Nikon launches AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens
Posted on September 15, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Nikon today has launched the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm F/3.5-5.6G ED VR zoom lens. This lens incorporates features such as Nikon’s Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass, Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) and Enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR II) and will be supplied as the kit lens with the Nikon D90.
Press Release:
NIKON LAUNCHES AF-S DX NIKKOR
18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR
27th August 2008: Nikon UK is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR. The new NIKKOR lens, with a focal length between 18 and 105 mm, is a high performance and cost efficient lens with a focal length equivalent to 27 to 157.5 mm in 35 mm format that has been designed to partner with Nikon’s D90.
High Performance – High Reproduction
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is useful in a broad range of shooting settings. The wide zoom range makes it suitable for shooting buildings and scenery while the telephoto zoom range is ideal for portraits. The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR ’s built-in Vibration Reduction II system provides the equivalent of a shutter speed three stops faster than standard lenses, offering an extraordinarily high reproduction capacity. The high-performance optical system features a single ED glass element and one aspherical lens optimized for use for digital SLRs. This allows you to make high resolution, high contrast images, and minimising chromatic aberration. The ultra-compact built-in Silent Wave Motor ensures silent, fast and efficient autofocus operation, and the refined external design with leather-tone texture will appeal to Nikon users as it will match their camera bodies.
Extreme Focal Length
DX camera owners can have it all. Combined with the AF-S VR Zoom NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED; the two VR lenses cover a focal length of 18-450mm, ensuring you can capture virtually anything, from a close up object to a distant horizon.
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is supplied with the Nikon D90 in a special kit
AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Major Features
- DX-format, high-power 5.8x zoom lens with focal length ranging from 18 to 105mm
- Broad picture angle range approximates the perspective of a 27-157.5mm lens on a 35mm-format film camera or Nikon FX-format digital SLR
- Covers diverse shooting situations from wide-angle landscapes and interiors to portraiture and medium-range sports
- Vibration Reduction assures sharper handheld pictures while shooting at shutter speeds up to three stops slower than would otherwise be possible
- Built-in Silent Wave Motor delivers quiet, swift autofocus with superior accuracy
- High-performance optical system featuring an ED glass element and an aspherical lens element realizes superior image reproduction capability
- The rounded 7-blade diaphragm opening renders out-of-focus elements more naturally
- Leather texture matches Nikon digital SLR’s body high-quality exterior design
AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105MM F/3.5-5.6G ED VR specifications
| Focal length |
18-105 mm |
|---|---|
| Max/min aperture | f/3.5-5.6 |
| Lens construction | 15 elements in 11 groups (with one ED glass and one hybrid a-spherical lens) |
| Picture angle | 76° , 15°20’ (DX-format) |
| Minimum focus distance | 0.45 m |
| Max. reproduction ratio | 0.2x (1/5) |
| No. diaphragm blades | 7 (rounded) |
| Focusing | Autofocus with built-in SWM and manual focus |
| Filter/attachment size | 67mm |
| Diameter x length | Approx. φ76-89 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 450 g |
Olympus unveils FE-20
Posted on September 7, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Pre-Photokina 2008: Last but by no means least comes another entry-level digital compact camera, the Olympus FE-20, which joins the two FE- series cameras (the FE-360 and FE-370) announced last week. The 8MP FE-20 sports a 2.5” LCD and 3x zoom lens (36-108mm equiv) and includes features features digital (high ISO ) ‘Image stabilization’ and Face Detection.
Press Material:
Latest Olympus FE series models: Compact size, powerful optics
London, 25 August 2008 –The latest Olympus FE series cameras continue to impress for their user-friendliness, attractive pricing, and great image results. Like all Olympus cameras, they pack superior optical performance into compact dimensions. Boasting up to 5x optical zoom, these FE cameras allow users to get up close and personal with their subjects.
The high-grade optics matched with 8 Megapixels ensure premium image quality and precise picture details. In addition to internal memory, photos can be stored to xD-Picture Card or – thanks to a bundled attachment – on microSD Card. Find the newest Olympus FE cameras at a store near you this September for an approximate value of £119.99 for the FE-20, £129.99 for the FE-360, and £179.99 for the FE-370. Each model is also available in a choice of colours
The Olympus FE-20 unites strength and simplicity. The power of its 3x optical zoom and 8 Megapixels is always at your fingertips with this sleek and compact camera measuring just 21.5mm in depth. But don’t let its looks and features fool you – the FE-20 is fun and easy to use. Face Detection Technology makes it simple to capture your friends and family with optimal focus and exposure settings. And with Digital Image Stabilisation, ISO values of up to 1000 help prevent blur, so you can always be sure that your pictures will come out crisp and clear.
This stylish, powerful camera comes in silver or black, and its large 6.4cm/2.5” LCD makes framing and reviewing your shots a cinch. All of the latest FE series cameras follow a “one button, one function” design principle. Also on board are a help function and a multilingual menu for easy navigation and operation. The included Olympus Master Software also makes for easy photo handling on the computer. Internal memory is just one option for storing photos. Results can also be saved to xD-Picture Card or – thanks to the bundled attachment – on microSD Card too.
The newest additions to Olympus’ FE series – the FE-370, FE-360 and FE-20 – will hit the shelves in September 2008.
