Canon EOS R6 First Impressions

We've spent a little hands-on time with the brand new Canon EOS R6 mirrorless camera, so ahead of our full review, check out our first impressions now...

Datacolor Launch PhotograpHER Campaign & Giveaway

Datacolor have launched PhotograpHER, a campaign celebrating women in photography. Throughout May, Datacolor are inviting women in photography to share their stories to be in with a chance of winning a selection of top photography prizes, including a Canon EOS 60D camera, a Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM lens, a photograpHER tote bag, a Datacolor Spyder5CAPTURE PRO colour calibration bundle, and more. The competition runs from May 1st to May 31st. Entrants simply need to tell the story of who and/or what inspires their photography to be in with a chance of winning.

Nikon KeyMission 170 Review

The KeyMission 170 is Nikon's first attempt at an action camera, featuring 4K video recording and a 170-degree lens. Can it compete with the similarly priced GoPro Hero 5? Find out by reading our Nikon KeyMission 170 review.

Pulse Camera Remote

Alpine Labs have announced the upcoming launch of their "Pulse" camera release. Offering a pocket-sized solution to wireless control of DSLRs and CSCs, Pulse facilitates remote control from your mobile device using Bluetooth connectivity and a free mobile app. Unlike other remotes that utilise a camera’s trigger port, the USB connection allows Pulse to wirelessly control ISO, shutter speed, aperture, start / stop video, preview images on the screen of your device, and boasts an operational range of up to 100 ft. Expected to retail for $99, Pulse is currently available to preorder via the website below.

Canon EOS 80D Review

The new Canon EOS 80D DSLR camera refines the innovative Dual-Pixel CMOS AF system of its predecessor whilst upgrading the processor, sensor, auto-focusing and metering systems. Read our in-depth Canon EOS 80D review to find out if it can still compete in 2016...

Lomo Instant Review

Born out of a successful Kickstarter campaign, the Lomo Instant is the most advanced instant camera on the planet. Using the widely available Fujifilm Instax Mini film, the Lomo Instant offers advanced features like manual aperture control, a built-in flash, and a bulb mode for long exposures. Read our Lomo Instant review now...

Lytro Illum Review

The Lytro Illum is a new light field camera aimed at professional photographers. Boldly billed as "a new medium capable of capturing visual experiences in their purest form", is it worth adding the Lytro Illum to your kitbag? Read our Lytro Illum review to find out...

Kodak PixPro SP360 Review

The new Kodak PixPro SP360 is an actioncam with a difference - it can capture a complete 360-degree view of the world. Is the Kodak PixPro SP360 worth considering alongside, or even instead of, the mighty GoPro? Read our in-depth Kodak PixPro SP360 review to find out...

Canon IXUS 155 Review

The Canon IXUS 155 is a new stylish and affordable point-and-shoot compact camera. Stand-out features include a 20 megapixel sensor, 10x 24-240mm zoom lens, and a metal body, all for just £110. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 155 review now...

Fujifilm FinePix F900EXR Review

The FinePix F900EXR is the range-topping camera from Fujifilm, sporting a 20x lens with a versatile focal range of 25-500mm. The 16 megapixel F900 EXR also features fast phase-detection autofocusing, wireless image transfer, GPS support, full 1080p movies, a high-contrast 3 inch LCD screen and 8fps continuous shooting. Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix F900EXR review now...

iStopMotion to Support Canon DSLR Live View

Boinx Software is inviting all animation experts and hobbyists alike to beta test the brand new DSLR live view feature in iStopMotion for Mac. The beta version of iStopMotion supports live view with the Canon EOS 40D, 60D, 60Da, 450D, 550D and 700D. Boinx encourages all beta testers to use the built-in feedback assistant to report Canon DSLR models that do not work with the live-view function, as well as provide any additional feedback on areas for improvement. To become a beta tester, head to the website below.

Canon EOS 70D Review

The new Canon EOS 70D is not just another DSLR camera, thanks to its innovative Dual-Pixel CMOS AF system. This new technology aims to deliver much better Live View and Movie shooting than any other DSLR on the market. Read our in-depth Canon EOS 70D review to find out if it delivers on its promise...

Canon EOS 700D Review

The Canon EOS 700D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T5i in North America) is a new DSLR camera that boasts 18 megapixels, full 1080p high-definition videos with continuous auto-focusing, and a touch-screen interface. Other key features of the 700D / T5i include burst shooting at 5fps, a vari-angle 3-inch LCD screen with 1,040k dot resolution, ISO range of 100-25,600, 14-bit image processing and Canon's Digic 5 processor. Is the Canon EOS 700D / T5i the best mid-range digital SLR camera on the market? Read our expert review to find out...

