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-- News Articles Index -- Happy Fourth July's Tech Corner Nikon Introduces Full-Frame $3K D700 SLR, SB-900 Speedlight and Two New Micro Nikkor Lenses Sony Ericsson Unveils Its First Ever 8.1 Megapixel Camera Phone Nikon Capture NX 2 Now Available New Sony Alpha Flash Unit Sony Announces New Handycam Panasonic Unveils Two New HD Digital Camcorders Sony Announces New CMOS Image Sensor Canon Announces Rebel XTi Successor Canon Releases New Speedlite Pentax Announces New smc Lens Nikon Releases Capture NX 2 Tech Corner Posted SanDisk Announces New Extreme III Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo Apple Adds New RAW File Support Rebates For Pentax K20D/K200D Pentax Announces New Waterproof Optio Model FujiFilm To Increase Prices Of Photographic Papers And More Canon Adds Two New Compact Photo Printers Steve's "Best Cameras" Picks Mike Chaney's Tech Corner PMA 2008 Report

7/4/2008 12:01:00 AM

Happy Fourth As much fun as they are to watch, fireworks are equally as challenging to photograph. Working on the Mall gives the Smithsonian's staff photographers on-going opportunities to capture these events on film, and to test and improve their individual photographic techniques. Although their individual techniques may vary, the Smithsonian photographers all have some basic recommendations. To check out their pointers visit the Smithsonian website. Shutterbug also has some great information to share so you can get great shots of fireworks.Shutterbugsource

7/1/2008 11:15:00 AM

July's Tech Corner For July's 2008 article, our good friend Mike Chaney writes about "Innovations in Camera Profiling". Be sure to read the entire article. Background In January 2007, I demonstrated a method for creating an ICC profile for your digital camera using a standard IT8 target. The article covered how to set up and shoot the target and how to process the photo and create a profile using my Profile Prism software. While the process was relatively simple, camera profiling has always come with some limitations and tradeoffs. The biggest problem with camera profiling is being able to create a profile that works for all photos. Because things like exposure, lighting, and white balance are always relative, creating an ICC profile from a shot of a reference target can always be problematic as the camera often uses different tone curves for different subjects and lighting. Read on

7/1/2008 12:03:00 AM

Nikon Introduces Full-Frame $3K D700 SLR, SB-900 Speedlight and Two New Micro Nikkor Lenses MELVILLE, N.Y. (July 1, 2008) – Nikon, Inc. today introduced the new D700 digital SLR camera featuring a 12.1-effective megapixel Nikon FX-format sensor that measures 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of 35mm film. Benefiting from Nikon’s legacy of imaging technology innovation, the D700 offers both advanced and professional photographers stunning image quality, accurate color reproduction and revolutionary low light performance. Read the D700 press release. Also announced today is the new Speedlight SB-900, the PC-E Nikkor 45mm f/2.8D ED and PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D lenses.

6/27/2008 12:24:00 AM

Sony Ericsson Unveils Its First Ever 8.1 Megapixel Camera Phone The C905 is Sony Ericsson’s first Cyber-shot slider and its most advanced camera phone yet. With an 8.1 megapixel camera and real camera flash amongst its cutting-edge capabilities, it offers easy photo-taking in a phone that derives its looks from a digital camera and offers the picture quality to match. In comparison the S302 Snapshot is for those who want it all at an affordable price – good looks, must-have features and a pocket-sized slim design. “The C905 Cyber-shot™ and S302 Snapshot have been developed to make us all better photographers! That means making it easier to take great shots and never missing that magic moment.” said Sven Totté, Head of Imaging Marketing at Sony Ericsson. “Although both have photography at their core, the phones are very distinct; the 8.1megapixel C905 is a viable alternative to a digital camera and the S302 is perfect for those who don’t want to miss a moment and like to send or Bluetooth™ their photos to their friends.” Read the full press release