Main features: FE-20
- Miniature 3x optical zoom (36-108mm*) in slim body to capture everything from great scenes to stunning portraits
- Digital Image Stabilisation (up to ISO 1000) for less blur
- See and share images more easily on the 6.4cm/2.5" LCD
(154,000 dots) - Perfectly focused and exposed faces even in tricky situations thanks to Face Detection Technology
- 16 scene modes (e.g. Night Scene with Portrait and Candle) ensure the camera has the right settings for different situations
- Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound
(up to VGA resolution at 30fps)
* Equivalent to a 35mm camera
microSD is a trademark of SD Card Association.
• 8.5 million total pixels
• 8 million effective pixels
• Primary colour filter (RGB)
• 5M 2560 x 1920
• 3M 2048 x 1536
• 2M 1600 x 1200
• 1M 1280 x 960
• VGA 640 x 480
• 16:9 1920 x 1080
• 320 x 240 / 15 fps Recording time: 29 min
• AVI Motion JPEG
• WAV audio
• 4 Aspherical glass elements
• Focal length 6.3 – 18.9mm
• Focal length (equiv. 35mm) 36 – 108mm
• 6 lenses/5 groups
• Aperture 3.1 – 5.9
• 4 Aspherical glass elements
• Focal length 6.3 – 18.9mm
• Focal length (equiv. 35mm) 36 – 108mm
• 6 lenses/5 groups
• Aperture 3.1 – 5.9
• 4 Aspherical glass elements
• Focal length6.3 – 31.5mm
• Focal length (equiv. 35mm) 36 – 180mm
• 8 lenses/6 groups
• Aperture 3.5 – 5.6
• TTL iESP auto focus with contrast detection
• Face Detection AF
• Spot
• Standard
• Macro
• Super-Macro
• Macro mode 0.1m – (wide) / 0.6m (tele)
• Super Macro mode Closest focusing distance: 5 cm
• Standard mode 0.6m (wide) / 1.0m (tele)
• Macro mode 0.1m – (wide) / 0.6m (tele)
• Super Macro mode Closest focusing distance: 5 cm
• Macro mode 0.1m – (wide) / 0.6m (tele)
• Super Macro mode Closest focusing distance: 3 cm
• ESP light metering
• Manual ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1000
• Manual ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1000
• Manual ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200*
* In reduced pixel mode
• 1/3 EV steps
• Auto
• Programme Automatic
• Image Stabalisation
• Portrait
• Landscape
• Night Scene with portrait
• Sports
• Indoor
• Candle
• Self-portrait
• Sunset
• Fireworks
• Cuisine
• Behind Glass
• Documents
• Auction
• Programme Automatic
• Image Stabalisation
• Portrait
• Landscape
• Night Scene with portrait
• Sports
• Indoor
• Candle
• Self-portrait
• Sunset
• Fireworks
• Cuisine
• Behind Glass
• Documents
• Auction
• Underwater Wide 1
• Underwater Wide 1
• Underwater Macro
• Landscape
• Landscape with Portrait
• Night Scene
• Night Scene with portrait
• Sports
• Indoor
• Candle
• Self-portrait
• Available Light Portrait
• Sunset
• Fireworks
• Museum
• Cuisine
• Behind Glass
• Documents
• Auction
• Shoot & Select 1
• Shoot & Select 2
• Beach and Snow
• Pre-Capturing Movie
• Underwater Snapshot
• Snow
• Smile Shot
• Intelligent Auto Mode
• Sunlight
• Tungsten
• Overcast
• Flourescent 1
• Flourescent 2
• Flourescent 3
• Red-eye reduction
• Fill-in
• Off
• 154,000 dots
• 154,000 dots
• 230,000
• Combined A/V & USB output
• USB 2.0 compatible
• EXIF 2.2
• PIM III
• PictBridge
• DPOF
• D-7 AC AC Adapter (optional)
Olympus launches SP-565 UZ
Posted on August 29, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Pre-Photokina 2008: Olympus has also announced a second 20x (26-520mm equiv) zoom-lensed ‘ultrazoom’ camera that appears to be a slightly down-sized version of the SP-570 launched in January. The 10MP SP-565 has a 2.5 ” LCD (the SP-570 has a 2.7"), reduced movie frame rate and ships with a MicroSD adaptor, but otherwise looks very similar.
Press Release:
The Olympus SP-565 UZ: A massive 20x wide optical zoom for ultimate control
Minimum size for maximum brilliance
London, 25 August 2008 – Raise your photographic potential with the world leader in the ultrazoom category. Featuring a 20x wide zoom lens (26-520mm*), the affordable Olympus SP-565 UZ lets you shoot like a pro without having to carry around tons of equipment. Zoom in ultra-close to any subject, or back out for an ultra-wide shot – all with a single lens. The integration of Dual Image Stabilisation also ensures protection against camera shake. Photos are stored to internal memory, xD-Picture Card or – thanks to a bundled attachment – microSD Card. The Olympus SP-565 UZ with a 20x wide optical zoom will be available in late September 2008 for an RRP of £349.99
So far, yet so close
See the world like you thought you never could. An incredible 20x wide zoom (26-520mm*) brings you right into the heart of the action. Capture the excitement of a football match from the sidelines, yet feel the immediacy in your results as if you had been right there on the field. Using the 5x digital zoom and optional TCON-17 Teleconverter (with CLA-10 Conversion Lens Adapter) even more is possible. How much more? Up to a massive focal length equivalent of 4420mm! And with the integration of Dual Image Stabilisation – combining both a mechanical and digital image stabiliser – results come out reliably sharp. The 10 Megapixel SP-565 UZ also presents users with flexibility for wide-angle shooting. This is not only perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes and group photos, but also for getting a wider perspective when photographing interiors or other architecture.
