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July 2004

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-- Top News Stories --

Canon-Europe Powershot A85
Canon's New Pixma Photo Inkjets
Canon Releases EOS Viewer Utility
Epson CX4600 All-in-One
Epson PhotoPC L-410
Epson Stylus C66 and C86 Printers
Fantasea UW Housing Nikon 5200/4200
Fuji's New "E" Series Cameras
Fuji FinePix S3100 & S5100
Fuji S3 Pro Features/Availability
Fujifilm Studiomaster PRO 3.0
Minolta DiMAGE X50
Minolta DiMAGE Z3
Minolta DiMAGE Z10
Nikon D2H Firmware Update 2.0.0
Noise Ninja 2.0 for Mac & Windows
Olympus Firmware Updates C-8080 / E1
Panasonic Lumix FX7
Panasonic FZ20, FZ15 and FZ3
Panasonic Lumix LC80
Sony 7.2-Megapixel DSC-P150
Sony DCR-HC1000 3-CCD Camcorder



June 2004 News Index
May 2004 News Index
April 2004 News Index



Steve's "Best Cameras" List

Mike Chaney's Tech Corner

Sunday Morning Photographer


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07-31-2004

High Growth in the Consumer Digital Camera Market Astounds Industry, Report Says

Continued high growth rates in the consumer digital camera market are astounding industry vendors, who are waiting for the peak, according to the "2004 Consumer Digital Camera Forecast, North America" from InfoTrends/CAP Ventures, Weymouth, Mass., USA. It predicts two more years of strong growth before sales peak. Consumer digital camera unit sales in the United States are forecasted to reach 22.8 million in 2004. This represents a unit growth of 42 percent over 2003, which showed 58 percent unit growth over 2002.

Factors that contribute to ongoing high growth rates include the growing market of first-time buyers (digital camera penetration is expected to reach over 40 percent of U.S. households by year-end), and the rate of digital camera users replacing or purchasing an additional digital camera.

"Digital camera users have a lot of incentive to upgrade to the latest crop of digital cameras, since many models introduced this year address several user complaints such as slow imaging processing and poor battery life," says Michelle Slaughter, director of Digital Photography Trends at InfoTrends/CAP Ventures. "Additionally, manufacturers are gaining more traction in the U.S. market with premium features, including larger color LCDs (2 inches and larger), ultra-compact and stylish designs, extended zoom models (over 3X optical), and digital SLRs."

The growing demand for premium point & shoot cameras and sub-$1,000 digital SLRs is raising the average selling price for these devices. The average selling price is forecasted to increase this year, which is great news for manufacturers since they have faced steep price erosion over the life of most models.

The top vendors in the digital camera market are Sony, Canon, Kodak, Olympus, Fuji, HP, and Nikon, ranked in terms of 2003 U.S. unit share. Each of these players captures more than 5 percent market share, and other players capture individual market shares of less than 5 percent. Sony and Canon are the market leaders with nearly equal unit shares. These players are expected to remain the leaders through 2004.

(Source: PMA Newsline International)




07-29-2004

Addonics Announces MFR (Multi Function Recorder) with DVD+/-R/RW -- 25-in-1 Digital Media Storage Appliance

SAN JOSE, CA (July 29, 2004) – Addonics Technologies today announced a portable digital media appliance that can perform 25 different functions for a wide range of applications. The new Addonics MFR (Multi Function Recorder) with a DVD+/-R/RW is a stand alone flash media backup system, DVD, digital photo and MP3 player as well as an external USB 2.0 DVD burner and flash memory reader/writer -- all combined into one powerful portable peripheral that can be used for businesses, home, or even inside a vehicle.

The 25 functions supported by the Addonics MFR include: read/write and backup to DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, CD-R or CD-RW with 11 different types of flash memory media - for CF-1, CF-II, Smart Media, Secure Digital card, Multi-Media card, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick DUO, Memory Stick Pro DUO, Micro Dive and xD Card. Eight playback media functions include DVD to TV, DVD to PC, CD, VCD, still photo on TV, still photo via projector, S-Video, and MP3. Six recording media supported includes DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW, DVD-R/RW, CD-R, and CDRW.

The complete package (Model # AEMFR842D) includes the Addonics MFR with DVD+/-R/RW unit, remote control unit, rechargeable battery, 110/220v power adapter, three-foot USB cable, combo A/V cable, S-video cable, Sonic MyDVD authoring software, PowerDVD MPEGII Playback software, and Nero Express (Windows version) software, 2 blank CD-R media, user guide, and carrying bag. The MSRP is $319.99.




