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Monday, December 27, 2004

Pro Image Press Release

Pro Image Online.com is a fresh stock house based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada that is seeking new photographers from around the world to supply
the growing increase in the online image sales field. Owner PJ Smith realizes that stock image sales might not be the first method of marketing that a professional might think of but it is a well designed site that profiles a small but highly targeted number of images. 

While it is getting easier to get that perfect image through digital, there is the problem of actually being able to sell all of those thousands of new images you’re going to get over the next couple of years.  To say nothing of what is usable in your back image files.

Pro Image Press Release Pro Image Online.com is a fresh stock house based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada that is seeking new photographers from around the world to supply the growing increase in the online image sales field. Owner PJ Smith realizes that stock image sales might not be the first…

Thursday, December 23, 2004

The holiday season is almost upon us, so I’m going to take a few well-earned days off, returning early next week to catch up on everything that has happened over the Christmas period (I can almost guarantee that somebody will issue a press release on December 25th…). So I’d just like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas (in moderation of course!) - make sure that you get out and about with your camera and avoid the film that is always on the TV at this time of year…

The holiday season is almost upon us, so I’m going to take a few well-earned days off, returning early next week to catch up on everything that has happened over the Christmas period (I can almost guarantee that somebody will issue a press release on December 25th…). So I’d just…

Canon have published the latest issue of their monthly CPS (Canon Professional Services) Newsletter, which has some interesting articles about wildlife photography, the new Speedlite 580ex flashgun, and a great portfolio by Manuel Presti.

Website: Canon CPS Issue#10

Canon have published the latest issue of their monthly CPS (Canon Professional Services) Newsletter, which has some interesting articles about wildlife photography, the new Speedlite 580ex flashgun, and a great portfolio by Manuel Presti. Website: Canon CPS Issue#10

Wacom Intuos3BIOS Magazine have just posted their review of the new Wacom Intuos3 pen tablet.

“Ideal for digital photographers, graphic design professionals and artists, Wacom’s Intuos3 pen tablet offers a much more precise and natural way to draw freehand compared to a mouse. The A4 tablet also provides a 1:1 mapping ratio for most monitors and is ideal for artistic styles that need full arm motion. In addition, it features ExpressKeys and Touch Strips on both sides of the active area to accommodate left- and right-handed people. Doubling the resolution of its predecessor, the Intuos2, Wacom has also upped the pressure sensitivity to 1024 levels in both the pen tip and eraser of the supplied pen, so the tablet is now a lot more sensitive. It also comes with a cordless and batteryless mouse, making it one of most intuitive input systems available. You also have the option of purchasing additional programmable accessories, such as an Airbrush (a digital pen with the feel and control of a real airbrush and includes a top-mounted fingerwheel to control ink flow, a pressure-sensitive tip and eraser), making the Intuos3 pen tablet one of the best products of its type.”

Website: BIOS Magazine - Wacom Intuos3 Review

BIOS Magazine have just posted their review of the new Wacom Intuos3 pen tablet. “Ideal for digital photographers, graphic design professionals and artists, Wacom’s Intuos3 pen tablet offers a much more precise and natural way to draw freehand compared to a mouse. The A4 tablet also provides a 1:1 mapping…

LensbabyFollowing my enthusiastic review of the Lensbaby a few months ago, PCMagazine have posted their review of this unique product just in time for Christmas.

“Looking for the perfect gift for the digital-SLR camera owner who’s tired of incredibly sharp photos? No, no, we’re serious. Today’s digital SLRs can produce tack-sharp images, but that’s not always what you want or need. For years, photographers have turned for creative inspiration to toy cameras like the Diana, Holga, and Lomo that produce slightly blurry, ethereal photos with their cheap plastic lenses. (You can see some great examples at the Toy Camera Ring.) Now you can produce similar images with much greater control, with the Lensbaby lens for popular digital and film SLRs.”

