Adorama Ships New Glow Series

Adorama is now shipping its brand new photography diffusion and accessories line, Glow by Flashpoint. The range offers softboxes in varying shapes and sizes, including the Grand Softbox in two different sizes, and unique HexaPop products, which combine the flattering diffusion of a softbox with the soft focused light from the reflective, curved surface of an umbrella, the company says. Also available in the Glow by Flashpoint collection are the Glow Speed Rings for Bowens and for Balcar/White Lightning. Glow by Flashpoint products are now available in the Adorama store, located at 42 West 18th Street in New York City, and online at the Adorama website.

Website: Adorama

Adorama Press Release

Studio Lighting Modifiers: New Glow Series Now Being Shipped by Adorama

The brand new Glow line from Adorama offers photographers high quality, professional studio and on-location lighting accessories at amazing prices

New York, NY – August 28, 2013 – Adorama (http://www.adorama.com/), one of the world’s largest photography, video, imaging and electronics retailers, recently launched its brand new photography diffusion and accessories line, Glow by Flashpoint (more info). Adorama’s brand new line of professional studio and on-location lighting modifiers employs advanced technology designed to create perfect editorial and product still life images. Glow by Flashpoint offers softboxes (more info) in varying shapes and sizes, including the Grand Softbox in two different sizes, and unique HexaPop products (more info), which combine the flattering diffusion of a softbox with the soft focused light from the reflective, curved surface of an umbrella. All Glow lighting accessories are completely heat resistant and are designed with superior construction and materials, including a super-strength, silver, gridded fabric lining the interior surfaces of the box that adds a crisp quality to the output. Made in Korea, these new lighting accessories from Adorama are available now exclusively in the Adorama store, located at 42 West 18th Street in New York City, and online at Adorama.com at highly competitive prices.

Glow – R Series

Every Glow – R Series product features removable double diffusers with extremely soft, even light spread that is contrast-balanced. Reinforced support rod pockets, seams and Velcro closures make assembly and setup trouble-free.

The unique Glow Grand Softboxes feature a construction of parabolic design, creating a light source that imitates natural sunlight. The highlight/shadow ratio is optimized with a concentrated focus of illumination from the special bowl reflector and reverse umbrella design. Both the 71” and 47” Grand Softboxes combine the strength of a key light while acting as a great reflector, maximizing a single light source into a blaze of directed soft light. The super even coverage is perfect for larger groups and objects. The design features exceptional light efficiency with flattering results.

The Glow 71” Grand Softbox optimizes the extreme potential of studio strobes, whether covering live, unpredictable action or simply large-scale location illumination. It can also be used for typical fashion, portrait and beauty photography. The Glow 47” Grand Softbox is perfect for brilliantly lit, full-length fashion, portrait and beauty photography. By adding the gridded outer diffuser shield, photographers can transform the overall wash of sharper light into a less harsh mood.

The Glow Strip Rectangle – R Series Softboxes are specifically able to isolate the glow effect, not only used as a directional soft light source but as a specialty rectangular shape in reflective and translucent objects. This unique, oblong softbox comes in three different sizes – 12” x 36”, 16” x 48”, and 30” x 60”. Each of the Glow Strip Rectangle Softboxes creates a tower of light that limits coverage to create a more dramatic effect. They are ideal for photographing people in isolated light treatment where controlled contrast is desired, when working with glass and metallic objects, and when sharper fall-off occurs.

Glow Rectangle – R Series Softboxes are designed as the softbox standard for studio and location situations where diffused light is desired. A mainstay for any photographer’s lighting kit, these rectangular softboxes are available in three different sizes: 24” x 36”, 36” x 48”, and 40” x 56”. The remarkably even light covers larger objects in a still life setting and creates smooth fall-off effects when used as an overhead light bank on a boom. The Glow Rectangle – R Series Softboxes from Adorama are also great as a rectangular shape in reflective and translucent objects.

Adorama also offers the Glow Square Softbox – R Series, a prime “harder” soft light for studio and location shooting where diffusion is desired but richer contrasts suggest more direct lighting. While rectangular softboxes create a more “open window” look, smaller banks focus more intensity into the scene – making the 28” x 28” square softbox from Glow a must-have lighting solution for any photographer.

The ultimate one-source “people” light, the Glow Softbox Octo – R Series combines the strength of a portrait key light while acting as a soft wrap, blending perfectly with additional fill soft lights. Available in three different sizes – 24”, 36” and 60” – the highlight/shadow ratio of Adorama’s octagonal softboxes is optimized with a concentrated focus of illumination from the special bowl reflector and reverse umbrella design. The smallest of the bunch, the 24” adds slightly more “pop” to contrast due to its tight reflector spec, while the 60” is an optimal tool for mastering on-location shoots, imitating natural light.

Glow HexaPop – the Marriage of Softboxes and Umbrellas

Softboxes diffuse and spread light through baffles and reflection. As the nature of the source light is more widely distributed, the light reaches all surfaces with less contrast, filling in details and shadows at the expense of ill-defined contours. Umbrellas produce soft, focused light from their reflected, curved surfaces. The sharper quality of directional light beams makes for a more seductive treatment of people and skin tones. Light aimed at the umbrella’s center focal point bounces off the internal surfaces at different angles, but leaves the umbrella as parallel rays.

The marriage of the softbox to the umbrella, Glow HexaPop lighting solutions offer a parabolic umbrella that does not cast divergent or convergent light, creating more natural, sun-like shadows and fill light. The reflector shape directs all the light in one controllable direction, while the added diffuser softens the light, creating an incredibly flattering result.

The Glow HexaPop, available in 20” and 24” sizes, brings flattering, soft and rich color lighting to normally harsh, direct on-camera flash. It can be used as a key light off-camera with a remote trigger, or attached to hot shoe camera automation with a camera bracket and cable. The lightweight HexaPop opens easily and locks to create the perfect reflector diffuser. The ultra-efficient parabolic reflector has virtually no fall-off from edge to edge. Flashpoint engineers use UV-A and UV-R diffuser materials, which are exceptionally heat resistant. The internal silver reflector fabric rivals all other flexible materials, imitating polished lame. A speedlight attaches to the speed ring assembly and aligns almost all brands of flashes.

The unique six-sided shape of the HexaPop and narrow profile provides a large 105-degree light spread in a light, space-saving package. The shadows are slight and beautifully graduated. Colors are rich and vibrant without the flat pancake “flashpan” look of direct strobe.

Speed Rings

Also available in the Glow by Flashpoint collection are the Glow Speed Rings for Bowens and for Balcar/White Lightning. Glow Speed Rings provide 360 degrees of rotation; regardless of which softbox or brand of flash is in use, full control is always achievable.

Pricing and Availability

Glow by Flashpoint products are now available in the Adorama store, located at 42 West 18th Street in New York City, and online at the Adorama website. Visit Adorama.com to learn more about pricing and availability. For more information on light modifiers and how they are affected by size, shape and control, visit the Adorama Learning Center (http://www.adorama.com/alc/0013691/article/Light-Modifiers-AdoramaTV).

TwistFlex

Creativity Backgrounds have added a new product to its range. The TwistFlex is a portable pop-up double sided photography / video background. When opened out the TwistFlex background is 2.16m x 1.79 m and folds away into a circle with a diameter of 84cm, it weighs 3kgs so it is very lightweight, it includes circular carry bag. There is a black-and-white option and a green Chroma Key version, priced at £175+VAT.

Press Release

“TwistFlex” further expands Creativity Backgrounds product line

Twistflex is a portable pop-up double sided photography / video background. Photographers will benefit from the Twistflex backgrounds as they are ideal for situations where a self-supporting wrinkle free background needs to be quickly set up, moved and packed away.

“We added Twistflex into our range in response to mobile photographers needing something quick and portable,” said Clive Bailey of Creativity Backgrounds. “Our core business is our over 50 shades of paper coloured backdrops, selling thousands of rolls to resellers and professional photographers all over the UK, Europe and Worldwide. We hope the new range, which also joins our recently added PhotoDrape and PolySilk, will inspire photographers and make their job easier.”

The Twistflex background is a cloth stretched out by the Twistflex metal outer to create a crease and wrinkle free pop up background, and is reversible chroma green or chroma blue (black and white also available).  When opened out the Twistflex background is a good size at 2.16m x 1.79 m and folds away into a circle 84cms diameter, it weighs 3kgs so it is very lightweight, it includes circular carry bag.

