B&H Photo have the Schneider Optics iPro lenses in stock, at $99 for the x2 tele and $189 for the system (doesn't include the x2 tele lens), they're a compelling addition to the iPhone 4 and 4s. Please see our expert review at our sister-site, theappwhisperer.com.
Buy from B&H Photo (they ship worldwide).
After leaks via the rumor sites (presumably the soure is the affiliate retailers (not Amazon)) Canon has indeed announced their first mirroless EOS-M model as expected. Unfortunately, there is little in the way of innovation, though, like, Nikon they now have a platform to compete with the likes of Panasonic/Olympus and Sony, should they ever decide to do so.
All of the system can be pre-ordered at Amazon.
From this picture, the new mount adaptor appears not to have rubber sealing, suggesting no pro-level EOS-M model for sometime. Olympus recently upgraded theirs (MMF-3) for use with the introduction of OM-D and SHG lenses.
UPDATE: Images of the camera body (without lens attached) have surfaced on the net with what looks a 3:2 aspect ratio sensor (providing they're not photoshopped), suggesting Canon has chosen APS-C instead. If that is the case, it's almost certain to be the same sensor as found in the EOS T4i / 650D (though the camera will be without phase detection AF). Another image shows an 18-55mm EF-M lens, more-or-less confirming Canon has adopted the APS-C format for its mirrorless range.
Canon are set to launch a new mirrorless range next week, according to reports on the web, the first in the EOS M range is believed to be the camera shown above. The model shown features an interchangeable 22mm f/2 STM pancake lens. The STM lens uses a stepper motor for 'smoother' focusing operation (though by all accounts in its current form it's not noiseless, thus at odds with the intended video market). AF is performed by contrast detection (CD) sensors embedded in the CMOS imaging sensor, and was debuted in the recently announced EOS Rebel T4i / EOS 650D. As for for the size of the imaging sensor, we believe it will be smaller than APS-C, most likely a 4:3 aspect ratio 14.3 megapixel CMOS measuring 18.7x14mm, as used by the current G1 X. If so, the 22mm lens shown above would be the equivalent to a 40mm. At this moment in time it's all conjecture, however the new camera system is said to be revealed next week, most likely as early as Monday.
Via Digicame-info
I'm currently reviewing the new Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G and one of the first tasks with any new lens is to check focus accuracy and to test for focus-shift. This particular lens and camera, a Nikon D800, showed consistent front-focus using AF and the combination also revealed focus shift. Both are problematic, though focus shift is the more difficult to deal with (requires conscious effort). To my knowledge there are no Canon or Nikon cameras that make any attempt to compensate for the effects of focus shift (unlike some MF cameras I could mention).
I've used the Michael Tapes Design Lens Align Mk II to demonstrate the focus shift - it's a first class focus calibration tool which was originally designed to highlight issues with DSLRs and AF lenses but it's perfectly suited for this particular purpose. The following images are unretouched JPEGs displayed at 1:1 in Adobe Lightroom 4.
This photo, taken at maximum aperture and focused manually using Live View on the targets (left) at a distance of 1m, shows the zone of focus to be over +6 to -2. This is, arguably, front-focused but it's nothing like the obvious front focus when using AF (the same targets are clearly out-of-focus).
There's no real difference at f/2.0, as you might expect.
Neither is there much difference at f/2.8 save for an increase in DOF; the zone of focus extends from +12 to -4.
By f/4.0 things are starting to get interesting, as there's a shift rearwards (back-focus). The zone of focus covers +14 to -11
It is at f/5.6 that focus shift is most noticeable, with the zone of focus covering +16 to -20. In fairness, the DOF is masking the issue.
At f/8.0 the effects of the rearward focus shift are quite apparent, with the focus zone covering +24 to -36
At f/11 the depth of field masks the focus shift on this scale, although the Lens Align moniker on the scale is clearly out.
At the minimum the DOF extends rearwards so that the chart behind is practically in focus while the front of the ruler/scale is barely in.
These results aren't quite as severe as the focus shift on the Voigtlander 35mm f/1.4 CRF lens tested last month but there is clear evidence of focus shift - we can see the plane of focus move rearwards indicating back focus (under-correction of spherical aberration). This could negatively impact on sharpness with high-resolution cameras, such as the Nikon D800 but I wouldn't call it 'severe', as other internet sites have, as it's mainly masked by DOF. I suspect one of those sites were seeing the effects of focus-inaccuracy rather than focus shift.
