The Plugin Site Press Release 16/02/04

February 16, 2004 - The Plugin Site (http://www.ThePluginSite.com) is proud to announce Version 3.0 of Harry’s Filters for Windows. Harry’s Filters 3.0 is a free Photoshop-compatible plug-in containing 69 useful image effects. Harry’s Filters can be used with dozens of different image editing applications, e.g. Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, Photo-Paint, PhotoImpact and many others.

What’s New in Version 3.0
Harry’s Filters 3 includes 14 new filter effects, 30 new presets, a new blending feature with 20 blending modes and a new brightness slider. The preview was enlarged by 200% and several of the old filters have been improved. An incompatibility, which kept the previous version from fully working in Paint Shop Pro 8, has also been fixed.

The most intriguing enhancement in the new version is the Play feature, which displays animations in the preview. After pressing the Play button the current effect will be animated with random slider values. To make better use of this feature there are two combo boxes for choosing a frame-per-second value and one of five possible speeds. While the animation is displayed in the preview you can still use all controls, e.g. change the zoom, change a slider value, choose another effect and so on.

HP UK Press Release 16/02/04

Make an impression with the new HP Photosmart R707

Sleek and modern ergonomic styling plus a host of advanced features set the HP Photosmart R707 digital camera apart from the crowd  

London, FEBRUARY 16TH 2004 - HP (NYSE: HPQ) today announces the HP Photosmart R707, the first of the brand new R-series range, which deliver a combination of sleek design and high-functioning technical innovations, offering outstanding digital photography to all users.

The HP Photosmart R707 digital camera, with an impressive 5.1 MP, is a compact model, introducing HP?s distinctive new styling. With its brushed stainless steel front, asymmetric body styling, signature curves and “wave-style” fingergrip, this model features a well designed modern look and a host of unique elements, contributing to a fully featured digital camera which makes digital photography even more easy and enjoyable.

The winner of the 13th PhotographyBLOG Photo of the Week contest is Ologram with the entry “Loch Ard”. There are no prizes as such for this contest, but the winning photo is displayed on the PhotographyBLOG homepage for a week, and the winner can display the Photo of the Week logo on their website if they wish.

PhotographyBLOG visitor Martin Smith has emailed with a link that will appeal to the more technically minded amongst you. Microsoft have started a research project that will allow you to find out the exact characteristics of your camera and then correct any anomalies in post-processing. I was confused by about the third sentence, but I’m sure there are a few people out there who can explain it to me in simple layman’s terms :-)

Website: A Flexible New Technique for Camera Calibration

If like me you’re more than a little tired of reading about the latest and greatest digital camera, then a visit to the website A Picture’s Worth may be in order. In line with the idea that “a picture is worth a thousand words”, visitors to the site are invited to share the memories, emotions or creative stories triggered by a photograph of personal significance in the form of a photo-essay. A Picture’s Worth has been running since August 2003 and so far they have posted a new essay every day, so there’s a lot of of personal stories to dip into.

Website: A Picture’s Worth

Photo-i have now completed their interactive, multi-page review of the new Epson Perfection 4870 flatbed scanner, which should be in stores very soon.

“For medium and large format scans the 4870 produced outstanding quality, certainly good enough for any professional photographer to use on their work. The 4870 is a much cheaper option than buying a dedicated medium format film scanner. I loved Digital ICE and it works a treat on both transparencies and colour negative, this feature is going to save you a lot of retouching time. The EPSON Perfection 4870 at ?349 has to be one of the best bargains of the year.”

Website: Photo-i - Epson Perfection 4870 Scanner Review

DP-Now have published some more information about the interchangeable lens rangefinder digital camera that accepts Leica M-type lenses which was shown at the PMA show (a joint development by Epson and Cosina).

“What I can report is that the attention to detail in the design of the prototypes on display was very impressive. Although there is a LCD viewscreen on the back of the camera, from the front there is no hint that it’s a digital camera. On the top plate there is an intricately presented circular window that looks rather like a compass dial. It actually encloses a complicated looking arrangement of analogue exposure setting dials. Oh, and this is the first digital camera I have seen that appears to retain a film advance lever!”

Website: DP-Now - Epson/Cosina Interchangeable Lens Digital Rangefinder

Gateway Communications Press Release 16/02/04

New SnapChecker Target color reference is specially designed for performing color correction and control on digital imaging.

About 200 SnapChecker’s have been tested for various applications for over a year. Also limited test marketing has been done. “After very positive feedback from the field, we feel that the product is ready for the market” says Antti Taskinen of Gateway Communications.

The basic principle behind SnapChecker Target is the use of precise neutral grays with carefully selected colors that are close to “memory colors” for the human eye. SnapChecker colors have been selected to approximate skin color, reddish light brown and dark brown, as well as a green and blue that closely resemble natural grass and sky hues. By selecting colors more meaningful to human perception, the need for a complex and expensive target is eliminated, whilst at the same time allowing a very portable size.