07-28-2004

Olympus Releases Firmware Updates for C-8080 Wide Zoom and E1 SLR

Olympus has issued a firmware update for the C8080 Wide Zoom that fixes an AF malfunction problem or the camera buttons getting locked up and also now properly displays the focal length in 35mm equivalent in the Exif file data. Olympus has also released a firmware update for the digital E1 SLR that corrects a problem with a communication error when the lens aperture value was changed with the Camera Control module of Olympus Studio software.




07-28-2004

Fujifilm Announces Availability and New Features For Finepix S3 Pro Professional Digital Camera


VALHALLA, NY, July 28, 2004 – Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. today announced that the camera of choice for many wedding, portrait and commercial photographers will be available October 2004 with a number of previously unannounced features, including adjustable dynamic range and film simulation modes.

Special features that will set the FinePix S3 Pro apart from competitors will be Fujifilm’s proprietary Super CCD SR II sensor, new and advanced image processing technology and a number of professional controls developed exclusively for the FinePix S3 Pro. Photographers shooting with the FinePix S3 Pro will experience greater dynamic range, improved tonal capabilities, exceptional color balancing and accuracy and better signal-to-noise ratios, all factors that contribute to a colorful, clear and detail-laden picture.

Read the full Fuji S3 Pro press release and specs..




07-28-2004

Fujifilm Unveils Versatile New Digital Camera Line


VALHALLA, NY – JULY 28, 2004 – Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. today announced the addition of a new line of versatile cameras to its line of consumer digital products. Perfect for use in families with multiple photographers, for consumers who are interested in growing their photography skills, and for photo hobbyists looking for a powerful feature set in a compact body, the new FinePix E500, E510 and E550 models combine the best of point-and-shoot ease with Fujifilm’s trusted image quality.

The FinePix E500, E510 and E550 will be available in August 2004. The FinePix E500 will sell for approximately $299.99, while the FinePix E510 will sell for approximately $349.99. The FinePix E550 will sell for approximately $499.99.

Read the full Fuji press release.




07-28-2004

Fujifilm Upgrades Popular Fujifilm Finepix Models


VALHALLA, NY – JULY 28, 2004 – Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. today announced the addition of two new digital cameras in the company’s S-series line. Both the FinePix S3100 and S5100 deliver powerful 4.0 megapixel resolution in appealing 35mm-style form factors, and provide enhancements for improved viewfinder and LCD viewing in low-light situations.

The FinePix S3100 will be available in August 2004 and sell for approximately $349.99, while the FinePix S5100 will ship in October 2004 and sell for approximately $499.99.

Read the full Fuji press release.




07-25-2004

Canon Pixma iP4000 Printer Review Just Posted

I'm always interested in seeing what Canon can do to improve their printer line every year and I'm happy to report that they've done it again with their new Pixma line of inkjet printers. We just posted the Canon Pixma iP4000 review, it's a fast, 5-color photo and general purpose color and text printer. For just $149 it comes with dual paper trays, built-in duplexer and it's PictBridge compatible with today's digicams. This printer can play the dual role of photo printer and regular printer so it won't be sitting idle between photo printing sessions, check it out!




07-23-2004

New Cameras Reviews Just Posted

Just a quick note to let you know that we've posted a number of new camera reviews in the last couple of days:

Reviews currently in progress are: Pentax OptioMX, Panasonic LC1, Kodak 7440, Kodak LS753, Konica Minolta X31



07-23-2004

Canon Digital Cameras Receive Three DIWA Awards

July 23, 2004: DIWA Awards have recently been presented to Canon Inc. for three of their high performance digital cameras. The PowerShot Pro 1 was awarded with a gold medal, in recognition of its overall qualities, performance and value. Two other Canon models, PowerShot S1 IS and EOS 300D, were both honored with silver medals for outstanding performance. The awards are the results of comprehensive, independent reviews of different samples, made by a number of DIWA camera testing experts from Europe and USA.

Read the full DIWA press release.




07-22-2004

Photobird.com Introduces the Photobird Photo of the Hour

San Francisco, CA - July 21, 2004 - Photobird.com, the easy way to share your photos around the world, today announced the immediate availability of the Photobird Photo of the Hour. The Photobird Photo of the Hour is the perfect opportunity for vacationers, mothers, hobbyists, photographers, and everyone with a digital camera to share their best photos. The Photobird Photo of the Hour is shown on the Photobird.com home page giving everyone who visits Photobird.com the ability to see some of the absolute best digital photos.

