News
ePhotoZine have just reviewed the Sigma 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC lens.
“With a zoom ratio of just under 7:1 this lens covers a good range without going to the extremes of the 10+ times zooms. As with most wide ranging zoom lenses, the performance is better at the shorter end with some fall-off in performance as focal length is extended. However, the fall-off in this lens is kept to a minimum with a good starting point at the short end. Distortion is well controlled for the class of lens, with minimum barrel at the short end moving to negligible pincushion at the longer length. Sigma have learnt well how to control chromatic aberrations and none of their new designs have suffered from the anomaly. That includes this design, which showed no significant signs throughout the range.”
ePhotoZine have just reviewed the Sigma 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC lens. “With a zoom ratio of just under 7:1 this lens covers a good range without going to the extremes of the 10+ times zooms. As with most wide ranging zoom lenses, the performance is better at the shorter end with…
DPNow have today reviewed the new Wacom Graphire Bluetooth, a 6” x 8” wireless pen tablet that can be used up to 30 feet away from your computer.
“Previous Graphire mouse models had been criticised for an unpleasantly hard feel when pushed around the tablet area and the new fabric base certainly helps, but I never once felt that the Graphire Bluetooth mouse was a patch on my Logitech MouseMan Optical. The Graphire mouse felt cumbersome and heavy in its movement and without precision. And to make matters worse, a standard optical mouse won’t work on the surface of the tablet because it is transparent. “
DPNow have today reviewed the new Wacom Graphire Bluetooth, a 6” x 8” wireless pen tablet that can be used up to 30 feet away from your computer. “Previous Graphire mouse models had been criticised for an unpleasantly hard feel when pushed around the tablet area and the new fabric…
DCResource have published the first online review of the Canon IXUS 750 digital camera (also known as the Canon PowerShot SD550), which has 7.1 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens.
“With the PowerShot SD550 Digital ELPH, Canon has taken a great camera and made it even better. While current SD500 owners need not rush out and buy it, those of you looking for a compact and very capable point-and-shoot camera should take a close look at the SD550. The PowerShot SD550 (also known as the IXUS 750) is a compact (but not tiny) and very stylish metal camera. Its perpetual curve design and large LCD display will catch the eyes of those around you. That large LCD display (2.5”) is one of the new features on the camera, and while it’s big in size, the resolution could be better. One nice thing about it is that it works very well in low light situations, unlike most screens. And, unlike most of the competition, Canon has managed to keep an optical viewfinder on the camera.”
Website: DCResource - Canon IXUS 750 Review
Website: Read my Canon Digital Ixus 750 Review
DCResource have published the first online review of the Canon IXUS 750 digital camera (also known as the Canon PowerShot SD550), which has 7.1 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. “With the PowerShot SD550 Digital ELPH, Canon has taken a great camera and made it even…
BIOS are the first website to review the Epson Stylus Photo R220 printer, which includes a direct CD and DVD printing function and uses MicroPiezo technology delivering a resolution of up to 5760x1440 dpi.
“Epson’s latest inkjet photo printer is designed for home users looking to produce cost-effective photographs up to A4 in size, as well as personalise printable CDs and DVDs. It’s far from being the most complete photo studio, but its low cost, wide range of features and above-average print quality make it a solid choice for general photo printing duties. Competitively priced, easy to use and relatively economical to run, the Stylus Photo R220 is hard to beat for the money.”
Website: BIOS - Epson Stylus Photo R220 Review
BIOS are the first website to review the Epson Stylus Photo R220 printer, which includes a direct CD and DVD printing function and uses MicroPiezo technology delivering a resolution of up to 5760x1440 dpi. “Epson’s latest inkjet photo printer is designed for home users looking to produce cost-effective photographs up…
DigiCamReview have reviewed both the Pentax Optio S55 and S45, 5 and 4 megapixel cameras respectively with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens.
“Image quality is good, the images have saturated colour, good contrast and good detail - however there is some purple fringing, and some images were quite soft. Images tend to come out of the camera looking very good. The camera did a good job focusing the majority of the time, only slightly struggling in low light. Noise was well controlled and low upto ISO200 but at ISO400 resulted in slight loss of detail. I did not notice vignetting in photos.”
Website: DigiCamReview - Pentax Optio S55 / S45 Review
DigiCamReview have reviewed both the Pentax Optio S55 and S45, 5 and 4 megapixel cameras respectively with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. “Image quality is good, the images have saturated colour, good contrast and good detail - however there is some purple fringing, and some…
Ulead PhotoImpact 11 image editing software is announced today. The box version and electronic download (ESD) of PhotoImpact 11 will be available via the Ulead website at www.ulead.co.uk for £49.99 inc Vat at the beginning of October. The boxed version of Ulead PhotoImpact 11 will also be available from PC World, Staples, Jessops, Microwarehouse, Dabs.co, Saversoftware and Amazon.co.uk.
