Manfrotto Upgrades Kata D-Light Range

Manfrotto Distribution has unveiled the latest models in the Kata D-Light Camera Bag line. Among the new models are new versions of the classic Kata DR Digital Rucksacks and new creations with the D-Light Lite Shoulder Bags, D-Light Gearpack Backpacks and the D-Light HandsFree Waistpacks. “These new products add key styles to popular categories of our already successful D-Light line of camera bags” said Doug Feldner, Category Manager, Kata & National Geographic Brands. “As with all D-Light products, these additions make Kata’s Lightweight Protection Technology available at price points that are perfect for beginning or advanced photography enthusiasts.” Click through / read on for the details.
Manfrotto Press Release
Manfrotto Distribution & Kata Introduce Next Generation of D-Light Camera Bags
Ramsey, N.J. (July 16, 2012) — Manfrotto Distribution is introducing the latest models in the popular Kata D-Light Camera Bag line. Geared toward the hobbyist and amateur photographer, the D-Light collection is a stylish and functional range of products that offers a great value to photographers, providing the quality and protection that has become a staple with Kata products. Among these new models are new versions of the classic Kata DR Digital Rucksacks and new creations with the D-Light Lite Shoulder Bags, D-Light Gearpack Backpacks and the D-Light HandsFree Waistpacks.
“These new products add key styles to popular categories of our already successful D-Light line of camera bags” said Doug Feldner, Category Manager, Kata & National Geographic Brands. “As with all D-Light products, these additions make Kata’s Lightweight Protection Technology available at price points that are perfect for beginning or advanced photography enthusiasts.”
KATA D-LIGHT DR DIGITAL RUCKSACKS
The DR Rucksacks, industry best-sellers for years, are now updated into the D-Light product line. The new D-Light DR Rucksacks take the features and benefits of the original DR design and incorporate them into a sleek new look.  These Rucksacks allow you to comfortably carry a DSLR with mounted lens, additional lenses, flash and personal gear. An upper compartment is perfect for carrying additional photo gear or personal items such as a light jacket, book or sunglasses.  By removing the padded bottom insert photographers can easily convert this rucksack from a camera bag to a regular daypack when not shooting. 
·      D-Light DR-465: The Digital Rucksack 465 DL will hold a DSLR with mounted lens, 2-3 lenses, flash and personal gear. Price: $89.99
·      D-Light DR-466: The Digital Rucksack 466 DL will hold a DSLR with mounted lens, 3-4 additional lenses, flash and personal gear, as well as most laptops up to 15.4”.
Price: $99.99
·      D-Light DR-467: The Digital Rucksack 467 DL will hold a DSLR with mounted lens, 3-4 additional lenses, flash and personal gear, as well as most laptops up to 17”.
Price: $109.99
KATA D-LIGHT LITE SHOULDER BAGS
The D-Light Lite Shoulder Bags are compact camera bags with various carrying options. Made with an elegant yet utilitarian design, the Lite Shoulder Bags are the perfect carrying solution for almost any photographer.  With eight sizes to choose from, the D-Light Lite Shoulder Bags are equipped to hold everything from a Point & Shoot camera, mirrorless camera or Handycam to a Pro-DSLR with mounted zoom lens and battery, and up 3-5 additional lenses.
·      D-Light Lite 431 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-431 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a Point & Shoot camera, mirror-less camera or Handycam, plus accessories. Price: $29.99
·      D-Light Lite 433 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-433 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a DSLR with short lens or a camcorder, plus accessories. Price: $34.99
·      D-Light Lite 435 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-435 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a DSLR with standard zoom lens plus accessories. Price: $39.99
·      D-Light Lite 437 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-437 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a DSLR with standard zoom lens, or Handycam, plus accessories. Price: $44.99
·      D-Light Lite 439 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-439 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a DSLR with standard zoom lens, or Handycam, plus accessories. Price: $49.99
·      D-Light Lite 441 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-441 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a DSLR with mounted zoom lens, or Handycam, 2-3 additional lenses, plus accessories. Price: $54.99
·      D-Light Lite 443 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-443 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a Pro-DSLR with mounted zoom lens and battery, or camcorder, 3-4 additional lenses and flash plus accessories. Price: $64.99
·      D-Light Lite 445 Shoulder Bag: The Lite-445 DL Shoulder Bag will hold a Pro-DSLR with mounted zoom lens and battery, or Handycam, 3-5 additional lenses and flash plus accessories. Price: $69.99
KATA D-LIGHT GEARPACK BACKPACKS
Sometimes a photograper just needs to carry gear.  On days like this, the D-Light Gearpacks are the perfect solution.  The D-Light GearPack backpack is the ideal compact carrying solution for a day of shooting, with all three models equipped to fit a DSLR with various additional accessories. The Gearpack can also be used to carry a compact camcorder with accessories.
·      D-Light GearPack 60 Backpack: The GearPack-60 DL Micro Backpack fits a DSLR with mounted lens + 2additional lenses, flash and accessories. The backpack also fits a compact camcorder plus accessories. Price: $59.99
·      D-Light GearPack 80 Backpack: The GearPack-80 DL Micro Backpack fits a DSLR with mounted 70-200mm lens + 2 additional lenses, flash and accessories. The backpack also fits a compact camcorder plus accessories and an iPad/tablet in protective sleeve can fit in front pocket. Price: $74.99
·      D-Light GearPack 100 Backpack: The GearPack-100 DL Micro Backpack fits a DSLR with mounted 70-100mm lens + 3 additional lenses, flash and accessories. The backpack also fits a compact camcorder plus accessories and an iPad/tablet in protective sleeve can fit in front pocket. Price: $89.99
KATA D-LIGHT HANDSFREE WAISTPACKS
The D-Light HandsFree Waistpack is designed to hold, protect and organize a photographers compact DSLR with lens attached. The lid opens away from the body to access the main compartment which holds camera/camcorder on top or side grip position for quick draw. The two large side pockets store and protect additional lenses, flash or water bottle. The built-in lid pocket stores media cards and batteries close at hand.
·      D-Light HandsFree 493 Waistpack: The HandsFree-493 DL Waistpack is capable of holding a compact DSLR with mid-range zoom lens attached, plus two additional lenses and accessories or a Handycam. Price: $59.99
·      D-Light HandsFree 495 Waistpack: The HandsFree-495 DL Waistpack will hold a compact DSLR with mid-range zoom lens attached, plus two additional lenses and accessories or a Handycam. Price: $69.99

Upcoming Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-150mm f/4-5.6 HD OIS Lens

A new Panasonic Micro Four Thirds lens spilled out onto the interweb this week ahead of its official unveiling.  The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-150mm f/4-5.6 HD OIS lens should be along soon – with the HD emblem suggesting that this lens will be optimized for silent video operation like the classic HD 14-140mm f/4-5.8 lens.
Perhaps this is a replacement for the current 45-200mm f/4-5.6 OIS non-HD lens, or just a video-optimized version to complement the line-up?
[via Photo Rumors]

Sinarback eXact is a 192MP Medium Format Digital Back

Sinar has announced a new medium format back that is capable of capturing 192MP images courtesy of a 48.8MP image sensor that measures 48mm x 36mm.  The back acheives this via a multi-shot mode, described below.

The Sinarback eXact features multiple shooting modes, as per the table below…
As you can see, there are two XL modes where the back shoots with an effective 192 MP sensor. There’s the XL 4-shot mode, which provides 192 MP ‘single-shot quality’, however, there’s also the XL 16- shot mode, which samples real colours from the subject for each half-pixel step in both directions.
And it’s this method, which provides un-interpolated colour sampling for cleaner more accurate colours with greater contour sharpness unmatched by any other device.