Website: PCMagazine - Lensbaby Review

Website: Read my review of the Lensbaby

Following my enthusiastic review of the Lensbaby a few months ago, PCMagazine have posted their review of this unique product just in time for Christmas. “Looking for the perfect gift for the digital-SLR camera owner who’s tired of incredibly sharp photos? No, no, we’re serious. Today’s digital SLRs can produce…

Digimaster USB/SD CardThe Taiwanese company Digimaster have just released the first SD memory card that also doubles up as a USB 2.0 flash drive, meaning that you can use it in your digital camera and then plug it directly into your PC to download your images (without having to buy or carry an SD card reader). Quite a cool technological solution that will make that ultra-compact digicam even more portable than before.

The 128MB version will retail for $880 (Taiwan New Dollars) and 256MB version for $1280.

Website: Engadget - The first USB-enabled SD card

The Taiwanese company Digimaster have just released the first SD memory card that also doubles up as a USB 2.0 flash drive, meaning that you can use it in your digital camera and then plug it directly into your PC to download your images (without having to buy or carry…

Panasonic  DMC-FX7The Hungarian website Index Digicam have published a review of the new 5 megapixel Panasonic DMC-FX7.

Website: Index Digicam - Panasonic DMC-FX7 Ultra Zoom Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Panasonic DMC-FX7 Ultra Zoom

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have published a review of the new 5 megapixel Panasonic DMC-FX7. Website: Index Digicam - Panasonic DMC-FX7 Ultra Zoom Review Check the Latest Prices for the Panasonic DMC-FX7 Ultra Zoom

Olympus E-300The Polish website Fotopolis have today posted their review of the new Olympus E-300/Evolt DSLR.

Website: Fotopolis - Olympus E-300/Evolt Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus E-300 / Evolt

Write a Review of the Olympus E-300 / Evolt

The Polish website Fotopolis have today posted their review of the new Olympus E-300/Evolt DSLR. Website: Fotopolis - Olympus E-300/Evolt Review Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus E-300 / Evolt Write a Review of the Olympus E-300 / Evolt

Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200Imaging Resource have reviewed the 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200 digital camera, which incorporates anti-shake technology and a swivelling LCD monitor.

“The Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 was easily a Dave’s Pick, capitalizing on fast shutter-lag, excellent exposure and creative control options, and an excellent image stabilization system. Though the Konica Minolta A200 is a slightly pared-down version of the A2, I see many of the same excellent features that I praised on the A2, such as fine-tuned creative adjustments for contrast, saturation, and hue; a full range of exposure control modes for any experience level; a high-resolution 8.0-megapixel CCD; and a sharp 7x optical zoom lens. The result is a camera with a really compelling set of features and capabilities…”

Website: Imaging Resource - Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200

Imaging Resource have reviewed the 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200 digital camera, which incorporates anti-shake technology and a swivelling LCD monitor. “The Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 was easily a Dave’s Pick, capitalizing on fast shutter-lag, excellent exposure and creative control options, and an excellent image stabilization system. Though the…

Fujifilm FinePix A340 ZoomImaging Resource have reviewed the Fujifilm FinePix A340 Zoom, a digital camera that offers 4 million effective pixel resolution, 3x optical zoom and a sturdy but stylish body.

“Known for great color and performance, Fuji has also carved out a niche for itself by consistently providing good-quality consumer digicams at rock-bottom prices. The latest in their line of bargain-priced cameras is the Fuji FinePix A340, a 4-megapixel digital camera. The Fuji A340 carries on the value-leading tradition of Fuji digital cameras by offering a 4.0-megapixel CCD and 3x optical zoom lens at a low price, and including a longer maximum exposure time of two seconds and four preset scene modes. As you’d expect, the Fuji FinePix A340 trades off a few features and capabilities to achieve its remarkably low cost, but the camera still takes good-looking pictures in daylight conditions, and is simple enough for even rank beginners to get started with.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Fujifilm FinePix A340 Zoom Review

Imaging Resource have reviewed the Fujifilm FinePix A340 Zoom, a digital camera that offers 4 million effective pixel resolution, 3x optical zoom and a sturdy but stylish body. “Known for great color and performance, Fuji has also carved out a niche for itself by consistently providing good-quality consumer digicams at…

Casio EXILIM Card EX-Z50PCMagazine have just reviewed the new slimline 5 megapixel Casio EXILIM Card EX-Z55 digital camera.

