martedì 31 gennaio 2012

Rumor: Pentax will announce a K-r replacement at the CP+ show next week

Penatx DSLR cameras Rumor: Pentax will announce a K r replacement at the CP+ show next week
In addition to the mirrorless K-01, there are rumors about a new DSLR camera from Pentax that will replace the already discontinued K-r model. The announcement is expected to be at the CP+ show in Japan next week.

Nikon D4 Hands-On


Nikon D4
So, I hear that this new Nikon camera is a pretty big deal…
I had a few minutes to get acquainted with the new Nikon D4 at CES 2012, and I’m finally getting around to sharing my first impressions from this hands-on time.
As you probably know by now, the Nikon D4 is continuing down the same path blazed by the D3 and D3s.  It’s not a revolutionary change from the D3s, but rather a solid evolution to the next generation of DSLRs.
The Nikon D4 remains conservative on resolution, bumping it up to only 16.1MP (up from 12.1MP on the D3s).  Note that Canon’s flagship 1D X sports an 18MP sensor, which puts the cameras at what is practically the same resolution for the sake of real world comparisons.
Of course, low light ISO performance has taken the limelight in recent years when comparing cameras head-to-head.  And, if early sample images out of the gate are anything to go by, it looks like the Nikon D4 is set to carry on the tradition of the low light king amongst DSLRs.  Frankly though, I think the D4 and 1D X are going to be close to splitting hairs again (as was the case with the Nikon D3s and Canon 1D Mark IV . . . see my 3-part series: 1, 2, 3).
The Nikon D4 offers a sensitivity range of ISO 50-204,800 (with expansion enabled).  The official sample images at ISO 6400 look great.  I’m really interested to see what happens beyond that, because my first look at the 1D X showed some very impressive results at ISO 12800.  In the end, I think both Nikon and Canon’s new machines are going to give us a couple stops advantage over their respective predecessors.
While Nikon says it has advanced the D4′s AF system to the “next generation,” I’ll reserve judgment until I can comment on my actual experience in a challenging AF environment.  Of course, if it’s at least as good as the D3s, we’re in for a real treat.  In my opinion, the D3s was the AF king of the last generation.  It will be interesting to see how the advancements from the D3s AF system stacks up against the completely redesigned AF system on the Canon 1D X.
Nikon D4
When I first picked up the Canon 1D X, I was surprised by how much heavier that it was over the Canon 1D Mark IV.  When I picked up the Nikon D4 for the first time, I was blown away by how light it was.
Nikon D4 Magnesium Alloy Frame
Then, when I got ahold of the D4′s frame all by its lonesome, I realized where Nikon shaved the weight.  The camera’s magnesium alloy frame seems to weigh less than an origami recreation of the D4 would.  I’m convinced that frame must be part angel hair and part black magic to be this light.
Nikon D4 EXPEED 3
While there are many evolutionary advancements on the Nikon D4, the most notable advancements have to be the shellacking that Nikon has handed to Canon on the D4′s video capture feature set.  Just three months ago, Chuck Westfall told me that the reason the Canon 1D X couldn’t offer a clean HDMI-output signal was due to the processing power limitations.  Those limitations include a pair of Canon DIGIC 5+ processors, along with a separate DIGIC 4 processor that is solely dedicated to metering.
Nikon D4 Headphone Jack and HDMI-Out
If the 1D X is so limited with 3 processors, then how is it that the Nikon D4 spits out a clean HDMI feed with its EXPEED 3 processor?  Is Nikon really that far ahead of Canon in processor development?  Or maybe Canon is just playing coy and doesn’t want to chew into its diversified market?
Another obvious improvement that Canon missed the mark with its 1D X was the inclusion of a headphone output.  While it’s true that most serious HDSLR setups are arranged for dual-system capture, there are many times when it’s ok to record on-board audio for production use.  The improvement of small shotgun mics like the Rode VideoMic Pro and the coming Rode VideoMic HD are making it more and more feasible to use on-camera audio.
With the D4, it’s clear that Nikon gets this HDSLR thing.  That’s +2 for Nikon in the video department for those keeping score at home.  And, those aren’t little points either.  These are two big things that HDSLR shooters have been asking for since the Canon 5D Mark II busted onto the scene 3.5 years ago.  While Nikon is listening to the market in the design of its flagship HDSLR, Canon has been caught asleep at the wheel.
One thing that I was surprised to hear was that Nikon has no “cinema” style of camera presets.  I was told that the “Neutral” profile could be used, or that users could create their own.  I imagine that it won’t be long before someone cozies up to Nikon for some sort of official partnership in a fashion similar to Technicolor’s Cinestyle for Canon.  Either that, or someone will bust into an online forum with solid breakdown in presets created with Nikon’s software to be loaded onto the D4.
Another slick feature on the Nikon D4 is the stepless aperture adjustment.  I couldn’t really believe it until I saw it; however, it is sexy.  By making a selection in the menu system, you can pull the lens iris via the depth-of-field preview and function buttons on the front of the camera with your right hand.  To my eye, the adjustments were genuinely stepless. The big downside, however, is that you cannot adjust the aperture in this manner when recording to onboard memory cards.  You can only make use of it when capturing to an external HDMI recorder.  A bit of a bummer for an otherwise killer feature.
For those thinking about an external recorder, the new Blackmagic Hyperdeck Shuttle 2 looks like a great (and affordable) companion to the D4.  It runs about $350 and uses ordinary SSD drives as interchangeable storage.  Other options include the Atomos Ninja 2, which has a built-in external monitor as part of the package.
Nikon finally has a resounding answer to all the HDSLR shooters wondering when Nikon was coming to the party.
Nikon D4
That’s all I’ve got for now on the Nikon D4 until I get more time with it. Lot’s more close-up images of the D4 in the gallery below.
The Nikon D4 is available from Photography Bay’s trusted retail partner, B&H Photo, at the following links:
Nikon D4 at B&H Photo
By making your photography purchases at B&H Photo through these links, you are helping Photography Bay to continue bring quality camera tests, news and reviews. Thanks for your continued support.
Via:http://www.photographybay.com

