Kodak Press Release 04/03/04

Kodak Professional’s Venerable TRI-X Black-and-White Film Celebrates 50 Years of Unparalleled Popularity and Quality Film Revered by World?s Elite Photographers, Industry Experts, and Students

FOCUS ON IMAGING, 22nd February 2004 - TRI-X Film has, in the fifty years of its existence, achieved iconic status in the photographic industry crossing boundaries of all applications and types of photographers - commercial, nature, fine art, portraiture, editorial students - and remains Kodak?s largest-selling black-and-white film.

“Fifty years ago, TRI-X Film created a class of its own with its speed and unique look. Today, it stands alone,” said Myriam Quinones, Product Manager, Professional Film Capture Products. “Whether a photographer wants to convey power, beauty, intensity or grace all in the absence of colour, TRI-X Film captures it like no other. The look of TRI-X Film is unparalleled, and it is the black-and-white choice of many professional photographers.”

Kodak Press Release 04/03/04

Kodak Drives Category Innovation with Consumer Film and Single Use Cameras

Enhanced KODAK High Definition Single Use Cameras and KODAK ULTRA MAX Film Deliver Premium Benefits to Consumers

FOCUS ON IMAGING, February 22nd 2004 - Kodak has announced enhancements to its consumer portfolio with improved KODAK High Definition and KODAK ULTRA MAX Film platforms to deliver key consumer benefits, including enhanced clarity and versatility in a multitude of film formats.

This announcement underscores the company’s commitment to producing the world?s highest quality film. These portfolio enhancements build upon the success of recent innovations such as KODAK High Definition Film, and will become widely available in spring 2004.

Kodak estimates that around 90 million rolls of film will be used this year to capture images. Kodak?s enhanced portfolio recognizes this, providing tangible benefits to consumers - offering clearer and more flexible images from single use cameras and film.

Lastolite Press Release 03/03/04

The new Ezybalance is the latest collapsible from Lastolite’s award-winning range of photographic accessories. The multipurpose Ezybalance will aid a number of functions, including exposure measurement, contrast measurement, colour balancing and the setting of white balance, making it the ultimate accessory for today’s modern photographer.
The double-sided Ezybalance has been specially designed to provide better colour balancing of negative and positive materials under a range of natural and artificial light conditions. The completely neutral 18% grey side is ideal for accurate exposure measurements with handheld light meters and in-camera TTL meters, whilst the white side is designed for lighting contrast measurement and the setting of digital and video white balance.

Lensbabies, LLC Press Release 03/03/04

Lensbabies, LLC, introduce The Original Lensbaby, a flexible camera lens that creates a ‘sweet spot’ area of focus that photographers can move around the image area by bending the flexible lens tubing. The Original Lensbaby brings the imperfect Holga look to digital and film SLR photography, but with greater versatility and new effects. While Lensbabies have broad appeal, the unique imagery is particularly attractive to portrait, wedding, product, and fashion photographers.

The Original Lensbaby is available for sale now at www.lensbabies.com for $96.

An image created by a Lensbaby has a circular area of sharp focus. The photographer can move that in-focus area by bending the flexible lens tubing in any direction. The farther from this sharp area, the greater the blurring and prismatic color distortions. Photographers can control the size of the sharp area and the overall level of blur by using one of four aperture settings: f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, and f/8.

“The beauty of these lenses is in their calculated imperfection,” said Lensbabies founder and professional photographer Craig Strong. Strong invented the Lensbaby in an effort to create a digital equivalent to his Holga camera.

Leica Press Release 01/03/04

LEICAVIT-M now also available with black chrome finish

Leica Camera AG, Solms is now offering customers of its LEICAVIT-M - a mechanical, battery-independent accessory for fast film winding - the alternative of a black chrome finish. This is in response to many requests of customers who have a black chrome model of the LEICA M7, LEICA M6TTL, LEICA M6, LEICA M4-P and LEICA M4-2 and would like to add this accessory to their outfit.

The LEICAVIT-M harmonizes perfectly with the LEICA M camera, making it only nine millimeters higher. The LEICAVIT-M is attached to the camera instead of the base plate. The easy-grip position of the winding lever under the camera permits fast, low-noise film transport without the photographer having to take his eye away from the camera.

This gives the user the possibility of reacting even more flexibly to spontaneous photographic situations.

