Monday, July 30, 2007

FujiFilm Announces New Colorful Digicams

Fujifilm has taken the wraps off five new digital cameras, ranging from entry level FinePix snappers and the 7.2 megapixel style-oriented FinePix Z10fd to the 8 megapixel FinePix S8000fd superzoom and the 12 megapixel F50fd.

First up, the Fujifilm FinePix Z10fd aims at style-conscious buyers, offering 7.2 megapixel resolution, 2.6-inch LCD display, 54 MB of internal memory (also SD/SDHC/xD card storage), and a sleek profile available in five fashion-friendly colors (black, blue, green, orange, and pink). The Z10fd features face detection technology which can identify and adjust sensitivity for up to 10 faces in a frame (the camera can manage up to ISO 1600). The Z10fd also offers an intelligent flash technology which adjusts its intensity based on available lighting, and can take two shots in rapid-fire fashion (one with flash, one without) so users can choose which image looks best. The most buzz-worthy feature of the Z10fd is probably a new Blog mode, which provides for in-camera resizing images down to 640 by 480 (or 320 by 240) for easy posting to blogs, online auction sites, and other Internet services. The Z10fd should ship in September for $199.95; Fujifilm is so psyched about its new "Z-Lifestyle" products its launching a new Web site to promote them as of August 1.

Next up, FujiFilm is offering first-time digital camera buyers the new 9 megapixel FinePix A920 and the 8.2 megapixel FinePix F480. Each camera offers a 2.7-inch LCD display, a 4× optical zoom, and image stabilization technology to cut back on shots blurred by hand-shake or other vibration; both cameras can also record QVGA resolution video at 30 frames per second with audio. The A920 offers s streamlined, icon-based interface with one-touch access to pre-configured scene modes, and stores images to SD/SDHC/xD cards, while the F480 only uses xD storage. Both cameras should debut in September, with the F480 carrying a suggested price of $179.95, and the A920 going for $199.95.

Folks looking for long-zoom capabilities might check out the FinePix S8000fd, an SLR-styled camera offering 8 megapixel resolution, 2.5-inch LCD display, and a 27mm–486mm equivalent lens and an 18× wide optical zoom. The S8000fd combines both mechanical and digital image stabilization, and the camera also sports Fujifilm's face detection technology and intelligent flash. And, in keeping with its SLR appearance, it also offers access to a plethora of settings, full manual controls, and multiple burst modes—and sports sensitivities down to ISO 6400 at half resolution. Expect to see the S8000fd in September for $399.95.

Finally, at the top end, the new FinePix F50fd is an option for users looking for some of the high-end features of the S800fd in a less photo nerd-compatible package. The F50fd offers a 12 megapixel resolution, a 3× optical zoom, and a 2.7-inch LCD display with Fujifilm's dual image stabilization (mechanical and digital), ISO sensitivity down to 6400, and "Face Detection 2.0" technology which can handle profiles and sports automatic red-eye removal. The F50fd also sports that auto-resizing Blog mode, stores images to SD/SDHC/xD media, and can be used underwater with an optional waterproof case. Expect it in September for $299.95.
Provided by Digital Trends News

New 8MP i85 Digicam From Samsung

Samsung Cameras is pleased to announce the release of the 8.1 mega pixel i85. The i85 is equipped with a 3.0” touch screen LCD, an integrated MP3 player and PMP (Portable Multimedia Player) function. An inbuilt Tour Guide function provides instant access to travel information covering 2,600 regions in 30 countries, so you’ll always know where the action is. Further information can also be downloaded directly from the internet, and with 450 MB of internal memory you won’t need to worry about space for favourite travel tips. The camera is equipped with the Samsung Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) system and ISO 1600 high sensitivity support so that images remain crisp and detailed even without a flash.

The i85 also features Samsung’s Intelligent Face Recognition Technology, which detects the subject’s face, automatically adjusts auto focus and auto exposure to ensure better composition and image quality in portraits. The AF function instantaneously recognises the faces of subjects and accurately focuses on them before the AE function takes over, setting the appropriate exposure to ensure the highest image quality.

The stunning new Samsung i85 is a must-have camera packed with intelligently integrated multimedia features. Availability will be late August.

Samsung Announces New NV Series Digicams

Samsung Cameras, leaders in innovation and digital imaging, is building on the success of the groundbreaking NV Series with the launch of three new premium compact cameras. Continuing the themes of innovative technology and user-friendly features, the new NV8, NV15 and NV20 also sport the stylish blue ring design which has become a trademark for Samsung quality and design in the digital camera market.

All three new models in the NV Series include Samsung’s award winning Smart Touch User Interface which has now been further enhanced for easy and convenient control – a gentle touch is all it takes to navigate menu items, change the camera settings, or view your pictures. Samsung’s new NV models also include improved processing technology which allows faster operation of functions within the camera’s ultra-thin stylish bodies. Improved functions include, faster processing of images and improved noise reduction. Other developments include faster Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) to 0.7 seconds, advanced noise reduction which supports up to ISO 3200 and a new local contrast control which enables the camera to compensate the brightness of a shadowed subject in backlit conditions for even better results.

“Samsung Cameras award winning NV Digital Camera range has set the benchmark for quality and innovation. With new improved processing technology and enhanced features the NV8, NV15 and NV20 build upon this success. Quite simply our new NV cameras ensure photographers of all levels can enjoy taking high quality images they can be proud of” said Robert King, Commercial Director, Samsung Cameras UK.

NV20
The NV20 is Samsung’s first 12 mega pixel compact camera featuring Samsung’s improved processing technology combined with features such as a 3 x optical zoom lens, Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) and Red-eye fix to deliver optimum image quality to all photographers. The sleek NV20 also offers additional functionality such as TV quality MPEG-4 VGA (640x480) 30 fps video recording and a photo gallery function for convenient picture viewing with the Smart Touch interface. The NV20 boasts a 2.5” LCD screen, a multi-charging system and it comes with a rechargeable battery.

NV15
With 10 mega pixels and a 2.5" wide-view LCD, the NV15 provides brighter, sharper, more detailed images. Coupled with Samsung's unique Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) system, the NV15 enables you to take clearer pictures indoors or in lower light conditions. The NV10 also features TV quality MPEG-4 VGA (640x480) 30fps video recording. The NV15 comes complete with a rechargeable battery and can also be charged via USB.

NV8
Functioning as a high resolution 8 mega-pixel digital camera, the NV8 is a stylish yet practical device sure to attract the next generation of digital photographers. With both Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) system and Red Eye Fix technology the NV8 will produce stunning results for photographers of all levels. The NV8 with 3 x optical zoom is encased in a thin body and boasts the stylish black design in keeping with the NV Series. It also has powerful movie capabilities and a 2.5” LCD screen.

Cameras should be available in September.

Web Gallery Generator From Shozam

Three months after its beta launch, “anti”-photo sharing website Shozam has announced the release of the Shozam Web Gallery Generator, which creates Web galleries for users to showcase digital media. The generator is released in conjunction with Komotion Inc.

“If a service goes out of business, the gallery – and the work and time that went into it – can disappear. Even worse, precious photos can be lost,” said Razvan Neagu, President and CEO of Komotion, in a press release. “With Shozam, users create their own photo Web sites and stay in control of their media.”