Capture more
Sequential shooting at up to 13.5fps** lets every facet of a scene be faithfully recorded as it happens. And with the ingenious Pre-Capture mode, recording of pictures can start even before the shutter is fully pressed. In addition, Pre-Capture Movie mode is also on board – providing the same advantage over the clock, but in movie format. For ultra-close-ups from as little as just 1cm, the Super Macro Mode also gives photographers the chance to explore a subject’s every detail.
Creative control and exceptional results
On top of 23 scene modes covering the most common shooting situations, the SP-565 UZ also offers manual control. P/A/S/M options give users free rein to pursue their creative inspiration. And no matter which mode is chosen, the TruePic III image processer ensures best results. Advanced Face Detection Technology guarantees that human subjects come out optimally focused and exposed. Up to 16 faces can be detected in a single scene. Shadow Adjustment Technology, meanwhile, recognises dark areas in compositions and adjusts accordingly to return the most realistic image possible.Low light photography capabilities are enhanced through high ISO settings and BrightCapture Technology. The latter also returns bright views on the 6.4cm/2.5” HyperCrystal LCD. On top of a built-in flash, extra illumination – and extraordinary flexibility – can be obtained thanks to compatibility with the Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R wireless flash units.
Perfect for all users
In addition to the internal memory, compatibility with both xD-Picture Cards and microSD Card (due to bundled attachment) gives users a range of storage options. Wearers of spectacles will appreciate the viewfinder’s dioptric correction facility. And with 39 available languages, photographers are almost always able to operate this camera in their native tongue.
Packed with features that support a creative photographic experience, the Olympus SP-565 UZ delivers ultrazoom performance in a compact and affordable package. It will become available late September 2008.
The Olympus SP-565 UZ – main features:
- Extreme optical performance in minimum size: 20x wide optical zoom (26-520mm*) – from extreme close-ups to the action as well as stunning scenes (additional 5x digital zoom also included)
- Avoids blur thanks to Dual Image Stabilisation
- Don’t miss the moment with high-speed 13.5fps sequence shooting**
- Advanced Face Detection of up to 16 persons for perfectly focused and exposed faces plus correct exposure of other image areas
- P/A/S/M exposure modes for creative freedom
- 25 scene modes for the best results in different situations
- 10 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
- See and share images on the 2.5"/6.4cm HyperCrystal LCD
- Built-in flash and wireless flash control from the camera body
- Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30fps)
- In-camera panorama function
- (with xD-Picture Card)
- Includes Perfect Fix and Perfect Shot Preview
- xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible
* Equivalent to a 35mm camera
**In 3.0 Megapixel mode
microSD is a trademark of SD Card Association
• 10.7 million total pixels
• 10 million effective pixels
• Primary colour filter (RGB)
• 5M 2560 x 1920
• 3M 2048 x 1536
• 2M 1600 x 1200
• 1M 1280 x 960
• VGA 640 x 480
• 16:9 1920 x 1080
• 320 x 240 / 15 fps Recording time: 29 min
• AVI Motion JPEG
• WAV audio
• 4 Aspherical glass elements
• Focal length 4.6 – 92.0mm
• Focal length (equiv. 35mm) 26 – 520mm
• 14 lenses/11 groups
• Aperture 2.8 – 4.5
• TTL iESP auto focus with contrast detection
• Face Detection AF
• Spot
• Standard
• Macro
• Super-Macro
• Predective
• Single AF
• Macro mode 0.1m – (wide) / 0.2m (tele)
• Super Macro mode Closest focusing distance: 1 cm
• ESP light metering
• Spot
• Centre weighted metering
• Manual ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200*, 6400*
* In reduced pixel mode
• 1/3 EV steps
• Landscape
• Landscape with Portrait
• Night Scene
• Night Scene with portrait
• Sports
• Indoor
• Candle
• Self-portrait
• Available Light Portrait
• Sunset
• Fireworks
• Museum
• Cuisine
• Behind Glass
• Documents
• Auction
• Shoot & Select 1
• Shoot & Select 2
• Beach and Snow
• Pre-Capturing Movie
• Underwater Snapshot
• Snow
• Smile Shot
• Sunlight
• Tungsten
• Overcast
• Flourescent 1
• Flourescent 2
• Flourescent 3
• Red-eye reduction
• Fill-in
• Off
• 230,000 dots
• Combined A/V & USB output
• USB 2.0 compatible
• EXIF 2.2
• PIM III
• PictBridge
• DPOF
• D-7 AC AC Adapter (optional)
Canon EOS 50D
Posted on August 28, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Ratings, Reviews, Tips | Leave a Comment
The Canon EOS 50D builds upon the success of the great 40D and takes it up a level with a 15.1 megapixel sensor, ISO range of 100-6400 (extendable up to a whopping 12800), 3.0 inch LCD (920,000 pixels) with Live View for framing images in the LCD, a shutter speed of 30-1/8000 second, Digic IV processor, integrated cleaning system and continuous shooting at 6.3 frames per second.