In all other respects, the lens performs well. I'll have more to say in a rolling review.
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G can be bought from Amazon in exchange for $699.
Olympus have released a firmware update for the OM-D E-M5.
The update will be available on the OIMC website from today.
Compared to the firmware version 1.1 the new version 1.2 has following improvements:
• Improved sleep recovery operation
• AF target is indicated while using C-AF+TR in sequential shooting mode L
• M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-50mm 1:3.5-6.3 underwater support has been added when using underwater macro or underwater wide mode the lens will move automatically in tele or wide setting
Bowens, the UK lighting manufacturer, has announced a new daylight only LED panel for videographers (and stills photographers).The 30x30cm panel provides 4200 Lux of high quality, brilliant 5600°K daylight and retails at £714.00 (inc. VAT). There's no word on availability and the Limelite website is showing the panels and accessories as currently 'out-of-stock'.
Bowens’ Limelite launches new ‘three times brighter’ LED panel for videographers
Bowens has launched Mosaic Daylight - a new high specification, lightweight LED panel for both studio and location video lighting and photography.
The company, which is marketing the unit under its new Limelite videography subdivision, says the panel is capable of producing output three times brighter than more expensive lights of similar size.
The rugged 30x30cm panel provides 4200 Lux of high quality, brilliant 5600°K daylight and retails at £714.00 (inc. VAT).
Robert Cook, Bowens marketing director said: “This new panel with its multiple power, control, mounting and usage options, together with the renowned Bowens build quality, is one of the most versatile, reliable and value for money LED panels on the market. It features 576 ultra-bright LEDs, dimmable from 100-0% - providing output around three times as bright as more expensive, similar-sized lights. The difference can be clearly seen in the amount of usable light projected over greater distances.
The Mosaic, with its mains power and industry standard V-lock battery operation available out of the box is ready to go when you are – anytime and anywhere.
The unique intuitive onboard digital control panel with its bright, clear digital display makes operating the Mosaic quick and easy and with full DMX ‘in and out’ control, remote functionality is equally simple.”
He added: “LED panels are traditionally seen as video lighting but the new Mosaic Daylight features a unique f/stop mode which converts the display to show light output in f/stops – making this panel equally practical for photographers.”
MOSAIC FEATURES:
• Compact, lightweight, 30x30cm daylight LED panel.
• Strong metal construction designed to withstand professional handling.
• Ultra-bright 576 LED configuration provides 4200Lux at 1m.
• Stable 5600K daylight output to +/- 200K.
• Bright LED control display provides clear indication of light output and DMX settings.
• Option to display output in numeric increments of f-stop.
• RJ45 DMX in and out on-board as standard.
• Kit includes V-mount battery adaptor plus multi-voltage AC mains adaptor.
• Optional Anton Bauer battery adaptor available.
• Mounts to any 5/8" support devices including stands, booms and HiGlide fittings.
• 2 and 4-panel mounting kits available for building larger banks of light.
* A complete range of accessories including barn doors, colour control filters and battery mounts is also available for the Mosaic. And UK, Euro and USA power cables are available separately to allow videographers and photographers to use the Mosaic Daylight LED panel anywhere in the world.
The new LED panel is available from video and photographic dealers. More information is available on the Limelite website at www.limelite.uk.com
Lexar has announced that it will support the XQD™ memory card specification for compatibility with Nikon D4 and future XQD-based camera models. The first cards are expected to be available in the third quarter of 2012.
Apart from the obvious adavantages of increased data transfer, this design is a significant step forward from the delicate pin-connector system used on CF cards (and readers).
Lexar Announces Support for XQD Memory Card Specification
Lexar XQD Memory Cards to be Compatible with Nikon D4 and Future XQD-based Camera Models
Fremont, CA, 11 July, 2012 – Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory products, today announced its support of the XQD™ memory card specification for compatibility with Nikon D4 and future XQD-based camera models. Expected to be available in the third quarter of 2012, Lexar® XQD memory cards will offer high-speed performance in a range of capacities to effectively capture and store high-quality images, 1080p full high-definition (HD) video, and 3D video content.