Content is imported and can be customized by the user with captions, audio, and themes. The generator allows for seven different page layouts that can be uploaded to any Web host. “Why would anyone give up ownership of their images, and let others take control and make money from them?“ Neagu said. “Shozam eliminates the need for online photo sites which can over-compress photos, clutter the site with ads, impose restrictions, or require minimum purchases of add-ons like prints and calendars.”

The Shozam Web Gallery Generator is available in five editions, starting at $50. A Business Plus edition has been added to the site, which previous only hosted a Business edition. The Business Plus edition allows for the removal of the Shozam credit line. A lite edition is available for free, but does not allow for audio, video or text. Shozam is compatible with Microsoft Windows and offers a free trial on its website.

Kodak Sues Matsushita For Patent Violations

Eastman Kodak Co. has announced it is suing Matsushita, the Japanese parent company of Panasonic and JVC, for possible violations of its digital camera technology patents, according to a Reuters news report.

Kodak filed the lawsuit on Wednesday in the Eastern District of Texas, citing infringement of Kodak patents for image compression, digital storage, and motion image preview, according to Reuters. Eastman Kodak Co. has a history of litigation with other corporations, including legal battles with Ampex Corp., Phillips Corp., and more recently with Sony Corp. who signed a cross-licensing pact earlier this year, according to Reuters. Kodak licenses out its sensor technology to other manufacturers. Kodak sensors can be found in the Leica M8 rangefinder and in the forthcoming Pentax 645 digital medium format camera still in development.

Terry White Explores Adobe Bridge CS3

New podcast from Terry White covers Adobe Bridge CS3.

“Adobe Bridge CS3 has the ability to see the contents of any folder. However, if you have folders nested several levels deep, it may be a pain to have to keep drilling down to find what you want. In this episode I'll take the pain out this process by showing you how to use Bridge CS3's flat file view.” - Terry White

View the podcast from the Adobe Creative Suite Video Podcast website.

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Sigma Announces Two New Nikon Mount Macro HSM Lenses

Sigma Corporation has announced the release of the new 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC MACRO HSM and 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO HSM for Nikon mount.

17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC MACRO HSM
The HSM system has been incorporated into this large aperture standard zoom lens for digital SLR cameras. This lens is capable of autofocusing with all Nikon DSLR cameras (including the D40 and D40x) and has a minimum focusing distance of 20cm (7.9”) and maximum magnification of 1:2.3 enabling close-up photography. A Special Low Dispersion (SLD) lens and Aspherical lens allows a compact construction and high optical performance.

18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO HSM
The HSM system has been incorporated into this large aperture standard zoom 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO. This lens is capable of autofocusing with all Nikon DSLR cameras ( inculding the D40 and D40x). Aspherical lens, SLD lens and ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) provide high picture quality throughout the entire zoom range. Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. Layer Coating and lens power layout provide high picture quality throughout the entire zoom range.


How To Take Better Macro Insect Photos

Christopher Badzioch on popphoto.com proves that it's not always the most expensive and specialized gear that makes a great photo -- it's the eye, vision, a sharpie marker, some electrical tape and a cheap homemade sweep that really matter when it comes to making amazingly detailed, dramatic insect "portraits."

Read the entire article on popphoto.com.
Image © Christopher Badzioch

FujiFilm Announces New FinePix A920 9MP Digicam

FUJIFILM U.S.A. Inc. has announced the launch of the nine-MegaPixel FinePix A920. Designed specifically for the first-time digital camera buyer and consumers seeking an affordable, easy-to-operate upgrade to their current digital camera, Fujifilm’s FinePix A920 is loaded with features usually reserved for more advanced models. The camera incorporates Fujifilm’s signature Super CCD sensor technology, a 4.0x optical zoom lens and features a 2.7” LCD.

Following in the footsteps of Fujifilm’s more advanced digital cameras, the FinePix A920 features a 4.0x optical zoom lens that was developed specifically for the A-Series by Fujinon, a Fujifilm sister company and leading provider of broadcast-grade television lenses and other high quality optical products across many consumer and industrial applications.

To make it easy for consumers to achieve blur-free results, the FinePix A920 features a “Picture Stabilization” mode in the dial setting. This easy-to-identify setting automatically chooses the correct light sensitivity and best-matching shutter speed, producing the highest quality digital pictures without blur and the noise often associated with high sensitivity photographs. In addition, the FinePix A920 shoots with light sensitivities of up to ISO 800 at full resolution. These higher light sensitivities enable the user to shoot with faster shutter speeds, which lessen the likelihood of blurry pictures caused by a moving subject or the shake of an unsteady hand.

The FinePix A920 also features an intuitive icon-based Graphic User Interface (GUI). When users switch shooting modes, scene positions or control settings, a brief explanation of the setting is momentarily displayed on the LCD screen, taking much of the guess work out of digital camera operation. Additionally, the camera sports a conveniently placed mode dial that provides easy access to the most commonly used shooting modes, including Auto, Picture Stabilization and Movie mode and allows one-touch access to other pre-programmed scene modes.The FinePix A920 also utilizes an “xD / SD / SDHC Media Compatible slot”; a single media slot that accepts not only Fujifilm’s traditional xD-Picture Cards™, but also SecureDigital (SD) and SDHC media cards. In offering these media options, Fujifilm is providing greater choice and flexibility to consumers who purchase Fujifilm digital cameras.

Fujifilm’s new A920 model also offers the following attractive features:
Large LCD: 2.7-inch LCD display with anti-glare properties.
Scene Modes: A wide range of 15 pre-programmed scene modes provides top-quality photos in a range of shooting conditions.
Movie Mode: Capture live action movies in QVGA quality 640x480 resolution at 30 frames per second with sound.
Internal Memory: When the xD-picture card or SD memory card (sold separately) is filled with images, users have extra internal storage space on each camera to capture additional pictures.
IrSimple™ Technology: Demonstrating Fujifilm’s commitment to innovation, ‘IrSimple™’ enables mobile devices – like the FinePix A920 – to instantly and wirelessly connect and transmit digital images to other IrSimple™ enabled devices such as other digital cameras, PDAs and photo kiosks. It provides a faster, more secure means to share pictures with family and friends.

The FinePix A920 will debut in September 2007 with a retail price of $199.95.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Visions Of Rock Gallery Showcases Musician Photographs

American Photo Online showcases photographs taken by musicians such as Bryan Adams, Perry Ferrell, Lenny Kravitz, Lou Reed and many others in a presentation titled Visions Of Rock. View the galleries, hear audio clips and even register to win a Nikon D40 DSLR and two VIP passes to attend the private opening in New York City of the Visions Of Rock gallery event. The event itself runs from September 9th to October 7th.

New Adobe Photoshop CS3 Plug-Ins From Strata

Strata has introduced three new plug-ins for Adobe Photoshop CS3 — Strata Design 3D[in], Strata Foto 3D[in] and Strata Live 3D[in]. Each plug-in costs $149, and leverages Photoshop CS3 Extended’s new 3D capabilities.