Video makers and greenscreen photographers will value the Chroma Key “TwistFlex” £175 +vat
http://www.photography-backgrounds.co.uk/Chroma-Key-Fabric/151100-Twistflex-Chroma-Green-and-Blue.html

The black and white option:
http://www.photography-backgrounds.co.uk/Chroma-Key-Fabric/151101-Twistflex-Black-and-White.html

There is a video tutorial to help explain how to open and fold it away too

Only £6 delivery inc vat (£5 ex vat)

Lowepro Format Camera Bag Series

Lowepro has announced a new range of shoulder bags. The Lowepro Format camera bags are available in five sizes, and offer streamlined dessigns with a variety of options for both photo and video gear, multiple pockets, interior padding, weather-resistant fabric and YKK zippers. The Lowepro Format 160  fits an SLR camera with attached kit lens and 2 extra lenses, as well as a selection of other accessories and personal devices, all for £29.99. The Format 140, 120, 110 and 100 are progressively smaller designs priced between £17.99 and £24.99. “Our new Format series addresses the protection and carrying needs of today’s new photographers and enthusiasts who like variety in their imaging gear,” said Mark Regan, Country Manager for Lowepro UK.  “These bags are designed to accommodate multiple devices – from DSLRs to CSCs to camcorders – and make it easy to adjust the fit to suit a particular shooting style or photo adventure.”
Lowepro Press Release
Lowepro’s NEW Format shoulder bag  - multi use, lightweight and modern
Want a bag that can carry all your video and photo kit?
Need weather-protection as standard?
Versatile storage inside and different carrying options a must?
Look no further than the NEW Lowepro Format camera bags series available exclusively Curry’s & PC World
Lowepro Format camera bags – available in five sizes

• Streamlined, multi-device designs offer a variety of options for both photo and video gear
• Protective inside and out, with interior padding, weather-resistant fabric and YKK zippers
• Multiple pockets offer accessible storage options
• Adjustable divider system makes it easy to customise
• Multiple carrying options: via detachable shoulder strap and grab handle

Format 160 fits a DSLR with attached kit lens and 2 extra lenses, as well as a selection of other accessories and personal devices.
Dimensions: 21(W) x 12(D) x 19.5(H) cm
Available in black priced £29.99
Format 140 fits a DSLR with attached kit lens and an extra lens, as well as a selection of other accessories and personal devices.
Dimensions: 16(W) x 9(D) x 16.5(H) cm
Available in black priced £24.99

Format 120 fits a DSLR with attached kit lens OR a complete CSC kit OR a video camera, as well as a selection of other accessories and personal devices.
Dimensions: 13(W) x 9(D) x 14.5(H) cm
Available in black priced £19.99

Format 110 fits a CSC with attached kit lens and an extra pancake lens OR a camcorder, as well as a selection of other accessories and personal devices.
Dimensions: 17.5(W) x 9(D) x 8(H) cm
Available in black priced £17.99

Format 100 fits an HOZ or CSC with its attached kit lens, as well as a selection of other accessories and personal devices.
Dimensions: 13.5(W) x 9(D) x 8(H) cm
Available in black priced £17.99
“Our new Format series addresses the protection and carrying needs of today’s new photographers and enthusiasts who like variety in their imaging gear,” said Mark Regan, Country Manager for Lowepro UK.  “These bags are designed to accommodate multiple devices – from DSLRs to CSCs to camcorders – and make it easy to adjust the fit to suit a particular shooting style or photo adventure.”

Each Format model is constructed with a padded and adjustable divider system, weather-resistant outer fabric, plus sturdy and durable YKK zippers – all to provide superior protection.

Multiple pockets offer accessible storage: a zippered exterior pocket and see-through mesh interior pocket make it easy to stash and grab go-to essentials such as spare memory, batteries, cables and lens cloths, and small personal items.

Additional features include: a grab handle; adjustable and detachable shoulder strap (160 includes padded strap); built-in key ring (160 and 140 only); and belt loop (100 only).

Available in Black the new Format series will be available to purchase exclusively from Curry’s & PC World from the end of August.
Visit http://www.currys.co.uk or www.pcworld.co.uk

Fotopro Brings New Product Line to America

Fotopro and Custom SLR have partnered to bring a new line of professional and travel ready tripods to the USA. Custom SLR will feature a full line of Fotopro tripods and monopod support systems including the C5i series and TT-1 travel tripod kits on CustomSLR.com. The C5i tripod series ($189.95) comes in a lightweight, 3.6lb. package with reversible legs for compact stowing. The kit is equipped with an Arca-Swiss 3D ball head with single-action locking and can be converted into a monopod. The TT-1 tripod kit ($199.95) comprises a lightweight X4i reversed-leg, five-section aluninium tripod, Arca-Swiss 3D ball head and a versatile travel sling bag for an SLR camera with lens and flash.
Fotopro Press Release
Fotopro Introduces a New Line of Professional and Travel Tripods to America

Fotopro and Custom SLR have partnered to bring a new line of professional and travel tripods to the United States.  Designed for professional and amateur photographers alike, the line includes the C5i tripod, which converts to a monopod and the TT-1 travel tripod kit, which includes a versatile camera sling bag.
San Francisco, CA - 09/15/2013, Fotopro, manufacturer of professional tripods, monopods and accessories, and Custom SLR, manufacturer of camera straps and innovative camera gear, have partnered to bring a new line of professional and travel ready tripods to the USA.

With over a decade of experience and distributors across the globe, Fotopro tripods are finally arriving to America, adding a new, competitive, and quality line to photographers in the states.

Good reviews, ….

"The Fotopro line complements our growing line of performance camera gear and accessories," said Ivan Wong, Chief Operating Officer at Custom SLR. "Our M-Plate tripod plates work in conjunction with FotoPro ball heads and we are excited to offer a comprehensive range of products for photographers and videographers”. Custom SLR will feature a full line of Fotopro tripods and monopod support systems including the C5i series and TT-1 travel tripod kits on CustomSLR.com.

The C5i tripod series comes in a lightweight, 3.6lb. package with reversible legs for compact stowing. The kit is equipped with an Arca-Swiss 3D ball head with single-action locking and can be converted into a monopod. The C5i will be available in five stylish colors - blue, green, red, orange and titanium, and includes a portable carrying case. Suggested retail price for the C5i is $189.95.

The TT-1 tripod kit is ideal for travelers and those looking for an ultra portable support system. It is bundled with a lightweight X4i reversed-leg, five-section aluminum tripod and Arca-Swiss 3D ball head. TT-1 tripod kit includes a versatile travel sling bag (with waist belt) for a D-SLR, lens and flash. The bag also features two zippered pouches, water bottle holder, and cell pouch, plus rain poncho. Weighs 2.6 lbs with a 11 lbs load capacity and has a max height of 57.5 inches. Suggested retail price for the TT-1 is $199.95

The new line of tripods and monopods are available now and prices start at $89.95.

For more information visit: http://www.customslr.com/collections/fotopro-tripod-and-accessories
.
About Custom SLR
Custom SLR is a photography accessories company which got its start from the crowd funding website Kickstarter.com where it successfully funded 4 projects including the C-Loop Stap Mount, Split Strap, M-Plate Universal Tripod plate, and ProDot Shutter Button Upgrade.

Marumi Exus Filters

A new flagship range of high-quality filters from Marumi, the Exus series, are now available from Kenro. Comprising a line of Lens Protect and Circular Polarising filters, the Exus series are available in 13 different diameter sizes ranging from 37mm to 82mm and feature new antistatic and anti-reflective qualities. The antistatic coating found in both new lines provides added reassurance that images won't be compromised by any clinging static, while the anti-reflective qulalities mean that the Exus Lens Protect filters are able to achieve ultra-low reflection of less than 0.3% (and less than 0.6% using the Circular Polariser). The filters have a suggested retail price which ranges from £52.92 to £120.90 and the Marumi Exus Circular Polariser filters have SRPs between £119.04 to £288.60, depending on size.
Marumi Press Release
Marumi announces launch of new flagship EXUS filter series
Kenro has announced that a new flagship line of high-quality filters from Marumi, the EXUS series, are now available.
The EXUS series, comprising a line of Lens Protect and Circular Polarising filters, are available in 13 different diameter sizes ranging from 37mm to 82mm and feature new antistatic and anti-reflective qualities to ensure both film and digital photographers are able to get the best out of their work.
The antistatic coating found in both new lines provides added reassurance that images won't be compromised by any clinging static and provide photographers with exceptionally clear images. For further protection, each filter in the EXUS series has been coated to repel water and oil, whilst also providing resistance against fingerprints and water spots.
Made in Japan, excellent image quality is attainable using filters from the EXUS range thanks to new ultra-low reflective qualities added to their design and construction. The EXUS Lens Protect filters are able to achieve ultra-low reflection of less than 0.3% (and less than 0.6% using the Circular Polariser); meaning photographers get the most accurate depiction of the image they are shooting.
The EXUS Circular Polariser line comes equipped with a host of qualities that have been designed to enhance the results of outdoor photography. Compared to a conventional polariser, light transmission has increased by 30% in EXUS models, making colours look more intense and shadows darker with improved contrast, so the view from the finder is easier to differentiate.
Another distinguishing feature of the EXUS Circular Polariser it its Teflon-coated male threads, which not only reduces excessively tight screwing of the filter and lens while shooting, but makes the process of attaching and detaching smooth and easy, saving the photographer time.
Whilst possessing protective qualities, glass found on EXUS Lens Protect filters comes with improved flatness and intensity, enhanced by Marumi's exceptionally thin frame design. Each EXUS filter also comes with a case for added protection.
Paul Kench, managing director of Kenro, made this comment: "The flagship EXUS range of filters by Marumi provides photographers with the maximum amount of options when shooting on location. Photographers can come across a variety of issues when shooting outdoors and the EXUS range addresses these key areas to ensure their best work is more easily achievable."
Kenro is the official UK and Ireland distributors for the range of Marumi photographic accessories, including filters, achromat lenses, wide angle and telephoto converter lenses and lens hoods. See http://www.kenro.co.uk for details of your nearest stockist, or call Kenro on 01793 615836 for more details.
The Marumi EXUS Lens Protect filters have a suggested retail price which ranges from £52.92 to £120.90 and the Marumi EXUS Circular Polariser filters have a suggested retail price which ranges  from £119.04 to £288.60, depending on size of filter. All lens prices include VAT and are available now.

