Nikon announces new ME-1 stereo microphone

Along with the introduction of the new Nikon D5100 DSLR in London's Covent Garden, the company had a surprise announcement to make of the ME-1 unidirectional stereo microphone. As well as being dust and water resistant the ME1 has built-in shock mounting to reduce handling noise and the cable positioned in front of the articulated mount to reduce wear and tear. The ME-1 adopts a standard plug and can be used with any DSLR or compact camera using a 3.5mm connector. The ME-1 will be available at the end of the month at a price of £119.99 / 139.99 Euros.

To buy from Jessops (UK) at £119.95, please follow the link here. US readers can by from Amazon at $127.25 or Adorama at $129.00

Thank you for buying from this site's links.

Press release:

Total D-SLR movie package: Nikon announces first external microphone, the ME-1

London, 5th April 2011 – Nikon today announces the launch of its first external stereo microphone, the ME-1. Designed to amplify the movie capabilities of Nikon D-SLRs, this unidirectional microphone offers crisp, clear sound with no unwanted operational noise.

A serious addition to any discerning videographer’s kit, it raises the quality of audio recording, enabling movies shot with a D-SLR to sound as good as they look.

Raising the sound bar for D-SLRs
Nikon’s commitment to versatile movie recording takes another step forward with the ME-1. Developed to capture professional-quality stereo sound across diverse situations, it further enhances the sophistication of D-Movie – Nikon’s renowned D-SLR movie functionality – and offers a smart alternative to a camera’s built in microphone.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe, commented: “The ME-1 is a great new addition to Nikon’s continually expanding system for high-quality movie recording. Pros and enthusiasts alike will be able to record sound at a whole new level and add to the impact of their movies.”

Crystal-clear stereo sound
Designed with D-SLR users in mind, the ME-1 is equipped with a vibration reduction mechanism that suppresses unwanted operational noise which can come from autofocus. As a unidirectional microphone it provides precise targeted pick-up, allowing users to record exactly what they want to hear. Interference from external noise can be suppressed using the supplied windscreen and a low-cut filter switch offers extra control over low-frequency noise. The sensitivity of the microphone can also be adjusted through the camera menu to control surrounding noise or ambient sound.

Easily mounted on the camera’s hot shoe, the ME-1 is conveniently powered by the camera, while its intelligent ergonomic design enables comfortable handheld shooting. The short body allows easy access to the viewfinder and it boasts a handy cable-stop to keep the cable out of the way.

For use with all Nikon D-SLRs and COOLPIX cameras that have a 3.5 mm connector for external microphones, the ME-1 is supplied with a windscreen and soft case.

RRP: £119.99 / Euros 139.00
Sales start date: 21st April 2011 (TBC)

Additional Images

Nikon roll out D5100 DSLR

At a press conference today, Nikon has introduced the D5100, successor to the D5000. The new model features the same 16.2 MP CMOS sensor from the D7000 with sensitivity from ISO 100 to ISO 6,400 (maximum expansion to ISO 25600 at Hi 2) plus a new 'Night Vision' scene mode with ISO 102,400 option (B&W only). Other, high-end, features include continuous shooting up to 4fps, a 3-inch (921k dot) articulated screen and 1080p 30/25/24 fps video clips (max 20-minute recording). The D5100 will be available for £669.99 / Eur 777 inc. VAT (body only) or with the 18-55VR Kit lens at £779.99 / Eur 904 (inc. VAT) from the end of the month.

Press release:

The New Nikon D5100: Unleash Your Creativity

London, UK, 5 April 2011: Nikon introduces a new D-SLR to its line-up, the D5100, which is packed with features to make shooting stills or full HD movies more exciting than ever. The D5100 will give you a new creative perspective thanks to its improved Vari-angle screen, special effects mode and full (1080p) HD Movie.

Jordi Brinkman, Product Manager for Nikon Europe, says: “The D5100 is a great camera that allows you to express your artistic side through impressive images and movies. You can shoot with creative effects and unique angles, all at the level of superior image quality seen in the D7000!”