Strata Design 3D[in] features Match[in], Model[in] and Render[in]. The software lets you add 3D content and patch the perspective in your PS3 project; lets you model new objects or modify existing objects; and compose final scenes, set up lighting using High Dynamic Range (HDR) images, generate soft shadows, reflected light, refractive materials and more.

Foto 3D[in] provides users with the ability to generate 3D models from photographs shot from regular digital cameras. The objects include 3D model data combined with photo-based surface textures, to help create models for 3D Web pages and other purposes.

Live 3D[in] lets users create interactive 3D content for Web sites and PDF documents, such as interactive product brochures, assembly guides and 3D Web walkthroughs.

System requirements call for G4 or better (including Intel), Mac OS X v10.4.8 or later, 512MB RAM and 1024 x 768 display, along with Photoshop CS3 Extended.
Provided by Macworld

FlexColor 4.7.1 Update From Hasselblad

Hasselblad has announced the availability of FlexColor 4.7.1. The latest release includes updates to v.4.7, released late last month. For Mac users, the newest edition of FlexColor will improve tethered capture performance, and previews will show up faster. For Windows users, Japanese and Chinese are now available as language preferences for users with IDs containing non-Latin characters. For both operating systems, Firmware R211 is also included to install cosmetic changes to the HxD, CFx, and 503CWD. An automatic update problem for Ixpress products has also been repaired.

FlexColor 4.7.1 is available for download from the Hasselblad website.

Praktica Announces Two New 7.2MP Digicams

German company Praktica has announced two point-and-shoots; the 7.2-megapixel Luxmedia 7403 and DPix 740Z. Both offer 3x optical zoom lenses, face detection, and are SD compatible. Pricing and availability have not yet been announced.

The Luxmedia 7403 has a 3-inch LCD screen and 32 MB of internal memory. It can also function as an MP3 player. The 7403 is PictBridge compatible.

The DPix 740Z has a 2.4-inch LCD and 16 MB of internal memory. Like the 7403, it is PictBridge compatible, and allows for direct printing. Unlike the 7403, which is made of metal, the 740Z has a plastic body and works with USB 1.1.

The 7403 follows the 7303 in Praktica’s Luxmedia line, and boasts more megapixels and the added MP3 player. The 740Z follows the 530Z in the DPix line, and touts a larger LCD screen, improved digital zoom, and an additional 2 MP of resolution.

Praktica’s cameras are manufactured by Pentacon, a Dresden-based company dating back to the 19th century, and are currently the only branded cameras sold by the company. Praktica collapsed after German reunification, but reformed and has since produced products such as budget lenses, optical space equipment, and 3D LCD screens.

NAPP Provides Digital Workshop In Arizona Slot Canyons

Matt Kloskowski a trainer and commentator for The National Association of Photoshop Professionals will be coming out to Arizona in October for a Slot Canyons Photo Workshop. Find out more about this Digital Photography Workflow Workshop.
Image © Matt Kloskowski

Leica Releases Firmware Update For Digital Modul-R

Leica Camera AG has announced that it will provide a free firmware update for the LEICA DIGITAL MODUL-R on its website www.leica-camera.com. The new firmware, Version 1.3, offers extensive improvements in the performance of Leica's SLR digital/film hybrid system.The new firmware for the LEICA DIGITAL MODUL-R optimizes the coloring on the Digital Modul-R display screen, enhanced adjustment of exposure and improved compatibility of SD cards with FAT 32 system/ 4 GB cards. The update will also increase general image reproduction and functional features.

Detailed information on the firmware update for the LEICA DIGITAL MODUL-R is available at Leica Website.

Kodak C513 Digicam Features New CMOS Sensor

Kodak’s breakthrough image sensor for digital cameras will first see the light of day in a low-price camera for novice photographers. The company announced Tuesday that the new Kodak C513 would be the first camera to use their new sensor, which specializes in improving low-light photographs.

“Traditionally, CMOS has allowed for lower cost camera design but was not able to provide top image quality,” said John Blake, general manager of Kodak’s digital division. “Kodak has changed that dynamic with the introduction of a digital camera at a remarkably affordable price without compromising image quality or camera function.”

The $79.95 C513 is a no-frills point-and-shoot camera with a 5.0 megapixel CMOS sensor, 3X optical zoom, 2.4-inch LCD display and digital image stabilization. It comes with 16MB of onboard RAM, and an SD expansion slot to provide the real storage. Power for the camera comes from trusty (if bulky) rechargeable AA batteries. Kodak says it will be available in August.

Panasonic Announces New LUMIX 8MP 18x Zoom Digicam

Panasonic has expanded its LUMIX family of digital still cameras with the introduction of the LUMIX DMC-FZ18, an 8.1 Megapixel compact camera with an impressive 18x optical zoom. In addition to a premium 28mm wide-angle LEICA DC lens, the DMC-FX18 joins the LUMIX DMC-FX33 and DMC-FX55 as the first Panasonic digital cameras to offer the revolutionary Intelligent Auto Mode, which include Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Continuous Auto-focus functions, allowing users to easily capture clear, professional-quality images in any situation or setting.

When this powerful camera, with an optical zoom up to 18x, is put into Intelligent Auto Mode, the multi-faceted functions engage automatically, so there is no need to adjust settings every time conditions change.

The DMC-FZ18’s intuitive Intelligent Auto Mode is comprised of:
- Intelligent Scene Selector, which automatically selects the appropriate scene mode from the most frequently-used modes such as Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Scenery and Night Portrait;
- Face Detection System, which helps the camera to focus, set auto exposure and detects up to 15 human faces capturing them clearly and brightly; and
- Continuous Auto-focus, which allows the camera to keep focus on the subject without having to press the shutter button halfway and allowing for the best results out of a shutter chance by minimizing the auto-focus time.

“The Intelligent Auto Mode in the DMC-FZ18 does all the work for you, making photo-taking trouble-free,” noted Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “When taking into account the camera’s 18x optical zoom, which is among the industry’s longest zooms, and then adding 8.1 Megapixels, a 28mm wide-angle lens, MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, and Intelligent Auto Mode, the DMC-FZ18 delivers professional-level photo quality, in a powerful camera packed with advanced features that is still easy to use.”

Similar to the entire 2007 line of LUMIX digital still cameras, the camera sports advanced countermeasures against blurring – the Intelligent Image Stabilization system, which combines MEGA Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) to compensate for hand-shake and Intelligent ISO Control to detect and adjust for motion blur caused by subject movement.

The LUMIX DMC-FZ18 also is equipped with a 2.5-inch large, high resolution LCD with 207,000 pixels, a 0.44-inch Electric Viewfinder with 188,000 pixels, f/2.8 brightness and is powered by the high-quality, high-performance, Venus Engine III, which boasts shooting at ISO 1600 in normal recording mode.

The DMC-FZ18 has been redesigned to make the camera more stylish and easier to use. The auto focus, auto exposure lock, and Macro buttons are now independent, to allow quick and direct operation, a metal-finished mode dial adds design strength and an enhanced rubber grip makes the camera easier to hold. The redesigned body also incorporates the joystick made popular by the DMC-FZ8 model, which enables a host of settings, such as manual focusing and exposure, to be done quickly and easily.