A free trial to Photobird.com and more information about the Photobird Photo of the Hour announced today are available at www.photobird.com.




07-22-2004

Idruna Software's Pocket Phojo 2.6 a Smash Hit at Wimbledon, Set To Go For Gold at the Olympics

Murrieta, CA - July 21st, 2004 - Idruna Pocket Phojo, the highly acclaimed Pocket PC solution specifically designed to allow photojournalists to get photos back to base as rapidly and conveniently as possible, proved an essential tool at Wimbledon 2004, where laptops were initially banned from the show courts due to space constraints.

AFP, the world's oldest established news agency, and PA News, the UK leader in sports and news information, both used multiple Pocket PC systems running the Phojo software to transmit a total of 230-280 photos per day from the courts, every day for two weeks. Both agencies plan on repeating this success at the 2004 Olympics, as will many other newspapers and agencies from Greece and around the world.

Read the full Pocket Phojo press release.




07-21-2004

Panasonic Announces Three New Lumix Cameras with Stabilized Leica 12x Optical Zoom Lenses


12x optical zoom with an optical image stabilizer. Integrating unrivalled optical and digital technologies with ergonomic design, Panasonic’s three new 12x zoom Lumix™ models achieve a level of performance never before seen in digital cameras. New models DMC-FZ3 (3-Megapixel), DMC-FZ15 (4-Megapixel) and DMC-FZ20 (5-Megapixel) feature a versatile, high-performance Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with powerful 12x zoom (equivalent to a 35 – 420mm zoom lens on a conventional 35mm film camera) and F2.8 brightness throughout the entire zoom range. With their extraordinary telephoto features and precision image stabilizers, these cameras are engineered to capture every detail of distant or quick-moving subjects with superb brightness and clarity.

Read the full Panasonic press release.




07-21-2004

Panasonic Announces Compact Lumix FX7 with Optical Image Stabilizer

Secaucus, NJ (July 21, 2004) - Panasonic’s new model DMC-FX7 5-megapixel Lumix digital camera packs a wealth of advanced technology and easy-to-use features in a sleek, compact package. It’s the first compact digital camera to feature both an Optical Image Stabilizer, and 2.5" LCD. Incorporating a high-performance Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens, the DMC-FX7 combines the ease and convenience of digital utility with the expressiveness of film photography. Scheduled to begin shipping to retailers in August, the DMC-FX7 will be available in black or silver. The unit will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $499.95.

Read the full Panasonic press release.




07-21-2004

Panasonic 5-Megapixel Lumix LC80 Point-And-Shoot Combines Sophisticated Features with Simple Operation

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2004) - Joining Panasonic’s celebrated Lumix™ camera line is the new DMC-LC80. Compact and lightweight, this 5-megapixel model packs some of today’s most advanced digital camera technology into a fun, easy-to-use camera that anyone can enjoy. The DMC-LC80 features a high-performance Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens (7 elements in 6 groups) featuring F2.8-F4.9 brightness and a focal distance of 5.8mm to 17.4mm (comparable to a 35 to 105mm lens on a 35mm film camera.) The DMC-LC80 Lumix camera will be available beginning this August and will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $349.95.

Read the full Panasonic press release.




07-21-2004

Sony DSC-P150, World's Smallest 7.2-Megapixel Digicam


Sony’s new Cyber-shot DSC-P150 is the world’s first compact point-and-shoot digital camera in the marketplace loaded with 7.2 megapixels, putting breathtaking, near-professional-quality photos in your shirt pocket or handbag. The Cyber-shot P150 features a Carl Zeiss 3X optical zoom lens and the camera outfit includes a 32MB Memory Stick media card, InfoLITHIUM rechargeable battery pack, Cyber-shot Station (docking/charging cradle), infrared remote control, it will be available in September for less than $500.

Read the full Sony press release.




07-20-2004

VicMan Software Releases Jpeg Enhancer 1.2

Jpeg Enhancer 1.2 for Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP is an advanced application that lets you remove the artifacts and a blotchy look from your JPEG images, making them look as if they have been saved at a 100% ("super-fine") quality. It is based on advanced science-intensive technology that lets you repair images quickly, smoothly and easily.

Jpeg Enhancer has a simple, easy-to-grasp interface so that the user can easily and quickly operate the program and set different parameters for each individual recovery process. You can have the desired image look, adjusting settings for such options as "Blotchy look removal", "Artifacts removal", "Contrast increase", "Crispness". All these options make for amazing recovery results.

Trial version is available for download, full version costs only $24.95 for home users and $49.95 for commercial organizations. Owners of Jpeg Enhancer are entitled to free updates and technical support.