TurnStyle Sling Bags from Think Tank Photo

Think Tank Photo have released a new sling camera bag collection, the TurnStyle. The range comprises three models, including the TurnStyle 5, the TurnStyle 10 and the TurnStyle 20. The Think Tank Photo TurnStzle 5 sling bag ($74.75) fits a compact system camera with two to four lenses plus a small tablet, the TurnStyle 10 ($84.75) accommodates a standard SLR body with one to three lenses and a small tablet, while the TurnStyle 20 ($99.75) holds a standard-sized SLR camera with one to four lenses plus a large tablet.
Website: Think Tank Photo
Think Tank Photo Press Release
Think Tank Photo Releases Lightweight TurnStyle™ Sling Camera Bags

Ideal for DSLR and Mirrorless Systems
Santa Rosa, Calif. – Think Tank Photo announces the release of a new sling camera bag collection, the TurnStyle™.  Lightweight with easy access, the three TurnStyle™ models are ideal for DSLRs and mirrorless systems. Their soft, body-conforming shape means all-day comfort and their tough water-resistant fabrics offer lasting protection. Easy rotation gives photographers fast access to their gear, including a zippered tablet pocket on all three sizes. These hybrid bags can we be worn as a shoulder sling bag or as a belt pack for increased versatility and comfort.

The fully customizable interior can be arranged for a DSLR with a 70-200 2.8 or a small mirrorless system. They hold real appeal for urban photographers who are upgrading their systems and need a bag to carry an extra lens or two. Women will love their being lightweight and yet having large carrying capacity in even the small and medium sizes. Delivering the perfect balance of form and function, TurnStyle bags have it all: comfort, versatility, style and rapid access.
Product Details
TurnStyle™ 5: Fits a mirrorless system with two to four lenses plus a small tablet. The front organizer pocket holds memory cards and other small accessories. Examples: Fuji X-Pro1 with 50mm f/1.4 attached + 38mm f/2.0 + 60mm f/2.8 with hoods reversed OR Olympus E-P2 with 14-42mm attached + 17mm f/2.8 + 40-150mm f/4-5.6 + VF-2 viewfinder + FL-14 flash.

TurnStyle™ 10: Fits a standard size DSLR with one to three lenses plus a small tablet. The front organizer pocket holds memory cards and other small accessories. Examples: Nikon D800 with 24-70 f/2.8 attached + 50mm f/1.4 hoods reversed or Canon 5DMIII with 50mm f/1.2 attached + 16-35mm f2.8 hoods reversed.

TurnStyle™ 20: Fits a standard size DSLR with one to four lenses plus a large tablet. The front organizer pocket holds memory cards and other small accessories. Examples: Nikon D800 with 70-200 f/2.8 attached + 50 f/1.4 (or flash) hoods reversed or Canon 5DMIII.
Series Features
High quality RC-Fuse YKK zippers plus metal clips and hardware
Lightweight Poly Ballistic fabrics for durability and water resistance
Breathable air-mesh back panel keeps the back cool during long days
Slim design and easy access
Fully-customizable interior dividers
Wide shoulder strap with quick-release buckle
Front organizer pocket for batteries, memory cards or other small accessories
Hook/loop on shoulder strap keeps loose webbing secure and out of the way
Seam-sealed rain cover included in bottom pocket
Main compartment opens wide providing quick access to your gear
No Rhetoric warranty on all manufacturing defects
Materials

Exterior
All fabric exterior treated with a durable water resistant coating while fabric underside is coated with polyurethane for superior water resistance
YKK® RC Fuse (abrasion resistant) zippers
420D velocity nylon, 250D shadow rip-stop nylon, 3D air mesh
Y-Buckle, double gate keeper, nylon webbing
3-ply bonded nylon thread
Interior
Removable high density closed cell foam dividers
210D silver-toned nylon, polyurethane backed velex liner
Phthalate-free PVC (meets REACH standard) clear mesh pockets
2x polyurethane coated 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover
Nylon binding tape
3-ply bonded nylon thread
TurnStyle Specifications
TurnStyle 5
•  Internal Dimensions: 6.3” W x 11” H x 3.5” D (16 x 28 x 9 cm)
•  External Dimensions: 7.1” W x 13.8” H x 3.9” D (18 x 35 x 10 cm)
•  Small tablet compartment: 6.3” x 8.7” x 0.4” (16 x 22 x 1 cm)
•  Maximum weight (with all accessories): 0.8lb (0.3kg)
TurnStyle 10
• Internal Dimensions: 7.1” W x 12.6” H x 4.8” D (18 x 32 x 12.2 cm)
• External Dimensions: 8.3” W x 15.4” H x 5.2” D (21 x 39 x 13.2 cm)
• Small tablet compartment: 6.3” x 8.7” x 0.4” (16 x 22 x 1 cm)
• Maximum weight (with all accessories): 1.0lbs (0.4kg)
TurnStyle 20
• Internal Dimensions: 8.3” W x 15” H x 4.8” D (21 x 38 x 12.2 cm)
• External Dimensions: 9.3” W x 17.3” H x 5.4” D (23.5 x 44 x 13.7 cm)
• Small tablet compartment: 8.1” x 10.2” x 0.6” (20.5 x 26 x 1.5 cm)
• Maximum weight (with all accessories): 1.2lb (0.5kg)

LED Light Cube

The LED Light Cube is billed as the world’s first high-end, portable and interlocking LED flash and video light. The main highlights of the LED Light Cube include continuous high speed flashing at full power even at bursts of 15fps, adjustable flash speed from 1/8000 of a second to 30 seconds, an ultra-high performance internal lithium ion polymer battery, interlocking capability for building light banks with extra units, and all-in-one flash and video lighting for immediate swapping from stills to motion picture. Manufactured by IC12, the LED Ligth Cube is funded through an IndieGoGo campaign, with those who donate $420 or more receiving a LED Light Cube plus an acknowledgement on the Cube website and inside the product manual.
Website: The LED Light Cube on IndieGoGo
Ic12 Press Release
A WORLD-FIRST LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY GOES ONLINE TO CROWDSOURCE A MOVEMENT OF ‘CUBISTS’

The LED Light Cube, created by IC12

Melbourne, Australia, 13th August 2013 – An innovative Australian company, IC12, looks set to lead the photographic and digital filmmaking industries into a whole new creative realm with the release of the world’s first high-end, portable and interlocking LED flash and light source – The LED Light Cube – to be crowdfunded on Indiegogo from Tuesday 13th August (Australian time) to the cry of ‘Become a Cubist!’.

Managing Director of IC12, Nathan Oxley, says The LED Light Cube was borne out of a desire to make the biggest difference in the photographic industries with the smallest change. “From our work with photographic awards and competitions, we heard time and time again about the frustrations of photographers – the cycle time required between flashes which meant often missing unrepeatable action, the lack of portability of lights, the insufficiencies of batteries… We thought ‘how can we free up photographers to just shoot and capture the moment?’ That’s The LED Light Cube.”

The main features of The LED Light Cube are completely unique to the worldwide market, making the product quite literally incomparable: Continuous high speed flashing at full power even at bursts of 15 frames per second; adjustable flash speed from one eight-thousands (1/8000) of a second to 30 seconds; ultra high performance, internal lithium ion polymer battery; interlocking capability for building light banks with extra units; and all-in-one flash and video lighting for immediate swapping from stills to motion picture.

Even before its initial production run, IC12 has decided to premiere The LED Light Cube on the Indigogo.com crowdfunding website so to open it up to those keen to be a part of the ‘movement’ right from the beginning and enjoy a fundamental role in bringing this illuminating device to a greater audience.

“People, especially first-responders, aren’t satisfied with just buying a product anymore,” explains Nathan Oxley. “It’s about having ownership over a particular technology and knowing you had the foresight to jump on the bandwagon from the beginning. That’s why we’re asking people to ‘Become a Cubist’ – not just purchase the product. We think our Cube is going to really excite photographers and filmmakers, so we want them to share in it.”

The LED Light Cube Indiegogo campaign is taking place live from Tuesday 13th August to Thursday 12th September and can be viewed at http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/led-light-cube. The campaign goal of US$60,000 will help see The LED Light Cube develop from working prototype into its first production run, with the first of these units scheduled for delivery by the end of November 2013.

RRP US$695 single unit, RRP US$2400 four-unit kit, also accessories available sold separately

http://www.ledlightcube.com

PocketShot Smartphone Mount

The PocketShot is a portable, universal smartphone mount. The PocketShot will mount any smartphone to any stabilizing device and can include an optional handle that opens into a table-top tripod.
WOXOM Press Release
Introducing the PocketShot: a portable, universal smartphone mount!
WOXOM has released the PocketShot, a universal smartphone mount, on Crowd Supply. Extremely portable and flexible, the PocketShot will mount any smartphone to any stabilizing device and can include an optional handle that opens into a table-top tripod.
"We got a lot of feedback on the SlingShot, our first successful Kickstarter campaign," said inventor Charles Waugh of Portland, Oregon. "I used that feedback to make a truly portable universal cradle for smartphones that happily holds devices as big as 'phablets' as well as smaller portable media players like iPods. The PocketShot will not disappoint."
The PocketShot improves upon all the SlingShot's features: the cradle easily folds to fit in a pocket or purse, in addition, the handle has significant upgrades as well:
Increased weight to provide more stability shooting hand-held video and photography..
Wider legs for the table-top tripod for increased stability.
A drastically improved lead-in pin on the handle that greatly improves mounting and prevents the cradle from flying off as it’s dismounted.
The cradle combines elegant design and amazing versatility.
This is the all-in-one solution for Smartphonographers at a tremendously affordable cost during the pre-release crowdfunding launch.