Other advanced features of the LUMIX DMC-FZ18 include:
- Custom Setting Mode that memorizes your frequent setting patterns for instance use applied by simply selecting this function on the mode dial.
- 1920 x 1080 pixel photos ideal for full-screen viewing on a wide-screen HDTV.
- Six auto-focusing methods including: face detection, multi, three-point high-speed, one-point high-speed, one-point normal-speed, and spot. With the one-point auto-focus or spot auto-focus method, the auto-focusing area can be chosen from as many as 11 points with the joystick or cursor button.
- Advanced Scene Modes provide users more control over some frequently-used scene modes such as, indoor and outdoor modes when selecting portrait or sports mode and nature or architecture settings when selecting portrait mode.
- Bundled SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE software application for editing and developing images in the RAW file format.
- 27 MB of built-in memory: Perfect for backing up SDHC/SD Memory Card recording. *
- Extra Optical Zoom feature extends zoom power to 28.7x at 3 Megapixels.
- Compatibility with large-capacity SDHC memory cards.
- Title Edit Function allows inputting of text and additional picture information.
- Picture Playback by category: Sorts images into categories such as portraits, landscapes, nightscapes, events and motion pictures. Also, allows slideshow playback of images in the same category.
- Optional accessories including a tele-conversion lens, close-up lens, ND filter, MC protector, lens adaptor, AC adaptor, battery pack, soft case and camera Bag.
- Available in two colors: silver and black.
- The LUMIX DMC-FZ18 will be available in September 2007 for an MSRP of $399.95.

Panasonic Announces Two New 8MP LUMIX Digicams

Panasonic has introduced the newest additions to its FX-series of compact digital cameras, the LUMIX DMC-FX55 and DMC-FX33. Like the entire 2007 LUMIX line, the two new models incorporate Panasonic’s revolutionary Intelligent Image Stabilization technologies, and are the first Panasonic cameras, along with the newly introduced DMC-FZ18, to offer Intelligent Auto Mode, a system which combines Mega Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S) and Intelligent ISO Control with three new features: Face Detection System, Intelligent Scene Selector and Continuous Auto Focus. Both models combine 8.1-megapixels with a 28mm wide-angle LEICA DC lens with 3.6x optical zoom.

The new Intelligent Auto Mode available on both the DMC-FX55 and DMC-FX33, include:
- Intelligent Scene Selector, which automatically selects the appropriate scene mode from the most frequently-used modes such as Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Scenery and Night Portrait;
- Face Detection System, which helps the camera to focus, set auto exposure and detects up to 15 human faces, capturing them clearly and brightly; and
- Continuous Auto-focus, which allows the camera to maintain focus on the subject without having to press the shutter button halfway and allowing for best results of a photo opportunity by minimizing the auto-focus time.

“With our Intelligent Auto Modes, the DMC-FX55 and DMC-FX33 are the perfect combination of performance and style, giving consumers a user-friendly digital camera in a sleek and compact body that makes it easy to carry,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Also featuring a 28-mm wide-angle LEICA DC lens and MEGA OIS, these cameras allow the on-the-go consumer to capture high-quality images with incredible features and convenience.”

Intelligent Image Stabilization, a feature across the entire 2007 LUMIX digital camera line, comprises two features – MEGA O.I.S. which helps compensate for the effects of hand-shake; and Intelligent ISO Control, which takes into account the photo subject is moving and adjusts the ISO setting. Combining these two anti-blur features helps allow the DMC-FX33 and DMC-FX55 to photograph clear, crisp images.

In addition, the DMC-FX55 and DMC-FX33 feature the Venus Engine III, which supports a new High Sensitivity mode that allows images to be shot at a setting of up to ISO 6400. This is sensitive enough to capture subjects in low-light conditions without the need for a flash. Also, the high-speed Burst Shooting mode enables up to seven shots to be taken per second.

Other advanced features include:
- The DMC-FX55 has a 3-inch LCD screen and the DMC-FX33 comes with a 2.5-inch LCD screen.
- 27 MB of built-in memory, perfect for backing up SDHC/SD Memory Card recording.*
- The new Title Edit function allows the inputting of text to provide additional context to images. Additional functions for adding information to photos include the Text Stamp function and the Travel Date function.
- Category Playback sorts images into categories, such as portraits, events, baby, etc. to allow for easy playback and creation of slideshows.
- Clipboard function allows the user to hold and retrieve certain images that may be useful on a trip, such as a photo of a map or train schedule.
- The DMC-FX33 is compatible with a marine case for underwater shooting.
- The DMC-FX55 will be available in silver, black and pink, while the DMC-FX33 will come in silver, black, blue and brown.
- Both cameras will be available in September 2007. The DMC-FX55 for an MSRP of $349.95 and the DMC-FX33 for an MSRP of $299.95.

Monday, July 23, 2007

The Met To Open Menschel Hall for Modern Photography

If in the New York area or planning a trip to the Big Apple, on September 25, the Metropolitan Museum of Art will inaugurate the Joyce and Robert Menschel Hall for Modern Photography, which will feature about 2,000 square feet of exhibit space and high ceilings that can accommodate large shots. This marks the first time since 1960 that a hall has been dedicated to photography alone.

Among the photographers to be featured in Menschel are Thomas Struth, Andreas Gursky, Sigmar Polke, Richard Prince, Cindy Sherman and Thomas Ruff. The first installation, named “Depth of Field,” borrows from the Met’s permanent collection to illuminate photography’s different paths since 1960. Each Menschel exhibit will last six months. Future exhibits will cover landscape and the built environment, the body and photography about photography.

Kingston Announces Faster CompactFlash Media

Following the recent news from SanDisk regarding their plans to release faster CompactFlash media, Kingston Technology has announced its CompactFlash Ultimate, with an increased 266x write speed. Available in 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB storage capacities, the new CF memory cards promise to write data twice as fast as previous 133x speed cards. Prices for the Kingston CompactFlash Ultimate cards range from $83 to $280.

“Photographers using digital SLR cameras are looking for faster card write speeds to capture life’s moments as they happen without interruption,” said Kingston Flash Memory Product Manager Mark Akoubian. “Kingston’s new CompactFlash Ultimate 266X memory cards maximize a digital camera’s performance, delivering the speed and capacity necessary to complete even the most challenging assignments.”

The new CompactFlash Association compliant memory cards can record image files including RAW, TIFF, and JPEG. Each card includes a free download of MediaRECOVER image recovery software for Mac and Windows users. The Kingston 2GB CF card has a retail price of $83 and the 4GB memory card is priced at $144. The highest capacity CompactFlash Ultimate 8GB card with a 266x write speed retails for $280. The Kingston CompactFlash Ultimate Cards come with technical support and a lifetime warranty.

New NFL Photographer Rules Causing Uproar

The National Football League has passed a new rule for the upcoming season that requires photographers at NFL games to wear red vests with Canon and Reebok logos on them, and the news is not being very well received by some editors and photography directors as word spreads through the journalism community. Read the entire story from the National Press Photographers Association.

Photographer Wins Copyright Infringement Lawsuit

Photographer Robert Burch recently won a copyright infringement suit against a New York City travel agency. Read the entire article on Photo District News.

