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Panasonic have released some sample images taken with their new 5 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5. With a 12x image stabilized Leica lens, the DMC-FZ5 improves on the DMC-FZ3 by offering faster auto-focus and improved body design, as well as more megapixels.
Thanks to Ricky Nichols for letting me know!
Website: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5 Sample Images
There are also sample images available for the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ2, DMC-LZ1 and DMC-LS1 cameras.
Website: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ2 Sample Images
Panasonic have released some sample images taken with their new 5 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5. With a 12x image stabilized Leica lens, the DMC-FZ5 improves on the DMC-FZ3 by offering faster auto-focus and improved body design, as well as more megapixels. Thanks to Ricky Nichols for letting me know! Website…
PMDA Press Release
HARVEY NAMED PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR BY PMDA
TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID ALAN HARVEY’S INTERNATIONAL IMAGES FEATURED IN “MASTER PHOTOGRAPHERS” SECTION
New York, NY—David Alan Harvey, the critically acclaimed travel photographer, has joined www.takegreatpictures.com as a “Master Photographer.” Harvey joins other notable photographers on the non-for-profit website including celebrity photographer Patrick McMullan, wedding photographer Denis Reggie and travel photographer Steve McCurry who took the famous photo in 1984 of the green-eyed girl from Afghanistan.
Harvey spends months shooting stories around the world, most often for the National Geographic Magazine, including French Teenagers, The Berlin Wall, The Maya Culture, Vietnam, Native Americans, Mexico and Naples. He has shot more than 30 stories for National Geographic and his photographs have also appeared in Life, The New York Times and Sports Illustrated. Harvey has been repeatedly drawn to the passion and lyricism of Spanish culture both in Spain and Latin America, soon to be the subject of a new book and exhibition centered on Cuba.
PMDA Press Release HARVEY NAMED PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR BY PMDA TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID ALAN HARVEY’S INTERNATIONAL IMAGES FEATURED IN “MASTER PHOTOGRAPHERS” SECTION New York, NY—David Alan Harvey, the critically acclaimed travel photographer, has joined www.takegreatpictures.com as a “Master Photographer.” Harvey joins other notable photographers on the non-for-profit website including…
PCMagazine have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S5100 is almost identical to last year’s FinePix S5000, the main difference being that Fuji’s proprietary 3.1-megapixel SuperCCD HR image sensor has been replaced with a conventional 4MP CCD. The result is a very fast shooter that takes very good pictures. If it had built-in antishake technology, it would be a serious contender for Editors’ Choice among superzooms. As it is, if money’s tight, this is a very good choice in the category.”
Website: PCMagazine - FujiFilm FinePix S5100 Review
PCMagazine have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera. “The Fujifilm FinePix S5100 is almost identical to last year’s FinePix S5000, the main difference being that Fuji’s proprietary 3.1-megapixel SuperCCD HR image sensor has been replaced with a conventional 4MP CCD. The result is a very…
Phase One have released a new firmware update for the Phase One P25 and P20 medium format digital backs.
New improvements in firmware version 3.10 for the P25 / P20:
Custom White Balance
Button lock function (avoid unwanted button operation when transporting)
Capture initiated from host computer is now supported on all P-backs
Improved EXIF information in the raw file
Overall stability improvements
Phase One have released a new firmware update for the Phase One P25 and P20 medium format digital backs. New improvements in firmware version 3.10 for the P25 / P20: Custom White Balance Button lock function (avoid unwanted button operation when transporting) Capture initiated from host computer is now supported…
PCMagazine have posted their review of the 5 megapixel, 10x optical zoom Kodak EASYSHARE DX7590 digital camera.
“Kodak expands its DX line with the 5-megapixel Kodak EasyShare DX7590. Kodak’s latest superzoom has a virtually identical body to that of the 4.2-MP EasyShare DX6490, which we awarded an Honorable Mention last year. This camera is also a solid performer, but as with the DX6490, we wish it had antishake capabilities for long zoom shots. Still, the camera’s overall image quality and performance remain good, and, as we’ve come to expect from Kodak, it’s a very user-friendly camera.”
Website: PCMagazine - Kodak EasyShare DX7590 Review
PCMagazine have posted their review of the 5 megapixel, 10x optical zoom Kodak EASYSHARE DX7590 digital camera. “Kodak expands its DX line with the 5-megapixel Kodak EasyShare DX7590. Kodak’s latest superzoom has a virtually identical body to that of the 4.2-MP EasyShare DX6490, which we awarded an Honorable Mention last…
Focus On Imaging is the UK’s biggest photography show, taking place on 27th February – 2nd March, and PhotographyBLOG will be there to bring you all the latest news from the show floor. Nikon have released details of their seminar schedule which will run throughout all 4 days of the show.