Tooga Flocam Camera Stabilizer

The Tooga Flocam is the first portable lego-style camera stabilizer with a bendable support arm. The Tooga FloCam includes a bendable counterweight arm and stackable weights. Using the weights, the operator gets balance in the "ballpark", then adjusts the bendable arm to make fine tune adjustments until perfect balance is achieved. Set-up time with the Tooga FloCam can take less than 1 minute. The Flocam supports iPhones, GoPros, Android, DSLRs, and any camera up to 4 lbs.
Tooga Press Release
Crowdfunding Product Launch: Tooga FloCam Modular Camera Stabilizer with Bendable Arm for DSLR, Mirrorless Micro 4/3, GoPro, iPhone, Android
The Tooga Flocam, the first portable lego-style camera stabilizer with a bendable support arm, launches today on indiegogo. Tooga's unique design allows the FloCam to be stored in a much smaller form factor such as a small bag or backpack, get stable shots, while also getting better, more diversified shots with less gear.
Huntington Beach, CA (PRWEB) August 20, 2013
Until now, camera stabilizers have used rigid counterweight arms, making them bulky, and difficult to balance.
Instead, the Tooga FloCam includes a bendable counterweight arm and stackable weights. Using the weights, the operator gets balance in the "ballpark", then adjusts the bendable arm to make fine tune adjustments until perfect balance is achieved. Set-up time with the Tooga FloCam can take less than 1 minute.
"The intuitive method of manipulating the FloCam's support arm during set-up is much simpler and faster than setting up a rigid arm stabilizer." - Chris Anderson, Product Designer
To ensure ongoing stability while filming, the gimbal handle uses a very low friction u-joint and ball bearing combination. The three degrees of rotational freedom allows the camera to "Flow" through the air capturing smooth footage.
The Flocam supports iPhones, GoPros, Android, DSLRs, and any camera up to 4 lbs. The camera or smartphone can be mounted directly to the Tooga Shell using a 1/4 20 threaded knob.
Tooga Lego-Style Design:
The Tooga Flocam was carefully designed to perform as one solid piece of equipment yet contain modular parts. The “lego style” design allows the FloCam to be quickly disassembled and stored in a much smaller form for portability.
"We designed the Tooga for the creative video maker looking to get more from their gear" - Sherry Wu, Product Designer
The Bendable Arm can be removed using a simple snap connection and flipped upside down to create a low angle camera stabilizer
The Tooga Shell can be used on its own as a tripod accessory with 7 1/4-20 threaded holes to attach extra camera gear accessories such as lighting, mics, gopros, etc.
Attach suction cups to the Tooga shell to create a strong suction cup mount that withstands speeds of 100+ miles per hour.
The small team based in Huntington Beach, CA hopes to raise at least $30k on indiegogo to produce the Flocam and to continue working on new modular concepts around the Tooga.

Epson Perfection V550 Photo

The Epson Perfection V550 Photo is a new scanner that can automatically remove dust and scratches from damaged film. The V550 can also upload scanned images directly to selected social media and photo sharing sites such as Facebook or Picasa. With a 6,400dpi resolution, an optical density of 3.4 Dmax and built-in transparency unit, the V550 photo scanner can easily scan a wide range of media – from standard photographs, newspapers and A2-sized posters to filmstrips, mounted slides and medium format film. The Epson Perfection V550 Photo will be available from September 2013, priced at £179.99.
Epson UK Press Release
Bring old photos and memories back to life
Automatically repair damaged film and scan images directly to cloud storage services

19 August 2013 – Epson announces its new photo scanner that allows users to scan and upload photos directly to social media, photo sharing websites and other cloud storage services. Featuring Digital ICE® Technology, that removes dust and scratches from damaged film, the Perfection V550 Photo is the ideal photo scanner for photo enthusiasts who want to enhance their photo collection.

Epson Easy Photo Scan allows users to share photos much more easily with friends and family by uploading scanned images directly to selected social media and photo sharing sites such as Facebook or Picasa. Meanwhile, Digital ICE Technology automatically removes dust, imperfections, scratches and fingerprints from scanned film, without the need for time-consuming manual retouching.

With a 6,400dpi resolution, an optical density of 3.4 Dmax and built-in transparency unit, this photo scanner can easily scan a wide range of media – from standard photographs, newspapers and A2-sized posters to filmstrips, mounted slides and medium format film – with fast, high quality results.

Simon Hanly, product manager, Epson UK, says: “Packed full of technology and software to repair and restore original photographs, this high-quality photo scanner is ideal for anyone with a back catalogue of old memories they want to bring back to life. Thanks to Epson ReadyScan LED technology, this scanner is ready to work seconds after switching on so there’s no waiting for it to warm up.”

The Perfection V550 Photo is available from September 2013, priced at £179.99.

Features
Capture every detail with   Epson Matrix CCD technology and 6,400dpi optical resolution
Scan almost instantly   with fast, energy efficient Epson ReadyScan LED Technology
Scan positive and   negative 35mm film strips and slides, as well as medium format film with   built-in transparency unit
Digital ICE® Technology automatically repairs damaged   film by removing dust, imperfections, scratches and fingerprints
Scan directly to cloud   storage and photo sharing websites to archive and share photos online with Epson   Easy Photo Scan software
Restore colour, adjust   backlight, and remove the appearance of dust on photos with Epson Easy Photo   Fix software
ArcSoft® Scan 'n' Stitch Deluxe™ software for   scanning oversized originals up to A2
4 one-touch buttons –   Start, Copy, Scan to email, scan to PDF
Reduce energy bills and   impact on the environment due to low power consumption
ENERGY STAR compliant
Easily edit scanned text   with Optical Character Recognition software

Image Gallery

Click on a thumbnail to see the full version.

Samsung Galaxy NX Now Available in UK

The Samsung Galaxy NX is now available to buy in the UK. The Galaxy NX is the world’s first 4G interchangeable lens Connected Compact System Camera (CSC) and is on sale at Jessops for £1299, with selected online and high street retailers to follow.
Samsung Electronics UK Press Release
SAMSUNG GALAXY NX NOW AVAILABLE TO BUY IN THE UK
London, UK – August 20, 2013 – Samsung Electronics UK today announced that customers in the UK are now able to purchase the Galaxy NX, the world’s first 4G interchangeable lens Connected Compact System Camera (CSC), from Jessops, with selected online and high street retailers to follow.
Featuring 3G/4G LTE technology, the Galaxy NX allows photographers to share professional quality images wherever they are and at any time. They can enjoy a range of intuitive features including Photo Suggest, offering location-based recommendations of popular photography spots, and Story Album, allowing them to view a timeline of their best shots and create digital photo books.
Kitted out with an array of interchangeable lenses, the 20.3MP APS-C Sensor produces bright and detailed images, even in lowest lit conditions, while the DRIMe IV Image Signal Processer delivers the speed and accuracy that today's photographers demand. Photography enthusiasts can take crisp, vibrant shots with the Galaxy NX’s Advanced Hybrid Auto Focus (AF) System, whilst the 1/6000 sec shutter speed and 8.6fps shooting means they can capture every second of the action.
Running on an Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS, the Galaxy NX can be personalised with a huge range of Android apps to help capture amazing photographs and video, edit images or add special effects to them. More than 30 Smart Mode options mean the optimum settings can be selected for the environment photographers are shooting in, whilst Multi Exposure merges two different shots together to produce one distinctive image and Animated Photo connects continuous shots of up to five seconds, creating a moving GIF file.
Simon Stanford, Vice President of IT & Mobile Division, Samsung UK & Ireland said: “We’re excited to introduce the Samsung Galaxy NX to the UK market, offering our customers the chance to experience a premium device that boasts best-in-class image quality with the ease-of-use and speed of 4G capabilities with Android. Perfect for taking incredible images and sharing them quickly, we hope the Galaxy NX will help our customers stay connected at all times, wherever they are."

Wacom Cintiq Companion and Cintiq Companion Hybrid

The Wacom Cintiq Companion and Cintiq Companion Hybrid are two new portable creative tablets. The Cintiq Companion is a fully-fledged Windows 8 tablet, powered by a 3rd generation Intel Core processor and Intel HD Graphics 4000 and running full versions of creative software. The Cintiq Companion Hybrid is a more traditional Cintiq when plugged into a Mac or PC, but when used as a mobile device, works as a stand-alone Android tablet.
The Cintiq Companion is priced at £1649,99 (256 GB version) and £1999.99 (512 GB version). The Cintiq Companion Hybrid costs £1199.99 (16 GB) and £1299.99 (32 GB). Both products will be available from mid-October onwards.
Wacom UK Press Release

Wacom’s Cintiq goes mobile
New Cintiq Companion and Cintiq Companion Hybrid for Windows 8 and Android respectively, deliver professional pen-on-screen performance on creative tablets for users longing to work wherever and whenever they want.

