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Thursday, November 25, 2004

Tamron SP AF200-500MM F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF)Photo.net have just published a review of the new Tamron SP AF200-500MM F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) Lens.

“The Tamron SP AF200-500MM F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) is a pretty decent telephoto zoom for the price (around $875 discount). It’s well made, feels sturdy, the tripod mount is stable and focus is accurate. The hood is deep and effective and the supplied filter effect control adapter is a neat idea. The supplied soft case is useful and protects the lens well. The 6 year warranty is also a plus. Most lenses only come with a 12 month warranty.”

Website: Photo.net - Tamron 200-500mm Lens Review

Photo.net have just published a review of the new Tamron SP AF200-500MM F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) Lens. “The Tamron SP AF200-500MM F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) is a pretty decent telephoto zoom for the price (around $875 discount). It’s well made, feels sturdy, the tripod mount is stable and focus is…

Canon USA have released new versions of three of their software programs - Digital Photo Professional, EOS Viewer Utility and EOS Capture (full details over at Rob Galbraith). DPP 1.5 is available for Windows XP/2000/Me/98SE and Mac OS X Version 10.2 or higher. EVU 1.2.1 and EOS Capture are available for Windows XP/2000/Me/98SE and Mac OS 9 as well as Mac OS X Version 10.2 or higher.

Thanks to Sailesh Panchal for letting me know :-)

Website: Canon USA Downloads

Website: Rob Galbraith - Canon DPP 1.5, EVU 1.2.1 and EOS Capture 1.2 now available

Canon USA have released new versions of three of their software programs - Digital Photo Professional, EOS Viewer Utility and EOS Capture (full details over at Rob Galbraith). DPP 1.5 is available for Windows XP/2000/Me/98SE and Mac OS X Version 10.2 or higher. EVU 1.2.1 and EOS Capture are available…

Nikon have released a new version of their PictureProject software which ships with most Nikon digital cameras. Version 1.1 adds a long list of improvements and changes which are documented at the website below.

Website: Nikon PictureProject Version 1.1 - Windows

Nikon have released a new version of their PictureProject software which ships with most Nikon digital cameras. Version 1.1 adds a long list of improvements and changes which are documented at the website below. Website: Nikon PictureProject Version 1.1 - Windows

Luminous Landscape has reviewed a new productm WhiBal, for removing colour casts from your photographs, specifically targetted at RAW files. WhiBal has been created by Michael Tapes, a name that some readers may recognise - Tapes also runs his onw website, rawworkflow.com, which sells and provides support for Capture One software, amongst other things.

“So, who needs a WhiBal, and what on earth is a WhiBal anyhow?

WhiBal is simply four pieces of precision molded plastic that have an extremely neutral colour. They are secured together with a rivet that allows them to rotate, and are attached to a lanyard that can hang around your neck or attach to your shooting vest when you’re in the field.

Their advantage over a gray card is size and convenience. Also durability. They are coloured all the way through, and even if they become scratched they will not provide a false reference. Also, with white, black and two shades of gray, you are able to use the WhiBal to set white point and black point as well, and also get a correct setting even if your exposure is off.”

Website: Luminous Landscape - White Balance in Your Pocket

Luminous Landscape has reviewed a new productm WhiBal, for removing colour casts from your photographs, specifically targetted at RAW files. WhiBal has been created by Michael Tapes, a name that some readers may recognise - Tapes also runs his onw website, rawworkflow.com, which sells and provides support for Capture One…

Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50Polish website FotoPolis have reviewed the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50, a new compact and stylish 5.0 megapixel camera which features a large 2.0-inch LCD screen, enhanced speed and other design improvements.

Website: FotoPolis - Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50

Polish website FotoPolis have reviewed the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50, a new compact and stylish 5.0 megapixel camera which features a large 2.0-inch LCD screen, enhanced speed and other design improvements. Website: FotoPolis - Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50 Review Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50

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

“In an ideal world buying an ultra compact camera would not involve any compromise at all. But this ain’t a perfect world, and if you want a camera you really can carry with you anytime, anywhere then you have to accept there will be some trade-off in terms of absolute image quality. The SD300 is, fortunately, more than just a slim, cool, stylish camera with enough silly names (ELPH, IXY, IXUS) for an entire episode of Monty Python. It’s a fast, easy to use, well-specified camera that can genuinely claim to be pocket-sized, and it produces images that - whist by no means perfect - are sharp, clean and colorful, and it does so with the minimum fuss.”

