News

Monday, June 15, 2009

Online photo site snapizzi has announced that its newly upgraded IZ tag technology was successfully used to provide a personalised photo gallery for each participant at the 2009 Vision 5K held at Boston College on June 7. Participants in the Vision 5K, a unique annual event featuring world-class blind and visually impaired athletes competing with sighted runners, each wore a bib imprinted with a small, customised IZ tag (essentially a barcode).  With the IZ tag technology, photos uploaded to the snapizzi website were automatically associated with that participant and sequenced.  In this way, the photographs of multiple photographers shooting from numerous positions were automatically merged into an instant private photo gallery for each individual participant.

Website: Vision 5K
Website: Snapizzi

Online photo site snapizzi has announced that its newly upgraded IZ tag technology was successfully used to provide a personalised photo gallery for each participant at the 2009 Vision 5K held at Boston College on June 7. Participants in the Vision 5K, a unique annual event featuring world-class blind and…

Friday, June 12, 2009

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20 is one of the more affordable super-zoom cameras on the market, offering a 10x zoom lens, 10 megapixel sensor and 3 inch LCD screen. Attractively priced at $280 / £269, the compact Sony DSC-H20 features a full range of creative shooting modes for the advanced amateur, as well as the Intelligent Scene Recognition mode for beginners. There's also the bonus of 720p HD movie recording for video enthusiasts. Read our expert review to find out if the Sony H20 deserves a place on your super-zoom hit-list.

Magix has released Photo & Videoshow Premium Sounds 5, a collection of diverse sound files that can be used for audio dubbing. Audio dubbing is the process of adding sounds and music to videos and slideshows, which underlines the overall effect of the movie or show. With Photo & Videoshow Premium Sounds, Magix offers private users the possibility to add professional sounds to their projects, particularly to those that are difficult to record outdoors. To complement the Photo & Videoshow Premium Sounds collection, Magix offers Video & Photo Soundpool, a compilation of several instrumental soundtracks. Photo & Videoshow Premium Sounds costs £19.99 including VAT.

Magix has released Photo & Videoshow Premium Sounds 5, a collection of diverse sound files that can be used for audio dubbing. Audio dubbing is the process of adding sounds and music to videos and slideshows, which underlines the overall effect of the movie or show. With Photo & Videoshow…

Unified Color has announced an upgrade to its imaging software, HDR PhotoStudio Version 2.12 improves the product features and incorporates new operations of colour tone equalizer, colour tuning and white balance. Moreover, the new HDR merge works directly with TIFF and JPEG files. The price of the program is $149.99, and there is a 30-day free trial available from http://www.unifiedcolor.com/.

Unified Color has announced an upgrade to its imaging software, HDR PhotoStudio Version 2.12 improves the product features and incorporates new operations of colour tone equalizer, colour tuning and white balance. Moreover, the new HDR merge works directly with TIFF and JPEG files. The price of the program is $149.99…

Fujiflm Japan has unveiled a new ultra-compact digital camera, the Fujifilm FinePix Z300. This is a ten-megapixel model with CCD-shift image stabilisation, a sliding faceplate, 5x optical zoom and a 3” touch-sensitive rear screen. The Japanese press release is heavily touting the function that allows you to focus on the subject and take a photo simply by touching the screen, i.e. without having to press the shutter release button. The FinePix Z300 is manufactured in pink, violet, black and white colours, and will be released on 20th June in Japan. There are currently no plans to release the Z300 outside of Japan. Click through / read on for the key specs.

Website: Fujifilm FinePix Z300 Press Release (in Japanese)

Fujiflm Japan has unveiled a new ultra-compact digital camera, the Fujifilm FinePix Z300. This is a ten-megapixel model with CCD-shift image stabilisation, a sliding faceplate, 5x optical zoom and a 3” touch-sensitive rear screen. The Japanese press release is heavily touting the function that allows you to focus on the…

Reallusion, creators of 3D and facial animation software CrazyTalk, have announced the release of CrazyTalk 6. Highlights of the new version include a newly enhanced facial fitting technology which enables more natural head rotation animation and smooth facial performance for animals, comics, robots, anime, machines, humans etc; multi-actor animation; digital actors for moviemaking, an interactive camera and direct upload to YouTube and publishing to social networks, blogs and websites. CrazyTalk 6 Standard costs £34.99, while the pro version will set you back £109.99 including VAT.

Reallusion, creators of 3D and facial animation software CrazyTalk, have announced the release of CrazyTalk 6. Highlights of the new version include a newly enhanced facial fitting technology which enables more natural head rotation animation and smooth facial performance for animals, comics, robots, anime, machines, humans etc; multi-actor animation; digital…

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Photographers are increasingly being challenged by police, security guards and even members of the public. We take a look at what your rights really are, and what you can do in response...