Camera compatibilty includes the following models:
Sinar p3/p2/p/x view cameras, Sinar m, Sinar Hy6, Sinarcam 2; Contax 645 AF; Fuji GX 680 I, II, III; Hasselblad V, H1, H2; Mamiya RZ 67/Pro II, RB 67, 645 AFD, AFD II, 645 Super, Pro, Pro6008, 6008 Integral, 6008 Integral2, 6008 AF. Any non-Sinar 4×5“ view cameras via Graflock adapter
More details on Sinar’s website.
[via Photo Rumors

CameraImageSensor.com Launches

Idan Shechter, founder and owner of camerasize.com, has just launched a new website that allows users to visually compare camera sensor sizes. “Sensor sensor sizes like 1/2.33” or 1” didn’t really give me a good idea how small the sensor of the camera really is,” Idan says. “So I’ve decided to create a new web app that will allow me and others to really understand how large / small a specific sensor is in relative to other sensors.” You can try out the new web app for yourself at the website below.
Website: CameraImageSensor.com

Samsung NX20 Firmware Update 1.01

Samsung has issued a firmware update for the Samsung NX20 compact system camera. Version 1.01 adds support for external microphones and a number of new menu languages, fixes a few bugs related to Wi-Fi compatibility and other areas, and adds a new new menu item called Horizontal Calibration. You can download the firmware update from the website below.
Website: Samsung

New BlackRapid Straps for Left-Handed Photographers

JP Distribution has announced two new straps from BlackRapid. Designed specifically for left-handed photographers, the BlackRapid RS-Sport L and RS-Sport 2 L each feature an integrated underarm stabiliser that holds the shoulder pad in position on the right shoulder. Priced at £75, the R-Strap is worn diagonally across the torso from right shoulder to left hip, and adjusts to fit most photographers.
JPDistribution Press Release
New BlackRapid Straps for Left-Handed Photographers

JP Distribution is pleased to announce two new straps from award winning manufacturer BlackRapid.
The BlackRapid RS-Sport L and RS-Sport 2 L have been designed for the active left-handed photographer. The integrated underarm stabiliser holds the shoulder pad in position on the right shoulder. The perfect accessory for the photographer who goes climbing a rock face, skiing down a glacier, or riding a mountain bike. The front has a red R-label, expanding BlackRapid’s Adventure Line.
The R-Strap is worn diagonally across the torso from right shoulder to left hip, and adjusts to fit most photographers.

Features
Left-handed camera grip
Integrated underarm stabilising grip
Ergonomic shoulder pad
ConnectR hardware locks for extra security
RS-Sport 2 L for smaller bodied users
Robust stainless steel FastenR fits all standard 3/4” - 20 tripod sockets

Canon’s Next Full Frame Camera

Fall 2012
Once again, we hear about a new “entry level” full frame camera being added to the Canon lineup in the fall. The specs for the camera have been quite broad, which is normal when there are various prototypes out and about. Below are the most talked about specifications, and probably the closest to the actual camera.
Specifications

• 22mp (Same sensor as 5D3)
• 19 AF Points
• 4fps
• ISO 100-51200
• 3″ LCD
• Smaller than the 5D Mark II
• More Plastic than metal in the construction
• Pop-Up Flash (On at least one prototype)
• $1999 USD at launch
• Launched with a new non-L full frame kit lens (Undisclosed what the lens is)
• Compatible with full frame STM lenses

Via: http://www.canonrumors.com

Olympus Updates OM-D E-M5 Firmware, Leaves Mac Users Out in the Cold

Update: It looks like the update is working on Macs just fine, even if it isn’t showing up online. Thanks to all our E-M5 toting readers for letting us know!

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Firmware updates come pretty often, so they don’t typically make news unless they bring with them a particularly impressive set of improvements, like v2.0 for Canon’s 7D a few weeks back. And although Olympus’ firmware version 1.2 for the OM-D E-M5 does help improve the functionality of your camera, it’s also being talked about for another reason entirely.
As we mentioned, the update does bring a few noteworthy improvements to the table — among them improved “sleep recovery operation” and the addition of an autofocus tracking point for use when shooting in the camera’s Sequential L setting — but it’s also making headlines because it seems that Mac users don’t get it. As of right now, Windows users can download and install the update using Olympus’ Digital Camera Updater, but when the operating system is changed to OS X, users are met with the message that “No software is available at this time.”
Of course, it is possible that this is just an online error, but since none of us here own an E-M5 we’ll leave it up to you to let us know if the Mac version of your updater is showing the new firmware as downloadable or not. Whatever the case, don’t forget to drop us a line in the comments down below once you find out.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Firmware v1.2 (via PopPhoto)

Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Gets a Price Tag

Sigma USA has revealed the estimated street price and availability of the Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens. Announced in January, the new APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is billed as the world’s first 180mm f/2.8 macro lens with a 1:1 reproduction ratio. In addition to the faster maximum aperture, the new lens also offers optical image stabilisation and a quiet “hypersonic” AF motor. Three “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements, which have a performance equal to fluorite glass, are included to provide correction for colour aberrations, while the Super Multi-Layer Coating is claimed to reduce flare and ghosting. The Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM will be available in the United States on July 27 for the street price of $1,699.
Sigma Press Release
Sigma Corporation of America announces pricing and availability for 180mm F2.8 macro lens
Sigma Corporation of America announces pricing and availability for 180mm F2.8 macro lens
World’s first 1:1 180mm F2.8 macro lens arrives in the US in July for street price of $1,699

RONKONKOMA, NY July 13, 2012 – Sigma Corporation, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world’s most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, has announced that the Sigma APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM will be available in the United States on July 27 for the street price of $1,699.

The new APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens boasts Sigma’s proprietary Optical Stabilizer (OS) technology and a wide F2.8 aperture to allow faster shutter speeds for narrow depth of field. With the OS feature, the lens offers the use of shutter speeds approximately four stops slower than would otherwise be possible, enabling handheld, close-up photography. Three “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements, which have a performance equal to fluorite glass, are included to provide excellent correction for color aberrations, and an inner focusing system enables this lens to photograph objects precisely throughout the entire focusing range. Overall length does not change during focusing.

“Macro photography is becoming quite popular and we’ve been growing our lineup of macro lenses as a result,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “We’re filling a gap in the industry by introducing the world’s first 1:1 180mm F2.8 lens to the market. The Optical Stabilizer technology and the larger focusing distance also provide photographers with more control for highly sensitive subjects that are on the move, like butterflies and insects.”

Equipped with the Super Multi-Layer Coating feature, the APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens reduces flare and ghosting, and delivers sharp and high contrast images, even in backlit conditions. The incorporation of Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures quiet and high-speed autofocus, as well as full-time manual focus override capability. The macro lens has a rounded nine-blade diaphragm to create an attractive blur to the image’s out-of-focus areas. At 1:1 magnification, this lens has a focusing distance of 18.5 inches, which is a greater working distance than shorter focal length macro lenses, making it advantageous when taking pictures of highly sensitive subjects. It is also compatible with Sigma’s 1.4x EX DG APO and 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters. 

To locate an authorized Sigma dealer near you, visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com/where-to-buy-sigma. To use Sigma’s new Lens Finder Tool to find the best glass to suit your needs, visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com/sigma-lens-finder. For information about Sigma Corporation of America, visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com, or follow the company on Twitter and Facebook.