Canon EOS 100D Review

The Canon EOS 100D (called the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 in North America) is the smallest and lightest DSLR in the World. The tiny new Canon 100D / SL1 boasts 18-megapixels, full 1080p high-definition videos with continuous auto-focusing, and a touch-screen interface. Other key features of the 100D / SL1 include burst shooting at 4fps, a 3-inch LCD screen with 1,040k dot resolution, ISO range of 100-25,600, 14-bit image processing and Canon's Digic 5 processor. Is the Canon EOS 100D / SL1 just too small for its own good? Read our expert review to find out...

Kuuvik Capture

Kuuvik Capture is a feature-laden Canon EOS tethering application for Mac OS X. In addition to offering a typical set of remote shooting tools, Kuuvik Capture provides real-time parametric sharpening coupled with an adjustable focus peaking overlay as well as various compositional aids such as preset and adjustable guidelines and grids. Other highlights include the capability to display a histogram based on raw image data and, with select cameras, a split-view display of the camera’s live view image, allowing simultaneous evaluation of focus and superior control over depth of field. Kuuvik Capture also supports exposure bracketing, which can be combined with an intervalometer function to shoot user-defined image sequences for HDR images or time-lapse videos. The application is licensed on a per camera basis, with prices starting at $79.99. A fully functional 30-day trial version is available from the website below.

New Snug-It Pro DSLR Skins from Delkin

Delkin's new Snug-It Pro DSLR camera skins are now available for the Canon EOS 6D and the Nikon D5200 digital SLR cameras. Claimed to "protect cameras from being damaged in any environment or situation," each Snug-It model is made out of a high-quality silicone material that makes it easy to put on and take off, as well as protect your DSLR against bumps, scratches, sand and dust. All models are molded around the camera's hot shoe attachment, buttons and lens in order to provide maximum coverage, while allowing for quick setting adjustments & lens changes. In addition, each Snug-It Pro skin contains openings for all of the camera's closed compartments, such as the memory card slot, HDMI port, and battery; allowing for easy access when needed. Snug-It Pro skins for the Canon 6D and Nikon D5200 are now available and can be purchased at the retail price of $34.99 via delkin.com or any Delkin authorised retailer.

Nikon D7100 Review

The D7100 is a new prosumer DSLR camera from Nikon, succeeding but not replacing the popular D7000 model. The weather-proof D7100 features a 24 megapixel DX image sensor, 51-point autofocus system, 6fps burst shooting and a high-resolution 3.2 inch LCD screen. Read our detailed Nikon D7100 review to find out if it's the right DSLR camera for you...

Sony Xperia Z Review

The Sony Xperia Z is a brand new smartphone that offers a lot of technologies from Sony's CyberShot camera range. The Xperia Z has a 13 megapixel sensor, 28mm fixed lens with fast f/2.2 aperture, 1080p video, sweep panoramas, a range of picture effects and 10fps burst shooting. Read our Sony Xperia Z review to find out if it really can replace a compact camera...

Canon UK Launches Spring Cashback Promotion

Starting today photographers living in the UK and Ireland can claim cashback on a range of Canon products including DSLRs, lenses and accessories, compacts, camcorders and printers. The amount of cashback ranges from £20/€25 on the PowerShot S110 camera (pictured) to £235/€300 on the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lenses. To take part in the offer and check the terms and conditions, visit the website below.

Fotodiox Announces Availability of Aputure USB V-Control

Fotodiox has released the Aputure V-Control for Canon DSLR cameras, a handheld USB host device offering comprehensive image and follow-focus control. “Perfect for dramatic rack focus shots, and for correcting focus when the camera is out of reach on a dolly or a crane, V-Control is the only device of its kind that enables photographers to easily switch between still and video modes, offering full hands-on remote control of the camera’s aperture, shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation,” the company claims. Currently supported camera models include the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, 5D Mark III, 5D Mark II, 7D, 60D, 600D/T3i/Kiss X5, 550D/T2i/Kiss X4, 500D/T1i/Kiss X3 and the 1100D/T3/Kiss X50. The V-Controller is priced at $179.95 and is available for order now at fotodioxpro.com and other online retailers including Amazon.

ArcSoft Portrait+ Review

Portrait+ from ArcSoft is a new software program for improving portrait photos. Capable of retouching an entire set of photos with batch-processing, Portrait+ includes up to 20 pre-set template styles, provides make-up and feature enhancing tools, and automatically detects up to 20 faces in each photo and pre-defines over 24 facial points for quick adjustment. Read our ArcSoft Portrait+ review to find out if it can enhance your portrait shots...

