UK Optics have annpunced the Novo Excel Pro UV filters. These water- and oil-repellent, scratch resistant, nano multi-coated filters are manufactured from 'Super White' German Schott glass, thus offering a light transmission greater than 99.3%. The new Novo Excel Pro UV filters are available in sizes ranging from 40.5mm to 86mm.

Fantasea Line have introduced a selection of products designed to enhance lighting of underwater images and videos, including LED Strobe Triggers, Fiber Optic Cables and a powerful video light. Featuring an ergonomic design and a built-in YS connector, the Radiant 3000F Video Light (pictured) offers a variety of operation modes, which make the light suitable to light a wide range of classic and creative compositions. Operation modes include flood light (100 degrees), spot light (15 degrees), red light, Ultra Violet (UV) & Blue light and two flashing modes (constant and SOS) that can serve for signaling / SOS purposes. Depth rated to 100 metres/330 feet, the Radiant 3000F makes use of 3 powerful LEDs for red light, 4 LEDs for UV & blue light, one X-PL LED for spot light and a new Cob (chip-on-board) LED array for flood light, which provides an impressively bright, wide and even beam. The FA-1 LED Strobe Trigger and the FA-2 LED Strobe Trigger  trigger underwater strobes and flashes to fire in sync with the camera using fiber optic cables, such as the Fiber Optic Cable A1 and the Fiber Optic Cable B2. Click through / read on for the details.

TH Swiss have announced the official launch of their Irix Edge series of screw-in filters, including UV & Protector, Circular Polariser and ND filters with various densities. The Irix Edge UV & Protector (€76) filter offers extraordinary light transmission thanks to its high-quality optical glass and multi-layer anti-reflective coating. Its additional waterproof Nano coating helps keeping the glass surface free of stains and water droplets. Irix UV filter also provides decent protection of the front lens under extreme circumstances. The Irix Edge Circular Polariser (€105) reduces reflections from non-metallic surfaces, emphasizes details and increases colour density of the pictures. Thanks to the slim and ultralight aluminium frame with knurled edges, filter is easy to operate through filter window and causes no vignetting on the Irix 15mm f/2.4 lens. Last but not least, the Irix Edge ND filters (€115-€117) are available in 3-stop, 5-stop, 7-stop and 10-stop versions.

LockCircle have announced their PRO M.95 system - a kit of 95mm three Front Mount Cinema Standard adapter rings - for the Zeiss Otus 28/55/85mm lenses. The PRO M.95 adapter rings are CNC machined from billet aluminium and anodised to match the lenses' surface finish. The kit also includes graphic coded front and rear caps. The PRO M.95 system is available now at prices starting from $149 + shipping.

Billingham have launched a new range of elegant travel bags. Carrying the signature Billingham logo embossed into leather on the front, these premium bags are built from weather-resistant FibreNyte canvas for exceptional durability and protection from the elements. The new Billingham Leisure Collection includes the Weekender and Overnighter bags and the Thomas briefcase/laptop bag. Each bag features solid brass fittings and is offered in a selection of classic colours with complementary leather tones, including Sage & Chocolate, Black & Tan, Khaki & Chocolate and All-Black. Designed for fast and efficient packing, the Weekender (£225) can be fully unzipped through its entire length using the strong double pullers, and the clever turnover top allows the sides to be peeled backwards completely to create the widest possible opening. Slightly smaller than the Weekender, and ideal for a short break or even as a smart gym or work bag, the compact Overnighter (£185) provides generous capacity for everyday essentials. Last but not least, the padded Thomas briefcase (£225) features multiple interior pockets to organise a host of accessories, and has been designed to accommodate most 15” laptops. All bags are available now from authorised Billingham stockists.