Holga 135 PAN

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The Holga 135 PAN is the first Holga to feature interchangeable lenses. The camera shoots 24x72mm size panoramic images on 35mm film, and comes with a 55mm f/8 lens as well as an f/236 pinhole “lens” with a diameter of 0.25mm. The 55mm lens offers two aperture settings, f8 (wide open) and f11 (stopped down), and features a leaf shutter with a fixed 1/100s shutter speed. The Holga 135 PAN is sells for $89.99 through the website below, with a “Deluxe Kit” also available for $115.99.
Website: HolgaDirect

Fujifilm X-S1 Now Available in UK

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The Fujifilm X-S1 superzoom is now on sale in the UK. Featuring a 2/3”, 12-megapixel CMOS sensor and a 24-624mm equivalent lens, the Fujifilm X-S1 also offers a high-resolution EVF, articulated rear screen, flash hot shoe, full manual controls, raw image capture and Full HD video. Coupled to the EXR CMOS sensor is the high speed EXR processor, which offers a minimal shutter lag of just 0.01sec and a high-speed continuous shooting capability of 7fps at full resolution or 10fps in six megapixel mode. The suggested retail price is £699.
Fujifilm Press Release
Great results in every picture-taking scenario
The centrepiece of the X-S1 is the superb Fujinon 26x optical zoom lens. Offering a range of 24-624mm (35mm equivalent) it caters perfectly for every photographic need and features a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture at the wide-angle setting.
The X-S1 also features the same 2/3-inch 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor as the X10 which guarantees high quality images regardless of the lighting conditions.
The unique EXR CMOS technology pioneered by Fujifilm allows the user to switch between three modes – High Resolution, Wide Dynamic Range and High Sensitivity/Low Noise - depending on the lighting conditions – or leave the camera to make its own choice in the Auto EXR mode.
Coupled to the EXR CMOS sensor is a Fujifilm high speed EXR processor, which offers a minimal shutter lag of just 0.01sec and a high speed continuous shooting capability.
Easy composition and image review
The X-S1 offers a powerful combination of high quality electronic viewfinder (EVF) and rear LCD.  The 0.47-inch EVF features 1.44 million pixels for superb image clarity, while the tiltable 3-inch LCD screen features 460,000 pixels and useful Daylight mode.
Fujifilm X-S1 key features
• High quality Fujinon 26x optical zoom covering 24-624mm (35mm equivalent) with Intelligent Digital Zoom boosting range up to 1248mm
• Superb build quality and finish with rubberised coating and metal dials
• 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor
• Up to 10 frames-per-second shooting
• Large EVF with 1.44 million pixels and 26 degree viewing angle
• Tiltable three-inch rear LCD with Sunny Day mode
• Full HD video
• PASM modes
• Raw file format
• Film simulation modes
• Macro focusing down to 1cm
• Lithium battery providing up to 500 shots per charge
• Optical image stabilisation
• 360° Motion Panorama mode