Canon EOS 6D Review

The Canon EOS 6D is a new full-frame DSLR with a much more affordable price-tag than the 5D Mark III and a few tricks up its sleeve that its bigger brother doesn't offer. At over £1000 / $1000 cheaper than the 5D Mark II, have Canon cut too many corners for the 6D to be a real contender? Read our in-depth Canon EOS 6D review to find out...

Tiffen and Action Cameras Launch Steadicam Film Contest

Action Cameras has teamed up with Tiffen in a competition to find the best film-making talent in action sports. There will be two rounds of judging – for Round One, a committee of experienced film makers will select five finalists from all the entries and they will receive a GoPro HERO3 Black Edition action camera and a Steadicam Smoothee, a prize worth £528. The finalists will then be judged against each other in Round Two to find the overall winner who will win a prize worth over £3000, comprising a digital SLR camera with kit lens,a Lowel Blender LED light, a Tiffen ND filter kit, a Domke 416 Roller Case and a copy of the Tiffen Dfx 3.0 video plug-in.

Canon Christmas Promotion

This Christmas, Canon UK is offering photographers an opportunity to complement their new DSLR with a range of accessories for half price. Those who buy an EOS 7D, EOS 60D or EOS 60Da will be able to get 50% off the battery grip, AC adapter, remote switch, additional batteries and remote control from a number of retailers. The promotion covers all purchases from 1 November 2012 until 27 January 2013.

Tamron AF 18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Review

The Tamron AF 18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD is a 15x ultra-zoom lens for Nikon and Canon APS-C DSLR shooters. Crucially offering built-in image stabilisation, the Tamron 18-270mm offers an effective focal range of 28-420mm, replacing at least three lenses in your camera bag. Read our Tamron AF 18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD review to find out if it's too much of a compromise or not...

Burrard-Lucas Travel Photography Contest

Burrard-Lucas Photography has launched a new travel photo competition. They are looking for striking, original and beautiful travel photographs that reveal the wonders of our planet. You are not limited to any subject matter in particular; travel photography can portray many things including an area’s people, cultures, customs, history or landscape. The grand prize is a Canon EOS 60D digital SLR camera (pictured). The winner also receives a 16x24” framed print of his/her winning photograph. The submission deadline is 31 December 2012.

Canon EOS 6D

Billed as the manufacturer’s “smallest and lightest full-frame digital SLR camera for serious photographers,” the Canon EOS 6D features a newly designed 20.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, a built-in wireless transmitter and an integrated GPS module. The camera also includes an 11-point AF array and 63-zone dual-layer iFCL metering sensor together with 1080p Full HD video capabilities. Other highlights include 14-bit analogue-to-digital conversion and a maximum continuous shooting speed of 4.5 frames per second. The Canon EOS 6D will be sold in a body-only configuration for $2,099/£1,799 and it will additionally be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $2,899.00/£2,519.99. Both configurations are expected to be available in December 2012. The separately sold BG-E13 battery grip retails for £249.99.

Canon EOS 650D Review

The Canon EOS 650D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T4i in North America) is a new DSLR camera that boasts 18-megapixels, full 1080p high-definition videos with continuous auto-focusing, and a touch-screen interface. Other key features of the 650D / T4i include burst shooting at 5fps, a vari-angle 3-inch LCD screen with 1,040k dot resolution, ISO range of 100-25,600, 14-bit image processing and Canon's Digic 5 processor. Is the Canon EOS 650D / T4i the best mid-range digital SLR camera on the market? Read our expert review to find out...

Dragonframe 3.0.4 for Mac

DZED Systems have announced Dragonframe 3.0.4 for Mac OS X, The program simplifies stop motion animation, motion graphics, and visual effects, with integrated USB control of Nikon and Canon DSLRs. The application supports lip-sync, automated lighting via DMX, 3D stereoscopic capture, and camera motion control. Previously called Dragon Stop Motion, Dragonframe 3.0.4 offers support for the latest DSLRs from Canon and Nikon, including the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, 1D X and 60Da as well as the Nikon D4, D800 and D800E. The update is free to Dragonframe 3 users.

Burrard-Lucas Wildlife Photography Contest

A Canon EOS 60D DSLR is up for grabs in Burrard-Lucas Photography’s latest photo competition. The contest theme is Wildlife and the deadline for entries is 30th September 2012.

Canon EOS 60D/60Da Firmware Version 1.1.1

Canon has released a firmware update for the Canon EOS 60D and EOS 60Da digital SLR cameras. Version 1.1.1 incorporates the following fixes:

1. Fixes a phenomenon where the serial number that is displayed in the shooting information does not match the camera’s actual serial number.
2. Corrects errors in the Greek, Italian, and Portuguese menu screens.