MindShift Gear have announced the launch of their new PhotoCross sling bags. Built to withstand the elements yet comfortable enough to wear on long days in the field, these bags stay out of the way when scrambling but offer quick camera access when ready to take the shot. They feature weatherproof zippers and abrasion-resistant materials, plus a carrying system for tripods or jackets. The PhotoCross 10 fits an ungripped DSLR and one to two lenses, plus a 10” tablet, or a compact system camera body and three to five lenses, plus a 10” tablet. The PhotoCross 13 fits an ungripped DSLR, two to four lenses, including a 70–200mm f/2.8, and some 13” laptops. The bags are available in two colour, Orange Ember and Carbon Grey.

Western Digital today expanded their line of WD branded My Passport portable drives with the redesigned My Passport Ultra drive. In addition to a new metallic look, the drive offers intuitive WD Discovery software to help consumers easily back up photos, videos and important documents shared and created across multiple social networks, cloud services and devices. In addition, the My Passport Ultra drive features 256-bit AES Hardware Encryption with WD Security software built in to help keep private content secure. With a personalised password, users can activate hardware encryption and data protection. Available in 1TB, 2TB, 3TB and 4TB versions, the My Passport Ultra drive has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $79.99/£82.99 (for the 1TB edition).

Lee Filters have just launched a new line of professional-grade neutral density filters. The new ProGlass IRND filters were originally designed for the film industry, to meet the exacting needs of the world’s leading cinematographers. Now, they are available to the stills photographer, in sizes to fit the LEE Filters Seven5, 100mm and SW150 systems. The filters, which are manufactured from 2mm-thick, optically flat glass, are available not only in strengths of two (0.6ND), three (0.9ND), four (1.2ND) and six (1.8ND) stops, but also in ultra-long 10 (3ND) and 15-stop (4.5ND) versions. Not only this, but all filters in the range – whatever their strength – are designed to be free of colour casts, with extremely accurate stop values, ensuring consistency in all shooting conditions and allowing for absolute precision when exposing images. In addition, filters in the ProGlass IRND range are designed to block both infrared and ultraviolet pollution. Prices start at £132.00 plus VAT.

The Olympus PEN E-PL8 has just won a Red Dot Design Award with its combination of form and function. Awarding the title Red Dot Award Winner 2017, the international Red Dot jury of 40 design experts stated that “the compact and lightweight PEN E-PL8 is a prime example of retro design, high grade materials and state-of-the-art technology all in one.” To further compliment the camera, Olympus commissioned high profile Berlin fashion designer Malaika Raiss to create some beautiful accessories including specially designed straps and bags. “Women are amongst the most prolific and creative visual online content creators,” says Tanja Mehler, European Marketing Manager for Olympus PEN. “They can for example appreciate the E-PL8 camera as a way to expand their creative power if they are moving up from a phone because along with its quality, it is easy to use. Or they can appreciate how small and easy-to-carry it is compared to a conventional DSLR. What was missing were good looking accessories to go with it.”

Manfrotto are running a series of activities over the summer months to help you capture the best of summer. These include weekly competitions - simply upload you photo to the competition being hosted on Manfrotto Facebook page and include the hashtag - #ManfrottoSummerReady – to be in with the chance of winning a PIXI mini tripod each week - and a new promotional offer running on selected products across the Manfrotto and Lastolite by Manfrotto ranges. The offer spans a range of products from tripods to bags and is available from all authorised Manfrotto dealers in the UK. Click through / read on for the details.

OmegaBrandess has announced the new Flexy Strap, an ultra-compact camera neck strap and wrist strap all in one. The Flexy Strap is compact and extremely comfortable thanks to the thick and soft Neoprene neck pad.  The strap cord is made using a proprietary technology allowing an elastic effect.  The result is the strap extends when carrying a camera around the neck and shortens when using as a wrist strap.  The Neoprene pad incorporates a magnetic button that allows the conversion to a very comfortable and secure wrist strap.  Made in Italy, the b-grip Flexy Strap retails for $39.99.