Kenko 400mm f/8 Mirror Lens

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Kenko Tokina has announced the upcoming release of the new Kenko 400mm f8 mirror lens for Micro Four Thirds and Sony’s NEX system. Being only 112mm in length, the Kenko 400mm f8 is rather compact for a super-telephoto lens. Like the majority of existing mirror lenses, this is a manual-focus lens with a fixed aperture and a machined aluminium barrel. The Kenko 400mm f/8 takes 67mm filters, and can focus down to 1.15m, at which point it offers an impressive reproduction ratio of 1:2.5. The lens will be released in Japan this Thursday.
The company also offers the lens in Canon EF, Nikon F and Pentax K mounts. The SLR version of the Kenko 400mm f/8 lens is, interestingly, even smaller than the CSC variant, being only 82mm in length. It also differs from the MFT and Sony versions in having an all-black finish.
Source: Kenko Tokina

lunedì 30 gennaio 2012

Sigma Founder Dies at 78

Sigma has announced the passing of Sigma Corporation’s founder and CEO Michihiro Yamaki. He died of liver cancer on 18th January at the age of 78. In 1961, Yamaki developed the first-ever rear attached lens converter and founded Sigma to commercialise the product. At that time, most photo enthusiasts believed that a lens converter could only be attached to the front of a camera lens and the 27-year-old optical engineer turned conventional optical theory on its head. In the next five decades, Yamaki grew the family-owned organisation into a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of lenses, cameras and flashes. The company is now known as the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 50 current lens models. Sigma Corporation celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011 with Yamaki still at the company’s helm.
Sigma Press Release
Sigma Corporation of America Announces the Passing of Michihiro Yamaki
Imaging manufacturer’s pioneering CEO, founder led company for more than 50 years
RONKONKOMA, N.Y.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—With great sadness, Sigma Corporation of America today announced the passing of Sigma Corporation’s founder and CEO Michihiro Yamaki. He died of liver cancer in Tokyo, Japan, on Jan. 18 at the age of 78.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Mr. Yamaki was an industry visionary, and his leadership and enthusiasm has been the driving force behind our company’s innovation for more than 50 years. We’re sending our deepest condolences to the Yamaki family, and our entire Sigma family around the world, during this very difficult time.”
Yamaki founded Sigma Corporation on Sept. 9, 1961 with the development of the first-ever rear attached lens converter. At that time, most photo enthusiasts believed that a lens converter could only be attached to the front of a camera lens and the 27-year-old optical engineer turned conventional optical theory on its head. Sigma Corporation celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011 with Yamaki still at the company’s helm.
Throughout his years in the photo industry, Yamaki has been focused on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. His goal for the company has always been to make outstanding image quality accessible to all photographers. To this end, he grew the family-owned organization into a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of lenses, cameras and flashes. The company is now known as the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 50 current lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax and Sony.
In 2008, under Yamaki’s direction, Sigma Corporation purchased Foveon, a California-based company that’s renowned for developing the X3 image sensor technology. This patented, three-layer image sensor captures all primary RGB colors at each pixel location arranged in three layers to deliver outstanding, high-resolution, high-definition images with impressive three-dimensional detail and rich gradation. Last year, the company announced the arrival of its SD1, a groundbreaking, 46-megapixel direct image sensor camera, offering more megapixels than any other DSLR currently on the market. Sigma Corporation continued its theme of addressing gaps in the industry and the needs of photographers by kicking off 2012 with the launch of its new, Digital Neo (DN) line of lenses for Micro Four Thirds and E-mount camera systems.
In addition to his inventions and photographic foresight, Yamaki made many other contributions to the industry in his 78 years of life. He served organizations such as: the Japan Photographic Enterprises Association, Japan Machinery Design Center, Japan Optomechatronics Association, Photographic Society of Japan, and Japan Camera Industry Institute. He has also been honored with the “Person of the Year” award from The Photoimaging Manufacturers & Distributors Association (PMDA), the “Hall of Fame” award from the International Photographic Council (IPC), and the Golden Photokina Pin for his longtime contribution to the imaging industry.
About Sigma Corporation
For more than 50 years, Sigma Corporation’s expertise and innovation has driven the company’s core philosophy of “knowledge, plus experience, plus imagination,” with an emphasis on producing high-quality, high-performance photographic technology at moderate prices. This family-owned organization is the largest, independent SLR lens manufacturer in the world, producing more than 40 lenses that are compatible with most manufacturers, including Sigma, Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic and Pentax. Sigma Corporation also produces digital SLR cameras and high-definition digital compact cameras. The company is headquartered in Japan, with offices strategically located throughout Europe, Asia and North America. For information, please visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX200V