Further information on the LEICAVIT-M
www.leica-camera.com

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG ADDS 1350Ti TO ITS POPULAR MAXIMA LINE OF 35MM POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERAS

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Maxima 1350Ti fully automatic 35mm point-and-shoot camera. The new camera features a 38-135mm Samsung SHD (Super High Definition) lens with aspherical elements for extra sharpness and a built-in flash with a maximum range of 37.7 ft with ISO 400 film. The camera covers a wide range of focal lengths and works perfectly for shooting any subject—indoors or out.  The built in Quartz Date feature offers advanced imprinting capabilities, allowing the user to record the date and time of every photo right on the negative.  With an approximate street price of $99.99, the Samsung Maxima 1350Ti camera combines affordability and ease-of-use with outstanding image quality.

“Despite the tremendous growth of digital photography, many consumers still want the familiarity and convenience of a 35mm, point and shoot camera,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Camera. “Samsung has long been a leader in providing top quality, affordable products for those consumers, and will continue to do so as long as the demand exists.”

Konica Minolta Press Release 12/02/04

Konica Minolta Zoom 150c/Zoom 80c: Slim, Light, and Versatile Cameras

Langenhagen, February, 2004

Konica Minolta is pleased to introduce the two new 35mm compact cameras excelling in portability and compact size-the 38-150mm 4X zoom equipped Zoom 150c and the 35-80mm 2.3X zoom equipped Zoom 80c.

The Zoom 150c and the Zoom 80c afford freedom of photographic expression through their easy to operate compact size, each with a zoom lenses ideal for capturing everything from unforgettable scenery to the most subtle expressions of facial close-ups.

Both cameras were designed to be optimal for family use with their fun-to-use operation and functions enabling an extensive the photographic world. Slim, easy to carry and easy to use for the whole family, they will want to always take one with them wherever they go.

POLAROID UNVEILS ALL-NEW INSTANT CAMERA LINE DESIGNED FOR TODAY’S CONSUMER AND BUSINESS IMAGING PROFESSIONAL

- New Polaroid Cameras Adopt New Technology for Even Better In-the-Moment Image Capture -

LAS VEGAS and WALTHAM, Mass., - February 12, 2004 - Polaroid Corporation will debut its fresh and innovative line of new instant cameras at the 2004 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) International Annual Convention and Trade Show, February 12-15 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. From classic to advanced, the new Polaroid camera line continues the company’s technology heritage of delivering images in the moment by offering a wide range of stylish and compact cameras. The all-new line features four Polaroid One600 instant cameras, including the One600 Classic, One600 Ultra, One600 Pro and One600 JobPro, along with the fashionable and compact re-designed iZone 200 instant camera for teens and the Image1200 for high-end users.

“Given the popularity of the Polaroid One introduced a year ago, we wanted to build on that success and expand the instant camera line. The new expanded line of cameras brings fresh innovations for more customers to experience or re-experience the value of instant photography,” stated Jeff Hopper, vice president and chief marketing officer, Polaroid Corporation. “Nothing captures the moment `now’ like a Polaroid picture. And, with our new camera offerings, consumers and business users alike can capture high quality, vivid images instantly for work or for play.”

Polaroid Press Release 12/02/04

POLAROID SHOWCASES NEW PROFESSIONAL MEDIUM FORMAT INSTANT FILM LINE

- Polaroid Type 80 Series Presents Five New Film Emulsions Offering Less Wasted Space,
Lower Cost And Superior Esthetics -

LAS VEGAS and WALTHAM, Mass., - February 12, 2004 - Polaroid Corporation this week will showcase its technologically advanced Polaroid Type 80 series of professional medium format films at the 2004 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) International Annual Convention and Trade Show, February 12-15 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Featuring both black and white and color pack films, the new Type 80 line offers professional photographers a high-quality, cost-effective alternative to other proofing film formats. Additionally, Polaroid has teamed up with NPC Photo Division to develop a new camera back that accepts the Type 80 line, which also will be displayed at the show.

“The new Polaroid Type 80 films are a better match for the medium-format size of conventional films,” stated Stuart Strong, senior marketing manager, professional photography, Polaroid Corporation. “We are confident that commercial, social and portrait photographers will come to rely on the accuracy, consistency and quality of these new films, whether they are being used for proofing, fine art or final art.”