TH Swiss have just launched their newest product - a set of fifteen neutral density gelatin filters designed specifically for Irix lenses. Each filter is made with ultra-thin (0.1mm) high-quality film to keep the image free of optical aberrations and distortions. Thanks to the square shape and rounded corners, the filters easily fit to Irix lenses equipped with a 30x30mm rear filter slot. The Irix Egde Gelatin Filter Set is a convenient option for photographers who want to obtain a longer shutter speed with Irix 11mm f/4.0 or use an ND filter simultaneously with a screw-in polariser on the Irix 15mm f/2.4 lens. THe filters are available with three density factors: 0.6 (ND4), 0.9 (ND8) and 1.2 (ND16). The recommended reatil price is €8.45.

Gitzo today announced the Arsène Gitzhoven Traveller, which is billed as the World’s most exclusive limited-edition travel tripod. This flagship tripod is limited to 100 pieces worldwide – each with a laser engraved number on the tripod leg as well as an engraving of the owner’s signature. The Arsène Gitzhoven Traveller tripod is the very first model on the market to feature a full carbon fibre spider, making this tripod significantly lighter than conventional models. Additionally, the Arsène Gitzhoven has Gitzo’s latest Traveller Series 1 technological features, including state of the art Carbon eXact tubing and 180° leg folding mechanism for the ultimate strength, the Traveller G-lock mechanism, making it compact, strong and ergonomic, and a brand-new Centre Ball Head. The Arsène Gitzhoven Traveller tripod is presented in a highly refined, white branded chest with leather detailing containing the tripod and its accessories; the tripod’s certificate of authenticity signed by Gitzo’s CEO, and includes the name of the craftsman who created each specific piece. The limited-edition tripod is priced at £2,499.95.

Gitzo are celebrating their 100th anniversary by launching an exclusive, limited-edition travel tripod - the 100 Year Anniversary Edition. This flagship product will be available worldwide in an exclusive limited edition of only 1917 pieces, referencing Gitzo’s year of foundation, with the number of each piece laser engraved on one leg (1/1917 to 1917/1917). The tripod introduces a brand-new magnesium spider emphasised by a black finish and titanium colour details, and boasts Gitzo’s latest Traveller Series 1 technological features, including state of the art Carbon eXact tubing and 180° leg folding mechanism, the Traveller G-lock mechanism, making it compact, strong and ergonomic, together with a brand-new Centre Ball Head. Moreover, the limited-edition tripod features an ergonomic strap made of genuine Italian leather with a carbon-fibre look. The Gitzo 100 Year Anniversary Edition Traveller Tripod will be available at £1249.95. Gitzo’s centenary celebrations will also see the launch of other exclusive products that distinguish themselves through their new design and high-appeal including the ARSÈNE GITZHOVEN TRAVELLER TRIPOD, the world’s most exclusive carbon fibre travel tripod, the Centenary Bag Collection and the Fluid Gimbal Head.

Benro have unveiled their new Master Series round filters. Available in UV, Circular Polarisers, Neutral Density, and Variable Neutral Density, all Benro Master Series Round Filters feature HD optical technologies in the manufacturing process to ensure that filter surfaces are blemish-free and flat across the entire optical surface to guarantee sharp images that are free from ghosting and internal reflections. The filters feature German Schott optics, anti-IR, ultra-low-CA and waterproof multi coatings.

Vü Filters has joined Benro to produce a set of filter holders and filters for photographers. Every Benro Master Series Filter Holder is precision machined from high-quality aluminium and hand-assembled with a significant level of care and attention to detail. Their patented control ring allows for circular polarisers to rotate independently of the filter holder when they are set into place. Benro Master Series Filter Holder Systems are available in 4 sizes - 75mm, 100mm, 150mm and 170mm. To accompany the launch, the companies have also introduced a new colection of high-quality neutral density, reverse ND and graduated ND filters featuring Schott B270 optics with waterproof multi coatings, ultra-low-chromatic-aberration coatings and anti-IR coatings.