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The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX200V is an 18.2-megapixel dust-and waterproof ultra-compact camera with extremely fast auto focus, 5x optical zoom, optical Steady Shot functionality and Full HD movie capture. The high-speed Exmor CMOS sensor and BIONZ branded processor enable the camera to record 18-megapixel stills at 10 frames per second. The sensor’s fast signal throughput also enables the camera to achieve “DSLR-like focusing speeds,” the company claims. Waterproof to a depth of 16 feet (nearly 5 metres), the camera features a sleek, polished glass camera front without protruding lenses or control buttons, making it one of the thinnest cameras in its class. Other highlights include an internally stacked zoom lens, on-board GPS and compass, as well as a background defocus filter that allows the camera to simulate the shallow depth of field achievable with larger-sensor cameras and fast/long lenses. The Sony TX200V will be available from March, at an MSRP of $499.99.

Sony Cyber-shot WX70/WX50

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The Sony Cyber-shot WX70 and WX50 are two new 16.2-megapixel compact cameras with 5x optical zoom, optical image stabilisation and Full HD video. The easily pocketable Sony WX50 ($200, pictured) and WX70 ($230) feature Extra High Sensitivity technology that expands your photo opportunities, especially in dimly-lit conditions. With these cameras, Sony claims a massive reduction in noise levels, adding that “you’ll see the difference with crisp, beautifully natural low-light shots”. Other highlights include a number of digital filter effects such as Toy Camera, Partial Colour, Pop Colour, HDR Painting, Miniature, Illustration, Watercolour, Soft High-key and Rich-tone Monochrome; plus features like 3D Sweep Panorama, 3D Still Image and an “Xtra Fine” LCD touchscreen (DSC-WX70 only - the Sony WX50 has a 2.7” rear monitor with half the resolution and no touch-based functions). Both cameras come with PlayMemories Home software pre-installed. Availability is slated for mid-March.
Sony Press Release
Higher picture quality, higher sensitivity: Slim, power-packed Cyber-shot™ WX70/WX50 cameras from Sony grab even more amazing moments
30 January 2012
  * 16.2 megapixel Exmor R™ CMOS sensor for extremely high resolution, low noise images and Full HD video
  * Extra High Sensitivity for clear images in dimly-lit conditions
  * Optical SteadyShot with Active Mode for steadiest ever handheld Full HD video, even when zooming
  * Superior Auto for professional-looking results in any situation
  * Detail-packed close-ups with 5x Optical Zoom and 10x Clear Image Zoom
  * Expanded choice of Picture Effect modes
Everyone can capture ultra-high quality still images and detail-packed Full HD video with two slim, advanced new Cyber-shot™ cameras from Sony.
Slipping effortlessly into a pocket, the colourful WX70 and WX50 further expand the choice of Cyber-shot™ models equipped with the ultra-sensitive, high performance 16.2 megapixel Exmor R™ CMOS sensor. It’s teamed with the latest BIONZ processor from Sony that assures speedy shooting responses and flawless, low-noise images – even in low light. Both cameras are crammed with easy-to-use features for anyone who’s serious about capturing great-looking photos and Full HD video with less effort.
New to Cyber-shot™ this year, Extra High Sensitivity technology expands your photo opportunities, especially in dimly-lit conditions*1. Maximum sensitivity is now boosted to ISO 12800, giving more opportunities for spontaneous handheld shooting without flash. In addition, noise levels are slashed to a sixth of previous Cyber-shot™ models*2. You’ll see the difference with crisp, beautifully natural low-light shots, from atmospheric portraits to interiors.
Now more advanced than ever, Optical SteadyShot adds Active Mode that’s combined with electronic stabilisation to combat camera shake when you’re shooting Full HD movies. It’s even effective at high zoom settings where other image stabilisation systems struggle to deliver clear, blur-free handheld video footage.
Superior Auto Mode takes the guesswork out of achieving professional results in virtually any situation. Detecting the current scene and shooting conditions, Cyber-shot™ automatically adjusts exposure and other camera settings for superb images with low noise and high dynamic range.
By Pixel Super Resolution technology from Sony doubles the 5x optical zoom range of the Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar lens without sacrificing image quality. With up to 10x Clear Image Zoom you’ll enjoy detail-packed close-ups without the artificial blockiness that mars conventional digital zoom.
It’s easy to create stunning ‘in-camera’ creative effects with no PC or image editing software needed. Picture Effect mode now offers an expanded palette of creative options including Toy Camera, Partial Colour, Pop Colour, HDR Painting, Miniature, Illustration, Watercolour, Soft High-key and Rich-tone Monochrome.
3D Sweep Panorama and 3D Still Image add an extra dimension of enjoyment to your shooting options. Slip on your active shutter glasses and enjoy the results on your 3D TV or 3D VAIO® Series PC.
Cyber-shot™ WX70 adds the luxurious refinement of a clear, large, photo-realistic 7.5cm Xtra Fine LCD touchscreen to frame, review and adjust your images.
Both cameras come with PlayMemories Home software pre-installed. Just connect Cyber-shot™ to your PC for easy viewing, editing, printing, emailing, web uploads, disc burning and more.
The range of compatible accessories for Cyber-shot™ now includes a new choice of carry cases that offer stylish, practical protection.
The slim, advanced new Cyber-shot™ WX70 and WX50 digital compact cameras by Sony are available in Europe from mid-March 2012.