Nikon UK Press Release
Focus on imaging will take place this year from the 27th February – 2nd March, at the NEC in Birmingham.
Nikon’s stand at the 2005 event will have an excellent range of the latest products for visitors to handle, including the new professional digital SLR, the D2X. Nikon personnel will also be on hand to answer any questions that you may have.
The line-up of speakers is particularly impressive this year and includes talks from the following guest speakers:
Sunday 27th February
12-12.30pm and 2.30-3pm
Patrick Woodhead – Images of a White Desert
In November 2004 Patrick and his team of explorers set out to cross the Antarctic in the fastest time ever. Armed with the latest in Nikon digital imaging technology, Patrick and his team were able to capture the subzero action. Patrick will be talking about his epic journey across the South Pole.
Focus On Imaging is the UK’s biggest photography show, taking place on 27th February – 2nd March, and PhotographyBLOG will be there to bring you all the latest news from the show floor. Nikon have released details of their seminar schedule which will run throughout all 4 days of the…
PCMagazine have just reviewed the new 4 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 digital camera.
“With its big f/2.8 to f/4.5, 5.83-mm to 69.9-mm (35-mm to 420-mm, 35-mm equivalent) 12X optical zoom lens, antishake technology, futuristic looks, and nice handling characteristics, the 4-megapixel Konica Minolta DiMage Z3 provides good bang for the buck. Speed and image quality, however, don’t quite equal those of the top performers. If money is a factor, we’d recommend the FujiFilm FinePix S5100; if you can pay a little more, consider one of our Editors’ Choices in this class, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15.”
Website: PCMagazine - Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 Review
PCMagazine have just reviewed the new 4 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 digital camera. “With its big f/2.8 to f/4.5, 5.83-mm to 69.9-mm (35-mm to 420-mm, 35-mm equivalent) 12X optical zoom lens, antishake technology, futuristic looks, and nice handling characteristics, the 4-megapixel Konica Minolta DiMage Z3 provides good bang for…
DigitalCameraInfo have taken a look at the budget-priced 3.2 megapixel Olympus Camedia C-310Zoom digital camera.
“The Olympus D-540 suits point-and-shoot consumers perfectly. It has a large 1/3.7-inch 3.2 MP CCD and significant 1.8-inch LCD monitor. The built-in flash and automatic interface helps the camera appeal to any level user in most shooting situations, although there are glaring limitations in control. Control is granted over Exposure Compensation, Flash, Macro Mode, and White Balance. This camera is straightforward in its automatic control set up; however, the on-screen menu has a layout that is tiresome at many points when setting different options. It is also important to note that during testing, the number of batteries used was astronomical - and should factor into the price somewhere, however, the camera’s light weight frame, handling ease, and shooting competence should more then compensate for this to the right type of user.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Olympus Camedia D-540 Zoom Review
Website: Read my Olympus Camedia C-310Zoom Review
DigitalCameraInfo have taken a look at the budget-priced 3.2 megapixel Olympus Camedia C-310Zoom digital camera. “The Olympus D-540 suits point-and-shoot consumers perfectly. It has a large 1/3.7-inch 3.2 MP CCD and significant 1.8-inch LCD monitor. The built-in flash and automatic interface helps the camera appeal to any level user in…
DIWA member and Norwegian website digIT.no have today reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon Digital IXUS 40 (also known as the PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH).
Website: digIT.no - Canon Digital IXUS 40 Review
DIWA member and Norwegian website digIT.no have today reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon Digital IXUS 40 (also known as the PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH). Website: digIT.no - Canon Digital IXUS 40 Review Check the Latest Prices for the Canon Digital IXUS 40 Write a Review of the Canon Digital IXUS 40
PCMagazine have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8800.
“We define superzooms as cameras with a 10x or greater zoom. We define the enthusiast models as the all-in-one cameras at the high end of the price scale that can create very large images and give the shooter a lot of control. Until recently, these two segments were very cleanly delineated. But not anymore, thanks to Nikon’s 8-megapixel Coolpix 8800, an enthusiast camera with a superzoom lens.”
