News
REALVIZ Press Release
Latest Release of Award-winning Panorama Software Adds Range of New Features, Including Full Automatic Engine
Sophia Antipolis, France (September 13, 2005) - REALVIZ has confirmed, that they will begin shipment of version 5 of their multi award-winning panorama software, Stitcher this month. Stitcher is a professional-level application, used by thousands of professional photographers, architects, multimedia and 3D artists worldwide, and enables the creation of superb wide-angle panoramas for the Web, film, print, and 3D.
Stitcher 5 represents a considerable advance on the current version of the software, with a range of exciting new features, including most notably the introduction of a full automatic stitching engine, as well as a completely new user interface, with a full-screen 3D window to maximize the working area.
REALVIZ Press Release Latest Release of Award-winning Panorama Software Adds Range of New Features, Including Full Automatic Engine Sophia Antipolis, France (September 13, 2005) - REALVIZ has confirmed, that they will begin shipment of version 5 of their multi award-winning panorama software, Stitcher this month. Stitcher is a professional-level application…
OnAsia Press Release
ONASIA PHOTOGRAPHER MASARU GOTO WINS GRAND PRIZE AT ‘PHOTO CITY SAGAMIHARA’ FESTIVAL
SAGAMIHARA, Japan – September 16, 2005 – OnAsia photographer Masaru Goto has won the prestigious Grand Prize at this year’s 5th ‘Photo City Sagamihara’ General Photography Festival. The award was given for Masaru’s photo essay entitled ‘Smile in Despair – Stories from a Cambodian AIDS Ward.’
One of Japan’s leading photojournalists, Masaru has previously won the 2002 Fifty Crows documentary photography award for his coverage of human rights issues in Columbia. His work places heavy emphasis on highlighting pressing human rights and social issues.
Having covered Cambodia’s civil war in the late 1990s, Masaru later turned his attention to the plight of Cambodia’s AIDS victims in early 2001.
OnAsia Press Release ONASIA PHOTOGRAPHER MASARU GOTO WINS GRAND PRIZE AT ‘PHOTO CITY SAGAMIHARA’ FESTIVAL SAGAMIHARA, Japan – September 16, 2005 – OnAsia photographer Masaru Goto has won the prestigious Grand Prize at this year’s 5th ‘Photo City Sagamihara’ General Photography Festival. The award was given for Masaru’s photo essay…
DIWA member Steves Digicams have published the first online review of the 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1.
“I was pleased with the X1’s ergonomics. Although this is the smallest model we have worked with from Konica Minolta, I found it was easy to hold (even with large hands), and one-handed shooting was no problem at all. Its metal exterior helps ensure it will stand the test of time, however it’s shinny finish is very prone to finger prints. Controls are arranged for quick and easy access and the menu system is logically organized. We especially like the ability to customize the Up/Down and Left/Right functions of the 4-way controller. Its large 2.5-inch LCD covers about 2/3 of the back side of the camera. Outdoors it works great with only a few angles that reflect the sun. However when shooting in low-ambient lighting the display fails to “gain up” making it difficult to see your subject in these conditions.”
Website: Steves Digicams - Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1 Review
DIWA member Steves Digicams have published the first online review of the 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE X1. “I was pleased with the X1’s ergonomics. Although this is the smallest model we have worked with from Konica Minolta, I found it was easy to hold (even with large hands), and…
DigitalCameraReview have just reviewed the new Samsung Digimax i5, a slim 5 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical internal zoom lens equivalent to 39-117mm and a 2.5” 230K-pixel high resolution LCD.
“The Samsung Digimax i5 is an attractive camera in a busy field of ultra-compact cameras. The inclusion of 50MB of internal memory is a real plus for this camera as is the excellent 2.5 inch LCD. However, slower than average shutter lag and average image quality need to be weighed against the positives in order for this to be a good choice for you.”
Website: DigitalCameraReview - Samsung Digimax i5 Review
DigitalCameraReview have just reviewed the new Samsung Digimax i5, a slim 5 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical internal zoom lens equivalent to 39-117mm and a 2.5” 230K-pixel high resolution LCD. “The Samsung Digimax i5 is an attractive camera in a busy field of ultra-compact cameras. The inclusion of 50MB…
Imaging Resource have taken a look at the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5, an ultra-slim 5.1 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical zoom lens and a 2.5 inch LCD screen.