6/20/2008 9:09:00 AM

Nikon Capture NX 2 Now Available MELVILLE, N.Y. (June 20, 2008) – Nikon is pleased to announce that Capture NX 2 image editing software is now available for purchase at authorized Nikon dealers and through the Nikon Mall online store. The latest generation of Capture NX provides photography enthusiasts with a suite of powerful tools operated by simple yet visually intuitive controls to streamline the photo editing process. Capture NX 2 utilizes revolutionary U Point® technology to give photographers access to powerful Control Points that enhance color, exposure, and other image quality settings quickly and easily. Capture NX 2 offers users a wealth of new technologies focused on photographers, including the innovative new Selection Control Point that places a commanding suite of image editing tools at the user’s fingertips to simplify and accelerate the image editing experience. Additionally, Capture NX 2 adds an advanced Auto Retouch Brush for seamless retouching, an improved yet simple user interface, updated menus, browser functionality and an increase in performance. Whether users choose JPEG, TIFF files, or take advantage of advanced RAW (NEF) processing capabilities, Capture NX 2 is an asset to any workflow. With a minimal learning curve, users are able to take advantage of simplified image browsing, selection and labeling and improved batch-processing capabilities. To download the 60-day free trial (Mac and PC versions) and sample the powerful creative possibilities of Capture NX 2, please visit http://www.capturenx.com. To purchase the unlimited full version users can to obtain a license through the trial, visit their local imaging retailer, or shop securely online at the Nikon Mall by logging onto http://www.nikonmall.com. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $109.95 to upgrade from version one, or $179.95 for the full version.

6/19/2008 9:01:00 AM

New Sony Alpha Flash Unit SAN DIEGO, Jun. 19, 2008 – Sony is expanding its a (alpha) system of accessories to include the new HVL-F58AM flash unit with exceptional features for versatile and flexible external lighting control. Quick Shift Bounce and Expanded Versatility This new flash features a new and innovative Quick Shift Bounce system. It offers more creative ways to achieve lighting, flash and bounce angles you may not have been able to experience before. The flash head can pivot 90 degrees left and right on a horizontal axis in addition to the conventional up and down vertical adjustment. With this system, the camera and flash unit can keep the same orientation regardless of portrait or landscape shooting. This gives a higher degree of flexibility when arranging the direction of light. Please read the entire HVL-F58AM Press Release.

6/19/2008 12:05:00 AM

Sony Announces New Handycam SAN DIEGO, June 18, 2008 – Sony is taking the lead in the camcorder industry by introducing the first high-definition camcorder with both Smile Shutter™ and face detection technologies. Be sure to read the HDR-CX12 Press Release.

6/18/2008 2:59:00 PM

Panasonic Unveils Two New HD Digital Camcorders Secaucus, NJ (June 18, 2008) – Panasonic today expanded its High Definition (HD) suite of products, with the announcement of two new full-HD camcorders, the HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100, the world’s first* AVCHD camcorders with a 3MOS system which provides superb video image quality. The HDC-SD100 records to SD Memory Card, while the hybrid HDC-HS100 records to both SD Memory Card and to its internal 60 GB* hard drive. Both models include manual functions for the user wanting more precise control over zoom, focus, iris, shutter speed and white balance. The models also include Panasonic’s new Intelligent Auto (iA) mode, an intuitive set of technologies that automatically activate, making video shooting an easy, seamless process. Please read the entire Press Release.

6/13/2008 8:00:00 PM

Sony Announces New CMOS Image Sensor Signal-to-noise ratio improvement of +8dB, for use in consumer digital video camcorders and digital still cameras Tokyo, Japan (June 11, 2008) - Sony Corporation today announced the development of a back-illuminated CMOS image sensor (pixel size: 1.75µm square pixels, five effective megapixels, 60 frames/s) with significantly enhanced imaging characteristics, including nearly twofold sensitivity*1 and low noise. This improved performance has been achieved by illuminating the backside of the silicon substrate, in contrast to conventional CMOS image sensors based on front-illumination technology. FOr more information, please read the Press Release.