Unique viewing angles
The successor to the popular Nikon D5000, the D5100 features an improved Vari-angle LCD screen. The screen now opens horizontally for greater maneuverability, even when using a tripod. This freedom of movement adds unparalleled creativity when using Live View, allowing shooting from virtually any angle. You can also view pictures and movies in more detail on the high resolution (approximately 921k-dot), 7.5 cm (3-in.) wide-viewing angle monitor.

The Live View function is a simple and intuitive way of taking pictures and with the D5100’s dedicated switch it is even more straight-forward to operate. When using Auto mode you don’t even need to worry about the scene you are shooting, as Scene Auto Selector chooses the most appropriate settings to give you the best image.

Inspire your creativity
The D5100 has a newly introduced special effects mode to shoot amazingly unique pictures and full (1080p) HD movies. The range of seven effects include selective colour, where you select up to three colours to appear in the still or movie while other areas are monochrome, and miniature effect, which makes an image appear like a view of miniature scale. You can select which special effect to shoot in and they are directly accessible via the mode dial on the top of the camera.

Stunning HD movies
The Nikon D5100 makes it effortless to switch between shooting stills and movies as the D-Movie button is located next to the shutter release. This position gives a more stable grip on the camera when starting or stopping filming, or switching between shooting stills and movies. You can record all the action in full (1080p) HD at 24 / 25 / 30 fps whilst using the unique range of special effects and the AF-F will ensure your subject is always in focus. When you have finished you can use the in-camera-movie editing functions and it can all be viewed on HD television.

Nikon is also pleased to introduce an optional stereo microphone, the ME-1. Specifically designed for D-SLRs, it lets you record movie clips in high-quality stereo sound with no AF-noise.

Superior image quality
The D5100 makes it easy to achieve superior image quality, even in low-light conditions, with features inherited from the D7000. The DX-format 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, delivers rich colours and fine detail for both pictures and movies, whilst the powerful image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, maximizes the performance of the sensor for exceptional quality. Adding to this the D5100 has an expanded sensitivity range to further help capture brilliant images in challenging light conditions – the ISO ranges from 100 to 6400 and can be raised to ISO 25600 at Hi 2, for low-noise images that do not lose the details. Furthermore, there are a wide range of NIKKOR lenses which contribute to the D5100’s impressive image quality.

Nikon’s new High Dynamic Range (HDR) function and Active D-Lighting retain the detail when there are extreme contrasts in light. HDR takes two images at varying exposures in a single release, which are combined to produce a single image with a wider dynamic range.

Razor-sharp 11-point AutoFocus system:
The 11-point AF system offers fast and precise autofocus coverage across the frame.
Four AF-area modes, including 3D-tracking AF, keeps your main subject in focus even if the composition changes quickly in action scenes. This can be accompanied with continuous shooting up to 4 fps to really capture fast moving subjects.

Key features
•    Vari-angle LCD monitor: View life at a unique angle with high resolution 921k dot wide-viewing angle screen
•    Live View with AF modes: Live View is a straight-forward way of taking pictures and AF modes keep the subject in focus
•    Special effects mode: New to the D-SLR range, effects including selective colour and miniature effect for more creative expression when taking stills or movies
•    DX-format, 16.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor with EXPEED 2: Inherited from the D7000 for exceptional quality even in poor lighting conditions
•    High ISO (100-6400) extendable to Hi 2 (ISO 25600 equivalent): Keeps the detail with low noise in low-light situations
•    D-Movie: Full (1080p) HD movies can be taken at up to 30fps. Simple edits can be made in-camera and movies can be watched on HDTV using the HDMI connectivity
•    High dynamic range (HDR): Gives detailed shots of high-contrast scenes by combining two shots taken within a single shutter release
•    Active D-Lighting: Retains details in highlights and shadows for well balanced images, even if the subject is moving
•    Continuous shooting at 4fps: You will not miss that all important fast-moving action shot
•    Retouch menu: Gives a range of post editing effects in-camera including movie edits and image resizing
•    Picture controls: Lets you set the look and mood of your images before you shoot. Choose from six settings: Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Monochrome, Portrait and Landscape
•    Scene modes: Automatically adjusts camera settings, including Picture Controls and Active D-Lighting, for optimal results. Sample photos appear on the display to help select the right mode
•    Front and back infrared receivers: ensure maximum usability of the optional ML-L3 remote control when taking self portraits or close-ups
•    GPS compatible: Records the exact location of the camera when a picture is taken by using the optional GP-1 unit
•    Dual integrated dust reduction system: Image Sensor Cleaning and Airflow Control systems keep dust away from the camera’s image sensor for clear, spot-free images
•    Stereo sound: Designed specifically for D-SLRs, Nikon’s optional Stereo Microphone, ME-1, lets you record movie clips in high-quality stereo sound, with no AF noise. Comes with windscreen and soft case accessories