Website: Canon EOS 60D

Canon EOS 60Da

Canon today introduced the EOS 60Da digital SLR camera, a successor to the Canon EOS 20Da that is optimised for astrophotography. The Canon EOS 60Da features a 18-megapixel sensor (a major improvement versus the 20Da’s 8-megapixel imager) with a modifiedinfrared-blocking filter which helps achieve a hydrogen-alpha light sensitivity that is approximately three times higher than that of a normal Canon DSLR camera. This allows astrophotographers to capture crisp, clear images of reddish diffuse nebulae. The high-resolution flip-out vari-angle screen allows photographers to adjust the screen for easy viewing without straining even while the camera is mounted to a telescope via a third-party T-ring adapter. Moreover, the EOS 60Da’s Live View mode is equipped with a Silent Shooting feature that eliminates shutter-induced vibration for maximum camera stability when the camera is mounted to a telescope or super-telephoto EF lens. As a specialised product, the EOS 60Da is only available to order from select authorised dealers. The estimated retail price is $1,499 and it is expected to be available this month.

In the UK and Ireland, the Canon EOS 60Da will retail for £1,174.99/€1,399, starting June 2012.

Burrard-Lucas Photography Launches Nature Photography Contest

Burrard-Lucas Photography has launched a new nature photography competition. The contest is open to anyone who is a member of their Facebook community. The winner receives a new Canon EOS 60D digital SLR camera (pictured) and a $100 Amazon gift voucher. , while two runners-up will be awarded with $25 gift vouchers. Entry to this contest is free and you will retain copyright over any pictures you submit. The submission deadline is 31st December 2012.

Canon UK Announces Lens Cashback Promotion

Canon UK has launched a new lens cashback promotion with offers on 14 products across the EF and EF-S range when purchasing an EOS 60D, EOS 7D or EOS 5D Mark II. Lenses available in the promotion include the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS and 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM, as well as the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, 85mm f/1.8 USM, 50mm f/1.2L USM, 85mm f/1.2L II USM, 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM, 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, 17-40mm f/4L USM, 24-105mm f/4L IS USM, 70-200mm f/4L IS USM, 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM (pictured), 24-70mm f/2.8L USM and 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM. To be eligible for the cashback, you must purchase one of the selected DSLR cameras by 28th February 2012, and one of the selected lenses by 31st May 2012. The deadline for claims is 30th June 2012.

Cyberlink PhotoDirector Review

Cyberlink PhotoDirector is a brand new photo editing program that competes directly with Paint Shop Pro and Photoshop Elements. PhotoDirector offers an array of adjustment tools that can be applied non-destructively, native rendering of RAW files from Canon and Nikon cameras, and it lets users share their own presets and download an unlimited number of presets. Matt Grayson finds out if Cyberlink PhotoDirector can compete with the established players.

Burrard-Lucas Photography Launches New Wildlife Photo Contest

Burrard-Lucas Photography has launched a new “Wildlife” photo contest. They are looking for striking and original photographs taken anywhere in the world. The winner receives a Canon EOS 60D digital SLR camera and a $100 Amazon gift voucher, while two runners-up will be awarded with $25 gift vouchers. Entry to this contest is free and you will retain copyright over any pictures you submit. The submission deadline is 15th October.

Website: Burrard-Lucas Photography - Wildlife Photo Competition 2011

DSLR Controller for Android

Chainfire has released an app that allows you to remotely control your Canon EOS digital SLR camera via USB using a smartphone or tablet running Android 2.3.4 or later. Currently in Beta, the DSLR Controller app does not require you to hook the camera up to a computer - all you need is a compatible DSLR (the app has been tested with the Canon EOS 600D, 550D, 60D, 50D, 7D, 5D Mark II and 1D Mark IV models), a compatible smartphone* or tablet and the right USB cable. Features include the display of the Live View feed with histogram, grid overlay etc., LV autofocus by touch, and the ability to remotely change a large number of settings on your camera. As this is a Beta version, you should expect intermittent freeze-ups and error messages, the developers say. The DSLR Controller Beta app can be purchased and downloaded now from the Android Market.

*Note that apparently the only compatible smartphone is the Samsung Galaxy S2, with the 2.3.4 KG series firmware (or newer). The app should work with most Honeycomb-powered tablets though, Chainfire says.