“The Z55 is a very good camera, and it scores better than any ultra-compact we’ve seen, in terms of numbers. The images themselves are another story; while they’re good (and by far the best ultracompact images we’ve seen from Casio) they can’t quite compare to those of the Canon Powershot SD300.”

Website: PCMagazine - Casio EXILIM Card EX-Z55 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Casio EXILIM Card EX-Z55

PCMagazine have just reviewed the new slimline 5 megapixel Casio EXILIM Card EX-Z55 digital camera. “The Z55 is a very good camera, and it scores better than any ultra-compact we’ve seen, in terms of numbers. The images themselves are another story; while they’re good (and by far the best ultracompact…

Panasonic  DMC-FX7PCMagazine have published a review of the new 5 megapixel Panasonic DMC-FX7.

“With ultracompact cameras, performance and optical compromises are inevitable. Still, we expected more from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX7. It’s a beautiful camera packed with features, but it lacks the speed and image quality necessary to make it our top choice.”

Website: PCMagazine - Panasonic DMC-FX7 Ultra Zoom Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Panasonic DMC-FX7 Ultra Zoom

PCMagazine have published a review of the new 5 megapixel Panasonic DMC-FX7. “With ultracompact cameras, performance and optical compromises are inevitable. Still, we expected more from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX7. It’s a beautiful camera packed with features, but it lacks the speed and image quality necessary to make it our…

Canon PowerShot SD20 Digital ELPHPCMagazine have reviewed the 5 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD20 Digital ELPH.

“The Canon PowerShot SD20 Digital Elph is a sleek, attractive, and durable 5MP ultracompact that takes very good daylight pictures. Flash shots aren’t as impressive, though, and there’s no optical zoom. Still, this smaller-than-pocket-size beauty takes a lovely, high-resolution picture and offers lots of extra features for its size; it’s a fine “companion” camera.”

Website: PCMagazine - Canon PowerShot SD20 Digital ELPH Review

PCMagazine have reviewed the 5 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD20 Digital ELPH. “The Canon PowerShot SD20 Digital Elph is a sleek, attractive, and durable 5MP ultracompact that takes very good daylight pictures. Flash shots aren’t as impressive, though, and there’s no optical zoom. Still, this smaller-than-pocket-size beauty takes a lovely, high-resolution…

Some industry news for you, as Sony announces plans to invest heavily in semiconductors and CMOS image sensors:

“Sony Corp announced Tuesday that it plans to invest a total of some 60 billion yen (US$575 million) to build two new facilities for the fabrication of semiconductor components for flat-panel televisions and other digital equipment at its subsidiary Sony Semiconductor Kyushu Co.”

Website: Asia Times - Sony to invest US$575m to boost chip production

Some industry news for you, as Sony announces plans to invest heavily in semiconductors and CMOS image sensors: “Sony Corp announced Tuesday that it plans to invest a total of some 60 billion yen (US$575 million) to build two new facilities for the fabrication of semiconductor components for flat-panel televisions…

Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPHPCMagazine have just reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH (also known as the IXUS 40).

“The Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital Elph is only a 4MP camera with a 2 inch LCD in an ultracompact space increasingly dominated by 5MP contenders with 2.5 inch LCDs—but that’s okay, because this tough, tiny camera punches well above its weight. Superb picture quality more than make up for its sluggish flash recycle times, making this our new Editors’ Choice ultracompact camera.”

Website: PCMagazine - Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH

PCMagazine have just reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH (also known as the IXUS 40). “The Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital Elph is only a 4MP camera with a 2 inch LCD in an ultracompact space increasingly dominated by 5MP contenders with 2.5 inch LCDs—but that’s okay, because…

Casio EXILIM Card EX-S100PCMagazine have just reviewed the new 3 megapixel Casio EXILIM Card EX-S100.

“The EX-S100 may satisfy extremely style-conscious casual shooters looking for an ultrathin camera that’ll be a conversation starter at parties, but its image quality may disappoint more serious shutterbugs. If you like Casio’s excellent menus but want a sharper lens, consider the slightly larger, 5MP Casio Exilim EX-Z55 for the same money.”