“By collaborating with Lexar, we’re reinforcing the fact that the XQD specification represents one of the futures of high-performance memory cards,” said Nobuaki Sasagaki, General Manager of marketing department, Imaging Company, Nikon Corporation. “Our cooperation efforts demonstrate the vision shared by Nikon and Lexar to continue advancing the photography and imaging market with innovative technology and extremely high performance.”
“We are committed to offering innovative and industry-leading photography solutions, which is why we’re working with Nikon to offer and co-market XQD memory cards. We view the XQD standard as one of the most logical ways to increase interface speed beyond that of existing CompactFlash technology with the capability of offering performance up to 5Gb per second, in time,” said Wes Brewer, vice president of products and technology, Lexar. “This collaboration provides assured compatibility with Lexar XQD memory cards and Nikon D4 and makes this technology available to the entire photo industry.”
XQD memory cards are based on the PCI Express® specification, which offers 2.5Gb per second performance today with plans for 5Gb per second performance in the future.
Your chance to ‘drop in’ on the new Canon EOS-1D X
Calumet is offering photographers a unique opportunity to ‘test drive’ the new Canon EOS-1D X, dubbed ‘the next generation camera for professionals’.
The photographic retailer has scheduled a series of special ‘Drop In’ and ‘Mentor Me’ days nationwide during July and August.
Explained Sian Hamer, Calumet marketing executive: “This is a chance for photographers to book a free and bespoke thirty minute session with a Canon expert to get hands on with this flagship Canon DSLR for professionals. At ‘Drop In’ days photographers can get expert advice on the 1D X with its 18.1 MP full-frame CMOS sensor; 12 frames per second shooting capability; high resolution solution’ in the darkest conditions and an Ethernet port for fast image transfer.”
She added: “ The ‘Mentor Me’ programme is the option photographers can choose if they are seeking help and advice with any product in the Canon portfolio and looking to improve their overall levels of skill using Canon equipment generally.”
‘Drop In’ and ‘Mentor Me’ days: summer schedule
July 23: Calumet Drummond Street, London (1D X Drop In day)
July 24: Drummond Street (Mentor Me day)
July 25: Calumet Bristol: (1D X & Mentor Me day)
July 26: Calumet Manchester (1D X Drop In day)
July 27: Calumet Manchester (Mentor Me day)
July 30: Calumet Birmingham (1D X Drop In day)
July 31: Calumet Birmingham (Mentor Me day)
August 1: Calumet Edinburgh (1D X & Mentor Me day)
August 2: Calumet Glasgow (1D X & Mentor Me day)
August 3: Calumet Belfast (1D X & Mentor Me day)
Interested photographers can reserve their 1-2-1 appointments with a Canon specialist at any of these events by registering at www.calumetphoto.co.uk/eng/pages/canonevents.cfm
[Update] -The general consensus is that the OM-D E-M5 uses a Sony made sensor, and that is interesting for a number of reasons. When I attended the launch of the Pen E-P3 in Vienna, Austria the rumor beforehand was that sensor was made by a rival to Panasonic, but when it was subsequently announced at 12-megapixel, everyone (me included) assumed the sensor was from the same source. But what if it wasn't? And what if the sensor used a four-colour filter array; R, Gr, B and Gb (emerald)? Who might have made that?
At first I discounted reports that the Olympus OM-D E-M5 carried a Sony made sensor, simply because it requires a huge investment to fabricate a new format like this for a single camera manufacturer, let alone a single model. But the Japan based site, DC Watch are reporting the comments made about Sony as the fab-maker by the Olympus President were directed towards the camera and not a microscope, which was apparently the subject being discussed at that time. Sony is a supplier of sensors for the maker's digital compact cameras, as well as their microscopes it seems, but we're still really none the wiser concerning the origins of the sensor in the OM-D EM-5. A spokesperson for Olympus UK declined to comment.
Sigma UK has today announced the intriguing 46MP DP2 high-end compact will be available from the 12th July at just £799 inc VAT . The sensor is practically the same unit found on the SD-1 DSLR which when first announced retailed at around £6,200. (inc VAT)
Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd is pleased to announce that the new SIGMA DP2 Merrill will be available in the UK from 12th July with a suggested retail price of £799.99. This high image quality compact digital camera features a 46 megapixel (4800×3200×3 layers) Foveon X3 direct image sensor. The full-colour Foveon X3 direct image sensor ensures outstanding resolution and natural rendering with rich gradation as well as a three-dimensional feel. A focus ring and custom Quick Set (QS) mode also improve the user interface.
