Canon Press Release 29/01/04

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 29 January 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the professional series EF28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM ultra high magnification zoom lens. With an approx. 11x zoom range covering everything from wide-angle to telephoto, Canon’s latest dust and moisture proof ‘white lens’ is designed to appeal to professional EOS photographers looking to reduce lens changes and the number of lenses they need to carry.

Canon Press Release 29/01/04

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 29 January 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the EF70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM telephoto zoom lens. A new triple-layered diffractive optical element (DO) has enabled Canon to produce a 70-300mm lens less than 10cm long. The lens also includes Canon’s Image Stabilisation technology to dramatically reduce camera shake, compensating for approximately three stops in shutter speed without any perceptible increase in image blur. A virtually silent ultra-sonic motor (USM) gives the lens extremely fast autofocus.

“This lens is symbolic of Canon’s leadership in precision optics”, said Mr. Komatsuzaki, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe, at the lens’ launch. “Canon stands alone as the only company to have successfully commercialised Diffractive Optical elements in camera lenses, and the results speak for themselves.”

Full time manual focusing, a circular aperture diaphragm, and a zoom ring lock mechanism to fix the lens at the shortest focal length are all built in. The lens boasts image quality approximating that of Canon’s L series professional lenses. It is likely to appeal to professional photojournalists and serious advanced amateurs with a need to contain the size and weight of equipment carried.

Canon Press Release 29/01/04

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 29 January 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the DVK-E2. Designed to work with the EOS-1Ds and new EOS-1D Mark II D-SLR cameras, the DVK-E2 provides the facility to prove that images taken with the EOS-1D Mark II have not been altered, tampered with or manipulated in any way. The DVK-E2 is the successor to Canon’s DVK-E1 and will work with both the EOS-1Ds and the EOS-1D Mark II.

Recent well-publicised cases involving image-tampering by news agencies have identified a strong need for a system capable of verifying the originality of digital photographs. Without such a kit it is impossible for an agency to identify whether or not a given image has been enhanced or manipulated.

ISO certification
With the capacity to detect the slightest (single bit) discrepancy, the DVK-E2 kit is expected to be popular amongst law enforcement, insurance, news and other agencies that have a need to verify the legitimacy of digital images. Canon is applying for ISO 15408 certification (evaluation criteria for IT security) for the Data Verification Kit to further validate its application. The acquisition of ISO 15408 certification will give international recognition to the originality of images shot with the EOS-1D Mark II or EOS-1Ds whilst in data verification mode.

How it works
The kit consists of a dedicated SM (secure mobile) card reader/writer and verification software. When the appropriate function (Personal Function 31) on the EOS-1D Mark II or EOS-1Ds is activated, a code based on the image contents is generated and appended to the image. When the image is viewed, the data verification software determines the code for the image and compares it with the attached code. If the image contents have been manipulated in any way, the codes will not match and the image cannot be verified as the original.

Compact and easy to use
The SM cards used with the kit are the same size as an SD card. The tiny SM card reader/writer is barely bigger than the cards it takes. It draws the power it requires from the USB port of the computer to which it is connected. The software is Windows 2000/XP compatible. Up to 100 images can be evaluated simultaneously, simply by selecting the images and clicking ‘Verify’.
The kit supports English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Chinese languages.

Photoxels have reviewed the 3.2 megapixel Minolta DiMAGE Z1. This digicam has a 10x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 38-380mm 35mm camera zoom, which in combination with the digital zoom offers a 40x zoom range.

“The Minolta DiMAGE Z1 shines in all respects. If you are learning about digital photography, or you are looking for the perfect present for someone who is starting out in digital photography, and you like its futuristic look, then you won’t go wrong with the Minolta Z1.”

Website: Photoxels - Minolta DiMAGE Z1 Review

BenQ Press Release 23/01/04

Ultra-fresh and exciting, the BenQ DC S30, my Digital Music Camera
 
Europe 23rd of January, 2004 ? BenQ proudly announces the BenQ DC S30. The BenQ DC S30 is one of the first in its class to combine the ability to take photographs, play music, record voice memos, and shoot continuous amount of video ? making it an all-in-one personal digital entertainment center. In addition, the BenQ S30 features 3.34 Mega-pixels, 3X optical zoom, and an 180? flip-out LCD preview screen.