6/10/2008 8:20:00 PM

Canon Announces Rebel XTi Successor Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 10 June 2008: Canon today announces its latest D-SLR, the Digital Rebel XS aka EOS 1000D. Featuring a 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, 7-point wide area AF system and up to 3fps continuous JPEG shooting until the memory card is full*1, the EOS 1000D represents a more affordable entry point to the world of EOS cameras – whilst taking full advantage of over 70 years of imaging expertise. With the lightest body of any digital EOS camera, the EOS 1000D incorporates a range of technologies used in Canon’s professional EOS-1 series cameras, including the DIGIC III image processor, and Live View mode. For straight-from-the-box shooting, the EOS 1000D is available with a Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS lens – which includes 4-stop image stabilization, ensuring superb performance even in low-light conditions. Please read the entire Canon Rebel XS Press Release.

6/10/2008 8:15:00 PM

Canon Releases New Speedlite Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 10 June 2008: Canon today announces the latest addition to its EX Speedlite flash unit range, the Speedlite 430EX II. A high-powered compact flash, the Speedlite 430EX II has a guide number of 43 (m/ISO 100 at 105mm) and a built-in wide panel to allow coverage suitable for wide angle lenses to 14mm. Replacing the Canon Speedlite 430EX, the Speedlite 430EX II offers fast, silent recycling and full control via the menu system of compatible EOS cameras. It is ideal for both amateurs and professionals seeking a versatile, all-purpose flash. Be sure to check out the full Canon 430EX II Press Release.

6/4/2008 3:21:00 PM

Pentax Announces New smc Lens GOLDEN, CO. (June 3, 2008) - PENTAX Imaging Company has introduced the smc PENTAX DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM interchangeable zoom lens designed for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. This standard lens with extra zoom offers outstanding, well-balanced handling, and covers the most frequently used focal lengths between wide-angle and telephoto making it ideal for a variety of shots including scenery, snapshot and portraiture. Please read the full Pentax Press Release.