07-20-2004

Canon Europe/Japan Announce New Powershot A85

Canon Europe and Japan today announced the new Powershot A85, building on the incredibly popular Powershot A70 model and increasing resolution to 4-megapixels with a larger 1.8-inch color LCD, 640x480 (VGA) movie mode, new Scene preset modes and improved 9-point AF system. Canon USA has not announced its availability yet although we expect it won't be too far behind their other branches.

Click here to read the Canon-Europe press release.




07-20-2004

Nikon Posts Firmware Update for D2H SLR

Nikon USA has today posted the D2H firmware update 2.0.0 which adds numerous new features and improvements including:

  • Autofocus performance has been improved.
  • Auto white balance performance has been improved.
  • A new option, FPS rate + AF, has been added to CSM MENU a1 AF-C mode priority.
  • Focus area display in Group dynamic-AF mode has been changed.
  • The label for CSM MENU a3 has been changed from Group dynamic AF to Pattern selection in Group Dynamic AF. The options available for this setting have also been changed.
  • The camera now supports CompactFlash cards with a capacity greater than 4GB.
  • The image playback zoom ratio has been increased. The image display can be enlarged up to 30 X (for large size images) or up to 23 X (for medium size images) with playback zoom.
Please follow the link above to read about the other 13 changes or improvements that we haven't listed here!   Click here to read our complete Nikon D2H user review.



07-18-2004

Fantasea Adds CP-5 Underwater Housing for Nikon Coolpix 5200 / 4200

Fantasea Line, distributor of the world's most popular and affordable underwater photographic products, has announced the addition of a new underwater camera housing, the Fantasea CP-5, for the Nikon Coolpix 4200 and Coolpix 5200 digital cameras.

The Fantasea CP-5 housings, like the CP-3N, are rated to a maximum working depth of 130’/40m underwater. It is an injection molded plastic housing, constructed to take the rigorous environments that underwater photographers and outdoor photographers experience, and will protect digital cameras in these demanding activities. The housing offers push button controls that will provide access to the cameras most important controls and features. The CP-5 is a compact ergonomic design for easy one-hand shooting. Its operation is equally simple, as photographers need only to open and close one latch to insert the camera into place, without any mounts, screws, or gear alignments to bother with before shooting.

The suggested retail price of the CP-5 is $149.95, and includes a pre-paid flood insurance policy for one year. In the event of accidental water leakage, the Coolpix camera inside is covered and will be replaced. As with the CP-3N housing, this attractive additional protection provides the ultimate peace of mind for photographers, who want to be sure their cameras are adequately and safely protected during use in these rugged environments.




07-17-2004

Zenon MagneFlash 68Plus Review Posted

Last year we reviewed Zenon's 5x7" flat panel flash unit, this year they have come out with an even larger 6x8" flat panel flash with greater range. Check out our Zenon MagneFlash 68Plus review and see the sample photos. This is a great flash for taking product photos of small to medium sized objects, especially reflective things. Its evenly diffused light is also great for portraits or as a daylight fill flash. It can operate as a slave flash with an internal IR sensor or it can be triggered by PC sync cable or from a flash hot shoe.




07-16-2004

Enter the 2004 Lumix Award Photo Competition

(This contest is limited to those living in the E.U. countries only, sorry.)
Enter the Lumix Award digital photography competition for a chance to win a VIP trip of a lifetime to the Monaco Grand Prix and Lumix digital cameras.

This year's theme 'Perfect Place' explores the relationship between the individual and their environment. It could be an environment that is special to you. What is your relationship to it? Why is it special? It's open to your own interpretation and can be as broad as you feel appropriate.

The Lumix Award is open for 6 months from the 1st June 2004 to 30th November 2004 and will be judged by a panel of respected professional photographers in December 2004. All photographs entered must be taken with a digital camera.




07-16-2004

LetsGoDigital Kicks Off with a French Edition and Extra Features



EMST, 16 July 2004: LetsGoDigital, the multilingual online magazine about digital imaging, is proud to announce a French edition of its website. French speaking readers and French natives are now able to get the latest news about what is happening in the world of digital imaging by clicking on www.letsgodigital.fr. By reaching out to the French speaking audience LetsGoDigital considerably expands the effect on its publications. According to Dennis Hissink, editor of LetsGoDigital UK and Dutch edition: "By investing in a new French edition we are able to bring the daily news in an extra language beside the already existing editions of LetsGoDigital; English, Dutch and Spanish."

