting time. Just slip in your choice of either Memory Stick PRO DuoTM or SD media cards and capture Full HD video and JPEG still images for easy transfer into your existing PC storage and editing environment.

The NEX-VG10E comes supplied as standard with an image-stabilised E18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens that offers a powerful 11x optical zoom range. Because of its optimised design for video shooting, this high-quality E-mount lens offers smooth, ultra low noise autofocus and iris control. In-built Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation assures clearer video images when you’re shooting handheld. At wide angle settings, Active Mode enhances anti-shake performance even further, steadying jittery images even while walking. The lens also features a circular aperture for the creation of beautiful bokeh effects whether you’re shooting video or stills.

Reflecting the demands of serious videographers, sound quality matches the phenomenal imaging performance of the NEX-VG10E. The Quad Capsule Spatial Array Stereo Microphone uses advanced processing algorithms to combine signals from four separate omnidirectional microphone capsules. The result is exceptionally clear stereo audio with a highly directional response: this allows videographers to capture more sound from the subject they’re shooting, and fewer distracting sounds around them. There’s also a jack for adding an optional external stereo mic, plus a headphone jack for audio monitoring.

With a photo-realistic 921k dot resolution, the 7.5cm/3 inch-type Xtra Fine LCD features TruBlackTM technology for an exceptionally detailed, high contrast view of images and menu settings. The LCD is supplemented by a high-resolution (1152k dot) electronic viewfinder that assists easy framing and monitoring. The viewfinder helps the operator capture clear images in bright daylight and its angle can be easily adjusted for comfortable operation.

Despite its groundbreaking creative possibilities, the NEX-VG10E is compact, beautifully balanced and easy to handle, even for novice videographers. An intuitive jog dial and hotkeys make it easy to navigate camera menus and adjust shooting parameters. Videographers can also enjoy precise manual control over Iris, Shutter Speed, Gain and White Balance for professional results.

A range of official accessories includes the ECM-CG50 Shotgun Microphone that attaches to the camcorder’s accessory shoe. There’s also a choice of rechargeable battery options, including the NP-FV100 that provides power for up to 330 minutes of continuous HD shooting. A dedicated soft carrying case the LCS-VCD, is also available as an option.

Offered to customers as a free download, Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum 10 video editing software includes everything you need to produce spectacular HD movies. Powerful tools for video compositing, colour correction and sound mixing make it easy to achieve cinema-quality results in your own home studio. You can also upload movies to web, burn them to Blu-ray Disc™ or author DVDs with custom menus and graphics.

The Handycam NEX-VG10E interchangeable lenses Full HD camcorder will be available at the end of September 2010.

Nikon to launch mirror-less camera at Photokina?

According to this report from Bloomberg, Nikon is preparing a new mirror-less camera. If it's going to happen, expect to see it announced at this year's Photokina in Cologne in a couple of months time.

Can't take decent snaps without an expensive camera - think again

To prove it's all about the light, not how much the camera or lens costs, professional photographer Lee Morris over at Fstoppers.com has produced a rather slick video of how he conducted a photo-shoot using an Apple iPhone 3Gs in his studio. And, before detractors point out the lighting gear Morris has at his disposal, it's really not a valid argument. Besides, it's a great opportunity to see how a professional photographer lights his subject, even if does have to use hot lights instead of the more usual strobe.

For more information, including hi-res images from the photo shoot, head over to Fstoppers.

Mamiya offers $1000 trade-in for RZ33 MFDC

Photographers who purchase a new Mamiya RZ33 camera kit between July 2010 and the end of September 2010 can trade-in their existing RZ67 or RB67 and qualify for a $1000 credit towards the new camera.

Elmsford, NY (PRWEB) July 8, 2010 -- Mamiya announces today a new trade-in program created to make its new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit even more affordable. Designed specifically for existing owners of Mamiya RB67 and RZ67 film-based camera systems, this new trade-in program allows photographers to update their equipment to the latest digital version of the legendary Mamiya RZ system at an exceptionally reasonable price.

 

Mamiya Announces $1,000 Trade-in Program for the New RZ33 Medium Format Digital Camera
From July 2010 until September 30, 2010, photographers who purchase a new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit can trade in their existing RZ67 or RB67 camera body for a credit of $1,000 towards the purchase of their new Mamiya RZ33. There is a limit of one trade-in per RZ33 purchased.
“The positive response to the announcement of the new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit has been overwhelming among existing Mamiya RB and RZ owners,” says Mamiya Product Marketing Manager Mike Edwards. “Photographers are eager to update their equipment to the new digital RZ33, but still want to make good use of their previous RB or RZ67 camera body. Our new trade-in program gives these photographers the perfect way to do this, and makes transitioning to the new Mamiya RZ digital system even more affordable.”