Music On-The-Go
Not only can the BenQ DC S30 be used for taking photographs, but it also enables users to enjoy the integrated both FM radio and MP3 playback function to satisfy their needs and indulge in their favorite music. Furthermore, the BenQ DC S30 acquires an integrated speaker that allows play-out music and is bundled with Q-Music software for easy music editing. Also, with the fine MSRE (Metal Resonance Sound Effect) system, the DC S30 delivers superb audio quality despite its diminutive size, making you enjoy the excellent audio enjoyment.

Non-stop Enjoyment
Armed with a lithium-ion battery and unique DRS (Dual Recharge System), BenQ DC S30 users will no longer have to be dependent on recharging power indoor whilst using an adapter. With its DRS it is now possible to recharge outdoor by connecting an USB cable to your notebook to reload the battery life of your S30. Enjoyment regardless where you are! 

Ultra-hip Design, fresh and exciting
The BenQ DC S30 boasts a neatly outlined magnesium alloy casing with a smooth tasty-tangerine tone that shows freshness and energy with an unique personal style. The camera?s color LCD screen can flip-out a full 180? that gives users the flexibility to capture images from virtually any angle, including self-portraits.

Continuous Video Recording
The BenQ DC S30 has the ability to capture continuous lengths of video, making it a completely functional compact digital camcorder. Supporting the ASF format, the BenQ DC S30 not only provides advanced video quality; but also allows users to record longer with the same amount of storage. With a 256MB memory card, up to 70 minutes of incessant video can be stored. Voice memos can be added up to 20 seconds long to captured photographs. The BenQ S30 will be available in February.

She?s fresh, exciting, she?s so exciting to me, the new BenQ DC S30, my Digital Music Camera.

LetsGoDigital have been burning the midnight oil to bring you a very detailed and exclusive First Look at the Nikon D70 digital SLR, which was officially announced yesterday. As usual, LetsGoDigital’s article is impeccably presented and full of useful insights into what will surely be one of the big sellers of 2004.

“A feeling of high quality dominates when we take the camera into our hands. Nikon has not been tempted to make concessions to the quality of the housing. A very neatly finished body with a clear hand grip, a metal mount and an easy accessible control panel at the back of the camera. The camera lies perfectly in the hand. Users of the traditional Nikon F100 camera will recognise certain details of the housing. The beginning photographer will get spoiled by experiencing this body that until recently was only available for the semi-professional or dyed-in-the-wool amateur photographer!”

Website: LetsGoDigital - Nikon D70 First Look

If you didn’t know already, PMA 2004 is due to start on February 12th in Las Vegas, USA. This is the largest photographic trade show of the year, where all of the major and minor manufacturers show off their product lines for 2004. We’ve already seen some major announcements from Nikon and Canon this week, and you check back here regularly to catch up with all of the latest news as it happens. You could also spend a little time checking out the following sites, which have dedicated PMA 2004 preview pages.

Website: Luminous Landscape - PMA 2004

Website: LetsGoDigital - PMA 2004

Website: DPReview

It was only announced by Nikon yesterday, but CNET have already published their first take on the new 8-megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8700 digital camera.

“Competition between the 8-megapixel upstarts and the increasingly cheaper dSLRs will make digital-camera choices even tougher. Enthusiasts will have to decide if they want an SLR’s flexibility and feel or a higher resolution. The 8700 is slated to ship in late February for $999. We’ll keep you posted.”

Website: CNET - Nikon Coolpix 8700 First Take

HP Press Release 28/01/04

HP Photo Printing Systems Offer Professional-quality Black and White Photos that Resist Light Fading for 115 Years

Third-party research confirms industry leading fade resistance and image quality

PALO ALTO, Calif., Jan. 28, 2004
HP (NYSE:HPQ) today announced third-party test results confirming that HP’s recently introduced black and white capable photo printing systems offer customers professional-quality black and white photos that resist noticeable light fading for 115 years.(1)

Last year, the company introduced several HP Photosmart printers that produced professional-quality black and white photos. HP asked Wilhelm Imaging Research, Inc. the leading worldwide independent image permanence laboratory, to test a representative HP printer (the HP Photosmart 7960) for black and white fade resistance in normal indoor display conditions, when used with the HP 59 gray photo inkjet print cartridge and HP Premium Plus Photo paper.