Via Rob Galbraith

Canon Launches EOS Training Promotion in UK

Canon today announced the launch of a new EOS training promotion - ‘Your EOS Adventure Starts Here’. Canon will be giving away a free training DVD and up to £150 worth of training vouchers when photographers purchase a Canon EOS 1100D, EOS 600D or EOS 60D. Customers will be sent their welcome pack, which includes their choice of DVD and their training voucher which can be redeemed against an Experience Seminars training course. Photographers have until 31st October 2012 to use their training voucher and the value of the voucher is dependent on the EOS camera that is purchased: Note that this promotion is only available to customers in the United Kingdom.

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II

The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II is a compact and affordable telephoto lens. Canon’s four-stop Image Stabilizer (IS) counters image blur during low light and handheld shooting, and the inclusion of an Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) lens element and Canon’s Super Spectra Coatings also ensure beautifully crisp, high contrast and glare-free images. The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II will be available separately and also as part of a double lens kit, bundled alongside the recently-announced EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II with EOS 550D, EOS 600D and EOS 60D bodies. The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II will be available from July 2011, priced at £329.99/€369.99 RRP incl. VAT.

Switronix XP-DV-CH

The Switronix XP-DV-CH is a power adapter cable for Canon’s EOS 5D, 7D and 60D digital SLR cameras. Featuring a regulated 7.9V battery paddle and an inline female p-tap connector for 12V DC, housed in an enclosure, it also includes both red and green LED indication to display battery power status. The cable can be used in association with a Switronix accessory or used solo with a PRO-X series lithium-ion battery product.

Think Tank Photo to Release Redesigned Bags in June

In June, Think Tank Photo will release its redesigned Speed Demon V2.0, Speed Freak V2.0, and Speed Racer V2.0 as shoulder bags in its new Speed Convertible Series. Each Speed Convertible bag features a “disappearing” belt that tucks away into the sides of the bag. Other features include a flip-top lid that folds away from the body for rapid and convenient access to gear, a fully padded shoulder strap, built-in modular rails for attachment of Think Tank’s Modular, Skin or Multimedia components, and a soft kidney-shaped design. The smallest bag, Speed Demon V2.0, can carry a standard size DSLR with a standard zoom lens attached (hood reversed) and a wide angle zoom lens beside. The medium size Speed Freak V2.0 also carries a standard size DSLR with a zoom lens attached and is tall enough to accommodate a 70–200 f2.8 lens in the bag. The Speed Racer V2.0, the most spacious of the series, effortlessly fits in the main compartment a pro size DSLR with a standard zoom lens attached and a separate 70–200 f/2.8 telezoom.

Burrard-Lucas' Landscape Photography Contest

Burrard-Lucas Photography has launched a Landscape Photography Contest. This competition is open to participants worldwide, and there is no entry fee. Entrants may submit a maximum of three images to the contest The deadline for entries is 31 July 2011. The main prize is a Canon EOS 60D digital camera. Additionally, the winner will also receive a $100 gift voucher from Amazon, while two runners up will be presented with a $25 voucher each. For more information, visit the website below.

Website: Burrard-Lucas Photography - Landscape Photography Contest - 2011

Canon EOS 60D Firmware Update 1.0.9

Canon have released a new firmware update for the EOS 60D DSLR camera. Version 1.0.9 incorporates the following fixes and changes:

1. Changes the name of the feature called “Art Filters” to “Creative Filters” (which is used in markets other than Japan) in the Japanese version to make the terms consistent. (This change only applies to the Japanese version and does not apply to other language versions.)
2. Fixes a phenomenon where the camera may operate abnormally when it is set to Quick Mode AF during Live View shooting immediately after capturing an image with the C.Fn II-1 Long exposure noise reduction setting set to [2: On] and a shutter speed setting of 5 seconds or more.
3. Fixes a phenomenon where the camera may operate abnormally when after Live View shooting, the remote switch on the EOS Utility screen is pressed to immediately start movie-shooting. This phenomenon only occurs when the camera is connected to a compatible personal computer and the Remote Live View function of EOS Utility software is being used.

Website: Canon EOS 60D Firmware Update 1.0.9

Canon EOS 1100D Review

The Canon EOS 1100D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T3 in North America) is a new entry-level DSLR camera with some advanced features. Replacing the ageing 1000D / XS model, the new Canon 1100D / T3 offers a 12 megapixel sensor, 2.7 inch LCD screen, 720p movies, 63-zone metering, and 9-point auto-focus system. Available body only from £419 and in a range of kits from £459 / $599, read our Canon EOS 1100D / T3 review to find out if this budget DSLR is a bargain or one to avoid.

Canon EOS 600D Review

The Canon EOS 600D (called the Canon EOS Rebel T3i in North America) is a new DSLR camera that boasts a class-leading 18-megapixels and full 1080p high-definition videos. Other key features of the 600D / T3i include continuous shooting at 3.7fps, a vari-angle 3-inch LCD screen with 1,040k dot resolution, ISO range of 100-12800, 14-bit image processing and Canon's Digic 4 processor. Is the Canon EOS 600D / T3i the best mid-range digital SLR camera on the market? Read our expert review to find out...