Raphaël Lessinger, editor of LetsGoDigital France: "By kicking of a French edition we will be able to reach a possible figure of millions of French speaking readers. For France it will be a welcome news source for those who want to know the latest of Digital Imaging."

Beside expanding the website with a French edition LetsGoDigital also added new and upgraded existing items within the website. New functionalities like the QuickTabs with short and up-to-date news from the world of Internet, print a review, enhanced comparison of digital cameras directly out of the LetsGoDigital's database of nearly 700 cameras, search a camera by selecting certain features, a new image gallery and numerous small, but important updates within the content management system. Beside upgrading on the software side, we have upgraded the internal memory of our own servers to ensure stability.

Beside the online magazine the team of LetsGoDigital also maintains websites like Photokina-show.com, pma-show.com, cebit-show.com, ifa-show.com and ces-show.com where the reports of those events are published. Expect a special and extensive report of the upcoming Photokina event (28 September - October 3, 2004), held in Cologne, Germany.

The team of LetsGoDigital members are: Mark Peters, Dennis Hissink, Toni Fernandez, Raphaël Lessinger, José Snijders and Koert Buijze.




07-16-2004

Megapixel.net Gets Facelift and Frequent Updates

Our friends to the north have given their bilingual Megapixel.net web site a facelift, added a News section and have ceased being a "monthly" publication. Site updates will be made every couple of days and new camera reviews will be posted as soon as they are finished. The Megapixel.net site can be viewed in English or French language versions. We wish them good luck as always!




07-15-2004

Noise Ninja 2.0 Released for Mac OS X and Windows

Austin, Texas (June 15, 2004) -- Noise Ninja 2.0, the latest generation of PictureCode's popular Noise Ninja image noise removal software, was officially released today. Notably, the new version is available for both Macintosh OS X and Windows platforms. With the release of Noise Ninja 2.0, the Macintosh community can, for the first time, utilize state-of-the-art noise reduction in an efficient, native application. This allows a large number of professional photographers and news organizations to fill a significant gap in the digital workflow. Moreover, Noise Ninja 2.0 has been optimized to exploit high-performance capabilities of the PowerPC architecture.

Windows users will enjoy a range of improvements over Noise Ninja 1. The list of enhancements includes a threefold improvement in filtering speed, simplified automatic profiling, multiprocessor support, and numerous user interface refinements.

Noise Ninja 2.0 is available in two editions. The Professional edition, priced at US$69, supports 16-bit file output, batch processing, and multiprocessor support. The Home edition is priced at US$29, and it supports 8-bit output, processing of individual images, and single-processor execution. Customers of Noise Ninja 1 can upgrade to the same edition of Noise Ninja 2.0 free of charge. A new license key is required and can be requested by email. For more information visit www.picturecode.com.




07-15-2004

Shortcut PhotoClean - Repair & Improve Digital Photos

ARNHEM, Jul 15, 2004 -- Shortcut just put the finishing touch to a new version of their Windows and Mac OS software product PhotoClean. Many improvements and additions are included with the new release.

Shortcut PhotoClean is an extensive tool specialized in photo repair and improvement. Any photo made with a digital camera has room for improvement. PhotoClean enables you to quickly and effectively remove shadows, noise, JPEG artifacts, red-eyes, and dead pixels, correct colors and exposure, repair skin, sharpen, and a lot more. Even photos from mobile phones (with built-in camera functionality) can be upgraded into very acceptable printouts with ease. Don't let the low price mislead you, PhotoClean competes among the highest quality standards and is superbly fit for professionals.

The new version includes a completely redesigned interface and eight new reparation filters, while several existing filters have been improved. The update is - as always - free for registered users. PhotoClean sells for $49, a trial version can be downloaded at www.trulyphotomagic.com.




07-13-2004

Epson Announces Stylus CX4600 All-in-One Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- July 13, 2004 -- Epson Stylus CX4600 all-in-one features Epson’s exclusive water/fade/smudge-resistant DURABrite inks and offers an optimum balance of image quality and speed to satisfy the imaging needs of busy households, personal offices and today’s ever-growing number of beginning to intermediate-level digital photographers. With a suggested retail price of $149 ($129 following a $20 rebate), the Stylus CX4600 triples as a scanner, photo printer, and black and color copier, in a new space-saving design that is only 6.7 inches tall and 13.5 inches wide. Advanced features include Epson’s photo restoration technology, memory card slots, quiet operation and an easy-to- navigate control panel.