Wilhelm Imaging Research, using their standard test methods (see http://www.wilhelm-research.com for details), determined that these black and white prints resist fading for up to 115 years when tested under glass.

“It’s important for customers to understand that any credible comparisons of photo permanence must be derived from identical test methodologies,” said Nils Miller, senior ink and media scientist, Imaging and Printing Group, HP. “Wilhelm Imaging Research employs the most stringent and widely used test methodology on fade resistance. In addition, Wilhelm tests and publishes results for all major brands, which enables customers to make fair and credible comparisons between brands.”

Ricoh claims that the 3.24-megapixel Caplio G4 has a shutter response time of just 0.14 seconds, exceeding the speed of a conventional 35mm camera and making it the world’s fastest in its class in terms of shutter response time. In addition, the Caplio G4 has a very fast start-up time of 1.9 seconds, which allows you to capture the desired shot with a minimum of delay. Does the sheer speed of the Ricoh Caplio G4 make it stand out from the crowd? Read on to find out.

Website: Ricoh Caplio G4 Review

I looked up from writing the Ricoh G4 review, prompted by lightning and thunder, and saw this outside. Snow in North London - whatever next?!

(the wonky colour balance is a combination of taking the shots in JPEG mode instead of RAW, leaving Photoshop to its own devices via Auto-Levels, and me being too lazy to fix it…).

HP Press Release 28/01/04

YOU Can Win 15 Minutes of Fame in Digital Photography Contest Sponsored by HP and Project Greenlight

People encouraged to share their stories through digital photos via launch of worldwide contest

London, Jan. 28 2004 - HP Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Carly Fiorina and Project Greenlight executive producers Ben Affleck and Chris Moore have announced a worldwide digital photography contest titled “YOU Take Five!” at the recent Sundance Film Festival.

The contest gives people from around the world the chance to become an on-set photographer for Miramax’s third Project Greenlight independent film (which might also see them on television in the accompanying series set to air on Bravo) as well as earn a walk-on role in the movie and have their photo essay, or “YOUstory,” featured in an HP (NYSE:HPQ) advertisement.

“Our partnership with Project Greenlight brings together the best of technology and entertainment to inspire and empower a new generation of film-makers and photographers,” said Fiorina. “Technology today is helping to democratise creativity. Through the “YOU Take Five!” contest we hope to uncover many new and exciting artists.”

The contest, sponsored by HP and in partnership with Project Greenlight, supports HP?s advertising campaign, “YOU +hp,” which was launched in late 2003 and is designed to inspire individuals to see the photo in everything. The campaign showcases HP’s complete digital photography line-up ? from cameras and printers to PCs, ink and paper.

Details and a product shot of the successor to the Canon EOS 1D digital SLR were leaked by Canon France early this morning. The snappily-named Canon EOS 1D MK2 will have a number of improvements over the older model, including:

- 8-megapixel CMOS sensor
- 1.3x crop factor (same as the 1D)
- 8.5 frames per second shooting rate
- Buffer can hold up to 40 full-size JPEGs or 20 RAW files
- ISO 50-3200
- New E-TTL flash system
- New Digic processing system
- 1/250 sec flash sync
- Maximum shutter speed of 1/8000th second
- RGB Histogram
- Firewire support
- Accepts Compact Flash type II and SD cards

Two new lenses were also accidentally announced at the same time.

Canon 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 L IS USM
Canon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM

Nikon UK Press Release 28/01/04

Nikon is pleased to announce the introduction of a new interchangeable-lens digital SLR camera that delivers Nikon’s patented digital and photographic performance, high resolution, sharp detail and accurate, vivid colour combined with a new level of advanced functions and automated operation: the Nikon D70.

Continuing the heritage of hallmark Nikon digital performance established with the launch of the D1 and successful introduction of the Nikon DX Format in1999, the D70 stands ready to expand the digital SLR camera market.  Designed for a broad range of customers, from novices to serious and experienced photo enthusiasts, the D70 allows photographers to easily adopt digital technology into their existing camera system, or to begin building a system that will bring ongoing enjoyment in the future.