*1 Realised by combining ‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ with pixel interpolation and superimposing technology. Effects and image details may not reproduce well depending on subject and/or shooting conditions.
*2 Approximate figure, based on Sony testing. Simulated results when compared with Cyber-shot models employing conventional noise reduction.

domenica 29 gennaio 2012

*UPDATE* New High-End DSLR Later in February [CR3]

*UPDATE* New High-End DSLR Later in February [CR3]
*UPDATE*
Invites have gone out to Canon Platinum CPS members to prioritize purchases of the new EOS-1D X. This is most likely the CPS event we’ve been told about.
For the launch of the Canon EOS-1D X, Canon would like to offer priority purchase for CPS Platinum members, as our most valued customers, we want to ensure we continue to add value to the CPS program where we can.
Not on February 7 [CR3]
There will not be a 5D Mark III or similar announced on February 7, 2012.  It is suggested the “embargo” lift on the 7th may be for samples from the EOS-1D X.
Lenses [CR2]
Another 24-70 f/2.8L II mention came my way. It will be announced with a DSLR.
More to come.

*UPDATE* 5D Mark III – February 7, 2012 [CR2]

*UPDATE* 5D Mark III – February 7, 2012 [CR2]
*UPDATE 2*
Another source highly doubts February 7, 2012 is the date for an announcement. All the little bits of information that are leaking say it’s close, but it may not be that close. Please do not treat February 7, 2012 as fact until I can [CR3] it.
*UPDATE*
Another source says it’s odd that Canon & Nikon would announce on the same day.  I have yet to see an actual invite to a press event for February 7, 2012. Good people are saying it’s coming that day, my gut is telling me otherwise. I do think the camera will be announced well before the 1D X ships.
More mentions
A few more people have mentioned February 7, 2012 as the announcement date for the 5D Mark III. The sources are good, though I am waiting for the definitive word on the matter.
It’s mentioned that Canon will also announce new PowerShot cameras, a new Legria camcorder and Selphy printer(s).
Kevin Wang, based in Taiwan, posted on his Facebook wall that he will be an official photographer for the 5D Mark III. (thanks Hansen)
5D Mark III Specs
If I put together everything I have heard, these are the specs of the 5D Mark III.
  • 22mp
  • 61pt AF
  • 7.5fps (this I’ve only seen once)
  • DIGIC 5+
  • New Battery Grip with Joystick
  • GPS Ready
No lenses were mentioned for the announcement date of the 5D Mark III. However, a solid source that reported the 24-70 f/2.8L II and 35 f/1.4L II a month or so ago, says both lenses will be shipping sometime in April. Lenses have always been the toughest to nail down.