46 megapixel, 23.5×15.7mm full-colour Foveon X3 Merrill sensor
The 23.5×15.7mm full-colour Foveon X3 direct image sensor featured in the SIGMA DP2 Merrill, incorporates 46 effective megapixels (4,800×3,200×3 layers) and 44 recording megapixels (4,704×3,136×3 layers). The Foveon X3 direct image sensor captures all primary RGB colours at each and every pixel location with 3 layers, ensuring the capture of full and complete colour. Since colour moiré is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not required, meaning light and colour are captured with a three-dimensional feel.
Dual TRUE II image processing engine
The dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II” image processing engine dedicated to Foveon X3 direct image sensors improves the processing speed and overall quality of the final image. By incorporating two TRUE II processors, Sigma’s unique image-processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones as well as a three-dimensional feel.
Exclusively designed high performance 30mm F2.8 lens
The high-performance 30mm F2.8 lens has the equivalent angle of view as a 45mm (35mm equivalent focal length) lens and has been designed exclusively for the SIGMA DP2 Merrill to maximise the sensor performance. A glass mold aspherical lens and three high refractive index lenses provide excellent correction for all types of aberrations. The superior telecentric optical design improves image quality throughout the frame by passing on information about subjects to the sensor. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting, ensuring sharp, high contrast image quality even under severe conditions such as taking photos against or towards the sun.
Advanced User Interface
The custom quick set menu and the metallic command dial are incorporated to improve usability. The diaphragm, shutter speed and menu can be changed quickly using the command dial. The Quick Set (QS) menu which consists of the most commonly used functions can be easily displayed by pressing the QS button. It allows photographers to change the menu content and the order depending on their preferences.
Capable of 7 frames continuous shooting
A large volume buffer memory enables the camera to capture up to 7 RAW images per sequence in continuous shooting mode. Using the high speed data transfer and processing, the SIGMA DP2 Merrill features a continuous shooting speed of up to 4 frames per second. In addition, depending on the situation, it is possible to capture up to 5 frames per second and up to 14 images per sequence in continuous shooting mode in Medium and Low image quality mode.
Easy to use autofocus
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill features a “9 point select mode” which can select the desired focusing point from 9 different frames and “Free move mode” which can move the desired point as you like. In addition, it is possible to select the size of the focus frame from three types; Spot, Regular and Large. The new AF+MF mode adjusts the focus manually after verifying the AF by rotating the focus ring.
Manual Focus
Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not desired. It is possible to use the focus ring for focusing just like an SLR camera. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.
RAW+JPEG format recording
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill features a RAW data recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality captured through the direct image sensor, plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format provides pure data for high-resolution images, and uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the camera keeps brightness and colour data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. When the image is processed in SIGMA Photo Pro, it will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality. It is also possible to record RAW data and JPEG data simultaneously to provide more convenience.
SIGMA Photo Pro (supplied)
The supplied image processing software, “SIGMA Photo Pro”, converts RAW data quickly and easily. It renders the full, 46 megapixel data. While looking at the captured images, it is possible to achieve the desired photographic expression by moving the sliders. It incorporates functions such as a loupe, exposure picker, print, JPEG conversion, and batch white balance settings, highlight correction, noise reduction and aberration correction mode.
Portable compact and lightweight body
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill has compact dimensions of 121.5mm (W) × 66.7mm (H) × 59.2mm (D), and weighs just 330g. The supplied neck strap provides perfect mobility for candid photography.
SD card
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill adopts the SD Card (SDXC compatible) which is compact and easy to carry.
Large, highly visible 3.0” TFT colour LCD Monitor
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill features a 3.0 inch TFT colour monitor which ensures great visibility even outside in the daytime. This approximately 920,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to capture detail and to check focusing and composition.
Hot Shoe
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as SIGMA electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-610 DG Super (optional) and EF-610 DG ST (optional).
Dedicated lens hood
The dedicated bayonet lens hood (LH2-01) can be attached to block out extraneous light. Attaching the optional Close-up Lens AML-2 and dedicated Sigma’s DG filters to the camera body extend the shooting range.