Website: DPReview - Canon Digital IXUS 40 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Canon Digital IXUS 40

DPReview have just reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon Digital IXUS 40 (also known as the PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH). “In an ideal world buying an ultra compact camera would not involve any compromise at all. But this ain’t a perfect world, and if you want a camera you really can…

Adobe Photoshop CSThis looks like an unmissable offer for Canon and Nikon owners who live in the USA. Upgrade from Photoshop Elements to Photoshop CS for just $299, a saving of $350! (found via DigiCamera.net).

Website: Adobe - Canon Offer

Website: Adobe - Nikon Offer

This looks like an unmissable offer for Canon and Nikon owners who live in the USA. Upgrade from Photoshop Elements to Photoshop CS for just $299, a saving of $350! (found via DigiCamera.net). Website: Adobe - Canon Offer Website: Adobe - Nikon Offer

HP Photosmart 375TrustedReviews have just reviewed the new HP Photosmart 375 compact photo printer.

“In conclusion, I have to say that the PictureMate is the better quality printer with its clearer branding, superior prints and simpler way of purchasing consumables. It is also considerably cheaper than the 375 at around ?125 including VAT ? that said, the Photosmart 375 is bringing a 2.5in colour screen and bundled Bluetooth adapter to the party, which justifies some of the cost. The tiny size of the 375 is also a major plus if you are going to be on the move, while the Photosmart series? built in battery will no doubt be a hit with anyone that needs a mobile dark room.”

Website: TrustedReviews - HP Photosmart 375 Compact Photo Printer Review

Check the Latest Prices for the HP Photosmart 375 Printer

TrustedReviews have just reviewed the new HP Photosmart 375 compact photo printer. “In conclusion, I have to say that the PictureMate is the better quality printer with its clearer branding, superior prints and simpler way of purchasing consumables. It is also considerably cheaper than the 375 at around ?125 including…

Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700Casio have released a new firmware version for their 7 megapixel digicam, the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700.

Version 1.01 includes the following change:

Fixes problem that made it impossible to record under dark conditions when the camera was set up for extreme underexposure.

Website: Download Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700 Firmware Version 1.01

Check the Latest Prices for the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700

Casio have released a new firmware version for their 7 megapixel digicam, the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700. Version 1.01 includes the following change: Fixes problem that made it impossible to record under dark conditions when the camera was set up for extreme underexposure. Website: Download Casio EXILIM Pro EX-P700 Firmware…

Kodak Easyshare CX7300CNET have reviewed the Kodak Easyshare CX7300 (US$129.95 MSRP), which is designed for the entry-level digital photographer. Its 3.2-megapixel resolution and 3X digital zoom provide prints up to 11 x 14 inches.

“The Kodak EasyShare CX7300 is a minimalist digital camera at a minimalist price. Available for little more than the tariff on a Webcam a few years ago, it’s a simple 3.2-megapixel snapshooter that can ease the greenest neophyte into digital photography. If you want just the basics, you probably won’t miss all the features this camera doesn’t offer, nor will you care that its image quality is mediocre.”

Website: CNET - Kodak Easyshare CX7300 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Kodak Easyshare CX7300

CNET have reviewed the Kodak Easyshare CX7300 (US$129.95 MSRP), which is designed for the entry-level digital photographer. Its 3.2-megapixel resolution and 3X digital zoom provide prints up to 11 x 14 inches. “The Kodak EasyShare CX7300 is a minimalist digital camera at a minimalist price. Available for little more than…

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-V3CNET have published their review of the 7 megapixel Sony Cybershot DSC-V3.

“Part of the first generation of 7-megapixel digital cameras, Sony’s DSC-V3 boasts a 4X Carl Zeiss zoom lens, a big 2.5-inch LCD, plenty of advanced features, and fairly sprightly performance. Though its image quality isn’t absolutely top tier, it’s still a potentially appealing choice for enthusiast photographers looking for a compact package.”

Website: CNET - Sony Cybershot DSC-V3 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Sony Cybershot DSC-V3

CNET have published their review of the 7 megapixel Sony Cybershot DSC-V3. “Part of the first generation of 7-megapixel digital cameras, Sony’s DSC-V3 boasts a 4X Carl Zeiss zoom lens, a big 2.5-inch LCD, plenty of advanced features, and fairly sprightly performance. Though its image quality isn’t absolutely top tier…

Wednesday, November 24, 2004

Rollei dr5100Rollei have announced a couple of new digital cameras, the 5 megapixel dr5100 (pictured) and the 4 megapixel dk4010. Further details over at DP-Now.