20th August 2013 - Staying on top of evolving trends in the creative community and responding to frequent requests from professional customers, Wacom extends the creative experience from the desktop to a mobile environment with the new Cintiq Companion line of creative tablets.

The Cintiq Companion line, available in two models, enables creative professionals to work wherever they want. The Cintiq Companion runs Windows 8 and full versions of creative software and offers everything a customer would expect from Wacom’s Cintiq products. The Cintiq Companion Hybrid, on the other hand, is a traditional Cintiq when plugged into a Mac or PC, but when used as a mobile device, works as a stand-alone Android™ tablet with enough power to do light sketching and start creative processes with suitable apps.

The new tablets were developed to bring unprecedented freedom to the creative workflow. They also ensure a distinct Cintiq experience even in mobile use, leveraging key elements of the Cintiq 13HD and Cintiq 22HD touch, for example, full HD display with touch control and the Wacom Pro Pen with 2048 levels of pressure and tilt sensitivity.

Make the world your studio - Create anytime, anywhere with Cintiq Companion
Nowadays, creative professionals require high performance hardware and software that enable them to create in a variety of environments – e.g. studios, customer offices, collaborative meetings, coffee shops, planes and trains. The Cintiq Companion supports creative freedom by offering everything necessary for productive art and design work whether in the studio or on the go. Providing an all-purpose, mobile workstation, it is a fully-fledged Windows 8 tablet, powered by a 3rd generation Intel® Core™ processor and Intel® HD Graphics 4000 that pack a punch whether designing a character, or retouching a photo. For excellent creative results, Wacom offers two models. One with 8 GB memory and 256 GB SSD with Windows 8 and the other with 8 GB memory, 512 GB SSD with Windows 8 Pro.

"We are pleased that the Cintiq Companion has been designed with the needs of creative professionals in mind. With Wacom, we worked together to select the best combination of features to make it an excellent mobile platform for Adobe® Photoshop®," said Maria Yap, senior director of product management at Adobe. "The Cintiq Companion is optimised for the latest version of Photoshop Creative Cloud ™ and gives creative professionals a way to get out of the studio and create wherever they feel most inspired."

“We are excited to have worked closely with Wacom over the last year to bring the Cintiq Companion to reality” said Chris Silva, Intel director of marketing for premium notebooks. “Intel’s powerful yet compact processors together with Wacom’s expertise in creative pen displays brought to life the Cintiq Companion, a product very different from any other in that it’s designed specifically for people in visual arts who need a professional solution to draw, sketch and paint when mobile.”
Cintiq Companion Hybrid - the digital sketchpad on the go
For the likes of illustrators and designers who want to draw, sketch and paint when mobile, but who also want to use their professional software when connected to a Mac or PC, the Cintiq Companion Hybrid offers a ‘two-in-one’ solution. The Cintiq Companion Hybrid functions as a traditional Cintiq when connected to a Mac or PC. When unplugged, it is perfect for light, spontaneous work using AndroidTM apps. The tablet comes with a powerful Nvidia® Tegra® 4 processor, Android Jellybean and specially designed software such as the new Wacom Creative Canvas for painting and sketching and Wacom Manga Canvas for the first phases of Manga creation. For further refinement when back in the studio, rough images can be easily transferred to a computer or shared directly to popular cloud services with the easy and pre-loaded ASTRO File Manager™. Two versions of the Cintiq Companion Hybrid are available, a 16 GB version and a 32 GB version.

All of the time-savers that professionals expect from a Wacom Cintiq are integrated in both the Cintiq Companion and Cintiq Companion Hybrid, including the customisable new on-screen controls, ExpressKeys, Rocker Ring and Radial Menu. To enable a truly mobile working style, the Cintiq Companion family packs some impressive mobile communications features such as WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth® (version 4.0 for Cintiq Companion and version 3.0 for Cintiq Companion Hybrid), front/rear HD cameras (2 M pixels/8 M pixels), stereo headset jack and microphone for hosting calls or streaming movies.

As creative professionals require comfort and ergonomics to offset long working hours, an adjustable and detachable stand is also included with both products, offering four working angles – from flat to upright.

“The new Cintiq Companion line enables mobile creatives to carry out their jobs without compromising on the high performance required for delivering professional-grade design and artistic output“, said Rüdiger Spohrer, Vice President Marketing at Wacom Europe GmbH. “This is a truly ground-breaking product line that redefines the way creative professionals work, empowering artists and designers to immerse themselves in their work without being confined to a traditional studio or office.“
Availability and Pricing
The Cintiq Companion is priced at £1649,99 (256 GB version) and £1999.99 (512 GB version). The Cintiq Companion Hybrid costs £1199.99 (16 GB) and £1299.99 (32 GB). All prices include VAT.
Products will be available in Wacom eStores only from mid of October onwards. Sing up for a prenotification for Cintiq Companion at http://uk.shop.wacom.eu/detail/index/sArticle/567 and at http://uk.shop.wacom.eu/detail/index/sArticle/566 for Cintiq Companion Hybrid.
For more details on Cintiq Companion please visit the Wacom website at http://Cintiqcompanion.wacom.com/CintiqCompanion and video on Wacom Europe’s YouTube’s Channel at http://youtu.be/NJMEMGV6RGM For C.intiq Companion Hybrid please check http://Cintiqcompanion.wacom.com/CintiqCompanionHybrid or have a look at http://youtu.be/Uw7kDOQ4k2o

Joby GPod Mini Magnetic & MPod Mini Stand

Joby has launched two adaptable mini tripods designed for point-and-shoot cameras, phones and action video cameras. Inspired by the original GorillaPod, the Joby the GPod Mini Magnetic (pictured) is a mini-tripod with magnetic feet that secure to all types of metal objects. Designed for point-and-shoot and action video cameras, the mini-tripod has an adjustable neck which allows users to change the position of their camera angle for more creative possibilities. The Joby MPod Mini Stand features a universal design that fits most smartphones, with or without their protective cases. The mini tripod is built with flexible leg joints that adapt to all types of surfaces. Its expandable head mount clamps a smartphone in place, making it easy to set up a steady shot. Available for pre-order, each mini-tripod weighs less than two ounces.
Joby Press Release
JOBY ACCESSORIES GO “MINI” WITH TWO PORTABLE, PLAYFUL AND PRACTICAL PHOTO AND MOBILE TRIPODS
NEW Tripods Designed for Point-and-Shoots, Action Video Cameras & Smartphones
August 20, 2013, SAN FRANCISCO – Today JOBY launches two adaptable mini tripods to empower the consumer to do more with his or her compact digital gear: the JOBY GPod Mini Magnetic™ and JOBY MPod Mini Stand™.

“Our mini accessories were designed for the convenience and creativity of today’s spontaneous point-and-shoot and action video camera users, as well as smartphone users who use their devices to shoot images and enjoy media,” said Michael Jue, director of product design and management. “The new tripod stands support consumers as they use their technical tools to get creative with their photos and videos,” he added.
Introducing the JOBY GPod Mini Magnetic
Inspired by the original GorillaPod™ tripod, the JOBY GPod Mini Magnetic is a fun and friendly mini-tripod with magnetic feet – the perfect, portable stand that secures to all types of metal objects. Designed for point-and-shoot and action video cameras (such as GoPro® cameras), the mini-tripod provides steady and crisp images from all angles. An adjustable neck allows users to change the position of their camera angle for more creative possibilities and the flexible, wrappable leg joints adapt to uneven surfaces.
Introducing the JOBY MPod Mini Stand
Also mini in size but mighty in practicality, the JOBY MPod Mini Stand features a universal design that fits most smartphones, with or without their protective cases (accommodating sizes up to a Samsung Galaxy Note®). The mini tripod is built with flexible leg joints that adapt to all types of surfaces. Its expandable head mount clamps a smart phone in place, making it easy to set up a steady shot and enjoy media.
Available for pre-orders on August20 on JOBY.com, each mini-tripod weighs less than two ounces, making it truly portable and an ideal lightweight accessory for totes, backpacks, pockets or travel cases.
ABOUT JOBY
Based in San Francisco, California, the JOBY brand was founded in 2005 with the introduction of the industry-defining and best-selling GorillaPod flexible tripod. JOBY creates creative, award-winning photo, mobile and lighting products that inspire the active lifestyle. We believe great design starts with a user-centric approach, is functional yet playful, and enhances people’s lives. For more information, please visit JOBY.com

Tamron Launches Garden Macro Photography Contest

Tamron USA will celebrate World Photography Day with a "Garden Macro" photography contest. Entrants will creatively photograph garden-themed macro images and set-up an exhibit at Tamron's 3D virtual online sharing site, MyPhotoExhibits.com, between August 19 and September 19, 2013. Tamron will pick the best overall exhibit based on image quality and creativity. The winner will receive a Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD Macro 1:1 VC USD lens. The Tamron "Garden Macro" photography contest is open to users of any photographic equipment who reside in the USA and are at least 18 years old. The exhibit must be set up at  by September 19, 2013 and must contain at least 8 images as they relate to topic of Garden Macro photography and use the new "Garden Patio" furniture/ceiling option. All exhibits must be named "Tamron Garden Macro Contest."
Tamron Press Release
TAMRON USA CELEBRATES WORLD PHOTOGRAPHY DAY WITH GARDEN MACRO PHOTO CONTEST