6/3/2008 10:04:00 AM

Nikon Releases Capture NX 2 Powerful New Tools Make Photo Editing Quick and Easy MELVILLE, N.Y. (June 3, 2008) – Nikon Inc., today introduced the latest generation of its robust image processing and editing software, Capture NX 2, which provides photography enthusiasts with a suite of powerful tools and a simple, visual operation to streamline photo editing. Capture NX 2 utilizes revolutionary U Point® technology to give photographers access to powerful Control Points that enhance color, exposure, and other image quality settings quickly and easily. New technologies abound in Capture NX 2, including the innovative new Selection Control Point that places a commanding suite of image editing tools at the user’s fingertips to simplify and accelerate the image editing experience. In addition, Capture NX 2 adds an advanced Auto Retouch Brush for seamless retouching, an improved yet simple user interface, updated menus, browser functionality and an increase in performance. Whether you choose JPEG, TIFF or RAW (NEF) files, Capture NX 2 is the perfect complement to the growing Nikon Digital System. It also offers advanced RAW (NEF) processing capabilities, simplified image-browsing, selection and labeling as well as improved batch-processing capabilities, superior color management and comprehensive system compatibility with Nikon’s EXPEED image processing concept. “We have listened carefully to the requests of current Capture NX users and photographers in developing this powerful new software. This is an economical solution for the photographer who requires non-destructive image editing and wants to quickly and easily process their images,” said Michael Rubin, senior manager for Software Products at Nikon Inc. “With the addition of revolutionary new tools, photo enthusiasts as well as professionals will be able to reap the benefits of Capture NX 2.” While providing incomparable editing options for Nikon’s Electronic Format RAW (NEF) files, Capture NX 2 enables simplified editing and processing for most JPEG and TIFF files regardless of camera manufacturer or model.* Its broad range of editing tools makes image retouching, enhancing and editing simple and intuitive, allowing users to immediately see the effects as they are applied. Whether a professional photographer, enthusiast or casual shutterbug, many will find Capture NX 2 to be a great stand-alone photo editing solution, while others will discover that Capture NX 2 is a remarkably effective addition to their existing photographic workflow. New Additions to Capture NX 2 Capture NX 2 is complemented by a myriad of features and tools that include the following: Selection Control Points: Now users can selectively edit photographs without the need to manually outline or mask the area for editing. Simply place a Selection Control Point anywhere on the photograph then choose from almost any adjustment such as D-Lighting, Unsharp Mask or noise reduction, while limiting the “reach” of that adjustment to just the selected area. Auto Retouch Brush: Capture NX 2 adds an automatic retouch tool to its image editing toolbox, allowing users to seamlessly remove blemishes, dust, and other distracting elements from photographs while maintaining the integrity of the image. Shadow/Highlight Adjustment: With just a simple slider adjustment, users can easily open up shadows or recover blown out highlights. Redesigned GUI with Customizable Workspaces: As part of an interface redesign, the new Capture NX 2 includes a Workspace feature that maximizes the tool and palette layout for the task at hand. Users can create unique custom workspaces ideal for working with single or multiple monitors. All palettes and windows within can be docked or undocked or hidden as needed. Predefined workspaces include: Browser, Metadata, Edit, or an optimized combination of each. In addition, users can access their most used folders with the new “Favorite Folder” feature. Improved Edit List: Nikon’s Capture NX 2 also incorporates an improved edit list that allows users to apply common enhancements to images with ease. Common tools like tone curves, exposure compensation, contrast, and highlight and shadow protection are just a click away via the Quick Fix menu. The improved edit list allows for camera and lens corrections like color moiré reduction, dust off, auto color aberration, auto red-eye correction, vignette control and fisheye lens correction. Simultaneous Use of Tools: Users can now complete image editing faster than ever before with the use of simultaneous tools. For example, users can adjust the brightness and contrast of an image while boosting the color of the image at the same time. Filters, Ratings and Sorting Toolbar: Capture NX 2 offers an advanced filtering system in its tool bar, affording users an efficient way to filter through hundreds of images by user-defined labels, ratings, file types and file attributes. What’s more, these new filters, ratings and sorting tools are integrated into the metadata palette, allowing users the ability to easily edit and view XMP/IPTC information. Nikon’s new Capture NX 2 software represents the core of Nikon’s integrated digital imaging systems, including cameras, lenses, software, speedlights and accessories, and allows photographers of all skill levels to experience the highest performance their Nikon equipment has to offer. Capture NX 2 will be available for purchase throughout the United States in late June 2008 with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $179.95 (full version) or $109.95 (upgrade). A 60-day free trial version will be available today for users who wish to experience all that Capture NX 2 offers. For more information, and to download the 60-day trial version please visit www.nikonusa.com.

6/1/2008 12:01:00 AM

Tech Corner Posted Our good friend Mike Chaney, author of Qimage and Profile Prism software, writes about a decision that many have battled with. This month's column is titled "What to Buy: dSLR or Compact Camera, be sure to give it a read!

5/30/2008 9:35:00 AM

SanDisk Announces New Extreme III Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA, May 30, 2008 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) today introduced the fastest card in its Memory Stick product family: the SanDisk Extreme® III Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™ with read and write speeds of 30 megabytes (MB)1 per second. The card, available in June in 4-gigabyte (GB)1 and 8GB capacities, is ideal for professional photographers and advanced amateurs who use Sony digital single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras. SanDisk and Sony jointly developed Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo as an extension of the existing Memory Stick PRO format, to offer faster read and write speeds for PRO-HG capable Sony digital SLRs, point-and-shoot cameras and digital camcorders. SanDisk is unveiling the SanDisk Extreme III Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo at the PMA Australia 2008 Imaging Technology Show, where the company is exhibiting at Stand 401 in the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 30 to June 1. “The SanDisk Extreme III Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo continues our tradition of delivering best-in-class performance in the SanDisk Extreme product line,” said Susan Park, director of consumer product marketing for SanDisk’s performance cards. “Our customers know SanDisk Extreme cards not only deliver cutting-edge read and write speeds, but are designed for durability – even under harsh conditions.” SanDisk Extreme III cards are capable of functioning in extreme temperatures, from -13 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit or -25 to 85 degrees Celsius, and carry a lifetime warranty. The cards also come with RescuePRO™ software for recovering deleted images. Pricing and Availability SanDisk Extreme III Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo cards will be available worldwide in June. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the 4GB card is US $89.99 and for the 8GB card is US $149.99. About SanDisk SanDisk Corporation, the inventor and world’s largest supplier of flash storage cards, is a global leader in flash memory – from research, manufacturing and product design to consumer branding and retail distribution. SanDisk’s product portfolio includes flash memory cards for mobile phones, digital cameras and camcorders; digital audio/video players; USB flash drives for consumers and the enterprise; embedded memory for mobile devices; and solid state drives for computers. SanDisk (www.sandisk.com/corporate) is a Silicon Valley-based S&P 500 company, with more than half its sales outside the United States.