Ulead Press Release
Ulead Introduces New Version of PhotoImpact Image Editing Software.
PhotoImpact 11 answers the needs of professional photographers while providing new interface modes that make it simple for beginners
Northampton September 23rd 2005, Ulead Systems, Inc., a 16-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, today announced the release of Ulead® PhotoImpact® 11, Ulead’s flagship PC image-editing software offering easy-to-use tools for a wide range of personal and professional image and photo-editing needs. The latest version introduces an all-new interface system providing distinct modes for beginners and advanced users along with 16-bit editing/RAW support and next-generation tools for high-end digital photography and creative design.
Ulead PhotoImpact 11 image editing software is announced today. The box version and electronic download (ESD) of PhotoImpact 11 will be available via the Ulead website at www.ulead.co.uk for £49.99 inc Vat at the beginning of October. The boxed version of Ulead PhotoImpact 11 will also be available from PC…
Adobe is about to release version 3.2 of Camera Raw for Photoshop CS2. Support for the following cameras has been added from Camera Raw 3.1 to 3.2.
* Panasonic - DMC-LX1, DMC-FZ30
* Hasselblad - H2D (DNG)
* Konica Minolta - Alpha Sweet Digital (Japan), Alpha-5 Digital (China), Maxxum 5D (USA), Dynax 5D (Europe)
* Leaf - Valeo 17, Aptus 22
* Leica - D-Lux 2, Digital-Modul-R (DNG)
* Nikon - D2Hs, D70s, D50, Coolpix 8400, Coolpix 8800
Website: Adobe Camera RAW 3.2
Adobe is about to release version 3.2 of Camera Raw for Photoshop CS2. Support for the following cameras has been added from Camera Raw 3.1 to 3.2. * Panasonic - DMC-LX1, DMC-FZ30 * Hasselblad - H2D (DNG) * Konica Minolta - Alpha Sweet Digital (Japan), Alpha-5 Digital (China), Maxxum 5D…
Epson Japan have today announced the Epson P-4000 Photo Viewer, a new 80Gb version of the popular Epson P-2000 portable storage device. As well as the increased storage capacity, Epson P4000 adds a slightly more powerful powerful 2600 mAh battery and support for MPEG 4 files and MP3 / AAC files up to 320 kbps. With the ever increasing megapixel size of digital cameras, the P-4000 is a smart move by Epson. The Epson P-4000 is expected to cost 70,000 Yen when it launches at the start of October in Japan.
Website: Epson Japan - Photo Fine Player [P-4000]
Website: SLRWorld.com
Website: Read my Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer Review
Epson Japan have today announced the Epson P-4000 Photo Viewer, a new 80Gb version of the popular Epson P-2000 portable storage device. As well as the increased storage capacity, Epson P4000 adds a slightly more powerful powerful 2600 mAh battery and support for MPEG 4 files and MP3 / AAC…
Sony has announced plans to cut 10,000 jobs, roughly 7% of its global workforce, by 2008, with 11 manufacturing plants shutting their doors. Setbacks in the digital music and flat screen TV markets are to blame, as new CEO Sir Howard Stringer attempts to turn the fortunes of the ailing company around.
“In its announcement, which came after the close of trading on the Tokyo stock market, Sony said it expected a group net loss of 10bn yen ($90 million) in the current fiscal year. Over the past five years, Sony shares have lost two thirds of their value. In Thursday’s trading, its share price fell 2.2%.”
Sony has announced plans to cut 10,000 jobs, roughly 7% of its global workforce, by 2008, with 11 manufacturing plants shutting their doors. Setbacks in the digital music and flat screen TV markets are to blame, as new CEO Sir Howard Stringer attempts to turn the fortunes of the ailing…
Ulead MediaStudio Pro 8 video editing software is released. The box and electronic download versions of MediaStudio Pro 8 are available at $399.99 through retail channels and Ulead Websites. Current MediaStudio Pro users can upgrade for $249.99, and users of VideoStudio and DVD Workshop can upgrade for $299.99, also from Ulead Websites.
Ulead Systems Press Release
New version 8 offers complete HDV and DV editing solution in an intuitive package
Taiwan - September 20, 2005 - Ulead Systems, Inc., a 16-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, today announced it has started shipping Ulead® MediaStudio® Pro 8, the latest version of Ulead’s professional video editing software. The new release offers a professional, yet easy-to-use, approach to video editing suitable for video enthusiasts, newly-professional video editors, documentary filmmakers, wedding/event videographers and media producers in corporate and education.