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 anemphasis 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.

Canon Mirrorless Camera to Get APS-C Format Sensor?

The latest rumblings of Canon’s upcoming mirrorless format suggest that the sensor within will be larger than the Canon G1 X-sized sensor that has been previously rumored.  Instead, it seems that the popular 18MP sensor found in the Canon Rebel T4i will find its into the Canon mirrorless camera.
This seems like it will be a big win for Canon, if true, as it would enable the Canon mirrorless system to more directly compete with the strong offering from Sony’s NEX line of mirrorless cameras – with a standard-sized sensor and an apples-to-apples competition with what I think is the current king of the mirrorless market.
What are your thoughts on Canon using the larger, 1.6x crop APS-C format over the previously-rumored 1.85x crop sensor?
[via Canon Rumors and Northlight]

Noiseware 5 Plugin for Photoshop

Imagenomic just announced Noiseware 5, an update to the Noiseware Pro noise reduction plugin for Photoshop.
Noiseware 5 features several new and improved enhancements, including a faster core algorithm that retains more image detail, a newly-designed user interface and controls, the ability to create an unlimited number of presets, and a new history control for an unlimited number of history steps.  In addition, Noiseware 5 plugin provides 64-bit native support for Mac OS X to complement the existing compatibility for Windows systems, as well as full compatibility with Adobe Photoshop CS6.
Noiseware 5 retails for $79.95 and is free upgrade for existing Noiseware Pro users.  Noiseware 5 is available for purchase or a free 15-day trial on Imagenomic’s website.

Patents – EF 600 f/5.6 DO & 800 f/5.6 DO

More diffractive optics
Canon seems to still invest significant money into developing their diffractive optics technology. Currently Canon has 2 DO lenses, the very good 400 f/4 DO IS and the decent 70-300 DO IS.

EF 600mm f/5.6 DO

Making long lenses that are smaller and lighter will always be desired, especially with the boom in digital cinema cameras and wildlife photography.
More patents have appeared, one for a 600 f/5.6 DO  and another for an 800 f/5.6 DO. The 800 would measure a miniscule 46cm in length.

EF 800mm f/5.6 DO

Chances of coming to market? I think it’s a pretty solid bet we’re going to see new DO lenses announced sometime. When? Your guess is as good as mine.

BlackRapid ProtectR Now Available in UK

JP Distribution has announced the UK availability of the new ProtectR security sleeve from BlackRapid. Featuring a strong 1.5mm gauge cable that wraps around BlackRapid camera straps to prevent them from being cut from behind, the BlackRapid ProtectR also adds a level of deterrence by featuring two small cut-aways in the thermoset polymer fabric (TPF) to reveal the steel cable inside. The security sleeve comes in two sizes, regular (£27) and long (£30).
JPDistribution Press Release
BlackRapid ProtectR Security Sleeve

JP Distribution is pleased to announce the new ProtectR security sleeve from award winning manufacturer BlackRapid.
ProtectR features a strong 1.5mm gauge cable enclosed in 16oz rugged, thermoset polymer fabric (TPF), which wraps around BlackRapid camera straps to prevent the strap from being cut from behind. This added protection in unfamiliar surroundings.
In addition to making the strap safe and secure, the ProtectR adds a level of deterrence by featuring two small cut-aways in the TPF to reveal the inside cable, so photographers can focus on living in and capturing the moment, and not worrying about their gear.
There are 2 ProtectR security sleeves available;
ProtectR (Regular) - £27 Inc VAT
For use when straps are extended half length.
ProtectR (Long) - £30 Inc VAT
For use when straps are extended full length.

WebRotate 360 Product Viewer v3

The new WebRotate 360 Product Viewer v3 features a simple 360° photography publishing software integrating various product presentation capabilities for both mobile and desktop browsers. “It’s a unique 360 product viewer with hot-spots and deep zoom capabilities that runs well in web browsers without Flash and on devices such as iPad and iPhone,” says Business Development Manager Irina Berry. Click through ! scroll down for more information including links to a few samples posted on the company’s website.
Website: WebRotate 360
Website: 360° Product Views
Websrotate 360 Press Release
WebRotate 360 Product Viewer v3 Delivers Best In Class Feature Set and Full Mobile Support
WebRotate 360 announces the release of their latest version of WebRotate 360 Product Viewer with new and unique product presentation capabilities, including 360 product view, product slideshow, deep zoom and extensive interactive hot-spots and annotations.
Pasadena, CA (PRWEB) July 10, 2012
WebRotate 360 LLC today announced WebRotate 360 Product Viewer v3 which provides the richest set of features and best value available for online retail and product marketing. This latest release incorporates several years of research and development and features a simple 360 photography publishing software which made WebRotate 360 Product Viewer a software of choice for many companies and digital media agencies worldwide.
“With this release our main objective is to finally embrace the mobile world and give our customers more interactive capabilities in the same lightweight and flexible package that our product is known for” said Dimitri Bir, Founder of WebRotate 360. “While mobile e-commerce is booming, we see existing web technologies still lacking the interactivity that becomes very important for successful online business. We want to provide broader set of tools and technologies to fill the growing gap and version 3.0 of WebRotate 360 Product Viewer is a major step in this direction. Our feature set and simple pricing works equally well for a small 360 photography studio and a multinational online retailer, and we want to keep it this way.”
WebRotate 360 Product Viewer v3 is the only out-of-the-box solution that seamlessly integrates various product presentation capabilities for both mobile and desktop browsers. It gives marketing managers, advertisers, agencies and photographers without web development experience a simple way of creating professional highly interactive product presentations that can be quickly incorporated into existing web sites.
Its main features include:
- Fine-tuned for e-commerce.
- 360 product viewing with interactive hot-spots and annotations.
- Interactive product slideshows with deep zoom.
- iPad, iPhone support and support for major browsers with or without HTML5.
- No server side scripts required (runs inside client browser).
- Simple integration and maintenance.
- Content delivery network support.
- Highly configurable (sizes, features, colors, controls, etc.).
- Extensive hot-spot customization with granular control.
- Included 360 photography software for quick creation of interactive 360 views.
- Can be hosted anywhere (no hidden or requiring fees, login accounts or vendor lock-in).
About WebRotate 360 LLC:
WebRotate 360 LLC are specialists in rich media solutions and web development for Internet retailers, e-commerce providers, manufacturers, and marketing agencies. Located in Pasadena, California, WebRotate 360 has customers in industries ranging from electronics, apparel and accessories to sporting goods and outdoor equipment.