Canon UK Issues Notice to Canon Users

Canon UK has issued a notice to Canon users regarding AF operation with certain camera-lens combinations. Specifically, those using the Canon EOS 7D, 40D, 50D or 60D camera with one of the lenses below may find that the peripheral AF points work as line sensors rather than cross sensors, and are therefore sensitive to vertical OR horizontal detail only, but not both at the same time. Normally, if you use any EF or EF-S lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, all AF points on these cameras should work as cross-type AF points, but this does not apply to the lenses listed below. These are quite old lenses - all of them were released between 1990 and 1995.

Burrard-Lucas' Pet Photography Competition

Burrard-Lucas Photography has launched a new pet photo contest. This competition is open to participants worldwide and the submission deadline is 11 May 2011.There is no entry fee, and each entrant can submit a maximum of three images. Entrants will retain copyright of their entries at all times and will always be credited alongside their pictures. Prizes to win include a Canon EOS 60D, a Lensbaby Composer portrait kit and one of two Lensbaby Muses.

Website: Pet Portraits Competition

Canon Speedlite 320EX & Speedlite 270EX II

Canon has launched the new Speedlite 320EX and Speedlite 270EX II flash units. The Speedlite 270EX II replaces the Speedlite 270EX at the entry level of Canon’s Speedlite range, whilst the Speedlite 320EX (pictured) is a compact and versatile flash for users of mid-level cameras who want to take more control over lighting. Both new models are compatible with Canon’s distance-linked E-TTL II system, and can be used on-camera or as slave units controlled by a separate master unit or the Integrated Speedlite Transmitter of the EOS 600D, EOS 60D and EOS 7D.The Speedlite 270EX II (£249.99/€299.00) has a guide number of 27 in metres at ISO 100/21°, and features a tilting flash head, while the Speedlite 320EX (£249.99/€299.00) has a guide number of 32 and features a zooming tilt-swivel head plus an integrated LED video light.

The Story Beyond The Still

Canon will debut a collaborative film, entitled “The Story Beyond The Still,” on 23th January, at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. “The Story Beyond the Still” began as a year-long contest, launched in January 2010 on Vimeo that allowed photographers and videographers to showcase their creativity in a new style of filmmaking that blended still and video images into a continuous cinematic piece begun by Canon Explorer of Light, Vincent Laforet.  The complete short film, including the final chapter starring The Breakfast Club star, Judd Nelson, will be viewed in its entirety at this private event during the 2011 Sundance Film Festival. It will then publicly première on 7th February on the Sundance Channel and Vimeo.

Olympus E-5 Review

The Olympus E-5 is a new semi-professional DSLR camera. Built to withstand the elements, the 12 megapixel E-5 has a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, 3-inch articulated LCD screen, top sensitivity of ISO 6400 and a new range of Art Filters. Read our expert Olympus E-5 review to find out if it can compete with the likes of the Canon EOS 60D, Nikon D7000 and Pentax K-5.

Canon EOS 60D Firmware Update Version 1.0.8

Canon have released a firmware update for the EOS 60D DSLR camera. Firmware version 1.0.8 incorporates the following fix:

  1. Fixes a phenomenon in which captured images may become overexposed when using the camera’s built-in flash or an external Speedlite in combination with the lenses listed below:*
    a) EF300/4 L IS USM
    b) EF28-135/3.5-5.6 IS USM
    c) EF75-300/4-5.6 IS USM
    d) EF100-400/4.5-5.6 L IS USM

Website: Download Canon EOS 60D Firmware Update Version 1.0.8

Anton/Bauer Ships Power Solutions for Canon HDSLRs

Anton/Bauer, the world’s premier provider of batteries, chargers, lighting and other mobile power systems for the professional broadcast, video and film industries, is now shipping the QR-DSLR (pictured) and DSLR-ADP-ELPZ power solutions for the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 7D and EOS 60D digital SLR cameras. Utilising the Logic Series batteries, the QR-DSLR has the ability to mount to most third party support rigs, such as those from Red-Rock Micro, Zacuto and Cinevate, and offers a counter balance to the rig.  The DSLR-ADP-ELPZ is based around the ElipZ® battery system and provides the user the ability to power the camera and ElightZ or EledZ on-camera lights.