* Lens hood, Close-up and DG filters are sold separately
Movie Mode
Movies can be recorded with VGA (640×480) size. The number of shooting frames per second is 30 frames.
[Accessories]
LH2-01 Lens Hood
The dedicated bayonet lens hood (LH2-01) can be attached to block out extraneous light.
VF-21 Viewfinder
This precision-made optical viewfinder mounts on the camera's hot shoe. It allows framing of the image without using the LCD monitor.
EF-140 DG Electronic Flash
A compact flashgun designed exclusively for the DP series cameras and featuring a Guide Number of 14. This flashgun extends the camera’s photographic possibilities with such features as fill-in flash and full-flash for night photography.
AML-2 Close-up Lens
When this close-up lens is attached to the camera, it enables close-up photography. The exclusive design ensures superior image quality.
SAC-5 AC Adapter
when using your camera for an extended period of time or connecting the camera to a computer. AC Adapter SAC-5 is used together with DC connector DC-11. DC connector DC-11 is supplied with AC Adapter SAC-5.
Canon has unexpectedly announced new version2 firmware for the EOS 7D bringing with it a host of new features and benefits to the camera. The new firmware, available in August this year adds, amongst other benefits, GPS compatibility, a new maximum Auto ISO (up to ISO6440) and manual audio level adjustment for movies. The EOS 7D was released in 2009 and the arrival of the new firmware suggests Canon doesn't have a replacement model ready, which was rumored to be released in time for this year's Photokina in the Autumn.
Enhanced with you in mind – Canon adds a range of new features to the EOS 7D
United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 28th June 2012 – Canon UK & Ireland today enhances the EOS 7D with firmware v2, adding a range of new features for enthusiasts looking to push the limits of their photography. Building on the camera’s high speed, advanced handling and creative versatility, the new firmware provides photographers with a host of new benefits including higher maximum RAW burst rate, in-camera editing functions, user-definable Auto ISO and support for Canon’s latest GPS Receiver, GP-E2.
Originally launched in 2009, the EOS 7D was carefully developed based on the feedback from thousands of photographers from across the globe. Offering the perfect combination of outstanding image quality and exceptional versatility across a range of photography styles, even today it is still considered to be one of the best APS-C cameras on the market. When developing the new firmware Canon followed a similar approach, gaining direct user feedback to bring the EOS 7D up to date with enhanced performance and a greater range of shooting capabilities and creative functionality.
Enhanced RAW performance
With an 18 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, Dual “DIGIC 4” processors and an extended maximum ISO of 12,800, the EOS 7D offers fast, high-quality shooting at speeds of up to 8 frames per second. Thanks to the new firmware which adds powerful memory management algorithms taken from Canon’s flagship EOS-1 series, photographers will now be able to enjoy greater flexibility in continuous shooting, with the maximum RAW buffer now extended to a new high of 25 RAW files or 130 JPEGs. Combining with the camera’s high 18MP resolution and 14-bit image processing, this will allow photographers to capture the decisive moment with rich detailed images.
In-camera image editing and rating
A range of newly-added editing functions also gives photographers more control over how images look, allowing post-production to begin in-camera. Photographers can now process their RAW files and correct artifacts such as peripheral illumination, distortion and chromatic aberration. Additionally, adjustments to white balance, sharpness and Picture Style, as well as a host of other parameters, can now also be made immediately after shooting, with the results saved as new JPEG files. JPEGs can also be instantly resized, without the need for a PC or Mac.
Photographers can now easily filter large volumes of pictures on their way back from a shoot using an image rating facility. Image rating data is stored in each file’s metadata, which can be read by a range of editing applications, including Canon Digital Photo Professional, and other industry software such as Apple Aperture, Adobe Lightroom and Bridge.
Extra control in stills and movies
The EOS 7D’s new firmware provides extended versatility across both stills and movies. Newly-added control of Auto ISO enables photographers to limit the maximum ISO speed to any point within the native ISO 400-6,400 range. Offering greater control over exposure, this will enable photographers to customize the maximum automatic ISO speed to suit their personal preferences, or to adjust parameters in different situations to meet specific creative goals.