“Version 8 is the most significant upgrade in the history of MediaStudio Pro,” said Lewis Liaw, president of Ulead Systems. “We listened carefully to what our loyal users want, and the result is a future-ready application with extensive HDV support, a streamlined workflow and ground breaking features such as the new Smart Compositor.”
Ulead MediaStudio Pro 8 video editing software is released. The box and electronic download versions of MediaStudio Pro 8 are available at $399.99 through retail channels and Ulead Websites. Current MediaStudio Pro users can upgrade for $249.99, and users of VideoStudio and DVD Workshop can upgrade for $299.99, also from…
Fujifilm have released a firmware update (version 2.18) for the FinePix S3 Pro digital SLR.
This Firmware update incorporates the following enhancements:
- When upgrading from ver.2.16:
1) Updates for the setting of the sharpness for JPEG images in the PC control mode.
- When upgrading from ver.2.12 these additional enhancements are made:
2) Improves color accuracy at slow shutter speeds when using Nikon flash units.
3) Updates for custom white balance function and exposure control function in the PC control mode.
- When upgrading from ver.1.00 these additional enhancements are made:
4) Adds PC control function (needed to update Hyper- Utility Software HS-V2 Ver.3.1)
5) Updates AUTO ROTATE function
6) Updates the function for AF-S Nikon and AF-VR Nikon lens. (Will function properly even if the power switch is on when the lens is attached)
7) Updates the compatibility for high capacity of storage media.
Website: FujiFilm FinePix S3 Pro Firmware
Fujifilm have released a firmware update (version 2.18) for the FinePix S3 Pro digital SLR. This Firmware update incorporates the following enhancements: - When upgrading from ver.2.16: 1) Updates for the setting of the sharpness for JPEG images in the PC control mode. - When upgrading from ver.2.12 these additional…
Google Press Release
GOOGLE RELEASES PHOTO MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE ACROSS EUROPE TO HELP USERS ORGANISE, EDIT AND SHARE PICTURES
Picasa Offers Editing Tools, Advanced Effects, Better Organization and CD Burning for Digital Photo Users - For Free
Google Inc. today released Picasa in six European countries (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and The Netherlands). Picasa is a free photo management software application that makes it simpler than ever for people to, edit and share their digital pictures. Available at http://picasa.google.co.uk and other relevant country URLs, Google’s Picasa offers photographers of all skill levels easy-to-use tools that automatically organise even the largest photo collections on a PC and turn average snapshots into great pictures.
Google Press Release GOOGLE RELEASES PHOTO MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE ACROSS EUROPE TO HELP USERS ORGANISE, EDIT AND SHARE PICTURES Picasa Offers Editing Tools, Advanced Effects, Better Organization and CD Burning for Digital Photo Users - For Free Google Inc. today released Picasa in six European countries (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain…
ePhotoZine have reviewed the new Tamron SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF), a new high performance ultra wideangle zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
“This lens goes a long way in overcoming the biggest drawback of the cropped digital sensor, that of wide-angle coverage. The light weight, which possibly compromises build quality slightly, reduces the penalty incurred by carrying extra lenses. The only disappointment was the quality drop-off towards the edges of the image, but many compositions can cope with the anomaly. The front element does not rotate during use, making the use of filters, which are the common 77mm size, easy to use. Filter systems need to be 100mm or more though in order to cope with the wide angle of view.”
Website: ePhotoZine - Tamron SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) Review.
ePhotoZine have reviewed the new Tamron SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF), a new high performance ultra wideangle zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors. “This lens goes a long way in overcoming the biggest drawback of the cropped digital sensor, that of…
DIWA member and German website digitalkamera.de have published the first review of the Fujifilm FinePix S9500 Zoom, a new 9 megapixel digital camera with a 28-300mm lens with twist-barrel zoom control.
Website: digitalkamera.de - Fujifilm FinePix S9500 Zoom Review
Website: Read my Fujifilm Finepix S9500 Zoom Review
DIWA member and German website digitalkamera.de have published the first review of the Fujifilm FinePix S9500 Zoom, a new 9 megapixel digital camera with a 28-300mm lens with twist-barrel zoom control. Website: digitalkamera.de - Fujifilm FinePix S9500 Zoom Review Website: Read my Fujifilm Finepix S9500 Zoom Review Check the Latest…
DigitalCameraInfo have published their review of the Nikon D50, a new affordable 6.1 megapixel digital SLR.
