Magix has released PhotoStory on DVD Deluxe 2013. The software allows users to transform their photos and videos from digital cameras, smartphones and camcorders into movies easier than ever before, the company says. Novelties include automatic image optimisation, 500MB of online storage space in the Magix Online Album. The program is available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of £69.99. Click through / scroll down for a comprehensive list of features and improvements.

Samyang Europe has announced the release date of the Samyang T1.5 85mm AS IF UMC lens. Featuring a fast maximum aperture, an internal focusing system and an optical formula that comprises nine elements in seven groups, the Samyang T1.5 85mm AS IF UMC is part of the manuafacturer’s VDSLR lens range. Like Samyang’s other VDSLR lenses, the aperture and focus rings have been designed in a way to ensure compatibility with professional follow focus devices. The Samyang T 1.5 85mm AS IF UMC will go on sale in late November / early December in Canon, Nikon and Sony versions. Those that wish to lay their hands on the new lens before the official launch can take part in a competition organised by Samysng Europe for a chance to win one of the first copies. For details visit the website below.

Adobe has posted Lightroom 4.3 and Adobe Camera Raw 7.3 as “release candidates.” These updates add full support for the Nikon D600, Canon PowerShot S110,
Canon PowerShot G15, Canon PowerShot SX50 HS, Casio Exilim EX-ZR1000, Casio Exilim EX-FC300S, Olympus PEN E-PL5, Olympus PEN E-PM2, Olympus Sylus XZ-2 iHS, Panasonic DMC-GH3, Pentax K-5 II, Pentax K-5 IIs and Pentax Q10 (pictured). Additionally, they incorporate various bug fixes and new profiles for one Canon, one Pentax and twenty-four Leica lenses. Furthermore, Lightroom 4.3 RC adds support for HiDPI displays within the Develop module.

Website: Adobe Camera Raw 7.3 RC
Website: Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4.3 RC

Transcend has released a new Wi-Fi SD memory card that adds wireless capability to an SDHC-compatible digital camera. The Wi-Fi SD card operates in two modes: Direct Share or Internet Mode. Ideal for use on outdoor photo shoots and vacations, Direct Share Mode is automatically activated as soon as the camera is powered on, allowing peer-to-peer connections between camera and mobile device in any location. Thanks to the exclusive Wi-Fi SD App, users can quickly switch to Internet Mode, which allows the Transcend Wi-Fi SD card to connect to a nearby Internet hotspot or even use the personal/portalbel hotspot feature of smartphones and tablets. Featuring the SDHC Class 10 speed rating, Transcend Wi-Fi SD cards are available in 16GB (US$69) or 32GB (US$99) capacities.

Fuji has issued a firmware update for the Fujifilm X-Pro1 compact system camera. Version 2.01 incorporates the following improvements and fixes:

1. Adds full compatibility with the Fujinon XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R.lens

2.Improves the auto-focus accuracy of the Fujinon XF60mm lens and fixes a couple of bugs with the M- Mount Adapter and magnified view in manual focus mode.

Website: Fujifilm

Fuji has released a firmware update for the Fujifilm X-E1 compact system camera. Version 1.01 incorporates following improvements and fixes:

1. Adds full compatibility with the Fujinon XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R.lens

2.Improves the auto-focus accuracy of the Fujinon XF60mm lens and fixes a bug with the M- Mount Adapter

Website: Fujifilm

OmegaBrandess and Phottix have announced a new Phottix Odin TTL Flash Trigger set comprising one transmitter, two receivers, six AA batteries plus several cables and adapters. Available for Canon, Nikon and Sony, the Phottix Odin TTL Flash Trigger set enables photographers to wirelessly trigger their system flashes while retaining full TTL functionality, as well as remotely control power and flash zoom settings. The four-channel, 2.4 GHz, transmitter and receiver units work at ranges of more than 100 metres and accept standard AA batteries.

Lomography Gallery Store Manchester has partnered with Leicester LoFi to deliver a black-and-white film processing workshop. Taking place in-store this Saturday, 10th November, the workshop will teach participants about using the Diana F+ camera, allowing them to shoot an entire roll of film and develop it once they’re done with the shooting part. The Lomography Gallery Store Manchester is located at 20 Oldham Street, Manchester, Lancashire, M1 1JN. Tickets are £20.

DxO Optics Pro 8.0.1 now supports the Nikon1 J2 and the Sony NEX-5R. Additionally, the new update brings 200 new DxO Optics Modules supporting Canon, Konica-Minolta, Nikkor, Sigma, Sony, and Tamron lenses for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Samsung, and Sony cameras. This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 8, as well as for photographers who purchased a license for DxO Optics Pro 7 after 1 September 2012.