RRP:
Body Only - £669.99 / �
18-55VR Kit - £779.99 / �

Sales start date: 21st April 2011

 

Specifications

 

 

 

 

 

Additional material

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional images from press launch

Lowepro intro ILC Classic range

Camera bag maker Lowepro has introduced two bags in the new ILC Classic range and are purpose built to fit, protect and carry a variety of compact interchangeable lens (ILC), micro four-thirds and mirrorless cameras in a classic and lightweight design. We've no word as yet on pricing and availability.

Press release:

Lowepro announces the launch of a new shoulder bag series the ILC Classic; purpose built to address the growing number of photographers with compact interchangeable lens cameras.

As the world’s leading brand of protective gear for photography equipment Lowepro’s design team has introduced a classic, protective and lightweight ILC Classic series specifically designed to be affordable, convenient, well-constructed and attractive.
 
Tim Sadler, Category Manager for Lowepro, said: “We’ve seen camera enthusiasts eagerly respond to the new breed of compact interchangeable lens cameras, now we’re responding with a purpose-built design that fits and protects their hardware and their style.”
 
The ILC Classic shoulder bags are compact and streamlined in shape. Each size is crafted from classic black fabrics that resist moisture and abrasion and both sizes are finished with leather detail.
 
Lowepro’s fully padded and protective interior construction with soft, brushed lining helps safeguard lenses and LCD screens from dust and scratches. Extra features include a front storage pocket, SlipLock attachments, sturdy metal hardware and a removable and adjustable shoulder strap.
 
The ILC Classic 50 fits a compact camera with its attached kit lens and a spare memory card. The ILC Classic 100 fits the camera with lens, plus an additional lens and flash and two extra memory cards.
 
Both shoulder bags are available in Black. For more information about the ILC Classic series and other products, please visit here.

Dimensions

ILC CLASSIC 50
Interior: 7.5 x 9.5 x 15cm
Fits:Compact interchangeable lens (ILC), micro four-thirds or mirrorless camera (with attached 14-45mm lens); memory card.
ILC CLASSIC 100
Interior: 17 x 9.5 x 12cm
Fits: Compact interchangeable lens (ILC), micro four-thirds or mirrorless camera (with attached 14-45mm lens); extra lens and flash; 2 memory cards.

Linda McCartney: Life in Photographs

Taschen has released a retrospective of Linda McCartney's life as a photographer before and during her marriage to the Beatles' lead singer Paul. Available as a 264 page, £650 Collector's Edition, two £1,500 Art Editions (each limited to 125 copies, with a pigment print on Hahnemuehle paper and numbered and signed by Sir Paul McCartney) as well as a £44.99 trade (retail) copy, Linda McCartney: Life in Photographs will be available later in the month.

