Olympus Europe Press Release 18/03/04

New version of the Olympus Studio software ready for downloading.

Hanover, 18 March 2004 - Olympus Studio, an extended version of the Olympus Viewer software which comes bundled with the Olympus E-1 camera, is now available in a new version. This latest release not only makes processing RAW image files faster, it also enables the online upgrading of the camera’s firmware.

Both the Olympus Studio and Olympus Viewer software, which were developed especially for use with the Olympus E-System camera, feature a number of functions useful in the day-to-day working routine of the professional photographer. One of the highlights is the virtual light box, which works very much like the standard light box used with film. The key difference is that after the photos have been checked, coloured sort marks may be applied. Images can even be placed together in several collections for easy retrieval at a later time. The software offers individual or batch editing of images. RAW image files can also be developed and converted to TIFF or JPEG files in batch mode. Needless to say, copying images from the camera to PC, browsing through folders or viewing single photos as well as organising and printing pictures is also possible.

DCResource have today posted their review of the recently announced Sigma SD10 digital SLR.

“While the Sigma SD10 would be a nice D-SLR if it used a traditional CCD or CMOS sensor, it’s the SD10’s Foveon X3 image sensor which really makes it stand out from the crowd. Image quality is, in a word, stunning. The resolution and detail makes your typical 3 Megapixel camera look like a toy. Don’t let the Megapixel difference scare you away from the SD10, though. All that detail that the X3 sensor captured allows you to enlarge the image and still get a nice looking image.”

Website: DCResource - Sigma SD10 Review

Imaging Resource have posted some sample images taken with a production version of the Nikon D70 digital SLR, Nikon’s new entry-level DSLR.

“Overall, I was quite impressed, based only on this brief initial contact. I found the D70’s color very appealing, and its resolution and detail rendition is first rate. Oh - and did I mention it’s great to shoot with? A final conclusion will obviously have to wait until I’ve had the chance to really pick apart its images with my standardized tests, but at first glance, I’d say Nikon has a real winner on their hands.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Nikon D70 Samples

Canon’s “EOS Digital Rebel/EOS Kiss/EOS 300D” digital SLR has sold so well that Canon have recently raised production by 25%, according to a report on Yahoo! News via Reuters:

“Ando said Canon had completed plans to boost monthly production capacity of the “EOS Kiss” by about 25 percent to 100,000 cameras in the first quarter of this year. Half of that capacity is housed in a Taiwan plant and the other half in Japan.

Canon sold 600,000 digital SLRs in 2003, capturing 70 percent of the rapidly growing market and leaving Nikon Corp (7731.T), which did not have a camera anywhere near the “EOS Kiss” model’s price range, in second place with 30 percent.”

Even more interestingly, Canon spokesman Tadaaki Ando, deputy group executive in charge of digital SLRs, strongly hinted that an even cheaper DSLR will be released in about a year’s time:

“Canon’s Ando said a lower-priced digital SLR could be about one year away.

“If it’s not this autumn, then that would probably mean next spring,” Ando said, noting the release would then be one-and-a-half years after the original “EOS Kiss.” “Development times are so much faster than they were in the film age.”

Website: Yahoo! News - “Canon Raises Output of Fast-Selling Kiss Digicam”

PENTAX to Distribute Camera Control Software for *ist D on the Internet

PENTAX Corporation is proud to announce that it will distribute the PENTAX REMOTE Assistant* camera control software to users of the PENTAX *ist D digital SLR camera via the Internet. The software can be downloaded free of charge from the PENTAX Web site (http://www.digital.pentax.co.jp) beginning on March 18, 2004, for Windows users and after mid April for Macintosh users.

The PENTAX REMOTE Assistant is designed to expand the capabilities of the PENTAX *ist D when the camera is connected via USB cable to a personal computer with the software installed. Advanced functions and user-friendly features that the software offers to *ist D users include:

Remote shutter release and interval shooting from the computer. (The interval shooting function is available only in combination with a computer.)

Direct uploading and filing of captured images onto the computer’s hard disk drive, without having to store them on the camera’s memory card.

Setting and adjustment of basic and auxiliary functions, including user-selectable custom functions, on the computer.

* This software is equivalent in English only.

According to a story over on Rob Galbraith’s site, the Nikon D70 is due to start shipping in the USA on March 18th. Apparently the D70 is already back-ordered, so unless you’ve already pre-ordered you may have to wait a while…

Website: Rob Galbraith - Nikon D70 Shipping Date

Olympus UK Press Release 12/03/04

An opportunity not to be missed!