The Canon 50D is already available for ordering at Amazon in three configurations – check out the different combinations and price points below:
- Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
- Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens
- Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens
Learn more about the Canon EOS 50D and a new 18-200mm lens in the following news release from Canon announcing this new DSLR.
Canon EOS 50D News Release
CANON U.S.A. STIMULATES THE CREATIVITY OF EXPERIENCED PHOTOGRAPHERS WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW EOS 50D DIGITAL SLR CAMERA
Canon’s New DIGIC 4 Image Processor Fuels the 15.1 Megapixel Resolution, Expanded ISO Range and Enhanced Noise Reduction of the New EOS 50D Digital SLR
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., August 26, 2008 — With the demand for digital SLR cameras reaching unprecedented levels, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is answering the call with the announcement of the next evolution in advanced amateur digital SLR photography, the EOS 50D Digital SLR Camera with 15.1 megapixel resolution and Canon’s new DIGIC 4 image processor. Designed to offer extraordinary quality and image control for the advanced photographer with a passion for the art, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera includes an expanded ISO range, improved noise reduction, and in-camera photo editing features. Canon has loaded the EOS 50D camera with a number of enhancements and some trickle-down technology from Canon’s professional Digital SLR cameras, as well as a new Creative Auto Mode (CA) that gives users more creative flexibility to make image setting adjustments conveniently without the need to be a photo expert.
Canon has built upon the success of the popular EOS 40D model — which will remain in Canon’s line — with the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera. Expected to be the camera body of choice for advanced amateur photographers this holiday season, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera carries over the EOS 40D’s 14-bit Analog-to-Digital conversion process for smooth tones, and also includes enhanced noise reduction, especially at higher ISO ranges which will help bring those romantic nighttime shots into greater focus and clarity. Capable of shooting 6.3 frames per second (fps), the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera is ideal for shooting everything from beautiful night landscapes to fast-action sports.
“Advanced amateur photographers blur the line between the hobbyist and the professional, looking for professional features and capabilities in their equipment that will allow them to capture that awe-inspiring image. Canon is constantly striving to provide these shooters with the most advanced imaging technology, like the new EOS 50D Digital SLR camera, to fuel their passion for photography, and help them achieve their creative potential,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
Improved Image Quality
The EOS 50D Digital SLR camera’s 15.1-megapixel CMOS APS-C size image sensor has been improved thanks to the use of newly designed gapless microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and expand sensitivity up to ISO 12800. The faster processing speed of the camera’s DIGIC 4 image processor contributes to the fast 6.3 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting capability (for bursts of up to 90 Large/Fine JPEGs or 16 RAW images on a UDMA CF card), to give shooters the tools they need to capture that perfect moment in perfect clarity.
The Canon EOS 50D camera provides ISO speeds from ISO 100 up to ISO 3200 in 1/3-stop increments, along with two high-speed settings — H1 and H2 — of ISO 6400 and ISO 12800, respectively. Along with a wide ISO range, Canon gives shooters more tools to help maximize clarity and color. The EOS 50D Digital SLR camera offers multiple levels of noise reduction during high-speed shooting. Users can choose from one of four settings — Standard/Weak/Strong/None — to help reduce digital noise that can result from poor lighting conditions.
As part of the camera’s internal image processing, the Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera conducts peripheral illumination correction, which automatically evens brightness across the image field, making an image of a blue sky even toned throughout, a function previously accomplished through post-processing software on a personal computer. Thanks largely to the DIGIC 4 processor, this automatic adjustment can be made in-camera during shooting with JPEG images or corrected in post-photoshoot processing with RAW images through Canon’s Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, which is supplied at no extra charge.
Helping to ensure each picture’s subject is clearly visible, Canon’s enhanced Auto Lighting Optimizer analyzes the brightness of subjects and automatically adjusts dark images so that they appear brighter, perfect for subjects in shade or in backlit situations. The Auto Lighting Optimizer on the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera has been updated not only to optimize images while they are being taken, but can also optimize images post-capture, during playback, to help ensure the subject of each image does not appear too dark. This is especially helpful when an amateur photographer uses the camera, because post-capture enhancement can help maximize image quality without the need of a computer.
A significant upgrade to the Canon EOS 50D camera is its large, clear 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen which features 920,000 dot/VGA resolution, four times the pixel count of the EOS 40D camera’s screen, for better clarity and color. To help show off those fantastic shots, the EOS 50D camera includes an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output to display crisp, clear images on a High-Definition TV. The EOS 50D recognizes the needs of today’s photographers, and the faster processing speed of the DIGIC 4 processor helps support UDMA cards for faster writing of image files.
The camera is also equipped with a high-performance viewfinder featuring 0.95x magnification and the same high-performance Autofocus (AF) system as the EOS 40D camera with nine cross-type sensors for accurate target subject acquisition with lenses possessing maximum apertures of f/5.6 or faster and a high-precision diagonal center cross-type AF point that’s effective with f/2.8 and faster lenses, helping photographers ensure better focus of their targets. The AF Microadjustment feature, originally introduced last year with the Canon EOS-1D Mark III professional digital SLR camera, has also been added to the EOS 50D for maximum control over focusing precision.