Sigma Announces Two New Flash Units

Sigma has announced the launch of two new electronic flash units, the EF-530 DG Super and the EF-530 DG ST. Compatible with most major camera bodies, according to a recent press release, the new Sigma flashes support TTL auto exposure systems by makers Sigma, Nikon, Canon, Sony, and Pentax. Both the EF-530 DG Super and DG ST have a guide number of 53 per meter at ISO 100 and cover a focal length of 24mm to 105mm.

The DG Super edition flash is capable of a range of functionality, including modeling flash function, multi pulse flash, TTL wireless flash, FP (high speed) flash, rear-curtain Synchro flash, and manual flash in which the user can control up to eight stops. The Sigma EF-530 DG ST also features TTL automatic flash exposure with auto zoom, which sets the flash illumination based on the lens’ focal length.

The Sigma flash units accept four AA alkaline, NiCd, or Ni-MH batteries. Pricing and availability for the EF-530 DG Super and EF-530 DG ST have not yet been announced.


Digital Photography School Blog Offers 21 Tips For Amateur Wedding Shoots

Planning to shoot your first wedding? The Digital Photography School blog offers 21 tips for amateur wedding photographers. As a photographer who has taken on this task a few times, and subsequently decided it’s far from my favorite thing to shoot, the suggestions provided should help anyone who wants to try this type of photography. Read the entire list of tips.

Lightroom Workflow Podcast From Terry White

Adobe Creative Suite Video Podcast with Terry White features a new video covering the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 1.1 Workflow. In this episode Terry will take you through the complete Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 1.1 workflow. From start to finish.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Another Wow! Photo

This image was taken in Bitterroot National Forest in Montana on August 6, 2000. The photographer, John McColgan, is a fire behavior analyst from Fairbanks, Alaska. He took the picture with a digital camera. Since he was working at the time that he took the photograph he cannot profit from it. Regardless, it is quite the compelling image.
Image 2000 © John McColgan

Wow! Photos

Animal behaviourist Kevin Richardson says he relies on instinct and patience to win the trust of these big cats. Eighteen amazing images are included in this gallery.
Image © 2006 News Limited

FinePix S5 Pro Update For FujiFilm Hyper-Utility Software HS-V3

FujiFilm announces an update to their Hyper-Utility software HS-V3. The update supports the PC SHOOTING FUNCTION can be used with the FinePix S5 Pro when the [FUNCTION LOCK] of the camera is ON.

The v1.1b update for both Windows and Mac OS X can be downloaded and installed directly from the FujiFilm website.

Sigma SD14 DSLR Price Drop

Sigma has dropped the price of its 14-megapixel digital SLR based on the Foveon X3 sensor. The Sigma SD14 is now available for about $1200, which is $400 less than its original price. Sigma's marketing manager, Tom Sobey, claimes that the reason for the drop was probably just an effort to improve sales, noting that the SD14 joins several other midrange digital SLRs that have recently dropped in price to remain competitive in the current market, including Canon's 30D and 5D.

Canon EOS-1D Mark III Firmware Update Coming Soon

Official Company Press Release:
In order to provide customers with enhanced customer support, Canon has developed a new Version 1.0.9 firmware for the EOS-1D Mark III Digital SLR camera. This firmware update incorporates the following improvements and fixes:

- Improves the look of images when enlarged on the LCD monitor. Applies a slightly stronger sharpness setting to the LCD monitor when images are enlarged.

- Improves the consistency of AI Servo AF under certain conditions. Reduces the tendency of the camera to autofocus on high-contrast backgrounds when shooting in conditions where AF detection is difficult, such as when the main subject is not completely covered by the AF frames or if the main subject's contrast is low.

- Provides countermeasures for Main Dial response errors (Main, Quick Control, Vertical-grip Main). Fixes a rare response error in the Main Dials in which they either did not respond when rotated or would change several clicks' worth even if only clicked once.

- Corrects errors in the Italian and Simplified Chinese menu screens.

Please note that Version 1.0.9 firmware is currently scheduled to be made available for download from the Web at the end of July. It is NOT currently available for download. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. However, Canon U.S.A. Factory Service Centers in Jamesburg, NJ and Irvine, CA can install the updated firmware as of now. EOS-1D Mark III customers who wish to send their cameras into a Canon Factory Service Center for this upgrade are welcome to do so at their own expense. (Customer pays shipping to the Factory Service Center; Canon installs the firmware update and ships the camera back to the customer at no charge.) On the other hand, if the customer prefers, he or she can wait until version 1.0.9 is available for download at no charge from Canon's web site. If a customer sends his or her camera into the service department now, and firmware is upgraded by the service department, the soon-to-be-available download will not add any additional functionality to the camera -- there will be no need to perform a further firmware update when version 1.0.9 is made available for download on Canon's web site.

Friday, July 20, 2007

Simpsonize Yourself!

I can admit I’ve learned a lot about photo editing from Scott Kelby. Whether it’s with Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, his instructional books are ‘must have’ material in my opinion. But now I’ve learned something even more amazing and life altering…how to become a Simpson. Scott has posted on his blog Photoshop Insider a link to the Simpsonizer, an amazing machine that converts anyone into a Simpson. And I thought the iPhone was cool.

Check it out for yourself and be sure to register first in order to save your work. It does take some time, but is the perfect distraction during those annoying conference calls. The best part is that when I was Simpsonized (see image) I lost some weight, and I’m smiling. Now I know this is make believe.

CFA Developing SATA CompactFlash Cards?

As a Sony Alpha 100 (utilizes CF cards) user I was interested to hear that the CompactFlash Association (CFA) has announced the formation of a working group to develop a specification for CompactFlash cards with a serial ATA (SATA) interface. The implementation of a SATA interface would boost data transfer speeds, enabling faster performance in cameras that capture large images and use the CompactFlash memory card format, as well as speedier image downloads to computers and other storage devices. CompactFlash cards currently use a parallel data transfer interface with a limit of 133MB/second.

Leica C-LUX 2 Review

Popphoto.com reviews the latest digital point-and-shoot from Leica. Is the Leica C-LUX 2 worth it’s $500 price tag, or are you simply paying extra for that well-known red logo on the front? I suspect the latter, but then again, I’m a cynic. Zach Honig gives the skinny on this petite and pricey shooter. Read the entire review on popphoto.com.

Harry Benson Featured On Kingston's Icons Of Photography

Official Company Press Release:
Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, announced today that it has posted an interview with legendary photojournalist Harry Benson on its 'Icons of Photography' microsite. A witness to history, Benson shares what it was like to be standing next to Robert F. Kennedy when he was assassinated, how he got his first big break as the only journalist allowed to interview a mass murderer in prison, and how it felt to march with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In addition to his photographic exploits, Benson expresses personal goals such as his longtime desire to become a professional football (soccer) player.

"Being a member of Kingston's 'Icons of Photography' means I have the support of professionals I can rely on to answer any questions I might have," said Benson. "It seems rather apropos that Kingston® would take it one step further and develop a program that allows photographers from around the world to ask questions and seek advice from us. Being involved in this way brings my career full-circle as it allows me to share my life experiences," added Benson.

The interview marks the second in a series called 20 Questions which gives site visitors an up-close-and-personal look at some of the world's most respected photographers. Kingston encourages photographers who visit the 'Icons of Photography' microsite to take an active role through features including Ask the Icon, which gives photographers an opportunity to pose their own questions and Critique My Image, which invites photographers to submit a photo to be constructively critiqued by one of Kingston's Icons.