Trade in your current camera for Olympus E-System accessories

Between the 15 March and 30 April 2004, customers who purchase the Olympus E-1 Kit (which includes E-1 body and ZUIKO Digital 14-54mm f2.8-3.5 lens) are invited to trade in any make or model of SLR equipment or digital camera (in full working order)*. They may then choose between one of four high spec accessories or ?200 cash back. In addition, these customers will receive a free one year membership to the Olympus E-Club.

The accessories to choose from are:

- FL-50 external flash system
- ZUIKO Digital ED 50mm f2.0 macro lens
- CAMEDIA P-440 photo printer
- 2GB 40X Lexar Pro series CompactFlash card

Sara Cubitt, Head of Marketing Communications of Olympus UK comments, “This opportunity emphasises our commitment to professional photographers by encouraging them to explore the creative potential of the E-System”.

The Olympus E-System has been designed to meet the demands of professional photographers and currently offers the most innovative digital SLR system on the market. The system boasts excellent image quality and flexibility, plus lenses which are much smaller and lighter than those created for analogue systems.

Further information can be found on the Olympus E-System website: www.olympus-pro.com/uk from Monday 15th March.

* NB The offer does not include 35mm compact cameras or single use cameras.

The Slovenian website e-Fotografija has posted an extensive review of the Nikon D70 digital SLR, Nikon’s new entry-level DSLR, with lots of sample images to look at. The review is available in English, so you don’t need to try and find a translation service.

Website: e-Fotografija - Nikon D70 Review

Olympus Press Release 11/03/04

Olympus E-System Development Leader receives PMDA 2004 Technical Achievement Award

Olympus is delighted to announce that Mr. Yasuo Asakura, development leader of the E-System digital SLR camera system, has been presented with the ‘2004 Technical Achievement Award’ by the Photo Imaging Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMDA). Mr. Asakura is a Group Leader in the Research and Development Department at the Imaging Systems Group of Olympus Corporation.

Mr. Asakura joined Olympus in 1981. Early in his career, he was involved in the development of the OM series of 35mm film SLR cameras and L series of 35mm film cameras. He was later appointed development group leader for the E-10 and E-20 integrated-lens digital SLR cameras. In addition to his work on these advanced, high-quality film and digital cameras, the PMDA award also honours his role as a leader in the development of the Olympus E-1 and Olympus E-System. The award was presented to Mr. Asakura at an awards dinner held on the eve of the recent PMA 2004 Annual Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas.

Established in 1939, the PMDA is an association of camera manufacturers and sales companies that plays a central role in promoting imaging industry activities. Each year, the PMDA presents awards to those who have contributed significantly to the advancement of imaging-related products, services and activities.

Sara Cubitt, Head of Marketing Communications of Olympus UK comments, “The E-1 digital SLR camera represents a union of superior optical technology and advanced digital technology, and was developed according to the most detailed design concept. The system stands at the apex of digital camera performance and we are proud that the developer of the E-System has been honoured with this prestigious award”.

The Digital Journalist contributor Chick Harrity has posted his review of the Nikon D2H digital SLR.

“Realistically it is not a perfect camera for everyone because some feel a need for more than 4.1 mega-pixels and others want to make pictures at 1600 ASA that look like they were shot with Kodachrome 25 rather than Kodachrome 200 pushed a couple of stops. However for serious news and sports shooters it is hard to beat right now.”

Website: The Digital Journalist - Nikon D2H Review

The Fred Miranda website has punblished a brief look at the new DSLR from Kodak, the 14 megapixel DCS Pro SLR/n, courtesy of Jon Canfield.

“The SLR/n now uses ISO 6 to 1600. The base setting is ISO 160. In my work with a pre-release version of the 14nx, I found that this new base setting provided exceptionally clean files, certainly on par with the earlier model at ISO 80. I have very good results with all exposure settings up to 1250. ISO 1600 is certainly usable, but will require a fairly high level of noise reduction.”

Website: Fred Miranda - Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n Brief Look

The Czech website Digineff have posted their review of the ever-popular Canon EOS 300D DSLR today.

Website: Digineff - Canon EOS 300D Review

LetsGoDigital have posted their 6-page review of the Canon EOS 300D DSLR.

“However not free of mistakes the camera delivers an astonishing image quality. The user has or gets a camera with which photo realistic final results can be made without a problem. The light weight of the camera also adds to the convenience that Canon is admired for. The camera is very easy to operate. In fact we are talking about a camera with the friendliness of a compact but the quality of a reflex.”