Website: PCMagazine - Nikon Coolpix 8800 Review
PCMagazine have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8800. “We define superzooms as cameras with a 10x or greater zoom. We define the enthusiast models as the all-in-one cameras at the high end of the price scale that can create very large images and give the…
CNET have reviewed the one of the of the lowest priced 4 megapixel digital cameras on the market, the Concord Eye-Q 4360z, which has a suggested retail price of $199.
“There are things to like about the value-priced Concord Eye-Q 4360Z, but stellar image quality and blazing performance are not on the list. If you’re patient enough to wait awhile between shots, don’t plan on making large prints, and can live without full-resolution burst mode, Concord can put you behind the viewfinder of an acceptable 4-megapixel snapshot camera for a reasonably low price.”
http://reviews.cnet.com/Concord_Eye_Q_4360Z/4505-6501_7-30684067-2.html?tag=top
CNET have reviewed the one of the of the lowest priced 4 megapixel digital cameras on the market, the Concord Eye-Q 4360z, which has a suggested retail price of $199. “There are things to like about the value-priced Concord Eye-Q 4360Z, but stellar image quality and blazing performance are not…
PCMagazine have published their review of the 4 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15 digicam.
“The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15 is the 4-megapixel cousin of the 5MP Lumix DMC-FZ20. Though it can’t come close to matching the sharpness of its higher-res stablemate, it still does quite well, and it’s actually a better camera when it comes to shooting action, because it needs 2 seconds less time to recycle between shots.”
PCMagazine have published their review of the 4 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15 digicam. “The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15 is the 4-megapixel cousin of the 5MP Lumix DMC-FZ20. Though it can’t come close to matching the sharpness of its higher-res stablemate, it still does quite well, and it’s actually a better camera…
Danish website Akamera.dk have today posted their review of the 6 megapixel Fuji FinePix E550.
Website: Akamera.dk - Fuji FinePix E550 Review
Danish website Akamera.dk have today posted their review of the 6 megapixel Fuji FinePix E550. Website: Akamera.dk - Fuji FinePix E550 Review Check the Latest Prices for the Fuji FinePix E550 Write a Review of the Fuji FinePix E550
PCMagazine have reviewed the Panasonic DMC-FZ20 digital camera, which has a 12x optical zoom lens from Leica.
“Larger than most superzooms, Panasonic’s top-of-the-line Lumix DMC-FZ20 is similar in size and look to a digital SLR. It combines very good image quality with top-notch specs and features. It isn’t perfect, but if we could take only one camera with us on vacation, it would be high on our list. With its impressive zoom lens and other capabilities, there are few scenes this camera couldn’t handle with aplomb.”
Website: PCMagazine - Panasonic DMC-FZ20 Review
PCMagazine have reviewed the Panasonic DMC-FZ20 digital camera, which has a 12x optical zoom lens from Leica. “Larger than most superzooms, Panasonic’s top-of-the-line Lumix DMC-FZ20 is similar in size and look to a digital SLR. It combines very good image quality with top-notch specs and features. It isn’t perfect, but…
Futurice Press Release
Photos to Friends A Virtual Sofa for Digital Camera and Phone Camera Owners
Digital camera and phone camera owners alike will be able to enjoy the new ‘Photos to Friends service’
Feb. 11, 2005—Futurice launches Photos to Friends service at 3GSM World Congress on 14 February 2005. The service resembles a virtual sofa where users can watch each others’ photos and chat with friends. It is private photo sharing online; each photo can only be seen by persons you have chosen.
The free service allows sharing of all photos that are in digital format. The easiest way is to use Photos to Friends camera phone applications to upload photos to the web based service. You can choose the persons you want to share the photos with directly from the contact list in the phone using Futurice’s patent pending technology. Digital camera users can upload photos with an Internet browser and later with a PC application. The service has been created based on the results of studies by the University of California at Berkeley, Helsinki Institute for Information Technology and Futurice on people’s true needs in relation to camera phones and photography and the sociological phenomena regarding photo sharing.
Futurice Press Release Photos to Friends A Virtual Sofa for Digital Camera and Phone Camera Owners Digital camera and phone camera owners alike will be able to enjoy the new ‘Photos to Friends service’ Feb. 11, 2005—Futurice launches Photos to Friends service at 3GSM World Congress on 14 February 2005…
PCMagazine have reviewed the Pentax OptioMX4, which is a cross between a digital camera and a camcorder.