Manfrotto has announced the PIXIPano360, a remotely controlled 360° panoramic head for smartphones, compact system cameras, entry-level DSLR’s and action cameras. With real 360° head movement, the PIXIPano360 uses a photographic stitching algorithm to produce one seamless panoramic. The dedicated and intuitive app gives you full control over speed rotation and precise angle control meaning you can get the exact image or video you want to capture. The time-lapse and hyperlapse are quick and intuitive to set up, and you can also create super wide angle panoramas just by setting the width. Offering a maximum load capacity of 2kg, the Manfrotto PIXIPano360 is available for £124.95.

Manfrotto have unveiled Pro Light Bumblebee camera bag family. Designed for professional photographers and videographers who work outdoors, the Pro Light Bumblebee family is an assortment of high-performance camera backpacks and messenger bags with aesthetics and technical qualities that perfectly embody Manfrotto’s Italian heritage. The Bumblebee-230 PL backpack protects a gripped DSLR with a 70-200/2.8 lens attached and 10 extra lenses or an attached 400/2.8 with 5 extra lenses. In video configuration, it protects a disassembled modular camcorder like the Canon C100 with numerous lenses & accessories. It also fits a 17” laptop in its own padded compartment. The Bumblebee-130 PL backpack keeps a high-end CSC or a DSLR safe with a 70-200/2.8 lens attached and 8 extra lenses or an unattached 400/2.8 with 3 extra lenses. It also fits a 15” laptop in its own padded compartment. The removable Manfrotto Camera Protection System inserts safeguard equipment at the heart of the pack and keep it organised with the efficiency of a portable studio. The innovative AirSupport breathable harness and back panel, adjustable sternum support, shaped hip and waist support systems ensure a comfortable carry. Manfrotto has also added two new messenger bags, the Bumblebee M-10 PL and M-30 PL. Prices for the Bumblebee start from £109.95. The range will be available to pre order on the Manfrotto website.

Delkin announced today the newest additions to their BLACK line of ruggedised products: Delkin BLACK UHS-II (U3/V60) SD Rugged Memory Cards. Incorporating the same proprietary injection molding process used to build their original Delkin BLACK SD memory cards, Delkin BLACK UHS-II SD cards are designed to be 3 times stronger than regular SD cards and able to withstand over 45 pounds of impact. Delkin BLACK cards are dust, water and shock-proof, as well as have an extended temperature range that allows the card to perform flawlessly in environments ranging from -25°C to 85°C. Rated Video Speed Class 60 (V60) and utilising two rows of pins, Delkin BLACK UHS-II SD memory cards boast recording speeds of 100MB/s and guarantee a minimum sustained write speed of 60MB/s, allowing for simultaneous multi-file recording, such as RAW + JPEG, and ensure that data is written swiftly and safely to the card. The added ruggedness of Delkin BLACK has allowed Delkin to offer a unique built-in insurance policy for the cards, called their "48 Hour, No-Questions-Asked Replacement Guarantee". Delkin BLACK UHS-II (U3/V60) SD cards are available in capacities of 64GB and 128GB, and are sold exclusively through authorised camera stores in the US and in Europe.

Nikon's range of commemorative models and goods celebrating the company's 100th anniversary are now available to purchase. The Anniversary range, which features the 100th Anniversary logo and special finishes and details, includes Nikon’s two flagship digital SLR cameras - the D5 100th Anniversary Edition (£7,699.99 / €9,399.00) and the D500 100th Anniversary Edition (£2,599.99 / €3,199.00) -, a telephoto zoom lens - the Nikkor70-200E 100th Anniversary Edition (£3,599.99 / €4,399.00) -, a special set of three Nikkor lenses (£7,699.99 / €9,399.00), and finally, commemorative editions of three binoculars. A special collection of commemorative goods are also available, including the Nikon 100th Anniversary Crystal Creation Nikon Model I - a beautiful crystal reproduction of the first Nikon 35mm camera from 1948, £1,299.99 / €1,500.00 -, the Nikon 100th Anniversary Pin Collection, the Nikon 100th Anniversary Miniature Nikon F Camera - a 1/2-scale model of Nikon's first flagship model, £129.99 / €149.00 - and the Nikon 100th Anniversary Premium Camera Strap (£99.99 / €109.00).