Read the full Epson press release




07-12-2004

Olympus C-770 UltraZoom and Stylus Digital 410 Reviews Posted

Just posted is the Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom review, Olympus' top of the line 4-megapixel, 10x super zoom camera. It's sleek, stylish and durable thanks to a metal body and it gets you really close to the action with its 38-380mm (35mm equivalent) zoom lens. It also captures VGA (640x480) resolution movies with audio in either regular QuickTime MOV format or the space saving MPEG4 compressed format. For summer sports or vacation photos it might be just what you're looking for.

And for those who don't mind the weather, the Olympus Stylus Digital 410 can get as wet as you when it rains and still function perfectly. This palm-sized 4-megapixel camera is housed in a very durable and stylish metal body and is packed with a full 3x optical zoom lens and robust image processing hardware. There's 10 automatic modes accessible via its "virtual mode dial" that help you make great pictures no matter what the shot calls for. It's not an underwater camera but it will easily survive the beach, the jetski, the rain storm, snowstorm or whatever. And both the C-770UZ and Stylus 410 are PictBridge compatible for direct-USB printing to many modern photo inkjet printers.




07-12-2004

ExpoDisc Unveils New Color Balance Filter

MORGAN HILL, CA, – ExpoDisc Inc., the pioneer in diffusion filters that allow photographers to fine-tune color balance and get accurate exposures without meters, gray cards or white cards, today announced the ExpoDisc Digital White Balance Filter. The new ExpoDisc filter is designed for professional photographers and videographers, and serious amateurs alike.

The ExpoDisc Digital WB Filter is, in effect, a gray card in a lens cap, without all the hassles and inconsistencies of a gray card. It lets you read and set white balance before shooting, thus eliminating the need for post-capture color adjustments. The ExpoDisc filter works with film, digital cameras and digital video, and is available in six standard sizes from 58mm to 82mm.

The new ExpoDisc filter makes it possible to give the same, consistent white balance reference to an entire body of photographic work. It also allows photographers to set white balance in mixed lighting conditions. The snap-on disc is a neutral diffusion filter that gathers ambient light from 180° and passively transmits 18% of it through to your camera’s light meter.

Each filter comes with a card recording its exact density and color balance (+/- 3% of absolute neutral) as noted on the color analyzer for near perfect color balance. This results in a level of accuracy that is far more neutral than commercial gray cards, which can often be well off the beam. List prices range from $79.95 to $159.95. The web site is www.expodisc.com.




07-12-2004

Epson Announces L-410 4-Megapixel Digital Camera

Epson America, Inc. is once again focusing its efforts on capturing important memories with the introduction of the EPSON PhotoPC L-410. The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 is a compact, four megapixel digital camera that incorporates high-speed continuous shooting, records video clips and offers a new creative feature called PRINT Image Framer, which adds fun frames to any photo with a touch of a button.

The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 is ideal for anyone that wants to capture important memories easily and quickly, without having to compromise quality. In addition to its 4.0 megapixel CCD sensor, this compact and sleek camera includes a 3x optical zoom and a 3x digital zoom, a 1.5 inch high-quality LCD screen and PRINT Image Matching II technology.

Read the full Epson press release




07-12-2004

Canon Launches New Pixma Brand For Line of Single Function and All-In-One Photo Inkjet Printers

Read our exclusive Canon Pixma iP4000 review


LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., July 12 — PIXMA® — a new global brand unifying Canon's single function inkjet printer and all-in-one lines — appears for the first time today on the company's four new entry-level models, the PIXMA iP1500, iP2000, iP3000 and iP4000 desktop photo printers.

PIXMA represents Canon's next steps in the evolution of photo printing: a state-of-the-art synthesis of the high quality and great speed. The word PIXMA combines "Pixel," or the core of quality digital images, and "Maximum" symbolizing the highest standard of performance. The "X" joining the two signifies the critical link between input and output highly sought by most photo consumers today.

Canon's new PIXMA iP1500, iP2000, iP3000 and iP4000 inkjet photo printers offer consumers price performance for print quality that was until recently, only available in dedicated six-ink photo printers. The new printers will be available in stores this August with estimated selling prices ranging from $49.99 — $149.99*.

Read the full Canon press release




07-10-2004

Sony Canada Giving Away iNova eBooks For Free

Sony Canada is giving away a full package copy of "The Sony Advanced Cyber-shot eBook, Version 2.0" with every purchase of a Sony DSC-F717, DSC-V1 and DSC-F828 from now until the end of September. The eBook on CD is a $65.95 CAD value ($49.95 US) and includes the special color charts, color booklet, translucent case and upgrade privileges for future editions.