Website: LetsGoDigital - Canon EOS 300D Review

Charlotte K. Lowrie of MSN Photos has just posted a very detailed review of the new DSLR from Kodak, the 14 megapixel DCS Pro SLR/n.

“A year ago, I recommended buying the 14n for specific genres of photography and with caveats. This year I recommend the SLR/n as a serious contender for professionals in all categories except photojournalism, sports, and low-light/fast-action (paparazzi!) categories. I make these exceptions because the camera is not weather resistant nor is it the speediest model on the lot.”

Website: MSN Photos - Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n Review

Photographer Carsten Rasmussen has posted a couple of sample images from the new 8 megapixel professional DSLR from Canon, the EOS 1D Mark II, taken at a Canon event in Copenhagen, Denmark (found via digicamera.net).

Website: Canon EOS 1D Mark II Sample Images

HardwareZone has posted an extensive 13 page review of the Nikon D70 digital SLR. As far as I know this is the first ever completed review of Nikon’s new entry-level DSLR (please correct me if I’m wrong). Thanks to R.I. Pienaar for bringing it to my attention.

“Contrary to the silver plastic bodied Canon EOS-300D DIGITAL, the Nikon D70 looks more professional with its all black polycarbonate assemble which feels and looks almost similar to the sturdy magnesium alloy body on the Nikon D100. Its mirror slap is also much more muted as compared to the Canon EOS-300D DIGITAL though still louder than that of the Nikon D100. Towering over the Canon EOS-300D DIGITAL is the Nikon D70 with its plethora of extra functions in terms of manual control and wider range of adjustable values.”

Website: HardwareZone - Nikon D70 Review

dpmac.com has just started its review of the Nikon D70 digital SLR. The same website also has an intriguing look at how the D70 is being manufactured in Thailand.

“Many photographers (especially those who have been using Point and Shoot cameras, ask why you can not compose pictures with the LCD on a DSLR camera. There are two main reasons this function is not implemented, one the viewing and focusing abilities of a single lens reflex viefinder are far superior to an LCD screen, the second is that it would waste a lot of precious battery charge, which is needed for operating the more demanding functions of a DSLR.”

Website: dpmac.com - Nikon D70 Review

Website: dpmac.com - Nikon D70 Factory Tour

Imaging Resource have already posted their usual detailed profile of the new DSLR from Kodak, the 14 megapixel DCS Pro SLR/n, which was announced yesterday.

“Kodak’s new DSC-SLR/n digital SLR is a strong update to their previous Pro 14n model, with very similar specifications, but greatly improved performance in several key areas. The enhancement that will undoubtedly be the most welcome for prospective users is its greatly improved noise performance, thanks to a redesigned CMOS sensor chip, a change in fabrication provider, and a redesigned analog electronics board. At the same time, Kodak has improved the SLR/n’s image processing, revamped the calibration algorithms to improve responsiveness, and improved its power management. Other SLR/n enhancements include a unique long-exposure/ultra-low ISO mode that lets you capture up to 60-second exposures at ISO 6 for exceptionally low image noise and unique time-exposure creative effects.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n Preview

Konica Minolta Press Release 12/02/04

Konica Minolta Interchangeable-Lens Digital SLR Camera

Langenhagen, February, 2004

Konica Minolta is very proud to announce the development of the interchangeable-lens digital single lens reflex cameras Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital*. Both models are slated to go on sale in autumn of 2004.

The Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital will accept the Minolta A mount, compatible with the full range of Minolta AF lenses, as well as Dynax/Maxxum system accessories. Combining the best of established 35mm system photography with digital photography affords photographers the ability to more fully express themselves than ever before.

The Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital is also equipped with the same technically sophisticated and highly effective CCD Shift-type Anti-Shake function, which has earned an excellent reputation in the DiMAGE A1 (SLR- type digital camera with built-in lens). As the Anti-Shake function is built into the camera body and not the lens, it is effective for the entire range of Minolta AF lenses. Thanks to the intuitive control layout being carried over from the three-time international award winning** and popular 35mm film AF SLR camera Dynax 7/Maxxum 7, the Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital is both a user-friendly and compatible design for 35mm film SLR camera users, enabling a smooth shift over to digital. Utilizing an APS-C sized 6 mega pixel CCD and advanced image processing technology, the resulting exquisite detail from highlights to shadows will satisfy even the most demanding photographers.

Konica Minolta is committed to develop additional digital SLR camera bodies, more interchangeable lenses, and other accessories to grow with both users’ needs and the progress of technology.

The official announcement is due very soon, but Minolta Germany have already leaked the news :-) Full specs in English to be posted later…