Editor’s Note: This camera is known as the Dynax 60 in the UK and Europe

Konica Minolta USA Press Release 12/02/04

KONICA MINOLTA INTRODUCES THE NEW MAXXUM 70 35MM SINGLE-LENS REFLEX CAMERA

Fully featured compact SLR features high-performance autofocusing, state-of-the-art exposure metering, and a wide range of exposure control modes at an affordable price

Las Vegas, NV (February 12, 2004) - Konica Minolta introduces today a new stylish, fully featured and very affordable 35mm Single-Lens Reflex camera - the Maxxum 70. Featuring a Wide Center-Cross 9-Point autofocusing (AF) Sensor for increased focusing confidence, Multi-dimensional Predictive Focus Control for moving subjects, Direct Manual Focus (DMF) for fine-tuning focusing, and a continuous advance speed of 3 frames per second*1, this camera is perfect for both novices and enthusiasts alike.

“The new easy-to-use Konica Minolta Maxxum 70 brings back the thrill of SLR photography,” said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta’s Camera Division. “The Maxxum 70 is the perfect SLR camera for photographers who want to have fun while learning about photography. And in terms of price, functionality, quality, and reliability, the Maxxum 70 is in a class by itself.”

Editor’s Note: This camera is known as the Dynax 40 in the UK and Europe

Konica Minolta USA Press Release 12/02/04

KONICA MINOLTA INTRODUCES THE NEW MAXXUM 50 35MM SINGLE-LENS REFLEX CAMERA

Fully automatic operation provides the point-and-shoot simplicity that the beginning photographer depends on

Las Vegas, NV (February 12, 2004) - Konica Minolta introduces today an affordable new entry level 35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) camera - the Maxxum 50. Featuring a Wide 3-Point autofocusing (AF) System for increased focusing confidence, Predictive Focus Control for moving subjects, Full-Auto Program for no-fuss shooting, and Subject Program Selection for the best photos in any situation or lighting, this film camera is ideal for photographer of all skill levels.

“Konica Minolta’s easy-to-use new Maxxum 50 provides outstanding image quality with the added versatility of our line of high quality interchangeable lenses,” said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta’s Camera Division. “With the introduction of this new camera Konica Minolta has accomplished what everyone said couldn’t be done?combined the high image quality of SLR photography at a very affordable price.”

Fujifilm Press Release 10/02/04

FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES BOLD ADDITION TO POPULAR Q1 LINE

Q1 Zoom offers unique design, 2x zoom for stylish picture-taking anytime

PMA, LAS VEGAS February 10, 2004 - Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. today unveiled a bold new addition to its popular Q1 camera line. The fashionable, fun Q1 Zoom camera features a 2x zoom lens (22-44mm) and is offered in two color combinations: silver with black or silver with blue. In addition, the Q1 Zoom offers fully automatic features such as auto focus, auto flash and auto winding, while using APS film.

“The Q1’s fun design and varied color palette have captured the imagination of our consumers, allowing them to express themselves both through photography and fashion,” said Margaret Toub, Film Camera Product Manager, Photo Imaging Division, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. “Now, the Q1 Zoom offers consumers even greater photo-taking options while maintaining the same eye-catching design, in attractive new color palettes.”

Fujifilm Press Release 10/02/04

FUJIFILM REVEALS THREE POWERFUL NEW 35MM CAMERAS

Proprietary drop-in loading for picture-taking on the go combine with Fujifilm’s renowned color quality to create best-possible images

PMA, LAS VEGAS, February 10, 2004 - Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. today announced three exciting new 35mm cameras. The new Zoom Date 60W features a wide-angle zoom lens, while the new Zoom Date 120V and Zoom Date 135V offer new drop-in film loading for an even easier picture-taking experience.

“We’re pleased to make picture-taking even easier with our new drop-in loading technology in the Zoom Date 120V and Zoom Date135V,” said Margaret Toub, Product Manager, Photo Imaging Division, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. “In addition, the Zoom Date 60W features a wide-angle lens, demonstrating Fujifilm’s commitment to best-quality photography at all levels.”