Improved audio functionality in movie mode also provides aspiring videographers with greater control while shooting videos. Users can complement the camera’s Full HD (1920x1080p) movie footage with 16-bit digital stereo sound, sampled at broadcast-quality 48KHz, and new manual control of audio levels allows users to choose from 64 sound levels. A digital wind-cut filter also reduces noise made by movement of air around the microphone, ensuring sound is clear and free from peripheral interference.
Track your travels with GPS compatibility
Firmware v2 also provides added capacity for users to track the location of their images with new support for the GPS Receiver GP-E2 – Canon’s latest high-performance GPS unit. The GP-E2 is attached securely to the hotshoe, and connected to the camera via a cable, making it easy for EOS 7D photographers to geo-tag photos with longitude, latitude and altitude data as well as the direction in which the shot was taken – adding the information to the EXIF file of the image . A GPS Logger tracks movements by downloading GPS data at regular intervals, and compatibility with Google Maps means users can easily view their route in Canon’s free Map Utility software.
Canon EOS 7D firmware v2 – new features:
• Improved maximum burst for RAW images (up to 25)
• In-camera RAW image editing
• In-camera Image Rating
• In-camera JPEG resizing
• Maximum Auto ISO setting (ISO 400-6400)
• Manual audio level adjustment in movie recording
• GPS compatibility
• File name customisation
• Time zone settings
• Faster scrolling of magnified images
• Quick control screen during playback
Canon EOS 7D – Key features:
• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Up to 8fps shooting
• ISO range up to 12800
• Approx. 100% Viewfinder
• 19 cross-type AF points
• iFCL metering system
• Dual "DIGIC 4" processing
• Full HD movie recording
• Integrated Speedlite Transmitter
• 3” Clear View II LCD
• Magnesium alloy body with environmental protection
Pricing and Availability
The v2 firmware for the EOS 7D will be available to download from August 2012.
The EOS 7D + EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM is available now, priced at £2899.99/Eur3459.99 RRP incl. VAT.
The EOS 7D + EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM is available now, priced at £2399.99/Eur2699.99 RRP incl. VAT.
The EOS 7D + EF-S 18-135 f/3.5-5.6 IS is available now, priced at £1999.99/Eur2299.99 RRP incl. VAT.
The EOS 7D body is available now, priced at £1699.99/Eur1899.99 RRP incl. VAT.
Fuji has purportedly announced a XF14mm (21mm equiv.) f/2.8 and an XF18-55mm (28-85mm equiv.) f/2.8-4 zoom for the X-Pro1. Meanwhile the company has also outlined plans to introduce five further lenses for the camera in 2013;
56(85)mm f/1.4
27(41)mm f/2.8 'pancake'
23(35)mm f/1.4
55-200(85-300)mm f/3.5-4.8 OIS
10-24(15-35)mm f/4
No prices or availability has been mentioned at this time, we're still awaiting official confirmation (but this seems to be the way of doing things now).
Canon's CPN site is saying the new EOS-1DX and recently announced 24/28mm f/2.8 IS USM lenses are now shipping to pro-dealers. In the UK, that includes both Jessops and WEX (WarehouseExpress). Both are showing the cameras as pre-orders. Jacobs are still listed on CPN surprisingly, after news of going into receivership - perhaps some sites are still trading.
PENTAX UNVEILS MEET BRITAIN
Sarah Harding and Reggie Yates participate in a unique portrait of Britain in 2012
To celebrate the launch of the new PENTAX K-30 DSLR camera, PENTAX RICOH IMAGING UK LIMITED has today launched Meet Britain, a nationwide competition asking members of the public to submit images of the things they feel make Britain great.
The campaign is being spearheaded by singer and actress Sarah Harding and DJ and TV presenter Reggie Yates who will each create a set of images, which will provide a unique insight into the people and places that make Britain special to them.
PENTAX are also inviting members of the public to get involved by submitting photographs of the things they feel make Britain iconic. Entrants can submit images across five different categories:
-Celebrations
-Summer Holidays
-Friends and Family
-Great British Culture
-Great British Outdoors
The best images will then be shortlisted and will feature in an exhibition which will be open to the public in September. One winner from each category will take home a PENTAX K-30 camera and one overall winner will take home the £1,000 prize fund.