The Sony eBook is the work of author Peter iNova and arrives on CD with over 300 full color pages with chapters on camera operation for each model, basic, intermediate and advanced photographic science and artistic instruction, photographic problem solving, self-guided photographic assignments and instruction on printing and special effects. Many eBook images are interactive with animation and imbedded movies right in the PDF pages.

Included on the CD are the eBook plus over 300 special iNovaFX Photoshop Actions that correct image errors, transcend image limitations, add artistic enhancements, produce special effects and prepare images for custom printing. Plus a number of test images, Photoshop custom curves and demo software including Photoshop 6 for both Windows and Macintosh, PhotoRescue to retrieve lost images on cards that have been erased or formatted and 20/20 MD software to help improve images. Also included are the latest Adobe Readers for Windows and Mac, making the eBook immediately readable on virtually any computer.

The same Sony eBook is available to viewers of this website everywhere else in the world with special discounted shipping of $6.50 off (making delivery free in the USA). Click here to order!




07-10-2004

Canon-Europe Releases EOS Viewer Utility for EOS 10D, D30, D60, EOS 300D / Digital Rebel SLR Cameras

Canon's EOS Viewer Utility is new software for EOS Digital SLR Cameras (10D, D30, D60, EOS 300D / Digital Rebel), that replaces the former 'FileViewer Utility'.

Improvements in the new EOS Viewer Utility:

  • A major revision has been made to the image processing and now preview display is approximately twice as fast as in the File Viewer Utility.
  • Improved user interface for better operability
    • Preview window is separated from thumbnails and multiple (up to 6) previews can be opened.
    • RAW Development Parameters have been changed from tool buttons to a floating tool palette.
    • Improved operability when specifying multiple development conditions.
  • New functions for color management
    • Color spaces compatible with color management (sRGB / Adobe RGB)
    • ICC Profile is automatically attached when saved as TIFF iamge file.

To install EOS Viewer Utility it is required that one of the following software application is already installed on your system: RAW Image Converter v2.x or FileViewer Utility v1.x - v1.3




07-08-2004

Fujifilm Studiomaster PRO 3.0 Boosts Professional Photographers' Productivity

VALHALLA, NY, July 7, 2004 - As professional photographers manage millions of pictures this busy summer season, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. Inc., announces a new version of its Studiomaster PRO image presentation, editing and ordering software designed to increase workflow efficiencies for photographers and labs. With over 70 years of imaging know-how and close ties to the professional market, Fujifilm understands photographers' needs to save time and money, while maintaining creative control - and Studiomaster PRO 3.0 does just that.

With Studiomaster PRO 3.0, wedding and portrait photographers can more easily preview and edit images, quickly create and present professional albums to clients and efficiently send print orders to their lab. Based on feedback from previous versions, Fujifilm enhanced many features and added new functionality to Studiomaster PRO so photographers can spend more time behind the lens, instead of in front of the computer.

From network functionality and archiving capabilities, to new album views and custom logos, Studiomaster PRO 3.0's new design significantly increases ease of use and gives photographers greater flexibility to expand their business. For example, the new slide show presents photographers with a new revenue stream, as it can now be exported, set to music, burned to a CD and sold to clients.

Studiomaster PRO 3.0 is currently available at a suggested list price of $399. The software is available for a 30-day free trial at www.fujifilm.com/studiomasterpro. Please visit the site for more information about Studiomaster PRO Version 3.0, a complete list of participating labs and for an online demonstration.




07-07-2004

Sony Announces DCR-HC1000 3-CCD Megapixel Minidv Handycam Camcorder

SAN DIEGO, July 7, 2004 — Advancing the category it created, Sony today unveiled a three-CCD camcorder with an innovative, multi-angle handle and state-of-the-art optics. At less than two pounds, the super-compact DCR-HC1000 MiniDV Handycam camcorder features Sony's three-chip, one-megapixel Advanced HAD™ progressive scan CCD technology. And for the first time on a 3-CCD camcorder, high-quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T* optics have been incorporated for improved sharpness and resolution, along with higher contrast.

Read the full DCR-HC1000 press release




07-07-2004

Konica Minolta Announces DiMAGE Z3 - Four Megapixel, 12x Zoom with Anti-Shake

Mahwah, NJ (July 7, 2004) – Konica Minolta introduces a new addition to the Z-series of digital cameras – the DiMAGE Z3. With Konica Minolta’s unique CCD-shift Anti-Shake System accompanying the camera’s built-in 12x optical zoom lens, the stylish DiMAGE Z3 provides photographers of all levels with very steady and sharp hand-held telephoto shots. Its speed also enables photographers to get those action shots right away with Rapid Autofocus (AF) – the fastest auto focus in its class.