Wacom Cintiq 24HD touch and Cintiq 22HD

Wacom has unveiled two Cintiq pen displays, the Cintiq 24HD touch and Cintiq 22HD. The Cintiq 24HD touch closely replicates the experience of working with two hands when using traditional materials such as paints, markers and clay and provides a natural input experience for all related activities including concept sketching, illustration and especially 3D activities. The Cintiq 22HD, on the other hand, offers a pen-on-screen experience that delivers the natural feel, response and results derived from working with traditional brushes, pencils and pens. Both the Cintiq 24HD touch and Cintiq 22HD support Wacom’s Art Pen and Airbrush accessory pens to deliver natural brush effects within Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator (CS3 and above) as well as Corel Painter (10 and above). The Cintiq 22HD ($1999) will be available in the latter part of July and the Cintiq 24HD touch ($3699) is expected to ship in August.
Wacom Press Release
New Wacom Cintiqs Paint a Pretty Picture
The Cintiq 24HD touch and Cintiq 22HD provide an immersive and natural pen-on-screen experience for professional creators of digital content
VANCOUVER, Wash., July10, 2012 /PRNewswire/—Tailored around the increasing demands of creative professionals, Wacom® announces two new members of the Cintiq® family of interactive pen displays, the Cintiq 24HD touch and Cintiq 22HD. Artists and designers now have two new options for working directly on screen. As with the Cintiq 24HD, Wacom’s latest Cintiqs feature best-in-class widescreen HD displays, ultra-wide viewing angles and premium color performance.  To give professional artists and designers enhanced focus on their work and creativity, Wacom introduces the powerful combination of a precision pen and natural multi-touch. With the addition of these models to the Cintiq lineup, anyone, from freelance industrial designers sketching in a small studio to Hollywood animators creating the next blockbuster movie, can find a Cintiq that best fits their workflow.
The Cintiq 24HD touch: Hot Color, Cool Touch!
To offer users an immersive experience and a more intuitive and natural way to work, the new Cintiq 24HD touch combines Wacom’s multi-touch with its renowned pen technology.  The Cintiq 24HD touch closely replicates the experience of working with two hands when using traditional materials such as paints, markers and clay while giving the artist powerful capabilities that only exist in today’s creative software applications. “Increasingly, as creative software incorporates multi-touch interaction and gesture support, the Cintiq 24HD touch provides a natural input experience for all related activities including concept sketching, illustration and especially 3D activities such as sculpting, modeling and animation,” says Don Varga, Professional Products Brand Director. “The ability to manipulate a 3D model or pan, zoom and rotate an image with one hand while simultaneously sculpting or sketching with the other delivers a completely natural experience enabling artists to stay completely in their creative zone.”
Support for Wacom’s advanced multi-touch is available in Corel®‘s latest Painter™ 12.2 update and provides a harmonious digital painting experience to artists. “With the introduction of multi-touch, Wacom has created a highly evolved environment for Corel Painter users to work with the power of digital tools but in a completely natural and intuitive way. Multi-touch allows users to directly manipulate their work by spinning, pinching and moving it around, instead of searching for buttons or quick keys to perform the same actions,” said Nick Davies, Executive Vice President of Graphics and Productivity at Corel.
Professionals with color-critical workflows, such as photographers, graphic designers, video and film editors as well as animators and game developers will benefit from the Cintiq 24HD’s life-like color quality which displays 1.07 billion colors and 97 percent of Adobe’s color gamut.  “For many creative workflows the calibration of color for the entire project is a necessity,” continues Varga.  “Given the color gamut of the Cintiq 24HD touch, artists can be certain that the colors they see while working on the Cintiq can be calibrated to match the printing or other output phases of a project.”
As with the Cintiq 24HD, the Cintiq 24HD touch offers best-in-class ergonomics. Professionals working long hours will appreciate the counter-weighted stand that adjusts to their favorite positions for maximum comfort.  For example, one can bring the display surface over the edge of the desk so that it rests comfortably just above the lap or the display can be adjusted to more vertical, easel-like positions.
In addition, frequently used shortcut commands are available at the user’s fingertips through the application-specific, customizable ExpressKeys™ and Touch Rings of the Cintiq 24HD touch.  Employing these shortcuts can save valuable time by minimizing keyboard dependency.
The Cintiq 22HD: Express Yourself!
With Wacom’s new Cintiq 22HD widescreen interactive pen display, illustrators, designers and artists can interact with their artwork on a more personal level. By offering a pen-on-screen experience that delivers the same natural feel, response and results derived from working with traditional brushes, pencils and pens, the Cintiq 22HD workflow allows users to unleash their creativity and express themselves just like they would with real paint on canvas or real ink on paper.  Additionally, the Cintiq 22HD’s unique stand is ideal for artists who prefer to rotate their entire display as part of their workflow.
“Creative professionals want their technology to be invisible,” says Varga.  “That is, they need their tools of the trade to be natural, seamless and comfortable.  The Cintiq 22HD meets these requirements with ergonomic features to help increase comfort and productivity.”
To improve workflow and creative output, the Cintiq 22HD offers eight customizable, application-specific ExpressKeys located on each side of the display’s bezel.  Additionally, user-defined Touch Strips, conveniently placed on the back of each side of the display, can be used for such functions as zoom, scroll, brush size and canvas rotation. “Artists and designers appreciate the comfort and freedom that the Cintiq provides, especially during long sessions of drawing or sketching,” continues Varga.
Scintillating Cintiq Pen
Pen performance remains the key ingredient to the whole interactive pen display experience and Wacom’s two new Cintiqs do not disappoint.  Delivering virtually the same feel and feedback as traditional brushes and pens, both Cintiqs feature Wacom’s professional-level pen performance to produce dazzling artistic effects within creative software applications from Adobe®, Corel®, Autodesk® and many more. Both the Cintiq 24HD touch and Cintiq 22HD support the Art Pen and Airbrush accessory pens to deliver natural brush effects within Adobe® Photoshop® and Illustrator® (CS3 and above) as well as Corel® Painter™ (10 and above).
Choosing a Cintiq
With four Cintiqs now in the family (Cintiq 12WX, Cintiq 22HD, Cintiq 24HD and Cintiq 24HD touch), Wacom offers a line of interactive pen displays that each have their own set of unique features and characteristics.  Choosing the best model ultimately boils down to matching personal workflows with the right Cintiq.
Availability and Pricing
The Cintiq 22HD ($1999 USD) will be available in the latter part of July and the Cintiq 24HD touch ($3699 USD) is expected to ship in August.
About Wacom
Wacom’s vision to bring people and technology closer together through natural interface technologies has made it the world’s leading manufacturer of pen tablets, interactive pen displays and digital interface solutions. The advanced technology of Wacom’s intuitive input devices has been used to create some of the most exciting digital art, films, special effects, fashions and designs around the world.  Wacom devices provide business and home users with the ability to explore digital content creation in a comfortable, natural way.
Source: PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1hpdY)

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Firmware Update 1.2

Olympus have released a firmware update for the OM-D E-M5 compact system camera. Version 1.2 incorporates the following improvements:

• Improved sleep recovery operation
• AF target is indicated while using C-AF+TR in sequential shooting mode L
• M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-50mm 1:3.5-6.3 underwater support has been added
  When using underwater macro or underwater wide mode the lens will move automatically in tele or wide setting

You can download and install the firmware update using the Olympus Camera Updater application.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 800mm f/5.6

 