Website: DP-Now - Rollei dr5100

Website: DP-Now - Rollei dk4010

Rollei have announced a couple of new digital cameras, the 5 megapixel dr5100 (pictured) and the 4 megapixel dk4010. Further details over at DP-Now. Website: DP-Now - Rollei dr5100 Website: DP-Now - Rollei dk4010

Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPHThe Spanish website quesabesde.com have just reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon Digital IXUS 40 (also known as the PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH).

Website: quesabesde.com - Canon Digital IXUS 40 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Canon Digital IXUS 40

The Spanish website quesabesde.com have just reviewed the 4 megapixel Canon Digital IXUS 40 (also known as the PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH). Website: quesabesde.com - Canon Digital IXUS 40 Review Check the Latest Prices for the Canon Digital IXUS 40

Nikon Coolpix 8800Imaging Resource have posted their review of the new 8 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8800.

“In working with it, we found the Coolpix 8800 to be a very appealing camera to use. Apart from a few minor niggles, its controls and ergonomics were really just right, its long-ratio zoom lens was impressive, and its VR (Vibration Reduction) technology seemed unusually effective at reducing the effects of camera shake. Image quality was generally excellent, with loads of resolution, in-camera sharpening that struck a good balance between perceived sharpness and minimal artifacts, good (if somewhat bright) color, and a lens that kept chromatic aberration largely in check yet maintained good sharpness in the corners of the frame.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Nikon Coolpix 8800 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Nikon Coolpix 8800

Imaging Resource have posted their review of the new 8 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8800. “In working with it, we found the Coolpix 8800 to be a very appealing camera to use. Apart from a few minor niggles, its controls and ergonomics were really just right, its long-ratio zoom lens was…

Canon PowerShot A400TrustedReviews have reviewed Canon’s new entry-level digital camera, the PowerShot A400.

“Anyone with a grounding in traditional photography may find the lack of control over the picture taking process limiting, but for almost anyone else the A400 manages to combine the virtues of point-and-shoot with the image quality of cameras many times the price, all in a small, sleek body. The lack of a genuine wide-angle end to the zoom range and weak performance in low light takes the shine off an otherwise excellent showing. Were it not for the existence of the slightly more expensive but better specified PowerShot A-75, the A400 would have landed itself a recommended award.”

Website: TrustedReviews - Canon PowerShot A400 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Canon PowerShot A400

TrustedReviews have reviewed Canon’s new entry-level digital camera, the PowerShot A400. “Anyone with a grounding in traditional photography may find the lack of control over the picture taking process limiting, but for almost anyone else the A400 manages to combine the virtues of point-and-shoot with the image quality of cameras…

Kodak Easyshare LS753DigitalCameraInfo.com have just reviewed the 5 megapixel Kodak Easyshare LS753, which was first announced back in January.

“Kodak’s EasyShare LS753 has been designed for the point-and-shoot consumer seeking lots of automatic control settings but with the possibility for manual control. It has a nicely sized 1/2.5-inch 5MP CCD, and a 1.8-inch LCD screen. The menus are set up neatly, with full word headings and clear subsections, and even if some of the controls are undersized, all of them are easily accessed. The LS753 gets poor marks for its impractical viewfinder, with only 80 percent frame coverage, and the fact that, at $349.95, the 2.8x optical zoom lens seems a little paltry. This camera is great for the financially carefree user who wants an aesthetically pleasing point-and-shoot camera that is easily navigated.”

Website: DigitalCameraInfo.com - Kodak Easyshare LS753 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Kodak Easyshare LS753

DigitalCameraInfo.com have just reviewed the 5 megapixel Kodak Easyshare LS753, which was first announced back in January. “Kodak’s EasyShare LS753 has been designed for the point-and-shoot consumer seeking lots of automatic control settings but with the possibility for manual control. It has a nicely sized 1/2.5-inch 5MP CCD, and a…

Canon PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPHDCResource have just reviewed the 3 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPH (also known as the IXUS 30).

“Overall the PowerShot SD200 is a very ultra-compact point-and-shoot camera. Photo quality is very good, though the occasional dark or blurry corner and purple fringing are a step down from the old S410/S500. Still, this camera will do a great job for its target audience: namely, web photos and smaller-sized prints. The SD200 features a stylish, ultra-thin metal body that will go anywhere. It’s well-built for the most part, save for the incredibly cheap plastic door over the memory card / battery compartment on the bottom of the camera.”