The D70 employs the popular Nikon DX Format sensor and Nikon F lens mount design. This maintains seamless compatibility with all AF Nikkor lenses while allowing photographers to take full advantage of high quality DX Nikkor lenses, designed exclusively for Nikon’s D-series digital SLR cameras and optimised to achieve outstanding centre-to-edge-to-corner image quality. Developed concurrently as a perfect match for daily use with the D70 and compatible with all Nikon D-Series SLR models, the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED combines top performance and outstanding value.

The D70 is ready to use the instant it is turned on. The 5-area autofocus system is fast and precise, and includes an AF-assist illuminator to help maximize performance even in dark shooting conditions. It can shoot a rapid 3 frames per second for a continuous burst of 144 pictures (when using JPEG NORMAL - Large settings, and a SanDisk SDCHF256MB CompactFlash(tm) card) thanks to improved buffer memory handling, faster image processing, increased memory card access speed and greater system bus bandwidth.

Controls are located for easy access and smooth operation. Menus are presented clearly and in plain language on the large LCD monitor. All the camera’s systems have been optimised to deliver quick response. And, innovative new shooting options have been added to simplify the photographic process, whether controlled manually or via advanced automatic operation. Nikon’s seven new automated Digital Vari-Program selections accessed from the new Mode dial offer a combination of personal control and powerful automatic operation that helps achieve great results under even the most complex shooting conditions. 

Shutter speeds of 30 to 1/8,000 sec. ensure full creative control. The built-in auto pop-up flash can synchronize at shutter speeds of up to 1/500 sec. for great fill flash effects. Sensitivity can be set between ISO 200 to 1600 or controlled automatically across the same range of settings to maximize available light.

A new 6.1 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor featuring wider dynamic range and a higher signal to noise ratio produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images with high resolution and superbly sharp details suited for making large prints, or for cropping for creative detail.

The D70’s advanced System LSI processor is programmed for next generation performance to produce the finest in vivid colours and clarity, while maximizing the speed of file compression, memory buffer handling, simultaneous recording of JPEG and NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) files, and near-instant LCD image display.

Nikon’s acclaimed 3D Colour Matrix Meter with 1,005-pixel sensor assures accurate auto TTL white balance. Six different manual white balance modes, preset white balance, and white balance bracketing are also available for full creative control. Exposure compensation and flash exposure compensation combine with auto exposure bracketing to further aid in achieving the perfect shot.

The rechargeable high-energy EN-EL3 lithium-ion battery that earned high acclaim in the D100 delivers the power to shoot up to 2,000 images(1) on a single charge.  The D70 also comes with a battery holder, which lets you use disposable batteries as well, should the need or desire arise.

Diverse playback options, versatile custom settings, a USB interface for easy connectivity or direct printing to any PictBridge compatible printer, and a bevy of other features packed into the lightest and most compact Nikon digital SLR camera to date make the D70 the best performing camera in its class.

The estimated retail price of the D70 body is ?799.99
The estimated RRP for the D70 Kit is ?999.99
The camera will be available from April / March

Nikon UK Press Release 28/01/04

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm F3.5-4.5G IF-ED is the newest addition to a growing range of lenses designed specifically for Nikon digital SLR cameras.

With a practical wide-angle to telephoto zoom range of 18mm to 70mm, it offers the analogue 135 format equivalent to 27-105mm for general photography with Nikon D series digital SLRs.  It also enables anyone to start shooting digital SLR photography, irrespective of the current camera system they might own.

This is the first lens of its class to be offered in DX format, enabling a wide focal length range ratio. It effectively upgrades two existing AF Nikkors - it is smaller, lighter and more versatile than the existing AF 28-105 while offering a greater zoom range than the similarly sized AF 18-35.

The DX 18-70mm incorporates three ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements to minimize chromatic aberration and colour fringing, and aspherical elements to spread the light intensity evenly across the image circle with minimal distortion. The new lens continues the trend of G-type lens without aperture ring to offer precise 1/3 step aperture control via the camera body.