"The reaction we've received about this program from photographers around the world has been extremely encouraging," said Jaja Lin, Flash memory marketing manager, Kingston. "The questions posed to the Icons and the quality of images submitted for Critique My Image shows that there is a lot of interest and talent nationally and internationally," added Lin.

Benson has photographed every U.S. president from Dwight D. Eisenhower to George W. Bush. In addition, he went on maneuvers with the IRA, was in the room with former President Richard Nixon when he resigned and was next to Coretta Scott King at her husband's funeral.

For more detailed information visit the Kingston IOP Web site at http://www.blogger.com/.

Nikon USA Releases New Digicam Firmware And Software

Nikon USA has released updated firmware and software for three of its digital camera models.

Nikon Wireless Camera Setup Utility v2.1 is available in two versions - one compatible with 32-bit Windows Vista (specifically the Home Basic / Home Premium / Home Business / Home Enterprise and Home Ultimate versions), and one for Intel-based Mac OS X (versions 10.3 to 10.4.9).

To use the software, a firmware update may also required depending on your camera model. Nikon Coolpix S6 firmware version 1.1 is for both Windows Vista and Mac OS X users, and the only change in the firmware is support for the new Wireless Camera Setup Utility release.

Users of the Nikon Coolpix P1 and Coolpix P2 will also find a new version 1.1 of firmware for each camera, but only if using the Windows Vista operating system. Operation of the new Wireless Camera Setup Utility with the Coolpix P1 and P2 on Mac OS X is "not guaranteed", notes Nikon's FAQ.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

SanDisk Announces Extreme Ducati Edition CF Cards

Known as Extreme Ducati Edition, the series includes 4GB and 8GB CompactFlash, SD Plus 4GB SDHC and a 4GB USB flash drive. Initial tests show the 4GB and 8GB cards to be the speediest of their breed when it comes to JPEG and RAW write speed, which is officially listed as 45 MB/second. Rob Galbraith has done a little converting, though, and figured out that it’s more like 42.9MB/second.

Digital Wedding Forum Offers Free Start Membership

Digital Wedding Forum (DWF), a site devoted to discussion and support for wedding and portrait photographers, has announced its DWF Start membership, a free forum for those aspiring towards a career in wedding photography. Paid memberships are also available to professional photographers.

Previously, DWF only offered a Pro membership to professional photographers who could show proof of a website and business tax ID. The DWF Start membership is the first to be available to aspiring wedding and portrait photographers rather than professionals, and is available for free.

Those who join DWF Start will be able to interact with other new photographers as well as DWF Pro members. Users may also view the DWF Pro photo gallery and access the DWF master lists of services and vendors. Digital Wedding Forum.

Olympus Releases Studio 2.0 Update

Olympus has announced the release of the OLYMPUS Studio 2.0 software, supporting professional and ambitious amateur photographers in their work. This major update enhances functionality and usability for advanced image management and editing requirements. A trial-version of the software will be bundled with all new Olympus E-System cameras, and the full version is available for download via the internet.

OLYMPUS Studio 2.0 takes further steps to improve image file management and editing functionality. From the new user interface to Windows Vista and Intel-based Macintosh support, the software enables professional and ambitious amateur users to do more than ever before. RAW development of images taken by the Olympus E-510 and E-410 D-SLRs has also been added, and photographers can now profit from a new back-up function as well as the facility to simply print sleeves for CDs/DVDs, thereby assisting in streamlining their workflow. It naturally retains its professional editing and batch-processing capabilities along with light-box function and the possibility for full control over the Olympus E-System cameras directly from a computer.

The software is now available for download from the internet. It will also come bundled as a trial version with every new Olympus E-System D-SLR for which a “full version key” can be ordered online.

Photoshop Magic Performed On Faith Hill

The power of Photoshop is profiled on Jezebel, a pop-culture blog, with a look at a recent Redbook magazine cover photo of Country music star Faith Hill. The comparison between the actual photograph and the ‘improved’ version that graced the magazine cover is intriguing. Who cares about reality when you have Adobe Photoshop handy? Experience Faith’s transformation on jezebel.com.

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Develop Module From Start To Finish

Matt Kloskowski on his Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Killer Tips blog provides insight on the Develop module of Lightroom.

I’m veering off the normal “tips” video this week and doing something a little different. This time around I’m taking a photo thru the Develop module from start to finish. Basically, I’ll show you what I would do for a properly exposed photo, for the most part. I’ll go through what settings I would use and what settings I typically ignore.

View the entire video.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Reuters Recovers The Cameras Of Killed Iraqi Photographer

Reuters has recovered two cameras that were being used by photographer Namir Noor-Eldeen when he was killed in Baghdad last week in a U.S. military action.

Photos on the cameras show no evidence of the firefight described by the U.S. military in its statement about the incident, which also killed driver Saeed Chmagh, the news agency reported. The cameras were recovered from Noor-Eldeen's body by U.S. soldiers on Thursday and returned to Reuters Sunday.

Several photos were taken while the cameras were in the custody of U.S. soldiers, according to Reuters.

Someone used Noor-Eldeen's wide-angle camera to shoot two shots of an American soldier in what looks like a barracks. They were taken more than three hours after the incident that killed Noor-Eldeen, based on the camera's digital clock. Earlier shots on the camera show shadows on the ground and the lower legs of a U.S. soldier, which Reuters speculates were snapped by accident as the camera was being carried.

Reuters revealed the findings in a story Monday, and distributed some of the photographs through its wire service. Among the images is an odd photo showing the top of someone's head with the sky and the side of a structure in the background.

Reuters says it wants a "thorough and objective investigation" into the action that left its two staff members dead, and demanded an explanation for why the cameras were confiscated.

The U.S. military has characterized the incident as a firefight in which nine insurgents and two civilians were killed. A military statement says U.S. and Iraqi forces were taking part in a planned raid when they were attacked with small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades. U.S. troops returned fire and called in air support. Witnesses told Reuters that the attack involved an Apache helicopter, but witnesses did not report seeing gunmen on the ground.

"Our preliminary investigation raises real questions about whether there was fighting at the time the two men were killed," said David Schlesinger, editor-in-chief of Reuters, in a statement. "For the sake of their memory and for the sake of all journalists in Iraq we need a thorough and objective investigation that will help us and the military learn lessons that will improve the safety of journalists in the future."

Reuters also revealed Monday that a 30-year-old Iraqi man who was working as a Reuters translator was shot dead last week, for a total of three Reuters employees killed during the week and seven throughout the war in Iraq. Reuters said the translator's family asked that his name not be released.

Also last week, an Iraqi correspondent for the New York Times, Khalid W. Hassan, was killed when his car came under attack by two cars of gunmen, according to the newspaper.
Provided by pdnonline.com

Sony Announces Plans To Increase CMOS Sensor Production

In an obvious response to the recent announcement by Canon that the company will begin developing CMOS sensors for its digital point-and-shoot cameras, Sony has announced similar plans and cameras with Sony-made CMOS sensors should be available in the near future.