Website: DCResource - Canon PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPH Review

DCResource have just reviewed the 3 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPH (also known as the IXUS 30). “Overall the PowerShot SD200 is a very ultra-compact point-and-shoot camera. Photo quality is very good, though the occasional dark or blurry corner and purple fringing are a step down from the old…

Canon EOS 20DBob Atkins has published his review of the 8 megapixel Canon EOS 20D DSLR.

“Probably the most obvious change from the point of view of camera specifications is the change from a 6.3 MP sensor in the EOS 10D to an 8.1 MP sensor in the 20D. This means that the maximum image size of 3072 x 2048 of the 10D has increased to 3045 x 2336 pixels in the 20D. What people really want to know is what does this translate to in practice.

Well, it’s not a “night and day” difference. Casually viewing an 8x10 print you might not even notice it. However if you make a large print, or if you significantly crop an image (of if you view the image at 100% magnification on a monitor!) the higher resolution is more noticeable.”

Website: Bob Atkins - Canon EOS 20D Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Canon EOS 20D

Bob Atkins has published his review of the 8 megapixel Canon EOS 20D DSLR. “Probably the most obvious change from the point of view of camera specifications is the change from a 6.3 MP sensor in the EOS 10D to an 8.1 MP sensor in the 20D. This means that…

Rolleiflex MiniDigiCameratown have just reviewed the blast from the past in digital form that is the recently-announced Rolleiflex MiniDigi digital camera.

“It would be easy to drag this camera through the mud if image quality and features were the real reason to own this camera. However, the truth is, this camera is for Rolleiflex enthusiasts who will get great pleasure at showing up at an event with this camera around their neck, cranking the handle, and looking down into the LCD viewfinder to snap a picture. Yes, the camera lacks a flash, zoom lens, good image quality, and many more features we have come to expect in cameras selling for $100.00 - but none of the those cameras will give you the nostalgic feeling that holding this Rolleiflex MiniDigi camera will give you. I think it is similar to driving around in a antique “kit” car. It is less about performance than it is nostalgia. The anticipated street price is $299. It’s your money. You decide.”

Website: eCameratown - Rolleiflex MiniDigi Review

Cameratown have just reviewed the blast from the past in digital form that is the recently-announced Rolleiflex MiniDigi digital camera. “It would be easy to drag this camera through the mud if image quality and features were the real reason to own this camera. However, the truth is, this camera…

Olympus E-300Olympus America Press Release 23/11/04

Olympus Announces Prices For EVOLT E-300 Digital SLR Camera, Digital Specific Consumer Lenses, And Accessories  
 
100% “Designed-for-Digital” SLR Comes with Lens for Under $1000 for World-Class Image Quality; Camera Packs Dust Protection and an 8-Megapixel Imaging Sensor into Innovative Compact, Low-Profile Body

Melville, NY, November 23, 2004 - Today Olympus officially announced that the 8.0-megapixel EVOLT E-300 Digital SLR, the first 100 percent “digital-from-the-ground-up” consumer SLR system with interchangeable digital specific lenses, will be sold with a lens for $999.99. Incorporating a newly designed compact body featuring the Dust Reduction system pioneered on the professional E-1 SLR body, the EVOLT delivers the versatility, durability and reliable performance of an SLR that isn’t just for the pros - now it’s for photographers of all skill levels at a price they can afford.

Camera, Zuiko Digital Specific Lenses, and Accessories Prices:
EVOLT E-300 Digital SLR: $999.99 estimated street price including the 14-45mm lens ($1399 MSRP)
14-45mm f3.5 - f5.6 Lens: $249.95 estimated street when purchased separate from EVOLT ($299 MSRP)
40-150mm f3.5 - f4.5 Lens: $279.95 estimated street ($349 MSRP).
HLD-3 Battery Holder: $99.99 estimated street price ($119.95 MSRP).
Semi Hard Case CS3-SH (for EVOLT E-300 and 14.45mm or 14-54mm zooms): $49.95 estimated street price ($59.95 MSRP).

Olympus America Press Release 23/11/04 Olympus Announces Prices For EVOLT E-300 Digital SLR Camera, Digital Specific Consumer Lenses, And Accessories 100% “Designed-for-Digital” SLR Comes with Lens for Under $1000 for World-Class Image Quality; Camera Packs Dust Protection and an 8-Megapixel Imaging Sensor into Innovative Compact, Low-Profile Body Melville, NY, November…