The AF-S DX 18-70mm lens incorporates Nikon’s exclusive SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for fast and quiet auto focus performance, whilst internal focus technology maintains lens size and balance.       

The lens is available either in kit form with the D70, or separately, for users of all Nikon D series cameras that share the DX Format sensor standard. 

The estimated RRP for the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm F3.5-4.5G IF-ED is ?299.99

Nikon UK Press Release 28/01/04

Nikon COOLPIX 8700—A new flagship for the Nikon COOLPIX series with 8.0 effective megapixels and an 8x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX 8700 Digital Camera.

With an impressive 8.0 effective megapixels and a powerful 8x zoom lens, the COOLPIX 8700 is positioned as the lineup?s newest flagship model. It delivers unmatched image quality—a hallmark of all Nikon products—and offers an advanced ergonomic design which greatly enhances operational ease and comfort.

The camera primarily targets users who already explore advanced forms of photographic expression, but are unsatisfied with current compact digital cameras. The COOLPIX 8700 meets their demands, especially those that require state-of-the-art image quality, higher zoom power and even greater portability and ease of use. Anyone in search of an extremely versatile, high-quality digital still camera will find the COOLPIX 8700 loaded with possibilities.

The COOLPIX 8700 carries an astonishing 8.0 effective megapixels for ultrahigh-definition photography. The clarity of your images is ensured by the professional-quality 8x Zoom-Nikkor lens. With its 8.9 - 71.2mm focal range (equivalent to 35 - 280mm in 35mm [135] camera format), the lens incorporates two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens elements to minimize chromatic aberration and give you clear and crisp image reproduction. In addition, the Optical Low-Pass Filter is optimized, which helps the new high-definition CCD image sensor make the most the incredible optical performance. The result is remarkably clear, natural images with unparalleled detail and contrast. The basic performance of the COOLPIX 8700 has also improved. This includes faster start-up time, faster data recording, shorter release time lag and a new AF-Assist illuminator for quick AF operation in low light.

The camera incorporates four exposure modes: Programmed Auto [P], Shutter-Priority Auto [S], Aperture-Priority Auto [A] and Manual [M] combine to give you the greatest degree of creative control possible. The COOLPIX 8700 also offers [AUTO] mode, in which the camera automatically selects appropriate exposures and shutter speeds, giving users high-quality point-and-shoot capability. And for striking images in practically any situation, the new COOLPIX features 12 versatile [SCENE] modes. Simply select the mode appropriate to your lighting conditions, and the camera is able to automatically adjust the focus, flash, contrast, sensitivity and white balance.

The COOLPIX 8700 features many advanced digital controls, such as BSS (Best Shot Selector), AE-BSS (Auto Exposure-Best Shot Selector) mode, Noise Reduction mode, Saturation Control and White Balance Bracketing. These are often crucial to obtaining optimum image quality. To help ensure that you don?t miss those unexpected or fleeting moments, the COOLPIX 8700 also has a 5 shot buffer mode. Versatility is further enhanced by handy, innovative features such as movie capability with audio and the Time-lapse movie mode, which is ideal for observational recording.

The newest member of the COOLPIX family comes equipped with a large, Vari-angle LCD monitor for increased visibility—even during bright daylight. Moreover, the improved high-resolution EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) offers greater contrast and a clearer images. And the compact, lightweight magnesium (Mg) alloy body has been designed for maximum durability and portability, with a secure, comfortable grip for stability during shooting.

New Framing guides on the LCD monitor offer an optional means of achieving ideal composition, and the new real-time histogram display lets you select the best exposure value while shooting. For those who desire more creative freedom when editing, the COOLPIX 8700 also offers RAW data image mode.

The COOLPIX 8700 comes loaded with all the essential accessories: a battery and charger, an A/V cable, a USB cable and the comprehensive Nikon View software package. The camera is also compatible with a host of optional accessories, including wideangle, telephoto and fisheye converters. It can also be fitted with a Lens Hood that uses lens filters. In addition, the COOLPIX 8700?s accessory shoe accommodates a number of Nikon?s external Speedlights.

This incredible array of features and quality accessories helps make the COOLPIX 8700 a truly special achievement in digital photography.

Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.