Canon Gets Creative For Advancing Amateurs
Canon is taking steps to give advanced amateurs more flexibility with a new “CA” Creative Full Auto setting on the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera’s mode dial. This new setting goes a step beyond Full Auto, by allowing users to make adjustments before shooting while still in an Automatic mode, without needing to know the meaning of technical terms such as aperture, shutter speed, etc. In this mode, the camera menu on the back screen spells out options in common language for average photo enthusiasts, allowing them to “blur the background” or “lighten or darken the image.” These easy-to-comprehend image options will help amateur photographers improve the shots they are capable of taking, while helping them learn new techniques. When in the new CA mode, users will be able to adjust flash settings, brighten or darken images, blur the background, set the camera’s drive mode, and select a picture style directly on the camera’s LCD screen.
Better Live View
For photographers who prefer to frame their shots using the camera’s 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen, Canon has improved the Live View function of the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera to include “Quick Mode AF,” “Live Mode AF,” and “Face Detection Live Mode AF” that detects up to 35 individual forward-looking faces for better focus and clarity when taking group or portrait shots. The camera’s Quick Mode AF setting flips the mirror down and carries out regular phase-detection autofocus, while the Live Mode AF and Face Detection Live Mode AF use the camera’s CMOS image sensor for contrast detection autofocus. Two detailed grid displays have also been added to Live View shooting as optional settings for easier composition.
Two Small RAW Formats
In addition to the RAW and JPEG image capture modes that photographers are accustomed to, the EOS 50D Digital SLR camera now offers more manageable resolution settings and file sizes with two sRAW recording formats, sRAW1 and sRAW2. At the sRAW1 setting, resolution is 7.1 megapixels with a file size that is approximately 25 percent smaller than a standard 15.1 megapixel RAW image. With the sRAW2 setting, resolution is 3.8 megapixels at less than half the file size of a standard RAW image, retaining all of the flexibility and creative possibilities associated with full-size, conventional RAW images. The EOS 50D is the first Canon Digital SLR that allows the use of RAW and sRAW settings in Basic Zone as well as Creative Zone shooting modes, even further improving the camera’s flexibility.
EOS Integrated Cleaning System
The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit for the Canon EOS 50D has also been upgraded and now includes a fluorine coating on the low-pass filter for better dust resistance. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit uses ultrasonic vibrations to shake dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor each time the camera is powered up or shut down. The second part of the system includes a software component where sensor spots are mapped and saved as Dust Delete Data that is attached to the image file for removal during post processing using Canon’s DPP software.
Canon 50D Pricing and Availability
The EOS 50D is compatible with the full lineup of Canon EF lenses as well as the Company’s ever-growing line of affordable EF-S lenses created specifically for Canon Digital SLRs with APS-C size image sensors. The Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR camera is scheduled for October delivery and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated selling price of $1,399.00*. It will additionally be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated selling price of $1,599.00*.
New EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
Canon has answered the call from advanced amateur photographers looking for a solid all-around lens with the introduction of the new EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. With an incredible focal length range equivalent to 29-320mm in the 35mm format, the new EF-S 18-200mm lens will make an excellent addition to any camera bag, and it gives shooters a great lens to capture both standard as well as telephoto images. The new lens features Canon’s built in Optical Image Stabilization system which gives the equivalent effect of a shutter speed roughly 4 steps faster, for better image clarity, even in shaky shooting conditions. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.45m/1.5 ft. at all zoom settings, this new lens should prove to be ideal for those situations where swapping lenses isn’t an option. An ideal complement to the EOS 50D SLR camera and all other EF-S compatible EOS SLR cameras, the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens is scheduled to be in stores this October at an estimated selling price of $699.00*.
Nikon announces Coolpix P6000 with GPS
Posted on August 17, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Nikon has announced its flagship compact, the Coolpix P6000. Built around a 13.5 megapixel, 1/1.72 inch sensor (0.41 square cm), the camera has a 4x zoom starting at a respectably wide-angle – equivalent to 28mm. It also records RAW files in a new NRW format that can be converted in-camera or with the forthcoming Windows version of View NX or Windows Imaging Component compatible applications. The other stand-out feature is the inclusion of built-in GPS logging of the locations at which images were recorded. It is expected to start shipping in September for around $500/£429.99/€575.00. Now with added product images.
Nikon Coolpix P6000 features
- 13.5 megapixel CCD (effective)
- 4x wide-angle zoom lens (28 – 112 mm equiv.) with optical stabilization
- 2.7" LCD monitor (230,000 pixels)
- ISO 64 – 1600 at full resolution (3200 and 6400 at three megapixels)
- NRW RAW format (although "Windows Imaging Component" and "Windows only")
- Built-in GPS receiver records location (latitude and longitude for automatic geotagging)
- External flash and lens accessories
- Wired LAN port
- Face-priority AF
- D-Lighting
This on the new Nikon RAW format:
COOLPIX Picture Control NRW (RAW) files can only be processed in-camera. NRW (RAW) files are compatible for use in-camera, with ViewNX (Windows version only available early October 2008) or with WIC-based applications. Capture NX, Capture NX2 and NEF files are not compatible with NRW (RAW) images.