“Sony cameras offer excellent features and performance, good build quality and great picture quality. Sony currently offers no fewer than five distinct lines of cameras, spanning an incredible range of features, price, and performance. In their “Compact” line, they’ve now added a new five-megapixel model that builds on the success of the preceding T1 model. With a 3x optical zoom lens, compact design, and very generous 2.5-inch LCD screen, the new DSC-T5 is about the thickness of a ladies’ compact and very pocket friendly. Automatic exposure control offers point-an-shoot ease, with a handful of scene modes for more difficult shooting situations.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 Review
Imaging Resource have taken a look at the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5, an ultra-slim 5.1 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical zoom lens and a 2.5 inch LCD screen. “Sony cameras offer excellent features and performance, good build quality and great picture quality. Sony currently offers no fewer than five distinct…
DIWA member and Czech website FotoAparat.cz have recently reviewed the new entry-level Konica Minolta Dynax 5D digital SLR camera.
Website: FotoAparat.cz - Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review
Website: Read my Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review
DIWA member and Czech website FotoAparat.cz have recently reviewed the new entry-level Konica Minolta Dynax 5D digital SLR camera. Website: FotoAparat.cz - Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review Website: Read my Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Write a Review of the…
DCResource have just reviewed the new Olympus mju DIGITAL 800 digicam.
“I have to admit that I wasn’t really excited about the Olympus Stylus 800 when I first took it out of the box. But after using it for a while I kind of grew to like it—well, most of it at least. While I think the 8 Megapixel resolution is going over the top (and the image quality suffers a bit as a result), the Stylus 800 is a competent compact camera that also happens to be weatherproof.”
Website: DCResource - Olympus mju DIGITAL 800 Review
DCResource have just reviewed the new Olympus mju DIGITAL 800 digicam. “I have to admit that I wasn’t really excited about the Olympus Stylus 800 when I first took it out of the box. But after using it for a while I kind of grew to like it—well, most of…
DCResource have reviewed the Panasonic DMC-FX9, a 6 megapixel compact digital camera with optical image stabilizer, 3x Leica lens and 2.5-inch LCD screen with 207,000 pixels.
“The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 may look like just another ultra-compact camera, but it has one feature that none of the competition has: image stabilization. Most people thing that’s only useful for ultra zoom cameras, but that’s not the case at all. The FX9’s OIS system will give you sharper photos in lower light conditions than a camera without it. That, along with the FX9’s other nice features, makes it a camera that I can definitely recommend.”
Website: DCResource - Panasonic DMC-FX9 Review
DCResource have reviewed the Panasonic DMC-FX9, a 6 megapixel compact digital camera with optical image stabilizer, 3x Leica lens and 2.5-inch LCD screen with 207,000 pixels. “The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 may look like just another ultra-compact camera, but it has one feature that none of the competition has: image stabilization…
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S2, an updated version of the S1 digital camera. The main changes to the 5 megapixel Nikon S2 are the addition of a weather-proof body and a sliding lens mechanism.
“Introduced only months after the S1, the Nikon Coolpix S2 is the continuation of a line of digital cameras that Nikon has deemed its “Style” line. The sleek aesthetic and slim profile is something we haven’t seen from Nikon until now. This 5 megapixel model includes flashy features such as a 3x optical zoom lens, a 2.5-inch LCD screen, 15 scene modes, and Nikon’s in-camera palette of technology: red-eye fix, face priority AF, and D-lighting compensation. The flashy features come with automatically oriented modes and controls. All of this comes in a splash-proof camera body that fits squarely in the palm of your hand. The sleek S2 comes with a CoolStation camera dock that has port connections for easy printing, uploading, and battery recharging. Announced in May, the Nikon Coolpix S2 retails for $449.95. “
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Nikon Coolpix S2 Review
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S2, an updated version of the S1 digital camera. The main changes to the 5 megapixel Nikon S2 are the addition of a weather-proof body and a sliding lens mechanism. “Introduced only months after the S1, the Nikon Coolpix S2 is the continuation of…
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60, which has a large 2.5inch LCD screen (but no optical viewfinder), 5 megapixels and a sliding lens cover.
“Physically sleek though it may be, this model is a no frills point-and-shoot that leaves little up to the user, and unlike other compacts of its type, the DiMAGE X60 lacks sophistication. There’s no viewfinder; instead the DiMAGE X60 serves up a 2.5-inch LCD screen. The DiMAGE X60 has a suggested price of $349.99 but can currently be found as low as $217 online. Yet at any price there is no memory card included; rather users are forced to depend on the camera’s 15 megabytes of internal memory or subsequently purchase an SD card. The X60 is not groundbreaking in any regard, but will provide those who lack technical awareness with an opportunity to attain decent images in a small, easily portable package. “
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 Review
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60, which has a large 2.5inch LCD screen (but no optical viewfinder), 5 megapixels and a sliding lens cover. “Physically sleek though it may be, this model is a no frills point-and-shoot that leaves little up to the user, and unlike other…
Czech website Digineff have just reviewed the new entry-level Konica Minolta Dynax 5D digital SLR camera.