DxO Optics Pro 6.5 for Mac and Windows

DxO Labs have just released DxO Optics Pro 6.5 for Mac and Windows. Featuring Single Shot HDR technology for optimised rendering of contrasty scenes, improved raw conversion, Lightroom 3 support and more, DxO Optics Pro 6.5 is available at a 30% holiday season discount until Christmas. The Standard edition is now $99, while the Elite edition costs $199 with the discount applied. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since 1 June 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.5.

Pentax K-5 Review

The K-5 is the second DSLR camera from Pentax for 2010, inheriting the existing K-7's proven control layout and incorporating a new 16.3 megapixel APS-C sensor. The Pentax K-5 offers an incredible ISO range of 80-51200 plus Full 1080p HD movies, 7fps burst shooting and a large high-resolution LCD screen. Read our Pentax K-5 review to discover if this mid-range DSLR can compete with the competition from Nikon and Canon.

Nikon D7000 Review

The D7000 is a new prosumer DSLR camera from Nikon, blending features from the cheaper D90 and the more expensive D300s and adding some new ideas of its own. Taking on the Canon EOS 60D, the D7000 is the first Nikon DSLR camera to offer continuous auto-focus during video recording, and the first to feature a 16 megapixel DX image sensor. Read our expert Nikon D7000 Review to find out if it's the right DSLR camera for you.

Apple Adds Raw Support for Ten New Cameras

Apple has just released an update to Snow Leopard, which adds system-level raw support for ten new digital cameras. The additional cameras supported by MacOS X 10.6.5 include the Canon EOS 60D, Powershot S95, Hasselblad H4D-40, Nikon D3100, Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5, Sony DSLR-A290, A560, A580, A33 (pictured) and A55.

Website: Apple

Holiday Gift Guide 2010

We've selected our top picks for this year's Holiday season, all the way from the cheapest digital compact up to the most expensive DSLR and everything in between. So no matter what your budget, make sure that you consult the Photography Blog Holiday Gift Guide for 2010 before splashing out your hard-earned cash.

DxO Optics Pro 6.5

DxO Labs have announced that DxO Optics Pro 6.5 will be released in early November. This newest version of the program will include DxO Labs’ Single Shot HDR technology that promises to bring out the most from a single raw image file. Additionally, DxO Optics Pro 6.5 further reduces low frequency colour and luminance noise at any ISO setting. Support for raw files produced by the Canon EOS 60D, Powershot S95 and G12, Pentax K-x and Sony A290 has also been added. The Standard edition of DxO Optics Pro 6.5 will be available for €149 / $169 / £135, whereas the Elite edition will cost €299 / $299 / £269. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since 1st June 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.5.

Canon EOS 60D Review

The EOS 60D is a new kind of DSLR camera from Canon, blending features from the cheaper 550D / / Rebel T2i and the more expensive 7D to exactly occupy the middle ground between the two. Aimed at the well-heeled amateur with a penchant for video, the 60D is the first EOS camera to offer an articulated LCD screen, making it easier to shoot both stills and importantly video. Read our expert Canon EOS 60D Review to find out if Canon's new prosumer DSLR is a worthy addition to the EOS range.

Canon 60D, Samsung NX10 & NX100 DxOMarked

DxOMark raw sensor data are are now available for the new Canon EOS 60D, Samsung NX10 and NX100 digital cameras. Unsurprisingly, the Canon 60D produced almost exactly the same results as the 7D and the 550D, with only the Low-Light ISO score differing slightly from both of these models (which received different scores on this metric themselves). The two Samsung produced lower scores on Low-Light ISO (and also in terms of dynamic range), but got higher scores on colour depth. Overall the two Samsung models finished just slightly behind the Canon EOS 60D.

Website: DxOMark

Canon EOS 60D Preview

First impressions of the new 18 megapixel Canon EOS 60D DSLR camera, including some full-size sample photos.

Redrock MicroEVF Electronic Viewfinder

Redrock Micro have announced the new microEVF electronic viewfinder for HDSLR cameras. The Redrock microEVF is the first electronic viewfinder designed from the ground up specifically for HDSLRs, The new Redrock microEVF is an external electronic viewfinder that connects to the camera body and can be placed anywhere for maximum comfort and stability, and can be part of a multi-monitor solution. The microEVF uses a custom made state-of-the-art backlit LED fitted in an attractive, ergonomic housing. Redrock MicroEVF is priced at $595, availability has not yet been announced.

Highlights of the Show - Photokina 2010

Photokina is over for another 2 years, so we’ve looked back at some of the most notable products we have seen at the world’s biggest photography show.