Press release (UK):
NIKON TRACKS THE ACTION WITH THE COOLPIX P6000
Nikon UK is pleased to announce its new top-of-the-line Performance series COOLPIX model, the P6000, Nikon’s first camera with built-in GPS.
The camera’s superb image quality is guaranteed by an effective 13.5 megapixels, the wide-angle 4x zoom NIKKOR lens including 2 ED glass elements and Nikon’s image-processing system EXPEED. The built-in GPS, RAW support, and integrated Ethernet connector for image sharing via Nikon’s ‘my Picturetown’ make it one of the most advanced compact cameras on the market today. Thanks to its attractive, intelligent design with an SLR-like grip for perfect handling, user-friendly button layout and 2.7-inch high-resolution TFT screen, it’s easy to use – allowing you to concentrate on the shooting.
Mark Pekelharing, Product Manager Consumer Products at Nikon Europe B.V, says: “This new compact camera sets new standards for the compact camera market. Nikon is known for introducing advanced features in both its D-SLR and compact cameras. With the introduction of this GPS model, Nikon proves to be at the forefront of technology once again. The high-quality materials and feature list otherwise only found in high-end cameras will appeal to the discerning user.”
Only the best images
The COOLPIX P6000 is packed with groundbreaking technology to ensure the highest possible image quality from a compact body. Its 13.5 effective megapixels, the use of Nikon’s exclusive image-processing system EXPEED (originally designed for its professional D-SLRs) and a wide-angle 4x Zoom-NIKKOR lens with two ED glass elements (28-112 mm) leave nothing to be desired. The camera’s image quality is further reinforced by its ability to shoot images in RAW format, and Picture Control capabilities, taken from D-SLR products. Furthermore it features three functions to reduce image blur. High-performance Lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) allows sharp pictures with minimal blur and offers the equivalent of shooting at a shutter speed three stops faster. Its superior noise-reduction technology allows a sensitivity range up to ISO 6400. Nikon’s Best Shot Selector allows the camera to take a maximum of 10 sequential shots and automatically saves the sharpest image. This is ideal for macro close-up shooting when camera shake is most likely.
The easiest operation
To get the most out of the COOLPIX P6000’s technology, Nikon has invested the greatest care to ensure it is easy to use. For freedom in exposure control, there is a choice of four exposure modes (P/S/A/M) allowing the user to finely control the camera or to let the camera decide what’s best. Fifteen Scene Modes, including modes for tough-to-shoot environments such as beach/snow, sunset, dusk/dawn and fireworks shows, mean you’ll capture even the trickiest subjects perfectly. There are six colour options for special colour effects similar to those obtained using a filter. The improved Face-priority AF recognises up to 12 faces for both superb portrait photography and crisp group images, even when faces are underexposed in backlit conditions or overexposed in strong sunshine. Should ‘red eye’ occur, the In-camera Red-Eye Fix activates at exposure and automatically reduces and corrects it.
D-Lighting automatically ensures images look natural, rescuing underexposed images caused by excessive backlight or insufficient flashlight. Distortion Control ensures precise subject reproduction and avoids the image distortion that occurs at wide-angle zoom settings or at the peripheries of an image. COOLPIX in-camera Picture Control, based on the technology from Nikon’s award winning D-SLRs, allows the user to flexibly control shooting situations. The camera’s movie function, with the built-in time-lapse movie mode (at up to 640×480 pixels in 30fps), further strengthens the range of creative options.
Share your quality
The COOLPIX P6000 is the first consumer camera with a built-in Ethernet connector, allowing users to share images effortlessly. Upload images to Nikon’s ‘my Picturetown’ – simply connect the camera by LAN cable and share them with others over the internet. This is also useful as a backup when on the road. The camera’s incorporated GPS function will attach a Geotag with positioning information to image files which can then be used on Nikon’s ‘my Picturetown’ website, ViewNX or any other website that can handle Geotags, to indicate the precise location of your images.
The COOLPIX P6000 inherits the design of Nikon’s award-winning P5000 series with further refinements. Its SLR-like grip, for example, is of perfect size, shape and texture for great handling. The ergonomic button layout has been designed considering finger movements during shooting and, to make sure it looks its best, the light and durable magnesium alloy on the front surface of the body will make the COOLPIX P6000 desired by all who recognise quality.
The COOLPIX P6000 comes with a strap, rechargeable battery and AC adapter, USB and audio/video cables, COOLPIX software suite and free 2GB online storage at Nikon’s ‘my Picturetown’.