*UPDATE* Canon Pixma Pro-1 Review Sneak Peek

*UPDATE*
The review will have to wait, as my Pixma Pro-1 is broken. Something is wrong with the paper feed as I am getting scraping down various kinds of paper. 285, 310 & 325 GSM paper are all showing the issue. The obvious cleaning and maintenance has been performed, and the issue is not improving. I have also attempted manual feed and rear feed, and that isn’t changing the outcome either.
Canon Pixma Pro-1 Review Sneak Peek
I have finally received my Canon Pixma Pro-1 A3+ printer, and an extra ink set. I’m very excited to get some printing done with it this weekend. This is a bit of a sneak peak, as I’ll work on the full review as I work with it this weekend.
First Impressions
Bring a friend to the store if you’re going to pick one up. The box is huge and it must weigh 80lbs. It’s probably the largest and heaviest A3+ printer ever made.
The printer itself is quite nice to look at it, very clean and looks extremely well built. Could a printer be beautiful? This one may be.
The box is packed nice and tidy and it was easy to get out and onto a table, or desk. The initial setup was a breeze, and the printer appears to be relatively quiet. The ink cartridges are pretty large for an A3+ printer and are very well built. I paid $400 for a set of 12 ink cartridges, I have no idea if that’s good until we get into how much ink the printer will use. I always found the Pixma 9500 Mark II to be ink hungry, or the cartridges too small. I always had to have lots of backups if I got into a weekend print session.
I will spend the next couple of days playing around and will have a full review ready to go Sunday night (pressure or what?).
The Canon Pixma Pro-1 is in stock at B&H for $999
Canon Pixma Pro-1 Box
Canon Pixma Pro-1 Goodies
Canon Pixma Pro-1
Via: http://www.canonrumors.com

Canon EOS-1D X Delayed?

Canon EOS-1D X Delayed?
April 2012 Release?
From Calumet in the UK, comes word that the Canon EOS-1D X may not be shipping until April. I had heard that previously, and it’s not overly shocking.
No word on why the camera may be delayed.
Canon EOS-1D X at B&H

Nick Saglimbeni Brings Back PhotoKamp LA Workshop

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Celebrity photographer Nick Saglimbeni has announced the return of his PhotoKamp workshop to Los Angeles. Taking place from 20-22 April, PhotoKamp is a two-and-a-half-day intensive learning workshop, with special emphasis on both studio and location lighting as well as the business of photography. The studio lighting sessions will be held at the world famous SlickforceStudio in downtown LA. The photoshoots will take place on location in the city. By the end of the weekend, participants will have the chance to light and photograph their own photoshoot with professional models, with the supervision of Nick and his team. The full price is $2,699. Early registration pricing is available for students who register by 15 February. For more pricing and information, visit the website below.
Website: PhotoKamp
Press Release
Nick Saglimbeni’s PhotoKamp returns to Los Angeles this April
The celebrity photographer offers his weekend workshop, teaching top skills on how to navigate through the cutthroat photography industry.
January 18, 2012 — LOS ANGELES, CA — Celebrity photographer Nick Saglimbeni is bringing back his PhotoKamp LA workshop by popular demand. PhotoKamp is a two and a half day intensive learning workshop, with special emphasis on both studio and location lighting as well as the business of photography. Over the weekend, participants will have the opportunity to watch Nick light, and assist him during a professional photoshoot. By the end of the weekend, participants will have the chance to light and photograph their own photoshoot with professional models, with the supervision of Nick and his team.
When: PhotoKamp LA will take place April 20-22, 2012 in Los Angeles, CA. The studio lighting learning process will take place at the world famous SlickforceStudio in downtown LA. The photoshoots will take place on location in LA.
Who: Nick Saglimbeni is the longtime photographer for the Kardashian family, shooting numerous shoots including their annual Christmas card, Sears Campaign, and more. In addition to the Kardashians, Saglimbeni has shot for numerous high-profile magazines and brands including People, Ocean Drive, Hamptons, The Wall Street Journal, Maxim, OK, LA Confidential, Photoshop User, and the New York Times, establishing himself as one of the most sought-after photographers today. His work has also appeared on Larry King Live, The Huffington Post, Keeping Up with Kardashians, E! News, The Soup, Extra and Inside Edition.  Saglimbeni is also recognized for his charity work and has photographed campaigns for the Breast Cancer Charities of America (BCCA) and PETA. He has photographed both national and international campaigns for Skechers, Sears, Wacom and Nuvo.
Saglimbeni has recently teamed up with investor Howard Misle to created World’s Most Beautiful magazine—the world’s first fully 3D magazine available in print and digital formats. The magazine introduces readers to the world’s most beautiful people, places, high fashion, entertainment and more, all captured using the Saglimbeni3D.
Early registration pricing will be available for students who register by February 15. For more pricing and information, please visit: http://www.photokamp.com/.
For more info on Nick Saglimbeni, please visit his website:
http://nicksaglimbeni.com/
For more info on World’s Most Beautiful, please click here:
http://www.worldsmostbeautiful.com/index.php/