Nikon has announced the upcoming release of a weather sealed 800mm f/5.6 Nikkor lens with auto-focus capabilities. Compatible with both FX and DX digital SLR bodies, the new lens will boast the longest focal length of any AF Nikkor to date. Nikon’s new 800mm lens is scheduled to be on display at Photokina, 18-23 September 2012. The full specifications, release date and suggested retail price have not yet been determined. Judging by the number of controls on the lens barrel, we fully expect the lens to a offer a focus limiter, Vibration Reduction with different VR modes, full-time manual focus override and perhaps a few other functions (e.g. on-lens AF-Lock and AF-On buttons or a Focus Preset feature etc.). Do note however that the appearance of the final version of the lens might differ from the picture above.
Nikon Press Release
Nikon to release a super-telephoto, 800-mm, fixed focal length lens for professional photographers
July 12, 2012
TOKYO - Nikon Corporation will add the super-telephoto 800-mm, fixed local length lens to its lineup of NIKKOR lenses. This lens will offer a fixed focal length of 800 mm, a maximum aperture of f/5.6, and will be fully compatible with Nikon FX-format cameras.
This lens has been developed in order to strengthen the NIKKOR lineup of super-telephoto lenses. It will boast the longest focal length of any NIKKOR autofocus lens, and will be best suited to capture of a wide variety of decisive outdoor scenes, from sporting events to wildlife. In addition to its superior optical performance, the lens will offer dust and water resistance.
In 2012, Nikon released three new FX-format digital-SLR cameras—the D4, the new flagship digital SLR, and the D800 and D800E, which offer incredible resolution and image quality. In addition to reinforcing its lineup of FX-format digital-SLR cameras, Nikon has also been working to expand the lineup of NIKKOR lenses.
Nikon has been providing service and support to professional photographers for roughly fifty years through the activities of its Nikon Professional Services (NPS). In addition to providing maintenance and repairs for the equipment professional photographers use every day, NPS service depots are set up at a variety of international sporting and cultural events. At these service depots, photographers can have their equipment inspected and repaired, and they can also borrow equipment.
Nikon has been also an official sponsor of The Open Championship since 1993. The Open Championship is the oldest of the world’s four major tournaments* in professional golf (the next Open Championship will be held at Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club in Lancashire, England between July 19 and 22, 2012). This lens is scheduled to be on display at the Nikon service depot that will be set up for professional photographers working at the event.
Furthermore, this lens is scheduled to be on display at Photokina 2012, one of the world’s largest photo and imaging exhibitions, to be held in Cologne, Germany from September 18–23, 2012.
*World’s four major golf tournaments: Masters Tournament, U.S. Open Championship, The Open Championship, PGA Championship
As a leader in the professional imaging market, Nikon will continue to develop and release products offering superior performance and functionality based on the optical technologies it has cultivated over its long history. Nikon will also continue to strive to strengthen and improve the service and support it offers to its professional customers.
Release date and suggested retail price for this product have not yet been determined.
*Specification and equipment are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of manufacturer. Exterior finishing and design are not final.

Magix Photostory on DVD MX

 

Magix has announced the release of PhotoStory on DVD MX and PhotoStory on DVD MX Deluxe. Magix PhotoStory on DVD MX (Version 11) allows users to transform their photos and movie clips into video slideshows with text, music and special effects, create interactive DVDs, and more. In addition, they can export their shows to USB sticks and memory cards, and share them online. PhotoStory on DVD MX Deluxe additionally supports HD output and comes with advanced design options, templates and an expanded effects library as well as customisable zooming and panning actions, and many further extras. Magix PhotoStory on DVD MX and Magix PhotoStory on DVD MX Deluxe are available now for £39.99 and £69.99 respectively from Amazon and PC World.
Magix Press Release
NEW MAGIX Photostory on DVD MX*
First - Class Multimedia Slideshows For TV, PC, Web, Blu-ray and Mobile Devices
UK, July 11th, 2012, MAGIX AG, One of the leading international providers of software, online services, and digital content, has announced the release of Photostory on DVD MX* and PhotoStory on DVD MX* Deluxe.
With MAGIX PhotoStory on DVD MX (Version 11) you can effortlessly transform your photos and video clips into fascinating slideshows with text, music and spectacular effects. Create interactive DVDs and experience your greatest memories over and over again on TV or PC. In addition, you can export your shows to USB sticks, SD cards, and share online.
Photostory on DVD MX Main Features:
Slideshows for your TV, PC & the Web
Complete with your pictures, videos, music, text & effects
Automatically create & customize
A variety of templates for interactive disc menus
Export as video to USB sticks, SD cards, private networks and share online
MAGIX PhotoStory on DVD MX Deluxe (Version 11) is the multi-award winning solution for creating multimedia slideshows! With over 50 additional deluxe extras! photos, or business presentations you can easily transform your photos and video clips into fascinating slideshows featuring text, music, and spectacular effects.  Create interactive DVDs and experience your greatest memories over and over again on TV. Or export your slideshows for other media (e.g. USB stick, SD card, PC, projector, Internet, digital picture frames, mobile players).
Photostory on DVD MX Deluxe Main Features:
Slideshows for TV, PC, Web, Blu-ray, projectors & mobile devices
HD Quality
3D movie theatre look
Travel route animation
Advanced design options, templates & effect library
Customized zooms & panning shots
Dynamic effect changes
Special features for video clips
Embed media directly from the Internet
Powerful audio dubbing (e.g. images that change to the beat of the music)
Disc authoring with advanced menu design
Additional extra tools
*MX allows for the fast exchange of media with other MAGIX programs, online services, and mobile devices. Post your slideshows online to share them with friends and family or transfer your project media to other MAGIX programs to edit in more detail.
You can find all of the great MX features in the program menu under “Share” or by right-clicking the mouse over the media you’ve just created and in other slideshow functions. Each program can also be set up with customized connections by adjusting the settings in the file menu.
Price & Availability:
MAGIX PhotoStory on DVD MX and MAGIX PhotoStory on DVD MX Deluxe are available now for SRP £39.99 inc VAT and £69.99 in VAT respectively from Amazon and PC World. For more information, please see: http://www.magix.com/gb/photostory-on-cd-dvd/
About MAGIX:
MAGIX is a leading international provider of high-quality software, online services and digital contents for multimedia communications. Since 1993, MAGIX has been developing leading technologies for creation, editing, management and presentation of photos and graphics, videos and music. Internationally, MAGIX operates from branches in the USA, Canada, the UK, France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. The product range is targeted towards laymen and professionals alike and goes beyond the PC range to include seamlessly integrated online and mobile applications.
According to its retail sales figures, MAGIX leads in the multimedia software sector in Germany and the most important European markets, and is one of the most successful competitors in the USA. Fifteen years of market presence as well as one thousand awards worldwide testify to the company’s power of innovation. http://www.magix.com

Canon’s patent adds image stabilization to the 24-70mm f/2.8L lens

Canon's patent 2012123156 adds image stabilization to the 24-70mm f/2.8L lens. Canon has filed 24-70mm f/2.8 lens patents in the past, but this is the first time they added IS to the lens design. Canon recently announced the EF 24-70 f/2.8L II lens, so another update is not likely to come out soon.

Sigma SD1 / SD1 Merrill Firmware Update

Sigma has released a firmware update for the Sigma SD1 and Sigma SD1 Merrill digital SLR cameras. According to the company, version 1.07 for the original SD1 and version 1.02 for the SD1 Merrill incorporate the following improvements and fixes:
Improved start-up speed.
Allows a dedicated external flashgun to be used in manual mode whilst the camera is in mirror up mode.
The phenomenon of the LCD display showing minor fuzziness immediately after start-up is corrected.
Various bugs have been corrected to achieve more stable operation.
Website: Sigma SD1 Firmware Update
Website: Sigma SD1 Merrill Firmware Update