Nikon COOLPIX P6000 brief specifications
| Sensor |
• 1/1.72" Type CCD |
|---|---|
| Lens | • 4.0x Zoom-Nikkor (28 – 112 mm equiv.) • F2.7 – F5.9 • 9 elements in 7 groups |
| Image dimensions |
• 4224 x 3168 |
| Image stabilization | Optical: Lens-shift VR |
| Conversion lenses | Yes |
| Digital zoom | Up to 4x |
| Focus | Contrast-detect TTL AF |
| Focus distance | • 50 cm (1 ft.) to infinity (∞) • Macro close-up mode: 2 cm (0.8 in) to infinity (∞) |
| ISO sensitivity | • Full res: ISO 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 2000 • 3MP or smaller: ISO 3200, 6400 • Auto (ISO 64-800), Auto high-sensitivity up to ISO 1600 |
| LCD monitor | • 2.7-in wide viewing angle TFT LCD with anti-reflection coating • 230,000-dot |
| Other features |
• GPS |
| Storage | • SD / SDHC card (optional) • Approx 48 MB internal memory |
| Power | • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL5 (supplied) • Approx 260 shots • AC Adapter EH-66 (optional) |
| Accessories (Optional) | • Battery charger MH-61 • Wide-angle Converter WC-E76 • Adapter ring UR-E21 • Speedlights SB-400, SB-600, SB-800 |
| Weight (no batt) | Approx. 240 g (8.5 oz.) without battery and SD memory card |
| Dimensions | Approx. 107 x 66 x 43 mm (4.2 x 2.6 x 1.7 in) |
Additional images
Apple Aperture opens up to Noise Ninja
Posted on August 12, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
PictureCode has released its popular Noise Ninja noise-reduction application as a plug-in for Aperture. Previously available for Photoshop or as a stand-alone application, the Noise Ninja plug-in enables Aperture users to make adjustments to their photographs without having to leave Aperture’s workflow.
For more information, and to download the plug-in, visit the Apple website.
Microtek ArtixScan M1: Review
Posted on July 27, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Stop procrastinating! You know you should turn those sleeves, slide mounts, and shoeboxes full of negatives, transparencies, and prints into digital image files. And if you want complete control, it’s a buy-a-scanner/DIY project. But how much do you have to spend to get high quality? And should you go with a dedicated 35mm film scanner, such as the $550 (street) Nikon Coolscan V ED or a flatbed with transparent media adapters, such as Epson’s $720 (street) Perfection V750-M Pro?
Microtek offers another way — the ArtixScan M1 flatbed and film scanner combo (www.artixscanm1.com). Well priced ($550, street), it boasts glassless direct scanning of film (much like a dedicated film scanner) in sizes up to 4×5 inches at 4800×9600-dpi (actually, samples per inch) optical resolution. With a 48-bit pixel depth, Microtek claims a dynamic range of 4.4 Dmax. (Dmax is the darkest area of an image that can be captured and still show detail.) This rating is quite high.
Microtek’s glassless Emulsion Direct Imaging Technology (E.D.I.T.) reads directly from the film’s emulsion side, with the original held flat, under tension, and applies an autofocus system that analyzes several scans at different focal positions, and makes the final scan at optimal focus. Autofocus can zero in on the center of the film, a point you select in the frame, or be switched off.
If you’re willing to flatten your originals against glass, the Microtek captures film (negatives and transparencies) as large as 8.5×10 inches and prints up to 8.5×14 inches.
The M1′s approach sidesteps the limitations of traditional flatbeds, such as the Epson, which requires a secondary light source in the lid and must scan through a sheet of glass that’s a dirt magnet and may not flatten the film completely. And, unlike the Coolscan V ED, the M1 isn’t limited to 35mm slides and film.
Unlike the Epson flatbed and the Nikon film scanner, the Microtek doesn’t include hardware-based Digital ICE scratch-reduction technology. Instead, there’s SRD dust and scratch removal built into the SilverFast SE Plus software that complements the Microtek ScanWizard Pro application bundled with the unit. Like the Epson, the M1 supports wet-mounting of problematic film originals to temporarily “fill in” scratches.
The most difficult part of getting up and running with the ArtixScan M1 is finding a place to put it. Weighing more than 26 pounds, it occupies 15.2×6.1×22.3 inches of tabletop real estate. Install the included software onto your Windows 2000/XP/Vista or Macintosh OS X computer, plug in the power cord and USB 2.0 cable, reboot, and you’re ready to begin calibrating (both print and film IT8 calibration targets are included) and scanning.
The $110-extra “Pro” package adds the top-of-the-line SilverFast Ai Studio scanning software and an extra set of film holders. Both ScanWizard Pro and SilverFast Ai Studio offer efficient batch scanning (a must when you have scads of originals to digitize and want to gang them together).
The upgraded SilverFast software includes multi-exposure capabilities that streamline creating high-dynamic-range (HDR) images, pulling extra detail out of the darkest areas of your film originals. There also are 120 preset negative film profiles, as well as sophisticated grain, noise, dust, and scratch elimination.
If you’re in the market for a flatbed scanner that can also handle film in a variety of formats, the Microtek ArtixScan M1′s glassless dual-media system is attractive — especially if you frequently switch between prints and film originals. Just make plenty of desk space.
David D. Busch has written nine books on scanners, and is the author of the camera-specific David Busch’s Guides to Digital SLR Photography for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Sony DSLRs.
MASTER COPIES
Scanning isn’t tough. In fact, it’s easy and fun. But most of us don’t do it frequently enough to master (or remember) the subtleties. Here are three Very Confusing topics clarified:
1 The right resolution. To capture all the detail in a 24x36mm slide, use the highest optical resolution you can. Dedicated film scanners generally provide 4000-spi (samples per inch) resolution, while flatbeds typically offer 4800 spi. Scanning a print? Any resolution above 600 spi will just give you a better picture of the grain, and huge files that eat up hard-drive space and slow down your image editor. (Why is “spi” more accurate than “dpi”? Because scanners don’t have dots. Nor do monitors, which are described in ppi, or pixels per inch.)