Press release:

The world through Linda's lens

A retrospective of Linda McCartney's life and photography

In 1966, during a brief stint as a receptionist for Town and Country magazine, Linda Eastman snagged a press pass to a very exclusive promotional event for the Rolling Stones aboard a yacht on the Hudson River; her fresh, candid photographs of the band were far superior to the formal shots made by the band's official photographer, and she was instantly on the way to making a name for herself as a top rock 'n' roll photographer. In May 1968, with her portrait of Eric Clapton, she entered the record books as the first female photographer to have her work featured on the cover of Rolling Stone. During her tenure as the leading photographer of the late 1960s' musical scene, she captured many of rock's most important musicians on film, including Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Simon & Garfunkel, The Who, The Doors, and the Grateful Dead. In 1967, Linda went to London to document the "Swinging Sixties," where she met Paul McCartney at the Bag 'O Nails club and subsequently photographed The Beatles during a launch event for the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album. Paul and Linda fell in love, and were married on March 12, 1969. For the next three decades, until her untimely death, she devoted herself to her family, vegetarianism, animal rights, and photography.

From her early rock 'n' roll portraits, through the final years of The Beatles, via touring with Wings to raising four children with Paul, Linda captured her whole world on film. Her shots range from spontaneous family pictures to studio sessions with Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson, as well as artists Willem de Kooning and Gilbert and George. Always unassuming and fresh, her work displays a warmth and a feeling for the precise moment that captures the essence of any subject. Whether photographing her children, celebrities, animals, or a fleeting moment of everyday life, she did so without pretension or artifice.

This retrospective volume—selected from her archive of over 200,000 images—is produced in close collaboration with Paul McCartney and their children. As such, it is a moving personal journal and a lasting testament to Linda's talent.

In addition to our Collector’s Edition limited to 750 copies, this book is also available in the following editions:
    •    Trade Edition
    •    Two Art Editions of 125 copies each with a photographic print

See the publisher's site to pre-order here.

Nikon Foundation Competition closes tonight

We've been supporting the Nikon Foundation Competition (see here for details), but as a reminder the deadline for entries closes tonight at 11:59 BST.

Adobe Demonstrates Photoshop For The iPad

Photoshop World is in full swing at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida and yesterday during their Keynote, Adobe demonstrated Photoshop for the iPad and it has layers, unlike Photoshop Elements for the iPad.

Layers are only found in professional applications and this demonstrates Adobe's commitment to this app and to the iPad, for photographers on the go.

There's no news yet on release dates or a full feature set but watch this space, as soon as we hear anything we'll let you know. We can't wait.

Cameras supporting SDHC UHS-I

We were sent a list of cameras that support the latest SDHC UHS-I standard some months ago by Kingston Technology, but it wasn't in a format we could easily post. But after checking the list today to confirm support for the Olympus XZ-1 we decided it might be useful for our readers. The list was correct as of 10th Feb, since then they'll likely be more new cameras that support the cards.

Canon

Casio

Nikon

Olympus

Panasonic

Pentax

Sanyo

Sony

Toshiba

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

Related posts


Kingston out 233x speed SDHC
Panasonic announce SDHC UHS-I cards

Adobe Flex for BlackBerry PlayBook: Tutorial

Research In Motion® (RIM®) has formed a great partnership with Adobe®, in which both are dedicated to providing developers with an exceptional development experience using the tools and technologies that you have grown to love. Supporting the community is one of the biggest priorities for both companies; for example, along with our BlackBerry® Developer Zone, Adobe has dedicated a page on their Developer Connection portal. Adobe evangelists have been quick to create content and tutorials, a great example of which can be found on the BlackBerry Developer Zone – Christophe Coenraets has created a tutorial on developing Flex for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet in 90 minutes.

If you are new to Adobe Flash and Adobe AIR development, getting started can be easily overwhelming. There are lots of tooling options and technology options to consider before beginning. The above article walks you through all of the necessary steps to get you set up and started. Christophe also shows how to get started developing your application using the new Flex Hero Mobile framework, which features many new components that are specifically targeted for mobile and touch screen devices. The tutorial also covers common tasks that most applications will need to perform, such as communicating with a web service and saving data locally.

This tutorial is an excellent first step into developing applications for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet with Adobe AIR. Afterwards, you should feel comfortable with the tools and deploying applications to the simulator so you can begin writing your own applications.

Don’t forget that the deadline for submitting your application to BlackBerry® App World™ is March 31st, 2011 in order to qualify for the free BlackBerry PlayBook tablet offer.

Read the Tutorial here