HDR Efex Pro 2

Nik Software has just released HDR Efex Pro 2. New features include an improved tone mapping engine, full GPU processing and multi-core optimisation, a new depth control function, chromatic aberration reduction, graduated neutral density control, and more. Available now, HDR Efex Pro 2 installs as a plug-in to Photoshop CS5 & CS6, Aperture 3, Lightroom 3 and later, and sells for for €99.95.
Website: Nik Software Store
Nik Press Release
Nik Software Releases HDR Efex Pro™ 2
New version offers enhanced features, improved interface and performance
Hamburg, July 9, 2012 - Nik Software (http://www.niksoftware.com) today released HDR Efex Pro 2, a powerful new version that enables professional and amateur photographers to create exceptional natural and artistic images. HDR Efex Pro 2 represents the next generation of high dynamic range photography that produces exceptional results. This new version not only adds a wide range of new features, but is also built on a proprietary and even more powerful tone mapping engine, providing unrivaled speed and quality. The company’s patented U Point® technology enables precise, selective fine-tuning, simplifying and speeding up the process for creating extraordinary high dynamic range images. To watch videos and join live online training sessions, visit http://www.niksoftware.com/hdrefexpro.
“With HDR Efex Pro 2 we set out to advance photography by offering a wider range of possibilities for HDR photography while increasing both speed and quality.” said Michael J. Slater, President and CEO of Nik Software. “Over 400 professional photographers from our beta group play an important part in our development process and ensure that we deliver quality and performance that professionals expect.”
“HDR Efex Pro 2 is a giant leap forward in HDR image editing software that makes life easier for professional photographers.” said Rien Van Rijthoven, award-winning architectural photographer. “I can create photographs even with the difficult lighting situations that I encounter on a regular basis all without compromising my vision or the high level of quality my clients demand.”
Key New Features
NEW: Improved Tone Mapping Engine — Develop superior results with better color rendering and improved natural styles
NEW: Depth Control — Enjoy added depth and realism in images and helps with the new and proprietary Depth control, which helps counteract the flattened look commonly associated with HDR images
NEW: Full GPU Processing and Multi-Core Optimization — Gain even faster performance with GPU processing that takes full advantage of the processors found on modern display adapters
UPDATED: Ghost Reduction — Improved ghost reduction algorithm ensures that artifacts created by moving objects are removed with a single click
NEW: Chromatic Aberration Reduction — Reduce color fringes around objects
UPDATED: Interface, Interaction, and Workflow — Benefit from improvements to the merging interface, tone mapping and enhancement controls, visual presets, and more
NEW: Graduated Neutral Density Control — Access the full 32-bit depth of the merged image, providing a natural effect especially on images with a strong horizon line
NEW: Full White Balance Control — Take full advantage of the white balance in an image with a new Tint slider, which along with the Temperature slider, can be applied both globally as well as selectively using U Point technology
NEW: History Browser — Easily review adjustments and different HDR looks via the History Browser which records every enhancement used in an editing session
NEW: Extended Language Support — International users benefit by the addition of Brazilian Portuguese and Chinese (Simplified and Traditional) to a list of languages that includes English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Japanese
Pricing and Availability
HDR Efex Pro 2 is available now in English only directly from Nik Software (http://www.niksoftware.com). HDR Efex Pro 2 will be available soon in other languages. Customers may also purchase through specialty camera and national resellers. A complete list of Nik Software resellers may be found at http://www.niksoftware.com/resellers.
The suggested retail price of HDR Efex Pro 2 is € 99,95. Upgrades from the first version are € 49,95. Customers who purchased HDR Efex Pro or a Complete Collection bundle after June 9, 2012 are eligible for a free upgrade and may find all instructions for accessing their free software at http://www.niksoftware.com/freeupgrade.
HDR Efex Pro 2 is Windows and Mac compatible and installs as a plug-in for Adobe® Photoshop® CS5 or later, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom® 3 or later, and Apple® Aperture® 3 or later. For more information about HDR Efex Pro 2, including video tutorials, live online training, and a free 15-day fully functional trial version, please visit: http://www.niksoftware.com/hdrefexpro.
About Nik Software
Nik Software, Inc. develops award-winning desktop and mobile software solutions and technologies for the professional digital imaging and consumer photography markets. Established in 1995, Nik Software has become the recognized leader in digital photographic products and technologies, including its patented U Point® technology. The company’s products have won over 100 top industry awards for quality and innovation, including iPad App of the Year in the App Store Rewind 2011 for Snapseed. Earlier in 2011, the company earned the prestigious International TIPA award for Best Photo Software for its Complete Collection of professional photography products, which includes Color Efex Pro, HDR Efex Pro, Sharpener Pro, Silver Efex Pro, Viveza, and Dfine. For more information, visit http://www.niksoftware.com.

Nikon D4 Firmware Update 1.02

Nikon has posted a firmware update for the Nikon D4 digital SLR camera. According to the company, version 1.02 incorporates the following modifications and fixes:
Format memory card can now be added to My Menu.
Gamut for Adobe RGB images displayed in the camera’s monitor has now been changed. This enables more vivid display of images.
The stability of network connections when the FTP upload option is selected has been increased.
When recording movies using a lens with an aperture ring in [P] or [S] exposure mode, and Aperture ring selected for Custom Setting f10: Customize command dials>Aperture setting, the minimum aperture was applied.  This issue has been resolved.
When a still image captured during movie recording with 1920 ×1080; 30 fps; crop, 1920 × 1080; 25 fps; crop, or 1920 × 1080; 24 fps; crop selected for Movie settings>Frame size/frame rate and Live frame grab selected for Custom Setting g4: Assign shutter button was displayed in Capture NX 2 or ViewNX 2, the position of the focus point displayed differed from actual recording position. This issue has been resolved.
An issue that caused the camera to freeze when attempting to format a memory card (setup menu > Format memory card) while the camera was connected to a network in HTTP server mode has been resolved.

A New EF 50 f/1.8 IS?

A new 50?
A purported replacement to the EF 50 f/1.4 was mentioned today in the form of an EF 50 f/1.8 IS. The lens would be smaller than the current 50 f/1.4. There is no imminent announcement of such a lens, but Canon is working to replace the 50 f/1.4 sometime in the next year. The current 50 f/1.8 would remain in the lineup.
CR’s Take
There’s no doubt in my mind Canon is working on a couple of new 50mm lenses. With IS added to the new 24 & 28mm primes, IS in a 50 shouldn’t surprise anyone. It would be a welcomed lens if they can make it small enough to work well on a mirrorless platform.
Take this one with a grain of salt….

SmartMask 4.0

AKVIS today announced SmartMask 4.0, its latest selection tool designed to make image area selection simple. With a few mouse clicks SmartMask v.4.0 helps select fluff, hair, fur, tree branches, glass, or a transparent veil as well as remove unwanted colour shades left on the cutout object by the environment. Now the software is accessible in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plugin to photo editors. The new version also adds compatibility with Adobe Photoshop CS6. SmartMask 4.0 is available for purchase with a Home license for 2 computers ($90), Home Deluxe license ($120) and Business license ($160).
AKVIS Press Release
AKVIS announces SmartMask v.4.0, Powerful and Simple Selection Tool
July 6, 2011— AKVIS announced SmartMask v.4.0, its latest and most efficient selection tool designed to make image area selection fun and simple. SmartMask v.4.0 helps transform a time-consuming and often a painful task of selecting a specific area of an image, like selecting yourself in a group photo, into a simple and fun process. With SmartMask v.4.0 creating photo collages and photo montages with numerous objects that don’t have clearly defined edges and fade into a background becomes entertaining and creative activity.
AKVIS SmartMask v.4.0 makes a complicated image area selection incredibly simple. It includes powerful tools for masking objects on images and removing backgrounds as well as for selecting various types of objects, both with soft and sharp edges. With a few mouse clicks SmartMask v.4.0 helps select fluff, hair, fur, tree branches, glass, or a transparent veil as well as remove unwanted color shades left on the cutout object by the environment.
AKVIS SmartMask v.4.0 introduces two modes of image processing that intelligently help you make the selection you want. Auto mode offers a powerful algorithm for automatic recognition of areas while Manual mode includes a set of smart and helpful brushes to touch up the results where needed.
For simple images pencil tools in Auto mode help achieve professionally looking results. With a blue pencil you draw a line inside the object you want to select (for example, yourself on a group photo), and then use the red pencil to create lines outside the object to define the areas that should be cut out (for instance, other people on the same photo). The new Quick Selection tool is a powerful feature which allows our program to select regions with just a few clicks. In cases where the selected object stands against a background of a similar color range, or the object’s edges are uneven, Manual mode offers powerful touch-up brushes like the Magic Brush and Background Eraser.
AKVIS SmartMask v.4.0 helps considerably increase your productivity to leave more time for creativity and the realization of your ideas as a designer. Moreover, SmartMask v.4.0 allows saving a working draft of your project into an AKVIS file that contains an original image, an image at the moment it was saved with all its parameters and settings as well as any manually created checkpoints that were added during your work. This is a very helpful feature that is highly appreciated by image processing professionals.
Now the software is accessible in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plugin to photo editors. The new version adds compatibility with Adobe Photoshop CS6.
Pricing and Availability
SmartMask v.4.0 is available for purchase with Home license for 2 computers (90 USD), Home Deluxe license (120 USD) and Business license (160 USD). SmartMask v.4.0 can be purchased on AKVIS website. Fully functional 10-day trial version is available for download at akvis.com.
About AKVIS
AKVIS is a team of creative IT professionals developing the most comprehensive and user-friendly image processing and photo restoration tools and solutions. For more information visit akvis.com.