Canon - Photokina 2010

The Canon stand dominates Hall 3.2 at Photokina, with the imaging giant using an origami theme to showcase its latest products, Chief among them is the EOS 60D DSLR and the usual array of super-telephoto lenses, along with the recently announced G12, SX30IS and new lenses. Canon are also providing an interesting glimpse into the way they develop products with a display of EOS 7D concept drawings and early mockups, along with an exploded internal view of the G12. As you’d expect video is also featuring prominently, alongside new PIXMA printers and the ever-popular expert techniques sessions that always draw big crowds.

Canon EOS 60D Hands-On Photos

Want to see exactly what the new Canon EOS 60D DSLR digital camera looks like?

Then check out our hands-on photo gallery of the Canon EOS 60D DSLR.

Canon to Showcase 2010 Product Range at Photokina

Canon promises to showcase an exciting range of innovative imaging products at this year’s Photokina. To ensure all visitors at this year’s Photokina, which runs from 21st to 26th September, can try Canon’s new products with ease, a 3,155-square-metre showcase has been built and can be found in Halle 3.2. Some of the highlights include the Canon EOS 60D digital SLR camera, the Canon XF105 professional camcorder, the Canon IXUS 1000 HS compact ultrazoom camera, the EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM zoom lens (pictured) as well as Canon’s Pixma and imagePROGRAF printers.

Canon's Multipurpose Concept Camera Shoots 4K Video

At Canon EXPO 2010 New York, Canon has showcased a range of future technologies including a working prototype for a multipurpose digital camera that supports both video and still image capture with ultra-high definition 4K resolution. 4K is a collective name for several new standards of digital video capture, including Full Aperture 4K (4096x3112 pixels), Academy 4K (3656x2664 pixels), and Digital Cinema 4K (itself coming in different flavours such as 4096×1714 and 3996x2160 pixels). Given that Canon’s new prototype has a 2/3”, 8-megapixel CMOS sensor, we assume it shoots one version of Digital Cinema 4K, as both Full Aperture 4K and Academy 4K require more than 8 million pixels. The camera shoots video at 60 frames per second, and comes equipped with a large 4K LCD screen. Speaking of which, Canon is also exhibiting LCD panels with up to 8K resolution as part of their future technology showcase at the expo.

Canon EOS 60D

The 18-megapixel Canon EOS 60D is a replacement for the 50D featuring a vari-angle LCD screen and Full HD video capture with full manual control including a variety of user-selectable frame rates. The Canon 60D can shoot 18-megapixel stills at up to 5.3 frames per second for up to 58 frames in a row (in JPEG format). Boasting a 9-point, all cross-type autofocus AF system, the EOS 60D also features Canon’s iFCL metering system, first introduced with the EOS 7D, with a 63-zone Dual-Layer sensor. An Integrated Speedlite Transmitter provides in-camera control of multiple EX flash units for more creative lighting. The new 3-inch LCD monitor has a 3:2 aspect ratio, a 1,040k dot resolution and full articulation for overhead shots or ground-level photography. The Canon EOS 60D’s standard ISO range of 100-6400 is extendable to 12800. The EOS 60D is available from October priced at £1099.99 / €1309.99 / $1,099.00 for the body only. It will also be sold in four different kits ranging from £1199.99 to £1999.99 depending on the bundled lens.

Update: We have added a gallery of large product images provided by Canon. Click through / scroll down to view the photos.

Canon EOS Movie Plug-in E1 Version 1.1

Canon has announced an update for its EOS Movie Plug-in for Final Cut Pro. Scheduled to be available for download from mid-September, Canon’s EOS Movie Plug-in E1 for Final Cut Pro version 1.1 adds support for the Canon EOS 60D digital SLR camera. The plug-in will allow users to view metadata and EXIF data for movie files. It will also provide support for multi-core processing, allowing even faster conversations with the latest generation of Macs.

Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W1 Review

Tired of seeing the world in plain old two dimensions? Then Fujifilm have the answer - enter stage left the World's first 3D camera that doesn't require those dorky glasses, the Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W1. This remarkable device uses two lenses, two image sensors and a special LCD screen to create an utterly convincing stereoscopic 3D photograph. And the W1 also doubles up as a perfectly functional 2D point and shoot camera too. Mark Goldstein catches a glimpse of the future as he reviews the Fujifilm W1...

Nikon D3x Review

Forget the new car, holiday or house extension - a mere £5499.99 / €7728.00 / $7999.95 will buy you the shiny new Nikon D3x. This 24.6 megapixel camera is the highest-resolution DSLR on the market, bettering the Sony A900 and Canon EOS 5D Mark II. As well as it's headline-grabbing megapixel count, the D3x also boasts a 51-point auto-focus system, 920,000-dot 3-inch LCD screen, 50-6400 ISO range and 16-bit image processing. Gavin Stoker discovers if the Nikon D3x really is the best ever DSLR...