Kata has relased a new range of protective photo reporter bags, including the PR-420 (pictured), PR-440 and PR-460 models. These models differ in size, but all of them offer customisable internal compartments with modular dividers, while an internal removable insert lets you define the rigidity of the bag, allowing you to either leave in for a more protective bag or to take out to make the bag more compact. The new photo reporter bags are available now from £129.95.

Kata has relased a new range of protective photo reporter bags, including the PR-420 (pictured), PR-440 and PR-460 models. These models differ in size, but all of them offer customisable internal compartments with modular dividers, while an internal removable insert lets you define the rigidity of the bag, allowing you…

‘99 Ways To Make Money From Your Photos’ is a new book released by Photopreneur. Packed with insider tips, practical strategies, and case studies, “99 Ways To Make Money From Your Photos” shares 99 creative ways to make images that generate cash. Each chapter reveals what to shoot, how to break in, and where to go to generate sales. Readers will learn how to sell stock, approach galleries, host their own exhibitions, earn money with Flickr, shoot for social networking sites, create and market photo products, form joint ventures, upsell their event photography etc. The 340-page softcover book has a list price of $34.95 and is available on Amazon and by visiting the Photopreneur website.

Website: Photopreneur

‘99 Ways To Make Money From Your Photos’ is a new book released by Photopreneur. Packed with insider tips, practical strategies, and case studies, “99 Ways To Make Money From Your Photos” shares 99 creative ways to make images that generate cash. Each chapter reveals what to shoot, how to…

Nikon has announced an upcoming firmware update for the Nikon Coolpix L100 superzoom model, which will make it possible to use rechargeable Ni-MH batteries to power the camera. The release of the firmware update will coincide with that of a new battery charger called the MH-73 and a set of rechargeable nickel-metal hydride batteries (EN-MH2-B4).

Review: Read our recent in-depth review of the Nikon Coolpix L100

Nikon has announced an upcoming firmware update for the Nikon Coolpix L100 superzoom model, which will make it possible to use rechargeable Ni-MH batteries to power the camera. The release of the firmware update will coincide with that of a new battery charger called the MH-73 and a set of…

Casio today announced the 12.1-megapixel Casio EXILIM Hi-Zoom EX-H10, billing it as “the world’s thinnest and lightest camera” among digital cameras with a 10X or greater optical zoom lens. Casio also quotes a battery life of 1,000 shots according to the CIPA standard. Other highlights include a 24-240mm equivalent zoom, a 3” rear screen and CCD-shift image stabilisation, all in a body that is just 24.3mm thin. Apart from capturing twelve-megapixel still photographs, the Casio EXILIM EX-H10 can also record HD movies at 1280x720 pixels. In the UK the Casio EX-H10 will retail at £299, availability to be announced. In the USA the Casio H10 will be available in mid July in black for $299.99.

Casio today announced the 12.1-megapixel Casio EXILIM Hi-Zoom EX-H10, billing it as “the world’s thinnest and lightest camera” among digital cameras with a 10X or greater optical zoom lens. Casio also quotes a battery life of 1,000 shots according to the CIPA standard. Other highlights include a 24-240mm equivalent zoom…

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 is a new DSLR-like camera that can shoot both still photos and high-definition video. Based on the Micro Four Thirds standard, the Panasonic GH1 takes all the good points of the original G1 camera and adds a plethora of advanced movie-making functionality into the mix. Available now in black, red and gold for $1499.95 / £1299.99, Mark Goldstein finds out if the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 is the best ever DSLR / video camera.

Aaduki Multimedia, an insurance company that offers a specialist service to photographers, has announced that it will be attending the DPI Show in London at the Islington Business Design Centre on June 18 and 19. Aaduki Multimedia has grown in the last 2 years to become one of the leading insurance providers of insurance for photographers, journalists and video makers, the company says. Aaduki will be offering special prices at the DPI Show.

Aaduki Multimedia, an insurance company that offers a specialist service to photographers, has announced that it will be attending the DPI Show in London at the Islington Business Design Centre on June 18 and 19. Aaduki Multimedia has grown in the last 2 years to become one of the leading…

The ninth Ricoh Photo Contest is now open for entries. The theme for the contest is “Laughter.” Since June 2004, Ricoh has been holding this contest for users who enjoy photography with Ricoh compact digital cameras. The application period lasts until 21st August, and the entries can be submitted via the contest website. A total of 50 photos will be chosen as winners from among the photos submitted, including a grand prize winner. Both professional and amateur works are accepted, as long as they have been taken with a Ricoh digital camera.