DP-Now have published a great hands-on test of the 8 megapixel Canon PowerShot Pro 1 which was announced by Canon last Monday, just before the start of PMA.

“In the hand the camera feels good, with a nicely shaped, if small, grip. There is the same feel of solid construction that one experiences with the Power Shot G5. Indeed, if you are familiar with the G3 or G5, you will find yourself at home with the Pro 1 very quickly.”

Website: DPNow - Canon PowerShot Pro 1 Hands-on Test

In this week’s Sunday morning column Mike Johnston shares his thoughts with us on the PMA show:

“I have to admit I’m utterly dazzled by the torrent of news coming out of Las Vegas. Is digital exploding, or what?

If I remember correctly, it was 1998 when my doctor-brother showed up at a Chinese restaurant with a new plaything - a digital camera. I probably smiled with patronizing tolerance. The little thing had about two hundred pixels (2 centipixels?) and it took two minutes between the time you pushed the shutter button and image capture. A lot can happen in two minutes - John Kerry can eclipse Howard Dean, for instance.

I’m exaggerating again, of course…but not significantly. The fact is, in 1998 most photographers couldn’t use digital. The good cameras cost an amount that my little boy generically refers to as “a billion dollars,” and the consumer cameras were toys…”

Website: Sunday Morning Photographer: Digital Sizzles in the Desert

If you’re having trouble keeping up with the latest news from PMA 2004, then visit the PMA 2004 Roundup Page to browse all of the latest headlines. With over 70 announcements since the show started, there’s plenty for you to take a look at. It may not be as advanced as DPReview’s coverage (product photos beamed directly from the show floor!), but it is pretty comprehensive…

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG INTRODUCES 5-MEGAPIXEL MODEL TO ITS HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL V SERIES LINE OF DIGITAL CAMERAS

SECAUCUS, N.J., (January FebruaryXX, 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of the Digimax V5 five-megapixel digital camera, the latest introduction to the highly successful Digimax V Series range of compact digital cameras.  The V5 is one of three new models added to the Samsung Digimax V Series at the start of 2004, and is prices at just $349. 

“The launch of the V5 further demonstrates Samsung?s commitment to the digital still camera space,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, National Sales for Samsung Cameras.  “As the market for high-end, prosumer type compact digitals shifts to higher resolution models, Samsung continues to anticipate consumer demand and deliver top quality products at affordable price points.  The V5 is based largely on the design and feature sets of our familiar and highly-successful V3 and V4 models, so we expect it to be well received by consumers.”

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG CAMERA ADDS STYLE AND SUBSTANCE TO COMPACT DIGITAL RANGE WITH NEW DIGIMAX V-SERIES MODELS

V50 and V40 Packed with Power and Features in Stylish Chassis

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera will be packing quite a punch at this year?s PMA as it is set to introduce its newest Digimax cameras, the successors to the company’s popular flagship digital camera lineup. Following the success of the Samsung Digimax V4 and V3 models (unveiled at PMA in March, 2003) the new V50 and V40 propel the Digimax lineup to new heights, with new capabilities and features.

“The V50 and V40 represent the next generation of the highly successful V series line introduced at last year’s PMA show,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice PresidentNational Sales for Samsung Camera.  “With features like MPEG-4 video compression, a 4cm (wide) macro feature, a 2-inch swivel LCD and compatibility with multiple external memory formats, these cameras are ideal for virtually every application.  Of course, they also offer all of the signature features of our existing V series line, such as Schneider optics, compatibility with 9 different power sources and a host of manual controls”. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG DIGIMAX 530 DELIVERS QUALITY AND VERSATILITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera is proud to introduce the Digimax 530—a 5.0 megapixel digital camera that is big on quality and small on price.  A quality 5-megapixel auto focus digital camera with 3x optical and 4x digital zoom, the new Digimax 530 allows even the casual snap shooter to experience everything the 5-megapixel world has to offer without breaking the bank.  With an approximate street price of $279.99, the Digimax 530 is an incredible value. Its 1/1.8” CCD captures razor sharp images, and the 1.5” TFT LCD with multiple language support is ideal for image preview and review. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG LAUNCHES FULL-FEATURED, AFFORDABLE 3 AND 4 MEGAPIXEL DIGITAL CAMERAS IN DIGIMAX 370 AND 430

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera has always been known for bringing high-end technology to consumers at very competitive prices. The company has established a leadership position in the 35mm point and shoot category by delivering products that are the undisputed price/performance leaders in their respective classes.  The launch of its new Digimax 370 and 430 digital cameras at PMA 2004 underscores Samsung’s commitment to utilizing the same proven strategy in the digital still camera space. 