About the Mamiya RZ33
The Mamiya RZ33 is a new large-sensor digital camera kit featuring a high performance 33 megapixel CCD sensor. This new camera advances the long adored Mamiya RZ line to a new level, bringing the famous ease-of-use and versatility of the Mamiya RZ camera system to the large-sensor digital arena. With no cables necessary, RZ33 users simply add their favorite razor sharp RZ lens and a CF card, and they are ready to produce large, detailed, and gorgeous images. The RZ33 leverages the large availability of lenses and accessories from the previous generations of the Mamiya RZ67 family, allowing photographers to utilize premium-level equipment they already own.

Pricing and Availability
The new Mamiya RZ33 digital camera kit, including Capture One and Leaf Capture software, will be available in the U.S. this month for $17,990. Photographers taking advantage of the $1,000 trade-in program will simply coordinate the trade-in with their authorized Mamiya Digital Dealer at the time of the new RZ33 transaction.

For more information visit http://www.mamiya.com.

NEC unwraps new 27-inch display for imaging pros

NEC Display Solutions has announced a new high-end monitor for color critical work using 10--bit P-IPS panel capable of exceeding the gamut of Adobe RGB. For more info including piece and availability, please see the press release below.

NEC Display Solutions defines the benchmark in the new 27” class of colour-critical desktop displays

New NEC SpectraView® Reference 271

London, 8 July 2010 – With the SpectraView® Reference 271, NEC Display Solutions is proud to unveil its first 27” wide-format LCD in its next generation line of Professional Colour Management Displays. The hardware-calibratable display features a state of the art 10-bit P-IPS* Panel able to reproduce 1.07 billion colours and 107% of Adobe RGB colour space for class leading colour accuracy. In addition, the impressive resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels makes it perfect for stringent pre-press and soft-proofing applications as well as demanding photographic image reproduction and video editing. The display comes with a 6 months pixel failure warranty starting from the date of purchase.

The high-end LCD possesses all the well established professional features and qualities common to the SpectraView® Reference series, including a 3D LUT** for separate colour space emulations, a 14-bit LUT to achieve an accurate colour calibration via gamma correction and the NEC Lab ‘Profiler’ software to create the 16-bit ICC profile as part of the colour workflow.

A large size desktop image, coming with a light protection hood, and the high resolution additionally make the NEC SpectraView® Reference 271 of particular interest for professional photographers, media designers and graphic designers. Effective features such as the picture-in-picture function for the simple, simultaneous display of numerous program windows, or the programmable USB for controlling multiple PC platforms makes content-rich and diverse working a breeze, boosting the user’s productivity. The Backlight Ageing Correction helps to ensure stable picture quality, constant white point and brightness over the display’s entire lifetime. The stand, which is height-adjustable by up to 150 mm, as well as the stunning P-IPS image quality guarantees comfortable working – even for extended periods. Users also benefit from the flexible connectivity options, which include the future-proof DisplayPort connection as well as two DVI-D ports.

“The SpectraView Reference 271 is a particular exciting development in format, technology, and design,” says Christopher Parker, Product Line Manager for Professional Displays at NEC Display Solutions. “We are convinced that our customers will be utterly won over through the combination of high-performance P-IPS image reproduction, powered by the NEC chassis electronics and visible with the amazing new high resolution format.”

*P-IPS = performance in-plane switching, **LUT = lookup table

Availability, price and warranty

The NEC SpectraView® Reference 271 is available as from now in black, at a price of £1,549.00 (inc. VAT). The package includes NEC’s SpectraView® Profiler 4.1 software on CD, light protection hood, an individual SpectraView® certification report, providing proof of the individual performance of each screen, a power cable, DisplayPort and DVI-D cable, comprehensive manual for the monitor and software, and CD containing the installation software and drivers. NEC Display Solutions Europe offers a three-year warranty including backlights (as well as a 5 years optional warranty) and a 6 months warranty against pixel failure from the date of purchase.

More information can be found here.

To buy from a respected UK retailer (ColourConfidence), please follow the link here.

For US purchases, please use the B&H link on the site, or follow the link here.

If you're a UK-based Mac user and intend to connect the display to your Mini-DisplayPort, you'll require a reliable adaptor. Please follow the link here.