Read the full Z3 press release




07-07-2004

Konica Minolta Announces DiMAGE Z10 - Affordable Three Megapixel, 8x Zoom

Mahwah, NJ (July 7, 2004) – Konica Minolta introduces an affordable new addition to the Z- series of digital cameras – the DiMAGE Z10. Featuring a fastest-in-class startup time of 0.5 seconds, built-in 8x optical zoom lens, fast and reliable autofocusing with Predictive Focus Control, and an energy efficient design that gives photographers up to 500 frames with the included AA alkaline batteries, the new DiMAGE Z10 is a convenient, fun and easy to use digital camera.

Read the full Z10 press release




07-07-2004

Konica Minolta Announces DiMAGE X50 - Super Compact Five Megapixel Camera with Two-Inch LCD

Mahwah, NJ (July 7, 2004) – Konica Minolta introduces the new DiMAGE X50 5-megapixel digital camera that takes the DiMAGE X series’ concept of “thin, fast and stylish” and adds increased speed. Compact and lightweight enough to take anywhere and stylish enough to show everyone, the DiMAGE X50 adds the fastest-in-class* startup time, 2.8x non-protruding optical zoom, 5-megapixel CCD, and large 2-inch LCD, to a high quality digital camera in a sleek, compact package.

Read the full X50 press release




07-07-2004

Digital Photography Workshop Cruise Sailing To Mexican Riviera In December

An 8-day Digital Photography & Imaging Cruise featuring workshops for beginning and intermediate photographers will embark from San Diego on December 3, 2004, aboard Carnival's luxury superliner SPIRIT. The cruise is the fifth of a highly successful series offering instruction on photodigital technologies in a relaxed learning environment. Scheduled ports of call include Acapulco, Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa, and Manzanillo, a blend of new and old Mexico.

Enrollment is limited to 30 to allow each attendee to receive personalized instruction from a team of professionals led by Arthur H. Bleich, award-winning photographer, digital photography expert, educator, and Feature Editor of Digital Camera Magazine. Other instructors are Judy Mandolf, master digital still life photographer and Photoshop expert, and Royce Bair, an illustrative and advertising photographer who heads a stock photo agency and is an authority on digital inkjet printing.

The workshop schedule features digital photography lectures and demonstrations, Photoshop sessions, and picture critiquing of work shot both onboard and ashore. Each workshop attendee will also receive hardware and software valued at more than $600 from participating sponsors. Cost of the workshop cruise starts at $1,995 with non-attendee companions paying less than half. Information: www.dpcorner.com/cruise and 800-652-2267




07-06-2004

New EPSON Stylus C66 and C86 Ink Jet Printers Offer Vivid, Long-Lasting Output with Fast Print Speeds

LONG BEACH, Calif.--July 6, 2004-- Epson America, Inc. is adding two new all-purpose printers to its award-winning product line that deliver fast print speeds and incredible print quality at affordable prices. Replacing the award-winning EPSON Stylus C64 and C84, the EPSON Stylus(R) C66 and C86 produce text, documents and beautiful frame-ready borderless photographs, and are available for estimated street prices of $69 and $99, respectively.

Both printers feature Epson's exclusive and award-winning DURABrite inks, delivering fade- resistant, water-resistant and smudge-resistant results to preserve cherished photos and important documents. The EPSON Stylus C66 and C86 offer up to 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi with variable sized droplets to ensure incredible quality and detail, as well as a convenient and cost-effective individual ink cartridge system with true black printing on glossy media for more realistic and sharper images.

Read the full Epson press release




07-06-2004

Qpict 6.1 Introduced - Over 40 New Features Added

MALMÖ, Sweden--July 6, 2004--RL Development today announced immediate availability of QPict Media Asset Management 6.1. QPict 6.1 is a major update to the popular tool for viewing, organizing, searching and batch processing media files. Along with major improvements in RAW file support, QPict 6.1 includes more than 40 new features.

QPict offers a very attractive and inexpensive way to view, organize, search and batch process all your media files. Our media database engine supports common standards such as IPTC, XML and EXIF and supports many different media file formats including images, movie clips, fonts, RAW images and sounds. QPict is equally well suited for professional and home usage.

QPict 6.1 is available now for $35 (US) a single user license and $300 (US) for a site license. QPict 6.1 is a free upgrade for existing customers of QPict 6. Qpict runs on any Macintosh® computer with PowerPC G3, G4 or G5 processors, running Mac OS X v10.1.5 or later.









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