Nikon UK Press Release 28/01/04

Nikon is pleased to announce the Coolwalker MSV-01; a 30GB portable image storage device for the organisation of digital images.

The Nikon Coolwalker is a stylish and powerful storage device that offers an invaluable solution to the organisation of thousands of large resolution image files of all formats produced by today’s high-resolution digital cameras.

Featuring a large 2.5 inch TFT monitor and easy to use Menu the Coolwalker guides you through the process of efficient image management on the move, with practical PC-less options to share and print work later.

Compatible with all major image file formats (JPEG, TIFF) as well as NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) Raw files produced by Nikon Digital SLRs and certain Coolpix digital cameras and a variety of popular storage media formats. 

Transfer and organise your digital images
The Coolwalker has 30GB of storage capacity, translating to over 10.000 2MB* image files. *E.g. a typical 6Mp camera JPEG Fine. Images are transferred quickly via the Compact FlashTM 1 / II media slot to free up your camera media card to continue shooting in the field.  Optional adaptors are available for SD, MMC, SM and MS media formats as well. Images are automatically stored by date and folder creation is simple through the plain language Menu interface displayed on the large TFT monitor.

Browse and Save
The large 2.5 inch TFT monitor makes instant browsing of thumbnails in the field easy and conserves camera battery power for shooting pictures, rather than playing them back. Full image playback functions are offered such as Rotate, Zoom, Histogram and EXIF shooting data displayed.  The large screen and Nikon’s ergonomic four-way Multi selector style pad makes delete, move, copy, rename operations easy, supported by a straightforward 5 language Menu: En, De, Fr, Es, Jp.

Share images
Once your output is organised into an extensive mobile photo album, images are easy to share with family, friends or colleagues without the need of a PC. Just connect the Nikon Coolwalker to a TV or projector (PAL/NTSC), using the included remote control and present your slide show playback. 

Print direct (PictBridgeTM compatible)
It also enables a PC-less solution for printing your images. Just plug the Coolwalker in to any PictBridge(tm) compatible printer for PC-free printing.

Long Life Battery
The Coolwalker can operate for up to two hours, due to the powerful rechargeable Lithium Polymer Nikon EN-EL6 battery and charger/AC adaptor (included). 

Freedom to move around
The Nikon Coolwalker is a complete solution for anyone who enjoys digital photography but risks getting lost in the organisation and archiving of their work. Internal shock absorbers protect the hard disk in the field and in the office, providing a safe secure location for your precious digital image archive.

Hans Gaarlandt, Marketing Executive Prosumer Film and Digital products says: “Extensive research tells us that customers are rapidly embracing the benefits of digital photography, but losing their way when it comes to organising them for sharing later. Everyone wants to be taking pictures instead of filing and captioning them! But the most pleasure from your digital photography comes in sharing them quickly and easily, instead of browsing around folders on your PC screen.

The Nikon Coolwalker combines two major benefits for the digital camera user: it frees up your expensive CF card capacity, say, on holiday or a business trip, without the need for a PC.  Once you return home, you can view your digital photo album with family, friends or colleagues using the simplest viewing medium of them all, television”.

Estimated recommended retail price ?399.99

Nikon UK Press Release 28/01/04

Nikon are pleased to announce the new SB-600 speedlight - the latest member of the Creative Lighting System.

The perfect i-TTL flash partner for the new Nikon D70 digital SLR, the SB-600 offers increased opportunities for creative flash photography when using zoom lenses, off camera or in wireless multiple flash arrangements.

Featuring a powerful GN of 30 (35mm at ISO 100), full directional bounce flexibility and an easy to use LCD display, the SB-600 offers an effective solution for anyone who is seeking a lightweight, compact but powerful lighting solution for their digital photography.

I-TTL
The SB-600, similar to the SB-800, features Nikon’s new i-TTL Balanced Fill Flash technology, compatible with both the new Nikon D70 and the professional Nikon D2H. I-TTL uses two powerful monitor pre-flashes to enable accurate flash exposures, especially in bright lighting conditions.  For the first time, the Nikon D70’s 1005-pixel Matrix Metering sensor is used instead of a separate 5-segment Balanced Fill flash sensor found in previous Nikon SLR cameras.