5/29/2008 2:35:00 PM

Apple Adds New RAW File Support Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 2.1 About Digital Camera RAW Compatibility Update 2. This update extends RAW file compatibility for Aperture 2 and iPhoto ’08 for the following cameras: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/Kiss Digital x2/450D Epson R-D1 Leaf AFi 7 Leaf AFi 6 Leaf AFi 5 Pentax K200D Pentax K20D For more informatuon and to download this update, please visit Apple's Support website.

5/23/2008 11:27:00 AM

Rebates For Pentax K20D/K200D "Go with either the K20D or the K200D. Add lenses, flash, and battery grip and you're on your way to the ultimate digital SLR system. Then start saving, because from May 22 through July 26, 2008, the PENTAX Gear Up Rebate Program offers up to $375 off your new DSLR system. So gear up and save up." Below we are providing pricing and availability in real-time for our readers so they can quickly take advantage of this great offer. In The United States? Check out these stores: Visit Pentax's site for more information and rebate requirements.

5/22/2008 6:01:00 PM

Pentax Announces New Waterproof Optio Model WATERPROOF PENTAX OPTIO W60 SHOOTS DEEPER, WIDER AND AT COLDER TEMPS GOLDEN, CO (May 22, 2008) - PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the PENTAX Optio W60 compact digital camera. Lightweight and fully waterproof, the Optio W60 features 10 megapixels and a 5X zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle capability. The enhanced design of the Optio W60 allows the camera to operate up to 13 feet underwater for two hours and at extreme temperatures well below freezing. Be sure to read the entire Optio W60 Press Release.

5/21/2008 9:29:00 AM

FujiFilm To Increase Prices Of Photographic Papers And More Domestic Price Adjustments Reflect International Price Increase VALHALLA, N.Y., May 20, 2008 — FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced that it will adopt a price increase on its range of photographic papers, chemistry and other photosensitive products in the U.S. This decision follows the recent announcement from FUJIFILM Corporation that effective July, 2008, prices of its photographic papers and other photosensitive products will increase by 10-20%. Fujifilm's pricing in the U.S. market will track with this adjustment. Globally, Fujifilm has undertaken intensive structural reforms to reduce fixed costs and improve productivity. The company has continued to absorb increasing costs associated with raw materials used in the manufacture of films and papers in recent years. However, soaring costs of raw materials, such as, silver and crude oil have made it impossible for Fujifilm to continue to absorb these costs in its manufacturing process.

5/16/2008 10:32:00 AM

Canon Adds Two New Compact Photo Printers CANON U.S.A. TURNS PRINTING INTO PLAYTIME WITH TWO NEW COMPACT PHOTO PRINTERS New "Basket-Style" Photo Printer Blends Style With Convenience For All Ages LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., May 13, 2008 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging, announces two new additions to its line of compact photo printers: the radical SELPHY CP770 and the exciting ultra-compact CP760 Photo Printers. These sensibly sized photo printers tout a fresh, unique design which simplifies printing for all users and makes it easier to print photos instantly, almost anywhere. Whether it's baby's first steps in the nursery or grandma and grandpa's summer road trip, these compact photo printers can provide the whole family with instant memories almost anywhere -all without having to use a computer or camera to download images. These new printers are the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience the joy of printing photos. Please read the entire press release.

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