“You may not want to try and take the pistol-grip, raygun-shaped Pentax Optio MX4 through airport security. But otherwise it’s a passable, inexpensive 4MP superzoom still camera, and quite a good still/video hybrid as well. If you’re looking primarily for a superzoom that shoots great stills, you can do much better, but if you want one camera that’s also suitable for shooting a lot of video, the MX4 is well worth considering.”
Website: PCMagazine - Pentax OptioMX4 Review
PCMagazine have reviewed the Pentax OptioMX4, which is a cross between a digital camera and a camcorder. “You may not want to try and take the pistol-grip, raygun-shaped Pentax Optio MX4 through airport security. But otherwise it’s a passable, inexpensive 4MP superzoom still camera, and quite a good still/video hybrid…
Photo Tidbits has just published a detailed guide to creating infrared photos with your digital camera - apparently this is a technique best suited to cheaper digicams (found via StillJournal):
“Ironically, digital SLRs (except for the E-10/E-20 by Olympus) do not allow you to use the LCD monitor for picture preview and composition. You have to compose without the filter (using a tripod, of course), then put the filter on and shoot blind. If you have a digital SLR and intend working in infrared, you will be better off getting an inexpensive non-SLR model specifically for infrared. You need a small backup camera anyway.”
Website: Photo Tidbits - Infrared Photography With a Digital Camera
Photo Tidbits has just published a detailed guide to creating infrared photos with your digital camera - apparently this is a technique best suited to cheaper digicams (found via StillJournal): “Ironically, digital SLRs (except for the E-10/E-20 by Olympus) do not allow you to use the LCD monitor for picture…
PMAI have published a detailed 14-page report on the photography industry from a commercial point of view. Well worth reading despite being aimed at the photography manufacturers rather than the Joe Bloggs consumer.
“Although the growth of digital printing has been impressive, the volumes understate the potential of the photoservice market. In fact, the majority of pictures taken with digital cameras do not get printed. More specifically, the number of images kept in digital format in 2004 was 9.4 billion, representing share of 65 percent and is projected to grow to 12.3 billion in 2005. The share of digital images that are not printed is declining as the industry is doing a better job of establishing awareness for services and attracting consumers with custom gifts and other innovations. Note that the numbers below do not include images from cameraphones, PDA’s, or other camera-able devices. The number of images saved in digital format could indeed explode in the next few years, creating opportunities for more photo products and services.”
PMAI have published a detailed 14-page report on the photography industry from a commercial point of view. Well worth reading despite being aimed at the photography manufacturers rather than the Joe Bloggs consumer. “Although the growth of digital printing has been impressive, the volumes understate the potential of the photoservice…
Photoscala have a fascinating interview on the topic of the Four Thirds System with both Olympus and Panasonic, who recently recently signed a joint development agreement with Olympus for interchangeable lens type digital SLR cameras based on the Four Thirds System standard.
“photoscala: What is Panasonic expecting from this agreement? Where will the company benefit, where will the company bring in?
Michael Langbehn: At first, the joint agreement is a benefit for „Four Thirds“. Both partners bundle their power. With Olympus’ experience with digital SLRs, and Panasonic’s knowledge in digital technology it shall go ahead for the Four Thirds System. Moreover, this alliance is supporting us in our goal to be registered better as a manufacturer of digital cameras, and to achieve a 10 per cent global market share in 2006.”
Website: Photoscala - Interview: Four Thirds on the up and up
Photoscala have a fascinating interview on the topic of the Four Thirds System with both Olympus and Panasonic, who recently recently signed a joint development agreement with Olympus for interchangeable lens type digital SLR cameras based on the Four Thirds System standard. “photoscala: What is Panasonic expecting from this agreement…
About Photography have a detailed look at taking care of your lenses, from a digital SLR point of view, explaining how best to change them, protect them and clean them.
“I’ve noticed that some photographers have far more trouble with dust on digital sensors than others. In part this seems to be due to camera differences, and in general CMOS sensors have seemed to give fewer problems than CCD devices. This could reflect differences in electrostatic build-up on the two types. How well the mirror physically seals the sensor may also be important, as well as heating effects in different areas of the camera during use which could cause air currents. But even photographers using the same camera model find marked differences, and my hunch is that it may be down to how we change lenses.”
Website: About Photography - Lens Care: Cleaning and Changing Lenses
About Photography have a detailed look at taking care of your lenses, from a digital SLR point of view, explaining how best to change them, protect them and clean them. “I’ve noticed that some photographers have far more trouble with dust on digital sensors than others. In part this seems…