Nikon UK Press Release

D70 Cashback promotion extended until the end of April 2005

Due to the immense success of the £100 cashback offer on the D70, Nikon have extended the promotion until 30th April 2005.

The Promotion
Nikon are offering customers the opportunity to claim £100 back on the price they paid in-store for the D70 digital SLR with 18-70mm DX lens.

Cashback offers are as follows:

- Get £100 cashback on the purchase of a D70 plus 18-70mm DX lens
- Get £50 cashback on the purchase of a D70 plus 28-80mm G lens
- Get £50 cashback when you purchase a D70 body

Customer claims must be received at Nikon UK by 31st May 2005

Imaging Resource have posted their first impressions of the 7.2 megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P200 digital camera.

“In the case of the Sony P200, we found that it had plenty of resolution to make sharp-looking 13x19 prints, even with a little cropping. At the largest sizes, the loss of subtle detail caused by its anti-noise processing was visible in Marti’s hair and features, but we suspect that most consumers would find the resulting prints acceptable nonetheless. Subjects with strongly contrasting detail (things like tree branches against the sky) showed no loss of resolution, producing very sharp images even at 13x19. Looking at the high-ISO shots, images from the P200 captured at ISO 400 looked a little rough when printed at 8x10, but we felt that they were acceptable when examined at normal viewing distances. (10-12 inches or so) The ISO 400 image noise was essentially invisible in prints 5x7 and smaller. Color-wise, the P200’s images looked absolutely beautiful when printed on the i9900, lush and vibrant, yet very natural-looking.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P200 Review

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DIWA member and Slovenian website e-fotografija have just posted their review of the 7 megapixel Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700.

Website: e-fotografija - Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700 Review

Website: Read my Review of the Casio Exilim Pro EX-P700

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CameraTown have reviewed the Canon PIXMA MP760 Multifunction Photo Centre, a new multifunctional printer which includes a Film Adapter Unit for 35mm film scanning, plus a a 2.5 inch colour LCD screen.

“If it’s not apparent, the Canon PIMXA MP760 has quickly become a favorite of mine. I would love to see an 13"x19” version since I often make large prints, but I realize that many of you don’t have this need. If you are considering upgrading your current printer, you should give the PIXMA MP760 strong consideration. Yes, at $299 (MSRP), it costs more than today’s bargain printers, but the speed and quality at which it prints, the convenience that it offers, the individual ink cartridges, and the features that you’ll find yourself using more often than you think are worth the extra money.”

Website: CameraTown - Canon PIXMA MP760 Review

Kodak Press Release

New 18 Megapixel Image Sensor Expands Kodak’s Portfolio for Medium-Format Markets

Pentax Selects New KODAK KAF-18000CE for Upcoming 645 Digital Camera

Rochester, NY, March 16, 2005—Eastman Kodak Company once again is leading the market by providing technology that allows professional photographers to capture images with superior resolution without sacrificing the quality demanded by their clients. The company has expanded its image sensor portfolio for medium-format camera manufacturers with announcement of the KODAK KAF-18000CE, a new 18 million pixel image sensor. This sensor, which leverages the same award winning imaging technology that has made Kodak the leading image sensor supplier for medium-format camera manufacturers, has been selected by Pentax Corporation for use in the PENTAX 645 Digital camera now being developed.

Pentax DA 12-24mm is announced. The The smc PENTAX DA 12-24mm lens is the sixth lens from Pentax designed specifically for their digital SLR cameras. The new Pentax DA 12-24mm lens has a maximum aperture of F4 throughout the zoom range and offers an angle of view from 99 degrees to 61 degrees. The smc PENTAX DA 12-24mm features a Quick-Shift focusing system that allows you to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring. Price and availability of the Pentax DA 12-24mm lens to be confirmed.

Pentax USA Press Release

GOLDEN, CO (March 15, 2005)…PENTAX Imaging Company has announced yet another compact, lightweight, interchangeable zoom lens for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras including the *ist D and the *ist DS digital SLRs. The smc PENTAX-DA 12mm-24mm F4 ED AL [IF] is the sixth DA-series lens offered by the photo manufacturer.  The PENTAX-DA 12mm-24mm F4 ED AL [IF] will feature: 

* 2X zoom coverage in the ultra-wide angle range with an angle of view from 99 degrees to 61 degrees (equivalent in focal length from 18.5mm to 37mm in the 35mm format) when mounted on the PENTAX *ist D or *ist DS digital SLR camera body
* 13-element/11-group optical construction incorporating ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and aspherical optical elements
* The compact dimensions (diameter x length) of 3.3½ x 3.4½ (83.5mm x 87.5mm)

Pentax 645 Digital Camera is announced. The Pentax 645 Digital Camera will be on show under glass at the Photo Imaging Expo in Japan this week (starts tomorrow). The Pentax 645 Digital Camera is an 18.6 megapixel digital medium format camera that uses the Pentax 645 autofocus mount and which will be compatible with all existing smc PENTAX 645 lenses. Price and availability of the Pentax 645 Digital Camera to be confirmed.