Discussing the campaign, Sarah Harding said; “I’m really proud of my British roots, so to be an ambassador for Pentax and to fly the flag for the Meet Britain campaign is really exciting. There are so many world-class events taking place in the UK this summer, from music festivals to major sporting occasions – there is something for everyone to capture on camera.”
Reggie Yates added; “Photography is one of my favourite hobbies so I am delighted to be involved in the Meet Britain campaign. I can’t wait to see how creative the British public is, and it gives me a chance to indulge in one of my passions!”
The competition will be open to members of the public until 3rd September 2012 and people can submit their photographs via the Meet Britain app on the PENTAX UK Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pentaxuk
In honour of Great Britain in 2012, PENTAX has created two coloured versions of the new K-30 camera – a Royal blue and a white version, as well as the more traditional black.
The PENTAX K-30 is a mid-level digital SLR camera developed to help SLR beginners capture high-quality images with ease. Packed in a compact, weather-resistant, dustproof and lightweight body, the PENTAX K-30 combines the size of an entry-level DSLR with features more commonly found in advanced models. These features include a 16 megapixel sensor, glass prism finder with nearly 100% field of view, high-speed shooting at six images per second, a 1/6000 second high shutter speed, and a full-HD movie function. Together with a comfortable grip and a sporty, functional design, the K-30 guarantees a dependable, flawless performance every time.
After releasing a vague press release last week concerning their intentions to introduce a new range of lenses for Micro Four Third Format cameras, the company has been under pressure to clarify some of the details. However, while admitting some of the technical details have yet to be finalised the company has confirmed the first lens to be release will be the SA 14mm f/2.0 (shown above) and that will it have auto-focus (as well as a the necessary CPU), cost under 1500 Euros, and will be manufactured in Germany. The new lens will not be available before the first quarter of 2013.
Dear journalists, photographers and bloggers,
First of all, we’d like to thank you for your strong interest in our new lens line. Please bear with us, as the full scope of technical details is not available yet. We’ve received a wealth of questions and will try to answer every one of them. Below you’ll find answers to your questions and other inquiries we received:
What are the basic parameters of the lens that has been announced? The focal length is 14 millimeters with a 2.0 aperture. It will have precise autofocus.
Will there be additional lenses? Yes, other models are in planning but we’re not able to announce any details at this time.
Will there be zoom optics? Initially, there are no plans for zoom optics but only for fixed focal lengths.
What cameras does the lens fit? The lens fits all Panasonic and Olympus m43 cameras. It also fits some Leica models when using an adapter provided by the manufacturer. Contrary to some reports in international forums and on photo websites, an adaptation to Sony’s E-Mount is not planned.
Are the lenses actually manufactured in Germany? Yes, all lenses are manufactured, assembled and tested in Bad Kreuznach, Germany.
Will the Super-Angulon 14 mm have an internal CPU? Yes, the lens has an integrated CPU.
When will the lenses be available? Contrary to some reports on the internet, they will not be available on the market before the first quarter of 2013.
When will additional and more detailed information be available? During its annual press talk, Schneider-Kreuznach announced its plans of entering the market for system cameras. We’re honestly surprised by the huge response and will present more detailed information on the 14 mm lens at photokina 2012. Please bear with us until then.
What group does the lens target and what will be the selling price? The lenses are manufactured in Germany at Schneider-Kreuznach’s traditional level of quality and target serious amateur photographers. The main focus is on outstanding quality. The price will be below 1,500 euros, according to current planning.
When will the add-on lenses for Apple’s iPhone be launched? This is another project that is still in development. A date for the market launch has not been set yet.
Thank you very much for the large number of questions and suggestions. We trust that we’ve been able to shed some light on the major items of interest and look forward to continuing our dialog with you.
Amazon Japan are showing three Canon EOS-1 DX bodies for sale via their resellers (or marketplace), priced from Yen 630,570 about USD $7,893.175. Shipping fees and tax and import duties will all be extra if you're looking to get one ahead of the rest, but at least it appears the camera is finally on its way to retailers. There's no release date from Canon UK, as far as I'm aware.
Pro dealer Calumet is running a Metering & Exposure course at their Drummond street store with photographer and author John Clements, one of the nicest and most knowledgeable guys in the photo-industry (disclaimer, I'm pleased to say John is a personal friend).
The one day course costs £69 GBP inc VAT. To register please follow the link here.
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