Olimpiadi 2012: le fotocamere robotizzate di Reuters

Mancano pochi giorni all’inizio delle Olimpiadi 2012 e pertanto fervono i preparativi da parte dei mass media per poter documentare adeguatamente i gesti degli atleti. L’abbondante anticipo è dovuto anche al meticoloso lavoro di preparazione necessario per il perfetto funzionamento delle fotocamere robotizzate come quelle di Reuters.
Alcuni scatti con prospettive particolari, come quella che trovate in chiusura della galleria, non sono infatti realizzate direttamente dai fotografi ma bensì tramite fotocamere appese alle strutture che circondano e sovrastano i vari campi e palazzetti. Queste fotocamere sono fissate a delle staffe motorizzate controllate da remoto.
Tramite un semplice portatile con collegamento WiFi il fotografo può direzionare la fotocamera, azionare lo zoom, impostare i vari parametri, mettere a fuoco e quindi scattare. Le immagini sono poi subito inviate tramite Internet alle redazioni. Tutto questo ha ovviamente costi elevati: probabilmente l’elemento più economico di tutto il sistema dovrebbe essere la Canon 1D X!

 
 

New Nikon AF-S 800mm f/5.6 VR Lens Coming Soon?

Nikon Rumors picked up word that a new AF-S 800mm f/5.6 VR Lens should arrive in September around the time of Photokina 2012.  The longest current lens in Nikon’s line up is the 600mm f/4G ED VR AF lens.  Given that this lens is priced at $9800, I would expect to see the 800mm lens in the same $14k ballpark as Canon’s 800mm f/5.6L.

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM Delayed Until September

Canon has been on a roll lately in the delay of lenses.  So it should come as no surprise that the highly anticipated Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lens has been delayed until mid-September 2012.
The new 24-70mm f/2.8L lens was announced back in February (and was slated for availability in April 2012) alongside the Canon 24mm and 28mm prime lenses (both of which were slated for a June launch and are now readily available). This delay will put the refreshed 24-70mm lens availability at 7+ months after announcement (assuming Canon doesn’t delay it again).

Nikon 1200-1700mm f/5.6-8P IF-ED Lens: A Look Back at this Massive Lens

Nikon’s Recollections section on its website just added the Zoom-Nikkor 1200-1700mm f/5.6-8P IF-ED beast of lens from 1990.  The lens was constructed of 18 elements in 13 groups and had a minimum focusing distance of 10 meters.  It weighed in at a hefty 35lbs.
The 1200-1700mm lens featured a two-section lens barrel, in which only the rear portion of the lens barrel would rotate when changing from horizontal to vertical views.

2 Section Lens Barrel

Telephoto lenses with a tripod collar commonly feature a structure in which the entire lens barrel is rotated in order to change the composition from vertical to horizontal (this is referred to hereafter as the vertical/horizontal rotating mechanism). However, it would require considerable strength to rotate an entire lens barrel that weighed as much as that of the 1200-1700mm. To enable smooth vertical/horizontal rotating, the lens barrel of the 1200-1700mm is divided into front and rear sections, and only the rear section is rotated.
With the 1200-1700mm, whose front section of lens barrel is fixed, rotating the position of the camera between vertical and horizontal rotates the focus ring. Focus does not change, however, since care is taken in the design of the vertical/horizontal rotating mechanism to ensure that movement in the mechanism does not affect the rotation of the focus ring.

The reach of this lens is flat out amazing. See the sample photos below.

50mm (for comparison)

Zoom-Nikkor 1200-1700mm f/5.6-8P IF-ED at 1700mm

The “was first used in 1990 at the Koshien Stadium, the baseball ground at which the spring high school baseball tournament is staged.”  After that, Nikon delivered these lenses to news organizations in Japan and the rest of the world.  Beginning in 1994, Nikon made the massive lens available on the general market on a build to order basis.
I haven’t found any official retail prices on it; however, I’ve seen quotes ranging from $60,000 to $75,000 based on dollar values in the early 1990s.
[via Nikon]

Switronix Bringing Power Accessories to the Blackmagic Cinema Camera?

HDSLR and cinema accessory provider Switronix sent out a little tease in its newsletter today about the Blackmagic Cinema Camera that’s shipping later this month.

Are you guys as excited as we are about this beautiful, little guy?
Check in this month to see the cool accessories we have developed for the Black Magic Camera.  -Switronix Newsletter

Switronix has been known for its HDSLR power accessories that so effectively pair cameras like the 5D Mark II with external battery packs, as well as on-camera lighting gear.  Given the uncertainty thus far about the Blackmagic Cinema Camera’s internal battery and lack of external power options, I’d say that an external power solution from Switronix is a good bet.
Stay tuned for the official announcement of whatever is coming from Switronix…

Nikon D4 Firmware Update Ver. 1.02

A new firmware update is available for the Nikon D4.  Firmware version 1.02 provides the following fixes and updates:

• An issue that caused the camera to freeze when attempting to format a memory card (setup menu>Format memory card) while the camera was connected to a network in HTTP server mode has been resolved.
• Format memory card can now be added to My Menu.
• Gamut for Adobe RGB images displayed in the camera’s monitor has been changed. This enables more vivid display of images.
• The stability of network connections when the FTP upload option is selected has been increased.
• When recording movies using a lens with an aperture ring in [P] or [S] exposure mode, and Aperture ring selected for Custom Setting f10: Customize command dials>Aperture setting, the minimum aperture was applied. This issue has been resolved.
• When a still image captured during movie recording with 1920 ×1080; 30 fps; crop, 1920 × 1080; 25 fps; crop, or 1920 × 1080; 24 fps; crop selected for Movie settings>Frame size/frame rate and Live frame grab selected for Custom Setting g4: Assign shutter button was displayed in Capture NX 2 or ViewNX 2, the position of the focus point displayed differed from actual recording position. This issue has been resolved.