Pentax USA Press Release

FIRST PENTAX 645 DIGITAL TO BE UNVEILED AT TOKYO TRADE SHOW

GOLDEN, CO (March 15, 2005)…PENTAX Imaging Company has announced that PENTAX Corporation will unveil the first PENTAX 645 Digital medium-format camera at the Photo Imaging Expo (PIE) from March 17–20, 2005 in Tokyo.  This latest PENTAX digital advancement will be showcased under glass at PIE 2005.

The PENTAX 645 Digital camera will offer professional quality digital image reproduction.  The camera will also feature:

  * A reliable PENTAX 645 AF mount
  * Compatibility with existing smc PENTAX 645 interchangeable lenses
  * A Kodak developed extra-large CCD image sensor with 18.6 total megapixels.*

Nikon Coolpix S1 is announced today by Nikon Japan. The Nikon Coolpix S1 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with a 35-105mm 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens. The Nikon S1 is a completely new design for Nikon digital cameras - the Coolpix S1 is a small and slim camera, with the S in the product name standing for “style”. The Nikon Coolpix S1 also has a 2.5 inch LCD screen and can take up to 200 shots with an EN-EL8 rechargeable battery. The Nikon Coolpix S1 is scheduled for release in April 2005 and will retail at £279.99 / €418.00. The Ebony Black version is a Dixons Group exclusive in the UK.

Nikon Japan Press Release

Surprisingly slim, exceptionally stylish — the COOLPIX S1 blends high reliability with high-quality shooting for users of all levels

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX S1, the first in a new series of COOLPIX cameras that blend portability with “Style” — which is precisely what the “S” in “S1” stands for. Not only is the COOLPIX S1 highly attractive with a sleek aluminum exterior available in Pure Silver, Ivory White and Ebony Black* — it also retains its super slim and small dimensions (89.9 x 57.5 x 19.7mm) at all times due to its “right-angle” optics system that allows the zoom lens to function throughout its entire range without protruding from the camera body. This optical system also features an ED lens to ensure sharp, natural results and the COOLPIX S1 additionally features a selection of innovative features, delivering smooth operation and high-quality results.

Luminous Landscape have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT DSLR.

“Let me put this as delicately as possible. The viewfinder of the 350XT is small. How small? Very small. It is one of the smallest viewfinders that I’ve ever seen. As Mike Johnston put it in a recent column, when talking about the small viewfinders that we are seeing in the latest generation of reduced frame and reduced cost DSLRs, it’s like looking at a postage stamp at the end of a tunnel. Having said that, it’s still better than any electronic viewfinder that I’ve ever seen. These are like looking at a fuzzy TV at the end of a long tunnel. “

Website: Luminous Landscape - Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT Review

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The Hungarian website Index Digicam have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT DSLR.

Website: Index Digicam - Canon EOS 350D Review

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Kodak Press Release

Kodak Showcases Convergence of Digital Imaging and Mobile Lifestyles at CTIA Wireless Conference

CEO Dan Carp Delivers Keynote Address to the Wireless Industry

NEW ORLEANS, March 14—Highlighting its leadership role in mobile imaging markets around the globe, Eastman Kodak Company will showcase a range of products and services at the wireless industry’s largest international tradeshow, the 2005 Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA) wireless conference starting today in New Orleans (Booth #2313; Hall C).

Reflecting Kodak’s commitment to the wireless industry, Kodak Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Daniel A. Carp, will deliver the opening keynote address this morning (9:00 – 10:30 a.m.) to share the company’s vision for anytime, anywhere access to pictures.  With industry estimates showing that somewhere between 25 to 68 billion images will be captured with camera phones this year, Carp will call upon network operators, handset manufacturers and content and software developers to work together to make mobile imaging easy and universal for consumers.

“This convergence of digital imaging and wireless technologies provides a tremendous opportunity for all involved,” Carp said. “As part of our digital growth strategy, Kodak is leading the way by making mobile imaging accessible to millions of people around the world, enabling consumers to easily view, share and print pictures anytime, anywhere. But making photography ubiquitous requires the work of all industry participants, and Kodak is calling on the industry’s leaders industryto band together for the benefit of the consumer and the market as a whole.”

Konica Minolta USA Press Release

KONICA MINOLTA ANNOUNCES FREE “MY VACATION PHOTO BOOK” INKJET PAPER CONSUMER PROMOTION

Mahwah, NJ (March 14, 2005) – Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. announces that from May 2, 2005 until July 29, 2005 consumers that purchase various popular Konica Minolta inkjet paper packs will immediately receive a free “My Vacation Photo Book”.

“Targeting households with young children, this promotion offers the highest quality inkjet photo paper available on the market, and a fun way for families to showcase and share their great summer vacation photos that they printed in the comfort of their own home,” said Todd Schrader, vice president of marketing for Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc.

Available for free to consumers is the “My Vacation Photo Book” individually shrink-wrapped with Konica Minolta photo inkjet paper products (a $5.99 retail value). This photo book is a keepsake featuring pages that help build a child’s vacation story with a pre-printed rhyme and room for personally inserted pictures ending with a “My Favorite Photo” page.