Website: Digineff - Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review
Website: Read my Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review
Czech website Digineff have just reviewed the new entry-level Konica Minolta Dynax 5D digital SLR camera. Website: Digineff - Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review Website: Read my Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Review Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta Dynax 5D Write a Review of the Konica Minolta Dynax…
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new entry-level Pentax *ist DL digital SLR camera. The Pentax *ist DL is a 6.1 megapixel DSLR which features a 2.5 LCD screen and light 16 ounce body.
“The *istDL is a reasonable entry in the entry level DSLR market. The camera’s most unique features in that market, the 2.5-inch LCD and the ISO 3200 setting, are real strengths. For some shoppers, they should be enough to decide the issue. The *istDL’s other good qualities – very solid construction, relatively small size and clean design – are not unique in the market, but they are still very attractive. The *istDL is notably inferior to other sub-$1000 DSLRs in only two areas: its autofocus mechanism is less advanced than the Nikon and Canon offerings, and its handgrip is less comfortable than others. The autofocus issue is likely to be a substantial one to many users, but some people’s hands will be better suited to the handgrip than mine. “
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Pentax *ist DL Review
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new entry-level Pentax *ist DL digital SLR camera. The Pentax *ist DL is a 6.1 megapixel DSLR which features a 2.5 LCD screen and light 16 ounce body. “The *istDL is a reasonable entry in the entry level DSLR market. The camera’s most unique features in…
DCResource have cast their critical eye over the HP Photosmart 8250 photo printer, which features six individual ink cartridges and can print photos in just 14 seconds.
“While HP has ratcheted up the speed of its photo printing and finally separated its ink tanks by individual color, its photo quality has suffered slightly. Whereas the default prints from the HP 8150 were impressive (see our HP 8150 review), you’ll have to fiddle with the 8250’s settings to get best results. And you probably won’t want to print at the 8250’s fastest speeds—the quality isn’t great at all. Also, if you print a lot of black and white photos you may be disappointed with the bluish cast you’ll get from the 8250.”
Website: DCResource - HP Photosmart 8250 Review
DCResource have cast their critical eye over the HP Photosmart 8250 photo printer, which features six individual ink cartridges and can print photos in just 14 seconds. “While HP has ratcheted up the speed of its photo printing and finally separated its ink tanks by individual color, its photo quality…
ePhotoZine have just reviewed the Canon 17-40mm f/4L lens.
“As mentioned in the opening paragraph, the lens is almost legendary and does produce fine results. But with the ever-increasing resolution of high-end sensors and Canon’s recently stated intention to produce more full frame sensors, can this lens keep up with the game. It is widely recognised as a lens with good contrast and control of distortions and the handling of chromatic aberrations is pretty good also, so more interest during the test procedure was placed on the pure resolving power of the lens. The answer is that, as things stand at present, it is fine. But, and we are talking the top end of the existing cameras here (1Ds MkII at 16.7mp), any more resolution and the lens will start to struggle.”
ePhotoZine have just reviewed the Canon 17-40mm f/4L lens. “As mentioned in the opening paragraph, the lens is almost legendary and does produce fine results. But with the ever-increasing resolution of high-end sensors and Canon’s recently stated intention to produce more full frame sensors, can this lens keep up with…
Imaging Resource have reviewed the Fujifilm FinePix A350 Zoom, a new entry-level 5 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 1.7inch LCD screen.
“Known for great color and performance, Fujifilm 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 Fujifilm FinePix A350, a 5.2-megapixel digital camera, and its twin the FinePix A345, sporting 4.1 megapixels. The Fuji A350 carries on the value-leading tradition of Fujifilm digital cameras by offering a 5.2-megapixel CCD and 3x optical zoom lens at a low price, including a good-sized bright LCD monitor, Pict-Bridge support, two-second maximum exposure time and four preset scene modes. As you’d expect, the Fujifilm FinePix A350 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 enjoy immediately.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Fujifilm FinePix A350 Zoom Review
Imaging Resource have reviewed the Fujifilm FinePix A350 Zoom, a new entry-level 5 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 1.7inch LCD screen. “Known for great color and performance, Fujifilm has also carved out a niche for itself by consistently providing good-quality consumer digicams at rock-bottom prices. The…
The Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG lens is unveiled. The Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG lens can be used with both digital and film SLR cameras and offers a new multi layer lens coating and lens design to reduce flare and ghosting.
Sigma Japan Press Release
A large aperture standard zoom lens that covers from wide-angle to telephoto and ideal for full-frame digital SLR cameras.
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 28-105 F2.8-4 DG lens. This large aperture standard zoom lens provides superior performance both for Digital SLR Cameras and 35mm Film SLR Cameras. This standard zoom lens covers frequently used focal lengths from 28mm to 105mm and allows a large aperture of F2.8 at the 28mm focal length. It is very convenient for a wide range of applications including snap shots, indoor photography. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost, which is a common problem with digital cameras, and also creates an optimum color balance throughout the entire zoom range. The use of aspherical lens reduces various aberrations throughout the entire zoom range and improves optical performance. This lens has minimum focusing distance of 50cm (19.7 inches) throughout the entire zoom range and it has also maximum magnification of 1:5.5. Because the front of the lens does not rotate, circular polarizing filters and a petal-type hood can easily be used.
The Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG lens is unveiled. The Sigma 28-105 F2.8-4 DG lens can be used with both digital and film SLR cameras and offers a new multi layer lens coating and lens design to reduce flare and ghosting. Sigma Japan Press Release A large aperture standard zoom lens…
The Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG lens is announced. The Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG lens can be used with both digital and film SLR cameras and offers a new multi layer lens coating and lens design to reduce flare and ghosting.
Sigma Japan Press Release
Compact, large aperture zoom lens is ideal for digital and 35mm SLR cameras
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 28-70 F2.8-4 DG lens. This compact, large aperture zoom lens is ideal for digital and 35mm SLR cameras. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost, and also creates an optimum color balance through the entire zoom range. An aspherical lens element is used for excellent correction of distortion throughout the entire zoom range. This lens’ excellent performance makes it an ideal lens for Digital SLR Cameras as well as film SLR cameras. This standard zoom lens has a large aperture of F2.8 at 28mm focal length and yet it is compact and lightweight, with an overall length of 62.5mm (2.5”) and weight of 255g. (9oz.). Ideally suited for traveling, landscape photography and general photography. The supplied zoom hood can be used to obtain a superior light-blocking effect.
The Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG lens is announced. The Sigma 28-70mm F2.8-4 DG lens can be used with both digital and film SLR cameras and offers a new multi layer lens coating and lens design to reduce flare and ghosting. Sigma Japan Press Release Compact, large aperture zoom lens is…
The Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM lens is introduced. The Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths and fits both digital and film SLR cameras. Available for Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Konica Minolta cameras.
Sigma Japan Press Release
Fast aperture telephoto zoom lens that provides excellent optical performance for Digital SLR cameras and film SLR cameras
This telephoto zoom lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths. The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghosting, and also maintains minimal light-fall-off, superior peripheral brightness is ensured.
The Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM lens is introduced. The Sigma APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG HSM lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths and fits both digital and film SLR cameras. Available for Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Konica Minolta cameras. Sigma Japan Press Release…
Canon has launched a new website to promote its CMOS sensor, as used in the company’s new full-frame EOS 5D digital SLR camera. There are a number of sample images showing off the capabilities of Canon’s sensor, along with the usual marketing spin:
“Wide-angle lenses are an absolute necessity when you’re shooting in a tight spot or in a space too small to give you distance from your subject. The combination of these lenses and a 35mm full-frame sensor will give you more creative options by letting you exaggerate perspective or use larger depths of field. With a 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor that delivers an uncompromised angle of view, all these benefits can be yours to enjoy.”
Website: The World of Canon CMOS Sensors
Canon has launched a new website to promote its CMOS sensor, as used in the company’s new full-frame EOS 5D digital SLR camera. There are a number of sample images showing off the capabilities of Canon’s sensor, along with the usual marketing spin: “Wide-angle lenses are an absolute necessity when…
The Memorex Mega TravelDrive portable storage device is unveiled today. Offering 4Gbs of capacity in less than 2 inches of space, the Mega TravelDrive also features a pivoting USB connector. The Memorex Mega TravelDrive will be available in October for $149.99.
Memorex Press Release
‘Mega TravelDrive’ Delivers Best Combination of Size and Capacity
CERRITOS, Calif., Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/—Memorex introduces the Mega TravelDrive(TM), the latest addition to the award-winning family of TravelDrive portable storage devices. For business travelers or anyone with a laptop and a massive amount of data to store, the new Mega TravelDrive offers 4GB of capacity in less than a two-inch square—making it the smallest portable USB hard drive available.
At just 1.75” x 1.96” x .56”, the ultra-compact Mega TravelDrive is 20% smaller than today’s pocket hard drives. The Mega features a pivoting USB connector that easily plugs into your computer’s USB port on planes, trains or anywhere space is tight, without requiring an extra power supply. And with 4GB of capacity, consumers can store more than 8,000 digital photos; 1,200 songs in MP3 format; or tens of thousands of text files in this stylish, platinum-finish device. The Mega also features a blue LED indicator that flashes during data transfer. The product comes bundled with convenience accessories such as a protective, black carrying pouch and a USB cable.
The Memorex Mega TravelDrive portable storage device is unveiled today. Offering 4Gbs of capacity in less than 2 inches of space, the Mega TravelDrive also features a pivoting USB connector. The Memorex Mega TravelDrive will be available in October for $149.99. Memorex Press Release ‘Mega TravelDrive’ Delivers Best Combination of…