Official Company Press Release
Tokyo, Japan - Sony Corporation has announced that it would invest approximately 60 billion JPY in Sony Semiconductor Kyushu Corporation's Kumamoto Technology Center (Kumamoto TEC) Fab 2 facility, to extend clean room facilities by 5,000m² and reinforce image sensor fabrication capacity. This investment will take place from fiscal year 2007 to fiscal 2009.

Sony is positioning image sensors as a key focus area of its semiconductor business. Through the reinforcement of this facility, Sony will strengthen supply and provide the platform for further image sensor business growth.

Kumamoto TEC has continued to expand its operations as Sony's principle facility for the fabrication of imaging devices, such as the CCDs, CMOS sensors and micro-display devices that are Sony's strengths. In particular, demand for CMOS sensors has demonstrated rapid growth in recent years. In view of this, Sony is enhancing production operations for this market, with mass production having already commenced at Fab 2's existing 5,000m² facility in Spring this year.

Over the next three years, Sony will continue to strengthen its CMOS sensor manufacturing operations to provide growth markets such as mobile phones and digital still cameras with CMOS sensors that combine high image quality with advanced processing speeds.

Garden Photographer Of The Year 2008 Contest

The Garden Photographer of the Year competition has issued an international call for entries in its 2008 contest. Amateur and professional photographers can submit single images or portfolios to the competition until January 31, 2008. The top 100 images selected by a panel of judges will be exhibited at The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London, from May to September 2008, alongside the images of established garden and landscape photographers.

Prizes that have not yet been announced will be awarded to a winner and two runners up for both single images and portfolios. A small fee is required to enter, and photographs and portfolios may be submitted in the following categories:

My Garden
Garden Views
Plant Portrait
Life in the Garden
Trees

Photographers under the age of 16 can enter their work for free to compete for the Young Garden Photographer of the Year award. In addition, entries received before July 31, 2007 will be judged in a preliminary competition that will award ten winners a copy of the recently published book The Art of Flower and Garden Photography, by Clive Nichols.

Further details on the Garden Photographer of the Year 2008 contest are available at the competition's Web site.
Provided by Aimee Baldridge of popphoto.com

Sharpics Provides New Compact Studio Light Kits

Sharpics, Inc., a leading source for product photography, today revealed its line of enhanced Studio Lighting Kits, designed to offer cost-effective and easy-to-use solutions for achieving professional product photography images.

Sharpics' Compact Studio Light Kit (model LKT-92) and Clamp-on Overhead Light (model CLK-9) are built to ensure accurate product photography and bring out the true colors of the particular object being photographed. Sharpics' compact designs deliver ideal lighting placement for tabletop photography.

The company is proud to announce that it will also include two compact 30-watt fluorescent bulbs with the LKT-92 lighting kit, which provide the equivalent to a 240-watt incandescent bulb. The CLK-9 Overhead Light will feature one bulb. The compact fluorescent bulbs use 75 to 80 percent less power than equivalent incandescent bulbs, offering energy-efficiency, cooler temperature and longevity. The addition of these 'daylight-balanced' bulbs will also offer customers the ability to achieve lighting effects comparable to natural daylight.

"We understand that working under the heat of strong lights to achieve the perfect photo can be exhausting and uncomfortable," said Danica Mazon, co-founder of Sharpics. "We're thrilled to introduce the benefits of energy-efficient light bulbs to customers through our new lighting kits --which will allow for a much more pleasant experience especially when working with tabletop applications or in a small space like a home office. Our customers will now be able to easily adjust their lighting angles when working, without the fear of burning themselves!"

Compact Studio Light Kit
The $129.95 compact studio light kit includes two mini studio lights, designed for applications such as tabletop photography.

Features: Two compact light stands Two 30-watt fluorescent bulbs, Color Temp. 5000K 2-section column with flip grip adjusts from 12" to 18" Two 9" reflectors with adjustable ball bracket On/off switch and 7-ft cord Each light fixture is rated 120V, 250 watts maximum.

Clamp-on Overhead Light
Sharpics' $89.95 Clamp-on Overhead Light extends product photography capabilities to include overhead lighting effects.

Features: 2" clamp with molded knob. One 30-watt fluorescent bulb, Color Temp. 5000K 2-section vertical column and 2-section horizontal column with twist lock. 9" reflector with adjustable ball bracket. On/off switch and 7-ft cord. Rated 120V, 250 watts maximum.

Sharpics is also the creator of the D-Flector -- a patent-pending portable photo studio that quickly unfolds into a tabletop background stand to support the product photography needs of everyone from professional to novice photographers. The product is ideal for individuals to easily create high-quality product images needed for selling items via the Internet, designing print catalogs, marketing and promotional materials, art projects, etc. The D-Flector has also proven to be helpful for documenting items for insurance claims, appraisals, home and office inventories or estate planning.

Product Availability
Sharpics' lighting products are available for purchase online at sharpics.com and in a variety of retail camera stores.

Adobe Photoshop Users Encouraged To Take Survey

Inform the Adobe Photoshop engineering team if any features within the image editing application need to be faster.

Adobe Photoshop Product Manager John Nack has just posted a link to the Photoshop engineering team's performance survey. The short survey seeks to provide one of those "reality checks to make sure we're focusing on the right areas," according to Nack.

In a recent blog entry, Nack quotes performance expert Adam Jerugim, who explains, "The survey is an opportunity for users to give us -- the Photoshop engineering team -- specific feedback that we can then use to make PS a better and more productive tool for everyone."To take the survey, visit the Photoshop Performance Survey.

Monday, July 16, 2007

Vertus Releases Fluid Mask 3 Upgrade

Vertus has announced the official release of Fluid Mask 3 for both MacIntosh and Windows (XP and Vista) operating systems for an SRP of $239.00.

This professional masking and separation tool is a Photoshop plug-in, but can now also be utilized as a stand-alone application.

Read more about this new update on popphoto.com.

Macworld Reviews Epson Stylus Photo 1400 Printer

Rick LePage from Macworld.com reviews the new Epson Stylus Photo 1400 ink jet printer. Here is an excerpt.

… The USB-based printer sets up in a jiffy. The six ink cartridges (black, cyan, magenta, yellow, light cyan, and light magenta) snap into place, and a single CD installs the print driver, CD-printing software, and manual. A second disc includes Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0 for the Mac, a $100 value.

Print quality is Epson’s hallmark with the Stylus Photo line, and the 1400 doesn’t disappoint. I printed test pages in Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Lightroom, and Apple’s iPhoto and Aperture, and the prints were all top notch. Photos on both glossy- and matte-finish papers showed bright, true-to-life colors, with excellent shadow detail, and resistance to both scratches and moisture. And, while the 1400 really is designed as a photo printer, you can print very good quality text documents too, which makes it serviceable as a general-purpose printer…

Read the entire review on macworld.com.

Ricoh Launches New 7MP Caplio RR750

Ricoh has launched its new Caplio RR750 a new addition to the company’s point-and-shoot digicam line. The 7.1MP camera adds increased LCD screen resolution, while retaining many features from previous Ricoh cameras. The Ricoh RR750 borrows most of its features from the earlier RR730, including its 7.1MP sensor. The RR750 also shares the 3x optical zoom and 2.5-inch LCD monitor size. The updated RR750, however, increases screen resolution to 153,600 pixels, up from 115,000 pixels on the RR730.