Canon UK Press Release

Online gallery returns to search for best photograph of UEFA Champions League 2004/2005

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of The Shot, an interactive photo competition hosted on the official website of UEFA, www.uefa.com/theshot.  The original competition during UEFA EURO 2004™ attracted over 1.3 million visitors and we expect this updated version to be even more popular.

Available now, the website will be updated after each UEFA Champions League matchday with the very best images captured at each game by Getty Images, the world’s leading professional sports photographers.  Football and photography fans alike can then visit the site and vote on which pictures they think are the most visually exciting; these votes will be recorded throughout the knockout stages of the competition to identify The Shot of the competition after the Final in May.

By registering to vote and taking part in the competition, fans can win a range of fantastic prizes. There are six competition periods, each offering the chance to win a variety of cutting edge Canon cameras and printers and limited edition Canon merchandise. The Grand Prize is a once in a lifetime VIP trip to a UEFA Champions League game during next year’s competition.

I3A Press Release

I3A Publishes Technical White Paper on Common Picture Exchange Environment — CPXE — V2.0

New Features Include Support for Transactions, Image Storage and Albums

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y, March 15, 2005 — The International Imaging Industry Association (I3A), the leading global association for the imaging industry, has published a technical White Paper covering Version 2.0 of its cutting-edge suite of specifications, CPXe, for the exchange of digital images and order information. The 30-page document, entitled “Standardized Interfaces for the Common Picture eXchange environment,” is available for download at no charge from I3A’s Web site, http://www.i3a.org/pdf/CPXeWP05_Mar11_Final.pdf.

Imaging Resource have reviewed the Olympus Mju 410 Digital camera. The Mju 410 is encased in a full metal body with a silver finish, offers 4 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom. The Mju 410 is the first Mju Digital model to feature TruePic Turbo, a new image processor which sharpens image clarity, contrast and colour for life-like results.

“The Olympus Stylus film cameras are currently among the best selling point-and-shoot models available, widely popular across a range of consumer experience levels. Besides its user-friendly interface, compact design and good picture quality, its excellent (and unusual) water sealing makes the Stylus 410 an appealing choice for a “take anywhere” camera. Battery life is excellent as well, and its color is very appealing. We’d be very enthusiastic about the camera were it not for what appears to be very aggressive anti-noise processing that drastically cuts image detail in areas of low subject contrast. Even in 4x6 prints, the effect is quite noticeable, and really makes it hard for us to recommend this model. To our minds, a much better choice for the money is the excellent little Olympus Stylus Verve. The Verve shares the Stylus 410’s water-resistance, to our eye has better build quality (and a very stylish case), and snaps very sharp, colorful pictures, all for only a few dollars more than the Stylus 410 model at retail.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Olympus Mju 410 Digital Review

Website: Read my review of the Olympus Mju 410 Digital

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DIWA member and Czech website FotoAparat.cz have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.

Website: FotoAparat.cz - FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom Review

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DIWA member and Slovenian website e-fotografija have just posted their review of the 4 megapixel, 8.3x optical zoom Nikon Coolpix 4800.

Website: e-fotografija- Nikon Coolpix 4800 Review

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DPReview have just posted their review of the Fuji FinePix S3 Pro digital SLR.

“The S3 Pro’s unique selling feature, its extended dynamic range, really does exist and does work. We measured up to 10 stops of dynamic range in the camera’s “Wide 2” mode, however it’s seldom that this would be obvious in everyday shots. The reason for this is that in wide dynamic range mode you get the gain only in the highlights, it would have made sense to instead have the option of a completely different tone curve and expose for shadows to spread the additional dynamic range across the tonal scale rather than just in highlights (we often don’t mind clipped highlights as long as the roll-off is smooth).””

Website: DPReview - FujiFilm FinePix S3 Pro Review

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TrustedReviews have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.

“When it comes to the design, you’ll either love it or hate it. The S5500 looks a lot bigger in publicity photos than it does in real life. When you get it out of the box, the first impression is just how tiny the thing is. It looks like a camera version of those Micro Machine toy cars that were popular a few years ago, as though full-size features like the handgrip and lens had somehow been grafted onto a half-scale model of an SLR. However once you get over the initial fit of giggles and actually pick the thing up you’ll discover that it feels a lot bigger than it looks.”

Website: TrustedReviews - FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom Review

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The Fujifilm Finepix S3500 is a 4 megapixel digital camera with a 6x optical zoom lens that is equivalent to 39 - 234 mm on a 35mm camera. First announced in August 2004, the S3500 is now available at a street price of under £200 / $250. Almost one year ago I reviewed the 3 megapixel successor to the S3500, the S3000, which was intuitive to use but suffered badly from only having one slow ISO speed (100) and slightly muted images. Have Fujifilm added enough extra features to make the S3500 a more capable camera and also still remain competitive in the fast-moving digital camera market? Read my review to find out.

Website: Fujifilm Finepix S3500 Review