Participants creatively photograph garden-themed macro images and set up an exhibit at Tamron's MyPhotoExhibits.com for a chance to win the new award-winning Tamron SP 90mm Di VC USD Macro Lens
August 20, 2013, Commack, N.Y. - Tamron USA will celebrate World Photography Day with photo enthusiasts across the country with Tamron's "Garden Macro" photography contest. World Photography Day dates back to the invention of the daguerreotype process and the later proclamation of the French government, stating that the invention was a gift "Free to the World" on August 19, 1839.
Contest entrants will creatively photograph garden-themed macro images and set-up an exhibit at Tamron's unique 3D virtual online sharing experience, MyPhotoExhibits.com, between August 19 and September 19, 2013. Tamron will pick the best overall exhibit based on image quality and creativity. The winner will receive the award-winning Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD Macro 1:1 VC USD (value $749).
Rules
The Tamron "Garden Macro" photography contest is open to users of any photographic equipment who reside in the USA and are at least 18 years old. The exhibit must be set up at  by September 19, 2013 and must contain at least 8 images as they relate to topic of Garden Macro photography and use the new "Garden Patio" furniture/ceiling option. All exhibits must be named "Tamron Garden Macro Contest" or the entry will not qualify. For complete rules, please visit: http://tamron-usa.com/lenses/garden_macro_contest.asp
About the Prize  

State-of-the-art optical and VC image stabilizing technologies  combine to create anew masterwork lens in the Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (model F004), refined for higher detail and sharper photos with Tamron's new eBand Coating, XLD optical design and VC image stabilization and is compatible with full-size DSLRs. With its rounded diaphragm, this macro lens maintains sharp focus on the subject together with soft natural blurring of foregrounds and backgrounds to deliver a spectacular blur effect.

The new eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating technique developed by Tamron deploys a nano-structured layer coupled with the sophisticated multiple layer coatings underneath to yield significant anti-reflection properties, efficiently reducing undesired flare and ghosting to an absolute minimum to deliver sharp, crisp images. This lens was recently voted best lens of the year by EISA 2013-2014 and noted as, "One of the best macro lenses on the market, comfortably outperforming its legendary predecessor with the same focal length. Not only does it impress with its optical quality but also with its functionality."
About MyPhotoExhibits
Unlike traditional static online galleries, Tamron's SoHo-styled MyPhotoExhibits (MPE) interface, available at http://myphotoexhibits.com exhibits with a vibrant interactive experience. Photographers simply set up a user avatar and bio, upload their favorite high-resolution images and create their personalized on-line exhibit space. After organizing the exhibit and captioning the photographs, users can put finishing design touches on their exhibit. By choosing wall and floor textures and colors, frames, furniture, and lighting, photographers are invited to extend their creativity and show their work in complimentary settings. It's easy to go back into the MPE interface at any time to add more photos, tweak presentation specs, or create an unlimited number of new exhibits that feature travel pictorials, special events, projects, and more.

Spreading the word about these custom exhibits is another way in which MyPhotoExhibits stands out from other online galleries. Once an exhibit is ready to "open" it's easy to share it with friends. Users simply send invitations from the website or the iPhone & iPad app to Facebook or other social media platforms or by email. Visitors can sign the photographer's guestbook, choose favorite exhibits and follow exhibiting photographers.
Companion Android™, iPhone™ & iPad™ App for On-The-Go Viewing and Sharing
An app for Android, iPhone & iPad for photography enthusiasts on-the-go will further enhance MyPhotoExhibits convenience and user-friendliness. The free apps, available in the iTunes app store and at Google Play, and all of which can be accessed from tamron-usa.com/lenses/apps_mpe.asp, offer easy mobile access to MyPhotoExhibits. Through their iPhone, Android phone or iPad, users can browse through all available MPE exhibits, view their own exhibits, check out other photographers and share exhibits by sending out invites to friends.
About Tamron

Tamron is a leading manufacturer of professional and consumer photographic lenses. Among its many optical and mechanical innovations since the founding of the company in 1950, Tamron's development of mass-produced hybrid Aspherical elements paved the way for today's compact high power All-In-One™ lenses when, in 1992, this technology was incorporated into the ground-breaking 28-200mm. Tamron continues to lead in this category of lenses with the 18-270mm Di II VC PZD - the world's smallest and lightest 15X All-In-One™ zoom lens featuring Tamron's proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) system for blur-free hand-held shooting of photos in low light and at telephoto settings and PZD (Piezo Drive) autofocus system for fast and quiet autofocus operation. Tamron's recent SP (Super performance) lens introductions have received accolades and high press by leading photographic magazines and websites for their outstanding best-in-class performance. Tamron has garnered international acclaim for its extensive line-up of professional and consumer lenses.

Profoto RFi Speedring for Speedlights

Today, Profoto released the latest addition to its assortment of speedring adapters: a new and improved RFi Speedlight Speedring, which allows you to use an RFi softbox with speedlights. The product enables photographers to mount not one but two flashes on the bracket, and each speedlight can slide and be tilted inside the softbox, allowing you to create a remarkably even light with no hotspot. The Profoto RFi Speedlight Speedrings come with an attachment for Profoto Air Remotes or radio sync units from other manufacturers.
Profoto Press Release
PROFOTO INTRODUCES LIGHT SHAPING FOR SPEEDLIGHTS

Speedlights are great for many reasons, but being able to create a soft and shapable light is not one of them. Profoto offers a simple solution to this problem: a speedring that makes the Profoto RFi softboxes compatible with speedlights of any brand.

On November 1, 2012, Profoto released the RFi softboxes – a new line of softboxes comprising 12 sizes and four models. One of the most attention grabbing features of the RFi softbox line is the speedring adaptors that make Profoto’s softboxes compatible with well over 20 different flash brands.

Today, Profoto releases the latest addition to its assortment of speedring adaptors: a new and improved RFi Speedlight Speedring. The name clearly reveals what the tool does; it allows you to use an RFi softbox with speedlights, and thereby soften and shape the light.

But it does not end there. The RFi Speedlight Speedring allows you to mount not one but two speedlights on the bracket. This means that you now have enough power and punch to shoot in bright sunlight or light up an even larger softbox, such as the Softbox RFi 3x4’.

Each speedlight can slide and be tilted inside the softbox, allowing you to create a remarkably even light with no hotspot. The entire softbox can also be tilted, rotated 360° and adjusted high wise. In short, the RFi Speedlight Speedring allows you to shape the light however you see fit.

Also note that the RFi Speedlight Speedrings have color codes that match the RFi softbox rods.

This makes the softboxes incredibly easy to mount, even for someone who has never used one before.

Last but not least, the RFi Speedlight Speedrings come with an attachment for Profoto Air Remotes or radio sync units from other manufacturers.

The new RFi Speedlight Speedring is offi cially released on August 22.

New Collapsible Reflectors from Profoto

Profoto has launched a new range of collapsible reflectors for photographers. Designed with high-quality fabrics, each Profoto reflector has a sturdy yet collapsible squircle-shaped metal frame equipped with two ergonomically shaped handles. Four types of two-sided reflectors are available: Silver/White, Sunsilver/White, Gold/White & Matte Black/White. There is also a translucent screen available to be used as a diffuser. Each of these comes in two sizes: Medium (80 cm /32’’) and Large (120 cm /47”), priced at £59 and £89 respectively.
Profoto Press Release
PROFOTO INTRODUCES A NEW LINE OF COLLAPSIBLE REFLECTORS

We do not need tell you why collapsible refl ectors are great. Every photographer knows that (affordable, lightweight, easy to use, etc.). But what you most probably did not know is that Profoto now makes them.

Profoto’s collapsible reflectors stand out from the crowd. First of all, the sturdy yet collapsible squircle-shaped metal frame is equipped with two ergonomically shaped handles, which makes the reflectors much easier to fold and hold in various positions.

Secondly, Profoto Reflectors are designed with high-quality fabrics and the frame itself is far tougher and durable than the average reflector.

Last but not least, Profoto Reflectors are available in no less than ten different versions. Four types of two-sided Reflectors are available: Silver/White, Sunsilver/White, Gold/White & Matte Black/White. There is also a translucent screen available to be used as a diffuser. Each of these is available in two sizes: Medium (80 cm /32’’) and Large (120 cm /47”).

In short, it is now easier than ever before to obtain your fi rst piece of Profoto gear, and those who are already familiar with the brand can expand their set of Profoto tools with a powerful and cordless continuous light source – also known as the sun.

The new Profoto Reflectors are officially released on August 22.