JP Distribution has announced the UK launch of BlackRapid’s new Wrist Strap and Metro Strap. Featuring a more compact shoulder pad for easier packing and convenient storage, the Metro (£45) is the compact version of the R-Strap, recommended for photographers who use compact system cameras and serious compacts. The Wrist Strap (£20. pictured) is designed as an add-on for BlackRapid’s R-Strap systems; it hooks naturally to any camera with an existing (separately sold) BlackRapid FastenR.

Starting today, the members area of the World Photography Organisation (WPO) website will accessible to everyone until 1st December. Those interested in learning about the otherwise exclusive content - which is normally only available to Advanced and Premium members - only need to sign up for a free WPO Basic membership to take advantage of this limited-time offer. The website’s unique content will update frequently and will include a host of regular features including PhotoTALK, a monthly series of live debates about issues facing photographers today. Alongside PhotoTALK, other new website content includes the Sue Steward Column, an Industry Insider feature and exclusive podcast interviews. Basic members can receive a 15% discount if they upgrade their membership to Advanced or Premium by 30 November.

Tamron has announced a new software application for Tamron’s recent SP series lenses. The program is based on Silkypix Developer Studio 4.0, produced by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory. The Tamron version provides a range of functions such as correcting aberrations (chromatic aberrations of magnification, distortion, peripheral light fall-off), based on the optical data. Lens data is available for SP series Tamron lenses launched since March 2012. Silkypix Developer Studio 4.0 for Tamron will be available from 30th November at the website below.

Jessops has just announced that it is the first UK photo high street outlet to have stock of the new Samsung Galaxy Camera. Featuring 21x optical zoom, a 16-megapixel BSI sensor, the latest Android OS (4.1 Jelly Bean) and 3G+Wi-Fi connectivity; the Samsung Galaxy Camera can be yours for £399.99.

The FocusMaker is a new-generation DSLR follow focus device. “FocusMaker is designed to fit the needs of everyone from serious amateurs to professional users of DSLR cameras who want the ability to pinpoint focus in a simple way when shooting,” says Nikolaj Bestle, inventor of FocusMaker. “It offers a versatile and easy way to adjust the focus when filming without the need for additional rail mounting - at an affordable price.” The FocusMaker can be purchasedvia the website below for $89.

Sigma has announced the recommended retail price of the new Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM lens. Equipped with a HyperSonic Motor (HSM), brass bayonet mount and internal focusing system, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM features Super Multi-Layer coating, FLD and SLD glass elements and a large maximum aperture. As promised, each Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM will be individually checked using the company’s newly developed proprietary A1 MTF measuring system. The lens will be available in Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sigma and Sony fit, for £799.99/$899.00 including a hood and carrying case.

Blurb has released two additions to its on-demand print products – Magazines and Brochures. “Until now, those looking to create high-quality product catalogues, promotional collateral, look books, brand presentations and brochures in small quantities were limited by minimum order requirements, resulting in high, unattainable costs,” the company says. “Blurb’s new on-demand offering allows consumers and businesses to print low-volume orders in one week, which can be easily updated and reprinted. This results in lower development costs, no inventory management or storage costs, and much less waste.” Blurb Magazines are perfect-bound 20-to-240-page publications developed for creative and editorial content, while Blurb Brochures - designed for business use - range from 4 to 48 pages and offer saddle-stitched binding and a selection of cover finishes. Magazines are priced from £6.95 for a 20-page publication whilst brochures are available from £3.95 for the 4-page option. Volume discounts for both start at 7 copies.

To celebrate the launch of its new Expression Premium photo printer range, Epson is asking amateur photographers to upload photos that capture a sporting memory from this year. “It can be absolutely anything, from holing a birdie putt on the 18th green at your local golf course or your children playing rugby in the park, to you celebrating your favourite football team’s victory in the pub with friends or in the stadium itself,” the company says. “As long as it depicts a memory of a sporting occasion from this year, Epson wants to see it.” The winner, whose photo will be judged to best capture a sporting memory from 2012, will be able to watch the Manchester United team train, dine in the city’s best restaurants and get a taste of the city’s night-life. The three-day trip will be rounded off by watching Manchester United’s stars take on Reading Football Club in March 2013. Entries close on 31 December 2012. Not that the competition is only open to people aged 21 or above on 1 January 2013 and resident in the UK. As always we suggest that you read the rules before entering your work.