Topaz Star Effects

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Topaz Labs have just released Topaz Star Effects, a Photoshop plug-in that manipulates and enhances light sources to create radiant lighting and star effects. “With an advanced detection algorithm powering Star Effects, we have developed a simple and intuitive way to recognize hundreds of light sources at once, along with the choice to selectively amplify sources,” says Dr. He Yang, Senior Software Designer at Topaz Labs. “Star Effects has the most comprehensive tool set available, allowing for users to create both natural, accurate renditions or more dramatic, graphic effects.“The program is $29.99, with a trial version available for free.
Website: Topaz Star Effects
Topaz Press Release
Topaz Labs Announces Topaz Star Effects™, a Lighting Enhancement and Star Creation Software
Topaz Labs Releases Topaz Star Effects™, An Easy-to-Use and Comprehensive Software Plug-in That Creates Unique Lighting and Star Effects
DALLAS—(BUSINESS WIRE) - -Topaz Labs announces the release of Topaz Star Effects™, a Photoshop Plug-in that manipulates and enhances light sources to create radiant lighting and star effects. Using a leading-edge technology that automatically recognizes light sources, Topaz Star Effects™ provides a fast and effective way to creatively embellish points of light in an image.
“Star Effects™ is the most customizable and inclusive star filter out there right now. With adjustments like star type, glow, ring flare and color controls, the program allow for users to create effects from realistic sun flares and glowing water to more obvious, artistic additions,” said Nichole Paschal, Senior Marketing Specialist for Topaz Labs. “Plus the ability to selectively add and remove these effects, in a single click, is easy to understand and an important aspect to Star Effects™.”
“With an advanced detection algorithm powering Star Effects™, we have developed a simple and intuitive way to recognize hundreds of light sources at once, along with the choice to selectively amplify sources. Star Effects™ has the most comprehensive tool set available, allowing for users to create both natural, accurate renditions or more dramatic, graphic effects,” said Dr. He Yang, Senior Software Designer at Topaz Labs.
The comprehensive and customizable tool set in Topaz Star Effects™ offers a simple and intuitive workflow that results in quick enhancements to your light sources. It is a plug-in that works with a variety of host programs including Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Aperture, iPhoto and Lightroom. Topaz Star Effects™ retails for $29.99, and will be discounted to $19.99 until 2/15/12. For more information about Topaz Star Effects™, visit the homepage at http://www.topazlabs.com/stareffects.
Topaz Labs LLC, a privately owned company in Dallas, Texas, is an innovative provider of advanced image and video enhancement technology. With today’s widespread use of digital still cameras, digital video cameras, and HDTV, the need for high-quality digital images and videos has greatly increased. Topaz Labs’ mission is to bring practical state-of-the-art image and video enhancement technology to both photography and videography professionals and consumers.