MELVILLE, N.Y. (Nov. 30, 2008) – Nikon Inc. today announced the D3X, an FX-format digital SLR featuring extreme 24.5-megapixel resolution and superb low-noise capabilities, which provides professional photographers with commercial-quality image performance in a familiar and extraordinarily versatile D-SLR form factor. In conjunction with the groundbreaking Nikon FX-format D3, the D3X tops off a collection of flagship level, rugged, professional caliber digital single lens reflex cameras engineered to excel in all types of professional photographic disciplines from photojournalism and sideline sports, to commercial in-studio applications.

The foundation of the enhanced performance of the D3X is its FX-format, 24.5-megapixel (6048 x 4032) CMOS sensor providing commercial, high fashion, fine art and landscape photographers with the extreme resolution, dynamic range, color depth, detail and sharpness that clients demand. Whether creating catalogs, magazine covers, billboards or gallery prints, the large 5.49-micron pixel size and high signal to noise ratio produces vibrant images with breathtaking image fidelity while reducing lost highlights and shadows, and ensuring smoother tone reproduction with minimized noise. With full resolution shooting speeds of up to five frames-per-second (fps), and 14-bit files, that when processed are approximately 138 MB, the D3X offers today’s photographic artists an extreme level of performance and versatility ready for demanding assignments in the studio or on location.

“In 2007, the 12.1-megapixel FX-format D3 delivered groundbreaking digital SLR image quality, coupled with incomparable high ISO, low noise performance and high-speed handling. In doing so, the D3 broke photographic barriers, enabling photographers to work in ways never before possible,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Now, the new 24.5-megapixel FX-format D3X D-SLR provides the extreme resolution and high dynamic range capabilities needed to meet the extraordinary needs of photographic disciplines such as high fashion, commercial advertising and fine art. The D3X delivers this remarkable capability while fitting seamlessly within the Nikon system, taking full advantage of Nikon's world-renowned collection of NIKKOR lenses and Speedlights.”

Image Quality Takes Center Stage
To re-emphasize the importance of image quality above all else, the D3X delivers an incredible level of digital SLR performance to provide photographers with extremely high resolution, exceptional dynamic range, phenomenal total gradation and outstanding color reproduction. Image files can be recorded as TIFF, JPEG or NEF (RAW) formats in either 12- or 14-bit compressed or uncompressed formats, and recorded to UDMA compatible CompactFlash™ cards for optimum speed. Photographers can save image files directly to the dual card slots as overflow, backup, or as separate file formats to different cards. Building on the D3X’s flexibility, users have the creative option to shoot in the 5:4 crop mode with 20.4-megapixel resolution, the ideal format for creating 8 x 10-inch portraits. While using DX-format lenses, faster continuous shooting of up to seven frames per second can be achieved at a resolution of 10.5 megapixels.

The exceptionally low noise of the D3X is essential to any professional commercial application, and it provides photographers with an ISO range of 100 to 1600, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 6400 (Hi-2). The ultra smooth tones and lack of grain at ISO 1600 as well as at low sensitivity settings result in smooth, natural skin tones and exacting detail that, before the D3X, required larger and far costlier studio-bound camera systems.

Advanced Technologies, Meticulously Executed
In a commercial setting or on location, imaging professionals need high performance in both speed and processing. The Nikon D3X can shoot at up to five fps at full resolution or up to seven fps in DX crop mode, allowing photographers to catch the split-second difference in a model's expression or capture all of the action in a sequence. Just like the D3, the D3X achieves a start-up time of a mere 0.12 seconds and a shutter release time lag of 0.04 seconds.

The D3X's speed, as well as high levels of performance, leverages Nikon core technologies including a newly enhanced EXPEED™ Image Processing System, specially designed for the D3X to provide superior image quality, faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This advanced system is able to achieve extremely precise color reproduction for a broad spectrum of hues, in addition to vivid saturation and smooth gradation. What's more, Nikon's advanced noise processing function is engineered to minimize noise at all sensitivities and operate seamlessly without interfering with other image color parameters.