Canon USA Press Release 09/02/04

CANON’S NEW SURE SHOT 150u CAMERA PUTS MORE FUN, FEATURES AND AFFORDABILITY IN COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT, EASY-TO-USE POINT & SHOOT

New Pocket-Sized 35MM Point & Shoot Camera for Price Point Savvy, Quality-Conscious Consumers

LAS VEGAS (PMA, BOOTH # E11), Feb. 9, 2004 - Shooting primo pictures with the new Canon Sure Shot 150u camera is the absolute soul of simplicity. Whether capturing for posterity baby?s first haircut or any of a thousand other meaningful milestones, the Sure Shot 150u camera ensures that Moms and Dads, doting Grandparents and any other member of the extended family can focus on snapping a phenomenal photo without worrying about the picture taking process. Indeed, its outwardly simple design is literally a cover for inner workings so smart that the Sure Shot 150u camera captures brilliant images with little more than a click of the shutter button.

With its sleek lines, uncluttered instrumentation, smooth 3.9x, 38-150 mm optical zoom lens and a light and durable aluminum case packed with a flock of features, this newest entrant into the line of Sure Shot u-series lens shutter cameras arrives in stores this April with an estimated selling price under $150.

Canon USA Press Release 09/02/04

CANON’S NEW EOS ELAN 7N/7NE 35MM SLR CAMERAS SAVE THE BEST AND IMPROVE THE REST

LAS VEGAS (PMA, BOOTH # E11), Feb. 9, 2004 - Canon launched its new flagship advanced amateur 35mm SLR system - the EOS ELAN 7N and EOS ELAN 7NE 35mm SLR cameras. Designed to be the fastest, most responsive, innovative and intuitive cameras in their class, the new EOS ELAN 7N and EOS ELAN 7NE cameras replace the popular EOS ELAN 7 and 7E models (the ELAN 7NE model retaining the ELAN 7E?s popular Eye Controlled Focus option) and feature an autofocus system that is the fastest in its class, according to a Canon Inc. survey.

“With an ever present eye on technological advancements and our standard attention to detail, Canon has ensured that the EOS ELAN line of 35mm SLR cameras remain ‘state-of-the-science’ for discerning photo enthusiasts,” stated Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). “The advancements and upgrades that we have built in to the new EOS ELAN 7N and EOS ELAN 7NE models improve the cameras’ high quality output, facilitate the photo experience for our users, and enhance the cameras’ already enviable reputation in the photographic community.”

Lastolite Press Release 03/02/04

Micro Apollo ? More Light Control Possibilities From Lastolite.

The Micro Apollo range from Lastolite provides the ideal solution to combat the harsh lighting of flash photography that can be a problem for most photographers. Suitable for all types of photography, both indoor and outdoor, the Micro Apollo range of portable, compact light modifiers achieve studio quality light diffusion while eliminating the need for larger light boxes and softboxes. With its professional easy-to-use design, the Micro Apollo is an essential piece of equipment for weddings and all other types of social photography.

Whether using film or digital, the Micro Apollo?s results show a wider and softer diffusion than the standard integral diffuser: red-eye and hot spots are reduced meaning lower contrast, more natural looking photographs all for a very affordable price.

The lightweight, fully collapsible Micro Apollo range of light modifiers are made from durable diffusion material. They are designed to pack away easily and quickly into a camera bag and will fit most makes of hot-shoe and Metz hammerhead flash guns via Velcro fasteners.

The Micro Apollo is now available in three sizes:

Lastolite Micro Apollo 45 20 x 13 cm (8 x 5 inch) ?26.99 inc. Vat
Lastolite Micro Apollo 60 25 x 18.5 cm (10 x 7.5 inch) ?29.99 inc. Vat
Lastolite Micro Apollo XL 41 x 25 cm (16 x 10 inch) ?39.99 inc. Vat

JP Distribution distributes the Lastolite range. For any further information on the full Lastolite range please visit www.johnsons-photopia.co.uk

Fujifilm UK Press Release 20/01/04

Company boosts film camera range with four new models, and more to come in 2004

In preparation for PMA 2004 (Photo Marketing Association exhibition*) Fujifilm has today made a worldwide announcement confirming its commitment to the film market, and introducing several new 35mm and APS film cameras to its product portfolio. To read the worldwide press release, please visit: http://www.fujifilm.com/

Information and statements for the UK market
Fujifilm is defying current trends in the photography industry by announcing significant investment in film camera technology in 2004, and by adding a raft of new models to its compact film camera range ? both APS and 35mm.