Multiple Wireless Flash
Groups of SB-600 can also be included in the Nikon Creative Lighting System of completely automatic I-TTL Multiple wireless flash arrangements for a quick and easy studio lighting on the move. When set up as a Remote flash, groups are wirelessly controlled by using the exclusive new ‘Commander’ function of the Nikon D70. This function offers wireless control in either TTL, AA or Manual modes, set via the camera menu. The D70 pop up flash uses Nikon’s Advanced Data Communication method of coded pulses of flash output to transmit a variety of flash mode instructions to Remote flash. After exposure the SB-600’s beep confirms firing. 

Zoom and Output control steps
The SB-600 has a focal length zoom range from 24,28,35,50,75,80mm and 14mm with the fold down diffuser that covers the most popular lens focal lengths. Manual output control ranges from Full Power to 1/2; 1/4; 1/8; 1/16; 1/32 and 1/64 with 1/3 EV steps. 

The SB-600 also features wide AF area illumination for the latest 11-Area Multi-CAM2000 AF system, Modeling flash triggered from camera, Auto FP High Speed Sync, FV Lock and Flash Colour Communication. 

The SB-600 is a fully powerful and featured Speedlight that offers excellent handling balance when used with compact digital SLR’s such as the Nikon D70 and Nikon D100, especially when using short telephoto lenses.  The SB-600 also comes complete with AS-19 Speedlight stand, and soft case SS-600. Available from May.  Estimated RRP is ?229.99.

Nikon UK Press Release 28/01/04

Nikon has announced the new software application entitled “Picture Project”, which is based on information gathered during a worldwide study into customer expectations and requirements.

Everything in ten minutes
Picture Project has been designed so that users will feel totally at ease with the software in under ten minutes. It addresses the core need to organise, edit and use the many images that digital camera owners create, presenting them in a series of easy to access Collections that free the user from the need to understand a computer hard disk.

Picture Project includes a number of useful functions to enhance digital images that rely on the proprietary image-processing knowledge of Nikon specialists, presented in easy-to-understand tools such as “colour boost” and “auto enhance”.

Future Expandability
Picture Project can be enhanced by the purchase of third-party plug-in software, which add darkroom and optical filter effects as well as image enhancements that are only possible by digital manipulation.

The first filters to be available have been created by Nik Multimedia and follow on from their acclaimed set of digital filters for Adobe Photoshop. Nikon UK already offers a limited set of Nik Multimedia filters as a free-of-charge bonus to customers who register their products for the Fotoshare service.

Portfolio
With the announcement of Picture Project, Nikon has signalled an intention to expand its’ software portfolio, delivering a compelling mix of value-enhancing complimentary software with every Nikon digital product supported by a catalogue of higher-function products.

Olympus UK Press Release 28/01/04

To accompany the launch of the new C-5060 WZ digital camera, Olympus has announced a range of new accessories especially designed for the camera.  The C-5060 WZ offers a 27mm-110mm equivalent wide angle zoom, the widest currently available on the market today.  It is also one of the fastest digital cameras with a start-up time of just 3 seconds and a release time lag of 0.4 seconds.
     
For those sweeping landscape shots, the C-5060 WZ wide-angle conversion lens reduces the focal length by a factor of 0.7x (taking the zoom range to 19mm) without requiring the aperture to be changed. Furthermore a tele converter lens increases the focal length by a factor of 1.7x (taking the zoom range to 187mm) and a macro conversion lens enables you to get up close and capture finer details.

These C-5060 WZ conversion lenses are the first to feature a bayonet mount and can be quickly attached to the camera via a new CLA-7 conversion lens adapter.  Olympus also offers three different filters that may be screwed to the front of the C-5060 WZ?s lens. A UV filter and polarising filter both optimise the creative possibilities of the camera, and a protective filter prevents the camera?s lens from being smudged or scratched.

The C-5060 WZ is compatible with a power battery holder [B-HLD20] and rechargeable batteries [PS-BLM1] which provide considerably more power, permitting longer shooting sessions. The power battery holder features an additional shutter release button plus zoom lever with lock function to allow comfortable vertical-portrait framing. The rechargeable PS-BLM1 batteries deliver an impressive performance of 1500 mAh and take just 120 minutes to recharge.