“The Nikon D50 is a solid contender among entry level DSLRs, providing users with a 6 megapixel APS-format sensor, 2.5 frames-per-second burst mode, vibrant color rendition, and excellent noise performance. Available at an MSRP of $899.95 and selling for around $700 or even below online, the D50 falls into an increasingly crowded segment of the DSLR realm. Supplying a 2-inch, 130,000 pixel LCD and strong autofocus system, the rugged consumer-level DSLR is even smaller than the D70 and contains a very deep feature set and host of manual controls that will help first time digital SLR owners hone their skills and grow into the medium.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Nikon D50 Review
Website: Read my Nikon D50 Review
DigitalCameraInfo have published their review of the Nikon D50, a new affordable 6.1 megapixel digital SLR. “The Nikon D50 is a solid contender among entry level DSLRs, providing users with a 6 megapixel APS-format sensor, 2.5 frames-per-second burst mode, vibrant color rendition, and excellent noise performance. Available at an MSRP…
The Czech website Digineff are the first to review the new Kodak Easyshare P880 digital camera. The Kodak Easyshare P880 is an 8 megapixel model with wide-angle 24–140 mm zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD screen.
Website: Digineff - Kodak Easyshare P880 Review
The Czech website Digineff are the first to review the new Kodak Easyshare P880 digital camera. The Kodak Easyshare P880 is an 8 megapixel model with wide-angle 24–140 mm zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD screen. Website: Digineff - Kodak Easyshare P880 Review Check the Latest Prices for the Kodak…
Tokina Press Release
The Tokina AT-X 100 PRO D is a new macro lens capable of life-sized (1:1) reproduction at 11.8 in. (30 cm). The lens’ multi-coating have been re-engineered to match the highly reflective silicon based CCD and CMOS sensors in today’s digital SLR cameras. This lens gives the best of both worlds because optics still give full coverage and excellent sharpness on 35mm film. A macro lens that can handle both the digital and film worlds with ease.
The AT-X 100 PRO D also has a very convenient focus limiter switch that can lock the focus out of the closes focus making it focus faster when used as a moderate telephoto lens that is excellent portraits as well.
Tokina Press Release The Tokina AT-X 100 PRO D is a new macro lens capable of life-sized (1:1) reproduction at 11.8 in. (30 cm). The lens’ multi-coating have been re-engineered to match the highly reflective silicon based CCD and CMOS sensors in today’s digital SLR cameras. This lens gives the…
CNET have enthusiastically reviewed the Panasonic DMC-LX1, an 8.4 megapixel digital camera with a 4x Leica optical zoom lens equivalent to 28-112mm, optical image stabilizer and a 2.5 inch LCD screen.
“Aside from its 8-megapixel resolution, the compact Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 justifies its premium price with a tasty array of too-cool-for-school features, including world’s first incorporation of a 16:9 CCD imager, a crisp 4X Leica zoom lens that starts at a commendably wide 28mm, and a nimble optical stabilization system that steadies your camera reliably at slow shutter speeds. It also has an enthusiast-friendly collection of features such as full manual control over focus and exposure, robust burst modes, and both TIFF and raw file formats.”
Website: CNET - Panasonic DMC-LX1 Review
Website: Read my Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 Review
CNET have enthusiastically reviewed the Panasonic DMC-LX1, an 8.4 megapixel digital camera with a 4x Leica optical zoom lens equivalent to 28-112mm, optical image stabilizer and a 2.5 inch LCD screen. “Aside from its 8-megapixel resolution, the compact Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 justifies its premium price with a tasty array of…
TrustedReviews have published their review of the 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1.
“The new style is immediately apparent from the pictures accompanying this review. Everyone who has seen this camera while I have been testing it has commented on how good it looks. The X1 is available in three coloured finishes; an attractive wine red, a stunning gunmetal black and the satin-finish silver version pictured here. The all-metal case is has a futuristic rounded capsule-like design that slips easily into a shirt pocket, with a metal cover over the lens and a flat one-piece rear panel covering the big 2.5in, 118,000-pixel LCD monitor. There are indicator lights concealed behind the mirror finish of the rear panel, and the minimalist control layout is both attractive an easy to use. It’s an extremely pretty camera, although the glossy finish does show up fingerprints, so you’ll be polishing it a lot.”
Website: TrustedReviews - Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1 Review
TrustedReviews have published their review of the 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1. “The new style is immediately apparent from the pictures accompanying this review. Everyone who has seen this camera while I have been testing it has commented on how good it looks. The X1 is available in three…
The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just reviewed the new Casio EX-Z750 Exilim Zoom, which has a 7.2 megapixel CCD sensor, large 2.5-inch LCD screen and offers a battery life of 325 shots.
Website: Index Digicam - Casio EX-Z750 Exilim Zoom Review
The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just reviewed the new Casio EX-Z750 Exilim Zoom, which has a 7.2 megapixel CCD sensor, large 2.5-inch LCD screen and offers a battery life of 325 shots. Website: Index Digicam - Casio EX-Z750 Exilim Zoom Review Check the Latest Prices for the Casio EX-Z75…