The D3X also features Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System, which continuously analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor, to further refine auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. This results in flattering portraits and awe-inspiring landscapes that portray accurate color and fine details. Nikon’s exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II helps ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Instantly evaluating each scene before capture, input data from the system’s sensor is automatically referenced against an internal database of more than 30,000 images derived from actual photographs to calculate correct exposure values. Active D-Lighting, used in combination with 3D Matrix Metering II, helps to determines proper exposure, and creates realistic contrast while compensating for lost shadows and highlights. Prior to shooting, users can choose from Extra High, High, Normal, Low or Off settings, as well as an Auto mode.

Additionally, the D3X features Nikon's exclusive Multi-CAM 3500FX focus module, with 51 AF points, 15 cross type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors that easily track and lock onto moving subjects, delivering the same fast and accurate AF performance that helped make the D3 immediately successful. Users can select any of the AF points, making it easy to consistently attain accurate focus right on a subject's eyes, frame after frame. Additionally, three AF-area modes – Single point, Dynamic-area AF and Auto-area AF – are available to maximize the use of the 51 focus points by selecting the most suitable one to match subject conditions. AF is also available in one of two Live View modes optimized for the studio, including a phase detection handheld mode and a tripod mode. This feature allows the user to zoom in up to 27x on the LCD screen to ensure critical focus. While in Live View, the graphic indication of a virtual horizon is also available, making it easier than ever to confirm camera orientation.

To further ensure each photographer’s ability to balance their personal style, Nikon's Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. Photographers have creative control over these image parameters with the use of up to nine available customizable presets.

Synchronizing Both Form and Function
Engineered for real-world functionality, the D3X retains a rugged shell with moisture, dust and shock resistance that has become a hallmark of flagship Nikon D-SLRs, while preserving the usability and ergonomics that allow the camera to remain an extension of the photographer's vision. Attention to detail goes so far as to include a self-diagnostic shutter system that is tested to exceed 300,000 cycles for maximum durability and longevity. The camera's body also maintains the resilient magnesium alloy construction and form factor of the D3, promoting consistent Nikon system synergy.

A bright and accurate viewfinder offers 100 percent coverage with 0.7x magnification. The body also houses Nikon's acclaimed 3.0-inch super density LCD screen, now relied upon by so many photographers. The high-resolution 920,000-dot screen is viewable at wide angles up to 170 degrees, and will allow photographers to quickly zoom in to confirm critical focus. Users can also output the video signal to an external display via HDMI to allow client viewing. Thanks to incredibly efficient internal circuitry, the D3X can capture up to 4400* shots per single charge of the camera's Lithium ion battery.

System Strength Withstands the Test of Time
The D3X is fully compatible with Nikon's Creative Lighting System (CLS) to give photographers a mobile lighting solution that is easy to manage. To further enhance mobility, the D3X is compatible with Nikon's GP-1 GPS receiver to gather information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and date of shooting. Photographers can easily shoot tethered via USB, or use the WT-4a wireless transmitter to send images wirelessly when speed and mobility are essential. D3X users will also enjoy the system strength of more than 50 genuine NIKKOR lenses that provide outstanding sharpness and high resolution across a broad range of focal lengths.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D3X will be available at Nikon Authorized Professional Dealers starting December 2008, and will be available for an estimated selling price of $7999.95.**

* Based on CIPA Standards
** Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Sony Alpha underwater housing review

Posted on December 15, 2008 - Filed Under Digital | Leave a Comment

Sony DSLR-A350 housing test : The Sony Alpha 350, put in the market by Sony, is a digital reflex camera for the advanced photographer. Professionals will probably find the speed of 2.5 frames per second too slow. However, underwater photography does not require extreme speed since you nearly always make use of flashes and you also have to wait for the flash batteries to recharge before the next shot is enabled. Sony uses Carl Zeiss lenses for the Sony Alpha 350. The Sony Alpha SLR camera is light with its 582 grams, as well as compact and has a pleasant hand-fit. The CCD sensor offers 14.2 effective megapixels. Pictures can be stored in RAW, JPEG as well as RAW + JPEG.