Canon Pixma MG2450, MG2550 & MG3550

Canon today  unveiled three new All-in-One inkjet printers. The Pixma MG2450 (£49.99/€59.99) and MG2550 (£49.99/€59.99) offer print, scan and copy functionality for home and office use. The Canon Pixma MG3550 (£69.99/€79.99, pictured) does all of the above and additionally features Wi-Fi connectivity, supports smartphone and tablet printing and is capable of producing "photo lab quality" prints. The new Pixma Printing Solutions app, which is compatible with the MG3550, allows users to control their PIXMA printer without the need of a PC.
Canon Press Release
Canon updates All-in-One inkjet range with three compact devices and new mobile app
United Kingdom, Republic Of Ireland, 22 August 2013 – Canon today announces the launch of three new All-in-One inkjet printers that are compact in design and ideal for personal and home office use.
The new PIXMA MG2450 and MG2550 offer print, scan and copy functionality and come in stylish new finishes. The PIXMA MG3550 is available in three stylish colours and features Wi-Fi connectivity, supports smartphone and tablet printing and is capable of producing photo lab quality prints.
Featuring a new design and a compact footprint, the PIXMA MG2450 and MG2550 replace the PIXMA MP230 and MG2250 respectively. The MG2450 comes in a matt light grey finish while the MG2550 sports a stylish matt white finish, to suit a range of home environments. The MG3550 replaces the PIXMA MG3250 and comes in a black, red or white finish.

Wi-Fi is a key feature of the PIXMA MG3550 allowing wireless printing and scanning from multiple devices, such as PCs, smartphones and tablets. The model also supports Google Cloud Print, which enables users to print PDF and JPG attachments from their Gmail, and print from Google Docs, from virtually anywhere[ii].

New PIXMA Printing Solutions app
The new PIXMA Printing Solutions app, which is compatible with the MG3550, makes printing from a connected device easy, and allows users to control their PIXMA printer without the need of a PC. A range of features are included, such as advanced ‘scan saving’ settings, for scanning direct to an iCloud service, to email or to save locally. In addition, the app provides access to the printer manual and information on compatible ink model numbers. The PIXMA Printing Solutions app is available as a free download from iTunes (iOS) and Google Play (Android).

Easy-to-use, multi-tasking printers for the home
The PIXMA MG2450, MG2550 and MG3550 all inherit Canon’s FINE ink technology that delivers a minimum 2pl droplet size with a maximum 4800dpi to ensure high-quality print resolution. The new models also use Canon’s hybrid ink system, which ensures the printers are able to produce both vivid, high-quality photo prints using dye-based inks, and crisp sharp text documents using pigment black ink.

In addition, the PIXMA MG2450 and MG2550 produce black and white documents at approximately ISO ESAT 8.0 ipm and colour documents at approximately ISO ESAT 4.0 ipm. The MG3550 boasts fast print speeds of ISO ESAT 9.9 ipm for black and white documents and ISO ESAT 5.7ipm for colour.

For the time and energy conscious, the MG3550 also provides the option to reduce paper use through the Auto 2-sided printing feature, whilst Auto Power On helps to save energy.

Sophisticated software
All the new PIXMA printers include Canon’s flagship software My Image Garden, a one-stop platform that combines all Canon PIXMA software in a single, easy-to-use interface, and ensures effortless navigation between printing and scanning functions. It includes Canon’s Full HD Movie Print for creating photo prints from movies taken on Canon compact cameras, video cameras or DSLRs.

The versatility of Canon’s PIXMA printers makes them great, easy-to use all-rounders for all home printing needs, from updating the family album with new photo prints to printing important homework projects. All new PIXMA printers also come with the option of XL ink cartridges, giving users the opportunity to print more for less.

Pricing and availability
The PIXMA MG2450, MG2550 and MG3550 will be available across the UK & Ireland from September 2013 with an SRP of:
PIXMA MG2450 - £49.99/€59.99
PIXMA MG2550 - £49.99/€59.99
PIXMA MG3550 - £69.99/€79.99

Please note: The Red and White versions of the PIXMA MG3550 will become available from January 2014.

PIXMA MG2450 – key features:
·         Compact All-In-One: Print, copy and scan
·         Fast high-quality printing
·         Print more with optional XL inks
·         My Image Garden software
·         CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM
·         Easy and efficient website printing
·         Auto Power On & Off settings
PIXMA MG2550 – key features:
·         Compact All-In-One: Print, copy and scan
·         Stylish design with all white finish
·         Fast high-quality printing
·         Print more with optional XL inks
·         My Image Garden software
·         CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM
·         Easy and efficient web printing
·         Auto Power On & Off settings
PIXMA MG3550 – key features:
·         Home Wi-Fi All-In-One
·         Fast, quality printing
·         Print and scan from mobile devices
·         Apple AirPrint support
·         Google Cloud Print support
·         Print more with optional XL inks
·         Save paper with Auto 2-Sided print
·         My Image Garden software
·         CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM

Canon Pixma MG5550, MG6450 & MG7150

Canon today launched 3 new Web-connected All-in-One photo printers. The Pixma MG5550 (£109.99/€119.99) features a 6.2cm TFT monitor, the Pixma MG6450 (£139.99/€149.99) has a 7.5cm screen, while the Pixma MG7150 (£179.99/€189.99, pictured) boasts an 8.8cm touchscreen display with an Intelligent Touch System, which guides the user through the system. In addition, the Pixma MG6450 and MG7150 allow easy photo printing direct from a memory card. All three new models are Wi-Fi enabled, which allows them to connect to services via Pixma Cloud Link. This ensures seamless printing of photos and documents from popular services such as Picasa, Flickr, DropBox, Evernote and social networking sites including Facebook and Twitter. The new Pixma Printing Solutions app is compatible with all three devices and allows users to control their printer from virtually anywhere in the world via a tablet or smartphone.
Canon Press Release
Canon launches three All-in-One photo printers with extensive cloud printing services

United Kingdom, Republic Of Ireland, 22 August 2013 – Canon today announces the launch of three new web-connected All-in-One inkjet printers to lead the refreshed PIXMA home range. PIXMA MG5550, PIXMA MG6450 and PIXMA MG7150 bring a new level of connectivity to home printing, providing direct access to cloud services and social networking sites, and making printing photos and documents easier than ever.
Web-connected printers with cloud and remote access
All three new models are Wi-Fi enabled, which allows them to connect to services via PIXMA Cloud Link. In addition, the new PIXMA Printing Solutions app opens up a world of new printing options.
The new and improved PIXMA Cloud Link service provides users with easy access to social networking, photo sharing and cloud storage sites directly from the printer’s TFT display, with no need for a PC or any other device. This ensures seamless printing of photos and documents from popular services such as Picasa™, Flickr™, DropBox™, Evernote™ and social networking sites including Facebook™ and Twitter™. PIXMA Cloud Link also allows direct access to creative projects from Canon’s CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM.
The new PIXMA Printing Solutions app is compatible with all three devices and allows users to control their PIXMA printer from virtually anywhere in the world via a tablet or smartphone¹. It mirrors the services available on the printer, so content can be printed from online albums, social networking sites and cloud storage sites, as if they were using the device’s own TFT display. Remote access to PIXMA Cloud Link also allows the user to check real-time ink levels and access the printer’s online manual.
Documents can be sent to print from iOS™ devices using Apple’s AirPrint™ feature and the new models also support Google Cloud Print™. With Canon’s new Access Point Mode, users can even print or scan directly to the printer from a connected device without having to join a Wi-Fi network.
Premium features
Each model is equipped with a TFT colour LCD display. The PIXMA MG5550 features a 6.2cm display, PIXMA MG6450 a 7.5cm and PIXMA MG7150 an 8.8cm touchscreen display with an Intelligent Touch System, which guides the user through the system for even easier use without a PC.
PIXMA MG6450 and MG7150 allow easy photo printing direct from a memory card. They also feature Wi-Fi PictBridge capability, which enables easy photo printing direct from Wi-Fi PictBridge-enabled cameras without the need for any cables. All three models also have efficient energy-saving features, such as auto two-sided printing and copying, and an Auto Power On feature, which automatically turns on the printer when a print job is sent.
Advanced printing capabilities for the home
The stylish design of the new models is matched by their high-end single-ink printing capability. Using cartridges designed with Canon’s FINE technology, they offer photo lab quality prints, and crisp, sharp document text.
Both PIXMA MG5550 and MG6450 use five individual ink tanks for fast, high-quality printing.  PIXMA MG5550 has print times of approximately ISO ESAT 12.2 ipm for black and white documents and ISO ESAT 8.7 ipm for colour documents. PIXMA MG6450 prints at approximately ISO ESAT 15.0 ipm for black and white documents and ISO ESAT 9.7 ipm for colour documents.
PIXMA MG7150 has print speeds of ISO ESAT 15.0 ipm for black and white documents and ISO ESAT 10 ipm for colour documents. It also features a grey ink tank, delivering beautiful black and white photo printing, and can print directly onto inkjet-printable discs without the need for adhesive CD labels.
PIXMA MG5550, MG6450 and MG7150 also have optional XL cartridges that allow users to print more for less cost.
Sophisticated software
All the new PIXMA printers include Canon’s flagship software My Image Garden, a one-stop platform which combines all Canon PIXMA software in a single, easy-to-use interface, and ensures effortless navigation between printing and scanning functions. It also includes Canon’s Full HD Movie Print for creating photo prints from movies taken on Canon compact cameras, video cameras or DSLRs. 
Pricing and availability
The PIXMA MG5550, MG6450 and MG7150 are available in the UK & Ireland from October 2013 with an SRP of:
PIXMA MG5550 - £109.99/€119.99
PIXMA MG6450 - £139.99/€149.99
PIXMA MG7150 - £179.99/€189.99
PIXMA MG5550– key features:
High-quality Wi-Fi All-in-One for home
Cloud printing direct from the screen
Control printer from a smartphone or tablet
Superior prints with 5 Single Inks
XL ink options
6.2cm colour display
AirPrint and Google Cloud Print support
My Image Garden
PIXMA MG6450 – key features:
High-performance, stylish Wi-Fi All-in-One
Cloud printing direct from the screen
Control printer from smartphone or tablet
Superior prints with 5 Single Inks
XL ink options
7.5cm colour display
Fast printing
AirPrint & Google Cloud Print support
My Image Garden
PIXMA MG7150 – key features:
Premium 6-ink Photo Wi-Fi All-in-One; stylish design
Enhanced PIXMA Cloud Link
Mobile printing; Apple AirPrint support
Intuitive 8.8cm touch screen
XL ink options
Fast superior printing
Auto 2-sided and Direct Disc printing
My Image Garden
¹ Apple iOS and Android devices. Subject to internet connection.