“The new Digimax 370 and 430 cameras epitomize our strategy of providing the consumer with a full complement of high-end features at affordable price points,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Camera.  “Both come equipped with a host of features and technologies that are commonly found in much more expensive digital cameras.  The 370 and 430 are perfect for the consumer who wants the quality of a 3 or4 megapixel camera without the hefty price tag that normally comes along with it.”

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG DIGIMAX 250 OFFERS STATE-OF-THE-ART FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY IN AN AFFORDABLE, EASY-TO-USE PACKAGE

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Consumers who want all of the latest features and technologies in an easy-to-use, affordable digital still camera are about to find what they’re looking for in the new Samsung Digimax 250 model.  Introduced at PMA 2004, the Samsung Digimax 250 is a compact, 2.1 megapixel digital camera with a sleek ergonomic design, 2x optical and 2x digital zoom, still and video image capture capabilities and a host of additional features and functions.  Best of all, it comes at an approximate street price of just $139.99, making it as easy to own as it is to use!

The Samsung Digimax 250 was designed to meet the needs of even the most budget-conscious consumers who want to experience everything the digital world has to offer.  With 2x optical and 2x digital zoom, multiple power sources, MPEG-4 video compression and a host of creative capabilities, there isn’t much that can’t be done with the Digimax 250. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG CAMERA INTRODUCES INCREDIBLY COMPACT, INCREDIBLY STYLISH CAMERA

SAMSUNG U-CA 401—Small in Stature but Big on Features

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA might be the scene for some of the most impressive sights around, but Samsung Camera is truly turning heads with the launch of its new U-CA 401 ultra compact digital camera. Sleek, compact and ultra thin (96.7mm x 60mm x 15mm), the U-CA 401 packs a ton of impressive features into a stylish body that’s small enough to take anywhere.  A 4 megapixel camera with 4x digital zoom, the U-CA 401 is destined to become the camera of choice for those who like to travel light, but record all of their experiences along the way.

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG CAMERA UNVEILS STYLISH, TINY, AFFORDABLE CAMERA FOR BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTHUSIASTS

SAMSUNG Digimax U-CA 3 Provides Professional Features at Affordable Price, Perfect For Youth Market

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA has always been the place to see what’s new in digital photography and get up close and personal with any new products before they hit the retail shelves.  This year is no exception, and Samsung Camera is doing its part to keep tradition alive with introducing its new Digimax U-CA 3 compact digital camera at the show. Aimed at the young photographer or the budding photo enthusiast, the U-CA 3 packs a range of professional features into one compact, affordable body, scarcely bigger than a cell phone.

“The U-CA 3 is the ideal product for today’s young, hip digital photo enthusiasts,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Cameras.  “This camera is stylish, easy to use and packed with a host of cool new features that bring digital creativity and personalization to a whole new level.  Like all of the Digimax cameras, the U-CA 3 is aggressively priced, and packed with all of the latest features and capabilities”.

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF INEXPENSIVE ENTRY LEVEL DIGITAL CAMERAS

Ideal for First Time Buyers and Promotional Purposes

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Samsung Digimax 401, 301 and 202 digital still cameras.  At 4.0, 3.14 and 2.0 effective megapixels respectively, the Digimax 401, 301 and 202 combine to form a new range of entry level compact digital still cameras designed specifically for first time users and promotional purposes.  Like all Samsung digital still cameras, each of these new models was designed to be the price/performance leader in its respective class.  With approximate street prices of $179.99 for the 401, $129.99 for the 301 and $99.99 for the 202, there is little doubt that these new models will easily achieve that objective. 

“Every Samsung Digimax model is designed to be the price/performance leader within its class,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President of Sales for Samsung Camera.  “From the V Series cameras at the highest end of the spectrum to these three models at the entry level position, consumers can count on Samsung cameras to offer all of the same features and functionalities as the other major manufacturers’ cameras—at lower price points.  Our strategy is to deliver a unique combination of quality AND value, and this new entry-level line typifies that approach”. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

THE DIGIMAX I-PACK RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM ION BATTERY - ANOTHER WORLD’S FIRST FROM SAMSUNG CAMERA

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung is proud to announce the world’s first rechargeable Lithium-Ion CR-series battery pack. Known as the Digimax Battery I-Pack, it can replace two conventional AA cells or a single CR-V3 battery in today’s digital cameras while providing the high voltage and low temperature performance they demand.  The I-Pack is compatible with numerous cameras yet is specifically designed as a power source for the Digimax series of digital cameras, including the V50, V5, 530, V40, V4, 430, 401, 370, V3, 250 and 202.

“No matter what kind of electronic devices consumers use today, the need for a reliable, long-lasting power source is universal,” said Ken Gerb, senior vice president of sales for Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc. “With the introduction of the new I-Pack rechargeable battery, we?ve delivered an ideal power solution for the majority of the cameras within the Digimax line.”