Sony Alpha Digital SLR
The Sony Alpha A350 camera supports various storage memory cards. Not only the Sony types (Memory Stick Duo, MS Pro Duo and MS Pro HG) are supported, also CF cards type I and II. To tackle the dust problem of dust sticking to the sensor, the Alpha 350 has been equipped with a dual anti-dust system. The sensor has an anti-static coating and a shake mechanism. This mechanism is activated automatically after changing the lens, giving dust no chance to stick to the sensor. The tilting LCD of 2.7 inch can be folded out to 90 degrees upwards and tilted downwards at 45 degrees. It facilitates using the Live View. The Live View function of the Sony DSLR-A350 not only works at manual focus, also at auto focus.

Dive Expedition Spitsbergen
The scuba dive expedition to Spitsbergen that I am joining is organized by Waterproof Expeditions. This company organizes expeditions to the Arctic as well as the Antarctic area. You will stay on a ship during the expedition. Don’t picture a luxurious cruise ship, since our polar vessel should be able to withstand cold and, most of all, ice floes. The vessel however, does offer warm and comfortable cabins, a dining room and rooms for speeches. The group is always international.

BS Kinetics Gibson housing for Sony Alpha 350 SLR camera
Underwater I concentrate in taking photos with an overview. The ice floes and underwater landscapes are that fascinating and colourful, I find it a pity to take macro shots. It’s the 11-18 mm wide angle lens of Sony that I use. The dome port of the BS Kinetics closes by means of a bayonet mount on the underwater housing. Turning it a quarter to the right suffices to attach the port to the housing. The dome port is extremely compact. This is pleasant while travelling as well as underwater. The bigger the dome port, the more resistance while swimming. Read the full Sony Alpha housing review and explore beautiful Spitsbergen.

Light Amongst the Darkness

Posted on December 14, 2008 - Filed Under Photo | Leave a Comment

“Tondo dump site- Manila“. The Philippines. Taken by Le Tuan Anh

Source: planetearthdailyphoto.blogspot.com

Olympus rebrands Stylus SW to Stylus TOUGH

Posted on December 12, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment

Olympus is rebranding its Stylus SW series of digital compacts as the Stylus TOUGH series to better promote its range of rugged cameras in a more defined category. Now to be known as Stylus TOUGH in the United States and µ TOUGH in the European Union, this new name will be introduced in early January 2009.

Press Release:

Olympus Rebrands Stylus SW Cameras To Stylus Tough Series

Company that Defined and Expanded “Tough” Camera Segment Renames Series Accordingly

Center Valley, Pa., December 2008 – Olympus, the company that introduced shockproof/waterproof digital compact cameras (Stylus 720 SW) in 2006 to mass consumers with active lifestyles, is now redefining the segment it continues to dominate. Starting with its Spring 2009 line-up in January, Olympus’ incredibly rugged cameras built to capture amazing images in aquatic adventures, harsh climates and everyday activities with kids will be rebranded “Stylus Tough.”

“Consumers’ passion and excitement for our tough cameras has continued to grow throughout the last three years, and they love the freedom of being able to capture beautiful images where other cameras wouldn’t dare to venture,” said Mark Huggins, executive director, Brand Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Once our innovations moved beyond purely shockproof and waterproof – some Olympus cameras offer freezeproof and crushproof – the SW name became limiting. The Stylus Tough brand will be more descriptive and visual, and will provide us with greater flexibility as we grow this and other camera lines.”

The current line-up of Stylus SW cameras offers different levels of durability, providing consumers with options that best meet their needs. Cameras that are shockproof and waterproof are perfect for those who want worryproof, kidproof or lifeproof shooting. Building on these original tough features, other cameras also offer freezeproof and crushproof capabilities for those who seek adventure from the highest slopes to the most tropical depths and want to take their cameras anywhere to capture brilliant images.

The new Stylus Tough brand will enable the company to expand the line-up beyond these current tough benefits, and will be even easier for consumers to quickly understand the cameras’ unique benefits. If it is not waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof, then by Olympus standards, it is not “Tough.” It also allows the company to offer one or more of these unique features in other Olympus camera lines. According to a recent study, many consumers looking for a new digital camera chose durable, weatherproofing as a feature they desire.

The new Stylus TOUGH cameras will be available in January 2009.