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM

Canon today unveiled the new EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM telephoto zoom lens. Incorporating a new design, the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM sports an optical formula comprising 15 elements arranged in 12 groups (including an ultra-low-dispersion lens element), with an improved close-focus point of 85m throughout its zoom range. The manufacturer's STM technology ensures the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM provides high-performance auto focus when capturing stills, and smooth, near-silent AF in movies with compatible cameras. The integrated optical image stabiliser promises to give users a 3.5-stop advantage over non-IS models. The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM will be available from late September 2013 with an SRP of £349.99 / €419.99 / $349.99.
Canon Press Release
Get closer to the action – Canon unveils the new EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM

United Kingdom, Republic Of Ireland, 22 August 2013 – Canon today unveils the latest addition to its leading EF lens range – the new EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM. Designed to be compact, lightweight and versatile, the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM provides an incredibly flexible 55–250mm focal range that’s the perfect companion for photographers that want to get closer to their favourite subjects. The new model is the first EF-S telephoto zoom lens to feature Canon’s advanced STM technology, alongside a 3.5-stop optical Image Stabilizer, providing outstanding stills and movie quality throughout the entire zoom range.
Superior image quality, near and far
The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is the ideal lens for photographers looking to extend the reach of their current kit. The additional zoom range it offers allows users to shoot a range of scenes and subject types, from beautiful portraits at 55mm, to distant wildlife at 250mm, with a single compact lens.

Canon’s advanced STM technology ensures the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM provides high-performance autofocus (AF) when capturing stills, and smooth, near-silent AF in movies with compatible cameras. Offering fluid continuous focus tracking when shooting movies of moving subjects, STM also provides clean and natural focus transitions when focus shifts from one subject to another. Audio on movie footage can also be accurately captured, without the intrusion or distraction of focusing noise from the lens, thanks to the near-silent STM mechanism.

World class optical technologies and professional design
The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM incorporates a new design, featuring Canon’s industry-leading optical Image Stabilizer technology. The 3.5-stop advantage over non-IS models helps protect against the effects of camera shake – which are more exaggerated when shooting handheld with a telephoto zoom lens – making it easier for photographers to capture crisp and striking images in all conditions.

The lens’ new optical design includes 15 elements arranged in 12 groups, with an improved focusing distance of just 0.85m throughout its zoom range. An Electro Magnetic Diaphragm (EMD) with a circular aperture gives photographers fine control over aperture and smooth, blurred backgrounds, while an Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) lens tackles chromatic aberration, ensuring images are as sharp and clear as they appear to the human eye. Canon’s optimised Super Spectra Coating also minimises internal reflections, as well as ghosting and flare.

The redesigned lens now incorporates a non-rotating front element, ensuring a consistent effect when a filter is attached to the front of the lens. Weighing just 375g the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS is incredibly compact and lightweight – making it easy to carry around whilst on holiday or at family events.
Pricing and availability
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM will be available in the UK and Ireland from late September 2013 with an SRP of £349.99 / €419.99

EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM key features:

Compact, lightweight telephoto zoom lens

Image Stabilizer guards against blur from camera shake
STM technology for smooth, quiet focusing
Minimum focusing distance of 0.85m
High quality UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) lens element

Canon PowerShot SX510 HS & SX170 IS

Canon today added two new models to its collection of superzoom cameras. The PowerShot SX510 HS (£289.99/€349.99/$249.99)boasts a 30x optical zoom lens and a 12.1-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor, and offers onboard Wi-Fi connectivity. In addition to capturing high-resolution stills, the camera is also capable of recording Full HD movies with stereo sound, and features a Super Slow Motion Movie mode. The PowerShot SX170 IS (£169.99/€199.99/$179.99, pictured) combines an optically stabilised 28-450mm equivalent lens with a 16-megapixel sensor, and offers 720p HD video recording capabilities. The PowerShot SX510HS and PowerShot SX170 IS are available in the UK & Ireland from 23rd August.
Canon Press Release
For the ultimate in superzoom – Canon unveils new PowerShot SX510 HS and PowerShot SX170 IS

United Kingdom, Republic Of Ireland, 22 August 2013 – Canon today adds to its collection of powerful compact superzooms with the introduction of the PowerShot SX510 HS and PowerShot SX170 IS – two new cameras that get users even closer to the action. Despite its size, the PowerShot SX510 HS features a 30x zoom and onboard Wi-Fi, providing the ability to capture subjects in the far distance in stunning detail and share straight from the camera.
PowerShot SX510 HS
Offering greater flexibility to capture a range of subjects, the PowerShot SX510 HS’ powerful 30x optical zoom lens delivers sharp results throughout the zoom range, even in low-light conditions, whilst the 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing anything from sweeping landscapes to group shots of friends. The SX510 HS uses the HS System, which combines a 12.1 Megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor with a DIGIC 4 processor to capture the true ambience of low-light scenes at times like dusk, while maintaining the realism of colours and rich detail, with minimum blur.
Using the Wi-Fi functionality on the PowerShot SX510 HS, photos and movies can be shared on social media sites such as Facebook®, Flickr® and YouTube® directly from the camera, or to smartphones and tablets using the free Canon CameraWindow app.¹ GPS via mobile is also available by using the free Canon smartphone app to add location information from a GPS-enabled smartphone or tablet to images, allowing users to share the exact location of the moment a photo was captured.
In addition to outstanding still images, the PowerShot SX510 HS is also capable of recording Full HD Movies (1080p) complete with stereo sound. Providing a dramatic way to capture the action when shooting fast-moving subjects, the SX510 HS also features Super Slow Motion Movie mode.
PowerShot SX170 IS
Compact and easy-to-use, the PowerShot SX170 IS boasts a versatile lens, with a 28mm wide-angle and 16x optical zoom. The lens enables users to snap a wide variety of scenarios, from group shots at parties, to close-ups of animals on safari. Vivid colours and striking detail can also be captured with the PowerShot SX170 IS’s powerful 16 megapixel sensor creating images that consumers will be proud of. The SX170 IS is also capable of capturing special moments in high-quality HD movie footage.
High quality performance
Both cameras benefit from Canon’s industry-renowned optical Image Stabilizer with Intelligent IS technology that makes it easy to capture sharp shots at longer focal lengths and in low light.
Canon’s ZoomPlus technology also digitally extends both models’ lens reach beyond the maximum focal length while maintaining high image quality, zooming as far as 60x on the PowerShot SX510 HS and 32x on the PowerShot SX170 IS.  The PowerShot SX510 HS also includes an enhanced Zoom Framing Assist function with a new Auto mode, which ensures subjects are always in focus even as they move closer to, or away from, the camera.
Both models also feature Eco mode, which helps users continue shooting for longer by conserving battery life. Up to 46% more photos can be captured on the PowerShot SX170 IS and 32% more on the PowerShot SX510 HS thanks to this feature – perfect for family days out, or holiday use.
Creativity in an instant
Smart Auto mode on both models detects up to 32 different scenes and applies the most appropriate settings to capture the perfect shot, whilst Creative modes can be used to enhance an image, add drama, or give it a unique, fun perspective. Once users are ready to experiment even more, they can easily switch to Full Manual Control to take control of individual camera settings, including shutter speed and aperture.
Pricing and availability
The PowerShot SX510HS and PowerShot SX170 IS are available in the UK & Ireland from 23rd August 2013 with an SRP of:
PowerShot SX510 HS - £289.99/€349.99
PowerShot SX170 IS - £169.99/€199.99
PowerShot SX510 HS – Key features:
Mini 30x ultra-zoom camera with 24mm wide lens
HS System: 12.1 MP CMOS, DIGIC 4
Intelligent IS, Enhanced Dynamic IS
Wi-Fi²; GPS via mobile
Full HD, HDMI
Large 7.5 cm (3.0") LCD
Smart Auto detects 32 scenes
Zoom Framing Assist
Full Manual control
PowerShot SX170 IS – Key features:
16x optical zoom, 28mm wide Canon lens
16 Megapixels
Intelligent IS
Large 7.5 cm (3.0") LCD; Hints & Tips
Smart Auto mode detects 32 scenes
HD movies
Fun Creative Filters
Full Manual control
Eco mode
Rechargeable Li-ion battery
¹ Compatibility varies by device. For more information visit: http://www.canon-europe.com/wirelesscompact
² Wi-Fi support varies by device and region. For more information visit: http://www.canon-europe.com/wirelesscompant

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