Website: Ricoh Contest Website

The ninth Ricoh Photo Contest is now open for entries. The theme for the contest is “Laughter.” Since June 2004, Ricoh has been holding this contest for users who enjoy photography with Ricoh compact digital cameras. The application period lasts until 21st August, and the entries can be submitted via…

Idruna has announced version 6 of Pocket Phojo, its Windows Mobile software for real time digital photography transmission. Currently in use by newspapers, news agencies, military, and police forces around the world, Pocket Phojo can have a photo transmitted from anywhere in the world to where it is needed within moments of it being taken. Versioon 6 adds support for the newly announced Eye-Fi Pro card and comes loaded with new features. Pocket Phojo is available now from http://www.idruna.com/pocketphojo.html

Idruna has announced version 6 of Pocket Phojo, its Windows Mobile software for real time digital photography transmission. Currently in use by newspapers, news agencies, military, and police forces around the world, Pocket Phojo can have a photo transmitted from anywhere in the world to where it is needed within…

Eye-Fi Inc. today unveiled the Eye-Fi Pro, a new wireless SDHC memory card for digital cameras that allows professionals and photo enthusiasts to automatically upload images straight from their camera to their computer and the Web. The Eye-Fi Pro also allows users to create an ad hoc connection through their computer or other mobile device to wirelessly upload media files while away from a wireless router. Like the Eye-Fi Explore Video, the new Eye-Fi Pro will automatically upload images and videos direct to more than 25 online photo and video sharing sites. It also lets users upload away from home at more than 10,000 Wayport and open hotspots, and will automatically geotag photos with information about where the images were taken. The Eye-Fi Pro is now available at Amazon.com and www.eye.fi for an MSRP of $149.

Eye-Fi Inc. today unveiled the Eye-Fi Pro, a new wireless SDHC memory card for digital cameras that allows professionals and photo enthusiasts to automatically upload images straight from their camera to their computer and the Web. The Eye-Fi Pro also allows users to create an ad hoc connection through their…

DxO Labs have released their new DxO Optics Pro version 5.3.4, which adds support to the Canon EOS 500D, Fujifilm S100FS, Nikon D5000, Pentax K200 and K-m, Sony A200 and A300 cameras. With these seven new models DxO Optics Pro 5.3.4 adds 155 new DxO Optics Correction Modules and now supports more than 1,400 camera body/lens combinations. The release of DxO Optics Pro 5.3.4 is accompanied by the publication of RAW sensor data and DxOMark Sensor rankings for the Canon EOS 500D and the Nikon D5000 on the dxomark.com website, along with reviews for both.

Website: DxOMark

DxO Labs have released their new DxO Optics Pro version 5.3.4, which adds support to the Canon EOS 500D, Fujifilm S100FS, Nikon D5000, Pentax K200 and K-m, Sony A200 and A300 cameras. With these seven new models DxO Optics Pro 5.3.4 adds 155 new DxO Optics Correction Modules and now…

Fantasea Line has released a new housing specifically designed for the Nikon Coolpix L19 and L20 digital cameras. The FL-19/20 Housing, depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, is fully functional providing photographers with access to all camera functions. Like the simultaneously announced FA-480, the FL-19/20 has a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen, removable flash diffuser and a 46mm threaded lens port. The FL-19/20 protects the Nikon Coolpix camera from water, sand, dust, and other damaging elements. It can be yours for $279.95.

Fantasea Line has released a new housing specifically designed for the Nikon Coolpix L19 and L20 digital cameras. The FL-19/20 Housing, depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, is fully functional providing photographers with access to all camera functions. Like the simultaneously announced FA-480, the FL-19/20 has a double O-ring seal…

Fantasea Line has released a new underwater housing specifically designed for the Canon PowerShot A480 digital camera. The FA-480, depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, is fully functional providing photographers with access to all camera functions. It has a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen, removable flash diffuser and a 46mm threaded lens port. The FA-480 protects the Canon Powershot A480 camera from water, sand, dust, and other damaging elements. It is available now for $279.95.

Review: Read our in-depth review of the Canon PowerShot A480

Fantasea Line has released a new underwater housing specifically designed for the Canon PowerShot A480 digital camera. The FA-480, depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, is fully functional providing photographers with access to all camera functions. It has a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen…

Photo Iconic has teamed up with Jacobs Digital Photo & Video to run a series of photo courses in the Pro Lounge at Jacobs’ New Oxford Street store, London. The first one is entitled “Shoot, Edit, Print”, and takes place on 10-11 July. This intensive hands-on two-day course guides you through the whole digital imaging process, from preparing to shoot to outputting images, for a fee of £325. Other courses include “The Perfect Travel Kit” (Saturday 18th July, 11am-1.30pm, £40) and “Shooting Travel Images That Sell” (Saturday 19th September, 11am-1.30pm, £40). To book your place on any of these courses, visit www.photoiconic.com.

Photo Iconic has teamed up with Jacobs Digital Photo & Video to run a series of photo courses in the Pro Lounge at Jacobs’ New Oxford Street store, London. The first one is entitled “Shoot, Edit, Print”, and takes place on 10-11 July. This intensive hands-on two-day course guides you…