Website: PCMagazine - Casio EXILIM Card EX-S100 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Casio EXILIM Card EX-S100

PCMagazine have just reviewed the new 3 megapixel Casio EXILIM Card EX-S100. “The EX-S100 may satisfy extremely style-conscious casual shooters looking for an ultrathin camera that’ll be a conversation starter at parties, but its image quality may disappoint more serious shutterbugs. If you like Casio’s excellent menus but want a…

Jessops FuncamJessops Press Release

Jessops offer the perfect introduction to digital photography – the Jessops Funcam.

The compact camera takes digital images at a resolution of up to VGA size (640 x 480 pixels), meaning that results are ideal for e-mail and internet use.

The built-in 8MB internal memory will store up to 209 images (320x240). The results can then be transferred to a computer via the USB connection.

In addition to the still image mode, the Funcam features webcam and AVI (video clip) modes – all packed into a stylish body measuring just 8.8cm x 6.6cm x 2cm, and weighing just 42.5g without batteries.

Jessops Press Release Jessops offer the perfect introduction to digital photography – the Jessops Funcam. The compact camera takes digital images at a resolution of up to VGA size (640 x 480 pixels), meaning that results are ideal for e-mail and internet use. The built-in 8MB internal memory will store…

Olympus E-300Photo Tidbits have posted their review of the new Olympus E-300/Evolt DSLR (found via digicamera.net).

“While it is too early to draw definite conclusions, I can already say I’m mighty pleased with its performance.

First of all, the lens seems to be optically good in the whole focal length range. There is no objectionable softening of image in corners (just a tad at wide angle), no visible chromatic aberration. At the widest angle the zoom shows an average degree of spherical aberration (barrel) — 1% or less; not impressive, but not really bad.”

Website: Photo Tidbits - Olympus E-300/Evolt Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus E-300 / Evolt

Write a Review of the Olympus E-300 / Evolt

Photo Tidbits have posted their review of the new Olympus E-300/Evolt DSLR (found via digicamera.net). “While it is too early to draw definite conclusions, I can already say I’m mighty pleased with its performance. First of all, the lens seems to be optically good in the whole focal length range…

Olympus Mju - mini DIGITALPCMagazine have just posted their review of the diminutive and stylish 4 megapixel Olympus Mju Mini digicam (called the Stylus Verve in the USA).

“The Olympus Stylus Verve is certainly one of the cooler-looking ultracompact digital cameras on the market today. And it’s full of nice design touches, like a weather-resistant body, and a built-in lens cover that can’t accidentally be pushed open. But unfortunately, the fact that it’s available in six colors and will impress your style-conscious friends doesn’t make up for its muddy, grainy pictures.”

Website: PCMagazine - Olympus Mju Mini Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus Mju Mini

PCMagazine have just posted their review of the diminutive and stylish 4 megapixel Olympus Mju Mini digicam (called the Stylus Verve in the USA). “The Olympus Stylus Verve is certainly one of the cooler-looking ultracompact digital cameras on the market today. And it’s full of nice design touches, like a…

Microtek ScanMaker 5800Microtek Press Release

Slim and compact scanner with Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Microtek launched a new consumer scanner in the European market: the ScanMaker 5800. Equipped with Hi-Speed USB 2.0, 7 scan buttons and a resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi this scanner is particularly suitable for consumer and SOHO. With his slim 6 cm high body, this scanner is one of the slimmest with CCD technology and still keeps the image quality. With his slim and compact design you save more desk space. The transparency unit LightLid 35 is easy to connect. Additionally to this scanner you get a considerabl software
package. Including ScanWizard, Adobe Photoshop LE, ABBYY Fine Reader Sprint, Ulead PhotoExplorer and Ulead DVD Picture Show

Microtek Press Release Slim and compact scanner with Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Microtek launched a new consumer scanner in the European market: the ScanMaker 5800. Equipped with Hi-Speed USB 2.0, 7 scan buttons and a resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi this scanner is particularly suitable for consumer and SOHO. With…