2 Removing halftones. If your work has been published in books or magazines, you’ll discover that moiré patterns appear when scanning halftone images. All scanners have a Descreen or moiré filter that essentially blurs the halftone dots enough to make them less noticeable. (After the filter has been applied, you might want to restore a little sharpness with a small amount of Unsharp Mask or Smart Sharpen in Adobe Photoshop.) You can also subdue halftone effects by scanning at a higher resolution and resampling to a smaller size or rotating black-and-white halftones on the scanner bed slightly when scanning. (This technique is less successful with color halftones, which typically have four different halftone screens, each at a different angle.)
3 From scan to print.
The drivers for today’s inkjet printers can produce good prints from scans at virtually any resolution. But if you insist on optimizing your scans for your printer (or for output on commercial presses), there’s an excellent calculator that takes all sorts of variables into consideration at www.scantips.com/calc.html.
BOTTOM LINE: Serious resolution, dynamic range, and image-fixing software without a serious financial commitment.
DSLR Shootout: Five Top Cameras Compared
Posted on July 26, 2008 - Filed Under Cameras, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Nikon Coolpix P80 review
Posted on July 20, 2008 - Filed Under Cameras, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Nikon Coolpix P80 review : Many people consider a small model with a large optical zoom range the ideal digital camera. This type of easy-to-carry camera enables you to take every picture you like. The so-called Megazoom cameras are therefore still extremely popular, even though reflex cameras are gradually becoming smaller and cheaper. Nikon may have bid the Megazoom concept farewell just a tad too soon, as they rushed into their undeniably successful line of DSLR cameras. With the availability of the Nikon Coolpix P80, Nikon meet the demands of consumers; a demand that still exists in spite of the success of the digital SLR camera.
Nikon Coolpix P80 digital camera
The specifications of the Nikon Coolpix P80 are extremely promising. 10 Megapixels, 18x optical zoom, ISO range up to 6400 and an in-house produced EXPEED processor also found in the latest generation of DSLR cameras of Nikon, and all of this in a body with dimensions of only 110x79x78 mm. The Nikon P80 weighs a mere 365 grams without its battery and this is a lot less than a standard DSLR. The optical zoom range is large, starting at 27 mm which offers you a true wide angle. Thankfully, manufacturers are slowly but surely starting to recognize the benefits of a wide angle.
Optical image stabilizer on the Nikon P80
At maximum telephoto mode a focal length of 486 mm is obtained compared to a 35mm camera, and that is not bad. In order to obtain a sharp picture, you do need an optical image stabilizer. Nikon chose for the Coolpix P80 to apply a moveable sensor; which is a true image stabilization system that should guarantee carefree use of the large optical range in practice.
Edit pictures on the Nikon Coolpix P80
Nikon do not limit to picture-taking alone, also editing afterwards is taken into account. Like most Nikon cameras, the Nikon P80 has also been equipped with D-lighting. Dark areas in a picture are brightened, resulting in a more natural contrast. Naturally, this is done without overwriting the original. This is a very convenient functionality that can be frequently used in practice.
Nikon Coolpix P80 camera review
The Nikon Coolpix P80 is ranked in Nikon’s top class which makes the expectations rise sky-high. We expect a high performance when we look at the impressive specifications, although we are aware of the fact that Nikon place the bar really high for themselves. We had the camera in our possession for quite a while and have submitted it to some extensive tests. Whether or not Nikon have had to compromise can be read in the following Nikon Coolpix P80 camera review.
Pixel Density: when Moore is less
Posted on July 17, 2008 - Filed Under Digital, Photo, Reviews | Leave a Comment
We’ve added some new information to our product database to make it easier to understand the characteristics of camera sensors. The idea of megapixels is generally well understood but, mainly because of the way they’ve historically been presented, sensor sizes aren’t.
We feel that relating these two pieces of information gives a clearer understanding of how they interact. To achieve this, we’ve added the new field: "Pixel Density" to our database, to help when comparing cameras. We think you’ll find it useful.
Up until now, the sensor sizes have been provided as slightly obscure imperial fractions that hark back to a set of standard sizes given to TV camera tubes in the 50′s. This is industry standard practice but by no means intuitive. To get around this, we’ve researched the common sensor sizes and used them to calculate a value we’re calling ‘Pixel Density.’
Pixel Density is a calculation of the number of pixels on a sensor, divided by the imaging area of that sensor. It can be used to understand how closely packed a sensor is and helps when comparing two cameras with different sensor sizes or numbers of photosites (pixels). Because the light collecting area and efficiency of each photosite will vary between technologies and manufacturers, Pixel Density should not be used as an absolute metric for camera quality but instead to get an impression for how tightly packed the imaging chip is.
Pixel Density now appears in our database and will appear when you look up a specific camera or when you conduct a ‘Side-by-side’ comparison in our Buying Guide. We’ll also add it as a search criterion in the Buying Guide’s ‘Features Search.’
In recent months we’ve made small changes to the database (such as adding viewfinder specifications for DSLRs and tweaking the value ranges that can be used for searching it). We have even bigger plans for the future so, if you have any ideas you’d like to see implemented or think you have more sensible search ranges that should be applied, please get in touch. Use the ‘Feedback’ link on the left of the page and select ‘Camera database error’ as the Subject.