Download the firmware update from Nikon’s website.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ48 Camera Winner

Pamela Turnbull is the lucky winner of a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ48 camera, courtesy of Idealo.co.uk.
For full details on the camera, read our in-depth review in which the FZ48 gained a Recommended award. The DMC-FZ48 features 12 megapixels, 3 inch LCD screen, 24x optical zoom, full HD video recording and a whole host of other functions.
If you’re not lucky enough to win the Lumix, you can still check the price on the DMC-FZ48, as well as wide selection of other digital cameras, on Idealo’s bridge camera page. Idealo.co.uk allows you to compare prices on over 300,000 products from 14,000 online shops; with its smartphone app for both for iOS and Android, this can now also be done on the go.
Terms and conditions
1. This competition closes on 02/07/2012.
2. By entering this competition you will also be opting in to Photography Blog’s monthly e-newsletter (you have the option to unsubscribe at any time).
3. Only one entry per person only.
4. No entries accepted from employees of Photography Blog or Idealo.
5. The winner will be announced on Photography Blog following the closing date and contacted via email only, so a valid email address is required.
6. The featured prize is a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ48 camera.

Samsung EX2F

The Samsung EX2F is a high end compact camera with with a bright F/1.4 lens, the brightest in any compact. The EX2F also features a 1/1.7” 12 Megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, 3.0” Swivel AMOLED display, 1080/30p Full HD movies, Wi-Fi functionality, and full manual control.
Samsung UK Press Release
SAMSUNG ANNOUNCES EX2F SMART CAMERA
Samsung combines high end photography and easy sharing with the introduction of the EX2F
London, UK – 3rd July, 2012 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd today announced the launch of the EX2F, the latest model in its growing range of Wi-Fi-enabled SMART cameras. Following the success of the EX1 with F1.8 lens, the new model is engineered to deliver even brighter photography thanks to its F1.4 lens, the brightest in any compact camera.
The EX2F comes with the advantage of being able to store and share images remotely using the Wi-Fi functionality. The Full Manual Control is ideal for DSLR-owners looking for more portable equipment to capture images spontaneously on the go and for photographers looking for a step-up from their point-and-shoot.
The camera combines a number of features which deliver incredible picture quality in all conditions. With the advanced F1.4 24mm Lens, the camera delivers clear images and video even in very low light conditions. These are easily controlled using the professional front wheel key and Dual Dials, which enable switching between parameters and modes quickly for greater manual control. The low-light capabilities of the EX2F are also added to by the 1/1.7” 12 Megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, which delivers clear, blur-free images.
Providing quality and creativity, 1080/30p Full HD Movie Recording with stereo sound allows users to capture video in high enough quality to enjoy on a Full HD TV. The EX2F also allows still 12 Megapixel photos and video to be captured simultaneously using the Dual Capture feature, so that any scene can be shot as both photo and video. 
The world’s brightest compact camera lens
The EX2F’s F1.4 24mm wide-angle lens is approximately four times as bright as a F2.8 camera lens. A further development is that the lens unit now consists of eleven elements in nine groups, with four aspherical lenses and two high refractive lenses. Combined, these provide a 20% increase in the amount of light on the sensor, a 20% increase in image quality and a 10% increase in zoom ratio. 
The lens on the EX2F also incorporates a Neutral Density (ND) filter, giving the user greater control over exposure time in different conditions and making photos appear more neutral in situations of over-exposure.  It also allows for shooting at a very shallow depth of field, so users can isolate their subjects from backgrounds to create stunning portraits. To make bright images clearer, the EX2F also includes Dual IS (OIS and DIS) to minimize the effect of shaking – particularly useful in low-light situations.
Complete control
Housed in a sleek yet durable body, more commonly found on DSLR models, the EX2F combines high-end image quality with convenience and speed. For those accustomed to the level of creative control on DSLRs, the EX2F allows for shooting in RAW mode for professional standard pictures.
The EX2F also encompasses Full Manual Control as well as Aperture and Shutter Priority modes. The Dual Dial and front wheel keys also allow users to quickly and easily adjust exposure for effortless pro-style control. This is all combined into a body that is compact and light, making it possible to carry the camera anywhere for spontaneous shots without having to carry a weighty DSLR.
Bright and intuitive display
The 3.0” Swivel AMOLED display is perfect for lining up great shots and viewing them under any light conditions – and does so whilst consuming little battery power. The screen responds swiftly and displays images in high contrast, while the swivel display allows picture-taking from low and high angles – even self-portraits. The screen also incorporates Samsung’s Smart Panel user interface, which integrates all parameters into one display for easy control over the end result. 
Shooting and sharing from anywhere
The EX2F is the latest in Samsung’s SMART CAMERA range of Wi-Fi-enabled cameras, which provide a combination of high-quality imaging paired with connectivity. Wi-Fi enables the secure storage of images through Auto Backup to a PC or saving to the Cloud. In addition, sharing to social networking sites such as Facebook or Picasa is easy.
The EX2F’s Mobile Link opens doors for connectivity with smartphones, without even having to resize images or video. Users can also access the Remote Viewfinder to use their smartphone’s screen to frame shots from a variety of angles. Through the SMART LINK button, all these functions can be accessed with one touch for simplified sharing and storage.
Nick White, Head of Digital Imaging, Samsung Electronics UK and Ireland, said “The EX2 is the perfect camera for both those that are used to a DSLR and the photographers that are looking for better image quality and control than a standard point and shoot. The added benefits of WiFi and a sleek design make this camera one of our most innovative yet.”
Samsung EX2F Product Specifications
Image Sensor 12.4 effective megapixel 1/1.7” BSI CMOS
Lens F1.4 24mm 3.3x Lens
IS Dual IS (OIS + DIS)
Display 3.0” Swivel VGA AMOLED display
ISO Auto, 80~3200, (6400 ~ 12800 extended mode)
Image 12M, 10MP, 9MW, 8M, 8M(1:1), 5M, 3M, 2MW, 1M
Video Full HD 1080/30p (H.264)
* 3.3x optical zoom while recording video
Video Output AV, HDMI 1.4
Value-added Feature Live / Action / 3D Panorama, Smart Auto, Picture in Picture (Image / Movie), Split Shot, Artistic Brush,
Magic Frame, ND Filter On/Off, Dual Capturing, Continuous Shot(10M), High speed recording
Wi-Fi Connectivity Mobile Link, Remote Viewfinder, Social Sharing, Email, Sky Drive, Auto Backup, TV Link,
Wi-Fi Direct
Bundle PC software iLauncher, PC Auto Backup, Samsung Raw Converter
Storage SDSC, SDHC, SDXC
Battery SLB-10A
Dimension (WxHxD) 111.9 X 62.0 X 28.9 mm
Weight 294.3g (without battery)
Accessory OVF1 (Optical View Finder), EM10 (External Microphone), SEF42A (GN.24 Flash)
* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2011 consolidated sales of US$143.1 billion. Employing approximately 206,000 people in 197 offices across 72 countries, the company operates two separate organizations to coordinate its nine independent business units: Digital Media & Communications, comprising Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, and Digital Imaging; and Device Solutions, consisting of Memory, System LSI and LED. Recognized for its industry-leading performance across a range of economic, environmental and social criteria, Samsung Electronics was named the world’s most sustainable technology company in the 2011 Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information, please visit http://www.samsung.com.

Samsung Series 9 SB970 Monitor

The new Samsung Series 9 SB970, Samsung’s first premium monitor designed with photographers and other imaging professionals in mind, has just been launched to the US market. The 27-inch-wide monitors have been individually colour calibrated and come equipped with an advanced PLS panel with a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees and a resolution of 2560x1440 pixels. In the United States, the Samsung Series 9 SB970 monitor can be purchased from TigerDirect, Microcenter and Best Buy.