The new RR750 offers six scene modes . The new point-and-shoot also has a macro mode for shooting subjects as close as 6cm, a slight downgrade from the 5cm macro mode of the RR730.

The Ricoh RR750 also carries 32MB of internal memory, and is compatible with SD media. The camera accepts AA batteries. Pricing for the RR750 has not yet been announced.

Canon Plans CMOS Sensors For Digital P&S Cameras

With plans to open a new manufacturing plant in Japan, Canon Inc. will invest 55 billion yen ($451 million) to double CMOS production, according to a recent Reuters report. With the increased image sensor production, the digital camera manufacturer will broaden its CMOS implementation by installing the chip into, not just DSLRs, but also into its compact cameras, according to Reuters.

Traditionally, Canon and other digital camera manufacturers have used CCD (charge-coupled device) sensors in compact and point-and-shoot models; however, it appears Canon is now taking strides to reap the benefits of CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductors) chips, such as cheaper manufacturing costs and power efficiency, in its compacts models.

The company plans to produce 3 million CMOS chips a year.

In May, Canon began construction on the factory in Kanagawa Prefecture near Tokyo, Japan. The manufacturer plans to open the CMOS plant in July 2008.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

PMA Report: New Lighting Gear For 2007

Shutterbug provides some insight into a recent PMA report regarding upcoming studio and mobile lighting products. Many new units are being released that don’t sacrifice performance for economics. Read the entire article from Jack Neubart on shutterbug.com.
Image of Dot Line RPS Studio Plus 300 provided by shutterbug.com

Canon Releases EOS Utility Updates

Canon has released updates to both its EOS Utility and Digital Photo Professional software. EOS Utility downloads images from EOS cameras and controls remote shooting from them. Digital Photo Pro is Canon's image editing software for EOS Raw and JPEG images. Downloads are available at no charge from the Drivers/Software tab of any EOS camera product page at the Canon website.

Canon Digital Rebel XTi v1.1.0 Firmware Update Now Available

Canon has released a firmware update for the Digital Rebel XTi DSLR, known as the EOS 400D in foreign markets. Firmware v.1.1.0 can be downloaded from Canon’s website, or users may bring their camera into a Canon Service Center.

Two New 8MP L-Series Digicams From Samsung

Samsung has announced two new L-Series point-and-shoots digital cameras , the 8.1MP L830 and the 8.2MP L83T. Both cameras possess Samsung’s Intelligent Face Recognition Technology and maximum sensitivity up to ISO 1600. The Samsung L83T has a suggested retail price of $279 and due in September, while the L830 is priced at $229 when it becomes available in August.

The Samsung L830 and L83T are each fitted with a 2.5-inch, 230,000 pixel LCD screen. The updated L-series cameras come equipped with Samsung’s Intelligent Face Recognition Technology for automatic focus and exposure for portrait photography for up to nine faces in a given scene. In addition, the cameras feature Samsung’s proprietary ASR (Advanced Shake Reduction) system for low-light shooting.

Among other functions, the new L-series cameras include a Wise Shot mode that takes two consecutive photos, one with ASR image stabilization and the other with flash. The L83T and L830 have a special effects “E” button for built-in editing functions such as resizing, brightness control, and color filter. In addition, the Samsung cameras possess a “Fun” mode, a function that creates a single composite image out of four different photos.

With Samsung’s i-movie mode, the L830 and L83T can capture video at a maximum SVGA resolution of 800x592 at 30fps in MPEG-4 format. The new L-cameras are capable of 14 preset scene modes. The L83T stores 19MB of internal memory, while the L830 holds 16MB of built-in memory. Both Samsung cameras accept SD and SDHC media.

Samsung Announces New S85 8MP Digicam

Samsung has announced the entry-level S85 point-and-shoot digital camera. Much like the L830 and L83T, the new S-series camera carries an 8MP sensor and face detection, while adding a midrange 5x optical zoom lens. The Samsung S85 will retail for $229 when the camera becomes available in September.

The new S85 includes Samsung’s Advanced Shake Reduction image stabilization system and Wise Shot mode. The Wise Shot function automatically shoots two photos in succession - one with the ASR mode and another with the flash. The camera possesses face detection technology that recognizes up to nine faces and adjusts auto focus and exposure accordingly.

The camera includes built-in editing functions including an “E” button that controls rotation, contrast, color filter, and red-eye correction, among other internal controls. The S85 also possesses a “Fun” feature that saves four images as one photo.

The S85 camera has a movie mode VGA resolution of 640x480 at 30fps and 14 scene modes. The Samsung S85 has a 20MB internal memory, is compatible with AA batteries, and accepts SD and SDHC media.

New 8MP Optio Digicams From Pentax

Pentax has announced two new Optio point-and-shoot cameras featuring 8MP sensors.

The Optio M40 sports a slim metallic body, 8MP resolution, a 3× optical zoom, and a 2.5-inch LCD display. The camera is designed to appeal to both entry-level and experienced digital camera users, offering digital shake reduction, and auto-macro feature, and face recognition technology designed to keep your friends (and even your enemies) recognizable in candid photos. The camera has decent low-light capability—sensitivity down to ISO 1600 (3200 with shake reduction) and can capture QuickTime video. The Optio M40 offers USB 2.0 output, NTSC/PAL video out, and PictBridge compatibility; the camera packs over 20 MB of internal memory, and stores images to SD and SDHC media.

Meanwhile, the Optio E40 is aimed at those new to digital cameras, offering an 8.1MP resolution, a 2.4-inch LCD display, and a 3× optical zoom along with digital shake reduction and face recognition. The E40 runs off AA batteries, offers 10 MB of internal memory and stores images to SD and SDHC media.

The Optio M40 should by available in August at a suggested price of $199.95; expect to see the Optio E40 in September at a suggested price of $149.99.

New Shoe-Mount Strobe Modifiers From David Honl

Rob Galbraith has posted some information regarding new shoe-mount strobe light modifiers available from Photojournalist David Honl. This line of affordable modifiers includes snoots and gobos that can be used as bounce cards or barndoors.

Attached to the flash using a Velcro Speed Strap, these modifiers don’t damage the strobe unit at all. These look like great additions to any photographer’s arsenal and can be purchased directly from David Honl’s website. Read more about them on Rob’s Digital Photography Insights blog which features direct links to these great products.
image by David Honl

Monday, July 09, 2007

It's Been A Hard Road For Arizona Highways

Dennis Wagner in a recent Arizona Republic article writes about the ongoing trouble over at local photo favorite ‘Arizona Highways.’ Here is an excerpt.

…The state-owned magazine's circulation has dropped an average of 10 percent annually during the past four years. It operates at a deficit. Arizona lawmakers have raided reserve funds to a point where almost nothing is left.

A financial outlook prepared earlier this year shows a million-dollar debt by 2010. And Publisher Win Holden says he already has cut everywhere possible, reducing the staff by 45 percent.

What remains unclear is whether Arizona Highways, arguably the most famous publication of its kind, faces a withering death, a sale to private enterprise or some sort of rescue…

Read the entire article on azcentral.com.