Despite pressure on the conventional camera market, and with some manufacturers consolidating their R&D functions or exiting the market altogether, Fujifilm affirms that certain product categories are, in fact, exhibiting steady demand, with products such as 35mm zoom compacts, entry-level, easy-to-use fun cameras ? and certain APS models such as the Fujifilm Q1 ? showing notable resilience. On top of this, single use cameras are demonstrating remarkable growth, with sales increasing by almost 30% year on year in the UK. Consequently, Fujifilm is continuing to support the industry with the introduction of both film and digital products, with developments in film, compact cameras and single use cameras projected throughout 2004 and beyond.

Olympus Europe Press Release 08/01/04

A truly small and beautiful 35mm compact zoom
The weatherproof Olympus ?[mju:]-III 80

Hamburg, 8 January 2004 ? Constant evolution. That is the key to the phenomenal success of the Olympus ?[mju:] ? the world?s bestselling camera series. The latest addition to the range, the ?[mju:]-III 80, adds its own special stamp to the series? winning formula of high quality photo technology, a compact form and style. Its redesigned flash combines the advantages of a reduced size with excellent flash coverage. This camera can be brought along to any party, family gathering or holiday. Even when surprised by a spring shower or caught by a splash of water at the seaside, you can carry on shooting ? the weatherproof body will keep out the moisture. As with all ?[mju:] models, this one ensures great results with the minimum of fuss. It has a 3-Way Light Metering AE System for optimum exposure. The Multi-Wide Autofocus System plus a Camera Shake Indicator also help deliver perfect pictures. For the perfect gift, the ?[mju:]-III 80 is available in a kit* with everything needed to start shooting straight away.

Photographic giant Kodak is to quit making cameras that use the Advanced Photo System (APS) format, as well as reloadable cameras that use 35-millimeter film, by the end of 2004. Kodak will completely stop selling traditional film cameras in the United States, Canada and Western Europe, but will continue to sell one-time use cameras in these territories. In expanding markets such as China, India, and Latin America, Kodak will carry on selling its film-based products for the forseeable future (found via Gizmodo).

Kodak Press Release 13/01/04

Kodak to Accelerate 35mm Consumer Film Effort in Emerging Markets
ROCHESTER, Jan. 13—Eastman Kodak Company today announced that it will accelerate its 35mm consumer film efforts in growing emerging markets, one of a series of moves that represents the continued implementation of the digitally oriented growth strategy announced by the company in September.

As part of that strategy, Kodak will manage its worldwide traditional photographic business through selective investments for growth that serve customers’ needs.

“Kodak is, and will remain, committed to manufacturing and marketing the world’s highest quality film,” said Bernard Masson, President, Digital & Film Imaging Systems, and a Senior Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “Consistent with our strategy, we will focus our film investments on opportunities that provide faster and attractive returns, while reducing investments where we see unsatisfactory returns.”

Konica Minolta Press Release 08/01/04

New Dynax 60: The SLR choice for families and enthusiasts alike

Langenhagen, January 8th, 2004

Konica Minolta helps users discover the joy and fun of SLR photography with the new Dynax 60, a camera that offers the sharpest, clearest, and best images in the world of visual arts. Nothing beats an SLR camera for families who want to have fun while learning about photography. And in terms of price, functionality, quality, and reliability, nothing can touch the new Dynax 60 from Konica Minolta.

Both novices and enthusiasts will appreciate features like Wide Center-Cross 9-Point AF Sensor for increased focusing confidence, Multi-dimensional Predictive Focus Control for moving subjects, Direct Manual Focus for fine-tuning focusing, and a continuous advance speed of 3 frames per second(1). All features are accessible to beginners as well as photography veterans, so everyone can shoot like a pro.

The Dynax 60 from Konica Minolta lets users experience what taking pictures is all about in a camera that brings back the thrill of SLR photography.

The new Dynax 60 builds on the sound foundations of successful previous series, complementing proven ease-of-use and superior functionality with a wealth of additional features to satisfy even the most demanding users.

It also boasts beauty and functionality. The metallic casing is a reflection of SLR reliability and robustness. The critical control areas of the camera, such as the mode / function dials and front grip, are coated in rubber and finished to minute detail, so you can move and take pictures quickly with complete confidence of control.

In the end, though, the Dynax 60 is all about joy-the joy of owning and using a high-spec SLR camera that offers easy-to-use fun and memories for the family and a whole new level of advanced functionality for enthusiasts.